Defy by Sara B. Larson

Release Date: January 7, 2014

A lush and gorgeously written debut, packed with action, intrigue, and a thrilling love triangle.

Alexa Hollen is a fighter. Forced to disguise herself as a boy and serve in the king's army, Alex uses her quick wit and fierce sword-fighting skills to earn a spot on the elite prince's guard. But when a powerful sorcerer sneaks into the palace in the dead of night, even Alex, who is virtually unbeatable, can't prevent him from abducting her, her fellow guard and friend Rylan, and Prince Damian, taking them through the treacherous wilds of the jungle and deep into enemy territory.

The longer Alex is held captive with both Rylan and the prince, the more she realizes that she is not the only one who has been keeping dangerous secrets. And suddenly, after her own secret is revealed, Alex finds herself confronted with two men vying for her heart: the safe and steady Rylan, who has always cared for her, and the dark, intriguing Damian. With hidden foes lurking around every corner, is Alex strong enough to save herself and the kingdom she's sworn to protect?

 

First I want to say I'm sorry that I have been MIA. Again. I was out of state last week and then my 3 year old had surgery on Monday so I've had my hands full and my mind on other things. Anyway...

 

I've never done an ARC tour before. To be honest, I'm always nervous about getting the book, finishing the book, liking the book, reviewing the book, and getting the book to where it needs to be after me. It just seemed like more than I wanted to commit myself to. But when my friend Katie told me about a "locals only" book tour, I decided that I wanted to give it a try. 

 

Then.... after I signed up for the tour, I read the book synopsis. It sounded a lot like another book I read last year (and loved). I wasn't sure if I would connect to a story that I felt had already been told. Of course at this point I had loads of anxiety and was thinking, This is exactly why I don't do book tours! And now I'm friends with the author on Facebook and if I hate her book and have to review it there is absolutely NO WAY she won't see it (and, c'mon, we all know I'm not shy about giving a bad review if I hate a book). What did I get myself into?!?!?

 

One day, Defy showed up in my mailbox. I opened it with dread in the pit of my stomach and began reading. And kept reading. And as I read, the dread dissolved. I found myself completely drawn into a story that consumed my thoughts. The horrors Alexa ("Alex") saw. The arrogant and aloof prince. And Rylan. Sweet, best friend Rylan.

 

The dangerous secrets. The intriguing and fast paced plot. The different degrees of love mixed with the abundant hatred of war. Once I started, I literally could not stop. And not only was it not anything like that other story as I feared, it blew not only that book, but most others with similar settings, OUT OF THE WATER. I am so excited that I was able to experience this book early. I am even more enthused to share my thoughts and recommend it to you all. 

 

This is not a "check out from the library" or "borrow from a friend" book. This is the book that you get off your behind for, put some jeans and makeup on for, go out to your local bookstore (or front porch if you order it on Amazon) for, and BUY. I know I've already read it, but I am still counting down the days until it comes out so I can purchase a copy and re-read it immediately. This is not one to pass up. Seriously add it to your "To Buy" list or mark January 7th on your calendars. You will be so glad you did!

 

Happy Reading! 

Prodigy by Marie Lu

SPOILER ALERT!!

This is the SECOND book in a trilogy.

Read Legend by Marie Lu before reading this review!

  Release Date: January 29, 2013

 Injured and on the run, it has been seven days since June and Day barely escaped Los Angeles and the Republic with their lives. Day is believed dead having lost his own brother to an execution squad who thought they were assassinating him. June is now the Republic's most wanted traitor. Desperate for help, they turn to the Patriots - a vigilante rebel group sworn to bring down the Republic. But can they trust them or have they unwittingly become pawns in the most terrifying of political games?

Amazingly, I think I'm finally done throwing my temper tantrum and am ready to review another trilogy. Especially since the final book in this particular trilogy just came out TODAY. So now I feel a burning desire to get you all hooked on Marie Lu, too.

 

This may have been the best *second book* I've ever read.

Honestly.

And you all know I have serious problems when it comes THOSE.

I'm not sure what it is about June and Day, but I just can't get enough of them. They are not only awesome characters alone, but they are even better together. When I finished the first book in the series, Legend (review HERE), I felt much the same thing I always do when I finish a really awesome book that I know is going to be a series.....DREAD. It's sounds silly but I always cringe when I think about a continuation of a really great story. I have been let down so many times. And if it's not the second book that bombs, it's the final book (which I promise you is much more catastrophic. But we won't get started on that...again.) I have to tell you that Marie Lu absolutely knows what she's doing when it comes to a series. Instead of June and Day severely disappointing me with general stupidity and drama like other *cough* unnamed couples do in the "means to an end" (second) book--wonder of wonders, miracle of miracles!--there was none of that to be found! They were just as crazy and adventurous and easy to love as they were when I first met them. Hallelujah.

I love when I find a story that I never want to end. One that still surprises me with twists and turns that I never saw coming. One where the characters are real and I root for them and hurt for them--sometimes at the same time. This is that book. This is THAT series. If you read on, even when I told you not to, I hope you are glad you did. I hope you want to read these books. Because they WANT to be read, they NEED to be read. And yes, I did cave and buy them because THEY ARE WORTH EVERY PENNY. Now if I can practice self control and save Champion (the final book) for my trip this weekend... Will power! I can do this!

 ... Oh, pray for me. LOL

 Happy Reading!

Losing Faith

I really was going to post a book review today but I've had something on my mind literally all day that I wanted to talk to you all about.

So, recently a book was released that was the concluding book in a series. I'm not going to say which one it was (so don't ask), but it was a startling and incredibly huge disappointment. This isn't the first time this has happened and I feel like it needs addressing.

The problem is this: Writers building up a story, sucking in readers until they are thoroughly invested in the characters and what happens to them, only to write a CRAP ENDING. Like a REALLY crap ending.

Now I wouldn't have even brought this up unless something devastatingly catastrophic happened that pissed me off enough to broach the subject. And frankly, I'm frustrated and annoyed that this is even something I need to talk about.

Why are authors becoming more interested in a shock factor and less interested in 1) doing justice to a story that started out so fantastic, 2) the attachment of millions of readers, and 3) writing an ending they can be proud of?

It has made me lose faith in authors of series. Honestly. You all know that I have a difficult time already with "second books", and I rely on a strong ending to draw me back into a story and remind me why I loved it in the first place. I, as a reader, expect a CONCLUSION. I expect the characters, not necessarily to get a "happily ever after", but for the ending to be something that I can at least say, "Hmmm, that's not what I expected, but I liked it. I understand why the author did what they did and why it mattered to the overall story."

I always feel a bit frustrated when I wait a year (and sometimes two) for a conclusion to a series. But I always say that I would rather the author take their time and write a really awesome end. This particular series that sparked my outrage was one where I LOVED the first book. I finished it and wanted to read it again. I recommended it to everyone. The second book was much like they all are for me... I didn't love it but it was a means to an end. Then I waited almost TWO YEARS for what I expected to be a mind-blowing final book. I got what I wished for. Only it was mind-blowingly AWFUL. And now here I sit, stewing and totally mortified that I urged everyone and their dog to get invested in the series in the first place.

So please forgive me.

AND AUTHORS:
GET YOUR FREAKING ACTS TOGETHER. 
IF YOU CAN'T DELIVER A STELLAR ENDING WHEN YOU'VE WRITTEN A STELLAR BEGINNING, 
STOP AT ONE BOOK!

The end. 

And if you are wondering, NO, I don't feel better now. I'm still so disappointed it makes me sick. 

Happy Reading!  

Just One Day by Gayle Forman

Release Date: January 8, 2013

A breathtaking journey toward self-discovery and true love, from the author of If I Stay

When sheltered American good girl Allyson "LuLu" Healey first meets laid-back Dutch actor Willem De Ruiter at an underground performance of Twelfth Night in England, there’s an undeniable spark. After just one day together, that spark bursts into a flame, or so it seems to Allyson, until the following morning, when she wakes up after a whirlwind day in Paris to discover that Willem has left. Over the next year, Allyson embarks on a journey to come to terms with the narrow confines of her life, and through Shakespeare, travel, and a quest for her almost-true-love, to break free of those confines.Just One Day is the first in a sweepingly romantic duet of novels. Willem’s story—Just One Year—is coming soon!

The awesome thing about playing catch up on my book reviews is that I get to pick and choose what I want to review. And it just so happens that I'll be reviewing all my favorite books that I read this year instead of having crap books sprinkled in. Don't worry, those will come later I'm sure. 

A few years ago I read a little book called If I Stay (review HERE) by an author I'd never heard of named Gayle Forman. It honestly changed my life. It was the most breathtakingly, heart wrenching novel I've ever read. It was real and it was tragic. It was absolutely stunning. Ever since that life-changing moment, I have made it a point to keep my eye out for Gayle Forman's work. So I was absolutely thrilled when I saw that she had released a new book. 

Just One Day was just as beautiful as Ms. Forman's previous novels. It was different, and it definitely wasn't as heartbreaking as her other work, but I loved it just the same. There is just something about the words and the way these stories are told that draws me in and changes how I see the world. I think I would be hard pressed to find someone who can weave such a thoroughly captivating story as Gayle Forman.

I loved that this book was centered on self-discovery and figuring out who you are. I loved "Lulu" and Willem. I loved having this tale of love and loss revolve around "the city of love". And most of all I loved the woman the Allyson grew into because of her experiences in Paris with Willem. In fact, I loved it all so much that I'm currently in the middle of the companion book, Just One Year. So read this!! That way, when I post about the next one, there won't be any spoiler alerts.

Happy Reading!

Pivot Point by Kasie West

Release Date: February 12, 2013

Knowing the outcome doesn’t always make a choice easier . . .

Addison Coleman’s life is one big “What if?” As a Searcher, whenever Addie is faced with a choice, she can look into the future and see both outcomes. It’s the ultimate insurance plan against disaster. Or so she thought. When Addie’s parents ambush her with the news of their divorce, she has to pick who she wants to live with—her father, who is leaving the paranormal compound to live among the “Norms,” or her mother, who is staying in the life Addie has always known. Addie loves her life just as it is, so her answer should be easy. One Search six weeks into the future proves it’s not.

In one potential future, Addie is adjusting to life outside the Compound as the new girl in a Norm high school where she meets Trevor, a cute, sensitive artist who understands her. In the other path, Addie is being pursued by the hottest guy in school—but she never wanted to be a quarterback’s girlfriend. When Addie’s father is asked to consult on a murder in the Compound, she’s unwittingly drawn into a dangerous game that threatens everything she holds dear. With love and loss in both lives, it all comes down to which reality she’s willing to live through . . . and who she can’t live without.

 

Just reading the book blurb gives me chills. This is one of the very best books I've read all year.

Once upon a time,  about 15 years ago, there was a movie called Sliding Doors. It was about a woman who's life was split into two different outcomes based on whether or not she makes the subway on time. In the reality that she makes the subway, she gets home from work early enough to find that her boyfriend (fiancé?) is having an affair. She leaves him and the course of her life is forever changed. In the reality that she misses the subway, she gets home much, much later and is none the wiser. Anyway, there was a time when this was my very favorite movie. I think some of the reason I loved this book, Pivot Point, so much was because it appealed to the same part of me that is intrigued with the idea that small moments or decisions can change the course of our entire lives. I think the other part of the reason I loved it was because it was just a really fantastically written story.

There wasn't a single character in this book that I didn't like. (Which is uncommon for me!) I was drawn into their lives and their stories from the very first page. The ups and downs, twists and turns, intrigue, romance, and suspense of watching two different fates pan out was exhilarating. I loved everything about this book--even the very end when I had extremely mixed feelings, wanting things to tie up nicely in a bow. But really, when you have the ability to choose your future, can things NOT be messy?

You absolutely have to read this book. Scratch that. You absolutely have to BUY THIS BOOK. I'm not kidding when I say it's one of my favorites of the year. Maybe ever, actually. Yes, it was that good. Now what are you doing still reading this post???? GO GET THIS BOOK AND READ IT. NOW!

Happy Reading!



Blackmoore: A Proper Romance by Julianne Donaldson

Release Date: September 9, 2013

Kate Worthington knows her heart and she knows she will never marry. Her plan is to travel to India instead—if only to find peace for her restless spirit and to escape the family she abhors. But Kate’s meddlesome mother has other plans. She makes a bargain with Kate: India, yes, but only after Kate has secured—and rejected—three marriage proposals.

Kate journeys to the stately manor of Blackmoore determined to fulfill her end of the bargain and enlists the help of her dearest childhood friend, Henry Delafield. But when it comes to matters of love, bargains are meaningless and plans are changeable. There on the wild lands of Blackmoore, Kate must face the truth that has kept her heart captive. Will the proposal she is determined to reject actually be the one thing that will set her heart free?

Set in Northern England in 1820, Blackmoore is a Regency romance that tells the story of a young woman struggling to learn how to follow her heart. It is Wuthering Heights meets Little Women with a delicious must-read twist.

 

Swoon.

 

I loved this book. Although it took me a little longer to get invested in this story than Ms. Donaldson's first book Edenbrooke (click HERE to read my review of it). But once I did, I was completely and utterly in love.

 

Swoon.

Yes, again.

 

I think the problem I had with this book to start was Kate. I didn't relate to her. It took time for me to connect with her character and learn to love her. What made all the difference for me was her interactions with Henry. Their friendship. The fact that he would do anything for her and truly cared about her--it made me care about her too.

 

Oh Henry. (Sigh.) 

 

[Funny, and SO far off the subject, but I say that phrase with a different kind of sigh about 18 times a day since my middle child is named Henry. Haha]

 

Back on track, I really loved Henry's character. It's interesting to me that I couldn't connect with Kate, but I connected with Henry immediately. I felt for him. Usually that happens the other way around for me. :)

 

I loved this story. It had everything I love in a romance and more. There were also twists in the story that I didn't expect which made it that much more awesome in my eyes. This is not only a MUST READ, it's also a definite MUST BUY. If you love romance, but want something without the heaving bosoms and rippling pectorals, with plenty of actual falling in love (minus the falling in bed), Julianne Donaldson delivers. She is fast becoming my absolute favorite romance writer. Read this!

 

Happy Reading!

Did You Know?

Did you know that the last post I did on here was my 300th post?? It's kind of crazy to me that I have reviewed even close to that many books these past few years.

Which got me thinking....

There's no way I can give this up.

I have been thinking about it for a few months now, trying to decide if I wanted to keep reviewing books. The past few months, I have had the awesome opportunity to intern for a literary agency reading, editing, and recommending (or not recommending....) YA manuscripts. I have loved it so far. And it's made me really, really miss blogging.

The last time you heard from me I was about 4 months pregnant with my third child, and tomorrow that little one will be 6 months old.

So I made an executive decision. It's time to quit dragging my feet. It's time to start blogging again! I'll be back to my Tuesdays and Thursdays schedule starting this coming Tuesday, October 15th. I have read so many great books since I last blogged. I'm excited to share them with you! (Although they won't be in any particular order--definitely not the order I read them in!) Enjoy!

Spillin' the Beans...

So, since I have been so sporadic in my posting, I thought you should all know why....

I am expecting my THIRD child! I am due in April and we are very excited. But with this happy news comes a bit of heartbreaking (for me anyways...) news.

This pregnancy I have been experiencing blinding headaches--literally. I see spots, get dizzy, and my vision blacks out momentarily on occasion. Luckily, I work for a wonderful chiropractor (my dad <3 a="a" absolutely="absolutely" adjustments="adjustments" almost="almost" am="am" and="and" as="as" be="be" been="been" care="care" come="come" d="d" daily="daily" decision.="decision." good="good" has="has" have="have" having="having" headaches.="headaches." help="help" i="i" is="is" it="it" me.="me." miserable.="miserable." my="my" nbsp="nbsp" of="of" p="p" regularly="regularly" sad="sad" still="still" taking="taking" that="that" they="they" think="think" to="to" very="very" while="while" without="without">
Since I started having these headaches, it has become increasingly difficult to read books. Often times staring at pages or my Kindle screen brings them on or makes them worse. Because of this, I have decided to discontinue blogging for the time being. While this totally sucks for me, I have to be realistic. How can I review books on here if I can't READ books? I know I have to get real about this, but it's been very emotional for me to come to terms with losing my very favorite hobby and pastime (even if it is only temporarily). Even as I write this I'm getting teary.Yes, it could be because I am pregnant and hormonal, but I suspect that it's simply because I will miss all of this more than I can coherently put into sentences.

For all of my awesome readers that I love and appreciate SO much, please don't completely write me off. If I read a book that I absolutely have to talk about (whether it was amazingly GOOD or amazingly BAD), I will try to review it on here. And I'm hoping that by next May, I'll be back for good. Until then....

Happy Reading! 

A Beautiful Dark by Jocelyn Davies

On the night of Skye's seventeenth birthday, she meets two enigmatic strangers. Complete opposites--like fire and ice--Asher is dark and wild, while Devin is fair and aloof. Their sudden appearance sends Skye's life into a tailspin. She has no idea what they want, or why they seem to follow her every move--only that their presence coincides with a flurry of strange events. Soon she begins to doubt not just the identity of the two boys, but also the truth about her own past.

In the dead of a bitingly cold Colorado winter, Skye finds herself coming to terms with the impossible secret that threatens to shatter her world. Torn between Asher, who she can't help falling for, and Devin, who she can't stay away from, the consequences of Skye's choice will reach further than the three of them could ever imagine.

I can't believe I actually made it through this entire book. It's not because it's poorly written--it actually could have been a decent story because it was written quite well. The problem I ran into was this: I was talking to my friend about this book the other night and when she asked me what I thought I said, "You know, I don't know. I'm 90% of the way through and nothing has really happened." The last 10% wasn't much better. I felt like the ending, while a bit shocking, was a last-ditch effort to draw readers in enough to get them to read the sequel. Don't expect me to be one of them.

I think the only reason I kept reading was the fact that I kept unintentionally comparing Devin to Stefan from The Vampire Diaries and Asher to Damon (SO HOT!!). Only in this version (if Skye was Elena--which she's CLEARLY not),  Damon DOES get the girl. It's about dang time.

While my Vampire Diaries scenario isn't even close to this book (it falls far short)-- I must have had my TV show stuck on my brain!-- it's not enough to ever get me to recommend this book. It was all sorts of bizarre and never really got to the point of all the strange happenings.

All in all, I wouldn't recommend it, but there's nothing "bad" in it. If you want to give it a go, have fun! :)

Happy Reading!

The Crimson Crown by Cinda Williams Chima

SPOILER ALERT!!!

This is the FOURTH and final book in the Seven Realms series. Click each title to read my reviews of The Demon King, The Exiled Queen, and The Gray Wolf Throne.

 

A thousand years ago, two young lovers were betrayed—Alger Waterlow to his death, and Hanalea, Queen of the Fells, to a life without love.

Now, once again, the Queendom of the Fells seems likely to shatter apart. For young queen Raisa ana’Marianna, maintaining peace even within her own castle walls is nearly impossible; tension between wizards and Clan has reached a fevered pitch. With surrounding kingdoms seeking to prey on the Fells’ inner turmoil, Raisa’s best hope is to unite her people against a common enemy. But that enemy might be the person with whom she's falling in love.

Through a complicated web of lies and unholy alliances, former streetlord Han Alister has become a member of the Wizard Council of the Fells. Navigating the cut-throat world of blue blood politics has never been more dangerous, and Han seems to inspire hostility among Clan and wizards alike. His only ally is the queen, and despite the perils involved, Han finds it impossible to ignore his feelings for Raisa. Before long, Han finds himself in possession of a secret believed to be lost to history, a discovery powerful enough to unite the people of the Fells. But will the secret die with him before he can use it?

A simple, devastating truth concealed by a thousand-year-old lie at last comes to light in this stunning conclusion to the Seven Realms series.

 

I can't believe it's actually over.

 

It's heartbreaking, really. 

 

I feel like I've devoted so much time to this series-- I even preordered this, the final book, back in April and waited (and waited and waited....) until October 23rd for it to be released. Pathetic, I know.

 

I don't think I can say it enough-- I absolutely love this series. And I know it's super lame but I really am heartbroken that it's over. I thought this was such a wondrefully written conclusion, even though at times it felt a little less....climactic.... than I was expecting. After my review of The Demon King, I've totally eaten my words. Ever since then I've been trying to make up for it.

 

I was impressed with how much Raisa had grown between the last book and now. She was more gutsy and fierce and brave now as Queen of the Fells than she ever was as princess. She's someone I'd want to hang out with... but never get on her bad side! The same goes for Han. He has always been a little rough around the edges (in an endearing way) but in this book, I really felt like he came into his own and embraced his bloodline. Again, he's someone I'd want to get to know, but not if I was on his hit list.

 

There were so many secrets that were brought to light in this conclusion that at times I felt like my head was spinning. Throughout the entire story, it was difficult to tell who was actually fighting for good and who was secretly wreaking havoc and leaving destruction in their path. Many times, someone good was causing trouble and someone bad was trying to redeem himself or herself--even if it was only momentarily.

 

This book was full of betrayal and heartache and adventure and love. Everything I expected from Cinda Williams Chima and more. If you haven't read this series yet, I very highly recommend it. This is honestly my favorite series I've ever read. Don't get stuck in the first book and give up. It is slow at first but by the end of the book, you'll be dying to continue the story in the next 3 books. I promise!

 

Happy Reading!

Existence by Abbi Glines

What happens when you're stalked by Death? You fall in love with him, of course.

Pagan Moore doesn't cheat Death, but instead, falls in love with him.

Seventeen year old Pagan Moore has seen souls her entire life. Once she realized the strangers she often saw walking through walls were not visible to anyone else, she started ignoring them. If she didn't let them know she could see them, then they left her alone. Until she stepped out of her car the first day of school and saw an incredibly sexy guy lounging on a picnic table, watching her with an amused smirk on his face. Problem is, she knows he's dead.

Not only does he not go away when she ignores him, but he does something none of the others have ever done. He speaks. Pagan is fascinated by the soul. What she doesn't realize is that her appointed time to die is drawing near and the wickedly beautiful soul she is falling in love with is not a soul at all.

He is Death and he's about to break all the rules.

This was a book that I quite liked...if it weren't for the characters' horrifically stupid names. Actually, if we're to a point in our friendship that we're sharing secrets, I even went so far as to change their names in my head because it was so distracting. C'mon. Pagan? Leif? And the winner of the worst name of a hot main man EVER? Dank. Seriously. Dank. You know that that means? Soggy. Musty. Disagreeably damp. Really? Does that make you swoon?? It kind of makes me want to gag. I hope this author doesn't have children, or I pity them for the bullying they'll undoubtedly receive because of "unique" (cough, cough--TERRIBLE!) names picked in poor judgement.

As for the actual story, I liked it. Enough so that I plan on purchasing the sequel (in which the made up names in my head will live on...). It wasn't a very long book--only about 200 pages, which was nice because it was easy to get into the fast-paced story and there wasn't much fluffy filler. I had a hard time choosing which stud muffin I was rooting for out of the two guys Pagan is torn between- up until the very last page when a bomb is dropped and you're left thinking, What in the holy crap just happened?? I have to read the next one, like, right now!!! WHAT IS GOING ON?????????????????

Read it, and you'll experience this too. Some people may not love when books end like that, and sometimes even I am not so cracked up about it. But in this case, it worked. And a plus for all you Kindle-readers-- this book is available on Amazon right now for only $4.99! (And the final two in the series are only $3.99!)

Happy Reading!

For Darkness Shows the Stars by Diana Peterfreund

It's been several generations since a genetic experiment gone wrong caused the Reduction, decimating humanity and giving rise to a Luddite nobility who outlawed most technology.

Elliot North has always known her place in this world. Four years ago Elliot refused to run away with her childhood sweetheart, the servant Kai, choosing duty to her family's estate over love. Since then the world has changed: a new class of Post-Reductionists is jumpstarting the wheel of progress, and Elliot's estate is foundering, forcing her to rent land to the mysterious Cloud Fleet, a group of shipbuilders that includes renowned explorer Captain Malakai Wentforth--an almost unrecognizable Kai. And while Elliot wonders if this could be their second chance, Kai seems determined to show Elliot exactly what she gave up when she let him go.

But Elliot soon discovers her old friend carries a secret--one that could change their society . . . or bring it to its knees. And again, she's faced with a choice: cling to what she's been raised to believe, or cast her lot with the only boy she's ever loved, even if she's lost him forever.

Inspired by Jane Austen's Persuasion, "For Darkness Shows the Stars" is a breathtaking romance about opening your mind to the future and your heart to the one person you know can break it.

I have always been a diehard Jane Austen fan. Honestly, I remember watching Sense and Sensibility and Pride and Prejudice and Emma with my mom when I was little. I loved them! Then as I got older and discovered her novels (and was old enough to understand them) I fell in love all over again. But I have to say, out of all of Jane Austen's books, Persuasion is probably my least favorite. However, when I read about this book-- a dystopian take on Austen, I was intrigued.

While the beginning of this book is just as slow as the original, I still quite enjoyed it. I really liked that there were past letters between Elliot and Kai that were woven into the story between chapters.  The letters gave more insight into how Elliot and Kai got to the strained and hateful point in their relationship that they were when they were introduced in the book. I thought it was helpful in understanding the book overall. And since it is a dystopian, be prepared for some strange supernatural elements. Just an FYI.

Granted, I felt like there were some holes in the storyline, but overall I did like this book and I would recommend it. If you are a Jane Austen fan, but sometimes want an updated, fresh take on her stories, this may just be the book for you.

Happy Reading!

Romeo Redeemed by Stacey Jay

SPOILER ALERT!

This is the SECOND book in a series.

Read the super awesome Juliet Immortal before you read this. You can also read my review of Juliet Immortal by clicking HERE.

Release Date: October 9, 2012

Seductive companion to the popular Juliet Immortal, in which former lovers—Romeo and Juliet—meet, not as true lovers, but truly as enemies.

Cursed to live out eternity in his rotted corpse, Romeo, known for his ruthless, cutthroat ways, is given the chance to redeem himself by traveling back in time to save the life of Ariel Dragland. Unbeknownst to her, Ariel is important to both the evil Mercenaries and the love-promoting Ambassadors and holds the fate of the world in her hands. Romeo must win her heart and make her believe in love, turning her away from her darker potential before his work is discovered by the Mercenaries. While his seduction begins as yet another lie, it soon becomes his only truth. Romeo vows to protect Ariel from harm, and do whatever it takes to win her heart and soul. But when Ariel is led to believe his love is a deception, she becomes vulnerable to Mercenary manipulation, and her own inner darkness may ultimately rip them apart.  

Why, oh why do I have such a difficult time trudging through sequels? What is the matter with me? I think I'm broken. :(

I LOVED the first book in this series, Juliet Immortal. I kept having recommendations for it pop up on Amazon, and since me and good ol' Will Shakespeare don't exactly get along, I kept passing over it. Finally I checked it out from the library....and practically devoured it. Really. I was not my best self-- sweatpants, frizzy hair, glasses, and all... Good thing it was only for one day! Anyway, after being shocked and amazed at my deep love for a Romeo and Juliet that are constantly beating the crap out of each other and either trying to save (Juliet) or destroy (Romeo) true love, I was so anxious to read the next book in the series (this).

So, let's get to the big question. Did I like this book as much as the first? Of course not! But I did like it. There were some strange transitions between chapters (they switch back and forth between Romeo and Ariel). There were a few when I had to go back and check to make sure I hadn't missed anything and then I had to read a few pages into the chapter before anything made sense. Other than that, I really liked most of the story--especially the ending. I felt like the author did a great job of tying the two books together and giving both Romeo and Juliet what they deserved in the epilogue (whether good OR bad...). While it didn't quite live up the the amazingness of Juliet Immortal, I was still satisfied with this book as a whole and the way everything ended. 

I hope you get a chance to read both of these books. I thought it was such a fun, different, interesting take on an old classic that I have never fallen in love with...until now. READ THESE!!

Happy Reading!

*I received this egalley from the publisher for the purpose of review.

The Assassin's Curse by Cassandra Rose Clarke

Release Date: October 2, 2012

Ananna of the Tanarau abandons ship when her parents try to marry her off to an allying pirate clan: she wants to captain her own boat, not serve as second-in-command to her handsome yet clueless fiance. But her escape has dire consequences when she learns the scorned clan has sent an assassin after her.

And when the assassin, Naji, finally catches up with her, things get even worse. Ananna inadvertently triggers a nasty curse — with a life-altering result. Now Ananna and Naji are forced to become uneasy allies as they work together to break the curse and return their lives back to normal. Or at least as normal as the lives of a pirate and an assassin can be.

When I first read the description for this book, I was thinking Pirates?? Magic? Assassins?? Count me in! And then I started reading...

It's not that this book was bad. It was just SLOW. And have I mentioned how sick-to-death I am of endings that just, well, end? Yes, I loved The Selection by Kiera Cass which ended very abruptly, then I read The Vicious Deep which I also liked, but the ending-in-the-middle-of-the-story made me roll my eyes and fight frustration. So by the time I got to this book, I had little or no patience for stupid endings where nothing gets resolved. At all. 

Other than that, I thought the storyline was pretty decent. I wish there were more pirate-y moments (No one even says Argh! Ha.) and more I'll-kill-you-before-you-even-have-a-chance-to-blink moments. Although the altercation between Naji and a pirate named Atano was pretty awesome. It was kind of what I expected most of the story to be though. Sadly, that may have been the most action in the book. And I'm talking about any kind of action. (Wink, wink.) No really though, if you wanted romance, this is NOT the book for you. Come to think of it, if you wanted violence, thievery, spells, and all manner of bad behavior, you most definitely picked the wrong book.

I know I'm pretty much talking you out of reading this book, but I have to say, even with the obnoxious drop-off ending and lack of everything I expected this book to be, I am intrigued enough to try out book two in this series whenever it is released. (Hello, this just came out last week. It'll be a while.) 

Happy Reading!

*I received this egalley from the publisher for the purpose of review. 

My Super Sweet Sixteenth Century by Rachel Harris

Release Date: September 11, 2012

On the precipice of her sixteenth birthday, the last thing lone wolf Cat Crawford wants is an extravagant gala thrown by her bubbly stepmother-to-be and well-meaning father. So even though Cat knows the family’s trip to Florence, Italy, is a peace offering, she embraces the magical city and all it offers. But when her curiosity leads her to an unusual gypsy tent, she exits . . . right into Renaissance Firenze.

Thrust into the sixteenth century armed with only a backpack full of contraband future items, Cat joins up with her ancestors, the sweet Alessandra and protective Cipriano, and soon falls for the gorgeous aspiring artist Lorenzo. But when the much-older Niccolo starts sniffing around, Cat realizes that an unwanted birthday party is nothing compared to an unwanted suitor full of creeptastic amore.

Can she find her way back to modern times before her Italian adventure turns into an Italian forever?

I absolutely loved this book. Despite the slow get-go, I couldn't (and didn't want to!) put this down. Cat was someone I could easily relate to, which made her all the more lovable. I enjoyed her interatctions with her family-- both past and present, although the book definitely spends more time with her 16th century ancestors. I instantly liked Alessandra and Cipriano, and even Lorenzo, who Cat tries desperately (and in vain) to avoid. 

As the book progresses, Cat learns to lower the barriers around her heart and let not only her family in, but also Lorenzo. Oh, Lorenzo. He was the type of character that had me wishing I'd stumble across a gypsy tent and be transported straight into the arms of a sexy 16th century Italian aspiring artist. (Swoon.)

Anyway, I loved this book. Loved, loved. It is most definitely worth buying. You'll love the romance, and you'll be dying for more when you get to the end. Blast it all that we have to wait until almost next fall to get another dose of this fun, lighthearted, lovable story.

Happy Reading!

*I received this egalley from the publisher for the purpose of review.

   

The Vicious Deep by Zoraida Córdova

For Tristan Hart, everything changes with one crashing wave.
 

He was gone for three days. Sucked out to sea in a tidal wave and spit back ashore at Coney Island with no memory of what happened. Now his dreams are haunted by a terrifying silver mermaid with razor-sharp teeth.
 

His best friend Layla is convinced something is wrong. But how can he explain he can sense emotion like never before? How can he explain he's heir to a kingdom he never knew existed? That he's suddenly a pawn in a battle as ancient as the gods.
 

Something happened to him in those three days. He was claimed by the sea...and now it wants him back.

 I have been wanting to read this book for months and I finally got to it. The Kindle version is only $6.39 on Amazon right now! I couldn't pass that deal up. So, I bought it, put down the book I had been trudging through, and dove right in. No pun intended. But it IS kind of funny. You know, "vicious deep" and all....

Anyway, as you faithful followers know, I have been struggling lately with reading. Me and books? We are NOT friends at the moment. Well, at least we WEREN'T... until I read this. I couldn't put it down (once I got past the 'What the heck is going on?!?' beginning). While the character development dragged and I didn't really love any of the characters, they grew on me throughout the book. And the story was interesting enough to have me wanting to read the next one- The Savage Blue due out next year. 

Mermaids and sirens and the like have been trending in the YA world it seems like. This year especially with books like Wrecked and Of Poseidon and Lost Voices (although this was released last year). I've been so excited to read these! Are there any books with this particular theme that you've been really looking forward to?

Well, I know that I've been a bit sporadic with my posts, but I finally feel like I am getting back into the swing of things. I promise if you don't see another post this week, I'll be back next week for sure.

Happy Reading!

Dreamless by Josephine Angelini

SPOILER ALERT!!!

THIS IS THE SECOND BOOK IN A SERIES. THE FIRST BOOK IS STARCROSSED, AND YOU CAN READ MY REVIEW OF IT HERE.

PROCEED AT YOUR OWN RISK. :)

Can true love be forgotten?

As the only scion who can descend into the Underworld, Helen Hamilton has been given a nearly impossible task. By night she wanders through Hades, trying to stop the endless cycle of revenge that has cursed her family. By day she struggles to overcome the fatigue that is rapidly eroding her sanity. Without Lucas by her side, Helen is not sure she has the strength to go on.

Just as Helen is pushed to her breaking point, a mysterious new Scion comes to her rescue. Funny and brave, Orion shields her from the dangers of the Underworld. But time is running out--a ruthless foe plots against them, and the Furies' cry for blood is growing louder.

As the ancient Greek world collides with the mortal one, Helen's sheltered life on Nantucket descends into chaos. But the hardest task of all will be forgetting Lucas Delos.

Josephine Angelini's compelling saga becomes ever more intricate and spellbinding as an unforgettable love triangle emerges and the eternal cycle of revenge intensifies. Eagerly awaited, this sequel to the internationally bestselling "Starcrossed" delivers a gritty, action-packed love story that exceeds all expectations.

If you read my review of Starcrossed, you were probably thinking, Sheesh--could she gush more?? I seriously loved it. Like loved, loved. Which is why I am so flummoxed about this book, the second in the series. I think I must need to skim the end of book one again because, from what I remember-which is a lot, this book doesn't tie into the first one at all! Storyline-wise I felt like this was a whole different series with the same characters. Of course I'm still going to continue the series, but I'm a little more cautious about moving forward. Bummer.

I really love the characters in this series. One of the things I enjoyed so much about the first book was the introduction of all the different characters-- I loved how hardcore Helen was. Hello!?!? She tried to kill Lucas in the middle of the hallway at school! While I still liked most of the characters as they progressed and grew in this book, I was most disappointed in Helen. She was pitifully likable at best and a wussy damsel in distress at her worst. What happened to the butt-kickin', fierce, flippin' awesome girl from the first book? I miss her. :(

Overall, I did like this book. I liked the story. And I love the series. I just wish the stories flowed together well and Helen was not so darn helpless. Here's to hoping the third book explains A LOT and ties the story in a nice little bow. 

Happy Reading!

 

M.I.A.

Yeah, yeah. I know. I just haven't been feeling it. It took me THREE WEEKS to read the book I'm reviewing this Thursday. And the book I'm working on now I've already invested a week and a half on and I'm only 200 pages in. It's an almost SIX HUNDRED PAGE BOOK.

I struggle.

My brain is tired.

Give me a break.

:)

(And please(!!) don't give up on me while I'm in my funk. Thanks.)

Beautiful Disaster by Jamie McGuire

Release Date: August 14, 2012

The new Abby Abernathy is a good girl. She doesn’t drink or swear, and she has the appropriate number of cardigans in her wardrobe. Abby believes she has enough distance from the darkness of her past, but when she arrives at college with her best friend, her path to a new beginning is quickly challenged by Eastern University's Walking One-Night Stand.

Travis Maddox, lean, cut, and covered in tattoos, is exactly what Abby needs—and wants—to avoid. He spends his nights winning money in a floating fight ring, and his days as the ultimate college campus charmer. Intrigued by Abby’s resistance to his appeal, Travis tricks her into his daily life with a simple bet. If he loses, he must remain abstinent for a month. If Abby loses, she must live in Travis’s apartment for the same amount of time. Either way, Travis has no idea that he has met his match.

You know how every once in a while I say, "This is the absolute WORST book I've ever read!!!"? Well, all those other times I was lying. Because this was THE ABSOLUTE WORST BOOK I'VE EVER READ. Not only did it have a ridiculously excessive amount of obscene and inappropriate language, but it also was the BEST example of the WORLD'S MOST UNHEALTHY, CONTROLLING, ABUSIVELY DEPENDENT relationship. 

As I looked at the Goodreads reviews for this book, I was shocked and appalled at the number of positive reviews for this book. It leads me to ask, What is wrong with you people?!?! If I was dating someone that pulled half the crap that Travis (the male MC) does, I'd dump him so fast his head would spin (and then fear for my life awaiting his retaliation. Seriously. He was that crazy). What absolutely killed me were the number of times Abby (the female MC) talked about "red flags" in their relationship and how she justified each and every one of them even when she knew Travis was a psychopath. 

I'll be honest, I only read 60-ish percent of this book (I read it on my Kindle, so this is fact. :D), and I couldn't make myself stomach the rest. I really did try, but I was too offended to keep reading. I would never, ever, ever in a million years, not for all the money in the world, recommend this book. Ever.

Happy Reading!

*I received this egalley from the publisher for the purpose of review.

Scarlet by A. C. Gaughen

Many readers know the tale of Robin Hood, but they will be swept away by this new version full of action, secrets, and romance.

Posing as one of Robin Hood’s thieves to avoid the wrath of the evil Thief Taker Lord Gisbourne, Scarlet has kept her identity secret from all of Nottinghamshire. Only the Hood and his band know the truth: the agile thief posing as a whip of a boy is actually a fearless young woman with a secret past. Helping the people of Nottingham outwit the corrupt Sheriff of Nottingham could cost Scarlet her life as Gisbourne closes in.

It’s only her fierce loyalty to Robin—whose quick smiles and sharp temper have the rare power to unsettle her—that keeps Scarlet going and makes this fight worth dying for.

I don't know why I am such a sucker for these kinds of books. Even though this was a bit slow in a number of places, I really enjoyed it as a whole. And isn't this cover one of the most gorgeous covers you've ever seen? That's half the reason I wanted to read it so badly! Ha!

I've always been intrigued by Robin Hood. I think my infatuation with Robin Hood grew to the extreme a few years ago when Jonas Armstrong played him in the BBC series. Holy hotness. Every Robin Hood for the rest of my life will look like Jonas Armstrong, and yes, I am very much okay with that. 

I absolutely loved the idea of FINALLY (!) having a girl in Robin's merry band of thieves. I am a huge fan of girls who kick butt and take names. Scarlet was no different. I loved how fierce she was, but I didn't dig how disloyal she was. (Is that even a word? It is now!) It seemed like every time things got a little rough, she wanted to pack it up and call it quits. Not so cool. I did, however, love Robin and John and Much which more than made up for Scarlet's flakiness. 

Overall, I really liked this book. I think (but I'm not sure) if this is a planned series, but it definitely could be. And I will be anxiously awaiting a second one!

Happy Reading!