Book Shelf: The Lost Hero (Heroes of Olympus #1) by Rick Riordan

Jason has a problem. He doesn’t remember anything before waking up on a school bus holding hands with a girl. Apparently he has a girlfriend named Piper. His best friend is a kid named Leo, and they’re all students in the Wilderness School, a boarding school for “bad kids”, as Leo puts it. What he did to end up here, Jason has no idea — except that everything seems very wrong.

Piper has a secret. Her father, a famous actor, has been missing for three days, and her vivid nightmares reveal that he’s in terrible danger. Now her boyfriend doesn’t recognize her, and when a freak storm and strange creatures attack during a school field trip, she, Jason, and Leo are whisked away to someplace called Camp Half-Blood. What is going on?

Leo has a way with tools. His new cabin at Camp Half-Blood is filled with them. Seriously, the place beats Wilderness School hands down, with its weapons training, monsters, and fine-looking girls. What’s troubling is the curse everyone keeps talking about, and that a camper’s gone missing. Weirdest of all, his bunkmates insist they are all—including Leo—related to a god.

Blurb from Goodreads.....


Review:

Set in the world of Percy Jackson, Rick Riordan proves why he’s the master of what he does with his brand new Heroes of Olympus series! New myths, new legends and new characters collide in the heavily awaited spin-off series that is the next chapter in the world of Greek gods and demigods!
Riordan is the king of myth.....truly, this man can do no wrong! Greek, Egyptian Roman...doesn’t matter, he rules it all. Fans of Percy Jackson will no doubt adore this series, which seems slightly more mature than Percy Jackson, yet holds all the characteristics that made that series great.

Introduced to new heroes who I simply adored and spilt in 3 different POV’s, we’re once more drawn into the incredible world that Riordan has so incredibly crafted. With old friends and new mysteries, Jason, Piper and Leo are thrust into the world of gods, demigods and monsters!
I love the world featured in this series, honestly I do, and I was so excited to get to experience it again. This book starts up not long after the events of the final Percy Jackson book where we get to meet 3 new demigods who are a part of the prophecy Rachel spoke at the end of the last book. I admit I adored seeing the characters I loved from PJ, including Annabeth, Chiron, Thalia, as well as be introduced to the three new heroes that are now front and centre.

Jason, Piper and Leo are awesome characters. Just the kind I’ve come to expect from Riordan.
Jason, who is suffering from memory loss and has no idea who he is or his past, is brave and loyal; the ultimate leader, Piper who is the daughter of Aphrodite, is nothing like the stereotypical child of the Goddess of love and is equally brave and strong. She has an inner strength and cares nothing of looks and beauty. I liked the relationship created between these two, including the trials they are facing and will continue to face as Jason continues to learn who he is. Not giving anything away, but it makes it so much more fun watching them try to sort out things between them. They are very cute and it goes without saying that I want them together.
Leo is in a world of his own. I love this guy! He’s witty and smart mouthed, but such a sweetie. He’s extremely intelligent when it comes to machines and mechanics thanks to his father and could do anything he set his mind to it. I loved his magical tool belt and the friendship he developed with a mechanical dragon.

With fantastic characters that simply jump of the page with personality and flair, Riordan continues to build on what is already an incredibly in depth world. Honestly, I didn’t think he could do anything more, but in this book which is already shaping up to be the start of an amazing new series, Rick Riordan introduces new gods, more legends and new monsters as he expands his world. I really, really don’t want to give anything away, but Jason is the key to a whole new side to this world. Different aspects to each god come into play and the implications are extraordinary.

I know you’re all wondering.....what about Percy? And yes. He does play a role in the storyline of this book and series, although it may not be how you think. Lord, Riordan knows how to push buttons and leave you wanting more! You’ll think, “No! Really?” and just be giddy with excitement at the possibilities of this series. It’s so exciting and I truly believe it’s so good that it may rival Percy Jackson in time of Riordan continues down the path he’s currently on.
Fans of Percy Jackson, and Riordan need to run, not walk, to get this book, especially considering the sequel is just being released. I know I’ll be getting my hands on it as soon as possible; the ending is just that good!

Rating:
Source: I bought
Format: Paperback
Recommend: Yes!
Recommend borrow or buy: Buy
Cover: Haha! This cover is awesome
Read sequel/continue with series: Yes!

Buy it here:

In My Mailbox #22

In My Mailbox is a weekly meme hosted by Kristi over at The Story Siren where can share the books they bought, borrowed or received throughout the week. For more info on just what it is and how to participate, head here.

Hi everyone!
As I'm sure you've noticed I haven't been around much lately and therefore haven't been participating in IMM....well, I'm back! And I've accumulated quite a few books. Really, I need to stop buying them. I'm broke, but I still manage somehow, lol.
Here's what I've gotten the past 3 weeks.....


I Bought:




~Warped by Maurissa Guibord: This is a standalone, debut by Maurissa Guibord and I have two words for you....Unicorn Tapestry. I'm am actually a Team Zombie, but I do love Unicorns and this looks ever so cute.

~Isle of Night by Veronica Wolff: This is the first book in the new The Watchers series and it looks pretty good. It's about vampires and a training academy and more....

~The Son of Neptune by Rick Riordan: This is the 2nd book in the Heroes of Olympus series. It's a spin-off of Percy Jackson and I have actually read both the first one and this one, even though I'm a bit behind in my reviews and OMG! Is this good or what! Honestly, I think it might be BETTER than PJ and I didn't think that was possible. Review to come.

~Prophecy of the Sisters by Michelle Zink: This is the first book in the Prophecy of the Sisters. I've been meaning to read this for a while, seeing as so many people love it, but haven't gotten around for it. When I saw it fr under $5 at BD, I had to snap it up!

~Department Nineteen by Will Hill: This is the first Department 19 novel and to be honest I don't really know what it's about. I bought this on a whim from Kmart when I saw it for $3. It's about vampires and action and centers on a male protagonist. Hope it's okay.

~If I Die by Rachel Vincent: This is the 5th Soul Screamers book and I'm really looking forward to it. My mum actually bought me this for my birthday when she saw me reading the 4th and I'm looking forward to reading it.

For Review:



~From Bloomsbury Australia:
~Bleeding Hearts by Alyxandra Harvey: This is the 4th Drake Chronicles book. I really love this series and have already devoured this book. See my review here!
-Thanks so much to Bloomsbury for sending me a copy!

~From Harper Collins Australia:
~Carrier of the Mark by Leigh Fallon: This is Fallon's debut novel and first in her new Carrier Trilogy. I've heard mixed things about it, but am generally looking forward to reading it.
-Thank-you to Lara from sending me a copy of this!

~From Harlequin Australia:
~My Soul to Steal by Rachel Vincent: This is the #4 book in the Soul Screamers series. I really like this series, so I have no idea how I managed to fall behind. I've already read this and it was pretty good. Review to come.

~The Iron Knight by Julie Kagawa: SQUEEEE! I was so excited to get this book. This is the fourth and final Iron Fey book featuring Ash. I simply adore this series and am heartbroken to see it ending, but am still anticipating a brilliant read. Gonna start this real soon!

~Touch of Power by Maria V. Snyder: This is the first book in Maria's new Healer series. I love Maria--her Study series is one of my all time faves and am really excited to have gotten an ARC of this. It's gonna be epic, I can tell.

That's it for me!
What did you get in your mailbox?

Book Shelf: Bleeding Hearts (Drake Chronicles #4) by Alyxandra Harvey

The Drakes and friends will be tested when an infestation of deadly vampires threatens Violet Hill.

Lucy's cousin Christabel has come to live in Violet Hill, and adjusting to the difference between life in a small mountain town and her home in the city is difficult enough. The strict curfew that Lucy's parents enforce is the worst part. Something really dangerous couldn't possibly happen in this tiny town.
But Christabel has noticed some mysterious happenings, and it seems like Lucy, her boyfriend Nicholas and his brother Connor are all in on a secret that Christabel doesn't understand—one that seems deadly serious. Although she won't admit it, Christabel would love to be in on any secret with Connor Drake. But when she is kidnapped by the ruthless Hel-Blar vampires, Christabel must cause more and more trouble in Violet Hill, Lucy and Connor finally fill Christabel in on all the undead drama. Together, they must find a way to stamp out the Hel-Blar for good.

Blurb from Goodreads.....


Review:

Alyxandra Harvey creates an exciting new vampire tale with Bleeding Hearts, the 4th book in her fabulous Drake Chronicles! Jump back into the world of the Drake family as they continue to deal with their new position in vampire politics and face new challenges.
I simply adore this series and I was excited to begin Connor’s tale. This was is a fun, easy read that you begin and simply devour. It’s a great way to escape from life in general and is a quick read. It’s extremely exciting and is never lacking in action or romance.

I must admit I was torn at sometimes with this book. Connor is essentially the Drake brother that we are following and Christabel his love interest, but it focuses very heavily on Lucy. Lucy is first and foremost my fave character in this series. I just love this girl, she rocks. I enjoyed having her front and centre so much, but I felt at times that Christabel and Connor weren’t the main focus enough. Don’t get me wrong I loved it, but I think I would have liked to have seen more of Conner and Christabel. I just don’t think they had enough time dedicated to them, unlike Logan and Quinn’s books where it focuses mainly on them. However Lucy and Nicholas still are my favourite couple even now, so I cannot deny that I ate up every touch, kiss and moment between them.

Connor is very different from his twin and I found him very endearingly cute. I liked that he quotes Star Trek and thought about Star Wars often--it made him seem more approachable. And yet there’s no denying that he’s a Drake brother through and through. He breaks into battle in a single moment and fights just like every one of his brothers.
I did like Christabel, although I think I was expecting more personality going into this book. I loved that she was tough though and lived her own life. Similar to Connor; she quoted poems during random moments and walked to the beat of her own drum. She wore combat books and read Jane Austen, while also being ready to defend a stranger and get back at a bully easily. I think she reacted to things realistically and adjusted to her new life in a manner in which I expected.

I was disappointed with the changes in Solange, although ecstatic to see so many of the Drake family and their respective others in this book--it’s great when you get to see the characters you love again.
Overall this book is a fantastic read that I highly recommend with a cliff-hanger ending that leaves you open mouthed and thinking, “No!” It certainly wasn’t something I was expecting and I can’t wait for the next book to find out just what happens!


Rating:
Source: Sent by Bloomsbury Australia (Thanks guys!)
Format: Paperback
AU Release Date: 1st November
Expected AU Price: $15.99
Recommend: Yes--vampire fans will eat this up!
Recommend borrow or buy: Buy
Cover: The covers in this series are awesome and this one is no exception.
Read sequel/continue with series: Of course!

Book Shelf: Envy (The Fallen Angels, #3) by J.R. Ward

A man and a woman tread the lines of danger, desire, and deliverance in the new novel of the Fallen Angels from the #1New York Times bestselling author of the Black Dagger Brotherhood series.

As the son of a serial killer, homicide detective Thomas "Veck" DelVecchio, Jr., grew up in the shadow of evil. Now, on the knife-edge between civic duty and blind retribution, he atones for the sins of his father- while fighting his inner demons. Assigned to monitor Veck is Internal Affairs officer Sophia Reilly, whose interest in him is both professional and arousingly personal. And Veck and Sophia have another link: Jim Heron, a mysterious stranger with too many answers... to questions that are deadly. When Veck and Sophia are drawn into the ultimate battle between good and evil, their fallen angel savior is the only thing that stands between them and eternal damnation.

Blurb from Goodreads......


Review:

J.R. Ward is one of my all time fave authors and I love practically everything she writes. This book is no exception! I love The Fallen Angel series. A fantastic spin-off from her Black Dagger Brotherhood series, I love nothing more than diving into this hard, dark, gritty world. With raw intensity coating each page, Ward isn’t afraid to shy away from harsh themes; murder, violence, torture in both physical, mental and sexual forms all make an appearance this series and it may not be for those faint hearted. Or those who like their PNR an easy ride--expect a wild ride with this one as each book unfolds.

Envy kicks off with Jim about to begin the 3rd round in the battle between Heaven and Hell, having lost the last and being currently 1-1 with Devina. Devina continues to torture our heroes in her pursuit of the 3rd soul. What can I say? I’m thrilled to be with Jim again as he continues his mission and watch his work his angel magic.
In this book we are introduced to Thomas “Veck” Dellveckio, a tough as nails homicide cop who has a disastrous family history and who lives with the shame of his father’s actions hanging over his head. I really liked Veck. He’s the kind of cop I love to sink my teeth into. Tough, sexy and a bit of a rough playboy who looses is head when a certain woman walks into his life. I enjoyed reading about his inner struggles and battles and loved his honourable nature. He was willing to face what it was he was and what it was he’d done, even if it meant ending up in jail, all in a desperate attempt not to end up like his father.

I did like Sophia Rielly, Veck’s romance interest, but I was not without my issues with her. She’s an equally tough Internal Affairs officer with her own complicated history and I felt she was a fitting match for Veck. Rielly may not have been overly feminie and she thought with her head, but I still felt the relationship between them. Yes, it moved fast as is standard with these kinds of books, but it felt real considering everything that was going on. There were some seriously steamy scenes between the two of them and I enjoyed that, however I did have one issue with Rielly. I really, really hated how easily she accepted what people were saying about Veck and how quick she was to condemn him when he was a murder suspect. I know people tell lies and some times they can’t help but believe them, but I truly thought she should have known better than to believe such things of him. Didn’t she know him better? She should have stood by him and believed him instead of automatically believing the worst of him--which is really what she did. As I said I still liked her and enjoyed her in the rest of the book, but I just found that hard to move past.

On a side note to this romance, we have Jim and his fellow angels forever in the background and dealing with there own problems, including a heart-breaking loss. The loss of someone they love shatters Jim and Adrian and leaves them gutted. I couldn’t fight the emotion in this book. Fans of this series should be able to guess who dies considering the extent to which Adrian is broken by his loss. I may be giving away some spoilers, but there really is only one person Adrian would be destroyed to loose. The friendship and love he shares with his fallen comrade is strong and the pain and anguish he experiences over loosing him even stronger. In the scenes where we watch Adrian drown in his grief, especially the actual death scene is so heart-wrenching. Watching him cry and be so shattered is horrible. Adrian is my honey in this series. I love Jim, but it’s Adrian who has my heart and I hated seeing him so hurt in this book too. I hated seeing him change and loose a lot of himself. I wanted to see the old smart-ass Adrian back. I loved how he managed to find the strength he does to continue on and think that in time he may be okay, but it’s still saddening none the less.

The next soul and round for Jim and Devina will revolve around someone we’ve already met and while I’m not going anything away I have to wonder what the hell J.R. Ward is thinking. Why is she bringing this person back? Especially when I thought they were done and dusted; their fate decided. It just doesn’t make sense and yet I know it will have an importance in the next book.
All in all, another great read by Ms. Ward and I cannot wait for more!

Rating:
Source: I bought
Format: Paperback
Recommend: Yes!
Recommend borrow or buy: Buy
Cover: I love the blue--this is a lighter cover than I expect from this series though
Read sequel/continue with series: Uh...duh! Yes.....

Buy it here:

Favourite Quote Friday #12

Welcome to Favourite Quote Friday. Here is where I share with you two of my fave book quotes each week, one from a YA and one from an adult book. If anyone wishes to participate, leaving your quotes or links to your quotes in the comments section!

Here we go....




YA:
“And I'm suppose to sit by while you date boys and fall in love with someone else, get married...?" His voice tightened. "And meanwhile, I'll die a little bit more every day, watching.”
~Jace, City of Glass by Cassandra Clare.



Adult:
“You should be more careful. You could have broken your neck or as big as you are landed on someone and killed them.”
~Tory, Acheron by Sherrilyn Kenyon.


Come back next week for more.....

Free Ebook!

Today you can download Infinite, the first book in the Unfinished Song series by Tara Maya for FREE on Amazon Kindle right now! To download it, head here!


Infinite:

DEADLY INITIATION

A DETERMINED GIRL...
Dindi can't do anything right, maybe because she spends more time dancing with pixies than doing her chores. Her clan hopes to marry her off and settle her down, but she dreams of becoming a Tavaedi, one of the powerful warrior-dancers whose secret magics are revealed only to those who pass a mysterious Test during the Initiation ceremony. The problem? No-one in Dindi's clan has ever passed the Test. Her grandmother died trying. But Dindi has a plan.


AN EXILED WARRIOR...
Kavio is the most powerful warrior-dancer in Faearth, but when he is exiled from the tribehold for a crime he didn't commit, he decides to shed his old life. If roving cannibals and hexers don't kill him first, this is his chance to escape the shadow of his father's wars and his mother's curse. But when he rescues a young Initiate girl, he finds himself drawn into as deadly a plot as any he left behind. He must decide whether to walk away or fight for her... assuming she would even accept the help of an exile.


What do you think guys? Any of you going to download it? Have any of you read this?
I have books 1 and 2 in this series that I won through a contest but I haven't checked out.

YOU GIVE= WE GIVE Progress Update #3

Date: 27/10/2011 (I'm soooo sorry I'm late with this. This post should have been up on the 22nd. Silly Internet making things hard)


Progress Thoughts:
I admit I've had a slight decrease of books donated, but I'm still so grateful to all the books we're receiving. Gabby from Harlequin has been incredible, sending Jess, Brodie and I a massive ammount of books--thank-you from the bottom of my heart. It just makes my spirit soar to see all that we're able to do and the knowledge that there are so many generous people out there is just amazing to me.

Picture Evidence:



The top line are more books my mum purchased for the campaign. I just can't stop the woman! Oh, and I bought Department 19 myself to donate. It was on sale from Kmart so I snapped it up. The second row are more picture books and YA novels that we were able to purchase with the donated funds received through Pay-Pal. Thank-you for everyone who donated. Every dollar counts!




Here are the books Gabby sent me. Although we are mainly collecting children's and YA books, I'm so thrilled to have some to donate to adults too. After all they deserve something too, right? A BIG thank-you to Gabby once more and Harlequin!


Future Hopes: It goes without saying I want to bless as many people this Christmas and I hope you all get behind the cause. Some more fantastic prize packs have been added so head on over to the main page to check out for yourself and be a part of this amazing campaign!

Links to each of our Blogs:





Jess @ She Known As Jess BlogSpot
Brodie @ Eleusinian Mysteries
Rachel @ The Rest Is Still Unwritten


Thank you Note:
A HUGE thank you to every single author and publisher who donated novels toward both our prize packs and the Christmas tree. You guys are amazing and we cannot thank you enough for your generosity and kindness!

And....

A HUGE thank you to every single blogger, reader and anyone who has donated novels toward our Christmas tree piles. You guys are amazing and we cannot thank you enough for your generosity and kindness!




You Give = We Give.

Would you like to make someone’s life a little brighter this Christmas? Then be sure to check out our event You Give = We Give, for not only the chance to give but also the chance to WIN amazing Prize Packs yourself!






Donating Options:
You Give = We Give will run from September 10th until December 15. During the event you can either:

- PayPal = Big or Small – Every Dollar Counts!

- Donate through PayPal - We all have a donate button on our blogs.

- Buy a book from an online bookstore and have it sent to us.
Book Depository / Amazon / An Online Store

- Personally send us any extra books you have laying around .

Sending a novel through an online store or personally; email us for an address to send them too.




YouGive_WeGive (AT) hotmail (DOT) com

YOU GIVE = WE GIVE PROGRESS UPDATE.