March 30, 2012

REVIEW: Breathe by Abbi Glines

*Note: This is the PB cover
Title: Breathe (Sea Breeze #1)
Author: Abbi Glines
Publisher: Wild Child Publishing
Published: 17 May 2011
Format: Kindle ebook
Sadie White's summer job isn't going to be on the beach life-guarding or working at rental booths like most kids her age. With her single mother's increasing pregnancy and refusal to work, Sadie has to take over her mother's job as a domestic servant for one of the wealthy summer families on a nearby island.

When the family arrives at their summer getaway, Sadie is surprised to learn that the owner of the house is Jax Stone, one of the hottest teen rockers in the world. If Sadie hadn't spent her life raising her mother and taking care of the house she might have been normal enough to be excited about working for a rock star.

Even though Sadie isn't impressed by Jax's fame, he is drawn to her. Everything about Sadie fascinates Jax but he fights his attraction. Relationship's never work in his world and as badly as he wants Sadie, he believes she deserves more. By the end of the summer, Jax discovers he can't breathe without Sadie.
My Review:
Abbi Glines never ceases to me amaze with her books. Breathe is Abbi’s debut novel and I believe this is where all the magic started because this has to be my favorite of all the books she’s ever written and each of her books are incredible in their own way. Breathe just touched me more so than the others. It’s really heartfelt and so deep, I was more than swept away. 



I love the simplicity of the story and how Abbi was able to take an average girl, Sadie, and a rockstar, Jax, and weave them into this beautiful love story that will be forever etched into my heart and soul. Abbi truly does have a way with words and I’ve always loved the flow and fluidity of her writing and she brings it home in Breathe. I was so mesmerized while reading Breathe that I never ever wanted to leave the story that Abbi created.



Sadie has to be my most favorite main character of all characters Abbi has created. Sadie has this real fierce independence, she’s so determined, she’s confident and she really sets her mind on things. I was able to connect with her emotionally and mentally. I love how selfless she was and how she put herself above others. I really like that she didn’t depend on anyone but herself and that if she wanted something, she was going to get it or die trying. When she takes on her mom’s job as a domestic servant, I had no doubt she could do it. She just exuded this inner strength that made be believe she could handle anything. 



Jax Stone had me head over heels in love with him the moment he smiled that crooked smile of his. He just seemed so perfect. He was charming and sweet and downright lovable. I loved this innocence he had on the things he missed from being famous. There’s so much more to him than being a rockstar and I loved how Sadie and the readers get to see that. He really cared for Sadie. He loved and accepted her despite her situation and all the circumstances. Jax Stone made me want to close my eyes, crawl into his lap and stay there forever.

I adored the blossoming romance in Breathe. I thought it was absolutely wonderful how Jax and Sadie slowly got to know the each other, became friends and then turned out to be these two people who were so in love that I felt it inside of me. Their love was breath-taking and so inspirational. So full of real emotion. Their relationship was everything I hoped for and more. It was ough to see everything they went through; all the troubles and heartache. I couldn’t help but hope and pray that it would all work out in the end. I was rooting for the both of them because I knew they needed each other. I knew that they belonged together like no one else. So it really broke my heart to see Sadie so sad. I felt her pain and sorrow like it was my own. Like a thousand knives stabbing you all at once. My heart shattered for Sadie. To watch this girl go from being this strong person who was full of life and break down the way she did was just too much for me to handle. It was heart-breaking and I wanted nothing more than to comfort her.



Another one of Abbi’s many talents is being able to make the reader fall in love with all the other secondary characters. I definitely had a soft spot for Marcus. He was such a sweetheart. He became Sadie’s first friend in the mansion and I loved how he felt this deep need to protect her. I couldn’t help but love him too, so it made me really sad how things went down for him. I thought he took it very well. Another character I loved was Ms. Mary. Sadie really needed a mother figure and she got one from Ms. Mary. It really touched me to see how much Ms. Mary loved and cared for Sadie. She treated Sadie like her own daughter, like she was always a part of the family and their moments together brought tears to my eyes. I also enjoyed Amanda, Preston and Jason. They were great characters that really brought the story together.

Overall, Breathe is another one of Abbi’s magical, heart-warming, and swoon-worthy creations that will make you smile to no end and wish you had a rockstar boyfriend just like Jax. It’s a fairy-tale dream come true <3



My Rating: 5 out of 5 ROCKSTARS!


 


Get to know Abbi & her amazing books:
Blog | Twitter | Facebook

Purchase Breathe:
Paperback | Kindle ebook

Want a signed copy of Breathe? Or want to read excerpts?
Just go HERE.

March 29, 2012

REVIEW: Predestined by Abbi Glines

Title: Predestined (Existence Trilogy #2)
Author: Abbi Glines
Publisher: Wild Child Publishing
Publication Date: 3 April 2012
Format: eARC*
You would think after helping save her boyfriend from an eternity in Hell that things would go back to normal. Well, as normal as life can be when you can see souls and your boyfriend is Death. But for Pagan Moore, things are just getting weirder.

The high school quarterback and reigning heartthrob, Leif Montgomery, is missing. While the town is in a frenzy of worry, Pagan is a nervous wreck for other reasons. Apparently good ‘ol Leif isn’t your average teenage boy. He isn’t even human. According to Death, Leif doesn’t have a soul. The quarterback may have skipped town but he’s still showing up in Pagan’s dreams... uninvited.

Dank has known from the beginning Leif wasn’t human. But he hadn’t worried about a simple soulless creature. Now, he realizes he made a grave mistake. Pagan’s soul has been marked since birth as a restitution, to a spirit so dark not even Death walks near it. Dank knows saving Pagan’s soul won’t be easy but Pagan is his. And he’s already proven he’ll defy Heaven to keep her. If Hell wants a piece of him too, then bring it on.
My Review:
Predestined by Abbi Glines is a sequel even better than the first. It’s edgier, sexier and will definitely take you by surprise at every turn. Predestined takes place a month after the ending to Existence where Abbi drops the biggest bomb on her readers. In this book, the decisions that the characters make will have devastating consequences that will change Pagan’s life forever.



I was so glad to be back into Pagan and Dank’s world. It was like a breath of fresh air that I hadn’t been able to take in for a very long time. I was more than happy to see that this time around the book is split into the perspectives of Pagan and Dank. I love Pagan to death (no pun intended, lol) but it’s so nice to be able to see things through Dank’s eyes. I really got to know him better and was able to see the depth of his love and concern for Pagan. Dank’s love for her really shows in everything that he does. I was also able to understand more of what he does as Death. It was endearing to see Dank vulnerable and to show such deep emotion and care towards the souls. It was a whole other side of him that I loved reading about. I love Abbi even more for doing this. I can never get enough of Dank.

In Predestined, Pagan and Dank’s relationship evolve from Existence and it continues to grow in strength throughout the book. I love how unbreakable and strong their love is to the point where they really go through Hell to stay together. Pagan and Dank’s love knows no bounds and is a force to be reckoned with. The moments that they have together will definitely melt any heart. I couldn’t help but love both of them more than I ever did before.

I was especially excited to see that Leif was back in Predestined. After that hair-pulling reaction I got from the ending of Existence, it had me questioning everything I knew about Leif. To find out the truth about him and why he’s a soulless creature was a complete shock. I don’t want to spoil it for anyone, but I never did see it coming and I thought it was brilliant Abbi weaved that aspect into Pagan’s life. It made the story even more exciting and thrilling. It’s such a refreshing and interesting idea that made me admire Abbi’s creativity even further. 



Pagan’s dreams that seem to center around Leif was another mystery that gets unveiled that really touched my heart and made me ache for Leif. I couldn’t bring myself to hate him in any way. Soulless or not, I really do like Leif. I believed he really does love Pagan and cares for her more than anything. However, I was disappointed in him with some of the decisions he made when it came to Pagan. I found him to be a little selfish, but I knew he meant well.



I loved Predestined even more because of the immense amount of humor that was put into the book especially with Gee’s character. I really loved Gee in Existence so I was more than ecstatic to see her back with Pagan and Dank. Their banter really light up the dark parts of the book.

I must say that Pagan continued to impress me in Predestined. Her strength, courage and willingness to sacrifice herself for her loved ones is immense and very admiring. In the book, Pagan says she’s not selfless, but to me she is. She’s amazing.

Overall, Predestined is astounding. The pacing to the book is perfect and there was never any dull moments at all. Abbi was able to surprise the heck out of me and add in some really creepy and sinister aspects into the book. She had me engaged through it all, left me speechless long before the end, and kept me from ever forgetting such an incredible story. 



Abbi will surely have her readers (including me) begging for more.

My Rating: 

5 out of 5 stars



*A big THANK YOU to Abbi for sending me an eARC of Predestined. In no way does Abbi have any influence over my opinion/review of this book. It is solely my own. 
 


Connect with Abbi Glines and check out her other books:
Blog | Twitter | Facebook

March 28, 2012

Waiting on Wednesday #15

Waiting on Wednesday is a weekly meme hosted by Jill @ Breaking the Spine where you share an upcoming release that you're anticipating on reading.

I'm waiting on..
Expected Publication: June 5, 2012

NOTE: If you haven't read The Vincent Boys, beware that the summary has spoilers and possibly my 'Why I'm waiting' section too. Read with caution!

Goodreads Summary:
He may have given her up without a fight, but Sawyer Vincent is far from over losing the girl he’s loved all of his life. Instead of giving up his best friend and the girl he thought he’d spend forever with, he gave Ashton and his brother Beau his blessing. However, adjusting to seeing Ashton wrapped up in Beau’s arms isn’t easy. Complicating everything even more, Ashton’s cousin Lana is in town for the summer. Sweet, kind, soft-spoken Lana, who gets under his skin. Just being near her makes him forget all about Ashton and his broken heart.

Lana is everything he wanted Ashton to be except she isn’t Ashton. She lacks the backbone to stand up for herself and confidence that Ashton wears like a crown. Lana McDaniel has lived her life in her cousin's shadow. While Lana struggled with her grades no matter how hard she tried, her mother praised Ashton's intelligence. She hadn’t been blessed with Ashton’s blond hair and flawless skin, but that didn't keep her mother from lamenting her naturally red hair and freckles. But none of that would have mattered if Ashton hadn’t always had Sawyer Vincent wrapped around her finger -- the only boy Lana wanted. Once Ashton let Sawyer go, Lana had been so sure that he’d move on. Determined to make Sawyer finally see her, she'd talked her mother into letting her spend the summer with Ashton. But Sawyer is still in love with Ashton, and Lana isn’t going to be anyone's rebound girl. No matter how yummy Sawyer Vincent’s kisses taste.

Why I'm waiting?

1. It's Abbi Glines!
Abbi wrote Breathe, The Vincent Boys, Existence, Because of Low and Predestined! I have read every single one of her books (except Because of Low which I'm starting soon) and I loved them all! Every book she comes out with is another must-read on my list. I freaking love Abbi's work so there is no way I'm patiently waiting for this one. I need it know. SO BAD. After I read Because of Low, I'm all out of Abbi books until The Vincent Brothers releases and well, I don't think I can handle that. LOL! June needs to come quick!

2. Ash & Beau.
I know this book isn't centered on Ash or Beau, but Abbi said we get to see them which is perfectly fine by me. I loved them both so much in The Vincent Boys, I couldn't get enough. I'll take what I can get when it comes to those two. They are so cute together and I want to see them be an actual couple! It'll be nice to see them again :)

3. Sawyer Vincent.
Let's just say I have a soft spot for the other love interests in all of Abbi's books, but especially Sawyer. Not sure why, maybe because TVB is the first of Abbi's books I've read or maybe because of the situation he was put in, but I adore Sawyer. You don't get to see much of him in TVB, not until the end, so I definitely want to know him better. I also felt really bad for Sawyer and I'm hoping he gets his own happy ending too.

4. Lana McDaniel.
I got to know very little about her in TVB, but when Abbi announced there would be another book I had a feeling Lana would be back and I was right! I can't say if I like or dislike Lana since she barely showed up in the first book, but I've loved every MC of Abbi's so I have no doubt. Already, Lana and Sawyer look good together. I think they are more alike and compatible with each other compared to Sawyer and Ash. Not sure how Ash will feel about her cousin dating Sawyer, but who knows! At this point anything can happen. I won't be surprised (ok maybe I will!) if Abbi decides to switch them all up in the end. LOL! Just kidding! 

The Vincent Brothers is not available for Pre-order just yet. However, Abbi has a giveaway going on for anyone who has reviewed The Vincent Boys on Amazon.  More info HERE.

Get to know Abbi Glines & all her awesome books!

Look out for my reviews for Breathe and Predestined -- coming soon!

What are you waiting on?
Let me know with links to your WoW posts in the comments!

March 27, 2012

Teaser Tuesday #13

Teaser Tuesday is weekly meme hosted by MizB from Should Be Reading.

I present you this week's teaser:
*Note: This is the ebook cover
Breathe by Abbi Glines (Sea Breeze #1)

He slipped a finger under my chin and tilted my face up. "Nothing about you is boring. Just watching you think is entertaining." Location 717

He gave me a sheepish grin. "Sadie, when you smile at me it makes me heart do crazy things." Location 921

*sigh* Doesn't that make your heart melt?
I freaking love this book <3
Look out for my review very very soon :)

March 26, 2012

REVIEW: Slide by Jill Hathaway

Title: Slide (Slide #1)
Author: Jill Hathaway | Jill's Blog
Publisher: Balzer + Bray (HarperCollins)
Publication Date: 27 March 2012
Format: ARC, 256 pages
Goodreads Summary:


Vee Bell is certain of one irrefutable truth—her sister’s friend Sophie didn’t kill herself. She was murdered.

Vee knows this because she was there. Everyone believes Vee is narcoleptic, but she doesn’t actually fall asleep during these episodes: When she passes out, she slides into somebody else’s mind and experiences the world through that person’s eyes. She’s slid into her sister as she cheated on a math test, into a teacher sneaking a drink before class. She learned the worst about a supposed “friend” when she slid into her during a school dance. But nothing could have prepared Vee for what happens one October night when she slides into the mind of someone holding a bloody knife, standing over Sophie’s slashed body.

Vee desperately wishes she could share her secret, but who would believe her? It sounds so crazy that she can’t bring herself to tell her best friend, Rollins, let alone the police. Even if she could confide in Rollins, he has been acting off lately, more distant, especially now that she’s been spending more time with Zane.

Enmeshed in a terrifying web of secrets, lies, and danger and with no one to turn to, Vee must find a way to unmask the killer before he or she strikes again.



My Review:
Slide by Jill Hathaway wasn’t anything I was expecting at all. I was completely blown away, moved, and utterly amazed to bits by the whole story. Jill brings in this compelling and immensely thrilling story about a girl, Vee, who slides into people by touching an imprinted object all the while being able to literally see through their eyes. Jill take this idea further when Vee slides into someone murdering her sister’s best friend. Slide brings the added suspense and mystery that everyone will love. 



It’s an understatement to say that Slide was extraordinary or brilliant. To me, it was so much more than that. Jill Hathaway did a great job with the development of the plot, the storyline, Vee’s special talent and all the characters. She really brings in that creepy and scary feeling you get when it comes to murder mysteries. 



The pacing was more than perfect, but spectacular. I was on the edge of my seat throughout the whole book, waiting for the next intense moment to come. Readers will definitely devour this book so quick, they won’t know what hit them! It’s going to take their breath away. 

Vee is incomparable to any character I’ve encountered. I love how she’s so human, so real, but the depth of her personality and characteristics are complex and individualistic. I love her compassion, her determination to help others, her selfishness and caring nature. She’s so cool, level-headed and she stands out of from the rest. She’s even got awesome pink hair! She’s got guts and spunk and she has this strong and clear voice that really drew me into her mind. I was able to connect to Vee on a very deep level. I really felt what she was going through, the difficulty with not knowing who to turn to, to talk to, not knowing who will understand her. For me, Vee is not only the most the vital and unforgettable part in the book, but the most lovable. 



The added super natural element of Vee’s special talent is the perfect touch to this book. I love how Jill Hathaway describes her powers in detail where I got to know the ins and outs and all the rules of Vee’s power, but was still able to leave the sense of mystery to how and why Vee could do what she could do. I also enjoyed Vee’s acceptance towards her ability to the point where she uses it to help find out who the murderer is. I thought it was a good way to show how Vee was growing into her ability and seeing it as a gift rather than curse or a problem.

I loved how I was able to connect and get to know the secondary characters fairly well. They all played a part in moving the plot and keeping the story flowing. I enjoyed seeing Vee’s sister, Mattie, transform into a young, naive and somewhat selfish character to a vulnerable, touching and supportive younger sister to Vee. I really felt for Mattie too. I can only imagine the pain and suffering she went through. I really learned to admire her when she finally realized that it was time to grow up. I also loved Rollins and his concern for Vee. He’s a good best friend to Vee despite their tension between one another, I really felt the deep and unbreakable bond that they have. And Zane. There is so much I want to say about him. He’s adorable, sweet, kind, and smart. Every time he showed up on page, I had this sense of relief and ease. I thought Zane was a wonderful character and I absolutely loved his connection with Vee. I loved their blossoming romance and all the moments they spent together. I couldn’t help but sigh with longing and my heart couldn’t help but skip a beat when it came to Zane.

Slide kept me guessing at every turn. I suspected everyone and everything! It was so crazy, the tension and the need to find out who was committing the murders was palpable. I was completely engrossed within the book that I was taken by surprise by every unveiled secret. By the end, I was completely shattered and heart broken but most importantly satisfied with the turn of the events. 



Over all, Slide is an excellent debut! Tied with twists, lies and secrets, Jill gives the book a very dark feel that is so intoxicatingly spellbinding. Slide is not only a must-read, it’s a must-have for every book lover’s shelf. 



My Rating: 5 out of 5 stars

March 25, 2012

Book Haul #14


A book haul feature that shares items, such as books and swag, that I received within the week. 

FOR REVIEW:
  *Click the book cover to go to the Goodreads page
The Immortal Rules by Julie Kagawa
Innocent Darkness by Suzanne Lazear
  *Thanks to Netgalley, HarlequinTeen & Flux :)
Paraglide by Peter Anthony Kelley
Intangible by J. Meyers
  *Thanks to Peter and J. Meyers :)

BOOKS BOUGHT: 

RECEIVED:
  • Innocent Darkness stickers (2)
  • It's Okay to Read YA! stickers (2)
  • Innocent Darkness bookmark (signed)
  • A Temptation of Angels bookmark
  • A Temptation of Angels bookplate (signed & personalized)
  • A Temptation of Angels postcard (signed w/ message)

  *Many thanks to Suzanne Lazear and Michelle Zink for the swag <3 

FREEBIE:

What's in your book haul?
Leave me a link so I can check out your awesome haul!

March 24, 2012

REVIEW: Clockwork Prince by Cassandra Clare

Title: Clockwork Prince (The Infernal Devices #2)
Author: Cassandra Clare
Publisher: Margaret K. McElderry Books
Published: 6 December 2011
Format: First Edition Hardcover, 498 pages
Goodreads Summary:
In the magical underworld of Victorian London, Tessa Gray has at last found safety with the Shadowhunters. But that safety proves fleeting when rogue forces in the Clave plot to see her protector, Charlotte, replaced as head of the Institute. If Charlotte loses her position, Tessa will be out on the street and easy prey for the mysterious Magister, who wants to use Tessa's powers for his own dark ends.With the help of the handsome, self-destructive Will and the fiercely devoted Jem, Tessa discovers that the Magister's war on the Shadowhunters is deeply personal. He blames them for a long-ago tragedy that shattered his life. To unravel the secrets of the past, the trio journeys from mist-shrouded Yorkshire to a manor house that holds untold horrors, from the slums of London to an enchanted ballroom where Tessa discovers that the truth of her parentage is more sinister than she had imagined. When they encounter a clockwork demon bearing a warning for Will, they realize that the Magister himself knows their every move and that one of their own has betrayed them.Tessa finds her heart drawn more and more to Jem, though her longing for Will, despite his dark moods, continues to unsettle her. But something is changing in Will; the wall he has built around himself is crumbling. Could finding the Magister free Will from his secrets and give Tessa the answers about who she is and what she was born to do?As their dangerous search for the Magister and the truth leads the friends into peril, Tessa learns that when love and lies are mixed, they can corrupt even the purest heart.

My Review:
Tessa Gray’s story continues to unravel in next installment of The Infernal Devices with Clockwork Prince. Two weeks have passed from the events at the end of Clockwork Angel to the beginning of Clockwork Prince. The problems left behind in the first book arise here in book two. Some are answered, possibly hinted at, and some are still a mystery. 



Cassandra Clare always seems to quickly capture my attention in all her books and Clockwork Prince is no exception. Cassie intricately weaves in adventure with humor, love and passion with excitement, fear and discovery with betrayals and lies all compiled down into one engrossing and more than just an addicting story. 



The need to find the Magister in Clockwork Price is more urgent and evident than ever. It all comes down to whether Charlotte and Henry can find him and keep the Institute within their grasp or lose it to Benedict Lightwood, who in my opinion is more than despicable as they come. All the while, Will continues to struggle with his inner demons and the past that he seems to hide away in secret. Tessa and Jem grow closer and closer with each passing day. Tessa is more than curious about her own past, where she came from and who her parents really were. She grows to love everyone in the Institute and is now more than ever caught between two most handsome Shadowhunter boys. 



I’ve come to grow very fond of the trio that is Will, Tessa and Jem. I was very pleased to see a different side to Will. He’s definitely got that heart of gold I knew he had from the start. It was nice to see that wall he built so perfectly came crumbling down. I enjoyed watching him transform from the person he was in Clockwork Angel, to the person he became at the end of this book. It was nice to finally see the real William Herondale. Also, I was more than happy to get more Jem and Tessa interaction. I’m still on the fence between Jem and Will, but I love how Cassie gives both them a chance to show Tessa just how much they love her. It’s such a relief to finally read a love triangle that makes sense, at least to me. I thought that after this book, I could decide who’s Team I’m really on, but I think I’m just as confused as Tessa is. They are both wonderful in their own way and I can’t really blame Tessa for loving Jem and Will. I do have to comment on the fact that this book was much hotter and sexier than the last. The scene with Tessa and Jem literally took my breath away. I wanted more of that! It made my head spin because I never thought Jem could be so daring. I always saw him as this tender flame, bright and brilliant, but soft and caring. I wasn’t expecting that side of him for sure. I do admit that I did find Jem more likable than Will in this one. I wanted to wrap my arms around Jem and never ever left go. He’s just too good and it breaks my heart when I see him in pain. The scenes with Will and Tessa didn’t give me that same feeling, but I think it’s a good thing because it gives Jem a moment to shine. However, I did learn to understand Will more in this one. I don’t agree with all the things he’s done or the decisions he’s made, but I finally see Will for just who he is. Moreover, the scenes were wonderful and left me awestruck and the interactions with all three of them were always amusing and fun to read.

“I could not tell you if I loved you the first moment I saw you, or if it was the second or third or fourth. But I remember the first moment I looked at you walking toward me and realized that somehow the rest of the world seemed to vanish when I was with you.” 

For me, Clockwork Prince was little slower paced than the previous book. This did not take away the overall enjoyment, but I did wish things speeded up a bit. I specifically enjoyed the plot twists and finding out who was really on Tessa’s side, so to speak. I admit that the betrayal came to no surprise. In fact, I kind of expected it but I was hoping it wasn’t true for the sake of the other characters that would be betrayed. I didn’t expect a lot of revelations that happened with the characters, especially some of their identities, but I sure loved the overall realization. I was also surprised to find some loyalties were switched over and that some characters were not as bad as I first thought.

I do have to comment on the lack of build-up in this book. I was looking for a big showdown near the end, but was slightly disappointed. Not to say I didn’t like the end, because I most certainly did. It left me with all kinds of emotions that I have no words for. I was heart-broken near the end, but mostly satisfied even without the climax I was waiting for. I was surprised at Tessa’s decision, not because I don’t agree with her, but I think she needed to think it out thoroughly. Even though my questions for Tessa are still not answered, I think the mystery of her identity is still appealing. I’m glad Cassie decided to hide it still. I have a feeling she will give me that surprise in Clockwork Princess.

All in all, Clockwork Prince was just as amazing as Clockwork Angel. I was surely absorbed by the whole story and shocked many times over. I enjoyed the fact that the characters were even more developed, that Cassie still brought in wonderful descriptions of London and York and the overall feeling I was left with the book: content and more than excited for the next. 



My Rating: 5 out of 5 stars. 


March 22, 2012

REVIEW: ReVamped by Ada Adams

Title: ReVamped (Angel Creek #1)
Author: Ada Adams
Published: 20 February 2012
Format: Kindle ebook: 299 pages*
Nineteen-year-old vampire Dawn has led a sheltered life within the confines of her father’s presidential headquarters. Upon being sent on a mission to revamp four goofy misfits into guardians of a peaceful little town of Angel Creek, Dawn believes that all her dreams have finally come true. What starts off as a simple task, turns into something unexpected, changing Dawn’s life forever and leading the action-loving, thrill-seeking vampire teen on a path of mystery, danger and intrigue. 
When a human girl is kidnapped by a group of rogue vamps, Dawn discovers that there is more going on in Angel Creek than meets the eye. And it all connects to Ethan, the cute newcomer who seems too perfect to be true, Sebastian, the mysterious vampire with a turbulent past, and even Dawn herself. Dawn must not only succeed in revamping the troubled recruits, but must also prevent the vampire race from being overtaken by a malevolent villain who has a strange and obsessive fascination with her. As threat escalates, romance blooms, and ghosts from her past begin to surface, Dawn is sure of only one thing: her life will never be the same.


My Review:
ReVamped by Ada Adams is not your typical vampire story. Ada Adams took the idea of vampires and built her own story around it with added fun and flare that is completely engrossing and highly entertaining. I fell completely head over heels in love with this book from the moment I read it. 



The world that Ada has built up in ReVamped is originally unique, downright amazing and possibly even better than the world we live in now. In ReVamped, vampires live peacefully side by side with humans. Not only do they live together with minimal problems, but the humans absolutely adore the vampires to the extent where they sell products like Blood Cola, Blood Beer, Blood Vodka and various bloody snacks. Even more so, vampires are sought to become celebrities in Hollywood. I especially enjoyed the fact that there is a separate U.S. Vampire President with their own house, called Scarlet House. I also loved learning the differences between vampires: the Made and the Born, along with the different aspects of the way Ada made her vampires that I found to be creative and well thought out. 



The main character Dawn, is a Born vampire and one fierce warrior. The best fighter at that, according to the Vampire President, who is her father. She has been sheltered within the Scarlet House always training and learning new things. Finally, Dawn’s father gives her a simple mission to go to Angel Creek to train four vampires to become the small town’s new guardians. At first, the mission seems simple enough, until it becomes obvious someone is hunting Dawn. I must say that I love Dawn. She’s got this fire personality and she really kicks butt. I was able to connect and relate to her almost instantly. She’s strong and loyal. She’s a good friend and wonderful person all the way. She kind and has a big heart. I adored her from the moment she appeared on page. To me, Dawn was more human than the other characters in the book, including the humans themselves. I really loved her spunk, her confidence and this set determination that she had throughout the whole book. 



The other characters are developed very well. Each have their own separate personalities and voices. They were all distinguishable from one another and I enjoyed getting to know each and every one of them. I love how well rounded the characters were. None of them blended and each were very memorable. I thought it was brilliant of Ada to take a group of seven, make them all different from one another, but still keep them working together as an incredible dynamic. I loved the transformation of the group and it left me in awe to see how much they changed, improved, and cared for one another by the end. I do hope to learn more about Ethan and Sebastian and their relationship with Dawn in the upcoming books. I can’t get enough of these characters. 



The overall pacing to ReVamped was just right. No parts seemed too slow or too fast and I was easily lost into the world that Ada created. I enjoyed everything within this book and had no problem visualizing the story in my mind. It was easy to read and understand, it’s no wonder I devoured this book in one sitting. It’s just too good to put down, too irresistible to resist. 



What I love most about ReVamped was all the emotions and feelings the book was able to evoke from me along with the surprises it brought. I found myself smiling and laughing at many parts and I even cried at this very intense scene. The build-up to the ending was crazy good and I was so thrilled from all the suspense. The twists and turns and epic revelations were shocking that completely took me off guard. I wasn’t expecting a lot of those things to happen and I was blown-away by those moments. 



All in all, ReVamped is wonderfully delightful read that will grab your attention from the start, keep you intrigued, and have you wishing there was more at the end. I can’t wait for the next book and whatever Ada Adams has in store for these characters I ended up loving so much.

My Rating: 

5 out of 5 stars

*Many thanks to Ada for sending me a copy of her amazing book! She has no influence over my opinion/review of this book. It is solely my own.

Connect with Ada Adams:
Website | Goodreads | Twitter | Facebook

Purchase ReVamped:
Print copy | Kindle ebook

March 21, 2012

Waiting on Wednesday #14

Waiting on Wednesday is a weekly meme hosted by Jill @ Breaking the Spine where you share an upcoming release that you're anticipating on reading.

This week's WOW is..
Expected Publication Date: August 7, 2012

Goodreads Summary:
In this follow-up to Anna Dressed in Blood, Cas begins seeing Anna everywhere: sometimes when he’s asleep, and sometimes in waking nightmares. But something is very wrong. These aren’t just daydreams. Anna seems tortured, torn apart in new and ever more gruesome ways every time she appears. 

Cas doesn’t know what happened to Anna when she disappeared into Hell, but he knows she doesn’t deserve whatever is happening to her now. Anna saved Cas more than once, and it’s time for him to return the favor.


Why I'm waiting?

1. Ghost Aspect.
I am a sucker for anything remotely related to horror and/or scary things that make your skin crawl. I'm in for that exhilaration and thrill that keeps you on edge all the time. Anna Dressed in Blood did this for me and I just know Girl of Nightmares will do the same, if not better. Bring on the terrifying, creepy moments because I cannot wait any longer! 

2. End of Anna Dressed in Blood
So the ending of Anna made me scream, literally. I mean, how the heck can you leave us hanging like that! All I knew when I finished Anna was that I WANTED, NEEDED, HAD TO HAVE... MORE! I'm not saying the ending was cliffhangery (is that even a word? well, it is now!), but it's those types of endings where you're like "WHAAAT? THAS IT!? Where's the rest?!" And then you constantly turn the page back and forth hoping more will materialize! It's awesome. 

3. Anna
I need more of Anna, herself. It wasn't enough just to have some part of her! I wanted to get to know her more. I wanted to see more of the wonderful girl I know she really is behind the demons that haunt her. Anna is an amazing character and if I'm being completly honest, I kind of wish I was her (minus the ghost and blood part) because of reason 4..

4. Cas Lowood.
Yes. I went there! I. Love. This. Boy. I cannot deny my true feelings for Cas! I would totally follow him to the ends of the Earth even if he has to drag me on his ghost hunting trips just so I can be near him, next to him, around him, preferably glued to him. ;) I adore his snarky attitude, his confidence, his strength, his kick-assness, his witty comebacks and the brightness he brings to the dark parts in the book. Honestly, I just miss him so much. He makes me laugh and he makes me smile and he makes my skin shiver every time I go back and read a few of his lines. So you cannot blame me why I NEED Girl of Nightmares. I just want to be around Cas again :) <3

5. This Quote.
“She's my purpose and we're going to save each other. We're going to save everyone. And then I'm going to convince her that she's supposed to stay here. With me.” 
*sigh* That is all <3


Pre-order Girl of Nightmares:

What are you waiting on?
Leave me a link to your WoW!

March 20, 2012

Teaser Tuesday #12

Teaser Tuesday is weekly meme hosted by MizB from Should Be Reading.

My teaser comes from..
ReVamped by Ada Adams (Angel Creek #1)

"You have the most beautiful eyes," he suddenly said, once again, making me feel thankful for not being able to blush. Location 363
A dark-eyed, spiky-haired teen appeared from a shadowy corner. He lunged at me; clutching a wooden stake in one hand and holding onto a clove of garlic in the other. His face was stern and brave, but his big hands trembled with fear. Location 586

What did you think of my teasers? 


I've already read and finished writing my review for ReVamped. I can tell you already that I loved it <3. My review will go up Thursday, so look out for that. :)
In the meantime, get to know Ada Adams:

Website | Twitter

Leave me links to your teasers, so I can check them out :)

March 19, 2012

REVIEW: Clockwork Angel by Cassandra Clare

Title: Clockwork Angel (The Infernal Devices #1)
Author: Cassandra Clare
Publisher: Margaret K. McElderry Books
Published: 31 August 2010
Format: First Edition Hardcover; 476 pages
Goodreads Summary:
When sixteen-year-old Tessa Gray crosses the ocean to find her brother, her destination is England, the time is the reign of Queen Victoria, and something terrifying is waiting for her in London's Downworld, where vampires, warlocks and other supernatural folk stalk the gaslit streets. Only the Shadowhunters, warriors dedicated to ridding the world of demons, keep order amidst the chaos. Kidnapped by the mysterious Dark Sisters, members of a secret organization called The Pandemonium Club, Tessa soon learns that she herself is a Downworlder with a rare ability: the power to transform, at will, into another person. What's more, the Magister, the shadowy figure who runs the Club, will stop at nothing to claim Tessa's power for his own.
Friendless and hunted, Tessa takes refuge with the Shadowhunters of the London Institute, who swear to find her brother if she will use her power to help them. She soon finds herself fascinated by--and torn between--two best friends: James, whose fragile beauty hides a deadly secret, and blue-eyed Will, whose caustic wit and volatile moods keep everyone in his life at arm's length...everyone, that is, but Tessa. As their search draws them deep into the heart of an arcane plot that threatens to destroy the Shadowhunters, Tessa realizes that she may need to choose between saving her brother and helping her new friends save the world...and that love may be the most dangerous magic of all.

My Review:
I’m a huge fan of Cassandra Clare’s. I loved The Mortal Instruments so much that I knew I had to pick up her new Shadowhunter series, The Infernal Devices.

After reading the first three books in The Mortal Instruments, I had very high hopes for Clockwork Angel and I must say that Cassie did not disappoint me one bit. Clockwork Angel is just as exciting and adventurous as her other series. I adore the Shadow World and was glad to be able to dive into the workings of the Shadow World from the 1800s.



I’m not a big fan of historical fiction, but the way Cassie weaves the story with history aspects into the Shadow World was amazing. I was enraptured throughout the whole book. I enjoyed reading and imagining the descriptive places Cassie describes in the book. I love how she added real and fake places in London and I absolutely adore the fact that the book is set in London to begin with. What I love about Clockwork Angel was the fact that I actually understood the writing. I was able to absorb every word on each page. I didn’t struggle with the language at all. 



I specifically love how Cassie always seems to draw you into the book with just the first page alone. Right when I started, I knew I had to keep reading. I just had to know what was going on, had to know who Tessa was and why she became what she is now. I love how Cassie develops the characters so nicely that I was able to fall in love with them instantly. Cassie still added in that mystery where we still don’t know all about characters past and secrets and I think that’s brilliant of her.

I love Tessa’s strength and courage from the start of the book and throughout the whole story. Tessa shines through and through. I absolutely adore her along with her determination and her persistence. I love her independence and just the way she carries herself. She’s another great heroine in the Shadowhunter world. I also love Tessa’s love for books and reading. I can completely relate to her. I also loved Will and Jem. I love how different they are, in some ways they are opposites, but I love their tandem and how well they just work together. I enjoyed their banter throughout the whole book. 




“A little girl robbed you?" Tessa said. "Actually, she wasn’t a little girl at all, as it turns out, but a midget in a dress with a penchant for violence, who goes by the name of Six-Fingered Nigel." "Easy mistake to make," Jem said.” 


While I felt The Mortal Instruments was a lot darker than start of this new series, there’s still plenty of sinister things going on behind the scenes in Clockwork Angel. There’s a lot of fight scenes, a lot of things to discover and there’s betrayal in characters you’ll never expect. 



My Rating: 5 out of 5 stars



March 16, 2012

REVIEW: A Temptation of Angels by Michelle Zink

Title: A Temptation of Angels
Author: Michelle Zink
Publisher: Dial Books for Young Readers (Penguin Group)
Publication Date: 20 March 2012
Format: ARC; 448 pages
Summary:When her parents are murdered before her eyes, sixteen-year-old Helen Cartwright finds herself launched into an underground London where a mysterious organization called the Dictata controls the balance of good and evil. Helen learns that she is one of three remaining angelic descendants charged with protecting the world’s past, present, and future. Unbeknownst to her, she has been trained her whole life to accept this responsibility. Now, as she finds herself torn between the angelic brothers protecting her and the devastatingly handsome childhood friend who wants to destroy her, she must prepare to be brave, to be hunted, and above all to be strong, because temptation will be hard to resist, even for an angel.



My Review:
Michelle Zink has completely won me over with her latest book, A Temptation of Angels. She brings in this absorbing story of angelic descendants, known as Keepers, who are meant to protect the mortal world all the while weaving in a story filled with excitement, eminent danger, mystery and suspense that kept me on the tip of my toes with every turn of a page.

I had high expectations for A Temptation of Angels and Michelle Zink not only met them, but she surpassed them beyond belief. Michelle didn’t disappoint at all. In fact, she impressed me with the overall storyline and her incredible way with words. I’m not very fond of historical fiction, but Michelle has managed to convert me into loving it. Her impeccable, detailed descriptions of London were elegant and exquisite. Her overall writing was beautiful, fluid and smooth. It wasn’t difficult to follow nor understand.  Each paragraph, sentence, word and phrase was completely visual and imaginative. I was more than able to see what was described. I felt like I was living in the book rather than just reading it. 



The world that Michelle has built up in A Temptation of Angels is so fascinating and enticing. Each aspect of this world was unique and original from the Keeper’s light jumping, to their weapons, their rules and ways. I couldn’t help but get swept within the streets of London, the features of the Channing home and the gadgets and machinery in Galizur’s office. The very dark parts of this book, with wraiths and demons was another genius addition. It’s no wonder that I was deeply immersed into the book. It was so difficult to pull away and it was even harder to resist this invisible, irresistible force that kept me drawn to the story and the world all around. 



Michelle has done an excellent job of developing her characters and giving them a unique personality and voice, especially Helen. She has become a favorite of mine from the instant she appeared. Helen’s innocence and lack of knowledge about the Keeper world in the beginning was an awakening to her transformation at the end, which was most incredible and admirable. I loved seeing everything through her eyes. She has this way of thinking that I couldn’t help but admire. What I loved most about Helen was her fire spirit. She had this strong fierceness and relentless spunk that made her more real. Even though Helen lost so much, she still held her own. She never gave up. Her intense drive and great sense and ability to turn something and see it differently was amazing. She solves problems through intelligence and skill. She’s crafty, a quick learner and has a will stronger than any I have ever known. Her overall personality is kind-hearted and honorable. She sees the good in everyone while still thinking things through rationally. I couldn’t help but root for Helen’s survival and hope for her ultimate safety and happiness. 



Helen’s connection with Griffin is wonderful. I enjoyed watching their friendship slowly grow into this honest and true romance. Their concern and care for each other left me awestruck and the moments they spent together made my heart skip a beat with longing. I love Griffin’s intelligence, strength and confidence; his bravery and his intense feelings for Helen. I loved how unselfish he was and how he did everything for the people he loved. I enjoyed his relationship and dynamic with his brother, Darius. Griffin is such a sweetheart there is no question my loyalty and love for Griffin go way beyond the mortal and Keeper world alone. It’s not hard to fall in love with Griffin and surely readers will be captivated by him. 



The pacing to A Temptation of Angels was perfect. Each moment had me reeling. I wanted to devour this book at the same time savor it to keep from reaching the end. The  action and excitement in the book was never ending. Not a single dull moment in this book was present whatsoever. The plot and build-up are breath-taking and heart stopping. There is no measurement to how much I love this book. 



Overall, A Temptation of Angels is an unforgettable, complex and more than riveting story. It’s about survival, finding one’s destiny, accepting one’s true self, forgiveness and ultimate redemption. 



Michelle Zink has created a smart, sophisticated and cleverly crafted story through and through. This book is truly addicting, unputdownable, and a MUST read. I cannot wait for whatever Michelle Zink has to offer next. 



My Rating: 5 out of 5 stars!




Connect with Michelle Zink:
Website | Twitter | Facebook

Pre-order A Temptation of Angels:
Amazon | B&N | Book Depository

Giveaways:
My 100 Follower Giveaway (A Temptation of Angels is one of the choices)
Be Tempted to Win a Free iPad Giveaway (Michelle's Epic Giveaway for the book's release)

March 15, 2012

REVIEW: Life is But A Dream by Brian James

Title: Life is But A Dream
Author: Brian James
Publisher: Feiwel & Friends*
Publication Date: 27 March 2012
Format: eARC via Netgalley; 234 pages
GR Summary:

Sabrina, an artist, is diagnosed with schizophrenia, and her parents check her into the Wellness Center. There she meets Alec, who is convinced it's the world that's crazy, not the two of them. They are meant to be together; they are special. But when Alec starts to convince Sabrina that her treatment will wipe out everything that makes her creative, she worries that she'll lose hold of her dreams and herself. Should she listen to her doctor? her decision may have fatal consequences.



My Review:
Life is But A Dream by Brian James is anything but ordinary. He brings in this honest, surreal and captivating story about a girl, Sabrina, who is diagnosed with schizophrenia. Brian James managed to take a simple story of a girl trying to recover and managed to take it and twist into this story of beauty and brilliance.

I had no idea what to expect with Life is But A Dream. I wasn’t expecting to step into a mind of a schizophrenic and be filled with wonderment and have this slightly exhilarating feeling in my stomach. Not only did Brian James, amaze me, he impressed me with his beautiful writing. Every word in this book was more than descriptive and vivid, it was was imaginative. Everything was simple, but exuded this colorful incredibility with each phrase and sentence. I lost myself in those descriptions more than once.

I enjoyed the fact that Life is But A Dream was seen all through Sabrina’s eyes. I’ve never read a book that deals with an illness this severe and I was more than glad to have read it and experienced it such a way that the person who was sick is the narrator. I was able to sympathize with Sabrina and possibly understand her, if only a little. I really felt for her. I wanted to reach out to her because I knew she just needed someone by her side.



I love how magical and colorful and life-like everything was to Sabrina. She truly did see things differently; from the ever-changing sky, to the different colored rocks, to the sounds of the wind and the static that surrounds her world. I thought the world and the heaven she saw was beautiful. The way Sabrina describes her surroundings is like a fantasy and a dream. It felt like what she was seeing was real and just within reach.



I thought Brian James did a great job creating and developing Sabrina’s character and her personality. Sabrina was very intriguing character from the very beginning and was even more pleasing in the end. I was so wrapped up with Sabrina that I sometimes found myself questioning whether she really was crazy or not. She seemed more real than anything else in the book.



When Sabrina meets Alec, everything seemed to be going good for her. She found someone she could connect with and relate to, but it became obvious that Sabrina was spiraling downward instead of getting better. I thought having Alec as Sabrina’s love interest was a nice addition to the story. I enjoyed their talks and the time they spent together and I loved how Alec really did care for Sabrina from the beginning until the very end. Like him, I wish things didn’t go down that way with Sabrina. I get that Alec was trying to help Sabrina in his own way, but I thought the things he told her were a little irrational and I found him to be slightly cynical towards the world in general. Also, I did think their friendship and likeness for each other moved too quickly and this could possibly be the reason for Sabrina’s downfall.

I do have to comment that the pacing to this story is slower than I’m comfortable with. It’s not until fifty percent in where the story picks up the pace a bit. I also had trouble with the transitions between Sabrina’s past and present. Sometimes they blended and were unclear. I do not know if this was intentional due to Sabrina’s illness and her state of mind, but it did leave me disoriented at times. More than once I had to reread previous pages in the book to catch up with Sabrina’s ever changing thoughts. However, the overall writing of this book makes these issues minor in comparison.

All in all, Life is But A Dream was a fascinating and heart-felt story. It’s beautifully written and is seemingly able to transport you into the strange entrancing mind of Sabrina’s heaven.

My Rating: 

4 out of 5 stars



*Thanks to Netgalley and Macmillan for allowing me to read an eARC of this book. In no way do they influence my thoughts in this review. It is solely my own. 




March 14, 2012

Waiting on Wednesday #13

Waiting on Wednesday is a weekly meme hosted by Jill @ Breaking the Spine where you share an upcoming release that you're anticipating on reading.

I'm not so patiently waiting on
Expected Publication Date: May 1, 2012

Goodreads Summary:
What if there were teens whose lives depended on being bad influences? This is life for sons and daughters of fallen angels in Sweet Evil. 

Tenderhearted Southern girl, Anna Whitt, was born with the sixth sense to see and feel emotions of other people. She’s aware of a struggle within herself, an inexplicable pull toward danger, but it isn’t until she turns sixteen and meets the alluring Kaidan Rowe that she discovers her terrifying heritage, and her will-power is put to the test. He’s the boy your daddy warned you about. If only someone had warned Anna. 

A cross-country trip to meet her father forces Anna to face the reality that hope and love are not options for her kind. When she confronts her destiny, will Anna embrace her halo or her horns?


Why I'm waiting?

1. Word of Mouth.
I stumbled upon this book when several bloggers that I follow got an ARC of Sweet Evil. I didn't give it much thought until one by one my favorite bloggers started to read it and love this book. I couldn't help but read their posts and tweets about how amazing this book is. Naturally, I put this on my 'to-read' list in hopes that I could pick this one once it releases. So yes, word of mouth works. 

2. Fallen Angels.
If not word of mouth, it's the summary that really got me wanting this book bad. First of all, it mentions fallen angels. I have no idea what is up with me and my angel fixation, but any angel related book I'm remotely interested in I'm bound to check it out and read it. There's no hope of not reading an amazing angel book whether or not the angel lore is prominent or not. Plus, I'm always interested how authors twist and mix up angel lore.

3. Anna Whitt.
Because she has a pull for danger and I. Love. That. She sounds like a kick-ass protagonist already. Her heritage is a mystery and I'm so ready to dive into this book and find out what she's all about. 

4. Kaidan Rowe.
That name is music to my ears. Something about that name screams sexy. I have no idea why. Also, he seems like the bad boy type and I love those types no matter how many times authors use them. The summary does says he's the boy your daddy warned you about... is that not enough incentive to love Kaidan already? Maybe, maybe not. But you have to admit that he sounds interesting so like me, you'll want to know who Kaidan Rowe is. 

5. HarperTeen.
I adore HarperTeen. Some of my favorite books were published by Harper so it makes sense to get another awesome title from HarperTeen! Sometimes I just go by who the author or publisher is and get the book without knowing anything about it at all. I love doing that because when I do get it and read it, the book blows my mind. 

Pre-order Sweet Evil:

March 13, 2012

Winner: Alex's 18 Birthday Giveaway


Amanda Marie @ Book Love 101

Amanda is the winner of the print copies of Daimon and Half-Blood by Jennifer L. Armentrout for the Happy 18th Birthday Alex Giveaway

Congrats to Amanda! She has already replied to email notification to claim her prize :)

Thank you to everyone who entered! I was very surprised at the amount of entries. 

Hopefully Alex had an awesome birthday thanks of all her fans and of course, the #HalfBloodLegion! 

Teaser Tuesday #11


Teaser Tuesday is weekly meme hosted by MizB from Should Be Reading.

My teaser will come from Michelle Zink's A Temptation of Angels which releases March 20! I'm currently reading this and it's amazing so far. I love Helen and I adore Griffin Channing even more <3

"I'm not good with anything physical..." she began as they turned down a hallway she had never seen. He flashed her a grin as they walked. "I find that hard to believe."pg 145.
"And deprive myself of the opportunity to be near you?" His voice was husky in her ear, his breath tickling the tender skin of her neck.  "That seems foolish on my part, but if you'd like to learn, I'll teach you." pg 181.


Michelle Zink is holding an awesome giveaway for the release of A Temptation of Angels that will blow your mind! Check it out HERE.

I'm also giving away A Temptation of Angels as one of the choice books for my 100 Follower Giveaway!

Pre-order A Temptation of Angels:
B&N | Amazon | Book Depository

March 11, 2012

100 Follower Giveaway!

Over the weekend I reached 100 followers! *jumps up and down*


That's beyond amazing to me to have all of your support in this and I can never ever ever thank all of you enough or even individually! That would take me forever and a day. LOL!

I appreciate each and every one of you who continue to visit my blog, comment on reviews and memes and just make me smile on a daily basis with all your love and to all the new blog followers who are so wonderful that they are interested in following my blog to begin with! Thank You! You.. YOU and of course YOU! You guys are my driving force to keep going even when I'm struggling with school and family life. My blog followers/visitors/loyalists/commenters are and always will be the light in the darkness of my life.

So to show how much I truly love you guys, I'm hosting another giveaway even if I'm super broke! LOL! ;)


ONE WINNER will get to choose ONE of the following books:
For every 50 followers I get, I'll add a new winner!


OR a Pre-order of 


*If you choose A Temptation of Angels by Michelle Zink, I'll email Michelle an order confirmation and you'll get a signed, personalized bookplate if they are still available!
* If you chose Endlessly by Kiersten White or Onyx by Jennifer L. Armentrout, keep in mind that I will be pre-ordering it so it shall ship the day of release. 

THE RULES:
- To Enter- Fill in the Rafflecopter below
- One entry per person
- Must be 13 years or older
- Open Internationally as long as The Book Depository ships to you! Check HERE
- Winner is contacted via email and will have 48 hours to respond or I will chose another winner!
- Ends March 29, 2012; Midnight EST
- Read my Giveaway Policy before entering.



a Rafflecopter giveaway