Review : Coffeehouse Angel by Suzanne Selfors

*Warning: This review may contain spoilers. Read at your own risk.

Publisher: Walker Childrens
Release Date: July 21, 2009
Pages: 288
Source: Own

The Story:

From the author of Saving Juliet comes a romantic comedy that is good to the last drop. When Katrina spots a homeless guy sleeping in the alley behind her grandmother’s coffee shop, she decides to leave him a cup of coffee, a bag of chocolate-covered coffee beans, and some pastries to tide him over. Little does she know that this random act of kindness is about to turn her life upside down.  Because this adorable vagrant, Malcolm, is really a guardian angel on a break between missions. And he won’t leave until he can reward Katrina’s selflessness by fulfilling her deepest desire. Now if only she could decide what that might be . . . 

via Amazon

Rating: TWO Gold Stars!!

My Review: 

I read Coffeehouse Angel about 6 years ago and from what I remember it was a light, heartwarming read. If you have a book challenge and need something quick to read Coffeehouse Angel is a good option. With that said, I would love to have rated higher but it just did not hit the proverbial spot for me. 

Opening Line:

The first time I saw him, he was lying in the alley behind my grandmother's coffeehouse.

Plot:

The plot of Coffeehouse Angel was not the least bit explosive. Well, at least not explosive enough for me. Katrina tries to figure who she is and what she desire from life -- she matures throughout the book from the shadow of her friends to her own person. Threatened to be closed, Katrina worked 24/7 at her grandmother's old world coffeehouse as it was bowing under the weight of competition against fancy, eco-friendly Java Heaven next door.
A miracle in the form of a "homeless" man walks through the coffeehouse. From the moment Katrina finds Malcolm sleeping behind her grandmother's coffeehouse her life changes in ways she could never have imagined.

Character Breakdown:

Katrina - Katrina is a typical teenage girl. She is likable character dealing with typical teen issues while maintaining a strong sense of what is right.

Malcolm - If two words could sum up Malcolm they are: kind and mysterious. He has an unbelievable secret Katrina has a hard time coming to terms with.

Meet the Author:

Suzanne Selfors lives on an island near Seattle where it rains all the time, which is why she tends to write about cloudy, moss-covered, green places.

She's married, has two kids, and writes full time. 
Her favorite writers are Kurt Vonnegut, Charles Dickens, and most especially, Roald Dahl. 

You can visit her at www.suzanneselfors.com.

***Check out Suzanne Selfors' website for more information about her and  the Coffeehouse Angel: HERE

Happy Reading!

2015 Book Blogger Love-a-Thon: Mini-challenge #1 – Book Spine Poetry

The 2015 Book Blogger Love-A-Thon is hosted by Alexa Loves Books

I never knew about Book Blogger Love-A-Thon so this is my first time participating and I'm are extremely excited! I think this a perfect opportunity to meet new book bloggers and strengthen ties in the book blogging community. If you are participating, be sure to leave us a comment with a link to your posts so I can stop by your blog! 

To be honest, I was daunted by this challenge. There are so many good ones! But here goes nothing . . .

Starcrossed Temptation

Dare You To Awaken

Boundless Passion

Everneath Breaking Dawn

What do you think fellow bookies? Have you participated? If so comment with the link to yours - I'd love to check it out!

Happy Reading!

Review : Boundless by Cynthia Hand (Unearthly Series #3)

*Warning: This review may contain spoilers. Read at your own risk.

Publisher: HarperCollins Publishers
Release Date: January 22, 2013
Pages: 438
Source: Own

The Story:

The past few years held more surprises than part-angel Clara Gardner ever could have anticipated. Now, with the fallen angel who attacked her watching her every move and the threat of Black Wings looming, Clara knows she must finally fulfill her destiny—a destiny that includes Christian Prescott by her side. But in order to complete her purpose, Clara must first find a way to give up the thing she wants most . . . a future with the boy she loves, Tucker Avery.

via Barnes & Noble

Rating: FOUR Gold Stars!!!!

My Review: One word: 

Talk about a finale! I was so sorry to see the Unearthly series end but boy was the final ride fun.

Plot:

In my reviews of Unearthly and Hallowed the plot left something to be desired - it was a little lackluster for me. But in Boundless, my wish was granted - the plot had a bit more spunk to it. There was action, bad events took place, the character's abilities were put to the test, there was suspense and more. However, there was one tidbit that drove me nuts. Clara's main conflict in Unearthly and Hallowed was miraculously resolved. Perhaps it would not have peeved me so much if the resolution was more dramatic but that wasn't the case. Instead, it sort of melted, uneventfully, off into the Wyoming sunset. I needed more. Alas, the main conflict in Boundless was more fleshed out. 

In this book, we see more of the love triangle. I am a Tucker Girl 100 percent but it was so much harder for me to ignore Christian. I had the feels for Christian. For all three of them. Clara had to literally fight destiny to choose who she wanted to love. Christian was in love with a girl whose heart was torn. And Tucker was not only human but was in love with a part-Angel girl and had to compete with another angelic being for her affection. 

Even more, Cynthia Hand practically ripped my soul out in Boundless. Yet another person dies in the Unearthly series. The death in Hallowed was hard but the deaths in book 3 had me blubbering like a baby. The scene was so well-written - it was strong, emotional, realistic. I thought I was in Boundless and the experience was happening to me. I nearly died! 

And get this, Bookies! There is an epilogue. An EPIC epilogue! The perfect bow to the present that is Boundless. 

*Side-note: You guys have no idea how hard it was to write this review without spoilers.*

If you have not finished the Unearthly series, what in the heck are you waiting for? Get on it! You will not be sorry that you did. Bookiedeeds' Promise. Boundless was a captivating, emotional ride that had me all chips in from the starting gate.

Here is one of my favorite quotes from Boundless:

 Angela: She shrugs."Men"
"Men."
"If we can send one man to the moon, why can't we send them all there?” 


***Check out Cynthia Hand's website for more information about her and the Boundless: HERE

Happy Reading!

Review : Hallowed by Cynthia Hand (Unearthly Series #2)

*Warning: This review may contain spoilers. Read at your own risk.

Publisher: HarperCollins Publishers
Release Date: January 17, 2012
Pages: 403
Source: Own

The Story:

For months Clara Gardner trained to face the fire from her visions, but she wasn't prepared for the choice she had to make that day. And in the aftermath, she discovered that nothing about being part angel is as straightforward as she thought.

Now, torn between her love for Tucker and her complicated feelings about the roles she and Christian seem destined to play in a world that is both dangerous and beautiful, Clara struggles with a shocking revelation: Someone she loves will die in a matter of months. With her future uncertain, the only thing Clara knows for sure is that the fire was just the beginning.

In this compelling sequel to Unearthly, Cynthia Hand captures the joy of first love, the anguish of loss, and the confusion of becoming who you are.

via Barnes & Noble

Rating: FOUR Gold Stars!!!!

My Review: One word: COMPELLING

Yup, Cynthia Hand did it again! Sequels have a notorious reputation for sucking but not in this trilogy. I was sold from the start.  

Plot:

As I mentioned in my review of Unearthly, the plot of Hallowed wasn't exactly the most original or unique but it was well laid out and flows. However, I wish there was more  . . . BAM! to it. Clara was afraid of this fallen angel who threatened her and her friends and family's existence and yet  . . . he didn't do much of anything. So, that was a little disappointing but not to the point Hallowed's rating suffered.

As for the Dream plot-line, it was good. I could figure out what was going to happen next. It kept me on my toes wondering, who was going to be next, what God had planned for Clara and more. The person who dies . . . I was like whaaaa? So sad. But so good. Made me choke up a bit.

Overall, Hallowed is a good read. Tucker is still my main man but Christian, boy is he growing on me. The story is compelling and makes readers a part of Clara's world. Round of applause to Cynthia Hand.

Here is one of my favorite quotes from Hallowed:

“Hi there," Tucker says brightly, like we're bumping into each other on the street. 
"Uh, hi."
"Nice night for stalking," he observes.
"No, I was---"
"Get your butt in here, Carrots.” 

***Check out Cynthia Hand's website for more information about her and the Hallowed: HERE

Happy Reading!

Review : Unearthly by Cythnia Hand

*Warning: This review may contain spoilers. Read at your own risk.

Publisher: HarperCollins Publishers
Release Date: January 4, 2011
Pages: 435
Source: Own

The Story:

In the beginning, there's a boy standing in the trees . . . .

Clara Gardner has recently learned that she's part angel. Having angel blood run through her veins not only makes her smarter, stronger, and faster than humans (a word, she realizes, that 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 forest 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 tries to find her way in a world she no longer understands, she encounters unseen dangers and choices she never thought she'd 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?

Unearthly is a moving tale of love and fate, and the struggle between following the rules and following your heart.

via Barnes & Noble

Rating: FOUR Gold Stars!!!!

My Review: One word: LUMINOUS

Yes! Simply, yes! I loved Unearthly so much that as soon as I finished reading it, I jumped on my computer and scoured the internet for Cynthia Hand's author event. In fact, that is how I learned about the existence of RT Booklovers Convention and ended up in Los Angeles (first time in California ever!) back in April 2011.

Character Breakdown:

Clara Gardner - Clara's character is nicely written. I may not be able to relate to her much (not being part-angel and all) but she is a likable and believable character. She is not annoying or docile. Clara is the right mixture of feminine, strong and teenage girl. I especially appreciate how adapt Cynthia Hand was at relaying Clara's emotional struggles to the readers. Clara's emotional scope is multifaceted and realistic.

Tucker Avery - *Swoon* Tucker is exactly my kind of guy. He is a cowboy, boy-next-door and fighter all wrapped in one. Tucker is wholesome, loving, funny and has just the right amount of attitude. I am Team Tucker all the way! Don't believe me? Look at the gadgets on The Tattered Page, I have a sticker that says so! :)

Christian Prescott - Christian . . . Oh, Christian. Hmm... Well,  have to admit, at the beginning I was not a big fan of the love-triangle contender, Christian. But . . . he does grow on you. I mean, he is the man of Clara's dreams and all. Literally. So, that at least grants Christian a second look. He is handsome, popular, athletic, rich and has particular affinities *cough cough* of his own.

Plot:

The plot . . . I think my love of the book is reliant on the characters more so than the plot. The plot isn't exactly the most original or unique but it is well laid out and flows. *I am not mentioning anymore details because I feel the blurb has given enough away* The angel lore and such aren't simply thrown into the mix but is stitched into the story seamlessly. I appreciate not having all the information dumped on me in one scene.

Overall, the writing of Unearthly is phenomenal. The storytelling sucks you into the world of angels and love triangles and divine plans. Unearthly deserves a 4-star rating without a doubt! If you haven't already picked up the Unearthly trilogy, I suggest you stop what you are doing and get on it!

Here is one of my favorite quotes from Unearthly:

Tucker: "I didn't ever think you were a freak. I think ... I thought you were magic or something. I thought that you were too perfect to be real." [Page 332]

Clara: "He loves me. Inside his head, his every thought and reaction was born of love, love inside and out, crazy, irrational (and sure, a bit lustful) love. He loves me, and that's also what terrified him when he saw me light up like a Christmas tree. He doesn't know what I am, but he loves me." [Page 340]

***Check out Cynthia Hand's website for more information about her and the Unearthly: HERE

Happy Reading!

Review : Eternity by Heather Terrell

*Warning: This review may contain spoilers. Read at your own risk.

Release date: June 28, 2011

Publisher: Harper Teen
Pages: 294
Source: Own 

The Story:

The end . . . or a new beginning?

As Ellie comes to grips with her destiny as the Elect One, her relationship with Michael grows tense. When she meets a mys­terious boy named Rafe, things get even more complicated.Yet the time has come for the Elect One to stand against the group of evil fallen angels who are bent on destroying the world. In order to face the immeasurable malevolence heading her way, Ellie tries to put her personal life aside. But she soon learns that whoever holds her heart also holds the key to mankind’s salvation—or destruction. As the end days approach, Ellie is faced with an epic decision. Who does her heart really belong to? And is her love strong enough to save the world?

--via Barnes & Noble


Rating: TWO GOLD STARS!!

My Review: One word: RAFE

After finding out she is the byproduct of a fallen angel and a human and that her parents aren't actually her parents, Ellspeth "Ellie" Faneuil in the first book, Fallen Angel, she is trying to come to terms with her family tree. Not mention the fact that she is prophesied to be the Elect One -- an all powerful Nephilim that will determine the outcome of the war between evil Fallen Angels and the good Fallen angels. She is to be the half-human, half-angel savior of the world.

If I can say one thing about Ellie, it is that she is consistent. She is without a doubt the heroine -- the good one. However, I have yet to see the Elect One make an appearance. Ellie hasn't done anything badass -- in the name of good, of course -- yet and I do so look forward to it. And being the one being on earth that will determine the fate of mankind -- salvation or destruction -- I'd say that is a badass job description. So, where in the Hell -- pun intended, hehe -- is her badassness. Yeah, I said it. BADASSNESS.  (Please, Terrell, do not let Ellie's title as the Elect One be all bark and no bite.)

On that note, YA authors know we teen reads bibliophiles do love a book that pulls on our romantic heartstrings. And Heather Terrell does manage that with a brewing love triangle in Eternity. In Fallen Angel, Michael Chase-- the all American football player and fellow nephillim -- and Ellie are perfect together and we all jump up and down with glee. But in Eternity, we're on cockblocking duty when it comes to Michael. Getting comfortable with his powers, talent and high school football stardom, it starts going to his head and Michael transforms into a "Michael" Ellie doesn't recognize. To put it plainly: he was pissing me the hell off! And Ellie, in love as she is, puts up with his crap. Insert Rafe Gregory. The mysterious but compassionate volunteer fundraiser for earthquake victims with a secret of his own.

TeamRafeTeamRafeTeamRafe . . . Sorry Mikey Boy but Rafe is sexy as all hell!

Is it no wonder that whomever holds the key to Ellie's heart also holds the key to the fate of the human race? So who, Michael or Rafe, will be the salvation or the destruction of mankind as we all know it? D-Day is soon approaching and Ellie must make her epic decision that will have consequences to last an eternity.

Unfortunately, I have to say, I was a disappointed with this book. Having enjoyed Fallen Angel , I was sad that Eternity didn't hold up to my expectations. It left much to be desired.

*** Check out Heather Terrell website for more information about her and Eternity: HERE

Happy Reading!

Review : Finale by Becca Fitzpatrick

*Warning: This review may contain spoilers. Read at your own risk.

Release date: October 23, 2012

Publisher: Simon & Shuster Books For Young Readers
Pages: 454
Source: Own

The Story:

Fates unfurl in the gripping conclusion to the New York Times bestselling Hush, Hush saga.

Nora is more certain than ever that she is in love with Patch. Fallen angel or no, he is the one for her. Her heritage and destiny may mean they are fated to be enemies, but there is no turning her back on him. Now Nora and Patch must gather their strength to face one last, perilous trial. Old enemies return, new enemies are made, and a friend's ultimate betrayal threatens the peace Patch and Nora so desperately want. The battle lines are drawn—but which sides are they on? And in the end, are there some obstacles even love can't conquer?

--via Barnes & Noble

Rating: THREE GOLD STARS!!! 

My Review: One word: QUENCHING

She thought all of her troubles would end with killing her father, Hank Millar, but fate had different plans. Newly turned Nephil Nora Grey has now sworn a blood oath to her deceased father and ex-commander, the Black Hand. She must lead his army of Nephilim against the Fallen Angels who have possessed the bodies of their Nephilim vassals for centuries during Cheshvan. A hellish prison as the "Fallen angels have free rein to do as they please, and since it's the only time during the year they can actually feel physical sensation, their creativity knows no bounds. they chase after pleasure, pain and everything in between, playing parasites to their Nephilim hosts." Or suffer consequence punishable by death. But her own life isn't the only one at stake. her mother's lies in the balance as well.

Nora hoped she could lead the army to peace but the threat of foes, old and new, and betrayals has put the life Nora has and hopes for in jeopardy. Including the one she has planned with Patch Cipriano. Her boyfriend and fallen angel. And as Cheshvan draws near Nora will have to make a difficult choice that will predict her future. Fallen angels or Nephillim? Will she be able to keep the peace and war at bay? Will she be able to keep she holds dear and near safe? Or will she have to suffer the grief and guilt of losing a friend, lover, another parent?

Will her newly inherited position at the heart of the war destroy the love Nora and Patch have always fought for?

In my opinion, Nora Grey has always been a strong character with a presence. The red haired, slender high school senior still remains someone readers can relate to. She's strong and vulnerable, headstrong and compassionate, witty and endearing. As for Patch, the badass with a heart, is still sexy as all hell. But I have to admit there was a couple of times when he spoke and I remember thinking to myself: "That's kind of cheesy. Patch wouldn't say something that whack!" No real harm done, though. I'm still a Patch Girl.

With that, I have to say that I've been a faithful Hush, Hush fan since I picked up copy of the first installment at Barnes & Noble back in 2008. So then it should be no surprise that I pre-ordered the fourth and final book of the series, Finale -- title of which I hate, for what should be obvious reasons --, and am sad to see the series' end. However, I am glad Becca Fitzpatrick, author extraordinaire, brought Patch and Nora's story to an end on a good note. All the readers and "Team Patch's out there can rest easy because there will be a rainbow at the end of the storm.

Here is a couple of my favorite quotes from Finale:

*Readers Beware:* Spoilers ahead!

Nora & Patch: “Patch hooked his elbow around my neck and dragged me into a kiss. 'Every time you strip my sword, I owe you a kiss. How's that sound?'
I bit my lip to keep from giggling. 'That sounds really dirty.''' -- Page 378

Vee to Nora: "'I see how it is. I'm gonna have to walk in front of all those people with my undies waving in the air, and you don't even care,' Vee said, but she, too, was grinning. She took a Band-Aid from her purse and slapped it over the torn fabric." -- Page 451

Nora & Patch: “Inside our cozy, private room, I reached up and tugged on his silk necktie, undoing the knot. 'You dress to impress,' I said approvingly.
'No, Angel.' He leaned in, his teeth softly grazing my ear. "I undress to impress." -- Page 454

*** Check out Becca Fitzpatrick's website for more information about her, Finale and the rest of the Hush, Hush series: HERE

Happy Reading!