Mini Reviews 4: Bring on the Minis!

Another set of minis today! I'm becoming really fond of this way of reviewing - it's so much shorter and easier.  Here's hoping I can say it in fewer words!The Secret Life of Ms. Finkleman by Ben H. WintersPublisher: HarperCollinsPublication date: September 2010Pages: 256Source: Review copy provided by publisherFor: ReviewWhen Bethesda Fielding decides to do her secret project on the mysterious life of boring music teacher Ms. Finkleman, she little expects to uncover what she does.  A former punk-rocker and famous mystery woman, their unassuming teacher is plunged back into the spotlight.  But the discovery is not exactly...

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Posted in adult , dystopian , e-book , Fantasy , middle grade , mini reviews , paranormal , realistic fiction , review copy , Young Adult

Book Review: Vanish by Sophie Jordan

Vanish: A Firelight Novel by Sophie Jordan Publisher: HarperCollinsPublication date: September 2011Pages: 304Source: e-book from NetGalleyFor: ReviewSeries: Firelight series, Book 2*spoilers for the first book quite likely*When Jacinda and her sister and mom return to the pride, she knows things won't be the same.  But it is worse than she imagined.  Her sister is no longer at home with her and her mother is unable to bear the pride's contempt.  Cassian and his cousin Corbin are both paying too much attention to her.  And most of all, Jacinda misses Will.   Will they ever see one another again? ...

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Posted in 2 stars , e-book , firelight , paranormal , review copy , Young Adult

Listless Monday, Music Books Edition

Listless Monday was inspired by both Amanda at A Bookshelf Monstrosity's feature Books by Theme and Court at Once Upon a Bookshelf's Listed feature.  Be sure to check out their lists!Listless Monday and Name That Book have kind of been on break for a while.  Not sure when I'll get back to Name That Book, but I did manage to get a new Listless Monday together finally.  Today's list is one that I'm hoping you will have suggestions for, since I don't know many books with a musical element. But, I know lots of people will!  Doesn't have to be a specific type of music or anything, just some aspect...

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Posted in listless monday , lists , not a review

I Actually NEED It 12

I Actually NEED It is an extremely irregular feature where I express my desire, or rather need, for certain books that haven't come out or aren't available at my library yet.  To learn about the reason behind the name, check out my inaugural I Actually NEED It post.It's about time for a new year's post about books I NEED.  Here they are, taunting me with their publication dates: The Agency 3: The Traitor in the Tunnel by Y.S. LeeThe Agency series is one of the few straight-up mystery series I've been able to read and enjoy.  So excited for more Mary adventures!  Coming February 2012. Partials by Dan WellsThis...

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Posted in i actually need it , lists , not a review

Book Review: He's So Not Worth It by Kieran Scott

He's So Not Worth It by Kieran ScottPublisher: Simon & SchusterPublication date: June 2011Pages: 368Source: e-copy of ARC provided by GalleyGrabFor: ReviewSeries: He's So/She's So, Book 2Ally's life has certainly gotten a lot more complicated.  After the disaster at Shannen's party where she realized her friends really don't want her, she retreats into a different life.  In order to avoid her almost-boyfriend, Jake, she will do almost anything - including possibly spending the summer on Long Island where all of her former friends will be.  Can things get any more complicated?  Of course they can.Things I Liked: I'm kind...

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Posted in 3 stars , e-book , he's so/she's so , realistic fiction , review copy , Young Adult

Top Ten Tuesday: More Please

  It's time for another Top Ten Tuesday hosted by The Broke and the Bookish.  This week, the prompt is what authors you want more from.  Essentially, if it's not asking too much, could you please squeeze out another book for me?Markus ZusakSeems like I've been waiting forever for something more.  Mind you, I haven't read all of his books, so I need to get that done, but I think there is (finally) another book coming, Bridge of Clay.  Crossing my fingers!Jane AustenReally, I don't think six complete novels are enough from one of my all-time favorites.  I see no problem with a zombie Jane, since...

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Posted in lists , not a review , top ten tuesday

Book Review: Uncommon Criminals by Ally Carter

Uncommon Criminals by Ally CarterPublisher: HyperionPublication date: June 2011Pages: 304Source: LibraryFor: FunSeries: Heist Society, Book 2Kat's reputation, since the last major break-in she planned, has preceded her everywhere.  But, when she's asked to steal the Cleopatra Emerald - steal it and return it to its rightful owners - she's just a little bit nervous.  Not only is it hard to get a public glimpse of the emerald, it is also cursed.  Can she and her crew manage to get their hands on this slippery jewel or will the game finally be up for Kat?Things I Liked: Ally Carter has the ability to make a smart, fun, action-movie-like...

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Posted in 4 stars , heist society , realistic fiction , Young Adult