In My Mailbox (14)

"In my Mailbox" is a weekly meme hosted by the fantastic Kirsti "the Story Siren". Bloggers are able to post what new books they've received either by buying, borrowing, or on loan from the library throughout the past week. 

Wow! This week has totally be my favourite in the book week world! Last week I had received a couple books in the actual mail from a long forgotten Chapters order done in September, but this week I had some publishers send me books, AND some surprise books from Chapters and Walmart with some amazing deal! So without further adieu I give you my "In My Mailbox": 

Publisher Sent:

Born Wicked by Jessica Spotswood

Everybody knows Cate Cahill and her sisters are eccentric. Too pretty, too reclusive, and far too educated for their own good. But the truth is even worse: they're witches. And if their secret is discovered by the priests of the Brotherhood, it would mean an asylum, a prison ship—or an early grave. 

Desperate to find alternatives to their fate, Cate starts scouring banned books and questioning rebellious new friends, all while juggling tea parties, shocking marriage proposals, and a forbidden romance with the completely unsuitable Finn Belastra. 

Once Every Never by Lesley Livingston

Clarinet Reid is a pretty typical teenager. On the surface. She’s smart, but a bit of slacker; outgoing, but just a little insecure; not exactly a mischief-maker… but trouble tends to find her wherever she goes. Also? She unwittingly carries a centuries-old Druid Blood Curse running through her veins.

Now, with a single thoughtless act, what started off as the Summer Vacation in Dullsville suddenly spirals into a deadly race to find a stolen artifact, avert an explosive catastrophe, save a Celtic warrior princess, right a dreadful wrong that happened centuries before Clare was even born, and if there’s still time—literally—maybe even get a date. 

Half World by Hiromi Goto

Melanie Tamaki is human—but her parents aren’t. They are from Half World, a Limbo between our world and the afterlife, and her father is still there. When her mother disappears, Melanie must follow her to Half World—and neither of them may return alive. Imagine Coraline as filmed by the Japanese animator Hayao Miyazaki (Howl’s Moving Castle), or Neil Gaiman collaborating with Charles de Lint. Half World is vivid, visceral, unforgettable, a combination of prose and images that will haunt you.

Bought: Walmart (30-40% OFF)

Daughter of Smoke & Bone by Laini Taylor

Around the world, black handprints are appearing on doorways, scorched there by winged strangers who have crept through a slit in the sky. In a dark and dusty shop, a devil's supply of human teeth grown dangerously low. And in the tangled lanes of Prague, a young art student is about to be caught up in a brutal otherwordly war. 

Meet Karou. She fills her sketchbooks with monsters that may or may not be real; she's prone to disappearing on mysterious "errands"; she speaks many languages--not all of them human; and her bright blue hair actually grows out of her head that color. Who is she? That is the question that haunts her, and she's about to find out. 

The Night Circus by Erin Morgenstern

The circus arrives without warning. No announcements precede it. It is simply there, when yesterday it was not. Within the black-and-white striped canvas tents is an utterly unique experience full of breathtaking amazements. It is called Le Cirque des Rêves, and it is only open at night.

But behind the scenes, a fierce competition is underway—a duel between two young magicians, Celia and Marco, who have been trained since childhood expressly for this purpose by their mercurial instructors. Unbeknownst to them, this is a game in which only one can be left standing, and the circus is but the stage for a remarkable battle of imagination and will. Despite themselves, however, Celia and Marco tumble headfirst into love—a deep, magical love that makes the lights flicker and the room grow warm whenever they so much as brush hands. 

Chapters/Indigo (series for 50$):

The Inheritance Series by Christopher Paolini

Eragon: When young Eragon finds a polished blue stone in the forest, he thinks it is the lucky discovery of a poor farm boy; perhaps it will buy his adopted family meat for the winter. But when the stone brings a dragon hatchling, Eragon realizes he has stumbled upon a legacy nearly as old as the Empire itself. Overnight his simple life is shattered, and he is thrust into a perilous new world of inescapable destiny, magical forces, and powerful people. With only an ancient sword and the instruction of an old,mysterious, hermit storyteller for guidance, Eragon and the fledgling dragon must navigate the dangerous terrain and dark enemies of an Empire ruled by a Emperor whose evil and power knows no bounds. Can Eragon take up the mantle of the legendary Dragon Riders? The fate of the Empire may rest in his hands….

Eldest: Darkness falls ...Despair abounds ...Evil reigns ...Eragon and his dragon, Saphira, have just saved the rebel state from destruction by the mighty forces of King Galbatorix, cruel ruler of the Empire. Now Eragon must travel to Ellesmera, land of the elves, for further training in magic and swordsmanship, the vital skills of the Dragon Rider. It is the journey of a lifetime, filled with awe-inspiring new places and people, each day a fresh adventure. But chaos and betrayal plague him at every turn, and Eragon isn't sure whom he can trust. Meanwhile, his cousin Roran must fight a new battle back home in Carvahall - one that puts Eragon in even graver danger. Will the king's dark hand strangle all resistance? Eragon may not escape with even his life.

Brisingr: OATHS SWORN . . . loyalties tested . . . forces collide. Following the colossal battle against the Empire’s warriors on the Burning Plains, Eragon and his dragon, Saphira, have narrowly escaped with their lives. Still there is more at hand for the Rider and his dragon, as Eragon finds himself bound by a tangle of promises he may not be able to keep. First is Eragon’s oath to his cousin Roran: to help rescue Roran’s beloved, Katrina, from King Galbatorix’s clutches. But Eragon owes his loyalty to others, too. The Varden are in desperate need of his talents and strength—as are the elves and dwarves. When unrest claims the rebels and danger strikes from every corner, Eragon must make choices— choices that take him across the Empire and beyond, choices that may lead to unimagined sacrifice.

Inheritance: Long months of training and battle have brought victories and hope, but they have also brought heartbreaking loss. And still, the real battle lies ahead: they must confront Galbatorix. When they do, they will have to be strong enough to defeat him. And if they cannot, no one can. There will be no second chances. The Rider and his dragon have come further than anyone dared to hope. But can they topple the evil king and restore justice to Alagaësia? And if so, at what cost?

I would have had two other books on this weeks "In My Mailbox" but apparently when they went to ship them to me, there was a book shortage and there wasn't enough to be shipped out. How may I ask is there a book shortage? *sigh* well I guess that is what I get for thinking I'd get my books on time for once, lol! 

SO, what did you all get in your mailbox this week?

Breaking Dawn: Off Screen Styles!

People's Magazine.com has done an amazing spread of Breaking Dawn Part 1 pieces; everything from the review of the movie release last night to twilight inspired must have tattoos! The one thing I found exceptionally well done for a twilight fan like myself was the style spread they did of some of the stars of the Twilight Saga.

We see all the stars onscreen and on red carpet's but when do we every really get to see their true style unless it is a blurry photo from a tabloid stating they've gain 10 pounds or are checking into what looks to be a shady hotel (- breaking news I know!) So I thought I'd take a page (or two) out of the Peoples.com book and show all you twilight fans out there some of the styles our beloved Twilight actors are sporting! The link below will bring you to the People's Magazine website where you can check out more on their styles, and other Twilight news related articles. 

People's Magazine: Twilight Styles

Robert Pattinson (RPatz): 

Sporting his known style of jeans, witty t-shirts, and of course a hat! I don't think I have ever seen an off screen photo of him where we wasn't wearing a hat, except perhaps at award ceremonies. I must admit it is a good look for him. Very casual, yet alluring and attractive. 

Ashely Greene:

Ashley Greene has always amazed me by looking so well put together, and nothing like her character in the Twilight Saga, Alice Cullen. She is a beautiful actress off screen always sporting some sort of dress may it be red carpet material or not. I absolutely love her last photo sporting heels, black skinnies, and a black coat with a dash of colour in the scarf, and purse. She has always been seen as a fun and feminine style icon adding eclectic accessories where need be.

Kristen Stewart:

Casual, sensual and comfy - are three words I would definitely describe Kristen Stewarts off screen wardrobe as. She can always been seen sporting a pair of converse running shoes may it be with a red carpet dress, or just walking down the street. I would say my own personal style is closest to Kristen just because it is such a comfy almost summery look. Very NOT Bella Swan, but still has a hint of uniqueness! 

Taylor Lautner:

What could we say about Mr. Taylor Lautner - honestly whenever I see him he is usually wearing a well fitted suit of some sort! And the above photo does him justice. He looks absolutely gorgeous when he wears suits, may it be tuxedo material or not! Although I would have loved to see him sporting some jeans, and a t-shirt of some sort for a more relaxed look but this will do!

Other actors were added to the online Peoples Magazine website so I suggest you go and check out some of the other styles. The four above I thought would do nicely for this post just because it truly sheds a great deal of light on the actors different styles! We have relaxed, comfy, and refined t-shirt orientated styles like those of RPatz and Kristen Stewart but for Ashely Greene and Taylor Lautner they can always been seen in fun, yet mature clothing may it be red carpet glamour or not. 

What do you all think? Do you like their off screen looks more than their on screen styles?

'Tis the Season: A Y.A. Shoppers Guide (1)

Well it is that time of year again! It is not just fall, nor the early Christmas season, it is book and gamer’s heaven! Throughout the months of October through until early December many anticipated novels and video games are being released! If you are a significant other who suffers from gamer and bookie widowism than I feel for you, for I am a gamer widow, and my significant other is a bookie widow. What pray tell is a gamer or bookie widow you may ask well it can be defined as an individual who has a significant other obsessed with either video games, or books to the sheer point of not seeing them for days on end due to the fact they are engulfed in their pre, or post game playing, or post book reading. If you think you may be suffering from this, there is no cure. All you can do is just sit and endure the either quiet revelation that you get control over the remote control for a couple days, or that highflying Assassins, futuristic soldiers, or speed driven adrenalin junkies has commandeered your TV.

Today November 15^th marks significant release of four anticipated video games in the Young Adult world, and two much expected book publications as well. Although I know the majority of members on this blog are more interested in the book publications for today, the video game releases could be helpful for that tough gamer on your Christmas list!

1. Need for Speed: the Run
2.  Saints Row 3
3. Halo Anniversary Edition: Combat Evolved
4.  Assassins Creed: Revelations

All four of these games were available for the midnight pick this morning at your closest EB Games, Future Shop or Best Buy. I was at one of them. Assassin’s Creed: Revelation’s has been a buzz ever since it was released this morning at midnight. It is the final installment of the game and finally brings Desmond’s journey to an end. It is a fast paced historically accurate game, with highflying action, superb graphics and tons of multiplayer options! This game is a definite MUST BUY for any gamer looking for an action packed, revenge driven adventure through the Byzantine Empire. Although the only down side is that if you are not already a fan and haven’t heard of it before, there are three previous games beforehand that you must complete to full understand what is going on.

The Halo Anniversary Edition on the other hand is in celebration of Halo turning ten this year! It has up the ante with new and improved graphics, battle maps and storyline. Most male gamers on your Christmas list will revel in your awesomeness if you surprise them with this new multiplayer game. It is a new and improved take on a ten-year-old game! Futuristic soldiers, out of this world maps, and alien advance weaponry will bring any first person shooter gamer on your list to their knees.

Both of the above games are very different in graphics and storyline’s but still will bring that much needed relief to any Christmas list.

Also available today in the book world was, “The Pledge” by Kimberly Derting, and “Shatter Me” by Tahereh Mafi. But I would like to bring attention to two other books out this pas week, “Inheritance” by Christopher Paolini, and “Crossed” by Ally Condie. Any four of these books would be a delight to any book obsessed Young Adult on your Christmas list! Some of these books though are either the final installment in the series or the second in the series.

“The Pledge” by Kimberly Derting: “In the violent country of Ludania, the language you speak determines what class you are, and there are harsh punishments if you forget your place-looking a member of a higher class in the eye can result in immediate execution. Seventeen-year-old Charlaina (Charlie for short) can understand all languages, a dangerous ability she's been hiding her whole life. Her only place of release is the drug-filled underground club scene, where people go to shake off the oppressive rules of the world they live in. There, she meets a beautiful and mysterious boy who speaks a language she's never heard, and her secret is almost exposed. Through a series of violent upheavals, it becomes clear that Charlie herself is the key to forcing out the oppressive power structure of her kingdom…”

 “Shatter Me” by Tahereh Mafi: “It has been exactly 265 days since Juliette last touched someone - The last time she did, it was an accident, but The Reestablishment locked her up for murder. No one knows why Juliette's touch is fatal. As long as she doesn't hurt anyone else, no one really cares. The world is too busy crumbling to pieces to pay attention to a 17-year-old girl. Diseases are destroying the population, food is hard to find, birds don't fly anymore, and the clouds are the wrong color. The Reestablishment said their way was the only way to fix things, so they threw Juliette in a cell. Now so many people are dead that the survivors are whispering war-- and The Reestablishment has changed its mind. Maybe Juliette is more than a tortured soul stuffed into a poisonous body. Maybe she's exactly what they need right now.”

“Inheritance” by Christopher Paolini: “Not so very long ago, Eragon-Shadeslayer, Dragon Rider-was nothing more than a poor farm boy, and his dragon, Saphira, only a blue stone in the forest. Now the fate of an entire civilization rests on their shoulders Long months of training and battle have brought victories and hope, but they have also brought heartbreaking loss. And still, the real battle lies ahead: they must confront Galbatorix. When they do, they will have to be strong enough to defeat him. And if they cannot, no one can. There will be no second chances. The Rider and his dragon have come further than anyone dared to hope. But can they topple the evil king and restore justice to Alagaësia? And if so, at what cost? This is the much-anticipated, astonishing conclusion to the worldwide bestselling Inheritance cycle”

“Crossed” by Ally Condie: “The hotly awaited second book in the dystopian Matched trilogy! In search of a future that may not exist and faced with the decision of who to share it with, Cassia journeys to the Outer Provinces in pursuit of Ky - taken by the Society to his certain death - only to find that he has escaped, leaving a series of clues in his wake. Cassia's quest leads her to question much of what she holds dear, even as she finds glimmers of a different life across the border. But as Cassia nears resolve and certainty about her future with Ky, an invitation for rebellion, an unexpected betrayal, and a surprise visit from Xander - who may hold the key to the uprising and, still, to Cassia's heart - change the game once again. Nothing is as expected on the edge of Society, where crosses and double crosses make the path more twisted than ever!”

Any four of these books would delight to a Young Adult obsessed reader as a Christmas gift or even just a surprise! Each one of the books as a unique style of writing, amazing characters and storyline’s that will entrance you into an entirely different world!

This post is one of four others to help all our fellow members, and readers along with any Christmas present’s they may be stuck on for the Y.A. on their list! Not only books, and video games will be posted here – Y.A. trends in clothing, shoes, and music will be discussed for the Christmas season, with a special post about the miscellaneous trends taking our youth by storm! (Such as Featherhair Extensions! – I’m totally getting some at my next hair dresser appointment!)

RazOrbill.com: Facebook Meets Goodreads.com

Hey there all my loyal fans and followers, (YAY! We're up to 70!) I just thought I would do a little post informing some, if not all of you, that there is an exciting new website starting up in the book publishing world. If you are fans of authors like: Richelle Mead, Andrea Cremer, Jay Asher, Sarah Dessen, or Charlaine Harris, then this new website is definitely for you!

RazOrbill has crossed the boarder and come to Canada! This new and exciting website is just starting out in the blogging, and book world but the company is not new at all! A section of the publishers, Penguin Canada/USA - RazOrbill, is driven towards the Young Adult audience. It has forums, groups, and discussion all driven towards the books, authors and content affiliated with Young Adult Readers. Not only does it star authors and books from RazOrbill, but also can and will touch on book and author trends from such publishers as HarperTeen, HarlequinTeen and Simon & Schuster Canada.

Discussions, groups, and forums are driven by bloggers like myself and you, discussing topics like: Dystopian novels, authors, and characters; Vampire Academy and Bloodlines by Richelle Mead; All About Austen (Jane Austen); and even Fictional Characters we can't help but Fall For! It is still a new website but with help from bloggers and book lovers a like, I am sure we can really spread the word and make it a fast growing community!

The website has a ton of personality due to the way you can create your own personal profile page! It has sections to start your own discussions and groups; to blog about books you've received, reviewed and love; but also a way to connect with young adult enthusiasts like yourself! In a sense it has status updates like Facebook and Twitter (limiting you to only 140 characters per updated) but also adding in the touch of a personal blog, where you can add photo's, video's and posts!

If this sounds like a website you'd like to join the URL below brings you directly too it. You can sign in by becoming a member allowing you to access all discussions, posts, video's and news uploaded daily by every member! It truly is a website driven by its members and participants. You can become a full member blogging and posting everyday (like myself) or a casual member checking in once or twice a week - it is up to you!

                                        URL: RazOrbill

In My Mailbox (13)

"In my Mailbox" is a weekly meme hosted by the fantastic Kristi "the Story Siren". Bloggers are able to post what new books they've received either by buying, borrowing, or on loan from the library throughout the past week.

Well another week of school has gone by, and I am falling behind epically on my reading! Ugh only one more paper and one more exam and then it is Christmas break and I can read the 20 odd books on my "to read" shelf! Although this week I was still able to receive actual books in the mail! I had ordered two hardcopy books one for my boyfriend and one for myself, BUT seeing as my boyfriend has a huge paper to do and won't be able to read the book for quite some time I am going to commandeer it for myself! lol.

Bought:

Last Sacrifice by Richelle Mead

"The astonishing final novel in Richelle Mead's epic series!"

"Murder. Love. Jealousy. And the ultimate sacrifice. Now, with Rose on trial for her life and Lissa first in line for the Royal Throne, nothing will ever be the same between them."

I have been waiting patiently forever to get this book in the mail! I think it has been like a month of so since I finished the last book, and I have sitting on the edge of my seat dying to know how it all ends, so either this week or next I will finally know! 

The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo by Steig Larsson 

"Mikael Blomkvist, a once-respected financial journalist, watches his professional life rapidly crumble around him. Prospects appear bleak until an unexpected (and unsettling) offer to resurrect his name is extended by an old-school titan of Swedish industry. The catch--and there's always a catch--is that Blomkvist must first spend a year researching a mysterious disappearance that has remained unsolved for nearly four decades. With few other options, he accepts and enlists the help of investigator Lisbeth Salander, a misunderstood genius with a cache of authority issues. Little is as it seems in Larsson's novel, but there is at least one constant: you really don't want to mess with the girl with the dragon tattoo."

This is definitely not something I would usually find myself drawn too but there has been so much hype around it, and I want something outside of my comfort zone, so this seems to be a perfect choice! I will definitely be letting all you know what I thought about it after I am done! 

So what did you all receive this week in the mail? Either physically, or in theory!

Theme Thursday (2): A Female Name

Theme Thursdays is a fun weekly event that will be open from one thursday to the next over at "Reading Between Pages". Anyone can participate in it. The rules are simple:

• A theme will be posted each week (on Thursday’s)
• Select a conversation/snippet/sentence from the current book you are reading
• Mention the author and the title of the book along with your post
• It is important that the theme is conveyed in the sentence (you don’t necessarily need to have the word)
  Ex: If the theme is KISS; your sentence can have “They kissed so gently” or “Their lips touched each other” or “The smooch was so passionate”

Well I thought I would start up "Theme Thursday" again seeing as I have more time during the week to post almost everyday and this weekly meme is really fun! It gives the readers a chance to see a different side of a book through different themes!

This Weeks Theme: A Female Name - Claire

"I believe you," he said firmly. "I dinna understand it a bit---not yet---but I believe you. Claire, I believe you! Listen to me! There's the truth between us, you and I, and whatever ye tell me, I shall believe it." He gave me a gentle shake. "It doesna matter what it is. You've told me. That's enough for now. Be still, mo duinne. Lay your head and rest. You'll tell me the rest of it later. And I'll believe you."

Outlander by Diana Gabaldon

Page 551

My Book Boyfriend (5): Jamie Fraser

"Boys in books are just better. Right? lol" ... The meme, Book Boyfriend is brought to us by the fabulous author of "The Unread Reader" Missie. This meme is just for fun! Likeness represented are all fictional fantasies. This meme happens every Wednesday although it is open to "link up" from Wednesday to Wednesday. I'm earning my bragging rights for this weeks Boyfriend, how about you? ENJOY!

To my surprise my boyfriend one night after work had bought me the anniversary edition of "Outlander" by Diana Gabaldon. Apparently the copy I originally had was beaten up so badly he didn't know if I was keeping it or not (what a sweetheart, hehe) - so he decided that it was due time for a new edition; hardcover, red, and has one of those silk thread bookmarks. So today our Book Boyfriend of the week is none other than: Jamie Alexander Malcom MacKenzie Fraser.

Jamie Fraser: Diana Gabaldon has created such a wonderful love story that reaches throughout Scottish rebellion, war, and history right into the depth of what romance should be all about. Claire Beauchamp Randall and James (Jamie) Alexander Malcom MacKenzie Fraser are the two protagonist in Gabaldon's spell binding historical love story. This week's Book Boyfriend is Jamie Fraser; Scotland's very own rebel, wanted man, and savoir (of sorts). We first lay eye's on Jamie, when Claire is captured by his "band of brothers" in Highland Scotland 1743. He is the youngest of the group, about 25 or so, with fiery red hair, ocean blue eye's with a lean muscular build (being a rebel is hard work apparently, hehe). He is unlike the other men in their group; more gentle, and calm around Claire - he takes his time with her as she adjusts to being in a different era of history, and has the utmost understand for her when she tells him who and where she is from. He has a deep protective personality when it comes to Claire, and her well being - to the point of sending her away back to her own time when she and their unborn child was in the utmost danger (heartbreaking!). The most important and alluring thing about Jamie is his absolutely devotion to Claire. You will never know or read about a man so in love with someone, other than Jamie. Even through time itself, his love for her draws her back to him many years after they were so brutally torn apart. His romance, personality, and desirable dashing good looks is all you need to know about this delicious Scotsman. 

Stats:

• Boyish good looks
• Fiery red hair
• Ocean blue eye's
• Lean muscular build
• Gaelic accent
• Gentle hands; strong arms
• Well ... *cough* endowed - hehe!
• Protective and dangerous with a blade
• Good with horses and children
• Will only ever truly love Claire (they are made for one another)

NOTES:  The individual I have chosen for the delicious Jamie Fraser is none other than Gabriel Aubrey. I believe he is a model of sorts, and is either significant other or husband of Halley Berry (lucky woman! hehe) - Let me draw attention to the last photo, it is PURE Jamie Fraser! Red hair, blue eye's and Scotland's own sex god! 

Quotes:

 

Claire: I had one last try. "Does it bother you that I'm not a virgin?" He hesitated a moment before answering. 

Jamie: "Well, no," he said slowly, "so long as it doesna bother you that I am." He grinned at my drop-jawed expression, and backed toward the door. "Reckon one of us should know what they're doing," he said. The door closed softly behind him; clearly the courtship was over.

Outlander; Page 255

Claire: "Where did you learn to kiss like that?" I said, a little breathless. He grinned and pulled me close again.
Jamie: "I said I was a virgin, not a monk," he said, kissing me again. "If I find I need guidance, I'll ask."
Outlander; Page 282

Claire: As yet too hungry and too clumsy for tenderness, still he made love with a sort of unflagging joy that made me think that male virginity might be a highly underrated commodity.
Outlander; Page 287

Jamie: "I meant it, ye know," he said softly. "I will protect you. From him, or anyone else. To the last drop of my blood, mo duinne."
Claire: "Mo duinne?" I asked, a little disturbed by the intensity of this speech. I didn't want to be responsible for any of his blood being spilt, last drop or first.

Jamie: "It means 'my brown one.'" He raised a lock of hair to his lips and smiled, with a look in his eyes that started all the drops of my own blood chasing each other through my veins. "Mo duinne," he repeated softly. "I have been longing to say that to you.

Outlander; Page 312-313

Jamie: "I'm sorry," Jamie said. "I dinna mean to wake ye, lass." 

Claire: "What are you doing? Why are you awake?" I squinted over my shoulder at him. It was still dark, but my eyes were so accustomed that I could see the faintly sheepish expression on his face. He was wide awake, sitting on a stool by the side of the bed, his plaid flung around him for warmth.

Jamie: "It's only....well, I dreamed you were lost, and I couldna find ye. It woke me, and....I wanted to look at ye, is all. To fix ye in my mind, to remember while I'm gone. I turned back the quilt; I'm sorry you were chilled."

Outlander; Page 513