Taylor Fenner's Blog, page 145
July 25, 2017
Book Review: The Great Gatsby by F. Scott Fitzgerald
The Great Gatsby by F. Scott Fitzgerald
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Blurb:
'The Great Gatsby' written by American author F. Scott Fitzgerald was first published in 1925. The story is of the year 1922 and characters of this story live in the town of West Egg of the prosperous Long Island. Jay Gatsby is a young millionaire (born in a poor family) with mysterious quixotic passion for the beautiful woman Daisy Buchanan. The story explores the social change with decadence, idealism, resistance to change and excesses. It creates a portrait of the Jazz Age or the Roaring Twenties.
My Review: I can never tell when I read this book whether Nick Carraway truly liked Gatsby at times, or whether he was silently judging him.
The Great Gatsby begins with Nick arriving from the Midwest and reaqauinting himself with his distant cousin, Daisy and her husband. He doesn't yet know Gatsby but soon he will meet him and be drawn into Gastby's fantastical world where everything is fun and nothing is serious.
But Gatsby has an ulterior motive - he's been in love with Daisy for years and wishes to see her again. As the dominoes begin to fall into place a deadly chain of events will be set off and Nick's life and the way he sees the world will never be the same again.
The Great Gatsby is a classic for a reason. It has beautiful lines and a glittering, inviting world that you wish to be a part of. Goodreads and Amazon describe this book as a cautionary tale about the Jazz Era but I don't think Fitzgerald meant it that way at all. I think, in a way, The Great Gatsby was autobiographical to him. The wild parties were part of a lifestyle I'm sure he was accustomed to and perhaps he saw himself in Gatsby and his wife, Zelda, in Daisy; their difference in social stations and ill fated end mirroring and a premonition of his and Zelda's ultimate parting.
Gatsby is my favorite character in this book for his unwavering hopefulness. He truly believed if he made himself into something that he would finally obtain the love of the woman he's infatuated with. Nick, as I said before, I'm not sure about. He seems to like and care about Gatsby at times but at others it's like he's judging him from not coming from the same world as himself and Daisy and Tom. Daisy comes off as an air headed, absentminded fool who as we learn doesn't truly care about anyone but herself and how society perceives her. Tom is the very same way, possibly showing us a glimpse of the rich in that era. I've never truly liked the character of Jordan Baker, she's so wishy-washy. Gatsby is alright as long as he's providing her with entertainment but ultimately she judges him too when she learns of his background and lack of good breeding. And Mrs. Wilson (who's first name eludes me at the moment) is both yet another victim of the destructive tornado that is Daisy and Tom Buchanan and a cruel woman in her own right. Her husband was just a simple minded fool who loved his wife and became a pawn - a means to an end to get rid of Gatsby in the end.
Overall, I really like this book. The parties and Gatsby's dizzying, carefree world are well set and the story is well plotted.
My Rating
4 of 5 Stars!
My Review: I can never tell when I read this book whether Nick Carraway truly liked Gatsby at times, or whether he was silently judging him.
The Great Gatsby begins with Nick arriving from the Midwest and reaqauinting himself with his distant cousin, Daisy and her husband. He doesn't yet know Gatsby but soon he will meet him and be drawn into Gastby's fantastical world where everything is fun and nothing is serious.
But Gatsby has an ulterior motive - he's been in love with Daisy for years and wishes to see her again. As the dominoes begin to fall into place a deadly chain of events will be set off and Nick's life and the way he sees the world will never be the same again.
The Great Gatsby is a classic for a reason. It has beautiful lines and a glittering, inviting world that you wish to be a part of. Goodreads and Amazon describe this book as a cautionary tale about the Jazz Era but I don't think Fitzgerald meant it that way at all. I think, in a way, The Great Gatsby was autobiographical to him. The wild parties were part of a lifestyle I'm sure he was accustomed to and perhaps he saw himself in Gatsby and his wife, Zelda, in Daisy; their difference in social stations and ill fated end mirroring and a premonition of his and Zelda's ultimate parting.
Gatsby is my favorite character in this book for his unwavering hopefulness. He truly believed if he made himself into something that he would finally obtain the love of the woman he's infatuated with. Nick, as I said before, I'm not sure about. He seems to like and care about Gatsby at times but at others it's like he's judging him from not coming from the same world as himself and Daisy and Tom. Daisy comes off as an air headed, absentminded fool who as we learn doesn't truly care about anyone but herself and how society perceives her. Tom is the very same way, possibly showing us a glimpse of the rich in that era. I've never truly liked the character of Jordan Baker, she's so wishy-washy. Gatsby is alright as long as he's providing her with entertainment but ultimately she judges him too when she learns of his background and lack of good breeding. And Mrs. Wilson (who's first name eludes me at the moment) is both yet another victim of the destructive tornado that is Daisy and Tom Buchanan and a cruel woman in her own right. Her husband was just a simple minded fool who loved his wife and became a pawn - a means to an end to get rid of Gatsby in the end.
Overall, I really like this book. The parties and Gatsby's dizzying, carefree world are well set and the story is well plotted.
My Rating
4 of 5 Stars!
July 24, 2017
Book Review: Riot by Jamie Shaw
Riot (Mayhem #2) by Jamie Shaw
Blurb:
When Dee Dawson meets sexy mohawked guitarist Joel Gibbon, she knows it won't be long before she has him wrapped around her finger. No guy has ever been able to resist her … but Dee's met her match in a player like Joel.
Dee's not the relationship type—not after seeing the pain "love" has caused her friends and family—yet she's desperate to make Joel want her more than anyone else. He quickly becomes an obsession, and when a reckless attempt to make him jealous ends in disaster, Dee turns into the damsel in distress she never wanted to be. With her carefree world crashing down around her, the last thing she needs is Joel's pity.
But Joel is suddenly determined to prove he cares, and no matter how hard Dee tries to push him away, he refuses to let her shut him out. Now the girl who swore she'd never say those three little words must choose between guarding her heart and losing Joel forever … or falling head over heels for the tattooed rock star of her dreams.
My Review: Riot is book two in the Mayhem series and is about Dee Dawson (Rowan's best friend from book one) and Joel Gibbon (Adam's band mate).
Dee likes playing games with guys. She gets them to fall for her and then breaks their hearts, vowing to never fall in love after witnessing her parent's disastrous split when she was 11. Falling in love is all wrong, it just sets you up to get hurt. Luckily for her sexy rocker Joel loves playing the field and isn't looking for a relationship. But when a plan to make Joel jealous backfires and makes Dee more vulnerable than ever Joel begins to see Dee in a different light. Suddenly he wants more than casual hookups with her and it scares Dee.
Can Dee allow herself to love Joel back? Or will she let the love and happiness she always thought she never wanted slip through her fingers?
I really, really liked Riot - although not as much as Mayhem. Don't get me wrong, the story was great, I still love the band and their friends, and the sex scenes were oh-so-steamy. I just didn't really like Dee. She actually drove me nuts.
The way Dee felt about falling in love and not letting people get close to her was really sad and it made her seem like a cold-hearted b****. I know she had a raw deal with her mom - but Joel had it worse and he still wanted to give things a chance between them.
That was the other thing I wish we could have seen more of in this book - Dee contacting and having it out with her mom once and for all. I also wonder why Joel would return to his mom's place after all that she put him through.
Overall, this book was a fun, quick, sexy read perfect for fans of rock star romance. I adore the secondary characters like Leti - he reminds me of Lafayette in True Blood for some reason - and seeing more of Adam and Rowan after book one ended was great. I love this series and I can't wait to see what's in store for Shawn and Kit in book three!
My Rating: 4.5 of 5 Stars!
Blurb:
When Dee Dawson meets sexy mohawked guitarist Joel Gibbon, she knows it won't be long before she has him wrapped around her finger. No guy has ever been able to resist her … but Dee's met her match in a player like Joel.Dee's not the relationship type—not after seeing the pain "love" has caused her friends and family—yet she's desperate to make Joel want her more than anyone else. He quickly becomes an obsession, and when a reckless attempt to make him jealous ends in disaster, Dee turns into the damsel in distress she never wanted to be. With her carefree world crashing down around her, the last thing she needs is Joel's pity.
But Joel is suddenly determined to prove he cares, and no matter how hard Dee tries to push him away, he refuses to let her shut him out. Now the girl who swore she'd never say those three little words must choose between guarding her heart and losing Joel forever … or falling head over heels for the tattooed rock star of her dreams.
My Review: Riot is book two in the Mayhem series and is about Dee Dawson (Rowan's best friend from book one) and Joel Gibbon (Adam's band mate).
Dee likes playing games with guys. She gets them to fall for her and then breaks their hearts, vowing to never fall in love after witnessing her parent's disastrous split when she was 11. Falling in love is all wrong, it just sets you up to get hurt. Luckily for her sexy rocker Joel loves playing the field and isn't looking for a relationship. But when a plan to make Joel jealous backfires and makes Dee more vulnerable than ever Joel begins to see Dee in a different light. Suddenly he wants more than casual hookups with her and it scares Dee.
Can Dee allow herself to love Joel back? Or will she let the love and happiness she always thought she never wanted slip through her fingers?
I really, really liked Riot - although not as much as Mayhem. Don't get me wrong, the story was great, I still love the band and their friends, and the sex scenes were oh-so-steamy. I just didn't really like Dee. She actually drove me nuts.
The way Dee felt about falling in love and not letting people get close to her was really sad and it made her seem like a cold-hearted b****. I know she had a raw deal with her mom - but Joel had it worse and he still wanted to give things a chance between them.
That was the other thing I wish we could have seen more of in this book - Dee contacting and having it out with her mom once and for all. I also wonder why Joel would return to his mom's place after all that she put him through.
Overall, this book was a fun, quick, sexy read perfect for fans of rock star romance. I adore the secondary characters like Leti - he reminds me of Lafayette in True Blood for some reason - and seeing more of Adam and Rowan after book one ended was great. I love this series and I can't wait to see what's in store for Shawn and Kit in book three!
My Rating: 4.5 of 5 Stars!
July 23, 2017
Book Review: Caraval by Stephanie Garber
Caraval by Stephanie Garber
Blurb:
Remember, it’s only a game…
Scarlett Dragna has never left the tiny island where she and her sister, Tella, live with their powerful, and cruel, father. Now Scarlett’s father has arranged a marriage for her, and Scarlett thinks her dreams of seeing Caraval—the faraway, once-a-year performance where the audience participates in the show—are over.
But this year, Scarlett’s long-dreamt-of invitation finally arrives. With the help of a mysterious sailor, Tella whisks Scarlett away to the show. Only, as soon as they arrive, Tella is kidnapped by Caraval’s mastermind organizer, Legend. It turns out that this season’s Caraval revolves around Tella, and whoever finds her first is the winner.
Scarlett has been told that everything that happens during Caraval is only an elaborate performance. Nevertheless she becomes enmeshed in a game of love, heartbreak, and magic. And whether Caraval is real or not, Scarlett must find Tella before the five nights of the game are over or a dangerous domino effect of consequences will be set off, and her beloved sister will disappear forever.
Welcome, welcome to Caraval…beware of getting swept too far away.
My Review:Caraval took me much longer to finish than I expected. As one of the most anticipated releases of 2017 everyone kept telling me how amazing this book was and how I absolutely needed to read it.
When I started reading I wasn't sure I would finish reading Caraval. As a heroine I found Scarlett annoying at the beginning of this book. She's so afraid of her father that she's forgotten entirely how to be young and have fun. I also didn't like Tella. She was reckless and stupid where Scarlett was overly cautious and too prim.
I admit, I set this book down. Then I decided to give the audiobook a try and this review will also be part-review of the audiobook. Quickly I will comment on that - this was my first time listening to an audiobook and I enjoyed listening to this story but I found the narrator's voice to be annoying, especially when she tried to throw her voice to sound like Julian, Scarlett, or Tella when she spoke. It made Scarlett sound air-headed and stupid and Julian sound like a sarcastic drug cartel member (haha).
Back to the book - it wasn't until Julian and Scarlett went to the clock shop that I really became interested in the story. It was the main selling point on why I bought the audiobook after listening to an extended excerpt I got when I got this book from OwlCrate in February. I needed to hear more about this dazzling world of Caraval. But it wasn't until Chapter 20 that I really felt like I fell in love with this story.
The world of Caraval is extraordinary and the author's imagination is astounding! I only wish there really were a place like Caraval. The colors, the people, the sights are all described flawlessly and I could easily picture them in my head as I listened to the story night after night.
I loved Julian from the beginning, he was the perfect love interest - loyal, protective, saucy, and just frustrating enough that you wanted to shake him until you found out all of his secrets.
As I neared the ending of this book I kept guessing right along with Scarlett as to how the game would end. Would she be able to save her sister? And just who was the mysterious Legend? Did we meet him during the book and not realize it?
Overall, I enjoyed this book, more so after the halfway point of the book. Caraval is truly unlike any other book. The worldbuilding is fantastic, probably my favorite part of the book overall. It just shines - incomparable to anything else! I know there is going to be a second book, as the ending hinted at more of an adventure for Tella to come, but I can't see the author doing anything more with Julian and Scarlett as main characters. Their story seemed tied up with no loose ends and I hope the author doesn't mess with that.
My Rating:4 of 5 Stars!
Blurb:
Remember, it’s only a game…Scarlett Dragna has never left the tiny island where she and her sister, Tella, live with their powerful, and cruel, father. Now Scarlett’s father has arranged a marriage for her, and Scarlett thinks her dreams of seeing Caraval—the faraway, once-a-year performance where the audience participates in the show—are over.
But this year, Scarlett’s long-dreamt-of invitation finally arrives. With the help of a mysterious sailor, Tella whisks Scarlett away to the show. Only, as soon as they arrive, Tella is kidnapped by Caraval’s mastermind organizer, Legend. It turns out that this season’s Caraval revolves around Tella, and whoever finds her first is the winner.
Scarlett has been told that everything that happens during Caraval is only an elaborate performance. Nevertheless she becomes enmeshed in a game of love, heartbreak, and magic. And whether Caraval is real or not, Scarlett must find Tella before the five nights of the game are over or a dangerous domino effect of consequences will be set off, and her beloved sister will disappear forever.
Welcome, welcome to Caraval…beware of getting swept too far away.
My Review:Caraval took me much longer to finish than I expected. As one of the most anticipated releases of 2017 everyone kept telling me how amazing this book was and how I absolutely needed to read it.
When I started reading I wasn't sure I would finish reading Caraval. As a heroine I found Scarlett annoying at the beginning of this book. She's so afraid of her father that she's forgotten entirely how to be young and have fun. I also didn't like Tella. She was reckless and stupid where Scarlett was overly cautious and too prim.
I admit, I set this book down. Then I decided to give the audiobook a try and this review will also be part-review of the audiobook. Quickly I will comment on that - this was my first time listening to an audiobook and I enjoyed listening to this story but I found the narrator's voice to be annoying, especially when she tried to throw her voice to sound like Julian, Scarlett, or Tella when she spoke. It made Scarlett sound air-headed and stupid and Julian sound like a sarcastic drug cartel member (haha).
Back to the book - it wasn't until Julian and Scarlett went to the clock shop that I really became interested in the story. It was the main selling point on why I bought the audiobook after listening to an extended excerpt I got when I got this book from OwlCrate in February. I needed to hear more about this dazzling world of Caraval. But it wasn't until Chapter 20 that I really felt like I fell in love with this story.
The world of Caraval is extraordinary and the author's imagination is astounding! I only wish there really were a place like Caraval. The colors, the people, the sights are all described flawlessly and I could easily picture them in my head as I listened to the story night after night.
I loved Julian from the beginning, he was the perfect love interest - loyal, protective, saucy, and just frustrating enough that you wanted to shake him until you found out all of his secrets.
As I neared the ending of this book I kept guessing right along with Scarlett as to how the game would end. Would she be able to save her sister? And just who was the mysterious Legend? Did we meet him during the book and not realize it?
Overall, I enjoyed this book, more so after the halfway point of the book. Caraval is truly unlike any other book. The worldbuilding is fantastic, probably my favorite part of the book overall. It just shines - incomparable to anything else! I know there is going to be a second book, as the ending hinted at more of an adventure for Tella to come, but I can't see the author doing anything more with Julian and Scarlett as main characters. Their story seemed tied up with no loose ends and I hope the author doesn't mess with that.
My Rating:4 of 5 Stars!
July 22, 2017
#BookTag Saturday: The Bookstore Book Tag
This Saturday I'm sitting inside avoiding the rain, heat, and humidity to share this week's #BookTag Saturday post. This week I'm tackling...
Book Tag Originally Found On: Basically Britt's Booktube
1. The beginning of your trip you walk into a bookstore and you instantly feel happy: Name a book that has the perfect beginning
Hunting Prince Dracula by Kerri Maniscalco. This book grabbed me by the front of my shirt and held onto me from the first sentence.
2. That sad moment when they don't have the book you were looking for:Name a book that made you bawl your eyes out
Just an Illusion: EP by D. Kelly. Bring tissues! Bring chocolate! Bring vodka! You're going to need it!
3. That moment you're just looking around and find a random book that just speaks to you:Name a hidden gem
Trust by Kylie Scott - such a fantastic book! I can't gush about it enough!
4. That moment you finally find the book that you were looking for:Name a book that you've waited months and months for to be released
A Court of Wings and Ruin by Sarah J. Maas - not sure I've anticipated a book that much EVER!
5. That moment you see a book with a gorgeous cover and you just have to have it:Name a book you bought purely because of it's cover
Uprooted by Naomi Norvik - Plus I needed more yellow books for my Bookstagram!
6. That moment you have to pay a lot of money for your books but still feel very happy you finally have them:Name a book that made you suffer, but you were still happy about it
Paper Princess by Erin Watt - plus Broken Prince & Twisted Palace. They're not kidding when the book says "these Royals will ruin you!"
7. Walking out of the bookstore feeling super happy and excited:Name a book with the perfect ending
The Architect of Song by A. G. Howard - I like how it all came together!
Book Tag Originally Found On: Basically Britt's Booktube
1. The beginning of your trip you walk into a bookstore and you instantly feel happy: Name a book that has the perfect beginning
Hunting Prince Dracula by Kerri Maniscalco. This book grabbed me by the front of my shirt and held onto me from the first sentence.
2. That sad moment when they don't have the book you were looking for:Name a book that made you bawl your eyes out
Just an Illusion: EP by D. Kelly. Bring tissues! Bring chocolate! Bring vodka! You're going to need it!
3. That moment you're just looking around and find a random book that just speaks to you:Name a hidden gem
Trust by Kylie Scott - such a fantastic book! I can't gush about it enough!
4. That moment you finally find the book that you were looking for:Name a book that you've waited months and months for to be released
A Court of Wings and Ruin by Sarah J. Maas - not sure I've anticipated a book that much EVER!
5. That moment you see a book with a gorgeous cover and you just have to have it:Name a book you bought purely because of it's cover
Uprooted by Naomi Norvik - Plus I needed more yellow books for my Bookstagram!
6. That moment you have to pay a lot of money for your books but still feel very happy you finally have them:Name a book that made you suffer, but you were still happy about it
Paper Princess by Erin Watt - plus Broken Prince & Twisted Palace. They're not kidding when the book says "these Royals will ruin you!"
7. Walking out of the bookstore feeling super happy and excited:Name a book with the perfect ending
The Architect of Song by A. G. Howard - I like how it all came together!
July 21, 2017
#BookMail #29
This week's book mail post is a day late but not necessarily a dollar short (unless you count the dollars in my checking account!). My mailbox this week contained...
My Half Price Books Order:
- Stalking Jack the Ripper by Kerri Maniscalco
- Defy the Stars by Claudia Gray
- The Dead House by Dawn Kurtagich
My Book Outlet Order:
- Unforgiven by Lauren Kate
I didn't realize when I ordered from Half Price Books that The Dead House, Stalking Jack the Ripper, and Defy the Stars were all ARCs but it's really cool that they are! I can't wait to read them. (Or reread in the case of The Dead House!)
July Still-Waiting-On:
Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone - Ravenclaw Edition by J.K. Rowling (from Book Depository)
July 20, 2017
Cover Reveal: HARD WOOD by Lauren Blakely
Earlier this morning I shared with you the cover reveal for a YA series, now I'm sharing with you the cover of something a little more... sexier. I'm pleased to help InkSlinger PR and Lauren Blakely reveal the cover of her upcoming novel, HARD WOOD! Are you ready to see this drool-worthy cover?******
HARD WOOD is coming October 23, 2017! A standalone romance told from the male Point-of-View, HARD WOOD is the final hot and hilarious book in the Big Rock series. Pre-order your copy today! Kindle users—stay tuned for the pre-order right before release! And don’t miss the hot, new cover below!
Cover Design by Helen Williams with Photography by
Wander Aguiar Photography
About HARD WOOD: Women often say a good man is hard to find. And a hard man is even better.That’s why I’m quite a catch— good, hard, loaded, and wait for it…I’m ready to settle down too. But the woman I want to pitch my tent with is precisely the one I need to stay far away from.After that fantastic night with Mia Summers, I’m ready to give her many more. But there’s a hitch in my plans — she just hired my company. If there’s one thing I’m committed to, it’s running a squeaky clean adventure tour business. One of the iron-clad rules?Don’t screw your customers.I can follow my own guidelines. After all, it’s only a week-long trip with Mia and her employees over the trails and down the hills I guide them on. I can obey the rules—even if it’s hard in the woods.I’m about to give myself a badge of honor when the storm of the century hits, sending everyone else running for cover, but us—my biggest temptation and me, alone for a long weekend. You don’t screw the client, especially when you’re already in love with her . . .But what’s a guy to do when she’s so hard to resist?
PREORDER YOUR COPY TODAY!
✦ iBooks ✦ Barnes & Noble ✦ Kobo ✦ Google Play ✦ Amazon ✦ Kindle Preorder alert (via Lauren's newsletter) ✦ Goodreads
About Lauren Blakely:
A #1 New York Times Bestselling author, Lauren Blakely is known for her contemporary romance style that's hot, sweet and sexy. She lives in California with her family and has plotted entire novels while walking her dogs. With fourteen New York Times bestsellers, her titles have appeared on the New York Times, USA Today, and Wall Street Journal Bestseller Lists more than eighty times, and she's sold more than 2 million books. In September, she'll release MOST VALUABLE PLAYBOY, a standalone sports romance. To receive an email when Lauren releases a new book, sign up for her newsletter! laurenblakely.com/newsletter
Website
**
Facebook
**
Twitter
**
Newsletter
**
Goodreads
HARD WOOD is coming October 23, 2017! A standalone romance told from the male Point-of-View, HARD WOOD is the final hot and hilarious book in the Big Rock series. Pre-order your copy today! Kindle users—stay tuned for the pre-order right before release! And don’t miss the hot, new cover below! 
Cover Design by Helen Williams with Photography by
Wander Aguiar Photography
About HARD WOOD: Women often say a good man is hard to find. And a hard man is even better.That’s why I’m quite a catch— good, hard, loaded, and wait for it…I’m ready to settle down too. But the woman I want to pitch my tent with is precisely the one I need to stay far away from.After that fantastic night with Mia Summers, I’m ready to give her many more. But there’s a hitch in my plans — she just hired my company. If there’s one thing I’m committed to, it’s running a squeaky clean adventure tour business. One of the iron-clad rules?Don’t screw your customers.I can follow my own guidelines. After all, it’s only a week-long trip with Mia and her employees over the trails and down the hills I guide them on. I can obey the rules—even if it’s hard in the woods.I’m about to give myself a badge of honor when the storm of the century hits, sending everyone else running for cover, but us—my biggest temptation and me, alone for a long weekend. You don’t screw the client, especially when you’re already in love with her . . .But what’s a guy to do when she’s so hard to resist?
PREORDER YOUR COPY TODAY!
✦ iBooks ✦ Barnes & Noble ✦ Kobo ✦ Google Play ✦ Amazon ✦ Kindle Preorder alert (via Lauren's newsletter) ✦ Goodreads
About Lauren Blakely:
A #1 New York Times Bestselling author, Lauren Blakely is known for her contemporary romance style that's hot, sweet and sexy. She lives in California with her family and has plotted entire novels while walking her dogs. With fourteen New York Times bestsellers, her titles have appeared on the New York Times, USA Today, and Wall Street Journal Bestseller Lists more than eighty times, and she's sold more than 2 million books. In September, she'll release MOST VALUABLE PLAYBOY, a standalone sports romance. To receive an email when Lauren releases a new book, sign up for her newsletter! laurenblakely.com/newsletter
Website
**
Facebook
**
Twitter
**
Newsletter
**
Goodreads
Cover Reveal: The Lilituria Prophecy by Grace White
This week I'm helping Grace White, author of the Lilituria Prophecy Trilogy, reveal the new covers of her series. You're going to love these gorgeous new covers...*********
The Lilituria Prophecy Cover Reveal In the run up to the release of the concluding book in the YA Paranormal Romance trilogy, The Lilituria Prophecy by Grace White, the series has been given fresh new look.
ABOUT THE SERIESFor Daiya Cattiva, turning eighteen is a nightmare come true. Once she Awakens, her body will no longer be her own, and she will thirst for physical connection—need it to survive. But the bond is only temporary, and Daiya will be forced to satiate the demon inside her, time and time again. For that is the burden of the Lilituria.
But Daiya doesn’t want to hurt anyone—especially not the cute guy in class, with his annoying charm and fervent persistence. Staying away from Kai Stanton is the smart thing to do. The only choice she has. But when she loses control and kisses him, everything changes, and Daiya knows their connection is deeper than just fleeting lust.
Determined to uncover the truth, Daiya finds herself at the heart of an ancient prophecy that could alter the balance of good and evil forever.
She was never supposed to fall in love, but their love will change everything.
BUY LINKSavailable in Kindle Unlimited Book #1: Awaken AMAZON Book #2: Allure AMAZON Book #3 Ascension**coming Sept 7th** ADD TO GOODREADS
ASCENSION BLURB REVEAL Daiya Cattiva knew loving Kai Stanton had the power to change everything—she just didn’t realize how much. In the aftermath of feeding from Kai, Daiya struggles with guilt, and doubt over the prophecy. But as the Dei Venatores begin to close in, time for Daiya and the Lilituria starts to run out. She knows her personal feelings must be put aside for the greater good, and, with the help of an unexpected ally, she embarks on a journey that uncovers who she really is. But all truth comes at a price. One she isn't sure she's willing to pay. The lines between good and evil have redrawn ... but will love prevail?
ABOUT THE AUTHORGrace White is the paranormal pseudonym of romance writer, L A Cotton.
She resides in the UK with her family, and lives for binge watching series on her Firestick, losing herself in a good book, and reliving her younger days through trashy teenage movies ... not necessarily in that order.
FACEBOOK | INSTAGRAM | AMAZON
The Lilituria Prophecy Cover Reveal In the run up to the release of the concluding book in the YA Paranormal Romance trilogy, The Lilituria Prophecy by Grace White, the series has been given fresh new look.
ABOUT THE SERIESFor Daiya Cattiva, turning eighteen is a nightmare come true. Once she Awakens, her body will no longer be her own, and she will thirst for physical connection—need it to survive. But the bond is only temporary, and Daiya will be forced to satiate the demon inside her, time and time again. For that is the burden of the Lilituria.
But Daiya doesn’t want to hurt anyone—especially not the cute guy in class, with his annoying charm and fervent persistence. Staying away from Kai Stanton is the smart thing to do. The only choice she has. But when she loses control and kisses him, everything changes, and Daiya knows their connection is deeper than just fleeting lust.
Determined to uncover the truth, Daiya finds herself at the heart of an ancient prophecy that could alter the balance of good and evil forever.
She was never supposed to fall in love, but their love will change everything.
BUY LINKSavailable in Kindle Unlimited Book #1: Awaken AMAZON Book #2: Allure AMAZON Book #3 Ascension**coming Sept 7th** ADD TO GOODREADS
ASCENSION BLURB REVEAL Daiya Cattiva knew loving Kai Stanton had the power to change everything—she just didn’t realize how much. In the aftermath of feeding from Kai, Daiya struggles with guilt, and doubt over the prophecy. But as the Dei Venatores begin to close in, time for Daiya and the Lilituria starts to run out. She knows her personal feelings must be put aside for the greater good, and, with the help of an unexpected ally, she embarks on a journey that uncovers who she really is. But all truth comes at a price. One she isn't sure she's willing to pay. The lines between good and evil have redrawn ... but will love prevail?
ABOUT THE AUTHORGrace White is the paranormal pseudonym of romance writer, L A Cotton.
She resides in the UK with her family, and lives for binge watching series on her Firestick, losing herself in a good book, and reliving her younger days through trashy teenage movies ... not necessarily in that order.
FACEBOOK | INSTAGRAM | AMAZON
July 19, 2017
"What I'm Reading" Wednesday #84
Once again this "WIR"-Wednesday I'm reading a few different books. Last night I started listening to Shadow and Bone by Leigh Bardugo on audible and since I finished Riot by Jamie Shaw yesterday, today I'm starting a re-read of...
The Great Gatsby by F. Scott Fitzgerald
Blurb:
FROM GOODREADS:
THE GREAT GATSBY, F. Scott Fitzgerald’s third book, stands as the supreme achievement of his career. This exemplary novel of the Jazz Age has been acclaimed by generations of readers. The story of the fabulously wealthy Jay Gatsby and his love for the beautiful Daisy Buchanan, of lavish parties on Long Island at a time when The New York Times noted “gin was the national drink and sex the national obsession,” it is an exquisitely crafted tale of America in the 1920s.
Why I Chose This Book: It's been a few years since I read The Great Gatsby, probably about a month after the movie came out to be exact and I absolutely love this story. I always feel so heartbroken for Gatsby and such contempt for Daisy. I'm on a no-fantasy ban on reading right now so I thought I'd pick this up for a change.
The Great Gatsby by F. Scott Fitzgerald
Blurb:
FROM GOODREADS:THE GREAT GATSBY, F. Scott Fitzgerald’s third book, stands as the supreme achievement of his career. This exemplary novel of the Jazz Age has been acclaimed by generations of readers. The story of the fabulously wealthy Jay Gatsby and his love for the beautiful Daisy Buchanan, of lavish parties on Long Island at a time when The New York Times noted “gin was the national drink and sex the national obsession,” it is an exquisitely crafted tale of America in the 1920s.
Why I Chose This Book: It's been a few years since I read The Great Gatsby, probably about a month after the movie came out to be exact and I absolutely love this story. I always feel so heartbroken for Gatsby and such contempt for Daisy. I'm on a no-fantasy ban on reading right now so I thought I'd pick this up for a change.
July 18, 2017
{Book Review Tour} Trust by Kylie Scott
Trust by Kylie Scott
Blurb:
Being young is all about the experiences: the first time you skip school, the first time you fall in love…the first time someone holds a gun to your head.After being held hostage during a robbery at the local convenience store, seventeen-year-old Edie finds her attitude about life shattered. Unwilling to put up with the snobbery and bullying at her private school, she enrolls at the local public high school, crossing paths with John. The boy who risked his life to save hers.
While Edie’s beginning to run wild, however, John’s just starting to settle down. After years of partying and dealing drugs with his older brother, he’s going straight—getting to class on time, and thinking about the future.
An unlikely bond grows between the two as John keeps Edie out of trouble and helps her broaden her horizons. But when he helps her out with another first—losing her virginity—their friendship gets complicated.
Meanwhile, Edie and John are pulled back into the dangerous world they narrowly escaped. They were lucky to survive the first time, but this time they have more to lose—each other.
“Heart-pounding, realistic and wonderfully unique, Kylie Scott's Trust held me captive, fascinated, and riveted to the page from start to finish. A MUST, simply incredible, read!” –Katy Evans, New York Times bestselling author of Tycoon
“Trust was an amazing journey that I could not put down! All of my favorite things: young love, a strong heroine, and an absolutely captivating hero, who’s both sexy and bad in alllll the right ways. Loved it!” –Penelope Douglas, New York Times bestselling author of the Fall Away Series
My Review: One night, a night seventeen-year-old Edie ran into the Drop Stop in her pajamas to pick up snacks while her friend Georgia waited in the car, was all it took to change Edie's life. Held hostage in a convenience store by a meth-head Edie witnesses two people get shot in front of her and forms an unlikely bond with John Cole, the guy who saves her life.
Suddenly nothing that bothered her before matters anymore. Having enough of the bullying at her private school Edie transfers to the local high school where she once again crosses paths with John. But while Edie is taking risks and not caring about the consequences John, a former drug dealer, is trying to put his life in order and make something of himself.
As Edie and John become friends and for the first time in her life Edie starts becoming comfortable in her own skin, making friends who truly accept her, and not caring what other people think of her something unexpected begins to happen - Edie begins falling for John.
But is it possible that a guy like John could be interested in Edie? What will happen when John helps her lose her virginity? Will it bring them closer together? Or tear them apart? Can two people from two completely different worlds really make a go of it? Or will life tear them apart?
I love Kylie Scott's books and her indie YA debut was flipping amazing! The story blew me away and I absolutely could not put it down! The tone was a little more serious and a little darker than Kylie Scott's other books but that's what made it even more fantastic in my opinion. Where other authors sometimes falter when diverting from their usual genre/age group/writing style this book absolutely flourished.
I fell in love with Edie, and to be honest, how she was treated at her first school was like looking in a mirror to my junior high days. Being a plus size girl that was often picked on by cruel girls at school I almost feel like I lived that part of her story. I loved how after the situation at the convenience store Edie gets stronger, not allowing anyone to push her around anymore.
John is probably my favorite book boyfriend this year and I loved how he and Edie interacted. The build up of John and Edie's relationship was paced well, and when they went back to John's uncle's house on the night Edie lost her virginity I was practically jumping up and down with anticipation.
I also love that Kylie Scott's books are always filled with just the right amount of humor and I loved Hang and Anders in this book. They were perfect secondary characters and Edie and Hang's drunken texting scene had me literally laughing out loud.
Overall, I am so in love with the book! I couldn't stop reading, not allowing myself to stop until I got to the end. I highly recommend this book to fans of New Adult and YA books because it's the best of both worlds. Trust is a book you won't want to miss!
My Rating:5 of 5 Stars!
Trust by Kylie Scott is available today! Grab your copy:Amazon US | Amazon Aus | Amazon UK | iBooks US | iBooks Aus | Kobo | NookTRUST by Kylie Scott (Official Book Trailer) from FILM 14 on Vimeo.
Excerpt: “You were going to give it up to Duncan Dickerson?” he sneered. “Are you serious?”
I halted, staring at him. This was not good. “How do you know about that?”
“Anders overheard you and Hang talking.”
“Bastard.”
“Well?” he demanded, acting all authoritarian. Idiot.
“To be fair, I didn’t know his last name was Dickerson,” I said. “That’s unfortunate. Though, I wasn’t actually planning on marrying him, so . . .”
“Not funny.”
I shrugged.
“You barely know the guy.”
“Um, yeah. None of your concern. We’re not talking about this.” How mortifying! My face burned bright. People should just gather around and cook s’mores. “I appreciate that we’re friends. You mean a lot to me. But this is going to have to fall under definitely none of your damn business, so go away please.”
“We’re talking about it.” He advanced a step.
“No we are not.” And I retreated.
“You were going to let a complete stranger touch you.” Advance.
Retreat. “People do it all the time. You do it all the time.”
“But you don’t,” he said, taking the final step, backing me up against the side of his car and getting all in my face. “Edie, this is your first time we’re talking about. Isn’t it?”
“Yes, and it’s going to be messy and painful and probably horribly embarrassing and I just want it over and done with.” I tried to meet his eyes but failed, settling for a spot on his right shoulder. “You’re not a girl; you wouldn’t understand. Also, last time I checked, you’re not the gatekeeper of my hymen, John Cole. So back the fuck off.”
He said nothing.
Deep, calming breaths. “Look, someday I’ll meet someone I really like and we’ll have a deep and meaningful relationship and go at it like bunnies. But I don’t want to be the dumb virgin in that scenario.”
He slowly shook his head.
“Also, I do not want to die a virgin.”
“What? What the hell are you talking about?”
“Hey, you and I both know death can occur at any time.”
“This is crazy.”
“I’m seeing a therapist!” I told his shoulder. “I don’t know if you noticed, but I’m a little bit messed up these days. It’s hard for me to trust people. That’s not going to change anytime soon.”
He screwed up his face at me. “Wha—”
“I’m just trying to be practical.”
“Well, you’re being ridiculous. None of this makes sense.”
“It does to me.”
Again, he said nothing.
In fact, he said nothing for so long that I finally looked him in the eye. The anger had left him, replaced by an emotion I didn’t recognize. Worst of all, he still smelled like summer. A little sweat and the open night air, everything I loved. Liked. I meant liked.
“What?” I said, finally.
He let loose a breath. “I’ll do it.”
***
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Kylie is a New York Times and USA Today best-selling author. She was voted Australian Romance Writer of the year, 2013 & 2014, by the Australian Romance Writer’s Association and her books have been translated into eleven different languages. She is a long time fan of romance, rock music, and B-grade horror films. Based in Queensland, Australia with her two children and husband, she reads, writes and never dithers around on the internet. You can learn more about Kylie from http://www.kylie-scott.com/ FACEBOOK | TWITTER | FACEBOOK FAN GROUP | INSTAGRAM | GOODREADS | NEWSLETTER
July 16, 2017
Book Review: Because of Lila by Abbi Glines
Because of Lila by Abbi Glines
Blurb:
Prim, proper, classic good girl, and her least favorite label - icy.
Lila Kate Carter has heard them all. The last one, being the newest. She is not icy. She just doesn’t care for Cruz Kerrington and his spoiled, selfish, careless ways. That doesn’t make her icy, that makes him a jerk!
Tired of being labeled and doing what is expected of her, Lila Kate leaves Rosemary Beach, Florida ready for an adventure. Wanting to recreate herself, find a new path, and become something more.
Eli Hardy is tired of women who always act the same, do the same thing and expect the same thing. He's ready to swear off women until he can get the rest of his life together.
Two weeks into his no-women-rule he meets Lila. She’s so damn sweet and polite. Like she walked right out of an etiquette book. But he’d already been drunk before she walked in so there was a good chance she might not be as stunning and perfect as he thinks. He’s just too drunk to worry about that.
The next morning, he swears he can still smell her on his skin. He just can’t remember why or what happened after that third dance.
Their worlds are about to collide, and so are the secrets and lies.
My Review: Because of Lila is the second book in the Sea Breeze meets Rosemary Beach series and after reading Like a Memory (Nate Finlay and Bliss York's story) I expected this book to be for Lila Kate Carter and Eli Hardy. As I started reading, though, I was immediately drawn to Cruz Kerrington. He was the usual sexy, bad boy that I tend to fall for.
I loved that Lila wanted to leave Rosemary Beach and reinvent herself. She reminded me a lot of her mother in the initial Rosemary Beach series, but I liked her so much better. On the other hand, while I have no real issue with Eli, I didn't like his father Marcus much in the Sea Breeze series so I still don't like Eli very much (and it really didn't have anything to do with him, exactly).
Once I started reading this book I couldn't stop, I literally read this book in one afternoon. Throughout the book, I kept guessing which guy Lila would pick. I'd think "Oh she's definitely going to pick this guy" then a few chapters later my opinion would change, the story keeping me on my toes even until the last chapter.
The secret Cruz was keeping broke my heart and I couldn't believe his father's reaction. He should have been outraged for his son, not blaming him.
In the end, I'm just glad everything worked out for all three characters in their own way.
One thing that I noticed (yet again) was the typos throughout this book. Honestly, at this point, I've read so many of her books with that issue that it doesn't even faze me anymore. I could, however, suggest a computer with spell check or a new editor. That's the only thing that's keeping me from giving this book a full five stars.
Overall, I couldn't get enough of this book. It's definitely in the top five of my favorites by Abbi Glines. I think I even liked it better than Like A Memory. If you're looking for a sexy, contemporary romance that will keep you on the edge of your seat Because of Lila is your book!
My Rating:4.90 of 5 Stars!
Blurb:
Prim, proper, classic good girl, and her least favorite label - icy. Lila Kate Carter has heard them all. The last one, being the newest. She is not icy. She just doesn’t care for Cruz Kerrington and his spoiled, selfish, careless ways. That doesn’t make her icy, that makes him a jerk!
Tired of being labeled and doing what is expected of her, Lila Kate leaves Rosemary Beach, Florida ready for an adventure. Wanting to recreate herself, find a new path, and become something more.
Eli Hardy is tired of women who always act the same, do the same thing and expect the same thing. He's ready to swear off women until he can get the rest of his life together.
Two weeks into his no-women-rule he meets Lila. She’s so damn sweet and polite. Like she walked right out of an etiquette book. But he’d already been drunk before she walked in so there was a good chance she might not be as stunning and perfect as he thinks. He’s just too drunk to worry about that.
The next morning, he swears he can still smell her on his skin. He just can’t remember why or what happened after that third dance.
Their worlds are about to collide, and so are the secrets and lies.
My Review: Because of Lila is the second book in the Sea Breeze meets Rosemary Beach series and after reading Like a Memory (Nate Finlay and Bliss York's story) I expected this book to be for Lila Kate Carter and Eli Hardy. As I started reading, though, I was immediately drawn to Cruz Kerrington. He was the usual sexy, bad boy that I tend to fall for.
I loved that Lila wanted to leave Rosemary Beach and reinvent herself. She reminded me a lot of her mother in the initial Rosemary Beach series, but I liked her so much better. On the other hand, while I have no real issue with Eli, I didn't like his father Marcus much in the Sea Breeze series so I still don't like Eli very much (and it really didn't have anything to do with him, exactly).
Once I started reading this book I couldn't stop, I literally read this book in one afternoon. Throughout the book, I kept guessing which guy Lila would pick. I'd think "Oh she's definitely going to pick this guy" then a few chapters later my opinion would change, the story keeping me on my toes even until the last chapter.
The secret Cruz was keeping broke my heart and I couldn't believe his father's reaction. He should have been outraged for his son, not blaming him.
In the end, I'm just glad everything worked out for all three characters in their own way.
One thing that I noticed (yet again) was the typos throughout this book. Honestly, at this point, I've read so many of her books with that issue that it doesn't even faze me anymore. I could, however, suggest a computer with spell check or a new editor. That's the only thing that's keeping me from giving this book a full five stars.
Overall, I couldn't get enough of this book. It's definitely in the top five of my favorites by Abbi Glines. I think I even liked it better than Like A Memory. If you're looking for a sexy, contemporary romance that will keep you on the edge of your seat Because of Lila is your book!
My Rating:4.90 of 5 Stars!
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