Cover Crazy #13

Cover Crazy was created by The Bookworms. It's a great way to share a book cover that took your breath away!

To me, there is NOTHING better than a cover of a book. One of my favourite places, in the world, is a book store. I can walk around them for hours just looking at covers of books. I am well aware of the saying "You can't judge a book by its cover", I just don't believe it!

When I find a book cover that I love, I will always read the back and then make my purchasing decision, but... WOW... there is just something amazing about a gorgeous cover! So, moving forward, I am going to share those covers that just made me want to escape and read a book instantly!

Without further adieu, here is the cover I am crazy about this week:

Fat Girls and Fairy Cakes by Sue Watson

What this cover says to me:

Ummmm... YUMMY!

I look at this front of this book and I see everything that I like. The colours are well thought out and so appealing to the eyes. The cupcakes... can't ever go wrong there and the jewels - BLING! Love it!

If I were to dissect the book based on the cover, I would assume a chick-lit novel about a career woman who loved all things delicious... really, a girl after my own heart. What woman doesn't like diamonds on her fingers and cupcakes in her tummy.

This book seems like the perfect read for a nice fall night curled up on the couch with a cuppa and some sort of yummy treat... preferably guilt-free (of course).

What cover took your breath away this week?

Review: The Other Woman

The Other Woman by Jane Green

Format: Paperback
Pages: 442
Published: July 27, 2010
Publisher: Penguin UK
Genre: Chick-lit, Fiction

My Rating: 4/5

Summary (from chapters.ca):

Ellie and Dan are living proof that opposites attract.
He always follows instructions and she throws the manual away.
He loves sports whereas Ellie's allergic to any form of exercise.
Ellie doesn't have a mother. And Dan does - a mother who wants to take over ...
EVERYTHING.

At first Ellie is thrilled to have Linda as her 'adopted' mother and to be a part of the close, loving Cooper family. But when she and Dan decide to get married and wedding plans progress, she starts to wonder: is it normal for Linda and Dan to speak on the phone twice a day? How on earth do they come to be having a reception with Chilean bloody seabass and humongous bloody white ribbons tied everywhere when all she wanted was a quiet registry office?

In fact, is she marrying Dan ... OR HIS MOTHER?

Review:

Hilarious... simply hilarious! What a treat... to read a book that seems so real, so down-to-earth, and yet... so utterly funny that you will laugh out loud.

Being relatively new to Jane Green's writing, I am finding myself wanting to pick up every single one of her books. The Other Woman was such a fantastic read that I really didn't want to put it down.

Ellie and Dan really do seem to have the perfect relationship until you add 'Mom' into the equation. The style and expertise that Jane Green used when writing this novel makes me wonder if she, in fact, has a 'Monster-in-law' instead of a 'Mother-in-law'.

This novel is a definite must-read for anyone who is married and has an active mother-in-law in their lives... she doesn't have to be involved to quite the extent that Dan's is, but if she's around, you will relate to this book and you will LOVE it!

Overall, a funny, uplifting and super enjoyable read!!

In My Mailbox #15

In My Mailbox was created by Kristi over at The Story Siren. The general idea is to share the books that you have purchased, that you have borrowed, or that you have found.

I love mail... have I mentioned that before? This week, my mailbox was nicely used and my book shelf slightly packed. I am now running out of room on my new shelf and quietly seeking a second... just need to locate a spot within the house for it to be displayed. Still debating whether my husband will notice if the spare bed is moved in favour of my collection... likely not, right?!?!

Without further adieu, here are the items that added to already stuffed bookshelf in this weeks edition of 'In My Mailbox':

Review copies from Random House Canada:













Courtesy of a trip to the secondhand store - It's Worth Repeating:













What was in your mailbox this week?

Giveaway: The Willows: Haven

It's a Turning the Pages first and I invite you to get in on the action while the action's hot!!

As a perk of the book tour for The Willows: Haven by Hope Collier, I have been gifted one additional copy of the book and am looking for a lucky winner! So, if you have a e-reader and would love to be part of this amazing adventure, please leave a comment on this post and one lucky winner will be chosen at random. This winner will be notified by email on Friday, September 30th!


When tragedy strikes, seventeen year-old Ashton Blake sets out on a cross-country road trip, leaving the comforts of Malibu for the mountains of Kentucky. Along the way, she encounters Gabe Willoughby—the mysterious drifter with eyes like the sea and a knowing smile. Getting to know Gabe raises questions about her past. But no secret can be buried forever, and Ashton soon finders herself in a world where water is air and myth becomes reality.

Just as Ashton comes to accept her newfound heritage, she’s summoned to fulfill a treaty laid down centuries before — a treaty that will divide her love and test her loyalty. In the end, her future isn’t her biggest concern, her humanity is. To run may mean war, but is she strong enough to stay?


Don't wait... the adventure begins TODAY!

Review: The Willows: Haven

The Willows: Haven is the first 'Book Blog Tour' that I have participated in and WOW, what a tour to be involved with!

Today, being my date on the tour, I was asked to read and review the book. So without further adieu, here are my thoughts!



The Willows: Haven by Hope Collier

Pages: 233
Format: eBook, PDF, ARC
Published: Fall 2011 (TBA)
Publisher: Soul Fire Press
Genre: Fiction, Young Adult, Fantasy

My Rating: 5/5

Summary (from goodreads.com):

When tragedy strikes, seventeen year-old Ashton Blake sets out on a cross-country road trip, leaving the comforts of Malibu for the mountains of Kentucky. Along the way, she encounters Gabe Willoughby — the mysterious drifter with eyes like the sea and a knowing smile. Getting to know Gabe raises questions about her past. But no secret can be buried forever, and Ashton soon find herself in a world where water is air and myth becomes reality.

Just as Ashton comes to accept her newfound heritage, she’s summoned to fulfill a treaty laid down centuries before — a treaty that will divide her love and test her loyalty. In the end, her future isn’t her biggest concern, her humanity is. To run may mean war, but is she strong enough to stay?

Review:

**NOTE: A copy of this novel was provided by the author. However, no compensations were made and this review reflects my honest thoughts and feelings**

I am sad that I even have to write this review for the sole purpose that it means the book is done. Never did I want a story to continue more than I did this one.

From the very first word I was drawn into this story. The characters were so well formed that I felt I had known them forever. The mystery that surrounds Ashton's life, both before the story begins and as it is taking place, is so intriguing that you can't help but continue reading. As each new person makes him or her way into the story, it just gets better and better.

Not since Edward, in Twilight, have I felt more emotionally connected to a character than I did to Gabe. It became very clear that there was something different about Gabe, he wasn't 'normal' but instead, very special... in a good way. As Ashton and Gabe became closer and thoughts of the 'new life' became clearer, it was obvious that this was not just another love story - it was something much more.

Hope Collier used imagery that made everyday places sound enchanting; 'The Valley', like a dream. With such lush greenery, crystal clear waters, and a rich history, being lost in The Willows: Haven was more like a dream. I craved reading this book more than I care to admit.

The only downfall to this book, as far as I can see, is that I have to wait for the next one to come out... sigh.

Overall, a phenomenal book. Perfect in every sense and one that I am SO incredibly honoured to review for this Book Blog Tour. Now, Hope... GET WRITING!!

Review: The Night Circus

The Night Circus by Erin Morgenstern

Format: Hardcover, ARC
Pages: 387
Published: Sept 13, 2011
Publisher: Doubleday Canada, Random House Canada
Genre: Fiction, Mystery, Fantasy

My Rating: 4.5/5

Summary (from chapters.ca):

The circus arrives at night, without warning. No announcements precede it. It is simply there, when yesterday it was not. Within nocturnal black and white striped tents awaits a unique experience, a feast for the senses, where one can get lost in a maze of clouds, meander through a lush garden made of ice, stand awestruck as a tattooed contortionist folds herself into a small glass box, and gaze in wonderment at an illusionist performing impossible feats of magic.

Welcome to Le Cirque des Rêves. Beyond the smoke and mirrors, however, a fierce competition is underway - a contest between two young magicians, Celia and Marco, who have been trained since childhood to compete in "a game," in which each must use their powers of illusion to best the other. Unbeknownst to them, this game is a duel to the death, and the circus is but the stage for a remarkable battle of imagination and will.

Review:

**NOTE: A copy of this novel was provided by the publisher, Random House Canada, for review purposes. However, no compensation was made and the review reflects my honest thoughts and feelings**

WOW, once in a while, a novel is written that takes you to another place; a place that can only be made in the most creative of imaginations. The Night Circus is one of those places.

As a debut novel, I am blown away. This novel involved a story that was so complex and so creative that is has lived up to every single second of the hype that surrounds it. I am in awe of Erin Morgenstern's talents and can definitely imagine this on the big screen!

How fun would it be to visit a circus at night? Being someone that has never been to a circus (in the daytime) or even really had the desire to go, I now long for the days when the circus showed up in the empty fields on the outskirts of town and the only way you would know about it was the posters on light posts, or by word of mouth; a simpler time when the 'magic' of the circus was something that you believed in and not tried to dissect.

While I found it hard, in the beginning, to keep track of the timeline, as soon as I realized its importance, it wasn't even a chore to do so. Seeing each of the characters develop and not really knowing who any of them were was part of the fun of the novel... you just never knew what was coming next.

Overall, The Night Circus was an adventure that leaves you wanting more. It will have you on the edge of your seat and make you dream of a simpler, more 'magical' time.

Cover Crazy #12

Cover Crazy was created by The Bookworms. It's a great way to share a book cover that took your breath away!

To me, there is NOTHING better than a cover of a book. One of my favourite places, in the world, is a book store. I can walk around them for hours just looking at covers of books. I am well aware of the saying "You can't judge a book by its cover", I just don't believe it!

When I find a book cover that I love, I will always read the back and then make my purchasing decision, but... WOW... there is just something amazing about a gorgeous cover! So, moving forward, I am going to share those covers that just made me want to escape and read a book instantly!

Without further adieu, here is the cover I am crazy about this week:

Something From Tiffany's by Melissa Hill

What I love about this cover:

I did something a little interesting this week. I used the new 'Recommendation' feature on Goodreads to browse covers and WOW, am I ever glad that I did. I was instantly drawn in by this one.

Something from Tiffany's makes me think of that glorious blue box with a delicate white ribbon... and some serious bling inside! Of course, that leads me to assume that this is a romantic novel... or at least one with romantic undertones.

I love the simplicity of the cover... the use of colour to immediately let you know which Tiffany's the author is referring to and then letting the mind wander as to what, exactly, that 'something' could be.

Lovers of BLING beware... this novel will look delicious on your bookshelf!

What cover took your breath away this week?

In My Mailbox #14

In My Mailbox was created by Kristi over at The Story Siren. The general idea is to share the books that you have purchased, that you have borrowed, or that you have found.

Whoever said that the library didn't rock... lied! This week, on our visit to the local library, I was able to check out some of the books that they had for sale. Our library sells gently used books that have either been brought in by patrons or have been retired from their collection. The monies earned through these sales is used to purchase new books so really, a win-win!!

So, without further adieu, here is this week's edition of 'In My Mailbox':

From my local library (at a cost of $0.50 per book):












Seems as though I have another edition to Holiday Reads 2011 (even though I so carefully chose my books already... you just never know where that are going to pop up!!)

What was in your mailbox this week?

Review: Idol

Idol by Carrie Duffy

Format: Trade paperback, ARC
Pages: 390
Published: October 26, 2011
Publisher: Harpercollins UK
Genre: Fiction, Chick-lit

My Rating: 4/5

Summary (from chapters.ca):

Meet Jenna Jonsson and Sadie Laine: two gorgeous, glamorous twenty-somethings fighting to make it to the top of their chosen professions.

Beautiful and talented, Jenna is an international pop star, determined to take her career to the next level. And when a chance meeting leads to an opportunity for Jenna to work with world-famous rock band Phoenix, Jenna is quick to agree - although her decision is somewhat influenced by Nick Taylor, the drummer with Phoenix and the most gorgeous man Jenna has ever met...

Meanwhile, Sadie is a struggling dancer and a childhood rival of Jenna's. Ambitious and passionate, Sadie is determined to fulfil her dreams. And a move to Las Vegas yields an unmissable career opportunity and a chance at true love.

Jenna and Sadie's lives are about to collide but will sparks fly? Or will they be able to put the past behind them?

Review:

**NOTE: A copy of this novel was provided by the author. However, no compensations were made and this review reflects my honest thoughts and feelings**

How cool would it be if you were a pop-star on the rise and you got to meet your idol? I think it would be amazing.

Jenna's character has all the swagger of a Britney Spears and all the level-headedness of a Christina Aguilera and I, for one, am in awe. To be so young, have gone through all the life changing events that she has and still have a decent head on her shoulders?!?! Bravo.

Carrie Duffy was able to capture the pureness of each characters without making them too over-the-top. Something that would have been very easy to do given the lifestyle she was writing about - Hollywood royalty. By keeping everyone down-to-earth, it made it very relatable and also very unpredictable.

The whole premise of the novel was wonderful. I enjoyed the back and forth between the characters and how, even though they fought against it, their lives were tangled so deeply that they were bound to be together.

Overall, this book is a debut novel from an up-and-coming star... one to keep an eye on!!

PS. With a cover that is so awesomely pink and sparkly... it will be winning over fans of chick-lit for YEARS to come!! :)

Coming Soon: Kristin Hannah

It doesn't take much to draw me in to a novel but when you add in a Christmas back-drop and my favourite author, voila... it becomes a MUST-read!

Being an absolute nut for the holiday season, I always try to fit in as many books about the season as possible so Comfort and Joy will be on my list for this year!!

Due Out: November 1, 2011

Summary (from chapters.ca):

Joy Candellaro once loved Christmas more than any other time of the year. Now, as the holiday approaches, she is at a crossroads in her life; recently divorced and alone, she can't summon the old enthusiasm for celebrating. So without telling anyone, she buys a ticket and boards a plane bound for the beautiful Pacific Northwest. When an unexpected detour takes her deep into the woods of the Olympic rainforest, Joy makes a bold decision to leave her ordinary life behind-to just walk away-and thus begins an adventure unlike any she could have imagined.

In the small town of Rain Valley, six-year-old Bobby O'Shea is facing his first Christmas without a mother. Unable to handle the loss, Bobby has closed himself off from the world, talking only to his invisible best friend. His father Daniel is beside himself, desperate to help his son cope. Yet when the little boy meets Joy, these two unlikely souls form a deep and powerful bond. In helping Bobby and Daniel heal, Joy finds herself again.

But not everything is as it seems in quiet Rain Valley, and in an instant, Joy's world is ripped apart, and her heart is broken. On a magical Christmas Eve, a night of impossible dreams and unexpected chances, Joy must find the courage to believe in a love-and a family-that can't possibly exist, and go in search of what she wants . . . and the new life only she can find.


While I believe that this is a re-release, as the Trade version is available online, I will be eagerly awaiting this edition as I just LOVE the cover! Thank you, Kristin Hannah, for making my holiday season just a little bit brighter!!

Holiday Reads 2011

This year, I have decided to do a Holiday Reads feature. Being a big fan of Christmas novels, whether it be romance, traditional or even a holiday mystery, I always search out a few good ones to read as Christmas approaches.



How 'Holiday Reads 2011' works:

1. On Sunday, each week in December, I will be posting about two new novels that have a Christmas theme.

2. During the following week, I will be posting my reviews on each book (all books have been ordered and will be read have been read previously).

3. On Christmas Day (the fourth Sunday in December), I will be choosing which of the six novels was my favourite and choose it as the ultimate Holiday Read for 2011.

If you are interested in joining me in this challenge, please let me know by commenting on this post.

Mommy Reading: Step Into Reading

As any mom knows, reading is essential to the growth of your child. It had been a great joy to me knowing that my son loves to read books and I am always looking for ways to increase that love. Lately, I have found some amazing books, by Random House, that allow him to learn at his pace as well as allowing us to have bedtime stories that suit his attention span. These books are all part of the series called 'Step Into Reading'.


Step Into Reading has five 'steps' of books in all sorts of genres that appeal to your own childs interests and learning set.


Step 1 ~ Ready to Read (preschool - kindergarten):



The books in Step 1 are very basic and include big type and easy words, rhyme and rhythm, and picture clues. These books are geared towards children who know the alphabet and are eager to start reading.


Step 2 ~ Reading with Help (Preschool - Grade 1):



The books in Step 2 begin to challenge readers with basic vocabulary, short sentences and simple stories. These are for children with the ability to recognize familiar words and sound out new words with help.


Step 3 ~ Reading On Your Own (Grades 1 - 3):



Step 3 books have longer sentences, engaging characters and easy-to-follow plots. These books are for children that are reading to begin reading on their own.


Step 4 ~ Reading Paragraphs (Grades 2 - 3):



The books that are found in Step 4 begin to become more complex with more challenging vocabulary, short paragraphs and exciting stories. These are geared for newly independant readers who have the ability to read simple sentences without help.


Step 5 ~ Ready for Chapters (Grades 2 - 4):



The final step in the Step Into Reading program is Step 5. Here the books include chapters, long paragraphs and full colour art. These are for readers that are ready to take the 'plunge' into chapter books but still enjoy colourful pictures.


From one mother to another... I highly recommend these books to everyone. We have a steady stream of them, in levels 1 and 2, from our local library and my son loves to read them at bedtime. My favourite part has got to be the wonderful, colourful pictures. Through these, my son has started to use his imagination to the fullest and makes up his own stories... the start of a wonderful partnership!