Unperfect Princess

Oh. My. Gods. : A Book Review

2011-08-12T16:55:00.000-05:00

"'A fairy tale,' he says, 'is a story we wish were true.'"

I loved this book! It was quirky and girly and a nice break from witches/werewolves/etc. While I adore my normal genre of books, I enjoy the girlier side as well. It did bother me a bit that I had a history in the study of greek mythology, thus some "surprises" were obvious to me but the characters hadn't figured it out yet. Aside from that, I really really enjoyed it.

Phoebe is just a normal girl. Track team girl, but normal. She lives alone with her mother in California and has her whole life planned out. That is, until her mother goes to a family reunion to visit Phoebe's late father's family and brings home an engagement! Once school is out Phoebe is pulled from all she knows and taken to a pricate island in Greece. On the island is the academy that her new step-father runs, but the students are... special. They are all the desendants of greek gods. Her only hope to continue on the path to the life she had planned is to gain scholarship to her dream college, but that is only possible if she runs excellently on the track team. She has to be better than everyone else, better than demi-gods. And you thought your high school was hell.

I've said it before, and I say it again, I love this book! It was clever and sweet and not too serious. It's a wonderful read if you like greek mythology, super humans, etc. I, personally, cannot wait to get my hands on the sequel, Goddess Bootcamp.

Balefire : A Book Review

2011-08-12T16:24:00.000-05:00

"The thing about unrequited love is that it doesn't tend to go away."

"Darkness is in everyone... In me, in you, in [them] and everyone. And so is light. Darkness is a choice, a path. Every day we all have to make the choice, to choose good, choose light. We make the choice against darkness, against evil, every day, a thousand times a day, our whole lives."

This is a good, but long book by Cate Tiernan. Granted it is four books in one volume, it reads like one book. I really wish I had read them as four different books. I got kind of bogged down in the length simply because my attention span is horrible. I really did love the twins and the characters. I liked the plot and really loved that Tiernan changed points of view between first person (Thais) to first person (Clio) to third person. It did help keep my attention and thought it was neat to see all sides.

Clio is beautiful, popular, and powerful. Living in New Orleans with her grandmother, she's grown up knowing she was a witch and learning to use her magick. Que Thais. Thias's father dies unexpectedly while she is away on vacation. When she is returns she's swept into the courts and is put in the custody of a woman she's never heard of, as were her father's orders. Axelle is abnormal and whisks Thais off to New Orleans, away from all she's ever known. There she gets enrolled in school and the first day, she finds herself staring into her own face on another girl. From there, Thais is rushed into a world where she has a twin sister, powerful magickal abilities, and a group of witches who need her. The girls have to learn quickly who to help, who can be trusted, and most importantly how to help eachother.

I greatly enjoyed this book. I really think anyone who likes stories of witches will enjoy this. It's really nice if you like New Orleans or know some about it. I especially adore seeing Thais's view on summer and live in the deep south after coming from northern states. Like I said, I think most people who love witches will love Cate Tiernan's take on them.

Long time no see

2011-08-12T16:00:00.000-05:00

Just a quick update here. I've been busy trying to get ready for school! I move in Thursday! I'm sorry if it takes a bit to get into the swing of school and blogging. <3

But expect two new book reviews soon, as in like today!

Inspiration : Audrey Hepburn

2011-07-20T14:00:00.059-05:00

Welcome to the first of my inspirations. My Inspiration posts can be anything from fashion to music to reading/writing to life in general and may be about anything from people to place to items to trends to seasons. First, an inspiration of fashion and life in general. The one person in the world, living or dead, that I would do anything to have lunch with, Audrey Hepburn!

I feel that I, and everyone, can learn so much from Audrey Hepburn. She was beautiful, fashionable, successfule, and extremely caring. She was not only an accomplished actress and style icon but also a humantitarian and all around lovely person.

"As you grow older, you will discover that you have two hands, one for helping yourself, the other for helping others. "

Her fashion and style are timeless and elegant. She wore beautifully simply outfits, never drawing away from her natural beauty. She was truely glamourous. She used clean, defined lines and knew how to use spimple and bold accessories in moderation. There truly has never been such a beautiful woman, before or since.

"I never think of myself as an icon. What is in other people's minds is not in my mind. I just do my thing."

For how she inspires me for life in general, I cannot descirbe it. I can only give you the quotes I find most inpiring.

"I believe in pink. I believe that laughing is the best calorie burner. I believe in kissing, kissing a lot. I believe in being strong when everything seems to be going wrong. I believe that happy girls are the prettiest girls. I believe that tomorrow is another day and I believe in miracles."

"I don't want to be alone, I want to be left alone."

"I was born with an enormous need for affection, and a terrible need to give it. "

"If I'm honest I have to tell you I still read fairy-tales and I like them best of all. "

"It's that wonderful old-fashioned idea that others come first and you come second. This was the whole ethic by which I was brought up. Others matter more than you do, so 'don't fuss, dear; get on with it.'"

"Since the world has existed, there has been injustice. But it is one world, the more so as it becomes smaller, more accessible. There is just no question that there is more obligation that those who have should give to those who have nothing."

"The beauty of a woman is not in a facial mode but the true beauty in a woman is reflected in her soul. It is the caring that she lovingly gives the passion that she shows. The beauty of a woman grows with the passing years."

"The beauty of a woman is not in the clothes she wears, the figure that she carries or the way she combs her hair."

"There is more to sex appeal than just measurements. I don't need a bedroom to prove my womanliness. I can convey just as much sex appeal, picking apples off a tree or standing in the rain."

And one I agree with more than anything and vow to live my life with this in mind:

"Paris is always a good idea."

Here's a few pictures of me "channeling" Audrey's glam:

To be a Lady.

2011-07-18T14:46:00.000-05:00

Today on Tumblr I found, and browsed, an amazing blog! Etiquetteforalady.tumblr.com. I absolutely love the "rules" they have. They are actually less "rules" and more advice. Many of which I adore! Here are a few of my favorites!

For more amazing "rules", check 'em out on Tumblr. Also check out their partner blog etiquetteforagentleman.tumblr.com.

I want love to be... undeniable... unquestionable...impractical...

2011-07-12T23:10:00.000-05:00

I want a single rose, just because.

I want passionate fights and making up.

I want 2am I-had-to-see-yous.

I want a romantic day, once in a while.

I want silly gumball gifts, because it made you think of me.

I want you to think of me.

I want surprises, without even a hint that they're coming.

I want to be picked up for reservations.

I want sunrise picnics.

Twilight walks.

Rainy kisses.

I want Gurdon in the rain.

I want ghost hunts because you know I enjoy them.

I want a home cooked dinner by candle light.

I want flowers, just because I'm sad.

I want a movie night.

I want date night.

I want adorable attempts to cook, or craft, or braid, but because you like to see me smile.

I want a hand picked flower because it's "as pretty as I am".

I want ridiculous, sappy, romantic comedy love.

But that's only dreaming right?

(Click photos for credit--> 4th picture from a subaru commercial)

Desole.

2011-07-11T15:10:00.000-05:00

I'm so sorry I haven't updated in so long. I haven't really had much to say...

My best friend was down visiting me this last weekend.

We actually ended up watching Gilmore Girls, drinking coffee, and not sleeping.
Just anyone was wondering, 4 cups of coffee is enough to cause severe kidney infection in someone with kidney problems.

Yep. I'm sick. It's really not fun, but I do get to spend the days watching tv, netflix, reading, and re-writing my book!

Speaking of Netflix, I've been watching an excellent anime! "This Ugly Yet Beautiful World". It's pretty odd, but I love it!

I'm off to go finish watching them. Look for normal posting when I'm well again. (being sick really takes the will to blog away).

Secret Society : A Book Review

2011-07-01T18:08:00.000-05:00

I actually read this back around the time of The Two Princesses of Bamarre, but, liek the other, it got lost in my jump drive. But here it is! Better late than never, no?

“Nothing is easier than self-deceit. For what each man wishes, that he also believes to be true.”

qtd. by Tom Dolby

“The greatest trick the Devil ever pulled was convincing the world he didn’t exist.”

qtd. by Tom Dolby

This is one of those books you cannot put down! It may take a few pages but the reader learns to love (or hate) the four main characters: Pheobe, Lauren, Nick, and Patch. This is an excellent debut novel and I expect to see amazing things from him. I’m eagerly awaiting to get my hands on the sequel.

Pheobe just moved to town with her mom. She doesn’t quite fit in at Chadwick, but she’s determined to make her New York life exactly what she dreamed it to be. Lauren is a girl thrust into the life a socialite by her mother. Definite Fashionista , Lauren is positive and loves a good time, or she used to. Nick is a little rich boy who is always in the spotlight because of his family. But the spotlight comes with responsibilities, ones he may not be quite ready for. Patch is nothing like the others. He’s an aspiring film maker, but not blessed with wealth. He’d do anything for his chance to shine. These four seem to have nothing in common but their school, but they have one thing in common: The Society.

I really adored this book. Especially towards the end I refused to put it down! I grew to love and hate various characters and some of then turned out to be nothing I expected. I suggest this book to everyone! Especially if you like conspiracy, rebellion, secret society type books.

The Two Princesses of Bamarre : A Book Review

2011-07-01T18:02:00.001-05:00

I actually read this before Princess Academy, but the review got lost in the world of my flash drive. So here it is!

“Tarry with me, my love, at my side.”

-Gail Carson Levine

I haven’t enough words to put the praise I have for Gail Carson Levine into. Until now, I had only read her most well-known novel, Ella Enchanted, and it was my favorite. Recently I was lucky enough to find two of her other books at a used bookstore. I got decent copies of Fairest and The Two Princesses of Bamarre. The later I read first and absolutely loved it!

Princess Adelina is a shy, timid little princess. Princess Meryl, Adelina’s sister, is more of an adventure loving, courageous, strong willed princess. Princess Meryl always planned to find the cure to the Gray Death and to protect her sister. When the tables are turned and Meryl gets the Gray Death, it’s up to Adelina to leave the warmth and safety of her castle home in hopes to save her sister. Can a shy little princess become a hero? Or with Bamarre lose both the princesses?

I absolutely loved the fairytale way Levine tells this story! Such a beautifully spun new tale for the ages. It’s so wonderful to read a standalone novel and it’s even better that it was amazing. While Ella’s story still remains my favorite, this book is certainly towards the top of my list of favorite full novel fairy tales.

Live for you.

2011-06-23T07:00:00.000-05:00

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They asked her why she was like that. Why she was different, why she insisted on being a "freak." In reply, she could only smile, fiddle with her fiery hair, and say, "I'm not really different. I'm just real. I'm just who I am. I don't dress for you, I don't smile for you, laugh for you, breathe for you. Everything I do is for me. So maybe I am different, because it seems you live for everyone else. Learn to live for you."

Free.

2011-06-22T07:00:00.013-05:00

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She finally felt free. She was scared out of her mind. Her whole life was actually in her own hands for once. Everything she wanted to happen, she had to make happen. No one to rely on. Fly or fall, it was all of her own doing. It was scary, but she was finally free.

Something.

2011-06-21T07:00:00.000-05:00

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There's no real way to describe it. Nothing really seems to match and yet nothing is out of place. Beautifully miss-matched. It's kind of her outward showing of her inner mind and life. Everything is so strange and different. Everything is just perfectly out of place. Something's strange, very strange, but everything's just right.

Bad Girls Don't Die : A Book Review

2011-06-20T23:02:00.000-05:00

"Preps are like cheerleaders, only with less jumping."
-Katie Alender

"In case you haven't noticed, my whole existence is one big flaw."
-Katie Alender

All I have to say about this book is Oh. My. God! This book is absolutely fabulous! I read it in about 24 hours. I absolutely could not put it down. Mrs. Alender has such an excellent way of writing. It's easy to follow but still manages to draw you in. It had me jumping at every little noise and nearly screaming to warn or help the characters.

Alexis isn't popular, in fact, she's kind of anti-popular. Every one at school is either afraid of her or constantly, but secretly, mocking her. At home Alexis's parents are a bit preoccupied with anything but their daughters. That just leaves Kasey, Alexis's baby sister who is so timid, shy, and unique. Kasey collects dolls. Did I collects? More like she hoards them. That's all fine and dandy until timid little Kasey starts becoming a more secretive, angry girl. Then things start happening in their old house. Doors close by themselves, water boils on burners that have yet to be turned on, cold air blows from an air conditioner that's turned off leaving the house in near arctic temperatures. That's just the beginning. Alexis starts to notice Kasey is changing too, more than just secretive and angry (which can be attributed to early teens). Kasey's eyes, usually a beautiful blue, sometimes are a deep green. Kasey also starts using strange, old-fashioned language. Something is definitely wrong and Alexis (with the helps of an unlikely friend) is the only one who can save her sister, but is the bond of sisters stronger than whatever has the house?

I recommend this book to everyone! Well, everyone who enjoys paranormal fiction, ghosts, creepy doll collections, etc. I absolutely can't wait to get the next in the series, From Bad to Cursed. With the amazingness of this book, the sequel can only be brilliant as well. This is definitely a 5/5!

Always.

2011-06-20T07:00:00.002-05:00

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She was always so elegant. Always so prim. So prissy. So happy. She knew exactly what to say and exactly what I needed. She'd leave me alone and hold me close at the same time. No one could ever make things better the way she did. She was always beautiful and kind. She was always so many things, but she was never truly mine.

My bookshelf expands.

2011-06-19T21:49:00.000-05:00

Well, I'm off to tumblr for a bit and then to read!!

I went out today and bought two new books! I was so excited. Now I've too many to read though!! My next few books to read are:

*Which I'm starting tonight!!!

Just a glimpse into my near future! (The first two are the ones I bought today) I'm also still reading Eat, Pray, Love. I only really read it when I need inspiration or a smile.

I'm also well on my way into moving into my mothers house. Most of my things are down here, but certainly not unpacked. I've spent from about 4:30 or 5 this afternoon until now (9:44pm) unpacking and cleaning and dusting and placing and organizing and boxing. I'm rather happy with the progress. I'll have pictures up soon. I'll hopefully have my laptop fixed next week but I won't be back on it (aka have free time AND internet at the same time) most likely until the 4th or 5th (maybe as late as the 8th or 9th) of next month. Once I have my computer back I'll be able to get back to my dirt and grime post and book reviews and all that fun stuff.

Well, now I'm off to tumblr then to read!!

Princess Academy : A Book Review

2011-06-18T11:25:00.000-05:00

"No wolf falters before the bite
So strike."
--Shannon Hale

"Look no farther than your hand
Make a choice and take a stand."
--Shannon Hale

This is a sweet book about a young girl faced with a new environment bent on changing her. It's a good book, but not really exciting. There are a few scenes when you worry for the girls' safety, but mostly it's about the girls at school. I personally was able to put it down and walk away no problem. I certainly didn't want to abandon it, but I wasn't dying to see how it would end either.

Miri is a young girl who doesn't feel she quite fits in her mountain village home. Down in the Lowlands is a prince ready to marry, and the Priests will declare where she is to come from. The entire kingdom, and the province itself, we're surprised to hear Mount Eskel would produce the next princess. With this announcement, an academy is set up, per the King's orders, and all girls age 8-16 are forced to attend. Learning to read, write, curtsy, and survive. When trouble comes to Mount Eskel's academy, only Miri, the outcast, can save them all.

Shannon Hale has won a Newbery Honor award for this novel. It's a good relaxed reading. I suggest it if you like strange but not overly active or exciting novel. I think it's a good summer read for under a tree.

Dirt and Gime : 3

2011-05-22T14:53:00.000-05:00

Good heavens it has been a while and I am dreadfully sorry. I've found that not having internet has put a damper on my blogging. After graduation I should be about to blog more, but who knows. Fingers crossed, let's hope!

Prom was May 30th! It was fun... kind of. I think that the whole concept is over rated, but that's just my opinion. I loved getting dressed up and seeing Hunter in his tux. <3 We went out to eat at my favorite resteraunt, went to the prom for about 30min., then went back to his house. We danced around it living room; it was so romantic. :) I, of course, have a ton more pictures and you can find them HERE.

Schools out!!! My last day of school was May 13th! I really expected to be sad about graduating and leaving, but I really wasn't. I'm just so excited to start college, but I certainly don't want to rush through the summer either. The above picture is one of my bestie in Western Civ. first semester. I love her so <3

Moving is underway! I've been packing up all my room in Arkansas to bring it to storage at my Mom's house in Louisiana. These are only the first few boxes. I'm so scared to pack anything in case I need it between now and July or August! But it is exciting anyway!

I'm also dreadfully behind on my book reviews, but I certainly haven't stopped reading! Be prepared to be bombarded with book reviews! I'm not going to back date them to when I finished them, but I may back date them to space them out a bit as to not flood dashboards. You can find links to all of them in the NEW left-sidebar! I'll have the links up by the end of today. Just click the book you wanna see a review of. <3

My next Dirt and Grime will have a surprise!!! Look out world!! <3

Little (Grrl) LOST : A Book Review

2011-05-21T14:57:00.001-05:00

“Have you ever seen a fairy?”
“Oh, sure. Duncan’s father is supposed to be one.”
“Really?”
“That’s what Melissa told me. But you shouldn’t call them that. Just say they’re gay.”
--Charles de Lint

Language is the oldest of magics.
--Charles de Lint

If you’re looking for a neat story about often forgotten creatures Charles de Lint’s Little (Grrrl) LOST is perfect for you. I greatly enjoyed reading it. It was an excellent break from the books I usually read. De Lint truly did a wonderful job on this one.

It’s the story of a friendship like no other. T.J. (the Big) moves into a new house from the country and thinks she has mice. Imagine her surprise when a door in her wall opens and out steps, not a mouse, but a 6 inch tall girl. Elizabeth (the Little) is dreadfully misunderstood by her parents and so positive she doesn’t need them. Despite being so small, Elizabeth is courageous, even if she does have an attitude problem. Their friendship is troubled and that’s just the beginning!

I highly suggest this book to anyone who enjoys books about friendship, outcasts/misunderstood people, or various mythical creatures. Charles de Lint is an excellent YA novelist. The story isn’t at all hard to read and makes for great leisure, easy reading. I personally can’t wait to read another of his wonderful novels.

Shadowland : A Book Review

2011-05-20T15:12:00.000-05:00

“We are all connected, all of us made of the same vibrating source. But while some energy leaves you cold & some leaves you lukewarm, the one that you’re destined for? It feels like this.”
--Alyson Noёl

“Fate is nothing but the deeds committed in a prior state of existence.”
--Ralph Waldo Emerson

The second quote above basically sums up Alyson Noёl’s third Immortals book, Shadowland. As always Noёl does an amazing job with this new mini-mythology she’s invented. If you have not read the first two books (Evermore and Blue Moon) I highly suggest them. (Also don’t read my synopsis if you haven’t read them.)

Ever’s been through a lot recently. Losing her parents, moving in with her aunt, new friends, and, of course, Damen and all that comes with him. Since meeting her soul mate, she’s learned so much. One major thing is to never trust Roman or any rogue immortal. Thanks to him, she can now never touch her love, lest he will perish. Not only is Roman causing problems, but Haven and Sabine are both suspicious. Sabine is insisting Ever get a job. Cue Jude, a sexy surfer boy, and Ever’s new boss. Still having to protect herself and those she loves from Roman, Ever also has to find a way to fix the trouble Roman tricked her into causing. The drama continues!

I absolutely love this book! Of the three I’ve read, this has to be my favorite (or at least tied with the first). Noёl carries the story on and leaves much open for a promising continuation! I cannot wait to read the next : Dark Flame.

Demon from the Dark : A Book Review

2011-05-19T15:34:00.001-05:00

“My enemies have deemed me fearless. ‘Tis no compliment. The only males who know no fear are the ones who have nothing to lose.” – Malkom Slaine (by Kresley cole)

“If these people execute me, I’m going to be sooo pissed.” – Kresley Cole

“I think I just fell into like with him.” – Kresley Cole

“Two things that can never be contained? Velociraptors and Zombies.” – Kresley Cole

Mmmm, this is yet another of Kresley Cole's sexy paranormal fictions. The main male, Malkom, is rough and handsome. The main female, Carrow, is an independent, party girl witch. Fantastic, as always! Well done Ms. Cole!

Carrow is captured by an organization set out to destroy, or at least figure out, immortals. To gain her freedom, Carrow is convinced to go into a Hell-like realm to capture a demon, vampire mix. Sure she can do it without a problem, she goes and attempts to lure him in with her body. Little does she know things about this impersonal, selfish mission, with quickly change.
Malkom is an outcast demon-vampire mix, forced to live his lifei n the mountains, feared by all. Suddenly, out of no where, this poor male's mate is dropped dead in the middle of his territory, vulnerable and weak. He has an undying need to protect her, while she is nothing but distrusting. She doesn't recognize him! He must now convince his fated mate to love him and accept him.

I highly suggest this book to anyone who likes adult romances, paranormal fantasies, and is mature enough for it. It does have some intimate scenes that may not be comfortable for many people, but the plot itself is excellent! If you're up for it, check it out.

Rumors : A Book Review Spoilers of first book

2011-05-18T15:49:00.000-05:00

“Then he drew her in, folding her small body into his arms, making her forget that there had ever been any other place.” – Anna Gobersen

“Wouldn’t she just let herself in? That’s what I did, and I’m not even related….” – Anna Goberson

“Good girls hold their heads high by daylight,
Their grace and their virtue soaring with kites,
While bad girls slink along in their shame -
Everyone stares at then, everyone blames.
But those bad girls sleep soundly at night
Ne’er do their consciences wake them in a fright,
While our good girls toss and they turn -
They lay awake for those who will burn.
-A Seamstress’s Verses, 1898 (Anna Goberson’s – Rumors)

“That was the way love was, she guessed – it left you always unsteady on your feet.” – Anna Goberson

I love the Luxe series. The scandal, the love, the betrayal, the clothes! they're set at the turn of the 20th century. The lives of three society girls entertwined by friendship, love, and hatred. I loved the first book (Luxe) and this one did not disappoint!

Starting with Will and Elizabeth in California, everything seems great. Back in New York, everyone is mourning Elizabeth's death, and preparing for the marriage of her once-fiance and once-friend, Penelope and Henry. Once Elizabeth hears of her mother's fading health from Diana, she rushes back to town and trouble ensues.

The summary is so short because it's so difficult to summarize without giving away the awesome things! I love this book, and this series! This is a must read for anyone who loves scandal, the turn of the 20th century, or even the Victorian era!

Blue Moon : A Book Review Spoilers into first book!

2011-05-15T15:15:00.000-05:00

The heart and mind aren’t always friendly. – Alyson noel

“The weird thing about saying good-bye is that it never gets easier.” – Alyson Noel

In this one Alyson does a good job continuing the story of Ever's trip into the world of immortality. I absolutely loved the first book (Evermore), this one was a bit of a let down simply beacause I didn't personally like this story AS MUCH, but I still enjoyed it.

After meeting Damen and killing Drina everything in the eternal love story of Ever will be easy, right? Not at all. Enter Roman, a clever, cute, and charming immortal. Everyone instantly love him, Stacey and the in-crowed, Haven and the outcasts, teachers, and even Damen. Ever is all alone on the outside watching on with suspion as everyone she knows and loves buddys up with those she knows and hates. A story of betrayal and heartbreak. Now she has to fix everything, if there's even anything to fix. Her whole life is falling apart, how will it end? Or is all this just the beginning of a new story?

As for a continuing story, the end leaves you eager for the next and dieing to know what happens. Noel is a great YA author and I suggest this book to anyone.

Sunshine : A Book Review

2011-05-12T16:00:00.000-05:00

“This was on par with, say, finding out the president of the global council was a [vampire], the moon was made of green cheese, and the sun only rose in the morning because of this complicated system of levers and dials overseen by an encampment of the master race from Antares settled on Mars.” – Robin McKinley

“I was dinner, and when I was finished being dinner, I was dead. But it was like: okay, that’s the way it goes, bad luck, damn.” – Robin McKinley

“It’s pretty amazing what you can not think about.” – Robin McKinley

Robin McKinley is one of my absolute favorite authors! I've read a few of her books and this one was exquisite! Ms. McKinley weaves a fantastic and unigue vampire story in a world at war with the creatures!

Sunshine, or Rae, is just a baker. Get up at 4am, make cinnamon rolls, bake, read books about the Others, bubble bath, sleep, wake, bake. That's her life and she's ok with that. Working in the family cafe as the head, of two, bakers is the life she's settled happily into. A sweet boyfriend, kind land lady. One day, to relax, she decides to go out to the old lake house. There hadn't been trouble down there in years except for the occasional bad spot, so it should've been safe. But it wasn't . Now Sunshine is being held captive by a group of vampires with only a fellow prisoner for company. This fellow prisoner is a vampire too. And let the race begin. Sunshine must escape or die trying, but what about the poor pitiful vampire she's locked up with? Oh dear, and the plot thickens.

I highly suggest this book to EVERYONE. I got it out of the YA section, but they have it in the adult novels with a different cover. I'm not sure if they changed the story or just the cover, but I suggest either, or both. I love vampire tales, especially ones as unigue as this. Thumbs up Ms. McKinley! Keep it up!

The question.

2011-05-08T00:44:00.000-05:00

It's been a while, and I had planned for it to be longer still, but I watched my movie, the one that inspires me most, again: Eat, Pray, Love.

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I'm quickly nearing the end of my high school career, five days left of the only life I've known. Then come summer, then college, and the pattern continues, but that is only five years of my life. The question now is, what do I want to do with my life? I've always said I want to be a teacher, get married, have children, raise them, etc., but isn't that what most everyone says? Picket fence, logical, easy. A job that will always be needed, secure someone to take care of me, continue the race. Life in the U.S. That's what I envision for myself, but that's not really what I want for myself. I want to spend my life somewhere else. Seeing the world, not as a tourist, but as a local. Stay in one place until I'm tired of it or until I feel in my heart it is time to move on, then go somewhere else. That's what I really want. I want to eat what I like and not care that I gain several pounds. I want to study religion, all religions. I want to find God or some faith that is perfectly right for me. I want to study the old ways of every country or town or area I visit. I want to meet people, friends that become family, all over the globe. I want to fall in love, repeatedly, with new people, strangers, or with the same person. I want to go create myself. I want to get into the world. I want to help new members of my family if they need it. I want to find my word. I want to be at peace. Truly, happily at peace. While I know it's a long shot, and it's probably impossible, it's what I want. And there's no reason not to dream.

1 year.

2011-04-28T07:00:00.002-05:00

She doesn't really know how it happened, how they fell in love. It started so long ago. Childhood crushes. If only they'd known. Lost for years, just to meet again. They met again and went from there. There is no sequence of events, no noticing factors of "I'm starting to fall," not indications. Just all at once it hit her in the heart. In that single second she realized she loved this man, she would marry this man. I suppose that's how love is sometimes, untraceable yet undeniable.

Happy Anniversary baby! I love you so very much. Thank you for a wonderful year! <3

Moments.

2011-04-15T07:00:00.001-05:00

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These were the moments she lived for. Just the girls together, dancing, having fun. No one cares how good of a dancer she is or what she's wearing because these girls were her friends. This was where she was truly free to be herself. Dancing around, feeling the music, and living life. Just her and the girls, no one else mattered. It wasn't everything she could want, but it was enough. Enough to remind her why she kept trying. She lived for these times, this acceptance, this pure love.

Everything.

2011-04-14T07:00:00.001-05:00

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This was everything to them, just this, They were wrapped up in eachothers arms. They didn't have long, only a few hours before they had to seperate again, not knowing when they'd see eachother again. They were 200 miles apart, for indefinate amounts of time. No one beileved they could make it, and sometimes they don't think they can, but it's these moments. Holding eachother, not thinking about the leaving or the distance, and they know, it's right. This is where they're both ment to be. Even if they can't be together all the time, even if its a few years down the line, they know they're supposed to be together. They won't give this up. It's these times that they realize, they have everything.

The Path.

2011-04-13T07:00:00.001-05:00

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She couldn't help but think about him when she walked on that path. The path they'd walked down together so many times. The path they'd made as children, where they'd first kissed as children then gagged and ran in opposite directions. The path where he'd scared her and she'd beat him up. The path where she'd first realized she loved him. He'd been watching the sunset, she'd been watching him. The path where he'd told her he was in love, with that other woman. The path he'd brought that woman to propose to her. The path where he'd unintentionally broken his best friends heart. The path where she'd last seen him before he left on his honeymoon. The path she walks down daily just hoping that, maybe, one day, she'll find him there, waiting for her. Waiting to tell her he was wrong, that he loves her and always has. Waiting there on that path, their path. She walks that path every day, hoping, praying, and crying, every day.

Carolina. Aphrodite. Apollo.

2011-04-12T07:00:00.002-05:00

This is a short little thing about three of the characters in the book I'm currently writing.

Her name is Carolina, and no one understands. She's not like them, she never will be. She'll never fit in. She's lonely and taunted, day in and day out. Sad, alone, and not like them.

Her name is Aphrodite, and she wants to understand. She, too, has felt teh pain of never fitting in. She has been the outcast, and gladly would again, if only dear Carolina would just let her in.

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His name is Apollo, and he doesn't care to understand. It's not his problem that she doesn't fit in. His sister's charity case is not his own. Why does she have to bring the pitiful ones home?

~~~~~

The pictures are ones of my own or my friend's taking. Old but I thought they fit. (Except for the picture of Apollo, see the link below the pic)

So what do y'all think?

NOTE: This is, indeed, copyrighted, as all the writings on this blog (unless otherwise credited). Stealing this is against the law and hurtful. Please dont.

Dirt and Grime : 2

2011-04-11T19:16:00.000-05:00

I this this is what I'll start calling my personal, diary type entries. Waht do ya think?
(I haven't taken many pictures recently. The only two I have are uninteresting to say the least.)

This past weekend I went to stay on the college campus for the night and spent two days there. It was a blast! I met so many nice people! I can't wait to go and start school! I've made three friends all ready, Sarah, Ericka, and Lauren. I'm so pumped for college now. I also got my schedule. I have five classes the first semester : Intro to Sociology, FYE, European History, Geology, and Geology lab. I think it'll be fun and pretty easy to start. I took Soc. this semester here at my high school, and Wester Civ./ Euro. last semester here and then I briefly studied Geology when I was younger and thought I wanted to do that for a living. We'll see. :)

From now till school, I'm going to be slowly carrying my things from my dad's house here to my mother's near the college. This time I only took my books, the ones I haven't read yet. I don't actually have a book shelf, so I'm using the armoir and I think it looks nifty! This is no where near all of my books, just the ones that were in my room. (Note my favorite making center stage! )

Other than that I haven't really done much. I finished my research paper and am turning it in tomorrow! I went tanning today after a few errands. I'm going to try and go every day or two for just 20 or 30 minutes and slowly gain a tanned colour I like. We'll see.

It was also the debut of the Affliction swinsuit Hunter bought me earlier in the year or maybe last year! I like it more then I thought I would.

The book I'm currently reading is Little [Grrrl] Lost by Charles de Lint. I'm only one chapter (note they are long-ish chapters) in but I like it so far. It's rather interesting and cute. Not quite what I expected but it's good. :)

I hope you all are having a great week!

Restless.

2011-04-11T07:00:00.001-05:00

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She grows restless as the days limp on in monotanous way. Wake, rise, work, breathe, smile, rest, sleep. Sunrise, sunset, noon, night, morning. Continual cycle dragging on a snails pace, seemingly, for eternity. 23 days and it's done. 552 hours left. 33,120 minutes until this phase in her life is over. She's scared out of her mind. The thought of that day makes her short of breath. Her heart pounds like the feet of horses. She's nautious. She's afraid to change. But she's ready for something new. She's scared of what's to come, the unknown, and she loves it.

Parcels.

2011-04-09T07:00:00.000-05:00

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There's something special about a parcel coming in the mail. A sudden excitement that makes your blood pump and puts a smile on even a haggard face. If you ordered it yourself there's the excitement of what you have waited for days or months to recieve. Or maybe you've forgotten you ordered it. Or maybe a darling friend has sent you a beautiful gift and you have the excitement of the mysterious parcel. I think it's something about cutting through the tape, ripping through the paper or tediously unfolding each edge, untying the ribbon or string that gets my blood pumping. My favorite parcel to recieve is a small box wrapped in newspaper or recycled papers, tied with simple twine, nested in shredded paper pieces, in a larger shipping box. I check the post office several times a week, just in case. I know they'll send a message to my home, but just in case, I check for a darling parcel, hoping for a caring word. Do not let snail mail die. I would miss it so.

It's not easy.

2011-04-08T07:00:00.001-05:00

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It's not supposed to be easy, love that is. There are supposed to be trying times to test the strength, times that make you rip your hair out and cry. Times that make you question everything. Make you hate the one you love, make you wish you could leave, make you want to leave, but the point of it all is to see if you're dedicated enough to stay. If the love is enough to make you stay. If it's not hard you'll never know. You stay because it is easy. Somewhere in the ease, you loose it, the love that is. You lose it because you've never had to fight for it. Never allowed yourself the chance to get hurt. It's not right for it to be easy. It's supposed to hurt, a special hurt only love can save. Problems make bonding, tough times make strength, love makes it worth it. You cna't skip that stage. It's just not right.

Once a Witch : A Book Review

2011-04-07T15:15:00.002-05:00

"You're not going to do anything stupid, are you?"
"You mean intentionally?"
- Carolyn MacCullough

"Do you know what it's like to grow up knowing that you were meant to be something else, something so very different from all the ordinary filth you see in the in the streets around you?"
-Carolyn MacCullough

Above are a couple of quotes from Once a Witch by Carolyn MacCullough, an amazing first of, what I believe will be, a two part story. I absolutely love the characters in this novel. They're so easy to fall in love with and fear for the life of! Tamsin Greene is out heroine, an un-Talented girl in a famly of magic handlers with many Talents. Tamsin was supposed to be powerful, wonderful, a "beacon", but she has no magic in her. She feels out of place at home but find sanctuary at a boarding school in the city. That is until a man comes asking for the help of her sister, Rowena. Tamsin, playing the part of her sister to prove her worth, agrees to help this seemingly distraught professor, but the professor and the item are nothing they seem and soom Tamsin, the unmagical, un-Talented girl finds herself lost in a a quest to find some unknown object and herself. MacCullough does an amazing job bringing these characters to life. She puts a wonderful twist (or eight) into the plot. You'll never guess what happens next. This is certainly up there on my recommendations. If you like witches, mystery, adventure, sisterly love, family loyalty, and magic with a slight undertone of romance, this is the book for you.

Summer.

2011-04-07T07:00:00.001-05:00

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Bring it on baby. Late nights, street lights. Sandy feet, edge of my seat. Relaxation, no frustration. Book in my hand, "I'm with the band." Sunny days, Attention strays. Summer love, fits like a glove. Bikini body, girls being naughty. Perfect days with a friend, now I've got letters to send. Out of here, out of dodge, away from sneers, in a lodge. Summer time again, bring it on my friend!

Back to the Dirt and Grime.

2011-04-06T19:01:00.001-05:00

Oh dear where have I been?
Well, I, sadly, had to come home from my lovely break back to the dirt and grime of life. I've had to write a research paper, which I've yet to finish, and back to schooling, beginning trig, and generally being home. I'd certainly post more if I had internet at my home, but I do not. So I found a spare moment to sit down in the bookstore coffee shop here in town and just settle. I'm also taking the photos off my phone to show you all.
(Chai tea and Lemon biscotti! J'adore! <3 )

I also had Military Ball this past Saturday! It was so much fun and everyone looked so wonderful. I had a blast at my last ball. <3
(More pics to come! I PROMISE!)

I've also, as always, been reading! After finishing Ascension I started Once a Witch. Look for the review soon!

As much as it pains me to say so, I must be going now. I still have to finish my paper by Tuesday.
Look for an update this weekend! I'll have much to tell you about my college Springboard!

Stay.

2011-04-01T07:00:00.000-05:00

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They never told her this was wrong, all this running and hiding, or if they did she'd never listened. She never thought staying was an option. Don't get comfortable. Don't get close. She couldn't handle being hurt. Her only friend, a worn book, saved her form the lonliness of her life. The book was about a boy, a boy she learned to know so well from page to page. The only person she was close to. Only a character in a book. Only words on a page. Now he's here and alive, this boy she'd let herself love. He's here, he's now. Running seems so wrong. Staying here, with him, is the only option. She's so lost. She's too scared to stay, he's afraid to leave.

Paris.

2011-03-31T07:00:00.001-05:00

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There are so many places I want to be. Bejing, Scoul, Metternich, Flanders, London, Cairo, but none as much as Paris. Not specifically the city itself, but within a short distance. The outskirts of the marvelous city. I adored my time spent in Paris. I but want to return, with the love of my life. This time I will go in style. I will wear pearls and fine dresses. I will not be a tourist, I will be at home. My country, my language, my Paris.
J'adore Paris. Je veux aller à mon domicile.

Stars.

2011-03-30T07:00:00.001-05:00

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Stars wink at me from the heavens. So far away, so safe, so peaceful. Winking gently they seem to smile. It's as if they're trying to say, "Hold on tight, this is the night. I see it in your eyes. Now it's your time to shine." Winking again they go silent. Silently they sparkle. Across the millions of lightyears I feel their warmth in my heart, and I know, it'll be alright. My star is out there somewhere. She has faith in me.

We all have stars, but only the remarkable have constelations

I will have a constelation. I will be remarkable, remembered.

Ready.

2011-03-29T07:00:00.000-05:00

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She's ready to go. Just biding her time. Only a couple of months left in this place, in this hell. Soon she'll be out. Away from this dead end town. Away from the judging eyes and pathetic lies. She'll be free. She'll still be in the country. She's not moving far, but it's enough. She's escaping to a world where no one knows her. She can reinvent herself as someone even she can love without the hindrence of her past. She's been waiting all her life for this to come. Two more months. Just hold on.

Alone.

2011-03-28T07:00:00.003-05:00

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I can't quite get used to being alone and ok. Before, I have strived to not be alone. To find others like me. I've changed my reading preferences, my clothes, my classes, my hair, even my speech as to not be alone, but now, I'm comfortable with me, even if I am alone. I read my books in the sunlight and dress in a style I love and take classes I enjoy and fix my hair how and if I like and speak in anyway I like. I am alone again, and comfortable, happy even. Alone. Happy. I've never likes oxymorons. One day I'll get used to this feeling. One day.

Ascension: A Book Review

2011-03-27T09:38:00.000-05:00

"Why take a vow, when all the vows are broken?" - Caris Roane

"That makes sense. I suppose it's nice to have notice before someone diappears." - Caris Roane

Above the photo are a couple of cute quotes I liked from Ascension by Caris Roane.This is the first in the Guardians of Ascension series, an adult romance series about ascended angel like vampires.
In this book, Alison Wells is just a human, but she's never been normal. Plagued with powers she doesn't understand, she's forced to hold everything back and pretend to be someone she not. But everything changes when she accidenatally meets the sexy, Guardian of Ascension Kerrick. With Kerrick's help Alison learns about her power, his world, and her possible place in it.
I really loved this book. There are so many characters and you learn to love and hate each of them in due time, especially the warriors. Each character is distinctly different from the others, but alike in the fact that they all share the burdens of life we all do. One of my favorite characters is Endelle, Her High Supremness, is quirky, rude, deamanding, but realistic. She give good comic realif in tense situations because she is in control and takes very little without a joke or snark remark.
I highly reccommend this book to anyone who likes adult romances, but remember this is an adult romance, it is definately not for anyone under 18 (perhaps 16 depending on maturity level and such.) As far as the love scenes, as I know many are wondering, they're well written. Hot, sexy, but not trashy.
If this is your kind of book, read it! It's definately worth it!

I miss it.

2011-03-27T07:00:00.000-05:00

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Do you remember back then? When we were so young, and naive and sweet. When we'd believe anything could happen? When anything could happen? Before we were broken. Before we knew true hurt, the emotional kind. I remember it. I miss it. I miss being ok. I miss seeing nothing but magic. I miss the innocence. I miss when love was simple. I miss it. I miss it all.

Rift.

2011-03-26T23:53:00.000-05:00

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I feel so lost. So broken. So sad. I feel as if there is a rift growing between us. Like we're being pulled in seperate directions. I feel my gypsy's heart aching and crying for a change of pace, a new scene, undeniable love. I feel the rest of my soul aching and breaking to be with you, despite the doubt I house deep within. My gypsy heart frets and panics that it is stuck here, in a rut, in one place, for the rest of always. My soul cries out in pain at the very thought of leaving. I feel the lump in my throat, even now, as I think about it. Tears sting my eyes. I imagine my life without you. My soul is burning in eternal torment for it cannot imagine a single day without you, or remember happiness before you. My gypsy's heart gleams at the idea of something new and interesting and different. But it's not only my heart and soul that battle, it's my jealousy as well. I'm jealous of those who spend time with you, especially her. How I hate her. I'm also, as much as it pains me to say, jealous of you. You and your multitudes of friends. You and your open, loving personality. You and the fact that you're so personable. That people gravitate to you, trust you, love you. I love you because you aren't me, and I hate you because I am not you. But they say, "you can only hate those you once loved or still do." This is, of course, the latter. I love you dearly and hate you for everything I'm not. I can't stand to think of us growing apart, of losing this love. The tears burst from my eyes now, there is no holding them in.

I am afraid.

Afraid of losing you. Afraid of being broken. Afraid of missing out on chances because I'm too tangled up in wishing to be there. Afraid of missing you. Afraid of never being happy. Afraid of the future. Afraid of the distance. Afraid. I am so afraid.

I am lost.

Lost in the present. in the past, in the future. in life.

I don't know what to do.

I don't know how to fix this. I don't know what to do. I don't know if I can handle this all. If I am strong enough. I am weak, like slate, a stone, which appears as any stone, hard and strong and unbreakable, but instead is fragile and brittle and broken with the smallest stress.

Help me.

I can't lose you.

I need you.

I need change.

I need you.

P.S. Forgive me.forgive me for everything I'm not and everything I can'y be. Forgive me. Godm please forgive me.

Wild Child: A Film Review

2011-03-26T22:08:00.000-05:00

Tonight, I watched this movie for the second time. It's so very amusing! I highly reccomend it! :)

In Wild Child, Emma Roberts stars as Poppy Moore, a Malibu Beauty sent to a boarding school on the english countryside. She does absolutely everything to stand out and retain her indivifuality.

With the help of her misfit roommates, Poppy learns to maintain her individuality but without making people hate her.

This movie is so darling. I absolutely love it!

My Passion.

2011-03-26T18:43:00.000-05:00

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My two persistant (inanimate) passions are reading and writing. Today, I drove around for no reason, going no where, and found myself at Books-A-Million here in my mother's town. So in I went, knowing I couldn't buy anything if I intended to have gas and food for the ride home tomorrow, but I went anyway. Notebook and pen in hand I started a "Must read" list for myself. Due to my intense love of books I got a list three and a half pages long! I know where all my extra money will be going! <3
Definately be expecting review and quote posts!
To see the list CLICK HERE or go to my Listography page.

Perfect.

2011-03-26T07:00:00.002-05:00

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This isn't usually her style. It's not how she is. She's usually so prim, so propper, so modest, so well behaved, so... perfect. But right now, she's misbehaving. She's late for her appointment. She's not even dressed in decent clothing yet. Her room is a mess and she knows she's let them down. She dreaming a fantasy instead of focusing on reality. She's nothing she's ever been before, nothing they want her to be, but right now, living for herself, she couldn't feel more perfect.

Home.

2011-03-25T07:00:00.000-05:00

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She never quite felt at home like she did that day. Nestled in the dew coated grass, feeling the slight warms of the first morning sun. No one knew where she was. She wasn't even sure where she was. All she knew was that she was home. She'd escaped it all, the fighting, the tears, the expectations, the stress. She'd come home.

San Antonio

2011-03-24T15:51:00.001-05:00

I've been in San Antonio, Texas the past few days for Spring Break. It is truly an amazing town. Above are two views from my balcony. My room is actually overlooking the river (not the Riverwalk). I'm so very happy to be in San Antonio! It's magnificent! I've walked the entire Riverwalk and much of the downtown streets. I haven't gone to the Alamo, Sea World, etc. I did that last time I was in town, so this trip I've simply strolled streets, frequented cafes, and stopped along the way to take photos or simply to rest in the gentle reflief of the shade.
Last night, I went on a Ghost Walk tour and heard some ghost stories. I wasn't overly impressed with our guide but that's simply how things go. Tonight, I'll be taking a boat tour around the Riverwalk and having dinner at an adorable British Pub called "Mad Dog Pub." I'm looking forward to it all.
Right now, I'm sitting on my darling balcony listening to Owl City and watching the people who pass below. The sky is a clear, beautiful blue with frequent, large, puffy clouds floating by. I adore San Antonio! This trip has reminded me so much of Europe that I've begun to miss it quite dearly.
I hope the beginning of spring has been wonderful for all of you in the blogsphere as well! <3

Once upon a day...

2011-03-24T07:00:00.006-05:00

Once upon a day about 18 years ago, a girl was born. She was not exceptional and only special in the way every new born child is, but this baby girl would grow up to be nothing resembling normal.
This girl, at 18 years of age, dances in the rain, sings for no reason, and is determined to see the magic in the world. Obsessed with books, this young girl can often be caught reading or writing outside in the warm sun. She is often spotted in frilly dresses, but also in jeans, and shorts, and sweatpants, and skirts. She refuses to accept what others say she is and desires only to be and stay true to who she is. She found a lovely Prince about a year ago to love her and all of her oddities. She has one sister she would die for and several children (none her own) in her life.
This young princess is known by many names, but you may know her best as Raelynn. This is her life and thoughts and dreams and tales and wisdom and beliefs and theories all in a single blog. This will be consistantly inconsistant and perfectly contradicting as is true of the princess herself.

Previous Blogs:
In Such Short Time
Forever Raelynn

Unperfect Princess

Oh. My. Gods. : A Book Review

Balefire : A Book Review

Long time no see

Inspiration : Audrey Hepburn

To be a Lady.

I want love to be... undeniable... unquestionable...impractical...

Desole.

Secret Society : A Book Review

The Two Princesses of Bamarre : A Book Review

Live for you.

Free.

Something.

Bad Girls Don't Die : A Book Review

Always.

My bookshelf expands.

Princess Academy : A Book Review

Dirt and Gime : 3

Little (Grrl) LOST : A Book Review

Shadowland : A Book Review

Demon from the Dark : A Book Review

Rumors : A Book Review *Spoilers of first book*

Blue Moon : A Book Review *Spoilers into first book!*

Sunshine : A Book Review

The question.

1 year.

Moments.

Everything.

The Path.

Carolina. Aphrodite. Apollo.

Dirt and Grime : 2

Restless.

Parcels.

It's not easy.

Once a Witch : A Book Review

Summer.

Back to the Dirt and Grime.

Stay.

Paris.

Stars.

Ready.

Alone.

Ascension: A Book Review

I miss it.

Rift.

Wild Child: A Film Review

My Passion.

Perfect.

Home.

San Antonio

Once upon a day...

Rumors : A Book Review Spoilers of first book

Blue Moon : A Book Review Spoilers into first book!