I Won a Book!

Hello, hello!

I recently started using the website Goodreads. If you haven't been to the site yet, I encourage you to check it out! Whether you're looking for a book review, quotes, a list of books to peruse, or something else entirely, this place will not disappoint. At least, they haven't disappointed me yet! 

A couple of weeks ago, I discovered that they list giveaways. There are TONS of giveaways for *free books* every day. FREE. Some of these books are signed, some are relatively new, and some of these books are not even out yet! That's right. They call these gems, "Advenced Reader Copies" or ARC.

I was lucky enough to WIN 
an ADVANCED READER COPY of:

Empire Girls; 
by Suzanne Hayes & Loretta Nyhan. 

It arrived today and it is a beauty! I am in chapter two and I can't wait to get lost in it. It features two sisters in New York City during the roaring twenties. I have high hopes for this book and am looking forward to reviewing it for you. It is set to be released next month. 

If you want to win some books of your own, just go to Goodreads. Click the Explore tab, and that is where you will find Giveaways.

Have fun and good luck!

Melody

Under the Never Sky; by Veronica Rossi

Hello, I'm so glad you're with me for another book review. Today's book will be Under the Never Sky; it's the first book in the trilogy. A few weeks ago. I was on the hunt for something new to read and came across this book trailer on YouTube. If you know my by now, you know I judge books by their cover... literally. Do you see how gorgeous that cover is?

As always, coffee comes first. Let's get started.

What's in my cup?

Today I'm drinking a cup of good ol' regular Maxwell House coffee with French Vanilla creamer. It's nothing fancy, but it's just as perfect. What makes this cup of coffee so wonderful is the way I make it, I use this pour over brewing cone. Yummm. 

Book: Under the Never Sky; by Veronica Rossi

published in: 2012, USA

Summary without spoilers:
The world Aria knows is not real and she is beyond grateful for that. It's been generations since the the real world was a safe place to be.
Aria and her people live in the dweller pods where they are protected from the outside world. The life she knows is made up of simulated realms and virtual activities of every imaginable kind. Technology is so far advanced that people don't have to know fear, pain or sickness. They spend their days living vicariously through avatars without a second thought about it.

Everyone knows that outside, in the "real", there are a million ways to die: disease, cannibals, or even the unpredictable ether storms that drove her people into the pods generations ago are still a threat. But then Aria's mother goes missing and in a search to find answers, she finds herself suddenly banished from the pods into the real world. She finds herself begrudgingly allied to a savage outsider, fighting for her life against the forces of nature and discovering what is real.

Perry's seven year old nephew has been taken from his village by a group of dwellers; and Perry is the only one trying to bring him home. He finds Aria wandering aimlessly one night and decides that she might know something. The two do not like each other at all; but they make an alliance of sorts for the time being. They both need to get to the dweller pods; they both need to find people. They need each other.

Futuristic technology. Disease. Cannibals. Survival. Freaky sci-fi storms. Disdain. Love. Humor. Loyalty. Betrayal. Friendship. Under the Never Sky has it. .

What did I think of the main characters? 

Aria is bold, strong and determined. She isn't overtaken by the fact that she doesn't understand anything about the real world. She knows that she has to press on and learn, she grows and adapts with every circumstance that comes. I like Aria's headstrong determination to survive.

Perry is a born leader waiting for his time. He is certain about his destiny, as well as strong and capable. What I like most about his character is the driving force in his side of the story; he cares deeply and his sense of purpose is strong.

Were there any other especially interesting characters?

Yes, keep your eyes peeled for a boy named Cinder.

From whose point of view is the story told? 

Aria and Perry.

Was the book different from what I expected?

I wasn't sure what to expect at all. 

A quote or two from the book:

"Come on, Paisley. What's the worst that could happen?"
Aria meant it as a joke,but her voice sounded too high so she tacked on a laugh. That came out sounding mildly hysterical.g
"What could happen in a damaged dome?"

Paisley counted on her slender fingers. "Our skin could rot off. We could get locked out. An Aether storm could turn us into human bacon. Then the cannibals could eat us for breakfast." 

"She absorbed the terror and beauty of him and his world. Of every moment over the past days. All of it, filling her up like the first breath she'd ever taken. And never had she loved life more." 

"She found it curious and frightening that she could deeply dislike someone she didn’t even know. It wasn’t her. At least, it wasn’t how she used to be." 

"She'd survived the outside. She'd survived the Aether and cannibals and wolves. She knew how to love now, and how to let go. Whatever came next, she would survive it, too" 

Did you like the way the book ended?

No. But I think that was the intention of the author. If there was closure, I wouldn't have started reading book two an hour later.

Final thoughts:

I appreciate that this book was entertaining in its own right without any foul language or any adult material that some books in the YA genre include. The main characters do have sex, but with absolutely no detail. There is some violence and death, their journey is exhausting. I'd feel safe letting my daughter read this when she becomes a teenager.

Tell me:
Have you read Under the Never Sky? If so, what did you think of it?

What are you reading now; and what's in your coffee cup?

Leave me a comment below this post and don't forget to subscribe! I'm off to refill my coffee cup and read something new!

Melody

Twilight; by Stephenie Meyer

Here we are again, it's time for another book review! I read the Twilight Saga in the month of June 2009. To paint this picture clearly, I have to tell you that I had Z-E-R-O interest in this story for such a long time. I worked with a girl who would always bring these huge books to read on her lunch break. I asked her what they were about and stopped her when she said "vampire". Ugh. Not my thing. 

As many books do, it became a movie. One that I finally watched after my fiance (now husband) convinced me to give it 20 minutes. I rolled my eyes and whined, but I finally went with it. Twenty minutes later, I told him we could finish the movie. After that, I had to read the books. HAD. TO.

What's in my cup?

Starbucks bottled Dark Chocolate Mocha Frappuccino. It's hot outside and these drinks make summer just a little bit sweeter. 

Book: Twilight; by Stephenie Meyer

published in: 2005, USA

Summary without spoilers: 

Bella Swan is a high school girl who moves in with her dad. Nothing could be more predictable than Bella's life until she meets Edward Cullen.

Edward's reaction to Bella is an odd one; he doesn't seem to like her, he insists that's it'd be better if they weren't friend, yet he can't stay away from her.

Bella is nearly hit and crushed by a van in the school parking lot and in an instant she is in Edward's arms. He's pushing the vehicle away from her and miraculously saving her life. Bella goes looking for answers and when she discovers that the Cullens are vampires; things get real and life gets dangerous. Edward isn't the only vampire who wants to snack on her. 

Love. Vampires. High school. Danger. Awkwardness. Secrets. Blood. Death. Humanity. Vegetarianism. Yep, Twilight has all that.

What did I think of the main characters? 

I liked Bella. She doesn't like sports. She feels awkward. She would rather be somewhere with sunshine and palm trees. She is loyal to a fault. She knows how to creep on people via Google search. I can relate to the girl. 

Edward is a brooding vampire who has ridiculously mixed feelings (ya know, love and bloodthirst) regarding the love of his afterlife. He also has some serious stalker issues. Not to mention, he made his way into Bella's room without being invited. Polite vampires respect boundaries. Just google any real folklore. Even so, I still rooted for him and Bella. 

Were there any other especially interesting characters?

Bella's dad, Charlie. I liked his character. He's just the most normal guy. He doesn't have a clue about what's going on, He is quiet and a bit awkward like Bella, but he is all love and concern

From whose point of view is the story told? 

Bella Swan.

Was the book different from what I expected?

Since I saw the movie first, I'll have to say no.  

A quote or two from the book:

"I decided as long as I'm going to hell, I might as well do it thoroughly." 

"So what you're saying is, I'm your brand of heroin?" I teased, trying to lighten the mood.
He smiled swiftly, seeming to appreciate my effort. "Yes, you are exactly my brand of heroin." 

"About three things I was absolutely positive: First, Edward was a vampire. Second, there was a part of him - and I didn't know how dominant that part might be - that thirsted for my blood. And third, I was unconditionally and irrevocably in love with him."

"So, did you stab Edward Cullen with a pencil or what? I've never seen him act like that." 

Did you like the way the book ended?

It was good enough. 

Final thoughts:
I can't help but love how high school is depicted as purgatory, at least from the Cullens' point of view. It makes me laugh.

Love it or hate it, Twilight is certainly a fandom. There is no shortage of inflamed reactions to the Twilight Saga. Yes, I said inflamed. Twihards vs. Twihaters. 

I have to be honest, I feel the pressure to rip on the series and criticize everything about this book to qualify myself as an adequate book reader. I won't say that Stephenie Meyer is a literary god who invented the Edwardian period. She isn't. And yes, she broke a couple folklore rules about vampires. I will say that I enjoy Twilight for what it is: a story. At the very heart of it all, it is entertainment. I loved reading it and that is okay.

Tell me:
Have you read Twilight? If so, what did you think of it?
What are you reading now; and what's in your coffee cup?

Leave me a comment below this post and don't forget to subscribe! I'm off to refill my coffee cup and read something new!

Melody

My Life Next Door; by Huntley Fitzpatrick

Hello, and welcome back! Today I am going to review of one of my favorite books that I've read this year. For a book to make a lasting impression with me, I have to really get invested and love or hate the characters and what is going on. Believe me when I say, these characters stayed to dance around in my mind after the book was over. I'll try to keep from gushing.

But first, let's talk coffee.

What's in my cup?

I am drinking a venti Iced White Chocolate Mocha, topped with whipped cream. It is yummy! I couldn't help myself. 

 

Book: My Life Next Door; by Huntley Fitzpatrick

published in: 2012, USA

Summary without spoilers: 

Samantha's life is scheduled, immaculate and predictable. Her mother is the ambitious, focused, single mother, Senator Reed. Life has always been that way, and she's fine with that. She's always been the good daughter.

The Garretts are the Reed's neighbors. They moved in when Samantha was young; but she wasn't allowed to play with them. To Senator Reed's dismay, the Garretts are loud. They have toys all over the yard. They have kids everywhere. They're one of those families.

Samantha has secretly watched the Garretts from her rooftop for years. They were her bedtime story; she imagined what it must be like to be in a big family with so much love and laughter, so much mess and togetherness. To her, it's the dream life. 

Then one night, one of them just climbs up and joins her on her roof. Jase Garrett. 

A friendship and a first romance soon start. Samantha is suddenly in the Garretts home; spending time with them, laughing and watching the little ones. Senator Reed is very much an oblivious mother; she is so caught up with running for re-election that she doesn't notice Samantha's time away. 

Jase and Samantha are dazzled by how perfect things are when suddenly the proverbial bottom falls out. Life happens and it's bad. Cliché? Not so much. I was expecting something else to test their romance. I didn't see this coming.

There is more to this story than Jase and Samantha. We have Nan; she's Samantha's best friend and she comes with a few problems of her own. Let's not forget Nan's brother, Tim. He is possibly the smartest looser on the planet. Even Senator Reed has more going on than just politics.

Friendship. Addicts. Politics. Romance. Lies. Funny kids. Plot twist. Humor. Heartbreak. Family. This book has all that and a beautiful cover! Because, yes. I judge books by their cover, too.

What did I think of the main characters? 

I liked them. They were fun to read. 
From the beginning with Jase, what you see is what you get. He is already confident in who he is. He likes things that take time and require attention.

As for Samantha, I liked how while she may have it all together, she still has to learns what kind of person she wants to be.

Were there any other especially interesting characters?
This book would have been lost without its other characters. Tim, really stood out to me as a favorite. His character grows and changes in a lot of ways without loosing it's authenticity. 

I would love to know more about Mr. and Mrs. Garrett; they would make a great story.
Little George Garrett. That precious 4 year old cracked me up!!

From whose point of view is the story told? 
Samantha Reed.

Was the book different from what I expected?
Yes and no. I expected it to be a feel good read with a bit of romance. It did not disappoint. The story was well developed; and I did not expect it to have the plot elements that it did. 

A quote or two from the book:

“No bikinis on a first date.” 
He nods. “I’m sure that’s a rule. Or should be. For my sisters anyway."

“I cannot help but wonder if any parents ever actually schedule in adolescent drama on their day planners. Looks like a slow week, Sarah. I guess I can pencil in your eating disorder.” 

“Being a politician is a lot like being an alcoholic in denial.”

Did you like the way the book ended?
Yes.

Final thoughts:
I'm 29 and I enjoyed this book. It's not strictly a teeny-bopperbook. but I would have loved it as a teen, too. I would not give this to too young of a reader. Maybe 14+. Maybe older. Use judgement. There is some profanity, and the two main characters do end up having sex; but it's not the main event. Consider yourself warned.


Tell me:
Have you read My Life Next Door? If so, what did you think of it?
What are you reading now; and what's in your coffee cup?

Leave me a comment below this post and don't forget to subscribe! I'm off to refill my coffee cup and read something new!

Melody

Jane Eyre; by Charlotte Brontë

I'm so glad you stopped by my blog; you're right in time for my first book and coffee post! Let's get started.

What's in my cup? 
Maxwell House coffee with Bailey's Toffee Almond creamer. I must say, it's pretty delicious. My husband brought it home and the man knows how to be awesome.

Book: Jane Eyre; by Charlotte Brontë
published in:  1847, England.

Summary without spoilers:
Jane Eyre is the story of a little orphaned girl who is taken in by a kind uncle. Sadly, the uncle dies before the story even begins. We begin with Jane left in the care of her Aunt Reed and cousins who resent her for being there.

Soon Mrs. Reed has had enough, and sends her off to a girls' school for the orphaned and underprivileged. There she learns what it is like to be poor, cold, and hungry; but she also learns to build friendships and to succeed. 

As the years go by, she excels as a student and even becomes a teacher. Soon with her teaching experience, she puts an advertisement in the paper seeking employment as a governess. When she takes the employment, the story really gets going.

Jane Eyre moves to Thornfield Hall to teach her little pupil, Adele. She soon meets and falls in love with her mysterious employer, Mr. Rochester and the plot thickens. 

Secrets. Fire. Heartbreak. Lies. Proposals. Questions of paternity. Family. Morals. Love. This book has it all. If I tell you anymore, I'll give too much away. 

What did I think of the main character? 
I loved Jane Eyre. She perseveres and overcomes. She does what she feels is right. I love that even though she feels little and unpretty, she refuses to let that stop her from being a caring and capable woman. Jane is a great character.

Were there any other especially interesting characters?
Oh my, yes! Be on the look out for the name Bertha Mason. I can't tell you more.

From whose point of view is the story told? 
Jane Eyre.

Was the book different from what I expected?
I'm going to say yes. When I started the book I had no idea what I was getting into, it was like a blind date. The twists and turns we took were unexpected and lead to a wonderful story altogether.

A quote or two from the book:

“I do not think, sir, you have any right to command me, merely because you are older than I, or because you have seen more of the world than I have; your claim to superiority depends on the use you have made of your time and experience.” 

“You — you strange — you almost unearthly thing! — I love as my own flesh. You — poor and obscure, and small and plain as you are — I entreat to accept me as a husband.” 

Did you like the way the book ended? 
Yes. Yes, I did.

This book is in the public domain. That means that it was published so long ago that you can pick it up for free. If you're interested, you can pick it up here.

Tell me:
Have you read Jane Eyre? If so, what did you think of it?
What are you reading now; and what's in your coffee cup?

Leave me a comment below this post and don't forget to subscribe! I'm off to refill my coffee cup and read something new!

Melody