Waiting on Wednesday (9)

Waiting on Wednesday is hosted by Breaking the Spine. It's a weekly meme to talk about what upcoming book we're most looking forward to reading

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Waiting on Wednesday

December 29, 2010

Exile

by Anne Osterlund

Release Date: April, 2011

Published by: Penguin Books

Exiled. From the weight of others' expectations, the responsibilities of being crown princess, and the pressure to marry, AURELIA is finally free to travel the kingdom and meet the people of Tyralt. If only ROBERT, her expedition guide, would stop pestering her about her safety and just kiss her. But then their journey erupts in a fiery conflagration, and with both of their lives and the fate of the kingdom at stake, she and Robert must determine whether they have the strength, and the will, to complete their mission. And face the darker side of exile. (From http://www.anneosterlund.com/)

Exile is the companion to Osterlund's first book Aurelia. I loved Aurelia and Robert's story so I can't wait to see what is in store for them. I also really enjoyed Osterlund's other book Academy 7. If you haven't read her books before I highly recommend checking them out! The stories and settings are great. You really become invested in the characters.

Top Ten Books I've Read in 2010

Top Ten Books I've Read in 2010

Okay, this is obviously a difficult task. I read so many great books this year. As I looked back over my goodreads list I noticed a few things.

*This spring/summer I read a TON of manga!! I've been working on developing that area of my middle school library and I guess I didn't realize just how many I was reading!

*I discovered Georgette Heyer's Regency England historical novels. Oh my stars I love these! If you enjoy Jane Austen you will likely love Heyer too! To read more about her check out the wikipedia entry here.

*I have a thing for paranormal and fantasy books. I knew this but didn't realize the extent until looking over the list!

*YA books rule my reading list. Again, not a surprise :)

For this blog I focused only on YA books. Honestly, it wouldn't be much different if I included "adult" books :) Also, the difference in my love for the #1 book and the #10 book (or books... Come on, by now you know they'll be more than ten. Math just isn't my strong point!) wouldn't even be statistically significant. If I could have I would have made them all number one!

***These are books I read in 2010. Not all were published in 2010***

1. White Cat by Holly Black

You may have noticed by now that I'm totally a Holly Black fan girl! This may be my favorite of all her books. I loved Cassel and his brothers as well as the whole crime family/Godfather feel!

2. Will Grayson, Will Grayson by John Green and David Levithan

John Green + David Levithan = AMAZING. I was dying from the first chapter. Such a great read.

3. The Demon's Covenant by Sarah Rees Brennan

The language, writing style, characters, viewpoint... I love it all. Sarah Rees Brennan is a fabulous story teller. This is my favorite of hers so far :)

4. Clockwork Angel by Cassandra Clare

I just recently gushed about how much I love, love, loved this book. I won't repeat everything but I will say that listening to City of Bones after reading this was really fun :)

5. The Vespertine by Saundra Mitchell

Another book I gushed about. You have to read this one come March! Beautiful style and language. I really felt invested in the book and what happened to the main character.

6. Heist Society by Ally Carter

So fun! I love Ally Carter's Gallagher Girls series as well but there is something about Kat and Hale... oh how I love Hale!

7. Raised by Wolves by Jennifer Lynn Barnes

I read this because I was going to the Smart Chicks Tour and wanted to read books by all the authors there. I really liked the werewolf take. I loved that the main character was different. I can't wait for book two!

8. Shiver/Linger by Maggie Steifvater

I read both of these in 2010. Another take on werewolves/shape shifters that I love. The audiobook for Linger is fabulous.

9. The Splendor Falls by Rosemary Clement-Moore

I ordered this for my LMC and randomly picked it up. SO GOOD! I couldn't put it down. The writing and story are engaging and I loved the setting.

10. Paranormalcy by Kiersten White/Firelight by Sophie Jordan/Nightshade by Andrea Cremer

Okay, I know that these don't really have much in common but I read them all at about the same time so they're going together. Paranormalcy was so fun. Love the main character and her voice. I loved Firelight's take on dragons (now Draki) and Jacinda kicks butt! Nightshade has a whole mythos and history built in to it that was AMAZING. I'm totally team Ren! :) Calla rocks too :)

Honorable Mentions:

Gone by Lisa McMann

Loved all three of these books. Great premisses.

After Ever After by Jordan Sonnenblick

Oh my stars... WATERWORKS! I sobbed but I loved every minute. I am always amazed at how Sonnenblick works humor and heartbreak together. Read Drums, Girls, and Dangerous Pie first.

A Posse of Princesses by Sherwood Smith

Perhaps one of the worst covers ever but I loved the story. Sherwood Smith writes great fantasy.

Megan Meade's Guide to the McGowan Boys by Kate Brian

Another book that I randomly picked up at the used bookstore. A great girly read :)

So many good books this year and it's not quite over! I can't wait to see what next year has in store!

In My Mailbox (7)

In My Mailbox

In my Mailbox is a weekly meme hosted by The Story Siren. The idea of In My Mailbox is to bring books to the attention of blog readers and to encourage interaction with other blogs.

Book titles link to goodreads. Author names link to their website/blog.

Entice by Carrie Jones

Tempestuous by Leslie Livingston

Heist Society by Ally Carter

The Warrior Heir, The Wizard Heir, The Dragon Heir by Cinda Williams Chima

Thirst No. 1 by Christopher Pike

Hotel on the Corner of Bitter and Sweet by Jamie Ford

Prom & Prejudice and The Lonely Hearts Club by Elizabeth Eulberg

Waiting on Wednesday (8)

Waiting on Wednesday is hosted by Breaking the Spine. It's a weekly meme to talk about what upcoming book we're most looking forward to reading

.

Waiting on Wednesday

December 22, 2010

City of Fallen Angels

by Cassandra Clare

Release Date: April 5, 2011

Published by: Margaret K. McElderry

City of Fallen Angels takes place two months after the events of City of Glass. In it, a mysterious someone’s killing the Shadowhunters who used to be in Valentine’s Circle and displaying their bodies around New York City in a manner designed to provoke hostility between Downworlders and Shadowhunters, leaving tensions running high in the city and disrupting Clary’s plan to lead as normal a life as she can — training to be a Shadowhunter, and pursuing her relationship with Jace. As Jace and Clary delve into the issue of the murdered Shadowhunters, they discover a mystery that has deeply personal consequences for them — consequences that may strengthen their relationship, or rip it apart forever. Meanwhile, internecine warfare among vampires is tearing the Downworld community apart, and only Simon — the Daylighter who everyone wants on their side — can decide the outcome; too bad he wants nothing to do with Downworld politics. Love, blood, betrayal and revenge: the stakes are higher than ever in City of Fallen Angels. (from FAQs @ www.cassandraclare.com)

I loved books 1-3 in this series and was sad that there weren't going to be any more. Huzzah for book four! I love that they're putting two characters on the covers of the next cycle of the series. Check out what Cassandra Clare has to say about it here. There is also a link to an excerpt! This is one book that I won't be putting off reading!

Top Ten Books I hope Santa Brings

Top Ten Books I hope Santa Brings

Top Ten Tuesday is a weekly meme hosted by The Broke and the Bookish

There are so many great books out this year; Santa's sleigh would never be able to leave the ground if I asked for all the books that I want! Add to that the fact that I've been working on reorganizing my bookshelves (Hey, I'm a librarian!) and noticing that I am missing some books in a series or have some hardcover and some paperback and you have a HUGE wish list. It was hard to pick but I think I have it finalized.

1. The Demon's Lexicon (Hardcover) by Sarah Rees Brennan

Sarah Rees Brennan is one of my all time favorite authors. I often find myself reading excerpts of her books aloud because the writing just begs to be heard! I have a signed copy of The Demon's Covenant but I don't have this book. I can't believe that! I must have loaned it out and never gotten it back. I HAVE to have it.

2. I'd Tell You I Love You but then I'd Have to Kill You (Hardcover) by Ally Carter

Okay, I own all the books in this series but this is the only one I have in paperback. I'm one of those people that REALLY wants the whole series to be the same so clearly I NEED this one in hardcover.

3. Morganville Vampires 3 - 9 by Rachel Caine

My Bookish Secret Santa bought me Glass Houses (book one) and I used a gift card from my work Secret Santa to buy The Dead Girls' Dance (book two.) I can tell that I'm going to enjoy this series so I'd really love to have the rest of them :)

4. Entice by Carrie Jones

My students and I LOVED Need and Captivate. We've been not-so-patiently waiting for this release. The covers are so pretty and I really enjoy the story. If Santa brought it my students would love him (and me!) forever :)

5. Tempestuous by Lesley Livingston

I read Wondrous Strange about the same time as Need so the two series are connected in my mind. Again, great story and beautiful covers! My students are anxious for this one as well!

6. Vixen by Jillian Larkin

Flappers + Chicago = AWESOME. The tagline totally sold me! "Jazz . . . Booze . . . Boys . . . It’s a dangerous combination." I so desperately want to read this one.

7. Crescendo by Becca Fitzpatrick

I just got this one from the library and am sure I'll enjoy it. I own Hush, Hush so obviously I need this one too!

8. Alanna: The First Adventure (New Cover) by Tamora Pierce

This book was one of the first I read when I got my job as a middle school librarian. Of course it hooked me and I've devoured everything Tamora Pierce since! When are we going to finally get the next Becca Cooper book (Mastiff)?!?!? I don't own this series but always mean to buy it. I'm glad I didn't. I love the new cover!

9. Revolution by Jennifer Donnelly

I've been hearing such fabulous things about this one that I just HAVE to check it out!

10. Harry Potter Set (Hardcover) by J.K. Rowling

Yes, I do own these. However, they aren't in the greatest shape. Some were bought used and you can tell a book plate was removed from the cover. I'm weird about my books so I want nice clean new copies!!!

What books are you asking Santa for? If you've got an in with him send him my way!

In My Mailbox (6)

In My Mailbox

In my Mailbox is a weekly meme hosted by The Story Siren. The idea of In My Mailbox is to bring books to the attention of blog readers and to encourage interaction with other blogs.

Book titles link to goodreads. Author names link to their website/blog.

Okay folks, here it is! My first ever vlog!!! Since this isn't an "official" In My mailbox week I figured it was the perfect time to try it out... fewer viewers to embarrass myself in front of. :) In truth, I thought it was really fun to make. I cut out some parts because it got kind of long and I wanted to keep this first one especially short. I learned that I make all kinds of weird expressions, fidget, and talk out of the side of my mouth... still, I enjoyed it! Also, I forgot to mention that in honor of IMM I wore my Harry Potter Quidditch shirt from The Wizarding World of Harry Potter :)

Morganville Vampire Series by Rachel Caine

Glass Houses

The Dead Girls' Dance

Midnight Alley

Feast of Fools

Lord of Misrule

Crescendo by Becca Fitzpatrick

Darkest Mercy by Melissa Marr

I almost forgot! Check out The Broke and The Bookish blog!

Debut Author Challenge

I have decided! I'm participating in the 2011 Debut Author Challenge! What is the Debut Author Challenge you ask? Good question. The Story Siren can answer it better than me! Click here to find out more information and/or join. Basically those participating challenge themselves to read a certain number of YA/MG books by 2011 debut authors. There are so many debut books I'm looking forward; it seemed silly not to participate.

At this point I'm not exactly sure how many I want to read. I need to spend some more time looking at what is being released. This is my first time doing something like this so I am going to start with one a month. I'll likely change that but it's a start. The following are the titles I'm most looking forward to!

Unearthly by Cynthia Hand

XVI by Julia Karr

Across the Universe by Beth Revis

Angelfire by Courtney Allison Moulton

Wither by Lauren DeStefano

Entwined by Heather Dixon

Between Shades of Gray by Ruta Sepetys

Bumped by Megan McCafferty

Starcrossed by Josephine Angelini

Divergent by Veronica Roth

Never Sit Down in a Hoop Skirt and Other Things I learned in Southern Belle by Crickett Rumley

Bad Taste in Boys by Carrie Harris

The Near Witch by Victoria Schwab

The Faerie Ring by Kiki Hamilton

I'm sure there are more that I want to read. I'll have to do some more research. If you're participating too what books are you most anticipating?

Flipped by Wendelin Van Draanen

Flipped
Author: Wendelin Van Draanen
Publisher: Scholastic

About the book (from jacket flap):
The first time she saw him, she flipped. The first time he saw her, he ran.

And from the second grade to the seventh, that's how it was. She says: "My Bryce. Still walking around with my first kiss." He says: "It's been six years of strategic avoidance and social discomfort."

But in the eighth grade, their views of the world -- and each other -- turn upside down. He says: "I'd spent so many years avoiding Juli Baker that I'd never really looked at her, but now I couldn't stop." And she says: "I felt a cold, hard knot tighten in my heart. I was through with Bryce Loski."

Is there hope for happiness in junior high? Have you flipped?

My thoughts:
I randomly picked this book off our library shelf when I first got my job about three years ago. I remember reading it and liking it but I was so overwhelmed with finding me feet in my first library job! I really didn't think about it again until I saw the movie trailer last spring. I decided to skim the book to get a refresher but ended up reading it cover to cover! I had forgotten how great it was.

Flipped has dual narrators, a style I'm finding I love more and more. Bryce Loski and Julianna (Juli) Baker meet when Bryce moves to town the summer before second grade. The story is told by Bryce and Juli when they are in eighth grade. I liked the back and forth between the two characters. I also loved how differently they interpreted the same situation. Working with middle schoolers I see this daily! The whole "this is what he/she said/did and I bet it means this" drama. I loved it! The book was laugh out loud funny at parts and had me nearly in tears at other parts. It's just such a sweet, heart warming tale. I simply loved it. It was one of those books that made me smile and sigh with contentment when I was done reading it.

This was also one of those rare times when I loved the movie as much as the book! I saw it with a friend and her seventh grade daughter (one of the coolest middle schoolers you'll ever meet!) They had read and enjoyed the book as well. The movie was a hit with all of us.

The book itself takes place around the time it was published (2001) but the movie is set circa 1960. I really liked this change. It gave the movie a bit of a Wonder Years feel and the story really fits that time. The soundtrack was fabulous and the cast well chosen. I loved the way that they would show a scene from Bryce's point of view and then Juli's. I couldn't wait for Christmas; I rushed out and bought the DVD. It's great for any age! You should really give it a try! Here's the trailer to give you a hint of what it's like.

Waiting on Wednesday (7)

Waiting on Wednesday is hosted by Breaking the Spine. It's a weekly meme to talk about what upcoming book we're most looking forward to reading

.

Waiting on Wednesday

December 15, 2010

The Last Little Blue Envelope

by Maureen Johnson

Release Date: April 26, 2011

Published by: HarperTeen

I loved the first book (13 Little Blue Envelopes.) It was the first book by Maureen Johnson that I read (aside from her part in Let it Snow, also awesome!) I've been dying to know what was in that last envelope! Maureen Johnson's writing style is fun and witty but not "fluffy." I really enjoy it :) I can't believe we have to wait until April! Maureen Johnson has been holding contests to give away ARCs of this book on Twitter. Follow her @maureenjohnson You won't regret it! She's hilarious :)

Top Ten Most Anticipated books in 2011

Top Ten Most Anticipated Books in 2011

Top Ten Tuesday is a weekly meme hosted by The Broke and the Bookish

You guys. YOU GUYS. You guys. This was SUCH a hard list. Even when I was being REALLY picky about my top books I still had about thirty. Then I thought I'd cheat and do 12... one for each month. Turns out March and April of next year are going to be AMAZING book release months! There are books that I'm excited for because they're next in a series (Forever by Maggie Stiefvater), books that are companions to books I've loved (Exile by Anne Osterlund) books that I want to read because I love the author (What Happened to Goodbye by Sarah Dessen), and books I can't wait to read because I've heard amazing things (Across the Universe by Beth Revis), all kinds of reasons! I think I could do a top ten on each. Even sneaking those four titles in doesn't really narrow it down. So, I decided to stick just to YA. That only eliminated TWO!! There are some books (like Mastiff by Tamora Pierce, Bitterblue by Kristen Cashore, Vanish by Sophie Jordan, and Supernaturally by Kiersten White) that I don't know that date of release. They had to go too (at least they kinda did ;) ) I still had 20 books. I kept recounting hoping somehow it would magically change. In the end I sucked it up and cut titles. In the end all but one are books in a series. I know I've said it before but I'll say it again... I really should wait until all book in a series are out before I start! I am SO not patient!!

1. Red Glove by Holly Black (April)

This is book two of The Curse Workers. I am SO looking forward to it. There was never any doubt that it is number one on my list. I love Holly Black's books. White Cat was one of my very favorites of 2010. April seems far, far away!

2. The Demon's Surrender by Sarah Rees Brennan (June)

Have a recently raved about how much I love Sarah Rees Brennan's writing? Because I do. Love it. A lot. I love that each book is from another characters perspective. I can't wait to get to know Sin more.

3. Clockwork Prince (Sept.) & City of Fallen Angels (April) by Cassandra Clare

I know, I kind of cheated by putting these two together. But come on, after that intro you had to kinda expect it, right? My last book review was a (quite long) gushy one about Clockwork Angel. I'm in book-love with Cassandra Clare's books!

4. Darkest Mercy by Melissa Marr (February)

I'm torn on this one. I really want to read it but I don't want the Wicked Lovely books to end! No one does faery like Melissa Marr. (Sidenote: Graveminder sounds amazing too!)

5. Uncommon Criminals by Ally Carter (June)

Adored Heist Society. LOVE Hale!!! Ally Carter is great at writing smart and witty dialogue that is oh-so-fun to read!

6. The Last Little Blue Envelope by Maureen Johnson (April)

I NEED TO KNOW WHAT WAS IN THAT ENVELOPE!!!!!!!!!!!

7. Demonglass by Rachel Hawkins (March)

I read Hex Hall shortly after it was released and have been anxiously awaiting Demonglass ever since! Rachel Hawkins seems to like to keep us in suspense! It has a great cover too :)

8. Wolfsbane by Andrea Cremer (July)

Nightshade totally lived up to the hype for me. Now I can't wait for Wolfsbane. I need more Ren!!! Of course, Calla and Shay and the rest of the pack are important too!

9. Abandon by Meg Cabot (April)

The only book that isn't part of an existing series/trilogy/whatever on my list! Of course it's book one of it's own set :) I love Meg Cabot and the Persephone myth is a favorite of mine. Plus.... the cover? Gorgeous!!

10. Chain Reaction by Simone Elkeles (May)

We finally get to find out what happens with the third Fuentes brother! This book looks to be just as fabulous as the first too.

Okay all, there you have it. My incredibly long top "10" books to anticipate! Ahhhh! Now I'm even MORE excited for them!!

Dear Santa

Dear Santa,

I know that I'm likely a bit older than the people you usually get letters like this from. However, if my middle school students are any indication, there have been a lot of naughty kids this year. I thought that there might be some extra room in your sleigh for gifts. If you wanted to maybe swing by my place and drop some off I wouldn't say no :) I've been extra good this year. Here's a list to give you some ideas. They are all bookish :)

Tessa's Clockwork Angel Pendant

Santa, is this not one of the most beautiful things you've ever seen? Those are REAL clockwork gears! You can order this on Etsy from Hembelmet's store. A portion of the proceeds goes to Reading is Fundamental. You'd be doing a good thing Santa! How cool is that?!?

Pride and Prejudice full text poster

Aren't the people at Postertext brilliant? Every poster has the full text of a book on it! Their website says, "With our book posters, you can literally hang your favorite book on the wall with the book's text, arranged to depict a memorable scene from the book." If they're out of the Pride and Prejudice poster I'd be okay with Peter Pan or The Adventures of Sherlock Holmes.

Bookshelves/Bookcases

I'm always in need of more places to put my books. The stacks all around my house are starting to get in the way! You can order those invisible shelves here. The cool frame looking ones are here (you can order internationally right Santa?) If that's too much hassle you could just send some elves down to build shelves like the ones in the third picture. That might be best. I have a TON of books and plan to buy more.

Pride and Prejudice Trivia Game

I would totally rock at this game Santa! And think about it... I could have all my family members play too! It would be fun for everyone! Who cares if they haven't read the book.

Kate Spade Book of the Month Club bag

Oh. My. Stars. I would really, really love this bag. I mean, it's THE GREAT GATSBY and a Kate Spade purse combined! I could use it to take things to work or class or just out and about. It's the perfect size to carry books in too! Learn more about it here. I would also take the Great Expectations one :)

Harry Potter Boxed Set

I know what your thinking Santa. Yes, I already own each Harry Potter book in hardcover. But Santa, they're getting kind of worn and I don't have the cool box. Scholastic has them on sale right now! Look!

Personal Library Kit

Santa, if you bought me this I could share my books with more people! You'd be bringing joy to so many. There are 20 pockets in each kit so I think about 25 kits would be a good start.

Postcards from Penguin

100 Book Jackets in One Box

I would totally send you a postcard Santa. I'd send them to all my bookish friends too. It'd be like giving 100 presents. They could be framed too. I love vintage book covers! Check them out here.

Banned Books Bracelet

You read banned books don't you Santa? You can get this bracelet, designed by Carolyn Forsman, at the ALA store. It features To Kill a Mockingbird, King & King, The Adventures of Captain Underpants, Annie on my Mind, In the Night Kitchen, Athletic Shorts, an Blubber.

Bookplates from Etsy

Finally Santa, if all else fails you could order me any of the totally awesome and oh so adorable bookplates on Etsy. This links to some of them. There are cute ones, elaborate ones, old-fashioned ones, funky ones... anything you can imagine! I bought some hedgehog ones earlier this year.

Well Santa, that's it for me. All I ask is that you take it in to consideration. I mean, remember that year when I sat on your lap and ALL I wanted was "Barbie Ice Cream Shop" and I DIDN'T GET IT?!? (We have the video if you need a reminder.) Any of these gifts would totally make up for breaking my six-year-old heart. No pressure though.

Yours in Bookish Delight,

Heidi

P.S. I'd still take that Barbie Ice Cream Shop. It made real ice cream!

What about you? What bookish things do you want this year? As a kid was there something you wanted desperately but didn't get?

Clockwork Angel

Clockwork Angel

Author: Cassandra Clare
Series: The Infernal Devices, Book One

Publisher: Margaret K. McElderry Books

About the book (from jacket flap):
Magic is dangerous--but love is more dangerous still.

When sixteen-year-old Tessa Gray crosses the ocean to find her brother, her destination is England, the time is the reign of Queen Victoria, and something terrifying is waiting for her in London's Downworld, where vampires, warlocks and other supernatural folk stalk the gaslit streets. Only the Shadowhunters, warriors dedicated to ridding the world of demons, keep order amidst the chaos.

Kidnapped by the mysterious Dark Sisters, members of a secret organization called The Pandemonium Club, Tessa soon learns that she herself is a Downworlder with a rare ability: the power to transform, at will, into another person. What's more, the Magister, the shadowy figure who runs the Club, will stop at nothing to claim Tessa's power for his own.

Friendless and hunted, Tessa takes refuge with the Shadowhunters of the London Institute, who swear to find her brother if she will use her power to help them. She soon finds herself fascinated by--and torn between--two best friends: James, whose fragile beauty hides a deadly secret, and blue-eyed Will, whose caustic wit and volatile moods keep everyone in his life at arm's length...everyone, that is, but Tessa. As their search draws them deep into the heart of an arcane plot that threatens to destroy the Shadowhunters, Tessa realizes that she may need to choose between saving her brother and helping her new friends save the world...and that love may be the most dangerous magic of all.

My thoughts:
This book has lead me to create a new rule for myself: Never read any of Cassandra Clare's books unless the ENTIRE SERIES has been released. I think I could have lived with the ending but the epilogue was just cruel! I have to wait until SEPTEMBER! I am so not good with the whole delayed gratification thing!

Why I picked it up... I really enjoyed Cassandra Clare's previous series, The Mortal Instruments (every single time I read it!) so I was really looking forward to Clockwork Angel. I've not read much steampunk and wasn't sure if I would like it. This book seemed like a good "starter" since it had the clockwork aspect and was set within a world I was familiar with and enjoyed. Also, the time period and location appealed to me.

I started out listening to the audiobook. It's wonderful. I felt that Jennifer Ehle's narration really helped transport me to the time and place of the story. Cassandra Clare does such a beautiful job of setting the scene. Hearing it read aloud let me focus on "seeing" it rather than just reading the words. Of course I am impatient and therefore didn't make it through all the CDs. I had to know what happened RIGHT NOW and didn't think that sitting in my garage with the car running was a very good idea. Instead I went inside, pulled the book of my "to be read" bookcase and curled up with a mug of hot cocoa. It was lovely.

The cover... I have really liked all of the covers for Cassandra Clare's books but this one is my favorite. I love the way the runes seem to give off light and the embossed clockwork angel. Add to that the shimmer and the muted tones that remind me of a rainy day (appropriate to the London setting) and you have a truly gorgeous cover. The hot boy doesn't hurt either ;)

The characters... I love Tessa. She's the kind of girl that I hope I would have been had I lived when she did (well, when she would have.. you know, if she was actually real.) I mean, aside from being courageous and kind and loyal and witty and all kinds of other good qualities, she's a bit of a book nerd :) I also appreciate that she is aware of what is expected of her as a woman in her time but doesn't let that totally define her. The way she handles the apparently self centered Will is pretty awesome too! She isn't perfect. Her loyalty may be a little too blind when it comes to those she loves. Still, I would rather let myself love too much than not enough (**cough** Will **cough**)

As far as the "Team Will"/"Team Jem" debate? As I discovered in this Top Ten Fictional Crushes post, I have a thing for the kind-of-arrogant, a-bit-bad boy. So yeah, totally crushing on Will. But, is he the best for Tessa? Not so sure about that. He clearly has issues that he needs to work through. If you've read The Mortal Instruments think Jace times a really big number. And Jem, while totally adorable and probably a really great boyfriend, has his own issues. The whole mysterious illness thing could be a problem in the long run.

Going in to reading CA I thought that the Tessa/Will/Jem dynamic was going to be more of a big love triangle thing (similar to that in TMI.) With all the Team Will/Team Jem debate I've seen I thought that they would be... well... more rivals than friends. I was pleased that this wasn't the case. Don't get me wrong, I totally loved it in TMI. I just loved the boy friendship in this book. It's nice to see boys being friends. You can tell that they truly care about one another and have that whole brotherly bond going on.

The other characters were great as well. I'd be interested to see more of the Charlotte/Henry dynamic. Without giving too much away I'll say that they made me kind of sad. Jessamine too. There were a number of characters that really surprised me throughout the story. When I thought I had someone figured out I'd learn something new about them. I love dynamic characters.

The plot... There is a lot going on in this book but I didn't find it overwhelming. I liked it :) The events enhanced one another and kept me wondering how they all fit together. Cassandra Clare keeps the plot moving. Every scene has a purpose, and it likely isn't what you at first think it is. The detail is such that you can really get in to the story but it doesn't feel bogged down.

Clockwork Angel was one of my favorite reads of the year. Cassandra Clare has written an addictive story that will keep you engaged throughout. A beautiful start to an exciting new look at the history of Shadowhunters and Downworlders. I don't know if I'll make it to September!

Check out Cassandra Clare's website here and The Infernal Devices here.

Follow her on Twitter @cassieclare

Waiting on Wednesday (6)

Waiting on Wednesday is hosted by Breaking the Spine. It's a weekly meme to talk about what upcoming book we're most looking forward to reading.

Waiting on Wednesday

December 8, 2010

Demonglass

by Rachel Hawkins

Release Date: Feb/March 2011

Published by: Hyperion Books

Sophie Mercer thought she was a witch.

That was the whole reason she was sent to Hex Hall, a reform school for delinquent Prodigium (aka witches, shapeshifters, and fairies). But that was before she discovered the family secret, and that her hot crush, Archer Cross, is an agent for The Eye, a group bent on wiping Prodigium off the face of the earth.

Turns out, Sophie’s a demon, one of only two in the world—the other being her father. What’s worse, she has powers that threaten the lives of everyone she loves. Which is precisely why Sophie decides she must go to London for the Removal, a dangerous procedure that will destroy her powers.

But once Sophie arrives she makes a shocking discovery. Her new friends? They’re demons too. Meaning someone is raising them in secret with creepy plans to use their powers, and probably not for good. Meanwhile, The Eye is set on hunting Sophie down, and they’re using Acher to do it. But it’s not like she has feelings for him anymore. Does she?

I am SO excited for this book! I bought the first one (Hex Hall) shortly after it was released because the cover appealed to me. Once I started it I couldn't put it down! I've been anxiously waiting for Demonglass ever since!

Top Ten Places to Read

Top Ten Places to Read

Top Ten Tuesday is an original feature/weekly meme created at The Broke and the Bookish.

I read whenever and wherever I can! Some of my favorite places past and present are listed below.

1. This chair:

Clearly it was made for reading!!

2. My car: Don't worry, I don't actually read while driving; nor do I sit in my car and read. I listen to audiobooks. I spend at least an hour a day driving so it's the perfect time to get some "reading" in.

3. Outside: When I was a little girl I used to love to lay under the catalpa trees in our yard and read. There's something about the sun, a breeze, a good book and no responsibilities... **sigh**

4. My bed: There are some days when I want nothing more than to curl up in bed with my down blanket and a book.

5. Wherever I happen to be at the moment: If I have a free minute I had better have a book to keep me company!

That's all I have this week! Where do you love to read?

Out for Blood

Out for Blood

by: Alxyandra Harvey

Third in The Drake Chronicles (Hearts at Stake, Blood Feud)

About the book:

Hunter Wild is the youngest in a long line of elite vampire hunters, a legacy that is both a blessing and a curse at the secret Helios-Ra Academy, where she excels at just about everything. Thanks to her friendship with Kieran Black, Hunter receives a special invitation to attend the coronation of Helena Drake, and for the first time, she sees the difference between vampires that must be hunted and vampires that can become friends—or even more. When students at the academy fall victim to a mysterious illness, Hunter suspects they are under attack from within. She will need someone she can trust to help her save the future of Helios-Ra . . . help that shockingly comes in the form of Quinn Drake, a drop-dead gorgeous vampire. Who said senior year would be easy?

My thoughts:

I wrote about how much I enjoyed the first two books in The Drake Chronicles back in August. This one did not disappoint. It alternates viewpoints between incredibly gorgeous and oh-so-crushworthy Drake brother Quinn and a female vampire hunter in training aptly named Hunter. The banter between these two is so fun to read. They are obviously attracted to one another but they both deny it at first. Quinn is a total player and can't admit to liking one girl. Hunter knows this. Even though he's dreamy she isn't about to fall for him based on that alone. Of course there's the whole vampire/vampire hunter thing as well!

What I really enjoy about these books is the pacing. They keep you engaged from the beginning. The characters are witty and fun yet believable in serious situations. I totally have crushes on all the Drake brothers... especially Quinn and Nicholas! They are too adorable (and by adorable I mean smoldering and sexy!)

I would defiantly recommend these books. I can't wait for book four: Bleeding Hearts featuring Quinn's twin brother Connor and Lucy's out of town cousin Christabel!

Check out Alyxandra Harvey's website here. Follow her on Twitter @AlyxandraH

In My Mailbox (5)

In My Mailbox

In my Mailbox is a weekly meme hosted by The Story Siren. The idea of In My Mailbox is to bring books to the attention of blog readers and to encourage interaction with other blogs.

Book titles link to goodreads. Author names link to their website/blog.

Okay, I tried to be all spiffy and make an In My Mailbox video this week but, as I am sure you can tell from the screenshots below, it was an epic failure!

The sound was really bad and you could hear the fan on my computer whirring away. I'll have to borrow a camera and tripod from school and try again next week.

Alright, on to the actual post! This was a crazy book week for me since the boxes of books I shipped from the ALAN workshop arrived. When all unpacked and laid out it looked something like this:

Clearly I'm not going through all these books at once! I'll save some for "slow" book weeks ;) I did want to highlight a few though. Plus, I received a couple other books I want to mention.

ALAN:

Please Ignore Vera Dietz by A.S. King: I've heard so many good things about this one! She was a great speaker and I got to meet her at the author reception. I enjoyed her first book The Dust of 100 Dogs and have really been looking forward to this one. I got some bookmarks to go with it as well. I'll be adding them to giveaways I send out :)

Dash & Lily's Book of Dares by Rachel Cohn & David Levithan: I was so excited to get this book in my book box :) I love the other books they've co-authored and would have bought it already if I hadn't put it on my Christmas list :) Can't wait to read it!

Matched by Ally Condie: If you follow book blogs there is no way you haven't heard about this book. It's been EVERYWHERE! I've only had the chance to read the first couple of chapters but I'm hooked! The finished copy is on my Christmas list as well.

Dark Goddess by Sarwat Chadda: I read Devil's Kiss awhile back. I loaned it to a few of my students and they loved it. It wasn't a favorite but I enjoyed it too. I'm interested in seeing what happens next.

Swap:

I swapped books with the lovely Leanna from Daisy Chain Book Reviews. Her site is great. You should check it out for reviews, author interviews, and other fun stuff :) She sent me the third book in the The Drake Chronicles by Alyxandra Harvey plus a fun bookmark :) Out for Blood focuses on Drake brother Quinn and a female vampire hunter aptly named Hunter. I already read it... I just couldn't wait! Thanks again Leanna!

Bought:

Anna and the French Kiss by Stephanie Perkins is the only book I've bought recently. With all the great reviews I've been reading I couldn't resist it. Now I just need to find the time to read it! I love the cover and can't wait to dive in.

Well, that's it for me this week. What about you? What'd you get?