The Infernal Devices: A Personal Note + A Giveaway!

When someone comes to my blog, they usually expect a review about a contemporary story -- either YA or adult.  Based on my reading tastes, that's a very typical thing to see here, right?  Well inside this reader are many layers of story-telling that I adore so much.  The genre does not always have to be contemporary for me to call it a favorite; sometimes it's the story that captures my heart regardless of the realm it's told in.

I was first introduced to Cassandra Clare's writing long before my days of book blogging.  It was her Mortal Instruments series that I quickly became addicted to and found myself wanting more.  This woman has a way with words that tell a story way beyond just a book of pages, separated by chapters.  She had the ability to engage me as a reader from her first series, but it's her second series, The Infernal Devices, that completely stole my heart and whisked me away to a book lover's dream!

After just finishing Clockwork Princess, the last installment in The Infernal Devices, I have a feeling of both happiness and sadness.  This story took my heart soaring, but it also slammed it down, bearing its vulnerability.  I was fearful of what's to come, but so very anxious to find out at the same time.  I love when stories give a finality that you can't predict, even though you think you can.  Her surprises left me very satisfied, but the ending is somewhat bittersweet.  I'm not quite ready to say goodbye to this world, to these characters.  The genius of it all is that you don't have to because Clare has intertwined both these series so beautifully that their stories never truly end.   There are connections and links all throughout, and she's continuing with a third series in this Shadowhunter world in 2015!

So this is me recommending an author to those who have yet to read her books, or persuade those who began her stories to continue on with them -- trust me, you won't regret it!  Reading is such a huge passion of mine and I love when books have the ability to cause me to stay up late, reading into the wee hours of the morning.  You tell yourself, just one more chapter and then bed.  Yet there you are, at midnight, staring at THE END and thinking - wow, just wow.

And what's better than recommending? How about offering a chance to discover The Infernal Devices by Cassandra Clare by entering my giveaway below. Up for grabs is the complete set of Clockwork Angel, Clockwork Prince, and Clockwork Princess.  I want to give someone else the opportunity to lose themselves in the world that Clare has created and to be able to fall in love with her characters that I hold so close to my literary heart.

(this giveaway is open to US residents only & ends on 4/8/13 at 12:00a.m.)

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Waiting On: This Song Will Save Your Life by Leila Sales

This Song Will Save Your Life
by Leila Sales
To be published: September 17, 2013 by Farrar, Straus & Giroux (BYR)

Making friends has never been Elise Dembowski’s strong suit. All throughout her life, she’s been the butt of every joke and the outsider in every conversation. When a final attempt at popularity fails, Elise nearly gives up. Then she stumbles upon a warehouse party where she meets Vicky, a girl in a band who accepts her; Char, a cute, yet mysterious disc jockey; Pippa, a carefree spirit from England; and most importantly, a love for DJing.

Told in a refreshingly genuine and laugh-out-loud funny voice, THIS SONG WILL SAVE YOUR LIFE is an exuberant novel about identity, friendship, and the power of music to bring people together. [goodreads]

You guys. I am ridiculously excited for this novel by Leila Sales. I adored her writing in Past Perfect (and still need to read Mostly Good Girls - which needs to be rectified stat). From the title to the cover, to all the musical references.. I just know I will connect with this book.

Bonus: check out the cover reveal post that also has the playlist for the book!


"Waiting On" Wednesday is a weekly event, hosted by Jill at Breaking the Spine, that spotlights upcoming releases that we're eagerly anticipating.

My Top Ten Books I Recommend the Most

This week's Top 10 Tuesday prompt asks which books do we recommend the most?  Oh man, I am a serious book pusher.  I love love LOVE recommending books to people.  I mean, hello?! It's why I adore doing this blogging thing so much.  If I can get one person to pick up a book because I liked it, then score! Mission accomplished.

This also extends over into my personal life, and why I am becoming a teacher.  Reading is such a huge passion of mine and I value the importance it can bring to an individual's life.  I also understand a lot of kids hate to read.  But I feel that if I can find that perfect book, for that perfect student, then my job as a teacher is fulfilled as well.

Be sure to check out The Broke and the Bookish for more details on this awesome weekly feature.

1. Jessi Kirby - I loved Moonglass and In Honor, and cannot wait to share my recommendations for Golden! It's hard for me to choose just one novel by this author to recommend because I feel each of these stories are something so many can relate to.

2. Jennifer Echols - Again, another author who I recommend multiple novels by.  Forget You and Endless Summer are two of my older favorites of hers, but Such a Rush is one I recommend to a lot of people now.

3. Jenny Han - The Summer I Turned Pretty series will never grow old being recommended on this blog of mine.  It holds everything I love about contemporary YA, from the setting to the cast of characters, it's the complete package and screams GINGER BOOK!

4. Jill Shalvis - Probably the most popular adult author who receives the most exposure on my blog.  I love her Lucky Harbor series and have recommended it to countless readers.  I have yet to find someone who read it based on my recommendation and not enjoyed it.

5. Megan McCafferty - This was a popular recommendation to me by some of my most trusted blogger friends, so naturally I turned around and recommended her books to everyone I know as well.  The Jessica Darling series is perfection, in my opinion.

6. John Corey Whaley - Where Things Come Back blew me away and immediately after reading it, I felt the urge to recommend it to everyone I knew.  And I did just that.  Corey is an exceptional writer and I want everyone to experience his debut!

7. Trish Doller - This lady knows how to write, simple as that.  Before I even read a word from her I had this feeling I'd love it, and that feeling came true.. not once, but twice.  I love to support authors and recommend their books to people who can connect on a personal level with them.  Trish's books are definitely those kind.

8. Jeri Smith-Ready - After this series was recommended to me, I immediately fell in love with the fandom that surrounded it.  Jeri connects with her readers on such a personal level and I admire that!  I'm picky when it comes to paranormal reads, but this one felt like everything I love rolled into such an intriguing story.  The Shade series is a must read!

9. Rainbow Rowell - I love to recommend this author because she writes both amazing YA and adult.  I adored Eleanor and Park, but fell insanely in love with Attachments.  I think she's a great author to recommend to any reader type.  Her cross over appeal can grab such a wide audience. 

10. Huntley Fitzpatrick - I recommended her debut novel so much last year!  It was one of my most favorite reads of 2012, so how could I not?  My Life Next Door made me laugh and swoon, and all the emotions in between.  A book that causes that many feelings deserves to be recommended to others!

Nantucket Blue by Leila Howland

Nantucket Blue by Leila Howland
Published: May 7, 2013 by Disney Hyperion
Received: egalley for review via netgalley - thanks!

For Cricket Thompson, a summer like this one will change everything. A summer spent on Nantucket with her best friend, Jules Clayton, and the indomitable Clayton family. A summer when she’ll make the almost unattainable Jay Logan hers. A summer to surpass all dreams.

Some of this turns out to be true. Some of it doesn’t.

When Jules and her family suffer a devastating tragedy that forces the girls apart, Jules becomes a stranger whom Cricket wonders whether she ever really knew. And instead of lying on the beach working on her caramel-colored tan, Cricket is making beds and cleaning bathrooms to support herself in paradise for the summer.

But it’s the things Cricket hadn’t counted on--most of all, falling hard for someone who should be completely off-limits--that turn her dreams into an exhilarating, bittersweet reality.

A beautiful future is within her grasp, and Cricket must find the grace to embrace it. If she does, her life could be the perfect shade of Nantucket blue. [goodreads]

I feel the sudden craving for fried clams and a tall glass of lemonade, while burying my toes in warm golden sand as waves crash near by.  Yes, this book has left me craving all the essences a New England summer possesses.  Though I have never been to Nantucket, this story painted such a vivid image that I could literally taste the fresh salty air and hear the sounds of what a quaint New England beach side town has to offer.  I am a huge fan of summer reads, especially those set at the beach; so I knew immediately I'd be drawn to this story written by Leila Howland.  It's a debut I had been anticipating, and it was the perfect start to a steady flow of summer reads to come.

Cricket has just been invited to spend the summer with her best friend Jules, and her family, at their coveted Nantucket summer house.  She's always heard all the stories, seen all the pictures, and dreamed about experiencing her own summer memories there; so when Jules' mom passes along the invitation it's a no brainer -- Cricket will be spending her summer on Nantucket island with the Claytons.  It's also a relief for Cricket because she gets to escape the dreary home life of her not-so-recently divorced mother, that has sunk into a deep hole of depression, almost pulling Cricket down with her.  So the plan to be bathed in warm sunshine among her most favorite family ever is the complete summer getaway package.

That perfect package crumbles to a million tiny pieces before Cricket ever steps foot off the ferry and on to Nantucket island.  A tragedy among the Clayton household has put a wedge between Cricket and Jules.  Being the loyal best friend that she is, Cricket takes every opportunity to be there for Jules, but in return she receives a cold best friend who wants nothing to do with her.  Their plans to spend the summer together in Nantucket are ruined, but Cricket refuses to take no for an answer.  She makes plans of her own and finds herself a job at a cute little Inn on the island, hoping to restore her friendship with Jules and create the summer she once envisioned.

As the reader I found myself connecting more with the setting, than the characters.  Yes, I was invested in Cricket's story and how it would all play out, but truthfully it was the scenery that whisked me away and took me to a place that I did not want to leave.  The relationships that Cricket encounters is both tested and revived, set against an unforgettable summer landscape.  Leila Howland did a beautiful job of intertwining multiple layers to this story that wasn't just about Cricket, and somehow, these different paths all lead back to Nantucket. Overall I enjoyed the story, but I felt the ending left a few lose strands.  Perhaps Howland wrote it this way intentionally, that some of life's messy happenings can't always be summed up in a final chapter.

I get that feeling of sadness when summer comes to a close.  It's a detachment we all must face as we say goodbye to hot, sunny days and look ahead to the cool breeze blowing in.  Leila Howland portrays this ending of summer so well that it reminds me of my own departures for a season I hold so close to my heart.  Nantucket Blue is the perfect dose of summer goodness to jump-start your summer reading.  I highly recommend throwing this one in your beach bag, just don't forget that tall glass of lemonade!

Ginger's Shelve It

I've been a big fan of Magan & Estelle's [Rather Be Reading] Shelve It feature for quite some time, so I thought I'd extend my own version here at GReads!  It's a post to feature the books I received recently, re-post links to what's happened on the blog, and share any other bookish news.  Thank you Magan & Estelle for allowing me to tag-along with this feature!

The Books:

My Infernal Devices series by Cassandra Clare is complete!

I got my copy of Clockwork Princess this week & started reading it immediately!!

Purchased:
Clockwork Princess (The Infernal Devices, #3) by Cassandra Clare [add to goodreads]
All He Ever Needed (Kowalski Family, #4) by Shannon Stacey [add to goodreads]
All He Ever Dreamed (Kowalski Family, #6) by Shannon Stacey [add to goodreads]
Waiting for You by Shey Stahl [add to goodreads]

Gifted:
Ride with Me by Ruthie Knox [add to goodreads] - thank you Capillya!
Along Came Trouble by Ruthie Knox [add to goodreads] - thank you Capillya!
The Best Man by Kristan Higgins [add to goodreads] - thank you Jess!

From Publisher/Netgalley:
The Corner of Bitter and Sweet by Robin Palmer [add to goodreads]
Truth or Dare by Jacqueline Green [add to goodreads]
The Lucy Variations by Sara Zarr [add to goodreads]

The Links:

[Friday, March 22] Review: Exclusively Yours by Shannon Stacey
[Wednesday, March 20] Waiting On: The Book of Broken Hearts by Sarah Ockler
[Tuesday, March 19] My Top Ten Books I Had to Buy, But Haven't Read Yet
[Monday, March 18] Review: Requiem (Delirium, #3) by Lauren Oliver
[Friday, March 15] From YA to Adult - Take the Leap!

The Bookish News:

2013 is a heavy year of conclusions in YA series.  I just recently read & reviewed Requiem by Lauren Oliver, the last in her Delirium series here.  I was pleased with its finality, but it still leaves a bittersweet feeling of an end to such an incredible story.  I just got Clockwork Princess this week, which is probably one of my most highly anticipated reads of the year, and I am so eager to keep reading -- yet scared to finish, too.  I adore this series (maybe more than Clare's previous, The Mortal Instruments? I'm not sure).  Regardless, it will be another bittersweet finale to encounter.  And then there's the conclusion to the Divergent series by Veronica Roth.  Oh man.  I don't even know how all of that will end.  I love that we're getting to experience all the endings this year, but sort of sad, too.  Perhaps this opens the door for new books to come?  And more series to fall in love with?

Exclusively Yours by Shannon Stacey

Exclusively Yours (Kowalski Family, #1) by Shannon Stacey
Published: December 20, 2011 by HQN Books
Received: purchased ebook from B&N

When Keri Daniels' editor finds out she has previous carnal knowledge of reclusive bestselling author Joe Kowalski, she gives Keri a choice: get an interview or get a new job.

Joe's never forgotten the first girl to break his heart, so he's intrigued to hear Keri's back in town--and looking for him. Despite his intense need for privacy, he'll grant Keri an interview if it means a chance to finish what they started in high school.

He proposes an outrageous plan--for every day she survives with his family on their annual camping and four-wheeling trip, Keri can ask one question. Keri agrees; she's worked too hard to walk away from her career.

But the chemistry between them is still as potent as the bug spray, Joe's sister is out to avenge his broken heart and Keri hasn't ridden an ATV since she was ten. Who knew a little blackmail, a whole lot of family and some sizzling romantic interludes could make Keri reconsider the old dream of Keri & Joe 2gether 4ever. [goodreads]

I was in the mood for a fun, romantic adult book that would capture my attention and read like I was watching a movie.  Shannon Stacey gave me just that + so much more in her first book, Exclusively Yours, among the Kowalski Family series.  I jumped the gun and read the third book in this series late last year, but was told I could read these stories out of order and wouldn't feel lost.  It's completely true, but it was still nice to see how it all started with the first book.

The Kowalski family is introduced in this novel as a large, overbearing group that means well and just wants to see each family member be happy and succeed in life.  I loved the individual stories this book held, giving a sneak peek at some of the relationships that would be explored further in upcoming books.  The main focus of this story is about Keri and Joe, high school sweethearts that have a smoking hot past!  Though it's been several years since they've seen each other, one would think a broken heart should be minded by now -- considering Keri left Joe just after graduation to chase her own career dreams in California.  But as soon as they're forced back together once again, it's obvious those broken pieces have never truly healed.

The setting for this story takes place at the Kowalski family campground that the family attends every year.  Keri finds herself on this wilderness vacation with the family just after Joe cons her into going along in order to get a story out of him for her job that's on the line.  After all, he's now become a recluse famous author, and if anyone can get a story out of him, it would be Keri!  The tension is seeping from the pages after just one night spent in the cabin, alone together.  I could not flip the pages fast enough to find out if they'd end up in the same bed before the vacation was over!  I loved how Stacey took two characters who knew each other so well, yet reintroduced them as strangers discovering the other for the first time.

If you're a fan of contemporary adult fiction that focuses heavily on romance and all the feel good things that go along with it, then I highly recommend picking up this series by Shannon Stacey.  She's definitely becoming a favorite of mine to read in this genre and I can not wait to read more about these lively, interesting characters among the Kowalski family.

Waiting On: The Book of Broken Hearts by Sarah Ockler

The Book of Broken Hearts
by Sarah Ockler
To be published: May 21, 2013 by Simon Pulse

When all signs point to heartbreak, can love still be a rule of the road? A poignant and romantic novel from the author of Bittersweet and Twenty Boy Summer.

Jude has learned a lot from her older sisters, but the most important thing is this: The Vargas brothers are notorious heartbreakers. She’s seen the tears and disasters that dating a Vargas boy can cause, and she swore an oath—with candles and a contract and everything—to never have anything to do with one.

Now Jude is the only sister still living at home, and she’s spending the summer helping her ailing father restore his vintage motorcycle—which means hiring a mechanic to help out. Is it Jude’s fault he happens to be cute? And surprisingly sweet? And a Vargas?

Jude tells herself it’s strictly bike business with Emilio. Her sisters will never find out, and Jude can spot those flirty little Vargas tricks a mile away—no way would she fall for them. But Jude’s defenses are crumbling, and if history is destined to repeat itself, she’s speeding toward some serious heartbreak…unless her sisters were wrong?

Jude may have taken an oath, but she’s beginning to think that when it comes to love, some promises might be worth breaking. [goodreads]

I have high hopes that this will be my first Ockler book that I love. Unfortunately, her previous novels were not among my favorites. But there's something in that synopsis that grabs me, plus there's trusted recommendations from friends who have read it & told me I will love it. Really looking forward to this one!

"Waiting On" Wednesday is a weekly event, hosted by Jill at Breaking the Spine, that spotlights upcoming releases that we're eagerly anticipating.

My Top Ten Books I Had to Buy, But Haven't Read Yet

This week's Top Ten Tuesday prompt wants to know which books did you just HAVE to buy, but are still sitting on your shelf unread.  Oops!  I do this quite often.  A friend will tell me about a book, or I'll read an insane review that leads to an impulse purchase.  Once the book arrives, it somehow gets pushed aside.... and there it sits.  I have even more on my nook (I am horrible about doing this with ebooks - especially when they're so cheap!).

Be sure to check out The Broke and the Bookish for more details on this awesome weekly feature.

1. Jellicoe Road by Melina Marchetta
2. Graceling by Kristin Cashore
3. Will Grayson, Will Grayson by John Green & David Levithan
4. Anna Dressed in Blood by Kendare Blake
5. Heist Society by Ally Carter
6. What Happened to Goodbye by Sarah Dessen
7. Mostly Good Girls by Leila Sales
8. I'll Be There by Holly Goldberg Sloan
9. The Evolution of Mara Dyer by Michelle Hodkin
10. Throne of Glass by Sarah J. Maas

Requiem (Delirium, #3) by Lauren Oliver

Requiem (Delirium, #3) by Lauren Oliver
Published: March 5, 2013 by HarperTeen
Received: Purchased via Amazon

They have tried to squeeze us out, to stamp us into the past.

But we are still here.

And there are more of us every day.

Now an active member of the resistance, Lena has been transformed. The nascent rebellion that was under way in Pandemonium has ignited into an all-out revolution in Requiem, and Lena is at the center of the fight.

After rescuing Julian from a death sentence, Lena and her friends fled to the Wilds. But the Wilds are no longer a safe haven—pockets of rebellion have opened throughout the country, and the government cannot deny the existence of Invalids. Regulators now infiltrate the borderlands to stamp out the rebels, and as Lena navigates the increasingly dangerous terrain, her best friend, Hana, lives a safe, loveless life in Portland as the fiancée of the young mayor.

Maybe we are driven crazy by our feelings.

Maybe love is a disease, and we would be better off without it.

But we have chosen a different road.

And in the end, that is the point of escaping the cure: We are free to choose.

We are even free to choose the wrong thing.

Requiem is told from both Lena’s and Hana’s points of view. The two girls live side by side in a world that divides them until, at last, their stories converge. [goodreads]

This book brought out such the anxious reader in me; and that was even before I had a copy in my hands!  I have followed this series from the beginning, anticipating the release of each new installment, terrified of what would come next and how it would all end.  But at the same time savoring each beautiful story as Oliver wove together words and phrases that clutched my heart so tightly, only to let go just long enough before another wave hit.

At the end of book two, Pandemonium, I felt myself in such a state as that: Pandemonium.  How could you end it that way, Oliver??!!  If there is ever an award for most gut-wrenching cliff hanger endings, that one would win gold!  So, just as many other readers of the series felt, I was beyond anxious to read Requiem and find out how it all ends.

We're thrown back into the Wilds immediately alongside Lena and the family she's adapted to.  But it's not a slow pace either, it's the forever moving forward tone that sets this series in motion.  Lena and her pack are destined to find a purpose in the choices they've made; in the lives they've created for themselves.  Right from the beginning there is a sense of foreboding.  I had this feeling of wanting to look ahead, but refusing to spoil myself.

What I love about this series is that Oliver doesn't center it around one relationship, or one idea.  Yes, there's a central theme, but there are individual stories branching off from this central theme, creating stories inside of stories.  The most focused story lies between Lena and Alex.  The boy who showed her love.  The boy who infected her.  The boy who saved her life - or did he just set her free?  I was anxious to see where this would go, worried I may not like its conclusion.  But I will say this, I was satisfied with the finale that Oliver hands us.  It builds on the fact that the story is much bigger than one person, or one theme.  Everything can't be wrapped up with a pretty bow on top.  I never got the sense from Oliver that she was writing a story to be portrayed that way, and so that is why I am pleased with the ending that was delivered.

There is a war, among the cured and uncureds; but also within each person, too.  This story is a representation of how one life can be changed, but in the big scheme of things that one life alters so much more.  The very last page, within the last few paragraphs, Oliver sums up this beautiful story so eloquently.  I admire her for finishing this novel the way she did.  Though it may not be loved among the masses, this reader closed the last chapter with a sense of finality.

From YA to Adult - Take the Leap!

I get asked quite a bit to recommend an adult book for those who mainly read YA.  I understand the reluctance one may feel about venturing into adult fiction territory when it's mainly YA that fills their shelves.  When you're so used to the easy, quick-pace that is constant in a lot of YA books, it can be difficult to switch gears and start reading something of the adult variety.  I've found in my reading tastes that basically anything in contemporary romance is what I am a fan of.  It's no longer just YA.  I am ever so thankful for friends who know my tastes and guided me down the path of adult contemporary fiction.  So I'm here to list a few of my favorites I've read (and plan to read soon), that I feel are worth giving a shot - especially for reluctant readers who tend to just stick with YA. 

Now keep in mind, these are adult titles, with adult content.  I would not recommend some of these to teen readers.  Though the themes are something most can relate to, I still understand the tone and subject matter may be too mature for some.

My One and Only by Kristan Higgins | my review | add to goodreads

Exclusively Yours by Shannon Stacey |  add to goodreads

Simply Irresistible by Jill Shalvis | my review | add to goodreads 

In the mood for something fun-loving, comical, sweet and un-put-downable?  These three authors are my go-to when I am wanting an adult contemporary that delivers in the romance, but also tells a story about friendship and family.  For YA readers who are reluctant to pick up an adult contemporary, these books are a perfect place to dip your feet in and get a little wet.  I guarantee you'll be coming back for more!

Stay by Allie Larkin | add to goodreads

How to Kill a Rock Star by Tiffanie DeBartolo | my review | add to goodreads

Attachments by Rainbow Rowell | my review | add to goodreads

These three novels pack a bit of a more dramatic punch, but still deliver the fun-loving laughable characters I love so much in the contemporaries I read.  I definitely recommend these books to YA readers who want to dive a little deeper than just skimming the surface for something light and airy.

Sultry with a Twist by Macy Beckett | my review | add to goodreads

Close Enough to Tough by Victoria Dahl | my review | add to goodreads

Star Cross by Jennifer Echols | my review | add to goodreads

I highly recommend these three books for fans of intense romance in the books they read.  Each story creates characters that are smoldering on the pages!  If you're a bit shy when it comes to romance, don't be afraid to step out of your comfort zone.  These novels will satisfy your craving for a romance that takes center stage, surrounded by a story that can back it up.

Are you a reader of both young adult and adult fiction?  Are there books you think would be a great starting point for reluctant readers who want to make the leap?  Please share in the comments!

Waiting On: Isla and the Happily Ever After by Stephanie Perkins

Isla and the Happily Ever After
by Stephanie Perkins
To be published: September 17, 2013 by Dutton

From the glittering streets of Manhattan to the moonlit rooftops of Paris, falling in love is easy for hopeless dreamer Isla and introspective artist Josh. But as they begin their senior year in France, Isla and Josh are quickly forced to confront the heartbreaking reality that happily-ever-afters aren’t always forever.

Their romantic journey is skillfully intertwined with those of beloved couples Anna and Étienne and Lola and Cricket, whose paths are destined to collide in a sweeping finale certain to please fans old and new. [goodreads]

It feels as though I've been waiting for this finale for quite some time.  I first fell in love with Perkins writing in Anna and the French Kiss, only to solidify that love affair in Lola and the Boy Next Door.  So I have high hopes for this conclusion!

"Waiting On" Wednesday is a weekly event, hosted by Jill at Breaking the Spine, that spotlights upcoming releases that we're eagerly anticipating.

My Top Ten Books on my Spring 2013 TBR List

This week's Top Ten Tuesday prompt wants to know which books are on your spring to-be-read list.  There are quite a few books coming out in the next few weeks that I am definitely eager to read.  While some of these are new releases, others are books that I have been meaning to read - and what better time than spring-time?!

Be sure to check out The Broke and the Bookish for more details on this awesome weekly feature.

1. This Is What Happy Looks Like by Jennifer E. Smith
2. That Time I Joined the Circus by J.J. Howard
3. The Moon and More by Sarah Dessen
4. Nantucket Blue by Leila Howland
5. The Art of Wishing by Lindsay Ribar
6. Infinite Sky by C.J. Flood
7. A Rogue by Any Other Name by Sarah MacLean
8. Forever and a Day by Jill Shalvis
9. Clockwork Princess by Cassandra Clare
10. Requiem by Lauren Oliver

*thank you to the publishers & netgalley for allowing me to read early copies of some of these.

Save the Date for: GOLDEN by Jessi Kirby

Save the Date is a fabulous feature created by the amazing Jamie from The Perpetual Page-Turner.  The idea behind this feature is to get the word out early for books we've read before the pub date, but our full review won't be posted until later, closer to its publication.

GOLDEN by Jessi Kirby is the type of story that will light a fire from deep within you and keep burning long after you've finished the last chapter.  There are so many beautiful, wonderful things for me to express about this novel, but I am going to wait until my review is posted to go into full detail.  Go ahead and pre-order a copy of this one, if you haven't already.  It's a book you'll want to devour as soon as it's available, and then revisit Kirby's eloquent imagery to savor over and over again.

About the Book From Simon & Schuster: Seventeen-year-old Parker Frost has never taken the road less traveled. Valedictorian and quintessential good girl, she’s about to graduate high school without ever having kissed her crush or broken the rules. So when fate drops a clue in her lap—one that might be the key to unraveling a town mystery—she decides to take a chance.

Julianna Farnetti and Shane Cruz are remembered as the golden couple of Summit Lakes High—perfect in every way, meant to be together forever. But Julianna’s journal tells a different story—one of doubts about Shane and a forbidden romance with an older, artistic guy. These are the secrets that were swept away with her the night that Shane’s jeep plunged into an icy river, leaving behind a grieving town and no bodies to bury.

Reading Julianna’s journal gives Parker the courage to start to really live—and it also gives her reasons to question what really happened the night of the accident. Armed with clues from the past, Parker enlists the help of her best friend, Kat, and Trevor, her longtime crush, to track down some leads. The mystery ends up taking Parker places that she never could have imagined. And she soon finds that taking the road less traveled makes all the difference.

Goodreads | Amazon | Barnes & Noble | IndieBound

Ginger's Shelve It

I've been a big fan of Magan & Estelle's [Rather Be Reading] Shelve It feature for quite some time, so I thought I'd extend my own version here at GReads!  It's a post to feature the books I received recently, re-post links to what's happened on the blog, and share any other bookish news.  Thank you Magan & Estelle for allowing me to tag-along with this feature!

The Books:

[See that pretty back drop? It's the headboard my dad custom made for me!]

[This book needed another view. Isn't that cover gorgeous?! 

My father brought it back for me from one of his recent visits to the UK.]

Purchased:
Requiem (Delirium, #3) by Lauren Oliver [add to goodreads]
I Hunt Killers (Jasper Dent, #1) by Barry Lyga [add to goodreads]
Strong Enough to Love by Victoria Dahl [add to goodreads]
Slow Summer Kisses by Shannon Stacey [add to goodreads]

Gifted:
Infinite Sky by C.J. Flood [add to goodreads]

The Links:

[Reviews...]

Opal (Lux, #3) by Jennifer L. Armentrout

The Reece Malcolm List by Amy Spalding

Catching Jordan by Miranda Kenneally

Holier Than Thou by Laura Buzo

Stealing Parker by Miranda Kenneally

Revenge of the Girl with the Great Personality by Elizabeth Eulberg

Things I Can't Forget by Miranda Kenneally

The Bookish News:

It seems like it's the season for cover reveals!  My friend and author Trish Doller debuted the cover for her next novel, Where the Stars Still Shine, at Making the Grade - check out the post HERE! The highly anticipated follow-up to Gayle Forman's Just One Day has a cover, too! Check out the exclusive cover reveal for Just One Year HERE!  Another highly anticipated release debuted its cover recently: Isla and the Happily Ever After by Stephanie Perkins.  You can see that cover HERE, as well as cover changes for her previous novels.  Tell me what you think about all these cover reveals.  I personally like each of them for separate reasons, but I may be partial to Trish's ;)

Things I Can't Forget by Miranda Kenneally

Things I Can't Forget (Hundred Oaks, #3) by Miranda Kenneally
Published: March 1, 2013 by Sourcebooks Fire
Received: ARC on loan from Estelle - thank you!

Companion to Catching Jordan and Stealing Parker.

Kate has always been the good girl. Too good, according to some people at school—although they have no idea the guilty secret she carries. But this summer, everything is different…

This summer she’s a counselor at Cumberland Creek summer camp, and she wants to put the past behind her. This summer Matt is back as a counselor too. He’s the first guy she ever kissed, and he’s gone from a geeky songwriter who loved The Hardy Boys to a buff lifeguard who loves to flirt…with her.

Kate used to think the world was black and white, right and wrong. Turns out, life isn’t that easy… [goodreads]

This particular story is the perfect example of how one author's writing can only get better and better as they continue to publish more novels.  I was impressed by the journey Kenneally took as a writer between her first novel, Catching Jordan, and her sophomore novel, Stealing Parker.  But this one?  It's sealed the deal for me.  I am a fan of her story-telling!  Things I Can't Forget is a much deeper story, touching on tough subject matters that can be very personal for a reader.  I had reservations, wondering if the themes were a bit too much for this audience, but Kenneally proved me wrong.  She took on a challenge and succeeded in my eyes.

Kate has just graduated high school and is planning to spend her summer working at the Cumberland Creek summer camp.  Her original plan was to be working along side her best friend, Emily, but after a break up in their friendship she's left to conquer the camp fires and cabins by herself.  There is a heavy religious theme through out this novel, and I must admit, I wasn't sure how I'd feel about this.  I don't typically read stories that express their words in this manner, so this was something new for me.  Kate grew up in her church, surrounded by her love from God.  She's been a devoted Christian all her life and has never tested His faith.  This brings me back to Kate's break up with Emily, which ultimately put Kate's faith to the test and left her friendless with a broken heart.

As she keeps her commitment to the summer camp program, she soon realizes that not every one who believes in God practices their Christianity in the same way she does.  Often times she's questioning what it all means.  How can young people be considered good, Christian teens; yet still want to share a cabin together - both girls and boys.  I admit that I had a hard time connecting to this aspect of the story because I was not brought up with a heavy religious background.  What may seem not that big of a deal to me, definitely stood out as a sin for Kate.

While working at the summer camp, Kate is reunited with a boy from her previous days as a camper at Cumberland Creek.  Matt was such a breath of fresh air to read about.  I adored his spirit and his sweet nature.  Immediately I knew he would bring great things to Kate's world.  He's the type of boy, who sure has made some mistakes, but he's still growing and learning, so you can't help but love him to pieces.  Their reconnection was definitely a favorite part of the story for me to read about.

I also admired the way Matt tested Kate.  He brought her out of her comfort zone, but never left her side.  He was the rock she needed during a time when everything else felt so complicated.  But like all things that can be confusing during a teen's life, soon Matt joined her list of confusions.  My heart went out to Kate as I watched the struggles she faced.  Wondering if what she's been taught her whole life, according to God, is the right thing; or is straying from her beliefs and venturing into new territory such a sin after all.  Kenneally portrayed Kate's struggles so vividly that I found myself wanting to shake Kate and show her that it's OK to have your own beliefs.  That there's no wrong answer when choosing your own path.

The relationships in this story and the setting of summer camp stole scene after scene for me.  For someone who never experienced summer camp like this, it was so much fun to relive my youth through the words Kenneally painted page after page.  In a sea of young adult novels, Things I Can't Forget is a nice reminder that we all have separate truths, and we're all searching for that "sign"; so don't give up when you think you've hit your wall -- someone may come along and surprise you, perhaps the same way this author has done for me.

This novel has concluded my casual read-along with Estelle and friends of Miranda Kenneally's books.  For someone who was hesitant on whether I'd connect to these books, I highly recommend picking them up and introducing a new young adult author to your literary world.  A huge thanks to Estelle for asking me to be a part of this!

A Special Look at Mother/Daughter Relationships in Books

Today is a special day in my world.  It would have been my mother's 62nd birthday.  In honor of this day, and in celebration of her, I thought I'd highlight some of my favorite mother/daughter relationships in books I've read.  While some are for personal reasons, the reflections I see in my own life; others are for attributes that I admire in a mother -- especially my own mother.  A mother/daughter relationship is a special bond, that even when one is long gone, it never truly breaks.  It lives on through memories and I still feel her presence guiding me.

The Summer I Turned Pretty by Jenny Han and Second Chance Summer by Morgan Matson both resemble what a strong mother is in my eyes.  There are two mothers in Han's Summer series that captured my heart.  While one is the fun-loving, forgiving type; the other is the quiet kind of strength that you don't realize is holding you up until you've begun to crumble yourself.  Matson's mother in Second Chance Summer is the epitome of what a mother/spouse is to be when times are beyond difficult.  Her strength helped carry that family to a place that no one ever wants to go, but her love created peace among all the heartache.

When I think of mothers, I think of unconditional love.  Their nurturing begins when we're just out of the womb and even continues on til the day we leave for college.  Both Unbreak My Heart by Melissa Walker and My Life Next Door by Huntley Fitzpatrick are stories with mothers that look after their children and nurture them, even when times are tough.  Walker's mother in Unbreak My Heart nurtured her daughter's broken heart, but also realized she couldn't put all the pieces back together herself.  It was something her daughter must learn to do on her own - and that she did, with her mother's love near by.  Mrs. Garret in Fitzpatrick's My Life Next Door reminded me a lot of my own mother.  With multiple siblings I always admired the way she shared her love individually to each one of us.  I never felt cheated.

Both Unearthly by Cynthia Hand and City of Bones by Cassandra Clare represent the true form of what a protective mother should be.  Even though their worlds are among the paranormal and the elements they have to face are a bit extreme, I still value the will each mother has to protect their daughter, at all costs.  From bumps and bruises, to that evil villain who is threatening to take over the world (or break our hearts), it's the mother who is there to protect them from harm.  I know my own mother would have stepped in front of moving train to protect me.  It's just what they do.

Finally, there are two mothers who I consider a work in progress.  They represent what it means to be human and make mistakes, but also how to fix those mistakes and move on.  The Reece Malcolm List by Amy Spalding is an example of a mother taking a bit longer (about 16 years longer) to try on her motherhood pants for size.  Sometimes it's better to be late than never show up at all.  Another mother who had a few bumps along the way is portrayed in Holier Than Thou by Laura Buzo.  Yes, she was a constant in her daughter's life (even through tragedy), but it took a bit of time to kindle that mother/daughter relationship.  I respect these mothers because they're a true example of what it's like when life isn't always easy, and we don't always make the best decisions.

When a mother/daughter relationship is told in story form it gives the reader a chance to reflect on their own lives, and their personal relationships.  Each of these novels did so for me and that is why I chose to highlight them today.  I think of my mother often... her strength, her love, the way she always protected me, and how her work is never truly done -- even ten years later, it lives on... through me.