Thursday, May 30, 2013

Review: Broken at Love by Lyla Payne, Give Me Something by Elizabeth Lee


Title: Broken at Love (Whitman University #1)
Author: Lyla Payne
Published: March 12th 2013
Add It: Goodreads
Purchase: Amazon Barnes & Noble
When a knee injury ends twenty-year-old Quinn Rowland’s pro tennis career, he’s not only dumped by his hot Russian girlfriend but ordered to attend college by his disinterested billionaire father. A rich kid who’s not used to being disappointed by life, Quinn and his sociopathic half-brother Sebastian create a frat house game intended to treat girls how they see them—as simple game pieces to be manipulated for their pleasure.
I liked the idea of this one. Come on! I love the show Revenge and the synopsis for this kind of gave me that vibe, but only a teenage drama version of it. I’m also a big fan of tennis so I thought it would be fun to read about that, only.. there was very little of tennis-related in this story. The focus was more on the revenge-romance part. Both POVs. Wasn’t exactly insta-love, more like a bonding relationship between Quinn and Emilie which was good. It could have ended sooner and I didn’t feel like I got something special out of reading it though.

Rating: 2 out of 5 stars

Meet the author

Website Facebook Twitter Goodreads



Title: Give Me Something
Author: Elizabeth Lee
Published: March 3rd 2013
Add It: Goodreads
Purchase: Amazon | Barnes & Noble
Here's the deal... I learned a long time ago that sometimes you have to use what you've got to make things happen. What I happen to have is a pretty smile, long legs and the ability to make men believe anything I say. Before you get on your high horse and start judging me, can you honestly say you've never batted your lashes at some guy for a free drink at the bar? That's what I thought.

Keep that in mind as I tell you my story of how I took it one step further. My story of lies, deceit, manipulation and love. Yeah, love. Believe me, it fits. Especially, when you factor in Nick and Tucker – one had my heart and the other one wanted it all for himself. Which one? Well, I can't tell you that. It would defeat the purpose of the story. If I'm going to fill you in about me, Lila Garrison, and my life as a con artist you're going to need to know all the facts, including the ones about the two guys who made me want to give up the life of fancy clothes, expensive jewelry, fast cars and easy money. Because sometimes, one person can give you something that's more valuable than all of that.
Oh, Tucker, Tucker, Tucker... #sigh. I don’t know what to say other that I really, really enjoyed this book. It was very light and easy to read while not being boring. Some of the plot twists were interesting and the character growth was pretty remarkable during this short read. It was quite adorable and swoon-worthy. Oh, and two hot guys competing for your attention? One is in it to win it as Randy Jackson tends to say, the other seems to be just in it for his gain. BUT there’re many surprises ahead for our schemer-slash-con-artist and nothing is as it seems at first sight. Who'll stand on top when the masks come off and the truth is laid on the table? I give thumbs up for this one!

Rating: 4 out of 5 stars

Meet the author

Website | Facebook | Twitter | Goodreads


Tuesday, May 28, 2013

Teaser Tuesday #39

This is a weekly bookish meme hosted by MizB at Should Be Reading.

To participate you:
  • Grab your current read
  • Open to a random page
  • Share two (2) “teaser” sentences from somewhere on that page
  • BE CAREFUL NOT TO INCLUDE SPOILERS!
  • (Make sure that what you share doesn’t give too much away! You don’t want to ruin the book for others!) * Share the title & author, too, so that other TT participants can add the book to their TBR Lists if they like your teasers!

My teasers
I'm starting to see why Eldest was so ... so desperate.
...
When I'm done talking, I realize how silent she's been the whole time.
"Amy?" I ask softly.
She meets my eyes.
"Does this mean ... can I wake my parents up now?" 
Seriously? It's the same story as it was with the first one. It had been sitting on my shelf forever and I really have no excuse for not picking it up any sooner. It's surprisingly fast-paced and I'm taken aback by some of the revelations that have happened throughout the first 81 pages. So far so good.

p. 52-53 of A Million Suns (Across the Universe #2) by Beth Revis

Monday, May 27, 2013

Review: The Deepest Cut by J.A. Templeton

Title: The Deepest Cut (McKinnon Curse #1)
Author: J.A. Templeton
Published: October 1st 2011
Add It: Goodreads
Purchase: Amazon | Barnes & Noble | The Book Depository

Sixteen-year-old Riley Williams has been able to see ghosts since the car crash that took her mother’s life and shattered her family. Guilt-ridden over the belief that she’s somehow responsible for her mom’s death, Riley is desperate to see her mother’s elusive spirit to gain her forgiveness.

When her father moves the family to Scotland so they can all start over, Riley believes her life couldn’t get worse––that is until the ghost of nineteen-year-old Ian MacKinnon catches her purposely cutting herself. An uneasy truce quickly turns into friendship, and soon Riley’s falling hard for Ian.

Riley believes her gift could help Ian end the curse that has kept him tied to the land for centuries, but that would mean letting him go forever and she’s not sure she is strong enough to do that. As if her life wasn’t complicated enough, the spirit of the woman who killed Ian returns and she’ll stop at nothing to keep Riley from helping Ian find eternal peace.

This book has been on my TBR pile f-o-r-e-v-e-r. FOREVER! When it was chosen as a group read in one of the groups I’ve joined on Goodreads, I jumped on that train immediately. Also, it didn’t hurt that the book was free on Amazon. It has a really pretty cover and the synopsis sounds pretty great so it was bound to be an awesome read, right? Unfortunately, no.


"If he only knew how little I cared about living."

The story. The Deepest Cut follows the life of Riley who has recently lost her Mother in a car accident she feels like was her fault. She is a cutter. Oh, and among other things, she sees ghost. Yup, you heard me! Riley moves to Scotland with her Dad and her brother Shane. There she meets Ian – a ghost who has been trapped on Earth for centuries by a curse. While falling in love with a ghost, Riley has to deal with his killer and a new environment, a pot-head brother and new friends.

My thoughts. The story itself was good, but the writing was so all over the place for me and really, really jumpy from scene to scene. I like my writing smooth and flowing and even though sometimes I can overlook it, it didn’t quite work for me in this case. Moreover, I wasn’t emotionally invested unless it was about Shane and Riley. Their brother-sister relationship was what kept me reading the story rather than the ghost storylines.

The ending was good which makes me want to read the next one, but I won’t be doing that. Not for any time soon, that's for sure. I know a numerous part of the readers felt the creepiness factor, but it didn’t feel creepy for me at all. I’m not hard to scare so I think it speaks volume for that matter. In a way I’m glad I wasn’t frightened though – I’m a huge coward when it comes to horror stuff lol. If it’s still free on Amazon, give it a try – you may enjoy it. If it’s not, I say don’t waste your time.

Rating: 2 out of 5 stars

Meet the author

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Saturday, May 25, 2013

Book Haul #20

I am going on a book buying ban *__* I realized I have so many physical copies on my shelf to read and let's not even begin to talk about the ones in my Kindle. It's insane! I've received 12 physical books in the last two weeks so I've divided them into different parts and I'll showcase them throughout the weeks to you since otherwise I won't be doing any haul posts. Okay, the drill is always the same -- if you think some of these should be read first than the others, let me know and I'll push them up on my tbr list. Also, leave your links below so I can visit you back :)))

Physical copies



Now I have the first two and I'm so so so excited to finally start this series :) Yay!!


Ebooks



Dragonfly (Dragonfly #1) by Leigh Talbert Moore (arc)
Addicted to You (Addicted #1) to You by Krista and Becca Ritchie (arc)
Facade (Games #2) by Nyrae Dawn (cannot wait to read this baby!!!)


The Trouble with Goodbye by Sarra Cannon (arc)
The End Games by T. Michael Martin
A Thousand Words by Jennifer Brown

A huge thanks to Netgalley, AToMR Tours, Krista and Becca Ritchie, Sarra Cannon and Leigh Talbert Moore.

Oh, and dear followers, don't forget to participate in my 100 Followers Celebration Giveaway. Good luck, lovelies!

What did you get this week? Leave your links below and I'll check out your goodies :)

In My Mailbox is a weekly event hosted by The Mod Podge Bookshelf and Stacking the Shelves is a weekly event hosted by Tynga's Reviews.


Thursday, May 23, 2013

Review: Starcrossed by Josephine Angelini

Title: Starcrossed (Starcrossed #1)
Author: Josephine Angelini
Published: May 31st 2011
Add It: Goodreads
Purchase: Amazon | Barnes & Noble | The Book Depository

How do you defy destiny?
Helen Hamilton has spent her entire sixteen years trying to hide how different she is—no easy task on an island as small and sheltered as Nantucket. And it's getting harder. Nightmares of a desperate desert journey have Helen waking parched, only to find her sheets damaged by dirt and dust. At school she's haunted by hallucinations of three women weeping tears of blood . . . and when Helen first crosses paths with Lucas Delos, she has no way of knowing they're destined to play the leading roles in a tragedy the Fates insist on repeating throughout history.
As Helen unlocks the secrets of her ancestry, she realizes that some myths are more than just legend. But even demigod powers might not be enough to defy the forces that are both drawing her and Lucas together—and trying to tear them apart.

If they were to sell this series in an Estonian bookstore, I could not pass them by without ogling the covers. They’re gorgous! I had heard of these books all over blogosvere and the Internet so it was only a matter of time ‘til I would have found myself reading them. I am a fan of mythology and originality and these are the two departments where this book shines and stands out like a nebula on a cloudless night.

“I don’t care how hard being together is, nothing is worse than being apart.” 

Starcrossed is a completely compelling and original take on descendants of the Greek gods. The writing in general is very descriptive which I usually don't like but in this case surprisingly enjoyed. I even liked the romance part: I am not, in fact, a fan of insta love, but this was an insta love with a twist and surprisingly Angelini made it work for me! Lucas and Helen’s relationship grew from mutual respect and friendship in addition to lust and love. I was fascinated by their story and it was impossible for me to not cheer them on.

On the other hand, I’m not sure if I connected with any of the characters in a way I expected to. Helen, only sixteen, sometimes comes off a little immature and patience is definitely not her virtue. She is also very independent and strong. I do think with age she’ll mature, but for now she was a little too unstable for me. My favorite character was Hector though *winks* The other thing that bothered me was the far too long chapters part. I don’t think this will improve so I’ll just have to get used to it I guess.

Overall, it is a very, very strong start to a fascinating and compelling series that has a massive following. I believe it to be a very original take on Greek mythology and Angelini’s epic (in the sense of lyrical ‘n stuff) writing style definitely stands out among some other YA authors. I do believe it has room to grow, but I did very much enjoy it, thank you.

Rating: 4 out of 5 stars

Meet the author

Website | Facebook | Twitter | Goodreads

Wednesday, May 22, 2013

Review: True by Erin McCarthy


Title: True
Author: Erin McCarthy
Published: May 7th 2013
Add It: Goodreads
Purchase: Amazon | Barnes & Noble
*An ARC was provided in exchange for an honest review*
When Rory Macintosh’s roommates find out that their studious and shy friend has never been with a guy, they decide that, as an act of kindness they’ll help her lose her virginity by hiring confident, tattooed bad boy Tyler Mann to do the job…unbeknownst to Rory.

Tyler knows he’s not good enough for Rory. She’s smart, doctor smart, while he’s barely scraping by at his EMT program, hoping to pull his younger brothers out of the hell their druggy mother has left them in. But he can’t resist taking up her roommates on an opportunity to get to know her better. There’s something about her honesty that keeps him coming back when he knows he shouldn’t…

Torn between common sense and desire, the two find themselves caught up in a passionate relationship. But when Tyler’s broken family threatens to destroy his future, and hers, Rory will need to decide whether to cut her ties to his risky world or follow her heart, no matter what the cost…
Not sure what I was expecting going into this book, but the cover and the synopsis completely allured me in. I requested it on Netgalley and was a little reluctant to start reading since it seemed like people on Goodreads weren’t all satisfied with the story. I was ready to be disappointed, I’m not going to lie. Guess what? I didn’t have to disappoint!

“We had a fight with each other,” Kylie told him. “We cried on the sidewalk in front of the club. It was awesome. Best Girls’ Night ever. We laughed, we cried, we drank, we danced. Got punched in the face.”

The story. Rory is basically a 20 year old nerd and also a virgin. When her roommates find out that little fact about her, they set her up with a swoon-worthy bad boy. The only nuance is that Rory isn’t aware that it’s a set up. She starts to open up and she and Tyler have quite great chemistry between them. When Rory realizes it’s all a set-up, she must decide whether to give this chemistry a try or forget all about the boy that could very well be the one.

My thoughts. As you gathered from the introduction part, I was ready to be disappointed. I had no reason to worry though. It was such a quick and enjoyable read. The plot seems like the same old, same old, but McCarthy did an excellent job not portraying Rory as a damsel in the distress in the hands of an experienced guy. Tyler and Rory were a great match for each other and their chemistry was undeniable. Also, Rory is a very relatable character – she’s experiencing all sorts of firsts in her college years and I think most of us have discovered new sides to us while being in university. I know I find them more often than not.

I didn’t see all of the twists coming. There was something that allured me as a reader to find out more about the story. I absolutely adored Tyler’s brothers and their bond and the side characters weren’t that bad either. At first I was a little mad at Rory’s roommates when they stayed in Nathaniel’s apartment, but throughout the novel they grew on me. I do think that the ending was a little rushed though and could have been more developed, but it still worked for this particular situation.

In the end, I found True to be enjoyable and I’d recommend it to all New Adult fans out there as well as people who are up for a read about family bonds, forgiveness, character growth and quite a few laughing-out-loud moments. Yay on that little teaser chapter for Erin’s next book ;-) I had a feeling that one was coming and I’m oh, so glad! I can’t wait for the companion novel. Read on, lovelies!

Rating: 4 out of 5 stars

Meet the author

Website | Facebook | Twitter | Goodreads

Tuesday, May 21, 2013

100 Followers Celebration Giveaway

Hi lovelies! I haven't done a giveaway of my own on my blog, but it's about time I did one. When I first started this blog it was mainly for me and it still is. I love blogging and keeping tabs on my thoughts on the books I've read and voicing my opinion. However, I've come to realize that this blog would be nothing without you all! Whenever I'm really busy going to college, work, studying and now my intership -- trust me, it all takes up a lot of time -- and I really don't feel like blogging, you always inspire me to do it. I'm grateful for all of you cupcakes for following my precious baby. Thank you! *squeezes you all into a tight hug*


I want to give something back to all of you pumpkins all around the world. Sooo... You have a chance to win a book of your choice from The Book Depository. The giveaway is open to international entries as long as TBD ships for you. (You can see if they do here.) I wish all of you lovelies the best of luck! Thank you all, again!

a Rafflecopter giveaway
PS. All entries will be verified so no cheating, please.

Monday, May 20, 2013

Review: Ten Tiny Breaths by K.A. Tucker

Title: Ten Tiny Breaths (Ten Tiny Breaths #1)
Author: K.A. Tucker
Published: December 11th 2012
Add It: Goodreads
Purchase: Amazon | Barnes & Noble | The Book Depository
Four years after losing her parents, best friend, and boyfriend in a drunk driving accident, twenty-year-old Kacey Cleary runs away to begin a new life in Miami. Hardened by the tragedy, she's determined to keep everyone at a distance—until she meets an irresistible and mysterious neighbor who is determined to melt the ice over her heart. 

The hype around this one is so enormous that it’s hard not to raise the bar high for one’s expectations and it’s hard to surpass them once they’re sky high. I had these kind of hopes and luckily I was mostly rewarded with satisfactory feelings and K.A. Tucker is now one of the authors I want to explore more of.

“Just breathe. Ten tiny breaths … Seize them. Feel them. Love them.” 

What I adored the most about this book was that it was divided into the stages of grief. No LOL moments for me in particular, but smirks, butterflies and tears were a part of my reading experience regarding Ten Tiny Breaths. I adored Trent as a hero and his patience was remarkable! He was a good sport in getting Kacey to get to know him and pick her interest. Did I mention sexy already? Yup, he was sexy alright! The physical scenes were very realistic. This book had just the amount of racy and swoon-worthy scenes to make me want more, but be happy about the ones we did get.

Oh, I even got a rocket-scientist moment: as soon as I “saw” Trent’s tattoo, I knew!!! It was still good to have confirmation further on though. I liked that the novel itself didn’t go overboard with the story nor was it prettified for us. The plot was raw and emotional. The only thing I didn’t enjoy was that Kacey is a hard character to connect with. She doesn't let anybody inside and being inside her head often  felt calculated and cold rather than curious, warm and fun. Her sister Livie is much more relatable and since Kacey is emotionally so closed off, it makes the road to brake her walls so much more harder for us.

At the end of the day, I enjoyed it very much, but as it often is with hype books, it can sometimes ruin the experience for a reader. Don’t get me wrong, it was a fantastic book, but it didn’t stand out to me as much as I would have hoped. Nonetheless, I’d recommend this one in a heartbeat and I hope you’ll all get around reading it:)

Rating: 4 out of 5 stars

Meet the author

Website | Facebook | Twitter | Goodreads

Saturday, May 18, 2013

Book Haul #19

I don't remember when was the last time I was THIS excited to share my haul with you lovelies. Guess what?! I got a Kindle! And not just any Kindle. A Kindle Paperwhite. Uh-uh ;) I am really, really, really glad I got this baby. I actually didn't have an e-reader before so it's good to finally have one. It's brilliant! I asked advice from Jenni, Giselle and Jenny and they were all very helpful. Thanks, ladies! I also got a leather case for it. I've had it for a week and a half now and eeeek! I have the biggest smile on my face right now. I am just very happy with it at the moment and I hope I won't have anything to be disappointed about. I've been reading on it a lot (never mind my promise not to because I have exams coming next week already) and since it's warm and sunny outside, I've been sitting on our terrace every day after classes at uni or work and just taking time to relax by studying there and, of course, reading. Yay! It's a really good reading device and I honestly don't know how I survived so long withouth one. I definitely know now what I've been missing this whole time. Anyhow, here's a picture of actualy proof that I really got one lol.


As for the books, I've already read all of the physical ones, but I have a habit of purchasing physical copies in addition of books that I've enjoyed as ebooks. Just so I can re-read them I guess. Also, The Iron Fey box set was about 50% off for a day recently and I couldn't not get it. Love Julie Kagawa! She's a great author and Ash, Meghan and Puck deserve to be re-read. Pushin the Limits was one of my favorite contemporaries last year so of course I wanted it as a physical copy as well.


The Iron King (The Iron Fey #1) by Julie Kagawa (my review here)
The Iron Daughter (The Iron Fey #2) by Julie Kagawa (my review here)
The Iron Queen (The Iron Fey #3) by Julie Kagawa (my review here)
The Iron Knight (The Iron Fey #4) by Julie Kagawa (my review here)

Ebooks


Reboot (Reboot #1) by Amy Tintera

Thanks to Penguin and Netgalley for Gameboard of Gods arc and Jenni at Alluring Reads, Giselle at Xpresso Reads and Jenny at Supernatural Snark for advice on purchasing an e-reader. 


What did you get this week? Leave your links below and I'll check out your goodies :)

In My Mailbox is a weekly event hosted by The Mod Podge Bookshelf and Stacking the Shelves is a weekly event hosted by Tynga's Reviews.

Thursday, May 16, 2013

Review: Shatter Me by Tahereh Mafi


Title: Shatter Me (Shatter Me #1)
Author: Tahereh Mafi
Published: November 15th 2011
Add It: Goodreads
Purchase: Amazon | Barnes & Noble | The Book Depository
Juliette hasn’t touched anyone in exactly 264 days.
The last time she did, it was an accident, but The Reestablishment locked her up for murder. No one knows why Juliette’s touch is fatal. As long as she doesn’t hurt anyone else, no one really cares. The world is too busy crumbling to pieces to pay attention to a 17-year-old girl. Diseases are destroying the population, food is hard to find, birds don’t fly anymore, and the clouds are the wrong color.
The Reestablishment said their way was the only way to fix things, so they threw Juliette in a cell. Now so many people are dead that the survivors are whispering war – and The Reestablishment has changed its mind. Maybe Juliette is more than a tortured soul stuffed into a poisonous body. Maybe she’s exactly what they need right now.
Juliette has to make a choice: Be a weapon. Or be a warrior.

Could everyone who hasn’t heard of this book please raise a hand? Yeah.. That’s what I thought. This series is very talked about and the new cover art definitely allures (most of) us to experience it ourselves. I had put off reading Shatter Me long enough so I finally caved in and finished it within two nights.

“I hope it’s not too late to fight back”

The story. Shatter Me introduces us to a world where environment has been ruined by its inhabitants. This kinda hits close to home since I do agree that we should treat our planet more carefully but since it’s not an environment protection essay, I’ll leave it at that. Juliette is our girl and she is locked up in a pretty freaky institution. Why, you ask? She killed someone with her bare hands just by merely touching one. She’s been alone, silent with her thoughts for 246 days until now – the day she gets a cellmate.

My thoughts. Of course I had heard of the unique writing style. It was hard to adjust to it and it was probably the reason I didn’t connect to Juliette that much, although I must admit, the writing style at the beginning of the book is genius. The more the book progressed, the more usual the writing became and mostly because of the changes inside Juliette. I liked how she opened up and what part Adam played in it. #TeamAdam. Oh, by the way, Kenji? He was introduced in the last third of the book but he became my favorite character nonetheless.

At first I didn’t mind the lack of information about the society and how it came to be. Come on! It’s been so talked about – we’re destroying Earth yada yada yada. What more is there to add as an author? The lack of action didn’t bother me either at first since the writing was so unique and took me by surprise. However, now, 2 days after finishing it, I realize that not much happened action wise nor in general. Yes, we have our villain, our hero, our strong heroine, escaping, romance, fighting back etc. It’s nothing I haven’t seen though.

To sum up my review, I’d say that the covers are gorgeous (sorry, I couldn’t not mention it ;)), the synopsis was great, the feedback from fans is awesome, the writing is unique, Tahereh herself is out of this world hilarious but but but there was just something missing for me. It’s such a shame. I really wanted to love, adore and pet this book, unfortunately it didn’t satisfy my needs enough. I'll still pick up the sequel even though I'm terrified of that inevitable and silly love triangle. (Oh, boy...)

Rating: 3 out of 5 stars

Meet the author

Website | Facebook | Twitter | Goodreads

Tuesday, May 14, 2013

Teaser Tuesday #38


This is a weekly bookish meme hosted by MizB at Should Be Reading.

To participate you:
  • Grab your current read
  • Open to a random page
  • Share two (2) “teaser” sentences from somewhere on that page
  • BE CAREFUL NOT TO INCLUDE SPOILERS!
  • (Make sure that what you share doesn’t give too much away! You don’t want to ruin the book for others!) * Share the title & author, too, so that other TT participants can add the book to their TBR Lists if they like your teasers!

My teasers

With a garbled noise of distress I clamped an arm over my breasts and a hand in front of my vajajay. Pale blue eyes met my horrified grey gaze. "What are you doing in my apartment?"

p. of On Dublin Street (On Dublin Street #1) by Samantha Young

Monday, May 13, 2013

Review: Reckless by S.C. Stephens

Title: Reckless (Thoughtless #3)
Author: S.C. Stephens
Published:
Add It: Goodreads
Purchase: Amazon | Barnes & Noble | The Book Depository

When the band hits it big, Kiera and Kellan must ask themselves: Can their love for each other survive the constant pressures of superstardom? The friendships they've formed, the new family they've found, and the history they've forged will all play a part in helping them navigate the turbulent waters of the band's exploding popularity. A greedy executive hell-bent on success, a declining pop star looking for an edge, and a media circus that twists lies into truths are just some of the obstacles the lovers will have to overcome if they are going to remain together. Fame comes with a price-but will it cost Kiera and Kellan everything?

I feel like Kiera became her own person in this one. Even though at times that calmness of hers didn’t feel that organic to me, I’m really proud that she has surpassed these infidelity issues and sets a few goals of her own in this book. You know… The idea of Kiera writing and publishing her book felt as S.C. was giving a piece of her own experience for us. I liked that. 

“Because I love you more than any one person should be allowed to love someone."

One thing I didn’t like was that Kell-Sex name. Wth? It sounded so bad, sorry. I think it should have been something along the names like Kellenna, Siellan, Kylston – I don’t know… What I do know is that Kell-Sex sounded soooooo cheesy and wrong. Oh, the other thing I kind of don’t get is how did Kiera get all of these bartenders and girls close to her together with Matt, Evan, Griffin and Justin? It sounds way too convenient. Still, I’m not going to complain since I just found this to be funny and a little unbelievable, that’s all.

Okay, more about great stuff? I know Kellan and Kiera are the heart of the story, but Griffin – my god! I couldn’t have wiped a smile off my silly face even if I tried to. Every time his name was mentioned, I just had this goofy grin on my face from one ear to the other. I simply adore this Neanderthal. LOL. He is literally the life of the party and I can’t imagine these books without him. When life gets serious for our beloved hero and his girl, Griffin is bound to make us laugh with his killer remarks and sex jokes. My mind will never be the same when I watch a movie about Hulk. Haha. I can’t believe I just wrote that.

This final installment is everything I hoped for and even more. I was ready to give it a decent 3 stars as I did for the first two books. I know I was a bit harsh with the first two, but I really do love this series and it’s one I will be re-ready many, many times in the future. Reckless was alluring, sexy, adorable, a tear-jerker, one that gave me goofy grins and quite a few laughing-out-loud moments. I think this series being picked up by Atria books could not have been better and I am so glad that our favorite rock star and his soul mate finally got their chance of happiness they deserve.

P.S. I know there have been talks about the first book being written from Kellan’s POV. While I don’t mind that, I’d love a story about Anna and Griffin – their life before and after Gibson. Yup, I love that idea very much, thank you! (I just gathered from S.C.'s webpage that she is indeed considering these two - Thoughtless from Kellan's POV and a novella for Griffin and Anna. Hell to the hallelujah, I say!)

Rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars

Meet the author

Website | Facebook | Twitter | Goodreads

Thursday, May 9, 2013

Review: Fallen Crest High by Tijan

Title: Fallen Crest High (Fallen Crest High #1)
Author: Tijan
Published: October 31st 2012
Add It: Goodreads
Purchase: Amazon
Mason and Logan Kade are two brothers who did their own thing. They were rich and expected to attend her school, Fallen Crest Academy. They chose public school and now Samantha has to live with them. The problem is that she doesn't care at all: about them, about her friends, about her cheating boyfriend, or even about her parent's divorce. But maybe that's a good thing. Maybe change is a good thing.
The thing is that Mason and Logan Kane are probably what you’d find in a dictionary if you were to look up ‘trouble’. These two along with their friend Nate don’t mess around. BUT, they’re also synonyms to loyalty, protection and love. Yes, love. If they love someone, they do it with passion and boy did Mase and Sam have passion. I am taken aback by Mason’s hotness, by the way. Every time he walked in, I had to fan myself, literally. He is soooooo hawt!! And Logan is hilarious!

“I run to run." (meaning: she runs physically to run away emotionally.)

It’s funny, because I cried more than once while I was reading Broken and Screwed, but I didn’t while I was enjoying this one. It’s so much darker and really twisted. I really liked different types of characters and their interactions. I loved how Mason and Sam have a relationship that has nothing to do with being step-siblings, but at the same time Sam has a bond with Logan too. After I finished FCH, I stalked Tijan’s FB page and read the teasers (oh, my, by the way!!) and there were lots of comments regarding Mason-Sam-Logan and not one person mentioned wanting Logan and Sam to be romantically linked so I hope Tijan takes that into consideration while writing the sequel.

As for the other characters, most of them were douches. Especially Sam’s Mom, Jessica, Miranda and almost everyone else. I still had fun watching them do stupid stunts and be teenagers, even if sometimes these intrigues were over the top. What do you expect from an elite school in literature anyway? Exactly! Oh, and what was up with Becky? That girl was seriously too obsessed with gossip. If she were to turn half as much attention to herself, just maybe she’d get the guy of her dreams. She’d give Gossip Girl a run for one’s money.

Ahhh, and that not-cliff-hanger-cliff-hanger? I want to know what happens next so bad, I can’t even tell you how much. All these feelings. *gaaahh* I literally thought about FCH for two days straight after finishing it and I re-read my favorite parts over at least three times if not more. The funny remarks, snarky attitudes, hot smexy scenes, layered characters – it was really good. I didn’t expect to like this book so much. I’m so glad I stumbled upon Tijan on GR. Since she’s just in the beginning of her writing career, there’s room for improvement, but the potential is remarkable. I didn't mind the somewhat makes-no-sense plotlines and these not so advanced vocabulary and storytelling issues, because I got so sucked into the story that I didn't even bother to turn my attention to everything imperfect. I give thumbs up to this one! (On a side note: yuck on the cover.)

Rating: 4 out of 5 stars

Meet the author

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Wednesday, May 8, 2013

Review: Rules of Entanglement by Gina L. Maxwell


Title: Rules of Entanglement (Fighting for Love #2)
Author: Gina L. Maxwell
Published: March 31st 2013
Add It: Goodreads
Purchase: Amazon | Barnes & Noble
*A review copy was provided in exchange for an honest review*

Seven days. And seven rules to break...
District Attorney Vanessa McGregor firmly believes that structure and order are the stuff that dreams are made of. Happiness can be planned - and it starts with seven rules she's laid out for her future. But as she's organizing her best friend's wedding in Hawaii, all of Vanessa's best-laid plans are about to meet their match in a wickedly hot MMA fighter...
Jackson "Jax" Maris is focused on surfing, training and fighting. That is, until he opens up his big mouth, and finds himself having to pretend he's engaged to his little sister's best friend, Vanessa. When they're force to share a romantic bungalow, however, their little charade suddenly takes a turn for the seriously sexy. And while Jax is definitely not part of Vanessa's long-term plan, he has seven days - and seven naughty nights - to turn her seven-rule plan upside down

Entangled’s Brazen imprint is known for its books filled with sizzling chemistry, drool-worthy male characters and sexual tension. I have enjoyed most of the ones I’ve read. They’re easy to follow, fun and short. Most importantly, they’re companion novels so you don’t have to read the whole series to follow the storylines. When I saw Rules of Entanglement’s synopsis, I was sure it was bound to be a fun ride.

“Never date a man who can’t out-drink you in tequila.” 

The story. We have Vanessa, an attorney, and Jackson, a surfer and an MMA fighter, as the main couple or rather fake fiancĆ©es. Vanessa’s best friend, who among other things is Jackson’s sister, is marrying Jackson’s best friend Reid. Vanessa and Jax pretend to be engaged so they can arrange their friends’ wedding. Jax is intrigued by Vanessa and makes a promise to himself to break down Vanessa’s walls and make her break her seven rules.

My thoughts. I read it mostly when I was taking a bus to home-university-home and most of the time I must have looked like a lunatic for trying not to smile. I’m a rule follower by nature (come on, Virgo alert here!) and it was fun to see Jax break Vanessa’s walls and rules down like it was something he does for a living.  Jax was such a fun character to read about and boy did these two have hot chemistry and tons of tension. The only thing I didn't enjoy was that the um.. love blossomed in a really short time. It wasn't forced though and took lots of doubting and decision-making in order to make it work between these two.

I’d recommend this story to every Brazen fan as well as readers who enjoy great chemistry and fun plots in addition to exotic destinations. I WANT TO GO TO HAWAII NOW!!! Oh and body shots have never sounded so good, trust me! I think it was the best I've read from this Entangled’ imprint and I thoroughly enjoyed this sizzling book.

Rating: 4 out of 5 stars

Meet the author

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Tuesday, May 7, 2013

Teaser Tuesday #37


This is a weekly bookish meme hosted by MizB at Should Be Reading.

To participate you:
  • Grab your current read
  • Open to a random page
  • Share two (2) “teaser” sentences from somewhere on that page
  • BE CAREFUL NOT TO INCLUDE SPOILERS!
  • (Make sure that what you share doesn’t give too much away! You don’t want to ruin the book for others!) * Share the title & author, too, so that other TT participants can add the book to their TBR Lists if they like your teasers!

My teasers
"I think I'll go to bed too" I said. Before I tear her fingers off. 
"I'll walk you to your room. I'll even sing you a lullaby ... and maybe you could show me what makes you howl," Connor said, a smile sliding across his mouth. 
God I wish Connor was a love interest for Calla (the MC). He is just plain awesome! I hope he and Adne are love interests for each other since the sexual tension is killing me lol.

p. 172 of Wolfspane by Andrea Cremer

Monday, May 6, 2013

Review, Excerpt and Giveaway of Of Silver and Beasts by Trisha Wolfe


Title: Of Silver and Beasts (Goddess Wars #1)
Author: Trisha Wolfe
Published: April 19th 2013
Add It: Goodreads
Purchase: Amazon | Barnes & Noble
In the sand-covered queendom of Cavan, the goddess once saved a young Kaliope’s life, preventing the mercury her father attempted to hide in her blood from reaching her heart. Now, a cybernetic clamp filters it, but the silver streaks swirling faintly beneath her skin are a constant reminder that she’s different.
When nineteen-year-old Kaliope is chosen as head of the Nactue Guard, she becomes the sworn protector to her empress. In the midst of an invasion on a neighboring land, Kaliope is placed in charge of guarding Prince Caben, the last heir to his kingdom. But when they’re attacked by the feared Otherworlders, Caben and Kaliope are abducted and taken below to a realm where they must fight for their life in a caged arena.
Kaliope struggles to protect her princely charge, keeping him and herself alive while battling inhumanly opponents, and trying to save the stolen, sacred relic that will restore her empress’s life force and all of Cavan. And if she can somehow awaken the goddess within her, she may save what’s most important.
New Adult Dark Fantasy: Intended for readers 17 years of age and older.

I accidentally stumbled upon Tuff Girls sign ups and I am so beyond glad I did, because I probably wouldn’t have seen this book otherwise. And I got to read it before the masses did! YAY! It was a completely different experience for me in the sense that usually when I have a review book on my hands, I think about the rating and critique, but in this case, I didn’t remember to concentrate on the pros and cons, I just enjoyed the ride of awesomeness.

The story. Kaliope is a protector of her empress and leads the Nactue which is the empress’ personal guard group of 5 young female protectors. She gets assigned to guard a prince from an alliance country and when the underworlders attack her country, she and the prince get kidnapped in the process. Now, in the underworld, they must fight for their life in a cage against others alike. Nothing is as it seems and Kaliope’s faith in her goddesses and in her own abilities to protect the innocents as well as her loved ones is put to an unimaginable test.

My thoughts. It was a first time for me to read about a matriarch society which itself was so intriguing and different. Mad props for Trisha for pulling it off! Gah, I want to tell you so much, but I don’t want to spoil it so bare with me while I ramble. We have a strong, kick-ass and rational heroine who now belongs to the group named ‘my favorite heroines of all time’. Kaliope has a good head on her shoulders and in addition to being a fierce warrior, she is a kind, strong, old soul who grows a lot throughout the novel.

What else do we have? Let’s see: A swoon-worthy hero who among other things is a prince? Check. Love that blossoms from respect and friendship? Check. A dark, exciting and an original tale? Check. It had everything I expect from a great book. There was this one scene where I was so frustrated that nothing happened, but it was compensated more than enough a little further on. The story takes place in a matter of days, but it actually feels longer so the romance, which takes the backseat in the plot, feels natural and real. It's definitely not head-over-heels or insta-love.

The ending left me in a range of emotions of love and rage and everything in between because I loved the book, but I was so sad that it was over and that ending left me craving for more. It was unputdownable, addictive, original, dark and twisted. Moreover, there were scenes that made me want to barf due to its gruesomeness and sob my eyes out due to how emotionally painful it was. WARNING: do not eat while you’re reading the cage fight scenes. I almost gagged while chewing a Caesar salad lol. It get’s messy!!

Rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars


The Excerpt


Did I mention that the excerpt I'm gonna share with you is (coincidentially) my favorite scene from the whole book? Yes yes yes! I am so happy that this scene in particular was picked. It's actually one of the few brighter scenes since the rest of the book is really dark. I hope you enjoy :-)

The cool sensation of the fresh water on my skin helps me forget my nerves and I lie back, floating just below the top of the water. My body dulls, the cold soothing my sore muscles, and I welcome the numbness. The ceiling of the cave is sprinkled with tiny clusters of white lights, dotting the canopy above our heads like stars in the sky. I feel as if I’m sitting on the rooftop of my apartment, staring at the night sky, not here in the Otherworld, awaiting my death.

The water rolls, rocking my body, and I glance over as Caben floats up beside me. He’s on his back also, and points to the lights dusting the cave ceiling.

“Diamonds,” he says.

“Really?” I don’t know much about any minerals other than mercury. And somehow, diamonds as our stars makes my chest heavy. It’s too beautiful. “How can you tell?”

“The ultraviolet light shows the impurities,” he says. “The imperfections actually absorb the dark light, causing the diamond to emit a visible glow.” He chuckles. “A very expensive lighting effect.”

I laugh. “Quite expensive.” They twinkle as they reflect the rippling water. “But almost more heavenly than the stars.” I lower my voice at the end, hoping he didn’t hear my spoken thoughts.

Caben doesn’t speak, and the trickling of the stream and lap of the pool becomes the only sound as we float in compatible silence. I could drift off, fall asleep in this peaceful place, but I know we still have a mission to complete before the Reckoning.

This thought awakens me, and I touch my feet to the bottom of the pool and begin to wade toward the edge.

I hear Caben’s heavy groan. “No you don’t,” he says, and captures the bottom of my tunic. He tugs me through the water, back to the pool’s center. “Not yet. This could be our last reprieve, and I plan for us to enjoy it.”

As I turn to face him, his fingers slip from my shirt to my waist, grazing my stomach. My skin prickles, and I shiver, matching the trembling water around us. His deep blue eyes meet mine, and he swallows, his Adam’s apple working. Slowly, he begins to inch up my tunic—

“Wait.” I place my hand on top of his.

He cranes an eyebrow. “It should really have time to dry before we go back.”

Logically, that makes sense. But the heated look he’s giving me says so much more. And regardless of the attraction I may feel for the prince—a woman would have to be blind—and whether or not we actually escape this hell ... what then? We share an intimate moment once, and go back to our stations in life, simply pretending nothing happened?

Or maybe I’m reading too much into his gaze. He’s a man, and physical desire is self-serving. He may die ... and he probably wants to bed a woman one last time. Everything about his character screams he’s not one who thinks past the moment.

I could lose myself for now, give in to the pulse quickening my blood with need, but I’ve never shown a man the clamp over my heart. It would have to be something I did for a different reason if I ever chose to do so. Not merely because I may die soon.

As I push his hand away and start to swim off, he grasps my waist, encircling his firm arms around my stomach, and pulls my back to his chest.

“Don’t run from me,” he breathes into my ear. “I’m not asking for anything. Not even whatever it is you’re hiding. Just stay here.”

Help Trisha and the Tuff Girl Legion get to 50 reviews on Amazon to read this full scene from Caben’s POV! Scene will release on Trisha’s blog. You can bookmark the bonus material here!



The Giveaway



Meet the author

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Saturday, May 4, 2013

Book Haul #18

As promised, this is my second half of the physical books I received during my 'book haul hiatus'. As always, if you've read any of these books, let me know in the comments. Life is short and I only want to read awesome books so if you loved/hated some of them, name 'em and I'll rearrange my TBR shelf accordingly. Don't forget to leave me your link in the comments so I can visit you back :)


Physical Books



Hallowed (Unearthly #2) by Cynthia Hand
Gone (Gone #1) by Michael Grant

Ebooks


Coffee and Cockpits by Jade Hart (free from Amazon)



What did you get this week? Leave your links below and I'll check out your goodies :)

In My Mailbox is a weekly event hosted by The Mod Podge Bookshelf and Stacking the Shelves is a weekly event hosted by Tynga's Reviews.

Friday, May 3, 2013

Cover reveal and Giveaway: Addicted to You by Krista and Becca Ritchie

It doesn't happen often that fellow bloggers as known as these two lovely girls from the Nawada Files are publishing one's own book. Krista and Becca are brave enough, braver than me at least, to start their own journey as authors and I'm glad to be a part of this by revealing the cover of their novel Addicted to You. The cover was designed by Hafsah from Icey Designs.

Title: Addicted to You (Addicted #1)
Author: Krista and Becca Ritchie
Genre: New Adult Contemporary
Published: July 1st 2013
Add It: Goodreads

Two addictions. One lie.
No one would suspect shy, Lily Calloway’s biggest secret. While everyone is dancing at college bars, Lily stays in the bathroom. To get laid. Her compulsion leads her to one-night stands, steamy hookups and events she shamefully regrets. The only person who knows her secret happens to have one of his own.
Loren Hale’s best friend is his bottle of bourbon. Lily comes at a close second. For three years, they’ve pretended to be in a real relationship, hiding their addictions from their families. They’ve mastered the art of concealing flasks and random guys that filter in and out of their apartment.
But when they go on a family boat trip, surrounded by open seas and limited male bodies in sight, Lily’s confronted with a big fear. Only one guy onboard can fill her addiction, and she’s sworn off going there with Loren Hale ever again.
Now the only person who can truly help her, can barely help himself.

My thoughts

What do you think of it? For me it wasn't even a question - as soon as I saw the description for their debut novel, I knew it was something I wanted to read. The cover is gorgeous as well. I like it! The girl is really pretty (and kinda sad and compelling), the coloring is well chosen and there is, indeed, something addictive about the cover, isn't there?

The giveaway

Also, Krista and Becca were lovely enough to offer you all a giveaway of a New Adult book of your choice. It's possible to receive your prize from The Book Depository so all international entries are welcome as long as TBD ships to you. Good luck lovelies!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Wednesday, May 1, 2013

Excerpt and Giveaway: Wide Awake by Shelly Crane

Today I have the amazing opportunity to offer you a chance to win a book that is one of the top TBR books on my 'to read' list. I have a ton of them and this, this is a book I really, really want to read. I hope you give your luck a chance and I'm keeping my fingers crossed for all of you lovelies. Good luck!

Title: Wide Awake 
Author: Shelly Crane
Release date: March 23, 2013
Genre: Contemporary Young Adult
Event organized by: AToMR Tours
Add it: Goodreads
Purchase: Amazon Barnes & NobleSmashwords

A girl.
A coma.
A life she can't remember.
When Emma Walker wakes up in the hospital with no knowledge of how she got there, she learns that she's been in a coma for six months. Strangers show up and claim to be her parents, but she can't remember them. She can't remember anyone. Not her friends, not even her boyfriend. Even though she can't remember, everyone wants her to just pick up where she left off, but what she learns about the 'old her' makes her start to wish she'd never woken up. Her boyfriend breaks up with the new girl he's dating to be with her, her parents want her to start planning for college, her friends want their leader back, and her physical therapist with the hazel eyes keeps his distance to save his position at the hospital.
Will she ever feel like she recognizes the girl in the mirror?

The excerpt

He smiled that Mason smile that set me on fire all over. Then he put one hand on the other side on the hospital bed and the other lifted toward my face. I waited, bated breath, gulping, sweaty palms, fluttering eyes, the works. His face got so close before he stopped. I thought he had decided against whatever he was doing he waited so long. I began to pull back in disappointment, but he reached behind my neck gently and pulled me to him. The barest of touches was the best way to describe our first kiss. It wasn't really a kiss at all. His bottom lip barely brushed my top one. When he leaned back and opened his eyes, he must've seen the confusion and frustration in my face.

He chuckled. "I just had to taste that coconut…" he licked his lips, "but I don't want to kiss you when you've been angry at me and I messed up our date." He said 'date'. Like…a date. "I want to kiss you when if we go another second without it, one of us will combust."

My breaths were raging. I tried to calm myself. "I…" I failed.

"I want to give you back your first kiss, the one that jerk stole from you. And I want it to be something that even a coma can't make you forget."

Can I just say.. SWOON? Big! Time! I. Am. In. Love. Already. 

The Giveaway


a Rafflecopter giveaway

Meet the author

YA author from a small town in Georgia and loves everything about the south. She is wife to a fantastical husband and stay at home mom to two boisterous and mischievous boys who keep her on her toes. They currently reside in everywhere USA as they happily travel all over with her husband's job. She loves to spend time with her family, binge on candy corn, go out to eat at new restaurants, buy paperbacks at little bookstores, site see in the new areas they travel to, listen to music everywhere and also LOVES to read. Her own books happen by accident and she revels in the writing and imagination process. She doesn't go anywhere without her notepad for fear of an idea creeping up and not being able to write it down immediately, even in the middle of the night, where her best ideas are born.

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