Top Ten Tuesday: Top 10 Books of 2013

The Broke and the Bookish hosts this fun meme. Stop by their site to participate.

It's been ages since I did this meme, but I figured it was the perfect chance for me to share my favorite reads this year. It was so hard to narrow it down to ten, but here it goes. I didn't put them in any particular order either =)

All Our Yesterdays by Cristin Terrill
I really loved the premise for this book as well as how it became so much more than a time travel novel. Characterizations were amazing and the ending left me heartbroken and sobbing.

Going Under by S. Walden
Another heartbreaking book with a realistic and horrifying premise revolving around serial rapists and the girl who tries to take them down. This one stayed with me long after I finished reading.

Archetype by M.D. Waters
This doesn't come out until January, but I'm certain it will be one of the most buzzed about books of the year. Amazing characters and a plot twist I'm still reeling from. Thank goodness the sequel is going to be released in the summer because I would die if I had to wait much longer.

No One Else Can Have You by Kathleen Hale
This is a book people either love or hate, but I absolutely adored it. I read it straight through during a road trip and I was snorting with laughter the entire time. The main character Kippy is one of my favorite narrators of all time.

Surviving Raine by Shay Savage
This book was a huge surprise because I usually hate main characters like Bastian. He's broody and violent, but I ended up really becoming invested in his survival story. He had major chemistry with the sweet and innocent Raine and I couldn't put this book down until I found out if they would make it or not.

Unravel Me by Tahereh Mafi
The final book comes out in a couple of months and I CAN NOT WAIT. This sequel to Shatter Me did not hit a sophomore slump at all and it made me fall in love all over again with the characters.

World After by Susan Ee
I read Angelfell and World After back to back and it quickly became one of my favorite paranormal series. The dystopian world the author created is frightening with the unique idea that angels are the bad guys.

The 5th Wave by Rick Yancey
Alien invasion stories are hit or miss for me and this was a big hit for me. I loved the survival story of Cassie and the twists and turns in the novel that I never saw coming.

Omens by Kelley Armstrong
I love Kelley Armstrong's books and Omens didn't disappoint. It was different than her other novels, but I loved it all the same.

Parallel by Lauren Miller

Although I like standalone books, I almost wish this was a series because of how much I loved the plot and the characters. It also had one of the most interesting love triangles I've ever read.

Top Ten Series I Haven't Finished

The topic for this Top Ten Tuesday from the Broke and the Bookish is the list of series I have not gotten around to finishing. For the most part, I haven’t read the subsequent books because of time constraints. In very few cases, I just couldn’t get into the series at all and only read the first novel.

Heather Wells by Meg Cabot-I was sent the latest for review without having read the first three. It was such a cute story! I want to get to the others eventually.

Women of the Otherwold by Kelley Armstrong-I only read a collection of stories from this series. It was really good! I think the main reason I’ve procrastinated is because there are thirteen novels altogether.

Immortals After Dark by Kresley Cole-This is another example of me procrastinating on the series because of the number of books. I read Lothaire, which was number 12, and would love to go back and read the preceding novels.

Fifty Shades by EL James-When everyone and their mother are talking about something, I have to see what all the hoopla is about. After the first novel, I just couldn’t go any further. I heard some readers say the series improves, so who knows? Maybe one day.

The Mortal Instruments by Cassandra Clare-The reason I haven’t read past book one is because I’m afraid I’ll get sucked in and have to read the others back to back.

The Morganville Vampires by Rachel Caine-These books are amazing, but I have a couple to still catch up on.

Stephanie Plum by Janet Evanovich-I’ve read as far as seven and hope to eventually finish the rest.

Providence by Jamie McGuire-I didn’t love Beautiful Disaster, but got sucked into this paranormal story about angels and demons.

Pulse by Kailin Gow-The first book in this series didn’t flow well and the plot was too reminiscent of several YA vampire novels.

Fall of Angels by Keary Taylor-The premise was good, but the plot and dialogue became too cheesy for me to continue.

Top Ten Books That Make You Think

On today's Top Ten Tuesday, the Broke and the Bookish is asking what books made you think (about the world, people, life and so on). Here is the top books that came to mind when I read the topic (in no particular order).

 My Sister’s Keeper by Jodi Picoult-Although I don’t love every Picoult book, I think she does have a knack for tackling topics that make you take a closer look at your feelings about issues such as genetic planning, adoption and the death penalty.

To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee-Yes, I was the geek quoting this book after reading for Freshman English.

 

The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time by Mark Haddon-I’ve probably talked about how much I love this book. My son is being screened for Asperger’s and this book really changes your perspective on autism.

The Poisonwood Bible by Barbara Kingslover-The story of an Evangelical minister and his family trying to fit in post-colonial Africa is eye-opening.

Columbine by Dave Cullen-This was probably one of the most terrifying books I ever read. I was horrified over the type of violence children are capable of.  

Speechless by Hannah Harrington-This made me take a closer look at bullying and how much being careless with your words can cause harm to others.

A Tree Grows in Brooklyn by Betty Smith-An insightful coming of age novel about growing up poor and learning the art of survival from a young age.

Good Grief by Lolly Winston-This touching novel makes you think of how precious life is and how easily loved ones can be taken away from you before you’re ready for them to go.

The Sound and the Fury by William Faulkner-This book definitely doesn’t have mass appeal, but the story of the tragic Compson family stayed with me for years.

102 Minutes by Jim Dwyer and Kevin Flynn-A must read about the September 11th attacks.

Top Ten Book on My Fall TBR List

Today's Top Ten Tuesday topic from the Broke and the Bookish is the top books on your autumn TBR lists. I honestly feel a little sad when I look at my upcoming titles. There are so many new releases I'm excited about and I don't know how I'm going to have time to get to them all. Between writing, editing and marketing, I think I"ll have to pull some all-nighters to read many of these on my list.

Promised by Caragh O'Brien- The conclusion to the Birthmarked trilogy. WHAT WILL HAPPEN? Will Gaia and Leon live happily ever after? Will she take down the Enclave? Will she find a plastic surgeon to get rid of that pesky scar? Can't wait to find out =)

The Crown of Ember and Thorns by Rae Carson-Girl of Fire and Thorns was so good that I hope the sequel is just as great. Elisa was a fabulous protagonist and I can't wait to read more about her journey.

Eve by Anna Carey-I feel so lame for not getting to this series earlier.

Ceaseless by Abbi Glines-Another final book in a trilogy I've been reading. Will Dank and Pagan (great story but I hate the names) have their happy ending?

Wasteland by Lynn Rush-Very cool author who writes books in the new adult genre. I can't wait!

The Iron Daughter by Julie Kagawa-Just finished the first novel in the Iron Fey series and now I'm officially obsessed.

What's Left of Me by Kat Zhang-I have an ARC of this one and the description reminds me of The Host, one of my all-time favorite books.

City of Ashes by Cassandra Clare-I liked the first book in the Mortal Instruments series, but to be honest the end threw me off. However, the word on the street is this series only gets better and better.

Breathe by Sarah Crossan-This new dystopian release sounds like an interesting entry into the somewhat crowded  genre. The world is dead and survivors must rely on a corporation that manufactures oxygen.

Gone Girl by Gillian Flynn-I have to see what all the buzz is about.

Top Ten Favorite Books I've Read During the Lifespan of My Blog

Today's Broke and the Bookish's Top Ten Tuesday topic is to list your fave books that you've read since starting your blog. Since my blog has only been around six months, the majority of the books are releases from this year. Many of the titles are also included in my Books of Summer Giveaway.

The Reckoning by Kelley Armstrong-The final installment in this incredible series made me eager to read more from this talented author.

Obsidian by Jennifer Armentrout-A fun escapist novel about a bad boy alien who becomes entangled in the life of the girl next door.

Under the Never Sky by Veronica Rossi-I love this dystopian novel about a girl cast out into a savage land. Can’t wait to see what happens next for Aria and Perry. 

Goddess Interrupted by Aimee Carter-Although I loved the first novel in the series better, I was still drawn into the tale of Hades, Persephone and his new love Kate.

 

Something Strange and Deadly by Susan Dennard-My first zombie novel! I loved the characters and 19th century setting.

The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-time by Mark Haddon-This is one of those rare books that can change your perception of people. It was heartbreaking and moving.

Predestined by Abbi Glines-Death falls in love with a human girl and I fall in love with this amazing novel.

 

Masque of the Red Death by Bethany Griffin-A very dark and twisted novel that made me an even bigger germaphobe than I already am.

Throne of Glass by Sarah Maas-Although I’m not usually into fantasy novels, I was beyond impressed with this debut about a competition to become the king’s assassin. 

Size 12 Is Not Fat by Meg Cabot-I love Meg Cabot books, so I’m not sure why it took me so long to get to this series. She is definitely my go-to author when I’m in a funk.

Top Ten Book Romances That You Think Would Make It In The Real World

On the weekly meme for the Broke and the Bookish, the question is what book couples do you think would make it in real life. Kind of lame, but I only came up with eight couples! What’s that say about the type of books I’m reading? New and old visitors, please stop by my giveaway to win one of the book I’ve read this summer.

Chloe and Derek from the Darkest Powers Series by Kelley Armstrong-I don’t know if it is because I just finished this series not too long ago, but the romantic in me imagines these two being together for the rest of their lives.

Noah and Echo from Pushing the Limits by Katie McGarry-Everything about this high school romance felt realistic. It was easy to imagine these two continuing to heal and love each other.

Lizzie and Chaz from Queen of Babble Series by Meg Cabot-If Lizzie stayed with Luke, I would never see it working in real life. They are far too different and their romance always seemed more of a fling. Chaz gets Lizzie and can make her laugh which makes them a perfect match.

Daemon and Katie from Obsidian by Jennifer Armentrout-I don’t know why I see this alien/human couple working in real life, but I just do. Their protectiveness of each other makes me imagine they would last.

Heather and Cooper from the Size 12 Is Not Fat Series by Meg Cabot-Another Cabot pick. I just feel she has a real talent for portraying normal couples that would last once the initial attraction passed.

Portia and Ian from Ex and the Single Girl by Lani Diane Rich-This couple doesn’t have an over the top happily ever after moment at the end. Rich instead writes a practical ending filled with plenty of potential.

Bridget and Darcy from Bridget Jones’s Diary by Helen Fielding-Could anyone ever really imagine Bridget and Daniel ever really making it? Bridget and Darcy’s opposite personalities balance each other out.

Becky Bloomwood and Luke Brandon from the Shopaholic Series by Sophie Kinsella-I love this couple so much that I would be devastated if they didn’t make it in real life.

Top Ten Tuesday: My Top Ten Blog Posts

For the Broke and the Bookish's Top Ten Tuesday meme this week, participants are asked to pick the 10 best reviews/posts that you wish every potential reader of your blog would see. Here are a list of some of my favorite blog posts:

1. Bringing the Funny-How to Add Humor to Novels
2. Casting Couch for First Visions: Second Sight Book One
3. New Adult? Upper Ya? No Market?
4. Exclusive Interview with Psychic Kate Edwards from First Visions
5. My Top Ten Fictional Crushes
6. Making Time to Write With Kids
7. Review: Obsidian by Jennifer Armentrout
8. My Top Ten Books to Read in One Day
9. The Birth of My Other Baby
10. End of May Book Reviews-Providence, Existence and Predestined

Top Ten Characters I’d Like To Switch Places With For 24 Hours

It's a tough one this week on the Broke and the Bookish's Top Ten Tuesday meme. The question is which characters you would want to switch places with for a day. Most of the books I read there would be no way in hell I'd want to be in any of the characters' shoes. Fall in love with a vampire? No thank you. Fight to the death in a nationally televised tournament? Think I will pass if that's all the same to you. And if I see the name Anastasia Steele on anyone's list, I'm going to ask that you get a referral to a psychiatrist. Anyway, here's what I came up with:

Jesse from The Real Real by Emma McLaughlin and Nicola Kraus
I'm sort of a reality show junkie and think it would be fun to see what it's like to star on one.

Heaven from Stupid and Contagious by Caprice Crane
I always love books where the character works in PR, it always sounds like a fun job to me. Plus, Heaven seems to have no sense of personal boundaries which would certainly make it an interesting 24 hours.

Lizzie from the Queen of Babble Series by Meg Cabot
Lizzie's life always seems pretty spectacular to me. She had a rich French boyfriend and then later fell in love with the boy next door. She has plenty of gumption and always lands on her feet no matter what obstacles are thrown her way.  

Becky Bloomwood from the Shopaholic Series by Sophie Kinsella
I would love to be Becky for a day, just to have her credit card limit and spend exorbitant amounts of money on clothes without guilt.

Mia from the Princess Diaries Series by Meg Cabot
Since I grew up dirt poor, it always seemed sort of awesome to find out one day that you're a princess of some random country in Europe.

America from the Selection by Keira Cass
For this 24 hours, it would definitely have to be during the time when the palace isn't under attack. But I wouldn't mind experiencing the opulence of the palace, gorgeous clothing and a romantic prince for a day.

Cassie from the Secret Circle series by LJ Smith
Being a witch seems kind of wild and I wouldn't mind trying out some cool spells for a day.

Lucy from Good Luck by Whitney Gaskell
Yes, Lucy has her share of problems. But she wins the lottery and becomes an instant millionaire, how amazing is that?

Lola from Easily Amused by Karen McQuestion
Her neighbors sound awesome! Most of my neighbors I wouldn't want to meet alone in a dark alley, so she'd be someone I would trade places with for a day.

Kaitlyn from the Dark Visions Series by LJ Smith
I have a strong interest in psychics (pretty obvious since my book is about a psychic) and I always thought it would be fantastic to possess the ability to predict the future.

Top Ten Most Vivid Worlds in Books

Today's Top Ten Tuesday topic from The Broke and the Bookish is the most vivid worlds and settings in books. Most of the ones that come to mind are entries from the dystopian genre with a few exceptions. Remember to follow my blog if you are a new visitor for a chance to win an Amazon gift card and two free ebooks. Entry form is here.

Under the Never Sky by Veronica Rossi-As part of this amazing YA novel, virtual reality is used to replace the horrors of being trapped inside protective domes.

The Road by Cormac McCarthy-I remember vividly the weekend I read this book. This horrifying dystopian world full of ash, hunger and cannibalism gave me nightmares each night.

Something Strange and Deadly by Susan Dennard-I recently read this novel about zombies in 19th century Philadelphia and I really loved how the author transported you back in time by touching upon the customs and expectations of women during this period.

 

The Adoration of Jenna Fox by Mary Pearce-This novel about a not so distant future where biological engineering allows people to basically bring back the dead is not hard to imagine.

The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins-It's scary how easy it is to picture a world where children must fight to their death to appease a totalitarian regime. 

City of Bones by Cassandra Clare-The author expertly creates a world where demons and demon hunters live among us in this urban fantasy.

Birthmarked by Caragh O'Brien-I really could picture myself in this world where mothers are forced to hand over their babies to the rich and privileged. 

Across the Universe by Beth Revis-From the first page, you're drawn into a future where space travel to a new habitable planet is possible.

Masque of the Red Death by Bethany Griffin-You can feel the despair and horror in this dystopian novel as a virus claims most of the population.

Delirium by Lauren Oliver-I think Oliver is a beautiful writer and I felt drawn into a world where love is a disease and there's a cure to get rid of it.

Top 10 Underdog Love Interests in YA Novels

On the Broke and the Bookish, the Top Ten Tuesday topic is what ten books you would recommend readers who like a certain novel. Since I did the Meg Cabot post a couple of weeks ago, I decided to do my own topic and discuss the best underdog love interests.

I am actually a big fan of love triangles, but I usually end up disappointed by the book’s end. The guy I want the heroine to choose usually doesn’t have a chance in hell. The poor sap ends up either heartbroken by the conclusion of the series or the writer hooks him up with another girl (or child apparently in some cases like Jacob Black). Here are a few unpopular “teams” that I’m on.

Jacob Black from the Twilight Series

Ok, I see the draw of Edward. Amazingly beautiful and powerful sparkly vampire can seem enticing to any girl. However, I hated how Bella was around Edward. Her whole “he’s so beautiful, why is he with a loser like me mentality” grated on me. With Jacob, I felt they were both on more equal footing and she didn’t have to go through a transformation to be with him. Plus, I thought he was hysterically funny in the novels.

Julian from Delirium Series

Yes, Alex was pure awesomeness in the first book, but I found myself wanting Lena with Julian from the moment she met him in Pandemonium. I felt that it was very sweet how Alex opened Lena up to the possibility of love and she was able to do the same for Julian.

Linden from the Chemical Garden Series

Why do I love the rich polygamist over the sweet servant? For once, I have no idea. I should totally want Rhine to be with Gabriel, but I don’t. It’s not that Gabriel is particularly unlikable, but I think I enjoyed the author’s characterization of Linden far better.

Damon from the Vampire Diaries Series

The show deviates from the books and I believe this is in part to make it more plausible for Elena to choose either Stefan or Damon. Stefan is the obvious choice in the books, although I loved the dark comedy and heat Damon brings to the novels.

Cam from the Fallen Series

Anyone else find Daniel sort of annoying? I just never bought the damned love between him and Luce. However, the scenes with Cam are by far my favorite.

 

Peter from My Blood Approves

Ugh, this series makes me so mad. Jack seems sweet enough and very earnest, but why wouldn’t Alice be with Peter? It makes no sense to me. She had this blood bond with him and on top of that he’s described as all sorts of tortured and handsome.

Heath from House of Night Series

Poor Heath. I felt he always got the short end of the stick in this vampire YA series. Stark is okay enough for Zoey, but the human boy Zoey dated before she became a vampire has always been my favorite.

Gale from Hunger Games Series

I do like Peeta a lot, so this is probably the most difficult one for me. However, I felt that the connection between Gale and Katniss since childhood made them perfect for one another. Gale also seemed to have an inner strength that the troubled Peeta seemed to lack at times.

 

Myrnin from the Morganville Vampires Series

Shane is funny as hell, but I love the kookiness of vampire Myrnin. He’s very sweet when it comes to Clare and I think it would be nice to see her with someone besides Shane.

Xander from Matched Series

I don’t particularly care for this love triangle between Ky, Cassia and Xander, but if I had to choose one of the two guys, I would go with Xander.

Top Ten Books I Can't Believe I've Never Read

For Top Ten Tueday over at the Broke and the Bookish, it's a freebie week. I looked back over the past topics and decided to choose books that I'm surprised I never got around to reading. Here are the top books that I usually just end up smiling and nodding when friends are discussing:

Harry Potter series by JK Rowling-I feel like a bad reader every time I hear someone mention these books. This is one of the rare occasions where I've seen the movies, but haven't read the novels. For some reason I can't get into epic novels, but enjoy the movies/TV shows.

One Day by David Nicholls-I remember all of the hub-bub when this acclaimed novel came out. I actually have a very good reason for not reading it. I stumbled upon a spoiler that revealed the ending and couldn't bring myself to read it after that.

The Help by Kathryn Stockett-I actually do have plans to eventually read this book and will not watch the movie until I do so.

Never Let Me Go by Kazuo Ishiguro-This book's description sounds super cool, I'm shocked at how long I have let it languish on my TBR list.

Marley and Me by John Grogan-The thought of even reading this book makes me tear up, so I doubt I'll be able to even start it.

The Shack by W. Paul Young-I had really wanted to check out this novel, but mixed reviews kind of put me off.

Then Came You by Jennifer Weiner-I usually like her books, but I'm not typically a fan of stories told from multiple POVs without any initial relevance to one another.

House Rules by Jodi Picoult-I went through an obsessive period where I read a huge number of Jodi Picoult books. Not sure why I haven't gotten to her latest releases.

Black Dawn by Rachel Caine-I'm resistant to Kindle ebooks over the price of $10, so I think I'm just going to wait until a price drop for the latest Morganville Vampires release.  

Crossed by Ally Condie-I really enjoyed the first Matched book, but I kind of forget what happened. I might re-read it before picking up the sequel.

Top Ten Books For People Who Like Meg Cabot

For today's Broke and the Bookish's Top Ten Tuesday topic, you are asked what top books would you recommend for someone who is a fan of a particular author. I was going to choose Stephenie Meyer, but felt like that would be someone a lot of authors choose. Plus, I think Meg Cabot ventures into a lot of different genres, many of which I am a fan of.


The A-List by Zoey Dean-This young adult series centers around a group of privileged students living in LA. The Airhead series by Meg, also provides a glimpse into how the rich and famous live.

One for the Money by Janet Evanovich-If you like the Heather Wells series by Cabot, than you're likely to get a kick out of the Stephanie Plum series as well. Both books feature their own quirky cast of characters and the book mysteries are humorous and full of fun.

Can You Keep a Secret? by Sophie Kinsella-This book always reminds me of the Queen of Babble series. The main characters both have a tendency towards over-sharing which leads to plenty awkward and hysterical situations.

I Do But I Don't by Cara Lockwood-If you like the book Every Boy's Got One, you'll enjoy this story. Like Cabot's novel, protagonist finds love while trying to salvage a disastrous wedding.


Forget About It by Caprice Crane-Crane's writing style reminds me of Cabot. This cute story is about a girl who pretends to have amnesia to get out of her sucky life and start over.

Gossip Girl by Cecily Von Ziegesar-This series isn't afraid to be silly and I enjoy that about Meg's books as well. Sometimes you just need to turn your brain off and just go with the storyline.

Frenemies by Megan Crane-I love Meg Cabot's books because they always feel like fun and breezy reads. Megan Crane's books are also like that for me. This one is about a girl whose good friend starts dating her boyfriend.

Keeping the Moon by Sarah Dessen-Like Cabot, Dessen has a wonderful knack for telling coming of age stories.

The Vampire Diaries by LJ Smith-If you like Meg's Insatiable series, then check out this series, even if you're a fan of the TV show. The books are completely different, but still absolutely wonderful.

Sloppy Firsts by Megan McCafferty-Another amazing young adult author. I think fans of The Princess Diaries would enjoy the hysterically funny Jessica Darling series.

Top 10 Characters Who Remind Me of Myself or Someone I Know in Real Life

I've been neglecting my participation in the Broke and the Bookish weekly meme, but I'm back in it this week! For this week's Top Ten Tuesday, the topic is to pick ten characters who remind you of yourself or someone you know. This is a tough one, but I'll try my darndest. I haven't named names since I don't want any family or friends pissed at me!

Becky from Mini Shopaholic by Sophie Kinsella-I love Becky from the Shopaholic series! I pretty much find everything she says hysterically funny. The friend I'm thinking of spends a zillion dollars on toys, clothes, etc. and justifies it because it's for her kids.

Jeb from The Host by Stephenie Meyer-You know how in the book they said the crazy and the paranoid people would be the one to survive an alien invasion? Well, this describes a certain family member of mine to a T. She believes a planet called Nibiru is coming towards Earth and has prepared by putting together survival supplies and cashing in her 401K plan. I bet she can't wait to say I told you so if the world does end.

Charlie Swan from Twilight by Stephenie Meyer-I've always been a fan of Bella's father and I've known a single dad who sometimes struggles to connect with his teenage daughter.

Meredith from Everyone Else's Girl by Megan Crane-In this book, the main character tries to escape her family, but finds herself suckered back in and ends up taking care of her injured father without any help from her siblings. The person I'm thinking of is the people pleaser who ends up feeling like a martyr as her family takes advantage of her time and time again.


Ben Page from Seeing Me Naked by Liza Palmer-The main character is the daughter of a famous novelist with an inflated sense of self-worth. He also revels in tearing others down who he deems inferior to him. I know a not so nice guy who has these same qualities.

Lizzie from Queen of Babble by Meg Cabot-I love Lizzie and think she's hysterically funny. I also know several friends (and probably myself included) who have a tendency to put their foots in their mouths and blurt out whatever they're thinking.

Joe Morelli from One for the Money by Janet Evanovich-A Trenton cop with a down to earth personality. Definitely reminds me of a certain guy.


Mrs. X from The Nanny Diaries by Emma McLaughlin and Nicole Kraus-I wish I didn't come across as many Mrs. Xs as I do, but raising a preschooler close by the city, it's almost impossible not to.

Cannie Shapiro from Good in Bed by Jennifer Weiner-I think Cannie is an enjoyable character and I think many girls see themselves in her and the struggle to learn to love yourself in spite of your weight.

Andrea Sachs from The Devil Wears Prada by Lauren Weisberger-I've think many people (myself included) have had to deal with a boss from hell.

Top Books Written In The Past 10 Years That I Hope People Are StillReading In 30 Years

Today’s Top Ten Tuesday topic at the Broke and the Bookish is the top books written in the past decade that you feel people should still be reading thirty years from now. I only came up with seven books I feel are modern-day classics. Here are my thoughts:


Harry Potter series by JK Rowling

Although I’m a book nerd, you’d probably be shocked to learn that I actually never read the series. I did watch all of the movies though =) The series has made such a strong impact that I wouldn’t be surprised that people are reading them a hundred years from now no less thirty.

The Kite Runner by Khaled Hosseini

An insightful novel about a boy living in war-torn Afghanistan. This seems destined to be added to curriculums around the world.


The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time by Mark Haddon

This book is so much more than simply a teenage boy investigating the death of a neighborhood dog. It’s a rare and insightful character study on how someone with autism views the world.

Extremely Loud and Incredibly Close by Jonathan Safran Foer

This equally tragic and hopeful novel is sure to be read decades from now as individuals try to gain insight into post-9/11 America.

Water for Elephants by Sara Gruen

With beautiful and captivating prose, Gruen completely transports you to another time and place.

The Road by Cormac McCarthy

Never before has a book sent me into a darker place. This modern-day classic explores how even the end of the world can not destroy all of the good in humanity.

Pride and Prejudice and Zombies by Seth Grahame-Smith

Okay, I don’t know if this will still be read thirty years from now, but it SHOULD. Grahame-Smith’s genius has already spawned a legion of copycats.

My Top Ten Fictional Crushes

This is a freebie week on the Broke and the Bookish’s Top Ten Tuesday meme. Since I’ve only been doing the posts for a few weeks, I decided to go back and choose one of the older topics. My selection is Fictional Crushes. Although I’m happily married, I can’t help, but swoon a little over these characters from my favorite books:

Ian O'Shea from the Host by Stephenie Meyer-I have such a huge literary crush on Ian. Black hair, sapphire eyes and such a sensitive side (his profession that he would love Wanderer no matter what body she was in had me in tears).


Eric Northman from the Southern Vampire Mysteries by Charlaine Harris-Ok, I'll admit this crush may be tied to Alexander Skarsgard from True Blood, but I do tend to be drawn to characters who aren’t the cookie cutter boy next door types. A bad boy vampire who would kill for you and who’s over six feet and blond, definitely swoonworthy.

Henry from the Goddess Test by Aimee Carter-Not only is he a gorgeous and powerful god, but he’s guarded and mysterious. I think his aloofness seems to be a big draw for me. Who wouldn't want to be the girl who he fell in love with after knowing how heartbroken he was for hundreds and hundreds of years after Persephone left him for Adonis?


Peeta Mellark and Gale Hawthorne from the Hunger Games Trilogy by Suzanne Collins-I can honestly empathize with Katniss. How do you choose from these two heartbreakers? Gale is strong and knows her better than anyone. Peeta is the boy who’s loved her from afar (sigh).

Gage Oliver from the Celestra Series by Addison Moore-This wonderful series focuses a lot on Skyla’s choice between cousins (sort-of) Logan and Gage. Gage is tall, dark and sexy and tough with a sensitive side (he writes Skyla poetry). Logan’s never done it for me and I would have to pick Marshall as her second choice if she doesn’t end up with Gage.

Joe Morelli from the Stephanie Plum Series by Janet Evanovich-Not only are these books awesome because they are set in my neighboring city of Trenton, but they feature one of my favorite cop characters of all time: Joe Morelli. He’s funny, loyal and sexy­-could he be any more perfect?

Damon Salvatore from the Vampire Diaries by LJ Smith-I guess I have a thing for damaged and dangerous vampires. It also doesn’t hurt that Ian Somerhalder plays the TV version of the character.

Leon Grey from Birthmarked by Caragh O’Brien-Leon was so perfect in this awesome series from O’Brien. He comes off as arrogant at times, but his many sacrifices for Gaia as well as his strength make him one of my top crushes.

Chaz Pendergast from the Queen of Babble Series by Meg Cabot-I had a tough time selecting my last pick (couldn’t decide if I wanted to include those Twilight boys or not), but my brain kept returning to Chaz. Cabot makes Chaz seem so “real,” it makes you understand Lizzie’s attraction to him. He’s funny, down-to-earth and romantic without the sappiness.

Top Ten Book Quotes

This week's the Broke and the Bookish Top Ten Tuesday topic is your favorite book quotes. Here's mine (by the way I left out who is saying the quote to remain spoiler-free):


"You love me, real or not real?" I tell him, "Real." Mockingjay, Suzanne Collins

"It is very often nothing but our own vanity that deceives us." Pride and Prejudice, Jane Austen

"That's the flip side of freedom; When you're completely free, you're also completely on your own.” Pandemonium, Lauren Oliver

"It's funny. All you have to do is say something nobody understands and they'll do practically anything you want them to." Catcher in the Rye, J.D. Salinger

"When life offers you a dream so far beyond any of your expectations, it’s not reasonable to grieve when it comes to an end." Twilight, Stephenie Meyer

“I love new clothes. If everyone could just wear new clothes everyday, I reckon depression wouldn’t exist anymore.” Sophie Kinsella, Confessions of a Shopaholic

“If you look the right way, you can see that the whole world is a garden.” The Secret Garden, Frances Hodgson Burnett

“You forget what you want to remember, and you remember what you want to forget.” The Road, Cormac McCarthy


“Maybe the truth is, there's a little bit of loser in all of us. Being happy isn't having everything in your life be perfect. Maybe it's about stringing together all the little things.”Ann Brashares, The Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants

“You have brains in your head. You have feet in your shoes. You can steer yourself any direction you choose. You're on your own. And you know what you know. And YOU are the one who'll decide where to go...” Dr. Seuss, Oh the Places You'll Go!

Top Ten Books to Be Made Into Movies

The Top Ten Tuesday Topic for this week on the Broke and the Bookish is the top ten books we would love to see made into movies. When I though up my picks, I realized I had quite an eclectic mix. These are my picks in no particular order:



Delirium by Lauren Oliver

Plenty of action and a tragic love story-what could make for a better movie?

Can You Keep a Secret? by Sophie Kinsella

I would think this book would work so well as a romantic comedy. A funny actress paired with a handsome actor who could play a CEO type would work great.

Dark Visions by LJ Smith

Since Secret Circle and Vampire Diaries now both have TV series, I think this would work as well for movies or TV. Although some of the plot points may have to be updated, a modern telling about the school for psychics would surely be a hit.

The Goddess Hunt by Aimee Carter

I’m sort of obsessed with this book and always picture it as a movie. I like the idea of gods and goddesses posing as humans to help find a bride for the ruler of the Underworld.

Sloppy Firsts by Megan McCafferty

I know there are a ton of fans of these books (myself included) and this could be made into a really funny and touching coming of age movie.

The Betrayal of Natalie Hargrove by Lauren Kate

Although I love the Fallen series, I never really like how angel stories translate to screen. Ambition, blackmail and murder at a ritzy high school make for a fun popcorn movie.

Frenemies by Megan Crane

This could be a Mean Girls for the twenty-something set. Also, would love to be in charge of casting the rich bad boy Henry.

My Sweet Audrina by VC Andrews

Another one of my teen obsessions, me and my childhood BFF felt completely scandalized after reading each one of her books. This standalone novel was one of the few that weren’t too out there (i.e. no incest) to actually be made into a movie.

Before I Go to Sleep by SJ Watson

An exciting thriller with a main character suffering from short term memory loss (Memento Part 2?).

Any Judy Blume Book

Are you like me and have such a soft spot for the coming of age author? Not sure how well some of her books would translate into film, but it would be interesting to see my childhood faves appear on screen.

Top Ten All Time Favorite Characters

On the Broke and the Bookish, the Roundtable for this week is your top ten favorite characters. These are my faves in no particular order. My boys have slept in, so I’m hoping that I didn’t forget anyone as I try to rush this post out before the little monsters wake up.

1. Wanderer from the Host by Stephenie Meyer-Meyer’s depiction of an alien snatching soul who learns how to be human made this book one of my favorites.
2. Becky Bloomwood from Shopaholic Series by Sophie Kinsella-Her inner musings always leaves me hysterical.
3. Damon Salvatore from The Vampire Diaries by LJ Smith-I was a teen when I started reading these books, so it was strange for me when it became a TV series a couple of years ago. Damon was always my fave over Stefan.
4. Lula from One for the Money by Janet Evanovich-The Stephanie Plum series has been my go-to summer books since I’m also a Trenton girl. Lula is one of those crazy characters you can never forget.
5. Jessica Darling from Sloppy Firsts by Megan McCafferty-I love sarcastic and funny main characters and Jessica definitely fits the bill.
6. Thomas from Helper12 by Jack Blaine-Although the protag was almost my choice as a fave, I had to go with Thomas. I felt he brought out what was best in her.
7. Katniss Everdeen from the Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins-Who doesn’t love Katniss? She’s badass and sacrifices herself to save her sister.
8.  Fitwilliam Darcy from Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen-Who doesn’t fall in love with Darcy during the course of this classic?
9. Henry from the Goddess Test by Aimee Carter-Damaged, heartbroken and gorgeous, what makes a better love interest? Oh and his selected mate will rule the Underworld with him.
10. Elisa from the Girl of Fire and Thorns by Rae Carson-It’s rare in fantasy YA to find such a relatable character that experiences so much growth in the course of a single novel.

Top Ten Books That Were Totally Deceiving

The new top ten topic this week over at the Broke and the Bookish is the top novels you find deceiving. It could be the cover or the summary that threw you off. Here's my list of books that I find best fit with this distinction:

Halo by Alexandra Adornetto-I hope the cover artist got a huge paycheck because I know a ton of readers who purchased this novel based on the gorgeous cover. The book was a major letdown.

Darkest Mercy by Melissa Marr-After Wicked Lovely, I tried again and again to give this series a shot. The description of the conclusion and the gorgeous cover suckered me in again. Just never came together for me.

Thirteen Reasons Why by Jay Asher-The book summary sounded so good with praise like a “modern classic” and thrilling and addictive.” I found it implausible with no connect to the characters.

Second Helpings by Megan McCafferty-I never liked the covers for the Jessica Darling series. Although some of the novels went off-course for me, this one had me cracking up.

The Unbecoming of Mara Dyer by Michelle Hodkin-Nice cover, but never saw how it tied into the book.

Pulse by Kailin Gow-The description sounded interesting enough and the reviews on Amazon were very positive. By the middle, it completely fell apart and then abruptly ended.

Morganville Vampires Series by Rachel Caine-The covers always seem cheesy and immature to me. The series is anything but.

Branded by Keary Taylor-Both the cover and the description drew me in. Although the premise was great and the afterlife descriptions were captivating by the end of the book I couldn’t stop rolling my eyes.

Helper12 by Jack Blaine-The book cover was completely bland, but it was an amazing and exciting dystopian YA entry.

The Girl of Fire and Thorns by Rae Carson-The cover and summary didn’t really appeal to me, but I decided to give it a shot anyway. Wow is all I have to say. Not your typical damsel in distress story at all.

My Top Ten Books to Read in One Day

On the Broke and the Bookish, they host a weekly Top Ten Tuesday where book-themed blogs all post on the same topic. This week’s theme is the top ten books that you were so excited about that you couldn’t put it down. Who needs to eat and bathe when you have a good book in your hand? I’m sure I’ll remember later other faves, but here are the ten off the top of my head.

1. The Host by Stephenie Meyer-I looove this book! I actually prefer it to the Twilight series. It’s amazing how she was able to create a sympathetic character out of a body snatching alien.


2. Delirum by Lauren Oliver-I read this right after Crossed by Ally Condie and I could not put it down. And Oh God the ENDING!!!


3. Ethereal and rest of the Celestra Series by Addison Moore-If you have not read this YA series about angel bloodlines on earth, do so right now! Plot is fast-paced and the MC is hysterical!


4. Birthmarked by Caragh M. O'Brien-This book may be another YA dystopian novel, but it’s a cut above many of the others I read. Features a teen mid-wife who delivers babies that she must hand over to a tyrannical society.


5. Blackbird House by Alice Hoffman-If you’ve never read anything by Hoffman, this is a good one to start with. It’s a series of short stories interconnected through a New England cottage. Her language is hypnotic and she’s such an amazing storyteller.


6. Lothaire by Kresley Cole-After reading a lot of YA paranormal romance novels, I was kind of hesitant to try out a few adult versions. This book was one of the first I read in the genre and I don't think I slept until the book was finished. Plenty of action and some very STEAMY love scenes.


7. Fever by Lauren DeStefano-This is a YA dystopian novel with an interesting twist. Genetic engineering has produced a virus that kills you before you reach the age of 25.


8. Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins-I’m afraid to see the movie because I love this book so much. Once Katniss heads into the games, you won’t be able to stop reading.


9. The Night Villa by Carol Goodman-Goodman is another one of my faves with standouts also including the Drowning Tree and the Lake of Dead Languages. A murder mystery and Italian setting drives the story.


10. Confessions of a Shopaholic and sequels by Sophie Kinsella-This book I couldn’t put down because it was so freaking funny. I love books that make you laugh so loud that your husband looks at you as if you’ve lost your mind.