Blog Tour: Truth - Julia Karr - Sal This or That

Julia Karr is here today with a character this or that list for Sal, courtesy of the Teen Book Scene blog tour for her brand new release, Truth. Thank you for being here today, Julia! You can follow along with the tour here, or by clicking through the banner. Enjoy! 

cartoons or comics - Comics - he goes for the graphic novels, actually

day or night - Night - so much of what he does is covert, he likes the dark

aftershave or cologne - Aftershave - he considers cologne primping

smurfs or gnomes - Gnomes - they aren’t cute & they aren’t necessarily nice!

cats or ducks - Cats - he’s a total cat person

cd's or tapes - CDs - no time to mess with tapes

pants or shorts - Pants - definitely pants

clean shaven or mustache/goatee - Clean shaven - if he needs a mustache or goatee, he’ll use it as a disguise

reading or writing - Reading - he’s not much for writing, preferring to talk in person if he has to say something

milk or water - Water - unless that milk has cookies nearby!

tattoos or piercings - Tattoos - especially the really cool ones, like Wei’s

bananas or grapefruit - Grapefruit - bananas are too mushy

steak or vegetables - Vegetables - who would eat an animal - that’s disgusting

truth or dare - Truth - although, among friends he might be up for a dare

Thank you for sharing Sal's preferences with us, Julia! Thank you so much for being here today! 

Julia Karr can be found on her website, and on twitter. 

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Nina Oberon’s life has changed enormously in the last few months. When her mother was killed, Nina discovered the truth about her father, the leader of the Resistance. And now she sports the same Governing Council–ordered tattoo of XVI on her wrist that all sixteen-year-old girls have. The one that announces to the world that she is easy prey to predators. But Nina won’t be anyone’s stereotype. And when she joins an organization of girls working within the Resistance, she knows that they can put an end to one of the most terrifying secret programs the GC has ever conceived. Because the truth always comes out...and the consequences can be deadly.

Synopsis taken from goodreads.

Blog Tour: Under the Never Sky - Veronica Rossi - Author Book Picks

Veronica Rossi is here today with an author book picks post courtesy of the Teen Book Scene blog tour for her soon to be released book, Under the Never Sky. Thank you for being here today, Veronica! You can follow along with the tour here, or by clicking through the banner. Enjoy!

Thanks for having me on the blog! I'm a huge fan of Kristin Cashore's books, so I'm really looking forward to BITTERBLUE. DAUGHTER OF SMOKE AND BONE by Laini Taylor was one of the best books I read this year. I absolutely adored Karou and Akiva.

Recently I've been reading books by fellow debut authors. I've read BORN WICKED, EVERNEATH, INCARNATE, to name a few. 2012 is going to be an incredible year for books.

There's a strong part of me that has always loved epic stories with richly imagined worlds and a host of diverse characters. Lord of the Rings, The Game of Thrones, Harry Potter.... I can't get enough of those series.

As for my characters, I think both Perry and Aria would enjoy THE HUNGER GAMES for tough characters who know how to survive at all costs. I'd actually love to see how they'd fare in the games, if they'd been chosen as tributes. I think they'd both do pretty well.

Thanks so much for having me!

You are more than welcome! Thank you for being here today, Veronica! 

Veronica Rossi can be found on her website, her blog, and on twitter.

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Aria is a teenager in the enclosed city of Reverie. Like all Dwellers, she spends her time with friends in virtual environments, called Realms, accessed through an eyepiece called a Smarteye. Aria enjoys the Realms and the easy life in Reverie. When she is forced out of the pod for a crime she did not commit, she believes her death is imminent. The outside world is known as The Death Shop, with danger in every direction.

As an Outsider, Perry has always known hunger, vicious predators, and violent energy storms from the swirling electrified atmosphere called the Aether. A bit of an outcast even among his hunting tribe, Perry withstands these daily tests with his exceptional abilities, as he is gifted with powerful senses that enable him to scent danger, food and even human emotions.

They come together reluctantly, for Aria must depend on Perry, whom she considers abarbarian, to help her get back to Reverie, while Perry needs Aria to help unravel the mystery of his beloved nephew’s abduction by the Dwellers. Together they embark on a journey challenged as much by their prejudices as by encounters with cannibals and wolves. But to their surprise, Aria and Perry forge an unlikely love - one that will forever change the fate of all who live UNDER THE NEVER SKY.

The first book in a captivating trilogy, Veronica Rossi’s enthralling debut sweeps you into an unforgettable adventure.

Synopsis taken from goodreads.

Blog Tour: Ashfall - Mike Mullin - Alex's Book Picks & Giveaway Details

Mike Mullin is here today with Alex's Book Picks courtesy of the Teen Book Scene blog tour for his new release, Ashfall. Thank you for being here today, Mike! You can follow along with the tour here, or by clicking through the banner. Enjoy! 

Alex’s Favorite Books

Guns, Germs and Steel: The Fates of Human Societies by Jared Diamond

Anyone who even occasionally glances at Google News knows some places are a lot crappier to live in than the United States was before the supervolcano. This book explains why.

Unwind by Neal Shusterman

About a future world in which parents can choose to have their teenagers disassembled for parts. So, only slightly worse than today. I don’t think Mom would unwind me. At least not on most days.

Red Thunder by John Varley

A bunch of kids get together and build a spaceship. The cool thing about this book is that, except for some hand-waving about a “bubble drive,” this would really work.

Lies My Teacher Told Me by James W. Loewen

Unless you’re satisfied learning only the history that Texas Board of Education wants taught, you need this book. (Yes—even in Iowa, and probably your state—the Texas Board of Education decides what goes into your high school history textbooks; check this out if you don’t believe me.)

Tigana by Guy Gavriel Kay

My favorite fantasy—it reads like a real history of Italy, but with magic thrown in for extra fun.

Angel in the Whirlwind: The Triumph of the American Revolution by Benson Bobrick

This is my favorite history of The American Revolution, which is also one of my favorite topics in history.

1632 by Eric Flint

A small West Virginia town is suddenly transported to the northern Germany of 1632. Mayhem ensues. This book rocks, but the sequels are meh.

Startide Rising by David Brin

Talking, sentient dolphins! And chimps! Hundreds of alien species. Some of which want to eat us. What more do you want? The Uplift War, set in the same universe, is just as good.

Feed by M.T. Anderson

Here’s the first sentence, “We went to the moon to have fun, but the moon turned out to completely suck.” Tell me that doesn’t make you want to read the whole book. It doesn’t? Oh well, it worked for me.

Thank you for sharing some of your favourite books with us today, Alex!

Thank you for being here today, Mike and Alex! 

Mike Mullin can be found on his website, his blog, and on twitter. 

Want to buy an autographed copy of Ashfall? Look here.

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Under the bubbling hot springs and geysers of Yellowstone National Park is a supervolcano. Most people don't know it's there. The caldera is so large that it can only be seen from a plane or satellite. It just could be overdue for an eruption, which would change the landscape and climate of our planet.

Ashfall is the story of Alex, a teenage boy left alone for the weekend while his parents visit relatives. When the Yellowstone supervolcano erupts unexpectedly, Alex is determined to reach his parents. He must travel over a hundred miles in a landscape transformed by a foot of ash and the destruction of every modern convenience that he has ever known, and through a new world in which disaster has brought out both the best and worst in people desperate for food, water, and warmth. With a combination of nonstop action, a little romance, and very real science, this is a story that is difficult to stop reading and even more difficult to forget.

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Giveaway Details

Comment to be entered to win an autographed copy of Ashfall. US/Canada only. 
Mike will draw a winner each week of the tour.
International winner will be selected at end of tour. 

Ashfall - Mike Mullin - Blog Tour Review & Giveaway Details

Under the bubbling hot springs and geysers of Yellowstone National Park is a supervolcano. Most people don't know it's there. The caldera is so large that it can only be seen from a plane or satellite. It just could be overdue for an eruption, which would change the landscape and climate of our planet.

Ashfall is the story of Alex, a teenage boy left alone for the weekend while his parents visit relatives. When the Yellowstone supervolcano erupts unexpectedly, Alex is determined to reach his parents. He must travel over a hundred miles in a landscape transformed by a foot of ash and the destruction of every modern convenience that he has ever known, and through a new world in which disaster has brought out both the best and worst in people desperate for food, water, and warmth. With a combination of nonstop action, a little romance, and very real science, this is a story that is difficult to stop reading and even more difficult to forget.

Synopsis taken from goodreads.

Title: Ashfall

Author: Mike Mullin

Genre: Young Adult, Dystopian, Apocalyptic Fiction

Publisher: Tanglewood Press

Publication Date: October 11, 2011

Format: E-ARC

Source: Received from Netgalley courtesy of the Teen Book Scene. Many thanks goes to Netgalley and the Teen Book Scene for sending me a copy of this book for review. I received this book free of charge in exchange for an honest review. 

Look for it: Amazon, Book Depository

Blog Tour: Teen Book Scene. You can follow along with the blog tour here. 

My rating: 5/5 

What if your world turned upside down in the space of 24 hours? Nothing would be the same again. Would you be able to survive? This question runs rampant through Alex's mind as the world around him is obliterated by ash spewed from the supervolcano located 900 miles away in Yellowstone National Park. Left at home alone, he was enjoying the idea of having a weekend to himself while the rest of his family visited relatives a couple hours away. Within hours of their leaving, everything changes. Now all Alex can think about is getting to his family and he is going to have to travel over 100 miles to get to them. He doesn't know what is out there, or what anyone will do as the days and weeks pass by. His only goal is to make it to his family, but will he survive the journey? 

I'm going to say this straight up. I don't think I can even begin to do this book justice in my review. It was absolutely mind-blowing and way too realistic, which makes the read all the more gripping. Alex is amazing. He is such an intriguing character, and he really steps up when everything around him changes in the blink of an eye. Disasters bring out the best and worst in people, and seeing how Alex reacted to every situation thrust upon him was both terrifying and realistic. Friendships formed in the most unlikely places, and it was kill or be killed in other situations. Mullin doesn't pull any punches. He puts Alex through the wringer and then some. We are there every step of the way, living through Alex vicariously, wondering if we would be able to do what he has to do to survive. Honestly, I couldn't tell you if I would be capable of doing some of the things he has to do. Yet through it all, Mullin doesn't delve into ridiculously gory details. Less is more, and that will resonate with readers, especially when certain acts of depravity rear their ugly heads.

His attention to detail, especially with regards to the aftermath of the volcano erupting, the landscape, and the diseases brought on by the volcano really show that Mullin put a lot of time and effort into researching before writing the book, and that paid off exponentially. We get an unscripted look into a disaster that could happen at any time, and Ashfall really makes you think. Would you be able to survive such a disaster? Would you be able to defend yourself and your loved ones from those looking to take everything from you? 

Al in all, this book gave me chills, and it kept me up into the wee hours of the night as I absorbed every word. I couldn't help falling in love with Alex and Darla and cannot wait to read more of their story because this disaster is way too big for just one book. As much as I hate seeing the situations that Alex has thrust upon him, I can't wait to see what Mullin has in store for him next, especially since this is the start of a new and very uncertain future. This is an incredibly realistic, poignant and mesmerizing read. It should top everyone's reading list. It has made my top reads for the year, and I cannot wait to delve back into the haunting world Mullin has created. 

Giveaway Details: 

Mike Mullin is giving away FOUR signed hardcover editions of Ashfall during the blog tour. Comment on any post during the tour to be entered to win. Winners will be drawn each week of the tour. This portion is US/Canada only. 

Mike is also providing one copy of Ashfall for giveaway to international readers as well through the Book Depository. Please verify that the Book Depository will ship to your country. Just leave a comment to be entered. =)

Blog Tour: Solstice - P.J. Hoover - Author Book Picks: Current

P.J. Hoover is here today with her Current Book Picks courtesy of the Teen Book Scene blog tour for her book, Solstice. Thank you for being here, P.J. You can follow along with the tour here, or by clicking through the banner. Enjoy!

SOLSTICE by P. J. HOOVER: 2011 READS I’VE ADORED!

Thanks so much for inviting me to guest blog over here! It’s great to connect with people who love reading young adult books as much as I do! For those who don’t know, my debut young adult novel, SOLSTICE, was just released in May. SOLSTICE is what happens when MATCHED meets THE LIGHTNING THIEF and is largely set in a future where global warming is destroying the earth.

One of the best things about having SOLSTICE out in the world is the fact that people are actually reading it! I know this sounds simple, but getting those first few reviews and seeing how people are actually connecting with the book and loving it…well, there is nothing better for an author. So I’d love to take a few minute and spread some book love of my own. Here are some books I’ve read in 2011 and highly recommend!

First, I have to mention CALLI by Jessica Lee Anderson. CALLI is the story of a teen girl from an alternate family (think two moms) who gets a foster sister and is sure all will be great. But when her foster sister kisses Calli’s boyfriend, Calli thinks revenge will be sweet…until it backfires. This is a great choice for fans of LOLA AND THE BOY NEXT DOOR by Stephanie Perkins or KEEPER by Kathi Appelt.

Next is ASHES by Ilsa Bick. Ilsa creates a world that is haunting because it is so close to what could happen if disaster hit. Complete with an electromagnetic pulse, crazy zombie teens, and religious cults, ASHES had it all (and in a very logical manner). I look forward to the next book in the series!

Another book I very much enjoyed is LEGEND by Marie Lu. This not-yet-released book had me engaged from page one and does a fantastic job with making a unique dystopian world in a market flush with dystopia. It’s also worth reading just to see how well done the dual point of view is. Being able to make both points of view justifiable is not an easy task, but LEGEND accomplished it. Again, I’ll read book two in this series.

Though not for the kids’ market, I could not stop reading ROOM by Emma Donoghue. This story is told from the point of view of a five-year-old boy and had me hanging on every world. I actually listened to this one on audio and would recommend doing the same for anyone interested in this intense story.

And just for kicks and to round out the genres represented, I highly recommend THE GRAND DESIGN by Stephen Hawking. Not just for science geeks (although this will help), THE GRAND DESIGN brought up some amazing theories for the questions of the universe.

Thanks so much for reading, and may your summer be a sizzling one!

SOLSTICE is available as a $2.99 eBook on Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Smashwords,

and iBooks. SOLSTICE will be released in paperback this summer.

Thank you for being here today, P.J.! You've got a lot of great books listed! 

P.J. Hoover can be found on her website.

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BIO: P. J. Hoover first fell in love with Greek mythology in sixth grade thanks to the book Mythology by Edith Hamilton. After a fifteen year bout as an electrical engineer designing computer chips for a living, P. J. decided to take her own stab at mythology and started writing books for kids and teens. P. J. is also a member of THE TEXAS SWEETHEARTS & SCOUNDRELS. When not writing, P. J. spends time with her husband and two kids and enjoys practicing Kung Fu, solving Rubik's cubes, and watching Star Trek. Her first novel for teens, Solstice, takes place in a Global Warming future and explores the parallel world of mythology beside our own. Her middle grade fantasy novels, The Emerald Tablet, The Navel of the World, and The Necropolis, chronicle the adventures of a boy who discovers he’s part of two feuding worlds hidden beneath the sea.

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My world is dying. Global warming will kill every living thing on Earth. I endure the endless summer, and do what I can to help. Until one day…

I open a box, and everything changes.

I discover a world of mythology parallel to my own. A world where gods battle for control, and monsters feed in the rivers of the Underworld. This dark world pulls me in and tells me I belong.

I meet Shayne, who keeps secrets from me. And Reese, who makes me feel alive. But I almost lose my best friend and my life. I don't want to leave this new world. But can I choose the life I want, without sacrificing the people I love?

SOLSTICE is P.J. Hoover’s debut YA novel and is the first front-list novel to be independently published by an Andrea Brown Literary Agency author.

Synopsis taken from goodreads. 

Possession - Elana Johnson - Blog Tour Review

Vi knows the Rule: Girls don't walk with boys, and they never even think about kissing them. But no one makes Vi want to break the Rules more than Zenn...and since the Thinkers have chosen him as Vi's future match, how much trouble can one kiss cause? The Thinkers may have brainwashed the rest of the population, but Vi is determined to think for herself.

But the Thinkers are unusually persuasive, and they're set on convincing Vi to become one of them...starting by brainwashing Zenn. Vi can't leave Zenn in the Thinkers' hands, but she's wary of joining the rebellion, especially since that means teaming up with Jag. Jag is egotistical, charismatic, and dangerous--everything Zenn's not. Vi can't quite trust Jag and can't quite resist him, but she also can't give up on Zenn.

This is a game of control or be controlled. And Vi has no choice but to play.

Synopsis taken from goodreads.

Title: Possession

Author: Elana Johnson

Genre: Young Adult, Dystopian

Publisher: Simon & Schuster

Publication Date: June 7, 2011

Format: E-galley

Source: Received from Galley Grab as part of the Teen Book Scene blog tour. Many thanks goes to the Simon & Schuster team behind Galley Grab and Teen Book Scene for sending me a copy of this book for review. I received this book free of charge in exchange for an honest review.

Tour: Teen Book Scene. You can follow along with the tour here, or by clicking through the banner located below the review.

Look for it: Amazon, Book Depository

My rating: 4.5/5

Vi has always balked against the rules. She's been caught on many occasions as having broken them. What is the harm in walking with someone from the opposite sex, and do they really need to wear a hat? Vi doesn't understand why the rules are so restrictive, and certainly her not conforming to them isn't a bad thing, is it? When she meets Jag, she realizes there is a whole different world out there, one that is not repressed by controlling rules. There are some things worth fighting for, and she'll die for the chance to live life the way she wants to, and not how the Thinkers and society dictates. 

Vi is an unusually strong character. She flat out refuses to conform to the rigid system set in place to protect those in the Goodlands. Whether or not the rules actually protect people or hinder them is another matter altogether. Having lived the last few years without her father and her sister due to circumstances outside of her control, she is left with just her mother, and an overwhelming sense of being alone. She has Zenn, and has been matched with him, but wants to explore more of the world. 
The world building is also very intriguing as there is this whole structure to the civilization that is set in place. When people try to disrupt the system, or try to live how they want to live, they are instantly put under surveillance or put on trial. If they are chronic offenders they are then sentences to life in the Badlands. With any strict regime there is a resistance group bent on overthrowing the Thinkers and it was interesting to see how Vi interacted with said group when she learned about them. 
I have to say I kind of loved this book. It immediately hooked me, and I loved how the information was doled out when needed and not all at once. I know some may not enjoy that aspect, but I really liked it. I loved seeing the interaction between Vi and Jag, as well as Zenn, and seeing how everything came together for them during the read. The one thing I didn't like about the book was the ending, but that's personal preference. I really hope that there is a sequel because I believe there should be one, and there is cause for one. I don't think Vi's story is done yet and I'm looking forward to reading more about her, and her world. 
All in all, a fantastic dystopian read where the Thinkers rule, and if anyone breaks the rules they are punished severely. The Resistance also adds a dose of flavour to the read as we see Vi interact with them, and come to realizations about those around her as her perceptions change over the course of the story. I'll definitely be looking to read more from Johnson, as she completely enthralled me with Possession.

Blog Tour: Possession - Elana Johnson - Vi Character Interview

Today, Elana Johnson is here along with her Possession main character, Vi. Vi's here with a character interview courtesy of the Teen Book Scene blog tour for Possession. Thank you for being here Elana, and Vi! You can follow along with the tour here, or by clicking through the banner. Enjoy!

What was your impression of Jag the first time you saw him?

That he was bad. I mean, his skin was all stained. But he looked so relaxed, so I thought maybe he knew something about the hearing that I didn’t. Turns out, he knew a lot about a lot of things that I didn’t. Jerk.

If you could change or get rid of any rule, what would it be and why?

Oh, I’d totally annihilate the whole “you must plug-in to the transmissions for eight full hours each night” rule. Just think, without that, maybe people would start to think for themselves.

How has life been for you since you've been on your own with your mom?

Sucktacular. My mom is, well, she misses Ty. Sometimes I’m not even sure it’s me she sees…

What's your idea of the perfect date?

Date? Well, I’ve never really been on a date. Zenn and I used to hang out before we were matched, and he’s the only one I’ve ever spent time with alone. My favorite thing we used to do is walk around the lake and watch the sun go down. That felt perfect.

If you could say anything to Thane without repercussions, what would you say?

I think I left it all on the table when it comes to Thane. Yeah, he’s not my favorite person, and I did tell him off in the book. The problem is, there is no scenario that exists where there aren’t repercussions. So I don’t know what else I’d say to him. “You’re a freaking jerk,” just doesn’t seem to cover it, you know?

I think you're quite resilient, but how would you describe yourself?

I think resilient fits pretty well. I think sometimes I’m very naive. I hate feeling like that, but no one will tell me anything! *shoots a glare at Jag* *and Zenn*

Is there anything you would like people to know about you before they start reading Possession?

Nope. I’m pretty much an open book. Or I will be, as soon as they read POSSESSION.

Thank you again for being here today, Elana and Vi! 

Elana can be found on her website, her blog, and on twitter.

Elana is also giving away 10 signed copies of POSSESSION. The giveaway is linked here.

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Vi knows the Rule: Girls don't walk with boys, and they never even think about kissing them. But no one makes Vi want to break the Rules more than Zenn...and since the Thinkers have chosen him as Vi's future match, how much trouble can one kiss cause? The Thinkers may have brainwashed the rest of the population, but Vi is determined to think for herself.

But the Thinkers are unusually persuasive, and they're set on convincing Vi to become one of them...starting by brainwashing Zenn. Vi can't leave Zenn in the Thinkers' hands, but she's wary of joining the rebellion, especially since that means teaming up with Jag. Jag is egotistical, charismatic, and dangerous--everything Zenn's not. Vi can't quite trust Jag and can't quite resist him, but she also can't give up on Zenn.

This is a game of control or be controlled. And Vi has no choice but to play.

Synopsis taken from goodreads.

The Lens and the Looker - Lory S. Kaufman

It’s the 24th century and humans, with the help of artificial intelligences (A.I.s) have finally created the perfect post-dystopian society. To make equally perfect citizens for this world, the elders have created History Camps, full sized recreations of cities from Earth’s distant pasts. Here teens live the way their ancestors did, doing the same dirty jobs and experiencing the same degradations. History Camps teach youths not to repeat the mistakes that almost caused the planet to die. But not everything goes to plan.

In this first of a trilogy, we meet three spoiled teens in the year 2347. Hansum almost 17, is good looking and athletic. Shamira, 15, is sassy, independent and an artistic genius. Lincoln, 14, is the smart-aleck. But you don’t have to scratch too far beneath the surface to find his insecurities.

These three “hard cases” refuse the valuable lessons History Camps teach. But when they are kidnapped and taken back in time to 1347 Verona, Italy, they only have two choices; adapt to the harsh medieval ways or die. The dangers are many, their enemies are powerful, and safety is a long way away. It’s hardly the ideal environment to fall in love – but that’s exactly what happens. In an attempt to survive, the trio risks introducing technology from the future. It could save them – or it could change history.

Synopsis taken from goodreads.

Title: The Lens and the Looker (Book #1 of the Verona Trilogy)

Author: Lory S. Kaufman

Genre: Young Adult, Dystopian, Historical

Publisher: The Fiction Studio

Publication Date: March 16, 2011

Format: Paperback

Source: Received from publicist. Many thanks goes to Tracee from Pump Up Your Books for sending me a copy of this book for review. I received this book free of charge in exchange for an honest review.

Tour: Pump Up Your Book 

Look for it: Amazon, Book Depository

My rating: 4/5

Hansum, Shamira, and Lincoln are three trouble-making, and spoiled teens from the year 2347. They couldn't be bothered to learn about history, and have all been relegated to spend time in "History Camps" to get a hands-on learning experience. What they don't expect, is to actually be sent back in time to the actual Verona, Italy. There are no actors here, and the three teens will have to learn to adapt to their new reality, or die. They will also have to take care that they don't do anything that would alter history. In 1347, Verona was rife with turmoil, and disease, and the trio will have to take care not to become a casualty of the times.

With these illustrious main characters, it is easy to see why Hansum, Shamira, and Lincoln were sent back in time to "History Camps." They may gain an appreciation for their lives if they knew how good they had it. Coming from a dystopian world, where everything is seemingly perfect, the three are shocked when they realize how grungy their new accommodations are. Will they be able to acclimate to their new reality and the hard work needed to survive?

Filled with historical references, political intrigue, and an in-depth look at the trade of a lens-maker, this is a rich reading experience. The three teens will have to prove their mettle if they are going to survive, and it is especially fortuitous that they are able to work with, and for, the lens-maker, Agistino. 

All in all, The Lens and the Looker is a remarkable read that gives us a fresh look at Verona in 1347. With danger lurking, as well as disease, this one will keep you at the edge of your seat wondering if the three teens will survive their learning experience, and new reality without altering history. I'm looking forward to reading what will happen next in The Bronze and the Brimstone.

A Divergent Interview with Veronica Roth: Rules to Live By

Veronica Roth stops by today on the whirlwind tour for her book, Divergent, courtesy of Teen Book Scene. I hope you all enjoy the interview! This is the last stop on the tour, but you can go back and read all of her other interviews by following along with the tour here, or by clicking through the banner.

Would you have a hard time choosing a faction to join? 


I’ve decided there’s a difference between figuring out which faction you have aptitude for and choosing which one you’d like to be in. No one fits into a faction perfectly, so determining your aptitude is extremely difficult. But as for choosing a faction, it’s all about priorities. Do you value happiness over justice? You might be Amity. How about honesty over kindness? Candor. And I would choose Dauntless, probably, because I believe in freedom and justice over comfort and safety. I might die during initiation. I’m almost sure of it, actually.

Give me three reasons (each) why you would and wouldn't want to be in Tris' place.


Why I Would:

1. She gets to see the Dauntless compound.

2. She gets to ride trains frequently. (I love trains.)

3. She is encouraged to get tattoos.

Why I Wouldn’t:

1. She has to go through a tough initiation.

2. She doesn’t get to read books.

3. Her world is falling apart.

What rules to live by would you give to those living in a Divergent themed world? 


I would start with:

1. If you’re concerned about safety, don’t choose Dauntless.

2. If you’re not physically fit, don’t choose Dauntless.

3. If you don’t want to face your fears in a simulated reality…don’t choose Dauntless.

4. And if you don’t like to be uncomfortably open with the people around you, don’t choose Candor.

5. If you’re Divergent…DON’T TALK ABOUT IT.

6. Stay away from needles.

7. You can probably trust people from Candor and Abnegation.

You find yourself standing with the business end of a sword pointed at you. You need back-up. Which character do you want to come to your aid? Why them?

I would have to say Four. He’s an instructor, for one thing, so he’s really good with weapons and combat of any kind. He also thinks well on his feet and tends to remain calm, and has a history of stepping out to help people, no matter how well he knows them.

Thank you so much for these answers, and for being here today, Veronica!

If these answers don't have you clamoring for a copy of DIVERGENT, I don't know what will.

As added incentive, here is the book trailer. Doesn't it make you want to run out right now to grab a copy?

Broken - Susan Jane Bigelow - Blog Tour Review

In a post-war future world where First Contact has been made, humans are colonizing the stars, and the nations of Earth have been united under a central government, Extrahumans are required by law to belong to the Union. When a young man with visions of the future sets out on a mission to define the course of human history, he encounters a devastated former hero, a fascist dictatorship bent on world domination, and the realities of living in a society where affiliation is everything.

Synopsis taken from goodreads.

Title: Broken

Author: Susan Jane Bigelow

Genre: Young Adult, Dystopian, Science Fiction,

Publisher: Candlemark & Gleam

Publication Date: January 25, 2011

Format: E-book

Source: Received from Susan Jane Bigelow courtesy of Teen Book Scene. Many thanks goes to Susan Jane Bigelow, and Teen Book Scene for sending me a copy of this book for review. I received this book free of charge in exchange for an honest review. 

Tour: Teen Book Scene. You can follow along with the tour here.

My rating: 4/5 

Michael has lived life on the edge, especially knowing that he can see the future through those around him. He can only see variables, and the threads of the future are ever-changing. He is on a mission though to alter the future for the better, he hopes. Michael's world is very much a dystopian one. Superhuman beings have to pledge allegiance to the Union. Government regimes rise up against each other as they battle for supremacy. Riots are erupting everywhere as the chaos deepens further, leaving everyone and everything devestated. When everything seems so overwhelmingly hopeless, it is up to Michael to bring about the seeds of peace and hope to the world. 
Michael is an industrious and brave fourteen year old tasked with a mission that is so much greater than him. He won't benefit from his actions, or see the effects of them for years to come, but his actions are needed if the world he lives in is going to change. I don't envy him his position as defeat surrounds him on all sides. Whether or not he completes his mission is the deciding factor. He is such a brave character, especially considering his prescient nature. Seeing the future of those around you, and yourself, must be hard especially when all looks bleak. However he finds the courage to keep motivated, and that is inspiring. Though he sets out on his mission alone, he also meets up with other characters who form the rag-tag team that will help him potentially complete his obstacle-laden journey. 
I especially enjoyed the fact that Broken is a superhero novel. I haven't read many superhero novels as I prefer watching them unfold on the screen, but Broken is a commendable and industrious addition to the genre.
All in all, a remarkable tale of strength and courage through even the toughest circumstances. The additional world-building adds to the overall feeling of tension within the regimes. The government upheavals also add to the precarious nature of the book where even a chance wrong word could get you killed. I think science fiction and dystopian fans will enjoy this addition to the genre. 

Interview with Leonard D. Hilley II, Author of Predators of Darkness

 Today, Leonard D. Hilley II stops by to talk about his book Predators of Darkness. Thank you for being here, Leonard! I'm currently reading Predators of Darkness and absolutely loving it! Those of you who are fans of dystopian reads should enjoy it too! 

If you were in Daniel's position, would you have done what he did, or would you have done anything differently?

With the odds Daniel faces in the first and second book, I don’t know that I’d be as bold as he is. I’d like to think that I would be, but I certainly hope such situations in real life never exist.

Did your research of genetics or genetic anomalies for Predators of Darkness: Aftermath turn up any interesting or little-known facts?

Actually the idea behind Predators of Darkness: Aftermath prompted me to finish my B.S. biology degree instead of pursuing an English major. The intrigue surrounding the genetic creation of clones and dangerous predatory animals required I know a lot more about the subject than I did. But I’ve always loved English and biology, so it wasn’t a difficult decision to make and certainly not one I regret.

If you had to put a playlist together for Predators of Darkness (the series), what songs would be on it?

The opening song for the series would have to be, “Welcome to the Jungle,” by Guns N Roses, but that song’s been a bit overdone with movies. I’m hoping for something like Javier Navarrete (Composer for Pan’s Labyrinth) or maybe James Horner (composer for Braveheart) whenever a movie is made. Both soundtracks are exceptional. This series requires a dark musical theme.

Does Daniel have a theme song? 

Maybe Tom Petty’s “I Won’t Back Down.”

If you could meet a character from any book ever written, which character and book would it be, and why?

I like Corwin’s character in Roger Zelazny’s Chronicles of Amber. But that’s due to family politics and having a father who married multiple times and siblings from the different marriages. I easily relate to the “missing father” aspect and making life decisions on my own.

Do you have any rituals that you follow when writing?

Lots of coffee and dark music. I tend to reread what I worked on the day before, revise it, and pick up where I left off.

What are you working on now?

Ann Linden and I are putting the finishing touches on the screenplay, which is perhaps one of the hardest writing endeavors I’ve encountered. It’s a lot different than writing a novel, and since the novel has already been written, it’s the process of leaning down the material into a script. Basically, we’re taking 325 pages of a novel and reducing it to 125 pages of script. One page of script typically equals one minute of film time.

Are there any projects in the works that you can tell us about?

I’m currently working on the fourth book in this series, Death’s Valley, and I’m revising a dark fantasy YA novel that I hope to see finished by the end of summer. I’m also working on a picture book for elementary students as well. Wherever the muse directs . . . .

I loved the score for Pan's Labyrinth, so I'm definitely intrigued by the musical theme that would represent Predators of Darkness. I'm happy to see there is a fourth book in the works as well! When will we see Predators of Darkness on the big screen? 

Thank you so much for being here today, Leonard!

Amazon | Book Depository | Barnes & Noble 

Blog Tour: Broken - Susan Jane Bigelow - Character Tweets

Susan Jane Bigelow's characters from Broken are here today in an interesting capacity. Have you ever wondered what your favourite characters might say if they had accounts on twitter? Look no further as Susan has created an awesome representation of her characters lives through the twitter medium. You can follow along with the rest of the Teen Book Scene blog tour for Broken here.

Note: these are all completely silly.

MonicaUNP: Totally tired of all this nasty stuff ppl say about aliens and nontraditional families. Stupid Reform Party

CONFEDMONITOR: @MonicaUNP YOUR STATEMENT IS IN VIOLATION AND HAS BEEN LOGGED

MonicaUNP: @CONFEDMONITOR O.O

MonicaUNP: o dam #seeyouinjail

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Silverwyng: Tweeting from midair!

CrimCadtLED: @Silverwyng just watch where you're going pls

Silverwyng: @CrimCadtLED don't worry @SkyRangerIII is with me!

CrimCadtLED: @Silverwyng @SkyRangerIII Ah. ...just please don't post pictures this time, okay?

SkyRangerIII: @CrimCadtLED LOL bro

CrimCadtLED: @SkyRangerIII I hate you.

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Mforward2092: Surprise math quiz today. Failed.

UnaverageJoe: @Mforward2092 shouldn't you have seen that coming?

Mforward2092: @Unaveragejoe: ...shut up.

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SkyRangerIII: Support the Reform Party in this year's elections! bit.ly/gX4UKZ #reform2105

SkyRangerIII: The Extrahuman Union is 100% behind the Reformist effort to make the Confederation better! #reform2105

SkyRangerIII: See video of me with Reform Party candidate Damian Peltan on ConFedNews, live right now! #reform2105

BrokenNYC: @SkyRangerIII …

SkyRangerIII: @BrokenNYC who are you? I hope you're supporting the Reform Party! #reform2105

BrokenNYC: @SkyRangerIII sigh

Don't those tweets make you want to learn more about the characters and their world?
Thank you, Susan, for being here today!

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In a post-war future world where First Contact has been made, humans are colonizing the stars, and the nations of Earth have been united under a central government, Extrahumans are required by law to belong to the Union. When a young man with visions of the future sets out on a mission to define the course of human history, he encounters a devastated former hero, a fascist dictatorship bent on world domination, and the realities of living in a society where affiliation is everything.

Synopsis taken from goodreads.