Misty's Book Mess

TAHEREH MAFI; Shatter Me

2011-12-16T11:40:00.000+11:00

Author: Tahereh Mafi

Novel: Shatter Me

Publishers: Allen & Unwin

Release date: 2011

Juliette hasn't touched anyone in exactly 264 days.

The last time she did, it was an accident, but The Reestablishment locked her up for murder. No one knows why Juliette's touch is fatal. As long as she doesn't hurt anyone else, no one really cares. The world is too busy crumbling to pieces to pay attention to a 17-year-old girl. Diseases are destroying the population, food is hard to find, birds don't fly anymore, and the clouds are the wrong color.

The Reestablishment said their way was the only way to fix things, so they threw Juliette in a cell. Now so many people are dead that the survivors are whispering war-- and The Reestablishment has changed its mind. Maybe Juliette is more than a tortured soul stuffed into a poisonous body. Maybe she's exactly what they need right now.

Juliette has to make a choice: Be a weapon. Or be a warrior.

The concepts of this story is both original and not. Juliette's 'power' is a great idea, and I love how Mafi creates such strong tension between the characters, especially Juliette and her love interest Adam. However, the world in which they live has been seen before. It is not so very different from that of 'Matched', or even 'The Hunger Games' in which the society is controlled by a suppressive force. Luckily, Mafi's writing style and command of words outweigh the negativity of the unoriginal thoughts in a way that makes this book a wonderful read. I was sitting on the edge of my chair the entire time!

You can find TAHEREH MAFI on the web at both her own site and at goodreads.

NaNoWriMo Day 24

2011-11-24T15:10:00.000+11:00

It's day 24 and I haven't written a word for the last three days. I am so stuck! I've killed off my main character! And my novel is in first person! That was probably not the best move, now I come to think about the consequences. With no main character I have no narrator, and with narrator I have no novel. :(

I didn't mean to kill Cailean, it just happened. She was poisoned by a slow acting drug which I was planning to find a cure for, but she died before I could finish my quest.

Pathetic! I know.

I'm beginning to wonder if finishing my NaNoWriMo this year is worth the worry and effort. I just don't think my novel is good enough.

The Hunger Games movie trailer

2011-11-20T16:36:00.000+11:00

!!!I am seriously going to spend the whole movie in tears!!! Coming in March

Thank you for TAMORA PIERCE First Test

2011-11-14T08:13:00.000+11:00

This week Beth Revis is discussing the books she is most grateful for. Doing a post like this one is all you have to do to qualify for the 19-YA-Book Giveaway she had launched. Just tell people about a book you're thankful for, include a link to the contest and the graphic (just as I have done), and you're qualified. To see Beth's original post click here.

I'm most grateful for 'Protector of the small' by Tamora Pierce

In the medieval and fantastic realm of Tortall, Keladry of Mindelan (known as Kel) is the first girl to take advantage of the decree that permits females to train for knighthood. But Kel is not a girl to underestimate...

This was the first fantasy book I ever read. I still remember the day I found it tucked into a corner of my school library. I could hardly contain my excitement. I had never before realised that there were books in the world about really strong female characters training to be knights, or spies, or Queen's Guards! I didn't know there were wonderful worlds where animals could communicate with people and monsters lurked in the forests. Tamora Pierce's novels are better than any movie could ever be creating stories that can never be reproduced on the big screen.

To this day, almost ten years later, I am still a devoted Tamora fan, rushing out to buy her latest release!

NaNoWriMo Days 6—12

2011-11-12T19:05:00.000+11:00

Well today is the end of day 12 and guess what? I'm right on my word target! 20,000 words!

It's been a little bit of a struggle, like yesterday when I finished work at 8pm and all I wanted to do was sleep. But, luckily, I toughened up and managed to write some words before collapsing on my bed.

At the moment, the main problem with my novel is that I don't know where it is going. Every few days I have to come up with a new idea because I keep finding myself repeating words and slowing down while my characters once again contemplate the meaning of life. In order to combat this slowness, I have developed/borrowed a couple of gorilla tactics:
1) Add a new character. This is a great why to speed up a dying storyline. In my case I added an assassin who tried to kill my two MCs!
2) Add a subplot. This is a great way to add words, fill space and add more adventure. In my case, one of my MC has to travel through the forest for a night and a day looking for a lost object. The object is important although it's not crucial for the main storyline, it's more of a red-herring.
3) Add conflict. In real life not everyone gets along, even best friends fight, families disagree and sisters argue. Why should it be any different in your novel. In my case, my MC and her brother have an argument about his use of violence. She disagrees, he yells at her and she becomes scared of him. This tension underlines several other scenes until they finally resolve their differences. (... or do they?)

How about you guys? What gorilla tactics had you discovered/borrowed to liven up your writing?

NaNoWriMo Day 3, 4 and 5

2011-11-05T15:34:00.001+11:00

Well, everything is going according to plan. I have been typing away at my novel, eating up words. It is now 7,402 words long. A little under the parr but not too bad if I do say so myself. The NaNoWriMo stats say I have to write 1,600 words each day to reach my goal of 50,000 by 30th November but every day I get that little bit faster and write just a few more words than expected.

Today, day 5, was my first writer's group meeting. We met at the library of our local university and sat in a great typing circle. There wasn't a lot of talking, I think everyone was a little nervous, but there was a lot of writing with each of us trying to out type the others. I reached a nice 2,000 words in just under 2 and a half hours.

What about you guys. How long does it take you to reach the daily work target?

NANoWriMo Day 2

2011-11-02T22:35:00.000+11:00

It's that time of year again, NaNoWriMo time! National Novel Writing Month with the aim of completing 50,000 words by midnight 30th November. If you haven't registered but would like too click here for the official site.

Today is actually the 2nd day even though I thought it was the 1st, so I only started today and not yesterday. But even with that set back it was full steam ahead. I managed to pump out a good 1,700 words. Only a few more to go!

To keep myself encouraged I have decided to use this blog to record my 2011 NaNoWriMo experience. Through thick and thin, heartbreak and betrayal I will continue to update this blog as long as I am still participating.

And on that note, as I am about to graduate from uni I think it is a good idea to continue to focus on my two remaining essays. So I have decided any words I write for assessment, I will also be counting as part of my 50,000 word goal.

With that, I wish all the best to any other fellow NaNoWriMo out there and happy writing!

Teaser Tuesday

2011-10-26T08:41:00.000+11:00

I am reading *drum roll* Heir to Sevenwaters by Juliet Marillier. This is book four of the Sevenwaters series. And as always, her writing style is amazing. Juliet has a real way with words that brings her characters and her world to life right in front of my eyes.

"Clodagh!" yelled Cathal, sounding closer this time, but now I could not look, for other stones were coming, to left, to right, leaving me no choice at all but to take a middle path. (Page 208)

The image comes from Juliet's own website—a great insight into her writing methods, and other published novels.

AND if you would like to read my 2011 interview with Juliet click here. (The link will take you to another Misty's Mess blog page.)

EMILY BRONTE; Wuthering Heights

2011-10-11T12:23:00.000+11:00

'May you not rest, as long as I am living. You said I killed you – haunt me, then'
Emily Bronte, Wuthering HeightsWuthering Heights is the tale of two families both joined and riven by love and hate. Cathy is a beautiful and wilful young woman torn between her soft-hearted husband and Heathcliff, the passionate and resentful man who has loved her since childhood. The power of their bond creates a maelstrom of cruelty and violence which will leave one of them dead and cast a shadow over the lives of their children. Emily Bronte's novel is a stunningly original and shocking exploration of obsessive passion.

Today I finished reading Wuthering Heights. It is a beautiful story. I love and hate the characters with as much wild passion and they love and hate each other. Emily's writing creates vibrant waves of despair and gloom that cannot by capture the imagination and sent it into spiraling caverns of wonderment. I only wish Emily had written more, for Wuthering Heights is her first and last novel.

This is a must read for all lovers of classics, romance and trillers.

KRISTIN CASHORE; Bitterblue cover and release date

2011-10-09T18:02:00.000+11:00

If you are a regular follower of my blog you may have noticed that I officially LOVE Kristin Cashore and her series The Seven Kingdoms. Well, finally the cover art and expected publication date was released!

And my favourite cover; this one matches the copies of book 1 and 2 that I own.

Expected publication date: May 1st 2012!!!

And in Kristin's own words: "Book 3, titled Bitterblue and currently in progress, is a companion book to both Graceling and Fire and takes place in the seven kingdoms eight years after Graceling. Bitterblue will tie all three books together in some way. Bitterblue is the sixteen-year-old protagonist, and Katsa, Po, Giddon, Helda, and other characters from Graceling will be part of the fabric of the book. Plenty of fighting still to come!"

Who will take the international veg week challenge with me?

2011-09-29T15:13:00.000+10:00

In just one week you will:

Save the lives of two amazing animals.
Reduce water consumption by many thousands of litres.
Dramatically lower your carbon footprint.
Discover a world of delicious and filling meat-free cuisines.

Who will take the international veg week challenge with me?

EMILY BRONTE; Wuthering Heights quote #1

2011-09-28T10:50:00.001+10:00

I've just started reading Wuthering Heights again. I knew I loved this book for a reason. Emily Bronte's use of language is simply beautiful. To demonstrate just how imaginative she is, I have copied my favourite quote so far. This is our first sight of the house and this scene expresses the mood of the story so entirely it is as if I am approaching the house myself, walking through the wild moors to visit the miserable Mr Heathcliff.

'Wuthering Heights is the name of Mr Heathcliff's dwelling. Wuthering being a significant provincial adjective, descriptive of the atmospheric tumult to which its station is exposed, in stormy weather. Pure bracing ventilation they must have up there, at all times, indeed: one may guess the power of the north wind blowing over the edge, by the excessive slant of a few, stunted firs, at the end of the house; and by a grange of gaunt thorns all stretching their limbs one way, as if craving alms of the sun. Happily the architect had foresight to build it strong: the narrow windows are deeply set in the wall; and the corners defended with large jutting stones.'

If that doesn't make you want to pick up a copy of the book, then I don't know what will. It really is an english classic!

In My Mailbox #10

2011-09-19T16:23:00.000+10:00

In My Mailbox is a meme started by Kristi of The Story Siren in which bloggers post any new books they have on their shelves that week - received, bought, begged, borrowed.

I know I haven't been posting recently but it's my last semester of uni and I've got a lot of assignments to finish. Thats not to say that I haven't been secretly stalking each and everyone of your blogs as my procrastination :) In a totally not creepy sort of way.

I have also be buying lots of books. Every time I achieve something small at uni I reward myself with a present.

Seer of Sevenwaters (Sevenwaters #5) by Juliet Marillier. Seriously. Love. Juliet! Thanks again for the interview.

Huntress by Malinda Lo. This looks really cool. Who says you should not judge a book by it's cover. We all do.

The Last Four Things (The Left Hand of God #2) by Paul Hoffman. The first book wasn't my favourite. It was a very cynical and dark story but I really want to know what is going to happen.

Supernaturally (Paranormalcy #2) by Kiersten White YAY! What more can I say?

Wolfsbane (Nightshade #2) by Andrea Cremer. A good read so far, but the first novel was infinitely better. I just hope the third one is worth waiting for.

The Woman Who Loved Reindeer by Meredith Ann Pierce. I have been looking for this book everywhere! I used to read it at the beginning of every school year but have not been able to find my own copy since I graduated three years ago. YAY.

Sage for Sanctuary (Janna Mysteries #5) by Felicity Ann Pulman. This is like a Cadfael novel for juniors. Review coming soon.

Brave New World (Brave New World #1) by Aldous Huxley. This book took so much sweat, guts and tears to read when I was at school, I thought it only right I should own a copy. Whenever anyone comes to the house I intend to point and shout "I'VE READ THAT!"

Wuthering Heights (Vintage Classic Promo) by Emily Brontë. A true classic.

Pride and Prejudice and Zombies: Dawn of the Dreadfuls (Pride and Prejudice and Zombies prequel) by Steve Hockensmith, Jane Austen. I'm not quite sure why I bought this one. I'm not really a horror type person. But seriously who can walk past Pride and Prejudice with Zombies?

That's all from me today. What's in your mailbox?

ISOBELLE CARMODY

2011-09-07T10:42:00.000+10:00

Another amazing Australian author. I only wish this had come out a few days ago when it was still Aussie August.

Thanks Penguin :)

Aussie August Winners

2011-08-31T21:49:00.001+10:00

Thanks to everyone for entering my two giveaways in honour of our wonderful Australian authors.

The winner of the Juliet Marillier giveaway is.....

Darlene from Darlene's Book Nook

And the winner of the Felicity Pulman giveaway is.....

Jayne Fordham from the Australian Bookshelf

!!CONGRATULATIONS!!

I have emailed you both. You have 48 hours to reply before I choose a new winner.

Author interview and giveaway with FELICITY PULMAN

2011-08-25T20:31:00.001+10:00

I am honored to invite Felicity Pulman to Misty's Book Mess. Flick's latest novels in the Janna Mysteries, Sage for Sanctuary and Thyme For Trust, have just been released.

Felicity, you are an Australian author but your most current series, The Janna Mysteries, is set in Medieval Europe. What kind of research/travel did you undertake to ensure your writing feels authentic?

Writing the Janna Mysteries has been a 10 year journey for me. It's terribly difficult writing about medieval time in England when you live in Australia - quite insane probably! But the story catches hold and fires your imagination - and off you go. I've had several field trips to the UK, to walk in Janna's footsteps so that I can see the landscape through her eyes. Often what I see (eg a visit to Stonehenge) changes - and improves - my plot in unexpected ways - viz #4 Willows for Weeping. I go armed with guides to trees, wildflowers, birds etc so I can identify what I'm seeing. I visit the buildings (or ruins thereof) of the places she might have gone to, and everywhere I go I buy books, guides, maps and anything else that can inform my journey. I've amassed a HUGE library of all things medieval, from illustrated children's books (what a castle looks like, an abbey etc) to clothing of the time, society, politics, history, chronicles contemporary to the time (eg William of Malmesbury & the Gesta Stephani), biographies of Stephen and of Matilda, medieval herbals, etc etc. I try to make my books as historically accurate as possible (without losing sight of the story) and I discuss them with a friend of mine, Gillian Polack, an expert in all things medieval, who also reads the mss, which is a huge help.

Ghost Boy, unlike many of your novels, is set in Australia. Was this story easier or harder to write when compared to your stories set in Medieval Britain?

In terms of research on the ground, Ghost Boy was so much easier to research than the Janna Mysteries, because I live quite close to the Quarantine Station in Sydney and was also able to access an account of the Royal Commission in 1882, which informs so much of the book, from our local library. But Ghost Boy was my first 'real' book (I'd written a teen romance before that) and it was also my first taste of writing historical fiction - which brought a whole set of new challenges - and which also ignited my passion for researching and writing from history. There's a special Ghost Boy tour at the QS for students studying the novel in schools, and that's a particular joy to watch my story 'come alive'.

What is the number one piece of writing advice you would give to an inspiring author?
Only one? I would say polish and perfect your craft and never give up. And if I can go to Writing Tip No. 2 which is so useful - if you're not sure whether something is working or not, try reading it aloud. It's astonishing what your ears pick up that your eyes skip over.

You self published books 5 and 6 of The Janna Mysteries. What advice would you give to someone considering this option?

From an author's point of view, and depending on how hands-on you like to be with your own work: a publisher acts as a safety net, editing the mss, and making the decisions about 'the look', covers + distribution etc etc. I'm not very techno-savvy, so publishing through createspace was a huge learning curve for me. I'm also not very good about making decisions and taking responsibility for everything from how the book looks, size, type, cover, structure etc etc plus having to do the whole process on line. Having said that createspace was very helpful, you can always send them an email or ask them to phone you if you get stuck (bearing in mind the 19 hour time difference.) And they offer a full range of services, from editing to preparing a video book trailer to advertise your work - so you can pay as much or as little for the service as you wish. It's exhilarating (and somewhat scary) to see the finished product finally for sale, but I have the satisfaction of knowing that I did it, and that the Janna series is now complete - and for sale on amazon.com.

Coolies! And lastly, is there anything else you would like to add?
Writing is a roller-coaster ride, and not for the faint-hearted. The best advice I can give is to tell the story you're passionate to tell (rather than trying to read and copy the latest trend). Be professional, take advice, give it your best shot, and don't give up. Getting a rejection is a wound to the heart. On the other hand, holding your new published novel is (almost) as good as the birth of a child.

Thanks Felicity! That's inspirational :)

Felicity on Amazon

Felicity on the web

Felicity on Goodreads

And thanks to Felicity's generosity, I have one copy of the bindup Rosemary for Remembrance and Rue for Repentance (The Janna Mysteries book 1 and 2) to giveaway!

The rules are as follow:

Australia only.
You must leave a comment at the end of this post
All followers of Misty's Mess will receive a second entry
Giveaway ends on the 30th August at midnight Sydney time
The winner will be randomly chosen via random.org
The winner will be announced on Misty’s Mess on the 31^st August

JANE CATO; Just a girl

2011-08-23T17:54:00.001+10:00

Author: Jane Caro
Novel: Just a Girl
Publisher: UQP
Release date: May 2011

I do not remember when I discovered how my mother died, it seems to be something I always knew, a horror I absorbed through my skin.

Determined, passionate and headstrong, Elizabeth I shaped the destiny of a kingdom.

Her mother; Anne Boleyn, was executed by her father Henry VIII. From that moment on, Elizabeth competed with her two half-siblings for love and for Britain’s throne. In the gilded corridors of the royal palace, enemies she couldn’t see – as well as those bound to her by blood – plotted to destroy her.

Using her courage to survive and her wits to confound those who despised her, this young woman became one of the greatest monarchs the world has ever seen.

Even though she was just a girl, she had already lived a lifetime.

Jane Caro uses poetic license as well as historical research to develop the character of Elizabeth I before her coronation. She beautifully recreates Elizabeth's life of uncertainty, fear and loneliness so as to present the realities of being a Princess. This is the book that will make you stop wishing you were royalty!

Caro delicately expressed the scenes of sex, violence and death in a manner that present the facts without the excessive shock value. However, following so closely to the events of history results in an unoriginal story line. It is a great read for anyone wanted to learn about Tudor England but not for the learned historian.

View all my reviews at Goodreads

Author interview and giveaway with JULIET MARILLIER

2011-08-06T08:15:00.001+10:00

Today I am thrilled to welcome Australian's own fantasy author Juliet Marillier to Misty's Mess! With more than ten books and countless awards under her belt, it is a great honour to be able to talk to Juliet about her life as an author.

1. Your books are set overseas, for example, Wildwood Dancing is set in Transylavania and in Cybele's Secret your characters visit Turkey. What is it like writing about countries and cultures outside your home in Australia?

For me, story and characters come first and setting second. But the setting can be integral to the story - this is so with all of my books, not just those with the more exotic settings such as Transylvania and Turkey. For any book, whether it's set in the author's homeland or somewhere far away, the author needs to know the setting thoroughly to make it real for the reader. That means thorough research including, if possible, spending some time in the country of the story to get an idea of climate, terrain, culture, language and so on. It's a pity a writer of historical fiction can't go back to the time of the story for research! Of course, only about ten percent of the research actually gets into the book, because you don't want to overload it with detail, but the ninety percent the author keeps to herself helps her to create a believable world for the reader.

2. What particular elements of the country or culture you are visiting do you try to take back with you to Australia to use in you novels?

I focus on whatever I need for that particular story. Folklore, music, cultural aspects are usually part of it. For Cybele's Secret I was especially interested in learning about Islamic culture, and it was important for me to visit some mosques and talk to some Muslim women about their daily lifes and religious observances. For Wildwood Dancing I wanted to find out about merchant life, the guilds, the goods, the transport, and also have a good look at the terrain in Transylvania, where the very long, hard winters would have a real impact on how families could work, travel and survive. For some of my other books, set in earlier times, there are fewer historical records and artefacts to look at. My new series for young adults, Shadowfell, is set in a very ancient version of Scotland, and for that I'm having to do some educated guesswork about what the characters' world might be like. I'm hoping readers will be pleased with the result! The first in that series will be out towards the end of 2012.

3. What are the main influences on your writing?

Traditional folklore, fairy tales, myths and legends. Also, good writing of all kinds - I grew up on Shakespeare and the classic novelists such as Jane Austen, Charles Dickens, Charlotte Bronte. I believe the key to learning good style is to read as widely as you can, far outside your own genre. I do have some favourite contemporary authors, but nobody I would list as a particular influence. I think my early love of traditional storytelling had by far the biggest impact on the way I write.

4) Is there any thing else you would like to add?

Just thank you for having me. If any reader visiting this blog has not yet tried my work, it's a blend of folkloric fantasy, historical fiction, romance and family drama. I write both adult and young adult books. My work often appeals to readers who don't usually venture into fantasy, as it's strongly character-based. I will be happy to send a signed book to one randomly chosen reader who comments on this interview.

A BIG thanks to Juliet! It was a pleasure interviewing you.

Juliet on Goodreads

Juliet on the web

For the giveaway, the rules are as follow:

International! YAY
You must leave a comment at the end of this post and make sure to specify which book you would like. For Juliet's full list of published works see goodreads.
All followers of Misty's Mess will receive a second entry
The winner will be randomly chosen via random.org
The winner will be announced on Misty’s Mess on the 31^st August

Aussie August

2011-08-03T20:09:00.003+10:00

10 amazing bloggers have joined forces to bring you AUSSIE AUGUST! Australian authors, novels and giveaways across a range of YA fiction brought to your very own computer! :)

Below I have posted the schedule with all the links to the participating blogs. My three posts are in green, while the bolded post is that day's main event. For the official AUSSIE AUGUST blog list click here.

AUGUST 1

Mega Aussie Author Giveaway at The Australian Bookshelf

AUGUST 2

Win a signed paperback of Beautiful Malice by Rebecca James at Book Probe Review

Review of A Pocketful of Eyes by Lili Wilkinson at My Girl Friday

AUGUST 3

Review of End of the Night Girl by Amy T. Matthews at Sapphired Dragon

Guest Post and Giveaway with author Jane Routley at The Australian Bookshelf

AUGUST 4

Aussie Titles Giveaway at In The Good Books

Giveaway and review of The Coffeeholic and the Cafe by Elizabeth Martin at The Australian Bookshelf

AUGUST 5

Interview with author Shirley Marr at Irresistible Reads

AUGUST 6

Interview with author Juliet Marillier at Misty's Mess

August New Releases post at Irresistible Reads

AUGUST 7

Next Part of the ‘City in Pages’ Series at My Girl Friday

AUGUST 8

Interview with author Marianne de Pierres at Nice Girls Read Books

Win a signed copy of Burn Bright, CD of Angel Arias song and copy of Angel Arias (sequel to Burn Bright) when published over at Book Probe Reviews

Join the Burn Bright Campaign

AUGUST 9

Interview with author Lili Wilkinson at The Paperback Heart

Review of Queen Kat, Carmel and St Jude Get A Life by Maureen McCartney at My Girl Friday

AUGUST 10

Kim Falconer Giveaway at Sapphired Dragon

Guest post and giveaway with Sara Foster at The Australian Bookshelf

AUGUST 11

Win swag signed by Marianne de Pierres at Tea Mouse

AUGUST 12

Interview and Giveaway with author Nicole Murphy at The Australian Bookshelf

AUGUST 13

Guest post by author Rebecca James at Book Probe Reviews

Review of All I Ever Wanted by Vikki Wakefield at My Girl Friday

AUGUST 14

Win a paperback of A Pocketful of Eyes by Lili Wilkinson at The Paperback Heart

AUGUST 15

Favourite Aussie Titles (collaborative post) at In The Good Books

AUGUST 16

Win a copy of Wildwood Dancing by Juliet Marillier at Misty's Mess

Review of Clara in Washington by Penny Tangey at My Girl Friday

AUGUST 17

Win a Clara in Washington pack at My Girl Friday

Guest post and giveaway with Helene Young at The Australian Bookshelf

AUGUST 18

Interview with author Rebecca Lim at The Paperback Heart

AUGUST 19

Guest post by Kim Falconer at Sapphired Dragon

AUGUST 20

Interview at Tea Mouse

Guest post with Jack Heath at Book Probe Reviews

AUGUST 21

Interview and Giveaway with Bella Vendramini at The Australian Bookshelf

Review of Silvermay by James Moloney at The Paperback Heart

AUGUST 22

Book review at Sapphired Dragon

AUGUST 23

Guest post and Giveaway with author Rhiannon Hart at Book Probe Reviews

Review of 48 Shades of Brown by Nick Earls at My Girl Friday

AUGUST 24

Interview with author Steph Bowe at The Paperback Heart

Review of Blood Song by Rhiannon Hart at Book Probe Reviews

AUGUST 25

"What Makes Aussie Fiction Aussie Fiction" discussion at In The Good Books

AUGUST 26

Interview with YA author Felicity Pulman at Misty's Mess

Felicity Pulman giveaway at Misty's Mess

AUGUST 27

Fiction to Film: Looking for Alibrandi at My Girl Friday

AUGUST 28

Top 5 Aussie Titles That Need to See Foreign Shores at In The Good Books

AUGUST 29

Start of Kirsty Eagar week at Irresistible Reads

Win a copy of Raw Blue by Kirsty Eagar at Irresistible Reads

AUGUST 30

Featured post at Tea Mouse

AUGUST 31

Highlights from the Melbourne Writers Festival at My Girl Friday

End of the month – thanks for participating!

The painful truth

2011-07-31T22:19:00.000+10:00

"There is nothing to writing.

All you do it sit down at a

typewriter and bleed."

Ernest Hemingway

CARRIE JONES; Need

2011-07-30T16:23:00.000+10:00

I am going to review these books as I read them, each straight after the other.

Author: Carrie Jones
Novel: Need (Need #1)
Publication date: 2008

Zara White suspects there's a freaky guy semi-stalking her. She's also obsessed with phobias. And it's true, she hasn't exactly been herself since her stepfather died. But exiling her to shivery Maine to live with her grandmother? That seems a bit extreme. The move is supposed to help her stay sane...but Zara's pretty sure her mom just can't deal with her right now.

She couldn't be more wrong. Turns out the semi-stalker is not a figment of Zara's overactive imagination. In fact, he's still following her, leaving behind an eerie trail of gold dust. There's something not right - not human - in this sleepy Maine town, and all signs point to Zara.

In this creepy, compelling breakout novel, Carrie Jones delivers romance, suspense, and a creature you never thought you'd have to fear.

This book followed all the normal stages of a high school fantasy. The protagonist, Zara White, changes schools, finds new friends, has a whirl-wind romance and fights a couple of blood-lusting pixies. Nothing special there. What makes this story different is Zara's personality. She is a peace loving, human activist who wants to save the entire world via letter writing and reasoned arguments. It was very interesting seeing how someone so anti-violence coped with the brutal business of pixie hunting. It is this constant inner battle that makes the book worth the read. Zara is definitely not two-dementiaonal but a real character, someone I can see myself having a conversation with down at my local store.

Author: Carrie Jones

Novel: Captivate (Need #2)

Publication date: 2010

Zara and her friends knew they hadn't solved the pixie problem for good. Far from it. The king's needs grow deeper every day he's stuck in captivity, while his control over his people gets weaker. It's made him vulnerable. And now there's a new king in town.

A turf war is imminent, since the new pixie king, Astley, is moving in quickly. Nick nearly killed him in the woods on day one, but Zara came to his rescue. Astley swears that he and Zara are destined to be together, that he's one of the good guys. Nick isn't buying it, though Zara isn't as sure -- despite herself, she wants to trust the new king. But it's a lot more than her relationship with Nick that is at stake. It's her life -- and his.

Carrie Jones keeps her characters consistent and the story believable. Book two carries Zara's inner battle to the next level. She now has to come to terms with her own past actions which she believes contradict her work as a member of Amnesty International. This book also focuses on Zara's relationship with Nick, who is much more relaxed with killing. All of this makes for a good second book.

Author: Carrie Jones

Novel: Entice (Need #3)

Publication date: 2011

Zara and Nick are soul mates, meant to be together forever.
But that's not quite how things have worked out.

For starters, well, Nick is dead.
Supposedly, he's been taken to a mythic place for warriors known as Valhalla, so Zara and her friends might be able to get him back. But it's taking time, and meanwhile a group of evil pixies is devastating Bedford, with more teens going missing every day. An all-out war seems imminent, and the good guys need all the warriors they can find. But how to get to Valhalla?

And even if Zara and her friends discover the way, there's that other small problem: Zara's been pixie kissed. When she finds Nick, will he even want to go with her? Especially since she hasn't just turned...she's Astley's queen.

This was my least favourite of the series. I didn't like how the whole demon-pixie theme was side-lined because Zara was more focused on saving Nick from Death. I didn't think it was properly explained why she thought it was so important to save him. Sure, they're in love, but considering the sacrifices Zara was prepared to let her friends and family face it wasn't worth it. This book was like a side-line story, setting the scene for book four but not adding much to the current stage.

All in all I am giving this series three stars.

The Female Character (Country Life magazine)

2011-07-29T10:38:00.001+10:00

LAUREN DESTEFANO; Fever cover revealed

2011-07-28T10:01:00.000+10:00

The second book in the Chemical Garden Trilogy reveals a world outside the mansion as captivating and bleak as the one Rhine left behind--and sets the stage for an explosive conclusion!

Goodreads

I seriously love this cover. I can't even beginning to describe just how amazing it is. The font, the colours, the image, the really cool circles leading your eye to important clues....

The joys of editing

2011-07-22T17:30:00.000+10:00

"I was working on the proof of one of my poems all the morning, and took out a comma. In the afternoon I put it back again." Oscar Wilde

The Hunger Games movie

2011-07-21T18:05:00.000+10:00

It is really true. They are making the Hunger Games movie!!

The official movie teaser poster was released only yesterday! Isn't this just so exciting. I am really looking forward to the movie.

And of cause, most of you have probably already watched this epicness of epic! It's a scene from the book produced by amateur film makers. They really do the story justice.

And lastly, the official actors selected for the official movie include *drum roll*

Jennifer Lawrence as Katniss Everdeen

Josh Hutcherson as Peeta Mellark

Liam Hemsworth as Gale Hawthorne

Amandla Stenberg as Rue

Willow Shields as Primrose Everdeen

BUT as excited as I am about this movie.... I think it takes a little bit of the book away. It's hard to explain. When the story is just a book, all the characters, setting and scenes belongs to the reader, when it's a movie the story becomes the actors' and director's. Yes?

What do you think? Are you excited or do you think they should leave The Hunger Games alone?

JOHN FLANAGAN; The Lost Stories cover revealed

2011-07-15T17:18:00.001+10:00

new RANGER'S APPRENTICE BOOK 11: THE LOST STORIES in stores 3 October 2011:

I went to an all girls school and even when I was in years 11 and 12 Ranger's Apprentice was one of the most read books in our library. All the girls loved them. The main characters might be male, and the general target audience might be 9—13 year old boys, but these books are a great read for all ages and genders.

I would also recommend this series to any parent who is having trouble getting their child to read. The action packed adventure is always exciting but without excessive violence, and with no swearing/drug use/sexual remarks.

All in all, this is a great afternoon activity.

Description of Book
Everyone knows the legends of the Rangers of Araluen. But no one has heard the whole story - until now. Has Halt told Will the truth about how Will became an orphan? Did Gilan track down Morgarath's lieutenant after the battle of Three Step Pass? Is there to be a royal wedding - or will tragedy strike first?

Inspired by questions and letters sent by his loyal readers, John Flanagan answers all your burning questions about the world of the Rangers.

If you want to know what's gone before and what comes next for Will, Halt, Horace, Alyss, Evanlyn and Gilan - not to mention a certain stubborn little pony - THE LOST STORIES is an unmissable read.
You can follow Ranger's Apprentice on Facebook by clicking here :)

Manuscripts

2011-07-12T10:34:00.000+10:00

I just thought today I would share my joy with all my readers :) Look what I found when reading about some of my favourite authors.

This is a picture of the manuscript for Celine Kierman's new novel 'Resonance'. She also published The Moorehawke Trilogy... you know book one The Poison Throne. I found the original photo on Goodreads. If you would like to read Celine's post click here.

AND this is a picture of Kristin Cashore's manuscript for Bitterblue! Seriously exciting! It is the third book in her series along with Graceling and Fire. The original photos are on Kristin's blog. To read her post click here.

Maria V. Snyder coming to Australia and New Zealand

2011-07-02T08:49:00.000+10:00

I have posted Maria's schedule below (taken from her own website) and hope to meet up with some of the Aussie bloggers. If you are thinking of going I would love to know to which event. I don't live in Sydney but will be traveling up for the day..... but which day I don't know.

August 5-7, 2011Attending & Participating in Byron Bay Writers' Festival. (Byron Bay, New South Wales, Australia) All weekend.

August 9, 2011 Book Signing at Readings. (701 Glenferrie Rd, Hawthorn, Victoria, 3122,Australia, phone: (03) 9819 1917) 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.

August 16, 2011 Book Signing at Dymocks. (350 George Street, Sydney, New South Wales, 2000 Australia, phone: (02) 9223 5974) 4:30 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.

August 17, 2011 Author Event at Ultimo Library. (38-40 William Henry Street, Ultimo New South Wales, 2007, Australia, phone: (02) 9298 3110) 5:30 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.

August 19-21, 2011 Attending & Participating in Romance Writers of New Zealand's Annual Conference. (Crowne Plaza Hotel, 128 Albert Street, Auckland, New Zealand) All weekend.

Waiting on the sequel

2011-07-01T13:25:00.005+10:00

Here are just a couple of books that I am waiting to come out. They are all follow on books, some of which I have been waiting a very long time for. Most of them don't even have their covers yet :(

What are you waiting on?

Dates may be subject to change.

Woldsbane (Nightshade #2) by Andrea Cremer July 26^th 2011

Supernaturally (Paranormalcy #2) by Kiersten White July 26^th 2011

The Rogue’s Princess (The Other Countess series) by Eve Edwards July 7^th 2011

Froi of the Exiles (Lumatere Chronicles #2) by Melina Marchetta October 2011

Mastiff (Beka Cooper #3) by Tamora Pierce October 25^th 2011

Crossed (Matched #2) by Ally Condie November 1^st 2011

Clockwork Prince (The Infernal Devices #2) by Cassandra Clare December 6^th 2011

The Last Four Things (Left Hand of God #2) by Paul Hoffman January 6^th 2012

Jessica Rules the Dark Site (Jessica #2) by Beth Fantaskey January 10^th 2012

Fever (The Chemical Garden #2) by Lauren DeStefano February 21^st 2012

Pandemonium (Delirium #2) by Lauren Oliver March 6^th 2012

City of Lost Souls (The Mortal Instruments #5) by Cassandra Clare May 2012

Bitterblue (The Seven Kingdoms #3) by Kristin Cashore June 21^st 2012

City of Heavenly Fire (The Mortal Instruments #6) by Cassandra Clare September 2012

The Red Queen (The Obernewtyn Chronicles #8) by Isobelle Carmody 2012

A Million Stars (Across the Universe #2) by Beth Revis 2012

Untilted (Need #4) by Carrie Jones 2012

Fave reads of 2011 (so far) The Characters

2011-06-27T09:14:00.002+10:00

Organised by the very cool Nomes over at Inkcrush. You can join in by linking your own choices here. For the original rules click here.

1. best female POV

Zara from Need by Carrie Jones AND Evie from Paranormalcy by Kiersten White

Evie is just so alive! I could hardly believe how amazingly fun it was to read about her. While Zara was so thoughtful and kind.

2. best male POV

Elder from Across the Universe by Beth Revis

I'm ashamed to say this is the only book I've read with a male POV. It was very good. I can't wait for the second novel. You can read my review here.

3. Best couple <3

Jacy and Carey AND Alec and Magnus from The Mortal Instruments by Cassandra Clare

How can you not love Alec and Magnus? They are so cute together!

4. who i so want to be best friends with

Issie and Devyn from Need by Carrie Jones

Not the two protagonists but two very lovely, lively and kind people.

5. who i fell completely in love with (new literary crush)

Lucius Vladescuin from Jessica's Guide to Dating the Dark Side by Beth Fantaskey

Seriously.

6. worst (best) villian

Xander from Firelight by Sophie Jordan AND Valentin from The Mortal Instruments by Cassandra Clare AND Daniel from The Dark Divine Bree Despain

Daniel—the whole fighting with your inner demon. LOVED. IT.

7. best character twist (who you loved then hated or vice versa)

This might be considered a SPOILER Miss Sophia from Fallen by Lauren Kate

You can read my review here.

8. best kick-arse female

Evie from Paranormalcy by Kiersten White

9 best kick-arse male

Lucius Vladescuin from Jessica's Guide to Dating the Dark Side by Beth Fantaskey.

Again. Seriously.

10. broke your heart the most

Luke from Lament by Maggie Stiefvater

BONUS: 5 fave covers (from books i have read)

Fave reads of 2011 (so far) The Books

2011-06-24T11:03:00.002+10:00

Hosted by Nomes at Inkcrush. To participate click here and for Nomes list of faves of 2011 'The Books' click here.

Here are my picks!

1. favourite book read so far in 2011
This is harder than I thought it was going to be. The two I have selected are not my all time faves but that are two really good reads that I have enjoyed this year.

Paranormalcy by Kiersten White and Nightshade by Andrea Cremer
Review of Nightshade here

2. most powerful book
I was surpised just how much I enjoyed reading a book by an Australian author. Contemporary isn't normally my thing but this one is so beautiful I would definitely read it again. ( Just realised I read this book last year... whoops. I really was a powerful book because I can remember is so clearly) You can see my original review here.

This is Shyness by Leanne Hall

3. brilliantly funny
Emma by Jane Austen

4. best ache-y, heart-breaking, tear-jerker read

Lament by Maddie Stiefvater
The ending was not at all what I was expecting!

5. most beautiful story

Wither by Lauren DeStefano and Matched by Ally Condie
And the most beautiful covers to match. Review of Wither here and Matched here.

6. delicious rainy day comfort read

Jessica's Guide to Dating the Dark Side by Beth Fantaskey
I was really surprised how much I enjoyed this book. It is defiantly for a rainy day. Hot boys, beautiful dresses, mystery and a bit action what more could you want?

7. adrenalin-fuelled, unputdownable award

Inside Out by Maria V. Snyder

8. the beautiful prose award

The Other Countess and The Queen's Lady by Eve Edwards
I have linked the book featurettes here.

9. most atmospheric and vivid setting

The Luxe, Rumours, and Envy by Anna Godberson
The Luxe review here.

10. i-so-want-to-go-there award
This is way to hard to answer. How about everywhere! Narnia!

11. most original and imaginative

Tortall and Other Lands by Tamora Pierce

12. best under-appreciated, hidden gem book

An Excellent Mystery by Ellis Peters
Seriously. The. Best. Book. Ever.

13. i-had-no-idea-i-would-love this-so award

Fallen by Lauren Kate
Not really my thing but it didn't turn at to be anything like I expected! See review here.

14. most haunting story

Delirium by Lauren Oliver

15. outside my comfort zone but gosh how i loved it

Fallen by Lauren Kate
(Again)

16. series that i’m loving

The Forest of Hands and Teeth series by Carrie Ryan

17. most memorable voice award

Paranormalcy by Kiersten White

18 would make the best movie

Delirium by Lauren Oliver and The Homeward Bounders by Diana Wynne Jones

JOHN HIRST; The Shortest History of Europe

2011-06-21T07:00:00.001+10:00

Author: John Hirst
Book: The Shortest History of Europe
Genre: Nonfiction, history
Publisher: Black Inc.
Released: 2009

In The Shortest History of Europe, John Hirst takes us on a fascinating journey through antiquity, the Middle Ages and beyond, bringing European civilisation to life in all its peculiarity and exuberance. Beginning with Greek and Roman learning, Judeo-Christian religion and a Germanic warrior culture, it discusses how this unlikely alliance at the heart of European civilisation came about, producing empires and city-states, inspiring conquests and crusades, and giving rise to such figures as benign emperors, belligerent popes, chivalrous knights and enlightened citizens. Accompanied by lively illustrations and related with clarity and wit, The Shortest History of Europe tells the remarkable story of our shared civilisation.

My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This was a great read. I know my European history pretty well already but this book put everything into perspective. It's also a great read for people don't know their history. My mum is reading it now and she is surprised just how interesting she's finding it. I think this is because the book doesn't just describe the events but puts everything into context so that the reader can relate. John is an Australian, so he describes everything with an Australian perspective, which is really good, especially for fellow Australians like me and Mum :)

I would recommend this book to anyone who is studying European history at high school or even first year uni including Ancient Rome, Ancient Greece, all the way to the Tutor times, and the French Revolution. It's short (ie The shortest history) so reading it during your school term wouldn't take up very much time but it will give you a great advantage.

View all my reviews

LAUREN DESTEFANO; Wither

2011-06-20T10:48:00.000+10:00

Author: Lauren Destefano
Novel: Wither (The Chemical Garden Trilogy book 1)
Publisher: Simon & Schuster
Released: 2011

What if you knew exactly when you would die?
Thanks to modern science, every human being has become a ticking genetic time bomb — males only live to age twenty-five, and females only live to age twenty. In this bleak landscape, young girls are kidnapped and forced into polygamous marriages to keep the population from dying out.

When sixteen-year-old Rhine Ellery is taken by the Gatherers to become a bride, she enters a world of wealth and privilege. Despite her husband Linden's genuine love for her, and a tenuous trust among her sister wives, Rhine has one purpose: to escape — to find her twin brother and go home.

But Rhine has more to contend with than losing her freedom. Linden's eccentric father is bent on finding an antidote to the genetic virus that is getting closer to taking his son, even if it means collecting corpses in order to test his experiments. With the help of Gabriel, a servant Rhine is growing dangerously attracted to, Rhine attempts to break free, in the limited time she has left.

My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I pre-ordered this book and read it as soon as it arrived on my doorstep. It was just a pity that uni work caught up with me and I am only just posting my review now.

The cover is beautiful, and seriously, who doesn't judge a book by its cover? That is probably one of the reasons why I wanted to read it this one so much. And just like the cover, the story beautiful too. The dystopian genre is certainly kicking off at the moment, and this book adds its own piece of wonderfulness. It really gets you thinking about the future—where the human race will be in 100... 200 years time—and about how lucky we are at the present.

This book does contains violence—I started reading the first chapter to my mother, not a good idea—and sexual references. I would recommend it to the older half of the YA readers, just because it is quite a confronting story with teen pregnancy, polygny, killing and creepy as experiments.

That been said, I certainly wouldn't want to be Rhine. She goes through some really hard experiences. How she copes and deals with these problems is very inspiring. She never gives up hope but nor does she try to delude herself into thinking her circumstances are better than they really are. And I think that, more than anything, is what makes this book such a great read.

View all my reviews

LAUREN KATE; Fallen

2011-06-18T15:39:00.000+10:00

Author: Lauren Kate
Novel: Fallen
Published by: Random House

There’s something achingly familiar about Daniel Grigori.

Mysterious and aloof, he captures Luce Price’s attention from the moment she sees him on her first day at the Sword & Cross boarding school in sultry Savannah, Georgia. He’s the one bright spot in a place where cell phones are forbidden, the other students are all screw-ups, and security cameras watch every move.

Even though Daniel wants nothing to do with Luce–and goes out of his way to make that very clear–she can’t let it go. Drawn to him like a moth to a flame, she has to find out what Daniel is so desperate to keep secret . . . even if it kills her.

This book was not at all what I was expecting. And this was a very good thing.

When I read the blurb I thought it was going to be your typical high school/fallen angel/romance novel and it was but in a total unexpected way. I don't want to reveal any spoilers, but I will say that is if you expectations are low then don't follow your instinct and read this book any way. It's worth it.

I really liked how the protagonist, Luce, don't understand what was happening and the reader was able to 'discover the truth' as Luce did. I also enjoyed reading about Luce's new school. Sword & Cross is not your average school. Lauren Kate didn't try to hide any of the unpleasant facts with regards to possible drug use and violence, although these themes did not dominate the story, which focused on Luce's new friendships and the strange mystery surrounding Daniel Grigori.

View all my reviews

Kristin Cashore in Australia!

2011-06-14T12:47:00.000+10:00

The old saying 'you should never meet your hero' definitely does not apply to Kristin Cashore!

Author of Graceling and Fire, Kristin blessed our Australian shores this May with her tour of Sydney and Melbourne. I was lucky enough to be able to travel into town (only three and a half hours on the bus) to see her give a talk, Q & A, and a book signing.

It really was lovely being able to see a few pages of Kristin's hand written draft and to be able to ask questions about her writing process. She answered everyone's questions with thought and honesty. My favourite piece of advice was her own thoughts on personal muse demons who attack an authors confidence. Thanks Kristin for showing us that even professionals such as your self are sometimes struck down with doubts about your writing.

To hear more from Kristin visit her blog This is my secret.

New Release by CUTTER KIMBERLY; The Maid

2011-05-23T07:56:00.000+10:00

It is the early part of the fifteenth century and the tumultuous Hundred Years War rages on. The French city of Orleans is under siege, English soldiers tear through the countryside wreaking destruction on all who cross their path, and Charles VII, the uncrowned king, has neither the strength nor the will to rally his army. And in the quiet of her parents’ garden in Domremy, a twelve-year-old peasant girl, Jehanne, hears a voice that will change her life – and the course of European history.

The tale of Jehanne d’Arc, the saint and warrior who believed she had been chosen by God to save France, and who led an army of 10,000 soldiers against the English, has captivated our imagination for centuries. But the story of Jehanne – the girl – whose sister was murdered by the English, who sought an escape from her violent father and a forced marriage, who taught herself to ride, and fight, and lead, and who somehow found the courage and tenacity to convince first one, then two, then tens, then thousands to follow her, is at once thrilling, unexpected and heart-breaking.

Sweeping, gripping and rich with intrigue, betrayal, love and valour, The Maid is an unforgettable novel about the power and burden of faith, and the exhilarating and devastating consequences of fame.

Doesn't it sound amazing! Released 3rd May.

Random Acts of Kindness May signup

2011-05-16T10:42:00.000+10:00

RULES:

Show off your participation by grabbing our RAK button :)

Create a wish list (on Amazon, Goodreads, or your blog etc) and post it in the Google Doc located in each R.A.K post for the month.

If you choose to do a R.A.K for someone, check out their wish list and contact that blogger for their address.

At the end of the month, SHOW US YOUR R.A.K! Make a post saying 'Thank You' to whoever granted one of your wishes and share it with us :)

OPEN TO EVERYONE!

Let's keep our International bloggers in mind and in our hearts.

Remember, there's always the Book Depository and they offer FREE shipping!

Random Acts of Kindness is run by Isalys and Vanessa. For more information click here to see their blog.

LILI WILKINGSON has hit again

2011-05-05T09:29:00.000+10:00

Another great novel by the Australia author Lili has finally hit the shelves! It sounds like a great read, with a Museum and everything. Just what I love.

When a dead body is discovered at the Museum, Beatrice May Ross is determined to use her sleuthing skills to solve the case. Sharp, sassy YA crime-fiction, with a dash of romance and a splash of funny.

Bee is in her element working in the taxidermy department at the Museum of Natural History, but her summer job turns out to be full of surprises:

A dead body in the Red Rotunda. A mysterious Museum benefactor. A large stuffed tiger in the Catacombs. A handsome boy with a fascination for unusual animal mating habits.

And a pocketful of glass eyes.

Can Bee sift through the clues to discover whether her mentor really committed suicide ... or is there a murderer in their midst?

ANDREA CREMER; Nightshade

2011-04-22T14:56:00.000+10:00

Author: Andrea Cremer
Novel: Nightshade
Publisher: Atom Books

Calla Tor has always known her destiny: After graduating from the Mountain School, she'll be the mate of sexy alpha wolf Ren Laroche and fight with him, side by side, ruling their pack and guarding sacred sites for the Keepers.

But when she violates her masters' laws by saving a beautiful human boy out for a hike, Calla begins to question her fate, her existence, and the very essence of the world she has known. By following her heart, she might lose everything— including her own life. Is forbidden love worth the ultimate sacrifice?

I can't stress how much I loved this book. For days afterwards I was constantly thing about the characters, the story line and what may happen in the second book (soon to be released).

The reason I enjoyed this book so much was not because of the blossoming romance between Calla and Shay, but because of the wolf pack interactions. I loved reading about how each member of the groups fitting in with the others. They all defended, listened to and trusted Calla, their alpha female, and in return she loved and cared for them in every way she could. She is a sexy, intelligent, and dangerous girl, who falls in love with a human boy despite all her wolf instincts.

I also enjoyed reading about her pack interacting with the other teenage wolf pack, when at school, and in the forest. Cremer shows a great understanding of relationship between people, who are forced together, not through friendship but by greater and more powerful force; the need to survive and to protect the pack.

They are like tight knit family, always in each other faces but always with each other best interest at heart, even when Calla does the unthinkable and falls for the wrong boy.

View all my reviews at Goodreads

In My Mailbox #9

2011-04-18T10:10:00.003+10:00

Weekly meme from The Story Siren.

Only two books this week. I bought them the day I promised myself I would not spend any money. Very glad that I did. I've already finished them both, one night each. And LOVE THEM! Seriously if you haven't read 'Paranormalcy' yet you really should. Especially because the second book is coming out in a few months. Can't wait! Seriously! Can't. Wait.

Stopping there or else this post will turn into a review rather than a mailbox.

Review coming really soon!

ANNA GODBERSEN; The Luxe

2011-04-12T12:16:00.003+10:00

Author: Anna Godbersen

Novel: The Luxe

Publisher: Penguin Books

Imagine, if you will, New York City, 1899 . . .

Society's elite: the glamour, the grandeur, the glittering parties, the most handsome beaus, the most beautiful debutantes, the sounds of decadence, the rich girl, the humble boy, the forbidden love, the hushed whispers, the stolen glances, the secret rendezvous, the sin, the scandal, the mystery, the revenge.

You are cordially invited to step into The Luxe, where the secrets are dark and the sins are delicious . . .

This is a really nice, fun read. I wasn't so enthralled that I had to put the rest of my life on hold just to find out what happened in the end. Instead, I pulled this book out whenever I was on the bus or had an hour to spare between uni classes. I liked it because the chapters flick between characters and you don't feel like you have to rush to the end.

I also liked how the end of the book was the first chapter. It had me trying to guess how the characters had managed to get themselves into that situation in the first place. There are enough twists and turns that the story was easy to follow but so that I never did entirely guess the ending.

I don't have a favourite character. I think because the book switches between four people you don't ever really become attached to just one. Normally this would be a down fall, but this time I found it comforting. Like I said before it is a fun read, conveniently detachable so that you can read for an hour to two and put the rest away for another rainy day.

I will defiantly be reading the next book, 'Rumors', to find out what happens next :)

In My Mailbox #8

2011-04-03T07:00:00.008+10:00

I went on a bit of a splurge this week but am every happy with the results. I got a whole lot of books that have been on my waiting list, some for a couple of months now. *happy face* Now I just need to find the time to read them in between uni essays and exams.

The third book in this 'threesome' just come out this week as well.

I love Maria, V. Snyder! and have all her other books. You can find the links for my other review on my sidebar.

Can't wait to read Wither! It looks amazing with its dystopian setting!

This one was a gift from my aunt in England. It came in a really cool package. A wonderful surprise.

This is a double sided page from the 1583 edition of Beastiary,compendium of beasts, written in German and Latin. The side on display contains two illustration of wolves with one being a werewolf (the medieval people really did think they existed). You don't want to know how much I paid for it! Oh and sorry the photo has a strange sheen to it, the page is still in it's protective plastic wrap. Apparently I have to keep it out of the sunlight or it will fade away.

What's in your mailbox?

JOHN STEPHENS; The Emerald Atlas trailer

2011-04-02T09:38:00.001+11:00

Description of book

The first thrilling book in the most exciting children's fantasy series since Harry Potter and His Dark Materials.

They were taken from their beds one frozen night, when the world was covered in snow. The silhouette of a tall, thin man has haunted Kate ever since.

Ten years on, Kate, Michael and Emma have grown up in a string of miserable orphanages, and all memories of their parents have faded to a blur. Arriving at Cambridge Falls, where the rolling fog distorts their sense of time and the town is eerily silent, the children quickly realise there is something different about this place – and Kate feels sure she has seen the dark, crooked house before.

Exploring the house, they discover an old, empty leather book. The moment they touch it, an ancient magical prophecy is set irrevocably in motion, and the children are thrown into a dangerous alternate reality of dark enchantments, terrifying monsters, noble dwarves and entire cities buried beneath the earth. Only they can prevent the terrible event that will ruin Cambridge Falls – and stop the world from falling into complete devastation.

Published by Random House, released April 2011 (Australia, I'm not sure about the rest of the world).

JOHN STEPHENS; The Emerald Atlas trailer

2011-04-02T09:34:00.002+11:00

DIANA WYNNE JONES

2011-03-28T21:14:00.002+11:00

Thank you. Rest in peace.

Neil Gaiman's Being Alive, Mostly About Diana

LAUREN DESTEFANO; Wither book trailer

2011-03-15T10:38:00.002+11:00

I have already pre-ordered my copy. I can't wait! It sounds very good.

In My Mailbox #7

2011-03-14T12:44:00.006+11:00

This is a weekly IMM run by The Story Siren. Book bloggers all over the world share their new acquisitions. For more information go here.

This is my very first vblog and I had lots of fun and lots of trouble making it. I didn't want to talk so I tried adding explanations in afterwards but could only add a few. For that reason I've added a written commentary below. Hopefully I'll work out what I did wrong and everything will flow more smoothly next time.

Hope you enjoy! :)

1. Culpeper's Complete Herbal was written during the rein of Elizabeth I and while it contains recipes I would strongly advice not to try any, especially as they used to put white lead on their faces. They're really funny to read though.

2. The Readers Digest Complete Book of Herb is a modern day take and all the recipes are safe. It looks very good and I intend to try some out next time I have a headache.

3. The giant "Cities of the Renaissance World' was first published in 1572. The book is mainly a set of beautiful images mapping different cities across Europe including London, Rome, Lisbon, Constantinople, and York.

4. Nightshade was really good. I'll have to put up a review soon. I really want the next book to come out now. I can't believe they changed the covers. I love them like they are now! PLEASE DON'T CHANGE THEM!

5. I can't believe it took me so long to buy a copy of The Dark Divine by Bree Despain and Leviathan by Scott Westerfeld. I really wanted the next two books in the series but they were both hard covers and I want them to match. I guess I'll have to wait a little longer.

Thanks for watching. WHAT'S IN YOUR MAILBOX?

Debut Author Challenge 2011 list

2011-03-14T07:30:00.004+11:00

I've finally put together my list of 2011 debut authors I intend to include in DAC, run by the very cool Story Siren.

Most of you probably already know about this Challenge but if you want more information click here.

Don't worry, I intend to update this list as the year goes on and I find more debut authors.

1. Across the Universe by Beth Revis*
2. Unearthly by Cynthia Hand*
3. The Iron Witch by Karen Mahoney*
4. Entwined by Heather Dixon
5. Wither (Chemical Garden, #1) by Lauren DeStefano
6. The False Princess by Eilis O'Neal*
7. Angelfire by Allison Courtney Moulton*
8. The Water Wars by Cameron Stracher*
9. Possession by Elana Johnson

* Books that have already been released this year in America/UK (I'm not so sure about the Australian release dates).

Are you participating?

ANDREA CEMER; NightShade preview

2011-03-04T08:41:00.005+11:00

Currently reading this and I LOVE it! I can't believe the second book comes out in July. That's so long away :( I don't know if I'll be able to wait that long. (p.s review coming when I get back from holidays. Going to the coast for my 21st. Guess what book I'm taking to read in the car? haha)

EVE EDWARDS; Lucey Chronicles series clip

2011-02-22T16:59:00.008+11:00

I just saw this clip on between the lines Penguin and loved it. I really really want to read this book and that's saying something because today I spent a whole hour in Borders and came out empty handed. I couldn't find anything I want to read. That being said, I am so going in tomorrow to buy this book (assuming they have it and I don't think they do so I'll go somewhere else tomorrow and buy it.... you know what I mean).

p.s I laughed when I saw that their idea of a simple life included pottery making and thread dying. I'm pretty sure they are not as easy as they appear.

p.p.s I'm also pretty sure they didn't have 'country' music back in Beth's day :) funny

And look book 2 is coming out really soon!

lots of love
Misty

Borders and Angus + Robertson chain collapse with an Australia twist

2011-02-21T10:22:00.003+11:00

Bookstore giant Borders files for bankruptcy

See the original ABC news article here

US bookstore chain Borders announced that it has filed for bankruptcy protection from its creditors so that it can reorganise and re-emerge as "a stronger and more vibrant book seller."

"It has become increasingly clear that in light of the environment of curtailed customer spending, our ongoing discussions with publishers and other vendor related parties, and the company's lack of liquidity, Borders Group does not have the capital resources it needs to be a viable competitor and which are essential for it to move forward with its business strategy to reposition itself successfully for the long-term," Borders president Mike Edwards said in a statement.

"To position Borders to remedy this condition, Borders Group, with the authorisation of its board of directors, has filed a petition for reorganisation relief under Chapter 11 of the Bankruptcy Code," he said, citing the US statute that allows him to fend off creditors seeking repayment while the company regroups.

But the closure will not affect Australian stores, which are run independently of the US outfit.

In a statement on the Borders Australia website, the company said the only link it had with US stores was the name.

"Borders stores in Australia, New Zealand and Singapore are 100 per cent owned by REDgroup Retail, a local Australian private company," it said.

"Our stores have no relationship or link with Borders stores in the US."

In recent years Borders in the US has lost millions of dollars, in an industry in major transition from print to digital products.

In July, the company launched an online electronic book store to challenge Amazon, Apple and Barnes and Noble in the fast-growing market for digital books - companies that the Ann Arbor, Michigan based chain is seen as having badly trailed in the rapidly changing book market.

Mr Edwards said Borders has received commitments for $US505 million in Debtor-in-Possession (DIP) financing led by GE Capital, Restructuring Finance.

"This financing should enable Borders to meet its obligations going forward so that our stores continue to be competitive for customers in terms of goods, services and the shopping experience," Mr Edwards said.

"This decisive action will give Borders the opportunity to achieve a proper infusion of capital in order to have the opportunity to have the time to reorganise in order to reposition itself to be a successful business for the long-term," Mr Edwards said.

Recent news reports predicted the reorganisation filing, after Borders Group delayed payments to vendors for two months and in recent weeks aggressively pursued deals with creditors and vendors despite withholding payments to conserve cash.

"We are confident that, with the protection afforded under Chapter 11 and with the support of employees, publishers, suppliers and creditors, and the reading public, a successful reorganisation can be achieved enabling Borders to emerge from the process as a stronger and more vibrant book seller," Mr Edwards said.

BUT THEN...

Borders Australia and Angus & Robertson chains collapse

Written by Patrick Stafford

See the original article here

The owner of the Australian book selling chains Borders and Angus & Robertson has been placed in the hands of administrators, less than 24 hours after Borders in the US filed for chapter 11 bankruptcy protection.
Ferrier Hodgson was appointed as the company’s administrator late on Thursday afternoon. Partner Steve Sherman is handling the matter.
RedGroup Retail were contacted but a spokesperson declined to comment.
The first creditor’s meeting will take place within eight working days of the collapse.
So far reasons have not been given for the collapse, but the book industry has been hit hard by falling consumer confidence, a spending shift towards online book sellers and the rise of eBooks.
RedGroup Retail is also believed to be carrying a substantial level of debt.
RedGroup operates both the Borders and Angus & Robertson chains in Australia. The Angus & Robertson chain alone has over 100 stores with 60 franchises, with the chain operating in Australia since the 1800s.
Borders opened its first store in Australian in 1998, and has since expanded around the country.
The appointment comes after Borders filed for bankruptcy in the United States overnight. The company said 30% of its stores are unprofitable and losing about $US2 million a day.
The Australian operation is not financially related to the Borders chain in the United States.
The collapse comes after a tumultuous few months for RedGroup Retail.
Despite preparing the company for a float or trade sale, last October managing director David Fenlon resigned after the company unveiled a full-year loss of $43 million for the 2009-10 year.
The company, which is owned by private equity group PEP, was also forced to get a waiver from its lenders after breaching some of its financial covenants.
The company employs about 2500 people. Both chains are expected to continue to trade while administrators assess the financial position of the company.

Awesome I Am Number Four Stunts Featurette!

2011-02-17T16:31:00.000+11:00

p.s I really have to read this book! The movie looks so cool :) have you guys read it yet?

Thanks for your comments :)

February 14th Interplanetary Be Who You Are Day

2011-02-14T19:24:00.003+11:00

Happy Interplanetary Be Who You Are Day everybody :)

As originally invented and described by Kristin Cashore here on her blog. YAY for imagination and common sense! YAY for authors who wake up in the morning and have to courage to be different!

100 Young Adult Books for the Feminist Reader

2011-02-07T09:45:00.003+11:00

The original list can be found here. And the books in bold are the ones I've read. Not that many but better than nothing. My favorites would have to be Tamora Pierce (good to see she was added twice) Howl's Moving Castle and The Hunger Games. And of cause, my most favourite Graceling!

1. Estrella's Quinceañera by Malin Alegria
2. How the Garcia Girls Lost Their Accents by Julia Alvarez
3. Choir Boy by Charlie Anders
4. Speak by Laurie Halse Anderson
5. Wintergirls by Laurie Halse Anderson
6. Alt Ed by Catherine Atkins
7. The Rhyming Season by Edward Averett
8. The True Confessions of Charlotte Doyle by Avi
9. Tithe: A Modern Faerie Tale by Holly Black
10. Dangerous Angels by Francesca Lia Block
11. Are You There God? It's Me, Margaret by Judy Blume
12. Forever by Judy Blume
13. A Great and Terrible Beauty by Libba Bray
14. Debbie Harry Sings in French by Meagan Brothers
15. All-American Girl by Meg Cabot
16. Graceling by Kristin Cashore
17. The Plain Janes by Cecil Castelluci and Jim Rugg
18. This is All: The Pillow Book of Cordelia Kenn by Aidan Chambers
19. Dancing in Red Shoes Will Kill You by Dorian Cirrone
20. The House on Mango Street by Sandra Cisneros
21. Magic Knight Rayearth by CLAMP
22. Celine by Brock Cole
23. The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins
24. Walk Two Moons by Sharon Creech
25. The Midwife's Apprentice by Karen Cushman
26. Sex Education by Jenny Davis
27. Mare’s War by Tanita S. Davis
28. Dreamland by Sarah Dessen
29. For the Win by Cory Doctorow
30. Down to the Bone by Mayra Lazara Dole
31. A Northern Light by Jennifer Donnelly
32. El Lector by William Durbin
33. The Skin I’m In by Sharon Flake
34. Harriet the Spy by Louise Fitzhugh
35. Breathing Underwater by Alex Flinn
36. Crossing Stones by Helen Frost
37. Annie on my Mind by Nancy Garden
38. The Year They Burned the Books by Nancy Garden
39. Sticks and Stones by Beth Goobie
40. Nothing But the Truth (and a few white lies) by Justina Chen Headley
41. Out of the Dust by Karen Hesse
42. Howl's Moving Castle by Diana Wynne Jones
43. It’s Not What You Expect by Norma Klein
44. Uncommon Faith by Trudy Krisher
45. The Disreputable History of Frankie Landau-Banks by E. Lockhart
46. Toning the Sweep by Angela Johnson
47. The Bermudez Triangle by Maureen Johnson
48. Another Kind of Cowboy by Susan Juby
49. White Sands, Red Menace by Ellen Klages
50. A Wrinkle in Time by Madeleine L’engle
51. Magic or Madness by Justine Larbalestier
52. Voices by Ursula K. Le Guin
53. Ella Echanted by Gail Carson Levine
54. Gravity by Leanne Lieberman
55. Ash by Malinda Lo
56. Number the Stars by Lois Lowry
57. Tomorrow, When the War Began by John Marsden
58. Sloppy Firsts by Megan McCafferty
59. Sold by Patricia McCormick
60. The Member of the Wedding by Carson McCullers
61. Thunder Over Kandahar by Sharon E. McKay
62. The Blue Sword by Robin McKinley
63. The Secret Under My Skin by Janet McNaughton
64. Night Flying by Rita Murphy
65. Revenge by Taslima Nasrin
66. A Step from Heaven by An Na
67. Skip Beat! By Yosiki Nakamura
68. Simply Alice by Phyllis Reynolds Naylor
69. Island of the Blue Dolphins by Scott O’Dell
70. Zahrah the Windseeker by Nnedi Okorafor-Mbachu
71. Rampant by Diana Peterfreund
72. Keeping You a Secret by Julie Anne Peters
73. Luna by Julie Anne Peters
74. Alanna: The First Adventure by Tamora Pierce
75. Trickster’s Choice by Tamora Pierce
76. What Happened to Lani Garver by Carol Plum-Ucci
77. Imani All Mine by Connie Rose Porter
78. The Golden Compass by Philip Pullman
79. The Ruby in the Smoke by Philip Pullman
80. Beneath My Mother's Feet by Amjed Qamar
81. The Sweet In-Between by Sheri Reynolds
82. Flygirl by Sherri Smith
83. Lucy the Giant by Sherri Smith
84. Roll of Thunder, Hear My Cry by Mildred D. Taylor
85. Big Fat Manifesto by Susan Vaught
86. Climbing the Stairs by Padma Venkatraman
87. Not That Kind of Girl by Siobhan Vivian
88. Izzy, Willy-Nilly by Cynthia Voigt
89. Cress Delahanty by Jessamyn West
90. Uglies by Scott Westerfeld
91. When Kambia Elaine Flew in from Neptune by Lori Aurelia Williams
92. Blue Tights by Rita Williams-Garcia
93. One Crazy Summer by Rita Williams-Garcia
94. Parrotfish by Ellen Wittlinger
95. Make Lemonade by Virginia Euwer Wolff
96. The House You Pass on the Way by Jaqueline Woodson
97. Dealing with Dragons by Patricia C. Wrede
98. When the Black Girl Sings by Bil Wright
99. Sweethearts by Sara Zarr
100. The Book Thief by Markus Zusak