The Poisonwood Bible by Barbara Kingsolver

epic.
tragic.
humbling.

As I load my automatic dishwasher, and perform other mundane tasks with the help of modern domestic technology, my thoughts often turn humbly to pioneers who lived full, happy, difficult lives without running water, indoor plumbing, electric stoves or forced air heating. What I now know I've been ignorant about, and what this book revealed, is the poverty and lack of modern conveniences that people TODAY live without. And that's just the backdrop to this epic novel of a religious southern American family who travel to a small village in Africa's Congo in the 1950s to live as missionaries. To call their fictional experience culture shock is an understatement. Told first person by each member of the family in turn except the cruel father, the book explores how one tragic and pivotal experience affects each family member for decades to come, while delving into the social consequences of real life political and societal events of the time. A deep story of love and loss leaves the reader with a better understanding that nothing is simple, and that at times, hope must be found within.

Extremely Loud and Incrediby Close by Jonathon Safran Foer

unassuming.
death.
love.

What originally drew me to this book, was the main character, a nine-year-old boy whose intelligence far exceeds his years. He reminded me of my eight-year-old daughter, who embodies the title of this book. She, too, is smart, and will talk your ear off in a heartbeat. She doesn't understand the need for personal space, and I'm pretty sure she is incapable of thinking internally.  She shares many similarities to Oskar in the story, and is equally endearing.

This book explores the hope and heartache of personal tragedies through generations of Oskar's family--flawed beings who love imperfectly. The book itself seems to be searching for the answer to an impossible question; a question that dwindles throughout a lengthy and painful search for meaning and purpose in lives that are lacking.

In the end, the lesson that was reinforced in my mind is the need to be loved and to share your love in the very moment that precedes the next. It is stated in the book that death is easy; living is hard. And that the biggest regrets are not things that you wish you had done differently, but rather the things you don't do at all. Or say.

I enjoyed this book immensely. It was full of emotion: sadness, hope, anger, exhilaration, and regret. One could sit and read this book for hours, but also put it down for a couple days before picking right back up where you left off. The plot exudes a certain leisurely depth to it, which reminds us how complicated life can be, and it's simple remedy.

*beware of the occasional (and rare) f-bomb.

4 out of 5 stars

The Particular Sadness of Lemon Cake by Aimee Bender

melancholic.
unexpected.
nostalgic.

I wasn't sure what to expect based on the title and description of this book. I had the book placed on hold a month or so before Nikki recommended it to me, and couldn't wait to read it once I heard she was dying to discuss it.

This book offers a delectable and unique plot that I couldn't have predicted at the start of the story. I enjoyed savoring Aimee's writing style and lulling off to dreamland before my eyelids closed each night.

This book wasn't uplifting or terribly depressing...melancholic, perhaps.  Yet I thoroughly enjoyed that realistic aspect, because I was able to immerse myself in the plot and soak up its raw-ness; the story wasn't showy, prideful or boastful.  It just WAS.

Hallelujah for authors like this, who write outside the box, crafting a story that defies time and logic. Nothing makes sense in this book, except for it's embodiment of the very essence of nostalgia, which I felt keenly.  Like the warmth and newness of a first love.  To sum it up, this book is about deciding what to do when life gives you lemons...and I loved it tart, fresh, and all!

5 out of 5 stars

P.S. Beware of the "F" bomb dropped a handful of times.

The Dark Divine by Bree Despain

good girl.
bad boy.
predictable.

There were things I liked about this book. I enjoyed the main character's personality and the fact that she was the goody-two-shoes daughter of a preacher. She had morals and humor which is a nice change of pace.

I wanted to like this book more than I did, and found myself disappointed after the drawn-out conclusion. I'm not even sure there was a purpose to the story. There wasn't a great lesson learned or HUGE accomplishment realized.  I give this book an solidly average

2.5 out of 5 because it was just OK.
Recommended for a 12 year old who likes werewolves. That's all I'm saying (;

The Particular Sadness of Lemon Cake by Aimee Bender

vivid.
introspective.
confusing.

I love it when adult fiction is narrated first person from a child's perspective. It always reminds me how confusing this crazy world is to little ones, who often have to grapple with experiences that far exceed their understanding or ability to navigate. So, subconsciously, they translate the things they don't understand into their own language, making a sort of sense of thing that make no sense. This book is told from the perspective of a child (and on in to her teen years) who develops the ability to taste others' emotions and moods through food. From the standpoint of someone who loves food, and appreciates vivid descriptive fiction, I really enjoyed the journey, up until the climax, which was deliberately written in a vague way and left me craving answers rather than understanding a revelation. I believe the author did this on purpose--the "child" narrator didn't fully understand it herself. And often in life we don't get the real, concrete answers that movies or stories tend to provide. But the "big revelation" in the book was diminished for me because it was so confusing, I couldn't really put my finger on what actually happened. What I think happened is a very cool story. If only I could know.
3 out of 5 stars

Numbers by Rachel Ward

couldn't
do
it.

In the first chapter of the book, we learn that the main character Jem can see the date any given person will die, that her mom was a junkie who she found dead from an aparent overdose, and that the author prefers 'colorful' language to illustrate Jem's rough-around-the-edges character.  It was then that I came to the conclusion that it didn't really matter how good the story might be if I were to just filter as I read, but unfortunately, that method simply is not conducive to my goal of relaxing while I read. C'est la vie!

Cleopatra's Daughter by Michelle Moran

royalty.
tragedy.
hope.

This was the first historical fiction book I've attempted reading. I'm pleased to announce that I LOVED IT! Being completely and intentionally ignorant of many historic events, I probably wouldn't have known if the author didn't have her facts correct, but I can tell Michelle Moran did meticulous research.  She is an Archaeologist, which fuels her passion for writing. I have much respect for her artistry mingled with historically accurate persons. If she changes certain aspects of history to improve the plot, she clearly lets the reader know that.

As you may know or can imagine, during the rule of Caesar in Rome, slaves led tragic lives and even the royal families were only a small degree away from losing everything at any given moment.  This story tugged on my heartstrings too many times, but it also lifted my spirits.

Definitely a recommend!

4.5 out of 5 stars

The Giver by Lois Lowry

control.
burden.
truth.

I was told this book was the first in a series. With only 280 pages, it was an extremely quick read. Good thing too, because I couldn't put it down until I finished it in one evening.  I was all too eager to start the next book, but when I started reading it I discovered the "second book" doesn't seem like the same story at all.

With this realization, I reflect on how The Giver ended. I suppose it could have been a real ending, but so much was left unresolved. I'm baffled. If anyone knows what is the deal with this I'd love to hear your thoughts.

All that being said, I was surprised by how invested in the story I became.  I would have enjoyed more depth from the Giver himself as the story progressed. It seemed there was a jump in the plot about 3/4 way through the book which is where I feel it was lacking.  Again, just too many loose ends. I have lots of questions that might never be answered...and the control freak in me hates that!

4 out of 5 stars

The Awakening by Kelley Armstrong

young.
charming.
mystery.

I never quite know where this story is going. I was pleasantly surprised with the evolution of many characters in this book, and one relationship in particular. While I enjoyed this book more than the first, I have to admit I've lost interest in the series, even if only temporarily until I run out of on-hand recommends to keep me busy.  Now, life might go on just fine without knowing how the plot resolves. At times the series has showed such promise, but I keep coming back to the problem that the content is not captivating me. It seems like the same predictable and creepy things keep happening, and while there is little progress, so much stays the same, and so much stays unclear. I would recommend this series to a 15 year old girl though, and will certainly read the final book just to wrap it up with a pretty little bow. I must admit I'm still wanting to know what will happen, even though the plot has been painfully slow to progress.

3 out of 5 stars

Pretties by Scott Westerfield

mind.
futuristic.
savage.

I really enjoyed the first three-quarters of this book, but that is when it went downhill for me. I can see a potential for the third book in the series to be really great, or a huge failure. I'm a little aprehensive to find out because I want the time spent reading it to be worth a great ending, you know?  Let's just say the jury's out on if I would recommend adding this series to your collection.  So far there's been one good book amidst the two I've read, as 3/4 of the first book was lacking and last 1/4 of the second.  I'll let you know what I think. But if you think it sounds like something you might be into reading based on the back cover, then I'd say go for it. If you are on the fence about it, I'd suggest waiting for my critique so you don't feel like a fraction of your life has been wasted (;

4 out of 5 stars

Bleeding Violet by Dia Reeves

loss.
for.
words.

As I sit here pondering which three words will accurately critique this book, I am at a loss for words.  This isn't necessarily a bad thing. Bleeding Violet is quite unique, and at the same time reminiscent of every book you've ever read combined. (I know this sounds conflicting, but you'll get what I mean if you take a chance on this recommended read.)

I really enjoyed the storyline. It reminded me of one of Tim Burton's animated movies that are really geared toward adults.  The plot was creepy, intriguing, and kept my attention throughout.

Dislcaimer: If you are like myself, you might view the bad language used here/there and adolescent sexual content as outside of the realm of our clean fiction bubble. I wish this book were clean because I really enjoyed it otherwise. If you don't mind editing some parts as you read, then I'd say go for it!

4.5 out of 5 stars

Blood and Chocolate by Annette Curtis Klause

animalistic.
[at times too] sexy.
realistic.

This isn't just another werewolf book. I mean that is a large part of it, but it the way the idea was used was a more realistic portrayal of how life for a teen werewolf might truly be. Clearly a confusing time in any teens life, add to that the confusion of belonging to a pack and to society and trying to fit in and survive in both worlds simultaneously; no simple solution for that dilemma.

The thing that bothered me about this book was how sexually-minded the main character is. In a way it makes sense since she is a wild, beautiful she-werewolf, but it still felt inappropriate to me.

In the end, I was pleased with the outcome. It's a pretty quick read, so pick it up!

4 out of 5 stars

Mockingjay by Suzanne Collins

heart-wrenching.
honest.
masterful.

Wow. Initially, I felt like the book started off slowly. But around page 80 it picked up pace, and again around page 270.  It was at this point that I couldn't possibly set the book down until I absorbed every last word. I had been wondering where Suzanne Collins could possibly take this third book, given the plot of the first two, but I was pleasantly surprised. I laughed, I cried, I got goose bumps.

This series is everything I can possibly ask for from an author. Crafted in my mind is a painfully vivid and poignant reality--from the capitol and its extravagant personalities, to the districts and their bleak and uncertain existence. The characters are witty, memorable, and believable.  Interwoven in the story is a cornucopia of suspense & drama, romance & tragedy, materialism & raw humanity. Suzanne Collins manages to tie it all together with a neat little bow: the effects of war and violence on adolescence. This was her intention, but there's even more depth to the story than that. I could go on and on, but I don't want to ruin the book for anyone who hasn't read the series. That being said, "READ IT!" (Yes, as in right now.)

5 out of 5 stars

Don't forget to start with books one and two in the series:

















...Or why not go for all three (=

The Summoning by Kelley Armstrong

magic.
conspiracy.
juvenile.

I would've liked this book a LOT better if I had been fifteen years old when I read it.  I typically enjoy young adult fiction, just because its likely to be free of unnecessary  vulgarity. This method hasn't steered me wrong yet, but this book comes off as a little too juvenile for me.


It was a little creepy at times so not necessarily ideal for young youth, but it just seemed to me like a storyline that I've heard too many times in too many ways to enjoy the "surprise and suspense" of it all.

That being said, I am 89% sure that I will read the next book in the series because it seemed like the story was just finalled starting to unfold when the book abruptly ended. Of course I want to know what happens, but I won't be scurrying madly to ensure I'm reading book two tonight. I'll casually wait to get it into my hands and read it at some point in the not-too-distant future.

For me,

3.5 out of 5 stars

Next two books in the series:

Uglies by Scott Westerfield

superficial.
unique.
has potential.

For me, this book was a great attempt at a unique and intriguing storyline, but unfortunately it paled in comparison to the depth and magnitude of other recent books in the genre. I wanted more from this book overall. Thankfully, three-quarters of the way through the book, there was a shift and I became enthralled and can't wait to see how everything plays out in the second book in the series. I'm hoping I won't be disappointed by the next book because there is great potential here. I suggest put this

3.5 out of 5 stars

Other books in the series:
(Not sure where the series ends and marketing ploy begins here, but I'm going to eventually read all of these...)

The Help by Kathryn Stockett

inventive.
surprising.
laugh out loud.


This is Kathryn Stockett's first novel and I am impressed enough that I will definitely be keeping my ear out for her next book.  There hasn't been one announced as of yet, but she's got a certain writing style that I am really enjoying.  This book was a different than others I've read.  The subject of racism isn't a light-hearted topic.  Yet somehow Kathryn is able to walk the fine line between living in fear of unknown and likely repercussions, and planting the seed for change.

There isn't just one, but rather a handful of characters in this book that are remarkably endearing even with all their flaws and insecurities.  Wisdom and naivete, purposeful and senseless, young and seasoned, careful and careless, tragic and humorous...such qualities contrast and compliment each other throughout the plot that elegantly winds and intermingles ending just as it should. 

Thanks for the suggestion to read this book, Nikki!  I was not disappointed.

5 out of 5 stars

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[SPOILER ALERT!]

The Mortal Instruments: City of Glass by Cassandra Clare

predictable.
yet entertaining.
but anticlimactic.


I felt like the end was anticlimactic, but I still anticipated great things leading up to the conclusion, so I still think it was a good read.  If you've read the Twilight series, I'd say it's comparable to Breaking Dawn in that way.

All in all, I think it was worth the read, and it is rumored to be made into a movie in the future.  Pick it up!

4 out of 5 stars


Also noteworthy is the fact that the prequel is coming out August 31st of 2010.

The Education of Little Tree by Forrest Carter

poignant.

vivid.
lacking.

 

The first chapter of this book, highly recommended by a friend, hooked me, narrated by a half-Native American child whose mother dies and is sent to live with his almost aboriginal grandparents in the backwoods of 1930s America. The conflict between mountain-dwelling "pure" Native Americans and "civilized" city-dwellers is apparent within the first few pages, when the grandfather is publicly mocked by a bus driver, but after that, the promising plot dwindles. Yes, the descriptions of the land and country are vivid, and the innocence and docility of the narrator are sweet. But while a series of events that make up the coming of age of a child caught between two clashing civilizations is certainly a great basis, there is nary a plot to be enjoyed and struggled through. The tragedy is that with the writer's undeniable talent, this book could have been great. Instead, it left me wanting.

2 out of 5 stars

Family by Pa Chin

revolution.
tragic.
enlightening.

I read this book for my world lit class. It was really difficult for me to get into it, I think because of the names; they were hard for me to pronounce and I kept confusing them in my mind because they were similar to each other.

I was downtrodden by much of the deep sadness in this book. The only good thing, for me that came out of it was to gain a better understanding of the lives of people in China before modernization finally occurred. I'm not sure who had it worse--the wealthy women, or the servant women. And the men were just that--men--trying to make good choices according to culture and the knowledge they possessed but making a mess of everything in the process. In the end there was hope but only after wading through much tragedy.

That being said, I know this piece of work was warmly embraced by the new generations in China during Pa Chin's time and I commend him for breaking the mold and shedding light on this difficult topic. I think he did a great job poetically portraying both the good and bad. It certainly isn't because of his writing that I give this book only two stars, but because of the content.  It is definitely out of my comfort zone of good ole pop fiction (;

2 out of 5 stars

The Death of Ivan Ilyich by Leo Tolstoy

static.
dark.
enlightening.

I am currently reviewing fiction from my World Literature class I am currently taking, since I don't have a lot of extra time for recreational reading this quarter. The selected literature is in stark contrast to the pop fiction I normally indulge myself with, and it has been a breath of fresh air.

My first descriptive word is "static" which means a character who is unchanging. After reading the first few chapters, I was thinking it has to get better, right?! To my dismay it got worse--much worse. I can tell you because it is stated in the first chapter of the book that Ivan dies a man satisfied with his amends.

The book is pretty dark, but if you know Tolstoy, you know both his parents died when he was a child...he never even knew his mother or even saw pics of her. He had several of 13 children die, as well as a grandmother and two aunts that had a great effect on him.  Pondering his mortality was not something Tolstoy was a stranger to. Contrastly, the main character in the book, Ivan doesn't even take a single thought of death until it is staring him in the face.

I found this book ultimately enlightening and it has a depth to it, as does an exceptional work of art.

4 of 5 stars because it's depressing to an extent.

My Name is Asher Lev

coming of age.moving.
controversial.It seems only fitting that my first review on Fiction Convert be by my favorite author, even though the book is definitely not new. Chaim Potok, as I mentioned in my "conversion" story, became my obsession in middle school. Potok, a Jewish Rabbi, didn't waste time explaining every Yiddish term or Jewish custom, he simply wove them into the story. His audience reached much farther than his own religious circles. Instead, he is considered one of the great American authors of our time, rather than one of the great Jewish authors.


I now recognize that I was drawn to the Jewish author's stories of Hasidic Jews living in urban America because of my own orthodox Mormon (LDS) background. Here was an incredibly gifted author making no apologies for his faith. He seemed to have the gift of pride in his faith, while simultaneously admitting the shortcomings and almost sinister side of its members, if not the orthodoxy itself. Could it be possible for me, then, to write a story with LDS characters and backdrop, that would be considered not just a Mormon story, but a human story? And one that didn't betray the religion I hold so dear and continue to practice faithfully? The rhetorical question seemed always in the back of my mind, and I loved Potok for his boldness and his insight into the human experience.


My Name is Asher Lev was Potok's third novel (after The Chosen and its sequel, The Promise), but it was my introduction to Potok. Like The Chosen, Asher Lev is a coming of age story, following the title character from early childhood through early adulthood and exploring his artistic inclinations in a time when such pursuits were frowned upon by his fellow Hasidic Jews. Lev must choose between his relationship with those he loves and indulging his compulsion to create art, culminating in a climactic and controversial ending. The book's ending is somewhat of a cliffhanger; luckily it's followed by a sequel, The Gift of Asher Lev.


5 of 5 stars

The Mortal Instruments: City of Ashes, by Cassandra Clare

unexpected.
enchanted.
suspenseful.


This second book in the series was more action-filled than the last. More characters are added to the plot, if you can imagine. There were moments when I felt Clare was either spoon-feeding, or withholding info a bit, yet I continued to be intrigued due to unexpected turns of events and emerging romances. I definitely wanted to know how those were gonna work out...or not.

Magnus Bane has been a favorite of mine, and Simon has raised the bar with his maturing throughout the series. There isn't much of a dull moment in this book. I still don't love Clare's writing style but I can certainly appreciate the intricacy that has gone into writing this book...almost makes me want to read the series again so I can remember all the hints and foreshadowing that occurred in previous books.
Keep reading and you won't be disappointed!

4 of 5 stars

The Mortal Instruments: City of Bones, by Cassandra Clare

characters.
youthful.
other-worldly.

My initial problem with this book is that the narration is in third person, which unfortunately tended to take me out of the story at times. Another writing technique I disliked,was the way the author would start a dialogue, interrupt it by explaining what the character(s) were doing, then continue with the end of the quote. I found this to be extremely distracting throughout the first half of the book. But I eventually got used to Clare's writing style until it wasn't foreign to me anymore and I can honestly say that I can appreciate the reason that she wrote it that way, in the end.

Once I put my pettiness aside, the story and several of the characters started to grow on me. By the end of the first book, I was excited to start the second. And after that one, I couldn't wait to start the third and it got better from there.

This is definitely one of those books that gets progressively better as you go along. The main characters are in their mid teens; the age that is awkward and confusing for us all. Add to the chaos: demons, vampires, werewolves, angels in the city that never sleeps, and things start to get interesting.

My advice would be, if you liked The Twilight Saga, give this series a chance...it pays off in the end.

3.5 of 5 stars
(keep in mind that the ratings go up with each of the following books  in the series :D)

Catching Fire by Suzanne Collins

intelligent.
captivating.
passionate.

Once again, I had no idea this story could be pulled off, while still maintaining intrigue and mystery, but Suzanne has done it again! What a cliff hanger. Ugh! I'm pretty much crazy about Suzanne Collins' writing...she's onto something here and I hope she keeps rolling with it because I can't get enough.

5 of 5 stars

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[SPOILER ALERT!]

Nikki's Conversion Story

It all started with Green Eggs and Ham. My name is Nikki, and I'm a reading addict.

Books have always provided me more entertainment than a movie could ever hope to. In middle school, my best friend Becky and I became obsessed with Jack Weyland, to the point of writing him a letter, to which he replied! (Side note: years later, as an adult, Weyland's grown son moved to my hometown. I happened to be at a friend's house when the son stopped by. When they told me who he was, you'd have thought I was meeting Brad Pitt, I was so star-struck. And this was just his son!) From Weyland, Becky and I moved on to much deeper and darker material, mostly Chaim Potok novels. I also devoured Edgar Allan Poe and Mary Shelley's Frankenstein. Potok remains my favorite author to this day.

My love of fiction continued through high school where I ate up even assigned books like Lord of the Flies. (Don't get me wrong, though, I hated my share of assigned material just like the rest of the kids. To this day, I have no clue what Beowulf or Heart of Darkness were about.)

After high school, as a young married adult, I read Anna and the King, Les Miserables, and Little Women as I walked to and from work and school every day. Les Miserables was the first non-religious book to make me cry. In a way, it was a turning point in my reading "career." Books could really move me and maybe even change my life. I would later be so moved by books like The Kite Runner, A Thousand Splendid Suns, and These is My Words.

Then my beloved babies were born. Between the diaper changes, the lack of sleep, and generally getting the hang of motherhood, I was lucky to get in a book every 6 months (compared to my current 1-2 books per week). My love of fiction, like my love of alternative music, was put on the back burner. Until Twilight. Reading Meyer's heart-wrenching saga awakened my love of fiction and I've been a relapsed addict ever since!

The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins

colorful.
humanity.
hope.

Where to begin? This book was everything I could hope for and more. My only thought when I finished the first book, was that I needed to start the second book, Catching Fire immediately...and I did. The only pity is that the third book doesn't come out until August!

I had my doubts when I read the summary of the book, I mean how could an entire book be written about children fighting to the death for food? Sounded like a serious downer to me. I was pleasantly surprised to find the overall plot to be hopeful and heart-warming.

Lionsgate is making a movie and I just hope it will do the book justice because the book, is amazing.

5 of 5 stars

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[SPOILER ALERT!]

Kate's "Conversion" Story

My story isn't really a conversion story, as much as just a story.

I come from a long line of fiction readers. I don't remember a time in my life when my Grandparents, Mom and Dad, and siblings weren't reading a book. My parents taught me to read at a young age, and to read often.

My first real love of fiction came in the 2nd grade with The Boxcar Children, and subsequently progressed to The Babysitter's Club. By the 4th grade I had started reading The Work and The Glory Series and fell in love with historical fiction. As a young teen I devoured Jack Weyland and Anita Stansfield books like they were going out of style. I was lucky enough to have a librarian for a mother; so having access to new books on a daily basis kept me in a blissful world of fiction - even 'till the wee hours of the morning on many occasions.

In high school I LOVED my English classes and will never forget the first time I read fantastic works of fiction like The Importance Of Being Earnest, Cold Sassy Tree, Lord Jim, and Wuthering Heights. Not only did I get to read for homework, but I got to dissect the books afterwards and write all my feelings about them on paper. What more could a book lover want from a class?

As an adult I find myself reading all different genres of fiction - mysteries, youth, fantasy, historical, romantic...the options are endless. That is the true joy of reading works of fiction - they can encourage you to learn a skill, remind you of what it felt like to fall in love, treat you to fantastical lands and whimsical peoples, give you a chance to reflect on time gone by and things you take for granted, or they can simply be a sweet escape from a busy and trying time in your life.

In short, I was born and bred to be a fiction reader...and for that I feel very blessed.

The Host by Stephenie Meyer

conflicting.
adventure.
love.

The Host was the obvious choice when I was searching for what would be the third fiction book I've ever read. I figured since I was into Stephenie Meyer's writing, then it should be pretty safe. While I can see how some people thinnk this author has plot issues, I actually appreciate the way she writes. The plot builds slowly but steadily and I always think the suspense is worth it in the end. I was glad that the pace of the story kept up throughout this book.

I'd probably compare it to Eclipse in the Twilight Saga because it has quite a bit of action and I had no idea how everything was going to resolve, but it did...beautifully. This book made me laugh and cry. Can't wait to read the next Host book that Stephenie is rumored to be writing.

5 of 5 stars

Breaking Dawn by Stephenie Meyer

shocking.
sexy.
tense.

I wasn't prepared for what was going to happen in this book. It was like watching a car accident...I just couldn't look away. The story did drag on a bit for me but it was well worth it in the end. I was pretty satisfied with the ending, though I'd love to read another series picking up where this one left off someday.

On a side note, I'm not sure how they're going to make this into a movie while keeping it tasteful, but I sure can't wait to find out! Oh, and I'm all about Edward still. He brings out the school girl crush in me (;

4 of 5 stars

Eclipse by Stephenie Meyer

action.
love-triangle.
giggle.

Overlooking the grammatical errors that bothered me to start, I found this book action-packed, engaging, and satisfying. Most memorable for me, was the tent scene that seriously made me laugh out loud.

I remain team Edward at this point. Something about his desire to be with and protect Bella, not to mention his ability to do so makes me a little crazy, in a good way (;

On a side note, Kristin Stewart in the movie really bothers me.  I think she acts like a snobby brat. I'm uncertain if she meant to act that way, or if the actress is just like that in real life, but she bugs.  In the book, Bella is perhaps naive, yes, but there is an innocence about her inner struggle when you read the book that is lost in the movie.

5 of 5 stars

Cheryn's "Conversion" Story

My friend, who is a serious bookie, told me that she believes people who claim they don't enjoy fiction just haven't found the right book. I laughed at the time and thought, seriously not for me; I have more pressing and important things to do with my time.

Wow, I had to eat my words, 'cause I am officially a fiction convert.  After unintentionally watching Twilight, and really liking the whole star-crossed lovers  and vegitarian vampire plot, then watching New Moon, I had to know what happened next! So my friend loaned me her copy of Eclipse and Breaking Dawn [by Stephenie Meyer, who btw, happens to be my friend's, husband's cousin--got that?].  At any rate, I read these books over Christmas Break, and that was the beginning of the end. I am officially hooked. I suppose my vise could be worse, right? Lots of my reading is either while I'm on the eliptical, or while waiting for a doctor's appt, etc. So in my twisted mind, I'm actually being more productive by adding reading here and there in my daily routine.

The purpose of this blog is purely to review and discuss fiction books. I'm hoping the books I read will be clean. Which is to say that I prefer reading to be enjoyable, inspiring, funny, whitty, and relaxing, without every other word being: [censored] and [censored] or [censored] which I find unnecessary and ultimately tiresome. That being said, we are all adults here, so I will overlook a minor infraction here or there if its well-worth it in the grand scheme of the storyline.

Do you have a recommendation or review?  Feel free to comment to your heart's content <3 Until then...

HAPPY READING!