cozy book corner

Saving CeeCee Honycutt by Beth Hoffman

2011-10-03T13:07:00.000-07:00

Synopsis: For years, twelve-year-old CeeCee Honeycutt has been the caretaker of her psychotic mother, Camille. The tiara-toting, lipstick-smeared laughingstock of an entire town, Camille was a woman trapped in her long-ago moment of glory as the 1951 Vidalia Onion Queen. But when she is hit by a truck and killed, CeeCee is left to fend for herself. To the rescue comes her previously unknown great-aunt Tootie in her vintage Packard convertible.

Rating: 5 stars. I really loved it. There wasn't alot of swearing, and not only that, but the storyline was so cute! it showed a side of the South that i had never seen before. It was sooo good!

Freakonomics: A Rogue Economist Explores the Hidden Side to Everything by Steven D. Levitt, Stephen J. Dubner

2011-10-03T13:04:00.000-07:00

Synopsis: Economics is not widely considered to be one of the sexier sciences. The annual Nobel Prize winner in that field never receives as much publicity as his or her compatriots in peace, literature, or physics. But if such slights are based on the notion that economics is dull, or that economists are concerned only with finance itself, Steven D. Levitt will change some minds. In Freakonomics (written with Stephen J. Dubner), Levitt argues that many apparent mysteries of everyday life don't need to be so mysterious: they could be illuminated and made even more fascinating by asking the right questions and drawing connections. For example, Levitt traces the drop in violent crime rates to a drop in violent criminals and, digging further, to the Roe v. Wade decision that preempted the existence of some people who would be born to poverty and hardship. Elsewhere, by analyzing data gathered from inner-city Chicago drug-dealing gangs, Levitt outlines a corporate structure much like McDonald's, where the top bosses make great money while scores of underlings make something below minimum wage. And in a section that may alarm or relieve worried parents, Levitt argues that parenting methods don't really matter much and that a backyard swimming pool is much more dangerous than a gun. These enlightening chapters are separated by effusive passages from Dubner's 2003 profile of Levitt in The New York Times Magazine, which led to the book being written. In a book filled with bold logic, such back-patting veers Freakonomics, however briefly, away from what Levitt actually has to say. Although maybe there's a good economic reason for that too, and we're just not getting it yet. --John Moe

Rating: To me it sounded really boring ( I had to read it for an English class) but really, after i read i started looking at things in a Completly different way, It was SOOO good! i give it 4 1/2 stars. It does have some language, and the real estate chapter was confusing. Other than that, I loved it!

Beyonders: A World Without Heroes by Brandon Mull

2011-08-12T07:35:00.000-07:00

Synopsis: Jason Walker has often wished his life could be a bit less predictable--until a routine day at the zoo ends with Jason suddenly transporting from the hippo tank to a place unlike anything he's ever seen. In the past, the people of Lyrian welcmoed visitors from the Beyond, but attitudes have changed since the wizard emperor Maldor rose to power. The brave resistors who opposed the emperor have been bought off or broken, leaving a realm where fear and suspicion prevail.

In his search for a way home, Jason meets Rachel, who was also mysteriously drawn to Lyrian from our world. With the help of a few scattered rebels, Jason and Rachel become entangled in a quest to piece together the word of power that can destroy the emperor, and learn that their best hope to find a way home will be to save this world without heroes.

Rating: I loved this book. i give it 5 stars. It was a book with an interesting concept, and it kept you riveted. this is good for all ages. this author has also written the Fablehaven series, the candy shop wars, and a picture book. thanks for reading :)

p.s. heres a trailer for the book! enjoy!

Son of the Mob by Gordon Korman

2011-03-02T14:37:00.000-08:00

Synopsis: Vince Luca is just like any other high school guy. His best friend, Alex, is trying to score vicariously through him; his brother is a giant pain; and his father keeps bugging him to get motivated. There is just one thing that really sets him apart for other kids. His father happens to be the head of a powerful crime organization. Needless to say, while Vince's family's connections can be handy for certain things-like when teachers are afraid to give him a bad grade as they can put a serious crimp in his dating life. How is he supposed to explain to a girl what his father does for a living? But when Vince finally meets one who seems to be worth the trouble, her family turns out to be the biggest problem of all. Because her father is an FBI agent-the one who wants to put his father away for good.

Rating: it was a good book. Personally i like these kind of books. I give this 3 stars. :)

Matched by Ally Condie

2011-02-23T17:05:00.000-08:00

synopisis: In the Society, Officials decide. Who you love. Where you work. When you die.

Cassia has always trusted their choices. It’s hardly any price to pay for a long life, the perfect job, the ideal mate. So when her best friend appears on the Matching screen, Cassia knows with complete certainty that he is the one… until she sees another face flash for an instant before the screen fades to black. Now Cassia is faced with impossible choices: between Xander and Ky, between the only life she’s known and a path no one else has ever dared follow — between perfection and passion.

rating: it good, its a book that you can't put down after you've started. it is along the same lines as the giver, or the hunger games. There is a basically a communist society, and the girl think its good until her grandfather tells her to wonder. anyway it was good. i can't wait for the sequel.

3 1/2 stars :)

Thanks for the memories by Cecelia Ahern

2010-08-16T10:05:00.000-07:00

Synopsis: How can you know someone you’ve never met? Joyce Conway remembers things she shouldn’t. She knows about tiny cobbled streets in Paris, which she has never visited. And every night she dreams about an unknown little girl with blonde hair. Justin Hitchcock is divorced, lonely and restless. He arrives in Dublin to give a lecture on art and meets an attractive doctor, who persuades him to donate blood. It’s the first thing to come straight from his heart in a long time. When Joyce leaves hospital after a terrible accident, with her life and her marriage in pieces, she moves back in with her elderly father. All the while, a strong sense of déjà vu is overwhelming her and she can’t figure out why …

Rating: Oh how i loved this book. warning it does say the f word. but it wasn't unnecessary i can't explain it. it only swears a couple times. other than that there was no icky parts. this is the lady who wrote P.S. i love you and oh boy this book is so so so cute! 4 stars! (cuz of the swearing otherwise it would be 5)

Artemis Fowl by Eion Colfer

2010-08-14T08:56:00.000-07:00

1st book

Synopsis: Twelve-year-old Artemis Fowl is the most ingenious criminal mastermind in history. With two trusty sidekicks in tow, he hatches a cunning plot to divest the fairyfolk of their pot of gold. Of course, he isn't foolish enough to believe in all that "gold at the end of the rainbow" nonsense. Rather, he knows that the only way to separate the little people from their stash is to kidnap one of them and wait for the ransom to arrive. But when the time comes to put his plan into action, he doesn't count on the appearance of the extrasmall, pointy-eared Captain Holly Short of the LEPrecon (Lower Elements Police Reconnaisance) Unit--and her senior officer, Commander Root, a man (sorry, elf) who will stop at nothing to get her back.

2nd book

Synopsis: The Arctic Incident sees the slightly older, perhaps slightly more mellow arch-criminal Artemis recovered from his last adventure, richer now that he has his half of a hoard of fairy gold, and happier since the Clarice Starlingesque superfairy Captain Holly Short of the LEPrecon returned his mother's ailing mind to full health. But there is still much unfinished business: Artemis Fowl Sr. disappeared when a daring escapade designed to free his family from their criminal--not to mention deeply lucrative--past and move the family's assets into legitimate enterprises went horribly wrong. Held captive by the Mafiya (the Russian organized crime syndicate) for over two years, he has been declared officially dead, but Artemis Jr. knows in his heart (yes, he does have one) that his beloved father is still alive, and he is determined to find him. Meanwhile Captain Short is temporarily on assignment to Customs and Excise as punishment for letting Fowl separate her and her People from their gold and is finding her stakeout duties a little dull. It soon becomes obvious that the pair have need of each other's considerable skills, and before long they are on track for an adventure that will ultimately have far-reaching consequences for both of them.

3rd book

Synopsis: Artemis Fowl II, criminal mastermind aged 12 is off on another crazy encounter with fairies accompanied with his ever-faithful bodyguard Butler. In this adventure, Artemis builds a cube with stolen fairy technology. It is stolen by Jon Spiro, a Chicago business man who shoots and kills Butler.Holly Short, Captain of the LEP heals Butler with magic. Unfortunately, the healing does not work as planned. It leaves Butler alive, though fifteen years older and unable to carry out his duties as a bodyguard. However, his sister, Juliet, agrees to help Fowl recover the stolen computer. With the aid of the rest of the LEPrecon team and kleptomaniac dwarf Mulch Diggums, they break into Spiro's company, Fission Chips, in the Spiro Needle. They begin their mission once Artemis is captured and placed inside the company. Artemis lets Foaly take control of the C Cube and tricks Spiro into going to the offices of his rivals Phonetix in order to sabotage their work projects, but Artemis gets Spiro arrested by a SWAT team. After recovering the C cube, Commander Julius Root orders Artemis Fowl, Butler, and Juliet mind-wiped before they cause anymore damage to the fairies

4th book
Synopsis: Evil pixie Opal Koboi is plotting a terrible revenge against her enemies, starting with Artemis Fowl and Captain Holly Short - and ending with a plan to destroy the world below ground.

5th book
Synopsis: Ten thousand years ago, humans and fairies fought a great battle for the magical island of Ireland. When it became clear to the fairy families that they could never win, they decided to move their civilization underground and keep themselves hidden from the humans. All the fairy families agreed on this, except the eighth family, the demons. The demons planned to lift their small island out of time until they had regrouped and were ready to wage war on the humans once more. However, the time spell went wrong, and the island of Hybras was catapulted into Limbo, where it has remained for ten thousand years. Now the tainted time spell is deteriorating and demons are being sucked back into the present space and time. The fairy council is concerned about this and is monitoring any materializations. But when the spells deterioration accelerates, the materializations become unpredictable. Even the fairy scientists cannot figure out where the next demon will pop up. But someone can. Artemis Fowl, teenage criminal mastermind, has solved temporal equations that no normal human should be intelligent enough to understand. So when a confused and frightened demon pops up in a Sicilian theater, Artemis Fowl is there to meet him. Unfortunately, he is not the only one. A second, mysterious party has also solved the temporal equations, and has managed to abduct the demon before Artemis can secure him. Once again, Artemis will have to pair up with his old comrade, Captain Holly Short, to track down the missing demon and rescue him, before the time spell dissolves completely and the lost demon colony returns violently to Earth.

RATINGS: I loved all of them! and will read them again!! yes yes yes i will!!!!!!!

STRAIGHT FROM THE NOTEBOOK......The Impostor/ The unexpected

2010-07-29T12:19:00.000-07:00

Prologue
   Randall Slater stepped into the high rise office, and closed the door.
"Is everything set?" Jimmy Blake said, turning his leather chair around.
"Everything will be perfect." Randall said, standing in front of the desk.
" The girl is prepared? She knows what to do?" Jimmy asked, eyes boring into Randall's skull. "Because if this plan fails, your time is up" he said smoothly, leaning back. Giving the position of indifference. Randall did not flinch. His boss was dangerous, but if you did what he asked, you were safe.
"Everything is set and ready. No one will suspect." Randall consoled, quietly confidant.
"It better be." Jimmy said, turning his attention to the papers on his desk. Randall recognized a dismissal when he saw one. He let himself out.
Jimmy Blake had been waiting for this plan to go into action for 17 years. He was patient. Finally he would get back at the couple that almost brought his downfall. Now they were going to fall. He chuckled to himself. They would never know what hit them.

Chapter 1
   "Has anyone seen my blue v-neck?!" Delody Jakes yelled down the elegant stairs of her grandmothers home. Delody and her brother Jamie had come to live with their grandparents for a couple of months while their parents went on a "business trip".
   Their parents were int he Witness Protection Program. Sylvia and Andrew Jakes had been forced into the program when they were almost murdered by people who they thought were trustworthy. Delody's parents had been in the FBI and had been investigating a gang in New York City, when someone had tipped the boss off that they were spies. The boss had them "taken care of". The gang had presumed them dead because of the craftiness of the FBI. The FBI had then put them into the Witness Protection Program, so no one would find out they were alive.
   This of course had happened before Delody and Jamie were born. The FBI were convinced the gang had dissolved, which is why Delody's parents were in Washington D.C. They were basically asking for a normal life, without the protection part. Meanwhile Delody was at grandmothers house on the New Jersey Shore.
   Delody was glad it was summer vacation. Her grandmothers house was right by the beach, and she could go to the beach whenever she wanted. She went to the beach every day. She had a routine that she followed. She always ate breakfast, packed her beach bag, went to the beach, came home, ate dinner, watched a movie with her brother, and then went to bed. Every day was like that. She liked knowing what was going to happen. Still, she always packed her bag for the unexpected. She had e everything from the basics like towels, sunscreen and an umbrella, to the unexpected like pepper spray, a pocketknife, extra clothes, and a flashlight.she was the daughter of two FBI agents after all.
   As she was packing the last few things into her bag, Delody heard a knock on her door. She glanced up. It was her brother Jamie. He leaned casually against the door frame. He was wearing a yellow shirt and white Bermuda shorts. They contrasted against his dark, tanned skin. Girls were most often attracted to him because of his dark hair, blue eyes, and volleyball body. Delody was often mistaken as his girlfriend because they did everything together.
"I think that I'm going to skip the beach today." Jamie said. Delody stopped packing and looked at him.
"Does this have anything to do with Allison?" Delody asked refering to his current girlfriend.
Jamie rolled his eyes. "No, i have a book i have to read for my summer reading list." he said.
Delody raised her eyebrows and continued packing. "Suit yourself. but i heard that there would be a beach volleyball game around 4." Delody said dangling the bait. Jamie loved volleyball. He was on their high-school's varsity team, and was in a club before they took the trip.
Jamie smiled at her. "I know what you're trying to do." He paused and rolled his eyes. " and it's working. Wait one sec, I'll come." Jamie walked to his room across the hall, and closed the door. Delody just laughed to herself and continued packing.

book idea

2010-07-05T08:56:00.000-07:00

ok this first one is what i origanally started with... and the second is edited. i edited it past this, but let me know what you think.

Prologue

   Lake Powell truly is my home away from home. It’s where I can relax and put the world away for a few precious moments. It’s the most beautiful place. The water is so blue and the red cliffs rising up to greet you as you drive into their welcoming arms. As you speed along in the boat just feeling the wind going through your hair and its wonderful! You can almost feel..... Well you almost don’t feel anything at all. It’s like the world can't reach you there.

   That how I always felt when I went with my family. But now that my parents are dead, well I don’t go anymore. It inflicts too many painful memories. Here I am dressed in black again for another loved ones funeral. My grandmother was lying in her coffin looking as peaceful as I have ever seen her. I hate viewings. They dress you up when you’re dead. Make you all pretty. I wonder if it’s just so you can get into heaven. I don’t think god would mind if you were ugly or if you were a gorgeous film star.

   My Grandmother had been taking care of me and my little brother since our parents died. She was the only family we had. My family had slowly been dying off. First it was my grandfather. He had a deadly peanut allergy. If he even had a whiff he would go into hives. My grandmother always carried insulin shots with her. At a restaurant one night the cook messed up the order and my grandfather took a bite and then all the sudden looked very uncomfortable and then took a drink of water but then he started turning purple and doubled over gasping. My grandmother realized what was happening but when she looked in her purse the insulin wasn’t there. She called an ambulance but by the time they got there he was already dead.

   They police still say it was an accident. But I don’t believe them. I know it was on purpose, but I don’t know why. My grandfather had retired when he was 60 and wouldn’t ever say what he did for his work. He always told us he would tell us when we were old enough. He had always been mysterious, He and my grandma both, evading certain questions, changing the topic when my parents were mentioned. They always had a sort of protectiveness, and mysteriousness about them.

   As all of this was going through my head as I looked at my grandmother in her silent coffin replaying the words she had said before she died. She told me as she was lying on her hospitable bed, “ Cameron, when you get home, I want you to go up to the attic. You will find a truck up there. In the trunk here is a false bottom. Pull it up and look at the papers underneath it. I have hidden some information for you and your brother. Only use it you have to . it also explains some things.” This was strange. My grandmother was always honest and she never called me Cameron she always called me cam. Something was wrong but I couldn’t put my finger on it.

   As I was pondering what this meant my brother Collin caught my eye. He’s 14 and already he was strong and starting to fill out his t-shirts. He looked so handsome in his black suit. And all of the sudden looking at him, I was a little bit breathless. He was the spitting image of my dad. He gave me a funny look when he saw me staring, and I quickly composed myself. He came over to me, and whispered so only I could hear, “Can we leave soon Cam? I’m getting tired.” He wasn’t sounding tired at all but I knew better than to say anything. Funerals drained us both. “Ya I’ll let Jen know we’re leaving”, I said. Jen was an old family friend and had been with us for as long as I can remember. She and her husband Kirt had been coming over to my parent’s house for so long, I can’t remember when they started. Kirt was always hanging around and doing stuff around my parent’s yard and house. He was our handy man. When my parents had died he had taken it hard. Both Jen and Kirt had. They were always worried about us, always wanting to know if we needed anything. After Grandma died they offered to let me and kirt move in with them, but I polity refused. I don’t know why but my grandmother had given everything to my brother and I. We had gotten her house her cat, everything. I didn’t understand it but I never did understand my grandmother.

   I went over to Jen and explained that Collin and I were tired and were going back to Grandma’s House. She was concerned, “if you wait a little longer Kirt can drive you home” she said “no need to run off now”. “I brought my own car remember?” I said. She had no response. She sighed and then nodded. “We’ll check on you when we are done here”. “I know you will “I said, smiling.

   I grabbed Collin and we went outside to my car. As we walked outside I noticed that there was a man leaning against my car. I was surprised, and wary. I had never seen this man before. He looked faintly dangerous. He was wearing black slacks, and a black suit jacket with a black shirt underneath. No tie. He had dark brown hair, and had dark brown eyes. If I hadn’t been so wary I probably would’ve been very flattered to have this handsome man leaning against my car. But I was way too paranoid for that.

    “Hello Cameron” he said in a pleasant tenor voice. He nodded politely at Collin, who stiffened. He looked me square in the eyes. “I need you to do something for me”, he said smoothly. I was getting more anxious by the moment. But I didn’t show it in my face. My face was indifferent, blank. “Depends what it is” I said just as smoothly. He smiled, his teeth were white. Almost too white. “Your Grandmother had some papers in her possession. I need them. They contain valuable information.” His eyes narrowed. “Do you know the papers I’m talking about?” he said. “Sorry I don’t believe I do”, I lied smoothly. Collin knew enough to keep quiet. His face showed surprise. “You’re sure? I wouldn’t want anything to happen to Jen or Kirt, if I find out you’re lying?” My breath Caught in my throat. I couldn’t let them get hurt. He must have seen the uncertainty in my eyes. “That’s it” he said. He smiled again. “I’ll be by tomorrow to pick up those papers. Goodbye Cameron.” He said, and then walked away. I watched him go. He got into a black Mercedes with tinted windows, and drove away.

   My pulse was racing. What was I going to do?

Prologue (edited)

   Here I am dress in black for another funeral. This time it was my grandmothers. She’s in her coffin looking as peaceful as I have ever seen her before.

   I hate funerals, but I especially hate viewings. The people being viewed are always in heir nicest clothes, and have been all dolled up for the occasion. When I was little I always you had to be all pretty to get into heaven. Now I know better. I don’t think God would mind so much if you were ugly or beautiful.

   My grandmother had been taking care of my little brother, Collin, and I since our parents died in a car crash a little over a year ago. I had been sixteen at the time. It was hard on me, but especially so on Collin. He had been fifteen at the time and when they died he hadn’t been the nicest child ever. He soon regretted his moodiness. Now he’s changed. He’s more solemn and withdrawn. I worry about him sometimes. As I’m looking over at him now and noticing how nice he looks in his black suit. He has really grown up. Physically and emotionally. He gives me a quick puzzled look, but keeps on talking to some friend of grandma’s.

   Grandma, dear grandma. She had suddenly had a heart attack, and gone to the hospital. She was dying, and she knew it. The doctor told us that she had already made her funeral arrangements, and completed her will. The doctor said her lawyer would contact us soon. The lawyers name was John Snoot. I felt bad for the guy truly I did. Can you imagine having the last name Snoot? He showed us her will. Collin and I were shocked. “Whoa” was all Collin could say. I just stared at it. My Grandmother, had given us everything, from her cat to the house.

Epilouge

2010-06-18T15:25:00.001-07:00

Epilogue

“Congratulations” “Thank you!” I said. I leaned over to Collin. “Amazing turn out seeing as you were dead and all.” I said. He laughed. “It’s only because of your fast work that we were even able to have this wedding.” He said. “Ya I was pretty good wasn’t I? I mean after I healed and all.” I said smiling. “Well that was the last of the people to come through the line.” Bev said, coming up behind us. “Time to cut the cake!” She sang. I had never seen her so carefree in her life. “Whatever you say, Bev!” I said. I looked at Collin. He was Blonde again. Now he was my husband and I would be married to him for eternity. Everything was perfect.

chapter 6

2010-06-18T15:24:00.000-07:00

Chapter 6

   I woke up to find Ruby, and Bev leaning over me. “What happened?” I asked trying to sit up. Ruby pushed me back down. “Shh Shh we will explain it after your surgery.” She said. “Everything will be alright.” Bev said. Then the nurse came in poured something in my IV bag, and soon everything went black.

    The first thing I felt was my stomach. I felt nauseas. After I made sure I wasn’t going to throw up, I opened my eyes. Then I felt the pain. “Ugh” I said. Everyone was sitting in a chair, Even Aaron Smith. “Aaron?” I asked
   “Kristen” he said. “I’m not Aaron. I’m Collin.”
   “No, Collin’s dead.” I said.
   “I feel pretty alive right now.” He said smiling.
   “Collin?” I asked trying to sit up. Bev came and helped me. I gasped when I moved and he pain got worse. Bev stopped.
   “Are you alright?” She asked.
   “Ya” I gasped. “The pain just hurts.” I said wincing as I sat against the pillows. “Uh what hurts exactly and why?” I asked. “You got shot in the hip. The bullet lodged in the bone and they had to perform some surgery to get it out, but you are fine now. You’ll just be in some pain for a couple of weeks.” Ruby said.
   “Oh ok gotcha. So why is Collin alive?” I asked. “I’m still kind of confused here.” Collin stood up and started pacing. “That night when I told you I had to leave, I wrote you that letter. My boss said that I was going to have to pretend I was dead so that the enemy wouldn’t target my family.” He explained. “So, I left you that note hoping, selfishly, that you wouldn’t get married. Then I came here to Andorra, to track Andrew Smith, the drug dealer.” He opened his mouth as if to go on but I interrupted him. “Wait Andrew was a drug dealer?!” I asked incredulously. I snorted. “Well I sure know how to pick ‘um.” I said.
   Collin smiled “Ya you do. I mean look at me. I’ve been dead for almost a year now, and I’m still lookin’ good!” he said laughing. “Anyway, when I saw you at the airport, I almost blew my cover. I wanted to go over and tell you that I was alive, but that would have totally ruined the whole thing.” He said. “I tracked Andrew and followed him around all day. Imagine my surprise when you started dating him.” He said bitterly. “I wanted to arrest him right there. But since there was no proof I couldn’t arrest him. Then right before he came to your house we got what we needed. Then you walked in.” he said. “I seem to be walking in at all the wrong times.” I said raising my eyebrows. He laughed. “Yes, you did. But we got him in the end. There really isn’t any need for the evidence now. He’s dead.” He said.
   He scratched his chin. “I really need to shave.” He said. “Could you excuse me?” I rolled my eyes. “Ya whatever” I said. He left. “Wow he’s alive!” I said. “This is all a dream isn’t it. I’m going to wake up and it’s going to be a dream.”
   Ruby smoothed down my hair. “Its not a dream, but you should go to sleep now that you know the whole    story.” She said. “Okay.” I said yawning. Then I fell asleep.

Chapter 3

2010-05-17T17:08:00.000-07:00

When we got off the plane, Andrew vanished. I had no idea where he went.

I found my way to the baggage claim. I got my first bag with no problem. As my second bag came around the bend I grabbed at it, but it slipped out of my grasp. Suddenly a pair of hands reached out and grabbed my bag and handed it to me. As I looked up to thank the man, I stopped dead. “Do I know you?” I asked in French. “No” He said in French. “Merci.” I said gesturing toward my bag. “Oui” he said and walked away. I stared after him. I was so sure it was Collin when I first saw him. His eyes were the same striking blue. But as I stared after the stranger I knew it wasn’t Collin. The man’s voice was too low, his hair was brown, and he had a beard. Collin’s voice was higher, his hair was blonde, and he hated beards. I shook my head. I must be really frazzled. Now I’m seeing him everywhere.

Over the next few weeks Andrew helped me move into my apartment. After I was settled we went on a couple dates. One date in particular he asked me if I wanted to go home with him after the date. I knew he wasn’t my religion, so I knew he would ask me eventually. I told him no and explained why. He seemed very interested and on our next date he asked me more questions about my religion. As I saw more of Andrew, I began to see more of the stranger. After a couple of dates, I told Andrew I was going to start dating other people, and not just exclusively him. He seemed relieved, and I started seeing him less and less. As I saw Andrew less and less, I seemed to see the stranger more and more. I called Ruby and Bev every night. When I told them I had been seeing less of Andrew they seemed relieved. They didn’t like him. One day I was at the grocery store, when the stranger approached me. “I haven’t introduced myself. I am Aaron Smith.” He said. “Hi. I’m Kristen Dennin.” I said. “I see you at church sometimes, and I thought I would introduce myself since I live a couple blocks away.” Aaron said. “Well thank you.” I said, and then I had to leave.

The next couple of weeks I looked for him at church. I could often spot him, but when I got close, he was gone. Then all at once I stopped seeing him. He wasn’t at the grocery store or at church anymore. I was starting to feel a little lonely. I had a job at the local Library, but I only got enough money to pay my rent and get groceries. When I had a little bit of extra money, I put it in my “Home Jar”. I called it the “Home Jar” because I was saving up to go back home. By Christmas I had enough for a round trip. I didn’t tell Ruby or Bev about my trip because I wanted it to be a surprise.

When I got to Utah, I got off the plane and rented a car. I drove straight to Ruby’s house where I knew Bev would be. The Wakeworth’s were very generous. Right before I met Collin, both my parents died in a car crash. Collin brought me home, and I was immediately a daughter. Ever since, I have been as much of a part of the family as Collin, and Taylor. When I met Bev, I introduced her to Ruby and Frank right away. Bev’s parents were divorced and didn’t speak to each other. Ever since Bev joined the church, neither of them will speak to her. Ruby adopted her, too. Frank is Ruby’s husband. He’s also the Stake President, so he’s always willing to talk.

As I pulled into the driveway, I noticed how much snow there was. I had forgotten how much snow Utah got. Andorra didn’t get a lot. I pulled my jacket closer around me and rang the doorbell. I heard laughing, and then I heard footsteps. The door opened and there was Ruby. Her mouth opened in shock, and her eyes filled with tears. She motioned me in. I stepped in and gave her a hug. She hugged me back. “Ruby, who’s there?” I heard Bev say. She came around the corner and squealed. I ran and gave her a hug. I heard the door close behind me and I knew I was home.

chapter 2

2010-05-17T17:07:00.000-07:00

    I settled back in my seat. One more flight and I would be in my new home. As I moved around in my seat my purse fell off my lap. I picked it back up. The man sitting next to me picked something up off the ground.

   “Is this yours?” he asked, in a strong accent that I couldn’t place.

   It was the letter. I had forgotten about it. “Yes, thank you,” I said. As I took it from him, I noticed his eyes. They were a vivid green, contrasting his dark skin and hair. He was really cute! He was probably around twenty-seven. “A letter from your husband?” he asked.

   I smiled; I always got asked if I was married. “No. I’m not married.” I said.

   He smiled “I’m Andrew King.” He stuck out his hand.

   I shook it. “I’m Kristen Dennin,” I said, smiling.

   “Such a pretty girl traveling alone? Where are you going?” Andrew asked. “I’m going to Andorra to study French.” I said “Where are you going?” “I’m going to Andorra also. Isn’t that where the plane is going?” he said, laughing. I laughed with him. “You avoided my question. Why are you going to Andorra?” I asked. “For business.” He said vaguely. “What do you do?” I asked, curious. “I do little things in my company, here and there.” Andrew said. I wondered why he was looking so uncomfortable. Before I could ask him any more questions, the flight attendant asked if we wanted anything to drink. I said no, but Andrew asked for some wine. After he drank his wine, he went to sleep. While he was sleeping, I got out my letter and started reading.

   Dear Kristen,

   There is a good chance that I might not come home from my assignment. Before I leave I just wanted to let you know that I love you and if I don’t come back I won’t blame you for going and being happy with someone else. In fact please do. I want you to be happy for the rest of your life with that lucky guy you pick. And just in case you don’t believe me, I promise I won’t come back to haunt you.

   I stopped reading. I couldn’t see the letter anymore, because I was crying so hard. I fished a tissue out of my purse. My fingers brushed against the package that Bev gave me. I took it out and opened it. It was a picture frame. Inside the picture frame was a picture. It was the picture I was going to use for mine and Collin’s engagement picture. We were sitting on a picnic blanket with our food laid out in from of us. I was sitting next to Collin, with my face turned up, returning his kiss. We had been at a Young Single Adults activity. I dried my tears and smiled. Bev had surprised me later by showing me the picture.

   My tissue was soaked. “Here.” Andrew said, handing me a tissue.” “Thanks.” I said. I hadn’t noticed he had woken up. I smiled. “I must look like a mess.” I said. “I think you look beautiful.” Andrew said. That did it. I started crying again. I stood up and went to the bathroom. I glanced at Andrew’s face. He looked bewildered. As I locked myself in the bathroom, I noticed I was still holding the letter. I dried my tears and finished the letter.

I love you with my heart and soul. I hope that we can be together again someday.

Yours Eternally,

Love,

Collin

   My tears were gone. I was suddenly angry at Collin.

   How could he tell me to marry someone else and then tell me he was mine eternally?! Thanks a lot Collin! I shouted in my head. I stopped. I just yelled at a letter. I started laughing. Once I started laughing I couldn’t stop. It became hysteric. I calmed myself down. Wow, my emotions were really out of wack. I guess being on a plane for eighteen hours straight without sleep can do that to you. I took a deep breath, wiped the mascara under my eyes, and walked out of the bathroom.

   I walked back to my seat. Andrew was either asleep again, or else pretending to be. I didn’t blame him. I wouldn’t want to deal with myself either. The captain came over the intercom. “This is your captain speaking. We are about to touch down in Andorra. Please fasten your seatbelts. Thank you.” He said in rapid French. I understood enough French to know to put my seatbelt on.

   As we touched down, Andrew woke up. He looked at me, gauging whether I was going to cry again. “Are you feeling better?” Andrew asked. “Much better, Thank you.” I said. “Thanks again for the tissue.” “No problem” he replied. I gathered my purse. People were starting to leave. Andrew grabbed my arm. “Can I have your number?” he asked. I was a little taken aback. I smiled incredulously. “You want my number after that little emotional outburst?” I asked. He smiled. He was probably relieved I didn’t start crying. “Maybe I can take your mind off some things.” He said. I raised my eyebrows, “Alright, I’m willing to let you try.” I said smiling. I wrote my number on the piece of paper he handed to me. “Here ya go.” I said. Who knows, maybe he could take my mind off Collin.

Chapter 1

2010-04-28T21:19:00.000-07:00

Chapter 1

6 months later

     “Do you have everything?” my roommate Bev asked.

     “Yes I have everything.” Bev had been my roommate since my freshman year in college. She was the one who helped me pull out of my emotional rut 6 months ago. A fiery redhead from England, she has a red hot temper, but a sweet compassionate personality. She was always worrying about something or someone. We were at the airport now, waiting for my flight to France. I was going to study French in Andorra for a little while, to get my mind off of Collin. So far it wasn’t working.

     “Remember, I’ll always send you your stuff if you’ve forgotten anything. But you have to send me letters, and call me, okay?” she said.

     Okay, I will, and don’t worry; I don’t think I forgot anything.” I said patting her on the shoulder.

     She leaned a little closer. “Do you have the ring?” she asked quietly.

     “Yes, and the picture” I said quickly before she could ask.

      She nodded. “Good.”

     Ruby had refused to take the ring back. So I kept it and now I was bringing it with me. Bev pressed a wrapped package into my hand. “Don’t open this until you get on the plane, okay?” she said looking at me intently.

     “I promise.” I said. Before I could say anything more, someone ran into me. I looked down and smiled. Taylor was hugging my legs as tight as she could.

     Taylor is Collin’s five year old little sister. I adore her, because she is the sister I never had. “Krissy, do you have to go?!” she wailed, her eyes wet with tears. I bent down to her level, and wiped the tears off her face.

     “I’m sorry Tay Tay, but I have to go to the big kid world.” I said smiling. She frowned, but then brightened again. “Can I open your letter?” Taylor asked.

     I cocked my head. “What letter?” I asked, confused.

     “Taylor!” said a scolding voice from in front of me. “That was supposed to be a surprise!” Ruby said.

     I stood up, still holding Taylor’s hand. “What letter?” I asked, curious. “Well I was going through Collin’s stuff today, and I found this.” Ruby said holding out a letter. “It had your name on it so I didn’t open it.” It did have my name on it.

     “Thank you” I said.

     Before I could say anything else, a voice came over the intercom. “Flight 26 to France is now boarding.”

     I turned to my friends, and my adopted family. “Thank you, for coming to see me off.” I said, “You don’t know how much I appreciate this.” My eyes were suddenly blurry with tears. Then, before I could hide my tears or walk away, I was engulfed in a giant group hug. Soon, they broke off. Ruby took Taylor’s hand, and I grabbed my suitcase. “Goodbye! I’ll call you guys as often as I can! I love you!” I said and I walked toward the portal. When I got to the portal I turned around and waved. They waved back. I turned back towards the portal, took a deep breath and walked to the plane.

Prolouge

2010-04-22T17:05:00.000-07:00

Prologue

     He knelt on one knee, and pulled out a ring. “Will you, Kristen Dennin, consent to be my lawfully wedded wife from now through eternity?” Collin asked. Tall and blonde with striking blue eyes, Collin looked a little uncomfortable kneeling on the floor. I blinked. “Yes! Yes! Yes!” I said, smiling as I let it sink it. I was going to get married to the man of my dreams! Collin laughed, and with a mischievous glint in his eyes said, “Say it properly please.” I rolled my eyes. “I, Kristen Dennin, consent to being Collin Wakeworth’s lawfully wedded wife for now through eternity.” He smiled and put the ring on my finger and kissed me. Right in the middle of the kiss, his phone rang. He broke off and looked at his phone. He looked at me. “I have to take this. Forgive me?” he asked. “Of course,” I said giggling, “You just asked me to marry you! There will be plenty of time for payback later.” I said, jokes going through my head. He shook his head and laughed. His phone rang again. “I’m going in the kitchen, okay?” he asked, walking. I waved him off. “Ya go ahead. But don’t touch the cake!” I called.

     I stood up and straightened the blanket on the back of the couch. My roommates would be coming home soon. I laughed to myself. Boy, I owed them ice-cream. Collin’s voice was wafting towards me from the kitchen. “When do I leave?” He asked, his voice serious. “Yes, sir.” I heard a snap as his phone shut. I busied myself organizing magazines. He came in and hugged me from behind. “Well, hello to you, too.” I said, turning around and giving him a kiss. He laughed and let go. “I have to leave. Something came up at work. I should be back in a couple of weeks.” His voice was serious. Then his eyes crinkled. “In the meantime, you and my mom had better get working on my wedding.” He said mock serious. I raised my eyebrows. “Your wedding? Huh, I seemed to think you were proposing to me just now, not yourself.” I said, teasing him. He laughed, but then grew serious. “Do you trust me?” Collin asked.

     “Completely” I said.

     “Don’t forget that.”

      He walked over to get his jacket, but paused at the door. “I love you, Kris.” Collin said, smiling.

     “I love you too” I said. He walked out the door.

     Two weeks later, I was looking at a bridal magazine when the phone rang. I ran to the kitchen and picked it up hoping it was Collin. It was his mom, Ruby. She was crying. My mind immediately jumped to conclusions. Was Collin hurt? “He’s dead Kris! He’s dead!” She sobbed.

    “What?” I said, the word freezing my whole body. “Dead?” I asked faintly.

     Ruby just sobbed harder. I sank down on a kitchen chair. My whole body had gone numb. He can’t be dead, we are getting married. We were getting married. A deep breath from the phone pulled me out of my shock. It was Ruby, recovering from her crying.

     “Are you still there, dear?” she asked.

     “Ya” I said. “I have to go, the pizza man is here.” We both knew it was a lie, but she let it go.

     “You’re always welcome in our home, Kristen.”

     “I know” I said and hung up.

     After I had said goodbye to Ruby, I stood up and walked down the hall to my room. On top of my dresser was the velvet box that the ring had come in. I took the ring off my finger, carefully put it in the box, then put it in my sock drawer, out of sight. Then I collapsed on my bed and cried.

Goose girl by Shanon Hale

2010-02-15T13:31:00.000-08:00

Synopsis: She was born with her eyes closed and a word on her tongue, a word she could not taste. Her name was Anidori-Kiladra Talianna Isilee, Crown Princess of Kildenree, and she spent the first years of her life listening to her aunt’s stories and learning the language of the birds, especially the swans. And when she was older, she watched as a colt was born, and she heard the first word on his tongue, his name, Falada

My rating: this is such a great book and i loved it!! absolutlky loved it :) Pg in movierationg and again i love it!!!

Yearbook by Allyson B. Condie

2010-01-03T14:30:00.000-08:00

It was the first day of school at Lakeview High, and everyone was afraid of something. Michaela Choi was afraid that Ethan Beck was never going to ask her out on a date.

Andrea Beck was afraid that someone would find her weak spot, the chink in her armor. She was afraid of knowing what it was herself.

Principal Downing was afraid she was going to die.

Julie Reid was afraid that no one would notice her. She was also afraid that someone would. And there was a deeper, unnamed fear inside her that she couldn't escape — a fear that she was nothing and no one. . .

this is a book that made me happy, cry, and build my testimony, but at the same time was interesting :) it was great I give this book 5 stars :)

The Camel Club by David Baldacci

2009-10-01T17:26:00.000-07:00

Synopsis:Welcome to The Camel Club

Existing at the fringes of Washington, D.C., the Club consists of four eccentric members. Led by a mysterious man known as "Oliver Stone," they study conspiracy theories, current events, and the machinations of government to discover the 'truth' behind the country's actions. Their efforts bear little fruit--until the group witnesses a shocking murder...and become embroiled in an astounding, far-reaching conspiracy. Not the Club must join forces with a Secret Service agent to confront one of the most chilling spectacles ever to take place on American soil--and event that may trigger theultimate war between two different worlds. And all that stands in the way of this apocalypse is five unexpected heroes.
My rating: I really liked this book truly I did! some things I couldn't understand cuz they were like really big government terms, and its definitly not for kids, but ya its really good I really liked it!

Methods of Madness by Stephanie Black

2009-10-01T17:20:00.000-07:00

Synopsis:It's been three years since the terrible night Emily Ramsey suffered a double tragedy-the death of her sister and the disappearance of her fiance. She deserves another chance at happiness and gentle, adorable Zach Sullivan is the perfect man to mend her shattered heart. But from the moment Emily opens the hand-carved box holding a glittering diamond solitaire, she's seized by an unshakable fear: she'sgoing to lose Zach.

That's exactly what Monica, Zach's ex-girlfiend, is banking on. Bitter with envy, Monica will stop at nothing to sabotage Zach and Emily's romance. A troubling note shows up in Emily's mailbox, fanning the flames of suspicion. A bloody photograph sends her reeling. But when someone is brutally murdered, will Emily be able to ecape suspicion and the possiblity that she might be next?
My rating: ok I shall not tell a lie! this book scared me! its like a horror movie inside my mind! wow I was glad when it was over! but it was really good....once I was done! lol annika and chloe were saying that it was SOO intense, ya sure

Dragon Heir by Cinda Williams Chima

2009-10-01T17:16:00.000-07:00

Synopsis:r centuries, wizards have avoided making war on each other for fear of waking the legendary dragon that sleeps at Raven’s Ghyll. But it is a new age. The patriarch Nicodemus Snowbeard is rapidly failing. The Wizard Houses of the Red and White Rose have united against Claude D’Orsay, Master of Games and keeper of the Dragonhold. D’Orsay and his sadistic son Devereaux seem poised to seize control of all of the magical guilds. But everything changes during a raid on the Ghyll, when the magical stone called the Dragonheart is stolen. It is rumored to be both a deadly weapon and the source of power for all the magical guilds.

In Britain and in Trinity, Jason Haley battles his own demons as he seeks revenge against those who murdered his father. Seph McCauley assumes more and more responsibility as he struggles to keep the Roses at bay. The warriors Jack Swift and Ellen Stephenson train for a battle that they hope never comes, while their Anaweir friends Will and Fitch contribute their technical knowledge to the defense of the Sanctuary.

Over Seph’s objections, the moody and mysterious Madison Moss has gone home to the hills she loves and hates. She sees in the coming battle the destruction of everything she cares about. But it is becoming increasingly clear that Madison may hold the key to the survival of the Sanctuary at Trinity, if the Weirguilds can win her support before she’s found and taken by the other side.
My rating: well I liked this book also but one thing that I didn't like was that Hastings and Seph are just so powerful! anyway dont let me taint your opinion! loveyou!

Wizard Heir by Cindy Williams Chima

2009-10-01T17:09:00.000-07:00

Synopsis:Sixteen-year-old Seph McCauley has spent the past three years getting kicked out of one exclusive private school after another. And it's not his attitude that's the problem. It's the trail of magical accidents--lately, disasters--that follow in his wake. Seph is a wizard, orphaned and untrained--and his powers are escalating out of control.
After causing a tragic fire at an after-hours party, Seph is sent to the Havens, a secluded boys' school on the coast of Maine. At first, it seems like the answer to his prayers. Gregory Leicester, the headmaster, promises to train Seph in magic and initiate him into his mysterious order of wizards. But Seph's enthusiasm dampens when he learns that training comes at a steep cost, and that Leicester plans to use his students' powers to serve his own dangerous agenda.
my rating: good book;) I kinda liked the first book better but this one was just so new and it was different but it was good :)

Warrior Heir by Cindy Williams Chima

2009-09-25T15:47:00.000-07:00

synopsis:Before he knew about the Roses, fourteen-year-old Jack lived an unremarkable life in the small Ohio town of Trinity. Only the medicine he has to take daily and the thick scar above his heart set him apart from the other high-schoolers. Then one day Jack skips his medicine. Suddenly, he is stronger, fiercer, and more confident than ever before. And it feels great - until he loses control of his own strength and nearly kills another player during soccer team tryouts. Soon, Jack learns the startling truth about himself: he is Weirlind - part of an underground society of magical people who live among us. At the head of this magical society sit the feuding houses of the Red Rose and the White Rose, whose power is determined by playing The Game - a magical tournament in which each house sponsors a warrior to fight to the death. The winning house rules the Weir. As if his bizarre magical heritage isn't enough, Jack finds out that he's not just another member of Weirlind - he's one of the last of the warriors - at a time when both houses are scouting for a player. Jack's performance on the soccer field has alerted the entire magical community to the fact that he's in Trinity. And until one of the houses is declared Jack's official sponsor, there are no limits to what they'll do to get Jack to fight for them. . . .
My rating: ok I LOVE this book! 5 Stars! it doesn't use any language. it mightve said omg once but I can't remember! its super intense and keeps you guessing! I love it! I suggest it!!

The Case of the Missing Marquess: An Enola Holmes Mystery (Book 1) by Nancy Springer

2009-07-09T09:35:00.000-07:00

Synopsis:When Enola Holmes, the much younger sister of detective Sherlock Holmes, discovers her mother has disappeared—on her 14th birthday nonetheless—she knows she alone can find her. Disguising herself as a grieving widow, Enola sets out to the heart of London to uncover her mother's whereabouts—but not even the last name Holmes can prepare her for what awaits. Suddenly involved in the kidnapping of the young Marquess of Basilwether, Enola must escape murderous villains, free the spoiled Marquess, and perhaps hardest of all, elude her shrewd older brother—all while collecting clues to her mother's disappearance!
rating: I liked this it was interesting and it was a girl my age! it was just inspiring! it was Pg it was good!!

Dusssie by Nancy Springer

2009-07-09T09:26:00.000-07:00

Synopsis:Dusie always knew puberty was going to be confusing, but she never realized it was going to be catastrophic—until she wakes up one morning to find that her hair has turned into a writhing mass of slithering snakes and discovers the real truth about her family: her mother is a Gorgon—right out of Greek mythology—and she was named after her mother’s younger sister, Medusa. Her mother had hoped that Dusie’s being half-mortal would protect her from inheriting the family curse.
Still reeling from this revelation, Dusie tries to keep her snakes under wraps. But after a boy she likes in school almost exposes her, she discovers another family secret—just one look from Dusie’s snakes has the power to send someone right into his own personal Stone Age. Talk about “if looks could kill”!
Dusie better figure out how to control her snakes and her rage, and find a way to get her life back—before anything else disastrous happens.
My rating: I really liked this book, like truly it was a good book its probably pg just cuz it talks about puberty a little but ya I really liked it!

Little Lady and the Prince

2009-07-09T09:17:00.000-07:00

Synopsis:irrepressible Melissa is hired to reform a playboy prince -- and finds she could get used to the royal treatment.Making plans for her wedding to American fiancé Jonathan Riley, who now runs a prestigious Parisian real estate company, Melissa agrees to do a favor for her beloved grandmother: transform the notorious Prince Nicolas von Helsing-Alexandros into a proper gentleman for the sake of preserving a family inheritance. Even possessive Jonathan agrees it's a great opportunity to make social connections. But taming a prince might prove too big a professional challenge for Melissa when she's confronting so many seismic changes in her own personal life. Jonathan needs her in Paris. Her sister Emery's newborn son needs a christening ceremony, as well as a proper name. Emery herself needs Melissa -- to protect her from their bulldog nanny who's returned to do much more than babysit. Most unsettling of all, Nelson needs her to find him a new flatmate because she'll be moving out soon. Balancing all this with late-night dinners, polo matches, and a Mediterranean cruise with Prince Nicky, who is as charming as he is exasperating, suddenly has bride-to-be Melissa dreaming of a fairy-tale ending -- and not the one she expected!
My rating: I really liked this book! it has an unexpected ending but I loved it alot!!! ok im gonna give one thing away...... jonathan is a jerk towards the end I got really really mad at him! ugh he made my blood boil!! let me tell you! oh well anyway i loved the ending so youll see..... if you ever read it!I'm rating it what I rated the other ones... (i can't remember what that is at the moment so your gonna have to look yourself) ;)

Behold the Man by Gerald N Lund

2009-06-26T13:12:00.000-07:00

Synopsis: Jesus of Nazareth has been preaching in Judea for three years and has gathered many followers with his teachings and miracles. But he has also made enemies among the rulers in Jerusalem, who fear his power and his influence and who have conspired to put an end to him by whatever means possible. Mordechai ben Uzziel's life couldn't be any worse. His daughter, Miriam, has vanished from Rome, spirited away by none other than his old nemesis — Simeon ben David. Meanwhile, Mordechai's credibility with the Sanhedrin is jeopardized when the council learns that his own daughter has become a disciple of this so-called Messiah. Simeon ben David's life couldn't be any better. After struggling to follow the Savior and to testify of his knowledge that Jesus is the Son of God, Simeon has found peace and joy in following the Master. More than that, he has found love; he and Miriam will be betrothed before the feast of Hanukkah. The family of David ben Joseph continues to follow Jesus, though the Savior's teachings now carry an undercurrent of sorrow and unsettling prophecy. And despite increasing danger, Jesus' ministry draws him inexorably toward Jerusalem. Along the way, Jesus performs miracles of astounding power; healing a woman afflicted for almost two decades, restoring sight to a man born blind, and raising Lazarus after four days in the grave. But not everyone is thrilled to hear Jesus declare, "I am the light of the world; I am the bread of life" during the Feast of the Tabernacles. As the end of Jesus' ministry and his life approaches, the lines are swiftly and solidly drawn between those who will stand for Jesus and those who will tear him down. The final volume of The Kingdom and the Crown series, , details the last week of Jesus' life his triumphal entry into Jerusalem, the spiritually fulfilling Last Supper, and the crowning achievement of the atonement that begins in the Garden of Gethsemane and culminates in the Garden Tomb. In The Kingdom and the Crown trilogy, Gerald N. Lund has given us the chance to behold the man known as Jesus of Nazareth, to experience what it must have been like to walk and talk with the Master.

My rating: this is the 3rd and last book of this series it was good, I liked it. I have to rate it 18 and up cuz its hard to stomach ;)

Come unto Me by Gerald N Lund

2009-06-26T13:05:00.000-07:00

Synopsis:A dramatic account of Christ's ministry, as seen through the eyes of those who would follow him. In Come Unto Me, volume 2 of the bestselling series The Kingdom and the Crown, Simeon of Capernaum wrestles with how to undo the damage wrought by his reluctant conversion to a man called Jesus of Nazareth. His determination to follow the teachings of the Master has cost the life of one friend and sent three others to a Roman prison to await execution. How can he stay true to the teachings of Jesus, which require that he love his enemies, and yet deliver the friends who face death because of him? A similar dilemma faces Miriam of Jerusalem. Her father, along with the other leaders of the powerful Sanhedrin, are determined to stamp out the growing popularity of this itinerant preacher from Nazareth. But Miriam too has found Jesus to be far more than a mere man, and this poses a terrible choice for her--will she follow family or faith? From the Galilee to Jerusalem to the great city of Rome, Come Unto Me continues the story of the people whose lives are forever changed by the teachings of a simple carpenter from Nazareth. Award-winning author Gerald N. Lund masterfully blends the biblical account of the greatest story ever told with unforgettable fictional characters in this dramatic epic.

My rating: i liked this book its the 2nd book in the series, and again I must rate it 18 and up cuz even I had trouble stomaching it it took me a long time to read

Fishers of Men by Gerald N Lund

2009-06-26T12:54:00.000-07:00

Synopsis:In an ancient land in a time foretold by prophets, a babe was born beneath a shining star. Thirty years later, Jesus of Nazareth began teaching a message of hope, peace, and love. He claimed to be the Son of God, and his words - and his life - would change the world. In Fishers of Men, the first volume in the new series The Kingdom and the Crown, best-selling author Gerald N. Lund transports us to the days of Christ's mortal ministry and invites us to experience the emotions and events of those extraordinary times. Reports of Jesus of Nazareth have reached the ears of David ben Joseph, a merchant in Capernaum, who has waited and watched for the Messiah ever since a special, starlit night thirty years ago. He and his family decide to see for themselves whether or not the rumors are true and journey to hear Jesus. Though David is quick to accept Jesus as the Messiah, the rest of his family is more cautious. His wife, Deborah, and his son, Simeon, leaders in the rebellious Zealot movement, look for a Messiah that will crush the Romans with power and the sword, not one preaching a message of love and forgiveness. Meanwhile, reports of Jesus have reached into the very heart of Jerusalem, and both the powerful Sadducee Mordechai ben Uzziel and the Pharisee Azariah are growing uneasy with the news. Though they hold opposing political views, both agree that something must be done to stop this man from Nazareth before he gets out of hand. However, in Mordechai's own household the influence of the carpenter from Nazareth begins to create conflict. Fishers of Men is a sweeping epic filled with memorable characters who bring to life an extraordinary time in the history of the world. It is a story about the importance of family, the power of faith, the miracle of forgiveness, and the strength needed to follow your heart.

My Rating: I liked this book. its during Jesus's times and it helped me understand better, even though it is fiction. so i really enjoyed this book :) I do have to rate it 18 and up because it was even hard for me to stomach so there you go the plot was great I really liked it

Place of Refuge by David G Woolley

2009-06-26T12:50:00.000-07:00

Synopsis:It is six centuries before Jesus of Nazareth will be born, and Jerusalem is in turmoil. After the conflict with Babylon escalates, the ruling class of Judah threatens any who dare opposes their tenuous power. The Holy City is destined for destruction. But amid the mayhem, two prophets of God come forth -- Lehi and Ezekiel. However, both are in danger of losing their life. Zadock, Chief Elder of the Jews and Laban, Captain of the Guard, desparately seek to eleminate all voices of opposition as they attempt to seize broader power. Lehi and his family have narrowly escaped from the corrupt city into the Judean wilderness, where the patriarch must contend not only with enemies pursuing them through an unforgiving land, but also with his two defiant sons. Meanwhile, Ezekiel has been imprisoned on false charges of inciting a tax revolt. He knows he must escape if the prophecies he has received are to be fulfilled. An epic tale of loyalty and betrayal, strength and faith, Volume Three of this richly written saga sweeps the reader back through time and vividly brings to life the trials and triumphs of important scriptural figures as they venture toward a Promised Land.

My Rating: I really liked this book, it is the 3rd book in the Promised Land series. again i must rate this 16 yr olds and those who can stomach a good book cuz thats just how it is :)

THe Power of Deliverance by David G Woolley

2009-06-26T12:37:00.000-07:00

Synopsis:600 B.C. A man of God stands condemned. The prophet Uriah is on trial for treason, having intercepted sensitive military letters from Captain Laban. If Laban and the elders in the Jerusalem City Council have their way, Uriah, and the secrets that could prove to be Laban's undoing, will be forever silenced. Against such powerful odds, there remains but one person who can save Uriah: the prophet Lehi--but only at the risk of his own life, and the lives of his family members. Join this epic series as Lehi, Nephi, and other Book of Mormon characters come to life. The Power of Deliverance, Volume 2 in the Promised Land series, is a fast-paced, triumphant sequel to the best-selling novel, Pillar of Fire. You Will Never Read the Book of Mormon the Same Way Again!

My Rating: I really liked this book its the second one in the Promised land series, and it long but itsabout the book of mormon and I really liked it. again I must rate it to 16 yr old and those who can stomach a big book ;)

Pillar of Fire by David G Wooley

2009-06-26T12:24:00.000-07:00

Synopsis:A Sweeping Epic about the Incredible Beginnings of the Book of Mormon 601 B.C. The Babylonians have come and gone, leaving Jerusalem plundered, weak, and broken. The power-hungry Elders in the city council have banished and murdered the prophets. Anyone foolish enough to voice their support for the prophets has been labeled a "Rekhabite," a dissenter, a traitor—worthy of death. In the midst of this turmoil, Jonathan the blacksmith has moved his family from Sidon to Jerusalem, bringing with him knowledge of the new alloy, steel. Torn between heeding his wife's warnings and a fear of not providing for his family, Jonathan becomes a pawn in the hands of the Elders and Laban, the captain of the guard. Aaron, Jonathan’s crippled son, receives a blessing and a promise of healing, and is told that he will save the life of a prophet. When he is hired by the oil-merchant Lehi, Aaron’s life changes forever. So begins the first volume of The Promised Land series — a sweeping epic, telling of the incredible beginnings of the Book of Mormon.

My Rating: I dont know about you guys but I love reading about the book of mormon:) and this was no exception it was a fantasticly writtten book and I really really loved it!!! it definitly is one of my favorites:) this is a long book and more adult fiction so I would have to say that 16 and up should read it ( exception if you can tolerate long books :))

Freefall by Traci Hunter Abramson

2009-06-26T12:19:00.000-07:00

synopsis:Lieutenant Brent Miller arrived in the Middle East with one objective — get seven hostages out of a hostile country. The plan almost worked. But now he has been left behind — with one of the hostages. It's up to Brent to get Amy Whitmore, an LDS Senator's daughter, across miles of desert to safety. What he doesn't know is that to survive, he needs her as much as she needs him.

My Rating: I loved this book!!! I think its my favorite in the series along side Royal Target. I really liked it!!! loved it!!! mature 14yr old who can handle kissing :)

Deep End by Traci Hunter Abramson

2009-06-10T14:34:00.000-07:00

synopsis:Matt's hands balled in frustration. . . . He couldn't even acknowledge that he knew the dark-haired beauty down the street-much less that he was married to her. . . . He had walked into this marriage knowing full well that he would be married to a woman in the Witness Protection Program, and that they would have to spend their first year of marriage pretending they didn't know each other. But little do CJ and Matt know the extent of the danger and loneliness that will haunt their lives. A world-class swimmer with Olympic aspirations, CJ faces overwhelming odds that threaten to drown all her hopes and dreams. Will the deep end prove to be a dead end for CJ and Matt?

My rating: I really liked this book. to get it you really have to read the first two this is the 3rd one in the series I believe. I think 14 year olds would enjoy this

Little Lady Agency: big apple by hester brown

2009-06-10T14:30:00.000-07:00

Synopsis:With the Little Lady Agency doing a booming business back home, Melissa joins her dashing American boyfriend, Jonathan Riley, for an extended holiday in Manhattan. But she's soon out of her depth among Jonathan's hard-charging friends and his interfering ex-wife. And while she's all for shopping and sight-seeing, a covert work opportunity is an irresistible temptation -- a project that soon lands her in the tabloids! Now, a hilarious and heartbreaking chain of events may force Melissa to choose between the man she loves and the unique man-handling business into which she has poured her heart and soul....

My rating: I loved this book!! its the second one out of 3 and I really enjoyed the books I'm reading the 3rd one right now! anyway! I loved it! I rate it pg13 and anyone that is a mature 14 year old cn read it!

The Little Lady Agency by Hester Browne

2009-05-21T21:02:00.000-07:00

Synopsis:Melissa Romney-Jones can bake a perfect sponge cake, type her little heart out, and plan a party blindfolded. But none of that has helped her get far in life or in love. When she gets fired -- again -- she decides to market her impeccable social skills to single men. To avoid embarrassing her father, a Member of Parliament, Melissa dons a blond wig and becomes Honey, a no-nonsense bombshell who helps clueless bachelors shop, entertain, and navigate social minefields. She even attends parties if a client needs a "date." But when a dashing American starts to request Honey's services on a regular basis, it's only a matter of time before Honey's and Melissa's worlds collide....

My Rating: I thought this was a great book!! I got sucked in!! :) haha this is probably PG 13 actually definitly mabye. it is for more mature people it is young adult fiction so there ya go!! anyway I loved the book!!

Off season by Catherine Gilbert Murdock (the sequal to dairy queen)

2009-05-14T20:13:00.000-07:00

Synopsis:Life is looking up for D.J. Schwenk. She’s in eleventh grade, finally. After a rocky summer, she’s reconnecting in a big way with her best friend, Amber. She’s got kind of a thing going with Brian Nelson, who’s cute and popular and smart but seems to like her anyway. And then there’s the fact she’s starting for the Red Bend High School football team—the first girl linebacker in northern Wisconsin, probably. Which just shows you can’t predict the future. As autumn progresses, D.J. struggles to understand Amber, Schwenk Farm, her relationship with Brian, and most of all her family. As a whole herd of trouble comes her way, she discovers she’s a lot stronger than she—or anyone—ever thought.This hilarious, heartbreaking and triumphant sequel to the critically acclaimed Dairy Queen takes D.J. and all the Schwenks from Labor Day to a Thanksgiving football game that you will never forget.

My Rating: this was just as good as the first book! sometimes the sequals get washed up but I really liked this book! pg 13 again because of things little kids wouldn't understand and for mature 14 year olds and up ;)

Dairy Queen by Catherine Gilbert Murdock

2009-05-14T19:55:00.000-07:00

synopsis:When you don’t talk, there’s a lot of stuff that ends up not getting said.Harsh words indeed, from Brian Nelson of all people. But, D. J. can’t help admitting, maybe he’s right.When you don’t talk, there’s a lot of stuff that ends up not getting said.Stuff like why her best friend, Amber, isn’t so friendly anymore. Or why her little brother, Curtis, never opens his mouth. Why her mom has two jobs and a big secret. Why her college-football-star brothers won’t even call home. Why her dad would go ballistic if she tried out for the high school football team herself. And why Brian is so, so out of her league.When you don’t talk, there’s a lot of stuff that ends up not getting said.Welcome to the summer that fifteen-year-old D. J. Schwenk of Red Bend, Wisconsin, learns to talk, and ends up having an awful lot of stuff to say.

My Rating: I loved this book! it was a great book and I fell in love with it as i read!! it is very well written and its got a great storyline! something you wouldn't expect. I rate it about pg 13 for some things that little kids would not know. for mature 14yr olds and up :)

P.S. : I actually have read this book before i'm starting to do some of my old books cuz my library stack is a little dried up at the moment so bear with me!! thanks for reading :)

Dragon Slippers by Jessica Day George

2009-05-12T20:30:00.000-07:00

Synopsis: She wanted dragon gold.
She got a pair of shoes.
Many stories tell of damsels in distress, who are rescued from the clutches of fire-breathing dragons by knights in shining armor, and swept off to live happily ever after.
This is not one of those stories.
True, when Creel’s aunt suggests sacrificing her to the local dragon, it is with the hope that the knight will marry Creel and that everyone (aunt and family included) will benefit handsomely. Yet it’s Creel who talks her way out of the dragon’s clutches. And it’s Creel who walks for days on end to seek her fortune in the king’s city with only a bit of embroidery thread and a strange pair of slippers in her possession.
But even Creel could not have guessed the outcome of this tale. For in a country on the verge of war, Creel unknowingly possesses not just any pair of shoes, but a tool that could be used to save her kingdom…or destroy it.
My rating: I loved this book i reccomend it to 10 and up. I would rate this pg
Fun Fact: I met this Author, she is the cutest person ever! if you want to know about her other books they are Dragon flight, princess of the midnight ball, sun moon ice and snow, and soon to be coming Dragon Spear. These are all GREAT books and I suggest them to everyone! so contact Jessica Day George you can look on her site at, jessicadaygeorge.com Have fun!!

Undercurrents by Traci Hunter Abramson

2009-04-30T14:27:00.000-07:00

synopsis: Shaye Kendall, an Olympic-bound swimmer, has been in the witness protection program ever since she witnessed her boyfriend's murder. She now has a new name, a new life, and strict orders not to reveal her secret.
But fitting into a community is hard when you can't tell people anything about yourself. When she learns that one of her new friends, Matt Whitmore, is LDS, she can't even tell him that she's a Mormon too. She doesn't dare get involved. The fact that Matt's father is a high-profile senator could give her the kind of exposure she doesn't need. How can you fall in love when you can never reveal who you really are?
But when someone almost takes her life, Shaye recognizes that whoever is after her knows exactly who and where she is. Can she trust Matt to help her? Can she trust his family?

my onpinion: I loved this book!! I think it is amazing!! and I just found out that this is the beginning of a series that includes lockdown. lockdown is actually the most recent book. I recamend this to all!! it was fantasticly written and I really loved it!!

rating: I would say mature 14 yearolds and up! and rob pg 13 because of some things that are more grown up. like shooting, and kissing ;)

Lockdown by Traci Hunter Abramson

2009-04-25T17:34:00.000-07:00

Synopsis: Only twice had she set foor inside the building since the massacre. the first time had been just a month after the tradegy..The second time she had returned to the scene of the crime had been two days ago when she forced herself to check on the temporary office for the SEAL team... The counselor she had seen in the months after tha shooting had encouraged her to face her fears, but now... Riley wan't sure she was reacy to face them after all.

Caught up in a hostage situation that is hauntingly familiar, Riley Palmetta once more finds her life hanging in the balance. What starts out as a well-organized and highly intensive training course for the prevention of random acts of terror quickly turns into a real-life nightmare of suspense and intrigue that will test the faith and finely-honed skills fo Tristan Crowther and his elite group of LDS navy SEALS. For Crowther , this is not only a race to save lives; it is a deeply personal mission that moves relentlessly toward an irreversibe crisis. And life- as well as love_ is on the line.

My opinion: I loved this bok with a passion!!! it was amazing!! btw TRISTAN IS MINE!! I wont spoil anything for all of you who are dying to read this. I will give you a quick summery in my own words now though. Riley Palmetta was one of three people that survived a school shooting. That was two years years ago. (in the book) she is still tramatized by it. she hasn't dated someone since it happened. She doesn't know if she can bear to bear the drama that comees with dating a Navy SEAL/ Tristan Crwther knows Riley is hiding something. But what? can he get close enough to find out, without falling in love with her?

My rating: i rate this 4 and 1/2 stars, because it was a great book, but not as good as her other ones. I also rate it PG 13 for adult language in some parts. I would say this is for about 14 & up.

Al Capone does my shirts

2009-04-23T20:51:00.000-07:00

synopsis (what it says on the back): Murderers, Mob bosses, and convicts.... teses guys are not your average neighbors.
not unless you live on Alcatraz. it's 1935 and twelve-year-old Moose Flanagan and his family have just moved to the infamous island that's home to criminals like notorious escapee Roy Gardener, Machine Gun Kelly, and of course Al Capone. But that's just the beginning of Mooses's troubles because on Alcatrez the kids are all cowed by the clever danger-loving daughter of the warden, Piper Williams. Now Moose has to try to fit in at his new school, avoid getting caught up in one of Piper's countless schemes, and keep an eye on his sister, Natalie, whos not like other kids. All moose wants to do is protect Natalie, Live up to his parents' expevtations, and stay out of trouble. But on Alcatraz, trouble is never very far away.
My opinion: I think that this is a great book. its very well written and it portrays what it was like to have a sister with autism back in the 30's when nobody knew what it was or what to do about it. It also portrays how hard it is to fit in somewhere, no matter how hard you try. I suggest this book to 11-up.
rating: i would probably give it 3 stars for a little bit of an easier read.
i would also rate it pg because of some things that can be a little confusing to little people.
thanks for reading :)