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THE YOUNG ELITES GIVEAWAY

Happy Monday Everyone! Hope you're having a great start to the week. I am so very sorry that I did not visit all your blogs last week. But with work, applying for jobs, and a busy swim captain mom week, I ran out of time. This weekend was the swim championships and it was so much fun watching all the girls drop time. Some of them who still had slower times dropped 10 seconds. And Anna Li has a fantastic weekend. She dropped time in her individuals both days and both relays she was on came in 2nd! She's on the state team and in two more weeks she'll finish her swimming career. We're enjoying everything now, but both of us are ready for her to move on.

FOLLOWER NEWS

Sharon Mayhew has started a manuscript editing service. Stop by her blog to learn more and to enter for a chance to win a critique.

I have a few winners to announce.


The winner of The Heir Chronicles is Abby!

And the winner of COMPULSION is C. Lee McKenzie!

Congrats! E-mail me your address so I can send your books to you. Please e-mail me by the end of Wednesday or I'll have to pick another winner.

Today I'm thrilled to share THE YOUNG ELITES, the first book in Marie Lu's new series. Here's a blurb from Goodreads:

I am tired of being used, hurt, and cast aside.

Adelina Amouteru is a survivor of the blood fever. A decade ago, the deadly illness swept through her nation. Most of the infected perished, while many of the children who survived were left with strange markings. Adelina’s black hair turned silver, her lashes went pale, and now she has only a jagged scar where her left eye once was. Her cruel father believes she is a malfetto, an abomination, ruining their family’s good name and standing in the way of their fortune. But some of the fever’s survivors are rumored to possess more than just scars—they are believed to have mysterious and powerful gifts, and though their identities remain secret, they have come to be called the Young Elites.

Teren Santoro works for the king. As Leader of the Inquisition Axis, it is his job to seek out the Young Elites, to destroy them before they destroy the nation. He believes the Young Elites to be dangerous and vengeful, but it’s Teren who may possess the darkest secret of all.

Enzo Valenciano is a member of the Dagger Society. This secret sect of Young Elites seeks out others like them before the Inquisition Axis can. But when the Daggers find Adelina, they discover someone with powers like they’ve never seen.

Adelina wants to believe Enzo is on her side, and that Teren is the true enemy. But the lives of these three will collide in unexpected ways, as each fights a very different and personal battle. But of one thing they are all certain: Adelina has abilities that shouldn’t belong in this world. A vengeful blackness in her heart. And a desire to destroy all who dare to cross her.

It is my turn to use. My turn to hurt.


Wow! I already loved Marie Lu as an author and now I'm even more of a fan. Marie has branched out into fantasy in this story and does not disappoint.

I loved the world building where the Young Elites have special magical powers caused by an illness and are persecuted for it. I'm always pulled into stories where the characters are fighting discrimination. And the Young Elites all have different, very interesting powers, which I enjoyed.

Adelina is a dark, but sympathetic character. I read that Marie Lu was trying to create a Darth Vader type character in Adelina. She's suffered a terrible life so we can understand where her darkness comes from. And it's tempered by her devotion to her sister who she is trying to save.

This is a fast paced story. I don't seem to be reading as fast these days so it's saying even more when I find a book that hooks me. I read this in a few days. And there were plot twists and revelations I didn't see coming.

Marie Lu's publisher, G.P. Putnam's Sons Books for Young Readers generously donated an ARC of THE YOUNG ELITES for a giveaway. 
To enter, all you need to do is be a follower (just click the follow button if you’re not a follower) and leave a comment through November 29th. I’ll announce the winner on December 1st. If your e-mail is not on your Google Profile, please leave it in the comments.

If you mention this contest on Twitter, Facebook, or your blog, mention this in the comments and I'll give you an extra entry. This is for US and Canada.

Here’s what’s coming up:

On Friday I’m participating in the Gratitude Giveaway Blog Hop.

And the following Monday I’ll have a guest post by debut author Jennifer Torres and giveaway of THE DISAPPEARING, her MG sci-fi mystery.

I’ll be off the Monday after that. I know it’ll be quiet with the Thanksgiving holiday coming up.

The following Monday (Dec 1st) I have a guest post by debut author Jaye Robin Brown and a giveaway of NO PLACE TO FALL, her YA Contemporary.

Hope to see you on Friday!

70 comments:

Beth said...

Congratulations to Anna Li! Sounds like she's doing wonderfully on the swim team. I know its been intense for both of you, but I'm sure you'll miss it a little when it's done.

And congratulations to Marie, too - this sounds like a great book.

Karen Lange said...

Wishing Marie all the best! Thanks for the intro and information. Sounds like an interesting story.

Congrats to Anna Li! Sounds like it's been fun. I understand being ready to move on though. Good things ahead for you both..

I'll pass on the giveaway this time around. Have a great week!

Dianne K. Salerni said...

Congratulations to Anna Li! How exciting!

Creating a female Darth Vader type character? Wow, that's quite a challenge. I'll throw my name in for the giveaway. This doesn't seem quite my thing, but my younger daughter is a Marie Lu fan and would love it!

Christina Fiorelli said...

LOVE how she's made a heroine (usally it's a guy) a dark character who's still sympathetic. It's important to find the main character likable, at least to me.

I've heard the world seems like it's historical but she's turned it all on its head with all the magic she's infused it with!

thank you so very much :)

Lovely review :)

GFC Christina Kit.

email subscriber ccfioriole at gmail dot com

Christina Fiorelli said...

I tweeted https://twitter.com/christinafiorio/status/531804104855916544

GFC Christina Kit.

email subscriber ccfioriole at gmail dot com

thank you so very much :)

Joni said...

I loved Marie Lu's other series- and I can't wait to see her work fantasy! Thanks for the giveaway! ^^

blacklaceblonde (at) yahoo (dot) com

L. Diane Wolfe said...

It sounds like a great story.

Robyn Campbell said...

YaY Anna Li!! WAHOO! Natalie, I can imagine how hectic it has been. I know you'e proud, though. Way to go you two!

What a fantastic story! The cover is awesome. Good luck, Marie.

Congrads to the winners.

Brenda said...

Young Elites has an awesome cover, I'll be picking it up, so no need to enter me. Congratulations to Anna Li!! Hope things are going well on the job front. Have a wonderful week.

Alex J. Cavanaugh said...

Second place in the race is great!
A Darth Vader like character - that's tough to pull off well.

Betsy Perez said...

I completely fell in love with Maire Lu's Legend trilogy and I am so excited for the chance to read The Young Elites. I follow through GFC and email---> pbetsy95@gmail.com
Tweeted here-------> https://twitter.com/silentangel72/status/531842744679792640

Thanks so much for the giveaway!

Eileen said...

I've heard great things about this one. Thanks for the giveaway :D

Unknown said...

This sounds like an amazing book!
And the author is so Famous, so duh!
GREAT review
Your reader,
Soma R.
http://insomnia-of-books.blogspot.com/

J Lenni Dorner said...

Mentioned on Twitter and Facebook.
Sounds like a great book. I LOVE that cover.

Unknown said...

I loved the Legend trilogy, I'm sure I'll love this book as well! Her writing is just beautiful! Thanks so much for the giveaway!

Cherie Reich said...

The Young Elites sounds so good!

M Pax said...

Lots of great stuff going on this story. Sounds great!

Joanne R. Fritz said...

Congrats to Anna Li on doing so well in her individuals and finishing 2nd in the relays. And on being a member of the state team. That's fantastic.

Marie Lu's other books were so fast-paced it took my breath away, so I can imagine this is the same.

Jemi Fraser said...

Anna Li has enjoyed a great swimming career - good for her :)

The Elites sound like an intriguing group of individuals - definitely looking forward to this one :)

holdenj said...

I am excited to read Lu's new book, I loved the Legend series. Congrats to Anne Li on the swimming accolades!
JHolden955(at)gmail(dot)com

Anonymous said...

This is on my wishlist and I'm dying to read it.
kbaby81(dot)lt(at)gmail(dot)com

Christine Rains said...

Enjoy the last days of swimming! And good luck! Congratulations to Marie. The book sounds fantastic. :)

mshatch said...

Congrats to the winners and to Anna Li. Impressive!

Unknown said...

This sounds fabulous! Congrats to your daughter on her great swim times. Have a lovely week. :)

Laurie McKay said...

Happy Monday! Congrats to Anna Li for her swimming :)

I'm looking forward to reading this. I like the idea of a Darth Vader type heroine. Can't wait!

Tabby Williams said...

Thanks for the giveaway~

juliaquinnfan07@gmail.com

DMS said...

This sounds like a fascinating book! I am definitely curious about it! Thanks for sharing. :) Glad you enjoyed it so much!
~Jess

Rosi said...

The swimming competition sounds like a lot of fun. Congrats to your daughter on new personal bests! That's great. This book sounds terrific, but I am so overloaded right now, I think I'll pass on the drawing.

Unknown said...

I follow by email: wallace71(at)mctc(dot)com

Thanks for the giveaway!! :)

Valerie Bodden said...

Absolutely love Marie Lu. She's so great at creating unique, compelling voices. Thanks for the review and the giveaway!
valbodden(at)gmail(dot)com

Unknown said...

It sounds like a great story.

Anonymous said...

I follow by email: siobhandavis2014@gmail.com And I'm very excited to read the Young Elites, all the reviews look great.

LSpeers said...

This one is on my wish list! lcspeers@gmail.com

Unknown said...

SO EXCITED for this one :D

Donna K. Weaver said...

Marie has a new book out? Awesome. Love the cover!

Andrea Mack said...

Congrats to Anna Li and her swimming accomplishments!

The Young Elites sounds interesting!

Anita Saxena said...

Congratulations to Anna Li! Woot! Woot!
Can't wait to read the Young Elites!
productofanillusion at gmail dot com

Danielle H. said...

I've been reading about this book on many blogs and it does sound like a page turner! And with the weather turning colder, finding an exciting read to snuggle up with is the best. I will share on Facebook.

Kel said...

Congrats on the great swimming season!

A Darth Vader-like character definitely has me intrigued. Thanks for the great giveaway!

Bookedtiltuesday (at) gmail (dot) com

Vanessa Morgan said...

Loving the cover for The Young Elites.

erin said...

Thank you for the fun post and giveaway!!
I follow by bloglovin and email :)
efender1(at)gmail

Anonymous said...

I'm so excited to read about a "villainous"-ish character! I'm kirabauthor@gmail.com and I will share in my blog newsletter.

Bookworm85 said...

I really enjoyed Marie Lu's Legend series, and I was excited to hear they're doing a movie version. This new series sounds equally wonderful, and I can't wait to read it!

Sharon K. Mayhew said...

Wow! The Young Elites sounds wonderful.

I'm so happy to hear that Anna Li is doing well. It sounds like you are super busy. I'm crossing my fingers and toes for you on finding the right job.

Congratulations to C. Lee and Abby!

Thanks for the shout out. You are the best!

Tyrean Martinson said...

Wow! Sounds like an exciting read! My daughter read your post over my shoulder and agrees. We've been enjoying your book recommendations together. :)

Congrats to C. Lee and Abby!

And way to go, Anna Li!!! Dropping time and getting second place is awesome! She must have a great mom-coach-encourager. :)
Best wishes on all your job, activity, and family endeavors!!!

Unknown said...

I'm not reading as fast these days, either, mostly because it's so hard to find those books that grab me by the throat and yank me into the story. I've really been looking forward to reading this particular book and would love to win a copy. I enjoyed your review tremendously. michelle_willms at yahoo dot com

Susan T. said...

I've heard so much about The Young Elites being dark and twisty. Your review clinches it for me. I must have it! :)

Susan T. said...

Shared on Twitter: https://twitter.com/suekitty13/status/532283430697172994

jpetroroy said...

I love her books!

Unknown said...

I loved Marie Lu since she wrote the Legend series and I cannot wait to read this!!!!!!!!! Thanks for the chance to win! :)

Kimberly Gabriel said...

Congrats to Anna Li and good luck to you in the application process. I love the idea of the "Dagger Society" - very dark and mysterious!

Carina Olsen said...

Yay for another amazing post. <3 I really loved The Young Elites :D Such an amazing book. <3 Just wanted to say that you are awesome, and that this giveaway is amazing, even though I cannot enter it :)

Unknown said...

Thanks for another great giveaway! I haven't read any Marie Lu books but I've heard great reviews (:
Beas.lupe1@gmail.com

Stephanie Garber said...

This book sounds great! Thanks for such an awesome giveaway, Natalie!

Jamie Coudeville said...

GFC: Jamie Coudeville
email: jamie.coudeville@gmail.com

ShainaJo said...

Squee!!!!! :D (morbid_chik89@yahoo.com)

Anonymous said...

I'm so in love with Marie Lu's Legend series - I can't wait to read the new one!!!

Rachna Chhabria said...

Congrats to Anna Li for her swimming achievements. I have heard about Marie Lu's series. Will add them to my TBR list.

Alisha S. said...

I'm following on Bloglovin.

This book has been on my wish list. Thanks for the giveaway!
sienkiel1821 at yahoo dot com

Melodie Wright said...

Sounds like a lot of fun. Thanks for the giveaway!

Renee G said...

this sounds great. I follow as Renee G on GFC

Unknown said...

Hi Literary Rambles! Thank you so much for this amazing giveaway! I'm a huge fan of Marie Lu. I fell in love with her Legend Trilogy. It was absolutely one of my all time favorite book series that I've ever read. The fact that she made another book made me so excited because I knew it was going to be another awesome book. I read the synopsis of the book and I was hooked from the start. It made me want to jump into the story. I'm looking forward to Adelina, Teren, and Enzo's journey. I've heard so many people raving about this book and saying how it was incredibly intense with a dark twist. As a lover of all things that Marie Lu creates, I truly thank you for this opportunity for this chance to read The Young Elites! :)

Follow via:
1. GFC - Michelle Lee
2. Bloglovin' - http://www.bloglovin.com/michellelee210

Tweeted: https://twitter.com/Me_chelleLee/status/533712662094680064

contact email: xxxcveaglesxxx@yahoo.com

Unknown said...

all 3 books look good! thanks! my email is wintershade2@gmail.com

Emily R. King said...

I can't wait to read this! It'd high on my TBR list. Thanks for the giveaway!
erittelking at gmail.com

Molly Mortensen said...

I follow with Bloglovin http://www.bloglovin.com/mollymortensen

Thank you for the giveaway! What a great book!

molly.mortensen at gmail

Diane Elizabeth said...

Looking forward to reading this one. I follow on GFC - Diane elfgurl3 (at) yahoo (dot) com

magic5905 said...

I follow on gfc-magic5905
magic5905 at embarqmail dot com

Holly Letson said...

I have yet to read any of her books, so this could be a chance. Thanks
BL: Holly Letson
GFC: Holly Letson

bookaholicholly at gmail dot com

Shared:
https://www.facebook.com/KinomiyaMichiru/posts/10152960128658825
https://twitter.com/KinomiyaMichiru/status/537825859327913984

Unknown said...

Thanks for the chance! I follow in bloglovin: Josy15love
email: Josy15love@gmail.com

Penelope Sanchez said...

THE YOUNG ELITES is a MUST READ for any supernatural/dystopian fan out there. If you want a book that will WOW the pants off of you, THE YOUNG ELITES is it!! It will not disappoint and leave you yearning for more!!

Mariz
onestopbuy.com