Giveaway + Guest Blogger: Rona Go, author of Not Quite Godly

It's September 1 people! And as promised, Rona Go, author of Not Quite Godly is here at The Fairytale Nerd to share with us her views on THE ONE.

And... she's also giving away 2 copies of her book! 

hosted by I Am A Reader, Not A Writer

Two ways to win: 

1. you can leave a comment about your experience with THE ONE 

2. you can just fill up the form found below

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::  

I don't have any other terms for these kinds of characters in our lives except for — The One.

Well, The One is not your supernumerary character who passes through your life without you taking notice. In fact, The One is such a potent mark in your life that you can only hail him in a pedestal that nobody can ever match. For some reason like a fight, distance, time or even without a why, he does not really stick around in your lifetime to be there for always. And yet you know, he is The One.

I cannot also consider The One to be better than who you are with now. In fact, he can even rate as an ugly duckling. And yet, when he did his cameo role in your life, you are just taken to heights beyond your wildest imagination. And there's the firm belief that nobody can ever take you there again.

If you have watched John Cusack's movie, Serendipity—somewhere in 42 minutes and 28 seconds (just kidding, I really don't know the exact time frame J) he said something about wanting to see Godfather the original even if Godfather Part II was better! Well, it is a bit like that with regards to one's attraction to The One. Although, you are happier with who you are with in the present moment, there seemed to be that unconscious attachment and endearment to The One.

Is it possible to end up with The One?

I don't know if I got the whole story right or I just conjured the whole thing up but I think my friend, Percy, said, studies show that people don't really end up with their The One. The ratio would be 2:100 for the odds to bring you and The One to live happily ever after.

I have my own share of experience with The One. His name's the male counterpart of mine. We were seatmates and became friends. But somewhere down the road, we parted. We are probably both happier now in our present lives. And yet, there remains the nagging awareness on my part, he is The One.

If you get to read my novel, NOT QUITE GODLY, you will be introduced to a character named Apollion. I built him up as The One. Although, I plan to release the sequel late 2012, I still don't have any idea how it will all end up. Somehow, I would like to enjoy the feeling of having someone in your life that will fill your heart with both sadness and happiness. Call me nuts—but I often associate real joy when I cry and smile at the same time. 

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::        

Do you have your own experience of THE ONE? 

I would love to hear from you. 

Tell me in the comments below your experience. We will be choosing from the comments below — probably ones that make us cry and laugh at the same time— to win a copy of 

NOT QUITE GODLY 

(Smashwords Edition).

The blurb:

Would you rather hurt than feel nothing?

The prophecy was made flesh. Michaela is the devil incarnate. However, she chooses to hurt and love even without the idea of God. Half of the earth needs her. As she discovers she has an evil nature, she trains from being a supernumerary character to the prototype of a villain to vanquish her evil self along with the other half of the earth who wants her dead. Will she end up saving the day and finding true love?

The trailer:

Because Rona is so generous, 

she is giving away another eBook copy of Not Quite Godly. 

Just sign up HERE to win!
contest ended September 7

Giveaway Rules:
Open to persons 13 years old or older.
This giveaway is INTERNATIONAL.
Contest ends on SEPTEMBER 7, 2011.
Leave your name and email address so we can send you your eBook if you win. 
For a more detailed information on the rules, please read the Contest Policy.

Coupon codes provided to the winner will expire a week after the winner will be announced. 

CLICK HERE TO CONTINUE WITH THE HOP.

W...W...W... Wednesdays #2

This meme is hosted by Should Be Reading.

To play along, just answer the following three (3) questions…

• What are you currently reading?

• What did you recently finish reading?

• What do you think you’ll read next?

CURRENTLY READING:

The Night Circus by Erin Morgenstern

Bridger by Megan Curd

It's just so sad that I have to set aside The Night Circus until I'm through with all the books I have to read for book tours. 

DONE WITH:

Crave by Melissa Darnell (ARC)

I had low expectations for this book. I'm glad it surprised me! 

UP NEXT:

Flame of Surrender by Rhiannon Paille

Another one for a book tour. However, this one has amazing ratings at GoodReads (4.6). So, I'm kind of looking forward to reading this.

"Waiting On" Wednesday #10

"Waiting On" Wednesday is a weekly event, hosted by Jill at Breaking the Spine, that spotlights upcoming releases that I'm eagerly anticipating.

Daughter of Smoke and Bone 

by Laini Taylor

Expected publication: September 27th 2011

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 otherworldly 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?
__________________________

Star-crossed lovers in Prague and Marrakesh? I just find those cities mysterious and intriguing! And that book cover? Wow.

I AM SOLD.

Giveaway + Guest Blogger: Rachel Wells, author of Enchanted

Yay! We have another guest blogger on The Fairytale Nerd! For today, we have Rachel Wells, author of the book Enchanted, and she is going to discuss with us her experiences on writing, and the road to self-publishing.

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::

Hi everyone! I just published my first book, Enchanted. I am a new and unknown Indie author, but I am working hard to try to change that! My book is paranormal-you might even say it has supernatural tendencies-with a hint of innocent teen romance thrown in for good measure. Basically, without giving away too much, my main character, Mandy moves to a beachside town in Maine and discovers she’s not who she thought she was. She’s always been the quiet, blend into the wall kind of girl and suddenly she’s faced with a new school and a new way of life due to some old letters she finds in an antique trunk. She gradually accepts her new “calling” and just when she thinks she has a handle on things, some black magic threatens to turn her life upside down.

So who am I, you might ask…or why should I read your book when no one has ever heard of it or you?

Who am I? I am a stay at home mom to three girls who keep me running from 7 in the morning till 9 at night. I am a huge procrastinator in almost everything I do…I love baked goods, candy, and pineapple and onion calzones! I love anything creepy or paranormal-I’m pretty sure my house is haunted and I recently had a psychic tell me I was in tune to the “spirits”!

So why should you give my book a chance? I’ve always loved to write, and I always thought it would be awesome to walk into a book store one day and see my book sitting there with my name on the cover! And while it would still be so awesome to walk into a bookstore and see my book, reality hit me with a crash.

I started reading authors’ horror stories pertaining to rejection letters, agents, and publishers. I picked up a copy of Writer’s Market, Deluxe Edition, and noticed all the entries that said, “No unsolicited queries”.

Then last spring, my husband surprised me with a Nook. As I was browsing the “Steals and Deals” section, I discovered Indie authors. I started checking out some of the authors’ websites and blogs. I read about how they decided to self-publish and are successful.

Initially I was a bit torn as to whether pursue traditional publishing or the do-it-yourself route, but then I decided that skipping the rejection letters would be the happier of the two roads. So I uploaded my book to the Kindle, Nook, and Smashwords.

When I saw my first sale I was ecstatic! It meant someone else decided to spend their money that they earned to read something I wrote! It was amazing! It still is amazing to me! I am not expecting overnight success or fortune, and my book most definitely is not flying off the “shelves”…yet…But I do have hopes! One can dream and one should! And I am hoping you will give my book and other Indie authors a chance to make all of you dream as well.

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::

Thank you for your time Rachel! I can imagine the delight you felt on your first sale! And yes... I agree that indie authors should be given a chance. I have to admit that I have read indie books that are actually better than those traditionally published. I mean, in books, it's the content that counts, publication is just some sort of branding I guess. So people, support indie authors! You might actually be surprised!

If you want to stalk Rachel, you may do so here...

Enchanted Facebook Fan Page

Twitter

Now for the blurb on Enchanted...

Enchanted
by Rachel Wells

Mandy is a quiet teenager who just wants to blend in with the crowd rather than stand out as anything or anybody. Mandy's pretty successful at this until her parents decide it's time to move from Boston to the quiet seaside town of York Beach, Maine, to "be closer to Nana". Although Mandy has been vacationing in York every summer since she was a child, she has no desire to live there and is worried about fitting in and finding friends during her senior year of high school.

Nana owns a flower shop in town and while working alongside her, Mandy makes a few friends and observes the oddities of the little town and its inhabitants. When she finds some old and cryptic correspondance hidden inside an antique trunk handed down from her Nana, the "oddities" turn into full fledged mysteries. As she unravels the forgotten and hidden history of the town, she simultaneously unravels her own family's past and current secrets while writing her future. With bits of romance and paranormal along the way, she is able to figure out the puzzle of the correspondance, the magic she never realized was surrounding her, and visions of the past and future. Will she walk away from her personal history and her future or will she realize it's ok to be somebody, even if that somebody is nothing like everybody else?

And the good news is that we're having another giveaway. 

Rachel is giving away two eBooks of
ENCHANTED!
Just sign up HERE to win!

contest ended September 10, 2011

Giveaway Rules:

Open to persons 13 years old or older.

This giveaway is INTERNATIONAL.

Contest ends on SEPTEMBER 10, 2011.

Leave your name and email address so we can send you your eBook if you win. 

For a more detailed information on the rules, please read the Contest Policy.

Teaser Tuesday #9

Teaser Tuesdays is a weekly bookish meme, hosted by MizB of Should Be Reading.

"You still don't love me?"

I laughed. "You don't even know me yet."

"Then why don't you let me?"

-- Bridger by Megan Curd 

My Book Boyfriend #4: Prince Dhiren

A weekly meme, hosted by The Unread Reader, in which we swoon over boys in books!

Hi guys! I wasn’t able to post MBB last week… but I’m back now with

PRINCE DHIREN 

"Ren"

from The Tiger’s Curse 

by Colleen Houck

In my mind, Ren is portrayed by Imran Abbas.

Oh don’t be afraid of him! Ren is a pussy cat!

Facts about Ren:
- Born Prince Alagan Dhiren Rajaramin in the year 1657 as the crown prince of the Mujulaain Empire
- His father was of Indian descent, but his mother was Asian princess.
- Along with his brother, he was cursed and changed into a tiger
- According to Kelsey, here’s how he looks like: “He didn’t look very tiger-like, other than his eyes. He had full lips, a square jaw, and an aristocratic nose. He didn’t look like any other man I’d ever seen. I couldn’t place it, but there was something else, something cultured about him. He exuded confidence, strength, and nobility.”
- His laugh is magnetic.
- Loves peanut butter

- Loves poetry

Favorite Scenes/Lines:

He laughed. “Kelsey, we all have some animalistic tendencies. I loved hunting, even when I was young.”
I shuddered. “Fine. Just keep your animalistic tendencies to yourself.”
He leaned toward me again and pulled on a strand of my hair. “Now, Kells, there are some of my animalistic tendencies that you seem to like.” He started making a rumbling sound in his chest, and I realized that he was purring.
“Stop that!” I sputtered.

He laughed quietly. “Breathe, Kelsey.” He had a very self-satisfied, smug grin on his face, which, for some reason, got my ire up. “You seem very happy with yourself.”
He raised an eyebrow. “I am.”
I smirked back at him and said, “Well, you didn’t ask for permission.”
“Hmm, perhaps we should rectify that.” He trailed his fingers up my arm, swirling little circles as he went. “Kelsey?”
I watched his progress and mumbled, distracted, “Yes?”
He stepped closer. “Do I—”
“Hmm?” I wiggled slightly.
“Have your—”
He started nuzzling my neck then moved up to my ear. His lips tickled me as he whispered, and I felt him smile, “Permission—”
Goose bumps broke out on my arms and I trembled.
“To kiss you?”
I nodded weakly. Standing on my tiptoes, I slipped my arms around his neck showing him that I was definitely giving permission. He trailed kisses from my ear across to my cheek in achingly slow motion, grazing along a path of his choosing. He stopped, hovering just over my lips, and waited.
I knew what he was waiting for. I paused only a brief second before whispering faintly, “Yes.”

He slicked back his hair, let out a deep breath, then took my hand and looked intently into my eyes. “Kells, when are you going to accept the fact that we belong together?”
I felt sick, like I was kicking a faithful puppy who only wanted to be loved. I looked out at the pool.
After a moment, he sat back scowling and said menacingly, “I won’t let you leave.”

Read my review of the Tiger's Curse by Colleen Houck

Book Recap: Crave by Melissa Darnell (ARC)

Cover Inspection:
Deep red and black, with a girl in a white gown?
The cover is love.

SUMMARY (book description based on GoodReads):

Savannah Colbert has been shunned all her life by the kids of the Clann. And when she undergoes some drastic changes after a strange illness, Savannah learns secrets about the group and about herself—dangerous secrets. For the Clann are powerful magic users, and Savannah herself is half Clann and half vampire—a forbidden, unheard of combination. Falling for Clann golden boy Tristan Coleman isn't just a bad idea—it could be deadly if anyone finds out. But her attraction to Tristan—and his to her—isn't something either of them can resist for long.

BOOK REPORT CARD:

Cover	3.0
Plot	2.5
Writing	3.0
Characters	2.5
Ending	2.5
Overall Rating	3.0 Very Good! (89% to 92%) * highest rating possible is 4.0

LOCATION/SETTING:
Modern day Texas. The family of the protagonist live outside the city. In this story world, a group of very powerful witches called the Clann hold control. They are basically the founding families.

MAIN CHARACTERS:
The main character is Savannah Colbert. She is half vampire and half Clann. She has carrot curls and is uncoordinated. She attempted to do sports and dancing, but is just not good at anything. She used to be best friends with the son of the Clann leader Tristan Coleman, but they were prevented from being friends by the Clann because Savannah is half vampire. Tristan, on the other hand, is handsome, charming, rich, and yes... spoiled. He's everything the girls in school, including Savannah want. He plays football, and dreams of playing for the NFL. Magically, he is superior being the future leader, however, he never wanted to become the Clann leader. He just wants a normal life.

WHAT THE BOOK IS ABOUT:
** may contain spoilers ** The story begins upon the opening of another school year. Since fourth grade, Savannah Colbert was unfriended and considered as an outcast by her peers, including her best friend Tristan Coleman, the son of the Clann leader and the future leader of the Clann. Why? Because she is a half breed - half vampire, half Clann (or witch.) She was not allowed to use magic, and both species were very wary and afraid of her possible powers. But puberty and the development of Savannah's powers cannot be delayed any longer. With that, she undergoes physical, and yes, magical changes. She was once ugly ducking, ignored by the boys of her school, but because of the change, she became a swan. Boys seemed to be magnetized now, including Tristan. Also, when Savannah tried out for the dance team, she was one of the best, but she was rejected because the vampire council manipulated the results of the audition so as not to arouse suspicion that she is a vampire. Apparently, with her developing vampire powers, she will be the best in everything she does. So, she opted to be the team manager of the dance team. It happened that Tristan engaged in an illegal use of magic in public, and as a punishment, he cannot play football anymore. So he signed up to be on Savannah's group. There is an inexplicable pull between the two, and eventually they cannot control their attraction any more and they just had to be with each other. Despite the fact that they cannot be seen together in public, the two are happy by just being with each other. If only love were that simple! They went on secret dates. But then one day, shadows lurked outside school grounds. They follow Savannah and Tristan everywhere. Things get more complicated when Savannah felt the urge for Tristan's blood. With that, Savannah went home immediately, leaving Tristan alone. Then Tristan was kidnapped by the vampires, and now, Savannah has to pass a test in order to save Tristan's life, and maybe even her own. ** spoilers end **

LOVE:

The story is told in the alternate POVs of Savannah and Tristan. Now, those kinds of books are a bit confusing to read, but not this book. The alternate POVs worked. I also love the fact that this book made me cry. I don't usually get teary eyed just by reading novels, but this book is an exception. I felt what Savannah was feeling, and when she hurts, I hurt too. I'm just so happy that this book elicited such emotion in me.

NO LOVE:
I didn't like how Savannah became a doormat in the story. She was basically a slave in the book! She had no control over her own life. In her resides the powers of two powerful species, and she deserves a better treatment from everyone. 

FAVORITE CHARACTER:
I like Tristan's sister. Tristan has a very good relationship with her sister. I like that the two are very supportive and understanding of each other. While they may not always agree on what the other is doing or is planning to do, they are always trying to help each other.

FAVORITE LINE:

You've been off-limits to us ever since you and I got married in the fourth grade.

MUSINGS:

Honestly, I did not expect much from this book. I read this because I had nothing else to read. But this book actually surprised me. It was actually better than I expected. I can even say that I am looking forward to reading the second book, Covet.

DOODLES: 
no trailer yet

AUTHOR'S WEBSITE:
Melissa Darnell

SIMILAR READS: 
Almost to Die For by Tate Hallaway

CONTENT REVIEW:
profanity: mild
violence: mild
sexual content: mild
mature themes: mild
age recommendation: 13+ 

Thank you NetGalley for the ARC.

Cover Crazy #3

Cover Crazy is hosted by The Bookworms.

The point of this meme is to admire the art and beauty of a book’s design, so I’m going to post minimal words. It is up to you to write how you feel and what you like about it the way you’d like.

The Faerie Ring
by Kiki Hamilton

Debut novelist Kiki Hamilton takes readers from the gritty slums and glittering ballrooms of Victorian London to the beguiling but menacing Otherworld of the Fey in this spellbinding tale of romance, suspense, and danger.

The year is 1871, and Tiki has been making a home for herself and her family of orphans in a deserted hideaway adjoining Charing Cross Station in central London. Their only means of survival is by picking pockets. One December night, Tiki steals a ring, and sets off a chain of events that could lead to all-out war with the Fey. For the ring belongs to Queen Victoria, and it binds the rulers of England and the realm of Faerie to peace. With the ring missing, a rebel group of faeries hopes to break the treaty with dark magic and blood—Tiki’s blood.

Unbeknownst to Tiki, she is being watched—and protected—by Rieker, a fellow thief who suspects she is involved in the disappearance of the ring. Rieker has secrets of his own, and Tiki is not all that she appears to be. Her very existence haunts Prince Leopold, the Queen’s son, who is driven to know more about the mysterious mark that encircles her wrist.

Prince, pauper, and thief—all must work together to secure the treaty…

__________________________________

Pink is my favorite color. So the cover of The Faerie Ring attracts me like a moth to a flame. I also like the way there was falling snow on the cover; it adds a dramatic effect to it.

Survey: Tell me how my blog is doing!

I want to know more about YOU, my dear readers! I want to know what you like or don't like about my blog. I want you to tell me how to be a better YA book blogger.

So, please take a few moments to answer my survey.

CAVEAT:
I am very much aware that some choices in this survey evades (yes! evades!) the questions pertaining to them. This is intentional on my part. You are even free to call it stupid, crude, strange, and illogical. Trust me, I don't mind if you do because there is a purpose for this. I included such because some people prefer not to answer personal questions directly, such as where they are from, their sex, their age, or if they follow my blog. I RESPECT THAT. I, myself, want to be vague at times, and do not want to reveal anything online for my personal safety and security. It's my way of showing I care, especially for the minor readers. So if you prefer a serious and logical kind of survey, you may opt to choose the serious answer. On the other hand, if you're all for online security (or if you have the same weird sense of humor as me), choose the stupid, crude, strange and illogical answer instead.

Thank you in advance.

Click here to answer the survey

In My Mailbox #8

In My Mailbox is hosted by Kristi at The Story Siren.

These are the books I've gotten my hands on for the week.

PURCHASED:

Of Witches and Warlocks Series by Lacey Weatherford

Bloodlines by Richelle Mead

Legacy by Cayla Kluver

ARCs

Saving June by Hannah Harrington

Dancergirl by Carol M. Tanzman

Prized by Caragh M. O'Brien

The Night Circus by Erin Morgenstern

RECEIVED FROM THE AUTHOR FOR REVIEW:

Lastborn by Rachel Forde 

Immortal Embrace by Charlotte Blackwell 

Dragon Stones: Book One of the Dragon Stone Saga by Kristian Alva

Broken by Susan J. Bigelow

I am happy with my mailbox this week! I just finished the first two books the Witches and Warlocks series, and all I can say is swOOOOOn! I'm currently reading The Night Circus. Let's see if it is as good as others say it is. And of course, Bloodlines by Rachel Mead. I'm eager to read about the new hot male lead in this book. Will he beat Dimitri Belikov in the hotness department?

So, have you found the One?

The Fairytale Nerd is pleased to announce that 

RONA GO, 

author of the book 

NOT QUITE GODLY, 

has agreed to be a guest blogger! 

*loud cheering!*

One of Rona Go's favorite phrases is from a study of Dostoevsky's work by William Hamilton — Banished from the land of unity — inspiring her ideas of a protagonist as one who is heroic and dark at the same time and her preference for a villain as your regular villain but with a heart.

With a strong background in Philosophy and Theology, Rona Go envisions her writing career positioned in the general market with the elements of her Christian faith experience as her potent trademark.

If you guys want to stalk her, you may do so here...

Rona Go's Facebook Page

Twitter

So anyway, on September 1, 2011, Rona will be talking about 

THE ONE. 

Yes, the one...

about finding the one, about being with the one, and about letting the one slip through your fingers.

Honestly, this trailer made me stop and think. There's no special effects, just a beautiful blend of music and words.

NOT QUITE GODLY

by Rona Go

Would you rather hurt than feel nothing?

The prophecy was made flesh. Michaela is the devil incarnate. However, she chooses to hurt and love even without the idea of God. Half of the earth needs her. As she discovers she has an evil nature, she trains from being a supernumerary character to the prototype of a villain to vanquish her evil self along with the other half of the earth who wants her dead. Will she end up saving the day and finding true love?

Oh! I heard she's also having a giveaway!

September 1, 2011

Let's talk about THE ONE

with RONA GO. 

Book Recap: The Demon Kiss by Lacey Weatherford

Cover Inspection:
Better than the first!

SUMMARY (book description based on GoodReads):
Can someone else's past come back to bite you?

After being drained of nearly all the blood in her body, novice witch, Portia Mullins, wakes up to find that her warlock boyfriend, Vance Mangum, has fled in search of his demon father. Determined to keep him from facing the evil alone Portia follows after him, unknowingly setting herself on the path of a new adventure that will take her, Vance, and their coven over international borders, into a foreign place where they will discover that the black magic which awaits them is far worse than they ever imagined. Portia finds herself tangled up in a web of lies and deceit in another's quest for demonic power in the excitingly romantic second paranormal novel in the Of Witches and Warlocks Series, The Demon Kiss.

BOOK REPORT CARD:

Cover	2.0
Plot	3.0
Writing	3.5
Characters	4.0
Ending	3.5
Overall Rating	3.0 Very Good! (89% to 92%) * highest rating possible is 4.0

LOCATION/SETTING:
This books begins right where book one ends. Vance left Portia to look for his father. So Portia, together with her friends went after Vance in order to bring him home. The first chapters of the book takes place in Arizona, but the characters stayed most of the time in Mexico.

MAIN CHARACTERS:
Like in the first book, Portia is the narrator. Here, she becomes more familiar with her powers, and becomes more comfortable with her heritage. Her relationship with Vance is getting more serious, and the two are actually thinking long term already. As for Vance, he is still very much in love with Portia, however he is having a hard time controlling his evil side. It was especially difficult for him as he was constantly craving for Portia's blood. With this, he is having attacks/seizures as he is going through some kind of withdrawal.

WHAT THE BOOK IS ABOUT:
Portia wakes up with Vance missing. She found out that he went searching for his father. Because of the intense connection between Vance and Portia, it was physically painful to away from Vance. So she decided to look for him and bring him back home. With the help of Brad and Shelly, she found Vance. But she didn't get the reunion she desired as Vance wanted her to leave. But it was so hard for Vance because he can feel Portia's grief. Eventually, the two made up and made out. (In this book, their relationship becomes more serious, and they find themselves thinking of their future together already.) Anyway, Their small group continued their search for Vance's father, and found out that he is in Mexico, and is actually importing witches and warlocks in order to drain them of their powers. Vance is determined to stop, and kill his father, so the coven went to Mexico, where they spied on Vance's father. Then one day, Portia was taken by Vance's father to use her as bait to get Vance to join him. Now, Vance must save Portia as he cannot bear the thought of his father killing the girl he loves.

LOVE:
In the first book, I loved Portia and Vance's relationship. It was intense and sweet at the same time. Here, their relationship became deeper and more serious despite their age. I really don't want to give anything away. Their romance became bittersweet, and their coupling is still one of my favorites in the YA world.

NO LOVE:
Well... honestly, I didn't like the parts of the book where Vance was absent.

FAVORITE CHARACTER:
I actually liked Portia's father in this book. He does not react to teen relationships like a normal father would. He was very understanding (or maybe the proper word is helpless) of Vance and Portia's displays of affection. Nevertheless, I like him because I think that he is a unique character in the world of YA books.

FAVORITE LINE:

You never know what life is going to throw at you, so grab the one thing that makes you happier than anything else and run with it.

MUSINGS:
When I started this second book, I was secretly hoping it won't be like New Moon by Stephenie Meyer, where the love interest was absent for the most part of the book. It's good that I was not disappointed. Vance had sufficient airtime.

DOODLES:
Here's the author on an update on the series...

AUTHOR'S WEBSITE:
Of Witches & Warlocks Series 

SIMILAR READS:
The Secret Circle Series by LJ Smith

CONTENT REVIEW:
profanity: mild
violence: moderate
sexual content: moderate
mature themes: mild
age recommendation: 13+

Quote It Saturday #2

Quote It Saturday is hosted by Freda's Voice.

Add as many quotes as you wish, from whom ever you wish. It can even be lyrics to a song.

Just tell us who it is. Anonymous welcome too.

You never know what life is going to throw at you, so grab the one thing that makes you happier than anything else and run with it.

— The Demon Kiss by Lacey Weatherford

Thursday Tea #2

Thursday Tea is hosted by Birdbrain(ed) Book Blog.

To play along, all you need is some tea, a book, and the answers to these questions: 

What tea are you drinking (and do you like it)? 

What book are you reading (and do you like it)? 

Tell us a little about your tea and your book, and whether or not the two go together.

THE TEA:

Right now, I'm drinking my morning coffee. However, I'm not feeling well today, so yes... I'll probably be drinking Echinacea Tea later. There's a study that it boosts the body's immune system.

THE BOOK:

Right now, I am reading Legacy by Cayla Kluver. So far, I like it. What's interesting about this book is that it was written by the author when she was just fourteen years old. 

DO THEY GO TOGETHER?

Yes. The tea and the book Legacy go well together because the book has a historical fantasy feel to it. And for some strange reason, I do think that history and tea match. 

Trailer Thursday #9

Book Trailer Thursday is hosted by Quill Cafe.

Every Thursday we welcome everyone to join us in celebrating the awesomeness of book trailers.

To participate, on a Thursday you post an entry in your blog with an embedded book trailer of your choice with your thoughts and comments underneath. 

It can be a book you have read, want to read or have never even come across before.

The Night Circus

By Erin Morgenstern

The circus arrives without warning. No announcements precede it. It is simply there, when yesterday it was not. Within the black-and-white striped canvas tents is an utterly unique experience full of breathtaking amazements. It is called Le Cirque des Rêves, and it is only open at night.

But behind the scenes, a fierce competition is underway—a duel between two young magicians, Celia and Marco, who have been trained since childhood expressly for this purpose by their mercurial instructors. Unbeknownst to them, this is a game in which only one can be left standing, and the circus is but the stage for a remarkable battle of imagination and will. Despite themselves, however, Celia and Marco tumble headfirst into love—a deep, magical love that makes the lights flicker and the room grow warm whenever they so much as brush hands.

True love or not, the game must play out, and the fates of everyone involved, from the cast of extraordinary circus per­formers to the patrons, hang in the balance, suspended as precariously as the daring acrobats overhead.

Written in rich, seductive prose, this spell-casting novel is a feast for the senses and the heart.

Expected release September 13, 2011

Isn't the trailer beautiful? 

I have heard that this book is a cross between Harry Potter and Twilight. Yep, fantasy and magic, and forbidden lovers. It sounds just like the kind of book that I will be thinking for days after finishing it.

W...W...W... Wednesdays #1

This meme is hosted by Should Be Reading.

To play along, just answer the following three (3) questions…

• What are you currently reading?

• What did you recently finish reading?

• What do you think you’ll read next?

CURRENTLY READING:

Legacy by Cayla Kluver

DONE WITH:

The Trouble with Spells and 
The Demon Kiss by Lacey Weatherford

I read both books in one day. I loved every word.

UP NEXT:

Blood of the White Witch by Lacey Weatherford

Apparently, this is a Lacey Weatherford week for me. Although I'm currently reading Legacy, I plan to go back to Blood of the Witch after, I just need to finish Legacy to write a review. Anyway, there is just something about the series Of Witches and Warlocks. I am not a fan of witches, but this instantly became a favorite! I'm so excited for her upcoming book Castle in the Clouds!

"Waiting On" Wednesday #9

"Waiting On" Wednesday is a weekly event, hosted by Jill at Breaking the Spine, that spotlights upcoming releases that I'm eagerly anticipating.

Castle in the Clouds
by Lacey Weatherford
Expected publication: December 8th 2011

Reoccurring nightmares.
A one hundred and fifty year old curse.
A banished prince.
The mark of a seer.
The threat of a queen.
An unexpected attraction.
The path is set for one girl’s dangerous journey. Can love really conquer it all? 

_________________________________

I am currently reading Lacey Weatherford's Of Witches & Warlocks series, and it is just so freakin' good. The books are quite addicting, and I am not a fan of books about witches. That's why I am looking forward to Castle in the Clouds as this one involves faeries! 

Giveaway: The Iron Knight by Julie Kagawa (Pre-Order)

I know October is more than a month away. But that month is a very special month for me. For one, it's my birthday month, and secondly, it is the month when the IRON KNIGHT by Julie Kagawa will be released! (October 25, 2011 to be exact.) For this reason, I have decided to conduct an Iron Knight (pre-order) giveaway!

I love the Iron fey series, I cannot express how much. I have read them over and over and over again, and I just can't get enough of Ash, Meghan, Puck, and Grim, and I want people to get addicted to these books too! So, I will pre-order for the winner one paperback copy (or digital copy, whichever the winner prefers) of one of the most anticipated books of the year...

THE IRON KNIGHT

by Julie Kagawa

Ash, former prince of the Winter Court, gave up everything. His title, his home, even his vow of loyalty. All for a girl… and all for nothing.

Unless he can earn a soul.

To cold, emotionless faery prince Ash, love was a weakness for mortals and fools. His own love had died a horrible death, killing any gentler feelings the Winter prince might have had. Or so he thought.

Then Meghan Chase—a half human, half fey slip of a girl— smashed through his barricades, binding him to her irrevocably with his oath to be her knight. And when all of Faery nearly fell to the Iron fey, she severed their bond to save his life. Meghan is now the Iron Queen, ruler of a realm where no Winter or Summer fey can survive.

With the (unwelcome) company of his archrival, Summer Court prankster Puck, and the infuriating cait sith Grimalkin, Ash begins a journey he is bound to see through to its end— a quest to find a way to honor his solemn vow to stand by Meghan’s side.

To survive in the Iron realm, Ash must have a soul and a mortal body. But the tests he must face to earn these things are impossible. At least, no one has ever passed to tell the tale.

And then Ash learns something that changes everything. A truth that turns reality upside down, challenges his darkest beliefs and shows him that, sometimes, it takes more than courage to make the ultimate sacrifice.


Note that I will give the winner seventy-two hours to respond to my email informing him or her that he or she has won. The winner must accept, and must give me his or her correct mailing address. I will pre-order the book for the winner a day after the winner responds, but the book will be delivered to the winner AFTER the book's release on October 25. Please read my contest policy.

My review of the Iron Knight (ARC)

Ash is also My Book Boyfriend #1!

My reviews of the other books in the series:

Iron King

Iron Daughter

Iron Queen

Giveaway Rules:

Open to persons 13 years old or older.
Only one person per entry please. Those exceeding one will not be considered.
This giveaway is INTERNATIONAL, or as long as Book Depository delivers books to where you live for free. Please check here.
Contest ends on OCTOBER 1, 2011.


Requirements (a MUST):
- leave your email address so I will have a way of contacting you if you win (please double check)
- follow my blog The Fairytale Nerd (Google Friend Connect)
- follow me on Twitter

Extra entries:
- add me on FaceBook (+1)
- tweet about this awesome giveaway (+2)
Just tweet this:

Pls RT #Giveaway: Pre-order of THE IRON KNIGHT by Julie Kagawa at http://thefairytalenerd.blogspot.com/2011/08/giveaway-iron-knight-by-julie-kagawa.html

- blog about this giveaway (+3)


For a more detailed information on the contest rules, please read the Contest Policy.

Also, take a look at my other giveaway: Thin Air by Lynn Seresin. What are you waiting for? Fill out the form now! Good Luck!