Daughter of Smoke & Bone #1 Daughter of Smoke & Bone

Angels and Demons and Prague.......now that is a new combination and some exotic locations to read about too. Presenting Daughter of Smoke & Bone #1 Daughter of Smoke & Bone by Laini Taylor.

Here is the summary of the book:

Around the world, black handprints are appearing on doorways, scorched there by winged strangers who have crept through a slit in the sky. In a dark and dusty shop, a devil's supply of human teeth grown dangerously low. And in the tangled lanes of Prague, a young art student is about to be caught up in a brutal otherwordly war. Meet Karou. She fills her sketchbooks with monsters that may or may not be real; she's prone to disappearing on mysterious "errands"; she speaks many languages--not all of them human; and her bright blue hair actually grows out of her head that color. Who is she? That is the question that haunts her, and she's about to find out. When one of the strangers--beautiful, haunted Akiva--fixes his fire-colored eyes on her in an alley in Marrakesh, the result is blood and starlight, secrets unveiled, and a star-crossed love whose roots drink deep of a violent past. But will Karou live to regret learning the truth about herself?

The age old war. Angels and Demons. Angels and the Chimera, and its all happening in Prague. This is the story of Karou and Akiva. Everywhere in the world black hand prints are appearing burnt on doorways. And Brimstone, the wish monger is close to dangerously low on teeth. And the truth unveils....... just maybe not as they would have liked.

Karou, the human raised by the demons. Karou, although not quite human shrouded in mystery leaving us guessing. Aristics and sassy, Karou is a force to be reckoned with. Always producing beautiful sketches of her demon guardians and working jobs for them when needed. All the way looking for the one true love but never sure of what to do. Her life begins to get more interesting when she comes across the winged Seraphim, Akiva. A hot ass but a hard ass to the like. There is a much-to-much history behind the attraction between Akiva and Karou which might I say was very well written but a bit too much exaggerated at the same time.

Akiva, for his part is as I mentioned very hard to like. Born and bred in battle, he always appears to be a bit mean if not in the presence of Karou. Admittedly, the long history explained of Karou and Akiva is a bit long winding and slightly tedious but ultimately helping is to understand the semantics of the tale. 

The setting of the Gorgeous city of Prague was definitely a plus for the tale. I have next to no idea about this city so it was a marvel to read. Since this was my first Laini Taylor read, so I totally loved it, the same wayin which she brought her characters, the setting, the twists and turns to live was simply a marvel. And that bit about the meaning behind the title.........ooh secrets! secrets!!!!!

"Forbidden love. Star-crossed lovers of the past. Truly epic and exotic"

Genre :      Young Adult, Urban Fantasy, Paranormal Romance


Publisher: Little Brown Books and Young Readers


Rate:             5 /5 (It was Amazing)

Young Adult Giveaway HOP

Young Adult Giveaway Hop

January 29th - February 4th

Co-hosted by BookLove101

You can make selections from below

RULES : 

1. There will be only One Winner (subjected to change). 

2. Winner will be informed via email and *must* reply within 48 hours else I won't have a choice but to select another winner. 

3. All entries would be verified. 

4. Just fill in the rafflecopter below :

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Owl Post #6 [January, 2013]

Guys, today I'm doing something new on my blog....been coming on for a long time. This meme, called Owl Post is created by Brodie of Eleusinian Mysteries inspired by In My Mailbox by The Story Siren. Been meaning to do this since forever and I just love this idea. I'm being a Ravenclaw since at the age of eleven and couldn't seem to remember to do this....kudos to Brodie for thinking about this!

Before you all proceed further, let me make something clear:-

1. Just like my IMM posts, this will not be done every Sunday but on the last Sunday of each month... the reason why you'll see a lot more books in here than normal.

2. This first Owl Post will have all the books that I received in January, 2013.

3. Also it will feature a list of recap link at the bottom of the page, which enlists all the review, interviews and tour posts I have done that particular month. Now I expect you all to visit each link and give out a comment here and there(would very much appreciate it) and you all can link your reviews too, i'd love to comment.

4. You are all welcome to share what you all got in the comment section below....i'd love to visit....

For Review

Netgalley

Ex-Heroes - Peter Clines
Heist Society #2.5 Double Crossed - Ally Carter

From Publisher

Watersong #1 Wake - Amanda Hocking (from Pan Macmillian India)
The Last War - Sandipan Deb (from Pan Macmillian India)
Losing It: Making Weight Loss Simple - Dhruv Gupta & Prachi Gupta (from Pan Macmillian India)

Recap Links

2012 - A year in blogging

Reading Challenge 2013 - Book Chick City - 100 Books in a Year

COVER REVEAL: The Seven Year King by KIKI HAMILTON

Mara Dyer #2 The Unbecoming of Mara Dyer - Michelle Hodkin

VIRTUAL BOOK TOUR - SEVEN POINT EIGHT: THE SECOND CHRONICLE by MARIE HARBON
Healer #2 Scent of Magic - Maria V. Snyder
The Reaper Diaries #1 Undeadly - Michele Vial

The Reaper Diaries #1 Undeadly

Its the Grim Reapers.....and they are teenagers.....Presenting The Reaper Diaries #1 Undeadly by Michelle Vial.

Here is the summary of the book:

The day I turned 16, my boyfriend-to-be died. I brought him back to life. Then things got a little weird... Molly Bartolucci wants to blend in, date hottie Rick and keep her zombie-raising abilities on the down-low. Then the god Anubis chooses her to become a reaper—and she accidentally undoes the work of another reaper, Rath. Within days, she's shipped off to the Nekyia Academy, an elite boarding school that trains the best necromancers in the world. And her personal reaping tutor? Rath.  Life at Nekyia has its plusses. Molly has her own personal ghoul, for one. Rick follows her there out of the blue, for another...except, there's something a little off about him. When students at the academy start to die and Rath disappears, Molly starts to wonder if anything is as it seems. Only one thing is certain—-Molly's got an undeadly knack for finding trouble....

Egyptian Mythology. Grim Reapers. Necromancers, Zombies, Ghosts, Ghouls and TEEANGERS. If that did not interest you then I don't know what will. Ms. Vial has created a world like no other.....well yes some shades of the like have been seen before.......welllll the idea is not new........welllllllllll........oh forget it I'm stuck ......was trying to channel the 10th Doctor, David Tenant (Doctor Who, of course) but no matter The Reaper Diaries is definitely a new and fresh idea. But it still lacks something pretty vital points in my opinion. A bit of balance in the story that could have set this thing off. 

These are the diary entries of Molly Bartolucci, who gets chosen by Anubis to be a grim reaper but unknowingly disrupts the work of another reaper, Rath and off she goes.....shipped off to the Nekyia Academy to be groomed as a reaper. Learning to settle down as a Legacy, nurturing her power and attracting a whole lot of trouble. But at heart it is the Egyptian Mythology that gives the whole thing a pure definition.

Spirited and Snarky. Two words that define Molly perfectly but she is a teenager as well. And well teenager have teenager problems......oh! I am so not elaborating. But she is a likable character and since the whole book is from her perspective, so a lot of drama can be expected......but it was believable. Rath is the pure definition of a bad boy who is hot. I especially enjoyed all the times Molly and Rath were thrown in together, all the banter, all the excitement. A kind of yin-yang if you must. Definitely believable and enjoyable and I am expecting a development there in the next books.

But the one thing.....wee bit.....but the crux of the matter, there is no balance in the story. Too shaky. Too much world building and a mild plot. While it is quite clever of Michele Vial to start every chapter with an introduction into this world she created before the chapter actually begins but it seems she forgot to weigh the plot alongside it which would have great if rectified. Like the point of Molly and Rick.....there was no solidity there.......felt like it was just put these to try to maintain a teenager drama......bit fail there though!!!!

But still I think I would totally give it a chance and hope for a more explosive one on its sequel.

"Likable story and its Anubis.....nothing can go wrong with the Egyptian God of the dead"

Genre :      Paranormal Romance, Young Adult


Publisher: Harlequin Teen


My Copy:  Netgalley and Publisher


Rate:              4/5 (Really Liked It)

Healer #2 Scent of Magic

A further chapter into this splendid series. Presenting Healer #2 Scent of Magic by Maria V. Snyder.

Here is the summary of the book:

Hunted, Killed—Survived? As the last Healer in the Fifteen Realms, Avry of Kazan is in a unique position: in the minds of her friends and foes alike, she no longer exists. Despite her need to prevent the megalomanical King Tohon from winning control of the Realms, Avry is also determined to find her sister and repair their estrangement. And she must do it alone, as Kerrick, her partner and sole confident, returns to Alga to summon his country into battle. Though she should be in hiding, Avry will do whatever she can to support Tohon’s opponents. Including infiltrating a holy army, evading magic sniffers, teaching forest skills to soldiers and figuring out how to stop Tohon’s most horrible creations yet; an army of the walking dead—human and animal alike and nearly impossible to defeat. War is coming and Avry is alone. Unless she figures out how to do the impossible ... again.

Sequel to Touch of Power....and its quite good. Mind you it didn't have the amazing feel like the first book had but it was still very good. Scent of Magic was definitely not bad but could have been better.

So, Avry's alive and well because that Peace Lily spit her out. But things are a mess now. There is a manic king, a sister who hates her and some creepy walking dead people. And there you have it the scope of the tale widens....a sure sign of the second book syndrome(just a little bit) but still worth the read.

Scent of Magic is actually divided into two parts - one half focuses on Avry and the other on Kerrick....why did they have to separate! We do see Belen "the poppa bear", "the monkeys" and Prince Ryne again though. But whereas Touch of Power that had the thrill of the chase, of spells cast, Scent of Magic substitutes it with the palpable tension sprouting throughout the entirety of the book.

There is a certain level of uncertainty among the characters, they do not know what they are looking toward, they are all on edge over the eminent battle with King Tohon, and the need to defeat him before he destroys them all. Then there is the mystery of the Peace and the Death Lilys. I have to say Avry was truly kick-ass, it takes a lot of it to stand tall in the face of danger. Then there is Kerrick, i did enjoy reading him worried about Avry but sorely missed on the current on the current on route action (with Avry).

Maria V. Syder provides a book that stays true to the state and time of battles. There is tension, preparation, deception, diplomacy, uncertainty, desperation.......rather a big degree of desperation. All these elements are here and us readers can feel it. but I still wasn't satisfied because the story book ran in two different targets which is definitely not good.

But that cliffhanger.......GOD SAY IT AIN'T SO.....all I say it involves Kerrick and I AM DYING TO READ 'TASTE OF DEATH' IS IT 2013 YET!!!!!!

"Dark with the clouds of battle overhead, Scent of Magic is but a bridge that needs to be crossed to proceed to the next level"

Genre :      Paranormal Romance, High Fantasy


Publisher: Harlequin MIRA


My Copy:  Netgalley and Publisher


Rate:              4/5 (Really Liked It)

VIRTUAL BOOK TOUR [Promo Post & Giveaway] - SEVEN POINT EIGHT: THE SECOND CHRONICLE by MARIE HARBON

ITS THE LAST STOP GUYS. Le' Grande Codex is proud to present the final tour spot for Marie Harbon’s book SEVEN POINT EIGHT: THE SECOND CHRONICLE.



About the Author:-




Marie Harbon has worked in both the retail and fitness industry. She has a degree in sport and fitness and taught group exercise for several years, delivering aerobics and Pilates classes. For two years, she delivered BTEC Sport courses and has also instructed dance and sport with children.


Aside from writing novels, she is developing her script writing and editorial skills. A busy bee, she is also a self-confessed fabric geek and loves making bags and corsets.




About the book:-





‘The Truth Will Set You Free’

In the second instalment of the Seven Point Eight series, the legacy of the OOBE project weighs heavily on the conscience of Dr Paul Eldridge. Tahra Mamoun needs to muster all her courage and venture back into the alternate dimensions of reality. Through a series of challenging, surreal and frightening experiences, she comes to comprehend the destructive power she can yield and must face her own demons in the process.

Paul continues his quest to understand the ancient knowledge of the cosmos, while dark forces seek to hijack his research to further a secret agenda. With their lives in jeopardy, Paul and Tahra confront their enemies against an international backdrop featuring the pyramids of Giza and the peaks of Switzerland.

Meanwhile, Sam and Ava endeavour to uncover their past, even though it may irrevocably change their lives.

In a tale of courage and tragedy, love and betrayal, their lives are interwoven around the demons of one man, Max Richardson, who’ll stop at nothing to achieve his objectives.



Written in the style of a TV series, Seven Point Eight draws together quantum physics, psychic powers, alternate dimensions, time travel, past lives, ancient wisdom and conspiracy in a soap opera for the soul.



It’s the ideal read for lovers of sci-fi, contemporary fantasy, paranormal, metaphysics, ‘Lost’, ‘Fringe’, ‘Touch’, and Dan Brown books.

IT'S THE FINAL DAY OF THE TOUR....

.......SO WHY DON'T WE PLAY A LITTLE GAME

Quiz: What ‘Seven Point Eight’ Character Are You?

1. What interests you in life?
1. Exploring and being a part of something bigger
2. Science, technology
3. Music, art, creative self-expression
4. Nice house, stylish cars and fine clothes
5. Making a difference, doing something fantastic to benefit others

2. If you’re attracted to someone, how would you pursue them?
1. Pull out all the stops and use all your powers of seduction
2. The natural approach; strike up conversation and see where it goes
3. The romantic approach; write or sing a beautiful song
4. Splash out on gifts and fine dining
5. I must admit, I’ve been hurt before so I’m quite wary on an emotional level

3. What are your key strengths?
1. Courage, passion, determination
2. Intelligence, ability to solve problems
3. Creative and artistic
4. Leadership, persistence, cool headedness
5. Cooperation, compassion

4. Which ability would you prefer to be gifted with?
1. To see any place or time in the world
2. Intellectual genius
3. To speak with the dead
4. To be able to make a lot of money easily
5. Surprise me!

5. What is the purpose of special abilities?
1. To yield power over others
2. Success and recognition
3. They’re just a curse
4. To make money
5. To help others

6. What would others say are your key faults?
1. Can be manipulative and controlling
2. Not thinking things through properly, hasty
3. Can be cocky at times, a loner
4. Possessive, too obsessed with things
5. Too trusting at times

Mostly A

Mostly B

Mostly C

Mostly D

Mostly E

MOSTLY A

You’re a feisty and passionate individual just like Tahra, who’ll stop at nothing to get what you want. There’s an almost rebellious determination inside of you yet you love wholeheartedly and this brings out your sweeter side. Your downside is the need to exert control over others, try to be more sensitive.

MOSTLY B

Intellectually, you’re strong and will go far in the world of technology and science, like Paul. There is a naturalness and spontaneity about you and you generally get on well with others. However, you need to think your decisions through more carefully and look at the longer term repercussions.

MOSTLY C

You’re a romantic and artistic soul, just like Sam. Ideally, you’d like to get on with creating beautiful art or music but the Universe has other ideas. Deep down, you’re very sure of yourself but generally don’t blend well with others, preferring to beat your own drum.

MOSTLY D

You have your feet firmly planted in the material world, just like Max. Your status, lifestyle and the things you own are important to you but at times, you can cling too hard to these. In life, maybe you need to broaden your horizons and see that money and security aren’t everything.

MOSTLY E

Like Ava, you are a gentle soul who’d like to contribute something meaningful to the world, but you’re not sure how you fit in. Because you’re a genuine person deep down, you often believe others are the same but unfortunately, they can take advantage. However, you’re a credit to the world and your time will come!

But now its turn for the actually interesting part.....THE GIVEAWAY.

1 winner. INT GIVEAWAY. 1 FREE copy of Seven Point Eight: The First Chronicle for everyone via Smashwords. Plus, 12 ebook swagbag including, sci-fi, fantasy, paranormal and YA titles.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Mara Dyer #2 The Evolution of Mara Dyer

Deliciously thrilling and highly suspenseful, Mara Dyer's tale grows ever more intriguing with each step. Presenting Mara Dyer #2 The Evolution of Mara Dyer by Michelle Hodkin.

Here is the summary of the book:

Mara Dyer once believed she could run from her past. She can’t. She used to think her problems were all in her head. They aren’t. She couldn’t imagine that after everything she’s been through, the boy she loves would still be keeping secrets. She’s wrong. In this gripping sequel to The Unbecoming of Mara Dyer, the truth evolves and choices prove deadly. What will become of Mara Dyer next?

If you think the Unbecoming of Mara Dyer was complicated then think again because the Evolution.... raises the scales a bit higher with its even more complicated settings and revelations and such delicious.....delicious story line. We bow to you Ms. Hodkin for giving us books with such high intricate plot lines that are guaranteed to bring you on to an excited journey.

The lines between reality and illusion are mixing up at dangerous levels. And its all gets to the brink of  complication when a ghost from the past comes back. Mara and Noah are at a loss. They can't find the reason why they have been given such powers. All the sources that could have lead anywhere.....but it's all dead end now........and in the mean time Jude seems to be haunting the day lights out of them.

My word.....Mara's story compliments beautifully with each book. Making us confused each and every time. Just when it appears that the mystery is finally solved, something else comes up to shroud it all in a suspicious maze. And Noah and Mara are at the middle of it all. Noah! Noah! Noah! oh how chivalrous you are. And sexy too. He gets HOTTER by the second doesn't he! Well we get to see this dark side of Noah.....which I definitely loved......Come on he got himself institutionalized just to be with Mara and keep her safe. If that is not devotion then I don't know what would be (perfect boyfriend material ^_^) ...... Mara's character also evolves very much in here. She gains a much deserved surety within her. She knows what she wants and with Jude hanging around dangling a knife upon their heads knows not to involve her family.

Oh! Ms. Hodkin how you torture us so. Such perfect characters. Such complicated characters. Such twisty plot lines. Serving to keep us on our toes and confused till the end as the unravels around us. Oh! Simply marvelous. A grade 'A' book 2 in a series I ever read...Now I just need the Retribution of Mara Dyer.....but that ending......WHAT!...WHAT!...WHAT!! GOD I NEED THAT THIRD BOOK NOW.....

"Dark and Twisty..and pure HOTNESS...and complicated....so deliciously complicated.....YOU RUE THE DAY YOU MISS IT OUT"

Genre :     Young Adult, Paranormal, Thriller


Publisher: Simon & Schuester Books for Young Readers


Rate:             5 /5 (It was Amazing)

COVER REVEAL: The Seven Year King by KIKI HAMILTON

OMG MY GOD IT'S A BEAUTY FOLKS....JUST LOOK AT IT

THE SEVEN YEAR KING 

 Book Three in THE FAERIE RING Series. 

THE SEVEN YEAR KING will be released May 14th, 2013.

A short teaser:

A deadly sacrifice, a heartbreaking choice, an uncertain future...

Here are the covers for books one, two and three:

Reading Challenge 2013 - Book Chick City - 100 Books in a Year

I am participating in Book Chick City's 2013 Reading Challenge. I went 119 books last year lets see if I can surpass that or not.

2012 - A year in blogging

So, all the expectations of Apocalypse are overturned. We have survived 21/12/2012 and leaping into 2013 with much vigor. I know that this is a later blog post, i have been meaning to post it around Jan 1 or 2nd but something or other always came up. So, i present a quick review of 2012.

I celebrated my blog's 1st Blogoversary this year.

I won many giveaways this year.

Started receiving review copies from 3 big publishing groups - Random House India, Pan Macmillan India and Hachette India.

Netgalley is as eva very good to me......OMG so many books to read.

And Edelweiss still isn't there yet :(

And most of all I crossed 2 milestone following quota....first 500.....then 600.......now 700..........My current follower count is 718.

Oh and i took part in three reading challenges

Well is read 100+ books this year, total count being 119. So thats done with the 1st challenge but somehow i only read 4 or 5 in the next two, so i suppose quite good but could have gone better......
lets see here is the link that tells you the books i read in 2012....... (CLICK HERE)