Monday, April 30, 2012

U is for Uniting the Factions

One of our favorite parts about INSURGENT by Veronica Roth was getting to know all of the factions.

We were already familiar with the selfless albeit bland lifestyle of the Abnegation.

And who can forget getting to know Dauntless in the first book-- jumping off trains and buildings, that awesome game of capture the flag, and all those times they beat the living daylights out of each other.

This book picks up right where Divergent left off with a ragtag group of Dauntless and Abnegation heading toward Amity headquarters. The friction between these two seemingly opposite groups sets the story on edge from page one.

When we meet Amity, it's simultaneously interesting and infuriating how differently some people can react to the same situation. I love books that make me think, and Insurgent works hard to make you put yourself in each faction's shoes in an attempt to understand their choices.

I think my favorite new Faction to meet was CANDOR. They see the world in black and white-- literally. There headquarters is styled in black and white to show their intolerance for that grey area in between. There is truth and there is lie. And we get a chance to see Candor in action when they use a truth serum to question Tris and Four! Just wait until you read it-- THAT SCENE IS AWESOME!

Erudite-- These guys are cold, calculating and downright creepy! And you'll get to know them in Insurgent a heck of a lot more than you want to!

We meet all these factions, and for the first time get to really see them interact with each other, but simultaneously the factions themselves are falling apart. The clearly defined lines between groups start to shift and change, and the war does more than divide factions-- it divides friends and family. And with the Factionless joining the fight-- all bets are off and it's every man for himself.

And, you can join the craziness and find out which faction you would be in!  Be sure to visit The Divergent Series on Facebook (click on the pictures below) and take your quiz!


Plus, don't forget to support your friendly neighborhood Erudite and click on our links!



Sunday, April 29, 2012

O is for OUTSTANDING CHARACTERS

Day 2 of our celebration of Four is OUTSTANDING CHARACTERS.  We threw together a little poem that celebrates some of our favorite and not so favorites from Insurgent.

Ode to Insurgent

Full of characters you don't want to miss
To peak your interest we'll start with Tris.

She's smart, selfless and brave.
No matter the fear, she'll never cave.

Strong yet broken and full of pain,
She must face the darkness if she is to remain.

Call her Dauntless. Stiff or Divergent,
But more than anything, call her resilient.

And what about Caleb, the brother so smart,
In Insurgent you'll see straight to his heart.

And then there's Christina who lost her love Will,
She'll break down your heart with the the pain that she feels.

And you'll see more Peter, whose intentions are gray,
Whose side will he be on? Can you trust what he'll say?

We can't forget Jeanine, who is full of lies,
She'll hold nothing back no matter who dies.

Then there is the fear that Eric instills,
He cares nothing about the Divergent he kills.

And of course there is Marcus, the sinister dad,
Will we find out that maybe he isn't so bad?

Now we'll quit stalling, for none can ignore,
The dreamy and steamy one they call FOUR!

He's Dauntless and Sexy and hungers for peace,
But what will he sacrifice for the factions to cease?

He's perfect for Tris, both loyal and true,
He steps up to the plate, a hero through and through.

We also must mention new characters we meet,
Big roles or small, some won't take a backseat.

Some of these characters, we all adore,
Others are evil, and easy to abhor.

The greatness of this book is hard to beat,
So preorder your copy now! You're in for a treat!

**Don't forget to support Team Erudite!**







Saturday, April 28, 2012

F is for Fear Landscapes

With only FOUR days left until the release of Insurgent, we wanted to celebrate some of our favorite things about this series and  INSURGENT specifically.

First up in our FOUR day celebration is the FEAR LANDSCAPES!

We thought it might be fun to take your into what our own fear landscapes might be like.

Baby Sister Brittany
(I used to have recurring nightmares about this fear. Seriously.)

It's storming outside. And I don't mean storming, as in a little bit of rain. I mean apocalyptic disaster , semi-trucks flying through the air, the whole world is flooded, and we're all gonna die-- kind of storming. I'm alone with my niece Emily, sheltering her from the wind and the rain trying to make it to shelter, when I notice a hand sticking up out of the flood waters. My Gryffindor side flips on, and I know I have to help the person. I put down my niece, and tell her to stay put.  I battle against the wind, until I'm  on a stairwell that leads down toward the flooded Earth. I reach a hand out, trying to grab the hand, but it's wet and slippery, and I can't get a grip. Then suddenly, the hand comes to life and latches onto my wrist. The storm disappears like it was some virtual reality, and I look up to see the person that goes with the hand.

It's a hobo.

A hobo with ninja skills apparently because he flies into the air and perches on my back.

(Now, normally, in my dream this is the place where I run around screaming, and my niece and I manage to lose the Hobo and hide in my car, but for my landscape, I must embrace the fear).

I flail and scream, haunted by my fear of Hobos (Hobophobia, if you will) brought to life. I try to shake the Hobo off, but he has a solid grip on my back. But then, I realize that this can't be real.

1. No one can perch that well on someone's shoulder.
2. The whole it's storming/then it's not fiasco.
3. Clearly, I'm Divergent, and am aware when in simulations (:D).

So, then, because I know I have to. I embrace my fear... by embracing the Hobo.

I reach my arms up, and wrap them around the scruffy, unwashed neck of Hobo-Perching-Ninja-Man. And then miraculously, the simulation ends.

(And then I die of a heart attack, because seriously guys... Hobos terrify me).

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

Middle Sis Jenn
(You might think I'm joking, but ask my sisters....I've been terrified since before I can remember!)

I open my eyes and I'm in a dark room.  The silence is deafening and a chill runs down my back (ok, seriously, just got the chills).  Sitting down, I fold into myself trying not to let my paranoid side kick in, but, like anyone who finds themself in a dark room, the terror slowly starts.

First, it hits my toes.  Fuzziness.  I shudder and then its gone--whisked away by a brush of wind.  But how can there be wind in dark, windowless room?  Then I hear it, the low buzz of a vent.  Then, it hits my calves.  Again...the briefest feel of fuzziness and then it's gone again.  I can feel the bile rise in my throat and I start chanting to myself, "You're okay.  You're okay.  You're okay." 

Only, I'm not.

In rapid succession, I start feeling the fuzzies everywhere--on my toes, legs, arms....it's like a million hairy spider legs crawling over my body at once.  But that can't be it.  Because in that fear simulation, I can see the spiders.  No, this must be worse.

Before I know it, the room is full up to my knees with the fuzzies.  "Please no, Please no, Please no," become my mantra, but I already know what it is that is slowly devouring me.  And then the lights start to flicker...dim at first. A brief glimpse of white.  Another chill runs down my spine.  And then they're up to my waist.  At this point, I seriously start to panic.  I push my way through the river of cotton balls (yes, cotton balls) and start banging my hands agains the wall. 

This isn't happening.  I am not going to drown in a river of cotton balls!  The room continues to fill--higher, higher, higher until they are on my neck....up, up, up.

"Breathe, Jennifer....control it.  It's just a simulation.  Breathe.  Cotton balls don't just appear out of thin air--unless you're Hermione, and that's a fantasy--not a fear landscape.  Embrace the fear."

So....I close my ears--mind over matter.  I grab one of the cotton balls and will it to be gobstopper.  With one last deep breath, I pop it into my mouth--yum!  Strawberry!

And...the simulation ends.  (with Four standing beside me....I wish)

(Okay...now don't make fun.  The feel of cotton balls totally creeps me out!  To this day I have never been able to touch one....what do I use to remove nail polish you ask?  Toilet paper.  That's right.  Good old TP!)

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*



Hi, it's Big Sis Amy here.  Since I have 3 kids most of my fears are way to serious and disturbing to write up on our blog.  So, here goes with one of my not so serious fearscapes.

It's been a long year.  Between homeschooling, kids sports, other activities and a toddler in the midst of the terrible two's. I am in great need of a vacation.  My wonderful husband, to thank me for all my hard work, has graciously bought me a ticket to ALA in Anaheim this summer.  Baby Sister Britt and Middle Sis Jenn are both joining me on the trip.

We arrive at the airport on a steamy Texas afternoon.  It's so hot outside you can see the rays radiating off the asphalt.  As I walk into the airport, I feel myself slowly start to relax.  Five days kids free, with no responsibilities, and I can barely contain myself.  I can go to the bathroom without someone sitting there staring at me the whole time.  I will be able to eat my food before it gets cold and read a book with no interruptions except maybe Baby Sis's extraordinarily loud laugh. 

We hop a plane, land safely in Anaheim, and head for our hotel.  We're all exhausted after a long day of traveling.  We quickly get ready for bed, and the only teeth I have to brush tonight are mine!  I lay down and think about the coming days, meeting authors, publishers, and of course the ARCS!  

All of the sudden I feel something crawling on my leg, I throw the covers back, but there's nothing.  Hmm, I think, must be sleeping in a new place.  So, I lay back down and feel the crawling sensation again.  I am starting to get freaked out.  Having 3 kids, I have acquired a germaphobia of a sort, so anything foreign completely freaks me out.  I rip the sheets completely from the bed, and that's when I see them.  They are everywhere!  Crawling on top of each other to try to get closer to me.  There's so many that it looks like they are reproducing as I stand there watching.  I hear the sink and shower knobs turn in the bathroom completely on their own.  I run in to see what is happening and more are flowing from the sink and falling from the shower.  I hear a loud crash and the light fixture has crashed to floor.  More start to rush out of the fixture.  My skin is itching all over.  I look down, and they covering my legs up to my knees.  I feel the fear rising up in my throat.  I'm not going to make it.  I'm going to pass out or throw up.  There's nowhere to escape.  There are bed bugs everywhere.  They are after me.  I start to panic, but deep down I know that if I don't do something, I am going to become their lunch.  I remember seeing a fire extinguisher in the hall.  I rush out to grab it.  I come back in with the gun of the extinguisher cocked and loaded.  I pull the trigger and freeze all the bed bugs in a single flash.  (and the simulation ends)  

**Now I must go take a shower to wash away the willies I just gave myself!**

Now, please support Team Erudite, creating Fear Landscapes for everyone since 2011!





Friday, April 27, 2012

Insurgent by Veronica Roth

Insurgent by Veronica Roth
Published by Katherine Tegen Books
On shelves May 1st, 2012
Reviewed by: Big, Middle and Baby Sis
Sister's Say:  This installment of the Divergent Series is filled with dramatic events that will torment and cement your excitement of this figment of Veronica Roth's imaginationment!

One choice can transform you—or it can destroy you. But every choice has consequences, and as unrest surges in the factions all around her, Tris Prior must continue trying to save those she loves—and herself—while grappling with haunting questions of grief and forgiveness, identity and loyalty, politics and love.

Tris's initiation day should have been marked by celebration and victory with her chosen faction; instead, the day ended with unspeakable horrors. War now looms as conflict between the factions and their ideologies grows. And in times of war, sides must be chosen, secrets will emerge, and choices will become even more irrevocable—and even more powerful. Transformed by her own decisions but also by haunting grief and guilt, radical new discoveries, and shifting relationships, Tris must fully embrace her Divergence, even if she does not know what she may lose by doing so.

New York Times bestselling author Veronica Roth's much-anticipated second book of the dystopian Divergent series is another intoxicating thrill ride of a story, rich with hallmark twists, heartbreaks, romance, and powerful insights about human nature.


Oh Insurgent how I love thee, let me count the ways!  I know we said this last year with Divergent, but we are going to say it again for Insurgent, THIS IS THE BEST BOOK OF THE YEAR!!!  Veronica Roth has out done herself with Insurgent, if that is even possible.  Nothing about this book falls into the 2nd book slump.  In fact, it might have completely OBLITERATED it!

Insurgent really digs down into the nitty gritty of humanity.  It is rampant with betrayal, grief, guilt, violence, prejudice, torture and depravity.  Get ready to get slapped in the face with emotion.  I was honestly in constant terror as I read this book.  I didn't know who to trust.  At one point, I didn't even know if I could even trust Tris or Four.  The emotions are so high, and so many decisions were based on these emotions, I didn't know who to put my faith in.   Veronica definitely does not shy away in the face of war.  She even caused my own emotions to war against each other.  She gives us a true depiction of what I imagine war to be like, mother against child, friend against friend, never being able to trust a single soul.   There were times at which I felt like my heart had been ripped from my chest and other times at which it melted into complete mushiness.

Tris is amazing in this book!  I loved being inside of her head and seeing how she faced and dealt with the harrowing situation that was thrust upon her.  My heart broke for her as I watched her struggle with the grief and fear of losing her parents, both her factions and the world that she had been raised in.  She bravely faces down debilitating circumstances and makes choices that no one should ever have to face.  Tris matures, grows and actually becomes braver, smarter and more selfless through it all.  She embraces her divergence.  

FOUR!  That's pretty much all I have to say, and I've already sold everyone on reading this book!  We loved him in Divergent, but you will fall even harder for him in Insurgent.  Tris and Four fell in love in Divergent, but adversity many times leaves people changed.  So much of this book was a picture of Four and Tris finding their way back to each other through the fall out that Divergent left them with.     They worked hard and fought for their relationship, and we as the reader saw them going from a "me and you" to an "us".  They proved themselves to be dauntless even in the face of love, sometimes the scariest thing of all.

In Divergent, we see a huge part of Dauntless and Abnegation.  In Insurgent, we are introduced to all the other factions.  We see their leaders, what motivates them, and how they are trying to find their place in the midst of this war.  We also are given a first hand introduction into the world of the factionless which happens to be one of my favorite parts of the book.

This review was really hard to write because nothing I can say will ever do Insurgent justice.  At one point in the novel, tears were streaming down my face while I was doing a fist pump in the air!  That pretty much sums up how I felt about this book.    She weaves words together in a way that leaves me breathless, crying and cheering all in the same moment!  One moment, her words are abundant and poignantly beautiful while the next they are sparse and shatteringly silent.  In both instances, she manages to pack a punch and use the words that perfectly represent the emotions of that moment.  It's a rare talent and one that leaves me speechless.  I bow down to you, Veronica, the Queen of YA Lit!  


Thursday, April 26, 2012

Shine by Jeri Smith-Ready

Shine by Jeri-Smith Ready
Releases: May 1st
Simon Pulse
Thank you to Jeri & Fictitious Delicious for the ARC
Reviewed by: AmyG (big sis)
Sister's Say:  A Shiney, Shocking, Shattering Conclusion

Shine (Shade, #3)
In this dramatic conclusion to the Shade trilogy, Aura and Zachary’s relationship sizzles as the secrets of the Shift are revealed.
Life can change in an instant, and no one understands that better than Aura. It’s been almost a year since her boyfriend tragically died. She’s finally letting go of Logan’s violet-hued ghost, but not her search to uncover the truth about her past.
As the first in a generation that can see ghosts, Aura is convinced she has a connection to the Shift. She’s trusted Zachary, ever patient and ever by her side, with all that she knows. But when the government threatens his life in an attempt to learn Aura’s secrets, she will stop at nothing to protect herself and the one she loves...even if that means betraying her own heart.

First off, this is the 3rd book in a trilogy.  While my review is spoiler free for Shine it is not spoiler free for the first two book, Shade and Shift.

Hmmm, how to begin!  Ever since the Crush Tourney last summer, I feel like Zach, Logan and Aura have been such a huge part of our lives!  Zach tore through the tournament like the amazing Scotsman that he is and nearly upset the wildly popular Jace.  Gosh, seriously, it's hard to find the words to say about his book.  First off, there has been so many times when a final book in the series has been such a disappointment.  THIS IS NOT THE CASE HERE!!!  Shine is a breath-taking and beautiful conclusion to this wonderful series.

My heart broke so many times in this book!  Seriously, the 1st half the book and many times through the last half, I was basically just in constant tears!  Not to worry though, Jeri will heal that broken heart a million times over, but be prepared for an emotional roller coaster.  It's hard watching characters you love and feel like you know so well go through struggles, but as most of us know from life, adversity strengthens us and turns us into who we are.  Instead of falling apart in the midst of tragedy, loss and pain, Aura steps outside of that emotion and becomes the heroine of her story.  She doesn't let the pain take her, but goes out a fights it head on, becoming all the stronger.  Then, when she's on the other side of it all, it makes the reward so much sweeter.  This last book is definitely Aura's coming into her own or coming of age story.  She finally knows what and who she wants and is ready to fight and sacrifice everything for that goal.  These are always my favorite type of stories!  

So, Zach in this novel.  Oh wow, I am seriously speechless.  I cried for Zach, like seriously ugly cried.  Jeri put him through it in this novel, but the mark of true hero is being brave and heroic even when you are cut down to nothing.  And, Zach is nothing if not heroic.  No matter the circumstances, no matter the pain or weakness, his first thought is to always protect those that he loves!  He is amazing, that's all I can say is amazing!  I also need to insert here a little something about Logan.  I've always been Team Zach (except in SHIFT when I was completely head over heels for Dylan), but I learned things about Logan in this book that made me really love him!  He, dealing with some of the most heartbreaking circumstances a teen can face, has grown and matured because of it.  And, I think we really get to see that in this novel.  He has become so much more than he was!

I loved this book!  It was a great 3rd book.  I loved that it made me ugly cry, scream in frustration, cheer my heart out, and feel completely satisfied when it was all over.  Shine made me feel, and I LOVE books that make me feel!  It was the perfect conclusion!

For those wanting to know the content of this book, I would say that it is definitely for older YA.  If you're a parent, definitely read it first (you'll enjoy it, trust me) to determine if you think it's okay for your YA.  There is cursing, violence, sexual content and allusions to drug use.  If you have more questions over content, you can email me or ask in the comments. 

Wednesday, April 25, 2012

DAEMON INVASION 2012


Over the last couple of weeks, you’ve heard us talking about the upcoming #daemoninvasion and we’re so excited to finally share with you what is going on.

Really excited.

The beautiful and uber cool models, Pepe Toth and Sztella Tziotziosz, who grace the Lux covers, will be joining us in the United States!  You heard right.  They are flying here, from Hungary to spend a few days as Daemon and Katy! While they are here, they will be working with Vania, from VLC Productions (the team behind Cassandra Clare’s The Mortal Instruments, Melissa de La Cruz, Kimberly Derting, Moira Young, Kami Garcia and Margret Stohl, Hillary Duff, Lauren Destefano, and many, many more authors’ book trailers), to film book trailers for the Lux Series.
During the filming in Atlanta, they will be accompanying us on tour! What does that mean? You get to meet them. In the flesh. They will be participating in the signings and events. At those signings, we’ll be giving away signed posters, photos, and other swag. There will also be meet and greet events you can join in on. 
At each signing, there will be advanced copies of Onyx given away!
And to top things off (as if this isn’t enough, but we don’t do anything small), there’s something very, very exciting in the works! It involves advanced copies of Opal, water, and a little destination known as the Bahamas. 
I am not kidding. 
This will be epic. 
Aare you excited? I am! This tour is going to be so, so much fun, and I’m so thrilled that Pepe and Sztella are a part of it. We owe them a huge thank you and a giant welcome making the 16 hour flight to meet the readers of the Lux Series.  You!

Daemon Invasion Signing and Event Schedule
June 8th
FoxTale Book Shoppe
Woodstock, GA
3:00pm

June 10th
Barnes and Noble
St Johns Town Center
Jacksonville, FL
3:00pm

June 13th
Barnes and Noble
Waterford Lakes Town Center
Orlando, FL
3:00pm

June 14th
Barnes and Noble
The Palladium at City Place
West Palm Beach, FL
4:00pm

There are several #daemoninvasion street teamers out there and if you want to join a team to win exclusive prizes, search down the #daemoninvasion hashtag to join one of the teams!

Don’t forget to visit Jennifer L. Armentrout’s blog to win a signed set of Half-Blood and Pure (insert direct link: http://jenniferarmentrout.blogspot.com/2012/04/tempting-best-man-and-contest.html  in celebration of her adult romance release, Tempting the Best Man, under pen name J. Lynn.  It can be purchased here

**if you are interested in more information on joining our street team, then click here!**

Daemon Invasion Street Team


It is coming!  It is coming!  The DAEMON INVASION is coming and it's almost here!  Before it can arrive though, we need a street team!  Here are all the deets from Jennifer and Vania:

You can have no more then 10 members on your team. Once you have collected your team, send us a group name so we can keep track of you and your team members. 
We'll then send you the first list of tasks. If you complete those by a certain date you get to move onto the next Tier of Tasks. As long as you and your team keep completing the tasks by the given dates you'll keep moving on to the grand prizes! We'll send you a kit that you can use to accomplish your tasks (we'll also need addresses of your team members if they want a kit as well). 

Don't worry, the tasks are super easy and fun!

There'll be lots of opportunities to win things along the way and we'll have lots of fun together! 

So, if you want to be one of our 10, then please sign up in the comments by leaving your name (1st only), email, twitter handle, blog, tumblr, facebook...etc whatever info you have!  We'll work together as a Team to accomplish all the tasks and be the best Team Daemon team out there!  It is probably better that you have a blog, twitter account, tumblr or facebook account to join the team, so we have a way to get the word out through you.  Sign up ASAP, so we can get this show on the road!!!  Trust me, if you are a JLA fan, you DO NOT want to miss this!!!

FREEEEEEEEEEEDOM!!!

We have done it ladies and gentleman!  Four has been freed, and boy was it worth it!  If you are ready to swoon, drool, melt and fall even harder for Four, then go read his POV!  Veronica has not disappointed!  Here is the link to her blog post and to the short story on the Divergent Series Facebook Page!  Be sure to go check it out and let Harper and Veronica know how much you loved it!  Also don't forget to enter our ULTIMATE ERUDITE GIVEAWAY and support Team Erudite!


Tuesday, April 24, 2012

It's a Family Thing

You might notice from our last review, that we have a new reviewer on the blog, and IT'S OUR MOM!!!  We are so excited to have our mom join the blog because we owe our love of reading and writing to her alone!  She has been so much more than just a mom to all 3 of us!  She was our English, Literature and Theatre teacher in high school, our play director, our coach in all our academic contests, and our constant support throughout the years!  She's also always encouraged us to follow our dreams even when it's moving across the country to work at a theatre for next to nothing in pay, or travel overseas with a bunch of college students or getting married at the age of 20.   We all 3 take after her in our own unique way!  A few months back when she mentioned being on our blog, we all 3 jumped at the chance the have her!  We are thrilled to have her on board and hope you all will love her as much as we do!

Tiger's Quest by Colleen Houck

Tiger's Quest (tiger's Saga #2) by Colleen Houck

On shelves now!
Tiger's Quest (The Tiger Saga, #2)Published by Splinter
recieved from the author for an honest review
Reviewed by: YA-Sisterhood's mom


Back in Oregon, Kelsey tries to pick up the pieces of her life and push aside her feelings for Ren. But danger lurks around the corner, forcing her to return to India where she embarks on a second quest--this time with Ren's dark, bad-boy brother Kishan, who has also fallen prey to the Tiger's Curse. Fraught with danger, spellbinding dreams, and choices of the heart, TIGER'S QUEST brings the trio one step closer to breaking the spell that binds them.



“The hunt” and all the ambiguity that surrounds the word—that’s what Colleen Houck’s Tiger’s Quest entails.  First there is the hunt for that soul mate, where two hearts can beat as one.  The reader is pulled back and forth much like Kelsey’s heartstrings as she searches for her desire, and just like her, we feel the anguish and confusion of choice.  Do we choose Ren or Kishan? Or maybe even Li, Jason, or Artie—who we definitely know are not the right choices, but with whom we also definitely know that no matter how hard we try, “if you can’t have the one you love, love the one you’re with” is not an option. 

But for those action seeking males and females who think this book is only a romance; please join Ms. Houck for the literal hunt, complete with unique weapons, real intrigue, utter world creatures, and of course stalking the prey.  However, you often find your heart beating in both terror and thrill as you are wrapped up in the mind and emotion of both the hunter and the hunted.

Furthermore, if you feel reading is more than just an escape, but a right of learning also, then you will appreciate the mythology of not just Greek and Roman culture, but an interesting sampling of known and unknown.  For those of you who believe that all religions are basically tied together in origin, her revelation of blended stories from several different cultures is quite thought provoking. 

The only thing that brought me frustration was that I really felt like Kelsey and Ren were separated for several WEEKS as the book states instead of the few hours that it took me to read the book. However, I guess we all need our hearts wrenched occasionally to wring out the excessive emotion so that we are ready to absorb more.  AND I am ready for more.  Perhaps the best part of finishing the book was knowing, as Houck reminds us, that the “story wasn’t over,” so I’m drawing this review to a close so that I can leap right into Tiger’s Voyage! 

Monday, April 23, 2012

Masque of the Red Death by Bethany Griffin


Masque of the Red Death by Bethany Griffin
ARC received from Harper Collins via Edelweiss
Release Date:  4-24-2012
Reviewed by: Middle Sis Jenn
The Sister’s Say:  Macabre, Mind-blowing, and Masterful

Everything is in ruins.

A devastating plague has decimated the population. And those who are left live in fear of catching it as the city crumbles to pieces around them.

So what does Araby Worth have to live for?

Nights in the Debauchery Club, beautiful dresses, glittery make-up . . . and tantalizing ways to forget it all.

But in the depths of the club—in the depths of her own despair—Araby will find more than oblivion. She will find Will, the terribly handsome proprietor of the club. And Elliott, the wickedly smart aristocrat. Neither boy is what he seems. Both have secrets. Everyone does.

And Araby may find something not just to live for, but to fight for—no matter what it costs her.
From the first page of this novel, I was gripped, and I refused to put it down. I had been staring at the cover for weeks in awe (you have to admit, it's breathtaking). And, I was fortunate enough to get an ARC through Edelweiss Above the Treeline!!!!

This is one of the first books in a while where I found myself completely stunned with all the twists and turns--I didn't see a single one of them coming! It's so great to read a book that is anything but predictable.

The setting is absolutely amazin
...more
If anyone can rival the world of Poe, it is Bethany Griffin.

From the first page of this novel, I was gripped, and I refused to put it down. I had been staring at the cover for weeks in awe (you have to admit, it's breathtaking). And, I was fortunate enough to get an ARC from Harper Collins through Edelweiss Above the Treeline!!!!

This is one of the first books in a while where I found myself completely stunned with all the twists and turns--I didn't see a single one of them coming! It's so great to read a book that is anything but predictable.

The setting is absolutely amazing. There were times when the action was slow, but I didn't mind at all because I got swept away in Bethany Griffin's description of the dilapidated city filled with the gorgeously dressed rich people and then the grotesquely vile plague victims. Her imagery melts onto the page, and I felt like I was plucked from my recliner and thrown right into the middle of Bethany's world. If only more people could write the way she does!

Her characters are so rich with personality, even the characters with smaller roles. I felt connected to each and every one of them, but especially to Araby. She has experienced great tragedy, and as a result, she sinks into herself, trying anything and everything to escape the harsh reality into which she is thrust. I felt her pain as if it were my own-- a feat very difficult to accomplish for most writers. And then when she meets Elliott and Will--I felt her hope and guilt and indecision. I can't explain it other than I was captivated.

I love Will and Elliott. Will is the mysterious tattooed proprietor of the club who Araby is instantly attracted to, and his secrets (which I won't reveal) make him even more...irresistible. And then there's Elliott--the wealthy aristocrat who is hiding his own secrets. I love these two guys because they are completely genuine, even when they are hiding things. I instantly felt like I could trust them both...but boy, did they both surprise me! READ IT!!! You won't be disappointed.

Bethany builds a world where the macabre and sinister is ordinary. There is no black or white, good or evil, healthy or sick--her story is rife with everything in between. It was so good, I immediately went straight to Twitter and asked Bethany if a sequel is in the works (Yes! 2013!)--I can't wait.

Finally, I will give a warning that this story is for older YA readers. I would rate it PG-13 for drug use, violence, and brief references to rape
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Sunday, April 22, 2012

Destined by Aprilynne Pike

Destined
(Wings #4)
By: Aprilynne Pike
Published by: HarperTeen
Reviewed by: Sis-in-law Sarah
Release date: May 1, 2012!!!

Check out my review of the first three books in the Wings series here.

Laurel now knows the truth: Yuki is a rare Winter faerie, the most powerful—and deadly—of all, and she is working with Klea to conquer and destroy Avalon. With Tamani, David, and Chelsea by her side, Laurel prepares for a fight she never thought she would have to face. 

Filled with heart-pounding action, sweeping romance, and higher stakes at every turn, Destined is the series conclusion that readers have been clamoring for—with a twist that will leave them breathless. 


What an extraordinary conclusion to this fantastic series!!! I mean, I thought...and hoped...and wished that it would be wonderful because I have really enjoyed this series, but it FAR exceeded all my expectations! Thank you Aprilynne!!!! You have definitely finished strong and proud!

Illusions (Book #3) ended on one of the biggest cliffhangers of all time.  Seriously...that was just plain mean.  Destined picks up right where the last one left off, just as if it were the next chapter.  (So definitely refamiliarize (if that's even a word...) yourself with how book three concluded.

So we last learned that Yuki is a winter fairie.  Big problem here considering winter fairies are able to open the gates into Avalon.  Laurel, Tamani, David, and Chelsea must find out who's side Yuki is actually on to figure out if she's a threat to Avalon or not...quite the dangerous task since winter faeries are extremely powerful!!! This book begins and it just takes off with crazy scary adventures and battles.  Seriously....the whole book takes place in like one day.  It's just one thing after another the whole way through! I couldn't put it down for the life of me!!!

There's so much more to this one then any of the others! You discover more about the characters and their potential.  I especially loved watching David in this book...he was incredible! You also get to rediscover human myths and legends that actually happened in the fairyworld. I loved seeing these old stories retold! And did I mention there's action?!?! There's SO MUCH action!!!  And don't forget the love story.  This book holds the conclusion to the crazy love triangle!!! And there's even an optional ending that had me in tears it was so beautiful and realistic.

This last part of the Wings series was everything I could have wished for and more!!! Definitely pre-order your copy! And if you haven't read this fantastic series, dive in quick! Get on the bandwagon! You don't want to miss being a part of what, at least I believe, is one of the greatest fairie stories ever told!!!

Saturday, April 21, 2012

The Wings Series by Aprilynne Pike

Wings
(Wings #1)
By Aprilynne Pike
Published by HarperTeen
Reviewed by Sis-in-law Sarah


Laurel was mesmerized, staring at the pale things with wide eyes. They were terrifyingly beautiful--too beautiful for words.
Laurel turned to the mirror again, her eyes on the hovering petals that floated beside her head. They looked almost like wings.
In this extraordinary tale of magic and intrigue, romance and danger, everything you thought you knew about faeries will be changed forever.


I read this book almost exactly a year ago and have been aching to read the rest of the series ever since!  I'm so excited to say I'm finally accomplishing that...and thought I'd do a little reviewing while I'm at it! Especially since long awaited book four is coming out this year! And I'm super stoked to say that I have a copy of it in my hands RIGHT NOW!!!!

What captured me about Wings was the whole new kind of faeries.  Seriously, these are nothing like I've ever seen before.  I don't want to give too much away, but these faeries are incredible! Instead of being little creatures, they are actually plants....with GORGEOUS blossoms I might add! Such a genius idea! I so enjoyed getting to know this whole new world!

This was a super fast read to me. (We had one snow day last year and I spent it curled up by the fire reading this book! Such fond memories!)  But it's not the kind of fast read where you don't really feel like you know the characters.  I LOVED these characters! Seriously, I want to BE Laurel.  And the love triangle in this one....super heart wrenching!  I love Tamani. Seriously. Like....a lot.  So, great romance in this series, yet very safe content for the younger reader.

The first book very much feels like a prequel.  It's awesome, but you really get to delve into Pike's faerie world in book #2!


Spells
(Wings #2)
By Aprilynne Pike
Published by HarperTeen
Reviewed by Sis-in-law Sarah

Six months have passed since Laurel saved the gateway to the faerie realm of Avalon. Now she must spend her summer there, honing her skills as a Fall faerie. But her human family and friends are still in mortal danger--and the gateway to Avalon is more compromised than ever. 

When it comes time to protect those she loves, will she depend on David, her human boyfriend, for help? Or will she turn to Tamani, the electrifying faerie with whom her connection is undeniable?

Wings was a great introduction book, but Spells...Spells is where it gets juicier and juicier!  I absolutely adored this book!  

In the beginning Laurel actually takes a trip to Avalon...and my-oh-my is it a wonderful place!!!! I was in love with Pike's version of fairyworld!  I love how fairies blossom at different seasons and the different roles fall, winter, spring, and summer fairies play.  I love how uncomfortable Laurel is with these divisive roles and I'm hoping the author delves more into this in future books!

Also, I loved that this book gives you a chance to know Tamani more.  Wings was very much focused on David and Laurel's story.  In this one, you get to know a little more about Tamani and Laurel's history as well as Tamani himself.  David's a great human boyfriend and all, but I just stinkin' love Tamani! Team Tam all the way!!!!

There is so much more complexity in this second book!  You've got trolls and the return of Jeremiah Barnes, Jamison and all things fairyworld, Chelsea and David getting more of a play in Laurel's life, and the introduction of a new character whom we don't know whether or not is threatening to Laurel and the other faeries.  Sometimes second books can be disappointing, but I thought Spells was most definitely a step up from the first book in this series!



Illusions
(Wings #3)
By Aprilynne Pike
Published by HarperTeen
Reviewed by Sis-in-law Sarah

Laurel hasn't seen Tamani since she begged him to let her go last year. Though her heart still aches, Laurel is confident that David was the right choice. 

But just as life is returning to normal, Laurel discovers that a hidden enemy lies in wait. Once again, Laurel must turn to Tamani to protect and guide her, for the danger that now threatens Avalon is one that no faerie thought would ever be possible. And for the first time, Laurel cannot be sure that her side will prevail.

I really am so excited to say that this series just gets better and better.  I could not put this book down!!!

This one takes on a different feeling altogether.  Laurel, who has done very well keeping her two worlds completely separate, is horrified (as well as secretly delighted) to find that Tamani is now her new classmate.  Obviously, this makes things totally complicated with David, who can't help but play the jealous boyfriend, as well as within her own heart as Laurel is forced to make a choice between the two.

So obviously, guess what, for all you Team Tam fans like me, there is SO MUCH Tamani in this book! I totally was a squee-er from start to finish.  And who doesn't love it when the two guys in the love triangle finally go at it!!! 

The action in this book is so much more involved than the others.  Wild fairies, the Unseelie court, Klea and her band of hunters, and a character who's loyalties are questioned....so much great stuff in this one! And seriously, one of the most killer cliffhanger endings EVER! Needless to say, I CANNOT WAIT to read book #4!!!!



So if you were kind of on the fence about Wings, keep with the series.  They just get better and better! I'm so looking forward to see what Pike does with book #4....Destined!!! Review to come!

Friday, April 20, 2012

Partials by Dan Wells

Partials by Dan Wells
Publication Date: February 28th, 2012
Reviewed by: Honorary Sis Beth
Sister Says: Powerful, Plotting, and Perilous
Summary from goodreads.com
Humanity is all but extinguished after a war with partials--engineered organic beings identical to humans--has decimated the world’s population. Reduced to only tens of thousands by a weaponized virus to which only a fraction of humanity is immune, the survivors in North America have huddled together on Long Island. The threat of the partials is still imminent, but, worse, no baby has been born immune to the disease in over a decade. Humanity’s time is running out.
When sixteen-year-old Kira learns of her best friend’s pregnancy, she’s determined to find a solution. Then one rash decision forces Kira to flee her community with the unlikeliest of allies. As she tries desperately to save what is left of her race, she discovers that the survival of both humans and partials rests in her attempts to answer questions of the war’s origin that she never knew to ask.
Combining the fast-paced action of The Hunger Games with the provocative themes of Battlestar Galactica, Partials is a pulse-pounding journey into a world where the very concept of what it means to be human is in question--one where our sense of humanity is both our greatest liability, and our only hope for survival.
When I first read the summary for Partials, I was immediately intrigued. I absolutely love dystopian books and it sounded a lot like something I would be interested in reading. Which is why I hate to admit, that I fell asleep multiple times while reading this book. Let me explain....as I have stated many times before, I am not a person who likes a lot of "world set-ups". Personally, I do not care how soceity became the way it is, I just want to know what the problem is and start diving into solving it. Partials, on the other hand, utilizes a substantial part of the first half of the book establishing the society and how everything works within it. So, it is just personal preference. If you like to know how and why the world fell and the structure of the current dystopian governmen, you will love this book.
All that being said, I ended up telling my friends and husband the book was really good. After I "powered through" the set-up, I was hooked. Kira, the main character, is an amazingly strong, determined, and fearless heroine. Multiple times I said to myself, if only I had her tenacity and smarts. She is spunky and rebellious; I just love her! She says many times throughout the book that she is willing to risk her life for the possibility of saving her bestfriend's baby. What a true friend!
The book takes many unexpected twists and turns. I do not want to spoil the book for anyone, but let me just say, at one point I put the book down and said to myself, "I did NOT see that coming!" Right when I thought I knew what was going to happen, BAM, a major plot twist that totally throws you off course. Any author that can keep their reader guessing until the very last page is a genius and Dan Wells did just that.
Romance is not a major theme. Kira does have a boyfriend, Marcus, but their relationship is very minor in the scope of the book. Mr. Wells does set up for more romance in the second book and possibly even a love triange; given the nature of the first book, however, I would doubt if it is a major theme. True to Kira's character, she is more concerned about saving her species than she is about boys...man, I love this girl!
All in all, I would recommend this book. It definitely is a worthwhile read and perfectly sets up for the second book without leaving you frustrated. If you are like me, "power through" the "world set-up", it is worth it. If you are not like me and like world set-ups, this is definitely the book for you. I am very excited for the second book to come out and will definitely be reading it as soon as it's released. So, go ahead and add Partials to your ever growing to-be-read pile; you will not regret it!
Buy it.....Read it.....Love it!!!

Thursday, April 19, 2012

Vicious Deep by Zoraida Córdova Blog Tour & Giveaway

We are so excited to be apart of the Bloggers of the Deep Blog Tour!  We have some exciting things coming your way.  Today we are hosting a giveaway and guest post.  Later on in May, we will host another stop for a character interview and review.  Here's a little about The Vicious Deep:


The Vicious Deep by Zoraida Córdova
Published by Sourcebooks Fire
May 1, 2012


The Vicious Deep
For Tristan Hart, everything changes with one crashing wave.
He was gone for three days. Sucked out to sea in a tidal wave and spit back ashore at Coney Island with no memory of what happened. Now his dreams are haunted by a terrifying silver mermaid with razor-sharp teeth.
His best friend Layla is convinced something is wrong. But how can he explain he can sense emotion like never before? How can he explain he’s heir to a kingdom he never knew existed? That he’s suddenly a pawn in a battle as ancient as the gods.
Something happened to him in those three days. He was claimed by the sea…and now it wants him back.


We are happy to host Zoraida today for Desert Island books!  We love playing Desert Island books!  Here is my Desert Island Book list from last summer.


Top Ten Books to Read when Stranded on a 
Desert Island

 If you are going to be stranded, may as well find something to pass the time. Just make sure you plan ahead…

#1 would have to be HOW TO SURVIVE ON A DESERT ISLAND. Because, really, if I don't survive, I won't get to read #2-10. 
#2 Beauty Queens by Libba Bray, obvi. 
#3 A collection of fairy tales from around the world.
#4 The Harry Potter series, because I'll need a little hope to keep me going. 
#5 Montana Sky by Nora Roberts. Don't you roll your eyes at me. Deserted islands get lonely.
#6 Still Life With Woodpecker by Tom Robbins because every word is beauty. 
#7 Lies Beneath by Anne Greenwood Brown. Partly because I'd like the company of merpeople. Partly because I'd like to read it before I get stranded. But also because I can't say I want to get stranded with my own mermaids ;) 
#8 Buffy the Vampire Slayer, season 8 graphic novels. When facing the forces of darkness (strike that), nature, I'd ask myself, What Would Buffy Do? 
#9 The Essential Neruda. Pablo Neruda was exiled to an island where he fell in love and wrote poetry. Maybe I'd get the same inspiration. 
#10 A blank notebook, to write my own stories.


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Sourcebooks Fire has kindly donated a finished copy of The Vicious Deep to giveaway here.  The giveaway is open to US and Canada entries.  We want to say a big Thank You to Sourcebooks Fire for providing this giveaway!


Wednesday, April 18, 2012

Encyclopedia of Erudite Elites & Ultimate Erudite Giveaway


Macgyver, one of Erudite's most famous elites, specializes in all things science related.  One of his most notorious accomplishments include creating a bomb from a turkey baster, a piece of bubble gum, and a paper clip.  He does not like violence, and his goal is to find peaceful solutions in the everyday materials most take for granted.

Macgyver's favorite quote: 

"Our deepest fear is not that we are inadequate.  Our deepest fear is that we are powerful beyond all measure."
--Marianne Williamson, Erudite author and peace activist


Dr. Gregory House is one of Erudite's most accomplished (and notorious) doctors.  If a medical miracle is needed, Dr. House is the one to be summoned.  Known for his eccentric diagnostic habits, Dr. House truly gives credence to the idea that genius and insanity ride the same line.  Thankfully, Dr. House continues to work on the side of  genius.

Dr. House's favorite quote:

"There is no great genius without a touch of madness."
--Aristotle, Erudite philosopher


Dr. Emmett Brown, referred to as "Doc" by his Erudite family, is another great scientist from the Erudite Faction.  Doc is currently working on a theory of time-travel, and he claims his latest invention, the Flux Capacitor, could be the key to unlocking the mysteries of the universe.  Doc chose his favorite classic vehicle, the DeLorean, in which to install the Flux Capacitor.  Beta-testing is scheduled to begin soon.

Doc's favorite quote:

"Time is an illusion.  Lunchtime doubly so."
--Douglas Adams, Erudite author of The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy



"The only good is knowledge and the only evil is ignorance."  Socrates, former Erudite leader

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The Ultimate Erudite Giveaway

Okay Erudites!  Team Erudite has banded together, and we have a crazypants giveaway for you!  We will have 10 winners and all you have to do is click on these links and tweet about this giveaway!  The rafflecopter below will tell you what to do!  Also, you can enter via rafflecopter everyday!  If you want more entries, then feel free to click on these links more than once.  Please leave a comment EVERYTIME you click & you will get an extra entry into the giveaway!  We will pick 5 winners from the rafflecopter giveaway & 5 winners from the comments.

These are the prizes we have lined up:

1- $30 giftcard from online bookstore of choice
3- $20 Amazon giftcards
1- $20 Barnes and Noble giftcard
2- Boxes of ARCS
2- Faction Bottle Cap Pendants
1- Harry Potter ebook of choice in honor of Hermione (a great Erudite)


These amazing Erudite blogs contributed to this giveaway!


Tuesday, April 17, 2012

Teaser Tuesday: Until I Die by Amy Plum

Teaser Tuesday is a weekly meme hosted by MizB over at Should Be Reading!
To participate all you have to do is:

•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 what you share doesn't give too much away! You don't want to ruin the book for others!)


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Until I Die (Revenants, #2)


Kate, it's not a weakness to want a normal relationship--one where you don't have to watch your boyfriend be carried home in a body bag a couple of times a year. (ARC, p. 67)



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I have barely started reading this one, but I must say that I LOVED Die for Me, book 1 in the Revenants series!  I've been so excited to start reading this!  It is wonderful to be back in the company of Vincent, Jules, Ambrose and Kate!  Until I Die will be published by HarperTeen and releases on May 8th.