Robin M. King's Blog, page 3
April 10, 2019
The 20 Best Young Adult Books of 2018
I read a lot of books. When I say a lot, I mean that between me and all my nerd friends at LitJoy, we are reading over a thousand books per year! I’ve read the good, the bad, and the ugly. But mostly, I’ve read beautiful books that I love to share with my friends. That being said, you know I’ve done my research. Of all the young adult new releases in 2018, these are my favorites. Most of these were 5-star reads and I can’t wait to share them with you!
1. Once a King by Erin Summerill – A young king desperate to save his kingdom. A girl with magical abilities and a closed off heart. This fast-paced fantasy novel gives readers romance, revenge, a kingdom on the brink of war and a magical society you’ll want to join!
2. Children of Blood and Bone by Tomi Adeyemi – Zélie Adebola remembers when the soil of Orïsha hummed with magic. Burners ignited flames, Tiders beckoned waves and Zelie’s Reaper mother summoned forth souls. But everything changed the night magic disappeared. Under the orders of a ruthless king, maji were targeted and killed, leaving Zélie without a mother and her people without hope. Now, Zélie has one chance to bring back magic and strike against the monarchy. With the help of a rogue princess, Zélie must outwit and outrun the crown prince, who is hell-bent on eradicating magic for good. Danger lurks in Orïsha, where snow leoponaires prowl and vengeful spirits wait in the waters. Yet the greatest danger may be Zélie herself as she struggles to control her powers—and her growing feelings for the enemy.
3. The Wren Hunt by Mary Watson- Once ruled by an ancient magic, Wren’s people–the Augurs–are now controlled by the Judges, set on destroying the Augurs for good. In a desperate bid to save her family, Wren takes a dangerous undercover assignment as an intern amidst those who want her dead. Caught in a web of lies, deceit, and betrayal, she finds herself hurtling towards a truth that threatens to consume her and reveal who she really is. Not only has she come to the attention of powerful Judge Cassa Harkness, but she is also falling dangerously in love with the one person she shouldn’t . . . (You can get the LitJoy Crate of this book here).
4. Dread Nation by Justina Ireland – Jane McKeene was born two days before the dead began to walk the battlefields of Gettysburg and Chancellorsville—derailing the War Between the States and changing America forever. In this new nation, safety for all depends on the work of a few, and laws like the Native and Negro Reeducation Act require certain children attend combat schools to learn to put down the dead. But there are also opportunities—and Jane is studying to become an Attendant, trained in both weaponry and etiquette to protect the well-to-do. It’s a chance for a better life for Negro girls like Jane. After all, not even being the daughter of a wealthy white Southern woman could save her from society’s expectations. But that’s not a life Jane wants. Almost finished with her education at Miss Preston’s School of Combat in Baltimore, Jane is set on returning to her Kentucky home and doesn’t pay much mind to the politics of the eastern cities, with their talk of returning America to the glory of its days before the dead rose. But when families around Baltimore County begin to go missing, Jane is caught in the middle of a conspiracy, one that finds her in a desperate fight for her life against some powerful enemies. And the restless dead, it would seem, are the least of her problems.
5.
Grim Lovelies
by Megan Shepherd – Seventeen-year-old Anouk envies the human world, where people known as Pretties lavish themselves in fast cars, high fashion, and have the freedom to fall in love. But Anouk can never have those things, because she is not really human. Enchanted from animal to human girl and forbidden to venture beyond her familiar Parisian prison, Anouk is a Beastie: destined for a life surrounded by dust bunnies and cinders serving Mada Vittora, the evil witch who spelled her into existence. That is, until one day she finds her mistress murdered in a pool of blood—and Anouk is accused of the crime.
6.
For a Muse of Fire
by Heidi Heilig – The first book in a new trilogy from the acclaimed Heidi Heilig blends traditional storytelling with ephemera for a lush, page-turning tale of escape and rebellion. For a Muse of Fire will captivate fans of Sabaa Tahir, Leigh Bardugo, and Renée Ahdieh. 
7.
Catwoman: Soulstealer
by Sarah J. Maas – Sizzling with action and suspense, #1 New York Times bestselling author SARAH J. MAAS delivers a coming-of-age Selina Kyle who will steal readers’ hearts in a new, highly anticipated YA blockbuster.
8. Sanctuary by Caryl Lix – Alien meets Alexandra Bracken’s The Darkest Minds in this thrilling debut novel about prison-guard-in-training, Kenzie, who is taken hostage by the superpowered criminal teens of the Sanctuary space station—only to have to band together with them when the station is attacked by mysterious creatures.
9. Cruel Prince by Holly Black – Jude was seven when her parents were murdered and she and her two sisters were stolen away to live in the treacherous High Court of Faerie. Ten years later, Jude wants nothing more than to belong there, despite her mortality. But many of the fey despise humans. Especially Prince Cardan, the youngest and wickedest son of the High King. To win a place at the Court, she must defy him–and face the consequences. As Jude becomes more deeply embroiled in palace intrigues and deceptions, she discovers her own capacity for trickery and bloodshed. But as betrayal threatens to drown the Courts of Faerie in violence, Jude will need to risk her life in a dangerous alliance to save her sisters, and Faerie itself.
10. My Plain Jane by Cynthia Hand, Brodi Ashton, Jodi Meadows – Move over, Charlotte Brontë. The authors of the New York Times bestselling My Lady Jane are back with an irreverent spin on Jane Eyre—a tale of mischief, romance, and supernatural mayhem perfect for fans of The Princess Bride or A Gentleman’s Guide to Vice and Virtue.
11.
Onyx and Ivory
by Mindee Arnett – This slow-burning passion and fast-paced adventure YA fantasy novel is about an outcast girl, the boy she loves, and the kingdom that has torn them apart.
12. Suitors and Sabotage by Cindy Anstey – In this charming YA regency romance/mystery, young Imogene and Ben find themselves falling into life, danger, and maybe even into love.
13. To Kill a Kingdom by Alexandra Christo – When royalty from two different realms collide, there will be war, vengeance, romance, and treachery! In this fantasy YA fairytale retelling, nobles with feet and fins are at odds and the hearts of readers will be drawn to the story like it’s the call of a siren!
14. The Queen’s Rising by Rebecca Ross – Debut author Rebecca Ross deftly mixes magic, loyalty, and revenge in this spellbinding YA fantasy about a girl who is thrust into a treacherous plot to overthrow the king.
15. Batman: Nightwalker – Before he was Batman, he was Bruce Wayne. A reckless boy willing to break the rules for a girl who may be his worst enemy.
16. Muse of Nightmares by Laini Taylor – Sequel to Strange the Dreamer! In the wake of tragedy, neither Lazlo nor Sarai are who they were before. One a god, the other a ghost, they struggle to grasp the new boundaries of their selves as dark-minded Minya holds them hostage, intent on vengeance against Weep. Lazlo faces an unthinkable choice—save the woman he loves, or everyone else?—while Sarai feels more helpless than ever. But is she? Sometimes, only the direst need can teach us our own depths, and Sarai, the Muse of Nightmares, has not yet discovered what she’s capable of. As humans and godspawn reel in the aftermath of the citadel’s near fall, a new foe shatters their fragile hopes, and the mysteries of the Mesarthim are resurrected: Where did the gods come from, and why? What was done with thousands of children born in the citadel nursery? And most important of all, as forgotten doors are opened and new worlds revealed: Must heroes always slay monsters, or is it possible to save them instead? If you loved Strange the Dreamer and Muse of Nightmares, check out the shop for all things Sarai and Lazlo, including the
17. The Lady’s Guide to Petticoats and Piracy by Mackenzi Lee – In this highly anticipated sequel to the New York Times bestselling The Gentleman’s Guide to Vice and Virtue, Felicity Montague must use all her womanly wits and wiles to achieve her dreams of becoming a doctor—even if she has to scheme her way across Europe to do it. A must-have for fans of Mackenzi Lee’s extraordinary and Stonewall Honor-winning novel.
18. Obsidio by by Amie Kaufman and Jay Kristoff – This is the third book in the Illuminae Files. Kady, Ezra, Hanna, and Nik narrowly escaped with their lives from the attacks on Heimdall station and now find themselves crammed with 2,000 refugees on the container ship, Mao. With the jump station destroyed and their resources scarce, the only option is to return to Kerenza—but who knows what they’ll find seven months after the invasion? Meanwhile, Kady’s cousin, Asha, survived the initial BeiTech assault and has joined Kerenza’s ragtag underground resistance. When Rhys—an old flame from Asha’s past—reappears on Kerenza, the two find themselves on opposite sides of the conflict. With time running out, a final battle will be waged on land and in space, heroes will fall, and hearts will be broken.
19. Kingdom of Ash by Sarah J. Maas – Years in the making, Sarah J. Maas’s #1 New York Times bestselling Throne of Glass series draws to an epic, unforgettable conclusion. Aelin Galathynius’s journey from slave to king’s assassin to the queen of a once-great kingdom reaches its heart-rending finale as war erupts across her world.
20. A Very Large Expanse of Sea by Tahereh Mafi – In 2002, Muslim teen Shirin hides from the turbulent world through afternoons break-dancing with her brother. Even when she meets Ocean James, who wants to get to know her, Shirin’s not sure she’ll ever be able to let her guard down.
What are your favorites from 2018? Did I miss yours? I’d love to hear what books you think should have made this list!Books=LoveXoXo,RobinAbout the Author: Robin M. King is the author of three young adult novels (Remembrandt Series), devourer of books, and lover of brownie batter and cheesy superhero shows
1. Once a King by Erin Summerill – A young king desperate to save his kingdom. A girl with magical abilities and a closed off heart. This fast-paced fantasy novel gives readers romance, revenge, a kingdom on the brink of war and a magical society you’ll want to join!2. Children of Blood and Bone by Tomi Adeyemi – Zélie Adebola remembers when the soil of Orïsha hummed with magic. Burners ignited flames, Tiders beckoned waves and Zelie’s Reaper mother summoned forth souls. But everything changed the night magic disappeared. Under the orders of a ruthless king, maji were targeted and killed, leaving Zélie without a mother and her people without hope. Now, Zélie has one chance to bring back magic and strike against the monarchy. With the help of a rogue princess, Zélie must outwit and outrun the crown prince, who is hell-bent on eradicating magic for good. Danger lurks in Orïsha, where snow leoponaires prowl and vengeful spirits wait in the waters. Yet the greatest danger may be Zélie herself as she struggles to control her powers—and her growing feelings for the enemy.3. The Wren Hunt by Mary Watson- Once ruled by an ancient magic, Wren’s people–the Augurs–are now controlled by the Judges, set on destroying the Augurs for good. In a desperate bid to save her family, Wren takes a dangerous undercover assignment as an intern amidst those who want her dead. Caught in a web of lies, deceit, and betrayal, she finds herself hurtling towards a truth that threatens to consume her and reveal who she really is. Not only has she come to the attention of powerful Judge Cassa Harkness, but she is also falling dangerously in love with the one person she shouldn’t . . . (You can get the LitJoy Crate of this book here).4. Dread Nation by Justina Ireland – Jane McKeene was born two days before the dead began to walk the battlefields of Gettysburg and Chancellorsville—derailing the War Between the States and changing America forever. In this new nation, safety for all depends on the work of a few, and laws like the Native and Negro Reeducation Act require certain children attend combat schools to learn to put down the dead. But there are also opportunities—and Jane is studying to become an Attendant, trained in both weaponry and etiquette to protect the well-to-do. It’s a chance for a better life for Negro girls like Jane. After all, not even being the daughter of a wealthy white Southern woman could save her from society’s expectations. But that’s not a life Jane wants. Almost finished with her education at Miss Preston’s School of Combat in Baltimore, Jane is set on returning to her Kentucky home and doesn’t pay much mind to the politics of the eastern cities, with their talk of returning America to the glory of its days before the dead rose. But when families around Baltimore County begin to go missing, Jane is caught in the middle of a conspiracy, one that finds her in a desperate fight for her life against some powerful enemies. And the restless dead, it would seem, are the least of her problems.5.
Grim Lovelies
by Megan Shepherd – Seventeen-year-old Anouk envies the human world, where people known as Pretties lavish themselves in fast cars, high fashion, and have the freedom to fall in love. But Anouk can never have those things, because she is not really human. Enchanted from animal to human girl and forbidden to venture beyond her familiar Parisian prison, Anouk is a Beastie: destined for a life surrounded by dust bunnies and cinders serving Mada Vittora, the evil witch who spelled her into existence. That is, until one day she finds her mistress murdered in a pool of blood—and Anouk is accused of the crime.6.
For a Muse of Fire
by Heidi Heilig – The first book in a new trilogy from the acclaimed Heidi Heilig blends traditional storytelling with ephemera for a lush, page-turning tale of escape and rebellion. For a Muse of Fire will captivate fans of Sabaa Tahir, Leigh Bardugo, and Renée Ahdieh. 7.
Catwoman: Soulstealer
by Sarah J. Maas – Sizzling with action and suspense, #1 New York Times bestselling author SARAH J. MAAS delivers a coming-of-age Selina Kyle who will steal readers’ hearts in a new, highly anticipated YA blockbuster.8. Sanctuary by Caryl Lix – Alien meets Alexandra Bracken’s The Darkest Minds in this thrilling debut novel about prison-guard-in-training, Kenzie, who is taken hostage by the superpowered criminal teens of the Sanctuary space station—only to have to band together with them when the station is attacked by mysterious creatures.9. Cruel Prince by Holly Black – Jude was seven when her parents were murdered and she and her two sisters were stolen away to live in the treacherous High Court of Faerie. Ten years later, Jude wants nothing more than to belong there, despite her mortality. But many of the fey despise humans. Especially Prince Cardan, the youngest and wickedest son of the High King. To win a place at the Court, she must defy him–and face the consequences. As Jude becomes more deeply embroiled in palace intrigues and deceptions, she discovers her own capacity for trickery and bloodshed. But as betrayal threatens to drown the Courts of Faerie in violence, Jude will need to risk her life in a dangerous alliance to save her sisters, and Faerie itself.10. My Plain Jane by Cynthia Hand, Brodi Ashton, Jodi Meadows – Move over, Charlotte Brontë. The authors of the New York Times bestselling My Lady Jane are back with an irreverent spin on Jane Eyre—a tale of mischief, romance, and supernatural mayhem perfect for fans of The Princess Bride or A Gentleman’s Guide to Vice and Virtue.11.
Onyx and Ivory
by Mindee Arnett – This slow-burning passion and fast-paced adventure YA fantasy novel is about an outcast girl, the boy she loves, and the kingdom that has torn them apart.12. Suitors and Sabotage by Cindy Anstey – In this charming YA regency romance/mystery, young Imogene and Ben find themselves falling into life, danger, and maybe even into love.13. To Kill a Kingdom by Alexandra Christo – When royalty from two different realms collide, there will be war, vengeance, romance, and treachery! In this fantasy YA fairytale retelling, nobles with feet and fins are at odds and the hearts of readers will be drawn to the story like it’s the call of a siren!14. The Queen’s Rising by Rebecca Ross – Debut author Rebecca Ross deftly mixes magic, loyalty, and revenge in this spellbinding YA fantasy about a girl who is thrust into a treacherous plot to overthrow the king.15. Batman: Nightwalker – Before he was Batman, he was Bruce Wayne. A reckless boy willing to break the rules for a girl who may be his worst enemy.16. Muse of Nightmares by Laini Taylor – Sequel to Strange the Dreamer! In the wake of tragedy, neither Lazlo nor Sarai are who they were before. One a god, the other a ghost, they struggle to grasp the new boundaries of their selves as dark-minded Minya holds them hostage, intent on vengeance against Weep. Lazlo faces an unthinkable choice—save the woman he loves, or everyone else?—while Sarai feels more helpless than ever. But is she? Sometimes, only the direst need can teach us our own depths, and Sarai, the Muse of Nightmares, has not yet discovered what she’s capable of. As humans and godspawn reel in the aftermath of the citadel’s near fall, a new foe shatters their fragile hopes, and the mysteries of the Mesarthim are resurrected: Where did the gods come from, and why? What was done with thousands of children born in the citadel nursery? And most important of all, as forgotten doors are opened and new worlds revealed: Must heroes always slay monsters, or is it possible to save them instead? If you loved Strange the Dreamer and Muse of Nightmares, check out the shop for all things Sarai and Lazlo, including the 17. The Lady’s Guide to Petticoats and Piracy by Mackenzi Lee – In this highly anticipated sequel to the New York Times bestselling The Gentleman’s Guide to Vice and Virtue, Felicity Montague must use all her womanly wits and wiles to achieve her dreams of becoming a doctor—even if she has to scheme her way across Europe to do it. A must-have for fans of Mackenzi Lee’s extraordinary and Stonewall Honor-winning novel.
18. Obsidio by by Amie Kaufman and Jay Kristoff – This is the third book in the Illuminae Files. Kady, Ezra, Hanna, and Nik narrowly escaped with their lives from the attacks on Heimdall station and now find themselves crammed with 2,000 refugees on the container ship, Mao. With the jump station destroyed and their resources scarce, the only option is to return to Kerenza—but who knows what they’ll find seven months after the invasion? Meanwhile, Kady’s cousin, Asha, survived the initial BeiTech assault and has joined Kerenza’s ragtag underground resistance. When Rhys—an old flame from Asha’s past—reappears on Kerenza, the two find themselves on opposite sides of the conflict. With time running out, a final battle will be waged on land and in space, heroes will fall, and hearts will be broken.19. Kingdom of Ash by Sarah J. Maas – Years in the making, Sarah J. Maas’s #1 New York Times bestselling Throne of Glass series draws to an epic, unforgettable conclusion. Aelin Galathynius’s journey from slave to king’s assassin to the queen of a once-great kingdom reaches its heart-rending finale as war erupts across her world.20. A Very Large Expanse of Sea by Tahereh Mafi – In 2002, Muslim teen Shirin hides from the turbulent world through afternoons break-dancing with her brother. Even when she meets Ocean James, who wants to get to know her, Shirin’s not sure she’ll ever be able to let her guard down.What are your favorites from 2018? Did I miss yours? I’d love to hear what books you think should have made this list!Books=LoveXoXo,RobinAbout the Author: Robin M. King is the author of three young adult novels (Remembrandt Series), devourer of books, and lover of brownie batter and cheesy superhero shows
April 5, 2019
Who Made the Best Superman
I can’t stop thinking about him. He’s tall, dark, and handsome. He’s from a foreign land. He has muscles that go on for days. He has a respectable job by day (one after my own little writer heart) and, with the fastest quick-change in history, saves the world whenever it needs saving. There are books and shows and movies everywhere telling his story. He is also the only one I know who can pull off a cape and spandex. And he’s just plain SUPER.He’s SUPERMAN.Yep. I am smitten with this character. He’s my own personal kryptonite. Ever since LitJoy announced that they would be working with the DC Icons series of novels that represent my favorite superheroes, I have been on the edge of my seat. I couldn’t wait to hear who they would be. Last year, Wonder Woman: Warbringer by Leigh Bardugo came out. It was followed by Batman: Nightwalker by Marie Lu and then Catwoman: Soulstealer by Sarah J. Maas. Guess what is coming out this next month?!? Superman: Dawnbreaker by Matt de la Pena is one of the most anticipated reads of 2019 (and the latest book to be included in a LitJoy Crate)! I mean, come on. Superman as a teenager just sounds perfect and gives me flashbacks to binge-watching Smallville (raise your hand if you’ve seen every episode).
But here’s the really important question. Who has made the best Superman? I’m not just talking the best-looking (though, there are some better than others). I’m talking about which actor has portrayed him the best? (I’m not including comics and novels featuring Superman, just because interpretations are too different).Here are the men I think we need to talk about:
Kirk Alyn – Superman (1948), Atom Man vs. Superman (1950)Ok. So maybe Superman’s first appearance by an actor isn’t exactly the highlight of the Man of Steel’s stardom, but it wasn’t really Kirk Alyn’s fault. Alyn was muscular, athletic and a bit graceful too (he used to dance). He made for an energetic Superman, and he played Clark Kent as we all could imagine: mild-mannered and earnest. All the flying scenes in the shows were accomplished via animation. Everything else was all Alyn, including his sprinting around at top speed, tossing bad guys, and leaping into and out of the frame.Oddly enough, Alyn was the first actor who played Superman to realize it isn’t all it’s cracked up to be. He wasn’t even given credit in the serials. They just listed his role as . . . Clark Kent. Poor Alyn. But after several small roles on TV and in westerns, Ayn returned to Superman in cameo form. He played Lois Lane’s father in Superman: The Movie in 1978.
George Reeves – Superman & The Mole Men (1951), Adventures of Superman (1952-1958)George Reeves had several roles before he became Superman, including playing one of Scarlett’s suitors on Gone with the Wind. His stardom really surfaced as he came to be known as the reporter and superhero in 104 episodes on TV. Reeves acting was more seen in his portrayal of Clark Kent, who really won the show over. He wore a padded costume (not unlike the molded Halloween costumes we see nowadays) to make his muscles more pronounced.
Christopher Reeve – Superman: The Movie (1978), Superman II (1980), Superman III (1983), Superman IV: The Quest for Peace (1987)No one can deny that Christopher Reeve made Superman one of the greatest heroes in movie legend. His ability to hide his 6′ 4″ and 225 pounds of muscle, in a nerdy Clark Kent facade, was brilliant too. There was something about the way he played Superman too. Even with the late 1970s technology, Reeve managed to somehow make you believe that he really could fly. Even after four Superman movies, he still managed to have some big roles, including Somewhere in Time. The world was heartbroken when an accident horseback riding made him quadriplegic and even more so when he passed away in 2004 at age 52 of an infection. (Sidenote: He appeared in two episodes of Smallville as Dr. Virgil Swann in 2003.)
John Haymes Newton – Superboy (1988)Superboy focused on Superman’s adventures while he was in college. While the show ran for four seasons, John Haymes Newton only played the hero in the first one. The SuperboyTV show wasn’t for everyone, probably because of sometimes low production values, bizarre scripts (especially in the first season), and some questionable performances. Newton did his best to make the role new, but the first season of Superboy is mostly for the completists out there.
Gerard Christopher – The Adventures of Superboy (1989-1991)Gerard Christopher is often overlooked by audiences, but he put in more hours as our favorite superhero than most of the other actors. He was the Man of Steel (Boy of Steel might be a more accurate term) for 73 half-hour episodes over the course of three years. Mr. Christopher (much like Mr. Reeve) looked like a Superman comic come to life, and wore the most comic book accurate version of the Superman costume ever seen on screen. When the show reached its third and fourth seasons, it really was less about the boy and more about the man, right down to Clark and Lana (remember Smallville?) working in a newspaper-like setting. Christopher fought many comic book accurate supervillains during the show. He even played the clumsy Clark Kent that we all know and love. He was even considered as Christopher Reeve’s replacement for a rebooted Superman film franchise in the early ’90s, and he auditioned for and was chosen for the role for the Lois & Clark: The New Adventures of Superman TV show before the showrunners learned he had already worn the cape and gave the role to Dean Cain.
Dean Cain – Lois & Clark: The New Adventures of Superman (1993-1997)People might make fun of Lois and Clark: The New Adventures of Superman, but when it worked, it worked. The first year of this show’s run showed an accurate representation for what one finds in the Superman comics of the early ’90s as you’re ever likely to see. Also, the genuine chemistry between Dean Cain’s Clark Kent and Teri Hatcher’s Lois Lane made for some real on-screen fun. While Cain’s muscular frame (he played football at Princeton and a short time with the NFL’s Buffalo Bills) wasn’t done any favors by a weird-looking costume, his charming, everyman Clark Kent (who wanted Lois to love him, not his superhero alter ego) was a fresh take on the normal representation of the Lois/Clark/Superman love triangle. If nothing else, Superman fans would enjoy the first season of this show and might even laugh out loud from time to time!
Tom Welling – Smallville (2001-2011)I’m not going to lie. Tom Welling is my personal favorite representation of Superman. Even though the show pretended not to be Superman, anyone who watched the first episode could see the chiseled jawline of Tom Welling, reminiscent of Christopher Reeves. Ten seasons and 218 hour-long episodes make this television show go down in history as one of the longest and most memorable. The unique part about this show was that Welling didn’t put on the well-known red and blue costume and shield until the very last episode, making this version more of a backstory for our well-loved hero.
Brandon Routh (Superman Returns, 2006)Superman Returns might not have been the film that Superman fans were hoping for, but most can agree that Brandon Routh’s portrayal of the Man of Steel was thoughtful and sincere. Routh made Clark Kent just as memorable as Christopher Reeve’s version. He also gave us a more quiet hero in Superman, and it worked for this film. Though Routh hasn’t been back on screen as Superman, he became Ray Palmer in DC’s Arrow television show and then later in the same network’s Legends of Tomorrow.
Henry Cavill – Man of Steel (2013)Anyone who’s anyone has to agree that Henry Cavill looks the part of Superman. His physique, his facial expressions, and his ability to make Superman the altruistic hero he was meant to be, really give all the others that have played Superman a run for their money. Cavill made Superman tough and yet still sincere. He returned to the screen after Man of Steel in Batman vs. Superman and Justice League. Though nothing has been officially announced, there is some buzz that Cavill will play Superman again in another film.
Tyler Hoechlin – Supergirl (2016-2018)Tyler Hoechlin was once a Teen Wolf superstar, but now he periodically plays a superhero on the CW’s Supergirl television series. He is not the main character, but has appearances every once and a while and fans hope to see more. Hoechlin shows us that Clark Kent doesn’t have to be a complete klutz. He can still be the mild-mannered Clark we all love, and confident too. Seeing his interactions with Supergirl (aka Melissa Benoist) brings about some family fun that we haven’t really seen in the Superman storyline.If you read this far, you must either be a HUGE Superman fan (which means you really need to read the newest LitJoy edition Superman: Dawnbreaker book here) or you just think Tyler Hoechlin is super hot. Either way, I love your way of thinking. If you are just a fan of all things superhero, check out the DC Icons Shop for some fun items.
Books=LoveXoXo,RobinAbout the Author: Robin M. King is the author of three young adult novels (Remembrandt Series), devourer of books, and lover of brownie batter and cheesy superhero shows.
August 17, 2018
Young Adult Books: The Remembrandt Series by Robin M. King
You're a seventeen year old with an eidetic memory (basically you recall events like a movie playing in your head with perfect detail). After a tragic accident, you move across the U.S. to the tiniest state of Rhode Island. But you can't run away from your memories. You can, however, run into an adorable boy who makes your heart race and helps you make new memories. Then your Russian teacher starts giving you puzzles to solve and you can't get enough of them. When your Russian trip turns out to be less a trip and more a covert mission, you discover that the basement of your school houses a secret spy organization - one that might give you answers to who you are.
How does that sound? Will you join The Company?
Since all three books in the Remembrandt series are finally out and the 3rd and last book in the series is currently being made into an audiobook by the fabulous Austenne Grey, I figured it was time to post the Remembrandt series covers side-by-side!
I love how well the three covers look next to each other, especially with the updated version of the first cover. I'm so grateful for our model, Marli, and the fabulous photographer, Summer Nicole, who made it all possible!
You can get copies of all the books on Amazon.com or DeseretBook.com. If you want it signed, just email me at Authorrobinking @ gmail.com and I'll make it happen for you. The audiobooks for Remembrandt and Van Gogh Gone are on Audible, but you can download directly from Amazon too. If you're a eBook reader, the publisher just let me know that Remembrandt is only $2.99 and that Van Gogh Gone and Memory of Monet are only $4.99 each! Let me know what you think and I'd love for you to leave a review online too!
Thanks to Hikari (aka Folded Pages Distillery) for this awesome photo of the Remembrandt series.
How does that sound? Will you join The Company?
Since all three books in the Remembrandt series are finally out and the 3rd and last book in the series is currently being made into an audiobook by the fabulous Austenne Grey, I figured it was time to post the Remembrandt series covers side-by-side!
I love how well the three covers look next to each other, especially with the updated version of the first cover. I'm so grateful for our model, Marli, and the fabulous photographer, Summer Nicole, who made it all possible!
You can get copies of all the books on Amazon.com or DeseretBook.com. If you want it signed, just email me at Authorrobinking @ gmail.com and I'll make it happen for you. The audiobooks for Remembrandt and Van Gogh Gone are on Audible, but you can download directly from Amazon too. If you're a eBook reader, the publisher just let me know that Remembrandt is only $2.99 and that Van Gogh Gone and Memory of Monet are only $4.99 each! Let me know what you think and I'd love for you to leave a review online too!
Thanks to Hikari (aka Folded Pages Distillery) for this awesome photo of the Remembrandt series.
August 3, 2018
Book Review: The Windfall App by Teresa Richards + Giveaway!
I love me a good contemporary young adult romance. Throw in some mystery and music and you've got me hooked! I'm so excited I got to read this book by Teresa Richards.
So here's the low-down:
Title: The Windfall App
Author: Teresa Richards
Date: August 2018
Publisher: Evernight Teen
Summary: Marina Berghman is a classical piano prodigy, with parents who’ve had her life mapped out since she was in diapers. But their plan leaves no room for her secret love of alternative rock, or Sean, the edgy guitarist who recently moved to town.
When Marina buys a lottery ticket on her eighteenth birthday via the new Windfall app, she expects it to be nothing more than a rite of passage. But she wins—the grand prize of five thousand dollars a day for life. Suddenly given the means to break free from a life she never felt in control of, she’s quick to cut her family ties and turn her back on everything she knows.
But her lottery win was no lucky break. Her prize comes with strings attached, and Marina soon finds herself at the center of someone else’s life or death game. When she discovers evidence linking her dad to the intrigue, she turns to Sean for help. But he’s harboring secrets of his own.
Now Marina must sort out who to trust and who’s pulling the strings, before her prize turns into a noose.
Maybe because I love music or maybe because I love her writing, Teresa's book was the perfect summer read for me. I think that teens will LOVE it and adults will want to read it in one sitting (which is basically what I did!).
You can get the ebook on Amazon right now and the print version should be available soon (I'll add a link once it's up). But don't forget to signup for this awesome giveaway:
The Windfall App Rafflecopter Giveaway
Also, if you're looking for some other fast and fun young adult reads by Teresa Richards, check out my post on her other books, Emerald Bound and Topaz Reign.
May 31, 2018
30 OF THE BEST COMPLETED YA BOOK SERIES
This is for those of you who have no patience like me.You know what the worst feeling in the world is? Finishing a book and then finding out the next one in the series won’t be out until next year. Don’t get me wrong. I love all the release parties and the hype that comes with a new book’s launch, but I hate the wait!Lucky for you, I’ve done away with the wait. I’ve scoured the interwebs, listened to the reading community, and asked everyone at LitJoy. This list has all best young adult books put out in recent years (most in the last decade) that are complete. They are finished! The last book is available! Though there is always a chance for an author to put out another book or novella in a series, as far as I can tell, the last book in each series will be the final one. That means no more waiting. If you finish book two, you can go right on to book three. YAY!Obviously, we can’t include every series out there, but we included all of our favorites and added some of yours. Each of these books have four stars or higher on Goodreads for the first book and many of them are much higher, especially if you average all books in the series. Many of these are fantasy, some are suspense, some paranormal. We even have a few thrillers, dystopian, and sci-fi to keep you on your toes.Check out my article on LitJoy Crate to see more details about each book!
May 3, 2018
20 Mother’s Day Gifts for Book Lovers
I love my mom. You love your mom. Who doesn't have a book lover in your life? I put together this list of LitJoy Crate (click on the link to see each gift and where to buy it). If I don't already have it, I WANT it.
March 1, 2018
Best Board Books for Babies and Toddlers (Ages 0-2)
I love board books, especially ones that have a good story and kids love too. I put together this list for LitJoy Crate. You can check out this link if you want to read about each specific book.
February 1, 2018
The Best Fantasy Books for Middle Graders (Ages 8-13)
I put together this post for LitJoy Crate and it was so popular that I wanted to share it on my author page.
I'm putting together one soon focusing on female lead in the middle grade genre. Do you have any favorites?
I'm putting together one soon focusing on female lead in the middle grade genre. Do you have any favorites?
January 18, 2018
Marie Lu Brings Batman to Life
(Cue theme music) Duh duh duh duh duh duh duh duh. Duh duh duh duh duh duh duh duh. Batman! Come on. You have to know the original cartoon theme song to Batman, right? Well, if you didn’t, I won’t judge you and your lack of knowledge of everything DC Icons. But, no worries. Because Batman is back and in young adult form. That is, novel form.
Batman:Nightwalker by Marie LuBatman: Nightwalkeris a tale of a teenage Bruce Wayne before he become the infamous Batman. With a compelling and unique take on young Bruce, Marie Lu tells of Bruce’s need to solve the mystery gripping the city after a group calling themselves the Nightwalkers target Gotham City’s rich and elite. After meeting with Madeleine, a very intelligent young woman who happens to be an inmate at Arkham Asylum and a central figure in the Nightwalkers, Bruce has to decide if he has what it takes to save the city and himself.
I don’t know about you guys, but this is the first time I have read anything following a younger version of Batman/Bruce Wayne. I think knowing his story as he was younger gives his character so much more depth and makes me want to go watch every movie I have seen of Batman to see how their stories work together.
If you love heroes and amazing writing as much as I do, you can get a copy of Batman: Nightwalkerin the January LitJoy Crate. And the book is SIGNED by Marie Lu!!! Plus, Marie helped to pick all the items that come with the box to make your super hero dreams come true.
October 7, 2017
Book Review: Topaz Reign by Teresa Richards
I love fairy tales but I'm always on the search for something slightly different. If a book can pull me in like a classic fairy tale and yet still leave me guessing, then I love it even more. Topaz Reign in one of those books. When I found out it takes the classic story of Thumbelina, but gives it a twist, I knew it was going to be something unique and fun.
Before you jump in to Topaz Reign, you should probably read Emerald Bound first (check out my review here). Both books are in the Altered Stones series by Teresa Richards. Emerald Bound follows the story of The Princess and the Pea.
Topaz Reign continues the story of Maggie and Lindy, but with new problems, more romance, and a bit of time travel. I was sad at the end of Emerald Bound when present-day Maggie stays in our world and Lindy returns to her tiny Scandinavian country over 400 years before because I wanted them to stay friends! But, in Topaz Reign, they meet up again because during some of Maggie's research on Lindy's country, she discovers that history is changing. That leads her to realize that the curse she broke of the Emerald Necklace had consequences. Now she must find a way to get things back to where they are supposed to be, all while Lindy has to deal with her country being overtaken by an imposter.
My favorite part about these books is how they take Hans Christian Andersen's fairy tales and turn them into something a little darker (like all the original Grimm stories), but then they still give you that happily-ever-after feeling too. I think the combination of our contemporary world and the historical fantasy part put together give these novels a uniqueness I haven't seen in any young adult books. They are definitely worth the read for teens and adults who love to keep their youth alive.
Don't forget to enter the giveaway to win a copy of the books and more!
a Rafflecopter giveaway
