Book Review | Fangirl by Rainbow Rowell

In Rainbow Rowell's Fangirl, Cath is a Simon Snow fan. Okay, the whole world is a Simon Snow fan, but for Cath, being a fan is her life--and she's really good at it. She and her twin sister, Wren, ensconced themselves in the Simon Snow series when they were just kids; it's what got them through their mother leaving.
Reading. Rereading. Hanging out in Simon Snow forums, writing Simon Snow fan fiction, dressing up like the characters for every movie premiere.

Cath's sister has mostly grown away from fandom, but Cath can't let go. She doesn't want to. Now that they're going to college, Wren has told Cath she doesn't want to be roommates. Cath is on her own, completely outside of her comfort zone. She's got a surly roommate with a charming, always-around boyfriend, a fiction-writing professor who thinks fan fiction is the end of the civilized world, a handsome classmate who only wants to talk about words . . . And she can't stop worrying about her dad, who's loving and fragile and has never really been alone.

For Cath, the question is: Can she do this?

Can she make it without Wren holding her hand? Is she ready to start living her own life? Writing her own stories?

And does she even want to move on if it means leaving Simon Snow behind?
-Amazon

Dear Blue, 

I can't imagine that when you read Cath, her hesitance to jump into life, her insane passion for stories, and doubtful thoughts about her abilities as a writer, that you don't think you're reading yourself from the time you were in school. Or maybe that unabashedly her person is still you. Either way, I can attest that of characters I've read and thought maybe I could relate to them...Cath takes it. 

There are a few reasons why I think Fangirl is one of the best young adult novels I've read. First is Cath. Cath is awkward and unsure of herself, a bit unsteady as to where she fits. She's everyone of us at various stages of our lives, especially if you're a "bookish fandom dweller". She embraces her dork, is passionate about fanfiction (I have a fave fanfiction fandom for each stage of life: The Mummy (1999) when I was in high school. Twilight whilst in college. And The Hunger Games now.) and she can't help but stumble through falling in love for the first time.

Second are the beautiful relationships throughout the story. Levi is well...perfection (I'm praying for one of my own) . Sunny, organic, lovely...perfect for Cath. I loved their layered growth, and how young and happy reading about them made me feel. Everyone should have a Levi, or arguably better, be the Levi to someone else. I also loved watching Cath blossom through her friendship with Reagan, her no nonsense roommate, and Wren, her twin sister who, at first, seems to be growing away from her. There's nothing better than to be taken on a journey where by the end, you see the main character grow into who you cheered for her to be all along! It made me take a sigh of relief for myself. For the freshman year Britta who dealt with the same issues of feeling like the only human being who was passionate about what she was passionate about, with guys, and finding a place. This novel also has it's serious points with Cath and Wren's parents, and their challenge to move beyond said situations. These moments balanced out the novel so well.

Third is writing. Rainbow Rowell wrote an article about Fangirl being her NanoWrimo darling. The novel she had to push through, that made her have to create the branches as she fell to grab hold of. In the novel, Cath is forced to face herself as a writer, and challenged to move away from the parts of herself that looks to fanfiction as a security blanket. As a writer, I think I'm always looking for that assurance that it's okay to feel a little unstable. Like you're walking on glass that cracks every time you take a step, but it's okay. It's okay. Push through anyway. That's what this novel was to me. A glowing minty reminder to keep going. If I ever taught creative writing, I'd surely make my students read this novel. 

Bare in mind: Fangirl contains profanity, slight sensuality, and  excerpts of non explicit Slash fanfiction.

Fangirl was a refreshing ball of joy. The way Rainbow Rowell explores life in such a snarky, romantic, and overall awesome way is priceless. It perfectly captures the rush of finding a story that sucks you into it's world so much that it becomes a friend, and gateway to an even larger family. 

Let's grab Gingerbread Lattes and have a jam session about this book for a full Saturday Afternoon. We're going in for the long haul.

Hugs and love,

Sugarcube Review | Hopeless by Colleen Hoover

Would you rather know a truth that makes you feel hopeless, or keep believing the lies? Beloved and bestselling author Colleen Hoover returns with the spellbinding story of two young people with devastating pasts who embark on a passionate, intriguing journey to discover the lessons of life, love, trust—and above all, the healing power that only truth can bring. Sky, a senior in high school, meets Dean Holder, a guy with a promiscuous reputation that rivals her own. From their very first encounter, he terrifies and captivates her. Something about him sparks memories of her deeply troubled past, a time she’s tried so hard to bury. Though Sky is determined to stay far away from him, his unwavering pursuit and enigmatic smile break down her defenses and the intensity of the bond between them grows. But the mysterious Holder has been keeping secrets of his own, and once they are revealed, Sky is changed forever and her ability to trust may be a casualty of the truth. Only by courageously facing the stark revelations can Sky and Holder hope to heal their emotional scars and find a way to live and love without boundaries. Hopeless is a novel that will leave you breathless, entranced, and remembering your own first love.-Amazon

The only thing you really need to know about Hopeless by Colleen Hoover, is that it will snatch out your heart, and leave you with that gutted feeling for days afterward.

Hopeless is about a a girl named Sky who's life is uprooted by the presence of, Dean Holder, a guy who causes unsettling memories of a past long forgotten to rise to the surface. Hopeless contains everything you would want in a romantic YA/NA novel: an outsider protagonist, and a love interest with a questionable past that both draws you in, and makes you wonder for the safety of the protagonist. But Colleen Hoover weaves a story with a hidden depth that will blow you away as you peel back its layers. Hoover tackles a disturbing topic with such sincerity and power that it's impossible not to take it with you. I especially loved that even as I thought I had pegged Sky and Dean's situation, it is startlingly far from what I thought. Sky and Dean are two beautiful characters who endure what young people should never have to endure. Their romance is pulsing, and grows more realistic as the novel progresses.

Bare in mind: Hopeless contains profanity, sexual content, and disturbing scenarios of abuse.

             

I give Hopeless by Colleen Hoover 4 out of 5 cups of Irish Breakfast.

Just One Day by Gayle Forman Book Review

A breathtaking journey toward self-discovery and true love, from the author of If I Stay When sheltered American good girl Allyson "LuLu" Healey first meets laid-back Dutch actor Willem De Ruiter at an underground performance of Twelfth Night in England, there’s an undeniable spark. After just one day together, that spark bursts into a flame, or so it seems to Allyson, until the following morning, when she wakes up after a whirlwind day in Paris to discover that Willem has left. Over the next year, Allyson embarks on a journey to come to terms with the narrow confines of her life, and through Shakespeare, travel, and a quest for her almost-true-love, to break free of those confines. Just One Day is the first in a sweepingly romantic duet of novels. Willem’s story—Just One Year—is coming soon! -Amazon 

Before this novel released, I was filled with the same inexplicable feeling that I had about The Fault In Our Stars by John Green, that this would be something to savor. Let me tell you, I was right. Gayle Forman's popularity stems from her novel's If I Stay and Where She Went, but I, unfortunately never got the chance to read these. I'm happy that my first experience of Forman is Just One Day, because it will surely be one of the most beautiful love stories of 2013. It gives me the fuzzies!

Just One Day chronicles the experiences of Allyson, who takes a summer trip to Europe with her best friend, Melanie, and is forever changed when she crosses paths with dutch actor, Willem, who takes her on a once in a lifetime trip to Paris for a day. I really loved Allyson, as I found her entirely relatable. I think that many will connect with her because she wants to break free and experience a new side of herself. I adored her European journey, especially as I made a similar journey myself. She experiences what I think every person has dreamt of at least once in their lives: to meet a perfect stranger, and connect with them in a way they never could have comprehended.

Willem is the 'perfect' enigmatic stranger. He's intelligent, he's an actor, and he lives life day by day, soaking in every experience...every happy 'accident'. I was drawn to the mysterious sides of him, I wanted to pick his brain and stay there for a while, but I found him equally frustrating. I thought that there could have been more explanation of his life, and his reasonings for doing and living as he does. Nevertheless, I think if more explanation is offered, the story may lose some of its intrigue. With the second installment of this story in Willem's point of view, Just One Year, releasing at the end of the year, I definitely wouldn't want to be spoiled for that! I loved that he is perfect, and flawed, and that Forman intertwines Shakespeare's most lauded wisdom ("All the world is a stage, and all the men and women merely players...") to weave a beautifully human story. Each little nugget given as the story unfolds is so well done. Nothing is what it seems.

Allyson's relationship with her best friend, Melanie, is realistic and a little heartbreaking. I could pin point the challenges that they would have from the first chapter, challenges that come as one moves from teenager to adult. I found myself very frustrated with Melanie, at times, but she has her own journey to undergo. This challenge and that of Allyson's parents is wonderful to experience. Allyson grows subtely right before our eyes.

One of the 'squee' worthy aspects of this novel are the delicious portrayals of Paris, London,  Amsterdam...and other wonderful European destinations. This novel is simply a jewel amongst other novels within the travelogue sub-genre. My gosh! There are so many passages I wanted to underline and paste in my journal. I'm sure there will be many European adventures planned because of this novel. My own revisit included. How awesome would it be to take out a map, close your eyes, and travel wherever your index finger lands? If you love Paris (and European Culture), and every romanticized bit of it, then you will love this novel. 

I loved that even as Just One Day is a love story, it is also a love story with ones own self. As Allyson journeys to find who she believes is her true love, she makes discoveries about herself that cause her become courageous, and step out of the shadows of her family and best friend. Even with the ominous feeling of heartbreak, this novel has an overwhelming sense of triumph, and showcases our ability to overcome and grow past things that could have stopped us short of achievement.

Bare in Mind: Just One Day contains profanity, and medium grade sexual content.

Just One Day was a second amazing start to the year, and I will be queued and ready for the release of Just One Year later this year.

 

I give Just One Day by Gayle Forman 5 out of 5 cups of strong expresso in a small Parisian Cafe...with one Macaron!

Lovely, Dark, and Deep by Amy McNamara Book Review

 A resonant debut novel about retreating from the world after losing everything—and the connections that force you to rejoin it. Since the night of the crash, Wren Wells has been running away. Though she lived through the accident that killed her boyfriend Patrick, the girl she used to be didn’t survive. Instead of heading off to college as planned, Wren retreats to her father’s studio in the far-north woods of Maine. Somehwere she can be alone. Then she meets Cal Owen. Dealing with his own troubles, Cal’s hiding out too. When the chemistry between them threatens to pull Wren from her hard-won isolation, Wren has to choose: risk opening her broken heart to the world again, or join the ghosts who haunt her.

-Amazon

When I walked into Barnes & Noble, I was stunned by this quite beautiful cover, and knew I had to have it in my  library. More particularly, I find I love novels written by poets, as the prose is something of an enchantment. Lovely, Dark and Deep, is the story of a young girl learning how to live again after trauma, and I had a pleasant experience with a little disappointment towards the end.

First off, I have to say that Amy Mcnamara is a beautiful writer. The way she describes the wintry forest that surrounds Wren is inviting and magical. It made me want to experience it for myself. I loved how this environment seemed to mirror Wren's mental state. When she felt as if she were coming out of the haze, the snow around her carries Christmas joy, but as she dips between happiness and grieve, it becomes a cold, lifeless shell. I've a weakness for writers who discuss other authors/books in their own, and McNamara supplies us with a great group of poets whom Wren connects with. This novel is steeped in art, as Wren is a photographer, and her father is a renowned artist. One of the profound questions I gathered through my reading is, how does an artist find other outlets when the very thing they turned too doesn't seem to pulse anymore?

I enjoyed reading Wren's experiences with grief, and her growth process. Mcnamara describes this realistically, and I could sympathize with her ups and downs. There were moments that felt so haunting, it reminded me of The Bell Jar by Sylvia Plath. I didn't see Wren's surprise secret coming, and it added all the more to the impact of her fragile state.

Being a sucker for good romance, I melted when Cal came into the picture with his genuine care and attention towards Wren. The chemistry they have is pretty awesome. But as the novel progressed, there were times I felt a bit suspicious of him, especially after one occasion (which you'll know when you come to it!). There were moments where I felt I wanted more from them, as if perhaps they could have been further fleshed out. Cal and Wren seem to move at a steady pace one moment, and then so fast that I felt a little worried. Perhaps this is simply the movement when two people are both dealing with traumatic issues. I also felt that I wanted a bit more time focussed on Cal and his issues. I felt that his own situation was wrapped up a bit too easily...especially by the end.

Bare in mind: Lovely, Dark, and Deep contains disturbing scenarios, sensuality, and profanity.

Lovely, Dark, and Deep is a partial New Adult book. Lets support NA Authors! It is a beautiful portrait of grief, and I do recommend the experience.

I give Lovely Dark and Deep by Ann McNamara 3 1/2 out of 5 mugs of Tazo Chai.

Kippa Picks: Just Remember To Breathe by Charles Sheehan-Miles Book Review

Alex Thompson's life is following the script. A pre-law student at Columbia University, she's focused on her grades, her life and her future. The last thing she needs is to reconnect with the boy who broke her heart. Dylan Paris comes home from Afghanistan severely injured and knows that the one thing he cannot do is drag Alex into the mess he's made of his life. When Dylan and Alex are assigned to the same work study program and are forced to work side by side, they have to make new ground rules to keep from killing each other. The only problem is, they keep breaking the rules. The first rule is to never, ever talk about how they fell in love. -Amazon 

 It rarely happens that I'm perusing through Amazon, come across a novel and finish reading it in a day, but ladies and gents, with this novel I was compelled until the last word. I also must say that this is a stunning cover!  Just Remember To Breathe by Charles Sheehan-Miles is an utterly beautiful New Adult novel about two people who meet whilst on a trip to Jerusalem, but have reality to contend with when the trip is over.

What I love most about this new adult novel is that it is a romance, but its also about Dylan who is a young war veteran, and has a pretty harsh life experience. I think the NA genre could possibly fall into a kind of predictable slant if it does not also portray young people who experience these off the beaten trail life experiences, and I appreciated most that Sheehan-Miles decided to write a novel about the impact of being a young Veteran. Dylan is a wonderful character to discover. The things that he encounters makes him very believable and organic. It's wonderful when characters do not read as a character model, they feel real right from the start. Sheehan-Miles effectively portrays the fragmented mental state of a young veteran, and the guilt that often comes with great tragedy.

Alex comes from an affluent family of scholars, and she has her future already planned out. I appreciated that she did not seem to be held back by her familial acumen, she seemed very forward and knowledgeable about her goals and place in life. Of course she has moments of frustration with her family, but it's really nice to experience a character who does not seem to be trapped by what their future may hold. Alex goes through many a challenge during her first year and a half of college, and handles it with and admirable strength and vulnerability. Sheehan-Miles did an excellent job of developing Alex' character. I'm often interested with how male writers portray female characters and vice versa, and I loved that he made Alex vulnerable, at times broken hearted, but also strong in the midst of trauma. Likewise, Sheehan also portrayed Dylan as a mans man, but in a human, emotional way that I know women will appreciate.

Dylan and Alex together are pure magic. Their chemistry pulls you in and compels you to discover the challenges of their relationship. This novel contains loads of that angst that I (I know I'm not the only one!) love in a romance, but it is not angst for angst sake. Nothing ever feels too melodramatic or overdone. When they're loving, it's awesome, when they're screaming, even through misunderstandings, its justified, and when they are vulnerable, it is wonderful.

Bare in mind: Just Don't Forget To Breathe contains profanity, sexual content, violence and some disturbing scenarios (e.g. War, and assault.)

Just Don't Forget To Breathe is such a great novel. Even with its heavy themes, it is also filled with light hearted flirtation, great comedic supporting characters, and best of all, romance! I'm thinking it has gained a slot on my examples of quality New Adult writing that will make this growing genre a force to be reckoned with.

I give Just Remember To Breathe by Charles Sheehan-Miles 5 out of 5 cups of Irish Breakfast.

Crash by Nicole Williams Book Review

Southpointe High is the last place Lucy wanted to wind up her senior year of school. Right up until she stumbles into Jude Ryder, a guy whose name has become its own verb, and synonymous with trouble. He's got a rap sheet that runs longer than a senior thesis, has had his name sighed, shouted, and cursed by more women than Lucy dares to ask, and lives at the local boys home where disturbed seems to be the status quo for the residents. Lucy had a stable at best, quirky at worst, upbringing. She lives for wearing the satin down on her ballet shoes, has her sights set on Juilliard, and has been careful to keep trouble out of her life. Up until now. Jude's everything she knows she needs to stay away from if she wants to separate her past from her future. Staying away, she's about to find out, is the only thing she's incapable of. For Lucy Larson and Jude Ryder, love's about to become the thing that tears them apart.

-Barnes & Noble

When I encountered Crash by Nicole Williams, I'll admit I was excited...but I believed that it would be your regular bad boy meets good girl story. While I was right in my assumption, I was also very surprised at its depth. Lucy is a young dancer with aspirations of attending Juilliard...loads of responsibility. Jude, on the other hand, is a well known delinquent who has no faith that he can override his past. When Lucy and Jude come together, their chemistry sizzles from the very beginning. I love when a novel can make me feel this very early on in the story! 

The aspect of Crash that I was surprised about were the happenings that connect both Lucy and Jude together. I did not expect that Jude and Lucy would have to deal with such series issues. Right from the start, Lucy encounters the darker side of his life in stride, but I did enjoy how Williams took them both through a series of trust tests. Lucy does not just fall into Jude's every whim. Jude was an enjoyable character to experience. I will admit that in the beginning to middle, I thought him a bit too self deprecating, however, as the story concluded, his sincerity becomes clear. It was heartbreaking that such a sweetheart could feel this way about himself, and I know that others will fall n love with Jude's sincerity.  I also enjoyed Jude and Lucy's journey towards healing and forgiveness.

The only thing I didn't connect with as much in Crash is that I found it a bit brash and raw. This novel is definitely for older readers (late teens and up). 

Bare in mind: Crash contains violence, profanity, and sensuality. 

Crash by Nicole Williams was quite a ride, with characters that definitely touched me in the end. I'm looking forward to its sequel, Clash! 

I give Crash by Nicole Williams 4 out of 5 cups of Irish Breakfast. 

PS: I'm sooo sorry that I have been MIA from Novel Days for the past few weeks. I've recently started a brand new job, and so I'm trying to acclimate to my new schedule, as well as prioritize now that my free time is a bit more limited. I'm also coming into the home stretch of the first draft for my New Adult novel...finally (after 5 years). I promise I haven't left! Please bare with me. Thank you all so much for your continued readership! Just think, this means more giveaways!

THE CRIMSON HUNT Cover Reveal!

I'm so excited to be a part of the celebration for Victoria H. Smith's debut New Adult novel, The Crimson Hunt! Just look at that cover, it's a real beauty. Looks like Ariel and Luca are sure to become one of the key couples in NA!

 

The Crimson Hunt (Eldaen Light Chronicles, #1) by: Victoria H. Smith 

Release Date: November 12, 2012 

Genre: New Adult Science Fiction Romance 

Book Description: 

College junior Ariel Richmond is working on year three of Project Normalcy. Her house reeks of keggers past and her bestie is just a slight bit vulgar. But the thing is—they both aid in making life refreshingly uneventful. So much for hard-earned mediocrity when Luca Grinaldi appears on the scene. Luca’s sudden presence on campus is hard to ignore. Those bright eyes act like a beacon to unsuspecting females, and with features like his, he’s got to be moonlighting for GQ. Luca hopelessly captivates Ariel with his confidence and charisma, but the mysteries surrounding him make him nearly untouchable. And just when Ariel grows close enough to unlock his secrets, a tragic event sends her life in a downward spiral. That steady life is no longer an option and allies quickly become scarce. The mysterious Luca seems to be the only one willing to help her—but with that trust comes the burden of his secrets. He has a dark mission of otherworldly proportions, and is willing to sacrifice as many lives as it takes to see it completed. Gone are the days of simply maintaining normalcy, and if Ariel isn’t cautious with her trust, so soon may be her future. 

Cover Image Designed by: Michelle Johnson
 
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About the Author: Victoria H. Smith has a Bachelor’s Degree in Political Science. She puts it to good use writing romance all day. She resides in the Midwest with her Macbook on her lap and a cornfield to her right. She often draws inspiration for her stories from her own life experiences, and the twenty-something characters she writes give her an earful about it. In her free time, she enjoys extreme couponing, blogging, reading, and sending off a few tweets on Twitter when she can. She writes new adult fiction romance in the sub-genres of science fiction, urban fantasy, and contemporary, but really, anywhere her pen takes her she goes. 

 Victoria H. Smith Links:                                             

 Blog | Facebook | Twitter | Goodreads

I hope you're as excited as I am to pick up The Crimson Hunt on November 12th!

My Name Is Memory by Ann Brashares Book Review

Daniel has spent centuries falling in love with the same girl. Life after life, crossing continents and dynasties, he and Sophia (despite her changing name and form) have been drawn together-and he remembers it all. For all the times that he and Sophia have been connected throughout history, they have also been torn painfully, fatally, apart. But just when Sophia (now "Lucy" in the present) finally awakens to the secret of their shared past, the mysterious force that has always separated them reappears. Ultimately, they must come to understand what stands in the way of their love if they are ever to spend a lifetime together.

*Car Screech* I know what you Fallen fans are thinking. Two people, named Daniel and Lucy, in a love affair spanning the dawn of time.... Sounds a bit familiar to me. I thought the same thing. But, Ladies and Gents', this is a whole other ball game. My Name is Memory by Ann Brashares is my first read of hers, and I was delightfully surprised. This novel is one of the best romances I've ever read. Brashares turns the, at times, overused theme of star crossed love into something fresh, intriguing, and gripping. 

My Name is Memory read like a historical epic, jumping from the present, to several time periods spanning a thousand years. It is written partially in Daniel's point of view, and partially in Daniel/Lucy close third person pov. I had such a great experience with Daniel's personal pov! Brashares successfully  captures a voice filled with the weight of ancient knowledge, while simultaneously allowing for the vulnerability and clever attitude of a 18-24 year old guy. It has a haunting quality to it, as Daniel experiences multiple harsh lives. It is also rich in lush detail of the ancient city of Constantinople, Cappadocia, England, and many more beautifully depicted histories. 

Lucy's (Sophia) aspects of the story were also intriguing, and I loved how she discovers who Daniel really is as the novel progresses. Can you imagine what it would be like to have someone come up to you and reveal that they have loved you throughout the ages? Such a wonderful premise. It was great to experience a character who is unknowledgeable of the full scope of things, seeing as the novel is steeped in Daniel's knowledge. 

Brashares does not paint a romantic picture filled with sap and warm fuzzies. This romance is heavy with the weight of certain harsh realities this world can carry. There are moments that are so heartbreaking I could cry for Daniel and Lucy. Out of all of their past histories, I most connected with that of Daniel and Lucy as Constance. It was so emotional and sincere, I couldn't stop thinking about it.

This novel is one that I could see becoming quite a beautiful film someday. 

The only things I didn't love about this novel are it's pacing and it's ending. There were moments in the novel that I felt were a bit dragged out. Perhaps one of its intents was to show you an example of how Daniel and Lucy feel to wait for perfect circumstances. But at times, I just wanted to grab Daniel by the hand and say, Dude, please...there she is, tell her that you're here so you both can frolick into the sunset. In terms of its ending, I have to say, I did actually like it. But it made me wish there were a sequel. After doing some research inquiring of a sequel, I discovered that, though intended to be a trilogy, dwindling book sales have caused the publishers not to push for it. Let's turn their minds around guys!

Bare in Mind: My Name Is Memory contains sensuality, profanity, and the subject of reincarnation.

My Name is Memory gave me the same feeling I had whilst reading The Fault In Our Stars by John Green. It's beautifully written, romantic, smart, and reads like a modern classic. There were so many underline worthy ponderings on life and love, I'll have to reread to get them all down.

I give My Name Is Memory by Ann Brashares 4 out of 5 cups of Earl Grey.

Autumn Top 12

There are simply too many novels I would love to read by the end of the year, but I've narrowed my Fall/Winter List down to my Top 12.

This Is How You Lose Her by Junot Diaz: Drown was one of the best short story collections I've ever read, so I flipped when I discovered that Diaz is coming out with a new collection.

Because It Is My Blood by Gabrielle Zevin: I thoroughly enjoyed All These Things I've Done, and this next installment promises more surprises, mob family drama, and illegal chocolate. What more can I ask for?

Monstrous Beauty by Elizabeth Fama: Mermaids. Crazy ones. I'm intrigued by mermaid folklore, and I love them more when they are depicted in a raw sense, instead of the Walt Disney singsong version. That being said, I also have to finish The Vicious Deep by Zoraida Cordova.

Laura Lamont's Life In Pictures by Emma Straub: There's nothing better than exploring the world of Moving Pictures in the 1920s. Such glamour, intrigue, and beauty. I discovered this via the lovely, Casee Marie at Literary Inklings.

Finale by Becca Fitzpatrick: More Patch. The end.

Time Between Us by Tamara Ireland Stone: After reading My Name is Memory by Ann Brashares (Look for this review next Monday!), I quite love romances involving time travel! If it were possible to carry on a love from Kerouac's time, I would jump right in!

The Elementals by Francesca Lia Block: Ms. Block showed me as a senior in high school with her novel, Echo, that I wanted to write in a way that would immerse readers in a lush, magically realistic world. Can't wait to read her latest mystery!

Meant To Be by Lauren Morril: After hearing that this novel is suggested for anyone who loved Anna and The French Kiss by Stephanie Perkins, I had to add this to the list. There's nothing better than a great romance that can have you feeling euphoric, regardless of other opinions.

Eight Girls Taking Pictures by Whitney Otto: This novel promises an intriguing look at female artists in several vignettes around the world. I adore photography, and thought how interesting it would be to look into several photographers lives.

Out Of Reach by Carrie Arcos: I love a nice dark, and lyrical tale depicting intrigue and addiction battles. I had to include at least one angsty tale on this list.

If I Stay by Gayle Forman: This novel has been on my TBR list for a bit over a year. I've heard so many wonderful things about it, that I would love to dive into it, and it's sequel Where She Went.

Twenty Boy Summer by Sarah Ockler: I have been trying to read this novel all summer long! At first, I thought it would be a lighthearted read, but after hearing many raving reviews, it seems to be a balanced novel detailing what it is to grieve and move forward over the course of a summer. I love novels that take me by surprise!

What novels are you excited to read this Fall/Winter?

Wanderlove by Kirsten Hubbard Book Review

It all begins with a stupid question: Are you a Global Vagabond?

No, but 18-year-old Bria Sandoval wants to be. In a quest for independence, her neglected art, and no-strings-attached hookups, she signs up for a guided tour of Central America--the wrong one. Middle-aged tourists with fanny packs are hardly the key to self-rediscovery. When Bria meets Rowan, devoted backpacker and dive instructor, and his outspokenly humanitarian sister Starling, she seizes the chance to ditch her group and join them off the beaten path. 

Bria's a good girl trying to go bad. Rowan's a bad boy trying to stay good. As they travel across a panorama of Mayan villages, remote Belizean islands, and hostels plagued with jungle beasties, they discover what they've got in common: both seek to leave behind the old versions of themselves. And the secret to escaping the past, Rowan's found, is to keep moving forward. 

But Bria comes to realize she can't run forever, no matter what Rowan says. If she ever wants the courage to fall for someone worthwhile, she has to start looking back. 

Kirsten Hubbard lends her artistry into this ultimate backpacker novel, weaving her drawings into the text. Her career as a travel writer and her experiences as a real-life vagabond backpacking Central America are deeply seeded in this inspiring story.

-Amazon

Wanderlove by Kirsten Hubbard is simply one of the best books I've read this year. It'll go down as one of my favorite books period. I can already hear you thinking, 'Wow, really?' Perhaps even becoming critical, as I know when someone tells me something like this, I'm ready to crack into a novel with the whip to see if it lives up to these grandiose expectations. But, in my book, Wanderlove exceeded my expectations. 

It wasn't the novel that I thought it would be, and I can't even truly explain what I thought I would get from it. You know that feeling you get when you're reading a novel that could add something to your life? I got that whilst reading this book, and the last time I got it, was during The Fault In Our Stars by John Green. 

Wanderlove takes you on Bria Sandoval's journey through Central America, and more, the journey of learning who she is, both as an individual, and an artist. It's a journey that is as unpredictable as the very  Central American Jungles themselves, but is so worth it.  I could relate to Bria so much during this journey...her self doubt, battling to break free from boxes that are self imposed, as well as thrust upon her, and her desire to to experience a life changing adventure. This novel deals with subtly heavy themes of manipulation, mental abuse, and abandonment, but is still lighthearted, and has that 'summer' novel feeling. These bits of heaviness added a greater intrigue to the novel that makes you fall in love with Bria, and those she meets along the way. 

During this trip she meets, Rowan and Starling, two siblings who are veteran backpackers. Bria and Rowan form an unlikely friendship, and I loved every moment. Even though it can seem predictable what happens between these two, I loved that Hubbard made it a bit unpredictable as well. Their friendship grows so smoothly and realistically. Rowan has his own demons he's running from, and it is shown in every step he makes as he travels. I couldn't help but admire his seeming self sufficiency, and bravery to want to experience every aspect of the culture around him as a local, not a traveller. I was very drawn in by his passion for diving. He brings out Bria's adventurous side, and helps her to see that it's fine to be afraid, but not to allow it to stop her from taking chances. He also helps to reaffirm her artistic self. I loved Starling's personality. She's fiesty, fun, and unwilling to live life on the sidelines. She, in a way, gives Bria this unique opportunity to seize life right in front of her, and I love her for that! I think everyone needs a Rowan and Starling in their lives.

Kirsten Hubbard's writing is so gorgeous, poetic, artful...I was sucked into every single detail of Central America: the island of Belize, the brilliance of Mayan Temples, the calm and feral nature of the Jungle, the beautiful people she meets in Laughingbird Caye, the soft wind that blows in the starlit night as you read in a swinging hammock. The author's own trips seemed to play a huge part in her specificity of setting, which I adore! On top of this, Hubbard shows off her beautiful drawings throughout the novel as Bria chronicles her journey. This aspect made Wanderlove feel like a diary. It also reads like a classic adventure story. By the end of the novel, I couldn't help but feel so excited for Bria!

I'm so happy that instead of buying the Kindle version, I bought the extra special, shiny hardcover novel. I want to take it with me on my own journeys, re-read it, make notes in the margins about writing well, and living life, and literally read until the pages fall away from its binding.

Bare in mind: Wanderlove contains slight profanity and sensuality (nothing graphic).

Wanderlove by Kirsten Hubbard, is a journey of growth, a journal, a work of art, a drawing together of people you would never meet if you never took a chance, a romance that is more than just a romance...its the journey of freedom that we all will (by God's Grace) experience in our lives. 

I give Wanderlove by Kirsten Hubbard 5 out of 5 cups of pineapple licuados.

P.S.- Wanderlove is also considered a 'New Adult' novel, as Bria and her friends have graduated high school, and are between the ages of 18 and 30! Pick it up, and lets get more 'New Adult' novels showcased.

Discovering the New Adult Genre: Removing the Space Between Young Adult and 'Adult' Fiction

Words cannot describe how excited I am to have discovered this new and upcoming genre called, New Adult, or Upper YA. As a reader, you all know that I love Young Adult fiction, and I'll always be young at heart. There is an infusion of imagination, and overall carpe diem in Young Adult fiction that seems to lack in mainstream Adult genres. But as a writer, I must admit that my novel falls under a slightly different category. When I started writing my novel in 2007, at 21 years old, I said to myself, I wanted to write a book for us eighteen to twentysomethings stepping out, and trying to make a way in this world. 

Until recently, my novel held no place in the market according to some opinions in the publishing world. I can't help but feel like it's a bit misplaced to completely overlook an entire phase of life in favor of seeming popularity. Even more, how would anyone gage the popularity of a thing, if it's never released into the world? There are more twentysomethings and beyond reading young adult fiction in the last ten years than ever before, so how can it be that a genre dedicated to this group in question will be unpopular? Maybe it's unpopular because we don't have many options to choose from. When in high school, you learn an awareness of self that is merely a slice of what you learn in college and beyond. Your life is then steeped with a bit more uncertainty as you are now pushed out of the safe cocoon of familiarity (parents, old friends, etc),  and into an oftentimes fast paced, strange faced world. We'll often feel like we are supposed to be in a specific place that seems to say we have arrived, but many of us are still in the process of 'arriving' at our individual destinations. These moments should be explored, and are worthy of presenting to the world.

Thankfully, there are more novelists out there stepping out and proving that us twentysomethings are worthy being written about. When I read Beautiful Disaster by Jaime Mcquire, which I review here, it was really the first novel I read that showcased the experiences of college life, and even then I had no idea of how to define or categorize it. It was more mature than Young Adult, and yet still too young adult to be in a mainstream adult genre. Now, Beautiful Disaster is one of the most popular self published titles. I've also recently discovered New Adult Alley, a blog dedicated to showcasing up and coming gems in the New Adult genre. They've even put together an ongoing list of books that they recommend in the genre (I found out that Wanderlove by Kirsten Hubbard falls under this category, score!!). I'm now, thanks to them, looking forward to reading Love Story by Jennifer Echols. Now that I've discovered this genre, I'll definitely be showcasing more wonderful authors. I can't tell you how awesome it is to finally be able to tack my novel down to a genre, it's like coming home.

I'm sure this genre will grow to mean a lot to mature young adults out there, who will discover more characters to relate to.

What do you think of this new genre, New Adult?