Peek into My Mailbox #5

Inspired by The Story Siren's IMM, Peek into My Mailbox allows me to share all the marvellous, bookish goodies I receive in the mail!

Here's what I've received in the past couple of weeks:

Swag:

Revenants by Amy Plum - Won

This is Not a Test by Courtney Summers

Where It Began by Ann Redisch Stampler – Won @ Natsgoldenbooks

My Life Next Door by Huntley Fitzpatrick - My review!

The Golden Lily (Bloodlines, #2) by Richelle Mead

Temptation (Temptation #1) by Karen Ann Hopkins 

Black Heart Blue by Louisa Reid 

I hope your all well and that you have been reading some amazing books. I sure have. And it’s all thanks to John Green and the amazingness that is The Fault in Our Stars, which I am currently reading. Seriously, SO SO SO GOOD. (Whenever possible I slip it into the conversation, see I just did it. HA! Sorry, but TFIOS makes me hypo and crazed… Read it! *shoves in face*) Feel free to link me and I’ll try to swing by! Happy reading J

Review: Pretty Crooked by Elisa Ludwig

Pretty Crooked (Pretty Crooked #1) by Elisa Ludwig
March 13th, 2012 ∙ Katherine Tegen Books

Source: (Author - thank you!)
Format: Hardcover

Page Count: 368

Willa’s secret plan seems all too simple: take from the rich kids at Valley Prep and give to the poor ones.

Yet Willa’s turn as Robin Hood at her ultra-exclusive high school is anything but. Bilking her “friends”-known to everyone as the Glitterati-without them suspecting a thing, is far from easy. Learning how to pick pockets and break into lockers is as difficult as she’d thought it’d be. Delivering care packages to the scholarship girls, who are ostracized just for being from the “wrong” side of town, is way more fun than she’d expected.

The complication Willa didn’t expect, though, is Aidan Murphy, Valley Prep’s most notorious (and gorgeous) ace-degenerate. His mere existence is distracting Willa from what matters most to her-evening the social playing field between the have and have-nots. There’s no time for crushes and flirting with boys, especially conceited and obnoxious trust-funders like Aidan.

But when the cops start investigating the string of burglaries at Valley Prep and the Glitterati begin to seek revenge, could he wind up being the person that Willa trusts most?

Review:

Though it took me a while until I fully immersed into the world of Pretty Crooked, once I did I couldn’t stop reading!

I loved Willa’s voice, style and her big heart and though I didn’t connect with her as much as I would have liked, none the less she is a great character! I didn’t fall head-over-heels for Aiden, which works out well because he is a perfect match for Willa. Tre was an interesting character that I enjoyed getting to know; I hope he reappears in the sequel, Pretty Sly!

Elisa Ludwig has written a splendid debut that I recommend to those looking for a modern, revamped re-telling of Robin Hood or younger YA readers. If you’re on the prowl for a cute, fun, lively read and don’t mind some fluff, this one is sure to hit the spot!

After reading Pretty Crooked (and that intriguing ending) I’m looking forward to see what happens on Willa’s next adventure.

3/5

COVER ALERT: Nobody But Us, Everbound & Mind Games!

Today I came across 3 YA covers which have very recently just been released and thought I’d come share them with you in case you haven’t yet seen them! And here they are…

Nobody But Us Kristin Halbrook - Expected publication: January 29th, 2013
Two teenagers who, in search of a better life, run away to Vegas, but realize they can't run fast enough when they end up wanted by the police, out of money, and out of options, pitched as a YA Bonnie and Clyde.

Everbound (Everneath #2) by Brodi Ashton - Expected publication: January 22nd 2013
Two months ago, the Tunnels of the underworld came for Nikki Beckett. That night, Nikki's boyfriend, Jack, made the ultimate sacrifice. All Nikki wants is to save Jack before it's too late. All Cole wants is to find his queen - and he thinks Nikki is the one. Both determined, both desperate, Nikki and Cole form a tense alliance, leading them on a dangerous journey to The Heart of The Everneath.

Mind Games (Mind Games #1) by Kiersten White - Expected publication: February 19th 2013
In a world where psychics and mind-readers are the ultimate tools in corporate espionage, two teen girls try to save themselves and their future.

Wow, talk about a gorgeous cover overload! Nobody But Us is a road trip so of course I’m sold! Cover wise, it’s not the most fascinating cover but I must say I love the electrifying, bright, bold blue text! After reading Everneath earlier this year and falling in love with it I can’t wait for Everbound! The people who design the covers for the Everneath series deserve an award because not only did they create a gorgeous cover first time round but they’ve succeeded yet again! Isn’t it pretty! :D The cover for Mind Games is certainly intriguing. Plus, I love the colour use!

I’m SUPER eager for all of these titles (and covers), they look so amazing! What about you? What’s your opinion on these covers? Feel free to share :)

P.S - Don't forget to head on over to Brodi Ashton's blog for a chance to win an ARC of Everbound! Eeeeee :D

Review: Divergent by Veronica Roth

Divergent (Divergent #1) by Veronica Roth
January 1st, 2011 ∙ Katherine Tegen Books
Source: Won
Format: ARC
Page Count: 487

In a future Chicago, 16-year-old Beatrice Prior must choose among five predetermined factions to define her identity for the rest of her life, a decision made more difficult when she discovers that she is an anomaly who does not fit into any one group, and that the society she lives in is not perfect after all.

Review:

Where do I even begin? This book is crazy good! Mind = blown.

The characters are fleshed out and real. I loved Tris and her character. She is such an amazing protagonist and the amount of strength and braveness she possesses is incredible. Although at times I wished she had kept her mouth shut as I didn’t want to see her get in trouble, I loved her need to stand up for others. I only wished the absolute best for her. Four is unlike any fictional character I have ever met. I don’t even know how to begin describing him but I would begin by saying that he different yet delightful. *swoon*

I’m not a huge fan of rereading books but I cannot wait to jump back into this story and discover this world all over again.

Veronica Roth must be an alien of some sort (and a very talented one at that!) because that is the only logical reason someone could create such an amazing, cruel, beautiful, raw story.

If you haven’t yet read Divergent (which I’m sure there aren’t many of you) I advise you to grab a copy this instant! You will not be disappointed.

5/5

Peek into My Mailbox #4

Inspired by The Story Siren's IMM, Peek into My Mailbox allows me to share all the marvellous, bookish goodies I receive in the mail!

Here's what I've received in the past 2 weeks:

Won:

Philippa Gregory prize  - I now own 2 copies of Changeling… Apparently The White Queen, The Red Queen and The Lady of the Rivers are all Adult so it looks like mum will be busy reading! ;D Plus, a poster which I just couldn’t be bothered taking a photo of – whoops!

Article 5 - I’m very picky when it comes to Dystopian but this one sounds intriguing, so hopefully I’ll enjoy it! Since Brodie is so fantastic she also chucked in few swagalicous items just for the heck of it and because she’s so sweet! <3)

For Review:

Unravelling by Elizabeth Norris – EEEEEEEEEEE! SUPER excited to start this one, it looks fab!

Deadly Hemlock by Kathleen Peacock – This was a surprise in the mail but I have heard it’s surprisingly good so we’ll see…

(A huge thanks to Brodie @ Eleusinian Mysteries, Read Me. Love Me. Share Me, Harper Collins and Simon & Schuster!)

I hope you’ve had a great week and received some amazing goodies! Any surprises in the mail this week? Feel free to share!

Review: The DUFF by Kody Keplinger

The DUFF by Kody Keplinger
June 7th, 20121 ∙ Little Brown Books for Young Readers
Source: Swapped
Format: Paperback
Page Count: 280

Seventeen-year-old Bianca Piper is cynical and loyal, and she doesn't think she's the prettiest of her friends by a long shot. She's also way too smart to fall for the charms of man-slut and slimy school hottie Wesley Rush. In fact, Bianca hates him. And when he nicknames her "Duffy," she throws her Coke in his face.

But things aren't so great at home right now, and Bianca is desperate for a distraction. She ends up kissing Wesley. Worse, she likes it. Eager for escape, Bianca throws herself into a closeted enemies-with-benefits relationship with him.

Until it all goes horribly awry. It turns out Wesley isn't such a bad listener, and his life is pretty screwed up, too. Suddenly Bianca realizes with absolute horror that she's falling for the guy she thought she hated more than anyone.

Review:

Oh my lovely. This book is good!

Not only is this a debut, but Kody Keplinger wrote this when she was only 16. SIXTEEN! Age doesn’t always matter, but that is just incredible. I’ll be 16 in a year and I cannot imagine writing a book. But Kody didn’t just write a book, she wrote a successful and brilliant one that has even won an award! And it completely deserves it.

Oh and the kissing scenes. Wow, pure bliss. More please! *melts*

Bianca is snarky, sarcastic, sassy and stubborn, and I completely related to her. Not only is she a fantastic protagonist but she is, in a word, real. Although Wesley Rush is a womaniser this didn’t stop me from swooning my head off. You know the type - arrogant, pigheaded, slap worthy - yet utterly attractive and charming. Yet as were introduced to his life and the real Wesley we find out there’s more to him than meets the eye.

I previously read Shut Out and although I loved and enjoyed it, The DUFF completely blew me off my feet.

Before this book I had never heard the term 'The Duff' (Designated Ugly Fat Friend) used, but apparently it is out there and has been for a while now. Though this was the first time I'd come across this term, the concept is certainly familiar and I applaud Kody for the way she tackled the issue of labels - something people so easily brand us with - and the effects they can have.

I wholeheartedly recommend The DUFF. It’s contemporary at its best!

5/5

Review: Second Chance Summer by Matson Morgan

Second Chance Summer by Matson Morgan

May 8th, 2012 ∙ Simon & Schuster
Source: Purchased
Format: Hardcover
Page Count: 488

Taylor’s family might not be the closest-knit –everyone is a little too busy and overscheduled – but for the most part, they get along fine. Then they get news that changes everything: Her father has pancreatic cancer, and it’s stage four – meaning that there is basically nothing to be done. Her parents decide that the family will spend his last months together at their old summerhouse in the Pocono Mountains.

Crammed into a place much smaller and more rustic than they are used to, they begin to get to know each other again. And Taylor discovers that the people she thought she had left behind haven’t actually gone anywhere. Her former summer best friend is suddenly around, as is her first boyfriend. . . and he’s much cuter at seventeen than he was at twelve.

As the summer progresses, the Edwards become more of a family, and closer than they’ve ever been before. But all of them very aware that they’re battling a ticking clock. Sometimes, though, there is just enough time to get a second chance – with family, with friends, and with love.

Review:

Since reading Amy and Roger’s Epic Detour last year (which by the way was epic!) I’ve been eagerly anticipating Morgan Matson’s next book, so when I heard about Second Chance Summer I freaked! But the question is…did it impress? It certainly did.

Morgan Matson, you are amazing. Whatever you write, not only will I read but the second it’s released I will be running to the nearest book shop, so I can have your hot-off-the-press book in my hands ready to devour the second I get home.

Although I felt for Taylor and what she was going through, I didn't connect with her as much as I would have liked. She was still an awesome character though and so strong. Lucy is lovely, fun, a great friend and overall a wonderful character that I enjoyed getting to know. Henry isn’t your usual YA male interest and I loved that. Not only is he sweet and understanding, but the guy can bake!

A heartbreaking yet beautiful tale that makes you think about your time here on earth and how you should live each moment as if it was your last. It reinforces the fact that you should never take things for granted, no matter how miniscule it may seem, such as a sunrise. I’ll do that then. I’ll do that when. That can wait a bit longer, I’ve got the time. But to be honest, you never know what’s around the corner. Things change and things can change fast, in Taylor’s case it only took 3 weeks for her world to be turned upside down.

A truly, remarkable read.

5/5

P.S - Oh and I suggest you stock up on tissues as I guarantee that tears will be shed. I would know, I cried like a baby.

Peek into My Mailbox #3

Inspired by The Story Siren's IMM, Peek into My Mailbox allows me to share all the marvellous, bookish goodies I receive in the mail!

The Immortal Rules by Julie Kagawa – Won

A Midsummer’s Nightmare by Kody Keplinger

In Honor by Jessi Kirby

The Dark Light Swag: poster, stickers, bookmark, wristbands – Won

 (A huge thanks to Cass @ Words on Paper and Sarah Walsh!)

Super excited to get reading, especially the contemporary’s which I’ve been dying to read since I first heard about them! Excited :D

Hope you had a great week! And while you’re here don’t forget to enter the current giveaway I’m running to win a copy of My Life Next Door! Be quick, ends June 5th!

Series Overview: Vampire Academy by Richelle Mead (contains spoilers!)

WARNING: Unless you’ve read the entire series do not continue on! Beware, spoilers lie ahead!

I remember when I first picked up Vampire Academy. It was getting late and I had a headache and I didn’t know what to do with myself, but I did know I wanted to read and get lost in a good book. So I decided upon Vampire Academy and here I am, 6 books later, a crazy, fanatic fan!

Books I'm Wishing For: June Edition!

With so many wonderful books coming out in 2012, I thought why not highlight all the books that I’m excited for each month!

Here are the books I’m wishing for this month:

This Is Not a Test by Courtney Summers – Though the premise sounds amazing I was a bit hesitant at first when I heard it was a zombie book but then I read my Reynje’s EPIC review and I was completely sold! J

A Midsummer's Nightmare by Kody Keplinger – Read Shut Out a few months back and LOVED it. I’m currently reading The DUFF and it is brilliant! Can’t wait to start A Midsummer’s Nightmare, so excited to sink my teeth into it! :D

Something Like Normal by Trish Doller – Finally, I’ve been eagerly anticipating this for ages! YAYAY :D

My Life in Black and White by Natasha Friend – The premise sounds interesting and the reviews sound great!

Tokyo Heist by Diana Renn – This sounds like such a fun, intriguing, mysterious read! I’m looking forward to reading it :)

Miracle by Elizabeth Scott – I’ve read a few books by this author and enjoyed them, plus the premise sounds really good!

Reunited by Hilary Weisman Graham – Road trip + fun + concert + awkward times + a funny squirrel scene? Yes, please!

May releases I’ve read and completely recommend:

My Life Next Door by Huntley Fitzpatrick – This book is beautiful, such an amazing contemporary! Fantastic characters and a swoony, sweet romance, I completely recommend it! Read my review here!

Plus don’t forget to check out the author interview with Huntley, plus the giveaway I’m currently hosting to win a copy of My Life Next Door! Click here to be transported to the awesomess overload!

What are you looking forward this month? Spill!