Black Nailed Reviews

Manga Mondays: Art & Story

2012-02-27T23:04:00.000-05:00

Today's Topic: Art & Story ~ How does affect you?

To those avid Manga readers and Anime watchers, we stumble across a variety of styles in the art we see. We see our stereotypical to our old style of Manga/Anime. We like the stories for the stories, and we like the art for the art. I sound kind of redundant right? It probably doesn't make much sense to you, does it?

What I mean by those two statements is that we appreciate those Mangas for its art and story line. Those are essentially what draws people into it. However, we see those stories with just the terrible plot lines with the super amazing art and vis versa, like I had explained Here (Style ~ Make or Break a Manga/Anime?) Basically, it is the same principles applied here. However, in this post, I want to focus on the essential question of whether the art and story affect your manga experience.

Well, to be honest, it should and shouldn't affect you.

Why you ask? Well, here's my reasons why:

~~Should Affect You~~

Art: Art is basically the whole premise of any animations and comics, including Manga and Animes. Essentially, if something is pleasant to the eyes, whether it is the background, character designs, or movement, we will watch it, absorb it, and enjoy it. We are affected by the art because we enjoy it in some way, shape, or form. The art in a Manga or Anime (Gonna initial that as MoA) is important to keep us entertained.

Story: Okay, so you've got your art. All good, you can make a MoA. BUT HOLD IT RIGHT THERE! Obviously, you will bore the heck out of every single person if you just put pretty art up without a meaning. Story is important whether you are drawing a comic or just a regular picture. Every picture tells a story, and as artists, they need to convey that story to the audience through the picture.

Ask yourself: Why is he mad about that? What caused the problem? What led them to become lost? How will they resolve the fighting and conflict?

We answer these questions through the story that is conveyed in the picture: Oh, I see why he is upset. Now I understand why she is acting this way. That's why he looked so pissed off.

The story is a such a key part of any MoA that you basically can't even have anything of a book without one.

~~Shouldn't Affect You/Isn't Used Well/HOLYCRAPWHY!?~~

Art: Okay, so bad art will always be bad art. However, just because one art isn't as mainstream as another doesn't mean it is bad. There are a lot of art styles that are non-mainstream that are wonderful and amazing to look at. However, like I said, bad art will always be bad art. If the art is mixed with a super interesting plot line, I would definitely suggest giving the MoA a chance. Yet, keep in mind that if it has a bad story line and bad art, then... Well.. You know... >.> *looks at MoA dump pile*...

Story: THIS PART ISN'T ABOUT HOW THE STORY "DOESN'T AFFECT YOUR EXPERIENCE:" THIS IS Why Story Is So Important In MoAs!! Story matters. I DON'T GIVE A CRUDE IF YOU THINK THAT THERE IS A STORY BEHIND ALL THE STUPID SCENES, ESPECIALLY IN DRAGON BALL Z WHERE IT TAKES FREAKING SEASONS TO UNLEASH ONE ATTACK

THAT DOES ABSOLUTELY NOTHING!!

(Disclaimer: I love Dragon Ball Z. Please do not think that I hate it, but that statement is the truth.) I mean, Dragon Ball Z does have a plot line, but every episode or chapter is filled with talking, and then the next BAJILLION chapters are filled with convoluted insults or fighting that is so super-human and wayyy too god-like for a fantasy/fiction story. It makes me epicly /facepalm.

So, with that, I'd like to ask you for a favor:

For those who have read Manga or watched Anime with that art that you just hate or dislike with a fiery passion, please, please, not just for my sake but for the Mangaka's sake, to read the story or watch the episode. I know it will be difficult, especially if the art really sucks in your opinion, universally, or otherwise, but you never and may never know how much you will fall in love with that story and just keep reading it again and again.

Well, even if you don't complete my favor, I'm glad you could join me for this Monday's Feature. If you have any topics you want to discuss on this feature, feel free to leave a comment below and ask a question I can elaborate on (Or multiples if you wish)!

Inked with Brilliance and Love,

Sara

Manga Review: Mephistos

2012-02-27T21:13:00.000-05:00

Meet Maria & Meths

Title: Mephistos [Here Be Demons series]
Artist: Naniiebim [Deviant Account]
Genre: Comedy, Romance, Drama, Supernatural
Volumes (Thus far): 3
Buy them HERE
Read Sample HERE
Rating:

Summary: What do you do when you find yourself living next to an unusual neighbor?

Review: So, my mind was blown by this manga. Seriously, Naniiebim is a genius.

Collection of Books of Mephistos & Peeks at
the contents inside! :D
ORDER THOSE MARIA AND METHS PINS NOW!!

Basically, this story is about a woman, Maria and a man, Mephistos (Meths)... who happens to have a tail. Their first encounter is struck with a frozen chicken, and both characters are thrust into this unusual relationship between a woman and a demon. After Maria had met Meths, she begins to encounter a strange black shadow that follows her around, not understanding what is going on. The story progresses at a steady pace and keeps the reader wanting more. Naniiebim's intriguing story seriously is making me save up money for her books (I wish I had a job!!.. ). The story isn't a typical romance or supernatural drama at all. From page one, I have always wondered about Maria's character, especially the first page! (NO SPOILERS. GO READ IT!!) The use of panels (We'll talk about that in a few) and the expressions of the characters are excellently displayed and keep the flow of the story moving, especially with Naniiebim's unique style.

Characters:

Maria and opening to Chapter 6

Maria: You know what I love about Maria? She looks like a normal woman. No, that is not at all bad. What I mean by normal is the comparison between mainstream manga and Naniiebim's artistic interpretation of Maria. Maria isn't that large eyed "woman" who looks like a 14 year-old girl; She looks like an average woman, who was living a peaceful life. Maria in the beginning and later on are how any person would react to situations (I.E. when she first sees Meths). I love Maria because 1 - She's my own definition of beautiful. Her character design is simple yet gorgeous, especially her eyes and hair. (Black hair FTW!) 2 - Her character is somewhat mysterious. From page one, like I said in the Review, Maria interests me. At first, I was wondering what she was looking at and what she was doing before hand and if it had anything to do with what is happening to her now (Maybe I am over analyzing it.. I tend to do that...) However, Maria is a perfect female protagonist and isn't some angsty woman on the edge because of love or something cliche. She's just normal, and to me, when someone or something is normal, there is totally another layer beneath he/she or it.

Meths & Maria

Meths: Beautiful character. Maria's 0.05 evaluation of Meths had be laughing my butt off. Meths' personality is totally the proverb "Don't judge a book by its cover." That is exactly what happened; Meths' personality is rather endearing, funny, and adorable. His facial expressions fit his character, and his character design is beautiful. I love the part (SPOILER ALERT) after Maria had grabbed his tail and he kept asking her what he say, when he broke down, I nearly peed myself from laughter. My stomach hurt for a good 30 minutes. XD It was especially worse because I kept reading it and seeing his expressions. (SPOILER ENDS) Meths has a unique personality compared to his protagonist counterpart, Maria, which balances the calmness with the hyperactive-ness that is Meths. Naniiebim was genius in incorporating two some-what contrasting personalities between the two protagonist. I feel that if Meths did follow the book with his personality matching his physical look, then Meths just wouldn't be as great of a character.

Panel Planning and Art Uniquity: Generally, I do not add this to my reviews when I do manga or anime, but I slightly mention them to support the claims I make. However, because Naniiebim is somewhat of a developing Mangaka, I wanted to incorporate this.
First, panel planning and viewpoints = GENIUS. Naniiebim uses unique perspectives (I love her use of the Fish-eye VP) that creates an interesting scenery in a possibly boring panel if she had not used that unique perspective. Another point that leads to is panel planning which is actually a very good aspect of any manga. Naniiebim uses panels in a simplistic way, but within every panel, it creates a build-up and conclusion, even when she might not mean to (No idea what she is thinking, but she is very clever and a genius). This build-up creates such a huge emotion in the reader that they just desire more with a passion. Seriously, I was always so excited when I saw she had added a new page.

Maria & Meths :D

One thing that scared me a little bit was Naniiebim's style. I am so used to the finished lines in mangas, pictures, or even in my own art. (I'm a perfectionist.. /lesigh...) It used to bother me a lot when I would see unfinished lines in pictures. However, Naniiebim's style just slapped me outta that. Seriously, this art is so expressful and fluid that it literally flows the manga together.

Overall: Entirely, I give Mephistos a 4/4 polishes. It's story line is well paced, and its art is beyond expression of creativity and uniqueness. Naniiebim's creative use to character expressions, gestures, and realism-meets-fantasy & fantasy-meets-realism encounters is magnificent. I really can't describe how much I wish I could buy all of Naniiebim's art work and books (Jellyfish Prince is sooo adorable!). Sadly, I am too poor... i need a job Hmm. What was that? ._.

Mephistos ~ Maria and Meths

P.S. I'd like to give a special thanks to Naniiebim who allowed me to use the art seen in this review and also allowing me to write this review about her Manga. Naniiebim, I wish you great success and you will be seeing me order your books and art very soon! Keep on drawing!

Inked with Brilliance and Love,
Sara

Anime Review: Hetalia - Axis Powers (APH)

2012-02-24T20:08:00.000-05:00

Background to Foreground: Japan, Germany, Italy

Title: Axis Powers Hetalia
Original Artist: Hidekaz Himaruya
Episodes: 52
Genre: Seinen, Historical, Comedy (This comedy is allegory for racial stereotypes. If you do not laugh at things like this, then watch Hetalia because it will change your mind. DIDN'T SEE THAT COMING, DIDCHAYA!?)
Anime: With Subtitles ~ With English Dub (Highly recommend) Also, currently on Netflix [Epi. 1-24, maybe 26, English dubbed]
Rating:

Synopsis: Think of it like WWII, except every country is a pretty boy instead. A hilariously stereotypical pretty boy. America loves burgers, Russia is into the vodka, and China has pandas and a Wok.
It is centered mostly around Italy, who has both a North and South character. The Hetaria portion of the name is probably mocking Italy, as Hetare means 'Useless'

Review: OHMYGODINEVERKNEWLEARNINGHISTORYCOULDBETHISMUCHFUN! Holy crap, this show blew my mind. Seriously, it's become one of my all time favorites and for the last two-three weeks I've been watching and obsessing over it non-stop. All the characters and the stories are so awesome and creative. And if you know cultural stereotypes for any country, then you will laugh your pants off watching this show.

Left to Right: Japan, [North] Italy, Germany, Russia, England,
America, France, and China

Basically, this story follows the shenanigans of the Axis Powers and Allied Forces of WWII. Everything you've known about history has completely been hilari-fied (Is that a word? OHWELLNOWITIS). Axis Powers: Hetalia (APH) is a genius story following Italy, a pasta-loving and surrendering fool who allies himself with ever-stern and battle-fierce Germany and stoic, silent, and genius Japan to create the Axis Powers of the world. They fight ferociously with the Allied Forces of loud-and-hero-wannabe and hamburger-lover America, arrogant and irritable England, yandere and "evil" Russia, naive and combat-master China, and perverted and molesty France.

Background to Foreground:
Russia, America, China, France & England

The main canon of the story is honestly unknown. Really though, it focuses on the countries' roles during WWI (briefly) and WWII. When episodes focus on character arcs, they generally hit the past and move to different places around the world (I.E. Japan's gardens when Italy is bothering him, or Germany's house when Italy is bothering Germany, or Germany's yard with Japan and Japan's cat and Italy bothering them both... Recurring theme here anyone?)

However, this story doesn't restrict itself completely to just the Axis Powers or the Allied Forces; it also explores other outlaying countries around the main 8. Characters such as Austria, Hungary, and Switzerland make appearances with our main characters and continue to pack on both the history and hilarity of APH. Other specific places, such as Hong Kong, Greece, and Italy's brother, South Italy, Romano, make appearances as well. Every character in this story is awesome and freaking cool as cool as possibly get.

Characters:

Background to Foreground:
North Italy, Germany, & Japan

*North Italy: Oh my god. Italy makes me pee myself from laughter. He's a mega-super-boss-of-all-bosses! He's so stupid, and he gets himself in so much trouble, it makes me crack up into tears. Italy's stereotypes are definite in his character and demeanor.

*Germany: Seriously, Germany has made me like Germany a lot more... That sounds a bit redundant, but WHATEVER. IT'S COOL CAUSE IT'S HETALIA! But anyways, Germany is awesome, especially when he is yelling at Italy because of his gestures and facial expressions.

*Japan: YEAH, IT'S THE BAMF OF ALL COUNTRIES! LEMME GET A WOOT-WOOT! (wootwoot!) I love Japan's demeanor and speech within the episodes, and his reactions to certain things (I.E. Italy Hugging him) is hilarious. I could watch that scene for HOURS and never get tired of it. He's the best. He's even got a samurai sword. That just PROVES the fact that he is pimping and awesome.

*America: You want the stereotypical American? Well, you've found him. America is in love with hamburgers and milkshakes and attempts to ask France, Japan, and China their ways of staying thin (all the while making fun of their stereotypes). His loud and "I-Want-To-Be-The-Hero!" actions are totally everything that America is made of, especially with the excuse of "Let's spread democracy!" on hand. Lawl. You go America! >:D

*England: England is everything you could ask for in an... English man. You've got the funny eyebrows, always trying to be right, and the awesome accent (English VA). He's pretty freaking cool, and he became one of my favorites easily when he came on the screen!

*Russia: OH MY GOD! When Russia does his evil face, I nearly pooped myself from laughter. (Sorry that's gross but it's true... okay not really, but still!) Russia is so brawny and giant, and he is so freaking awesome. He's silent but DEFINITELY deadly.

Left to Right: Russia, China, America,
England, & France

*China: Represent my Chinese friends! I love China and will always love China because I am a bit Chinese. And this goes without saying, but China deserves it: BAMF TO THE MAX! China's got the typical kung-fu skills and beats people with a Wok and ladle. If you don't know what a Wok is, then look it up and you will probably laugh.

*France: This pervert made me want to go back into French class. He's everything that a French guy might be and stereotypically is: Bi, flashy, flamboyant, and passionate. Yep, he's everything right there. France is just a pimp and a boss at being.... well... French. Je t'aime, France. Je t'aime beaucoup.

Art and Transition/Movement:

So, I love the art in APH. All the characters are super cute and so close to their "What would a (Insert Nationality Here) look like?" Their gestures and speech are hilarious and continue to entertain the audience in a spectacular way.

Voice Acting:

Okay, so I don't know about the Japanese voice acting, but the English voice acting....

My mind.

It's so awesome with their accents that makes it sound more... authentic, for the lack of a better word. All the nations are so well captured with their accents, and their voice acting fits nearly all of the characters I have seen. I don't think I could have found any better voice acting for any of these characters than the ones they had already found. Italy's fast speech is so perfect, and Japan's heavy "L = R" accent is well done. Germany's heavy "W = V" accent and emphasis on consonants is superb, and England's English accent is an accent I wish I had... /sigh... Nearly every nationality's voice is grand and amazing, and I say, kudos to you Funimation for making an awesome show.

Overall:

Want me to be completely honest? I'd give more than 4 polishes for APH if I could. That is legitimate. APH is a great comedical and historical Anime that I'd recommend to anyone, whether he/she liked history or not. APH really... Just read the [de]motivational poster below and you'll understand how I feel about Hetalia...

Inked with Brilliance and Love,

Sara

Administrator's Note An Apology Well Deserved

2012-02-20T10:46:00.000-05:00

Hello, everyone!

This is Alisha here and I know that I have been a rarity here at BNR in the pass two months. I want to extend a huge apology to all of our readers and everyone else in the blog community. It has been hard to get some time to blog and publish reviews and make features I have been wanting to start this year. I kick myself everyday because I am not able to be on here and spend time with you all.

Since the time has passed and I can not do much to make up for the time lost. I have told myself that I need to change my schedule and my priorities so I can be on here each week and make sure we are posting what our readers are waiting for.

Starting today, each month there will be two interviews and at least one giveaway! Along with those, we will have Sara's Manga Mondays and some features I have been wanting to get started doing. I can not say when mine will start but we will continue to have Sara's Manga Mondays for now.

I have just taken to requested reviews and sent out a request for a certain ARC I've been wanting. I can not say how sorry I am for being absent from the blog community and from BNR, it's been hell and back over here. But, I promise that I will be here from now on and BNR will be better than before.

I hope you will join us for the ride. ♥

Peace and Fangs,
Alisha

Manga Mondays: The End for Bleach

2012-02-13T20:59:00.001-05:00

The End for Bleach?!!?

WARNING: THERE ARE POSSIBLE SPOILERS OF BLEACH BELOW. YEAH, SPOILERS. SO IF YOU DON'T WANNA KNOW AND YOU HAVEN'T READ OR WATCHED BLEACH, GO WATCH THE CANON EPISODES AND READ THE MANGA TO KNOW WHAT IS GOING ON. YOU DON'T WANT TO MISS OUT. SO YOU HAVE BEEN WARNED... SPOILERS BELOW!

I wish it was Monday last Wednesday when I saw the news and the new chapter on Mangahere.com. Seriously, I was in total shock.

I'm a huge Bleach fan. Surprisingly, my totally-closet-nerd brother introduced me to Bleach when he started watching the Anime when it first came out. For me, I decided to read the Manga, considering I had begun to get into Manga then too. I instantly fell in love with nearly all the characters and love the Manga Arcs (the Anime fillers can all burn in a ditch).

But speculation has come around to say:

Bleach is ending!!

Yep, the final arc has supposedly arrived.

However, is it really ending?

On most forums I've looked up on, considering I spent two hours trying to figure out if Bleach is really ending for sure, Kubo Tite has said that Bleach will go on for another 10 years. (Google Kubo Tite interview end, and you'll see a lot of the same information on Bleach forums, Bleach Tumblrs, etc.etc.allBleachetc.) Seriously, I was extremely relieved. However, I am still confused by the fact that the newest chapter is called "The Final Arc." Well, I guess we'll see when it ends.

However, what are we going to be expecting in this new and final arc!?

Many fans and myself have taken information from Kubo Tite's interviews at Jump Fiesta and know that the "mysterious" Royal Guard of Seireitei is supposed to appear! EEGAD!!! Not only the speculated Royal Guard but also more... QUINCIES!! Yep. More Ishidas. <3 And if you're a girl like me, you'll be glad if there are more Ishidas around... <3 Also, as seen near the end of the Substitute Shinigami (SS) Arc, our favorite Shinigami Captains and Vice-Captains have received many make-overs in character design. Even the opening pages of Chapter 480, the beginning of the Final Arc, we see Mayuri in his new design. As the reader flips through the chapter, we see two new faces, both Shinigami and investigating Karakura town. However, they are attacked by multiple giant Hollows, and thankfully, at the end, Ichigo dives right into the battle.

What can we really expect from Bleach though? Will this be the final arc for sure? Or is there really going to be another 10 years of Bleach for us fanatics to hold on to?

Honestly, I'd like more Bleach, but others might not think so. Some say it should have ended at the Arrancar Arc with the exile/death of Aizen, but with the flood of Japanese fans begging for more during the Arrancar Arc, Kubo Tite continued it and had continued it to the SS Arc. I feel that the SS Arc was fairly well written, however it also felt like it was completely rushed compared to all the other Arcs.(Basically, I took from it as a look at the whole SS BS that I thought was lame in the first place and felt that Ichigo should be looked at as an equal with the Shinigami. But you know, I'm not bitter....)

Kubo Tite had reassured that in the following years, Bleach will be more exciting and engaging for the audience. I'm super excited!

Bleach = Amazing.

Opening cover page of the Final Arc
We see Ichigo in his new Fullbring/Shinigami outfit as well as Zangetsu <3
In the background, there are the silhouettes of the Quincies. Can't wait for their appearance!

Read the first chapter of the Final Arc Here!

And let me know what you think:

Should Bleach really end here? Or continue for another 10 years? What's your opinion of Bleach in generally , the SS Arc, or your expectations for this new and "Final" Arc?

Inked with Brilliance and Love,

Sara

Manga Mondays: What's wrong with it?

2012-02-06T18:41:00.000-05:00

So.. For today's question, which I probably should have addressed way back then, is:

Why don't people like Manga? What's wrong with it?

I can probably already answer the question for you: Basically, people are so wrapped up in mainstream manga and anime that they can't get it out of their FREAKING mindset that not every single one is like that.

This kind of goes back to my Manga style post. Style is so important in making an impact in our ideal of manga; it's crazy knowing how much it affects our standard. So lemme ask you, what is your standard of manga/anime? If you like it, why? If you don't, why not?

Don't gimme that crud that it's "lazy and they don't have the talent for realistic art, blahblahblah." Don't. Seriously, it's getting old. I hear it enough from people who haven't even seen amazingly well-drawn manga/anime. I hear it enough from the people in my art club. I'm not saying that I am the epitome of perfection of manga/anime; I'm just an artist who draws it. I can't say I am the best.

Another point that people could make is the convoluted plot lines in ~~every~~ single manga. LEMME TELL YOU SOMETHING, BUSTER! NOT EVERY MANGA HAS A STUPID SHOUNEN PLOT LINE OF "FRIENDSHIP IS THE BEST AND THE KEY TO WINNNING" OR "I WILL GET STRONGER TO DEFEAT YOU, RAWRRRRR!!" OR THAT STUPID AND FLOWERY SHOUJO PLOT LINE OF "AMG, IT IZ LUV @ FURST SIGHT, BLEHHH!" OR "I WILL MAKE THIS BOY MY HUSBAND AND I WILL LOVE HIM EVEN THOUGH I LOOK LIKE I'M 12 YEARS OLD AND HE LOOKS 20!!"... *heaves*...

Anyways, my point is that most (not saying all) critics of Manga/Anime only see the mainstream plot lines and designs that make it seem "standard" and if you are not in the standard, then you are not a Mangaka.

I AM HERE TO TELL YOU THAT IS A BIG, FAT, ENORMOUS, ELEPHANT-SIZED LIE!

I've seen excellent and extravagant artists all around, especially on DeviantArt to tell YOU, my friend, that drawing manga and anime doesn't force you to be in the standard or the main stream. What's fantastic, and I've said this before, is the uniqueness of Manga. It is a beautiful and wonderful medium, and nearly, some pictures just take my breath away. An artist's details and designs make the characters and scenery come to life. My love and adoration of all things Manga and Anime has given me a new respect for the Mangakas and artists that arise in our society. They are criticized for their style and medium, however, they do not back down and continue to draw their passions.

So to the readers reading this ranting of mine that is completely subjective, I ask you:

Can you accept this style? Can you embrace it with the love that you have shown other pieces of work?

We all start somewhere. For us Manga and Anime artists, this is our start.

Inked with Brilliance and Love,

Sara.

P.S. I'm sorry this is just a huge rant. I had to get it off my chest. And I also apologize that this isn't really a feature. I'll do a better feature next Monday. Today was just a crazy day. ;_;

Manga Mondays: Style ~ Make or Break?

2012-01-30T20:04:00.000-05:00

So today's question might get a little confusing just by reading the title. Basically, what I'm asking is this:

Does a Mangaka's [A Manga artist] style make or break a good manga?

Now let's think about this: I'd have to say yes and no. To be honest, a lot of mainstream otakus hate the old style. However, would our ideal of manga be alive today if it were not for the old style of manga? No, our contemporary manga style wouldn't exist without the influence of old manga. Manga evolves from manga. Other mangas are created from influence by other mangas. Every mangaka and wanna-be mangaka study each other. We grow from each other, and that's what makes this style so unique.

So back to the topic. Here's why I am on the fence for this.

Let's look at Basara, which you can read [Here]. For anyone who wants to be a Mangaka or just anyone who wants to read a fantastic action-packed and romantic story, read Basara. Written by Yumi Tamura, the original serialization of this manga in Betsucomi magazine was from September of 1990 to June of 1998. As you can probably tell and/or if you clicked the link, this is an old-styled manga. I was completely turned off by the drawings. I am so used to mangas like One Piece (which is awesome, MONKEY D LUFFY<3), Fairy Tail (NATSU DRAGONEELLLLLL FOR THE WINNNN!), and Bleach (FUGG YEAH, GETTIN' IT IN, ICHIGO KUROSAKI!) that the style just didn't fit my eyes.

However, Basara is a single reason why I do not discriminate style within a manga anymore. This story was so exceptionally written and executed that I literally cried for hours during and after I finished this story. The dramatic irony of the reader and character development and uniqueness between them can create such a flood of emotions within the reader that they just don't care what style is used; WE JUST WANT TO KNOW WHAT HAPPENS NEXT! I seriously left my computer, sat on my bed, and contemplated the story and the characters as I drew my own characters. There is so many things to think about within this story. There are constant themes that are evident within every chapter, and seriously, I didn't do homework for the next week except for at school. I would hop onto my computer and immediately start reading this story. I can understand why people would be put off at first (I even said I experienced that), yet this story is simply the epitome of completely planned and well thought-out story telling. The mangaka leaves you wanting more after every chapter. Seriously, if you are reading this, go read Basara. You will fall in love with every character, every story, and every line. I absolutely love it, and it is one of my favorites. (BTW, if I was reviewing it, I'd give it 4/4 polishes.)

Okay, there is also why I said no.

This time, let's look at the style and how it affects the story with...

L-DK.... You can read it here...

Okay, once you click it, it isn't such a bad style, right? Well, yeah it's not bad. It's pretty mainstream as seen with the pretty and sparkling eyes on a girl and the boy looks a little girlie and the whole shee-bang.

However, this is one of those stories that, just because the art is great, doesn't mean the story is equally great. Yeah, I know that Basara and L-DK are two different genres. But you know what they both have and execute? Love. Yeah, the fugging theme of romance. However, I'm not comparing the genres in this case; I'm comparing the execution of the story and art. You can't have a manga without a good story, and you can't have a manga without good art.

Anyways, L-DK has good art for being mainstream. It's proportions are intact, and facial expressions are well expressed. However, this manga lacks what a manga should have: A good and solid plot-line. It takes 30 fugging chapters just to reach an actual and legit romance between these two idiots. I swear, I wanted to slam my monitor at the wall. The progression was slow, and about half way through, I ask myself, "WHY AM I READING THIS!?" Well, I actually just wanted to know what happened and what the heck was bothering the main male protagonist. Okay, so yes Basara had a bit of a slow romance, however in between all the romance, there was legit events happening that seriously affected the entire story. It had serious implications when something would happen within the story, whether it is about the main plot or a character's story. That is why Basara's art doesn't break the entire manga. You weren't just left in some random way-lay of a story, and then suddenly, the story goes, "Whoops! Let's go back to the main story and quickly end this little arc [if you can even call it that!] in 3 fugging pages!" (I'm not bitter...) But that's what it felt like in L-DK. Don't get me wrong; the story isn't entirely bad, but the reasoning behind this story is so convoluted; I am still wondering how I even remotely liked it or somewhat finished it til the latest chapter.

So to conclude my ranting, I'd just like to say that the story and art make up a manga; obviously, you can't have one without the other. However, the quality of the art does not entirely ruin a manga. Most people who recommend manga do not really judge on the art but rather the story. The intricacy, development, and characters within a manga's story really keeps the reader wanting to buy the volumes and enjoy the manga.

If you don't believe me, go read Basara and L-DK. You will see how convoluted and cliche L-DK's story is that you might gouge your eyes out and see that Basara is everything that you could really want in an action/adventure and romance manga. Or it might be vis versa.

Inked with Brilliance and Love,

Sara

Manga Mondays - Is Anime/Manga style lazy?

2012-01-23T18:18:00.000-05:00

Hey everyone. Sorry for last week and not doing a MM feature. Today's feature is a very controversial topic among art students, art critics, and art schools. The big question is:

Click and look at the
details in both the background
and character design.
Notice different elements of
art [I list that later in the
blog post]

Is the Anime/Manga style lazy?

So let's take a moment to really know what Anime and Manga is. In a nutshell, it is basically a simplified version of realism. You can disagree with me on this by stating that "Anime and Manga is for people who can't draw realistic people, objects, etc." However, I stand firmly in my belief that it is not lazy; the styles just differ. I understand why it can be frowned upon. We'll look at both why it isn't a lazy style and why it is a lazy style at the same time.

Although people claim that shounen
has less design than shoujo,
click this picture and feel WRONG.

Let's take for example two different artists. We've got Nakamura Yoshiki's Skip Beat! and Kishimoto Masashi's Naruto, two very popular mangas, both expressed in different anime shows. (one is more mainstream, aka Naruto, while one is low-key popular, aka Skip Beat!)

Simplistic design. However
look at the background
and proportions of
our friend, Naruto.

Styles are very different from realistic art. However, if you look at both artist's work, the use of correct anatomy (Can be seen in Naruto's action sequences and lack of character "stiffness"), realism in the backgrounds or even in the hair (I.E. SB!), or in the details of the characters (in both). I believe these are two good mangas to seriously look at because their styles differ so much. Yet, both mangas are not lazy at all. Try to draw any of those characters, backgrounds, and designs without looking at them within the book. It's difficult, and I have/am enduring the difficulties of drawing manga. While the designs may be more simplified or exaggerated to a certain extent (I will be referring to this later on...), both artists achieve a semi-realistic feel in their stories. Thus, this proves that manga is not lazy.

LOOK AT THAT SEXY MAN THUR!

However, we always have those who give manga a bad name. Now, I am not trying to be mean or rude to the artist. They have their own style, that's good. Yet, this is why people give manga a bad name:

Nothing may seem wrong with this picture... At first. Notice the features: The barely-there nose, too small mouth, large EXAGGERATED eyes which are disproportional to a girl that looks the age of 14-15, and too big of hair.

So I may seem mean but it's only the truth. Artists and critics alike all see manga as that! But that's not how every manga artist is. I am criticized in my art club because I draw manga. "Manga isn't a real style." Yes. It. Is. I cannot tell you how peeved I get when people say that. They only see that (the picture above) and automatically assume that all manga/anime artists draw like that, which isn't true.

I'm not trying to point out that we can't be cartoonish; this is a cartoon-derived style. However, there is a fine line between cartoonish and too exaggerated.

Getting the correct proportions (both people and objects/backgrounds), understanding anatomy and movement, and basic artistic knowledge (such as shading, light-direction, and color balance) is the foundation of any artist. Manga artists are exactly the same. If you Google, "how to draw better manga," or any help on how to draw anything "manga," most people, even myself, will say to study real life. Manga comes right from realism, but it is a simplified and unique style created by the artist. No one can take that creativity or uniqueness that the artist creates, whether you are a painter, photographer, or graphic designer.

God, I freaking love this Manga and Anime..
Sengoku Basara... YEAH MASAMUNE DATE AND
YUKIMURA SANADA!! <3

To put it simply, I do not agree that manga is a lazy style. It is the matter of the artist and their style that either proves or disregards that misconception of Manga/Anime art. So slap open a manga book or flip on the anime channel and get to reading/watching!

Inked with Brilliance and Love,

Sara

Anime Review: Soul Eater by Atsushi Okubo

2012-01-22T18:49:00.002-05:00

Meet the Team:
Left to Right: Maka, Liz (top), Patty (Bottom), Death the Kid "Kid",
Tsubaki, Black Star, & Soul "Soul Eater" Evans

Title: Soul Eater
Original Artist: Atsushi Okubo
Episodes: 51
Genre: Action, Comedy, Fantasy, Shounen, Supernatural
Manga: Yes [Here]; Watch [Here]
Rating:

Summary:

Set at the "Death Weapon Meister Academy," the series revolves around three teams consisting of a weapon meister and (at least one) human weapon. Trying to make the latter a "Death Scythe" and thus fit for use by the academy's headmaster, Shinigami (better known as Death), they must collect the souls of 99 evil humans and one witch.

Review:

Yeah shoot me: I didn't read the Manga first like any normal Otaku. But I was totally done with the rest of my shows on Netflix ('cept for Honey and Clover) and had to watch something. Soul Eater was the choice. It's received both criticism and praise for its artwork and plot line. Soul Eater's easy plot line was quick to catch on, even with its constant perspective changes in the first episode. Basically, the story is about a team of three different people who all have a certain weapon, certain personality, and certain pasts that keep the audience interested in each. Nearly every character has some sort of dilemma in them, some sort of problem, that haunts them. All the characters are interesting and compliment this crazy and intense action packed story. This is a real shounen, sticking to the traditional standards. However, I've only seen a couple episodes. So far, I like it. However, you know what makes a good manga/anime, well really any, any story? Theming. THEMES PEOPLE. The theme of this story is about getting stronger and being better, in more ways than physically. Each character wants to achieve something, whether it is social love or power.

Theming = GENIUS.

Characters:

3 main Meisters (aka the ones who control/create the weapons):
Left to right: Black Star, Maka, and Death the Kid (AKA "Kid")

Maka Albarn: A very earnest and temperamental girl, Maka is the main female protagonist of the series. She fits the main theme of this entire story from episode one and so forth. She wants to surpass the excellence of her mother, whom she takes after as a prodigy Meister, and her father, Spirit (AKA Death Scythe). The theming from Maka makes her a real [female] heroine. She knows the reality of trying to get stronger, which is safe to say, not easy. Maka's strong will and partnership with Soul [Eater] create an awesome protagonist pair.

Soul "Soul Eater" Evans: A laid back and "cool" (he tends to say this many, many times to explain his situation), he is always butting heads with Maka about random, little things. However, he is extremely loyal to his Meister and willing to risk his life for her and his friends. Soul is probably my favorite character, besides Kid, of course! But Soul continues to fulfill the entire theme of SE: Getting stronger. He wants to be the best Death Scythe ever created and helps Maka fulfill her dreams as well.

Black Star: Not gonna lie, I don't really like Black Star. He's funny and has cool moves, but I have yet to really like him. Yet, his character is your typical shounen "hero": Arrogant, egotistical, and wants to become stronger and better than everyone else. He has a BROMANCE with Soul, which is totally and non-inconspicuous in Episode 6 (HILARIOUS BTW!). But this dislike was like for Gin Ichimaru from Bleach.... I ended up in love with Gin. I can't wait to see Black Star much later and getting more strength.

Left to Right:
Patty, Liz, Kid, Soul, Maka, Black Star, & Tsubaki

Tsubaki Nakatsukasa: The weapon for Black Star, Tsubaki can transform into several different ninja-esque weaponry. She is generally calm and caring, contrasting deeply with Black Star's definitely-not-level thinking. She's the brains behind Black Star's operation and continues to be an asset in his battles. She helps Black Star frequently and supports his character to reach his potential.

Death the Kid "Kid": A perfectionist at heart (Can see it through his "IT'S NOT SYMMETRICAL" break downs...), Kid is the son of the God of Death, the headmaster of DWMA. He joins the academy official in Episode 6 and immediately jumps into a fight with Soul and Black Star. With a generally chill demeanor and fond of all things symmetrical (Talk about OCD...), he can snap when something isn't symmetrical (If it's out of battle, he breaks down on the floor and wallows in intense self-pity. If it's in battle, he snaps. Literally. He just kicks arse...) Kid's the mega comic relief of the group and really gets me laughing. (seriously, my dad thought I was going insane while I laughed..)

The Thompson Sisters (Liz & Patty): The twin handguns for the Meister, Kid. Their contrasting personalities create a realistic partnership between polar opposites and basically the epitome of prodigious God of Death (Kid). Their differing personalities as sisters is fun to watch, and their antics add onto the comic relief produced by Kid.

Art and Movement:

Genius Camera VP

Maka, Y R U so awesum?!

Flow and Art is incredibly important for Anime and Manga, or generally any kind of animations. The flow of action and movement in SE is extremely done, and the action camera-views are excellently used. The art is somewhat a mainstream style but incorporates unique setting that places the reader into a Coraline/Alice in Wonderland/Tim Burton's Film setting, nearly abstract. The character's movements are not choppy, and the special effects are created equally good.

Acting:

You are probably wondering by now: Why are you not giving it a four polishes? It seems you like it.

It's the voice acting. Yes. Voice Acting.

Black Star and Tsubaki [in weapon form]

In Animes, or in any animation possible, [voice] acting is an essential part of conveying the emotions of a character. Sure the character has body language and facial expressions, but if the voice acting isn't being expressed correctly with the body language, facial expressions, and movement of the character, then the entire feeling is lost in that shot/scene or even arc of the anime. This non-parallel emotions between the character in the shot and the voicing behind that character can make or break it. For example: (Note: THIS IS ALL FOR THE ENGLISH VA, NOT THE JAPANESE VA) Why I don't like Black Star is his voice acting. It is played by a GIRL. Understand that he is young and boys don't hit puberty before like 14 or something, but seriously. Kid is played by a boy (If anyone watched D Gray-man, you'll recognize Allen Walker's <3 VA), but he seems just as young, or even younger, than Black Star. Black Star's VA broke the little likeness I could muster for Black Star. Like I said, I like Black Star, but generally, I hope they change the VA by the mid of the season.

Left to Right: Patty, Liz & Kid
Y U SO COOL, KID?!

Okay, you might think "You're not going to give SE four polishes because of VA?!" Well, VA is very important. Take for example, if that character just didn't have that voice, whether the voice changed lower or higher. In Ouran High School Host Club, if Tamaki-senpai had a different VA, his character probably wouldn't be the same. It just fit. That's the problem that arises with correlation between VAs and the characters being portrayed. If the VA's voice just doesn't fit the image of the character, that character is essential ruined. Another example within SE is Kid's voice. I like his voice so much because his voice can become both serious and funny, which exactly fits Kid's personality. Had he another voice, I don't think I would like him as much.

Overall:

I would recommend Soul Eater. It is an excellent show, and I plan to read the manga as soon as I finish the Anime. The Anime does deviate at some point away from the main canon of manga, so you have been warned! I give SE a super awesome 3/4 polishes. Had VA been a bit better, I would definitely have given it a 4/4 on the spot.

Inked with Brilliance and Love,

Sara

P.S. Sorry for such a big entry and failing to do a feature last Monday. I plan to tomorrow and do more reviews for y'all. Thanks for reading and have an awesome week! I leave you with Black Star and Soul...

This is a face only a mother COULDN'T love...

Review: Silence (Hush, Hush #3) by Becca Fitzpatrick

2012-01-19T23:46:00.008-05:00

Title: Silence

Author: Becca Fitzpatrick

Series: Hush, Hush

Format: Hardcover

Release Date: Oct. 4, 2011

Genre(s): YA, Fiction

Rating:

Summary

The noise between Patch and Nora is gone. They've overcome the secrets riddled in Patch's dark past...bridged two irreconcilable worlds...faced heart-wrenching tests of betrayal, loyalty and trust...and all for a love that will transcend the boundary between heaven and earth. Armed with nothing but their absolute faith in one another, Patch and Nora enter a desperate fight to stop a villain who holds the power to shatter everything they've worked for—and their love—forever.The noise between Patch and Nora is gone. They've overcome the secrets riddled in Patch's dark past...bridged two irreconcilable worlds...faced heart-wrenching tests of betrayal, loyalty and trust...and all for a love that will transcend the boundary between heaven and earth. Armed with nothing but their absolute faith in one another, Patch and Nora enter a desperate fight to stop a villain who holds the power to shatter everything they've worked for—and their love—forever.

Review

Plot: So the summary really says nothing about what it is about. Nora and Patch have yet another enemy and another problem to worry about. Starting off where the other one left off, you find that Nora was kidnapped. But here's the twist: you are dropped into the book with Nora, who is free, but has no memory at all of the last five months. Meaning anything from meeting Patch and on is just gone. Silence takes you through twists and turns that would be hard to figure out even if she did have her memory.

Character(s): Nora: Alright, to be honest, she bugged me to death in this last one. I understand: she's gone through kidnapping, losing her memory, her mom dating again, and way more. But she is always whining and complaining about how unfair life is and everything. Granted, I would probably do the same exact thing, but still.

Cover: I like the cover, though there's nothing special about it. I think it fits the story perfectly and the picture is nice, but nothing really jumps out at me.

Closing Thoughts: I like this book and it was a fun read, but it really wasn't anything special. I'm definitely going to continue this series and it's most definitely worth reading, but it didn't make my top list. I'm giving it a two but don't think of it as a book not worth reading. I liked it and I think anyone should read this, especially to finish the series. Just don't expect anything too special or dazzling.

Sweet Daydreams,

Brooke

Review: Fateful by Claudia Gray

2012-01-19T16:10:00.007-05:00

Title: Fateful

Author: Claudia Gray

Series: N/A

Format: Hardcover

Release Date: 9/12/11

Genre(s): YA, Historical Fiction

Rating:

Summary

A tragic tale about falling in love on the world’s most infamous ill-fated sea voyage as heroine, Tess, discovers darker secrets that lie beneath the doomed crossing… and a hidden brotherhood that threaten to tear her lover from her forever.

The RMS Titanic is the most luxurious ship ever built, but for eighteen-year-old Tess Davies it’s a prison. Traveling as a maid for the family she has served for years, Tess is trapped in their employ amid painful memories and family secrets.

When she meets Alec, a handsome upper class passenger, Tess falls helplessly in love. But Alec has secrets of his own… and soon Tess is entangled in a dangerous game. A sinister brotherhood that will do anything to induct Alec into their mystical order has followed him on board. And Tess is now their most powerful pawn.

Tess and Alec fight the dark forces threatening to tear them apart, never realizing that they will have to face an even greater peril before the journey is over…

New York Times best-selling author Claudia Gray delivers adventure, dark paranormal suspense, alluring romance, and a truly surprise ending, set against the opulent backdrop of the Titanic's first — and last — voyage.

Review

Plot: So did you catch this last bit? About how it's the Titanic? Sorry... I like the Titanic. Anyway, the thing I loved about this plot was there were two completely different things going on. There was the horrible ship you all KNOW is going to sink at one point that keeps you turning pages rapidly fast. But there's also the the paranormal plot which includes werewolves, a cult, and forbidden romance. Tess is a poor slave with no one but herself and a few friendly people in her life. When she is forced on to the Titanic as a slave she makes plans to escape as soon as the ship boards the dock. Through many events Tess meets Alec- a rich, first class boy who every girl would love to marry. But there is a lot more to him then you would think. Before she can do anything about it, she is forced into a world of impossible and sadness.

Character(s): Tess- Tess is the strongest girl alive in my opinion. Ever since she was young she has worked for the harshest family in all of England. They think they're better than everyone and they are horrible to their servants. Over the years, Tess has collected small bits of money here and there and when the Titanic stops in America, she plans to start her life over. Tess is a girl anyone can look up to. She always fights for what's right, which can sometime get her into trouble.

Cover: I have seen two covers for this book but I definitely love this one I put up more. It's so eery and almost made me sad just looking at it. But it's pretty at the same time. I like how it doesn't show the face of the girl (as I've said I don't like) but it shows a good amount of her.

Closing Thoughts: Alright, I'm giving yet another one a four nail polish bottles. But I have always been obsessed with Titanic and this did not disappoint. Sure, who can compete with the original Titanic story I fell in love with? But this actually did a nice job with keeping up. It kept true to the facts of how things were but with a twist of paranormal. It's on my list of favorites for sure.

Where to find Claudia:
Website l Twitter l Goodreads l Amazon

Sweet Daydreams,
Brooke

Review: Ruby Red (Edelstein Trilogie #1) by Kerstin Gier

2012-01-19T15:04:00.012-05:00

Title: Ruby Red

Author: Kerstin Gier

Series: Edelstein Trilogy

Format: Hardcover

Release Date: May 10, 2011

Genre(s): YA, Fiction

Rating:

Summary

Gwyneth Shepherd's sophisticated, beautiful cousin Charlotte has been prepared her entire life for traveling through time. But unexpectedly, it is Gwyneth, who in the middle of class takes a sudden spin to a different era!
Gwyneth must now unearth the mystery of why her mother would lie about her birth date to ward off suspicion about her ability, brush up on her history, and work with Gideon--the time traveler from a similarly gifted family that passes the gene through its male line, and whose presence becomes, in time, less insufferable and more essential. Together, Gwyneth and Gideon journey through time to discover who, in the 18th century and in contemporary London, they can trust.

Review

Plot: Gwyneth is a completely normal girl who has had to live in the shadow of her perfect cousin. Beautiful, smart, perfect in every way. Not to mention she has "the gene." In her family if you get "the gene" you get the ability and power to travel into time. No one suspected Gwyneth had it of course so when she, and not her cousin, Charlotte, starts showing signs of changing, everyone is shocked. Now Gwyneth, who has no knowledge or practice with this sort of thing, must time travel with Gideon, another time traveler who has no confidence in her.

Character(s): Gwyneth- She is a perfectly average girl with no special abilities or talents. Well other than time travel and the especially weird ability to talk to and see ghosts. Other than that though, she is as normal as you can get. I like how real she is in contrast
to the too-perfect or cliche main characters that I sometimes see. She can be a bit whiny, immature, and stubborn, but I like that about her. She's not perfect and it's nice.

Cover: I actually had never seen the cover until after reading it seeing as I borrowed it from a friend (who took the cover off). I can't say this is why I picked it up and I've never been a fan of showing a person on the cover. But I do actually like he designs, color, and whole theme of it. I didn't notice it at first, but I really like the cool clock on the front that shows how it has to do with time travel.

Closing Thoughts: I seem to be always giving high ratings to books but I just love them all! I'm giving this four nail polish bottles because it has romance, but its actually very unique. The author planed for this to be a trilogy originally so there is a lot of unsolved problems that are getting much more intricate and it keeps you on your toes. You wont believe when the book is over!

Where to find Kerstin:
l Goodreads l Amazon

Sweet Daydreams,
Brooke

Winner of Jessica Rules the Dark Side

2012-01-16T14:21:00.001-05:00

Thank you to Beth Fantaskey for stopping by our blog last week and answering a few questions and letting us giveaway her new book!

The winner of Jessica Rules the Dark Side is:

Shae Carcar

Thank you to all that entered!

Peace and Fangs,

Alisha

Disclaimer: The winner of each giveaway is given 48 hours to respond to this corresponding post. If they do not reply, their prize is up for grabs for other entries and a new name will be drawn.

Review: Etched in Bone (The Maker's Song #4) by Adrian Phoenix

2012-01-15T19:46:00.003-05:00

Title: Etched in Bone
Author: Adrian Phoenix
Series: The Maker's Song
1. A Rush of Wings

2. In the Blood

3. Beneath the Skin
4. Etched in Bone

5. On Midnight Wings (releases 3/28)
Format: Paperback (382 pages)
Release Date: Feb. 22, 2011
Genre(s): Urban Fantasy, Romance, Adult

Rating:

Summary

SON OF A FALLEN ANGEL. FORGED IN VAMPIRE’S BLOOD. SWORN TO A MORTAL WOMAN. IF DANTE FALLS, THE WORLD FALLS WITH HIM. . . .

THREE LEGACIES ETCHED IN BONE

More beautiful and powerful than any creature the world has ever seen, Dante Baptiste has become the supreme target of the three worlds that spawned him. The mortal agents of the Shadow Branch have tried to control his mind through psychological torture. The vampire elders who guide nightkind society have plotted to use him in their bloodthirsty bid for power. And the Fallen have waited for millennia for Dante to claim his birthright as their Maker. But Dante belongs to no one—except the woman he loves. . . .

ONE PASSION SWORN IN BLOOD

Determined to face the Fallen and the world on his own terms, Dante hopes to piece together his shattered past and claim his future, with FBI agent Heather Wallace at his side. But in Heather’s human family awaits an unexpected enemy. One who could rip Heather from Dante’s heart and fill the holes with bullets. One who could force Dante to choose his darkest destiny—as the Great Destroyer. . . .

Review

Plot: I had just finished this book and needed to get out all of my thoughts before I lost them. Again, Adrian Phoenix has done an amazing job in this series! The more books I read in this series the more I'm left wanting more. In Etched in Bone, we are taken to New Orleans where Dante, Heather, and the gang have finally made it back to Club Hell. This plot is different from Adrian's other books in the series. It starts off in present time, but then we are taken back to days between where we left off in Beneath the Skin and where we started. We get to see what happened in Gehenna and the romance between Dante and Heather blossom even more. Etched in Bone does continue Dante's journey to discover what he is and why everyone wants a piece of him. The book does seem to take an unwanted turn when Dante starts to believe he can even cause Heather harm and that he might be at the end of his rope. The book is chockful of romance and suspense throughout in true Adrian form, plus a twist you don't see coming.

Characters:

Heather - Heather does seem more stubborn to be at Dante's side, whether or not he feels differently. I did notice in here that Dante is starting to grow on her when she uses Cajun in her speech and quotes him here and there. I loved how we got to see not only how Dante and her communicate through their bond but also the consequences of having a bond as they do. She's starting to see that even though he doesn't want to, Dante could potentially hurt her.

Dante - All the things I could say about Dante! He seems to be slipping even further into his past which not only Heather but everyone else tries to push away from him. Dante does, as always, show that he is always himself. He protects the ones he loves and tries at everything to make sure they will live even if he's the one putting them in danger. He's still trying to figure out what to do and how he can still go on after everything from Beneath the Skin.

Cover: I love the books covers and they seem to be getting more towards the characters, including Dante! The wig, I have to say that I cringe over, but I am glad they are starting to make the models look more like the characters.

Overall Rating: I gave this book a four out of four because it hit all the points it needed to but still left us with cliff-hangers and questions to keep us hungry for more. It has just the right amount of action and suspense as well as just enough romance to show us that there's more than one plot line. Adrian Phoenix has done an incredible job with this series and I can not wait for the release of On Midnight Wings!

Where to find Adrian:

Website l Twitter l Facebook l Goodreads

Peace and Fangs,

Alisha

Manga Mondays - 10 of my favorite Anime/Manga ladies

2012-01-09T20:46:00.001-05:00

Hey y'all! As you can see by the title, this week:

10 of my favorite Anime/Manga ladies!

Yep, this week it's gonna be all about the characters and why I love them all! Fair warning, they are not in any certain order; just who comes to mind immediately.

First off....

Number 10: Erza Scarlet of Fairy Tail

Erza is simply the iconic figure of all female strength in Anime/Manga in today's mainstream pop culture of A&M. She's got the badarse gear, and her fight scenes are excellently drawn. Her character's personality and background are well created and tie together with the main plot line. Not only is she tough and awesome, Erza also contains a side-story love life within Fairy Tail, only making her an even more interesting character!

Keiji: I APPROVE! BIG BOSOMS!! MORE MO-

*SLLLLLLLLLLLLLAP*

Excuse the idiot... Anyways...

Number 9: Orihime Inoue of Bleach

Yes.. I like Orihime-chan... She's is awesome! Her character is fun to watch on the screen of the Anime and read in the Manga. She's somewhat of a typical shounen-esque girl (for example her-BIG BOSOMS! ... *Irritation... Gun shots...* ), however, Orihime is a quick necessity within the story and shows a soft side of many characters, especially Bleach's hero, Ichigo Kurosaki. I also love all her humorous parts because she is seriously the air-head comedic relief.

Number 8: Idachi Hana of Yankee-kun to Megane-chan

Hana-san... *elation* She's a boss. Simply put. She is a tough fighter but also I like her stupidity as well. Yet, her determination makes her a strong female lead in YKtMC manga series. Her constantly changing mood is fun to see in every chapter, and her antics keeps me quite entertained.

Glasses girl >:D *creepy thoughts*...

You're an idiot.... >.>

Number 7: Kanae Kotonami of Skip Beat!

Nicknamed "Moko-san" (literally meaning Ms. Tiger) by Kyoko, Moko-san is an intense character. Her nickname is giving credit where credit is due. Her headstrong personality as well as her mood swings give Kanae-san her unique character. She totally seems like a meanie and a jerk at the beginning (aka a tsundere character at its very core), her advice and very existence allows the main heroine of SB! to grow as a mature and fun person.

WHY CAN'T SHE BE MY GIRLFRIEND!?

BECAUSE YOU'RE 20, YOU OJOU-SAN!

Number 6: Chiwa Takanasi of Hapi Mari

Want me to be honest? At first, I hated Takanasi-san. She annoyed the crapola outta me at first. After a while, though, I stared to feel for her. I get why she is the way she is, and she isn't a basic character. The things she does and the things she says, she does it for a reason. She isn't one of those angsty adults that can't find love. She has it in front of her, and it felt nice to be able to watch Chiwa-san grow into an amazing character. Even if I didn't like her too much, she did make me laugh at the beginning.

She's a hot oku-chan...

....Please ignore the dimwit...

Number 7: Sawa Konishi of Rockin' Heaven

Honestly, this is probably one of the first typical shoujos I've ever read, and that is probably how it really got me into shoujos (evil vile things that speak of fairy tale loves!! DARN YOU SHOUJOS!!) Well, Sawa Konishi seemed like a typical shoujo girl: Big eyes, girlie looking, she thinks the top guy at the school is the hottest of them all, blah blah blah, etc. etc. However, I realized, by finishing RH that Sawa was an exception. She sticks to her beliefs, from beginning to end. She stands up for what's right, even if she is bullied for it. Even through all the shoujo sparkly crud, I still like Sawa a lot.

Not my thing... Weirdo mangaka, Sa-

STFU KEIJI! *punch*

Number 6: Meirin of Kuroshitsuji

Anyways, our number 6 is personally one of my FAVORITE FAVORITES, Meirin! She has such a cool background, and seriously, my mind was BLOWN when I saw her real identity (won't reveal too much here!). Meirin is very amusing to watch in the Anime as well as read in the Manga. Her infatuation with Sebastian is pretty cute, and her glasses get me to laugh every time.

If Sebastian is gonna pass on her, I'll take her! She's my age, right?...*silence*... RIGHT!?!? :'( *sigh*

Anyways...

Number 5: Lenalee Lee of D. Gray-man

Very cool character. For a while, I had a huge obsession (LEMME TELL YOU IT WAS BAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAA- *ROUNDHOUSE KICK*...) with female characters of games, anime, books, mangas, etc. etc. However, I lost the little femininity I had when I got into shounens and playing Assassin's Creed (ALTAIR AND EZIO FOREVER!). Lenalee partially restored my girlie fandomism. She is awesome and tough. She doesn't take crud from anyone, and seriously, I wanna be like her. She's so amazing and fun to watch on the screen. Her values in life remind me of myself (family and friends above all; friends always are family). Lenalee is awesome. Period. End of Statement. P.S. SHE MAKES PIGTAILS LOOK MORE BADARSE THAN SAILOR MOON EVER WILL!!

Connecting into Number 4: Rei Hino (Sailor Mars) of Sailor Moon

You know who I wanted to grow up to be when I was little? (A vet- *SUPERASIANPUNCH* SHADDUP!) Sailor Mars. Yep. SAILOR MARS. Not Sailor Moon. Not Sailor Venus (even though she was cool). Not Sailor Pluto. SAILOR MARS. She was my idol when I grew up watching Sailor Moon. She had the wicked and long black hair, the color RED (!!), and she controlled fire and a fire bow. YOU KNOW HOW MUCH MY MIND WAS FREAKING BLOWN BY HER!?... Obviously a lot.

Number 3: Teru Kurebayashi of Dengeki Daisy

I like Teru. She's very mellow, and she defends people. I think people who are willing to defend the weak are always amazing. They personally put themselves in the front lines to defend others, and that's why I've always liked the "typical" hero/heroine who tries to save or defend, not only the people they love, but everyone around them, especially the weak. Teru does this right off the bat in chapter one of the manga, even though she inside is weak. She still protects people although people do not bother with her. Her humor also is fun to have around in the book. *elation*

There you go again! Hitting the big-eyed little gir- NO ONE ASKED YOU! *Hits with a metal bat*

Number 2: Feng Lan of 1/2 Prince

Her alternative persona,
Prince

Feng Lan out of Second Life

She reminds me of when I used to play MMORPGs. I would never want to play girls because people always treat you all nicely and kindly. No. Don't discriminate my gender fools! I can beat you all without being a girl!! Feng Lan does just this within 1/2 Prince. Seriously, Feng Lan is merciless within fights, especially during the tournament's first battle (gosh, I love when she just STABBED her enemy while smiling all coldly. Amazing. Astonishing...). Feng Lan is a very interesting character, and her personality really creates a fun story. I enjoy every moment herself/Prince is on the screen. *silence...* Oh my... Is he gone?... Did I hurt him too much last time?... Well.. Anyways...

And finally...

Number 1: Haruhi Fujioka of Ouran High School Host Club

Lemme tell you... After I read Rockin' Heaven, I read Ouran High School Host Club. I fell in love with Haruhi's character. Simply amazing character design and creation by Bisco Hatori-san. Haruhi's lack of the clique heroine within a shoujo manga is the best. Her laziness and unenthusiastic effort within the host club's activities never cease to amuse me. Her many expressions and actions create a diverse character, differing from the typical. This non-typical character has made me purchase the anime series on DVD for Christmas. I also plan on buying all the mangas... Thank you Haruhi for creating a worse addiction than should have existed within me. I don't think you need her help for that, Sara-san.

Why, thanks Keiji!... WAIT A SECOND! WHAT WAS THAT!!?

PAHAHAHA!!

Well anyways, Inked with Brilliance and Love,

Sara.

I gotta go catch that jerk...

Interview with Beth Fantaskey Giveaway

2012-01-09T10:00:00.002-05:00

Today is the release of Jessica Rules the Dark Side. The book is the second in the Jessica series by Beth Fantaskey. I had the chance to ask Beth some quick questions about Jessica Rules, her writing, and what's to come...

BNR: Can you tell our readers a quick summary of what Jessica Rules the Dark Side is about?

BF: In the first book, Jessica’s Guide to Dating on the Dark Side, average American teenager Jessica Packwood learns that she’s a vampire princess by birth – and destined to marry Lucius Vladescu, a mysterious, sometimes dangerous, Romanian vampire prince.

The sequel picks up the narrative after Jess and Lucius’s wedding (which you can read on my website, bethfantaskey.com). It tells the story of Jessica’s adjustment to life as a true vampire princess, living in Romania with scary old “Elders” and trying to run a castle, even though she can barely speak the language. This time, she’s the one who feels completely out of place, just like Lucius did in the first book. And when Lucius – who is still something of a mystery – is accused of destroying an Elder, Jess finds herself even deeper in over her head.

BNR: Before Jessica Rules the Dark Side, you released the story of Jessica and Lucius' wedding. Why did you decide to write their wedding? Why on your site instead of in a book/novella?

BF: I wrote the wedding before my publisher gave the go-ahead for a full sequel. I wanted to show my gratitude to everyone who asked to see Jess and Lucius get married by giving them the story they wanted, for free.

Writing the wedding on-line also allowed me to give fans of Jess and Lucius a chance to actually take part in the wedding as “bridesmaids.” Over the course of several weeks, I held polls on where the ceremony would be held, what Jess’s dress would look like – even if Jess and Lucius would kiss or bite each other to seal their union. Then, when the votes were all in, I wrote the story that readers asked for, posting new chapters every other day. It was incredibly fun and a great way to get to know the people who loved the book.

BNR: What can we expect differently in Jessica Rules than from Jessica's Guide?

BF: In the first book, Jess is always confident. But in the second book, that confidence is tested, and she has some really difficult moments of self-doubt. I don’t try to make big philosophical points in my novels, but I did like showing how Jess fights back to regain not only her initial self-assurance, but a new regal presence.

And, of course, Jess’s best friend Mindy has a voice in the sequel – as does the new hippie/surfer, Italian vampire Raniero.

Aside from those things, the sequel is a lot like the first book. I wanted readers to laugh again, and get caught up in some passionate romances.

BNR: What songs or movies do you relate to Jessica and Lucius' romance? Mindy and Raniero's?

BF: I’m always reminded of Jess and Lucius when I hear music by Apocalyptica, Evanescence, and groups with similar haunting sounds. On the polar opposite end of the spectrum, I think of Mindy and Raniero when I hear pretty much anything by Jack Johnson or a song like Mika’s “Love Today.” They’re definitely a “lighter” couple.

I don’t usually relate any movies to them. I’m definitely more inspired by music.

BNR: Will there be more books in store for the characters?

BF: I’m not really sure. I have ideas, but a lot depends upon how well Jessica Rules the Dark Side is received. It’s not entirely up to me.

BNR: If you could spend a day with your characters (from the Jessica series and Jekel and Hyde), what would you like to do with them?

BF: Lucius Vladescu – horseback riding in the Carpathian Mountains
Jessica Packwood Vladescu – Get a tour of Bucharest and Lucius’s hometown of Sighisoara
Mindy Stankiewicz – Have her help me with my hair!
Raniero Vladescu Lovatu – Surfing lessons would be fantastic
Jill Jekel – Mix up some trouble outside the lab with her alter ego
Tristen Hyde – Listen to him play piano... I love musicians!

BNR: Is there one genre that you would like/wouldn't want to write about that you haven't yet?

BF: I grew up loving mystery novels, and I’m still a huge fan. I think that would be a fun genre to try someday. But right now, I’m happy writing romantic fiction for young adults – and anybody else who wants to read my books!

BNR: How has the Jessica series changed your way of writing?

BF: I don’t think writing the series has really changed my habits – although I definitely learn things with every book that I write. Does that make any sense? I guess what I’m trying to say is that I have my “style” of writing, but I feel like I’m always learning about things like pacing, plotting, etc. Maybe I don’t even realize how I evolve, because it’s gradual.

BNR: If you could be a character in a book or series, who would it be and would you take the same actions as them?

BF: I’d be Nancy Drew, driving around in my sports car and solving mysteries with my best friend. And, no offense to him, but I’d break up with wishy-washy Ned Nickerson. He’s a nice enough guy, but a girl like Nancy needs a boyfriend who brings a little more excitement to the table.

BNR: Are there any new projects on your plate? Could we get a hint?

BF: I do have a project in the works, but it’s too new to give details. I will say that it’s a romance with a new kind of paranormal hero and new twists. I hope that’s enough!

BNR: (Bonus) Do you have anything you want to do for the new year?

BF: I am this close (holding thumb and forefinger teeny distance apart) to finishing a Ph.D. that I’ve worked on for seven years. I really, really want to wrap it up this spring and be Dr. Beth Fantaskey. Wow, would that shock a lot of people – including me!

Where you can find Jessica:

Website l Twitter l Facebook l Goodreads

It’s one thing to find out you’re a vampire princess. It’s a whole other thing to actually rule. Newly married Jessica Packwood is having a hard enough time feeling regal with her husband, Lucius, at her side. But when evidence in the murder of a powerful elder points to Lucius, sending him into solitary confinement, Jessica is suddenly on her own. Determined to clear her husband’s name, Jessica launches into a full-scale investigation, but hallucinations and nightmares of betrayal keep getting in her way. Jessica knows that with no blood to drink, Lucius’s time is running out. Can she figure out who the real killer is—and whom she can trust—before it’s too late?

Giveaway item: One copy of Jessica Rules the Dark Side

Type: International

Requirements: 13 years or older

How to enter: Fill-out form below

This giveaway will end on January 15 at 11:59pm EST!

Thank you to Beth for taking time out to stop by BNR and to let us do this amazing interview/giveaway! If you would like to read my review of Jessica Rules, click here and go here to check out Jessica and Lucius' wedding!

Peace and Fangs,
Alisha

Cover Reveal: City of Lost Souls (Mortal Instruments #5) by Cassandra Clare

2012-01-04T12:48:00.001-05:00

Cassandra Clare has just released the cover of City of Lost Souls which is set to release May 8, 2012! Here's the cover:

Absolutely gorgeous! Jace and Clary look amazing...

Here is the prologue of CoLS for those who are craving for more:

Simon stood and stared numbly at the front door of his house.

He'd never known another home. This was the place his parents had brought him home to when he was born. He had grown up within the walls of the Brooklyn row house. He'd played on the street under the leafy shade of the trees in the summer, and had made improvised sleds out of garbage can lids in the winter. In this house his whole family had sat shivah after his father had died. Here he had kissed Clary for the first time.

He had never imagined a day when the door of the house would be closed to him. The last time he had seen his mother, she had called him a monster and prayed at him that he would go away. He had made her forget that he was a vampire, using glamour, but he had not known how long the glamour would last. As he stood in the cold autumn air, staring in front of him, he knew it had not lasted long enough.

The door was covered with signs—Stars of David splashed on in paint, the incised shape of the symbol for Chai, life. Tefillin were bound to the doorknob and knocker. A hamesh, the Hand of God, covered the peephole.

Numbly he put his hand to the metal mezuzah affixed to the right side of the doorway. He saw the smoke rise from the place where his hand touched the holy object, but he felt nothing. No pain. Only a terrible empty blankness, rising slowly into a cold rage.

He kicked the bottom of the door and heard the echo through the house. "Mom!" he shouted. "Mom, it's me!"

There was no reply—only the sound of the bolts being turned on the door. His sensitized hearing had recognized his mother's footsteps, her breathing, but she said nothing. He could smell acrid fear and panic even through the wood. "Mom!" His voice broke. "Mom, this is ridiculous! Let me in! It's me, Simon!"

The door juddered, as if she had kicked it. "Go away!" Her voice was rough, unrecognizable with terror. "Murderer!"

"I don't kill people." Simon leaned his head against the door. He knew he could probably kick it down, but what would be the point? "I told you. I drink animal blood."

He heard her whisper, softly, several words in Hebrew. "You killed my son," she said. "You killed him and put a monster in his place."

"I am your son—"

"You wear his face and speak with his voice, but you are not him! You're not Simon!" Her voice rose to almost a scream. "Get away from my house before I kill you, monster!"

"Becky," he said. His face was wet; he put his hands up to touch it, and they came away stained: His tears were bloody. "What have you told Becky?"

"Stay away from your sister." Simon heard a clattering from inside the house, as if something had been knocked over.

"Mom," he said again, but this time his voice wouldn't rise. It came out as a hoarse whisper. His hand had begun to throb. "I need to know—is Becky there? Mom, open the door. Please—"

"Stay away from Becky!" She was backing away from the door; he could hear it. Then came the unmistakeable squeal of the kitchen door swinging open, the creak of the linoleum as she walked on it. The sound of a drawer being opened. Suddenly he imagined his mother grabbing for one of the knives.

Before I kill you, monster.

The thought rocked him back on his heels. If she struck out at him, the Mark would rise. It would destroy her as it had destroyed Lilith.

He dropped his hand and backed up slowly, stumbling down the steps and across the sidewalk, fetching up against the trunk of one of the big trees that shaded the block. He stood where he was, staring at the front door of his house, marked and disfigured with the symbols of his mother's hate for him.

No, he reminded himself. She didn't hate him. She thought he was dead. What she hated was something that didn't exist. I am not what she says I am.

He didn't know how long he would have stood there, staring, if his phone hadn't begun to ring, vibrating his coat pocket.

He reached for it reflexively, noticing that the pattern from the front of the mezuzah—interlocked Stars of David—was burned into the palm of his hand. He switched hands and put the phone to his ear. "Hello?"

"Simon?" It was Clary. She sounded breathless. "Where are you?"

"Home," he said, and paused. "My mother's house," he amended. His voice sounded hollow and distant to his own ears. "Why aren't you back at the Institute? Is everyone all right?"

"That's just it," she said. "Just after you left, Maryse came back down from the roof where Jace was supposed to be waiting. There was no one there."

Simon moved. Without quite realizing he was doing it, like a mechanical doll, he began walking up the street, toward the subway station. "What do you mean, there was no one there?"

"Jace was gone," she said, and he could hear the strain in her voice. "And so was Sebastian."

Simon stopped in the shadow of a bare-branched tree. "But he was dead. He's dead, Clary—"

"Then you tell me why he isn't there, because he isn't," she said, her voice finally breaking.

"There's nothing up there but a lot of blood and broken glass. They're both gone, Simon. Jace is gone. . . ."

You can look at the whole series here and follow Cassandra's Twitter for further updates!

Peace and Fangs,
Alisha

HAPPY 2ND ANNIVERSARY, BNR!!

2012-01-04T00:25:00.000-05:00

OMG IT'S THE SECOND FULL YEAR THAT BNR HAS BEEN LIVING! :D YEAH! PARTY! WOOT! /invites everyone over

Anyways, I planned on releasing this for the anniversary anyways, and thankfully, I actually finished it yesterday/today (?!).

I would like to personally extend my thanks to every follower and viewer of BNR and know that Alisha (especially), Brooke, and me thank you all very much and appreciate every time you visit us. I would also like to thank Alisha and Brooke for allowing me to join them in blogging. You both are amazing people, and I truly hope we can continue to make this blog amazing. Let's make this year awesome, and continue to satisfy our literary and artistic thirsts!

My gifts to both Alisha and Brooke are linked below. Free commissions for amazing and awesome people.
I love you both. :)

Let's kick some butt this year!
Brooke's Picture
Alisha's Picture
Sara's Picture

With a special thanks and congratulations on our 2nd year,
Sara

P.S. If you like the art, feel free to figure out the letter in all three picture and where it is at. Leave a comment on here or on deviantart. If you are correct and first to guess right, then you can receive a free commission from me, if you'd like.

Top Ten Tuesdays: Books I'm Excited To Read in 2012

2012-01-03T19:50:00.001-05:00

I'm glad to finally be able to get back on track and join in on my favorite memes. The Broke and the Bookish have a weekly feature called Top Ten Tuesdays where blogs can sing-up and share their lists about that week's topic! This week, TTT is about our top ten books we're excited about this year...here's mine:

1. City of Lost Souls (Mortal Instruments #5) by Cassandra Clare

I'm very excited about finally reading CoLS. After reading CoFA, I can't wait to see what happens with Jace and Simon. Plus, it'll be nice to see how Cassandra ends the series...

2. Immortal Hearts (Vampire Kisses #9) by Ellen Schreiber

I can't even express how giddy I am for this to come out! After nine books, I keep wondering how Ellen will wrap this up and where the characters will go. Raven and Alexander have been one of my favorite fictional characters and wonder how they'll deal with a certain relative! ;D

3. On Midnight Wings (The Maker's Song #5) Adrian Phoenix

As of right now, I'm reading the most newest installment in the series, Etched in Bone, and can't get enough of it. I love the budding romance between Heather and Dante and how vividly Adrian can portray Dante's beauty and anguish.

4. Goddess Interrupted (Goddess Test #2) by Aimee Carter

I'm a huge Greek mythology nerd, so this is a series I would love to read more about. After reading The Goddess Test, I loved the characters and can't wait to see what Kate might do for her "vacation".

5. Magic of the Moonlight (Full Moon #2) by Ellen Schreiber

I'm a huge Schreiber fan, so I wasn't sure if I would like this series because it wasn't VK. However, Celeste and Brandon pulled me in like Ellen Schreiber's characters always do! I want to know what happens with Brandon's 'curse' and if they will really want to break it.

6. Clockwork Princess (Infernal Devices #3) by Cassandra Clare

Along with loving the Mortal Instruments series, I have loved Cassandra's new series, Infernal Devices, and want to see how Tessa's story plays out. Plus, I don't think I'm the only one who wants to see a certain romance bud!

7. Dreamless (Starcrossed #2) by Josephine Angelini

I loved Starcrossed and want to see how Helen and Lucas deal with certain problems as well as see if there might be a love triangle forming for them.

8. Everneath (Everneath #1) by Brodi Ashton

I saw this book last year and once I saw it involved romance and mythology, I click "to-read" on Goodreads. The cover is absolutely beautiful and the book seems like a potentially great series!

9. The Golden Lily (Bloodlines #2) by Richelle Mead

I haven't gotten to read the first installment yet, but I love Richelle Mead's work! Since it's continuing on the VA series and contains characters I love, I'm hoping this is a great series! (Plus, this cover is gorgeous!)

10. Rapture (Fallen #4) by Lauren Kate

This series is cute and tragic all in one and I can't get enough of it. I need to also catch-up on the series itself, so this release will definitely help me get back into the swing of Luce and Daniel again.

What books are you guys looking forward to this year?

Peace and Fangs,
Alisha

My Challenges for 2012

2012-01-02T22:52:00.000-05:00

Last year was my first year at doing challenges, I was unable to finish any of them, but I'm hoping this year's different. Since I know how challenges work, I am going to do two this year! Here are my 2012 challenges:

My first challenge is hosted by Book Chick City and is a speculative romance challenge. The challenge is about reading books that have romance mixed with paranormal romance, urban fantasy, steampunk, etc.

There are four levels to the challenge on how many books to read, I decided on a happy medium, so I chose the third level (Three sexy vampires = 18 books). You do not have to choose your books ahead of time, so I am going to list them as I go!

If you would like to sign-up for this challenge, click here to get more information!

This challenge is hosted by Literary Escapism...this is their fourth year! I have never done this challenge before, so I will keep it safe and go with the minimum (15 new authors). The object of the challenge is to read books from authors you have not read before.

If you would like to sign-up yourself, click here to join!

I'm going to be chronicling my progress on our Challenges page as well as on the right sidebar. What challenges have you joined this year?

Peace and Fangs,

Alisha

Manga Mondays - Anime VS Manga

2012-01-02T16:51:00.001-05:00

Welcome all! Today's MM is going to be a comparison with the anime/manga, Skip Beat! by Nakimura Yoshiki.

Left to Right: Sho Fuwa, Ren Tsuruga, and Kyoko Megumi

What's it about!?

Skip Beat! is the story of Kyoko Megumi, who was the childhood friend of rockstar idol, Sho(taro) Fuwa. Kyoko stumbles in on a conversation between Sho and his manager, saying that she was just a maid. Obviously, Kyoko is pissed off at Sho, who she loved deeply, and swears revenge by jumping into the showbiz world herself! Along the way, she meets Ren Tsuruga, the sexiest idol in Japan, ranking higher in the showbiz world than Sho could even possibly dream. But, Kyoko only seems to tick Tsuruga-san off. With her heart broken and lacking in any ability to experience the vain emotion of "love" again, this ironic love story is a hilarious ride that keeps you wanting more.

This story is just amazing all on its own. It is a creative story line and amazing details within each drawings, both Manga and Anime. However, which one is better? Well, let's compare!

Moko-san (Kanae Kotonami) & Kyoko

The Manga: Okay, so the manga = Top Notch. Character design as well as details and expressions all create a fun story for anyone to read. The artwork is great, and the reader really gets to experience the story at their own pace. It's fun, exciting, and action packed. So far, the manga comes up to 28 volumes with many more on the way. The details within the manga are so great. I personally enjoy extra emotions from characters with/without names because it just adds to the comedy with the minor details. The screentones are excellently used, and the panel usage is well used so the reader isn't overwhelmed with the information of the story. Introductions of characters, information, or shocking details are varied within each chapter, so you aren't feeling the over-use and being quickly bored.

The Anime: Okay, so the anime is pretty freaking awesome as well. Both arts with the manga and anime are nearly identical, which doesn't take out the originality of Nakamura-san's work. The characters are pulled right out from the mangas, which will let the audience who watched the anime first then read the manga won't be confused. The story lines are nearly identical, and every action and relationship between characters is also identical. However, the anime only consists of 26 total episodes, and some you can't even watch fully unless you own the actual dvds.

That's the face a mother could only love. (irony)
Kyoko and her amusing dark side

Okay, so you're probably wondering... So what's the difference?

HERE'S THE DIFFERENCE!

The anime isn't as good as the manga.

1 - The anime's lack of details ~

Details are extremely vital within stories, whether they are drawn or written. When the story lacks any details within the original, you just feel sad, kind of like in fugging Twilight the crap movie. Bella TOTALLY meets Alice and them ALL in different ways. And it pissed me off that they changed it.

However, even though Skip Beat!'s anime did not vary so much from the manga, there are still small details that I wanted to keep in there (sorry, it'd take me forever to go and list every single one...)

Kyoko and Ren ~ Manga colored

2 - The manga's superb story telling is shortened ~

Yashiro-san! <3

Okay, obviously the anime can't have too much because it is ~22-24 minute show, not including commercials. Just like with movie adaptions of books, they can't include every single detail, just like with numero 1. But what I mean is: It practically STAYS in Kyoko's POV the entire time. Don't get me wrong: I LOVE Kyoko-chan. I adore her character. However, in the manga, they included a lot more of other people's POV, such as Yashiro-san (Tsuruga-san's manager) and also Tsuruga-san's POV. Both of these characters look at the situations starkly different from Kyoko-chan and themselves. This also lacks Shoutaro's POV, but because the anime is only 26 episodes so far, his opinion hasn't really come yet. This lack of different POVs actually messes with the story line. It's a love story, and there is always the two partner's (Tsuruga-san & Kyoko), the rival (Shotaro-san), and the third party (Yashiro-san). Maybe I am being to cliche, but I think that when you have multiple perspectives in a book (Ever read Cassandra Clare's books? Yeah. That's what I'm saying!), it makes the book more interesting because you see the different view points of each character. The lack of this aspect waters down the story and makes it seem like its from heartbroken girl's POV, even if Kyoko-chan isn't really like that.

Kyoko ~ Manga chapter cover

Shotaro, Kyoko, & Ren

Finally, 3 - The art ~

The thing about Nakamura-san's art work is because it is nothing like any other mainstream artists! Nakamura-san's drawings are so amazing, detailed, and much more realistic than anything mainstream could pull, that the anime made me miss the smaller details on Nakamura-san's work. I know that the anime can't have too much details because it'd be overwhelming for the digital painters, however I still believe that they could have added a bit more. After all, this is a showbiz shoujo story!

COMPARE BELOW!

Manga ~ Kyoko & Shotaro

Anime ~ Kyoko & Shotaro

MY OPINION?!

Okay, obviously, you can see that I prefer the manga over the anime. The anime's excellent voice acting as well as art and story that is parallelly similar to the manga. The manga superiority within the story telling and art exceeds the anime any day. While the anime keeps the refreshing emotions of each character, especially Kyoko, the manga surpasses the anime in essential aspects that create a perfect story.

Anime ~ Sho gets FACESLAMMED by
Kyoko's "angel" personas.

Manga ~
Ren & Sho chibi-dolls &
Kyoko

Closing thoughts: So, I suggest to go read and watch Skip Beat! as soon as possible. I'll place links below for everyone to enjoy this marvelous piece of art and story!

By the way... Another incentive for all females reading this...

SKIP BEAT! = TWO PROTAGONIST BISHIES! LOOK AT THEMMMMMMMMMM!!

Well, Sayonara everyone! Till next time,

Inked with Brilliance and Love,

Sara

Sorry that Keiji is not featured in this debut of Manga Mondays! He will be featured next time, being placed into the conversation as well! So, tune in next Monday, January 9th 2012! By the way, happy New Years!!

Manga can be read here!

Anime watched here!

Review: Tokyo Crazy Paradise by Yoshiki Nakamura

2012-01-01T15:57:00.003-05:00

Ryuji and Tsukasa respectively.

Title: Tokyo Crazy Paradise
Artist: Nakamura Yoshiki
Volumes: 19
Genres: Action, Comedy, Drama, Gender Bender, Martial Arts, Mild-Nudity, Romance, School life, Shoujo
Rating:

Summary:

It's the year 2020 AD, and Tokyo is a city infested with crime. Women can no longer go out in the streets alone without being victimized. Not wanting their daughter to suffer the same fate, Tsukasa Kozuki's cop parents raise her as a boy. When they are suddenly killed by one of the yakuza's in-fights, Tsukasa is left orphaned on the streets along with her three brothers. With no other options, she goes to the only person she can think of for help: pokerface Ryuji Shirogami, her classmate of 8 years and also the head leader of the powerful Yakuza group, Kuryugumi. Ryuji, whose father was also a victim of the same yakuza fight, agrees to take her on as his personal bodyguard. As they set out to find their enemy, Ryuji slaps on an increasing amount of debt onto Tsukasa using all manners of ploys necessary to keep the reluctant Tsukasa by his side.

Review:

Plot: The plot is created both linear and nonlinear. The reader gets to both enjoy the creatively woven story line that Tokyo Crazy Paradise has to offer as well as the extra stories that involve the crazy lives of Tsukasa and Ryuji. Their inane bickering and hilarious antics keep the reader enjoying the story, laughing and smiling, creating a just atmosphere with the reader. You see the inner struggles of both Ryuji, who has been watching Tsukasa for the 8 years they have "known" each other, and vis versa for Tsukasa. But, because both characters are basically polar opposites (Yakuza brat and police brat), they never socialized with each other; until now of course. The story quickly paced itself in such a way that the reader was not overwhelmed with constant information (Not a lot of characters introduced in the beginning, but enough to keep the story moving) as well as the use of different facial perspectives, environments, and artistry that keeps the manga flowing. It places the reader in mostly the POV of Tsukasa, who struggles having to keep a front of a man, but grows into the womanly features and feelings of being in love and also fighting for love. It also puts the perspective into Ryuji and his close attendant, Kamojima-san (Kamo-san), who is a fatherly figure to Ryuji. It's interesting to see both sides of emotions and story because Ryuji is such an interesting character (the best!) because of his "lack-of-emotions" facade and also Kamo-san's attempts to make Ryuji happy (like a father should). Ryuji is usually fighting with himself about his feelings for Tsukasa, and his reactions to many of her facial expressions or words is very fun to see. Back to the plot line, it stays on track and doesn't deviate too far from each other. Generally, most arcs ("arc" = episode/story portion & usually the constant story plot for a few to a couple of chapters) within TCP is connected one way or another, whether it is to delve deeper into the central story or to learn more about a character. The plot of TCP and the characters creates a full and satisfying story at the very end.

Characters:

Tsukasa Kozuki~ One of the most entertaining and creative characters I have ever had the pleasure of reading about. Her character is so well thought out, and her actions and feelings slowly develop. The reader actually grows with the character, rather than the character just having an epiphany and changes suddenly. It is a gradual change and so rare into today's most mangas. Tsukasa is a very fun character to watch in each panel she is in, and she isn't your typical heroine. Bad things and good things happen to her, and she lives her life in strides. If anything, I'd base my main heroines on her any day.

Tsukasa and Ryuji

Ryuji Shirogami~ Ryuji definitely deserves some credit as well. His character is also like Tsukasa, where he is gradually growing and becoming a better man. His stoicism at the beginning and his IDGAF-unless it is about my Kumi (lower-class Yakuza men, i.e. "henchmen")- attitude creates an tsundere (Definition here) character. This also creates the paralleling opposite characters between Tsukasa and Ryuji (Loud and active VS Quiet and tough, respectively). This creates a conflicting atmosphere, yet when both characters are on the same wavelength, the reader feels happiness at their shared moments. Ryuji's character is amazingly created, and his character design also supports his attitude.

Kamojima~ Kamo-san is a supporting character, but I feel Ryuji would've lacked a little without Kamo-san. He created the underlying warm side of Ryuji, which this warm side is presented in the later volumes of TCP. Kamo-san was a wonderfully made character, and truthfully, he is one of my favorites.

Ryuji & Kamo-san

[Honestly, I noted Kamojima because he has a huge impact on both characters and he's just so FUGGING AWESOME!!!]

Art and Volumes: Okay, so the art and # of volumes are the deciding factors of my review. Alas, though, they need to be noted! The art is so freaking beautiful. It needs to be put in a museum. Seriously. The art is somewhat more realistic than today's mainstream manga/anime art. I believe that this incorporates both the old style mangas and new style mangas, yet creates an iconic style by Nakamura-san. This uniquity might be a turn off for more mainstream manga fans, but I find that this shouldn't turn you away from this absolutely amazing story line and set of characters that you will never forget. I included the volume count because I believe that if that there is too many books than the story begins to deviate away from the main plot. For this story line, 19 volumes was fairly good and not too much/not too little.

Overall: Okay. I'm just going to gush.... GODTHISSTORYISSOFUGGINGGOODANDAWESOMEANDIHAVETHISONMYIPHONEANDIREADITALLTHETIMENADOMFGITSAMAZING! (<- If you can read that, you deserve a cookie.) This story is so well planned, and the characters actually develop over time with their emotions and personalities. You don't feel the sudden "Oh wow, they just went from depressive little crybaby to kick-butt hero!" You get the satisfaction of understanding the characters as well as learning a bit about how you could improve yourself. The conflicting emotions, actions, and personalities create a whirlwind of story that just.... It's amazing. Just go read it. Right here -- and here.. Just... DID YOU CLICK IT!? DID YOU SEE I RATED IT FOUR POLISHES!? Okay, so to conclude: Tokyo Crazy Paradise is an action-packed, romantic, and comedic story placed into 19 volumes of awesomeness that I could not turn away from. This story will have you smiling, crying, and wanting to punch the people in Tsukasa's way. IT IS EVERYTHING YOU COULD POSSIBLE WANT IN A STORY! <- UNDERLINED, BOLDED, IN ITALICS, AND CAPPED.

Inked with Brilliance and Love,

Sara

P.S. I'm sorry this is a bit jumbled. It's the VERY FIRST manga review for BNR, and Alisha said I could do them at the beginning of the year along with my Manga Mondays! So, check in every Monday to see the featured presentation! I will be doing a comparison between an Anime and Manga, so stay tuned! If you have a request for an Anime/Manga, feel free to email me at - ladyseratynan[@]gmail[dot]com. Sayonara!

Requested Review: Relatively Honest by Molly Ringle

2011-12-31T13:36:00.000-05:00

Synopsis: Eighteen year-old womanizer Daniel Revelstoke leaves his native London to study at the University of Oregon, dreaming of seducing one American girl after another. But he soon meets a new kind of woman in classmate Julie French. Her cleverness and resistance land Daniel in love for the first time in his life, to his deep confusion.
However, Julie's long-distance boyfriend and a bizarre family secret stand in Daniel's way to winning her. Since he can't quit obsessing over her, he decides to hide a few truths in order to draw closer to her, hoping that maybe she'll return his love and, when she finds out his devious path, forgive him. It's a gamble, but all's fair in love and college.

Review
Plot: I was instantly intrigued by this book because it's rare to read a good male POV that a girl could get into and the plot is about him actually being a womanizer. It was hard not to resist Daniel's charm though even just reading his perspective, and you know everything he's done. Just like every other womanizer, he has been with countless women and had not cared an ounce whether or not he worked out with them. But, once he meets Julie, that's all over. He stops at nothing to try and get her to leave Patrick, her boyfriend, and be with him instead. At first, it starts out with him just wanting her in bed, but he slowly starts wanting more than just a physical thing. Once he starts realizing his feelings for Julie, it's too late to go back after he learns of a deep family secret. He has no idea how to take it and how to tell Julie, but until then, it's his own little dark secret.

Characters: Daniel - Daniel is very charming and smooth. He knows how to use his features (ex. his accent) and when to use them. He is overconfident with himself and will calculate how good of a chance he has with the ladies. After finding out this family secret, he isn't sure what to do with himself and this sends him on an insane spiral.
Julie - Julie is a nice girl that shows signs of longing for Daniel, but doesn't voice them. Daniel is constantly trying to figure her out and never knows exactly how she'll react. She is different from every other girl because she doesn't fall for his tricks.

Cover: The cover doesn't give the book justice. It doesn't truly describe what the book is about other than that it deals with romance. I wish there was more to the cover.

Overall Rating: I give this book a three out four. It has a very complex and dynamic plot that is different from anything I've read. It does test you in what you want and don't want to happen. There are some scenes that were too convenient for the characters but there are other scenes where one character gets screwed over. The last thing I will say about this book is that there is a very controversial topic in this book. It does take some openmindedness to read this book, but I do urge to give it a chance, whether or not you completely agree with it.

Peace and Fangs,

Alisha

ARC Review: Jessica Rules the Dark Side (Jessica #2) by Beth Fantaskey

2011-12-31T13:13:00.002-05:00

Synopsis: It’s one thing to find out you’re a vampire princess. It’s a whole other thing to actually rule. Newly married Jessica Packwood is having a hard enough time feeling regal with her husband, Lucius, at her side. But when evidence in the murder of a powerful elder points to Lucius, sending him into solitary confinement, Jessica is suddenly on her own. Determined to clear her husband’s name, Jessica launches into a full-scale investigation, but hallucinations and nightmares of betrayal keep getting in her way. Jessica knows that with no blood to drink, Lucius’s time is running out. Can she figure out who the real killer is—and whom she can trust—before it’s too late?

Review
Plot: I'm glad I had the pleasure of getting the chance to read this before it comes out. I fell in love with the previous installment and couldn't wait to read this one. The second installment follows Jessica after she has just married Lucius and getting into the swing of becoming a ruler. Jessica is still not used to being a ruler and relies on Lucius to make commands since he's used to it. But, after an elder is murdered and Lucius is blamed, it is left to Jessica to uncover the real murderer and why they would frame Lucius. Along with Jessica's troubles, we get to follow her best friend, Mindy, and her love affair with Raniero and her suspicions of Jessica's cousin. The different POVs did worry me but after reading them, I love each one. There was never one that I got bored with, plus the male POVs (Lucius and Raniero) were very funny to read.

Characters: Jessica - Jessica is one of my favorite characters. She's very strong and brave, but she isn't used to being in the position she's in now. She wants to be the wife Lucius deserves and slowly molds herself into that role, not only because she needs to but because that's what she's destined to.
Mindy - Mindy is a breath of fresh air since her biggest troubles are trying to win back the vampire she lost. She goes to see Jessica in her time of need and tries to support her while Lucius is in confinement. Mindy is a very strong character in herself and I feel like there is more to her story.

Cover: I love how the covers of the series are cohesive to one another. One depicting Jessica's innocence and the other showing Jessica fall into her position as a royal. The cover is very beautiful and sums up a few key points in the story.

Overall Rating: I have to give this book a three out of four. I thought the book was a great conclusion on Jessica's story and maybe a spin-off for Mindy. The book gave a nice journey for Jessica to see that she does deserve to be a royal and she can be one. I loved the POVs between the four characters and the surprise twist of who the actual murderer was. I would recommend any vampire or romance fans to read this series; it has a great balance of romance and action/drama.

Peace and Fangs,
Alisha

Requested Review: The Apocalypse Gene by Suki Michelle and Carlyle Clark

2011-12-31T12:25:00.001-05:00

Synopsis: Global pandemic is raging.
Olivya Wright-Ono's once loving home has been converted to a hospice for the dying. Her ability to see auras forces her to witness, with agonizing detail, the vibrant colors of life consumed by malignancy.
The beautiful and troubled, Mikah, is an elite Empath in the ancient Kindred clan, led by the brooding, ever-morphing, monster named Prime. Mikah has learned a terrible truth . . . the plague is linked to Kindred origins. When Olivya sees evidence of disease creeping into her mother's aura, she has no one to turn to but Mikah. Can he unearth the Kindred secrets and find a cure?
Can she trust this boy whose power allows him to manipulate her very emotions? With her mother's life, and that of the world, in the balance, Olivya and Mikah embark on a quest to stop the Pandemic, only to discover it is far, far more than a mere disease . . .

Review
Plot: I haven't read a lot of dystopia/post-apocalyptic, but this book has changed my sights on the genre. The book follows Olivya and Mikah who both have special abilities during a time of a great pandemic. As they try and find a cure after Olivya sees her mother is sick, they have to fight new creatures and handle their abilities to find the cure they've been looking for. There is action around every corner and is descriptive enough to let the reader imagine what the fight would look like. The imagery in the book is so vivid I could see when Olivya was walking through the streets or when she first sees Mikah. It is a story that consists of a lot of technology and characters that are different creatures. There are very unique names and descriptions for each one that you will get confused. However, as the story progresses, you will be able to know whose who and what's what. The plot is very complex and suspenseful that I couldn't stop reading once I started. Olivya and Mikah bring a certain zest to the book that adds to the unfolding of the plot.

Characters: Olivya - Olivya is a African-American and Japanese girl, which I was glad to see. It is rare to find minority main characters and Michelle and Clark did such a good job on it. They gave her enough dignity to make her embrace her uniqueness but also not let it rule the plot line. I loved her courageousness and bravery that she had from the beginning. She doesn't let anyone tell her what to do and she protects those she cares for.
Mikah - Mikah is different from many other love interests I've read. He's coped up and barely has many people to talk to and even then they're not the best people to confide in. He knows only the life he was born into and even though he's different from the rest, he still doesn't know if he is good or bad. This comes as a constant reminder of him whenever he sees Olivya. He's choosing between what life he wants to live and what's best for them.

Cover: The cover does not do the book the justice it deserves. I love the integration of the lightning and DNA strand to serve the purpose of what the pandemic is.

Overall Rating: I'm giving this book a three out of four. It is a fantastic dystopia book and gives a look at what a pandemic can create and what the healthy would have to do for the sick. It also does a nice job of creating a new world for us and new creatures to think about. There are many characters in the book, but it is only a small flaw in a wonderful plot.

Peace and Fangs,
Alisha

Review: Starcrossed (Starcrossed #1) by Josephine Angelini

2011-12-31T11:50:00.002-05:00

Synopsis: How do you defy destiny?
Helen Hamilton has spent her entire sixteen years trying to hide how different she is—no easy task on an island as small and sheltered as Nantucket. And it's getting harder. Nightmares of a desperate desert journey have Helen waking parched, only to find her sheets damaged by dirt and dust. At school she's haunted by hallucinations of three women weeping tears of blood . . . and when Helen first crosses paths with Lucas Delos, she has no way of knowing they're destined to play the leading roles in a tragedy the Fates insist on repeating throughout history.
As Helen unlocks the secrets of her ancestry, she realizes that some myths are more than just legend. But even demigod powers might not be enough to defy the forces that are both drawing her and Lucas together—and trying to tear them apart.

Review
Plot: I'm a huge mythology buff, so once I saw this book...I had to get it! The plot consists of a girl named Helen who lives on an island, Nantucket, and hears the gossip of a new family that moved there. She isn't interested in seeing them and even has anger towards her best friend when she talks about them. It isn't until she sees Lucas that she knows her life won't be normal again. Her feelings for him are manipulated by the three weeping women and there's only one way to get rid of those feelings. As the two see more of each other, they just want to part because of their feelings and their ancestors' history. With Helen learning more about herself and her powers, she grows closer to Lucas. It seems everyone and everything is tearing them apart, and the gods are not the only ones trying to break them apart. This romance is definitely a rollercoaster for the readers and will cause you to be torn yourself.

Characters: Helen - Helen doesn't want to be seen and will do anything to make sure she's just another shadow. Once she meets Lucas, this all goes down the hole and sees in everyone's sights. She is a character that develops throughout the book and decides what's best for others rather than just herself.
Lucas - Lucas is a character I could swoon over for days. He doesn't hide his feelings for Helen and has a strong protection over her. He cannot see her hurt nor does he want to be the one to hurt her. Since he has been exposed to his family's past, he tries to help Helen along the way and show her how demigods behave. He has his own secrets and slowly opens himself up to Helen.

Cover: I love the cover to this book. To me, it fits the mythology theme and shows some of the powers of the demigods: water and wind.
Overall Rating: I'm giving this book a three out of four because it was an amazing book and held it's own version of Greek mythology. It leaves you wanting more and definitely asking questions about the characters. There are surprises and twists around every corner, so the book never dies down. My only thing to say about this book is that it does have a slow start, but it does give a nice backdrop about the characters and the life they live before everythign changes.

Peace and Fangs,

Alisha

Review: Clockwork Angel (Infernal Devices #1) by Cassandra Clare

2011-12-31T11:32:00.001-05:00

Synopsis: Magic is dangerous--but love is more dangerous still.

When sixteen-year-old Tessa Gray crosses the ocean to find her brother, her destination is England, the time is the reign of Queen Victoria, and something terrifying is waiting for her in London's Downworld, where vampires, warlocks and other supernatural folk stalk the gaslit streets. Only the Shadowhunters, warriors dedicated to ridding the world of demons, keep order amidst the chaos.

Kidnapped by the mysterious Dark Sisters, members of a secret organization called The Pandemonium Club, Tessa soon learns that she herself is a Downworlder with a rare ability: the power to transform, at will, into another person. What's more, the Magister, the shadowy figure who runs the Club, will stop at nothing to claim Tessa's power for his own.
Friendless and hunted, Tessa takes refuge with the Shadowhunters of the London Institute, who swear to find her brother if she will use her power to help them. She soon finds herself fascinated by--and torn between--two best friends: James, whose fragile beauty hides a deadly secret, and blue-eyed Will, whose caustic wit and volatile moods keep everyone in his life at arm's length...everyone, that is, but Tessa. As their search draws them deep into the heart of an arcane plot that threatens to destroy the Shadowhunters, Tessa realizes that she may need to choose between saving her brother and helping her new friends save the world...and that love may be the most dangerous magic of all.

Review
Plot: After much research, I was finally to obtain this book at the library. I was excited to finally another series with Shadowhunters. Clockwork Angel is the first installment in the Infernal Devices series and it follows Tessa who just arrived to England. Right when she gets there, she's kidnapped by the Dark Sisters and told that she has the power to shift into other people. She only complies because she hears that they have her brother and they'll let her see him if she goes along with their plan. Before long, she is rescued by Shadowhunters and taken to the Institute where she meets Will and Jem. They have a bond between one another, Jem tries to keep Will out of trouble and Will tries to care for Jem when he's sick. The book follows their search for Tessa's brother, a plan that one Downworlder is developing, and a budding romance. This gives a whole knew take on Shadowhunters and how they lived in a different location and time period, but still let's the characters have the same snark and spunkiness we expect from Clare's books.

Characters: Tessa - Tessa is a character I easily related to. She was used to her life before that the discoveries she makes about herself and her family are hard for her to accept. She isn't used to how the Shadowhunters live and the attitudes of some of them...*cough* Will. I definitely started to love reading about her and her emotions throughout each experience.
Will and Jem - Will is definitely irritating but lovable. I did get tired of him pushing away Tessa and his actions towards her, however, there was his sense of charm that seemed to keep me hooked. Jem is too cute and compassionate in this book. I loved when he would stick up for himself as well as stick up for Will and Tessa. Even though he is not fully healthy, he still can stand on his own and help those he cares for.

Cover: I always love Cassandra's covers for her books. This one reminds me somewhat of Clockwork Orange with London in the background and the boy wearing a top hat. To me, I see that the boy is Will and his tipping of the top hat shows his charm even though he is a Shadowhunter.

Overall Rating: I'm giving this book a four out of four. I absolutely loved the book and couldn't think of a better plot line to start off a new series. It does have Clare's signatures like a possible love triangle and elaborate characters we will fall in love with. If you're thinking of reading this series and have read MI, I would happily say to hurry and get this series. If you haven't read MI, this series isn't twisted into the plot line of MI, you can read either one first and not be lost in the other.

Peace and Fangs,
Alisha

Review: Revolution by Jennifer Donnelly

2011-12-03T12:19:00.000-05:00

Synopsis: BROOKLYN: Andi Alpers is on the edge. She’s angry at her father for leaving, angry at her mother for not being able to cope, and heartbroken by the loss of her younger brother, Truman. Rage and grief are destroying her. And she’s about to be expelled from Brooklyn Heights’ most prestigious private school when her father intervenes. Now Andi must accompany him to Paris for winter break.
PARIS: Alexandrine Paradis lived over two centuries ago. She dreamed of making her mark on the Paris stage, but a fateful encounter with a doomed prince of France cast her in a tragic role she didn’t want—and couldn’t escape.

Two girls, two centuries apart. One never knowing the other. But when Andi finds Alexandrine’s diary, she recognizes something in her words and is moved to the point of obsession. There’s comfort and distraction for Andi in the journal’s antique pages—until, on a midnight journey through the catacombs of Paris, Alexandrine’s words transcend paper and time, and the past becomes suddenly, terrifyingly present.

Jennifer Donnelly, author of the award-winning novel A Northern Light, artfully weaves two girls’ stories into one unforgettable account of life, loss, and enduring love. Revolution spans centuries and vividly depicts the eternal struggles of the human heart.

Review
Plot: Revolution looks at the life of Andi Alpers who is still grieving over the death of her brother, taking care of her distant mother, and trying to figure out where she belongs. When her father finds out she is about to be expelled, he tells her that she will come with him to Paris. It was hard for me to get through this book in the first section. Not because it was bad, it was just too hard to hear her story and thoughts. Andi's gone through a lot and we're reading the point in her life where she is at the end of her rope. She's depressed and suicidal. I've never read a book that had aspects of suicidal tendencies unless it was the focus of the book. It was definitely an interesting aspect to see how Andi's life consists of so much pain and heartbreak, but yet that isn't the theme of the book. It was hard for me to focus on the historical aspect of it because I wanted to know more about Andi's life and, especially, her budding romance. But, I did love when we got to see the French Revolution era, and how vividly Donnelly made these characters and how much depth she put to them.

Characters: Andi - She was definitely a whirlwind. I felt that she had such conflicting personality traits because of the experiences she went through. She didn't want to get over her brother's death because she felt it was her own fault, however, she started seeing herself come into her own and couldn't help but smile at that. I felt for her because she felt she was cheating her brother and mother for being happy without them.

Cover: I love the cover of this book; it was one of the main reasons I first picked it up. I was a little studious with the cover. After awhile, I could see the similarities of the Andi and Alexandrine, but also there lives shaped into it. They both have brown eyes, brown hair, milky skin, but you can see Andi's despair and Alexandrine's slight happiness.

Overall Rating: I'm giving this book a three out of four nail polishes. I loved the depth to the book and how Donnelly made the book more than historical fiction. She had many other themes in here that readers could relate with like family, love, heartbreak, loss, grief, bravery, and so on. I would recommend this to anyone who is a history buff or loves a refreshing read. This book has given me a new outlook on historical fiction.

Peace and Fangs,
Alisha

Review: Silver and Stone (Bloodlines #1) by J.D. Thompson Requested

2011-11-25T21:21:00.001-05:00

Synopsis: Welcome to high school high society hell, where last season’s slingbacks can warrant a lunch table demotion, the wrong date will knock you off the it-list and behind every pair of oversized Chanel sunglasses lies a secret people are dying to keep.
As if senior year at Weatherford Preparatory School wasn’t hard enough, sixteen year old Alexis Bardolph had to add school outcast to the curriculum.

A new found notoriety following a family scandal, her lacrosse star boy-friend dumping her for a former BFF and a string of perpetually bad hair days were among the many things going wrong in her already turbulent teenage life.
But when the haunting nightmares that have plagued her since childhood begin to take an eerily tangible form and several Holler Creek residents are reported missing, Alexis can’t help but wonder if there isn’t more to her hellish dreams than meets the eye.
The unexpected arrival of a mysterious and dangerously handsome new student ultimately leads Alexis to troubling truths that not even her wildest imagination could have conjured.

Review
Plot: This book definitely sucked me in. I was very skeptical of the book because popular girl gone outcast seemed sort of cliche to me. But, Thompson did not take it in the direction I expected, which was awesome! I can't say much without giving away too much, but Alexis definitely has some baggage on her shoulders. She has no friends, no boyfriend, and basically no family. She walks through the hallways of her high school misunderstood and haunted with her past. I couldn't possibly fathom what that past was, but once it came up...I could not believe it. I connected with Alexis immediately and didn't want to really think that what some of the other characters were saying was true. But, her past does come to light over the course of dreams she has and we find out the real truth to what happened. Alexis' past is not the only thing she has to deal with though. A new guy she meets is anything but ordinary, and brings out something Alexis never thought she'd have again: happiness. I love the integration of the paranormal and mundane aspects of life into one story. It definitely worked for this book because you were not just wondering what happened with Alexis but what is up with the mysterious guy, Lucas.

Characters: Alexis - She's definitely a different heroine I usually run into. Alexis is at her wit's end and just wants peace, but can not find it with all the weight she carries. After some time, it was hard to get through how depressed she was. I felt bad for her and wanted to know what it was that made her this way, so I could understand. But, it did take time to come out. Once she meets Lucas, I was finally able to see her real personality and who she really was. During her depression, I did not get to see any of that, but after the first time they meet, it slowly starts to seep through.
Lucas - I love him! I love when guys in books are the Knight and Shining Armor and are okay with everything. But, it was hard to see someone be as accepting as he was. We do get to slowly see his secrets unravel though and what he's hiding from Alexis. He doesn't get by without hurting Alexis at least once though, which was definitely a heartbreaking scene.

Cover: The cover does not do it justice. I like that the girl reflects Alexis, but it doesn't describe the book or it's plot. This is an amazing book and I wish that could resonate to the cover.

Overall Rating: I'm giving this book a three out of four. This book blew my expectations and engrossed me so much, I'm anxious to know when Thompson will be releasing the second installment. If you like realistic fiction, romance, or paranormal...pick up this book. I love it and can't explain how excited I was when I saw it was part of a series. There are so many secrets revealed and stones left unturned that I need more. This was definitely a great read and I'm glad that Thompson requested this to BNR!

If you would like to look more at this book, click here!

Peace and Fangs,
Alisha

Review: Crescendo (Hush, Hush #2) by Becca Fitzpatrick

2011-11-25T20:51:00.002-05:00

Synopsis: Nora Grey's life is still far from perfect. Surviving an attempt on her life wasn't pleasant, but at least she got a guardian angel out of it: a mysterious, magnetic, gorgeous guardian angel. But, despite his role in her life, Patch has been acting anything but angelic. He's more elusive than ever and even worse, he's started spending time with Nora's arch-enemy, Marcie Millar.

Nora would have hardly noticed Scott Parnell, an old family friend who has moved back to town, if Patch hadnt been acting so distant. Even with Scott's totally infuriating attitude Nora finds herself drawn to him - despite her lingering feeling that he's hiding something.

Haunted by images of her murdered father, and questioning whether her nephilim bloodline has anything to do with his death, Nora puts herself increasingly in dangerous situations as she desperately searches for answers. But maybe some things are better left buried, because the truth could destroy everything - and everyone - she trusts.

Review
Plot: I'm glad to finally get around to this review because I have been dying to talk to you all about it. Since the first installment, Nora and Patch have become comfortable in their relationship and can finally be in harmony...for the most part. Their relationship is not keen with everyone and with Patch's secrecy and behavior, it drives a wedge between them. Of course, there is always a reason to the madness and Crescendo does not disappoint with revealing the reasons why and new surprises for the readers. I was slightly confused with a few scenes in the book because the characters would act on decisions they made and you wouldn't know the reason why until afterwards. However, it didn't mask what the rest of the book had to offer. This book focused more on Nora's Dad and why Scott is acting so different. All the while, Nora needs to know why Patch is being so different and why the heck he was hanging out with Marcie. I was dying to know as well, and Fitzpatrick keeps us hanging on a thread until the final chapters.

Characters: Nora - Nora was very empowered this book. But, this works for and against her. She's more confident and courageous, however, she gives Patch an ultimatum that essentially harms their relationship. There were some points I wanted to shake her and tell her to just cough up her pride and tell Patch how she feels about him. Like always though, I can see the reasons why she acts the way she does because of one person: Patch.
Patch - In this book, I could not even describe how much my jaw dropped at some of the things he said. He does have his reasons, but it was hard to think someone could say those things to someone they love. In each book in this series, it just seems required that I want to slap Patch most of the book. Then, he does something so sweet, I tear up. He doesn't just send Nora on a roller coaster of emotions.
Scott - I have to talk about Scott because even though he's not always in the book, he's a great character. Not in personality, just a very...different character to look at. I'm not sure exactly why Fitzpatrick put him into this but it has to be for good reason. He did develop a sort of relationship with Nora, but I'm not sure on what that exactly is either. They definitely get into it with one another, but they do have a friendly affection towards one another. He's kind of a loose cannon and someone Nora doesn't typically hangout with but I do hope he is in the next installment.

Cover: Again, I love these covers. I looked up the word crescendo and found that it means increasing in loudness. The lightning on the cover symbolizes that and, to me, Nora is in the rain because this book is a very depressing story for her. Her rocky relationship and the mystery of her dad's death are two things that are slowly breaking her apart.

Overall Rating: I have not given this to a book in some time, but I have to give this book a four out of four. I absolutely love this series and recommend anyone who loves romance and/or paranormal fiction to read this series. The characters take you on a whirl wind and each time, I'm left wanting more. For those who've only read Hush, Hush, read this book. It carries the series so well and develops not only the characters but the plotline as well.

Peace and Fangs,

Alisha

Review: City of Fallen Angels (Mortal Instruments #4) by Cassandra Clare

2011-11-18T21:15:00.001-05:00

Synopsis: The Mortal War is over, and Clary Fray is back home in New York, excited about all the possibilities before her. She's training to become a Shadowhunter and to use her unique power. Her mother is getting married to the love of her life. Downworlders and Shadowhunters are at peace at last. And—most important of all—Clary can finally call Jace her boyfriend.

But nothing comes without a price.

Someone is murdering the Shadowhunters who used to be in Valentine’s Circle, provoking tensions between Downworlders and Shadowhunters that could lead to a second bloody war. Clary’s best friend, Simon, can’t help her. His mother just found out he’s a vampire and now he’s homeless. Everywhere he turns, someone wants him on their side—along with the power of the curse wrecking his life. And they’re willing to do anything to get what they want. At the same time he’s dating two beautiful, dangerous girls—neither of whom knows about the other.

When Jace begins to pull away from Clary without explaining why, she is forced to delve into the heart of a mystery whose solution reveals her worst nightmare: She herself has set in motion a terrible chain of events that could lead to her losing everything she loves. Even Jace.

Love. Blood. Betrayal. Revenge. The stakes are higher than ever in City of Fallen Angels.

Review
Plot: I was very hesitant going into this book because I heard that Simon would be a major part of the story. I loved Simon, but I was so used to Clary being in the spotlight that it would be weird to read about someone else. However, Clare did an amazing job with Simon's story. It seemed sensible with sharing his story since he was a vampire with a Shadowhunter best friend and two girls vying for his attention, who have no idea about each other. The plot continues with the other characters' stories as well as new secrets revealed, which is a nice breather rather than reading one person's story. But, Simon was interesting to read about because usually with vampire stories, they leave their families behind or their families were never really around. With Simon's family, he tries to think of a way to tell them, but is too afraid of what they'll think of him. Also, with Simon's abilities, more evil tries to capture Simon's power, which is great for a wedding!

Characters: Simon - His storyline was great! I felt like it went in the right direction, however, I felt like it was sort of predictable. I loved that he wasn't afraid to say how he felt and show his love for Clary. When it came to his love triangle, I was very confused. I won't give away spoilers, but it was very obvious which girl he truly liked and the other one he just dated because he still cared for her. Even if he did end up with the same girl, I wish the road there would be a little less predictable.
Clary - Overall, Clary still has a very important storyline in here with dealing with her new Shadowhunter status and Jace's weird behavior. I felt like I was Clary when dealing with Jace because even though you knew things she didn't know, you were still trying to figure out his motives and thoughts in certain scenes.

Cover: Clare never disappoints us with brilliant covers. I love Simon and Clary on here and the colors. my only problem is with the dress Clary is wearing. It doesn't necessarily change my mind on the cover; it just doesn't seem as beautiful as described in the book.

Overall Rating: I'm giving this book a three out of four. This book was not the best out of the series, but it was nice to get a different perspective and character to look at. Clare appeased my reluctance to read this book. Even though this book didn't fully hit my expectations, I'm so excited for the last two installments. If you haven't read the MI series yet, I would advise you to. It is the kind of series that hits every different type of audience and has something everyone can relate to.

Peace and Fangs,
Alisha

Review: Twilight Saga ~ Breaking Dawn, Part 1

2011-11-17T22:59:00.002-05:00

Synopsis: The Quileute and the Volturi close in on expecting parents Edward and Bella, whose unborn child poses different threats to the wolf pack and vampire coven.

Plot: OH MY GOD. OH MY GOD. YES PEOPLE, BOYS AND GIRLS, MOTHERS AND FATHERS! HERE IS BREAKING DAWN PART UNO!! Seriously folks. This movie does, in fact, follow the novel quite well. Beautiful directed and created, acting superb, just... Ah. Seriously, but I'll put my latest opinion in the Overview. Now, basically if you've read the book, you know what happens. I won't shoot out any spoilers on how it ends or where it ends exactly in the book. For those who have not read Breaking Dawn then you will find yourself where Eclipse had let you drift off. Bella and Edward's wedding ensues, which is quite obvious to those who like to click the repeat button on Youtube when you watch the trailer or just happen to see it every time you change the channel on your TV. Bella and Edward go on their FREAKING AWESOME honeymoon that leads to... Well.. She is PREGGO. Yes. Bella, you're freaking 18. What the hecks!? Well, basically, Breaking Dawn shows the birthing process of the young child as well as the hardships about Jacob and his posse and Edward and the Cullens.

Characters: Okay, I'm not gonna list all the incredible actors and actresses within this film, but I will shine one star that seems to have had a hard time pleasing the fans. Can you guess?
KRISTEN STEWART! Oh god. She was.... FABULOUS! I can't even describe it. If you have been seriously annoyed with this chick for the last three movies, like moi, then you will DEFINITELY not be disappointed with her work in this film. Even though she has those stupid and annoying breathing parts and like awkward looks, she really has improved over the last three films. Although I am sad to say it took THREE FREAKING FILMS for her to improve, I think, as a young actress, she is doing much better with her acting. I would also like to point out Taylor Lautner. I have always liked Taylor in the Twilight Saga but sometimes, he just seemed stiff, like he wasn't comfortable. In Abduction, he actually wasn't that bad, but I'd have to say: Good job, Lautner! His emotions and his facial expressions were improved immensely from the other films, where he doesn't seem like a robot who seems to only be ANGRY and ANGSTY for more than half the movie. I'd have to say, a lot of the actors and actresses improved and seemed to have adjusted to this film. Kudos to you Mr. Director!

Poster: Like the other posters, I like it. Shows the three main characters, aka Bella, Edward, and Jacob, as well as the problematic bunch within this Part One, which is the wolf pack.

Overview: I'm just gonna gush right now.... OMGOMGOMGOMGOGMIWAHYJUGINE5THAENHJKJA I FREAKING LOVE THIS MOVIE! THIS IS THE BEST OUT OF THEM ALL SO FAR AND I AM FREAKING FREAKING FREAKING FREAKINGGGGG EXCITED FOR THE SECOND PART! *breathes*... Okay. Back to reality, the movie was incredibly well done with each scene seeming to be weaved well together. The emotions and actions of each individual beautifully creates a masterpiece. I sincerely believe this was the best so far. Even though there aren't a lot of action scenes like Eclipse, Breaking Dawn creates a wonderfully enriched world of fantasy, capturing the audience with a beautiful story and a cliffhanger that will make you desire more. I congratulate you, Twilight Saga; I give you a 4/4 polishes.

P.S. AT THE END OF THE MOVIE, DO NOT LEAVE YET!!!! THERE IS A SPECIAL SCENE THAT WILL LEAD YOU TO THE NEXT MOVIE AND SEE THOSE YOU HAVEN'T SEEN FOR A WHILE NOW. ;)

Inked with Brilliance, Love, and Apologies for being so un-punctual with my reviews,

Sara

Review: Betrayed (House of Night #2) by P.C. and Kristin Cast

2011-11-07T20:41:00.001-05:00

Synopsis: Fledgling vampyre Zoey Redbird has managed to settle in at the House of Night. She's come to terms with the vast powers the vampyre goddess, Nyx, has given her, and is getting a handle on being the new Leader of the Dark Daughters. Best of all, Zoey finally feels like she belongs--like she really fits in. She actually has a boyfriend…or two. Then the unthinkable happens: Human teenagers are being killed, and all the evidence points to the House of Night. While danger stalks the humans from Zoey's old life, she begins to realize that the very powers that make her so unique might also threaten those she loves. Then, when she needs her new friends the most, death strikes the House of Night, and Zoey must find the courage to face a betrayal that could break her heart, her soul, and jeopardize the very fabric of her world.

Review

Plot: I was happy to finally continue this series and see if the series would go on a good path that the first book left us off with. I was, however, very disappointed with the second installment. I was hoping that we got to see Zoey grow up to be the Dark Daughers' leader and grow into her own. It was hard to see if any of that was happening with the many immature situations going on. I wanted to like this book as much as I liked the first installment, but I couldn't get over the teen angst that was evident in all of the characters. The plot line was intriguing and is very well-developed. I could definitely see issues that will pop up in the third installment and new tensions forming.

Characters: Zoey - There are so many characters, I'll stick with Zoey for now. I loved Zoey in the first book. She was very feisty and passionate about the ones she loved and helping others. It was nice to see a strong character and comfortable with herself. In this installment, I saw that Zoey start to diminish. She seemed to start lacking maturity or just thinking through her decisions. I'm hoping it will get better as the series goes on, but this book did not do her justice.

Cover: I love the series' covers. The intricate designs and dark hues truly make the reader grab the atmosphere of what House of Night is like. Plus, they do an amazing job with getting the models to look like the actual characters.

Overall Rating: I'm giving this book a two out of four. I couldn't get into it and was questioning almost every action Zoey or someone else made. I wish I could get into this series, but after this book, I don't think I can continue. The Casts do an amazing job with their descriptions and writing, but it wasn't enough to keep me drawn in.

Peace and Fangs,

Alisha

Review: The Forbidden Game (The Forbidden Game #1-3) by L.J. Smith

2011-11-01T15:24:00.006-04:00

"This spectacular repackaged bind-up of a beloved trilogy begins with a board game. What was supposed to be an evening of celebration with friends, fun, and games becomes a night of danger, drama, and obsessive love. Because when Jenny, her boyfriend, Tom, and their friends begin to play the Game, it comes to life. Suddenly they are in a dark world where Julian, the gorgeous guy who sold Jenny the Game, rules as Prince of the Shadows. Julian makes their darkest nightmares realities—and he will do anything to claim the beautiful Jenny as his prize. The Game is real, and the only way to win is to face your most secret fears. You cannot quit—to lose the Game is to lose your life. And that is just the beginning…."Plot: This is technically three books into one and the description above really only describes the first book. This book was definitely a page turner, though! It is about all the kids going through their biggest fears, which makes you feel right there with them as they battle aliens, the Lurker, and the Shadow King.

Characters: This definitely had a great "cast." Together, Jenny, Tom, Audrey, Michael, Dee, Summer, and Zach all go through each others fears and by the end there is nothing they don't know about each other. They were all strong from the shy, secretive Zach to overly dramatic Audrey.

Cover: I have to say I didn't actually like the cover because that is not how I imagine Jenny (guessing that's who it's supposed to be). So even though that's probably what she looks like, I like having covers that leave us to imagine.

Overall Rating: This book is definitely worth four bottles. READ THIS BOOK! I also really enjoy L.J.Smith's other books. I can honestly say I have never read the popular series she has, but my favorites are the ones not getting the same credit. This is an amazing read that will keep you on edge every step of the way.

Sweet Daydream,
Brooke

Review: Beneath the Skin (The Maker's Song #3) by Adrian Phoenix

2011-10-19T23:55:00.000-04:00

Synopsis: THE FATE OF THREE WORLDS...

The dark pieces of vampire rock star Dante Baptiste's past are violently emerging, and it is only a matter of time before the Fallen discover he is the creawdwr they have sought for thousands of years. The destruction he left behind in Oregon threatens to reveal his identity as Fallen Maker and True Blood, exposing the young nightkind to shadowy predators -- mortal and supernatural -- who will do whatever it takes to win his favor...or destroy him.

RESTS IN DANTE'S HANDS.

When beautiful FBI special agent Heather Wallace went AWOL on assignment, she chose irresistible Dante over the shady government forces that now stalk them both. Heather has her own secrets of the past to uncover, but she is also the only one who can hold her nightkind lover together when his dangerous quest for the truth threatens to send him over the edge. And as she and Dante fight for their survival, she realizes they must work together to protect their future -- before his mysterious destiny tears them apart....

Review
Plot: I was so excited when I was able to finally get my hands on this book and get closer to being up-to-date with the series. The book quickly goes into where we left off in In Cold Blood, Heather and the gang continue to try to get back to New Orleans and figuring out how to control Dante's power. It was definitely filled with twist and turns that I was hoping for. We find out more about what Dante is and how his mind works along with his developing powers. I loved the parts where Dante flashed between reality and dreams because we got to see how bad Dante is becoming. I could feel myself getting tense and anxious from Dante's mind and could understand why he has constant seizures and migraines. But, Heather is his light, and when she was around him, it was hard not to see why he loves to be around her and the silence she brings. However, I didn't get as much romance as I wanted. The romantic scenes were nice and delicious, but it wasn't enough compared to the other books. Phoenix is always very elegant with her books with creating a plot along with a few steamy scenes, but I wish there were a few more. But, this book is still enough to keep me craving for the fourth installment.

Characters: Heather - Heather is an amazing character. I do love how she has progressed from being distant and closed off to being more emotional and letting not only Dante but others inside her head. She is very protective of Dante and that seemed more prevalent in this installment. We could see that she did have a jealous side, but it was never spoken too much about to discover her insecurities.
Dante - Of course, we all love Dante! (It's hard not to.) But, I felt a little distant from him. I did love the scenes with seeing into his mind and dreams. However, when it came to his relationship with Heather, it didn't seem like it was his priority. I wouldn't expect it to be though. He's trying to figure out what he is and how to control it along with finding out what happened with Lucien and getting away from almost every creature on earth.

Cover: I love the colors of this color. It is very dark and sinister in the background with Heather on the cover. I don't really like the wig the model is wearing, but I do like how the covers usually translate the characters.

Overall Rating: I will give this book a three out of four. I absolutely love this series and can't wait to see what Phoenix has in store for us fans! This installment was a great bridge to what is to come in the series. I was shocked by some of the turns the book takes, but it's definitely nice turns. The plot is progressing with not only people finding out about Dante being a True Blood and Fallen Maker but also him evolving into his own. This is a must read series and I commend Phoenix for such an amazing series!

Peace and Fangs,

Alisha

Review: Halo (Halo #1) by Alexandra Adornetto

2011-10-16T23:16:00.005-04:00

"Three angles are sent by Heaven to bring good to a world falling under the influence of darkness: Gabriel, the warrior; Ivy, the healer; and Bethany, the youngest and most human. They work hard to conceal their luminous glow, their superhuman powers, and their wings. Then Bethany meets Xavier Woods, and they are unable to resist their attractions to each other. But the angles' mission is urgent, and dark forces are threatening. Will love ruin Bethany or save her?"
Plot: I liked the whole idea of angels coming to save the human race. There were a lot of comments saying how it was "too religious" but if you're expecting it like I was, it honestly isn't any more religious than any other book about angles and Heaven. They definitely mention it, but it's not an overload.
Characters: I liked all three angles of course, but I really liked Xavier. He seemed to just always be there when she needed him. He was so loyal and their relationship was actually really sweet.
Cover: I have to say, that's what drew me in the first place. I like how it's a silhouette and the sun just makes it seem so pretty.
Overall Rating: I think I'm going to give this a 2/4. It was a good read, but it took me forever to read it. If you can get to the end half of it (around when Jake comes in) then it gets more interesting, but I actually started this a long time ago, then put it down. It was worth it for me, but it's not as though I'm forcing my friends to read it.
Sweet Daydreams,
Brooke

Review: The Hunger Games (The Hunger Games #1) by Suzanne Collins

2011-10-08T19:13:00.001-04:00

Synopsis: In the ruins of a place once known as North America lies the nation of Panem, a shining Capitol surrounded by twelve outlying districts. The Capitol is harsh and cruel and keeps the districts in line by forcing them all to send one boy and one girl between the ages of twelve and eighteen to participate in the annual Hunger Games, a fight to the death on live TV.

Sixteen-year-old Katniss Everdeen, who lives alone with her mother and younger sister, regards it as a death sentence when she steps forward to take her sister's place in the Games. But Katniss has been close to dead before—and survival, for her, is second nature. Without really meaning to, she becomes a contender. But if she is to win, she will have to start making choices that will weigh survival against humanity and life against love.

Review
Plot: I've heard so much about this book and with the movie fast approaching, I decided I would give this a try. At first, when I started to read it, I didn't understand hype or anything. I was intrigued by what became of North America and how even though it is in the future, it doesn't seem like it by District Twelve. However, you start to understand why they don't have much cable or even water sometimes. The government controls everything and that is where the Games come into play, to make sure everyone stays in line. Once Katniss came forward in place of her sister, the ball started to roll...including with Peeta. It wasn't until we met Cinna where I started to get emotionally involved with the book. He observes Katniss and expresses her personality through her wardrobe and the outfits she describes sound so extravagant and glamorous that I can not wait to see what they look like in the film. As the Games start, I was clenching my teeth and hoping for the best for Katniss. While reading it, you are completely engrossed in the Games and start choosing the characters you like and which ones you could do without. And, Collins, is not shy not tell the details of someones death or the wounds on opponents. I could see myself cheering when Katniss avoided death or finally found water! The plot is centered around the Games, but you can see that there is more to come after the Games, including Katniss' rebellious moments.

Characters: Katniss - I was very wary of her when I started to read the book. She was a very closed off character and didn't acknowledge her emotions, which I had seen before. But, it was so hard for me not to love her. She had a hard life and was the bread winner of the family. Plus, she went in the place of her sister, so that gave a million check marks by her name for me.
Peeta - Peeta is very funny and a relief compared to the constant high stakes emotions Katniss has. However, I can not see him as a good fit for Katniss. He says the cutest things sometimes, but when it came to the action and helping Katniss, he fell flat. It was hard to see him just stand by while Katniss kicked butt and helped them survive. I'm all for girl power, but Peeta seemed to just keep getting hurt.

Cover: I love the Mockingjay pin. The description of them seemed to fit Katniss and her journey. But, I liked it mostly because it signified her district and that she was representing a group of people who are looked upon as weak.

Overall Rating: I am giving this book a three out of four. The plot is definitely enticing and I am even more excited for this series, but it had a slow start. It seemed to take forever for just Katniss to get to the Capitol. The book, however, is an amazing read and this is a great book to read if you're into dystopia and action. Plus, it has the romance that us love addicts want.

Peace and Fangs,
Alisha

October 2011 Book Releases

2011-10-01T13:51:00.000-04:00

Angels of Darkness (Guild Hunter #4.5)
by Ilona Andrews, Nalini Singh, Meljean Brook, Sharon Shinn

They soar through the night, unearthly creatures of legends and lore. Four masters of urban fantasy and paranormal romance explore the rapture of the heavens above, and the darkness below in four all-new stories of angels and guardians, and good and evil.

Date Released: Oct. 4, 2011
Website l Pre-order

Eve (The Eve Trilogy #1)
by Anna Carey

The year is 2032, sixteen years after a deadly virus—and the vaccine intended to protect against it—wiped out most of the earth’s population. The night before eighteen-year-old Eve’s graduation from her all-girls school she discovers what really happens to new graduates, and the horrifying fate that awaits her.

Fleeing the only home she’s ever known, Eve sets off on a long, treacherous journey, searching for a place she can survive. Along the way she encounters Caleb, a rough, rebellious boy living in the wild. Separated from men her whole life, Eve has been taught to fear them, but Caleb slowly wins her trust...and her heart. He promises to protect her, but when soldiers begin hunting them, Eve must choose between true love and her life.

Date Released: Oct. 4, 2011
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Silence (Hush, Hush #3)
by Becca Fitzpatrick

The noise between Patch and Nora is gone. They've overcome the secrets riddled in Patch's dark past...bridged two irreconcilable worlds...faced heart-wrenching tests of betrayal, loyalty and trust...and all for a love that will transcend the boundary between heaven and earth. Armed with nothing but their absolute faith in one another, Patch and Nora enter a desperate fight to stop a villain who holds the power to shatter everything they've worked for—and their love—forever.

Date Released: Oct. 4, 2011
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Serpent's Kiss (Elder Races #3)
by Thea Harrison

Recently, Vampire Queen Carling's power has become erratic, forcing her followers to flee. Wyr sentinel Rune is drawn to the ailing Queen and decides to help find a cure for the serpent's kiss-the vampyric disease that's killing her. With their desire for each other escalating they will have to rely on each other if they have any hope of surviving the serpent's kiss...

Date Released: Oct. 4, 2011
Website l Pre-Order

Devoted (Elixir #2)
by Hilary Duff, Elise Allen

Since Sage was kidnapped, Clea has no way of knowing if he is alive or dead. And even though she has only just discovered they were soulmates, she feels like a part of her is lost forever. What’s worse, she can’t even turn to her best friend Ben—because every time she looks at him, all she sees is his betrayal.
But waiting for something to happen is not an option, so Clea is ready for action. Suffering through dreams of seeing Sage with another woman, she makes an uneasy alliance with Sage’s enemies and sets out to be reunited with Sage...in this life or the next.

Date Released: Oct. 11, 2011
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The Scorpio Races
by Maggie Stiefvater

It happens at the start of every November: the Scorpio Races. Riders attempt to keep hold of their water horses long enough to make it to the finish line. Some riders live. Others die.

At age nineteen, Sean Kendrick is the returning champion. He is a young man of few words, and if he has any fears, he keeps them buried deep, where no one else can see them.

Puck Connolly is different. She never meant to ride in the Scorpio Races. But fate hasn’t given her much of a chance. So she enters the competition — the first girl ever to do so. She is in no way prepared for what is going to happen.

Date Released: Oct. 18, 2011
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Beautiful Chaos (Beautiful Creatures #3)
by Kami Garcia, Margaret Stohl

Ethan Wate thought he was getting used to the strange, impossible events happening in Gatlin, his small Southern town. But now that Ethan and Lena have returned home, strange and impossible have taken on new meanings. Swarms of locusts, record-breaking heat, and devastating storms ravage Gatlin as Ethan and Lena struggle to understand the impact of Lena's Claiming. Even Lena's family of powerful Supernaturals is affected - and their abilities begin to dangerously misfire. As time passes, one question becomes clear: What - or who - will need to be sacrificed to save Gatlin?

For Ethan, the chaos is a frightening but welcome distraction. He's being haunted in his dreams again, but this time it isn't by Lena - and whatever is haunting him is following him out of his dreams and into his everyday life. Even worse, Ethan is gradually losing pieces of himself - forgetting names, phone numbers, even memories. He doesn't know why, and most days he's too afraid to ask.
Sometimes there isn't just one answer or one choice. Sometimes there's no going back. And this time there won't be a happy ending.

Date Released: Oct. 18, 2011
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Scandalous Desires (Maiden Lane #3)
by Elizabeth Hoyt

“Charming” Mickey O’Connor is the most ruthless river pirate in London. Devastatingly handsome and fearsomely intelligent, he clawed his way up through London’s criminal underworld. Mickey has no use for tender emotions like compassion and love, and he sees people as pawns to be manipulated. Yet he’s never been able to forget the naive captain’s wife who came to him a year ago for help—and spent one memorable night in his bed...talking.

Widowed Silence Hollingbrook is impoverished, lovely, and kind--and a year ago she made a horrible mistake. She went to a river pirate for help in saving her husband and in the process made a bargain that cost her her marriage. That night wounded her so terribly that she hides in the foundling home she helps run with her brother. Except now that same river pirate is back...and he’s asking for her help.

Date Released: Oct. 24, 2011
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The Iron Knight (Iron Fey #4)
by Julie Kagawa
My name—my True Name—is Ashallayn'darkmyr Tallyn.

I am the last remaining son of Mab, Queen of the Unseelie Court. And I am dead to her.

My fall began, as many stories do, with a girl…

Date Released: Oct. 25, 2011
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Never Love a Highlander (McCabe Trilogy #3)
by Maya Banks

Caelen McCabe’s young, reckless heart nearly destroyed his clan. Now, putting family loyalty above all else, he steps up to marry his older brother’s jilted bride and salvage the uneasy alliance between two clans. While beautiful Rionna McDonald is a fit wife for any man, Caelen trusts no woman, especially not this sweet temptress who torments him with white-hot longing.

As the sacrificial lamb in her father’s power game, Rionna will do her duty but vows to protect her heart and her pride from humiliation. Despite everything, though, the heat in Caelen’s touch melts her defenses, and she craves the sensual delights of a husband who guards his emotions as fiercely as his clan. But when the ultimate battle for the McCabe legacy is upon them, Rionna’s true warrior spirit emerges. She will risk the wrath of her father, the fury of her enemies, and her life to prove to Caelen that his wife’s love is too precious to lose.

Date Released: Oct. 25, 2011
Website l Pre-Order

Phantom (The Vampire Diairies: The Hunters #1)
by L.J. Smith

The past is never far. . . .

Elena Gilbert and her friends saved Fell’s Church from evil spirits bent on destroying it, but the town’s freedom came at a price: Damon Salvatore’s life.
Damon’s death changes everything. He and his vampire brother, Stefan, had been locked in a vicious battle for Elena’s heart. Now that he’s gone, Elena and Stefan can finally be together. So why can’t Elena stop dreaming of Damon? As Elena’s feelings for Damon grow, a new darkness is brewing in Fell’s Church. Elena has been to hell and back, but this demon is like nothing she’s ever seen. Its only goal is to kill Elena and everyone she loves.

Date Released: Oct. 25, 2011
Website l Pre-Order

Darkness Unbound (Dark Angels #1)
by Keri Arthur

Risa Jones is as extraordinary as her heritage. Born from a lab-enhanced clone mother and an Aedh father, she can not only talk to the souls of the dying and the dead, but she can see the reapers and walk the gray fields that divide this world from the next.

They are skill she rarely uses, however, preferring to concentrate on the business she shares with her two best friends. But when her mother asks her to help the parents of a little girl locked in a coma, she reluctantly agrees. What she discovers scares the hell out of her. Because the little girl’s soul no longer resides in her body, and it wasn’t death and the reapers that took her.

Someone had ripped her soul from her flesh.

As it turns out, a creature consuming the souls of the innocent–and not so innocent–is the least of her problems.

Because someone wants to rip open the gates that divided hell from earth, and Risa is a key component in their plans.

And the only person standing between her and disaster is a reaper who isn’t exactly on her side.

Date Released: Oct. 29, 2011
Website l Pre-Order

Peace and Fangs,
Alisha

September's ILYB Award Winner: IB Book Blogging

2011-09-29T17:23:00.002-04:00

A few months ago, I came upon a blog with an intriguing name. After knowing about the IB program, I had to see what this blogger was doing. After looking around seeing the beautiful designs and reviews, I contacted Bailey to ask her a few questions about the IB program. In a few conversations, I knew that Bailey deserved some recognition for pulling together an amazing blog while still being a high school student. That's why, I picked Bailey and IB Book Blogging to be this month's ILYB Award winner!

Here is my interview with Bailey:

How did you get started blogging?

Well, in the summer of 2010 I got really into reading book blogs. All of the blogs that I read inspired me to contribute to the community of book lovers but it took me awhile to actually do something. I was pretty self-conscious at first about whether my reviews would suck, or no one would read them. But I met some pretty awesome bloggers who gave me advice and helped me to gain confidence.

How did you come up with the blog design?

Rachel from Parajunkee made my blog design and I love it so much! I love faeries and my favorite colors are pink and purple so I asked her to incorporate that into my design, and she took off with it. I couldn't have asked for a better layout for my blog!

What do you think your blog brings to the blogging community?

I think my blog brings thoughtful reviews to the blogging community.

Have there been any highlight moments since you've started blogging?

Goodness, there have been so many! I guess one of them would be when I celebrated my blogoversary. I cannot believe that it has been that long already!

What do you think is the best and worst part of blogging?

The best part of blogging is the friends that I make in the community and the readers that tell me they love my blog. =) I honestly can't think of anything bad about blogging.

As a teen, what are some advantages and disadvantages with blogging?

The advantage is that I probably have more time to blog than an adult who probably works full time would. The disadvantage is that I feel like sometimes teen bloggers aren't taken as seriously as the adult bloggers.

What reads are you looking forward to reading?

I am really excited to read Incarnate by Jodi Meadows, Everneath by Brodi Ashton, and Article 5 by Kristen Simmons. I have been drooling over them for awhile!!

Is there any genres you could never read?

Probably horror. I do not handle scary stuff very well and easily get nightmares. I know, I am a wimp. ;)

What would you like to do with your blog in the future?

Well, I am almost 18 now so I would like to start posting reviews of the adult books that I read along with YA, kind of to reflect my transition from teen to adult.

Will there be any events in the next few months?

Well, as soon as I reach 1000 followers (So close!) I will have a huge celebration and giveaway. =)

What have you learned from blogging?

I have learned how to become a better writer and how to manage my time better, what with my full IB schedule. It isn't easy managing a blog with IB but I still manage. =)

Do you have any tips or advice for new bloggers?

Don't worry about what others will think of your blog or your reviews! Do what you want to do, read what you want to read, and write what you want to write!

Bonus: With the fall season coming up, what do you do to keep cozy while reading?

I like to curl up with a warm blanket and my doggies while I read. They definitely keep me warm and cozy. =)

You can find Bailey on:

Blog l Twitter l Goodreads l Facebook

Thank you to Bailey for having an amazing blog and taking some time out to answer our questions.

Peace and Fangs,
Alisha

Top Ten Tuesdays: Books I Want to Reread

2011-09-27T07:33:00.000-04:00

TTT is a weekly feature held by the Broke and the Bookish. This week's topic are books that we would love to reread. Here's my list:

1. The Book Thief by Mark Zusak
Beautifully written and a different take and perspective on a huge event in our history. This was a school read, but everyone in my class was captivated by it.

2. Got Fangs? by Katie Maxwell
It was absolutely hilarious and some of the best kissing scenes I've ever read. I kept up with this series and would love to reread how it all began between Fran and Ben.

3. Beastly by Alex Flinn
This is one of the best YA book I've read so far. It's so simple with being based in Brooklyn, but I love the development of the characters and budding romance.

4. The Replacement by Brenna Yovanoff
I tried to read this at first and could not get through it. I wan to read it in the future since I know how well-written it is and what the heck Mackie is.

5. Sisters Red by Jackson Pearce
I absolutely love adaptions and this was a perfect one. I can not wait for the sequel to this one, but I will definitely be rereading this before it comes out.

6. Frostbite (Vampire Academy #2) by Richelle Mead
I love the VA series, if you don't already know. But, I really want to read this book in the series again. This is where Rose meets Adrian and I remember my reaction to him, a mixture of confusion and giddiness. But, it will be awesome to reread Rose's thoughts about Adrian.

7. Unleashed by Kristopher Reisz
This is one of my favorite werewolf books. This was actually what started my obsession with paranormal and Urban Fantasy! I haven't read it in years, so I'd love to get my hands on it again.

8. Romiette and Julio by Sharon M. Draper
Again with the adaptions! I loved this take on Romeo and Juliet. It was suspenseful in some parts and very sweet, innocent romance mixed in with it.

9. Younger by Pamela Redmond Satran
This was my first adult book and kicked off my love for them. it was like any other book, but had the drama of adulthood and how your lies will catch up with you.

10. Immortal by Gillian Shields
I love this series and Sebastian makes me jump up and down with glee. I love reading this series and want to continue. However, Immortal is more about the romance while Betrayal just caused me to cry.

What are some books you'd love to reread? Did I put some of your choices?

Peace and Fangs,
Alisha

Giveaway Winner for After Obsession

2011-09-19T20:40:00.000-04:00

The winner of After Obsession is:

Aydrea from Random Thoughts

The winner is given 48 hours to reply to our email to confirm notification. If a winner is not able to reply back in time, a new winner is chosen by Random.org.

Peace and Fangs,
Alisha

Review: Unearthly by Cynthia Hand

2011-09-17T15:54:00.008-04:00

"In the beginning, there's boy standing in the trees....
Clara Gardner has recently learned that she's part angel. Having angle blood run through her veins not only makes her smarter, stronger, and faster than humans (a word, she realizes, no longer applies to her), but it means she has a purpose, something she was put on this earth to do. Figuring out what that is, though, isn't easy.

Her visions of a raging fire and an alluring stranger lead her to a new school in a new town. When she meets Christian, who turns out to be the boy of her dreams (literally), everything seems to fall into place- and out of place at the same time. Because there's another guy, Tucker, who appeals to Clara's less angelic side.
As Clara tires to find her way int a world she no longer understands, she encounters unseen dangers and choices she never thought she's have to make- between honesty and deceit, love and duty, good and evil. When the fire from her vision finally ignites, will Clara be ready to face her destiny?"

Plot: Best. Book. Ever. I probably say that about every book I have reviewed, but I mean it. I wish I could tell you the ending, but I am not that kind of person. Anyway, the ending is really confusing so I don't think I could... In the beginning, Clara has finally found her purpose. She doesn't know much, but there's a boy and a fire. She figures she must have to save him. She moves away from her home, and moves to where she has to go. And may I just say, I think she is top on the list of "Worst First Days of School." She trains and works hard to stay focused on her "mission." But then Tucker comes along. At first he seems like some jerk who she can't stand, but then she gets to know him more. Everything turns into one big question mark as she struggles with everything she must decide. I love it!
Main Characters: Tucker. Is. Amazing. Nothing else to add to that. He is just epic in every way, shape, and form. Of course, so is Clara. She's a perfect balance of responsible and whiny teenager.
Cover: I was interested that it was Natalie Portman (...it is right?). I never see real celebrities on books for some reason and I thought it was awesome. She is one of my favorite actresses and she looks beautiful on this cover.

Overall: I read this one at my aunt's too, and I don't think I looked up once from this book. It is one of my favorites so far and I definitely recommend it to anyone who loves romance stories about angels. I give this a 4/4 but for some reason my computer won't upload the picture, so imagine it's there.

Sweet Daydreams,
Brooke

P.S. If you go here then you can go to Cynthia Hand's blog, which has news about her books, and what I thought was cool, different covers for this book. One has her with her angel hair, and another has her with her redish orange. Look it up if you want!

Review: Entwined by Heather Dixon

2011-09-17T14:59:00.008-04:00

"Azalea is trapped. Just when she should feel that everything is before her... beautiful gowns, dashing suitors, balls filled with dancing... it's taken away. All of it.

The Keeper understands. He's trapped, too, held for centuries within the walls of the palace. And so he extends an invitation.

Every night, Azalea and her eleven sisters may step though the enchanted passage in their room to dance in his silver forest.

But there is a cost.

The Keeper likes to keep things.

Azalea may not realize how tangled she is in his web until it is too late."

Plot: Right in the beginning of the story, these twelve princesses lose their beloved mother. Devastated, the girls must learn to stay a family. But the king is king, not dad, and it makes the girls even more distressed. Thinking their dad does not love them, they become angry and distant from him. Meanwhile, they have to go into a "mourning period" for a year full of isolation, black clothes, no outdoors, and even worse; no dancing. When they find a magic forest full of dancing, fun, and an amazing man, Keeper, they find themselves under a spell. What will become of them?

Main Characters: I really like how all the sisters are in alphabetical order (Azalea, Bramble, Clover, Delphinium, Eve, Flora, Goldenrod, Hollyhock, Ivy, Jessamine, Kale, and Lily). They each have very different personalities, and I have to say, I love Bramble. Though, I think I am most like Clover. But Azalea is a wonderful, strong main character.

Cover: I love this cover. I had no idea what this was about or anything, but I knew I wanted to read it because of the cover. I love the dress, and where she is.

Overall: I didn't even read what this was about so when it started sounding like the Twelve Dancing Princesses, I was thoroughly confused. But I loved the cover so much, I assumed I would love it. I was right! It is full of ball gowns, dancing, and even magic. Heather Dixon wrote this beautifully, and I found myself at my aunt's house, locked in the guest room reading, rather than spending time with them. I give this a 3/4 because it was very well written and enticing.

Sweet Daydreams,
Brooke

Dear Bully: Nancy Garden Guest Post

2011-09-17T13:09:00.001-04:00

With the release of Dear Bully on September 5th, we are celebrating it's release and message here at BNR. From Sept. 4th to Sept. 14th, we will be having authors that contributed to DB on the blog.

Today on the blog is Nancy Garden, author of "Annie on My Mind":

A versatile writer, Nancy Garden has published books for children as well as for teens, nonfiction as well as fiction. But her novel Annie on My Mind, the story of two high school girls who fall in love with each other, has brought her more attention than she wanted when it was burned in front of the Kansas City School Board building in 1993 and banned from school library shelves in Olathe, Kansas, as well as other school districts. A group of high school students and their parents in Olathe had to sue the school board in federal district court in order to get the book back on the library shelves. Today the book is as controversial as ever, in spite of its being viewed by many as one of the most important books written for teens in the past forty years. In 2003 the American Library Association gave the Margaret A. Edwards Award to Nancy Garden for lifetime achievement.

Nancy's Guest Post

Now that I've read my colleagues' stories in Dear Bully I'm struck by what a large and potentially strong underground sister- and brotherhood of bullying victims, bullies, and bystanders we form! I am struck even more by the probability that our remembered pain is shared by thousands of other adults, most of whom, like most of us, have kept silent about the fear, the humiliation, the guilt, and the agony they suffered years ago, and the ache we all carry in our hearts for the kids who now find themselves spinning in the same vicious circle. And I ask myself and all other adults: Can't we now at last try to end this scourge by speaking out and by teaching and demonstrating that all kids are valuable and have a right to be "different" whatever that difference is? Can't we now, in our own homes and neighborhoods and schools and houses of worship make the effort to acknowledge that bullying is ubiquitous, that childhood bullying kills and wounds permanently? Can't we also begin to acknowledge that childhood bullying that goes untreated can lead to extreme horrors like school shootings, adult bullying, and torture?

Please--let us at least try!

Where you can find Nancy:

Website l Goodreads l Facebook

I want to thank Nancy and all of the other authors who jumped on board with this event! It has been incredible to get to know reasons why authors got involved with this project and their views on bullying. I hope that Dear Bully is an inspiration to those everywhere and can start a new revolution of peace.

You can order Dear Bully on Amazon and click here to view the website.

Peace and Fangs,
Alisha

Dear Bully: Jessica Brody Interview

2011-09-14T21:51:00.000-04:00

Jessica Brody knew from a young age that she wanted to be a writer. She started self "publishing" her own books when she was seven years old, binding the pages together with cardboard, wallpaper samples and electrical tape. After graduating from Smith College in 2001 where she double majored in Economics and French and minored in Japanese, Jessica later went on to work for MGM Studios as a Manager of Acquisitions and Business Development. In May of 2005, Jessica quit her job to follow her dream of becoming a published author. In four short years, Jessica has sold five novels. Jessica recently sold five more young adult titles to her publisher, Macmillan Children's Publishing Group. Jessica's books are published in over ten foreign countries. Jessica now works full time as a writer and producer. She currently splits her time between Los Angeles and Colorado.

Interview with Jessica

About You:

How did you come up with the idea for "My Life Undecided"?

This book was definitely one of those “aha!” moments that I hear writers talk about. My husband and I were watching TV, an ad for a reality show came on and I said, “Wouldn’t it be cool if there was a reality show where you could vote on what the characters did. As in, “who they went out with?” or “Whether or not they forgave their backstabbing best friend.” Like American Idol meets The Hills. We both agreed although it would be cool, it wouldn’t be practical from a production standpoint since they shoot those reality shows months before they air. I was not deterred though. I said, “Fine, I’ll write it as a book,” and then marched up the stairs and in ten short minutes, wrote a page-long synopsis for what would become MY LIFE UNDECIDED and sent it to my editor. She wrote back right away saying that she loved it and the book was born!

What is the difference between writing a screenplay and writing a novel?

There are many things I love about writing both. In novels you really get to live inside the character's mind and learn about everything she's thinking. I love internal monologue and so writing novels is fun in that you get to explore so much of what you would never see on the screen of a movie. Screenplays are great, though, because you can tell a story so much more succinctly and visually. I love writing montages in screenplays. A series of quick scenes that speed you through a part of the story. You can't really do that very well in novels.

Is there any genre that you wish to touch on in the future?

I would love to one day write a mystery novel. I try to put a little bit of mystery in all my books, regardless of the genre. I lay clues for the main character to find that eventually lead her to solve the puzzle at the end. So I think it would be fun to try my hand at a real mystery novel!

What do you think adult novels have that you can not do with YA?

I don't think there's much you can do with adult novels that you can't do with YA these days. YA has become so edgy and mature in the last few years. I think the big difference between YA and adult fiction is the point of view. Adult characters have a bit more perspective about the world and are sometimes more jaded than teen characters. What makes YA fiction so fun is that the characters are experiencing a lot of emotions and situations for the first time. Everything is raw and new. It's really fun to put yourself back into that mindset.

What is the most rewarding part of being an author?

Getting feedback from readers. Whether it's in a good review left on Amazon, a fan letter or email, or meeting readers at signing events, when someone tells you they enjoyed your book (or better yet, it changed them somehow), there's no better feeling in the world!

About DB:

Why did you decide to get involved with Dear Bully?

There was no decision to be made. As soon as Megan and Carrie sent around the email about what they were doing, I instantly knew it was something I wanted (needed!) to do. I was affected by bullying in middle school and it truly shaped who I am today. I was so excited to be able to share my story in such an important anthology.

Other than bullying victims, who should read this book?

I think there's something in here for everyone. Parents of teenagers, parents of kids who will eventually be teenagers, teachers, aunts, uncles, grand parents, adults who were bullied when they were younger, bullies themselves. Everyone can get something out of this book. I guarantee it!

How has your experiences made you stronger?

I always say, "I don't believe in regret." Everything that happens to you makes you who you are. There's an opportunity to learn and grow from every experience you encounter. When I moved to a new school in the sixth grade and I was bullied by some of the kids, it only made me more independent and determined to do something with my life. It fueled my drive to be successful. Because I didn't have many friends in the beginning, I threw all of my energy into studying and creative endeavors. And it set me up to be motivated and a self-starter in the future.

How should someone reach out for help or support?

Talk to someone you trust. A friend, a parent, a relative, a teacher, a volunteer at a hotline. There are so many people out there who can help you. I know it may not seem that way, but it's true. Tell someone what's happening. Don't hold it inside. It will only make it worse. When my sister was in junior high, she was bullied by an older girl at her school who threatened to hurt her. My sister told my mom, my mom told the police and the girl and her parents got a very serious visit from the police department. She never bothered my sister again. Please reach out!

Give advice about bullying in three words.

You're not alone.

Where you can find Jessica:

Website l Twitter l Facebook

Thank you to Jessica for participating with our Dear Bully Spotlight event! You can order Dear Bully on Amazon and see the official website here.

Peace and Fangs,

Alisha

Winners of Tantalize Graphic Novel and Firelight Merch

2011-09-14T18:36:00.000-04:00

Sorry for the delay! Everything is very hectic at the moment, so blogging has become rare for me this week. However, here are the winners for the past two giveaways:

Winner of Tantalize Graphic Novel:

Katherine Cromwell

Winners of the Firelight merch are:

Ashly F. from Lost in the Stacks

and

Wanda from Books are Magic

Winners are chosen by Random.org and are given 48 hours to respond to our email. If they do not respond, we choose another winner from the existing entries.

Peace and Fangs,
Alisha

Dear Bully: Steven E. Wedel Interview/Giveaway

2011-09-12T12:00:00.006-04:00

Born and raised an Okie, Wedel typically sets his stories somewhere in Oklahoma's diverse landscape. He began writing in high school in the early 1980s and never stopped. He currently lives in central Oklahoma with his wife and four children. Besides writing, he earns his living as a high school English teacher.

Interview with Steven:

About Steven:

Why did you choose to go into writing?

I've always been a quiet, kind of shy person who preferred the company of books to most people. In sixth grade my teacher suggested I enter an essay contest. I wrote a short story instead, but that made me realize how much fun it was to write. Then in high school another teacher sort of fanned the flame and I've been writing since then.

What turned you on to writing about werewolves?

I like the werewolf as metaphor for the wild side we all have buried somewhere within us. For some it's deeper than others, but I think it's there in everyone. I thought I'd see what happened when a shy young woman was able to tap into her inner beast. And now it just keeps growing. This summer I finished the next book in the saga and hope to see it released in 2012.

Is there any paranormal creatures you would like to touch on in the future?

Yes. I've had an idea for a vampire story since the 1980s and I think it's about time to put that on paper. My vampire won't sparkle, though. He'll be the old fashioned scary kind. I'm getting old. I want to play with the idea of immortality.

Other than the amazing Carrie Jones, is there any other authors you would like to co-write with?

That's an interesting question. I really don't know. The chemistry Carrie and I have when writing is something I never would have predicted. I can't imagine it being so good and so easy with anyone else. I have a lot of writer friends I respect and admire and would be willing to try collaborations with them, I guess, but I would be worried about trying to catch lightning twice.

What is one thing you have learned from becoming an author?

That writing can be great therapy. Anything bothering me in my "real" life can be worked out in writing.

About DB:

Why did you decide to get involved with Dear Bully?

It was an odd coincidence. Carrie contacted me and asked if I'd be interested in contributing something. She happened to do that just after some fantastic students at the school where I teach created Stand for the Silent, an anti-bullying campaign they put together in memory of Ty Smalley, a young boy who killed himself after being horribly bullied at school. Stand for the Silent had me remembering my days of being a scrawny, shy kid who got picked on a lot, then Carrie's e-mail came, so I decided to put those memories on paper.

Other than bullying victims, who should read this book?

Parents, teachers, counselors, ministers ... anyone who is in a position to help kids at risk of being bullied. I think anyone can read it and be touched, but those in contact with kids can definitely use it as a resource to help encourage those being bullied.

How has your experiences made you stronger?

When I have a bad day at work now, or the car breaks down, or whatever, I can look back to being clubbed on the head or dragged out of the school bathroom in my underwear and realize I got through that, so I can deal with this, too.

How should someone reach out for help or support?

Go to an adult you trust. I'm a teacher. I know teachers. You may think your teachers don't like you, but I promise you we are there because we care about you. We don't get paid very much money. We come to school every day because we want to be with you and help you. So go to your teacher and tell him or her what's going on.

Give advice about bullying in three words.

Tell someone NOW!

Where you can find Steven:

Website l Twitter l Facebook l Goodreads

Giveaway item: US copy of After Obsession by Carrie Jones and Steven E. Wedel

Type: International

Requirements: 13 years or older

How to enter: Leave a comment on this post with your name, way to contact, and what country you live in.

The giveaway ends on Sunday, Sept. 18, 11:59 PM EST!

Thank you to Steven for hanging out here with us today! You can order Dear Bully over at Amazon and check out the website here.

Peace and Fangs,
Alisha

Dear Bully: Stephanie Kuehnert Interview

2011-09-10T12:36:00.011-04:00

STEPHANIE KUEHNERT got her start writing bad poetry about unrequited love and razor blades in eighth grade. In high school, she discovered punk rock and produced several D.I.Y. feminist 'zines. After short stints in Ohio and Wisconsin, Stephanie ultimately returned home and received her MFA in creative writing from Columbia College Chicago. She currently resides in Forest Park, IL.

Interview with Stephanie

About Stephanie:

How do you combine your love of literature and music into your writing?

I write about characters who love music as much as I do. Sometimes they are the kind of characters I wish I could be, like Emily from I WANNA BE YOUR JOEY RAMONE, who is the frontwoman of a punk band. Sometimes they are more like me, like Kara from BALLADS OF SUBURBIA, who uses music as an outlet and escape like I always have. Music also feeds me while I'm writing. Sometimes a song or a certain band will inspire a scene or a character or the whole vibe of a book.

Have you put some of your personal experiences into your writing?

Yes, especially in BALLADS OF SUBURBIA, which deals with depression and self-injury, two things I struggled with quite a bit in high school, as well addiction, which I dealt with and a lot of my friends dealt with. On the lighter side, I also do give my characters my interests and hobbies. I just finished the manuscript for my first adult book and one of the characters is a bartender, which is my other job besides writing and the other character is vegan and politically active much like I was as a teen (and still am, I suppose though maybe to a slightly lesser degree. I'm still vegan.)

What book genres interest you the most?

Realistic Young Adult Fiction is probably my all-time fave, but I love everything: paranormal, urban fantasy, sci-fi, dystopian. I like memoirs and contemporary adult fiction, as well as classics like John Steinbeck. If it is well-written I'll read it.

What have you learned from becoming an author?

Oh man, loads, but the best thing is how much I love readers, especially teens. The readers of your books are what make your job as an author worthwhile.

Do you have any future ideas for books?

Always. Lots of ideas, just not entirely sure where I'll go next. Trying to find a home for this adult book right now and working on writing things for an online magazine for teen girls: http://rookiemag.com/ so I'm writing about a lot of my personal experiences as non-fiction. Which is kinda scary!

About DB:

Why did you decide to get involved with Dear Bully?

Because the more articles I read about teens being bullied, especially teens like Phoebe Prince who took their own lives because bullying made them feel so hopeless, the more upset I got. I was bullied in grade school and junior high and the resulting emotional scars made me pretty self-destructive and have low self-esteem for quite a long time. It's important to me to talk about ways to survive bullying and it is equally important to give bullying survivors a voice. In all case of abuse, silence is big part of what empowers the abuser. When survivors start to talk, their wounds begin to heal and abusers/bullies lose power. Increasing awareness is a huge part of stopping bullying from happening.

Other than bullying victims, who should read this book?

Everyone should read this book in my opinion. The pieces are so varied and there are some really interesting ones where people talk about not even knowing they were a bully or being a bully because they couldn't stand up to their group of friends. That happens a lot. So the more teens who read Dear Bully, the more will be aware of what bullying behavior really is and really feels like, and hopefully bullying will lessen. To me that is part of the goal of this project, not just helping those who've been bullied heal, but examining the bully issue as a whole and changing our mentality as a society so that it stops and we are kinder to each other. Parents, teachers, guidance counselors, any one who works with, lives with or is a friend of teenagers should read this, too.

How have your experiences made you stronger?

Being labeled an outcast helped me figure out who I was rather than blindly following a group. When I realized that no matter what I did or wore that certain people were still going to be cruel to me, I stopped trying to fit in and just embraced who I was. This wasn't easy. I am not going to lie, I was very unhappy for a long time. But once I learned to talk about it and to write about and put my feelings in words, I got stronger. It was a slow process, but in the long run, I'm doing what I want to do and am proud of who I've become.

How should someone reach out for help or support?

This is the hardest question because it is very personal. But remember what I said before, silence gives the bully power. Also what they are doing is not acceptable. They have no excuse. Not everyone thinks they are as cool as they think they are. Most people probably are just afraid to stand up to them. You have to reach out to the person who makes you most comfortable, if not your parents, a cool teacher, librarian, coach or other adult. Start by writing your feelings down, that always makes it easier for me.

Give advice about bullying in three words.

Talk about it.

Where you can find Stephanie:

Website l Blog l Twitter l Facebook

Thank you, Stephanie, for participating in the DB Spotlight! You can order Dear Bully over at Amazon and check out the DB site here!

Peace and Fangs,

Alisha

{Friday Round-Up} Book Blogger Hop :: Follow Friday :: TGIF

2011-09-09T20:09:00.001-04:00

Q: Many of us primarily read one genre of books, with others sprinkled in. If authors stopped writing that genre, what genre would you start reading? Or would you give up reading completely if you couldn’t read that genre anymore?

A: My favorite genre is romance, so if there were no more romance novels...I'd die! Maybe not die, but there would be a lot of...sad nights. I think I could get over it and venture on to other books, but I would have to go through the grieving process first.

Q: Have you ever wanted a villain to win at the end of a story? If so, which one?

A: Hmm....I would have to say the Twilight saga. Not that it was horrible or anything, I'm a HUGE TwiHard! However, in Breaking Dawn, I feel like Stephenie took the safe way out so that known of the beloved characters would have died. But, I would have wanted to know what happened if the Volturi and the Cullen clan/friends fought and the Volturi won. Who would have died? What would Nessie's life be like with Jacob since he would have taken care of her with her parents and family gone?

Q: Books to Television: Which books would you love to see made in to a TV series? or movie?

A: So many! But, I'll say a few. Since Vampire Academy is on it's way of becoming a movie, I'll leave that one out. But, my top five I wish would be a movie/TV series would be these:

Vampire Kisses: TV series

Hush, Hush: TV series or movies

Darkest Powers: TV series

The Maker's Song: TV series (but on HBO like True Blood)

Immortal series (Gillian Shields): movies

Peace and Fangs,

Alisha

Source: Crazy For Books

Dear Bully: Cynthia Leitich Smith Interview/Giveaway

2011-09-08T12:00:00.008-04:00

With the release of Dear Bully on September 5th, we are celebrating it's release and message here at BNR. From Sept. 4th to Sept. 14th, we will be having authors that contributed to DB on the blog.

Today on the blog is Cynthia Leitich Smith, author of Tantalize and Blessed:

Cynthia Leitich Smith is the New York Times and Publishers Weekly best-selling author of TANTALIZE, ETERNAL, BLESSED, and TANTALIZE: KIEREN'S STORY (Candlewick). Her award-winning books for younger children include JINGLE DANCER, INDIAN SHOES and RAIN IS NOT MY INDIAN NAME (all HarperCollins) and HOLLER LOUDLY (Dutton). Her website at http://www.cynthialeitichsmith.com/ was named one of the top 10 Writer Sites on the Internet by Writer's Digest and an ALA Great Website for Kids. Her Cynsations blog at cynthialeitichsmith.blogspot.com was listed as among the top two read by the children's/YA publishing community in the SCBWI "To Market" column.

Interview with Cynthia

About Cynthia:

What first turned you on to writing?

Like many writers, I began as an avid reader. My mom took me to the public library for books on Saturdays, and my dad took me to the local convenience store for comics on Sundays. I also fell in love with stories on the big and small screens.

I played “pretend” longer than most kids—focusing on superheroes and “Star Wars” in part because my beloved pal next door was a few years younger.

By second grade, I was writing fiction and poetry for fun. By sixth grade, I had a column, “Dear Gabby” in Mr. Rideout’s classroom newsletter. I went onto become editor of my junior high and high school newspapers before majoring in news/editorial (with a concentration in English)at the University of Kansas, going on to earn a J.D. from the University of Michigan Law School and then launch into writing fiction full-time.

But if I had to pinpoint a handful of specific influences, I’d say The Wild Things, Wonder Woman, Princess Leia, Nancy Drew, Terabithia, The Witch from Blackbird Pond, Stephen King, “Teen Witch,” “Meatloaf,” Bram Stoker and Joss Whedon.

What interests you about children's and YA books?

For young heroes, so many of their experiences are new. There’s a kiss, there’s a first kiss, and there’s your first kiss ever. Which will you remember for the rest of your life? It’s a matter of heightened intensity. Beyond that, kids and teens have extra limits placed on them by the adult world, so they often must work harder, stretch and grow more to meet their challenges. Finally, young readers are the best audience in the world. It’s an honor to work for them.

Are there any other paranormal creatures you would like to write about?

I’m pretty excited about the wereotter in my upcoming novel, Diabolical (Candlewick, Jan. 2012), but that manuscript is (newly) finished.

Hmm. I’m yet to tackle fairies, but they’re tempting me at the moment.

How is writing about younger characters different from adult characters?

In addition to the factors mentioned above, it’s important to keep in mind that intelligence and talent are innate, not functions of age. There are kids out there who’re smarter, more talented at this or that than every adult they know.

In contrast, wisdom and skill are earned over time, effort, multiple failures, and persistence.

What can we see in the future from you?

My latest release is my first graphic novel, Tantalize: Kieren’s Story, illustrated by Ming Doyle (Candlewick, 2011).

Beyond that, I look forward to the publication of my latest YA short story, “Moon Over Broken Stars,” which will appear in Girl Meets Boy, edited by Kelly Milner Halls (Chronicle, Jan. 2012) and the previously mentioned novel Diabolical.

Another graphic novel, Eternal, is currently in production, and I’m writing a new paranormal YA prose novel, Smolder, which is set in the Tantalize series universe but emphasizes new and previously secondary characters.

About DB:

Why did you decide to get involved with Dear Bully?

I knew Dear Bully anthologist Carrie Jones from her studies at the MFA program in Writing for Children and Young Adults at Vermont College of Fine Arts. (I’m on the faculty.) She has such a wonderful heart and is so passionate and sincere that I knew the project would be terrific.

I also had been bullied myself from fourth through ninth grade, and I wanted to toss out a line of hope to kids who found themselves in a similar situation. I wanted to let them know that others had survived it and gone on to live their fondest dreams.

Other than bullying victims, who should read this book?

Perpetrators, the people who stay silent and/or get involved from the sidelines. Parents, grandparents, aunts and uncles, teachers, administrators, clergy members, law enforcement officials, politicians, social workers, private tutors, employers of teens—really anyone who has children and teens in their lives or cares about our society in the whole. In other words: everybody.

How have your experiences made you stronger?

Absolutely. Ultimately, being bullied made me realize the importance of reaching out to others in positive ways. You never know when someone needs a kind word, hug, or unexpected show of solidarity.

How should someone reach out for help or support?

Try confiding in your closest friends and/or an adult you can trust. It’s also okay to take refuge in story or to find safe havens in other kid communities. If school is a battleground, get involved in church or local theater or a GLBTQ teen center—wherever you feel safe and valued.

Where you can find Cynthia:

Website l Goodreads l Facebook l Twitter

Giveaway item: One graphic novel of Tantalized

Type: US Only

Requirements: 13 years or older

How to enter: Leave a comment on this post with your name and some way to contact you

The giveaway closes on Tuesday, Sept. 13, 11:59pm EST!

I want to thank Cynthia for stopping by for the Dear Bully Spotlight You can check out the DB website here and buy the book on Amazon now!

Peace and Fangs,

Alisha

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Manga Review: Mephistos

Anime Review: Hetalia - Axis Powers (APH)

*Administrator's Note* An Apology Well Deserved

Manga Mondays: The End for Bleach

Manga Mondays: What's wrong with it?

Manga Mondays: Style ~ Make or Break?

Manga Mondays - Is Anime/Manga style lazy?

Anime Review: Soul Eater by Atsushi Okubo

Review: Silence (Hush, Hush #3) by Becca Fitzpatrick

Review: Fateful by Claudia Gray

Review: Ruby Red (Edelstein Trilogie #1) by Kerstin Gier

Winner of Jessica Rules the Dark Side

Review: Etched in Bone (The Maker's Song #4) by Adrian Phoenix

Manga Mondays - 10 of my favorite Anime/Manga ladies

Interview with Beth Fantaskey *Giveaway*

Cover Reveal: City of Lost Souls (Mortal Instruments #5) by Cassandra Clare

HAPPY 2ND ANNIVERSARY, BNR!!

Top Ten Tuesdays: Books I'm Excited To Read in 2012

My Challenges for 2012

Manga Mondays - Anime VS Manga

Review: Tokyo Crazy Paradise by Yoshiki Nakamura

Requested Review: Relatively Honest by Molly Ringle

ARC Review: Jessica Rules the Dark Side (Jessica #2) by Beth Fantaskey

Requested Review: The Apocalypse Gene by Suki Michelle and Carlyle Clark

Review: Starcrossed (Starcrossed #1) by Josephine Angelini

Review: Clockwork Angel (Infernal Devices #1) by Cassandra Clare

Review: Revolution by Jennifer Donnelly

Review: Silver and Stone (Bloodlines #1) by J.D. Thompson *Requested*

Review: Crescendo (Hush, Hush #2) by Becca Fitzpatrick

Review: City of Fallen Angels (Mortal Instruments #4) by Cassandra Clare

Review: Twilight Saga ~ Breaking Dawn, Part 1

Review: Betrayed (House of Night #2) by P.C. and Kristin Cast

Review: The Forbidden Game (The Forbidden Game #1-3) by L.J. Smith

Review: Beneath the Skin (The Maker's Song #3) by Adrian Phoenix

Review: Halo (Halo #1) by Alexandra Adornetto

Review: The Hunger Games (The Hunger Games #1) by Suzanne Collins

October 2011 Book Releases

September's ILYB Award Winner: IB Book Blogging

Top Ten Tuesdays: Books I Want to Reread

Giveaway Winner for After Obsession

Review: Unearthly by Cynthia Hand

Review: Entwined by Heather Dixon

Dear Bully: Nancy Garden *Guest Post*

Dear Bully: Jessica Brody *Interview*

Winners of Tantalize Graphic Novel and Firelight Merch

Dear Bully: Steven E. Wedel *Interview/Giveaway*

Dear Bully: Stephanie Kuehnert *Interview*

{Friday Round-Up} Book Blogger Hop :: Follow Friday :: TGIF

Dear Bully: Cynthia Leitich Smith *Interview/Giveaway*

Administrator's Note An Apology Well Deserved

Interview with Beth Fantaskey Giveaway

Review: Silver and Stone (Bloodlines #1) by J.D. Thompson Requested

Dear Bully: Nancy Garden Guest Post

Dear Bully: Jessica Brody Interview

Dear Bully: Steven E. Wedel Interview/Giveaway

Dear Bully: Stephanie Kuehnert Interview

Dear Bully: Cynthia Leitich Smith Interview/Giveaway