The Adoration of Jenna Fox

by Mary E Pearson

Interesting, to say the least. I wasn't sure what the book was even about, even after reading the blurb on the back. Fascinating speculation as to what may be to come if we continue to medicate with antibiotics as the cure-all. It was sci-fi enough to be considered sci-fi, but not in the extreme. I could pronounce every word in the book :) Jenna wakes up with no recollection. Of anything. At all. She's not even sure she's awake. She doesn't know what/who she is, either. I thought it was great!

***

City of Ashes

by Cassandra Clare

Once I remembered which characters were who, but after a chapter or so, I found myself completely enthralled. There were twists and turns and more character development...it was great!! I am SO excited to get the final book in the series. Clary, Simon, Jace, and the others continue to fight evil forces, while trying to figure out the same things every teenager is dealing with.

***

Matched (re-read)

by Ally Condie

I re-read this book for my book club. I had forgotten just how much I enjoyed this book the first time. Since it had been a while, it took a chapter or so to remember the storyline. Future-earth; regulated society. Someone errs, does that mean the Society (decision-makers) are not perfect after all? Hmmm... Anyway, I liked it. Crossed is the next in the series...can't wait!

***

Jane Austen Ruined My Life

by Beth Pattillo

What a story. Feminine, realistic, humorous, touching, angry, and everything in between. Emma is dealing with a recent divorce, losing her career, and trying to figure out what to do next. She's in London on a treasure hunt of the literary sort. She is a Jane Austen fan...no fanatic, of sorts - both in literature and personally. She blames the "happily every after" of Austen for her own recent demise. This journey of love, friendship, vulnerability, and emotion is a quick and easy read. Fairly light-hearted and mostly feminine. I would recommend it - no language, no "scenes", just caffeine and searching..oh and shopping, too.

***

untouchable

by Scott O'Connor

I wasn't sure what I was getting into when I downloaded this book onto my phone (Kindle app). I began reading about this man and his son, "The Kid". The man worked a job where he cleaned up after the authorities where through. The Kid was trying to survive sixth grade in a school where the bullies had father's working at the school. I originally thought..Aliens? Mafia? Also, the mom was dead - at least that's the story the man told The Kid, but The Kid thought it was a coverup of some sort - she was a high school teacher. It was a little troubling at first, but in the end, the story was very touching. This father and son are trying to sort through a variety of feelings in a very human way, without means of verbal communication. Somewhere along the way, The Kid quite talking. I would say this was a "real" story. Could be someone you know. Although I don't think I'll read it again, I would recommend it. There's language (mostly from a sixth grade classmate with the mouth of a sailor), and a few disturbing scenes as far as death, but nothing graphic or explicit - just mature. Interesting and very human.

***

Rebecca

by Daphne DuMaurier

This is a book club selection. I had an extremely hard time getting into it. I found the story to be rather slow moving and the writing very wordy. I thought I could wiz through a book, but in this case, it took me nearly 2 weeks to finish all 380 pages...Once I got into the last third, I was involved enough to want to finish it. I found the end to be rather anticlimactic. I understand there's a sequel, and while I'd like to know how the story ends, I'm not willing to attempt another DeMaurier novel any time soon. So, the story involves two main characters, who, shortly after meeting are married and travel to his home to live. I found "her" to be quite open and easy to understand (as well as paranoid and insecure). "he", on the other hand, was so vague and obscure, he was difficult to follow (and his moodiness rivaled a post-partum mommy). The secondary characters were shallow, but not unimportant. All over, this was not my favorite book. It was well-written, but too wordy for my taste. Also, I read to be entertained and this book was less than captivating.

Twice Upon a Marigold

by Jean Ferris

Sequel to Once Upon a Marigold. Again, same characters, with a few new ones. Those fairy tale people had found great happiness, but it has gone awry. Now they have to decide how to find it again, without hurting any innocents. Still light-hearted and fun to read, but with enough depth to keep you going.

***

Once Upon a Marigold

by Jean Ferris

This fairy tale of sorts is a fun, easy read! There's a prince, a princess, a troll, a queen (evil, of course), a king and other assorted characters. They all want to be happy, but have different ideas of what that means and how to go about achieving it. Great for a little escape and a few laughs :)

***

Bright Young Things

by Anna Godbersen

What a fun book! I was taken back to the "roaring 20's". 3 young women all experience different aspects of life in 1929 New York City. I got completely enveloped. I felt like was right there as the story unfolds. Fun Fun Fun!!

Also, a series :)

***

The Oak Leaves

by Maureen Lang

I enjoyed the parallel stories of this book: modern mother searching for answers, 150-year old journal in hand; 18th-century woman searching for answers, documenting her journey. They all come together and open understanding to all. Great story of acceptance and finding joy in the trials God allows you to endure and grow from.

****

The Believer

by Ann H. Gabhart

Previously, I had read The Outsider by this author and thought this book, The Believer, was a sequel. While they are similar in place and time, they are not necessarily related in story. This book tells of three children who, due to unpleasant circumstances, are faced with harsh choices. These choices lead them to the local Shaker community. They experience life as a Shaker - both positive and negative - and, as we all are, are faced with new challenges and choices. Elizabeth is the oldest sibling and most of the story revolves around her. I thoroughly enjoyed it. For me it was thought-provoking, and caused me to remember why I believe as I do.

***

Sarah's Key

by Tatiana de Rosnay

What a moving story of pain, loss, and moving on. Dual settings, WWII France and Present-Day France. Two people's lives twist and turn around events out of their control. What a great way to learn of the hardships and choices people are faced with during war; and how we, as innocents who having experienced that can understand and ultimately find peace in the past.

Fabulous!

****

Vixen (The Flappers Series)

by Jillian Larkin

I loved the idea of a story set during Prohibition in 1920's America. This one is set in Chicago. A group of teen girls are discovering what being a teenager is all about: deciding who you are or want to become, what is important to you, and what you're willing to do to achieve your goals. Parts of the story are predictable, but still a fun read. I was surely entertained by the atmosphere, descriptions, and details of this book. It's a quick read - not too many crazy-big words. I'm going to find the next book today!

****

This book inspired my costume for Halloween this year!!

a Great Realization...

So...I've been looking over past books read, my thoughts regarding them, and comments. I have come to a Great Realization: I Like Every Book I Read! I'm not very discerning as long as I smile as I put it down. How lame is that?! So, I'm going to try to be more...opinionated...about the books I read.

Enjoy!!

The Witches of Santa Anna (Books 1-7)

by Lauren Barnholdt and Aaron Gorvine

So, as I got into this series, I realized it's like a teen soap opera. Lots of high school drama, lots of catty girls, and lots of boys. In spite of that fact, I quite enjoyed it. I wouldn't say I loved it, but I'll probably read the next "season". It's a quick read. Light, exciting, interesting, and fun!

***

Frost Moon

by Anthony Francis

An interesting book with werewolves, vampires, other paranormal characters. The main character is not just a tattoo artist; she is a magical tattoo artist. It makes for a variety of characters and a liberal value-set. There was a lot of swearing - f-words - and sexual innuendo/tension, so I'd say it's more adult-appropriate. Not the best I've ever read, but still a fun premise. It's the first in the Skindancer series. Next book is, "Blood Rock". I might give it a go...

***

Drowning Ruth

by Christina Schwarz

Ok. This is a book from Oprah's booklist. Having said that, I personally don't put a lot of credibility in Oprah's choice in books. So. I was talking to a friend and found a great way to describe this book: Not entertaining, but worthwhile. It is written for adults (no language, but a little disturbing). I found this story to be an interesting comment on society's acceptance of mental illness years ago and the changes in treatment from the 1930's to present. If this story had taken place in more recent years, it would have been a completely different story.

I can't say I liked it, but I didn't dislike it either. I found it disturbing and emotionally draining. When I closed the book, I was...relieved. If you like a heavy storyline, with depth and emotion, this is a great book! It was complicated, but well-written.

***

Armageddon Summer

by Jane Yolen & Bruce Coville

I read a few of Yolen's books and always found them to be interesting, but borderline boring. I expected the same with this book. While it wasn't "high adventure" or full of twists and turn, it was worth finishing. The end made the book worth reading. I realized that no matter what life throws at you (or you bring upon yourself), you can endure, recover, and go on. And, be a better person for it. A great tale of two young people caught up in a religious fervor. Great for 12+

The Outsider: A Novel

by Ann H. Gabhart

I guess I needed something to make me do a little soul-searching, because that's what I got out of this book. Unintended, of course. As Sister Gabrielle enjoyed her life as a Shaker, she soon found herself questioning the very foundation of her religion. This gave me the opportunity to ponder a few things, as well. I absolutely enjoyed this book. I found it frustrating that it didn't follow my expectation in storyline, but I was enthralled, nonetheless. Great for young adults or older children, as well.

****

Reckless

by Cornelia Funke

I can usually get into a fantasy book after a few chapters. This one, however has such a dark twist I just couldn't get past it. I think, I just wasn't in the mood for a fantasy book. Whatever the reason, after a few chapters, I put it down...and returned it to the library unfinished... :/

**

Sixteen Brides

by Stephanie Whitson

I found this for free from amazon.com for my Kindle app. It was a little slow to start, but needed to lay a foundation for the rest of the story to unfold. Once it did - it was great! It's the late 1800's, the Civil War is over, and people are homesteading and moving west (to Nebraska). This tale shares the stories of sixteen women who end up in Nebraska Territory with one goal in mind: a new life. They got it! Great book!!

****

Anastasia's Secret

by Susanne Dunlap

All I know about Princess Anastasia of Russia is from the animated movie, "Anastasia". It was good to read a story with some truth in its story. The actual story isn't true, but the characters, locations, and some incidences are. What a great way to learn about history, without realizing it. Good book!!

***

City of Bones

by Cassandra Clare

Wow. I had heard this was a great series, but was on a long waiting list...now I know why! It IS wonderful! I had a hard time putting it down; when I did, I knew I'd pick it right back up and get lost in it immediately. It's a great book for young adults - no sex, no graphic violence, a few OMG's, but no other swearing (that I remember). Just a great story to get lost it.

I'm getting on the list for the next book right now!

****

Fair Maiden

by Cheri Schmidt

Another book by this author... and again, I couldn't put it down! This updated fairytale just kept me on the edge of my page. Well written, twists and turns, and clean romance kept me going. I would definitely say this is a good book!

****

The Outsiders

by S. E. Hinton

Oh my... I now see why this is such a modern classic. The war between social classes comes to life, as told by one experiencing it. There is violence, pain, sorrow, loss, grief, happiness, and peace all wrapped into this one book. I would say, high school-age or mature middle school-age could read and understand easily. Personally, I think every adult should read this, then decide whether or not people are worth giving a chance...you might see things a little differently.

Great Book!!!

****

Time of the Witches

by Anna Myers

Phew! Talk about intense. This historical fiction had me thinking the entire time: is she next? is she next? Ack!!

A young girls lives is Salem Village and deals first hand with the craze that arises when people are accused of witchcraft. Great book! Easy read! Lots of history, but not boring at all.

****

Newes from the Dead

by Mary Hooper

Here's the caption on the cover: "She was dead. And minutes away from being dissected. Then she woke up." That pretty much says it all. During the 1600's dissection was the only way doctors and scientists could learn about the human body. Just as today, they were intrigued by how the body and brain worked, and wanted to know all they could. Anne Green made choices that, through "the law", led to her death...almost. Great book!!

****

Princess of the Midnight Ball

by Jessica Day George

Twelve princesses disappear nightly, returning with worn dancing slippers. Yet, no one knows where or when they go. A young soldier, Galen, returns from war to a kingdom on the edge of falling. This great tale kept my interest and me wanting more. Fun tale!!

****

Out of Time: A Paranormal Romance

by Monique Martin

What a fun book. Time travel, vampires, and new yorkers. It does have romantic scenes and a couple f-words - so probably an adult book. A grand adventure with love, pain, sorrow, joy, intrigue and more! I look forward to the sequel this fall.

***

Fall Girl

by Marybeth Smith

This poor girl...trying to finish her Junior Year of HS, deal with a brother who is bipolar, a lame-a$$ boyfriend, and all the other crazy stuff that comes along. There is a lot of teenage swearing (several F-words, too), but the story is great! Well written and a good reminder of what a teenager deals with all the time.

***

The Abandoned

by Amanda Stevens

This short book is a hard-hitting dose of paranormal reality. If you don't go for paranormal stuff, then it's a great book about mental health care of the past and its effects on those now. A great book...mystery, adventure! Loved it - it was a quick, easy read! Can't wait to get the next in the series.

****

Loki's Daughters !

by Delle Jacobs

I blushed a few times as I read...not a book for young people. Despite the blush, I found the story endearing and enticing. I would recommend this tale of Celts and Vikings to anyone who isn't sensitive to sexuality in it's rawest form. If you are, skip it.

***

!

Unsigned

by C. C. McKinnon

Whoa. I wasn't sure what to think of this book as I began, but after a few chapters, I was hooked. A suicide note shows up with no signature and no specific person it's addressed to...random? What a great story. Painful pasts, difficult nows, and unknown futures...isn't this what life is all about? A little disturbing in parts when abuse is remembered. Overall, a great book!

****

Fractured

by Cheri Schmidt

This is the second book in the Fateful series. I absolutely loved Fateful, and was NOT disappointed in Fractured. There were several plot twists that kept things interesting. This is a clean read that might appeal to young adults as well as "mommies" such as myself. I had a hard time putting it down.

****

btw - amazon.com for Kindle purchase made this book only $2.99 and it was on my phone so I had it wherever I went!! (Fateful is only $ .99)

The Language of Sand

by Ellen Block

I generally get stuck in a rut of a single genre: vampires. So I thought I'd stretch a little and read something about a person who could exist in reality: a woman dealing with loss, pain, and change.

The main character is moving to a new place for a new start. She wants to be able to enjoy life and find happiness, but is still stuck with feelings of pain, loss, and memories of the past. As she finds her way around her new place, she discovers much more than she ever intended.

I really liked the realistic life situations of this book. It helped me remember that everyone deals with difficult situations and is still able to enjoy life. Great book!!

****

Fateful

by Cheri Schmidt

I'm not usually too keen on reading a book by "a friend of mine"... as my cousin said. However, I thought I'd give it a go, as it was a free download on my phone. I just purchased the next book :)

A fresh start for college, in a new town (and country, for that matter), and the main character is instantly charming. She lives with her uncle and his family while she is attending college near London, England. As she gets to know a few people and gain new life experiences, she "fatefully" keeps running into one person in particular. I read the book in almost one day...once I got past the first few chapters, I literally couldn't put it down.

Great read!!

****

p.s. Thanks Kelli

Prayers for Sale

by Sandra Dallas

Wow.  I had no idea that "mountain life" was so difficult.  Around the turn of the 20th century, people were moving West; looking for new adventures, looking for new lives; and looking for anything better than what they had.  This is the story of "Hennie", as told by herself.  It is fiction, but could be anyone's life during that time.  A great tale of love, pain, newness, and peace.  Great book!!

****

All Other Nights

by Dara Horn

This historical fiction gives an account of life for a Northerner, Southerner, soldier, civilian, and others both during the Civil War and after....wow!  I love history, but haven't read much about the Civil War.  It gives information without being graphic; it helped me better understand what life was like for a variety of people and just how volatile the entire war was.  Great book!!

****

The Devil's Paintbox

by Victoria McKernan

What a great insight into life in the late 1800's west of the Mississippi.  Drought, sickness, accidents, bandits, indians; all manner of ways to die.  Yet, a boy survives.  This is his tale.  Interesting book.  I was on the edge of my seat at times.  Great read!

***

Jane Bites Back

by Michael Thomas Ford

What a fun spin on the life of Jane Austen. I haven't read any of her books, but I love the story of Pride & Prejudice. This takes place today; the kicker being: Jane is a vampire. Just a light read that makes you smile and laugh at times. I'm excited to read the next installment: Jane Goes Batty.

****

Falling Under

by Gwen Hayes

Whoa...fascinating story of life in this realm and the demons that exist in the realm of death, evil, and nightmares.  I loved the entire book until the end....I hope there's a sequel.

****

Casting Spells

by Barbara Bretton

What a fun book!  Witches, werewolves, fairies and Magick, all in a small New England town.  Death, intrigue, manipulation, and love all make this book a great read!

****

Carolina Harmony

by Marilyn Taylor McDowell

I never read Sarah, Plain and Tall by Patricia MacLachlan; however, I expect is wasn't as good as Carolina Harmony.  Carolina goes through struggle after struggle, but relies on her Daddy and Auntie Shen to stay true to herself.  A great story of courage and pain and joy and peace, and family (in whatever form it comes). 

****

Matched

by Ally Condie (local author)

What a great story!! Reminded me of The Giver (Lowry) and Hunger Games (Collins) with it's own uniqueness. I couldn't put it down. Definitely a must-read!!

****

My Double Life

by Janette Ralliston

Crazy how the world comes together.  Lexi just wants to finish high school, go to college, and live a great life.  She wants to provide for her Abuela and mother, too.  Then her life takes a twist...fame, money, and the whirlwind that comes with it.  Does she lose herself in the chaos?  Great book for young adults and adults, alike.  I little predictable, but still a fun read.

***

Please Ignore Vera Dietz

by A.S. King

What a great book!  The death of a friend can be traumatic.  Vera just wants him back and life to go on as normal.  See how she copes and faces challenges in dealing with death.  Great story!!

****

A Vintage Affair

by Isabel Wolff

Great story written for young adults. One semi-graphic paragraph; only minor language for the most part. Pheobe Swift is dealing with...life...career, friends, family...life. This is her tale and how she copes (and doesn't). A great feel-good story that will put a smile on your face.

****

The Book of Spies

by Gayle Lynds

Great story of intrigue, manipulation, blackmail, and other awesome spy stuff! I really like this book - lots of shooting, but nothing graphic. Adult book, but mostly for actual explicit language and storyline rather than other "grown-up" details.

***

The Servants' Quarters

by Lynn Freed

One word: boring. I kept waiting, each chapter, for the story to peak and climax; then it was over. Not really an interesting topic - British family in So Africa (?) in early 20th century (?). It wasn't very clear. I don't recommend it...it was just drab.

*

Tainted

by Brooke Morgan

This is a book nominated for a reader's choice at the SLCo Library. So I figured it would be worth reading. Holy Smokies! It was intense. I just kept waiting and waiting for the proverbial bogeyman to jump out from the next page. I thought it was great! It's a great story - twists, turns - that keeps you moving. Lots of F-words :( but other than that it was awesome! I can see why it was nominated.

****

Saving CeeCee Honeycutt

by Beth Hoffman

What an inspring tale of a young girl. She endures a mother who is manic-depressive, a father who is absent most of the time, and ridicule from the people in her town. She moves to Savannah with a family member and discovers what life is all about. I loved it! I laughed, I cried, and I related. ****

Levianthan

by Scot Westerfeld.

Tried...Faild. I liked the Uglies series, but just could NOT get into this other book. I've heard great reviews...I'll have to try again later.

Bloody Jack

by L. A. Meyer This pirate tale begins in cheapside, London, 1700's. Orphans run around the streets, scavenging and scraping to survive. When opportunity arises, one particular orphan becomes "Jack". This is the story of Jack and sailing the seas looking for pirates. It is full of adventure, excitement, and mystery. Great for children age 12 + or their parents! ***

The Shakeress

by Kimberley Heuston A great tale of a young woman who is orphaned with three younger siblings. She must decide how to care for them and still be true to herself. Through interesting twists and turns and listening to her "intuition", she discovers happiness. GREAT for Young Adults. Clean. ****

A Northern Light

by Jennifer Donnelly Takes place in the Northeast (somewhere) during the early 1900's. The land and people are rugged and worn. A young girl is thrown into a household and children, among other things. She tells her story and how the death of another young woman inspired her to follow her heart. There is some language and suggestive situations, but is mostly clean. Most young women would find this story interesting. I liked it. ****

The Short Second Life of Bree Tanner

by Stephenie Meyer

I hesitated in reading this for a long time. I have really enjoyed Bella's view and didn't want to ruin that. However, I also love Meyer's writing (The Host), so I finally decided to go for it! I read it in a day (not surprising if you know me), and found it to be refreshing. I was great to experience a well-loved story from another point of view. If you haven't read this but enjoyed the Twilight Saga, read it. Today!

****

Ella Minnow Pea

by Mark Dunn

I found this book on the "sale" shelf at the library. It had a cute cover so I picked it up. As I read the first page, I thought I might be in over my head...vocabulary was way beyond me. However, as I kept reading and gathered the premise of the story, I found that it was great! The vocab wasn't a hindrance, but instead an expander. In this small community, words and the alphabet are key parts of life. When letters are outlawed one by one, it becomes increasingly difficult to communicate effectively. Some give up altogether. Miss Ella Minnow Pea is the only one who can solve this problem.

This was a quick read - a couple of days. Great story. Clean. Just fun - especially if you like words that aren't often used in colloquial (everyday) language.

****

Death Angel

by Martha Powers

I found this book on the "for sale" shelf at the library...$1 for hardcover. This adult drama was interesting, but sad. It was well-written and had great twists, etc. It is about a family who loses their only daughter to a brutal murder. The book follows the journey from death to peace. It has swearing (no F's) and some sexually explicit scenes - but it is written for adults, so....

***

Kiss of Death (Morganville Vampires)

by Rachel Caine

Phew. Finally. Claire, Shane, Eve, and Michael have the chance to leave Morganville. What happens is crazy! This is the final book in the series. While I hate to see it end, it was a great read!!

****

Fade Out (Morganville Vampires)

by Rachel Caine

Claire and her friends are still in Morganville trying to survive and get through from day to day. Love this series!!

****

Anna and the French Kiss

by Stephanie Perkins

What a breath of fresh air! A high schooler is sent to Europe for boarding school. Her parents are divorced and she leaves behind her mom, little brother, dad, and friends. She makes new friends, does well in her classes, but most importantly, she discovers so many things about herself. She finds out what is important to her and what things truly matter in life. AND. She kisses a boy (or two?). It's a clean story from the view of a high school senior. It was great!

****

Hunted

by P.C. & Kristin Cast

The House of Night Series is one of vampires of all sorts. It is set in Tulsa, Oklahoma at a high school of sorts for young vampires-in-the-making. I love the characters. I love the story. I don't love the foul language, but can deal with it (most of the time). Great book for high school-age, if language is not an issue. If it is, don't bother starting the series, it will just grate at you.


***

Untamed

by P.C. & Kristin Cast

Part of the House of Night series, I recentlt pick this one up. I had forgotten just how terrible the language of teenagers can be when they think no adults are around (or how terrible language is percieved by authors of young adult fiction). I can handle farm language, but OMG and F... are a little much for me. Language aside, the story is great! I love the characters and how they mingle. The Casts' are excellent story tellers.

***

Carpe Corpus (Morganville Vampires #6)

by Rachel Caine

While feeding my addiction to this series, I realized that I've acted like a spoiled teenager: reading without care for those around me...sorry.

Claire continues to manage her life with blatant disregard for the "rules" of Morganville. And, it's still working for her and her friends. All is not well, but much better than before...mayhem is not far away, though.

Lords of Misrule (Morganville Vampires #5)

by Rachel Caine

I feel like I've found a new soap opera to watch. The plot twists, chaos, and general vampire madness is so intruging to me!

Feast of Fools (Morganville Vampires #4)

by Rachel Caine

Seriously, I've become obsessed with this series. I read this book in an evening after the kids went to bed...need I say more?!

Midnight Alley (Morganville Vampires #3)

by Rachel Caine

I don't know how I've gotten so hooked on this series - it's full of teenage angst and attitude, casual swearing, making out (no sex, the main character's only 16), and killing. Whatever it is, I don't know. But I am constantly intrigued as to what happens next.

Poor Claire is a high school early-grad who's moved to Morganville for college. This town, however, is not the typical college-town. Vampires run the town and get their way. Claire finds solace with 3 other teens who are more familiar with surviving in such a screwed up town. Despite her best efforts, Claire can't seem to stay out of trouble.

Like I said, there's language, attitude and murder...not great for kids, but a mature teen could handle it.

****

The Musician's Daughter

by Susanne Dunlap

I never thought the story of a humble musician could be so full of intrigue, drama, and mystery. This tale includes Haydn (yes, the composer), the Archduchess, gypsies, and more. Great book for a girl to feel a little empowerment, and even a hint of love.

****

The 13th Reality: The Hunt for Dark Infinity

by James Dashner

The tale of Atticus "Tick" Higginbottom continues. He hops to different realities in hopes of saving the one he calls home. Along with his friends, Tick's adventures are full of danger, drama, and hope, with a hint of humor.

I'm ready for the next in the series.

****