Showing posts with label Disney Hyperion. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Disney Hyperion. Show all posts

Wednesday, March 27, 2019

Aladdin: Far From Agrabah by Aisha Saeed

Title: Aladdin: Far From Agrabah
Author: Aisha Saeed
Publisher: Disney Press
Publication date: April 2, 2019
Pages: 336
Source/format: Hardcover from Penguin Random House

Rating: ☆☆☆

Synopsis (from goodreads.com):

This stunning original novel will tell an all-new story set in the world of the new film, featuring Aladdin and Jasmine. A magic carpet ride full of adventure, suspense, and wonder written by New York Times Bestselling author Aisha Saeed, this story will be a must-read for any Aladdin fans who find themselves drawn into and enchanted by the magical world of Agrabah and beyond.

M Y  T H O U G H TS

Aladdin: Far From Agrabah is perfect for fans Disney's Aladdin. Aisha Saeed creatively reinvents the Disney classic we grew to love as well as retelling the original story of "Aladdin and the Magic Lamp" from The Book of One Thousand and One Nights. In Saeed's retelling of Aladdin, Saeed gives insight and a better understanding of the song "A Whole New World" beyond the magic carpet ride. There is more to Aladdin besides the wonderful music Disney can provide was with.

The novel starts with Jasmine scanning the hall during the Harvest Festival. She had just met Aladdin a few days prior. Aladdin: Far From Agrabah is an excellent retelling that not only touches upon some of the elements people love about Disney's Aladdin, but it creates a new parallel world where readers can explore the true spirit of how Aladdin and Jasmine fall for each other. Saeed's version of Aladdin captures the heart and readers learn more about the characters' backstories and personalities. Exploring Ababwa and seeing Genie's capabilities bring a smile to my face.

Aladdin is able to dazzle and wow Jasmine when he takes her to Ababwa at her insisting. Fictionalized Ababwa is an extension of Aladdin. It contains his memories of people and a history of himself. Yet, it also includes things that Jasmine would appreciate. Aladdin and Jasmine begin to bond over the memories of their lost parents. Aladdin invites Jasmine to help with an open advisory council meeting where the common people will ask Aladdin questions and for advice. Aladdin lets Jasmine be part of the meeting and treats her like an equal to listen and to dole out advice. The cartography shop is the icing on the cake for Jasmine. Aladdin is able to share desserts with Jasmine at a version of his favorite bakery. An embodiment of a younger Aladdin appears which Jasmine sympathizes with but Aladdin cannot let her know that it is him.

The curveball with the real so-called villain in the made-up Ababwa is perfect. It shows that even in an ideal world, it cannot exist without some flaws. Somehow a mysterious person steals the magical carpet which puts Aladdin in a difficult situation. I am sorry for readers who are hoping that Jafar pops up in this retelling because he is not the villain in this storyline.

The novel is told in dual POVs. Aisha Saeed delivers the thoughts, desires and emotions of both Aladdin and Jasmine. However, Aladdin knows that he cannot give everything Jasmine wants because his Ababwa is a kingdom of lies. This is a novel spanning a very short period of time. Aladdin: Far From Agrabah covers the time span when Prince Ali visits Princess Jasmine at the palace of Agrabah until the next day after the magic carpet ride. I highly recommend this novel for anyone who loves Aladdin. Enjoy the magical ride!

Tuesday, February 7, 2017

Starfall Launch Blitz & Giveaway

I am so excited for Starfall! This is the second installment to the Starflight duology! If you want to see my thoughts about Starflight, check out my review here. Don't forget to check out the giveaway at the bottom of the post.


Title: Starfall
Author: Melissa Landers
Publisher: Disney-Hyperion
Publication date: February 7, 2017
Pages: 368


Synopsis (from Goodreads.com)

When Princess Cassia Rose fled her home world of Eturia to escape an arranged marriage, she had no idea her sudden departure would spark a war. Now after two years hiding as a ship hand, she is finally returning to her beloved home, but not in the way she imagined. Shackled by bounty hunters, she is violently dragged back to account for her crimes. Her only solace is that the Banshee crew managed to evade capture, including Kane Arric, her best friend...with occasional benefits.

Meanwhile, Kane and the rest of the crew of the Banshee plan a desperate rescue mission. But when they arrive on Eturia, Cassia isn't exactly in need of heroics—she's claimed her birthright as Eturia's queen, but has inherited a war-torn planet simmering with rebellion. Cassia must make alliances, and Kane, the bastard son of a merchant, isn't a choice that will earn her any friends. Kane knows he will never find someone to replace Cassia—and is certain she returns his feelings—but how can he throw away his own promising future waiting on a queen?

When the outer realm is threatened by the dangerous Zhang mafia, Cassia, Kane and the rest of the Banshee crew uncover a horrifying conspiracy that endangers the entire universe. In the face of unspeakable evil, Cassia must confront her own family's complicated legacy on Eturia and decide once and for all who her real family is.

Hi, booklovers!

I’m author Melissa Landers, and I’m so excited to launch STARFALL, the second and final book in my Starflight duology! This story picks up shortly after the first book ends, but now Cassia and Kane are the main characters, with Doran, Solara, and the rest of the Banshee crew pitching in to help take down an intergalactic mafia. (You know, just an ordinary day in space.) And while saying goodbye to characters is never easy, I think I gave the crew a proper sendoff with plenty of humor, heart, and action. I hope you love STARFALL as much as I do!

Haven’t read the first book? You’re in luck, because for a limited time, Starflight is on sale for 99 cents in all e-formats. Now you can binge read the entire duology in one sitting!

Praise for Starflight
“Smart, action-packed and utterly addictive!” – New York Times bestselling author Amie Kaufman

“Starflight has the cinematic appeal, warp-speed action and unlikely heroes of Star Wars.” – Justine Magazine

“A lively tale of romance, space pirates, conspiracy, and made (as opposed to genetic) families.” – Booklist

“A great choice for fans of raw sci-fi action, reminiscent of the lawlessness presented in the television series Firefly.” – School Library Journal

If you love sci-fi adventure with a dash of romance, I hope you’ll pick up the Starflight duology today. Starflight and Starfall are both available in stores and online.


Starflight purchase links
Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Book Depository | Indie Bound

Starfall purchase links
Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Book Depository | Indie Bound 


To celebrate my book birthday, I’m offering one lucky winner a Starflight duology swag pack, complete with bookmarks and two signed mini posters! The giveaway is open internationally. Due to sweepstakes laws, entrants must be 18 years or older to participate.


Best of luck, and happy reading!


ABOUT MELISSA LANDERS

Melissa Landers is a former teacher who left the classroom to pursue other worlds. A proud sci-fi geek, she isn’t afraid to wear her Princess Leia costume in public—just ask her husband and three kids. She lives outside Cincinnati in the small town of Loveland, “Sweetheart of Ohio.” For more information or just to say hello, visit www.melissa-landers.com.

GIVEAWAY


Saturday, April 23, 2016

Looking Ahead: Cover Reveals #6

Lately cover art for Fall 2016 and Winter 2017 titles have been popping all over the internet. Last week Entertainment Weekly wowed us with cover art for Caraval and Wayfarer. This week there are four covers that were revealed. All four books are ones that I am looking forward to and the cover art  is absolutely gorgeous with the jewel tones and dark colors. I have to say that the following beauties look rather lovely next to each other.

On Wednesday, April 20th, Entertainment Weekly revealed the cover to Stalking Jack the Ripper by Kerri Maniscalco. All I can say is WOW! The cover definitely screams historical fiction and Gothic horror. The red and the green look stunning against the black background. Not only is the cover gorgeous but the excerpt is eerily satisfying and it's definitely not for the faint of heart. Stalking Jack the Ripper is the first YA title under James Patterson's JIMMY imprint. Also, Stalking Jack the Ripper's previous title was Of Blood and Shadow.

Title: Stalking Jack the Ripper
Author: Kerri Maniscalco
Publisher: Jimmy Patterson
Publication date: September 20, 2016

On Thursday, April 21st, YA Interrobang revealed the cover art to Branded, which is the sequel to Inked by Eric Smith. The reds, oranges and purples are stunningly vibrant and they look fantastic next to Inked's sea of blues and greens. Graphic designer, Jenny Zemanek, did a fantastic job designing both covers. Click here to enter to win a e-book of Inked and some posters.

Title: Branded
Author: Eric Smith
Publisher: Bloomsbury Spark
Publication date: September 6, 2016


On Thursday, April 21st, Mashable unveiled the cover to The Midnight Star which is the last book in The Young Elites trilogy by Marie Lu. Not only is this cover art my favorite out of all of the three in the series, but I cannot wait to see how the trilogy ends. The contrast of the coppery bronze lettering against the backdrop of blues is very pleasing to the eyes.  Check out what Lu has to say about The Midnight Star here.

Title: The Midnight Star
Author: Marie Lu
Publisher: G.P. Putnam’s Sons Books for Young
Publication date: October 11, 2016


On Thursday, April 21st, YA Books Central wowed us with the cover art to Starfall which is the companion book in the Starflight duology by Melissa Landers. Not only is the cover art ravishing, but Starfall is one of my most anticipated book for 2017. The glowing pink and purple pop out of the page, highlighting the title text well. I love how the orb is a planet and the black background brings out the white, purple and pink. Also, I love the movement within space. It definitely screams sci-fi!

Title: Starfall
Author: Melissa Landers
Publisher: Disney-Hyperion
Publication date: February 7, 2017

 


What do you think of the cover art for the books listed above? Do you have a favorite?

Monday, April 18, 2016

Looking Ahead: Cover Reveals #5

So lately Entertainment Weekly has been wowing us with gorgeous cover art for early 2017 front list titles. Not only am I am excited about these books based on the synopsis but the eye-catching cover art definitely makes me wish that it's 2017 already.

On Thursday, April 14th, Entertainment Weekly revealed the cover to Wayfarer, which is the sequel to Passenger by Alexandra Bracken. Warfarer's cover art is just as gorgeous as Passenger's. The color palette is pleasing to the eye. I am intrigued by the tree enclosed in a glass dome. The watercolor effect softens the look and the yellow brown has a nice contrast with the purple. I also like the use of white space. Thank you to Marci Senders and the marketing team at Disney-Hyperion for this ravishing cover art. Definitely check out this link for an exclusive interview and an excerpt.

Title: Wayfarer
Author: Alexandra Bracken
Publisher: Disney-Hyperion
Publication date: January 3, 2017


On Friday, April 15th, Entertainment Weekly revealed the cover to Caraval by Stephanie Garber. The colors are vibrant and the design is captivating! How stunning is the typography? I praise Erin Fitzsimmons and the marketing team for this exceptional cover! Also, Caraval has been chosen as a BEA buzz book and the rights for the film have been sold. Once titled Hearts Made of Black, Caraval is taking the YA community by a storm. This is definitely a fantasy novel to be on the lookout for by a debut author. Click here for an excerpt and more information about the novel.

Title: Caraval
Author: Stephanie Garber
Publisher: Flatiron Books
Publication date: January 10, 2017


Are you looking forward to any of the books above? What other books are you looking forward to with fantastic cover designs?

Tuesday, February 2, 2016

Starflight Launch Blitz & Giveaway

It's finally launch day for Starflight by Melissa Landers! You definitely don't want to miss out on this amazing intergalactic space adventure novel. Ms. Landers has a few words to say about her book. Also, don't forget to check out my glowing review about Starflight!


Title: Starflight
Author: Melissa Landers
Publisher: Disney-Hyperion
Publication date: February 2, 2016
Pages: 320

Synopsis (from Goodreads.com)
Life in the outer realm is a lawless, dirty, hard existence, and Solara Brooks is hungry for it. Just out of the orphanage, she needs a fresh start in a place where nobody cares about the engine grease beneath her fingernails or the  felony tattoos across her knuckles. She's so desperate to reach the realm that she's willing to indenture herself to Doran Spaulding, the rich and popular quarterback who made her life miserable all through high school, in exchange for passage aboard the spaceliner Zenith.

When a twist of fate lands them instead on the Banshee, a vessel of dubious repute, Doran learns he's been framed on Earth for conspiracy. As he pursues a set of mysterious coordinates rumored to hold the key to clearing his name, he and Solara must get past their enmity to work together and evade those out for their arrest. Life on the Banshee may be tumultuous, but as Solara and Doran are forced to question everything they once believed about their world--and each other--the ship becomes home, and the eccentric crew family. But what Solara and Doran discover on the mysterious Planet X has the power to not only alter their lives, but the existence of everyone in the universe...

Hey there, booklovers!

I’m author Melissa Landers, and I’m thrilled to announce the release of STARFLIGHT, the first in a brand new sci-fi series from Disney-Hyperion. I originally pitched this story to my editor as “Overboard” (one of my favorite romantic comedies) meets “Firefly” (an amazing show that was tragically cancelled after one season). STARFLIGHT follows the misadventures of Solara Brooks, a penniless felon who indentures herself to her high school nemesis, Doran Spaulding, in exchange for passage to a new world. But when Doran’s memory is temporarily erased, Solara convinces him their roles are reversed—that she’s the master and he’s the servant—and leads him onto a renegade spaceship, where intergalactic shenanigans ensue. STARFLIGHT is very different in tone from the Alienated trilogy, but the story is still filled with all the things I love: humor, heart, and adventure.

What do reviewers have to say?

“Get ready for blast-off! Action-packed and utterly addictive, nobody writes like Melissa Landers. A smart, satisfying romance set in a vividly detailed world, Starflight was just plain fun!” –New York Times bestselling author Amie Kaufman

“Teens will be bracing themselves during the swashbuckling action scenes. A great choice for fans of raw sci-fi action, reminiscent of the lawlessness presented in the television series Firefly.” –School Library Journal

“A lively tale of romance, space pirates, conspiracy, and made (as opposed to genetic) families.” –Booklist

If you like your sci-fi adventure served with a side of romance, I hope you’ll pick up a copy of STARFLIGHT today. It’s now available in stores and online.

Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Book Depository (free international shipping) | Indie Bound

To celebrate my book birthday, I’m offering one lucky winner a STARFLIGHT swag pack, complete with custom nail wraps, bookmarks, and a mini poster! The giveaway is open internationally. Due to sweepstakes laws, entrants must be 18 years or older to participate.

Best of luck, and happy reading!

a Rafflecopter giveaway


ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Melissa Landers is a former teacher who left the classroom to pursue other worlds. A proud sci-fi geek, she isn’t afraid to wear her Princess Leia costume in public—just ask her husband and three kids. She lives outside Cincinnati in the small town of Loveland, “Sweetheart of Ohio.” For more information or just to say hello, visit www.melissa-landers.com.

Monday, January 25, 2016

Starflight by Melissa Landers

Title: Starflight
Author: Melissa Landers
Publisher: Disney-Hyperion
Publication date: February 2, 2016
Pages: 320
Source/format: e-ARC/Netgalley

Rating: ☆☆☆1/2

Synopsis (from Goodreads.com):

Life in the outer realm is a lawless, dirty, hard existence, and Solara Brooks is hungry for it. Just out of the orphanage, she needs a fresh start in a place where nobody cares about the engine grease beneath her fingernails or the felony tattoos across her knuckles. She's so desperate to reach the realm that she's willing to indenture herself to Doran Spaulding, the rich and popular quarterback who made her life miserable all through high school, in exchange for passage aboard the spaceliner Zenith.

When a twist of fate lands them instead on the Banshee, a vessel of dubious repute, Doran learns he's been framed on Earth for conspiracy. As he pursues a set of mysterious coordinates rumored to hold the key to clearing his name, he and Solara must get past their enmity to work together and evade those out for their arrest. Life on the Banshee may be tumultuous, but as Solara and Doran are forced to question everything they once believed about their world--and each other--the ship becomes home, and the eccentric crew family. But what Solara and Doran discover on the mysterious Planet X has the power to not only alter their lives, but the existence of everyone in the universe...



My Thoughts

"He wanted her to be the Solara he'd come to know--his Solara." - ARC

Starflight is an intergalactic space travel journey like no other. The two main characters are total opposites from each other. Solara Brooks is a hardworking mechanic trying to find a way to the lawless outer realm but has a felony conviction. She is so desperate to aboard Spaceliner Zenith, she agrees to be Doran Spaulding's indentured servant for passage on the Zenith. Doran, heir to the galaxy's largest fuel corporation, was a varsity football star back when Solar and Doran were at the academy together. He ridicules her when they were in school and still does today. Unexpected circumstances occur and the duo end up on Banshee running away from the law. A vessel of misfits end up bonding over secrets and past lives while encountering space pirates!

The novel is written in dual POV. The writing is fabulous and mesmerizing. Melissa Landers does a fantastic job with character development with not only the main characters but also with the secondary characters. Landers is able to capture sci-fi perfectly in Starflight. Solara is witty, independent and knows what she wants. Doran, on the other hand, is a spoiled, rich jerk. Despite their differences, they learn to become civil toward each other. Landers has done an incredible job with the slow burning romance. However, I found it interesting when Doran isn't super mad when he bumped into someone unexpected at the end of the novel. He is upset at first but then he bonds with that person like nothing ever happened. I would think Doran would hold a grudge a bit longer since it took forever for him to warm up to Solara.

I highly recommend Starflight to readers who like adventure and sci-fi. I can't wait to read the companion novel to Starflight about Cassia and and Kane.

Monday, January 4, 2016

Passenger by Alexandra Bracken

Title: Passenger
Author: Alexandra Bracken
Publisher: Disney-Hyperion
Publication date: January 5, 2016
Pages: 464
Source/format: e-ARC from Netgalley

Rating: ☆☆☆

Synopsis (from Goodreads.com):

passage, n.
i. A brief section of music composed of a series of notes and flourishes.
ii. A journey by water; a voyage.
iii. The transition from one place to another, across space and time.

In one devastating night, violin prodigy Etta Spencer loses everything she knows and loves. Thrust into an unfamiliar world by a stranger with a dangerous agenda, Etta is certain of only one thing: she has traveled not just miles but years from home. And she’s inherited a legacy she knows nothing about from a family whose existence she’s never heard of. Until now.

Nicholas Carter is content with his life at sea, free from the Ironwoods—a powerful family in the colonies—and the servitude he’s known at their hands. But with the arrival of an unusual passenger on his ship comes the insistent pull of the past that he can’t escape and the family that won’t let him go so easily. Now the Ironwoods are searching for a stolen object of untold value, one they believe only Etta, Nicholas’ passenger, can find. In order to protect her, he must ensure she brings it back to them— whether she wants to or not.

Together, Etta and Nicholas embark on a perilous journey across centuries and continents, piecing together clues left behind by the traveler who will do anything to keep the object out of the Ironwoods’ grasp. But as they get closer to the truth of their search, and the deadly game the Ironwoods are play­ing, treacherous forces threaten to sep­arate Etta not only from Nicholas but from her path home . . . forever

My Thoughts

Henrietta Spencer (aka Etta) lives in New York during the year of 2015 as a violinist prodigy and is suddenly transported back into time to a random place in 1776 on a ship in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean. Little did she know she was going to befriend Nicholas Carter. Nicholas is content about his life since he is free from the Ironwoods for many years until Etta shows up. Both Etta and Nicholas are launched into a web of lies, secrets and betrayal. It's a game that they must play. He finds out that the Ironwoods are not giving up on him. Both time travelers undertake this dangerous journey, crossing many continents and centuries to locate an artifact called an astrolabe in order to save Etta's mother. If Etta fails to locate the astrolabe and bring it back to the Ironwoods, she will lose everything.

Time traveling is something I don't see too much in YA and I am glad Alexandra Bracken wrote Passenger so wonderfully. I love how Bracken weaves music with a dangerous voyage across seas. The plot is carefully crafted. The novel is well written and the dual POVs capture the emotions and thoughts of both characters seamlessly. Readers are transported to New York, London, Angkor, Paris and Damascus during various time periods. Etta is strong-willed, cunning and independent young lady while Nicholas is vigilant and protective. The writing is compelling but I feel like the pacing of the book is slower toward the middle and the novel could have been shortened. The book is over 450 pages and certain parts could have been tightened. I do appreciate seeing diversity in the book and how Bracken doesn't sugarcoat how Nicholas is being treated throughout the past. And that cliffhanger! I don't want to spoil the novel too much but this is a must read!

If you're a fan of the Infernal Devices trilogy by Cassandra Clare and or are interested in historical fiction, I would highly recommend Passenger.

Monday, June 8, 2015

Every Last Word by Tamara Ireland Stone

Title: Every Last Word
Author: Tamara Ireland Stone
Publisher: Disney-Hyperion
Publication date: June 16, 2015
Pages: 368
Source/format: e-ARC provided by Netgalley

Rating: ☆☆☆

Synopsis (from Goodreads.com): 

If you could read my mind, you wouldn't be smiling. 


Samantha McAllister looks just like the rest of the popular girls in her junior class. But hidden beneath the straightened hair and expertly applied makeup is a secret that her friends would never understand: Sam has Purely-Obsessional OCD and is consumed by a stream of dark thoughts and worries that she can't turn off. 

Second-guessing every move, thought, and word makes daily life a struggle, and it doesn't help that her lifelong friends will turn toxic at the first sign of a wrong outfit, wrong lunch, or wrong crush. Yet Sam knows she'd be truly crazy to leave the protection of the most popular girls in school. So when Sam meets Caroline, she has to keep her new friend with a refreshing sense of humor and no style a secret, right up there with Sam's weekly visits to her psychiatrist. 

Caroline introduces Sam to Poet's Corner, a hidden room and a tight-knit group of misfits who have been ignored by the school at large. Sam is drawn to them immediately, especially a guitar-playing guy with a talent for verse, and starts to discover a whole new side of herself. Slowly, she begins to feel more "normal" than she ever has as part of the popular crowd . . . until she finds a new reason to question her sanity and all she holds dear.


My Thoughts:

Samantha (Sam) was always part of the Crazy Eights, a Mean Girls like popular clique. However, she hides a secret from most people. When Samantha was younger, she was diagnosed with Purely Obsessional Obsessive–compulsive disorder (OCD). Every day it is hard for her to stay in control. It's a struggle. Her so called best friends don't treat her like a friend. One day she meets Caroline near the lockers and Caroline introduces Samantha to the Poet's Corner, a secret underground poetry club. For Sam the Poet's Corner is a place where she can be herself and she can express her feelings through words. No longer does she have to keep her feelings bottled up inside and she does not have to pretend to be someone who she is not. The Poet's Corner is a place to be yourself and there is no judging of others. Sam had been distancing herself from the Crazy Eights in order to spend her free time or lunches at the Poet's Corner. Originally the guy in charge of the key to the Poet's Corner doesn't want Sam to join the group. Sam doesn't know why but realizes that they knew each other back in grade school. By becoming friends with the members of the Poet's Corner, Sam reinvents herself.

This Every Last Word blew me away. The novel is beautifully written and is relatable. I have not read a book with a character having OCD and never knew about the struggles one goes through to try to keep it a secret. Even the Crazy Eights don't know about Sam's condition because Sam crates a facade that she is "normal." Sam is strong. She gets knocked down but she always gets right back up. She is in control even when she thinks she is not. Even when Sam swims, she keeps her cool. Swimming helps her relieve some of the tension and helps her focus. The number three is important to Sam. Not only does she always swim in lane three and counts things in threes, three is symbolic. She even has three notebooks to write down her thoughts. Tamara Ireland Stone cleverly titled each chapter with three words. I even enjoyed reading how Sam counts in threes when she is thinking. My favorite number is three so reading about how three is symbolic makes me happy!

I am glad there is no instalove in this book. When Sam meets AJ, they don't even become friends right away. AJ didn't even want to be friends with Sam. Slowly they become friends and even something more. I love the slow burning romance. Stone includes adult figures in the novel who are shown in a positive light for a teen. Sam's parents and her therapist are super supportive of her and Sam appreciates everything they do to help her. The twist at the end caught me by surprise but it works so well with the novel. I highly recommend the Every Last Word for realistic contemporary fans and also if you enjoy reading coming-of-age novels.

There is currently a pre-order giveaway where the first 50 people will receive a personalized bookplate and a signed bookmark. You can also enter for a chance to win a Every Last Word prize pack.

Wednesday, April 1, 2015

Black Dove, White Raven by Elizabeth Wein

Title: Black Dove, White Raven
Author: Elizabeth Wein
Publisher: Disney-Hyperion
Publication date:  March 31, 2015
Pages: 368
Source/format: e-ARC from Netgalley

Rating: ☆☆☆

Synopsis (from goodreads.com):

A new historical thriller masterpiece from New York Times bestselling and award-winning author Elizabeth Wein.

Emilia and Teo's lives changed in a fiery, terrifying instant when a bird strike brought down the plane their stunt pilot mothers were flying. Teo's mother died immediately, but Em's survived, determined to raise Teo according to his late mother's wishes-in a place where he won't be discriminated against because of the color of his skin. But in 1930s America, a white woman raising a black adoptive son alongside a white daughter is too often seen as a threat. 

Seeking a home where her children won't be held back by ethnicity or gender, Rhoda brings Em and Teo to Ethiopia, and all three fall in love with the beautiful, peaceful country. But that peace is shattered by the threat of war with Italy, and teenage Em and Teo are drawn into the conflict. Will their devotion to their country, its culture and people, and each other be their downfall or their salvation? 

In the tradition of her award-winning and bestselling Code Name Verity, Elizabeth Wein brings us another thrilling and deeply affecting novel that explores the bonds of friendship, the resilience of young pilots, and the strength of the human spirit.

My Thoughts: 

Delia and Rhoda are known as the Black Dove and White Raven, a female duo of stunt pilots. An aerial performance goes wrong and Delia passes away. Rhoda loses her soulmate and raises Teo, Delia's son, along with her own daughter Em. In the 1930's, it is looked down upon if Whites and Blacks mingle and females have less rights than males. Rhoda seeks a place to raise both children with little discrimination as possible. Rhoda's Quaker parents in Pennsylvania take care of the children when Rhoda tries to mend her broken heart. Before Delia passed away, Rhoda and Delia were saving up money to relocate to Ethiopia to raise their children. Rhoda ultimately relocates to Ethiopia where Teo's father is from because she wanted to fulfill Delia's dream. Rhoda eventually teaches Em and Teo to fly. Teo is a quick learner but Em is a little bit more hesitant. Life is good until the second Italo-Ethiopian War (Second Italo-Abyssinian War) threatens the family of three. Italy swoops in to invade the then independent nation of Ethiopia.

Elizabeth Wein does an excellent job with Black Dove, White Raven. Her writing is beautiful and lyrical. I am a big fan of historical fiction and this one did not disappoint. Wein not only created a wonderful story but she also taught me a lot about history. I know very little about Ethiopia so I am glad I learned a lot from reading Black Dove, White Raven. This is a good book to incorporate into history or English curriculum if students are studying the 1930's.

The characters are well developed and I love how Wein included information about Delia even after she passes away. Reading about Delia's and Rhoda's relationship is touching. I love how Rhoda's mother describes how Rhoda has lost her soulmate and how a soulmate is "two people who understand each other without talking about it. Two halves of a whole" (ARC, page 21). I totally agree. Soulmates do not have to be married. I appreciate how Em and Teo take on the personas of their mothers.

The narration of book is pretty interesting. Some people love it and some people hate it. I enjoyed the style of it. It gives me a glimpse of what the characters are thinking, the passion they pour into letters and provides me factual data for the logs. I enjoyed watching Teo and Em grow throughout the book. Will their friendship and family loyalties be tested? Will the war separate them? Pick up Black Dove, White Raven to find out!

Monday, February 2, 2015

Invaded by Melissa Landers Blitz


I am excited to be able to participate in the Invaded release week blitz! Thank you to Rock Star Book Tours for the opportunity. Invaded by Melissa Landers is the second book in the Alienated series. If you love Alienated, you will love Invaded! Be sure to pick up your copy soon! I was able to take advantage of the pre-order campaign for a signed hardcover of Invaded and a signed paperback of Alienated. I can't wait for my book mail :D.

Checkout the note from Melissa below and make sure to enter the giveaway!

Hey, fiction lovers. I’m Melissa Landers, author of the Alienated series (YA sci-fi from Disney-Hyperion), and today I’m bouncing with excitement because THE SEQUEL IS FINALLY HERE!

It’s been a year since we left Aelyx and Cara onboard the intergalactic transport, and INVADED begins with an emotional goodbye as they part ways—Aelyx returning to Earth to salvage the alliance, and Cara continuing to L’eihr to serve out her part of the student exchange. While they’re apart, our star-crossed lovers will face assassination attempts, betrayal, crippling self-doubt, and a sadistic alien Phys Ed class. (Because there’s no escaping PE, even in another galaxy.) When Aelyx and Cara finally reunite…well, let’s just say it’s combustive. ;-)

What do reviewers think? I’m glad you asked!

“Readers will love the seamless blend of suspense, humor, and romance set against an interstellar landscape. Dual narratives and a tightly plotted mystery keep the suspense running high, and the chemistry between Aelyx and Cara smolders.” –Booklist

“Excellent character development and integration between modern reality and science fiction. Teens will be rooting for the galactic couple while enjoying the action and suspense that runs through the two volumes.” –School Library Journal

“The protagonists' forced separation gives greater depth to their romance. Each learns to turn a critical eye upon the flaws of their native societies while confronting genuine obstacles to a future together. These complications only underscore the growing sense of menace that propels the narrative to an action-packed climax.” –Kirkus

I hope you’ll make tracks to the nearest bookstore and pick up a copy of INVADED! If you’re snowed in, here are some easy links to bring the sequel right to you:

Book Depository (free worldwide shipping)


About Melissa Landers  

Melissa Landers is a former teacher who left the classroom to pursue other worlds. A proud sci-fi geek, she isn’t afraid to wear her Princess Leia costume in public—just ask her husband and three kids. She lives outside Cincinnati in the small town of Loveland, “Sweetheart of Ohio.” For more information, or just to say hello, visit www.melissa-landers.com.

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To celebrate my book birthday, I’m offering one lucky winner a $25 gift card to Barnes & Noble and an autographed swag pack, complete with mini posters of BOTH books! This giveaway is open internationally, and due to sweepstakes laws, entrants must be 18 years or older to participate.


Best of luck, and happy reading!
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Checkout my review of Invaded!

Title: Invaded
Author: Melissa Landers
Publisher: Disney Hyperion
Publication date:  February 3, 2015
Pages: 368
Source/format: ARC from Boston Book Festival

Rating: ☆☆☆ 1/2
Synopsis (from Goodreads):

The romantic sequel to Alienated takes long-distance relationships to a new level as Cara and Aelyx long for each other from opposite ends of the universe...until a threat to both their worlds reunites them.

Cara always knew life on planet L’eihr would be an adjustment. With Aelyx, her L’eihr boyfriend, back on Earth, working to mend the broken alliance between their two planets, Cara is left to fend for herself at a new school, surrounded by hostile alien clones. Even the weird dorm pet hates her.

Things look up when Cara is appointed as human representative to a panel preparing for a human colony on L’eihr. A society melding their two cultures is a place where Cara and Aelyx could one day make a life together. But with L’eihr leaders balking at granting even the most basic freedoms, Cara begins to wonder if she could ever be happy on this planet, even with Aelyx by her side.

Meanwhile, on Earth, Aelyx, finds himself thrown into a full-scale PR campaign to improve human-L’eihr relations. Humans don’t know that their very survival depends on this alliance: only Aelyx’s people have the technology to fix the deadly contamination in the global water supply that human governments are hiding. Yet despite their upper hand, the leaders of his world suddenly seem desperate to get humans on their side, and hardly bat an eye at extremists’ multiple attempts on Aelyx’s life.

The Way clearly needs humans’ help . . . but with what? And what will they ask for in return?

My Thoughts:

I couldn't wait to read Invaded. I pretty much marathoned both books in a row. Cara and Aelyx take the long distance relationship to a whole new galaxy. Aelyx ends up staying on Earth with Syrine to maintain the alliance between the L'eihrs and humans with a PR touring campaign. When HALO human extremists threaten Aelyx's and Syrine's life, The Way turns their heads the other way. But why? Are they hiding something? Do they not care about Aelyx and Syrine? Do they plan to sacrifice them for the future of L'eihr? There are humans that are willing to die for the L'eihrs. David is human and joins Aelyx and Syrine protecting them from harm.

Cara, on the other hand, is stuck on L'eihr. However, Cara has some comfort with Troy, her brother, being on L'eihr. Cara learns the ways of L'eihr and even becomes a citizen of this new world. I love the world that Melissa Landers created. In Alienated, we learn a little bit about the L'eihrs but we learn so much more in Invaded. We learn their traditions, how they live and how they stay fit. Cara is trying her best to assimilate to the L'eihr ways but she is struggling. She is suspicious about what The Way has planned for her and mankind. Cara uncovers secrets that have been hidden from her and boy is it an exciting read when her suspicions about certain things are actually true.

Although there isn't much romance throughout the books due to the long distance relationship, I love the little things Cara and Aelyx do in order to stay in touch. They keep in contact with each other through the comsphere. Aelyx even ends up sending a shirt of his to Cara so Cara can smell him even though he is back on Earth. I thought that is super cute. Sometimes it's the little things that bring joy! However, there is a second relationship blossoming in Invaded. It is something I didn't expect at first but I like how love grows over time.

I love seeing the difference between humans and L'eihrs. Even though Alienated and Invaded are fiction, readers can see similarities of race relations that are similar to our's. Although we are all different, we have a lot to learn from one another. I appreciate how there are different ranges of acceptance of each other between the two species. We see some L'eihrs hate Cara with a passion but we see some who treat Cara like one of their own. We see some humans who want to kill Aelyx but we see some who are willing to risk their lives for him. There are some characters that are one sided that end up changing their stance throughout the book. An example is how Syrine starts off hating all humans and by the end of the book, she realizes that some are willing to sacrifice their lives for L'eihrs. She realizes they aren't all bad and savage. I love how Elle treats Cara like a sister and protects her just like how Aelyx does.

The ending is pretty crazy! It's even more action packed than Alienated. I hope a third book is coming out because I need more books about Cara and Aelyx. However, Landers leaves the ending at a good spot whether the series comprises of two or three books.

Wednesday, January 14, 2015

Alienated by Melissa Landers

Title: Alienated
Author: Melissa Landers
Publisher: Disney Hyperion
Publication date:  February 4, 2014
Pages: 344
Source/format: Hardcover, library

Rating: ☆☆☆ 1/2

Synopsis (from Goodreads):

Two years ago, the aliens made contact. Now Cara Sweeney is going to be sharing a bathroom with one of them. 

Handpicked to host the first-ever L’eihr exchange student, Cara thinks her future is set. Not only does she get a free ride to her dream college, she’ll have inside information about the mysterious L’eihrs that every journalist would kill for. Cara’s blog following is about to skyrocket. 

Still, Cara isn’t sure what to think when she meets Aelyx. Humans and L’eihrs have nearly identical DNA, but cold, infuriatingly brilliant Aelyx couldn’t seem more alien. She’s certain about one thing, though: no human boy is this good-looking. 

But when Cara's classmates get swept up by anti-L'eihr paranoia, Midtown High School suddenly isn't safe anymore. Threatening notes appear in Cara's locker, and a police officer has to escort her and Aelyx to class. 

Cara finds support in the last person she expected. She realizes that Aelyx isn’t just her only friend; she's fallen hard for him. But Aelyx has been hiding the truth about the purpose of his exchange, and its potentially deadly consequences. Soon Cara will be in for the fight of her life—not just for herself and the boy she loves, but for the future of her planet.

My Thoughts:

Cara Sweeney is an over achiever. She is valedictorian, president of the Honor Society and is a two time state debate champion. Her school nominated her to participate in an intergalaxy exchange program called the Leihr Exchange Ambassador Program (LEAP). She is paired up with Aelyx, a L'eihr student ambassador. Cara's family hosts Aelyx for a year of schooling while Aelyx shadows Cara at school. This exchange program is meant for the alliance between Earth and L'eihr to grow stronger.

Cara's family is super supportive which I liked. A lot parents aren't so supportive in a teen's life so I found Cara's family very likable. However, Cara's boyfriend isn't so supportive. He believes that the L'eihrs should not be on Earth and are not to be trusted. He even joins this group called Humans Against L'eihr Occupation aka HALO. Some people do not support the alliance and protest at the school and treat the L'eihrs poorly. It gets to the point that Cara breaks off the relationship with Eric due to their different views. Eventually Cara and her best friend of six years decide to break off their friendship as well.

Cara is super thoughtful in terms of making Aelyx feel like he is at home. She asks him how his room looks like at home and replicates it as close as she can on Earth. She tries to make him foods similar to what he eats at home and was successful when she had her mom cook a pot roast which tasted similar to Aelyx's favorite dish back at home called l'ina. I think it's cute how Aelyx calls Cara Elire.

Alienated reminds me of the the CW show Star-Crossed that got canceled after the first season. It is fairly similar except a small group Atrians (alien species) are integrated with humans at a high school of a suburban town. The Red Hawks are the equivalent to HALO. Both Alienated and Star-Crossed have alien species who have a plant that can cure humans from certain illnesses/diseases. However, I believe that Alienated would make a better TV series.

I like how Melissa Landers would start or end some chapters of Alienated with a blog post written by Cara. I also enjoyed reading the dual POV in the novel and I can tell which POV is Cara's and which POV is Aelyx's. Reading from Aelyx's POV and Cara's POV helps the reader feel what they are thinking and what they are going through. Landers does a good job developing the relationship between Cara and Aelyx. There is no instalove and THANK GOODNESS! I love how their relationship blossoms. Both are indifferent to each other when they first meet but over time they start to grow fond of each other. The ending of the novel is action packed. There is so much going on it was pretty intense and crazy! Definitely pick up a copy of Alienated when you have a chance. The sequel, Invaded, has a publication date of February 3, 2015.

There is a pre-order deal for signed copies of Invaded and Alienated. Check it out on Melissa Landers' site. The last day for the pre-order is January 15, 2015.


Tuesday, October 21, 2014

The Blood of Olympus by Rick Riordan

Title: The Blood of Olympus
Author: Rick Riordan
Publisher: Disney-Hyperion
Publication date:  October 7, 2014
Pages: 502
Source/format: Purchased, hardcover

Rating: ☆☆☆☆☆

Synopsis (from Goodreads):

Though the Greek and Roman crewmembers of the Argo II have made progress in their many quests, they still seem no closer to defeating the earth mother, Gaea. Her giants have risen—all of them—and they're stronger than ever. They must be stopped before the Feast of Spes, when Gaea plans to have two demigods sacrificed in Athens. She needs their blood—the blood of Olympus—in order to wake.

The demigods are having more frequent visions of a terrible battle at Camp Half-Blood. The Roman legion from Camp Jupiter, led by Octavian, is almost within striking distance. Though it is tempting to take the Athena Parthenos to Athens to use as a secret weapon, the friends know that the huge statue belongs back on Long Island, where it "might" be able to stop a war between the two camps.

The Athena Parthenos will go west; the Argo II will go east. The gods, still suffering from multiple personality disorder, are useless. How can a handful of young demigods hope to persevere against Gaea's army of powerful giants? As dangerous as it is to head to Athens, they have no other option. They have sacrificed too much already. And if Gaea wakes, it is game over.


My Thoughts:
Seven half-bloods shall answer the call,
To storm or fire the world must fall.
An oath to keep with a final breath, 
And foes bear arms to the Doors of Death 
-The Prophecy of Seven in The Blood of Olympus
Can I say that this final installment was beyond EPIC! I was looking forward to this book since I finished reading The House of Hades. What I loved the most in this book is how the relationships between the demigods strengthened.

The way Riordan builds the friendship between Reyna and Nico is perfect. I've always loved Nico. He is always brooding and thinking everyone doesn't want to be friends with him or to be near the son of Hades. But there is something about his personality that I love. The fact that he has some of the coolest powers makes it even better. I was super glad that he has found a place to call home and he does find a certain someone by the end of the book.

I wasn't too fond of Reyna when I first met her in the beginning of the Heroes of Olympus series but I absolutely love her in this installment. I loved how readers are able to learn more about her past and how she reunites with her sister. Reyna and Nico working together was perfect. I don't want to spoil it for everyone but Reyna has a pretty cool power that is used in conjunction with Nico's.

Another friendship I loved is the one between Annabeth and Piper. Annabeth usually takes charge in most situations but there is one situation where she places her faith in Piper's hands. Annabeth is scared in one scene in the book. She doubts Piper half the time but finally trusts Piper and not because Piper can Charmspeak.

My favorite passage between the two is the following:
"You cut the rope," Annabeth said. We're going to die down here!"
"...Fear can't be reasoned with. Neither can hate. They're like love. They're almost identical emotions. That's why Ares and Aphrodite like each other. The twins--Fear and Panic--were spawned from both war and love."
"But I don't...this doesn't make sense."
"No," Piper agreed. "Stop thinking about it. Just feel."
"I hate that."
"I know. You can't plan for feelings. Like with Percy and your future--you can't control every contingency. You have to accept that. Let it scare you. Trust that's it'll be okay anyway."
Annabeth shook her head. I don't know if I can."
"Then for right now, concentrate on the revenge of Damasen. Revenge for Bob."
A moment of silence. I'm good now." 
-Page 206
Annabeth finally admits that she is scared and that she needs help. It's very hard for her to let her guard down but she finally trusts Piper to lead the way.

Also, can I say John Rocco is an amazing artist! I absolutely love his artwork on the cover. And Disney-Hyperion did an awesome job choosing purple for the clothbound and orange for the inner lining. It's absolutely perfect for The Blood of Olympus.

Everyone knows that Riordan plans to write another series set in Boston with a boy named Magnus Chase. Everyone knows Annabeth's last name is Chase. Lo and behold that Magnus Chase is related to Annabeth.
"And my dad's relatives...I haven't thought about them in years. I have an uncle and a cousin in Boston."
-Page 393 
DUN DUN DUN! No one will know until The Sword of Summer of Magnus Chase and the Gods of Asgard is released.

Do the demigods succeed in bringing the Athena Parthenos to Camp Half-Blood? Do both camps unite together to defeat Gaea and her minions? Go and read The Blood of Olympus now! You will not regret it!


Friday, October 26, 2012

The Mark of Athena by Rick Riordan

Title: The Mark of Athena
Author: Rick Riordan
Publisher: Disney Hyperion
Publication date:  October 2, 2012
Pages:  608 
Source/format: Borrowed from the library, hardcover

Rating: ☆☆☆☆

Synopsis  (from Goodreads):

Annabeth is terrified. Just when she's about to be reunited with Percy—after six months of being apart, thanks to Hera—it looks like Camp Jupiter is preparing for war. As Annabeth and her friends Jason, Piper, and Leo fly in on the Argo II, she can’t blame the Roman demigods for thinking the ship is a Greek weapon. With its steaming bronze dragon masthead, Leo's fantastical creation doesn't appear friendly. Annabeth hopes that the sight of their praetor Jason on deck will reassure the Romans that the visitors from Camp Half-Blood are coming in peace.

And that's only one of her worries. In her pocket Annabeth carries a gift from her mother that came with an unnerving demand: Follow the Mark of Athena. Avenge me. Annabeth already feels weighed down by the prophecy that will send seven demigods on a quest to find—and close—the Doors of Death. What more does Athena want from her?

Annabeth's biggest fear, though, is that Percy might have changed. What if he's now attached to Roman ways? Does he still need his old friends? As the daughter of the goddess of war and wisdom, Annabeth knows she was born to be a leader, but never again does she want to be without Seaweed Brain by her side.

Narrated by four different demigods, The Mark of Athena is an unforgettable journey across land and sea to Rome, where important discoveries, surprising sacrifices, and unspeakable horrors await. Climb aboard the Argo II, if you dare....


My Thoughts:

At the end of the Son of Neptune, Ella recites the following:

Wisdom's daughter walks alone,
The Mark of Athena burns through Rome,
Twins snuff out the angel's breath,
Who holds the key to endless death.
The Giants' bane stands gold and pale,
Won through pain from a woven jail.


Well, first of all, who doesn't like books by Rick Riordan? The Mark of Athena is the fourth book in the Heroes of Olympus series which is the spin off of the Percy Jackson series. I absolutely loved this book. It's my favorite so far out of the whole series, especially since Annabeth is my favorite character. Annabeth's journey through her quest was amazing. Seeing Annabeth's strengths and weaknesses makes her a real person.

The alternating POVs are nicely paced. Even though the book is about Annabeth's quest, we see how the other demigods are growing in strength through the battles they have to fight. The Mark of Athena brings together all 7 demigods and gives a chance for both Greeks and Romans to build a relationship.

I love seeing the relationship between Percy and Annabeth blossom. With every book I read, their love grows. They are my favorite couple Rick Riordan's books. I was on edge of my seat when I read the end of the book. The ending is such a cliff hanger involving Percy and Annabeth. I seriously cannot wait into the next installment of this series.