The Perks Of Being A Wall Flower By Stephen Chbosky

Cover Rating: 4/5 Stars
Overall Rating: 5/5 Stars
'I walk around the school hallways and look at the people. I look at the teachers and wonder why they're here. Not in a mean way. In a curious way. It's like looking at all the students and wondering who's had their heart broken that day... or wondering who did the heart breaking and why.'
Charlie is a freshman. And while he's not the biggest geek in the school, he is by no means popular. Shy, introspective, intelligent beyond his years yet socially awkward, he is a wallflower, caught between trying to live his life and trying to run from it. Charlie is attempting to navigate his way through uncharted territory: the world of first dates and mixed tapes, family dramas and new friends; the world of sex, drugs, and The Rocky Horror Picture Show, when all one requires is that perfect song on that perfect drive to feel infinite. But Charlie can't stay on the sideline forever. Standing on the fringes of life offers a unique perspective. But there comes a time to see what it looks like from the dance floor.

I picked up this book for what you may think is a strange reason. I was looking at a list of banned books online and it annoyed me so much that I picked one at random to read. It happened to be this one and I must say, I'm glad! I adored this book, I really did. It exceeded my expectations. The Perks Of Being A Wallflower is told entirely in letters to an unknown source. There are many speculations about who the letters are to but personally I like not knowing, it adds to the point of the book. In these letters the main character documents a year or so of his life and we get to come along for the ride. Truthfully this book had me on the edge of tears a good many times.

There is not many characters that I disliked in this book because even the annoying ones had such real personalities that it was difficult to hate. The main character, Charlie, I absolutely loved. His voice was so individual and unlike any narration I have read. At the start I thought Charlie's childish nature was a bit strange for his age but as the book went on I got my suspicions as to why he was like that. He had two close friends though I always got the impression that Charlie was more of a tagalong than a proper friend. Patrick and Sam were his best friends. I really liked them because they were so lifelike as was his sister. The author is gifted with the ability of making believable characters.

Overall I absolutely loved this book and am considering going back to that banned books list to get more recommendations and be a bit of a rebel. I would recommend this book to everyone even if they're just reading it because it was banned like I was originally. Charlie's world was one that I would love to visit again but as this is a standalone I will have to make do with the one book. Although there is a film coming out this year and trust me, I will be first in line to see it.

My Favorite quote/s:
“So, this is my life. And I want you to know that I am both happy and sad and I'm still trying to figure out how that could be.”
---
“we accept the love we think we deserve.”  

Dead Until Dark By Charlaine Harris

Cover Rating: 4.5/5 Stars
Overall Rating: 3.5/5Stars
Synopsis: Sookie Stackhouse is a small-time cocktail waitress in small-town Louisiana. She's quiet, keeps to herself, and doesn't get out much. Not because she's not pretty. She is. It's just that, well, Sookie has this sort of "disability." She can read minds. And that doesn't make her too dateable. And then along comes Bill. He's tall, dark, handsome - and Sookie can't 'hear' a word he's thinking. He's exactly the kind of guy she's been waiting for all her life. But Bill has a disability of his own: He's a vampire. Worse than that, hangs with a seriously creepy crowd, with a reputation for trouble - of the murderous kind.  And when one of Sookie's colleagues is killed, she begins to fear she'll be next.

Dead Until Dark was a light, fluffy read. It was a lot less adult than I actually thought it was going to be considering what I've seen of the TV show is very steamy. There were many unique aspects of Dead Until Dark which were very interesting. Everybody knew about the vampires but they considered it a disability. I thought this was really different because the vamp's aren't skulking in the shadows but out in the open - though they do still have to be in the shadows because they burn and luckily don't sparkle! I did enjoy the story but it was slightly lacking... something.

I didn't really form an attachment to any of the characters but I don't think any really got on my nerves. Sookie was quite sweet and nice but she also seemed like a bit of an air-head. There was nothing striking about her apart from the fact she could read minds of course but even that wasn't really a huge part of the story. Then there's Bill. Well I just couldn't take him seriously! They describe him as a tall, dark, handsome vampire which is fine but then I hear the name Bill and my mind images an old man. No offence to Bill's out there but it really is the least vampy name EVER! He wasn't very interesting either. There was another vampire, Eric, who seemed a lot more interesting and I'm looking forward to seeing more of him. I also liked her boss, Sam, he was nice and quite cool. All of the characters seemed a little flat though so I'm hoping that gets better in further books.

I found the plot quite predictable but that is not always a bad thing. Sometimes it's good to read a book that you don't have to think much about because it's easy to see what will happen. I will probably read the rest of the series but there are a lot so it may take me a while. I would recommend this for a quick read and probably for adults even though it wasn't really fully that genre, who knows maybe it will get more 'adult'.
Email me at: confessionsofabookaholic@LIVE.CO.UK

Stacking The Shelves (3)

Stacking the shelves is hosted over at Tynga's Reviews. This week I bought seven books even though I haven't actually read any of the others I bought last week. I really do need to stop buying books, I have officially completely run out of space.


Bought:

I'm excited to read Hallowed since I absolutely loved the first book, Unearthly. 

Everneath is my Random Read this month and how could have I not bought it with such a stunning cover? I may have bought it because of that alone. 

       

I have been waiting to read Forbidden for a long time and I saw it in the shop and had to get it. 

My friend has been going on at me to read Starcrossed for ages so I got that at the same time.

       

I bought Unravelling because somehow reading the blurb pulled me in, a countdown to save the world? I needed to know what happens. 

I've seen Paranormalcy around about and thought it was about time I had a look at it.

I haven't ever wanted to read Memoirs Of A Geisha but it had been in a charity shop I went to for months and I felt sorry for it so I bought it and it doesn't look too bad. Plus it was less than a pound which is always a good thing.

So what did you get? Are your shelves as full as mine?
Email me at: confessionsofabookaholic@LIVE.CO.UK

Top Ten Of... Most Annoying Male Characters

As you may know I did a Top Ten of most annoying female characters a while ago and it had proven to be one of my most popular posts with 106 page views. So I decided that I was being a bit sexist only doing female characters so here is my top ten most annoying male characters. There will be lot's of spoilers in this post, consider yourself warned!

10. Dimitri Belikov (Vampire Academy and Bloodlines series)
Dimitri used to be a favorite of mine; tall, dark, handsome and a Russian accent. I mean what's not to love? Maybe the fact that he cheated with Rose on poor Adrian! At the beginning of the series he seemed really awesome but then he got boring, really boring. When he was Strigoi (an evil type of vamp) he actually had a much better personality but when he got turned back I think he just went soft. He worshiped Lissa for goodness sake! Also I just hate it when the guy pretends not to love the girl 'for her own good'. It never works! 


9. Gale Hawthorne- The Hunger Games
As much as I LOVED the actor who plays Gale in the movies his character just irritated me. First of all he's pining over Katniss even though he only became interested in her AFTER Peeta did and then when he finally get's his chance to be with her he leaves for another district. And he kissed Katniss knowing full well that Peeta loved her. Personally I don't think Gale did love her but that's just me.


8. Stefan Salvatore - The Vampire Diaries
He was so annoying! He was overly broody and just seemed depressed half the time. His girlfriend was cheating on him with his brother but did he care? Nope. He still referred to her as pure and perfect. He was a total pushover! But he's also really possesive and I hate that in a guy. I much prefer him in the TV show but Damon beats him every time. Damon is hot and badass and Stefan is stoic and irritating. Which would you choose?


7. Erik Night - House Of Night
Urg. Another example of a nice guy gone bad. Yes I suppose it was Zoey's fault for sleeping with her teacher when she was with him and then Erik walks in on them but it still annoys me. He is just so angry and selfish. Why do these guys like her anyway? She is horrible and doesn't seem to mind having more than three boyfriends at once. 


6. Shay Doran - Nightshade
Shay, Shay, Shay. I never liked him. He made Calla give up her pack and sexy alpha just to save his life which resulted in them all being tortured. Talk about selfish. Not only that but he's unbearably self centered. He thinks he's the center of the universe just because he's needed for something. He is also so boring! Really I was falling asleep during his parts of Wolfsbane but the moment Ren was in it it sped up considerably.


5. Nick Colt - Need
Nick began by being cute, funny and kind but it just went downhill from there. Now he's a total jerk! Zara, his girlfriend, had to become a pixie queen to save his life and she managed it but Nick hate's pixies. You would think he would let that go since he loves her right? Wrong. He was utterly evil about it. I haven't read the latest yet but my guess is that he get's worse. As much as I dislike Zara she deserves better, in the form of Astley who is Nick's opposite.


4. Simon Lewis - The Mortal Instruments
Simon started of being the sweet nerdy guy who was in love with his best friend. Since becoming a vampire though he seems to think he's the most awesome guy in the world. He's dating two girls at once and being really jerky. He is also still pining over Clary. Jace saved his life two or three times but Simon is still rants about him because he is jealous that he's with Clary. 


3. Daniel Grigori - Fallen
Daniel is SO possessive! He doesn't let Luce do anything she want's always claiming it's for her own good. Well that statement is getting old fast. Why do they always say that? He doesn't act like he loves her at all especially since he has a relationship with her even though every other time he has she has died. So he's willing to risk her life for his happiness. Personally I think he just want's her dead. I can't say I don't.


2. Jericho Barrons - Fever
Barrons is a twisted sadistic man. He constantly hurts MacKayla - making her a woman beater - and then goes on about wanting her (ew) but never actually asks her out or anything. I'm only two books in and I have no clue how everyone likes him. He is a repulsive creature. The only appeal I see is his sense of humor and that barely surfaces. 


1. Edward Cullen - Twilight
You knew my number one was going to be Princess Sparkles didn't you? I mean I do pity him, it must be hard knowing that your girl friend is more masculine than you. And I bet he would cry if the other boys and girls found out he sparkled like a discoball. I really do feel sorry for Robert Pattinson having to play him. Another thing I hate about Sparky is how stalkerish he is. He watches Bella sleep! Ever heard the Christmas song that goes 'he knows when you are sleeping... blah blah' well that is what convinced me that Meyer's inspiration for Cullen was in fact Father Christmas. It all makes sense now right?

Anyway enough Twi-Bashing, what would your top ten be? Let me know, I might have forgotten someone.
Email me at: confessionsofabookaholic@LIVE.CO.UK
Note: I will add pictures soon, too tired now. (Yawn)

Hate List By Jennifer Brown

Cover Rating: 2/5 Stars
Overall Rating: 3/5 Stars
Synopsis: Five months ago, Valerie Leftman's boyfriend, Nick, opened fire on their school cafeteria. Shot trying to stop him, Valerie inadvertently saved the life of a classmate, but was implicated in the shootings because of the list she helped create. A list of people and things she and Nick hated. The list he used to pick his targets. Now, after a summer of seclusion, Val is forced to confront her guilt as she returns to school to complete her senior year. Haunted by the memory of the boyfriend she still loves and navigating rocky relationships with her family, former friends and the girl whose life she saved, Val must come to grips with the tragedy that took place and her role in it, in order to make amends and move on with her life.

I started reading this book for no apparent reason really. You know how it is, you read a sad book and then go through a sad-book-phase. Then order some books of the same genre. About a month later your scanning your shelf for something to read and are surprised to see they are all depressing ones. Then you remember 'Oh these are from that sad-book-phase I had last month!'. Or is it just me?Anyway Hate List (I feel like there should be a 'the' in front of that) was quite a good read. It deals with the issue of a school shooting which I've never heard much about, I've never heard of it happening in England though that could just be me not listening to the news as I don't usually. It was actually a better story than I thought it was going to be. It is sad without being depressing and it explores the affects of a school shooting on everyone involved; the teachers, students and the people who were closer to the shooter.


The main character Valerie's boyfriend was the shooter and because of that everyone presumed she was involved and the discovery of the Hate List didn't make it any better. The Hate List was a book of names of people who they didn't like, nothing more, or so Valerie thought. Nick took it to extremes and targeted those of the list before turning the gun on himself. Valerie I found was quite stupid for not seeing the warning signs in Nick; his fascination with death, talk of killing them all and all his hate. I suppose she was blinded by the other side of Nick, the sweet kind one she loved. At the end of the book I liked her a lot more, she was brave and I admired that. There is not many other characters to comment on really as the focus was always on Valerie but I did really like her psychiatrist whose name I can't remember right now.


Hate List is not a light read so I wouldn't recommend if  your looking for a fluffy read but if you are looking for a book that makes you think this is the one for you. It's deep, dark and serious. The book is very real as are the reactions of the characters which I enjoyed. Overall it was a good book that I would recommend to my friends. 

Email me at: confessionsofabookaholic@LIVE.CO.UK

Just A Thing That Is (Guest Post)

Here's a guest post from John Vorhaus, author of Lucy In The Sky, enjoy!

So here I am out promoting my new novel, Lucy in the Sky, and I’m doing it the hard way, through Twitter, Facebook and guest blog posts like the one you’re reading here. It’s a challenge for me, because I’m a writer who loves to write, and I’d much rather be working on my next novel than out promoting this one. In the world of my imagining, I don’t have to do any outreach to readers at all, because they’ll all find their way to my work (in the millions!) by magic. But that’s the world of my imagining. Much as I would have it otherwise, I live in the real world, and I’ve always found that reality works better for me when I accept it rather than fight it.

I’ve devised a strategy for this, a mantra if you will, that helps me cope with all sorts of life situations where I encounter a gap between the way things are and the way I wish they would be. In times of such stress, I tell myself simply, “This is not a good thing. This is not a bad thing. It’s just a thing that is.” That keeps me balanced, present in the moment, and generally happy. And nowadays I’m leaning on this mantra almost daily as I attempt to meet the demands of publishing in the post-paper world.

Which doesn’t mean that I can’t repurpose reality just a little bit to suit my needs. For instance, being an older human, I confess to harboring a certain prejudice against what we might call “entrepreneurial publishing.” Back in the day, this sort of work was called… dark drum roll please… vanity press, and carried with it all sorts of negative connotations. The assumption was that anyone who published his or her own book was somehow not worthy of consideration by “real” publishers and therefore by readers. Of course, we all know that the model and the marketplace have completely changed. Today’s consumers of entertainment, especially young ones, recognize that the quality is in the product, not the brand. Just ask anyone who’s ever downloaded music from their favorite unsigned band. Therefore, simply for the sake of feeling more comfortable in the post-paper world, I choose to follow the new model of music distribution and call what I do indy publishing, not self-publishing. This helps me sleep at night.

There will be those who still see it otherwise, and I honor their right to their perspective. For instance, I recently received the following comment in response to one of my essays on this subject: “Self-publishing by any other name,” wrote a skeptical reader, “is still self-publishing. I suspect readers are becoming increasingly sophisticated in this developing electronic world. They’re catching on to the little tricks authors use to say, ‘See, I’m not a self-publisher.’ Publisher Imprint x # of employees 1 = self-publishing.”

Now, I love the math of this. I do. It tickles my whimsy. But I hate the pejorative undertone. I agree that readers are becoming increasingly sophisticated, but I suspect that this sophistication manifests itself not in trying to sleuth out a writer’s publishing cred but rather to cut through the clutter and find, and enjoy, a great read, regardless of its provenance.

So is Lucy in the Sky a great read? Well, I think so, but what would you expect me to say? I can tell you what it’s about: A coming-of-age story set in 1969, it tells the tale of Gene Steen, an earnest young striver who gets a chance to make his hippie dreams come true when the eponymous Lucy rolls into town. I can tell you who I think the book appeals to: young seekers, old geezers and anyone else who wants to experience or re-experience the Sixties. I can even tell you the point of the story: that being a hippie isn’t about love beads and peace signs but about the choices you make and the chances you take. If that sounds like something that floats your boat, then I can point you to places on the web where you can sample the wares and decide for yourself whether the book is worth read. The rest is up to you.

But when you’re done, and if you’ve enjoyed it, I’ll bet you won’t remember whether Lucy was released by my former publisher, Random House, or my current one, Bafflegab Books. And then, who knows? Maybe you’ll read some of my other stuff. Goodness knows there’s plenty of it out there – more every day. And that’s how a writer, or at least this writer, makes his place in the post-paper world: not by magic but by hard work. By writing, and promoting, and then writing and promoting some more. I love the writing part. I don’t love the promoting part, but I recognize it as an absolute necessity.

It’s not a good thing. It’s not a bad thing. It’s just a thing that is.

And that’s my attitude. For publishing, for life as a whole, it’s not a bad one to have.

About the author: 

John Vorhaus has written five novels and more than a dozen works of non-fiction. His comedy writing book, The Comic Toolbox, is considered a classic how-to book for writers, and will be making money for someone long after he’s dead, buried and gone. He tweets for no apparent reason @TrueFactBarFact and secretly controls the world from www.johnvorhaus.com.

Email me at: confessionsofabookaholic@LIVE.CO.UK

This interview is long overdue so sorry about that but enjoy!

Tell me about yourself

I'm a busy mother of four, one with Asperger's Syndrome, so I stay pretty busy with my kids. But outside of family, writing and art are my passion, so every moment I can spare is spent on writing and creating.

Tell me about your book/s
In  short,  it’s  written  in  first person, from the heroine’s perspective. She’s a normal college girl until she has an accident that warrants a trip to the hospital. Her injuries heal quickly and her lab results are off the charts. It’s a mystery as to why bizarre happenings are overshadowing her, until Kalen, the hero, enters the
picture.
He reveals to her an ancient prophecy that transcends time and the planes of existence, challenging her take on reality, and Brianna is thrust into a race for her life. With the balance of their worlds at stake, Kalen takes Brianna to his world, where he can better protect her… unanswered questions would be addressed by the council that resides  in the mountain cities of Ethos, so they take up their journey.

During their trek to the mountains, they undergo a series of trials, and find themselves facing the ultimate choice. Throughout their perilous adventure, they are tempted by forbidden love, knowing they can never be together, but it’s that same temptation that leads them to find their greatest strengths.

It’s a story about integrity, duty, agency and self mastery. I wanted to write something that would teach a moral, inspired by an apparent lack  in  action by the people of today. People everywhere seem complacent, and the liberty of those same people is on the brink of destruction. My series is a call to action; to act or be acted upon. It’s about choice, the very thing that makes us superior beings… and the same element that can ultimately lead to destruction, if not exercised wisely.

What are your favourite books?

Scripture  :) Though I enjoy an occasional fantasy or political thriller, I prefer to read nonfiction about history and liberty themes.

Who is your inspiration?

Many writers have inspired me, but since you left your question so open ended, I would have to say that my mother inspires me the most. She's a free spirit and dances to the beat of a different drummer. She encouraged me to embrace being unique and going against the grain.

Are you working on any books we should look out for in the future?

I’m finishing up book #2 in the Ethos series, for a fall 2012 release and also working on a YA steampunk fantasy called, The Elevator.

What is your favourite quote?
"Any man who will sacrifice liberty for security, deserves neither."
Benjamin Franklin

If you could be any character from any book who would you be and why?

That's a hard one. Maybe Chani from Dune, she was tough and got to be Paul Muad'Dib's woman in Frank Herbert's, Dune.

What is your favourite genre?

Definately fantasy, especially urban fantasy.

Who are your favourite authors?
My favorite authors have changed over the years and continue to change as new books come out and my perspectives change. Some select favorites:  Frank  Herbert,  Anne  Rice, J.R.R. Tolkien, Sophia Stewart…But scripture has influenced my writing more than anything.

What tips would you give young aspiring writers?
Read, read, read… It’s amazing how much you can learn by reading other books- plot formation, character development, scene transition, dialogue do’s and don’ts, and what type of descriptive writing is appealing or over done. Granted everyone likes different styles, but by reading other author’s work, you will learn to form your own voice by taking metal notes of what you liked and what you didn’t like.

Also,  avoid people who do not lift you up as an artist/writer. Surround yourself with people who love you for who you are, who will be  happy  when you have small victories. People who constantly criticize your attempts to become great, will never achieve anything, because they aren’t willing to strive for greatness themselves. Keep writing!

If you could live in any story world what would it be?
Well, I know it's not a book, but it's a screenplay and movie. I'd live in 'Avatar' with the Na'Vi.

What is the worst book you've ever read?
Twilight. LOL. I couldn't finish. I did watch all the movies, but only once each... and they were okay. I just couldn't stand Bella Swan. And I realize there will be people who dislike my book too, but you can't please everyone. Don't get me wrong, I admire Stephanie Meyer for her success, I just couldn't stand the books. Since I was spoiled by Anne Rice's vampire world, I just couldn't get into the teeny-bopper sparkling boys in Twilight. I'm still team Lestat!

What do you do aside from writing?

ART! ;) And lots of it!

Want more?

Author website: www.finkartstudio.com

Author facebook fanpage: www.facebook.com/finkartstudio

Author G+: https://plus.google.com/116389190274070035894

Author twitter: https://twitter.com/finkart

Email me at: confessionsofabookaholic@LIVE.CO.UK

Stacking The Shelves

Welcome to Stacking The Shelves! My shelf is now very full because of all of the books. I definitely need another bookshelf!  I got loads of books this week both bought, borrowed and for review - not that I've had much time for those recently.


Bought:



I've been waiting to read Silence since the start of this year so I can't wait to start it and see more Patch. Fever  is the second in the Chemical Gardens Trilogy which is SO good and Insurgent is part of the much hyped and much deserving Divergent series which is AMAZING!

The Unbecoming Of Mara Dyer has a really interesting concept and the cover is to die for. I don't actually know why I bought The Forest Of Hands And Teeth as I have no idea what it's about but it was cheap. I have been eagerly awaiting The Golden Lily since last year, I can't wait to see Adrian again. It's been too long!

From The Library:

    

I picked up Out For Blood as a fluffy entertaining read and of course for the Drake brothers. I felt like reading a classic also so I picked up Pride and Prejudice, I finished it yesterday and it was surprisingly good.

For Review:

The author of Underneath, Michael Cargill Kindly supplied me with a copy of his new book. It is really good so far!

So what have you got this week?
Email me at: confessionsofabookaholic@LIVE.CO.UK

City Of Glass By Cassandra Clare

Cover Rating: 3/5 Stars
Overall Rating: 4.5/5 Stars
Synopsis: To save her mother's life, Clary must travel to the City of Glass, the ancestral home of the Shadowhunters -- never mind that entering the city without permission is against the Law, and breaking the Law could mean death. To make things worse, she learns that Jace does not want her there, and Simon has been thrown in prison by the Shadowhunters, who are deeply suspicious of a vampire who can withstand sunlight. As Clary uncovers more about her family's past, she finds an ally in mysterious Shadowhunter Sebastian. With Valentine mustering the full force of his power to destroy all Shadow-hunters forever, their only chance to defeat him is to fight alongside their eternal enemies. But can Downworlders and Shadowhunters put aside their hatred to work together? While Jace realizes exactly how much he's willing to risk for Clary, can she harness her newfound powers to help save the Glass City -- whatever the cost?


City Of Glass is very difficult for me to review because the first half of it really bored me. I know I didn't know a Cassandra Clare book could bore someone either but alas it did. So you would think I would give it a low rating but two things stop me from doing that. One I love Cassie Clare and just could not do that and two the second half of the book was amazing! So what is one to do? I gave the first part 4 stars and the second 5 so for the overall rating I used the middle number so 4.5 stars it is. So now that dilemma is over I can get to the actual review. City Of Glass was set in Idris, home of the Shadowhunters. I did quite like Idris, it was richly described and sounded like a haven. Clary is determined to go to Idris but Jace doesn't want her too, protective much? And then Simon is accidentally taken as well and put into prison. I mean is that guy having bad luck or what?

The characters seemed very different in this book to the previous two. Jace who I've loved all through it took on a bit of a cruel streak and in one conversation with Alec I just wanted to strangle him. He redeemed himself later but that still bugged me. Clary seemed slightly more annoying but still not bad, her bravery makes up for it. Simon I'm still not keen on but he is okay. I have to say though that Alec and Magnus stole the show. I just love Alec and he seemed braver in this one which I liked, and when Jace was being VERY mean to him I was half expecting him to burst into tears but he didn't which shows just how much he's grown. Magnus is just awesome, enough said. Also be prepared for some Malec moments! The new character Sebastian annoyed me from the start but I can't say all that much about him.

Overall I really did love the second half but the fourth book has floated down to the bottom of my pile so it may be a while before I read it. I'm hoping the next is a little faster than this one and we get to see more of Alec and Magnus. I have to say they're my favorite characters at the moment. Sorry Jace. I would recommend this series to everyone, it's just that good!

My Favorite Quote (SLIGHTLY SPOILERISH BUT I COULDN'T RESIST!!):


“You never called me back," he said. "I called you so many times and you never called me back."
Magnus looked at Alec as if he'd lost his mind. "Your city is under attack," he said. "The wards have been broken, and the streets are full of demons. And you want to know why I haven't called you?"
Alec set his jaw in a stubborn line. "I want to know why you haven't called me back."
Magnus threw his hands up in the air in a gesture of utter exasperation. Alec noted with interest that when he did it, a few sparks escaped from his fingertips, like fireflies escaping from a jar. "You're an idiot."
"Is that why you haven't called me? Because I'm an idiot?"
"No." Magnus strode toward him. "I didn't call you because I'm tired of you only wanting me around when you need something. I'm tired of watching you be in love with someone else - someone, incidentally, who will never love you back. Not the way I do."
"You love me?"
"You stupid Nephilim," Magnus said patiently. "Why else am I here? Why else would I have spent the past few weeks patching up all your moronic friends every time they got hurt? And getting you out of every ridiculous situation you found yourself in? Not to mention helping you win a battle against Valentine. And all completely free of charge!”


Email me at: confessionsofabookaholic@LIVE.CO.UK

Prophecy Of The Most Beautiful By Diantha Jones

Series: The Oracle Of Delphi #1
Genre: Young Adult, Greek Mythology, Romance
Release Date: March 1st 2012
Source: Review Copy From Author
Cover Rating: 4/5 Stars
Overall Rating: 4/5 Stars 
Synopsis: Constant hallucinations and the frequent conversations with the voices in her head, have earned eighteen-year-old Chloe Clever the not-so-coveted title of "Whack Job" in her home town of Adel, Georgia. After living through an attack from her worst nightmare, she awakens to find herself far from home, surrounded by glorious riches and servants…and a few demigods who enjoy killing things. Upon learning that her favorite rockstar is an Olympian god, she is thrust into her new life as the Oracle of Delphi, the prophesier of the future, and the great Pythia that the gods have been anxiously awaiting to arrive for centuries. Setting out to fulfill the prophecy she has been given and to keep her family safe from a demigod Princess that wants her dead, Chloe learns of how great she is to become, all the while fighting mythical monsters, evading divine assassins and trying to outwit the ever-cunning Greek gods who harbor secrets of their own. In the hopes of discovering the Most Beautiful and the truth of her destiny, she strives to uncover the mysteries of the demigod Prince who has sworn to protect her with his life…and threatens to win her heart in the process.

This book was given to me by the author in exchange for an honest review. I can't say that I had huge expectations for Prophesy Of The Most Beautiful because I'm not all that familiar with this genre but if I had then I think it would have been better than them. I was surprised just how much I enjoyed the story really. The detail was rich and sucked you right in and there was some familiar characters including Apollo, Cupid and Aphrodite. I mean how awesome is that? Though it seemed you had to be careful of the Gods, they were not always to be trusted.

Chloe, the main character, had a very real personality and at the beginning struck me as kind of a rebel for being kicked out of school so many times but it turns out that it wasn't the case. I've got to say she was my least favorite character as she was quite annoying at some times but I loved the guys! My favorite had to be Ace, for one his name is awesome. He was just like the little brother that you never had but always wanted. I don't think there was one demigod prince that I disliked though.

Overall I really enjoyed this book and I look forward to the sequel to it Prophecy of the Setting Sunrise. Diantha Jones is a gifted author who has managed to craft a believable and creative world in which demigods prance around with swords and crossbows. I mean what more could you want? I would recommend this book to lovers of Greek Mythology or others like me who had yet to experience this beautiful genre.

My Favorite Quote:
“His laugh was like nails to a chalkboard. "I cannot remember a time when anything was new to me. I only ever see the tattered remains of what once was.”

Email me at: confessionsofabookaholic@LIVE.CO.UK

Flawless By Sara Shepard

Cover Rating: 2/5 Stars

Overall Rating: 3/5 Stars

Synopsis: In the exclusive town of Rosewood, Pennsylvania, where the sweetest smiles hide the darkest secrets, four pretty little liars-Spencer, Aria, Emily, and Hanna--have been very bad girls...  Spencer stole her sister's boyfriend. Aria is brokenhearted over her English teacher. Emily likes her new friend Maya ... as much more than a friend. And Hanna's obsession with looking flawless is literally making her sick. But the most horrible secret of all is something so scandalous it could destroy their perfect little lives. And someone named "A" is threatening to do just that. At first they thought A was Alison, their friend who vanished three years ago . . . but then Alison turned up dead. So could A be Melissa, Spencer's ultracompetitive sister? Or Maya, who wants Emily all to herself? What about Toby, the mysterious guy who left town right after Alison went missing?

I was slightly hesitant to read this book because I didn't really like the first one but I must say I was pleasantly surprised. Although the book wasn't one of the best I've read I really love the idea of it. Four girls bound together by secrets that they shared but also ones that only their best friend knew - their dead best friend. But then they start to get messages from the mysterious A. They all think that Alison must be back until the police find her body. The messages keep coming though. A knows all their secrets new and old and they are threatening to ruin the girls lives. They need to find out who A is but the girls have a lot more enemies than they knew. I don't know why but the idea of not knowing who A is intrigues me. I still much prefer the TV series but the books are growing on me.

I am not all that fond of any of the characters really. Aria is strange and normally I like that but this time it was just a bit much. It also annoyed me just how quickly she would betray her friend to get a guy. Emily is sickly sweet and very annoying for me, she just whines a lot and then doesn't make much attempt to get what she wants. Spencer is selfish and a bit cowardly unlike in the TV series where she's a hot head but I prefer a girl to have a bit of a temper. Hanna I think is my favorite but just because she actually has a consistent personality. The spoiled rich girl persona stays the same whereas the other girls seem to change constantly. All four girls seem to jump to conclusions much to quickly. The more minor characters I felt were a bit flat. Toby was more like a failed attempt at a bad boy but he just didn't work. Wren was the same. I think my favorite character was Alison, we didn't really meet her but she seems like the only developed character even if she is dead.

Overall this book was much better than the first but not really up to par with a lot of other books I've read. The Pretty Little Liars series deals with many important teenage issues and although it doesn't deal with them all well some of them it does and that improves the books significantly. Flawless was a fun, light read. I would recommend this book to people who are not in the mood for a heavy read but it does have a mixture of intrigue and mystery that will keep people coming back for more. I would give this book 3/5 stars and will probably read the next one.

My Favorite Quote:

“Don't get too comfortable. It's not over until I say it is. -A” 

Email me at: confessionsofabookaholic@LIVE.CO.UK

Author Interview: Teresa Lo

 I have been REALLY busy lately so I haven't been able to post much even though I have three books to review I just don't have the time so I'm hoping this author interview will keep you satisfied for the time being. Introducing Teresa Lo author of Hell's Games. Enjoy!

Tell me about yourself:

I’ve lived in Los Angeles for five years, but I’m originally from Coffeyville, Kansas. When I was younger, I was an introvert, and I spent the majority of my free time reading, writing, or watching movies and television. I dreamed of one day being a writer or working in Hollywood, but my parents encouraged me to pursue law. I listened to their advice because I’ve always been very practical and business-minded, but as I was going down that path, I realized that my passion was writing and if I wanted to be happy, I needed to pursue that passion.  After college, I attended USC School of Cinematic Arts and obtained a M.F.A. in Screenwriting, and I have been writing ever since then.

Tell me about your book/s:

Hell’s Game follows a group of popular teenagers who are forced to play a high-stakes game in Hell after they play a horrific prank on the school nerd. As the group moves from level to level in the game, the settings intensify, and each level is a manifestation of one of the seven deadly sins. The story was inspired by the legend of the Gateway to Hell in Stull, Kansas.

What are your favourite books?

My favorite books are The Shrine at Altamira by John L’Heureux, The Forbidden Game by L.J. Smith, the Harry Potter books, The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins, The Westing Game by Ellen Raskin, About a Boy by Nick Hornby, Good in Bed by Jennifer Weiner, and On Writing by Stephen King. That’s just to name a few. I love reading!

Who is your inspiration?

My favorite authors inspire me to write, but on a personal note, my parents really make me want to be the best person I can be. They were Chinese immigrants who worked over twelve hours a day in a restaurant to give me and my sisters the American dream, and their love and support is a motivation for me to be a success so that I can one day give back to them.

Are you working on any books we should look out for in the future?

I’ve been working on ideas for my next book, but at the moment, I’m not 100% sure what I’m going to do. However, I am in the process of adapting Hell’s Game into a screenplay, so hopefully something will happen there!

What is your favourite quote?

“Judge not, and you will not be judged; condemn not, and you will not be condemned; forgive, and you will be forgiven,” Luke 6:37

If you could be any character from any book who would you be and why?

I would like to be Turtle Wexler from The Westing Game by Ellen Raskin. Turtle is smart and sassy, and I’d love to be a teenager who solves a mystery!

What is your favourite genre? 

I love YA!

Who are your favourite authors?

I really like John L’Heuruex, Stephen King, Suzanne Collins, L.J. Smith, R.L. Stine, Ellen Raskin, Jennifer Weiner, Nick Hornby, and J.K. Rowling.

If you could live in any story world what would it be?

I definitely would not want to be in my own book, Hell’s Game, and at the moment, I’d like to live in a magical world and world is more magical than Wonderland?

What is the worst book you've ever read?

This is a hard question to answer. If I don’t like a book, I will stop reading after three chapters so I probably am not a good reference for a bad book recommendation. 

What do you do aside from writing?

I enjoy cooking, being lazy with my cat, taking photos, and reading. I’m also a cast member on the entertainment review website Just Seen It so I watch a lot of movies and TV.

What tips would you give young aspiring writers? 

My advice to young writers is to not get discouraged by the people who tell them “no,” but they should also not lash out at people who criticize their work. Instead, writers should listen to all feedback and use the good and the bad to help them improve their writing.

Check out her book on Amazon!

Email me at: confessionsofabookaholic@LIVE.CO.UK

A Song On Sunday (12)

It's Sunday so it's time for A Song On Sunday a weekly meme here at Confessions Of A Bookaholic. Want to take part? Easy! Just follow these steps:

1. Pick a song you love
2. Match it with a book you've read
3. Grab my button
4. Link back to me
5. Leave me a link so I can see your post 


I've been looking for more excuses to choose songs by The Script for my SOS's because they are just amazing (and Irish!). So look what we have here... Dead Man Walking by The Script seems to fit Lauren DeStefano's Wither remarkably well. Wither is set in a dystopian world in which women only live to twenty and men twenty five. They know when they're going to die so I'd say they felt like dead men (and women) walking. What do you think?

What's your Song On Sunday this week?
Email me at: confessionsofabookaholic@LIVE.CO.UK