Sunniva has done it again. Not that I would ever doubt her comedic genius, but few authors can make me laugh the way she does, or simply bring all theSunniva has done it again. Not that I would ever doubt her comedic genius, but few authors can make me laugh the way she does, or simply bring all the feels.
My college years were more than half a lifetime ago now, but Ms. Dee quickly takes me back there in this second book in this quirky series. I won't share any spoilers, but I was glad to find out that this book starred my favorite Dude as introduced in the first #LovePranks book. As with any Sunniva Dee book/series, you wouldn't have to have read the first book to enjoy this one fully - they can all easily be read as standalones - but why not treat yourself to all the fun? She is one of the most consistently great authors I have had the joy to come across, no matter what genre she is dipping into. You truly can't go wrong....more
I fell in love with the Just An Illusion series shortly before the second book came out and it continues to be one of my most recommended and most cheI fell in love with the Just An Illusion series shortly before the second book came out and it continues to be one of my most recommended and most cherished series. Encore simply reinforced everything that has come before it. I guess I should point out that this book is not a standalone, you really need to start with Just An Illusion Side A and work your way up from there. Invest in a case of tissues. I am not a crier, but Encore saw more shed. Maybe not as much as some books in the series, and perhaps a few more than others, but all worth every single tear. That is a testament to Ms. Kelly's amazing skill. I read voraciously, but few books find me emotionally invested, and even fewer series continue to have that kind of effect. It's a bit bittersweet to know that this is the end of the focus on Mel, Noah and Sawyer, but I have heard that books of other characters introduced in this series are upcoming. I will be first in line.
To focus on Encore itself, this is the second book of the Sawyer duet. The first three books were written from Mel's POV, so while there is overlap in events, it is not the same story. I will not include any spoilers, but I will say that it goes beyond where Mel's memoirs ended. The bonus epilogue may be one of the greatest things I have read all year. If you have followed the BAD saga from Day 1, you've probably already in picked this one up, but on the off chance you haven't, don't miss it. If you are new to the author, start at the beginning and read in order. In any case, this is simply a must read series....more
I don't know that I can put together words to do this one justice. I just binge read the ARC in about 5 hours because it undeniably sucked me in - andI don't know that I can put together words to do this one justice. I just binge read the ARC in about 5 hours because it undeniably sucked me in - and I was such a willing victim!
I have liked Jesse as we have seen him in other NSB books, but I don't think I could have truly prepared for just how much I would love this book, or how many ways he could twist my heart. Beautifully done, once again, Ms. Santos!
A few spoiler free things I absolutely loved: 🎵 Luke, Casey, Callie, Holland and Wes make appearances. The Luke ones are particularly moving, but all are welcome additions and reminders of just how much I love every single book in this series. 🎵 The tie-ins and appearances from some of my most beloved Sunniva Dee characters (especially my Inga!) 🎵 The wonderful way the author tackles addiction, depression and mental health issues. No glamourization, but very real and very well handled.
I will admit that I get jaded toward rockstar romances now and then (not enough to stop reading them, but the excitement level doesn't tend to get anywhere as high as it used to...) and then a book like this comes on to my radar, and all the magic returns. I simply don't have words for how much I loved this one.
Casey remains my favorite book boyfriend from NSB, probably because I have spent my whole life with Lukes and Jesses, but Jesse absolutely stole my heart. His story is heart breaking and ultimately inspiring at the same time.
This *could* be read as a standalone easily, but all of the NSB books are so good you might as well grab them all. Highest recommendations. ...more
I am so pleased to have gotten an ARC of this one - feels like Ms. Martin has been teasing this one for years. 😉. Completely worth the wait.
Nowhere, KI am so pleased to have gotten an ARC of this one - feels like Ms. Martin has been teasing this one for years. 😉. Completely worth the wait.
Nowhere, Kansas is the setting for this book, and it feels so familiar to me that I can picture the diner and the park as if they were part of my childhood (of course, I did spend a lot of childhood summers about 90 miles from where the fictional town would be located.) "The Gray" is just ... fascinating. But also something that I could picture. Ms. Martin has always done a fantastic job of bringing you into the scene and that is a huge kudo in my opinion. It is crucial if you read like I do, making a movie in your mind as you go.
I don't want to spoil anything but the supernatural aspects are everything they should be. I am not a fan of paranormal, generally, but I have never minded it in Ms. Martin's books, and will admit that I love it in this one.
Thriller, mystery, police procedural, crime drama, paranormal, a bit of romance - Chrysalis has it all. Highly recommended!...more
This one has been a long time coming, but so worth the wait! I fell hard for Last Five Seconds (okay Clay/Jet specifically, but I have always wanted mThis one has been a long time coming, but so worth the wait! I fell hard for Last Five Seconds (okay Clay/Jet specifically, but I have always wanted more of him and his band) in Bullet, and on through Feverish and Boiling Point. I honestly don't think there has been a fictional band I have been so curious about, or wanted more of, so badly. That said, I am not sure what I was expecting from frontman Sam, but this definitely was not it - and that is a compliment.
Most of what I remember of Sam/Devil from the previously mentioned books, is that his girlfriend, Debbie was completely obnoxious. While that is proven early on in this book, being told from Sam's POV gives it now entirely different twist. And seeing as that is a catalyst for the rest of this wonderful story, I can appreciate how much her darkness reflects the light of things to come. But, thankfully, this book isn't about Debbie, but about the refreshing Grace Ward.
I will admit that the super sweet and innocent young girl isn't typically my favorite heroine, but Grace turns every thing I thought I would adore inside out and upside down. As the mother of a teenage daughter, I should probably hate this, but it is impossible to feel that way about such a beautiful story (not to mention that it would be completely hypocritical of me looking at my own teenage years, but I digress.) Leave your preconceived notions behind and just read this as it is written.
The biggest surprise to me is the feelings I still have, days after finishing it. I am still smiling. I still have feelings of hope and light that were an unexpected, but most welcome, side effect. I am struggling to remain spoiler free, as I want to gush on an on about this story. Ms. Jamison always has an uncanny ability to speak to me with her writing, and Scorched is certainly no exception to that. I guess the part I am struggling to explain is that most books that capture my emotions are on a very angsty level, and this is not that book. Oh, there is a fair amount of angst, don't get me wrong, but that is not the part that will stick with you. Honestly, with all that is going on in the world, we need more books like this that leave us feeling like there are still good and pure joys to be found, no matter how old and jaded we have become.
I think it is time to wrap this up and go start making chili and cinnamon rolls for dinner tonight. While Clay will remain my number one book boyfriend, I highly recommend you let Sam into the running for your BBF list. This could be read as a standalone, but you will understand the background better if you have read, at least, Feverish and Boiling Point. I highly recommend Bullet as well, because that's where the LFS story truly begins, and because it is one of the very best rockstar romance books ever written....more
How I am even supposed to start this review? I want it to be clean enough to be posted on sites that get angry when I let my freak/geek flag fly and uHow I am even supposed to start this review? I want it to be clean enough to be posted on sites that get angry when I let my freak/geek flag fly and used excited grown up words...like I do over every installment of this series. Cora Kenborn and KA Ware are the absolute masters of RomCom with these. There has not been a book yet in the Swamp Bottom series that has not had me laughing to the point of losing bodily fluids (tears....well, mostly. Yeah, laughing to tears, we'll stick with that.) Pink Lines and Panic is certainly no exception.
Since my kids have grounded me 3 times in the last 2 days for inappropriate behavior, and I am getting a bit of a complex about it, I will save all my favorite quotes for my blog post that will be up hopefully late tonight. If not, tomorrow morning for sure. As the title alludes to, someone is unexpectedly pregnant. Okay, not a spoiler....if you've been keeping up we this because it was the cliffhanger of Blue Lights and Boatmen. I'm not even touching the spoiler at the end of PL&P - it is the biggest one yet and I am already antsy waiting for the next one! It's going to be amazing! But back to the 5th installment of my favorite series.....the panic part is a bit more widespread. And hilarious. Always, always hysterical.
Along with the comedic gold, there are plenty of very swoons worthy romantic moments as well. Both Pope and Zep pull out some lines that could put Shakespeare to shame (okay, so, I don't often admit it, but I am not a big fan of the Bard, and certainly not of his brand of romance, but since most of the world thinks he's the gold standard....I'll use him.) Bravo to both boys for giving my Dubois girls worthy romantic words .... not to mention actions, but that usually gets me in trouble, so we will leave it as both of these blue collar guys are just amazing. And to the one whose blue collar hides his blue blood - I just gotta say I love his mom and sister. Especially his mom. She speaks Babs-inese...I love that.
I couldn’t review one of these books without mentioning Babs. She has become one of my all time favorite characters. I can't decide if I want a Babs of my own more, or if I just want you be Babs when I grow up. Either way, the Dubois matriarch is just simply awesome. She is quite often behind the hardest laughs (and leaking body fluids) when I read these. Her granddaughters each have inherited more of her personality than either would admit to, though, so they bring me hearty chuckles and guffaws as well. Must be something in the blood lines, because cousin BamBam entertains me well too.
Note to self, when this series ends entirely too soon, bug authors for a BamBam spinoff. And one of these wonderful ladies needs a "Dear Babs" advice column on their website. Just....a couple of further marketing ideas....yeah....Nothing to do with the fact that I can't stand the thought of letting go of these characters. But it already kind of bums me out that there are only three more novellas planned for this series. I was lucky to stumble into the release party for Front Porches and Funerals and was addicted before I even opened the first page after one clicking immediately. I have been a fan of Cora's for a while. Those of you reading this because you follow my reviews know that rockstar romance is my normal obsession. If you haven't read Cora's (that's Cora Kenborn so you don't have to scroll up) Lords of Lyre and you are a fan of the men behind the guitars and mics (and drums too, yes, drummers are an integral part of the band no matter what anyone else may tell you. And I am not even going to insert a drummer joke here to show you how serious I am.) then don't hesitate. They are awesome. But my point is that, though I loved those, I didn't realize just how witty she was.
So, if you haven't yet, pick up all 5, starting with Front Porches and Funerals, immediately. My very, very highest recommendations. You can check this site or my blog gorgeous reviews of the first four. I don't rave on and on like I do with these often, but I don't come across a series this incredible often either....more
The Just An Illusion original trilogy topped my 2017 reading list, and my all time tissue killing list. (Note:. These must be read before this book.).The Just An Illusion original trilogy topped my 2017 reading list, and my all time tissue killing list. (Note:. These must be read before this book.). I have been anxiously awaiting this first book in Sawyer's duet, and it did not disappoint.
Just because you think you know the story, it really isn't complete without Sawyer's view point. And there are plenty of surprises along the way. I won't give spoilers, but one friendship in particular we didn't really know about was particularly endearing.
The emotions are all there, but perhaps Ms. Kelly realizes how much she put us through the ringer the first time through - this one is a beautiful ride through Sawyer's mind, heart and soul (and as this is the first book in a duet, we haven't made it to the most difficult part of his reminiscence yet.). The tears that did fall for me came in the present day chapters for the most part, but those situations are not at all tragic. Selling me on Sawyer was never a difficult job, but she brought a few sides to the table that I guess I didn't expect. The word stoic comes to mind. And maybe the B in BAD should stand for Beautiful because Sawyer is a beautiful human, perhaps especially in the times we originally thought he was the furthest from it.
An absolute must read for everyone who has read A, B and EP....and if you haven't read those, do so immediately. Then read Unplugged. I don't have words for how this series has moved me and how much I look forward to more....more
Pure poetic alchemy. I don't know what else to say about this book/novella, but if I had to sum it up in 3 word5 Slightly Electrified Guitars for Flow
Pure poetic alchemy. I don't know what else to say about this book/novella, but if I had to sum it up in 3 words, those would be the ones. For some reason, alchemy has always been a favorite word of mine, and it was used at least twice in this book. Both in passages I highlighted because they moved me. I found I highlighted many passages in this one - okay, I highlight passages in nearly every book I read, but there were seriously a lot of highlights in this one. I have read books by this author before, and I will definitely be revisiting them after I read Grip and Bristol's book. I have some vague memories of the others, but I don't remember the almost melodic flow of poetic prose that I heard and felt as I read flow.
I am including this in my rockstar romance category/blog, simply because music is an integral part of the book, but the rockstar part is pushing things. Grip is a yet to be discovered rapper, and Rhyson is a piano virtuoso hiding from the scars his child prodigy notoriety earned him. Bristol is Rhyson's twin sister who is desperately trying to reconnect with her brother over her Spring Break from her Ivy League life on the east coast. She arrives in LA to be greeted by her brother's best friend, Marlon aka Grip. Someone she has never heard of, and shouldn't be so comfortable around, but there is a sizzling chemistry from the time Grip's hand covers Bristol's on the handle of her Louis Vuitton luggage. They may both try to fight it, with the millions of reasons why they shouldn't be attached to each other, let alone act on that undeniable attraction that leads to deep conversations (and sizzling kisses) that are intertwined in such poetic ways. Most of the rest of this review is going to take on a different style from my norm - I am actually going to let y'all into my highlights and notes along the way.
One more note, the slightly electrified designation- I am not sure if I have used it before. There are no actual sexy times in this book, but there are enough references to skew it away from the under 18 crowd. Guess I should have used Acoutic/Electric since that is a real thing and I use acoustic for clean reads and electric for the, ahem, less clean ones, but I didn't think of it until now.
But I want to share some of Ms Ryan's lovely prose with you - I can't think of a better way to convince you this is a must read.
" I like the color of smart, the shade of funny, and sexy is my favorite hue.”
I certainly understand why this passage has been highlighted enough to be "notable". It is very deep. Though I am much more Bristol than I would probably care to admit, this applies to me completely. I have always dated long haired musicians, and I am well aware that they are viewed much as another species in certain circles - especially the circles of Rhys and Bris' parents. But the traits in this passage - those are what I look for in the people I surround myself with, and the traits I have tried to instill in my children to look for in the friends they make, the people they cherish.
☆☆☆☆☆☆
“So what color am I then?” I ask before thinking better of it. He’ll probably just say I’m white, obviously. “What color are you?” he repeats, his eyes never leaving my face. “You, Bristol, are a freaking prism.”
Oh this....this is heartstopping. My ideas of romance are admittedly skewed, but that would undo me to the core. To me, that is about as romantic a statement anyone could make (says the girl who's husband tells everyone we have to keep stocked up on mayonnaise in case I need a transfusion....)
☆☆☆☆☆☆
" She carries on a helluva conversation, which from my experience, is a lost art."
See note below....this is too true, and really breaks my heart. I am guessing this is how older generations than I felt about telephones killing the art of letter writing...which makes me even sadder as there has not been a resurgence of that beauty....
☆☆☆☆☆☆
" We talked about things we don’t understand and aren’t sure we ever will. Things we thought we had figured out, only to realize we didn’t know jack shit. It feels fresh like a beginning, but it also feels like we’ve known each other for years."
These are some of the best things in life. I agree with Grip, conversation is becoming a lost art, and may be one of the things that makes me saddest for the millineal generation. (Too lazy to come up with the correct spelling at the moment, and embarrassed and a bit scared that it isn't coming naturally to me. The thrills of chronic illness.)
☆☆☆☆☆☆
" He’s lightning in a beautiful bottle, just waiting to strike."
More poetic genius. I don't remember this author being so profound...I am thinking a reread is in order. I will admit I only vaguely remember Rhyson and Bristol and Grip, and Rhyson's girlfriend whose name I won't even pretend to remember. I know the books I read were set further in the future than this...Bristol and Rhys having more of a relationship, Grip making a video...Definitely need to revisit.
☆☆☆☆☆☆
"There are too few perfect moments in this life. Far too few of us get them, but I am privileged to have this one with this man. When he empties his chest of his heart and empties his body of his soul for me under a starry sky on a Ferris wheel. And I know. In this moment, I know that I’m lost to him. It has been a matter of days. It has been a string of moments. It has not been long enough to tell him, but in my heart, I know I am lost."
So beautifully stated, so truly romantic.
☆☆☆☆☆☆
" The inches between our lips disappear. At the first brush of his mouth on mine, I know this kiss will never end. It will live on in my memory for the rest of my life. His lips beg entry, a tentative touch that blazes through my defenses and hastens the rhythm of my heart."
Again, easy to see why it has been noted enough times for that dotted underline. Powerful. Poetic. Sheer romance.
☆☆☆☆☆☆
" This kiss has a cadence, his head moving to the left and then right, on beat, a syncopation, a simultaneity of lips and tongues. His mouth slants over mine, hot and zealous, and I link my fingers behind his head, clinging, afraid this will end. Afraid to lose the enormity of this moment. At the top of the world, so close we could almost touch the sky and with only the stars watching, I found out what a kiss should be."
More of that awe-inspiring, beautiful, romantic poetry.
☆☆☆☆☆☆
" Her sharp breath is her only reply, but I rest my lips against hers to taste her consent."
☆☆☆☆☆☆
" The current tugs at our bodies as the tide comes in, and clinging to each other, we let the flow take us. With our mouths still fused, legs still tangled, tongues hungry and twisting together, we drift into deeper waters. Complex and effortless."
☆☆☆☆☆☆
" The unexpected alchemy that’s been flowing between us since the moment we met. It’s layered and complicated, and yet, there’s no struggle, no force. It feels easy. Effortless. It feels so good, I can’t imagine this ending."
☆☆☆☆☆☆
Of course, there is more drama that I am skipping over, and a heart wrenching ending - you just have to pick it up and see for yourself. And then, I am pretty sure you will feel as I do - needing to sink into the full length novel, Grip, as quickly as possible. ...more
I kind of stumbled across this one while surfing around on GoodReads and following a friend's reviews (thank you Doris!!!!). I realized I already haveI kind of stumbled across this one while surfing around on GoodReads and following a friend's reviews (thank you Doris!!!!). I realized I already have book one waiting on my kindle, but figured out this one was one you could only get as a super secret freebie from the author (read the author's comments in the questions about the book) and decided I was beyond intrigued and since this is book/novella/short story 0.5 in the series, the prequel, I was going to read it first (even if the author suggested reading it after book 1- I tend to be weird about reading in order, blame it on my husband, it was his ocd thing long before it was mine.) I will be hopping into Dirty Like Me immediately after finishing this review, because I fell deeply in love with everything about this book. I'm a bit disappointed that we won't be getting more of Zane and Magg's story in it, but I am crossing everything that we do somewhere down the road. I want the conventional for this very unconventional couple in crazy kinds of ways.
Yeah, it's a short story, but I fell hard and fast. It's no secret that I am the biggest groupie of fictional rockstars (I'll stay firmly in fangirl territory with the real ones) and only slightly less known that I generally don't connect with the heroines. In my 40's I have more female friends than I have ever had in my life, but in general, I don't get along with many women, (and in an uncomfortable amount of honesty, my contact list isn't much longer than Maggie's, but thank God I have one girlfriend I probably don't deserve I can always call) so I don't find it unusual for me to connect more with the guys in books. But Maggie....she's different, in a very special way. Seems our hot rockstar hero of this tale, with his Viking good looks, feels like she is too. Too bad her washed up, has been, one hit wonder of days gone by, sperm donor doesn't see it. That is definitely his loss, but led to one hell of an enthralling story.
This review is really difficult to write without spoilers, because I am dying to share my thoughts on so many parts of this book that fall firmly in the spoiler territory. I love the dual POVs in this book, because it would fall rather flat, I am afraid, it wouldn't be as all consuming as it is this way. It would still be compelling, especially if from Zane's POV (not minimizing Maggie....but, like most of us, she has no clue how he really feels) but it is sheer perfection to see both. Jesse's epilogue is an intriguing set up for his book (Dirty #1 - Dirty Like Me) and has an interesting tidbit relating to Dirty Like US, but in all honesty, I want more Zane and Maggie! Much, much more - I hope to pickup at least a bit in the next 2 books that are currently available, but from friends' reviews, I am not holding my breath, which just makes me sad. I know both characters are involved in the books though, so I guess that will have to be enough to tide me over (and hopefully keep me from cyber stalking Ms. Diamond for more - lol. On the other hand, that isbasically how I have made some awesome author friends
I am so glad this lazy Sunday led me to GoodReads, where I rarely venture these days. I am also glad it led me to ignore the 100 + books waiting on my kindle (though, as I mentioned, Dirty Like Me is amongst those....and with that note, I will wrap up this babbling so I can delve into it.) Very highly recommended to my rockstar loving girls. Sexy as all get out, but so much more than that. Ms. Diamond was a new to me author when I opened this book, but I will be watching for her newsletter for news of more when I finish the two currently awaiting me. I am impressed all the way around, and as jaded as I have found myself getting, that is a huge recommendation in and of itself. Probably not the best place to mention it, but it is worth including that I found few to no editing/proofreading errors, and found the writing intellectual and prosaic at times. I fell hard, all the way around, and I think you will too. It's a quick and free read - take a chance on it!...more
LB Dunbar is always a joy to read, and The History in Us is certainly not exception. If you have read her Sensations collection, the casts of characteLB Dunbar is always a joy to read, and The History in Us is certainly not exception. If you have read her Sensations collection, the casts of characters will be mostly familiar to you. In Ms. Dunbar’s very first book, Sound Advice, we met Katie Carter, the sweetest little girl who undoubtedly stole your heart. The History in Us finds Katie a grown woman in grad school in Chicago. Levi is also a character who played a smaller part in the Sensations Collection, another character who probably made an impact on you as a child of unfortunate circumstances. If you haven’t read her previous series, though, this definitely works as a standalone read as well. Nothing in this book was ever remotely hinted at in any previous books, it just enhanced the reading experience for me to have some background on some of the characters. This amazing, emotional story earns its 5 stars on its own merits, without a doubt.
Levi didn’t have an easy childhood, but his years in the military, and the physical and mental scars he carries with him from battle are an even heavier burden to bear. Throw in single fatherhood, and it is no wonder that he has no idea how to process that the girl who wanted him to be a hero is a grown woman in his life once again.
The emotional spectrum this story spans is almost overwhelming – be sure to have tissues ready for both extremes. Releasing this gem between Memorial Day and Father’s Day is perfect timing, as it does great service to both our vets and those who should be every child’s first hero, their father. We all know that, sadly, not all are worthy of the title, but Ms. Dunbar has an uncanny ability to write amazing father’s.
At times this book is as philosophically as beautiful and intense as it is emotionally. It needs to be on everyone’s summer reading list, though it definitely is not a light beach read. It is truly an honor and a joy to watch this very talented author grow with each new release. I will always be first in line for her next release....more
Where to begin, oh where to begin? I have had several schools of thought on this while reading, knowing I would be reviewing as soon as I finished reaWhere to begin, oh where to begin? I have had several schools of thought on this while reading, knowing I would be reviewing as soon as I finished reading. But as I pulled up the page on GoodReads, something crossed my mind.
This book, this series...these are the reasons I blog. The books that touch your heart and soul when you read them...the books that break you until there is no avoiding the ugly cry, no matter how guarded you think your heart is....and then put it back together, if only to set you up to do it all over again. Books that affect you in ways you never thought possible. Books that let you soar to the highest heights and drag you through the depths of hell and every emotion in between. Books of epic romances you feel privileged to have a peek at. For me, it is always a bonus if music is involved, particularly rockstars, but music is a part of almost every part of my life, so, once I discovered the multitude of books that weave music and musicians into their storyline, why would I not include music in my literary choices. But, I digress, I wanted to focus on those rare, special unicorns....those books keep me going as a reader as well as as a blogger. I honestly have never had dreams of writing myself, but there is a special kind of joy I get as a blogger when I have the chance to introduce these mythical masterpieces to a new audience. My friends, please take note of the name D. Kelly.
I really should start with telling you
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Just an Illusion - EPis not a standalone; you must read
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Just an Illusion - Side A, followed by
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Just an Illusion - The B Side first. This isn't any kind of hardship - this trilogy is one of the best I have come across in ages, if ever. Okay, maybe I should have started with how honored I was to receive an ARC copy since this doesn't actually release until June 21st, and I have been counting down the days since I finished The B Side. I am sure some of you would like to know that both Side A and Side B close on some pretty major cliffhangers and I will go ahead and mention that EP does close out this trilogy without that kind of angst. (So if you hate cliffhangers, you can get your closure on June 21st and not have to wait for closure.) I do know there is at least one more BAD/Weston book in the works, Just an Illusion - Unplugged, and I will hope, beg, bargain, plead and pray there will be many more than that. Only a very elite group of authors have ever touched me in the way Ms. Kelly has - as a reader first, but also as a book blogger, adding to that list is like a childhood Christmas morning. In most situations I am like the Grinch, and the every once in a great while a book/series/author comes along, sucking me into their fictional vortex and giving me all the feels, leaving me feeling like my heart grew 2 sizes that day.
One more warning (that, actually probably applies to the entire series) before we get down to business- check your stock, you may need to make a Sam's Club or Costco run before you get started if you don't have several boxes of tissues on hand. While you are there a couple of bottles of wine, and maybe a good bottle of whiskey or tequila might be needed as well. Just fair warning, and it comes from a non-crier. I can only think of one book that had me in tears quicker than EP, and I don't think any have produced the infamous ugly cry to the extent this book does. However, if you are suffering from allergies, or happen to have a sinus infection, the ugly cry might clear your sinuses better than any over the counter or even prescription medications.
So it is time to focus more specifically on Just an Illusion - EP. I am a spoiler-free reviewer, and that gets trickier the deeper into a series you get. Add in the cliffhangers the previous 2 books end on, and, nope, sorry (not sorry), you won't get a lot of specifics from me. The Weston Twins will both surprise you, in unexpected ways. I ran the gamut of emotions toward each of them as I read this tome. I will have to say the same is true of Mel. Sometimes you want to hug her, sometimes you want to shake her, or, as one member of the family actually does, you may have the urge to slap her (though perhaps not for the same reasons.) If you have read The B Side, you will know that it has a dramatic ending....I don't think there is any way to prepare for how that will play out. Saying it is extremely emotional is like saying our 97°F temps with 80% humidity this week are a bit warm. The impact is massive, and the rest of the story is definitely colored by the aftermath. I truly can't praise Ms. Kelly enough for her ability to make her characters come to life, all too human flaws and all. It takes true talent to bring such a realness to your creations that people have emotional responses to these fictional situations in black and white print in front of them. Ms. Kelly's talent well must be overflowing.
Don't get me wrong, it is not all angst and tearjerking. There is plenty of slightly snarky humor (my favorite kind) and some scorching hot sexy scenes. There are the strong family ties that we have seen throughout the series, including friends who have become a part of the family. Much like real life, there are lots of ups and downs, misunderstandings, and those rare relationships where people know you so well words aren't always necessary. One factor that sets this series apart from others is the strength of the secondary characters. While they never overwhelm our MCs, several have left me wanting to know more about them - lots more. Eli and Darren probably top that list, but there is no shortage of potential spinoffs because the glimpses we get are so strongly defined as to make us curious to know more. Mac the bodyguard even plays enough of a role to make my curiosity and imagination run. Off the top of my head I can think of at least 6 more names to add to the list. It is rare for me to take notice of secondary, and almost unheard of for tertiary, characters, but this whole crew, or more aptly, my reaction to them, has taken me by surprise.
I am such an avid reader that I don't often get attached to characters, but these have really gotten under my skin. I am about to do something I don't think I have ever done, and reread this entire series , immediately. I have heard the term "book hangover" many times, and I have experienced them a time or two (and possibly it's only because this is so fresh) but I feel like I have never had one to this extent. Obviously this series gets my highest recommendations....more
This review is probably going to be uncharacteristically short for me. Real life has been more than the usual amount of chaos for me lately, so I am eThis review is probably going to be uncharacteristically short for me. Real life has been more than the usual amount of chaos for me lately, so I am embarrassed to admit that I can't remember for sure how the ARC of this book wound up on my Kindle, but I am thrilled that it did. I will worry about figuring out where it came from after I devour Side B, because that is taking high priority at the moment. I can't tell you how thankful I am that it has already been released, because I don't know how I would handle the wait. (Now is probably a good time to mention that it ends on one hell of a cliffhanger - but even if you here cliffies, as I mentioned book 2 is already out. It is so worth it.)
So, about the book....indie author who doesn't believe in love has self published a sexy romance that has managed to hit #1 on the NYT list. Her best - and pretty much only - friend is a blogger/editor for a mock music zine. Perfect storm has hugely popular rock and making her an offer she can't refuse to tour with them and write their official bio, while her bff's magazine will have exclusive coverage of the tour. I could bore you with some of the amazingly authentic tour details (and a fabulous idea for bands sick of the ticket company which shall not be named that monopolizes the industry and the, um, jerk, who buy blocks of tickets to profit (greatly) on resale, but I digress.) Amazingly hot and sexy twins in the band, along with a couple of equally hot other members. The twins are fraternal, and their personalities polar opposites, but both have major appeal, both to the reader and the heroine. The heroine has been hiding from her past for 12 years, and the mysteries of who she is, why she is hiding, why anyone would have known her, and why she has sworn off musicians are a great way to suck the reader in early in the story, and when she eventually her story, I can honestly say I had no idea. As thrillers/mysteries are my favorite reads when I am not wrapped up in rockstars, this is very, well, thrilling, to me. Especially since the story makes perfect sense even if unexpected. Major kudos to Ms. Kelly on that.
Struggling, not only because I am anxious to sink into "Side B", but because saying much more about the story itself would easily fall into spoiler category, and I HATE reviews that do that, so pride myself on not going there, no matter how tempting it sometimes is. And right now I would really love to spill all my questions and thoughts on key areas best left out of the review. I will have to suffice with saying it is a very compelling storyline, with plenty of realism (as in, a lot of this really could happen.)
The erotic moments are scorching - made me give some credence to the idea of letting the anticipation build. Beautifully broken characters (well, except one bat crap crazy beotch) will tear you up at times. I don't think I actually shed tears (which has everything to do with my blackened, jaded soul and nothing to do with the writing) but it certainly pulled feels from depths I am not accustomed to and certainly didn't expect.
For over 18 audiences for explicit...yada, yada,yada. I haven't even read the synopsis of Just an Illusion, Side B, and have no intentions of doing so - just hopped onto the page long enough to one click. I want to experience every word without expectation. That may be the greatest praise I can give because I don't think I have ever done that before. Grab and read. Now....more
First of all, if you haven't read the prequel novella, Background Noise, grab it (it's free) and devour it first. Ashley Hicks is a rockstar you want First of all, if you haven't read the prequel novella, Background Noise, grab it (it's free) and devour it first. Ashley Hicks is a rockstar you want to get to know. Trust me. A southern gentleman wrapped up in a sexy guitar god package? What's not to love? Corie, the batista he met in a small Colorado town while he was hiding from a TMZ type scandal, certainly knows she has found her one, and their story couldn't be sweeter - made better with copious amounts of frosting.
This book picks up shortly after Background Noise leaves off, and Corie is adjusting to her new role of managing the brand of Ashley Hicks, the musician, as well as her role as girlfriend of her Ashley - all very much in the public eye, though based out of a fabulous NYC condo. Overwhelming doesn't begin to cover the changes, but she handles it all with grace and the latter with sizzling sexiness. And don't even get me started on the Tennessee locales!
RC Martin is definitely an author to keep your eye on. This talented lady writes fantastic romances, rockstar and otherwise, with some of the hottest scenes ever to scorch your Kindle, but also with grace, sweetness, and a nod to the God who makes love possible, without being overly preachy. Every book of hers is a five star read, and this may be her best one yet....more
I am still processing this one. Sasha Marshall tends to have that effect on me. That is certainly not a bad thing - it means she hits me where few othI am still processing this one. Sasha Marshall tends to have that effect on me. That is certainly not a bad thing - it means she hits me where few other authors, few other people in general, ever have. She has an amazing way of taking us on emotional rollercoaster, blindfolded. You just don't realize you are climbing toward the peak, and the bottom falls out when you least expect it. But she manages to do so with the most wonderful sense of humor - I swear I end up with as many tears from laughing so hard I am losing bodily fluids as I do from having my heart shredded. But after she shreds the heart she puts it back together, in a better way than it started out....eventually. And perhaps my very favorite thing about her writing style is the raw reality. Every character seems so real; I always leave her books feeling like I have rediscovered long lost friends, ones that will never been far from my heart again.
Okay, so that first paragraph I feel is very important, I realize it doesn't exactly go into any specifics about Under the Cornerstone. While I am not ready to let go of Kipley and Jag send the rest of the gang, I have definitely made room in my heart for the Blood Feather family. (In my opinion the best bands always have that family feel, and in the realm of fictional bands, that is almost a universal truth. There is good reason for that; it works.) Our heroine, Noely, is definitely a part of the band even if she does not play an instrument or sing or have any job on the stage. She has been with the guys since they formed the band, and has always been their biggest fan and biggest supporter. They all came up on the rough streets of Brooklyn, and this seems to be a perfect place for Ms. Marshall's beautiful smartass side to come out and play.
Noely, Noe, Noely Baby....our heroine has had a pretty awful hand of cards dealt her in life, but Johnny has been her knight in shining leather since they were 12. Then came Jimmy and Rich and Ryan, making up the band and their own family. I will admit I was told that I would love Jimmy before I started reading, and it is true - I have a mad love for his crazy butt. I guess the best way to sum it up is to include this little snippet of a conversation between Noe and Johnny: "“Hey, I made a bucket list.” “Did Jimmy help you?” he asks with humor in his voice. “No. But come to think of it, I should totally ask for his input,” I quip. His response comes out rushed, “Don’t do that!” “Of course I will.” “Did you add getting arrested to your bucket list?” he asks. “No, but in the right circumstances, I’m not opposed to being arrested,” I admit with a grin. “You do know that if you’re arrested it will be with Jimmy?” “Of course. I wouldn’t want to go to jail with anyone else.” “You two can’t hang out unsupervised anymore,” he advises."" Does that tell you enough about Jimmy? I kind of think it does. I could absolutely hear his Brooklyn accent, and see the attitude radiating off of him, and I definitely fell in love. I remember that he is really tall, but I don't remember much more about his physical description, because his personality is just so huge. You know I won't go into spoilers, but just remember to have your tissue when clowns are mentioned. I practically needed Depends for that one. I am trying to decide if that one or Kip's elaborate Joe has Malaria scenario tastes the prize for best literary prank ever - either way the title goes to Sasha Marshall.
I also fell in love with Johnny - it was pretty much impossible not to fall in love with Johnny. I am sure I will not be the only girl who reads this book and wishes she had a Johnny in her life, especially through her teenage years. My husband is my Johnny these days, but he didn't really fill that role until I was 33. He has done a great job, but I can only imagine having that from age 12 - how different things could have been, but Noely is a lucky, lucky lady.
Watching Noely's personal growth throughout this book was beautiful too.
Can't wait for more about both of them, Rich and Ryan, and, of course Jimmy.
My very highest recommendation for the over 18 crowd, and Ms. Marshall has the vocabulary of a soldier on leave, and writes really hot steamy parts, and writes them very well. This one will definitely be in my top 6 of 2016, and could possibly take the top spot....more
This was a great novella to tie in with book 2 of the Metal Prodigy series, especially for those who like a little extra heat in their reads, and a muThis was a great novella to tie in with book 2 of the Metal Prodigy series, especially for those who like a little extra heat in their reads, and a must read for Drake fans. I really hope he and Angie get a chance. The insights into who Drake is and why he is that way were well worth the read on their own.
The insights into Simone were worth the read as well. It is very hard not to include spoilers talking about that area, so I won'tvsay any more except that I like her more and more all the time.
4 stars for the same reason book 1 was, just too many errors that could be easily fixed by another run through by a proofreader.
Highly recommended to readers of the Metal Prodigy series, and anabsolute must read for fans of Herr Mitchell (mi amado) and also for fans of Simone.
I continue to absolutely love this series - on content it is easily a 6 on a 1-5 scale. But the dire need for editting or even a run through a good prI continue to absolutely love this series - on content it is easily a 6 on a 1-5 scale. But the dire need for editting or even a run through a good proofreader just will not allow me in good conscience to give it the five stars my heart wants to give it. The story is brilliantly unique and Ms. Snow has me very involved with all these characters. I have only the latest novella left to read, which saddens me because I am already craving more, and amalready sad that the book coming out in December is slated to be the last in the series.
I have never struggled with reviews like I do for this series. I will definitely recommend it to all my rockstar romance reading babes, but I will have to give the warning about the need to have a good editor get ahold of it. I can honestly say that for most any other author I would have simply given up on it by now, but the story is simply too good not to keep reading no matter how irritating I may findthe relatively simple errors. If it were just one or two, say every 50 pages, even every 25 pages, I wouldn't even mention it. But as it stands this number is nearly every page, and there is never a point that there are 5 pages without this issue.
But then you balance this against characters such as Alex, the incomparable musical prodigy who desires not only to be the queen of heavy metal, but a RNRHOF guitarist...a legendary guitarist for generations to come, based on her playing and not on her gender. Her bandmates who make up her favorite band, Hell's Redemption. Seth Batista, the guitar god who inspired her to want to become a heavy metal legend. Drake Mitchell, rhythm guitarist and rock 'n roll bad boy, whose attitude toward Alex runs hot and cold. Hiatt Stevenson, drummer extrodaordinaire, with a beautifully perky spirit, great sense of humor, and quite possibly ADHD. Cole VonSnyder, the German pretty boy whose bass playing is only eclipsed by his extraordinary ear and composing abilities. And last, but certainly not least, the mysterious, quiet, gentle giant who is the other bass player and so much more, John Lucas.
The secondary characters also play huge roles in this series; Sister Maria Therese and Father Martin, the parents who raised Alex; Seth's Abuela who is universally loved by all; the entire Taggart clan; Alex's friends Simone and Rick; the band's manager Doc and his assitant Angela, and so many others. They all come off the pages and take on characteristics, at the very least, of the soap operas they are continually arguing about (Alex is absolutely right on this one - General Hospital all the way!), assuming you have watched for years and can recall storylines the way you recall moments of your past and the pasts of your closest friends and family members. They take on a life of their own, just barely out of your reach.
The hot scenes are much too hot for the under 18 crowd, but I wouldn't call these erotic romance because there is so much else going on. The dramas and heartbreaks are likely to bring tears to your eyes (yeah, even this jaded old broad) and the funnies will have you laughing out loud - be careful where you are reading as this could become embarrassing. Just all around fantastic stories that I most highly recommend to readers of the rock star romance genre....more
I have to start out by saying this is an absolutely epic read in the rockstar romance genre. The storyline is easily in the 6+ Star range. It may be aI have to start out by saying this is an absolutely epic read in the rockstar romance genre. The storyline is easily in the 6+ Star range. It may be a bit over the top, but isn't that why we read fiction in the first place? It wasn't so over the top that it couldn't possibly happen, though admittedly, a very long shot. The first part of the book tells about Alex/AG's early childhood, from the time she is found in a box next to a dumpster, left to die; she had almost bled out when Sister Maria Therese found her where she had been thrown away. We find out she is a child prodigy in all things musical, though she rarely speaks. We get a good look into her unusual upbringing, and her musical talents. Then her introduction to the real world while attending Julliard. After turning down the New York Philharmonic Symphony because she wants to be a heavy metal guitar goddess, eventually making it into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. I did mention that in reading fiction we had to suspend some disbelief in order to enjoy the story, right? I haven't even filled in all of the things you will have to take with more than a pinch of salt, but it truly is a story, series worth reading (basing the series on this one book of it, and some friends' recommendations, I am convinced that it will all be worth reading.) It has me sucked in for sure, and I can't wait to head on to the next one. I really wish I didn't have to wait to get through a promised review before I jump into it!)
I haven't even mentioned the band. Each one of the five guys in the band (though I still can't picture the sound of a band with two basses) has captured a piece of my heart, well at least 4 of them have. I am still on the fence about the one Alex adores, but I guess you will have to read on to find out who he is and why I am hesitant. But they all are so very well described, that you can't help but feel lkie you are getting to know them all as she is, getting more pieces of exactly who each of them are as she tours with them and gets to know their quirks and redeeming qualities. They are an amazing bunch, without a doubt. I even ended up completely loving the little red headed tinkerbell sprite.
So why only 4 stars? It really tore me up a bit, but I couldn't in good conscience give it more. The website says this was the revised version, but there were so many grammarical and proof reading mistakes that I just can't give it the full 5 that I really, really want to and feel like it deserves. There are too many misplaced commas, commas that should be there that are not, usage of the wrong word, head hopping, words that should be capitalized that are not and vice versa, apostrophes that are not needed and not there where they should be (including in the band's name, which is obviously repeated many times,) and many, many unneccessary dashes, as well as a few sentences here and there that just didn't quite make sense. As often as I do beta reading and proofreading, I find it second nature to notice these things and this book simply has too many of them for me to give it a higher rating. I sincerely hate that because it is a fantastic story.
I am going to say this is for an adult audience only for content, though there are fewer scenes that I would put flags up against kids reading than most of the books I read.
I will add a note to the author, if this book is ever revised again, I would be happy to reread and adjust my review....more
Will update to add review soon - already running late for today's activities, but couldn't not finish this one. Once again Ms. Marshall has taken us oWill update to add review soon - already running late for today's activities, but couldn't not finish this one. Once again Ms. Marshall has taken us on one hell of an emotional roller coaster ride, and I am absolutely addicted. I can't wait to read 5 and am sure I will be begging for 6 and beyond in no time! I simply can't get enough of this series....more
Will update to add review soon - already running late for today's activities, but couldn't not finish this one. Once again Ms. Marshall has taken us oWill update to add review soon - already running late for today's activities, but couldn't not finish this one. Once again Ms. Marshall has taken us on one hell of an emotional roller coaster ride, and I am absolutely addicted. I can't wait to read 5 and am sure I will be begging for 6 and beyond in no time! I simply can't get enough of this series....more
So many opening lines are running through my head. I guess the most important one is how in the world I didn't discover this author and series sooner.So many opening lines are running through my head. I guess the most important one is how in the world I didn't discover this author and series sooner. I know I had at least seen or heard of them, but not sure why I hadn't picked them up before. I have another book waiting in the wings that I need to get read in reviewed, but spologies to the suthor of that book, there is no way I am reading anything else before I finish the next three books in the series. Even if I have about 457 newly invented curse words to thtow at the author for the emotional rollercoaster she has had me on since about the second chapter of Guitar Face.
Guitar Face threw me for a loop because I had never cried so much while reading a book. Ha! There's No Crying in Rock'n Roll made Guitar Face look like a mild allergy attack in comparison. I spent at least a full 1/3 of this book with tears running down my face. I dare not say Part 3 had better lighten up abit because I am scared of what kind of twisted stuff could cause more tears than this one did. Ms. Marshall really should get some kind of percentage from Kleenex for all the tissues these first two books of hers have caused to be cluttering up our landfills.
Poor Henley. The things she goes through in this book are dark, and sad, and simply heart wrenching, but there are still times of beauty as well. No, not just the hot guys either. Lol. The love she and Jagger have, regardless of trisls and tribulations, is sheer beauty. Not to mention her framily. I loved that word to explain her circle of friends and family. And framily is a huge part of this book. Just like any other friends and family, they are all human, with things they have hidden, even with the best intentions. Some little, some big and some huge, but when they all come to light in a short period of time...whew. But you won't get spoilers from me. That is difficult, as I really need to pour my heart out over these books, but my reviewing etquitte will not allow me to, no matter how much I would like to.
It should be pretty obvious, but this is not a standalone, so you have to read Guitar Face first. I imagine if you are reading reviews for it, you already have. Remember that big ol' cliffhsnger it ended with? Yeah, that is nothing compared to the cliffie in this one. I guess this is why I didn't get my hot little hands on this series sooner....don't know what I would do if I had to wait for this one to be resolved! We would have a complete, unabridged dictionary with all the new "words" I made up for the author while I waited. Fortunately for everyone, it is already sitting on my kindle waiting for me to open it up, so I am going to wrap up this review so I can crawl into it.
In total and complete honesty, this book does need some more editing. In most any other book I would have taken at least a star off for it, but I feel the emotions it was able to bring out in me justify leaving it at a full 5 stars.
This is for the over 18 crowd only for the erotic scenes and filthy language (which I love, on both counts, but understand there are readers out there who do have a problem with this sort of thing. There are few violent scenes as well which are a little bit graphic, and there is an appearance of drugs and addiction issues. If you read Guitar Face, you absolutely have to read this one. It is every bit as good, and maybe even a little bit better. Plenty of interesting twists you did not see coming, and just a whole lotta love (yes, that was intentional) and angst and more love - of all kinds....the kind you read romance novels for, naturally, but the love of lifetime friends and the love of family, definitely play a big part as well. I think that's enough to send me back to Georgia, and I am sure that review will be up in a day or two....more
I have read, and loved, and been touched by, all of Ms. Cole's books, but this one I think just may quickly become my favorite. Yes, I will admit, whI have read, and loved, and been touched by, all of Ms. Cole's books, but this one I think just may quickly become my favorite. Yes, I will admit, when I first read months ago the premise of the book, I was slightly leary as I am sure many readers are. I have had time to adjust to the concept, and be blown away by the things I have seen - teasers and blurbs and such - as a fangirl who gets as giddy as a 14 year old girl at a....One Direction concert (about showed my age because Bon Jovi is the band I usually put in there.)
From the beginning the beauty of the writing enthralled me, and reminded me why Ms. Cole's is one of my favorite authors. From the first 1% of the book we are getting words like these:
"My love, Walk in the rain with me. Kiss me in the misty fog. Let me hold you all night under the hush of the wind. I'm waiting for you. Throwing pennies...making wishes. I'm wishing only for you. Always for you. Come back to me. I'll fight for you. I'll fight for us. Wish for me, too...and I'll make it come true."
Sigh, swoon, repeat. And then at 4% we are treated to this one:
" A few stray leaves are floating along the surface, and I like how peaceful they look, not going under the water, and not blowing away either. Just floating, weightless and effortless. I want to be a leaf."
I could carry on with the quotes - GoodReads tells me I made 34 highlights, so yeah, I found a lot of things that moved me, or I related to, or go under the need to revisit, even if it simply brought a smile or giggle. But you can read the prosaic poetry and the clever comedy and the breathtaking heartbreak and romantic vows for yourself - and I highly recommend you do if you haven't realized where this review is headed yet.
The animals in the story are almost characters in and of themselves, and I always love that in a book, much as I do in real life. I absolutely love the rescue group and shelter that Tor and his family run. Breaks my heart that people can do such down right evil things to animals. And like Tor's sister Tess, I really don't like people much and generally prefer the company of animals.
There are so, so, so many things to love about this book. As I have been writing this ridiculously long review, I have been trying to think of negatives and they simply aren't there. I am left with a longing for more, but then again, I always am with books that touch my heart ... and this one did that much more than I guessed it would.
For fans of the Ashes and Embers series, you will love finding out more about Ash and his wife. As this isn't their book, their are still plenty of questions to be answered and holes to fill in, but there is more than we have gotten previously. There is a sweet cameo from Lukas, and mentions of Talon, Storm and Vandal. Rayne shows up quite a bit too. I missed visiting grandma, but she was mentioned. I also quite liked meeting Kenzi's mom's sister, Aunt Katherine. I definitely have a longing to visit her B&B on the coast of Maine.
It is an adults only read. It is one of my top reads of the year, and as such gets my highest recommendations. It can definitely be read as a standalone, as can all of Carian's, but, as mentioned, does have tie-ins to her other books, but none that are remotely vital to the story line. Leave any preconceived notions about the subject matter behind, and settle in for a great read. ...more
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