Love on the Lifts by Rachel Hawthorne

      About the book: Winter Break super-secret perfect cocoa recipe:
      8 oz steamed whole milk (no skim! doesn't work!)
      2 tbsp. dark cocoa powder (big scoops)
      1 tbsp. sugar (can't be too sweet)
      4 dried, crushed mint leaves (or 1 tbsp. mint syrup)
      Stir thoroughly. Add mint swizzle stick. Combine with cute ski instructor, or brother's cute best friend, or cute guy you never noticed was cute...Enjoy.

      Quote of the Book: "No tears now, Katie. I've had other guys in my life, just none like Michael. The important thing is for you to go out and enjoy life. Get cozy with a ski instructor or Sam's friend. Don't wait for life to tap you on the shoulder. Go out and tap it." -Aunt Sue

      My thoughts and opinion: This book was really a pleasant read and I'm not just saying that. Also, it suits this month perfectly. Gosh, Nancy, did you plan this out? Did you intentionally choose a wintery read? Why, yes I did. I'm glad I chose to read this book because it was cold outside and it's nice to be able to relate to the book a bit. Speaking of relating, I could seriously relate to Kate, it was too strange. I could picture every character being someone I know. Just a name switch and it would be my life. Except the one difference between Kate and me is the fact that I don't know how to ski. 
      Kate was quite a character because she was feisty and witty but also she was clueless. She calls her brother Clueless Sam, but I would call her Clueless Kate. Or maybe Klueless Kate to have that alliteration pattern. Seriously, it took way too long for her to realize that hey! Joe had a crush on her! And maybe she has a crush on him, too! And Brad is totally not worth it! Also, I loved the petty spats she has with Sam. Oh the silly sibling fights! 
      Joe is such a cutie! Argh! One cannot have enough Joe Foster in one's life. The connection and bond Joe had with Kate is really hard to find and I just love them together. Poor guy, though. His hints did not work at all. Joe should have just confessed to Kate sooner. I really admired how he truly cared for Kate unlike Brad who cannot remember Kate's name even if it was tattooed on her forehead. 
      AUNT SUE is the coolest book character ever! Man, I wish she was my aunt! I would love to just talk to her about everything. Therefore, I have to say Aunt Sue was my favorite character. I thought it was hilarious how she played matchmaker. Oh, she's just so wise and still so clever and smart and awesome! 
      Overall, I enjoyed this book and thought it was a quick and easy read. I didn't read this while sipping mint hot chocolate, but I will definitely remember to do so if I read this book again. This book was warm, funny, and ab-snow-lutely adorable. 

Along for the Ride by Sarah Dessen

      About the book: Ever since her parents' divorce, Auden has been unable to sleep. She's built a routine that gets her through each night; but when the opportunity comes for her to spend her summer at the beach with her father and his new family, she jumps at the chance to break out of her rut.
      Life at the beach proves more challenging than Auden expects. In addition to trying to figure out how she fits into her father's new life, she also has to navigate the girls at work with their gossip and friendship and crushes. And then there's Eli, a fellow insomniac who becomes her nocturnal tour guide. With an endless supply of long summer nights between them, almost anything can happen....

      Quote of the Book: "'Hot dogs!' Adam burst out excitedly. "We've got hot dogs! Tons of hot dogs! Here! Have one!"" -Adam.

      My thoughts and opinion: I loved this book because the characters just clicked and there were so many little moments that came together in the end. I noticed I seem to be on a roll of reading books that include the main male character having green eyes. Maybe that's fate telling me I need to meet a guy with green eyes pronto. 
      Let's talk about Auden. I like the fact that she was more into numbers and calculating because numbers were easier to deal with than feelings and emotions. High five! I could relate to that. Numbers never lie and you can always trust them. Oh my gosh, but Auden should not have let Eli slip away like that. I thought I was going to pass out before I could get to the part where they finally come together again. 
      Eli is so mysterious! And cool! I seriously need to be friends with this guy. I don't care that he's a book character. Haha. I thought his history was depressing but I am so glad that Auden made it better for him. They totally are meant to be. It's also really awesome how Eli can do bike tricks and I can barely ride a bike so flipping and jumping on a bike is terrifying. 
     I really, really liked how Auden and Eli's friendship/relationship developed! All those late nights, it almost makes me want to become an insomniac and find some guy who's an insomniac as well and just go on quests with him. I also agree with Auden that everything is different after sundown. Things change and there are many possibilities that could happen at night. 
      Oh, Sarah Dessen does it again. Although I like This Lullaby better, Along for the Ride is a terrific book, too. It's the perfect summer book, but it is still a good book to read in the winter too. This book took me along on a very cute ride. :-)

Eleanor and Park by Rainbow Rowell

     About the book: Set over the course of one school year in 1986, Eleanor and Park is the story of two star-crossed misfits -- smart enough to know that first love almost never lasts, but brave and desperate enough to try. When Eleanor meets Park, you'll remember your own first love -- and just how hard it pulled you under. 

     Quote of the Book: "It's up to us not to lose this." 
-Park Sheridan 

     My thoughts and opinion: I wanted to read this book for the longest time and gosh, reading it was just awesome. It's witty. It's adorable. It's a great book. Although the time period is in the late 1900s, it didn't feel like I was reading something historical (which is good because I probably would have stopped reading).
     I loved reading how Eleanor and Park's relationship developed and the thought of them falling in love on a school bus is cute and funny. It was also adorable when Park would give her his comic books and he'd mix cassette tapes for her. I fell out of my chair laughing when Park was searching for all the AA batteries he could find. 
     Okay now for the characters. Eleanor Douglas is the coolest, strongest, and awesomest (or most awesome to be grammatically correct) girl! I really do admire Eleanor because she has four other siblings and she is so caring. I could never be like that with so many siblings. And even though Eleanor is extremely poor, she makes the best of it. She continues with her life as if nothing is wrong when most people would not be able to take it. I also love how Beebi and DeNice helped her out and took Eleanor under their wings. That was really kind of them and Eleanor had real friends which made the book better knowing things were not all gloomy for her. Eleanor had special people in her life especially Park.
     Oh, Park Sheridan. First of all, I would love to meet him. An Asian with green eyes and black hair? Very hot. I kind of thought it was funny how on the cover, Park is wearing a light blue shirt, but in the book, it's mentioned that he usually wears black. Park is so thoughtful and sweet. I like how protective he gets and he's just so perfect with Eleanor. His parents are wonderful too. I hope to have a marriage like theirs. 
     I don't understand how Sabrina, Eleanor's mother, could be with Richie if he is an abusive, good-for-nothing drunkard who is also a perv. Richie really made me sick to my stomach and I was jumping with joy when I read that she and the kids got up and left Richie. They all deserve way better. 
     That ending was not enough for me! It totally left me hanging and it's so ambiguous! I like that Rowell left the ending for readers to interpret, but I need to know exactly what the postcard said! I kept looking for more pages to read, but it just ended there. 
     Eleanor and Park was a wonderful book and I absolutely enjoyed reading it. The characters and the dialogue between Eleanor and Park was so cutesy and adorkable. After I finished reading this book, I felt an urge to go read a comic while listening to the Smiths. 

The Avery Shaw Experiment by Kelly Oram

     About the book: When Avery Shaw's heart is shattered by her life-long best friend, she chooses to deal with it the only way she knows how --scientifically.                                                                                        The state science fair is coming up and Avery decides to use her broken heart as the topic of her experiment. She's going to find the cure. By forcing herself to experience the seven stages of grief through a series of social tests, she believes she will be able to get over Aiden Kennedy and make herself ready to love again. But she can't do this experiment alone, and her partner (ex partner!) is the one who broke her heart.               Avery finds the solution to her troubles in the form of Aiden's older brother Grayson. The gorgeous womanizer is about to be kicked off the school basketball team for failing physics. He's in need of a good tutor and some serious extra credit. But when Avery recruits the lovable Grayson to be her "objective outside observer," she gets a whole lot more than she bargained for, because Grayson has a theory of his own: Avery doesn't need to grieve. She needs to live. And if there's one thing Grayson Kennedy is good at, it's living life to the fullest.

           

     Quote of the Book: "Hey now, you can't just go jumping in the shower with every guy you know. That's totally our thing." -Grayson Kennedy

     My thoughts and opinion: I'm not a science geek, but I thought this book was awesome. It was different from anything I've ever read, which could be a terrible, awful thing, but for this book, it was a wonderfully delightful thing. And I thought the cover was pretty cool because the periodic table of elements is there! I mean, how often do you see that on a book?

     Onto the characters. Avery reminded me of an innocent deer. She was cautious and careful (who wouldn't be after getting your heart broken?) but it wasn't to the point where it made the book unbearable to read. Avery might be shy, but she can be quick and she certainly isn't dumb. 

     Well, in the beginning, it may seem so. However, I thought Avery's judgement was just clouded because her heart was really, really broken. Like stepped on, smashed with a baseball bat, and thrown off a ten-story building. So, I really felt for Avery when she tried to defend Aiden's behavior and actions. Her denial was understandable. Avery Shaw was, in a way, a complex character to read, but no matter how frustrated I sometimes got at Avery, (yeah that happened, too) I still liked her since she wasn't really a bad person.

     And another character who likes Avery is Grayson! I totally loved Grayson from the start when he inserted his own prologue. What's not to love about him? Grayson's charming, sexy, hilarious. He's also really caring and gentle and just so darn perfect. I also liked how everything he did was for Avery; you could tell that Avery was his whole world. (Seriously. Grayson even joined the science club for her.) He never truly gave up on the science project and on curing her broken heart even though it seemed hopeless in some parts of the book. Not to mention, Grayson is super funny, which just adds on to how awesome he is. The guy has a fantastic sense of humor and it was nice to laugh every once in a while. 

     Aiden Kennedy. Now, since I love connections, I'll connect. When I met Aiden, I couldn't help but think of Aidan from Girl at Sea. There are similarities between the two characters like the fact that Aiden and Aidan are smart guys and their names are almost, almost the same. But while I loved Aidan, I really, really did NOT like Aiden Kennedy. I could not stand Aiden with his selfishness and his cruel revenge back at the cabin. The one time when I paused hating Aiden was when I realized what he said was true, that Grayson did, in fact, steal Avery away from Aiden. Then again, the way that Aiden acted (especially when he was with his horrible girlfriend) he didn't deserve Avery anymore. In my opinion, Aiden really didn't deserve Avery's forgiveness, but I guess it helped Avery's heart heal. 

     The friends in this book were great, too. Grayson's friends were popular yet cool at the same time. They were the good kind of popular, and I thought it was great of Pam and Chloe to take Avery under their wing. Avery's friends were witty and geeky and they treated a jock like Grayson somewhat equally. I mean, they took Grayson bowling in order for him to grasp the concept of Newton's Laws so, that's a pretty generous thing to do, right?

     Overall, I enjoyed this book very much. It was cute and fun with all the characters and humor. I thought The Avery Shaw Experiment was a roller coaster of a book since there are emotional stuff (SEVEN stages of grief!) Even if you're terrified of roller coasters, you can still try this book out. It's just as awesome without all the dizziness. 

His Eyes by Reneé Carter

     About the book: Amy Turner's about to graduate from high school and all she wants is a job. Actually, all she wants is to find a way to pay for college. Amy certainly isn't looking for love when she answers an ad to baby-sit a boy-she just need the cash. But the job has a catch: The boy is blind...and he's her age. 
     Tristan Edmund may be hot, but he doesn't want Amy's help. Or so he thinks. After being blinded in a horse show-jumping competition, Tristan spends his days in the dark, refusing to accept his disability. Much to his annoyance, Amy bursts into his life and drags him into the light. But just as the two begin to see something in each other, Tristan's beautiful ex-girlfriend shows up. Will the temptation be too much, or will Tristan choose the girl who really sees him? 

     Quote of the Book: "Way to be humble, Romeo." -Amy Rose Turner

     My thoughts and opinion: What a light yet sweet read! I knew I was going to like this book after  reading the summary, and I was right. There was humor in all the right places which is always great, but at 3 in the morning, I had to contain my laughter. I would have been laughing, though. And the characters were fabulous and kept me going.
     Amy Rose Turner is so cool and easy-going like whipped cream in a mug of hot chocolate. The way she bonded with Chris and Marly was so caring and gentle; it must have been her baby-sitting expertise. I thought Amy would be a great role model for the kids. Next, Amy is so persistent, in a good way, because she got Tristan to open up to her. I thought that was really awesome how she was determined to help Tristan and earn the money for Evanston, her dream college. So determined that she was able to tolerate Lexus or better known as, The Creature. All in all, Amy is just amazing because she got Tristan to change for the better.
     Tristan Edmund is... He is really something because in the beginning, he was emotionless like a rock and then once he's comfortable with Amy, he turns into this witty, sweet, fun guy to be around. And when The Creature shows up, Tristan is an oblivious ice cube, trying to please his mother by hanging with The Creature and therefore hurting Amy. Finally, towards the end, Tristan was wonderful again. More than wonderful. Although Tristan seemed like the typical, rich snob, he proved me wrong because he was actually a good person. He's one of the good people! 
     Since there needs to be a balance, The Creature is the loathsome character. There's also Kristy, but I didn't hate her; I just disliked her. Kristy didn't do that much to make my blood boil, but The Creature made sure the stove was turned on. I didn't think anyone could be so self-centered until I met The Creature. I'm still incredulous how Tristan could have dated such a vile girl. However, the book wouldn't have been great without an evil character like The Creature. She was the total opposite of Amy and that made Amy all the more better. Even the kids love Amy way more than The Creature.
     Speaking of the kids, Chris and Marly are just the cutest siblings ever! And they totally loved Amy more than The Creature which warmed my heart. Chris was like the ideal little bro because he was mischievous yet adorable. And all those Battleship games reminded me of childhood years. 
     Overall, I really liked this book and not surprisingly, it turned on my tear faucet in some parts. If you're a sucker for happy endings (like moi) or just looking for an light read, then give this book a shot! :-)

Impossible by Nancy Werlin

     About the book: Lucy is seventeen when she discovers that she is the latest recipient of a generations-old family curse that requires her to complete three seemingly impossible tasks or risk falling into madness and passing the curse on to the next generation. Unlike her ancestors, though, Lucy has family, friends, and other modern resources to help her out. But will it be enough to conquer this age-old evil? 
     A beautifully wrought modern fairy tale from master storyteller and award-winning author Nancy Werlin. Inspired by the classic folk ballad "Scarborough Fair," this is a wonderfully riveting and haunting novel of suspense, romance, and fantasy.

     Quote of the Book: "I'll think of something. You're pregnant, for crying out loud. They won't arrest you. Come on, Lucy. We aren't going to let a little thing like what people will think stop us. Besides, Southerners are hospitable. They'll probably offer me lemonade." Zach Greenfield.

     My thoughts and opinion: First of all, take a look at that amazing cover! It's so beautiful and the dress is fabulous. Also, the flying hair is pretty neat, too. 
     Despite the bad reviews on this book, I thought it was actually really good. And it isn't because the author and I share the same name. I mean, don't get me wrong, that's totally awesome. However, I actually loved the characters and the plot. The whole curse thing was very appealing and there was a LOT of suspense so I loved that.
     Lucinda (or more commonly known as, Lucy) Scarborough was an excellent character to read about. I was amazed by her determination and her strength. Lucy gets pregnant and she makes the decision to have the baby which was admirable, in my opinion. She kept going at the puzzle, even though it was almost impossible. Lucy did not give up, and maybe she wanted to at the end, but she had Zach to encourage her on. Lucy was also strong because although her mother, Miranda, was a lunatic, that did not bring Lucy down. Lucy might have been afraid and resentful at her mother, but Lucy came to respect her mother. I also thought Lucy was mature and she handled her situation well.
     Zachary or Zach Greenfield was just as wonderful as Lucy. At first, I thought he was going to be a jerk or a total wimp and back out from helping Lucy with the curse and pregnancy. However, I was really wrong because Zach was so supportive of Lucy and then that one part, I was shocked and surprised by what he asked Lucy. But of course I definitely approved of them being together. I loved how caring Zach was and also how he would sacrifice and change his life for Lucy and the baby.
     Soledad and Leo Markowitz deserve a Best Parents award. When they find out that Lucy is pregnant, they were really understanding and super supportive. Also with the curse, Soledad and Leo worked hard to try to solve the pieces of the puzzle. I liked Miranda Scarborough a lot especially when she isn't crazy. Miranda seemed nice and cool, and I would love to read more of her. And last of the characters, Padraig Seeley. I was suspicious at first and I knew all along. Poor guy, but he deserves what he got which was nothing. 
     Overall, I disagree with the people who thought this book was terrible because I thought it was terrific! However, I do think it's possible this book won't amazed everyone. I personally loved it, but I can think of some people who will not touch the book. I still recommend it; I mean, just give it a try. And however impossible it may seem, there's a happy ending! 

A Walk to Remember by Nicholas Sparks

     About the book: Every April, when the wind blows from the sea and mingles with the scent of lilacs, Landon Carter remembers his last year at Beaufort High. It was 1958, and Landon had already dated a girl or two. He even swore that he had once been in love. Certainly the last person in town he thought he'd fall for was Jamie Sullivan, the daughter of the town's Baptist minister. 
     A quiet girl who always carried a Bible with her schoolbooks, Jamie seemed content living in a world apart from the other teens. She took care of her widowed father, rescued hurt animals, and helped out at the local orphanage. No boy had ever asked her out. Landon would never have dreamed of it. 
     Then a twist of fate made Jamie his partner for the homecoming dance, and Landon Carter's life would never be the same. Being with Jamie would show him the depths of the human heart and lead him to a decision so stunning it would send him irrevocably on the road to manhood...

     Quote of the Book: "You have to promise that you won't fall in love with me." -Jamie Sullivan.

     My thoughts and opinion: I made a mistake. I read this book without having a box of tissues by my side. As always, Nicholas Sparks amazes me with another tearjerker. I had to admit that the beginning was a slow one, but I kept on reading and boy, am I glad I did. The whole story was very touching and the unique characters were wonderful in their own way. 
     Landon Carter didn't impress me at first because of his dislike toward theatre. (I love drama and acting and plays.) Also his attitude toward Jamie was, to be honest, rude and a sweet, kind girl like Jamie didn't deserve such treatment. However, because of the Christmas play (which I loved!) I started to like Landon much more. There are things I admire about him like how hard he tried to be a gentleman and what he did for the orphanage. So then, Landon became one of my favorite characters especially in the middle and towards the end.
     Jamie was instantly my favorite because she's truly a good person and she really taught Landon (and me) how to live life, and forgive and forget. I thought Jamie was a really inspirational character and one that I'll never forget. I really loved her and Landon together and I loved how much they've been through together. Their love is so powerful that it doesn't die. 
     I'm pretty sure that I did not dislike any characters. I mean maybe there were some negative emotions toward one or two characters, but I thought the characters were too minor to even remember. I even grew fond of Mr. Hegbert, Jamie's dad because although he may seem like a grumpy, old man, he's really just a very caring father who loves his only daughter. 
     Overall, I loved this book and its characters. The world could really use a Jamie Sullivan or two. I cried, I laughed, and I smiled. There is no doubt that this book is definitely one to remember.

Two-Way Street by Lauren Barnholdt

     About the book: There are two sides to every breakup.
     This is Jordan and Courtney, totally in love. Sure, they were an unlikely high school couple. But they clicked; it worked. They're even going to the same college, and driving cross-country together for orientation. 
     Then Jordan dumps Courtney--for a girl he met on the Internet.
     It's too late to change plans, so the road trip is on. Courtney's heartbroken, but figures she can tough it out for a few days. La la la--this is Courtney pretending not to care.
     But in a strange twist, Jordan cares. A lot.
     Turns out, he's got a secret or two that he's not telling Courtney. And it has everything to do with why they broke up, why they can't get back together, and how, in spite of it all, this couple is destined for each other.

     Quote of the Book: "Jordy, I had no idea you felt that way about me. I have to warn you, though. I happen to be in a very committed relationship." -Brain Joseph "B.J." Cartwright 

     My thoughts and opinion: Nothing like starting off a new month with a book review, right? Lauren Barnholdt amazes me again with this book so she is on my Favorite Authors list now. It's jealousy, love, hatred, and wit bound in a cool-looking book that has half of a car on the front and the other half on the back! 
     I enjoyed reading Courtney's point of view and then Jordan's point of view and vise versa. I'm actually glad the book is written that way or else I think I would have ended hating one of them and that would not be good. However, going back to how their relationship started and then returning to the present confused me a bit. It was a little tricky making the switch and there were a few times when I had to stop and think whether what I just read was the past or present. But readers (and I) would not get to see how Courtney and Jordan's relationship develop if it was just the present. 
     Okay, so now the lovely characters. Jordan surprised me because I thought he would be a total jerk, but he's a real gentleman and he's the only one for Courtney! Lloyd is a great friend, and it should stay that way. I love the way he cares for Courtney and worries about her like a true boyfriend should. It just shows that Court is Jordan's whole world. Yeah, cheesy, but I felt like that was the case.
     Courtney is... Well, she's a lot because she is stubborn and she runs away from anything she doesn't like. I can't blame her though, from her point of view, she didn't know anything; she didn't know the whole truth. Her anger and pain and heartbreak was right for her to feel, but I thought she should have listened and see things from Jordan's perspective. However, Courtney was really funny and I enjoyed reading her jealous moments and her made-up scenarios. 
     B.J. and Jocelyn are hilarious together; seriously, their bickering had me laughing for a long time. I thought they were great friends to Jordan and Courtney and a great couple. I liked how Jocelyn was such a good friend to Courtney and B.J. had Jordan's back. I sort of hoped for a double date somewhere in the book. 
     Overall, the book was a light and fun read and eat. It didn't disappoint and it was different from what I'm used to reading. In a good way. :-)

Beautiful Creatures by Kami Garcia and Margaret Stohl

   
     About the book: Lena Duchannes is unlike anyone the small Southern town of Gatlin has ever seen, and she's struggling to conceal her power and a curse that has haunted her family for generations. But even within the overgrown gardens, murky swamps, and crumbling graveyards of the forgotten South, a secret cannot stay hidden forever. 
     Ethan Wate, who has been counting the months until he can escape from Gatlin, is haunted by dreams of a beautiful girl he has never met. When Lena moves into the town's oldest and most infamous plantation, Ethan is inexplicably drawn to her and determined to uncover the connection between them. 
     In a town with no surprises, one secret could change anything.

     Quote of the Book: "I know you wouldn't be here if you didn't have a reason, and I suspect Macon Ravenwood's niece is, if nothing else, a reason. So why don't we all go into the back room, make a pot of tea, and try to be reasonable?" -Dr. Marian Ashcroft

     My thoughts and opinion: I went against my tradition. I heard about the movie and therefore went to go see it. However, I don't think I broke my rule completely because I didn't know the movie was based on a book.
     Anyway, I really enjoyed reading this book. It was interesting how it was written in Ethan's point of view. After reading a bunch of books with the girl's point of view, it was refreshing to read this book. I would have liked reading it in Lena's point of view, too. I mean, she's a Caster! Reading a story through the eyes of a Caster would be just as awesome.
     I also liked how it was based in the South and that just gave the book a nice Southern twang to it. The dialogue of some of the characters was challenging to read at first, but after a few chapter, it's like an accent switch turned on so I mostly finished the book with a (terrible) Southern accent. Speaking of the South, I got a hint of history too (which usually would lose my interest since I am absolutely not a history buff) but Kami Garcia and Margaret Stohl did a fantastic job, incorprating the ancient feel into the story. All of these things made Beautiful Creatures different from what I normally read. And although it was different, I thought it was a good different.
     Maybe I'm just feeling kind, but I don't recall hating or even disliking anyone in this book. I might have felt a little annoyance at Ethan's dad, but that just made Amma better.
     Surprisingly, I was able to tolerate Savannah and Emily and the other wannabes. I mean, they're going to have a dull, miserable life after high school. There's no future for them except being the next DAR group. Then again, it was immature of those girls to ridicule Lena all because she didn't fit in and meet the Savannah Snow Standards. Oh, and Ridley. Even though she was a Dark Caster, she wasn't too bad because she did not harm Link. She must have had some feelings if she spent all that time with Link.
     I instantly loved the Sisters and I realized that the movie did not include them. A real pity, but usually I find the book better than the movie. The Sisters added a little humor to the book, too.
     Now, for Ethan and Lena. Gosh, their chemistry is so sweet. They belong together like coffee and books. Go Ethan! If he hadn't been persistent, he wouldn't have gotten Lena to open up to him. The book really empathsizes on the forbidden love idea because Ethan's a Mortal and Lena's a Caster.
    I definitely love this book and there were some emotional parts for me. Let's just say, I thought this book was truly beautiful.

The Truth About Forever by Sarah Dessen

     About the book: A long, hot summer.
     That's what sixteen-year-old Macy Queen has to look forward to. Her boyfriend, Jason, is going away to Brain Camp. She's stuck with a dull-as-dishwater job at the library. And all of her free time promises to be spent studying for the SATs or grieving silently with her mother over her father's death. 
     But everything changes when Macy is corralled into helping out at one of her mother's open events, and she meets the chaotic Wish Catering crew. Before long, Macy ditches her library job and joins up with the Wish gang: bighearted Delia; quiet, introspective Monica; and fun-loving, fashion-conscious Kristy. But best of all, there's Wes--artistic, insightful, and understanding Wes--who gets Macy to look at life in a whole new way...
     In her trademark style, acclaimed author Sarah Dessen gently explores the heart of a vulnerable young woman who yearns to give in to her emotions--but doesn't quite dare.

     Quote of the Book: "It's just that...I just think that some things are meant to be broken. Imperfect. Chaotic. It's the universe's way of providing contrast, you know? There have to be a few holes in the road. It's how life is." -Delia

     My thoughts and opinion: I read this wonderful book for my English book project and I am so happy I did. I think I might reread all my favorites a second time because it's great to relive memories. 
     Macy is really oblivious and indecisive, but she's loyal and strong. Even though Jason, her jerk boyfriend, basically ended their relationship in an email, Macy still held up Jason's job at the library where there were two female robots at the counter who treated Macy like a fly. And Macy doesn't really have a mother until the middling end when her own mother breaks down and then starts to care for family and not work. So, Macy is pretty strong since she practically had to be for her mom and herself after her dad passed away. 
     Wes is...extraordinary and I love Macy and Wes together because their connection and bond is really true and real. They have some things in common but even if they didn't, I think Macy and Wes still would have fallen for each other in the end. Oh, but I gotta talk about Wes. So Wes is a sort of quiet sculptor who makes angels out of anything he can find that is preferably just laying there and for free. I thought this part of him gave him a uniqueness depth. He's just as oblivious as Macy, maybe a little less, but it took way too long! Now that I think about it, if Wes hadn't already worked with the Wish Catering crew, then Macy wouldn't have met him. 
     I mentioned it. The crew of Wish Catering. Okay, so I loved the fun-filled, action-packed crew and every single one of the members. Monica was really quiet and occasionally clumsy, but she really impressed me at the end(ish) of the book when she opened up to Macy. Bert is like the brother I wish I had because he's adorkable with his End-of-the-World obsession. Plus the GOTCHA! game that he participates in with Wes is just so brotherly that I wanted to crile. Yes, smiling while crying or crying while smiling. Kristy is like the sister I wish I had because of her fashion sense that I am not quite achieving at the moment. She's so straight-forward and blunt, which was one of the personality traits I grew fond of. Delia is a great woman and I truly applaud her for being able to bring up a lot of children and also managing a catering career. From what I reread in this book, catering seems to be really demanding. 
     Just read this book especially if you like forbidden love or fate-destiny. Festiny. And change because Macy does a lot, like A LOT, of changing in this book and her mother does somewhat at the end. And look at that cover! How can anyone resist the tempting...flower? Hahaha. 

Catching Fireflies by Sherryl Woods

     About the book: When bullying threatens to destroy a teen's life, painful memories resurface for dedicated high school teacher Laura Reed and pediatrician J.C. Fullerton. With the support of the Sweet Magnolias, they bring the town together to ensure that a promising student's future isn't ruined. And to establish once and for all that bullying has no place in Serenity, South Carolina. 
     Both J.C.'s and Laura's passion for the cause is deeply personal, and their growing feelings for each other are just as strong. But with so many secrets hurts to overcome, can these to vulnerable lovers find the strength to believe in happily ever after?

     Quote of the Book: "I could list them, you know, in the interest of fair disclosure and all that." -J.C. Fullerton 

     My thoughts and opinion: This was also a birthday gift and I gotta say that it's funny and sweet and frustrating in all the right ways. I never thought I would give books like these (bigger author name than title) a shot and also since they wouldn't fall in the YA category, but I stand corrected. This book was amazing and I'm sort of going to turn into a major romantic if I keep reading books like these.
     Anyway, the characters were so distinct and I love them all in a special way. So first off, Laura Reed was witty and classy and I liked that a lot about her. Her determination to help Misty Dawson really inspired me. It would have been better if she got an award or something. "And the Best High School Teacher of the Year goes to Laura Reed!" She also reeled in J.C. without breaking a sweat because of her natural beauty and wonderful personality.
     Since I mentioned his name, J.C. Fullerton was such a charming man. I don't know how he managed to fend off a relationship and stay single for that long. I'm glad he decided to settle down with Laura though because they make a really nice couple! His history and past was somewhat hidden until that speech he gave at the rally in support of Misty. 
     Escaping from all the love and romance and the Laura/J.C. relationship excitement, I thought that having the bullying conflicts was an interesting take on writing a romance book. I never consider the possibility of finding love from a bullying problem. I have to say, that was what I was frustrated about. Misty did not go to anyone for help besides Katie, who I think is a tremendously loyal friend. All she did was try to hide from the world which everybody knows is not possible. Her parents frustrated me the most and they were so distracted especially Misty's mom. Oh my goodness, if she hadn't woken up from her coma of delusions, I would've jumped into the story and yelled at her. 
     However, the person who's guilty of bullying is Annabelle Litchfield and talk about a scumbag diva. She was responsible for her actions because even though her mom, Mariah Litchfield spoiled her rotten, her mom didn't force Annabelle to do those horrendous things. I felt sorry for Mariah but Annabelle got no sympathy and she doesn't deserve to leave and run away from her consequences back in Serenity. It was probably best for Misty that Annabelle left though. While reading, I wished Greg would go away with Annabelle. He shouldn't even be allowed to be within twenty feet of Misty. 
     While the bullying angered me, I liked having something else to read about besides the lovey lovebirds. It gave this book depth and conflicts because all good books have one or five conflicts. I'd definitely recommend this book because it might inspire some people or tug on some heartstrings. I didn't need to read the other books in the series, but that is great for people who don't have the other books. Catching Fireflies was wonderful on its own. Did I mention that there was a history teacher named Nancy Logan? Totally awesome.

Temptation by R.L. Stine

     About the book: Sometimes evil is sealed with a kiss.
     The vampires of Sandy Hollow crave the summer months. Summer means plenty of beach tourists...and plenty of fresh blood after months of deprivation. But this year the Eternal Ones have decided to spice things up with a little bet: The first to seduce a hot date of the human variety, and then turn them into a fellow creature of the night, wins. 
     The catch? In order to successfully turn their prey, they must take only three sips of blood on three different nights. If they take too much blood on any night, the human will die and the bet will be lost. 
     The setup sounds simple enough, but things quickly get complicated--especially when these vampires are just dying to quench their thirst...

 
     Quote of the Book: "All's fair in love and war, you know."    
     -Gabriel Martins


     My thoughts and opinion: I got this book for my birthday and I thought that it was time I read it. Now, I have and I must say that R.L. Stine did not meet my expectations. However, I really think he's much better at writing children's horror stories. I remember loving his books as a child, but a teen book? I don't think it delivers. 
     Anyway, there were many different characters and technically, this book contains three stories.
     Starting off with the first one, I thought it was a nice beginning. I liked Gabri and Jessica together even though they were Eternal Ones and apparently didn't want to be with each other. But, the little arguments they had were amusing. I really didn't like April even though she, sort of, resembles me in a way. When she got upset at Matt and ran off with Gabri, it was her anger that pushed her to do such a dumb thing with an absolute stranger. I'm impulsive like that too. However, I did not like the way she ignored Matt. Her attitude irritated me so much! Despite his obsession with horror movies and arcades, Matt is not that bad. Sure, he didn't give his full and undivided attention to April, but hey. What do you expect from a teenage boy?
     Then, there was the second story and I sensed a bit of repetition because it was still vampire meets human, seduce them, and suck on their blood. However, for this second story, I really liked the foreshadowing and the clues in different parts of the story. A lot of mixed feelings I had were mostly in this story. I liked the whole plot of it and the climax was great. Billy left a positive feeling for me because of his determination for a desire that was hidden until the end of this story. 
     The last story, the third, was the best of the book even though it was extremely short. That ending was a brilliant example of a story twist. It made up for the terrible characters in the first story and some others in the second. 
     Actually, all of these stories had a surprise ending, but I think Stine nailed it for the third story. Although, I was, sort of, worn-out from all the shocks so I wasn't really feeling it right after I finished the book. I really had to think of why the third story seemed the best.
     Overall, I would not recommend this book. That's mainly because I felt it didn't have strong characters or that much details. Perhaps, I just didn't find the genre of this book fascinating and interesting. However, if you guys are bored and in need of a somewhat little read, go for Temptation but don't get your hopes up like I did.

Vibes by Amy Kathleen Ryan

     About the book: Nothing is beyond Kristi Carmichael's disdain--her hippie high school, her friend Jacob, her workaholic mom. Yet for all her attitude and her mind-reading abilities, Kristi has a vulnerable side. She can hear the thoughts of her fellow students, calling her fat and gross. She's hot for Gusty Peterson, one of the most popular guys in school, but of course, she's sure he thinks she is disgusting. And she's still mad at her father, who walked out on them two years ago. Soon, a school project brings her together with Gusty, her father comes home and drops a bombshell, and a friend comes out of the closet, and suddenly she is left doubting that she can read people at all. 
     Bitingly funny but ultimately poignant and positive, this YA novel is completely on the mark.

     Quote of the Book: “It's not fair that the gorgeous get more gorgeous when they're pissed, while the ugly only get more hideous. ” -Kristi Carmichael

     My thoughts and opinion: This was definitely one of those books I devoured through and wanted seconds. The characters, the events, the conflicts were all so great! I even like the cover! 
     I thought it was sarcastically funny and painfully annoying and joyfully happy. I loved Kristi's sarcasm and awesome ability to read minds, but I hated her stubbornness and her oblivion. She really made me laugh at some parts; it was great to read such a funny character. However, all throughout the book, whenever there was Gusty, I kept thinking, "SICK MEANS COOL!" 
     Speaking of, Gusty is now added on my favorite guy book characters list! Awkward and cowardly but gorgeous made both Kristi and me frustrated! I forgave him for being such a coward at the end of the book though. It was such a shame that it took that long for that to happen. Hahaha I'm being so vague. Also, I was really fond of the fact that he knew how to skate. 
     Poor Mallory. As I was reading, I understood how Mallory felt and it was heartbreaking to read about his pain and why did Kristi have to lead him on? 
     I disliked Kristi's father though. He is the worst father I have ever read. (That might change, but for now, yes.) I don't like it when people break promises and Kristi felt the same about her dad's promise to fix the special container. Her father was really conceited as well; I almost threw the book at the wall when he admitted that he was in love and he was meant to be a doctor. He's supposed to be Kristi's father. There's NOTHING more important than that. I guess he obviously couldn't do that so he ran away to Africa. On the other hand, Kristi's mom was the best mom ever! I loved her concern for Kristi and how she was so strong willed even though Kristi's father practically abandoned them. Kristi's mom was a good example of a strong, tough woman. 
     Overall, I think this book was amazing and I'm so glad my friend recommended it. You guys really need to read this book. I mean how could you not? There's also this surprise near the end of the book that I thought was a major bombshell. And who doesn't love bombshells?