Best Books of Twenty Twelve!

Happy New Years Eve, guys! I know that you're all probably off readying yourself for a fabulous New Years shindig, so of course I've come to liven up your merriment with my Top Books of Twenty Twelve list. 

The Fault In Our Stars by John Green: I'm sure I'm just one of more than a million other lists with this masterpiece taking the top slot. I've been meaning to re-read this all year, but perhaps I'll make it a yearly thing. There are only a few novels that have truly touched me, and this novel takes it, along with the next novel, which I'll get to in a moment. It is quite simply, one of the best YA novels I've ever read, and my first introduction to John Green.

Rules of Civility by Amor Towles: This novel was such a surprise. It's not a novel that I would normally go for whilst perusing shelves in the book shop, but my friends raved over it. I'm so happy that I took their recommendations to heart. I loved the tone of it, its era, and the things it taught me about life.

Wanderlove by Kirsten Hubbard: I adored this novel because by the end of it, I wanted to travel to the very ends of the earth, meeting beautiful people, and destroying self imposed boxes that may have kept me away from living.

The Infernal Devices Series by Cassandra Clare: For a while, I felt as if I were the only blogger on the planet who had not jumped into both of Cassandra Clare's awesome series'. I thought about which one I wanted to read first, and I'm so happy I chose The Infernal Devices. It's everything that everyone says it is, and has two beautiful shadowhunters to choose from!

Insurgent by Veronica Roth: I loved Insurgent so much more than Divergent, for some reason. It showed me that this series truly is something to be reckoned with. It's tense, serious, insightful, and romantic...placing it on the list of the best dystopian YA novels out there.

The Birthright Series by Gabrielle Zevin: This was another surprise, as when I started it, I knew it would either be a hit or miss. I still can't classify it, aside from the list of genius awesomeness!

What were your top novels of 2012?

P.S.: There's a Novel Days revamp coming...perhaps with a giveaway (wink, wink). Stay tuned, and I hope you have the most marvelous of New Years!

Because It Is My Blood by Gabrielle Zevin Book Review

Since her release from Liberty Children's Facility, Anya Balanchine is determined to follow the straight and narrow. Unfortunately, her criminal record is making it hard for her to do that. No high school wants her with a gun possession charge on her rap sheet. Plus, all the people in her life have moved on: Natty has skipped two grades at Holy Trinity, Scarlet and Gable seem closer than ever, and even Win is in a new relationship.But when old friends return demanding that certain debts be paid, Anya is thrown right back into the criminal world that she had been determined to escape. It’s a journey that will take her across the ocean and straight into the heart of the birthplace of chocolate where her resolve--and her heart--will be tested as never before. -Amazon

I'm just going to jump right to the chase with this one. Because It Is My Blood ranks in my top ten best reads of 2012. As I may have expressed in my review of the first novel in the Birthright series, All These Things I've Done, this series seems to be one of the most slept on series'. I'm always so surprised that I don't hear more about this series on the blogosphere. 

Because It Is My Blood starts right where ATTID left off. Anya's doing her best to protect her family, and stay out of  trouble, but, as usual, it's not long before her familial ties to contraband chocolate come back to set her world on fire. Zevin definitely raises the stakes with this one. There's more action, more suspense, and an overwhelming certainty that Anya cannot trust anyone. Throughout the entire book, there were moments where I wanted the throw the book into the street, for all of twists, turns, and betrayals. I'm talking 'mouth-wide-open', brow crunching shock. 

I loved everything about this novel. I especially loved the entire section dedicated to chronicling her moments in Mexico, and the new friends she meets. Zevin has a talent for creating intriguing characters with subtle details that I wanted to dig deeper and deeper into. Anya's voice is a wonderful portrayal of what it is to have experienced the horrors of the mafia, and yet also maintain traces of vulnerability that surface all the more in this novel. Natty and Leo carry the same adorableness that they did in the first novel. Scarlet is forced to grow in this novel, but maintains her playful spirit. Yuji...hmm. That man becomes an even more indecipherable enigma than the last novel. I suspect we have not seen the last of this one. Oh the questions I have.

One of my favorite parts of the novel is its emphasis on the beauty of chocolate, or that of its natural form, cacao. In the middle of this action/mystery/mafia saga, it's a welcome break to sit and learn of the importance of chocolate. I also loved Zevin's superb revisioning of New York City, where The Metropolitan Museum of Art is now a nightclub, the former New York Public Library is a club that has been closed down, but Union Square seems comfortingly familiar. 

My only pet peeve lies in the reviews on the back flap of the book jacket (this has nothing to do with the novel). It irks that this novel is continuously placed in the box of a futuristic Romeo and Juliet. Yes, there's love, because without which there would be no reason to read this, or any novel for that matter. Yes, there is some romance, and a relationship that is challenged by Anya's familial ties. But the overall story seems to take precedence over Anya and Win's relationship, and I quite like that. Though it is a big part, it is not the whole. Anya stands more to lose than her boyfriend. I love that Anya is a strong protagonist who can be in love, and yet not allow her relationship to become her entire reason for existing.

Bare in Mind: Because It Is My Blood contains violence, and disturbing scenarios.

The Birthright Series is easily the most peculiarly inviting series in Young Adult fiction. It is a fresh concept pairing chocolate with and old fashioned mob story that is believable and unpredictable. Zevin manages to make chocolate seem this enticing illegal thing that whilst reading you must get your hands on.

I Give Because It Is My Blood by Gabrielle Zevin 5 out of 5 cups of Abuela's Bitter Hot Chocolate (a recipe for which Gabrielle includes in the novel!)

My Top Nine Literary/Classic Novels to Conquer in 2013

Every year I promise myself that I will enrich my reading life inclusions of some classic/literary reads, and every year, for the most part, I cast aside my worn copy of something classically beautiful and head to the Young Adult section. Of course, there's nothing wrong with either, but I do feel a bit deficient in my literary life. I can't help but think the inclusion of these would make me a better writer. Here are a few of my picks:

Tender Is The Night by F. Scott Fitzgerald: I have often tried to read The Great Gatsby, and found that although Fitzgerald is a phenomenal wordsmith, I never quite connect with anyone, and I end up putting it down. But this past month, I've been inspired by my little cousin, Richard, who has found a favorite novel in Gatsby. I'll try to read Gatsby sometime next year, but I thought I might try one of Fitzgerald's other novels to perhaps whet my palette before diving into Gatsby. Tender Is The Night felt like a great start, and I'm intrigued by its moroseness. Perhaps, also because, Fitzgerald believes it's his best work. 

North and South by Elizabeth Gaskill: I so tried to crack into this novel but for some reason, I never dived back in. Watching the BBC serial has made up my mind that it will be a wonderful story. I realllllly want to give it a go.

Nine Stories by J.D. Salinger: Inspired by fellow bluestocking, Casee Marie, I feel I cannot go back in time without reading Salinger. I read Franny and Zooey once whilst in school, and I'm convinced that I just wasn't ready for it. I hope to like at least two of his nine stories.

Breakfast at Tiffany's by Truman Capote: I'm not sure if I've mentioned it before, but I must be the only female on the planet who can't stand the film. Audrey is always beautiful and intriguing, but I just could not relate or sympathize with Holly, or her naming her cat, 'Cat', or her 'Go-Lightly' surname. And then one day, during my internship, fellow bluestocking, Dana, spoke so highly of the novel, and its differences from the film that I wanted to settle this for once and for all. 

On The Road by Jack Kerouac: I've been trying to finish this novel for at least four years now. It's been countlessly mentioned on Novel Days, and I find I just can't seem to shake it until I've finished it! I may not fall into every one of Kerouac's works, but I'm in love with him. There you go :-).

The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho: Two of my little cousins have come to me, and expressed that this novel has changed their outlook on life. The End.

Dreaming In Cuban by Cristina Garcia: I started reading this earlier this year, and fell in love with its' magical realism and lyrical music. Unfortunately, it got lost between a reading rut and a literary surge, and I don't want it to fall in the cracks. I want to introduce all the more Latino writers into my literary world.

Tracks by Louise Erdrich: This novel has spent even more time in my library. I started this in my freshman year of college around 8 years ago, and I walked into my family library thinking...I really should finish that one. I want to read more works by or about Native Americans, as I hold cultural traces to both the Cherokee and Mohawk Native American tribes. Not to mention, of the Native works I have read, they hold some of the most naturally exquisite descriptive abilities. 

Young Hearts Crying by Richard Yates: I've always wanted to read one of his novels, but have been too afraid. I don't necessarily feel like being discouraged from my dream of succeeding, and after watching Revolutionary Road, I felt as hollow as an empty soda can. Nevertheless, this novel has been sitting on my TBR pile for the past year. 

What novels are you looking forward to reading that you would like to conquer?

Eight of My Most Anticipated Books of 2013

Falling For You by Lisa Schroeder: I fell in love with Lisa Schroeder's writing when I discovered Chasing Brooklyn, and was blown away by The Day Before. She writes special novels, and I can't wait to read this one! And she's decided not to write this one in verse, which will be wonderful to experience!

Austensibly Ordinary by Alyssa Goodnight: Although I didn't read Ms. Goodnight's Austentatious, I'm still very excited to delve into a world where us 'ordinary' gals can have chance experiences with Jane Austen. The premise of these novels remind me of Lost in Austen, and nothing else warms my heart like it.

Etiquette & Espionage by Gail Carriger: Over the latter half of this year, I've fallen into a steampunk phase. This series seems an intriguing way to get my steampunk fix, whilst finally experiencing the writing of Gail Carriger.

Requiem by Lauren Oliver: I know I'm not the only one looking forward to seeing how Lena fares through this revolution, and who stands with her in the end: Alex or Julian. This is one series where the right man is hard to choose.

Clockwork Princess by Cassandra Clare: When this releases, I will race to the bookstore on release day to pick up this gorgeous conclusion to a fabulous series! Team Will. Jem is a sweetheart, but...Will all the way.

September Girls by Bennett Madison: I have long wanted to tread into mermaid territory, and there are many awesome titles out at the moment. This one caught my attention because of its' male author. I can't wait to experience this kind of magical romance from a male perspective. Plus, I think the cover is magnifico!

Out of Breath by Rebecca Donovan: This release makes me so happy. Why, you ask? Because I experienced The Breathing Series from the beginning. My very first interview for Novel Days was with the wonderful Rebecca Donovan, and to watch her now step into the big leagues with her first major release makes my heart sing. I, like so many of her fans, cannot wait to see how this stunning conclusion will render us breathless!

Isla and The Happily Ever After by Stephanie Perkins: This year, I was most surprised at how this series took my heart and ran. And I cannot wait to experience Isla, as we both seem have have like romantic sentiments. I can't wait to see how Lola, Cricket, Anna, and Etienne are faring.


What awesome releases are you looking forward to next year?

Time Between Us by Tamara Ireland Stone Book Review

Anna and Bennett were never supposed to meet: she lives in 1995 Chicago and he lives in 2012 San Francisco. But Bennett’s unique ability to travel through time and space brings him into Anna’s life, and with him, a new world of adventure and possibility. As their relationship deepens, they face the reality that time might knock Bennett back where he belongs, even as a devastating crisis throws everything they believe into question. Against a ticking clock, Anna and Bennett are forced to ask themselves how far they can push the bounds of fate—and what consequences they can bear in order to stay together. Fresh, exciting, and deeply romantic, Time Between Us is a stunning and spellbinding debut from an extraordinary new talent in YA fiction. -Amazon

After experiencing My Name is Memory by Ann Brashares, I ventured to find other novels centered around time travel, and the like. I was not disappointed with Time Between Us by Tamara Ireland Stone. And look at that cover...it's gorgeous!

First off, I found it quite intriguing that Stone would chose to place her story between present day and 1995.  I loved that she chose a year that is not immediately associated with something huge, aside from its obvious musical awesomeness! Anna and Bennett are wonderful to experience. Anna  is a girl who longs to experience life away from her small town, but feels as if it is a long shot. Meanwhile, Bennett, the mysterious new guy in her class, has been gifted with the ability to time travel. They are immediately drawn to each other, though not in an off putting way, and Anna's world opens to new realities she never expects.

I loved that Stone makes Bennett's ability, along with his and Anna's association with each other, unpredictable and intricate. Bennett's ability has constraints that test he and Anna's time together, and I loved  the challenge.

That being said, I was a bit disheartened with the ending. Now, I'm sure that all of you who have read the novel are probably wondering what's wrong with me. There is, by no means, anything truly wrong with the ending. But, one of the things I admired about this novel, was that Stone showed the beauty of choosing your own path in life. As much as I love heartwarming endings, I thought it very refreshing where it seemed to be leading. Even so, the ending does not take away from one of the beauties of this novel, that we should not allow anything, or anyone, to hold us back from truly living life.

Time Between Us by Tamara Ireland Stone is a beautiful love story, with an even more beautiful lesson that nothing should stop us from voraciously living life.

I give Time Between Us by Tamara Ireland Stone 4 out of 5 cups of Irish Breakfast.

Lovely, Dark, and Deep by Amy McNamara Book Review

 A resonant debut novel about retreating from the world after losing everything—and the connections that force you to rejoin it. Since the night of the crash, Wren Wells has been running away. Though she lived through the accident that killed her boyfriend Patrick, the girl she used to be didn’t survive. Instead of heading off to college as planned, Wren retreats to her father’s studio in the far-north woods of Maine. Somehwere she can be alone. Then she meets Cal Owen. Dealing with his own troubles, Cal’s hiding out too. When the chemistry between them threatens to pull Wren from her hard-won isolation, Wren has to choose: risk opening her broken heart to the world again, or join the ghosts who haunt her.

-Amazon

When I walked into Barnes & Noble, I was stunned by this quite beautiful cover, and knew I had to have it in my  library. More particularly, I find I love novels written by poets, as the prose is something of an enchantment. Lovely, Dark and Deep, is the story of a young girl learning how to live again after trauma, and I had a pleasant experience with a little disappointment towards the end.

First off, I have to say that Amy Mcnamara is a beautiful writer. The way she describes the wintry forest that surrounds Wren is inviting and magical. It made me want to experience it for myself. I loved how this environment seemed to mirror Wren's mental state. When she felt as if she were coming out of the haze, the snow around her carries Christmas joy, but as she dips between happiness and grieve, it becomes a cold, lifeless shell. I've a weakness for writers who discuss other authors/books in their own, and McNamara supplies us with a great group of poets whom Wren connects with. This novel is steeped in art, as Wren is a photographer, and her father is a renowned artist. One of the profound questions I gathered through my reading is, how does an artist find other outlets when the very thing they turned too doesn't seem to pulse anymore?

I enjoyed reading Wren's experiences with grief, and her growth process. Mcnamara describes this realistically, and I could sympathize with her ups and downs. There were moments that felt so haunting, it reminded me of The Bell Jar by Sylvia Plath. I didn't see Wren's surprise secret coming, and it added all the more to the impact of her fragile state.

Being a sucker for good romance, I melted when Cal came into the picture with his genuine care and attention towards Wren. The chemistry they have is pretty awesome. But as the novel progressed, there were times I felt a bit suspicious of him, especially after one occasion (which you'll know when you come to it!). There were moments where I felt I wanted more from them, as if perhaps they could have been further fleshed out. Cal and Wren seem to move at a steady pace one moment, and then so fast that I felt a little worried. Perhaps this is simply the movement when two people are both dealing with traumatic issues. I also felt that I wanted a bit more time focussed on Cal and his issues. I felt that his own situation was wrapped up a bit too easily...especially by the end.

Bare in mind: Lovely, Dark, and Deep contains disturbing scenarios, sensuality, and profanity.

Lovely, Dark, and Deep is a partial New Adult book. Lets support NA Authors! It is a beautiful portrait of grief, and I do recommend the experience.

I give Lovely Dark and Deep by Ann McNamara 3 1/2 out of 5 mugs of Tazo Chai.

Kippa Picks: Just Remember To Breathe by Charles Sheehan-Miles Book Review

Alex Thompson's life is following the script. A pre-law student at Columbia University, she's focused on her grades, her life and her future. The last thing she needs is to reconnect with the boy who broke her heart. Dylan Paris comes home from Afghanistan severely injured and knows that the one thing he cannot do is drag Alex into the mess he's made of his life. When Dylan and Alex are assigned to the same work study program and are forced to work side by side, they have to make new ground rules to keep from killing each other. The only problem is, they keep breaking the rules. The first rule is to never, ever talk about how they fell in love. -Amazon 

 It rarely happens that I'm perusing through Amazon, come across a novel and finish reading it in a day, but ladies and gents, with this novel I was compelled until the last word. I also must say that this is a stunning cover!  Just Remember To Breathe by Charles Sheehan-Miles is an utterly beautiful New Adult novel about two people who meet whilst on a trip to Jerusalem, but have reality to contend with when the trip is over.

What I love most about this new adult novel is that it is a romance, but its also about Dylan who is a young war veteran, and has a pretty harsh life experience. I think the NA genre could possibly fall into a kind of predictable slant if it does not also portray young people who experience these off the beaten trail life experiences, and I appreciated most that Sheehan-Miles decided to write a novel about the impact of being a young Veteran. Dylan is a wonderful character to discover. The things that he encounters makes him very believable and organic. It's wonderful when characters do not read as a character model, they feel real right from the start. Sheehan-Miles effectively portrays the fragmented mental state of a young veteran, and the guilt that often comes with great tragedy.

Alex comes from an affluent family of scholars, and she has her future already planned out. I appreciated that she did not seem to be held back by her familial acumen, she seemed very forward and knowledgeable about her goals and place in life. Of course she has moments of frustration with her family, but it's really nice to experience a character who does not seem to be trapped by what their future may hold. Alex goes through many a challenge during her first year and a half of college, and handles it with and admirable strength and vulnerability. Sheehan-Miles did an excellent job of developing Alex' character. I'm often interested with how male writers portray female characters and vice versa, and I loved that he made Alex vulnerable, at times broken hearted, but also strong in the midst of trauma. Likewise, Sheehan also portrayed Dylan as a mans man, but in a human, emotional way that I know women will appreciate.

Dylan and Alex together are pure magic. Their chemistry pulls you in and compels you to discover the challenges of their relationship. This novel contains loads of that angst that I (I know I'm not the only one!) love in a romance, but it is not angst for angst sake. Nothing ever feels too melodramatic or overdone. When they're loving, it's awesome, when they're screaming, even through misunderstandings, its justified, and when they are vulnerable, it is wonderful.

Bare in mind: Just Don't Forget To Breathe contains profanity, sexual content, violence and some disturbing scenarios (e.g. War, and assault.)

Just Don't Forget To Breathe is such a great novel. Even with its heavy themes, it is also filled with light hearted flirtation, great comedic supporting characters, and best of all, romance! I'm thinking it has gained a slot on my examples of quality New Adult writing that will make this growing genre a force to be reckoned with.

I give Just Remember To Breathe by Charles Sheehan-Miles 5 out of 5 cups of Irish Breakfast.

Kippa Picks: All Things Different by Shawn Underhill Book Review

Late in the summer of 2005, starkly independent Jake Thornton was on the verge of turning 16, expecting little more than his driver’s license in the fall, and the continuance of the quiet life shared with his father. So when 14-almost-15 year old Sara moved in next door and began vying for his father’s attention, Jake wasn’t exactly thrilled, and couldn’t quite understand his father’s motives for allowing it. But certainly he never anticipated the dramatic shift their lives would take as a result. As the summer fades and autumn takes over, friendship between the two teenagers begins blossoming into a bond, until fate steps in once more, threatening to tear them apart as quickly as they’ve come together. The decisions that follow, and the emotive tale that results, opens Jake’s eyes to the simple yet life altering truth, a truth that Sara has understood all along: that love—not the feeling but the action—is the most powerful force in the world. -Amazon 

Review Copy Provided By The Author 

 All Things Different  by Shawn Underhill, is a novel that has surely taken me by surprise. I could never have predicted that I would be so emotionally connected to its characters, or that they would have experienced all that they did. All of these things came together for a fantastic reading experience.

All Things Different is the story of a sixteen year old named Jake, who's life with his father is knocked on its head when 14 going on 15 year old, Sara, moves in with her mom. Jake is, at first, challenged by Sara's presence, and how she has managed to sneak into his father's heart so quickly, but there is only a matter of time before she awakens his heart both to love and demons that no child should encounter.

I can't tell you how much this novel grabbed hold of my heart. Firstly, Shawn Underhill is a beautiful writer. The way he evokes Jake's relationships and how they grow through scenic descriptions of the land around him is beautiful. There were only some instances where I found passages to be overly descriptive, nevertheless, I have a weakness for beautiful description. This novel is told, mostly in Jake's POV, and it put me in mind of a host of iconic heroes like Huck Finn or Tom Sawyer, who longed for the peace of a lone raft in a lake.

In terms of Jake and Sara's relationship, Underhill practically coins the notion that less is more. Observing Jake open his heart to Sarah over the course of the novel is delicate, realistic, and organic.

Sara is a lovey character to experience as well. She is lively, and girly, as any young woman of this age, but she also carries with her a haunting maturity because of her experiences. Underhill effectively depicts Sara's more hesitant, vulnerable side so believably. There were moments that were uncomfortable to read, as Sara reveals her fears to Jake, and this is a testament of Underhill's talent of evoking emotion powerfully. I also enjoyed Jake's father, and his tender relationship with Sara and her mother. He's such a wonderful example of who a father should be.

Bare In Mind: All Things Different contains slight profanity, and disturbing scenarios (allusions to assualt).

All Things Different is such a delightful surprise. It's refreshing, and also heavy at times, but its depth will grab you. It will take you through a coming of age journey of love, healing, and growth.

I give All Things Different by Shawn Underhill 5 out of 5 mason jars of sweet tea under the shimmering night sky.

Spotted #3: Strand Bookstore- Union Square

Spotted is a Feature on Novel Days where I spotlight books which I discover whilst about town.

Atonement by Ian McEwan: ...is by far one of the most well written, yet saddest novels I've ever read. Till this day, I can't finish it, or watch the film...but the man is an awesome wordsmith.

The Year of Magical Thinking by Joan Didion: I'm almost ashamed to call myself a writer while simultaneously admitting that I've never experienced the legend that is Joan Didion. I have heard that TYOMT is a great place to start with her, though. What do you guys think of her work?

The Elephant Vanishes by Haruki Murakami: For the record, I would read about a fry loving alien who oozes violet blood, and seeks after his true love named Gloria....if Murakami wrote it. I've read his novels and become absolutely enamored by him, but I've never experienced his short stories. It's time to give them a try.

House of Leaves by Mark Danielewski: Funny story about this novel. See, I'm into novels that are innovative, both in terms of writing, and aesthetic form. So, if your novel displays text all over the place, newspaper articles, photography, scripts, blank spaces, and everything else that makes freeform awesome, then there's a huge chance I will buy you on that alone. I did just that with this novel two years ago.  But, the story-line is so scary and mysterious, that I put it on a shelf in my closet that night...and never picked it up again. I've been told never to read it alone...and never at night. I'm not daring enough, ladies and gentlemen.

American Fantastic Tales edited by Peter Straub: At the Strand Bookstore, you can count on being introduced to a book that you would've never encountered otherwise. This is one of them, and I would love to read some fantastical tales from the past. 

The Beginners by Rebecca Wolff: I discovered this novel whilst sandwiched between two teeming stacks. You may never make it out, ladies and gents! At first, I was merely attracted to its cover, and simplicity of title. But a coming of age tale about a girl taken up with a new 'worldly' couple that moves into her town...mixing innocent infatuation with the film The Strangers. No one knows who, or what these new people are. I think I'm sold.

Sudden Rain by Maritta Wolff: I found this next to The Beginners, and I honestly loved the cover. I also love writers' infatuation with demystifying the American Dream. Though, I've never been a fan of anything set in the 70s for some reason.

Portrait in Sepia by Isabel Allende: I've always wanted to read Allende. I'm sure that this will be an amazing, surrealistic portrait of a young woman trying to figure out who she is. Perhaps, it's the Chilean Anastasia.

Le Petite Prince Moleskine Diary: (The first link is for the book, the second for the moleskine) Of course I had to mention one of my favorite stories of all time. Seeing this diary made me smile. Whilst visiting another bookshop favorite of mine, Books of Wonder, I found this sort of unabridged collectors edition, filled with drafts, and ponderings of Antoine De Saint-Exupery. Sounds like a dream to me, ladies and gents.

Thanks for reading, dearies! What books have caught your attention this week?

Crash by Nicole Williams Book Review

Southpointe High is the last place Lucy wanted to wind up her senior year of school. Right up until she stumbles into Jude Ryder, a guy whose name has become its own verb, and synonymous with trouble. He's got a rap sheet that runs longer than a senior thesis, has had his name sighed, shouted, and cursed by more women than Lucy dares to ask, and lives at the local boys home where disturbed seems to be the status quo for the residents. Lucy had a stable at best, quirky at worst, upbringing. She lives for wearing the satin down on her ballet shoes, has her sights set on Juilliard, and has been careful to keep trouble out of her life. Up until now. Jude's everything she knows she needs to stay away from if she wants to separate her past from her future. Staying away, she's about to find out, is the only thing she's incapable of. For Lucy Larson and Jude Ryder, love's about to become the thing that tears them apart.

-Barnes & Noble

When I encountered Crash by Nicole Williams, I'll admit I was excited...but I believed that it would be your regular bad boy meets good girl story. While I was right in my assumption, I was also very surprised at its depth. Lucy is a young dancer with aspirations of attending Juilliard...loads of responsibility. Jude, on the other hand, is a well known delinquent who has no faith that he can override his past. When Lucy and Jude come together, their chemistry sizzles from the very beginning. I love when a novel can make me feel this very early on in the story! 

The aspect of Crash that I was surprised about were the happenings that connect both Lucy and Jude together. I did not expect that Jude and Lucy would have to deal with such series issues. Right from the start, Lucy encounters the darker side of his life in stride, but I did enjoy how Williams took them both through a series of trust tests. Lucy does not just fall into Jude's every whim. Jude was an enjoyable character to experience. I will admit that in the beginning to middle, I thought him a bit too self deprecating, however, as the story concluded, his sincerity becomes clear. It was heartbreaking that such a sweetheart could feel this way about himself, and I know that others will fall n love with Jude's sincerity.  I also enjoyed Jude and Lucy's journey towards healing and forgiveness.

The only thing I didn't connect with as much in Crash is that I found it a bit brash and raw. This novel is definitely for older readers (late teens and up). 

Bare in mind: Crash contains violence, profanity, and sensuality. 

Crash by Nicole Williams was quite a ride, with characters that definitely touched me in the end. I'm looking forward to its sequel, Clash! 

I give Crash by Nicole Williams 4 out of 5 cups of Irish Breakfast. 

PS: I'm sooo sorry that I have been MIA from Novel Days for the past few weeks. I've recently started a brand new job, and so I'm trying to acclimate to my new schedule, as well as prioritize now that my free time is a bit more limited. I'm also coming into the home stretch of the first draft for my New Adult novel...finally (after 5 years). I promise I haven't left! Please bare with me. Thank you all so much for your continued readership! Just think, this means more giveaways!

THE CRIMSON HUNT Cover Reveal!

I'm so excited to be a part of the celebration for Victoria H. Smith's debut New Adult novel, The Crimson Hunt! Just look at that cover, it's a real beauty. Looks like Ariel and Luca are sure to become one of the key couples in NA!

 

The Crimson Hunt (Eldaen Light Chronicles, #1) by: Victoria H. Smith 

Release Date: November 12, 2012 

Genre: New Adult Science Fiction Romance 

Book Description: 

College junior Ariel Richmond is working on year three of Project Normalcy. Her house reeks of keggers past and her bestie is just a slight bit vulgar. But the thing is—they both aid in making life refreshingly uneventful. So much for hard-earned mediocrity when Luca Grinaldi appears on the scene. Luca’s sudden presence on campus is hard to ignore. Those bright eyes act like a beacon to unsuspecting females, and with features like his, he’s got to be moonlighting for GQ. Luca hopelessly captivates Ariel with his confidence and charisma, but the mysteries surrounding him make him nearly untouchable. And just when Ariel grows close enough to unlock his secrets, a tragic event sends her life in a downward spiral. That steady life is no longer an option and allies quickly become scarce. The mysterious Luca seems to be the only one willing to help her—but with that trust comes the burden of his secrets. He has a dark mission of otherworldly proportions, and is willing to sacrifice as many lives as it takes to see it completed. Gone are the days of simply maintaining normalcy, and if Ariel isn’t cautious with her trust, so soon may be her future. 

Cover Image Designed by: Michelle Johnson
 
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About the Author: Victoria H. Smith has a Bachelor’s Degree in Political Science. She puts it to good use writing romance all day. She resides in the Midwest with her Macbook on her lap and a cornfield to her right. She often draws inspiration for her stories from her own life experiences, and the twenty-something characters she writes give her an earful about it. In her free time, she enjoys extreme couponing, blogging, reading, and sending off a few tweets on Twitter when she can. She writes new adult fiction romance in the sub-genres of science fiction, urban fantasy, and contemporary, but really, anywhere her pen takes her she goes. 

 Victoria H. Smith Links:                                             

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I hope you're as excited as I am to pick up The Crimson Hunt on November 12th!

Rules of Civility by Amor Towles Book Review

The New York Times bestselling novel that "enchants on first reading and only improves on the second" (The Philadelphia Inquirer) This sophisticated and entertaining first novel presents the story of a young woman whose life is on the brink of transformation. On the last night of 1937, twenty-five-year-old Katey Kontent is in a second-rate Greenwich Village jazz bar when Tinker Grey, a handsome banker, happens to sit down at the neighboring table. This chance encounter and its startling consequences propel Katey on a year-long journey into the upper echelons of New York society—where she will have little to rely upon other than a bracing wit and her own brand of cool nerve. With its sparkling depiction of New York’s social strata, its intricate imagery and themes, and its immensely appealing characters, Rules of Civility won the hearts of readers and critics alike.

-Barnes & Noble

Quite simply, Rules of Civility by Amor Towles is one of the best novels I've read. Period. Not only is it filled with wonderful writing detailing the year long journey of a young woman discovering the upper echelons of 1930s New York City, it is filled with poignant meaning that I will ponder for a long while. There aren't many novels that I want to reread, but this is one that I'm sure I've missed something worth gleaning.

Katey Kontent, the protagonist of this novel, is keen, witty, and intriguing as we follow her through one life changing year. One moment, she and her best friend Eve, are working girls in New York City, looking to spend a night out, and in the next serendipitous moment, they've met the man that would change both of their lives dramatically...Tinker Grey. I enjoyed every single moment of this novel...new characters, music, and imagery. I enjoyed the sights and sounds evoked in this piece. Towles is a master of characterization and voice. I couldn't have imagined any other character narrating this novel other than Katey, whose voice has a journalistic quality to it, and a way of showing emotion without over sensationalizing. It worked so well that one could believe that Katey is a real person of which Towles is simply taking dictation.

Towles has painted New York in the 1930s to a tee. It's as if he has jumped into a time machine and zipped back give us a walking tour of this roaring city. Being a New Yorker, it was such an alluring experience to know I am within walking distance of many of the churches Katey frequents, along with many places that may have once existed. He paints New York almost as a love/hate relationship that tends to mirror relationships within the novel; The city can draw one in like a siren with its sparkling lights, exciting people, and promises of dreams while awake...yet it is a mercurial behemoth with so many facades that one may not be able to keep up. There were so many surprises to be uncovered that I  could not put it down.

Bare In Mind: This novel contains profanity, and adult content/situations.

Rules of Civility carries the weight of lives lived, pondered, and squandered. What most touched me was that I chose this novel as the one I would take into my next year (My Birthday Novel) hoping that it would carry some great meaning I could take with me. Katey is the same age as I am, and experiences a struggle that many of us do, with deciding what directions our lives will take, and who will come into these new dimensions with us. It felt for a while that I were going on my journey with another who understood, minus the many nouveau riche Katey meets. The novel contains all of the glamour, excitement, and secrecy, but also carries the question of its' worth. Is it worth what it might take to gain the American Dream? Is it worth squandering childlike wonder for the world around you? Do you really know who you are, and who your friends are? These questions and more define a beautiful experience with the novel!

I give this novel 5 out of 5 flutes of sparkling champagne and a night on the town.

Spotted #2: Barnes & Noble Union Square

Spotted is a Feature on Novel Days where I spotlight books which I discover whilst about town.

The Time Travelling Fashionista at the Palace of Marie Antoinette by Bianca Turretsky: I saw this and immediately the little girl in me who loves to play dress up began to cheer. This novel surrounds a thirteen year old who wind's up in Marie Antoinette's court. Who wouldn't want to be in her court, if not just to experience it all by proxy! Macarons, pastels, bustling skirts...I think so. This might be a really light refresher to my list.

Zombies vs. Unicorns Edited by Holly Black: Every time I see this anthology I laugh inside, because it seems  such a crazed notion that someone would even pit a grotesque and slimy Zombie with a beautiful Unicorn. I guess from the last, you all know what side I'm on! Give 'em grief, Unicorns!

Mademoiselle De Maupin by Theophile Gautier:  I'm always on the lookout for really wonderful French Classics. Since falling in love with Guy De Maupassant, I wanted to explore more iconic pieces. Taking a stroll past the B&N Penguin Classic's section, the cover caught my eye straight away. It's illusory, intriguing, puzzling. I'm very curious. (Contain's Adult Themes)

Willful Impropriety-13 Tales of Society, Scandal and Romance Edited by Ekatarina Sedia: Totally excited about this anthology of no doubt beautifully engaging tales about the darker sides of society! Honestly, anything Victorian, or smack dab between the 20s and the 60s...I'm sold. There's something so much cooler and more drawing about the secrets lying in these eras than in present day.

Diva by Jillian Larkin: It's set in the 20s, and there are Flappers involved. This needs no explanation ;-). Anyone else love ths series?

Laura Lamont's Life In Pictures by Emma Straub: This novel makes me happy to see placed all around bookstores. It has such a beautiful cover, and a premise that the 20s lover in me is thrilled to dive into.

Battle Royale by Koshun Takami: This. Novel. Of course this is The Hunger Games before The Hunger Games came to be. Seems quite the work. Vicious, raw, and even in the midst of all this, I'm curious. I'm really hoping that it's not violence for violence sake. But, yeah...seems pretty frightening overall.  (Contains: Violence)

Infinite Jest by David Foster Wallace: Does anyone truly know what this novel is about? Have any of you read it? I know many have placed it on their challenging books list with hopes of conquering it as one would seek to defeat War and Peace or Anna Karenina. I always like a good challenge, that's why I'm hoping to finish Murakami's 1Q84 before year is over.

Winter's Bone by Daniel Woodrell: I watched the film starring Jennifer Lawrence surrounding a young girl who's in search of her father in the poverty stricken Ozarks. Something that I can't explain captured my attention. I didn't watch the film long enough to know every bit of the story, but when I discovered that there was a novel, I thought it would be interesting to read. I also have a fascination with Appalachia and areas surrounding this territory and culture. It seems a whole other world there. 

What novels have captured your eye lately?

Book Blogger Appreciation Week: Getting To Know Me

 

I decided I would join in on the festivities of Book Blogger Appreciation Week a bit too late to swap an interview with one of you awesome bluestockings, I thought I would take on this nice little getting to know me questionnaire!

Do you snack while you read? If so, favorite reading snack?
It really depends on what 'snackage' is around at any given time. Though, an ideal would be a steaming cup of Irish Breakfast/Cocoa/Chai, and some kind of biscuit.

Do you tend to mark your books as you read, or does the idea of writing in books horrify you?
I think a bunch of you will cringe upon reading my response, but I not only mark my books while I read, I write whole passages of thoughts at times. There's something about imprinting books you read that intrigues me. Of course, it depends on the book. If it's an expensive, epic tome, perhaps I'll save my ink for elsewhere ;-). I like to think of it as a sort of diary. When you go back to read it again, you'll know just the kind of impression you had of it/how it affected you at the time.

How do you keep your place while reading a book? Bookmark? Dog-ears? Laying the book flat open?
I either use one of those handy Strand Bookstore markers they give out for free, or a Fuji Instax polaroid... they're fun! I love breaking the spine of a paperback...makes me feel accomplished ;-).

Fiction, Non-fiction, or both?
Fiction mostly. I love losing myself in other worlds, but every now and then something that's non fiction will grab me. I particularly love Christian Inspirational Non-fiction.

Hard copy or audiobooks?
Hard copies...period. I'm not sure I can stomach someone else voice reading over a novel for me...but I guess if the actor/speaker used is awesome, I could.

Are you a person who tends to read to the end of chapters, or are you able to put a book down at any point?
I try to read until the end of every chapter. It can be so strange to try and reconnect midway the plot, after you've had to take a break.

If you come across an unfamiliar word, do you stop to look it up right away?
Most times, I'll underline every unfamiliar word, and look them up afterwards. This is a bit easier if I'm reading on a Kindle or iPad.

What are you currently reading?
I'm currently reading Rules of Civility by Amor Towles. SUCH a good book so far.

What is the last book you bought?
My Name is Memory by Ann Brashares...also a good book!

Are you the type of person that only reads one book at a time or can you read more than one at a time?
I'm a bit jumpy when it comes to books. I try soooo hard to stick to one at a time, however, I always end up feeling like I'm missing something, or being counterproductive if I don't read, at least, one extra. It's a deceit, I know :-).

Do you have a favorite time of day and/or place to read?
Everyday, anytime, anyplace. But I have been wanting to find a place like Bryant Park, or a beautiful library.

Do you prefer series books or stand alone books?
I think over the years I've grown so used to reading books that are a part of a series that when a stand alone does creep onto my TBR it's often bittersweet.

Is there a specific book or author that you find yourself recommending over and over?
I think I've recommended The Hunger Games so many times, I know I should break from it. It's just so good.

How do you organize your books? (By genre, title, author’s last name, etc.?)
Organization? That exists?

Thanks so much for reading along with me on day two of Book Blogger Appreciation Week! I can't wait to look at all of your interviews!

Book Blogger Appreciation Week: Bluestocking Love

 

Bluestocking: -noun
            1. a woman with considerable, scholarly, literary, or intellectual ability or interest.

Kicking off this Book Blogger Appreciation Week with a bang, the first topic is love, ladies and gents. Here are a few bluestockings that I adore in the book blogging community!

Casee Marie at Literary Inklings: I adore Literary Inklings! Casee's reviews are smart, intriguing, and she has an eye for wonderful literature that one many not otherwise encounter.

April at Good Books and Good Wine: April's blog was one of my inspirations to start up Novel Days! I love her reviews, and her witty voice!

Lenna at Confessions of An Inner Aspen: After 'meeting' Lenna via a blog hop, I'm so happy I have. Her blog is filled with keen reviews, musings, and overall imaginative awesomeness.

Gabbie at This Girl Gabbie: Follow Gabbie as she shares her journeys via DIY Projects, beautiful art which she creates and sells, and books, of course!


Bluestocking Vloggers

Christine PolandBananasBooks: Christine is the craziest breath of fresh air book vlogger I've encountered on youtube!

Camilla at The Artsy Gal 12: Camilla is a wonderful vlogger that has such passion for books, it causes the same response in viewers.  She's also an AMAZING artist!

I'm so excited to participate in this years Book Blogger Appreciation Week! Who are your fave bloggers?

My Name Is Memory by Ann Brashares Book Review

Daniel has spent centuries falling in love with the same girl. Life after life, crossing continents and dynasties, he and Sophia (despite her changing name and form) have been drawn together-and he remembers it all. For all the times that he and Sophia have been connected throughout history, they have also been torn painfully, fatally, apart. But just when Sophia (now "Lucy" in the present) finally awakens to the secret of their shared past, the mysterious force that has always separated them reappears. Ultimately, they must come to understand what stands in the way of their love if they are ever to spend a lifetime together.

*Car Screech* I know what you Fallen fans are thinking. Two people, named Daniel and Lucy, in a love affair spanning the dawn of time.... Sounds a bit familiar to me. I thought the same thing. But, Ladies and Gents', this is a whole other ball game. My Name is Memory by Ann Brashares is my first read of hers, and I was delightfully surprised. This novel is one of the best romances I've ever read. Brashares turns the, at times, overused theme of star crossed love into something fresh, intriguing, and gripping. 

My Name is Memory read like a historical epic, jumping from the present, to several time periods spanning a thousand years. It is written partially in Daniel's point of view, and partially in Daniel/Lucy close third person pov. I had such a great experience with Daniel's personal pov! Brashares successfully  captures a voice filled with the weight of ancient knowledge, while simultaneously allowing for the vulnerability and clever attitude of a 18-24 year old guy. It has a haunting quality to it, as Daniel experiences multiple harsh lives. It is also rich in lush detail of the ancient city of Constantinople, Cappadocia, England, and many more beautifully depicted histories. 

Lucy's (Sophia) aspects of the story were also intriguing, and I loved how she discovers who Daniel really is as the novel progresses. Can you imagine what it would be like to have someone come up to you and reveal that they have loved you throughout the ages? Such a wonderful premise. It was great to experience a character who is unknowledgeable of the full scope of things, seeing as the novel is steeped in Daniel's knowledge. 

Brashares does not paint a romantic picture filled with sap and warm fuzzies. This romance is heavy with the weight of certain harsh realities this world can carry. There are moments that are so heartbreaking I could cry for Daniel and Lucy. Out of all of their past histories, I most connected with that of Daniel and Lucy as Constance. It was so emotional and sincere, I couldn't stop thinking about it.

This novel is one that I could see becoming quite a beautiful film someday. 

The only things I didn't love about this novel are it's pacing and it's ending. There were moments in the novel that I felt were a bit dragged out. Perhaps one of its intents was to show you an example of how Daniel and Lucy feel to wait for perfect circumstances. But at times, I just wanted to grab Daniel by the hand and say, Dude, please...there she is, tell her that you're here so you both can frolick into the sunset. In terms of its ending, I have to say, I did actually like it. But it made me wish there were a sequel. After doing some research inquiring of a sequel, I discovered that, though intended to be a trilogy, dwindling book sales have caused the publishers not to push for it. Let's turn their minds around guys!

Bare in Mind: My Name Is Memory contains sensuality, profanity, and the subject of reincarnation.

My Name is Memory gave me the same feeling I had whilst reading The Fault In Our Stars by John Green. It's beautifully written, romantic, smart, and reads like a modern classic. There were so many underline worthy ponderings on life and love, I'll have to reread to get them all down.

I give My Name Is Memory by Ann Brashares 4 out of 5 cups of Earl Grey.

Spotted #1: Barnes & Noble Midtown

Spotted is a Feature on Novel Days where I spotlight books which I discover whilst about town.

The Twitter Diaries by Georgie Thompson: An entire novel written in the form of twitter updates. I wanted to turn up my nose at this, but I couldn't help but think of how fun this could be. Not to mention, it takes a good writer to write a compelling plot within 140 spaces.

Beautiful Disaster by Jamie McGuire: I believe I caught on to this novel some months before it caught fire amongst readers/bloggers everywhere. It's comparison to Fifty Shades is almost completely wrong, but the one way that they link is the self published/independently published factor. It's novels like these that make me so excited to self publish my own novel. A few years ago, who would've thought that it was possible for a self published author to gain a spot on The New York Times Bestseller List? Seeing this novel in a bookstore made me smile!

Gone Girl by Gillian Flynn: I watched this novel float from tweet to tweet for almost a full week. How can I ignore such craze? I think I'm the only one who hasn't read it yet. What do you guys think about this novel? I'm game for a good mystery...as long as it isn't drawn out.

How To Write A Sentence and How To Read One by Stanley Fish: Because after Grad School I really need to re learn these basic functions.

The Night Circus by Erin Morganstern: I started reading this about a month ago, and now I'm ready to jump back into it. I've heard the most magical things about it, and the more I see it around, the more I would love to take a journey to a real life night circus (if such exists).

Rules of Civility by Amor Towles: Today, I picked up this promising gem as an early birthday present. One of my best friends and fellow bluestocking, Casee Marie from Literary Inklings, has consistently recommended this novel to me until I couldn't resist any longer. There's just something about the 30s and 40s that I'm fascinated with. It seems as if even daily life was romantic back then. I'm really looking forward to this one.

One Day by David Nicholls: This. Book. In my review of it, I talk of how this novel wracks my brain. Whenever I see it, I feel a mixture of awe, sadness, and irritation. Dexter will do that to you...that ending will do that to you.

Cosmopolis by Dan Delillo: I'll admit that I've only turned my eyes to this novel because of my dear, Robert Pattinson. I tried reading it while I was still in Wales, and it certainly seemed like our generations' Ulysees. I'm curious to read more, as I enjoyed the sound of the dialogue after seeing a few scenes from the movie. It is so slow and calculated. I'm almost sure that it's our version of Shakespearean language. I'm looking forward to discovering the meaning of each word.

The Conde Nast Book of Unforgettable Journeys-Great Writers on Great Places: There's nothing better than good writing that evokes a sense of place that makes one sure they've travelled. Good writing can certainly make a place seem mythic and lovely by bringing out the natural, untapped beauty of the place described. This would be an interesting addition to my library.

The History of Love by Nicole Krauss: So, I've had this novel trapped in my closet for the past 2 and a 1/2 years. I've heard pretty mixed reviews, but this quote: "Once upon a time there was a boy who loved a girl, and her laughter was a question he wanted to spend his whole life answering."--keeps me hopeful. One of my great missions as a writer is to discover new ways to write about and describe the act of loving someone, and this novel seems a treasure trove of inspiration. What do you guys think?

What awesome reads have you spotted around lately?

Autumn Top 12

There are simply too many novels I would love to read by the end of the year, but I've narrowed my Fall/Winter List down to my Top 12.

This Is How You Lose Her by Junot Diaz: Drown was one of the best short story collections I've ever read, so I flipped when I discovered that Diaz is coming out with a new collection.

Because It Is My Blood by Gabrielle Zevin: I thoroughly enjoyed All These Things I've Done, and this next installment promises more surprises, mob family drama, and illegal chocolate. What more can I ask for?

Monstrous Beauty by Elizabeth Fama: Mermaids. Crazy ones. I'm intrigued by mermaid folklore, and I love them more when they are depicted in a raw sense, instead of the Walt Disney singsong version. That being said, I also have to finish The Vicious Deep by Zoraida Cordova.

Laura Lamont's Life In Pictures by Emma Straub: There's nothing better than exploring the world of Moving Pictures in the 1920s. Such glamour, intrigue, and beauty. I discovered this via the lovely, Casee Marie at Literary Inklings.

Finale by Becca Fitzpatrick: More Patch. The end.

Time Between Us by Tamara Ireland Stone: After reading My Name is Memory by Ann Brashares (Look for this review next Monday!), I quite love romances involving time travel! If it were possible to carry on a love from Kerouac's time, I would jump right in!

The Elementals by Francesca Lia Block: Ms. Block showed me as a senior in high school with her novel, Echo, that I wanted to write in a way that would immerse readers in a lush, magically realistic world. Can't wait to read her latest mystery!

Meant To Be by Lauren Morril: After hearing that this novel is suggested for anyone who loved Anna and The French Kiss by Stephanie Perkins, I had to add this to the list. There's nothing better than a great romance that can have you feeling euphoric, regardless of other opinions.

Eight Girls Taking Pictures by Whitney Otto: This novel promises an intriguing look at female artists in several vignettes around the world. I adore photography, and thought how interesting it would be to look into several photographers lives.

Out Of Reach by Carrie Arcos: I love a nice dark, and lyrical tale depicting intrigue and addiction battles. I had to include at least one angsty tale on this list.

If I Stay by Gayle Forman: This novel has been on my TBR list for a bit over a year. I've heard so many wonderful things about it, that I would love to dive into it, and it's sequel Where She Went.

Twenty Boy Summer by Sarah Ockler: I have been trying to read this novel all summer long! At first, I thought it would be a lighthearted read, but after hearing many raving reviews, it seems to be a balanced novel detailing what it is to grieve and move forward over the course of a summer. I love novels that take me by surprise!

What novels are you excited to read this Fall/Winter?

Kippa Picks: What A Boy Wants by Nyrae Dawn Book Review

Courtesy of watching his mom’s relationships, Sebastian Hawkins knows what girls need to do to get a guy. He has what he considers a PHD in hooking up. When he needs extra cash for a car, Sebastian starts an online venture as The Hook-up Doctor, to anonymously help girls land the guy of their dreams. Of course, his services don’t offer a happily-ever-after guarantee. He’s seen firsthand getting together never means staying together. And then he falls in love… With the last girl he would expect… Totally not in his game plan. Suddenly, Sebastian finds himself muddled in the game he’s always prided himself on. He can’t even pick up girls at parties anymore! Why would anyone want to be in love when it turns you into a stuttering, screwed-up, mess with really lame stalker tendencies? Stalking? Totally not his gig. But the Hook-up Doctor won’t let himself go down easily. He’s always known how to give a girl what she wants and now it’s time to figure out what a boy wants… and he definitely plans on getting it.

-Amazon

What A Boy Wants by Nyrae Dawn was a fun and entertaining read. Sebastian Hawkins (Bastian), is that guy we all knew in high school, who is all swag and ego. The guy that makes you bristle a bit on the inside, bit also tilt your head in consideration because you know you love it. But, being the character masochist I am, I absolutely love when authors turn this kind of guy on his head, and place them in situations that they could've never prepared for.

As What A Boy Wants progresses, we see Bastian fall for his best friend, Aspen, and what a beautiful fall it is. I found I loved his character more and more as the novel progressed, because we see his protective nature for his mother, and his best friends. I loved Bastian's relationship with Aspen, they were wonderful best friends. Aside from all of the 'Hook-Up Doctor' 'cocktastic' banter, he is a lovely guy at heart who learns that there is a bit more to love than merely a formula. Although it was mainly lighthearted, there were moments of heaviness that balanced it all out. Bastian shows his more vulnerable side as the novel progresses, and I couldn't help but melt for him!

Dawn has a talent for creating characters that you want to hang out with, and who remind you of your own friends. I fell in intrigue with Bastian's good friend, Jaden, and I need to know what happens between him and their friend Pris in What A Boy Needs.

Bare in mind: This novel contains profanity, and sensuality.

What A Boy Wants is a fun novel filled with entertainment, drama, and the ups and downs of being smacked in the face by love.

I give What a Boy Wants by Nyrae Dawn 4 out of 5 cups of Pepsi (Because lets face it, these kids aren't drinking Earl Grey ;-).

Gothic Lolita by Dakota Lane Book Review

TWO GIRLS, THOUSANDS OF MILES APART... Chelsea lives in Los Angeles; Miya lives in Tokyo. Other than the fact they're both half Japanese and obsessed with dressing like Gothic Lolitas, they would seem to have nothing in common. Or do they? THE BLOG THAT WENT AWAY. They got to know each other through their blogs. But three years ago something happened to Chelsea, an event so terrible that she stopped writing altogether. Miya's been checking Chelsea's blog ever since, to see if she's come back, but she never has. Until today. A LIFE AND DEATH CONNECTION. Today is the day Chelsea finally goes back online and tells Miya everything. And today is the day that Miya's life could change forever because of it. Like a Japanese manga come to life, Gothic Lolita is a mythic fairy tale about love, death, and rebirth...and the courage it takes to reach out to another soul.

-Amazon

Gothic Lolita is a strange, and melancholy tale of two girls who share a possibly supernatural connection to each other, and bond over online journals and the Gothic Lolita subculture/manga. I originally picked up this novel, because I melt for narratives that are unconventionally stylistically. Gothic Lolita reads as a long poem broken up into chapters and perspectives. Dakota Lane's writing is beautiful and lush, truly something to be experienced. To top it all off, Lane even incorporates her own ethereal photography into the story line, creating an all the more haunting feel to this novel. I also picked up this novel because I find myself quite fascinated with different subcultures, Gothic Lolita's included. I often wonder what it's like to literally drape your life in costume, and find this to be your normal. Lane includes wonderful passages about Miya and Chelsea's love for this culture. It is specific and decadent, almost seeming to take inspiration from Francesca Lia Block. I definitely sensed a bit of a Murakami influence in terms of its otherworldly sense of another dimension. This novel brought back an old love for online journaling; Those days when no one could peel me away from my LiveJournal, and everyone out there seemed artistic and beautiful.

Unfortunately, even with all of the beautiful descriptions and photography, I found myself a bit disappointed with this novel. The cover claims that it is a mystical thriller, which automatically got my attention. I immediately wanted to know what happened to make Chelsea stop writing and communicating with Miya. However, it seems that all of the important mysterious facts are all ready known after a bit, we only need for Miya and Chelsea to explain these facts to each other. Also, I found it quite hard to differentiate one point of view from another, and at times I had to go back to the start of the chapter to remember which character was speaking. The novel also lacks action, that I'll say I'm not often bothered by, I love exposition and thoughts, but for something deemed a 'mystical thriller' it would seem to need a bit more action to keep a readers' attention.

Bare in mind: Gothic Lolita contains profanity, what could be seen as disturbing scenarios, and supernatural elements.

Bottom line, I would recommend this novel to anyone who, like me, loves to take in beautiful, unconventional  poetry, and photography. Read it because it's an oddity in the market. But if you're looking for action, and fast paced tension...I wouldn't move forward with this title.

I give Gothic Lolita by Dakota Lane 3 out of 5 cups of Earl Grey.