Suite Scarlett by Maureen Johnson

Suite Scarlett by Maureen Johnson
Scarlett #1
Published by Point; May 1, 2008
Hardcover, 368 pages
Borrowed from library

Scarlett Martin has grown up in a most unusual way. Her family owns the Hopewell, a small Art Deco hotel in the heart of New York City. When each of the Martins turns fifteen, they are expected to take over the care of a suite. For Scarlett's fifteenth birthday, she gets both a room called the Empire Suite and a permanent guest named Mrs. Amberson. Scarlett doesn't quite know what to make of this C-list starlet and world traveller.
And when she meets Eric, an astonishingly gorgeous actor who has just moved to the city, her summer takes a second unexpected turn.
Before the summer is over, Scarlett will have to survive a whirlwind of thievery and romantic missteps. But in the city where anything can happen, she just might be able to pull it off.

-Description from Goodreads.com

When I started this book, I was fairly certain I would like it. I mean, The Suite Life of Zack and Cody is one of my all-time favorite shows! I think that's reason enough!

However, I think my standards might have been a bit high as I was pretty disappointed with the book. The third-person perspective made it hard for me to really relate with any of the characters and it made it seem like I was reading a middle-grade book instead of one for teens. 

It was vvvveeerrryyy slow and it took me so long to really enjoy this book. The setting was splendiferous but without a good plot, the book was bland. 

Another thing that bugged me was the whole Eric and Scarlett thing. It was weird and I don't think it had anything to do with the age difference...ok, so MAYBE it had a bit to do with the age difference. I mean, I know three years isn't that much but it just felt inappropriate for me to have Scarlett who practically just got out of her tweens to be dating - or kind of dating - someone who was about to enter college. 

One good thing about this book that - along with the great setting - helped me get through this was Spencer! Spence was so lovable and I enjoyed every scene he was in wholly! 

Suite Scarlett may not have been the best book but it definitely deserves to be turned into a television show what with all the unique characters and settings! Now there's a show I'll be sure to tune in for! And even though it wasn't very action packed, I don't regret reading...and finishing this!!!

Yours, Annie

Top Ten Series I Have Yet To Finish

This week's topic will definitely be a good way for me to keep track of the MANY series I have yet to finish. So I present to you this week's Top Ten!

1. Magic in Manhattan by Sarah Mlynowski

OMG I loved the first three books of this series!!!! Unfortunately, my friend has not been very reliable and I have still not received the fourth book...and I asked her TWO YEARS ago!!!! I think I'll just go to the library instead...

2. Secrets of my Hollywood Life by Jen Calonita

I really liked this series and all the book were great (except for Paparazzi Princess...) and I'm looking forward to finishing soon!

3. Anne of Green Gables by L.M. Montgomery

These books are so SWEET! It's like the 20th century equivalent of today's chick lit! I LOVE IT!!! The only thing stopping me from finishing this series is that...well...there are like ten books!!! And the lovable youthful Anne living in beautiful,beautiful Cavendish is gone by book 5! Hmmm...this requires a little more contemplation.

4. Geronimo Stilton by Geronimo Stilton

I made a vow to myself in Grade 3 that I would read all the Geronimo books. I have yet to finish.

5. Neil Flambe by Kevin Sylvester

I remember reading the first book in Grade 5 and it was pure genius! The fourth book is out now and I'm still on the third! Must get my hands on these soon!

6. The Series of Unfortunate Events by Lemony Snicket

As a child, these were my favorite books. Now, going back and reading it again I find it a bit repetitive but still very very cute. The thing is, I read them out of order so I have NO IDEA which books to read! 

7. The Chaos Walking by Patrick Ness

I've only read the first book and I don't remember anything from it...except that Manchee dies. (Spoiler!) I'm not sure if that's a good sign so I've been putting the series on hold but I think it might be time to give it another go. What do you think?

8. 11 Birthdays by Wendy Mass

I read the first book by accident because I thought that was the book my friend recommended. It wasn't. I didn't like the first book at all so I don't think I'll be finishing this series any time soon. Unless I'm really bored.

9. Pretty Little Liars by Sara Shepard

This series is amazing! I was a bit thrown off by Wanted and the whole last book...NOT thing but it is still definitely a must-finish!

10. And Then Everything Unravelled by Jennifer Sturman

I made the mistake of reading the second book first so I know everything which is obviously why I would not want to read the first book. That and the fact that I didn't enjoy the second so much. However, I hear that the first is much better so I might give it a shot.

Here's my list - looking forward to reading your lists and suggestions. Mwah, Annie

Top Ten Tuesday is hosted by the gals over at The Broke and the Bookish.

I've Got Your Number by Sophie Kinsella

I've Got Your Number by Sophie Kinsella
Published by The Dial Press; February 14, 2012
Hardcover, 433 pages
Borrowed from library

I've lost it. :( The only thing in the world I wasn't supposed to lose. My engagement ring. It's been in Magnus's family for three generations. And now the very same day his parents are coming, I've lost it. The very same day! Do not hyperventilate, Poppy. Stay positive :)!

Poppy Wyatt has never felt luckier. She is about to marry her ideal man, Magnus Tavish, but in one afternoon her "happily ever after" begins to fall apart. Not only has she lost her engagement ring in a hotel fire drill but in the panic that follows, her phone is stolen. As she paces shakily around the lobby, she spots an abandoned phone in a trash can. Finders keepers! Now she can leave a number for the hotel to contact her when they find her ring. Perfect!

Well, perfect except that the phone's owner, businessman Sam Roxton, doesn't agree. He wants his phone back and doesn't appreciate Poppy reading his messages and wading into his personal life.

What ensues is a hilarious and unpredictable turn of events as Poppy and Sam increasingly upend each other's lives through emails and text messages. As Poppy juggles wedding preparations, mysterious phone calls, and hiding her left hand from Magnus and his parents...she soon realizes that she is in for the biggest surprise of her life.

- Description from Goodreads.com

OMG! Sophie Kinsella never stops, does she? She. Is. Amazing. I love her so much and this book is wonderful!!!!! 

I love the ridiculousness of it all and I love that in the midst of all the chaos, Poppy still has time to fall in love with someone. I mean, seriously? That's awesome!!!!

Love love love love love love love! This book is a must-read for EVERYONE! Get it now! You won't be disappointed!

Hugs and kisses, Annie

In My Mailbox (2)

Urgh! Sorry guys! It was a busy day yesterday but anyway, this week's In My Mailbox.

From the library:

Suite Scarlett by Maureen Johnson

L.A. Candy by Lauren Conrad

Something Like Fate by Susane Colasanti

Purchased:

TTYL by Lauren Myracle

In My Mailbox was created by Kristi at The Story Siren and inspired by Alea at Pop Culture Junkie.

The Truth About Forever by Sarah Dessen

The Truth About Forever by Sarah Dessen
Published by Penguin Group Inc.; May 11, 2004
Paperback, 374 pages
Borrowed from the library

A long, hot summer...


That's what Macy has to look forward to while her boyfriend, Jason, is away at Brain Camp. Days will be spent at a boring job in the library, evenings will be filled with vocabulary drills for the SATs, and spare time will be passed with her mother, the two of them sharing a silent grief at the traumatic loss of Macy's father.


But sometimes unexpected things can happen - things such as the catering job at Wish, with its fun-loving, chaotic crew. Or her sister's project of renovating the neglected beach house, awakening long-buried memories. Things such as meeting Wes, a boy with a past, a taste for Truth-telling, and an amazing artistic talent, the kind of boy who could turn any girl's world upside down. as Macy ventures out of her shell, she begins to wonder, Is it really better to be safe than sorry?

- Description from Goodreads.com

I cannot believe it took me so long to finally read a Sarah Dessen! This book was genius! It was sweet and cute and sad and it was everything I love in a book! There was absolutely nothing bad about this in my eyes. Nothing at all.

And one final thing: WES! OhmigodOhmigodOhmigodOhmigodOhmigodOhmigod!!!!!!!!! Wes...he is like the quintessential guy! I mean, who cares if he's been arrested and at a reform school? I don't! He's cute and funny and gorgeous...what more could you ask for? Oh and did I mention he was GORGEOUS? (Cue the sa-woon) 

Obviously, I  loved this book and I suggest you read this (if you haven't read it already). And I suggest it especially for those of you who loved Amy and Roger's Epic Detour. Which is another book you should read if you haven't yet. 

Hugs and Kisses, Annie

Any Suggestions?

OK, so I'm in kind of a pickle here.

My friend is having her bat mitzvah and I have NO IDEA what to get her!

Actually, I figured out that I would get her a book but I really have no idea which book to get.

So I figured that some of you who read my blog could help?

Here's a list of books she has read (and loved):

-The Percy Jackson Series

-The Heroes of Olympus (But don't suggest The Mark of Athena)

- The Fault in Our Stars

-The Truth About Forever

-Amy and Roger's Epic Detour

-The Pretty Little Liars Series (Except don't suggest Burned either)

- A Mango Shaped Space and The Candymakers

- The Harry Potter Series

- The Hunger Games

- The History of Love

-The Book Thief

Any suggestions?

Top Ten Bookish People I Want to Meet

WARNING: Chances are this will probably a veeeery long list but I'll try to keep it as short as possible. If that's even possible...


1.  David Levithan

Do I even have to explain? Read one of his books and then get back to me.


2. Sarah Dessen

OK, I'm not even halfway through my first Sarah Dessen (The Truth About Forever) and I already want to meet her. Who wants to bet on whether or not I'll read her other books?


3. J.K. Rowlling

Well, being a serious Potterhead I think this goes without saying. Hopefully by meeting her, some of her writing talent will rub off.


4. Chris Colfer

Kurt is one of my favorite characters on Glee and meeting him would be a DREAM. And since he has written two books, he definitely belongs on this list.


5. Nicholas Sparks

 One of my secret wishes is to be able to experience a love such as those in all of Nicholas Sparks' novels. That has yet to happen but maybe in the meantime, I'll be able to meet him and persuade him to write a novel specially for me? It's an idea...


6. Stephenie Meyer

To be honest, I wasn't a big fan of Twilight but I would love to have a chat with Stephenie on whether she's Team Edward or Team Jacob (Team Jacob all the way!!!!).


7. Morgan Matson

Morgan crafted one of my favorite YA novels and I would love to meet her.


8. Jenny Han

I loved Shug which is the only Jenny I've ever read. She just sounds so nice and amazing and funny. And speaking of Jenny Han, I would also love to meet her BFF, Siobhan Vivian whose book, Not That Kind of Girl, I loved.


10. Sophie Kinsella

Have I ever told you how awesome Brits are? Here's an example. Never fails to amaze me with her amazingly ridiculous yet lovable-very lovable-novels.


11. Rick Riordan

I enjoyed Percy Jackson very much and I would like to meet him and give him my opinion on his books which (coincidentally?) all seem to have the same premise.


12. Suzanne Collins

Love The Hunger Games and I love her. Thanks for making post-apocalyptic dystopia (one of my favorite genres) popular!!!


13. Ann Brashares

Even though I was so upset at her for making that sad thing happen in the fifth book (if you've read, you'll know), I would still love to meet her. Her books are amazing and I will not stop reading them over and over until a new book from her comes out.


14. John Green

If you want to make me cry and laugh at the same time, all you need to do is hand me The Fault in Our Stars. One book is the only thing needed to make me do the most unlikely thing to do when reading books in the history of all unlikely things to do when reading books. And might I say, that that's a pretty good achievement? I still have yet to read his other books but he's so great that I can be sure that I will love them.


15. Pseudonymous Bosch

Just to find out who he is really. Not knowing bugs me.

So there's my uber long list. Until next time, ciao!

Top Ten Tuesday is hosted by the gals over at The Broke and the Bookish.

The Academie by Susanne Dunlap

The Academie by Susanne Dunlap
Published by Bloomsbury USA Childrens; February 28 2012
Hardcover, 368 pages
Borrowed from library

Eliza Monroe-daughter of the future president of the United States-is devastated when her mother decides to send her to boarding school outside of Paris. But the young American teen is quickly reconciled to the idea when-ooh, la-la!-she discovers who her fellow pupils will be: Hortense de Beauharnais, daughter of Josephine Bonaparte; and Caroline Bonaparte, youngest sister of the famous French general. It doesn't take long for Eliza to figure out that the two French girls are mortal enemies-and that she's about to get caught in the middle of their schemes.

Loosely drawn from history, Eliza Monroe's imagined coming of age provides a scintillating glimpse into the lives, loves, and hopes of three young women during one of the most volatile periods in French history.

- Description from Goodreads.com

If there's one thing you should know about me, it's that I LOVE historical fiction. I LOVE IT. I don't read it much but when I do, I find myself completely wrapped up in the story. 

The Academie was a wonderful choice for this month's historical fiction book. It dealt with an era I'm not too familiar with so I learned a lot about what it was like after the Terreur. I enjoyed all the characters very much and I thought the writing was very good.

One thing I didn't think worked very well was the Madeleine parts. I understand that there had to be a way to explain the big, very important scene at the end as well as the romance between her and a very prominent character but it just felt awkward. It felt like I was watching America's Got Talent when the results are being announced when suddenly, there's a commercial break. It was incredibly annoying and it was at these parts where I got the most bored.

Other than that, I thought the book was incredible and I liked it very much.

Au Revoir, Annie

In My Mailbox (1)

Welcome to my first In My Mailbox! I am so excited to share all the books I got this week! And super excited to start reading them!

From the library:

The Academie by Susanne Dunlap

I've Got Your Number by Sophie Kinsella

In Too Deep by Amanda Grace

The Truth About Forever by Sarah Dessen

Purchased:

Guinness World Records 2013

Brave New World by Aldous Huxley

In My Mailbox was created by Kristi at The Story Siren and inspired by Alea at Pop Culture Junkie.

Naomi & Ely's No-Kiss List by Rachel Cohn and David Levithan

Naomi & Ely's No-Kiss List by Rachel Cohn and David Levithan
Published by Knopf Books for Young Readers; August 28, 2007
Hardcover, 230 pages
Borrowed from library

Naomi and Ely are best friends. Naomi loves and is in love with Ely, and Ely loves Naomi, but prefers to be in love with boys. So they create their "No Kiss List" of people neither of them is allowed to kiss. And this works fine - until Bruce.

Bruce is Naomi's boyfriend, so there's no reason to put him on the List. But Ely kissed Bruce even though he is boring. The result: a rift of universal proportions and the potential end of "Naomi and Ely: the institution." Can these best friends come back together again?

- Description from Goodreads.com

Well, there's one book on my Fall TBR list! Nine more to go!

I liked this book. It had a very interesting premise and I enjoyed following Naomi and Ely as they explored their friendship.

The set-up was very unique. I loved how it featured so many different characters, each telling a little bit of the story. It was a great idea but there were some points I just felt it wasn't necessary to introduce a new character and some points where I felt there were just too many. My head started swimming with different names and it became hard to keep track of who's who.

I did feel a bit bored at times but it was always short-lived for there was always, ALWAYS another laugh-out-loud line waiting for me.

I loved this book so much and I do recommend it. You might feel it has too much going on at some points or at times, you might feel a bit bored but in the end, I'm sure you'd love this book as much as I did. Maybe even more.

Love, Annie