Free books are more fun

Ok, well, that $25 gift certificate I won this week lasted less than 24 hours.  I'm in serious book withdrawal.  There's something about reading a few good books in a row that really draws you in and makes you crave reading and that special thing that seems to take place when you are whisked away by someone else's words and imagination. 
Much like a drug, I'm addicted and feeling lost without a good book in waiting.  Sure, I have a few laying around, but nothing really calling to me.  So, what did I do?  I ordered three new shiny ones from Amazon...and I have to say, ordering free books feels REALLY good.  It was like a high yesterday choosing them and pressing that button.  The only problem????  Waiting for them to arrive.  The agony!  Let's hope I can last the weekend without crumbling and going to the bookstore.  :-)

Here's what I have coming in the mail...

Can't wait on this sequel and think I'll start with it!!!  I've heard good things and I am so in love with Alexia Tarabotti and all these characters!

I would have bought the book on this gorgeous cover alone, but I've also heard good things about this book.  Kind of mixed reviews so I can't wait to dive in and see what it's all about for myself.  One of my favorite covers.

I may possibly be the LAST person to read this book, seems like its been on fire lately and everyone's read it.  Anyone else out there besides myself?  I've heard good things and definitely can't wait to dive into this one.  Now only if I didn't have to WAIT on delivery. 

Happy Reading everyone...any big Memorial day plans?  Think my family is sticking around home and having people over for a cookout, but no traveling involved.  Should be very laid back and relaxing...maybe.  If I can just sit still and not work on all those house projects that have been rummaging around in my head.

Happy Thursday!

*hugs*

kristi

The Wednesday Book Recommendation

First off - sorry for my week long absence from the blog...thing have been busy and my internet has been acting up!  Boo!  And doesn't it seem much longer than a week?

The good news is that during my unwilling unplug I have managed to read a few books I have yet to review, so there is (as always) a silver lining!  :-)

I've been on quite a roll with my reading choices lately so without further ado, here they are:

Goodreads Book Description:  Against all odds, Katniss Everdeen has won the annual Hunger Games with fellow district tribute Peeta Mellark. But it was a victory won by defiance of the Capitol and their harsh rules. Katniss and Peeta should be happy. After all, they have just won for themselves and their families a life of safety and plenty. But there are rumors of rebellion among the subjects, and Katniss and Peeta, to their horror, are the faces of that rebellion. The Capitol is angry. The Capitol wants revenge.

My Review:  Is it crazy to think that the sequel to such an amazing book as The Hunger Games can even compete? Apparently not. This book, for me, was just as good as the first. The only difference is that I knew the third installment wasn't out yet, so instead of ripping through the pages I tried to pace myself, not wanting it to be over.  The characters and story Suzanne Collins has created easily earn the five star rating and a place among some of my favorite all-time books. How can you not fall in love with Katniss, Gale and Peeta? I'm not sure it's possible. And for the record, I adore Cinna, he's one of my favorites.  My only complaint? That I have to wait for #3.

Goodreads Book Description:  Alexia Tarabotti is laboring under a great many social tribulations. First, she has no soul. Second, she's a spinster whose father is both Italian and dead. Third, she was rudely attacked by a vampire, breaking all standards of social etiquette.

Where to go from there? From bad to worse apparently, for Alexia accidentally kills the vampire -- and then the appalling Lord Maccon (loud, messy, gorgeous, and werewolf) is sent by Queen Victoria to investigate.

With unexpected vampires appearing and expected vampires disappearing, everyone seems to believe Alexia responsible. Can she figure out what is actually happening to London's high society? Will her soulless ability to negate supernatural powers prove useful or just plain embarrassing? Finally, who is the real enemy, and do they have treacle tart?

My review:  It admittedly took me a few chapters to really be able to get into this book. The descriptions of society, coupled with the point of view were at first, too overwhelming and distracting. It just took a little adjusting before I felt truly comfortable and into the story.


But once I did, I literally finished this book in a week and couldn't stop reading. The humor and wit used throughout had me rolling with laughter and I ultimately fell in love with Alexia, Lord Maccon and above all, Lord Akeldama. I adore that Alexia is a woman of strong opinions and unlike other female characters, she can hold her own against any man. A genuinely unique idea here and I love what Gail has done combining them all.

I will definitely continue this series! Kudos to Carriger on this one...she had me on board by the end.


I'm off to order more books today from Amazon...woo hoo!!!  I was lucky enough to win a contest from the lovely Jade over at Jade hears voices and that free money is just itching to be spent!  I just hope my good roll continues!

Hope everyone's weeks are going well!

*think happy thoughts* (something I've been muttering to myself frequently as I attempt editing my WIP)
kristi

Tuesday Inspiration!

So we all know by now about my addictive music personality, right?  Right.
It's beyond time for me to share with you all my latest obsession.  Yes, obsession.  I've been listening to this album for the last three weeks straight and I'm still not tired of it.  It's THAT GOOD.  I bought the album after a performance on American Idol a few weeks ago.  But, before I tell you who it is, let me tell you about the relationship I've had with this band BEFORE buying the CD.

A few years ago there was a T.V. show called The Great American Band.  Johnny Rzenick (sp?) from the Goo Goo Dolls was a judge, and because I seriously *heart* him, the hubs and I decided to check it out.  It was similar to American Idol, but with live bands trying out for a spot on the show.  Am I the only one who watched this????  Please if anyone out there saw it, comment me so I don't feel alone.  To my knowledge, it only last one season.  But that was an AWESOME season.  Granted, a few horrible bands, but one super stellar one I could NEVER take my eyes off of.  Who were they?  The Clark Brothers.  Christian rock/folk/country sounding guys who were the sons of a preacher.  The intensity with which the lead singer performs is truly amazing.  He draws you in no matter what he sings.  They ended up winning the competition and for months on end, I searched Itunes for their record, which I was sure would be coming out soon.  No.  Such.  Luck.

Hubs and I looked everywhere and found nothing.  After a year or so, we kind of forgot about it.  Then, a few weeks ago, we watch American Idol and low and behold, THERE THEY ARE!  But under a different name.  They are now called, are you ready for it????

Sons of Sylvia! 

We recognized them the moment they hit the stage.  And true to form, they didn't disappoint.  I literally downloaded the album from Itunes THAT NIGHT in anticipation.  The entire thing is just awesome.  Clearly I am biased, but let me tell you, it's good stuff.  Even listening to the songs, you get the emotion behind the vocals and find yourself drawn in.  Is it any surprise that one of these songs could be the theme song for my latest WIP?  Of course not!  (Was going to share it but couldn't find it anywhere!!!!)

But I did find a few things to share.  Check them out.  And go buy the album...NOW!  It's hard not to feel inspired by the passion these guys have. 

Here they are on American Idol:


One of my favorites from the album and trust me it's hard to choose:


Hope you enjoy this band as much as I do and that they inspire you to rise above "just okay" and towards "on fire!"

Enjoy!

*hugs*
kristi

 

The passage of time...

I was lucky enough to spend some time this Saturday with a bunch of good friends from my college years.  We all gathered together to celebrate the soon-to-be addition of another baby girl to our clan.

There's always someting kind of special about us all getting together and I can never truly describe it.  And often, I wonder if I'm the only one who really feels it.  Maybe I am, maybe I'm not.  (I do tend to be a bit mushy if you couldn't tell and am known as the one who ALWAYS has the camera ready). But really that isn't what's important.  Not at all.

To me, the effort of us all getting together here and there to celebrate each other's lives is, just, well, moving.  We're all busy, we all live in different places, and we all have our own lives.  But I know without a doubt if there's anything I need, those friends would be there in a heartbeat.  And I think that's pretty special.

But, what struck me as funny was that the the mention of my pug, Roxy, and her age is what somehow made us all pause and reflect a bit on how long it had been.  We were all chit-chatting as usual when someone asked (I can't even remember why) how old she was...which made me really have to think about when I'd gotten her.  I'd estimate it was 2000 or 2001 and she's around 10 years old now.  I bought her when my girlfriend, Liz, and I lived together after college, back before any of us were married, had children, or moved away.

Here we were, many of our own kids running around us, as we celebrated the newest pregnancy and caught up on everyone's lives, so much having changed, and all of us barely even noticed.  The kids being around or us growing up has come so naturally that you don't even blink an eye.  Your friends, who they are, those amazing things they do and have become, that remains the same.  We may grow older, but those around us who care about us are getting older too, and it's hard to notice.

But a random fact about an aging dog?  Somehow that put it into perspective, causing us all to stop for a moment, pause, and think about how long we'd all known each other.  And there weren't many words, no lingering statements that I remember, just a feeling.  And that feeling was friendship.

May you all have those friendships that make life special!

*hugs*
kristi

Just a tiny tidbit

You know those daily calendars that some people have on their desk?  The ones with quotes for each day of the week, well, except Saturday and Sunday which they combine into one, which I think is cheating...

My mom gave me one of these for Christmas this past year and I really love reading the messages it gives me each and every day.  Admittedly, most of the time I forget and end up peeling off a few day's messages at a time.  I save the ones I really like, but I have no idea why or what I will do with them.  I just can't seem to throw them away.  Because they mean something.  They're good reminders.  And possibly because I tend to be a word pack rat.

Anyhow, I swear I'm going somewhere with this, in a round about way.  LOL. 

I thought today's message was particularly moving and thought I'd share...

"I am not afraid of storms for I am learning to sail my ship." ~ Louisa May Alcott

That's all.  I was just moved.  Something about this quote is just powerful to me.  It can apply to anything.

Ok.  Ramble over.

*take care on this Hump Day*

kristi  

A few ramblings and Teaser Tuesday!

Ok, so, first of all...I have to say a big

THANK YOU~

to everyone for their sweet and thoughtful comments on Mother's Day.  What a great bunch of bloggy friends I have!  I believe my taste is impeccable and your hearts are golden.  I was moved by them.  And honestly, I love each and every comment.  They are like candy in my in-box that I can't wait to open.  Things have been insanely busy lately and I haven't had as much time as I'd like to be blogging and keeping up, so your comments mean that much more.

BUT, on to more important things.  It's Teaser Tuesday and I may be late today, but I'm still here to post my own. 

Here's another excerpt from my latest WIP,  Sybil.  This one is from Chapter 7.  All feedback welcome!

***Excerpt removed for editing***


Muaw Ha Ha (my attempt at an evil laugh)...let's face it, Teaser Tuesday, is a bit evil, isn't it???

Hope your week is off to a great start!
*hugs*
kristi

Happy Mother's Day!

A few fun quotes for the day:
Being a full-time mother is one of the highest salaried jobs... since the payment is pure love. - Mildred B. Vermont

A suburban mother's role is to deliver children obstetrically once, and by car forever after. - Peter De Vries

All that I am or ever hope to be, I owe to my angel Mother.- quote Abraham Lincoln

Mother is the name for god on the lips and hearts of all children.  - Brandon Lee

Mother love is the fuel that enables a normal human being to do the impossible. - Marion C. Garretty

We never know the love of the parent until we become parents ourselves.- quote by Henry Ward Beecher

You don't really understand human nature unless you know why a child on a merry-go-round will wave at his parents every time around - and why his parents will always wave back. - Special Quotes for Mother's Day by William D. Tammeus

If I had a single flower for every time I think about you, I could walk forever in my garden. - Attributed to Claudia Ghandi

All women become like their mothers. That is their tragedy. No man does. That's his.- Oscar Wilde

I hope you all have a great day - whether you're a mother to a child or a pet, or a man with a special woman in your life, or a child with an amazing mother!

*hugs*
kristi

The Wednesday Book Recommendation

Ok, do you all want to know what I did most of the day Sunday and Monday????  Come on, I know you do!  Well, yes, I did watch baseball, but that's cheating - that's pretty much a given most nights of the week thanks to my MLB package....and Monday was a day off (for my Sox, not for me).  And let's not really talk about that last embarassing sweep...deal?  Deal.

I was hunkered down reading one of the best books I've read in a looooonnnnggggg time.  Maybe I shouldn't play it up too much?  Will you be disappointed if I do????  Maybe.  But the truth is, this book consumed me.  And honestly, I would have never bought it on my own.  Something about the synopsis just didn't grab me the way others sometimes do.  Thank goodness I have bad taste.  Her fabulous Kimness had recommended it a while back and to be truthful, so far I've loved all of her recommendations.  Every.Single.One.  When it comes to Young Adult, this chick knows her stuff.

Among the annoying things this book made me do:  I actually read WHILE watching the Red Sox game on Sunday, which was going horribly wrong.  I found the worse it went the more I read, barely even looking up as the game went on, fully consumed by the book.  I woke up early Monday morning, read it while waiting on my coffee to brew, got to work earlier than usual, spent 10 minutes in a parking garage flipping through the pages, ate lunch at my desk so I could close the door and read for an hour, AND my two year old son actually told me Monday night to "put the book down mommy".  Yes, I realize that last one is a bit shameful, but you get the picture.  Obsessed.  I finished it in two days and have promised my family a few days of attention before I start book #2.  I hear it's just as good.  Surely the wait for book #3 (which doesn't come out until August) will be pure torture.

So, what was it? 

Here's the Goodreads Book Description:

In a future North America, where the rulers of Panem maintain control through an annual televised survival competition pitting young people from each of the twelve districts against one another, sixteen-year-old Katniss's skills are put to the test when she voluntarily takes her younger sister's place.

And here are my thoughts:

I really loved this book if you missed that part.  I give it 5/5 or 10/10! 

This book is definitely a bit darker than most Young Adult novels out right now and I was surprised to find that I loved that about it.  The locations and culture that Suzanne Collin's creates is just as amazing as her characters.  Katniss is one tough, yet fragile girl.  You won't be able to get her and her courage out of your head. 

The way the story is told, each page leaves you enthralled in the action and wanting more.  I could gush on and on, but really, what more can I say besides, I loved it and it consumed me.  To me, reading a book this quickly is the highest honor one can receive.  There was only pure joy (and some tears) in the reading, it not once felt labored or long.

SOOOOO...other than that, I've been tip-toeing back to normal this week, admittedly in withdrawal today without something enticing calling to me read.  Maybe this means I'll get back to my WIP.  It's going well, but I'm feeling a writing break coming on as I make the final push to finish what I can before letting it sit  awhile.  My momentum is fading and I'm horribly missing my blogging buddies.  I've had so many other distractions out there lately.

So, how are you all?  Are you still there?  Hello?  Are you already reading The Hunger Games???

And as for you LOST fans out there, are you as ready as I am for this season to be over and for us to know what happens???  Seriously, I love the show but I'm starting to feel annoyed with them stringing me along.  And last week's rerun was just plain cruel.  But, tonight?  Tonight was pretty good.  I love me some Jack.  And Hurley.  And Sawyer.  And Sun and Jin.  *sniff*  Kate?  Not so much.  She's annoying me.

Time for bed.

*hugs*

kristi