Book Review: Desires of the Dead (Body Finder, #2) by Kimberly Derting

Desires of the Dead (Body Finder, #2) by Kimberly Derting

Reading Level: Young Adult

Release Date: Available Now

Publisher: HarperCollins

Pages: 368

Source: Received from publisher for honest review

Summary: The missing dead call to Violet. They want to be found. Violet can sense the echoes of those who've been murdered—and the matching imprint that clings to their killers. Only those closest to her know what she is capable of, but when she discovers the body of a young boy she also draws the attention of the FBI, threatening her entire way of life. As Violet works to keep her morbid ability a secret, she unwittingly becomes the object of a dangerous obsession. Normally she'd turn to her best friend, Jay, except now that they are officially a couple, the rules of their relationship seem to have changed. And with Jay spending more and more time with his new friend Mike, Violet is left with too much time on her hands as she wonders where things went wrong. But when she fills the void by digging into Mike's tragic family history, she stumbles upon a dark truth that could put everyone in danger.

My Review: Ever since Kimberly came out with her debut, The Body Finder, I've been a fan of her thrilling storytelling. In the follow-up, Desires of the Dead, I was brought back into Violet's haunting world of hearing echoes from the dead. After a stream of never-ending calls from the hidden bodies, Violet assumed she could now enjoy some quality time with her newly tagged boyfriend, Jay. But, yet again she was wrong. If you read The Body Finder, you know Jay as the good-looking and devoted best friend. This time around, I got to experience him in a different light as Violet's boyfriend.

By eliminating the back and forth feelings between the two, I appreciated their connection more. Unfortunately, instead of Violet sitting back and enjoying what she had, she made herself a little crazy with insecurity. Jay would continually get hit on by girls, even though I honestly didn't know why. He never came off as this smoldering guy, instead I always pictured him as an adorable and sweet individual. Eh, everyone has different tastes.

Moving on, the best aspect of this sequel was Violet's stalker. Off the bat, I figured out whose mind we were diving into, however by the end, I was blown away at the unexpected reveal. Derting has this unique ability of tricking the reader into thinking one way and then hitting them over the head with amazing twists and turns. I wasn't really a fan of YA thrillers until I started this series. It brings this element of justice for all those innocent deaths, while always somehow putting Violet in the eye of danger. I might have not loved it as much as The Body Finder, but it was a pretty good continuation. I am looking forward to seeing Violet grow into a much more rounded person, with Jay by her side. All in all, it's so far a great series by a very talented author.

My Rating:
Book Trailer:

Author's Info:

Kimberly is the author of THE BODY FINDER and DESIRES OF THE DEAD (HarperCollins) and the upcoming release, THE PLEDGE (Nov 2011, Simon & Schuster). She lives in the Pacific Northwest, the ideal place to write anything dark or creepy...a gloomy day can set the perfect mood. She lives with her husband and their three beautiful (and often mouthy) children who provide an endless source of inspiration.

For more info on Kimberly, visit her sites:

-Website

-Blog

-Twitter

-Facebook

-GoodReads

IN MY MAILBOX (July 29, 2011)

Credit goes to: Kristi from The Story Siren for 'In My Mailbox' / Inspired by Alea from Pop Culture Junkie

For Review:

-Dreams of Significant Girls by Cristina Garcia

-Are You Going to Kiss Me Now? by Sloane Tanen

-Deadly Cool by Gemma Halliday

Many Thanks To: Simon & Schuster, Sourcebooks Fire and HarperCollins

Books Bought:

-None

I'd love to hear what you got, so leave a comment!

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:: Book Trailer of the Week ::

:: Song of the Week ::

Tantalizing Future YA Releases!

Tantalizing Future YA Releases is a weekly feature where I showcase upcoming YA covers. In addition, 'The Blast from the Past' section focuses on previously released books that still deserve a voice after a few years of silence. If you are inspired by this part of the meme, giving credit will be greatly appreciated.

All titles are linked to GoodReads for summary details. Also, please note that covers may not be final. If changes occur I will replace the covers with the new versions.

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• Au Revoir, Crazy European Chick by Joe Schreiber (Houghton Mifflin Books for Children, 10/25/11)
• Pink Smog By Francesca Lia Block (HarperTeen, 1/24/12)

• The Fine Art of Truth or Dare by Melissa Jensen (Speak, 2/16/12)
• The Disenchantments by Nina LaCour (Dutton Juvenile, 2/16/12)

• Forgiven (Demon Trappers, #3) by Jana Oliver (St. Martin's Griffin, 2/28/12)
• The Visitor (The Clone Codes, #3) by The McKissack's (Scholastic Press, 2/28/12)

• Black Hole Sun By David Macinnis Gill (Greenwillow Books, 2/28/12 - Paperback Version)
• The Boy on Cinnamon Street by Phoebe Stone (Arthur A. Levine Books, 2/28/12)

• The Deserter by Peadar O. Guilin (David Fickling Books, 3/13/12)
• Infamous (Chronicles of Nick, #3) by Sherrilyn Kenyon (St. Martin's Griffin, 3/13/12)

• Spell Bound (Hex Hall, #3) by Rachel Hawkins (Hyperion Book CH, 3/13/12)
• Take A Bow by Elizabeth Eulberg (Point, 4/2012)

• Fever (The Chemical Garden #2) by Lauren DeStefano (Simon & Schuster Children's Publishing, 2/21/12) - I can't wait!!

:: AWESOME PAPERBACK COVER ::

• Across The Universe by Beth Revis (Razorbill, 11/29/11)

:: BLAST FROM THE PAST ::

• Snitch by Allison van Diepen (Simon Pulse, 11/27/07)

Summary: In a school run by gangs, staying out was harder than joining. We knew who our friends were, and were careful what we said. If people thought we were haters, it would only be a matter of time.... Lines are clearly marked at South Bay High School. It's mixed territory for the Crips and the Bloods, which means the drama never stops. Julia DiVino wants none of it. No colors, no C-Walks -- it's just not her thing. But when Eric Valienté jumps into her life, everything changes. Lines are redrawn. And then they're crossed.

Waiting On Wednesday: Fearless Trilogy by Francine Pascal

"Waiting On" Wednesday is a weekly event, hosted at Breaking the Spine, that spotlights upcoming releases that we're eagerly anticipating.

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Fearless: Fearless; Sam; Run by Francine Pascal

Reading Level: Young Adult

Release Date: January 3, 2012

Publisher: Simon Pulse

Pages: 600

Summary: Gaia is a brilliant, beautiful girl who is trained in three kinds of martial arts, has a reflex speed that’s off the charts, and can climb mountains, box, wrestle, and break codes in four languages. She has no trouble throwing a grown man over her shoulders. She doesn’t care what people think of her, and she’s never scared…Because she is missing the fear gene. In this action-packed bind-up, Gaia makes her way through the treacherous halls of high school and is forced to come to terms with herself, the boys in her life, and her completely MIA family. But she can handle it. She is....Fearless.

My Thoughts: Even though the description is a bit vague, I am still intrigued by the idea of a kick-ass protagonist. Plus, how beautiful is that cover! I look forward to reading this trilogy when it comes out.

What are your thoughts on Fearless?

(Add to GoodReads here)

Beautiful Book Hangover: Anna Dressed in Blood by Kendare Blake

Beautiful Book Hangover will be posted sporadically on La Femme Readers. According to the Urban Dictionary, "a book hangover is a headache you get after staying up into the wee hours of the morning staring at teeny tiny print." As book addicts we've all experienced this type of hangover many times, so why not share them with each other? You are more than welcome to use this idea, just as long as you credit me.

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Book Hangover Choice:

Anna Dressed in Blood (Anna Dressed in Blood, #1) by Kendare Blake

Reading Level: Young Adult

Release Date: August 30, 2011

Publisher: Tor Teen

Pages: 320

Summary: Cas Lowood has inherited an unusual vocation: He kills the dead. So did his father before him, until he was gruesomely murdered by a ghost he sought to kill. Now, armed with his father's mysterious and deadly athame, Cas travels the country with his kitchen-witch mother and their spirit-sniffing cat. Together they follow legends and local lore, trying to keep up with the murderous dead—keeping pesky things like the future and friends at bay. When they arrive in a new town in search of a ghost the locals call Anna Dressed in Blood, Cas doesn't expect anything outside of the ordinary: track, hunt, kill. What he finds instead is a girl entangled in curses and rage, a ghost like he's never faced before. She still wears the dress she wore on the day of her brutal murder in 1958: once white, now stained red and dripping with blood. Since her death, Anna has killed any and every person who has dared to step into the deserted Victorian she used to call home. But she, for whatever reason, spares Cas's life.

Why it kept me up: I don't want to say too much since my review will be up next week. But, wow this book blew me away with how creepy it was! I really love when young adult novels push the envelope and let me tell ya Kendare did just that! Plus, I was amazed at how much I enjoyed Cas's narrative. I'm not really a fan of male protagonists, since it is hard for me to connect with them, but I couldn't get enough of him!

Time of sleep: 1:00 AM

Which book kept you up all night this week?

Book Review: Dark Parties by Sara Grant

Dark Parties by Sara Grant

Reading Level: Young Adult

Release Date: August 3, 2011

Publisher: Little, Brown Books for Young Readers

Pages: 320

Source: Netgalley.com

Summary: In a world shrouded in fear and lies, how can you shed light on the truth? Sixteen-year-old Neva lives in Homeland, an isolated country separated from the rest of the world by the Protectosphere. The government insists there’s nothing beyond its borders, but as Homeland’s resources dwindle, people, girls mainly, have started to go missing. If there’s no way out of the Protectosphere, where are they going? Suspecting the government is lying about everything, Neva and her friends stage a Dark Party in the hope of uncovering the truth and finding the freedom they dream about.

My Review: The characters in Dark Parties live in a society where it's safeguarded by the Protectosphere, a secluded bubble run by the overzealous government. Rebellion is frowned upon, while orderly conduct and a plain way of living is enforced. I'm sure most of you have heard the saying, "Big brother is watching you." In this case, it's very much true, the quiet revolt is slowly sweeping across the people. However, if careful precautions aren't taken, the vigilant government will easily make individuals disappear. Creepy right? One day you are attending secret meetings, the next you are gone without a trace.

In the beginning, Sara introduces the reader to a party where faces are hidden in the dark, causing the novel to create a sinister atmosphere. At first, I was a bit confused on what exactly was happening, however it didn't falter my curiosity. Also, in the mix of things the protagonist, Neva, is surprised when someone makes out with her. When the lights go on, her best friend's boyfriend is looking at her and smiling. Oh the drama! Let me just say, the kissing scenes throughout Dark Parties were pretty steamy, Sara sure knows how to start with a bang! If you decide to read the book and find the first chapter a little awkward, I promise it gets better once you pass it.

Moving on, Neva's confidence and determination helped me connect with her on a deeper level. The thought behind the "missing" being out there, gave her the fuel she needed to find out secrets no one expected. In addition, the blossoming relationship between Neva and Sanna's boyfriend captivated me until the end. Yes, it was wrong in so many ways, but the undeniable chemistry was there all along. All in all, I really enjoyed the amusement value of the storyline. After reading so many dystopian books this year, I can say that this one had elements that I usually look for. It kept me interested from start to finish with heart pumping chapters and likable characters. From the way it left off, I have a feeling a sequel is in the works. I'm excited to see what ride Sara takes me on next!

If you're interested in reading Dark Parties, go here to enter my contest!

My Rating: (4.5)

Book Trailer:

Author's Info:

Sara Grant is an American living in the UK. Born and raised in Washington, Indiana, Sara graduated from Indiana University with degrees in journalism and psychology. She now works as a freelance writer and editor for Working Partners, a London-based company creating series fiction for children. She lives in London with her husband. This is her first novel.

For more info on Sara, visit her sites:

-Website

-Twitter

-Facebook

Time for some relaxation...

Hey ladies & gents! Lately, I've been so busy with work and life in general, so I won't be posting this weekend. I just want to sit back and relax. I've been lucky to catch up on reading though so I hope you all tune in to my reviews next week! I'll be back on Monday.

Stay indoors, this heat is crazy! :)

My Second Love: Korean Pop/Dramas

Last night, I was too sleepy to schedule a post. Plus, my brain was too fried from work to even write a review. It'll be up tomorrow though! In the meantime, I wanted to share with you all my second love. I am obsessed with not only Korean pop music, but their dramas too.

Now, for those of you who don't know me. I'm not Korean. Far from it, I'm just a little ol' Greek girl. But, was I possibly Asian in my past life? I wouldn't be surprised! I have no clue what they are saying, but the lyrics and beats are always so catchy! The music has a tendency of uplifting my day.

Also, Korean dramas, are just as addicting! Below, I have a few songs I am jamming too and some of my favorite dramas. I hope you enjoy the post, and hopefully I can bring some newbies to the Asian side! Bahahaha. ;)

:: MUSIC ::

:: DRAMAS ::

Shin Ji Hyun was enjoying absolute bliss as she was about to marry her fiancé, Kang Min Ho, but her perfect life is shattered when she gets into a car accident that leaves her in a coma. She is given a second chance at life by a reaper, but it comes with a condition: she has to find three people outside of her family who would cry genuine tears for her. In order to do this, she borrows the body of Yi Kyung, a part-time employee at a convenience store for 49 days.

WATCH IT HERE:

http://www.mysoju.com/korean-drama/49-days/

Jan Di is an average girl whose family owns a dry cleaning store located near the luxurious and well known Shin Hwa College. Jan Di meets the four richest and most spoiled boys known as the F4. After saving a boy from jumping off the roof of Shinhwa High School, she is admitted into the school on a swimming scholarship. Jan Di tries to avoid confrontation with the F4 at all cost because she knows what happens to those that stand against them. However, when Jan Di's friend, Oh Min Ji, accidentally gets ice cream on the leader of the F4's shoes, she's forced to declare war on the leader of the F4, Goo Joon Pyo. What will happen though, when she falls in love with someone from the F4 and Goo Joon Pyo start feeling something for her too? Will the love triangle disrupt F4 and change their lives forever?

WATCH IT HERE:

http://www.mysoju.com/korean-drama/boys-before-flowers/

The management company of the idol group A.N.JELL insisted on adding a new singer to the group as the lead vocal, Tae Kyung's voice was hurting. However,the new member, Mi Nam, had to go to the States to repair a botched eye job just before signing the contract. His agent came up with the idea of having his twin sister, Mi Nyu,to stand in for him and pretend that she was her brother. The two of them grew up in an orphanage and Mi Nyu, who was all set to become a nun, agreed to this charade as she didn't want to spoil her brother's chance of fame which would make it easier to look for their mother.

WATCH IT HERE:

http://www.mysoju.com/korean-drama/youre-beautiful/

A spunky 35-year-old housewife, Yoon Gae Hwa, takes on the job of manager to prickly top star Sung Min Woo in order to earn enough money to regain custody of her child from her ex-husband. Romantic hijinks and hilarity ensues when they find themselves in an awkward living situation as Min Woo pays Gae Hwa to take care of his daughter, Ye Eun.

WATCH IT HERE:

http://www.mysoju.com/korean-drama/oh-my-lady/

Waiting On Wednesday: Bewitching by Alex Finn

"Waiting On" Wednesday is a weekly event, hosted at Breaking the Spine, that spotlights upcoming releases that we're eagerly anticipating.

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Bewitching (The Kendra Chronicles) by Alex Finn

Reading Level: Young Adult

Release Date: February 14, 2011

Publisher: HarperTeen

Pages: 304

Summary: Kendra Hilferty, the witch who curses Kyle Kingsbury in Beastly, tells about her immortal existence—how she discovered she was a witch and the various ways she has used her powers to help people throughout the centuries. (Unfortunately her attempts have often backfired.) As it turns out, Kendra has actually had a hand in "Hansel and Gretel," "The Princess and the Pea," and "The Little Mermaid"—but these are not the fairy tales you think you know! Kendra’s reminiscences are wrapped around a real-time version of "Cinderella," except the “ugly” stepsister is the good guy. With dark twists, hilarious turns, and unexpected endings, Bewitching is a contemporary read for fairy-tale lovers, fantasy fans, and anyone looking for more Alex Flinn.

My Thoughts: I really loved Alex Finn's Beastly, so when I heard it was about Kendra, the witch, I was so excited! Alex always takes fairy tales and spins them into a modern tale you can fall in love with all over again. And I mean look at that cover! It's so beautifully dark and I want her dress. I cannot wait for this release.

What are your thoughts on Bewitching?

(Add to GoodReads here)

Tantalizing Future YA Releases!

Tantalizing Future YA Releases is a weekly feature where I showcase upcoming YA covers. In addition, 'The Blast from the Past' section focuses on previously released books that still deserve a voice after a few years of silence. If you are inspired by this part of the meme, giving credit will be greatly appreciated.

All titles are linked to GoodReads for summary details. Also, please note that covers may not be final. If changes occur I will replace the covers with the new versions.

________________________

• Shatter Me by Tahereh Mafi (HarperTeen, 11/15/11)
• Cinder (Lunar Chronicles, #1) by Marissa Meyer (Feiwel & Friends, 1/3/12)

• The International Kissing Club by Ivy Adams (Walker Childrens, 1/3/12)
• Shadow's Edge by Maureen Lipinski (Flux, 1/8/12)

• Run (Subject Seven, #2) by James A. Moore (Razorbill, 1/15/12)
• This One Time with Julia by David Lampson (Razorbill, 2/2/12)

• Harbinger by Sara Etienne (Putnam Juvenile, 2/2/12)
• The Vanishing Game by Kate Kae Myers (Bloomsbury USA Childrens, 2/14/12)

• Pretty Crooked by Elisa Ludwig (Katherine Tegen Books, 3/13/12)
• Tessa Masterson Will Go to Prom by Emily Franklin & Brendan Halpin (Walker Childrens, 3/21/12)

• Magic Under Stone (Magic Under,#2) by Jaclyn Dolamore (Bloomsbury USA Childrens, 4/10/12)
• Ghost Flower by Michele Jaffe (Razorbill, 4/12/12)

Breaking Beautiful by Jennifer Shaw Wolf (Walker Childrens, 4/24/12)

Cursed by Jennifer L. Armentrout (Spencer Hill Press, 9/2012)

:: BLAST FROM THE PAST ::

• Mercy, Unbound by Kim Antieau (Simon Pulse, 4/25/06)

Summary: Mercy O'Connor is becoming an angel. She can feel her wings sprouting from her shoulder blades. They itch. Sometimes she even hears them rustling. And angels don't need to eat. So Mercy has decided she doesn't need to either. She is not sick, doesn't suffer from anorexia, is not trying to kill herself. She is an angel, and angels simply don't need food. When her parents send her to an eating disorder clinic, Mercy is scared and confused. She isn't like the other girls who are so obviously sick. If people could just see her wings, they would know. But her wings don't come and Mercy begins to have doubts. What if she isn't really an angel? What if she's just a girl? What if she is killing herself? Can she stop?