fickle fan.

Blog Tour: Right Where I Need to Be by Wendi Zwaduk

2010-04-26T15:48:00.000-07:00

So, welcome to another virtual book blog tour. This week, I am featuring Wendi Zwaduk, author of "Right Where I Need to Be." Comment on the post and one lucky commenter on all the sites that's featured in the tour may win an ebook from Wendi's catalogue.

So, without further adeau, Wendy's here with a guest blog on Being a Romance Author: Mirroring Life or a Total Illusion?

I’ve had stories in my head for as long as I can remember. When I was a kid, we had a tiny little grove of lilac bushes next to our house. My overactive imagination and I would play with my Barbies in the shade of those trees. I had a fascination for replaying and retelling the General Hospital episode I’d seen that day, but I always added my own twists. However, when I grew up (or told the world I’d grown up), I put the stories away and tried to be someone responsible. Not to say that telling stories is irresponsible, but I tried to be a 9-5 worker bee and found it wasn’t for me.
Then life intervened and I had the itch to start writing down the stories in my head. Once started, I never looked back.
So what can I say? Is being a romance author all it’s cracked up to be? You know, I really don’t know. I mean, yes, there are those authors who write their first book and make a zillion dollars. Will that be me? I’d love for it to, but I realize there is a certain beauty in being practical.
Has writing a book changed my life? Nope. I still drive my great big truck to get my youngling from school, I still have oodles of laundry that needs doing, and I have animals that choose when and where they want to cooperate and if they want to leave me...er... um... presents. I should probably spend more time on the treadmill and less time daydreaming, but what’s the fun in that? My life isn’t glamorous, but I kind of like it that way. I love romance, but I’m not a girly-girl, so if I had to be glamorous, I wouldn’t know what to do with myself.
But to ask if my stories parallel my life?
Yes and no.
Learning How to Bend is set in a little bitty town next to where I grew up. Crestline, Ohio is a real place one can go to visit. The Airlift Wing in Mansfield, Ohio really exists as well. I have a good friend who I used for a bit of inspiration for Seth, and yes, this friend of mine is in the Air Force. Between K and my hubby, I get all my plane and military information. The town Right Where I Need to Be is a conglomeration of a couple of towns I lived in while in college and right after. The library in the book is set up much like the library on my home town. One day I’d love to meet the inspiration for Logan, but I’d have to leave my little bitty town in Ohio to do that.
Otherwise, my life is boring compared to my books. Not that it’s a bad thing. If my life really paralleled my books, then I’d never have time to write them because I’d be, shall I say, busy. I’d love to write the next big novel, a la Charlaine Harris, Lori Foster, or even Lora Leigh. Will it happen? I don’t know. What I do know is whatever will happen is what’s meant to happen and I’m going to enjoy the ride.
So maybe the life of an author isn’t always thrilling, but it’s mine and I love it.

Book Information --- below is a blurb of Wendi's book, "Right Where I Need To Be", now available at Amazon.

Sometimes the love of your life isn’t the one you expect, but he’s the one you need.

Cass Jenson needs an actor for her made for TV movie. The previous actor dropped out, leaving her stranded. Her savior shows up looking sinfully sexy and totally right for the part, but what part is she auditioning him for? Her movie or her bed?

Logan Malone needs an acting job and fast. With his string of broken hearts, his professional life lies in shambles. To resurrect his career, he must audition for a television role which could be the job of a lifetime. That is, if he can work with distraction and Cass is a major distraction with a heart of gold. Is their budding relationship enough to survive separation, lies, and a couple zany fans?

For more info on the book tour, please click HERE

Personal Post

2010-04-25T21:41:00.000-07:00

And so, last weekend was a bum day for me.

Instead of going out and enjoying, I spent the weekend at home, and in bed. Which I hate.

I was supposed to go to a book discussion of the Hunger Games last Saturday and watch a movie with a friend on Sunday, but turns when I woke up on Saturday morning with my head feeling heavy, I knew I was not feeling my usual self. Add the fact that the heat outside [ugh. Unbearable heat, if you ask me], was enough to make my head spin faster.

I tried to take a shower to ease some of the heat off, but no, it didn't help.

So I just continued to lie in bed, with my meds for company, and Goofy the dog ocassionally looking after me, drifting in and out of sleep.

Guess this is how stress gets to you, yeah?

And I realized.... I don't like my job anymore. I want to do something else.

Flicking on Discovery Travel & Living, I became so jealous at the travelers. That's what I want. I want to travel.

I wish July would come sooner so I could go back to HK and Macau and not think about work.

On another note: I am typing this in work, where yes, I came in. I still have a bad cold, but I have to make some moolah.

And all this, to pay for necessities, and what little I have to save up and to travel.

So, how was your weekend?

Blog Tour: Nebula's Music by Aubrie Dionne

2010-04-20T15:42:00.000-07:00

**Comment at the end of this post for a chance to win some goodies from the author!**

Hiya everyone! It is my pleasure to host a blog tour for the first time. Wheeee! So below is an interview with Aubrie Dionne and I hope you guys support her by getting her book "Nebula's Music"!

ficklefan: Where did you get your inspiration for your book?

Aubrey Dionne: I love the genre of Space Opera. I’m a big fan of Star Wars, Star Trek, Pitch Black, Serenity, anything that has romance and action up in space! Nebula’s music is my first foray into that genre and boy did I have a great time writing it.

Nebula is inspired by the character Data from The Next Generation. I watched star Trek growing up at 7pm and 7:30pm every night for about seven years. Data's journey to become more human fascinated me. There was one scene where he plays the violin and I marveled at the fact that he can take up an instrument and play it perfectly in minutes compared to a human that has to spend a lifetime perfecting their skills. But did his music have emotion? Probably not.

Nebula is not entirely an andriod. She's made from a real human and experiences that woman's past memories. In a way, she's closer to being human than Data can ever be, but can she break some of the barriers that he never could? Can she experience fear, triumph, or fall in love? Would a human reciprocate that love?

ficklefan: What book are you reading now, are you currently enjoying it?

Aubrey Dionne: I'm currently reading Shadowmarch by Tad Williams and I love it. It's epic fantasy on a grand scale. The books in my to be read pile are: The Boneshaker by Cherie Priest, and Me and Mr. Darcy by Alexandra Potter.

ficklefan: Do you set a writing time wherein you have to achieve x number of words written?

Aubrey Dionne: I try to get one thousand words a day, five days a week. Some weeks are better than others, but that seems to work for me. I end up writing a short story every month and a new book every six months.

ficklefan: Who are the authors you admire, and why?

Aubrey Dionne: I admire the old classics: Jane Austen (Pride and Prejudice), Lord Tennyson (The Lady of Shalott), and Charlotte Bronte (Jane Eyre). They set the stage for all of us!

ficklefan: After reading your book, would you have any suggestions on what to read next?

Aubrey Dionne: My next novel, Messenger in the Mist, comes out in July. It's about a messenger torn between two kingdoms, scheduled to deliver a letter that carries the assassination plans for the man she loves.

ficklefan: Do you have any guilty pleasures that you wish to share?

Aubrey Dionne: Chocolate, watching Pirates of the Caribbean over and over again, checking my email all the time, and watching Ghost Hunters.

ficklefan: Aside from writing, what are the other things you'd want to do?

Aubrey Dionne: I play and teach flute for my other career and I love playing in orchestras and playing for weddings. I'd also like to travel to England, Australia, and Aruba!

ficklefan: Can you relate in some ways with your main character? If so, why?

Aubrey Dionne: Oh yes! Every character that I write has part of me in them. Nebula is only a few years old, so she's socially behind. I was the youngest in my grade and so I struggled with the same problems all the way through high school. I was the last one to drive, I was the last one to wear makeup, etc etc.

Thank you for the interview!

Aubrie

BOOK SYNOPSIS:

Each note brings her one step closer to the truth.

When the cyborg Nebula plays the piano she experiences memories from a time before her creation. These memories—which involve a captive rebel fighter being held on their ship—bring with them complex human feelings and awaken a desire for her to discover her origins.

Radian is the long-lost love of the woman from which Nebula was made. He’s vowed to avenge his finance’s death and rescue her sister from the Gryphonites, a fierce race out to enslave the galaxy. Nebula grapples with her identity and how much of who she is comes from someone else’s past. She is not the woman that died, yet she is undeniably drawn to Radian.

Together Nebula and Radian seek to rescue his fiancé’s sister and end the Gryphonites’ cruel reign. But can Radian learn to love again and can Nebula accept a past made from someone else’s memories?

Ilustrado Book Launch.

2010-04-17T06:37:00.000-07:00

I find that there's not much book launches done here in Manila. I was absolutely stoked when I saw an ad from National Bookstore that Miguel Syjuco is launching his debut novel, "Ilustrado" on April 10th.

At first, I was a bit hesitant to go -- the heat is overbearing in MNL and well, that's the only thing that's stopping me. But then I realized: "How many book launches will I ever get to go this year?" And so I dragged myself from my comfortable bed and went to the event.

I was a bit early, I arrived around 1:15PM and it turns out that the press launch was at 1:00PM and the book signing was at 2:00. I was just in time! Yay! So, I listened to Miguel as he talked about his book to the media, how he had felt when he won the prestigious Man Asia Literary Prize and the Palanca Book Award, and where he got his inspiration from his books [ie he lifted some parts from his own favourite books]

This is the first time I attended [albeit accidentally] a press launch and I don't really know what to expect! I did manage to get some videos but please bear with me if I can't upload them now.

After the talk, there was a Q&A session and one of the cutest thing that happened was Miguel answering a difficult question his mum had asked him!

There was an autograph signing after the talk and I managed to get my book and a friend's book signed too. For those living in Manila, if you didn't get your book signed during the event, you can still avail of a 20% book discount to Ilustrado until April 30th if you buy the book from National Bookstore. Regular price is P385, sale price is now P308! That's quite a huge price difference, you can still use that extra money to buy sale books or commute! =)

Forgive the photos - i was seated way out back and I only brought my basic point & shoot camera with me to the launch.

New Blog address!

2010-04-14T23:11:00.000-07:00

Please note that I've moved my blog from rubylovesadventure.blogspot.com to http://theficklefan.blogspot.com/

Yay! :)

April 2010 Readathon Wrap-Up

2010-04-11T21:10:00.000-07:00

Hiya Everyone!

Sorry wasn't able to update the blog yesterday during the readathon. Well, as I was typing yesterday's blog, my mum and I had a row and so I kept to myself most of the time in my room, trying to complete the 24 hours reading The Hunger Games. I had a headache from sleeping and trying to read too!

So, final stats:

- Read 65 pages of the Hunger Games
- Read 100+ pages of Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire.

And that's about it. Kinda slow, huh?

There was a massive bookshelf organization project that I also did yesterday which took up most of my time, and I cheated. I watched some TV too. I can't help it! =)

How was your readathon, guys? Hope your readathon was much more productive than mine! Until the October run!

April 2010 Readathon Day Two Updates

2010-04-10T19:49:00.000-07:00

Good morning everyone! I was kicked out by hour 5 last night from my mom's room where I had no internet nor computer so I just stayed in my room, relaxed, and read the Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins. I was making some progress until I got sleepy.

The sandman eventually got me at 1:30AM my time [1:30PM EST] and I woke up at 9AM my time [9PM EST]. What a riot. I forgot to turn on my alarm clock for 6:30AM. Oh well.

Anyway, I finally found some internet time now, after eating breakfast and relaxing a bit by watching telly so off I go to do my updates and also join in the mini-challenges and cheerlead a bit. I'm also converting some shows into mp4 format to put into my iPod and uploading photos and videos from a book launch I went to yesterday. Multitasking much?

MINI-CHALLENGE from The Lost Entwife

This mini-challenge asks us if our favourite book has been made into a movie and if not, to cast an actor/actress for our favourite character. Easy?

For me, my favourite book before was Confessions of a Shopaholic. I was more than stoked when I found out they were going to make a movie out of it, and lo and behold! Hugh Dancy was cast as Luke Brandon.

As I was reading the book before, I kinda pictured Luke to be the quintessential gorgeous British dude. And thank goodness they had cast Hugh Dancy into the role. Who could've been more perfect? If not him, I would also settle for Henry Cavill [The Tudors. Yum Yum].

April 2010 Readathon Hour 3 Mini Challenge

2010-04-10T07:35:00.000-07:00

Whee! I love these mini-challenges and I do try to partake in each and every one of them whenever possible :)

So, here's another mini-challenge hosted by Till We Read Again for Hour Three.

Its nominating our favourites in the books we've read. Excellent, yes?

Favorite Female Character in a book: For now, its Katniss Everdeen from The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins
Favorite Male Character in a book: Luke Brandon from Confessions of a Shopaholic.
Favorite Side Kick in a book: Ron Weasley from the Harry Potter series.
Favorite Couple in a Book: Rebecca Bloomwood and Luke Brandon from the Shopaholic Series [Sophie Kinsella]. I just love the both of them!
Favorite Book Series: Hmmmm...... Tough. For now, I'd have to say The Harry Potter series by JK Rowling.
Favorite Author: For now, Dan Brown.
Favorite Book Cover: The Luxe by Anna Godbersen. I love the gown!
Favorite Book of 2009: Cleopatra's Daughter by Michelle Moran

April 2010 Readathon Hour Two Mini-Challenge

2010-04-10T07:10:00.000-07:00

So I'm taking part in the Hour two mini-challenge hosted by Miss Remmers Review called the Kick Off of Champions.

The challenge asks the readers what have they surrounded themselves in this early hours of the readathon?

I don't want to type much detail on what I'm doing now so I'm going to let the pictures do all the talking whilst I do a bit of a short description on every photo. I'm running a bit behind and I can't believe Hour three is up!

So, first photo, this is my internet explorer screenshot. As you can see, I've got multitudes of windows up -- I'm cheering as well so some of the other windows in there are blogs of those that i'm cheering on. If you notice on the bottom there's a message "Low Disk Space". I don't normally go online much but when I do, I download some stuff online. This long amounts of online time means my hard drive is trying to cope up with all my downloads!

Second photo -- these are the books that I'm currently reading. They're sprawled right on my mum's bed right now, but they'll be moving house to my room soon.

Right now I'm seated in front of the PC in my mum's room but pretty soon I'll be moving to my room where I'll be reading propped up in bed!

That's about it now :) Off to do some more reading and cheering and I'll be checking in the new mini-challenges for hour three now!

April 2010 Readathon Updates - Day One

2010-04-10T06:05:00.000-07:00

Hello everyone, it's another 24-hour readathon. This is the second time I've joined such an event, given that I had so much fun the last time :)

I've signed up for both a cheerleader and a reader this time so thank goodness for audiobooks.

The below are my updates. I'll continue to edit this post as we go from hour to hour so I'll only have one permalink up. Having too many can be confusing.

Now, I've just gone from a recent book launch so that post will have to wait until I could get all my readathon updates done! So, on to the updates.

So, here's my list of books to read:
1. The Hunger Games - Suzanne Collins
2. Harry Potter & the Goblet of Fire - JK Rowling
3. The Girl Made of Cool - Alan Fox

HOUR ONE

Okay, I have a confession. I thought that the readathon was supposed to start at 9pm my time. But I forgot that DST is now finished so we're only 12 hours ahead instead of the usual 13. Anyway, I managed to get a bit of reading done, via an audiobook of course.

HOUR ONE MEME MINI CHALLENGE

Where are you reading from today?

- At the moment I am reading from my mum's bedroom where there's a good wifi signal. After 11pm our time [11AM EST], I'm gonna be kicked out and will read from my room.

3 facts about me …

- I love boybands. Absolutely positively love boybands.
- I am a hoarder
- I love to travel.

How many books do you have in your TBR pile for the next 24 hours?

- I currently have three for now. Which I'm not sure if I would finish at least one of them.

Do you have any goals for the read-a-thon (i.e. number of books, number of pages, number of hours, or number of comments on blogs)?

- Nothing in particular, just trying to read as much as I can.

If you’re a veteran read-a-thoner, Any advice for people doing this for the first time?

- Just enjoy and remember, the point of the readathon is to have fun, fun fun!

HOUR TWO

I've joined a few mini challenges now and I'm getting super stoked about them! I'm concentrating on Harry Potter & The Goblet of Fire but I haven't kept track of the number of pages i've read! eeeep!

HOUR THREE

My mum is currently reading Eclipse by Stephenie Meyer. I swear she now reads faster than I do. My gosh. I've joined yet another mini challenge. My back is now aching like crazy! Still reading Harry Potter & Goblet of Fire! I've cheered on a few participants from my assignment.

HOUR FOUR

Right. My mum has now gone off to bed so I'm gonna be kicked out a few minutes from now. I wouldn't be able to provide updates until the morning [our time] then. I'm gonna be reading the Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins as soon as my mp4 file conversion is done and I need to move back to my room. I'm gonna wish you all a good night a few minutes from now. :)

In My Mailbox #13

2010-04-03T21:36:00.000-07:00

I haven't taken a photo of the books I've received or bought recently so here's a backlog of books that I need to read! :)

Bought:

So I was at a used bookstore lately and I found the following: Blood Lite [by various authors] and Rivals for the Crown by Kathleen Givens. They cost around $3 each, which isn't too bad now, is it? I love that they look almost new, and considering that Blood Lite was released just a year ago, I would say I had made a good deal of it :)

Next, a friend of mine recently bought some stuff from Amazon.com and the fangirl in me wanted to catch up with the latest DVDs and books of my favourite bands. So, to my left are DVDs of Boys Like Girls and the latest concert of Take That: The Circus Live, which was filmed from Wembley Stadium. Awesome! I wish I was there live as well.

And last but not the least, included on our Amazon.com order was the autobiography of Girls Aloud called Dreams That Glitter. This is one of two girlbands that I like, and I love the cover of this book! It's got glitters all over the front. LOVE!

So, what did you get in your mailboxes?

Hello April!

2010-03-31T19:58:00.000-07:00

It's Maundy Thursday right now and I'm at work. Oh yeah. Not very pleasant, isn't it? But work is work and I have to earn some moolah sooooo *shrug*

Anyway, just want to share some upcoming events that I'm very very excited about!

- The 24 Hour Readathon.
This starts on April 10th to 11th 2010 from 8PM Manila Time [We're GMT +7 now] and ends 24 hours later. You can sign up for either a cheerleader or a reader here: http://www.24hourreadathon.com/

I've made a list of books for me to read, mainly:
1. Harry Potter & the Goblet of Fire - JK Rowling
2. How To Win Friends & Influence People - Dale Carnegie
3. The Girl Made of Cool - Alan Fox.

- A Long Holiday.
Oh yes. Since it's the Holy Week here in Manila, I am prepared to just have a nice, relaxing holiday at home. No travel plans for this week, just bumming around, surfing the internet, updating the other blog, reading and catching up on loads of missed out telly shows and movies. Busy week ahead!

A Boycott on DHL Express Philippines for Delivering Books

2010-03-30T20:11:00.000-07:00

I am so pissed. I just need to post this blog out to share to the world how sucky DHL Express Philippines is!

Let me tell you the WHOLE story point by point:

- This March, I won a book giveaway sponsored by a publishing company in the USA.
- I have no clue when the package will be sent as the blog who hosted the giveaway was the one who got my details.
- Last March 26th, said publishing company sent over the book via DHL US.
- Yesterday, March 30th, the book arrived at my home, but guess what? They levied taxes on me. Not just any tax, but a HUGE amount of tax. So huge in fact, that the amount that was supposed to be paid was even larger than the amount of the book that I was to receive.
- Since I was not around to receive the package, our maid was, she was afraid to not pay the customs levy because she thought I might not receive the package.
- When I got home that night, I scoured the bill and lo and behold, I got billed for the following:

Informal Entry Declaration - 30 PHP
VAT for Informal Entry Declaration - 3.60
Import Processing Fee - 250 PHP [What the hell is this? Books aren't supposed to be taxed, right?]
Customs Documentary Stamps - 265 PHP

Now, I am against this taxing of books. Hello? If the Philippine Government doesn't tax me on books, then why should DHL? I received other books from other couriers and no, they don't tax the books either. I got them safe and sound with no extra charges.

So why did DHL Express Philippines tax these books? Are they not aware of the 2009 decree that Arroyo stated?

Calling their call centre, someone tried to explain that every package that is handled by DHL Express Philippines is billed an Import Processing Fee. Come on! Don't give me that BULL! What if I'm a receiver of some important packages, does that mean I have to pay my share of fees too when clearly, the sender has managed to pay them out before you send them???

I am annoyed. I've been contacting their call centres for an hour now and I've received the following feedback:
- Let me forward your phone call to so-and-so. Okay. But then again they are not in the office!
- They put me on hold but then the line was dropped. Hello? Talk about customer service?? You are making me more irate here! I just want an explanation on why these charges are levied, and how did they come to that! I want also a refund if needed if I could prove my point that the package should not have been taxed in the first place!
- I tried calling for the fourth time and they automatically transferred me to the contact person who was out of the office again. Don't they have another manager they could escalate the issue to?

Also, it is clearly stated that the book's unit value price was at $1 from the commercial invoice. So how did their personnel get those computations from above?

It's the Holy Week starting tomorrow and when shall I get a feedback on this case? On Monday? Come on!
I thought that DHL was supposed to be customer oriented and blah blah blah. NOT!

Use other couriers instead. This is definitely not worth your time, effort, money and hassle.

Yes, I am fuming about paying the P500+ thing to this company. Yes, I want a refund if they could score me a refund. If not, then let that be a lesson to me and the maid [will have a LONG chat with her about this later]. If such a thing arises again, I'll refuse to pay them. Hell, I'll let them return the book to the sender. I don't care! This is not right!

Gah. I hate this country's system sometimes!

See more articles below.

See: http://www.quezon.ph/2009/05/04/the-long-view-the-great-book-blockade-of-2009/
This issue has been already discussed in the Great Book Blockade of 2009 and this was already lifted late 2010 as well! Why in the world is DHL not informed that books for personal consumption are supposed to be tax-free? See article dated as of May 25, 2009 from the Philippine Star:
Source: http://www.philstar.com/article.aspx?articleid=471074&publicationsubcategoryid=63

“President Arroyo ordered the immediate lifting of the customs duty on book importation,” Remonde said in a text message to The STAR.

“The President wants books to be within reach of the common man. She believes reading as an important value for intellectual formation, which is the foundation of a healthy public opinion necessary for a vibrant democracy,” he said.

Remonde said Mrs. Arroyo directed Finance Secretary Margarito Teves to revoke Finance Department Order 17-09 which imposes duty on book importation.

Review: The Dust of 100 Dogs by A.S. King

2010-03-27T08:26:00.000-07:00

It was the 1700s, and Emer Morrisey was on the brink of escaping her pirate life with Seanie, her first and true love. But before she could, her archenemy cursed her to live the lives of 100 dogs before being reborn again as a human. It was now the 21st century, and Emer is finally reborn as Saffron. Born with her memories intact, she is the genius of the family and is their hope for the future. However, she has other plans in mind: to turn 18 and sail off to Jamaica to retrieve the treasure she has left behind.

This book is very witty indeed. It successfully blends the historical and the contemporary, and presents a main character who is lovable and funny even though she is quite a bit neurotic at times. Saffron/Emer has this habit of trying to dismember, kill, or do other torturous stuff to people whenever she gets cross or annoyed with them. This is so funny that I can't help laughing! A.S. King has managed to capture the teenage female psyche - lost, rebellious, and well, bratty at times. She has also given us a powerful dose of girl power here. From what we know, most notorious pirates were boys but hey, here comes a girl pirate! Awesome.

At the start of the book, you get the impression that Saffron was just a typical girl. But as you read through the pages, you find out [as I did] that she is very misunderstood and what brought her to her current life was a very, very tumultuous past. From a very young age, she has been through a lot and has been forced to grow up and just be the way she is. I'm sure if anyone of us had that type of experience, we would also be forced to grow up too. Saffron/Emer has a very strong personality that many of us aspire to have.

I loved the historical elements of the book. They were presented in a manner that intrigues and drives you to google. I googled them and yes, they are historically accurate. The chapters dividing the book were also mixed wonderfully where the contemporary is in one chapter, and a historical/flashback aspect the next, without confusing the reader.

This is a must read. I would never have picked up this book if it wasn't recommended to me and I'm more than happy that it was recommended. A friend of mine who I loaned the book to was asking if this was going be the next movie blockbuster. I just hope it will be, as the concept of the book was utterly awesome.

Published: 2009
Publisher: Flux
Available from: Amazon and perhaps your local booksellers
Read it if: You want something new and exciting!! Very, very good book
Book was acquired from: A.S. King [many many thanks for signing the book + for the other books too]. This was part of Lenore's International Book Bloggers Mentoring Program.
fickle fan/overall rating:

The review above is also featured in Cym Lowell's Book Review Wednesdays.

Review: The First Ever English Olympick Games by Celia Haddon

2010-03-26T19:26:00.000-07:00

This non-fiction book is all about the first English Olympics that were supposedly played in 1612 in the Cotswolds. These games promoted camaraderie between the people, instead of them being involved in drinking and causing uprisals throughout the kingdom.

The facts were based mostly on a reference book, "the Annalia Dubrensia", a poetry book commissioned by Robert Dover to celebrate his games, we finally get a glimpse of the first English olympics. Seems like these games were known and enjoyed by the masses, and is more common to the modern olympics of today.

So, what do I think of the book? First off, it was written in a typical non-fiction manner -- quite boring. It's laden with facts that have been repeated several times all over the book and I got the distinct feeling that I was reading something for school, even though I'm not. It feels more like an academic paper too, a project that a student did as part of a school requirement. Nevertheless, the book is quite a good background on these English games. I initially picked it up as an introduction to the upcoming 2012 Olympics but it just left me quite disapppointed.

Published: 2004
Publisher: Hodder & Stoughton
Available from: Amazon
Read it if: You want to do some back reading on the history of the Olympic Games in England.
Book was acquired by: myself. Mooched it from bookmooch.
fickle fan rating: [read more about my rating at my new blog fickle fan]

Review: WOW - A Handbook for Living

2010-03-19T20:00:00.000-07:00

Wow: A Handbook for Living is a self-help book that teaches you on how to be successful in your daily life. Filled with quotable quotes, cutesy little photos, enumerated steps and space for you to write your thoughts and actions on, the book is designed for you to remember what you have learned from the book and to write down your action points after every step.

Although you have the final say on whether or not you will follow these methodologies as outlined in the book, the authors do insist that you find out your own processes given their guide and master their basic principles to make your life more happy and fulfilled.

Thoughts: I love the presentation of the ideas in the book. I love the photos and all the little notes beside every chapter that summarizes a main thought. Since I have the ARC, I'm not sure if the finished copy would have coloured pages, which would be even better! I would love some colour in these photos! Would I use the book's principles in my life? Well, maybe yes, maybe no. Even before I read the book, I was already using some of the principles outlined in the book. Although not consciously, i think some of these are innate to us, we just don't know how to harness it. This book is just a great reminder to keep doing what I am doing, and for others to also be guided along and recognize those characteristics that are innate to all of us.

Some notable chapters that I love [won't type them all down, it'll be a spoiler then]:

"Say it with how instead of why"
When you plan for something, set an exact date and record the outcome
Where do you see yourself x years from now?

And so, the summary of my points above:
Published: March 2010 [Paperback]
Publisher: One Peace Books
Available from: everywhere, i think!
Read it if: you need a bit of guidance on how to have a more positive outlook in your life or if going through a tiny bit of a crisis
Book was acquired from: Rebecca from The Cadence Group [Many, many thanks for sending this book over for me to review!]
fickle fan rating: [read more about my fickle fan rating]

This post is also featured at Cym Lowell's Book Review Wednesdays.

In My Mailbox # 12

2010-03-13T05:17:00.000-08:00

I haven't posted one of these lately, so I thought it's apt that I post again :)

It's my first time to receive a package as huge as the one below. It was sent over by the lovely author A.S. King and was part of IBBMP [International Book Bloggers Mentoring Program] that Lenore of Presenting Lenore is hosting! Do go over to their site and show them some love! :)

So, what's in the package?

1. Sarah Dessen - Along for the Ride

2. The Opposite of Invisible - Liz Gallagher

3. Wish You Were Dead - Todd Strasser

4. The Dust of 100 Dogs - A.S. King [signed]

I am currently reading the Dust of 100 dogs. I started it during my holiday and I'm loving it! Dogs + Fantasy + historical elements + pirates = lots of fun! I would never have thought of picking up this book if it weren't recommended to me! Excellent stuff! I was actually hooked and surprised at the book at the same time. The review should be up before March ends so do watch out for it!

So, what did you get in your mailboxes?

Review: Extravagance by Gary Krist

2010-03-07T20:33:00.000-08:00

It was London during the 1690s. On his quest for his own fortune, William Tobias Merrick travels from his family's country home to live with his uncle in London, where various financial opportunities lay. He then meets his connections -- Ted Witherspoon, a cunning stock broker, Jack Petroni, an assistant to Ted Witherspoon, his two uncles, and several other people along the way. At the same time, William Merrick is also in New York. For some reason, the book happens in two parallel worlds, probably showing the differences or similarities between those times [300 years apart], where there is a tech stock boom, but still the same old story.

Did my synopsis sound confused? Well, I was confused with the story. The parallel setting for me as I was reading the book felt like I hit a wall and I had to retrace my steps again. The characters well dull, one-dimensional and undeveloped. The setting was confusing [I mean, having New York for one and then London for another?]. I mean, it would've been better if there were two parallel time periods shown [1690s and 1990s] but the author concentrated on just one city. But then again, that's just me. What's the saving grace of the book? Hmm... probably the financial part of it. I initially picked up this book because I was interested in the premise where there's two parallel places and time periods and the author is trying to make his mark in the financial world. I never expected it to be presented this way! I was thinking it more of a comparison of sorts. *sigh* I can't complain much now, could I, as I've already read the book and wasted my time on it?

Anyhow, let's just get on with the details and I do apologise - I believe this is the first book I've ever read which has gotten the lowest marks of all. It's currently at the top in the running for worst reads of 2010 and it's just March!

Published: 2003
Publisher: Broadway
Available from: Amazon's Affiliates. I dunno if Amazon really does offer this book too!
Read it if: Uhm.. I would say don't read it at all but if you want to try it then feel free to do so!
Book was acquired by: myself. Bought it in a used bookstore for $0.50. And it's a good thing I bought it for dirt cheap too, otherwise I would've wasted both my time and my money for it!
fickle fan rating: [read more about my rating at my new blog fickle fan.

Review: Extravagance by Gary Kirst

2010-03-06T05:26:00.000-08:00

Review: Percy Jackson & The Olympians- The Lightning Thief

2010-03-03T23:55:00.000-08:00

Percy Jackson is about to be kicked out of boarding school. Again. Seems like this kid has been going through boarding school after boarding school year after year, causing trouble that he did not mean to do to other students. Every year, strange things have been happening to Percy, not that he takes special attention to it, though. Until one year, he realizes that his best friend is a satyr, his mother was taken hostage in the underworld, his father is one of the Olympians, and he finds out he's a demigod with a quest to fulfill. Everything changes for Percy: from a normal pre-teen boy with dyslexia, he has to step up and try to save the Western civilization from utter chaos by finding the thief who stole Zeus' master bolt.

Thoughts - I loooove to read and plus plus points await those books that will make me want to learn new stuff: to make me spend hours on end on Wikipedia or Google, trying to find out more about a specific topic. This book was definitely a good start: it made me interested in Greek mythology again! Let's see.. the last time I read something about Greek mythology, I was in seventh grade and we need it for school. Now, I want to dive for Bufinch's mythology and re-read it! Good thing my parents bought me a hardcover book -- it literally lasts so much longer!

Anyway, the way Rick Riordan writes about the gods makes me feel as if they are alive, walking around earth and not just names from myths, legends, and lore. He also writes about these characters in such an unconventional way -- I love the fact that he doesn't portray Hades as a bad guy. In fact, Rick Riordan never really portrays any of the gods as bad people, just moody little beings. After all, these gods have every right to. They rule the earth, right? The characters are also smart, witty, funny and three-dimensional [well, except for Smelly Gabe for me. Gosh, I hate him!]

The book is written in a humorous way to make the subject light while keeping the readers interested in the facts that the author is churning on about. Dang, now I wish these books had been written when I was a young adult. It'll make me remember more about these Olympians, quite useful if you have an exam or something! He even provides codes for you to remember the gods names alone - ie the formation of the gods in Olympus and in Camp Half-Blood, as well as numbers for each of the gods. Ingenius.

This novel is very, very excellent. Good start for the rest of the series. It kept me hooked! And yes, I want to read the next novel, but will probably get a copy when I find one on sale. The cheapskate in me strikes again [then again, I have a bazillion interests to fund too].

So, is this the next Harry Potter series? Maybe. Maybe not, but Riordan certainly provided a breath of fresh air to an otherwise aging lore! This is very much worth your time and effort so do read it. The book isn't like the movie, don't be fooled!

And so, on to the rating & information:
Published: 2005
Publisher: Disney Hyperion
Available from: your local bookstore everywhere, Amazon, Barnes & Noble, maybe even your local used bookstore!
Read it if: You want a light YA read and something that tackles the greek gods.
Book was acquired by: myself. Bought it in a bookstore while my friend and I were browsing around and she said I had to read it before the movie comes out. And I did!
fickle fan rating: [read more about my rating at my new blog fickle fan.

Review: Percy Jackson & The Olympians- The Lightning Thief

2010-03-03T06:55:00.000-08:00

The Rating System

2010-03-01T04:55:00.000-08:00

The Rating System.

Since it is hard to pick a number between one to something in order to rate something, I devised my own rating system! It comprises of the following and the order in which I prefer or do not prefer something.

So, here goes. The ranking with the highest marks goes to obsessed. By definition: controlled by a powerful force such as a strong emotion. I rarely feel this way about something so if I rate something with that mark then it means it's left me with a very lasting impression

The next mark after obsessed is fanatical. By definition: marked by excessive enthusiasm for and intense devotion to a cause or idea. In my band world, I have certain bands whom I am fanatical about but not obsessed. I dunno if you guys could relate sooo *shrug*.

Love. The third highest from the list. What can I say. I just love the thing I'm reviewing but definitely not fanatical nor obsessed about it. I can normally remember something by certain scenes, or events that took place.

Raves. When I rave about something, I normally tell it to my friends. Same with the stuff I love, am obsessed about or am fanatical about. It means that it's given me a good impression on something, I admire the effort of the person who performed or wrote the book.

Self-explanatory. When you like something, you normally just look at it and forget it after some time if you don't put an effort to remember said memory. Same here.

Something that didn't really impress me but willing to give it a try. Something that I might give a second-thought about but needless to say, I'm not completely over the fence on this one.

Pass. Definitely not worth your time and effort. Don't make the same mistake as I did.

And that's about it! =) If you have further questions, please feel free to comment on the below :)

The Review Policy

2010-02-25T19:47:00.000-08:00

Okay, since I'll be reviewing a variety of books, events, telly shows and movies, I figured it'll be better to just write one review policy.

If you're interested in letting me review your event/book/show, please send me an email at:

rubs.escalona@gmail.com

Books
For publicists, authors, or publishing companies, I do accept books for review if you're willing to send internationally. I currently live in the Philippines, in South East Asia.

I normally accept and review any type of book - general fiction, historical, biographies, you name it, except for ebooks - I don't have a love affair with them nor do I particularly appreciate them. Apologies, I currently can't review ebooks at the moment. So, that leaves only printed media and/or audiobooks. For audiobooks, I would prefer if the files are sent over in mp3 format, however, CDs are also good too.

All books would be reviewed, regardless if I like it or not, but I cannot guarantee when the book review will be posted, but I will, however, send you an email with all the links to where I posted my review once the post has been up. Aside from book reviews, the books you've sent over may be featured in any of the following posts:

In My Mailbox -- features books that I've received for review, borrowed or bought
Spotlight -- features books I am currently reading or am going to provide a review for over the next month.

As a given, books provided for review are also posted to the following websites:

Amazon.com
Shelfari
Goodreads
Librarything
Fickle Fan blog.

All reviews are of my own opinion, and normally features a two to three-paragraph summary containing the following:

A summary of the book based on my own understanding [would not include spoilers]
My review and personal thoughts regarding the book.

The Fickle Fan

2010-02-24T19:57:00.000-08:00

Since this is a fairly new blog of mine, let me introduce myself, the Fickle Fan.

The Fickle Fan loves to review and critique stuff. And no, most of the stuff the fickle fan reviews are bought by her own money, although I wouldn't say no to any free stuff, would I? But then again, even if you gave me free stuff, my opinion is still as just and I stick with it. Humph.

Why the name? Well, I was pondering on it one day and while I was taking a shower, I got a Hallelujah moment when this idea got stuck to my head. I have a bazillion different interests, and following a bazillion different authors/artists/bands/books/telly shows/movies/actors/actresses [well, you get the drift], and so I'll just lump them all up in one website and you readers could read through my mostly crazy and wacky adventures. Sounds cool, huh?

A more formal definition is:
Fickle - Quick to change one’s opinion or allegiance
Fan - an enthusiastic devotee

Join them together and my own definition is:
fickle fan - an enthusiastic devotee who is quick to change one's opinion or allegiance.

Since there are multiple books/telly shows/artists [you knooooow, you should get the drift by now], I figure life is too short to just obsess about one particular thing, so might as well make the most out of the diversity there. Only one rule applies to me though: I ALWAYS stick to my BIG THREE in music:
Boys Like Girls, Boyzone and Take That .

Uh-huh.

So that's about wraps it up.

I wouldn't want to delve into any of my personal details. Except that yes, I do work full time, as I need the funds to support myself, my fanaticism and anything else under the sun and I do this as a part-time basis only.
Although I do love that it encompasses nearly 60% of my time too =)

I read, watch, stalk, do everything in between work and well, you guessed it, my 24hour day is usually packed.

Enjoy the blog, and as per my tag line, "live vicariously through me" [without spending much]

Review: The Call of the World by Trent Newcomer

2010-02-19T19:21:00.000-08:00

Nowadays, traveling is an essential part of life. It is a chance to explore new places, learn more about yourself and the culture of the place you are going to and is an adventure, in itself. A chance to know that you are just one tiny being in the huge world we are moving in.

Very few people do get a chance to travel, and very few people get an opportunity to take a few years off and just discover what's out there. In this book, Trent Newcomer decides to leave his corporate job and the safety of his routine life back at home and just backpack to different countries. He traveled for over a year and a half, and this book is his memoir, so to speak, of those travels: the places he visited, and the people he met along the way. With every new place, he did not have a set itinerary, only a goal: to continuously strive to expand the boundaries of his comfort zone.

This book is biographical so I cannot comment much on characters, settings, and the like, so this review is also non-traditional in a sense. I admire Trent for having the guts to do this. I know it isn't easy to leave the comfort of your life back home, with a steady-paying job, your friends, and just go off on your own over yonder. I admire him for not having a steady itinerary and not jumping in to some of the tourist traps that the countries he had went to offered. As you read through the book, you'll have a feeling of wanting to go to the places he went as well. He described his adventures so vividly and provided information on the places he stayed in and areas that few travelers would ever think of going, which are hidden gems of the area, so to speak. His feelings are clear in the book: there are no holds barred, like his fears of entering a mountain bike race when he is physically unprepared, and how customs officials may single you out for not exactly having the best appearance whilst on the border.

The book is an enjoyable read, it is informative for future travelers like me who intend to follow in the example that Trent has led. He and so many others have proven to the world, that yes, it can be done, and you just need to take the first step to reach the goals that you want. And well, yes, lots of planning beforehand [the places, how much it would cost, and maybe contact long-lost friends along the way]. However, I feel as if the chapters and the narratives on the countries he visited were a bit too short. I feel it left me hanging and gives me the thought "that's it??" Perhaps Trent should have presented the book by continent, to provide more information on what he did in a particular country, but that's just me. I know it must have been hard for him to trim down his memoirs from his 4000++ page journal into the 300+ page book that he has presented now. Fellow readers, please also keep an open mind as you read the book. Not all the situations Trent has found himself on his travels may happen to you, after all, it has been 15 years since he has embarked on this trip and things may have changed since then. And within those 15 years, we have been blessed with budget airlines, fast trains, mobile internet, GPS-enabled phones, so we have it easier right now compared to what he has encountered before.

This book is a light read, and will definitely inspire you to see more of the world and just step out of your comfort zone, however hard it may prove to be. All you need is to take that first step and you are on your way!

And so, on to the rating & information:
Published: 2009
Publisher: iUniverse
Available from: Barnes & Noble and the iUniverse bookstore.
Final Rating: 4/5 [I liked it, it is very inspiring, as I have said again and again in my post above]
Read it if: You want to discover new places to go to and want to be inspired in people's travel stories.

**Many, many thanks to Trent Newcomer for sending this book over. **

In My Mailbox # 11

2010-02-09T17:59:00.000-08:00

In My Mailbox is a weekly meme hosted by The Story Siren and inspired by Alea of Pop Culture Junkie. It features bought, borrowed, or received books as well as other cool stuff from the mail. Isn't it fun?

For this week, I've received quite a few parcels and bought a few books but I wasn't able to take photos of them so they'll be featured in the future installments of the In My Mailbox post! :)

I'm finally finally trying to catch up with the backlog now so I hope you guys don't mind! I don't have any planned events until the last week of February so I can breathe again! LOL.

So, what did I get in my Mailbox for this week?

Bought:
- Percy Jackson and the Olympians: The Lightning Thief ---> In preparation for the movie that I'm scheduled to watch on February 20th! I'm currently on page 220 of this and it's got me hooked! I'm still deliberating whether I'll get the second book already or just borrow but it's pulling me to buy the second book already!!!

- Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince --> Okay. I have a confession. I have six Harry Potter books [bought the first third and the fifth, and the fourth and seventh book were given to me as gifts] but I never even bothered to get the sixth book. So here I am, trying to catch up with my TBR of Harry Potter goodness. I'm currently reading the fourth book [what a loser I am for still not reading all seven boks]. I took up a Harry Potter reading challenge so hopefully I'll get to finish reading all 7 books within this year :) And..... I cheated and got some nice audiobooks of the series too to help me out :P

For Review:
- The Girl Made of Cool by Alan Fox - This is a book composed of a new novel as well as some other stories by the author. It's loooove stories, so is quite good for this love month! Many many many thanks to Alan and his publisher, StoryFocus, for sending this book to me! I can't wait to read it :)

A synopsis of the book from Amazon.com:
Featuring a new novel and two other stories by Alan Fox. ---- Author ALAN FOX writes love stories, filled with a sense of awe and wonder, and set against a brutal world. "THE GIRL MADE OF COOL" is his vibrant new novel and the centerpiece of this collection. Here, Fox tells the story of a young man and woman who are falling in love with each other, but the young woman doesn't know it. She believes that she's falling in love with the man's far more handsome, more perfect friend. ... As the story unfolds and deepens, we see how these two highly talented young men must suffer, struggle, and wage battle to woo this young woman. This, as all the while, she grows into an ever greater beauty, a more charismatic personality, and an all-the-more alluring woman. ... This, as all the while, this young lady grows to become an elegant woman made of shining love and elusive cool. -- Also featured here in this collection, you will find: The Novel "HELL HAS BLUE SKIES" -- A love story about intense relationships in an office, whose unusual line of business is to train people to become 'world-class experts.' And the short story "THE LOVELY LADY AT THE LOVE MUSEUM" -- A colorful tale of romance and high-level maneuvering in the big city. ---- ABOUT THE AUTHOR. Alan Fox writes love stories about people looking for a sense of wonder in a brutal world, people pursuing beauty in the face of insanity. His previous novel, "The Seeker in Forever," is now available in a second revised edition.

Priorities, Priorities.

2010-02-07T06:52:00.000-08:00

Hello! I've been currently out in the blogging world because my real life suddenly caught up with me recently and I have yet to catch up with a whole load of things to do. Month-end just finished at work, so I've got some more spare time, and do not do 10-14hour shifts at the office.

So, what's been keeping me busy from blogging aside from work? Let's see.
1) There's numerous concerts that kept me extremely busy! Jan 27th for Boys Like Girls and February 6th for the Musicfest!
2) Theatre - just seen RENT and it was awesome!
3) I'm planning a new blog to chronicle my fangirly moments. That's to differentiate this blog from the other one. Less cluttered that way.
4) I've just booked another theatre ticket for myself and mum this March and planning THREE trips to travel out for a holiday. Oh.My.Gosh.
5) I am now averaging less than 6hours of sleep everyday. I try to keep up with reading my books, the blogs, and tweets. Oh! Living in the digital age.

So, there. A brief apology and explanation of why I've been out for the past 2 weeks.
I was sooo busy I wasn't able to make my IMM post for 2 weeks too.

Need tips guys. How do you manage to cram all of your interests and necessities [sleep, work, travel time] in 24 hours a day? I wish I could re-enroll in my time management course at work! My to-do list on my organizer is now 2 pages long!!!

Review: Cleopatra's Daughter - Michelle Moran

2010-01-24T23:38:00.000-08:00

Cleopatra VII is one of the most known historical figures of all time. Her love story with Marc Antony, was also considered to be one of the most well-known throughout the world. But what most of us didn't know was that their love had produced three children: Alexander, Cleopatra Selene, and Ptolemy.

The book begins at 31BC, when Octavian defeats Marc Antony's forces at the Battle of Actium. We all know what happens, Marc Antony and Cleopatra commit suicide to avoid being taken as prisoner by Octavian and their three children were taken to Rome by Octavian.

The rest of the novel chronicles the early life of Cleopatra Selene, and is told in her point of view, as she experiences and sees Rome. How Alexandria is so much different to Rome, how she fears for her life, as she awaits Octavian's orders to marry her off to a senator, and basic, everyday life in Rome with her friends.

Thoughts - This novel is well-researched as I read about numerous rituals, gods, and "events" happening in Ancient Rome and Egypt. I am fascinated by how the author fed me these information - it's as if I was living in those times as well. And I would never have known all about those rituals, gods, and events, had it not for me 1) reading the book and 2) researching them as well.
This book also chronicles a glossary at the back, so if you get lost in the wonder that is Ancient Rome and Egypt, head on to the glossary and you'll have something to guide your way. Although not everything is explained or described in the glossary, if you're a curious reader like myself, you'll spend hours traipsing around Wikipedia, searching for the characters, events, and terms!Some of the buildings described in the novel may not be standing anymore [ie the Library of Alexandria], it's definitely fun to imagine them! There's even a map at the front part of the book to let you imagine how Rome looked like way back then. And also plots Europe and the other cities in there. Excellent.

Although the book may become boring at some parts, the mystery of the Red Eagle will be sure to rouse you a bit. But for those of you who are looking for an action-packed novel, well, there's definitely not a lot in this book, so don't expect too much. However, I found myself wondering what would happen next to the characters so I'm guilty of looking through the next few pages [oh all right, even right through to the last chapters], trying to get a sneak peek of what might happen next!

Overall, the book was an honest and pretty accurate description of daily life in Ancient Rome. How much simpler the times were then, and how various forces eventually shaped the characters of Tiberius [who will eventually become the Roman Emperor when Jesus was crucified], Selene, Julia, Marcellus, Juba, and Agrippa. I feel these characters were well-developed and felt very "alive", although Selene's stubbornness has got me annoyed most of the time. But hey, feeling annoyed at a character definitely means the book got to you, right?

The author went all ou to try and give a very visual representation and feeling to the readers that they are indeed in that time, that place. Exquisite attention to the details too! Very informational for readers like me. This book made me want to get on a plane and explore Alexandria and Rome, and see some of the structures that were still standing!

So, on to the rating & information:
Published: 2009
Publisher: Crown
Final Rating: 4.5/5
Read it if: You're looking for something historical to read and want to learn more about Ancient Egypt!

Many, many thanks to Michelle Moran for providing a copy of the book!

In My Mailbox # 10

2010-01-23T00:41:00.000-08:00

I completely spazzed out and realized that the links I'm posting at Kristi's site for 2010 have been wrong!

Anyway, In My Mailbox is a weekly meme hosted by The Story Siren and inspired by Alea of Pop Culture Junkie. It features bought, borrowed, or received books as well as other cool stuff from the mail. Isn't it fun?

For this week:

Received in the mail:

Left - Author swag from a contest I've won at Bitten By Books

Right: "Crossing the Bridge" by Michael Baron [for review]

Hugh Penders has been stuck in neutral for nearly a decade since his brother Chase died in a car accident. He carries with him two secrets that he has never been able to share with anyone: that he believes he might have been able to prevent the accident, and that he was deeply in love with Chase's girlfriend, Iris.

When Hugh's father suffers a debilitating heart attack, Hugh must return to the New England home he's been running away from for the past ten years. One day, he encounters Iris - who has long since moved away - on the street. They begin a friendship and Hugh believes he's falling in love with Iris all over again.

But the ghost of Chase haunts both of them. And when each reveals a truth the other never knew, their lives, their vision of Chase, and their chances for a future together will change forever.

So, that's it for now, until next week. What did you get in your mailboxes this week?

Review: Sherlock Holmes Movie

2010-01-18T06:25:00.000-08:00

Last Saturday, I got a chance to watch Sherlock Holmes at the cinemas!

By golly, I waited for this for a month, given that it was shown elsewhere last 2009, but only got to watch it this 2010! Jeez, what a loser. One part being that from the third week of December 2009 until the second week of January 2010, only local [ie Filipino] movies were being shown from a film festival. Ugh.

Anyway, the plotline is quite simple [and here's me without giving any spoilers]: Holmes was called in to a case wherein he was chasing after Lord Blackwood, stopping a crime involving magic & human sacrifice. He catches Blackwood, he was tried and hanged. But wait! Blackwood rose from the dead! And Holmes was called again to capture Blackwood and find out how he did his death-defying act.

Simple enough, eh?

I wouldn't give away any other parts of the movie because I came in the cinema with absolutely nothing! No spoilers, nothing, and I guess that's what made me enjoy and appreciate the movie more. Although the movie is not based on any of A. Conan Doyle's novel, the story gave it enough justice, staying loyal to the methods of Holmes on how he apprehended the perpetrator, and the steps the perps went through as they were doing their deeds as was described in the novels and short stories. Holmes mastery of disguise was also clearly shown in the movie. Look closer at some of the characters and you'll realize that it's Holmes, playing another part!

Robert Downey Jr as Holmes was awesome. Hands down. No wonder he was nominated [or won?] several awards from his portrayal of Holmes. Jude Law was also great as Watson! I loved their bromance and banter on the screen! Absolutely entertaining!

Loooooved the costumes and setting as well! Costumes were typical of the 19th century. Setting-wise, several London landmarks that we now know and love today were featured! St. Paul's Cathedral, Big Ben & the Houses of Parliament, and Tower Bridge. I loved that they showed the Tower Bridge when it was still under construction at the time. It was the perfect backdrop! One thing that caught my eye as well: Eros at Piccadilly Circus!! It's an amazing contrast to the Piccadilly of now, where there's neon signs in one area! Wheeee!! Okay. I am biased. I loooooove London hence plus points for the movie to be set there! =) The Thames also has a major part in the movie! Watch out for that!

One complaint though: in the movie, Holmes has a tendency to talk very, very quickly! It's quite hard to catch on what he's saying, as his words may sometimes be fuddled with Downey's fake British accent. Then again, that's my only complaint!

The ending is open-ended in such a way that there might be a sequel in the works! Wheeeee!!!! I hope there will be one! I'll keep on googling it!

I'll give this movie a 4.5/5!! Very worth your money!! Go watch it!

In My Mailbox # 9

2010-01-15T21:15:00.000-08:00

In My Mailbox is a weekly meme hosted by The Story Siren and inspired by Alea of Pop Culture Junkie.

It features bought, borrowed, or received books as well as other cool stuff from the mail. Isn't it fun?

So last week, I didn't get to post anything -- blame the busy day job schedule! Since typing this post, I've also received two parcels but I'll feature them for next week's IMM since I don't have time to type this post on a Saturday as well!

I got the following today:

Mail:

An Advanced Review Copy of "Explorer-X Alpha" by LM Preston! This is my first ever ARC so many, many, many thanks LM for sending this book over to me even though I live on the other side of the world! I can't wait to read and review this!

I also got some swag from LM Preston -- a poster and a magnet for Explorer-X Alpha. I also got a bookmark and a magnet featuring LM Preston's new book, "The Pack" which is coming out Fall 2010! Wheee..

Do get a copy of Explorer-X Alpha and add it in your 2010 Debut Authors Reading List! :)

Bought:

And so, here I was at my favourite bookstore and I saw a bargain bin! So, off I was, looking for anything interesting when I saw "The Girl Who Played with Fire" by Stieg Larsson. ON SALE! It's the UK version too, so it's huge and fat and gooorgeous! I got it for around $4.50 [PHP 200] but that means I'll have to get book 1 too! Yaaay

As I said from my previous post, I received two parcels yesterday but don't have time to post them today. As a teaser, it contains a book and some author swag. wheee.

So, what was in your mailbox this week? Care to share?

Book Review: Harry Potter & the Chamber of Secrets

2010-01-15T03:54:00.000-08:00

Harry Potter is back on his second year at Hogwarts! This time, with even more adventures and lessons along the way! This year, strange happenings have been going on at Hogwarts, which all points strangely to the legend of the Chamber of Secrets! Will Harry ever survive the monster hidden within the depths of the chamber?

Thoughts:
My first book for 2010!! What a good read it has been! I didn't imagine I'd finish it this quickly. Anyway, I initially re-read this book as part of the Harry Potter book challenge on at GalleySmith, which I'm doing badly on as I need to finish all 7 books by July 2010. Here's hoping that I get to finish this!

Anyway, back to the review of the second book. It's faster-paced compared to the first book, and this time, the characters are more defined and I get to learn more spells and "wizard terms" so to speak. I got to know some new characters as well, including the mandatory new Defense Against the Dark Arts teacher. I'm learning all about magical enchantments and othe rmagical creatures!

This book definitely did not lack in trying to explain what had happened to Ginny and Tom Riddle. Although the book did not necessarily build Ginny's character at all, it helped build more stronger relationships and character backgrounds for Ron, Harry and Hermione. This book also provides a stepping stone to the other Harry Potter books, which I spent time trying to figure out and remembering who played a part in what on the latter parts of the books.

Quite a quick read, so definitely good to start my new year, it's definitely a boost to the stats! It's also written in such a way that anyone could understand it: young adults, and adults alike! I like!

Overall, I'll give it a 4/5 rating! I know most of you guys have either already read the books or seen the movie so go watch or read them again :) Harry definitely is part of our pop culture now and is here to stay!

Ruby & Yam's Amazon Wishlist

2010-01-14T17:57:00.000-08:00

Below is Ruby & Yam's Amazon wishlist. I recently got a $25 gift certificate from Amazon and I'm stoked to buy stuff online that's not available in my country! =)

But first off, HUGE apologies for not updating my blog. My day job work has been so stressful this past two weeks, only posts I've scheduled for the first week of January have been posted in my blog. Whenever I get home, I just want to sleep and/or check my personal email or just relax. *sigh* year-end blues! I need a holiday, quick!

Regular blog updates would happen starting today [until the next month-end comes] eeeeep!

See ya!

Review: The Young Victoria Movie

2010-01-08T00:24:00.000-08:00

The Young Victoria is a British movie that chronicles the early life of Victoria as she ascended to the throne of England. It shows how she was very protected as a child, not being able to interact with any other children, would need to hold someone's hand as she was walking down the stairs, and had to share a bedroom with her mother. The movie also chronicles how Victoria and Albert had met, and how their love story had blossomed.

This movie was such a blast for me to watch! I love all things England, so was thrilled when I saw that it was showing on a limited engagement at the local cinemas. For starters, I don't really know much about Albert & Victoria, much less gone to most of the famous landmarks that were left in their honor in London, so I came to watch this movie with an open book, willing to learn and understand more about them. Now, that's a disadvantage to me because I don't know which parts are historically correct and which parts were just exaggerated for the cinematography.

The setting, costumes, and actors were very brilliant. The Buckingham Palace and Kensington Palace scenes were believable, as were the period costumes at the time. The actors also showed the youth of both Prince Albert and Queen Victoria, as I tihnk most of us only know them as part of history now, and don't give them much thought. Emily Blunt as Queen Victoria? Absolutely AMAZING! Rupert Friend as Prince Albert? HOT! And very, very, very believable! Their chemistry on screen was sizzling! And in some scenes, they managed to make me cry. And bawl. Like a baby. Yes. It's that good.

My biggest surprise in the movie was that Queen Victoria proved to be quite a looker when she was younger! I googled her paintings when she was younger and she wasn't the grieving, rotund widow that is usually portrayed of her. And Prince Albert! Oh my gosh. He was a stunner!! Look through Wikipedia and you'll see how he was when he was younger!

Go and watch this movie, if its showing in your area! I think its in limited engagement only but it's definitely a must-see

2010 Debut Author Challenge

2010-01-07T21:30:00.000-08:00

Just when I thought I'm done joining book challenges, I found some more in the internet!

This challenge is hosted by The Story Siren and challenges peeps to read at least 12 books from 2010 Debut Authors!

I already have one book with me, so it's quite exciting! Look into my review posts over the year to find out more about new authors and their awesome books!

Go and join as well if you wish :)

Books On The Spotlight # 2

2010-01-04T05:42:00.000-08:00

Books on the Spotlight is a monthly event I'm doing to highlight books that I've been reading and would feature reviews in the next few weeks.

For January 2010, the books I hope to complete and post reviews of are as follows:
*all images searched from google images; product descriptions from Amazon.com*

Extravagance - Gary Krist.

William Tobias Merrick, an energetic young man from the provinces, travels to the big city in a time of great optimism and ferment, hoping to make his mark on a frenzied, money-crazed society obsessed with the promise of new technologies.

The city in question is London in the 1690s; but it is also New York in the 1990s. The new technologies are diving bells, pneumatic winches, and "sucking-worm" drainage engines; but they are also wireless telecommunication devices, patented biotechnology processes, and revolutionary electronic Internet routers. Only the sense of unlimited possibility remains the same throughout.

Unfolding simultaneously in two distant--but remarkably similar--periods of history, Extravagance is a comic, pictaresque novel of financial mania, the story of a world gripped by a terminal case of irrational exuberance. Navigating the perils of both eras is a single cast of characters: Will himself, a young man on the make, eager to do whatever it takes to make his fortune; Will's uncle (and sponsor) Gilbert Hawking, a shrewd businessman with one foot in the Old Economy and one in the New; Benjamin Fletcher, the developer of a pioneering new technology destined to set the world on fire; and Theodore Witherspoon, the cheerfully unscrupulous wizard of the financial markets who promises to make them all wealthy beyond their dreams.

Meanwhile, Will's aspirations are complicated by his pursuit of Ben Fletcher's sister, Eliza, the gorgeous and disconcertingly aggressive woman who is as desirable as she is elusive. Can Will succeed in his efforts to win both Eliza and the fortune that her brother's new technology seems likely to bring him? And can he make it all happen before the general euphoria of the age reaches its inevitable climax?

Extravagance is a uniquely conceived work of high comic entertainment -- an ultra-smart time machine of a novel that proves that both love and greed are timeless.

Harry Potter & the Chamber of Secrets

The Dursleys were so mean and hideous that summer that all Harry Potter wanted was to get back to the Hogwarts School for Witchcraft and Wizardry. But just as he's packing his bags, Harry receives a warning from a strange, impish creature named Dobby who says that if Harry Potter returns to Hogwarts, disaster will strike.

And strike is does. For in Harry's second year at Hogwarts, fresh torments and horrors arise, including an outrageous stuck-up new professor, Gilderoy Lockheart, a spirit named Moaning Myrtle who haunts the girls' bathroom, and the unwanted attentions of Ron Weasley's younger sister, Ginny.

But each of these seem minor annoyances when the real trouble begins, and someone--or something--starts turning Hogwarts students to stone. Could it be Draco Malfoy, a more poisonous rival than ever? Could it possibly be Hagrid, whose mysterious past is finally told? Or could it be the one everyone at Hogwarts most suspects...Harry Potter himself?

New Year Readathon Updates

2010-01-03T07:26:00.000-08:00

I think it's better to post one collective post rather than many so below is my update for the New Year Readathon hosted by Bookworming in the 21st Century

Day Three: JANUARY 3, 2010:

- Proved to be a very, very bad reader. I watched Merlin again in the evening! Will do a bit of reading as well but maybe when I go to bed later. Was sick for the afternoon so I did a lot of resting + sleeping before going to work tomorrow. I suck. Lol. I suck on reading under pressure! =p

How did you guys do on this readathon?

Day Two: JANUARY 2, 2010:

- Read Extravagance - Gary Kirst - 8 pages total

- Read Harry Potter & the Chamber of Secrets - 20 pages total.

- Watched a LOT of tv episodes & also The Young Victoria! lol. I love the holidays! I can't stop watching the telly!

Day One: JANUARY 1, 2010:

- Read a total of 8 pages of Ribblestrop - Andy Mulligan

- That's all I read! lol. I spent most of the time catching up on sleep and hanging out with my family!

In My Mailbox # 8

2010-01-02T06:03:00.000-08:00

In My Mailbox is a weekly meme hosted by The Story Siren and inspired by Alea of Pop Culture Junkie.
It features bought, borrowed, or received books as well as other cool stuff from the mail. Isn't it fun?

So, I thought for this week, I would have a very disappointing NOTHING as a post since the post office was only open last Dec 28th and 29th. And I was doing my best to practice a no book-buying ban until I went to the bookstore today and saw a table of marked down books.

And so, I went home with the below books:

Suite Francaise - Irene Nemirovsky
The Cuckoo in the Clock & Other Stories - Enid Blyton

The Cuckoo in the Clock was immediately borrowed by my colleague at work so I told her to take good care of it! lol.

What's in your mailbox this week?

My 2010 Goals

2009-12-31T15:32:00.000-08:00

It's the New Year! It's a new decade! It's 2010!

Might as well have my first post of 2010 as a reminder to myself of my goals for this year.

To be honest, I'm very, very excited whenever there's a new year. There's 365 days of the unknown... new lessons, opportunities, and experiences! Woot Woot! A chance to grow!

Anyhow, my goals:

1. Blog more. I'll be a better blogger this year compared to the past years I've had this blog up. I was a firm believer of notebooks before. I still am now, but I realized that my readers are very limited if I just keep them in a notebook. At least now I've got readers out there in the world who could share my views [I hope].

2. Read and review more. Oh yes. That was one of my goals for 2009. [which I didn't post online, see goal #1] I am starting 2010 with three books that I'm ready to review sometime in January. My initial goal for 2010 is to read 24 books. 2 per month. Kind of like 2009. Hopefully I could surpass that.

3. Travel more. See new places, experience different cultures. That would be one awesome thing to do. I already booked a ticket to Macau in July 2010. I wonder what other adventures await me this year?

4. Try to avail of my vices at a discount. Books, travel and shopping are my vices.

- Clothes/shoes --> only shop at the local Chinatown where there's lots of cheap clothes but are of good quality. For those high street brands, I would only get them on sale. Yes. No more paying full price.

- Books --> Sometimes the local bookstore has a table full of bargain books. Then there's the month-long sale where books could be availed of at a 20-80% off discount [usually around August-September]. I will hold off on buying books that are sold full price. If I really need to read something then there's the TBR or the handy dandy used bookstore. Or I could always swap books on BookMooch or Rosie, my new book buddy who also used to be my officemate!

- Travel --> I would avail of the crazy fares that the local budget airline is holding, and if there's no crazy fare sale anymore [ie P1.00 for a seat. That's cheap!], I would settle for a sale. Any sale, as long as I've got the funds and I'm free. "Have time and money, will book and travel. "

5. Spend more time with mummy and Goofybear the dog. I love those two. I'm planning on getting my mum to at least one new foreign country a year. In 2009, we went to Hong Kong. In 2010, hopefully somewhere else. She wants to go to Australia, but I don't think I've got the funds for that yet.

6. Save more. I need my nest egg to grow so I could have a happy retirement in 30+ years time. And well, those savings from goal #4 could come in handy for emergency or my travel vice!

7. Watch more theatre/musicals. They make me more cultured. :)

8. Watch more concerts. If they're free. =p

9. Go to more events. Book signings, parties, etc.

10. Make every moment count: read whilst stuck in traffic or in the bathroom, if its the evening, listen to an audiobook. Anything that would keep me preoccupied and just not bored. I will try to make every second count because I won't get that second back anymore.

And that's about my 2010 goals for now. Care to share yours?

The Last Day of 2009.

2009-12-31T00:57:00.000-08:00

Wow. What a year 2009 has been. There has been too much loss of talent, a lot of misery in this year, as compared to what my 2008 has been. But nevertheless, I don't want to dwell on the negative parts, I'll just go through to the positive ones on this wrap-up post.

TRAVEL:
The year 2009 was the year I loved to travel. My eyes were literally opened in 2008 and in 2009, I realized that there are much more opportunities out there. The world is literally HUGE and I want to discovery every nook and cranny of it whenever I can.

I travelled to:
- Hong Kong
- Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
- Davao City, Philippines.
- trekked up Mt Pinatubo, Philippines
- and as usual, went up to Tagaytay, Philippines twice this year as its only around 2 hours away from my place.

More about my 2010 plans in the first post of 2010.

2009 was also the year I discovered that time is SHORT. Your seconds could not be given back to you if you've spent it, so make every moment count. There's no time to lose!!

BOOKS/READING:
So, I went back to reading. I was a prodigal daughter and would only read 1-2 books between 2002-2008. I was that lazy, and giving myself a whole lot of crappy excuses on why I would not read.
But with my new prospect in life that it's short and even time spent on traffic should be utilized, I went back to reading. And I realized... I loved it! I love being transported back into a new world, where my imagination would be working on overtime, and... learning new words and places as well.

To date, my list of places to go to has broadened because of reading.... my TBR pile has been growing, and I've gotten in touch with lots of book bloggers out there. I've learned more about new authors, and not just the mainstream ones. I've learned how to voice out my thoughts in the world more effectively through this blog, and well, I think I'm making my mark as well. Bit by bit.

I've finished 24 books this year. That's an average of 2 per month. Not bad compared to my previous stat of 1-2 per year. I am working on my reading. I'm constantly finding more time to read, to peruse the bookstores, to put into context what I'm reading and put lessons learned in my brain, things that I could use as I go about living my life. It's fun. It's lovely. It's brilliant.

Books finished this year [partial list]:
http://rubylovesadventure.blogspot.com/2009/01/2009-book-quantity-challenge.html

I've also taken reading to a different level. And what do I mean a different level?

Well, I joined the Fully Booked Book Geek - Dan Brown edition. To which I placed second [it was a tie for second!] but I didn't get to win the bacon. I totally spazzed [sp?] out on the last two challenge questions even though I bloody knew them! Anyway, kudos to the winner but I got a free book for joining the challenge in return.

I've also joined Dewey's 24-hour Readathon. It was my first time to join such an event, and it was fun reading and interacting with fellow readathoners and bloggers! I didn't watch any telly shows for a full day and instead concentrated on books! How cool was that?

I joined a book club. It's called Flips Flipping Pages and I've joined in two sessions. Quite nice fun!

I went to an author signing. It's the first time I've ever met an author up-close and got my booked signed. It was such a high, sort of meeting a celebrity but a much more down-to-earth celebrity!

CONCERTS:
2009 was also the year where I learned that some of the best things in life are free. I got to go to different events and concerts for free. But then, I wouldn't normally just ask for free stuff. They just fall whenever they are and I wouldn't bother anyone to get free stuff. They're a perk, not a necessity. I'm happy that my friends think of me whenever they get extra concert tickets... and I'm lucky enough that I have friends that are willing to share with me their experiences as we watch these bands/artists.

Concerts I've been to:
- Fall Out Boy [Feb 2009]
- Secondhand Serenade [March 2009]
- Red Jumpsuit Apparatus [March 2009]
- The Saturdays [August 2009]
- Akon [forgot when]
- Raygun [November 2009]
- Katy Perry [November 2009]
- Lenka [December 2009]

TELLY/MOVIES:
I've watched a whole lot more telly shows and movies this year. I watched the following:
- True Blood Season 2
- The Tudors Season 3 [ULTIMATE FAVE -- this explained my love for historical fiction]
- Secret Diary of a Call Girl [LOVED this as well... bought the books too]
- Merlin [LOOOOOVE this too]
- Gossip Girl Season 2
- Bones Season 1-4
- Criminal Minds season 3-4
- The Vampire Diaries
- The Beautiful Life [or two episodes of it]
- Lipstick Jungle

Is it just me or do the British telly shows do so much better on my taste rather than the American ones?

I loved Hugh Dancy as well in Confessions of a Shopaholic. I will always be a fan. And watched a whole load of movies as well, that I would not enumerate in this post.

Overall, 2009 was good, but not great. I am hoping 2010 will be better so watch out for my opening post/the goal list on January 1st.

Have a nice New Year's ahead! Here's to all of us looking forward to a bigger, better year/decade!

Blog Direction for 2010!

2009-12-27T21:23:00.000-08:00

It's nearly the New Year and since I'm spending much more time online and blogging, I might as well post on a goal or where my blog would be headed for this 2010.

Currently, I blog mostly about books, theatre, travel and concerts. It will still remain the same for 2010, although more focus will be given on books: it's the cheapest and most accessible form of entertainment for me!

There will still be the weekly memes: I will be participating on In My Mailbox posts as well as Waiting On Wednesday/On My Wishlist as well.

Reviews will be posted whenever I've finished a new book. I cannot entirely say what specific day I'll post a book review but it will happen. With my current schedule, I normally finish an average of two to four books per month, much faster than my early 2009 figures.

Books reviewed would be composed of:
80% old releases;
20% new releases [books released within 2008-2010]

The reason why there are more old releases being reviewed is because those are the normal type of books I normally get. Most of my books are acquired through bookmooch, book swaps or the used bookstore. I know that if I don't buy a book new, the publisher and the author would not get royalties from the book but I can't always buy a new book now, considering I now have other obligations where most of the paycheck goes to.

However, there are certain times in a year when the local bookstore here hosts a 20% off sale and when that time comes, I shall go around buying new books that are on my wishlist!
That's where the 20% new releases come from.

I also set-up my own Amazon A-store so if a particular book suits your fancy then feel free to buy from my Amazon store :)

I hope most of you understand where I'm coming from. Here's hoping for a more fruitful 2010 to everyone! :)

In My Mailbox # 7

2009-12-27T03:09:00.000-08:00

In My Mailbox is a weekly meme hosted by The Story Siren
It features bought, borrowed, or received books as well as other cool stuff from the mail. Isn't it fun?

In this week, I didn't get any books! But I did get the following:

A journal from my Secret Santa at the office. I asked for a gift certificate but got an expensive journal instead. Thank you :)

I also got a goodie bag full of Johnsons Baby Lotion samples! Wheeee!! They smell soo good!

So, what did you get in your mailbox this week? Hopefully I get a few books here and there before the New Year -- the post office has been closed for the past few days!
:) Till next week!

Review: The Sisterhood of the Travelling Pants - Ann Brashares

2009-12-26T00:29:00.000-08:00

In the first installment of Ann Brashares novel of the Travelling Pants, four girls: Tibby, Lena, Bridget and Carmen, find a pair of pants that miraculously fit all of them. They believe that this magical pair of pants is enough to bring their friendship together even though they spend their first summer apart, and the pants were capable of bringing good luck and new experiences to these four friends.

This young adult book has got me interested in it when I first saw the movie. It was a story of growing up, and realizing that everything is changing around you and you just have to cope up with it. The story is told in a third person point of view and alternates between what's heppening to the four characters as they deal with problems and their new experiences. There's also quotations that separate a new chapter from each other, quite a good presentation to ensure that the readers would find something inspirational as well.

The book is a quick read, and as I have the mass market paperback version, the font size is quite big, with some large spacings between the sentences as well. I love Brashares poignant writing and the various real-life scenarios that each character has to go to. It makes the characters more real and can definitely influence younger adults as they read the book into making the right choices, stepping up to challenges, and being more mature.

Although there were obviously parts that got me bored and irritated [if you guys intend to read the book, you be the judge], and there are also some parts where it was obviously dragging a bit and you find yourself saying "Ugh. When will this annoying bit end?" This book is surely something you'll want to read over the summer or recommend teens as they go through real life.

I recommend this for:
Young adults or even adults who are facing tough times in their life [read Tibby's point of view with Bailey]
Someone who just wants a quick read
Someone who wants to read something about friendship.

Rating: 3.5/5

Copy: Mass Market Paperback.
Source: Bought from a used bookstore.

Happy Holidays!!!

2009-12-24T00:29:00.000-08:00

Hiya guys! Just wanted to wish you all a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!

I will be on vacation until the 29th but there would still be posts up in my blog as I'm trying to type up some reviews and scheduling them at the moment!

Have fun! :)

On My Wishlist #4

2009-12-22T06:12:00.000-08:00

On My Wishlist is a weekly meme hosted by Book Chick City, which will be posted every Wednesday. It allows us to share the books we haven't bought yet but are waiting to be bought and devoured.

I would normally post one book per week as there are loads and loads and loads of books in cyberspace and if I list more than one, I might get a headache!

This week, on my wishlist is Fallen by Lauren Kate. I saw this book at the local bookstore this week and I sooo want it! But again, it's in hardcover so it's quite a bit expensive as well!

Doesn't the cover look preettyy?? It's one of those books that are very highly buzzed about in the blogosphere this 2009 and I'm sure it will take off in 2010 as well. Aren't fallen angels all the buzz now?

Quickie Update

2009-12-21T23:21:00.000-08:00

Guys, I am so sorry for not updating my blog for the past few days!

Work has been so hectic [long story] -- friends, I'll tell them to you the next time we chat or meet up. And to cut it short, we are going on LOOOONG Overtime hours for the past 7 weekdays and it is NOT fun, especially with Christmas around the corner.

Books that I should've finished reading a week ago are still unfinished at the moment, gah! And of course, I haven't prepared reviews or uploads for the stuff I've done for the past few days.

Bear with me and hopefully all this work crap should be done by Christmas Eve. So I could FINALLY enjoy my Christmas holiday!

And yahoo.... Bank Holiday on the 28th so no work! More sleep, telly shows & movies to watch, and also books to read!

Until the next update. Here's hoping you guys have a Happy Christmas!

Review: Take That Present: The Circus Live DVD

2009-12-20T23:17:00.000-08:00

For those of you who read my blog before or know me personally, it is no secret that I LOVE boybands. One of my top two favourite bands is Take That! [I said top two because they're tied with Boyzone!]

Anyhow, since the DVD is not currently available in my country here in the far east, I downloaded a copy of this before I get a physical copy. [although I've no idea when I'll get my physical copy of this]

Let me just rate it outright: it deserves a 10 out of 5. Yes. It's that good! It's double than what I had expected!

Let me warn you first..... the below contains SPOILERS!

The theatrical quality of their show brought me to tears in the first part, the circus performers, the wonderful costumes of all the performers [and the boys], the elephant during "The Garden" [my favourite part so far], the rain effects during "Back For Good", the fireworks at the end, the band performing their songs whilst playing instruments during "Up All Night", "Wooden Boat", "How Did It Come to This", the guys in unicycles, painting their faces like mimes during "What Is Love", them singing my second favourite song "Said It All" [although a bit disappointed they didn't sing my ultimate fave TT song, "Reach Out". Another favourite part? "Hello!" Cute cute cute song! And also for "Hold Up A Light"

If you're a fan of the band [like me!], you must definitely get a copy of this DVD!! I was soooo gutted I wasn't able to see them live during this performance [and well, EVER], but with this DVD as well as the previous ones [Beautiful World Live and the Ultimate Tour], I'm able to catch a glimpse of how the band treats their shows. Go buy it and then watch it! :)

Okay, I'm sounding like a complete fangirl in here but I am a fangirl! Lol.

Buy the DVD and CD here:

In My Mailbox # 6

2009-12-18T19:25:00.000-08:00

In My Mailbox is a weekly meme hosted by The Story Siren
It features bought, borrowed, or received books from the mail. Isn't it fun?

This week, I bought "Dragon Rider" by Cornelia Funke from a used bookstore in SM Mall of Asia.

It's hardbound and is in a very good condition. It set me back P170 [around $4]. It was pretty pricey for me, considering it was a used book but it was hardbound and there were cute illustrations, I can't say no!

I also found some World War I and World War II related books at that bookstore which costs around $4 as well. Buuuut I don't have the money anymore so I've kissed it goodbye and pray I'll see those books once again at a cheaper price and at a brach near my place!

What was in your mailbox this week?

Review: Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban [Book] - JK Rowling

2009-12-16T21:05:00.000-08:00

This third book has been my favourite in all the Harry Potter books so far! Although the movie version of this was the least of my favourites in the franchise!

Anyway, in this book, a dangerous murderer has escaped from the prison of Azkaban, Sirius Black. It was known amongst the wizards that he might be after Harry, and was a servant of Lord Voldemort. Harry, Ron and Hermione are then thrust in a new adventure where they'll be faced with time turners, new magical creatures, dementors, harder magical spells, all in their third year of Hogwarts!

I love that in this book, there is no appearance whatsoever of Voldemort! That means no intense fight scenes or whatnot between Harry and Voldemort but then again, I loooove the new characters and the depth they bring to Harry's past. I also love how everything intertwines and interconnects with each other. It's hard to post my exact thoughts/feelings without spoilers but one of them would be how to use a time turner -- excellent, excellent stuff!

My favourite character in this is Beaky, the Hippogriff! He's like a little dog of Hagrid [and we all know that Hagrid loves them weird and magical creatures] Fine. I think you're saying that Beaky is not that much of a character but my second favourite would be Sirius Black! Imagine all that we went through just to see Harry again. Awwww..... and it's amazing how he...... [SPOILER] could turn into a huge dog [END spoiler]

Looooove the part of the Patronus Spell as well to ward off the dementors!

And Malfoy was being a pest as per usual to Harry.

This is a very entertaining read, so I must wrap up this post before I give out any more spoilers.

5/5 rating for me!

Copy: Trade Paperback, bought by me from National Bookstore.
Date Published: 2001
Publisher: Scholastic Paperbacks

On My Wishlist # 3

2009-12-15T23:26:00.000-08:00

On My Wishlist is a weekly meme hosted by Book Chick City, which will be posted every Wednesday. It allows us to share the books we haven't bought yet but are waiting to be bought and devoured.

I would normally post one book per week as there are loads and loads and loads of books in cyberspace and if I list more than one, I might get a headache! lol.

For this week, I have two books! Hah! They're mostly British books and I think are only available in bookstores in the UK, so bear with me :P I'm not sure when I could buy these books online or physically [living in the far east sucks sometimes. If I have these books shipped, it'll cost me a LOT in shipping + in customs taxes :S ]

Take One 1990-1996 by Take That.

I love, love, love this boyband!! My love affair with this band reignited when I was back in the UK last year! Too bad I wasn't able to go back this year, but maybe in the next few years I could see them tour!

Product description from Amazon.co.uk:
The pop phenomenon that is Take That was formed in Manchester in 1990. Throughout the first half of the '90s the band sold an unbelievable 60 million records, resulting in two of the best-selling albums of the decade: Everything Changes (which was nominated for the 1994 Mercury Prize) and Greatest Hits in 1996. Their rise to the top was well-documented in the media but in Take One they tell, for the first time, their version of this incredible story of superstardom. Take One gains you exclusive insight into life on tour during those early years, with over 150 never-before-seen photographs. Glimpse at the world inside their hotel rooms, go backstage during their amazing stage shows around the globe, and see from their unique perspective the ever-present, overwhelmingly loyal fans that followed them everywhere – perhaps you'll recognise yourself... To accompany these exceptional unseen images, a narrative, written by the boys runs throughout, candidly and humorously documenting the highs and lows, the frenzy and hysteria – and the often surreal moments – of the meteoric rise of the world's greatest boy band.

And... the sequel book, which I absolutely have to get as well:

Take Two: 2005-2009 by Take That

Product Description from Amazon.co.uk:
When Gary Barlow, Howard Donald, Jason Orange and Mark Owen released 'Patience' on November 20, 2006, over a decade since Take That split up, the world welcomed them back with open arms to their rightful position at the top of the charts. Their return to glory has become one of the most exciting stories in British pop music and in Take Two they tell the amazing story of their comeback for the first time. With over 150 exclusive and personal images, and accompanied by humorous and revealing commentary written by the boys, relive first-hand the exceptional, and often heart-warming, experiences that make up the second part of the Take That story.

They are making me drool already. Both of them costs around 20+ pounds already! eeeek!! I really have to save up for these then!

I hope some of my friends who get sent in the UK read this post so they'll know what to get me when they go back home! lol.

What's on your wishlist today? :)

Review: Sweeney Todd, The Musical

2009-12-14T23:53:00.000-08:00

Last December 6th, I was lucky enough to get second row orchestra side seats to Repertory's rendition of Sweeney Todd.

Starring Audie Gemora as Sweeney Todd/Benjamin Barker and Menchu Lauchenco-Yulo as Mrs. Lovett, the musical is about a British urban legend where a demon barber from Fleet Street goes around, seeking revenge, slashing the necks of his customers, and in turn, their bodies are being used as uh... filling for Mrs. Lovett's Pies.

Everyone pretty much knows the story of Sweeney Todd, right? Then I'd better not dwell much on the story and on to the review. First off, the music -- I love, love, love it! I first saw the musical via the film adaptation starring Johnny Depp and Helena Bonham-Carter [which I dubbed "Sweeney Todd - The Harry Potter version, since the cast members playing Bellatrix, Peter Pettigrew & Severus Snape were in the movie] and I loooooooved it. My mom, on the other hand, thought that it was too gory so she stepped out of the room while I was watching it on HBO.

In this Repertory version, Audie Gemora played a wonderful Sweeney Todd. He had all the facial expressions of boredom and "I could not be bothered" looks to Mrs. Lovett while she is busy trying to profess her love for him! LOL! Menchu Lauchenco-Yulo was also brilliant, but of course, not as brilliant as Audie Gemora. The rest of the characters [Franco Laurel as Anthony and Lena McKenzie as Joanna] were also quite good.

The set was awesome. My favourite part was the steaming oven! Awesome, awesome! Plus the trapdoor where the dead people fall into from the barber's chair was nice! Lighting = superb! Sound = superb as well!

Soundtrack = ahhh... my favourite part! It's been a week since I've seen the play and the lines "I feel you Joanna....." are still stuck in my head.

If I had to choose which one's better between the movie & the local production, then I'd say the local production! Well, nothing beats the real deal, doesn't it? Of course, there's always the movie to fall back on everytime I need a dose of the musical [and Johnny Depp hotness amidst all that makeup too].

Quite a shame the run ended last Sunday [December 13th]. However, if it would be shown again on additional runs [I dunno when though], do watch it! :)

For next year, I am looking forward to the following repertory productions:

Romeo & Bernadette [February 2010 -- same month as I'm going to watch the local adaptation of RENT!]

Little Women [November/December 2010 -- their big musical and directed by Menchu Lauchenco-Yulo!]

Till then! :D

** all photos from Broadway World - Philippines **

In My Mailbox # 5

2009-12-11T18:33:00.000-08:00

For this week, I didn't buy any books! Yay for my wallet! :) I can't say it will stay the same for next week though :P

But I did get the below in the mail -- they're Mythical Creatures Stamps that I've won from Dewey's 24 Hour Readathon last October :) Aren't they pretttyy??? :) I think they're only available in the UK and are mint condition!

What did you get in your mailbox this week? :)

On My Wishlist [the DVD edition] # 1

2009-12-11T00:56:00.000-08:00

It's not part of the On My Wishlist posts I do every week but since I need a complete DVD list to look after when I go to the UK [someday, hopefully]

Boyzone: Dublin... Live by Request

-- I had a video CD of this a few years back but now I want a DVD to add to my collection! *sigh*

Product Description from Amazon.com

The boyz perform hits from BY REQUEST live in their home town of Dublin. Songs include: "Going Gets Tough," "One Kiss," "All That I Need," "Love Me for a Reason," "Different Beat," "Words," and more.

The next DVD on the list is a three-disc one:

Boyzone Live and Behind the Scenes.

It contains the DVDs for: Said and Done, Live at the Point and Live at Wembley.

I saw this at HMV when I was in London and it was worth 35 pounds! Eeek! Quite expensive. I didn't get a chance to go back to the store but if I could, I would and I'll get this!! :)

So, that's it for now, will post another batch of my wishlist of DVDs some other time :D

On My Wishlist # 2

2009-12-08T23:25:00.000-08:00

This book is reviewed by a lot of book bloggers out there now who say it was a really good book!

My friend and I were just in a bookstore after watching Spring Awakening when we saw this in the shelf. It was in hardcover and the font was in blue ink! Awesome!

I didn't read the back part of the book at the time because the price of the book turned me off a bit [we all know that hard covers are more expensive than trade paperbacks or mass market paperbacks] but now I would really like to get a copy of this too [though I'll probably wait until it's in the used bookstore or in paperback form]

Product Description from Amazon.com:
For years, Grace has watched the wolves in the woods behind her house. One yellow-eyed wolf--her wolf--is a chilling presence she can't seem to live without. Meanwhile, Sam has lived two lives: In winter, the frozen woods, the protection of the pack, and the silent company of a fearless girl. In summer, a few precious months of being human . . . until the cold makes him shift back again.

Apocalypse: The Second World War

2009-12-07T20:04:00.000-08:00

Last night, I hurried on home to try and watch at least parts of the six-hour marathon of Apocalypse: the Second World Wary by National Geographic to commemorate Pearl Harbour.

I managed to watch episodes 3-6 last night and let me tell you, it blew my head away!

Filled with clips from collectors and other various sources, it is the definitive documentary that gives you an insight peek on what really happened during World War II.

I love, love, love, love, loved this documentary! If there's a DVD out I would definitely get it. Not only did I learn a lot about this historic event that changed peoples lives, I also gained an insight on how and why this war had happened and how it became a world war.

Now I'm not sure if this series will be airing sometime soon [believe me, I've just checked tonight's and tomorrow's programme listing on National Geographic], please do look out for it in National Geographic! It's the channel's highest rating documentary ever [and believe me, it totally deserves all the top ratings].

Now I don't have my own war story to tell, but my mom tells me that her brother died during the war. He was sick at the time and since going out of hiding during the war is out of the question, he passed away. :(
Another story was about the LaSallian brothers that were killed in the chapel in the university grounds when the Japanese trooped in to the school.
Trivia: Manila, Philippines was the second most affected/destroyed city during the war after Warsaw, Poland.
So, if you want to learn more trivia, do watch this series!

I vow to read more about World War II and find out what was in the mind of the leaders that were involved at the time, of course I'll TRY not to be unbiased and read more about both parties: the Allies and the Axis.

Any suggestions on books, both historical fiction based during the time and also non-fiction books? Would really appreciate it if you could comment below with your suggestions and I'll see if those books are available in the bargain bins or in local bookstores here in my country.

2010 Audiobook Reading Challenge

2009-12-06T22:16:00.000-08:00

And so another challenge I've signed up for! This time, it's for an audiobook challenge :)

This one also runs from January 1 -December 31, 2010! And since I do "read" audiobooks, this one should be a breeze!

My goal is to reach at least the Curious or the Fascinated level:

-- Curious – Listen to 3 Audio Books.

-- Fascinated – Listen to 6 Audio Books.

Watch out for this space as I place the list of books I've read relating to this challenge :)

2010 Historical Fiction reading challenge

2009-12-06T21:36:00.000-08:00

The 2010 Historical Fiction reading challenge is hosted by http://theroyalreviews.blogspot.com/

Now, seeing that I've signed up for a bazillion other reading challenges before and never really seemed to finish one yet, I thought I'd give this a try as some of my other TBR books are historical fiction! Plus, I seem to have a knack of reading them as it gives me a glimpse of history :) Also, it'll be nice to interact with other bloggers who are joining this challenge!

Since I am a slow reader, I am gunning for the Curious level -- read three books.

Challenge will run from January 1, 2010 until December 31, 2010.

I could probably do this in conjunction with the other challenges :) That's it for now!

December 2009 24-hour readathon

2009-12-06T06:24:00.000-08:00

So I've joined in another 24 hour readathon on www.dreadlockgirl.com. It was slated from December 5th, 7pm [Manila time] to December 6th [Manila time]

Unfortunately my internet was acting up yesterday evening so I wasn't able to update at around 9pm Manila time and only got online today.

I love readathons, they give me a chance to cut down some of my Mt TBR list and interact with fellow bloggers out there :)

Unfortunately, with this December 5th readathon, I only found out a few hours before, and my weekend plans have been taken! I've been to watch New Moon at the movie theatre and a bit of shopping on the 5th and watch a local musical production of Sweeney Todd on the 6th.

In the past Dewey readathon last October, I managed to save at least an entire day for the readathon.

Sad to say, my stats for this readathon were dismal. Finished around 10 pages in total inthe books I'm reading *blushes*. I didn't stay up late to read any books, but got tempted and saw three episodes of Gossip Girl season 2, slept, and went to the shows I've mentioned above.

Not that I mind reading, but I've just had a very busy month-end at work so I took a very easy weekend off.

For those of you who entered this readathon, how was it for you? Was it more successful and productive compared to me? :P

In My Mailbox # 4

2009-12-04T22:25:00.000-08:00

In this week's mailbox, I didn't buy any books [brand new or used]! Instead, I got the following as parcels from contests I've won from Cherry Mischievous and Bitten By Books! =)

From Cherry Mischievous:
"The Magicians" by Lev Grossman and a bunch of swag [postcards of "The Cracked Throne" by Joshua Palmatier, and a postcard from Cherry too]. This looks like a really awesome book! I can't wait to read it, although I'll have to find more reading time first!

"The Magicians" Synopsis from Amazon.com

Quentin Coldwater is brilliant but miserable. A senior in high school, he’s still secretly preoccupied with a series of fantasy novels he read as a child, set in a magical land called Fillory. Imagine his surprise when he finds himself unexpectedly admitted to a very secret, very exclusive college of magic in upstate New York, where he receives a thorough and rigorous education in the craft of modern sorcery.
He also discovers all the other things people learn in college: friendship, love, sex, booze, and boredom. Something is missing, though. Magic doesn’t bring Quentin the happiness and adventure he dreamed it would. After graduation he and his friends make a stunning discovery: Fillory is real. But the land of Quentin’s fantasies turns out to be much darker and more dangerous than he could have imagined. His childhood dream becomes a nightmare with a shocking truth at its heart.

The other book is MaryJanice Davidson's "Drop Dead Gorgeous" from Bitten By Books

It's a chick lit book, I think? Another genre I so adore! I have one of her Queen Betsey vampire series in my TBR too!

Product Description from Amazon.com
Ah, weddings - every single woman's reminder that she'll probably die alone, covered in cat hair and dressed in unflattering sweatpants. And as far as bad wedding experiences go, my friend Stacy's could take the cake - I'm dateless, I'm a bridesmaid, and someone just attempted to whack the groom (known, no kidding, as The Boss) in the middle of the ceremony. Whoa...hang on. I might not relish reception food or doing the Electric Slide, but anyone who tries to ruin a girlfriend's big day by bumping off her true love will have to go through me first. So now I, assistant hairdresser Jenny Branch, am helping to hunt down a real-life bad guy, and the prime suspect is Kevin Stone, who claims to be working undercover for a group called Covert Ops Protection. All of this is hard to believe - my new role as spy-in-training, the fact that I'm surrounded by people with freaky superhuman powers, and most of all, the way that this unbelievably sexy villain/double agent/whatever Kevin is makes every (and I mean every) nerve-ending tingle the second he comes into view...and it appears to be mutual. Living with flying bullets and constant danger is a long way from sweeping up hair at the end of the day. But if it means being around Kevin, a girl could get used to it...

Treasure Island Musical

2009-12-03T05:54:00.000-08:00

Last Sunday, November 29th, I had a chance to watch "Treasure Island" by Theatre Down South at the Insular Life Theatre here in Alabang.

Tickets were at P450 a pop, and was free seating.

I normally try to watch as many plays/musicals as I can whenever I'm free or have extra funds, and this play is much more special because a very, very good buddy of mine is playing a part!

It's actually my first time to ever watch a musical with my friend in a supporting role. Granted, I had a few sniggers here and there because my friend is not himself [ie in character], but it's part of the whole threatre persona!

The show was good -- it remained true to the original tale, based on a book by Robert Louis Stevenson. And I have to admit, when I was watching the play, I couldn't help but compare bits and bobs of the story from the Muppets version of Treasure Island. I can't help it! I loved that movie when I was younger! And who could top those cute little muppet characters?

The props were excellent! It showed the jungle scene very nicely as well as the bar and ship scenes!
There were lots of funny parts in the tale, the music is okay as well, but there were parts of the dialogue I wasn't able to listen [probably because I'm sniggering or whispering around with my friends lol]

At the front of the auditorium, there were numerous props that you could have photos in! Unfortunately, I forgot to bring my camera and my mobile phone was low on battery so I wasn't able to take photos! Dang! Before and after the show, cast members also go around meeting the show watchers! Now that's effort!

Too bad the last run of the show was on the 29th of November, however, I'll watch more musicals by this group [well, mainly because my friend was in it] once the time and fund permits!

On My Wishlist #1

2009-12-01T22:52:00.000-08:00

Beautiful Creatures by Kami Garcia & Margaret Stohl.

I've seen this book on various blogs and they gave it ace reviews! It just came out this week and apparently the rights have been sold to make this into a film! Wow! Something to look forward to!
This is the first out of a series of five novels! Yipes, another series we can drool on after Harry Potter & The Twilight Saga!

Book Description from Amazon.com:

Lena Duchannes is unlike anyone the small Southern town of Gatlin has ever seen, and she's struggling to conceal her power and a curse that has haunted her family for generations. But even within the overgrown gardens, murky swamps and crumbling graveyards of the forgotten South, a secret cannot stay hidden forever.Ethan Wate, who has been counting the months until he can escape from Gatlin, is haunted by dreams of a beautiful girl he has never met. When Lena moves into the town's oldest and most infamous plantation, Ethan is inexplicably drawn to her and determined to uncover the connection between them.

In My Mailbox #3

2009-11-28T17:00:00.000-08:00

In My Mailbox is a weekly meme hosted by The Story Siren

It features bought, borrowed, or received books from the mail. Isn't it fun?

For this week, my hoards are as follows:

Bought

Demonata #5: Blood Beast. Got this from my favourite bookstore and was marked down! It's a hardbound copy and only costs $2.50 [100 PHP]. Who could resist it? Well... I'm still missing books 2-4 but I'll find it eventually.

Book Description from Amazon.com:

Grubbs Grady has so far escaped the family curse, but when he begins to experience alarming symptoms at the onset of the full moon, he is scared that the jaws of fate are opening and about to swallow him whole.

He has cheated death, defeated demons, moved on with his life. But Grubbs is torn between the world of magic and his wolfen genes. Can he fight the beast inside or will he fall victim to his tainted blood?

Meridon - Philippa Gregory. [now I only need a copy of The Favoured Child to complete the series]
Hardbound copy from the user bookstore, bought at PHP50 [around 1.10 USD!]

Warriors - Into the Wild by Erin Hunter. Cute children's book that caught my eye! It's about warrior cats! Whee! Who wouldn't love that? I could totally imagine both our cats becoming warrior cats too. And to top it up, I only got a paperback for PHP15 [around 0.25 USD]

Books on the Spotlight # 1

2009-11-25T20:18:00.000-08:00

Books on the Spotlight is a monthly event I'm doing to highlight books that I've been reading and would feature reviews in the next few weeks.

For December 2009, the books I hope to complete and post reviews of are as follows:
*all images searched from google images; product descriptions from Amazon.com*

Cleopatra's Daughter - Michelle Moran
The marriage of Marc Antony and Cleopatra is one of the greatest love stories of all time, a tale of unbridled passion with earth-shaking political consequences. Feared and hunted by the powers in Rome, the lovers choose to die by their own hands as the triumphant armies of Antony’s revengeful rival, Octavian, sweep into Egypt. Their three orphaned children are taken in chains to Rome; only two– the ten-year-old twins Selene and Alexander–survive the journey. Delivered to the household of Octavian’s sister, the siblings cling to each other and to the hope that they will return one day to their rightful place on the throne of Egypt. As they come of age, they are buffeted by the personal ambitions of Octavian’s family and court, by the ever-present threat of slave rebellion, and by the longings and desires deep within their own hearts.

The fateful tale of Selene and Alexander is brought brilliantly to life in Cleopatra’s Daughter. Recounted in Selene’s youthful and engaging voice, it introduces a compelling cast of historical characters: Octavia, the emperor Octavian’s kind and compassionate sister, abandoned by Marc Antony for Cleopatra; Livia, Octavian's bitter and jealous wife; Marcellus, Octavian’s handsome, flirtatious nephew and heir apparent; Tiberius, Livia’s sardonic son and Marcellus’s great rival for power; and Juba, Octavian’s watchful aide, whose honored position at court has far-reaching effects on the lives of the young Egyptian royals.
Selene’s narrative is animated by the concerns of a young girl in any time and place–the possibility of finding love, the pull of friendship and family, and the pursuit of her unique interests and talents. While coping with the loss of both her family and her ancestral kingdom, Selene must find a path around the dangers of a foreign land. Her accounts of life in Rome are filled with historical details that vividly capture both the glories and horrors of the times. She dines with the empire’s most illustrious poets and politicians, witnesses the creation of the Pantheon, and navigates the colorful, crowded marketplaces of the city where Roman-style justice is meted out with merciless authority.

Based on meticulous research, Cleopatra’s Daughter is a fascinating portrait of imperial Rome and of the people and events of this glorious and most tumultuous period in human history. Emerging from the shadows of the past, Selene, a young woman of irresistible charm and preternatural intelligence, will capture your heart.

Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban - JK Rowling
For twelve long years, the dread fortress of Azkaban held an infamous prisoner named Sirius Black. Convicted of killing thirteen people with a single curse, he was said to be the heir apparent to the Dark Lord, Voldemort.

Now he has escaped, leaving only two clues as to where he might be headed: Harry Potter's defeat of You-Know-Who was Black's downfall as well. And the Azkban guards heard Black muttering in his sleep, "He's at Hogwarts...he's at Hogwarts."

Harry Potter isn't safe, not even within the walls of his magical school, surrounded by his friends. Because on top of it all, there may well be a traitor in their midst.

The Sisterhood of the Travelling Pants - Ann Brashares
Carmen got the jeans at a thrift shop. They didn't look all that great: they were worn, dirty, and speckled with bleach. On the night before she and her friends part for the summer, Carmen decides to toss them. But Tibby says they're great. She'd love to have them. Lena and Bridget also think they're fabulous. Lena decides that they should all try them on. Whoever they fit best will get them. Nobody knows why, but the pants fit everyone perfectly. Even Carmen (who never thinks she looks good in anything) thinks she looks good in the pants. Over a few bags of cheese puffs, they decide to form a sisterhood and take the vow of the Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants . . . the next morning, they say good-bye. And then the journey of the pants — and the most memorable summer of their lives — begins.

Book Review: Me and Mr Darcy - Alexandra Potter

2009-11-23T19:44:00.000-08:00

29-year old Emily Albright is a manager in an independent bookstore in New York City. After one disastrous date after another, her best friend decides to book her on an 18-30 tour in Mexico in order to meet new guys. But Emily, determined to escape that Mexico tour, booked herself a Jane Austen book tour in England.

However, the book tour is not what it seems: it's filled with pensioners, except for one journalist named Spike, who goes about interviewing people about why they think Mr. Darcy is the ideal man.

Until one day, during the tour, Emily meets the real Mr. Darcy.

Thoughts:
Hmm... Initially, I thought "Okay. This seems like an interesting book to read." It is a chick lit that deals with a Pride and Prejudice character -- Mr Darcy. I got it from BookMooch and read it as part of our October Book Club, where we have to read Pride & Prejudice and an offshoot book.

Anyway, lets now go on to my thoughts. First off, I really got confused with the story. Seriously. I had a few moments where I would scratch my head and go "What happened?" and "How did that happen?" Especially in parts where Mr. Darcy would magically appear out of nowhere.

Granted, there were dragging parts every now and again, but some parts were just sooo boring and full of useless details [at least for me], that I had to force myself to go read the next few pages of the book.

Character-wise, Emiy is portrayed as a romantic, idealistic girl, who had no fashion sense whatsoever. But the way the author described how she packed her things as she was leaving New York for London seemed unreal. I mean, packing a lot of books instead of clothes? Come on! That is so unreal. Bookworms usually pack around 3-5 books per trip and if they need to read some more during the trip, they head off to the airport bookstore or any other bookstore they could get their hands on, not pack everything that they have in the closet.
As for Spike, well, he was inconsistently described in the book. He's blonde and a bit dishevelled, but you don't have to go bashing him about saying he's got a potbelly or something.

There's also some characters that don't need to play a supporting role but is wildly described in the story. I don't need that much information, right?

Location-wise, I think it was well-researched, as the places described in the book are existing and do tie up to what is in Jane Austen's novels and/or screen adaptations! I know because I googled them myself too. :) Classic example: Sham Castle in Bath! I've been to Bath [well, for only a few hours] but never knew there was a Sham Castle that existed in the first place!! However, one thing that isn't feasible? The coach picking up all the tour participants in the airport. Of all the tours I've known, they normally pick up the people in their respective hotels or at a bus stop! It isn't feasible to be in an airport!

Plot-wise, It lacks originality. There are some parts which were just a modern retelling of Pride & Prejudice, albeit different circumstances, character names, and jobs. It does have some fantasy elements in it though [what with Mr. Darcy popping up every now and again and blank pages of a book] but definitely not enough to capture my attention.

Overall, I'm a bit torn on whether I liked the book or not, so I'll probably give this a rating of 2.25/5.
I'm surprised that for a chick lit book, the heroine was not funny enough for me, and the scenes between the hero and heroine lacked to give me that fluttery feeling in my stomach that I get whenever there were sweet and cute moments happening between them.

Oh, also don't be surprised that some of the spellings are different -- the author is based in the UK.

Read it if you're a Pride & Prejudice fan who wants to read the story told in a modern point of view, who wants to have a feel of how it would be like to have Mr. Darcy pop up in the modern view, and well, just want to read a chick lit book.

Book Details:
Published: 2007
Source: Bookmooch.
Final Rating: 2.25/5

In My Mailbox # 2

2009-11-20T19:00:00.000-08:00

I'm on a roll!

Last Saturday, I was at the mall near the concert grounds where Katy Perry would have her concert.
Of course I had to stop by my favourite used bookstore chain to see if there was anything worth getting.
I did end up with one book. Then a friend of mine sent me a text message as I was walking to the concert grounds, she said that there was a 20% off sale at one bookstore in a mall on the other side of town.
I so wanted to get the Luxe Box set and with a 20% off incentive,I had to ask my friend to get it for me!

So, for this week, here are my buys:

The Luxe Box Set [actual photo not available since the books are still with my friend and I'm only gonna get them on the 28th when we meet up for a quick catchup! :) ]

Product Description from Amazon.com
Beautiful sisters Elizabeth and Diana Holland rule Manhattan's social scene. But when the girls discover their status among New York City's elite is far from secure, suddenly everyone—from the backstabbing socialite Penelope Hayes, to the debonair bachelor Henry Schoonmaker, to the spiteful maid Lina Broud—threatens Elizabeth's and Diana's golden future.

The first three delicious novels in the Luxe series introduce a world of luxury and deception, where nothing is more dangerous than a scandal or more precious than a secret. . . .

And, from the used bookstore, there's Sweep # 2: The Coven by Cate Tiernan

Product Description from Amazon.com

Cal, now Morgan’s boyfriend, helps her accept the truth: Wicca is in Morgan’s blood. As Morgan learns more about Wicca, she realizes that she needs to find out more about her parentage. The answers are there, but she doesn’t know how to find them.

That's it for now :) More reading ahead!

Kissing Games Of the World Winners!!

2009-11-17T16:00:00.000-08:00

Apologies for not announcing the winner earlier. I've just been swamped with work! *phew*

Anyway, using the help of a random line picker, http://mytexttools.com/Random-Line-Picker.html I finally got to choose the three winners of Kissing Games of the World by Sandi Kahn Shelton

Congratulations guys! I'll send you an email in the next 24-48 hours to get your details :)

New Releases vs Older Releases

2009-11-16T19:50:00.000-08:00

Just a passing note from me-- I've been noticing that most book blogs concentrate on new books being released. Granted, some of them are lucky enough to get Advanced Reader Copies [ARCs] or finished copies from authors or publishers, and some of them do tend to buy new books more often than the older releases.

Which leads me to the question: do you prefer reading new releases [ie books released just this year] or do you prefer reading older releases?

In my case, I prefer reading the older releases. Why? Well, because I love finding older releases on sale in used bookstores! Plus, I get to buy them for more than half the price that's way cheaper than the ones that are still brand-new. To be honest, books are just part of a huge set of addictions that I have so I tend to find something that will entertain me at the lowest cost I could possibly get. Meaning, I don't really buy every book I buy full price [unless I really, really, really, really want to read that certain book.] Plus, these used books have a lot of character in it.

My fascination with older releases is that I get to review books that other people have long forgotten or not have taken a good look at when they were first released. What, with all the hype regarding the new ones, someone has got to review the older ones, right?

That's just my two cents for now.

In My Mailbox #1

2009-11-15T02:32:00.000-08:00

In My Mailbox is a weekly meme hosted by The Story Siren. Granted I don't buy nor receive too many books in my mail, I'll only post In My Mailbox posts whenever I get or buy a book or two :)

So, for this week, I got a lovely package containing "Green" by Ted Dekker from Thomas Nelson for review.

Product Overview from Amazon.com:
AS FORETOLD BY ANCIENT PROPHETS, an apocalypse destroyed Earth during the twenty-first century. But two thousand years later Elyon set upon the earth a new Adam. This time, however, He gave humanity an advantage. What was once unseen became seen. It was good and it was called...Green.

But the evil Teeleh bided his time in a Black Forest.

Then, when least expected, a twenty-four year old named Thomas Hunter fell asleep in our world and woke up in that future Black Forest. A gateway was opened for Teeleh to ravage the land. Devastated by the ruin, Thomas Hunter and his Circle swore to fight the dark scourge until their dying breath.

But now The Circle has lost hope. Samuel, Thomas Hunter's cherished son, has turned his back on his father. He gathers the dark forces to wage a final war. Thomas is crushed and desperately seeks a way back to our reality to find the one elusive hope that could save them all.

Enter an apocalyptic story like none you have read. A story with links to our own history so shocking that you will forget you are in another world at all. Welcome to GREEN. Book Zero.

FOUR NOVELS. TWO WORLDS. ONE STORY.

Cleopatra's Daughter - A Virtual Tour Part I

2009-11-11T20:02:00.000-08:00

I'm LOVING this book. Seriously. It opened my eyes up to the world of Ancient Egypt like it never had.
Granted, I'd always been biased to British history and literary figures but this book has blown me away.
Though it does have it's ups and downs [more of which I'll post when I've finished reading the book, I'm about 1/3 there], I constantly have to google and research to create a visual interpretation of what Michelle Moran was saying in the book.

So, hence, for myself [and any others who might be interested in Ancient Egypt], I created a virtual tour and guide of the times as based from the book of Michelle Moran. Well, mostly I did it to avoid having to google everything again, so I'll just post everything I come up here and credit as necessary. And basically I just want the readers of my blog to appreciate the same things I did whilst I was reading the book!

No spoilers below! But if I do slip, let me know in the comments so I could update this post!

First up, who are these characters from the Hellenistic Egypt times? Well, there's Kleopatra Selene. As per the book, she is the only daughter of Marc Antony and Kleopatra VII.

[Photo on the left from http://www.bible-history.com/] The book is told from her point of view [hence the title "Cleopatra's Daughter". No, it's not about the famous Cleopatra VII talking about her daughter] She was only 11 when her mother and father committed suicide when their empire was falling against Octavian's forces. [Previous sentence is not a spoiler because everyone pretty much knows that they killed themselves -- its part of Ancient History!]

She has a twin brother, Alexander Helios, whom I can't find a decent portraiture on the internet right now, who is more level-headed and is an excellent horseman like his father.

She also has a younger brother, Ptolemy Philadelphius, described to look a lot like Marc Antony [now, I really have to look for photos of Marc Antony!!! Is he that much of a looker? Really?? I couldn't imagine although the bust pieces of him from the museums kinda look interesting -- he's got wavy [or curly] blonde hair, doesn't he?]

Anyways, the book was initially set in Alexandria, where Selene was recounting how lovely the place was. One of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World was located there: The Lighthouse of Alexandria, to which Selene has drawn many wonderful views of the city [painting by Salvador Dali on right].

Alexandria is on the top of Egypt, it is also known for their sea ports and was the capital of Egypt. Alexander the Great had founded this city when he conquered Egypt!

This city is also known for the Library of Alexandria, it was also stated in the book that it's filled with thousands of scrolls and Selene and Alexander loved to read through them. The book also describes the mausoleum of Antony and Kleopatra, and I would've loved to see the mausoleum as well as the Library of Alexandria and the Lighthouse, but unfortunately, they're all destroyed now :( Well, who would've thought it would survive after 2000 years [except for the pyramids of course]

My, my, who would've ever thought that people in those days would ever think that their works and legacy would still live 2000 or more years on?? Hopefully I would love to make at least a tiny bit of impact to the world as much as they did.

I left out my notes at home so I'll create a virtual tour part II when I come up with more interesting bits and bobs. I'm at the part where Kleopatra and Alexander are already seeing the sights and structures of Rome, so the next part would probably be longer than this!

Hope you enjoyed :) I'd already included Alexandria as one of my places to visit in my goal to see the world!

Monobooking vs Polybooking

2009-11-09T18:03:00.000-08:00

Not even sure if there are "monobooking" or "polybooking" in the dictionary or anywhere else in general, but in theory, monobooking means reading only one book at a time, whilst polybooking means reading two or more books at one time.

I've realized over the past few days that I am at a loss at what to blog about. After Harry Potter & the Sorcerer's Stone, I haven't finished a book yet out of the many I've started to read. Granted, for the past week, I've done a million other errands at home and month-end work had just finished so I had no work-life balance at all during the past five days, only got to sleep, eat, get ready for work, and read for 45 minutes to an hour each day on my way to and from work. Ah. The downsides of month-end. But then again, that's really no excuse.

I figure that the reason why I'm really slow in reading books nowadays is that I've started so many books at once! For now, my current reading list is 9 books! Gah. Blame the up and down depression of my past week, I was at a loss of what to read and I wound up jumping from one book to the other when I don't feel like reading the subject anymore.

I've also got a weird habit where there's some books where I absolutely refuse to take out of my room[blame paranoia-- I can't stand the thought of that book being spilled on by water or juice if I brought it in the kitchen, of it being sat on when I bring it in the living room], whilst there are other books that I separate to bring out of the house and swap on bookmooch after I've finished reading. Weird, weird me.

Anyway, I've also got to thinking if any of you lot read one book at a time or read two or more books at any given time? Why do you want to monobook? Why would you prefer to polybook?

Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone

2009-11-05T02:14:00.000-08:00

Book One of Seven in the Harry Potter Series.

Harry Potter was an orphan, living in a cupboard under the stairs with his Aunt Petunia, Uncle Vernon and cousin Dudley. His life is pretty much boring, with not much privileges. Until one day, on his 11th birthday, a letter arrived at #4 Privet Drive, an invitation to attend the Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry.

Then harry realizes he is not an ordinary boy. He is quite known in the wizarding world as the boy who defeated He-Who-Must-Not-Be-Named [Voldemort], and also became the youngest seeker for Griffindor in a century.

On his first year at Hogwarts, Harry is exposed to the Sorcerer's Stone - a stone that produces an elixr that can bring eternal life, and also has the capability to create gold. With new friends Ron and Hermione, Harry is thrust in a new adventure on their quest to find out who wanted to steal and usethe Sorcerer's Stone.

I have to stop my makeshift summary there as I don't really want to give away any spoilers.

I first read this book way back in 1999, when I was still a sophomore in high school. When I tweeted that I was reading this book, many of my friends asked why I was reading this book again when this is the third [or fourth? I've lost count]. Well, I wanted to read it as part of the Harry Potter Reading Challenge as hosted by GalleySmith. In the challenge, we're asked to read all 7 Harry Potter books and this is the first step!

Anyway, my review of the book.

I've always liked Harry Potter. The way JK Rowling wrote the story was so believable, you'd want to be transported to Hogwarts! The plotline was so cleverly constructed, and as I was first reading Sorcerer's Stone, I totally believed that Snape was the one after the Stone [although he was the Red Herring.... I was ignorant back then :P]

Do read the series if you haven't -- the movie is loyal to the book, although the book has far more details, which could explain some underlying questions that you might encounter in the movie.

Back when I was in London, I did a really quick Harry Potter tour by going to "Diagon Alley" [Leadenhall Market] and Platform 9 3/4 at King's Cross. I will probably post that adventure up in one of my travel-related blogs. Haha. The experience of pretending to "push" the cart through the wall in Platform 9 3/4: Priceless.

Also got to Oxford where the Great Hall scenes were shot. I could just imagine being part of Slytherin or Ravenclaw or Griffindor or Hufflepuff and being excited of waving my wand and learning new tricks!

Overall, I'd give this book 4.5/5! :) It sure was a good fantasy book, and I can't wait to re-read the rest of the series.

My copy: A paperback, bought at National Bookstore way back in 1999 for P189.50 [around $4.50 in the current conversion]. The spines are creased, the pages are brown, but still something to keep in the personal library.

New layout

2009-11-04T18:47:00.000-08:00

As you can see everyone, I've got a new layout. Yay! So happy about this :) Hope you do to -- With the two sidebars, everything is so much more organized!

I do apologise for losing the quick links and the books I'm reading on the side of the page but I'll try to get it up within a few days.

Work has been hectic for me, but so far I've read Harry Potter & the Sorcerer's Stone, the review of which I'll post within the next few days also [after I've finished editing the layout and trying to recover my lost widgets]

What to do in a blackout?

2009-11-01T03:34:00.000-08:00

So, there was another storm that passed through Manila yesterday [Mirinae], and we've had a blackout for nearly 30+ hours.

And I got to thinking... what do you do when there's a blackout?

For me, I did the following:
- In the morning, while there was still light, I read! I made significant progress on "Cleopatra's Daughter" by Michelle Moran.
- I ate, ate and ate. I think I must've gained a few pounds.
- In the evening, I had at least 90%+ of battery life on my laptop -- I watched an episode of The Vampire Diaries and got to move a few files to my mobile phone before the laptop batteries' died out. My laptop is 6years old so the battery isn't exactly the best quality anymore.
- In the latter part of the evening [after eating dinner and helping to clean the dishes], I listened to some audiobooks.

So now, I've got another problem.

I think I've broken my universal remote control!
So, without any tv or dvd, what would you do? I need suggestions until I could get myself another universal remote control.
I'm thinking the following:
1. Read some more
2. Finish the scrapbook projects I have
3. Surf the internet [no matter how slow my connection is -- my WiFi says I'm only at GPRS speed]
4. Watch telly series on my PC.
5. Continue watching the telly but resort to the good old fashioned channel changing by getting my bum off the bed and manually pressing the channel + and channel - buttons.

Good enough? :)

Book Chick City Contest!!

2009-11-01T03:09:00.000-08:00

BookChickCity.com is giving away a bundle of books! :)

Head on over to her site now to enter:
http://www.bookchickcity.com/2009/06/all-hallows-eve-your-scary-stories-or.html

I'll post a regular blog in a few hours -- we've just gotten power from a blackout from the storm and spent a few hours trying to catch up on reading, charging batteries, and cleaning the house!

Eclipse - Stephenie Meyer

2009-10-29T23:27:00.000-07:00

Being the loser that I am, I did not catch on the Twilight bandwagon early and instead decided to take my own pace as I try and read all the books in the Twilight Saga.

I've already reviewed New Moon in this blog, but I was at a loss to review the first book, Twilight.

Anyway, in the third installment of the series, it chronicles Bella as she tries to choose between Jacob and Edward on who should own her heart.

The first part of the tale also covers a back story on Edward, Jasper, and Rosalie, which was most interesting, and definitely worth pondering upon.

The latter part, ugh, it was one of the most excruciating reads of my life. It dragged on and on and on. I didn't want to know the full details of how Edward and Jacob were playing mind games just to win over Bella. Nor did I need to know how selfish Bella was when she was asking Edward to stay by her side.
Nor was I amused about how Bella started using "Please?" to get whatever she wanted from Edward.
Ugh. Pathetic.

To be honest the writing was definitely not something to be also amused about. I feel a fifth grader could write better plot lines and story twists than this.

Well, there was a bit of action in the book, maybe centered in one chapter. But most of it was "missed out" because the bulk of the action was handled by Edward's family & the wolf pack at some other clearing. It was narrated briefly through Edward's communication with the wolf pack through *gasp* his mind-reading skill.

I sure hope the movie is better than the book though. For one, it should feature more action sequences and definitely should focus on the vamps and werewolves more. Bella is just plain boring for me. It's really painful to read through her point of view as it contains nothing but Edward, Edward and Edward.

Seriously, can a girl ever be that pathetic? To only just want to be the damsel in distress all the freaking time?
Is one ever that accident prone and has the worst luck in the world? Gah.

I am seriously not amused with this book.

Nevertheless, I will continue to read on the fourth book in the series, "Breaking Dawn." I do hope it will be so much more interesting than this third installment.

I would give this book a 2/5 rating. I'd read better books but this one has its ups as well.

Sometimes I wonder why I even bought this book in the first place. Is it about the hype that surrounded it? Perhaps so. Or maybe it was because of the vamps and werewolves. It cost me P260 pesos from National Bookstore [I got it at a 20% discount]

So far, my personal ranking of the Twilight Books are as follows

1) New Moon -- because there was a character development in Jacob, and the tale was quite amusing [the Volturi part in Italy, Jacob's transformation & love, good, good].
2) Eclipse -- just because of all the back stories
3) Twilight -- the first book is the worst of all. I can't even bring myself to blog about it because it bored me half to death. I had to stop for a few months and go back to it because I just couldn't stand not finishing a book.

(500) Days of Summer

2009-10-26T20:06:00.000-07:00

I am a wee bit bored and tired from last night so I might as well lighten things up with a blog post to release some of the stress and tension from my little brain lol.

So, last Wednesday, my friend and I saw (500) Days of Summer in the cinema. It was shown a few months ago in the US and some other countries and I have no clue why it took so long to show it here in Manila.

It stars Joseph Gordon Levitt (I loooooved him in 3rd Rock from the Sun. It's one of the best telly shows in the 90s IMO) and Zooey Deschanel (who I think looks like Katy Perry and she turns out to be Emily Deschanel's little sister!)

Anyway, on to the story. It;s a story about Tom, and how he chronicles 500 days of knowing, dating, and getting over Summer, a girl whom he thinks is "The One" for him.

It's a typical chick flick, although presented in such a non-linear way [ie first scene may show day one, then the next would show day 100+ ] throughout the movie. I also loved that there were some scenes show in parallel -- ie the scene of what really happened & in half the screen, shows what Tom had pictured the scene to happen in his mind.

Anyway, unlike typical chick flicks, the story did not really have that happy happy ending where the hero and heroine would get back together and live happily ever after. No, no. It just goes to show that the movie is [un]predictable in some aspects and makes you wonder what surprises the next scene would bring.

I think it's like an independent movie, but maybe it was just presented that way? I honestly have no idea.

So, would I recommend watching this movie? Yes! Definitely. But it's not something you'd watch over and over and over again, unless you're a superfan of Zooey or Joseph Gordon-Levitt.

On other movie news --- I've just seen a rerun of Notting Hill on the HBO a few days back and I bawled.
That, on the other hand, is my favourite movie of all time. Hands down.

On bookish news -- I'm nearly finished with Eclipse by Stephenie Meyer [yay!] and halfway through Harry Potter & the Sorcerer's Stone. I hope to put up the reviews on it very, very soon. I've done much reading on these two during the readathon.

On other books? Well, I'm currently juggling reading 7 books at one time, so forgive me for the lack of bookish updates.

Which reminds me that I have a backlog of travel posts as well.

*groans*

The 24hour readathon wrap-up post.

2009-10-25T06:46:00.000-07:00

So, the readathon officially ended an hour and a half ago.

Now I'm trolling around the internet, trying to find something else to do. Lol. How pathetic am I? :P

It was my first time to do the readathon, and I was surprised it was so much fun! And here I thought it was going to be all stressful as I try to read page after page of books, and trying to "compete" with other readers in trying to read books but it didn't turn out that way at all.

I enjoyed being a cheerleader -- I managed to visit some websites that I didn't know about and also getting a peek in how other readers were progressing in the readathon. I managed to find out books that I had no clue existed in the first place, and also take a peek at some upcoming releases in the latter part of 2009 and in 2010. Amazing.

I also managed to take part in some of the mini-challenges. I love the way my heart thumps faster than normal as I try to post in my answers in the fastest time possible to get back to reader and/or cheerleading. It was fun stress! lol.

So, here are my final stats from the readathon. I'll look forward for the April leg, I just hope that I would be free on the day they schedule it.

Pages read - Eclipse - Stephenie Meyer - 36

Harry Potter & the Sorcerer's Stone - JK Rowling - 124

Kissing Games of the World - Sandi Kahn Shelton - 6

Pride & Prejudice - 2

Total number of pages read - 168 [hmm... okay then. others have read 1000+ pages but to each their own. I am a really slow reader anyway]

Mini challenges completed - 14

Prize won - One! A random cheerlead prize. Wheeee!!! My first prize ever from the readathon -- and since I've started cheering as well! teehee.

Number of other sites visited/cheered on - 31, I think? I don't really remember since I've only kept track during the third hour! teehee. *blush*

Overall, the readathon has been a success for me. Wheeee!!!

Meme: Eight of my favourite things.

2009-10-25T03:32:00.000-07:00

It's nearing the last few hours of the readathon and I am now in the mood for some mini-challenges! :) Having done my errands for the night, I am free until 8PM Manila time to read like crazy [cramming] and also participating in last-minute mini-challenges.

This is hosted by Princess Bookie and I should jot down 8 of my favourite things. Here goes.

1. My mum <3
2. Goofy, my little doggie, whom I treat like my own baby
3. Money, money, money, and lots of money.
4. My house. I <3 it. I grew up in it, and houses all my stuff, my mum, and my baby Goofy as well.
5. Our car. It's old now, but I still <3 it.
6. Travelling. [Not a thing? Hmm... maybe different countries then?]
7. Concerts and events. I really, really love them.
8. My laptop! What else? :)

** Could the list go infinitely? I would put in my mobile phone, dvds, music, and so much more ***

The 24hour readathon [Day 2]

2009-10-24T17:06:00.000-07:00

READATHON DAY 2

** my other blog is getting long so I decided to create another one for this occassion.

First off, if you want to win a book, please comment on this link below:
http://rubylovesadventure.blogspot.com/2009/10/book-giveaway-kissing-games-of-world.html

Click on the read more link below to see all the contents!

HOUR 12 - 7AM Manila time

So, I woke up at 7:30AM [Manila time] with my mom and my dog out the garden, playing.
I've slept for 5 hours [not bad at all], and I'm completely refreshed and am continuing reading Harry Potter.
What else did I do? oh. I read some posts whilst I was asleep and opened my mail and read twitter. Normal internet stuff. Maybe later I'll cheer lead again but I've got to catch up on my reading first!

Many thanks on all those who commented on my other post. Will reply as soon as I can :D

Book I'm reading now: Harry Potter & the Sorcerer's Stone

Pages read - Eclipse - Stephenie Meyer - 25

Harry Potter & the Sorcerer's Stone - JK Rowling - 68 and counting

Total number of pages read - 93+

Mini challenges completed - 7

Prize won - One! A random cheerlead prize. Wheeee!!! My first prize ever from the readathon -- and since I've started cheering as well! teehee.

Number of other sites visited/cheered on - 18, I think? I don't really remember since I've only kept track during the third hour! teehee. *blush*

Mid-Event Survey:

1. What are you reading right now?

Harry Potter & the Sorcerer's Stone - JK Rowling

Eclipse - Stephenie Meyer

Kissing Games of the World - Sandi Kahn Shelton

Pride & Prejudice - Jane Austen

2. How many books have you read so far?

None, as I said before, I read very slowly :P

3. What book are you most looking forward to for the second half of the Read-a-thon?

Hopefully finishing Eclipse by Stephenie Meyer

4. Did you have to make any special arrangements to free up your whole day?

Not really. I'm going out later so I'll just read audiobooks in the car or while running errands, and read physical books while waiting for my mom

5. Have you had many interruptions? How did you deal with those?

Does eating count as an interruption? I don't really have interruptions. It's just me, my PC, my bed, and a stack of books beside me.

6. What surprises you most about the Read-a-thon, so far?

That it's stressful but fun? lol. I actually won a prize, which was also a surprise!

7. Do you have any suggestions for how to improve the Read-a-thon next year?

Not really. Keep it going, I love the readathon :)

8. What would you do differently, as a Reader or a Cheerleader, if you were to do this again next year?

I'd probably store up more audio books, it's very useful! Plus, maybe some really thin novels as well. I don't really have any thin novels so I can't complete a book within an hour or so.

9. Are you getting tired yet?

Nope, I just woke up! :P It's 8 in the morning here in Manila

10. Do you have any tips for other Readers or Cheerleaders, something you think is working well for you that others may not have discovered?

Whilst cheerleading, it's fun to "read" audiobooks. That means you're reading and cheerleading at the same time! Multitasking! :D

HOUR 13 - 8AM Manila time

Okay. My first distraction. After eating breakfast and catching up on posts, my dog suddenly whimpered and wants to go out and spend time with me.
I couldn't say no, so I went out and played with him for a while. :)

Now back to reading and the stats:

Book I'm reading now: Harry Potter & the Sorcerer's Stone

Pages read - Eclipse - Stephenie Meyer - 25

Harry Potter & the Sorcerer's Stone - JK Rowling - 71 and counting

Total number of pages read - 96+

Mini challenges completed - 10

Prize won - One! A random cheerlead prize. Wheeee!!! My first prize ever from the readathon -- and since I've started cheering as well! teehee.

Number of other sites visited/cheered on - 22, I think? I don't really remember since I've only kept track during the third hour! teehee. *blush*

***ENTRY TO MINI-CHALLENGE***
Okay. This is an entry to the musical mini-challenge.

This is the song I remember whenever I "read" books. Well, simply because it has the words "read between the lines" in the lyrics lol. Anyway, it's from my favourite band, Boys Like Girls, and the song title is "Up Against the Wall"

HOUR 14 - 9AM Manila time

Book I'm reading now: Harry Potter & the Sorcerer's Stone

Pages read - Eclipse - Stephenie Meyer - 25

Harry Potter & the Sorcerer's Stone - JK Rowling - 81 and counting

Total number of pages read - 106+

Mini challenges completed - 14

Prize won - One! A random cheerlead prize. Wheeee!!! My first prize ever from the readathon -- and since I've started cheering as well! teehee.

Number of other sites visited/cheered on - 29, I think? I don't really remember since I've only kept track during the third hour! teehee. *blush*

***DEWEY MINI-CHALLENGE***
Without Dewey then the 24hour readathon would probably not have been conceivable in the first place. Many thanks to you. This readathon is in your honour. I haven't really known you personally nor had a correspondence with you, but your memory still remains.

HOUR 16 - 22 - 11AM-5PM Manila time

I will probably be offline, we're going to church, then the grocery. Right now I'm off to lunch. No cheerleading nor physical reading but I'm bringing my audiobooks along.

Have fun everyone :) Will post once I'm back online

HOUR 23 - 6PM Manila time

Book I'm reading now: Harry Potter & the Sorcerer's Stone

Pages read - Eclipse - Stephenie Meyer - 36

Harry Potter & the Sorcerer's Stone - JK Rowling - 85 and counting

Kissing Games of the World - Sandi Kahn Shelton - 6 and counting

Pride & Prejudice - 2

Total number of pages read - 129

Mini challenges completed - 14

Prize won - One! A random cheerlead prize. Wheeee!!! My first prize ever from the readathon -- and since I've started cheering as well! teehee.

Number of other sites visited/cheered on - 29, I think? I don't really remember since I've only kept track during the third hour! teehee. *blush*

HOUR 24 - 7PM Manila time

End of event meme -- quite sad that the readathon is now nearly over.

1. Which hour was most daunting for you?
Hour 6, that was 2AM Manila time. I literally logged in to the updates and zonked out after reading a few lines in "Kissing Games of the World"

2. Could you list a few high-interest books that you think could keep a Reader engaged for next year?
I am very biased to fantasy books, they normally interest me, so I would say the Charlaine Harris series, Harry Potter, The Twilight Saga. All right, I am also big on the popular title books. I haven't read that much titles yet to really recommend something that's not in the New York Times Bestseller list

3. Do you have any suggestions for how to improve the Read-a-thon next year?
Probably more mini-challenges? That is definitely something that readers would need to at least preoccupy themselves while online and is a welcome distraction from reading.

4. What do you think worked really well in this year’s Read-a-thon?
It's well organized! The posts are on time, and there are numerous reminders also for cheerleaders. Not to mention the surprise draw of winners. That's always fun!

5. How many books did you read?
I've tried reading 4 books, finishing none of them. LOL. But I did make significant progress in them.. Like in Harry Potter, I've finished more than 1/3 of the book. Something I would never have done on normal days [as I'm probably busy with work or watching the telly or something like that]

6. What were the names of the books you read?
Harry Potter & the Sorcerer's Stone - JK Rowling
Eclipse - Stephenie Meyer
Kissing Games of the World - Sandi Kahn Shelton
Pride & Prejudice - Jane Austen

7. Which book did you enjoy most?
Harry Potter & the Sorcerer's Stone.

8. Which did you enjoy least?
Pride & Prejudice. I had difficulty with the language, sorry :(

9. If you were a Cheerleader, do you have any advice for next year’s Cheerleaders?
Go go go cheerleaders! Create a mini-list of blogs you'll want to visit and try and leave comments as much as you can :)

10. How likely are you to participate in the Read-a-thon again? What role would you be likely to take next time?
Oh, more than likely, if I'm free at the time! I would sign up again as both a reader and a cheerleader. They're good fun!

Book I'm reading now: Harry Potter & the Sorcerer's Stone

Pages read - Eclipse - Stephenie Meyer - 36

Harry Potter & the Sorcerer's Stone - JK Rowling - 106 and counting

Kissing Games of the World - Sandi Kahn Shelton - 6 and counting

Pride & Prejudice - 2

Total number of pages read - 150

Mini challenges completed - 14

Prize won - One! A random cheerlead prize. Wheeee!!! My first prize ever from the readathon -- and since I've started cheering as well! teehee.

Number of other sites visited/cheered on - 31, I think? I don't really remember since I've only kept track during the third hour! teehee. *blush*

24hour readathon updates

2009-10-23T23:28:00.000-07:00

PRE-READATHON POST:

Gah.

My internet is such a pain right now. It keeps on disconnecting for some reason or another! Othertimes, its dialup speed slow. Ugh.

Anyhow, I'm posting this in preparation for the 24hour readathon tonight [its nearly 3pm here in Manila so 5 more hours to go before the readathon]

I'm well rested [sort of] and ready to go. My book list is ready as well.

Will edit this post with every hour that I am in the readathon. :D

Oh by the way, if you happen to pass by my blog, you live in the US and want to win a FREE book, please do so by leaving a comment here:
http://rubylovesadventure.blogspot.com/2009/10/book-giveaway-kissing-games-of-world.html

THE READATHON

***CLICK ON THE READ MORE TO SEE THE POST...***
~This is a long, comprehensive post of all the hours I'd stayed up for the readathon~

HOUR ONE [8pm Manila time]

So I tucked in my audiobook of Eclipse [I had a drastic headache tonight, must have been after all the partying from last night] and since I logged on to the readathon page, there was a mini-challenge that I was keen to do.

Mini Challenge # 1

Where are you reading from today?
I'll be reading from home, currently at my mom's bedroom since the internet speed here is faster than my room [currently using Wifi internet]

3 facts about me …
I read very slowly
I live in a third world country
I love to travel

How many books do you have in your TBR pile for the next 24 hours?
Currently have less than 7, but maybe more as we go along?

Do you have any goals for the read-a-thon (i.e. number of books, number of pages, number of hours, or number of comments on blogs)?
Nothing much. I just hope to complete at least one book, I'll be very happy with that.

If you’re a veteran read-a-thoner, Any advice for people doing this for the first time?

It's my first time!! :D

HOUR TWO [9pm Manila time]

Still "reading" [ie listening] to Stephenie Meyer's Eclipse. I am currently browsing through the blogs, and hopefully i'll continue to do so until around midnight [Manila time] tonight!

Mini-challenge # 2

So I joined another mini-challenge and it's about the readathon trending on twitter.

So here's the screenshot of my post as well as the trending topic in twitter. Awesome!

HOUR 3 [10PM Manila time]

Okay, so I've switched from "reading" Eclipse by Stephenie Meyer to "Harry Potter & the Sorcerer's Stone" by JK Rowling. Still reading via audiobooks because my eyes and head are still hurting. And well, audiobooks give me a much better chance of multi-tasking than by reading physical or electronic copies of books. Good thing I stocked up on audio books then.

I've left off on Chapter 20-something in Eclipse whilst I'm on Chapter 1 in Harry Potter.

More updates to come!

I've joined in a few more mini-challenges too, one of them pinpointing my location whilst the others are commenting in the websites recommended by the readathon.

Done a bit share of cheerleading too.

My, this is hard.

I have to log out for now and change rooms. My mom is getting sleepy and I've got to relocate.

HOUR 4 [11PM Manila time]

So, I'm still on Harry Potter & the Sorcerer's Stone.
Pages read from the first three hours [including Eclipse - Stephenie Meyer]: 34 pages
[I know, pathetic, right? But I had to eat at 8PM, plus move stuff around & do other chores, and cheerlead... all right, I'm rambling now].

HOUR 5 [12MN Manila time, October 25th]

Book I'm reading now: Harry Potter & the Sorcerer's Stone

Pages read - Eclipse - Stephenie Meyer - 20

Harry Potter & the Sorcerer's Stone - JK Rowling - 35 and counting

Total number of pages read - 55

Mini challenges completed - 4

Prize won - One! A random cheerlead prize. Wheeee!!! My first prize ever from the readathon -- and since I've started cheering as well! teehee.

Number of other sites visited/cheered on - 8, I think? I don't really remember since I've only kept track during the third hour! teehee. *blush*

HOUR 6 [1AM Manila time, October 25th]

Book I'm reading now: Harry Potter & the Sorcerer's Stone

Pages read - Eclipse - Stephenie Meyer - 20

Harry Potter & the Sorcerer's Stone - JK Rowling - 56 and counting

Total number of pages read - 76+

Mini challenges completed - 5

Prize won - One! A random cheerlead prize. Wheeee!!! My first prize ever from the readathon -- and since I've started cheering as well! teehee.

Number of other sites visited/cheered on - 15, I think? I don't really remember since I've only kept track during the third hour! teehee. *blush*

Okay, it's official: I probably won't be posting on hour 7 as my eyes are already drooping and I'll just read a physical book to get me to sleep.
More updates tomorrow [Manila time] and hopefully more challenges to join in!
Will be creating a new post tomorrow as this post is already too long!

Good night folks!

I never expected the readathon to be this fun :P Many thanks to all cheerleaders and other people who dropped by my blog during the first hours.

Raygun Live in Manila, October 18th, 2009

2009-10-22T02:48:00.000-07:00

So, last Sunday, October 18th, I went to SM North Edsa's The Block atrium to catch a show by a new British band called Raygun.

Well, I don't really know them much, except that a good friend of mine is totally addicted to them [esp the bassist] and begged me to come. Well, since I had nothing to do that Sunday afternoon and I'm curious to see if this band is ~~cute~~ good, I am happy to oblige with her request.

I arrived at SM North around 4:15pm -- the show was at 5pm and I'm not really expecting it to start on time given that no one really follows the exact time here in the Philippines.

Calallilly [sp?] started the set by singing a few songs [not a big fan of them, sorry, don't know any of their song titles] followed by Raygun.

Raygun setlist [many thanks Dez!]

1. Can't say no
2. Rocketblast
3. Waiting in Line
4. Just Because
5. Lord forgive me
6. See you later

Just bloody 6 songs? Come on! The event was only around 30-40 minutes long!
Meanwhile, enjoy some photos I shot at the event. There's probably gonna be more uploads once I have the time to upload them.

At the end of the concert, there was a meet & greet. Oh, I actually won a contest from a local music channel here in Manila and I got a free t-shirt and poster [which I got signed] from the band. I also got my photos taken with them too [but no, I'm probably not going to upload my photos with the band here].

The next day, the band went to a radio station. I was initially slated to go but since I've also got to work, I decided to choose the latter. Hey, I don't want to get fired! I need the money to pay off my bills & necessities lol. The band would have to wait.

Hopefully the band would come back. Until then, I'm off to enjoy my life! :D

Spring Awakening

2009-10-19T22:51:00.000-07:00

Forgive my lack of updates recently. I've been ill last Friday and I've had a really packed weekend!

First off, this Saturday, I went with a good friend of mine to watch the Spring Awakening musical here in Manila, held at the RCBC theatre.

We're lucky enough to get good loge seats, and our view was excellent!

For those of you who are unfamiliar with this theatre production, Spring Awakening is a play first done in 1891 by Frank Wedekind. It was initially banned for show in Germany due to controversial topics [more about that later]. It tells the tale of a group of teenagers, mainly Melchior Gabor, the "perfect" student -- always getting good grades and is a role model to his peers, Moritz - the goof, he's tagged as a failure, and is very curious about women, Wendla - an innocent girl who eventually falls for Melchior, and Ilsa - she's the "rebel" -- she is living in the streets.

I loved this musical! It is absolutely fantastic -- the music was so good [it was written by Duncan Sheik], it had me singing the lines "blah blah blah blah blah blah blah blah blah" after we have already left the theatre and was on our way to a second-hand bookstore. This soundtrack is currently on queue on my download list. The performances were great, but there were some downsides:
1. There are some scenes that got me all confused -- some characters did not have the proper closure that I expected [ie Ilsa and Melchior]; also the adult parts got me confused as well. Who's the parent of whom? If only one actor plays one female adult and one male adult, and you would only have one costume the whole play, wouldn't you get confused as well?
2. Not enough props -- there was a part where Melchior was supposed to be in a graveyard and there were tubes everywhere, but uh.. the Manila production didn't even have fake tombstones in the area.

Guess those are the downsides and ups for now.

Now, for those of you who are going to watch [in other countries, or for the next run of this play in Manila, whenever that may be], here's some things you have to prepare yourself for: *a bit of spoilers. Skip this part if you want to be totally surprised*
1. There's some instances of masturbation that were shown in the play. It's not the explicit kind, of course, but still, don't be shocked.
2. There's some breast & butt exposure [but I heard that there was nudity in the other country's version? can anyone verify this? I am off to surf reviews from other countries after I post this]
3. Suicide is tackled
4. They talk about sex
5. Male kissing is also included [yes, the homo kind, not the bromance kind]
6. Abortion

Overall, the play is very good, its worth my time and money. It's one of those plays that made the hairs at the back of my neck stand up. Good, good, good. Actors were also awesome [Joaquin Valdez is good as Melchior, but the dude that played Moritz? Hats off to you, you were also good as well], the venue is in the Central district as well so it is very accessible!

I think the last run of the play here in Manila was last Sunday, October 18th, but hey, here's wishing to another run!

After the concert, we went off to a secondhand bookstore, and I snagged myself a copy of "The Duchess" by Amanda Foreman. Whee!

The 24hour readathon TBR pile

2009-10-15T23:31:00.000-07:00

Finally! This post was going to be posted a few days ago but I was having difficulty editing my blogger post!

After my last depressing blog entry, I decided to post a more happier one -- The 24 hour readathon! It's going to be next Saturday, from 24th of October 8pm Manila time till the 25th of October, 8pm.

I will be reading from 8pm-12mn [possibly even 1am], then from 9am till the evening. [minus a few other personal time as well]

Below is a list of books I hope to be reading during the whole readathon:

1. Cleopatra's Daughter - Michelle Moran
2. Angels & Demons - Dan Brown
3. Eclipse - Stephenie Meyer

My backup pile:
1. Harry Potter & the Sorcerer's Stone - JK Rowling
2. Me & Mr Darcy - Alexandra Potter

It is quite a short list, given that I read very, very slow.

I will be posting updates through my blog or through my twitter account @rubyreads every hour, will be joining the mini-challenges & also cheering the other readers on *phew*

That's it for now! :)

RIP Stephen Gately [1976-2009]

2009-10-12T20:31:00.000-07:00

Not a book nor a travel related post. This is something more personal and maybe, music related.

I just need an outlet to post my thoughts and feelings about this issue so bear with me.

I got a text from one of my closest friends last Sunday, saying that Stephen Gately of Boyzone just died.

At first I was doubtful that this was true. Boyzone's manager was undeniably the greatest tabloid story maker of all time, going to lengths of exaggerating stories about the artists he manages.

But this time, the stories were true. He did indeed die tragically whilst on holiday in Majorca, Spain. Cause of death was still unknown.

So why am I moved by this death? Well, to be honest, Boyzone was a HUGE part of my life. I was around 12 when I found their music out, and was always listening to them whilst I was dealing with my father's illness, and eventual passing. I grew up with them, their songs always make my heart skip a bit, and since I was quite young when the boyz went to Manila and dealing with a loss of a loved one in 1998, I never got to see them live.

My mom tried her best to make up for lost time of me not being able to watch my favourite band on earth. One day, when I found out Stephen Gately was going to Manila for a promotional tour at the Hard Rock Cafe, my mom helped me secure tickets and even drove me and my best friend to the concert.

That was the first time I've ever seen Stephen Gately personally.

I want to upload the photos but I've got to find the hardcopies and the negatives first. In that day and age, there were only analog cameras. I was granted access to a press conference [God knows how I got in], and also front row seats in the performance. *sigh* Those were the days.

Stephen used to be my favourite member in Boyzone when I was younger until he was eventually overshadowed by Ronan Keating.

10 years on, in 2008, I was lucky enough to be sent on a business trip to London.

A few days before June 1, 2008, I was surfing the internet to look for concerts in London while I was around. Lo and behold, Boyzone were performing in Wembley Arena on June 1, 2008 as part of their comeback tour. [Another travel-related blog post will be uploaded within the next few weeks/days about my trip to Wembley]

I was a bit apprehensive at first since I've no one to go with but hey, I don't care if I'm alone. I've got the ultimate sign: I've got 6th row front centre block tickets during my last minute booking. See photo above on how close I was :D

I was shocked. I immediately booked it and well.... I got to see them live on June 1st, just a few hours after landing in London.

That's how big a fan I was.

High school friends, officemates, and other friends all left me messages about Stephen Gately's passing.

And I was deeply moved that they immediately thought of me after [well, being one of their biggest fans in the third world from grade school until now, who wouldn't forget me?]

It just goes to show how life is so short. :( There were so many people tragically dying in 2009. You don't really know when you're going to go.

So while the fate of the band is still in limbo, and whilst the rest of the boyz are still coping, we still have to move on right now.

*sigh*

RIP Steo, you will be missed.

London: North Greenwich O2 Arena

2009-10-08T21:31:00.000-07:00

Since I don't have any bookish related things to share, and since a friend of mine wanted me to blog about some of my travels, I might as well start off with a long overdue post from a trip to the UK last June-July 2008.

After a long plane ride from Manila to Dubai and finally to London, I landed on June 1st, Saturday, around 8AM.
[More info in another blog post]

After resting in my apartment in Smithfield, unpacking and cooking my lunch, it was time to go sightseeing with my friends!

First up was North Greenwich.

** Map of the different areas in Central London's East Side. Taken near St. Paul's Cathedral by myself **

From Farringdon station, I bought myself an Oyster Card [tip: buy an Oyster card! It is accepted in the bus and the Underground and you'll get fares that are so much cheaper than the typical single fare rate]. I honestly have no idea which station or line of train we rode in and where we stopped! I was at a daze! I think we went down the Circle/Metropolitan line [again, I don't remember] in Westminster [or was it London Bridge?] but when we headed for the Jubilee line, we found out it was closed! Good thing there were free bus services that were shuttling us around the areas where the Jubilee line was supposed to service.

Note: If travelling in London, most underground lines or stations could be closed during weekends because they're under maintenance service. Before you enter the train station, always read the advisories first to make alternate routes. The underground station is quite confusing to understand at first, but every station has free maps in it, and most station has an interchange or another station within walking distance so you could easily find your way around it, easypeasy! :) Also take note that some stations or train lines close earlier than the others so do make your research and you'll be fine :)

We went down the O2 Arena.

Map of London's underground. Confusing? Not really. The different colours represent the different train lines and the circles are station names.

The O2 Arena is a large multimedia arena that used to be called the Millennium Dome. It is the venue for some of the concerts hosted in London. At the time I was there, The Osmonds were playing, and two days before were Boyzone [more about Boyzone later]. It was such a huge venue, it houses a cinema [called the Vue], an exhibition hall [called the O2 Bubble -- King Tut was exhibited at the time, it was actually their first exhibition in this venue, and again, this will be elaborated on another post], various restaurants and bars [Entertainment Avenue], and some other stores. Plus, the dome itself is very distinctive -- you could easily see it from aerial shots of London. *sigh*

There is no entrance fee to go around the O2 grounds, but separate entrance fees if you're going to watch a concert or go see an exhibition in the hall. If you're going to convert from peso to pounds, be sure not to be shocked at the prices cos some of them are absolutely outrageous! At the time, the pound-peso exchange rate was nearly P90 so do the math :P

** me at the O2 Arena **

After the O2, we also went around the North Greenwich area, which will be covered in another post!

Tah for now!

Pride and Prejudice - Jane Austen

2009-10-07T20:09:00.000-07:00

One of the classic books from Jane Austen. The last time I actually read this book was in high school, for a book report from school.

And so I took out my old book from the shelf at the basement, and decided to re-read it for the October book discussion of my book club [well, the book discussion was postponed until November until further notice]

The basic plot of the book is simple: boy meets girl, boy falls in love with girl, girl rejects boy because she thinks him to be a pompous man, girl then thinks that rejecting boy was stupid, boy does everything to make it right for girl, girl realizes she loves boy, boy and girl meet again, confess their true feelings and live happily ever after.

Such is the story of Elizabeth Bennet and Mr. Darcy. Elizabeth is the second of five children, all girls, whom their mother has no real dreams but to have all five of them entered in suitable marriages with husbands that are rich, or have enough money on them. Mr. Darcy is born in high society, Elizabeth was just a simple girl who believes in falling in love before getting married. See the prejudice in the two different circles where Elizabeth and Darcy belong to.

It is such a quintessential fairy tale but is one of the most romantic love stories of all time. It's book has been in circulation for nearly two centuries already, could you believe it? In my book it says that its first printing was in 1813! My gosh. And it still continues to delight readers until today.

But honestly, it was one of the most boring books I've ever read. Ugh. Maybe it has got something to do with the "Old" English writing. The author tends to overexplain everything and was written in such a minute detail that it was enough to bore me to sleep not just once, twice, but many times as well. Oftentimes, I find myself being sleepy or drowsy just after reading 5 pages of it. It was such a painful book to read. *sigh*

But nevertheless the book has its ups as well, there were moments that were so sweet you couldn't help but ooooh and aaaahhh and imagine what is happening between Mr Darcy and Elizabeth at the time. I especially loved the scene at Pemberley! *sigh* Those are page-turners on my book!

This book has been translated in the book screen a few times already, but the only one I've seen was one where Elizabeth was played by Keira Knightley. If you found the book too painful to read as well, might as well watch the movie as it stayed true to the book and at least there, the visuals could help you imagine what's it like back in 1800s England, where there were no mobile phones, no airplanes, and each "love" would almost necessarily lead in a proposal.

Some of the characters are very, very irritating. I especially hated the character of Mrs. Darcy and Lydia. Ugh. Could anyone be more whorish? I couldn't believe that their mother would also go so far as to yak her way in influencing her children and who they should marry. Ugh. Such pretenses.

And yes, Mr. Darcy is the quintessential guy that every girl would like to be with forevermore. No wonder there are so many spinoff books that are coming out with Mr. Darcy's character in it [oh, which reminds me, the next book I have to read [aside from the review ones] should be a spinoff book]. My next read would be Me & Mr Darcy by Alexandra Potter. Watch out for my review here once I've finished the book. I looooove Colin Firth's portrayal of Mr. Darcy in Bridget Jones' Diary! [I have to read that book as well].

Overall, I'll rate this book 3/5.
I would have rated it a 4/5 but the "Old" English really irked me off! There are some words I just don't understand [then again maybe my vocabulary isn't that vast?]

Read this book if:
1. You're curious about 1800s England and would want to know how people amuse themselves back then and how people courted each other then.
2. You're a masochist who wants to read novels in "Old" English [like me!]
3. You want to relive your grade school or high school days where you were forced to read classical novels in your English class and have to review them or answer guide questions to pass.
4. You're in for a good love story and want to dream of your own Mr. Darcy or Elizabeth Bennet
5. You have to read it for a book club
6. You're interested in where the spinoff books or movies got their inspiration from.

On other notes, you can win a book from me here: http://rubylovesadventure.blogspot.com/2009/10/book-giveaway-kissing-games-of-world.html
US addresses only, sorry!

Book Giveaway - Kissing Games of the World

2009-10-06T08:36:00.000-07:00

RandomHouse has been kind enough to provide 3 copies of Kissing Games of the World by Sandi Kahn Shelton. This book will be released on your bookstores by November 11th, 2009! [of course, that's the US release date.] Please read on below for the book summary and the giveaway information! So excited to read this book!

Book Summary:

If there’s one point that Jamie McClintock and Nate Goddard can agree upon, it’s that love is overrated. Jamie doesn’t have time for it. Nate doesn’t need it. And they certainly don’t want it from each other.

Jamie, a struggling free-spirited artist, is a devoted single mother who hasn’t been in a serious relationship since her boyfriend abandoned her after their son was born. Nate, a charismatic jet-setting salesman, is widowed and estranged from his father and five-year-old son, Christopher. Jamie would rather glue glitter to pinecones than go out on a date. Nate spends most of his nights wooing his clients. Then one afternoon Nate’s father drops dead of a heart attack. In that moment, their highly guarded worlds collide.

When Nate shows up at his childhood home to settle the estate and reclaim his son, he discovers that Jamie has been living in the Connecticut farmhouse as his father’s roommate. Mistrustful of each other’s motives, Nate and Jamie bicker about everything from children’s nicknames to Jamie’s fashion choices to Nate’s home renovation methods. It doesn’t help that Christopher prefers Jamie to his absentee father.

But after the funeral, Nate and Jamie begin to see each other in a more forgiving light. Nate, traveling to sales conferences all over the country with a sullen Christopher in tow, learns he can’t breeze his way through single parenthood. Jamie, who has moved back in with her sister, wonders at the wisdom of her unconventional choices as a woman with a child to support. And both begin to realize they don’t know as much about love as they thought. Still wounded by past heartbreak and sorrow, can they learn to trust each other and open their hearts?

Giveaway Info:

Sorry guys, but this is open only for US addresses only. For those overseas, you may enter if you have a friend or a relative with a US address who can send the book for you.

Giveway will end on November 10th, 2009, 11pm Manila time, [11AM EST] where I'll draw the entry and post the three winners in this blog! Fair chances of winning, right? Good luck everyone :D

To enter:

- For 1 entry, please comment below with your email address so I can contact you.

- For an additional entry, become a follower of my blog. If you're a previous follower, please let me know in the comments and you'll get the point

- For another additional entry, post this giveaway on your twitter, blog, forum, or as a sidebar. Please also let me know the site where you've posted the entry to :)

Three entries per person! What are you waiting for? :)

Merdeka, Malaysia

2009-10-05T21:38:00.000-07:00

The mosque during my trip last month. Good times.

The 24hour readathon.

2009-10-04T22:51:00.000-07:00

So I found out about the 24 hour readathon sometime early this year, but due to my excessively hectic schedule early this year, I decided to forego it. Lo and behold, they are having another readathon this October 24th!

It starts at 8pm here in Manila, and will end on October 25th, 8pm as well.

Now, I'm not much of a reader. In all honesty I prefer to watch telly shows, movies, and chatting, but then again when I look at the vast collection of unread books at home I realized that now's the time to actually participate and dwindle down some of the unread books I have.

I signed up for both a reader and a cheerleader. I read fairly slow so being a cheerleader will give me a much needed break to just surf and discover new blogs and hopefully new books to read as well.

Do I have a shortlist of books to read during this readathon? Well, I've got a few books that I've read a few pages of that would give me a chance to finish, hopefully.

Of course I wouldn't commit to the whole 24 hours. I need my 9 hours of sleep [its a weekend and I need to get much needed rest for a very busy weekday ahead], 2 hours for Church, 1 hour for lunch and dinner, and 1 hour for doing personal stuff.

So I could only commit 11 hours to the readathon but never mind, it's the thought that counts.

Do wish me luck!

To sign up for the readathon, go to: http://www.24hourreadathon.com/

I encourage you guys to sign up as readers or maybe even as cheerleaders as well. As the post states, you don't really have to commit the whole 24 hours to the event =)

A little meme!

2009-10-03T19:32:00.000-07:00

Figured I'd take a break from publishing a backlog of book reviews & travel updates to come up with a little meme!

**some of my makeup stash**

First off, I love, love, love, love to travel. Yes, I love to travel even more than I love books! My dream destinations are the UK [again] and Italy. One of my dreams is to go on a Eurotrip for at least 2 months, trying to explore every city I go along =) That will make me so happy! I LOVE Europe!

Another love -- stuffed animals and makeup. They make me so happy!

I also love concerts, music, theatre & events. Nothing like being invited in an event. Text or ring me up a day or two before an event and I'd definitely confirm!

**red panda from Ocean Park, Hong Kong**

Next. I love tv shows & movies. Equally as much as I love books! My favourites at the moment are True Blood, The Vampire Diaries and the Tudors. Maybe a bit of Gossip Girl as well.

And finally, books! My preferences are:

1. Books set in England, most specially in London!! There's nothing like imagining what's happening in the book & mixing it up with my own memories.
2.Historical fiction about royalty - Kings, queens, prince and princesses. oh my! The scandal and society!
3. Other historical fiction - what's it like living back then? But I mostly prefer European historical fiction [again, the bias for European stuff]
4. Paranormal - vampires, werewolves, shapeshifters. :D Immortals intrigue me.
5. Fantasy - a whole new world, anyone?
6. Autobiography/biographies - partial to british royalty, personalities, singers & artists. Mostly of the European kind too [except for Nick Carter]
7. Mystery - who killed whom? what's the backstory? I loved Nancy Drew when I was a kid and it passed on until now!

Remember Me - Sophie Kinsella

2009-10-02T19:44:00.000-07:00

Lexi Smart was just an ordinary girl. She's 25, not that pretty, lives in a small flat, and has a loser boyfriend. Until one day, she wakes up, she's 28. She's had an accident and realizes her life is everything she's ever dreamed of: her handbag is Louis Vuitton, has a gorgeous, [not to mention, rich] husband, and is the boss in her department.

Just a catch though. She can't remember what had happened in the last three years of her life: how she met her husband, how she reached the top ranks of her firm. Nothing!

Until a scruffy architect shows up, and turns her world upside down!

Guess that's all the summary I could give without giving away too much spoilers :)

Thoughts:

I initially borrowed this book from a colleague of mine from work. I am a huge Kinsella fan [ie Shopaholic series] and I am determined to read all of Kinsella's works because they are sooo hilarious and fun! Plus, a good dose of chick lit can definitely make your day! But honestly, this book didn't really make me laugh out loud [unlike Shopaholic] nor make me think "awwww....." as I was reading through the book. Jon definitely was an "awwww...." moment but that's it, nothing else.

I loved Eric's character -- he seems like THE perfect guy -- rich, with utterly gorgeous looks, successful. Turns out he has a bit of a square personality so moving on....

Apparently smell triggers a person's memory best! I totally agree with this.

Read this book if:
- You're in a good mood for some light, chick lit reads
- You love Sophie Kinsella and would just devour anything by her
- If you are in a mood to dream and wish what it's like to be one of the ultra fab people
- You're in a mood for a love triangle romance :D

I rate this book 4/5 -- definitely worth the time in reading it!

Humbled.

2009-10-01T19:46:00.000-07:00

Hi everyone!

Just wanted to write a quick note because I saw that Esme posted about our current situation in the Philippines on her blog: http://chocolateandcroissants.blogspot.com/

Okay, just an update for those living outside the Philippines:
Last Saturday, our country was hit by a typhoon [a hurricane to those who live in the US]. We normally have five categories for storms:
Signal # 1-5, which ranges from the wind speed brought about by the typhoon.

Manila was tagged under Signal # 1 last Saturday.

So to residents, it wasn't much of a big deal. We experience typhoons from June till September so it wasn't really that much of a big deal. Until the rains poured in.
It started raining Friday afternoon, and it didn't stop until Sunday morning.

Apparently in a span of hours, the typhoon Ketsana dumped more rain in Manila than Hurricane Katrina & low-lying areas were immediately flooded.

What's scary was that the flood just came out of nowhere. Areas that never experienced flooding before were suddenly filled with water. Water levels rushed up quite quickly, it caught everyone by surprise.

Thankfully we're still okay. Our kitchen got flooded because the grounds outside cannot take the water in anymore, but we managed to get the water out of our house by Saturday evening. The outside of our village was knee-deep in water, and we never experienced that kind of flooding before.

Some friends got stranded, others tried their best to save what they had.

It was a good thing we had supplies of food. We lost electricity for a few hours but it was turned on again, which prompted us to charge our mobile phones and batteries for flashlights.

At the moment, there is another super typhoon that is headed to the Philippines, it will hit the Northern part of Luzon but it is expected to bring rainfall again. And to think that other areas still have floodwaters in the area.

I guess I could say that I am quite lucky. There isn't much damage to our house [except for a door that expanded with the flood water and can't be closed anymore], as compared to what my fellow Filipinos have suffered.

But like everything, we will rebuild and we are thankful that most of us are still alive.

Haven't been reading much books lately, so updates and/or reviews would be posted as soon as I can.

Thank you so much for all your overwhelming messages!

Perfume: The Story of a Murderer. Patrick Suskind.

2009-09-25T20:03:00.000-07:00

It's a stormy Saturday here in Manila as I type this. I was supposed to go to a book club meeting for this book but the weather is absolutely horrible and my house is slowly flooding because of the storm, I might as well just post my insights on the book as I join in an online discussion instead of a real-life one. *sigh*

Anyway, Perfume is a novel that was originally written in Germany by author Patrick Suskind. It is set in France, in the 18th century. A young boy was born with an extraordinary sense of scent. His mother, a young woman selling fish at the market, had tried to kill him, being her fifth child [none of her other children had managed to make it], by abandoning her in the fish guts after she gave birth to her.

Unfortunately, Grenouille cried, making the buyers wonder where the crying was coming from, saw that Grenouille's mother tried to kill him, and thus ended up being hanged to death by trying to abandon her baby.

Grenouille as an orphan was then sent to different nurse-maids, all of which tried to get rid of him because he was drinking more milk than the usual baby, and for some reason, Grenouille had a power to make people uneasy around him. He eventually ended up at an orphanage, and when he was old enough, was sent to a tannery.

Whilst in the orphanage, he realized of his extraordinary gift, and one day, as he was working in the tannery, he began to smell new things in the streets of France. Until a chance encounter with a virgin ended up with him trying to preserve scents, as the virgin's scent was powerful.

Grenouille learned that he had no scent of his own, so he wanted to create the most perfect scent, and decided he should become a perfumer's apprentice to learn the secrets of the trade. From a perfumer, he had learned that the ultimate perfume should have 25 notes [13 notes in the movie version], killing virgin women and eventually concocting a scent that could move the world.

Naturally Grenouille got caught. But he used his ultimate perfume to sway the minds of the people who judged him to think that he was innocent, freeing him. Eventually he went back to his native Paris, where he was eaten alive when he poured all the perfume in him. Errr. Eww.

Thoughts
I've seen the movie and it remained loyal to the book, it did have very slight differences but nevertheless it was true to form.

The book was quite graphic and gruesome. The movie was quite subdued & interesting [then again I saw the movie at a cable channel so they must have cut out all of the gruesome parts]. The guy playing Grenouille is quite cute!

As part of a question in the book club if Grenouille had a hump --> from what I know, Grenouille did not really have a hump, he always stooped and has a bad limp so it may have the impression that he has a hump?

Good book. I loved the historical aspect of it [me being very partial to historical fiction], and the very detailed descriptions of the surroundings in 18th century France.

I'd give it a 4/5 rating!

My copy was bought during the Fully Booked Sale. Quite a pricey book but then again its historical fiction as well, so worth an investment?

Winner of Cleopatra's Daughter

2009-09-15T20:13:00.000-07:00

It's the 16th in Manila, and nearly the 16th in the West Coast of the US so it's time to announce the winner for my giveaway.

Using a random line picker from http://mytexttools.com/Random-Line-Picker.html

The winner of Cleopatra's Daughter is:

I will send you an email later tonight when I get home. Congratulations! :)