Book Info Kindle Edition, 1st Edition Expected publication: December 10th 2013 edition language English series Eagle Elite #2 other editions (1) Book Info Kindle Edition, 1st Edition Expected publication: December 10th 2013 edition language English series Eagle Elite #2 other editions (1) Source:Netgalley EARC
Would you die for the one you love? Nixon Abandonato made his choice. And now he has to pay the price. Tracey is the love of his life, but being with him has made her a target of his family's enemies. The only way to keep Trace alive is convince the world she means nothing to him.
Trace Rooks has fallen irrevocably in love with the son of her family's sworn rival, and she knows in her bones nothing can tear them apart. Until Nix suddenly pushes her away and into the arms of his best friend... But Trace isn't ready to give up on a future with Nix--and if he won't fight for them, she will.
In the end, a sacrifice must be made. A life for a life. For what better way to cover a multitude of sins than with the blood of a sinner . .
My Thoughts
After book 1 Elite (Eagle Elite, #1)Elect (Eagle Elite #2 totally changed the way Nixon was viewed. Gone was most of the arrogance that epitomized him when interacting with Tracey and in it’s place was an overwhelming desire on his part to keep her safe and happy, even if that meant sacrificing any chance of his being the one that brought her happiness. At any age selfless love is romantic and totally what we all yearn for and very rarely ever find, in this case the make believe character of 21 year old Nixon Abandonato embodies someone whose love is pure and as selfless as it can possibly get!
Like the first book this second one is full of so much great interaction between Nixon and his friends that you feel quite engaged throughout every scene, the revealing of past secrets is dealt with as the drama of the story unfolds as well so you are riveted by the sordid details and the heartbreaking decisions made by both Chase and Nixon in regards to Trace will have you torn up through most of the book.
Uncovering just exactly what is going on that causes Nixon to purposely push Trace into choosing Chase will leave readers totally confused as to whom she really belongs with, however by the end for me it was a no brainer as to my pick and for once am totally glad the author made the same choice.
There was only a few instances where did not like what was going on, most of those revolved around Nixon’s former friend Phoenix but after the story was over and his part was played out it all made perfect sense. The drama and tension and complete meltdowns caused by Nixon’s actions at times also gave me a few bad moments as did some of the things Chase thought/said and did but as before it all resolved to my satisfaction.
I was so happy to get a chance to read this second book in the series after having been slightly torn with how much the first one impacted me so dramatically it was nice to come back to the world and characters and this time leave without feeling conflicted over how things worked out, as a matter of fact the great cliffhanger ending did not even make me disgruntled it instead just whetted my appetite for the next book!
[EArc from Netgalley in exchange for honest review]
Book Info Paperback, 368 pages Expected publication: October 28th 2014 by Harlequin MIRA ISBN 0778316610 (ISBN13: 9780778316619) edition languageBook Info Paperback, 368 pages Expected publication: October 28th 2014 by Harlequin MIRA ISBN 0778316610 (ISBN13: 9780778316619) edition language English series Life in Icicle Falls #6 other editions None found Source:Netgalley EARC
James Claussen has played Santa for years, but now that he's a widower, he's lost interest—in everything. So his daughter, Brooke, kidnaps him from the mall (in his Santa suit!) and takes him to Icicle Falls. She's arranged a special Christmas at the lodge owned by long-widowed Olivia Wallace and her son, Eric. And yet…Brooke wants Dad to be happy, but she's not ready to see someone else's mommy kissing Santa Claus.
Single mom Missy Monroe brings her kids to the lodge, too. Lalla wants a grandma for Christmas, and her brother, Carlos, wants a dog. Missy can't provide either one. What she'd like is an attractive, dependable man. A man like John Truman… But John's girlfriend will be joining him in Icicle Falls, and he's going to propose.
Of course not everything goes as planned. But sometimes the best gifts are the ones you don't expect!
My Thoughts
Never expected to become engrossed in and than spellbound so easily by this story, a story which brings together a group of strangers and transforms them into friends and family!
Not having read previous Life in Icicle Falls books this was a grand introduction to the series, even though it came 6 books in.
The ambience that permeates the town of Icicle Falls is described in a manner that takes the reader right into the heart of everything, from the smell of roasted nuts to the sound of carolers and the shimmering lights glinting off the fallen snow.
Not only do we feel the magic of Christmas but we also feel joy for each character who is in need as they each find that this holiday season wishes long held in their heart are finally coming true in ways they never expected or planned for.
Having lost family at Christmas it was a very easy thing to empathize with both James and Olivia as well as his children and hers, it was even nicer to see their past memories of happier times overcome the pain of loss that lingered and be replaced instead with new memories filled with the joy of making someone else happy.
Fun as well as seriously uplifting this book will help create anticipation for a holiday that deserves more than just fancy wrapping paper, shiny bows and stress. If you are are looking to find a story that invokes the true spirit of Christmas you have found one, this was a fun engrossing tale that left me feeling nostalgic and happy at the end.
We all could use a holiday hideaway like the Lodge on Holly Road!
[EArc from Netgalley in exchange for honest review]
Book Info Paperback, 336 pages Expected publication: January 7th 2014 by Roc original title Black Arts ISBN 0451465245 (ISBN13: 9780451465245) edition Book Info Paperback, 336 pages Expected publication: January 7th 2014 by Roc original title Black Arts ISBN 0451465245 (ISBN13: 9780451465245) edition language English series Jane Yellowrock #7 other editions (4) Source:Netgalley EARC
Jane Yellowrock is a shape-shifting skinwalker who always takes care of her own—no matter the cost...
When Evan Trueblood blows into town looking for his wife, Molly, he’s convinced that she came to see her best friend, Jane. But it seems like the witch made it to New Orleans and then disappeared without a trace.
Jane is ready to do whatever it takes to find her friend. Her desperate search leads her deep into a web of black magic and betrayal and into the dark history between vampires and witches. But the closer she draws to Molly, the closer she draws to a new enemy—one who is stranger and more powerful than any she has ever faced.
My Thoughts
In 2009 Jane Yellowrock exploded onto the Urban Fantasy scene in book 1 Skinwalker-Jane Yellowrock #1 and I fell totally in love with the storyline and the characters. Now we are on book 7, Jane has matured over the course of the intervening years as not only a force to reckon with but as a character that you know you want as a friend as she protects to the death those she loves.
When found out the digital ARC was available to read through publisher on Netgalley my heart jumped for joy, never mind the fact that had ordered my copy that releases in 2014 because waiting that long for my “Jane fix” just would not do!
To my joy they approved my request and so got to read over a month early having delightedly dove headfirst into the latest adventure with Jane and the rest with no stops until last page turned. (Fangirl statements done!)
Jane started out to be a somewhat rough character in the beginning of this series but now 7 books later she has matured into a heroine that we can truly enjoy, quirky humor, love for knives and guns, prickly lack of social skills and all the rest of the things that make her more well rounded. First and foremost Jane’s unswerving sense of loyalty to those she has let become close to her is her number one attribute, the fact that she can apparently clean the floor with Leo the MOC of New Orleans is another point in her favor as a very cool character in this action oriented Urban Fantasy series.
We have also gotten to know some of Jane’s friends and in this book the Truebloods are front and center with the main focus on finding Molly, keeping her husband Evan from losing his mind or letting his wild magic ability get completely out of his control. Angie and little Evan are such sweethearts and “Aunt Jane” would do anything in her power to bring their Mommy home safe and sound, and in this story she does just that. Beast is a very powerful ally as usual however this time even she finds surprises in store for her and Jane that have her reaching out more and more for help from her partners and housemates Eli and Alex Younger. Like other fans of the series it was great to see Jane finally harnessing her full potential as a Skinwalker and most importantly letting it become an “open secret”, her coming to grips with this part of herself was very moving as were the emotions the reader feels right along with her as she overcomes her years of reluctance and fear to embrace her heritage.
From start to finish this was one of my favorites, especially a certain action sequence where Jane takes Leo in a sparring match that leaves them both battered and bloody but smiling.
Solid story with many parts that all lead to one ending that will make you wish for more pages to turn!
[EArc from Netgalley in exchange for honest review]
Book Info Paperback, 304 pages Expected publication: November 5th 2013 by Harlequin (first published November 1st 2013) ISBN 0373885814 (ISBN13:Book Info Paperback, 304 pages Expected publication: November 5th 2013 by Harlequin (first published November 1st 2013) ISBN 0373885814 (ISBN13: 9780373885817) series Harlequin Nocturne #171 other editions (2) Source:Netgalley EARC
This holiday season, armed with love and passion, can the Keepers stop the reign of Darkness?
Christmas is coming to Salem, but so is an evil force that threatens all mankind. In this memorable collection led by New York Times bestselling author Heather Graham, four powerful Keepers must save their community as a strange, eternal night creeps over the town. Forced to choose between their time-honored responsibilities or the lovers their hearts desire, these four extraordinary women must risk their own happiness to save the holiday. But Christmas is a time for miracles, and as each Keeper's greatest longing is met, the Season of Light returns. Don't miss this magical holiday collection from Heather Graham, Deborah LeBlanc, Kathleen Pickering and Beth Ciotta.
My Thoughts
Read from December 14 to 15, 2013 The stories included are: Do you fear what I fear by Heather Graham, The Fright Before Christmas by Deborah Leblance, Unholy Night by new to me author Kathleen Pickering and Stalking in a Winter Wonderland by also new to me author Beth Ciotta.
As a fan of not only Heather Graham and Deborah LeBlanc am also a fan of Christmas holiday setting for stories. This particular anthology appealed to me because have long been fascinated by the Salem witch trials and anything to do with magic really. For me this was an entertaining read but not one that lived up to the potential that the first Keepers trilogy and Keepers LA books showed. The main reason for this in my opinion is that although the characters were developed well each of the novellas were too similar to each other and even though each story does blend with the next it just does not work as well as it should have for me. I did enjoy meeting the 4 new Keepers but the stories just melted together too much for my taste.
While this 4 novella anthology had a nice Christmas message the fact is it is basically 1 plot with 4 different second chance romances that serve as the main story lines with the secondary plot of figuring out who or what is responsible for the darkness which has settled over Salem and shows no sign of leaving does not carry enough of a punch when the cause is finally revealed. However the HEA ending for The Keepers and their significant others was a beautiful way to wrap up the book and am glad to have had a chance to meet cousins Samantha, June, Katie Sue and Rebekah and hope they may be featured in further books in the future.
[EArc from Netgalley in exchange for honest review]
Book Info ebook, 255 pages Published September 21st 2013 ASIN B00FD6RBJ4 edition language English other editions None found Source:Kindle copy from authorBook Info ebook, 255 pages Published September 21st 2013 ASIN B00FD6RBJ4 edition language English other editions None found Source:Kindle copy from author for honest review
Bad Guys Get Caught (Book Three in the Janet Maple Series)
Janet Maple and Dennis Walker are aces at catching the bad guys, but an assignment involving an international gangster and a sleazy politician just might have them in over their heads.
With the man of her dreams on her arm and a dream job at one of NYC’s top private agencies, Janet’s life is nearly perfect. It all changes when a high profile case falls into her lap, and Janet finds her competitive streak kicking in, taking risks she shouldn't be taking.
Dennis Walker loves catching the bad guys as much as he loves being in the limelight. Will he be able to share the laurels with his girlfriend who also happens to be his work partner? And will the bad guys get caught?
*Bad Guys Get Caught is book three of the Janet Maple Series, but it can easily be read on its own.*
My Thoughts
From the beginning of the series we are rooting for Janet and Dennis to become a couple, in book one they meet and sparks fly but as coworkers they leave it at that for the most part. However in the second book the two realize that their attraction to each other should not be denied as it is more than just physical but also a mental connection as the two just “click”.
In each book the pair find themselves in investigations where it seems like the “bad guy” may get off scot free until at the last with just one final piece of evidence they are served overdue justice!
Now that Dennis and Janet have taken their relationship to a higher level of intimacy their competitive personalities cause them friction. When their latest case leads the pair to take measures that neither approve of very much to find the necessary evidence to prove that the squeaky clean politician they are investigating is in fact not as he portrays himself and the link between he and the gangster whose establishments he frequents is a bit more than just that of a loyal customer.
Both Dennis and Janet get a little too caught up and do a bit of damage before each of them realize their work is not more important than their deepening relationship, what could have turned into a complete disaster instead turns into triumph and watching it unfold was a lot of fun. Baxter is as usual his adorable self and even Peter Laskin has a shining moment or two! You have to read this last one, the bad guys never knew exactly what upset their nefarious operations!
Book Info Kindle Edition Expected publication: December 9th 2013 by Carina Press ASIN B00F942TI8 edition language English series Rowan Summerwaite #2 Book Info Kindle Edition Expected publication: December 9th 2013 by Carina Press ASIN B00F942TI8 edition language English series Rowan Summerwaite #2 other editions None found Source:Netgalley EARC
Rowan Summerwaite is no ordinary woman. She’s smart and strong and with the power of an ancient goddess in her belly, she’s the perfect candidate to re-negotiate the fragile Treaty keeping the peace between the Vampire Nation and the last line of defense for humanity, The Hunter Corporation. A meeting of the Joint Tribunal, and Rowan’s new status as Liaison sends her straight to the last place on earth she wants to be—The Keep.
Raised at the knee of The First, honed into a weapon by the Hunter Corporation, wielding ancient knowledge from the Goddess within, Rowan must navigate around bloodthirsty opposition among Vampires and Hunters alike to avoid an all out war that puts humanity in the crosshairs.
And she’s got to do it as she attempts to manage a politically awkward romantic relationship with Scion Clive Stewart during a trip back to a place she escaped nearly fifteen years before. No pressure.
Walking the path between her two lives has already made Rowan a pariah. If she leaves it to become something even more Other, she may lose even the shreds of home she has left.
My Thoughts
Book 1, Goddess with a Blade introduced the world, the characters and the mythology behind Rowan’s power source that allows her to be an unstoppable force when hunting vampires. That being said she was raised and trained amidst the vampires that she is bound by her duty to protect humans from. Now several months later we pick up the story as she is preparing for her first Joint Tribunal session as the newly appointed Liaison between the Hunter Corporation members and the somewhat divided in their loyalties members of The Vampire Nation.
There is unrest between factions in both groups and keeping her cool has never been harder for Rowan then it is while trying to negotiate with those who consider her to be inferior. Her newly formed relationship with Vampire Scion Clive Stewart is just another stumbling block that she must overcome before convincing all parties concerned that peace is much preferable to a war!
As events unfold the politics become brutal as do the measures taken by those opposed to the negotiations that Rowan and the Hunter Corp have proposed to amend the Treaty. As the tensions escalate and nerves fray Rowan is made aware that there is apparently magic being used that is keeping everyone on edge from lack of sleep, finding proof of the source seems to be a dead end but negating the effects with counter magic provided by a member of the Keeps household puts everyone back on an even keel allowing the meetings to progress as planned.
Further interruptions occur which provide Rowan no end of frustration but at long last over the course of several days all is ironed out to the leading members of the Joint Tribunal satisfaction.
After all the lengthy tension filled meetings Rowan sorts out the politics and mistakenly lets her guard down resulting in a vicious attack that leaves her body battered, broken and at deaths door. This was another wonderful foray into the series but not really happy about the abrupt ending because now have quite a wait till book 3 picks up the tale."
[EArc from Netgalley in exchange for honest review]
Book Info Kindle Edition, 336 pages Expected publication: January 7th 2014 by Scholastic Press original title Defy ASIN B00ED05G9S edition languageBook Info Kindle Edition, 336 pages Expected publication: January 7th 2014 by Scholastic Press original title Defy ASIN B00ED05G9S edition language English series Defy #1 other editions (1) Source:Netgalley EARC
A lush and gorgeously written debut, packed with action, intrigue, and a thrilling love triangle.
Alexa Hollen is a fighter. Forced to disguise herself as a boy and serve in the king's army, Alex uses her quick wit and fierce sword-fighting skills to earn a spot on the elite prince's guard. But when a powerful sorcerer sneaks into the palace in the dead of night, even Alex, who is virtually unbeatable, can't prevent him from abducting her, her fellow guard and friend Rylan, and Prince Damian, taking them through the treacherous wilds of the jungle and deep into enemy territory.
The longer Alex is held captive with both Rylan and the prince, the more she realizes that she is not the only one who has been keeping dangerous secrets. And suddenly, after her own secret is revealed, Alex finds herself confronted with two men vying for her heart: the safe and steady Rylan, who has always cared for her, and the dark, intriguing Damian. With hidden foes lurking around every corner, is Alex strong enough to save herself and the kingdom she's sworn to protect?
My Thoughts
In the past year there has been a steady stream of books come to my attention that have all utilized this same scenario of a girl who is pretending to be a boy, a girl who outfights all the other males around her and when her gender is revealed she finds to her surprise that she has managed to have not just her “fellow” guardsman fall in love with her but also the crown prince that she has been guarding for the past year and more.
Alexa is very much like the other females masquerading as males in previous books however she manages to win the readers affection through her sheer determination to do the right thing no matter the cost to herself.
This is a great introductory novel for a new series, it is well paced, has a familiar plot with just enough differences to give it a punch that allows the characters and world building to stand out on their own merits and most of all it allows us to root for good prevailing against evil which always makes for an excellent tension builder.
Be prepared to suspend disbelief more often than not, Alex is after all going through changes that anyone looking too closely would be able to recognize “him” as being female not male but for the sake of the story it works when you understand that we truly do “see what we want” when we are told something is true for a long period of time.
Personally this hit all the right buttons for me with the world with which it was set, the struggle between the need to stay unmasked as a female that Alexa has to contend with for years, the secrets that Prince Damien conceals until near the end when he reveals all during the final battle for the kingdom he wishes to save from his father’s tyrannical rule and most of all the choices faced by the Prince/Alexa and Rylan as their desire to act on their feelings causes conflicting emotions from the reader who is torn trying to choose who is the best fit for whom.
Very much a likeable main character and a tale that trips along nicely from start to finish. Looking forward to what happens next since at the end good triumphs over evil!
[EArc from Netgalley in exchange for honest review]
Book Info ebook, 200 pages Expected publication: November 25th 2013 by Entangled: Covet ISBN 1622663446 (ISBN13: 9781622663446) other editions (1) Book Info ebook, 200 pages Expected publication: November 25th 2013 by Entangled: Covet ISBN 1622663446 (ISBN13: 9781622663446) other editions (1) Source:Netgalley EARC
At eighteen, Melissa seduced her best friend Julia's brother only to run away shortly after. While Daniel was her fairytale prince, Lissa didn’t believe in happy ever afters.
Ten years and a near death experience later, Lissa is ready for a husband and family. But a cry for help from Julia puts that dream on hold. Daniel is acting weird and he’s about to marry his long term girlfriend—AKA The Evil One. Someone needs to save him.
Daniel has never stopped loving Lissa. Ten years ago when he gave her a little freedom, he always intended that one day they would be together. Right up until the moment he was bitten by a werewolf. Now, Daniel has to hide what he is. He won’t risk anyone else, especially the woman he loves.
But Lissa is back. Their attraction is stronger than ever and Lissa is nothing if not tenacious.
My Thoughts
The 2nd chance romance scenario is once again front and center and it made me jump at the chance to read this short story that turned out to be lighter in unexpected places and at the same time deeper in meaning in others.
Daniel is the middle sibling of 5, 4 of whom are girls, and most of his life has been spent in the pursuit of scientific knowledge. Imagine his shock when that became the reason for a werewolf targeting him to join it’s pack and provide a way for their species to become immune to injury or death from silver.
Lissa was too young ten years ago at 18 to understand what she was walking away from was a once in a lifetime love, now all those years later older and wiser she is ready to put her earlier infatuation for Daniel behind her and find the man who will provide her with the family life she finally yearns for.
This is a paranormal romance that has characteristics of Beauty and The Beast but on a more believable note. Daniel and Lissa’s relationship is one that has been on the back burner for more than 16 years, as both of them were attracted in their earlier teens without acting upon the feelings until he was 20 and she was 18.
I found upon them reuniting with each other to be sweet and long overdue, also wanted to take Sophia out of the picture long before she was removed from Daniel’s life!
It always comes down to a final battle between good and evil, in this case it also came down to a battle between Daniel’s conscience as he was so afraid of becoming the very thing that he was fighting against.
There is a lot going on that was mentioned almost in passing that can be used in furthering this as a series, especially how things turn out for Daniels sister Julia in the future and Lissas brother Jason as well. Plus it would be really nice to revisit with Daniel and Melissa to see if their dreams for the future had come to pass too!
[EArc from Netgalley in exchange for honest review]
Book Info Kindle Edition, 254 pages Expected publication: January 6th 2014 by Shiloh Walker, Inc. original title Broken Blade ASIN B00DGBMKVC editionBook Info Kindle Edition, 254 pages Expected publication: January 6th 2014 by Shiloh Walker, Inc. original title Broken Blade ASIN B00DGBMKVC edition language English series Colbana Files #3 characters Kit Colbana other editions (2) Source:Netgalley EARC
Kit Colbana: assassin, thief, investigator extraordinaire. Now broken. She always expected her past to catch up with her but never like this. Haunted by nightmares and stripped of her identity, she’s retreated to Wolf Haven, the no-man’s land where she found refuge years before. But while she might want to hide away from the rest of the world, the rest of the world isn't taking the hint. Dragged kicking and screaming back into life, Kit is thrust head-first into an investigation surrounding the theft of an ancient relic...one that she wants nothing to do with. Her instincts tell her it’s a bad idea to just leave the relic lying about, but finding it might be just as bad.
Forced to face her nightmares, she uncovers hidden strength and comes face to face with one of the world’s original monsters.
If she survives the job, she won’t be the same...and neither will those closest to her.
My Thoughts
I believe that events and circumstances in our past forge us into who we are mentally, physically, spiritually and that in some cases they make us stronger for having experienced them in ways that we do not even begin to understand until faced with even harsher trials that life throws our way.
In Book 1-Blade Song Kit Colbana is a bright light as the starring character in an exciting new series for lovers of the Urban Fantasy genre, in Book 2-Night Blade that light dimmed into darkness and drug the reader into it so deep there seemed to be no way out and now in Book 3-Broken Blade Kit has taken our hand and is slowly shattering the darkness as she has begun rebuilding her fractured identity.
Once again as we descend into the world created for us by author J.C. Daniels the highly emotional tension at the end of Book 2-Night Blade fresh in our minds we are hoping that Kit can rise above the mental and physical ordeal that brought her to the brink of a despair so deep that she is still struggling to recover her indomitable will.
As always the shocks, the thrills, the action, the suspense and the sheer joy of the re-emergence of Kit over the course of the book was worth the wait thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for approval to read one of my favorite Urban Fantasy series follow-up stories! I have to say that am thankful this story is no where near the darkly painful read that the previous one became at many points in the narrative, it is nice to see that though things have changed once again for Kit they are changing in a positive way that proves once and for all that inner strength overcomes many more of life’s obstacles than we ever thought possible. Plus it also proves that the opinions of those who care for us far outweigh those who wish us harm in the long run!
Series order to read books that have released so far:
If you have not already ordered your copy do not delay you are not going to want to wait to read this one if you are already a fan of the series and if not you are missing out!
[EArc from Netgalley in exchange for honest review]
Book Info Kindle Edition, 300 pages Published November 11th 2013 by Entangled ASIN B00FCQQ1PU edition language English Book Info Kindle Edition, 300 pages Published November 11th 2013 by Entangled ASIN B00FCQQ1PU edition language English http://bittersweet.ninacroft.com/bitt...URL series The Order #2 other editions (1) Source:Netgalley EARC
Roz has been indebted to the demon Asmodai for five hundred years, and her freedom is just around the corner. All she has to do is complete one last task for him—obtain a key that had been hidden in a church centuries ago.
Piers, the Head of the Order and an ancient vampire, is intrigued by the woman who comes to him for help. She’s beautiful and seemingly kind, but she’s hiding something. And he’ll find out who she is and what she really wants once he uses his power to get inside her head. But Piers has no idea that Roz is immune to his mind-control...or that he is simply a pawn in her dangerous mission for freedom.
My Thoughts
After 500 years Roz is one step from ending her servitude to the Demon Asmodai, but of course with Roz nothing is ever simple and her last task proves that in spades!
This second book was so much easier for me to get into than the first, Roz finds herself donning a nun’s habit when she locates the whereabouts of the key that Asmodai has given her the task to find. This is not her first time in disguise but she loathes the fact that not only does she have to wear a hideous getup, complete with headpiece, she also has to appear to be meek which is so not in character!
While pursuing her retrieval of the key from the convent Roz unluckily waits a day too late and is beaten to her prize by what appear to be some really nasty demons and their master who slaughters the entire group of sisters save one Sister Maria who is left defiled but alive with strict instructions to go to London and give a message to Piers Lamont.
Piers turns out to be the head of the Order of The Shadow Accord, an organization that Roz has been warned by Asmodai to stay away from or suffer being put to death simply because she is not fully human.
This is a book of revelations for the reader as well as Roz as all unfolds we learn more of not only her background than she has ever been privy to in all her centuries but also that most of the facts she has been using as guidelines to live her life by are lies.
Roz finds herself caught up in a supernatural war that will wipe out humanity unless she and her new allies find a way to stop it from happening. A pulse pounding, suspenseful page turner that all who enjoy vampires, fae, witches and demons will get lost in easily until the very last page!,
[EArc from Netgalley in exchange for honest review]
Paperback, 236 pages Published January 31st 2013 by Parvati Press (first published January 29th 2013) original titleThe Love of My (Other) Life ISBNPaperback, 236 pages Published January 31st 2013 by Parvati Press (first published January 29th 2013) original titleThe Love of My (Other) Life ISBN 0984672621 (ISBN13: 9780984672622) edition languageEnglish other editions (3) Read from December 17 to 18, 2013 Paperback copy provided by author
Book Synopsis What worlds would you move to be with your soulmate?
Painter Tessa Barnum is struggling. Her husband left, she's broke, about to be evicted and has made some serious missteps in her career. When scruffy Brian Tennyson explodes into her life, claiming to be from an alternate universe, Tessa thinks he's a crazy vagabond ― albeit one with mysterious and undeniable appeal.
Then he informs her that in his world, they're married.
Tessa's universe is turned upside down as the truth of love and loss, victory and humiliation, and second chances comes back to her. She has to choose love over logic to reach that state of anticipation where miracles unfold.
The secret to her own life was always in her heart.
My Thoughts The cover does not fit the book but once you read the story the covers meaning is revealed so to speak and makes more sense.
Zany, humorous, sad, uplifting, this particular romance will appeal to those of us who sometimes prefer stories that are a little offbeat and a lot cerebral rather than sexy. Tessa has some major life lessons in store and some surprises along the way that will give the reader a smile while learning right along with her.
This book was both different and out of the box enough to make it unique but at the same time held a message of hope for those of us whose lives are in a rut of our own making that we can change the future if only in small ways that will make it better.
[Paperback copy provided by author in exchange for honest review]...more
Paperback, 240 pages Published October 10th 2013 by Parvati Press original title Far Shore ISBN 0989023273 (ISBN13: 9780989023276) editionBook Info
Paperback, 240 pages Published October 10th 2013 by Parvati Press original title Far Shore ISBN 0989023273 (ISBN13: 9780989023276) edition language English series After Trilogy #3 other editions (1) Source:Copy From Author Book Buy Links AMAZON B&N
BOOK SYNOPSIS
An old enemy wreaks new havoc at the end of the world…
After the mists’ lethal apocalypse, mankind’s only hope for survival lies broken and battered, the prisoner of a ruthless sociopath who will stop at nothing to hurt him. Emma sets out to rescue him. She faces an ultimatum and must relinquish everything she holds dear. As Arthur teeters on the brink of life and death, Emma’s healing ability fails. Her own despair tests her, and she must grow stronger than she ever dreamt possible as she confronts the truth of her own heart.
In a time of apocalyptic despair, love is put to the test…
A mystical odyssey, a haunting love..
My Thoughts
Throughout this series one steadfast theme has been front and center that there is still hope for the future, this hope is severely tested many times for both the characters and the reader in every book but especially so in this third installment in the trilogy!
Questions have been answered that were previously raised but there are so many answers still uncovered even as we are in the final stretch to see whether Emma chooses her husband and daughters or if her all consuming passion for Arthur will prevail. The enemy of old is stronger than ever, his hatred leads him to brutalize and maim Arthur to the point he is unrecognizable.
Emma finds herself at an impasse, she is strongly tempted to let her ties go with the band of travelers she has become so close to. However much it pains her to do so she realizes that she has no other choice but to leave her family and do her best to not only save the life of her pregnant friend but she must also do everything in her power to rescue Arthur for the sake of mankind’s future as he is the only weapon they have that can counteract and control the deadly mists.
The strenuous physical journey that Emma undertakes is nothing in comparison to the difficult mental hardships that she must also face once her goal of finding and securing Arthur is met. The man she had fallen in love with was a mere shell, mutilated, scarred and maimed almost beyond saving. The reality of what her choice may cost her if Arthur dies nearly puts Emma into shock at times, by a miracle of fate she finally finds a way to heal the wounds and Arthur is once again physically whole. His mental state however remains that of a simple and overlarge child, Emma’s despair of ever having Arthur whole mentally as well as physically leads her to make a decision she regrets and one that ultimately almost costs her to lose him forever.
As things come to their conclusion we find Arthur and Emma together with all they have shared bonding them tighter than ever! By the time the book finished I was at first heartbroken, then angry, then shocked and by the end still feel that there is so much more to be resolved but am still happy for the choice Emma made and that it worked out for her the way it did as had many a moment when not sure it would.
Book Info Paperback, 214 pages Published April 20th 2013 by Parvati Press (first published June 27th 2012) ISBN 0989023249 (ISBN13: 9780989023245) Book Info Paperback, 214 pages Published April 20th 2013 by Parvati Press (first published June 27th 2012) ISBN 0989023249 (ISBN13: 9780989023245) series After Trilogy #2 other editions (1) Source:Copy From Author
The end of the world brings chaos, madness, and psychic powers. For Emma and Arthur, separated by an ocean, it brings a love that demands everything. Emma's beloved daughter is kidnapped by vengeful raiders, and Emma embarks on a soul-crushing journey to rescue her. When Arthur finds Emma, can she trust him? Against impossible odds, Emma draws near the rogue camp, where she also confronts the deepest choice of her heart...
My Thoughts
Book 1 Fallen left us with Emma being flown away to Canada with her daughter Mandy by her husband Haywood, leaving Arthur and the rest of her newfound friends behind her as far as she knows to never be seen again.
Cold Light continues the Trilogy, once again putting the reader smack dab in the middle of the action as the first chapter starts over a year and a half later with Emma finding herself in the middle of a battle with raiders. The very nightmarish landscape that she left behind has now come to Canada and the town of Edmonton where she Haywood and their daughter Beth have been living finds itself under attack by marauding raiders and Beth is taken from her parents.
After much discussion between the pair Emma finally persuades Haywood that she alone should go out after Beth, the raiders would shoot a man on sight but a lone woman stands a much higher chance of infiltrating their camp to rescue the little girl.
Emma makes several friends along the way as she travels, some who help her more than others but always her first thought is to keep moving and locate the raiders camp to rescue Beth.
Her resourcefulness stands her in good stead once again as she uses her artistic talent to her advantage to trade for information as well as currency to use for eating and a place to stay on her journey.
The reunion between Emma, Arthur and the rest of her friends is both heartwarming as well as bittersweet because now she has once more fallen prey to the guilt that comes from the knowledge that although she loves both Arthur and her husband she cannot forsake the fact that her children need their father. Emma seems to be closer to making her final choice between Arthur and Haywood but with the rescue of her daughter Beth taking most of her energy her husband and his rival for her heart are not first priority. With the addition of several new key characters and the return of friends Emma has not seen for over a year this second story is filled with both conflict as well as new beginnings.
As much as we wish the decision would be an easy one for Emma to follow her true heart’s desire love of family seems to be winning but only time will tell when the final ending to the trilogy is revealed!
Book Info Paperback, 240 pages Published April 20th 2013 by Parvati Press (first published July 12th 2011) ISBN 0989023222 (ISBN13: 9780989023221) Book Info Paperback, 240 pages Published April 20th 2013 by Parvati Press (first published July 12th 2011) ISBN 0989023222 (ISBN13: 9780989023221) series After Trilogy #1 other editions (6) Source:Copy From Author
As chaos descends on a crippled Earth, survivors are tormented by strange psychic gifts. In this time of apocalyptic despair, love is put to the test. One woman with mysterious healing power guides eight children to safety. Charismatic Arthur offers her a haven. Slowly Emma falls for him. But at the moment of their sweetest love, his devastating secret is revealed, and they are lost to each other.
My Thoughts
As far as the genre goes this particular offering of a post apocalyptic dystopian was one that appealed to me because of the mystical side to the storyline. The fact that survivors had changed in ways that defied man’s parameters of “normal” was very unique and also gave the story a tone that was beyond most of the other books that I have enjoyed in this genre.
Needless to say there is still brutal reality that life as we know it will never be the same, however the fact that there are still people alive with the knowledge and the skills to rebuild the world anew gives the reader hope.
With an edgy strong cast of supporting as well as main characters along with some very action packed scenes that play off the survivors strengths and magnify some of their weaknesses this is a book that swept me along easily even when I did not agree with some of Emma’s decisions. The actual relationship of mutual respect and caring that develops between she and Arthur is one that gives depth to what otherwise is a very practical arrangement. Hopefully the secrets that these two are keeping from one another do not end up costing them more than they have already lost but you will have to read the story to find out for yourself.
By the end of Fallen I was very vested in the outcome and judging by the ending the next book, Bk #2 Cold Light which I am now reading, is going to have some major shocks in store for more then just Arthur and Haywood. This was a good beginning to a new kind of dystopian trilogy, one that explores boundaries not touched on yet by others that I have read. Glad author sent books two and three as well because have to see a resolution to the conflict that is looming over Emma's head.
Book Info Kindle Edition, 480 pages Expected publication: January 7th 2014 by Atria/Emily Bestler Books (first published 2011) original title Buzz ASINBook Info Kindle Edition, 480 pages Expected publication: January 7th 2014 by Atria/Emily Bestler Books (first published 2011) original title Buzz ASIN B00AYIDR9O series HP Pettersson #2 other editions (14) Source:Netgalley EARC
In the second installment in a new international thriller trilogy, a young man is on the run to escape a “game” that blurs the lines between reality and fiction.
It’s been four months since he was dragged into the Alternative Reality Game that nearly cost him his life, and HP is still on the run. He has everything he ever wished for—freedom, money, and no responsibilities, but he still isn’t happy. Plagued by insomnia and paranoia, HP misses the rush and attention of The Game. Sometimes he almost wishes the Game Master would find him.
In Dubai, HP meets Anna Argos, a sophisticated and beautiful Swedish IT millionaire. When she disappears, HP is questioned by the police. Fearing he has been found by The Game, HP returns to Sweden after being released from custody. Determined to uncover the truth about Anna’s disappearance, HP uses a fake identity to apply for a job at Argos Eye, the company Anna worked for. In the business of online information management, Argos Eye is involved in some questionable practices, under the control of Anna’s husband, the CEO Philip Argos.
Meanwhile, HP’s sister Rebecca has started dating Philip Argos. When she unknowingly reveals her brother’s real identity to Philip, the police try to bring HP in for questioning again. On the run again, HP refuses to give up and tries to uncover what is really happening at ArgosEye. Before he can find the truth, HP is stopped in his tracks. Thinking he’s about to be thrown in prison, HP is taken to the outskirts of the city and left in the woods, where an elderly man hands him a piece of paper. HP believes the game is over, but is it really just beginning?
My Thoughts
After 4 months of running, searching for the perfect high or the perfect escape into alcohol induced escape from reality HP has tired of traveling around the globe and longs to stop looking over his shoulder in fear of being found. Neither the privileges accorded him by his newfound wealth nor the most luxurious accommodations can erase his sense of isolation and loneliness for home.
HP finds himself at a stopping point in Dubai where he hooks up with a beautiful blonde, the woman agrees to go on an expedition with he and an acquaintance that he had met on his travels which results in her disappearance and HP being targeted as her murderer. A case of being in the wrong place at the wrong time with the wrong people is not as straightforward as it seems, HP soon realizes that he has been set up and also that he is in grave danger if he cannot provide proof that he did not indeed commit a crime.
Upon being able to set the police on the trail of the real criminal HP is released and returns home to Sweden, he feels that no one would be looking for him to come to his homeland and he feels a burning need to uncover the truth about what happened to Anna Argos to which end he creates the perfect opportunity for himself when he becomes the newest employee of Argos Eye. However once again HP discovers that he has gotten involved way over his head, especially when his new employer inadvertently discovers his real identity.
The story lines once again take two different tangents, that of HP and his chaotic searching for the truths that may or may not finally set him free from the clutches of the Game and it’s hypnotic ability to ensnare him and that of his sister Rebecca as she herself becomes an unwitting pawn.
The way in which the author patiently reveals the true purpose of the Game is both thrilling and terrifying, seeing how both HP and Rebecca navigate each hurdle that crops up in their path takes patience as they slowly but surely come closer to solving the mystery of why the two of them have been targeted by the Game Master and thrown into a world that neither one is prepared for where no one can be trusted and anyone could be the enemy the pair is trying to evade!
Book 3, Bubble: A Thriller hopefully will answer all the questions raised throughout the previous two books and provide a satisfactory conclusion for both HP and his sister Rebecca as well. I guess we all have to read on and find out for ourselves. Regardless things are for sure becoming very interesting as the story progresses!
[EArc from Netgalley in exchange for honest review]
Book Info Paperback, 304 pages Expected publication: December 3rd 2013 by Harlequin (first published December 1st 2013) ISBN 0373885849 (ISBN13:Book Info Paperback, 304 pages Expected publication: December 3rd 2013 by Harlequin (first published December 1st 2013) ISBN 0373885849 (ISBN13: 9780373885848) series Nightsiders #2, Harlequin Nocturne #174 other editions (1) Source:Netgalley EARC
In the Nightsiders miniseries, New York Times bestselling author Susan Krinard delves into two very different worlds, each filled with lust and power
Rumors of war are rumbling in the vampire city of Erebus. Undercover agent Trinity Ward must pose as a blood slave to unearth the truth and keep the peace between vampires and humans. Acting now as a serf to Ares, a powerful Bloodmaster Trinity must give herself to him.
Yet one look into his striking eyes turns submission into burning desire. The fiery beauty has the same effect on Ares, but as their passion grows so do the risks. Now Trinity's betrayal could cost her the mission and the man she loves.
This is another story that had so many characters to keep track of that it at times became a bit overwhelming, as did the rigid rules that the Opir culture enforced very strictly.
Once again the world building was excellent though, the sights, sounds, surroundings and the different members of the Opir culture were painted very well and became familiar fairly quickly once the story progressed.
Ares proved to be a very unique Bloodmaster and Trinity grew to understand that as one of the Nightsider race he was one who wielded his power with a “velvet fist” rather than an “iron glove” as a harmonious household was his main goal.
The premise of this book was pretty simple, send in an undercover agent to find out if war was imminent between vampires and humans. The actual execution of the mission became a lot more complicated very soon after Trinity arrived. Her actual desire to attract the strongest Bloodmaster almost backfired when the sadistic Palemon decided to claim her for his serf, luckily Ares stepped in and challenged the other vampire for the right to add her to his own household.
This is a paranormal romance that rivals the idea of Romeo and Juliet as star crossed lovers, while I agree that it works out in the end the convoluted lies and evasions by both Ares and Trinity almost proved to be too much to overcome. To be honest watching the relationship unfold between the pair was at times a chore, they just had too much baggage between them that made it hard to really care if they ever admitted their true feelings.
I am not going to pursue this series further, while it has it’s merits for the paranormal lover in me the love that I have for earlier works of the the author is not happening and rather than going forward if more books are written in this world am better off spending my time on something that I do not struggle quite so hard to finish.
[EArc from Netgalley in exchange for honest review]
Book Info ebook, 267 pages Expected publication: December 17th 2013 by Ink Monster, LLC original title Becoming Alpha (Alpha Girl) ISBN 139780989405010 Book Info ebook, 267 pages Expected publication: December 17th 2013 by Ink Monster, LLC original title Becoming Alpha (Alpha Girl) ISBN 139780989405010 edition language English series Alpha Girl #1 other editions (1) Source:Netgalley EARC
Tessa McCaide has a unique talent for getting into trouble. Then again, it isn’t easy for a girl with visions to ignore what she sees. Luckily Tessa and her family are leaving California and moving halfway across the country, giving her the perfect opportunity to leave her reputation as “Freaky Tessa” behind.
But Tessa doesn’t realize that kissing the wrong guy in her new Texas town could land her in far more trouble than she ever imagined. Like being forced to attend St. Ailbe’s Academy, a secret boarding school for werewolves.
Even if the wrong guy did accidentally turn her into one of “them” and doom her to attending the weirdest high school ever, Tessa can’t help her growing attraction to the mysterious Dastien Laurent.
When vampires attack St. Alibe’s and her visions pinpoint an enemy in their midst, Tessa realizes that boy drama and her newfound canine tendencies might just be the least of her problems.
My Thoughts
When we think of werewolves we usually think of a human who has been bitten who turns into a ravenous bloodthirsty flesh eating beast when they change for the first time. While this is true in many series this time the author has chosen to mix things up by showcasing “born Weres” as well as “turned Weres” who just so happen to live outside the Texas town that Tessa and her family move to from California.
Tessa McCaide has lived her whole life feeling like she has to be apart from others thanks to her “visions”, after all it is hard to hug someone or even shake their hand if you know that you will be privy to that persons memories and of course kissing is totally off the table so now as a teenager her social life has really hit rock bottom.
The night before leaving for their new home an hour outside Austin, where her older brother Axel will be going to college, Tessa’s parents throw a party for former clients of her Dad as well as neighbors and friends. Having found Tessa alone in her room her brother cons her into coming downstairs just to make a quick appearance and scope out a young male actor that she has a secret crush on. Doing so against her better judgement ends up proving to Tessa once more that mingling in a crowd was not the wisest choice much to her dismay.
Once the trip is over and the McCaide family make it to their new home they are met by Michael Dawson the head of St. Ailbe’s Academy and Tessa’s fathers new boss. Along with Mr. Dawson is a former student who has graduated, Dastien Laurent, who is strikingly good looking and immediately intriguing to Tessa although she does not wish to explain to anyone why.
As a werewolf fan from way back this was a very nice beginning to what I hope continues to be a strong character driven series, the way that the plot unfolds was enjoyable as well as just different enough to stand out in the genre and the fact this is geared toward younger readers makes it exceptionally fun when we are introduced to the rest of the attendees of St. Ailbe’s Academy.
While the relationship between Tessa and Dastien followed the tried and true formula of many paranormal romances it still had its own unique presentation and for me it was awesome to watch unfold as was the way in which the author allowed Tessa to come to grips with her change in circumstances.
The vampires were creepy and not at all the seductive creatures that they are usually portrayed as, rather they are more true to form as the villain who has come to the Academy in one aim which is to eradicate the Werewolves.
This is an easy read, well paced with lots of internal angst as well as dialogue between the characters that allows the reader to follow for themselves exactly what is going on at any given moment without giving away what will happen next.
As an author that is new to me Aileen Erin has penned a very satisfactory urban fantasy whose world and characters will be very happy to revisit in book 2 Avoiding Alpha!
[EArc from Netgalley in exchange for honest review]
Book Info Paperback, 224 pages Expected publication: December 17th 2013 by Harlequin ISBN 0373797842 (ISBN13: 9780373797844) other editions None found Book Info Paperback, 224 pages Expected publication: December 17th 2013 by Harlequin ISBN 0373797842 (ISBN13: 9780373797844) other editions None found Source:Netgalley EARC
Ever since his father's famous bank robbery years ago, rodeo cowboy Jesse James Chisholm has been the bad boy of Lost Gun, Texas. A rule breaker. A heartbreaker. But he's still haunted by his history, and the only girl who could match his wildness with her own—until she ditched her own bad-girl ways in favour of respectability….
But mayor-elect Gracie Jones isn't quite the upstanding role model she projects. Underneath those conservative skirts and blouses? Very naughty underthings. Jesse's return has stirred not only her long-slumbering wild side, but an insatiable hunger for this rugged, sexy cowboy. And this Texas town is going to see a side of the Wild West they never expected.
My Thoughts
Jesse James Chisholm embodies the charismatic cowboy whose rugged sexy devil-may-care exterior houses a heart that yearns for acceptance in a town filled with narrow minded people that have long labeled him as not worth their notice, unless it is to make a disparaging comment about his family! Now his dreams of having his own business in Austin are close to reality yet Jesse finds himself strangely reluctant to leave Lost Gun for good thanks to unfinished business between he and Gracie.
Gracie Jones along with her younger sister was orphaned and then raised by their Aunt and Uncle. Gracie spent her formative years rebelling against convention and dreaming of the day she finally left Lost Gun in her dust. She and Jesse had a hot and heavy time together until the day she got the news her older brother had been killed in the line of duty, from that moment on the bad-girl became the model of decorum.
Living as a model citizen of Lost Gun may not be the exact life that Gracie had once envisioned but she is determined for her sisters sake to provide a stable home so if that means her own wants, needs and desires are put on indefinite hold so be it.
Now here it is 12 years later and Jesse is a top-notch record setting Bull Rider on the rodeo circuit and Gracie has become the newly elected Mayor of Lost Gun, will their past fiery fling rekindle or is it too late for them to finally realize that they have already spent too much time apart?
Read this humorous, fast paced, laugh out loud deliciously steamy tale and find out for yourself if Gracie finds the inner courage to grab the “bull by the horns” and hang onto Jesse ASAP!
[EArc from Netgalley in exchange for honest review]
Book Info ebook, 260 pages Published October 1st 2013 by Forever ISBN 1455573795 (ISBN13: 9781455573790) edition language English series Love in theBook Info ebook, 260 pages Published October 1st 2013 by Forever ISBN 1455573795 (ISBN13: 9781455573790) edition language English series Love in the Balance #2 Source:Netgalley EARC
ONCE BURNED Sadie Howard never dates a guy more than once-but Fate has other plans for her when it comes to Aiden Downey, the one that got away. Aiden loved her, left her, and broke her heart. Yet suddenly she's bumping into him at every turn, driven to distraction by his wicked grin and rock-hard body. Now she can't resist finishing what they started-as long as she doesn't let herself fall in love . . .
TWICE AS TEMPTING Aiden Downey threw away the best thing he ever had when he let Sadie go, and now he's determined to win back the woman he's always wanted. Sadie agrees to let him into her life-and her bed-as long as there are no strings attached. But Aiden's not about to make the same mistake again. Can he convince her to take a second chance on a once-in-a-lifetime love?
My Thoughts
Aiden and Sadie for me are a perfect example of the best kind of couple in contemporary romance, their honesty with each other along with the totally off the charts chemistry make them very easy to root for and very easy to feel comfortable with in the way one does with a longtime friend.
The main thing that hooked me on believing in the pair as a couple was their ability to accept each other for who they were without wanting them to be someone that fit a mold that society or their family members deemed acceptable.
Aiden was the only man in her life that ever took the time to actually enjoy Sadie's company and to make her feel at ease rather than like she had to be on her guard all the time, that was something that endeared him instantly.
Do not be fooled this was not a simple case of two characters who fell in love and then hit a rough spot, the intensely emotional heartache that caused their breakup was a decision that any of us would have had a hard time dealing with and even though it was handled badly on both their parts their second chance at being happy together more than made up for it!
It was a long hard road for these two with lots of misunderstandings, misgivings and second guessing! The final HEA was worth waiting for as these two worked hard for it.
Book Info ebook, 64 pages Published September 3rd 2013 by Forever Yours original title Can't Let Go ISBN 1455581739 (ISBN13: 9781455581733) edition Book Info ebook, 64 pages Published September 3rd 2013 by Forever Yours original title Can't Let Go ISBN 1455581739 (ISBN13: 9781455581733) edition language English seriesLove in the Balance #1.5 other editions None found Source:Netgalley EARC
Can't Let Go is a PREQUEL novella to Hard to Handle, a "before" the happily ever after...
A LOVE IN THE BALANCE NOVELLA
AN INSTANT SPARK Sadie Howard would never admit there's such a thing as love at first sight, but she can't deny the connection between her and sexy Adonis Aiden Downey. She also can't deny she loves to kiss him-his mouth might be his most precious asset. Despite every promise to herself not to get involved any deeper than a first date, she can't keep from seeing more of Aiden . . . in more ways than one.
Aiden Downey had no idea the hot blonde from the club would trigger his protective, gentle nature, but the moment she drops her guard and he sees the real Sadie Howard, he's a goner. When a family crisis puts the brakes on their budding romance, can Aiden find a way to hold on to her? Or will he lose the best thing in his life just as quickly as he found her? 25,000 words
My Thoughts
In my opinion Can't Let Go is a must read prior to book 2 in the series Hard to Handle because the back story to Sadie and Aiden's story is very important in setting up the story line in the 2nd book. Having never read the first book in the series we already missed the initial setup to the series and it would be best not to go any further with this particular couple without getting the full details on the beginning of their relationship and the reason why they broke up.
I think you can safely say that a lot of this is covered in the full length novel after having read it but to me it is just a better idea to wait to read Hard to Handle (Love in the Balance #2) after having gotten the full details of Aiden and Sadie's romance.
Can promise you it is well worth your time to read the novella, you will enjoy their full length story more if you do!
Book Info Kindle Edition, 288 pages Expected publication: December 24th 2013 by Little, Brown Books for Young Readers ASIN B00CO7FI0E edition languageBook Info Kindle Edition, 288 pages Expected publication: December 24th 2013 by Little, Brown Books for Young Readers ASIN B00CO7FI0E edition language English other editions (6) Source:Netgalley EARC
When East Coast native Elizabeth receives her freshman-year roommate assignment, she shoots off an e-mail to coordinate the basics: television, microwave, mini-fridge. That first note to San Franciscan Lauren sparks a series of e-mails that alters the landscape of each girl's summer -- and raises questions about how two girls who are so different will ever share a dorm room.
As the countdown to college begins, life at home becomes increasingly complex. With family relationships and childhood friendships strained by change, it suddenly seems that the only people Elizabeth and Lauren can rely on are the complicated new boys in their lives . . . and each other. Even though they've never met.
National Book Award finalist Sara Zarr and acclaimed author Tara Altebrando join forces for a novel about growing up, leaving home, and getting that one fateful e-mail that assigns your college roommate.
My Thoughts
Elizabeth or EB to her friends and Lauren share one thing in common, they are both looking forward to leaving home to attend college now that they have graduated high school. Their lives are very different as Elizabeth is an only child and Lauren has a houseful of younger siblings that she is helping her parents take care of while working to save for college.
The way the story uses different POV couched in the emails exchanged between EB and Lauren, interactions with their friends and the girl’s innermost thoughts as their summer countdown to start of college provides the reader with unique insight as well as showing that using technology can be a freeing way to share oneself but at the same time not as satisfying as actual physical one on one communication.
The changes both Elizabeth and Lauren go through over the summer include finding out not only do they actually have a lot more in common than they thought at first but that the very differences in their lives give them something to be thankful for, even when they do not feel that way. Having grown up in a household with only one parent and as an only child EB envies the chaotic but love filled homelife described by Lauren, while Lauren on the other hand feels at times that she would have been much happier without brothers and sisters.
It always amuses me when people feel that someone else has it better than they do, it is only when they are admitted “behind the scenes” that they understand that it is not always true as appearances can certainly be decieving!
Those crazy hazy summer days between high school and college are captured perfectly and both Lauren and Elizabeth's perspectives prior to leaving home are captured eloquently as well.
[EArc from Netgalley in exchange for honest review]
Book Info ebook, 240 pages Expected publication: February 25th 2014 by Roaring Brook Press original title Tin Star ISBN 1596439149 (ISBN13:Book Info ebook, 240 pages Expected publication: February 25th 2014 by Roaring Brook Press original title Tin Star ISBN 1596439149 (ISBN13: 9781596439146) edition language English other editions (2) Source:Netgalley EARC
On their way to start a new life, Tula and her family travel on the Prairie Rose, a colony ship headed to a planet in the outer reaches of the galaxy. All is going well until the ship makes a stop at a remote space station, the Yertina Feray, and the colonist's leader, Brother Blue, beats Tula within an inch of her life. An alien, Heckleck, saves her and teaches her the ways of life on the space station.
When three humans crash land onto the station, Tula's desire for escape becomes irresistible, and her desire for companionship becomes unavoidable. But just as Tula begins to concoct a plan to get off the space station and kill Brother Blue, everything goes awry, and suddenly romance is the farthest thing from her mind.
My Thoughts
The story of 17-year-old Tula Bane spans a period of several years and starts when she reveals that she knows something she was not supposed to with the end result of her being beaten, left for dead and then abandoned on the remote space station of Yertina Feray. The only human amongst the multitude of aliens who inhabit the space station Tula luckily is found, revived and healed by the station’s doctor and later on befriended by the sole Hort named Heckleck who not only helps her by giving Tula employment but teaching her about the other alien species as well.
Soon the pair have a thriving business between them, making both Tula and Heckleck enough to live on as well as giving them both at least one ally to count on amongst the others who live in the underbelly of the space station.
I thought the book was a bit slow paced and then it became a bit rushed when action started to happen, Tula is the main character and allowing us to see everything through her eyes the entire book makes it fairly narrow in scope but at the same time since she stated from the beginning her knowledge of the rest of the world was limited this makes sense, also when things change and she finally has other humans living on the space station it becomes very obvious that Tula has become more of an “alien” herself as she does not really know how to interact any other way anymore.
The way in which Tula adapts, while fighting not only the loneliness that comes from being the only one of her kind but the depression of losing her mother and sister, is a testimony to the resilience most humans are capable of but never utilize since their lives follow a logical orderly path.
Not a fan of the ending, there was no true resolution but since this seems to be the beginning of Tula’s adventure it may prove that someday the intrigue that she has uncovered will be dealt with later on in another book.
Not a bad beginning to a series but not really something I am wanting to pursue further as it was not exciting enough to want find out more about what happens and there are too many other books on my wishing to read list that are waiting for me to dive into. I found myself torn while reading and kept putting this book down within a 20 day period and finding something else with the pace and action to keep me enthralled from beginning to end so apparently Tula Bane’s story was not for me after all.
[EArc from Netgalley in exchange for honest review]
Book Info Paperback, 220 pages Published March 25th 2013 by Createspace ISBN 1481925628 (ISBN13: 9781481925624) Source:From authorin exchange for honestBook Info Paperback, 220 pages Published March 25th 2013 by Createspace ISBN 1481925628 (ISBN13: 9781481925624) Source:From authorin exchange for honest review
Chaos reigns around the world. Strange creatures, accorded the title "Phantom Ninjas" by the media, are leaping off tall buildings and somersaulting back up without any scratch - and then disappear. There follows more spontaneous acts of magic, confounding the world. Who - or what - is responsible? In the middle of the mystery arrives Detective Hetfield, a private investigator just recently retired from the FBI, who is accustomed to fame as a star witness in the murder trial of a beloved actress. Hetfield, seeking ever more celebrity to boost his profile, uses the media to put forward the theory that a person of extraordinary magical powers is behind all the incidents, and labels him Dr. Magic. Hetfield gets much more than what he bargained for when that powerful being does exist - in the form of a young man long disillusioned with his past - and cruelly takes him up on his offer.
For lovers of witty and light-hearted wizard stories involving magic.
My Thoughts
What initially led me to accepting a copy of this book from the author was the aspect of a magical being, the hint that it was a wizard causing the inevitable media circus and the character of Detective Hetfield actually reminded me of one that I had watched in a movie about a police detective who was also a "fame monger". Put all those bits and pieces together and believe it or not the author has pulled off a pretty entertaining story!
Although this is a thoroughly fun read it also has serious overtones as well which lend credibility to it's final outcome. Detective Tony Hetfield reminds me of a cross between investigative reporter Carl Kolchak in the Nightstalker television series, Detective Columbo and fictitious P.I. Remington Steele. Tony is a composite of the unrelenting determination of Kolchak to discover the truth no matter how bizarre, the ability to ferret out leads that others overlook with a canniness born of good investigative skills like Columbo and like the egotistical Remington Steele the skillful use of his charm and good looks to lull people into trusting him with information they would not normally divulge to others.
I have to admit that the entire time reading this book was like watching a Marvel Comics movie! It had the "larger than life" action scenes like something off the big screen and the intellectual appeal that will attract readers to not only Tony Hetfield but Dr Magic as well as both characters are very proficient at the real life game of chess they are playing, the only question in the readers mind is who will reach checkmate first?
Like others before me it is best to leave a lot out so as not to spoil the mystery of "Dr Magic" but the journey you will undertake as Detective Hetfield unravels the true origin and identity of this "prankster" is one you will not want to miss. Like myself and others who have enjoyed the unique aspects created by the author as he pits Hetfield against Magic the book will provide you with an excellent escape from reality for the time it takes to read the story. For myself that is a great incentive and I think it is the same for anyone else who enjoys fantasy as well.
Different than the usual sci-fi fantasy that I read as this one provides a unique paranormal twist to the main character's storyline. I have to say that would have finished quicker if had fewer interruptions the day I actually started the book as at a little over 200 pages it was very fast reading. My thanks to Scott for his initial query about reading the book, just wish could have gotten to it sooner.
Book Info Paperback, 352 pages Expected publication: January 28th 2014 by Harlequin (first published October 1st 2013) ISBN 0373892705 (ISBN13:Book Info Paperback, 352 pages Expected publication: January 28th 2014 by Harlequin (first published October 1st 2013) ISBN 0373892705 (ISBN13: 9780373892709) edition language English other editions None found Source:Netgalley EARC
No surgery. No medication. No drastic measures. Just healthy joints for life!
In this groundbreaking book, leading orthopedic surgeon and former NFL player Richard Diana, M.D., applies his unique experience and training to tackle join pain. Based on cutting-edge research that has clarified the crucial role of a molecule known as NFkB in regulating inflammation, Dr. Diana's proven eight-week program teaches you to harness the power of this research to reduce inflammation, relieve pain and rejuvenate your joints.
THIS SCIENTIFICALLY-BACKED PROGRAM INCLUDES:
• Which delicious foods reduce inflammation
• Simple exercises tailored to your ability
• The right supplements to help increase your mobility
My Thoughts
As a person who is feeling the daily effects of inflammation pain this book seemed like just the thing I needed to read to help me in my quest to relieve one of the pitfalls a person living with Multiple Sclerosis battles. I soon found that if followed exactly my entire kitchen would have to be emptied of every processed food stuff that my family and myself consume. Needless to say some of those items will never leave my pantry, refrigerator or freezer shelves but the good part is that with the breakdown of what items are helpful to combat inflammations effects some things can be done away with over time rather than all at once!
Dr. Diana has penned what could be for many of us a wonderful life changing step into taking control of one’s pain from inflamed joints. I feel that although the science in this book far outweighs the common man’s vernacular, if you take it as a whole, there is no reason why with time and dedication to the outlined program using it to change to a healthier lifestyle the program would be of great benefit.
My downfall was the fact that rather than a paperback hard copy this was a digital ARC which, in my own opinion, does not lend itself well to making a good guide for anyone to follow. The information contained within seems to be sound, pretty basic and straight forward to follow but again without the ease of flipping “real pages” it for me would be a waste of space on my Kindle and something that unless I actually bought the hard copy paperback book version to refer back to easily would probably never be utilized.
The facts are laid out in a manner that while a bit dry does help to create an understanding of the why, the what and the how inflammation occurs. More importantly the points made by including actual examples reinforce just how important it is to start taking seriously how debilitating inflammation can be and in most patients lives already is!
While the advice and guidelines that the author has formulated do not involve a degree to implement them this is a time intensive and, perhaps for some, maybe even a very expensive change to make. It all boils down to whether we are willing to put our health first so that we have better quality of life once those inevitable changes brought about by age start to catch up with us in our later years.
[EArc from Netgalley in exchange for honest review]
Book Info Hardcover, 348 pages Expected publication: December 11th 2013 by Five Star (ME) ISBN 1432827316 (ISBN13: 9781432827311) other editions (1) Book Info Hardcover, 348 pages Expected publication: December 11th 2013 by Five Star (ME) ISBN 1432827316 (ISBN13: 9781432827311) other editions (1) Source:EARC from Author
Lying with Strangers is the provocative story of two very different women and the tragic event that brings them together, opening the door to second chances. Against her better judgment, Chloe Henderson becomes the unwitting accomplice to a murder committed by her boyfriend. The victim's grief-stricken wife is shocked to discover the lies and secrets her husband has kept from her. When her young son plows into Chloe with his bike, the women's lives become entwined in ways neither of them could have imagined. Joel Richards, an enthusiastic young journalist covering recent developments in an old murder, has his own reasons for being interested in the victim, and in Chloe.
My Thoughts
The choices we make define the consequences we have to live with. What if those choices led to a chain of events that tore apart every belief you had about the life you had been living? What if those same choices endangered your future? What choice would you make, to tell the truth or to lie and take your chances on never being found out? These are the questions asked of Diana Walker and Chloe Henderson and the answers may surprise you more than you expect them too!
This story is built in stages, with each stage leading into the other seamlessly. The different characters come together to form a group who is bound by the secrets and lies of the past but held together by the hopes and dreams of the future.
More than just a murder mystery thriller this tale is full of rich insights into human nature that we can all learn a lesson from, especially the one that holds true that if it sounds too good to be true than it probably is not the truth. Filled with tension and suspense, tears and sorrow as well as joy and laughter this is a heartwarming look into the lives of fictional people who become real as we follow along with them on their journey to the truth.
A twisted web of deceit and murder tempered with hopeful new beginnings.
Book Info ebook, 250 pages Expected publication: October 7th 2013 by Entangled: Brazen ISBN 1622663497 (ISBN13: 9781622663491) series Shaken Dirty otherBook Info ebook, 250 pages Expected publication: October 7th 2013 by Entangled: Brazen ISBN 1622663497 (ISBN13: 9781622663491) series Shaken Dirty other editions None found Source:Publisher
Jamison Matthews has lusted after Ryder Montgomery since she was a preteen. But now that Ryder and her brother's band, Shaken Dirty, has made it huge, she's just one of many pining for the brooding lead singer. Too bad Ryder still sees her as a little sister. Not that it matters. Her brother would never allow it, and the last thing Jamison wants is to be another notch on a rock star's bed post. Even if it's Ryder's.
Ryder doesn't deserve happiness. After his fame destroyed his last girlfriend, he swore he'd never fall in love again. So when Jamison, the girl he's been in danger of loving for years, joins the band on the road, he'll do anything to deny the sparks between them--even after one hot night together. But Jamison is determined to show Ryder that he's worthy of love--her love--and that she's all grown up and ready to play.
My Thoughts
[On a personal note growing up in the time of MTV and VH1 watching rock music videos it was so easy to "feed" my fantasies with the long haired, tattooed, pierced and physically ripped male specimens who filled my television screen daily and my dreams nightly.
My own personal real life crush however was on the young man who lived down the street from us. His long brown hair/tight jeans/tighter tees, sexy guitar playing, rock music singing self was only a few years older than me but in our small South Texas town his (in my naive eyes) "worldly experience" was very appealing to a girl who lived a very sheltered life thanks to a very overprotective father.
Despite misgivings that same "Rock God" and I have been married close to 32 years, he still wears tight jeans and plays and sings rock and roll music and I still have a "crush" on him for it all these years later! Good thing he does not mind my "crush" on book characters like Ryder, right?]
Rock bands and their "bad boy members" have long been some of my favorite lead male characters in a contemporary romance. Ryder Montgomery personifies such a character, right down to the tight jeans and tees that hug every delicious inch of the "rock god" front man for the mythical band "Shaken Dirty"!
Jamison Matthews for all intents and purposes is pretty much treated like the kid sister of the bands members, Ryder in particular seems to want to never remove her from that status and after 10 long years of being in love with her big brothers best friend she is determined to at long last prove she is a grown woman who knows her own heart's desire!
My favorite scenes between Jamison and Ryder brought me to tears as the emotions portrayed were so raw and so real that you just want so badly for the two to work out as they totally belong together.
With what happened in his past Ryder feels like he can never take a chance on hurting Jamison and he constantly pushes her away time and time again. Here is his explanation: The chemistry between him and Jamison might suddenly be off the charts, but that didn’t mean there could be something between them. Because there couldn’t be. He wouldn’t allow there to be.
Later on in the story there are a couple of scenes where Jamison feels lacking and unsure that what Ryder feels for her is more than just base lust, you will melt like I did:
She felt beautiful when he looked at her like that, when he touched her and held her and stroked her like she was the only woman in the world. She knew it was a lie, knew he’d probably be with another woman before the week ended, but she couldn’t bring herself to care. Not when he was looking at her like she was his whole world.
He stopped kissing her abruptly, tilted his head up until those gorgeous onyx eyes of his blazed into her own. “Jamison?” he asked, his voice still husky with desire. “Are you okay?” And just that easily, she relaxed. Hearing him say her name, knowing she was more to him than some nameless, faceless body soothed her as nothing else could have.
He smiled then and her heart stuttered a little in her chest. Because it wasn’t the smile he gave the hoards of screaming fans, wasn’t the smile he gave the other guys or his friends or even the women he slept with. She’d seen all those smiles a hundred—a thousand—times through the years. No, this was his Jamison smile. The one he kept just for her, and the fact that he was giving it to her now helped settle her like nothing else could.
Time on the road together brings Jamison closer to the entire band, each member having at some point in her life helping her through a few milestones of girlhood thus cementing their place as friends she could count on when needed. Jamison had missed that since the band's career started to take off and their touring took them on the road for long stretches of time.
Taken out of context of the intimate moments between Jamison and Ryder these snippets of scenes in no way completely convey the intensity that comes through as you read the story but they do give a glimpse of just how passionately sincere the characters emotions are, particularly this heartfelt confession Ryder makes to Jamison when he realizes just how much she has come to mean to him despite his best intentions:
"I never knew I could feel about anyone the way I feel about you. It’s so huge, so monumental, that it terrifies me. Because you see me. You see all the way inside of me to places nobody else even knows exist. And I can’t understand, can’t imagine, what someone like you could possibly see in someone like me.”
The author touched upon the band members relationships briefly, more so their individual backgrounds with Jamison which explained why they were all so protective of her, and I look forward to the further exploration of each character in future works about the group as they release. As a longtime fan of rock'n'roll and the "bad boys and girls" behind the music this contemporary friends to lovers romance hit every emotion and it has the potential for a series to rival that of one that I have loved since the beginning of Sinners On Tour written by author Olivia Cunning, without being quite as raunchy but still holding it's own and looking forward to the rest of the band members tales in future!
[E-Copy from Publisher in exchange for honest review]
Book Info Kindle Edition, 304 pages Published November 26th 2013 by Harlequin Teen original title Pawn ASIN B00DPAN5E0 series The Blackcoat Rebellion #1 Book Info Kindle Edition, 304 pages Published November 26th 2013 by Harlequin Teen original title Pawn ASIN B00DPAN5E0 series The Blackcoat Rebellion #1 other editions (6) Source:Netgalley EARC
For Kitty Doe, it seems like an easy choice. She can either spend her life as a III in misery, looked down upon by the higher ranks and forced to leave the people she loves, or she can become a VII and join the most powerful family in the country.
If she says yes, Kitty will be Masked - surgically transformed into Lila Hart, the Prime Minister's niece, who died under mysterious circumstances. As a member of the Hart family, she will be famous. She will be adored. And for the first time, she will matter.
There's only one catch. She must also stop the rebellion that Lila secretly fostered, the same one that got her killed, and one Kitty believes in. Faced with threats, conspiracies and a life that's not her own, she must decide which path to choose and learn how to become more than a pawn in a twisted game she's only beginning to understand.
My Thoughts
Living at poverty level along with a group of other “Extras” that share her low rank in society Kitty Doe resents the fact that most American citizens are treated as lesser by the Elitist ruling society. Having failed to make a good showing on the mandatory “ranking exam” that everyone undergoes at age 17, given a III instead of scoring high and being given a IV or above, Kitty decides that life in sewer maintenance and being shipped off to live in Denver Colorado is not something that she will accept as she holds out hope that her boyfriend 16 year-old Benjy will score a V or a VI when he turns 17 in a little over a month so they can marry and be together.
Kitty has a sort of friend by the name of Tab who makes a living as a prostitute, the two plan to get Kitty a job working the streets also so that she can stay in DC until Benjy takes his ranking test. Having made the decision Kitty sets things up with Tab, against Benjy’s wishes, as she sees no other way to stay close and make a living.
Kitty finds her plans changing when she is offered an alternative by the Prime Minister, being Masked to look like Lila Hart and given the designation of a VII sounds like something that could possibly lead to the life that Kitty thought she would never experience. However as with all things that sound too good to be true Kitty soon finds herself caught up in a power play that could cost her everyone and everything she holds dear.
Kitty Doe is not as strong of a character as had hoped for but faced with the reality of her situation she begins to understand that she still has the ability to be more than a game piece that has no say in what she does or does not do, especially when she unearths the very astonishing truth that the Matriarch of the Hart family has managed to hide from almost everyone.
This is a new twist on revenge being served cold, it proves that sometimes what we wish for is not exactly what we get and most of all it shows that even when things look quite bleak we can perhaps find a way to turn circumstances to our advantage.
I honestly feel that in the ranks of the Dystopian Genre this book and series will find a niche and a following however for me even though know it has much more to offer in future stories am not planning on pursuing it further.
[EArc from Netgalley in exchange for honest review]
Book Info Kindle Edition, 97 pages Published September 15th 2013 by Harlequin ASIN B00D45018E edition language English other editions (2) Source:NetgalleyBook Info Kindle Edition, 97 pages Published September 15th 2013 by Harlequin ASIN B00D45018E edition language English other editions (2) Source:Netgalley EARC
From New York Times bestselling author Lauren Dane comes the latest release from Cosmo Red-Hot Reads from Harlequin.
She won’t be satisfied with just one bite...
Art student-slash-bike messenger Wren Davis pursues what she wants. And what she wants now is Gregori Ivanov, rock star of the Seattle art scene. With his tattoos, piercings and sensual sneer, Gregori is the ultimate bad boy. Wren’s gotten to know the man beneath the body art, too—and it only makes her crave him more.
But Gregori loves women like he loves cake and champagne—intensely, but only for the moment. And after Wren experiences just how scorching sex with Gregori is, she’s determined to show him that just one taste won’t be enough...
My Thoughts
Okay so I am a sucker for a sexy accent, sue me!
Gregori Ivanov embodies pretty much every good thing that Lauren Dane creates when she pens a male leading character, the man is good looking without being a "pretty boy", he has a nicely proportioned and healthily defined body, his tattoos are striking, his sense of humor is a bit skewed to the naughty, he is artistic, his sexual prowess is off the charts hot and he has made his own fortune from his talents.
Wren Davis is not a typical female like others in Gregori's circle, she has her own mind, loves to laugh, can hold her own in a conversation about what she does and does not like about his creations and most of all she only wants him for himself and not what he can do for her or what he can give her.
As short as this story is it still has the ability to pull you into the characters emotions, it lets us learn just enough about both their motivations for their actions to connect with Gregori and Wren's POV and most of all it gives fans of the author exactly the kind of flirtatious naughty sexy read that we expect from one of her works!
[EArc from Netgalley in exchange for honest review]
Book Info Kindle Edition, 367 pages Published August 31st 2013 by John A. Heldt ASIN B00EWTMO7W edition language English characters Kevin Johnson, SarahBook Info Kindle Edition, 367 pages Published August 31st 2013 by John A. Heldt ASIN B00EWTMO7W edition language English characters Kevin Johnson, Sarah Thompson setting Wallace, Idaho, 1910 (United States) other editions None found Source:Authorin exchange for honest review
When Kevin Johnson, 22, goes to Wallace, Idaho, days after his college graduation, he expects to find rest and relaxation as his family prepares his deceased grandfather's house for sale. Then he discovers a hidden diary and a time portal that can take him to 1910, the year of Halley's comet and the largest wildfire in U.S. history. Within hours, Kevin finds himself in the era of horse-drawn wagons, straw hats, and ankle-length dresses. Returning to the same time and place, he decides to travel again and again and make the portal his gateway to summer fun. The adventure takes a more serious turn, however, when the luckless-in-love science major falls for pretty English teacher Sarah Thompson and integrates himself in a community headed for tragedy. Filled with humor, romance, and heartbreak, THE FIRE, the sequel to THE JOURNEY, follows a conflicted soul through a life-changing journey as he makes his mark on a world he was never meant to see.
My Thoughts
In The Mine Joel Smith goes back in time to 1941, in The Journey Michelle Preston goes to 1979, in The Show we find Grace Vandenberg taking her destiny in her own hands by following Joel Smith into the year 2000. Now Kevin Johnson takes his own journey into the past by heading to 1910 in The Fire where he meets and falls in love with not just one but two young women. Having to choose between Sadie Hawkins and Sarah Thompson was an eye opener for Kevin, both ladies fulfilled Kevin in different ways but only one of them captured his soul completely.
As has been said before Kevin Johnson was not an “accidental traveler”, his passage through time was thought out after his initial trip was successful. Kevin very cleverly availed himself of a rented period costume, packed a suitcase with modern toothpaste/deoderant/razor/underwear and enough currency that could be used in 1910 to allow him to live comfortably while he was there.
This era of horse and buggy was indeed a simpler time where Kevin found himself fully embracing the opportunities presented to him and in the end also finds himself finally at ease with what he wants and who he is becoming!
While the romance aspects of the book were engaging the entire story was filled with delightful insights into Kevin’s maturing into a more rounded person as he learns that his choices impact those around him just as much as they do his own self, and in some cases in ways that resonate through time for many years!
This 4th book in the Northwest Passage series, like the 3 before it, was greatly enjoyed from start to finish. Kevin Johnson is a superbly fleshed out character and as others have said getting to catch up with previous characters a bit was much appreciated as was the introduction of such a wonderful supporting group of characters met in this latest book.
[Digital copy from Authorin exchange for honest review]
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