Waiting on Wednesday (30)

WoW is hosted by Jill at Breaking the Spine!

Exposed by Kimberly Marcus
Random House BFYR/2.22.11
Description (from GoodReads):

In the dim light of the dark room, I'm alone, but not for long.
As white turns to gray, Kate is with me.
The background of the dance studio blurred, so the focus is all on her
legs extended in a perfect soaring split.
The straight line to my squiggle,
my forever-best friend.

Sixteen-year-old Liz Grayson is photogirl—sharp, focused and ready to take the world by storm with her camera. But Liz's entire life is called into question when her brother is accused of a crime—and the accuser is Liz's own best friend. As the aftershocks from that accusation rip through Liz's world, everything she thought she knew about photography, family, friendship and herself, shifts out of focus. And for the first time in her life, Liz finds herself unable to trust her own point of view. Told in stunning, searingly raw free verse, Exposed is Kimberly Marcus's gut-wrenching, riveting debut and will appeal to fans of Ellen Hopkins, Laurie Halse Anderson and Virginia Euwer Wolff.

After reading GLIMPSE by Carol Lynch Williams, I'm intrigued by novels written in verse. Especially novels bursting with raw emotion and tough topics, like the description of EXPOSED implies. The novel also caught my attention due to the main character being a photographer. I love that she uses a darkroom... that was always my favorite part of photography! Looks like another amazing debut novel...

Check out my review of GLIMPSE here!

Review: Glimpse by Carol Lynch Williams

Title: Glimpse
Author: Carol Lynch Williams
Publisher: Simon & Schuster/Paula Wiseman Books
Pub. Date: 6.22.10
Genre: Contemporary YA
Keywords: Suicide, Abuse, Sisters, Friendship, Blank Verse
Pages: 496
Description (from Amazon):

In one moment

it is over.

In one moment

it is gone.

The morning grows

thin, grey

and our lives-

how they were-

have vanished.

Our lives have

changed

when I walk in

on Lizzie

my sister

holding a shotgun.

Twelve year old girl Hope's life is turned upside down when her older sister Lizzie becomes an elective mute and is institutionalized after trying to kill herself.
**This is not the full Amazon description. I have had an impossible time finding a good description of GLIMPSE - one told the entire plot and the other told aboslutely nothing. I urge you NOT to read the full Amazon description as it is quite possibly the worst novel spoiler I have ever seen!

It isn't often that I am so emotionally overwhelmed by a novel that I want to simultaneously hug it to my chest and throw it across the room. I was riveted by Hope and Lizzie's heartrending story and, even though it was difficult to read, I found that I was unable to tear my eyes from the pages.


I found it hard to determine if it was the book's content or the age of the narrator that called to my protective side, but it was there in full force. Williams' depiction was so vivid that I found myself completely invested in the characters, which caused many frustrated tears. I wanted to protect Hope and Lizzie from their awful, selfish mother and prevent the tragic events that I felt were sure to unfold.


I haven't read very many books written in verse, but, after GLIMPSE, I may have to. Williams' writing had a much more powerful impact written in blank verse than it would have in any other format. I'm astounded by how the deletion of superfluous words can hone text into a dangerous weapon that cuts straight to the reader's heart.


GLIMPSE is left me swollen-eyed and emotionally drained, but in no way regretting my soggy state. It's often the difficult reads that leave a permanent mark, opening the reader's eyes to an issue or situation that they'd rather avoid. My eyes are officially open. 

Grade: A


Cover Notes:
It fits the novel perfectly. It makes me teary-eyed just looking at it.

Buy It!

Amazon

Cover of the Week (12)

So Shelly by Ty Roth
Delacorte BFYR/2.8.11
Description (from GoodReads):
Until now, high school junior, John Keats, has only tiptoed near the edges of the vortex that is schoolmate and literary prodigy, Gordon Byron. That is, until their mutual friend, Shelly, drowns in a sailing accident.
After stealing Shelly's ashes from her wake at Trinity Catholic High School, the boys set a course for the small Lake Erie island where Shelly's body had washed ashore and to where she wished to be returned. It would be one last "so Shelly" romantic quest. At least that's what they think. As they navigate around the obstacles and resist temptations during their odyssey, Keats and Gordon glue together the shattered pieces of Shelly's and their own pasts while attempting to make sense of her tragic and premature end.

This cover really creeps me out. And, for that reason, I love it.  I'm slightly confused by the book's description, so my interest in the novel is based solely on the cover art... that in itself demonstrates how compelling it is!

(I can't wait to find out what's going on in this novel!)

Review: Freefall by Mindi Scott

Title: Freefall
Author: Mindi Scott
Publisher: Simon Pulse
Pub. Date: 10.5.10
Genre: Contemporary YA
Keywords: Music, Love, Friendship, Loss, Guilt
Pages: 315
Description (from GoodReads):
How do you come back from the point of no return?

Seth McCoy was the last person to see his best friend Isaac alive, and the first to find him dead. It was just another night, just another party, just another time where Isaac drank too much and passed out on the lawn. Only this time, Isaac didn’t wake up.
Convinced that his own actions led to his friend’s death, Seth is torn between turning his life around . . . or losing himself completely.
Then he meets Rosetta: so beautiful and so different from everything and everyone he's ever known. But Rosetta has secrets of her own, and Seth will soon realize he isn’t the only one who needs saving . . .

When I first read through FREEFALL's description I was torn. The cover seemed to call to me, but the description worried me... To be honest, only one seemingly small detail of the description gave me pause: Seth. I often have a difficult time relating to male narrators. In fact, there have only been two such novels that I enjoyed enough to compare to female narrated novels: PAPER TOWNS by John Green and BLACK RABBIT SUMMER by Kevin Brooks. I should never have underestimated author Mindi Scott; I found it remarkably easy to emphathize with Seth.


In ways, this novel was horrifying. I'm from a small town where most kids consider a "good time" a weekend of drunken debauchery. I now live in a college town where the weekend starts on Thirsty Thursday ... and there are still people that like to get an early start. So, for this reason, the drinking and subsequent consequences that occur in FREEFALL hit home. Seth's best friend loses his life on one of their many drunken nights. It's terrifying to think how many times the exact same circumstances could have led to the death of someone I actually know... someone real. I must give credit to Scott for portraying underage drinking and partying in such a realistic way. There's no sugar coating, no shiny veneer - and anyone who says that the situations in FREEFALL aren't realistic is terribly naive. I think it takes an honest portrayal for a message like Scott's to have any real impact on teen readers and authors do a disservice to teens if they try to soften those sharp edges.


As an onlooker, Seth's journey towards the acceptance of Isaac's death and the role his actions played invoked various emotions. I was grateful for the minor characters throughout the novel, who not only facilitated Seth's journey, but provided a much needed reprieve from his darker thoughts. Mrs. Dalloway, who teaches Seth's interpersonal communications class, was definitely one of my favorite characters and reminded me of some of the quirky teachers I've had. She provided humorous situations throughout the novel and the tools and guidance Seth needs to reach out to other characters, like Rosetta.


I found Seth's relationship with Rosetta to be completely believable. Scott's representation of many of the firsts Rosetta and Seth share is, at times, painfully realistic. I closely identified with their first real fight; it was so easy to draw parallels between reality and fiction. The accuracy of the depiction renewed the emotions I had felt when I was in the same situation, causing my bond to the characters to strengthen that much more.


FREEFALL is a tremendous debut from an extremely talented author. Not only did Scott write a male narrator that I could easily identify with, her novel imparts an important message about the choices we make and the consequences that follow... and how, afterward, we must pick up the pieces and move on.


Grade: A


Cover Notes:
I love the simplicity of the cover! Sometimes a cover clearly appeals to one gender over another, but, thankfully, FREEFALL's is neutral.

650 Followers Contest!

It's official. I've reached 650 followers (and only a week after reaching 600)... and I feel like I need to stand up and make a speech or some other grand gesture to show my thanks. So I suppose that means it's time for a CONTEST. But first, I want to tell all you followers out there that I am sincerely grateful that you all take the time to read or browse my blog. I'd still be blogging if I didn't have all you wonderful people reading my recommendations, interviews, and random ramblings - but it wouldn't be nearly as fun! So THANK YOU!

THE CONTEST

Prize:
There will be 1 winner who will have their choice of one of the arcs below.

The Replacement by Brenna Yovanoff (arc)

The Eternal Ones by Kirsten Miller (arc)

Plus a packet of swag!

How to Enter:
Since this a contest in celebration of my followers, you must be a follower/subscriber.  Then you must fill out this FORM.

Extra Entries:
Not required. Extra entries are detailed on the entry form as well.

+1 entries - Old Follower/Subscriber (Thank you!)
+3 entries - Subscribe to The Hiding Spot by email. (on sidebar)
+2 entries - Follow me on Twitter (@thehidingspot)
+5 entries - Add me to your blogroll/sidebar/etc. (Leave a link). 
+3 entries - Tweet this contest. (Leave a link.)
+3 entries - Link this contest on your sidebar, in a post, or on FB. (Leave a link.)
+4 entries - Comment on this post with a suggestion of a book you'd like to see me review!

Details:
Contest will close July 9th, 2010. Open INTERNATIONALLY!

Good luck!

Waiting on Wednesday (30)

WoW is hosted by Jill at Breaking the Spine!

I have two WoW picks today, since one will be released in July and the other is a 2011 release. I'm broken hearted about having to wait for OTHER WORDS FOR LOVE, so I've consoled myself with THE GRIMM LEGACY!

Other Words for Love by Lorraine Zago Rosenthal
Delacorte/1.11.11
Description (from author website):
Ari Mitchell feels invisible at her Brooklyn high school. Her hair is too flat, her style too preppy, and her personality too quiet. And outside school, Ari feels outshined by her beautiful, confident best friend, Summer. Their friendship is as complex and confusing as Ari’s relationship with her troubled older sister, Evelyn, a former teenage mom whose handsome firefighter husband fills Ari’s head with guilty fantasies.

When an unexpected inheritance enables Ari to transfer to an elite Manhattan prep school, she makes a wealthy new friend, Leigh. Leigh introduces Ari to the glamorous side of New York—and to her gorgeous cousin, Blake. Ari doesn't think she stands a chance, but amazingly, Blake asks her out. As their romance heats up, they find themselves involved in an intense, consuming relationship. Ari’s family worries that she is losing touch with the important things in life, like family, hard work, and planning for the future. Meanwhile, Summer warns her that what she feels for Blake is just an infatuation. Not real love. But Ari’s world is awash with new colors, filled with a freshness and an excitement she hasn’t felt in years.
When misfortune befalls Blake’s family, he pulls away, and Ari's world drains of color. As she struggles to get over the breakup, Ari must finally ask herself: were their feelings true love . . . or something else?

I'm on a bit of a contemporary YA kick right now, so OTHER WORDS FOR LOVE hold definite appeal.

The Grimm Legacy by Polly Shulman
Putnam Juvenile/7.8.10
Description (from GoodReads)
Elizabeth has a new job at an unusual library— a lending library of objects, not books. In a secret room in the basement lies the Grimm Collection. That’s where the librarians lock away powerful items straight out of the Brothers Grimm fairy tales: seven-league boots, a table that produces a feast at the blink of an eye, Snow White’s stepmother’s sinister mirror that talks in riddles.
When the magical objects start to disappear, Elizabeth embarks on a dangerous quest to catch the thief before she can be accused of the crime—or captured by the thief.
Polly Shulman has created a contemporary fantasy with a fascinating setting and premise, starring an ordinary girl whose after-school job is far from ordinary— and leads to a world of excitement, romance and magical intrigue.

I'm not sure I have to explain why I'm excited about THE GRIMM LEGACY. I adored Shulman's ENTHUSIASM and I have no doubt that I'll enjoy this one!

CSN Stores and Upcoming Bookshelf Review

A couple days ago, I was contacted by James from CSN Stores. CSN consists of over 200 stores, which means they sell pretty anything you're in the market for, including lighting, home decor, and housewares. There was, however, one store that immediately drew my attention: BOOKCASES.

As a book addict showing no signs of kicking the habit any time soon, I'm always in need of a new bookcase. I live in a dorm during the school year and an apartment during the summer, so I never have a lot of room and I have to haul all my books and furniture up and down flights of stairs every few months. All of this causes me to favor bookshelves that are sturdy with minimal frills. I love hanging bookshelves, but it's near impossible to hang one on a dorm wall (legally), so I steer clear of those. I was happy to find a couple shelves in CSN's store that look like they'd suit me perfectly:

Ore 5 Tier Bookshelf in Black

55'' H Spine Book Tower

I'll be reviewing one of these lovely bookcases soon at The Hiding Spot! Be sure to check out CSN Stores... they have tons to choose from and very reasonable prices! They also advertise hassle free returns and free shipping, which is always nice!

Contest: Win a copy of Everlasting by Angie Frazier!

Angie Frazier is generously donating a signed copy of EVERLASTING to one lucky reader at The Hiding Spot!

Prize:

(1) Signed hardcover copy of EVERLASTING

How to Enter:
You MUST comment on my review of EVERLASTING or the interview with Angie Frazier. (Only one comment is required.) Then you MUST fill out this FORM. If you neglect to comment on at least one of the posts or fill out the form, you will not be entered to win.


Extra Entries:
Not required. Extra entries are detailed on the entry form as well.
+5 entries - Comment on my review or interview (whichever you did not comment on for your original entry)
+5 entries - I've been awaiting EVERLASTING's release for months. Comment on this post telling me about a book you waited months for or are currently waiting for.
+4 entries - Old Follower/Subscriber (Thank you!)
+2 entries - New Follower/Subscriber (Welcome! You will gain 4 entries in the next contest you enter at The Hiding Spot as an Old Follower/Subscriber!)
+2 Follow me on Twitter (@thehidingspot)
+2 Follow Angie Frazier on Twitter (@angie_frazier)
+3 Tweet this contest. (Leave a link.)
+3 Link this contest on your sidebar, in a post, or on FB. (Leave a link.)


Details:
Contest will close June 29th 2010. Open to US and Canadian mailing addresses only. Sorry International readers!

Good luck!

Interview: Angie Frazier (Author of EVERLASTING!)

After months of waiting, I'm thrilled to finally have debut author Angie Frazier here to discuss her debut, EVERLASTING! Be sure to check out my review of the novel too!

________________________

A Brief Bio

Angie lives in New Hampshire with her husband and two daughters, their big black lab, and a pair of highly destructive cats. Her debut young adult novel, EVERLASTING, is the result of an overactive imagination, an addiction to historical research, and dozens of vintage travel posters plastered to the ceilings of a cottage she rented one long, snowbound winter.

_____________________

The Interview

Give a short statement describing EVERLASTING.

EVERLASTING is a romantic adventure set in the Australian wilderness in 1855. After Camille Rowen loses her father in a shipwreck, she learns there might be an ancient stone that could bring him back to life. She also find out that her mother, whom Camille always believed was dead, is in fact alive and has the key to the stone. Camille and Oscar, her father’s loyal (and of course handsome!) first mate, set out into Australia to find her mother and the stone before Camille’s father’s rival can beat them to it.


The setting of EVERLASTING is integral to Camille’s story. How does the time period in which Camille lives shape her actions and personality? In what ways would Camille be different if her story was set in modern day?
I love this question! Yes, the time period is important. In that period young ladies were expected to marry and have babies and please others. If women went against the norm, they were ostracized and set apart. And though Camille has always had a separate kind of freedom sailing aboard her father’s ships, she doesn’t want to bring shame down onto her father or his business, and truthfully, herself. She knows what she wants, but she’s afraid to go after it and lose everything she’s ever known. If the story was more modern day, then the different social classes and the conflict between Camille and Oscar wouldn’t be the same or hold the same weight.


The forbidden romance between Camille and Oscar is definitely one of my favorite aspects of the novel. Camille’s father sees the connection between the two and does not approve. When he is claimed by the sea, Camille and Oscar grow even closer, but Oscar still pulls away out of respect for Camille’s father and for Camille herself, despite his deep love for her. What does this say about Oscar? Do you think that Camille’s father would have eventually come to terms with their relationship?
I don’t think Oscar is only tiptoeing around his feelings for Camille out of respect for her and her father, but also for himself. He knows as well as Camille does that he has nothing to offer her—and 1855 was a day and age when money and position and dowries were all still very relevant and a big factor in marriages. If Oscar was to admit his feelings, if Camille confessed hers to him, and if anything happened between the two of them, then how could Oscar go back from there? He’s protecting himself with his stoic, protector-like persona. And I think Camille’s father would have eventually accepted their relationship, but it would have come at a high cost, and hurting her father or disappointing him would have been torture for Camille.

Character names often contribute to my perception of a character. The main characters, Camille and Oscar, have particularly unique names. Was it difficult to decide names for your characters and is there a particular reason, other than the time period, that contributed to your decision?
If I remember correctly I came up with their names pretty quickly. I wanted something burly and rough for the lead guy, and Oscar fit perfectly. For my main female character, I wanted something sweet yet sexy. I’m actually not sure if Camille or Oscar were popular names during that time period, but I really liked them!


Can you tell us anything about your next YA novel?
Well, my next YA is going to be the second Everlasting book coming out next summer. I couldn’t end Camille’s story just yet. I don’t think I can say anything more about it just yet, but there should be at least a title soon to share.


My blog is dedicated to my personal hiding spot, books. Who, what, or where can be credited as your personal escape from reality?
My escape consists of reading in bed on a Sunday morning with a cup of coffee or tea while my girls eat breakfast and watch PBS cartoons. Just give me an hour and I’m ready to go for the whole day!

_______________________

Thanks, Angie!

To learn more about Angie and EVERLASTING, check out her website and my review.

Review: Everlasting by Angie Frazier

Title: Everlasting
Author: Angie Frazier
Publisher: Scholastic
Pub. Date: 6.1.10
Genre: Historical YA
Keywords: Love, Loss, Adventure, Quest, Magic
Pages: 336
Description (from GoodReads):
Sailing aboard her father’s trade ship is all seventeen-year-old Camille Rowen has ever wanted. But as a girl of society in 1855 San Francisco, her future is set: marry a man she doesn’t love, or condemn herself and her father to poverty.

On her final voyage before the wedding, the stormy arms of the Tasman Sea claim her father, and a terrible family secret is revealed. A secret intertwined with a fabled map, the mother Camille has long believed dead, and an ancient stone that wields a dangerous—and alluring—magic.
The only person Camille can depend on is Oscar, a handsome young sailor whom she is undeniably drawn to. Torn between trusting her instincts and keeping her promises to her father, Camille embarks on a perilous quest into the Australian wilderness to find the enchanted stone. As she and Oscar elude murderous bushrangers and unravel Camille’s father’s lies, they come closer to making the ultimate decision of who—and what—matters most.
Beautifully written and feverishly paced, Everlasting is an unforgettable journey of passion, secrecy, and adventure.


When I first heard about Angie Frazier's debut novel, it didn't even have a cover. All that I knew about the novel was from the short description listing on GoodReads, but I was drawn to the story. To be honest, the description strongly reminded me of the movie Pirates of the Caribbean, which left me intrigued. I'm happy to report that EVERLASTING lived up to my expectations... and actually was a bit like the movie..


I'm usually not a fan of historical YA. Generally, the pace moves too slowly and fails to hold my attention, but EVERLASTING triumped where so many others failed. I'll admit to my attention wavering in a couple spots, but I was quickly pulled back in. Most of the time, once I've lost interest, I can't bring myself to return to the novel, so it's impressive that Frazier could recapture my attention. I think the adventure - and Frazier's inclusion of magic and romance - added excitement and remedied the issues I usually experience with this type of novel.


Oscar and Camille's relationship was definitely the aspect I found most memorable. I'm always drawn to forbidden relationships, especially if they're filled with tension and longing looks. I loved their scenes together!


Frazier has succeeded in writing a tale of epic adventure and romance! It pains me that after waiting months to read EVERLASTING, I'm now waiting (again!) to read its sequel.


Grade: A-


Cover Notes:
Since Oscar and Camille's romance was my favorite aspect of the novel, I like that they are the focal point of the cover. I think the font used for the title is gorgeous as well!

Buy It!

Amazon/IndieBound

Cover of the Week (10)

Cover of the Week is a weekly feature at The Hiding Spot, in which I share a cover that gives me that swoony feeling.

Timeless by Alexandra Monir
Delacorte BFYR/1.11.11
Description (from GoodReads):
When her mother is killed in a car accident, Michele Windsor has no choice but to move in with the wealthy grandparents she's never met in New York. Disillusioned by their coldness, Michele retreats into her room, where she discovers her great-great-aunt's journal--and, once she touches its pages, finds herself hurtled back in time.

In the glamorous Gilded Age, Michele learns that a wedding is coming up between the Windsors and another prominent family, the Walkers. But when Michele attends a party, something miraculous happens: while almost no one can see her in this era, one gorgeous young man with sparkling blue eyes can. Drawn together by mutual attraction, the two bond over music and the parents they've recently lost. But when the party is over, Michele learns the truth--the man she just fell for is Phillip Walker. And she, unknowingly, has just inspired him to call off his wedding to her great-great-aunt, prompting a family feud that will last for generations.
As Michele travels back and forth in time, she and Phillip meet over and over, always frustrated by their inability to have more than a few hours together. Michele knows she should try to make a life in the present, but none of the boys at school can hold a candle to Phillip. Finally, Michele tries to end their romance altogether--spurring a tragedy that transcends generations. Has Michele destroyed her chances for happiness? Or is her love for Phillip . . . timeless?

I was already intrigued by the description of this novel, but the cover art has catapulted it to top of my 2011 wishlist. I love the cover model's expression and can't help but wonder if the necklace she's wearing somehow factors into the story.

Review: The Summer of Skinny Dipping by Amanda Howells

Title: The Summer of Skinny Dipping
Author: Amanda Howells
Publisher: Sourcebooks Fire
Pub. Date: 6.1.10
Genre: Contemporary YA
Keywords: Love, Summer, Family, Secrets, Coming of Age
Description (from arc):

After getting dumped by her boyfriend, sixteen-year-old Mia Gordon is looking forward to spending a relaxing, boy-free summer in the Hamptons with Corinne, her gorgeous and popular cousin. But Corine has better things to do – like ditch Mia at a party.
That’s where Mia meets boy-next-door Simon Ross. After devising a secret signaling system, Mia and Simon meet up nightly to swim in the cool, dark ocean and lie on the beach, talking and looking at the stars. Neither feels like they belong in the exclusive resort community.
Mia isn’t looking for love that summer, but she finds it. She finds a funny, artistic boy who lives boldly. She finds someone who understands her. And she finds herself.

I’m impressed. When I first saw The Summer of Skinny Dipping, I found myself judging it by its cover. It looks suspiciously like many other novels that often feature vapid, annoying characters and an overrated romance. I was so, so wrong. The best part? I knew that Mia would fall for Simon, it’s right in the description, but I could not put this book down. I found it ridiculously easy to identify with Mia and I wanted to examine the details of her summer… to see the how and why behind her love for Simon and the growth she experiences.


The novel starts with Mia heartbroken over the loss of her boyfriend. I’ll admit to being skeptical upon discovering that their relationship only lasted for two months and that Mia claims to have been in love with him. I’ll admit it: I scoffed. Then I remembered what it was like to be sixteen. I would have felt exactly the same way. Plus, I can’t fault Mia’s immaturity; I wasn’t far into the novel before Howells writes her character into the loss of that naïveté.


I’m stunned by Howells’ deftly written coming-of-age tale. There are many YA novels in which the main character spends the summer in the Hamptons, or some similar summer destination, and learns startling truths about herself and the sparkling world that she once thought was so perfect, but I don’t think I’ve enjoyed any as much as Howells’ portrayal. Mia begins the novel with a skewed perception of everyone around her, including herself. Slowly, she begins to see her family as they really are… and finds she couldn’t be further from the truth. So yes, this story has been told before. The difference is the fact that Mia’s voice is perfectly pitched and so real that it reads like a whole new experience.


And then there is the romance between Mia and Simon. I knew it was there all along, yet it still managed to sneak up on me. And punch me in the stomach and leave me gasping. There are so many things going on in this novel that I felt like I was in a hurricane of emotions praying to reach the eye of the storm. Then I finally did, only to be ripped back into the raging storm when I least expected it. *sob*


I’m not sure that my review of this novel is entirely coherent, particularly the bits about the romance, but maybe that’s for the best. I hope it prompts you to pick up this novel, if only because you are so confused that you feel you must discover what I’m blathering on about.


Grade: A


Cover Notes:
As mentioned above, I’m not a fan of the cover. It looks like one of the typical summer back reads, but it’s so much more. I hope it doesn’t dissuade readers!

Buy It!

Amazon

Interview & Contest: Lee Nichols (Author of DECEPTION!)

I'm thrilled to be participating in the DECEPTION blog tour and to have the opportunity to conduct a brief interview with the novel's author, Lee Nichols. Be sure to check out my review too!

A Brief Bio
Lee Nichols is the author of five novels for adults, including the bestselling TALES OF A DRAMA QUEEN. She makes her YA debut in this month with DECEPTION: A Haunting Emma Novel. Follow her on Twitter at LeeXNichols or Friend her on Facebook at Lee Nichols.

_______________________________

Give a short statement describing DECEPTION.

When seventeen-year-old Emma Vaile's parents go missing, she discovers she can see and control ghosts, and that her parents knew this all along. She's thrown into a secret world of ghostkeepers and has to solve an other-worldly mystery. Oh, and lose her best friend and fall for the wrong guy, while trying to maintain a B average at an exclusive prep school.

Emma doesn’t seem particularly worried about the disappearance of her parents, which surprised me. Is the situation one that Emma is accustomed to from years of similar trips? If so, what does this reveal about Emma’s parents? If not, what does Emma’s lack of anxiety reveal about her?
They have gone on long trips before, without being much in touch with her. They're techno-phobic, so she isn't shocked they aren't answering their cell, and she's kind of overwhelmed by everything else that's happening to her. I don't think there's a lack of anxiety. She's constantly trying to figure out where they are and then worries that they're involved with some terrible things that are happening. But yes, their relationship is essentially flawed, even though she loves them and they love her.

Why did you choose to write ghosts into Emma’s story, rather than another paranormal creature or twist?
Because I wanted to write something sort of Gothic, and to me that meant an old house, mystery, and ghosts.


How many novels do you intend to write about Emma? Are you currently working on any other projects?
There are three books total in the Haunting Emma series. Deception is out June 8th, Betrayal in March 2011, and I'm currently writing Possession, which will be published late 2011


My blog is dedicated to my personal hiding spot, books. Who, what, or where can be credited as your personal escape from reality?
Oh, definitely books.

___________________________________

CONTEST

Prizes provided by Bloomsbury!

Prizes:

There will be two winners. Each will receive a finished copy of DECEPTION. This contest is open internationally, so one copy will go an entrant from the US and one will go to an International entrant.

How to Enter:

You MUST comment on my review of DECEPTION or the interview with Lee Nichols. (Only one comment is required.) Then you MUST fill out this FORM. If you neglect to comment on at least one of the posts or fill out the form, you will not be entered to win.

Extra Entries:

Not required. Extra entries are detailed on the entry form as well.

+5 entries - Comment on my review or interview (whichever you did not comment on for your original entry)

+4 entries - Old Follower/Subscriber (Thank you!)

+2 entries - New Follower/Subscriber (Welcome! You will gain 4 entries in the next contest you enter at The Hiding Spot as an Old Follower/Subscriber!)

+2 Follow me on Twitter (@thehidingspot) Leave your @name for verification.

+2 Follow Lee Nichols on Twitter (@leexnichols) Leave your @name for verification.

+3 Tweet this contest. (Leave a link.)

+3 Link this contest on your sidebar, in a post, or on FB. (Leave a link.)

Details:

Contest will close June 25th 2010. OPEN INTERNATIONALLY.

Good luck!

Review: Deception by Lee Nichols

Title: Deception
Author: Lee Nichols
Publisher: Bloomsbury
Pub. Date: 6.8.10
Genre: Paranormal/Mystery YA
Keywords: Ghosts, Love, Murder, Mystery, Powers
Pages: 310
Description (GoodReads):
When Emma Vaile's parents leave on mysterious business trip, it gives her the perfect excuse to be a rebellious teen. Throw some parties, get a tattoo (or maybe just a piercing), and enjoy the first few weeks of her junior year. Then her best friend stops talking to her, the cops crash her party, and Emma finds herself in the hands of a new guardian—her college-age "knight in J.Crew armor," Bennett Stern—and on a plane to his museum-like mansion in New England. After enrolling at Thatcher Academy, Emma settles in by making friends with the popular legacy crowd. But she can't shake the strange visions that are haunting her. She has memories of Thatcher she can't explain, as if she's returning home to a place she's never been. Emma doesn't trust anyone anymore—except maybe Bennett. But he's about to reveal a ghostly secret to Emma. One that will explain the visions . . . and make Emma fear for her life.

DECEPTION has reminded me that it has been entirely too long since I’ve read a good ghostly mystery. When I picked up the novel I thought it looked good, but I wasn’t prepared for how much I would end up enjoying it! I found myself furiously flipping pages and, when I found myself on the last page, lamenting my wait until the next installment.



At first, I wasn’t sure how well I was going to like the author’s treatment of the dialogue. It seemed almost inconsistent: casual one moment and formal the next. Eventually, I either stopped noticing or started to like it, I’m not sure which. As I read, it started to flow very realistically and it was easy to imagine that Emma was sitting next to me narrating the story.


I really enjoyed Nichols’ portrayal of ghosts and Emma’s powers. I’m impressed that each YA ghost novel that I’ve read brings something new to the table. It seems almost easy to differentiate paranormal creatures like vampires and weres, but ghosts require a bit more creativity. Now that the scene has been set, I’m excited to discover what Emma will face in the next book and to see a greater exploration of her powers.


I have mixed feelings about DECEPTION’s romantic plot line. At the beginning of the novel, Emma was extremely immature, which had me worried. I thought that her relationship with Bennett would turn out to be only a school girl crush on her older brother’s friend. Thankfully, Emma morphed throughout the novel. By the end, I could definitely see how a relationship between the two could develop. Nichols throws readers for a bit of a loop at the end of the novel, so I’m desperate to see how Emma and Bennett will find a way around the complication presented.


And holy cliffhanger! I raced to that last page, only to find a cliffhanger of epic proportions! I adore cliffhangers.


Grade: A-


Cover Notes:
I’d pick it up based on the cover. The house in the background is a bit awkward - it’s almost too bright – but I like that the focus on the girl’s face and the wispy smoke.

Buy It!

Amazon/IndieBound

Check out my interview with Lee Nichols and enter to win your own copy of the novel.

Playing Favorites featuring Morgan Matson!

It has been said that playing favorites isn't nice, but sometimes it's impossible not to! Join me weekly at The Hiding Spot as I share a favorite author... and the author shares a few favorite things of their own.

MORGAN MATSON

Genre: Contemporary YA

Book(s):

Amy and Roger's Epic Detour Review

Debut author Morgan Matson has already earned a spot as one of my top YA romance writers. After only one novel, she's demonstrated her ability to write both compelling characters and perfectly paced romance.

MY FAVORITES

Novel: Amy & Roger's Epic Detour.This is Matson's first published novel, but I adored it! I'm a huge fan or road trips, music, and romance, making Matson's debut a must-read. I can't recommend Matson's novel enough, especially if you typically enjoy Sarah Dessen's novels.

Character: Amy and Roger.

I tried, I really did. Both characters had vibrant personalities, plus they're amazing together! Their chemistry kept my eyes glued to the page - I loved their back and forth banter!

Quote: "In addition to the OPEN RANGE CAUTION, there were animal signs I'd never seen before-an antelope, a cow, and cow with horns...But it worried me that, without warning, a cow with horns might be running across the interstate. And that this had happened frequently enough that they'd had to erect a sign to warn people about it."

There are so many wonderful lines from Matson's novel, so it was difficult to choose only one. Now, every time I see a sign like this, I laugh to myself! There are conversations between Amy and Roger that I might favor more than this quote, but I leave them to you to discover!

THE FAVORITE FAVORS

BOOK: Capture the Castle, by Dodie Smith.

Adore that book. If you haven’t read it, I can’t recommend it highly enough. That and anything by P.G. Wodehouse, if you’re in the mood to laugh.

FOOD: Movie-theater popcorn.

Does this even technically count as a food? But I love it. I’ll go see movies I’m not even that interested in to get the popcorn. Lots of butter, tons of salt, inedible to most other people. YUM.

WORD: Ensorcelled.

I love this word, and the fact that I’ve got some of my friends using it is one of the things I’m proudest of. It means entranced by something or someone.

MOVIE: It Happened One Night.

It’s a classic from the 30s. I was so excited to see it get a mention in the new Sex and the City movie. It’s fantastic.

NUMBER: My favorite number is 19.

It’s my birthday, and it’s always been my favorite number. Whether it’s lucky, I’m not sure. But I’m hopeful!

For more information about Morgan and her novel

check out the links below:

Website

Twitter
GoodReads

Waiting on Wednesday (29)

WoW is hosted by Jill at Breaking the Spine!

The Candidates (Delacroix Academy, #1) by Inara Scott
Hyperion/8.24.2010
Description (from GoodReads):
Dancia Lewis is far from popular. And that's not just because of her average grades or her less-than-glamorous wardrobe. In fact, Dancia's mediocrity is a welcome cover for her secret: whenever she sees a person threatening someone she cares about, things just...happen. Cars skid. Structures collapse. Usually someone gets hurt. So Dancia does everything possible to avoid getting close to anyone, belieiving this way she can supress her powers and keep them hidden. But when recruiters from the prestigious Delcroix Academy show up in her living room to offer her a full scholarship, Dancia's days of living under the radar may be over. Only, Delcroix is a school for diplomats' kids and child geniuses--not B students with uncontrollable telekinetic tendencies. So why are they treating Dancia like she's special? Even the hottest guy on campus seems to be going out of his way to make Dancia feel welcome. And then there's her mysterious new friend Jack, who can't stay out of trouble. He suspects something dangerous is going on at the Academy and wants Dancia to help him figure out what. But Dancia isn't convinced. She hopes that maybe the recruiters know more about her "gift" than they're letting on. Maybe they can help her understand how to use it...But not even Dancia could have imagined what awaits her behind the gates of Delcroix Academy.

This book sounds a bit like Armstrong's Darkest Powers books, which has me intrigued. There is enough of a difference that it sounds unique, yet it has elements that I usually enjoy.

Review: Forgive My Fins by Tera Lynn Childs

Title: Forgive My Fins
Author: Tera Lynn Childs
Publisher: HarperTeen
Pub. Date: 6.1.10
Genre: Paranormal YA
Pages: 320
Description (from back of arc):
Lily is a mermaid - a Thalassinian princess who recently discovered she's half human - and she's been living on land and going to Seaview High School hoping to find where she truly belongs. Sure, land has its drawbacks, like her obnoxious biker-boy neighbor, Quince, but it has one major perk: Brody, who makes her heart beat flipper-fast. The problem is, mermaids aren't really casual daters - when they "bond," it's for life. So when an attempt to win Brody's love leads to a tsunami-size case of mistaken identity, Lily is in for a tidal wave of relationship drama, and she finds out, quick as a tailfin flick, that happily ever after never sails as smoothly as you planned.

FORGIVE MY FINS was my first encounter with Tera Lynn Childs' writing, but it won't be my last. FMF is a cute read and great for a lazy summer afternoon... or cold winter day when you need a fun, vibrant world to escape into.


Mermaids will always be one of my favorite mythical creatures. I know I wasn't the only little girl to dream of one day discovering my mermaid heritage. Alright, so maybe I just wanted to have a cool tail and wear a shell-bikini... and fall in love with a cute human boy ala The Little Mermaid. Understandably, I was drawn to Childs' modern twist on this classic love story. The novel doesn't delve too deeply into the detail of being a merperson, but it definitely covers the romantic aspects of the story.


I liked Quince immediately, but I never really connected with Lily's character. She was too shallow and simple for my tastes: I like my female leads to have sass and wit. Since I liked Quince, but found Lily lacking, their romance lost some of it's punch. Still, Quince was absolutely adorable and I found myself rooting for him and urging Lily to open her eyes and see the amazing boy that's standing right in front of her!


Despite the fact that this novel was completely predictable, I enjoyed the ride. Childs appears to have a knack for writing those silly, sappy scenes that you sometimes daydream about. Like being marooned on an island with a cute boy and having to sleep together to conserve heat. I think I can safely say that we all have had some version of that daydream! Because of this, Childs' writing is strangely comforting.


Grade: B


Cover Notes:
FORGIVE MY FINS definitely has an eye-catching cover. I've seen it on bookstore shelves and it pops!