I'm the Vampire, That's Why by Michele Bardsley

I don't typically read two vampire romantic comedies back to back, but this had been on the pile for a few weeks so I gave it a shot. Single mom Katie takes out the trash one night, gets attacked, and wakes up a vampire. A paranormal group called The Consortium turned Katie, and ten other single parents in her small town, after they had been attacked by a vampire with some sort of supernatural plague. The Consortium is working on a cure for the plague and buying up Katie's town in order to set up a community where creatures of the night can safely reside. Aside from dealing with her new lifestyle, Katie is also dealing with a hot vampire named Patrick who claims they are soulmates.
This story was cute. This doesn't seem like a series that will get boring because each volume focuses on a different recently turned vamp. I am looking forward to reading book two.

Undead and Uneasy by MaryJanice Davidson

There is something I love about the Queen Betsy series. MaryJanice Davidson has a knack for snappy dialog. This is the seventh book in the series and I still haven't gotten tired of the characters. This one wasn't my favorite but I still liked it. Garret, former fiend, has been feeding the still rapid fiends his blood and they have awoken and are more coherent. Of course, this means they're mad at Betsy for not helping them sooner. The excuse of "but we didn't kill you" doesn't work with them. The other issue in the book has to do with random deaths that detective Nick wants Betsy's help with. I read the book so fast I don't recall a whole lot about that. The plot was lacking, but it's a fun read nevertheless. I don't care too much for the new cover design. I read that they changed because the cartoonish cover was on a lot more paranormal romance and this was the perfect time to change covers since book six wrapped up the first story arc and this is the beginning of a three book story arc. When I see those cartoonish covers though, MJD is the first person I think of. I can understand why they wanted a change, but I do not think this cover reflects Betsy at all. She would never wear a bat necklace like that! She's miss designer shoes and can be somewhat prissy when it comes to her looks. Maybe the next cover will be better!

Debbie Harry Sings in French by Meagan Brothers

I love music so when a character focuses on music it appeals to me. And Johnny loves music. He loves music before he discovers Debbie Harry. When he hears Debbie while in rehab, his allegiance turns to Blondie. This musical turning point is also a turning point in Johnny's life. When he gets out of rehab, his mom, who was a hot mess for years that Johnny took care of, tells him he needs a positive male influence in his life and she's sending him out of state to live with his uncle. I felt betrayed along with Johnny when his sanctimonious mother sent him away. This story is more about Johnny's move or his love of music. It also deals with gender identity in an interesting way. I couldn't wait to give this book to the kids who loved other "issue" novels that featured music such as Heavy Metal and You and Candy. This is Meagan Brother's first novel and I am interested to see what she writes about next.

The Book Review Update of Doom!

I am a horrible blogger. C'est la vie! Here is an update of what I read in June.
Novels:
City of Ashes by Cassandra Clare - I love this series hardcore. It is urban fantasy at its best. The tension between Clary and Jace is explored well. I can't wait for book three, or the follow up series that follows Shadowhunters in Victorian England! She mentions it on her blog.

Vampire Diaries Volume 1 by L. J. Smith - These are the first two books of Vampire Diaries, originally printed in the 90s, published in one volume. I'm glad Brenna kept telling me to read these. They are so fun, and the very end was great. If you read horror/thriller type teen books in the 90s (Richie Cusik, Caroline B. Cooney, R. L. Stine, etc) this will make you nostalgic.

Audrey, Wait! by Robin Benway - Any music geek must read this book about Audrey's rise to fame as the subject of a breakout rock song. I wonder if Delilah has had as many problems as Audrey?

13 Reasons Why by Jay Asher - I could not put this book down. It puts into perspective the consequences of gossip and rumors. Everyone should read it.

Dance With a Vampire by Ellen Schreiber - The fourth vampire kisses book is as fun as the first three.

Manga:
Death Note volumes 9 - 12 - This series is nuts! I love it.

Afterschool Nightmare volume 7 - This is one of my favorite manga series of all time. Read it!

I'll try to keep up from now on :)