Hello Everyone,
I just wanted to let you know after all the problems I've had with Blogger I decided to move my blog to a wordpress blog.
The adress of the new blog is:
The diary of a book addict
Every once in a while there will be a non book post that's why I set up this blog in the first place but because of the problems I decided to import this blog to the new one so you can find all the reviews and posts made here on the other website.
If you are an author you can still contact me on the same e-mailadress, I'm going to change everything in time. Just hit the contact me button and you can just contact me.
I hope of course that you'll all move with me to my new page, I'm still trying to figure out wordpress so it's not as perfect as this blog but I know it will get better in time.
sincerely,
Bookgirl
( ps: because the name bookgirl was taken I'll be known as Disneybookmama from now on ) So if you see a comment by this name you know who it is. )
Friday, June 15, 2012
Thursday, June 14, 2012
Review: Fifty shades of Grey by E.L. James
Title: Fifty shades of grey
Author: E.L. James
Pages: 526
Catagory: womens fiction
The story:
When literature student Anastasia Steele is drafted to interview the successful young entrepreneur Christian Grey for her campus magazine, she finds him attractive, enigmatic and intimidating. Convinced their meeting went badly, she tries to put Grey out of her mind - until he happens to turn up at the out-of-town hardware store where she works part-time.
The unworldly, innocent Ana is shocked to realize she wants this man, and when he warns her to keep her distance it only makes her more desperate to get close to him. Unable to resist Ana’s quiet beauty, wit, and independent spirit, Grey admits he wants her - but on his own terms.
Shocked yet thrilled by Grey's singular erotic tastes, Ana hesitates. For all the trappings of success – his multinational businesses, his vast wealth, his loving adoptive family – Grey is man tormented by demons and consumed by the need to control. When the couple embarks on a passionate, physical and daring affair, Ana learns more about her own dark desires, as well as the Christian Grey hidden away from public scrutiny.
Can their relationship transcend physical passion? Will Ana find it in herself to submit to the self-indulgent Master? And if she does, will she still love what she finds?
Erotic, amusing, and deeply moving, the Fifty Shades Trilogy is a tale that will obsess you, possess you, and stay with you forever.
( taken from goodreads )
The view of a book addict:
Hmmm this is diffrent….. That where my first thoughts about this book. Because I stepped away from my comfort zone lately I decided to give this book a chance. And I have to say I’m not sorry.
It wasn’t as schocking as I thought it would be. I had thought it would schock me more but it just didn’t. I really liked the story and just as Ana I got very frustrated with Christian and I’m dying to know his secret. The book left me with a sad feeling and I want to read the next one really bad
The verdict of a book addict:
A book that takes you by the hand and makes you feel like you’re the main character of the book. .
Total of Ratties:
Wednesday, June 13, 2012
A new blog
No don't worry I'm not giving this blog up, but I decided to start another blog about my everyday life. But it wil include a lot of bookstories too. And of course I will blog about my other passion: Disney. So if you want to you can check out my new blog here:
The diary of a book addict
The diary of a book addict
Monday, June 11, 2012
Guest post and giveaway Brenda Youngerman
As part of the blog tour here's a guest post by Brenda Youngerman, she's giving us 10 tips to become a (better) writer. I hope you enjoy her tips and thank you Brenda for taking the time to write them down.
10 tips for becoming a
better writer
1. Read, read, read, read – find books outside of
your genre to read, find books that are not the greatest and figure out what
went wrong!
2. Write from the heart – if you’re not feeling
what you’re writing how do you expect your readers to?
3. If you’re not sure about something – research!
And then do more research…..
4. Don’t write when you don’t feel like writing –
it will be a waste of time and energy – and you’ll probably end up deleting it all!
5. Don’t write something you wouldn’t feel
comfortable reading.
6. Devote a chunk of time to your craft
7. After writing a while go back and read out
loud what you’ve written -
see if it makes sense.
8. Use language when you write that you are most
comfortable speaking. We do not talk as if we do not use contractions – don’t
write that way!
9. Believe in yourself
10. Only do it if you love it …. You will not
become rich from it!
Personally, I write
because I believe my stories give people hope and dreams. My intent with all of
my books is to bring to light some subject that the read might not be aware of.
In the case of Skewered Halo, sibling rivalry is a huge issue that most people
think will just go away.
Author Bio
Brenda Youngerman
writes about stories that matter. A southern California native coming from a
very large family where she never felt like she fit in. “I was the youngest
member of a huge family and I never really felt like I belonged there.”
Her first novel,
Private Scars, was an expose of what happens to a victim of domestic abuse when
they have never been exposed to it. From the moment the first review came out
Youngerman realized her calling… that of the voice of the victims.. those who
don’t have the strength to speak for themselves. Since Private Scars (2006),
Youngerman has published a novel a year, each one exposing another social issue
that those in power choose not to discuss. “If one person is helped by one of
my novels, that is a good day.”
Skewered Halo takes a
look at the filth behind sibling rivalry that goes unnoticed by inattentive
parents. Brenda is currently at work at her eighth and ninth novel
(simultaneously).
Links to Buy
And here is the giveaway!
Review: Skewered Halo by Brenda youngerman
Title: skewered halo
Author: Brenda youngerman
Pages: 230 ( on my e-reader )
Catagory: Fiction/ thriller
The story:
Diane Newsome is the middle child born into a middle-class family. Her older sister, Brittany, has resented her existence from the moment she was born. Unbeknownst to their parents, Brittany convinces Diane that she was placed on the doorstep as an unwanted child, and she dare not make a wrong move or her place in the family will be in jeopardy. Years later, when Diane finally divulges this secret, her parents are aghast, yet her mother still sides with Brittany, even shunning Diane and her children. Then one day Diane comes home to find her entire life has been a lie ... and everything she held true was fabricated. Skewered Halo tells an incredible tale of murder, mayhem and treachery that delves into the bottomless depths of hatred and jealousy
( taken from goodreads )
The view of a book addict:
Lately I find myself reading books outside of my comfort zone, the story of this book spoke to meand that made me want to read it. first of all let me tell you that I really liked the writing style of this book, it was easy to read because of this.
I found the story very entertaining and I had a hard time putting the book down. I loved the whole mystery and throughout the book I tried to solve the case myself. I was a little bit surprised with the ending, it ended so suddenly.
The verdict of a book addict:
I’m glad I decided to give this book a chance althoug it’s a little out of my comfort zone of supernatural creatures. I loved the sory and I really loved the writing style.
Total of Ratties:
Tuesday, June 5, 2012
Review: Immortal hearts by Ellen Schreiber
Title: Immortal Hearts
Author: Ellen schreiber
Pages: 260
Catagory: young adult, vampires
The story:
Athena "Stormy" Sterling is coming to Dullsville, and Raven is both excited and panicked in anticipation of Alexander's little sister's visit. Alexander tells Raven that she and his sister have a lot in common, but can the mini-Raven be everything she hopes for? Alexander calls her Stormy for a reason.
Stormy's visit stirs up the perfect immortal whirlwind. Raven is forced to take a good look at what it would really mean to be a vampire in the Sterling family, aside from some of the things she already loves, like shunning the sun and sleeping in a coffin with Alexander. When Raven compares her life with Stormy's, she can see that it's not all starry skies and black roses. But Raven knows she's always wanted to be a vampire.
Alexander is as romantic and dreamy as ever, and though he keeps showing Raven how much he loves her, will she ultimately be able to convince him that it's the right thing to turn her?
This final chapter of Vampire Kisses' nocturnal romance will keep all mortal and immortal hearts racing
( taken from goodreads )
The view of a book addict:
I was so sad when I found out that this was the last book in this series. I wanted to read it so badly and then again I didn’t want it to end. Every year I got to read more about Raven and Alexander and now this is over. I loved their story, Alexander was a dream guy, I have wished that I would find a boyfriend just like him.
The story is great, just like every other book, they don’t get boring. I love Raven she’s just like me and every time I read about her I know again why I like vampires. I’m not going to spoil anything in this review, you just have to read it for yourself.
The verdict of a book addict:
A great ending to a wonderful seris, I will mis Raven and Alexander! I’ll just have to read the books over and over again.
Total of Ratties:
Friday, June 1, 2012
Author interview with Meira Pentermann
As part of the blog tour I had an interview with the author of Firefly Beach: Meira Pentermann. So give a warm welcome!
On slow, snowy days in her Colorado home, Meira
Pentermann enjoys cozying up on the couch with a novel. Naturally, snow is not
a requirement; neither is the couch. In fact, she sees no reason not to indulge
in reading three-hundred-and-sixty-five days a year. Apocalyptic science
fiction, mysteries, and young adult titles top her Kindle list, but legal
thrillers and chik-lit make an appearance now and then.
When not absorbed in writing or reading, Meira enjoys life’s little moments with her family – the love and devotion of her black lab, the quiet wisdom of her artistic twenty-one-year-old, the trials and triumphs of her petite sixth grader, and the unlimited encouragement offered by her Dutch husband.
Meira strives to write stories that deliver the unexpected. She prefers down-to-earth characters that look and behave like regular folks. The prom queen and Adonis take a backseat to reclusive, soul-searching heroines and quirky, introverted gentlemen.
1. Can you tell us a little bit about yourself?
Hi, Bookgirl. Thank you for inviting me! I live in Colorado with my Dutch husband. We have two daughters, one black lab, and two insane cats. I love to read everything from science fiction and thrillers to mysteries and children’s fantasy.
2. When did you first realize you wanted to become a writer?
I have been writing since I was twelve, mostly journals and poetry. During my thirties I had several story ideas, but I never got past a couple of chapters. In 2003, I sat down and wrote an entire novel in one month! At least I thought it was a novel. It was barely 50,000 words – not long enough to qualify as a novel – and it was frankly quite dreadful. Thankfully, I had no clue at the time. That first manuscript, which I shelved in 2007, allowed me to believe I could write a full-length novel. Faith in one’s self is a powerful thing.
3. What comes first? The story, the character(s) or the idea for the novel?
Interesting question. The essence of a story forms loosely in my mind when I least expect it, but a strong character also emerges shortly thereafter. Then additional characters and substantial story elements flood my brain with a mind of their own.
4. What would be your favorite pastime activity, when you are not writing?
Reading. Definitely. On a blissfully free afternoon, I have to force myself to leave the house and get some fresh air.
5. Are there any writers out there that have inspired you?
I have so many favorite authors as well as individuals who have inspired me over the years, but I will choose one woman who recently inspired me to self-publish FIREFLY BEACH after it went out of print (the first edition was released in March of 2009). I believe many of your readers will have heard of her – Tracey Garvis-Graves. Tracey and I met on a writer’s forum called AbsoluteWrite. She had this interesting story idea about a teenager and his tutor trapped on an island in the Maldives. I sent her a message asking if I could read it. She wanted to finish the novel to cross it off of her “bucket list”. We became writing buddies (call each other cyber-sister). Now she has a best-selling novel called ON THE ISLAND. She is delighted to be an indie author. In fact, she has turned down some interesting proposals, saying it is not worth it to have someone else choose her covers, set her deadlines, and tell her what to write. This really inspires me to embrace the personal power of indie publishing.
6. Can you tell a little more about your book: Firefly Beach?
Firefly Beach is a paranormal cozy mystery. A strange combination, I know. But it has both supernatural themes and a female sleuth who wasn’t expecting a mystery. It is a character-driven novel, and I love eccentric personalities, so you can expect some quirky characters roaming through the pages. I endeavored to take the reader on a vacation to the coast of Maine, visiting both the present and the 1970s. It is a story about accepting the past, settling unfinished business, and cherishing family. . . and it’s also a good old-fashioned mystery with a few supernatural elements to spice it up.
Blurb: When Beth LaMonte rents a cottage on the coast of Maine, she wishes only to withdraw and paint. A mysterious ball of light disturbs her peace and leads her to a secret beach where she finds the diary of a girl who disappeared in 1975. Now Beth is on a mission, not only to bury her own past, but to put to rest the spirit of Firefly Beach.
7. What inspired you to write this story?
FIREFLY BEACH developed in stages before it took off in my brain and wouldn’t leave me alone. I first envisioned the firefly in 2004 when my husband and I were on a retreat. We participated in a relaxation seminar. The instructor asked us to imagine a very safe and quiet space – a room, a meadow, whatever came to mind. I pictured a small beach secluded by high cliffs. But, honestly, relaxation exercises and I do not do well together. Thoughts run around in my brain in spite of my efforts to quiet them. Shortly after arriving at my special beach, a firefly joined me dancing around the cliff. Then a diary and the idea that it belonged to a long-lost girl.
That concept drifted to the back of my mind while I worked on another manuscript from 2004 through 2007. As soon as I declared that manuscript finished, the firefly returned to me, flooding me with ideas. I could not write them down fast enough. I realized that Beth’s story was far more compelling than the words I labored over for three years. At that moment, the old manuscript found its way to a shelf in the back of my closet, and I passionately dove into FIREFLY BEACH.
8. Which character did you enjoy writing about the most and why?
Great question. I enjoyed writing Kenny, the nerdish jeweler. I’m drawn to strange, vulnerable characters.
9. If you could have dinner with one of your characters who would you choose and why?
Oh, another great question. I would have to say Mary Schmidt, the proprietor of the bed and breakfast. She would definitely be the most entertaining. Full of gossip and sass – a great dinner companion.
10. Do you get a lot of responses from your readers?
Yes. I love hearing from readers. I receive emails from people who had to write to me the moment they put the book down. Nothing is more fulfilling than that.
11. What are you currently working on?’
I am currently working on a grade 3-6 novel called SARAH AND THE MAGIC MAYONNAISE JAR. This story offers further proof of my genre-commitment-phobia. I can’t seem to help myself. The novel should be available by the end of 2012. I am working with an outstanding new illustrator, Rachel Loftus, and I am excited to bring my daughter’s favorite story to life.
12. Is there anything you would like to say to your readers?
Thank you for reading this interview. As I said before, I love to hear from readers, so write to me any time at meira@meirapentermann.com and I will answer emails as soon as I can, pending other obligations. You can also friend me on Facebook or follow me on Twitter.
Thank you Meira Pentermann for taking the time to answer my questions. Now all I have to say to my readers is: Go read this book!
Author Bio
When not absorbed in writing or reading, Meira enjoys life’s little moments with her family – the love and devotion of her black lab, the quiet wisdom of her artistic twenty-one-year-old, the trials and triumphs of her petite sixth grader, and the unlimited encouragement offered by her Dutch husband.
Meira strives to write stories that deliver the unexpected. She prefers down-to-earth characters that look and behave like regular folks. The prom queen and Adonis take a backseat to reclusive, soul-searching heroines and quirky, introverted gentlemen.
1. Can you tell us a little bit about yourself?
Hi, Bookgirl. Thank you for inviting me! I live in Colorado with my Dutch husband. We have two daughters, one black lab, and two insane cats. I love to read everything from science fiction and thrillers to mysteries and children’s fantasy.
I have been writing since I was twelve, mostly journals and poetry. During my thirties I had several story ideas, but I never got past a couple of chapters. In 2003, I sat down and wrote an entire novel in one month! At least I thought it was a novel. It was barely 50,000 words – not long enough to qualify as a novel – and it was frankly quite dreadful. Thankfully, I had no clue at the time. That first manuscript, which I shelved in 2007, allowed me to believe I could write a full-length novel. Faith in one’s self is a powerful thing.
3. What comes first? The story, the character(s) or the idea for the novel?
Interesting question. The essence of a story forms loosely in my mind when I least expect it, but a strong character also emerges shortly thereafter. Then additional characters and substantial story elements flood my brain with a mind of their own.
4. What would be your favorite pastime activity, when you are not writing?
Reading. Definitely. On a blissfully free afternoon, I have to force myself to leave the house and get some fresh air.
5. Are there any writers out there that have inspired you?
I have so many favorite authors as well as individuals who have inspired me over the years, but I will choose one woman who recently inspired me to self-publish FIREFLY BEACH after it went out of print (the first edition was released in March of 2009). I believe many of your readers will have heard of her – Tracey Garvis-Graves. Tracey and I met on a writer’s forum called AbsoluteWrite. She had this interesting story idea about a teenager and his tutor trapped on an island in the Maldives. I sent her a message asking if I could read it. She wanted to finish the novel to cross it off of her “bucket list”. We became writing buddies (call each other cyber-sister). Now she has a best-selling novel called ON THE ISLAND. She is delighted to be an indie author. In fact, she has turned down some interesting proposals, saying it is not worth it to have someone else choose her covers, set her deadlines, and tell her what to write. This really inspires me to embrace the personal power of indie publishing.
6. Can you tell a little more about your book: Firefly Beach?
Firefly Beach is a paranormal cozy mystery. A strange combination, I know. But it has both supernatural themes and a female sleuth who wasn’t expecting a mystery. It is a character-driven novel, and I love eccentric personalities, so you can expect some quirky characters roaming through the pages. I endeavored to take the reader on a vacation to the coast of Maine, visiting both the present and the 1970s. It is a story about accepting the past, settling unfinished business, and cherishing family. . . and it’s also a good old-fashioned mystery with a few supernatural elements to spice it up.
Blurb: When Beth LaMonte rents a cottage on the coast of Maine, she wishes only to withdraw and paint. A mysterious ball of light disturbs her peace and leads her to a secret beach where she finds the diary of a girl who disappeared in 1975. Now Beth is on a mission, not only to bury her own past, but to put to rest the spirit of Firefly Beach.
7. What inspired you to write this story?
FIREFLY BEACH developed in stages before it took off in my brain and wouldn’t leave me alone. I first envisioned the firefly in 2004 when my husband and I were on a retreat. We participated in a relaxation seminar. The instructor asked us to imagine a very safe and quiet space – a room, a meadow, whatever came to mind. I pictured a small beach secluded by high cliffs. But, honestly, relaxation exercises and I do not do well together. Thoughts run around in my brain in spite of my efforts to quiet them. Shortly after arriving at my special beach, a firefly joined me dancing around the cliff. Then a diary and the idea that it belonged to a long-lost girl.
That concept drifted to the back of my mind while I worked on another manuscript from 2004 through 2007. As soon as I declared that manuscript finished, the firefly returned to me, flooding me with ideas. I could not write them down fast enough. I realized that Beth’s story was far more compelling than the words I labored over for three years. At that moment, the old manuscript found its way to a shelf in the back of my closet, and I passionately dove into FIREFLY BEACH.
8. Which character did you enjoy writing about the most and why?
Great question. I enjoyed writing Kenny, the nerdish jeweler. I’m drawn to strange, vulnerable characters.
9. If you could have dinner with one of your characters who would you choose and why?
Oh, another great question. I would have to say Mary Schmidt, the proprietor of the bed and breakfast. She would definitely be the most entertaining. Full of gossip and sass – a great dinner companion.
10. Do you get a lot of responses from your readers?
Yes. I love hearing from readers. I receive emails from people who had to write to me the moment they put the book down. Nothing is more fulfilling than that.
11. What are you currently working on?’
I am currently working on a grade 3-6 novel called SARAH AND THE MAGIC MAYONNAISE JAR. This story offers further proof of my genre-commitment-phobia. I can’t seem to help myself. The novel should be available by the end of 2012. I am working with an outstanding new illustrator, Rachel Loftus, and I am excited to bring my daughter’s favorite story to life.
12. Is there anything you would like to say to your readers?
Thank you for reading this interview. As I said before, I love to hear from readers, so write to me any time at meira@meirapentermann.com and I will answer emails as soon as I can, pending other obligations. You can also friend me on Facebook or follow me on Twitter.
Thank you Meira Pentermann for taking the time to answer my questions. Now all I have to say to my readers is: Go read this book!
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