Ya Blog newsletter

I'm BAAAACK

2011-04-25T11:34:00.000-07:00

Sorry I didn't say goodbye but I had so much going on. Those of you who have faithfully followed me know I am getting married. Well, now this is postponed to January. I was busy dealing with that. I've also been dealing with health issues all over the place. My baby sister (okay she's 13 so not really a baby) got super sick. They still have not figured out why she was screaming in pain on a regular basis. She is being sent to a children's hospital for some research. My mom has also been dealing with some pretty big things. I don't want to share that though until I see test results and know whats going on for sure. Long story short, my life has been hectic. Through all this I also just graduated from high school and got 2 new jobs. I'm back though. I have been reading like a mad woman. So this week I will get some posts posted.

XO, Thanks for hanging by me!

2010 Reading (Part 2)

2011-01-18T04:59:00.000-08:00

Here is the second part of what I read and the grade it received when I reviewed it.

Jumping off Swings Jo Knowles A
What Kind of Love Sheila Cole B
An off Year Claire Zulkey B
Hold Still Nina LaCour B
Weirdest Creatures Mary Packard B
Strange School Stories Mary Packard B
Creepy Stuff Mary Packard B
Ashes Kathryn Lasky B
Stupid Cupid Rhonda Stapleton A
By the Time You Read This I'll be Dead Julie Anne Peters A
The Camp-Out Mystery Gertrude Chandler Warner A
Runaway Meg Cabot A
Wifey Judy Blume A
Mystery Behind the Wall Gertrude Chandler Warner A
Hidden Beach Mystery Gertrude Chandler Warner A
A Spy in the House Y.S. Lee A
Saving Grace Darlene Ryan B
Alice: A visual companion Mark Salisbury A
Taken by Storm Angela Morrison A
Sing me to Sleep Angela Morrison A
Shopaholic Takes Manhattan Sophie Kinsella A
The Weirdest of the Weird Mary Packard B
Not Quite What I Was Planning Smith Magazine A
Julius Caesar Shakespeare C
Love You Hate You Miss You Elizabeth Scott A
Fences August Wilson A
Boy Toy Barry Lyga B
Princess for Hire Lindsey Leavitt B
Shopaholic Ties the Knot Sophie Kinsella B
Wish Alexandra Bullen B

2010 Reading

2011-01-15T04:50:00.000-08:00

In the year 2010 I read for review 128 books. Here are some of the titles. I'm posting in installments so you can read the whole list :)

My Big Nose and Other Natural Disasters Sydney Salter B
Too Late the Phalarope Alan Paton A
Beautiful Americans Lucy Silag A
Tricks Ellen Hopkins A
Skeleton Creek Patrick Carman B
Ghost in the Machine Patrick Carman B
The Comeback Marlene Perez A
In Your Room Jordanna Fraiberg B
The V Club Kate Brian B
Heartless Sara Shepard A
Pefect You Elizabeth Scott A
In a Heartbeat Loretta Ellsworth A
The Bungalow Mystery Carolyn Keene A
Wanderlust Lucy Silag B
Chasing Brooklyn Lisa Schroeder A
Girl on the Other Side Deborah Kerbel B
Give up the Ghost Megan Crewe C
20 Boy Summer Sarah Ocklear B
After Amy Efaw A
Skinny Dipping Melissa de la Cruz A
Of All the Stupid Things Alexandra Diaz C
Touch Francine Prose B
Inexcusable Chris Lynch C
Wish you were dead Todd Strasser B
Little Black Lies Tish Cohen B
Second Summer of the Sisterhood Ann Brashears A
North of Beautiful Justina Chen Headley C
Beautiful Stranger Zoey Dean B
Girl Stays in the Picture Melissa de la Cruz B
The Diamonds Ted Michael C
The Snowball Effect Holly Nicole Hoxter A
Beautiful Amy Reed B
Twelfth Night Shakespeare C
LA Candy Lauren Conrad A
Invisible I Stella Lennon C
Planet Pregnancy Linda Oatman High A
The Ex Games Jennifer Echols A

Holiday Newsletter Part Four

2009-12-25T11:44:00.000-08:00

Holiday Fun:

Here are some fun blogger holiday memories!

My grandmother thought she was genius one year and conned my dad into transposing music geared towards the different instruments my family members used to play (or at least play less frequently) so that we could play Christmas carols. It started off as a present to my grandfather (I'm sure he's happy to be going deaf now when the holidays come around) and turned into tradition. Let's just say that we maybe meet once - usually not all of us - to practice and then it's the big performance. I play the glockenspiel - which is basically a bells set. Always makes the holidays a hoot around my house.

Play It Out:

This is where we make a playlist for a book we read. If you want to make one email Ashley or Laina.

Title: Breaking up is Really Really Hard to Do
Author: Natalie Stanford

The tunes:
1. Without You- Hinder
2. Fearless- Taylor Swift
3. Here comes Goodbye- Rascal Flatts
4. If I Were a Boy- Beyonce
5. Seventeen Forever- Metro Station
6. Love Like This- Natasha Bedingfield
7. Missing You- Black Eyed Peas
8. Give me the Meltdown- Rob Tomas
9. Meet me Halfway- Black Eyed Peas
10. Feelings show- Colbie Caillat

Spotlighted:

Please welcome new crew member, Chase.

This month, I’ll be spotlighting 2 books that will be adapted into movies in 2010. Enjoy!

Percy Jackson & the Olympians: The Lightning Thief

Author: Rick Riordan

Summary: Percy Jackson is about to be kicked out of boarding school… again. And that’s the least of his troubles. Lately, mythological monsters and the gods of Mount Olympus seem to be walking straight out of the pages of Percy’s Greek mythology textbook and into his life. And worse, he’s angered a few of them. Zeus’s master lightning bolt has been stolen, and Percy is the prime suspect.

Now Percy and his friends have just ten days to find and return Zeus’s stolen property and bring peace to a warring Mount Olympus. But to succeed on his quest, Percy will have to do more than catch the true thief: he must come to terms with the father who abandoned him; solve the riddle of the Oracle, which warns him of betrayal by a friend; and unravel a treachery more powerful than the gods themselves.

The Lightning Thief is the first book in the Percy Jackson & the Olympians series. Ever since this book was released, it’s been getting rave reviews. So it doesn’t really come as a surprise that it would be made into a movie someday. Filled with action, humor, and tons of pop culture references, this book is sure to appeal to readers. I absolutely love the film poster because I thought it was homage to the book cover. Well, sort of...

The Last Song

Author: Nicholas Sparks

Summary: Seventeen year old Veronica "Ronnie" Miller's life was turned upside-down when her parents divorced and her father moved from New York City to Wilmington, North Carolina. Three years later, she remains angry and alienated from her parents, especially her father... until her mother decides it would be in everyone's best interest if she spent the summer in Wilmington with him. Ronnie's father, a former concert pianist and teacher, is living a quiet life in the beach town, immersed in creating a work of art that will become the centerpiece of a local church. The tale that unfolds is an unforgettable story of love on many levels - first love, love between parents and children - that demonstrates, as only a Nicholas Sparks novel can, the many ways that love can break our hearts...and heal them.

Now who doesn’t like a good ol’ love story? (Well, some guys don’t, but personally I think they’re just pretending to hate it when in fact they read romances under their covers with a flashlight ~~like me~~) Nicholas Sparks brings us another coming-of-age tale that is sure to rival, and possibly surpass his previous works. The special thing about this novel is that it was written after Sparks wrote the screenplay for the film, which is imagined as a star vehicle to introduce Miley Cyrus to older audiences.

Author's Say:

10 Reasons I Love Christmas by Laura Wiess

Tis the season to wear velvet, fa la la la la, la la la la. (Soft, plush and luxurious: I indulged in a funky, black velvet maxi coat this year and I swear I'm going to wear it until falls off of me in rags.)
My sister's Christmas cookie extravaganza. (She bakes - I'm not kidding - something like 35 different kinds of cookies, with like four dozen each. And then she gives them all away! I love my sister.)
Snow on Christmas Eve. (Okay, that's never a sure thing but there was snow last year and it was magical, so I'm hoping it happens again.)
Donating to my favorite charities, including the Humane Society, assorted animal rescues, the local soup kitchen, and the Salvation Army bell-ringers standing outside of the stores. (I never miss an S.A. basket. I figure if they can stand out in the freezing cold for hours on end, trying to help people, then the very least I can do is oblige them.)
Scoring what I hope is the perfect gift for someone, then watching them open it, and seeing that yes, it really was.
Christmas carols and church bells. Both make me cry. So do holiday movies. I'm a total sap this time of year, and I love it all. Especially this one: here
Walking into my parents' house calling, "Merry Christmas!" and hearing my family call back. (I love the happy welcome and the smiles in their voices.)
Family, friends, kindness, laughter and Santa. And the jingle horse.
Decorating the tree, and the memories that come with each of the ornaments
A crisp, clear, night sky full of stars, a fireplace with a crackling fire, cats curled up sleeping, a tree with twinkling lights, laughter, fresh coffee, good music, a heart full of joy, peace and gratitude, and a wish that everyone and everything everywhere is warm, well-fed and loved. Happy holidays!

*************************************

Laura Wiess is the author of the critically acclaimed novel Such a Pretty Girl, Leftovers and most recently How It Ends. Visit Laura at http://www.laurawiess.com or http://www.simonandschuster.com for more info.

Win one of 3 of her signed books for the 25 Guests of Christmas. The link for the contest is http://readingisbliss.blogspot.com/2009/12/25goc-laura-wiess-contest.html

Holiday Newsletter Part Three

2009-12-24T11:44:00.000-08:00

Reviewed:

~ Jordyn couldn’t finish Breaking Dawn! See why here.

~ Defenders of the Scroll reviewed here.
~ Vamped reviewed here.

~ Nothing Like You reviewed here.
~ Secrets of Truth and Beauty reviewed here.

~ Invisible I: The Amanda Project reviewed here.
~ Handcuffs reviewed here.

~ Fat Cat reviewed here.
~ Struts and Frets reviewed here.

~ Shrinking Violet reviewed here.
~ Beautiful Creatures reviewed here.

~ The Espressologist reviewed here.

Christmas Book Buying Guide

I polled readers on what they would buy for certain age groups this year for Christmas. Here are some results.

3-6 years old:

A Bad Case of Stripes by David Shannon
Slinky Malinki by Lynley Dodd

Where the Wild Things Are by Maurice Sendak
Who's Afraid of the Big Bad Book by Lauren Child

Today I Will Fly! by Mo Willems
Newton by Rory Tyger

The Tangerine Bear by Betty Paraskevas
Mona the Monster Girl by Moritz Petz

The Frog Princess by Rosalind Alchin
Leaf Man by Lois Ehlert

When Will It Snow? by Bruce Hiscock
Curious George by H. A. Rey

The Snow Bear by Miriam Moss
Mo's Stinky Sweater by David Bedford

7-9 years old:

Letters from Camp by Kate & Sarah Klise
Rainbow Magic by Daisy Meadows
Mary Margaret Mary Christmas by Christine Kole macLean

Any of the Bailey School Kids books

10-12 years old:

The City of Ember by Jeanne DuPrau

Allie Finkle's Rules for Girls by Meg Cabot
I So Don't Do Spooky by Barrie Summy
Anything by Lloyd Alexander

Princess Diaries by Meg Cabot
Witch Twins by Adele Griffin

Love That Dog by Sharon Creech
Punished by David Lubar

The Anybodies by N. E. Bode

13-15 years old:

Harry Potter series by JK Rowling

Zombie Queen of Newbury High by Amanda Ashby
Demon Princess by Michelle Rowen

16+:

Thirteen Reasons Why by Jay Asher
Peace, Love, and Baby Ducks by Lauren Myracle

Long Live the Queen by Ellen Emerson White
City of Ashes by Cassandra Clare

The Forest of Hands and Teeth by Carrie Ryan
Shadowland by Alyson Noel

Bad Blood by Mari Mancusi
Spirit Bound by Richelle Mead

Cliquetionary by Lisi Harrison
Bewitching Season by Marissa Doyle
Betraying Season by Marissa Doyle

Twilight by Stephanie Meyer
Oh.My.Gods by Tera Lynn Childs

Be Strong and Curvaceous by Shelley Adina

Holiday Newsletter Part Two

2009-12-23T11:44:00.000-08:00

Advertise:

We are starting to have a new thing. Bloggers and authors can advertise here. Don’t advertise random blogs. You may advertise contests, new features, challenges, read-a-longs, releases, etc.

The challenge is called 30 Books to Movies, and it will run from 1 Jan 2010 to 31 Dec 2010. The goal is to read 30 books that have been adapted to movies, and watch said movies. Participants who own a blog have to post the review of BOTH the book and movie on their blog. At the end of the challenge, I'll randomly pick 2 participants to receive some goodies. Those who are interested can check out the details here: http://the-bibliophiles-lounge.blogspot.com/2009/11/30-books-to-movies-challenge.html

Jill is hosting 25 Days of Christmas. What is this exactly? Each day in December until the 25th there will be one or more authors or bloggers sharing their favorite things about the holidays or sharing favorite memories, recipes, songs, etc. It started December 1st so be sure to go get caught up! She has many contests and chances to win awesome things. So be sure to check it all out here.

Little Known:

These are the books that don’t have much buzz so we’re creating some!

Skinny
Laura L. Smith

It's a risky thing to look at depression in a positive light. This illness, which is the leading cause of disability worldwide, threatens lives, steals hope, and destroys the spirit of the afflicted one.
But it can also be an opportunity for growth. Light and life can be brighter and stronger if the spiritual roots of depression are addressed and resolved. Through her personal journey, Sharon Fawcett reveals how.

In the Forrest of the Night
Amelia Atwater-Rhodes

Three-hundred-year-old Risika looks darn good for her age. Thanks to her "blood mother," a vampire named Ather who turned Risika (nee Rachel) into one of the undead back in 1684, she will always look as fresh as a 17-year-old. Now Risika is a world weary night stalker who sleeps in Concord, Massachusetts, by day and prowls New York City by night, in search of fresh blood to slake her inhuman thirst. One of the benefits of living such a long life has been discovering that most of the popular myths about vampires are not true: "Holy water and crosses do not bother me... and silver does not burn me. If someone hammered a stake through my heart, I suppose I would die, but I do not play with humans, stakes or mallets." In fact, there is little in the mortal world that surprises Risika anymore, until she returns from a hunt one night to find a black rose on her pillow - the same flower she was given on the eve of her mortal death. Knowing that the rose is a taunt from Aubrey, a vampire she believes murdered her human brother, Risika decides to confront her nemesis. In a bloody battle with Aubrey, Risika finally unearths her brother's true fate.

Tangled Hearts
By Patti Bongiorno
One of the hallmarks of the teenage years is the lament, "Why me?" Be it hair, height, weight, or some other issue of the day, the questions is always the same. For a child of adoption, the issue AND the question are always the same -- "Why me?" No matter how bright, popular, or attractive a child of adoption may be, he or she is always haunted by that question. Read this story and you just may find a clue to your own entangled heart.

Eat It Up

We all like recipes! This is the place where authors share a recipe that reminds them of their book. For this issue Heidi R. Kling is sharing a Sea related one

Okay, this is sort of silly but totally related to the book, okay?
Trust me. See below:

Orange Popsicles

These are related to Sea. Trust me in a big way, okay?
1. So first you find orange juice. Organic, fresh-squeezed is the best. Bright color. Firm packaging. Not from concentrate.
2. Pour juice into six of those Tupperware things.
3. Then stick in a stick. Or a plastic pop-stick thing. Also Tupperware.
4. Freeze.
5. . Wait. Wait. Wait. (Hours go bye. Maybe days.)
6. Done!
7. Rinse under cold water. Yank. Yes, I know it's stuck. Pull harder. There you go.

Don't get your tongue stuck on the ice, cuz I've done it and it hurts.
It's stuck isn't it? Okay, stick your mouth under the water. Better? Okay.
Now lick.
Is it sweet and sour at the same time? Do you taste sun rays and longing
and everything good about summer?
Then you've tasted one of Spider and Sienna's orange popsicles!
Enjoy the Haze.*

*Yes, I know that makes NO sense. You'll have to read the book to find out
what it means.
Happy Holidaze!

Stay tuned for Part Three!!

Holiday Newsletter Part One

2009-12-22T07:03:00.000-08:00

The Happenings at Young Adult blogs...

Contests

*Many books are being given away here.
*Win one of six books here.
*Thirteen Wicked Days of Christmas here.
*Many books here.
*Lara Adrian contest here.

We're Reading:

*Ashley is reading Just One Wish by Janette Rallison
*Laina is reading another random, tacky romance :)

*Liyana is reading Violet Wings by Victoria Hanley
*By the Book just finished Play Me by Laura Ruby

*Shannon is reading Betrayed by P. C. Cast and Kristin Cast
*First Daughter is reading Hummingbirds by Joshua Gaylord

*Lauren is reading Twenty Boy Summer by Sarah Ockler
*Jessica is reading Girl in the Arena by Lise Haines

*Jenn is reading Ballad by Maggie Stiefvater
*Katie is reading Betrayals by Lili St. Crow

*Smart Girls is reading Pursuit of Love by Nancy Mitford
*Kim is reading Fallen by Lauren Kate

*Jez is reading LIAR by Justine Larbalestier
*Ryan is reading Infinite Jest by David Foster Wallace

*Melanie is reading Beautiful Creatures by Kami Garcia and Margaret Stohl

New Releases

Blood Ninja - Nick Lake (1)

Beautiful Creatures - Kami Garcia and Margaret Stohl (1)

Fallen - Lauren Kate (8)
The Pillow Book of Lotus Lowenstein - Libby Schmais (8)
Darklight - Lesley Livingston (22)

VIP Lounge - Ed Decker (22)
Of All the Stupid Things - Alexandra Diaz (22)

The Dark Divine - Bree Despain (22)

Scones and Sensibility - Lindsay Eland (22)
Magic Under Glass - Laclyn Dolamore (22)
Stupid Cupid - Rhonda Stapleton (22)
Wanderlust - Lucy Silag (24)
My Soul To Save - Rachel Vincent (29)

Tangled - Carolyn Mackler (29)

Stay tuned for part two!

Quick question!!

2009-11-29T14:51:00.001-08:00

When you get the newsletter, can you guys all see the backgrounds?

Also, we are looking for more people to help out with the newsletter, especially since the holiday edition is going to be huge!

That's all!
Peace and cookies,
Laina

Update and some special stuff!!

2009-11-28T16:49:00.000-08:00

Many of you have already gotten an email about this, but in case you haven't, here's what's going on in the newsletter.

As Ashley has recently started going to a physical high school instead of online high school, she has less time now, but I'm helping her out with the newsletter now! (I'm Laina for any of you who don't know me.) I'm helping her organize things and making sure things get to her, so if you can't reach Ash, you can always email me at Laina1312@gmail.com. We're looking for more people to help out, so if you want to, you can email me or Ash at princessashley9@gmail.com.

Now, the special stuff is that we are doing a massive, special holiday edition of the newsletter! I've added a holiday playlist to the sidebar over there --> for atmosphere. ;) So we want to know what you guys would like to see in a holiday newsletter and if any of you want to help out for just that issue, you can do that, too!

Last, even if you don't want to do anything else, you can help out by doing this quick little questionnaire.

1. What book would you buy someone who is 3-6 years old?
2. 7-9?
3. 10-12?
4. 13-15?
5. 16+?
6. What 3 books are on your holiday wishlist this year?

Okay, I think that's everything for now! Hope to hear from you guys soon! Comment, comment, comment with your answers!

Peace and cookies,
Laina

Newsletter 10 Part 2

2009-11-24T08:08:00.000-08:00

By Reyna
http://www.booksforteensreviews.blogspot.com/

Schools out, the weather’s warming up and we are digging out our swimsuits, however, the lazy days of summer aren’t complete without a good book, right? Take a look at these books and then head on over to the library or Barnes and Noble so that you will have a great beach read!

“Summer Boys” by Hailey Abbot

“Starlet” by Randi Resifeld

“Mermaid Park” by Beth Mayall

“Sea Change” by Aimee Friedman

“20 Boy Summer” by Sarah Ockler

“Seven Tears Into the Sea” by Terri Farley

And for the rainy days...

“Love You, Hate You, Miss You” by Elizabeth Scott

Put together by Reyna

Vania from “Reverie Book Reviews” took a few moments to let me interview her! She has been blogging for 5 months now and is a great at it! Vania is a terrific photographer and every week posts amazing book covers that she has created! She has also started making bookmarks, postcards, and other swag for authors that are looking to distribute swag to readers. You should be sure to check out Vania’s blog and if you aren’t already, follow!

Vania’s blog: http://reveriemedia.blogspot.com/

Q: Why did you decide to start a young adult book blog? What have you gained from blogging? Why did you decide to start a young adult book blog? What have you gained from blogging?

A: I started blogging because it gave me a way to express my thoughts about the books I've read. I was always giving recommendations to friends but many weren't into discussing books. It seemed a one way street. So as a result of blogging I have gained that which I was missing friends who loved books and loved talking about them.

Q: What types of books to you enjoy reading the most and why?

A: I mostly enjoy reading paranormal and fantasy. I love that fantasy can transport you into into a completely different world. That takes some major writing chops. But that's not to say i don't like to read realistic fiction. I do. It's just harder because most of the material tends to be too fluffy or too depressing. I don't want to be crying or sad and low after a long and depressing day at work. You know?

Q: What is your favorite book? Why do you like it so much?

A: That is a REALLY tough question. I don't know if I can honestly answer it. What I will say is that there are three books that are coming up (among others) that I am excited about and people should look into them; those are "Eyes Like Stars", "Prophecy of the Sisters" and "Beautiful Creatures" ok wait here's a few more "Fairy Tale" and "Shiver" OMG... I can keep going. I'll stop now.

Q: What is one thing that you really like to see in a book?

A: I am a huge sucker for romance. I love to see it even glimpses of it in a story. I just can't get enough. Really!

Q: Since you like romance so much, are there any YA romance books that you would suggest?

A: Graceling and Beautiful Creatures are my two fave paranormal romance faves. There are SO many and each book’s has a glimpse of it in there that really I cannot mention them all!

Q: Do you have any special quirks about you?

A: Hmmmm I giggle a lot. And can easily get hyper and ridiculous. Like drunk type but minus the alcohol. I also make silly sound effects. I don't think they are very accurate but fun nonetheless.

Q: What is your favorite color?

A: Depends on the day and time. Most of the time I like aqua or purple. Black too!

Q: Do you hope to become an author someday?

A: I haven't really given it much thought. I write very little only because I don't have time but I enjoy reading more, I think. I am also really involved with my art to try and venture out. But who knows...?

By Reyna
http://www.booksforteensreviews.blogspot.com/
If you're reading this newsletter, you probably like to read, right? I know that I do! And a lot of times we will have special spots where we like to curl up and read a book whether it's lying on the beach, sitting under (or in) a tree, or any other neat place that you tend to find yourself migrating to with a good book! We want to know what YOUR favorite spot to read in is!

Send your response to: booksforteens@yahoo.com and a few of the responses will be featured in the next newsletter!

Newsletter 10 Part 1

2009-11-23T08:00:00.000-08:00

The Happenings at Young Adult blogs…

If you know someone who would like to receive this have them email Ashley at princessashley9@gmail.com

~ If you can guess what one of the two pictures below is you win half a page to advertise your blog! They contain two book covers. Name both via email, to princessashley9@gmail.com. 2 winners. First come. First serve. J

(Photo not available.)

Giving It Away For Free
(the only time Momma would approve)
Serena Robar is giving it away for free the entire month of June. That’s right. A book a day, every day in honor of her latest book release Giving Up the V. All you have to do to is sign up for her newsletter and you are entered to win. Enter once and you are in the running to win a book every day the entire month of June.

The name is Renee, and I'd like to welcome you to The Book Girl Reviews! On this site you will be sure to find reviews of many YA novels, some adult ones, interviews with the wonderful authors, and contests on special occasions. We may even throw in a guest review or some other fun things, just to keep you on your toes (:-p). Everyone is welcome to come join in on the sites fun; Share feedback, thoughts, book recommendations, opinions, and more! Disagree with something? Even better! We're all about having opinions from multiple angles; it gives readers a better idea of what to expect from a book.

As for the reviews, we have a strict policy: Don't Diss The Book. We are firm believers in the fact that our opinion is not the only one out there, and that a review can very easily make or break a book. Sadly, we have yet to earn our Book Goddess badges, so for now we're sticking to this: Sure, we'll mention the things we didn't like, but you'll hear a lot more about the things we did. We want YOU to be the judge of the books quality; We're just here to get you to read it a little sooner ;-).

Intrigued? We hope so! If you want to see all of this in action, head on over to http://thebookgirlreviews.blogspot.com/. Hope you like what you see!

~

Basically, my blog revolves around the YA literature world. I love interacting with other book bloggers like me, and getting to know their purpose in blogging as well. My blog isn't about getting the free books, or the exclusive ARCS, even though it is kind of fun to brag about. :D But it's about giving out my opinion without being judged, and telling about the books I read. I also love to get involved in challenges, and getting to see where everyone else is in a challenge, is amazing too.

I've made many friends through blogging, and I love being able to talk to someone about books, or their favorite authors, or just asking them how their week went. By the end of the day, I'm glad I had started up my blog, because it has left me knew experiences, and opportunities than before. I don't know where I'd be right now without my blog, my books, and the people I have befriended that made it all happen.

-Amanda reviewabook123.blogspot.com

UK Book: Blood Water by Dean Vincent Carter

From Amazon: They're all dead now. I am the last one. Dr Morrow can't identify the 'thing' he found living in the lake but he knows it's dangerous ...then it goes missing ...Caught in the flood that is devastating the town, brothers Sean and James stumble across Morrow and the carnage left at his lab. The missing specimen is some kind of deadly parasite that moves from person to person, destroying its hosts in disgusting, gory ways. The death toll will rise along with the waters unless the brothers can track down the homicidal specimen and find a way to destroy it.

Blood Water is such a fun book! It's horror and sci-fi all rolled into one, and is a fast, thrilling read. Plus, it has got a brilliant cover!

New & Upcoming UK Releases:

~ Killing God by Kevin Brooks (June 25th)
~ Love, Aubrey by Suzanne LaFleur (June 25th)
~ That Summer by Sarah Dessen (July 2nd)
~ WAGs World: Knowing the Score by Anonymous (July 2nd)
~ Selina Penaluna by Jan Page (July 2nd)
~ The Thornthwaite Inheritance by Gareth P. Jones (July 6th)
~ What I Saw and How I Lied by Judy Blundell (July 6th)
~ Kiss of Life by Daniel Waters (July 6th)
~ Everlost by Neal Shusterman (July 6th)
~ Revolver by Marcus Sedgwick (July 16th)

~

~ Ashley is reading Pure.
~ Me/Lisette/robin_titan/T.V and Book Addict w/e you wanna call me- Ghostgirl by Tonya Hurley and The Strain by Guillermo del Toro and Chuck Hogan
~ Liyana is reading Eyes Like Stars by lisa Mantchev.
~ prophecygirl is reading The Red Necklace by Sally Gardner.
~ Silvia is reading Swoon by Nina Malkin
~ Donna is reading The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins
~ (: Isa :) is reading Ghostgirl: Homecoming by Tonya Hurley.
~ Diana Dang is reading Death by Bikini by Linda Gerber (re-read and it's still pretty good the second time around!) and Hush by Donna Jo Napoli.
~ katie says - I am reading Skin Trade by Laurell K Hamilton and I'm not liking it so much. It's kind of weird. I plan on starting You Are Here by Jennifer E Smith soon!
~ !!!!Jackie!!!! is reading Ghostgirl by Tonya Hurley.

~

~ L.A. Candy by Lauren Conrad (6/16)
~ Fairy Tale by Cyn Balog (6/23)
~ Alyzon Whitestarr by Isobelle Carmody (June 23)
~ Just Another Hero by Sharon M. Draper (June 23)
~ Fabulous Terrible, The Adventures of You: The Apocryphon by Sophie Talbot (6/25)
~ Tales of the Madman Underground: A Historical Romance, 1973 by John Barnes (June 25)
~ Killer by Sara Shepard (July 1)-Pretty Little Liars series
~ Hancock Park by Isabel Kaplan (July 1)
~ The Stolen One by Suzanne Carlisle Crowley (July 1)
~ Homecoming: ghostgirl by Tonya Hurely (7/1)
~ The Importance of Wings by Robin Friedman (7/1)
~ Crash Into Me by Albert Borris (July 7)
~ Eyes Like Stars by Lisa Mantchev (July 7)
~ Blue Moon by Alyson Noel (July 7)
~ Simply Irresistible by Jennifer Banash (July 7)
~ Libyrinth by Pearl North (July 7)

Blog Tips:

~ Don't have too many ads all over the place, it's okay to have some since the money goes towards books or blog related stuff, but don't overcrowd your blog with them because it distracts from the content. –From Lisette

~ Try to post often otherwise you will most likely lose some readers. I've seen this happen in some blogs so ...update! :). –From Lisette

~ I would recommend making sure to proofread every post. Often we get really excited when sharing our opinions about books we love or did not love so much, that we forget to check for spelling and grammatical errors. A good way to resolve this is to type your review as a word document and complete a quick grammar check. Then cut and paste the post on your blog. –From Shalonda

~ Make sure your personality is reflected on your blog. You can go about this several different ways. Use a background and colors that you love. Also make sure your words show who you are. For example, if you are a naturally funny person, it's okay to use humor in your posts. –From Shalonda

~ I think the look of a blog says a lot about the blog, itself but also the person behind the blog. When someone visits your blog what is the first thing they see? Your blog’s design. It’s kind of like a first impression in that way. Sometimes when people don’t put a lot of effort into the way their blog looks it makes me think that they don’t put a lot of effort into the blog and whatever they do on their blog. It takes only a couple of hours out of your day but it looks good for so much longer. –From Kelsey

Our JJ interviewed Jonathan Berstien. Here is what he had to say:

1. How did you come up with the idea for Hottie?

It actually started life as a screenplay. A lot of movies, bad ones especially, come into being because of writers thinking things like `What if we took the kids from High School Musical and put them in a Halloween sequel?' In my case, it was, "What if I took the girl from Legally Blonde and put her in a superhero movie?" Nothing much happened with the script but I remained fond of the idea and the character. Although fiction was something I never thought I'd have the skills or endurance to attempt, I decided to give it a shot a couple of years ago. Thus, Hottie was salvaged from my teetering pile of good ideas and expanded into book format.

2. What was the hardest thing about writing?

Oh My God. Everything. Starting. Ignoring distractions. Fighting the temptation to do anything other than remain focussed on the computer screen. Ignoring the self-doubt that never goes away. Resisting the urge to quit. And that's just the first ten minutes...

3. Why did you choose the YA audience for your first book?

It's a book about a teenage superhero who shoots flames from her fingers and it's packed with pop culture references, poop-based humor, love triangles, destruction of designer clothes and high-school backstabbing. What other audience couid I aim for?

4. Do you have any kind of playlist while writing that helps you think?

The iPod is always set to Shuffle. Doesn't matter what's playing-- although loud, mindless electro-pop gets the job done-- as long as there's something pounding away in the background.

5. Could you put a theme song to any of your writings?

Ha! In my blog--jonathanbernsteinbook.blogspot.com-- I featured a bunch of heat-based songs that could function as an imaginary Hottie soundtrack. The one song I had in mind as the theme tune to a Hottie movie would be Back Of The Van by Ladyhawke.

6. Are you interested in writing more YA books?

Sure. Hottie 2: Burning Ambition (title subject to change) will be out next spring. I'm currently in the middle of a new, non-superhero book, that's still YA, still--hopefully--funny and which, frankly, is kicking my ass right now.

7. What kind of books did you read growing up?

Steven King. Clive Barker. I had a lot of pent-up hostility.

Newsletter 9 Part 2

2009-11-22T08:51:00.000-08:00

(Photo not available.)

Sarah Dessen wins best teen romance books!

Blogging Tips:

~ Make friends with other bloggers. We really are one big support group.
~ Review honestly but do not be nasty. If you don’t like a book just say so. There is no need for degrading comments.

Here is what Vivian Marie Aubin du Paris had to say. Thanks J.F. for the awesome interview.

1. When did you start writing? Did you start with a book or a short story?

I actually started telling stories before I could write. I "borrowed" my sister's tape recorder, and when I would get stuck in my room to clean it, I would walk around cleaning with the record button pressed on my bed so that I could tell it stories. (Probably thankfully, those tapes are long lost!) The first story I actually wrote, though, was about a paragraph long, I must have been in kindergarten or so from the handwriting, and it was about two kids going roller skating. My stories got progressively longer from there, but it was hard... I had to keep setting new goals for myself. "This one will be ten pages." Then, "This one will be thirty." Until I finally got to a point where I was writing full-length novels.

2. Were you good at english in school? Was that your favorite subject?

I probably shouldn't admit this... I was terrible in school! English was really the only subject that I was good at, because I always loved reading the assigned books. I think I was the only one in class that did. I loved reading these books that I wouldn't have thought to pick up on my own, and then hearing different interpretations of them. It was by far my favorite subject.

3. One of the main things you tell people is never give up on their dreams. You made two of yours come true. What would you tell the people that can't make their dreams work?

This is such a hard question to answer... I think if someone told me that they couldn't make their dream come true, I would ask why. I don't think of myself as a huge problem-solver, but I guess in a way I am. Now, if someone said they wanted to have super powers or something, I wouldn't suggest that they go roll around in toxic waste or anything, but I would try to come up with something that would meet their need... Maybe reading about super heroes? Telling stories about them? Other than something we're physically incapable of doing, I think people really can do anything. If you had asked me five years ago if I would ever be published, I would have told you there was no way. Ever. It was just a dream. But here I am. And I'm the laziest person alive, so if I can do it, anyone can. So if you really think you can't do something, ask someone for some advice or their opinion on the matter. Keep asking until someone gives you something you can work with. Different people with different ideas will eventually lead you to an answer.

4. In your book 'The Quest Of Dai: The Eroe' the character, Westly, really stands out in both attitude and looks. Is he modeled after anyone you know?

Not at all, actually... Westly is a character type that fascinates me... The stereotypical cold-but-secretly-loves-the-girl guy. I read a lot, so I think he kind of developed from a bunch of different characters... Different parts of their personalities that I liked. His eyes were based on someone I knew at the time, though. He had these blue-green contacts that he wore, and every time he looked at you, it was shocking. I didn't actually make that part up, surprisingly enough. I will say that I'm a big fan of Terminator: The Sarah Connor Chronicles, and the actor, Thomas Dekker, looks almost exactly like I pictured Westly. So that was pretty cool to see!

5. Are any of your characters modeled after people you know?

Not really! I know they say, "Write what you know," but I actually find that's the hardest thing to write about. I like to dream when I write, so I write about things I don't know--people I don't know. Dai was loosely based on a friend of mine from high school... She was the sweetest, most caring person. Super innocent, in a lovely clueless kind of way. You couldn't help but love and adore her. She was a great, great friend. But for the most part, the characters really took on a life of their own.

6. What advice would you give to teens that are starting to write they're own books?

Write what you like. It's good to push yourself into trying to write a genre that you don't read or don't have an interest in, but you won't be as in to it and therefore you'll be less likely to finish. Figure out your strengths in writing, play to those, and learn how to fix your weaknesses. Learn how to use criticism to your advantage! I refused to listen to criticism about my writing for most of my life, and it really suffered because of it. I'm still trying to get to a good point where I'm taking criticism about my writing and trying to figure out how to fix it. But also remember that you can't please everybody... Be sure that you stay true to yourself and that you write what you like. Set goals for yourself... Ten pages a day or whatever until you finish the manuscript. Don't go back and read from the beginning while a work is in-progress... If you're anything like me, if you do, you'll completely ruin your rhythm and you'll never finish the book. If you continually get writer's block or you find yourself making excuses to not write (and I'm as guilty of this as they come) every time you walk away from your work, make sure that you leave it in the middle of an exciting scene. You'll always want to come back and finish, and you'll still be on a roll.

Wow, I talk a lot...

Thanks so much for the interview! I really enjoyed your questions. :)

Newsletter 9 Part One

2009-11-21T19:00:00.000-08:00

The Happenings at Young Adult blogs…

If you know someone who would like to receive this have them email Ashley at princessashley9@gmail.com

~ Ashley is putting it all together.

Win all of Erin Downing's Books via Reviewer X

Ends June 10. Enter here.

Win Catching Fire by Suzanne Collins via Reviewer X

Ends ??? Enter here.

Win 20 Boy Summer via TruBlu93

Ends June 14. Enter here.

Win One Lonely Degree by C.K. Kelly Martin via Lauren's Crammed Bookshelf

Ends June 19. Enter here.

Win a Royal Pains Summer Tote via Shooting Stars Mag

Ends June 22. Enter here.

Win 20 Boy Summer via And Another Book Read

Ends June 30. Enter here.

~ If you can guess what one of the two pictures below is you win half a page to advertise your blog! They contain two book covers. Name both via email, to princessashley9@gmail.com. 2 winners. First come. First serve. J

(Pictures not available at this time.)

UK Book: Breathing Underwater by Julia Green

From Amazon: Freya has come to visit her grandparents who live on a remote island. Last year she visited them with her brother - but last year her brother died alone in a boating accident. Whilst back on the island, Freya finds a way, with the calming presence of her grandparents and the gentle care and attention of the people around her, to adjust to the fact that her brother has gone, and that life - and love - are still vibrantly in the air.

I absolutely loved this book! It's a brilliant story of loss and grief, and includes a range of instantly likeable characters. The settings are all richly described in detail, and the conclusion is filled with hope and the acceptance that life has to go on.

New, Upcoming and Recently Released in the UK

Fragile Eternity by Melissa Marr (May 28th)
The Demon's Lexicon by Sarah Rees Brennan (June 1st)
Devil's Rock by Chris Speyer (June 1st)
Sprout by Dale Peck (June 1st)
Blood Water by Dean Vincent Carter (June 4th)
The Reformed Vampire Support Group by Catherine Jinks (June 4th)

~ Ashley is reading Breathing

~ Slept Away by Julie Kraut (5/26)
~ Love You Hate You Miss You by Elizabeth Scott (5/26)
~ Hunger: A Gone Novel by Michael Grant (5/26)

~ Gorgeous by Rachel Vail (5/26)
~ Sea Change by Aimee Friedman (June 1)
~ Twenty Boy Summer by Sarah Ockler (June 1)

~ Once Dead, Twice Shy by Kim Harrison (June 1)

~ Entr@pment: A High School Comedy by Micheal Spooner (June 2)
~ Elyon by Ted Dekker (June 2)
~ The Demon's Lexicon by Sarah Rees Brennan(June 2)

~ Lunatic by Ted Dekker(June 2)
~ It's Not You, It's Me by Terra Cohen Hoffmann(June 9)
~ Tempo Change by Barbara Hall (June 9)

~ The Year of the Bomb by Ronald Kidd (June 9)
~ Goddess Boot Camp by Terra Lynn Childs (June 11)
~ Prada & Prejudice by Amanda Hubbard (June 11)

~ The Orange Houses by Paul Griffin (June 11)
~ L.A Candy by Lauren Conrad(June 16)

Newsletter 8 Part Two

2009-09-08T15:39:00.000-07:00

New and Coming Soon in the UK:

The Resistance by Gemma Malley (4th May)
Warriors of Ethandun by N. M. Browne (4th May)
If I Stay by Gayle Forman (7th May)
Devil's Kiss by Sarwat Chadda (7th May)
Envy by Anna Godbersen (7th May)
My Dating Disasters Diary by Liz Rettig (7th May)

What everyone is reading:

Ashley is reading Dreamland by Sarah Dessen.
Kate is reading Extreme Kissing by Luisa Plaja
Polo Pony is reading The Off Season
PG is reading Stolen
PM is reading Kissed by an Angel.
Hope is reading The Beef Princess of Practical Country by Michelle Houts
Bookworm is reading S.A.S.S.: The great call of china
Donna is reading Stake That!
Book Resort is reading Going too Far
Maggie is reading Maggie's Story by Dandi Daley Mackall
Laina is not reading much right now

New and upcoming releases:

A Kiss In Time by Alex Flinn (4/28)
Sloane Sisters by Anna Carey (4/28)
The Reluctant Heiress by Eva Iboston (4/30)
Sleepaway Girls by Jen Calonita (5/1)
The Plague- Joanne Dahme (May 4th)
The Awakening: Ghost Hunteress by Marley Gibson (5/4)
Dark Guardian No. 2: Full Moon- Rachel Hawthorne (May 5th)
Wings by Aprilynne Pike (May 5th)
Lovestruck Summer by Melissa Walker (May 5th)
Girlfriend Material- Melissa Kantor (May 5th)
The Visibles by Sara Shepard (May 5th)
Being Nikki by Meg Cabot (5/5)
The Immortal Realm by Frewin Jones (5/5)
Shrinking Violet by Danielle Joesph (5/5)
So Not Happening by Jenny B. Jones (5/5)
Kiss of Life- Dan Waters (May 12th)
Strange Angels by Lili St. Crow (May 14th)
A Match Made in High School by Kristin Walker (May 14th)
Academy 7 by Anne Osterlund (May 14th)
Waiting For You- Susane Colasanti (May 14th)
The Vast Fields of Ordinary- Nick Burd (May 14th)
Swoon- Nina Malkin (May 19th)
You Are Here- Jennifer E Smith (May 19th)
Vampire Kisses No.6: Royal Blood- Ellen Schreiber (May 19th)
Love you Hate you Miss you- Elizabeth Scott (May 26th)
One Lonely Degree- CK Kelly Martin (May 26th)

Blog Tips:

Make sure you keep authors happy. If you promise a review then get it done. Free books are free to you. The author still has to pay and/or makes no money from it.
Don’t request ARC’s until your blog is well developed. You’ll make yourself some enemies.

Melissa Walker stopped by to tell us a little bit about her new book, Lovestruck Summer.

"When I started writing LOVESTRUCK SUMMER, I knew I was going to need a ton of random, fictional band names to use in the book. I couldn't think of them all on my own, so I asked my blog readers to weigh in, and they came up with GREAT stuff! I used dozens of these fake band names in the book, and I'm so grateful. Look for them if you get a chance to read LOVESTRUCK SUMMER!" –Melissa

Newsletter 8 Part One

2009-09-07T15:35:00.000-07:00

If you know someone who would like to receive this have them email Ashley at princessashley9@gmail.com

Hi, everyone! My name is Maggie: obsessive reader, writer, and creator of BeanBagBooks.

I primarily read and review from the YA genre, but occasionally from Adult. My reviews are quite honest--I don't sugar-coat things. If I don't enjoy a book, then I'll tell you, and vice versa. Along with reviews, I am a member of Waiting on Wednesday, where I preview a book that is yet to be released.

I also have a second blog, called Musings of a Fledgling Writer. There, I post about the various thoughts that circle through my head in a given day. It's kind of random, but a fun place to escape to.

So, hopefully you readers will check out my blogs and enjoy them. Happy Reading!

Hey I'm Jill from Reading is Bliss where I review any and all YA fiction I can get my hands on. I started this blog in January and I love it more and more every day. I love books and I love to speak my opinion which makes reviewing books sort of a must for me. I participate in IMM and try to update as frequently as I can. I also host contests, guest blogs, and interviews. My reviews are always honest while still bringing out the best points with the worst in every book I review. My favorite part of blogging is being involved in such a wonderful and welcoming book blog community made up of people just like you. Thanks for being so amazing! And be sure to check out my blog Reading is Bliss. Thanks!

Stolen by Lucy Christopher

From the author's website: Gemma, a British city-living teenager, is kidnapped while on holiday with her parents. Her kidnapper, Ty, takes her to the wild land of outback Australia. To Gemma’s city-eyes, the landscape is harsh and unforgiving and there are no other signs of human life for hundreds of kilometres in every direction. Here, there is no escape. Gemma must learn to deal with her predicament, or die trying to fight it.

Stolen is a brilliant book, and is one that I think will appeal to a wide range of readers. It's shocking and, at times, difficult to read. It explores obsession, love, and the boundaries that lie between each. It's only published in the UK at the moment, but if you can get hold of a copy, I'd highly recommend it!

Newsletter 7 Part Three

2009-09-05T13:46:00.000-07:00

Stephanie’s interview with Yan

1. Why did you start blogging?

Yan: Have you seen me rant? Blogging is an excellent method to vent out your inner frustration. That and I happen to like…ranting. Wow I am truly pathetic.

2. Why did you choose YA as your main focus?

Yan: -looks down at self- I think that is self-explanatory. But really though I was never a huge reader when I was younger. I read the occasional school books but nothing else. It was only during the 8th grade when Scholastic gave the school some free bookcases filled with new releases that I read my first outside of school book. The first book I ever picked up was The Thief Lord by Cornelia Funke. Truly amazing! Then my friend handed me Artemis Fowl as soon as she was done. Addiction! Then of course I stopped reading when school was over. –Sad Yan- 3 months later in high school. More school reading. Then came…Twilight! Granted I started to pick up some other books before that from the library while doing some volunteer work [requirement for school]. Reading Meg Cabot, Sarah Dessen, other not as popular YA authors. But Twilight was the craze! It was everywhere at school. People were talking; books were passed around, so I borrowed a copy[from the library]. Then I went crazy from there—borrowing 10 books each week, reading after school, in school, on the weekends. Nowadays I am not a frequent visitor to my library but I just stay home and tackle my piles. I still go to the library now and then.

Wait. Did I even answer the question? I don’t think I did, did I? Okay so here’s the deal, the down low. I am a huge sucker cliché plotlines and pretty covers. YA books so far have the best covers. I am a teen myself so I can pretty much relate to most topics.

3. What's your favorite thing about blogging?

Yan: …I like comments? …Yes that is true. Talking to authors, coming up with these most outlandish ideas ever! [see April Fools week. The evil baby as a result of my and Carol’s tender nurturing…okay so I happened to smack its head a few times and dropped it down the stairs but a few dusting and it’s good!] Talking to fellow bloggers, stalking fellow bloggers, pestering fellow bloggers, etc…

4. How did you gain more traffic to your site?

Yan: Easy. You wave a very shiny ARC in front of other YA bloggers. You lead them into a cage with your said shiny ARC. Then close it and lock it. If the competition is “unavailable” then you are the only one left. So that means you get the traffic. Problem solve. Key word is spread the word that you exist. Comment on other blogs, host giveaways or interviews, POST REVIEWS. If you mainly post about contests, like who’s giving away what, then many of us will not take you seriously. It might draw in some people but they will not stay long. Do not call yourself a “reviewer” if you do not review, and no, one or two reviews does not count. Basically befriend someone. I started out by just emailing people [Sharon and Carol!] and joined social networks and it escalated from there.

5. What are some advices you can give to fellow Bloggers?

Yan: Do not start your blog when you are in high school and a junior. This was the most awful decision I have ever made. Think about it, ACT, SAT, AP exams, evil teachers!, idiotic classmates! A social life, which I am sad to say has quite plummeted a bit [just don’t tell my friends that or they’ll drag me out of my house kicking and screaming]. I knew I should have started this when I was a sophomore…BE NICE! No one likes a snobby, greedy bastard, so good things will be awarded through good work. It will all work out if you are in it for the long haul.

Author guest blog:

Today we have the amazing Janette Rallison, author of Just One Wish, visiting us.

Enjoy!
_____________________________________

I admit that in a lot of ways my latest book, Just One Wish, is writing the story teens wish could happen—a girl goes to Hollywood to find a hot actor (Think Orlando Bloom, Robert Pattinson, or insert your own idol) to convince him to visit her sick brother before his surgery. I will not give away the plot, but I will say: romance follows.

I would have loved to do this (not the sick brother part, but the hot TV star part) when I was a teenager. I had a huge crush on Richard Hatch, the original Apollo in Battlestar Gallactica. I could wax nostalgic for quite a while about Richard Hatch, but I will spare you. Sigh . . . *Janette suddenly gets all dreamy* . . . Where was I again? Oh yes, writing the book Just One Wish.

The reviews for this book have been good, but a few of them have said in a dismissive manner, "Of course the idea that a girl could go to Hollywood, find the hot teen movie star, and have him fall for her is completely unbelievable."

Which always gives me pause for thought. Which part, I wonder is the most unbelievable--that she finds him or that he falls for her?

I actually researched this book by talking to a woman who used to be Harrison Ford's assistant. (She is now the assistant to another hot celebrity. What a cool job that would be! How come the career counselors in high school never mentioned this as a possibility?)

Did people sneak onto the sets? Oh yes. And she had some interesting stories about that too. Was it as easy as I made it sound in my book? Easier, actually. I made the main characters in my story have to work and rely on a bit of luck to get in, but that was because a) it made for a more suspenseful story and b) I didn't want to tell would be star-stalkers the easy way to sneak onto sets. It just didn't seem like I should be encouraging that sort of behavior.

Do movie stars ever fall for normal people? That we doubt this, says something about our society, don't you think? We somehow believe deep down that stars are not real people. They do not put their pants on one leg at a time, but simply stand in their room and wait for fairies to zap designer clothes onto their bodies.

I haven't done a survey but I imagine for every Brad and Angelina couple in Hollywood, there are famous people paired with normal people. For a while George Clooney's girlfriend was a woman he met when she waited on his table. Jonny Carson married a woman who he met walking on the beach--and by the way, she found out where he lived and purposely walked on the beach by his house in hopes of meeting him.

So go ahead and be cynical. I’m a romantic at heart and I think it’s all believable.

-Janette Rallison

http://www.janetterallison.com/
http://janette-rallison.blogspot.com/

Thanks to Jill for arranging this!

Newsletter 7 Part Two

2009-09-04T13:41:00.000-07:00

Check out Garden of Books For Teens!

“Spring Breakup” by Stephanie Hale

Who would have thought that a nice, planned to be relaxing, spring vacation to Las Vegas could turn out so…well, bad. That’s what happens to Aspen in “Spring Breakup!” It all starts on the plain ride there when the airport loses her sparkly purple suitcase, now she hardly has any clothes. Soon enough though things go downhill when she gets food poisoning and Mrs. Illinois goes missing, and Aspen takes over her beauty pageant roll! Will Aspen be able to work out her troubles and still have a good time with her boyfriend and friends? Find out by reading “Spring Breakup” by Stephanie Hale!

“Willow” By Julie Hodan

When Willow’s parents die in a car accident while she is driving, her life shifts to a new degree of pain and sorrow. She cuts herself as an escape. However, when a boy discovers her secret and promises not to tell anyone, will more than just a helpful person come into the story? Or will Willow see a whole new path that she can take? Find out by reading “Willow!”

“Parties and Potions” by Sarah Mlynowski

Rachel and her sister Miri are teenage witches, living in a non witch world! They have to face the challenges of keeping their witch world a secret, or should they? They have to face that important question, she they tell their own Father? Should Rachel tell her best friend and her boyfriend? Can she really keep making excuses as to were she is? Rachel and Miri are living busy lives between preparing for the samsorta, going to witch and real school, and juggling their witch and non witch worl! Will they be able to do it?

“The Princess Plot” Review

Release date: May 1st, 2009

By Kirsten Boie

Jenna won a chance to be one of the starring roles in an upcoming movie about a princess! However, soon it seems like something might be wrong. She seems to resemble the real princess an awful lot and she learns about plans to use Jenna to rule the world, and that’s not for the movie. Will Jenna be able to get herself out of this mess?

Read By Carrie M.

Here's the blurb from the back of the book:

Meredith and Mallory Brynn are mirror twins born on either side of midnight one snowy New Y ear's Eve. They have always been inseparable. But after they are nearly killed in a mysterious fire on their thirteenth birthday, the bond that has always joined them unravels. They begin to have visions and dreams that reveal the deep secrets kept by the people around them. Meredith and Mallory realize they have each been given a gift: Mallory can see deep into the past; Meredith can see the future. But when they discover that one boy is not what they imagined, their lives will be changed forever. If they can survive . . .

Okay, so I have some mixed feelings about this one. I liked it; it kept me reading, but I didn't love it. When I read the first chapter I had high hopes. It had that folk-tale storytelling kind of feel going on and it felt almost like the first time I read Practical Magic by Alice Hoffman. This was no Practical Magic though.

I thought the idea behind the book was very interesting. Twins that see visions, but not the same type of visions. They each see a different side of the same event. It's a very interesting concept and I was intrigued enough to keep reading. I liked the character of the next door neighbor Drew almost more than I liked the girls though. He was much more likable and quite honestly easier to follow.

The book just seemed a little disjointed at times and often I found myself looking back to pick up a thread of the plot or to just try to figure out which twin was talking. It wasn't a bad read by any means, but it wasn't as good as I'd hoped. I'll probably still read the next book in the series just to see where she takes the storyline. Has anyone else read it? What did you think?

Newsletter 7 Part One

2009-09-03T13:28:00.000-07:00

If you know someone who would like to receive this have them email Ashley at princessashley9@gmail.com.

Ashley is putting this all together.
Renee gave us some new releases!
Renee’s Blog J
Carrie M. gave us a book review.
Stephanie W. interviewed Yan!
RM spotlighted books!

Michelle's Reads has fantastic reviews.

UK Book: Numbers by Rachel Ward

From Amazon: Since her mother's death, fifteen-year-old Jem has kept a secret. When her eyes meet someone else's, a number pops into her head - the date on which they will die. Knowing that nothing lasts forever, Jem avoids relationships, but when she meets a boy called Spider, and they plan a day out together, Jem foresees a chain of events that will shatter their lives forever.

Numbers is a brilliant, fast-paced edgy thriller from UK publisher Chicken House. It has an original concept and realistic characters, along with one of the nicest book covers I've ever seen. I'd highly recommend it to fans of Kevin Brooks, who is one of the masters of gritty YA fiction. Also, look for a sequel sometime next year!

-----

New and Upcoming Books in the UK:

Lock & Key by Sarah Dessen (out now)
Wings by Aprilynne Pike (April 30th)
The Poison Garden by Sarah Singleton (May 5th)
Stolen by Lucy Christopher (May 4th)
The Resistance by Gemma Malley (May 4th)

What everyone is reading:

Ashley is reading Isabelle’s Boyfriend.
Carrie is reading City of Ashes.
Polo Pony is reading Lifting the Sky by Mackie D'Argie.
PG is reading Wintergirls.
Brooke is reading Once Dead, Twice Shy by Kim Harrison.
Paper Movies is reading Beautiful Boy.
Stephanie is reading You are so Undead to Me.
Vak is reading Wait Till Helen Comes.

Upcoming/New Releases:

Gentlemen-Michael Northrop (4/15)
Thirteenth Child-Patricia C. Wrede (4/15)
A Map of the Known World -Lisa Ann Sandell (4/15)
Distant Waves: A Novel of the Titanic-Suzanne Weyn (4/15)
Breathing- Cheryl Renee Herbsman on (April 16th)
Star Power: A Talent Novel by Zoey Dean (4/16)
TMI by Sara Quigley (4/16)
Because I Am Furniture-Thalia Chaltas (4/16)
The Reformed Vampire Support Group by Catherine Jinks (April 20th)
Fragile Eternity- Melissa Marr (April 21st)
Bad Girls Don't Die-Katie Alender (4/21)
Why I Fight-J. Adams Oaks (4/21)
A Kiss in Time- Alex Flinn (April 28th)
The Awakening: Darkest Powers 2- Kelley Armstrong (April 28th)
Radiant Darkness by Emily Whitman (April 28th)
Storm Glass- Maria V. Snyder (April 28th)

Blog Tip:

Have a clear purpose with each post. Nobody wants a review mixed with an update, mixed with what to expect.

If you have any advice that you want here…. Email me! Princessashley9@gmail.com

Newsletter Statistics:

We have 84 subscribers via email. We also have many blog subscribers.
14 of 24 people were unable to participate this time. We're getting better again. Yay!
I would love to thank all of you who do such a fabulous job at getting things to me on time!

Comment from a reader: “The newsletter looks great.” ---Cheryl Renee Herbsman

Comment from a reader: “Yay! Great as ALWAYS! <3”--->

Newsletter 6 Part 3

2009-08-31T23:00:00.000-07:00

· Try to stick to a format. When your constantly changing it can get confusing.

· Try to keep flashing backgrounds to a minimum. I prefer to read in peace, with out the headache and seizure those backgrounds can create J

If you have any advice that you want here…. Email me! Princessashley9@gmail.com

Are you looking for a fun, light, and neat book to read this spring? If so, read on for a few books that would suit your appetite this spring!

“Eggs” By Jerry Spinelli

When David’s Mother dies and he has to live with his Grandmother, he decides to not make nice with her, or make any friends. However, when he meets Primrose, a 13 year old girl, they start bonding in a different way than most friends. They bond through teasing, fighting, and spending time with each other. Will David move on? Find out in this nice read!

“Airhead” by Meg Cabot

You might know that Meg Cabot is coming out with “Being Nikki” in May, the second in this series! So, while waiting for that one, read the first in the wonderful series, “Airhead!” This is actually one of my favorite books and I definitely suggest it!

Emerson Watts is a normal girl, not popular, not unpopular, doesn’t dress like a supermodel, and she just accepts who she is. However, her sister is different. She likes clothes, boys, being fashionable, and a special music band. So when this music band is coming to a local store, she convinces Emerson Watts to bring her. So when a TV crashes down on her, Emerson’s life changes forever. What will happen to Emerson Watts? Find out in “Airhead” by Meg Cabot!

“Cindy Ella” by Robin Palmer

Ella is different than most of the girls. One of the biggest things that separate her is the fact that she doesn’t like the prom. She sees it as a big money maker for all of the businesses. So when the letter about her dislike of the prom is published for the first time in the school paper, she becomes more unpopular than ever. While all of this is happening in school, she is IM’ing a boy and it seems as if he is falling in love with her. When he asks her on a date on prom night to meet each other and find out who is who, she excepts. Will he be the boy of her dreams? Or will he be a hairy beast? Find out in “Cindy Ella!”

“The Debs” by Susan McBride

Enter the world of high class teenagers who all are yearning for a place in the Glass Slipper Club. However, all of them face troubles throughout the story, and some of them could prevent them from getting on the prestigious club. Will the three best friends, Laura, Mac, and Ginger make it in, as well as snobby JoLynn? Find out by reading “The Debs” by Susan McBride!

For a chance to win “The Debs” check out this contest!

Garden of Books (For Teens)

Newsletter 6 Part 2

2009-08-30T21:19:00.000-07:00

Young Adult Urban Fantasy Author

Jenine Wilson
Website
LibraryThing Profile
MySpace Profile

THE SHADOW WITHIN

Book Description

Life is never simple...I should know My name is Jessie Connor and I'm a Senior at Leeland High School. Before, things may not have been simple, but they were predictable. The bullies were bullies. My parents, dysfunctional. My best friend, the goth who lived to shock. I learned to deal with them all. Then I met the new student from France, and my life turned upside down. I think he may even be responsible for the totally bizarre deaths that have been happening. I would turn him in, if only I didn't like him so much.

Review

Jessie Connor is a senior, and not a very popular one at that. Reece and Amber are the two that give her the most trouble. They constantly call her names, prevent her from opening her locker when she does go, and basically makes her life at school miserable. Luckily she has one true friend that makes school manageable. Annie and Jessie have been friends since the fifth grade even though they are complete opposites. Where Jessie is plain with untreated brown hair, Annie has a pierced lip and short, spiky, purple hair.

Jessie's uneventful life gets turned upside down when she clumsily falls into the arms of Wesley Peterson. Even though he has attended the school for months, Jessie can't recall ever seeing him. Once she officially meets him she can't take her eyes off of him. She notices he even sits across from her in science class. Eventually, they start eating lunch together and become much closer. The one strange thing she notices about him is that no one seems to remember who he is. Teachers in the classroom don't remember if he was in class and students don't remember him after he has walked away. Jessie is the only one who seems to remember him from day to day.

Once Wesley realizes that Jessie is special, he decides to tell her the truth about himself and introduce her to his brother. It turns out Wesley and his brother Brian are from another dimension. They were sent to Earth by their mother to avoid the dangers of their world. The problem is, some of the danger has followed them to Earth. Jessie, Wesley, and Brian will have to work together in order to survive.

THE SHADOW WITHIN is a real page-turner. Jenine Wilson does a spectacular job writing about high school life. The way she blends fantasy with the real world is done so smoothly that you can almost believe there are good-looking guys from other dimensions walking around on this planet. Once you start reading, you won't be able to put it down--and when you are finished, you'll be asking for more.

MY FAMILIAR

Book Description

16 year old Nikki Blake is looking forward to the end of her Sophmore year, except for a few problems. The Prom Night Car Jacking has made all the parents freakishly overprotective, and there is the slight problem Nikki has had since her birthday being around boys. But, the biggest problem for Nikki is that her best friend, the pragmatic down to earth Robert Weston, is suddenly eating flies and spouting nonsense about her sister's new boyfriend that belongs in a fairy tale novel. Nikki has always trusted Robert, but it seems as though that trust may have been mistakenly placed. And this mistake may be the last one she makes.

Review

Nikki has a good life. She has a supportive group of friends, there are only a couple of days left in the school year, and the guy she has been crushing on forever has just asked her out. Nothing she has ever experienced has prepared her for an encounter with an evil sorcerer or for the knowledge that her best friend, Robert, is involved in, what Nikki can only describe as, a nightmare.

Even though things are going good for Nikki, there are some problems she is dealing with. The biggest and most important problem she has is that any time a person of the opposite sex touches her, even if it is only her little finger, she feels excruciating pain and nausea. This is causing her some concern since she is supposed to be going out with Dale, the object of her longtime crush, to an end-of-the-school-year bash. How can you go to a party where dancing will probably be expected when you can't even touch your date without the fear of getting sick all over him? The second issue she has started dealing with recently is the fact that she's been thinking about Robert, her best friend since seventh grade, in ways that friends don't think of each other. For instance, how good he looks without a shirt on, or the way his hair looks when it sticks up in the

front, or how his sparkling green eyes look so bright. This problem only gets worse when she accidentally touches Robert one day at school and realizes that she doesn't feel pain when he touches her.

Her life gets even more complicated when her older sister, Andrea, invites her new boyfriend over to their house for dinner to meet the family. Alerro is captivating and seems to have a magical way of holding everyone's attention. When dinner is over and he starts to leave after a wonderful evening with the family, he stops to touch everyone briefly on the cheek as a farewell. Nikki was so entranced she couldn't stop him if she wanted to, but once his hand was on her face, she felt a slight tingle, but nothing like the pain that should have been running through her body.

Jenine Wilson tells a wonderful story. Nikki is a believable character that the reader falls in love with right away. MY FAMILIAR has a great balance of reality and fantasy that will appeal to anyone, even if they aren't a huge fantasy fan. Realistic teen issues like dating and social acceptance are intermingled with the larger problem of saving the world from total destruction. MY FAMILIAR wraps up nicely, leaving the reader satisfied with the ending. However, a case could be made for a sequel, but it definitely isn't necessary for the completion of this story.

Newsletter 6 Part 1

2009-08-29T20:48:00.000-07:00

If you know someone who would like to receive this have them email Ashley at princessashley9@gmail. Also looking for a few new workers... A couple spots are open. Same email address.

A Good Book Has No Ending was started by Ashley’s friend McCall.
Romance Sap has cool looking reviews.
Coffee and donuts has a nice feel to it.

Extreme Kissing by Luisa Plaja

From Amazon: Carlota and Bethany are best friends. Bethany is the sensible one with a long-term boyfriend, Carlota is the crazy one with a wild past and rebellious nature. Carlota comes up with a plan to put all their troubles behind them and go on a girls-only wild day out, with only their favourite magazine to guide them through the day. The magazine will take them everywhere they need to go - but will it help them to reveal the secrets they are keeping from each other?

Extreme Kissing is funny, original and realistic, and is a brilliant addition to the ever-growing UK teen fiction library. Luisa Plaja writes books that should appeal to a wide audience, and that are well worth reading. Recommended for fans of Louise Rennison and Liz Rettig.

Coming Soon/Recently Released in the UK:

Flightsend by Linda Newbery (paperback edition, 2nd April)

Queste by Angie Sage (paperback edition, 6th April)

Crossing the Line by Gillian Philip (6th April)

Girl Meets Cake by Susie Day (6th April)

· Band Geeked Out by Josie Bloss (April 1st)

· Willow- Julie Hoban (April 2nd)

· You’ve got Blackmail by Rachel Wright (April 2nd)

· Look Both Ways-Jacquelin Mitchard (April 2)

· Extreme Kissing-Louisa Paja (April 2)

· If I Stay-Gayle Forman (April 2)

· Hottie-Johnathan Bernstein (April 2)

· Cashay-Margaret McMullan (April 6)

· My Big Nose & Other Natural Disasters-Sydney Salter (April 6)

· King of the Screwups-K.L Going (April 6)

· Love on Cue- Katherine Hapka (April 7th)

· The Secret Life of Prince Charming- Deb Caletti (April 7th)

· Carter Finally Gets It-Brent Crawford (April 7)

· Pure-Terra Elan McVoy (April 7)

· Friend Me-Cathy Hopkins (April 7)

· The Beef Princess of Practical County by Michelle Houts (April 14th)

· A Map of the Known World by Lisa Ann Sandell (April 15th)

· Heartbreak River- Tricia Mills (April 16th)

· TMI by Sarah Quigley (April 16th)

· The Reformed Vampire Support Group by Catherine Jinks (April 20th)

· Fragile Eternity- Melissa Marr (April 21st)

· A Kiss in Time- Alex Flinn (April 28th)

· The Awakening: Darkest Powers 2- Kelley Armstrong (April 28th)

· Radiant Darkness by Emily Whitman (April 28th)

· Storm Glass- Maria V. Snyder (April 28th)

Part two to come soon!

Deadline

2009-08-27T19:11:00.000-07:00

Okay, everybody, Ashley told me to tell you that you need to have your stuff in by next Thursday, which is the 3rd of September. An email will go out later, and if you can't participate in this newsletter, you can email me at Laina1312@gmail.com or Ashley at princessashley9@gmail.com or at aannthompson@gmail.com

What Are You Reading? :)

2009-08-26T02:37:00.000-07:00

I, Lisette/T.V and Book Addict/robin_titan (yeah confusing sorry) am currently reading:

David Inside Out by Lee Bantle
Simply Irresistible by Jennifer Banash

Wdebo is c.r:
13 Little Blue Envelopes by Maureen Johnson
Eragon by Christopher Paolini
Bloodhound by Tamora Pierce

Speedreader is c.r:
Libyrinth by Pearl North

Mackenzie is c.r:
Twenty Boy Summer by Sarah Ockler
Devil's Corner by Lisa Scottoline
The Book Thief by Markus Zusak

Orangrful:
Unwind by Neal Shusterman
The Lightning Thief (Percy Jackson and the Olympians, #1) by Rick Riordan
The Lovely Bones by Alice Sebold

Brooke:
Ballads of Suburbia (Paperback)
by Stephanie Kuehnert
Shifter (The Healing Wars, #1)
by Janice Hardy

Letter Garden:
The Stolen One (Hardcover)
by Suzanne Crowley
Violet on the Runway (Paperback)
by Melissa C. Walker
The Eternal Kiss: 13 Vampire Tales of Blood and Desire (Paperback)

you may have noticed I didn't put pics of all the books b/c it takes forever!!

so what are ya'll reading? :D

We're back

2009-08-18T13:33:00.001-07:00

wow, long time no post! But I'm back to working on the newsletter guys! enjoy

New Layout

2009-06-09T14:45:00.000-07:00

Hey, everybody, it's Laina (Hope Ash doesn't mind I'm "stealing" the blog for a couple, lol. I'd ask, but she's offline right now).

I just wanted to sort of announce that YA Blog News has a new looks. What do you all think?

Peace and cookies,
Laina

Win 20 Boy Summer by Sarah Ockler

2009-06-03T17:15:00.000-07:00

Hey Guys, I'm giving away FIVE copies of 20 Boy Summer by Sarah Ockler so head on over to my blog for your chance at winning. (LINK)

**I know A LOT of people are hosting this same contest, but the way I see it, the MORE places/times you enter, the GREATER your chances are of actually winning. so yea, be sure to enter at my blog also. LINK

THANKS!

Newsletter 5 part 2

2009-05-04T13:27:00.000-07:00

We're reading:
• Ashley is reading The Blonde Of the Joke
• PG is reading The Sprite Siters: the Secret of the Towers
• Donna is reading Why We Suck by Dr. Denis Leary
• PP is reading Being Nikki by Meg Cabot
• Laina is reading some random romance novel.
• BT is reading The Forest of Hands and Teeth
• Bookworm finished Parties and Potions
• BG is reading Dust of 100 Dogs by AS Kings and Wintergirls by Laurie Halse Anderson
• RT is reading City of Glass and Apologize, Apologize
• Karin is reading THE AWAKENING by Kelley Armstrong
• Sarah L is reading The Girls of Gettysburg.

New releases:
• Band Geeked Out by Josie Bloss (April 1st)
• Willow- Julie Hoban (April 2nd)
• You’ve got Blackmail by Rachel Wright (April 2nd)
• Look Both Ways-Jacquelin Mitchard (April 2)
• Extreme Kissing-Louisa Paja (April 2)
• If I Stay-Gayle Forman (April 2)
• Hottie-Johnathan Bernstein (April 2)
• Cashay-Margaret McMullan (April 6)
• My Big Nose & Other Natural Disasters-Sydney Salter (April 6)
• King of the Screwups-K.L Going (April 6)
• Love on Cue- Katherine Hapka (April 7th)
• The Secret Life of Prince Charming- Deb Caletti (April 7th)
• Carter Finally Gets It-Brent Crawford (April 7)
• Pure-Terra Elan McVoy (April 7)
• Friend Me-Cathy Hopkins (April 7)
• The Beef Princess of Practical County by Michelle Houts (April 14th)
• A Map of the Known World by Lisa Ann Sandell (April 15th)
• Heartbreak River- Tricia Mills (April 16th)
• TMI by Sarah Quigley (April 16th)
• The Reformed Vampire Support Group by Catherine Jinks (April 20th)
• Fragile Eternity- Melissa Marr (April 21st)
• A Kiss in Time- Alex Flinn (April 28th)
• The Awakening: Darkest Powers 2- Kelley Armstrong (April 28th)
• Radiant Darkness by Emily Whitman (April 28th)
• Storm Glass- Maria V. Snyder (April 28th)

Polls:
The best twilight book award goes to.... Twilight

The best spring break genre.... Romance tied with Fantasy!

Newsletter 5 Part 1

2009-05-02T14:25:00.000-07:00

Who's who:
• Ashley is putting this together.
• Karin gave us little known book spotlights.
• Hope Gave us contests
• Jenny told us what’s new in the UK
• Renee gave us new release info

contests:
• What: One copy of Going Too Far by Jennifer Echols. Ends: Yan doesn't know yet, so go enter now! Link: too far
• What: A copy of Mackenzie, Lost and Found by Deborah Kerbel. Ends: April 4th. Link: found
• What: Carol's random humongous giveaway; really long list, so just go check it out. Ends: April 1st. Link: spring break
• What: A copy of Violet in Private by Melissa Walker Ends: April 6th. Link: violet
• Robin-Titan is giving away The Elite and In Too Deep by Jennifer Banash ends April 3. here

New Blogs:
• http://readingismyantidrug.blogspot.com/ was started by Ashley’s friend McCall.
• http://romancesap.blogspot.com/ has cool looking reviews.
• http://coffeeanddonutslena.blogspot.com/ has a nice feel to it.

UK Books:
Extreme Kissing by Luisa Plaja

From Amazon: Carlota and Bethany are best friends. Bethany is the sensible one with a long-term boyfriend, Carlota is the crazy one with a wild past and rebellious nature. Carlota comes up with a plan to put all their troubles behind them and go on a girls-only wild day out, with only their favourite magazine to guide them through the day. The magazine will take them everywhere they need to go - but will it help them to reveal the secrets they are keeping from each other?

Extreme Kissing is funny, original and realistic, and is a brilliant addition to the ever-growing UK teen fiction library. Luisa Plaja writes books that should appeal to a wide audience, and that are well worth reading. Recommended for fans of Louise Rennison and Liz Rettig.

Coming Soon/Recently Released in the UK:
Flightsend by Linda Newbery (paperback edition, 2nd April)
Queste by Angie Sage (paperback edition, 6th April)
Crossing the Line by Gillian Philip (6th April)
Girl Meets Cake by Susie Day (6th April)

New update again :)

2009-04-22T09:08:00.000-07:00

Hey guys its that time again... :)

1. What are you reading?

2. Favorite young readers series (that you still secretly read or want to read)
A. Boxcar children
B. American Girl
C. Babysitters Club
D. Goosebumps

Thanks guys :)

update...

2009-04-06T20:58:00.000-07:00

I need to know what your reading for the next edition.

Also two new poll questions:

*Best Movie adaption:
Twilight
Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants
SotTP 2
Eragon

*Favorite chick lit author?
Meg Cabot
Judy Blume
Sarah Dessen

Newsletter 4- Part 2

2009-04-06T12:05:00.000-07:00

We're Reading:
• Ashley is reading Giving up the V
• Erica is reading Bad Girls Club.
• Paper Movies is reading Reckless.
• Prophecy Girl is reading Extreme Kissing by Luisa Plaja

Releases:
•Fate by Jennifer Lynn Barnes (March 10)
•Hunted by P.C. and Kristin Cast (March 10)
•The King's Rose by Alisa Libby (March 19)
•Wintergirls by Laurie Halse Anderson (March 19

blog tips:
• Don’t do the paid ads. Some blog sites offer money for having ads that pop up on your blog, but if I can’t get through a review without having to hear about an acne cream and some sexual site I can promise I won’t be returning.
• Update often. If your blog says you’ve been reading the same book for two months I’ll assume you don’t give a crud. Care to get readers.
• Don’t bounce from idea to idea. If you say you’re starting a weekly feature don’t stop and move to another without telling us you’re doing so.

newsletter 3 stats:
• 83 % of workers did what was asked…. Why are we sinking? :p
• Kori said newsletter three, “turned out great.”

Publishers:
I run a YA book blog at Mrs. Magoo Reads. I conducted an interview with Jessica Zimmerman in order to do a publisher spotlight on St. Martin's Press for this newsletter. I hope you like it!

What type of books do you primarily publish?

St Martin’s Press is part of Macmillan and specializes in adult trade fiction and non-fiction. We wear many hats here publishing edgy memoirs such as Augusten Borough’s Running with Scissors to conservative classics like Pat Buchanan’s State of Emergency to the amazing Emily Giffin and her beautiful novels, her latest being Love the One You’re With.

Can you name some titles that will be released soon?

We have a few YA titles coming out this spring/summer and I’m very excited about them! Post Grad by Emily Cassel is coming out this June and is based off the motion picture Post Grad Survival Guide staring Alexis Bledel that’s opening August 14, 2009. This is a book for all recent graduates or fans of Legally Blonde.

Alyson Noël’s first novel in her new IMMORTALS series Evermore became an instant hit when it came out earlier this month, debuting at number 3 on the New York Times children’s bestseller list and quickly becoming number one. The second book in the series, Blue Moon, is coming out in July. For more information, check out Alyson’s website at http://alysonnoel.com/IMMORTALS. We’re so excited about this series and all the amazing feedback we’ve been hearing from readers everywhere.

How do you market your novels?

That really depends on the type of book and the author. For out YA books, we like to use the internet to reach out to our readers and fans in the most effective way. Our HOUSE OF NIGHT series has become such a huge success that the authors PC and Kristin Cast are going on their first national tour for Hunted, the fifth book in the series and the first hardcover. Hunted just came out last week, March 10, and they begin their tour today, March 16! We believe so strongly in this series that we’re hoping to introduce even more fans to this addictive series. PC and Kristin have a host of great events coming up this week—if you’d like to check them out, you can do so at http://www.houseofnightseries.com/ or http://us.macmillan.com/Tour.aspx?id=315.

How are you unique from other publishing companies?

I think we are unique in how vast and varied our list is. As I mentioned before, we really do it all here: political nonfiction, memoir, chick-lit, physiological thrillers, YA, cookbooks, how-to’s, you name it, we got it! We are dedicated to giving voice to as many authors as possible by publishing many books a season with the occasional blockbuster.

Some spots open. If you's like a part email me at princessashley9@gmail.com
If you want the full newsletter email me as well.

Newsletter 4- Part one

2009-04-03T13:55:00.000-07:00

We are now onto newsletter 6 so I'm a tad behind. If you would like all newsletters on time email me at princessashley9@gmail.com. I also need a few more workers. If you are up for that let me know!

Who's Who?
• Ashley and Erica are putting this together.
• Hope told us what contests were happening.
• Lisa May interviewed an author.
• Jenny filled us in on the UK

contests:
• Melissa Walker - new contest every Wednesday
• The Page Flipper - new contest every Monday
• The Shady Glade - new contest every Monday
• Free Book Friday Teens - new contest every Friday
• What: A full signed and personalized set of all of Mary Hogan's books from The Compulsive Reader. Ends: March 31st. Link: here
• What: Win TEN ARCs from The Story Siren (make sure to congratulate her for her 100,000 visitors!) Ends: April 7th Link:here
• What: Win one Jenny Valentine book or one Cathy Hopkins book. (Open WORLDWIDE.) Ends: March 15th. Link: here
• What: First prize winner gets an ARC of Shrinking Violet by Danielle Joseph, there are also second and third prizes. Ends: March 21st Link: shootingstarsmag
• What: Win a copy of Jewels Treasered by her Family. Ends: March 24th Link: here
• What: Keri Milkulski is giving away a bunch of wonderful looking spring-y books in her YAY for YA Spring Giveaway. Ends: April 30th Link: here
• What: 100+ Giveaways Link: here
• Elizabeth is having a contest all March. Link: here
• Carrie has good books: here
• 3 copies of Wherever Nina Lies available: here
• The Not So Closet Geeks are giving away a number of titles in honor or Geek Fest ends (depends on contest). here
• Insert Book Title Here is giving away a copy of Hunted by P.C and Kristin Cast ends march 20 win hunted here:
• Korianne is having a Twlight DVD Release Contest ends march 21 win twilight here
• Sharon is giving away an ARC of Peace, Love, and Baby Ducks by Lauren Myracle ends march 22 win ducks here
• Lauren is giving away a signed copy of A Little Friendly Advice by Siobhan Vivian ends march 24. win advice here
• Mrs. Magoo Reads is giving away a copy of This Lullaby by Sarah Dessen ends march 24. win Dessen here:
• Kelsey is giving away a copy of Jessica's Guide to Dating on the Dark Side by Beth Fantaskey ends march 27. win dating
• Karin is celebrating her 2year blogoversary with a mega contest ends march 27. mega wins
•
• TruBlu is giving away five copies of Kiss Me, Kill Me and Kisses and Lies by Lauren Henderson ends march 29 win kisses
• Just Your Typical Book Blog is giving away a copy of Something, Maybe by Elizabeth Scott ends march 30 win something
• In Bed With Books is having a great range of contests ends march 31. win books
• Word For Teens is having a March '09 Giveaway ends march 31. win
• Genevieve is giving away and ARC of What Would Emma Do by Eileen Cook ends march 31. win Emma
• Bookluver Carol is having a "...going to Floriday Giveaway" ends april 1. spring break wins
• Sarah is giving away a copy of Mackenzie, Lost and Found by Deborah Kerbel ends april 4. win
• Keri Mikulski is having a Yay for YA Spring Giveaway ends april 30 spring wins

new blogs:
• http://bookgirlsbookshelf.blogspot.com/

authors say:
Allison van Diepen is the talented writer of Snitch, Street Pharm and the her newly released book, Raven. Allison, who is a full-time high school teacher, stopped by to talk about being an author and to fill us in about Raven...

To begin with, can you tell us a bit about your latest book, Raven?

Sure. Raven is the story of Nicole, a teen who works underage at a New York City dance club. Nicole is madly in love with Zin, the head of her breakdancing crew, a gorgeous guy with a mysterious past. Nicole believes that she and Zin are like magnet and metal -- destined to be together. But Zin has a very good reason for keeping his distance...

Have you always wanted to be an author?

I've wanted to be an author since I was about twelve -- that's when I fell in love with reading. Writing my own stories was a natural extention of that. A couple of years later, I finished my first manuscript, and I was officially hooked on writing. I promised myself that I would hold on to my goal of becoming a published author, and I did.

Where do you get your inspiration for your stories?

Anywhere and everywhere. Sometimes a character or a premise just pops into my head while I'm listening to music. Other times a story idea comes from the day-to-day issues I'm concerned with; I'm a high school teacher, so I see a lot of real-life teen drama on a regular basis.

What do you think makes a good story?

It's all about believable, real characters. When I read a book, I don't need it to be artfully written, but I do need to care about the characters and what happens to them

Do you listen to music when you write?

Oh yes. Music is essential to get me in the mood of a certain scene. For Raven, I listened to dance music for the club scenes, and ballads for the romantic scenes.

Who is your favorite character you've created?

That's incredibly tough, so I'll have to go with my latest love, Zin from Raven. He's got this charisma, this something about him that draws Nicole. And I've already heard from readers that they're falling in love with him.

What other great things can we look forward to from you in the future?

I have two novels coming out in 2010 from Harlequin's new teen line. And I have a great idea for another paranormal and another gritty urban book -- all I need is the time to write them!

Thanks Allison!
Raven by Allison van Diepen is out now! Check it out here on amazon :)
You can also find out more about Allison on her website, http://www.allisonvandiepen.com/

UK Books:
From Amazon: John works in his family’s mortuary and has an obsession with serial killers. He wants to be a good person, but fears he is a sociopath, and for years he has suppressed his dark side through a strict system of rules designed to mimic “normal” behavior. Then a demon begins stalking his small town and killing people one by one, and John is forced to give in to his darker nature in order to save them. As he struggles to understand the demon and find a way to kill it, his own mind begins to unravel until he fears he may never regain control. Faced with the reality that he is, perhaps, more monstrous than the monster he is fighting, John must make a final stand against the horrors of both the demon and himself.

This book is brilliant. It's dark, scary and humorous, and is perfect for fans of the show Dexter. It won't appeal to everyone, but if you're looking for something a little bit different, I would highly recommend I Am Not A Serial Killer. You can read my review here.

Coming Soon/Recently Released in the UK
Extreme Kissing by Luisa Plaja (April 2nd)
Maximum Ride: Max by James Patterson (April 2nd)
Skulduggery Pleasant: The Faceless Ones by Derek Landy (April 6th)
Gone by Michael Grant (April 6th)

New polls and such

2009-03-24T14:44:00.001-07:00

Instead of sending a mass email I will post here. The next due date is April first. Please submit asap.

New polls:
Best gossip book:
The A list
The Clique
Gossip Girl

The Great debate:
Harry Potter
Twilight
Eragon

Also: What are you reading?

Winner!

2009-03-21T17:38:00.000-07:00

Sorry about this - it IS a bit late, but I am going to announce the winner of the BLOG OF THE MONTH CONTEST!!!

This Month's featured blog is Bites, a book blog. You can visit it at litbites.blogspot.com!

Our Scavenger blog of the month is Lucid Conspiracy, a book blog that you can visit at http://lucidconspiracy.blogspot.com/!

Check them out, and if you like them, show the authors a bit o' love and follow their blog!

Please note that it is not too late to sign up for this contest at http://yablognews.blogspot.com/2009/02/contest.html!

Join today...

Thanks,
BC101

New Deadline:

2009-03-18T11:04:00.000-07:00

I'm extending the deadline of when I need things by until tomorrow at 8 am. Please get things into me as this newsletter just isnt shaping up :(

Dont forget to tell me what your reading and your favorite Twilight book.

xo, Ashley

p.s. I'm sending emails to those who have not got stuff in.

Updates....

2009-03-17T12:06:00.000-07:00

Hey everyone! Ashley here! I really need peopleto do there job. The due date is this Wednesday (tomorrow) and not many peopl have done it. The first 5 people get a reward. So rewar only there have. So get your things in to me!

Also I need to know... What are you reading?

Lastly.... Favorite Twilight book you've read? Thats the poll question. Let me know asap

Publisher Spotlight: St. Martin's Press

2009-03-16T16:24:00.000-07:00

I run a YA book blog at Mrs. Magoo Reads. I conducted an interview with Jessica Zimmerman in order to do a publisher spotlight on St. Martin's Press for this newsletter. I hope you like it!

What type of books do you primarily publish?

St Martin’s Press is part of Macmillan and specializes in adult trade fiction and non-fiction. We wear many hats here publishing edgy memoirs such as Augusten Borough’s Running with Scissors to conservative classics like Pat Buchanan’s State of Emergency to the amazing Emily Giffin and her beautiful novels, her latest being Love the One You’re With.

Can you name some titles that will be released soon?

We have a few YA titles coming out this spring/summer and I’m very excited about them! Post Grad by Emily Cassel is coming out this June and is based off the motion picture Post Grad Survival Guide staring Alexis Bledel that’s opening August 14, 2009. This is a book for all recent graduates or fans of Legally Blonde.

Alyson Noël’s first novel in her new IMMORTALS series Evermore became an instant hit when it came out earlier this month, debuting at number 3 on the New York Times children’s bestseller list and quickly becoming number one. The second book in the series, Blue Moon, is coming out in July. For more information, check out Alyson’s website at http://alysonnoel.com/IMMORTALS. We’re so excited about this series and all the amazing feedback we’ve been hearing from readers everywhere.

How do you market your novels?

That really depends on the type of book and the author. For out YA books, we like to use the internet to reach out to our readers and fans in the most effective way. Our HOUSE OF NIGHT series has become such a huge success that the authors PC and Kristin Cast are going on their first national tour for Hunted, the fifth book in the series and the first hardcover. Hunted just came out last week, March 10, and they begin their tour today, March 16! We believe so strongly in this series that we’re hoping to introduce even more fans to this addictive series. PC and Kristin have a host of great events coming up this week—if you’d like to check them out, you can do so at http://www.houseofnightseries.com/ or http://us.macmillan.com/Tour.aspx?id=315.

How are you unique from other publishing companies?

I think we are unique in how vast and varied our list is. As I mentioned before, we really do it all here: political nonfiction, memoir, chick-lit, physiological thrillers, YA, cookbooks, how-to’s, you name it, we got it! We are dedicated to giving voice to as many authors as possible by publishing many books a season with the occasional blockbuster.

Newsletter 3- Part 3

2009-03-16T11:27:00.000-07:00

Blog Tips:
•Colored fonts on a colored background usually look annoying. If I have to squint to read your blog lets just say I won’t read it.
•Don’t rip other bloggers off. We work hard to develop our features so don’t change the name and try to make it your own with out talking to us and giving us credit. For example we see the in my mail box all over now. Make sure you at least credit Kristi or Alea the first time with a link to their blog. Changing the name does not hide the fact that it was someone other than yours first. I have seen this sadly.
•Don’t butter up your reviews to get free books. If I read a review that says, “This was the most amazing, inspirational, funny, cute and charming book I have ever read,” it makes me want to throw up. You sound as fake as Barbie’s dimensions.

Carols Blog Spotlight:
1. Why did you start blogging?
I started blogging because I wanted a place to post my opinions of the books that I've read. Plus, I have a huge ego that can only be pleased with loads of comments on my posts. :D (j/k)
2. Why did you choose YA as your main focus? (I know you talked about this on your blog the other day but...I still think it's a good question for future Blogger Spotlights :)
I'm a teen so it's reasonable that I will start a YA blog and read YA books. I love reading YA books, all that angst, romance, cattiness...it's like my high school but in a book and I get to "live" as the main character. :)
3. What's your favorite thing about blogging?
The comments that I get from my readers, the fact that I get to chat with authors or interview them, and that I get to read some really good books months before they come out. Oh, and that I get to chat with a lot of cool bloggers! :)
4. How did you gain more traffic to your site?
Umm...I asked other bloggers to add me to their link list (politely); I had contests (I still do!); and I sometimes send out bulletins in Myspace.
5. What are some advice you can give to fellow Bloggers?
Not to bite off more than they can chew. Basically don't request a ton of books because then reading and reviewing won't be fun because whenever you look at your TBR pile, you'll be very stressed. I'm not a good advice giver so I suggest looking at Kristi's blogging tips.

Geek Fest:
http://ya-bookaholic.blogspot.com/2009/02/100-posts-contest.html is where Geek Fest will be located.
Who’s coming?
• Zoe Marriot
• Justina Chen Headley
• Susan Juby
• Laurie Faria Stolarz
• Lisa Manchev
• Jody Gehrman
• Eileen Cook
• Jillian Cantor
• Tina Ferraro
• Lisa Ann Sandell
• Maria V Snyder
• Lauren Henderson
• Adele of Persnickity Snark
• Sarah of Sarah's Random Musings
• Hope of Hope's Bookshelf
• Cassandra Clare
• Nancy Werlin
• Deb Caletti

What can you win?
• Daughter of the Flames by Zoe Marriott
• The Swan Kingdom by Zoe Marriott
• What Would Emma Do? by Eileen Cook
• How to Hook a Hottie by Tina Ferraro
• Song of the Sparrow by Lisa Ann Sandell
• A Map of the Known World (ARC) by Lisa Ann Sandell

Quotes about Geek Fest:
“It's all about geeks. I've always loved the intellectual camaraderie I've felt with other self-proclaimed geeks. It's a pretty amazing feeling, and I'd like to share it through Geek Fest."
"Geek Fest will be a celebration for all the self-proclaimed geeks out there, hosted by the reviewers at The Not So Closet Geeks."

Spotlighted Books:
Are you looking for the perfect book to read, but can’t seem to find one? Then you are at the right spot! I have scrounged up a list of 5 different wonderful young adult books for you to enjoy!

“The Season” by Sarah MacLean
“The Season” is a fabulous novel about coming of age, mystery, and falling love. I loved it, and suggest it to everyone who has an interest in Regenery England time and is a teen girl!

“Zombie Queen of Newbury High” by Amanda Ashby
This is a book that is all about zombies, love, and a teen girl’s life! It is a fun, fast, book that makes you feel happy!

“The Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants” by Anne Brasheres
If you haven’t already read this series, now is the time to start! They are all about 4 best friends who share a pair of pants, which help keep them together during the summer when they are apart. Throughout reading the books, you grow attached to the characters and want to read more!

“Bog Child” by Sioban Dowd
In this book, a boy finds a dead girl in the bog. Throughout the story, the mystery of her death unfolds and a budding relationship forms with him and Cora. This was a neat book, and different!

“The Spring of Candy Apples” by Debbie Vigue
This is the 4th in the Sweet Season Novels. These are books about Candance, who works at a theme park called “The Zone.” She always seems to find herself in the center of attention and seems to always have some type of problem while working there! Sweet Season books are fun, light, and satisfying Christian reads.

Newsletter Stats:
We have 42 people working.
We have 81 subscribers.

In newsletter one only 2 people didn’t do their job! That means 95% did! Way to go guys!!!!

In newsletter two 8 people were unable to do their job. 2 of those were excused so we wont count them. That means 86% did their job. Not bad but I know we can do better

Book Sites:
• http://onlinebookclub.org/
• http://www.readingrants.org/?page_id=517
• http://www.booktalk.org/

Important:

2009-03-11T12:09:00.000-07:00

If you have not been invited to the new site email me!

That is where poll questions and disscusions will occur.

Newsletter 3 part 2

2009-03-11T09:56:00.000-07:00

Reviews
•Purge will be reviewed at booksaremylove.blogspot.com
•Killing Britney will be reviewed at booksaremylove.blogspot.com
•Giving up the V will be reviewed at booksaremylove.blogspot.com

UK Books

Let's Get Lost by Sarra Manning
Some girls are born to be bad...Isabel is one of them. Her friends are terrified of her, her teachers can't get through to her...her family doesn't understand her. And that's just the way she likes it. See, when no one can get near you, no one will know what keeps you awake at night, what you're afraid of, what has broken your heart...But then Isabel meets the enigmatic Smith, who can see right through her act. Bit by bit he chips away at her armour, and though she fights hard to keep hold of her cool, and her secrets, Isabel's falling for him, and coming apart at the seams when she does...A poignant, sometimes dark, and utterly heart-breaking novel, told with all the author's trademark wit and sharp observation...
Here's another brilliant UK author that everyone should read! I think of Sarra Manning as the British version of Sarah Dessen, because her books are very realistic and character driven. I read Let's Get Lost in one sitting, as it was really difficult to put down. I'd also recommend Sarra Manning's Diary of a Crush trilogy, which is amazing!

New & Noteworthy UK Releases:
The Ant Colony by Jenny Valentine (Harper Collins, March 5th)
House of Night: Chosen by P.C. & Kristin Cast (Atom, March 5th)
I Am Not a Serial Killer by Dan Wells (Headline, March 5th)
Also, if you're in the UK, make sure to pick up Jenny Valentine's short World Book Day book, Ten Stations, which is set in the Finding Violet Park world and is only £1!

We're reading:
•Ashley is reading P.S. I Loathe You by Lisi Harrison
•Prophecy Girl is reading Zombie Queen of Newbury High.
•RM is reading Wake.
•Sarah L. is reading Envy.
•Shooting Star is currently reading Graphic Classics: Oscar Wilde
•Jessica is reading Invitation Only
•Katie is reading Going to Far
•Paper Movies has a whole list of books going
•Katie is reading Absolutely Maybe
•Maggie is reading Beautiful Americans
•Sarah is reading Anything but Typical
•Polo Pony is reading Wake
•Stephanie is reading Popular Vote
•Laina is reading Invisible Touch

Releases
march 1:
The Season by Sarah McLean
This is What I Want to Tell You by Heather Duffy Stone
My Life in Pink & Green by Lisa Greenwald
Secrets of My Hollywood Life: Paparazzi Princess by Jen Calonita
The September Sisters by Jillian Cantor (cantor means male singer in spanish)
Dead Girl Dancing by Linda Joy Singleton (sequel to Dead Girl Walking)
In Mike We Trust by Patrick Ryan
Everything is Fine by Ann Dee Ellis
Hannah's Winter by Kierin Meehan
Step To This by Nikki Carter
Freaked by J.T Dutton
Marcelo in the Real World by Francisco Stork
Same Difference by Siobhan Vivian
A Little Friendly Advice by Siobhan Vivian
Elly: My True Story of the Holocaust by Elly Bercovits Gross
Wish You Were Here by Catherine Clark
Serendipity Market by Penny Bluebaugh
The Boyfriend Game by Stephanie Davis (paperback)
The Amaranth Enchantment- Julie Berry (March 3rd)
Dark Guardian No. 1: Moonlight- Rachel Hawthorne (March 3rd)
Lifting the Sky by Mackie d'Arge
Just One Wish by Janette Rallison (March 5th)
The Forest of Hands and Teeth- Carrie Ryan Zombie Queen of Newbury High by Amanda Ashby
Taken by Storm by Angela Morrison (March 10th)
Hunted- PC Cast (March 10th)
Brutal by Michael Harmon (March 10th)
Fate by Jennifer Lynn Barnes (March 10th)
Going too Far- Jennifer Echols (March 17th)
Winter Girls by Laurie Halse Anderson (March 19th)

Blog of the Week

2009-03-08T14:22:00.000-07:00

Please note that it is NOT too late to sign up at http://yablognews.blogspot.com/2009/02/contest.html

The first winner is a blog which is made to review books. The rating system works as follows:

I don't give books star ratings; I give them bite ratings. This is a bite. A book can get up to five of these endangered Scrats, including half bites.

You can attribute your own wording to the ratings. Five's the best, three's decent, one and under isn't worth the gas to go to the library. I'll leave it to you to fill in the blanks.

This has been taken word for word from the web page.

That info is under a title.

It is located at _________.blogspot.com

The title of the rating system has all of the missing letters in the URL except for ONE.

The first person who posts a comment with the letter that is in the URL but not in the title and the name of what website they want to advertise will get a free ad on Wednesday.

Please note that the author of the blog is not allowed to post the comment. Also remember that people could be wrong, so if someone already commented, you aren't necessarily out of the running YET!

You CAN win the scavenger hunt contest more than once, unlike the BLOG OF THE WEEK contest. This blog is the BLOG OF THE WEEK. You will find out what the blog of the week, along with the who the scavenger hunt winner is on Wednesday, the 18th.

Good Luck!

Thoughts....

2009-03-08T11:52:00.000-07:00

Wow two posts today. I guess I just had some important stuff to say. First off, note this is just my thoughts and does not represent all YA Blog News writers.

I have recently seen some fighting between bloggers that I believe should be addressed. Tell me it's none of my business, I don't care. As bloggers it's important to support each other. Not everyone feels safe telling their friends what they do in their spare time. We all may have differnt ideas as to what is good and what sucks but they should be handled respecrfully.

When I hear that a certain blogger who shall remain unnamed is receiving hate mail for her opinions I get a little ticked. Adults who do not know teens personally should not tell them they need to respect adults. I can see where that might be said if someone went off on a "fu** the adults" rampage, but one opinion on how adults may be wrong about teens favorite books... thats crazy.

I saw no problem with a comment that was made by an adult on the original post, I do however have an issue with adults butting in where they are unneeded. DO NOT tell people they are being disrespectful when they are in fact stating a freakin oppinion.

Okay I'm done... Calming down. :P

Newsletter 3 Part 1

2009-03-08T11:08:00.000-07:00

Who's who:
•Ashley and Erica are putting this together.
•People told us what they are reading.
•Jenny Told us what’s new in the UK.
•Stephanie interviewed Carol
•Hope gave us contest links
•Bella told us about Geek Fest
•RM told us what to read

contests
• What: Win an ARC of The King's Rose from Lauren (Lauren's Crammed Bookshelf).
Link: http://laurenscrammedbookshelf.blogspot.com/2009/02/contest-for-arc-of-kings-rose-by-alisa.html
Ends: March 3rd
• What: Win Inivisible Touch by Kelly Para from the Bradford Blog Bash.
Link: http://bradfordnovels.blogspot.com/2009/02/awesome-authors-kelly-parra.html
Ends: ? ... didn't say.
• http://ya-bookaholic.blogspot.com/2009/02/100-posts-contest.html is giving away 13 Reasons Why
• What: Win one of twenty copies of Speak by Laurie Halse Anderson from Lenore and Steph.
Link: http://presentinglenore.blogspot.com/2009/02/lets-talk-about-winning-speak-contest.html
Ends: March 12.
• What: An ARC of Silver Phoenix by Cindy Pon.
Link: http://alex-moore.blogspot.com/2009/02/interview-with-new-ya-fantasy-author.html
Ends: ?
• What: The September Sisters by Jillian Cantor.
Link: http://laurenscrammedbookshelf.blogspot.com/2009/02/contest-for-setember-sisters-by-jillian.html
Ends: March 13.
• What: One copy of The Luxe, one copy of How To Be Popular, and one copy of Perfect You.
Link: http://ashley-thecompulsivereader.blogspot.com/2009/02/contest.html
Ends: March 7th.
• What: An ARC of The King's Rose by Alisa Libby
Link: http://laurenscrammedbookshelf.blogspot.com/2009/02/contest-for-arc-of-kings-rose-by-alisa.html
Ends: March 3rd.
• Lisa McMann if having a Fund You Dreams Contest ends March 6.
• Sarah MacLean is giving away a The Season Wordle Journal ends March 6
• Robin Titan is giving away an ARC of Geek Charming by Robin Palmer ends March 11.
• Reviewer X and Lenore are giving away MULTIPLE copies of Speak by Laurie Halse Anderson ends March 12.
• YA Book Realm is giving away a copy of The September Sisters by Jillian Cantor ends March 13.
• Lauren is giving away a copy of The September Sisters by Jillian Canto ends March 13
• Steph Su is giving away a LOT of ARC's of How To Ditch Your Fairy by Justine Larbalestier ends March 15
• TruBlu is giving away a copy of The Season by Sarah MacLean ends March 15 < http://trublu93.blogspot.com/2009/03/21-questions-starring-sarah-maclean.html >
• The Book Sniffer is giving away a copy of Airhead by Meg Cabot ends March 20
• Brooke Reviews is giving away a total of THREE books ends March 20
• Korianne is having a Twilight DVD Release Contest. ends March 21.
• Lauren and a BUNCH of other Bloggers are having a huge Willow Contest ends April 30

New blogs
http://books-are-life-reviews.blogspot.com/

http://purdypirate.blogspot.com/

http://theravenousreader-kate.blogspot.com/

http://www.krystenslibrary.blogspot.com/

authors
• Hope's bookshelf http://www.princess2293.blogspot.com/ is having:
March 2: Sarah MacLean (author of The Season)
March 10: Neesha S. Meminger (author of Shine, Coconut Moon)
March 19: Cheryl Renee Herbsman (author of Breathing)
March 24: Carrie Ryan (author of The Forest of Hands and Teeth)
• Juicilicouss Reviews http://www.juiciliciousssreviews.blogspot.com/ is having: An interview posted with Sarah MacLean, author of The Season March 2.

And The Winner is....

2009-03-06T10:22:00.000-08:00

Picture number two!!!!!

Contest- revisited...

2009-03-05T13:57:00.001-08:00

There are 4 days left to join the contest at this blog...

Check it out at http://yablognews.blogspot.com/2009/02/contest.html...

Ads are hard to come by, so check it out...

Thanks,
Book Critic 101

--__--
I got tired of reading romance reviews - romance here, romance there - so I started a blog that wasn't as ROMANTIC. It has reviews of books that aren't as blogged about and it usually doesn't have chicklit - but it still reviews good books.

Check it out at thesundaybookreport.blogspot.com!

Thanks for visiting!

Vote

2009-03-04T12:31:00.000-08:00

Okay so I need some ideas... Newsletter 4 is in the works and 3 is being released friday. I thought We'd swicth up the pic or I'd give everyone the chance to pic the new picture. There are 5 options and you will each have the chance to get 1 chance of having your picked.

+1 chance if you post telling me which one
+1 If you subscribe to this blog
+1 if you are a subscriber of booksaremylove.blogspot.com
+2 If you get the newsletter via email.
Tell me how many points you get out of 5 :)

Newsletter 2 part 3

2009-03-03T13:37:00.000-08:00

UK Book
This book sounds really interesting. Jenny sent me the info on it and either she is great at knowing how to make a book sound good or it really is. Black Rabbit Summer by Kevin Brooks.

Pete Boland was busy doing nothing that summer. Long, stiflingly hot, lazy days stretched ahead of him. Then she called. "Listen, Pete . . . you know that funfair, up at the recreation ground . . . I thought we could all meet up . . . You know, for old times' sake." But, where there are old times, there are old tensions. And as secrets, bitterness and jealousies resurface, five old friends are plunged into the worst night of their lives . . .

“Once I started this book, it was impossible for me to put down. It's one of the most suspenseful books I've ever read, and keeps you guessing until the very end. It also has a brilliant cover, which relates to the story in every way possible.”
“Kevin Brooks is amongst my favourite UK authors, as he writes gritty, realistic thrillers that stay in your head for days after finishing them.”

The Read Carpet
We successful launched our second episode after technical issues plaguing production. Our second episode tackled the all important subject of love as Valentine's Day occurred. Zombies may not fit into that topic but they do love flesh!

We have been lucky to have several authors comment, link and mention our podcast in the past few weeks. That has been beyond thrilling as has the great response from the YA community.

The third episode, to be released at the end of the month will see the return of the first group of contributors for their second segment. We would love to have some other voices in the show, so please consider calling into our voicemail or emailing in!

We want to hear your new finds; the authors that inspire you, a character that can make you melt, etc. How you think Adele's The List was a complete load of tripe! Share what you are passionate about in the YA-verse.

We're Reading...
Ashley and Katie are reading Sophomore Switch.
Lisette is reading The Elite, In Too Deep, Shadowed Summer, An Abundance of Katherines, and The Girl She Used to Be.
Hope is reading Wintergirls.
Laina is reading Vamps by Nancy Collins.
http://carriesyabookshelf.blogspot.com/ is reading Evermore.
Lisa May is reading Sliding on the Edge by C. Lee. McKenzie.
Just Listen is reading Somebody’s Crying by Maureen McCarthy.
Erika Lynn is reading Sloppy Firsts.
Steph is reading Luxe, Mrs. Perfect, and Diary of a Chav.
Renee is reading Worldweavers and thinking its hard to get through.
Shooting Stars is reading The ABC’s of Kissing Boys.
Prophecy Girl is reading Numbers by Rachel Ward.
Travis is reading Look Both Ways by Jacquelyn.
Jenny is reading The Knife of Never Letting Go.
Polo Pony is reading Cracked up to Be.
Megan is reading I heart You, You Haunt Me.
Gabrielle is reading The Boyfriend List, Lord of Misrule and The Time Travelers Wife.
Sarah is reading Envy: A Luxe Novel.
Tru Blu is reading The Center of the Universe.
Jill is Reading Just Like That.
Paper Movies is reading Tweak, The Hunger Games and The Book Thief.

releases
The Anatomy of Wings by Karen Foxlee (feb 10)
Eternal by Cynthia Leitich Smith (feb 10)
Fade by Lisa McMann (feb 10)
Dope Sick by Walter Dean Myers (feb 10)
Miss Match by Wendy Toliver (feb 10)
Raven by Allison Van Diepen (feb 10)
Shadowed Summer by Saundra Mitchell (feb 10)
Skeleton Creek by Patrick Carman (feb 10)
In Mike We Trust by P.E Ryan (feb 17)
It's A Green Thing (Diary of a Teenage Girl) book 2 by Melody Carlson (feb 17)
Alis by Naomi Rich (feb 19)
Great Call of China by Cynthea Liu (feb 19)
Response by Paul Volponi (feb 19)
The Season by Sarah Maclean (March 2nd)
The Amaranth Enchantment- Julie Berry (March 3rd)
Dark Guardian No. 1: Moonlight- Rachel Hawthorne (March 3rd)
Just One Wish by Janette Rallison (March 5th)
Hunted- PC Cast (March 10th)
Brutal by Michael Harmon (March 10th)

Blog Tips
Music on your blog is cool but please none of that bang your head junk. You want me to read your full review and comment? Then don’t give me a headache.
Don’t comment someone’s blog advertising your own. If you just reviewed the same book go ahead and tell me but don’t leave me a link to your blog. Maybe I’m just picky but I feel like its downgrading someone’s work.
Not every other word needs to be bad. I get your point if you say you hate a book. No need to throw in 8 Fu**s and 6 Cra*s. (Sorry to be so blunt but I noticed this recently :( )
Sidebar etiquette is important. If your sidebars are a mile long things just look messy. No need to have 5 new release tickers, a million links and pages worth of information. Keep things clean.

Past Week
Visit The Story Siren to learn how you can win free ARCs of Lisa Mantchev's Eyes Like Stars
Win The September Sisters by Jillian Cantor at YA Book Realm
Enter to win a signed copy of Zoë Marriott's new book, Daughter of the Flames, at The Magic of Ink
Bookworm Chrysalis reviewed Kristin Cashore's Graceling "It was a solidly good book, but as I said above about the villain, it seemed like it lacked a level of complexity I would have liked - though I can't pinpoint what exactly I felt was missing."
Read an advance-review of Severed Ties by Kevin Krohn at Just Blinded Book Reviews "Severed Ties was so unique to me--the plot, the characters, and the writing were so original! Even though it was short-less than two hundred pages-it was filled to the brim with everything a much larger book could hold."
The Book Girl reviewed Laura Faria Stolaz's Deadly Little Secret "So this book was simply amazing. I can't believe I haven't read any of Laurie's books before this, despite the fact that I own each one."
The Book Obsession enjoyed Beastly by Alex Flinn "This novel was absolutely outstanding! One of the best novels I have read in a long time. I was so into the book I would read a hundred pages and it would seem as if only a second went by. This is the first I have read from Alex Flinn and it will not be the last. Her writing style is absolutely enchanting."

prophecygirl at Wondrous Reads reviewed Gayle Forman's If I Stay "I have a feeling that If I Stay may be one of those books that sells millions of copies, wins numerous awards, and inspires people to pick up a pen and tell a story of their own."

Newsletter 2 Part 2

2009-03-02T11:39:00.000-08:00

*for some reason this is looking weird. I will be unable to change colors or center this all. Sorry :( *

Remember if you wanna see how cool the newsletter really is you must subscribe. Email me at princessashley9@gmail.com so I can sign you up :)

Authors
http://koriannespeaks.blogspot.com/ is planning to have Siobhan Vivian
http://www.princess2293.blogspot.com/ has Madison Scott on the 19th
http://www.princess2293.blogspot.com/ has Jillian Canter on the 24th
Adele Walsh at http://persnicketysnark.blogspot.com is having Karen Tayleur (Chasing Boys) as her author spotlight this week, which includes a reader's snapshot, an interview and a guest blog.
Reyna at http://booksforteensreviews.blogspot.com/ is having Shelley Adina (author of the young adult "All about Us" novels) for a visit.
Reyna at http://booksforteensreviews.blogspot.com/ is having Sarah MacLean, author of "The Season",
Lauren at http://shootingstarsmag.blogspot.com/ had one with Janni Lee Simner, who wrote Bones of Faerie.
2/11 - Melissa de la Cruz at My Favorite Author
2/18 - Richelle Mead at My Favorite Author
2/25 - Claudia Gray at My Favorite Author

Author Spotlight
Lisa and shooting star Interviewed Jennifer Banash for us. Here is what she had to say!

When did you first realize you wanted to be a writer?
When I was around 2, my father gave me a typewriter as a birthday present. I don't think I realized that I was going to be a writer right then and there (umm . . . I could barely drink from a sippy cup without making a mess), but I think the seed was definitely planted.

What inspired you to write the Elite books?
My own high school experience. I went to high school with a lot of wealthy kid that were supposed to have it all--but were actually deeply troubled, and had less than perfect home lives. While I've always been attracted to glamor, and really wanted to write an escapist series for teens, also wanted to temper it with a bit of reality in terms of the characters home lives.

What do you think makes a good story?
I think drama, romance, and intrigue make a good story! Writing what you know doesn't hurt either :)

How long did it take you to write each book?
I wrote all three books in about 9 months. Yes, I was tired afterwards!

Do you hear from your readers much? What kinds of things do they say?
I'm kind of Facebook obsessed, so I hear from readers a good deal. Mostly they just tell me that they love the books, or ask for tips on getting published themselves. I love hearing from readers--it's the best part of the job!

Who is your favorite character you've created?
My favorite character I've created is Madison Macallister. Yes, she's a drama queen, diva-bitch, but she's just so much FUN to write! I literally giggle in my chair like a maniac when I'm writing her story arc.

What book are you currently reading?
I'm currently reading I KNOW IT'S OVER, by CK Kelly Martin. It's fantastic.

What's your all time favorite book?
Arrrrgh . . . I hate this question! I'm indecisive and could never choose just ONE. Some of my favorites are: A TREE GROWS IN BROOKLYN, LESS THAN ZERO, TO THE LIGHTHOUSE, and I love anything that Carole Maso writes--not many people read her--but they should. As far as strictly YA goes, SISTERS OF MISERY by Megan Kelley Hall is the best book I've read in a LONG time--hands down.

And finally, what's your opinion of book bloggers? :)
I love book bloggers--so much so that I thanked them profusely on the acknowledgments page of IN TOO DEEP! I think bloggers do an excellent job of raising the visibility of YA--a genre that doesn't really get many print reviews in general. If any bloggers out there still haven't reviewed the first two ELITE book, let me know! I'll be glad to get you copies.

If you had to live in the shoes of one of your characters in the Elite series for a whole year, who would you pick and why?
I would pick Madison, because even though she's a complete bitch, it would be really liberating to tell everyone exactly what I thought of them 24/7 without holding back. I'm the type of person who always wants to please EVERYONE--often at the expense of my own sanity, so to spend a year as Madison, doing and saying exactly what I wanted, would be very liberating for me.

Have you ever had an idea for a character to include but ultimately left them out? If so, can you tell us anything about these "cut-out" characters?
Hmmm . . . I had an idea for a character in THE ELITE that was physically abused by her parents, but at the end of the day her story arc was just too realistic and TOO much of a downer for the series itself. I'm all for realism, but she just didn't fit. I definitely want to write a book about child abuse at some point, but this just wasn't the right series to include it--As it was, I had to fight my editor tooth and nail to include Sophie's problem with cutting.

Since you have Drew in the series, do you feel that boys could read your books as well as girls and get something out of it?
Definitely. In fact, guys write me all the time on MySpace or Facebook and tell me that they love the series, and that they can really relate to Drew as a character. I'm especially proud in those moments because writing from a guy's perspective is incredibly difficult for me, and thus, those kinds of comments are incredibly gratifying to me as a writer.

The Blog to check out
Nineteen Teen (http://www.nineteen.blogspot.com)

YA authors Marissa Doyle and Regina Scott talk about the lives, loves, and interests of teens in nineteenth century England. With pictures from the time period, quizzes and guessing games, themed giveaways, posts by characters from YA novels about the nineteenth century, and interviews with other authors, this is the place to be if you like your skirts long and your men dashing. They’re in the middle of a series of posts on English Country dancing, including how to flirt while dancing. Over 1,300 visitors a month can’t be wrong! Come join the fun.
Thanks to Regina for sharing that info with us!

Reviews
•Ashley is reviewing New Moon at booksaremylove.blogspot.com
•Booksaremylove.blogspot.com will review Frenimies.
•Booksaremylove.blogspot.com will review sophomore Switch.
•Booksaremylove.blogspot.com will review In Too Deep
•Booksaremylove.blogspot.com will review Bloom.
•My Favorite Author is reviewing The Historian by Elizabeth Kostova

Contest!!!

2009-02-28T19:17:00.001-08:00

Well, we here at YA Blog Newsletter are being hit by this recession just like everyone else...
So we can't really afford to send books out to people, or even buy them in some cases...

Se we came up with a new scheme.

"BLOG OF THE WEEK"

So once a week, every week - almost - we will give one blog a free advertisement on this site - that is that we will post your blog and a link and a description and all of that good stuff...

It will USUALLY be posted on Wednesday, but allow for a little variation...

In order to be entered for a particular month, you must comment before the 9th of that month. You do NOT have to comment every month. Once you enter, you will be entered for every month after that.

+1 entry for following thesundaybookreport.blogspot.com...
+1 entry for adding it to your blogroll...
+1 entry for posting about this contest...
+2 entries for writing a comment about your favorite book...
+3 entries for following THIS blog...
+4 entries for adding THIS BLOG to your blogroll...
+3 entries for doing all of these things - this does not include posting about the contest.
You MUST also comment below with the name of your blog and what you did...
Just your user name WON'T WORK...

Please note that this contest will also be used for the scavenger hunt contest.

Good Luck!
Book Critic 101
- - ___ - -

I got tired of reading romance reviews - romance here, romance there - so I started a blog that wasn't as ROMANTIC. It has reviews of books that aren't as blogged about and it usually doesn't have chicklit - but it still reviews good books.

Check it out at thesundaybookreport.blogspot.com!

Thanks for visiting!

Newsletter 2 part one

2009-02-28T13:58:00.000-08:00

Remember the real thing is much cooler looking :) You also dont get to know about things first if you just see it here. Please email me at princessashley9@gmail.com to be signed up. Also thats where you email me if you wanna be involved :)

Who's who:
Ashley and Erica are putting the stuff together.
Taylor S. told us what was coming up on blogs.
Jenny told us about a U.K. book.
People told us what they are reading.
Lisa May and Shooting star interviewed Jennifer Banash!
Nadine and Hope told us what contests to check out!
Bella Aire told us what author visits to check out. So did Laina!
Renee and Lisette told us some new releases.
Katie J. and Sharon helped us find new bloggers!
Magic Ink told us what happened this week.
My Favorite Author told us what’s new at her blog.

Contests:

v http://carriesyabookshelf.blogspot.com/ is giving away some great books.

v The Compulsive Reader at thecompulsivereader.blogspot.com is having Jennifer Banash around throughout the month (and they'll be giving away 5 books), and Zoe Marriot will be stopping by in about a week or so to host another mega contest.

v Alea over at Pop Culture Junkie is giving away FOUR titles worth having. ends February 20. http://aleapopculture.blogspot.com/2009/02/benefit-from-my-bargain-finds-giveaway.html

v Lauren over at Lauren's Crammed Bookshelf is giving away an ARC of Golden Girl by Misol Ostow ends February 28. http://laurenscrammedbookshelf.blogspot.com/2009/02/contest-for-arc-of-golden-girl-by-micol.html

v Kim Pauley over at YA Books Central is giving away multiple copies of THREE awesome books. ends February 28. Eternal by Cynthia Leitich http://www.yabookscentral.com/cfusion/index.cfm?fuseAction=home.eternal 3 Willows: The Sisterhood Grows by Ann Brashares http://www.yabookscentral.com/cfusion/index.cfm?fuseAction=home.3Willows Jessican's Guide to Dating on the Dark Side by Beth Fantaskey http://www.yabookscentral.com/cfusion/index.cfm?fuseAction=home.Jessicas

v GreenBean TeenQueen (what a crafty name) is giving away a Prize Pack of books and Amazon Gift card. ends February 28. http://greenbeanteenqueen.blogspot.com/2009/02/i-love-books-contest.html

v Nicole B over at WORD for teens is having a Love and Lies February '09 giveaway. ends February 28. http://wordforteens.blogspot.com/2009/02/february-09-giveaway-love-and-lies.html

v Steph over at Reviewer X is having a HUGE party giveaway in honor of A. S. King's release of Dust of 100 Dogs ends February 28. http://reviewerx.blogspot.com/2009/02/heres-contest-you-dont-wanna-miss.html

v This is totally random but, Debs Store is having a Prom Makeover Sweepstakes ends March 20. https://subscribe.hearstmags.com/subscribe/seventeen/21445

v Feb 21 - 27 Win an ARC of STARGAZER by Claudia Gray .. details will be announced on Saturday, Feb 21st

New(er) bloggers:

v http://yaromancereviews.blogspot.com/ is a fantastic blog to get chick lit ideas.

v http://cityofbooks.blogspot.com/ is fairly new but I thought I’d mention it anyways. What a great blog.

v http://trunerd.blogspot.com/ is also fairly new but super great!

v http://ceridwensbooklounge.blogspot.com/ doesn’t have many followers yet but its so cool looking.

v http://musingsofafledglingwriter.blogspot.com/ is really new and has great posts already!

v http://insertbooktitle.blogspot.com/ is an amazing new blog!

v http://www.jonathanzemsky.blogspot.com/ an author with a great blog!

Mrs. Magoo: Guest Blog

2009-02-27T20:18:00.000-08:00

Hi everybody! My name is Sophie (alias Mrs. Magoo), I’m thirteen years old, and I have a blog at www.mrsmagooreads.com. I started my blog in August of 2007, a month before my twelfth birthday. When I started, I had no idea that this teen book blogging community existed, and it was actually several months before I learned about it.

My blog has many of the standard features, such as reviews and author interviews/guest blogs. In addition to the reviews that I write, I have Mini Magoo Reviews (reviews for younger readers) and Mama Magoo Reviews (reviews for adults). You can read about those features here. I have author interviews/guest blogs weekly, in a feature I've titled "Saturday's Scribe". You can read a guest blog by Ellen Hopkins, author of Crank, here.

The feature that is unique to my blog- and thus my favorite- is Movie Monday. Every Monday, I make a video out of one of my reviews by reading the review out loud and then laying pictures on top of it. You can see an example- a review video of Thirteen Reasons Why- here. Starting this Monday, I'm also giving away a copy of the book that I make the video out of. This means that I'll be having weekly AND monthly contests, so if you like free books, be sure to visit! =)

Another thing I started this year: I'm keeping track of all the books I read by writing down the title and first line. The next month, I hold a poll where people can vote on the best first line. Click here to vote for January's best first line, and come back in a few days to vote on February's!

If you're a new blogger and need help, please feel free to contact me! I'd be really happy to help! My number one tip, though, is be friendly. Links around the blogosphere are important, and to get those, people need to like you and think of you as a friendly blogger. Also: come up with creative ideas. If your blog is special, it will attract more visitors.

I joined this amazing newsletter to do publisher spotlights. I hope to have the first one up within a couple of weeks, and I hope you enjoy them! =)

So if you have any questions, please leave them in the comments section! I'm so excited to be joining this fabulous newsletter!

Dona at Bites

2009-02-25T10:09:00.000-08:00

I keep it real. Maybe a little too real. Maybe like wet your pants when you're passed out drunk on your friend's floor real (because that doesn't come from a life experience . . . really . . . O_o).

When it comes to writing, I take my gymnast years of training to the table - Are you broke? No? Then shut up, get the ^*(% up and do it again. And I had that form of crazy in my face from the age of 6 to 12. Just in the winter sessions though. Woman was nuts. The thing is, my skin thickened then and little did I know it was preparing me for my future as a writer (at whatever scale that may be).

You know what? This industry is a bitch. Bend over and say 'thank you sir, may I have another?' I'm convinced you have to be a masochist to be a writer because of the beating that your writing, and you as a by product, can take on a daily basis, whether from an outside force or you yourself. You write because you have a story to tell, because you want to see your work in print. And for every fifty rejections you get, you live for that one YES! that'll pay you with publication and author copies. You write to be dredged from the slush pile like a gold nugget from the East River and squeal with joy when the tables turn and your dream agent says I want YOU! You strive for that call that says your book's been sold.

But getting to that point takes a hell of a lot of work (for most) and staying there takes a turtle shell and a hell of a lot of resilience. The thing is though, all of this negative does something (aside from callous your butt). It makes you better. All of those critters saying 'WTF is this?', all of those editors saying 'tweak this' and all of those reviewers saying 'I've seen more substance in a puddle' MAKE YOU A BETTER WRITER.

That's why I review the way I do.

I've been editing and critiquing fiction since high school (broaching ten years now, I'm on the verge of a premature When Harry Met Sally moment, I'm telling you) and I've never wanted anything less than the very truth on my writing. Why? Because that's the only way I'll get better. If it sucks, for the love of god tell me and help me make it better! In turn, I've always offered the same advice to everyone I've edited and critiqued over the years. Published authors are not exempt.

The number of backlashes I've had from such honesty? From the beginning? I can fit them on one hand with fingers to spare. Literally.

Whether they'll see the review or not, I won't know unless they let me know (I know at least one author saw a review I did of his book and it wasn't the most flattering of reviews). But the way I look at it, it's still a learning process, even for them. MOST authors look at their careers in much the same way. It's forever a learning process.

I say what I think about the book as if the person were sitting right in front of me waiting for my reaction to it. And I have done that many times before, and just as honest. Just because I can do it doesn't mean it doesn't sting, either giving or receiving, but it needs to be said. The thing is, as any writer would know, you take what you need and leave the rest behind. If multiple reviewers are saying the same thing, perhaps it's time to take notice. If it's a matter of opinion then they can't do much about that, right?

I devour a book like my dog does his food and if I want to digest it properly for a review, I need to look at it with my critical eye. Some people might not like that. Then they can walk away from it. Some appreciate the honesty. In that case I take payment in pound bags of Jelly Belly jelly beans. But everyone's different. I know the mantra, "If you don't have anything nice to say, then don't say anything at all" but that's murder in writing and detrimental to the entire process. The last thing I'd want anyone to do is pat my head and tell me how special snowflake my writing is. Tear into it, would you? So I give that back as well because I wouldn't want any less for myself. So long as the opinion is substantiated, I don't see the harm.

So go head, sick Butch on me but just remember, I have my own Cujo and he bites back.

My Blog Post

2009-02-23T07:15:00.001-08:00

OMG. I was supposed to do this Saturday but I totally forgot. Sorry! So I'm making it up right now. :)

Anyway, I'm Stephanie from Juiciliciousss Reviews and I've started my blog in November 2008.

Why?

Because I wanted a place where I could jot down my thoughts on books I either liked or disliked AND the free books are also a huge plus. :)

Currently, my blog has a lot of awesome things :).

Contests: there's my bimonthly giveaway [Jan/Feb Giveaway] and my Half Birthday Contest and they both end in less than a week

Author Visits: I have weekly YA author interviews and my next one is with Rachel Vincent, author of the Werecat series.

Reviews: This is where I talk about whether or not I liked that book and gives you suggestions on whether or not you should read it.

Why I joined this awesome newsletter?

Because I wanted a way to get my info out and to share advice to the blogging world.

How to contact me:

Email me at juiciliciousssreviews@gmail.com for any information whatsoever. I tend to respond in less than a day. I'm addicted to email, what can I say?

What your reading take 2 :)

2009-02-20T12:04:00.000-08:00

Hey I need to know what everyone is reading again :)
Thanks guys

Survey- Update time :)

2009-02-18T14:15:00.000-08:00

Two orders of business to discuss.

The first one is contributors. People are wanting to know about you and have your email address. If you would be interested in doing a blog post about you, your blog, email etc. please email me so we can pick a date.

The second one is newsletter format. The first newsletter went out in broshure format. This one is a normal document. As of sunday I will count votes for those two and we will go with the highest voted one. To vote comment here or email me.

Thanks :)

2009-02-17T11:20:00.000-08:00

Book Sites:
Bookdivas: A fantastic site where you can chat with other readers. Bookdivas.com
Ya-Book Swap: A fantastic swapping book site for reviewers.
Teen Reads: A cool site to be updated on different book goings. Teenreads.com
Good Reads: Make your own bookshelf on this fun site.

Authors:

Wendy Toliver is the author of Miss Match which comes out very soon on the 10th of February. She has also written The Secret Life of a Teenage Siren, both of which are young adult romantic comedies. She lives in Eden, Utah with her husband, three little boys, two dogs, cat, crab and occasional mole. And now some interview questions.
Before she turns 16, Sasha Finnegan is moving her dad's SUV down the driveway so she can shoot some hoops. She accidentally runs into a neighbor's car. There's not even a scratch on her dad's truck, but the neighbor's car will need repairs. She works out an agreement with the neighbor to keep the incident under wraps (fearing that if she admitted getting into a wreck, her parents wouldn't let her get her license) and promises to pay for the repairs. But what kind of job can a 15 year-old get to make that kind of money? She decides to start a business using her God-given talent and favorite hobby, matchmaking, to fix high schoolers up with their crushes. However, when an adorable new guy hires Sasha to get him a date with her older, beautiful, popular sister, everything isn't so black-and-white.
What Wendy says:
I've always enjoyed fixing people up, from friends to family members to people I barely met. So I figured other people might enjoy reading a book about a teenager who decides to start a matchmaking business.
I love that I can do what I love (write) while being a stay-at-home mom for my three little boys.

Blog Tips:

· Subscribe to blogs you like. Everyone wants subscribers, so don’t expect people to subscribe if you won’t.
· Post often. I will NEVER subscribe to a blog that only gets posted on every now and then. I don’t care how could you are. I want to be able to read often.

Past Week:

· Teen Troves reviewed Fade, the sequel to Lisa McMann's Wake
"I loved Wake and Fade is an excellent continuation of Janie (and Cabe's) story. It's a fast read and the suspense really draws readers in."
· The Story Siren posted another of her wonderful Books to Pine For features, this one being number twelve. Check it--and all eleven before it--out!
· Medeia from Maelstrom reviewed Carrie Jones's Need "It was pretty much Twilight, but with pixies."
· Jocelyn of Teen Book Review wrote about Sharon Creech's Bloomability, an old favorite that she still finds amazing "...when I was ten, it was enjoyable and inspiring and made me want to see the world. Now, it's still those things but it's also brilliant and meaningful and beautiful in ways I couldn't recognize then."

Newsletter 2 is emailed out Friday! If you wish to receive it VIA email please email me at: princessashley9@gmail.com

Newsletter 1- part 3

2009-02-12T10:25:00.000-08:00

Author Visits

Although posted before this was sent, Ashley had an author visit.
On 2/6 http://myfavoriteauthor.blogspot.com/ had author/agent Lucienne Diver about her book, VAMPED that will be released in May 2009.
Blogger: Adele of Persnickety Snark Site: http://persnicketysnark.blogspot.comAuthor: Simmone Howell (Everything Beautiful and Notes from the Teenage Underground) Week long visit
"11th" Blogger: Stephanie of Juiciliciousss Reviews Site: juiciliciousssreviews.blogspot.com Author: Mary Hogan
"between Feb. 8 – 13" Blogger: Krista of Tower of Books Site: towerofbooks.wordpress.com Author: Lisa Schroeder (I Heart You, You Haunt Me, Far From You)
Lexi of anotherpageisused.blogspot.com has Lisa, author of Wake.

Reviews:

Booksaremylove.blogspot.com will have a review for A Girl like Me.
Booksaremylove.blogspot.com will post a review of a Poetry Book.
Booksaremylove.blogspot.com will have a review of Confessions of a Shopaholic.
http://myfavoriteauthor.blogspot.com/ has a review of GLASS HOUSES by Rachel Caine

The UK Book:

Solace of the Road by Siobhan Dowd.
Pub. date: 5th Feb
Format: Hardcover
On Amazon UK: here.
Memories of Mum are the only thing that make Holly Hogan happy. She hates her foster family with their too-nice ways and their false sympathy. And she hates her life, her stupid school and the way everyone is always on at her. Then she finds the wig, and everything changes. Wearing the long, flowing blonde locks she feels transformed. She's not Holly any more, she's Solace: the girl with the slinkster walk and the super-sharp talk. She's older, more confident - the kind of girl who can walk right out of her humdrum life, hitch to Ireland and find her mum. The kind of girl who can face the world head on. So begins a bittersweet, and sometimes hilarious journey as Solace swaggers and Holly tiptoes across England and through memory, discovering her true self, and unlocking the secrets of her past. "Solace of the Road" is a wonderful novel from one of the UK's most talented new writers for teenagers. Holly's story will leave a lasting impression on all who travel with her.
This is the fourth book from UK author Siobhan Dowd, who sadly passed away in 2007. It was left written but un-published, and has garnered excellent press reviews in the UK so far. The cover was enough to peak my interest, and I look forward to reading the last remaining work of a much respected author

The read Carpet:

In the past month, several bloggers have been grappling with audio recording programs to create a segment for The Read Carpet Podcast. The intent was to provide a bi-weekly podcast that encompasses everything YA related from a range of people really passionate about the genre. Eventually we would like to host round table discussions, contests and author interviews.
It's a collaborative project where contributors speak about a certain area of the YA world. We are building a rotating roster of contributors that will have a monthly segment on anything from debut authors, well known texts, the relationship between music and YA, Australian authors and comics.
We are really excited about the possibilities for this podcast. Individuals already involved were people that I knew of from my newbie YA blogging experience. So if you would like to be involved, please contact me asap.
Episodes are available at http://thereadcarpet.podbean.com and you can reach Adele at Persnickety Snark or thereadpodcast@gmail.com
On the 30th of January, The Read Podcast was ready to share.

Blogger Spotlights:

· Katie will be spotlighted at booksaremylove.blogspot.com
· Amanda will be spotlighted at booksaremylove.blogspot.com
Right here in the newsletter we have an amazing Blogger! Everyone who is anyone has visited the Story Siren’s Blog! Stephanie W. interviewed her. Here is what she has to say:
I sort of fell into the whole reviewing thing. I saw some book blogs online (The Page Flipper and Teen Book Review) and I thought.... "hmmm I should/could do that." Like most reviewers, I love to read, obviously. I was always asked "what are you reading now," "what do you think about (insert title here)," "have you read (insert title here)" so I just decided to put my thoughts down, and so my blog was born.
Now when I started reviewing, I had no idea there was something called an ARC, I would have never thought to email an author, and the whole free books thing, who knew?! I started reviewing books I had bought and books I checked out at the library and my blog just sort of grew from there. I never expected to have people besides my friends and family visit. I'm actually a little intimidated about my friends and family knowing about it, so only a few do, I feel more comfortable with people I don't know!!
I just LOVE YA! I think maybe it might have something to do with the fact that there really wasn't many YA novels like there are now, when I was a teen. By the time I was the age to read YA, I was reading adult novels. To further explain my love of YA you can check out this post: http://www.thestorysiren.com/2009/01/truth-about-me-why-i-read-ya.html
My favorite thing about blogging is meeting authors and other book lovers! It fun to find people as enthusiastic as you are about books. I know I drive my family crazy talking about them all the time, they think I'm nuts at this point. And with my blog I've met so many people I know I wouldn't have otherwise, from all over the world. It is such a phenomenal thing!
Really traffic is all about networking and content. When I first started I made a MySpace page for my site. There are a lot of authors you can network with and a lot of readers! I also was active on bookish sites like RandomBuzzers forums, BookDivas forums, it's also a good idea to visit other bloggers and leave relevant comments on their posts. I almost always {visit?} a commenter's site. Try to update regularly too, obviously people aren't going to keep coming back if you haven't updated your content in a month.
I have a lot of blogging tips. Not that I'm an expert but I've picked up a few things along the way. Here is a quote from a guest post I did about tips for book bloggers:
An important aspect is the design of your site. Pick a color scheme that fits your voice! Make sure that your color scheme is easy to read and easy on the eyes. Don't make your font to small either. People won't bother reading your reviews if they can't see them! Try to make a header that portrays your site. It doesn't have to be fancy.
Music or not to music. I know there are a lot of bloggers out there that have music on their site and if you want it I'm all for it. I know that personally I get distracted by music when I try to read so I end up finding the music player right away and turning it off. So, maybe if you have a music player, make it an option to turn it on, instead of turning it off.
Don't Make commenting hard on your readers. There isn't anything more frustrating than having to jump through hoops when you want to leave a comment. I have a lot of comments and I've never had excessive trouble with spammers. Maybe once or twice every 8 months
or so. So, please give us a break and turn that verification crap off!
Get ideas from your neighbors. I know that I was one of the first if not the first blogger to have the "What I'm Reading Now" element with a picture of the book I'm currently reading, and also the "In My Reading Pile" slideshow. And personally I think it's cool that other bloggers started doing it! When I started having my theme element icons in my reviews, I had another fellow blogger ask me if she could use the idea as well, needless to say I was flattered that she liked the idea that much. So, why not ask your blogger neighbor if you can use their cool idea, what have you got to lose!
Try to make your blog stand out! Offer something that no one else has. My stand out element is my weekly Author Tales. Yes, it is a lot of working sometimes tracking down authors, asking if they would be willing and then of course actually getting the author post, but it is also a very critical component to my site!
Having a contest is always a sure way to draw visitors. Most of the time I supply the prizes in my contest, but every once in a while if you are lucky you can get an author to donate a book for a prize!
On writing reviews: There isn't a wrong or right way to write a review. You can try to be professional if you want or you can be more laid back. You just need to find the style that is right for you and not necessarily worry about what other people think. Write something that you would want to read, most of the time that's what your readers would want to read too. You don't have to write an essay to get your point across either, unless of course it takes you an adequate length to get your point across. Write the length that you are comfortable writing. Maybe you'll start out writing short reviews and then once you are more comfortable with your writing, your reviews can grow.
I'm going to stop there before I go overboard. Thanks for having me!
I’d really like to thank the Story Siren for taking the time to be interviewed.

Newsletter 1: Part 2

2009-02-10T11:26:00.000-08:00

New Bloggers:

These bloggers either have few followers, few posts or are actually new in time period:

Erica’s Bookshelf: Erica is Ashley’s little sister. Her blog tends to lean more toward younger fiction. Visit her here: http://ericasbookshelf.blogspot.com/

Lost in Lit: She has only posted once so far so I can’t tell you her writing style at the moment. Visit her blog: http://lostinlit.blogspot.com/

Korianne Speaks: Her blog is sort of new but I wanted to get it out more because it’s great! http://koriannespeaks.blogspot.com/

Cool Feature:

I’m sure you’ve seen this great new feature around the blogs. Most people call it “In My Mail Box” although I call it “Weekly Mail Call”. I have to say I have been enjoying it. I get great ideas based on what people have been receiving. Needless to say, My Amazon list is long.

Contests:

Visit The Story Siren at this link to find out about an incredible deal. A free E-Book and a contest. Wow! http://www.thestorysiren.com/2009/01/free-e-book-rangers-apprentice-ruins-of.html

Sleepless author, Terri Clark is having a First in the Series Contest. Up for grabs are FOUR paranormal novels. Contest ends Feb. 13. http://blogs.myspace.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=blog.view&friendID=64985862&blogID=467109044

This week, Lauren at Shooting Stars Mag interviewed the band Zomo. Along with the interview are TWO Zomo cd's up for grabs. There's nothing better than a new sound/beat to groove to. Contest ends Feb. 7 and it's totally INTERNATIONAL http://shootingstarsmag.blogspot.com/2009/01/zomo-interview-contest.html

Author Sarah MacLean interviewed Stacey Jay in honor of her latest release, You Are So Undead To Me. Along with some crazy questions, and even crazier answers, there's an YASUTMou T-Shirt up for grabs.
http://www.macleanspace.com/2009/01/meet-stacey-jay-and-win-cool-stuff.html

Amanda over at Review A Book is giving away a copy of Revolutionary Road by Richard Yates. And this is a special edition copy with the film cover art. http://reviewabook123.blogspot.com/2009/01/new-contest.html

Mrs. Magoo Reads is also giving away a copy of Revolutionary Road by Richard Yates. The contest is set to end on Feb. 20, but it might change. Better get those entries in ASAP just in case. http://www.mrsmagooreads.com/2009/01/contest-win-copy-of-revolutionary-road.html

Em over at Em's Boolshelf is having her Senstaional Seven Book Contest. One grand prize winner will revcieve SEVEN books while the runner up gets THREE. A winner will be selected on Feb. 12. http://emsbookshelf.blogspot.com/2009/01/winter-book-give-away-contest-2009.html

Lauren over at Shooting Stars Mag is hosting a Harry Potter Week including a "mini contest of sorts." So head on over there through out the week to see what you can find. http://shootingstarsmag.blogspot.com/2009/01/harry-potter-week-catherine-ryan-hyde.html

Yan over at Books By Their Cover has been having a PARTY in honor of Chinese New Year. Everyday there's been a guest author along with a contest, most of them being INTERNATIONAL! The end dates range from Feb. 7 to Feb. 30. http://booksbytheircover.blogspot.com/

At lindagerber.blogspot.com starting Monday, February 9 thru Valentine's Day is LOVE FEST week. YA romance authors Tina Ferraro (THE ABCs of KISSING BOYS), Simone Elkeles (PERFECT CHEMISTRY), Melissa Walker (LOVESTRUCK SUMMER), Wendy Toliver (MISS MATCH), Sasha Watson (VIDALIA IN PARIS) and myself (DEATH BY DENIM) will be fielding questions on Romance and Relationships and giving away signed books and other goodies.
Some goodies (vampire books) will be given away (every week) at: http://myfavoriteauthor.blogspot.com/

Harmony over at Harmony Book Reviews has a HUGE list. All ending February 7.
--Models Don't Eat Chocolate Chip Cookies by Erin Dionne.
--Eon: Dragoneye Reborn by Alison Goodman
--Because I Am Furniture by Thalia Chaltas and a Razorbill T-Shirt
--Willow by Julia Hoban http://harmonybookreviews.wordpress.com/2009/01/31/final-giveaway-willow-by-julia-hoban/

Steph over at Steph Su Reads is giving away a February release of YOUR CHOICE, as long as you're the winner.ends February 12. http://stephsureads.blogspot.com/2009/02/my-first-ever-contest-giveaway-love-for.html

Taylor over at For The Love of Books is giving away Wintergirls by Laurie Halse Anderson ends on February 15. http://fortheloveofbooksblog.blogspot.com/2009/01/my-very-first-contest.html

Laina over at Laina Has Too Much Spare Time is giving away a SIGNED copy of Across The Pong by Storyheart ends February 15. http://lainahastoomuchsparetime.blogspot.com/2009/02/my-first-contest.html

Stephanie from Juiciliciousss Reviews is giving away a copy of The House on Tradd Street by Karen Whiteends February 28. http://juiciliciousssreviews.blogspot.com/2009/01/januaryfebruary-giveaway.html IT'S INTERNATIONAL.

Sophie over at Mrs. Magoo Reads is giving away FOUR Fabulous Novels ends February 28. http://www.mrsmagooreads.com/2009/02/contest-win-four-fabulous-novels.html

Newsletter 1-

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*I will be posting part of newsletter 1 everyday until it is all up, there will be no pictures unlike the newsletter*

What’s going on around the blog world?

If you have a friend who would like to receive the newsletter email: princessashley9@gmail.com

Who's Who?

Ashley and Erica T. is Putting the stuff together.
Laina and Megan Z. are Doing Author Visits.
Renne, Lisette, Jessica and Lexi are doing new and upcoming books.
Jenny D. is doing UK Books.

Jessica J is doing publishers spotlight.
Katie J. is finding new bloggers.
Hope, Lauren R. and Nadine are finding contests.
Taylor S. is alerting of upcoming reviews.
Stephanie W is spotlighting a blogger.

New/ Upcoming releases:

North of Beautiful by Justina Chen Headley on February 1st
Jessica's Guide to Dating on the Dark Side by Beth Fantaskey on February 1st

The undead can really screw up your senior year . . .

Marrying a vampire definitely doesn’t fit into Jessica Packwood’s senior year “get-a-life” plan. But then a bizarre (and incredibly hot) new exchange student named Lucius Vladescu shows up, claiming that Jessica is a Romanian vampire princess by birth—and he’s her long-lost fiancé. Armed with newfound confidence and a copy of Growing Up Undead: A Teen Vampire’s Guide to Dating, Health, and Emotions, Jessica makes a dramatic transition from average American teenager to glam European vampire princess. But when a devious cheerleader sets her sights on Lucius, Jess finds herself fighting to win back her wayward prince, stop a global vampire war—and save Lucius’s soul from eternal destruction.

Evermore by Alyson Noel on February 3rd
Geek Charming by Robyn Palmer on February 5th
Vampire Diaries: The Return: Nightfall by LJ Smith around February 10th
Fade by Lisa McMann on February 10th
Eternal by Cynthia Leitich Smith on February 10th
Daughter of the Flames by Zoe Marriott on February 10th
Absolutely Maybe by Lisa Yee on February 1st
The Fetch by Laura Whitcomb on February 2nd
Gifted: out of sight, out of mind by Marilyn Kaye on February 2nd
Raven by Allison Van Diepen on February 10th
Lost in Las Vegas by Melody Carlson
My Life from Air Bras to Zits by Barbara Haworth-Attard
The Spring of Candy Apples by Debbie Viquie
Family Affairs by Jen Calonita

What are you reading?

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I need to know what everyone is reading! Please comment!
Thanks, Ashley

Welcome

2009-02-07T15:18:00.000-08:00

This is the blog to go with our newsletter. Issue one is out. Great work guys. People involved with writing it will be added as writers here. Others can comment :) Let us know whats up at your blog