Taylor Fenner's Blog, page 157
January 22, 2017
Book Review: Unknown by Wendy Higgins
Unknown (Unknown Series #1) by Wendy Higgins
Blurb:
Amber Tate believes the worst thing she’ll suffer in life is dealing with the unrequited love she feels for her brother’s best friend, Rylen Fite. She also believes war is something unfortunate that happens places far, far away from her rural Nevada town. She’s wrong on both counts.
When an unknown organization meticulously bombs major cities in the United States and across the globe, a trickle-down effect spreads to remaining towns at an alarming speed—everything from food and water sources to technology and communications are compromised. Without leadership, the nation is split between paralysis and panic, but Amber isn’t one to hide or watch helplessly. She’s determined to put her nursing skills to use, despite the danger, even if it means working alongside the man she can never have.
My Review: As Unknown opens, we meet the Bahntan, a creature who's people plan on destroying the world's civilization, purging the world of billions of people, and turning humans into slaves. The leader is torn, but ultimately knows what he has to do.
Part one of Unknown tells of the before, where we meet the heroine, Amber Tate; her brother Jacob "Tater" Tate, Amber's best friend, Remy, and Amber's brother's best friend, Rylen - whom Amber has been hopelessly in love with since they were children. We watch as Amber, Tater, Remy, and Rylen grow up, facing problems that at the time seem terrible - until the day that an unknown, anonymous organization bomb film studios and family-oriented amusement parks all over the country and the world. In an instant everything changes. Tater and Rylen decide to enlist in the Army and Air Force. Over the next few years, Amber keeps in constant contact with Rylen through letters and emails, harboring her secret feelings for him and hoping that one day he'll see her as more than just a sister-figure. But her hopes are dashed the day Rylen comes home - with a major surprise.
With her heart already in shambles, Amber - and her loved ones - are about to face an even greater tragedy than the previous bombings. Cities all over the world are bombed, some wiped out completely, world leaders and thousands of people are killed, and life as Amber and her family know it will never be the same.
Who is behind the attacks? What do they want? In a world destroyed, who can you trust? Is the senator that seems to take over after the attacks really working in the people's best interest? Or are he and the DRI working together toward a more sinister goal?
Wendy Higgins has done it again! Her amazing writing has gotten me to fall in love with a book way out of my genre comfort zone. The story grabbed me from the beginning and turned out to be a lot different than what I expected it to be, in a good way.
I loved the way the story was plotted out: the Prologue giving the reader a taste of what was to come, then the first part of the book that gets the reader to fall in love with the characters and their normal lives, their everyday struggles, then leading the reader into the day that will change everything for the characters. Part two was all about the action, where we learn what the characters are made of and who they'll become after the worst happens, giving them each greater depth.
I loved Amber and could relate to her crush on Rylen - who was so sexy, but I found myself wanting to strangle him throughout the book. I mean really! How blind can one guy be? All of Amber's family were fantastic characters and I thought they fit well into the story. Despite being a really sweet character I seriously hated Livia, and as for the senator and the DRI, I questioned their motives from the get-go.
Overall, I am so glad that I stepped out of my comfort zone and gave Unknown a chance! I just can't believe I waited this long to give it a chance. The hints of romance in Unknown were heartbreaking and the action made my pulse race. I loved it from the first page and I can't wait to see how the story continues in Unrest.
My Rating:5 of 5 Stars!
Blurb:
Amber Tate believes the worst thing she’ll suffer in life is dealing with the unrequited love she feels for her brother’s best friend, Rylen Fite. She also believes war is something unfortunate that happens places far, far away from her rural Nevada town. She’s wrong on both counts.When an unknown organization meticulously bombs major cities in the United States and across the globe, a trickle-down effect spreads to remaining towns at an alarming speed—everything from food and water sources to technology and communications are compromised. Without leadership, the nation is split between paralysis and panic, but Amber isn’t one to hide or watch helplessly. She’s determined to put her nursing skills to use, despite the danger, even if it means working alongside the man she can never have.
My Review: As Unknown opens, we meet the Bahntan, a creature who's people plan on destroying the world's civilization, purging the world of billions of people, and turning humans into slaves. The leader is torn, but ultimately knows what he has to do.
Part one of Unknown tells of the before, where we meet the heroine, Amber Tate; her brother Jacob "Tater" Tate, Amber's best friend, Remy, and Amber's brother's best friend, Rylen - whom Amber has been hopelessly in love with since they were children. We watch as Amber, Tater, Remy, and Rylen grow up, facing problems that at the time seem terrible - until the day that an unknown, anonymous organization bomb film studios and family-oriented amusement parks all over the country and the world. In an instant everything changes. Tater and Rylen decide to enlist in the Army and Air Force. Over the next few years, Amber keeps in constant contact with Rylen through letters and emails, harboring her secret feelings for him and hoping that one day he'll see her as more than just a sister-figure. But her hopes are dashed the day Rylen comes home - with a major surprise.
With her heart already in shambles, Amber - and her loved ones - are about to face an even greater tragedy than the previous bombings. Cities all over the world are bombed, some wiped out completely, world leaders and thousands of people are killed, and life as Amber and her family know it will never be the same.
Who is behind the attacks? What do they want? In a world destroyed, who can you trust? Is the senator that seems to take over after the attacks really working in the people's best interest? Or are he and the DRI working together toward a more sinister goal?
Wendy Higgins has done it again! Her amazing writing has gotten me to fall in love with a book way out of my genre comfort zone. The story grabbed me from the beginning and turned out to be a lot different than what I expected it to be, in a good way.
I loved the way the story was plotted out: the Prologue giving the reader a taste of what was to come, then the first part of the book that gets the reader to fall in love with the characters and their normal lives, their everyday struggles, then leading the reader into the day that will change everything for the characters. Part two was all about the action, where we learn what the characters are made of and who they'll become after the worst happens, giving them each greater depth.
I loved Amber and could relate to her crush on Rylen - who was so sexy, but I found myself wanting to strangle him throughout the book. I mean really! How blind can one guy be? All of Amber's family were fantastic characters and I thought they fit well into the story. Despite being a really sweet character I seriously hated Livia, and as for the senator and the DRI, I questioned their motives from the get-go.
Overall, I am so glad that I stepped out of my comfort zone and gave Unknown a chance! I just can't believe I waited this long to give it a chance. The hints of romance in Unknown were heartbreaking and the action made my pulse race. I loved it from the first page and I can't wait to see how the story continues in Unrest.
My Rating:5 of 5 Stars!
January 20, 2017
Book Review: Redeeming Kyle by Zoey Derrick
Redeeming Kyle (69 Bottles #3) by Zoey Derrick
Blurb:
Falling in love was the easy part…
For Talon Carver, the commanding and charismatic lead singer of the rock band 69 Bottles, life has never been better—or worse. His heart’s at a full 11 for Addison Beltrand, his feisty PR rep. But admitting it was a much different tune. The dilemma’s even more complicated when adding his other lover to the mix: Kyle Black, the band’s handsome, sweet and sexy manager.
Why ruin a good thing, right? Things are pretty damn perfect for the trio—in and out of bed. But just when they find their best rhythm with each other, a rocky night in Minneapolis forces all three to reexamine their feelings—and take their relationship to new levels.
But can love be enough?
The band’s soaring popularity, along with the pressures of maintaining an unconventional relationship on a high-profile rock tour, start to take their toll. When Addison starts to fall apart, Talon and Kyle must come to terms with how important she is to them both.
Can Addison find the strength to be their glue once more?
What happens when the world goes on…but yours suddenly stops?
When everything looks like it’s going to fall apart? Is love enough to bring Talon, Kyle, and Addison back to each other’s arms…and with it, the magic that true redemption can bring?
My Review: Just when things are going back to normal between the trio after Talon and Addison's fight in Minneapolis, a major surprise turns the trio's lives upside down. Suddenly it isn't just about them and what they want and ready or not nothing will be the same again.
As Addison, Talon, and Kyle navigate the changes coming at them one after another they must decide if they are in it for the long haul, or if they truly aren't mean to last forever.
I liked Redeeming Kyle much better than Craving Talon in certain ways. The changes in the trio's lives wasn't unexpected, especially when the end of book two hinted at what was to come but I loved watching all three characters learn how to deal with their unexpected surprise and grow up a little more.
I kind of wished at one point that Talon and Addison would ditch Kyle - because of how he was acting - and just become a twosome but I liked how the author smoothed everything out between them all, even if it wasn't realistic. The only things I didn't like about this book were the way it was written in certain places, almost like the author/narrator was telling the story as if you were gossiping to a friend. It just felt wrong to me, and I did notice sections like that in Craving Talon as well. Also, as the author does go on to write Dex and Raine and Mouse and Peacock's stories in the other three books in the series I hated that the author kind of fast-forwarded in the end telling not just what was happening in Kyle, Talon, and Addison's futures, but the other band members as well. It was kind of a spoiler in my opinion. It was almost like she just wanted to shove it all in at the end.
Overall, I really liked not just Redeeming Kyle, but the trio's story as a whole, it was sexy and fun to read and I'm dying to read the whole story of how Raine and Dex get together in the next books.
My Rating:4.5 of 5 stars!
Blurb:
Falling in love was the easy part…For Talon Carver, the commanding and charismatic lead singer of the rock band 69 Bottles, life has never been better—or worse. His heart’s at a full 11 for Addison Beltrand, his feisty PR rep. But admitting it was a much different tune. The dilemma’s even more complicated when adding his other lover to the mix: Kyle Black, the band’s handsome, sweet and sexy manager.
Why ruin a good thing, right? Things are pretty damn perfect for the trio—in and out of bed. But just when they find their best rhythm with each other, a rocky night in Minneapolis forces all three to reexamine their feelings—and take their relationship to new levels.
But can love be enough?
The band’s soaring popularity, along with the pressures of maintaining an unconventional relationship on a high-profile rock tour, start to take their toll. When Addison starts to fall apart, Talon and Kyle must come to terms with how important she is to them both.
Can Addison find the strength to be their glue once more?
What happens when the world goes on…but yours suddenly stops?
When everything looks like it’s going to fall apart? Is love enough to bring Talon, Kyle, and Addison back to each other’s arms…and with it, the magic that true redemption can bring?
My Review: Just when things are going back to normal between the trio after Talon and Addison's fight in Minneapolis, a major surprise turns the trio's lives upside down. Suddenly it isn't just about them and what they want and ready or not nothing will be the same again.
As Addison, Talon, and Kyle navigate the changes coming at them one after another they must decide if they are in it for the long haul, or if they truly aren't mean to last forever.
I liked Redeeming Kyle much better than Craving Talon in certain ways. The changes in the trio's lives wasn't unexpected, especially when the end of book two hinted at what was to come but I loved watching all three characters learn how to deal with their unexpected surprise and grow up a little more.
I kind of wished at one point that Talon and Addison would ditch Kyle - because of how he was acting - and just become a twosome but I liked how the author smoothed everything out between them all, even if it wasn't realistic. The only things I didn't like about this book were the way it was written in certain places, almost like the author/narrator was telling the story as if you were gossiping to a friend. It just felt wrong to me, and I did notice sections like that in Craving Talon as well. Also, as the author does go on to write Dex and Raine and Mouse and Peacock's stories in the other three books in the series I hated that the author kind of fast-forwarded in the end telling not just what was happening in Kyle, Talon, and Addison's futures, but the other band members as well. It was kind of a spoiler in my opinion. It was almost like she just wanted to shove it all in at the end.
Overall, I really liked not just Redeeming Kyle, but the trio's story as a whole, it was sexy and fun to read and I'm dying to read the whole story of how Raine and Dex get together in the next books.
My Rating:4.5 of 5 stars!
January 19, 2017
"Book Mail" Thursday #9
Since RoseBlood by A.G. Howard came out last week, this week I got my pre-ordered copy of the Barnes and Noble exclusive edition!
RoseBlood (Barnes and Noble Exclusive Edition) by A.G. Howard
Isn't it gorgeous? What makes it an exclusive edition? There are 16 pages of exclusive content! (Christine's journal entries)
Waiting On / Soon to Order:
Thanks to a bothersome work project finally coming through I am finally able to order a bunch of books I've been wanting to get! (And by bunch I mean a lot. Here are just a few that I'm planning to order...
Broken Prince & Twisted Palace by Erin Watt
Red Queen by Victoria Aveyard
The Graces by Laura Eve
An Ember In the Ashes by Sabaa Tahir
***
Have you read any of these books? What did you think of them?
RoseBlood (Barnes and Noble Exclusive Edition) by A.G. Howard
Isn't it gorgeous? What makes it an exclusive edition? There are 16 pages of exclusive content! (Christine's journal entries)Waiting On / Soon to Order:
Thanks to a bothersome work project finally coming through I am finally able to order a bunch of books I've been wanting to get! (And by bunch I mean a lot. Here are just a few that I'm planning to order...
Broken Prince & Twisted Palace by Erin Watt
Red Queen by Victoria Aveyard
The Graces by Laura Eve
An Ember In the Ashes by Sabaa Tahir
***
Have you read any of these books? What did you think of them?
January 18, 2017
"What I'm Reading" Wednesday #58
I've spent the last week in the world of sexy rock stars with Zoey Derrick's 69 Bottles Series, so now it's time to switch it up a little and dive into Wendy Higgins's NA Post-Apocalyptic Sci-Fi Debut. This "WIR"-Wednesday I'm reading...
Unknown (Unknown Trilogy #1) by Wendy Higgins
Blurb:
Amber Tate believes the worst thing she’ll suffer in life is dealing with the unrequited love she feels for her brother’s best friend, Rylen Fite. She also believes war is something unfortunate that happens places far, far away from her rural Nevada town. She’s wrong on both counts.
When an unknown organization meticulously bombs major cities in the United States and across the globe, a trickle-down effect spreads to remaining towns at an alarming speed—everything from food and water sources to technology and communications are compromised. Without leadership, the nation is split between paralysis and panic, but Amber isn’t one to hide or watch helplessly. She’s determined to put her nursing skills to use, despite the danger, even if it means working alongside the man she can never have.
Why I Chose This Book / What I Think So Far: Wendy Higgins is one of my favorite authors and I remember having the cover reveal for Unknown (and the upcoming second book, Unrest) here on my blog. While Post-Apocalyptic Sci-Fi novels are not my usual type of book to read I decided to give Unknown a chance because I credit Wendy for being the author to get me to love high fantasy with her novel, The Great Hunt. Since starting last night and having a busy day today I'm only into the Prologue, but it has grabbed my interest right away. I'm eager to see how the story pans out.
Unknown (Unknown Trilogy #1) by Wendy Higgins
Blurb:
Amber Tate believes the worst thing she’ll suffer in life is dealing with the unrequited love she feels for her brother’s best friend, Rylen Fite. She also believes war is something unfortunate that happens places far, far away from her rural Nevada town. She’s wrong on both counts.When an unknown organization meticulously bombs major cities in the United States and across the globe, a trickle-down effect spreads to remaining towns at an alarming speed—everything from food and water sources to technology and communications are compromised. Without leadership, the nation is split between paralysis and panic, but Amber isn’t one to hide or watch helplessly. She’s determined to put her nursing skills to use, despite the danger, even if it means working alongside the man she can never have.
Why I Chose This Book / What I Think So Far: Wendy Higgins is one of my favorite authors and I remember having the cover reveal for Unknown (and the upcoming second book, Unrest) here on my blog. While Post-Apocalyptic Sci-Fi novels are not my usual type of book to read I decided to give Unknown a chance because I credit Wendy for being the author to get me to love high fantasy with her novel, The Great Hunt. Since starting last night and having a busy day today I'm only into the Prologue, but it has grabbed my interest right away. I'm eager to see how the story pans out.
January 17, 2017
Cover Reveal: Mischief & Magnolias by Kristi Cook
I have been a fan of Kristi Cook's books since The Haven Trilogy and Magnolia was amazing so I am seriously excited to share with you all the cover of young adult author, Kristi Cook's upcoming novella Mischief & Magnolias!!! I am so excited to read this one!
Not only am I sharing the cover today, but I also have a teaser from the book that has never been shared before.
To make things EVEN MORE exciting, author Kristi Cook is giving away a copy of ANY of her books to one lucky winner! Details can be found at the end.
Who's ready to see the cover? :)
Expected publication: February 7th, 2017Add to GoodReads
Laura Grace nods and turns toward Ryder and me. “You two kids try and play nice for a little bit. Dinner’s in fifteen minutes—get yourselves cleaned up and to the dining room by then, okay?” “Got it,” Ryder murmurs. And off they go, leaving us totally and blissfully alone. Ryder sidles up beside me. “So, last night was nice,” he says, his breath warm against my ear. Shivers race down my spine. “Yes, it was.” “Think you can sneak out again tonight?” “Probably. You know my parents—always in bed by ten.” He runs a hand through his dark hair, leaving it sticking up in all directions. “How am I going to last until then? Sitting at the dinner table across from the prettiest girl in the world and not allowed to touch her?” “Well, would you look at that…” I tip my head toward the doorway, where a sprig of mistletoe is conveniently hanging. “Should we risk it? Maybe if we’re really quick?”His dark eyes spark with mischief, and I grab his hand and dash toward the door, dragging him with me as I position myself directly under the waxy green leaves. “You sure like to live dangerously, Jemma Cafferty,” he says, wrapping his arms around me.I rise up on tiptoe, my head tipped back as I gaze up at him adoringly. “Shut up and kiss me, Ryder Marsden.” His kiss is gentle at first—almost tentative. But then…it’s like the room falls away and there’s nothing left, nothing but me and Ryder and this kiss that literally steals away my breath and turns my knees to Jell-O and my brain to mush. And that’s pretty much when all hell breaks loose.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Other YA novels by Kristi Cook...
Find Kristi on...Website † Twitter † GoodReads † Facebook
This giveaway is open internationalWinner will be chosen via rafflecopterAn email will be sent to the winner. Winner has 24 hours to claim book or a new winner will be chosen
a Rafflecopter giveaway
Not only am I sharing the cover today, but I also have a teaser from the book that has never been shared before.
To make things EVEN MORE exciting, author Kristi Cook is giving away a copy of ANY of her books to one lucky winner! Details can be found at the end.
Who's ready to see the cover? :)
Expected publication: February 7th, 2017Add to GoodReads
When Ryder Marsden and Jemma Cafferty return to Magnolia Branch for Christmas break following their first semester at their respective universities in New York City (Columbia and NYU), their secret relationship is revealed—they’re literally caught under the mistletoe, kissing. Unexpectedly, their parents—who’ve spent their entire lives pushing them together—are somehow less than thrilled, especially when they realize the depth of their deception.
Tensions mount as the Marsden and Cafferty families struggle to come to terms with Jemma’s and Ryder’s feelings for each other, especially as they prepare to send them back to New York City together. At the same time, Jemma and Ryder must face their own problems that have arisen as a result of attending different schools—there are jealousies to be sorted out and hurt feelings to mend if their relationship is going to stand the test of time.
Will their love last, or are they star-crossed lovers, after all?
Laura Grace nods and turns toward Ryder and me. “You two kids try and play nice for a little bit. Dinner’s in fifteen minutes—get yourselves cleaned up and to the dining room by then, okay?” “Got it,” Ryder murmurs. And off they go, leaving us totally and blissfully alone. Ryder sidles up beside me. “So, last night was nice,” he says, his breath warm against my ear. Shivers race down my spine. “Yes, it was.” “Think you can sneak out again tonight?” “Probably. You know my parents—always in bed by ten.” He runs a hand through his dark hair, leaving it sticking up in all directions. “How am I going to last until then? Sitting at the dinner table across from the prettiest girl in the world and not allowed to touch her?” “Well, would you look at that…” I tip my head toward the doorway, where a sprig of mistletoe is conveniently hanging. “Should we risk it? Maybe if we’re really quick?”His dark eyes spark with mischief, and I grab his hand and dash toward the door, dragging him with me as I position myself directly under the waxy green leaves. “You sure like to live dangerously, Jemma Cafferty,” he says, wrapping his arms around me.I rise up on tiptoe, my head tipped back as I gaze up at him adoringly. “Shut up and kiss me, Ryder Marsden.” His kiss is gentle at first—almost tentative. But then…it’s like the room falls away and there’s nothing left, nothing but me and Ryder and this kiss that literally steals away my breath and turns my knees to Jell-O and my brain to mush. And that’s pretty much when all hell breaks loose.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
New York Times bestselling YA author Kristi Cook is a transplanted southern gal who lives in New York City with her husband and two kids. Her YA debut, HAVEN, was released in Feb. 2011 by Simon Pulse. The last two volumes in the Winterhaven series, MIRAGE and ETERNAL, followed in 2012 and 2013. Her first contemporary, southern-set YA, MAGNOLIA, was released in 2014. She's currently working on a contemporary YA with paranormal elements set in Savannah, GA.
Kristi also writes adult romantic fiction as Kristina Cook and Kristi Astor.
Other YA novels by Kristi Cook...
Find Kristi on...Website † Twitter † GoodReads † Facebook
This giveaway is open internationalWinner will be chosen via rafflecopterAn email will be sent to the winner. Winner has 24 hours to claim book or a new winner will be chosen
a Rafflecopter giveaway
January 16, 2017
Book Review: Craving Talon by Zoey Derrick
Craving Talon (69 Bottles #2) by Zoey Derrick
Blurb:
It’s a crazy turn of life for Addison Beltrand, who’s always lived to work and worked to live. Now, everything is shifted upside down—and that’s not a bad thing. Stepping on the 69 Bottles tour bus has banished the heartache of her past, and feels like a rocking new beginning.
Talon Carver and Kyle Black couldn’t agree more. The band’s lead singer and manager are falling hard for the beautiful rock chick, and will do anything to keep her in their bed—and between their bodies—forever.
The trio’s blissful bubble is popped by a danger nobody has anticipated. The band’s security team, always watchful for fan attacks on the members, isn’t prepared for what happens to Addison during this leg of the tour. Will Kyle and Talon be able to help save Addison? Or will her fear force her to pack her bags and return to LA?
Everything hinges on her decision…
Two men. One woman. A rock band. A tour bus. One Wild Ride…
My Review:
Craving Talon picks up where Claiming Addison left off - Addison, Talon, and Kyle are heading over to Cami and Tristan's house for dinner with the band. After Addison's performance with Talon Bold is eager to sign her on as a client and an overwhelmed Addison realizes that her life is changing forever.
As Addison and her sexy men try new things, break down walls, and grow ever closer Addison is also learning to deal with her new found fame. But with that fame comes the dangers of being in the public eye and Addison wonders if she can really handle a rock star's lifestyle. New jealousies spring up and as the wild new lifestyle takes its toll on Addison will it bring the trio closer together or tear them apart?
After reading and loving Claiming Addison I was eager to read Craving Talon. While I did really, really like book two, I'm not sure I loved it as much as I did book one. I know these books are considered erotica but I kind of felt like there was too much sex. Every other scene seems like the kinky trio was hopping into the sack and there wasn't much storyline in between. I know part of it was to show that the trio were testing and surpassing their boundaries but after a while it became less sexy and more boring, in my opinion.
There were maybe three scenes that I felt picked up the pace and switched up the story adding a little bit of drama; the incident in Dallas, the bus thing, and the fight about the country singer but overall it kind of felt like the complications became smoothed over non-issues in the span of a page or two.
Am I invested in the characters enough to see how the trio's story ends? Yes, I'm just hoping for a little more story in book three.
My Rating:
3.75/5 Stars
Blurb:
It’s a crazy turn of life for Addison Beltrand, who’s always lived to work and worked to live. Now, everything is shifted upside down—and that’s not a bad thing. Stepping on the 69 Bottles tour bus has banished the heartache of her past, and feels like a rocking new beginning. Talon Carver and Kyle Black couldn’t agree more. The band’s lead singer and manager are falling hard for the beautiful rock chick, and will do anything to keep her in their bed—and between their bodies—forever.
The trio’s blissful bubble is popped by a danger nobody has anticipated. The band’s security team, always watchful for fan attacks on the members, isn’t prepared for what happens to Addison during this leg of the tour. Will Kyle and Talon be able to help save Addison? Or will her fear force her to pack her bags and return to LA?
Everything hinges on her decision…
Two men. One woman. A rock band. A tour bus. One Wild Ride…
My Review:
Craving Talon picks up where Claiming Addison left off - Addison, Talon, and Kyle are heading over to Cami and Tristan's house for dinner with the band. After Addison's performance with Talon Bold is eager to sign her on as a client and an overwhelmed Addison realizes that her life is changing forever.
As Addison and her sexy men try new things, break down walls, and grow ever closer Addison is also learning to deal with her new found fame. But with that fame comes the dangers of being in the public eye and Addison wonders if she can really handle a rock star's lifestyle. New jealousies spring up and as the wild new lifestyle takes its toll on Addison will it bring the trio closer together or tear them apart?
After reading and loving Claiming Addison I was eager to read Craving Talon. While I did really, really like book two, I'm not sure I loved it as much as I did book one. I know these books are considered erotica but I kind of felt like there was too much sex. Every other scene seems like the kinky trio was hopping into the sack and there wasn't much storyline in between. I know part of it was to show that the trio were testing and surpassing their boundaries but after a while it became less sexy and more boring, in my opinion.
There were maybe three scenes that I felt picked up the pace and switched up the story adding a little bit of drama; the incident in Dallas, the bus thing, and the fight about the country singer but overall it kind of felt like the complications became smoothed over non-issues in the span of a page or two.
Am I invested in the characters enough to see how the trio's story ends? Yes, I'm just hoping for a little more story in book three.
My Rating:
3.75/5 Stars
January 13, 2017
All About ARCs
Over the past year, you've probably heard me mention the term "ARC" quite a few times and unless you're a book blogger or some other kind of book insider I'm betting you're wondering what ARC stands for.
What Is An ARC? An ARC is an Advanced Reader Copy or uncorrected galley proof of an upcoming novel, used for review and promotional purposes. They can come in both e-book or physical format.
Who Gets ARCs?
ARCs are expensive to produce so they're not available for everyone. Not all books get ARCS made of them and only a set amount of a book are made and they usually go to book bloggers, reviewers, librarians, and booksellers since the main goal of an ARC is to garner publicity for the book. Always remember, especially if you're an author: Reviews = Greater chance that someone will buy the book.
Question: I blog about books, how do I get ARCs?
I know a lot of other blogs have covered this subject before, but you have to consider a few things before requesting ARCs.
1. How long have you been blogging?
If your answer is less than six months I'd try reviewing books that you've purchased/borrowed/gotten from the library for a while, building up a book review portfolio if you will. Most publishers are looking for established blogs with a certain number of page views/month or subscribers. That number varies by each publisher but they still look for people that have been blogging for a while.
2. Are books the sole focus of your blog? Do you blog about other stuff (clothing, crafting, makeup, etc.) most of the time and just throw in a book mention here or there? Yeah, you probably shouldn't request a book ARC if that's not what you blog about. You'll just have to wait for it to hit bookshelves.
3. Are you really going to read the book?
Since there is a limited number of ARCs made and distributed it wouldn't be fair for you to request a book and then not read it when the publisher could have given it to someone that would read and review it. I mean if you try reading it and can't get into it or it ends up in the DNF pile that's one thing, but requesting a book just to say you got it before someone else is not good.
4. Are you willing to write an Honest Review?
Really, the whole point of ARCs is to create buzz for the upcoming release, which includes book reviews. In the world of getting ARCs, writing a review on a book you've requested should be a requirement in my opinion. The review doesn't have to be super long, but I think the publisher, as well as potential buyers that might read your review, are looking for what you did/didn't like about the book. "What if I don't like the book/do not finish it?" You ask. Well, in the case of not liking the book, it's okay to say that you don't like it for whatever your reasons are. As long as you're being honest about your opinion that is all that matters. {You are not required as a review to give a positive review of any product just because you've been sent the product for review. That is called "buying a positive review" and is completely wrong. If Amazon even thinks that might be what's going on the can and will remove your review.} The same goes for not finishing the book. You don't need to finish a book to write a review on it... just tell them honestly what you didn't like about the book that caused you to not finish reading it.
Now on to the fun part...
Question: Who/Where do I go to Request an ARC/eARC?
So you've been blogging about books for a while and you're finally ready to take the seemingly scary challenge of requesting an ARC from a publisher, but where do you start? As I mentioned above there are two different formats for ARCs: Physical (paperback) Advanced Reader Copies and eBook Advanced Reader Copies.
There are two main sites that I know of that you can request eARCs from for review:
Netgalley
Netgalley is the main site I use for eARCs and it's easy to sign up for and use.
To Sign Up:
1. Visit: http://netgalley.com and click on the orange box that reads: "Become a Member"
2. Fill in all the information and hit register.
3. Once you're registered go to your profile and fill in all of the stats for your blog such as how long you've been blogging, your page views per month, your follower count, your preferred genres, and anything else you think you want the publishers reviewing your profile to know.
You're all set! Now just search through the books being offered in your preferred genres and when you find something you're interested in hit request. The publisher has the right to review all requests that come to them. Do not feel discouraged if you get turned down. It may be that they met their limit of eARCs they were planning to send out or some other reason that has absolutely nothing to do with you as a reviewer.
Edelweiss
Edelweiss (https://edelweiss.abovethetreeline.com) is similar to Netgalley but uses a slightly different process when requesting books.
Once you've registered and found a book you want to request do the following:
1. It will ask you what you're requesting as; i.e. blogger, academic, bookseller, librarian, etc. Choose which applies to you.
2. Fill in a description of your role: This is where you tell them your name, your blog /url, stats, etc.
3. Additional Message: (Specific reason for requesting this title): Here you tell them why you want to read and review this book. Have you read the previous book in the series? Are you participating in a blog tour for the book? Are you a fan of the author and would love the chance to read his/her next book? Put that information here.
4. Hit submit and wait to be approved or denied.
Physical ARCs
Physical ARCs are a bit harder to get in my opinion. I myself have only gotten three so far, one of which was from an indie author I love and another I got from a blogger friend of mine that was done with it and was nice enough to give me their copy so I could read and review. But how do you reach out to a publisher to request a review copy? (Remember: don't contact an author for review copies, they are not in charge of sending them out - the publisher is!)
1. Find the publisher's website of the book you want to request. (Always have a book in mind... do not just email a publisher and tell them "send me whatever you've got.")
2. Locate their contact information and if they have a specific contact for their publicity department (this is who usually handles review requests.)
3. Compose and send an email review request with some info about your blog, a link to your blog, and your stats, how long you've been blogging as well as which book(s) you're interested in reviewing and why you would like to review that book(s). If you've read and reviewed a previous book by that author or in that series it doesn't hurt to include a link to that review on your blog. Also and most IMPORTANT: include your full address. How can they send you a physical ARC if they don't have your address?
You may or may not get a response from your email. Publishers get tons of emails from people every day and can't always respond to each one personally. Don't take that as a bad sign. Now you wait to see if you receive a Physical ARC. Don't take it personally if you don't. In the end, there are probably thousands of reviewers requesting the same book you are, with only a limited number of ARCs.
So you've received an ARC. Now what?
So you've been lucky enough to have been approved for an ARC and you are now in possession of an ARC / eARC of the book you wanted. Now what?
1. Read the book!!! (This is why you requested it after all.)
2. Write a review of the book and schedule it on your blog. (I recommend not posting the review until around the week of the book's release but some publishers will give you specific guidelines)
3. Send in your feedback (if you have an eARC through Netgalley or Edelweiss you'll be able to give feedback right on the website. Alternately you can email the publicity department of that publisher with your review or send a hard copy to their office if that is what they prefer.)
4. Post your review on your blog, Amazon, Goodreads, and any other outlets you choose to post your review on. (I recommend doing this on the release date.)
5. Remember: ARCs are uncorrected galley proofs, they are not for sale so please do not try to resell them!
***
So there you go, now you know a little more about Advanced Reader Copies.
What Is An ARC? An ARC is an Advanced Reader Copy or uncorrected galley proof of an upcoming novel, used for review and promotional purposes. They can come in both e-book or physical format.
Who Gets ARCs?
ARCs are expensive to produce so they're not available for everyone. Not all books get ARCS made of them and only a set amount of a book are made and they usually go to book bloggers, reviewers, librarians, and booksellers since the main goal of an ARC is to garner publicity for the book. Always remember, especially if you're an author: Reviews = Greater chance that someone will buy the book.
Question: I blog about books, how do I get ARCs?
I know a lot of other blogs have covered this subject before, but you have to consider a few things before requesting ARCs.
1. How long have you been blogging?
If your answer is less than six months I'd try reviewing books that you've purchased/borrowed/gotten from the library for a while, building up a book review portfolio if you will. Most publishers are looking for established blogs with a certain number of page views/month or subscribers. That number varies by each publisher but they still look for people that have been blogging for a while.
2. Are books the sole focus of your blog? Do you blog about other stuff (clothing, crafting, makeup, etc.) most of the time and just throw in a book mention here or there? Yeah, you probably shouldn't request a book ARC if that's not what you blog about. You'll just have to wait for it to hit bookshelves.
3. Are you really going to read the book?
Since there is a limited number of ARCs made and distributed it wouldn't be fair for you to request a book and then not read it when the publisher could have given it to someone that would read and review it. I mean if you try reading it and can't get into it or it ends up in the DNF pile that's one thing, but requesting a book just to say you got it before someone else is not good.
4. Are you willing to write an Honest Review?
Really, the whole point of ARCs is to create buzz for the upcoming release, which includes book reviews. In the world of getting ARCs, writing a review on a book you've requested should be a requirement in my opinion. The review doesn't have to be super long, but I think the publisher, as well as potential buyers that might read your review, are looking for what you did/didn't like about the book. "What if I don't like the book/do not finish it?" You ask. Well, in the case of not liking the book, it's okay to say that you don't like it for whatever your reasons are. As long as you're being honest about your opinion that is all that matters. {You are not required as a review to give a positive review of any product just because you've been sent the product for review. That is called "buying a positive review" and is completely wrong. If Amazon even thinks that might be what's going on the can and will remove your review.} The same goes for not finishing the book. You don't need to finish a book to write a review on it... just tell them honestly what you didn't like about the book that caused you to not finish reading it.
Now on to the fun part...
Question: Who/Where do I go to Request an ARC/eARC?
So you've been blogging about books for a while and you're finally ready to take the seemingly scary challenge of requesting an ARC from a publisher, but where do you start? As I mentioned above there are two different formats for ARCs: Physical (paperback) Advanced Reader Copies and eBook Advanced Reader Copies.
There are two main sites that I know of that you can request eARCs from for review:
Netgalley
Netgalley is the main site I use for eARCs and it's easy to sign up for and use.
To Sign Up:
1. Visit: http://netgalley.com and click on the orange box that reads: "Become a Member"
2. Fill in all the information and hit register.
3. Once you're registered go to your profile and fill in all of the stats for your blog such as how long you've been blogging, your page views per month, your follower count, your preferred genres, and anything else you think you want the publishers reviewing your profile to know.
You're all set! Now just search through the books being offered in your preferred genres and when you find something you're interested in hit request. The publisher has the right to review all requests that come to them. Do not feel discouraged if you get turned down. It may be that they met their limit of eARCs they were planning to send out or some other reason that has absolutely nothing to do with you as a reviewer.
Edelweiss
Edelweiss (https://edelweiss.abovethetreeline.com) is similar to Netgalley but uses a slightly different process when requesting books.
Once you've registered and found a book you want to request do the following:
1. It will ask you what you're requesting as; i.e. blogger, academic, bookseller, librarian, etc. Choose which applies to you.
2. Fill in a description of your role: This is where you tell them your name, your blog /url, stats, etc.
3. Additional Message: (Specific reason for requesting this title): Here you tell them why you want to read and review this book. Have you read the previous book in the series? Are you participating in a blog tour for the book? Are you a fan of the author and would love the chance to read his/her next book? Put that information here.
4. Hit submit and wait to be approved or denied.
Physical ARCs
Physical ARCs are a bit harder to get in my opinion. I myself have only gotten three so far, one of which was from an indie author I love and another I got from a blogger friend of mine that was done with it and was nice enough to give me their copy so I could read and review. But how do you reach out to a publisher to request a review copy? (Remember: don't contact an author for review copies, they are not in charge of sending them out - the publisher is!)
1. Find the publisher's website of the book you want to request. (Always have a book in mind... do not just email a publisher and tell them "send me whatever you've got.")
2. Locate their contact information and if they have a specific contact for their publicity department (this is who usually handles review requests.)
3. Compose and send an email review request with some info about your blog, a link to your blog, and your stats, how long you've been blogging as well as which book(s) you're interested in reviewing and why you would like to review that book(s). If you've read and reviewed a previous book by that author or in that series it doesn't hurt to include a link to that review on your blog. Also and most IMPORTANT: include your full address. How can they send you a physical ARC if they don't have your address?
You may or may not get a response from your email. Publishers get tons of emails from people every day and can't always respond to each one personally. Don't take that as a bad sign. Now you wait to see if you receive a Physical ARC. Don't take it personally if you don't. In the end, there are probably thousands of reviewers requesting the same book you are, with only a limited number of ARCs.
So you've received an ARC. Now what?
So you've been lucky enough to have been approved for an ARC and you are now in possession of an ARC / eARC of the book you wanted. Now what?
1. Read the book!!! (This is why you requested it after all.)
2. Write a review of the book and schedule it on your blog. (I recommend not posting the review until around the week of the book's release but some publishers will give you specific guidelines)
3. Send in your feedback (if you have an eARC through Netgalley or Edelweiss you'll be able to give feedback right on the website. Alternately you can email the publicity department of that publisher with your review or send a hard copy to their office if that is what they prefer.)
4. Post your review on your blog, Amazon, Goodreads, and any other outlets you choose to post your review on. (I recommend doing this on the release date.)
5. Remember: ARCs are uncorrected galley proofs, they are not for sale so please do not try to resell them!
***
So there you go, now you know a little more about Advanced Reader Copies.
January 12, 2017
Book Review: The Architect of Song by A.G. Howard
The Architect of Song by A.G. Howard
Blurb:
A lady imprisoned by deafness, an architect imprisoned by his past, and a ghost imprisoned within the petals of a flower - intertwine in this love story that transcends life and death.
For most of her life, Juliet Emerline has subsisted - isolated by deafness - making hats in the solitude of her home. Now, she's at risk to lose her sanctuary to Lord Nicolas Thornton, a mysterious and eccentric architect with designs on her humble estate. When she secretly witnesses him raging beside a grave, Juliet investigates, finding the name "Hawk" on the headstone and an unusual flower at the base. The moment Juliet touches the petals, a young English nobleman appears in ghostly form, singing a song only her deaf ears can hear. The ghost remembers nothing of his identity or death, other than the one name that haunts his afterlife: Thornton.
To avenge her ghostly companion and save her estate, Juliet pushes aside her fear of society and travels to Lord Thornton's secluded holiday resort, posing as a hat maker in one of his boutiques. There, she finds herself questioning who to trust: the architect of flesh and bones who can relate to her through romantic gestures, heartfelt notes, and sensual touches ... or the specter who serenades her with beautiful songs and ardent words, touching her mind and soul like no other man ever can. As sinister truths behind Lord Thornton's interest in her estate and his tie to Hawk come to light, Juliet is lured into a web of secrets. But it's too late for escape, and the tragic love taking seed in her heart will alter her silent world forever.
My Review: After a childhood case of the mumps took her hearing Juliet Emerline has spent her life in silent isolation at her mother's side helping with her millinery business. But now her mother is gone leaving her alone in the world, save for her uncle Owen and her trusted maid Enya.
On the day of her mother's funeral Juliet spies an anguished man banging his head against a gated grave. Flustered, she falls and the man, interrupted in his solace, helps her to her feet. After he leaves, Juliet takes a closer look at the grave and finds an unusual silver-petaled flower blooming in front of the grave. Stealthily she digs it up and hides it in her clothing.
Upon returning to her uncle's carriage, Juliet learns the man that came to her aid is none other than Lord Thornton, the viscount that's been trying to buy her family home for months.
When she returns home Juliet discovers the plant holds the spirit of an attractive young man, Hawk - a man that has no memory of his life or how he died. How is the handsome ghost connected to Lord Thornton? Juliet vows to uncover the truth and help Hawk remember his life.
As Juliet is drawn into the mystery of Hawk's past and thrust into a future she doesn't want with the young, attractive viscount she finds herself falling for both men. But which man can really hold her heart? Could Juliet ever really have a future with a ghost? Or could she allow herself to imagine a future with the last person she ever dreamed she would fall in love with?
Soon it becomes all too clear that there were sinister circumstances surrounding Hawk's death. Is it possible that Juliet has been spending her time with a violent, rogueish murderer?
The Architect of Song is a beautiful, gothic romance full of mystery, secrets, misconceptions, and hope. Of all of A.G. Howard's books, I think The Architect of Song might be my favorite. It reminds me of both RoseBlood and Splintered in certain ways and in the story-weaving that is unique to the author.
I found Juliet to be likable and her instant chemistry with Hawk was steamy. It was interesting watching both Hawk and Chaine's characters, in particular, evolve and change throughout the book. In the beginning, I definitely felt devotion for one and skepticism for the other but then it switched up and suddenly I was apprehensive for the first and totally head over heels for the other. Without giving anything away I can say, just when you think you have everything figured out the plot twists, throwing you for a surprised loop.
I loved the setting and storyline of The Architect of Song and unraveling the mystery of Hawk and Chaine kept me hooked. Overall, The Architect of Song is a great read that reminded me personally of gothic romances from Jane Austen's Northanger Abbey era and a splash of the movie Crimson Peak (without the blood, gore, and horror). I would definitely read this book again and recommend it to everyone that enjoys a gothic, romantic, historical mystery. I can't wait to read the next book!
My Rating:5 of 5 Stars!
Blurb:
A lady imprisoned by deafness, an architect imprisoned by his past, and a ghost imprisoned within the petals of a flower - intertwine in this love story that transcends life and death. For most of her life, Juliet Emerline has subsisted - isolated by deafness - making hats in the solitude of her home. Now, she's at risk to lose her sanctuary to Lord Nicolas Thornton, a mysterious and eccentric architect with designs on her humble estate. When she secretly witnesses him raging beside a grave, Juliet investigates, finding the name "Hawk" on the headstone and an unusual flower at the base. The moment Juliet touches the petals, a young English nobleman appears in ghostly form, singing a song only her deaf ears can hear. The ghost remembers nothing of his identity or death, other than the one name that haunts his afterlife: Thornton.
To avenge her ghostly companion and save her estate, Juliet pushes aside her fear of society and travels to Lord Thornton's secluded holiday resort, posing as a hat maker in one of his boutiques. There, she finds herself questioning who to trust: the architect of flesh and bones who can relate to her through romantic gestures, heartfelt notes, and sensual touches ... or the specter who serenades her with beautiful songs and ardent words, touching her mind and soul like no other man ever can. As sinister truths behind Lord Thornton's interest in her estate and his tie to Hawk come to light, Juliet is lured into a web of secrets. But it's too late for escape, and the tragic love taking seed in her heart will alter her silent world forever.
My Review: After a childhood case of the mumps took her hearing Juliet Emerline has spent her life in silent isolation at her mother's side helping with her millinery business. But now her mother is gone leaving her alone in the world, save for her uncle Owen and her trusted maid Enya.
On the day of her mother's funeral Juliet spies an anguished man banging his head against a gated grave. Flustered, she falls and the man, interrupted in his solace, helps her to her feet. After he leaves, Juliet takes a closer look at the grave and finds an unusual silver-petaled flower blooming in front of the grave. Stealthily she digs it up and hides it in her clothing.
Upon returning to her uncle's carriage, Juliet learns the man that came to her aid is none other than Lord Thornton, the viscount that's been trying to buy her family home for months.
When she returns home Juliet discovers the plant holds the spirit of an attractive young man, Hawk - a man that has no memory of his life or how he died. How is the handsome ghost connected to Lord Thornton? Juliet vows to uncover the truth and help Hawk remember his life.
As Juliet is drawn into the mystery of Hawk's past and thrust into a future she doesn't want with the young, attractive viscount she finds herself falling for both men. But which man can really hold her heart? Could Juliet ever really have a future with a ghost? Or could she allow herself to imagine a future with the last person she ever dreamed she would fall in love with?
Soon it becomes all too clear that there were sinister circumstances surrounding Hawk's death. Is it possible that Juliet has been spending her time with a violent, rogueish murderer?
The Architect of Song is a beautiful, gothic romance full of mystery, secrets, misconceptions, and hope. Of all of A.G. Howard's books, I think The Architect of Song might be my favorite. It reminds me of both RoseBlood and Splintered in certain ways and in the story-weaving that is unique to the author.
I found Juliet to be likable and her instant chemistry with Hawk was steamy. It was interesting watching both Hawk and Chaine's characters, in particular, evolve and change throughout the book. In the beginning, I definitely felt devotion for one and skepticism for the other but then it switched up and suddenly I was apprehensive for the first and totally head over heels for the other. Without giving anything away I can say, just when you think you have everything figured out the plot twists, throwing you for a surprised loop.
I loved the setting and storyline of The Architect of Song and unraveling the mystery of Hawk and Chaine kept me hooked. Overall, The Architect of Song is a great read that reminded me personally of gothic romances from Jane Austen's Northanger Abbey era and a splash of the movie Crimson Peak (without the blood, gore, and horror). I would definitely read this book again and recommend it to everyone that enjoys a gothic, romantic, historical mystery. I can't wait to read the next book!
My Rating:5 of 5 Stars!
January 11, 2017
"What I'm Reading" Wednesday #57
I was up late last night finishing The Architect of Song by A.G. Howard so this "WIR"-Wednesday I'm starting...
Gates of Thread and Stone by Lori M. Lee
Blurb:
In the Labyrinth, we had a saying: keep silent, keep still, keep safe.
In a city of walls and secrets, where only one man is supposed to possess magic, seventeen-year-old Kai struggles to keep hidden her own secret—she can manipulate the threads of time. When Kai was eight, she was found by Reev on the riverbank, and her “brother” has taken care of her ever since. Kai doesn’t know where her ability comes from—or where she came from. All that matters is that she and Reev stay together, and maybe one day move out of the freight container they call home, away from the metal walls of the Labyrinth. Kai’s only friend is Avan, the shopkeeper’s son with the scandalous reputation that both frightens and intrigues her.
Then Reev disappears. When keeping silent and safe means losing him forever, Kai vows to do whatever it takes to find him. She will leave the only home she’s ever known and risk getting caught up in a revolution centuries in the making. But to save Reev, Kai must unravel the threads of her past and face shocking truths about her brother, her friendship with Avan, and her unique power.
Why I Chose This Book / What I Think So Far: I've had this book on my TBR shelf for a while now, so I finally decided now is the time to read it. Based on the blurb and the first paragraph, it sounds really interesting so I'm eager to dive into it this afternoon or tonight.
Have you read Gates of Thread and Stone? What did you think of it?
Gates of Thread and Stone by Lori M. Lee
Blurb:
In the Labyrinth, we had a saying: keep silent, keep still, keep safe.In a city of walls and secrets, where only one man is supposed to possess magic, seventeen-year-old Kai struggles to keep hidden her own secret—she can manipulate the threads of time. When Kai was eight, she was found by Reev on the riverbank, and her “brother” has taken care of her ever since. Kai doesn’t know where her ability comes from—or where she came from. All that matters is that she and Reev stay together, and maybe one day move out of the freight container they call home, away from the metal walls of the Labyrinth. Kai’s only friend is Avan, the shopkeeper’s son with the scandalous reputation that both frightens and intrigues her.
Then Reev disappears. When keeping silent and safe means losing him forever, Kai vows to do whatever it takes to find him. She will leave the only home she’s ever known and risk getting caught up in a revolution centuries in the making. But to save Reev, Kai must unravel the threads of her past and face shocking truths about her brother, her friendship with Avan, and her unique power.
Why I Chose This Book / What I Think So Far: I've had this book on my TBR shelf for a while now, so I finally decided now is the time to read it. Based on the blurb and the first paragraph, it sounds really interesting so I'm eager to dive into it this afternoon or tonight.
Have you read Gates of Thread and Stone? What did you think of it?
January 10, 2017
Book Review & RELEASE DAY BLITZ: RoseBlood by A.G. Howard
RoseBlood by A.G. Howard
Blurb:
Rune, whose voice has been compared to that of an angel, has a mysterious affliction linked to her talent that leaves her sick and drained at the end of every performance. Convinced creative direction will cure her, her mother ships her off to a French boarding school for the arts, rumored to have a haunted past.
Shortly after arriving at RoseBlood conservatory, Rune starts to believe something otherworldly is indeed afoot. The mystery boy she’s seen frequenting the graveyard beside the opera house doesn’t have any classes at the school, and vanishes almost as quickly as he appears. When Rune begins to develop a secret friendship with the elusive Thorn, who dresses in clothing straight out of the 19th century, she realizes that in his presence she feels cured. Thorn may be falling for Rune, but the phantom haunting RoseBlood wants her for a very specific and dangerous purpose. As their love continues to grow, Thorn is faced with an impossible choice: lead Rune to her destruction, or save her and face the wrath of the phantom, the only father he’s ever known.
My Review: I received an e-ARC of RoseBlood in exchange for an honest review.
17-year-old Rune Germain is being shipped off to a prestigious music conservatory in Paris to get over her "stage fright" at the suggestion of her grandmother - who tried to kill her - and her aunt - who she has never met, not even when her father died.
RoseBlood Academy is housed within the renovated opera house that inspired the famous "The Phantom of the Opera." Rune already doesn't want to attend RoseBlood. To be surrounded by the very music that drives her to the compulsion to sing until she gets sick is her worst nightmare, but then to find out she's going to be housed in the historic opera house that inspired the novel? Horrifying! Who wouldn't want to go to school there?
When Rune thinks she sees the phantom as the limo pulls up to RoseBlood her mother brushes it off as her imagination. Soon that's the least of her worries as she crashes into auditions for the school production and is forced to sing out the lead role, completely overshadowing the top prospect before she faints into the hottest guy in school's arms. Rune can't help it, once she gets a song stuck in her head sooner or later she must perform it... like musical purging. Try telling that to the mean girl who's spotlight she stole.
19-year-old Etalon "Thorn" did not intend for Rune to see him, especially in his unmasked state. Rune is at the school for one purpose, to give her voice toward Thorn's father's dark purpose. Thorn's "father" is the Phantom and he's never forgotten his lost love, Christine. He will go to any length to regain a piece of Christine again.
When a trick brings Rune and Thorn face-to-face Thorn realizes Rune is his "flamme jumelle," his twin flame. To Rune, Thorn is the guy who's been playing to her in her dreams since she was seven. From this one not-so-accidental encounter their bond strengthens and Thorn helps Rune to not fear the music anymore. But the Phantom still wants Rune for his horrible plot - and he'll do anything to get her!
As Thorn begins to fall in love with Rune will he choose to save her from the Phantom's plot? Even if that means turning his back on the only father he's ever known? As Rune settles into her new life she realizes that not everything is as it seems, but how does her family's history intertwine with the Phantom? How does her mysterious maestro fit in with everything? What is he hiding beneath his mask? Is their growing love real? Or is he buttering her up for some evil end? Can she unravel the mystery before it is too late?
RoseBlood is an intriguing retelling of The Phantom of the Opera, with a slight touch of Frankenstein added into the mix. Filled with reincarnation, separated soul mates, incubuses/succubuses, and unusual animals all set in a dark, historical background where secret passageways and double-sided mirrors are the norm, RoseBlood will slowly draw you into its' web and keep you enthralled until the very end.
I found the story a bit slow at first, and there was a lot of description and the characters were in their head a lot, versus more dialogue but when the story does pick up you don't want to put it down. From Thorn's tragic past to his joining with the phantom and working toward his purpose and Rune's story leading up to their first meeting you fall in love with the characters. My favorite of the secondary characters was definitely Diable, even if he was a cat - he was an awesome cat!
RoseBlood haunted my dreams and I loved every minute of it! This is a must read for fans of the Phantom of the Opera and people that are new to the story alike, as well as anyone that loves retellings.My rating: 4.90 of 5 Stars
RoseBlood is available today, Tuesday, January 10, 2017, from Amulet Books and ABRAMS Kids! Pick up your copy in eBook or Hardcover today:
Amazon | Barnes and Noble | iBooks | Kobo | Book Depository | Goodreads
RELEASE DAY BLITZ:
As you can tell from my review I am so excited that ROSEBLOOD by A.G. Howard releases today and that I get to share the news!
If you haven’t yet heard about this wonderful book by Author A.G. Howard, be sure to check out all the details below.
This blitz also includes a giveaway for a signed ROSEBLOOD poster and a mask courtesy of A.G. and Rockstar Book Tours. So if you’d like a chance to win, enter in the Rafflecopter at the bottom of this post.
About The Book:
Title: ROSEBLOODAuthor: A.G. HowardPub. Date: January 10, 2017Publisher: Amulet BooksPages: 432Formats: Hardcover, paperback, eBookFind it: Amazon, B&N, iBooks, Audible, Goodreads
In this modern day spin on Leroux’s gothic tale of unrequited love turned to madness, seventeen-year-old Rune Germain has a mysterious affliction linked to her operatic talent, and a horrifying mistake she’s trying to hide. Hoping creative direction will help her, Rune’s mother sends her to a French arts conservatory for her senior year, located in an opera house rumored to have ties to The Phantom of the Opera.
At RoseBlood, Rune secretly befriends the masked Thorn—an elusive violinist who not only guides her musical transformation through dreams that seem more real than reality itself, but somehow knows who she is behind her own masks. As the two discover an otherworldly connection and a soul-deep romance blossoms, Thorn’s dark agenda comes to light and he’s forced to make a deadly choice: lead Rune to her destruction, or face the wrath of the phantom who has haunted the opera house for a century, and is the only father he’s ever known.
About A.G. Howard
A.G. Howard was inspired to write SPLINTERED while working at a school library. She always wondered what would've happened had the subtle creepiness of Alice's Adventures in Wonderland taken center stage, and she hopes her darker and funkier tribute to Carroll will inspire readers to seek out the stories that won her heart as a child.
When she's not writing, A.G.'s pastimes are reading, rollerblading, gardening, and family vacations which often include impromptu side trips to 18th century graveyards or condemned schoolhouses to appease her overactive muse.Website | Blog | Twitter | Facebook | Tumblr | Pinterest | Goodreads
Giveaway Details:
1 winner will receive a signed ROSEBLOOD poster and a Mask. US Only.
Ends on January 17th at Midnight EST!
a Rafflecopter giveaway
Blurb:
Rune, whose voice has been compared to that of an angel, has a mysterious affliction linked to her talent that leaves her sick and drained at the end of every performance. Convinced creative direction will cure her, her mother ships her off to a French boarding school for the arts, rumored to have a haunted past.Shortly after arriving at RoseBlood conservatory, Rune starts to believe something otherworldly is indeed afoot. The mystery boy she’s seen frequenting the graveyard beside the opera house doesn’t have any classes at the school, and vanishes almost as quickly as he appears. When Rune begins to develop a secret friendship with the elusive Thorn, who dresses in clothing straight out of the 19th century, she realizes that in his presence she feels cured. Thorn may be falling for Rune, but the phantom haunting RoseBlood wants her for a very specific and dangerous purpose. As their love continues to grow, Thorn is faced with an impossible choice: lead Rune to her destruction, or save her and face the wrath of the phantom, the only father he’s ever known.
My Review: I received an e-ARC of RoseBlood in exchange for an honest review.
17-year-old Rune Germain is being shipped off to a prestigious music conservatory in Paris to get over her "stage fright" at the suggestion of her grandmother - who tried to kill her - and her aunt - who she has never met, not even when her father died.
RoseBlood Academy is housed within the renovated opera house that inspired the famous "The Phantom of the Opera." Rune already doesn't want to attend RoseBlood. To be surrounded by the very music that drives her to the compulsion to sing until she gets sick is her worst nightmare, but then to find out she's going to be housed in the historic opera house that inspired the novel? Horrifying! Who wouldn't want to go to school there?
When Rune thinks she sees the phantom as the limo pulls up to RoseBlood her mother brushes it off as her imagination. Soon that's the least of her worries as she crashes into auditions for the school production and is forced to sing out the lead role, completely overshadowing the top prospect before she faints into the hottest guy in school's arms. Rune can't help it, once she gets a song stuck in her head sooner or later she must perform it... like musical purging. Try telling that to the mean girl who's spotlight she stole.
19-year-old Etalon "Thorn" did not intend for Rune to see him, especially in his unmasked state. Rune is at the school for one purpose, to give her voice toward Thorn's father's dark purpose. Thorn's "father" is the Phantom and he's never forgotten his lost love, Christine. He will go to any length to regain a piece of Christine again.
When a trick brings Rune and Thorn face-to-face Thorn realizes Rune is his "flamme jumelle," his twin flame. To Rune, Thorn is the guy who's been playing to her in her dreams since she was seven. From this one not-so-accidental encounter their bond strengthens and Thorn helps Rune to not fear the music anymore. But the Phantom still wants Rune for his horrible plot - and he'll do anything to get her!
As Thorn begins to fall in love with Rune will he choose to save her from the Phantom's plot? Even if that means turning his back on the only father he's ever known? As Rune settles into her new life she realizes that not everything is as it seems, but how does her family's history intertwine with the Phantom? How does her mysterious maestro fit in with everything? What is he hiding beneath his mask? Is their growing love real? Or is he buttering her up for some evil end? Can she unravel the mystery before it is too late?
RoseBlood is an intriguing retelling of The Phantom of the Opera, with a slight touch of Frankenstein added into the mix. Filled with reincarnation, separated soul mates, incubuses/succubuses, and unusual animals all set in a dark, historical background where secret passageways and double-sided mirrors are the norm, RoseBlood will slowly draw you into its' web and keep you enthralled until the very end.
I found the story a bit slow at first, and there was a lot of description and the characters were in their head a lot, versus more dialogue but when the story does pick up you don't want to put it down. From Thorn's tragic past to his joining with the phantom and working toward his purpose and Rune's story leading up to their first meeting you fall in love with the characters. My favorite of the secondary characters was definitely Diable, even if he was a cat - he was an awesome cat!
RoseBlood haunted my dreams and I loved every minute of it! This is a must read for fans of the Phantom of the Opera and people that are new to the story alike, as well as anyone that loves retellings.My rating: 4.90 of 5 Stars
RoseBlood is available today, Tuesday, January 10, 2017, from Amulet Books and ABRAMS Kids! Pick up your copy in eBook or Hardcover today:
Amazon | Barnes and Noble | iBooks | Kobo | Book Depository | Goodreads
RELEASE DAY BLITZ:
As you can tell from my review I am so excited that ROSEBLOOD by A.G. Howard releases today and that I get to share the news!
If you haven’t yet heard about this wonderful book by Author A.G. Howard, be sure to check out all the details below.
This blitz also includes a giveaway for a signed ROSEBLOOD poster and a mask courtesy of A.G. and Rockstar Book Tours. So if you’d like a chance to win, enter in the Rafflecopter at the bottom of this post.
About The Book:
Title: ROSEBLOODAuthor: A.G. HowardPub. Date: January 10, 2017Publisher: Amulet BooksPages: 432Formats: Hardcover, paperback, eBookFind it: Amazon, B&N, iBooks, Audible, Goodreads
In this modern day spin on Leroux’s gothic tale of unrequited love turned to madness, seventeen-year-old Rune Germain has a mysterious affliction linked to her operatic talent, and a horrifying mistake she’s trying to hide. Hoping creative direction will help her, Rune’s mother sends her to a French arts conservatory for her senior year, located in an opera house rumored to have ties to The Phantom of the Opera.
At RoseBlood, Rune secretly befriends the masked Thorn—an elusive violinist who not only guides her musical transformation through dreams that seem more real than reality itself, but somehow knows who she is behind her own masks. As the two discover an otherworldly connection and a soul-deep romance blossoms, Thorn’s dark agenda comes to light and he’s forced to make a deadly choice: lead Rune to her destruction, or face the wrath of the phantom who has haunted the opera house for a century, and is the only father he’s ever known.
About A.G. Howard
A.G. Howard was inspired to write SPLINTERED while working at a school library. She always wondered what would've happened had the subtle creepiness of Alice's Adventures in Wonderland taken center stage, and she hopes her darker and funkier tribute to Carroll will inspire readers to seek out the stories that won her heart as a child.
When she's not writing, A.G.'s pastimes are reading, rollerblading, gardening, and family vacations which often include impromptu side trips to 18th century graveyards or condemned schoolhouses to appease her overactive muse.Website | Blog | Twitter | Facebook | Tumblr | Pinterest | Goodreads
Giveaway Details:
1 winner will receive a signed ROSEBLOOD poster and a Mask. US Only.
Ends on January 17th at Midnight EST!
a Rafflecopter giveaway
