Favourite YA Book Covers of 2011

One last post before the new year! I wanted to do more of these Favourites posts but I ha my birthday and Christmas and family and everything just kept getting in the way but anyway book covers! All these book covers are 2011 YA releases that I have read! Therefore, there might be prettier covers out there but I haven't read the book therefore it's not on the list! :)

Badass Bookie's Favourite YA Book Covers of 2011

1) Fury by Elizabeth Miles - Review

2) Imaginary Girls by Nova Ren Suma - Review

3) Die For Me by Amy Plum - Review

4) Lola and the Boy Next Door by Stephanie Perkins - Review

5) The Goddess Test by Aimee Carter -Review

Runner - Ups

Clockwork Prince by Cassandra Clare - Review to Come

The Girl in the Steel Corset by Kady Cross - Review

Beautiful Days by Anna Godbersen - Review

Hunting Lila by Sarah Alderson - Review

Where She Went by Gayle Forman - Review

Badass Bookie xx

Favourite YA Sequels of 2011!

The other day I wrote a post of my favourite YA Debuts today I'm posting my favourite sequels of 2011! This list only applies to novels that aren't the first book in the series! :) The novels are not necessarily published in 2011 but they have to be read by me (duh!) :)

Badass Bookie's Favourite Sequels of 2011

1) Uncommon Criminals by Ally Carter - Review

Heist Society was one of my favourite reads of last year and I just devoured Uncommon Criminal. Ally Carter is simply brilliant and clever when it comes to action-packed novels. I respect that she writes her novels so that the romance is the centre of everything. This is one of my favourite series! You can't go wrong with Ally Carter!

2) Clockwork Prince by Cassandra Clare - Review to Come

It goes without saying that I'm in love with Clare's Shadowhunter world. I love The Mortal Instruments but I love The Infernal Devices series better! I only just finished this book last night and wow, completely blew my mind. No one writes romance like Cassandra Clare and no one can make me laugh like her! Clockwork Prince was everything I thought it would and more! A must-read! TEAM JEM <3 

3) Defiance by Lili. St Crow - Review

The Strange Angel series is one that I have come to love and Defiance is my favourite book of the series so far! I've only got Reckoning to read and part of the reason I haven't is because I don't want it to be the end! Dru is badass and fearless, she reminds me a lot of Rose Hathaway from Vampire Academy and the boys in this book are just gorgeous! 

4) Lola and the Boy Next Door by Stephanie Perkins - Review

I know technically that Lola is a companion novel not a sequel but when I think Lola I think Anna and they just seem like a series to me you know? Anyway, what is there not to love about Perkins? She's brilliant and her novels are a guaranteed funny, cute and romantic, ditch-your-date worthy reads! I have to say that I liked Anna better but Lola was amazing as well and many people have said they like Lola better so to each for their own!

5) Beautiful Days by Anna Godberson - Review

I'm officially in love with the Jazz Age, I mean, the glamour and the parties and the scandals! I wasn't that much of a fan of Godberson's The Luxe series but I found myself really enjoying this series! Beautiful Days was a combination of drama and romance and I fell in love with the characters as well as the 1920's. This is historical fiction at it's best!

Runner - Ups


Demonglass by Rachel Hawkins - Review 

The Lost Saint by Bree Despain - Review

It's Not Summer Without You by Jenny Han - Review

Shadowspell by Jenna Black - Review

Where She Went by Gayle Forman - Review

Badass Bookie xx

Favourite YA Debuts of 2011!

Until the new year when The 2012 Debutante Event will begin, I'm going to do my yearly round -up posts including favourite debuts, favourite sequels, favourite covers, favourite boys....you get the point! The books mentioned in my 'favourites' post will only be of the books I have read in 2011! So today I'm going to start with my favourite 2011 YA Debuts! :)

Badass Bookie's Favourite YA Debuts of 2011

1) Divergent by Veronica Roth - Review 

This one seems to be on everyone's best reads of 2011 list and it should be there, I didn't really have high expectations for the book actually, I thought the cover wasn't so appealing but then I read the book and wow, it was mind-blowing, life-changing, body-shockingly amazing! Roth is a talented writer and Divergent is one of the best dystopias I have ever read! READ IT!

2) The Girl in the Steel Corset by Kady Cross - Review

Another unexpected favourite! I wasn't a big fan of steampunk before I read this debut but after reading it, I've definitely been keeping an eye out for more novels like this one! Great characters and great plot, it's set i the a 1800's which was a beautiful time and I honestly thought Cross did an excellent story-telling job. I can't wait to read the sequel!

3) Starcrossed by Josephine Angelini - Review

I have to give it to Starcrossed for a captivating romance line. Greek Mythology is a newish trend in YA fiction and Angelini has written this beautiful novel about forbidden love and fate and family honour. A very addictive kind of novel, I'm a total romance junkie and this was my dose. I couldn't put it down and I loved everything about it! Worth the money and time!

4) Die for Me by Amy Plum - Review

I sang very highly of this novel when I first read it and I still do! Again, really great romance and a really great setting. Paris, handsome mysterious young men and fighting evil? What's not to love about Die for Me? I was so GA GA over this novel because it was beautiful, Plum has written spectacular debut and it's very original. One of 2011's best!

5) Entangled by Cat Clarke - Review

Unlike the other favourite this one was more of a hidden gem and colour me shocked because I didn't think I would enjoy it. I usually find myself at odds when it comes to depressing sob stories but this one was different. A real tear-jerker and I really felt that I could connect with the main character, Grace. I don't think  I've ever gotten so angry over a book with Entangled but what Grace went through really broke my heart and I strongly recommend everyone to read this novel. 

Runner-Ups : 

I'm only going to give ranking to my top five but I have read so many fantastic debuts this year that I had to mention the ones that didn't rank in my top five. ALL these books also got a 5/5  ( and even 6/5! ) rating from your truly, every single one of them is worth your money and time so please support and read! 

Most Original and Culturally Different - In the Arms of Stone Angel by Jordan Dane ( Review )

Most Action- Packed and Totally Thrilling - Hunting Lila by Sarah Alderson ( Review )

Most Road-Tripy and Good Vibe Feeling - Saving June by Hannah Harrington ( Review )

Most Cute, Frothy, Funny and Romantic - Epic Fail by Claire LaZebnik ( Review )

Most Just Read It and Awesome - Shatter Me by Tahereh Mafi ( Review )

Badass Bookie xx

Touch of Power

Review time! Touch of Power is the newest novel by best-selling author, Maria V. Snyder. The novel is available for purchase today! Today is the international release date (US, UK and AUS) for Touch of Power so read my review and then go get a copy ;) Thanks so much to Harlequin Teen Australia for sending me an ARC.

(Goodreads) Laying hands upon the injured and dying, Avry of Kazan assumes their wounds and diseases into herself. But rather than being honored for her skills, she is hunted. Healers like Avry are accused of spreading the plague that has decimated the Territories, leaving the survivors in a state of chaos.



Stressed and tired from hiding, Avry is abducted by a band of rogues who, shockingly, value her gift above the golden bounty offered for her capture. Their leader, an enigmatic captor-protector with powers of his own, is unequivocal in his demands: Avry must heal a plague-stricken prince—leader of a campaign against her people. As they traverse the daunting Nine Mountains, beset by mercenaries and magical dangers, Avry must decide who is worth healing and what is worth dying for. Because the price of peace may well be her life....
 
The Short Story? – Touch of Power is my favourite teen fantasy of 2011 – HANDS DOWN. Snyder has written an unforgettable and captivating start to a series that will definitely gain all the attention it deserves. Beautifully written, Touch of Power is a fantasy that will linger long after the last page. Wonderfully developed characters, a touching romance and a plot filled with adventure, readers are bound to love it!

The Long Story? – Touch of Power is the first of Snyder’s novels that I have read but after finishing it I felt obliged to start her Study series so I went out and got myself a copy of Poison Study ( which is great but in my opinion Touch of Power is better). Touch of Power had such a huge influence on me, I haven’t read as many teen fantasies lately with all the paranormal romance on the market but I really think that this novel will rekindle the love for many readers. This is fantasy written at its best, the right balance of romance, magic and adventure. One of my favourite aspects of the novel was the overshadowed romance, I’ve long forgotten that a novel can be great without the lure of romance. The magic, danger and adventure were the highlight of the novel and the romance was just a minority and THAT was brilliant! For lovers of The Study series and fantasy, here comes an extraordinary novel!

I was under the mistaken impression that unless a YA novel have teenage characters, it would not be enjoyable but how wrong am I! It seems that Snyder has a specialty of writing teen novels with adult characters and it’s brilliant and original! Avry (age 20) is our protagonist and I love this girl! I think Avry is a perfect example of a fantasy heroine. Strong, brave, loyal, a little stubborn and willing to die for the greater good. Her personality was well developed (same with all the other characters) and she has depth, Snyder has created a background that shapes who Avry is. Kerrick (age 25/26?) is another one of Snyder ‘perfect’ characters. Sometimes I think that the “physical beauty” of our love interests kind of overshadows how well developed a character really is. I really thought Snyder understood the importance of “inner beauty” so very well done! I felt that I grew to know many of the secondary characters just as well as the main characters and that was another highlight for me – wonderful characterization.

The novel hits stores today and I strongly encourage all of you to grab a copy! Touch of Power is an engrossing novel that will not disappoint! It’s a GURANTEED good read! This novel has had a huge influence on me. I laughed, I cried and in between I sat on the edge of my seat unable to put the book down. A heart-pounding adventure, a heroine like no other heroine, romance worthy of rejoice and a teen fantasy that’s on its way to the bestseller list! An unforgettable start to a series that I will eagerly anticipate. Touch of Power would make an excellent addition to your shelves ;) This one is a keeper!

Rating – 6/5


Badass Bookie xx

I'm Back! So lets get cracking....

And...I'm back! Did you guys miss me? I know I missed you guys! I can't apologise enough for post-poning the 2012 Debutante Event. Gah! I feel so horrible because I had everything planned out and then it all fell apart! I formally apologise to all my lovely debutantes and my lovely readers! The event WILL be going ahead starting from the 1st of January sorry about all this delay! 

My explanation? - After a series of very unfortunate events I ended up in China for a family holiday where internet restrictions are very very well, restrictive! They blocked Blogger and Twitter and Goodreads and Facebook so pretty much cutting me off from the blogosphere :( Luckily my family agreed that six weeks was way too long so we shortened our holiday to three weeks! So I just got off the plane two weeks ago and I'm ready to get down cracking! 

From today onwards, Badass Bookie will go back to normal so please, please, please visit my blog and me ( on twitter!) as much as you can because I have so much to catch up on :)

Note from -

Badass Bookie xx

Forbidden (Spoiler-free!)

Review Time! Trying to get all these reviews that are piling up out of the way, six more days til I'm home! This might be weird but I actually want this holiday to be over!!! Totally ruined so many things for me :/ ( and you!) Anyway Forbidden by Jana Oliver is the second book in the Demon Trappers series, also known as Soul Thief in the US. Jana is actually a 2011 Debut Author!

(Goodreads) Riley's beginning to think being a demon trapper isn't all it's cracked up to be. Her dad's been stolen by a necromancer, her boyfriend's gone all weird and she's getting warm and fuzzy feelings for someone who's seriously bad news. It's tempting to give it all up and try to be normal, but that's not an option. Because the demons have plans for Riley. 


And they're not the only ones...






The Short Story? - My love for Riley Blackthorne and her many suitors as been rekindled! I forgot how much I enjoyed reading about Riley and her demon trapping adventures! Riley is one badass heroine with some serious attitude and kickass moves. Fantastic developments to an action-packed plot filled with lies, betrayals and hidden agendas! Oliver has written fantastic sequel to a spectacular debut!


The Long Story? - Like all good urban fantasies, the plot of this series just keeps getting better and better. Unexpected developments, hidden agendas and betrayals and truths that left me astounded and  unsure of what to expect. Unpredictable and completely addictive, Oliver has written a sequel that's highly entertaining! Not only was there major developments in the plot but in the romances too! We encountered a change of heart, an expected ( sorta) romance and some major heartbreak. Anyone looking for an action-packed novel and loaded with twists and turns and lots of romantic tension, this is one hell ( pun intended) of a good read.


Since this is the second novel in the series we were introduced the most of the characters during the first novel however this novel was all about development - for the better and the worse. I grow to adore Riley more and more as we progress, she reminds me of Rose Hathaway from Vampire Academy who is my favorite heroine. Both characters have courage and fierce loyalty, they're passionate and pretty badass! Riley definitely matured a lot since her fathers death and while she makes plenty of mistakes at least she learns from them. With each encounter Riley grows wiser and I like that in a heroine! Simon is a cow but I never like him. Ori left me, I'm a little disappointed ( read very) in his actions but the show must go on right? I really hope to see Riley and Beck together in the next novel!


This series is seriously made of awesome and after a remarkable debut I didn't think Oliver could top it but she did! Forbidden was an excellent late night reading companion that I highly recommend everyone to check out. With a unique prose and an excellent sense of humor, Oliver has written an urban fantasy that will leave plenty of YA readers craving for more! I look forward to reading more of Riley's adventures!


Rating - 5/5


Badass Bookie xx

Epic Fail

Review Time! Hey guys great news, instead of six weeks, I'm only going away for three! Therefore in a week and a half, I'll be back in Australia where Blogger is NOT blocked :) Epic Fail by Claire LaZebnik is a 2011 YA Debut, it's a retelling of Pride and Prejudice and a fantastic YA contemporary!

(Goodreads) Will Elise’s love life be an epic win or an epic fail?

At Coral Tree Prep in Los Angeles, who your parents are can make or break you. Case in point:

As the son of Hollywood royalty, Derek Edwards is pretty much prince of the school—not that he deigns to acknowledge many of his loyal subjects.

As the daughter of the new principal, Elise Benton isn’t exactly on everyone’s must-sit-next-to-at-lunch list.

When Elise’s beautiful sister catches the eye of the prince’s best friend, Elise gets to spend a lot of time with Derek, making her the envy of every girl on campus. Except she refuses to fall for any of his rare smiles and instead warms up to his enemy, the surprisingly charming social outcast Webster Grant. But in this hilarious tale of fitting in and flirting, not all snubs are undeserved, not all celebrity brats are bratty, and pride and prejudice can get in the way of true love for only so long.

The Short Story? - From the moment I read the title, I knew this was going to be an awesome novel and I'm so glad that it didn't disappoint me! Funny ( read tears if laughter - legit), cute and overly romantic. Epic Fail is perfect for anyone looking for a great romance and a big laugh. Beautiful characterization and prose, I salute LaZebnik for an excellent debut!


The Long Story? - Honestly the novel should have be called Epicly Awesome or something because the novel  is certainly not an epic fail :) The jest of the novel is the same as every other retelling of Pride and Prejudice but the smaller details are what makes it awesome. Firstly, I love reading about preppy, rich people especially girls who have it all. Secondly, I love novels set in " preppy" schools and thirdly, I love the cliched " IT" boy! Basically Epic Fail was my type of a good read and the best part is that it's a Pride and Prejudice retelling, double awesome! Comfortable to read, easy to get into and beautiful prose, LaZebnik has not only come up with a genius plot but written it superbly as well! For fans of Pride and Prejudice and YA Rom-Com!


Eliza the protagonist is extremely funny and I love my characters with a sense of humor. It just gives the whole novel a happy feel! Eliza isn witty, sarcastic, funny and she's really a great character. She's very loyal t her sister and I can SO relate to her. Derek is more of the strong sand silent type but I think without him, the novel wouldn't have been so enjoyable. It was the difference in his and Eliza's personality that really made the novel memorable!  The supporting characters were ver well developed as well, overall, it was just a fantastic cast. Very nice characters :)


I guess I'll just leave you with this message - READ IT! I can't think of anyone who wouldn't like this novel! If you love Rom-Com, if you love P&P and if you love a novel that will have you rolling in laughter, this is your next read! Perfect for a night in or a day at the beach, LaZebnik has written a very fine debut that will definitely be remembered!


Rating - 5/5


Badass Bookie xx

Dark Angel

Review Time! Hi guys! If you have heard earlier I have no access to Blogger where I am right now because the government has blocked it along with Twitter and Goodreads therefore I'm completely cut off aside from email contact. However I've going to be sending reviews and other posts through email for Kylie to post for me ( she's like super girl!). Dark Angel by Eden Maguire is a fairly recent release I just finished reading,  thanks to Hachette for the review copy! 

(Goodreads) Tania's heart belongs to Orlando. Nothing can rip them apart. Until the seduction begins in a flurry of glamour and magic, music and parties all orchestrated by the mysterious and mesmerising Zoran, an iconic rock star who has retired to a remote ranch in the nearby mountains. And there Tania meets the dark side. Can she resist temptation?









The Short Story - A paranormal romance that's both unique and unputdownable! Dark and seductive, Dark Angel is a refreshingly YA that will keep you on the edge of your seats. Beautifully written, fantastic characters and a romance like no other! Maguire has written a stunner of a novel that's bound to captivate a reader and never let go!


The Long Story - Fun Fact: Dark Angel has the same cover image as The Vespertine and The Goddess Test (AUS ). I'm don't think this one has been released in the US yet but it definitely will because it is SUCH A GREAST NOVEL. I honestly didn't think I would like it so much. Dark Angel has a fantastic plot, it's unique and hauntingly beautiful. The novel itself has a very dark edge. Fantastic writing, it's easy to get into and I powered through the novel. What I like best about this novel was that it was very unpredictable especially when it came to romance. I was under the impression that it was going to be a cliched love triangle and boy, was I wrong. For fan of the unpredictable and the paranormal, this one is not to be missed!


I really liked the characterization as well. Tania was  a great protagonist, very well developed with a 3D personality. She has flaws and fears and dreams like the rest of us which I liked. Honestly nothing in this novel can be called a cliche and that's what stood out to me, this originality. At the start I viewed Tania has kind of weak and clingy but as the novel progresses it can be seen that my initial thoughts were wrong! She's level headed, she's strong and she's loyal. Good qualities to have in a protagonist! Orlando didn't play that big of a role in this novel but he's the love interest so he seemed worth mentioning plus I really like him :) I liked this guy, he clearly loves Tania and that's what counts. He's not perfect despite what Tania  says but he's definitely a sweetie :)The romance in this novel is really cute and I think readers will appreciate the romance line because I know I did!


Overall, a fantastic YA paranormal romance that is not to be missed. Refreshingly different to anything I've read and thoroughly enjoyable. Dark Angel is seductively dark and deliciously sinister. I can't wait to read the sequel. A unique plot, a romance like no other and a loyal protagonist who kicks ass! Dark Angel is the perfect supernatural read for the summer!


Rating 5/5

Badass Bookie xx

An Important Message

Hey Guys,

Kylie here, Lisa asked me to quickly leave a message for you all. Her family decided to take a holiday for six weeks in China and the Chinese government has actually put a block on the blogger website. This is much to Lisa's dismay as she had insisted her family choose to holidays in Bali or even take a beautiful and relaxing cruise.

Due to this situation, Lisa has postponed the 2012 Debutante Event. On January 1st the very first post will go live and from then on things will be back to normal. Until then, things will be a little quite here at the Badass Bookie.

I am sure you all understand that this is something that couldn't be helped. Lisa will be back in no time at all, with many fabulous stories of her travels as well as the awesome event that is the 2012 Debutante Event.

If you have any questions or concerns, Lisa can be contacted on her email ( callmeghostgirl @ yahoo . com . au ). Unfortunately the Chinese Government have also blocked Twitter. She assures me she plans to shop A LOT to make up for her lack of Internet happiness hehe.

Thanks for your understanding guys,
Have a great holiday period and stay safe.

- Kylie (on behalf of Lisa the Badass Bookie)

Equinox by Lara Morgan Giveaway (Int'l)

Hey Guys! As part of the Lara Morgan Blog Tour, Walker Books Australia has kindly sent me a second copy of the book to giveaway! Fantastic series, Aussie YA Dystopian! Note: This is the second book in the series so you would have to somehow obtain the first book or just read this one ( it doesn't really matter!)

- International - Ends 25/12 - MUST comment on Blog Tour Post ( HERE ) - Extra Entries * Comment on Genesis Review +1 ( Here ) * Comment on Equinox Review +1 ( HERE ) * Follow Badass Bookie +2 * Tweet Giveaway +2

Fill out THIS Form.

Badass Bookie xx

Bloodlines

Review Time! Richelle Mead is the international bestselling author of The Vampire Academy series which is one of my all time favorites. Richelle recently published Bloodlines which is the first book in her spin off. Many of you have read it and I’m probably one of the last to pick it up but read my thoughts! Thanks to Penguin for the review copy!

(Goodreads) When alchemist Sydney is ordered into hiding to protect the life of Moroi princess Jill Dragomir, the last place she expects to be sent is a human private school in Palm Springs, California. But at their new school, the drama is only just beginning.

Populated with new faces as well as familiar ones, Bloodlines explores all the friendship, romance, battles and betrayals that made the #1 New York Times bestselling Vampire Academy series so addictive - this time in a part-vampire, part-human setting where the stakes are even higher and everyone's out for blood.
 
The Short Story? – Mead never fails to impress! Bloodlines are an excellent start to a new series that’s bound to sate your craving for fantastic YA fiction! Set in the same world as Vampire Academy, Bloodlines is perfect for VA fans and readers looking for an unputdownable page-turner! An excellent plot that’s filled with mystery, drama and action. This one is a killer of a read!

The Long Story? – Honestly, I was a little scared to read this. I read that Adrian was the love interest in this novel and I COMPLETELY freaked. I didn’t really like Last Sacrifice because Mead gave Adrian a horrible, horrible ending. He didn’t get the happy ending he deserved but I would have rather have him sad and broken-hearted than thrust upon the first single girl available. When I first heard about Bloodlines, I was like ‘Oh no, it’s going to be like Jacob and infant!’ luckily for me it wasn’t. The romance in Bloodlines isn’t so much of a priority, there is a bigger build up and while the attraction is there – it’s not Insta-Love. I loved this plot, very complex and detailed. Events overlap each other and every little thing has a secret meaning. Packed with mystery and action, definitely worth your money! Not to mention the cliff hanger ending!

As far as characterization go, I really like the characters. I worked hard not to like Sydney because in a way I felt like she was replacing Rose and I ADORE Rose but I couldn’t hate her! Despite her borderline OCD nature, she’s so compassionate and kind-hearted! Readers are given more insight into an Alchemist’s life and we get to understand why they’re so important. In Bloodlines, we also get to know Jill and Eddie a little better, they definitely play a bigger part in this novel. Last but not least, Adrian. It’s obvious that he’s still hung up over Rose and his got all this heartbreak and I just want to smack Rose because Adrian doesn’t deserve this heartbreak! He’s as charming as ever and I just love the guy, he deserves a shot at being happy!

In a nutshell, read it, read it, read it! I ‘m so glad that I’ve overcome my initial fear of the novel because this was absolutely beautiful! Exciting, dangerous and action-packed, this is an excellent start to a new series that will captivate many YA readers. Fantastic character development, an excellent plot and an attraction that cannot be denied. Bloodlines is the paranormal romance to read this summer!

Rating – 5/5


Badass Bookie xx

Equinox by Lara Morgan Blog Tour

Hello Lovlies! Today I'm hosting the last stop on Lara Morgan's Equinox Blog Tour. Equinox is the second  book in the Rosie Black Chronicles! I recently read and reviewed both Genesis and Equinox on the blog! Fantastic aussie dsytopian that will leave you craving more!

Interview with Lara Morgan

Quickies -

Skittles or M&Ms?  M&Ms of course, particularly the peanut ones.

Black or white? black because it’s slimming and I always spill sauce on white, seriously it’s embarrassing.


Coffee or Tea? Tea, tea tea tea.. I think I made my point.

Print copies or e-books? Print, it’s the smell isn’t it? ( Yes! The Smell of Books = Heaven *grabs a book and inhales deeply*

Dog-ear or Bookmark? Bookmark for sure, though I don’t judge those who dog-ear, just don’t bend it back!

Cats or Dogs? Dogs. I recently lost mine and miss him terribly. ( Awww, feel better <3)

Reading or Writing? Reading, because although I love to write it’s still really hard work and reading is all about the pleasure plus I’m inherently lazy and a champion procrastinator. I can convince myself that reading the gossip pages of the newspaper is ‘research’. Really it is!


Vampires or werewolves? Ooh hard one…. Vampires, no, werewolves, no…. can I have both?

Have you watched Vampire Diaries? Yes. *looks around to check for husband* I love that show.


Favourite Harry Potter Novel? I can never remember the names of them all. I think the fifth one, what’s it called? ( Order of the Pheonix - My favourite too!)

Book you most want to see turned into a Movie? Mine!! *cough* I mean, I’m really looking forward to Cassandra Clare’s City of Bones film coming out.
Favourite day of the week? Sunday. I make a pot of tea and spread the weekend papers out all over the table and drool over exotic travel destinations. It’s also generally the one day of the week I never work. Usually.

Your perfect breakfast consists of – irish breakfast tea (obviously), fresh mango with lime juice, thick fluffy pancakes with maple syrup and bacon. Bacon goes really well with the syrup, trust me.

Five things that make a book "good" – characters with depth who make mistakes, pace, emotional honesty, action that reveals character as well as plot, male and female leads people can believe in, brevity

and...

Team Edward or Team Jacob? Jacob ( YAY!!!! Hoot Hoot!)


Getting to the Serious Stuff...

1) Describe The Rosie Black Chronicles in three words? Dystopian action romance.

2) How did you come up with the storyline for The Rosie Black Chronicles? As you can see from the world Rosie lives in, I’m greatly interested in how our future is going to be affected by climate change and our current social and political status so much of the story line was me thinking about how the place we live and the types of people we become can dictate what we do.

I believe the power of large corporations is on the increase and our personal freedom is decreasing so I wanted to explore what would happen to someone living in a world like that who was essentially powerless, how would they cope , what would they do if they became caught up in all that? It’s very much David against Goliath and the elements of what Rosie does to fight against this massive power came from there.  

3) Why did you choose to write YA Dystopian? Mostly it’s because I love dystopian fiction. I’m also really terribly pessimistic about the human race and our ability to learn from our mistakes. We keep making the same ones over and over, and we’re not doing enough about climate change so I think a future which is tighter controlled and restrictive especially in terms of water is all too possible.  I think it’s a result of being a teenager in the 80s with the Cold War and the threat of nuclear obliteration so there was a lot of worry for how our future might turn out, and none of it was too rosy. I was also haunted by George Orwell’s book, 1984, and obsessed with The Terminator films, so I’ve always harboured this fascination for a dark future coupled with an interest in space ships and other universes which was greatly inspired by Star Wars. The result of all that was The Rosie Black Chronicles.

4) Character you feel you can relate best to? Why? It has to be Rosie, because despite our age difference, she is my main girl and of course many elements of her come from my teenage self, though she is much braver than I ever was.  

5) Is there a story behind the names of characters? Names are funny things, when I choose characters names it’s all about the feelings. Rosie Black was not a name I struggled to define, she popped up in my head, the same thing with Pip. I have images of the characters in my head and a book of names and if I’m having trouble I’ll flick through the book until one stands out for me. The only character whose name has a story, as such, is Essie who actually came from a short story I wrote years ago (never published) about this space ship pilot named Esmeralda Black – basically she’s the same person.

6) Ar you planning to write any other books outside the series? Yes, but I can’t reveal anything yet as nothing is concrete, all I can say is it will be different.

7) Who would play the characters in a movie adaption? Such a hard question because the minute you put an actor’s name to a character it can be hard not to visualise them when you’re reading the book. That said though I think Caitlin Stasey, who played Ellie in Tomorrow When The War Began, could make a good Rosie. I’m not sure about Pip, that is a really hard one! I’d be interested to see who readers think would be good.

Highlight of The Equinox Tour - Literacy Clutter - Marketing Books
                                                      - Lara Morgan's Blog - Blog Tour Summary

The Rosie Black Chronicles - HERE

I'll be hosting a giveaway for a copy of Equinox tomorrow! So come back tomorrow to enter to win your very own copy!


Badass Bookie xx

The Scorpio Races

Review Time! I’m a on plane this Sunday for a six week holiday so I’m trying to take down as many books and reviews before that as possible. Not to mention the fact that I have the 2011 Debutante Event in December! The Scorpio Races is the start of Maggie Stiefvater’s new series! Thank to Scholastic for the review copy!

(Goodreads) It happens at the start of every November: the Scorpio Races. Riders attempt to keep hold of their water horses long enough to make it to the finish line. Some riders live. Others die. 

At age nineteen, Sean Kendrick is the returning champion. He is a young man of few words, and if he has any fears, he keeps them buried deep, where no one else can see them. 

Puck Connolly is different. She never meant to ride in the Scorpio Races. But fate hasn’t given her much of a chance. So she enters the competition — the first girl ever to do so. She is in no way prepared for what is going to happen.



The Short Story? – The bestselling author of The Wolves of Mercy Falls is back with another winner. Absolutely brilliant character development, a unique plot and beautiful, just beautiful prose! The Scorpio Races is both exciting and dangerous seductive. Flirting with death, killer horses and a fierce heroine, The Scorpio Races are not to be missed!


The Long Story? – Stiefvater isn’t one of my favourite authors but she’s one of the authors I truly admire. She has the most beautiful prose, her writing just flows! Lyrical and enticing, reading her books are a little piece of heaven! I admit that The Scorpio Races was a little hard to get into at the start. I like my books fast-moving with high speed car chases and good vs. evil and this novel really was a change of pace for me. The start of the novel was really heavily based on setting the scene and developing the characters therefore the actual plot was insignificant. However the story really progresses as we read and it’s very powerful and enjoyable! A good investment for a YA novel!


I’ve already mentioned how fantastic the character development is but I don’t think I’ve emphasized the point enough. It’s truly some pretty impressive development. It’s a slow but thorough development. By the end of the novel, I feel a strong connection to both Puck and Sean. Puke (aka Kate) is my sort of heroine. She’s fierce, stubborn, strong and courageous. She’s likeable and very independent. Sean is one of those boys who don’t need words to communicate. I really him because he didn’t come across as an overly handsome boy but one with decency and consideration. The romance between the two is also very slow, it wasn’t until the very end when one of them made a move but the wait was worth it. Some of the best characterization I’ve read!


If you’re a fan of Stiefvater or just a fan of fantastic writing, The Scorpio Races is the way to go. A captivating plot with unique qualities and a great deal of depth. Some of the most amazing character development I have ever read. Stiefvater efficiently creates her characters, giving them realistic background and personalities. Dangerously seductive and deliciously deadly, The Scorpio Races is the novel to read before the end of this year!


Rating – 4.5/5


Badass Bookie xx

Equinox ( Spoiler - Free!)

Review Time! I recently reviewed Genesis the first book in the Aussie Dystopian series - The Rosie Black Chronicles by Lara Morgan. today I'm reviewing the brilliant sequel, Equinox! I'm also part of the blog tour so look out for my stop next week! Thanks to Walker Books for the review copy!


(Goodreads) It’s Rosie’s seventeenth year and she’s starting her first year at Orbitcorp Academy, but it’s not going to be all parties and pilot training. Helios hasn’t forgotten her – and she certainly hasn’t forgotten them. Bent on revenge Rosie is still working in secret to try to take them down. 

But a terrible miscalculation will send Rosie once more on the run, this time into the unknown lands of the north, Gondwana Nation, where word has it Helios is building something big. 

There will be a new friend and a new boy – the handsome and wealthy Dalton Curtis – who will surprise Rosie with a secret she can’t begin to guess. And Pip will return, but how does he feel about Rosie, and where has he been? 

Pursued again and on the run, Rosie might not have time to find out all the answers, but what she will learn is that a capacity for evil can be equalled by a capacity for good - and she will be forced to make a choice that will change her future forever.

The Short Story? - Another heart pounding adventure! This is a brilliant sequel filled with action, saving the world and a great romance! Morgan has written a YA for everyone to enjoy! Dystopian like nothing you have ever read before! Beautifully written, fantastic character development and an adventure that just keeps getting better! 

The Long Story? - I enjoyed this novel so much more than the first novel, Genesis. Two main reasons - a) The novel is shorter b) the romance definitely picked up! I have a feeling this is going to be one of those series that is just going to get better and better. Following the dystopian trend, social inequality and saving the world are huge elements of the novel. Fast-paced, great pace and filled with cat and mouse chases, if you like your novels jam-packed with no boring moments, this is the novel for you! I loved, loved, LOVED this novel! Beautifully written, a very well organised plot and very good setting, Morgan has written a structured YA novel that will definitely by a winner!

I am most thankful that the romance picked up! As a romance junkie I NEED my daily fix! A great love story, I'm smelling out a love triangle but I could be wrong. In any case, it would definitely make the novel even better! I've chosen my team and I'm sticking to THE man! That said, without the characters, the romance wouldn't be haven't been so good! Quite a lot of character development in this novel, I'm growing to really understand and like Rosie. She's not perfect and she makes silly mistakes but she's a teen and she's saving the world - cut her some slack! Pip is definitely one stunner of a badass! I'm still not really sure what he looks like but I love his sense of humour and his wit! Dalton, the new guy on the block as stolen my heart. He's nice, he's smexy and I'm totally Team Dalton! Great characterisation!

Authentically Australian and authentically YA, Morgan has written a destined bestseller! Follow Rosie on her adventures! Saving the world, evil geniuses, deliciously dystopian and an epic love story! Beautifully written, I can't wait to read the next book in the series after that KILLER ending! Do yourself a favour and pick up this fantastic YA novel!

Rating - 5/5

Badass Bookie xx

Tiger's Voyage (Spoiler Free!)

Review time! I’m trying to slip back into my reading routine after the stuff up because of exams and it’s hard! I just can’t seem to find the time (or heart) to read! Luckily I have wonderful books to ease me back into reading! Tiger’s Voyage is the third book in Colleen Houck’s New York Times Bestselling series! Thanks to Hachette for the review copy!

(Goodreads) In the third installment of the Tiger series, Kelsey Hayes pushes through the pain of lost love and strengthens her friendship with Kishan. Despite his strong feelings for her, Kishan has agreed to be her ally in helping her reunite with the man she still loves. Together, they seek to help Ren regain his memory and begin the search for the third magical gift—an object of power that will help break the curse that causes them to live part of their lives as tigers.



They board a luxury yacht and seek Durga's aid once again, who supplies them with her golden weapons. With Nilima, Mr. Kadam, Ren, and Kishan at her side, she soon learns that the task ahead will be even more difficult than the others. Confronting a dark magician, multiple dragons, and terrifying denizens of the deep seems easy when compared to facing the daunting task of stitching up her heart. Just when she thinks she's ready to set her feet on a new path, she is yanked back with a jolt to the one she's determined to leave behind.


The jarring tug-of-war that ensues for Kelsey's heart leaves her anxious and confused. Combined with the stress of almost being killed every other day, it would appear that saving the tigers is almost more than she can handle. Still, she presses on, knowing that a choice is looming on the horizon. One she cannot put off making for long.
 
The Short Story? – The saying ‘don’t judge a book by its cover’ has never rang truer than with this series! I’m not a big fan of the covers but I love the books! Houck does not disappoint with the third installment in this remarkable series. Another epic fantasy with a strong and addictive romance. Beautifully written, a complicated and thorough plot. This series is truly a hidden gem waiting to be read! Bravo!

The Long Story? – Did you know Tiger’s Curse sat on my shelf for ages before I picked it up and thought “this is fantastic – MUST READ MORE” That initial fascination and addiction to this fantastic series has not faded, if anything this books have gotten stronger and stronger as we progress! I absolutely loved Tiger’s Voyage. Again, I have to praise Houck on her excellent research skills. To set a novel in a foreign country and base it around mythology and culture is a hard feat and Houck has done a brilliant job. Very detailed plot, filled with information and interesting facts about India. Readers not only follow the characters on an epic adventure but they are learning something new with each turn of the page! This is as good as it gets with epic fantasy. If you are hesitating about this series, DON’T! The Tiger Saga is one of my favourite discoveries of 2011 and Tiger’s Voyage was spectacular. A fantastic page-turner.

It goes without saying that for me, a novel without romance is not a novel at. I think it’s safe to say that The Tiger Saga has perhaps one of the best romances in YA fiction. Filled with drama, tension, heartbreak and pain – it’s a brilliant romance. Experience love triangles like you never have before. Phenomenal romance! Without the characters, the romance wouldn’t have been so good. Kelsey is one of my favorite YA characters. She’s smart, stubborn, strong and filled with love and compassion. She’s very well developed and definitely likeable. I feel like I’ve grown closer to her as the series has progressed. I was very disappointed in Ren at the end of the second book, it wasn’t his fault but he caused so much heartbreak for Kelsey, it hurt ME to read it. He really redeemed himself in this novel but I’m completely torn between him and Kishan. Initially I was Team Kishan and then Team Ren and now I’m stuck in the middle. They both have their goods and bads, keen to see where the final installment leads. Overall great romance and great characters!

In a nutshell, no matter how you look at it, this series is a must read! If you have been keeping up with the Tigers, Tiger’s Voyage is fantastic! Houck has written a fantastic series, comfortable, exciting and adventurous. One of the greatest YA romances that I’ve ever read and an epic fantasy that will not disappoint. This series is a winner and it’s breathtakingly brilliant! I salute Houck for writing a stunner of a good read!

Rating – 5/5


Badass Bookie xx