2012 July Book Roundup

So it's been a while. *cough* I read some books last month though . . . and you know what that means: Book Roundup time!

If you are unaware: At the beginning of each month I do a quick review the books I read the month prior. But instead of letting myself get too wordy, each book gets a Twitter-length summary and a Twitter-length review. Genres are listed at the beginning of the reviews and my absolute favorites of the month are marked with a star (★).

Please Ignore Vera Dietz by AS King

YA Contemporary Fiction--When Vera's best friend Charlie Kahn dies in questionable circumstances, she's the only one that can clear his name. But does she even want to? § Cute, quirky, and a punch to the face. Vera is such a complex character: she loves and hates and accepts how she can feel both at the same time. ★

Essential Avengers Vol. 2 by Stan Lee, Roy Thomas, and Don Heck

Comic--One day "Earth's Mightiest Heroes" found themselves united against a common foe, and the Avengers were born. And then they fought more evil. § Still silly and still dated. Love it though. Also, Hawkeye learns some humility and won a place in my heart for his ridiculous one-liners.

As You Wish by Jackson Pearce

YA Paranormal?!--Brokenhearted Viola accidentally summons a genie into her world, but can't commit to her wishes, lest she make a stupid mistake. Also, romance. § This is a cute/fluffy story, though Viola's angst was rough for me at first. But once things started rolling, it was a fun read to the finish.

2012 June Book Roundup

*dun dun dun dun* Book Roundup time!

If you are unaware: At the beginning of each month I do a quick review the books I read the month prior. But instead of letting myself get too wordy, each book gets a Twitter-length summary and a Twitter-length review. Genres are listed at the beginning of the reviews and my absolute favorites of the month are marked with a star (★).

Cinder by Marissa Meyer

YA Sci-fi--Lunar Chronicles #1. Cinder is a cyborg mechanic and second class citizen in New Beijing. Also, plagues, princes, people on the moon, and mind powers! § Not a huge fan of Cinderella, so this was MUCH BETTER than I expected. Loved the world building, but the twist at the end was a little obvious. ★

Code Name Verity by Elizabeth Wein

YA Historical Fiction--When "Verity" is arrested by the Gestapo, she's given a choice: reveal her secrets or die miserably. She choses to confess in written form. § Ultimately, this is a story about friendship, which is kinda rare for YA. It's also written beautifully. And Verity and Maddie are both awesome. ★

Essential Avengers Vol. 1 by Stan Lee, Jack Kirby, and Don Heck

Comic--One day "Earth's Mightiest Heroes" found themselves united against a common foe, and the Avengers were born. And then they fought more evil. § Pahaha, these comics are so silly and so dated. It took a little while for me to get into it, but I love how cranky and dramatic everyone acts.

Shadow and Bone by Leigh Bardugo

YA Fantasy--When Alina Starkov's regiment is attacked crossing the Fold, she reveals a rare power that might be the key to saving her country's future. § Such a quick and delightful read! The work of Ravka is dark and gruesome and just plain nifty, but I the love triangle just felt weird. ★

Cloudette by Tom Lichtenheld

Picture Book--Cloudette is small for a cloud, but she's okay with that because it has its advantages. But what about when she wants to do something big? § This book was super cute. The messages rocks, the illustrations are perfect, and there are a bunch of little asides that pile on the extra charm.

Pat the Zombie by Aaron Ximm

Picture Book--A macabre re-telling of the children's classic Pat the Bunny, but with zombies. Instead of patting the bunny, you're patting its innards. § Amusing, as the minor changes made quite a difference, but lacked substance. I doubt this would be funny to anyone who never read the original.

This is Not a Test by Courtney Summers

YA Apocalyptic Fiction--It's the zombie apocalypse and six students have taken cover in the local high school. To Sloane, this seems like the perfect time to give up. § There is SO much sadness and anger in this book and it is all handled SO well. I love the situation. I love the characters. I just love it all. ★

2012 May Book Roundup

It's the first of June, and you know what that means. Book Roundup! *thumbs up*

A quick primer: At the beginning of each month I do a quick review the books I read the month prior. But instead of letting myself get too wordy, each book gets a Twitter-length summary and a Twitter-length review. Genres are listed at the beginning of the reviews and my absolute favorites of the month are marked with a star (★).

The Exiled Queen by Cinda Williams Chima

YA Fantasy--Seven Realms #2. Han and Raisa are both on their way to Oden's Ford, one to discover his heritage and the other to hide from her enemies. § I had problems caring about Raisa because everything Han did was far more interesting. Of course, most of the book felt like setup for later.

The Gray Wolf Throne by Cinda Williams Chima

YA Fantasy--Seven Realms #3. Oden's Ford isn't safe anymore, and now it's time for Han to discover the truth and for Raisa to take her place as queen. § This was Raisa's book. Sure, Han's a manipulative badass, but Raisa steps up and becomes worthy of her heritage and title. Can't wait for book 4!

Ultraviolet by RJ Anderson
YA Sci-fi--Ultraviolet #1. Alison has been institutionalized after she has a frightening psychotic break and admits to murdering a fellow classmate. § Alison has synesthesia, which makes for beautiful and horrifying prose that's just fun to read. The plot line is also delightfully mysterious. ★

Black Heart by Holly Black
YA Urban Fantasy--Curse Workers #3. Cassel's a lot of things, but "good" has never been one of them. Now he needs to decide between love, family, and the con. § Cassel really does have some tough choices, but I love his decisions and how he balances the truths and lies. Also, Lila is still a badass.

Wildwood by Colin Meloy
MG Fantasy--Wildwood #1. When a murder of crows from the "Impassable Wilderness" kidnap Prue's baby brother, she must explore a hidden world and save him. § This book is like a folky, American Narnia set in Portland, OR. The pacing was a little slow, but the world was delightful and and adventurous.

Habibi by Craig Thompson
Graphic Novel--The story of Dodola and Zam, two child slaves struggling to survive in a world consumed by fear, lust, and greed. Also, calligraphy and sex. § Gorgeous artwork and webs of symbolism that warrant multiple reads. Not that pleasant to read though, so definitely for mature audiences only. ★

Where the Mountain Meets the Moon by Grace Lin
MG Fantasy--Inspired by her father's stories, Minli sets off an a fantastic journey to find the Old Man of the Moon and change her family's poor fortune. § Fairy tales within fairy tails! *flail* Minli is adorable and her adventure is beautifully interwoven with her society's unique folklore. ★

Gate 7 Vol. 1 by CLAMP
Manga--An simple sightseeing trip to Kyoto becomes something more when Chikahito stumbles into a world of elemental magic and historical warfare. § Some interesting potential, but the story was incredibly confusing (and I'm familiar with Japanese history) and reminded me too much of xxxHolic.

Gate 7 Vol. 2 by CLAMP
Manga--Now that Chikahito lives with Hana and her companions, it's only a matter of time before he is drawn into their war over the powerful oni. § This volume was a bit better, if only because we got character development. Still a bit confusing, but I'm interested to see what happens next.

Under the Never Sky by Veronica Rossi
YA Post-apocalyptic--Under the Never Sky #1. After being exiled from the enclosed city of Reverie, Aria's only hope for survival is in Perry, a savage Outsider. § People with heightened senses, a post-apocalyptic society with technology, and survival drama! If anything, I want even more world building. ★

2012 April Book Roundup

*dun dun dun dun* It's time for April's Book Roundup! *cheers* A quick primer: At the beginning of each month I do a quick review the books I read the month prior. But instead of letting myself get too wordy, each book gets a Twitter-length summary and a Twitter-length review. Genres are listed at the beginning of the reviews and my absolute favorites of the month are marked with a star (★).

Monsters of Men by Patrick Ness

YA Sci-fi--Chaos Walking #3. Now that humanity is at war with the Spackle again, Todd and Viola must make the right decisions in they ever want peace again. § THESE BOOKS. I've never read something so frustrating and so wonderful at the same time. However, best fictional horses EVER and yay 1017 POV! ★

Hourglass by Myra McEntire
YA Paranormal Romance--Emerson is plagued by phantoms of the past, which isn't all that great until her brother calls in the Hourglass organization. Enter le hot boy. § Emerson's voice is a fabulous combination of snark and charm. Loved it. However, the soap opera romance kinda overwhelmed the actual plot.

Wither by Lauren DeStephano
YA Post Apocalyptic--Chemical Garden #1. After genetic experiments ruined the future of humanity, Rhine is kidnapped and wed off to repopulate the world. She is displeased. § Such a pleasant surprise! ALL of the characters are well-developed, if not likable, and the atmosphere was hauntingly beautiful and creepy. ★

Fever by Lauren DeStephano
YA Post Apocalyptic--Chemical Garden #2. Rhine and Gabriel have finally gotten away from the mansion, but freedom might not be worth it in this a world like this. § Haha, the physical world here makes no sense at all, but the prose and narration are so delightfully luscious/feverish that I don't care.

Corsets & Clockwork: 14 Steampunk Romances edited by Trisha Telep
YA Steampunk Anthology--The title says it all: a short story anthology that brings together the quirkiness of steampunk and the delight of young romance. *thumbs up* § I'm not so sure that most of the stories in this anthology count as steampunk, but they all have romance. All my kudos to "Tick, Tick, Boom."

Where Things Come Back by John Corey Whaley
YA Fiction--Cullen thinks he's got life figured out, but when an extinct woodpecker is rediscovered and his brother goes missing, everything falls apart. § Everything in this book starts off mellow, but ends up somewhere meaningful. Loved how all of the characters felt real and a little disastrous.

2012 March Book Roundup

Book Roundup time . . . weee! A quick primer: At the beginning of each month I do a quick review the books I read the month prior. But instead of letting myself get too wordy, each book gets a Twitter-length summary and a Twitter-length review. Genres are listed at the beginning of the reviews and my absolute favorites of the month are marked with a star (★).

Looking for Alaska by John Green
YA Contemporary Fiction--Pudge is off to an Alabama boarding school to search for his "Great Perhaps." There he meets the smart, sexy, and self-destructive Alaska Young. § This book is the better version of Paper Towns. Love how Green tackles the hard issues, but wish his characters didn't sound college-age.

Witch Eyes by Scott Tracy

YA Paranormal Romance--Braden was born with witch eyes and can see the world as it truly is. Also, horrific visions, feuding witch clans, and crazy power plays. § A very refreshing read--the magic was unique and the gay romance was handled nicely. Though, battle sequences were a bit confusing at times. ★

Pretty Guardian Sailor Moon Vol. 4 by Naoko Takeuchi

Manga--Usagi is the guardian of justice--Sailor Moon! The Dark Moon is here to take over the world with the malefic dark crystal! Also, revelations! § This story arc is much more exciting than the last one ... also, character development! Feelings! Dramatic happenings! All the good stuff!

Legend by Marie Lu

YA Dystopian--June is a military prodigy who's been groomed for success since birth; Day is the country's most wanted criminal. Insert dystopian agenda. § So much military goodness and a dystopian world that felt and acted dangerous! The instant romance was unfortunate, but I guess it worked.

The Ask and the Answer by Patrick Ness

YA Sci-fi--Chaos Walking #2. After fleeing into the clutches of Mayor Prentiss, Todd and Viola are separated and used against each other. Also, misery. § Ugh, this is such a dark, miserable read, though the atmosphere is perfectly appropriate. Ness is a master at playing with my sympathies. ★

An Abundance of Katherines by John Green
YA Contemporary Fiction--After Katherine XIX breaks up with him, noted prodigy Colin and his best friend Hassan are off on a road trip of self-discovery and worth. § Haha, Colin's thought-process is so ridiculous it's fabulous. In fact, I love all characters. But the epiphanies got heavy-handed at the end.

Purity (ARC Copy) by Jackson Pearce
YA Contemporary Fiction--When Shelby's father becomes organizer of the annual Princess Ball, the three promises she made at her mother's deathbed become hard to keep. § Liked this a WHOLE lot more than expected. Some pretty deep themes here--love, loss, and sex--but they're all handled nicely. Go pick up a copy! ★

Johnny Wander Vol. 1: Don't Burn the House Down by Ananth Panagariya and Yuko Ota
Comic--A collection of autobiographical, "slice of life" strip comics about life after college, finding out who you are, and surviving the modern world. § These comics are always a pleasure to read (hint: I've recommended them to you before). Not only are they clever, but they're easily relatable.

Johnny Wander Vol. 2: Escape to New York by Ananth Panagariya and Yuko Ota
Comic--Again: a collection of autobiographical, "slice of life" strip comics about life after college, finding out who you are, and surviving the modern world. § Haha, more cat comics in this volume, so I was definitely happy. Also, I think the comic gets a bit more of a refined direction, which is nice.

The Demon King by Cinda Williams Chima
YA Fantasy--Seven Realms #1. After encountering underage wizards, Han gets ahold of a forbidden amulet. Also, Princess Raisa, longs to escape her gilded cage. § Now this is some high fantasy! Started off a little slow, but it takes place in a Yellowstone-esque area and the politics get pretty interesting.

2012 February Book Roundup

*fizzle crackle sputter*

. . .  and now for Book Roundup time! For those who don't know, at the beginning of each month I do a quick review the books I read the month prior. But instead of letting myself get too wordy, each book gets a Twitter-length summary and a Twitter-length review. Genres are listed at the beginning of the reviews and my absolute favorites of the month are marked with a star (★).

Pretty Guardian Sailor Moon Vol. 3 by Naoko Takeuchi
Manga--Usagi is the guardian of justice--Sailor Moon! It's time for the final battle against Queen Metalia: the enemy of old. Also, a mysterious girl. § Artistically confusing in the beginning and packed with some odd translation choices. However, I really enjoyed the start of the next story arc.

The Girl of Fire and Thorns by Rae Carson

YA Fantasy--Lucero-Elisa is an unlikely heroine, but she bears the Godstone. Savage enemies, secret political marriages, and charming revolutionaries. § Much love to how unheroic Elisa is at first, but not hugely comfy with the statement her transformation makes. Also, glorious world building. ★

The Knife of Never Letting Go by Patrick Ness

YA Sci-fi--Chaos Walking #1. Todd lives in Prentisstown, where everyone can hear everyone else's thoughts. However, Prentisstown also has a terrible secret. § Ouch. This book hurts, but the thought put into Prentisstown's history was worth it. Wish the villain had been less energizer bunny though. ★

The Assassin and the Pirate Lord by Sarah J Maas

YA Fantasy--Calaena's off to collect a debt the Lord of Pirates owes the Assassin's Guild. But when the payment is to be made in slaves, her mission changes. § A fun story that definitely got me excited for the next three novellas and the book in August. Celaena's definitely tough and I love her sass! ★

The Fault in Our Stars by John Green

YA Contemporary Fiction--Diagnosed with Stage IV thyroid cancer at 12 and miraculously saved at 14, 16-year-old Hazel is still "alive." Then she meets Augustus Waters. § Sad, yet fabulous. Loved how it was a book with cancer, not a cancer book. I only wish that certain sections didn't read like an English paper.

The Name of the Star by Maureen Johnson

YA Paranormal Fantasy--Rory's off to London for her last year of high school. Unfortunately there's a murderer on the loose and he's mimicking Jack the Ripper. § This book is nothing like the cover suggests ... for one thing, it's modern day. Anyway, Rory's a fun character to follow, as is the murderer.

Voila, my lovely February books. :) So did you guys read anything particularly exciting? Or have you read any of these books before? Tell me in the comments.

2012 January Book Roundup

Being that it's 2012, it's time for the book roundup rules to change a little.

Previously I was doing Twitter-length reviews. I like this plan because it let me express my thoughts succinctly, but it started to get difficult to give a brief plot overview AND a review in 140 characters. So now I'm going to give you twice the goodness. That's right. 140 characters of book summary and 140 characters of review. This way I'll be able to stick to bite-sized reviews without denying you guys the meat of the matter.

Other than that, everything the same. Genres are listed at the beginning of the reviews and my absolute favorites of the month are marked with a star (★).

Dreadnought by Cherie Priest

Steampunk--Mercy's husband is dead and when her dying father summons her to Seattle, there's nothing to keep her. Civil war schemes and zombies ahoy. § This book is fabulous. Not only is Mercy a strong character, but she's interesting too and her environment is full of excitement and intrigue. ★

A Discovery of Witches by Deborah Harkness

Paranormal--Diana Bishop is a witch who wishes she wasn't. Then she stumbles upon a lost manuscript, and catches the attention of the paranormal world. § This book. Starts off. So slow. Also, there are a lot of complex and fascinating ideas in play here, but I really didn't like the love interest.

A Million Suns by Beth Revis

YA Sci-fi--Sequel to Across the Universe. It's been 3 months since Amy was unplugged and Elder assumed leadership. Too bad there are more lies to uncover. § Painful to read ... but in a good (and hard to put down) way! Revis has woven a claustrophobic web of disaster that can't help getting worse. ★

Hex Hall by Rachel Hawkins

YA Urban Fantasy--Sophie Mercer is a witch who's been sent to Hex Hall--a reform school for paranormals. Unfortunately for her, someone's been targeting witches. § Sophie is delightfully sassy and it's great to see a paranormal that doesn't take itself too seriously. However, nothing really stood out.

I Am the Messenger by Markus Zusak

YA Fiction--Ed Kennedy is just a deadbeat cabdriver. But after he inadvertently stops a bank robbery, the Aces start arriving and he must become a messenger. § Ack, Zusak is excellent at making you care about ALL of his characters--major, minor, whatever. Inspirational and a total pleasure to read. ★

And there you guys go--the first five books I read during 2012! So, are you guys going to start up any reading goals? And what books have you read thus far? Tell me in the comments!

December Book Roundup

After much toil and heartache and many hours spent staring at words, I successfully read 100 books and have thus completed my Goodreads 2011 Reading Challenge! Woo!

Anyway, let's get onto the book roundup. For the uninitiated: At the beginning of each month I do Twitter-length reviews of the books I read during the month prior. Genres are listed at the beginning of the reviews and my absolute favorites are marked with a star (★).

700 Sundays by Billy Crystal

Memoir--Amusing vignettes on life, love, and family. Honest and personable and full of Crystal's voice. Kinda wish there was an audio book version though.

The Unbecoming of Mara Dyer by Michelle Hodkin

YA Paranormal Romance--Mara wakes from a horrific accident and can't remember what happened. Delightfully creepy and mysterious, but I hoped it'd be a stand-alone.

Shotgun Gravy: An Atlanta Burns Novella by Chuck Wendig

YA Noir--Atlanta's been drawn into a battle against high school bullies. Dark, gritty, and full of badassery. Also, Atlanta's very much a girl, which rocks. ★

Paper Towns by John Green
YA Contemporary Fiction--Margo is a mystery, and Q is going to figure her out. Lots of great ideas on what it means to be a person, but I didn't relate to the characters.

Toradora! Vol. 1 by Yuyuko Takemiya (Baka-Tsuki translation)
Light Novel--Ryuuji's a normal kid who looks like a ganster and Taiga's a doll-sized girl with attitude. Cute romantic comedy, but holy jarring translation, Batman.

Plain Kate by Erin Bow
YA Fantasy--Plain Kate is just a talented wood carver, but everyone thinks she's a witch. This story is compelling from the first page. Also, a talking cat. ★

And there you guys go--the last six books I read during 2011! So, did you guys have any reading goals, and, if so, did you have the pleasure of meeting them? What was the last book that you read this year? Tell me in the comments!

November Book Roundup

Well, I didn't read much in this past month thanks to NaNoWriMo. Actually . . . I didn't read anything at all until I got my 50,000 words out of the way. But what I did read was relatively exciting.

Oh, and if you're curious, this is my monthly book roundup post. In other words: At the beginning of each month I do Twitter-length reviews of the books I read during the month prior. Genres are listed at the beginning of the reviews and my absolute favorites are marked with a star (★).

Ashes by Ilsa J Bick

YA Post-apocalyptic--EMPs and zombies and super powers and cults! This book is weirdly bi-polar. Loved the first half, but then it went downhill. Also, WTF cliffhanger?

Pretty Guardian Sailor Moon Vol. 2 by Naoko Takeuchi

Manga--Usagi is the guardian of justice--Sailor Moon! Story gets a bit darker in this volume, but the romance is lovely and we get some background info.

The Immorality Engine by George Mann

Steampunk Mystery--Newbury & Hobbes #3. Steampunk Victorian England takes a dark and relatively unexpected twist in this volume. Also, Veronica is STILL awesome. ★

The Scorpio Races by Maggie Stiefvater
YA Contemporary Fantasy--The Scorpio Races are brutal, thrilling, and both Sean and Puck must win. Holy crap I love Stiefvater's water horses and her beautiful prose. ★

Miss Peregrine's Home for Peculiar Children by Ransom Riggs
YA Contemporary Fantasy--Tragedy strikes and as a result, Jacob's gonna unearth his grandfather's past. Haunting photos ... with a story that doesn't really match up.

See, not too shabby. I also find it kind of entertaining how most of the covers fall under a muted color palette. Anyway, what did you guys read? Or did you get any reading done at all? Tell me in the comments.

October Book Roundup

Book Roundup time!

If you're new to the process, here's the book roundup lowdown: At the beginning of each month I do Twitter-length reviews of the books I read during the month prior. Genres are listed at the beginning of the reviews and my absolute favorites are marked with a star (★).

Pretty easy, right? So let's get to the meaty bits already:

Pretty Guardian Sailor Moon Vol. 1 by Naoko Takeuchi

Manga--Usagi is the guardian of justice--Sailor Moon! Typical magical girl storyline, but this "renewal edition" rocks despite some awkward translations.

Forever by Maggie Stiefvater
YA Paranormal Romance--Conclusion of The Wolves of Mercy Falls trilogy. Still full of fantastic character voices and a romance that doesn't make you want to gag.

Goliath by Scott Westerfeld
YA Steampunk--Final Leviathan installment. Barking spiders, this book rocks. Clankers, beasties, history, romance, perspicacious lorises! Such a fitting end. ★

The Book Thief by Markus Zusak
YA Historical Fiction--Munich, Nazis, and a girl who steals books--all deliciously narrated by Death. This story made me bawl, which never happens. Just go read this. ★

Zombie in Love by Kelly DiPucchio (illustrations by Scott Campbell)
Picture Book--Mortimer the zombie is looking for love. This is pretty much the cutest thing EVER, and the illustrations are fantastic. Worms = adorable! ★

Wildefire by Karsten Knight
YA Urban Fantasy--Ashline is reincarnated goddess and her sister is a psychopath. THIS is how you write a pantheon story! Also, second person narration FTW.

Flash Burnout by LK Madigan
YA Fiction--Blake is caught between the girl who loves him and the girl who needs him. STRONG. MALE. TEENAGE. VOICE. The kind of voice that keeps you reading.

October was a fun month for me. :) Was it fun for you guys? Read anything fun or wonderful? Or have you had the joy of reading any of the books that I read? Tell me in the comments.

September Book Roundup (UPDATED!)

ETA (10/013/11): Oops, I forgot to list a book because I read it in the bookstore. Review and cover picture added for posterity.

September was a bit of a slow reading month for me, but I don't really care, since I got to read Laini Taylor's Daughter of Smoke & Bone . . . which is a book that I've been waiting for since it was announced. It's always wonderful to finally get your hands on those highly-anticipated books, you know?

Moving on. If you happen to be new, here's the book roundup lowdown: At the beginning of each month I do Twitter-length reviews of the books I read during the month prior. Genres are listed at the beginning of the reviews and my absolute favorites are marked with a star (★).

Simple, yeah? So here are the lucky books of the month:

The Monstrumologist by Rick Yancey

YA Horror--Dr. Warthrop studies monsters and Will Henry is his apprentice. The first half drags and everything is SUPER dark, but an interesting read.

Before I Fall by Lauren Oliver
YA Fiction--Samantha relives her last day seven times. READ THIS BOOK. It's so much more than I imaged. Heartbreaking and complex and cruel--but relatable! ★

Making Waves by Tawna Fenske
Contemporary Romance--Corporate castoff pirates + steamy romance + quirky humor = this book. A bit over-the-top at times, but relentlessly entertaining and funny.

Beautiful Creatures by Kami Garcia and Margaret Stohl
YA Paranormal Romance--The southern town of Gatlin has secrets, including witches and curses. Gorgeous historical depth, but I really didn't care about the MC. At all.

Daughter of Smoke & Bone by Laini Taylor
YA Fantasy Extravaganza--Karou's different and she's about to get caught up in an otherworldly war. Masterful and exquisite and wonderfully creative. READ THIS BOOK TOO. ★

If You Give A Cat A Cupcake by Laura Joffe Numeroff (illustrations by Felicia Bond)

Picture Book--If you give a cat a cupcake ... it will get rather demanding. Cute, but after all the other books in this series, feels a little TOO derivative.

And that's a wrap. Not much this month, but my to-read pile is looking mighty good, so I'm betting that October will rock. What about you guys? Any exciting books that you're looking forward to . . . or have you already gotten your hands on them? Tell me the details in the comments!

August Book Roundup

Before we get to the meat of the book roundup, some crazy news. I've read 76 books this year. Which is a bit ridiculous. Especially considering that my original goal was 50 books (it's now 100). So I'm feeling pretty good about myself. Yay books!

Anyway. Moving on to the actual book roundup bit. If you don't know, here's the lowdown: At the beginning of each month I do Twitter-length reviews of the new books I read during the month prior. Genres are listed at the beginning of the reviews and my very favorites are marked with a star (★).

If you've got it, let's get things started.

The Osiris Ritual by George Mann

Steampunk Mystery--Sequel to The Affinity Bridge. Once again, Sherlock Holmes in a steampunk world with elements of the occult. Truly difficult to put down!

Anna and the French Kiss by Stephanie Perkins

YA Fiction--Anna's father is sending her to boarding school in France and she's NOT happy. Want a swoon-worthy, yet realistic teen romance? This is your book. ★

Spell Hunter (née Knife) by RJ Anderson

YA Fantasy--The faeries in the great Oak have lost their magic and are dying. But no one remembers why. A perfect blend of mystery, magic, and adventure. ★

Stolen by Lucy Christopher

YA Fiction--Gemma writes a letter to the man that kidnapped her. Stockholm Syndrome is always a little creepy and this book does a good job of it. Loved.

Wayfarer (née Rebel) by RJ Anderson

YA Fantasy--Sequel to Knife. Linden is on a mission to find other faeries and save her people. Lots of exciting faery lore, but Timothy was obnoxious.

Emily the Strange: The Lost Days by Bob Reger and Jessica Gruner

Middle Grade Mystery--Emily, err, "Earwig" has amnesia and a mystery to solve. Incredibly entertaining with a great voice and a crazy plot. Also, cat doodles.

Old Mr. Boston De Luxe Official Bartender's Guide edited by Leo Cotton
Cookbook--The 1963 edition, but it has a ridiculous number of recipes. Don't drink if you're underage, but if you're not, definitely look into this book.

Red Glove by Holly Black

YA Urban Fantasy--Sequel to White Cat. Cassel's brother is murdered and his own uncertain future is looming. Everyone in this book is a slimewad. AND I LOVE IT. ★

Chime by Franny Billingsley

YA Fantasy--Briony's secret has caused terrible, terrible things. The prose is haunting and dark and gorgeous. Love the voice, love the world, love everything. ★

And that's all for this month! So, now I'm curious. How many books have you guys read this year? Are you meeting your goals? Are you feeling particularly prolific? Tell me about it in the comments.

July Book Roundup

Beginning of the month, so it's book roundup time. Wooo.

Not much to say on how well I'm devouring through The Pile, because, well, I'm not doing the greatest job at that. Of course, now that I've stopped requesting things from the library, it's theoretically going to be a lot easier to get through all of the books I've borrowed over the last few months. And then The Pile will die. *wields steak knife*

Anyway, here's the deal behind the book roundup. At the beginning of each month I do Twitter-length reviews of the new books I read during the month prior. Genres are listed at the beginning of the reviews and my very favorites are marked with a star (★).

Make sense? Well let's get down to business then.

The 19 Dragons by SM Reine

Steampunk novella--The godlike 19 dragons have been rendered mortal and their murders harken the end. This story is wondrous and surprising. I wish there was more! ★

Shiver by Maggie Stiefvater

YA Paranormal Romance--Romance and werewolves, without being super tacky. First half is painfully slow, but the writing is lovely and the chilled ambiance is perfect.

Enclave by Ann Aguirre

YA Post-apocalyptic--Deuce, a Huntress, lives in a small community beneath the husk of NYC. Also, zombies. Nice premise, but almost too many ideas running rampant.

Supernaturally by Kiersten White

YA Paranormal--Sequel to Paranormalcy. Evie's trying to adjust to "normal" life ... and fails. While Evie is still adorable, I wish more had happened.

Linger by Maggie Stiefvater

YA Paranormal Romance--Sequel to Shiver. Sam and Grace are still in love, but change is on the way. Adore the Isabel POV chapters and the gorgeous, lyrical writing. ★

The Affinity Bridge by George Mann

Steampunk mystery--Sherlock Holmes with dirigibles, zombies, and a female Watson. First 100 pages dragged, but the rest made up for it. Also, Veronica is badass.

The Shifter by Janice Hardy

YA Fantasy--Nya can heal with a touch and "shift" the pain into other people. Fantastic premise and interesting plot, but I just couldn't relate to Nya.

Well, there we go. That's what I read, so my question to you is what did you read? Anything that I should rush to the store and get immediately? Give me a heads up in the comments.

June Book Roundup

Hey everyone, it's book roundup time!

Well, after the reading failure that was last month, I gotta say, June was much more successful. I won't lie though. The scary pile of books on my desk is still big and menacing, especially since I mostly read things that weren't in the pile. Better luck next month, yeah?

Anyway, for anyone who doesn't know, lemme give you the book roundup lowdown. At the beginning of each month I do Twitter-length reviews of the books I read during the month prior. Genres are listed at the beginning of the reviews and my very favorites are marked with a star (★).

Now that we've gotten that all cleared up, let's get into the meat of things.

Divergent by Veronica Roth

YA Dystopian--In a dystopian world emphasizing on morality, Beatrice must decide on her future. Strong characters and adrenaline-pumped action make this a fun read. ★

Break by Hannah Moskowitz

YA Fiction--Jonah is gonna to break every bone in his body. This book has absolutely fantastic characterization. However, the ending was a wee bit abrupt.

If I Stay by Gayle Forman

YA Fiction--After a terrible car accident, coma-ridden Mia must choose between life and death. Loved the characters and the music, but sloooow pacing.

Liar by Justine Larbalestier
YA Fiction--Micah is a compulsive liar; then her boyfriend is murdered. This book made my brain explode. Super unreliable narration FTW! Go read it now. ★

Behemoth by Scott Westerfeld
YA Steampunk--Sequel to Leviathan. Full of gender-bending angst, political drama, and crazy critters, this alternate history is still my #1 steampunk love. ★

The Maze Runner by James Dashner

YA Post-apocalyptic--Amnesiac Thomas finds himself trapped in the Glade--to escape he must navigate the Maze. Lots of fun suspense, but prose relied on a lot of "telling." ★

Specials by Scott Westerfeld
YA Dystopian--Last of the Uglies trilogy. Lots of action and brainwashing, however the uprising felt easy. Also, I wish the ending hadn't been so bittersweet.

Go the F**k to Sleep by Adam Mansbach (illustrations by Ricardo Cortés)
Picture Book--A goodnight story for adults. This is a hilarious combination of kid's fluff and parental rage. And Samuel L Jackson's narration is golden.

The Scorch Trials by James Dashner

YA Post-apocalyptic--Sequel to The Maze Runner. Exciting, interesting, creepy things happen (and I love Minho), but it feels a little like the other book rehashed.

Kitchen by Banana Yoshimoto
Adult Fiction--Two stories about love and loss and not knowing your place in the world. Lived up to my expectations--sweet, poignant, sad, and wonderful.

White Cat by Holly Black
YA Urban Fantasy--Cassel is the only member of his mobster family who can't use magic. Only better than that. Cons and magic--a combination I never knew I wanted. ★

The Iron King by Julie Kagawa

YA Fantasy--Meghan's brother is kidnapped by faeries--time for a rescue. Lots of classic faery elements, but with a gritty, modern twist. Also, love the cat.

Book of a Thousand Days by Shannon Hale
YA Fantasy--Dashti and her mistress, Lady Saren, are locked in a tower for 7 years. Gorgeous, gorgeous book with a lush world and characters to match. ★

Going Bovine by Libba Bray
YA Fiction--Cameron has mad cow disease and now he's gonna find a cure. Written so beautifully, but the voice was just too much and I couldn't enjoy it.

Felties: How to Make 18 Cute and Fuzzy Friends by Nelly Pailloux
Crafty--Felt doll book with several patterns for tiny, adorable critters. Completely adorable! Includes everything from a cat mummy to a matryoshka doll. ★

Extras by Scott Westerfeld

YA Dystopian--The story of Aya Fuse and what happened after the Uglies trilogy. Expected to miss Tally's POV, but surprisingly, I didn't. Much love to Moogle.

13 Little Blue Envelopes by Maureen Johnson

YA Fiction--Ginny's traveling across Europe on a mission orchestrated from the grave. Fun premise, but the book dragged on. Also, deus ex machinas abound.

Voila. Lots of good stuff this time. How did you guy do? Read anything you loved? Hated? Just didn't care about? Give me a heads up in the comments.

May Book Roundup

Guess what? It's June. That means it's time for a lot of things, like the first day of summer, the end of the school year for everyone that hasn't graduated yet, the creepy bugs that haven't shown their ugly mugs yet, and, of course, my birthday. Yay! And, to start it all off, it's time for the monthly book roundup. Yay again!

For anyone who doesn't know, at the beginning of each month I do Twitter-length reviews of the books I read during the month prior. Genres are listed at the beginning of the reviews and my very favorites are marked with a star (★). Can we say yay one more time? Yay!

I didn't do much reading in May, so let's get this over with, shall we?

Streams of Babel by Carol Plum-Ucci

YA Fiction--Terrorists poison the water supply of an American neighborhood. Nice exploration of terrorism and globalism. Pacing, however, was too slow for me.

Viku and the Elephant by Debu Majumdar

Picture Book--A boy and an elephant become friends in the forests of India. Not only is it charming and culturally aware, but the illustrations are adorable.

Fire by Kristin Cashore

YA Epic Fantasy--Companion to Graceling. Fire is the last human monster. Featuring strong characters, civil war, romantic entanglements, and horses. ★

Hahahaha, and that's all folks! As you can see I hardly read anything, especially in comparison to April, month of literary productivity. It's pretty pathetic, yeah? Especially when you consider the books that are patiently waiting for me:

That's 21 books total, yo.

If you're curious, the breakdown is as follows: 5 library books, 11 books borrowed from various people, and 5 of my own books. They sit on my desk and stare at me longingly.

But yes. That's enough about me--what about you guys? Did you read some good books this month? Or did you let all your books chill out in an unloved pile like me? Tell me all about it in the comments.

April Book Roundup

Well, it's the beginning of the month and you all know what that means.

But if you don't know, don't fret, for I shall tell you. At the beginning of each month I do Twitter-length reviews of the books I read during the month prior. Genres are listed at the beginning of the reviews and my very favorites are marked with a star (★). Yay!

Anyway, as you may notice, I read a lot of books in April. The reason? A combination of library books that were due and borrowed books that had to go back to their owners. This melted my brain a little bit (I officially do not get how book bloggers do it), and thus, May will probably tone it down a bit.

Also, in regards to comic books, yes, I know, I'm inconsistent. All six volumes of Scott Pilgrim were grouped together because they're pretty fluffy and were limited to one big story. But the two volumes of Fables are separate because they cover two different story arcs and are much denser than Scott Pilgrim could ever be.

I think that's it, so we'll get this show on the road.

Uglies by Scott Westerfeld

YA Dystopian--Everyone's born "ugly," but 16 is the magic year where you get surgery and become "pretty." Interesting premise, but some elements fell flat.

The Dark and Hollow Places by Carrie Ryan

YA Post-apocalyptic--Final installment from the zombie apocalypse trilogy. I'm pretty much speechless from glee. Gorgeous writing, world-building, and characters. ★

Midnighters: The Secret Hour by Scott Westerfeld

YA Paranormal--There's a special hour each night that only people born at midnight can experience. Love the idea behind the crazy critters and everyone's powers.

Midnighters: Touching Darkness by Scott Westerfeld

YA Paranormal--Sequel to The Secret Hour. It's great how much these characters don't get along. Lots of dramatic developments and prickly histories unraveled.

Midnighters: Blue Noon by Scott Westerfeld
YA Paranormal--Last of the Midnighters trilogy. Lots of excitement and drama (and I love Rex)! Loose ends tied up nicely, but the ending seemed a bit abrupt.

Crobots: 20 Amigurumi Robots to Make by Nelly Pailloux
Crafty--Amigurumi crochet book with patterns to make tiny, yarn robots. Pretty much full of awesome. Featuring sequins, control panels, and plush goodness. ★

Scott Pilgrim Vol. 1-6 by Bryan Lee O'Malley
Comic--Post-college action romance with a nod to both geek and hipster parties. Definitely a fun read since romance is the game and crazy is the norm.

Fables Volume 9: Sons of Empire by Bill Willingham
Comic--The drama of war picks up in this volume as both sides begin to prepare for the inevitable. Also, a cute side story with Snow, Bigby, and the cubs.

Fables Volume 10: The Good Prince by Bill Willingham
Comic--One of the best stories from the Fables series. Flycatcher gets his due in an epic story that's reminiscent of Arthurian legend.Truly delightful. ★

Boneshaker by Cherie Priest
Steampunk--Thanks to a drilling accident, Seattle has been flooded with noxious gas, populated by zombies, and walled off. Here's some steampunk that feels real.

Pretties by Scott Westerfeld

YA Dystopian--Uglies sequel. Complete turnaround from last time and it's sweet. The last book lets the rebellion flourish from within New Pretty Town.

Orphans of Chaos by John C Wright
Sci-fi/Fantasy--Five orphans who have powers and may not be human. Interesting read, but the prose was often confusing and several male characters were jerks.

Between Shades of Gray by Ruta Sepetys
YA Historical Fiction--In 1941 Lena and her family are deported from Lithuania to Siberia. Heart wrenching, raw, and full of incredibly multidimensional characters. ★

Ape House by Sara Gruen
Fiction--Conspiracies, bonobos, journalism! Also, scandalous reality TV! Everything is fun in this book. A bonus? Character development not sacrificed. ★

So did you guys read anything good this month? Anything you definitely would or would not recommend? Tell me in the comments.