The Burning Time - JG Faherty - Blog Tour Review

An ancient evil has come to Hastings Mills, and only one man can stop it. 

Wherever The Stranger goes, evil follows. Wild dogs roam the fields. Townspeople turn on each other in murderous fury. Innocent women throw themselves off bridges. Swimmers disappear, victims of a deadly beast that haunts their waters. And the worst is still yet to come. The Stranger plans to open a gateway to the nether realms and release the Elder Gods to bring forth Chaos on Earth. 

Only one man knows the truth, a country mage whose family has fought The Stranger before. But can he defeat his ageless enemy before Hastings Mills is nothing but a smoking ruin and the townspeople become unwilling blood sacrifices to the Old Ones? With only the help of a young woman and her teenage son, he will have to use all of his arcane knowledge to thwart his adversary and prevent the final apocalypse. 

In Hastings Mills, The Burning Time has arrived.

Synopsis taken from goodreads.

Title: The Burning Time 

Author: JG Faherty 

Genre: Adult Fiction, Horror 

Publisher: JournalStone 

Publication Date: January 18, 2013 

Format: Finished copy. 

Source: Many thanks goes to Dark Eva for sending me a copy of this book for review. I received this book free of charge in exchange for an honest review. This review is part of JG Faherty's blog tour for The Burning Time. 

Look for it: Amazon, Book Depository 

My Rating: 3.5/5

When the Stranger comes to town, you should probably take off for parts unknown to him. When he comes to town, all the dark and chaotic energies in the universe come out to play. Wild dogs, tempers flaring to the extreme, sinister and senseless deaths. With the body count rising, and hell coming to fruition in Hastings Mill, it looks like there will be a burning time. Only one man has a chance at stopping it. With a town set against him, will he be able to stop the Stranger from burning through Hastings Mill? 

John is an interesting character. He has been around fighting evil in all entities as well as collecting lore for years. He has lost many loved ones to the Stranger in previous years. He is weary, yet dedicated to eradicating the world of the Stranger once and for all. He is flawed, yet all the more human for his flaws. 

The premise of The Burning Time makes this book sound like a good read, and it does not disappoint. It reads fluidly, though I would have liked more rounding out of the characters and situations. The horror instilled although sinister and insidious, was not bone-chilling. The book is dark, though not dark throughout, there was enough "light" when it came to John and his newfound companions. As their story unfolded, you couldn't help but like Danni and Mitch. 

The Stranger is pure evil and chaos. He alone will make the hair on the back of your neck stand up while reading. He is fanatical in his obsession to bring about the burning time. 

All in all, The Burning Time was essentially an 'easy' read as everything unfolded. I was absorbed in the tale and didn't find the horror too overbearing. That is not to say that it wasn't dark, because it had its share of darkness and death. One would not want to go to Hastings Mill anytime soon, what with all the macabre and senseless violence happening there. Fans of horror will enjoy The Burning Time. 

The Ruining - Anna Collomore - Blog Tour Review

Annie Phillips is thrilled to leave her past behind and begin a shiny new life on Belvedere Island, as a nanny for the picture-perfect Cohen family. In no time at all, she falls in love with the Cohens, especially with Libby, the beautiful young matriarch of the family. Life is better than she ever imagined. She even finds romance with the boy next door. 

All too soon cracks appear in Annie's seemingly perfect world. She's blamed for mistakes she doesn't remember making. Her bedroom door comes unhinged, and she feels like she's always being watched. Libby, who once felt like a big sister, is suddenly cold and unforgiving. As she struggles to keep up with the demands of her new life, Annie's fear gives way to frightening hallucinations. Is she tumbling into madness, or is something sinister at play? 

The Ruining is a complex ride through first love, chilling manipulation, and the terrifying depths of insanity. 

Synopsis taken from goodreads.

Title: The Ruining 

Author: Anna Collomore 

Genre: Young Adult, contemporary. 

Publisher: Razorbill 

Publication Date: February 7, 2013 

Format: E-ARC 

Source: Received from publicist. Many thanks goes to Penguin/Razorbill for sending me a copy of this book for review. I received this book free of charge in exchange for an honest review. This review is part of the Razorbill blog tour. 

Look for it: Amazon, Book Depository, Chapters 

My Rating: 4/5

Annie Phillips jumps at the chance to nanny for a family in sunny California when she realizes it would mean she could leave her current life, and family, behind. She falls in love with the Cohen family, and idolizes Libby. The adage be careful what you wish for comes into play as she realizes that not everything is ideal in her new life. She fights to hold on to her sanity as she tries to figure out if Libby is truly the person she thinks she is; or if she is the cause for all of the weird  and crippling situations that are occurring with a frightening regularity.

The Ruining has oppressive undertones that nag and worry the reader as they are reading. It is easy to see Annie's descent into madness, even though she herself cannot see it. Within the first few pages we get a glimmering of Libby's personality. However, Annie, who is completely enraptured with creating the ideal life for herself with a new family, does not see that there is something off with her 'perfect' family. 

The undertones throughout the novel continue to build this web of confusion, and madness around Annie, leaving the reader unsettled. As we find out more, we realize, long before Annie does, how dangerous Libby can be. Nothing is as it seems, and Annie will need to figure out what is going on before she loses herself, her identity, completely.

I would have liked more closure, for Annie's sake, as I felt that there were some things left unresolved. Collomore weaves a brilliant tale of madness and horror as Annie realizes that things are not alright, that she cannot trust herself, or those around her. I just wish that there had been a more visual, more tangible interaction between Annie and Libby at the end of the book once Annie comes full circle and realizes just what has happened to her. I felt the ending was a bit anti-climactic for my taste. That is not to say others won't enjoy it, I just wanted a little more action.

All in all, The Ruining is a chilling and disturbing read that does not pull any punches. Annie struggles with identity and madness. The sheer insidiousness of the book alone had me reading along wanting to know more, with the hope that Annie would realize what was happening to her before it was too late. Even now, the book has gotten under my skin, and it has left me feeling a little unsettled.      

Never Eighteen - Megan Bostic - Blog Tour Review

Austin Parker is on a journey to bring truth, beauty, and meaning to his life.

Austin Parker is never going to see his eighteenth birthday. At the rate he’s going, he probably won’t even see the end of the year. The doctors say his chances of surviving are slim to none even with treatment, so he’s decided it’s time to let go.

But before he goes, Austin wants to mend the broken fences in his life. So with the help of his best friend, Kaylee, Austin visits every person in his life who touched him in a special way. He journeys to places he’s loved and those he’s never seen. And what starts as a way to say goodbye turns into a personal journey that brings love, acceptance, and meaning to Austin’s life.

Synopsis taken from goodreads.

Title: Never Eighteen

Author: Megan Bostic

Genre: Young Adult, Contemporary

Publisher: Graphia

Publication Date: January 17, 2012

Format: ARC

Source: Received from publicist. Many thanks goes to Thomas Allen & Son Ltd for sending me a copy of this book for review. I received this book free of charge in exchange for an honest review. 

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

Look for it: Amazon, Chapters, Book Depository

My rating: 3/5

Austin knows that he is nearing the end of his life. He is resigned to his fate, and wants to mend fences with those around him and he also wants to talk to those who have touched his life in various ways. His best friend, Kaylee, helps him out on his mission, and they also visit some places that have meaning for Austin. What starts out as a mission to mend fences and saying goodbye to those Austin loves, turns into a road trip of bittersweet memories which brings resolution and meaning to the remaining days of Austin's life. 
Many readers can relate to Austin as he reminisces over the past and his role in peoples lives. He doesn't have much time left due to being in the end stages of leukemia. He knows he won't live too much longer, so he decides to pay his respects to those around him, specifically everyone who has touched his life. His story has great bones, and would have been all the more bittersweet had I formed more of an emotional attachment to him. I ached for his situation, but didn't feel that his story was as fully developed and realized as it could have been. I commiserated with him as he made the rounds through his friends and acquaintances; however some of the interactions between the characters could have been fleshed out a little more. It would have been all the more poignant. 
Kaylee was a great sidekick and friend to Austin. She was there for him throughout and I enjoyed reading about her, and how she handled all of the requests Austin sent her way. She was unflappable and helped him meet everyone on his list, as well as helped him with some of his more unusual requests; such as eating the hottest chicken wings around, and conquering some rides at the fair. She was strong, especially knowing that this may have been one of the last times that Austin could walk around freely without being bedridden. She stood resolutely by Austin and I admired her for being so strong for him. It must not have been easy for her to stand by and watch as the leukemia stole her best friend's life from him. 
All in all, this is a bittersweet read. It would have been all the more poignant had it been fleshed out a little more. It does have amazing bones, and many unique individuals grace the pages of Never Eighteen. Austin's story is a sad one, but is also uplifting in the sense that he was able to touch all of those lives and leave behind so many fond memories. 

Can You Survive: Jack London's Call of the Wild - Ryan Jacobson - Blog Tour Review and a Spooky Story for you!

Stolen. Shipped. Enslaved.

Can You Survive?

You find yourself in Alaska, a dangerous world of greedy men and savage dogs. Every moment, your life is at risk. Do you have what it takes to survive as Buck, literature’s most famous sled dog? Or will the freezing temperatures and rugged wilderness lead to your doom? Step into this adventure, and choose your path. But choose wisely, or else…

Title: Can You Survive? Jack London's Call of the Wild

Author: Ryan Jacobson

Genre: Middle Grade Fiction, Choose Your Own Adventure, Adventure, Action

Publisher: Lake 7 Creative

Publication Date: October 15, 2011

Format: ARC

Source: Received from author. Many thanks goes to Ryan Jacobson 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

My rating: 4/5

Mini-review:

Can You Survive: Jack London's Call of the Wild is an adaptation of the classic tale Call of the Wild. It has been adapted into a choose your own adventure book, where the reader becomes Buck. Choices abound for the reader as they follow along with Buck on his journey across the wilds of Alaska. 

The wilderness is a treacherous place, and death beckons to the unwary. Buck has to learn who to trust, and how to adapt to the harsh conditions he is forced into. He no longer lives in the lap of luxury and you will need to make the choices alongside him. If you make the wrong choice, that will be the end of the line for Buck. There are many different choices to make within the pages of this book, and many of them lead to Buck's demise. Will you, and he, be able to make the right decision in every situation? Only time will tell. 

I thoroughly enjoyed reading and re-living the classic tale of Call of the Wild in this format. I believe many middle grade readers and even teens will enjoy reading it as well, especially since they get to dictate what Buck does next. All in all, this is an adventurous adaptation that will have the reader living out Buck's story. 

Now for a Spooky Treat!

The Haunted Hutch

“Surprise!” exclaimed Lila Palmer.

Her daughter Jenny stifled a gasp. It was indeed a surprise—but not a good one. Jenny’s parents had unexpectedly arrived at her home, and while they were always welcome to visit, the gift they had brought was not a happy sight.

The china hutch was a gorgeous piece of furniture, but its worth was measured only in sentimental value. The antique had been passed down from mother to daughter for generations. Apparently, now it was Jenny’s turn to own it.

As a child, Jenny had never given much thought to the hutch. She would have ignored it all together if not for the times she had gotten into trouble on its behalf. The items displayed behind the hutch’s glass doors had a strange habit of rearranging themselves, and the hutch doors often popped open without explanation.

For years, Jenny shouldered the blame, even though she was innocent. Fortunately for her, when she was eight years old, her mother witnessed a door opening on its own; a statuette jumped off its shelf and onto the floor. After that, Jenny wasn’t blamed anymore.

Before the girl’s ninth birthday, the Palmers hit a stretch of bad luck. The family’s house was burglarized, and the thieves took several hunting rifles and a jewelry collection that included Lila’s heirloom wedding rings.

Mere months later, an electrical fire destroyed the Palmer’s home, consuming most of their belongings. The only item to survive the blaze was the old hutch. Lila took special care in cleaning the soot off her prized possession, and while she did so, she made a startling discovery: The two stolen wedding rings had suddenly appeared on one of the hutch’s shelves.

Even after the Palmers moved the hutch into their new home, its contents continued to change positions, and the doors sometimes opened themselves. At first, these happenings were little more than fun conversation topics. However, as the years passed, Jenny detected a ghastly pattern: Every time the hutch doors opened, a loved one died within three months!

Jenny hated herself for discovering the correlation. She spent most of her teen years in fear of finding the hutch open, and when this harbinger came, she waited in dreadful anticipation for death to find someone she cared about. It always did, without exception.

By contrast, in the years after she left the hutch behind, Jenny didn’t attend a single funeral. It would seem that in escaping the antique cabinet, she had saved her family and friends from the Grim Reaper.

Yet here it was. Death—the hutch—had found her again. Jenny silently debated her options. Although it would break her mother’s heart, she eventually chose to refuse the gift.

She didn’t have to.

As the hutch was lifted off the truck, the glass on its doors broke. Jenny tried not to smile; now she had an excuse for keeping it in the garage.

Three years came and went, and the hutch sat in storage. Time softened Jenny’s opinion of the family treasure. Eventually her sentiments got the better of her. (The hutch’s predictions of death couldn’t be real. They were simply matters of coincidence.) She fixed the hutch and moved it into her dining room.

For the better part of a month, Jenny enjoyed the old piece of furniture without incident. Then one day it happened. Jenny came home from grocery shopping to find the hutch’s doors standing open.

Exactly three months later, her 36-year-old cousin died from a heart attack. Jenny wasted no time in getting rid of the hutch, once and for all.

© Ryan Jacobson

Ryan Jacobson can be found on his website, on facebook, and on twitter.

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Ryan Jacobson has always loved choose your path books, so he is thrilled to get a chance to write them. He used his memories of those fun-filled stories and his past experiences to write LOST IN THE WILD. The book became so popular that he followed it with STORM AT THE SUMMIT OF MOUNT EVEREST and CAN YOU SURVIVE: JACK LONDON’S CALL OF THE WILD.

Ryan is the author of nearly 20 books, including picture books, comic books, graphic novels, chapter books and ghost stories. He lives in Mora, Minnesota, with his wife Lora, sons Jonah and Lucas, and dog Boo. For more details, visit www.RyanJacobsonOnline.com.

That Boy - Jillian Dodd - Blog Tour Review

That Boy is a contemporary romance about falling in love with the boys next door.

You know, being friends with two cute boys does have its benefits.

There's Danny. Danny is a golden boy in every way. He has dreamy blue eyes and blonde hair that always looks perfect, even when it’s windblown or been stuck under a football helmet. He’s the boy every girl crushes on. The boy I get into trouble with, the boy I fight with, the hot quarterback no girl can resist, not even me. Being with Danny is like being on an adventure. He has a bright, contagious smile and abs to die for. He’s pretty much irresistible.

Equally crush worthy is Phillip. Adorable, sweet Phillip, who I have known since birth. Phillip has dark hair, a perfect smile, brown eyes, and the sexiest voice I have ever heard. He’s the boy I talk to every night before I go to sleep. The boy who rescues me, the boy who can read my mind, the boy who is always there for me, the boy who tries to keep me out of trouble, the boy who irritatingly keeps getting hotter, and whose strong arms always seem to find their way around me. And when he gives me that grin, I can never say no.

One boy will give me my very first kiss.

One boy will teach me to make out.

One boy will take me to prom.

And finally, one boy will ask me to marry him.

They will both be my best friends.

But only one of them will be the boy I fall in love with.

Only one of them is That Boy.

Synopsis taken from goodreads.

Title: That Boy

Author: Jillian Dodd

Genre: Young Adult, Contemporary, Romance, Coming of Age

Publisher: Amazon Digital Services

Publication Date: May 2011

Format: E-book

Source: Received from author courtesy of Teen Book Scene. Many thanks goes to Jillian Dodd 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.

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

Look for it: Amazon

My rating: 4/5


That Boy is Jay's story. She has never been close to girls, certainly not as close friends as she is to both Phillip and Danny. She likes them both for different reasons, but doesn't want their relationship with her to change if they take things past the 'just friends' stage. If she did that, one of the relationships would never be repaired, and the other, would be a match made in heaven. Will she decide to follow her heart, and will she realize what is right in front of her, before she loses out on her forever after?
Jay is a cute main character. I enjoyed reading the book from her point of view, even when it skipped from grade to grade within a few pages. I was never lost during the transitioning  between pages as Jay kept us informed of what was going on in her life, especially pertaining to boys. She is quite the boy crazy, football wielding main character, and I found her enthusiasm infectious. She calls things as she sees them, and is a daredevil with both Phillip and Danny. At least Phillip looks after her to make sure she doesn't get into any trouble. 
I have to say though, that Phillip won my heart. He and Danny are both excellent characters, and they have their attractions and are both heart-breakers for different reasons. Phillip was there for Jay through everything. She had quite a tumultuous time during high school, but both Phillip and Danny were there for her, and it was nice to see them looking out for her. 
There are several laugh out loud scenes in this book, and some scenes are also tearjerkers. I was shocked by the turn of events at one point in the book and did end up tearing up at said point. The one thing I noticed in the book is that Jay or JJ, keeps the same attitude throughout. Her personality and character don't seem to vary much, even as the read progresses through her college years. That isn't necessarily a bad thing, but she ends up having to be told by everyone around her just what is in front of her before she realizes her feelings and the feelings of her said paramour. 
All in all, a cute coming of age read. Phillip and Danny hooked me as soon as I read about them. I absolutely loved the friendship between all three of the main characters and enjoyed reading about the trouble they got themselves into. I also enjoyed how football oriented the book is as football played a major focal point during the read. This is definitely a fun read, and I know that I will enjoy diving back in to Jay's world to see what is up next for her, Phillip, Danny, and their friends and family.  

Unwelcome - Michael Griffo - Blog Tour Review

Archangel Academy is more than a school to Michael Howard. Within its majestic buildings and serene English grounds, he's found friends, new love, and a place that feels more like home than Nebraska ever did. But the most important gift of Archangel Academy is immortality. . .

Life as a just-made vampire is challenging for Michael, even with Ronan, an experienced vamp, to guide him. Michael's abilities are still raw and unpredictable. To add to the turmoil, the ancient feud between rival vampire species is sending ripples of discord through the school. And beneath the new headmaster's charismatic front lies a powerful and very personal agenda.

Yet the mysteries lurking around the Academy pale in comparison to the secrets emerging from Michael's past. And choosing the wrong person to trust—or to love—could lead to an eternity of regret. . .

Synopsis taken from goodreads.

Title: Unwelcome (Archangel Academy)

Author: Michael Griffo

Genre: Young Adult, Paranormal, Urban Fantasy, Vampires

Publisher: Kensington

Publication Date: August 30, 2011

Format: Softcover

Source: Received from publicist. Many thanks goes to Kensington Books, 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. 

Blog Tour: Teen Book Scene blog tour. 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: 3.5/5 

Unwelcome picks up right where Unnatural left off. Michael is at Archangel Academy, and he is at the start of a new semester. After the events of the previous semester, he is hoping to just relax and enjoy the company of his new boyfriend. However, evil still lurks and is not done with Michael and Archangel Academy yet. The vampire factions are at the precipice of a war, and immortality may be cut short at any time. Danger and intrigue abound at Archangel Academy. Will Michael and Ronan survive, and will they still be united together? 
Unwelcome was an engrossing read. Many new characters were thrown at the reader, however they were a welcome addition to the Archangel Academy crew. New villains rose to the challenge, and previously reliable friends are unwittingly crossing into enemy territory. There is still a lot of head jumping in the book as the point of view switches between several characters per page. Once you are used to the narrative style, and know the characters, it is easy to follow along with the different perspectives. I did find that in Unwelcome the head jumping was more refined and fluid as it would follow a set train of thought with a few characters. Michael would be going to confront his father, and Brania would be going to confront hers and it would switch back and forth between both of their conversations, much like a tv show of sorts. 
Several new characters were added to the already large cast, and they brought both humour and suspense with them. We glean more insight into some of the new characters, and more tidbits are revealed about the different vampire factions, however there are still some aspects that are cloaked in secrecy yet. Hopefully they will be revealed within the next book as they will let us know more about the different factions and how they came to be. 
Many intriguing twists are revealed in Unwelcome and it kept the story moving. Griffo is not afraid of killing characters once he is done with them, so be warned, some of your favourites could end up on the chopping block. 
All in all, a solid follow-up to Unnatural. Relationships evolve to give us a new perspective on situations that we hadn't previously seen before. New family members entering the picture add another dimension as well as we get to see more of the vampire world and the inner workings of set family dynamics. I'm intrigued to know what will happen next for Michael, Ronan and their friends.

Always a Witch - Carolyn MacCullough - Blog Tour Review

The adventures of Tam and Gabriel continue with more time travel, Talents, spy work, and of course, the evil Knights.

Since the gripping conclusion of Once A Witch, Tamsin Greene has been haunted by her grandmother's prophecy that she will soon be forced to make a crucial decision—one so terrible that it could harm her family forever. When she discovers that her enemy, Alistair Knight, went back in time to Victorian-era New York in order to destroy her family, Tamsin is forced to follow him into the past. Stranded all alone in the nineteenth century, Tamsin soon finds herself disguised as a lady's maid in the terrifying mansion of the evil Knight family, avoiding the watchful eye of the vicious matron, La Spider, and fending off the advances of Liam Knight. As time runs out, both families square off in a thrilling display of magic. And to her horror, Tamsin finally understands the nature of her fateful choice.

Synopsis taken from goodreads.

Title: Always a Witch (Sequel to Once a Witch)

Author: Carolyn MacCullough

Genre: Young Adult, Paranormal, Witches, Urban Fantasy

Publisher: Clarion Books

Publication Date: August 1, 2011

Format: Hardcover

Source: Received from publicist. Many thanks goes to Thomas Allen & Son for sending me a copy of this book for review. I received this book free of charge in exchange for an honest review. 

Blog Tour: Teen Book Scene blog tour. 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: 5/5

Tamsin Greene once believed she was an ordinary girl in an extraordinary family. Now, she alone has the power to change the future for her family as they are plagued by the evil and illustrious Knight family. With Tamsin's talent, she can do almost everything. Well, except for time travelling to the past and getting back to the present time; but she won't let a little thing like time travel stop her from fulfilling her destiny. 

I fell in love with Once A Witch when I read it last year, and Always a Witch lived up to my expectations completely. The loving familial bond between Tamsin and her family is still there, and a certain scene involving the fridge, poisoned sugary confections, and a well-known song all make an appearance which will have the reader laughing along at the crazy antics that happen in the Greene family. This of course, is before Tamsin realizes just what she has to do to save her family from certain destruction. But, as with the first novel, Tamsin doesn't let her fear stop her. She jumps at the chance to fix things, as she wants to take care of her family. Sure, she's impetuous. Especially when there's that pesky thing called time travel involved. Not knowing what will happen is part of the charm, and she will make it home somehow. At least she hopes she will. You have to commend her for her bravery there. She willingly puts her life on the line for her family, and she might not have thought through every aspect, but she is smart and decides that she will figure things out as they play out. 

Gabriel is her male counter-part and love interest. He is a lot fun, and he complements Tamsin perfectly. He is level-headed, has a good sense of humour, and cares for Tamsin deeply. He is perfect for her, especially since he has grown up with her family and has a talent or two of his own. He also has a penchant for looking out for Tamsin, which helps when she realizes she might not have thought through every aspect of her plans. 

With a plot full of twists and turns, and evil villains around every corner, you will be holding your breath, hoping that Tamsin will survive long enough to save her family. The added background from her last foray into time travel helps as well as she meets certain members from the Knight family for the second time, but really it's the first time for them. This leads to a few moments of panic on her part, until she realizes that their future selves know her, not their present selves. 

All in all, a worthy follow-up to Once A Witch. Always a Witch will keep you spell-bound while Tamsin tries to find her family, and the evil Knight family in the past. Will she succeed where her family has failed in the past? One won't know until the conclusion, and even then certain events come full circle from the first book to this one, leaving the reader with an "aha!" moment. I would definitely recommend Always a Witch. Love, laughter, and family will always be a drawing card for me. Mix in a notoriously evil, rival family and hi-jinks will ensue. 

Ashes - Estevan Vega - Blog Tour Review

More than three months have passed since Arson and Emery were taken. Taken and then separated.

And experimented on.

Salvation Asylum is more like a prison than a psychiatric facility. Unknowingly, Arson has become a vital instrument in a campaign set to genetically alter mankind. Enraged, confused, trapped, and unable to fully manifest his abilities, he wonders if he will ever see Emery again. His new existence is one crawling with questions. Is Grandma alive? Where does the fire come from? Can he become more than a monster?

In Ashes, book two of the ARSON series, nightmare and reality collide as Arson must embrace what he is and the haunting realization that there may be others out there, others like him.

Title: Ashes (Arson #2)

Author: Estevan Vega

Genre: Young Adult, Thriller, Speculative Fiction, Paranormal

Publisher: Stonegate Ink

Publication Date: September 11, 2011

Format: E-ARC

Source: Received from author courtesy of Teen Book Scene. Many thanks goes to Estevan Vega 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. 

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

Look for it: Amazon

My rating: 4/5

Arson and Emery find themselves locked away, hidden from the world in a bizarre place. Left on their own, they need to find themselves, and come to terms with the events that brought them to their current residence. Everything is surreal as they learn more about themselves and their surroundings. Held captive against their will, they will need to lean on their survival instincts and come to terms with who they are, and who they are meant to be. 

While Arson brought us the story of a misplaced teenager, one who could start fires with his mind; Ashes brings us the terrifying sequel, in which Arson is held captive by those wanting to experiment on him to fulfill their own needs. Ashes is a much darker read than Arson and the psychological ramifications will have you reading long into the night. Vega is at the top of his game as he threads together both Arson's and Emery's stories, as they discover what brought them to the Asylum. Is Arson the monster he always thought he was, or is he something more? Can he achieve more? Is there a greater purpose for him? All these questions are asked as the reader partakes on a highly disturbing and dark ride through the underbelly of Salvation Asylum. 

New characters show their faces, and their pathos will leave you feeling uneasy as you press on through this volume in Arson's saga. There is a lot of new information thrown at the reader, but the flashbacks to the first novel make the transition as seamless as possible. One cannot help but root for Arson and Emery as they struggle to free themselves from their captors. Joel and Aimee's struggle for closure, and their pursuit for help after Emery's disappearance adds a much-needed dimension to the novel. Following their struggles gives the reader a reprieve from the darkness hidden within the Asylum before heading back into the depths. 

All in all, this is a compelling read. Eloquently written and darkly disturbing this one will stick with the reader as they delve further into the book. By no means is Arson's story done as Vega has left the ending open to continue in another installment. One can only hope that Arson will find the answers to his questions, and the solace that he craves. 

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. =)

Seers - Heather Frost - Blog Tour Review & Author Interview

For Kate Bennet, surviving the car wreck that killed her parents means big changes and even bigger problems. As she begins to see auras and invisible people, Kate must learn to trust Patrick O'Donnell, a handsome Guardian, or risk her life being overrun with Demons. She soon realizes that both she and her heart are in big-time trouble.

Synopsis taken from goodreads.

Title: Seers

Author: Heather Frost

Genre: Young Adult, Paranormal

Publisher: Bonneville

Publication Date: October 4, 2011

Format: E-ARC

Source: Received from netgalley courtesy of the Cedar Fort Publishing blog tour. Many thanks goes to Laura and Netgalley for sending me a copy of this book for review. I received this book free of charge in exchange for an honest review. 

Blog tour: Cedar Fort Publishing Blog Tour

Look for it: Amazon, Book Depository

My rating: 4/5 

This last year hasn't been easy for Kate. She lost her parents in a car accident. The same accident that contributed to Kate's new abnormal penchant for seeing auras. Convinced that she was going crazy, she clammed up and said she was fine, that the visions disappeared. However, they in fact continued to shine in brilliance around her. She doesn't think anything of her new gift until she sees several beings with sinister looking auras. When she learns that evil walks among the living, she'll have to decide what is worth fighting for. 

Kate's had a hard time, which is understandable. Having lost both her parents in an accident it is easy to commiserate with Kate as she struggles to come to terms with her new reality. Having the ability to see auras complicates things as well, but she shows that she is a trooper, and once she's committed to something, she'll see it through. With her new abilities changing and expanding, it's easy to see how intimidating situations can be, especially when you throw demons in the mix. 

One of the aspects I loved most about the book are the characters. Lee is the happiest and friendliest best friend ever. She also happens to be a goth this year. Every year she changes her look, but she sticks by Kate and pushes her to choose between the two guys in Kate's life. She brings about some of the funniest elements in the book and I couldn't help loving her character. 

Patrick is a fantastic character as well. I loved reading about him in the prologue and getting a view of him that Kate doesn't necessarily get to see at first. He's the embodiment of the perfect guy, though it takes a while for Kate to see that. 

Though Seers brings about the tried and true method of guardian angels, demons and seers, it is still a refreshing read, made all the more fun with the mostly memorable cast of characters. The plot may be predictable in some places, but the bond between Kate and her family, as well as her friends will have you reading well into the night. 

All in all, an enjoyable read. I'm left curious, wanting to know what happens next. Paranormal fans should enjoy this one. Though the plot was predictable at times, and I wasn't riveted to my seat, I did find it a fast-paced and fun read, especially when Lee was in control. The characters absolutely make this book. 

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Author Interview

If you could describe yourself in one song, what would it be and why?

It depends on the day. I've often said my theme song would have to be “Pinch Me”, by the Bare Naked Ladies. I'm an introvert at heart, and sometimes that turns me a bit lethargic. “Pinch Me” really captures those emotions for me—the desire to act, but never quite doing anything because I'm content with where I'm at. But for today, I'd have to say the best song to describe me would be “Let the Music Play”, by Good Charlotte. The song is all about giving your best, and then learning to just enjoy the moment. I've found in my own life that it takes both good and bad experiences to make a full life, and so I continually try to have a positive attitude, no matter what.

Can you give us a description of SEERS in haiku?

Seers can discern

Between warring immortals

So now they are prey

If you could live within the pages of one book, what book would you live in and why?

Oh, the possibilities! There are so many I could pick, but I'll go with my first thought: Harry Potter. Who wouldn't want to go to Hogwarts and learn magic? I mean, really?

If you were a super-hero, which one would you be and why?

Batman. He takes his fear of bats and learns to work it to his advantage. He does the same thing with his hard past—he doesn't try to block it out or forget it; he allows the hard times to turn him into someone better. He doesn't care what others think about him, and he certainly knows he's not perfect. That doesn't stop him from trying to help other people, though. I like how self sacrificing he is. I wouldn't mind having his money, either.

Do you have any quirks that you employ while writing?

When I'm writing a scene, I often find myself stopping to read at least the dialogue out loud. I sound like an idiot, but it helps me to get a better feel for the words, and the punctuation. That particular habit drives the people around me crazy, even though I try to keep it down.

Thank you for being here today and answering my questions, Heather! 

Heather can be found on her website, facebook, and on twitter. 

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Heather Frost was born in Sandy, Utah, and raised in a small Northern Utah town. She is the second oldest of ten children, and she loves her family very much. She is currently pursuing her bachelor's degree in English. She has always been an avid reader, and reading and writing are among her most favorite things to do. She also enjoys playing the flute, listening to all types of music, and watching a wide variety of movies. Ever since she wrote her first short story—at the age of four—she has dreamed of one day becoming an author. Seers is her first published novel.

Song of the Nile - Stephanie Dray - Blog Tour Review

Sorceress. Seductress. Schemer. Cleopatra's daughter is the one woman with the power to destroy an empire...

Having survived her perilous childhood as a royal captive of Rome, Selene pledged her loyalty to Augustus and swore she would become his very own Cleopatra. Now the young queen faces an uncertain destiny in a foreign land.

The magic of Isis flowing through her veins is what makes her indispensable to the emperor. Against a backdrop of imperial politics and religious persecution, Cleopatra's daughter beguiles her way to the very precipice of power. She has never forgotten her birthright, but will the price of her mother's throne be more than she's willing to pay?

Synopsis taken from goodreads.

Title: Song of the Nile

Author: Stephanie Dray

Genre: Adult Fiction, Historical

Publisher: Penguin Group Incorporated (USA)

Publication Date: October 4, 2011

Format: E-ARC

Source: Received from publicist. Many thanks goes to Shelly 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

My rating: 4/5

Selene has been both a princess, and captive in her short life. Now, she is set to become Queen, as long as she remains loyal to Augustus. She is devoted to Isis as well, and now that Rome no longer worships Isis, Selene has to worship in private. Isis is a part of her, as much as Egypt is. She will have to travel a treacherous slope if she is to return to her native Egypt, but will she be strong enough to do anything to gain her desires? 

My recollection is that Selene isn't a well-known character from Egyptian history, but Dray brings her to life. She re-imagines the world and times and brings to life the rivalries, and family bonds inherent during the time period of the Ptolemy reign, as well as their subsequent captivity. I was fascinated by Selene. Her relationship with Augustus was tumultuous to say the least. I enjoyed reading how Selene grew from a child to a woman, even with all that happened to her. She was a strong woman, playing the political and religious minefield as she struggled to regain what she wanted the most. 

Dray is a skilled storyteller as she weaves fiction in with history. I appreciated her notes at the end of the book which described the events she lifted from history. I also enjoyed how she rounded out the characters, as she gave us plausible scenarios for how certain scenes came about. I definitely want to find out more, and I love how rich Song of the Nile is with history. 

All in all, a captivating read for those wanting to learn more about Selene, and Augustus and this period in Egyptian and Roman history. With lush descriptions, this is certainly an enjoyable read, even when unpleasant events arise. I'm curious to read more about Selene now and will be checking out the rest of Dray's novels.