Favourites of 2012

As the year draws to a close, it seems like a worthwhile endeavour to reflect upon the books we read and loved this year. We really couldn’t narrow it down to a top 10 and why not present 12 favourites of 2012 (and even that was hard enough)? However, this list is not a ranking among these books, because that would have been impossible ... and Diana and I wanted to avoid a Christmas quarrel. So we each picked six and present them in order of their publication. Click on the covers to get to the books’ GoodReads pages.

Merry Christmas, everyone! Have a few peaceful days, lots of bookish presents, and we hope to see you in 2013. And if you like, share a few of your favourites in the comments.

Diana’s picks:

Incarnate – Jodie Meadows

As book one in a trilogy, Incarnate concentrates on character development. Main character Ana stands out differently, because she is new in a society where everyone knows each other. New, imperfect, afraid - and she brings change. What I liked most was the tender love story between Ana and Sam, which builds upon literature, music, and art.

Scarlet – A.C. Gaughen

A Robin Hood story from the point of view of Scarlet, a young woman with a secret past that only Robin knows about. This change in perspective was what made the novel so fascinating for me. Even though it’s written in first person, the mystery around Scarlet was unravelled step by step, like a puzzle. I would have loved a sequel to this book, because there’s so much potential which could not be met just with one book.

Black Heart – Holly Black

Black Heart is the final book in the Curse Workers trilogy and it is the best last book of a series I’ve read so far. The main character, Cassel Sharpe, comes to a conclusion about his life that seems very natural to me, but I was even fonder of the little twist at the end. Wonderfully unexpected.

The Book of Blood and Shadow
– Robin Wassermann

Here is a mystery about a book, which is paid in blood. The story shocked me a few times with unexpected twists and turns and became unpredictable to me, which I liked a lot. Also, a large part of the story takes place in the old city of Prague - a favourite city of mine concerning history and mystery.

Pushing the Limits – Katie McGarry

 It’s not often that I like books where there’s nothing supernatural to the story, but Pushing the Limits got to me. The romance between the two very different main characters is very delicate. There are pain and fear to deal with and a lot of lines to be crossed for them to trust each other. Beautifully written, it was an amazing read.

The Diviners – Libba Bray

New York in the Golden Twenties, plus a magic murder mystery to be solved. When I got over the fact that it’s really playing in the 1920s, I absolutely fell into the story and only came back out again after the last page was turned.

Julika’s picks:

The Fault in Our Stars – John Green

There isn’t much that can be said about this book that hasn’t been said already. The possibly most frequently used phrase: A book about cancer that is not a cancer book, because cancer books suck. And this book definitely doesn’t.

The Immortal Rules – Julie Kagawa

Just when I thought that everything that could possibly be written about vampires has been written (and then some), Julie Kagawa proved me wrong. I love Alison (and Zeke) and will only wait patiently for book two for a lack of other options.

City of Lost Souls – Cassandra Clare

There are a few authors that will make me drop everything and vanish into my reading cave once I get my hands on their books. Cassandra Clare is one of them and everyone who dares to disturb me during my reading does so at their own peril. City of Lost Souls was one of my most anticipated books of 2012 and it didn’t let me down. It’s only fault is that the final book is still so far off.

Shadow of Night – Deborah Harkness

Vampires, witches, and Victorian London (and other places)! A Discovery of Witches was one of my surprise favourite books of 2011 and even though I found the beginning of this second book difficult to get into, it definitely makes my list of favourite books of this year. If you have only one bone in your body that appreciates well-researched historical novels, you are missing something amazing if you don’t read Deborah Harkness.

Unspoken – Sarah Rees Brennan

I’ll confess that I only picked up Unspoken because Cassandra Clare and Maureen Johnson were talking about it so highly. And am I ever glad that I did! Even if the end made me want to hurt the author. I mean that as an absolute compliment, because apparently I prefer authors who like to feast on their readers’ despair.

Beautiful Redemption
– Kami Garcia & Margaret Stohl

 
The Caster Chronicles is probably one of those series that has to grow on its readers. At least I can’t imagine that it would cause quite the frenzy that other series do, but maybe I’m going to be surprised once the first movie hits the cinemas. As the final book in the series, I thought it was a great conclusion to a wonderful storyline. I am very much looking forward to the authors’ future projects as well.

Waiting on Wednesday: Asunder by Jodi Meadows

Waiting On Wednesday is a weekly event, hosted by Jill over at Breaking the Spine, that spotlights upcoming releases that we’re eagerly anticipating.

This week’s can’t wait to read selection is
Asunder by Jodi Meadows
Publication Date: January 29th 2013.

Asunder - Katherine Tegen Books

DARKSOULS
Ana has always been the only one. Asunder. Apart. But after Templedark, when many residents of Heart were lost forever, some hold Ana responsible for the darksouls–and the newsouls who may be born in their place.

SHADOWS
Many are afraid of Ana’s presence, a constant reminder of unstoppable changes and the unknown. When sylph begin behaving differently toward her and people turn violent, Ana must learn to stand up not only for herself but for those who cannot stand up for themselves.

LOVE
Ana was told that nosouls can’t love. But newsouls? More than anything, she wants to live and love as an equal among the citizens of Heart, but even when Sam professes his deepest feelings, it seems impossible to overcome a lifetime of rejection.

Synopsis from goodreads.com 

The first book in this series, Incarnate, was one of the best ones for me this year. I read it immediately after it was published and simply loved it. Main character Ana is hopefully up to whatever it is thrown at her in this sequel: darkness, distrust and love. The last one sounds the hardest for someone who doesn't know love to begin with. Moreover, I'm curious how she will handle the changes in the city Heart, many of which she caused. But my favourite character is gentle, talented Sam, whom I waited so long already to read about again.

Which book did you choose this week? Leave us a comment.

Teaser Tuesday: Summer Knight by Jim Butcher

Teaser Tuesdays is a weekly bookish meme, hosted by MizB of Should Be Reading.
To play along just do the following:

• Grab your current read
• Open to a random page
• Share two (2) “teaser” sentences from somewhere on that page
• BE CAREFUL NOT TO INCLUDE SPOILERS! (make sure that what you share doesn’t give too much away! You don’t want to ruin the book for others!)
• Share the title & author, too, so that other TT participants can add the book to their TBR Lists if they like your teasers! 

Summer Knight by Jim Butcher.

Summer Knight - Roc

“We have to find *** and stop her. Save the girl.”
“Or what happens?” Billy asked.
“Badness.”
“Kaboom badness?”
I shook my head. “Mostly longer term than that.”
“Like what?”
“How do you feel about ice ages?”
-- Chapter 29

Summer Knight is book four in the Dresden Files, a series about Harry Dresden - the only wizard listed in Chicago's telephone book. He's tall, wears black and works as a private investigator for supernatural stuff in the mortal world: vampires, faeries, demons - you name it. Dresden works with a spirit named Bob, has a cynical voice and tells his sories in the first person.
In Summer Knight, he has to find the murderer of the Summer Queen's knight, try not to get too entangled in faerie debts and maybe surviving the clash of the summer and the winter faerie courts would be good as well. Full of suspense, mystery and wisecracks - I'm enjoying this book very much.

Which book are you reading today? Tease us in the comments.

Waiting on Wednesday: Vengeance Bound by Justina Ireland

Waiting On Wednesday is a weekly event, hosted by Jill over at Breaking the Spine, that spotlights upcoming releases that we’re eagerly anticipating.

This week’s can’t wait to read selection is
Vengeance Bound by Justina Ireland.
Publication Date: April 2nd 2013

Vengeance Bound -
Simon & Schuster Books For Young Readers

Cory Graff is not alone in her head. Bound to a deal of desperation made when she was a child, Cory’s mind houses the Furies—the hawk and the serpent—lingering always, waiting for her to satisfy their bloodlust. After escaping the asylum where she was trapped for years, Cory knows how to keep the Furies quiet. By day, she lives a normal life, but by night, she tracks down targets the Furies send her way. And she brings down Justice upon them.

Cory’s perfected her system of survival, but when she meets a mysterious boy named Niko at her new school, she can’t figure out how she feels about him. For the first time, the Furies are quiet in her head around a guy. But does this mean that Cory’s finally found someone who she can trust, or are there greater factors at work? As Cory’s mind becomes a battlefield, with the Furies fighting for control, Cory will have to put everything on the line to hold on to what she’s worked so hard to build.

Synopsis from goodreads.com.

Why I'm waiting. It's Greek mythology transported into a modern day scenario and I cannot stay away from such things. I'm always fascinated by how authors can work with mythology time and time again. The modern angle makes the story all the more interesting. Also, the synopsis raises more questions, I want answered: Which kind of deal did Cory make to be saddled with the Furies? Can she regain control over her mind again? And what role does Niko play in all of this? It all makes me rub my hands together in happy anticipation and wait patiently until April for answers. :)

What are you waiting on this week? Leave us a comment.

Teaser Tuesday: The Iron Legends by Julie Kagawa

Teaser Tuesdays is a weekly bookish meme, hosted by MizB of Should Be Reading.
To play along just do the following:

• Grab your current read
• Open to a random page
• Share two (2) “teaser” sentences from somewhere on that page
• BE CAREFUL NOT TO INCLUDE SPOILERS! (make sure that what you share doesn’t give too much away! You don’t want to ruin the book for others!)
• Share the title & author, too, so that other TT participants can add the book to their TBR Lists if they like your teasers!  

The Iron Legends by Julie Kagawa

The Iron Legends - Harlequin Teen

Everyone says the Summer Queen is stunning, beautiful, absolutely captivating. Yeah, I guess she is, but so is a volcanic eruption, and probably less volatile.
-- Summer’s Crossing, Chapter 4

How very chliché. Why can’t it be the third nephew twice removed who’s fated to destroy the world?
-- Iron’s Prophecy, Chapter 4

Usually, I dislike in-between stories or chapters that form part of the canon, but aren’t necessary to understand it. Sometimes, they are not easy to get a hold of, but this hadn’t been the case for Winter’s Passage and Summer’s Crossing. Julie Kagawa’s Iron Fey series has been different for me. Suddenly, I didn’t mind that the last book was from a different point of view and I certainly didn’t mind the additional stories between the individual books. I’m glad that they are now available as a companion piece as they enrich the story while not forcing you to read them. However, if you already have the first two novellas, this publication is a little bit redundant, even with the added bits and pieces. Yet it is the third, Iron’s Prophecy,  story that will be the bridge to the second cycle and offer the connection to The Lost Prince. And it does look nice with the other books ...

What are you reading this week? And what are your thoughts on additional novellas between individual books?

Waiting on Wednesday: Prodigy by Marie Lu

Waiting On Wednesday is a weekly event, hosted by Jill over at Breaking the Spine, that spotlights upcoming releases that we’re eagerly anticipating.

This week’s can’t wait to read selection is
Prodigy by Marie Lu.
Publication Date: January 29th 2013.

Prodigy - Putnam Juvenile

June and Day arrive in Vegas just as the unthinkable happens: the Elector Primo dies, and his son Anden takes his place. With the Republic edging closer to chaos, the two join a group of Patriot rebels eager to help Day rescue his brother and offer passage to the Colonies. They have only one request--June and Day must assassinate the new Elector.

It’s their chance to change the nation, to give voice to a people silenced for too long.

But as June realizes this Elector is nothing like his father, she’s haunted by the choice ahead. What if Anden is a new beginning? What if revolution must be more than loss and vengeance, anger and blood--what if the Patriots are wrong?

Synopsis from goodreads.com

I probably don’t have to say a lot about why I can hardly wait for this book. I received Legend as a gift last Christmas and I’ve kept returning to thinking about Day and June. I really hope that there will be a little more to the other characters (such as Tess) as well and that we’ll get to see some more of the world beyond the Republic. I also hope that my gut instinct is wrong when it comes to Anden, Day, and June regarding a certain geometrical shape.

Tell us about the books you look forward to in 2013 ... or maybe you picked a December title?

Teaser Tuesday: Cursed by Jennifer L. Armentrout

Teaser Tuesdays is a weekly bookish meme, hosted by MizB of Should Be Reading.
To play along just do the following:

• Grab your current read
• Open to a random page
• Share two (2) “teaser” sentences from somewhere on that page
• BE CAREFUL NOT TO INCLUDE SPOILERS! (make sure that what you share doesn’t give too much away! You don’t want to ruin the book for others!)
• Share the title & author, too, so that other TT participants can add the book to their TBR Lists if they like your teasers!

 Cursed by Jennifer L. Armentrout

Cursed - Spencer Hill Press

"Yep. Squeaky died. I buried him. Olivia dug him up. I woke up the next day with the thing sitting on my chest."
-- Chapter 9

"But don't confuse pity with caring, Ember," she went on. "Hayden's always had a soft spot for all things... lost and broken."
-- Chapter 16

Having read Armentrout's Covenant series (as far as it’s published), I couldn't help but notice Cursed. It has nothing to do with the series, but rather stands alone. The characters are gifted similarly to the X-Men, which fits right in with my supernatural reading tendencies. ;)
Main character Ember is witty and ironic - the kind of (anti-) heroine I prefer - and she’s doing everything to contradict the theory that her curse is actually a gift. Everything she touches dies, how’s that not a curse? Hayden tries to convince her otherwise and helps her with her curse/gift. I liked him from the start, because he’s one of the only few who is friendly to Ember. So I’m unhappy when his motives are questioned. Still, what are his motives?

Which books are you reading right now? Tease us in the comments.

Waiting on Wednesday: Out of the Easy by Ruta Sepetys

Waiting On Wednesday is a weekly event, hosted by Jill over at Breaking the Spine, that spotlights upcoming releases that we’re eagerly anticipating.

This week’s can’t wait to read selection is
Out of the Easy by Ruta Sepetys.
Publication Date: February 13th 2013

Out of the Easy - Philomel Book

It’s 1950, and as the French Quarter of New Orleans simmers with secrets, seventeen-year-old Josie Moraine is silently stirring a pot of her own. Known among locals as the daughter of a brothel prostitute, Josie wants more out of life than the Big Easy has to offer. She devises a plan get out, but a mysterious death in the Quarter leaves Josie tangled in an investigation that will challenge her allegiance to her mother, her conscience, and Willie Woodley, the brusque madam on Conti Street.

Josie is caught between the dream of an elite college and a clandestine underworld. New Orleans lures her in her quest for truth, dangling temptation at every turn, and escalating to the ultimate test.

Synopsis from goodreads.com.

After reading a lot of supernatural / fantasy lately, I need something more realistic in my line of sight and Out of the Easy gives me just that and more. It's historical fiction featuring a young heroine, topped off with some murder mystery (god knows, I like that a lot ;) ) and a strong character who seems determined to make her own descisions, despite what others want for her.

Which titles are you waiting for? Let us hear in the comments!

Teaser Tuesday: Beautiful Redemption by Kami Garcia and Margaret Stohl

Teaser Tuesdays is a weekly bookish meme, hosted by MizB of Should Be Reading.
To play along just do the following:

• Grab your current read
• Open to a random page
• Share two (2) “teaser” sentences from somewhere on that page
• BE CAREFUL NOT TO INCLUDE SPOILERS! (make sure that what you share doesn’t give too much away! You don’t want to ruin the book for others!)
• Share the title & author, too, so that other TT participants can add the book to their TBR Lists if they like your teasers!  

Beautiful Redemption by Kami Garcia and Margaret Stohl

Beautiful Redemption - Razorbill

As Amma used to say, the good thing about the truth is it’s true, and there’s no arguing with the truth. You may not like it, but that doesn’t make it any less true.
-- Chapter 1

If fear is going to stop us, we should concede failure right now.
-- Chapter 20

The Caster world has to be one of my favourite literary worlds. I couldn’t explain why this is the case without writing an essay about it. Suffice to say that I loved this book and feel so glad with all the loose ends neatly tied up. I would have hated it if this had felt rushed or unmotivated, but this is not the case at all. It fits perfectly with the style and the story arc of the rest of the series while completing it’s very own arc as well. I will re-read the series in the near future to appreciate all the foreshadowing and hidden meanings that I’m sure I missed. Overall, I’m sad to see these characters go, but happy for the worthy ending this series received.

Are you by chance reading a last book in a series as well? Or are you starting a brand new one? Share it in the comments.

Waiting on Wednesday: Pivot Point by Kasie West

Waiting On Wednesday is a weekly event, hosted by Jill over at Breaking the Spine, that spotlights upcoming releases that we’re eagerly anticipating.

This week’s can’t wait to read selection is
Pivot Point by Kasie West.
Publication Date: February 12th 2013.  

Pivot Point - HarperTeen

Knowing the outcome doesn’t always make a choice easier . . .

Addison Coleman’s life is one big “What if?” As a Searcher, whenever Addie is faced with a choice, she can look into the future and see both outcomes. It’s the ultimate insurance plan against disaster. Or so she thought. When Addie’s parents ambush her with the news of their divorce, she has to pick who she wants to live with—her father, who is leaving the paranormal compound to live among the “Norms,” or her mother, who is staying in the life Addie has always known. Addie loves her life just as it is, so her answer should be easy. One Search six weeks into the future proves it’s not.
In one potential future, Addie is adjusting to life outside the Compound as the new girl in a Norm high school where she meets Trevor, a cute, sensitive artist who understands her. In the other path, Addie is being pursued by the hottest guy in school—but she never wanted to be a quarterback’s girlfriend. When Addie’s father is asked to consult on a murder in the Compound, she’s unwittingly drawn into a dangerous game that threatens everything she holds dear. With love and loss in both lives, it all comes down to which reality she’s willing to live through ... and who she can’t live without.

Synopsis from goodreads.com.

I wouldn’t want to know my future. All those possibilities would probably drive me crazy and I wouldn’t be able to decide anything. But that won’t keep me from reading about it. :) I’m curious about how Addie is dealing with her gift on a daily basis and how she will decide at this crucial moment in her life. The synopsis promises suspense and surprises - despite a look into the future.

What are your most anticipated reads this Wednesday?

Teaser Tuesday: Unravelling by Elizabeth Norris

Teaser Tuesdays is a weekly bookish meme, hosted by MizB of Should Be Reading.
To play along just do the following:

• Grab your current read
• Open to a random page
• Share two (2) “teaser” sentences from somewhere on that page
• BE CAREFUL NOT TO INCLUDE SPOILERS! (make sure that what you share doesn’t give too much away! You don’t want to ruin the book for others!)
• Share the title & author, too, so that other TT participants can add the book to their TBR Lists if they like your teasers!

Unravelling by Elizabeth Norris.

Unravelling -
Harper Collins Children's Books

I wonder how long I was dead. Because I know with absolute certainty that I was. Dead.
-- 23:23:56:40

“No, ma’am,” I say, looking down to avoid her eyes—and I’d be embarrassed about that except Annabeth Trechter is the only woman who scares my dad. And she likes him.
-- 16:19:58:49

I've just started Unravelling (or Unraveling, if you want the American version - I liked the British cover better)  and it gripped me immediately. Janelle, the main character, is not only brought back from the dead, but there’s also a clock ticking down towards the end of the world and Janelle has to find a way to stop it. The chapter titles actually show the counting clock, which aditionally keeps up the suspense.
So far I like Janelle, who is clever and definitely not a damsel in distress. But I’m fonder of the dark, brooding Ben and hope he gets more page time as the novel progresses. I’m all for dark and dangerous guys!

Suspense or romance, mystery or zombie? What are you reading this Tuesday?

Waiting on Wednesday: Ink by Amanda Sun

Waiting On Wednesday is a weekly event, hosted by Jill over at Breaking the Spine, that spotlights upcoming releases that we’re eagerly anticipating.

This week’s can’t wait to read selection is
Ink by Amanda Sun.
Publication Date: June 25th 2013.

Ink - Harlequin Teen

On the heels of a family tragedy, the last thing Katie Greene wants to do is move halfway across the world. Stuck with her aunt in Shizuoka, Japan, Katie feels lost. Alone. She doesn’t know the language, she can barely hold a pair of chopsticks, and she can’t seem to get the hang of taking her shoes off whenever she enters a building.
Then there’s gorgeous but aloof Tomohiro, star of the school’s kendo team. How did he really get the scar on his arm? Katie isn’t prepared for the answer. But when she sees the things he draws start moving, there’s no denying the truth: Tomo has a connection to the ancient gods of Japan, and being near Katie is causing his abilities to spiral out of control. If the wrong people notice, they'll both be targets.
Katie never wanted to move to Japan—now she may not make it out of the country alive.

Synopsis from goodreads.com

This book sounds absolutely fantastic in all regards ... well except for the quite far-off release date. But considering that I have books on my list that are expected closer to 2020 than to today I really shouldn’t complain. So Japan and drawings coming to life mixed with a death threat. If that isn’t intriguing, I don’t know what is. Unless you have no interest in Japan or drawing or adventure/mystery whatsoever then that’s fine. :)

Which book can you hardly wait for and what is the furthest anticipated release date on your waiting list?

Teaser Tuesday: Dash and Lily’s Book of Dares by Rachel Cohn and David Levithan

Teaser Tuesdays is a weekly bookish meme, hosted by MizB of Should Be Reading.
To play along just do the following:

• Grab your current read
• Open to a random page
• Share two (2) “teaser” sentences from somewhere on that page
• BE CAREFUL NOT TO INCLUDE SPOILERS! (make sure that what you share doesn’t give too much away! You don’t want to ruin the book for others!)
• Share the title & author, too, so that other TT participants can add the book to their TBR Lists if they like your teasers!  

Dash and Lily’s Book of Dares by Rachel Cohn and David Levithan

Dash and Lily's Book of Dares -
Knopf Books for Young Readers

If I hadn’t appreciated her sadism, I would’ve headed straight for the hills. But instead, I headed straight for Santa. ... Luckily, I always travel with a book, just in case I have to wait on line for Santa, or some such inconvenience.
-- Chapter 3

It is much harder to lie to someone’s face. But. It is also much harder to tell the truth to someone’s face.
-- Chapter 7

I had such a hard time deciding on only two teasers for you. This book is so precious! Just right before Christmas, which is its own character in this story, but certainly not a Christmas-story. Really gorgeous writing ... and I better stop it now or I’ll embarrass myself (even more?) by gushing about this book. But really if you’re looking for a pleasant read that will make you smile, this is one great candidate for the task.

Share your Teaser Tuesday pick in the comments!

Waiting on Wednesday: Mind Games by Kiersten White

Waiting On Wednesday is a weekly event, hosted by Jill over at Breaking the Spine, that spotlights upcoming releases that we’re eagerly anticipating.

This week’s can’t wait to read selection is
Mind Games by Kiersten White.
Publication Date: February 19th 2013.

Mind Games - HarperTeen

Fia was born with flawless instincts. Her first impulse, her gut feeling, is always exactly right. Her sister, Annie, is blind to the world around her—except when her mind is gripped by strange visions of the future.
Trapped in a school that uses girls with extraordinary powers as tools for corporate espionage, Annie and Fia are forced to choose over and over between using their abilities in twisted, unthinkable ways… or risking each other’s lives by refusing to obey.

Synopsis from goodreads.com

This book is called Sister Assassin in the UK and also has quite a different cover as well as a much more detailed synopsis. I can’t really say which cover I like better. Obviously, the UK cover is edgier and will probably make for a nice eye-catcher, but I also think that the US cover fits well with the chosen title. It will be interesting to see Kiersten White depart from her Paranormalcy characters. This promises to be a great story if the characters manage to become as distinctive as Evie and Lend.

Share your Waiting on Wednesday in the comments and let me know your thoughts about title and cover choices.

Teaser Tuesday: Moon Over Soho by Ben Aaronovitch

Teaser Tuesdays is a weekly bookish meme, hosted by MizB of Should Be Reading.
To play along just do the following:

• Grab your current read
• Open to a random page
• Share two (2) “teaser” sentences from somewhere on that page
• BE CAREFUL NOT TO INCLUDE SPOILERS! (make sure that what you share doesn’t give too much away! You don’t want to ruin the book for others!)
• Share the title & author, too, so that other TT participants can add the book to their TBR Lists if they like your teasers!

Moon Over Soho by Ben Aaronovitch.

Moon Over Soho - Gollancz

There’s no such thing as a full-service forensics team. It’s very expensive, so you order bits of it up from the Home Office, like a Chinese takeaway. Judging by the number of Noddy suits filing past us, Stephanopoulos had gone for the super-deluxe meal for six with extra egg fried rice. I was, I guessed, the fortune cookie.
-- Page 78

After having been very pleasently surprised by Rivers of London, I thought, I might just carry on with the series. Moon Over Soho is book two. Again it's a murder mystery with a supernatural touch that is set in modern day London.
Peter Grant, low ranking police officer of the Metropolitan Police London, wizard's apprentice and general nice guy, is on his next case - which has a lot to do with jazz. Peter is telling the story from his PoV. He's ironic, witty and his analogies to explain police work to ordinary people are weirdly creative. That's why I like him so much and hope the book gets as good as the first.

Which books are you reading this Tuesday?  Leave us a comment.

Waiting on Wednesday: Just one Day by Gayle Forman

Waiting On Wednesday is a weekly event, hosted by Jill over at Breaking the Spine, that spotlights upcoming releases that we’re eagerly anticipating.

This week’s can’t wait to read selection is
Just one Day by Gayle Forman.
Publication Date: January 8th 2013

Just one Day - Dutton Books

When sheltered American good girl Allyson "LuLu" Healey first meets laid-back Dutch actor Willem De Ruiter at an underground performance of Twelfth Night in England, there’s an undeniable spark. After just one day together, that spark bursts into a flame, or so it seems to Allyson, until the following morning, when she wakes up after a whirlwind day in Paris to discover that Willem has left. Over the next year, Allyson embarks on a journey to come to terms with the narrow confines of her life, and through Shakespeare, travel, and a quest for her almost-true-love, to break free of those confines.

Synopsis from goodreads.com.

I have high expectations for this book! I read If I stay, which was heart-wrenchingly beautiful, and when I thought it couldn’t get better, there came the sequel Where she went and knocked me off my feet again. So I’m delighted to see a new series by Gayle Forman. The synopsis reads promising and I have hope that the series remains as two rather than three books. It’s refreshing.

On a different note: Happy Halloween to all those who celebrate it! :)

Which titles are you waiting on this spooky Wednesday?

Teaser Tuesday: The Storm Begins by Damian Dibben

Teaser Tuesdays is a weekly bookish meme, hosted by MizB of Should Be Reading.
To play along just do the following:

• Grab your current read
• Open to a random page
• Share two (2) “teaser” sentences from somewhere on that page
• BE CAREFUL NOT TO INCLUDE SPOILERS! (make sure that what you share doesn’t give too much away! You don’t want to ruin the book for others!)
• Share the title & author, too, so that other TT participants can add the book to their TBR Lists if they like your teasers!  

The Storm Begins by Damian Dibben.

The Storm Begins - Doubleday Childrens

The night Jake Djones found out that his parents were lost somewhere in history was one of the stormiest on record.
-- Chapter 1

“So, you’re wondering what you’re doing here? Who we all are?” “That would be an understatement. How do you know my family?” “I need to check your eyes first.”
-- Chapter 3

It’s time for new heroes. At least that’s what the back cover of my version of this book says. And so far I have to say that though Jake Djones chose some pretty big shoes that he wants to fill, he seems quite capable of the task. I’m not too far along yet, so take this with a grain of salt, but I can say that I took an almost instant liking to the characters and that’s definitely not something I say about all “new heroes”.

Which book is your companion this week?

Waiting on Wednesday: Dark Triumph by Robin LaFevers

Waiting On Wednesday is a weekly event, hosted by Jill over at Breaking the Spine, that spotlights upcoming releases that we’re eagerly anticipating.

This week’s can’t wait to read selection is
Dark Triumph by Robin LaFevers.
Publication Date: April 2nd 2013.

Dark Triumph - Houghton Mifflin
Books for Children

Sybella arrives at the convent’s doorstep half mad with grief and despair. Those that serve Death are only too happy to offer her refuge—but at a price. Naturally skilled in both the arts of death and seduction, the convent views Sybella as one of their most dangerous weapons.

But those assassin’s skills are little comfort when the convent returns her to a life that nearly drove her mad. Her father’s rage and brutality are terrifying, and her brother’s love is equally monstrous. And while Sybella is a weapon of justice wrought by the god of Death himself, He must give her a reason to live. When she discovers an unexpected ally imprisoned in the dungeons, will a daughter of Death find something other than vengeance to live for?

Synopsis from goodreads.com

I loved, loved, loved His Fair Assassin - Grave Mercy and thought that the character of Sybella could have used a little more page time. Little did I know that she would get a whole book! Happy news indeed.

What title are you waiting for this week?

Teaser Tuesday: The Mark of Athena by Rick Riordan

Teaser Tuesdays is a weekly bookish meme, hosted by MizB of Should Be Reading.
To play along just do the following:

• Grab your current read
• Open to a random page
• Share two (2) “teaser” sentences from somewhere on that page
• BE CAREFUL NOT TO INCLUDE SPOILERS! (make sure that what you share doesn’t give too much away! You don’t want to ruin the book for others!)
• Share the title & author, too, so that other TT participants can add the book to their TBR Lists if they like your teasers!

The Mark of Athena by Rick Riordan.

The Mark of Athena -
Disney Hyperion Books

The meeting was like a war council with donuts.
-- Page 171

 "Hercules, huh?" Percy frowned. "That guy was like the Starbucks of Ancient Greece. Everywhere you turn - there he is."
-- Page 321

I just finished this third book in the Heroes of Olympus series and it made me laugh out loud, cry with frustration, and smile with fondness at the characters. Luckily, there’s more to come and hopefully soon.
Seven demigods get on a warship, sail to ancient Rome, try to work together (that’s especially hard on the sons of Jupiter and Poseidon), face a lot of monsters and try not to get killed on their quest to keep the giants from awakening the earth goddess Gaea. You can see that there are some problems to be solved, especially on the working together part. ;) As with the first two books, I’ll definitely read it again.

What’s on your reading pile this week? Tease us in the comments.

Waiting on Wednesday: Rebel Heart by Moira Young

Waiting On Wednesday is a weekly event, hosted by Jill over at Breaking the Spine, that spotlights upcoming releases that we’re eagerly anticipating.

This week’s can’t wait to read selection is
Rebel Heart by Moira Young.
Publication Date: October 30th 2012

Rebel Heart - Margaret K. McElderry

  

It seemed so simple: Defeat the Tonton, rescue her kidnapped brother, Lugh, and then order would be restored to Saba’s world. Simplicity, however, has proved to be elusive. Now, Saba and her family travel west, headed for a better life and a longed-for reunion with Jack. But the fight for Lugh’s freedom has unleashed a new power in the dust lands, and a formidable new enemy is on the rise.

What is the truth about Jack? And how far will Saba go to get what she wants? In this much-anticipated follow-up to the riveting Blood Red Road, a fierce heroine finds herself at the crossroads of danger and destiny, betrayal and passion.

Synopsis from goodreads.com

I read Blood Red Road in July and liked it quite well. Saba's power was what drew me to her the most and I adored Jack. Funny, sweet, dangerous Jack with all his secrets. I'm so looking forward to this release. The truth about Jack? Some mysteries uncovered? What will happen to him and Saba in the sequel? And who's that enemy rising to power anyway?

Luckily it's not such a long wait anymore! :)

What have you set your eyes on this Wednesday?

Teaser Tuesday: The Paris Wife by Paula McLain

Teaser Tuesdays is a weekly bookish meme, hosted by MizB of Should Be Reading.
To play along just do the following:

• Grab your current read
• Open to a random page
• Share two (2) “teaser” sentences from somewhere on that page
• BE CAREFUL NOT TO INCLUDE SPOILERS! (make sure that what you share doesn’t give too much away! You don’t want to ruin the book for others!)
• Share the title & author, too, so that other TT participants can add the book to their TBR Lists if they like your teasers!

The Paris Wife by Paula McLain.

The Paris Wife - Ballantine Books

I wanted to go with him. I was dying to go, but he was wrong about no one noticing. As we ducked out the door together, I felt Kate’s green eyes moving hotly over my back and heard her silent shout, Hadley, be sensible!
I was tired of being sensible. I didn’t turn around.
-- Chapter 3

Ernest Hemingway wrote one of my favourite classics, The Old Man and the Sea. So I couldn’t overlook a novel dealing with his life in Paris during Jazz Age told by his first wife, Hadley Richardson. It being fiction made it even more attractive, as I for whatever reason don’t like biographies. So I know it’s not going to end happily, as anybody with a knowledge of Hemingway’s life will possibly know, but it might still let me glimpse at the idea of the writer before he became famous.

Which is your latest read? Share it in the comments.

Waiting on Wednesday: The Evolution of Mara Dyer by Michelle Hodkin

Waiting On Wednesday is a weekly event, hosted by Jill over at Breaking the Spine, that spotlights upcoming releases that we’re eagerly anticipating.

This week’s can’t wait to read selection is
The Evolution of Mara Dyer by Michelle Hodkin.
Publication Date: October 23rd 2012.

The Evolution of Mara Dyer -
Simon & Schuster Books for Young Readers

Mara Dyer once believed she could run from her past.

She can’t.

She used to think her problems were all in her head.

They aren’t.

She couldn’t imagine that after everything she’s been through, the boy she loves would still be keeping secrets.

She’s wrong.

In this gripping sequel to The Unbecoming of Mara Dyer, the truth evolves and choices prove deadly. What will become of Mara Dyer next?

Synopsis from goodreads.com

That is indeed a good question: What will become of Mara Dyer next? This is one of the books that keeps slipping off my radar and then I’m all happy again that it comes out quite soon. I know that there have been mixed reviews of the first book, but I fall firmly on the side of people who enjoyed it. The end of book one threw me for a loop and it will be interesting to see how that development will influence Mara’s sanity.

Which future release are your fingers itching for today?

Teaser Tuesday: Timepiece by Myra McEntire

Teaser Tuesdays is a weekly bookish meme, hosted by MizB of Should Be Reading.
To play along just do the following:

• Grab your current read
• Open to a random page
• Share two (2) “teaser” sentences from somewhere on that page
• BE CAREFUL NOT TO INCLUDE SPOILERS! (make sure that what you share doesn’t give too much away! You don’t want to ruin the book for others!)
• Share the title & author, too, so that other TT participants can add the book to their TBR Lists if they like your teasers!  

Timepiece by Myra McEntire.

Timepiece - EgmontUSA

The first rule of Hourglass is that you don’t talk about Hourglass. Like Fight Club, but without the merciless beatings.
-- Chapter 3

“Em said that the only emotions you take from people are the painful ones.” She looked at the book on her bedside table.Grimm’s fairy tales. “I’m guessing there are consequences when you do. Magic always has a price.”
-- Chapter 30

I suppose I have already broken the rule mentioned in the first quote. In my defence, I’m not a member of Hourglass and actually have no time-related ability whatsoever. If I did, I would certainly spend less time travelling from place A to place B. Or something to that effect. Providing that it was such an ability. Anyway. I really liked Hourglass and Emerson and Michael and I was a little worried about the change in perspective for this second book ... and I’m rarely this happy to be shown that my worries have been entirely in vain. Kaleb is a great narrator and I enjoyed being able to peek into his head. I think I can understand his actions in Hourglass better now that I know him better. Also: Southern Drawl!

What are y’all reading this weekend?

Waiting on Wednesday: Reached by Ally Condie

Waiting On Wednesday is a weekly event, hosted by Jill over at Breaking the Spine, that spotlights upcoming releases that we’re eagerly anticipating.

This week’s can’t wait to read selection is
Reached by Ally Condie.
Publication Date: November13th 2012.

Reached - Dutton Childrens' Books

After leaving Society and desperately searching for the Rising—and each other—Cassia and Ky have found what they were looking for, but at the cost of losing each other yet again: Cassia has been assigned to work for the Rising from within Society, while Ky has been stationed outside its borders. But nothing is as predicted, and all too soon the veil lifts and things shift once again.

In this gripping conclusion to the #1 New York Times bestselling Matched Trilogy, Cassia will reconcile the difficulties of challenging a life too confining, seeking a freedom she never dreamed possible, and honoring a love she cannot live without.

Synopsis from goodreads.com

After Crossed I will admit that I’m not beside myself to get my hands on the final book in the series, but I loved the first book and I really hope that I’ll be able to connect to these feelings rather than the sort of indifference I felt at times during book two. Ideally, the love triangle won’t be exploited too much, but that’s almost a certainty. Still, I thin kit will be interesting to see how/if Condie resolves not only the character arcs but also the the political background.

What do you think about the series and which book is on top of your waiting list this week?

Teaser Tuesday: The Diviners by Libba Bray

Teaser Tuesdays is a weekly bookish meme, hosted by MizB of Should Be Reading.
To play along just do the following:

• Grab your current read
• Open to a random page
• Share two (2) “teaser” sentences from somewhere on that page
• BE CAREFUL NOT TO INCLUDE SPOILERS! (make sure that what you share doesn’t give too much away! You don’t want to ruin the book for others!)
• Share the title & author, too, so that other TT participants can add the book to their TBR Lists if they like your teasers!

The Diviners by Libba Bray.

The Diviners -
Little, Brown Books for Young Readers

"The book of my bethren, Hobbes said - not the same at all," Will corrected her. "Semantics." "Gesundheit," Evie said.
-- Page 332

"There are times when one friend requires the blind faith of another, darling girl. This is such a time," Evie said after a long pause. "Besides, when have I ever steered you wrong?"
"Would you like a list?"
-- Page 378

After finally getting my hands on this book, I would have read it in one sitting, it's such a gripping read. But life got in the way. ;) The Diviners pairs murder mystery with the supernatural. It's greatly written, fast paced and full of suspense. I still have 150 pages to uncover the history of my favourite characters Theta and Jericho and to find out if and how the murder mystery will be solved. Can't wait to get on reading!

What is your current read? Tease us in the comments!

Waiting on Wednesday: Unravel Me by Tahereh Mafi

Waiting On Wednesday is a weekly event, hosted by Jill over at Breaking the Spine, that spotlights upcoming releases that we’re eagerly anticipating.

This week’s can’t wait to read selection is
Unravel Me by Tahereh Mafi.
Publication Date: February 5th 2013

Unravel Me - HarperCollins

tick, tick, tick, tick, tick
it's almost
time for war.

Juliette has escaped to Omega Point. It is a place for people like her—people with gifts—and it is also the headquarters of the rebel resistance.

She's finally free from The Reestablishment, free from their plan to use her as a weapon, and free to love Adam. But Juliette will never be free from her lethal touch.

Or from Warner, who wants Juliette more than she ever thought possible.

In this exhilarating sequel to Shatter Me, Juliette has to make life-changing decisions between what she wants and what she thinks is right. Decisions that might involve choosing between her heart—and Adam's life.

Synopsis from goodreads.com

A comment on goodreads about this book got my attention: The Dreaded Love Triangle of Doom. Oh boy, am I dreading it. Firstly, I'm not happy with love triangles in general. And secondly, I'm not a fan of Warner (though I'd give him a chance to explain his obsession with Juliette). Still, I want to read this book so very much. Shatter Me was brilliant. I loved the style of writing and Juliette's constant correction of her thoughts. Even the repetitions. I never read a book like this before and I hope the unique style continues on.  

Which book are you waiting on this week? Tell us in the comments.