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Library Haul

Got some books from the library, wanted to share them with you.

Borrowed:
The 5th Wave by Rick Yancy
Born Wicked by Jessica Spotswood
Eleanor and Park by Rainbow Rowell
My Life Next Door by Huntley Fitzpatrick
Beautiful Darkness by Kami Garcia and Margaret Stohl

Ascend by Amanda Hocking

Ascend by Amanda Hocking
Released: April 24th 2012 (first released January 1st 2011)
Publisher: St. Martin's Griffin
Series: Trylle, Book Three
Page Amount: 326,US Paperback Edition
Source: Library

*Do not keep reading the follow blurb or review for it may contain spoilers if you haven't read Switched and Torn. You have been warned.*

" Wendy Everly is facing an impossible choice. The only way to save the Trylle from their deadliest enemy is by sacrificing herself.  If she doesn’t surrender to the Vittra, her people will be thrust into a brutal war against an unbeatable foe.  But how can Wendy leave all her friends behind…even if it’s the only way to save them?

The stakes have never been higher, because her kingdom isn’t the only thing she stands to lose. After falling for both Finn and Loki, she’s about to make the ultimate choice…who to love forever. One guy has finally proven to be the love of her life—and now all their lives might be coming to an end. 

Everything has been leading to this moment.  The future of her entire world rests in her hands—if she’s ready to fight for it."
-Information from Goodreads.com

My Thoughts:
I was shocked by the events that occurred. I thought for sure Wendy would end up with Finn. But I am happy she is with someone she loved and can be happy with forever. The fact she stood up to her father and took him down.

Now she and all of Trylle will be safe forever. And they can be in peace with the Vittra.

5/5 stars, Happy Reading, Ashley

Reality Check by Jen Calonita

Reality Check by Jen Calonita
Released: June 14th 2010 (first released May 28th 2010)
Publisher: Poppy
Page Amount: 288, US Hardcover Edition
Source: Library

 "Sixteen-year-olds Charlie, Keiran, Brooke, and Hallie have just been signed up for their own reality television show. They can't even believe it. "You'll be The Hills meets The Secret Life of the American Teenager," the Armani-suited executive tells them, "and the hottest thing on our network." How could they say no? 

But soon enough, cameras following them everywhere and interfering producers surreptitiously scripting their lives start to affect the four best friends' relationship. Brooke seems to want all the screen time. Keiran is abruptly written out of the show-and consequently the group's friendship-when she doesn't rate well. As soon as Charlie realizes what's going on, she figures out the perfect way to give the studio and her home audience a much-needed reality check. 

Because friends don't let friends do reality shows."
-Information from Goodreads.com

My Thoughts:
Being that I loved Jen's Belles series. I wanted to read more of her work. So I picked up Reality Check. I felt like I was reading an skit from The Hills. I just didn't care for it. And put it down for a bit.I pushed myself through to finish.

I know so may find this a cute and light read. But for me it just wasn't my cup of tea.

3/5 stars, Happy Reading, Ashley

Torn by Amanda Hocking

Torn by Amanda Hocking
Released: February 28th 2012 (first released December 31st 2010)
Publisher: St. Martin's Griffin
Series: Trylle, Book Two
Page Amount: 324, US Paperback Edition
Source: Library

*Do not keep reading the following blurb or review for it may contain spoilers if you have not read Switched. You have been warned*

"When Wendy Everly first discovers the truth about herself—that she’s a changeling switched at birth—she knows her life will never be the same. Now she’s about to learn that there’s more to the story…

She shares a closer connection to her Vittra rivals than she ever imagined—and they’ll stop at nothing to lure her to their side. With the threat of war looming, her only hope of saving the Trylle is to master her magical powers—and marry an equally powerful royal. But that means walking away from Finn, her handsome bodyguard who’s strictly off limits…and Loki, a Vittra prince with whom she shares a growing attraction.

Torn between her heart and her people, between love and duty, Wendy must decide her fate. If she makes the wrong choice, she could lose everything, and everybody, she’s ever wanted…in both worlds.

As a special gift to readers, this book contains a new, never-before-published bonus story, “One Day, Three Ways,” set in the magical world of the Trylle."
-Information from Goodreads.com

My Thoughts:
Being that this is a sequel and I do not want to spoil anything. I will try and keep this simple. I really loved Switched and was looking forward to the rest of the series. But for whatever reason I just wasn't as glued to Torn as I was with Switched. I did enjoy reading more about Wendy, Finn and seeing where things went with them and all of Trylle. Definitely went through sequel slump.

4/5 stars, Happy Reading, Ashley

The Perks Of Being A Wallflower by Stephen Chbosky

The Perks Of Being A Wallflower by Stephen Chbosky
Released: June 29th 2010
Publisher: MTV Books
Page Amount: 213, Kindle Edition
Source: Kindle

"Charlie is a freshman.

And while he's not the biggest geek in the school, he is by no means popular. Shy, introspective, intelligent beyond his year yet socially awkward, he is a wallflower, caught between trying to live his life and trying to run from it.

Charlie is attempting to navigate his way through uncharted territory: the world of first dates and mix tapes, family dramas and new friends; the world of sex, drugs, and The Rocky Horror Picture Show, when all one requires is that perfect song on that perfect drive to feel infinite. But he can't stay on the sidelines forever. Standing on the fringes of life offers a unique perspective. But there comes a time to see what it looks like from the dance floor.

The Perks of Being a Wallflower is a deeply affecting coming-of-age story that will spirit you back to those wild and poignant roller-coaster days known as growing up."
-Information from Goodreads.com

My Thoughts:


I enjoyed reading this modern classic. Charlie was such a great character. I loved seeing how he overcame his past to became a more rounded person. With everything he faced he managed to come out of it alright. I loved Patrick and Sam.

This book just did something to you. I want to read all the books that Charlie. Listen to the music he mention. 

Really enjoyed this book. I think you all should read it. Also think this would be the perfect summer read!!! 

5/5 stars, Happy Reading, Ashley

Burn Bright by Marianne de Pierres

                                                      Burn Bright by Marianne De Pierres

Released: March 1st 2011 

Publisher: Random House Australia 

Series: Night Creatures, Book One

Page Amount: 269, Kindle Edition

Source: Kindle

"Into a world of wild secrets and deadly pleasures comes a girl whose innocence may be her greatest strength.

In Ixion music and party are our only beliefs. Darkness is our comfort. We have few rules but they are absolute . . .

Retra doesn’t want to go to Ixion, the island of ever-night, ever-youth and never-sleep. Retra is a Seal – sealed minds, sealed community. She doesn’t crave parties and pleasure, experience and freedom.

But her brother Joel left for Ixion two years ago, and Retra is determined to find him. Braving the intense pain of her obedience strip to escape the only home she’s ever known, Retra stows away on the barge that will take her to her brother.

When she can’t find Joel, Retra finds herself drawn deeper into the intoxicating world of Ixion. Come to me, whispers a voice in her head. Who are the Ripers, the mysterious guardians of Ixion? What are the Night Creatures Retra can see in the shadows? And what happens to those who grow too old for Ixion?

Retra will find that Ixion has its pleasures, but its secrets are deadly. Will friendship, and the creation of an eternal bond with a Riper, be enough to save her from the darkness?

Listen well, baby bats. Burn bright, but do not stray from the paths. Remember, when you live in a place of darkness you also live with creatures of the dark."

-Information from Goodreads.com

My Thoughts:

I was all psyched for this book. I heard nothing but amazing things. So when I dived into Burn Bright, I felt myself not really understanding what was going on. And had a hard time getting into the story. Maybe all the excitement I had was a bit to much. 

I am glad to have read this novel and I might continue on with the series. 

I gave this 3/5 stars

Happy Reading, Ashley  

The Bad Queen: Rules and Instructions For Marie-Antoinette by Carolyn Meyer

The Bad Queen: Rules and Instructions For Marie-Antoinette by Carolyn Meyer
Released: April 12th 2010
Publisher: Harcourt Children's Books
Series: Young Royals, Book Six
Page Amount: 420, US Hardcover Edition
Source: Library

"History paints her as a shallow party girl, a spoiled fashionista, a callous ruler. Perhaps no other royal has been so maligned—and so misunderstood—as Marie-Antoinette.

From the moment she was betrothed to the dauphin of France at age fourteen, perfection was demanded of Marie-Antoinette. She tried to please everyone—courtiers, her young husband, the king, the French people—but often fell short of their expectations. Desperate for affection and subjected to constant scrutiny, this spirited young woman can’t help but want to let loose with elaborate parties, scandalous fashions, and unimaginable luxuries. But as Marie-Antoinette’s lifestyle gets ever-more recklessly extravagant, the peasants of France are suffering from increasing poverty—and becoming outraged. They want to make the queen pay.

In this latest installment of her acclaimed Young Royals series, Carolyn Meyer reveals the dizzying rise and horrific downfall of the last queen of France. Includes historical notes, an author’s note, and a bibliography."

-Information from Goodreads.com

My Thoughts:

Being a history buff. I was interested in learning more about Marie-Antoinette. I loved enjoy reading from her point of view. How strong she was while her whole world was unraveling right before her eyes. I believe there could have  been measures taken to prevent the fall of her and King Louis. They should have been more prepared to rule over France. Instead of being thrown in and trying to figure things out as they went. Also believe everyone should have been taxed.

All in all enjoyed this book. 5/5 stars, Happy Reading, Ashley

Because It Is My Blood by Gabrielle Zevin

Because It Is My Blood by Gabrielle Zevin
Released: September 18th 2012
Publisher: Farrar, Straus and Gioroux (BYR)
Series: Birthright, Book Two
Page Amount: 350, US Hardcover
Source: Library

"Every time I think I’m out, they pull me back in.”- Michael Corleone, The Godfather



Since her release from Liberty Children's Facility, Anya Balanchine is determined to follow the straight and narrow. Unfortunately, her criminal record is making it hard for her to do that. No high school wants her with a gun possession charge on her rap sheet. Plus, all the people in her life have moved on: Natty has skipped two grades at Holy Trinity, Scarlet and Gable seem closer than ever, and even Win is in a new relationship.But when old friends return demanding that certain debts be paid, Anya is thrown right back into the criminal world that she had been determined to escape. It’s a journey that will take her across the ocean and straight into the heart of the birthplace of chocolate where her resolve--and her heart--will be tested as never before."

-Information from Goodreads.com

My Thoughts:

This follows Anya and the Balanchine family following the events in All These Things I've Done. Anya grows more mature in this installment. She is forced to face situations she never thought she would have to.

Although this wasn't as addicting as the first book in the series, I did enjoy it all the same. Gabrielle knows how to put you on one roller coaster  of emotions. 

Cannot wait for book number In The Age Of Love and Chocolate by Gabrielle Zevin is set to be released in October of this year. So excited for it.

Check out this series , 4/5 stars, Happy Reading, Ashley

Blog Tour: The Butterfly Migration by Mia Castile

Hello My Lovely Readers, I am excited to be hosting Mia Castile on her blog tour for The Butterfly Migration. Which is the third installment in her The Butterfly Chronicles series.
I know you all will love this series.

" The worst day of Lacey Baxter’s life was the day her parents announced their divorce and her boyfriend Chase Livingston went into a coma. Scratch that. The worst day of her life was two months later, when he woke up and didn’t recognize her. Now, as he pushes her away, she clings to the hope that each day will be the day he remembers how much they love each other. Turning to her new BFF Byron and his circle of friends, she does whatever she can to cope with the changes. She just wants to be numb and forget about everything.

The headaches, the panic attacks, the pressure to be this perfect boyfriend are incredibly hard for Chase to bear. He doesn’t love Lacey, or at least he doesn’t think he does. Still, he doesn’t understand this strong attraction to her, or the jealousy he feels over every guy that talks to her. Losing two years of his memory means strangers think they know him and he’s not sure where he fits in. Will his memories come back over time or all at once? Should he even wish for them?

Finding each other again could be harder than either of them thought, especially when everyone knows their business and has an opinion about it. "


**This is a Mature YA Series, containing subjects concerning addictions and sexual content.*

Here's a  link to my review:
http://booksarediamonds.blogspot.com/2013/05/the-butterfly-migration-by-mia-castile.html?m=0

I was lucky enough to get an interview with Mia. Here's is the interview:
1. Will there be a fourth novel in The Butterfly Chronicles?
Yes, I’m currently working on a novella that is from Lana’s perspective and
takes place during the same time frame as The Butterfly Migration. It will
be released later this year. Once that is complete I will begin the fourth
and final novel of the series.



2. Where did you get your idea for the series?

This series began as a stand alone with Becoming a Butterfly. As I neared
the end of the novel, I realized there was so much more story to tell. I
wanted to tell Lana’s story and Chase’s too.


3. What has been your favorite scene in the series?
This is a tough question. I love so many scenes. My all time favorite is
the cabin, and then I’d have to say maybe Chase and Lacey’s first
interaction in Becoming a Butterfly. I enjoy the bantering between Chase
and Lacey. They are so much fun to write.

4. Will there be a happy ending for Lacey and Chase?

I’d like to say yes, because I have an idea of what I’d like to happen, but
you never know where the story is going to take you. I guess we’ll have to
wait and see.


5. Can you tell us a little more about yourself
There’s really not much to tell. I put as much of me as I can into my
family, writing and friends. I think relationships are very important and
should be based on honesty and respect. I like to laugh and making other
people laugh is a bonus. And I adore peanut butter. . . That might be it.



6. What's your favorite thing about being an author?
Creating. The ability to create life, as well as emotions and seeing your
vision become real on paper is an amazing and gratifying feeling. This is
what I was meant to do, and is my purpose. Once I realized that and decided
to go for it, everything lined up. So my advice to anyone who doesn’t know
what they want to be when they grow up is this: Follow your dream, don’t
let anyone tell you it’s silly, unrealistic, or out of your reach. Don’t
wish for it, make it happen.


7. What else besides writing, could you see yourself doing?
Do I get to have a secret power? I’m not sure if I can do anything else.
I’ve had quite a few different jobs over the years. I think working around
people would be a necessity, and I enjoy working with computers, this is a
tough question. I’m not sure.



8. Name the last book you read

The Raven Boys


9. Why did you choose to write in the Young Adult genre?
I enjoy reading YA. The young, coming of age stories really appeal to me. I
like the idea of discovering yourself, making mistakes, and then
redemption. First loves and clumsy kisses, it’s great!



10. Is anything in your book based on personal experiences or solely based
on fiction?

Oh, I grab from real life often. Sometimes I get to rewrite reality to how
it should have gone. I’m the kind of girl that has the best comeback two
hours after the conversation. My characters are more quick-witted than me,
but they definitely channel me too, especially in their most awkward
moment.

Ashley, thank you for having me on your blog. This was so much fun. :)

Check out Mia's other Blog Tour stops:
May 26- Mandy ~ i Read indie (Guest Post)
May 27- Peggy ~ Le Book Squirrel (Review)
May 28- Annie ~ Just One More Chapter (Review)
May 29- Denise ~ Books Mystify (Review)
May 30- Taneesha ~ Diary of a Book Addict and Kaidan's Seduction (Review)
May 31- Ali ~ Ginger-Read Reviews (Guest Post)
June 1- Andrea ~ The Busy Bibliophile (Guest Post)
June 2- Ashley ~ Books are Diamonds (Review)
June 3- Nova ~ Musings of a Blogder (Review & Interview)
June 4- Christine ~ I Heart Big Books (Guest Post)

June To Be Read Pile 2013

The books I'm planning on reading in the month of June.
1. Torn by Amanda Hocking
2. Ascend by Amanda Hocking
3. Reality Check by Jen Calonita
4. The Bad Queen: The Rules and Instructions For Marie Antoinette by Carolyn Meyer
5. Fifty Shades Of Grey by E.L. James
6. Grimms Complete Fairy Tales
7. Wanderlove by Kristen Hubbard
8. Safe Haven by Nicholas Sparks

Kindle Books:
Anthem by Ayn Rand
Ashes and Ice by Rochelle Maya Callen
The Perks Of Being A Wallflower by Stephen Chbosky

I hope to read these all.. I may even just pick a few at random. Or whatever is calling my name.

What books are you reading in June? Do you read more summery type books?

Let me know in the comments, Happy Reading, Ashley

May Wrap Up 2013

This is a wrap up of the books I read in the month of May.
1. Witch World by Christopher Pike, loved this one, was the first book I read by Christopher Pike. 5/5 stars
2. The Future Of Us by Jay Asher and Carolyn Mackler, was an interesting read, being a child of the 90s, it was good to read the references. 5/5 stars
3. The Butterfly Migration by Mia Castile, love this installment in the series, looking forward to book four. 5/5 stars
4. Everneath by Brodi Ashton, Reread this in order to read Everbound, it was good. 4/5stars.
5. Switched by Amanda Hocking, loved this start to the series. Never read a book about trolls. 5/5 stars
6. The Best Of Me by Nicholas Sparks, I've been a big fan of Nicholas' since Message In A Bottle, however this book just wasn't as good as his other ones. 3/5 stars

May was an alright reading month for me. Managed to get my reading challenge done. All in All happy with what I accomplished in May.

The only 2 books I do not have reviews for are; Everneath and The Best Of Me, if you would like to see reviews for them. Let me know in the comments.

I didn't get to Grimms Fairy Tales, but I will try to read it in June. I did not finish Everbound and Obisidan Mirror, they just weren't my cup of tea.

What books did you read in May?

Happy Reading, Ashley