Alfie the Sniffer Pup (November '12 Edition)

Alfie the Sniffer Pup is a monthly feature here on A Reading Daydreamer where I spotlight exciting upcoming releases and book-ish news which my pup, Alfie has kindly 'sniffed' out for me!

Alfie has been working hard this month to sniff out some awesome releases for you despite the cold weather! If, like Alfie, you're not particularly fond of freezing cold temperatures, why not cosy up with one of the books featured below?

Reached by Ally Condie

Days of Blood and Starlight by Laini Taylor

Undeadly by Michele Vail

Black City by Elizabeth Richards

Renegade by J.A. Souders

Meant to Be by Lauren Morrill

Deity by Jennifer L. Armentrout

Echo by Alyson Noel

Morningside by Ashley Madau

Lullaby by Amanda Hocking

Witch World by Christopher Pike

Bad Hair Day by Carrie Harris

Greta and the Goblin Kind by Chloe Jacobs

Luminosity by Stephanie Thomas

Touched by Corrine Jackson

Lots of amazing book coming out this month, huh?  I'll probably cosy up in a blanket on the sofa and snuggle down with a good read, while blissfully listening to the fireworks outside!

That's another Sniffer report from me and Alfie for the coming month!  Hope you guys have a splendid November!

Happy reading,

Beverley xxx

REVIEW: Smart Girls Get What They Want by Sarah Strohmeyer

Name: Smart Girls Get What They Want

Author: Sarah Strohmeyer

Publisher: Balzer + Bray

Release Date: June 26, 2012 (US)

Pages: 352, Hardcover

Source: ARC from Library group

Rating: 4.5 Teacups

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. . . .

[summary taken from Goodreads]

Jen's Review

Guys, this book was SO SO CUTE. Like I love it a lot. This book was MADE for me, I swear. Not only did the cover & title attract my attention, but I instantly knew that I would be able to connect with the characters in the book, because, well, I'm a nerd, too. I'm so glad to say that my hypothesis was correct; I completely understood the characters and thoroughly enjoyed Smart Girls Get What They Want.

I'm not even quite sure if there is anything that I didn't like about this book. As I mentioned before, the characters were so awesome. ALL three main protagonists were fresh, funny, and sweet. I so need a group of supportive friends like Bea and Neerja! I loved all of them equally.

And let's not forget about the boys of the book. Will was totally swoon-worthy, in the beach boy type of way. But towards the end, I decided to fall for the other boy, Mike. In contrast, Mike was annoying in the beginning, but his sweet side shines through in the end it's just freaking cute.

The plot was extremely fun as well! The concept was pretty simple but Sarah Strohmeyer was capable of making it interesting. I wasn't bored for a second! Just the everyday lives of the high school girls were entertaining to read about. There were just so many elements in the novel that was so relatable that made it smooth and easy to read through (it freaking scared me how similar Gigi's life is to mine! i.e. We both want British husbands, we're both taking advanced chemistry, etc.).

That said, I would reread it again without hesitation. Smart Girls Get What They Want is an adorable contemporary that readers will enjoy (especially if you're a smart girl yourself! ;)) If you're looking for a fun, light, cute read, this one is highly, highly recommended!

4.5 Teacups for Smart Girls Get What They Want!

REVIEW: Mockingbird by Kathryn Erskine

Name: Mockingbird

Author: Kathryn Erskine

Publisher: Usbourne

Release date: January 2012

Pages: 223

Source:  For review 

Rating: 4 stars

11-year-old Caitlin has Asperger’s syndrome, and has always had her older brother, Devon, to explain the confusing things around her. But when Devon is killed in a tragic school shooting, Caitlin has to try and make sense of the world without him. With her dad spending most of his time crying in the shower, and her life at school becoming increasingly difficult, it doesn’t seem like things will ever get better again.     

[summary taken from Goodreads]

Beverley's Review

Mockingbird is a heart-warming tale of a young girl suffering from Asperger's syndrome and who must deal with the aftermath of her brother's death.  When Caitlin's older brother, Devon, dies in a tragic shooting, her world falls apart.  She has relied on him to give her answers and guide her way through life.  Will she ever be able to find closure?

Kathryn Erskine has created an incredibly sensitive account and brings forward a truly unique perspective.  There are books that can be enjoyable without complex characters and twisting plots, and Mockingbird is the perfect example.  The language is simple yet evocative, inducing smiles, laughs and tears.

Due to Asperger's syndrome, Caitlin sees life in a very pure and innocent way.  She views things as they are and does not look deep beneath the surface, thus the first-person narration is very naive, leading you straight into Caitlin's world to experience her perspective.  I found this to be really interesting and it gave me a greater understanding of people with Asperger's.

Because of this insight, it didn't matter to me if the plot was slow-paced.  Sweet, poignant moments cropped up every now and then, especially ones where Caitlin's only friend Michael was featured.  Also seeing Caitlin grow as a character and pull through her grief filled me with such warmth and pride as if I was watching a little sister spread her wings.

Mockingbird made me realise that even though we all live in the same world, others can view it so differently and it is our duty to embrace them and not isolate them from society.  Despite not being entirely original, Mockingbird is certainly a poignant, refreshing read, giving the reader a perceptive insight which is sure to touch their hearts.

4 teacups for Mockingbird!

*Thanks to the author and Usbourne for sending me a review copy*

Gravity Blog Tour: Review + Giveaway!

Today I am here as a participant for the Gravity Blog Tour, hosted by the lovely Shane at Itching For Books. Thanks so much for having me on this tour! I have my review of Gravity to share with you guys, as well as a giveaway! Yay! Check out the rest of the blog tour here.

Name: Gravity

Author: Melissa West

Publisher: Entangled Publishing

Release Date: October 30, 2012 (US)

Pages: 350, Paperback

Source: Received for Review (Blog Tour)

Rating: 4 Teacups

In the future, only one rule will matter:
Don’t. Ever. Peek.
Seventeen-year-old Ari Alexander just broke that rule and saw the last person she expected hovering above her bed — arrogant Jackson Locke, the most popular boy in her school. She expects instant execution or some kind of freak alien punishment, but instead, Jackson issues a challenge: help him, or everyone on Earth will die.
Ari knows she should report him, but everything about Jackson makes her question what she’s been taught about his kind. And against her instincts, she’s falling for him. But Ari isn’t just any girl, and Jackson wants more than her attention. She’s a military legacy who’s been trained by her father and exposed to war strategies and societal information no one can know — especially an alien spy, like Jackson. Giving Jackson the information he needs will betray her father and her country, but keeping silent will start a war.[summary taken from Goodreads]

Jen's Review

Prior to reading the book, I didn't really know what Gravity was about. The synopsis is a bit vague--you've got a rebellion-like thing going on, a military legacy girl who is falling in love with a guy she shouldn't be falling in love with, and a planet on the cover. Out of the world creatures, perhaps? I don't know about other readers, but I was still confused as to what this supernatural creature exactly was until nearly halfway through the book, thus causing an instant downfall in my enjoyment for the book. No one likes to be confused for THAT LONG. It took much too long for the concept to be introduced. Other than that, Gravity had an exciting plot and a kick-butt main protagonist that was able to keep my interest throughout the entire novel.

As I mentioned before, the reader doesn't find out what the supernatural creature of the novel is until about 30%-50% of the novel is done. Ancients, is what they're called. I was confused and wondering to myself for the longest time, and God knows it's the most frustrating thing ever! No reader likes to be kept in the dark for so long. It also makes it a bit difficult to enjoy the story. Not only was the identity of the creature difficult to fathom, but also "the Taking". What was its purpose? It didn't make sense to me; I think it could have been explained better.

While the concept was a bit confusing, the plot was not. In fact, the plot was really exciting and there were tons of great plot-twisting! It kept me flipping pages; I HAD to know what happened next! Melissa did a great job keeping the reader intrigued.

The best part I think was Ari, the main character. Even though her father was a Commander and she was a military legacy, Ari wasn't strong because of this. I felt like Ari was bold and strong on her own, and I totally admired that about her. While she was hesitant about being with Jackson, she wasn't ever… afraid. She was confident in what she had to get done; in other words, she's a good rebel. *oooooooh, gasp*

Overall, Gravity was a highly enjoyable novel if you are able to see past the confusing section in the beginning of novel. Rebellions, out-of-this-world creatures, and a kick butt character, Gravity is a novel that will captivate you until you finish turn the last page.

4 Teacups for Gravity!

______________________________________________________

Now for the giveaway! One lucky winner will win a signed copy of Gravity, as well as swag!

US readers only, please!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Stitch Blog Tour: Review + Giveaway!

Today I'm delighted to be taking part in the blog tour for Samantha Durante's debut book, Stitch, which is also the first in an exciting new trilogy.  For the tour, I am reviewing the book itself and there is also an opportunity for you to win an e-book copy.


Name: Stitch

Author: Samantha Durante

Publisher: Self

Release date: August 1st 2012

Pages: 314

Source:  For review (from author for blog tour) 

Rating: 4 stars

Her heart races, her muscles coil, and every impulse in Alessa's body screams at her to run... but yet she's powerless to move.
Still struggling to find her footing after the sudden death of her parents, the last thing college freshman Alessa has the strength to deal with is the inexplicable visceral pull drawing her to a handsome ghostly presence. In between grappling with exams and sorority soirees - and disturbing recurring dreams of being captive in a futuristic prison hell - Alessa is determined to unravel the mystery of the apparition who leaves her breathless. But the terrifying secret she uncovers will find her groping desperately through her nightmares for answers.

Because what Alessa hasn't figured out yet is that she's not really a student, the object of her obsession is no ghost, and her sneaking suspicions that something sinister is lurking behind the walls of her university's idyllic campus are only just scratching the surface...

[summary taken from Goodreads]

Beverley's Review

The striking premise which had such space for development was what first drew me to Stitch.  The synopsis itself had me hooked and I wondered how Samantha Durante would spin this tale of love and torment and mystery.

True to its word, Stitch spans different genres and it is difficult to classify it under a particular one.  This is perhaps what makes it so tantalizing and appealing.  Elements of paranormal and romance, sci-fi and dystopian are all thrown into the baking mix to create a pleasing cupcake of a read.  Before reading, I had reservations and suspicions that the author might be trying too hard and that the result would be a  confusing slush pile.  However, I am glad to be proven wrong and that the result was indeed a fine experience.

Another aspect which pleased me was that the potential of the premise was explored and developed.  The storyline was nothing short of complex and new discoveries were constantly made, a factor which  made my hand turn the pages frantically.  I'm still wondering how on earth Samantha Durante thought up the core idea and put it in writing... it is certainly original and unique.

However the pacing wasn't to my tastes.  The beginning of the book was slow, almost a tease.  I wasn't even sure where the story was heading and there were times where I wanted to give up on it.  But it's a book worth sticking with, no matter how hard it is to get into initially.

As the story ploughed on, I was glad to see some character development.  At the start, I didn't connect with Alessa on a deeper level.  This wasn't helped by the fact that the book is told in third-person.  I was able to watch her grow and as she recovered her fearlessness and strong desire to make things right, she became a character worth investing in and admiring but unfortunately, I still wasn't able to really connect with her.  I also wasn't convinced by the chemistry between her and Isaac so I'm hoping these points are developed further in the sequel.

All in all, Stitch is a riveting addition to the world of YA fiction and is one that will make its mark. Despite several flaws, it still succeeds in being a thoroughly enjoyable read, with complex characters and plots.  So before you overlook yet another self-published book, take a chance on Stitch.

4 teacups for Stitch!

*Thanks to the author for sending me a copy for the blog tour*

Hopefully I've enticed you enough to pick up Stitch! Wait no longer because Samantha has kindly offered an e-book copy for me to give away.  Just fill in the Rafflecopter below to be in with a chance.  The giveaway ends on November 5th 2012. (starts in about 8 hours since RC is set in EST time)

a Rafflecopter giveaway

May the odds be ever in your favour!

Showcase Sunday #8

Showcase Sunday is hosted by the lovely Vicky over atBooks, Biscuits, and Tea! It's a great way to share what you have received the past week and to also gush over the wonderful books other bloggers have added to their bookshelves!

Jen's New Books

Borrowed:

Before I Die by Jenny Downham: I already finished listening to this one on audio and it's AWESOME. Will definitely be picking up more books by Jenny soon. My review will be up soon!

Starcrossed by Josephine Angelini: I bought this on Kindle awhile ago, but I figured I would try the audio. :)

For Review:

Gravity by Melissa West: I'M SO EXCITED. :D Sounds so awesome! I've been waiting forever to read this. For blog tour!

Uses For Boys by Erica Lorraine Scheidt: This one sounds really cool, and I love the cover! Couldn't resist. :P

Eleanor & Park by Rainbow Rowell: SERIOUSLY? The most awesome name ever, this author. And it's blurbed by Stephanie Perkins AND Gayle Forman. Yeah, it's an obvious yes for me!

MUCH thanks to Melissa West & Shane (for hosting the blog tour!), St. Martin's Press, and Netgalley!

Beverley didn't get any new books in the past two weeks because she's trying to hold out on requests as she has been swamped by school life.  But there is a way for you to cheer her up... Fill out her form HERE for an upcoming event she and Jen are currently planning!

Happy reading,
Bev and Jen x

REVIEW: If I Stay by Gayle Forman

Name: If I Stay

Author: Gayle Forman

Publisher: Dutton Juvenile//Speak

Release Date: April 2, 2009 (US)

Pages: 201, Hardcover

Source: Audiobook Library

Rating: 4 Teacups

In a single moment, everything changes. Seventeen-year-old Mia has no memory of the accident; she can only recall riding along the snow-wet Oregon road with her family. Then, in a blink, she finds herself watching as her own damaged body is taken from the wreck...
A sophisticated, layered, and heart-achingly beautiful story about the power of family and friends, the choices we all make, and the ultimate choice Mia commands.

[summary taken from Goodreads]

Jen's Review

I'm so glad to say that reading If I Stay the second time around was much more enjoyable. When I read this book previously 2 years ago, I didn't like it much at all. Music? Blegh. BOOOORING. I was particularly annoyed by books about girls in comas, too. But reading it again, I feel like I understood it so much better and it was beautiful. I was so naïve back then.

GAW-JUS WRITING

Gayle Forman's writing is definitely unique and flawless in her own way. I loved it--it's lyrical and it just WORKS, kay? It all flows together and it makes reading the story really enjoyable.

UNIQUE PLOT

If I Stay doesn't follow the usual plot line. If you have no idea what I'm talking about, I'm talking the beginning- climax- solution thing. If I Stay kind of has two stories going on, if you will. Some present day happenings at the hospital, but mostly memories of Mia's past. While the plot wasn't FAST PACED or anything, it's calm and still great. Again, it just WORKS OUT.

GENUINE CHARACTERS

I really could connect with the characters. While Mia and I have no similarities, I liked her still. Her love for music and the cello was passionate and eye-opening. Let's not forget about Mia's family and friends--I couldn't have asked for a better cast of characters. They were all so wonderful!

In all, If I Stay is a must-read contemporary novel for music fans, or heart-wrenching lovers. You won't want to miss out on Forman's beautiful writing style, exclusive plot, and authentic characters!

Audiobook review: My first impression of the audio was that the performer's voice was too old and mature for Mia's voice. But after awhile, I realized that it was perfect and soothing, and it totally made the book THAT much better. Definitely check out the audio if you can!

4 Teacups for If I Stay!

Waiting on Wednesday #10

Waiting on Wednesday is a fabulous meme hosted by Jill at Breaking the Spine!  It's a wonderful chance to share the books we're eagerly anticipating and to find out what our fellow bloggers are looking forward to reading!

Jen's eagerly anticipating...

To want what you’re not supposed to have…
She is only nineteen.
She is his new stepfather’s daughter. 
She is still naïve and innocent due to spending the last three years taking care of her sick mother. 
But for twenty-four year old Rush Finlay, she is the only thing that has ever been off limits. His famous father’s guilt money, his mother’s desperation to win his love, and his charm are the three reasons he has never been told no.
Blaire Wynn left her small farmhouse in Alabama, after her mother passed away, to move in with her father and his new wife in their sprawling beach house along the Florida gulf coast. She isn’t prepared for the lifestyle change and she knows she’ll never fit into this world. Then there is her sexy stepbrother who her father leaves her with for the summer while he runs off to Paris with his wife. Rush is as spoiled as he is gorgeous. He is also getting under her skin. She knows he is anything but good for her and that he’ll never be faithful to anyone. He is jaded and has secrets Blaire knows she may never uncover but even knowing all of that…
Blaire just may have fallen too far.

GUYS. I haven't read anything by Abbi yet but I SO NEED TO. These New Adult contemporary romances are my guilty pleasures. LIKE HARDCORE. And this one sounds amazing! And that cover is SO summer-y and pretty. And... steamy. ;) Coming out December 2012!

Bev's eagerly anticipating...

He makes good girls...bad.
Dante Walker is flippin’ awesome, and he knows it. His good looks, killer charm, and stellar confidence has made him one of hell’s best—a soul collector. His job is simple, weed through humanity and label those round rears with a big red good or bad stamp. Old Saint Nick gets the good guys, and he gets the fun ones. Bag-and-tag.
Sealing souls is nothing personal. Dante’s an equal opportunity collector and doesn’t want it any other way. But he’ll have to adjust, because Boss Man has given him a new assignment:
Collect Charlie Cooper’s soul within 10 days.
Dante doesn’t know why Boss Man wants Charlie, nor does he care. This assignment means only one thing to him, and that’s a permanent ticket out of hell. But after Dante meets the quirky, Nerd Alert chick he’s come to collect—he realizes this assignment will test his abilities as a collector, and uncover emotions deeply buried.

I've been waiting for this since I saw the cover reveals on all the blogs!  I don't know about you but the guy on the cover is... HOT. And then I read the blurb.  A hot guy who steals souls.  Oh my god, just give me this already!!!! The protagonist is called Dante, for goodness sake! DANTE...

What are you anticipating this week? Link us up!

Happy reading,
Beverley and Jen xxx

REVIEW: Saving June by Hannah Harrington

Name: Saving June

Author: Hannah Harrington

Publisher: Mira Ink

Release date: June 1st 2012

Pages: 336 

Source:  For review from publisher (via Net Galley)

Rating: 5 stars

Your sister is dead. Nineteen songs can tell you why. Only one boy can help you understand.
Harper Scott's older sister, June, took her own life a week before high school graduation, leaving Harper devastated. So when her divorcing parents decide to split up June's ashes, Harper steals the urn and takes off cross-country with her best friend, Laney, to the one place June always dreamed of going-California.
Enter Jake Tolan, a boy with a bad attitude, a classic-rock obsession...and an unknown connection to June. When he insists on joining them, Harper's just desperate enough to let him. With his alternately charming and infuriating demeanour and his belief that music can see you through anything, he might be exactly what Harper needs. Except...Jake's keeping a secret that has the power to turn her life upside down again.

[summary taken from Goodreads]

Beverley's Review

Saving June is an achingly beautiful novel of a girl desperate to piece together the broken fragments of her life.  Her sister's sudden suicide leaves her with an endless list of unanswered questions: Did she really know June?  Could she have stopped it?

The questions and grief and not knowing what to do next lead her to Jake, a mysterious boy whose nature of connection with June is unknown.  With her best friend, Laney, they take off on a summer road-trip in a bid to scatter June's ashes in California, a place she dreamed of visiting before her death.

Saving June is definitely not a light-hearted read, it is heart-wrenching and tear-inducing.  It will take you on an emotional rollercoaster filled with love, loss, friendship and grief.  The best part of the book, for me, was the powerful emotions conveyed in each page.  Hannah Harrington writes sensitively yet realistically and deals with the topic of suicide wonderfully.  Her writing completely overwhelmed me and there were parts where I just felt choked; I was amazed by her ability to describe the pain and angst so vividly.

Therefore, sympathising with the characters wasn't difficult.  Harper is a likeable character with whom I empathised from the start.  I came to understand her grief and how hard life was for her and I wanted so desperately for her to find closure.  Thankfully, she had the most amazing best friend by her side.  Laney is one of those friends people spend their whole lives wishing for.  Her selfless, caring personality filled me with such admiration for her as a person.

The road trip had it highs and lows and they had some pretty crazy encounters.  What I loved was that Jake really grew on me as the journey progressed. Both Harper and I learnt more about him and I came to appreciate his honest, sensitive side.  Unfortunately he didn't make my list of potential book boyfriends but this is only because he's the sort of guy who would make a better friend, someone who will listen and lend you a shoulder to cry on.

Throw in loveable characters, witty narration, a wild road trip and buckets of emotion and you get Saving June.  It has all the elements of an enjoyable read, plus more.  Hannah Harrington has crafted such a heart-breakingly raw story out of something so devastating and life-shattering: a novel which has made my Favourite Contemporaries of the Year list.  Saving June will make you think and most importantly, help you realise that you shouldn't take your loved ones for granted.

5 teacups for Saving June!

*Thanks to Mira Ink for providing me with an e-copy via Netgalley*

Let's Talk About.. Blogging: Back In the Day v.s. Now

It's been nagging me for quite some time now. Many of you know that I actually started book blogging a year ago, but from back then, I've jumped from blog to blog. At the time, blogging was really different. Do not get me wrong, I am in no way stating that I am an "old blogger", or "professional blogger", or that I have tons of experience. I've just noticed a lot of change in the blogging atmosphere. Quite frankly, it scares me a bit.

Do you remember, a year ago, when blogging was all about sharing your love for books with other book nerds? Do you remember the joy and carefree-ness of it all? Is it the same today? Sure, most bloggers still find it extremely fun and they treat it like a hobby. But others, I feel… have unintentionally changed the reason why they started blogging. And that reason is to get advanced reader copies/review copies. People are getting greedy. A year ago, I started blogging because I loved talking about books. And somewhere along the way... honestly, I feel like I've fallen into the trap… to get books. It scares me that I REALIZE I'm blogging to get free books. IT'S TERRIBLE. I must change this.

To be honest, I think at least half of the bloggers out there share my terrible problem. So much drama has happened and people have gotten so demanding that I think it's just CHANGED everyone in some way or another. With more bloggers joining the blogosphere each day, blogs are becoming more competitive. These days, it's all "Bloggers who get the most books for review are the most popular blogs." At least, that's what I think. And then I think, all the little or less-known blogs have to try to live up to that, and people just start gaining followers the wrong way to become that "bigger blog".

Again, the greed. People are just starting to grab as many ARCs as possible and that's just… wrong. Like I said, I've fallen into this very trap. Awhile ago, I got all obsessed in getting review copies, because of wanting to live up to those "bigger blogs". But now, I'm just stressed and it's making blogging not-so-much fun. I've decided for myself that I definitely need to hold off on review copies for awhile.. if you think about it, it is completely disrespectful to the publishers out there who have provided us readers with review copies, and then you just.. don't review them? Yeah, not cool. 

My point is, I think every blogger should just sit down, and think for a minute. How has the book blogging society changed you? Do you need to take a breather and hold off on review copies? What about you bloggers who were around a year ago? Do you think the blogoverse has changed? In what way?

**All opinions are my own.**

HAPPY reading,

Jen xx

REVIEW: Everneath by Brodi Ashton

Name: Everneath

Author: Brodi Ashton

Publisher: HarperCollins/Balzer + Bray

Release Date: January 24, 2012 (US)

Pages: 370, Hardcover

Source: Audiobook Library

Rating: 3 Teacups

"Last spring, Nikki Beckett vanished, sucked into an underworld known as the Everneath. Now she's returned--to her old life, her family, her boyfriend--before she's banished back to the underworld . . . this time forever. She has six months before the Everneath comes to claim her, six months for good-byes she can't find the words for, six months to find redemption, if it exists.
Nikki longs to spend these precious months forgetting the Everneath and trying to reconnect with her boyfriend, Jack, the person most devastated by her disappearance--and the one person she loves more than anything. But there's just one problem: Cole, the smoldering immortal who enticed her to the Everneath in the first place, has followed Nikki home. Cole wants to take over the throne in the underworld and is convinced Nikki is the key to making it happen. And he'll do whatever it takes to bring her back, this time as his queen.
As Nikki's time on the Surface draws to a close and her relationships begin slipping from her grasp, she is forced to make the hardest decision of her life: find a way to cheat fate and remain on the Surface with Jack or return to the Everneath and become Cole's queen."

[summary taken from Goodreads]

Jen's Review

I've always loved learning about Greek mythology, so when I found out that Everneath is based off of the Hades and Persephone myth, I've been excited ever since. Truth be told, Everneath is my first retelling story that I've read about Hades and Persephone! Sadly, however, I found many flaws in the story that I couldn't enjoy much. The characters were flat and boring, and there was that cliché paranormal love triangle aspect going on. The only thing I really enjoyed was the plot and world-building.

THE OH-SO-DREADED LOVE TRIANGLE

You all know what I'm talking about. That love triangle that typically happens in paranormal romance stories. Well, here it shows up in Everneath (I know it's greek mythology, but I'm counting it as paranormal). Guys, I used to like love triangles. I still do. If they're done correctly and not annoyingly. It was pretty aggravating in Everneath, unfortunately. None of the boys were flattering in my opinion, and it just did not work for me.

BORING, AND FLAT AS A PANCAKE

Nothing is worse than characters that aren't entertaining and fun to read about! I couldn't connect to any of them, and there was no spark. I was especially disappointed with Jack--the fact that Brodi Ashton made him a cliché boy. The football player, floppy brown hair… Can we get something new here?  And Nikki was so indecisive that it just ended up annoying me. None of the characters stood out.

AWESOME WORLD

I have to say, the plot and world-building was quite great. The world was very believable for me, and I kept wanting to know more about it. Along with the Everneath world itself, the plot delivered exciting twists. The storyline was able to keep me reading until the end.

All in all, I was quite disappointed with Everneath. I expected a lot more out of it, but didn't get what I wanted. It's decent, but it definitely won't be a memorable read that will stay with me. Although, if you're looking for a greek mythology story, I would still recommend giving this one a try!

Audiobook Review: I definitely suggest reading the book, physically. The audio wasn't my favorite--the narrator sounds a little too robotic and caused the character to sound like she was droning. Acceptable, but it could have been better.

3 teacups for Everneath!

REVIEW: Where Things Come Back by John Corey Whaley

Name: Where Things Come Back

Author: John Corey Whaley

Publisher: Atheneum Books for Young Readers

Release Date: May 3, 2011 (US)

Pages: 228, Hardcover

Source: Library

Rating: 5 Teacups

Just when seventeen-year-old Cullen Witter thinks he understands everything about his small and painfully dull Arkansas town, it all disappears. . . . 
In the summer before Cullen's senior year, a nominally-depressed birdwatcher named John Barling thinks he spots a species of woodpecker thought to be extinct since the 1940s in Lily, Arkansas. His rediscovery of the so-called Lazarus Woodpecker sparks a flurry of press and woodpecker-mania. Soon all the kids are getting woodpecker haircuts and everyone's eating "Lazarus burgers." But as absurd as the town's carnival atmosphere has become, nothing is more startling than the realization that Cullen’s sensitive, gifted fifteen-year-old brother Gabriel has suddenly and inexplicably disappeared. 
While Cullen navigates his way through a summer of finding and losing love, holding his fragile family together, and muddling his way into adulthood, a young missionary in Africa, who has lost his faith, is searching for any semblance of meaning wherever he can find it. As distant as the two stories seem at the start, they are thoughtfully woven ever closer together and through masterful plotting, brought face to face in a surprising and harrowing climax. 
Complex but truly extraordinary, tinged with melancholy and regret, comedy and absurdity, this novel finds wonder in the ordinary and emerges as ultimately hopeful. It's about a lot more than what Cullen calls, “that damn bird.” It’s about the dream of second chances.

[summary taken from Goodreads]

Jen's Review

Where Things Come Back is a touching story about religion, missing brothers, and woodpeckers. Wait, what? Yes, you heard me right. WOOD FREAKING PECKERS.

As mentioned above, Where Things Come Back is quite heavy on the religion. Now, if you've been following me on Twitter for a while now, you probably know that I HATE World History class, and when we were learning about world religions, it was pretty much death for me. When religion was first brought on in the book, all I could think was, "Oh no, here we go AGAIN." But after awhile, I got used to it, and it actually was kind of… nice. The religious aspect part of the story was more there to symbolize hope, I think. It was a nice touch, as well as beautiful.

The story itself is complex and as many little storylines in the story. In Where Things Come Back, the story is told between different point of views, between Cullen Witter, the main character, Benton Sage (a religious boy in Ethiopia), and even Cabot Searcy (arrives later in the novel). All of their stories somehow intertwine and it is quite magical to see it happen. There is even areas in the novel where Cullen takes the reader back to his past.

Where Things Come Back is such a unique story. I mean, have YOU ever read a YA fiction novel with woodpeckers involved? I know I haven't, until now. The aspect of woodpeckers included in the story was totally random, and totally relevant. It's spontaneous, but it makes sense for it to be there. Everything fits and came together very well.

And may I talk about Cullen for a second? I have weird feelings about Cullen. For me, I couldn't really identify a character trait to describe him. It's quite hard. He wasn't full of fun, but he wasn't boring and selfish either. But he was one thing--interesting. He has so many thoughts and ideas and the way he analyzes things is very entertaining to read about.

Lastly, Mr. John Corey Whaley's writing. It was hard to get into at first, because of the complexity I'm not normally used to. But his writing quickly becomes soothing and easy-going. I loved it.

Where Things Come Back earned an abundance of awards for a reason, because it's a breathtaking story that leaves the reader pondering. If you liked Jellicoe Road or The Perks of Being a Wallflower, you'll definitely enjoy this one.

5 Teacups for Where Things Come Back!

Showcase Sunday #7

Showcase Sunday is hosted by the lovely Vicky over at Books, Biscuits, and Tea! It's a great way to share what you have received the past week and to also gush over the wonderful books other bloggers have added to their bookshelves!

Beverley's New Books:

For Review:

Dance of Shadows by Yelena Black: I'm super-duperly happy to be getting a chance to read this 4 months before its release! I love how the proof copy came with a beautiful cover, don't you love it?

Alice in Zombieland by Gena Showalter: Eeeeeee!!!!!!!! So frikkin' excited to read this one!  Some of my favourite bloggers gave it amazing reviews so I can't wait to experience it myself :D

Dash and Lily's Book of Dares by Rachel Cohn and David Levithan: Jen wrote a glowing review on one of Levithan's other books and I've heard many great thing about this so hopefully I'll enjoy it!

Saving June by Hannah Harrington: My first approval on NetGalley! Whoop whoop! I'm currently reading this and I'm absolutely ADORING it :)

Possession by Elana Johnson: This is for a blog tour and both Jen and I will be reviewing it so keep your eyes out for it :D

6 Seconds of Life by Tonya Fitzharris: Another e-book for blog tour review.  Can't wait to read this: it deals with suicide and I'm eager to see how the author deals with such a sensitive matter.  Probably won't be reading this straight after Saving June, huh?

*Many thanks to Bloomsbury, Mira Ink, Harlequin UK, Elana Johnson and Tonya Fitzharris, and the blog tour sites representing them*

Won: 

Divergent and Insurgent by Veronica Roth: Those of you who are close readers of the blog may remember I won a copy of Divergent a while ago.  Well, after that I won another giveaway for Insurgent and it took quite a long time for it to arrive so I'm guessing that's why I got a complimentary copy of Divergent as well.

What's Left of Me by Kat Zhang: OMG!!!!!!!!! I practically squealed when I opened the package to reveal this beauty!!!! I'm so so so so excited to read this since I've been waiting forever for its release!!!!! And I just ADORE the UK cover XD

I probably won't have many books to showcase over the next few weeks as I am stopping requesting/accepting review books. My TBR pile is HUGE right now and the pressure is building up at school so I want to take things slowly.  I'm sure you can all just gush over Jen's hauls ;)

Jen's New Books:

Borrowed:
Stormdancer by Jay Kristoff: I got this one from Netgalley a couple of months ago but I never read it because I heard it's quite difficult to read it as a galley. Unfortunately, I won't be getting to this one because I don't have time. :(

Survive by Alex Morel: I've been eyeing this one for a long time ever since it came out. But again, I won't be getting to this one either. :(

Paranormalcy by Kiersten White: Listening to this one on audio right now, and it's not my favorite.

Shade by Jeri Smith-Ready: So excited to start this on audio soon! Paranormal audios for October FTW!

Shift by Jeri Smith-Ready:  Book 2 oh yes.

Review:
Swipe by Evan Angler: I heard really great things about this one so I'm excited to start this MG dystopian series!

Sneak by Evan Angler: Book 2!

The Wild Ones by M. Leighton: For a tour! I'M SO FREAKING EXCITED TO START THIS ONE!!

Timeless by Michelle Madow: I should probably start this series really soon... -__-

The Madness Underneath by Maureen Johnson: This is the sequel to THE NAME OF THE STAR, which, of course, I have not read. I'm a bad blogger.

**Much thanks to Thomas Nelson, M. Leighton, Michelle Madow, Penguin Book Group, and Netgalley!

Bought (All were Freebies on Amazon) 
Forever Mine by Elizabeth Reyes: Bev just reviewed this one! Click here to read her review. :)

Ethereal by Addison Moore: Apparently this one has movie rights? Sounds interesting!

Sweet Venom by Tera Lynn Childs: Funny, I bought this one the day after Bev interviewed Tera on the blog. :) I've been wanting to read this one for FOREVER.

Dirty Blood by Heather Hildenbrand: I've been eyeing this one for awhile too, but just never got it. Sounds good thought!

Blood of Anteros by Georgia Cates: I've been hearing awesome things about Georgia Cates, so I decided to pick up one of her books!

What did you get this week?

Happy reading,
Beverley and Jen x