2010 - 75 Books Challenge to feed my addiction!

Book One I am beginning is Fallen - by Lauren Kate

Anyone else read this yet? I have heard good things. Anything that I can't put down is my kind of book.

I like LadyViolet's approach to listing her books read this year!! And I hope you don't mind that I am going to do the same (but in that unusual way we do here over the pond...)

January:
1. Fallen by Lauren Kate- 1/3/10
2. Beautiful Creatures by Kami Garcia and Margaret Stohl- 1/7/10
3. The Lightning Thief by Rick Riordan 1/10/10
4. The Sea of Monster by Rick Riordan 1/17/10
5. The Titan's Curse by Rick Riordan 1/21/10
6. Shadowland by Alyson Noel 1/24/10
7. The Dark Divine by Bree Despain 1/29/10

February:
8. The Battle of the Labyrinth by Rick Riordan 2/5/10
9. Darklight by Lesley Livingston 2/13/10
10. The Last Olympian by Rick Riordan 2/20/10
11. Gone by Lisa McMann 2/24/10

March:
12. The Secret to Lying by Todd Mitchell 3/1/10
13. Once a Witch Carolyn MacCullough 3/5/10
14. Graceling by Kristin Cashore 3/9/10
15. Fire by Kristin Cashore 3/16/10
16. Hourglass by Claudia Gray 3/21/10
17. Tithe by Holly Black 3/24/10
18. Ironside by Holly Black 3/31/10

April:
19. Poison Study by Maria V. Snyder 4/7/10
20. Leaving Paradise by Simone Elkeles 4/8/10
21. Along for the Ride by Sarah Dessen 4/12/10
22. 13 to Life by Shannon Delany 4/15/10
23. Rules of Attraction by Simone Elkeles 4/17/10
24. Daughter of the Flames by Marriott Zoe 4/25/10

May:
25. The Iron King - Julie Kagawa 5/2/10
26. Spells - Aprilynne Pike 5/5/10
27. Cracked up to be - Courtney Summers 5/13/10
28. Beautiful Malice - Rebecca James 5/19/10
29. Cruel Summer - Alyson Noel 5/25/10

June:
30. Daughter of the Forest - Juliet Marillier 6/6/10
31. Some Girls Are - Courtney Summers 6/7/10
32. My Name is Memory - Ann Brashares 6/19/10

July:
33. Kiss of Death - Rachel Caine 7/6/10
34. Linger - Maggie Stiefvater 7/28/10

August:
35: Infinite Days - Rebecca Maizel 8/7/10
36: Flipped - Wendelin Van Draanen 8/12/10
37: Nightshade - Andrea Cremer 8/23/10

38. Glimmerglass - Jenna Black
39. The Clockwork Angel - Cassandra Clare
40. Torment - Lauren Kate
41. Outside Wonderland - Lorna Jane Cook
42. Beautiful Darkness - Kami Garcia & Margaret Stohl
43. Born at Midnight - C.C. Hunter
44.

I haven't read it yet, but welcome to the group!

I've heard great things about Fallen and it's on my list of books to buy.

Welcome to the group!

Thanks, I can't believe I am shooting for 75 books this year. I read 55 last year without paying attention to how many I was reading and I have plenty I am dying to read, but I am also working on my Masters and working so this will certainly be a challenge. A great one though!

Ok so I just finished Fallen. And WOW! I couldn't move from my spot on the couch for the past three hours I was so glued to the pages. I had heard good things about the book, while some said it was OK. I cannot wait for the next book in the series. This book was suspenseful, intriguing, exciting, dangerous, had romance, and interesting characters that threw you for a loop. It was great and I absolutely recommend it, if you like those kinds of things in a book. I was swept away, which is just what I like.

I am starting book 2 now - Beautiful Creatures by Kami Garcia and Margaret Stohl. Anyone read it yet?

Ok so I don't if I am just feeling the excitement of the other book I just finished today(Fallen), but I am only 25 pages into Beautiful Creatures and I'm hooked. It is catchy and I know this will be another one I can't put down. Usually when I finish a great book, I am disappointed that it is over and have trouble getting into the next book for a while. This is a good sign.

Sounds like your reading year is getting off to a wonderful start! Congratulations.

Thanks! I think so too.

Finished Beautiful Creatures, it was amazing! It made me hold my breath so many times. I highly recommend this one too! It set up the sequel very clearly in the end and I will be anxiously awaiting its release, which I'm sure won't be for a long time. There are so many possibilities for the next book.

I think I will begin The Lightning Thief now (Book 3 of 75). I work as a Nanny currently, while I work on my Masters and the older girl loves to read as well. She is nine and last year we read all the Harry Potter books at the same time. She wants to do the same with these, so I think that will be my next adventure. Anyone read them?

Finished The Lightning Thief last night. It was good, exciting and fun. It wasn't Harry Potter, but I enjoyed it. The nine year old girl who I nanny felt the same. It was interesting how the Greek mythology was used and explained throughout the book. It brought the characters to life in our world. I think I will continue with the series for now and see where it goes. So my next book then will be The Sea of Monsters, which will be my fourth book out of seventy-five.

Hi Cpassmore!

I read the Percy Jackson series at the end of last year and loved them. The first one is okay, but the following books are just great. Lots of fun and a great read.

Enjoy :)

Thanks, that's good to know. I liked the first one and will give the next a try but it is encouraging to know that they get better. I will let the little girl I am reading with know too... she will be excited to hear! Any other good books your recommend that are a similar read?

I agree with Pam - the first book is the weakest, but they improve from there.

I'm so glad to hear!! I am currently waiting for the second book to come at the library, so I am starting Shadowland while I wait. I love reading books in a series if you haven't noticed... but the problem is that when I have to wait for the next book to release and I of course read a bunch of books in the meantime, by the time I get to the next book in the series, I have to reread the last chapter of the previous book or hope that the beginning will jog my memory of the storyline again. I know many people have complained about the multitude of series out currently, but I love them because I hate to be done with any good book. I want to continue being wrapped in the world I am reading for as long as possible. Anyhow, I am going to go enjoy shadowland for a while, but first I must take my puppy (who is not really a puppy anymore - a little over a year old) out for a walk and maybe the dog park. How could you say no to this?

I couldn't! Which is why we just have cats, which don't give two figs as to whether you ignore them or not :).

#15: I know I would not be saying 'No' to that!

I have one cat as well, but she does her own thing. She even chases the puppy sometimes.. :) Sammie is more fun though and even tries to lay on my lap while I read.

Finished The Sea of Monsters. It was better than the first, as everyone said it would be. It had unexpected twists that you would never believe until you read it. I wasn't sure after the first book, but now I can't wait to start the third. You get to know more characters and their roles. Definitely an exciting read, with monsters who are both good and bad, characters who were once your enemy become your friend and friends become enemies. I don't know for sure, but possibly a young love or crush may be beginning even. I think I will continue with the series. It's still no Harry Potter, but I would recommend it nonetheless.

So beginning my fifth book out of 75 now. 70 left! :)

Just finished the third Olympians Book. They do get better and better as you go! I am hooked I think. That makes 5 books out of 75 finished. One more this month if I want to stay on track... There are so many moments I just want to be reading, but I have to work, or do work for my classes. Ugh, but at least I should have lots of time tomorrow!

Until the fourth Olympians book is ready for me at the library, I am going to try and finish Shadowland, although I just got Dark Divine in the mail for my birthday and I am dying to read that too!

Hopefully Sammie (my puppy) will be up for laying on my lap all day tomorrow while I devour some books. :)

Nice photo thanks for sharing!

Beautiful puppy!

Your dog is beautiful! I have a golden retriever (well he lives with my parents) who's going to be 13 in March and is still puppylike when his back legs let him.

Thanks for all the compliments. He likes to keep me company while I read. Today is a beautiful day here in Rhode Island, I think Sam and I will go to the park to read.

Souloftherose - 13 is old for a golden. That's great he still has energy! Did you grow up with him? I think Sam will be a lot of fun when my husband and I have kids. We are thinking of getting a second golden actually in the next few years.
Have you read Marley and Me? It's not about a golden, and I'm sure you've heard of it, if you haven't read it, but a great book about a dog. I have A big little life as well in my to read list, that is about a golden.

Finished Shadowland... It was good. The Immortals series is good, but not heart stopping, can't put it down good. I think I liked the first book the best so far out of them. This one, the third one, was slow and had twists, but nothing that had me on the edge of my seat. It barely even had anything to do with the title either. Well, we'll see how the fourth goes this summer.
For now, I have started The Dark Divine. Now this book has me wondering right from the first page. I am only on page 44 right now and I wish I had more time to just sit and read. That is always a good sign. Once I finish this, I will get back to the Olympians. You were all right, they do get better with each book!

So beginning book 7 of 75! :)

#24 We got my golden when I was 16, he is still quite playful but he does get tired a lot quicker than he used to. I'm actually not a big fan of books about animals, I always get too upset for some reason - is Marley and Me a sad book?

Glad you're enjoying your reading so far!

I think I may need to give the other Olympians books a try... I only read the first one, and wasn't particularly impressed, so I didn't continue with the series. I may be missing out.

Souloftherose - Don't read Marley & Me if you already get upset when reading books about animals. I loved it, but yet it is sad. As always animals do not live forever. It is an amazing book abou starting your life, having a family and a dog, but absolutely I cried. I laughed a lot, but I cried too. The movie is a killer too... I sobbed for the last 30 minutes straight.

_Zoe_ - I felt the same way. I did not really enjoy the first Olympians book. It was slow and flat and not so exciting. I took everyone's advice and read the second book, which was better than the first. The end was great too. That made me pick up the third book which is definitely worth reading the rest of the books to get to. I am finally happy to begin the fourth book soon. They are no Harry Potter, but the adventure is fun and you learn more about everyone as you go. Let me know if you try them. Now that I have started, I have to know what happens, so I will continue.

The Dark Divine - I don't know if there will be a sequel, but there could be and I wouldn't hesitate to read it. This book was intoxicating. I didn't expect it to be so good. Yes, Grace Divine's family is a religious one, but this book is not overly religious. It is worked into the storyline with ease. I held my breath through so many pages. It was a great read! I would absolutely recommend this book!

#29: That one looks pretty good! Into the BlackHole it goes.

The Olympians series absolutely gets better with each book. The Battle of the Labyrinth was great. Percy's adventure was exciting and interesting. There are some new monsters, new characters who play a large role and Percy is getting older. He is able to make decisions more easily and control his powers as well. So far I have liked this one the best, which hopefully means the fifth will be even better. I can't imagine the series could end after one more book though. Percy will only be 16, but the inevitable prophecy will supposedly be fulfilled.

Starting Darklight until I get the next Olympians book at the library. Book 8 of 75 finished.

#31: I agree with you about the Percy Jackson series - I thought it improved from book to book. I had great fun with that series!

I too liked Fallen. I really did not think I would and I will even admit to almost not wanting to like it cause I am tired of the whole teenage supernatural scene, but somehow Fallen really got to me.

I have never read Marley and Me but I saw the movie. I was trying to hold it together for most of the movie but when they are all saying goodbye to Marley and the mom asks the eldest son what if he wants to say anything and he goes "He knows", oh gosh, I did lose it. Loving and losing a pet is a hard, hard thing and that movie brought it all back.

Finished Darklight! Great second book to the trilogy... and it left me hanging for the third book. Actually the end was heart wrenching. I'll definitely read the next one. The Wondrous Strange series is one of the best faerie series I have read. Kelley's inner battle with her parents and the love of her life is very believable. It makes you wonder what is out there that we can't see or understand. Anyone know the title of the next one or when it'll come out?

Now I am working on the last Olympian book. :)

Starting book 10 of 75!

Finished The Last Olympian. Best book in the series!! This one had adventure, action, and blossoming love. Percy has grown up a great deal by this book and finally turns 16. The Great Prophecy is fulfilled and events you would never expect happen. You learn about past events that make everything more clear and the writing has greatly improved from the first book. If you started these books unsure if you were going to enjoy the series, stick with it. You will be happy you did. I hope to see more from Rick Riordan about the half-bloods of Olympus.

Starting book 11 of 75, reading has seemed to slow down this month with all my classwork but hopefully I will get a little extra free time soon!

Happy Reading

I agree with you about The Last Olympian - I thought it was the best book in the series as well. I am glad you enjoyed it!

Hi - I just wondered over and saw your dog pics. He's adorable! I also have a golden and she's my baby even though she just turned eight. Her picture is on my profile page. They are just the best dogs, aren't they? But I'm just slightly biased!

Coppers,

Your golden is precious. I love goldens! My Sammie is just a little over one year old. He loves to snuggle and play. He has the most fun in the snow, water, or mud! He will lay with me while I read or hang out in the park. We would like to get a second golden actually, so that he has a playmate to tire him out even more than I can. That will be another year or so though. Have you read Marley and Me or A big little life? Both about dogs. I have a big little life on my bookshelf waiting for me actually. Marley and me is a great book though!

Just finished Gone. Great book as usual. I loved this series. I think the first one was my favorite though. The way that Cabe and Janie found each other and their relationship grew. The writing is unique. It is direct and just tells you what they are thinking, or doing without any extra fluff. As if you are inside their heads, just experiencing it or living their thoughts. It doesn't have definite happy ending, but it ends well, as it would in life. They are short reads, but certainly worth it.

Starting The secret to lying now. I am only on page 1 and I like it already.
(book 12 of 75)

The Secret to Lying, is about a boy who doesn't feel that he fits in at his school or even at home. He feels overlooked everywhere he goes, until he is offered the chance to go to a new school. A boarding school for nerds actually. James figures anything would be better than his life the way it is, so when the next school year starts, he is living in a dorm and starting over at a new school. The thing is, James believes that his life was too boring to let anyone know about his actual life, so instead he tells them any exciting tale he can about his so called life prior to this new school. He becomes a guy that he thought he always wanted to be at his new school, but never actually feels like he is that guy. A new school and a new start doesn't make you feel any less lost if you just go through the motions. There was one grounding force though for James, Ghost44.

This book was captivating and funny. It was exciting and unexpected, yet made you think about how hard it is to find yourself and accept who you are. I thought this was a great read. It has real dilemmas portrayed in an unusual way. James deals with many of his inner conflicts through his dreams, which sometimes overlap with his reality. This adds another interesting aspect to the book. The writing holds your attention and keeps you wondering, whether James is fighting demons, telling his newest lie at his new school, or finally being himself with Ghost44, I was intrigued. This is definitely a book I would recommend!

GREAT READ! Give it a chance.

#40: Well, I tried, but my local library does not have that one, so I will have to search elsewhere. Thanks for the recommendation!

Alcottacre - I only have it from early reviewers, it doesn't come out until June 8th of this year. It's a good read though, so maybe add it to your list for later in the year... :)

42: OK, I guess I can forgive the local library this once :) Thanks for letting me know.

:) That's good... I know mine is pretty good. Rhode Island lets you borrow from any library in the state. I can usually find anything unless it has just been released.

Once a Witch, was about power, the complications of family and love. It took a while to begin unraveling but it was worth the wait. It was a short read, that started slow but held my attention as I wanted to understand more and find out why. Things are not always as they seem. The aspects of having Talents as witches was similar to other YA novels where vampires have such abilities. I enjoyed this book tough and it was definitely an interesting read.

Not sure what I'll be starting next... but I have a few on my bookshelf I have been dying to get to. I have Tithe by Holly Black, but if it's good I'll want to buy the rest in the series, so I feel like I should read the others I already have now...

So I decided to start Graceling instead and I am not regretting it at all... I started it yesterday and can't put it down for anything. I should be getting work done to finish up my classes for the quarter, but I just can't pull away from this book. Better finish soon or find a way to come up for air.

#46: I still need to read that one!

It's well worth it! I'm just a little past half way now, but the writing and the characters just draw you in and I can't get enough.

#46 Graceling is on my wishlist too - glad you're enjoying it!

I started reading Graceling last night and am really enjoying it (though I'm only 66 pages in). I'm not normally much of a reader of fantasy books but this one is really drawing me in. What a superb heroine Katsa is so far. I'm really looking to when the kids have gone to bed this evening so I can read some more.

Verdelambton - It only gets better as you go... The characters are very well developed and so you feel apart of them. It is a fantasy, but it feels medieval to me with a little something extra. I hope you continue to enjoy it. I couldn't put it down for the past few days. I think I'll start the prequel now, Fire.

Just finished Graceling. Graceling is a sort of Robin Hood story. Katsa isn't what she thinks she is and because of that many fear her. Katsa is a strong, powerful, and passionate individual with an amazing personality. The writing is perfectly enthralling and well developed that while reading the book, you feel you know Katsa and the people she encounters and cares for. As Katsa experiences her life, she learns about herself and who she really is and wants to be. In the end, she is an even stronger person than the killer she is believed to be.

Onto Fire now.

Fire - This book has a different story than Graceling, yet it still as great. The characters are incredibly well developed. Normally I would feel that the book was going too slow with all the details that is given in this book, but somehow the details don't bog it down or make it annoying. Fire is a unique personality as was Katsa in Graceling. The characters around her draw you in as well and I was left yet again hoping for more. Fire is not what everyone thinks she is because of those that came before her. Fire is her own being and must find her own way to be her. Archer, Brigan, Clara, Musa, Brocker, Roen, Nash, Hanna... they are all great characters that add something special to the story. I again would absolutely recommend this book and Graceling. They are not sequels or even related aside from one character that carries over between them. If you enjoy, adventure, love, finding your way, a little mystery and some supernatural, I'd suggest picking this up.

Hourglass - Another great book in the series. This book took a slightly different turn from the previous books in the series. Bianca and Lucas were no longer at Evernight Academy, but hiding within Black Cross. Bianca learned more about what life had been like for Lucas in Black Cross while trying to hide her true identity. The situation put both Bianca and Lucas in a difficult situation many times and left them running for their lives. Little did Bianca know what her true choice was going to be in the end. I am not sure how the series will continue with the next book in the series. I have mixed feelings about the ending, but I have enjoyed these books, so I will see where the next one takes me.

Beginning the Holly Black Series. Tithe: a Modern Faerie Tale.

Tithe - This first book in the series was slow to start. I wasn't sure where it was going or if I even really liked it until around page 180ish... It was a sad, frustrating story about a girl's life, growing up with a mom who drank a lot and never met the right guys. A girl who dropped out of school at 14 to help buy food and pay the bills. The girl who everyone thought was weird and didn't quite understand. She believed in faeries, but what did that matter? Until she found out the truth of why she believed in faeries and who she really is. Kaye is clever, sweet, caring, and brave. This book blooms into a story of love, loss, finding yourself and friendship. I ended up really enjoying it.

Finished Ironside. I actually skipped Valiant and don't think I will read it just yet. Ironside was a good book, although frustrating at times. It felt as slow as Tithe did, yet I knew more of what was going on. Kaye and Roiben are an interested pair and I couldn't stop because their personalities make you want to understand and find out how it'll end. I enjoyed the ending though in a way that leaves you wondering. I think I enjoyed Ironside slightly more than Tithe, but I wouldn't say it was my favorite tale of faeries. It is dark and sad in so many ways, while somehow I am left at the end with a sense of contentment.

I am not sure what my next book will be, but I think I will start the next book in the Vampire Diaries series that recently was released, Vampire Diaries Shadow Souls The Return. Anyone read it? Any thoughts?

Sorry, I have not read that one.

Ok so do you ever feel like you just aren't in the mood for a certain kind of book? Well I do. I have to be in the right mood for a book. So I just couldn't start the Vampire Diaries book yet. Instead I started Poison Study, which I had begun last year and couldn't get into, but this time really enjoyed!

Poison study is a great read. I found it slow to start yet there was intrigue in Yelena's situation. As you learn about Yelena and her life you become drawn in. Will her life ever look up? Does she have a chance? It seems she was always in a bad situation, but she has made it so far. Was it magic or pure strength of will? Poison study is an interesting read. Yelena must either die for her crime (which should truly be self-defense) or possibly die tasting the commander's food for poison. A small woman seems to everyone not to stand a chance in such a profession, but Yelena proves everyone wrong and changes the thoughts people have about who she really is. I am excited to see how Yelena's story will continue to unfold in the next book: Magic Study.

I wish I could start the next book in the series immediately, but I had already requested a bunch of other books at the library, so I have to read those now. I find it tough though not to read a series one after another if the books are already released. I'll live though... Any thoughts anyone on this series? Does it get better, more intense, stay as great as it is??

I have not read any of the books in the series, but the reviews I have seen here in the group of the Snyder books indicate that the first one is the best.

That's a bummer alcottacre. The first was definitely very good, and I always hope that increases or stays consistent. I will have a little while before I get to them though, so maybe that will help.

I actually started and finished another book today. I am between graduate classes right now and so I had a day to myself. This book was great. It is called Leaving Paradise by Simone Elkeles. I could not put it down.

I loved this book but the ending was torture! How could it end that way? I don't want to spoil anything for anyone, so I won't say more. It was captivating book that held my attention. I read it in 6 hours. Caleb and Maggie's story was unique and riveting. I loved and hated them both, I felt shivers, and yet was heartbroken. The writing was great and the characters incredibly well developed. The twists and turns weren't even expected as in many novels. Definitely a great story of love, loss, family and friendship.

I am happy to say there will be a sequel in November so the ending isn't as horrible as it felt when I finished it today.

Now I am onto Along for the ride by Sarah Dessen. It will be my first Dessen.

#59: Simone Elkeles has another book out, Perfect Chemistry, that I have seen several good reviews for, if you are interested.

Thanks alcottacre. I actually read Perfect Chemisty last year and loved it! There is a sequel coming out on Tuesday. I never expected there to be a sequel but I am very excited there is one!

I am also super excited because I just received in the mail right now my early reviewers copy of 13 to Life and it's a great cover!! I can't wait to finish the book I am reading and begin this one! I just can't seem to read enough lately. Everything has been so good!

Yeah.. I have... it's ok but it has a weird ending... I liked it though.. but I wish I hadn't read it untill the next one comes...

#61: Congratulations on being on such a good reading tear!

Thanks alcottacre!

Just finished Along for the ride. I absolutely loved this book. The story had a lot of detail yet did not feel slow. The world that was built was complex and involved. The characters were intricate and surprised you when you least expected it. Auden learned who she really was and how to be who she wanted to be. People can change and grow if they choose to. This was a feel good book about life, love, friendship and growing up. Highly recommended!

#65: I already have that one in the BlackHole. Looks like I need to bump it up some.

It is definitely worth it!

I received an Early Reviewers book this month and just finished it.

13 to Life -
I really enjoyed this book. I was excited to read it when I first read the synopsis, although the beginning of the book had a bit of an uncomfortable feel to it. The book is mysterious. Pietr and Jessica's past are unclear yet something is definitely going on with Pietr. What threw me off though was if there was something going on with Derek? He seems to scare some, be manipulative, while kind as well to others. By page twenty five I was intrigued and unable to put the book down. Yes, this book has similar elements to others in its genre, but the interactions between Jess and Pietr draw you in. Jess has spunk, she is strong without realizing it, yet she needs some security as well, she cares for others without regard for herself to the point that it is frustrating, but ultimately it is hard not to like Jess. The relationship between Pietr and Sarah makes you want to pull your hair out. The dilemma Jess is in with her friend and the boy she cares about made me want to scream, but complications just made the book more enthralling. Will Jess allow herself to be happy? Will she prove to Pietr she cares for him too? How far will she go to prove herself and how much she cares? You will find out and then you'll be left hanging... wanting more! I know I am.

#68: I will have to watch for that one. Thanks for the recommendation!

I believe it releases June 22. :) By the way, Thanks for following me too!

#70: OK, I will start looking for it come June. Thanks for letting me know.

Rules of Attraction - The sequel to Perfect Chemistry was just as intoxicating as the first. The storyline was different enough as not to make it feel like same story, but the same great elements were still found in the book. It was dangerous, edgy, provocative, and exciting. Alex and Brittany still make an appearance in this book, which is nice to see how their lives continued. Carlos is very similar to how his brother was in the first novel, while Kiara is not just another Brittany. Both Carlos and Kiara bring a new excitement to the sequel, as well as Kiara's unexpected family. It is hard not to love Kiara's family. This book has adventure, sarcasm, romance, quite a few firsts for both characters, and well it is just hard to put down.

Daughter of the Flames Good read. I enjoyed the story, but it felt rushed. I felt as though it needed more detail or to be slowed down. Zahira is an interesting character who is dealing with a lot. She seems to handle everything in stride, but the plot unfolds too abruptly. I felt like it needed to occur more gradually and without as much haste. I really liked Sorin, but couldn't believe what happened to him. I liked many of the characters but felt they needed more attention. Even Zahira/Zira who was well described seemed rushed through. The book is medieval as well as fantasy. It has romance, family, deception, and action. Overall, I would still read another book if one were to be released about Zahira.

#72: I will give Daughter of the Flames a try. Thanks for the review and recommendation.

>72 Cpassmore: I want Rules of Attraction *soo* much!! I read Perfect Chemistry earlier this month and loved it!
I read another book by Zoe Marriott earlier this year called The Swan Kingdom which was pretty good, not jaw-droppingly amazing mind but still an enjoyable read that I wouldn't mind re-reading if the fancy struck me.
I've been lurking a while - we have had several reads in common so far this year so I hope you continue to read awesome books :-)
*dematerialises back into lurkdom*

LadyViolet - Definitely read Rules of Attraction, if you enjoyed Perfect Chemistry, you will enjoy this one too! I couldn't put it down. I will have to check out your library, I am always looking for more books that I will like. Not that my TBR list isn't big enough... :)

Alcottacre- It is certainly a good read. I thought it needed more, but the main character has a strong personality that makes it worth your while.

#74: I had already added The Swan Kingdom to the BlackHole based on your recommendation, Rachel. I wondered why Marriott's name sounded familiar.

The Iron King - An interesting take on the world of faerie. This book is different than many other books of its kind. I found the story to lag a bit though until about page 200. The romance doesn't begin until almost the end of the book as well. Meghan is a typical character who doesn't realize who she is and her own capabilities. As the story progresses Meghan learns about herself and who she is. Meghan is a caring, selfless, powerful girl who could be used as a great weapon. Although this story seemed slow and didn't really get moving until close to the end, I will still be waiting for the next book to follow. The ending leaves you wondering and the build up of adventure, romance and what may happen in the world of faerie make me believe the next book will take off from the beginning.

I'm not sure what I am in the mood for right now. I want a read that I can't put down from the beginning and that is well written with just enough detail.

>77 Cpassmore: I've been wondering whether I should get a copy of The Iron King as I've heard good things and I'm always intrigued by faery stories since they're just so *different* to the truckload of vamp/werewolves/angels/witches etc. books floating about - there's a mysterious quality that I like about them although thinking about it (my brain is working on near-dead batteries at this hideous hour) I don't think I've actually read that many stories involving faeries. But saying that Ash which I read recently does have a strong fey element added into the whole fairytale retelling which was lovely. Just looking at the UK front cover makes you feel a tad trippy with all the funky, shiny colours (good grief I'm sorry for the rambling incoherency I really ought to go).

Oh and I like how you've borrowed my list style :D I just find it so bizarre that you put the month first in the date like that! :S my mind is boggled *flees before her insanity infects the whole thread*

LadyViolet - I don't know how you manage to be up and as coherent as you were that late at night/morning. I enjoy sleep too much to make it that far into the night or get up that early depending on which you were doing.

The Iron King is worth reading, possibly a good library book though, just in case you don't fall in love with it. I think the second will spring right into the action and story though so I am not disappointed that I spent the time slowly getting to know Meghan in the story and her life.

Hmm, I don't think Ash is on my list... I'll have to check it out.

I honestly don't know how I manage sometimes but I'm an incurable night-owl and mornings which begin before 10am are horror-inducing so I inevitably end up still being awake at stupidly late hours of the night (which is really bad if I have classes the next morning)

I shall have to wait and see if my local library has the Iron King since it is the back of beyond and the UK library system just isn't as awesome as the US system sounds.

I must say the library system in Rhode Island is great. We have one in most towns and we can request a book from any one of the libraries and pick it up nearby. They never seem to take too long either unless there are a lot of people requesting the book I want.

I'm looking forward to reading The Iron King sometime soon, it's been on the TBR list for a few months now... but I'll check it out from the library instead of buy it, as you recommend :) Nothing more disappointing than spending money on a sub-par book!

With my family in town, classes having constant work due, and all the regular craziness, I don't get nearly enough time to read. I hope I can finish the 6 more books I need to this month to stay on track. Not to mention these books have been so good and yet having to sit there next to me... calling my name.

Spells - Most often sequels are sub par compared to the first book in a series, but that is not the case with this book. This sequel to Wings, was enchanting. It was bittersweet, beautiful, exasperating, while still kept you on the edge of your seat with danger lurking around every corner. Laurel was enveloped in what her faerie world is truly like and those that are in that world as well, while still living in the human world. Laurel is not human, but unable to feel or be a faerie either. She can't do both though without hurting someone. She must be strong for everyone, to save her family and friends as well as the faerie world she belongs to. The decision she must make is heart wrenching and yet what must be done. But the question is what will those that care about her do? I can't wait for the next book in the series. The ending was perfect and unbelievably suspenseful leaving you dying for more.

The nice thing about books is that they patiently wait for you until you have time to get to them!

Very true, but I am determined to read 75 this year. I read about 55 last year without trying for any number, but now that I have a goal I am not one to let myself not reach it. I have figured out how many books per month I need to read and how many days I approx. have for each based on that... I know I am crazy, but it reminds me how much I need to get through. Of course I would read more if I could, but with school, work and everything else it's difficult, Oh and I love sleep! :) If I could just cut out the sleep I would be all set.

#85: As someone who schedules her reading, I know what you mean and do not think you are at all crazy. Of course, not sleeping always helps too :)

Cracked up to be: a good read about a girl who feels responsible for a friend's loss, and has trouble dealing with her life afterward. It is not easy for some to handle responsibility and expectation, Parker was always the girl who did everything to perfection, until she didn't and she didn't know how to handle the consequences. If Parker couldn't be perfect, then she would be perfectly a mess. This book didn't sugar coat anything. Parker said and did what she wanted. She was obnoxious and crude. She was honest to the point of no return except when it came to what happened. It was a good read and certainly captivating, but a sad story.

Beautiful Malice was one of the most captivating books I have read in a while. The writing made every moment vivid. It was both a sad and beautiful book. It was somewhat difficult to understand at first because the chapters sometimes skipped between different times in Katherine's life, but eventually it all makes sense as the pieces of each of the chapters come together. Katherine's life was by far, not easy. She is a strong woman to withstand and find happiness in a life so difficult and with so much loss. The words that bring this book to life absolutely envelope you and seep out to hold your attention. I think the best way to describe this book, is raw. It is filled with great emotion, great loss, great love, and great friendship. Every moment another twist in the story changes one feeling to another. The actions of the characters are so awful sometimes yet written with such intensity. This is a book you will not be able to put down, that may make you cry, while making you appreciate the good in life. Absolutely a recommended book!

#87: I already have those two in the BlackHole. I just need my local library to get them.

Cruel Summer - Colby is a whiny, selfish brat for the most part. She doesn't stop to realize that spending the summer abroad in a quaint, beautiful, romantic village is amazing or even interesting. All Colby can think about it not being popular. Colby doesn't realize she is interesting, fun and doesn't need to be hanging out with the so called popular crowd in California in order to have a good life. She whines, mopes, drags and is an utter annoyance to read about for most of the book, but you can't help but hope she will eventually stop and see what it right in front of her. It takes Colby too long, but she eventually realizes what matters in life and finds happiness. It would be interesting to hear what happens her Senior Year though after such a summer.

A quick read for the summer months, but nothing outstanding.

#89: I think I will skip that one!

ihate to read!!!

Finally finished Daughter of the Forest. It was a slow book to start. It was interesting and the writing was great, but a deep book that takes a while to really begin moving along. It was filled with horrible experiences and awful sadness, but was still a really great read. There are more in the series that I will absolutely read as well, but I think I will read a book in between.

Some Girls Are - A book about high school and what teens go through while they walk the halls. Everyone either says high school is not easy and it is one time they would never choose to go back to or it was the best time of their life. What makes the difference is if you were on the inside of the popular crowd and wanted to be there or if you weren't. Regina was on the inside, but the problem was she hated it. She wanted to have real friendships and people who actually cared about her, but it's not always so easy when the most popular girl wants you by her side or to suffer if your not. This book was well written, vivid in its awful detail of each terrible moment. Like I said, High School is not easy, and that is Regina's story.

My Name is Memory- A great read. You will find yourself swept into Daniel's many lives and his longing to find Sophia and actually get the chance to spend time with her. It is a heart wrenching book about love and life. I really enjoyed this book and will happily await the sequel.

#94: It looks like the local library is getting that one. It is currently 'in processing.'

It's a good one. I tried reading another by that author before and found it too slow and was one of a few that I never finished. This one was good though.

Kiss of Death - This book was good. It had the same elements the other books in the series had. It held my attention, was mysterious, dangerous, exciting, and didn't leave out the romance.

Currently reading too many books and therefore haven't finished any in a while.

Reading:
Eat Pray Love
The Son of Shadows
and
The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo

#97: Nice reading in that list. Enjoy!

I had a break from classes and work, but I was so wiped out that I didn't even finish a book. Now I have classes, work, trying to find a new job, moving in a month, and so much more and I have about 10 books I want to read all at once. Of course I can't so I am trying to just enjoy one at a time.

Currently reading Linger by Maggie Stiefvater because I couldn't wait.

Then the book I received for the June batch so I can review it. Then I will try to finish Eat, Pray, Love before moving on to The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo that I am borrowing from a friend.

The crazy thing is that isn't even close to all the to read books I actually have on my shelf or the to read books I want to order/get at the library...

Whoo... Overwhelming. And the sad thing is because I have taken like a three week break, I am not sure I am going to make it to 75 which bums me out, but we will see.

That's all right, it's really not about the numbers in the end... it's about the journey through reading great books. Take it one book at a time, you'll get through them! Good luck with finding a new job AND moving at the same time... that's a lot to get through at once. I hope you're able to find some quiet time to yourself in there.

What Faith said!

Sorry to hear things have been so busy. As long as you are enjoying the books you are reading don't worry about the numbers. The books you have lined up sound good - I really enjoyed The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo trilogy.

Thanks everyone for the encouragement!! It has been crazy around here. I am currently a nanny and the family I work for is also moving so I have been helping them with that as well as working on moving myself. They also just adopted a puppy that I have been training and teaching them how to care for. The job search has been slow, but hopefully something will happen in this month.

Just finished Linger which was great! Maggie creates a world of words that I can't help but get lost in. I would have never expected the ending, but that just means the adventure has not yet ended. Grace and Sam are finally together, a couple so in love its obvious even to strangers. They are both linked through the wolves but in more ways that we all expected. Olivia did not make an appearance in this novel as was expected but I am sure we will return again. Isabel played a greater role than in Shiver but her character was a great addition when paired with the the other new character. Overall I rate this a 5 out of 5. I have yet to read a book by Maggie Stiefvater that I don't love.

I am now reading Infinite Days, which has started off good. :) I will get back to the others soon...

Thanks again everyone. Happy Reading!

I am really looking forward to reading Linger if my local library ever gets a copy. I am glad you enjoyed it!

Infinite Days - Lenah was not the usual character. She did not seek to become a vampire. She did not fall in love with a vampire. She was a sixteen year old girl attracted to a man who changed her life. All Lenah truly wanted was to live, to smile, laugh, and feel the world as a sixteen year old girl. Her life was filled with horrible acts, but when she was finally given the choice, she became what she always wanted. Getting everything you have always wanted does not come easily though and for Lenah that couldn't have been more true. I will be awaiting what black magic has in store in the next book.

Flipped - This book is more than a kid's story about growing up. It is a great life lesson. It is well written and holds even an adult's attention. This book is quirky and fun, while inspiring and beautiful. It is definitely a book that will stay on my shelf!

Nightshade - Nightshade is an addictive read. Calla has a strong personality that draws you in. She has been taught what life is like and how she should live. She accepted that life until she met Shay who changed everything. Calla is the alpha wolf of a pack of Guardians and her greatest desire is to keep those she cares for safe which includes her pack, but that doesn't prove to be easy when all she knows is turned upside down. Renier is also an alpha wolf of another pack of Guardians. Ren has always been meant for Calla, merging the two packs for a common goal. Ren is a strong male who is respected by everyone, and has one soft spot, Calla. The events that unfold in this book will grip you until the end and still leaving you hoping for more.

#106: Adding both of those to the BlackHole. Thanks for the recommendations!

Anytime. :) Glad to recommend great books!