Showing posts with label Drama. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Drama. Show all posts
Friday, April 26, 2013
The Rules
by Stacey Kade
Published: April 23, 2013
Pages: 416

by Stacey Kade
Published: April 23, 2013
Pages: 416
1. Never trust anyone.
2. Remember they are always searching.
3. Don’t get involved.
4. Keep your head down.
5. Don’t fall in love.
Five simple rules. Ariane Tucker has followed them since the night she escaped from the genetics lab where she was created, the result of combining human and extraterrestrial DNA. Ariane’s survival—and that of her adoptive father—depends on her ability to blend in among the full-blooded humans in a small Wisconsin town, to hide in plain sight at her high school from those who seek to recover their lost (and expensive) “project.”
But when a cruel prank at school goes awry, it puts her in the path of Zane Bradshaw, the police chief’s son and someone who sees too much. Someone who really sees her. After years of trying to be invisible, Ariane finds the attention frightening—and utterly intoxicating. Suddenly, nothing is simple anymore, especially not the rules…
Saturday, January 19, 2013
Heeeeey! Happy Saturday. At least, I hope you are having a happy Saturday. Some of you probably know about the blog drama that has gone down with a blog that has been plagiarizing lots of people. Anna at Sparkles & Lightning was one of the affected bloggers. (Gosh that sounds so Dystopian). Anyway, that day once I'd heard about it from Anna, we had a pretty crazy discussion about plagiarism along with Jessi at Auntie Spinelli Reads.
We ranted and got pretty mad about plagiarism, as we talked it all out. Hence, Operation Plagiarism Sucks was born. So today, on this the 19th of January, you can find all of us, along with Nikki from Fiction Freak, and other bloggers posting about Plagiarism, because we feel that lots of times, this kind of thing happens and then people just blow it off later as DRAMA. That's why our tagline disagrees. BECAUSE IT IS NOT JUST DRAMA. That is what we are talking about. The ins and outs. The good and the bad. Think of it as Plagiarism...unveiled.
We ranted and got pretty mad about plagiarism, as we talked it all out. Hence, Operation Plagiarism Sucks was born. So today, on this the 19th of January, you can find all of us, along with Nikki from Fiction Freak, and other bloggers posting about Plagiarism, because we feel that lots of times, this kind of thing happens and then people just blow it off later as DRAMA. That's why our tagline disagrees. BECAUSE IT IS NOT JUST DRAMA. That is what we are talking about. The ins and outs. The good and the bad. Think of it as Plagiarism...unveiled.
@annabellemariev @inkyreads @geobobspinelli Yeah plagirism is very underated and nobody ever even notices it goes on! I'd be mad if I were u
— Kierra (@Kiki3239) January 16, 2013
NOTE: That was a very calm explanation. I'm not going to scream bloody murder, but in the following post, I will be sarcastic, and somewhat ranty about things. These are my honest opinions. Please also note, that within the following post there will be quite a few gifs and tweets to express my points. You've been warned.Plagiarism Hurts. It hurts like heck. And it always spreads like a virus. Affecting so many people. Doesn't matter if you are the affected one, or the plagiarist yourself. YOU ARE HURT. And even people like me, who aren't touched, get hurt. It's really sad to see the loss of a blogger friend because of drama. It's sad to see people break honesty codes. People you had trusted. It just HURTS YOU GUYS. So. Let's walk through this story of pain shall we?
When you're a blogger and you write a review, or any post, that is your own original work. And you are proud of that work.
You've written something worthy of being shared on the internet and wow! people are actually reading it! So the fact that then someone would swoop in and TAKE their work makes no sense at all.
Plagiarism, plain and simple is taking someone else's original work and calling it your own, without crediting the original author. That enough she be throwing warning bells. And it's not okay.
But that thing I don't get is why people plagiarize! It's a CONSCIOUS action people. It's not a choice you can make under duress, or hypnotism. On the contrary! YOU CAN NOT PLAGIARIZE AND GET AWAY WITH IT. Seriously, if you are blog plagiarizing, that means you are on the internet. The internet is a public place my friends, this is not something you do without knowing. It's will-full knowing that you are STEALING peoples things. To us, it's like this:
Where are your morals?
What happened to THOU SHALT NOT STEAL? .
@annabellemariev @nikki_wang @geobobspinelli There is NO excuse for anything LIKE this! NOTHING. It's stupidity.In the end it always, goes stale and moldy, so why even do it in the first place? Why in the world to you plagiarize? There is no such thing as an excuse in this case. "I'M NOT CREATIVE ENOUGH TO WRITE MY OWN THING", or "BUT I JUST LOVED THE WAY SHE WROTE IT" will not cut it. If you aren't creative enough to have your own content then why are you blogging? Your blog is exactly that, YOURS. Not your best friends. Not your sisters
— Hannah (@InkyReads) January 14, 2013
Oh and what about taking COPYRIGHTED work, hmm? See, my blog is protected by a Copyright. Annabelle's blog was protected by a copyright. By taking things from her blog or any blog without permission or credit given, AND THEY HAVE IT COPYRIGHT PROTECTED, well that is worse. It's heinous. I mean what are you try to accomplish here? The blogging world isn't a Survival TV Show. It's pure fun, if you keep it that way. [To protect your blog visit HERE.]
I can not condone anything relating to stealing people's writing. I generally don't get involved in Blogger-Bashing-Battles, but I can't agree at all with the things that happen in these situations. Everything is staring them(you) in the face, and yet, people can be so blind. So blind that they don't see see the hurt, lingering there. That sneaky conscience you have will comment the act is NOTHING like the feeling when it runs straight into your head of the people of your master. From the writers perspective is crushing. They may be putting on a brave front,
but on the inside....it's a mess. They're annoyed, and most likely very mad that all their hard work went to waste.
@kiki3239 @inkyreads @geobobspinelli I'm madder than mad. I seriously am seeing red just thinking of this.
— Annabelle Lovell (@AnnabelleMarieV) January 16, 2013
@annabellemariev I do to! It's a horrible feeling to know someone copied your work that you spent so much time on. :(
— Amy Fournier (@amabe421) January 16, 2013
@amabe421 That's a new development. The worst part is the blogger showed no remorse whatsoever, like she thought she was the victim.
— Annabelle Lovell (@AnnabelleMarieV) January 16, 2013
@annabellemariev Yeah, I think that was the problem. And obviously if she took down a bunch of stuff she was trying to hide what she did.It's extremely sad to watch these kinds of things happen and know that it was because of one tiny act, that could be so easily passed over, but wasn't, ruined so many bloggers. You all remember the drama of last year right? That hurt so many people that I know. Finding out a good blogger friend is a thief? That your idol is a "criminal"? Doesn't feel so good.
— Amy Fournier (@amabe421) January 16, 2013
And I'm sure the plagiarizer doesn't feel so chipper any more either. This person's blog secret has been found out and exposed and no there is all this ranting and shouting and cursing and hurt heading their way. Yeah, they always dish out sappy apologies, and that is great, but at the same time it's hard to forgive people, or think logically, when they could have prevented the situation in the first place. And plagiarizers get that kind of response. The negativity bounces back to hit them full on. It's a chain reaction, and the pain spares no one.
Do we get the point? It hurts. People break off friendships because of this thing. People leave the blogosphere. Trust is lost. And it's all caused by an incident that people knew about when it started. There are always choices in life. This is just one of the sadder, more tragic ones. But one that is made nonetheless. That's really all I have to say on the matter. So as I wrap up my post I have a couple last things to put out there.
First, I am NOT condemning people. I make it my place to stay out of this kind of thing. When big drama happens, I express my distaste and condone with the person who got hurt but I don't feel like I need to run around making judgement on people. I hardly know them, and it's not my place. I understand that people make mistakes, even if they are more serious dishonest ones. But second, I DO NOT agree with it at all. That's what my post was about. Sharing the ugly truth of plagiarizing and hoping it helped you all to open your eyes and take another look at what plagiarism is, and how it affects people. Protect your blog. Pledge honesty. The blogosphere has so much good, and so much evil. Let's be the good. Plagiarism Sucks, so let's stop it.
Thank you guys so much for listening to this. Since this is a part of a group posting, make sure to check out the posts from Annabelle and Jessi:
Read Jessi's Thoughts HERE.
Read Annabelle's Thoughts HERE.
Also check out Nikki's Thoughts & Eileen's Thoughts, and/or grab the button for this and promote Operation Plagiarism Sucks on your blog! We'd appreciate it!
Labels:Blogging Issues,Drama,GIF,Plagiarism Sucks | 18
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Thursday, August 16, 2012
Author: Robin LaFevers
Published: 4.3.12 by Houghton Mifflin
Pages: 549
Pages: 549
Why be the sheep, when you can be the wolf? Seventeen-year-old Ismae escapes from the brutality of an arranged marriage into the sanctuary of the convent of St. Mortain, where the sisters still serve the gods of old. Here she learns that the god of Death Himself has blessed her with dangerous gifts—and a violent destiny. If she chooses to stay at the convent, she will be trained as an assassin and serve as a handmaiden to Death. To claim her new life, she must destroy the lives of others.
Ismae’s most important assignment takes her straight into the high court of Brittany—where she finds herself woefully under prepared—not only for the deadly games of intrigue and treason, but for the impossible choices she must make. For how can she deliver Death’s vengeance upon a target who, against her will, has stolen her heart?
Ismae’s most important assignment takes her straight into the high court of Brittany—where she finds herself woefully under prepared—not only for the deadly games of intrigue and treason, but for the impossible choices she must make. For how can she deliver Death’s vengeance upon a target who, against her will, has stolen her heart?
add it on goodreads
Inky's Blurbings:
I heard so much good blurb about this book, and with the crazy awesome premise and cover I bought it. No second thoughts. But honestly before I started it, I wasn't sure what I would think of Assassin Nuns....serving the god of Death. Don't get me wrong I was totally hooked by the idea of Assasin Nuns and all that, I was just a little unsure. Okay so maybe I had like itty-bitty doubts.
Boy, did this book deliver! Robin is a genius! Wow. I absolutely loved the writing and the way that you are drawn into Ismae's voice and her story. It was seriously enchanting. Beautiful writing. And how she planted it in a rich (actual) historic backdrop with a medieval atmosphere and intrigue, it was awesome. Everything about the setting she choose, England (always good with me) to the characters, Anne the Duchess of Brittany was just fabulous. A++!
Ismae was a wonderful heroine. Her voice was clear and easy to connect with. I honestly don't have much to say about her, other than the above! One of the biggest aspects in this book is the romance relationship. Duval, is the main male protagonist and totally hot. Wow. So that adds quite a bit of spice to the romantic edge. But what I also love is that this book is not insta-love or insta-attraction/interest! It's insta-dislike! Those would have to be one of my favorite kinds of romances because development and trust has to happen to the two characters before they can reach love.
This was SO well portrayed in the book. It slowly developed and was real, and not fake. Wow. Just wow. I've heard the author say that she calls her book an Epic Romance. But sometimes it felt a little too much on the romance side. Hence the content.
Content: Moderate-Heavy
(Quite a few historical deity references throughout. Plenty of innuendo from members in the nunnery (those associated with womanly arts) as well as out in the world. Women were quite low-cut dresses. A few steamy and suggestive scenes. Overall a little much.)
Because I felt the content was a little to much for my liking but I really liked the story and everything else, I'm giving this book........
4.5 Stars
Have you read Grave Mercy? Thoughts? TNT,
Labels:Adventure,Drama,Favorite,Historical,Review,Romance,YA | 1 comments
Tuesday, August 14, 2012
Author: Jennifer Lynn Barnes
Published: 6.8.10 by Egmont
Pages: 418
Inky's Blurbings
I don't read a lot of werewolf books. I just don't. I've never been a big fan of those human-turned-blood-lusting-creature kind of books. So when this was chosen as my Random Read for July I was a little unsure what to expect. But this book surprised me. Even though I eventually gave it 3.5 stars, I liked it more that I thought I would.
Bryn wasn't a very hard MC to connect with at all. She was well explained and you could understand most of the reasoning behind feelings and choices. But still was still WAY to stubborn. Or just...pig-headed. Sometimes I would be sitting and thinking "You idiot! What are you doing?" It wasn't overly bad though, just a few times luckily. But other than some of her moments, it was really interesting to watch the mental struggles and strong points about her, including her weird power, which I will not say anything about.
As for supporting characters Devon and Lake were THE BEST. Hands down. Devon was this werewolf who's a geek for musicals. Um, yes please? And then we have Lake, a kick-butt werewolf with a gun named Matilda. If I ever get bit, I know who is going to be my new BF. Callum, the alpha of the pack, was half parent, half alpha to Bryn. Their relationship was one of the most unique I think I've ever read. Of course it's not often that you see a werewolf-turned-parent-to-a-human.Seeing the tension, growth and understanding between them was really well portrayed. The triangle between Callum and Bryn and the Pack was all very good, and hard to explain, yet really interesting to see how she focused on the Pack more than in individuals. A very nice take I think.
But I think the thing that drove me the most nuts, was the romance. Ugh, talk about insta-love? So it wasn't insta-LOVE. I didn't feel very much of the love in their relationship. It was more like insta-BOND. It was a little weird though. She's drawn to him because they went through similar situations and she wants to talk to someone who understands. But from the near beginning it's like, I-Have-To-Be-With-You... And then there is this whole deal with psychic connection to the pack and how Bryn kinds bonds the two of them so they need each other. All in all, it was strange and confusing. Maybe it sounds that way to you. (sorry it I'm confusing you!) But the bottom line is, I didn't feel any development. No growing relationship, where the characters really got to know each other as well as they could have. Just...bonding.
However Jennifer still portrayed a good setting, and story. I really did enjoy it for the most part and her writing wasn't all flawed. Yes, it seemed a little TOO poetic or wordy, at times, but it flowed and was nice for the most part. Hopefully, I haven't confused you in my blurbings. I would recommend this as a nice read if you like the werewolf aspect of paranormals. But it is not a favorite or a book I feel is a must-read. I have left out talking about a big part of the plot was super interesting and great, but more talk would be spoilers. Soo...that is Raised by Wolves.
Have you read this book? What did you think? I'd love to hear! TNT,

Published: 6.8.10 by Egmont
Pages: 418
Adopted by the Alpha of a werewolf pack after a rogue wolf brutally killed her parents right before her eyes, fifteen-year-old Bryn knows only pack life, and the rigid social hierarchy that controls it. That doesn't mean that she's averse to breaking a rule or two.
But when her curiosity gets the better of her and she discovers Chase, a new teen locked in a cage in her guardian's basement, and witnesses him turn into a wolf before her eyes, the horrific memories of her parents' murders return. Bryn becomes obsessed with getting her questions answered, and Chase is the only one who can provide the information she needs. But in her drive to find the truth, will Bryn push too far beyond the constraints of the pack, forcing her to leave behind her friends, her family, and the identity that she's shaped?
But when her curiosity gets the better of her and she discovers Chase, a new teen locked in a cage in her guardian's basement, and witnesses him turn into a wolf before her eyes, the horrific memories of her parents' murders return. Bryn becomes obsessed with getting her questions answered, and Chase is the only one who can provide the information she needs. But in her drive to find the truth, will Bryn push too far beyond the constraints of the pack, forcing her to leave behind her friends, her family, and the identity that she's shaped?
I don't read a lot of werewolf books. I just don't. I've never been a big fan of those human-turned-blood-lusting-creature kind of books. So when this was chosen as my Random Read for July I was a little unsure what to expect. But this book surprised me. Even though I eventually gave it 3.5 stars, I liked it more that I thought I would.
Bryn wasn't a very hard MC to connect with at all. She was well explained and you could understand most of the reasoning behind feelings and choices. But still was still WAY to stubborn. Or just...pig-headed. Sometimes I would be sitting and thinking "You idiot! What are you doing?" It wasn't overly bad though, just a few times luckily. But other than some of her moments, it was really interesting to watch the mental struggles and strong points about her, including her weird power, which I will not say anything about.
As for supporting characters Devon and Lake were THE BEST. Hands down. Devon was this werewolf who's a geek for musicals. Um, yes please? And then we have Lake, a kick-butt werewolf with a gun named Matilda. If I ever get bit, I know who is going to be my new BF. Callum, the alpha of the pack, was half parent, half alpha to Bryn. Their relationship was one of the most unique I think I've ever read. Of course it's not often that you see a werewolf-turned-parent-to-a-human.Seeing the tension, growth and understanding between them was really well portrayed. The triangle between Callum and Bryn and the Pack was all very good, and hard to explain, yet really interesting to see how she focused on the Pack more than in individuals. A very nice take I think.
But I think the thing that drove me the most nuts, was the romance. Ugh, talk about insta-love? So it wasn't insta-LOVE. I didn't feel very much of the love in their relationship. It was more like insta-BOND. It was a little weird though. She's drawn to him because they went through similar situations and she wants to talk to someone who understands. But from the near beginning it's like, I-Have-To-Be-With-You... And then there is this whole deal with psychic connection to the pack and how Bryn kinds bonds the two of them so they need each other. All in all, it was strange and confusing. Maybe it sounds that way to you. (sorry it I'm confusing you!) But the bottom line is, I didn't feel any development. No growing relationship, where the characters really got to know each other as well as they could have. Just...bonding.
However Jennifer still portrayed a good setting, and story. I really did enjoy it for the most part and her writing wasn't all flawed. Yes, it seemed a little TOO poetic or wordy, at times, but it flowed and was nice for the most part. Hopefully, I haven't confused you in my blurbings. I would recommend this as a nice read if you like the werewolf aspect of paranormals. But it is not a favorite or a book I feel is a must-read. I have left out talking about a big part of the plot was super interesting and great, but more talk would be spoilers. Soo...that is Raised by Wolves.
3.5 Stars
Labels:Drama,Random Reads,Review,Romance,Teen-Adult Read,YA | 0
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Monday, June 11, 2012
Author: Branden Sanderson
Series: Mistborn #2
Published: 8. 21. 07 by Tom Doherty/Tor Fantasy
Pages:796
add to your Goodreads
They did the impossible, deposing the godlike being whose brutal rule had lasted a thousand years. Now Vin, the street urchin who has grown into the most powerful Mistborn in the land, and Elend Venture, the idealistic young nobleman who loves her, must build a healthy new society in the ashes of an empire.
They have barely begun when three separate armies attack. As the siege tightens, an ancient legend seems to offer a glimmer of hope. But even if it really exists, no one knows where to find the Well of Ascension or what manner of power it bestows. It may just be that killing the Lord Ruler was the easy part. Surviving the aftermath of his fall is going to be the real challenge.
Inky's Blurbings
Once again Branden Sanderson has stuck me in an AFTER-SHOCK of AWESOMENESS. Eeep! Wow. Honestly, truth be told, when I first started this book it wasn't as good as I thought it would be. It wasn't living up to the first book but then it happened. Bombs started getting dropped and it got good. The last 200 pages or so were INCREDIBLE. Oh man.
This is told from multiple narratives. I loved how well they bended and were all unique, giving a really great depth into the story from all the different aspects. I think that really added and made it all the more shocking and amazing. I LOVE VIN. She is like the bomb. Of course you're supposed to love Vin and it's hard not to. She goes through some amazing character development that continued from book one, so do the other characters. It's just amazing the Branden is capable of such a thing.
Elend and Vin have got to have the best fictional romance EVER. Honestly I'm in love with them. In this book they are seriously tested but come out strong and I just love them to death.
Shocking secrets totally blew me away. Branden is so good at taking little itty bitty things and blowing them up. This book didn't go where I thought it would when I first started it. It was a SERIOUSLY CRAZY ride. But I loved all 700 pages of it.
So once again I've been wowed and thrilled by a super-duper exciting, nail-bitting trilogy. I'm starting book three, Hero of Ages ASAP!
Content: Moderate
(Some language(D***, He**, Bloody, swearing on the Lord Ruler/gods). Mention of evil things such as men having many mistresses. Violence and action. Somewhat gory descriptions in places.)
them the next day so nothing happens ) Violence. Somewhat specific details a few times.
Read My Review of The First Book!
This review is 100% from Inky's brain.
Use of this review w/out consent is prohibited.
Saturday, June 2, 2012
Author: Brandon Sanderson
Series: Mistborn #1
Published: 6. 25. 06 by Tor Fantasy
Pages: 657
Once, a hero arose to save the world. A young man with a mysterious heritage courageously challenged the darkness that strangled the land. He failed.
For a thousand years since, the world has been a wasteland of ash and mist ruled by the immortal emperor known as the Lord Ruler. Every revolt has failed miserably. Yet somehow, hope survives. Hope that dares to dream of ending the empire and even the Lord Ruler himself. A new kind of uprising is being planned, one built around the ultimate caper, one that depends on the cunning of a brilliant criminal mastermind and the determination of an unlikely heroine, a street urchin who must learn to master Allomancy, the power of a Mistborn.
Inky's Blurb
OH MY GOODNESS! This is sure to give you the biggest *after-shock of AWESOMENESS ever! when you finish a REALLY AMAZING book and then you can't get over it! *hyperventilating ensues*
This book is pure GENIUS. Brandon Sanderson takes a completely generic idea (Bad Overlord Needs to be Crushed) and makes it the latest, greatest, and one of the most unique books I have ever read. WOW. I loved it all. From the characters to the magic to the action to the romance it's all EPIC! ACK. I can't get over how awesome it is. Sorry for my repetitiveness.
Brandon Sanderson writes with great style. He can hold your interest and portray all the scenes of the story with accuracy and slides in just enough description that it's not overwhelming but not to little to get the picture. It was enthralling. Reading from the eyes of his characters, even though they were all in 3rd person was amazing. I felt like I had some sort of connection to each of them.
Vin is The Bomb of the story. (I mean who wouldn't love a girl named VIN?) At first I wasn't sure that she could be done justice seeing as it's a male author, but never fear. She had that hard warrior side and then she has her feminine side. I'm so glad I got to see both parts. Kelsier is the other main protag and he's so funny. He's wacky and incredible and hardcore in one. Loved him!
I don't know what it is but I seem to be reading a lot of books lately about a girl on a team(or in this case, "crew") of guys. Haha. (i.e. Touch of Power) I LOVED this crew. Made up of a mix of characteristics and personalities that I'd have to have memory loss to forget them and their awesome glory. Not forgetting the other side characters as well, even if they were evil.
There is quite a bit of action and magic in this book. It is NOT a dry read. But it isn't a fluff read either. It's not something you just "read over a weekend". Maybe you could though, I don't know. As for the magic.....Zippidee-Doo-Dah! One of the most unique styles of magic ever! I really don't know how I could explain it to you but it deals with metal and it's VERY Cool. 'nuff said.
Okay now that I've spewed my ravings all over this post is there something I didn't like? Actually yes. I felt the attraction-to-love aspect of Vin's romance with he-who-shall-not-be-named was a bit fast. I LOVED the romance but it did seem to go a bit faster than likely. Of course I should take into consideration that part of it wasn't as broadcast.
Over all this is the BOMB, new favorite and I highly suggest reading this book! It will take you on a ride you won't want to get off of (thank goodness for sequels). Powerful, exciting and just all-in-all thrilling! This is the fist book I've read by Brandon and for sure it won't be the last one!
Content: Moderate
(Some language(D***, He**, Bloody, swearing on the Lord Ruler). Because you are reading about evil people there are EVIL things.(Lords are allowed to have(bed) any woman but then they have to kill them the next day so nothing happens ) Violence. Somewhat specific details a few times.)
*when you finish a REALLY AMAZING book and then you can't get over it!

This review is 100% from Inky's Brain.
Use of this review w/out consent is prohibited.
Series: Mistborn #1
Published: 6. 25. 06 by Tor Fantasy
Pages: 657
Once, a hero arose to save the world. A young man with a mysterious heritage courageously challenged the darkness that strangled the land. He failed.
For a thousand years since, the world has been a wasteland of ash and mist ruled by the immortal emperor known as the Lord Ruler. Every revolt has failed miserably. Yet somehow, hope survives. Hope that dares to dream of ending the empire and even the Lord Ruler himself. A new kind of uprising is being planned, one built around the ultimate caper, one that depends on the cunning of a brilliant criminal mastermind and the determination of an unlikely heroine, a street urchin who must learn to master Allomancy, the power of a Mistborn.
Inky's Blurb
OH MY GOODNESS! This is sure to give you the biggest *after-shock of AWESOMENESS ever! when you finish a REALLY AMAZING book and then you can't get over it! *hyperventilating ensues*
This book is pure GENIUS. Brandon Sanderson takes a completely generic idea (Bad Overlord Needs to be Crushed) and makes it the latest, greatest, and one of the most unique books I have ever read. WOW. I loved it all. From the characters to the magic to the action to the romance it's all EPIC! ACK. I can't get over how awesome it is. Sorry for my repetitiveness.
Brandon Sanderson writes with great style. He can hold your interest and portray all the scenes of the story with accuracy and slides in just enough description that it's not overwhelming but not to little to get the picture. It was enthralling. Reading from the eyes of his characters, even though they were all in 3rd person was amazing. I felt like I had some sort of connection to each of them.
Vin is The Bomb of the story. (I mean who wouldn't love a girl named VIN?) At first I wasn't sure that she could be done justice seeing as it's a male author, but never fear. She had that hard warrior side and then she has her feminine side. I'm so glad I got to see both parts. Kelsier is the other main protag and he's so funny. He's wacky and incredible and hardcore in one. Loved him!
I don't know what it is but I seem to be reading a lot of books lately about a girl on a team(or in this case, "crew") of guys. Haha. (i.e. Touch of Power) I LOVED this crew. Made up of a mix of characteristics and personalities that I'd have to have memory loss to forget them and their awesome glory. Not forgetting the other side characters as well, even if they were evil.
There is quite a bit of action and magic in this book. It is NOT a dry read. But it isn't a fluff read either. It's not something you just "read over a weekend". Maybe you could though, I don't know. As for the magic.....Zippidee-Doo-Dah! One of the most unique styles of magic ever! I really don't know how I could explain it to you but it deals with metal and it's VERY Cool. 'nuff said.
Okay now that I've spewed my ravings all over this post is there something I didn't like? Actually yes. I felt the attraction-to-love aspect of Vin's romance with he-who-shall-not-be-named was a bit fast. I LOVED the romance but it did seem to go a bit faster than likely. Of course I should take into consideration that part of it wasn't as broadcast.
Over all this is the BOMB, new favorite and I highly suggest reading this book! It will take you on a ride you won't want to get off of (thank goodness for sequels). Powerful, exciting and just all-in-all thrilling! This is the fist book I've read by Brandon and for sure it won't be the last one!
Content: Moderate
(Some language(D***, He**, Bloody, swearing on the Lord Ruler). Because you are reading about evil people there are EVIL things.(Lords are allowed to have(bed) any woman but then they have to kill them the next day so nothing happens ) Violence. Somewhat specific details a few times.)
*when you finish a REALLY AMAZING book and then you can't get over it!
This review is 100% from Inky's Brain.
Use of this review w/out consent is prohibited.
Thursday, May 31, 2012
Author: Lisa T. Bergren
Series: Grand Tour #1
Published: June 1st by David C. Cook
Pages: 416
Rating: 5/5stars
When Cora Kensington learns she is the illegitimate daughter of a copper king, her life changes forever. Even as she explores Europe with her new family, she discovers that the most valuable journey is within. The first book in the Grand Tour series takes you from the farms of Montana through England and France on an adventure of forgiveness, spiritual awakening, and self-discovery.
In One Word: GLAMOROUS!
Inky's Blurb: Oh. Wow. It's been so amazing to read this book. I was so excited to get this on NetGalley as a pre-ready. But for all you eager readers of this book don't worry, it's comes out this weekend!
I love anything by Lisa T. Bergren. She's got this style of writing that just draws you into the story. she can shape characters almost to perfection. They are lovable, and some are VERY crush worthy. This was that case with Glamorous Illusions as well. Cora was a lovely and independent MC and I appreciated the development in her background.
One of the very interesting things I found in this book was the way the narration took place. You read Cora's POV in 1st person of course since she is the sole character. But there are some scenes where you get a different POV told in 3rd person. I've heard of this happening in some books but it's still very interesting to read.
I love the side cast of characters. The glamorous families and rich lords, to the low servants. I thought there was some great diversity among them. I love the to potential love interests. Pierre is the light hearted flirtatious Frenchmen while Will is the strong, handsome Tour Guide. I really can't wait to see what will happen with Cora and these two in the next book.
It was a very enjoyable story with a rich historical background woven in! I'm so ready for the second book in the Grand Tour Series to see how it continues. Very much in love with Cora's story right now. I highly approve of this latest masterpiece by Lisa T. Bergren.
Content: Clean
A copy was received from publisher for an honest review.
Have you read any of Lisa's books? What did you think? I'd love to hear!

This review is 10% from Inky's brain.
Use of this review w/out consent is prohibited.
Series: Grand Tour #1
Published: June 1st by David C. Cook
Pages: 416
Rating: 5/5stars
When Cora Kensington learns she is the illegitimate daughter of a copper king, her life changes forever. Even as she explores Europe with her new family, she discovers that the most valuable journey is within. The first book in the Grand Tour series takes you from the farms of Montana through England and France on an adventure of forgiveness, spiritual awakening, and self-discovery.
In One Word: GLAMOROUS!
Inky's Blurb: Oh. Wow. It's been so amazing to read this book. I was so excited to get this on NetGalley as a pre-ready. But for all you eager readers of this book don't worry, it's comes out this weekend!
I love anything by Lisa T. Bergren. She's got this style of writing that just draws you into the story. she can shape characters almost to perfection. They are lovable, and some are VERY crush worthy. This was that case with Glamorous Illusions as well. Cora was a lovely and independent MC and I appreciated the development in her background.
One of the very interesting things I found in this book was the way the narration took place. You read Cora's POV in 1st person of course since she is the sole character. But there are some scenes where you get a different POV told in 3rd person. I've heard of this happening in some books but it's still very interesting to read.
I love the side cast of characters. The glamorous families and rich lords, to the low servants. I thought there was some great diversity among them. I love the to potential love interests. Pierre is the light hearted flirtatious Frenchmen while Will is the strong, handsome Tour Guide. I really can't wait to see what will happen with Cora and these two in the next book.
It was a very enjoyable story with a rich historical background woven in! I'm so ready for the second book in the Grand Tour Series to see how it continues. Very much in love with Cora's story right now. I highly approve of this latest masterpiece by Lisa T. Bergren.
Content: Clean
A copy was received from publisher for an honest review.
Have you read any of Lisa's books? What did you think? I'd love to hear!
This review is 10% from Inky's brain.
Use of this review w/out consent is prohibited.
Monday, April 30, 2012
Author: Francine Rivers
Series: Mark Of The Lion #1
Published: 2. 18. 98 by Tyndale House Publishers
Pages: 520
Rating: 5/5 Stars
Summary: Torn by her love for a handsome aristocrat, a young slave girl clings to her faith in the living God for deliverance from the forces of decadent Rome.
Note: This is a work of Christian Fiction.
My Thoughts: Incredible. I loved this book. It was moving, and a very well done work of historical fiction.
First off I want to mention how awesome the historical setting was. Francine has painted one of the most realistic setting I've ever read. It just makes me wonder and appreciate all the research that went into this book! This was no light matter at all. With the time period this book covers, the setting is decadent Rome and that wasn't always very pretty. The image I picked up was a very rowdy immoral society. They were wild and not very refined. It for sure wasn't the golden age. I think Francine defines this with incredible accuracy and skill. She doesn't just glance over it all and mention it. We get the juicy details. We see the different perspectives of the characters in all aspects of this society. We are very aware of it and the things that the characters choose.
However, for those who are worried about content, because this book was not light in content. Many violent or sexual things happen. But I will say that I didn't find it bugged me as much, because I found it to be part of the story and the society that was being shown. True, it was a bit much in some parts but for the most part it didn't hit me as it normally would.
The character development was fabulous. I loved getting the POVs from all the different aspects of the culture. Those completely immersed in the hard, wild aspects of the world at the time, characters like Decimus who was a worried parent beginning to feel out of his element as the Rome he knew is changing, and those like Hadassah, with the more Christian view. I loved how each fit into their own category and were so different. It was all so believable. I loved it!
The storyline itself was very intriguing and wove into one bright quilt that will keep you on your seats, and eagerly anticipating the next installment. It was full of new plot twists and felt very well thought out and planned. The ending was so unexpected and I was on the edge that I can't wait to get my hands on the next book! Loved it!
Favorite Quote: "Unless you have something worth dying for, Atretes, you have nothing worth living for."
Content: Heavy
Language -((characters swear on their Roman gods))
Sexual - ((Reference to Homosexual people in the society. Two homosexual males seen kissing. A girl kisses a girl. A girl moves in with a male homosexual so that she can have the freedom she wants to be with her lover. A girl has an abortion. A girl has "love" a few times to a man she isn't married to. Once, during marriage a girl gives herself to a man for an hour to help settle problems. People known to have had affairs with a few members of the opposite sex. Some innuendo or references to people speaking that way. Girl gets pregnant from her lover when she isn't married. Gladiators show off their bodies to the crowd before the games. Nude statues and art seen in town, villas and in bedrooms. Man wants a girl but she is not willing to be his "lover" and being the master, almost forces her to.))
Violence/Other - ((Gladiator games are very gory and some references to the bloody fighting. Description of blood and the crowd loving the games. Woman poisons her husband to death because she is sick of him. Abusive husband. Women are slapped a few times. People drink wine and get drunk. Some characters lead others to do wrong things under their influence))
A fabulous read that I really enjoyed. This book is made of Awesome-Sauce and is highly recommended for lovers of Historical Fiction.

This review is 100% from Inky's brain, and use of this review without consent is prohibited.
Series: Mark Of The Lion #1
Published: 2. 18. 98 by Tyndale House Publishers
Pages: 520
Rating: 5/5 Stars
Summary: Torn by her love for a handsome aristocrat, a young slave girl clings to her faith in the living God for deliverance from the forces of decadent Rome.
Note: This is a work of Christian Fiction.
My Thoughts: Incredible. I loved this book. It was moving, and a very well done work of historical fiction.
First off I want to mention how awesome the historical setting was. Francine has painted one of the most realistic setting I've ever read. It just makes me wonder and appreciate all the research that went into this book! This was no light matter at all. With the time period this book covers, the setting is decadent Rome and that wasn't always very pretty. The image I picked up was a very rowdy immoral society. They were wild and not very refined. It for sure wasn't the golden age. I think Francine defines this with incredible accuracy and skill. She doesn't just glance over it all and mention it. We get the juicy details. We see the different perspectives of the characters in all aspects of this society. We are very aware of it and the things that the characters choose.
However, for those who are worried about content, because this book was not light in content. Many violent or sexual things happen. But I will say that I didn't find it bugged me as much, because I found it to be part of the story and the society that was being shown. True, it was a bit much in some parts but for the most part it didn't hit me as it normally would.
The character development was fabulous. I loved getting the POVs from all the different aspects of the culture. Those completely immersed in the hard, wild aspects of the world at the time, characters like Decimus who was a worried parent beginning to feel out of his element as the Rome he knew is changing, and those like Hadassah, with the more Christian view. I loved how each fit into their own category and were so different. It was all so believable. I loved it!
The storyline itself was very intriguing and wove into one bright quilt that will keep you on your seats, and eagerly anticipating the next installment. It was full of new plot twists and felt very well thought out and planned. The ending was so unexpected and I was on the edge that I can't wait to get my hands on the next book! Loved it!
Favorite Quote: "Unless you have something worth dying for, Atretes, you have nothing worth living for."
Content: Heavy
Language -((characters swear on their Roman gods))
Sexual - ((Reference to Homosexual people in the society. Two homosexual males seen kissing. A girl kisses a girl. A girl moves in with a male homosexual so that she can have the freedom she wants to be with her lover. A girl has an abortion. A girl has "love" a few times to a man she isn't married to. Once, during marriage a girl gives herself to a man for an hour to help settle problems. People known to have had affairs with a few members of the opposite sex. Some innuendo or references to people speaking that way. Girl gets pregnant from her lover when she isn't married. Gladiators show off their bodies to the crowd before the games. Nude statues and art seen in town, villas and in bedrooms. Man wants a girl but she is not willing to be his "lover" and being the master, almost forces her to.))
Violence/Other - ((Gladiator games are very gory and some references to the bloody fighting. Description of blood and the crowd loving the games. Woman poisons her husband to death because she is sick of him. Abusive husband. Women are slapped a few times. People drink wine and get drunk. Some characters lead others to do wrong things under their influence))
A fabulous read that I really enjoyed. This book is made of Awesome-Sauce and is highly recommended for lovers of Historical Fiction.
This review is 100% from Inky's brain, and use of this review without consent is prohibited.
Thursday, April 12, 2012
Being Sixteen by Ally Condie
Published: 2.3.10
Publisher: Deseret Book Compnay
Pages: 240
Rating: 5 Stars
Summary: Juliet Kendall has been looking forward to her sixteenth birthday for what feels like forever. At first, it seems like being sixteen will be as perfect as she dreamed---she has great friends, a cute almost-boyfriend, a spot on the varsity girls' basketball team, and even a car of her own. But, as the year goes on, she discovers that her sister Carly is hiding a secret, and realizes that, in fact, being sixteen may be her hardest year yet.
Published: 2.3.10
Publisher: Deseret Book Compnay
Pages: 240
Rating: 5 Stars
Summary: Juliet Kendall has been looking forward to her sixteenth birthday for what feels like forever. At first, it seems like being sixteen will be as perfect as she dreamed---she has great friends, a cute almost-boyfriend, a spot on the varsity girls' basketball team, and even a car of her own. But, as the year goes on, she discovers that her sister Carly is hiding a secret, and realizes that, in fact, being sixteen may be her hardest year yet.
The Book in 3 Words: Beautiful, Thoughtful, Emotional
My Thoughts: This book was so amazing. I love Ally's Matched trilogy and so I was super excited to read this book, which is a contemporary with a bit of a harder and more emotional storyline. The story is wonderful, uplifting and full of great messages. The story of Juliet and her family just pulls you right in. I was hooked from literally the first page. The topic it covers is harder, dealing with what its like when a family member suffers from a disorder, in this case, bulimia.
Juliet never would have guess that her sister was suffering from such a thing, until she started noticing things. It's a hard adjustment for her to realize that her sister is harboring this secret. Especially when it brings changes to her life that she never imagined. She starts to question what we know. The emotional drama of her family and the struggles Juliet has were hard but Ally covered it so well. Juliet is seeking for peace, redemption and help for her sister and it's just so beautiful and there were moments I cried. I love these cry books.
The connection of the sisters was just gorgeous. To see them trying to pull through this, watching them from the beginning, growing distant and strained, as well as their process on the road to healing was incredible. I've never had to go through something like this, but for me I know that reading about these things are just, eye opening. That's one reason why I love these hard, but character changing books. Highly recommended.
Content: Clean Read
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