Review: Swell by Julie Rieman Duck

Swell by Julie Rieman Duck

Published August 31st, 2012

Source: Author

When Christian Rusch plucks Beck Ionesco from the freshman ranks for himself, she’s tempted with parties, popularity, and love. But as the free-flowing booze that soaks his world seeps into her own, Beck begins using liquid courage as a way to ignore Christian’s dark moods… and cover her anxiety about his flirtatious friend Hillman.However, when Christian breaks up with Beck, and Hillman makes a dangerous move, no amount of alcohol can stop the pain or keep her out of trouble. And just when it seems like she’s lost everything, Beck is partnered with Jesse Leary for an art project. After spending time with him, Beck realizes it’s more than a study date… and Christian’s not happy about it. Then again, Beck’s not sure she’s happy with him, either.But only after plowing through a bottle of wine, a wild fight, and one guardrail that becomes Christian’s last call, does Beck admit to her problem and ask for help from the one whose life secretly parallels her own.

Swell is an emotional rollercoaster as we ride with Rebecca on her downworld spiral to alcoholism. We watch as she alienates those who cares about her just to get into the 'in crowd' and Christians arms. We watch as she uses liquid courage to become someone she's not. And we watch as everything starts to fall apart.

In the first half or so of the book the beginning of each chapter has a little bit of foreshadowing of what's going to happen, that's going to be one turning point in her life. Something absolutely horrific. As we read it's pretty clear where things are going, but it's just a teaser because we don't know how far it will go and who may come in to save the day, if anyone. Unfortunately even when horrible things happen it's not enough to break the cycle of drinking. And Rebecca still does incredibly awful things to get her hands on alcohol, any kind she can find.

Once school starts she meets Jesse, who is her art partner. Jesse has this light and funny personality and she finds him to be a person who can help take her mind off of everything else. And in the end it's Jesse who helps her find the pieces of her life that she lost.

A lot of horrible things happen in this book and some of you may think that it's not real, teens don't go THAT far. But they do. And this book is a real look at it. Yes, there's drinking and there's sex, but that's what kids do. And this is not a look at it with all wonderful things. No, this shows us the awful things that can happen without us even realizing it. It's not like people become alcoholics on purpose. They start out partying and drinking on weekends and the next thing you know they are hiding little bottles everywhere. Liquid courage for the smallest things like dinner with the family.

The thing I like is that we see the repercussions of Rebecca's actions. We watch as she finds her way and regains her footing and it shows us that there is hope and there is help.

I suggest this for mature readers because of the content, but honestly I think about any teenager in high school has seen things like this and it won't be anything new to them (the drinking, language and sex).

Disclosure: I received a copy of this book for review purposes. All opinions expressed are my own and I was not paid or influenced in any way.

Review: Burn for Burn by Jenny Han & Siobhan Vivian

Burn for Burn by Jenny Han and Siobhan Vivian

Hardcover, 368 pages

Expected publication: Sept. 18th, 2012 by Simon & Schuster

Source: Borrowed 

BIG GIRLS DON'T CRY...
THEY GET EVEN.

Lillia has never had any problems dealing with boys who like her. Not until this summer, when one went too far. No way will she let the same thing happen to her little sister.

Kat is tired of the rumours, the insults, the cruel jokes. It all goes back to one person– her ex-best friend– and she's ready to make her pay.

Four years ago, Mary left Jar Island because of a boy. But she's not the same girl anymore. And she's ready to prove it to him.

Three very different girls who want the same thing: sweet, sweet revenge. And they won't stop until they each had a taste.

Burn for Burn is mostly about three girls who want revenge because they've been wronged in some way.  But while it is those three narrating in alternate chapters, we also get to see so much of the others in their lives.  The 'friends' they feel have wronged them and those that are close to them.  And because of this we really get a well rounded look at them all.  And every single one of them we can look at and say how much we dislike them.  But at other times, we see the vulnerable side of them, or the good side, and we see that maybe they aren't so bad...  But that's what makes this so real, these characters are so relatable.  Because we are able to connect with them in some way.  I don't think any of them are people I would want to be friends with, but yet I don't really dislike them either...

The book has a bit of a slow start, the whole revenge thing doesn't even come into play until later.  But it was okay because I was still interested in things.  We got a good idea of everything that was going on and got to know all the characters before the crap went down.

While this was a book that really held my attention and I enjoyed every minute of it, there are a few bones I need to pick.  First of all, that abrupt ending was not cool.  I think we needed another chapter or two for more answers.  Now it's possible my ARC was missing pages, so feel free to let me know if that's the case.  But there's a few things I still needed to know.  And there's something that happens to Lillia in the beginning and I don't feel like it was explored enough.  We finally found out what happened, but it would have been nice if she'd at least got it off her chest or something.  But no, it was just dropped and not brought up again. I also would have liked to know where the romances went as well.  

Overall, I really enjoyed the book and I think it's important that teens read books like this.  So they can see that the things they say and do really affect people.  And that while bullying hurts, revenge can easily go too far.

This qualifies for the YA Contemporary Challenge 2012.

Review & Giveaway: Speechless by Hannah Harrington

Speechless by Hannah Harrington

paperback, 288 pages

Published Aug. 28th, 2012 by HarlequinTeen

Source: Publisher

Everyone knows that Chelsea Knot can't keep a secret

Until now. Because the last secret she shared turned her into a social outcast—and nearly got someone killed.

Now Chelsea has taken a vow of silence—to learn to keep her mouth shut, and to stop hurting anyone else. And if she thinks keeping secrets is hard, not speaking up when she's ignored, ridiculed and even attacked is worse.

But there's strength in silence, and in the new friends who are, shockingly, coming her way—people she never noticed before; a boy she might even fall for. If only her new friends can forgive what she's done. If only she can forgive herself.

This book left me feeling... speechless.

It was powerful and beautiful and was full of amazing.  From the characters, to the message, to the romance.  It was all amazing.

We first see the original Chelsea, the Chelsea she has become being one of the in crowd.  One of the mean girls.  But we only see her in a couple chapters because then something horrible happens and Chelsea takes a vow of silence and instead of being on the side of doling out the mean, she's suddenly the one they are being mean too.  She suddenly sees things very differently and realizes how wrong it all is.  And I say it happens suddenly, and it does, but she has so much more growth that happens through the novel as well.  It's not like she goes from evil to perfect overnight, it's just one action has suddenly opened her eyes and she starts on a new journey.

People everywhere often don't think about how much impact our words have.  We want to gossip and spread news about things and so often we don't even consider that the things we speak of may be hurting someone else.  Or may lead to someone getting hurt.  Our words matter.  We need to choose them wisely.  In taking a vow silence Chelsea can be sure to never utter a word against another human again.  She communicates by writing, but since it takes more time and thought the wrong things are less likely to spill out.  I thought this was a fantastic way for her to pay her penance and to start on her new journey.  Not only does it impact herself, but I really feel it shows others how sorry she is and I think because of this it makes it easier for others to open up to her.  And suddenly she has a new group of friends.  A very unlikely group for her to get involved with.  But these friends, these friends are actual true friends.  And Chelsea can now see what it's like to have true friendship.

Because I think you should go in to the book not knowing exactly who is the romantic interest and who her new friends are, I'm not going to get into it much.  But I can tell you that every character in the book has a strong personality.  They each are very much their own person and for this reason there was never any confusion in keeping characters straight.  

The romance was epically sweet.  Nothing fast, but a friendship first and gradual feelings that we see slowly.  We watch the friendship develop and grow into more and the whole time we're oohing and ahhing because it's so perfect.  So adorable.

I absolutely loved this book.  It evoked a lot of emotion, from anger to tears to laughter, and that is something I always like in a book.  Having lighter moments makes it not bleak and dark and this book really wasn't bleak at all.  It was full of hope, love and friendship.  It was full of intense moments with fantastic characters.  I very highly recommend you read this book.

Disclosure: I received this book for review purposes.  All opinions expressed are my own and I was not paid or influenced in any way.

About Love is Louder:

Love is Louder was started by The Jed Foundation, MTV and Brittany Snow to support anyone feeling mistreated, misunderstood or alone. It’s hundreds of thousands of people just like you who have turned this idea into a movement. A movement of all types of people who have come together to raise the volume around the message that love and support are louder than any internal or external voice that brings us dowIndividuals, communities, schools and organizations have embraced Love is Louder as a way to address with issues like bullying, negative self-image, discrimination, loneliness and depression. Even as we work to stop negative words and actions that hurt us, we can strengthen our abilities to cope with hard times, focus on the positive, support the people around us and reach out for help if we need it.
Find out more: http://www.loveislouder.com

Find the Author:
www.hannahharrington.com
www.speechless.com/loveislouder

 

Giveaway: 

Thanks to HarlequinTeen and Big Honcho Media I have a branded phone gelskin and a copy of Speechless for one lucky winner.

This is open to US only.

You must be 13 or older to enter.

Ends 9/20/12

Fill out the rafflecopter to enter.

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Review: Pushing the Limits by Katie McGarry

Pushing the Limits by Katie McGarry

Hardcover, 384 pages.

Published: July 31st, 2012 by HarlequinTEEN

Source: Netgalley/HarlequinTEEN

"I won't tell anyone, Echo. I promise." Noah tucked a curl behind my ear. It had been so long since someone touched me like he did. Why did it have to be Noah Hutchins? His dark brown eyes shifted to my covered arms. "You didn't do that-did you? It was done to you?" No one ever asked that question. They stared. They whispered. They laughed. But they never asked.

So wrong for each other...and yet so right.

No one knows what happened the night Echo Emerson went from popular girl with jock boyfriend to gossiped-about outsider with "freaky" scars on her arms. Even Echo can't remember the whole truth of that horrible night. All she knows is that she wants everything to go back to normal. But when Noah Hutchins, the smoking-hot, girl-using loner in the black leather jacket, explodes into her life with his tough attitude and surprising understanding, Echo's world shifts in ways she could never have imagined. They should have nothing in common. And with the secrets they both keep, being together is pretty much impossible.Yet the crazy attraction between them refuses to go away. And Echo has to ask herself just how far they can push the limits and what she'll risk for the one guy who might teach her how to love again.

"An edgy romance that pulls you in and never lets go. I was hooked!"-Gena Showalter,  New York Times bestselling author of the Intertwined series.

This is one of those reviews that it's hard to know what to add to what's already out there.  Have you looked on goodreads?  The reviews for this one are overwhelmingly good.  There are few (if any) that are three stars or less.  And this book deserves it.  It really is a fabulous read.

Echo and Noah were both characters I loved.  And one thing that I found so incredible was their growth.  Both of them grew so much through the book.  We start out seeing a weak and meek Echo who can't seem to stand up to her overbearing father.  As the book goes on she slowly starts to find her way through the jumbled mess that is her life.  She's got some real strength in her, she just had to find it.  And Noah starts out being a rude bully but almost immediately we see that's not really him.  He's built up a wall around himself and keeps everyone at arms length.  But as they each keep getting tossed into situations together they realize they have more in common then they thought and maybe there's more to the other than they ever dreamed.

The romance was sweet and while I'm not a big fan of the mean guy turned nice, the mean guy stuff really didn't last long enough for me to have a chance to get annoyed.  So fortunately it didn't become an issue.   I don't really know what to say without spoilers, but this was one of those romances that you just really want things to work out between the two.  For the differences and obstacles to be pushed aside.

This isn't all just romance.  It's about family, and friendship and finding yourself and your strength.  Echo has lost a lot.  Her brother died, her mother is gone,  and she's scarred for life.  Literally.  Most her friends have ditched her and she's very alone.  All she has is her overbearing father.  Watching the family dynamic work out was great.  People have faults and people make mistakes.  Finding forgiveness and a way to move on isn't easy, but we need to find a way.

Noah's parents died in a fire and he's living in a foster home.  His two little brothers are in another foster home and all he wants is to be with them.  This was the aspect of the story that actually made me cry.  I understood how he wanted his brothers and how he was in an impossible situation.  Watching him figure it out and struggle with his emotions and pain and find his way was incredible.  Any guy that loves his brothers that much is someone you really can't help but love.

I really enjoyed this story with layers of pain and recovery as each of them works out their issues and finds their way in life.

Disclosure: I received a copy of this book for review purposes.  All opinions expressed are my own and I was not paid or influenced in any way. 

This book qualifies for the 2012 YA Contemporary Challenge.

Review: What a Boy Wants by Nyrae Dawn

What a Boy Wants by Nyrae Dawn

Ebook, 142 pages.

Published: April 6th, 2012

Source: Purchased

Courtesy of watching his mom’s relationships, Sebastian Hawkins knows what girls need to do to get a guy. He has what he considers a PHD in hooking up. When he needs extra cash for a car, Sebastian starts up an online venture as The Hook-up Doctor, to anonymously help girls land the guy of their dreams. Of course, his services don’t offer a happily-ever-after guarantee. He’s seen firsthand getting together never means staying together.

And then he falls in love…

With the last girl he would expect…

Totally not in his game plan.

Suddenly, Sebastian finds himself muddled in the game he’s always prided himself on. He can’t even pick up girls at parties anymore! Why would anyone want to be in love when it turns you into a stuttering, screwed-up, mess with really lame stalker tendencies? Stalking? Totally not his gig.

But the Hook-up Doctor won’t let himself go down easily. He’s always known how to give a girl what she wants and now it’s time to figure out what a boy wants… and he definitely plans on getting it.

I bought this book awhile back after seeing quite a few great reviews of it.  But it was more recently that I saw the review on Bewitched Bookworms that I decided I was going to squeeze it in.  It just sounded so light and fun and a contemporary that would possibly take me out of my reading funk.  And it totally did!  It was a super fast read with characters that I absolutely adored!

Sebastian was so easy to picture and imagine.  He was a guy that wasn't perfect and even had me 'yelling' at him a few times, but he was still so darn likable!  He was a guy not afraid to hug his mom and while he pushed his feeling and emotions aside at times, once he accepted them he wasn't embarrassed to let it show.   He was honestly a character that I really enjoyed reading about.  Now, I really enjoyed him and his personality, he was a blast to read about, but at one point I could have slugged him for a decision he made (well, a few) and that is actually the reason I think I knocked it down one star.  It's just infuriating when characters make decisions like that.  BUT, I kind of 'get' why he did it too.  Still too infuriating for me though.

It was a very sweet romance with no insta-love and was a super fast story that can easily be devoured in one sitting.  I most definitely recommend you pick this one up, I'm pretty sure that you will love it!  I look forward to picking up the companion novel, What a Boy Needs.

This one qualifies for the YA Contemporary Challenge 2012.

Review: What I Didn't Say by Keary Taylor

What I Didn't Say by Keary Taylor

ebook, 326 pages

Published April 30th, 2012 by the author

Source: Purchased

Getting drunk homecoming night your senior year is never a good idea, but Jake Hayes never expected it all to end with a car crash and a t-post embedded in his throat.

His biggest regret about it all? What he never said to Samantha Shay. He's been in love with her for years and never had the guts to tell her. Now it's too late. Because after that night, Jake will never be able to talk again.

When Jake returns to his small island home, population 5,000, he'll have to learn how to deal with being mute. He also finds that his family isn't limited to his six brothers and sisters, that sometimes an entire island is watching out for you. And when he gets the chance to spend more time with Samantha, she'll help him learn that not being able to talk isn’t the worst thing that could ever happen to you. Maybe, if she'll let him, Jake will finally tell her what he didn't say before, even if he can't actually say it.

I first posted this review at Novels, News & Notes From Your Northwest Neighbors.

There's so much awesome and beauty in this book it's hard to know where to start.  First of all, Jake was a fantastic main character.  Jake felt real to me.  He had fears about telling Samantha how he felt, he was afraid of everyone judging him after the accident, he was embarrassed about standing out because of his scar and being unable to speak.  He was also a nice guy.  He wasn't the bad boy, but he wasn't a goody two shoes either.  He was the perfect medium and I liked that.

Family was an important part of the story.  His parents and brothers and sisters were very much a part of the story.  They were there for him and were the kind of family anyone would want.  I just loved how integral they were to the story because that's hard to find in YA.

Besides Jake getting in the accident and losing his vocal cords and then regretting not telling Samantha his feelings, there is more going on in the book.  Samantha has some secrets of her own and it was heartbreaking standing by and watching all she went through.  But it added another element to the story and I thought it was fabulous.

The romance in this one was sweet.  There's no insta-love and it develops slowly.  It was great watching them discover so much together and how important they were to each other.  Every moment they spent together I felt the vibe between them.

This is a self published title and the editing was done well.  It wasn't perfect, I did see a few errors, but nothing took away from the story.  The flow was pretty good, there were just a few spots that felt a bit slow to me but I still managed to read the book in a day so it wasn't real slow.  And it may have just been me.

Overall this was a fantastic young adult contemporary read that I most certainly do recommend you check out!

Disclosure:  I purchased a copy of this book.  All opinions expressed are my own and I was not paid or influenced in any way.

This book fits the YA Contemporary Challenge 2012.  Click the button for more information.

Review: Smart Girls Get What They Want by Sarah Strohmeyer

Smart Girls Get What They Want by Sarah Strohmeyer

Hardcover, 352 pages

Published: June 26th, 2012 by Balzer + Bray

Source: Publisher

Gigi, Bea, and Neerja are best friends and total overachievers. Even if they aren't the most popular girls in school, they aren't too worried. They know their "real" lives will begin once they get to their Ivy League colleges. There will be ivy, and there will be cute guys in the libraries (hopefully with English accents) But when an unexpected event shows them they're missing out on the full high school experience, it's time to come out of the honors lounge and into the spotlight. They make a pact: They will each take on their greatest challenge--and they will totally "rock" it.

Gigi decides to run for student rep, but she'll have to get over her fear of public speaking--and go head-to-head with gorgeous California Will. Bea used to be one of the best skiers around, until she was derailed. It could be time for her to take the plunge again. And Neerja loves the drama club but has always stayed behind the scenes--until now.

These friends are determined to show the world that smart girls really can get what they want--but that could mean getting way more attention than they ever bargained for. . . .

I hadn't heard of this book until it showed up unexpected in my mailbox one day and since it was nearly time for it to be released I figured I'd better get it read.   And wow!  What an awesome surprise!  I totally got into this book right away and fell in love with Gigi and her awesome personality.  She's kind of middle of the road as far as her personality goes.  She's not afraid to speak up, but she doesn't do so all the time, she sometimes holds it in.  But she's the kind of girl I love to read about, she really stood out for me and I absolutely loved her!  Yes, she was a little clueless sometimes when it came to boys, but she handled everything pretty good and I loved that she didn't go completely gaga when a boy gave her attention.  She did in her head at first, but she didn't really lay it all out, which made her really smart in my book.  (Meaning she didn't totally make a fool of herself when she so easily could have.)

What I loved the most was her devotion to her friends.  She always put them first.  She made some mistakes, but she learned from them immediately and didn't make the same mistake again.  She was willing to pretty much do anything for them, even if it basically meant risking her life.  Friendships like that are hard to find.  I would like Gigi to be my best friend.

The romance in this book is one of those that's a little bit twisty.  There are two boys that could be potential love interests and I don't want to give anything away, so I'm going to be vague.  But it's not really a love triangle.  It's some difficult choices for Gigi though, that's for sure!  And the romance, well, it becomes clear how it's going to go and from that point on it's so sweet!  Yes, I like the sweet kind of romance.  The kind that's not firy passion, but more the quiet 'perfect for each other' kind of thing.  Especially when the tension is between the characters for a long time, where you really feel the vibe and just hope your hardest that they'll finally figure it out.  It's the kind of romance I like anyway.

I went in knowing nothing about this book so I had zero expectations.  But it ended up being a very fun ride.  I had plenty of giggles along the way and it was a light, non stressful read.  I very highly suggest you pick it up, it's perfect for summer!

Disclosure:  I received a copy for review purposes.  All opinions expressed are my own and I was not paid or influenced in any way.

This book qualifies for the YA Contemporary Challenge 2012.

Review: Something Like Normal by Trish Dollar

Something Like Normal by Trish Dollar

Hardcover, 224 pgs.

Expected publication: June 19th, 2012 by Bloomsbury

Source: Netgalley/Bloomsbury

When Travis returns home from a stint in Afghanistan, his parents are splitting up, his brother’s stolen his girlfriend and his car, and he’s haunted by nightmares of his best friend’s death. It’s not until Travis runs into Harper, a girl he’s had a rocky relationship with since middle school, that life actually starts looking up. And as he and Harper see more of each other, he begins to pick his way through the minefield of family problems and post-traumatic stress to the possibility of a life that might resemble normal again. Travis’s dry sense of humor, and incredible sense of honor, make him an irresistible and eminently lovable hero.

Something Like Normal was a book that I was dying to read after I saw that people were absolutely raving about it.  And I have to say, I am so glad I did!  It completely blew me away and was a book I completely fell in love with.

Now, if you haven't read that description please go back and do so.  Is there anything that really stands out to you?  I can't say that much did for me.  Yeah, it sounds good but not absolutely incredible.  But it was, trust me.  Travis was a character that felt real to me.  His typical guy bit as well as his sense of honor (yes, that bit is in the description!) that really starts to shine through as the book goes on.  He's had to deal with a lot and he's struggling, but he really starts to find his way in this book.  As he struggles with his friends death and post traumatic stress he's also dealing with his awful father and his mother who's been broken by her husbands douche-bag ways and ideas. At the same time he's falling for Harper who was an absolute gem.  I was a little surprised she was willing to give him the time of day after I heard of the awful things he did (or said) way back (even though he didn't really) but she's very forgiving and I felt like she saw through him and saw all the good he had stored up inside when so many others didn't really.  Not even himself.

This book is definitely aimed at more mature readers (high school, not middle school) as the main character is in the Marines (so a bit of cursing) and there's lots of talk about sex (fade out, no description).  It wasn't anything that bothered me, it all felt important to the story and made it more authentic.  I just want a warning there for the younger readers.

I very highly recommend this book to mature YA readers as well as adults.  This is a book that boys would likely enjoy as well as long as they can look past the kissing on the cover.  It was a fast read and full of beauty that you surely don't want to miss!

Disclosure:  I received a copy of this book for review purposes.  All opinions expressed are my own and I was not paid or influenced in any way.

This book qualifies for the YA Contemporary Challenge 2012.

Review: In Honor by Jessi Kirby {A Truly Amazing Story!}

In Honor by Jessi Kirby

Hardcover, 240 pgs.

Published May 8th, 2012 by Simon & Schuster

Source: Borrowed

Description from Goodreads

A devastating loss leads to an unexpected road trip in this novel from the author of Moonglass, whose voice Sarah Dessen says “is fresh and wise, all at once.”

Hours after her brother’s military funeral, Honor opens the last letter Finn ever sent. In her grief, she interprets his note as a final request and spontaneously decides to go to California to fulfill it.

Honor gets as far as the driveway before running into Rusty, Finn’s best friend since third grade and his polar opposite. She hasn’t seen Rusty in ages, but it’s obvious he is as arrogant and stubborn as ever—not to mention drop-dead gorgeous. Despite Honor’s better judgment, the two set off together on a voyage from Texas to California. Along the way, they find small and sometimes surprising ways to ease their shared loss and honor Finn’s memory—but when shocking truths are revealed at the end of the road, will either of them be able to cope with the consequences?

There are few no words I would ever find to adequately describe the beauty of this book.  This book was everything I could ever want.  More than I could ever dream of.  This book was so gorgeous that it made me cry just because of the perfectness.  The writing was beyond beautiful, the characters were so real that I felt like they were people I really knew.  And while they were amazing they also had their faults which made them even more real.  

This is a book that would be easy for me to just gush and gush and gush about.  I don't even know what to say other than I really hope you read this book.  It made me cry, it made laugh, it made me feel all those things you want to feel and experience from a truly amazing book.  I honestly cannot recommend this book highly enough, whether you're a teenager or an adult it is a must read.  And if you don't read contemporary, well, this is the one to start with.  GO FREAKING READ IT!

5/5 stars!  There's no way I could rate this one less!

Disclosure:  I read an advanced reading copy of this book.  I borrowed this book from a friend and was not paid or influenced in any way.  All opinions expressed are my own.

This book qualifies for the 2012 YA Contemporary Reading Challenge.

Review: From What I Remember by Stacy Kramer and Valerie Thomas

From What I Remember by Stacy Kramer and Valerie Thomas

Hardcover, 462 pgs.

Published May 15th, 2012 by Hyperion

Source: NetGalley/Publisher

KYLIE: Tijuana WHAT? I should be putting the finishing touches on my valedictorian speech. Graduation is TODAY, and is this a wedding band on my finger.

MAX: It all started with Kylie's laptop and a truck full of stolen electronics Okay, it was kind of hot, the way she broke us out like some chick in an action movie. But now we're stranded in TIjuana. WIth less than twenty-four hours before graduation. Awesome.

WILL: Saving Kylie Flores from herself is kind of a full-time occupation. Luckily, I, Will Bixby, was born for the job. And when I found out she was stuck in Mexico with dreamy Max Langston, sure, I agreed to bring thier passports across the border--but there's no reason to rush back home right away. This party is just getting started.

LILY: I just walked in on my boyfriend, Max Langston, canoodling with Kylie Flores, freak of the century. Still, I can't completely hold it against him. He NEEDS me. It's even clearer now. And I'm not giving him up without a fight.

 You ever read a book and as you're reading it you're thinking 'OMG, this is a screenplay!  It was MADE for the big screen!?'  Well, I don't think that often but this book, this book IS a movie in book form.  It seriously was so visual for me it was like I was reading a movie.  And I'm not a big movie person... so if this doesn't become a movie I'll be surprised. (And please note that both authors DO actually write screenplays, so maybe I shouldn't be so surprised.)

This book was absolutely terrific!  I was really digging the characters and they felt unique to me.  And the story was definitely unlike anything I've read before.  I felt like everything really did POP and stand out.  I loved the whole idea of the story and how it all worked.  I liked that the authors brought it all to a real conclusion and didn't leave much open for us.  That part especially felt movie-like.  However, I can see that others won't like that aspect of it and will say they wish it had ended a couple chapters earlier.  I love me a good conclusion though, I don't like having to guess.  

Kylie and Max really go on a journey in this book and I loved watching their progression.  The book takes place over a period of two days (for the most part) but it worked.  Kylie was the studious nerd and Max was the rich guy that wasn't very nice.  But as they were forced to spend time together in the epic adventure (is it an adventure if you don't choose to be there?) they start to bring out the best in each other and find there's much more to the other.   And we can't leave out the flamboyantly gay bff Will as he was a pretty awesome character that just brought a bit of life to everything.  And he wasn't just a convenient character for plot development, he had his own stuff going on which I really liked.  It made him important to the story without him taking over.  I wouldn't mind a story all about him actually...  Oh, and Kylie's little brother Jake who has aspergers.  He had a few little parts from his POV and I thought that added another layer of awesome because how often do we see that?  And it helped us really get an idea of what it's like as well as what Kylie and her family have to go through.

This book is a bit long and I read the e-arc so I wasn't for sure if parts might be cut out, but looking at the page number it looks like it's going to be pretty long for the final edition.  I didn't really mind this too much though, it seemed to work for this one cause it never really got boring for me.  

I very highly recommend this to more mature YA readers as well as adults look for a good YA contemporary.  There was just a little bit of bad language and some sexual insinuation but the content wasn't too bad.  

4.5/5 stars!

Disclosure:  I received a copy of this book for review purposes.  All opinions expressed are my own and I was not paid or influenced in any way.

This book qualifies for the YA Contemporary Challenge 2012.  For more info click the button.

Review: Supergirl Mixtapes by Meagan Brothers

Supergirl Mixtapes by Meagan Brothers
Young Adult
Hardcover, 245 pgs.
Expected Publication: April 24th, 2012 by Henry Holt & Co.
Source: NetGalley & Henry Holt & Co.

After years of boredom in her rural South Carolina town, Maria is thrilled when her father finally allows her to visit her estranged artist mother in New York City. She’s ready for adventure, and she soon finds herself immersed in a world of rock music and busy streets, where new people and ideas lie around every concrete corner. This is the freedom she’s always longed for—and she pushes for as much as she can get, skipping school to roam the streets, visit fancy museums, and flirt with the cute clerk at a downtown record store.

But just like her beloved New York City, Maria’s life has a darker side. Behind her mother’s carefree existence are shadowy secrets, and Maria must decide just where—and with whom—her loyalty lies.

This book was full of awesome that I totally loved!  It also had some things that I felt really needed to be developed more as well.  But when I finished the book I felt happy and I can honestly say that I really enjoyed it.

Maria moves to NYC to live with her mom and her moms boyfriend who is only six years older then Maria.  Maria's mother has always been absent and she hasn't seen her since she was very young.  She knows that her mom is a bit flighty and has some issues but she doesn't really understand them or know what they really are until she's living with her.  And it's not really until the last quarter or so that we really see what the issues really are (other then her being obsessed with music and not very present for her daughter).  

I liked the characters in the book.  I liked their personalities and all that but I never felt really wow'd by them.  I don't really have a lot to say about them actually.  Maria's mom was a bit neurotic so I can picture her the best because her personality came out the strongest.  Her moms boyfriend Travis is a good friend to Maria and I think he could have used a bit more character development and stood out just a bit more.  He was important to the story but didn't quite POP like he could have.  But I liked him and I just wanted more.  

Graham was the love interest but I never really felt anything toward him.  He really felt like a side character and not important.  And he wasn't real terrible important but Maria has feelings for him and I just never felt it.

Okay, so it seems like things have been kind of negative so far but I honestly did enjoy the book.  The thing I really liked the most was the time period and the setting.  Maria is the same age as me which makes the book take place in the 90's.  There was so much I connected with.  It was only briefly mentioned but Maria's grief over Kurt Cobains death (OMG!  That was HUGE for me!), and Maria was teased for wearing JNCO's (remember those?!  I wore them!).  And for those of you who don't know, they are huge saggy pants.  The kind where the pockets are at your ankles (practically anyway ;)  The music scene, the grunge scene, all that stuff- I so totally connected! The setting of NYC was absolutely fantastic!  I would have LOVED this book as a teen.  I wanted to move to NYC so freaking bad!  I was happy to just read about Maria's experiences in the city but I really was wishing for more conflict, more to move the plot along a bit.  In the last quarter it really did move along and suddenly the story itself was absolutely terrific.  But then it just ended.  I didn't feel like we really got the full conclusion to everything like I would have liked.  At the same time I kind of 'get' why the author ended it there though.  We can come up with our own conclusions I suppose.  I'm just a fan of everything getting wrapped up and that's a personal preference.


Overall I enjoyed the book.  I think that if things had been a bit more developed this would be a 5 star book for me.  I also have to mention that for those who didn't grow up in the 90's and experience those things probably won't enjoy the book that much.  There is TONS of music talk and if your not familiar with the scene it'll go right over your head.  So, if your ready for some 90's nostalgia, go read it!


3/5 stars


Disclosure:  I received an advance copy for review purposes.  The final version may be different from the copy I read.  This review is my own opinion and I was not paid or influenced in any way.

 This book qualifies for the YA Contemporary Challenge 2012.  Click the button to find out more.

Review: The Miseducation of Cameron Post by Emily Danforth

The Miseducation of Cameron Post by Emily M. Danforth
Young Adult/ Contemporary (LGBT)
Hardcover, 480 pages.
Published Feb. 7th, 2012 by Balzer + Bray
Source: Gifted an ARC

When Cameron Post’s parents die suddenly in a car crash, her shocking first thought is relief. Relief she’ll never have to tell them that, hours earlier, she had been kissing a girl.

But that relief soon turns to heartbreak, as Cam is forced to move in with her conservative aunt Ruth. She knows that from this point on, her life will forever be different. Survival in Miles City, Montana, means blending in and not making waves, and Cam becomes an expert at this—especially at avoiding any questions about her sexuality.

Then Coley Taylor moves to town. Beautiful pickup-driving Coley is a perfect cowgirl with the perfect boyfriend to match. To Cam’s surprise, she and Coley become best friends—while Cam secretly dreams of something more. Just as that starts to seem like a real possibility, her secret is exposed. Ultrareligious Aunt Ruth takes drastic action to “fix” her niece, bringing Cam face-to-face with the cost of denying her true self—even if she’s not quite sure who that is.

The Miseducation of Cameron Post is a stunning and unforgettable literary debut about discovering who you are and finding the courage to live life according to your own rules.

This book was quietly beautiful.  It had many passages that really moved me, words that really stuck in my head and felt so very perfect.  It was slower paced but never boring.  I found myself captivated by Cameron Post and her life as it felt so very similar to my own as a teenager.  I didn't struggle with the same issues she did exactly but I still felt such a strong connection to so much in this book it took me back to my teenage years more then probably any other contemporary I've read.  One reason is that this book takes in Miles City Montana and while I grew up in Sturgis South Dakota (a small town as well) I did spend many weekends and most summers in Sheridan Wyoming which is quite close to Miles City.  We shopped in Billings (those from Miles City did as well) and we just lived similar lives.  Lots of cowboys, lots of super religious people, lots of parties and smoking of weed (yes, there's lots of marijuana smoking in this book) and all those little things just brought me closer to Cameron and her life.  I also had a very close friend who liked girls and struggled with the things that Cameron did.  As her close friend it was so hard to watch her go through everything, to be ridiculed and put down and told it's a sickness and she needs to be strong in her faith and overcome it.  I spent so many nights with her trying to convince her that nothing was wrong with her and once she was 18 she could get out of there and she would see that she's not the only one in the world and that others will accept her.  


Another thing that I loved was that this takes place in the early 90's.  I was a teenager in the 90's as well so the pop culture references, the music, the movies, the words, every little thing, that was me, that was my life as a teen.  I remember watching Beaches over and over with my friend and crying and crying.  I remember listening to the music Cameron listened to.  All these things aren't that important to the story, but for those of us that lived through that, it's just a big bonus and made the book that much better for me.


This isn't a book for everyone.  It has a strong LGBT theme.  There's drug use (just marijuana) and drinking.  There's cursing.  There's sex (no description really, you just know what happens).  Personally none of this bothered me which is strange since I usually dislike much of any of that and all of it is actually quite present in the book.  Maybe it was because I was transported to being a teen and this book felt as accurate and authentic as it gets.  


I very highly recommend this book and if you're concerned about getting it for your child or your classroom give it a read first.  It's one I really feel should be in classrooms as there are so many teens that could really benefit from it, but I can also see that it is probably a book that will enrage some parents.  It's definitely a high school and older kind of book.


Please, please give this book a chance.  It makes me tear up to think about it, but this was a book I really could have used as a teenager.  Whether a person is LGBT, it doesn't really matter.  There's so much to connect with in this book for any teenager. 


I give this one 5/5 stars, how could I not?  It's perfect!

Review: Freshman Year & Other Unnatural Disasters by Meredith Zeitlin

Young Adult Contemporary
288 pgs.
Expected Publication: March 1st, 2012 by Putnam
Source: Publisher *for review*

Kelsey Finkelstein is fourteen and FRUSTRATED. Every time she tries to live up to her awesome potential, her plans are foiled – by her impossible parents, her annoying little sister, and life in general. But with her first day of high school coming up, Kelsey is positive that things are going to change. Enlisting the help of her three best friends — sweet and quiet Em, theatrical Cass, and wild JoJo — Kelsey gets ready to rebrand herself and make the kind of mark she knows is her destiny.

Things start out great - her arch-nemesis has moved across the country, giving Kelsey the perfect opportunity to stand out on the soccer team and finally catch the eye of her long-time crush. But soon enough, an evil junior’s thirst for revenge, a mysterious photographer, and a series of other catastrophes make it clear that just because KELSEY has a plan for greatness… it doesn’t mean the rest of the world is in on it.

Kelsey’s hilarious commentary throughout her disastrous freshman year will have you laughing out loud—while being thankful that you’re not in her shoes, of course…

Kelsey Finkelstein has stolen my heart away!  Now this is the kind of character I love to read about.  She's sarcastic, enthusiastic, and absolutely hilarious!  I spent so much time laughing when reading this book and at one point it took me ten minutes to read 3 pages because I was laughing so hard.  I love that feeling!  And when I finished I was ready to pick it up and start it all over again and I very rarely feel that way even when I do love a book.   Kelsey might overreact about some things but her ability to accept the inevitable is astounding.  She ends up taking it in stride and I loved that about her.  It seemed one thing after another happened to her and the embarrassing things she goes through has you thinking that she's just going to give up and walk away, but no way!  That is definitely not her style.  She follows through with everything she starts.  


Now Kelsey is not only a fabulous character in her personality but she felt real to me.  The things she thinks and does (as well as the other characters in the book) just feels real.  We know that teens drink and there's some drinking involved but it's actually mostly responsible drinking.  I mean, she's not all getting drunk and running around the city or doing stupid things.  I was actually okay with how it played out, it all worked and felt right to me. 


This book has a touch of romance and it's definitely very sweet but it's really only a touch and not much of anything until the end.  I thought it was great because we actually have a chance for some real build up and never really know if things would ever go anywhere.  The tension was unbelievable and perfect and although I wanted to see more it really was perfect.  


This is a light hearted and fun book but it has real teen issues.  These are things that normal everyday teens deal with.  Friendship, romance, parties, school activities, family, it's all real stuff.  No one's dying, no one has an eating disorder or is suicidal.  But even though it has no big issues, these are Kelsey's issues and we see them as she sees them and they are still things she has to deal with.  And I absolutely loved how this book went.  How the author made things that may seem boring and mundane absolutely captivating.  She blew me away and I am very eager for more from Meredith Zeitlin, this is one of the funnest (and funniest) books I've ever read!  I very highly recommend you pick it up!


5/5 stars!


Disclosure: I received a copy of this book for review purposes.  All opinions expressed are my own and I was not paid or influenced in any way.  I read the ARC version of the book and the final version may have slight changes.  

This book fits for the 2012 Young Adult Contemporary Challenge. Click the button to find out more!

Review: Bittersweet by Sarah Ockler

Bittersweet by Sarah Ockler
Young Adult
Hardcover, 378 pgs.
Published Jan. 3rd, 2012 by Simon Pulse
Source: Purchased

Once upon a time, Hudson knew exactly what her future looked like. Then a betrayal changed her life, and knocked her dreams to the ground. Now she’s a girl who doesn’t believe in second chances… a girl who stays under the radar by baking cupcakes at her mom’s diner and obsessing over what might have been.

So when things start looking up and she has another shot at her dreams, Hudson is equal parts hopeful and terrified. Of course, this is also the moment a cute, sweet guy walks into her life…and starts serving up some seriously mixed signals. She’s got a lot on her plate, and for a girl who’s been burned before, risking it all is easier said than done.

It’s time for Hudson to ask herself what she really wants, and how much she’s willing to sacrifice to get it. Because in a place where opportunities are fleeting, she knows this chance may very well be her last….

I think I started this one at the wrong time, I just had a hard time getting into it.  I finally put it aside until I was more in the mood and the next time I picked it up it hit the spot much better.  It was still a bit slow but as the story went on I found myself much more engrossed in the story. 

Hudson was a character that had to grow on me.  I just wasn't feeling her at first.  But then I felt sorry for her because she had so much going on and her mother just kept piling more on her shoulders.  She had much more responsibility then any teenager should have and I felt so much anger and frustration for her.  She just let her mother walk all over her because she knew she had a lot going on herself.  Now, it sounds like her mother is bad, and she's not really- she loves Hudson she just kind of forgets she's just a kid and needs a life too.  As the story goes on Hudson learns to find her voice in some things and also becomes determined she's going to 'get out of this hole'.  I think anyone who's lived in a small town knows that feeling.  I know in my small town everyone was talking about getting out of there.  Doing something better.  It takes a lot for Hudson to realize and appreciate some of what she has.  And I understand both points.  Wanting to get out, but yet she loves her family.  And her family includes her adorable little brother whom I loved!  She also has an absent father, so that plays a role as well. 


A lot of the book takes place in the diner that Hudsons mother owns.  I can't say I really connected with this because I've never worked in a diner, but I thought it was interesting and equal parts terrifying because of the way some of the customers treat the waitresses.  I tried to waitress once and I was the kind of waitress that didn't put up with stuff, which got me fired.  Definitely not my thing.  {Oh, you're not suppose to throw wine in the rude customers face?  Hmmm...}


I really liked the main boys in the story.  Even the one that is not all good was still kind of likable.  Like he wasn't really a bad guy which I really liked in this case.  And the romance was good, though a bit frustrating cause you just want to jump in and communicate for them.  Seriously, just talk already!   I wish there was more interaction with the hockey team as a whole because I think it would have been fun, but we get the gist of how things went at practice and how things changed for the team and for Hudson.  


Overall it was a pretty good read.  It's about a girl finding herself and her happiness, friendship, romance and family. I have a feeling that my timing was off when I read this one.  I think in other circumstances I would probably rate this one higher.  I'll have to do a reread one day in the future.


3.5/5 stars


This one fits for the 2012 Young Adult Contemporary Challenge.  Click the button to find out more! 

Review: The Disenchantments by Nina LaCour

The Disenchantments by Nina LaCour
Young Adult
Hardcover, 304 pgs. *I read an ARC*
Published February 16th, 2012 by Dutton
Source: Publisher for Review

Colby and Bev have a long-standing pact: graduate, hit the road with Bev's band, and then spend the year wandering around Europe. But moments after the tour kicks off, Bev makes a shocking announcement: she's abandoning their plans - and Colby - to start college in the fall. But the show must go on and The Disenchantments weave through the Pacific Northwest, playing in small towns and dingy venues, while roadie- Colby struggles to deal with Bev's already-growing distance and the most important question of all: what's next?
Morris Award—finalist Nina LaCour draws together the beauty and influences of music and art to brilliantly capture a group of friends on the brink of the rest of their lives.

This was an absolutely lovely book!  It really looks like it's a lighthearted and fun read but it really has some depth to it.  Each character is dealing with something big and this tour is the last chance they all have to spend together before everything changes.

I really adore the characters in this one.  Colby is the narrator (a male narrator, YAY!) and he was so cute!  I mean, he seemed like a normal boy.  He was a brilliant artist but other then that he was just normal.  Well, except the fact that he's in love with his best friend Bev.  Now Bev was one of those characters that I just didn't like at all.  She seemed so stuck on herself and she was telling lie after lie and I just didn't know what to make of her.  But then as the story went on I started to understand some of her actions.  I think that she should never have let things get as bad as they did, but I kind of understood her a bit more.  Now Alexa and Meg, oh I loved those girls!  They are bold and outspoken but not in a rude way.  It's like they are so full of love they just share it with everyone.  They are quirky and they dress in this adorable way and they are just so lovable!  They brought a lot more lightness to the book and kept it from ever really getting depressing.  The main characters are all great but I also loved the characters that only had brief parts.  They all stood out and were memorable.  They were quirky and weird and they show that there are lots of awesome people in this world and getting out there and meeting some is totally worth it!

Now the road trip theme of the book I loved!  And the end of their trip was here!  In Portland (okay, I'm like a bridge away but I say that's close enough ;).  So it was neat to really be able to picture them here.  And while it was only a small part it was a bonus.

This was a fantastic and fun read but still dealt with these things that teens have to go through once they finish high school.  The decisions they must make and how it's hard to part with your friends, family and life.

Now the characters in this book are 18 and so I would recommend it for more mature readers.  There is sex, though it's not described, and there's a little bit of cursing.

4.5/5 stars!

Disclosure: I received an advance copy of this book for review purposes.  All opinions expressed are my own and I was not paid or influenced in any way.  The finished version may have some changes from the copy I read.

This qualifies for the YA Contemporary Challenge 2102.