Bitsy Bling Books

Every Other Day by Jennifer Lynn Barnes

2012-02-24T14:12:00.000-08:00

Every Other Day
Author Jennifer Lynn Barnes

Every other day, Kali D'Angelo is a normal sixteen-year-old girl. She goes to public high school. She attends pep rallies. She's human. And then every day in between . . .She's something else entirely. Though she still looks like herself, every twenty-four hours predatory instincts take over and Kali becomes a feared demon-hunter with the undeniable urge to hunt, trap, and kill zombies, hellhounds, and other supernatural creatures. Kali has no idea why she is the way she is, but she gives in to instinct anyway. Even though the government considers it environmental terrorism. When Kali notices a mark on the lower back of a popular girl at school, she knows instantly that the girl is marked for death by one of these creatures. Kali has twenty-four hours to save her and, unfortunately, she'll have to do it as a human. With the help of a few new friends, Kali takes a risk that her human body might not survive. . .and learns the secrets of her mysterious condition in the process.

Review: Kali is a grounded, female character that has resigned to her uncommon life and the inevitable isolation that comes with it. Despite her predatory skills and strength, she is vulnerable, which softens her character, making her incredibly likable. She can kick-butt, but experiences all the same teen-angst insecurities that 'normal' kids go through. This characterization detail keeps her planted in the here and now even when the supernatural threatens to take this science-fiction, paranormal mystery to strange, unimaginable places. Every Other Day is a great example of how to cement the abstract into reality making it credible. Joss Whedon did this with Buffy the Vampire Slayer, and I see similarities or possible influences in this particular story. Buffy fans will enjoy Jennifer Lynn Barnes characters and style. I know I did! I have no idea of any of the conceptual ideas are scientifically viable, but due to the writing delivery, it certainly was believable. I could give over to the story and sink into the world of Kali and her friends. The ending leaves the reader wanting more and I'm looking forward to the sequel. This is a great young adult book that puts an inspiring tweak on some overdone paranormal concepts and creatures.

* ARC provided by Egmont USA courtesy of Amazon Vine Review

History of A Pleasure Seeker by Richard Mason

2012-02-20T14:37:00.000-08:00

History of A Pleasure Seeker
Author Richard Mason

Piet Barol, the titular pleasure seeker, is a priapic, ambitious young man come to seek his fortune in belle époque Amsterdam. Unlike Frédéric Moreau in Flaubert's L'Éducation sentimentale (to which this book owes no meagre debt), Piet is magnificently gifted, not only "extremely attractive to most women and to many men", but also a fine pianist, draughtsman and lover. We first meet him interviewing for the role of tutor to the son of the wealthy hotelier, Maarten Vermeulen-Sickerts. All is not well in his gilded household. Egbert, the son, is agoraphobic. The matriarch, Jacobina, hasn't been touched by her husband in almost a decade. Into this highly strung atmosphere comes Piet, charged with the task of freeing Egbert from his paralysing fear of the outside world. We soon realise, however, that Egbert isn't the only one in need of help. Piet sets about liberating the libidos of the repressed family through music – championing bawdy Bizet over abstract Bach – and oral sex. While the setting is Dutch, the influences are French – think Bel-Ami, Les Liaisons dangereuses and Gide's L'immoraliste.

Review: Piet Barol is a classic, seductive, golden boy who comes from modest means, but rises with the help of good looks and some common-sense charm that carries him a long way. The book is divided into two parts, with Piet Barol the focal character that pulls it together. The first half is intriguing and builds as the imperfections, phobias, morals and obstacles of the characters are revealed. Based on this, I would have rated the book higher, but then disappointment occurs when the period with the Vermeulen-Sickerts family is neatly tied up and Piet Barol abandons ship and sets sail to Cape Town. It is too neat and tidy for my taste. All is so quickly forgiven and realized, which gave me pause. However, there is room for a sequel and I'm hoping this is merely a set-up for more to come, but despite Piet's evident talent of the tongue, he left me unsatisfied. The second half takes place on the ship heading to Cape Town. This is a bit rushed and convenient as well. Piet gets himself in some situations, but is always saved or let off the dangle rather easily. This decreases the tension and gives a ho-hum outcome. It's a touch taboo and a bit randy in places, but all in all too light in scandal and risk. I wanted more at stake, or at least a better build up with nail-biting disappointment. History of A Pleasure Seeker floats causally like an imposter at a party no one really cares if you crash.

*ARC provided by Knopf courtesy of Amazon Vine for review

The Hunger Games Read-A-Thon

2012-02-19T13:52:00.000-08:00

Announcing THE HUNGER GAMES Read-A-Thon event to help us kill time before the wait kills us!!! Breathing Books and Smitten Over Books will be hosting The Hunger Games Read-A-Thon, a month-long read-a-thon that begins February 23, 2012 until the eve of March 23, 2012.

For more info. click on the button above to go to read-a-thon information page. To sign-up, just do an introductory post with the details for this event, the button and link-it up. Help us spread the word on Twitter by using the #THGReadAThon hashtag!

The Innocent by Taylor Stevens: A Religious Cult Kidnapping Thriller

2012-02-04T14:05:00.000-08:00

The Innocent
Author Taylor Stevens

Eight years ago, a man walked five-year-old Hannah out the front doors of her school and spirited her over the Mexican border, taking her into the world of a cult known as The Chosen. For eight years, followers of The Prophet have hidden the child, moving her from country to country, shielding the man who stole her. Now, those who’ve searched the longest know where to find her. They are childhood survivors of The Chosen, thirty-somethings born and raised inside the cult who’ve managed to make lives for themselves on the outside. They understand the mindset, the culture within that world, and turn to Vanessa Michael Munroe for help, knowing that the only possibility of stealing Hannah back and getting her safely out of Argentina is to trust someone who doesn’t trust them, and get Munroe on the inside.

Review: The worst has happened, someone thought it'd be a great marketing technique to compare this book to Steig Larsson's series The Girl With the Dragon Tattoo. Honestly, who wants to read a rip-off of the same thing? I was skeptical, but relief came when I realized I actually did enjoy this book. There are some similarities to Larsson's thrillers, but not a hijack of the bandwagon. Set in Buenos Aries, the search to locate The Chosen's various haven cult houses moves steadily and at a good pace. You won't have to wade through 600 pages of tiny print to get to the end. However, I felt there was enough description, action and background given to make this a feasibly believable story. It is incredible, but the building blocks are there, and everything is checked off and in place. Explanations are given, without lengthy pages of reasoning. I liked the get-to-the point approach and strong characters. My attachment to them was a bit lacking, but I did not read the first book and took that into consideration, placing the fault on myself, not the author. I'd recommend taking this book along on vacation or picking up when in the mood for a snatch and grab thriller. Not a deep-thinking mystery, but contains action and an interesting plot-line that will entertain and hold the readers interest to the final page.
*ARC provided for review by Amazon Vine courtesy of the Crown Publishing Group

Recommend reading the Informationist first.

Wicked Winter Read-A-Thon: In Progress...

2012-02-02T20:45:00.000-08:00

Are you doing the Wicked Winter Read-A-Thon? I am too! It's hosted by Rebecca at Kindle Fever and April at My Shelf Confessions. Follow along at the hashtag #WWreadathon on Twitter

My reading progress:

The Innocent
Author Taylor Stevens
FINISHED
I give it 4 stars!
Click to view REVIEW
With The Innocent, Taylor Stevens, author of The Informationist, returns with another thriller featuring the fearless Vanessa Michael Munroe. Eight years ago, a man walked five-year-old Hannah out the front doors of her school and spirited her over the Mexican border, taking her into the world of a cult known as The Chosen. For eight years, followers of The Prophet have hidden the child, moving her from country to country, shielding the man who stole her. Now, those who’ve searched the longest know where to find her. They are childhood survivors of The Chosen, thirty-somethings born and raised inside the cult who’ve managed to make lives for themselves on the outside. They understand the mindset, the culture within that world, and turn to Vanessa Michael Munroe for help, knowing that the only possibility of stealing Hannah back and getting her safely out of Argentina is to trust someone who doesn’t trust them, and get Munroe on the inside.

History of A Pleasure Seeker
Author Richard Mason
An opulent, romantic novel, written in the grand manner, set at the height of Europe's belle epoque, about a handsome young man in his mid-twenties--a golden boy who secures a position as a tutor in the household of one of the most prominent bourgeois families in Amsterdam and his entry into a world of moneyed glamour and dangerous temptations. Piet Barol, blue-eyed, dark-haired, seductive and seductively charged, enters this magnificent world, and inexorably learns the hidden truths of this vastly rich, secretive family and, through the course of the novel, is profoundly transformed as his charm and sexual pull transform each of their lives. In the heady exhilaration of this new world, amid delights and temptations that Piet has only dreamed of, he discovers that some of the intimacies he has cultivated are dangerous liaisons indeed.

The Lantern by Deborah Lawrenson

2012-01-10T15:47:00.000-08:00

The Lantern
Author Deborah Lawrenson

Meeting Dom was the most incredible thing that had ever happened to me. When Eve falls for the secretive, charming Dom in Switzerland, their whirlwind relationship leads them to Les GenÉvriers, an abandoned house set among the fragrant lavender fields of the South of France. Each enchanting day delivers happy discoveries: hidden chambers, secret vaults, a beautiful wrought-iron lantern. Deeply in love and surrounded by music, books, and the heady summer scents of the French countryside, Eve has never felt more alive.But with autumn’s arrival the days begin to cool, and so, too, does Dom. Though Eve knows he bears the emotional scars of a failed marriage—one he refuses to talk about—his silence arouses suspicion and uncertainty. The more reticent Dom is to explain, the more Eve becomes obsessed with finding answers—and with unraveling the mystery of his absent, beautiful ex-wife, Rachel.Like its owner, Les GenÉvriers is also changing. Bright, warm rooms have turned cold and uninviting; shadows now fall unexpectedly; and Eve senses a presence moving through the garden. Is it a ghost from the past or a manifestation of her current troubles with Dom? Can she trust Dom, or could her life be in danger? Eve does not know that Les GenÉvriers has been haunted before. Benedicte Lincel, the house’s former owner, thrived as a young girl within the rich elements of the landscape: the violets hidden in the woodland, the warm wind through the almond trees. She knew the bitter taste of heartbreak and tragedy—long-buried family secrets and evil deeds that, once unearthed, will hold shocking and unexpected consequences for Eve.

Review: I have mixed feelings about this particular book. It is well-written and researched, with defined characters and wonderful Hemingway-like setting descriptions. However, as you can see by the synopsis, much is already revealed on the back cover. For me, as a reader, this can send a red flag. Why is it necessary to preview with a string of questions and detail to this extend? Is it a way to point the reader in the correct direction or to premise the read with enough information to guide to a conclusion? After perusing, do you really need to read the entire book? But wait, so many questions are posed and I don't have the answers...so, yes I will read the book! I recommend setting aside a chuck of time if you're going to crack the spine on this one. The story is told in shifts of the same setting. This occurs often, sometimes within a few pages. If you have to pick up and put down the book you may lose track of who is speaking or what parallel and mind you're in. I know I did. Also, there are redundant perspectives of the same incident told or remembered so this won't help if you've lost where you are in the story. Much backtracking and re-reading may be necessary to get oriented again. I felt a little beaten over the head by the retelling of incidents. New clues were given, but not enough to warrant my re-reading of several scenes. I found this irritating and boring, but I kept on thinking some greater 'ah-ha' moment would come and I'd be rewarded for all my tenacity. Certain things are revealed but it's more of a 'ho-hum', than a ah-ha' moment. All in all, it didn't move fast enough for my taste or deliver the shock promised.

*ARC provided by Harper courtesy of Amazon Vine

That's A Wrap! Closing the Book on 2011 Reading Challenges

2012-01-03T23:28:00.000-08:00

2011 is officially in the record books. I tracked my reading goals this past year with the help of my page tab and side progress bars. Below is a complete list of all the books I finished. Most titles also include a book review. That is a lot of pages and a lot of thoughts! I'm proud that I completed almost every challenge. I gave it a good go and intend to challenge myself in 2012 as well. I have set a new tab at the top of my page see "2012 Reading Challenges" to view where I'm participating and progress. It's not too late to join in the fun. I hope you jump in too and see what you can accomplish!

I'm giving myself a big pat on the back. I expanded my reading boundaries, ventured into some new genres/categories, was introduced to awesome authors and discovered a wide range of imaginations. It was a blast! I might not have made the leap without the push. Much thanks to the hosts and participants, to the bloggers, tweeters, reviewers, tour coordinators, authors, agents, booksellers, Goodreads, LibraryThing, Amazon Vine Program, promoters and galleys for supporting the book and review industry.

To view book covers and links click on LAUNDRY LIST
Historical Tour de Genre
Bitsy Bling Books
6 books from 6 different historical sub-genres
Mystery
1. India Black by Carol K. Carr
2. The Reservoir by John Milliken Thompson
Horror
1. Taker, The by Alma Katsu
Young Adult
1. The Betrayal of Maggie Blair by Elizabeth Laird
2. Blackbirch Woods by Meredith Anne DeVoe
Plantation
1. Conquistadora by Esmeralda Santiago
Paranormal
1. Vespertine by Saundra Mitchell
2. Ice Cradle, The by Mary Ann Winkowski and Maureen Foley
3. Haunting Violet by Alyxandra Harvey
Fantasy/Sci-Fi
1. Soulless by Gail Carriger

The Steampunk Challenge
The Book Keeper
1. Soulless by Gail Carriger
2. The Mysterious Lady Law by Robert Appleton
3. The Clockwork Angel by Cassandra Clare

1st In Series 2011 Challenge

A Few More Pages

1. Soulless by Gail Carriger

2. Darkness Becomes Her by Kelly Keaton

3. The Dark Divine by Bree Despain

4. Hush, Hush by Becca Fitzpatrick

5. When Did We Lose Harriet? by Patricia Sprinkle

6. Clarity by Kim Harrington

********

Additional books

7. Clockwork Angel by Cassandra Clare
8. Darkhouse by Karina Halle

Horror & Urban Fantasy Challenge
Book Chick City
Level
Read 24+ novels
1. Soulless by Gail Carriger
2. Darkness Becomes Her by Kelly Keaton
3. Asylum Lake by R.A. Evans
4. Cutting the Fat by Maria Savva and Jason McIntyre
5. The Dark Divine by Bree Despain
6. The Lost Saint by Bree Despain
7. Hush, Hush by Becca Fitzpatrick
8. You Believers by Jane Bradley
9. Lake, The by Richard Laymon
10. Ice Cradle, The by Mary Ann Winkowski and Maureen Foley
11. Grundish and Askew by Lance Carbuncle
12. Summoner, The by Layton Green
13. White Devil, The by Justin Evans
14. Drowning in the Dark by Allison Karras
15. Haunting Violet by Alyxandra Harvey
16. Darkhouse by Karina Halle
17. Eyes of the Dead, The by G.R. Yeates
18. The Marked Son by Shea Berkley
19. Red Fox by Karina Halle
20. Zombie Mage Jonathan J. Drake
21. Dead Sky Morning by Karina Halle
22. Harbor by John Ajvide Lindqvist
23. Taker, The by Alma Katsu
24. The Season of Risks by Susan Hubbard

Gothic Reading Challenge
http://gothicreadingchallenge.blogspot.com
Level The Darkness Within - Read 5 novels with Gothic elements.

1. Soulless by Gail Carriger
2. Hush, Hush by Becca Fitzpatrick
3. Ice Cradle, The by Mary Ann Winkowski and Maureen Foley
4. Clockwork Angel by Cassandra Clare
5. White Devil, The by Justin Evans
6. Haunting Violet by Alyxandra Harvey

Chunkster Challenge
Chunkster Challenge blog
The Chubby Chunkster level
450+ pages. No ebooks. No short story collections/essays. Cross-over ok.
1. Madame Tussaud by Michelle Moran
2. Clockwork Angel by Cassandra Clare
3. In This Hospitable Land by Lynmar Brock, Jr.
4. At Home With the Templetons by Monica McInerney

Vacation Read Challenge
Ruby's Reads
Read 6 books that have places you want to visit (any genre)
June - September 2011
I just couldn't get six books that met the criteria of having places I wanted to visit in them completed in the time frame, but 2 of 6 was a good effort.
1. Conquistadora by Esmeralda Santiago (Puerto Rico)
2. Dreams Unleashed by Linda Hawley (Shanghai)

Outdo Yourself Reading Challenge
The Book Vixen
Levels
Out of breath – Read 6–10 more books
The previous year I read 60 books. This year I finished with 72! I met my challenge. Next year I have to read at least 82! That's a tall order.
1. Soulless by Gail Carriger
2. Darkness Becomes Her by Kelly Keaton
3. The Betrayal of Maggie Blair by Elizabeth Laird
4. Asylum Lake by R.A. Evans
5. Cutting the Fat by Maria Savva and Jason McIntyre
6. Penelope's Daughter by Laurel Corona
7. The Mysterious Lady Law by Robert Appleton
8. The Dark Divine by Bree Despain
9. The Lost Saint by Bree Despain
10. India Black by Carol K. Carr
11. Hush, Hush by Becca Fitzpatrick
12. Endless Love by Scott Spencer
13. You Believers by Jane Bradley
14. Imaginary Jesus by Matt Mikalatos
15. When Did We Lose Harriet? by Patricia Sprinkle
16. Madame Tussaud by Michelle Moran
17. Clarity by Kim Harrington
18. Death Line by Geraldine Evans
19. Ice Cradle, The by Mary Ann Winkowski and Maureen Foley
20. Homecoming of Samuel Lake, The by Jenny Wingfield
21. Beatrice Munson by Lorena Bathey
22. Lake, The by Richard Laymon
23. Grundish and Askew by Lance Carbuncle
24. Clockwork Angel by Cassandra Clare
25. Meteoric Rise of Simon Burchwood, The by Scott Semegran
26. Summoner, The by Layton Green
27. In This Hospitable Land by Lynmar Brock, Jr.
28. White Devil, The by Justin Evans
29. At Home With the Templetons by Monica McInerney
30. Electric Barracuda by Tim Dorsey
31. Claire Dewitt and the City of the Dead by Sara Gran
32. Uncle Sam's Carnival of Copulating Inanimals by Kirk Jones
33. Mercury Falls by Robert Kroese
34. Drowning in the Dark by Allison Karras
35. The Reservoir by John Milliken Thompson
36. Kidnapping the Lorax by Patricia K. Lichen
37. Haunting Violet by Alyxandra Harvey
38. Darkhouse by Karina Halle
39. Nether by Jason Beymer
40. The Twisted Thread by Charlotte Bacon
41. Blackbirch Woods by Meredith Anne DeVoe
42. Still Life With Brass Pole by Craig Machen
43. Rico Slade Will Fucking Kill You by Bradley Sands
44. Conquistadora by Esmeralda Santiago
45. Eyes of the Dead, The G.R. Yeates
46. Wahoo Rhapsody by Shaun Morey
47. Starfish Girl by Athena Villaverde
48. Felix and the Sacred Thor byJames Steele
49. Bucket of Face by Eric Hendrixson
50. Death by Zamboni by David David Katzman
51. Ward Against Death by Melanie Card
52. Chasing Amanda by Melissa Foster
53. Beast of Burden by Ray Banks
54. Grip: A Memoir of Fierce Attractions by Nina Hamberg
55. Take the All-Mart! by J.I. Greco
56. The Marked Son by Shea Berkley
57. Red Fox by Karina Halle
58. My Life, the Theater and Other Tragedies by Allen Zadoff
59. Dreams Unleashed by Linda Hawley
60. The Mighty Walzer by Howard Jacobson
61. Zombie Mage by Jonathan J. Drake
62. Machine Man by Max Barry
63. Domestic Violets by Matthew Norman
64. Every You, Every Me by David Levithan
65. Night Circus, The by Erin Morgenstern
66. Monarch by Michelle Davidson Argyle
67. Dead Sky Morning by Karina Halle
68. Harbor by John Ajvide Lindqvist
69. Taker, The by Alma Katsu
70. When Elves Attack by Tim Dorsey
71. Boxer Beetle by Ned Beauman
72. The Season of Risks by Susan Hubbard

I Want More 2011 Book Challenge
Tea Time With Marce
Give me more: 5 - 8 books

1. Cutting the Fat by Maria Savva and Jason McIntyre
2. The Lost Saint by Bree Despain
3. Red Fox by Karina Halle
4. Dead Sky Morning by Karina Hallee
5. When Elves Attack by Tim Dorsey
6. The Season of Risks by Susan Hubbard

100 Books In A Year
Book Chick City
Twitter hashtag #100BooksInAYear

1. Soulless by Gail Carriger
2. Darkness Becomes Her by Kelly Keaton
3. The Betrayal of Maggie Blair by Elizabeth Laird
4. Asylum Lake by R.A. Evans
5. Cutting the Fat by Maria Savva and Jason McIntyre
6. Penelope's Daughter by Laurel Corona
7. The Mysterious Lady Law by Robert Appleton
8. The Dark Divine by Bree Despain
9. The Lost Saint by Bree Despain
10. India Black by Carol K. Carr
11. Hush, Hush by Becca Fitzpatrick
12. Endless Love by Scott Spencer
13. You Believers by Jane Bradley
14. Imaginary Jesus by Matt Mikalatos
15. When Did We Lose Harriet? by Patricia Sprinkle
16. Madame Tussaud by Michelle Moran
17. Clarity by Kim Harrington
18. Death Line by Geraldine Evans
19. Ice Cradle, The by Mary Ann Winkowski and Maureen Foley
20. Homecoming of Samuel Lake, The by Jenny Wingfield
21. Beatrice Munson by Lorena Bathey
22. Lake, The by Richard Laymon
23. Grundish and Askew by Lance Carbuncle
24. Clockwork Angel by Cassandra Clare
25. Meteoric Rise of Simon Burchwood, The by Scott Semegran
26. Summoner, The by Layton Green
27. In This Hospitable Land by Lynmar Brock, Jr.
28. White Devil, The by Justin Evans
29. At Home With the Templetons by Monica McInerney
30. Electric Barracuda by Tim Dorsey
31. Claire Dewitt and the City of the Dead by Sara Gran
32. Uncle Sam's Carnival of Copulating Inanimals by Kirk Jones
33. Mercury Falls by Robert Kroese
34. Drowning in the Dark by Allison Karras
35. The Reservoir by John Milliken Thompson
36. Kidnapping the Lorax by Patricia K. Lichen
37. Haunting Violet by Alyxandra Harvey
38. Darkhouse by Karina Halle
39. Nether by Jason Beymer
40. The Twisted Thread by Charlotte Bacon
41. Blackbirch Woods by Meredith Anne DeVoe
42. Still Life With Brass Pole by Craig Machen
43. Rico Slade Will Fucking Kill You by Bradley Sands
44. Conquistadora by Esmeralda Santiago
45. Eyes of the Dead, The G.R. Yeates
46. Wahoo Rhapsody by Shaun Morey
47. Starfish Girl by Athena Villaverde
48. Felix and the Sacred Thor by James Steele
49. Bucket of Face by Eric Hendrixson
50. Death by Zamboni by David David Katzman
51. Ward Against Death by Melanie Card
52. Chasing Amand a by Melissa Foster
53. Beast of Burden by Ray Banks
54. Grip: A Memoir of Fierce Attractions by Nina Hamberg
55. Take the All-Mart! by J.I. Greco
56. The Marked Son by Shea Berkley
57. Red Fox by Karina Halle
58. My Life, the Theater and Other Tragedies by Allen Zadoff
59. Dreams Unleashed by Linda Hawley
60. The Mighty Walzer by Howard Jacobson
61. Zombie Mage by Jonathan J. Drake
62. Machine Man by Max Barry
63. Domestic Violets by Matthew Norman
64. Every You, Every Me by David Levithan
65. NIght Circus, The by Erin Morgenstern
66. Monarch by Michelle Davidson Argyle
67. Dead Sky Morning by Karina Halle
68. Harbor by John Ajvide Lindqvist
69. Taker, The by Alma Katsu
70. When Elves Attack by Tim Dorsey
71. Boxer Beetle by Ned Beauman
72. The Season of Risks by Susan Hubbard

The BEST of 2011 Giveaway

2011-12-27T00:15:00.000-08:00

Click on image for participating blogs

This is my favorite giveaway theme of the year because I get to announce the top ten choices from my 2011 reading list. In 2010, I completed 60 books for review. This year, I out did myself and reviewed 73 books. That's alot of words and pages! Each year, I receive requests from various genres and avenues of publishing. I wish I could say yes to every one of them, but it's not possible. Books that land on my TBR list are chosen for several reasons (see review policy).

Readers tend to notice that the Bitsy Bling Books Best of... list won't always match the bestseller or be closely in line with other year-end booklists. Why? Reviewing books is a biased job and it comes down to an individual criteria, personal interest and background. It's not that I don't read books from those 'other' lists, but I also mix in independent and smaller press. It really doesn't surprise me that more of the latter tend to top my chart. I do enjoy writers who take risks, even when knowing that perhaps their particular story won't appeal, which translates into selling big in the mass market, to a grand audience. The reason I started this review was because I didn't fit into the typical demographic, so it makes sense that my yearly BEST of... list wouldn't either. If you haven't heard of or are wavering on a title listed below, I encourage you to give one of these books a chance. If you love it, try more! In my humble opinion, these books were the best books I read this year. Note: Not all were published in 2011, but were read.

To celebrate, I am giving away to a lucky winner their choice of any title from the below list! Click on image to read synopsis and my review of each book.

TO ENTER

Fill out form below
Enter before midnight Dec. 31
Bonus points for tweeting

Click on button for easy

#1 The White Devil by Justin Evans

#2 Endless Love by Scott Spencer

#3 Still Life With Brass Pole

by Craig Machen

#4 Grundish & Askew by Lance Carbuncle

#5 Darkhouse by Karina Halle

#6 The Vespertine by Saundra Mitchell

#7 The Ice Cradle

by Mary Ann Winkowski and Maureen Foley

#8 Wahoo Rhapsody by Shaun Morey

#9 Grip: A Memoir of Fierce Attractions

by Nina Hamberg

#10 Asylum Lake by R.A. Evans

&lt;p&gt;&amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;p&amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;p&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;p&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;p&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;p&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;p&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;p&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;p&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;p&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;p&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;p&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;p&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;p&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;p&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;p&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;p&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;p&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;a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Stocking Stuffer! Win $10 Amazon gift card

2011-12-20T17:48:00.000-08:00

Welcome

Mid-Winter's Eve Giveaway Hop!

This year I'm giving away a $10 Amazon gift card. This way you can pick out any book or put the money towards a book you're dying to read. This little stocking stuffer is easy to win. Simply fill out the entry form below. The best part about this hop is the amazing opportunities to win lots of goodies. Check out the list of participating blogs that are offering creative gifts! Hop around, visit, enter and discover a wonderful community of book lovers.

Also, don't forget to browse the right-side bar or click on 2012 Reading Challenge if you're interested in joining virtual book clubs/reading goal groups. I've been doing them for two years, and I really enjoy tracking my reading and setting goals. It keeps me active and I've meet some great people with similar interests.

Open to anyone who can use a $10 Amazon.com card
Must enter between Dec. 21-27
Bonus points for Tweeting
Fill out and submit entry form

&lt;p&gt;&amp;amp;lt;p&amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;lt;p&amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;lt;p&amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;lt;p&amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;lt;p&amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;lt;p&amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;lt;p&amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;lt;p&amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;lt;p&amp;amp;gt;Loading...&amp;amp;lt;/p&amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;lt;/p&amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;lt;/p&amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;lt;/p&amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;lt;/p&amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;lt;/p&amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;lt;/p&amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;lt;/p&amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;lt;/p&amp;amp;gt;&lt;/p&gt;

Easy tweeting made possible! To earn bonus points

Fast, easy and way cool! Help spread the love!

Click on

Want more giveaway fun?
Click on ENTIRE LIST OF BLOGS to visit more sites and giveaways.

Jacob T. Marley by R. Willaim Bennett

2011-12-14T12:42:00.000-08:00

Jacob T. Marley
Author R. William Bennett

Marley was dead to begin with . . . These chillingly familiar words begin the classic Christmas tale of remorse and redemption in A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens. Now, R. William Bennett rewinds the story and focuses the spotlight on Scrooge's miserly business partner, Jacob T. Marley, who was allowed to return as a ghost to warn Scrooge away from his ill-fated path. Why was Marley allowed to return? And why hadn't he been given the same chance as Ebenezer Scrooge? Or had he? Written with a voice reminiscent of Dickens, Jacob T. Marley is to A Christmas Carol as the world-famous Wicked is to The Wizard of Oz as this masterfully crafted story teaches of choices, consequences, and of the power of accountability. It is sure to become a Christmas favorite.

Review: This is a re-telling of a holiday favorite from a different perspective. However, the point-of-view is not necessarily unique and shares much the same that readers already know about the story from the Scrooge. I was disappointed that nothing knew or a fresh twist was put on the tale and that I learned little that was different from what has already been written. The promise of insight is limited and fails to reveal much about Marley that isn't already cast out by the original Scrooge. Readers who enjoy re-reading the Christmas classics over and over each season may enjoy this version. It won't rattle any chains or upset the holiday cheer, but it does get a bit preachy mid-way. For me, this approach is about as palatable as fruitcake. I'm not convinced Dickens would let Marley off with such a weak epiphany nor would he delve into the righteousness of it all. All in all, I was let down with the lack of creative stretch and depth. It simply skated along on the back of an old tale.

*ARC provided by Shadow Mountain Publishing courtesy of NetGalley

JournalStone $2,000 Advance in 2012 Publishing Contest

2011-12-13T13:26:00.000-08:00

Calling all HORROR writers!

Now accepting 75,000 words or more manuscript/novel on or before April 1, 2012. The winner will receive a $2,000 advance against future royalties and have his/her novel published by JournalStone. Grammar counts, have it edited before you submit your entry.

JournalStone is a small press publishing company, not a vanity press. We pay all the costs associate with publishing your novel. All an author is required to do is submit a freakishly scary book and rock our world. There are no entry fees.
Genre: Horror only. Nothing else counts in this contest.

For more details please visit JOURNALSTONE webpage.

Why am I posting this on a book review blog? Because I am on the 2012 contest panel of judges! Woot!

BIO: Charlie Courtland is a fabulous dichotomy that embraces all her ridiculousness. She’s a published author of three gruesome books in the historical fiction/horror genre. She founded Bitsy Bling Books to give a voice and free review forum to indie/self-published authors, but also reviews for tall, grande and venti mainstream publishing and Amazon Vine. She graduated from the University of Washington with a B.A. in English Literature with an emphasis on Creative Writing, and a minor in Criminology. Courtland rarely sleeps, drinks copious amounts of coffee and mutters endlessly to her dog.

What we'll be looking for: Judging Criteria

Plot, Character Development, Setting, Rhythm, Grammar, Structure, Uniqueness, Style, Marketability, Judge’s Objective

2011 Advance in Publishing WINNER

That Which Should Not Be
Author Brett J. Talley
Miskatonic University has a long-whispered reputation of being strongly connected to all things occult and supernatural. From the faculty to the students, the fascination with other-worldly legends and objects runs rampant. So, when Carter Weston’s professor Dr. Thayerson asks him to search a nearby village for a book that is believed to control the inhuman forces that rule the Earth, Incendium Maleficarum, The Inferno of the Witch, the student doesn’t hesitate to begin the quest.

Weston’s journey takes an unexpected turn, however, when he ventures into a tavern in the small town of Anchorhead. Rather than passing the evening as a solitary patron, Weston joins four men who regale him with stories of their personal experiences with forces both preternatural and damned. Two stories hit close to home as they tie the tellers directly to Weston’s current mission.

His unanticipated role as passive listener proves fortuitous, and Weston fulfills his goal. Bringing the book back to Miskatonic, though, proves to be a grave mistake. Quickly, Weston realizes he has played a role in potentially opening the gate between the netherworld and the world of Man. Reversing the course of events means forgetting all he thought he knew about Miskatonic and his professor and embracing an unknown beyond his wildest imagination.

Boxer and Bugs: The Boxer Beetle

2011-12-11T22:23:00.001-08:00

Boxer Beetle
Author Ned Beauman

Kevin "Fishy" Broom has his nickname for a reason-a rare genetic condition that makes his sweat and other bodily excretions smell markedly like rotting fish. Consequently, he rarely ventures out of the London apartment where he deals online in Nazi memorabilia. But when Fishy stumbles upon a crime scene, he finds himself on the long-cold trail of a pair of small-time players in interwar British history. First, there's Philip Erskine, a fascist gentleman entomologist who dreams of breeding an indomitable beetle as tribute to Reich Chancellor Hitler's glory, all the while aspiring to arguably more sinister projects in human eugenics. And then there's Seth "Sinner" Roach, a homosexual Jewish boxer, nine-toed, runtish, brutish-but perfect in his way-who becomes an object of obsession for Erskine, professionally and most decidedly otherwise. What became of the boxer? What became of the beetle? And what will become of anyone who dares to unearth the answers?

Review: The synopsis of this story about sums it up and to add any more detail would surely ruin it for the reader. Imaginative and original, the Boxer Beetle is a collage of literary style, but not in a rip-off sort of way, but rather, cleverly interrogating classic greats paying homage to the boundary breakers who came before this generation. A pace-setting, genre-spanning tale that breeds Salinger, Kafka and Miller into a pretty specimen that can hold its own weight in any class or fight. Something about this dark tale gets under the skin and stews. I was thinking about it long after the back cover closed. It's a deeply thematic and morally provocative tale--definitely worth a read.

*ARC provided by Bloomsbury USA courtesy of Amazon Vine

When Elves Attack by Tim Dorsey

2011-12-04T21:09:00.001-08:00

When Elves Attack
Author Tim Dorsey

I’m dreaming of a Serge Christmas...

Palm trees with twinkle lights...

Santa’s big belly protruding over a neon Speedo...

It’s ho, ho, ho time in this hilarious and wacky Florida holiday tale, featuring bighearted psychopath Serge Storms and his sidekick, Coleman. Like Santa, Serge knows who’s been naughty and who’s been nice. Few can give with the generosity and creativity of Serge, and as December 24 rolls around, he is filling up the Serge sleigh with an unforgettable bag of presents. But before that, it’s all a big free-range Christmas office party, where Serge will be spreading his special cheer. And there’s that last-minute go-for-broke spree at the mall (just beware of those attacking elves—they bite). While you’re there, skip the lame photo on Santa’s lap—Serge will give you a lap ride you’ll never forget. As for that addled elf Coleman, there’s nothing like a white Christmas. Let it snow! So grab a six-pack, spike the eggnog, and hit the dunes on the beach as Serge and Coleman roast some nuts on an open fire and prove that reindeer really do know how to fly!

Review: This is not your Nana’s Christmas story. If you’re looking for a heart-warming,fuzzy, good-feeling read, Tim Dorsey’s style will shock your stockingsoff. This satirical tale mighteven strip the stripe off a candy cane or two. However, twisted folks that giggle at Christopher Moore andare amused by Beavis and Butthead-like antics, will fa-la-la-la-la throughthe pages of this short gem. Spikethe eggnog and dress the white elephant gift with the Sunday funny paper,because When Elves Attack is packed with classic Dorsey shenanigans wrapped ina shiny bright bow. Yeah, it’snothing knew, but it’s funny as hell. This isn’t highbrow stuff, but who wants to strain their brain afterhours at the mall? This is the perfect book to take along to the in-laws over the holidays or will make an excellent gift for that hard-to-buy-for nutbar relative. Let’s face it you’re probably going toneed a laugh by the end of the evening anyways! Sometimes it’s good to remember that it could be worse. You could live in Florida across thestreet from Serge Storms on Triggerfish Lane.

*ARC provided by William Morrow courtesy of Amazon Vine

It's Time to Join 2012 Twisted Tales Reading Challenge!

2011-12-02T15:10:00.000-08:00

I'm a total nutbar and I really like reading about other nutbars. I've decided to open a 2012 Twisted Tales Reading Challenge to spread awareness about the deranged, comical and mostly absurd sub-culture lurking in the bizarre minds of lesser known authors. Okay, some are famous authors. However, most aren't, but should be recognized for their sicko plots and weird thoughts. Twisted Tales covers a wide range and often is a sub-genre or appendage of a larger category (horror, mystery, sci-fi, fantasy, suspense, ect.) which will allow for cross-over challenge goodness. Yep, that's even more of an incentive to join. If I get you to read at least one bizarre book in 2012 I will do a glorious dance and appease the reading Gods with my influential greatness.

How do I know if it's "Twisted?" I'll let you decide. Use your own judgement and reading experience, but most contain common elements (not limited to the ones listed below). I'm sure I haven't thought of them all - if it's weird, it's twisted and counts. Stop fretting, just read.

Absurd - Focuses on the experiences of characters in a situation where they cannot find any inherent purpose in life, most often represented by ultimately meaningless actions and events. Common elements are satire, dark humor,incongruity, abasement of reason and philosophy.
Dark comedy - A comedy having gloomy or disturbing elements, especially one in which acharacter suffers an irreparable loss. A comedy characterized by morbid or grimly satiric humor.
Satire When vices, follies, abuses, and shortcomings are held up to ridicule, ideally with the intent of shaming individuals, and society itself, into improvement. Although satire is usually meant to be funny, its greater purpose is often constructive social criticism, using wit as aweapon. A common feature of satire is strong irony or sarcasm, but also parody, burlesque, exaggeration; juxtaposition, comparison, analogy, and double entendre are frequently used.
Bizarro Just what it sounds like ‘weird.’ May employ elements of surrealism, avant-garde, science fiction, fantasy, gore, humor, and sometimes borderlines on pornographic. Content is often strange, thought-provoking and most importantly, entertaining. General definition compiled from info. found at: Eraserhead Press http://www.bizarrocentral.com/about.html

SIGN UP: PLEASE post on your blog about participating in the challenge. Spreading the word is the goal. BLOGGERS: I'd appreciate it if you use the DIRECT URL of the post or challenge page to sign up by adding it to the Linky Tool below. If you don't have a blog, just FILL OUT FORM to participate. Easy.

CHALLENGE LEVELS - books read

1-12 I scare small children
13-24 I'm a certified nutbar
25-48 A straight jacket won't hold me. RUN!

Bloggers: Please add the challenge button to your sidebar - make sure that it links back to this post so others can join the challenge if they wish. Easiest way to do this is to copy and paste the code displayed below!

Select books as you go. If you prefer to set a TBR list that is perfectly find, feel free to change or add at anytime! The books you read can crossover into other challenges. Multi-tasking is fun.

Begins January 1, 2012 but you can join at anytime. All books read in 2012 count towards the challenge regardless of when you sign up.

Audiobooks do not count - that's listening, not reading. All other formats, accepted.

You don't have to have a blog? For those without a blog just FILL IN FORM and I will add you to the list.

Track your own progress. Update and post at your convenience. An end of the year wrap-up post is encouraged, but not required. Post as often as you like and please, if you liked the book, don't forget to write a review (amazon, B&N, Goodreads ect.) - again, not required, but greatly appreciated. Trust me, the authors will love you for it.

If you need help choosing twisted tale reads check out TWISTED TALES SHELF at Goodreads or visit Bizarro Central for starter ideas - but certainly not limited to these reads or sites. Got a recommendation to share, leave it in the comments and I will add it to the list. Thx.

Bonus(not required): Since your reading books anyways, why not earn some free bizarro books by joining the brigade? Click on Bizarro Brigade for more info. - Not required for participation in challenge, just a helpful suggestion :) Bizarro on Facebook.

The Taker by Alma Katsu

2011-12-02T12:37:00.001-08:00

The Taker
Author Alma Katsu

On the midnight shift at a hospital in rural Maine, Dr. Luke Findley is expecting another quiet evening offrostbite and the occasional domestic dispute. But the minute Lanore McIlvrae—Lanny—walks into his ER, she changes his life forever. A mysterious woman with a past and plenty of dark secrets, Lanny is unlike anyone Luke has ever met. He is inexplicably drawn to her . . . despite the fact that she is a murder suspect with a police escort. And as she begins to tell her story, a story of enduring love and consummate betrayal that transcends time and mortality, Luke finds himself utterly captivated. Her impassioned account begins atthe turn of the nineteenth century in the same small town of St. Andrew, Maine, back when it was a Puritan settlement. Consumed as a child by her love for the son of the town’s founder, Lanny will do anything to be with him forever. But the price she pays is steep—an immortal bond that chains her to a terrible fatefor all eternity. And now, two centuries later, the key to her healing and her salvation lies with Dr. Luke Findley.

Review: I know whatyou’re probably thinking, not another vampire story about immortality andlove! Once a fan of the vampirelore, I’ve come to loathe each new release because of the over and poorly donebooks flooding the market. However, I’m not completely jaded and I’m glad I gave The Taker a chance toseduce me back into the underworld. The story alternates between past and present combining modern withhistorical fiction. A spin onimmortality, or how it came about for these characters, adds a fresh twist thatis interesting and captivating. Author Alma Katsu establishes her own style combining fairy tale lorewith an Anne Rice like voice providing the story with an old school vamp feelthat made me grin and turn page after lovely page. Don’t get me wrong, it’s not redundant or copied by anymeans, but if you prefer tradition with a turn, you’ll enjoy reading The Taker.

*ARC provided by Gallery Books courtesy of Amazon Vine Review

Got Book Specials? Let Me Know!

2011-11-29T13:31:00.001-08:00

Happy Holidays! I'm currently collecting book specials. If you're an author, publisher, agent or promotor (or go by another title I'm missing :)) Feel free to fill out the form below so your holiday book special gets listed on the site. Books make great gifts and I'm sure some lucky ducks will be getting a shiny new ereader or gift card as a present this year. It's easy to find the big titles, but lets help those savvy readers find deals that others might miss because they don't have the inside connection!

FILL OUT FORM AND SUBMIT!
* Books will be listed by genre and in order as received.
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2012 TBR PILE Reading Challenge

2011-11-27T14:06:00.001-08:00

To SIGN UP or View entire list of rules click here: TBR PILE Challenge
Hosts:
Evie from Bookish - http://www.evie-bookish.blogspot.com @SeoEvie
Nicole from All I Ever Read - http://www.nicoleabouttown.com/ @Nicoleabouttown
Bonnie from Hands and Home - http://www.handsandhome.ca/ @HandsHomeBlog
Donna from Book Passion For Life - http://bookpassionforlife.blogspot.com/ @BookPforLife
Caitlin from WatchYA Reading - http://whatchyareading.net @caitlingss
Rie from Mission To Read - http://missiontoread.com/ @missiontoread
Vicky from Books, Biscuits & Tea -http://booksbiscuitsandtea.blogspot.com/ @alouetteuette
Christa from Hooked On Books - http://christashookedonbooks.blogspot.com @ChristasBooks
Jenna from Fans Of Fiction - http://fansoffiction.blogspot.com/ @fansoffiction
Angel from Mermaids Vision - http://mermaidvision.wordpress.com @mermaidvisions
This by far is the challenge I need the most! I haven't yet decided which books I will include on my list, but will add them soon after reviewing my dusty Goodreads shelves and stack of neglected books. Since we can 'level up' but can't 'level down' I'm going to start at the: 1-10 - A Firm Handshake Level

GRATITUDE GIVEAWAY!

2011-11-16T13:08:00.001-08:00

This is the second year Bitsy Bling Books has participated in the Gratitude Giveaway. It's a way to say MUCHO GRACIAS to all who visit the book blog. I know there are tons of sites to choose from, so THANK YOU for taking the time to come here. I truly appreciate my followers.

Did I mention that 300+ other book bloggers are also showing their appreciation? Oh my, lots of books and goodies up for grabs! To hop around to all the awesome sites, click on:

I WANT MORE GRATITUDE GIVEAWAY
to view complete list.

THE WINNERS HAVE BEEN PICKED!!! CONGRATS

Colleen - Winner of Eternal on the Water

Ashlyn - Winner of A Tapestry of Dreams

*Winner notified via email

To show my appreciation for supporting reading, books, blogging, authors of all genres and rank, I'm giving away the following love to show my love!

ETERNAL ON THE WATER
Author Joseph Monninger
New paperback, 336 pages
From the day Cobb and Mary meet kayaking on Maine's Allagash River and fall deeply in love, the two approach life with the same sense of adventure they use to conquer the river's treacherous rapids. But rivers do not let go so easily...and neither does their love. So when Mary's life takes the cruelest turn, she vows to face those rough waters on her own terms and asks Cobb to promise, when the time comes, to help her return to their beloved river for one final journey.

A TAPESTRY OF DREAMS
Author Roberta Gellis
ARC new paperback, 485 pages
*cover is different than pictured
The lovely Lady Audris, whose delicate fingers weave fables of the future unto her tapestries, whose special gifts and radiant beauty set her apart in an enchanted age. And the knight they call Hugh Licorne. In service to his king ... a hero in an age of heroes ... a princely suitor for Lady Audris -- even though she cannot have him. Against all odds, they dare to search for love ... the lady who has sworn not to marry ... and the knight who has vowed to win her heart...

Harbor by John Ajvide Lindqvist

2011-11-13T13:35:00.001-08:00

HARBOR
Author John Ajvide Lindqvist

One ordinary winter afternoon on a snowy island, Anders and Cecilia take their six-year-old daughter Maja across the ice to visit the lighthouse in the middle of the frozen channel. While they are exploring the lighthouse, Maja disappears – either into thin air or under thin ice -- leaving not even a footprint in the snow. Two years later, Anders, a broken man, moves back to his family’s abandoned home on the island. He soon realizes that Maja's disappearance is only one of many strange occurrences, and that his fellow islanders, including his own grandmother, know a lot more than they’re telling. As he digs deeper, Anders begins to unearth a dark and deadly secret at the heart of this small, seemingly placid town.

Review: Each character is provided with a backstory, so you're getting several stories within the story. This can work in character development, but in this particular book, the original plot is dragged under and seemingly lost. The twists are slow to develop and after 300+ pages I really needed more to happen. Perhaps, because the intent is horror and suspense, but I became rather bored and disinterested. The pacing, like the island, is isolating and distant. For me, it created a detachment with the plot and I had no problem putting the book down, but soon found it difficult to pick back up. The gap between current bizarre happenings and long back story fractured the experience, making reading choppy and awkward. Frankly, what should be intriguing became boring and uneventful. By the end, the pages themselves were killing me and I had little motivation to read on.

* ARC provided by Thomas Dunne Books courtesy of Amazon Vine

The Christmas Spirit Reading Challenge

2011-11-10T13:35:00.001-08:00

The True Book Addict is hosting the annual

The Christmas Spirit Challenge.

Begins: Monday, November 21, 2011
Ends: Friday, January 6, 2012

For all the details and sign-up linky click on link below

The Christmas Spirit Reading Challenge

My Reading List:

When Elves Attack

A Joyous Christmas Greeting from the Criminal Nutbars of the Sunshine State

Author Tim Dorsey

I’m dreaming of a Serge Christmas . . .
Palm trees with twinkle lights . . .
Santa’s big belly protruding over a neon Speedo . . .
It’s ho, ho, ho time in this hilarious and wacky Florida holiday tale, featuring bighearted psychopath Serge Storms and his sidekick, Coleman. Like Santa, Serge knows who’s been naughty and who’s been nice. Few can give with the generosity and creativity of Serge, and as December 24 rolls around, he is filling up the Serge sleigh with an unforgettable bag of presents.But before that, it’s all a big free-range Christmas office party, where Serge will be spreading his special cheer. And there’s that last-minute go-for-broke spree at the mall (just beware of those attacking elves—they bite). While you’re there, skip the lame photo on Santa’s lap—Serge will give you a lap ride you’ll never forget. As for that addled elf Coleman, there’s nothing like a white Christmas. Let it snow! So grab a six-pack, spike the eggnog, and hit the dunes on the beach as Serge and Coleman roast some nuts on an open fire and prove that reindeer really do know how to fly!

FINISHED! MY REVIEW

SPOOKTACULAR Giveaway! Zombies, Zombies, Zombies

2011-10-23T21:48:00.000-07:00

It's time for the HUGE Spooktacular book hop and giveaway. This is no trick, only lots and lots of bookish treats! Over 420+ bloggers are giving away goodies. The Diary of A Bookworm and I Am A Reader have teamed up to co-host this annual event.

Of course, I'd love for each and every person who hops by to become a follower (if you haven't already), here at the blog and over at Bitsy Bling Books on Twitter @bitsyblingbooks. However, it's not required to enter. I attended the ZomBcom in Seattle this weekend and was lucky enough to meet author, Jeff Kinley, who generously provided a signed copy for this great giveaway!

WHAT'S UP FOR GRABS? A LUCKY WINNER WILL GET A SIGNED PAPERBACK COPY of THE CHRISTIAN ZOMBIE KILLERS HANDBOOK hand-carried with love from the 2nd ANNUAL ZOMBCOM held in Seattle.

Ben Forman was just an ordinary guy, a young professional starting his first job and falling in love with his girlfriend. Living in the outskirts of a southern city, he didn’t think the zombie activity so common in the major cities would hit so close to home. But it was becoming clear that the mysterious infection reanimating the deceased was a growing epidemic across the country. The question was, would he stay alive or become the undead?

In this one-of-a-kind approach to teaching about sin, grace, and salvation, The Christian Zombie Killers Handbook tracks the fictional life of Ben Forman and offers solid Bible teaching to help readers understand the gravity and consequences of life without God, of life as a zombie. Ephesians 2:4-5 says, “But because of his great love for us, God, who is rich in mercy, made us alive with Christ even when we were dead in our transgressions—it is by grace you have been saved.” Without the salvation Jesus offers, we are all as good as dead. But as this book teaches in a winsome, cutting-edge, culturally relevant style, anyone can kill the zombie inside, escape the clutches of the undead, and come alive by the supernatural power of God’s salvation.

More places you can find Jeff Kinley

Just click on the links, they'll take you directly to sites.

FACEBOOK The Christian Zombie Killers Handbook

TWITTER @Fabmaclen

What's Up At Zombie Con

2011-10-23T17:52:00.000-07:00

I wish I could have spent the weekend at the 2nd annual ZomBcon, but at least I had the pleasure of attending the event on Saturday. This was an all around great convention that included fantastic booths, merchandise, the artist alley, movie industry peeps and panels. Even though the event was a little spread out, I found it actually fan-friendly because it allowed for intimate interaction with everyone. People watching was entertaining. So many attendees dressed up and got into the spirit of the con. I met everyone I wanted to, had no problem getting photo-ops, autographs and a chance to chat with participants and vendors.

CHRIS MORENO

http://blog.chrismoreno.org/

Chris Moreno is a comics artist and creator whosework has appeared in Disney’s Toy Story for BOOM! Studios, and the upcomingPOP! The Darlings of America from IDW, as well as The Minions of Ka fromArcana, and Paul Jenkins’ Sidekick from Image Comics. His creator-ownedcharacter, Sanz Pantz: Ninja Platypus appears in the Popgun anthologies fromImage. His other comics credits include Alien Inventor, World War Hulk:Frontline, Dracula vs. King Arthur, Monkey in a Wagon vs. Lemur on a Big Wheel,The Last Sin of Mark Grimm, the webcomic Super Frat, and Zenescope’s GrimmFairy Tales. Chris’s work has appeared on sketch cards for Inkworks for TheSpirit, Shrek the Third, Alien Vs. Predator: Requiem, Hellboy: Sword of Storms,Robots and Family Guy. His art has also been seen in role-playing games forcompanies like Kenzer & Co., on their Hackmaster game and Knights of theDinner Table Magazine, and Tony DiGerolamo’s Complete Mafia for d20 from LivingRoom Games.

JOHN SKIPP

John Skipp is a New York Times bestselling author, editor, zombie godfather, compulsive collaborator, musical pornographer, black-humored optimist and all-around Renaissance mutant. His early novels from the 1980s and 90s pioneered the graphic, subversive, high-energy form known as splatterpunk. His anthology Book of the Dead was the beginning of modern post-Romero zombie literature. His work ranges from hardcore horror to whacked-out Bizarro to scathing social satire, all brought together with his trademark cinematic pace and intimate, unflinching, unmistakable voice. From young agitator to hilarious elder statesman, Skipp remains one of genre fiction's most colorful characters.

To view more books available by John Skipp click HERE

Click on John Skipp to check him out at Bizarro Central

JEFF KINLEY

Zombie Killers Handbook
Ben Forman was just an ordinary guy, a young professional starting his first job and falling in love with his girlfriend. Living in the outskirts of a southern city, he didn't think the zombie activity so common in the major cities would hit so close to home. But it was becoming clear that the mysterious infection reanimating the deceased was a growing epidemic across the country. The question was, would he stay alive or become the undead?
In this one-of-kind approach to teaching about sin, grace, and salvation, The Christian Zombie Killers Handbook tracks the fictional life of Ben Forman and offers solid Bible teaching to help readers understand the gravity and consequences of life without God, of life as a zombie. Ephesians 2:4-5 says, "But because of his great love for us, God, who is rich in mercy, made us alive with Christ even when we were dead in our transgressions--it is by grace you have been saved." Without the salvation Jesus offers, we are all as good as dead. But as this book teaches in a winsome, cutting-edge, culturally relevant style, anyone can kill the zombie inside, escape the clutches of the undead, and come alive by the supernatural power of God's salvation.
Zombie Killers Handbook Website

Wonderfully Wicked Read-A-Thon!

2011-10-21T15:05:00.000-07:00

Between ZomBcom this weekend I will be catching up on my reading and participating in the Wonderfully Wicked Read-A-Thon. Below is the sign up info. Yep, there is still time, so why not jump in and join the fun?

Sign up information:

Whether you can join us one, two or three days of the event, you are very welcome to sign up! It’s all up to you when, what and how much you read.
How do you sign up? Just fill out the linky at WONDERFULLY WICKED where you can find updates! Blog, Twitter, Goodreads or Facebook profile/pages
Are you a late arrival? The linky will be open until midnight Saturday, October 22 for those of you who still want to join in on the fun.

If you're on Twitter, use the hashtag #WWReadathon

The book I'm currently reading

HARBOR

Author John Ajvide Lindqvist

DEAD SKY MORNING: Experiment in Terror (Book 3) Review

2011-10-13T07:07:00.000-07:00

DEAD SKY MORNING
Author Karina Halle
With the Experiment in Terror show finding some success, amateur ghost hunters Perry Palomino and Dex Foray embark on their most terrifying investigation yet. A tiny, fog-shrouded island in the rough strait between British Columbia and Washington State has held a dark secret for decades: It was a former leper colony where over forty souls were left to rot, die and bury each other. Now a functioning campground, Perry and Dex spend an isolated weekend there to investigate potential hauntings but as the duo quickly find out, there is more to fear on D’Arcy Island than just ghosts. The island quickly pits partner against partner, spiraling the pair into madness that serves to destroy their sanity, their relationship and their very lives.

Review: It's no secret that I'm quickly becoming an enthusiastic fan girl of both Halle's Experiment in Terror series and of her, the amazing woman writer. I devoured the first two books in the series and couldn't wait to get my hands on number three! It does not disappoint! Although, Dead Sky Morning includes another paranormal investigation adventure with main characters, Perry Palomino and Dex Foray, it veers slightly away from the ghostly and delves into the inner hauntings of the characters. The personal closeness is not lost on the reader and is delivered with a raw, natural awkwardness that mimics real life. Halle's descriptions reveal the vulnerability of relationships along with the flawed imperfections and magnetic complications that come from attraction, experience, emotion and rationality. Dead Sky Morning thematically focuses on morality, and does so through use of setting, history and present day social culture. The isolation is gripping and works to push the climax. By far, the most terrifying of the three books because of the emotional intensity. Of course, I don't want to downplay the horror and paranormal elements in the story. Oh, they are there and Halle weaves a visual that will put the reader right on the island--chilled, wet, muddy and feeling like eyes are watching from everywhere. You'll hear the cracking of coffins against the rocks. One minute they will be there and the next, they're gone and just like Perry, you'll wonder if you're imagining the entire ordeal. It's an experiment worth trying and I highly recommend all three books. Although, you don't necessarily have to start with Darkhouse (book #1), because each story is a complete spookfest, I'd consider doing so to achieve and understand the complexity and relationship of the main characters. This is a deep, dark horror that deserves high marks from the beginning. I must confess, this fan is ecstatic about the promise of book 4--note: teaser at the end of book three! I'll be waiting....

Book 1 and Book 2 in the Experiment in Terror Series

Click to read my reviews of DARKHOUSE and RED FOX

KARINA HALLE: From the day she came screaming into this world, in Vancouver, BC, Karina Halle always stood out from the crowd. Born with club feet, she spent the first six years of her life in casts on both legs. Though her disability prevented her from becoming a prima ballerina, it did allow her imagination to flow freely as she created her own little worlds where nothing was impossible (unfortunately, those worlds tended to be on the macabre side - some things don't change). That same curiosity piloted her through numerous travels, a bachelor's degree in journalism, various certificates in film and writing, a successful blog, her current work as a rock music journalist and, of course, her devotion to the Experiment in Terror series. Karina currently resides in Vancouver's West End and can often be found with a bottle of wine, listening to her music a bit too loudly.

MONARCH: Suspense Thriller Book Review & Giveaway

2011-10-07T09:59:00.000-07:00

MONARCH
Author Michelle Davidson Argyle

Nick's life as a CIA spy should be fulfilling, but it has only given him unhappiness, a wife who committed suicide, and two daughters who resent everything he has become. Now, stuck in the Amazon on the last mission of his career, he must track down Matheus Ferreira, a drug lord and terrorist the United States has tried to bring down for years. If he succeeds, he'll have the chance to start his life over again. Just when he's on the brink of catching Ferreira, he's framed for a murder that turns his world upside down. His only chance of survival lies in West Virginia, where Lilian Love, a woman from his past, owns the secluded Monarch Inn. He's safe, but not for long.

Review: Monarch is a tale about two families thrown together by history and current circumstance. Both sides evolve and in the end, metamorphosis into something new. Although designed around a suspense/thriller premise, this story lingers more on the emotional, sentimental aspects of relationships, family, divorce and career. The story does not belong to a main character, but rather is shared equally by several and by doing so, a distinct voice speaks for all. This approach works in the overall telling of the story, but doesn't lend to give depth and personality to individual characters. Reactions to events were similar as far as emotional response, which left me wondering if this were a collective consciousness or wishful thinking driving the plot toward a happier ending. Because of this, some interactions did not seem genuine or natural. If you are looking for a softer side of suspense with a dash of chick lit sentimentality, you'll enjoy Monarch.

As a promotional bonus, I'm giving away my Advanced Reader Copy of Monarch, generously provided by Rhemalda Publishing. Want to give it a read? Simply, enter below to win.

* US Only

* ARC paperback

* Open entry Oct. 7- 9

*Extra bonus +2 for tweeting about review/giveaway

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Frightful Fall Read-A-Thon

2011-10-02T23:05:00.000-07:00

WHAT'S BREWING ON MY BOOK LIST

MONARCH
Author Michelle Davidson Argyle
FINISHED
Nick's life as a CIA spy should be fulfilling, but it has only given him unhappiness, a wife who committed suicide, and two daughters who resent everything he has become. Now, stuck in the Amazon on the last mission of his career, he must track down Matheus Ferreira, a drug lord and terrorist the United States has tried to bring down for years. If he succeeds, he'll have the chance to start his life over again. Just when he's on the brink of catching Ferreira, he's framed for a murder that turns his world upside down. His only chance of survival lies in West Virginia, where Lilian Love, a woman from his past, owns the secluded Monarch Inn. He's safe, but not for long.

I will be posting a review and hosting a giveaway Oct. 7!

***GIVEAWAY***

ARC PAPERBACK COPY OF MONARCH

US ONLY

OCT. 7-9

DEAD SKY MORNING
Author Karina Halle

With the Experiment in Terror show finding some success, amateur ghost hunters Perry Palomino and Dex Foray embark on their most terrifying investigation yet. A tiny, fog-shrouded island in the rough strait between British Columbia and Washington State has held a dark secret for decades: It was a former leper colony where over forty souls were left to rot, die and bury each other. Now a functioning campground, Perry and Dex spend an isolated weekend there to investigate potential hauntings but as the duo quickly find out, there is more to fear on D’Arcy Island than just ghosts. The island quickly pits partner against partner, spiraling the pair into madness that serves to destroy their sanity, their relationship and their very lives.

I'm eager to get to book #3 in Experiment in Terror series! I love this author and neighbor to my north!

HARBOR
Author John Ajvide Lindqvist
*Amazon Vine Review

From the author of the international and New York Times bestseller Let the Right One In (Let Me In) comes this stunning and terrifying book which begins when a man's six-year-old daughter vanishes.One ordinary winter afternoon on a snowy island, Anders and Cecilia take their six-year-old daughter Maja across the ice to visit the lighthouse in the middle of the frozen channel. While the couple explore the lighthouse, Maja disappears -- either into thin air or under thin ice -- leaving not even a footprint in the snow. Two years later, alone and more or less permanently drunk, Anders returns to the island to regroup. He slowly realises that people are not telling him all they know; even his own mother, it seems, is keeping secrets. What is happening in Domaro, and what power does the sea have over the town's inhabitants?

MINI-CHALLENGE SECTION

Must Read Faster

Look to the left...the first item that you see is your only weapon during the Zombie Apocalypse (Don't cheat and try to find something cool! If the first thing you see are socks then that's what you got!)

I am now armed with approximately 250 ml of purified drinking water securely sealed in a screw top Eco-Fina bottle that uses 50% less plastic. I'm sure I'll find comfort in the fact that I personally had a hand in saving 75 million pounds of plastic from polluting the Earth when my brains are being eaten by hordes of zombies.

Thematically, this is perfect. I can look at this Zombie Apocalyspe as the "Aquafina bottle is half full or half empty." Damn, if this were a vampire invasion I could bless it, making it holy water.

2011-09-30T01:31:00.000-07:00

The Night Circus
Author Erin Morgenstern

"Opens at Nightfall; Closes at Dawn." The Le Cirque des Rêves is a circus unlike any other, just as this magical debut novel is equally unique. At the center of The Night Circus spectacle are two specially gifted young magicians, Celia and Marco, pitted against each other in professional competition, drawn towards one another in love. Erin Morgenstern's literary fantasy has already drawn raves for its captivating evocativeness: "A world of almost unbearable beauty.... A love story on a grand scale: it creates, it destroys, it ultimately transcends."

Review: Morgenstern has created a menagerie of enchantmentembodied in an establishment of luxury and curiosity where indulgence isordinary. The Night Circus is a mysterious anomaly, fragile and captivating. Itlinks fantasy with reality, while also breaking the boundaries of possibility.After all, this is what we want magic to become, an irrational escape from amundane existence. The circus, or concrete vehicle used to convey theme isnothing new and has been utilized by writers for years. This is mostly due tothe richness of imagery a circus provides. It is universal and offers a setting that takes littleeffort to construct. The bones of the circus can branch in several directions,spanning mystery, horror, humor and fantasy. Readers drawn to imagery will bepulled into this alternative world. Where I found The Night Circuslacking, was in plot pacing. The competition trudges, little thrilloccurs, and the chemistry between Celia and Marco is stagnant. Parts ofthe story dragged, which was disappointing because the opportunity for tensionwas very possible. Sadly, The Night Circus falls short on the grand scale love story claimas well. If you are looking for exciting twists and turns, you're not likely tofind it here. Pretty, but predictable.

2011-09-21T09:59:00.000-07:00

As anticipated, September has been an exceptionally busy month (personally) for me. I have received numerous books for review and I can't wait to dig in, but my reading schedule has been compromised by other commitments, which I expected. I have not forgotten the great works stacked on my shelves, nightstand and jamming up the reading queue. I shall conquer the majority during the month of October - so be ready for some genius reviews and lots of events. If you haven't already, check out the events listed (<--- left) - they are open to everyone to join in i.e. read-a-thons, giveaways, hops ect.

Every You, Every Me

2011-09-04T08:19:00.000-07:00

Every You, Every Me
Author David Levithan
Release Date September 13, 2011

In this high school-set psychological tale, a tormented teen named Evan starts to discover a series of unnerving photographs—some of which feature him. Someone is stalking him . . . messing with him . . . threatening him. Worse, ever since his best friend Ariel has been gone, he's been unable to sleep, spending night after night torturing himself for his role in her absence. And as crazy as it sounds, Evan's starting to believe it's Ariel that's behind all of this, punishing him. But the more Evan starts to unravel the mystery, the more his paranoia and insomnia amplify, and the more he starts to unravel himself.

Review: Every You, Every Me is an artistic endeavor that falls short. The idea of basing a story on random photos is intriguing and I was rooting for it to be an inspiring hit, but sadly I did not care very much for this work by David Levithan. Although I'm a fan of previous stories by the author, Every You, Every Me didn't provide the level of intrigue or mystery the synopsis promises. At no point did I truly believe Ariel was behind the scheme and although this had depth potential, the plot wavered along the surface. The voice of Evan was feminine sounding in the beginning, so much so, that I had to recheck if the narrator was male or female. I was not convinced I was in the mind of a male teen. After I put that aside, I tried to focus on the photos and was equally put off. Nothing seemed to gel, especially Ariel's dress in contrast to Dana, Alex and Evans. It was strangely out of place and not in a that's so retro sort of way. The strike-through in the text is distracting. Some readers may find it interesting, but I became quickly annoyed, especially in long passages that included crossed out words. Lastly, the battle of BFF's between Dana and Evan was bizarre to say the least. It was difficult to believe that neither the boyfriend or Evan knew anything about this 'secret' friendship -- even though they all attended the same school. The whole tale was a tad inconceivable and I simply didn't care for it. The media intention was commendable and deserved the attempt, but was not achieved. A quick read that can easily be finished in a day since many of the 240+ pages have photos or merely 1 to few sentences.

*ARC provided by Knopf courtesy of Amazon Vine Review

Labor Day Weekend Read-A-Thon

2011-09-03T01:48:00.000-07:00

READ-A-THON hosted by Katie's Book Blog!

It's A Labor Day Weekend of Book Love

Since I epically failed at my last read-a-thon (due to circumstances beyond my control) I am going to redeem myself this weekend. Thanks to Katie from Katie's Book Blog for hosting a wonderful read-a-thon over the holiday weekend, I might get a few books checked off my to-be-read list. I'm kicking the event off with a new review post of Every You, Every Me by David Levithan. Yay me for making progress!

Here are some of the books I hope to read. I may add or subtract depending on my mood. Yes, my reading mood has been a bit fickle lately and I need to choose wisely so I can remain objective and more importantly, entertained.

All three books are from Amazon Vine for review

Domestic Violets: Has Dude Lit Made a Debut?

2011-08-24T11:16:00.000-07:00

Domestic Violets
Author Matthew Norman

Tom Violet always thought that by the time he turned thirty-five, he’d have everything going for him. Fame. Fortune. A beautiful wife. A satisfying career as a successful novelist. A happy dog to greet him at the end of the day. The reality, though, is far different. He’s got a wife, but their problems are bigger than he can even imagine. And he’s written a novel, but the manuscript he’s slaved over for years is currently hidden in his desk drawer while his father, an actual famous writer, just won the Pulitzer Prize for Fiction. His career, such that it is, involves mind-numbing corporate buzzwords, his pretentious archnemesis Gregory, and a hopeless, completely inappropriate crush on his favorite coworker. Oh . . . and his dog, according to the vet, is suffering from acute anxiety. Tom’s life is crushing his soul, but he’s decided to do something about it.

Gems: Contemporary novels depicting the tribulations of women are often referred to as 'Chick Lit.' If there is an opposite, I believe Domestic Violets by Matthew Norman has introduced an authentic 'Dude Lit' novel into the fictional world. This self-depreciating tale explores life's pit falls with a humorous edge and provides relatable circumstances that are complicated, but not entirely isolated because many adults face similar situations at some point in the work place, marriage and in familiar relationships. The male perspective is refreshing and I image it will be well-received by both women and men giving Dude Lit an advantage over Chick lit (read primarily by females).

Flaws: The story-line is predictable. Often, it is obvious where things are going and will end just as expected or anticipated. No surprises here. Men get a freer pass, a bit self-righteous in places, and the female characters are left to burden fault mixed with guilt due to the omission of truth and full disclosure. A plot twist seems opportunistic and given the father's ego, which is addressed the entire novel, I can't reconcile that he'd accept the offer presented by Tommy Violet. I understand why the author took this route, but I personally didn't like it. It was a convenient tie up of a loose end and an easy revelation. It was the path of least resistant and will give readers the over-all impression of a happy ending. The everyone wins, sort of, approach.

*ARC provided by Harper Perennial courtesy of NetGalley eBook

Bout of Books Read-A-Thon

2011-08-20T11:42:00.000-07:00

To join in, click on starting line FORM

Follow updates and tweet using hashtag #boutofbooks

My read-a-thon mission: To buckle down and read. Half way through the read-a-thon I will be taking the show on the road and updating as I travel. This will either turn out to be a productive idea or a total disaster. Even though I'm traveling, I will actually have a lot of sitting and reading time -- which is the idea, right? That is, if I don't get sidetracked by .....what's that? A bird?....Oh, people watching...

My most urgent TO-BE-READ (TBR): I will need more than a week to get through this pile, but I thought I'd stack 'em up and see how it goes. *Note: The books are not listed in any particular order. Think of it like a song shuffle on an ipod -- but this is my book shuffle.

How much I plan to read: As much as possible. I keep track of my page reading through 'currently-reading' at Goodreads. I don't track hours because it's too difficult - so I just do it by pages and books.

MONDAY 8/22
Number of pages I've read today: 109
Number of books I’ve read today: n/a
Today #insixwords: A slow start, but not bad.

TUESDAY 8/23
Number of pages I've read today: 60
Number of books I’ve read today: 1
Today #insixwords: Life got in the way today

WEDNESDAY 8/24
Number of pages I've read today: 57
Number of books I’ve read today: n/a
Today #insixwords: #epicfail at reading due to chores

THURSDAY 8/25
Then everything went terribly wrong with my travel/read plans. Ugh! Not the sit and read relaxing break I thought I'd get. Boo.

To follow my progress on Twitter- @bitsyblingbooks #boutofbooks

Submitting eBooks for Review

2011-08-19T14:17:00.000-07:00

There's no denying ebooks are evolving and lets face it, less expensive when it comes to mailing ARC's or books for review. Not all reviewers accept ebook versions, but I believe many are adjusting to the times and see the advantage to authors, publishers and reviewers alike. I am one of those reviewers who gladly accepts ebooks for review. It's not that I don't prefer printed paperbacks, because I do! I love getting the packages in the mail, flipping through the pages, and filling my shelves with colorful spines. However, with the cost of printing and shipping, this is not a budget-friendly option for debut authors or independents. Even with the 'media mail' option, the cost can really add up. Also, ebooks are easier to send internationally -- in minutes as a matter of fact. How amazing is that!? With all this said, I'd like to address some submission issues that have continually cropped up with ebooks. Are they convenient? Oh yes, if done properly!

PDF's are great and should be thought of as the template -- not the final product. Converting to PDF is typically necessary for printing, but also for ebook formatting. However, it should not be thought of as an ebook or necessarily interchangeable. There are many devices out there that book reviewers use. It's unwise to assume they are willing to sit in front of a computer screen for 18 hours pushing the page down arrow to read your PDF because it saves you money.

I do not read on my computer, period. It's uncomfortable and frankly, you want the reviewer to be in the best mood possible when viewing your creative work. Now, if the device the book reviewer is using happily accepts PDF's with no problem, then by all means, send it -- but golden rule ASK! I clearly note in my review policy and when emailing that I use a Kindle ereader for ebook reviews. That means, I want any submissions sent compatible with Kindle (.mobi) or given the option to download from a site that provides most formats i.e. Smashwords.

If you don't know what this is, I suggest taking the time to learn because I don't foresee the mode of information sharing reverting any time soon. It would be fantastic if every ereader would do the conversion or better yet, if there were a universal format -- but that is not the case, not yet anyways. If you've gotten this far and you don't know what I'm talking about then likely you're not ready or shouldn't be submitting electronic books to anyone. I suggest taking a step back and learning about ereader devices and familiarize yourself with the basics.

I can't tell you how many times I've kindly responded to an author's review request (who noted they'd like to provide an ebook) that I'll accept for review, but to remember I use a Kindle and would appreciate .mobi or a way to download in compatible format. Several times I've received a response that the author is not tech savvy and doesn't really know what that is (as if this is my problem) and they send a PDF because that is 'electronic,' right? In the past, I've downloaded the PDF, converted and then sent it to my Kindle. Basically, I did more work for a review than I should. I will no longer be doing this. All non-converted or non-compatible PDF's for Kindle will be rejected. It's basic, fairly simple, clearly stated and really all I ask.

Although, the author is making a truthful confession by revealing their lack of technical know-how and hopes I'm sympathetic, it's sending a negative message to (me) the book reviewer.

It exposes lack of knowledge with the quickly evolving industry of ebooks. I knew nothing about ereaders, coding, html, formatting, coversions ect. when I was ready to publish my first book and began blogging. However, I learned and learned quickly. I spent hours reading and teaching myself. Am I an expert? No, not by a long shot -- but I like to think I understand the basics which is vital. I desperately try to keep up, which can be a difficult endeavor. We all make mistakes.
It's disregarding. Ignorance does not get a free pass. Fine, you don't have computer skills and perhaps, you don't want to learn -- then, as an author, publisher ect. your means are limited to mailing paperbacks. Don't take the attitude that a word document or PDF is good enough, deal with it ,because I don't have time to figure out all this muckity muck.
Lastly, if you agree to send a print copy -- most book reviewers assume this actually means a 'book.' 300 pages of 8x11 loose pages is not ideal. I don't have the patience or time to keep it all straight. It's cumbersome, messy and disorganized. Unless the reviewer has specifically agreed to read a manuscript in rough form, don't send 'print' in any other form than a binded book.

There are many resources providing guides, free service, software, free conversions and basic information concerning ebooks. Here are just a few that I've used:

Smashwords, Smashwords Style Guide - Hardly anyone wants to face the task of formatting for Smashwords and following the dreaded guide, but the effort is worth it in the end and honestly, you'll learn a lot without having to spend a cent. Also allows authors to create a coupon code with expiration. Perfect to send to book reviewers and again, at no cost to either party.
Calibre - converts those lovely PDF's into various formats for several ereader devices i.e. .mobi, epub for free.

New Release: Machine Man by Max Barry

2011-08-17T00:00:00.000-07:00

Machine Man

Author Max Barry

Scientist Charles Neumann loses a leg in an industrial accident. It's not a tragedy. It's an opportunity. Charlie always thought his body could be better. He begins to explore a few ideas. To build parts. Better parts. Prosthetist Lola Shanks loves a good artificial limb. In Charlie, she sees a man on his way to becoming artificial everything. But others see a madman. Or a product. Or a weapon. A story for the age of pervasive technology, Machine Man is a gruesomely funny unraveling of one man's quest for ultimate self-improvement.

Review: Interestingly, this book was born on a blog and grew into a novel. An interactive achievement occurred when fan followers and the ever-accessible author, Max Barry, collaborated. What started as a rouse to get Barry off his butt and writing turned into a philosophical science fiction marvel that is both compelling and thought-provoking. The main character, Charlie, as part of Better Future cannot help but view human biology as flawed and with the aid of a freak accident perpetuated by the misplacement of his cell phone, he's given an opportunity to improve that, which is inadequate. The novel is a technology-heavy, sci-fi experiment with nerdy humor and a side of transformer-like vision. Machine Man asks are we greater than the sum of our parts? But, it doesn't stop there. Barry takes it to another level--transcending the physical body. By thinking outside the box, Charlie might just find himself stuck in one. There is no doubt this story will give a reader a lot to mull over and it won't entertain everyone. Hardcore techie sci-fi fans with a taste for philosophy will likely be pleased with this selection. Comparable style to Perdido Street Station by China Mieville.

*ARC provided by Amazon Vine Review courtsey of Vintage Contemporaries Original

More books by Max(x) Barry

Beast of Burden by Ray Banks

2011-08-11T01:33:00.000-07:00

Beast of Burden
Author Ray Banks
Release Date: August 11, 2011

In his short career as Manchester’s most indestructible private eye, Callum Innes has been run over by a car, beaten within an inch of his life, shot in the ear, left for dead on a desert roadside, and halfway blown up by a car bomb. Now, mourning the death of his addict brother, walking with a cane, and barely able to speak following a massive drug-related stroke, Cal is a wreck. Enter Manchester ganglord Morris Tiernan to make his life even worse. Tiernan’s ne’er-do-well son Mo has gone missing, and Cal Innes is the only person the distraught gangster trusts enough to conduct the search. There’s nobody Cal would like to find less, but you don’t say no to Uncle Morris. And it turns out that Innes is not the only one working the case — the corrupt and parasitic Detective Sergeant “Donkey” Donkin has a vested interest in the fate of the Tiernans, as well as a long-standing grudge against the intrepid private eye. In this fourth and final installment of the Cal Innes series, our hero gives up acting as a pawn in Manchester’s underworld disputes. He has his own burdens to bear and scores to settle — with the Tiernan family, with Sergeant Donkin, and with the darkness in his own past.

Review: If you're looking for a hard-boiled detective noir with roguish dialect, Beast of Burden by Ray Banks is a great choice. It's got chain-smoking, cuss-using offenders and questionable coppers tripping over each other in an effort to find out who killed a king pin's son. Some try harder than others, but all have their reasons for injecting themselves into the investigation. The characters are gritty, exposed and although they are tough guys, all are completely vulnerable at varying points in the story which gives this noir a real-life feeling that will appeal to the common man or woman. What I found most impressive about the story was Banks use of dialect. The authentic speech and dialogue were unabated and uncensored. Banks has crafted a perfect example of how speech is specific to area. Nothing is proper about it, but that is not to say the author doesn't know the difference. In fact, he is acutely aware and knows just how to utilize conversation to deepen characters, strengthen plot and intensity. By doing so, it makes for more than just a hard-boiled noir, expanding it into a literary critique of how dialogue expresses class, stereotypes, setting, economic gap and cultural structure. Thematically, questions loyalty, revenge, family and justice. Heavy on the language and violence, but little sexual content.
*ARC provided by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt courtesy of Amazon Vine

Other book by Ray Banks: