{BOOK CLUB} Linger by Maggie Stiefvater

Have you heard of Maggie Stiefvater? NO? Where have you been? Under a rock? Just kidding! I reviewed her book 'Shiver' back HERE, and today I am going to review the sequel in this trilogy.

Once Grace and Sam have found each other, they know they must fight to stay together. For Sam, this means a reckoning with his werewolf past. For Grace, it means facing a future that is less and less certain.

Into their world comes a new wolf named Cole, whose past is full of hurt and danger. He is wrestling with his own demons, embracing the life of a wolf while denying the ties of a human. For Grace, Sam, and Cole, life is a constant struggle between two forces --wolf and human-- with love baring its two sides as well. It is harrowing and euphoric, freeing and entrapping, enticing and alarming. As their world falls apart, love is what lingers. But will it be enough?


Overall I loved the book, I was just as entranced by Linger as I was by Shiver! And definitely can't wait to read the third book in this trilogy ( Forever ). I love that is is such a pleasurable read, something you don't need to 'over think' but that you can enjoy all the same.

I loved the characters in the book, I again loved Grace and Sam, I can imagine Sam, such is the descriptive created by Maggie and at moments I very much am in love with him every bit as much as Grace is. Although I do find him frustrating, only because he can be such a sombre person, but I think there is somewhat of a revolution in Sam during this book and by the end he really steps up to the plate. I do find him a little ignorant with his acceptance to what is happening to Grace, especially when it is so obvious to everybody but him that her inner wolf is awakening.

Grace is as lovable as ever, although again somewhat frustrating in that she constantly tries to protect people. The points that I find frustrating with these characters, are intentional character flaws created by Maggie Stiefvater and what create depth in the books. I only find them so frustrating because I would find these characteristics annoying in anybody, real or fictitious.

I love how Isabel has evolved as a character and that we get to see more depth to her, it is not often that an author develops a High School 'Queen Bee' into anything more than a bully, but with Isabel we get to learn so much more about her personality and the things that create her bitchiness. I love that she is such an intelligent young woman, and understand how a difficult, albeit privileged home life has created her into the woman she has become.

It is nice to think that Cole's rock star good looks could actually exist. Too often these days we make an assumption that our rock stars/ celebrities are 'fake' beauty, resulting from loads of make up, cosmetic surgery, clever photography and PR. It is nice to think that they could be covered head to toe in mud and filth and still be drop dead handsome.

I think that Isabel and Cole's relationship has saved Cole, not that it will save Cole, but that it already has. Which is such a beautiful thing, that she could save one wolf when she couldn't save her brother, but it saddens me, that maybe she won't be able to see past her brother to be able to embrace the relationship that could potentially flourish between her and Cole.

I do wonder about Olivia, I think big things are install for her in the third book, she had such an important role in the first book and to basically drop away in Linger is rather sad.

The story line for Linger is not one that I would have predicted after finishing Shiver, so I have to ponder what the next instalment will involve! I haven't taken a peak at the reviews yet!

Sooo... dying to know, what did you think of the book? Do you have any questions for me about my  thoughts that I haven't covered here?

I have decided to bring back 'Book Club', although, in the craziness that is my life, I am honestly not sure as to how long it will be able to last. I do know this, I need some recommendations for books, I LOVE books about the supernatural, angels, werewolves etc. So if you can recommend a book in this genre I would love to hear about it. 

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{BOOK CLUB} Spellbound

What's a girl to do when meeting 'The One' means she's cursed to die a horrible death?

Life hasn't been easy on sixteen-year-old Emma Conner, so a new start in New York may be just the change she needs. But the posh Upper East Side prep school she has to attend? Not so much. Friendly faces are few and far between, except for one that she's irresistibly drawn to -Brendan Salinger, the guy with the rock-star good looks and the richest kid in school, who might just be her very own white knight.

But even when Brendan inexplicably turns cold, Emma can't stop staring. Ever since she laid eyes on him, strange things have been happening. Street lamps go out wherever she walks, and Emma's being having the oddest dreams: visions of herself in past lives- visions that warn her to stay away from Brendan. Or else.

So let's be honest. I enjoyed this book! Really enjoyed it, even though so many points should have frustrated me, it was a combination of 'Gossip Girl' meets 'Twilight'. 

The girl who goes to live in a strange town to complete High School, runs into a beyond gorgeous hot guy, who then blows her off before eventually deciding to make time for her, running into a little bit of supernatural trouble before eventually living 'Happily ever after' story line is getting a little bit boring!!

I'll give you a hint what the sequel will be all about; the girl will get dumped by the hot guy, fall in love with her best friend, the boyfriend will eventually come back and be irresistible again, causing the girl to have to choose between true love and the best friend!!!! Hopefully Shultz will be a little bit more original.

The story line also echoed a little towards Lauren Kate's 'Fallen' with past lives and eternal struggle with the path to true love.

So those parts DID frustrate me, but I found Shultz's writing easy to read, I found the character's enjoyable, I fell in love with Brendan and this forced me to keep reading to see what would happen next as their relationship deepened. Now I am eager to read the next book and discover what more will happen.

Despite the fact we never meet Emma's twin brother Ethan in the book (mostly because he was killed before the beginning of the book), I liked him, I like the fact that he was still looking out for his sister. It reminded me a lot of my brother (except my brother is still alive!!) and how he looks out for both of his sisters.

I also loved Angelique, the misunderstood teenage witch. I liked her right from the point when I read her name (that was my top choice for if Jellybean arrived as a girl!) and I hope that she has top placing in any new books that Shultz writes. 

Another part of the book I enjoyed, was when Shultz was describing Brendan;

"Soon enough, Brendan came into view. He wasn't leaning against the mailbox this morning, but against the cool stone of Vince A, with his headphones on and his hands stuffed into the pockets of his North Face jacket. His eyes were closed and his head was back, bouncing slightly in time to whatever he was listening to. As if he'd heard us approaching, Brendan turned toward us and opened his eyes - giving me a warm inviting smile." p.233

So why did I enjoy that part? I recently purchased hubby a North Face jacket!! LOL! So it made me feel that I was in someway connected with the uber attractive Brendan!!

Shultz obviously has a sense of humour as you can become a friend of Brendan on Facebook! Or download Brendan and Emma's iTunes playlist!

Would I recommend the book? Yes, if you are looking for a light read without too many complexities! I really honestly enjoyed the book.

By the way, just got this comment back from Shultz on her blog;
"Thanks so much, Hazel! I'm so happy you enjoyed it - and I promise you, there is NO love triangle for Emma in the sequel!"


I love that she actually takes the time to communicate with her fans!

{BOOK CLUB} Vampire Academy

Lissa Dragomir is a Moroi princess: a mortal vampire with a rare gift for harnessing the earth's magic. She must be protected at all times from Strigoi; the fiercest vampires - the ones who never die. The powerful blend of human and vampire blood that flows through Rose Hathaway, Lissa's best friend, make her a Dhampir. Rose is dedicated to a dangerous life of protecting Lissa from the Strigoi, who are hell-bent on making Lissa one of them.

After two years of freedom, Rose and Lissa are caught and dragged back to St. Vladimir's Academy, a school for vampire royalty and their guardians-to-be, hidden deep in the forests of Montana. But inside the iron gates, life is even more fraught with danger... and the Strigoi are always close by.

Rose and Lissa must navigate their dangerous world, confront the temptations of forbidden love, and never once let their guard down, lest the evil undead make Lissa on them forever...

The Modern Vampire World

I enjoyed this book although I did find that it drew some parallels with the House of Night series, particularly the setting of a school full of vampires all being trained for their future as vampire leaders with one special princess playing the main role within the story.

The highlight for me was the character Dimitri and watching his relationship with Rose grow as she grew. Watching Rose evolve and earn his respect, just as she learnt to respect him. 

I loved the way that Rose and Lissa's characters were basically Ying and Yang, it created interest, and after all aren't many of the best relationships in life just like that? Rose's approach to her love for her friend is powerful, it is not everyday that a friend would put their life and needs behind those of their friends and I found that to be very admirable. It was also fascinating watching them uncover the mystery behind Lissa's oddity. And I enjoyed watching Rose research and do out of character behaviours for the benefit of Lissa.

Watching Lissa and Christian's relationship unravel was also very fascinating, they definitely seemed better suited then Lissa and Aaron. Watching her realise that a relationship with someone who respects the person you are, for who you are not what you are would set her on the path to true love was fascinating, and inspiring.

I found the Mia character interesting, despite being a constant source of nastiness and rumours, especially the rumour about Rose and the two boys (Jesse and Ralf) and basically labelling her a blood whore. I couldn't help but feel sorry for her once the story came out as to why she had behaved the way she had.

So would I recommend this book... HELL YES!! In fact I'd recommend the rest of the series. The character of Dimitri is entirely dreaming and the most important reason for coming back for more! I will leave you with one of my favourite edits from the book...

Young Love

"All of a sudden, it occurred to me that he was still holding me down. The skin on his fingers was warm as he clutched my wrists. His face hovered inches from my own, and his legs and torso were actually pressing against mine. Some of his long brown hair hung around his face, and he appeared to be noticing me too, almost like he had that night in the lounge. And oh God, did he smell good. Breathing became difficult for me, and it had nothing to do with the workout or my lungs being crushed.

I would have given anything to be able to read his mind right then. Ever since that night in the lounge, I'd noticed him watching me with this same, studious expression. He never actually did it during the trainings themselves- those were business. But before and after, he would sometimes lighten up just a little, and I'd see him look at me in a way that was almost admiring. And sometimes, if I was really, really lucky, he'd smile at me. A real smile, too - not the dry one that accomponied the sarcasm we tossed around so often. I didn't want to admit it to anyone - not to Lissa, not even to myself - but some days, I lived for those smiles. They lit up his face "Gorgeous" no longer adequately described him.

Hoping to appear calm, I tried to think of something professional and guardian-related to say. Instead, I said, "So um... you got any other moves to show me?"

His lips twitched, and for a moment, I thought I was going to get one of those smiles. My heart leapt. Then, with visible effort, he pushed the smile back and once more became my tough-love mentor. He shifted off me, leaned back on his heels, and rose. "Come on. We should go."

I scrambled to my own feet and followed him out of the gym. He didn't look back as he walked, and I mentally kicked myself on the way back to my room.

I was crushing on my mentor. Crushing on my older mentor. I had to be out of my mind. He was seven years older than me. Old enough to be my... well, okay, nothing. But still older than me. Seven years was a lot. He'd been learning to write when I was born. When I'd been learning to write and throw books at my teachers, he'd probably been kissing girls. Probably lots of girls, considering how he looked. 

I so did not need this complication in my life right now."

Book Club

HALO 

Alexandra Adornetto

Nothing much happens in the sleepy town of Venus Cove.

But everything changes when three angels, Ivy, Bethany and Gabriel, are sent from Heaven to protect the town against the gathering forces of darkness. They work hard to conceal their true identity and - most of all - their wings.

But the mission is threatened when the youngest angel, Bethany, is sent to high school and falls for the handsome school captain, Xavier Woods. Will she defy the laws of Heaven by loving him? Things come to a head when the angels realise they are not the only supernatural power in Venus Cove. There's a new kid in town and he's charming, seductive and deadly.

Worst of all, he's after Beth.

The angels and Xavier must work together to overcome the dark forces - but will Beth survive the battle?

I love that this book is written by someone so young, I am so jealous of Adornetto's talent! When first deciding to feature this book as part of book club I looked on the internet at some others reviews and found a few negative ones. I completely disagree with the critics out there. This book is fabulous and enjoyable! I hope ya'll have enjoyed reading it!!

I've recently read that angels are the new vampires, following on the success of novels like 'Hush, Hush' and 'Fallen'. 'Halo' further cements the proof that angels are taking over.

I love the character of Bethany and her spontaneity and impulsiveness. I love that she is yet to be jaded by the harsh realities of life. Of course I fell for Gabriel, what full blooded woman wouldn't! So handsome! But found his behaviour frustrating at times.

In the beginning of the story I adored the character of Xavier, he seemed to have it all going for him, but then he found out that Beth was an angel and it all went down hill from there, he changed, he became a whiney overprotective boyfriend, and I was frustrated by that!

I also have a gripe with Beth and how long she took to work out Jake, the signs were TOO obvious, she was too oblivious to them, I would have preferred if in the story telling these signs were a little more hidden.

But overall enjoyed the book, I found it hard to put down so it was a good thing I was already on maternity leave when I started reading this book!!

My husband and I were talking about these questions over dinner last night and here are the answers we came up with...

Bethany describes heaven in the beginning of the book as 'Pure White'. How do you imagine heaven?

In terms of descriptive I can't really describe heaven other than blue sky and sunshine, however in terms of emotion it is really easy to describe, it is that place that makes you feel completely safe and comfortable, you are surrounded by friends and people you love and everything is easy. There is loads of laughter and happiness and all your desires are fulfilled so you don't want for anything. It is a place without insecurities, it is a beautiful place.

The angels are at first overwhelmed by the textures and sensations of our world. What tastes, textures etc. Would you be most attracted to and repulsed by if it were intensified?

I can't help but go for the obvious in this question.. I'd be attracted to bubbles, especially coconut or vanilla scented bubbles, I'd be attracted to the feel and smell of fresh crispy linen. My hubby said he'd be attracted to the feel and smell of new leather and that crisp fresh smell of a new $100 bill! We both agreed we'd be repulsed by that old pub stale beer carpet smell and the smell of those ladies that stink of perfume because they are trying to mask the smell of their cigarettes. I guess both of these smells are further repulsive for angels because of the sins that they represent.

Why do you think that the students were so attracted to the image of a 'Bad Boy' that they see in Jake? How did this influence the events occuring in this book?

This is easy, because they are teenagers! Teenagers are stuck in a place of insecurity, they are trying to find who they are in the world, along comes a character like Jake who is so sure of himself, who comes across as worldly and knowledge-able they gravitate towards him, and as he increases in popularity more people want to surround themselves with him. This influences the book because it allows him to have influence and power over these characters.

What song would you associate with this book?

I would associate Bob Sinclair's Love Generation. It represents the angels journey. Hubby would associate Dark Angel by Epic Trance, because the track reflects the strong emotions and the titles track reflects the character of Jake

To add to the discussion pop over to our Facebook discussion! 

Book Club

'Dead Until Dark'

Charlaine Harris

Sauce aka Source 

I watched the first series of True Blood before I had read this book. Unfortunately I feel that this ruined the book for me!! I knew what to expect and so I kept making comparisons with the television series and drawing parallels. Ultimately I cannot tell you if I enjoyed the book more than the television series. Because after reading the entire series, I like the books more. But I started this process more than a year ago and cannot remember which of the two I liked better to begin with!!

I recently re-read 'Dead Until Dark' which is what prompted me to do this book club. Because I still really enjoyed it. I love the fact that it is based in a backwater in America, but somewhere that I would have LOVED to have grown up, or would love to have my children grow up in. I love that Sookie is such a wholesome character, who cares about her family first and foremost. 

I love Charlaine Harris' style of writing, it is easy to read, but I love the development of the characters! I definitely recommend this book, and in fact the entire series to all those who enjoy Vampire Folklore! Or even the supernatural!

"Vampires should never say Uh-Oh!!" -Charlaine Harris

Sauce aka Source 

Do you see Sookie's ability to read minds as a strength or a disability? Would you want to be able to read minds?

I feel that it is so completely typical of a person who has an extraordinary talent to view it as a disability!! I can see how she would view aspects of her ability as a disability, especially with her relationships with those most close to her. However, you couldn't view (or shouldn't view) the entirety of the ability to read minds as a disability! It would be such an extraordinary talent to have, how often do you have a conversation with a person and can tell that they are holding back from telling you everything that you wish to know, or they are holding back to prevent their words from hurting your feelings, when in reality it is the brutal truth that you crave.

Why do you think Sookie was so immediately attracted to Bill?

I believe that without knowing Sookie can tell when a person is supernatural, which is why she has such a close bond with her boss Sam, it is this attraction that pulls her to Bill, any other vampire (who is mainstreaming, definitely not the Monroe vampires) could have walked into Merlotte's that night and she probably would have felt pulled towards them. I also feel that Bill has a lot to do with the attraction as well, in ways which are not yet apparent to Sookie.

Who do you think is a better match for Sookie? Bill or Sam?

Honestly I would have preferred to have seen Sookie end up with Sam. He comes across as such a home grown character, but also the typical 'boy next door', which I guess is why Sookie couldn't be satisfied with Sam.

Do you think Sookie's deal with Eric will come back to haunt her?

Unfortunately having read the entire series, I can't answer this question honestly!! But I hope it does! I have the biggest crush on Eric *Sigh*

"I snuck a look to see how Eric was taking this, and he was staring at me the same way the Monroe vampires had. Thoughtful. Hungry. 

"That's interesting," he said. "I had a psychic once. It was incredible."

"Did the psychic think so?"

Why wouldn't Sookie drink Bill's blood at the end of the book to heal herself faster? Do you think drinking blood is a valid decision in a world where vampires exist?

I think Sookie can feel herself changing too much from the consumption of the small amounts of blood she has taken so far, this scares her. She also fears that if she heals too quickly it will become obvious to the medical team who are working with her, and potentially become a problem for Bill. I also believe that she feels she deserves to be punished for her inability to capture the murderer earlier. She feels that she should have used her ability to read minds to 'find him' before he killed so many. She also feels guilty that her Grandmother had to die in her place.

With my pregnancy coming to an end, labour is coming close and this PETRIFIES me. I'm scared of the pain of childbirth and I am concerned about how the recovery will affect my ability to bond with my new baby. So if drinking vampire blood would mean an instant recovery from childbirth then, HELL YES I'd have some! 

It is almost like saying, 'If you had cancer and you had a cure, would you take the cure?' OF COURSE YOU WOULD! But then, there is always the moral question, at what point is science taking things too far, how many diseases and ailments can you cure before science gets in the way of nature. At some point every one has to grow old and die. Well, unless of course you are a vampire!!!!! 

What song would you associate with this book?

Have you read the rest of Charlaine Harris' books? And which is your favourite in the Sookie Stakehouse series?

I have read the rest of the series, and I thoroughly enjoyed all of the books. My absolute favourite was book number four ('Dead to the World'). Why? Without spoiling it for everyone else, there is a relationship that is developed in the book that I crave for the rest of the series, it is just so absolutely beautiful and perfect! *Sigh* for those of you who have read the book, you will know what I am talking about!!

Which is probably why I am so antsy for the fourth series to start on HBO!! Can't wait to see how they play out this relationship on the small screen!

"It's probably a bad indicator of your lifestyle when you miss your ex-boyfriend because he's absolutely lethal." -Charlaine Harris 'Dead to the World'

Halo

Alexandra Adornetto

Nothing much happens in the sleepy town of Venus Cove.

But everything changes when three angels, Ivy, Bethany and Gabriel, are sent from Heaven to protect the town against the gathering forces of darkness. They work hard to conceal their true identity and - most of all - their wings.

But the mission is threatened when the youngest angel, Bethany, is sent to high school and falls for the handsome school captain, Xavier Woods. Will she defy the laws of Heaven by loving him? Things come to a head when the angels realise they are not the only supernatural power in Venus Cove. There's a new kid in town and he's charming, seductive and deadly.

Worst of all, he's after Beth.

The angels and Xavier must work together to overcome the dark forces - but will Beth survive the battle?

"... a fantastic achievement!" -Sunday Age

"The author skillfully employs an imaginative approach to build atmosphere and setting..." -Magpies Magazine

So book club will be back on July 27th, and to get you ready I have some questions for you to ponder...

* Bethany describes heaven in the beginning of the book as 'Pure White'. How do you imagine heaven?

*The angels are at first overwhelmed by the textures and sensations of our world. What tastes, textures etc. Would you be most attracted to and repulsed by if it were intensified?

*Why do you think that the students were so attracted to the image of a 'Bad Boy' that they see in Jake? How did this influence the events occuring in this book?

*What song would you associate with this book?

AND don't forget if you have a book you'd love to see featured on Book Club please email me: hazellovesdesign@yahoo.com

MAY BOOK CLUB....

'Evernight' 

Claudia Gray

To be honest I initially purchased this book because it was reduced to only $5.00, it was about vampires, and I had nothing else to read!! So I thought I'd take a punt on it. And I am glad I did. There are aspects of the book that run a parallel with the 'House of Night' vampire series that I really enjoyed. 

But it also puts a unique spin on the Vampire folklore. For example the idea that there could be a school, out there somewhere, where vampires are enrolled to re-educate themselves to stop them from stagnating in society. It makes sense after reading about Anne Rice's ancient-original vampires who hide in caves for centuries at a time, after becoming bored with human life.

I loved the story and development of Bianca as she discovers her heritage, and watching how it changes and develops the relationship that she has with the other students (who considering their vampire age, can act very childish and teenage like). I also enjoy watching the budding romance between Bianca and Lucas, but I couldn't help rooting for Balthazar, an older vampire who stands by Bianca when Lucas can't or doesn't.

I also can't help feeling jealous of the ultimate beauty and worldly experience of vampires like Patrice, Bianca's room mate. It's unfair that we don't all get to live for eternity in gorgeous bodies!! I guess that is the pull of vampire folk lore.

The climax of the story is unexpected, and definitely got me going. I want to know what happens next!! It is an easy read, that you could take with you to the beach this summer. I'm surprised to see that there are four other books in this series.... Amazon here I come!!

So... what is coming up next for book club?? 

'Dead Until Dark'

Charlaine Harris

Sookie Stackhouse is a small-time cocktail waitress in small-town Louisiana. She's quiet, keeps to herself and doesn't get out much. Not because she's not pretty. She is. It's just that, well, Sookie has this sort of 'disability'. She can read minds. And that doesn't make her too dateable. And then along comes Bill: he's tall, dark and handsome -and Sookie can't 'hear' a word he's thinking. He's exactly the type of guy she's been waiting for all her life. 

But Bill has a disability of his own: He's a vampire. Worse than that, he hangs with a seriously creepy crowd, with a reputation for trouble - of the murderous kind.

And when one of Sookie's colleagues is killed, she begins to fear she'll be next...

I have some questions I want you to ponder about the book, that I'll be asking again come June 27th:

*Do you see Sookie's ability to read minds as a strength or a disability? Would you want to be able to read minds?

*Why do you think Sookie was so immediately attracted to Bill?

*Who do you think is a better match for Sookie? Bill or Sam?

*Do you think Sookie's deal with Eric will come back to haunt her?

*Why wouldn't Sookie drink Bill's blood at the end of the book to heal herself faster? Do you think drinking blood is a valid decision in a world where vampires exist?

*What song would you associate with this book?

Of course, you've probably all heard of HBO's 'True Blood', this book is what the first series is based upon. So although June's book club will be primarily be based upon 'Dead Until Dark', I am also curious to hear what True Blood-ites think of the series and the rest of the books.

If you have read the whole series... which book is your favourite?? Have you read Charlaine's other books as well? And what do you think of Charlaine as an overall writer?

Look forward to hearing your opinions on June 27th!

Also if anyone has a recommendation for book club based in the 'supernatural' theme I'd LOVE to hear about it!!! Just email me: hazellovesdesign@yahoo.com

April Book Club

Book Club

April 27th

'If you could see me now'

Cecelia Ahern

First of all, Cecelia Ahern is the author behind the movie 'P.S. I Love You', and if you've ever watched that movie you will know just how emotionally talented this author is. It was no surprise to me then, that whilst reading this book there were times that I was in tears and other moments when I was laughing out loud! Cecelia is definitely a talented author!

I loved all of the characters, everyone knows an Elizabeth and you couldn't help but feel a little sorry for young Luke in the beginning of the story. 

As for Ivan.. loved him!!! What a great suggestion to have an imaginary friend become available for a grown adult! The things he would do through the story had me weeping with tears I just wish that I had his spontaneity and youthful inspiration. Imagine being a grown up that got to hang out and act like a child all day! Wouldn't it be great to have the job of 'imaginary friend'!!

It was fascinating watching the growth of the relationship between Elizabeth and Ivan grow. Watching Elizabeth go from an adult who absolutely could not believe in such a thing as an imaginary friend to becoming the woman who feel for an imaginary friend. It is an inspirational journey.

The only aspect of the book that I disliked was the ending, I wanted it to have a slightly different ending with Elizabeth and Ivan living an alternate happy ever after. After all there must be a time when the imaginary friend has to grow up too? 

Overall absolutely LOVED this book, and would completely recommend it to others, I am now looking forward to reading more from Cecelia Ahern!!

Next months' book is...

'Evernight'

Claudia Gray

Bianca wants to escape.

She's been uprooted from her small hometown and enrolled at Evernight Academy, an eerie Gothic boarding school where the students are somehow too perfect: smart, sleek, predatory. Bianca knows she doesn't fit in.

The she meets Lucas. He's not the 'Evernight type' either, and he likes it that way. Lucas ignores the rules, stands up to the snobs and warns Bianca to be careful - even when it comes to caring about him.

'I couldn't stand it if they took it out on you,' he tells Bianca, 'and eventually they would.'

But the connection between Bianca and Lucas can't be denied. Bianca will risk anything to be with Lucas, but dark secrets are fated to tear them both apart... and to make Bianca question everything she's ever believed.

"Stephenie Meyer fans will find similar rewards in the flashes of humour; the terrifying battle between ancient, supernatural societies: and the steamy romance in which love bites aren't just a euphemism." -Booklist

"Gray's writing hooks readers from the first page and reels them in with surprising plot twists and turns... A must-have for fans of Amelia Atwater-Rhodes, Stephenie Meyer, and the like." -School Library Journal

"Teenage love, ancient hatred and a Romeo and Juliet-style feud fuel the fires in this compelling first-person drama." -Romantic Times Book Club

The Vampyre by Tom Holland

BOOK CLUB MARCH

So 'The Vampyre', a very complex book to read compared with the last couple of books on book club. I thoroughly enjoyed the complexity of the descriptive and narrative, loved the way the story linked in with the historic truth about Lord Byron and his poetry and posed questions about whether or not he could have been a real vampire!

I loved considering the European world during the period, too often we indulge in the old world of France and England that we know so much about due to the history of royalty, however it is not very often that we get to indulge our senses in the history of Turkey and other Eastern European places.

There were aspects of the Vampyre folk lore that I really enjoyed in the book, it was a much different interpretation to that of the Twilights etc that we are becoming accustomed to. There is definitely a differential between the Vampires of the 90's (Anne Rice, Tom Holland etc) and the Vampires of late. I think I prefer a mixture of the dynamics of the two, the harsh meanness of the old mixed with the metrosexual type vampire instincts of the two.

There was only one aspect of this story that I couldn't 100% grasp and that was the ending. For me it would have been better if the descendant had have been lured to the location to kill the lover instead of vice-versa (I hope that description is vague enough to not spoil the story for those of you yet to read it!

And I have to ask, what is the 'proper' spelling of this immortal? Vampyre vs Vampire?

You can purchase the book (should you so desire) here;

The Vampyre: Being the True Pilgrimage of George Gordon, Sixth Lord Byron

What next for Book Club?

"If You Could See Me Now"

by Cecelia Ahern

From the internationally bestselling author of PS, I LOVE YOU, a lively and romantic novel about two lost souls who find each other in the most unexpected way.

Everything in Elizabeth Egan’s life has its place, from the espresso cups in her gleaming kitchen to the swatches and paint pots of her interior design business. Order and precision keep life under control—and keep Elizabeth’s heart from the pain and hurt she has suffered in the past. Being a reluctant mother to her six-year-old nephew while trying to keep her business on track is a full-time job for Elizabeth, and one that leaves little room for error—or fun.
Until, one day, Ivan unexpectedly comes into their lives. The mysterious Ivan is carefree, spontaneous and always looking for adventure—everything that Elizabeth is not. If You Could See Me Now is the extraordinary tale of Ivan and Elizabeth. Of how Ivan meets the love of his life before she even sees him, and how he teaches her that life is only worth living when it's blindingly colourful and the occasional mess. Yet just when Elizabeth is starting to trust him, it turns out that Ivan isn't at all who she thought he was.
Playful and at times intensely moving, this is a novel about how seeing isn't always believing. Full of Cecelia Ahern’s trademark warmth and poignancy, If You Could See Me Now is a story of enormous heart--and just a little bit of magic.

So if you care to join in for next months book club (completely recommend it, it had we crying like a baby!) then you can purchase it here;

If You Could See Me Now

Book Club -Fallen-

APOLOGIES!! I know I am late, really, really late and for that I apologise! Connection to the internet has been sparse in our household the last couple of weeks!! Although they do say, better late than never, so here it is January's book club on the book 'Fallen'.

It was due to a recommendation from a close friend that I decided to read this book, this is the same close friend who was responsible for introducing me to the joys of 'Twilight' so from the onset I was excited about reading the book. 

However I found in the beginning, for maybe a third of the book I wasn't over excited about the book, I found it really easy to put down and distract myself from. However this completely changed for the remainder of the book, once the story was established and you could see what was going to unfold I started to get really excited about the book, I found myself making excuses to be lazy and just read the book! Which wasn't the greatest in the lead up to Christmas when I was working crazy hours at work and supposed to be coming home to pack the house ready for moving day!

In the beginning of the book, there were so many question and whilst those were answered during the story telling, I found myself closing the book with a number of new questions about the story. 

For example in the beginning I could not get my head around the attraction that Luce felt towards Daniel when he was being such an arse towards her and Cam was being such a genuine guy? It was too strange for me to get my head around! And at the end of the book, the question for me was why are Daniel and Luce linked? What does this mean for the future of Fallen Angels? And how is this important for the balance of the story and the sequel?

I still don't completely understand the significance of the shadows either?

Another aspect of the book that I didn't quite understand was the death of Luce's good friend Penn. I didn't understand the logic of her death, it seemed some what pointless and unnecessary.

What I did find when I was re-reading the book before writing this, was that there were so many hints throughout the book about what was going to eventuate, for example when they were all on detention duty and Luce is asked "So. Do you want the avenging angel, or the fleshy embracing lovers?" and when Luce describes Miss Sophia earlier on in the book she describes her to be almost otherworldly. I thought it was fun re-reading the book and discovering these aspects.

I initially stopped myself from going out to buy the sequel as I was concerned about putting my life on hold to read another book, but now I am definitely ready to pursue the book. 

Before I finish I just want to share a couple of my favourite parts of the book;

"A bright pulsing shook the room. A light so glorious it could have outshone the sun made the walls rumble and the candles rock and flicker in their tall bronze holders. The eerie tapestries flapped against the stone wall. Miss Sophia cowered, but the shuddering glow felt like a deep massage, down to Luce's very bones. And when the light condensed, spreading warmth across the room, it settled into the form Luce recognized and adored.

Daniel stood before her, in front of the altar. He was shirtless, barefoot, clad only in white linen pants. He smiled at her, then closed his eyes and spread his arms out at his sides. Then, gingerly if not to shock her, he exhaled deeply and his wings began to unfurl."

So what next for book club?

 

February 27th will be the book 'Shadows' by Amy Meredith.

Fifteen-year-old Eve Evergold is cute, sassy and enjoying a busy social life. What she doesn't know yet is that someone close to her is an evil demon that only she has the supernatural power to defeat.

She needs to work out who it is - and fast. Because although there's something very attractive about the dark side... dating a demon? PURE HELL. 

FALLEN by Lauren Kate - the official UK trailer

See you on the 27th!!

Book Club, January 27th

Fallen

Lauren Kate

What if the person you were meant to be with could never be yours?

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 bight spot in a place where cell phones are forbidden, the other students are screwups, 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.

A New York times bestseller

A USA Today bestseller

An Indie Bestseller

A Publishes Weekly Flying Start

What I am dying to know is, will you be Team Daniel or Team Cam??

www.facebook.com/fallennovels

"Tithe" by Holly Black

Tithe is a book I chose to read based on a online recommendation from people who enjoyed similar books to me. Based on the recommendation I was full of anticipation going into the book, however I feel that may be the reason that I feel a little let down by the book.

I found the book in the beginning a bit of a chore to read, I'm not sure if this was because of the use of fairy 'jargon' which was a little overwhelming to someone new to this genre and a little distracting from the story line, or because the story was a little slow to get into.

I really enjoyed the budding romance between Kaye and Roiben, I especially found the mentions of Roiben in the book a reason to keep reading. He was mean but yet something about him made you want to know more, and then you realise that maybe he isn't that nasty after all!

The relationship with Kaye and Janet (her best friend) reminded me of so many teenage BFF friendships! Which made it difficult for me to understand the point of her death later in the book. It seemed to be a pointless gesture which maybe could have been explored it a more enlightened way. That aspect of the story just wasn't developed enough for me. It did help to show the balance between the fairy-world and the mortal-world but I believe there were many more, much more creative ways that could've been done.

There were aspects of the story line that were very predictable. For example towards the end of the book Roiben gives Kaye a riddle which could save her life, you know what the answer is straight away due to the strength put on the answer earlier in the book, but yet it feels like a train wreck about to happen as you watch Kaye searching for the answer. 

So the moral of the story, don't let anticipation get the best of you, if I'd be less judgemental about how good the book was going to be before reading it I probably would've enjoyed it a lot more! To be fair I have since read the sequel, so it mustn't have been too bad if I went back for more! 

I did after reading the second book feel there were a number of sequence of events in the relationship with this book that parallel the story line in the Twilight series, through no fault of the author given that this book was published much earlier than Twilight. I guess Stephenie Meyer wasn't that creative with her story line as it seems to be used in a number of Supernatural romance novels.

Look forward to hearing your opinions on the book too!!

Book club is coming, but then, so is Christmas!!

"There was true amusement in the Queen's voice as she spoke. "Cut me and I weep tears as red as my flesh, yet my heart is made of stone. Pray tell, mortal girl, what am I?"

You are yourself. Kaye bit her lip to keep back the hysterical laughter threatening to bubble up her throat again. Okay - red skin, stone center - what matched that description? She thought she dimly remembered an old story about having someone turned to stone and then restored by tears, but she wasn't sure where that memory came from. No, riddles usually had simple, commonsense, one-word answers. They always seemed obvious once you knew the answer.

Flesh. Maybe some kind of fruit? And the stone could be a pit? Oh - a cherry. Was that supposed to be funny?

Don't forget Book Club is happening on the 27th December, see you all then!!