Shooting Stars Mag

2010 Challenge that Dare Not Speak Its Name

2009-11-28T23:14:00.004-05:00

I've never actually signed up for a book challenge before but I figured it was about time so I decided to do the GLBT Reading Challenge. I'll post the brief rules below as well as the link so you can sign up/find out more...prizes involved!! I don't have a final list of books to read (I'm sure they will change as the year goes on) but I am hoping to do the Rainbow Level (12 or more books).

http://glbt-reading.blogspot.com/2009/11/glbt-challenge-2010.html

Rules/Guidelines:

The basic idea of this challenge is to read books about GLBT topics and/or by GLBT authors.

The challenge runs year-round, and there will be three levels of participation:

Lambda Level: Read 4 books.
Pink Triangle Level: Read 8 books.
Rainbow Level: Read 12 or more books.

The Dark Divine Winner(s)

2009-11-23T23:53:00.003-05:00

(there's the picture!)

Thanks so much for all the entries! There were some amazing picks! A lot of you picked more than one person--totally don't blame you--and there were a lot of repeats, which wasn't surprising. Some of you had unique options, and a few of you said you wanted your own street team--which is fine, and I never thought about it! I wish I had enough copies for all of you, but I don't. I would have put my copy in there, but its personalized to me, so I doubt you want it (plus I don't think I could part with it).

The winner is ParaJunkee!!!! Congrats!!!

The winners of the swag are:
----
Jo
Liyana
Just Blinded Book Reviews
Cynthia
Jessy
Travis
Jenny N
carmen alexis
Jenn M
--and--
ali

Congrats guys!!! Hope you enjoy your pretty swag--also, I'm pretty sure there are some international winners in there!!!

All winners should email me at: moviefanatic1911@yahoo.com (ParaJunkee you have 2 days to reply, and if you don't I pick a new winner!)

-Alicia

p.s. my next contest should be up soon and it *might* be international...

Review: The Everafter by Amy Huntley

2009-11-23T20:20:00.005-05:00

Title: The Everafter

Author: Amy Huntley

Publisher: Balzer + Bray

Format: ARC

From: Publisher

Pgs: 256

Release Date: Out Now

Review By: Alicia

Summary:

Madison Stanton doesn't know where she is or how she got there. But she does know this--she is dead. And alone, in a vast, dark space. The only company she has in this place are luminescent objects that turn out to be all the things Maddy lost while she was alive. And soon she discovers that with these artifacts, she can re-experience--and sometimes even change--moments from her life.

Her first kiss.

A trip to Disney World.

Her sister's wedding.

A disastrous sleepover.

In reliving these moments, Maddy learns illuminating and sometimes frightening truths about her life--and death.

Review:

Another phenomenal debut that I adored. Honestly, this book was so amazing. I have no idea how Huntley was able to write this book.

This book was written in an interesting way. At the beginning I was confused, but I knew that I was supposed to be. The whole book was written in a way that, as Maddy was figuring things out, you were too, which I absolutely loved.

I really loved Maddy and Gabe's relationship--it was very realistic. Their relationship was not perfect, which I appreciated, because no relationship is perfect. Plus Gabe was another fab YA boy.

Maddy's memories were really interesting, and the way she "found/remembered" them. She would find items and then become sucked into the memories that went with them. Plus I really liked how she was stuck in the "is" place.

The ending really shocked me, and I don't mean the end-of-the-book-ending, I mean the-way-she-died-ending. I most definitely did not see the way she died coming and was completely surprised by it. As for the end of the book, I loved it! It wasn't necessarily a happily ever after, but there was happiness and it ended on a hopeful note.

Cover: I like that it is purple (my favorite color) and I love the flowers they chose. It seems simple and I like that.

Overall: 5/5

Pay it Forward WAS a Book: Next Auction!

2009-11-23T20:00:00.001-05:00

Pay it Forward by Catherine Ryan Hyde (YES, it was a book before it became a movie!!) is up for auction right now at Leave a Mark. You can keep bidding until November 29 but get moving! You know you want this one. It's a classic. :)

LINK:

http://leaveamarkauctions.blogspot.com/2009/11/auction-6-pay-it-forward-by-catherine.html

Review: Jasmyn by Alex Bell (Amazing!)

2009-11-22T15:57:00.004-05:00

Jasmyn by Alex Bell

Review by: Lauren

Website: http://www.alex-bell.co.uk/

Summary:

One day, without warning, Jasmyn’s husband died of an aneurysm.

Since then, everything has been different. Wrapped up in her grief, Jasmyn is trapped in a world without colour, without flavour – without Liam. But even through the haze of misery she begins to notice strange events. Even with Liam gone, things are not as they should be, and eventually Jasmyn begins to explore the mysteries that have sprung up after her husband’s death… and follow their trail back into the events of his life.

But the mysteries are deeper than Jasmyn expects, and are leading her in unexpected directions – into fairytales filled with swans, castles and bones; into a tale of a murder committed by a lake and a vicious battle between brothers; into a story of a lost past, and a stolen love. She’s entering a magical story.

Jasmyn’s story.

Review:

This review is long overdue (once again) but it's an amazing book that should be read by many. It's targeted to adults but it's just fine for young adults, in my honest opinion. This is a mix of fairy tale, mystery, romance, and immense surprises. Unlike other fairy tale books, this one isn't really a re-telling. It plays on a particular one, but it has its own story which is great.

Alex Bell is a phenomenal writer. She drags you into this world and makes you believe, makes you feel for these characters she has created. I will definitely be checking out some more of her work in the future.

I don't want to say too much about the book as there isn't a ton given away in the summary and I think it's good that way. You will definitely be thrown for some twists and turns while reading. Close to the end was particulary shocking for me, but just made this book all the more exciting!

Read.This.Book. It's phenomenal. Believe me.

And the cover is gorgeous!

Getting To Know...Me!!!

2009-11-20T16:53:00.002-05:00

I know you are just dying to learn more about me...haha...but hopefully you will go and check me out at Sarah Ockler's blog for Flip it Friday, all about the author interviewing a book blogger.

My Link: http://sarahockler.com/2009/11/20/flip-it-friday-lauren-shooting-stars-mag/#comments

By the way, since Sarah called me out on it, Philosophy and Sexuality was an amazing class that I really loved. It was very interesting and I recommend looking into it if you have one at your college (though of course you won't have my professor, which is a bit sad!)

Calling All 2010 Authors!!

2009-11-18T13:35:00.001-05:00

I am calling all 2010 authors!! I'm thinking mostly along the lines of Young Adult, but it can be Middle Grade or Adult books too if you think Young Adult readers would enjoy them as well.

I can't say WHY I'm looking for these authors/books, but believe me, it'll be a lot of fun when you find out. So if you know of some authors, please tell them to contact me if they want to be part of a big promo event in December (yes, I know the timing is soon...) of if you're a 2010 author yourself, get in touch ASAP!

It's easiest if you email here: lauren51990 AT aol DOT com

I'd really appreciate it, so thanks in advance! And you can write, find out what's going on, and decide not to participate. It's totally fine!!

Willow by Julia Hoban + EXTRA Giveaway Entries

2009-11-18T12:35:00.002-05:00

For all of you Willow fans, you don't want to miss this. Check it out and spread the word:

http://leaveamarkauctions.blogspot.com/2009/11/auction-5-willow-by-julia-hoban.html

PLUS, every time you bid on a marked up book you can get FIVE extra entries into giveaways. Stick them all in one or break them up...and that's each time you bid, so you can bid more than once on one book and gets lot of entries for giveaways on here. You can't beat that, right?

Twilight Giveaway: Become Jane!

2009-11-17T20:02:00.005-05:00

My Magic Me's Twilight Giveaway

My Magic Me Main Site

Want to be turned into Jane from the Twilight films? It just so happens you can now become a part of the Volturi...if only in pictures.

I finally got the picture to post above but you can see more here:

http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=32999915

My Magic Me is a great etsy shop full of fun things if you want to get another picture altered...zombies, fairies, and more! It's such fun so definitely give her a look. The prices aren't too bad either. Remember though: she won't print them and mail them. You simply get sent the photo and you can do what you want with it then.

Giveaway-

Prize: One Volturi Photo (you need to submit a photo if you win)

Open To: International!

Ends: November 20 (the day New Moon is released of course!)

To Enter: What else do you love about the My Magic Me site?

Extra:

+1 follow (leave a new comment)

+1 post somewhere about this (leave a new comment)

Gifts in 24 + Great Holiday Giveaway

2009-11-16T13:47:00.004-05:00

Gifts in 24 Review + Giveaway

Review by: Lauren

Link: http://www.giftsin24.com/

Review:

I was lucky to recieve a few differnt items to review and I honestly loved them all. One such items was the Mr. and Mrs. Wedding laser frame.

I had this particular item personalized for a family friend who just had her wedding. She really loved it and I heard she was even gushing about it when I wasn't around. I, personally, really liked it as well and think it would make a great gift for those who will be married in the future. I know I'd like to have something like it in the future for my own home. It's beautiful and mongramed to fit you and your spouse. Everyone can use a frame and who doesn't love when something fits exactly who they are?

I also got some simple note cards with envelopes. It has a pink border with the recipients name on the front of the card. The note cards have their address on the back as well so all they need to do is right out who the card is for and voila! They are ready to go. I got this item for my sister-in-law because my brother will be entering the army in the new year and through the mail is the only way they can talk to each other for awhile. It's cute and necessary, plus she loves the color pink!!

Finally, we got a nice clear holder with some notes inside. Each page is good for writing something down while on the phone or leaving a quick note for yourself or someone else. It's practical and cute. It can go by the phone, in your office, or like my family, right in the living room. Our last name is on the top as would yours so it would read "The (last name) Family" and then all the way around it (except for the very bottom) our everyone in the family's first names. I put my parents, mine, and my sister's as we are the ones living at home right now. You have a few color choices but I went with green as it's a neutral enough color. My mom absolutely loved this when it first arrived. It's very handy and a great gift for those that have everything or a big family or just to give someone something cute and thoughtful.

Overall, this is a great new site that you should definitely check out. The holidays are fast approaching and I'm sure you can find at least one item for someone on your list at Gifts in 24, so be sure to check it out. For now, enter the giveaway and maybe win a couple awesome items!

Giveaway-

To Enter: Go to the site and let me know what item or items you like!

Prize: Couples Monogram Note $49.95 retail value and also a Couples 7-Tablet set $34.95 retail value with your own personalization.

Links: http://www.giftsin24.com/personalized-stationery/Couples-Monogram-Note

http://www.giftsin24.com/personalized-stationery/Couples-7-Tablet-Set-with-Holder

Open to: U.S. only I'm afraid!

Ends: November 30

Extra-

+1 if you follow (leave a new comment saying this)

+1 for any giveaway you enter on this site during the run of this (leave a new comment for each one)

The Dark Divine: Street Team/Contest

2009-11-12T01:58:00.003-05:00

Hey guys, Alicia here!

Today I want to tell you all about an absolutely fabulous book by an amazing new author, The Dark Divine by Bree Despain.

If you all remember, I actually met Bree at the tenner/blogger lunch I went to in August (link here). I have also talked to Bree numerous times, and when I found out she was making a street team, I jumped. So I am proud to say that I am one of the members of The Divine Underground, aka: The Dark Divine Street Team!

As a member of the street team, it is my job to promote the book in any way possible, which I am doing now! :) I also have a ton of swag to give away, and I received an ARC and soundtrack. Now, I got my own pretty, personalized ARC a long time ago--(which I loved) and Bree was nice enough to send me one after we met--so, I thought I'd give this one away to one of you guys!

First of all though, you should visit Bree's website and blog. Oh, and talk to her on twitter! She is very nice! There is also an amazing soundtrack to the book that you should check out!

Here's the official synopsis:

A prodigal son

A dangerous love

A deadly secret...

I stood back and watched his movements. Daniel had that way about him that could shut me down in an instant...I kicked the gravel a couple of times and worked up my courage again. "Tell me...I mean...why did you come back? Why now, after all this time?"

Grace Divine, daughter of the local pastor, always knew something terrible happened the night Daniel Kalbi disappeared--the night she found her brother Jude collapsed on the porch, covered in blood. But she has no idea what a truly monstrous secret that night really held. And when Daniel returns three years later, Grace can no longer deny her attraction to him, despite promising Jude she'll stay away.

As Grace gets closer to Daniel, her actions stir the ancient evil Daniel unleashed that horrific night. Grace must discover the truth behind Jude and Daniel's dark secret...and the cure that can save the ones she loves. But she may have to lay down the ultimate sacrifice to do it--her soul.

---

Sounds good, right? Well, it is! Which is why you should enter the contest and check out the first chapter here!

CONTEST TIME!!!!

Prize: One lucky winner will receive a signed ARC of The Dark Divine, bookmarks, stickers, the soundtrack, and The Dark Divine nail polish!**

Deadline: Ends on November 21

Open to: US only! Sorry! I *might* send swag out overseas, so leave a comment if you're not in the US.

To enter: Simply leave a comment saying which author/book's street team *you* would like to be on--it may or may not exist. (Be sure to leave your email address! Not sure if I'll email the winner or make a post, so check back on Nov 22 to see if you won.)

**If over 20 people enter, a few random people will get some TDD swag!

Good luck guys! Oh, and would you like me to post a picture of the prize?

-Alicia

RENT Live: Read My Review

2009-11-09T20:14:00.003-05:00

"It's right that today's Halloween. It was Angel's favorite holiday."

If you know the play or even saw the movie version of RENT, I hope that quote stands out to you. I use it because I went and saw RENT live on Halloween for the third time and it was just as amazing as always.

It even had Broadway's original Mark and Roger, played by Anthony Rapp and Adam Pascal (that's them in the picture above...in that order if you don't know!).

My full review, however, is here:

http://www.eventchaser.com/2009/11/rent-at-procter-and-gamble-hall-at-aronoff-center-in-cincinnati-ohio/

Check it out and leave a comment there if you read it!! I'd really appreciate it and be sure to see the play if you can. Totally worth it.

Want a Marked Up Copy of If I Stay?!

2009-11-09T14:45:00.003-05:00

The next auction over at Leave a Mark is for the YA hit If I Stay by Gayle Forman. You know you want this one. It'll be a one-of-a-kind collector's item some day...I can see it, oh yeah!

Just go here and start bidding: http://leaveamarkauctions.blogspot.com/2009/11/auction-4-if-i-stay-by-gayle-forman.html

I will love you for life if you spread the word on your blogs too. Pleaseee?

(Review) The Demon's Lexicon by Sarah Rees Brennan

2009-11-07T15:41:00.004-05:00

The Demon's Lexicon by Sarah Rees Brennan
Review by: Lauren

Summary from Amazon:

Nick and his brother, Alan, have spent their lives on the run from magic. Their father was murdered, and their mother was driven mad by magicians and the demons who give them power.

The magicians are hunting the Ryves family for a charm that Nick's mother stole -- a charm that keeps her alive -- and they want it badly enough to kill again.

Danger draws even closer when a brother and sister come to the Ryves family for help. The boy wears a demon's mark, a sign of death that almost nothing can erase...and when Alan also gets marked by a demon, Nick is des-perate to save him. The only way to do that is to kill one of the magicians they have been hiding from for so long.

Ensnared in a deadly game of cat and mouse, Nick starts to suspect that his brother is telling him lie after lie about their past. As the magicians' Circle closes in on their family, Nick uncovers the secret that could destroy them all.

This is the Demon's Lexicon. Turn the page.

Review:

I am a horrible person. I recieved this book to review quite awhile ago and I actually read it fairly fast, so why didn't I do a review long before now? Well, that's why I'm a horrible person. I just kept forgetting to get this posted so I want to apologize to Sarah for that and it's not because I hated the book by any means.

Actually, I really loved this story. It was very readable and the characters all came alive for me, making me feel as if they were real. The main ones I connected with were the two brothers, Nick and Alan, because they are so complex and interesting. Though they are vastly different, they are there for each other and will do anything to make sure the other one is safe and alright.

Secrets begin to weigh on their relationship though and Nick suddenly isn't so sure who he can trust and he resents Alan for keeping him in the dark...but in the end, is it for his own good or is their brotherly bond going to be a continuous state of disrepair?

It's an imaginative book that is sure to please both genders and it gives you realistic characters in a unique story. The Demon's Lexicon had me flipping these pages as fast as I could until I reached the end...and then I simply wanted more! You'll definitely be surprised by some of the twists and turns throughout this novel so pick up a copy this holiday season for you or someone you know.

Want to Win It?

2009-11-04T11:54:00.002-05:00

Well, do you? I'm afraid you're going to have to work for it...and that involves money, HOWEVER it's worth it! All the money you bid for this book, if you win, will go to the charity First Book.

Jeri Smith-Ready is super awesome that she's even going to throw in a NON-marked up copy of Wicked Game if you don't already own this so that you get the regular book to read as well as a behind-the-scenes "collector's item" of a copy. Sounds awesome, doesn't it?

Go and check it out: http://www.leaveamarkauctions.blogspot.com/

Guest Post from the author of Jesse's Girl

2009-11-03T20:58:00.003-05:00

THE BLANK PAGE – AND OTHER HORRORS
By Gary Morgenstein/Jesse’s Girl

There is nothing more terrifying to a writer than facing the blank page. Yet every day, a writer confronts the Herculean task of translating ethereal thoughts and vague characters and hazy scenes into something coherent.

But what you hear in your head in that parallel universe where writers stumble around, often bears little resemblance to the brick and mortar world of creating a novel that real human beings who don’t share your consciousness would understand.

When I started Jesse’s Girl, I only knew that the novel would begin in the middle of the night with a phone call. The main character, Teddy Mentor, learns that his 16-year-old son Jesse has run away from a drug treatment wilderness program in Montana. Then I was off to the races. Not only did I have a blank page, in parts, I had a blank mind.

I’d gone into the book with the pre-conceived notion that it’d be a small novel focusing primarily on the father-son relationship, hooking around the adopted teenager’s battle with alcohol and search for his biological roots. Yeah, and what about something called plot and character development? For me, the ultimate moment for Jesse’s Girl was when a transformative crime hit the page, carrying my characters along in a tsunami-like nail-biting thriller.

I didn’t realize that at the time because every day I thought I knew what I was going to write. Writers practice delusions as a way of motivating themselves. Even when you’re about to scribble rubbish, you tell yourself, at least it is something! Ah, for the good old days when you could therapeutically yank paper out of the typewriter and hurl the crumpled ball across the room.

A trick I learned is keeping a little something in the gas tank from the previous day. Don’t write yourself into exhaustion. Even if you begin with a paragraph, sometimes that’s enough to give you the momentum. It’s like pushing a car in neutral down a hill. Then you have to jump in and grab the writing wheel. Without a seat belt.

I always thought it’d be wonderful to have a gizmo hooked up into your thoughts where it would write the book exactly as you see it. Maybe if I’m reincarnated in the 24th Century.

About the Author-

Novelist/playwright Gary Morgenstein is the author of four novels. In addition to Jesse’s Girl, a thriller about a widowed father’s search for his adopted teenage son who has run away from a drug treatment program to find his biological sister, his books include the romantic triangle Loving Rabbi Thalia Kleinman, the political thriller Take Me Out to the Ballgame, and the baseball Rocky The Man Who Wanted to Play Center Field for the New York Yankees. His play Ponzi Man performed to sell-out crowds at the New York Fringe Festival. Morgenstein’s other full-length work, You Can’t Grow Tomatoes in the Bronx, is in development. He can be reached at www.facebook.com/people/Gary-Morgenstein/1011217889.

I Want You Back: Hilarious AND Free!

2009-10-30T14:10:00.002-04:00

The author of Never Slow Dance with a Zombie, E. Van Lowe has a great way new book coming out and it's FREE. I'm not really original, so I copied and pasted what he had posted on his own blog to let you know what this is all about:

My big announcement at Saturday's Never Slow Dance With A Zombie Fest was about my newest work. It's a funny, thrilling paranormal YA novella called I Want You Back!

I Want You Back! is a free e- chapter book (with illustrations) available to my fans. The illustrations are being done by my good friend, artist, Tatiana.
If you'd like to get in on this FREE e-book all you have to do is subscribe to my website. Just go to http://www.evanlowe.com click the subscribe button and follow the instructions. I promise your info will not wind up on somebodies mailing list. I'm keeping your info safe. Once you subscribe, each new chapter (10 or more, I'm still writing) will be sent to you via email every time a new chapter is available. One to two chapters per week. This is my way of paying back my friends and fans for your support, and hopefully getting those of you who haven't read me yet to read me. Tatiana and I are very excited about this new project.

Here's the opening from the book:

To begin with, I’m not a nice girl. Don’t get me wrong, I used to be a nice girl. I used to be kind, and helpful, considerate and thoughtful. The kind of girl who went to all of her boyfriend’s games, even though she hates basketball; the kind of girl who helped her boyfriend study for his English final while she should have been studying for her own calculus final—and maybe she would have done better than that C; the kind of girl the boys at school lovingly call, oh, what’s that cute little name they have for us again? Oh, yes—Doormat.

Doesn't that sound like a fun opening? I Want You Back! is the story of 16 year-old Emy Grant, who uses magic to ensnare the boy of her dreams. We're trying to have it ready in late December so you'll have it to read during the holidays. More announcements will be coming in the next few weeks.

So there you are! I really do think this sounds very cute, and the opening had me laughing the first time I read it so go and sign up. Books are expensive; why not do yourself a favor??

White Collar Pilot Review + Extra Entry

2009-10-30T13:32:00.004-04:00

White Collar Pilot Episode Review
By: Lauren

Summary (taken from http://www.tv.com)-

FBI Agent Peter Burke takes an unconventional route in tracking down a ruthless and devious outlaw named "Dutchman". In order to catch the counterfeiter, he employs the help of incarcerated con man, Neal Caffrey.

Review-

White Collar is the newest show on the USA network and it definitely seems to be a hit in my book. Yes, I know it's only had one episode, but the teamwork between Matt Bomer as Neal Caffrey and Tim Dekay who plays Agent Peter Burke is great. They work well with each other, giving this show an instant likeability.

As you can see from the summary, this is a lot like a TV version of the film Catch Me if You Can, but more like the post version as Neal has already been captured and put in jail. Now what happens?

I like the mix of humor, mystery, romance, and friendship that seems to permeate all USA shows. I've heard someone say that it's not very realistic, but I think most shows are not that realistic. You have to suspend reality a little bit when you are dealing with entertainment. Just sit back, relax, and see if you can enjoy the show.

The second episode of White Collar will air tonight at 10/9c on USA Network right after Monk. If you missed the pilot episode, you can check it out here:

http://www.usanetwork.com/series/whitecollar/video/fullep/

What do you all think? And remember, if you comment here and then let me know in the White Collar contest thread (over in the left hand sidebar) you will get an extra entry.

Discuss + Experiment: Can Bloggers Make a Difference?

2009-10-29T15:31:00.003-04:00

Discussion for Book Bloggers (Authors too if you wish)

Do you think that book bloggers can really, truly make a difference in a book's sales? Don't get me wrong. I think we can help spread the word and get people buying but what about behyond that? Can we get them a lot more sales? Could we, crazily enough, get them on the New York Times Bestsellers' List?!

I would love to think we could if we really put our minds to it. I know that a lot of us try and come up with ways to spread the word about books we love or authors we want to do well, but it's kind of hard if there are so many of these from various bloggers. And in the end, not all of them will generate a lot of sales.

My main idea with this post is to get your thoughts, but to also let you know about an idea I had. What if we all chose ONE book in 2010 to really pimp out?

Now, I know we would still interview other authors and review other books and I want all of those to do well of course but I want to see if bloggers really can make a difference if we all narrow a list down and honestly just PIMP THAT ONE BOOK OUT. It can be a new author, it can be an older author that deserves more help in promotion. It doesn't matter. But what do you all think? If you all seem to like the idea, I'd love to get ideas in the comments of books you'd like to help in the newe year. I'll try and narrow it down to who gets the most "votes" if you will and then we'll go from there.

I think we can make a difference, so why don't we try?

I left a comment but instead of leaving ANOTHER one, I thought I'd add it to the main post so people see this. I do like Mandy's idea of promoting a book that will give back to charity so that we can experiment with this idea but it also doesn't matter if you like the book in the end, it doesn't matter if you don't normally read that type of book, because the experiment can work around a charity. Her thoughts were that some books give proceeds of their sales to a charity and if we found a book that did that in 2010, we can promote the book based on it summary and THIS component so buying the book helps not only the author and gives us an experiment, but it also helps out a charity b/c the more sales the book gets, the more money goes to that charity. Do we know of any books like this? Authors, are you going to donate proceeds somewhere?

I have one idea right now. Hunger by Jackie Morse Kessler will be out in Fall 2010 and some of her proceeds will benefit the National Eating Disorders Association. I think we can all agree this is a great cause for an important issue, regardless of what people think of the book in the end. After all, spreading the word tells you ABOUT a book, not that you will personally like it, but you might...so try it out!

Waiting on Wednesday: How Beautiful the Ordinary

2009-10-28T12:24:00.003-04:00

How Beautiful the Ordinary
Twelve Stories of Identity

By Michael Cart, Francesca Lia Block, David Levithan, Ron Koertge, Eric Shanower, Julie Anne Peters, Jennifer Finney Boylan, William Sleater

Apparently this is out now, though I thought it wasn't out until December!

Summary from Amazon:

A girl thought to be a boy steals her sister's skirt, while a boy thought to be a girl refuses to wear a cornflower blue dress. One boy's love of a soldier leads to the death of a stranger. The present takes a bittersweet journey into the past when a man revisits the summer school where he had "an accidental romance." And a forgotten mother writes a poignant letter to the teenage daughter she hasn't seen for fourteen years.

Poised between the past and the future are the stories of now. In nontraditional narratives, short stories, and brief graphics, tales of anticipation and regret, eagerness and confusion present distinctively modern views of love, sexuality, and gender identification. Together, they reflect the vibrant possibilities available for young people learning to love others—and themselves—in today's multifaceted and quickly changing world.

Why I Want to Read!

by: Lauren

It's a collection of short stories for one and that's always great when I'm swamped with reading but really want to try something new. I also love anything that deals with GLBT fiction and I'm excited to see what all these authors have included in the book. What do you all think? Has anyone read this yet? I don't remember seeing it on a blog anywhere...

Oh, and does anyone know of any upcoming GLBT books that are coming out at the end of the year or in 2010?!

(Alicia Reviews) Hush Hush by Becca Fitzpatrick

2009-10-27T22:48:00.002-04:00

Title: Hush, Hush
Author: Becca Fitzpatrick
Publisher: Simon & Schuster
Format: ARC
From: Publisher
Release Date: Out Now
Pgs: 400
Review by: Alicia

Summary (from ARC):

Nora Grey is responsible and smart and not inclined to be reckless. Her first mistake was falling for Patch. Patch has a past that could be called anything but harmless. The best thing he ever did was fall for Nora.

After getting paired with Patch in biology, all Nora wants to do is stay away from him, but he always seems to be two steps ahead of her. She can feel his eyes on her even when he is nowhere around. She feels him nearby even when she is alone in her bedroom. And when her attraction can be denied no longer, she learns the secret about who Patch is and what led him to her. Despite all the questions she has about his past, in the end, there may be only one question they can ask each other: How far are you willing to fall?

Review:

One word: PATCH!!!!

This book was phenomenal and most defiantly one of my favorite books. I had a feeling I would like it, I just didn’t know I would become obsessed with it. Yes, you read that right, I am obsessed.

This book was definitely unpredictable and kept you guessing until the end. It was one of those books where everything is not what it seems to be. Patch was not what he seemed, the same with the bad guy and basically everything else. There were a lot of plot twists too. The last 100 pages were pretty intense. I recommend you do nothing but read when you get to that point.

I found Nora to be another relatable character. While she was attracted to Patch, she was also weary and cautious of him the whole time.

Patch is the ultimate bad boy. You never knew if he was the hero or the villain. He would go from one thing to another. Nora was never sure what to think of him, and I was the same way. Also, he was super hot!

I loved all of the info about the angels. I found it incredibly interesting. Also, I love the idea of a “fallen angel” book. Angels and demons have always fascinated me, so I was all over this book.

This book was hot, sexy, intriguing, and…hot. Another book that has a sequel I am counting down the days to.

Cover comments: freaking gorgeous! The cover is hot. One of the best covers ever. Also I love that the feathers are changing color and falling off.

Overall: 5/5

One-of-a-Kind Copy of Wings by Aprilynne Pike

2009-10-27T22:37:00.004-04:00

The holidays are fast approaching and some people still have birthdays to celebrate before then too, so you know you want an awesome, unique, gift right? What about one that is COMPLETELY ONE OF A KIND? Yeah, sounds good, huh? Well, you can now go and bid on a copy of Wings that was marked up by the author...meaning notes in the book about the "making" of the book if you will.

http://leaveamarkauctions.blogspot.com/2009/10/auction-2-wings-by-aprilynne-pike.html

Go and bid! Spread the word because we want more people to know!

Oh, and if you bid you get extra entries into giveaways on here so you know you want to find out more about that fun addition.

Interview with MEGbabyBoutique + $25 Giveaway

2009-10-25T19:55:00.003-04:00

Interview with Connie from MEGbabyboutique
By: Lauren

Site: http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=5254096

1. How long have you been making baby items? Did you start out this way, or were you creating other products first?

I have been making baby items for 3 1/2 years. My grandmother taught me to sew when I was in high school. I worked at a fabric store while I was in college and fell in love with fabrics! After realizing I could make my own clothes without people laughing at me (at least out loud) I began to experiment with curtains, purses, quilting & even made a wedding gown and bridesmaid dresses for my brother's wedding. When my youngest daughter was born in 2006 7weeks premature, I for the first time began sewing out of necessity. The doctors told us not to use the vinyl changing pads with our fragile preemie as they can carry a large amount of bacteria, and since we could not find a cloth changing pad, we decided to design one. So our Travel Changer was the first official MEG Original item we created.

2. What made you decide to start selling on Etsy? Do you wish to have your own website in the future?

A friend of mine referred me to Etsy and I instantly fell in love. The more I explore Etsy, the more I love it. My husband and I have finally managed to get our website up & running. We haven't added all our products yet, but received our first sale on the second day it was up so we are encouraged!

3. Feedback from customers is always great. What is something that you've heard about your products that meant a lot to you?

Feedback is so great & so completely appreciated! Nothing means more to me than feedback about quality. As a mom, I think it is relatively easy to look around and see beautiful baby items. Who doesn't love shopping for babies?! What is more difficult is to find items that are lovely in appearance, completely functional, and can withstand constant wash & wear. So I get the most satisfaction from customers when they leave feedback saying they are repeat customers because of the great quality items. It's an awesome feeling!

4. Can shoppers expect to find anything new in your shop in the future? When do you normally create and sell new pieces (by season, whenever, etc)?

In the near future, shoppers can expect several new additions to our inventory. Not only are we bringing in a lot of new fabrics, but we are also adding nursing covers to match the rest of the products. Also, after experiencing the trials of trying to find hats, bibs, onesies etc. to fit a preemie, we have decided to add a line just for our tiniest treasures!

5. If you could wish on a real shooting star, what would you wish for and why?

I do wish on shooting stars!! It's so exciting! I always wish the same wish...simply for happiness for my 3 girls. I think all the other specific things I could think of can all be wrapped up in happiness for them.

Giveaway-

To Enter: What do you like about the shop or the interview?

Open To: U.S.

Ends: November 7th

Prize: $25 gift certificate to the shop. She also said " enter STAR20 in the notes section with your order and get 20% off your purchase" if you don't win or want to buy something before this ends!

Extra Extra!

+1 if you follow (leave a new comment)

+1 for every giveaway you enter on this site

+1 if you post this somewhere

And remember, every time you bid here, you get 5 points to spread through any giveaway or you can put them all into one giveaway!!

Alicia Reviews: The Naughty List by Suzanne Young

2009-10-22T13:58:00.004-04:00

Title: The Naughty List
Author: Suzanne Young
Publisher: Razorbill
Pub. Date: Feb. 4, 2010
Format: ARC
From: Publisher
Page #: 256

Review by: Alicia

Summary:

Tessa Crimson:

Cheerleader by Day, Spy by NightAs leader of the SOS (Society of Smitten Kittens), Tessa’s mission is twofold: pep preservation and relationship salvation. That’s right, Tessa is a head cheerleader whose night job is catching cheating boyfriends in the act! Thank goodness her own relationship with Aiden is strawberry-smoothie purrfect—except for the fact that she’s been concealing her nocturnal habits for, oh, two years.Aiden suspects something’s up, and his patience is wearing thin. But in the meantime, Tessa’s far too busy to deal with her own romantic roadblocks.

The Naughty List is at maximum capacity; because so far, every single suspect on it is 100% guilty.When sultry Chloe Ferril transfers to Washington High, things only become more catastrophic. Tessa knows this predatory vixen won’t stop hunting Aiden until her claws are planted firmly in his backside…But Tessa’s in for an even bigger shock when Aiden’s name shows up on The Naughty List, and she’s finally forced to confront the unthinkable: is her own boyfriend just as naughty as all the rest?

Review:

This book was cutee! I totally loved it. Did anyone watch Veronica Mars? If you did, you should read this. I think I would describe the book as Veronica Mars meets cheerleaders plus lots of naughtiness.

Tessa was a cute character. She was completely filled with being peppy and happy. Most of the time I liked it, but some of the time I found it a little annoying. She never ever swears either! She says cute little phrases instead! And when people around her swear, she just gives them a look and they apologize and rephrase their comment. Her attitude and way of talking changed a bit at the end, for which I was grateful. I found her more easy to relate to when she made mistakes and wasn’t acting “perfect”.
<>

The only thing I would have liked more of was the back story of Tessa and Aiden’s relationship.

The little cheating reports and notes before each chapter were cool. It definitely added to them spying on people.

I just, really, really, reeeeeeeaaaalllllyyyyyyy loved the book. It made me feel lots of emotions. I’m stopping the review now because if I don’t, I will just spend the rest of this review gushing. For real. :)

I am also eagerly counting down the days until the sequel comes out, not sure if I will make it though.

Cover- the cover is cute and I like it. I like how the girl is on top of the guy and they are on a bed with lingerie around them. And I don’t think I should have said that. Also the background blinds make it seem like an old spy movie. I like it.

Overall: 4.5/5

Go buy it when it comes out!!!!!!

Another Another Faust Contest!

2009-10-22T13:49:00.003-04:00

The author's of Another Faust are holding a fun giveaway for all you writers out there!

Hi everyone. Dina and I are about to kick off a month-long tour for our book, Another Faust, and we want to do it by announcing a contest! We are looking for the most promising writers out there (that’s YOU). And then we want to showcase their work, so that all of the Internet can bask in their awesome writing might (and, you know, give them prizes).

HERE’S HOW IT GOES.

We want you to write your own short story, re-imagining of the Faustian Bargain. (For inspiration, check out Bedazzled, Simpsons “Tree House of Horrors IV,” and The Little Mermaid). It can be about anything you like (but let’s keep it PG-13, and under 3,000 words), and it’s open to everyone.
All you have to do is send your entry to dviergutz@gmail.com before January 31.

Rules and details can be found here:

http://www.danielanddina.com/site/2009/10/writing-contest-create-another-ano

Make sure to read them so you don’t get DQed

And the winner gets all kinds of sweetness:

A signed copy of Another Faust

A handwritten deleted scene

A featured article & interview on our site

An author’s galley of the sequel Another Pan

Though we’ll feature the top five on our site for comments, the judging WON’T happen by popular vote (so basically, we don't care which contestant has the most friends). Dina and I will personally read them.

So, spread the word! Tweet, retweet, forward, thread, spread, embed this post.

Good luck!
D&D