Happily Never After

Happily Never After

By Missy Fleming

Published on Feb 8th, 2013
Published by Fire and Ice

There's no such thing as happy endings. Savannah, Georgia is rumored to be the most haunted place in America. Quinn Roberts knows it is. She's felt the presence of spirits her entire life, investigating and photographing them with her best friend. Only none of those encounters ever turned violent, until now. The menacing darkness feeding off her stepmother has promised she won't live to see her eighteenth birthday. After a chance meeting Quinn reluctantly allows actor Jason Preston into her life, which has complications of its own. She's not used to letting people get close. Falling for him while fighting for her life, and her family's legacy, only complicates things more. Jason shows her exactly what she stands to lose, especially when she's being attacked by the mysterious entity. Each attack is more violent and terrifying than the last. With Jason's help, she dives into the Roberts' family history, searching for a link between a woman who went missing a hundred and fifty years ago and what's happening now. What they find is a brutal murder and that the ghost doesn't just want to hurt Quinn, it wants revenge. It wants her life.

Um!!!!  This book was surprisingly good!  Now there was no reason to suspect it would be bad, per say, but it is not often that I find a YA novel that is actually just plainly a good read.  I mean, you read the summary above, and it sounds sort of like another one of those books.  You know the type.  Paranormal.  Teens.  Angst.  The title (sorry Ms. Fleming!) is not super encouraging either.  Actually, I am not sure it fits the book at all!  Granted, I do not have a better suggestion, but I would have thought that one through a bit more.  So anyway, you take that all in and you figure it is just going to be another bit of brain candy - an easy fun read that you zip through and forget the instant you swallow.  

Not so!

I really enjoyed this book.  Yes, you will get through it pretty quickly, but it lingers.  The ending is so Whoa! that I am pretty desperate to read the next installment.  I was blindsided what happened and I am definitely interested in finding out where it goes next.  The last chapter was a surprise and I was left wanting more (in a good way!).

If you have read any of my previous reviews, you know I am not usually all sunshine and rainbows about a book, and while I think this one is pretty awesome, there were a few hiccups.

The main character, Quinn, is kind-of goth.  I know the author put her into Savannah, land of the Southern Belles, to give additional credence to the fact that she is different.  However, it is very hard to mentally picture her in that situation.  You do not imagine someone with a southern accent to be dressed like that.  Perhaps it is because one of my good friends is from Georgia and regularly visits Savannah, and she is so far from goth it is hilarious to picture her that way.  I also do not imagine someone like that having an innate love for her beautiful old plantation home, simply due to the style differences.  I guess I feel like it was not necessary to make her and her best friend goth.  They were different enough already.

The other thing that I sort-of dislike about the story is how obviously it borrows from the classic tale of  Cinderella.  The author does have Quinn express how much her life is laughably like Cinderella, with an evil stepmother and two evil stepsisters, so I suppose that is okay!  At least we are all in on the joke, including the characters.  :)

Other than those things, I really did like the book quite a bit and I would definitely recommend it.  Though there is some violence (the ghost entity attacks Quinn and tries to kill her multiple times), I think this would be a fun read for 9th grade and up, and probably a mature 7th or 8th grader could handle it.  There is some romance happening, but nothing to blush over.  I feel like this story could easily engage a high schooler and anyone who enjoys a fun paranormal story.  

Two thumbs up!

~Ericka 

p.s. Anyone want to spring for a trip to Savannah?  That place sounds fantastic!

The Ward

The Ward

By Jordana Frankel

Published on April 30
Published by Katherine Tegen Books
Source: Publisher

Sixteen-year-old Ren is a daredevil mobile racer who will risk everything to survive in the Ward, what remains of a water-logged Manhattan. To save her sister, who is suffering from a deadly illness thought to be caused by years of pollution, Ren accepts a secret mission from the government: to search for a freshwater source in the Ward, with the hope of it leading to a cure.

However, she never expects that her search will lead to dangerous encounters with a passionate young scientist; a web of deceit and lies; and an earth-shattering mystery that’s lurking deep beneath the water’s rippling surface.

 Unexpected.  That is what I would consider this book.  I was a bit leery going into this book.  I wasn't sure what to think of the first 30 pages - it wasn't at all what I expected and I was doubtful that I would enjoy the book.  Though Ren is not the most likeable character (she is a bit rough around the edges), I found myself involved in her life and wanting things to turn out well for her.

The Ward is the kind of story where the character has one trial after another and nothing seems to go write and it builds and builds into a climactic ending.  That is exactly how this story was.  The romance in this book wasn't sudden- it was slow building and not exactly... clear.  I don't want to give too much away, but there are a lot of complications in this romance.  It frustrated me a little, but mostly made me want the second book.

I really don't know what to share about this book, there are so many twists and turns, I feel like sharing would spoil the book, and I don't want to do that.  This was an action filled book and one that I really did enjoy.  Dystopian fans will enjoy this fresh storyline, and eager for the second book to fill the lack of story building in this first book.

Stealing Harper : Will the real Chase Grayson please stand up?

Welcome to The Best Books Ever! We have two treats for our readers today! First an exclusive excerpt:

Stealing Harper

By Molly McAdams

Published on June 4th 2013
Published by William Morrow

Derek was wiping tears from his eyes, “Oh my God! Princess, is she serious?”

I growled again. That was my name for her.

She swallowed roughly and disentangled herself from Bree before heading straight toward me. My heart started pounding until I realized she hadn’t seen me yet and I was standing in the way of the front door.

Jolting back slightly when she realized I was in her way, her eyes looked everywhere but at me, “Please. Move.”

And let her leave? Hell no. I grabbed her shoulders and turned her around at the same time I started walking us toward my room.

“Don't touch me!”

“Just trust me.” I growled and walked her through the living room where everyone was still laughing.

“Looks like Chase is gonna take care of that problem for you, Princess!” Brad yelled and I’ve never wanted to punch my friend more than I did then. I paused and cursed, but knew I’d rather take care of her right then, than let all of them know how much they were pissing me off.

I unlocked my door and pushed her in; as soon as the light was on she gasped and started bucking against me. I held her by pushing her elbows into her side so her jerking arms couldn’t hit me.

“No! Get off me!”

“Not until you stop trying to hit me!”

Instantly, Harper stopped moving but her body was practically vibrating with tension. I waited almost a minute before releasing her and feigning indifference.

We are lucky enough to host New Adult author Molly McAdams for a second excerpt as well as a VERY special video! Check out"Will the Real Chase Grayson Please Stand Up?" below:

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It Happened at the Fair Promo and Giveaway

It Happened at the Fair

By Deanne Gist

Published on April 9, 2013
Published by Bethany House
Source: Net Galley

A transporting historical novel about a promising young inventor, his struggle with loss, and the attractive teacher who changes his life, all set against the razzle-dazzle of the 1893 Chicago World’s Fair.

Gambling everything, including the family farm, Cullen McNamara travels to the 1893 Chicago World's Fair with his most recent invention. But the noise in the Fair’s Machinery Palace makes it impossible to communicate with potential buyers. In an act of desperation, he hires Della Wentworth, a teacher of the deaf, to tutor him in the art of lip-reading.


The young teacher is reluctant to participate, and Cullen has trouble keeping his mind on his lessons while intently watching her lips. Like the newly invented Ferris Wheel, he is caught in a whirl between his girl back home, his dreams as an inventor, and his unexpected attraction to his new tutor. Can he keep his feet on the ground, or will he be carried away?

Deeanne Gist is celebrating the release of It Happened at the Fair with an iPad Mini Giveaway and a Live Author Chat Webcast event {5/22}!

  One "fair" winner will receive:

• An iPad Mini
• A $25 iTunes gift card

Enter today by clicking one of the icons below. But hurry, the giveaway ends on May 21st. Winner will be announced at the "It Happened at the Fair" Live Webcast Event on May 22nd. Connect with Deeanne for an evening of book chat, trivia, laughter, and more! Deeanne will also be taking questions from the audience and giving away books and fun gift certificates throughout the evening.

So grab your copy of It Happened at the Fair and join Deeanne and friends on the evening of May 22nd for a chance to connect and make some new friends. (If you haven't read the book, don't let that stop you from coming!)

Don't miss a moment of the fun; RSVP today. Tell your friends via FACEBOOK or TWITTER and increase your chances of winning. Hope to see you on the 22nd!

Goddess

Goddess

By Josephine Angelini

Published on May 23, 2013
Published by Harper Teen
Source: Anna from Literary Exploration

After accidentally unleashing the gods from their captivity on Olympus, Helen must find a way to re-imprison them without starting a devastating war. But the gods are angry, and their thirst for blood already has a body count.

To make matters worse, the Oracle reveals that a diabolical Tyrant is lurking among them, which drives a wedge between the once-solid group of friends. As the gods use the Scions against one another, Lucas’s life hangs in the balance. Still unsure whether she loves him or Orion, Helen is forced to make a terrifying decision, for war is coming to her shores.

In Josephine Angelini’s compelling conclusion to the masterfully woven Starcrossed trilogy, a goddess must rise above it all to change a destiny that’s been written in the stars. With worlds built just as fast as they crumble, love and war collide in an all-out battle that will leave no question unanswered and no heart untouched.

I finally got to read this book!  I have been waiting forever for Goddess and I am so happy it is finally here!  The Starcrossed series is one of my favorite reads- I love the soapy drama, the action, and most of all the Greek Mythology.  This book did not disappoint.

I think what I love most about this book is how time weaves together to make a complete story- we are shown the complete story of Helen of Troy and some of the lifetimes she has lived through. I found all of the memories fascinating.  I loved seeing how each character in present day was a recreation of the original characters of the Greek tragedy.

The action in this book is pretty much non-stop. The fighting, the super powers, it is all relentless.  I often hear people talk about action movies with the phrase "pulse-pounding action". Pulse pounding action fits this story completely.  The author is at her best when she writes fighting scenes. They are written so well I have no trouble imagining each fight and picturing each character in detail. 

Did this story go the way I expected it to? No.  Are some parts of the storyline convenient? Yes.  Do I care? Heck no.  I am completely sold on these characters, the story, and what the author had in mind. I was broken by the characters (spoiler alert) that died in this book and I found myself absolutely invested in all of their lives. 

Goddess will be a satisfying ending for all of the fans of the Starcrossed series.  I am so sad to see this series end, but I absolutely can't wait to see what this author has next!

Wednesdays in the Tower Tour

Wednesdays in the Tower

By Jessica Day George

Published on May 7th 2013
Published by Bloomsbury Children's
Source: Publisher for review

A castle that is constantly rearranging itself, and a young royal family sworn to protect it... Celie, Rolf, and their beloved Castle Glower are back in this exciting sequel.

Strange things are afoot in Castle Glower: new rooms, corridors, and even stables keep arriving, even when they aren't needed. Celie's brother Bran, the new Royal Wizard, has his hands full cataloguing an entire storeroom full of exotic and highly dangerous weapons, while Celie has her hands full . . . raising the creature that hatches from a giant egg she finds! Will they be able to find out what's making the Castle behave this way in time?

I am a big fan of Jessica Day George.  Her young adult fairy tale and myth retellings have been some of my favorite books to read.  I was a bit skeptical at first when I learned that she was writing a Middle Grade novel.  I find that middle grade books can either be wonderful... or painful.  I am so happy to say that the author has done a fabulous job with this series!

The world building in these books is spectacular.  The idea that on each Tuesday, a castle changes itself (rooms appear, disappear, or change places). I think this is a truly inventive idea and the author executes it perfectly.  The flow of her writing style translates well into a novel that would be enjoyed by readers of any age.  The vocabulary isn't "dumbed down" or over simplified.  Young readers will enjoy the fantasy elements and fun storyline and older readers will enjoy the detail and imagination poured into the story.

Although the two books have not much in common story-wise, I honestly feel that the author has captured some of the Harry Potter magic in this book.  It is a rare book that I find so interesting that I can't possibly put it down or that I immediately want to share it with other readers, but this book fits that description perfectly.  Wednesdays in the Tower is an fun and clever sequel to a wildly imaginative series.  If you have readers in your life- this book needs to be in their hands!

Call of the Vampire

Call of the Vampire

By Gayla Twist

Published on March 29th, 2013
Published by CreateSpace

Aurora Keys has dreamed of the Vanderlind Castle ever since she was a little girl. But the fiercely private Vanderlinds keep the massive structure strictly off limits to visitors. Until one night, the wealthy family throws a party —- not just a small soiree, but a huge black-tie affair. No one from the town of Tiburon, Ohio, is invited —- not even the mayor. But Aurora’s best friend, Blossom, has a foolproof plan for the two of them to sneak in. At first, everything goes smoothly: the girls enter the castle undetected, and there is free champagne. But then the handsome Jessie Vanderlind sweeps Aurora into his arms, crushing her to his chest and whispering, “I knew you’d come back to me.” Aurora understands it is a case of mistaken identity, but she feels connected to him somehow. And the boy is so beautiful, she believes she would be happy if he never let her go. Once Jessie realizes he is mistaken, his smile quickly changes to a scowl. “You must leave,” he tells her in a low, urgent voice. “Immediately. Come! I’ll find a way to get you out.” Unbeknownst to Aurora and Blossom, they have snuck into the home of one of the most prestigious vampire families in the world, and it is doubtful the two young women will ever be allowed to leave. Aurora’s resemblance to Jessie Vanderlind’s lost love just may be the only thing keeping them alive.

This book went quickly!  Or I just read it fast.  Either way, I started it, and then it was suddenly, sadly, over!  Honestly, that is my biggest complaint about this book - it ended JUST as it was getting really interesting and engaging.  You authors and your cliffhangers!!!  Leaving me wanting more!!!

The premise here is fun: Aurora is mistaken for the former flame of an uber-important vampire.  As the story is revealed, we learn why Aurora is confused for this woman, and it hints at deeper things at work.  Really, the summary shown above encompasses about 20% of the story that is told in the book.  It is a good thing though, because once you get past that part, there is a lot more meat than just forsaken attraction.  At the same time, as soon as it gets really good, it just ends.  Gah.    Typically one book of a series will still have a complete story within it, and then add the cliffhanger to continue with a new aspect or addition to the story already told.  In a sense, the abruptness of the ending make this feel almost like a minibook or just one chapter of the full picture.  While it is good because I want to read more, it also left me feeling a bit empty.

I am afraid this will have to be one of my shorter reviews.  Because the story was just getting started when it ended, I feel like I do not have too much to say about it.  I definitely liked what I read and absolutely am interested in what happens next, but if you are looking for a complete story arc, you are not going to find it here.  I think the author has a lot more of this tale to tell, so I imagine we are going to see at least two more installments.   This is just the tip of the iceburg!

This book does not really have much violence in it, it more just hints that it could happen at any time.  There is certainly lusting, and alcohol abuse, but I would say it is completely appropriate for a high-schooler.  I would recommend it...  but maybe wait until at least one more piece comes out so that you can read them back to back.  

~Ericka

The Planet Thieves Tour: GIVEAWAY

The Planet Thieves

By Dan Krokos

Published on May 21st 2013
Published by Starscape

Two weeks ago, thirteen-year-old Mason Stark and seventeen of his fellow cadets from the Academy for Earth Space Command boarded the SS Egypt. The trip was supposed to be a short routine voyage to log their required spacetime for summer quarter.

But routine goes out the airlock when they’re attacked by the Tremist, an alien race who have been at war with humanity for the last sixty years.

With the captain and crew dead, injured, or taken prisoner, Mason and the cadets are all that’s left to warn the ESC. And soon they find out exactly why the Tremist chose this ship to attack: the Egypt is carrying a weapon that could change the war forever.

Now Mason will have to lead the cadets in a daring assault to take back the ship, rescue the survivors, and recover the weapon. Before there isn’t a war left to fight.

Sound interesting? Well, thanks to the publisher, here's your chance to win a copy! Enter below -- US only (or people who have an address in the US where they can have mail sent to).

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Exclusive Excerpt + Giveaway: Stealing Harper, by Molly McAdams!

Stealing Harper

By Molly McAdams

Published on June 4th 2013
Published by William Morrow

Chase Grayson has never been interested in having a relationship that lasts longer than it takes for him and his date to get dressed again. But then he stumbles into a gray-eyed girl whose innocence pours off her, and everything changes. From the minute Harper opens her mouth to let him know just how much he disgusts her, he's hooked.

But a princess deserves a Prince Charming who can make her dreams come true. Not a guy who can turn her life into a nightmare.

All good intentions go out the window when Harper starts to fall for the guy Chase has come to view as a brother. He wanted to protect her by keeping her away, but he can’t stand to see her with anyone else, and he’ll do anything to make her his. But when it comes down to Harper choosing between the two, will Chase have the strength to step back from the girl who has become his whole world if it means she’ll be happy?

Lines will be crossed. Friendships will be put to the test. And hearts will be shattered.

LIVE TO READ EXCLUSIVE EXCERPT

“You said I'm a jerk?” I laughed and walked over to my sister. “She's the one that just practically called me a dirty man-whore.”

“Don't be rude to my friends, Chase!” Bree punched my arm and I tried not to roll my eyes at how pathetic her punches were.

Princess turned quickly and went outside, and I tried to not let it show that I watched her leave. “Great roommate, Bree.” I scoffed and grabbed a bottle of water out of the fridge.

“She is, but she said you weren’t nice! So be nice, I told you, she’s pretty sheltered.”

I turned my back to Zach and Drew and leaned onto the island close to Bree, “Sheltered how?”

“She grew up with only her dad and she said he’s been in the army or navy or whatever for her whole life.” Bree took two more shots and I shook my head at her, at least she was staying here. “And get this! She’s never worn makeup or been to a mall!”

My face fell in mock-horror, “Never been to a mall, oh no.”

“Go be nice to her you big jerk!”

Not enough for you yet?  Want to read more?  Well, straight from Molly, here are some more excerpts to get you excited about Stealing Harper!

::FIVE BITS OF MY FAVROITE PARTS FROM STEALING HARPER::

1.  I squeezed my eyes shut and let my head fall from hers. “No. I don’t deserve you either. You need someone who will cherish you, protect you, and take care of you. Someone that realizes they'd never be able to find another you in the world, no matter how hard they looked.” I looked back into her soft gray eyes and continued to fight with myself on taking what I needed and giving her what she needed. Without thinking about it, I leaned in close until I could feel her breath against my lips; I would have given anything to kiss her.

2.  Clown’s kissing her Friday, she’s screwing my best friend on Saturday, and leaning in to kiss me today? She’s gonna make me feel like shit for the few girls she’d seen me with and tell me she’d just be another girl for me? Look in a fucking mirror, Princess. Because, obviously, I’m just one of many guys for you.

3.  Where else would I be? My whole world was crashing down, and I was trying to hold on to it for as long as possible. “Because you need me, and if this is my last hour with you, I’m not going to waste another second of it.”

4.  The door opened, and Jeff and I looked over to it, but Brian just sat there with a shit-eating grin. “Oh, by the way, Riss is coming to tell you off.”

“You’re serious, Brian? You called your wife to come yell at me?”

“Chachi!” Marissa snapped, and I groaned. “It has been a month. A month! You have two choices: grow a pair and ask her if she’s made up her mind yet or get over the bitch.”

“Marissa,” I growled in warning.

5.  “And why can’t we? You couldn’t stand to let me have one normal day with her. Have I done anything to you since she and I broke up?” He paused, but I didn’t respond. “No. I haven’t. You dealt with it by being an ass, so let me deal with this my way. And my way doesn’t include acting like you didn’t steal my girl from me.”

“I didn’t steal Harper!”

He opened the door and took a step outside, his shaking hand gripping the outer knob. When he looked back at me, his eyes were flat and lifeless. “You stole my entire world.”

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