The Silver Blade by Sally Gardner

Summary

As the French Revolution descends into nightmare, Yann Margoza, a mysterious and extraordinary practitioner of magic, uses his skills to help spirit refugees out of France. If he fails, their fates lie under the blade of the guillotine. But the question of Yann's true identity and the kidnapping of his true love, Sido, expose him to dangers that threaten to destroy him. With Paris on the verge of collapse, Yann must summon all his strength and courage to rescue his beloved Sido and outwit the devil's own--this time for good.

Number of pages: 362

Review

My dear Sally Gardner has done it again with this amazing and extremely vivid telling of the French Revolution. Last time we left Yann and Sido to those times of Terror, Sido was safely deposited in England while Yann used his super duper gypsy powers to smuggle all kinds of people from the bloody lands of France into England. So it seems Yann has a secret reputation as the Silver Blade, but he doesn’t take much notice after mooning over Miss Sido who it seems isn’t answering his latest letter. Of course many of the original characters are in this new story. It really does complete the story of Yann and Sido. I was really excited to read it, though I find it hard to say which book is better The Red Necklace or The Silver Blade. Very tough decision indeed.

You do need a good attention span, though, because there is a very good chance that you might get lost a bit. There are so many twits and turns in this novel, and while those are what make a good story, there are times where getting “lost” in a story might not be a good thing.

The history part was very interesting. I can’t say that I know much of the French Revolution, but from what I read here I think it was accurate. It was really intriguing especially about how people escaped the country. The measures they took were incredible. But hey, to find out the tricked their way out, you’ll just have to read the book. So taking all that into consideration . . . from 1-10? I give The Silver Blade a 6.

Anastasia's Secret by Susanne Dunlap

Summary

For Anastasia Romanov, life as the privileged daughter of Russia’s last tsar is about to be torn apart by the bloodshed of revolution. Ousted from the imperial palace when the Bolsheviks seize control of the government, Anastasia and her family are exiled to Siberia. But even while the rebels debate the family’s future with agonizing slowness and the threat to their lives grows more menacing, romance quietly blooms between Anastasia and Sasha, a sympathetic young guard she has known since childhood. But will the strength of their love be enough to save Anastasia from a violent death?

Inspired by the mysteries that have long surrounded the last days of the Romanov family, Susanne Dunlap’s new novel is a haunting vision of the life—and love story—of Russia’s last princess.

Number of pages: 327

Review

Here is a good dose of historical fiction for you. I find that writing about a historic event or time isn’t as hard as writing about a person in history, I mean, what have you got to work with? What has been known about the person? Rumors of what could have happened in their lives? And then to write about that person in first person, to write the feelings that they might have had or their thoughts on this or that subject. I would think it takes more than a bit of imaginations and common sense to fill in the blanks. And then to make it interesting! I’d say that’s no small job! So what’s that got to say about Susanne Dunlap’s book Anastasia’s Secret? She nailed the facts and history part. It was informative, but definitely not boring. it was funny because a week after I finished the book, I was in history class when we started to learn about World War I and how the Russians affected a great deal of the events. I had already learned basically everything from this book. It talked a great deal about the conditions of the poor, and how bad the army was going into the war by sending in really you boys to fight when most had never even worn a pair of shoes before—which is where Sasha comes in.

I really loved taking a look through Anastasia’s eyes. The book tells her story from a little girl with a curiosity that may not be all that favorable to a Grand Duchess, up until her time as a young woman in the fate of those who wish harm on her, and her loved ones. So maybe it’s not the traditional way most thought of the youngest grand duchess, but I think it is a new refreshing way to look at her life story. It gives Grand Duchess Anastasia, who I always thought of as a rich girl with an unfortunate life, personality and depth. From 1-10? Anastasia’s Secret gets a 6.5

Chasing Brooklyn by Lisa Schroeder

Summary

Restless souls and empty hearts.

Brooklyn can’t sleep. Her boyfriend, Lucca died a year ago, and now their friend Gabe has died of an overdose. Every time she closes her eyes, Gabe's ghost is there, waiting for her. She has no idea what he wants or why it isn't Lucca chasing her through her dreams.

Nico can’t stop. He’s always running, trying so hard not to feel the pain of missing Lucca. But when he begins receiving messages from his dead brother, telling him to help Brooklyn, emotions come crashing to the surface.

As the nightmares escalate and the messages become relentless, Nico reaches out to Brooklyn. But neither of them can admit that they're being haunted. Until they learn to let each other in, not one soul will be able to rest.

Number of Pages: 412

Review

First thing that I want to point out to you all is that this entire story is in the form of poetry. If there is one thing that bothers me is that when you read about how great a book is online, and you get it only to find that the book you ordered is in a completely different form than what you thought! Like getting for instance—I don’t know—a comic book (yes that has actually happened to me, you can imagine my disappointment). So when I read online about this really touching story of two grieving teenagers, and get it only to find that it isn’t a novel, but a bunch of poems, I thought of the comic book incident and got mad. But after my first initial feeling of annoyance, I figured I should give this book a try. I was impressed. This was the first poetry story that I read, and I liked it so much that it is most likely that it will not be the last. So I am giving you this information up front so that no one gets surprised. But I also want you to consider doing something new and maybe choose this story to read. Nico and Brooklyn are both grieving, both confused, and both being haunted, but by different spirits. Brooklyn is being full out haunted with nightmares, and sleepless nights by her friend, Gabe. Nico on the other hand isn’t being haunted so much, more like getting messages from his brother pushing him a bit to help the girlfriend he left behind, Brooklyn.

I loved the way poems keep everything honest, straight to the point. But if you are going to write a story completely created from poems, then it has to be done right. Chasing Brooklyn was done right. If the first poetry book I read was poorly created I can guarantee that I would be extremely hesitant to read another one. This book was sweet, sad, hopeful, and so many more emotions that connect the dots of these two people and their steps of letting go and finding love and comfort in one another. From 1-10? I am proud to give this book an 8.

Coming Soon

Hellooo there people! Ok, I realize I am EXTREMELY behind on my posts . . . sorry about that. Who would think that school took up so much time? Well, it does -.- and not to mention that I have this problem with reading a book, and jumping to the next before I can write my thoughts down (or time to breathe). I really shouldn't do that, but here are some book that I have read recently, currently reading, or planning on reading in the next, ooooh I'd say, week or so.

1. A Map of the Unknown World by Lisa Ann Sandell
2. Never Cry Werewolf by Heather Davis
3. The Twin's Daughter by Lauren Baratz-Logsted
4. Fire by Kristin Cashore
5. The Silver Blade by Sally Gardner
6. Anastasia's Secret by Susanne Dunlap
7. Chasing Brooklyn by Lisa Schroeder
8. I am Remembrant's Daughter by Lynn Cullen
9. To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee

Now that I have it written down I feel the need to speed things up a bit so expect these soon. Time to get down to the books!

Num8ers by Rachel Ward

Summary

Since the day her mother did, Jem has known about the numbers.

Numberes that pop into her head when she looks into someone’s eyes. They’re dates, the numbers. Dates predicting with brute accuracy each person’s death.

Burdened by such grim knowledge, Jem avoids relationships. Until she meets Spider, another outsider, and takes a chance. Maybe they can find happiness together, if only in the brief time that remains before his expiration date. But on a trip to London, Jem forsees a chilling chain of events.

The city’s a target.

The clock;s running out.

The countdown is on to a blowup.

Number of pages: 325

Review

Just like the cover, this story is intense. From the very beginning actually. Jem has the unfortunate circumstance of having the knowledge of everyone’s death in her head. She just has to look at them in the eye and the numbers that flash in her head are the dates of their last day. She hates it, and fears it which makes her to keep those around her at arms length, so as not to care when eventually the numbers come true and they are taken from her. Living on the fringes of society, she is a loner until the day that she starts to make a friend in the equally lonely, but much more jumpy and excited, Spider. This is their adventure of running from the law when they are suspected of being terrorists when seen leaving an attack moments before, finding a true and unique love in each other, and Jem trying to figure out a way to save Spider from his number that's in her head that is fast approaching.

Like I said this book is very intense. I don’t mean it in the “action in every corner” sort of way; it’s more of a “brings out your emotions” sort of way. That doesn’t mean it is not a good book, it just means that this is a tough book to swallow if you are looking for a happy ending. I will admit it, I cried. This book got me so frustrated! Yet, it was good enough that I couldn’t put it down until I knew how a unique book like this could end. I was expecting a little more action and excitement from what I read from the summary, but otherwise it was good. The ending was the most exciting part in this book. So from 1-10? I give Num8ers a 5.5.

Firelight by Sophie Jordan

Summary

A HIDDEN TRUTH.

MORTAL ENEMIES.

DOOMED LOVE.

Marked as special at an early age, Jacinda knows her every move is watched. But she longs for freedom to make her own choices. When she breaks the most sacred tenet among her kind, she nearly pays with her life. Until a beautiful stranger saves her. A stranger who was sent to hunt those like her. For Jacinda is a draki—a descendant of dragons whose greatest defense is her secret ability to shift into human for.

Forced to flee into the mortal world with her family, Jacinda struggles to adapt to her surroundings. The only bright light is Will. Gorgeous, elusive Will who stirs her inner draki to like. Although she is irresistibly drawn to him, Jacinda knows Will’s dark secret: He and his family are hunters. She should avoid him at all costs. But her inner draki is slowly slipping away—if it dies she will be left as human forever. She’ll do anything to prevent that. Even if it means getting closer to her most dangerous enemy.

Mythical powers and breathtaking romance ignite in this story of a girl who defies all expectations and whose love crosses an ancient divide.

Number of Pages: 323

Summary

Dragons are something completely new to me, but from what I’ve read from Firelight I find them awesome. Ok, so from the beginning: a draki colony, who are descendants of dragons, have a rare draki in their midst. Jacinda is the only fire-breathing draki. Now I know that when people think “dragon” they automatically think of fire, but apparently in this story the fire-breathers are not common at all. Jacinda of course has to break one of their biggest rules, which eventually leads her mother to make the decision to take her and her twin sister away from the others and fling them in the real world in a whirlwind. You think that what her mother was trying to do was good, but at the cost of killing Jacindas draki spirit? Seems kind of harsh to me. Still, Jacinda starts to learn that the other drakis aren’t what she always thought they were, and her family doesn’t understand her at all. So when handsome and extremely off limits, Will, comes into the picture she discovers that he is the only thing in that godforsaken desert that can keep her draki alive, but at the cost of revealing the ultimate secret of drakis everywhere. Or will her love for Will overcome the fact that she is a draki and he and his family hunts them? Oh did I forget to mention that? Well yeah, he is a draki hunter. Go figure right. But of course he is a good guy so not to worry!

I found this book to be interesting, and captivating. I find it very entertaining that instead of blushing when her crush comes in like other girls, she starts to breathe fire. Honestly I can’t wait for the next book. The characters were nicely created, and the setting was very descriptive. I could feel when the heat of that desert drained the moisture from Jacinda’s skin trying to kill her draki. The romance was touched on nicely, and unlike most books where the girl flings herself at the guys, Jacinda tries to keep him away. Even though that technique doesn’t exactly work out it is still and interesting twist. So from 1-10? I give this book an 8! Not bad, eh?

Fallen by Lauren Kate

Summary

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 Sword & Cross boarding school in Savannah. He’s the one bright spot in a place where cell phones are forbidden, the other students are screw-ups, and security cameras watch every move.

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

Dangerously exciting and darkly romantic, FALLEN is a page-turning thriller and the ultimate love story.

Number of Pages: 452

Review

Have you ever had that moment when you spot someone that you know, but have no freaking clue who they are or how you know them? I know i have. This story is about a troubled girl named Luce that has one of the BIGGEST déjà voo moments ever when she is sent to Sword & Cross reform school, and meets the mysterious, cold, and extremely familiar Daniel Grigori. Drawn to him from the start, Luce tries to get to know him more. When Daniel clearly shows that he is not interested Luce obviously has to start snooping a bit to find out what is this guys problem! What she begins to discover doesn’t even come close to what she could ever have thought of. Of course there is also friendly, handsome Cam. It is clear that he’s into her from the start, and she likes him. Really she does, but is what she feeling for Cam enough to trample the feelings she has for Daniel? With the help of her fellow semi-crazy reform school friends, she is out to sort out her feelings and choose between easy and safe, or intense and longing?

This romance story is unconventional . . . and attention grabbing. Turning away from the clichés of paranormal romances, I loved how in the beginning Daniel wanted nothing to do with Luce at first. It was intriguing, and so frustrating! I guess that is why I considered Fallen a good read. It brings out your reaction easily. Of course my favorite part of the books—the characters—were so created so good. They were people I liked from the start yet complex in their own ways. There was a time somewhere around the middle of the book that slowed to a crawl. I admit that the excitement wore off a bit in that section. That did make me take off a point or two from me absolutely loving this book. Of course when I pushed through that part the ending was good. I was a tiny bit confused at the end because of the epilogue, but the ending is enough to make me want to read the next book. I also just want to note that the cover came out so amazing. Loved it! Well now to tally up the points I have to say that from 1-10? I give this book a . . . 7.5!

Accomplice by Eireann Corrigan

Summary:

They’ve gotten good grades—but that’s not good enough. They’ve spent hours on community service—but that’s not good enough. Finn and Chloe’s advisor says that colleges have enough kids with good grades and perfect attendance, so Chloe decides they’ll have to attract attention another way. She an Finn will stage Chloe’s disappearance, and them when CNN is on their doorstep and the nation is riveted, Finn will find and save her. Is seems like the perfect plan—until things start to go wrong. Very wrong.

I was supposed to be a victimless crime. Finn was supposed to be the good accomplice, and Chloe was supposed to be the hidden object of attention. But when things intensify, situations become more and more extreme . . . and what once seemed victimless isn’t so innocent anymore.

• Number of Pages: 296

Review

Ok this is going to be a short review because, well, I didn’t like it. I’ll start from the beginning. I got this book because it sounded like a good mystery, and, too be honest, the cover looked pretty cool. It looks like that saying about not judging a book by its cover is correct because it turned out to be nothing like I thought it would be. Finn and Chloe irritate me to death. Chloe is sick thinking about this whole scheme, and stupid when it comes to thinking something through and doing the right thing. Finn is the brainless friend that goes along with Chloe no matter what. She takes the "if-you-were-told-to-jump-off-a-bridge-would-you-do-it" to a whole new leave. I couldn’t stand them. The thought that pretending to disappear is too weird. And on the other hand, the story became boring after a while. I got sick of it after about 90 pages into the book. I didn’t like the sequence of how things worked either I got confused at times. In the end, I never finished the whole book. So from 1 to 10 I am giving it a 1. Sorry, but that’s it.

A Cat Royal Adventure: The Diamond of Drury Lane by Julia Golding

Summary

READER,

You are set to embark on an adventure about one hidden treasure, two bare-knuckle boxers, three enemies, and four hundred and thirty-eight rioters. It is told by an ignorant and prejudiced author—me.

She’s Cat Royal, four foot four with long red hair and not a penny to call her own. She lives in the Theatre Royal on Drury Lane, a place filled with dramatic characters, theatrical spectacles, and now, a secret treasure. Follow her into the streets of London, facing danger and adventure, to be the first to discover the diamond!

Number of pages: 419

Review

Julia Golding’s writing is pure gold (<-- hehehe get it? Pun intended!) She is amazing. The Cat Royal Adventure Series is one of my absolute favorites! I mean what’s not to like about them? The characters are beautifully created, the setting is rough and exciting, the inside look into one of the roughest, toughest place in London is thrilling, and it is all directed by one witty and feisty Miss Cat Royal. Cat is one of the best narrators ever! She’s funny, sarcastic, and never says no to a challenge. She is the heart of the story. All the characters are amazing, even that big bad Billy "Boil" Shepherd. The setting is fascinating, you get to weave through backstage and experience the heart of the theatre. It’s crazy in there, let me tell you. Let Cat lead you on a whirlwind adventure that will keep you occupied until you can get your hands on the next Cat Royal book. From 1-10 this book, and series for that matter, deserves a 9!

Mini reviews for the rest of this series books out so far (I'll try to review without any spoilers!):

• Cat Among the Pigeons-book 2 in this series is very dramatic. Out of all of them I think this one has the most suspense, but that doesn't mean Cat's wicked sense of humor is diminished.
• Den of Thieves: I really enjoyed Den of Thieves, book 3 in this series. Cat is getting older, and is branching out on her own. . . maybe even getting a few beaus ;). She has a new assignment. There are disguises, secrets, and spies everywhere, and Cat's got her hands full in this book! I think this is one of my favorites in this series!
• Cat O'Nine Tails: Cat Royal's life has been quiet for a while, but of course that can't last long. She is in a dangerous struggle to save her best friends life. She has to use her wit to free her friends from being held captive on His Majesty's ship, and land on her feet-- without getting too wet. (;

9/11 Tribute

No words could possibly describe or express what happened to America nine years ago on this day. Even so, writers and poets have done their best to express everyone's devastating loss for the people that were killed, and the loved ones they left behind. I wish to honor everyone's sacrifices on this day with some lovely poetry that I hope will give you a sense of peace, understanding, and will help us to remember. These are written by all kinds of people, but in the end we are all the same in our grief.

The Day The Towers Fell

A sad day for America
 As rejoicing rang from hell,
 Awakening a mighty giant
 On the day the towers fell.

Our hearts were saddened
 As we watched this vicious act unfold,


As innocence met a fiery death
 And seeds of war were sowed.

Shouts rang out from the middle east
 That Allah has done his good


But no god joys in faultless deaths
 through certain cowards could.

America just sort of glides along,
 But don't step on her toes ...
For her belief in right and justice
Will stomp out freedom's foes.

~ Author Unknown ~

Well you hit the World Trade Center, but you missed America


You hit the Pentagon, 
Again you missed America


You used helpless American bodies to take out other American bodies,


but like a poor marksman, you still missed America

Why? Because of somethings you guys will never understand


America isn't about a building or two,

not about financial centers

not about military centers


America isn't about a place,

American isn't about a bunch of bodies


America is about an IDEA.

An idea that you can go someplace where you can earn as much as you can figure out how to,

live for the most part, like you envisioned living, and pursue Happiness

(no guarantees that you'll reach it, but you can sure try)!

-Anonymous-

As the soot and dirt and ash rained down,


We became one color.


As we carried each other down the stairs of the burning building


We became one class.


As we lit candles of waiting and hope


We became one generation.


As the firefighters and police officers fought
their way into the inferno


We became one gender.


as we fell to our knees in prayer for strength


We became one faith.

As we whispered or shouted words of encouragement,


We spoke one language.


As we gave our blood in lines a mile long,


We became one body.


As we mourned together the great loss


We became one family.


As we cried tears of grief and loss


We became one soul


As we retell with pride of the sacrifice of heroes


We became one people.

- Unknown Author

NEVER FORGET

The End of Publishing Video

Ever get those days when there is nothing you want to read at the moment, and you are too lazy to get up and do something. Yea, well, I was having one of those days. I was in bed surfing through the web when I came upon this video, and thought it was so good. It opened my mind, and I am pretty sure that it will do the same for you. What is said here is a radical concept to those who think that books and reading can be replaced with t.v., video games, and whatever else technology is shoving at us every couple of months to occupy our time. Well it can't substitute literature! Now you must watch the ENTIRE thing to understand it completely. So click play, and enjoy! :)

The Reluctant Heiress Eva Ibbotson

Summary

Being an heiress in 1920s Austria with nothing but a broken-down castle to your name and nary a penny in your purse could be frustrating for anyone but the Princess Theresa-Maria of Pfaffenstein. Tessa, however, is thrilled with her situation, as it allows her to concentrate on her love of the arts—and no one in the Viennese opera company need know that their delightful and charming under-wardrobe mistress is really a princess, but when the dashing self-made millionaire Guy Farne arrives at the opera in search of suitable entertainment for his high society guests, Tessa realized that there may be more to life—and love—than just music. And while the attraction between them is undeniable, Guy’s insufferable snob of a fiancée only solidifies Tessa’s determination to keep her true identity a secret. Yet, after a chance meeting with the handsome Englishman, Tessa’s reserve begins to melt, and she starts to wonder if it’s too late for a fairy-tale ending.

• Number of pages: 325

Review

This is a hard review for me. I am not exactly sure why that would be because I dove through this book in like three days max and I love all of the books by Eva Ibbotson. Ibbotson’s stories always have that affect on me: I love them, but they are hard to describe. But I will do my best so here it goes.

The characters Ibbotson creates in her stories are so interesting to read about, if not a bit unrealistic. Their characteristics and personalities are exaggerated a bit, but not that it’s not fun to read. My personal preference in a book is clean no-nonsense writing that has plenty of dialogue. Eva Ibbotson is a writer that I would put in the category of “flowery writing”, but she writes the stories so well that I can't help loving it. Her plots are always interesting romances that one would read when they are in the mood to live out a fairytale love story. Whether the attraction is thwarted by a vile fiancé (like it is in this story) or that the love can’t flourish because of a stupid misunderstanding by a one of the characters, the stories are captivating. I couldn’t help but worry when Guy gave Tessa the cold shoulder. Or find myself amused with the little boy who loved Tessa so much. I always felt some type of emotion throughout the book. What’s good is that Eva finds a way at the end to make every situation come together in a happy ending that always has a little surprising twist at the end. I would absolutely recommend people to read The Reluctant Heiress, but you have to give it your best try and let the story turn naturally and smoothly through your mind. From 1-10? I would give this lovely story a 7.5.

The Warrior Heir by Cinda Williams Chima

Summary

Before he knows about the roses, sixteen-year-old jack lived an unremarkable like in the small Ohio town of Trinity. Only the medicine he has to take daily and the thick scar above his heart set him apart from the other high schoolers. Then one day Jack skips his medicine. Suddenly, he is stronger, fiercer, and more confident than ever before, and it feels great until he loses control of his own strength and nearly kills another player during soccer team tryouts.

Soon, jack learns the startling truth about himself: he is Weirlind, part of an underground society of magical people who live among us. At their helm sits the feuding houses of the Red Rose and the Whir Rose, whose power is determined by playing the Game—a magical tournament in which each house sponsors a warrior to fight to the death, the winning house rules the Weir.

As if his bizarre heritage isn’t enough, Jack finds out that he’s not just another member of Weirlind---he’s one of the last of the warriors---at a time when both houses are scouting for a player.

• Number of pages: 426

Review

I chose to read this book because I felt like I was reading too many girly books with female leads. I needed a good guy character to change things up a bit! This book was just the story to read for guys mainly. The whole concepts of magical people and such have become popular of late, but The Warrior Heir is completely different and original from all others. Granted, it was difficult to wrap my mind around all the terms and follow along without confusing a "Weir" with "guilds" and such. It slowed considerably in the middle of the story, but the ending was satisfactory enough. The Game and what it stands for is quite unsettling and gruesome. This book was interesting for the most part has bursts of good fast-paced action and from 1 to 10? I have to give this a 6.

Guardian of the Gate by Michelle Zink

Summary

As sixteen-rear-old Lia Milthorpe searches for a way to end the prophecy that has divided her family for generations, her twin sister, Alice, works to hone the skills shell need to defeat Lia. Alice will stop at nothing to reclaim her sister’s role in the prophecy, and that’s not the only thing she wants. There’s also Lia’s beloved, James.

The sisters always knew that the prophecy would turn those closest to them against them. But they didn’t know what betrayal could lead them to do.

In the end, only one sister will be standing.

Number of pages: 340

Review

Lia’s story is intense. Guardian of the Gate is the 2^nd book in the Prophecy of the Sisters trilogy. In this book Lia is on a journey to find the last two keys and the missing pages of the prophecy. This is a story filled with mystery, passion, determination, and betrayal. I just wanted to cry some parts while at other times I was so frustrated at how hopeless it all seemed. I really enjoyed this book. This is better than the first book, Prophecy of the Sisters, and I didn’t think that was even possible. This is not a mystery with clues, but with suspense, which I found thrilling. You never know whom you can trust in this story and that keeps you on the edge of your seat. I had to reread this book again once I finished it, like watching a movie mystery and keeping an eye out for any little tidbits of clues you might have missed and finding yourself at the ending just as shocked and thrilled from the last time you read it. From 1 to the desirable 10? I give this book a . . . 8.

Prophecy of the Sisters by Michelle Zink

Summary

Twin sisters Lia and Alice Milthorope have just become orphans. They have also become enemies. As they discover their roles in a prophecy that has turned generations of sisters against each other, they find themselves entangles in a mystery that involves a tattoo-like mark, their parents’ deaths, a boy a book, and a lifetime of secrets.

Lia and Alice don’t know whom they can trust. They just know they cat trust each other.

Number of pages: 343

Review

This story was awesome. I just finished this book and continued to the next in a matter of 5 minutes. I guess that it ends at a point where it's too difficult not to want to see what happens next. So these twin sisters have some family issues that you wouldn’t even imagine. It's told by Lia, who is obviously the good twin-while she starts to uncover an ancient prophecy-that involves her and her sister. She is the quieter one of the two, and the eldest (though by mere minutes I believe). Her story though kinda scary at times is complicated and I couldn’t put it down. Zink created the mystery so that it doesn't give away enough to guess the outcome, but won't tire you and leave you just waiting for an end to come. Now her sister Alice? She was just evil! Ugh! I just wanted to slap her at times, no joke. I really, really hope Lia kicks her butt in the end. This book had just the right amount of mystery and emotion that completely had me engrossed until the end. There were times that the story slowed, but it wasn’t to bad and the parts that were good were good. So from 1-10? I do believe I shall give it an . . . 8.

The Fool's Girl by Celia Rees

Summary

Young and beautiful Violetta is of noble blood, but her country is in shambles. She and her comic companion, Feste, have just arrived in London on a mysterious quest. Their journey has been long and their misfortunes many, but it is not until they encounter the playwright William Shakespeare that the whole story is reveled. Violetta and Feste are in search of an ancient holy relic-her country’s greatest treasure-that the evil Malvolio has stolen. Malvolio’s plot seems complex and wide reaching, but it’s not clear who else is involved . . . until Violetta’s childhood love, Stephan, enters the scene. Is this remarkable story a comedy or a tragedy? Spun from Shakespeare’s unproarious, Twelfth Night, Celia Rees has crafted a wholly original adventure that stretches from the shores of Illyria to the Forest of Arden, where romance and danger go hand in hand.

Number of pages: 287

Review

Shakespeare’s Twelfth Night is not a play I am actually familiar with, but this book kind of makes me want to know more about it. This book is like a “what-happened-after” story with Viola’s noble and beautiful daughter, Violetta. When her country’s most holy relic is stolen as well as her country, and she goes and tries to get it back. Because obviously the female lead needs some spunk and this one has it. Now add the really handsome boyfriend and a mischievous Fool and this story gets interesting. The plot was good, but I got confused at times. Rees wanted to make it seem like you never know who you can trust, but it got to the point where I was like “whaaaat???” I did really like all the characters. Especially how Rees incorporated Shakespeare (“Will”) in the whole book that helped to save the day. I never really thought to give Shakespeare a personality before, but I loved how he turned out here knowing how this loyal and, to be honest, stressed out guy really becomes extremely famous. The ending came suddenly. I was reading and was surprised to see the pages thinning when at the time it seemed like the story was going nowhere. It was a good ending, though a bit predictable. From 1- 10? All around I would have to give this a 6.

The Goose Girl by Shannon Hale

Summary

She was born with her eyes closed and a word on her tongue, a word she could not taste. Her name was Anidori-Kiladra Talianna Isilee, Crown Princess of Kildenree, and she spent the first years of her life listening to her aunt’s stories and learning the language of the birds, especially the swans. And when she was older, she watched as a colt was born, and she heard the first word on his tongue, his name, Falada.

From the Grimm’s fairy tale of the princess who became a goose girl before she could become queen, Shannon Hale has woven an incredible, original, and magical tale of a girl who must find her own unusual talents before she can lead the people she has made her own.

http://www.squeetus.com/stage/books_goose.htm

Number of pages: 383

Review

Fairy tales are great, aren’t they? Stories told to little children at night, those that are famous for there magic and such. Well, this is one of those but changed and created to be enjoyed by everyone. Well, at least I enjoyed it. Shannon Hale’s rendition of Grimm’s story of Goose Girl is unique from the original, but just as enjoyable. So this princess, Anidori-Kiladra Talianna Isilee (very pretty name by the way) has theses gifts that give her the language of animals, preferably birds, as well as the ability to speak to and control the wind. This whole concept Shannon Hale created with communicating with nature is incredible. Can you imagine it? Understanding the wind and its knowledge of what it’s seen, controlling of fire, knowing the first word of a foal and the squawk of a bird. I don’t know about you, but I think that would be awesome. And these abilities are formed so that is seems that it could be possible for all of it to happen. Actually, now that I think about it, these books are also considered fantasy. During the entire book the characters tell stories to each other, nursery stories and legends. Those tales are beautifully created. There was excitement throughout the story, but sometimes it was too stretched out for my taste. From 1-10? All in all I give this book a 7.

The Red Necklace by Sally Gardner

Summary

The winds of change are blowing through Paris in 1789, both for France and a mysterious Gypsy boy named Yann Margoza. He was born with a gift for knowing what people are thinking and an uncanny ability to throw his voice, skills he uses while working for a foolish magician. On the night of a special performance, he meets shy Sido, a lonely heiress with a cold-hearted father. Though they have the shortest of conversations, an attachment is born that will influence both their paths. While revolution is afoot in France Sido is being used as the pawn of the fearful villain Count Kalliovsky. Some have instead called him the devil; and only Yann, for Sido’s sake, will dare to oppose him.

Number of pages: 378

Review

Sally Gardner has done the amazing task of creating a historical fiction that I am sure will captivate anyone who is up for it. I, personally, love historical fiction books, but I am confident in saying that those of you who don’t like those types of books will love this French Revolution story. There’s action, magic, romance, mystery. What could be better? Some times it did get a little creepy and disturbing, what with beheading and such things. The people of France were quite gruesome at this stage of the Revolution. The characters were wonderfully created. You really got a sense of each essence of the characters. It gives you a look at those dark times in France from both an aristocratic point of view (Sido) and the point of view of Yann the Gypsy fellow with charming looks and amazing abilities. basically, this story was intriguing from start to finish. I can’t wait to read the sequel, The Silver Blade! From 1-10? I give this book a 8.

A Kiss in Time by Alex Flinn

Summary

Talia fell under a spell . . .
Jack broke the curse.

I was told to beware the accursed spindle, but it was so enchanting, so hypnotic . . .

I was looking for a little adventured the day I ditched my tour group. But finding a comatose town, with a hot-looking chick asleep in it, was so not what I had in mind . . .

I awakened in the same place but in another time–––to a stranger’s soft kiss . . .

I couldn’t help kissing her. Sometimes you just have to kiss someone. I didn’t know this would happen . . .

Now I am in dire trouble because my father, the king, says I have brought ruin upon our country. I have no choice but to run away with this commoner!

Now I’m stuck with a bratty princess and a trunk full of her jewels . . . The good news: My parents will freak!

Think you have dating issues? Try locking lips with a snoozing stunner who turns out to be 316 years old. Can a kiss transcend all---even time?

Number of pages: 385

Review

This was the first Alex Flinn book that I read. I found it really cute. It was like watching a romantic comedy movie. The story is a twist of a classic princess tale. My favorite part of the book had to be the dialogue between Jack and Talia. When you put a beautiful and spoiled princess with a partying teenage guy you get some problems, it was funny. I found myself chuckling at their conversations and thoughts about the other person. The author really jumped into the characters and gave them their own personalities. The whole book was in both Jack and Talia’s point of view. It’s a charming story with a nice happily ever. From 1-10? I give this book a 7.

A Curse Dark as Gold by Elizabeth C. Bunce

Summary

As Charlotte struggles to manage the difficulties she inherits along with Stirwaters Woollen Mill, she discovers a shadow world at the fringes of the familiar: Dark magic, restless spirits, a mysterious Helper. A wicked uncle, an age-old curse.... How can Charlotte prevail with such forces allied against her? In this novel inspired by “Rumpelstiltskin,” the miller’s daughter of the fairy tale comes to life as a young woman determined to save her family and her mill--whatever the cost.

http://www.elizabethcbunce.com/elizabethcbunce/Books.html

Number of pages: 395

Review

I decided to get this book when I saw all the good publicity it got. I got the book, sat down on my bed to begin, and was let down. I was disappointed to find that nothing of interest came out of that book until at least the first 95 pages, and considering that the whole story is a mystery and needs your full attention, I was lost. I don’t know exactly what it was, but I couldn’t pick up the book to continue with the story. I am the type of reader that can spend all day reading and won’t put the book away until the entire story is completed, but with this book it took me twice as long to even get through even half. I did take it up again because the thought that there could be a good story somewhere in there and that I wasn’t giving it chance made me trudge forward until the end. Besides, the story of Rumplestilskin has always fascinated me so I gave it a second chance. I quickly realized that the main character and the voice of the story was driving me crazy! I think that that was why I didn’t enjoy the book, because the person leading me through the story was so annoying. I kept think to myself of how much I want to get rid of that character. I did like some other characters though like Randall or Charlotte’s sister, they were cool. Now I must admit that there were parts that interested me like how the author took the original Rumplestiltskin and created a completely different story line with similar characteristics. Overall I don’t think I would pick that book up again. Lots of people apparently like it though. I didn’t. From 1-10? I give this book a 4.