Books Read in 2011

1. Fade Out - Rachel Caine - 1/08/11
Fade Out (The Morganville Vampires, #7)Fade Out by Rachel Caine
My rating: 3 of 5 stars
I'm coming to a point in this series that I'm not quite sure if I want to keep reading them or not. The plot is still essentially the same...town of vampire and humans that coexist with rules and stipulations, Claire is a genius with "interesting" friends, there's a bully that wants to kick her ass on a daily basis, and a mad scientist vampire who happens to be her boss. Throw into the mix a new character who torments Claire and friends, and then someone who tries to kill her. Sounding familiar and has the same plot line as the other books? Yeah, I thought so too. The only thing that's keeping me reading the next few is my curiosity. At what point does it all end for this series, and how will it wrap it? Will it wrap up, or continue to be this story always continuing to tell their day to day lives? Also, once I've invested as much time into a series as I have at this point, I just feel that need to keep going.


2. Kiss of Death - Rachel Caine - 1/16/11
Kiss Of Death (The Morganville Vampires, #8)Kiss Of Death by Rachel Caine
My rating: 3 of 5 stars
Talk about the road trip from hell! I thought this would be more about Michael's recording session in Dallas and their experiences outside of Morganville, but the whole story took place in remote towns and was about the people/things they ran into outside of their "safe" town. A few times I kept wondering what could possibly happen next to the group and sure enough something else did happen that made me pause and wonder why they always had such horrible adventures. Biggest mouth-gaping-open-moment...Eve's new car (a hearse)....really??! I think it was important for them to realize that danger still exists outside of Morganville, and was also important for them to realize what they had waiting for them back home. I would love to see them free from the restrictions that are placed on them, but I don't see that happening. Interesting to see what will happen once they return home and what the future has in store for them. Once again I'm still stuck in finding out what happens with this story.


3. The Girl Who Played with Fire - Stieg Larsson - 02/03/11
The Girl Who Played with Fire (Millennium, #2)The Girl Who Played with Fire by Stieg Larsson
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
This book was amazing... I had a hard time getting into the first book, but this one sucked me right in from the beginning. I kept wondering how the prologue would fit into the rest of the story, and I had a few ideas, but I was blown away once the story unfolded and I didn't predict or see that happening at all. I actually went back to the prologue to read it again after I finished the book, and it was amazing to me how everything fit so perfectly. The plot and storyline were wonderfully intertwined and woven with the complexity of the characters to create a seamless story and I thoroughly enjoyed it. There were some anxious chapters where I wondered what had happened to Lisbeth, and then kept wondering how the pieces were all going to fit together in this incredible book. I could not believe the cliff hanger ending! I was reading it on my iPad (Nook app) and when I got to a point where it only had five pages left I knew there was no possible way for the story to end in only five pages. I immediately purchased and downloaded the next book so I could find out the rest of Lisbeth's story, and what's going to happen in the aftermath of everything that was revealed in this book. Such a good book and I definitely recommend this series to anyone that wants a good read.

4. The Girl Who Kicked the Hornets Nest - Stieg Larsson - 02/05/11
The Girl Who Kicked The Hornets NestThe Girl Who Kicked The Hornets Nest by Stieg Larsson
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
There were so many storylines going on in this book that I kept wondering how it was going to all tie together, and if all the bad guys would be caught in the end. All of the loose ends were tied up, and even one that I thought about often didn't tie up until almost the very end. It didn't leave you frustrated that it all went a little too perfectly like some authors can do, but that you were satisfied with the way it ended and there was a reason why everything worked out the way it did. I also thought the very ending was fitting and although I would love to read more Salander stories, I'm content with the series as it is. Also, I loved Annika grilling Teleborian during the trial! I think this is a series that you could read again and find all new things that you hadn't discovered before.

5. Gone - Michael Grant -  2/18/11
Gone (Gone, #1)Gone by Michael Grant
My rating: 3 of 5 stars
I love YA Dystopia books (Hunger Games, Uglies Series, The Giver) and after reading the summary of Gone it reminded me of a show I watched as a teenager, The Tribe. As a teen I loved that show and thought it was a great concept and story, but as an adult and parent reading this book it made me pause. I kept thinking about my own kids being left on their own in a world with no adults. I enjoyed the story and it moved really fast, but some plot points bothered me. This is probably a 3.5 for me not quite a 4. The relation between the "surprise" brothers wasn't really developed and I didn't believe in it as it felt forced. I am willing to let that slide though as I enjoyed the story, but there was one part in the book that will probably haunt/distrub me for awhile. There are very real dangers and scenarios that could happen in an environment such as this one and the author isn't afraid to expose them. The Darkness part, the power plant, Petey's story and the powers developing in the children are really interesting and make me want to continue reading this series.


6. Switched - Amanda Hocking - 2/19
Switched (Trylle Trilogy, #1)Switched by Amanda Hocking
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
See Ascend review







7. Torn - Amanda Hocking - 2/19
Torn (Trylle Trilogy, #2)Torn by Amanda Hocking
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
See Ascend review







8. Ascend - Amanda Hocking - 2/19/11
Ascend (Trylle Trilogy, #3)Ascend by Amanda Hocking
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
I went on a reading binge and read all three books in the trilogy in a 9 hour period on Saturday. They were simple reads but still had a fun story that left you wanting to know more. I decided to combine my review in one place since they all did seem to blur together because I read it as one long story instead of three separate books. First, this is a new world that I loved reading about. Something different from the standard mythical creatures that are so big right now. The person she ends up with at the end surprised me. I don't know if it's because I read them all so quickly that I didn't see it coming, but I felt that the relationship wasn't built up enough and it seemed to catch me off guard. Also, I know that her character grew up quite a bit, and I can say I did see the progression, but I still found myself doubting her at times and not quite believing she was capable of doing what she set out to do. Wasn't in love with the Queen at first, but wow I felt for her by the third story and I couldn't believe what she went through and how hard her life was. Learning about all the sacrifices she had to make was incredible and it made me sad that Wendy didn't have more time to spend with her. I heard there will be a spin off series and I'd love to read more about this world and the other characters in this trilogy.

9. Hunger - Michael Grant - 2/22/11
Hunger (Gone, #2)Hunger by Michael Grant
My Rating: 3 of 5 stars
Another interesting look into the FAYZ. True to the title, this book was largely about the harsh realities of hunger and running out of food and what the kids have to do to get by. I knew after the first book there was more to the Darkness, the power plant and Petey, so it was intersting reading about those pieces of the story. I had suspected the accident at the power plant 13 years ago had played a part in the mutations and the Darkness, and it was nice to see those theories come to pass. I think one of the things this series does well is to expose the characters and their weaknesses. Or, label some of their strengths as short comings. I find that characters I had orinally liked I didn't in the end, or characters I wondered why they were even introduced I was sad to see them leave the story. So much happened in this book, and I can only imagine things get worse as the story continues especially with the Human Crew now starting up.

10. Lies - Michael Grant - 2/24/2011
Lies (Gone, #3)Lies by Michael Grant
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
I love that the titles completely encompass the books in this series. Although I thought there were some parts of the story that I already knew would happen, or that I had an idea of what was coming, there were still many elements of surprise. I think there were parts that I didn't see coming, and I'm curious to find out if the glimpse of the outside world is real or fantasy from the Darkness. I'm also wondering about Petey and what happens to him in the next book, along with Caine, Diana and the new kids that were introduced in this story.

11. Matched by Ally Condie - 2/28/11
Matched (Matched, #1)Matched by Ally Condie
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
I've been needing some brain candy lately (something not too complex and just a fun, enoyable read) and Matched was a perfect fit. I'm reading a lot of Dystopia novels right now and this was a really interesting take. It reminded me of the Uglies series by Scott Westerfield in a lot of different ways. I think if you've read both you could easily identify them. I think the most stunning or interesting comparison revolves around the choices they make. Both girls in these stories (Tally from Uglies and Cassia from Matched) have an option to take the easy road, or take a comfortable path for their life and future, but both girls choose the harder path. I felt almost naive when I read certain parts or the characters pointed out things the Society controls. I didn't expect it, like how they control that they die at age 80 which I think was a good surprise in the fact that the author downplayed it so it was a surprise. At least to me anyways, ha. One of the things I didn't like though, and it's not that I think it took away from the story, but I would have loved to learn more about the history and why the Society controls as much as they do. I found the red pills very intersting and how the borough had changed before so I think this series has so much potential. I would like to have more of the history explained and I see a potential uprising in the future. I'm looking forward to more of the story and I hope this story when it ends has a happy-ish ending.

12. Bonds of Justice by Nalini Singh - 3/10/11
Bonds of Justice (Psy-Changeling, #8)Bonds of Justice by Nalini Singh
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
One of the things I love about this series is the introduction of new characters and new elements to their world. It was really interesting to hear about the J-Psy and get a glimpse into their lives as well as how the human cops interact with the Psys. In the last book I felt the relationship between the two felt forced and I didn't feel their connection. In this one however I felt the connection between Max and Sophia right away. I thought they had such great chemistry which worked well with the storyline, but then it seemed to fizzle for me. I still enjoyed the story and as always I'm intrigued what will happen with the Psy, Silence and the Councilors. Nakita definitely surprised me and I'm wondering where Kaleb's loyalities will lie.

13. Play of Passion by Nalini Singh - 3/13/11
Play of Passion (Psy-Changeling, #9)Play of Passion by Nalini Singh
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Again another great story in the Psy-Changeling series. I loved reading about the Changeling side of the series in this book and felt the raw intensity throughout the story. It's been awhile since I read the previous books so I had a vague recollection of the characters from the past stories and it was interesting reading more about them and the pack. I'm still curious as to what will happen with the Psy and it seems like for every question that may be answered, there's still another five more that come out. I keep wondering what will happen with the Ghost and if it's someone that has already been introduced already or a "new" character. The next story is one I've been looking forward to since almost the beginning of this series...can't wait for Hawke's book!

14. Inside Out by Maria V. Snyder - 03/14/11
Inside Out (Inside Out, #1)Inside Out by Maria V. Snyder
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
I don't want to give too much of this story away, but I will say I was stunned at the outcome of this story and finding out exactly where they are. This world is really interesting and different. The idea that they count everything by hours and weeks threw me off at first, but hearing about the end goal and why it mattered made sense. There was so much that happened in this story that I want to share and talk about but I don't want to spoil anything. I would recommend this to anyone that is interested in YA Dystopian novels (my current kick right now) or YA novels for that matter as this is an intriguing story and I'm looking forward to the sequel!

15. Outside In by Maria V. Snyder - 3/16/11
Outside In (Inside Out, #2)Outside In by Maria V. Snyder
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Some of the mystery was removed from this story as you already knew the key players and a little of their past, but there were still some surprises that came out. I'd love to hear more about this story and these characters and I hope the publishers allow the author a third book. What is interesting to me is there is so much technology surrounding them, but due to their separation (uppers/lowers/Travas) they haven't known what was around them or what had been in their ancestors past. The story with the Outsiders threw me a little and I was surprised at the outcome of this story. I can understand Trella's reasoning to try and stay out of the major decisions being made, but was glad to see her take back on the leadership role in the end. Glad for her and Riley, and also was happy to see her accepting her mother and the story that unfolded there. Please oh please let there be another book in this series!

16. Birthmarked by Caragh M. O'Brien - 3/18/11
Birthmarked (Birthmarked, #1)Birthmarked by Caragh M. O'Brien
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
This story started out fast paced, but them seemed relatively slow for me. It picked up towards the middle and the end came suddenly, but at the same time I'm still wondering where it can possibly go next. Don't get me wrong, I enjoyed the story but it seemed that the bottom line was they needed to fix hemophilia and infertility in the people in the wall and needed her mother's records to do that, but why go through all they did to get there? I wasn't all that surprised by the story on how she got her scar, and I don't know if as a parent I could have made that decision but can in some way understand. It was interesting to find out Bartlett and Grey's true identities and I'm looking forward to the next book to see what happens to these characters and their world. I'm curious to see if she can find her grandmother and if/when her and Barlett or Grey will meet back up in the next book.

17. The Maze Runner by James Dashner - 3/19/11
The Maze Runner (Maze Runner, #1)The Maze Runner by James Dashner
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
I seem to struggle lately with books that don't give the full story or background of why their society is the way it currently is now. I know this is largely due in part to the genre I'm reading, and the author holding back info for the plot and timeline of the story for later on, but I'm still left wishing I knew more. It's irritating to the characters that they have no memories of their previous life but as a reader it's also very frustrating. There were pieces of the story that I knew would happen, and others I didn't expect, but I really enjoyed the overall story. I'm curious to see what else happens and I don't imagine their story is over.

18. The Scorch Trials by James Dashner - 3/19/11
The Scorch Trials (Maze Runner, #2)The Scorch Trials by James Dashner
My rating: 3 of 5 stars
I didn't love this one as much as the first, but it still left me curious and wanting to know more about these characters and their world. The tattoos that signified the roles they would play were interesting and set the tone for the rest of the story. I'm still wondering about their lives before and the memories/glimpses Thomas had. I'm not sure what to think about Thomas/Ari/Teresa and what their roles were in conjunction with WICKED and the Creators, but I'm so curious to see how the story all plays out especially once they get their memories back.

19. This Side of the Grave by Jeaniene Frost - 03/29/11
This Side of the Grave (Night Huntress, #5)This Side of the Grave by Jeaniene Frost
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Another great Cat and Bones story! Although this is no fault of the series, more on my part, I felt lost in some places like I needed to read the previous books to recall certain details that came up in this one. I think the author does a great job of explaining why things are happening the way they are, there's just something about having the other plot lines fresh in your mind before reading the next book in a series. So much has happened in Cat's life and I'm always thrown by what will come next. Big surprise and lots of twists in this story. I cried during a pivotal momement in the story, but was excited reading the last line of the story. Another thing I love about the author is her wonderful way with words and those meaningful one liners. There were a few sentences that just jumped out at me and I love having those little pieces woven into the story to make it more real and personal. I'm eagerly awaiting the next one in the series!

20. Water for Elephants by Sara Gruen - 04/1/11
Water for ElephantsWater for Elephants by Sara Gruen
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
I wasn't sure what to expect when I first started this book which is maybe why I liked it so much. The plot was interesting and I enjoyed the characters and felt their struggles. Although this may just be me, it felt that when younger Jacob was telling his story there was a fresh and youthful approach to it, but when older Jacob was talking it was a little more weighted down and heavier. Which to me made it more relatable to them and the worlds they were in. The ending wasn't what I expected, but I loved that he was able to finally tell his story and to someone who wanted to hear it. I also liked hearing the outcome of his story and life after the circus and how things seemed to work out for him after the earlier chaos in his life. I did feel sad thinking about growing old and realizing that your family is carrying on and has their own lives and struggles to deal with.

21. First Drop of Crimson by Jeaniene Frost - 04/04/11
First Drop of Crimson (Night Huntress World, #1)First Drop of Crimson by Jeaniene Frost
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Somehow I missed reading this book so already had an idea of the general story line due to reading the latest Cat and Bones story. Loved that the author intertwines her spin off stories and makes it all flow together so well with the other books. I really enjoyed this story and found I couldn't put it down. Denise had always been a minor character in the previous books so it was interesting hearing more of her story and how she had been dealing with Randy's death. There were a few surprises and I kept wondering how everything would work out. Again another fantastic book in this series.

22. Lover Unleashed by J.R. Ward - 04/7/11
Lover Unleashed (Black Dagger Brotherhood, #9)Lover Unleashed by J.R. Ward
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
This series is still going strong and I love the additional characters that are being brought into the story. As I keep telling my sisters, I totally called Manny/Payne ages ago but it's still gratifying to know I was right so long ago and to finally read their story. I also loved seeing the relationship between V and Payne, and seeing that sometimes not all relationships like with V and Jane are not perfect and sometimes need work. I love that the majority of the characters make some sort of appearance, even if it's only a brief mention, you still feel like they're part of the story. The part about the surgeon doctor/Butch/Manny connection gave me chills,something I didn't expect to see coming but totally made sense! Also, I loved Qhuinn in this book and hearing more about what he was going through. Really interesting to see if he will end up seeing his vision come true, or how that will play out in the story. I know there are so many characters still left in this series for their stories to be told, and I'll be sad for the day when that happens and there are no more new ones, but I can't wait to read all their stories!

23. The Thirteenth Tale by Diane Setterfield - 04/14/11
The Thirteenth TaleThe Thirteenth Tale by Diane Setterfield
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
This story was amazing and so complex. Although it did take me a little while to get into, and I felt this was a book I could put down at any time, I really enjoyed it. There were so many pieces of this story that fit together in the end and was so interesting how it all came together. To say I was surprised would be putting it midly! I'd love to read this again now knowing what I do and see if things stand out a little more clearly, or what details I'd pick up. The story brought me to tears at many times and pulled on my emotions in seemingly odd places, but I really felt what the author wanted to convey in loneliness and despair at certain places. I found myself thinking about this book for days afterward.

24. City of Fallen Angels by Cassandra Clare - 04/17/11
City of Fallen Angels (The Mortal Instruments, #4)City of Fallen Angels by Cassandra Clare
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
I was thrilled when I found out another book in the Mortal Instruments series would be coming out and it felt like the wait was forever, but this did not disappoint. It felt much darker than previous books and you can tell they're all growing up and are facing even tougher problems in their respective worlds. I had forgotten so many details of the previous books that I definitely need to read them all in order again. Some interesting developments in this book and a big shocker at the end. I couldn't believe the ending and I'm looking forward to the next two books in the Mortal Instruments series. Now I'll just need to read the Infernal Devices series as some of the characters in CoFA were introduced in Clockwork Angel.

25. Plague by Michael Grant - 4/24/11
Plague (Gone, #4)Plague by Michael Grant
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Wow, talk about a jaw-dropping ending! I can't wait to read more in this series and I'm constantly wondering how this series can end and what will happen. The glimpses into Petey's mind were really interesting. I'm curious to see when he'll be "back" in the story and the direction the story will take based on his actions. I also wonder how much more these kids can take as they've now been subjected to even more horrors in the FAYZ. I will definitely want to read all the books again before the next one comes out in 2012 as there are so many details that I'd want to remember before diving into the next chapter in their story.

26. The Handmaid's Tale by Margaret Atwood - 4/27/11
The Handmaid's TaleThe Handmaid's Tale by Margaret Atwood
My rating: 1 of 5 stars
The plot summary intrigued me, but I found so many issues with this story. One, it took me forever to read but I plodded through hoping it would get better. I felt the story took too long to begin and once the characters, place and plot were finally established I wasn't interested in what happened to them. I was curious enough though to keep reading because I kept thinking that something had to happen, but in the end it never really did. Even when she is taken away at the end and you read the epilogue you never know exactly what happens and what may have changed. The writing was an interesting choice as I found I had a hard time getting used to the narrator/character/no dialogue setup of telling the story and often times I had to go back and read what I'd just read. One thing that bothered me about this book was the thought process that women were being subjected to the evils of the world, but how with this new system were they being saved? Essentially they're surrogates, but with no choice and no freedoms so how in the world is that a better option for women? Also, for their so-called act of saving/freeing women, they still end up with a "brothel" for the Commanders! The only thing positive about this book I can say is that it got me thinking and it got me worked up. If anything, this story will inevitably stick with me which I think good or bad any writer would enjoy that fact.

27. The Adoration of Jenna Fox by Mary E. Pearson - 5/8/11
The Adoration of Jenna FoxThe Adoration of Jenna Fox by Mary E. Pearson
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
This was such a different book than what I've been reading lately and it was good to mix it up. I was intrigued from the first few pages and was constantly wondering if there was something sinister going on, and desperately curious on the details of Jenna and her life before the accident. The unanswered question through the book was always "Who is Jenna Fox?" I think in the end Jenna realizes she is who she is and in a way reminds us all of "who we are" and to embrace that instead of focusing on who we are not. One question I wondered was the title and cover and I was pleased to get the answers and to understand exactly why those two elements were important in setting the stage and tone of the book. The ending didn't surprise me too much and after finding out there is a second book this summer I can't wait to read it!

28. Bossypants by Tina Fey - 5/11/11
BossypantsBossypants by Tina Fey
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
To say I laughed a lot and almost peed my pants while reading this would be an understatement, but I imagine almost everyone that's read this would say something along those lines. There were so many times I'd read a certain passage and think, "Yes exactly!" The thing I loved about this is it was real. I'm sure there will be critics that call Fey out for certain things or people that won't appreciate it or like it, but for me this was hands down the funniest thing I've ever read. She isn't afraid to call people out, but takes on her own faults and actions which is something I think we all need to learn and be better about. I also liked the parts where she talked about being a boss and the rules of improv...totally relatable.

Favorite part: Going through puberty and the hilarious line, "Well played Jeanne Fey, well played."

Favorite line: "By the way, when Oprah Winfrey is suggesting you may have overextended yourself, you need to examine your f*cking life"

29. I Am Number Four by Pittacus Lore - 5/19
I Am Number Four (Lorien Legacies #1)I Am Number Four by Pittacus Lore
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
I'm glad I read this before watching the movie this last weekend. I really enjoyed the movie, but as I'm reviewing just the book I'll stick to that instead of a comparison of the two because there are several differences. I loved the plot and the concept and liked getting the visions and glimpses he had before leaving Lorien. I am so curious about so many aspects of the story. I can't wait to find out more about the second ship that evacuated their planet, the other five and if Sam's Dad may ever be found.

30. Hollowland by Amanda Hocking - 5/22
Hollowland (The Hollows, #1)Hollowland by Amanda Hocking
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
This book was amazing! I loved Hocking's Trylle trilogy and was excited to read her take on a zombie apocalypse. This definitely did not disappoint and I can't wait to read the next novel. Think Zombieland mixed with Resident Evil...a virus runs rampant affecting all humans and the struggle to save humanity, or at least out run the zombies, begins. I loved the character of Remy! She is a badass chick but is still vunerable and had her own weaknesses. I thought these characters were real and I'm looking forward to reading more about them. Seriously wish the second book was here now but in the meantime I think I'll start reading some more of Hocking's books!

31. The Land of Painted Caves by Jean M. Auel - 5/30/11
The Land of Painted Caves (Earth's Children, #6)The Land of Painted Caves by Jean M. Auel
My rating: 2 of 5 stars
I'm having a hard time with this book because I wanted to enjoy it, and I did, but I felt I was let down for such an anti-climactic ending. This is no way to end a series, much less a series that I've been reading since 1996! Ok, some have been reading this series far longer than I have, but still!

I was so disappointed in the book itself because there was so much repetition, but it was exact phrases and passages that were repeated. It almost felt like text and paragraphas were copy/pasted from previous manuscripts, and even previously in the story. Also, this is just nit-picky and more so for the editors, but it bothered me that Jondalar's name when shortened was either "Jonde" or "Jondy" and not congruent throughout the book.

The ending completely threw me. When I got down to the last two pages I expected a wrap-up, or some type of epilogue, but the last line in no way summed up the series as a whole. I honestly think there could be another novel or two, but as they've said this is her final book in the series. I also didn't like how all the sudden the story jumped forward four years without much explanation...unless I just missed that?

I was super disappointed in both characters near the end. How could Jondalar do that? I mean I know why and of course it's understandable and explainable in their life and that time, but I had such higher expectations of him. Also, did they not learn anything from before?! Jondalar still shows he can't control his temper and Ayla still can't tell him how she really feels.

One thing that wasn't addressed, and is another reason why there could be later books, is nothing was said about what happens to Brukeval and Madroman. Also, Ayla hadn't shared the visions she saw and what they might have meant with any of the other zelandonia. Furthermore, why did she take that root when she kept saying in the past few books that she would never take it again?

The healing element seemed to be missing from the story as well as inventing new things. The caves were interesting at first, but there were hardly any other events to break up the Donier Tour. While most books were based around Ayla as a pivotal character you still heard the story from their point of view or in their voice, or they were alluded to much more when it was a group. I felt others were lost in the shuffle this time around and while it may have been intentional or not, there was a degree of separation from Ayla and Jondalar, and even from Jonayla.

While I seem to be ranting here (I know, I know) I'm sure that I'll go back and read these again because I do love the series. I am saddened that the series had to end this way, but I think so many other books were incredible and the writing and research was extrodinary.

32. Kiss of Snow by Nalini Singh - 6/5/11
Kiss of Snow (Psy-Changeling, #10)Kiss of Snow by Nalini Singh
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
This was the book I've been waiting for ever since the Snow Dancers and the Laurens were introduced in the series! One of the things I love about this series is how the author masterfully blends and combines all aspects of her world. I am still so curious about Kaleb and the Ghost, along with the other Councilors and Psy, and if Silence will fall or how everything will work out. Some of the things that happened during the story felt a little too unbelievable, but overall I absolutely loved it. I was excited to hear about Sascha and Luke's baby, and I also loved how you got to hear about Walker and his story. You also finally get to know Hawke and Sienna and hear about their backgrounds and understand them a little bit better. Great story and I can't wait for the next one!

33. Runaway by Meg Cabot - 6/18/11
Runaway (Airhead, #3)Runaway by Meg Cabot
My rating: 3 of 5 stars
If anyone is curious about reading this series I would definitely say it's better to read them in quick succession vs. waiting for them to come out. I had issues with the first book and since it's a series I felt I had to give the next one a chance, but grudgingly picked it up. The second was wasn't as bad as the first, but I was still holding out for the third and final book in the series. I think this one was probably the best because you finally find out what Stark is really up to. When that moment for me as a reader clicked and I said "Aha!" I felt like this book finally did it for me. I got it. Then I was urging the main character to figure it out as well and once she did, and did it well, I was excited to see it all develop. I think the concept was great from the beginning (brain transplanting)and that was what interested me in this series so to see it finally come back around satisfied me with the series as a whole.

34. Delirium by Lauren Oliver - 6/19/11
Delirium (Delirium, #1)Delirium by Lauren Oliver
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
I love interesting concepts like this in a book! Not only was the plot intriguing, but I felt the author had a beautiful way of painting the scene with her words and many passages were so wonderfully written. I'm looking forward to the following books as I can't wait to find out what happens to Lena and Alex. Hearing about her Mom was a shocker, and when Lena realizes many things are a lie it's like her eyes are opened and you know things will never be the same for her. One thing that really got me while reading this was the fact that after your surgery you would no longer love your family or friends. Also, when you have children there is no love, so "indicents" can happen. I think as a parent you do many things for your kids and sacrifice a lot for them because you love them, not just because you are responsible for their well being. I could also say the same for other family members and friends, we help them because we love them. It would be a sad world without love. It's interesting to me that they think it was love that caused wars and fighting when in reality it's the opposite of love.

35. The Sea of Monsters by Rick Riordan - 8/19/11
The Sea of Monsters (Percy Jackson and the Olympians, #2)The Sea of Monsters by Rick Riordan
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
I made the cardinal mistake with this series by starting on this second book instead of the first. Jake happened to pick up the book at the store and thought I might enjoy it. I definitely should have started with the first because I would have liked to learn more about Percy coming to camp, character backgrounds and more about Luke. Anyway, focusing on this book I really enjoyed the story. I had been a fan of mythology as a child and loved reading more about the gods and demi-gods. I'm looking forward to hearing more about the prophecy and the choices they will all make. Grover's ability to communicate with Percy was really interesting and gave great glimpses to the other parts of the story to tie it in well.

36. The Titan's Curse by Rick Riordan -8/20/11
The Titan's Curse (Percy Jackson and the Olympians, #3 )The Titan's Curse by Rick Riordan
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
The new characters introduced in this book (and Thalia at the end of the previous book) brought a new twist to the series. Wondering how the books will go with the imminent prophecy and the recent revelations on some characters. The actual Titan's Curse was a surprise and was interesting how they figured it out to correct the situation.



37. The Battle of the Labyrinth by Rick Riordan - 8/21/11
The Battle of the Labyrinth (Percy Jackson and the Olympians, #4)The Battle of the Labyrinth by Rick Riordan
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
This book surprised me the most out of all of them. Surprises, unexpected twists, and some new revelations. I like how there is a prophecy that guides the adventure and gives you hints of what might be happening as you try to piece it all together. It's also interesting to see how the events that pertain to the gods are tied into regular events as the mortals explain it all away. So curious to find out what will happen as they try to take Luke and the Titans down.

38. The Lasy Olympian by Rick Riordan - 8/22/11
The Last Olympian (Percy Jackson and the Olympians, #5)The Last Olympian by Rick Riordan
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Loved the ending of this final story in the series. Great plot points and I loved the new prophecy for the next set of demi-gods! I think one thing that stood out to me the most was watching the characters grow and seeing them change. Really great series and I think both my kids will enjoy it.



39. One Grave at a Time by Jeaniene Frost - 9/5/11
One Grave at a Time (Night Huntress, #6)One Grave at a Time by Jeaniene Frost
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Cat and Bones tackle new monsters both alive and dead in this next great book in the series. The premise of killing (or stopping) a ghost was interesting and I was so curious to see how it would all pan out. Mondragon is a vile character and I'm so looking forward to seeing him get what he deserves. Also, I wonder what will happen to her Uncle and if he will be able to cross over after this is resolved. The fight scene at the end was crazy and filled with so much action. Poor Cat's hair! ;) I absolutely love these characters and I loved seeing Spade and Denise make a new appearance. The ending seemed to come fast and I'm wondering if Tyler will appear in the next book and what payment he will demand for his part in the adventures. I'm curious to see if Ian and Cat's mom will get together...that would be hilarious but the stage has been set so it will definitely be interesting. It's always fun when parts from past books make a reappearance so I feel like I need to read them all through again before the next book comes out. Another fantastic Cat and Bones story!

40. Bloodlines by Richelle Mead - 9/6/11
Bloodlines (Bloodlines, #1)Bloodlines by Richelle Mead
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Sydney seemed a little passive in previous stories but I always liked her character and was excited for this spin-off series. I was not disappointed and changed my thoughts about Sydney...she is awesome and bad-ass! I found that I was surprised at certain points but some things were woven so well that you could see the allusion and saw the tie in. I always felt one character was off and felt justified when they received their ending. Also, glad to see another character get what he deserved and relished in the moment for Sydney. I can't forget to mention Adrian! He was such an great character and the new developments in his life are very interesting and I can't wait to see where the next books will take them.

41. The Ghost and the Goth by Stacey Kade - 9/9/11
The Ghost and the Goth (The Ghost and the Goth, #1)The Ghost and the Goth by Stacey Kade
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Light and fun read! The plot was great because while it has been done before on tv shows and other books, etc. it felt like it had it's own twist and kept you engaged. Will was a great lead even though you wanted to smack him for being dumb sometimes, and while Alona was a little high school drama queen, I felt like you could relate and she was a likeable character. I will say "Gus" was predictable after a few things came to light, but there was still some mystery elements that had you guessing. Overall it was a fun read and I'm looking forward to the next books in the series.

42. Queen of the Dead by Stacey Kade - 9/16/11
Queen of the Dead (The Ghost and the Goth, #2)Queen of the Dead by Stacey Kade
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
This started off slow, and then went at break neck speed to then come to a screeching halt with the ending. It was interesting hearing more about the Order and Will's father and his past. I'd be curious to see if some of the same characters make an appearance in book #3. I was surprised with what happened with Alona/Lily. I was expecting it to happen, but I didn't think it would "stick" and the author would take the story in that direction. I was pleased though because I'd been cheering on Will and Alona's relationship but knew they could never be together they way they were. Really curious to see what happens in the next story!

43. Finding Sky by Joss Stirling - 9/16/11
Finding SkyFinding Sky by Joss Stirling
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
I couldn't put this book down! The story, writing and characters were incredible and I did not want this story to end. Sky seemed a little passive at first, but she showed her strength and resiliance. Zed seemed to be the typical bad boy type at first but when you find out what's under the surface you understand him and appreciate him even more. The growth of their relationship was perfect and I can't wait to read more about them as a couple. I love the idea of the Soulfinder and finding that person to complete you and share half of your gifts. Some surprises and twists and I was hooked on this story and their world. I cannot wait to read the next book in this series and I'm hoping/expecting for all brothers to get their own book to meet their Soulfinders.

44. Wither by Lauren DeStefano - 9/18/11
Wither (The Chemical Garden, #1)Wither by Lauren DeStefano
My rating: 3 of 5 stars
I enjoyed this story and am looking forward to reading the next, but I do have to say that I wasn't quite the story I was expecting based on the book summary. The plot was intriguing and I'm interested to see how the series will pan out further with the looming deadline of their life running out. I do love the fight from Rhine and her resistance. She always had something to go back to and couldn't forget that. Cecily and Jenna were great supporting characters and I was sad for their own endings. Vaughn is vile and I'm sort of hoping that he'll get it in the end.

45. The Fox Inheritance by Mary E. Pearson - 9/23/11
The Fox InheritanceThe Fox Inheritance by Mary E. Pearson
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
I was really curious how this would start and was excited to see it start right where the first one ended. I was very curious how Locke and Kara would be brought back since you knew Jenna destroyed their back-ups. It was intriguing to find out how/why the came back and the unfortunate horrors they faced while being in the empty space. I loved Locke's character and really hope for another story about him and his adventures and then hopefully seeing him with Jenna. It was so interesting to hear about the authors version of the future. Overall, I really enjoyed this story. It was sad to watch Kara and what she eventually succumbed to but it made sense with the story and plot lines.

46. Timeless by Alexandra Monir - 9/25/11
Timeless (Timeless, #1)Timeless by Alexandra Monir
My rating: 2 of 5 stars
This book has been given a lot of 5 stars, but...I didn't care for it. I thought the plot was great - time travel, teenage love, a mystery key and a mysterious missing father. It had so much potential, but unfortunately I felt parts were too forced and the writing itself was sloppy. I'm disappointed because this could have been great, but I was let down. I typically like to read each book in a series because they tend to improve, but I'm undecided if I'll reach for the next one or not when it comes out.

47. Heist Society by Ally Carter - 9/25/11
Heist Society (Heist Society, #1)Heist Society by Ally Carter
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
I loved Ally Carter's Gallagher Girls series so I was excited to read this. It's kind of like a teenage version of Oceans Eleven. Kat cracked me up and I liked her determination and stubborness but at some point I just want her to ask for help because she has a great team behind her. I can say I spotted the person that wasn't meant to be there, but I was surprised at how it ended and how they took care of the bad guy so successfully. Still a little hard to believe that there are "spy girls" or "teenage criminals" but I liked the stories and the enjoyable read it was.

48.Uncommon Criminals by Ally Carter - 9/26/11
Uncommon Criminals (Heist Society, #2)Uncommon Criminals by Ally Carter
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
I want to say I enjoyed this book more than the first, but maybe that's because I already knew the characters and it was easy to slip right into their world. You want to feel bad for Kat when things go awry, but at the same time she was on a "high" and needed to be brought back down a few notches. Unfortunately she learns a steep lesson, but with a great team behind her they pull off a simple trick that makes all the difference. My job dropped at how simple the con was, but in the end it was the perfect way to go. I'm hoping there's a lot more to come from this series and I'm insanely curious about Vasily!

49. The Goddess Test by Aimee Carter - 9/30/11
The Goddess Test (Goddess Test, #1)The Goddess Test by Aimee Carter
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
I was prepared for Kate to face some wicked challenges, tests and battles, but in the end the tests were more about human nature - the seven deadly sins. I honestly didn't spot the killer of all the prior girls, but I knew there was something going on with Kate's mother and the way she ended up in Eden. I admired how level-headed Kate was and the lengths she went to take care of everyone around her and try not focus on herself. I feel like this taught me some lessons and gave me some insight into the real tests of life. I really enjoyed this book and was so excited to find out there is more in this series!

50. Old Magic by Marianne Curley - 10/1/11
Old MagicOld Magic by Marianne Curley
My rating: 2 of 5 stars
This book was...meh. Not great, but not horrible but not one I'd read over again. I was intrigued at the way they used magic to time travel, but the story fell so flat for me. Jarrod was so weak and then bam! all of the sudden he's super confident and cool and realizes he's in love with Kate. Rhauk was probably my favorite character and he's the bad guy! The progress was so slow it felt like it took forever for the story to move on and then it was suddenly over and done with and had such an mediocre ending.

51. Unearthly by Cynthia Hand - 10/2/11
Unearthly (Unearthly, #1)Unearthly by Cynthia Hand
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
I will admit, I felt extremely bad for Clara and her orange hair...Ok, now that I've got that out of the way. I was fascinated by the angel-bloods and their purpose and the lore behind it all. I honestly kept guessing how her vision and purpose were going to play out, and I didn't see that ending coming! Finding out who Christian was, how Angela fits into the puzzle and the things her mom keeps her sheltered from are the big pieces that make me want more. I am so curious to see what happens next and what other shockers you'll find out.

52. The Power of Six by Pittacus Lore - 10/7/11
The Power of Six (Lorien Legacies, #2)The Power of Six by Pittacus Lore
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
While the first book spent a lot of time on John's relationship with Sarah, this book dived right into the action. At first I wasn't sure how the transition from Marina as the narrator back to the other three would work, but it wasn't an issue and I found it easy to follow along with. New mysteries and questions surround their chests and John's revelation of the second ship in the first book is revealed towards the end of this one. I'm so curious about the new people they found and especially about Sam's dad and what twists and turns will come next. Incredible series.

53. Enchanted Ivy by Sarah Beth Durst - 10/8/11
Enchanted IvyEnchanted Ivy by Sarah Beth Durst
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
I expected the test to be the majority of the book, but surprisingly it's only a small portion at the beginning and then things get really exciting. I was surprised to find that she was unaware of who she was for her entire life and was so very sheltered. It was interesting hearing how there were two Princeton's and why they were split and how that affects the magical people between the realms. Overall I really enjoyed this book and it was a fun, happy read.

54. Stealing Phoenix by Joss Stirling - 10/11/11
Stealing PhoenixStealing Phoenix by Joss Stirling
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Amazing. Incredible. Perfect. This book was spectacular! I loved the first book and was hoping this would live up to my expectations, but it ended up far surpassing them! I still absolutely love the first book, but it's almost like children...you love them both equally! There were so many perfect moments in this book. The soul finders are such great couples together and even though they meet and in minutes fall in love, it's not forced. The author makes you feel like they were meant to be together and it's so easy to believe. I loved seeing Sky and Zed in this one, and loved getting more out of the other brothers. I am seriously hoping they all get their one stories, but that it doesn't go in reverse order. Trace would probably have some issues seeing all his younger brothers finding their soul finders before him! I can't wait for Xav and Vic's books!

55. Zombicorns by John Green - 10/12/11
ZombicornsZombicorns by John Green
My rating: 3 of 5 stars
I was confused while reading this. A lot. I know this is a novella, but I would have loved a full length to really get into it, and for some things to make more sense. In this apocalypse zombies are addicted to corn, and a virus turns everyone into corn loving zombies. While they plant corn, eat corn and worship corn, they still like to nom on humans. And convert them to their corn loving ways. See...confusion. There was a shocking part I didn't see coming and it changed the dynamic of the story. All in all though, I did like it and would have been interested to see what happened after Mia headed north.

56. Jumper by Steven Gould- 10/14/11
JumperJumper by Steven Gould
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
I shouldn't have been surprised, but the movie was completely different from the book. The "jumper" portions were excellent and I loved the concept and the idea that he can go anywhere in the world after having been there once. The first part was interesting and filled with all the fun jumping, but after the second half the plot took a twist and his purpose became different. He had a lot of issues that shaped the reason he did things and why he made the choices he did. It was interesting to see him take a prevalent stage vs. staying hidden. I could have seen this going a totally different way (like in the movie) but overall I enjoyed it and am looking forward to reading the next ones in the series.

57. The Nine Lives of Chloe King

58. Crossed by Ally Condie - 11/11/11

59. Hollowland by Amanda Hocking - 11/13/11
60. Need by Carrie Jones - 11/14/11
Need (Need, #1)Need by Carrie Jones
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
This was an interesting take on a different kind of monster. I enjoyed the characters and the plot, but I always search for extra information in stories and felt that was the only area for me that was lacking. I think there is still a lot to tell about the past, the pixies, and how much other characters really know. Overall I enjoyed the story and found the title fitting once you've gotten into the story. I'm curious to see what happens next to the characters and if they can really keep the pixies contained.