Dust Lands: Blood Red Road

by Moira Young

I found this book on the Beehive Book Award Nominees shelf at the library.  They are usually good reads, so I grabbed a copy.  One of the quotes said, "Better than The Hunger Games"; I was intrigued.  The first chapter left me wondering where this might be headed.  The rest of the book had me hooked!  Adventure, angst, passion, grief, guilt, joy, and relief are a few words that come to mind as I reflect on the story.  A great read for young adults, especially girls who like a strong lead character.  Definitely worth the award nomination.

****

The Unnaturalists

By Tiffany Trent

Unsure of what I might find, I was interested in this book because of the steam punk dress on the cover (recent fascination).  As I read about this alternate world, I was hooked.  An element of fantasy mixed with the reality of early twentieth century London had me hooked.  A great reminder to keep the delicate balance of nature in mind as life is lived - without being obsessive or extreme, of course.  A fun tale for teens!

****

Shattered Silence

by Melissa G. Moore

This book club selection was a happy surprise!  When I learned it is the memoir of a child whose father was the "Happy Face Killer", I was interested, but not in the mood for such a dark topic.  To my relief, Moore tells her story in a way that makes it understandable and almost relatable (is that a word?).  She tells of her childhood and what it was like to have a father who drove truck for a living.  She tells of her mother doing her best to make ends meet.  She shares her relationship with her siblings and how it was affected by different changes in their lives.  I put the book down with a smile.  I found myself wanting to be a better person and "take the high road" rather than place blame or be a victim at times.  Well written and fascinating!  Great for young adults who have in interest in nonfiction (maybe age 15+) and people stories.

****

Wicked Girls

by Stephanie Hemphill

A Fictionized (is that a word?) account of the Salem Witch Trials.  It is articulate and interesting.  I love this topic, so I may a little biased, but I found this story wonderful!

***

False Princess

by Eilis O'Neal

This Beehive Book Award nominee is great for fans of Shannon Hale!  I like princess stories, but they need a little twist to keep me interested.  This book had princesses, twists, magic, adventure, and more!  I think readers of all ages would enjoy this (okay, maybe age 12+).  This book definitely gets my vote :)

***

Texas Gothic

by Mary Clement-Moore

According to the Beehive Book Choice Nominations, this book is for mature readers.  I wasn't sure what that entailed, until now.  A fantastic tale of ghosts, spells, potions, and daily life in a small Texas ranching town.  I would guess maturity is needed to handle the spooky ghost that keeps popping up and the slightly steamy incident between two of the characters (nothing graphic, but gentle reminders of being a teenager discovering hormones - probably not ideal for a young reader, but that's up to the parents).  I really enjoyed this book.  Definitely going to give it a vote for the Beehive Book Award (local author recognition)!

***

Beehive YA Nominees 2012

I love these books.  They are Utah authors from all genres.  Here's my list of to-reads that are nominees this year:

* Between Shades of Gray by Ruta Sepetys (mature readers)
* Blood Red Road by Moira Young (mature readers)
* Death Cloud by Andrew Lane
* False Princess by Eilis O'Neal
* The Last Thing I Remember by Andrew Klavan (mature readers)
* Okay for Now by Gary Schmidt
* Ruby Red by Kerstin Gier
* Running Dream by Wendelin van Draanen
* Sean Griswold's Head by Lindsey Leavitt
* Ten Miles Past Normal by Frances O'Roark Dowell
* Texas Gothic by Rosemary Clement-Moore (mature readers - spooky, drinking, make outs, near nudity)

Finished Texas Gothic...onto False Princess.
Finished False Princess...onto something else :)

Enjoy!!

Walk Two Moons

by Sharon Creech

I read this book a few years ago for a Children's Literature class.  It's targeted for 3-6th grade.  I had completely forgotten the story line, but I did remember that I absolutely loved it!  The second time around, was no disappointment.  I laughed out loud (during my daughter's gymnastics class), pondered my own reactions, and even cried.  A great story about a young girl, Sal, who is dealing with changes in her family and herself.  Well written, clean, funny, appropriate, and heart-felt - this is a book everyone should read.  Deals with divorce, death, moving, friends, family, and everything in between!

****

Pirates!

by Celia Rees

I've read another book by this author, Witch Child, and loved it!  I also happen to love pirates, so I thought I'd give it a go.  I was not disappointed.  With the time change on Sunday, I had an extra hour to read.  I began about 8:30 AM and was finished before 10 PM...with church, dinner, etc in between.  It was SO fun and exciting.  It includes female pirates, beheadings, forbidden love, and all sorts of adventure!  Great for teens and adults, especially girls who like a little extreme fun :)

****

Attachments

by Rainbow Rowell

What a light-hearted story involving two female co-workers and the IT guy who monitors email.  Share the everyday challenges that arise in all three lives and how they choose to cope with them.  Not much of an explanation, I know, but just a cute, fun, easy book!  I absolutely enjoyed it.  Adult language, be warned.  Not excessive, but it is in there.

***

The Charlestown Connection

by Tom MacDonald

Another Reader's Choice selection from my local library.  I usually like these books, even though they're not often ones I would choose for myself.  This thriller takes place in the Boston area, present day.  Those who like baseball will find the details interesting.  When a man dies in front of him, Dermot Sparhawk finds himself in the middle of something...something bigger than he can imagine.  Great story!  (lots of swearing)  Exciting and interesting.  I found myself wondering how all of it would come together in the end.

***

The American Heiress

by Daisy Goodwin

What an exciting tale of an American high-society "princess" and her ties to the English Duke of Wareham.  During the 1890's this was not uncommon, but fascinating nonetheless.  The first few chapters were a little slow, but I was soon enveloped in the spacious rooms, over-the-top clothing, and speculative scandals.  Great book!

****

Graveminder

by Melissa Marr

I have really enjoyed other books by this author - written for young adults.  This one is adult fiction, but not at all disappointing.  She creates such wonderful realities; so interesting and complete.  I enjoyed thinking about what other people might think of death to be like; before, after, limbo, etc.  I loved it!  As one who loves a good series, I wish this was part of one...not so.  Great read, a little language (yes, f-word).

****

The Friday Night Knitting Club

by Kate Jacobs

I thought this series sounded like a fun read.  Georgia Walker and her almost-teenager daughter live in NYC in a small apartment above their knitting shop, "Walker and Daughter".  This tale of friendship, hurt, love, loss and everything in between is one that will have you smiling, crying, laughing, and pondering your own relationships.  It's a little "Steel Magnolias", but don't let that deter you.  Great book for adults, especially women, who need a little dose of "reality" without having to face their own reality for the moment. Some language, a few F-words.

***

Clockwork Prince

by Cassandra Claire

Book two in "The Infernal Devices" series.  I was so excited to see how this tied into "The Immortal Instruments" series...I guess I'll have to wait and see after another book.  Well written, exciting, quick, and captivating.  I want to be a Shadowhunter myself :)

Clockwork Angel

by Cassandra Claire

This is the first book in the series "The Infernal Devices"; prequel to "The Mortal Instruments" series.  I absolutely loved the initial series.  And, I'm happy to say that I was not disappointed in Clockwork Angel.  New characters, familiar situations, but still new enough not to feel repetitive.  Excited to begin the next book!

***

Cinder and Ella

by Melissa Lemon

If you like fairy tales this one is a fun one.  Not really a traditional fairy tale, but gives an explanation as to who Cinderella might have been.  Cute and fun; a little dark, but nothing scary.  Ages 12+ (there's a little kissing).

***

Too Stubborn to Die

by Cato Jaramillo

This is the tale of a Holocaust survivor, in her own words.  Cato shares her story of pain, sorrow, sadness, horror, and peace.  It isn't necessarily a book of joy, but there's truly inspiration to find the best in the worst of situations and to be true to yourself no matter what.  It was a quick read; I was sucked in immediately.  Definitely recommend for anyone who needs a boost in a non-sappy, painfully realistic way.  There's a little language, implications of graphic abuse, and thorough descriptions of death...just be prepared, especially if a young person reads this - may be best to discuss throughout.

****

Diva

by Jillian Larkin

This third book in the Flappers series was released earlier this year...I've been waiting!  Prohibition is becoming sort of an obsession with me when it comes to historical periods.  I love the drama, romance, even the violence that was so prevalent then.  This book has it all:  romance, intrigue, laughter, sadness, music, drama, and violence.  What a great ending to the series!!

****

Ingenue

by Jillian Larkin

I have been waiting to read this book for a while now.  It is the second in the Flappers series.  I love the format that's used.  Each character's viewpoint is a chapter, similar to a soap opera.  All the storylines intertwine and relate, eventually coming together in the end.  Fun book!  Set during Prohibition-era New York/Chicago, young people make their way in life.

****

Thirst: The Eternal Dawn

by Christopher Pike

I read a lot of his books in jr. high.  This series, Thirst, is for adults, and a lot of fun to read.  In this third book, Alisa, the main character, is a 5,000-year-old vampire who has adjusted to living among humans well enough to blend in 99.9% of the time.  This 0.1% is where the story picks up.  It helps to have read the first two books, only for the background.  It's not necessary, but makes the book more complete.  Although these are "adult" books, and have some language and minimal sexual situations/suggestions, they are quick and easy to read.  I recommend them if you like vampires, adventures, and something that makes you think about the moral high ground without even realizing it.

****

hello? Is anyone there?

I don't know what happened, but I just couldn't get through about 3 different books.  Sorry, I've been out so long - trying to find something to read that didn't feel heavy or drab...found one!!

Torn

by Robin Wasserman

I finally finished the last book in the Cold Awakening series.  I was so excited to see how the ends were all wrapped up and just what happened to each of the characters.  A futuristic reality where brains are scanned when bodies are injured beyond repair and placed into new bodies that are more sturdy and nearly unbreakable, the question arises:  Although intelligence is in the brain, where does a soul reside?  When a brain and connected memories are given a new body, does that mean a person is the same as before?  It was interesting to think about consequences, opinions, etc as I read this book.  In the end, the loose ends....well.  Let's just say it wasn't the ending I had anticipated.  Still a fun series to read, not one I'd read again.

***

Lois Lowry series

In discussing several books at book club, I was surprised to find out how many people didn't realize The Giver by Lois Lowry is book one is a series.  I had always assumed there were 3 books, but according to GoodReads, there are 4:  The Giver, Gathering Blue, Messenger, Son.  I think it's time to re-read some old favorites!

Blood Like Poison

by M. Leighton

This free Kindle ebook was a fun fantasy tale including vampires, humans, and blood.  Not in the typical "suck you blood" way, though.  This time blood can be poison.  I found it fun to read, exciting at times and a little slow at other times.  It's part of a series, so I'll keep an eye out for the next one:  Destined for a Vampire.
***

Shattered

by Robin Wasserman

The second book in the Cold Awakening series was just as interesting as the first.  I can't say I was swept away, but I was definitely interested in what happened as Lia and her "friends" deal with technology and adults they neither understand nor fathom.  Nice twist at the end made picking up book 3 very easy.  A little language, but better than most middle school hallways by a long shot.  Young adult for sure.

***

Distant Waves: A Novel of the Titanic

by Suzanne Weyn. I was entertained. I enjoyed the story. I smiled, laughed, worried, and wondered. Fun read :)
***

The Time Traveler's Wife

by Audrey Niffenegger was one I'd had on my list of 'to-read's forever. I finally got around to it and........was sucked right in! I thought on several occasions while reading, does he die? does she die? what happens? do they get together? ack! I absolutely loved it! I would say it is Definitely written for adults...sexual content, language...still a fascinating story and enjoyable book!
****

Frozen

Just finished book 1 in the Cold Awakening trilogy, Frozen, by Robin Wasserman. What an interesting story: future society where bodies can be made if damage is beyond repair. There are consequences, some that are surprising. I really liked it! Just put the next book, Shattered, on hold at the library.
****

Daughter of Smoke & Bone (#1)

by Laini Taylor
I only knew this fantasy genre book has come highly recommended. I waited and waited as I plowed through, nearly unable to do anything else, for the loose ends to wrap up...as I read the last

 page...
Anyway, I thoroughly enjoyed reading about chimera and angels from a human point of view as well as reading about humans from a "elsewhere" point of view. Great book!! Some language & innuendo, not for young teens, great for mature 14+.
Onto the next...
****

Death Comes to Pemberley

by P.D. James.  A continuation of Austen's Pride and Prejudice.  While not my first choice of book to read, I tound the story interesting enough to finish - probably only because I was listening to it on CD and the narrator was excellent.

*

I'm back...

So...I thought the all-wonderful facebook would be the perfect outlet for my book blog.  WRONG.  It was absolutely convenient when it came to blogging on the go.  However, everything else was yucky (nice vocab, huh?) - no way to link posts, label posts, archive books, etc.  So, I'm back.  Coming up are the few books I posted on fb.

Glad to be back; hope you are too :)

I've moved.

I decided to start a facebook page rather than blog.  I'll keep this blog open for anyone who wants to access books already posted.  Any future books will be posted to the Always Literary facebook page.  Check it out!!  Sorry for the inconvience if you're not in facebook.  Your welcome for the convenience if you already use facebook.  :p to you if you're just a complainer.

Come "LIKE" us on facebook!!  https://www.facebook.com/AlwaysLiterary

bye.

Distant Waves

by Suzanne Weyn

A great tale of five sisters, their mother, Spiritualism, and the Titanic.  While this is NOT a true story, it does include a few historical figures and events.  I didn't mean to read it so quickly, but I got caught up in it and wanted to know how it ended...FUN book!!

***

Wait Till Helen Comes

by Mary Downing Hahn

This ghost story was such a thriller!  It's appropriate for maybe age 10+, but I loved it!  It was just scary enough to keep me interested and curious, but not so scary I couldn't read it at night (that may not the case for youngsters, though - this may be a daylight book for them).  A blended family moves to rural USA, into a church-converted-house.  As they are struggling to get settled, unsettling things start to happen...BOO!
Hee hee hee.  Fun to read aloud while camping, or whatever.

****

Darkest Mercy

by  Melissa Marr

This is the fifth and final book in the Wicked Lovely series.  As I read each book, I was excited to see how each character grew and developed and influenced the story.  Each book is independent enough to enjoy on their own, but still intertwined enough to make connections and keep my interest.  I wasn't sure how the author would "tie up loose ends", so to speak, but I found her writing fun to read.  Well done!

***

Radiant Shadows

by Melissa Marr

This is book four in the Wicked Lovely series.  This book focuses on Ani, the halfling daughter of Gabriel (of the Dark Court).  I was excited to see how the author expanded yet another character from the previous books and how successful it would be.  She did it!  Ani is more than just a "pup" now.  Fun read!  One F-word, but clean otherwise.  I enjoyed it!

***

Jane Vows Vengence

by Michael Thomas Ford

Last book in the trilogy bring Jane face to face with marriage...hmmm.  What. To. Do.  After quite the adventure, Jane finally figures it out.  Fun, easy, silly summer read.  Great for a weekend book or something to take you away from reality for a short vacation.

***

Jane Goes Batty

by Micheal Thomas Ford

Second book in the Jane Bites Back series.  This silly twist on Jane Austen being a vampire is a quick, fun, light-hearted read.  It's corny, slightly predictable, and cheesy.  But - I liked it!  If you need an escape for a day or two, but don't want anything deep or thought-provoking, this is a great book to read.  On to the next book...


***

Thirteen Reasons Why

by Jay Asher

Profound.  I haven't had a book impact my way of thinking in a very long time.  This book did just that.  As the main character, Clay, listens to a series of tapes from a friend, one realizes just how little things every day can affect a person - for good OR bad.  Simple things such as a smile can make the difference for someone who needed a reason to keep trying - or not.  EVERYONE age 12+ should read this...hands down.  Suicide is not a mental state to be taken lightly.  I feel a little soap-boxy but if this book can influence the little things you do (or don't) each day...GREAT!

****

Fragile Eternity

by Melissa Marr

This is book 3 in the Wicked Lovely series.  If you enjoy a world where humans and faeries coexist (sort of), you'll like the premise of this series.  Book 3 continues to tale of Aislinn, Seth, and Kieran - their struggle to find a balance among the three of them.  I enjoyed reading this; I found myself wondering about what would happen next as I was doing other things; I would recommend this book for young adults.  There was one F-word (lame), but clean other than that.  As with most young adult books, sex is a topic, but no details.

***

The Education of Bet

by  Lauren Baratz-Logsted

This short book was thoroughly entertaining.  I kept thinking it shouldn't be so fun to read.  I young girl wants an education so badly she's willing to impersonate a boy...in a time that was unheard of!  Great book for young adults (especially girls) who need a giggle and maybe a little perspective on their own life.  Fun and easy to read!

***

The Little Giant of Aberdeen County

by Tiffany Baker

What an insightful book!  A young girl, living in a painfully small town, endures challenges, trials, hardships, and and life in general.  Somehow she makes it through.  I LOVED this book!!  Definitely a good reminder of how people should be treated - and a wake up call to actually doing it daily.  You MUST READ this.  You'll be a better person for it :)

****

Wonderstruck

by Brian Selznick

I recently read The Invention of Hugo Cabret by the same author and found his style completely captivating.  I picked up Wonderstruck at the library a couple of weeks ago, but had a few other books to get through first.  Also, I found the size the book to be a little intimidating (Huge!!), so it got put on the back burner until yesterday.  I started in the morning, read some after lunch, and finished after dinner...with several breaks between.  Like Hugo, the pictures told as much of the story as the words.  With two simultaneous storylines, it was exciting to see how they would come together.  I would definitely recommend this book for boys or girls age 10+.  It is a wonderful story of childhood sorrow, overcoming obstacles, and doing the best you can in a difficult situation.  If a person does the best he knows how, he often finds life will come together to an unexpected happiness.

****

The Night Circus

by Erin Morgenstern

I wasn't sure what to expect when I began this book.  As I continued to read, I found myself wondering if this could really happen.  There are several characters who become real very quickly.  Imagine being part of a circus.  Now imagine that circus is only open at night.  The wonders and talents are fascinating.  It was an exciting tale; one that kept my attention and my imagination captivated.  I would absolutely recommend this book to anyone who likes a different perspective, enjoys a little creativity, and wants to be enveloped in the possibilities of the impossible.  No coarse language, no graphic violence, no sex.  What more could you ask for?!  It is a challenging read, so I would suggest high school at least for comprehension.

****

Ink Exchange

by Melissa Marr

This is the follow-up book to Wicked Lovely.  It focuses on a different character, but expands on the world of fey and their interactions with humans.  I liked it...a couple swear words. Allusion to drug use, and the after affects of rape...no details, just that it happened.  The book was a quick read, a great escape and fun to read!
Definitely not for young readers, but maybe 14+ depending on maturity.

***

The Twin's Daughter

by Lauren Baratz-Logsted

I found this book as a free Kindle book from Amazon.com.  I like free things, so I downloaded it.  Taking place in London during Victorian times, propriety is all the rage in the upper echelon of society.  When  her mother's identical twin makes an appearance, Lucy's life would change.  This new relation  changes the family in ways Lucy would never suspect.  In the end, Lucy is better for all she endures.  Great book!!  Not graphic, but details enough to keep a reader interested.  Young adult, not juvenile.

***

Al Capone Does My Shirts

by Gennifer Choldenko

Having been to Alcatraz (just a tour, not a stay), I am interested in reading more about it.  This story is of a boy who has just moved to the Rock and is trying to adjust.  His family doesn't make the transition any easier.  Set in 1935, I was intrigued.  Great for age 10 up to adults.  Quick read, entertaining!

****

Just a little reminder...

I recently spoke with someone who checks this blog for her personal reading.  She asked about a book I had really enjoyed and as she described it, I couldn't for the life of me remember it.  Come to find out, we read completely different books, both with the same title.  Please check the authors when you search for books from this site.  (hee hee hee).  I am not responsible for what graphic, dark, foul, book you may encounter that shares a title with one I've read...and I've read my share of graphic books...just a little reminder.

Keep Reading!!
:)

The Invention of Hugo Cabret

by Brian Selznick

This book club selection was one I found intimidating upon check out from the library....it's approximately 1-1/2" thick.  However, upon beginning the book, I found myself completely taken in and had finished the book in under 2 hours.  The pictures tell what words can't and the words give life to the characters and their story.  I won't say much more - we haven't had club yet to discuss this book - I will say that I would HIGHLY recommend this for anyone age 10+.  It was quite the adventure!

****

Beautiful Days

by Anna Godbersen

This second Bright Young Things novel continues the stories of Cordelia, Astrid, and Letty.  They each embark on adventures that keep them together, tear them apart and help them realize where their priorities lie.  It's a little "soapy" as far as love/hate...blah blah.  But I love it!  I find myself day dreaming about a summer on Long Island with completely different cares than I have now.  If you're looking for an escape and adventure, this is a book you'll enjoy.  If you're looking to analyze, break down, and scrutinize the details, don't bother.  This book gives historical information without being mundane.  Just enjoy the story for the sake of a stay-cation.

***

Ape House

by Sara Gruen

After enjoying Water for Elephants so much, I thought I'd give Ms. Gruen another try.  She did not disappoint. She managed to make primates interesting enough that I'm ready to google them.  There is love, tension, passion, disappointment, sorrow, fear, and more.  Gruen made animal research something I could relate to and the stories that coincided with the apes were intriguing.  Definitely a great book!  (a few F-words, definitely an adult theme as the primates features are known for their casual and spontaneous sexual acts).

****

Miss Peregrine's Home for Peculiar Children

by Ransom Riggs

What a marvelous tale!  A young boy grows up hearing the fascinating tales of his grandfather's youth as a Jewish refugee in an orphanage in Wales during WWII.  As a teenager, this boy begins to wonder of the truth of these tales.  Deciding they are fiction, he is sorrowful when his grandfather dies a questionable death.  He then embarks on quite an adventure!
Interesting story.  Quick read.  I thoroughly enjoyed it!!

****

The Great Gatsby

by F. Scott Fitzgerald

So, having the LAMEST English teacher is high school, I was never required to read this.  I was intrigued after it was mentioned in relation to a few other books I've read about the 1920's and 30's.  So...I read it...it was interesting.  I have to say, my interest was piqued, but I didn't love it.  However, I really liked the writing.
Fitzgerald's style is so unique.  Regardless of what's written, it's fun to read his words and how they're put together.  I would recommend this book if you like to read "the classics".  If you're looking for quick-paced entertainment, this is NOT it.  Still, it's worth your time to read it, do a little soul-searching based on the characters, then move on.

***

The Red Tent

by Anita Daimant

I've always enjoyed historical fiction, but this book brought me to a whole new level.  I don't know as much about life during biblical times as I'd like to know.  I found a woman's perspective intriguing and insightful.  I know much of this tale is fictionalized, but just catching a glimpse of Jacob (yes, the very Jacob with a son who wore a colorful coat) and his family and what life might have been like for them was fantastic.  I probably won't go to church on Sunday and begin discussing the 12 tribes of Israel, however, I will appreciate their lifestyle a little more.  Wonderful.  Descriptive.  Exciting.  Tragic.  Magical.  Well done.
Not a read for a younger audience, but no content an adult wouldn't appreciate (I think).

****

The Thirteenth Tale

by Diane Setterfield


I didn't have any expectation when I began this book.  I knew nothing about it, but liked the title.  As I read the first few chapters, my mind wandered a little as to where the story might go.  By the time I was half way through the book, I couldn't put it down.  The last few chapters had me on the edge of my seat to know how all the loose ends would come together.  I was not disappointed.  A friend was telling me she had begun reading the book.  The word she used to describe it was:  interesting.  I often use that word to infer something unusual but also unimportant or odd in a negative way.  I use the word interesting now to describe this book with the following synonyms:  unusual, captivating, unexpected, charming, disarming, odd, keeps attention, addictive, inviting, fabulous!  What a great book!!  I would recommend for young adults and adults.  There is no language.  There are scenes of violence and disturbance, but it is inferred and only as graphic as your mind allows it to be.


****

Torment

by Kate Lauren

I literally couldn't put this book down (it's an ebook on my phone, ha ha).  Seriously, I was hooked from page 1.  I didn't realize there are 5 book in this series.  Now I have to go track down #3-5 so I don't go crazy wondering what happens next!  Seriously a GREAT book.  Clean (I don't recall major swearing...but I tend to skim over it), but still exciting.

****

Fallen

by Lauren Kate

I read this book in 1 1/2 days.  It's an ebook I got for free, so I put it on the back burner for quite a while...what a mistake!  Through the entire book, I was stumped as to what was going to happen next and where the plot would take me.  I couldn't put it down!  Teenager, Lucinda "Luce" is sent to reform school after an accident that resulted in the death of a friend.  After that, each day is a new adventure.  What a great book!!  There are a couple of swear words, but clean otherwise.
The next book is Torment.  I can't wait to start it!
***

Wicked Lovely

by Melissa Marr


This fictional tale attempts to explain a few little things in daily life:  why you trip over nothing as you walk down the sidewalk, why it feels like someone is watching you when there's no one there, among others.  What a great story of love, choices, and courage.  This story includes a variety of fey (fairies) and a select few humans.  Geared to young adults, this is a simple read.  There are a few curses (including "F").  Fun story!


***

Rules of Civility

by Amor Towles

I thought this would be a story set in the 1930's; full of intrigue, scandal, and fun.  Well, it is, but not like I thought.  It is a reminiscent tale of days gone by.  I enjoyed reading it, but when it was over, I felt like nothing had happened.  A little drab.  A slice of sorrow and regret.  Still, an interesting insight into Manhattan life in the late 1930's.

**!

The Kite Runner

by Khaled Hossieni

What an impressive tale of life as an Afghan middle class child.  I found myself fascinated by the nuances of life...school all summer, break all winter.  Also, the class system still in place in the 20th century.  The story takes place from the 1960's to the 1990's and is riveting.  I usually struggle getting involved in a tale of fictionized life (meaning, could be nonfiction), but I was captured by the first few chapters.  Well written, insightful, and an ending that didn't disappoint.  Well done.

***!

City of Fallen Angels

by Cassandra Clare


So, the only benefit to having the entire family down with the flu is:  lots of time to read.  This is the fourth (and I thought final) book in the Immortal Instruments series.  As always, the story and characters had me going from the start.  I love Clare's writing, even the somewhat cheesy love story.  I have to admit, as I got nearer to the end, I was waiting for all the loose ends to wrap up.  They never did.  In fact, when I put the book down, I was so...lost for words...that I wanted to scream!  Great book.  Exciting.  Captivating.  I didn't love the end - I hope it isn't the end of the series.  Still worth reading.


***

City of Glass

by Cassandra Clare

Book 3 in The Mortal Instruments series.  I keep thinking the next book will be a little disappointing, but each one is captivating, interesting, and hard to put down.  Clary, Simon, Jace, and the rest are still battling Valentine and his minions.  They are faced with difficult choices, family crises, and of course, young love, awww.  Definitely worth reading and sharing with others!

****

NEW LIST OF BOOKS!

So, I just found a GREAT list on GoodReads. It is a list of suggested books for book clubs. I'm in a book club, but like to read more than one book each month. I thought this would be a good place to start reading books that aren't necessarily in the Young Adult Fiction section at the library (although I will still read those, too). There were too many to add to my "to reads" list on the side of my blog, so I thought I'd list them all here! Enjoy!

The Time Traveler's Wife by Audrey Niffeneger

The Glass Castle by Jeanette Walls

My Sister's Keeper by Jodi Picoult

Memoirs of a Geisha by Arthur Golden

The Red Tent by Anita Diamant

The Thirteenth Tale by Diane Setterfield

The Handmaid's Tale by Margaret Atwood

The Other Boleyn Girl by Philippa Gregory

Room by Emma Donoghue

The Great Gatsby by F. Scott Fitzgerald

Girl With a Pearl Earring by Tracy Chevalier

The Color Purple by Alice Walker

I only got through the first 100 on the list...these are the ones I haven't already read and would like to...Look Out Librarian!!!

My Abandonment

by Peter Rock

I had no idea what this book was about, but was intrigued by this comment on the back cover: "This beautiful, strange novel takes us into the foreign country where those called homeless are at home, the city is wilderness, and the greater wilderness lies beyond. Fascinating and moving, it tells with great tenderness how human love goes wrong." - Ursula K. LeGuin

I didn't know what that meant, but after reading the book there's no better way to describe this story. 2-3 "F" words (in context, but still...).

I am still pondering different parts of this story, even after putting it down.

***

61 Hours

by Lee Child

I don't usually grab "thrillers" off the shelf, but this was given to my mom, so I thought I'd give it a try. It is part of the "Reacher" series (13+books). Wow! I can't say I had to probe the depth of my soul to enjoy it - in fact, I love that I didn't! I was immediately sucked in. I was hooked page by page throughout. I know that's what makes it a thriller, but I would definitely read another.

***

Three Maids for a Crown

by Ella March Chase

I must be on a little kick of royalty. After reading Chase's The Virgin Queen's Daughter I decided I had to read the "prequel" of sorts. This book is the story of the Grey Sisters: Jane, Katherine, and Mary. I had heard these names here and there, but new nothing about them. This book is fiction, but based on historical events and facts of the era. The sisters are cousin to Queen Mary (Bloody Mary) Tudor. The tale gives event points of view from all three sisters throughout the book. I thoroughly enjoyed it and even found the ending to be different from what I had anticipated. Good Read!!

***

p.s. I might suggest reading this one BEFORE The Virgin Queen's Daughter just for a better sense of timeline and sequence.

The Virgin Queen's Daughter

by Ella March Chase

So...! I was more excited to read about life as a courtier in England during the Renaissance than the other stuff. As I got into, oh chapter 2, I was hooked! What a great tale of life during the reign of Elizabeth I (Tudor family). She was one tough cookie. This story is one of fiction, but based on speculation and rumors that have lasted through the years. The context and main characters (Elizabeth I, etc) are real and many instances did actually happen. The author's notes at the end clarify any misconceptions as well. What a fun book and great way to better understand life in England in the mid 1500's.

****

The Devil in the White City

by Erik Larson

Whoa. What a ride! I don't generally enjoy non-fiction, however, this book was written to be enjoyed like a novel. Chicago is full of life, vigor, intrigue, and many other things that make this tale a Must-Read! The World's Fair was an amazing feat, that, given current laws, etc, would never be pulled off today. Exciting, captivating, and disturbing at times. You must read this!!

*****