Review: Mission One of Auggie The Alien

Title: Mission One of Auggie the Alien

Authors: Leah Spiegel and Megan Summers

Publisher: Createspace

Published: June 4, 2013

Format: Kindle

Pages: 120

Source: Received in exchange for an honest review

Add On Goodreads : Add To Your To Read Shelf

Synopsis: This is the humorous story of a 4th grader, seen through the eyes of a human hybrid alien child, sent to Earth to study our culture - to see if they could coexist with the humans.

Auggie has to try and understand 4th graders slang, body language, and the unwritten protocols of the classroom; all in an attempt to blend in. He upsets his teacher, Mrs. Malumrector, who constantly thinks Auggie’s trying to get smart with her when getting stupid with her would be counterproductive. Not only does Mrs. Malumrector not get Auggie’s literal logic, nor do any of the other students in his class. That is except for Left Hand Chuck who thinks Auggie’s hysterical and helps him by teaching him how to use human slang. 

But if Auggie truly wants to complete his mission of blending in with the other children he needs to cheer for both teams, except if they’re losing. He needs to learn not to wear the ‘P and the J’ with the feet conveniently attached to school because they’re for sleeping in only. That ironically enough, Grandpa isn’t going to faint from low blood pressure even though his eyes often tend to roll upwards whenever Auggie is speaking. ‘Pop-a-Squat’ isn’t a good name for a dog, even though he’s great at it. And under no circumstance is he to bring his pet to school even if his teacher has her own pet there, Emily, another student in his class who is neither a gerbil nor a fish.

My Rating:  5 Stars

Melissa's Musings:

This is a very cute story of Auggie, a half human half alien hybrid child from "a galaxy far far away" who has been sent to earth for onsite observations, to see if his kind can peacefully co-exist with humans. We follow him as he accomplishes the three very  important goals he's set for himself: to be invited to a sleepover, to go on a social outing with more than one friend, and to be invited to a birthday party.

This book is laugh out loud funny. I really grew to like Auggie's quirks and idiosyncracies as I read through the story. In some ways, he reminded me (a little) of a young version of Sheldon from The Big Bang Theory. I couldn't quite picture Auggie physically in my head as I read, but that was okay because his antics and smarts certainly kept me entertained. 

I don't read children's books too often, but it was neat to look at the world through Auggie's eyes. His unusual responses to events and the way he handled them were refreshing. As an adult reader it made me wish I could be a kid with such enthusiasm and zest for life as Auggie has.

There are some great plays on words and fun scenes in this book. If you're looking for a new series to start reading with a child in your life, I'd definitely recommend this one.

Book Review: The Rockin' Chair

Title: The Rockin' Chair

Author: Steven Manchester

Publisher: The Story Plant

Published: June 25, 2013

Format: Kindle

Pages: 272

Source: Received from the publisher

in exchange for an honest review

Read: September 23, 2013

Genre: Contemporary

In A Few Words: Poignant

My Rating: 5 Stars

Goodreads: Add This To Your To-Read Shelf

Goodreads Synopsis:

Memories are the ultimate contradiction. They can warm us on our coldest days or they can freeze a loved one out of our lives forever. The McCarthy family has a trove of warm memories. Of innocent first kisses. Of sumptuous family meals. Of wondrous lessons learned at the foot of a rocking chair. But they also have had their share of icy ones. Of words that can never be unsaid. Of choices that can never be unmade. Of actions that can never be undone.

Following the death of his beloved wife, John McCarthy Grandpa John calls his family back home. It is time for them to face the memories they have made, both warm and cold. Only then can they move beyond them and into the future.

A rich portrait of a family at a crossroad, THE ROCKIN' CHAIR is Steven Manchester’s most heartfelt and emotionally engaging novel to date. If family matters to you, it is a story you must read

Melissa's Musings:

This is the 2nd book I've read by Steven Manchester. His first, Twelve Months, pulled me in from the very first page. The Rockin' Chair is no different. I don't know quite how he does it, but Manchester manages to create a world that the reader is immediately pulled into from the very first sentence. I settled in instantly, already feeling at home with the family from the start.

This book deals with some tough issues.

 At the forefront, we have John, the family patriarch. He's a beloved grandfather, a father, a hard worker, a devoted husband. We watch as he struggles with watching his wife Alice lose her memories to Alzheimers.

The relatioship between Alice and John is beautiful. The kind that most of us dream to have. Where someone loves us so much that they will take care of us through anything, no matter how difficult life gets.

 Upon Alice's death he calls his family back to his farm in Montana.  We watch as he pieces the family back together again, using memories. Some lighthearted and positive, some not so happy. He helps his grandchildren deal with some of their inner demons.

 Evan ran away from the farm, eager to get away from his abusive father and small town life. He was hoping to settle down with a girl who he thought he loved, who only turned around to break his heart by cheating on him. George, a war veteran whose time at war caused him to make some decisions that he wasn't proud of, is still fighting, even though he's returned home. Only now he's fighting to come to peace with himself. And Tara, who left for New York hoping to make it big, only to fall to the temptation of drugs and alcohol, who knows she needs to change her ways for her young daughter.

It's an emotional journey as you read on to discover how John manages to help each one of his family members. Painful as it is to relive some of these memories that John helps each family member recall, there are lessons in each of them. He even manages to bring some peace and redemption to himself, and repair his relationship with his son Hank.

The rocking chair that the story's title comes from is a central part of the story. It has an intimate significance to the bond that the family shares. The idea of a rocking chair holds different memories and ideals for each of the characters throughout the story. One thing I've noticed is that each of Manchester's recent books features a chair/chairs on the cover. 

 This book had me in tears several times over the course of reading it. I devoured it in a few hours. Even though the story was resolved well, it still left me wanting more. I can't wait more from this talented author.

Review: Godspeed: A Love Story

Title: Godspeed: A Love Story

Series: N/A

Author: Dan Chabot

Publisher: Createspace

Published:  June 12, 2012

Genre: Romance

Format: Kindle

Pages: 306

Source: Received from author

Read: March 4-5 2013

My Rating: 5 Stars

Goodreads: Add To Your To-Read Shelf

Goodreads Synopsis:

When Derry and Amedee fall in love, it is a collision of destinies, and they are sure it will last forever. But when it ends in tragedy, Derry, beset by remorse and guilt, sets off on an improbable, reckless crusade for redemption. When it finally ends abruptly, he has found someone to help him build a new life from the ashes of the past, and readers are left to ponder a poignant question: How can a lie be wrong when it makes so many people feel so good?

Melissa's Musings:

When I first started reading this book, I was afraid I would end up really not liking it. It just didn't make sense at first. It starts out at a funeral, and I figured "Oh no, that can't be good." But then it delves into more of the story before the funeral, so thankfully my perception changed.

There are a lot of characters with slightly ridiculous, and some very unusual, sometimes alliterative names. These include Phil Farell, Finbar O'Halloran and Hortense Hickenlooper to name a few. And there are a lot of them. At first I was thining that having so many characters would mean an onslaught of useless information, or confusion. But, in the end, each one has a distinct personality, with just the right amount of detail as to get a sense of who they are as a person but not so much as to overwhelm the reader.

There are a few inconsistencies with some of the details about the characters but  these are very minor and do not detract from the story at all.

One of the best parts about this book is that this crazy cast of characters has a list of running gags that will make you laugh so hard you cry. At one point I had tears streaming down my face, I was laughing so hard. I don't want to ruin the effect by demonstrating with quotes, you really have to read it for yourself to see what I mean, but lets just say there are some crazy names that get slipped into news stories and some very creative headlines with double meanings.

Derry and Amedee's relationship is really what glues the story together. Their relationship moves quickly, (but not insta-love quickly) It is tender, sweet, and true.  They just fit very well together. They have some extremely tender moments with each other that were enough to move me to tears.  I can't say much about what happens with them without ruining the story. But I will say that I like how everything comes full circle in the end.

This is an amazing story that will take you on a rollercoaster of a journey. You'll laugh, cry, and you may even wonder "Do I appreciate the people in my life enough?" This story reminds the reader that life is short and that people should appreciate the people in their lives, because you never know what could happen.

Son by Lois Lowry

Title: Son (The Giver Quartet #4)

Author: Lois Lowry

Publisher: Houghton Mifflin Books for Children

Published: September 1, 2012

Format: Hardcover

Pages: 393

Source: Library

Read: October 27-29th 2012

In A Few Words: Heartwarming, yet full of sacrifice

My Rating: 5 Stars

Goodreads: Add this book to your TBR shelf

Goodreads Synopsis:

They called her Water Claire. When she washed up on their shore, no one knew that she came from a society where emotions and colors didn’t exist. That she had become a Vessel at age thirteen. That she had carried a Product at age fourteen. That it had been stolen from her body. Claire had a son. But what became of him she never knew. What was his name? Was he even alive?　 She was supposed to forget him, but that was impossible. Now Claire will stop at nothing to find her child, even if it means making an unimaginable sacrifice. Son thrusts readers once again into the chilling world of the Newbery Medal winning book, The Giver,　as well as Gathering Blue　and　Messenger　where a new hero emerges. In this thrilling series finale, the startling and long-awaited conclusion to Lois Lowry’s epic tale culminates in a final clash between good and evil.

Melissa's Musings:

This was such an excellent book. I first read The Giver when I was in 7th grade (too long ago) and was so curious about the story. I didn't understand the concepts on the same level that I understand them at now as an adult, but it made a big impact nonetheless. I didn't know there were sequels to The Giver until I took a class on YA Literature when I was in college. I read Messenger and The Gathering Blue for a project in that class and was enthralled by those as well. So, once I heard that Son was coming out, I knew there was no way I wouldn't read it.  And I'm so very glad I did.

Honestly, I'm surprised that I got this from the library as quickly as I did, because I assumed a lot of people would want to read it. And obviously, they do because there are over 1000 ratings and the book hasn't been out more than a few months yet. 

Even though it's been a while since I read the first three books, I had no trouble falling right back into that world again. The beginning of the book goes back into the past, when Jonas is still in The Community. It gives more background about Gabe, and particularly about his origins, which I know that I was curious about, even in The Giver.

There's so much to say and yet, I don't want to ruin anything by giving spoilers. This quartet has been so long in the making I would feel horrible spoiling anything, so this review is going to be very general and to the point.

Claire is a strong, determined character. She gives up a lot, for someone that she loves, and it's hard to watch her struggle through the effects of the choices she's made. In addition to her struggles she also sacrifices a  great deal personally. As I read, I found myself wishing and hoping that, in the end, her struggle and sacrifices would be worth it. I'm glad to say that they were.

Jonas is no longer the leader in his community. He now has a family of his own, with Kira, and it is nice to see him happy and more relaxed. He has become wise and sure of himself, similar to the Giver in the original story. It's obvious to see how much he loves Gabe, and cares for him, and the community as a whole.

Although this book is meant to be the conclusion to the series, there is still so much more I want to know. I have so many questions, so many details I'm wondering about. I gave away my copies of the other books in this series a few months ago, but I'm thinking that at some point I'll check out all four books from the library and do a read-through of the whole series.

This is an excellent novel. I would recommend it to fans of Lois Lowry, and for anyone looking for a unique twist on dystopias.

The Fault in Our Stars by John Green

Title: The Fault in Our Stars

Author: John Green

Publisher: Dutton Books

Published: January 10, 2012

Format: Hardcover

Pages: 318

Source: Library

Read: November 20, 2012

In A Few Words : Powerful

My Rating: 5 Stars

Goodreads: Add This To Your TBR Shelf

Goodreads Synopsis:

Diagnosed with Stage IV thyroid cancer at 13, Hazel was prepared to die until, at 14, a medical miracle shrunk the tumours in her lungs... for now.

Two years post-miracle, sixteen-year-old Hazel is post-everything else, too; post-high school, post-friends and post-normalcy. And even though she could live for a long time (whatever that means), Hazel lives tethered to an oxygen tank, the tumours tenuously kept at bay with a constant chemical assault.

Enter Augustus Waters. A match made at cancer kid support group, Augustus is gorgeous, in remission, and shockingly to her, interested in Hazel. Being with Augustus is both an unexpected destination and a long-needed journey, pushing Hazel to re-examine how sickness and health, life and death, will define her and the legacy that everyone leaves behind.

Melissa's Musings:

This is my first John Green book. I checked out An Abundance of Katherines once, but it got lost in the stack of library books and had to be returned before I could read it. Now that I've read The Fault in Our Stars, I want to gobble up the rest of Green's books as fast as I can if they're all as powerful as this one.

I've been seeing reviews of this book around the blogosphere for months now. Nearly all of the reviews have raved about it, so I was the tiniest bit skeptical that it would live up to all the hype, but it definitely did.

The Author's Note for this book is one of the more interesting ones I've seen.

"This is not so much an author's note as an author's reminder of what was printed in small type a few pages ago: This book is a work of fiction. I made it up.

                Neither novels or their readers benefit from attempts to divine whether any facts hide inside a story. Such efforts attack the very idea that made-up stories can matter, which is sort of the foundational assumption of our species.
                  I appreciate your cooperation in this matter."

When I first read this I thought it was strange that he would point this out. But, as the story goes on, I see why he did. I'm not sure that I fully agree with this point, though. Simply because I'm always wondering what an author's motivation is for writing a story they way they do and whether there are any hidden facts inside stories. As the saying goes, "Write what you know" so in many cases some of these stories must contain hidden facts. I don't, however, think that these efforts, should any reader choose to pursue them, attack the idea that made up stories can matter. If I did, I doubt I would have been nearly as attached an emotionally invested in this book as I was.

This book will take you on an emotional rollercoaster, so be prepared. You'll laugh, you'll cry, you may even laugh while crying, like I did. This book packs a serious punch.

Hazel is such a great character. She's sharp, witty, philosophical, and yet still teenagery at times, as her mother puts it. Hazel might seem bitter or cynical about her diagnosis to some, but I took it more as realistic than anything. Her voice in the story is real. It's natural and the dialogue, especially her internal monologues, flow so smoothly.

Some of Hazel's quotes are deep. I know this one has probably been quoted a million times, but it really speaks volumes about the story and about how Hazel feels.

"I'm like. Like. I'm like a grenade, Mom. I'm a grenade and at some point I'm going to blow up and I would like to minimize the casualties, okay?"... "I'm a grenade" I said again. "I just want to stay away from people and read books and think and be with you guys because there's nothing I can do about hurting you; you're too invested, so just please let me do that, okay? I'm not depressed. I don't need to get out more. And I can't be a regular teenager, because I'm a grenade." (Green, 99)

This quote speaks volumes about how it must feel to live with cancer. I couldn't imagine it. And when I read this, I felt like I'd been punched. Hazel is realistic about her diagnosis. She doesn't like it of course, but she seems to have reached a place of acceptance.

And then there's Augustus. The oh so cute boy who happens to walk into the support group that Hazel and Issac attend. And he's interested in her.

I loved Augustus' character. He was the perfect mix of sweetheart and bad boy. I also love the touch of him having an unlit cigarette in his mouth all the time, and the reason for not lighting it. You'll have to read it to see what I mean. Augustus always knows just what to say. And I love how he calls Hazel "Hazel Grace" I don't know exactly why I love this so much, but I do. Their romance is solid, steady, and real. 

A quote of his that I really loved:

"I'm in love with you," he said quietly.

"Augustus," I said.

"I am," he said. He was staring at me, and I could see the corners of his eyes crinkling. "I'm in love with you and I'm not in the business of denying myself the simple pleasure of saying true things. I'm in love with you, and I know that love is just a shout into the void, and that oblivion is inevitable, and that we're all doomed and that there will come a day when all our labor has been returned to dust, and I know the sun will swallow the only earth we'll ever have, and I am in love with you. 

 (Green, 153)

Isn't that just perfect?

I also love that Hazel and Augustus bond over books. Hazels' love of a book called An Imperial Affliction. Though they do bond over the book (and much more) it's their experiences surrounding it that have taught me never to put authors I love on quite as high a pedestal because you never know what may happen to change that rose colored view of them.

There's so much more that I could say about this book. But it really is one of those books that you just have to experience for yourself. It's an amazing story that deals with so many important ideas and themes, that are not only important to teens but to adults as well.

This has definitely become my new favorite book of 2012 and I would recommend it to anyone who is looking for a powerful, moving story.

What I Did On My Midlife Crisis Vacation by Debbianne DeRose Review and Giveaway

Title: What I Did on My Midlife Crisis Vacation

Author: Debbianne DeRose

Publisher: PiscAquarian Press 

Published: February 17, 2012

Format: Paperback

Pages: 252

Source: Received  From the author

in exchange for an honest review

Read: November 13-14, 2012

In A Few Words: Laugh Out Loud Funny

My Rating: 5 Stars

Goodreads:Add This To Your TBR Shelf

Goodreads Synopsis:

This saucy memoir is the oh-so-honest and humorous account of the author 's personal journey through a string of compelling adventures and ideologies of the woo-woo kind. Her story begins with confusion and discontentment that catalyzes bold life changes and sends her roaming in search of magic, miracles, and a deeper grasp of the metaphysical nature of reality. In a unique style akin to confessional reporting, she shares with you her keen insights into human behavior as you meet a plethora of colorful characters and occasional charlatans. With some good belly laughs, she effectively sorts out the wheat from the chaff---both within herself and the New Age world she 's romping in. It becomes an inadvertent healing pilgrimage full of expansive revelations, and through the process of en-lightening up she emerges clear-headed and self-empowered with inspiration to spare.

Melissa's Musings:

Let me start out by saying that this book is absolutely fantastic. It's funny, full of information, and the authors' wit and personality permeate this entire book and will make you laugh out loud.

When I first saw this book, I immediately knew I wanted to read it. The title grabbed me first, it's just catchy, and makes you wonder. Then there's the cover. It's got awesome shades of purple-ish blue and stars on it, two of my favorites. So, when Debbianne DeRose emailed me to ask if I would review this book I immediately said yes. I'm so very glad I did!

One of the big focuses of this book is the authors' experiences with a lot of different approaches to energy work and self healing. To some, this might sound like it would be drab or boring or out there, but I promise you, it's not. (Well, some of it is a little out there, but it all depends on your personal beliefs.) There's a little bit of everything. It gives you a wide scope of a lot of different energy working techniques and self improvement information.

 That's one of the things that I immediately loved about this book.Yes, there is a lot of information, but it's told with a lot of humor and real life experience mixed in, so it's not drab, or dry. It's all explored in a fun way, and not overly technical. The different methodologies are explained through the author relating her own experiences with each of these different energy/healing techniques, rather than only presenting the technical aspects of it which can really bog down a book. I personally really enjoy books that are written in this more lighthearted way because they are easier to relate to, they feel really natural. 

The other thing that I enjoyed is that the author is not out to proselytize anyone. She's only trying to explain how these different modalities can work (or in some cases not work) She doesn't take any of these extremely seriously and is very open minded I didn't sense any particular bias or preference for a certain methodology, they are all given equal time, though, as anyone would, you can tell there are certain methods she prefers over others. You can tell that right off the bat being that the name of the 2nd chapter is "One Way Ticket To Woo-landia" The play on words lies on the fact that a lot of people call energy healing/energy work "woo-woo stuff" or "new agey" ( I'm adopting the same stance as the author here and pointing out that I'm NOT trying to use the term "woo-woo" in any way that could be construed as offensive, rather just as a generalization that other people sometimes use in regards to this subject matter.) 

These kinds of witty plays on words and humor are sprinkled throughout the book. For example,

"Clairvoyance literally means "clear-seeing," which might imply that any optician's office would qualify as a clairvoyant training center. But since modern society, for the most part, has decided that auras are invisible or even imaginary, the "seeing" and the "see-ers" are largely relegated to the realm of weirdness at best, crackpotdom at worst." (DeRose, 13) 

That's only a tiny snippet of the  humor that you will find in this book.

There are several different techniques that are mentioned in this book. The author tries her hand at learning to see auras, hypnotherapy, tarot readings, Matrix Energetics, EFT, and bending spoons, among many other things.

Some of these, I've encountered before in other readings, most recently I read about EFT when I read "Stop Eating Your Heart Out by Meryl Hershey Beck. There were a lot of the technical aspects of this technique in that book. Here in What I Did on My Midlife Crisis Vacation it was more about the experience with the technique itself.

In some ways I think that you may have to be more open minded/receptive to these techniques and modalities of energy work to fully appreciate the book and what the author is trying to show through exploring all of these. Even if you're not sure about any of the subject matter though, I promise that you will be able to appreciate it and laugh along. I found myself cracking up and smirking at sarcastic points all throughout the book. Ultimately you may even  find a technique you want to try out.

With all the different perspectives and insights the author points out along the course of the book I know that there are certain things that I want to try for myself. This book really made me think about things in different ways. I'm still thinking about the topics discussed, days after reading the book.

One really neat thing that I wanted to point out is this: Have you ever heard someone say to a writer (or anyone) "You write the way that you talk?" I think the same is true of Debbianne DeRose. Even though I have only had email exchanges with her, she kept up the same "voice" within our exchanges and you can also hear it come through in the narration for the book trailer for What I Did On My Midlife Crisis Vacation"  This fact makes the book feel all that more genuine, because you can really tell it is the author relating her experiences, not trying to put on a different "voice" to write in. Also, Debbianne was willing to discuss some questions I had after reading the book which really helped me to connect with it even more and think about some of the concepts I read about in new ways.

I'm still thinking about the issues in this book, even now, and this is definitely one I will be reading again.I learned a lot about myself and the kind of work I want to do to improve some situations in my life and this book definitely gives me plenty of options for working on these things. I'd recommend this for anyone who wants an open-minded look at energy work/energy healing.

GIVEAWAY TIME!!

Debbianne has offered to give away one (1) Smashwords coupon for an e-copy of this book!

Giveaway Rules:

This Giveaway is open INTERNATIONALLY

This giveaway will run until 12:01 EST on December 6, 2012

Winners will be notified by email and will have 48 hours to respond to their notification email before another winner is chosen.

You DO NOT have to be a follower of Melissa's Midnight Musings to enter. Anyone who does choose to follow is appreciated. :)

There are no mandatory entries , do as many or as few as you like.

All entries will be verified, any false entries will be removed.

The author NOT Melissa's Midnight Musings is responsible for sending the prize  to the winner.

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Twelve Months by Steven Manchester

Title: Twelve Months

Author:  Steven Manchester

Publisher: The Story Plant

Published: August 14, 2012

Format: Paperback

Pages: 324 Pages

Source: Received from the author

in exchange for an honest review

Read: October 30-31 

In A Few Words:  Poignant, powerful, emotional

My Rating: 5 stars

Goodreads: Add this to your TBR shelf

Goodreads Synopsis:

Don DiMarco has a very good life – a family he loves, a comfortable lifestyle, passions and interests that keep him amused. He also thought he had time, but that turned out not to be the case. Faced with news that might have immediately felled most, Don now wonders if he has time enough. Time enough to show his wife the romance he didn’t always lavish on her. Time enough to live out his most ambitious fantasies. Time enough to close the circle on some of his most aching unresolved relationships. Summoning an inner strength he barely realized he possessed, Don sets off to prove that twelve months is time enough to live a life in full.

A glorious celebration of each and every moment that we’re given here on Earth, as well as the eternal bonds that we all share, TWELVE MONTHS is a stirring testament to the power of the human spirit

Melissa's Musings:

I don't quite know where to start with this book. I have so many thoughts and feelings surrounding this book that it's hard to quite articulate the complexity of them all. I really wish I had read this sooner instead of having it sit on my shelves for so long. Some of you might remember that Steven Manchester stopped by to do an interview a few months ago. You can check out that interview HERE

The book starts off with a very easy, familiar type of flow. The easygoing style makes it  simple to connect with the main character, Don Dimarco. He has an easygoing, kind personality that makes it easy to like him. When he gets the news that he has terminal cancer, he is shocked, yes, but after the initial shock he takes it in stride and really starts to live, and embrace life.

A lot of times it takes events like the news of cancer to shake someone out of their stupor and really start to live. The same is true here, and Don goes on many adventures, and manages to fulfill many lifelong dreams along the way. These  include  herding cattle, racing, and going on a second honeymoon with his wife Bella.

Many of the scenes between Don and his wife Bella are  my favorite. They are tender, gentle, and true. You can tell from the way they interact, and from Don's internal monologues just how much they love each other and how much they are willing to do to show each other.

Don realizes that his time to lavish his wife with romance, and most importantly, to make happy memories, is limited, so he tries to include her in many of these adventures that he wants to accomplish. He also focuses on her specifically, and tries to cook her a thoughtful dinner. While the cooking itself doesn't go well, the thought behind it is lovely, and Bella appreciates the effort more than the meal itself. 

Don also comes up with an elaborate plan to propose to Bella again. This dinner goes off without a hitch and they do end up having a nice ceremony. I wish that there had been more description of the second wedding, since it was such a nice gesture, but they kept it pretty simple.

Bella is very calm throughout the whole process. We don't see a great deal of the story from her perspective, but from what we do see, it's apparent that she loves Don very much and would do anything for him. While she does take time to grieve with him, she's also one of his biggest cheerleaders, fully supporting and encouraging him to get his list of goals completed.

Despite the cancer, and the effects it has on him, Don manages to make peace with many things in his life. He  makes peace with the memories of the time he spent in Vietnam, with an old friend with whom he had a falling out,  and with the fact that he won't be around for as long as he would like. He also does a lot of good with the time he has left. Even when he is not feeling so well himself, he volunteers his time to other cancer patients, children, to share with them, to let them know they are not alone. There is one particular patient, Sophia, who he bonds with quickly. Although the scenes between them are brief, they are powerful. Sophia is wise beyond her years, and is a force of goodness for Don just as much as he is one for her.

Books like this one could be told from a negative, or downtrodden perspective, but this book remains positive, and enlightened throughout. Don could have dwelt in sorrow,and pain, but he chose not to. I have to say that is one thing I found surprising is that the anger stage of his grieving process didn't appear to be all that strong. He mentioned that he went into a funk and he needed space, but didn't really express much anger at his situation.

One of my other favorites about this book is the small details that are included. There's a spot on page 41 where Don starts talking about puzzles and how much he enjoys them. The puzzles play a significant role throughout. Don works on them with his grandkids while he imparts stories and life lessons as they put it together. I won't say how, but the puzzle plays a significant role at the end of the book.

One thing that I want to mention just as something I noticed, is that there is a spiritual element to this book as Don does pray at times, and they do go to church. Some books can be overly "preachy" and be too involved in the religious/spiritual aspect, but I'm happy to say that is not the case here. The spirituality is just an added detail that comes up naturally and balances out the story nicely.

I have to warn anyone who is easily prone to crying at books that tug at your heartstrings, be sure to have a box of tissues handy for this one. I cried my way through I would say,  at least the last 50 pages or so of the novel. Although you are prepared for it, the emotional events of this book are so strong that it's impossible (or it was for me anyway) not to cry. And the wonderful thing is, although I was crying, there were still moments where I was laughing as I cried.

To me, that is a sign of excellent writing. If you can cry your eyes out because you feel so attached to the character, and yet still be able to laugh, the author definitely knows what they're doing. This book is about not taking life for granted, because you never know when you may run out of time. It teaches you to enjoy each moment, to make peace with old demons, to not be afraid to conquer your fears, no matter what your age. The small details, the intimacy between the characters, the weaving of the past with the present, the life lessons are all wonderful parts in their own right, and they combine to form a beautiful, heartwarming, novel.

I am so glad to have read this. I would recommend this to anyone looking for a heartfelt story.

Sebastian's Poet by Kevin Craig

Title: Sebastian's Poet

Author: Kevin Craig

Publisher: Musa Publishing

Published: July 6, 2012

Format: PDF review copy

Pages: 119 PDF pages

Source:  Received from the publisher 

in exchange for an honest review

Read: October 26-27, 2012

In A Few Words: Soulful, secretive

My Rating: 5 Stars

Goodreads: Add this to your TBR shelf

Goodreads Synopsis:

Sebastian Nelson is a boy in search of a family. Abandoned by his mother, Sebastian is left with a broken father who doesn’t even seem present when he does show up. Forced to be the main caregiver of his younger brother, Renee, and lost in a sea of indifference, Sebastian only wants to experience the love a real, stable family could afford him.

One morning he discovers the famous folksinger, Teal Landen, asleep on the sofa. Teal’s nurturing nature brings an immediate sense of security into Sebastian’s tumultuous life. But a dark secret looms between Teal and Sebastian’s father of a hidden past. Sebastian is driven to discover their secret, but also he’s aware of how tenuous their hold on Teal really is. He doesn’t want to lose the feeling of home Teal’s presence has brought him.

If Sebastian pushes too hard, he could lose Teal forever. He could be destined to raise his younger brother alone, while witnessing the total decline of his emotionally devastated father. If Sebastian is abandoned by the only healthy influence in his otherwise shaky existence, he will also be forever in the dark about the secret that will reveal so much about his fractured family.

Melissa's Musings:

When you first start reading, you're somewhat shocked at how Sebastian, also known as Sebby, seems so mature and together for an 8 year old.  You first meet him when he's cleaning up after his father's wild parties,  and caring for his 4 year old brother Renee, because his father's somewhat hopeless after his mom left them. He has so much responsibility that a child of his age shouldn't have. You can tell just how much these responsibilities have affected him because he seems so much older than 8, especially in his descriptions of how he feels and what he wishes he had in his family. I felt so bad for him. 

He knows that his mother walked out because they weren't enough for her, she wanted more out of life. She basically told Sebastian, in not so many words, that he wasn't enough, so she had his brother, because she wanted to have a "re-birth" Only that didn't work, so she walked out on them. That's a lot to live with for a kid so young.

Personally, I was really drawn to Sebby because I know what it's like to feel like you're not enough, and not good enough, and be told as much, even if not in so many words. 

Then, Teal makes his way into their lives, and things get to be a little better, though there are still some major disappointments. 

Teal is a major player in the novel, even though he seems like he might be a fringe character at first. There's something magnetic about him, that makes you as a reader want to know him just as much as  Sebastian does. Maybe the magnetism comes from the fact that Teal is a musician, quite a famous one in Canada, where the book is based. Plus, in addition to his personally secretive nature, he's harboring secrets that impact the family in a major way. I won't spoil any of them here, but lets just say that the explain a lot, and they make the end of the book pack a particularly heart wrenching punch.

The writing style flows easily, and the transitions are really smooth, which I really appreciated. The characters are excellently described, so that you can see them in your mind's eye. I could picture Mrs. Clark, the owner of the corner store particularly well. Even the minor characters, who are only around for a chapter or two, are easy to picture.  And so are the events and scenery. This book made me really want to have the chance to see The Eaton Centre in Toronto at Christmas.

The major lesson I came away with from this book is that most of the time, keeping secrets hurts more than it helps. And if they've been kept too long, it'll may be  too late to repair the damage once they're out in the open. 

Just a warning for anyone who gets squeamish easily there are some violent scenes that involve some blood, but nothing major. I just wanted to put that out there as a small warning to people who are particularly sensitive to that sort of thing.

This is an excellent book about family, secrets, music, and the different kinds of love that we experience in our lives. 

Hex Hall by Rachel Hawkins: One of my new favorites

Title: Hex Hall (Hex Hall #1)

Author: Rachael Hawkins 

Publisher:  Hyperion Book CH

Published: March 2, 2010

Format: Hardcover

Pages: 336

Source: Library

Read: September 1-2 2012

In A Few Words: Laugh Out Loud Funny

My Rating: 5 Stars

Goodreads: Add This to your TBR Shelf

Goodreads Synopsis:

Three years ago, Sophie Mercer discovered that she was a witch. It's gotten her into a few scrapes. Her non-gifted mother has been as supportive as possible, consulting Sophie's estranged father--an elusive European warlock--only when necessary. But when Sophie attracts too much human attention for a prom-night spell gone horribly wrong, it's her dad who decides her punishment: exile to Hex Hall, an isolated reform school for wayward Prodigium, a.k.a. witches, faeries, and shapeshifters.
By the end of her first day among fellow freak-teens, Sophie has quite a scorecard: three powerful enemies who look like supermodels, a futile crush on a gorgeous warlock, a creepy tagalong ghost, and a new roommate who happens to be the most hated person and only vampire student on campus. Worse, Sophie soon learns that a mysterious predator has been attacking students, and her only friend is the number-one suspect.

As a series of blood-curdling mysteries starts to converge, Sophie prepares for the biggest threat of all: an ancient secret society determined to destroy all Prodigium, especially her

Melissa's Musings:

Let me start out by saying I absolutely LOVED this book! I have a soft spot for books about witches as it is,  but I enjoyed Hex Hall for more than the fact that I love books about witches.

The writing is very easygoing, and the dialogue is, lets say true to the characters. It flows easily. Most of the characters in this book are teenagers, and they talk like they're teenagers. In some books this can get annoying, but not here. I think the easiness of the dialogue is one of the reasons I was able to fall in love with Sophie so quickly. She's just easy to relate to, and real.

One of the interesting things about this book is that it starts out with Sophie having already been a witch for three years. A lot of books about witches start out before, or right as the witches come into their powers, so that readers can see them grow into the powers and test them out. It was surprising that this story started out with  Sophie already having been a witch for so long. I have to say I was curious about the background and the past three years of her having her powers. Some of these events are mentioned, but there isn't a whole lot of detail. I'm hoping the first three years of her having powers is explored a little further in the coming books in the series.

Another thing that I love about this book is that it's hilarious! There were moments that had me laughing out loud, to the point where my sister asked me what was so funny. I made sure to note one of my favorite quotes that had me laughing. Of course it'd  be funnier in context if you read this book, but it stands well by itself too.

In this scene, Sophie is trying to create a dress for the upcoming All Hallow's eve ball, and she's not having much success.

I opened my eyes to stare at a bright blue tulle monstrosity with a skirt that would hit me at mid thigh. I'd look like the really slutty bride of Cookie Monster. (pg. 233)

Just the thought of a bride of Cookie Monster has me smiling as I'm typing this, so the thought of a slutty one at that is even more funny.

The names in the story are unique as well. Sophie is a common name, but then there you have characters with names like Chaston and Elodie, and those are a bit more unique. Plus the name of the school is Hecate Hall, which is cool in and of itself, since Hecate was the goddess of magic, witchcraft, the night, moon, ghosts and necromancy. Fitting name for a school of supernatural students.

Since I've read a lot of books with witches in them, I did find it a little strange that when Chaston, Elodie and Anna are trying to convince Sophie to join their coven, they keep saying that they need a 4th to make them stronger. Usually, the symbol of the pentagram is important in books about witchcraft, so I associate 5, not 4, as being a number of strength.

And, one of the best things about this is that there's a Harry Potter reference in this book! I won't spoil it for anyone who wants to read it, but books with HP references always make me smile.

I'd recommend this to anyone looking to start a new series about witches, or anyone looking for a fun read.

This was an awesome book and I can't wait to read the other two in the series! Have you read it? What did  you think?

Wicked: Witch and Curse by Nancy Holder and Debbie Vigiue is Action Packed

Title: Wicked: Witch and Curse

Author: Nancy Holder and Debbie Viguie

Publisher: Simon Pulse

Published: September 9, 2008

Format: Paperback

Pages: 672

Source: Library

Read: September 24-26 2012

In  A Few Words: Action Packed, 

My Rating:  5 Stars

Goodreads:   Add This To Your TBR Shelf

Goodreads Synopsis:

Holly Cathers's world shatters when her parents are killed in a terrible accident. Wrenched from her home in San Francisco, she is sent to Seattle to live with her relatives, Aunt Marie-Claire and her twin cousins, Amanda and Nicole. In her new home, Holly's sorrow and grief soon give way to bewilderment at the strange incidents going on around her. Such as how any wish she whispers to her cat seems to come true. Or the way a friend is injured after a freak attack from a vicious falcon. And there's the undeniable, magnetic attraction to a boy Holly barely knows.

Holly, Amanda, and Nicole are about to be launced into a dark legacy of witches, secrets, and alliances, where ancient magics yield dangerous results. The girls will assume their roles in an intergenerational feud beyond their wildest imaginations...and in doing so, will attempt to fulfill their shared destiny

Melissa's Musings:

This book starts off immediately with action. Usually, I like a lot of background and setup, but diving into the action works well in this case. The metaphors and just the scenery, dreams, senses and feelings that the characters experience are all described really well. So well that I found myself cringing at certain parts including a lot of the sacrifice scenes.

That is one warning I would put out there to anyone who may pick up this book. There are a lot of scenes of sacrifices, including the drowning of a cat, so if you are sensitive to these kinds of scenes be forewarned. As a comment on the cat sacrifice scene in particular, I did find it disturbing, but I can also see why Holly felt she had to do it. Not saying that I agree with it, just that I understand why it was done. 

I really liked the different levels of the exploration of magic in the book. There's the lighter side, where we see Amanda and Holly slowly trying to learn everything they can about white magic, and the innocent magic that Nicole does with her mom. Then there's the Deveraux family which is full of dark magic. It's nice to see both sides. I also enjoyed the fact that they took a more traditional route with some of the scenes with the rituals in that the coupling of a man and a woman creates the most powerful kind of magic. But, they were also open minded in that there is a gay couple in the book who can create extremely powerful magic together as well.

It's obvious to me anyway that Holly is the most powerful character, since she is so connected to her past (to the point of possession). I'm curious to see just how much she changes as she explores her power even further and as it grows.

I have a soft spot for books about witches, and Wicca, so I really enjoyed this. Plus there's a Charmed reference (pg 267 for anyone who's curious) so I had to like it. No, just kidding, but I'm really glad I did enjoy it so much because I had to read it in the span of a day and a half because I left it too long and it was due the next day at the library. Someone had already checked out the next book in the series otherwise I would have picked it up right away.

I'd recommend this to anyone looking for a great book that explores different elements of magic and Wicca in an action packed story, with a little romance thrown in.

Review: The Five Lives of Our Cat Zook by Joanne Rocklin

Title: The Five Lives  Of Our Cat Zook

Author:  Joanne Rocklin

Publisher: Harry N. Abrams

Published:  April 1, 2012

Format: Hardcover

Pages:  240

Source: Won in a Goodreads  Giveaway

Read:  July 31 2012

In a Few Words: A sweet, colorful, fun story

My Rating: 5 wonderful stars

Goodreads: Add it to your to-read shelf

Goodreads Synopsis: 

n this warmhearted middle-grade novel, Oona and her brother, Fred, love their cat Zook (short for Zucchini), but Zook is sick. As they conspire to break him out of the vet’s office, convinced he can only get better at home with them, Oona tells Fred the story of Zook’s previous lives, ranging in style from fairy tale to grand epic to slice of life. Each of Zook’s lives has echoes in Oona’s own family life, which is going through a transition she’s not yet ready to face. Her father died two years ago, and her mother has started a relationship with a man named Dylan—whom Oona secretly calls “the villain.” The truth about Dylan, and about Zook’s medical condition, drives the drama in this loving family story.

Praise for The Five Lives of Our Cat Zook

“Oona’s character is a combination of Harriet the Spy in curiosity and Anastasia in spunk. Another emotionally satisfying outing from Rocklin; hanky recommended.”

—Kirkus Reviews

Melissa's Musings:

I loved this book. The characters are loveable, the wordplay is fun, there are tons of interesting theories told only the way a child would tell them. I loved it for the variety in perspective. It was such a nice change from all the YA and Adult fiction that I normally read. 

In this story we meet Freddy and Oona, brother and sister who are being raised by their mother after their father's death. They have a cat, named Zook, who has become a beloved member of their family. When Zook suddenly gets sick, it brings back memories for Oona of the time when her father is sick too, so she has to deal with all of those memories and emotions that she's kept hidden for so long.

This book is full of stories within stories. It's told from Oona's perspective, and man is she one smart kiddo. She has very creative and inventive theories. One is the Big Whopper theory, where all the lies people tell are color coded for the kind of lie that they are. Black Whoppers are meant to hurt someone, White Whoppers are meant to make someone feel better. 

Or, there's the name theory, in which Oona declares that everyone's name is perfect for them, no matter  what. Here's a quote to explain the theory: 

"Gramma Dee's name is easy Dee RW (rhymes with) bee=honey=sweet like candy. Gramma Dee likes to make Russian taffy, which she learned from her Russian grandmother, who was born in Russia." (pg. 49)

I think what she's trying to say is that people grow into their name, or the meaning of it. They personify that meaning. I think to some extent that becomes true after a while.

I love the wordplay in this book. The play on words with Zook (the cat's) name. Then there's the fact that the kids get paid in fried Zuchinni and pizza is great, and so are the cute word games that Oona plays with Freddy to teach him to read. I love when authors take the time to add these small but important touches to their stories because it helps you become that more attached to the characters.

Oona also has a lot of responsibility for such a little girl. She picks her brother up from school, she's teaching him to read, (with rhyming games and pictures, which I loved) and she even has an after school job. She gets paid in food, but still. For someone so young, that's a lot to handle, but Oona handles most of what comes her way pretty well. She isn't too fond of her mother's new boyfriend, but for a girl whose beloved father passed away that's not a surprise.

Among  all these inventive theories and stories about cats who have 9 lives there are a lot of real life observations and lessons which are told in only the way a child can see them. Children have such a different view of the world than adults. There's such innocence, and yet such depth, as well as insight. It's easy to forget how much insight kids have until you read a story like this. And when you do, boy can it pack a punch.

 I feel a bit silly admitting this, but I found myself tearing up at the end of this novel, not because of what happens to the characters, but because of the depth and richness of the lessons that Oona learns and the changes that she goes through throughout the course of the book. Now, it takes a lot for me to cry at a book. I have to be really invested in the story, and this was definitely a story that I was invested in. It's got a little bit of everything. It's a sweet story about family, love, loss, friendships, and growing up. I'd recommend it to anyone who enjoys heartfelt stories.

What about you, do you have any interesting theories that you'd like to share?

Review: Mockingjay by Suzanne Collins *May Contain Some Spoilers*

Title: Mockingjay

Author: Suzanne Collins

Publisher: Scholastic Inc

Published: August 24 2010

Format: Hardcover

Pages: 390

Source: Received as a gift

Read: June 5-6th

My Rating: 5 Stars

In a Few Words: Emotional,  Vengeful,  intense

Goodreads: Add it to your shelf

Goodreads Synopsis:

My name is Katniss Everdeen. Why am I not dead? I should be dead.

Katniss Everdeen, girl on fire, has survived, even though her home has been destroyed. Gale has escaped. Katniss's family is safe. Peeta has been captured by the Capitol. District 13 really does exist. There are rebels. There are new leaders. A revolution is unfolding.

It is by design that Katniss was rescued from the arena in the cruel and haunting Quarter Quell, and it is by design that she has long been part of the revolution without knowing it. District 13 has come out of the shadows and is plotting to overthrow the Capitol. Everyone, it seems, has had a hand in the carefully laid plains--except Katniss.

The success of the rebellion hinges on Katniss's willingness to be a pawn, to accept responsibility for countless lives, and to change the course of the future of Panem. To do this, she must put aside her feelings of anger and distrust. She must become the rebels' Mockingjay--no matter what the personal cost.

Melissa's Musings:


My initial reaction on finishing this was just a huge sigh, and then "Wow." I have to say, I didn't quite expect it but the epilogue did make me tear up a little. It's not too surprising I suppose, since I was at the point of goosebumps several times reading this.  I went tearing through the first 300 pages and then wanted to slow down and savor it.

There are so many twists and turns, it's a constant ride of action, with very little downtime. Poor Katniss seems destroyed by all that's she's been through, and yet there's more damage coming.

There were a few things that I felt kind of...I don't quite know the word I'm looking for, disappointed maybe?

Kat and her family are relatively safe, living in District 13 now that she's been rescued. And at first, it looks like life might start to get better, but then you realize that District 13 uses Katniss in their own agendas as much, if not more than President Snow does. The manipulation by District 13 is very thinly veiled, and angering to those of us who just wanted to see Katniss be free from all of the chaos.

I was angry that they didn't rescue Peeta right away as well, but I understand to a point why they didn't. I don't like it, because they did it to use Katniss, to make them do what they wanted, to get her to become their Mockingjay.

Where I was lamenting in my review of Hunger Games that Kat didn't feel enough of what had happened to her, here it almost seems like too much. You can tell that everything that's happened has gotten to her, that something inside has snapped. Especially when you read about her hiding in places like dark closets and laundry chutes. I think this breakdown is part of what makes me feel so much for her at the end of the book. She's survived the games twice and now this extra game playing with District 13 just doesn't seem fair anymore.

There is a lot of death in Mockingjay. It's to be expected in the middle of a war, but there's just so much. And many of the characters I really grew to love. Particularly Cinna. I don't know exactly what it was about him but the first second I read about Cinna I liked him. And the way that they beat him right in front of Kat to rattle her before her second entrance into the Games, was just unfair. Expected, by the very nature of the Capitol, but still unfair. There are many other deaths that I could talk about, but I don't want to put in any spoilers.

There's so much I could say about this series. I'll just say that I'm glad that I read them, because they are really life changing. They truly do stop and make you think. I should hope to think that our current society will never end up like Panem. What a scary place that would be.

Review: Catching Fire by Suzanne Collins *May Contain Some Spoilers*

Title:  Catching Fire

Author:  Suzanne Collins

Publisher: Scholastic  Press

Published: September 1 2009

Format: Hardcover

Pages:  391

How I Received This Book: Got it as a gift

Read: June 3rd-4th

My Rating: 5 Stars

In  A Few Words: Gripping and intense

Goodreads: Add it to your shelf

Goodreads Synopsis

Against all odds, Katniss has won the Hunger Games. She and fellow District 12 tribute Peeta Mellark are miraculously still alive. Katniss should be relieved, happy even. After all, she has returned to her family and longtime friend, Gale. Yet nothing is the way Katniss wishes it to be. Gale holds her at an icy distance. Peeta has turned his back on her completely. And there are whispers of a rebellion against the Capitol-- a rebellion that Katniss and Peeta may have helped create.

Much to her shock, Katniss has fueled an unrest she's afraid she cannot stop. And what scares her even more is that she's not entirely convinced she should try. As time draws near for Katniss and Peeta to visit the districts on the Capitol's cruel Victory Tour, the stakes are higher than ever. If they can't prove, without a shadow of a doubt, that they are lost in their love for each other, the consequences will be horrifying.

In Catching Fire, the second novel of the Hunger Games trilogy, Suzanne Collins continues the story of Katniss Everdeen, testing her more than ever before... and surprising readers at every turn.

Melissa's Musings:


I devoured Catching Fire. Collins really pulls through and keeps the high paced, action packed energy going. There's a slight calm in the action at the beginning, since Kat and Peeta have now returned home and are seemingly safe after their victory in The Hunger Games. Though they get to live a more privileged life in the comfort of Victor's Village, they are far from safe.

Katniss (and everyone else) knows that she defied the Capitol with her actions in The Hunger Games. That simple act of picking up the berries does not sit well with those in power. President Snow is none too happy with her and makes certain to tell her so. The action just gets better and better from there with sharp twists and turns that left me guessing and gasping all the way through.

The plot is so strong, so intricately woven and full of detail. Each new twist leaves you wondering what could possibly happen next.

 I love the way that Peeta develops even more in this story. You can tell the depth of his feelings for Kat in his actions (or lack thereof in some instances, ) and that her spurning him has hurt him. Although for the sake of appearances, he will keep up their charade. Collins explores his painting/design talents and his descriptions of colors in certain  scenes are breathtaking and really add to the emotion of the overall scene. I also enjoyed the fact that it's through his talent that Peeta makes his own act of defiance against the Capitol.

Gale's feelings for Kat are more thoroughly revealed in this novel as well, which I was pleased about, since I was disappointed that they got cut off previously.

There is a bit of a struggle for Kat's attention/love triangle element, but I have to say, I'm really glad that it's done in a subtle way. It makes it much more palatable and realistic.

Another character that I was thrilled to see more of was Cinna. Oddly, every time I read his name, I kept wanting to call Cinna "Cinnamon". I'm not sure why, it just came automatically.  I love the simple complexity  of his relationship with Katniss. They have a sort of unspoken  bond that is extremely powerful. Cinna's beautiful dresses are powerful statements by themselves, and with Katniss wearing them, as symbolic as certain ones are, even more so. I think I enjoy Cinna because he is the one who seems the most removed from the Capitol way of life even though he is smack in the middle of it. He's the least marked of any of Kat's prep team, the most down to earth I suppose. I was shocked when they beat him in front of Kat before the Quell, and I could feel for her when she saw it, feel part of what she must have felt.

Another thing that I was relieved to see was the obvious struggle both Peeta and Kat go through in dealing with what has occurred in The Hunger Games. I was rather concerned about the fact that they didn't seem to be affected by having to kill their peers, but those concerns  were put to rest once I read the inner demons that both Kat and Peeta were having to deal with as a result of the games. And after being thrown back in a second time for the Quarter Quell, it's obvious just how much it really affects them.

Along with the Quarter Quell there are also instances of uprisings among the districts and all of the problems that those create. Though the majority of Catching Fire focuses on the Quarter Quelll games, I have a feeling that Mockingjay will focus more on the uprisings, and I'm looking forward to seeing what happens with that.

I'd again recommend this for anyone who likes a fast paced adventure.

The Girl Who Played With Fire by Stieg Larsson *There May Be Some Spoilers*

 

Author: Stieg Larsson

Publisher: Penguin Canada

Published: July 5 2011

Format: Paperback

Pages:  503

How I received this book: Got this as a present from my boyfriend

Goodreads:  Add it to your "To-read" shelf

Amazon: Buy it here

Synopsis

Mikael Blomkvist, crusading journalist and publisher of the magazineMillennium, has decided to run a story that will expose an extensive sex trafficking operation between Eastern Europe and Sweden, implicating well-known and highly placed members of Swedish society, business, and government.

>But he has no idea just how explosive the story will be until, on the eve of publication, the two investigating reporters are murdered. And even more shocking for Blomkvist: the fingerprints found on the murder weapon belong to Lisbeth Salander—the troubled, wise-beyond-her-years genius hacker who came to his aid in The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo, and who now becomes the focus and fierce heart of The Girl Who Played with Fire.

As Blomkvist, alone in his belief in Salander’s innocence, plunges into an investigation of the slayings, Salander herself is drawn into a murderous hunt in which she is the prey, and which compels her to revisit her dark past in an effort to settle with it once and for all

Read:  May 8-20th

My Rating: 5 stars

In a few words: A gruesome web of twists and turns

Melissa's Musings:

When I first started the Millenium Trilogy, I'll admit I didn't think I was going to like it at all. The first 100 pages was really dry, and I just couldn't get into it. Thankfully, I stuck with it. By the middle of the first book, I was hooked. And at the end, I knew I just had to keep reading.

The character I connected with most has to be Lisbeth Salander. I like her because she's rebellious, but not in a typical, almost trendy, teenage way. She's quick on her feet, both mentally and physically, and she can melt into the crowd easily. She's different. She doesn't follow normal social convention. 

 I think the reason I like her so much is because I envy her confidence,

 I also really admire the fact that she sticks up for her moral beliefs. Although, I don't necessarily like all of the violence that accompanies her actions and belief system, I understand it. Especially now, after reading The Girl Who Played With Fire and finding out so much more about her past.

That has to be one of the aspects I was most pleased with about TGWPWF. As I read The Girl With The Dragon Tattoo, I remember saying to myself, "I really wish there was more detail about Lisbeth." I noticed in a lot of the other reviews I read that many people thought that there was too much background information, and they didn't like TGWPWF as much because of it.

Not me. I'm one of those readers who likes to get fully engrossed in the character and their background. The  more detail you can give me, the better. That's part of the reason I kept reading. Larsson gave me just enough info about Salander to keep me hooked into wondering if there'd be more about her in the next book, and he did not disappoint. 

***Spoiler Alert**

And now, with the revelation that Lisbeth has a twin sister, I find myself wanting to know more about Camilla. How is she different from Lisbeth? What role did she really play in everything? What does she really think of Lisbeth?

***End Spoiler***

Generally, I'm not much on thriller stories, but this one flows really well, and the action clips along at a pace that's not too fast, but fast enough to keep you hooked and wanting to read on. The violent scenes are done tastefully, as are the numerous sex scenes.

The supporting characters in this story are really varied, which works out well. The different (albeit few) people in Salander's circle are so different that sometimes it's hard to see how they might have all come to know her. But  once you find out the circumstances, and more about their backgrounds, it makes sense as to why they care for her so much, and she for them.

There is one little quirky detail, that stuck out in my mind and I want to mention it just to see if anyone else noticed it or has any thoughts on it. I noticed that almost every time that Salander went to pick up food, and a couple of times when Blomkvist went to get food they always went to 7-Eleven. And they didn't just get junk, they got staple foods like bread and cheese and apples. Now, when I think of 7-Eleven, I think of soda, chips, and junk food, not apples, cheese and bread. It was just interesting to me that Larsson used 7-Eleven instead of a grocery store. Did anyone else notice this? If so what do you think?

I won't spoil the ending for anyone who hasn't read it yet, but I have to say, for the last 40 pages I went through a gamut of emotions ranging from "hell yeah she's going to get them" to "Dammit!" to "Wow, that really didn't end how I thought it would." 

And just like that, I'm hooked in for the next book.

I'd recommend this to anyone who likes a gripping adventure, and unusual characters. 

Have any of you read this? What are your thoughts on it?