text:
WHOA – there are some amazing kindle deals going on right now in YA! Just be sure to buy these books soon because I'm sure the discounted prices won't last for too long.
13 Young Adult Kindle Deals Under $5
The Frugal Fantasy Reader is a Read.Breathe.Relax. original feature that lists the latest fantasy and young adult Kindle book deals. Who says you can't read good books on a budget?
Find other great Kindle ebook deals on the Features page.
Kindle Deals
1. White Cat (Curse Workers) by Holly Black – I love this series!
Price: $2.99
Description: "The first in a trilogy, this gritty, fast-paced fantasy is rife with the unexpected. Cassel comes from a shady, magical family of con artists and grifters. He doesn't fit in at home or at school, so he's used to feeling like an outsider. He's also used to feeling guilty—he killed his best friend, Lila, years ago.
But when Cassel begins to have strange dreams about a white cat, and people around him are losing their memories, he starts to wonder what really happened to Lila. In his search for answers, he discovers a wicked plot for power that seems certain to succeed. But Cassel has other ideas—and a plan to con the conmen."
2. The Goose Girl (Books of Bayern) by Shannon Hale
Price: $2.99
Description: "She can whisper to horses and communicate with birds, but the crown princess Ani has a difficult time finding her place in the royal family and measuring up to her imperial mother. When she is shipped off to a neighboring kingdom as a bride, her scheming entourage mounts a bloody mutiny to replace her with a jealous lady-in-waiting, Selia, and to allow an inner circle of guards more power in the new land. Barely escaping with her life, Ani disguises herself as a goose girl and wanders on the royal estate. Does she have the pluck to reclaim her rightful place? Get ready for a fine adventure tale full of danger, suspense, surprising twists, and a satisfying conclusion. The engaging plot can certainly carry the tale, but Hale's likable, introspective heroine makes this also a book about courage and justice in the face of overwhelming odds. The richly rendered, medieval folkloric setting adds to the charm. "
3. Evermore: The Immortals by Alyson Noel
Price: $2.99
Description: "Since a horrible accident claimed the lives of her family, sixteen-year-old Ever can see auras, hear people's thoughts, and know a person's life story by touch. Going out of her way to shield herself from human contact to suppress her abilities has branded her as a freak at her new high school—but everything changes when she meets Damen Auguste . . .
Ever sees Damen and feels an instant recognition. He is gorgeous, exotic and wealthy, and he holds many secrets. Damen is able to make things appear and disappear, he always seems to know what she's thinking—and he's the only one who can silence the noise and the random energy in her head. She doesn't know who he really is—or what he is. Damen equal parts light and darkness, and he belongs to an enchanted new world where no one ever dies."
4. Marked (House of Night, Book 1) by P.C. Cast
Price: $2.99
Description: "The House of Night series is set in a world very much like our own, except in 16-year-old Zoey Redbird's world, vampyres have always existed. In this first book in the series, Zoey enters the House of Night, a school where, after having undergone the Change, she will train to become an adult vampire — that is, if she makes it through the Change. Not all of those who are chosen do. It's tough to begin a new life, away from her parents and friends, and on top of that, Zoey finds she is no average fledgling. She has been Marked as special by the vampyre Goddess, Nyx. But she is not the only fledgling at the House of Night with special powers. When she discovers that the leader of the Dark Daughters, the school's most elite club, is misusing her Goddess-given gifts, Zoey must look deep within herself for the courage to embrace her destiny–with a little help from her new vampyre friends. "
5. Ship Breaker by Paolo Bacigalupi
Price: $2.99
Description: "In America's Gulf Coast region, where grounded oil tankers are being broken down for parts, Nailer, a teenage boy, works the light crew, scavenging for copper wiring just to make quota–and hopefully live to see another day. But when, by luck or chance, he discovers an exquisite clipper ship beached during a recent hurricane, Nailer faces the most important decision of his life: Strip the ship for all it's worth or rescue its lone survivor, a beautiful and wealthy girl who could lead him to a better life…
In this powerful novel, award-winning author Paolo Bacigalupi delivers a thrilling, fast-paced adventure set in a vivid and raw, uncertain future."
6. Ashes, Ashes by Jo Treggiari
Price: $2.99
Description: "A thrilling tale of adventure, romance, and one girl's unyielding courage through the darkest of nightmares.
Epidemics, floods, droughts–for sixteen-year-old Lucy, the end of the world came and went, taking 99% of the population with it. As the weather continues to rage out of control, and Sweepers clean the streets of plague victims, Lucy survives alone in the wilds of Central Park. But when she's rescued from a pack of hunting dogs by a mysterious boy named Aidan, she reluctantly realizes she can't continue on her own. She joins his band of survivors, yet, a new danger awaits her: the Sweepers are looking for her. There's something special about Lucy, and they will stop at nothing to have her."
7. Born at Midnight (Shadow Falls) by C.C. Hunter
Price: $2.99
Description: "Don't miss this spectacular new series that will steal your heart and haunt your dreams, Welcome to Shadow Falls camp, nestled deep in the woods of a town called Fallen…
One night Kylie Galen finds herself at the wrong party, with the wrong people, and it changes her life forever. Her mother ships her off to Shadow Falls—a camp for troubled teens, and within hours of arriving, it becomes painfully clear that her fellow campers aren't just "troubled." Here at Shadow Falls, vampires, werewolves, shapshifters, witches and fairies train side by side—learning to harness their powers, control their magic and live in the normal world.
Kylie's never felt normal, but surely she doesn't belong here with a bunch of paranormal freaks either. Or does she? They insist Kylie is one of them, and that she was brought here for a reason. As if life wasn't complicated enough, enter Derek and Lucas. Derek's a half-fae who's determined to be her boyfriend, and Lucas is a smokin' hot werewolf with whom Kylie shares a secret past. Both Derek and Lucas couldn't be more different, but they both have a powerful hold on her heart.
Even though Kylie feels deeply uncertain about everything, one thing is becoming painfully clear—Shadow Falls is exactly where she belongs…"
8.The Iron Knight (Harlequin Teen) by Julie Kagawa
Description: "Ash, former prince of the Winter Court, gave up everything. His title, his home, even his vow of loyalty. All for a girl… and all for nothing.
Unless he can earn a soul.
To cold, emotionless faery prince Ash, love was a weakness for mortals and fools. His own love had died a horrible death, killing any gentler feelings the Winter prince might have had. Or so he thought.
Then Meghan Chase—a half human, half fey slip of a girl— smashed through his barricades, binding him to her irrevocably with his oath to be her knight. And when all of Faery nearly fell to the Iron fey, she severed their bond to save his life. Meghan is now the Iron Queen, ruler of a realm where no Winter or Summer fey can survive.
With the (unwelcome) company of his archrival, Summer Court prankster Puck, and the infuriating cait sith Grimalkin, Ash begins a journey he is bound to see through to its end— a quest to find a way to honor his solemn vow to stand by Meghan's side.
To survive in the Iron realm, Ash must have a soul and a mortal body. But the tests he must face to earn these things are impossible. At least, no one has ever passed to tell the tale.
And then Ash learns something that changes everything. A truth that turns reality upside down, challenges his darkest beliefs and shows him that, sometimes, it takes more than courage to make the ultimate sacrifice."
9. Life As We Knew It (The Last Survivors) by Susan Beth Pfeffer
Price: $3.28
Description: "Miranda's disbelief turns to fear in a split second when a meteor knocks the moon closer to the earth. How should her family prepare for the future when worldwide tsunamis wipe out the coasts, earthquakes rock the continents, and volcanic ash blocks out the sun? As summer turns to Arctic winter, Miranda, her two brothers, and their mother retreat to the unexpected safe haven of their sunroom, where they subsist on stockpiled food and limited water in the warmth of a wood-burning stove.
Told in journal entries, this is the heart-pounding story of Miranda's struggle to hold on to the most important resource of all–hope–in an increasingly desperate and unfamiliar world."
10. The Giver (Newbery Medal Book) by Lois Lowry
Price: $4.70
Description: "Jonas's world is perfect. Everything is under control. There is no war or fear or pain. There are no choices. Every person is assigned a role in the Community. When Jonas turns twelve, he is singled out to receive special training from The Giver. The Giver alone holds the memories of the true pain and pleasure of life. Now, it is time for Jonas to receive the truth. There is no turning back."
11. Rippler (The Ripple Trilogy) by Cidney Swanson
Price: $3.99
Description: "Samantha Ruiz has a freak gene that makes her turn invisible, or ripple. She can't control it, and it's getting worse. Afraid of becoming a lab-rat, Sam keeps her ability secret, until fellow runner Will Baker sees her vanish into thin air. Will promises secrecy and help, and Sam begins to fall in love.
Together, the two discover there are worse things than being a scientific curiosity. Someone's been killing people who possess Sam's gene. A mysterious man from France sends letters that offer hope for safety, but also reveal a sinister connection with Nazi experiments.
The more time Sam spends with Will, the less she can imagine life without him. When Sam uncovers secrets from her past, she must choose between keeping Will in her life or keeping Will safe."
12. A Chance for Charity (The Immortal Ones – A Paranormal Romance) by S.L. Bau
Price: FREE
Description: "If you live LONG enough… love (and danger) will find you.
A new family has just arrived in the isolated mountain town of Telluride, Colorado. Welcome the Johnstons – Jason (a doctor), Rachel (a designer), and their niece Emily (a current High School Senior).
Emily has lived the life of a quiet loner in the past, trying to go unnoticed. But with Telluride being such a small and welcoming town, she finds a group of friends at school almost immediately. When Emily meets Link (another new transplant in town) her world turns upside down. She doesn't understand why she feels a magnetic pull toward him, or why she unknowingly lets her guard down around him. Link is just as confused by his own need to be with her.
Emily knows she is playing with fire. She should be doing whatever she can to keep herself isolated, to keep Link from getting too close. Danger has a way of finding Emily's family – that is what keeps them on the move. They arrive in a new town every few years – it is safer that way.
Because… Emily isn't really Emily… her real name is Charity – and Charity has an even bigger secret. Charity and her family are not like other people, they have "skills" that mere mortals cannot begin to comprehend.
Before long, Charity is struggling with the reality that her two lives are coming closer to each other with each passing day. Soon Link will find himself wrapped in a supernatural world that he never knew existed – and discover that mortals are not the only beings that walk this earth."
13. The Iron King (Harlequin Teen) by Julie Kagawa
Price: $4.99
Description: "Meghan Chase has a secret destiny; one she could never have imagined.
Something has always felt slightly off in Meghan's life, ever since her father disappeared before her eyes when she was six. She has never quite fit in at school or at home.
When a dark stranger begins watching her from afar, and her prankster best friend becomes strangely protective of her, Meghan senses that everything she's known is about to change.
But she could never have guessed the truth – that she is the daughter of a mythical faery king and is a pawn in a deadly war. Now Meghan will learn just how far she'll go to save someone she cares about, to stop a mysterious evil no faery creature dare face; and to find love with a young prince who might rather see her dead than let her touch his icy heart."
Get these young adult kindle deals while they're hot!!


text:
NT3™ SE NiTi
Nickle Titanium Arch Wire
- Fully active at room temperature
- Exhibits excellent springback
- Gentle to patients, but powerful enough to align even the most challenging cases
- Moderate forces are an excellent choice for all treatment phases except finishing
Therma-Ti® Lite
- Lightest force heat activated wire, transitions to its active state at 35˚ C
- Soft at room temperature for easy and comfortable wire insertion
- All cross sections are best suited for low force applications
- Rectangular dimensions to deliver optimal light forces during initial treatment phase
TriTanium™ Wire
Different teeth benefit from different tooth moving forces.
TriTanium has three distinct thermally activated force regions which place the correct force in the anterior, bicuspid, and posterior arch regions to efficiently level, align, and torque. With any other arch wire it could take multiple arch wire changes to achieve similar results.
- Superior Patient Comfort
- Fewer Archwire Changes
- Longer Treatment Intervals
Superelastic Options
Dimpled (Permanent Centerline)
The distinct upper and lower gable bends anchor the arch wire between the central incisors, preventing the wire from shifting and springing free from the buccal tubes. This unique feature minimizes emergencies and prevents asymmetry problems. It also eliminates the need for time-consuming cinch-back bends.
Gold Coated
Coated with 24 karat gold, these Force I arches blend tastefully with our "Forever Gold" brackets, with little compromise in function. Designed specifically to help you meet the needs of patients who prefer aesthetic appliances.
Reverse Curve of Spee
Our reverse curve arches are recommended for bite opening/closing and to correct curve of Spee irregularities. The rectangular arches are specifically designed for "low maintenance" space closure of extraction spaces. They act three-dimensionally to counteract unwanted tooth movement caused by closing chain.
Reverse Curve of Spee - Straight Leg
This modified reverse curve arch has all of the features of our standard "RCS" arch, except that the molar "toe in" has been eliminated. The distal legs are straight in order to minimize excess distal-lingual rotation of molars. Additionally, the anterior segment has been widened slightly to minimize cuspid-to-cuspid constriction. It's an excellent choice when molar tip-back bends are required to provide additional anchorage.
Straight Length
These 7 inch (17.5 cm) straight lengths of superelastic Force I wire can be used to create sectional wires and special auxiliaries. Its high resiliency requires considerable over-bending to achieve the desired form.
Superelastic Force I nickel titanium available in 15 foot (14.6 m) spools.
Other Products
Titanium Memory Wire Terminology
Loading force: Force required to deflect or load arch wire into the slot.
Unloading force: Working or rebounding force that moves teeth as the wire is returning to its original form.
Transition force: The difference between loading and unloading forces.
Martensitic state: Cold or softest state of titanium wire. "Martensitic" or thermal arches are in this condition at room temperature.
Austenitic state: Stiffest, most resilient state of titanium wire. "Austenitic" arches are in this state at room temperature.
Transformation: The change from Martensitic to Austenitic state, generally induced by temperature increases.
Superelastic: Highly resistant to permanent deformation and able to maintain relatively constant forces during rebound.
Shape Memory: The ability of a wire to remember its original shape, even after being deformed.
Sign up to receive new product and other information from American Orthodontics!

subset: commoncrawl


text:
Archiv der Kategorie: YA Fantasy
[Gast-Rezension] Götterherz – Band 1 (Nadine)
B.E. Pfeifer.
Seit Beginn ihres Familienurlaubs in Griechenland durchlebt die zwanzigjährige Penelope seltsame Träume. Jedes Mal findet sie sich an einem bedrohlichen Ort voller Monster wieder. Und jedes Mal erscheint ein mysteriöser Mann und verteidigt sie gegen diese Kreaturen.
Als sie diesen Fremden auch in wachem Zustand trifft, blitzen Erinnerungen an ein früheres Leben in ihr auf. An ein Versprechen von Unsterblichkeit, an eine Liebe, die Jahrtausende überdauert hat, und an eine uralte Rivalität zwischen zwei Göttern. Und einem davon gehört ihr Herz schon seit so langer Zeit. Allerdings muss sie nun um ihn kämpfen – um ihn und um ihr eigenes Leben, das von Göttervater Zeus persönlich bedroht wird.
(Source: amazon.de)
Ich habe das Buch in der Vorweihnachtszeit gelesen und konnte mich nach einigen Seiten in die Geschichte fallen lassen. Der Schreibstil der Autorin ist flüssig und es ist leicht Pen durch den Familienurlaub zu folgen. Während ich ihren Bruder als sehr angenehm empfand, war die Schwester einfach nur furchtbar daneben und ich fand es schrecklich wie sie sich aufgeführt hat. Die Beziehung der Eltern hat mir sehr leid getan und ich hätte mir hier noch etwas mehr Ausbau im Miteinander gewünscht.
Auch wenn ich erst nicht so recht wusste, wie ich mit Pen und der ganzen Situation umgehen sollte, kann ich sagen, dass mich die Geschichte dann doch ziemlich schnell gefesselt hat und ich mehr erfahren wollte. Dies ist der Autorin auch in der Umsetzung gut gelungen, denn man bekommt als Leser immer wieder Details und Informationen, ohne dabei überladen zu werden oder zu lang warten zu müssen. Und ehe ich mich versah, war ich mit dem Buch auch schon durch, was nicht zuletzt an Pen und ihrer männlichen Gesellschaft gelegen hat.
Ich habe in diesem Buch eine bunt gemischte Portion an Spannung, Emotionen, sowie Spaß und Erheiterung gefunden.
Ich finde das Cover einfach traumhaft schön. Es versprüht Mysterium, Romantik, Einsamkeit und ein Hauch Ungewissheit.
Eine tolle Geschichte, die einen mal wieder in die Welt der griechischen Mytholohgie eintauchen lässt. Auch wenn nicht alle Details für mich abgerundet waren, konnte mich die Geschichte dennoch fesseln und ich wollte wissen wie es weiter geht. Ich hoffe, es gibt noch einen weiteren Teil, da ich mich noch nicht vollständig verabschieden möchte.
4,5 of 5 points – (Sooo Awesome)
Liebste Grüße
Bettina Pfeifer :
Bettina Pfeiffer wurde 1984 in Graz geboren und lebt heute mit ihrem Mann und ihren beiden Kindern in Baden bei Wien.
Seit ihrer Kindheit liebt sie es, sich Geschichten auszudenken. Besonders als Ausgleich zu ihrem Zahlen-orientiertem Hauptjob taucht sie gerne in magische Welten ab und begann schließlich, diese aufzuschreiben. So entstand recht schnell die Idee für die »Weltportale« und andere magische Geschichten im Genre Fantasy/Romantasy.
Inspiration findet sie dafür immer wieder durch ihre Kinder, mit denen sie gerne auf abenteuerliche Entdeckungsreisen geht..
(Source: amazon.de)
[Gast-Rezension] 19 – Das erste Buch der magischen Angst (Nadine)
'19 – Das Erste Buch Der Magischen Angst'
Rose Snow..
. .
Fürchte dich nicht vor der Angst! Entdecke die neue Romantasy Trilogie von Bestseller-Autorin Rose Snow und verbringe eine magische Zeit in New York!
New York ist für Widney ein Neuanfang. Weg von der Familie, weg von unschönen Erinnerungen, weg von dem Schmerz. Dass sie in der neuen Stadt ausgerechnet in einer WG mit skurrilen Regeln landet, hätte Widney jedoch nicht gedacht. Aber nicht nur die Regeln sind seltsam, auch die Mitbewohner verhalten sich eigenartig. Nur ein einziger scheint ihr gegenüber aufrichtig zu sein. Doch obwohl Widney sich von ihm angezogen fühlt, kann sie seine Offenheit nicht erwidern. Denn was hat es mit den schwarzen Raben auf sich, die sie ständig begleiten? Und wie soll sie ihm erklären, dass seit ihrem 19. Geburtstag eine düstere magische Gabe in ihr erwacht ist? " (Source:amazon.de)
Und wieder mal ein Buch aus der Feder von Rose Snow. Dass ich ein kleiner Fan vom Autorenduo bin, ist vielleicht schon einigen aufgefallen. Die Mädels schaffen es eigentlich immer mich mit ihren fantastischen Geschichten mitzunehmen und mir eine wohlige Atmosphäre in der neuen Umgebung, mit neuen, aber nicht lange fremden Figuren zu vermitteln.
Dieses Mal geht die Reise nach New York und wir begleiten Widney zu ihrem neuen aufregenden Studentenleben. Doch leider reist sie nicht mit leichtem Gepäck und der Leser merkt schnell, dass es hier nicht nur um eine lebhafte Zeit und Feiern gehen soll, sondern Widney einiges in ihrem alten Leben zurückgelassen hat und sich nun auf mehrere Arten neu orientieren und zurechtfinden muss.
Die Idee die Angst in einem Jugend-YoungAdult-Buch mit fantastischen Elementen zu thematisieren fand ich sehr spannend und war höchst interessiert, wie sich das gestalten sollte.
Anfangs dachte ich beim Lesen, dass diese Geschichte vielleicht gar keinen Fantasy-Teil benötigt, weil die Figuren und deren Geschichten auch einiges an Material – auch für Angstsituationen, hergeben und ich auf jeden Fall auch so an deren Leben interessiert war.
Die WG-Mitglieder (als Nebenfiguren) zeichnen sich durch auf die ein oder andere Weise charmante Eigenheiten aus – besonders hat mir hier das Experiment mit der Pflanze gefallen, was einem nicht nur ab und an ein Schmunzeln entlocken konnte, sondern mir ganz klar auch den Einstieg und das "Zuhause-Sein" in der lustig zusammengestellten Wohngemeinschaft erleichtert hat. Aber auch hier ist nicht alles Friede-Freude, sondern jeder Charakter hat seine eigene Geschichte, die hie und da zu Tage kommt und damit Tiefe bei den Figuren erzeugt, ohne sich dabei in zu vielen Details zu verlieren.
Was mir weiterhin gut gefallen hat, dass es dieses Mal beim Love-Interest, meines Erachtens, weniger um Äußerlichkeiten ging, sondern Charakterzüge und Handlungen vorrangig waren, die hier das Band entstehen ließen – während es natürlich auch das ein oder andere Mal eine sexy-pose oder anreizende Beschreibung gab , aber ohne aufdringlich zu sein. Genau das richtige Maß um den Leser anzuregen.
Was es genau mit dem Fantasy-Anteil aufsich hat und welche Mythologie dahinter steckt, erfahrt ihr am besten wie immer selbst. Ich fand die Idee spannend und interessant, bei mythologischen Aspekten hat man mich eigentlich fast immer. =)
Leider muss ich aber auch dazu sagen, dass dadurch ein wenig die Geschichte "anders" wurde, da sich der Schwerpunkt auf den fantastischen Anteil verlagert hat und mir manch eine Umsetzung nicht so ganz gefallen hat, wie z.B. die Tatsache, dass Widney ihr Studium äußerst schnell durch diese Veränderungen vernachlässigt. Abgesehen von der Columbia haben wir auch gar nicht viel vom Schauplatz "New York" mitbekommen, da sich vieles in der WG abgespielt hat. Das ist ansich nicht schlimm, aber wenn man die Chance hat eine Großstadt wie diese als Handlungsplatz auszusuchen, dann ist es schade, dass hier das Potenzial nicht mehr ausgeschöpft wurde und der Leser den Ort nicht wirklich "besucht hat". Hier wäre, auch in Verbindung mit dem Fantasieelement, mehr möglich gewesen.
Ganz stilecht bleibt sich Rose Snow bei der Cover- und Titelgestaltung treu. Vordergründig wie immer eine Zahl, thematisch passend sehen wir die Skyline von New York als Darstellung des Handlungsplatzes. Für den fantastischen Anteil finden wir hier das Raben"maskottchen" und eine Feder. Das Cover passt auf jeden Fall zur Geschichte, ist für mich aber nicht der absolute Blickfang.
Ein guter erster Teil, der die Figuren sympathisch und lebhaft an den Leser bringt, sodass man den Tag leicht mit ihnen verbringen kann. Der fantastische Teil hat auf jeden Fall die Weichen für weiteres Interesse gelegt und ich bin gespannt wie es im zweiten Teil voran geht.
4 of 5 points – (Great, Great, Great)
Liebste Grüße
#1: Rose Snow – 19 – Das erste Buch der magischen Angst
#2: Rose Snow – 19 – Das zweite Buch der magischen Angst
#3: Rose Snow – 19 – Das dritte Buch der magischen Angst
Rose Snow :
Hä? Anna? Pfeffer? Rose? Snow?
Wir hören auf all diese Namen.
Denn hinter den Pseudonymen Rose Snow und Anna Pfeffer stecken wir, Carmen und Ulli. Zusammen sind wir 73 Jahre alt, haben 2 Männer, 6 Kinder und einen Hund. Wir können ewig reden, lieben Pizza und Schokolade und lachen unheimlich gerne, vor allem über uns selbst.
Seit dem Sommer 2014 schreiben wir gefühlvolle Fantasy – außerdem ist im September 2016 unser erster Jugendroman bei cbj erschienen. Danach folgten noch weitere.
Kühn nachgerechnet sind wir schon seit unfassbaren 22 Jahren befreundet. Wir kennen uns aus unserer Schulzeit und schreiben trotz der Distanz Wien – Hamburg miteinander. Bedeutet: Unzählige Stunden via Skype, schallendes Gelächter und das Teilen tiefster Geheimnisse, auch wenn sie noch so peinlich sind.
(Source: rosesnow.de)
[Review] Teardrop
. . . . . . . . . .
Lauren Kate
Teardrop # 1
Seventeen-year-old Eureka won't let anyone close enough to feel her pain. After her mother was killed in a freak accident, the things she used to love hold no meaning. She wants to escape, but one thing holds her back: Ander, the boy who is everywhere she goes, whose turquoise eyes are like the ocean.
And then Eureka uncovers an ancient tale of romance and heartbreak, about a girl who cried an entire continent into the sea. Suddenly her mother's death and Ander's appearance seem connected, and her life takes on dark undercurrents that don't make sense. Can everything you love be washed away? (Source: Goodreads.com)
My thoughts about the book:
I really wanted to love the book, at least so far that I may be able to recommend it – I mean, have a look at this wonderful cover and also the synopsis sounded very promising – particularly, because it sounded like a fresh and new story. And also the beginning was really good, has carried me away immediately and I found the writing style nice, even if it was sometimes a little bit too poetic and then at the next moment it was too uncouth again.
At first I could still sympathize with the central character Eureka, understand her thoughts and actions. We accompanied her through the first chapters as she handles the death of her mother and the funereal processing afterwards, with her class-mates, whom now look differently at her or when Eureka visits her psychiatrist. All along her best and cheeky friend Cat is on her side or also her best and the joke-making friend Brooks.
Soon I liked Brooks very much and also up to the end he's my explained favorite of the story. But unfortunately the author has another love hero in her mind for Eureka and therefore, the mysterious Ander has appeared over and over again. With Ander, only the readers know who he really is, what he wants or why he appears at Eurekas side over and over again. And therefore Eureka asks herself all the time whether he wants to harm her or if he wants to help and besides, she constantly feels drawn to him in a romantic way. Furthermore it also happened, that she kissed Brooks – her best friend – but, actually she thought of Ander at the same time. But no problem in the love-triangle, because Brooks will be turned to the bad person of the story, so then Eureka can snug with Ander without feeling guilty. *jipie*-> YES, this was sarcastic, if you ask yourselves.
Everything was so ridiculously, also the contained love story and how it has developed, or as well the story of the book, which went in a direction I liked less and less. At first old legends were dug out, myths were indicated of the city Atlantis – which I really liked, but then the power of Eureka were for me too much fantasy and also a little absurd. No, maybe that is the wrong saying. It wasn't due to the fact that there was too much fantasy, but rather how it was described and how Eureka has handled the whole exposures around her person. It was really gross, what she has found out, but she has just swallowed it and has simply used her strength without freaking out. Thereby for me it was, combined with the plot, simply too much and an overkill. So at the end I only could incredulous shake my head. Hence I was disappointed by the initial good book and I will also not continue this series and I'll also stop my experiment with Lauren Kate. Unfortunately, the book wasn't meant for me.
A wonderful cover, which shows also perfectly the plot of the book and it's simply charming. *great*
All in all:
Unfortunately, the magnificent cover, which has animated me to read the story, is already the only wonderful thing about the book. The plot, as well as the characters, weren't understandable for me and everything was too detached for my taste and this, although I usually have no problems with a good fantasy story – but here, everything was too much and too unbelievable.
2,5 of 5 points – (it was okay)
Quotes: (© Kate)
"Love was a dance floor where everyone you loved left a mark behind."
"Wisdom holds a candle to experience, but you've got to take the candle and walk alone.".
# 1: Lauren Kate – Teardrop »»
# 2: Lauren Kate – Untitled
# 3: Lauren Kate – Untitled
About the author – Lauren Kate:
Lauren Kate grew up in Dallas, went to school in Atlanta, and started writing in New York.
She is the author of Fallen and The Betrayal of Natalie Hargrove. She lives in Laurel Canyon with her husband and hopes to work in a restaurant kitchen, get a dog, and learn how to surf.
She is currently at work on the sequel to Fallen.
(Source: goodreads.com)
Visit her Website »»
A huge Thanks for the reviewer's copty to:
[Review] The Iron Traitor
. . . . . . . . . .
'The Iron Traitor' by Julie Kagawa
The Call of the Forgotten # 2
After his unexpected journey into the lands of the fey, Ethan Chase just wants to get back to normal. Well, as "normal" as you can be when you see faeries every day of your life. Suddenly the former loner with the bad reputation has someone to try for-his girlfriend, Kenzie. Never mind that he's forbidden to see her again.
But when your name is Ethan Chase and your sister is one of the most powerful faeries in the Nevernever, "normal" simply isn't to be. For Ethan's nephew, Keirran, is missing, and may be on the verge of doing something unthinkable in the name of saving his own love. Something that will fracture the human and faery worlds forever, and give rise to the dangerous fey known as the Forgotten. As Ethan's and Keirran's fates entwine and Keirran slips further into darkness, Ethan's next choice may decide the fate of them all. (Source: Goodreads.com)
My thoughts about the book:
It was a long Odyssey and I thought it would never end – it felt like I've needed an eternity to finish the book and this usually never happen with books from Kagawa. But with part here the important spark has been absent for me, and I've to try hard to read on and find my motivation.
The story begins after the events of the first book and almost immediately we come back again to the Nevernever, but before they still have to find a way to hold Annywl longer in this world, before she disappears forever. For this we hurry at first to New Orleans to find Keirran, who has disappeared. Then everybody hurries together back to a guru to make them an amulet, only to hurry further to the summer court and so on and on – you see what I want to say with that. It was an endless loop and during the whole plot they only have hurried from a place to the next to find weird creatures, which they had to fight or kill. Hence, this was the next negative point, which I must criticize, because for me there were too much and too long fight scenes in the book, so that I after some time they didn't entertain me any longer.
But therefore I really love the other descriptions, the surroundings and the whole world-building, which Kagawa has created here and like always I really like her characters. First of all I'm a fan of Kenzie with her headstrong, self-confident character – for me she's a female figure, from whom you only want to read more about and liked throughout the book. But also Ethan is in my heart, although sometimes he could be a little softer, but he's the tough guy in the books – so what should we do? 😉 Kerrain on the other hand hasn't convinced me till now and his changing in the second book, didn't make it better.
In any case for me it was a highlight that we briefly have bumped into Ash! Even if this reunion was only for a short duration – nevertheless, I have been glad to meet the dark prince or king again.
Even if the general plot course was a little tougher to read in the second book, and long-winded – but the end could again persuade me and leave me behind in amazement. Although this end-scene was already indicated from the beginning, I didn't think that it happened like this. Hence, we really got a nasty cliffhanger, which let us wait magnetized for the third and also last part of this series.
Englisches Cover:
I like the cover very much and you can also recognize Keirran on it perfectly, with his hair and eyes. Even if he doesn't count to my favorites – the cover looks amazing!
All in all:
I'm so sorry to say that, but for me the book was the worst book, which I've read from Kagawa up till now. Now I know, that sounds dreadful – but if you consider how much Kagawa's books usually always inspire me, it is clear that a 3-point-book is simply the worst one of them, what is in general still a good-average-book.
3 of 5 points – (I liked it)
Quotes: (© Kagawa)
Ethan: 'I won't lie. Annwyl was beautiful. Bbig green eyes, shining brown hair, her body soft and graceful beneath her dress. I was a guy, after all, and I wasn't blind. But seeing her didn't make my stomach twist with nerves or the corners of my mouth want to turn up in a smile like they did with Kenzie.'
"Humans." Grimalkin's furry head poked out of the grass, tail twiching in annoyance. "Are you coming? Or are you going to stand there and talk until the guardians return and crush your bones to powder? And as the expense of repeating myself – do not touch any of the apples as we are making our way through the orchard. Do not even look at them. Please attempt to have some semblance of self-control, as small as ist might be." ^^.
# 1: Julie Kagawa – The Lost Prince »»
# 2: Julie Kagawa – The Iron Traitor »»
# 3: Julie Kagawa – Untitled
About the author – Julie Kagawa:
She was born in Sacramento, California. But nothing exciting really happened to her there. So, at the age of nine she and her family moved to Hawaii, which she soon discovered was inhabited by large carnivorous insects, colonies of house geckos, and frequent hurricanes. She spent much of her time in the ocean, when she wasn't getting chased out of it by reef sharks, jellyfish, and the odd eel. (Source: goodreads.com)
Visit her Website »»
Vielen Dank für die Bereitstellung des Rezensionsexemplares an:
[Snapshot] Crossing
. .Snapshots sind kurz-Rezis zu gelesenen Büchern, die einen Einblick geben sollen, was mir an dem Buch gefallen hat und was nicht, oder ob es empfehlenswert ist.
'Crossing' by Stacey Wallace Benffiel
He stole her lipstick…and her heart.
Twenty-year-old Dani Walker can't believe her luck when she's paired up with the gorgeous Liam Garrett as her Acting I scene partner – or when he ends up in her bed. Being a Plain Jane with a mouth on her hasn't exactly served Dani well in the guy department. In fact, she's had nothing but one night stands. Still, she lets go of her insecurities and falls for Liam, despite feeling like he's holding something back.
When Dani finally discovers Liam's secret, she must learn the true meaning of accepting the ones we love for who they are, or risk losing the best thing that's ever happened to her.
My thoughts: (Deutsche Rezension weiter unten)
It was nice and it was okay, but unfortunately also not more than that. Although I really looked forward to this book, it didn't persuade me and it just wasn't completely for me.
First the writing style of Benffiel has irritated me very much and I found it very chopped off, as well as messy, too bewilderingly and everything in the plot also happened much too fast – not only with the writing, but also by the development of their friendship and finally their relationship.
The characters were just like that. Nice but also not something special, so that they could moved me or touched me deeply in any chapter. For me everything was just flat and short, without depth.
Also this secret problem of Liam wasn't really something for me, although I'm actually a tolerant person, but I don't know whether I could live with this situation, if he would be my boyfriend. Please, don't misunderstand me, everybody can live and be like they want, but to me as my partner I couldn't fancy him *sorry*. Hence, it was also difficult for me to understand and to build up the connection. But Dani already had experience or had a similar past and so had less probably problems with it. At least it was turned and pointed out like that in the book.
A lot was very evident and not surprising at all, what I found a great pity. It was a 0815-plot in a not everyday love relationship. The idioms were all stereotyped and mostly I've waited only waited for the exact outcome, like I've foreseen it. It's too bad that in my opinion she has broached this subject too superficial and inserted no new considerations.
Nice book which was written briefly and hence, it is to be read very quickly, but nevertheless no real recommendation from my side.
Meine Meinung:
Es war nett, es war okay, aber leider auch nicht mehr. Dabei hatte ich mich wirklich darauf gefreut, aber es sollte wohl einfach nicht ganz für mich passen.
Zuerst hat mich der Schreibstil von Benffiel sehr irritiert und ich fand ihn abgehackt, wie auch durcheinander, zu verwirrend und es ging auch alles viel zu schnell. Nicht nur beim Schreiben, sondern auch bei der Entwicklung ihrer Freundschaft und dann ihrer Beziehung.
Die Figuren waren genauso. Nett aber auch nicht außergewöhnlich, sodass sie mich bewegt oder tiefgehend berührt hätten. Allesamt nur flach angeschnitten, kurz und bündig.
Auch dieses Geheimnis/ Problem von Liam war nicht wirklich etwas für mich, obwohl ich eigentlich ein toleranter Mensch bin, aber ich weiß nicht, ob ich mit dieser Situation hätte leben können, wenn ich seine Freundin wäre. Versteht mich nicht falsch, jeder kann leben und sein wie er will, aber als meinen Partner könnte ich ihn mir nicht vorstellen. Daher war es für mich auch schwer nachzuvollziehen und die Verbindung aufzubauen. Aber Dani hatte schon Erfahrung bzw. eine ähnliche Vergangenheit und hatte deswegen wahrscheinlich weniger Probleme damit. Zumindest wird es im Buch zu gedreht und darauf hingedeutet.
Vieles war sehr offensichtlich und nicht im Geringsten überraschend, was ich sehr schade fand. Eine 0815-Handlung in einer nicht alltäglichen Liebesbeziehung. Die Wendungen waren allesamt klischeehaft und man hat fast nur darauf gewartet, dass genau das passiert. Sehr schade, dass sie dieses Thema meiner Meinung nach so oberflächlich angekratzt hat und keine neuen Überlegungen einbaute.
Nettes Buch das kurz geschrieben wurde und daher rasch zu lesen ist, aber trotzdem keine richtige Leseempfehlung von mir.
Thanks for the reviewer's copy to:
[Review] Onyx
by Jennifer L. Armentrout
Lux # 2
Being connected to Daemon Black sucks…
Thanks to his alien mojo, Daemon's determined to prove what he feels for me is more than a product of our bizarro connection. So I've sworn him off, even though he's running more hot than cold these days. But we've got bigger problems.
Something worse than the Arum has come to town…
The Department of Defense are here. If they ever find out what Daemon can do and that we're linked, I'm a goner. So is he. And there's this new boy in school who's got a secret of his own. He knows what's happened to me and he can help, but to do so, I have to lie to Daemon and stay away from him. Like that's possible. Against all common sense, I'm falling for Daemon. Hard. But then everything changes…
I've seen someone who shouldn't be alive. And I have to tell Daemon, even though I know he's never going to stop searching until he gets the truth. What happened to his brother? Who betrayed him? And what does the DOD want from them—from me? No one is who they seem. And not everyone will survive the lies… (Source: Goodreads.com)
My thoughts about the book:
At the moment I'm just dumbfounded and unsure what I should think about the book. I've really liked the first part in this sci-fi series – it was incredible – but this book had his up-and-downs.
I had my biggest problem in Onyx with Katy/ Kat/ Kitten because for me she often was very nerve-killing, undecided and mean to Daemon. Particularly at the beginning and in the middle, I could have strangled her when she has pushed him away over and over again, although he has changed himself by 180°, and has done everything for Katy. And what was she doing? – She was hanging around with another boy, only because he is supposedly normal -> very nice, Katy and so grown-up. So, yes, I think, Katy and I didn't have become friends in this book, there it also didn't helped, that I found her book- fanaticism and blogger-passion just great. I only hope, that she becomes more grown-up in the next book, more determined and won't make again such stupid decisions, which concerns everybody and hurt or injure others.
And now to Daemon!! Oh, he's my new Bookboyfriend and he's soo adorable. *swoon* In the first part he was still quite an asshole (where we know the reason for it now), which he's also sometimes in this book, or also narcissistic – but a witty, very charming one, who you can't be angry with … especially not at all with his charismatic appearance, cheeky statements and with this look and body. *sigh* He's meant for dreams, especially now when he has become really nice, sweet and caring. ♥
I've also liked the plot very much after the first half. At first it was too stretched, but then when the thing with Blake happened and the thing with him, Vaughn or Daemon's brother, together with Katy, got more interesting, it even became a page-turner, for which I haven't counted on any more.
Of course I wasn't happy with everything that has happened in the book, but the most part, particularly the end, has worked out really great for me and also has led to the fact, that I rated the book with four points. The look-out to the next book and the unknowing and what will wait for us there, makes it for me very tingly and I can hardly wait to read on soon, because at the end there was also a little cliffhanger. I'm very curious what will happen next with Daemon and Katy or with Daemon's brother or all around him and which role this devil underground will play in the further course.
Very nice cover and I like it even better than the first one – probably because of the color – with violet you can't do something wrong! 😉
All in all:
A little stretched beginning, which also made me crazy because of Katy's behavior, but it could persuade me at the end and won me over with action and much thrilling tension. Now I want more and I wait with longing for book three, which I probably will also read very soon!
4 of 5 points – (Great, great, great)
Jesus." Blake rubbed his throat. "You have anger management problems. Its like a disease."
Daemon: "There's a cure and it's called kicking your ass.
Daemon pressed his forehead against mine. "Oh, I still want to strangle you. But I'm insane. You're crazy. Maybe that's why. We just make crazy together."
Daemon: "If there is anything, there is us.
You and me. No one else."
0,5: Jennifer L. Armentrout – Shadows (Short Story)
#1: Jennifer L. Armentrout – Obsidian »»
#2: Jennifer L. Armentrout – Onyx »»
#3: Jennifer L. Armentrout – Opal
#4: Jennifer L. Armentrout – Origin
#5: Jennifer L. Armentrout – Untitled
About the author – Jennifer L. Armentrout:
USA Today Bestselling Author Jennifer L. Armentrout lives in West Virginia. When she's not hard at work writing, she spends her time, reading, working out, watching zombie movies, and pretending to write.
She is the author of the Covenant Series (Spencer Hill Press), the Lux Series (Entangled Teen), Don't Look Back (Disney/Hyperion) and a yet untitled novel (Disney/Hyperion)
(Source: Goodreads.com)
Visit her Website »»
[Review] The Eternity Cure
'The Eternity Cure'
Julie Kagawa
Blood of Eden # 2
In Allison Sekemoto's world, there is one one rule left: Blood Calls to blood.
Cast out of Eden and separated from the boy she dared to love, Allie will follow the call of blood to save her creator, Kanin, from the psychotic vampire, Sarren. But when the trail leads to Allie's birthplace in New Covington, what she finds there will the change the world forever – and possibly end human and vampire existence.
There's a new plague on the rise, a strain of the Red Lung virus that wiped out most of humanity generations ago – deadly to humans and vampires alike. The only hope for a cure lies in the secrets Kanin carries. If Allie can get to him in time….. (Source: Goodreads.com)
My thoughts about the book:
I'm just speechless and that doesn't happen very often 😉
But after the end I don't know whether I should be glad about the hopefully soon released next part or should cry because we don't know what is going to happen next…
However, better I start right with the beginning:
Some months after Allie's and Zeke's ways have separated at Eden, she is still following the psycho-vamp Sarren, who has Kanin in his catches and torments and massacres him over and over again – Allie can feel this, because of her blood connection with Kanin. But instead of him, Allie hits in further results other old friends. At first by some of them, I immediately would have liked to turn around again and by others I've been enormously glad!! ♥
But about that I'm going to write more of it, further down.
Now to the writing style of Kagawa, which I find simply brilliant, admirable and desirable. Though she sometimes stretches her descriptions a little, but she makes the surroundings-descriptions so special and fantastic that it don't disturbs me and so I'm just even more enthusiastic about it – whether it is about a fantastic fairy kingdom or like here about a cruel, somber area in tunnels or in wastelands, in which hope stands shortly before the end. *great*
Without any problems Kagawa also could create characters which got me, carried me away and with which, I simply fell in love with and I constantly worried about them. Even with Jackal I had this feeling, although I only wanted to strangle him at the beginning – but he could persuade me with his cheeky, unabashed behavior and change my opinion about him. (To tell the truth, he reminds me a little of Grimalkin from the Iron Fey series ^^)
But also Kanin was one of my favorites – and now that where I'm okay with the idea, that there will be no romantic incident with him – I'm glad about his fatherly behavior and for me he is a little like a grumpy bear, on which you also can lean on or is able to give you a good advice.
Now to the two main characters: Allie was just great once again and totally great. I like her even more than back then Meghan in the Iron Fey series, because she sorts things out and doesn't hesitate long, doesn't whine and in addition, she still has feelings and tries to hang on to her humanity. Alas, she is awesome and we could use more such female main characters in books. 😉
And ZEKE – what I should say more about Ezekiel than that I'm absolutely in love with him! ♥ Although, in the first book I already liked him, but there he was sometimes too blue-eyed for me and was too nice for this sad, dreary world, which he lived it. BUT now he has grown up and has become more masculine and a fighter. That sounds stupid, but it is like that! 😀 Moreover I buy everything from him and he is in the right mood, he is still sensitive, sweet and caring, like in the first part. He virtually had a tuning, which made him a lot better and yeah – now, I'm in love! xD
So – and now to the end – which has totally got me down and made me cry like a little baby! Therefore, now I would like to address only those, who have already read the book – because I would like to know your opinion on this subject and what you think, how it goes on now in the third part … because on the internet I can't find any info about when part three is going to be published or how it will be titled, never mind a synopsis! *whine*
So from here -> SPOILER!!!
I saw it coming when Allie has said goodbye in the evening to Zeke, especiallay because she saw Stick lurking around in the shadows … this was just soo evident! And then when Zeke was really gone and we hear the tortures and the screams – oh god, I've cried like a baby and also yet, when I think back of it, it's killing me. It was really very hard and sad and I felt so sorry for Allie. :'-(
Now to my questions: What do you think after this prologue – do you think he has also become a vampire? Which I liked, to be honest – or do you think, Sarren just let Zeke live as a human? But this would be too easy for me! Moreover, then he could be together with Allie – be together for a long time, because they both would be immortal. Of course he didn't wanted this, and hence, I think, the third part will be focused on the fact that Allie has to find her humanity again and Zeke has to master his existence as a vampire and to try not to perish – and yeah, they also have to find a cure against rabidsm and to kill Sarren – this psycho-asshole. Okay, do you think my opinion is right or is my supposition totally wrong? What do you wish for in the last part?
Once again it fits perfectly to Allie, but I liked the cover from the first part a track better.
All in all:
An emotional rollercoaster, which though gets starting a little slowly, but then takes up such a rapidly drive and doesn't stop up till to the end, until you are breathless when you read the last page. *wow*
4,5 of 5 points (soo aswesome!)
Quotes: (Between Allie and Zeke)
Allie: "Promise me you'll keep fighting, for as long as it takes. We're not dead yet."
Zeke gave me the smallest of grins. "Technically, you are."
Zeke: "You haven't changed. You're still beautiful and dangerous and incredible. and I'll keep telling you that for as long as is takes you to believe it. But right now, all I want to do is kiss you, except I'm terrified that if I try you might throw me off this balcony."
Zeke drew back, looking a little dazed. Gazing down at me, he gave a wry smile, licking his lips. "That… didn't have anything to do with him over there, did it?" he asked, sounding suspiciously amused, and a little breathless. I bit my lip.
"Does that bother you?"
"If it involves kissing you? Please, use me to prove a point anytime."
His hand framed my cheek, brushing my skin. "No one who fights so hard to do the right thing is evil."
# 1: Julie Kagawa – The Immortal Rules »»
# 2: Julie Kagawa – The Eternity Cure »»
# 3: Julie Kagawa – Untitled
About the author – Julie Kagawa:
Julie Kagawa was born in Sacramento, California. To pay the rent, Julie worked in different bookstores over the years, but discovered the managers frowned upon her reading the books she was supposed to be shelving. Then she worked as a professional dogtrainer for several years, until her first book sold and she stopped training to write full-time.
Julie now lives in Louisville, Kentucky. She lives with her husband, two obnoxious cats, one Australian Shepherd who is too smart for his own good, and the latest addition, a hyper-active Papillon puppy.
(Source: juliekagawa.com)
Visit her Website »»
[Snapshot] Notes from Ghost Town (engl)
'Notes from Ghost Town'
by Kate Ellison
They say first love never dies…
From critically acclaimed author Kate Ellison comes a heartbreaking mystery of mental illness, unspoken love, and murder. When sixteen-year-old artist Olivia Tithe is visited by the ghost of her first love, Lucas Stern, it's only through scattered images and notes left behind that she can unravel the mystery of his death. There's a catch: Olivia has gone colorblind, and there's a good chance she's losing her mind completely—just like her mother did. How else to explain seeing (and falling in love all over again with) someone who isn't really there? With the murder trial looming just nine days away, Olivia must follow her heart to the truth, no matter how painful. It's the only way she can save herself.
(Source: Goodreads.com)
My opinion:
I don't know where I should start. In this book there were shed many tears, not only by the protagonist, but also by me while reading it. It begins immediately there – as it is described in the synopsis – with the death of Stern, who I immediately took to my heart at the first encounter, and with every other appearance of him, I fall more and more in love with him, but always with the knowledge that he's damn dead and just a ghost…
Of course the book wasn't only about the processing of the grief or about the releasing of Stern, to let him go – the BFF of Liv and almost boyfriend. No, because Liv's schizophrenic mother is accused of the murder and the negotiations stand in a queue within the next seven days.
Seven days, in which together with Stern, Liv tries to find the true murderer of Stern also the reason for it. Hence, it is really very exciting and criminological and what I've liked was that I also could guess who the murderer was or not. And I must admit that up to three quarters of the book I had no clue. Hence, this guessing game and dissolving of the mysterious occurrences was made really well and has tied me up throughout the whole book.
And adding to this whole criminological background, there are of course the whole big feelings and emotions, which Liv has to go through. Not only the heartbreaking 'letting go' of Stern, but also the strength to stand to her mother, to fight for her, even if others put themselves in Liv's way and make it harder for her and, also at the same time, to find the courage to let herself fall into a new love.
I've liked Liv really very much and she was a tough character and she was very likeable to me right from the beginning, during the prologue and before destiny let her life fall apart. Though she was almost already too strong for her sixteen years, but I prefer this much more than these irritating, naive girlies. Moreover Liv was also emotionally cold, especially at the beginning and reserved to the others, except towards her stepsisters, but after what has happened to her, it's just logical and understandable.
And now to Stern … Man, how can an author create such a great, charming, amusing, gifted and hot guy, just to let him die in the beginning – to let him be a ghost? Still, when I think back to the book, tears fill my eyes always when I think of him, of Liv's longing for him and also of mine. That was really painful!
But I also found Austin quite okay, even if for a long time it wasn't clear, which role/ game he played. Nevertheless, he had a mistake … namely -> he just wasn't Stern. 😦
Though I haven't liked the writing manner of the author by hundred percent and here and there I also had difficulties with her English, but nevertheless she could conjure a great atmosphere here and therefore I'm sure, that I'll read a book of her again sometime.
Even if some other readers think that the end was too corny in a way or too rose-colored, for me it was great and I was totally happy with it and have no problem with how it has ended. But I'm a happy-end-fan, as you know, and therefore it was exactly my taste and I hope, if some of you decide to the read this book too, that you all will feel like that as well. Therefore I like to recommend it and I wish you all a lot of fun with the book! But before you start reading, procure a big pack of handkerchiefs for it! 🙂
Liv: 'When her fingers glide across the keys and what results is the kind of music that makes you stop where you are and notice every beautiful thing around you. His fingers can do this, too.'
Liv: '… Before we knew that we were not permanent, and that a good, easy life is not something the universe is contractually obligated to grand you.'
Liv: '… And I ace, as much as I have since the day Stern and I kissed, for a person beside me who understands exactly what I need without me ever having to say it. Even if the world stays gray forever, I just don't think it would be so bad if I knew I could have Stern, permanent, solid, for real.'
A huge Thanks for the reviewer's copy to:


text:
Indonesian Art Nouveau Abalone Shell Earrings
Item# NRD-1242
0 star rating
Your Cost$ 38.00
Inspired by the whimsical aesthetic of art nouveau, these romantic earrings feature a floral design and abalone shell. They are made of sterling silver in the tradition of Indonesian silver smithing. Earrings measure .5 inches across and 1.125 inches long (from bottom of earring hook to bottom of earring).
- Floral art nouveau earrings
- Sterling silver with abalone shell
- Measure .5 x 1.125 inches
- Made in Bali, Indonesia
Handcrafted: Artistically created by hand where beauty and imperfections go together wonderfully. Please accept and appreciate minor imperfections and variations which are true characteristic of this craft.


text:
Please click on a link below:
Common Law Offences
Common law offences still applicable within the South African legal system
Eye Witness News
Steeped in a rich history of credible, up to the minute news, Eyewitness News is Primedia Broadcasting's premium news brand. With over 3 million consumers nationwide, Eyewitness News is focused on keeping South Africa informed with accurate news, sport, traffic and business reports - as it happens, when it happens.
Missing Children South Africa
Missing Children SA assists the South African Police Service in finding people and creating national awareness.The first 24 hours after a person goes missing, is the most crucial. Our organisation exists to be reactive and to create awareness when a case is reported. Approximately one thousand four hundred and sixty (1460) children go missing each year � it is a real and present danger and as an organisation we feel it is necessary to ensure that the citizens of South Africa are aware of this threat to the safety of our children.
Crime Line
Crime is a problem - but you can help solve it.
There is no doubt crime is affecting all of us. It's easy to feel helpless, thinking there's nothing you can do to stop it. But, you can! Crime Line will help make our country safer.
This is a Primedia (Pty) Ltd group initiative. It is independent and anonymous and aimed at getting criminals off the streets.
We want you to blow the whistle on crime. We will pass on the information to the authorities who have undertaken to act. All we want you to do is to pass on information of any criminal activity you know of.
Happy Planet Index
The new HPI results show the extent to which 151 countries across the globe produce long, happy and sustainable lives for the people that live in them. The overall index scores rank countries based on their efficiency, how many long and happy lives each produces per unit of environmental output.
Missing Children Statistics 2011/2012
Based on cases reported to Missing Children SA
World Wide Drugs and Crime Charts
Chart Bin
International Statistics on Crime and Justice, as compiled by the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC)
The backbone of the 2011 Global Study on Homicide, UNODC Homicide Statistics is a collection of statistical data on intentional homicide (unlawful death purposefully inflicted on a person by another person). The dataset covers 207 countries and territories and provides data on homicide levels, trends and contextual characteristics drawn from a variety of national and international sources relating to homicide.
Statistics South Africa Victims of Crime Survey
The victims of crime survey is the first national survey of its kind in South Africa. A countrywide,
household-based survey, it examines crime from the point of view of the victim. While surveys of
crime victims cannot replace police statistics, they can provide a rich source of information which
will assist in the planning of crime prevention.
South Africa 2012 OSAC Crime and Safety Report
On a rating scale of low, medium, high, and critical, Pretoria, Johannesburg, Durban, and Cape Town are rated "critical" for crime.
Human Trafficking
Human trafficking is the acquisition of people by improper means such as force, fraud or deception, with the aim of exploiting them.
The present report deals with the reported national serious crime figures and ratios for the 2011/2012 year
financial year (that is the period 1 April 2010 - 31 March 2011). These are compared to the figures
recorded during the preceding financial years since 2003/2004. The provincial crime figures are also
analysed in more detail and some comments made on aspects influencing the crime situation. More
detailed crime figures and maps are provided on the SAPS website at www.saps.gov.za.
ENOUGH! is a movement for the people of South Africa, who have had enough of police corruption, police harassment and police abuse.


text:
The Most "Wearable" Fashions from Spring and the Zennis that Complement Them
We recently had a look at Glamour's top "wearable fashions" for spring 2014 and were totally bowled over by some of the ultra-cute trends for this season. What's particularly exiting are some of the unique ways that designers used color: Unexpected stripes, contrasting collars and even bomber jackets in decidedly girly shades. This made it a snap to find great frames to go with these looks.
Want to stay on trend this season? Check out how Zennis can complete your look with these ideas:
Cool pastels are hot this spring, so get yourself some new frames to complete your look!
There are three ways you can coordinate your glasses to beautiful spring pastels:
- Keep things light: Choose matching or complimentary light colored frames that will give you an all-over spring look.
- Go deep: If you want to draw attention to your pretty face, choose frames in a deep shade of your outfit's color family. For maximum impact, wear jewelry in the same shade.
- Modern Metallics: For a super-modern look, choose metallic frames in a complimentary pastel color.
Contrast Collar Button Down Shirts
This is a totally fun trend that requires a little forethought when it comes to accessorizing.
Here are two things to think about when selecting Zenni's to go with your contrast collar blouse:
- Grab a pair of frames that match the collar.
Or. . .
- Find a pair of multi-color frames that pick up both the collar color as well as that of the rest of the shirt.
What you don't want to do is add more colors to the mix (i.e. don't wear green frames with a blue shirt that has a yellow collar), that's distracting. Stay consistent.
Bomber Jackets in Fun Colors and Spring Sweaters
The Glamour article showed some incredible bomber jackets in decidedly feminine hues along with fun spring sweaters that can take you comfortably from cooler mornings into warm afternoons. While I could recommend doing the matching/contrasting color thing with your frames, I'm instead going to recommend that you pick up a pair classic aviators to go with your jacket and/or sweater. Too much color and wackiness is distracting and if you are going to invest in multi-colored jackets and sweaters, you want all the attention on these pieces, not your eyeglass frames.
Athletic Stripe Trousers
Now here's a concept: Trousers with sporty side stripes, a look borrowed from athletic wear. Choose a sporty frame in a solid color that matches the stripe.


text:
I am in LOVE with the new trans-genre site! AJ is the best!
JAC Stringer
Performer, Writer
JAC Stringer, also known as Midwest GenderQueer, is a trans-genderqueer femme, (dis)abled-kid radical activist and performance artist. A native of Cincinnati, Ohio, JAC strives to create visibility, community, and resources for trans*and queer communities. JAC has lectured and performed across the USA and Canada with his work focusing trans* and queer education, social justice, femme identities, (dis)ability, and trans*/queer artistry. He uses radical activism, hot pants, poofy skirts, and gender theory to create an intriguing space centered on bodies, ability, androgyny, and beyond.
JAC is the founding director of The Midwest Trans* and Queer Wellness Initiative, as well as having founded and lead several activist projects including Cincinnati Trans* Community Group, The GenderQueer Coalition,GenderBloc, the GLSEN Greater Cincinnati Youth Group, and The Queer Canon Zine. JAC is a leading activist in the movement against gender identity pathologization and is very invested in health care reform and comprehensive sex education. He is a strong advocate for trans* and queer inclusive sexual assault awareness and prevention and is a trained survivor advocate. JAC is an Advocates for Youth Alum, an Equality Ohio regional Lobby Team Leader, and is an organizer on several local and national organizing boards including TransOhio, The Philadelphia Transgender Health Conference, The Greater Cincinnati Youth Summit, and The Femme Conference.
As a performer, JAC has done genderfucking dance, music, drag, and spoken word everywhere from full scale theaters to classrooms to dive bar broom closets. Primarily self-taught, he combines a speckled arts education of living room dance lessons, classical training, and old movies with identity focused messaging to create an empowerment focused artistic repertoire. In addition to being a solo performer, JAC is the co-manager of the nationally recognized drag cabaret troupe, The Black Mondays, and founder of Gender Queeries Genderqueer Performance Tour. JAC is lovingly devoted to the drag performance community, seeing it as an important and unique venue for trans* and queer self expression. He serves on the board of The International Drag King Community Extravaganza and is a national gender performance showcase producer of shows such as the University of Cincinnati GenderFuck Show, Fabulously Fluid!, Philadelphia Trans Health Conference's Blender!, and Mind the Gap. JAC's community-focused shows, rooted in radical activist ideologies, have gained international contribution in cities around the country.
JAC is a life-long dancer, poet, musician, and rabble-rouser whose work's purpose is to generate unity, action, and empowerment and achieve rights and recognition for trans* and queer communities through education, art, and other various forms of revolution.


text:
Many big data projects don't have a tangible ROI that can be determined upfront.
Big data investments continue to rise but are showing signs of contracting, according to a recent survey by Gartner.
The survey revealed that 48 per cent of companies have invested in big data in 2016, up 3 per cent from 2015. However, those who plan to invest in big data within the next two years fell from 31 to 25 per cent in 2016.
The online survey was conducted in June 2016 among Gartner Research Circle members. In total, 199 members participated and shared their investment plans.
"Investment in big data is up, but the survey is showing signs of slowing growth with fewer companies having a future intent to invest," says Nick Heudecker, research director at Gartner.
"The big issue is not so much big data itself, but rather how it is used. While organisations have understood that big data is not just about a specific technology, they need to avoid thinking about big data as a separate effort."
Gartner defines big data as a collection of different data management technologies and practices that support multiple analytics use cases. Organisations are moving from vague notions of data and analytics to specific business problems that data can address.
"Its success depends on a holistic strategy around business outcomes, skilled personnel, data and infrastructure," says Heudecker.
Getting big data projects to production Is a challenge
While nearly three quarters of respondents says that their organisation has invested or is planning to invest in big data, many remain stuck at the pilot stage. Only 15 per cent of businesses reported deploying their big data project to production, effectively unchanged from last year (14 per cent).
"One explanation for this is that big data projects appear to be receiving less spending priority than competing IT initiatives," says Heudecker.
Only 11 per cent of respondents from organisations that have already invested in big data reported that their big data investments were as important, or more important, than other IT initiatives, while 46 per cent stated that they were less important.
"This could be due to the fact that many big data projects don't have a tangible return on investment (ROI) that can be determined upfront," adds Heudecker.
"Another reason could be that the big data initiative is a part of a larger funded initiative. This will become more common as the term 'big data' fades away, and dealing with larger datasets and multiple data types continues to be the norm."
Another factor to consider is the lack of effective business leadership or involvement in data initiatives. Too often, pilots and experiments are built with ad-hoc technologies and infrastructure that are not created with production-level reliability in mind.
"When it comes to big data, many organisations are still finding themselves at the crafting stage," says Jim Hare, research director at Gartner. "Industrialisation — and the performance and stability guarantees that come with it — have yet to penetrate big data thinking."
Send news tips and comments to email@example.com
Follow Divina Paredes on Twitter: @divinap
Follow CIO New Zealand on Twitter:@cio_nz
Sign up for CIO newsletters for regular updates on CIO news, views and events.
Join the CIO New Zealand group on LinkedIn. The group is open to CIOs, IT Directors, COOs, CTOs and senior IT managers.


text:
CHICAGO – Playwright Hannah Ii-Epstein is a Hawaiian native who is bringing her unique point of view regarding that U.S."State of Mind" to the Chicago stage. The theater group Nothing Without a Company presents her latest, "Pakalolo Sweet." through October 5th, 2019, at the Berger Mansion in the Edgewater neighborhood. Click here for more details, including ticket information.
Logan Nikolic
Interview: Leah Martin-Brown, Lead Singer of 'Evol Walks'Submitted by PatrickMcD on April 18, 2019 - 5:32am
CHICAGO – With a healthy dose of attitude, a dynamite lead singer and a predilection for time-honored rock 'n' roll, "Evol Walks" is a band that has rapidly emerged as a heavyweight contender. Now based in Los Angeles, Evol Walks has produced an EP, earned plaudits from artists and fans around the world, and played across three continents. The band's hard edge takes its inspiration from the giants of heavy music, from roots in AC/DC and Black Sabbath, as well as Led Zeppelin, Joan Jett, Stone Sour and Monster Magnet, plus gives it a modern tweak.


text:
The construction of the Sea Towers was not easy at all. The Sea Towers is located very near the sea so the wet ground was a big issue. Sea Towers comprises two buildings. The lower one is 91 meters high (24 floors) , while the higher ( 116 meters) has 32 floors . The whole building , including the antenna, reaches 141.6 meters.
The main part of the interiors of the Sea Towers comprises apartments. Each apartment has a parking lot in the underground garages . Some of the rooms are available for tourists. The complex is used for business purposes, too. In addition, there is a lookout platform - and the lookout platform in the Sea Towers offers breathtaking views of the city of Gdynia .
Anything missing? Feel free to add your review of Sea Towers. Thank you for any comments.


text:
Commercial Projects
Mount Vernon Millworks works with architects and business owners to design one-of-a-kind interiors. These high-quality, reclaimed materials will add a unique historical aesthetic to any commercial project.
Dynamit is a data, design and technology company headquartered in downtown Columbus.
The Seasoned Farmhouse
We are honored that Tricia Wheeler, professional chef and founder of Edible Columbus, selected Mount Vernon Millworks to build the custom cabinetry for her Seasoned Farmhouse cooking school in Clintonville. Tricia designed these cabinets herself, featuring diamond motifs and chicken wire in lieu of glass in the divided light cupboard doors. The cabinets are finished in a country white with hand-rubbed glaze. We made hand-planed ceiling beams with matching finish to complement the cabinets.


text:
It feels like forever since I posted one of these, and I'm so glad to slowly but surly be getting back into the swing of updating the blog. We've got some super exciting things going on in the studio right now, so stay tuned over the next couple of weeks as we roll them out
Today though, we're talking about DINOSAURS! It's no big secret that I love dinosaurs, and in preparation for the Jurassic World movie, I started work on a new game featuring Penny Loves Dinosaurs. It's a matching game with interchangeable cards cartoons about several different dinosaur types, and little plastic dinosaur pegs. The prototype went well at the Saint Louis Science Center but there were some tweaks that I wanted to make to it before taking it to shows with us. First off was getting the illustrations for the cards colored.
Our first dinosaur is the Dilophosaurus. Known for his neck frill, many people also think this guy spits poison on it's prey. The books I've been reading don't seem to think so though. What we know about dinosaurs is based on the small amount of evidence preserved in fossils, and comparing that to our studies of modern animals so what scientists "know" is always changing.
The Velociraptor is another super cool dinosaur made famous in the movies. Again, fossil evidence has changed our view of them in the last twenty years as paleontologists have discovered that they appear to have feathers! My version was maybe a little timid with the feather addition.


text:
"I always use Amazing Hair for my shoots and session styling. The quality is incredible and always creates the perfect natural finished look."
"The quality of Amazing Hair's products is awesome, their range is massive and delivers exactly what they promise every time."
"We used Amazing Hair wigs in the way you might couture a dress, each wig was bobbed and given a multi-textural finish. Having good quality wigs that contain a full head of hair is really important for the look and manipulation of the styles to suit each look."
"I love Amazing Hair's tape extensions which have good lasting quality and the solvent for removing them is brilliant."
"Amazing Hair enables me to freely create what I want out of a hairstyle. Wether it be working with a client or creating a look for a collection."
Amazing Hair Australia is an Australian owned company committed to supplying the highest quality hair extensions on the market. Our experience has been gained working throughout Europe since the first introduction of hair extensions, styling celebrities and models at some of the most regarded salons and high profile fashion events.
Made by hairdressers for hairdressers, Amazing Hair is the brand of choice for Australia's top celebrities, hair stylists and leading fashion brands. Amazing Hair is regularly seen on fashion runways and proudly graces numerous magazine front covers.
Advanced product design and hair technology means Amazing Hair products produce superior results both in salon and at home. With our primary focus being research and development, Amazing Hair is at the forefront of hair trends and new product advances.
Our extensive range of temporary and permanent hair extensions, pieces, wefts and wigs is created using the highest quality 100% REMY human hair that is always silky smooth and tangle free. Complemented by our heat resistant synthetic range, Amazing Hair offers our clients the most diverse and fashion forward hair solutions available on the market.
Perfect for adding length, colour, volume and movement for all hair types. There are 19 colour shades available in the range, including pop colours, pastels and balayage.
Amazing Hair offer a comprehensive range of custom designed wet line products, enriched with the healing oils of certified organic Australian Indigenous extracts. These unique products are are design to dramatically revive damaged hair and nourish the scalp. Hair is left looking and feeling lustrous, strong and healthy.
Never before has a hair extension company offered such a superior product that dramatically improves health health, vibrancy and extensions life span.
The all natural products remove synthetic build up and environmental residue while infusing the hair with plant based nutritions like Kakadu Plum, Watermelon Extract, Black Current Extract, Banksia Extract, Agapantha Extract and Tamarind Extract.
The key ingredient in the entire range is wild harvested Kakadu Plum (Gurumal) - the worlds richest natural source of Vitamin C. For thousands of years, the indigenous people of Northern Australia have used the Kakadu Plum as a medicinal, nutritious and tasty food source. Today the vitamin rich properties of the Kakadu Wild Plum are desirable ingredient in superior health and beauty products.
As a proudly Australian based company, Amazing Hair have chosen to work with certified organic Australian Indigenous extracts, with the view of using business as a vehicle to assist local indigenous communities to become sustainable.


text:
... and I was wishing I could go clothes shopping... BUT instead I hit the ever so fabulous Stockholm Street Style, and found these two cool jackets! Totally not practical for me, but, then again, fashion is not supposed to practical, is it?
How do you feel about all the fur out there?? A friend of mine showed up in the most glamorous little fur jacket the other day. Oh so soft and totally retro.... she picked it up in a consignment store!
Have fun this weekend, and don't let all the Christmas shopping get to you!
Images via SSS


text:
We are into day two of our road trip north – commencing the day in Cervantes and finishing in Kalbarri. Over 400km of driving, and the book count stands at two completed and a third one commenced. That Goodreads goal doesn't know what's hitting it.
The day started with a simple breakfast before hitting the road to Greenough Wildlife Park. After a pit stop for fuel and coffee, we were enveloped into the heat of the day. We fed camels and kangaroos, and were teased by talking cockatoos. Refuge was taken under a big stone enclosure while we had the opportunity to hold a baby joey who was being reared before release into the wild after he'd lost his mother. The owners of the sanctuary have been caring for rescued animals for over 20 years and had an exceptionally beautiful passion for the work they do and the animals they care for.
As we were leaving the sanctuary we were also able to hold one of the pet reptiles – while I don't remember the exact breed, I do remember it was a dragon of some kind, which is pretty darn cool.
Another 45 minute drive got us into Geraldton for a quick pit stop to pick up groceries and forgotten items before arriving at Bluffs Point to drink in the ocean view while eating lunch.
We 'left Australia' to enter the micro nation of Hutt River Province. The land was founded in 1970 by the self-titled Prince Leonard, whose investigations into the ownership of land and title were triggered by the government / farmer wheat battles in the 60s, and culminated in him successfully petitioning to claim the land as his sovereign nation and secede from Australia. The province is simple, made up of a non-denominational chapel, plenty of miscellaneous merchandise and vast collections, and a point to stamp your entry and exit visas. Howrver, as they are proud to tell you, it is bigger than Hong Kong.I even met the Prince himself.
I finished The Glass Castle, my new all-time favourite book, on our next jaunt up to Kalbarri, where we were stopping for the night, and commenced American Gods. The Kalbarri cliff-faces were stunning in the afternoon sun, and I had some time to stuff around with DSLR settings I had no idea how to use, before we detoured to the bottle-o and on to our next backpacker accommodation.
After settling into our next set of bunk beds (I highly recommend making a beeline for the beds near the window when you're in the northern parts of WA), we sunscreened and made our way to the Murchison River for a swim and the sunset – which I captured poorly.
Our new German friends joined us and we chatted about cameras and books, languages and life, while drinking beer and feeling the wind die down around us.
I never would have imagined calling a bus tour with hours of driving relaxing, but it has been magical. Neither of us are driving and both of us are able to nap and read and follow the leader rather than quibble over who is next to drive and where to stop and the next activity.
Amongst all the bus tripping and minimal reception, I even progressed some wedding planning, corresponding with some great venues about our ceremony while we passed through Geraldton. I am itching to get my hands on my wedding planner so I can really keep track of everything in one place – until then, its electronic for me.


text:
First Nations doc maker Alanis Obomsawin mourns loss of Trick or Treaty? star
Documentary featuring the late Dr. Stan Louttit makes world premiere at TIFF 2014
First Nations documentary maker Alanis Obomsawin says she's equally passionate about all of her films, which number in the dozens, but her latest has her particularly emotional.
That's because Trick or Treaty? — which will make its world premiere at the Toronto International Film Festival on Friday — features the late Dr. Stan Louttit, Grand Chief of the Mushkegowuk Tribal Council, who died in Moose Factory, Ont., in June.
The 82-year-old says Louttit was the reason she made the film,which examines modern-day discussions surrounding a controversial 1905 land rights agreement known as the James Bay Treaty. or Treaty No. 9, and seeing him in it now is "just heartbreaking."
- Alanis Obomsawin's Trick or Treaty? to screen at TIFF 2014
- Mushkegowuk Grand Chief Stan Louttit dies
"He had cancer, but I certainly didn't think it would happen so fast. It's a loss to all his people and to all of us."
Obomsawin said she embarked on Trick or Treaty? after Louttit told her about plans for a re-enactment of the 1905 signing of Treaty No. 9 in northern Ontario.
The veteran documentarian, who has been making films on indigenous history for four decades, travelled to Moose Factory to shoot the event. That footage is in Tricky or Treaty? along with scenes from various events surrounding the issue, including the Idle No More movement and Attawapiskat Chief Theresa Spence's hunger strike.
Interviewees in the National Film Board of Canada doc include Louttit, who was a key figure in Treaty 9 education initiatives, as well as various First Nations leaders and experts.
Louttit says in the doc that when the treaty was signed in 1905, First Nations people thought it was an agreement of peace,prosperity and friendship.
This [film] is so badly needed, I think, because people are very ignorant in terms of knowing what a treaty is -- especially Canadians in general.- Alanis Obomsawin
And Nipissing University professor John Long, author of TreatyNo. 9: Making the Agreement to Share the Land in Far Northern Ontario in 1905, notes the treaty was not just a written agreement — it was also an oral one.
"This [film] is so badly needed, I think, because people are very ignorant in terms of knowing what a treaty is -- especially Canadians in general," said Obomsawin.
"If you say 'treaty,' 'Oh, it's an old thing, it's not important.' Well, they're going to find out differently because all the treaties that were made have had terrible consequences to our people and to the country, and people should know that.
"These things should be taught in school."
Obomsawin was at the fest just last year with Hi-Ho Mistahey, about a campaign to provide quality education for First Nations communities. The year before she released The People of the Kattawapiskak River, about the conditions inside the Attawapiskat First Nation.
In all, she's produced more than 30 documentaries on aboriginal rights issues for the NFB — a prolific stream of work that earned her a humanitarian award for "exceptional contributions to community and public service" at the Canadian Screen Awards in March.
She said she's always working on several films at a time (right now she has two other docs on the go), noting they "all marry well together."
And she feels aboriginal filmmaking has gained a lot of traction in recent years.
"I've seen a lot of changes in the last 40 years because for the longest time Hollywood was making films and we became invisible, and Hollywood had its own tribe and it was very different and the people were misinformed," said Obomsawin.
"So now, especially in the last 15 years, 10 years, it's amazing. There's a lot of young people making films, making video, and we have APTN, our own channel. It's just unbelievable.
"It's a very exciting time."
The Toronto film fest runs Sept. 4 to 14.


text:
Tattoos are pretty popular in the NBA. Lots of players have them, and several of them have tattoos covering their arms and chests.
But even the guys who are covered, like "Birdman" and J.R. Smith, were once clean slates.
Some of the NBA players who now have the most tats looked like completely different people early in their careers.


text:
Recently, our Sisters Helena Paula and Thalyta, from Jataí; Maria Terezinha and Lécia, from Ipameri; our Associate Ataci, from Goiânia, Fr. Davi José and Fr. André Luís, from Minaçu, and our lay missionaries Kédna and Neide, from Ipameri; Aline, Thays and Caroline, from Jataí; and Eduarla, Angelina and Divinete, working together as a team, held a very successful three-day SFP Vocational Mission in Brazil. They also mingled with the young, visited the sick and prayed with the elderly.
Life is a series of experiences, sewn together like a patchwork quilt by capricious fate and our own choices. For us, faith provides the thread for our sewing -- all the pieces of our quilt are linked by this durable thread.
We now wish to share with you our experiences of sewing together the quilt of our Vocational Mission in the city of Minaçu, Goiás, from January 30 to February first.
How many colors these patches combine! Beautiful songs, great fun, mutual trust, shared happiness, thanksgiving (especially for Sister Thalyta Pereira Lima's recent profession of her Perpetual Vows), questions and much laughter. Each patch was sewn in along the path we trod through the city. We used a rainbow to colors for sharing our 'patchwork' of the experiences of our team members:
"Words cannot express the happiness I experienced in the three days we spent in Minaçu. I was delighted by the warm welcome from the parishioners, the involvement of the Parish ministries' teams, and by their ways of expressing affection to us.
After the Mass of Thanksgiving for my Perpetual Vows, a young woman came over and told me that she considers herself to be a future religious sister. Hearing this was one of my greatest joys in this mission."
Sr. Thalyta Pereira Lima – Jataí
"Go out to the whole world; proclaim the Good News to all creation!" (Mark 16: 15-18). "Whoever has left the house, brothers, sisters, father, mother, or spouse for the sake of ... the Gospel ... shall receive a hundredfold now in this time..." (Mark 10: 29-30). And indeed that's what happened with us. We left Minaçu enriched and strengthened in our faith, as Christian witness, with the community that welcomed us as brothers and sisters, as well as all other people we meet along our path. The vocational mission with the Franciscan Sisters of the Poor was a great grace and a remarkable experience for me."
Aline Santos Soares – Jataí
"It was a great learning experience for me because it was my first one as a lay missionary. Many of us relinquish things that are dear to us to be of service to God and our brothers and sisters in need. Yet, from the moment I arrived until the end of our mission, I could see the commitment of all the people who participated. "
Neide Landi Dias Arruda – Ipameri
"Our Vocational Mission in Minaçu was remarkable, and surprising. I am absolutely certain that the Holy Spirit acted in us during these three days. The companionship we felt from everyone we met added to our happiness, and willing to do this service again. I believe we left behind us a taste of the love of God in every place we spent some time with people. We planted the seeds that will sprout with the shower of blessings that God will pour out in those places."
Thays Nascimento Costa Garcia – Jataí
"The lived experience of this mission certainly was a great gift from God for me, strengthening my missionary ardor.
During those days I felt Christ as a closer presence in my life -- and I felt a responsibility for the lives of the people who experienced this grace with me. Sharing in this mission helped me see the world as God sees it.
Kédna Bisinoti – Ipameri
"Our mission to the city of Minaçu was not my first experience, but it was very different from all the other missions in which I have participated. I learned that although the Church is not a utopia, it can be united, and that it is our means to transform reality. I offered a bit of myself, a few words, some songs, and much joyful laughter... And I saw I was not alone, that there were many others offering their gifts to God, small or large. Together, we build the Church. "
Caroline Gomes Martins Forte – Jataí
"During this mission I carried in my heart a lot of confidence, but at the same time, many questions that still had not been answered. Arriving in Minaçu, however, we saw that everything had been prepared as planned. We slipped into the program and felt the hand of God guiding us, giving us wise thoughts and the courage to accomplish, with faith and serenity, the mission we had intended. It truly was a time of grace and a revelation of God's presence in our midst."
Sr. Maria Terezinha de Jesus – Ipameri
"What I liked the most in our Vocational Mission was to see how the Minaçu community is united and charismatic. The priests are lively and very popular. In our door-to-door visits, all the residents welcomed us cheerfully. Even our brothers and sisters attending Evangelical churches were warm to us."
Associate Ataci Almeida Borges – Goiânia
"I believe the goal of our Vocational Mission in Minaçu was met. I congratulate the people in charge of the overall organization. The collaboration of lay people made a huge difference. We saw that "The whole group of believers was united, heart and soul" (Acts 4:32). The Word of God was planted in people's hearts, and will be watered with Divine Dew to bear much fruit."
Sr. Helena Paula Carvalho – Jataí
"How many patches are still needed to be sewn to finish the quilt of our mission! I experienced many memorable moments during this event, but what impressed me most was the joy of all the lay missionaries: the spark in their eyes, a reflection of God's love. I remembered what our Father Francis of Assisi once wrote, "When our brothers returned from their mission they were struck with great joy!" I believe that this has also been the experience we had as we participated in this mission."
Sr. Lécia José da Silva – Ipameri
Published: March, 26, 2015


text:
Sunday, 31 May 2015
Paris Bateau
Saturday, 23 May 2015
Imitation Games
When did I get into the fake business? I'd always thought of myself as an honest person. Imitation designer bags, shoes, belts as well as accessories like sunglasses and jewellery; counterfeiting of any kind ruins the (fashion) industry and I'd always promised myself I would never get into that kind of imitation game.
In New York (last summer) I visited the Dior stand at Barneys, unfortunately the earrings were kind of expensive (as could be expected from such an high-end brand). Sad sad sad … Meanwhile fake ones (no Dior, false silver, synthetic pearls) were lurking at me way too many times in way too many shopping windows. Still I managed to resist. Until I discovered a set of double pearled earrings with an authentic nacre and sterling silver pearl. Couldn't resist any longer. They were fabulous and I wouldn't take them off. Besides the price-quality ratio was definitely okay. What was not to like about that? Why would one NOT buy these beauties, given the love and treasure hunt that had preceded the actual "discovery"? Next thing I remember is me paying for (and thus buying) the precious studs.
And that is how I got mixed up in counterfeiting. But then again: what exactly defines something as fraudulent imitation? Dior might have set the standard last year; my pair is brandless, doesn't have a fake Dior logo and is made from genuine materials. I guess it's simple: it's about a set of very nice earrings that were created to share with the "working class people" the joy and happiness that brings finalizing all your outfits with it. Anyhow, this is one way (my way) of getting away with the guilt that sneaks in, at times, when I'm wearing my new pair of favourite earrings.
P.S. Do you possess any imitation goods?
Posted by Elle Basi at 5/23/2015 No comments:
Subscribe to: Posts (Atom)