Book #15 Read in 2016
Tell Me Three Things by Julie Buxbaum
Jessie's mother passed away not that long ago. She is still dealing with that when her father unexpectedly marries Rachel and moves Jessie to California. Jessie struggles to maneuver her new school and climate. SN texts her and says he will help her figure out the school but he will not reveal his identity. The two share many things about themselves through this communication method and Jessie tries to figure out SN's identity. This book is well written, has interesting characters and contains a good balance of romance, humor and angst. I received a copy of this book from Amazon Vine in exchange for a honest review.
Book #14 Read in 2016
Cruel Crown by Victoria Aveyard
This book consists of two novellas, both prequels to Red Queen. I believe they set the back story of the warring groups of the Red and the Silver. Both were decent reads with a good amount of action. The characters were interesting and the fictional society was complex. I will continue this series.
Book #13 Read in 2016
The Glittering Court by Richelle Mead
This is the seemingly first book in a new series by the author of such hits as the Vampire Academy series and Soundless. In this book, young Lady Whitmore is being matched up for marriage by her grandmother and she is not given much say in the matter. When an opportunity to take over the identity of one of her maids presents itself, she cannot resist and she becomes Adelaide. She joins the Glittering Court, where maids and such girls are taught lessons in etiquette and academics in order to make them a better level of bride. The girls then head to a different land, where bachelors of many stations will contract them as brides. Adelaide falls in love with one of the company man, which is not in the cards. But their love is not without serious obstacles....will they ever be able to be together? This was a good read, with interesting characters, romance, humor, action and neat settings. I enjoyed it. I was sent this book by Amazon Vine in exchange for a honest review.
Book #12 Read in 2016
Real Talk for Real Teachers by Rafe Esquith
This was the book I read with a colleague for my professional goal. The title says it all...this book was real and teachers will be able to relate well to it. Esquith is an award-winning teacher but he has not forgotten the way he felt as a new teacher, as a teacher 5-10 years into his career or as a veteran. The book is broken down in these three sections, with things to consider at the end of every chapter. Every teacher would be able to get something out of this book. I highly recommend it to my fellow teachers!
Book #11 Read in 2016
Go Home: The True Story of James the Cat by Libby Phillips Meggs
James the Cat has been on his own for a long time. Will this old cat ever find a place to call home? Luckily, James, after a few mishaps, finds a nice family who will take care of him and make him part of this family. This book has beautiful illustrations. I borrowed this book from my local library.
Book #10 Read in 2016
Reign of Shadows by Sophie Jordan
This is the first book in a paranormal romance series. Luna is the princess, who was stolen away by caregivers at birth, after a throne-seeking man killed her royal parents. The caregivers have kept Luna hidden away for years but that is threatened when Luna saves a band of travelers from dwellers (sort of zombie-like characters). Luna is then sent away with Fowler, one of the travelers, in an effort to keep her safe. The duo are growing closer but will they ever be safe to enjoy a happy ending? Prepare for a cliffhanger ending that will leave you wanting book #2 immediately. This book has interesting characters, good action, romance and humor in it to keep readers entertained. I received a copy of this book from Amazon Vine in exchange for a honest review.
Book #9 Read in 2016
The Story of Diva and Flea by Mo Williems
This is a cute children's book about Diva, a timid small dog, and Flea, a wandering street cat. The two become friends and give each other courage to try new things. They realize that there can be comfort and adventures in their lives. This was a cute read.
Book #8 Read in 2016
The Wicked Will Rise by Danielle Paige
This is the second in the Doroty Must Die series, an alternate world of the Wizard of Oz. In this book, Amy Gumm is still battling evil Dorothy and trying to save her magical friends. This one, for me, was slower than book #1. That being said, I enjoyed it and have ordered the third book, coming out next month.
Book #7 Read in 2016
Firstlife by Gena Showalter
This is the first in a YA fantasy series. Tenley has to decide between two factions before she turns 18. If not, her soul will be forfeited to Many Ends when she dies. Her parents institutionalize her to try to get her to make a decision. Turn out Ten is very important to both factions and therefore each want her to pledge to their faction. Archer and Killian, one from each faction, are guardian angels of sorts to her but will even they be able to save her? Lots of action, romance humor in this one. The book did bog down a bit and at over 400 pages it could have been shorter and sped up but overall, it was a good read. I will continue this series. I received a copy of this book from Amazon Vine in exchange for a honest review.
January Reads:
1. Thicker than Water (YA) 5/5
2. Readers of Broken Wheel Recommend (5/5)
3. Raging Sea (YA) 5/5 2nd in series
4. A Study in Charlotte (YA) 4/5/5
5. Clockwork Prince (YA) 5/5 2nd in series
6. Arena (YA) 4.5/5
6 books read in 2016
