Hourglass by Myra McEntire

Hourglass by Myra McEntire
Released: June 14, 2010
Published by: Egmont USA
Reviewed by: AmyG


Summary from goodreads.com

One hour to rewrite the past . . .

For seventeen-year-old Emerson Cole, life is about seeing what isn’t there: swooning Southern Belles; soldiers long forgotten; a haunting jazz trio that vanishes in an instant. Plagued by phantoms since her parents’ death, she just wants the apparitions to stop so she can be normal. She’s tried everything, but the visions keep coming back.

So when her well-meaning brother brings in a consultant from a secretive organization called the Hourglass, Emerson’s willing to try one last cure. But meeting Michael Weaver may not only change her future, it may change her past.

Who is this dark, mysterious, sympathetic guy, barely older than Emerson herself, who seems to believe every crazy word she says? Why does an electric charge seem to run through the room whenever he’s around? And why is he so insistent that he needs her help to prevent a death that never should have happened?

Full of atmosphere, mystery, and romance, Hourglass merges the very best of the paranormal and science-fiction genres in a seductive, remarkable young adult debut.

Holy Toledo, Hourglass!!!  I've been hearing about how amazing this book for months now, and not to mention the gorgeous cover!!!  I read it the day it came out, and then read it again the next week!  Let me just say, and I hope I can get the words perfect, UN-FREAKIN-BELIEVABLE!!!  Fair warning, this is just going to be a complete gush festival of fan-girling.  This is just one of those books that require it!  Before I just completely start blubbering about this book, I need to lay down some kind of structure.  Since, I love lists, instead of doing my normal 3 things I like, I'll list the top ten things I love about this novel!

1.  The meltiness, oh the meltiness

Myra McEntire, my friend, you know how to make a girl melt.  I was literally flipping through the pages with giddiness and the goofiest grin on my face!  If you like those butterflies in your tummy, and your insides turning to complete mush, then sprint to get this book right now!  As I was reading this, I was dropped right back into the days of dating my hubby!  That feeling of meltiness is the reason I am married and have 3 kids today!  Thanks goodness these boys are just fictional, I would be in quite the dilemma at this moment!

2.  Emerson

First off, Baby Sister Britt and I have always loved this name!  If I could re-pick a name for myself, I would be an Emerson!  And this Emerson, lives up to her name!  She's a perfect fit!  She's not the annoying naive heroine that graces many pages of these YA novels.  She's real.  She's dealt with pain, tragedy, guilt, and suffering, but through it all she's not a hollow shell.  She can still laugh!  I love the things that come out of her mouth.  I found myself several times say, "She is so me!!!"  I say the same things she does!  "Kill me!"  I think we all love being able to see ourselves in a character!

3.  Time-travel

Man, do I love time travel!  I've been begging Baby-Sis-B to write me a time-travel novel for years!  There's something about the possibility of being able to go back.  To go back to the times and places we love, we've studied about, or we've read about.    How many of us have dreamed about going back to the Regency Era and meeting our own Mr. Darcy or Mr. Rochester?!?  The idea of time travel puts the world at our fingertips!

4.  Michael

, Melty McMeltiness is my new name for Michael.  If absolutely perfect, nice guys are your thing, then Michael is your new YA Man!  After reading this, your mind will be in tatters at the price he is willing to pay for Emerson!  I'm still blown away and its been a few weeks since I've read this novel!  He is suave, handsome, and has a way with words that will bring you to your knees!  Also, I can't forget to mention that his chemistry is literal!  Every time McMelty and Emerson touch, waves of electricity churn between them until lights are blown out!  Now that is setting the place on fire!

5.  Kaleb

Oh Kaleb, my Kaleb!  If only I could put into words the amazingness of Kaleb!  The more he sits in my head, the more I love him!  He is broken!  I mean the epitome of brokenness!  Which means for me, that I am all over that like white of rice!  You know how I love my broken boys!  I could spend the rest of my life fixing him!  His brokenness stems from not only loss but from the fact that he is an empath.  To constantly feel everyone's emotions with no filter would be unbearable.  With that though, he knows what you are feeling without having to say a word!  The reason I am slightly obsessed with broken boys is because they always step up when the time is at hand!  Many times they come off as cocky and aloof, but usually that is just a facade.  When the poop hits the fan, the broken boys come running, in their superman capes!  In Hourglass, when that time comes for Kaleb, it will leave you shattered and moved to the core!  Seriously, if you have not read this book, go read it NOW!!!  

6.  Super-powers

I know I've only talked about Michael, Emerson and Kaleb thus far.  But, there is a whole slew of other characters in residence in Hourglass.  The Hourglass is an X-men type school or place for young people to come for safety and to fine tune their abilities.  We didn't get to see much of them in the this book, but I have a feeling they are all going to come into play in the future books!  Its a great cast of characters that you are not going to want to miss!

7.  Time

Wow, the whole concept of time!  If you just sit back and really think about time, it is completely mind boggling!  Is time always on a plain?  If you change something in the past, will your present or future self even realize it?  Or will it simply just become apart of you, and your mind wiped clean of the differences?  I've been tying by mind in knots trying to come to a concrete understanding of something so very abstract!  Come join me, its great fun!!!    

8.  The South

Tennessee, the backdrop of many of my dreams of living during the frontier days!  There is something about The South that creates such a rich setting for novels.  The history, the plantations, the hot, steamy temperatures make the world in Hourglass come alive.  One of the characteristics of a time-traveler is the ability to see rips, in a way ghosts.  Now, picture being able to see rips in a place with such historical roots as Tennessee!  Walking down the street, you don't know who you will encounter, southern belles, Native Americans, Revolutionary or Civil War soldiers, the lists goes on and on.  I have a feeling the South will continue to be a mainstay for future novels!

MY LAST 2 ARE GOING TO CONTAIN SERIOUS SPOILERS!  PLEASE DO NOT READ IF YOU HAVE NOT READ THIS NOVEL.  CLICK MORE BELOW TO KEEP READING!

YA Crush Tourney: Tod vs. Michael Goes to Tod

AND THE WINNER IS:

TOD

Some general rules before we begin:

There may be some spoilers in the following post. We've tried to keep it fairly general, but overall, this Tourney will not be spoiler-free. So beware. 

Secondly, You are welcome to write your own comments about either character in the comments section, but we will not tolerate rudeness. The minute it crosses over from logical argument into character bashing, your comments will be deleted and your vote canceled.

And finally, due to some epic voting and the crashing of multiple websites, the matches will now only be open for voting for 24 hours, rather than 40. So, now it's even more important to get the word out and the votes in quickly. 

Tod Hudson(seed #20)

Tod Hudson is from the Soul Screamer by Rachel Vincent. You can learn more about it here. And be on the lookout for a review of the series soon here at YA Sisterhood! Tod is represented by Rachel Clarke. You can reach her at any of the following places:

Blog: Fiktshun.com (But I'll be posting any tourney related posts on my blog annex Fiktshuns-ramblings.blogspot.com)

Twitter: @Fiktshun

Blog FB page: http://www.facebook.com/pages/Fiktshun/167196403318584

Personality:

Tod Hudson may be a reaper, but he is anything but grim. And although he may look innocent, he is trouble. He is a reaper after all. Someone assigned to collect souls. Someone who takes a walk on the wild side and ventures into the Netherworld on occasion. And someone who is no stranger to the Hellions and Demons that call it home.

Now, he may not be your typical bad boy, I don’t know many reapers who are, but he is definitely not someone to bring home to meet the parents. Kaylee Cavanaugh’s Dad certainly doesn’t like him hanging around his daughter and they’re not even dating. Especially when he can just come and go as he pleases - any parents worst nightmare. And it seems to please him quite a bit to visit Kaylee. At night. Alone. In her room. Forever stuck at 17, Tod is an eternal boy.

But Tod has another side. And that one is charming, funny and sarcastic. He is mischievous and has one heck of a wicked grin for someone with such an angelic face. He likes to pop in at the most inconvenient times. And surprising Kaylee is one of his favorite things to do. Well... that and popping in on Kaylee and Nash when they don’t particularly want to be disturbed. Tod definitely has issues with boundaries.

The best thing about Tod isn’t his boyish charm or his sense of humor. If that were all Tod had going for him, he wouldn’t have made made my list of crush-worthy boys. It’s his loyalty. Tod is one fiercely loyal bean-sidhe turned reaper.

He will do anything in his power to protect those he cares about. It makes him brave and foolish and reckless to the point of stupidity at times, but his loyalty makes him completely swoon-worthy. What girl wouldn’t want a boy who would go to the ends of the earth to protect her, do whatever he can to make her happy, or cry for her when he can’t?

Tod quick facts: A total flirt, charming, mischievous, not one to play by the rules, funny, sarcastic, bad boy, loves a challenge, brave, reckless, chivalrous, vulnerable, loyal, self-sacrificing.

Looks:

Tod is definitely mighty fine to look at. He may not be one, but he looks like an angel. Blond curly hair, bright blue sparkling eyes, super sexy thick boy-lashes, perfect full lips, strong, square chin which sports a small goatee. He is total eye-candy.

I usually tend to go for the dark, brooding, dangerous types, but over the course of this series Tod has definitely caught my eye. I’m thinking he’s a stone cold fox. He will be forever young. As a reaper he will never look older than 17. And even though he may be a reaper he has his soul. Just stare into those bright blue eyes and you will get lost. And that’s not from some powers of Influence.

But it’s those kissable lips that are quick with a smile, always ready to quirk up into a lopsided grin, that make Tod the ultimate crush-worthy boy in the looks department. His eyes may be magnetic, but it’s those lips that would be tough to look away from.

Tod quick facts: Angelic, bright blue eyes, sexy smile, perfect, full oh-so-kissable lips, with a lower lip he loves to bite while thinking, thick lashes, pale blond, curly hair, face that expresses his emotions.

Talents:

Oh, Tod is one talented reaper. He can materialize wherever he wants, whenever he wants. And as he doesn’t need sleep he has a lot of free time on his hands to drop in, unannounced, on his friends and family. Whether they want him to or not.

This can come in handy when there’s trouble, but can be awkward when you don’t want company. And it makes for some quick travel options since he can take you along for the ride.

He can choose who he wants to see and hear him. And can appear to only some people and not others if he feels like it.

As a reaper he doesn’t need to eat, but he can taste and enjoy food. No problem with the pleasure sensors or taste buds in his mouth.

He doesn’t age, which practically makes him immortal. As he’s technically not alive, he can’t get older.

He also has the power to end a life and take possession of a soul. For some power-hungry reapers this can be a problem, but for one as good-hearted as Tod, this is nothing to worry about.

He can move between this world and the Netherworld. It may not seem such an important talent to me or you, but if you had to rescue someone’s soul from a demon who had them trapped, you’d want someone who could bring you in and out of that world as quickly as possible. Just sayin’.

A phenomenal kisser. That’s all I’ll say for right now, but for those in the know, you can back me up on that.

Tod quick facts: Instant teleportation, selective invisibility, ability to end a life and take a soul - yeah it’s grim, but it’s still pretty cool - no need to eat or sleep, ageless, awesome kisser and it’s not just because he has such perfect lips.

Special Attributes:

Since I’ve included most of Tod’s attributes in the personality, looks and talents departments, I thought I’d just give a few examples of why Tod is so full of awesome and why he deserves the title, “Hero.”

*His first assignment as a reaper he saved the life of a little girl that was on the list.

*He sacrificed his own life to save someone he loved and kept it a secret so that they wouldn’t have to feel guilty. (If that’s not totally swoon-worthy I don’t know what is!)

*He turned himself corporeal to punch Nash for what he did to Kaylee.

*He watched out for Kaylee’s friend Emma when she was in trouble.

*He went to the Netherworld to try and save the soul of his ex-girlfriend.

*He told Kaylee what she needed to hear about Nash and Sabine, even if it would make her hate him.

*He is frequently willing to put his “life” on the line for those he loves.

*And he is always ready to fight for what he wants.

Tod quick facts: Hero. Seriously, do I need to say more here? He’s a hero in every sense of the word.

What makes Tod better than Michael?

"So why is Tod Hudson better than Michael Weaver?

This is actually a difficult argument to make since I haven’t had a chance to meet Michael. I am certain that he’s swoon-worthy or he wouldn’t have been voted into the Tourney. But even if I had met Michael, I’m certain that Tod would still outrank him on my list of crush-worthy boys.

From what I understand, Michael doesn’t have any special abilities. He is a consultant for Hourglass and actually requires Emerson’s abilities to help him.

Tod has his own wicked cool powers and while he may work with others who have abilities, he does just fine on his own.

I’ve also heard that Michael is kind, smart, dark, with an olive complexion, and mysterious. These all sound like incredibly great qualities to have. Who doesn’t want someone who is kind and smart? And if you like them dark and mysterious then Michael fits that bill.

Well, Tod is kind. So kind that he would sacrifice himself for anyone he loves.

He’s smart. Smart enough to punch his brother for all the crap that he put Kaylee through.

He may not be dark. Tod is all about the light. His angelic features, blond hair and gorgeous blue eyes make this Reaper absolutely heavenly to look at. Dark can be good, but light can be even better.

Mysterious? Tod can be mysterious…when he wants to be. Who really knows what Tod’s up to during those hours when Kaylee or Nash are asleep? He might be hanging out in the Netherworld, stirring up trouble for demons. Tod does a lot of things in secret. Things that are almost always for someone else’s benefit. So yeah, Tod is a mystery.

Michael is also said to be a gentleman and “broody.” Well gentlemanly is always good. Broody, it depends. Brooding can be sexy, it can also be frustrating.

Tod is absolutely a gentleman. If you looked it up in the dictionary you’d probably see his picture right next to the definition. He’s kind of automatically a gentleman since he was willing to sacrifice himself for the ones he loves. Besides, Tod is always willing to help out Kaylee and Emma. And he’s always ready to step in when Kaylee is about to risk her virtue with Nash.

But why is Tod really better than Michael?

1. Because he’s Tod.

2. Because he’s not 1/3 of a love triangle.

3. Because that Reaper has been around a lot longer and has proven himself worthy time and time again over the course of the series and not once has he faltered.

4. Because he’s about to do a lot of somethings that are so totally amazing in the next book that he would knock Jace Wayland off his throne of awesomeness."

Anything else you'd like to add?

I'd like to make a final plea for Tod. Those who've only read the first book or two of the series may not have gotten the warm and fuzzies over him. There may not have been any insta-love connection. I know it wasn't like that for me and Tod. I was a Nash fan all the way...

...All the way through the middle of the second book in the series when that slow anger toward Nash began building.

For those who have read all four books in the series and both novellas you may have a little more love for Tod, but still might not be fully convinced that he is crush-worthy. But let me tell you that he so totally is! And if this tourney was just a few months later, after the release of If I Die, I wouldn't even have to do anything to convince you here and now.

But Tod made me smile, he made me cry, he made me breathless and made my heart stop. More than once. If that doesn't make him crush-worthy I don't know what would.

Thanks so much, and I know that Tod would love your vote!

Michael (Seed 5)

The smoldering Michael is from Myra McEntire's debut novel Hourglass. You can find out more about her and Hourglass by clicking her name on our side bar. Plus you can check out our Teaser Tuesday of Hourglass here. Michael is being rep'd by our own magnificent, honorary sister, Bethany.

Personality:
Are you a literate lady looking for the most delicious fictional crush since Mr. Darcy? Well, look no further, girls… Michael Weaver has arrived!

If you’d like a southern gentleman with an edge, Michael is the man for you. Chivalry, honor and charm
aren’t dead, and Michael’s got them—in spades. He’ll hold open doors and win over your family. He puts his friends and family first, and won’t make promises he can’t keep. He even tips well!

What’s more, he is THE most selfless guy in this entire tournament. If not dying on your dates is important to you, Michael is the way to go. Unlike so many of the other guys in this competition, he won’t even think about killing you! Always a plus. Not only that, but he can—and has—died for love. You’re in safe, strong, big hands with him!

But most importantly, Michael is genuinely loving. He makes the girl he loves feel like the most special person in the world and will, literally, go to any lengths to protect her.
Looks:

It’s probably a good thing that Michael is fictional, because if anyone this gorgeous were real, he’d have an army of stalkers on his hands. Throughout the book, he’s described as, “a prince too gorgeous to be walking around with peasants,” a dark angel, and an old-Hollywood, Cary Grant type.

Plus, he’s BUILT. And, if that doesn’t get you, what about the wickedly arched dark eyebrows, the olive skin, the defined cheekbones? The smell of citrus and clean laundry. The mellow, husky voice. And the mouth. The full, disarming mouth with a smile like “buttered biscuits and honey.”
Talents:

Want a man who is fluent in Italian? He’s got you covered. He can drive a stick. He can understand complex physics.

Oh yeah, and he can time travel. There’s that.
Special Attributes:

Now here’s where it gets interesting, ladies. He generates the most insane chemistry with Emerson that they blow out light bulbs. Literally. He can give a full-body buzz simply by holding hands. Let us imagine the possibilities of that for a second….

Finally, to top it all off: He READS! You know you love a literate man, and Michael’s got a bookshelf full of Byron, Vonnegut, Orson Scott Card and Kerouac. If you think reading is sexy, vote for Michael.

What makes Michael better than Tod?

Now, I'm only on the second book of the Soul Screamers series, but I can safetly say that there is no competition between Michael and Tod. 

My fellow advocate says that it takes a few books for Tod to grow on you. I hope this is the case, because right now I don't see his appeal as a crush-worthy candidate. Sure, he'd probably make a cool friend, but this isn't the "Summer Friend Tournament."

For one thing, he's dead. How much chemistry can you have with a dead guy? He never eats (so dinner dates are out), sleeps (forget about pillow talk), or ages (would you want to be with a 17 year old boy forever?). What's more, even his own brother doesn't seem to like him very much, and says that Tod never does anything unless it's for personal gain. 

Michael, on the other hand, doesn't have to grow on you. He is immediately appealing, and only gets better from there. And, it's always pleasant to know that you don't have to worry about dying around him.  

Anything else you'd like to add?

I’ll just leave you with this passage:

He pulled me closer, trailing his mouth along the line of my jaw and down my neck. I held on to his jacket more tightly, pulling him even closer.

“I’m ready to get out of here,” he murmured in my ear. “Get you someplace I can kiss you properly.”

“This isn’t properly?” I was shaking again. What was it about this boy that made me shake? “If not, can I handle properly?”

“I’ll do my best to make sure you can.” He kissed his way across my cheekbone to my lips, his hands sliding under my jacket, his fingers burning against the cotton of my T-shirt. I couldn’t help thinking about how his hands would feel on my bare skin. “Or that you can’t handle it. Whatever you want.”

VOTING IS NOW CLOSED!

The Faerie Ring by Kiki Hamilton

The Faerie Ring by Kiki Hamilton
Release date: September 27th, 2011
Received from an ARC Tour from I READ BANNED BOOKS
Reviewed by AmyG

Summary from www.goodreads.com

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

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

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

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

The Faerie ring took me to a place that I hadn't expected!  It took me to the great setting of historical London, England.  It honestly had a classic feel, but with a taste of the supernatural that we all love today.  If you have ever read Perilous Gard or Sherwood Ring by Elizabeth Pope, I would say that The Faerie Ring has that same feel.  I loved this book because of that fact.  Its a refreshing change from the everyday angsty, teenage paranormal romance.  It had everything to recommend itself to young adults and adults alike.

The story revolves around Tiki who is an orphan on the streets of London.  She's an Oliver Twist type character, who has fallen in with a bunch of pickpockets.  Except in this situation, they have grown to care for each other and have become a family.  The characters are lovable and funny and keep the plot moving.  Unbeknownst to Tiki, she ends up stealing a ring, that turns the world upside down.  She steals a faerie ring that symbolizes the truce between the fey and the human world.  Now, both the crown and the fey are in search of Tiki.  There is no place where she can go that is safe!  Through this all, Tiki has a very strange but beautiful birthmark on her wrist that holds secrets of its own!

Now, for what you have all the been waiting for!  The swoon-worthy, Rieker.  Yes, there is a love story.    A very sweet one that will have you dreaming about Mr. Darcy and Elizabeth all over again! Who can resist a man with a British accent that bows to you and kisses your hand!  Not this girl right here!  Plus, it all happens with the backdrop of historical London.  Reiker plus London equals a dream made in Victorian Heaven!!!

This book is the best of so many worlds!  It is a story that you can feel safe letting your middle grader read, but it also has all that appeals to the adults that are so drawn to YA literature today.  We need more books like this in the young adult genre!

YA Crush Tourney Hale vs Zachary (Match #18) goes to Zachary!

In a close, heated race, the winner is...

ZACHARY!

Welcome to the 3rd round of the YA Summer Crushin' Tournament.  We are now down to The Excellent Eight.  In this round we will be moving to 1 match a day with matches being on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays.  Polls will be open for 24 hours (8am to 8am) central time.  

We've tried as much as possible to keep everything spoiler free, but to really show the best qualities of a character sometimes spoilers are necessary, so BEWARE!!!  Also, feel free to write comments in the comments section about either character, but we will not tolerate rudeness.  The moment it crosses over from logical argument to rudeness, your comment will be deleted and your vote cancelled.  

W. W. Hale V (Seed 17)

W.W. Hale V is from The Heist Society series by Ally Carter.  You can find out more about Ally Carter and her books by clicking her name on the side reel of our blog.  Hale is represented by Deanne D, a Children's Librarian in NM. You can follow her on twitter @librarychickD.

Personality:

W.W. Hale V (known just as “Hale”) from Heist Society and Uncommon Criminals by Ally Carter is best friend to and possible, one-day, hopefully boyfriend to Katarina “Kat” Bishop. He is a lot of things but most of all he’s protective; protective of Kat, the family, their chosen profession, and even his first name, which he’ll never share. He’s smart, sarcastic, quick- thinking, loyal and an excellent thief.

Looks:

Ally Carter is purposefully vague on the description of Hale; I think to allow each reader to imagine their own version of Hale. We know he has light brown hair, golden skin (most likely from spending time in exotic locales) and is tall with broad shoulders and is the hottest guy that Kat has ever laid eyes on. He’s also confident which makes him even hotter! Most girls instantly fall into love (lust?) with him but he only has eyes for Kat.

Talents:

He’s a thief! And a darn good one at that! He’s also charming which helps with the thievery. He’s a good con-man and charming so he’s able to talk himself in and out of most situations. He’s smart and open-minded which helps him see solutions to get Kat out of trouble which she always seems to find or always finds her.

Special Attributes:

He’s rich, he has absentee parents so he’s free to travel the world using his family’s resources (private jets, villas) without anyone questioning him, and he’s got a trusting, faithful butler/valet to take care of him. He wears Superman pajama pants! How can you not love a guy who wears Superman pajama pants to bed, especially when he’s sleeping in a room with stolen masterpieces by Monet or Vermeer?

What makes Hale better than Zachary?

We all know that an accent is incredibly sexy and a guy that can wear a kilt? Nice!  But that's really all that Zachary has over our wonderful Hale!  Hale has taken to a life of crime in order to be with the girl he loves!  He follows her around the world and goes along with all of her crazy plans (with a minimum of grumbling).  Sure, he doesn't scare away ghosts but really how many of us have ghosts hanging around anyway?  But if you like that painting hanging in the museum downtown... Hale's your man!  And if you need to be expelled from a posh boarding school in an inventive way... Hale, once again, is your guy!  So just this one time I'll say: REAL MEN WEAR PANTS! 

Vote for Hale!!!

Zachary Moore (Seed 25)

Zachary is a character in Shade and Shift by Jeri-Smith Ready. You can learn more about the books by reading our review here. He is represented by Amy & Jen at www.fictitiousdelicious.com(Facebook: Fictitious Delicious Twitter: @FictishDelish)

Personality:

In a city in Maryland they call Baltimore,

Is a hot Scottish boy named Zachary Moore.

He says funny words like ‘bugger!’ and ‘aye’

And has moments so sweet that it makes us cry.

He’s bold, strong, and smart, a science geek,

Writes shoddy love poems, has a competitive streak.

He’s real good at soccer, which makes him quite fit.

He’ll call you ‘bonnie’ when you’re feeling like sh… (bugger, can’t say that) …crap.

Looks:

A once ‘doughy’ lad, with eyes of green,

Has hair of dark brown that he keeps nicely clean.

He’s got giant hands, and you know what they say…

And those dimples of his? You can’t look away!

Talents:

But of all his talents we surely can’t miss

Is the way this Scotsman knows how to kiss.

Now take it to the bridge!

Would he, could he, in a box?

Yes, and it’ll rock your socks!

Would he, could he, in a river?

Yes, and it’ll make you quiver!

He will kiss you here and there,

Why, he will kiss you everywhere!

Special Attributes:

For attributes, his accent is first on the list.

Watch him roll those R’s… yeah, you get the gist.

His mere presence will ward off those pesky ghosts

Which comes in handy when they bother you most.

And let’s not forget to mention the kilt,

Which fits on that body, so nicely built.

What makes Zach better than Hale?

When compared to our Zach, Hale’s far in the dust.
We’ll tell you why Zach is the one you should trust.
Hale’s got THREE arms and gives awkward hugs,
He tucks in his shirt and his hair is all plugs!
Also, we feel we’d be doing a disservice
By not telling you he passes gas when he’s nervous.
NO! JUST KIDDING! But what else could we do?
Zach is our love, but Hale is great, too!
But voting Zach Moore for worthiest crush
Will earn you a teaser that might make you blush!

Anything else you’d like to add?

Remember that Zachary is lastly seeded,

So your vote for him surely is needed!

Jeri Smith-Ready has promised a teaser

If Zachary wins! So don’t vote at leisure!

Vote NOW for TEAM KILT for best crush fictitious,

(And then see our blog, Fictitious Delicious!)

Thanks to you bonnie lasses at YA Sisterhood!!!

*VOTING IS NOW CLOSED*


THANK YOU! CHECK THE CRUSH TOURNAMENT TAB AT THE TOP FOR MORE INFO ABOUT FUTURE MATCHES!

The Mephisto Covenant by Trinity Faegen

The Mephisto Covenant: The Redemption of Ajax by Trinity Faegen


Published by: Egmont USA

Received from: Netgalley


Release date: September 27, 2011

For more info: http://www.trinityfaegen.com/

Reviewed by: Sis-in-law Sarah


(Summary from goodreads.com)

Sasha is desperate to find out who murdered her father. When getting the answer means pledging her soul to Eryx, she unlocks a secret that puts her in grave danger—Sasha is Anabo, a daughter of Eve, and Eryx’s biggest threat. 

A son of Hell, immortal, and bound to Earth forever, Jax looks for redemption in the Mephisto Covenant—God’s promise he will find peace in the love of an Anabo. After a thousand years, he’s finally found the girl he’s been searching for: Sasha. 

With the threat of Eryx looming, Jax has to keep Sasha safe and win her over. But can he? Will Sasha love him and give up her mortal life?

There were so many things I loved about this book. Faegen is a terrific writer who knows how to draw you in right from the start. I'm talking super duper action from the very first chapter. It doesn't take long at all to be drawn into this story! She creates an intricate world based on Milton's Paradise Lost. The battle between God and Lucifer is a little altered and you find yourself actually on Lucifer's side fighting against a fictional character more evil than the devil. This was my favorite part of the book…I love stories that are based on legends or other stories with which I'm familiar. There is a perfect balance of tons of action and a steamy love story….this book definitely has something in it for everyone. And also, may I mention the dark, daring, angsty, and hell-bound boy that can't stay away from you? That's a definite plus…you know, if you're into that kind of thing. I found myself addicted to Jax…seriously could not get enough of that boy.

However, I did have a few qualms about this book. One, it was seriously a lot of information to take in in such a short time! I felt like she threw this whole new world at me way to fast for my brain to keep up. I'm a detailed reader…I like to read every word, so, if you're a speed reader, you might really have a hard time grasping the world she creates. Also, if you're a Christian, you might have a hard time with the total concept of this book. It could be considered quite offensive if you have strong beliefs about God. And lastly, ummmmm…yeah, I really felt like the content of this book was a little more adult level than young adult level. I don't really consider myself to be a prude, but I found myself offended more than once. So, if you read this book, or you're a parent monitoring your teen's reading list, just a forewarning that this book contains a lot of language and sexual content.



I have to say though, the ending redeemed the things I didn't like about this book. It had me jumping off my couch, yelling at my husband, "That was a GREAT ending!" And I'm of the belief that great endings make great books. 

YA Crush Tournament: St. Clair vs. Zachary goes to Zachary!

And the winner is... 


ZACHARY!


Some general rules before we begin:

There may be some spoilers in the following post. We've tried to keep it fairly general, but overall, this Tourney will not be spoiler-free. So beware. 

Secondly, You are welcome to write your own comments about either character in the comments section, but we will not tolerate rudeness. The minute it crosses over from logical argument into character bashing, your comments will be deleted and your vote canceled.

And now it's time for the Englishman vs. the Scotsman....

St. Clair (Seed 9)

St. Clair is represented today by Melissa, follow her on twitter @3fixedhearts. Etienne St. Clair is a character from Anna and the French Kiss by Stephanie Perkins. It's a fabulous read, which we unfortunately haven't written a review of yet, but you can learn more here.

Personality

Étienne St. Clair...there is so much charm in him it is difficult to know where to start. He is adored by everyone because of his magnetic personality. MAGNETISM: the phenomenon of physical attraction; the strong attractiveness of something. That is St. Clair. He is smart, witty and 'ridiculously attractive'. But it is his charm - he is so charming to everyone, drawing all types of individuals to him - that makes him stand out. Though he sometimes hides it, he has incredible depth in his emotions. St. Clair feels things on a deeper level than he lets on. Deeper than most boys. He knows just what to say, how to say it and when to say it to make anyone feel better. He is also extremely intelligent. Oh, and he is romantic and flirtatious without even trying. He will draw you in with his charm. He will flirt with you - forcing you to surrender. Yes, he does have his moments when he seems to disappear but he never runs away - like many boys do. And he always defends his girl (his 'true' girl). He will defend you, as his love, forever. He will move mountains for you - he will move to another country for you. While witty and funny and a wonderful friend he may be, there is no escaping his charm and magnetic personality. He will draw you in and turn you in to one of 'them' - one of those girls who swoon.

Looks

First: The hair. The "I-pretend-I-don't-care-but-I-really-do' hair. Breathtaking, dark, thick 'you wanna run your fingers through it when you are making out with him' hair. You wanna run your fingers through it even when you are not making out with him. Hell, you want to run your toes through this perfect head of hair - hair that looks so beautiful and smells so clean and boyish. Then the eyes: big, brown beautiful eyes. Eyes that look deeply into you, reading your every thought. Described as weapons against the female race. Perfectly shaped lips- very useful. White teeth, with a twinge of imperfection making him real. Stylish - dresses cute! Wears cute pajama pants when he has a sleep-over with you. The way he carries himself...confidence and charm ooze. Though he is not tall, he carries himself tall - and having him your size, ladies, has tremendous advantages (wink). The whole entire St. Clair package deal: ridiculously attractive, charismatic look that, like his personality, draws you in. You can't help but stare at him.

Talents

Bilingual. OH. MY. GOD. What is hotter than hearing a boy speak with an English accent? What? Oh, Étienne saying sweet nothings in your ear in FRENCH. Helloooo! Girls. Étienne St. Clair - first, his French name is hot and fun to say. He will speak to you in his sexy, English accent - which every girl knows is a deal-maker. Then, he will bust out (BRADLEY COOPER STYLE) in perfect French, sealing the deal. He draws - an artist. But sort of an undercover one, one that does not boast. He is rather shy about his talent. Another talent? Knowing amazing facts, especially history. He is definitely the one you want on your team for trivia games. Did I mention he speaks with an English accent and can talk to you in French, while kissing your neck? TALENT.

Special Attributes

Back to the charm and magnetism. Rarely does a boy posess such traits as does St. Clair. Rarely does a boy have the ability to draw you in with such power that you are forced to surrender. You actually give up and fall into the crush. It is unavoidable with St. Clair. He is strong and yet vulnerable at the same time - making him so attractive to us girls. He is a history expert and actually enjoys reading everything he can about history. Like I said, pick him for your trivia team. He will back you when you need it. He will stand by you. His wit and friendly sarcasm will keep you laughing - especially when you need it most. It is really his magnetic personality and good looks that make him special.

What makes St. Clair better than Zach?

Our Scottish friend is hot, I’m not going to lie;

But St. Clair has more swagger, making ALL, not just one, the school girls sigh.

And kilts, who cares – Mr. St. Clair also wears cute stuff;

Is comparing the clothes really enough?

Etienne St. Clair has that broody enigmatic quality like Zach;

He, too, has the lovely accent; he, too, has his girl’s back.

But Etienne St. Clair is charismatic and charming beyond belief;

To have a boy like him love you makes your life complete.

He has ‘to die for’ hair and big beautiful eyes;

He is handsome and funny and definitely wise.

And St. Clair’s hands are large, too, and we know what they say;

But he isn’t an ever-patient, too understanding puppy dog,

Like a real boy, he makes his own way;

With a crush-worthy, swoon-worthy, falling-in-love-worthy boy like St. Clair;

Measuring him against another boy, there is no way to compare.

Although If I must throw out one last strife-

Ladies, your Zach boy is only here for a year, Mr. St. Clair is yours for life.

Anything else you’d like to add?

Did I mention he speaks with an English accent and can bust out hot sexy French stuff while kissing you? Oh my.

Zachary Moore (Seed 25)

Zachary is a character in Shade and Shift by Jeri-Smith Ready. You can learn more about the books by reading our review here. He is represented by Amy & Jen at www.fictitiousdelicious.com(Facebook: Fictitious Delicious Twitter: @FictishDelish)

Personality

In a city in Maryland they call Baltimore,

Is a hot Scottish boy named Zachary Moore.

He says funny words like ‘bugger!’ and ‘aye’

And has moments so sweet that it makes us cry.

He’s bold, strong, and smart, a science geek,

Writes shoddy love poems, has a competitive streak.

He’s real good at soccer, which makes him quite fit.

He’ll call you ‘bonnie’ when you’re feeling like sh… (bugger, can’t say that) …crap.

Looks

A once ‘doughy’ lad, with eyes of green,

Has hair of dark brown that he keeps nicely clean.

He’s got giant hands, and you know what they say…

And those dimples of his? You can’t look away!

Talents

But of all his talents we surely can’t miss

Is the way this Scotsman knows how to kiss.

Now take it to the bridge!

Would he, could he, in a box?

Yes, and it’ll rock your socks!

Would he, could he, in a river?

Yes, and it’ll make you quiver!

He will kiss you here and there,

Why, he will kiss you everywhere!

Special Attributes

For attributes, his accent is first on the list.

Watch him roll those R’s… yeah, you get the gist.

His mere presence will ward off those pesky ghosts

Which comes in handy when they bother you most.

And let’s not forget to mention the kilt,

Which fits on that body, so nicely built.

What makes Zach better than St. Clair?

Tis true, St. Clair is from a FAB book

But when it comes to boyfriends? Let’s take a look:

St. Clair has Anna, and their story is great

But without Anna, well, there is no debate.

It took St. Clair a while to decide

If, in Anna, his heart did reside.

Zach’s own story is switched around

He waited till Aura’s affections came 'round.

Zach is a better crush by far!

100% Scot + Kilt  = RAWR!

Anything else you’d like to add?

Remember that Zachary is lastly seeded,

So your vote for him surely is needed!

Jeri Smith-Ready has promised a teaser

If Zachary wins! So don’t vote at leisure!

Vote NOW for TEAM KILT for best crush fictitious,

(And then see our blog, Fictitious Delicious!)

Thanks to you bonnie lasses at YA Sisterhood!!

*Voting is now closed*

Check the Crush Tournament Tab at the top for information about future matches.