Celebrating Debutantes 2017: The Hundred Lies of Lizzie Lovett by Chelsea Sedoti

Hi guys! I'm featuring another playlist on Fragments of Life for #CelebratingDebutantes2017. Chelsea will share about her playlist for The Hundred Lies of Lizzie Lovett, which was released January of this year! Stick around for a special giveaway at the end!

Hawthorn wasn't trying to insert herself into a missing person's investigation. Or maybe she was. But that's only because Lizzie Lovett's disappearance is the one fascinating mystery their sleepy town has ever had. Bad things don't happen to popular girls like Lizzie Lovett, and Hawthorn is convinced she'll turn up at any moment-which means the time for speculation is now.

So Hawthorn comes up with her own theory for Lizzie's disappearance. A theory way too absurd to take seriously...at first. The more Hawthorn talks, the more she believes. And what better way to collect evidence than to immerse herself in Lizzie's life? Like getting a job at the diner where Lizzie worked and hanging out with Lizzie's boyfriend. After all, it's not as if he killed her-or did he?

Told with a unique voice that is both hilarious and heart-wrenching, Hawthorn's quest for proof may uncover the greatest truth is within herself.

1. Le Pastie de la Bourgeoisie by Belle & Sebastian



The main character of the HUNDRED LIES OF LIZZIE LOVETT is Hawthorn Creely, a book nerd who sees herself as an awkward social outcast. This being the case, Le Pastie de la Bourgeoisie could be her theme song.

2. Bad Moon Rising by Creedence Clearwater Revival



The book begins with popular, beautiful Lizzie Lovett disappearing—during a full moon. Soon enough, Hawthorn finds herself oddly obsessed with the missing persons case. Not only does Bad Moon Rising make me think of the night Lizzie disappears, it’s also an omen for the trouble Hawthorn is about to find herself in.

3. Psycho Killer by Talking Heads


After Lizzie goes missing, rumors begin to circulate that she was murdered by her boyfriend, Enzo. When Hawthorn meets and befriends Enzo, people are aghast—after all, he’s most likely a serial killer.

4. Love Will Tear Us Apart by Joy Division


Hawthorn never believes Enzo is a killer, though. She’s convinced he’s nothing but a sad guy who misses his girlfriend—the kind of person who makes art while listening to angsty music (like Love Will Tear Us Apart, which is playing at his apartment one evening) not the kind of person who murders women in the woods.

5. You're Nobody til Somebody Loves You by Dean Martin


Hawthorn remarks at one point that old music sounds haunted to her. This song would fit the bill. Added bonus: the fictional town where THE HUNDRED LIES OF LIZZIE LOVETT takes place is based on the real life hometown of Dean Martin, Steubenville, Ohio.

6. I'd Love to Change the World by Ten Years After


Though Hawthorn is obsessed with Lizzie Lovett’s disappearance, there are other things concerning her. Such as the hippie caravan that’s taken up residence in her backyard. The leader of the caravan, Sundog, spent his youth listening to quintessential hippie songs like I'd Love to Change the World. (Maybe not much has changed—Hawthorn would love to change the world too.)

7. People are Strange by The Doors


From hippies to potential killers, Hawthorn meets a lot of strange people on her journey to solve Lizzie’s disappearance. Though, in all honesty, Hawthorn might just be the strangest of them all.

8. Personality Crisis by New York Dolls


Throughout THE HUNDRED LIES OF LIZZIE LOVETT, Hawthorn grapples with who she is and what her path in life should be. Eventually, she begins to think she’s not the only one who’s had these thoughts. Lizzie, the beautiful girl who looks so perfect from the outside, might be battling demons of her own. Hawthorn wonders if perhaps no one is as perfect as they seem, if maybe we all struggle in one way or another.

9. That’s How People Grow Up by Morrissey


Growing up sometimes means facing harsh truths about yourself and the world around you. As she gets deeper and deeper into the mystery surrounding Lizzie’s disappearance, Hawthorn discovers more about herself and the people around her—and not all of it is easy to accept.

10. Don't Let Me Be Misunderstood by The Animals


As the song goes, Hawthorn’s intentions are good. But even the best intentions can get misconstrued, or end up hurting people. Though her interest in Lizzie’s disappearance begins innocently enough, as Hawthorn gets deeper and deeper involved, her actions have unintended consequences. Though Hawthorn has always felt like an outsider, she’s about to be more misunderstood than ever before.


Thank you, Chelsea!

About the Author:

Chelsea Sedoti fell in love with writing at a young age after discovering that making up stories was more fun than doing her school work (her teachers didn’t always appreciate this.) In an effort to avoid getting a “real” job, Chelsea explored careers as a balloon twister, filmmaker, and paranormal investigator. Eventually she realized that her true passion is writing about flawed teenagers who are also afraid of growing up. When she’s not at the computer, Chelsea spends her time exploring abandoned buildings, eating junk food at roadside diners, and trying to befriend every animal in the world. She lives in Las Vegas, Nevada where she avoids casinos, but loves roaming the Mojave Desert.

Find Chelsea: Website | Twitter | Goodreads

Book Description:

398 pages
Published January 3rd 2017 by Sourcebooks

A teenage misfit named Hawthorn Creely inserts herself in the investigation of missing person Lizzie Lovett, who disappeared mysteriously while camping with her boyfriend. Hawthorn doesn't mean to interfere, but she has a pretty crazy theory about what happened to Lizzie. In order to prove it, she decides to immerse herself in Lizzie's life. That includes taking her job... and her boyfriend. It's a huge risk — but it's just what Hawthorn needs to find her own place in the world.

Giveaway

Thanks to Chelsea for sponsoring this giveaway!
What's up for grabs: Signed copy of The Hundred Lies of Lizzie Lovett
Scope: US + CA

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Celebrating Debutantes 2017: The Big F by Maggie Ann Martin (Playlist + Giveaway)

Hello, guys! For #CelebratingDebutantes2017 today, we are featuring a playlist made and explained by Maggie Ann Martin for her debut, The Big F! She will take over the blog in a little while.
I hope you guys stick around for the music, the background and the international giveaway at the end!


The Music Behind THE BIG F

Music, for me, is my biggest source of inspiration while I’m writing. I like to find a song that fits a certain scene, and listen to it on repeat until I’m finished writing that scene. Songs set the tone for me while I’m drafting and editing, and I’m always on the hunt for my next inspirational song.
My playlist for THE BIG F (out August 29!) is one that I’ve had for many years. I’ve added to it since my first draft I wrote in 2012 to editing it in 2016. Though it’s grown over the years, there are some key songs that have pushed me through the writing process for this book.

SONG HIGHLIGHTS:

The Deep End by Hannah Georgas I call this the song that started it all. I found this song through the MTV show Awkward and slowly became obsessed. The lyrics “who’s gonna hold your breath when you’re diving off the deep end?” really resonated with me and remind me of Danielle, who is essentially diving off the deep end into this uncharted territory, and she has to do it on her own.

Clean by The Japanese House I’m pretty sure I completely edited THE BIG F to the tune of this song. It’s mellow, calming, but has an emotional edge that guided me through some of the more serious parts of the book.

The Way to the Future by Katie Herzig If THE BIG F had a theme song, I’m pretty sure this song would be it. Danielle is so unsure about her future at the beginning of the book, and by the end, she’s charging head first at a future that she believes in. This song completely sums that up.

Even if It Kills Me by Motion City Soundtrack One of my all-time favorite songs by one of my all-time favorite bands. I think this song could apply to both Danielle and Porter, especially the line “For the first time in a long time, I can say that I’m gonna try, to be better and overcome each moment in my own way.” They are each trying to live a better, happier life and letting the people around them lift them up, rather than pull them down. Plus, I had to sneak a little Motion City Soundtrack on here.

All of the other songs on this playlist were either listened to on repeat when I was writing a particular scene, or I felt like applied to any one of the characters in THE BIG F. Let me know in the comments if you can guess which other songs might correspond with a certain scene or character!

Thank you, Maggie!

About the Author:

Maggie Ann Martin hails from Iowa City, Iowa but moonlights as a New Yorker. She has a shiny new BA in English and Journalism from the University of Iowa, the most welcoming literary community in the world. When she is not writing, you can find her binge watching TV shows or passionately fangirling over fictional characters on the Internet. The Big F is her debut novel.

Find Maggie: Website | Twitter | Facebook | Goodreads

Book Description:

THE BIG F
Paperback, 304 pages
Published August 29 2017 by Swoon Reads
Danielle effed up. Big time.

Danielle's plans for the future were pretty easy to figure out... until she failed senior English and her single college application was denied. Suddenly she's in hot water with very few options, because honestly who applies to a safety school when their mom is a semi-famous "college psychic"?!

Determined to get her life back on track, Danielle enrolls in her hometown community college with a plan: pass her English class and get back into Ohio State and her mother's good graces. Romance isn't on her radar... until she reconnects with her childhood crush and golden-boy-next-door, Luke.

Between family drama, first love and finding her own way, Danielle can't help but feel a little overwhelmed. Thankfully she has her friendship with the snarky and frustratingly attractive Porter, her coworker at the campus bookstore, to push her to experience new things and help keep her afloat.

One thing's for sure: This time, failure's not an option.

Giveaway

Thanks to Maggie for sponsoring this giveaway!
What's up for grabs: Pre-order of The Big F from the Book Depository! BookDepo needs to ship to your country.
Scope: International

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Celebrating Debutantes 2017: Starfish by Akemi Dawn Bowman (Author Interview + Giveaway)

Hello guys! Today, I'm featuring a YA contemporary starring a half-Japanese, half-American heroine! It's an engrossing read that tackles various themes. Readers who like character growth and family dynamics would enjoy this. I'm interviewing Akemi Dawn, whose name is so gorgeous, all about her writing and Starfish. Stick around for a giveaway at the end!

How does your background in the social sciences and in the US Navy contribute to your writing?
I don’t feel like they play a role in the stories I write, but I do think they’ve had an effect on my work ethic. I’m really good with deadlines—they keep me focused and I tend to work faster when I’m on a time-limit. There was also a saying in the military that went, “Hurry up and wait.” And patience is one of the most important things you can learn in the publishing industry!

How would you best describe your writing style?
Lately everything I write seems to be moody and emotional, and I don’t know why that is. A few years ago, I wanted to write stories that entertained people. Now I have a bizarre need to make everyone cry!

How is your writing process? Could you share it with us?
I’ve got a three-year-old and a one-year-old, and my husband works off-shore. When he’s away, I usually only get to write in the evenings after the kids are in bed. But when he’s home, I write every free moment I can. So it’s less of a process, and more of a desperate attempt to get all the words down immediately. I also start with very minimal notes—I write down character names, and a rough idea of where the story is headed. And then I get to know my characters as I write, and let their personalities shape the scenes.

What or who inspired you to write Starfish?
My inspiration behind Starfish was basically my desire to write the book I needed most as a teen.

How did you craft Kiko's voice? What are the defining points and limitations in establishing her voice?
Kiko is more like me than any other character I’ve ever written, and probably ever will write. So a lot of her voice was remembering how I would’ve reacted at seventeen, and what I was feeling. But she’s also so much stronger than I was too. She spends so much of the book trying to navigate these feelings of being “not good enough,” while also having big hopes and dreams and wanting to heal. She goes through such a major journey, so as much as I could establish her voice at the beginning, I also had to let her grow.

Which was the hardest scene to write, if any?
The scene where Kiko is in the car on her way to California. I find travelling scenes so difficult to write. Maybe because I hate travelling in real life! I find them slow, and kind of a necessary evil. If I could, I’d just teleport all my characters from one place to the next. The driving could be all over in a sentence!

What is your favorite line from the book?
Almost every chapter ends in a line that describes what Kiko is drawing or painting. And I love so many of these, that it’s almost impossible for me to choose. But the one I think reflects the book the most reads, “I draw a very small fish swimming in the ocean and realizing it’s filled with planets and stars.” This is also in the same chapter where the reader will learn what a “starfish” is, so I think it’s really fitting for the book (and cover!).

If you could write something out of the YA contemporary genre, what genre would it be and what would it be about?
I’m actually working on a YA fantasy right now! But I don’t like to talk about projects this early in the drafting stage. I’m always a bit worried that the more I say, the more likely I am to feel burned out on a story. But I’m having a lot of fun with it, and will hopefully get to talk about it more in the future!

What's next for Akemi?
Book 2 was officially announced last week. It’s called SUMMER BIRD BLUE, and will be out in Fall 2018 with Simon Pulse. It’s about a teen songwriter who loses her sister in a tragic accident and is sent to live with her aunt in Hawaii while her mom deals with her own grief. It’s about loss, and family, and learning how to say goodbye to someone who is already gone. And one of the best parts is that I get to work with my incredible editor, Jen, for a second time. I’m thrilled, and can’t wait to share more soon!

Thank you, Akemi!

Photo by Rory Lewis Photography

About the Author:

Akemi Dawn Bowman is the author of Starfish. She’s a proud Ravenclaw and Star Wars enthusiast, who served in the US Navy for five years and has a BA in social sciences from UNLV. Originally from Las Vegas, she currently lives in England with her husband, two children, and their Pekingese mix. Starfish will be published later this year (9/26/17, Simon Pulse/Simon & Schuster), with a second YA contemporary to follow in Fall 2018. She is represented by Penny Moore of Empire Literary.

Find Akemi: Website | Twitter | Facebook | Goodreads | Instagram

Book Description:

Hardcover, 320 pages
Expected publication: September 26th 2017 by Simon Pulse

Kiko Himura has always had a hard time saying exactly what she’s thinking. With a mother who makes her feel unremarkable and a half-Japanese heritage she doesn’t quite understand, Kiko prefers to keep her head down, certain that once she makes it into her dream art school, Prism, her real life will begin.

But then Kiko doesn’t get into Prism, at the same time her abusive uncle moves back in with her family. So when she receives an invitation from her childhood friend to leave her small town and tour art schools on the west coast, Kiko jumps at the opportunity in spite of the anxieties and fears that attempt to hold her back. And now that she is finally free to be her own person outside the constricting walls of her home life, Kiko learns life-changing truths about herself, her past, and how to be brave.

From debut author Akemi Dawn Bowman comes a luminous, heartbreaking story of identity, family, and the beauty that emerges when we embrace our true selves.

Giveaway

Thanks to Akemi for sponsoring this giveaway!
What's up for grabs: Pre-order of Starfish
Scope: International

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Celebrating Debutantes 2017: Dear Martin by Nic Stone (Playlist + Giveaway)

Hi guys! Sorry for the silence - I've been swallowed up by work - but I'm now back full force! Today I'm featuring one of the most anticipated debuts for 2017 - Dear Martin by Nic Stone! Nic is going to share with us her playlist for her debut. Stick around for the music and the giveaway!


For seventeen year old Justyce McAllister—and many of the real life African American young men (and ladies) like him—life isn’t always easy. This playlist includes everything from songs that would get him and his best friend Manny feeling good about themselves (see: Classic Man and The Man) to heavier songs that highlight the need for change (Everything Must Change; Fight the Power) to songs that convey hope for a better future (A Change is Gonna Come; Glory) to even a couple of unexpected tracks you’d likely hear on one of Manny’s random playlists (Somethin Bad; A World Alone). Taken together, they represent the message of DEAR MARTIN to a tee: life and people are complex, and it’s perfectly fine to feel, but at the end of the day, it’s up to us to offer the world our very best.


Thank you, Nic!

About the Author:

Nic Stone was born and raised in a suburb of Atlanta, GA, and the only thing she loves more than an adventure is a good story about one. After graduating from Spelman College, she worked extensively in teen mentoring and lived in Israel for a few years before returning to the US to write full-time. Growing up with a wide range of cultures, religions, and backgrounds, Stone strives to bring these diverse voices and stories to her work.

Stone lives in Atlanta with her husband and two sons. You can find her on Twitter and Instagram at @getnicced or on her website nicstone.info.

Find Nic: Website | Twitter | Instagram| Goodreads

Book Description:

Hardcover, 224 pages
Expected publication: October 17th 2017 by Crown Books for Young Readers

Justyce McAllister is top of his class, captain of the debate team, and set for the Ivy League next year—but none of that matters to the police officer who just put him in handcuffs. He is eventually released without charges (or an apology), but the incident has Justyce spooked. Despite leaving his rough neighborhood, he can’t seem to escape the scorn of his former peers or the attitude of his prep school classmates. The only exception: Sarah Jane, Justyce’s gorgeous—and white—debate partner he wishes he didn’t have a thing for.

Struggling to cope with it all, Justyce starts a journal to Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. But do Dr. King’s teachings hold up in the modern world? Justyce isn’t so sure.

Then comes the day Justyce goes driving with his best friend, Manny, windows rolled down, music turned up. Way up. Much to the fury of the white off-duty cop beside them. Words fly. Shots are fired. And Justyce and Manny get caught in the crosshairs. In the media fallout, it’s Justyce who is under attack. The truth of what happened that night—some would kill to know. Justyce is dying to forget.

Giveaway

Thanks to Nic for sponsoring this giveaway!
What's up for grabs: Signed Personalized Hardcover and bookmark
Scope: US only

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Celebrating Debutantes 2017: Noah Can't Even by Simon James Green (Character Interview + Giveaway)

Hi guys! We're finally entering the second month of #CelebratingDebutantes2017! Thanks to everyone who participated and helped us in coming up with these features, as well as to our readers who continue participating and supporting the event.

Today, I'm have a special treat for you guys. Scholastic is sponsoring the giveaway for our featured novel: Noah Can't Even by Simon James Green.
It's going to be open internationally! So stick around for that.

In the meantime, Noah is on the hot seat for an interview. Let's start with that, shall we?

Hello, Noah! Introduce yourself, please.
Noah Grimes. I am nearly 16, and am the star of so-called ‘novel’ Noah Can’t Even. It’s a monumentally terrible piece of writing, full of lies about my life, and I wouldn’t recommend you bother reading it. I am a boy, and live in a small town called Little Fobbing, situated in the county of Lincolnshire, England. My favourite things are Agatha Christie novels, Murder She Wrote and Skittles. Not bragging, but I’m probably going to be made a Prefect next year.

If you could change something about your story or your story world, what would it be? Why?
Well, for a start, I would be the wealthy son of an aristocrat because it is perfectly obvious to me, and most people who meet me, that I must have been accidentally swapped at birth, and should in fact be royalty or something. I have to suffer the daily indignity of my mother having no money and refusing to cook restaurant-quality food – but if I was rich, there would be staff to do this. Also, I would have more muscles and not be so skinny. Finally, I would never have to take part in a PE lesson ever again, thus removing a major source of humiliation for me.

If you could invite the author of your story, Simon, what would you two do together?
I am still very angry with Simon for writing this book, so this is unlikely to happen – unless we go for a cliff top walk and I ‘accidentally’ push him over the edge…

Harry or Sophie? Why?
Sophie for advice, Harry for cuddles.

What is your favorite Beyonce song, since your mom is a dedicated fan?
I am actually not a fan of popular music and it is especially hard for me to like Beyoncé when my mother has ruined most of her songs. My gran is a big fan of 80’s music, so sometimes I listen to those with her.

If you could attend Pride Parade, would you go? What would be your outfit and what would you do?
Yes, I always enjoy any sort of parade or carnival – especially if I am taking part. I recently enjoyed huge success and acclaim when I dressed up as a Pikachu for the town’s summer carnival parade. Many people pointed and laughed, so I would probably go to a Pride parade as that and hand out free Skittles as they are both rainbow coloured and my favourite type of confectionary.

What is the hardest problem you have faced in life? How did you deal with it?
It was pretty tough when I was overlooked for Dinner Monitor in Year 8. I was pretty confident they were going to elect me as Dinner Monitor, so it came as a blow when it didn’t happen. To deal with this, I mounted a smear campaign against two of the successful candidates, highlighting the fact I saw them fail to wash their hands properly after going to the bathroom. They were forced to resign and I took my rightful position.

What is your deepest, darkest secret?
I have a copy of Nancy Drew – The Clue of the Dancing Puppet, which belongs to the school library and is overdue by two years. I am too embarrassed to return it and anyway, the fine would be huge. I am devising a way to hack the school library computer system and remove all trace of my ever taking it out. But all this is obviously secret.

If you could read a book now, what would it be and why?
I am very interested in a book called ‘How to Win Friends and Influence People’ by Dale Carnegie. The book promises to increase my popularity, help win people to my way of thinking and increase my influence and prestige. How fabulous! With this book, I feel I will be unstoppable and will definitely be elected Head Boy in the Sixth Form.

Is there something you would like to tell the audience/readers?
I would be delighted if you would follow me on Twitter, where I talk about important things - @noahgrimes12


Thank you, Noah and Simon for making this happen!

About the Author:

Simon is an author and screenwriter and he sometimes does a bit of directing too. He actually did a Law degree at Cambridge University, but decided he loved writing and directing too much to go and be a lawyer. He has worked on lots of West End shows including The Rocky Horror Show, Rent and West Side Story and he has also directed Hollyoaks for Lime Pictures / C4. He writes screenplays with his good friend Sarah Counsell, including Rules of Love, a feature-length musical rom-com for the BBC, which has since sold around the world. Noah Can’t Even was selected for the Society of Children’s Book Writers and Illustrators ‘Undiscovered Voices’ competition in 2016 and it’s his first novel.

Find Simon: Website | Twitter | Facebook | Goodreads | Instagram

Book Description:

Paperback, 365 pages
Published May 4th 2017 by Scholastic

Poor Noah Grimes! His father disappeared years ago, his mother's Beyonce tribute act is an unacceptable embarrassment, and his beloved gran is no longer herself. He only has one friend, Harry, and school is...Well, it's pure HELL. Why can't Noah be normal, like everyone else at school? Maybe if he struck up a romantic relationship with someone - maybe Sophie, who is perfect and lovely - he'd be seen in a different light? But Noah's plans are derailed when Harry kisses him at a party. That's when things go from bad to utter chaos.

Giveaway

Big thanks to Scholastic for sponsoring this giveaway!
What's up for grabs: Finished Copy of Noah Can't Even by Simon James Green!
Scope: International

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Celebrating Debutantes 2017: The Wishing Heart by JC Welker (Playlist + Giveaway)

Hi guys! I'm featuring another playlist for #CelebratingDebutantes2017. At this rate, I would have hundreds of songs to download before the event is over. Stick around for a special giveaway at the end - open internationally!

Jennifer is going to share her playlist for the Wishing Heart, a YA fantasy with LGBT theme. I hope you guys enjoy the music! Jennifer you can take it from here. :)


Music is like a seed, it heavily influences my writing, planting seeds for me to grow a rich, tangled world. It can transport me into the mind of the character and the vision of the scene I'm creating. And in writing The Wishing Heart music created many seeds in reflecting a girl looking for love through stories and magic.

While some songs on the playlist dramatically evoke feelings and hit to the heart of each character, others reflect the world that Rebel becomes immersed in and the dark things crawling within it. You’ll notice the songs fluctuate with the books chapters, starting from the hopeless world Rebel lives in, leading into the magical, the whimsical, and the macabre, and back again until you feel like a storm is building.

If I had to pick one song for the theme of TWH it would be TRUE COLORS by Zedd/Kesha because it hits to the core of both Rebel and Anjeline coming to truly see each other for who they are, and their hearts. At one point the last song on the playlist ‘Hero’ made me cry every time I listened to it, because it’s the song I played continually when I wrote the last few chapters of the book-of Rebel’s character Arc.

And I hope you’ll see why.

Thank you, Jennifer for sharing!

About the Author:

J.C. Welker is an author who's been, among other things, a fashion designer, a filmmaker and a kickboxer (seriously). Her short documentaries, which focused on homeless Iraq veterans and lgbtq+ issues in the military have been featured on CURRENT TV, and her debut novel won first place in the paranormal category of the 2016 YARWA Rosemary Awards. She continues to work towards giving a voice to stories that are needed, while facing magic and monsters along the way.

Find Jennifer: Website | Twitter | Facebook | Instagram

Book Description:

Paperback
Published May 1st 2017 by Entangled Teen

Winner of the 2016 YARWA Rosemary Awards for paranormal fiction that Mia Siegert (JERKBAIT) calls, “An exhilarating read.”

With a book in her bag and a switchblade in her pocket, Rebel's been thieving her way through life while hoping for a cure to fix her ailing heart.

But when the bejeweled vase she just tried to hawk turns out to be a jinni's vessel, Rebel gets lost to her world and dragged within another. Now every magical being in the city wants the vase for himself.

Thrust into a game of cat and mouse in a world she never knew existed, Rebel must use her uncanny skills to find a way to free Anjeline the Wishmaker.

But wishes have consequences. And contracts. Anjeline's freedom could unravel a love like Rebel has never known, or it could come at the cost of Rebel's heart...

Amazon | B&N | iBooks | Kobo | Entangled

Giveaway

Thanks, Jennifer, for sponsoring this giveaway!
What's up for grabs: The Wishing Heart (finished copy) from the Book depository!
Scope: International

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Get your daily dose of YA and MG debut goodness in #CelebratingDebutantes2017! 

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Review: A Court of Thorns and Roses by Sarah J Maas

Book Description:

Hardcover, 416 pages
Published May 5th 2015 by Bloomsbury Children's

A thrilling, seductive new series from New York Times bestselling author Sarah J. Maas, blending Beauty and the Beast with faerie lore.

When nineteen-year-old huntress Feyre kills a wolf in the woods, a beast-like creature arrives to demand retribution for it. Dragged to a treacherous magical land she only knows about from legends, Feyre discovers that her captor is not an animal, but Tamlin—one of the lethal, immortal faeries who once ruled their world.

As she dwells on his estate, her feelings for Tamlin transform from icy hostility into a fiery passion that burns through every lie and warning she's been told about the beautiful, dangerous world of the Fae. But an ancient, wicked shadow grows over the faerie lands, and Feyre must find a way to stop it... or doom Tamlin—and his world—forever.

Perfect for fans of Kristin Cashore and George R. R. Martin, this first book in a sexy and action-packed new series is impossible to put down!

Reviewer's Copy: Hardcover

Source: Purchased 

My Thoughts:

A Court of Thorns and Roses surpassed my expectations. It was as amazing as I thought it would be and more. I was immediately lost within its charm and riveting tale. The fey winked at me and like a willing victim, I went with them.

The story world was all the sounds and sights that I have imagined and more. Prythian was a sprawling land of surprises, magic and danger. The writing was beautiful, captivating and flawless. There was no fault that I could find. It was the first thing that drew me in. The words wrapped around me like a comfortable blanket that I could not let go of, before drifting into a magical dream.

Feyre was an artist, sensitive and observant when it came down to color and texture. However, for the most part of the book, I saw her as a hunter who had the skills to survive. She was fierce and brave, going against all odds to bring food to the table, when no one else would. Living in Prythian was life-changing for Feyre. Her heart held such loneliness and I wanted to see something good happen to her. However, instead of walking into happiness, Feyre walked into a cage of pain and trials. I was constantly at the edge of my seat with the life-threatening situations and suspense that Feyre faced.

Rhysand was the one who caught my attention and held it in his night-kissed hands. He was the High Lord of the Night Court. He was perfection in my eyes. His moon-white skin, inky black hair and violet eyes were bullets against my armor. Throughout the story, I saw the good and bad sides of him. He was magnetic, devastatingly attractive and brilliant. His mind was a beautiful thing to observe and behold - always one step ahead of the game. His charm was like the stars in the sky - constant and forever. He seemed like the bad guy at times, however, behind his actions, I could see kernels of goodness. He was constantly masking his good deeds and intentions underneath smirks and threats. He has taken my heart for himself and I cannot get it back. I have fallen in love with his character right from the beginning, in Calanmai. I am looking forward to knowing him more thoroughly in the next installments.

Tamlin, the 'Beast' of the story, was good and noble. He was the High Lord of the Spring Court. Upon bursting violently through Feyre's front door, he had my eyebrow raised. He was a gentleman in his own right, however he had a layer of temper lingering underneath his skin. He tended to be overprotective and perhaps unwilling to value other's capacity to take control of themselves and be in control of a situation over his loss of control. It made me sad and a bit put off how he dealt with some things in his life.

The minor characters were brilliant and alive as well. Lucien, the Emissary of the Spring Court, was an intriguing character. He had a dark past, a quick mind and charm. It was endearing how he and Feyre slowly began to turn into friends despite their bad beginning. Alis, one of the household helps, was also a joy to read. She had a heart for a human. Her concern and compassion spoke volumes.

The action and suspense made my blood flow a little faster and my heart beat a little louder. It brought me back to the days when I read The Iron Fey series by Julie Kagawa. The twists and turns kept things interesting. I was constantly picking up breadcrumbs left by Maas throughout the pages, following any trail and any pattern that I could find. I was forming and testing theories in my head all throughout the novel. It was fun and stimulating to read something so well-planned and well-written. The ending was a promise of better and exciting things to come. I was satisfied with it, considering that it dealt with my favorite characters.

A Court of Thorns and Roses is heart-pounding and unforgettable with its burst of colors, wonders and twists. Cloaked with magic and layers of secrets, it is relentless in delivering entertainment. I highly recommend this to readers of faeries/fey, readers of fantasy and readers who delight in stories inspired by fairytales. You need this series in your life!

Rating:

5 Cupids = Eternal book love.
I will never, ever, ever forget this book. I highly recommend this!

Celebrating Debutantes 2017: How to Break a Boy by Laurie Devore (Interview + Giveaway)

Hi guys! #CelebratingDebutantes2017 continues with an interview with Laurie Devore about her writing and How to Break a Boy, her debut. It has been a while since I read a good contemporary. I've been on a fantasy roll for months now! Laurie's debut deals with pranks, teen social hierarchy and power. Are you interested? If yes, stick around for the giveaway - a signed Hardcover. Let's start the interview!

What was it like writing a story with a generally unlikeable character? How did it affect your writing?
I think the interesting thing for me is that I never really find the character unlikeable when I’m writing. I’ve always found myself drawn to characters others find difficult, trying to take them apart, see what makes them tick. Once I’m in a character’s head, the process becomes much more of trying to figure out how a specific type of person would react in a situation versus me as an author making any kind of moral judgement on their actions. I find that’s what it takes to build empathy with characters others find unlikeable.

Which part was the hardest to write? Why did you struggle with it?
I found with both How to Break a Boy and my upcoming novel, Winner Take All, that nailing down characters’ parents and family history is so difficult. Especially as teenagers, each character’s family and upbringing affects so much of their lives and sometimes it can be difficult working backwards. Essentially, I have to look at the character I’ve created and understand what kind of familial circumstances would’ve built them into this person. It’s definitely a challenge but I also find it deeply interesting.

What is your favourite scene and why?
In How to Break a Boy, there’s a scene with Olivia and Whit – who has been posing as Olivia’s boyfriend and whose relationship with Olivia has gotten quite complicated – right after Olivia is brought to arguably her lowest point in the book by her ex-best friend Adrienne. For both Olivia and the reader, the scene is destructive and cathartic but ultimately, draining. I love Olivia’s anger in the scene because it’s as much at herself as Adrienne, and also ties into her conflicting feelings about Whit and not wanting to let him go. I love the depth of Olivia’s pain in that scene and then her desperation to hold onto one last good thing. I still remember writing that scene which might be why I love it so much!

Which element of toxic friendships did you enjoy tackling the most? Building up the symbiotic relationship between Olivia and Adrienne was probably the most interesting part of writing this book for me. I definitely wanted the book to have this pervasive idea that while their friendship was deeply problematic, they really felt like they had needed each other up to this point in their lives, which is how their relationship became so tangled and all those layers are what make untangling it so difficult for the two of them.

If you could pull a prank on someone, who would you do it to and how would you do it?
I like really elaborate (but harmless!) pranks. I think it’d be really fun to replace all the family pictures in my mom’s house with pictures of dogs or something like that, though she would probably find it less amusing.

It seems that your next book, Winner Take All, is about love and toxic competition. I can see that you like tackling relationship issues. Is there a reason behind this?
I like thinking about morally complicated people a lot. People go out into the world every day and do terrible things! Things that seem objectively terrible, but there has to be some reason why. So I think most of my interest in these relationships stems from that. How relationships can change a person, really set them on a path. Mostly I like deconstructing stereotypes we have of different people and, excuse the cover-related reference, seeing the fireworks that go off when they collide.

Thank you, Laurie!

Guys, you have to check out Laurie's upcoming book. Here's a little teaser about Winner Take All:

About the Author:

Laurie Devore was born and raised in small town South Carolina and graduated from Clemson University. She now lives and works in Chicago, where she misses the charms and contradictions of the south every day. In her spare time, she reluctantly runs marathons, watches too much TV, and works a “y’all” into every conversation. How to Break a Boy is her first novel.

Find Laurie: Website | Blog | Twitter | Instagram

Book Description:

Hardcover, 342 pages
Published January 31st 2017 by Imprint

Keep your enemies close, but your friends closer.

Olivia Clayton has mastered the art of tearing others down to stay on top. She and her best friend, Adrienne, rule their small southern town like all good mean girls do--through intimidation and manipulation.

After Olivia suffers a family tragedy and catches Adrienne sleeping with her boyfriend, Olivia is over it. She decides to make a change--but it's impossible to resist taking Adrienne down one last time. Up to her old tricks, Olivia convinces golden boy Whit DuRant to be her SAT tutor and her fake boyfriend. But when it starts to feel real, Whit gets caught up in Olivia and Adrienne's war.

Olivia may ruin everything she touches, but this time she won't go down without a fight--not if it means losing Whit.

And definitely not if it means losing what's left of herself.

Giveaway

Thanks to Laurie for sponsoring this giveaway!
What's up for grabs: Signed Hardcover of How to Break a Boy
Scope: US

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Get your daily dose of YA and MG debut goodness in #CelebratingDebutantes2017! 

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