YA Review - Summer State of Mind by Jen Calonita

Summer State of  Mind by Jen Calonita

Summer has finally arrived and fifteen-year-old Harper McCallister intends to spend her days at the mall shopping or by the pool at her country club. But after receiving her latest heart-stopping credit card bill, Harper's parents makes other plans, and ship her off to camp.

Suddenly, the clueless yet ever-popular Harper is the new girl at the bottom of a social ladder she can't climb in wedge sandals and expensive clothes. She seems to be winning over super-cute camp "Lifer" Ethan, though, and if she can manage to make a few friends--and stay out of trouble--she just might find a whole new summer state of mind.

A fresh and funny summer-camp companion novel to Jen Calonita's hit Sleepaway Girls. (Goodreads)

A fun, light YA Contemporary read just in time for the spring/summer season - Summer State of Mind will definitely please fans of Calonita's as well as be a great choice for others who enjoy YA Contemporary. This Contemp YA novel takes place at a sleep away camp over summer break, and explores teenage identity, fitting in, and friendships.

Highlights

Having already read Calonita's Belles series, I was immediately interested when I heard she had a new offering available and I went and ordered it from Amazon right away. Having only ever heard of Calonita in reference to her Belles series, I wasn't aware until after I read the book that this is technically the second in the Whispering Pines series. However, if you haven't yet read the first book have no fear - this one reads like a stand-alone and from what I've been told features mostly new characters and an independent plot. I always enjoy a "series" where each book might take place in the same world, and overlap characters, but each can stand as an independent read - so right away that gets points from me.

I really enjoyed the read - it was just what I was looking for: light, fun, quick, and summer-y. Having never been a summer sleep away camp attendee (the most I've ever done was Girl Scout camps) - I can say the book paints a pretty fantastic picture - I definitely wanted to go back and do a summer session in high school at Whispering Pines! The author does a great job of making it sound pretty fantastic, even with a main character who dislikes the outdoors, camping, bugs, anything athletic, etc. - and as a girl who isn't overly athletic myself, it still sounded fun!

I think what stood out for me the most while I was reading (and makes me want to force my high school aged little sis to read this) would be the topics that are the focus of the book. The story's central themes involve friendship, identity, fitting in, and learning what you value. I enjoyed that the main character, Harper, is on a journey (whether she realizes and/or wants to be) of self-discovery and growth. Harper starts off pretty annoying, she has some clearly redeeming qualities (you can tell her hearts in the right place), however she is pretty superficial and waaaay to focused on all the wrong things.

I enjoyed watching Harper progress and learn to adapt to new experiences, try new things, and begin to find herself in the process. It was nice to watch her develop a friendship with Lina at camp, and see how their friendship grows and what Harper learns about being a friend from this. It was also refreshing to read a YA Contemp where the primary focus was not on the romance, although romance did play a small role as well.

Wishes

Generally, I really enjoyed this read and it fit with what I was expecting and looking for. A few wishes I might have had about the book would have to be around Kate and Margo (Harper's friends from home). I really didn't like Kate (for the entire book!), but Margo I felt was more like Harper: likable if given a push away from people like Kate. I wish we had gotten more closer around what Harper's next move was in terms of her 'friendships' with Margo and Kate and how the realizations she had made at camp would impact her at home. It would have been nice to have some closure around that situation.

***

Overall, I'd say it's a great summer read and I would definitely recommend picking it up if you're looking for a fun beach read. I know I'll definitely be looking into this other book that takes place at Whispering Pines.

Recommendations:

The Art of Lainey - Paula Stokes

Belles - Jen Calonita

My Life Next Door - Huntley Fitzpatrick

Biggest Flirts - Jennifer Echols

Rating:  

4 out of 5 Doxies - Definitely worth a read, an author you can count on for a satisfying read!

Top Ten Tuesday - Covers That Would Work As Art (May 6)

Top Ten Tuesdays is a great weekly meme hosted by The Broke and the Bookish, where you get to share fun book related topic top ten lists. It is also another great meme for finding great new books, authors and blogs! 

This week is 

Top Ten Book Covers I'd Frame As Pieces of Art


Ok, so I'm kinda of extending my first choice to be a trilogy of books, but I think all three would make great art pieces...

How about you: what covers did you choose as art worthy?

 Please feel free to comment and link up so I can visit your Top Ten!

Jenn

 Tale of Two Doxies

www.taleoftwodoxies.blogspot.com

Review - Once Upon A Prince by Rachel Hauck

Once Upon A Prince by Rachel Hauck

Once Upon a Prince, the first novel in the Royal Wedding series by bestselling author Rachel Hauck, treats you to a modern-day fairy tale.

Susanna Truitt never dreamed of a great romance or being treated like a princess---just to marry the man she has loved for twelve years. But life isn't going according to plan. When her high-school-sweetheart-turned-Marine-officer breaks up instead of proposing, Susanna scrambles to rebuild her life.

The last thing Prince Nathaniel expects to find on his American holiday to St. Simon's Island is the queen of his heart. A prince has duties, and his family's tense political situation has chosen his bride for him. When Prince Nathaniel comes to Susanna's aid under the fabled Lover's Oak, he is blindsided by love.

Their lives are worlds apart. He's a royal prince. She's a ordinary girl. But everything changes when Susanna receives an invitation to Nathaniel's coronation. It's the ultimate choice. His kingdom or her heart? God's will or their own? (Goodreads)

***

This was my first read by the author, Rachel Hauck, but I did find it an enjoyable read. This book is a Christian Romance novel, that happened to be one of the Amazon Kindle Daily Deals. Right away I loved the cover, I thought it looked romantic, modern day fairy tale-esque. When I read the summary, it definitely appealed to me, as it was essentially a modern day fairy tale reminiscent of Cinderella. I think fans of Rachel H other works, of overt Christian Romances, and of Contemporary Fairy Tale type reads will enjoy this one.

Highlights

The story was a light, fun, whimsical read - it definitely delivered in the modern day fairy tale department and of course in the happy ending. The story was well-written and engaging, although at times it could get a bit detail heavy. I found the characters to overall be realistic, flawed and relatable. I found it refreshing to find a heroine who was both strong and weak at the same time. It was nice to see a character who didn't have it all figured out, and one who had to struggle when the "plan" didn't work out. I think there are many out there who can relate to Susanna's journey: coming from a less than solid or predictable childhood and how that effects our conscious/unconscious choices and needs as an adult. Not everyone has dealt with these issues, and they can be difficult to face even as an adult.

The story itself flowed nicely and was a nice, clean, sweet romance. I enjoyed the fairy tale elements, and the modern setting. I also really loved the detail the author used in carefully crafting the kingdom of Brighton - nice touches of different European influences to create the country/culture. The story reminded me a bit of the movie The Prince and Me, which I've always enjoyed, and definitely held elements of a retelling of Cinderella as well.

Wishes

There were a few things I might have wished for this novel. One would have to be Susanna and Adam's relationship, for a couple who had been together so long - I would have preferred a little bit more of something. Of fight, or back-and-forth, not such easy acceptance I suppose since they were supposed to have been in love and together for so long. I just would have preferred the presence of more emotion around the whole issue.

Aurora was an interesting piece to the novel, I liked her and I didn't. As a "fairy godmother" type figure, it worked, but I also found so of her seemingly incoherent, "prophetic"-type moments off-putting. Overall, I probably would have found the story just as enjoyable without her presence as with. In this same vein, while I enjoyed the story overall and I do not mind Christian novels, at times it could be a bit overt and/or "preachy" which I know can be off-putting. So for those who prefer the more subtle Christian integration, might not enjoy that aspect as much.

Overall, I found the story to be a light, easy and satisfying read. I finished quickly and look forward to reading the next book in the series and finding out what becomes of Brighton.

Recommendations:

For more Christian Romance try…

The Princess by Lori Wick

The Hawk and the Jewel by Lori Wick

The Convenient Groom by Denise Hunter

For more Contemporary, Fairy-Tale-esque Romance try…

The Runaway Princess by Hester Browne

Rating:

 3 out of 5 Doxies - Really enjoyed it, go give it a read now!

Review - My Life Next Door by Huntley Fitzpatrick

My Life Next Door by Huntley Fitzpatrick

"One thing my mother never knew, and would disapprove of most of all, was that I watched the Garretts. All the time."

The Garretts are everything the Reeds are not. Loud, messy, affectionate. And every day from her rooftop perch, Samantha Reed wishes she was one of them . . . until one summer evening, Jase Garrett climbs up next to her and changes everything.

As the two fall fiercely for each other, stumbling through the awkwardness and awesomeness of first love, Jase's family embraces Samantha - even as she keeps him a secret from her own. Then something unthinkable happens, and the bottom drops out of Samantha's world. She's suddenly faced with an impossible decision. Which perfect family will save her? Or is it time she saved herself?

A transporting debut about family, friendship, first romance, and how to be true to one person you love without betraying another. (Goodreads)

My Life Next Door is a fun, sweet, YA Contemporary Romance that focuses on the developing relationship and first love of Samantha and Jase.  Fans of the YA Contemporary Romance genre, Katie McGarry, Sarah Dessen, and Susane Colasanti will definitely enjoy this offering. I know I read it in only one day and I cannot wait for more! 

Highlights

I really enjoyed the focus on family, friendships, and first love. I loved the romance between Samantha and Jase - getting to experience their first "love", it was heartwarming and feel good - it just made you want to smile. The romance was fun and sweet, I was definitely in love with the Garrett family - I always wished I had a big, loving family and it was so great to read about them. I was definitely intrigued by them and wanted to see and hear more about each of the members - especially little George! 

I think one of the strengths of the story was the interesting and varied characters. Whether I liked the characters or not, I found them intriguing and was eager to learn more about them and their backstory. I even found myself surprised by Fitzpatrick's ability to change my mind about a character - to expand upon a character and describe their growth and mold that character I didn't think I would like into one I looked forward to reading about. I obviously enjoyed George, Jase, and Sam - but surprisingly enough I was also intrigued by Tim! I liked that Sam wasn't necessarily "typical" - she was intelligent, observant, quiet, reserved and calm. I also enjoyed Jase for being this amazing person: level-headed, sweet, respectful, caring, and above all interesting. 

One thing that I really enjoyed was reading about the relationship between Sam and her mother and hearing about her home life. I think the personality of her mother and their tense relationship is one many might be able to relate to. I always find it enjoyable in literature to see a variety of parenting styles and relationships between families. Not everyone comes from a perfect home, and I liked the contrast to the families in the story - nothing was "perfect" on either side and their were ups and downs for both sides.

Wishes

While I very much enjoyed the story, there are a few things I could say I wished for during it. One thing I would have liked to see would have been a little more of a focus on a functional friendship - it would have been a nice touch to see that either Sam or Jase had a good friend outside of one another. However, that's more of a nitpick.

I did struggle with the main climatic episode of the book - it was very hard to read and wrap my head around, especially how certain characters dealt with it. (I won't say too much, I'd rather be vague than give away too much.) The climax of the story was very dramatic, but I think I would have preferred a different situation as the climax of the story. The storyline for me was a bit hard to take and wrap my head around or think how the characters could move on from. Maybe I wouldn't feel that way as much as I do, but the story was left rather open-ended and unresolved for me on a number of levels. Although, this might have to do with the fact that it appears there will be a second book.

Overall, I really enjoyed the story - the flow was great, the characters fun, the story intriguing. I would recommend it to a friend, and I will definitely be picking up the next one in the hopes of getting some more answers! Despite my nitpicks, I read this book in one day - it held my attention and it left me feeling a bit adrift: I wanted more! Immediately! So if you haven't had the chance, I'd say definitely give this one a try.

Recommendations:

What Happened To Goodbye - Sarah Dessen

Stealing Heaven - Elizabeth Scott

Dare You To - Katie McGarry

Perfect Chemistry - Simone Elkeles

When It Happens - Susane Colasanti

Rating - 

4 out of 5 Doxies - Liked it a lot, definitely worth the read - I know I'll be reading more by this author!

Waiting On/ Wishlist Wednesday - Take Me On by Katie McGarry

                            Waiting On Wednesday: Take Me On - Katie McGarry

                                           

Waiting on Wednesday is a weekly meme hosted by Jill at Breaking the Spine and Wishlist Wednesday is hosted over at Pen to Paper. These are weekly memes that are a chance to share new books that you're most excited about getting you hands on. 

Why I'm Waiting...

Yes, I know, it's another Katie McGarry book - and you might be thinking "Hmmm…hasn't she already featured Katie McGarry as her Waiting On/Wishlist choice recently?" Why yes, yes I have. You know why? Because I love Katie McGarry books! And also, she is fabulous and has 3 (yeah you read that right) new books out in 2014!! 

I love Katie McGarry! Her Pushing the Limits series is the best, I love all of the characters - I also adore that you get to revisit favorite characters in each and they work as stand alones as well. This one is about one of Rachel's (Crash Into You) brothers, West. I'm excited to see more of him, and also I've heard there is more Abby in this one!! (Abby is also from Crash and by far my fave character!) Additionally, it's Katie McGarry - which guarantees it's bound to be excellent. 

This will Katie McGarry's second publication in 2014! Red At Night was out on April 1st and Breaking the Rules will be out in December. Annnnd, there's another one coming out in 2015!! --- Now let's all cross our fingers and hope for Abby's story next! :)

***

Please feel free to share links to your highly anticipated reads below. It's so exciting to read about everyone else's picks and find new books to add to my TBR list!

Jenn

Tale of Two Doxies

www.taleoftwodoxies.blogspot.com

Waiting On Wednesday: Cure For The Common Break-Up by Beth Kendrick

Waiting on Wednesday is a weekly meme hosted by Jill at Breaking the Spine. This weekly meme is a chance to share upcoming books that you're most excited about.

I always love Beth Kendrick's Chick Lit books, they are the perfect summer read. I have this one on pre-order, so I'm excited for it to come out. I think this one sounds cute and I love the cover! 

Please feel free to share links to your highly anticipated reads below. It's so exciting to read about everyone else's picks and find new books to add to my TBR list!

Jenn

 Tale of Two Doxies

www.taleoftwodoxies.blogspot.comwa

Top Ten Tuesday: Memorable Characters

Top Ten Tuesdays is a great weekly meme hosted by The Broke and the Bookish, where you get to share fun book related topic top ten lists. It is also another great meme for finding great new books, authors and blogs! 

This week is 

Top Ten Characters Who Are Memorable

So without further ado, and in no particular order….

* Kat Bishop (from Heist Society by Ally Carter) - I loved Kat, she was an amazing heroine. She's smart, relatable, quiet, observant, loyal - I'd totally want her as a best friend. Also did I mention she's a teenager who mastermind's a heist?

* Roux (from Also Known As by Robin Benway) - Roux is so fun - she's quirky, sassy and definitely has spunk. I love how Roux is a bit all over the place with her thoughts and how excitable she is. I also find Roux endearing, she's loyal and strong - but she also has a softer, more vulnerable side. She is definitely charming and someone I would want to hang out with in real life. 

* Abby (from Crash Into You by Katie McGarry) - I loved Abby. I don't even know how to put Abby into words but I loved her. The funny thing is this book is not about Abby, she is a secondary character - and yet, I kept looking for her and I wanted more! I hope Abby gets her own book, she 100% deserves one she is just awesome. 

* George, King of Thieves (from the Alanna/Song of the Lioness books by Tamora Pierce) - George is amazing, he is loyal, smart, witty, charming and completely endearing. George was the King of Thieves who befriends young Alan of Trebound and is a good friend to Alanna throughout the books. I just loved him and always look forward to re-reading the books and seeing him again :)

* Heather Wells (from Size 12 is Not Fat, and the other Heather Wells Mysteries by Meg Cabot) - Hmmm, how to describe Heather? Well, she's fun, light-hearted, funny, a bit sassy and definitely loyal. I love Heather - I want her as a best friend - she never fails to cheer me up and make me laugh. 

Plus, I quotes like this…

“Wait. Why am I thinking about Krispy Kremes? We’re supposed to be exercising.” 

* Fred & George Weasley (from the Harry Potter Series by JK Rowling) - Oh Fred and George how I love you two mischief makers. You can't help but love them - I wish I had gone to school with them (in more ways than one - oh Hogwarts!). Who wouldn't love to see their mischievous ways and pranks? These two are hilarious and by far some of my favorite characters from the books.

 

* Keladry (from Protector of the Small series by Tamora Pierce) - I love Kel, I thought she had great spirit and was always very true to herself. I like that she was loyal, passionate, and not afraid to be herself and fight for what she believed in.

* Xemerius (from the Ruby Red trilogy by Kerstin Gier) - Who doesn't love a demon, gargoyle that moves around and talks a lot? Xemerius was funny, I found him amusing and always looked forward to his scenes as he always added some lovely comic relief. I loved his comments and little commentaries, I also enjoyed his love of romance novels. 

* Finnick Odair (Catching Fire by Suzanne Collins) - Well if you haven't read the books, I'd hate to spoil him - so I'll try to keep this brief. Finnick was one of the previous Hunger Game champs - he's charming and there is a lot more to him than meets the eye. I admired Finnick and found him to be pretty amazing.

* Lula & Ranger (from the Stephanie Plum series by Janet Evanovich) - Yes I'm cheating and I have two here. Lula is awesome because she's hilarious - she also thinks she's pretty kick butt and she definitely tries. I wouldn't mess with Lula - she can track down bad guys while eating her bucket of fried chicken and she's not afraid to use a taser. Ranger is just - Ranger. Mysterious, intriguing, strong and someone I would never want to mess with. I love Ranger! (hence the amazing name for one of the doxies)

How about you: what characters did you choose to list and how?

 Please feel free to comment and link up so I can visit your Top Ten!

Jenn

 Tale of Two Doxies

www.taleoftwodoxies.blogspot.com