Month of ARC Giveaways (MG/YA)

As promised earlier this month, due to an overflowing giveaway box of ARCs in desperate need of new homes, December shall be a Month of ARC Giveaways!!

I will be holding a bunch of different giveaways over the course of the month - some for single specific titles, some for several of the winner's choosing! (Thank you to those who let me know what titles they wanted last week! :) There will be both Middle Grade and Young Adult titles up for grabs (so be sure to check the age requirement on every title as it will vary for the books with more mature content). All giveaways will be US only - apologies to my International Followers.

And speaking of Followers, these giveaways will be for blog Followers only, so be sure you're Following the blog via GFC, Bloglovin', and/or email!

The first giveaway goes live tomorrow, so be sure to check back - along with every day in December, because you never know when or what will be up for grabs! Thank you for Following, and good luck! :)

UPDATE: See the "Current Giveaways" on the sidebar for links to the running giveaways!

Stacking the Shelves (11/30/13)

Time for another Stacking the Shelves, hosted by Tynga's Reviews, where I share the books that I've added to my shelves this week.

• Unhinged by A.G. Howard (ARC - Traded) - *flails* Was lucky enough to trade for an ARC! Can't wait to get started.
• Sweet Rein Vol. 1 by Sakura Tsukuba (Pbk - Purchased New) - Decided to splurge on a Christmas present for myself and OMG what a find! Absolutely loved it and can't wait for more.  
• Skip Beat Vol. 32 by Yoshiki Nakamura (Pbk - Purchased New) - Continuing one of my favorite series. Cannot wait to read it!

This Week on the Blog

Sunday What Do YOU Want To Win?
Monday  Manga Review: Fruits Basket by Natsuki Takaya
Wednesday   Waiting On Wednesday: Wild by Alex Mallory
Friday   The Friday Reads Review (11/29/13)

So what books did you add to your shelves this week?

The Friday Reads Review (11/29/13)

Welcome to The Friday Reads Review, a regular Friday segment where I share what I've been reading the past week! Want to join the Friday fun? Post your own Friday Reads Review on your blog, and then leave the link in the Comments below!

>> CURRENTLY READING <<

Avalon by Mindee Arnett (ARC - Releases 1/14)

Firefly, but with teenagers!! Quite enjoying it!

>> JUST FINISHED <<

Blindsided by Natalie Whipple (Pbk - Releases 1/14)
Not as good as Transparent overall, yet so much better in different ways. Review to come.

Sweet Rein vol. 1 by Sakura Tsukuba (Pbk)
While the whole Santa/reindeer thing is a little ridiculous, I didn't care as the characters and stories were just so sweet and fun and OMG I WANT A KAITO HOW DO I GET A KAITO. *starts bumping into everyone* (If you read the story, you'll get this.) Also, the bonus vampire one-shot at the end was ADORABLE.


>> READING NEXT <<

Independent Study by Joelle Charbonneau (ARC)
I really enjoyed The Testing, so I look forward to seeing how the story continues!

So what are you reading this week?

Waiting On Wednesday: Wild (Alex Mallory)

Waiting on Wednesday is a weekly blogging event hosted by Breaking the Spine, in which one spotlights an upcoming release they are eagerly anticipating.

This week's pre-publication "can't-wait-to-read" selection is:

Title: Wild

Author: Alex Mallory

Release Date: July 8, 2014

Summary (from Goodreads):

The forest is full of secrets, and no one understands that better than Cade. Foraging, hunting, surviving— that’s all he knows. Alone for years, Cade believes he’s the sole survivor. At least, until he catches a glimpse of a beautiful stranger…

Dara expected to find natural wonders when she set off for a spring break camping trip. Instead, she discovers a primitive boy— he’s stealthy and handsome and he might be following her. Intrigued, Dara seeks him out and sets a catastrophe in motion.

Thrust back into society, Cade struggles with the realization that the life he knew was a lie. But he’s not the only one. Trying to explain life in a normal town leaves Dara questioning it.

As the media swarm and the police close in, Dara and Cade risk everything to get closer. But will the truth about Cade’s past tear them apart?

Why I'm Looking Forward To It: A YA retelling of Tarzan. Enough said.

So what book are you waiting on?

Manga Review: Fruits Basket Series (Natsuki Takaya)

Title: Fruits Basket
Author: Natsuki Takaya
Volumes Reviewed: 23 (complete)
Publisher: Tokyopop
Release Date: February 10, 2004 - July 6, 2009
Genre: Young Adult Contemporary Fantasy Romance
Rated: Older Teen (heavy emotional situations, violence, abuse, child abuse, some language, partial nudity, some sensuality)
Find On: Goodreads
Summary:

A family with an ancient curse...

And the girl who will change their lives forever...

Tohru Honda was an orphan with no place to go until the mysterious Sohma family offered her a place to call home. Now her ordinary high school life is turned upside down as she's introduced to the Sohma's world of magical curses and family secrets.  

*          *          *

Art: Black & White. It starts out rather sharp but smooths out as Ms. Takaya's art evolves. The backgrounds are simple but authentic; the characters unique and easy to tell apart. The animal forms are adorable!

Story: Taken in by several members of the mysterious Sohma family after her mother's death and the subsequent loss of her home, Tohru stumbles upon the Sohma family curse and takes it upon herself to break it and save the ones she loves. It's a beautiful story about the depths of love and loss - you will laugh, you will cry, your heart will hurt, but it will be a good hurt. It's a heavy tale but a sweet one, and there is a lot of humor to balance out the darker tones. Like most Japanese stories, while it doesn't necessarily end on a "happily ever after" note, it's a tender and satisfying ending that will stay with you long after you've finished.

Characters: There are over two dozen important characters in this series - all of which are unique and lovable in their own way - but just three main players. At the top is Tohru Honda, probably the sweetest and nicest girl you'll ever find in life or on paper, despite her unlucky past. She's the catalyst and the heart of the entire story - everything revolves around her, and with good reason. You can trace every major moment back to her in some way, even if it doesn't initially appear so. She's the girl you wish was your friend, and her happy ending is everyone's happy ending. Yuki Sohma, one of the most tortured souls in the bunch, was a sweetie and, while not exactly a prince, definitely worthy of his own happy ending. His journey out of despair was a beautiful one. The Tortured Soul Award goes to Kyo Sohma, however - mistreated as a child, blamed for everything and looked down on by everyone, his brash attitude towards life and those around him was understandable. For such a strong boy though, he was a broken mess, and I was happy he found salvation in the end.

The rest of the cast was extensive, but with 23 volumes everyone got their time in the spotlight. At the top is definitely Shigure Sohma, who some might actually consider part of the main players. But for such a major character, he was more of a quiet background figure to me. While selfish and sometimes rather cruel, he was just what many needed in their hour of need - even if it was only to give them shelter. Akito was a wonder of amazing writing, encompassing the Japanese dynamic of "there are no evil people, only misunderstood and tortured souls." My hate burned and my soul wept, and by the end of the series I was elated how his story turned out. Hatsuharu was a doll and sometimes much-needed comic relief, and contrasted strangely yet beautifully with tormented Ren. Playful and adorable Momiji was my favorite (although it might've been simply because I'm a Rabbit ;), with sweet and quiet Kisa as my extremely close second favorite (I would act exactly as Tohru did if I ever met her - with HUGS). Abrasive Hiro, once he grew up a little, made for a nice match for her. Rounding off the Sohma family were apologetic and comic-relief Ritsu, stone-faced and gentle Hatori, flamboyant and frustrating Ayame, passionate Kagura, and the mysterious Kureno. And that's just the Zodiac group! Also, and definitely not at the bottom, were Tohru's best friends, Hanajima and Uotani - their presence and stories lent a lot to the series, and without their support I don't think Tohru would've been able to help the Sohmas as she did. While quite the cast, don't be overwhelmed by the long list - they are worth getting to know, and love.

Conclusion: A fun but heart-wrenching story that made me laugh and cry. The series won the American Anime Award for Best Manga during its run, and for good reason. Whether you love manga or are just looking to get your feet wet in the genre, this is a series not to be missed.

Scribble Rating: 

4 of 5 Scribbles

What do YOU want to win?

So my ARC giveaway box is growing beyond its proportions (as in, there is also now a bag). This is, of course, good news for you, my wonderful Followers! It means a giveaway is at hand - a massive, month-long, Follower-only giveaway, which I will be holding next month. (Because when is a massive month-long giveaway not my answer to an overflowing giveaway box? ;)

But what titles to give away? I went through the box, trying to pick out just what you would want. But alas, I simply couldn't decide.

Then I thought...why not just ask you?

So here's the link to my giveaway shelf - take a look and comment below with the top three titles you want to see me give away next month. Then check back in December for a plethora of ARC giveaways featuring your top picks!

Giveaway Shelf

And don't forget to spread the word! Twitter, Facebook, blog, etc. Especially if there is a title you particularly want - encourage others to vote for it as well! ;)

The voting will be open this week only, so get your picks in while you can! I look forward to seeing what you choose! :)

Stacking the Shelves (11/23/13)

GIVEAWAY ALERT
I have TWO giveaways running right now:
#CCinthewild Giveaway 

I Need Your Help Giveaway!

Time for another Stacking the Shelves, hosted by Tynga's Reviews, where I share the books that I've added to my shelves this week.

• The Forsaken by Lisa M. Stasse (Pbk - Purchased Used) - Seemed like a pretty interested dystopian, so I decided to give it a shot.
• Beta by Rachel Cohn (ARC - Epic Librarian) - The premise sounds interesting. 
• The Boy on the Porch by Sharon Creech (ARC - Epic Librarian) - This actually looks like a really cute MG, so I'll give it a try.
• Avalon by Mindee Arnett (ARC - Publisher) - Had to trade my kingdom for it, but it'll be worth it! Major thanks to @EpicReads for hooking me up! <333

This Week on the Blog

Sunday The Sunday Post (11/17/13)
Monday Review: Scarlet by Marissa Meyer
Wednesday Waiting On Wednesday: The One by Kiera Cass
Friday The Friday Review (11/22/13)
Friday Fire & Flood: Exclusive Bonus Scene (& Giveaway!)

So what books did you add to your shelves this week?

Fire & Flood: Exclusive Bonus Scene (and Giveaway!)

We are three months from the release of Fire & Flood, and to celebrate Ms. Scott released an exclusive bonus scene featuring Harper Shaw, a minor character that Tella & Guy spend a great deal of time with in the story. You won't find this scene in the actual book, so enjoy!

-----     -----     -----

FIRE & FLOOD Bonus Scene

Harper Shaw, Minor Character

The Brimstone Bleed started four hours ago, give or take. I’ve traveled as far as necessary for now, put adequate distance between myself and the other Contenders. There will be plenty who travel without stopping, without making a plan.

Idiots.

Like the others, I don’t know anything about this race, only that I need the prize—the Cure—more than I need my own beating heart. I can still remember my mother’s words as I left our home.

“I don’t know where you think you’re going, Harper,” she said. “But you can’t just leave us like this. Not now.”

But I did leave. It’s not like I could tell her about the invitation. Or explain what would happen next. Because the truth was, I didn’t know. Two days ago, I was lounging on my bed, listening to Linkin Park and watching MTV on mute. Today, I’m here, in a jungle, fighting to save the most important person in my life.

A caw rips through the late afternoon, and the dense canopy overhead rustles. I breathe in the smell of rich, damp soil that is almost invigorating. The air is thick and damp and clings to my skin, and everywhere I look is a plant I’ve never seen before. The world is a canvas of purple vines and orange flowers and greenery that swallows the ground beneath my feet. It’s both horrific and captivating at once.

Every few seconds, I stop to swipe insects off my skin. It doesn’t bother me. I’m not the squeamish type. The only thing I’m worried about is the egg in my Brimstone Bleed issued bag. A Pandora, the device said. An animal that will help me win this competition. My heart roars in my chest when the bag against my hip stirs once again.

Now that we’re alone, I drop to my knees and remove the egg. When I see a prominent crack down the side, my entire body buzzes with anticipation. I’ve never had a pet before. Not a dog, not a cat…not even a goldfish. And now I’m supposed to travel with an animal that could potentially save my life and Lillian’s? It’s hard to absorb.

The egg cracks again, and I freeze. My hands hover over the iridescent shell, unsure of what to do. But this Pandora doesn’t need my help. It’s eager to escape its prison, eager to fulfill its destiny. I admire its tenacity already, but my stomach churns wondering what my Pandora will be like. Will it be ruthless? Endearing? Will it make it so that I don’t feel utterly alone?

The egg burst open and I fall back, a gasp escaping my throat. I glance around to ensure we are alone. And when I look back, my hands shaking, my eyes widening, I see it—

A feather. 

~     ~     ~     ~    ~

Title: Fire & Flood 

Author: Victoria Scott
Release Date: February 25, 2014
Publisher: Scholastic
Find It On: Goodreads

Summary:

A modern day thrill ride, where a teen girl and her animal companion must participate in a breathtaking race to save her brother's life—and her own. 

Tella Holloway is losing it. Her brother is sick, and when a dozen doctors can't determine what's wrong, her parents decide to move to Montana for the fresh air. She's lost her friends, her parents are driving her crazy, her brother is dying—and she's helpless to change anything.

Until she receives mysterious instructions on how to become a Contender in the Brimstone Bleed. It's an epic race across jungle, desert, ocean, and mountain that could win her the prize she desperately desires: the Cure for her brother's illness. But all the Contenders are after the Cure for people they love, and there's no guarantee that Tella (or any of them) will survive the race.

The jungle is terrifying, the clock is ticking, and Tella knows she can't trust the allies she makes. And one big question emerges: Why have so many fallen sick in the first place?

-----     -----     -----

What an awesome scene! I got some chills there at the end - can't wait for the book!! I keep telling myself it's only three months until the release, but right now it feels like a decade.

So what did you think of the bonus scene? Anxious for more? Then enter below for the chance to win a signed ARC of Fire & Flood from the author herself, and read it before its release! Good luck!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Want to become a V Mafia member and get a first peek at exclusive content from author Victoria Scott, like me? (C'mon, don't lie, you know you want to.) Find out how here!

The Friday Reads Review (11/22/13)

Welcome to The Friday Reads Review, a regular Friday segment where I share what I've been reading the past week! Want to join the Friday fun? Post your own Friday Reads Review on your blog, and then leave the link in the Comments below!

>> CURRENTLY READING <<

Blindsided by Natalie Whipple (Pbk)

Not as good as Transparent, but still a fun, flirty, and adventurous read!

>> JUST FINISHED <<

Bakuman vol. 20 by Ohba & Obata (Pbk)
And so Bakuman comes to a close. A fun and sweet ending to an interesting and entertaining series.


>> READING NEXT <<

Independent Study by Joelle Charbonneau (ARC)
I really enjoyed The Testing, so I look forward to seeing how the story continues!

So what are you reading this week?

Waiting On Wednesday: The One

Waiting on Wednesday is a weekly blogging event hosted by Breaking the Spine, in which one spotlights an upcoming release they are eagerly anticipating.

This week's pre-publication "can't-wait-to-read" selection is:

Title: The One

Author: Kiera Cass

Release Date: May 6, 2014

Summary (from Goodreads):

The Selection changed the lives of thirty-five girls forever. And now, the time has come for one winner to be chosen.

America never dreamed she would find herself anywhere close to the crown—or to Prince Maxon's heart. But as the competition approaches its end and the threats outside the palace walls grow more vicious, America realizes just how much she stands to lose—and how hard she'll have to fight for the future she wants.

From the very first page of The Selection, this #1 New York Times bestselling series has captured readers' hearts and swept them away on a captivating journey... Now, in The One, Kiera Cass delivers a satisfying and unforgettable conclusion that will keep readers sighing over this electrifying fairy-tale long after the final page is turned.

Why I'm Looking Forward To It: Finale to one of the best series I've ever read - can't wait to see how this amazing story ends!

So what book are you waiting on?

Review: Scarlet (Marissa Meyer)

Title: Scarlet
Series: Lunar Chronicles, Book 2
Author: Marissa Meyer
Publisher: Feiwel & Friends
Genre: Young Adult Dystopian Fairytale Retelling
Told: Third Person Multiple, Past Tense
Content Rating: Older Teen (violence, some gore, sensuality, scary situations)
Format Read: ARC (EpicLibrarian)
Find On: Goodreads
Purchase On: Amazon | B&N | TBD
Summary:

Cinder, the cyborg mechanic, returns in the second thrilling installment of the bestselling Lunar Chronicles. She's trying to break out of prison—even though if she succeeds, she'll be the Commonwealth's most wanted fugitive.

Halfway around the world, Scarlet Benoit's grandmother is missing. It turns out there are many things Scarlet doesn't know about her grandmother or the grave danger she has lived in her whole life. When Scarlet encounters Wolf, a street fighter who may have information as to her grandmother's whereabouts, she is loath to trust this stranger, but is inexplicably drawn to him, and he to her. As Scarlet and Wolf unravel one mystery, they encounter another when they meet Cinder. Now, all of them must stay one step ahead of the vicious Lunar Queen Levana, who will do anything for the handsome Prince Kai to become her husband, her king, her prisoner.

*          *          *

Three Words: Dystopian fairytale retelling.

Writing: The writing style felt like I was watching a television show instead of reading a book, which made it much more engrossing. Several new viewpoint characters were added, which caused things to feel a bit crowded, but with so much going on it couldn't be helped. Vivid description, realistic dialogue, and breakneck pacing made for an absorbing read.

Setting: This time, most of the story took place in France! It was a fresh and exotic yet familiar backdrop, and I loved every second. We also spent more time in New Beijing (China), and a bit orbiting Earth in a spaceship.

Story: The book follows two storylines (that of Cinder and Scarlet) separately from several different viewpoints. Cinder, having escaped prison and now on the run with another wanted criminal, must keep away from both Earth's authorities and the Lunar queen's minions as she struggles to decide if she will accept her destiny. Scarlet, at a loss after her grandmother's disappearance, joins up with mysterious stranger Wolf to find her and gets much more than she bargained for as she is thrown into a war for not only her life, but the freedom of two worlds. While not quite as good as Cinder for me due to the overabundance of viewpoint characters, Scarlet possessed all the originality and creativity of the first book and was a magnificent read. As with Cinder, not much came as a surprise, but that didn't detract from the story in any way.

Characters: The cast continues to grow, but each character remained unique and brimming with personality. Cinder was brilliant, resourceful, and unflinching to do whatever it took to keep herself safe, despite how she felt about who and what she was. I adored her - Best. Character. Ever. Prince Kai was back and completely out of his element and depth, as usual. But he struggled to do the best by his people, even when he had no options. Iko returned as well, and I was very happy to see her! Even if she wasn't quite the same.

Several new characters were added to the mix in Scarlet - such as Scarlet herself, a feisty and fierce young lady who was willing to do anything, go anywhere, to protect the ones she loved. (If she didn't love you, watch out.) I adored Wolf, who was stronger than anything but a little boy at heart. He was definitely just what Scarlet needed - and vice versa. Also introduced was Captain Thorne, a new ally for Cinder. Thief, ladies' man, and bit of a scoundrel, together with Iko he lightened any darker tones in the book.

Romantic Relationship: With Cinder on the run, she didn't have much time to think about Kai - while he was left with too much time to think about her. Worlds apart and unable to contact each other, it was impossible for their romance to go anywhere. So we had Scarlet and Wolf. While their characters lean heavily on the Red Riding Hood/Wolf story, I felt the romance was very Beauty & the Beast - aka my favorite fairytale romance of all time. It was sweet but had some passion too, and I look forward to its continuation in future books.

Series: This is Book 2 in the 4-book Lunar Chronicles series. It picks up right after the cliffhanger end of Book 1 (Cinder), and alas also ends on a cliffhanger. You can find my review of Cinder here. Book 3, Cress, releases February 2014.

Conclusion: Original, vivid, and engrossing, Scarlet was a stellar read. I can't recommend this series highly enough - and cannot wait to get my hands on Cress!

Scribble Rating: 

4.5 of 5 Scribbles

The Sunday Post (11/17/13)

The Sunday Post is a weekly meme hosted by Kimba @ Caffeinated Book Reviewer. It's a chance to share news - post a recap of the past week on your blog, share what's coming up on your blog for the week ahead, and showcase books and things you've received.

LAST WEEK ON THE BLOG

Monday  Review: Cinder (Marissa Meyer)
Tuessday   I Need Your Help Giveaway!
Wednesday   Waiting On Wednesday: Royally Lost by Angie Stanton
Friday   The Friday Reads Review (11/15/13)
Saturday {Nerd Blast} Must Love Otters

THIS WEEK ON THE BLOG

Monday   Review: Scarlet by Marissa Meyer
Wednesday   Waiting On Wednesday: The One
Friday   The Friday Reads Review (11/22/13)

GIVEAWAYS

ARC of Rump: The True Story of Rumpelstiltskin by Liesl Shurtliff (ends Tuesday!!)
Curtsies & Conspiracies Twitter Giveaway (#CCinthewild) (charm bracelet)
I Need Your Help Giveaway! (ARC from Giveaway Shelf)

{Nerd Blast} Must Love Otters

 

Welcome to the Official Nerd Blast for 

Must Love Otters by Eliza Gordon!

Hollie Porter is the chairwoman of Generation Disillusioned: at twenty-five years old, she’s saddled with a job she hates, a boyfriend who’s all wrong for her, and a vexing inability to say no. She’s already near her breaking point, so when one caller too many kicks the bucket during Hollie’s 911 shift, she cashes in the Sweethearts’ Spa & Stay gift certificate from her dad and heads to Revelation Cove, British Columbia. One caveat: she’s going solo. Any sweethearts will have to be found on site.

Hollie hopes to find her beloved otters in the wilds of the Great White North, but instead she’s providing comic relief for staff and guests alike. Even Concierge Ryan, a former NHL star with bad knees and broken dreams, can’t stop her from stumbling from one (mis)adventure to another. Just when Hollie starts to think that a change of venue doesn’t mean a change in circumstances, the island works its charm and she starts to think she might have found the rejuvenation she so desperately desires. But then an uninvited guest crashes the party, forcing her to step out of the discomfort zone where she dwells and save the day … and maybe even herself in the process.

Goodreads     Amazon     Barnes & Noble

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Eliza Gordon is a forgetful girl who relies on Post-It notes and cellphone alarms to get her through the day. An avid eater of cookies, she can be found with her hand in the jar when not in her cubicle. A purveyor of fictions, Eliza is confident that the life she lives in merely the imaginings of someone else's hand, poured from a dull pencil on cafe napkins, and that she is simply an understudy, waiting for her turn to take the stage. She has excellent taste in books, shoes, and friends, and questionable sanity in the realm of love. Best leave that one alone.

In real life, she's a husband-and-wife team of controlled chaos who writes stories to help you believe in the Happily Ever After.

Websites: Eliza Gordon / Jennifer Sommersby

Twitter     Facebook     Pinterest

GIVEAWAY

a Rafflecopter giveaway

The Friday Reads Review (11/15/13)

I have THREE giveaways going on right now! 

Check the Current Giveaways on the sidebar for the links!

Welcome to The Friday Reads Review, a regular Friday segment where I share what I've been reading the past week! Want to join the Friday fun? Post your own Friday Reads Review on your blog, and then leave the link in the Comments below!

>> CURRENTLY READING <<

Bakuman vol. 20 by Ohba & Obata (Pbk)

The last volume! *sob* Halfway through and loving the wrap-up!

>> JUST FINISHED <<

Pawn by Aimée Carter (ARC)
An easy read with lots of action that kept my interest and yet was less than stellar in many areas. Review to come.


>> READING NEXT <<

Avalon by Mindee Arnett (ARC)
I had to trade my kingdom for the ARC, but Firefly meets White Cat? I needed this book more than air.

So what are you reading this week?

Waiting on Wednesday: Royally Lost

Waiting on Wednesday is a weekly blogging event hosted by Breaking the Spine, in which one spotlights an upcoming release they are eagerly anticipating.

This week's pre-publication "can't-wait-to-read" selection is:

Title: Royally Lost

Author: Angie Stanton

Release Date: May 6, 2014

Summary (from Goodreads):

Dragged on a family trip to Europe’s ancient cities, Becca wants nothing more than to go home. Trapped with her emotionally distant father, over-eager stepmother, and a brother who only wants to hook up with European hotties, Becca is miserable. That is until she meets Nikolai, a guy as mysterious as he is handsome. And she unknowingly finds herself with a runaway prince.

Nikolai has everything a guy could ask for-he's crown prince, heir to the throne, and girls adore him. But the one thing he doesn't have...is freedom. Staging a coup, he flees his kingdom and goes undercover on his own European tour.

When Nikolai and Becca meet, it’s their differences that draw them together. Sparks fly as they share a whirlwind of adventures, all the while dodging his royal guard. But Becca's family vacation ends in a matter of days. Will Nikolai and Becca be forced to say goodbye forever, will his destiny catch up to him, or will they change history forever?

Why I'm Looking Forward To It: This will be such a fun summer read next year! Yes, the plot has been done before (many, many times), but there are some that just never get old - and this is one of them. I wish I had this book right now!

So what book are you waiting on?

I Need Your Help Giveaway!

I have a special Twitter giveaway going on this month to celebrate the release of one of my favorite books, Curtsies & Conspiracies.

Curtsies & Conspiracies Twitter Giveaway (#CCinthewild)

The giveaway has been running a week now, but I have yet to receive a single entry. T-T I know it's a little more work than a normal giveaway, but I thought it would be fun for fans of the series to show some love for the book and the author! But alas, I think my blog is still a little too small for the word to get around.

So I need you. Help me spread the word about my #CCinthewild giveaway, and let's see if we can stir up at least one entry! And to show my gratitude, you can enter below to win an ARC from my Giveaway Shelf!

You can enter three times a day below, so the more you Tweet and spread the word, the better your odds! And if I get over 100 entries, I'll choose two winners!

(This giveaway is US only - apologies to my International Followers! Must be 13 years or older to enter.)

Major thanks in advance for your help spreading the word - you guys are the best! <33

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Review: Cinder (Marissa Meyer)

Title: Cinder
Series: Lunar Chronicles, Book 1
Author: Marissa Meyer
Publisher: Feiwel & Friends
Genre: Young Adult Dystopian Fairytale Retelling
Told: Third Person Multiple, Past Tense
Content Rating: Teen (violence, scary situations)
Format Read: Hardcover (library)
Find On: Goodreads
Purchase On: Amazon | B&N | TBD
Summary:

Humans and androids crowd the raucous streets of New Beijing. A deadly plague ravages the population. From space, a ruthless lunar people watch, waiting to make their move. No one knows that Earth’s fate hinges on one girl. 

Cinder, a gifted mechanic, is a cyborg. She’s a second-class citizen with a mysterious past, reviled by her stepmother and blamed for her stepsister’s illness. But when her life becomes intertwined with the handsome Prince Kai’s, she suddenly finds herself at the center of an intergalactic struggle, and a forbidden attraction. Caught between duty and freedom, loyalty and betrayal, she must uncover secrets about her past in order to protect her world’s future.

*          *          *

Three Words: Dystopian fairytale retelling.

Writing: It felt like I was watching a television show, not reading a book. I consider this a great feat of writing, because I can become quite engrossed in a good TV show - and I most certainly was with this book. The story didn't follow just the main characters, but focused on whoever had the best viewpoint of the story at that moment. Usually I don't like this, but the story was so engrossing I barely noticed. The description was gritty and vivid, and the dialogue realistic yet never a word felt wasted.

Setting: Instead of introducing us to yet another dystopic America, we were instead dropped into China. China. For once, the U.S. was nothing more than another country in the background, and it felt good to be somewhere new and exotic for a change. Fresh yet familiar, I enjoyed every second.

Story: There are quite a lot of fairytale retellings out there, but Cinder is in a league all its own. Every familiar character was remolded and reborn as someone more real and human - even if they were part cyborg, or possessed "magical" powers. The dystopian world was unlike any I've come across before (and I read a lot of dystopian), and although not exactly a realistic future for our world, it felt tangible - and magical. Every aspect of this book shone with originality and creativity, and it was a wonder to behold. I will say the book's big surprise came as no surprise to me whatsoever, but that didn't ruin the story in the slightest.

Characters: Cinder was strong, capable, and caring, despite the mountain of things set against her - her family, her status as a cyborg, the uncertainty of her entire world. She had every right to act selfishly, but in the end she always did what she thought was right for those she loved. She was someone to root for, and I reveled in doing so. Prince Kai was a bit on the wimpy side for me, but considering the mountain of crap he was going through, he really couldn't be blamed. He was struggling to do the best that he could by his country, and that takes a lot of courage. Iko was adorable and I loved her so - she only made an awesome book even better. Peony was a sweet girl and gave Cinder something to really care for, balancing out evil step-sister Pearl. As for Cinder's stepmother, as far as I'm concerned, evil Queen Levana had nothing on her.

Romantic Relationship: A slow and sweet build to not much of anything - yet. The romance is a very minor plot thread, but the book does not suffer for it. It was so refreshing to read a story that didn't revolve around a romance.

Series: This is Book 1 in a 4-book series, and ends on a cliffhanger. I was very happy I had Book 2 (Scarlet) on hand!

Conclusion: I devoured this book. A brilliant and original story in the fairytale retelling niche, with relatable characters, an amazing world, and a stellar plot. I definitely recommend it to everyone.

Scribble Rating: 

5 of 5 Scribbles