Book Cover Reveal: The Impostor

“Alaska? Who goes to Alaska?” Escaping an abusive ex boyfriend, Nicole, a struggling young single-mother, convinces her best friend to travel to a place she knows little about, in search of better life.
Nicole is scared of getting hurt again, but Dylan’s chiseled body and chocolate brown eyes captivate her. And soon she finds herself in the arms of the sexy lead singer.
In Alaska, she discovers the power of friendship
and true love and begins to let down her guard.
But is her security a facade?
Soon Nicole’s innocent beauty taunts a sinister man,
and she is caught in a web of deception and danger.
She realizes someone she trusts has been stalking her.
Petrified, she wonders, how can she escape? Miles of wilderness surround her.
She hears something. Someone is there.
Should she cry for help or stay silent?
Will she be saved or will she be hunted?

The Impostor by Tiffany Carmouche

Hey everyone I was asked by the author if I would do a post with her new book cover and a synopsis.

I was told by Tiffany that this was one of those 'New Adult' genre that seems to be going around recently.

For me personally I feel like this cover looks more like the adult covers which I like but I do feel like they are a bit cheesy which is why I have gone on to read more of the YA novels as I love there covers more.

I may not be that keen on the cover but I do like the sound of the book and I want to try my first 'New Adult' novel to see what it is all about. I'm really happy that I have been sent an e-arc copy to review which should be coming soon so look out for that.

Book Cover Talk: The Diviners

This week's book cover that I am talking about is...

The Diviners by Libba Bray

It was actually the US version of this book that I first saw and thought I might like it but this one is the UK version which I prefer (if you want to to see the other versions click the picture which will take you to Goodreads.). It actually wasn't the cover that made me want this book it was the author's name which made me want to try another series by her.

To be honest with you I never really knew what this book was about until after I receive it which then I read the synopsis on the back and thankfully it sounds like something I would like.

The cover seems to tie in with the actual story but I won't know for certain until I read it. The book is set in the 20's which I think the cover looks like that is set in that particular time period.

I don't usually like eye's not just on a cover eye's just freak me out but I don't really mind the eye on this cover as I think it makes it look intriguing as I want to know what the eye reference in the book. Also the eye is on the spine which I think looks fun and (no pun intended) eye catching.

I love that this is a more simplistic cover and with the use of the patterns in the background for me makes the cover look more effective than it would have done if the patterns wasn't there. There is only one colour that is dominant which I like as too many colours would have spoilt the overall effect.

Even though the person in the cover isn't as big as most covers use it doesn't matter as there seems to be a light shining on her making me feel like she is of importance.

The title is also simple but because of some of the highlights throughout the letters makes it look bold. Also it's one of the biggest things that's on this cover making me notice it.

I can't wait to read this book which I am hoping to be reading within the next few weeks, here's hoping that the story lives up to the cover.

Teaser Tuesday #36

Teaser Tuesdays is a weekly bookish meme, hosted by MizB of Should Be Reading. Anyone can play along! To find out more about the books click on the picture which will take you to Goodreads.




My teasers:

Heaven by Alexandra Adornetto

We sat together in the cabin and watched the light begin to fade through the crack under the door. On the outside, we might have looked still and tranquil, but inside we were readying ourselves to face another battle, another struggle to preserve what was ours.
This seemed to be the story of our lives. Would fate ever look on us favourably, even for just one day? - Page 29

I am enjoying this book but it was hard to find a teaser that didn't have a spoiler I think I'm safe with this one.

          Love Lines by Diana Nixon

Coming back to reality, I felt some unknown attraction, which made me look towards the door. Even without seeing who was behind it, I could feel her. - Page 45

I am enjoying this book as well.

It's Monday What Are You Reading? #44

It's Monday What Are You Reading is a weekly meme hosted by Book Journey in which we plan our reading week!
(Click on images to send you to Goodreads)

Finished Reading

(Click on title for review)

Glitch by Heather Anastasiu

Currently Reading

Love Lines by Diana Nixon

So far I think this is a good book as it's very addicting. I am very much looking forward to see where the rest of the book leads to.

Heaven by Alexandra Adornetto

Not read much of this just  yet but I am liking it so far even if I can't remember what happened in the previous books!

Reading Next

Someone Else's Fairytale by E. M. Tippetts

I have had this on my shelf for awhile now so I thought I best get it read.

So that's what I'm planning on reading this week, what's everyone else reading?

Cover Reveal: Naturals (The Lost Souls #1)

Naturals (The Lost Souls #1) by Tiffany Truitt Cover Reveal

I am delighted to say that Entangled Publishing has asked me to be a part of the cover reveal to the sequal  of Tiffany Truitt's Chosen Ones (here's my review), Naturals which I am looking forward to reading. We do have a bit of a wait though as it's not due out until 2013!

About Tiffany:  Tiffany Truitt was born in Peoria, Illinois. A self-proclaimed Navy brat, Tiffany spent most of her childhood living in Virginia, but don’t call her a Southerner. She also spent a few years living in Cuba. Since her time on the island of  one McDonald's and Banana Rats (don't ask) she has been obsessed with traveling. Tiffany recently added China to her list of travels (hello inspiration for a new book).

Besides traveling, Tiffany has always been an avid reader. The earliest books she remembers reading belong to The Little House on the Prairie Series. First book she read in one day? Little Woman(5th grade). First author she fell in love with? Jane Austen in middle school. Tiffany spent most of her high school and college career as a literary snob. She refused to read anything considered “low brow” or outside the “classics.”

Tiffany began teaching middle school in 2006. Her students introduced her to the wide, wonderful world of Young Adult literature. Today, Tiffany embraces popular Young Adult literature and uses it in her classroom. She currently teaches the following novels: The Outsiders, Speak, Night, Dystopian Literature Circles: The Hunger Games, The Giver, The Uglies, and Matched.

And now for the cover...

Tess is finally safe from the reach of the Council, now that she is living in the Middlelands with the rebel Isolationists. With James having returned to Templeton, she easily falls back into her friendship with Henry, though her newfound knowledge of Robert’s chosen one status still stings. Even surrounded by people, Tess has never felt more alone. So she’s thrilled when James returns to the settlement, demanding to see Tess — until she finds out that it’s because her sister, Louisa, has been recruited into Tess’s old position at Templeton, and that the dangerously sadistic chosen one George has taken an interest in her.

NATURALS is the second book in The Lost Souls trilogy, and follows the dystopian hit CHOSEN ONES.

I love this cover maybe even more than the first one! It's very much inkeeping with Chosen Ones as it's kept the same background which I love as it adds texture to the book which I love. I love that the hair being a bright red against her pale skin as it really does look effective. I usually like the eyes open if they have used a person as it can tell a lot about what that person is thinking but in this case I don't think it matters. I just love this cover and I can't wait to see what happens. I also can't wait to see what the next book is going to look like as this series has beautiful covers.

Tiffany's Website
Follow Tiffany on Twitter
Naturals on Goodreads
Pre-Order Naturals

Book Review: Glitch (Glitch #1)

Glitch (Glitch #1) by Heather Anastasiu

Format: Paperback (arc)
Publisher: St.Martin's Griffin
Published: 7th August 2012
Pages: 320
Main Characters: Zoe, Adrien, Max
Date Started: 20th August 2012
Date Finished: 26th August 2012
Rating Given: ***

Blurb from Goodreads:

In the Community, there is no more pain or war. Implanted computer chips have wiped humanity clean of destructive emotions, and thoughts are replaced by a feed from the Link network.

When Zoe starts to malfunction (or “glitch”), she suddenly begins having her own thoughts, feelings, and identity. Any anomalies must be immediately reported and repaired, but Zoe has a secret so dark it will mean certain deactivation if she is caught: her glitches have given her uncontrollable telekinetic powers.

As Zoe struggles to control her abilities and stay hidden, she meets other glitchers including Max, who can disguise his appearance, and Adrien, who has visions of the future. Both boys introduce Zoe to feelings that are entirely new. Together, this growing band of glitchers must find a way to free themselves from the controlling hands of the Community before they’re caught and deactivated, or worse.

In this action-packed debut, Glitch begins an exciting new young adult trilogy.

I have had my eye on this book for awhile now so imagine my delight when I was sent a copy for review from the lovely publishers over at St. Martin's Publishing (Thanks). Although I was excited to read this book I am in two minds about it.

The cover I used to love as I love the colours which makes it stand out but now I'm not too sure if I even like it anymore. I do like the way it has a futuristic feel to the cover as it ties in with the actual story.

This is my first book by Heather Anastasiu but I don't think it will be my last as I want to continue with this series to see how things unfold. I found it hard to understand what Anastasiu was writing about as it was set in the future so there was new words in which needed to be explained better. I don't feel she described everything in detail as I couldn't really imagine the place or even the characters which is a shame as I think it would have been more understandable if everything was described more clearly.

I found the first half very slow and very confusing but the second half of the book was loads better and I found it a really addicting read. Even though I got into the book I still found at times my mind wondering from the book. I did like that there was always something going on as it's what made me like this book. I never quite understood whether the people where robots as they seemed a bit robotic but then other times I thought they where humans so I was a bit lost with that but that could just be me. I did feel like the word Glitch was a bit overused which got very annoying.

Like the rest of the book I sometimes liked the characters and then other times I just didn't get them. Zoe did go through a lot of things during this book so I did feel like she grew as a character and I hope she is a more stronger character in the next book. Adrien seemed like a good character but I don't feel like we got to know him enough. Max I didn't like you could tell he was only after one thing. It was hard to understand how each of these characters was feeling as they are not used to the different emotions so they don't understand what it is they are feeling.

Overall I liked the book but I was too confused throughout most of the book. I will be continuing on with this series as I think they will get better.

Showcase Sunday #15

Showcase Sunday is a new weekly Meme that I am taking part of. This weekly meme is hosted by Vicky over at Book, Biscuits and Tea and for more info click on the SS image which will take you straight to the blog. Click on the titles of the books to take you to Goodreads.





Books mentioned in the video

Books Won
Hav3n by Tom Easton (Stepping Out the Page)
Review Books
The Diviners by Libba Bray (ATOM Publishers)
Books Brought
Illuminated by Erica Orloff
Onyx by Jennifer L. Armentrout

Book Review: Velvet

Velvet by Mary Hooper

Format: Paperback (arc)
Publisher: Bloomsbury
Published: 2nd August 2012
Pages: 336
Main Characters: Velvet
Date Started: 16th August 2012
Date Finished: 20th August 2012
Rating Given: ***

Blurb from Goodreads:

Velvet is a laundress in a Victorian steam laundry. With both her mother and father dead, she is an orphan and has to rely upon her own wits to make a living. The laundry's work is back-breaking and Velvet is desperate to create a better life for herself. Then Velvet is noticed by Madame Savoya, a famed medium, who asks Velvet to come to work for her. Velvet is dazzled at first by the young yet beautifully dressed and bejewelled Madame. But soon Velvet realises that Madame Savoya is not all that she says she is, and Velvet's very life is in danger ...A romantic and thrillingly exciting new novel from an acclaimed and much loved historical writer for teens.

I was sent a email about this book from the publishers over at Bloomsbury which I am very grateful of. I had another one of Mary Hooper book so I thought I would give this one a try which I am glad I did as it's something different to what I usually read and I actually liked it.

The cover in a picture it doesn't look anything special but when I received a copy I loved it. I loved the colours as they really stand out and I also loved the flowers around the edges as it gave the book a more elegant look. What I loved the most was the texture of the book as it actually felt like velvet.

I may already have a Mary Hooper book but this is the first one that I have read which I did find an enjoyable read. This is also my first YA historical book which I thought Hooper did a great job of making me actually feel like I was in this time period which not a lot of books can do very successfully. What I also love is the way in which Hooper backs up her story with facts about the time which is found at the back.

What I did find a bit annoying was that in the blurb it stated that this book was 'A romantic and thrilling exciting' but I didn't find it to be any of these. There was some romance but not enough and none of it was believable. There was parts that had me guessing but most of it I guessed what would happen before it did. I did like a different take on the paranormal but that's all I will say on that as it will give too much of the story away. Even though at times I felt bored I still enjoyed it in most parts.

With the character Velvet I found she was a bit gullible and very naive. There was times I just wanted to shake her so she can actually open her eyes to what was going on around her. I am very gullible myself but even I knew what everyone was up to Velvet however didn't. Charlie was a sweet enough character but I thought he should have been in it a lot more than what he was.

Overall an enjoyable read but I just didn't find it grabbed my attention for too long.

Book Review: Semi-Charmed Life

Semi-Charmed Life by Nora Zelevansky

Format: e-arc
Publisher: St. Martin's Griffin
Published: 3rd July 2012
Pages: 336
Main Characters: Beatrice, Veruca, Ben
Date Started: 7th August 2012
Date Finished: 19th August 2012
Rating Given: ***

Blurb from Goodreads:

In Nora Zelevansky’s hilarious debut, Semi-Charmed Life, an Upper West Side naïf, Beatrice Bernstein, gets swept up in the seemingly magical life of socialite Veruca Pfeffernoose, while ghost writing her blog. Veruca’s glitteringly opulent world soon seduces Beatrice away from her own insular, arty family with a promise of fancy parties, travel outside Manhattan (for once) and one desperately cute guy. But when her new glitzy lifestyle starts to take on dark undertones, Beatrice has to decide who she is—once and for all. With her own magical touch, Zelevansky deftly explores the world of rarified Manhattan in this sparkling modern fairy tale of first love, finding one’s voice and growing up.

 I was sent an email from the publishers to see if I wanted to review this book which sounded like something that I haven't tried before and it sounded good so I thought I would give it a try. I am glad I did as it was a likable book just not a great book.

This cover I love and to be honest it would have sold me the book if I actually had seen it before I started reading it. I love that it looks like the cover has been drawn which is fitting to the actual story as there is a lot of art influence throughout the book. I do think the title should have been more bolder as the rest of the cover over powers it.

This is a debut novel from Nora Zelevansky which I think she has done a good job as I did find it funny and I think she will only get better with time. I did get confused to some of the things she had written as at the beginning I thought that it was set in the past but then when I went further into the book I found that it was actually set in the present time.

I did find it a bit too shallow for my liking as I was expecting a bit more from this book. When I got the email telling me about this book they said if I liked Gossip Girl then I would love this and yes I love Gossip Girl and yes this book was similar I just didn't love it as much because the characters was annoying. I did get a bit lost at times as I just didn't get what was happening even when I finished the book I felt lost. Some of the time when I picked the book up to read a bit more I didn't like it but there was a lot of times when I would pick it up and think it was a good book. There wasn't any action in any shape of form it just lacked that sparkle that I love to see in a contemporary book.

Beatrice was a bit annoying in the way that she just dropped her close friends for 'friends' that she had just met I just didn't get why she would do that. I also found her very naive and just let everyone walk all over her. Towards the end she did grow on me and found she started to act more like her age which was 21 instead of someone a lot younger. Veruca I didn't like throughout the book as she seemed like she just uses everyone but then there is a huge twist at the end which made me re-think her character. Ben I liked he was funny and I loved the interaction between him and Beatrice.

Overall a likable read but there was times when it was good and then other times when I just didn't get on with it. It was a light read with nothing too heavy going on.

Teaser Tuesday #35

Teaser Tuesdays is a weekly bookish meme, hosted by MizB of Should Be Reading. Anyone can play along! To find out more about the books click on the picture which will take you to Goodreads.




My teaser:

Glitch by Heather Anastaiu

I swallowed hard, looking around me in the unusal silence, the Link absent from my mind. Everything was so much sharper without the Link fogging me-sights, sounds, smells. It was exhilarating and shocking and terrifying. I knew my emotions had groen too strong. They were dangerous to the community. They were dangerous to me. - Page 16

Started off really slow and a lot of it was saying the title everyother paragraph which was annoying. It seems to have settled down now and I am staring to get into it.

It's Monday What Are You Reading? #43

It's Monday What Are You Reading is a weekly meme hosted by Book Journey in which we plan our reading week!
(Click on images to send you to Goodreads)

Finished Reading

(Click on title for review)

Chain Reaction by Simone Elkeles

Semi-Charmed Life by Nora Zelevansky (No review yet)

Velvet by Mary Hooper (No review yet)

Currently Reading

Glitch by Heather Anastasiu

Only just started it today and have only read the first chapter but so far it's a bit slow and I'm not into it as of yet but hopefully that will change once I read some more.

Reading Next

Love Lines by Diana Nixon

Heaven by Alexandra Adornetto

So that's what I'm planning on reading this week. What's everyone else reading?

Giveaway Winners!

Hey everyone I have announced the winners via the post the giveaway was originally posted but I thought I would announce it again for those who never saw the post. I want to first say a big congratulations to everyone who won and I'm sorry to all of you who never won I will try and do another giveaway soon as next month is my blog will be turning 1 (and my actual birthday)!

Here's the winners for my 300 Followers Giveaway:

• The Blonde Zombie
• Sarah Wheeldon
• Jennifer Kamanu
• Jess
• Hazal

Here's the winners for the Foretold Blog Tour

• Kelsey Simpson
• Hana
• Amie
• Misty Price
• Kerry Locke

Thank You to everyone who entered :)

Book Review: Chain Reaction (Perfect Chemistry #3)

Chain Reaction (Perfect Chemistry #3) by Simone Elkeles

(May contain spoilers)

Format: Paperback
Publisher: Simon & Schuster
Published: 5th July 2012
Pages: 308
Main Characters: Luis, Nikki
Date Started: 12th August 2012
Date Finished: 15th August 2012
Rating Given: *****

Blurb from Goodreads:

Like his brothers, Luis Fuentes is a risk taker; whether he's scaling the Rocky Mountains or dreaming of a future as an astronaut, Luis is always looking for the next thrill. Nikki Cruz lives her life by certain rules -, don't trust a boy who says "I love you", boys lie to get their own way and never date a boy from the south side of Fairfield. Then she meets Luis at his brother Alex's wedding and suddenly she's tempted to break all her rules. Getting Nikki to give him a chance is Luis's biggest challenge, until he finds himself targeted by the head of the gang that nearly destroyed his brothers' lives. Will Luis's feelings for Nikki be enough to stop him from entering a dark and violent world that could prove to be the ultimate risk?

 I love the Perfect Chemistry series it's one of my favourite series that I have ever read so when I found out when this one was coming out I pre-ordered it straight away. I would have read it a lot sooner but I had loads of review books so as soon as I had shortened the review pile down this was the first one I picked up and I am so glad I did as I loved it just as much as the other two books.

I am not too sure about the covers especially when I first saw them I thought they looked cheesy but I have gotten used to them well all but Rules of Attraction that is my least favourite cover. I am glad that they are all of each of the brother that that particular book is portraying.

Simone Elkeles is one of my favourite authors and she was my first YA Contemporary Romance author so she has really opened my eyes to a genre that I wouldn't have otherwise have tried. Elkeles is brilliant at this particular genre and I just know that I will love any books that she has/will release. She is able to write her books so that I get so into it that I don't know what's going on around me and I feel like I am actually there. There is another language in the book that I don't know how to pronounce or even what it means although most of the times the in which Elkeles writes it, it makes me kind of understand what is being said. I love that Elkeles has shown me a new culture as I don't read many books with different cultures it makes a refreshing change.

This book never stops as there is always something going on whether it being action or just plain and simple romance and I loved it. There is a major twist in this book that I just wasn't expecting which I love not knowing what to expect as it keeps it entertaining. There was a couple of questions that I would liked to have answers too for example the second child of Alex it doesn't tell us whether it was a boy or a girl or even the name I even looked at Perfect Chemistry to see if it was told but no it wasn't. With that being more of an Alex question and this being Luis's book I didn't really mind. I love everything about this book the beginning, middle and the end, I wouldn't say it's perfect but the little things that I have mentioned that I didn't like was not enough for me to knock the rating of this book down because I love it!

With Chain Reaction we get to see more from the youngest Fuentes brother Luis and even though we have already met him in the other books I still feel like we have only just gotten to see him. Luis is very similar to both of his brothers but also completely different as he is arrogant and funny but he is also very smart even if he does some stupid things. We get to meet a new character called Nikki who I didn't like at the beginning as I thought she seemed a bit too needy but then when things get explained I understand where she was coming from. After that she was a great female character who has gone through so much which made her into a better person. We do get to see Alex and Carlos as well which I didn't mind one bit as I love all the Fuentes brothers and don't ask me to pick a favourite because they are all my favourites!

Overall I'm sad to see this series come to an end but I know I will see them again when I reread the series because there is no doubt in my mind that I will be rereading this series again as it's too good not too.

Book Covers: Breathe

Breathe by Sarah Crossan

The first time I saw this cover on Goodreads I added it to my wishlist as it's just stunning everything about this cover is beautiful.

The first thing that caught my eye was the purple hues, all the different shades of purple creating one beautiful scenery.

I love the way it looks as though it has been split in half as it adds more depth to the cover if it was all in one half it would have looked 2D whereas here it looks more 3D.

The texture of the pathway looks really effective it makes me want to touch it but I bet it will be flat, I think it would be a great idea to give that half a rough texture and then the top a smooth finish as it would feel the way it looks and I'm all for texture on book covers.

As for the font of the title it has been kept simple and usually I prefer the calligraphy style of font but I don't think that would have worked in this particular books case. I'm glad it's simple because like it is it doesn't over power the scenery which I love. It was perfectly positioned because with it being near enough Central my eye is immediately drawn to the title of the book which is important for us to know.

Looking at this cover had made me very curious as to what is going on within the book and after reading the synopsis it does sound like the cover is in keeping with the story which I love.

I do have this book for review but it's not a finished copy which I am a little gutted about however, if I enjoy the book I will get a finished copy so I can have it forever on my shelf.

For the synopsis of the book click the image and it will take you to Goodreads.

Teaser Tuesday #34

Teaser Tuesdays is a weekly bookish meme, hosted by MizB of Should Be Reading. Anyone can play along! To find out more about the books click on the picture which will take you to Goodreads.




My teasers:

Chain Reaction by Simone Elkeles

I didn't mean to knee Luis in the nuts.
    Okay, so that's not entirely true. I meant to knee him where it counts. I just didn't mean  to do it hard-in front of everyone, including the bride and groom. And my parents. And his mother. And everyone else who happened to be on the dance floor at the time. - Page 42

I love this series and this book is no different I am going to seriously miss these Fuentes brothers. There was so many teasers that I could have chosen from and I'm not even finished yet but I decided to go with this one because I found it funny and a couple of pages after this was also a contender!

        Semi-Charmed Life by Nora Zelevansky

He peered incredulously at her. "I know you don't have many windows down here with the pod people, Princess, but it's actually almost noon." Noon! She'd completely forgotten to set her alarm. Lovely. She'd missed her first class. "Anyway, I'm gonna go rejoin the land of the living. You're welcome. I think." He turned to leave.
"For what? You said the roach didn't pose a threat yourself" - Page 45

I'm not sure what to make of this book yet I couldn't seem to get into it straight away but I am starting to get interested now. (This is an arc copy so the quote may differ to the final copy)

It's Monday What Are You Reading? #42

It's Monday What Are You Reading is a weekly meme hosted by Book Journey in which we plan our reading week!
(Click on images to send you to Goodreads)

Finished Reading

(Click on title for review)

Foretold by Jana Oliver

Wake by Amanda Hocking

No more Olympics now so I have more time to read.

Currently Reading

Chain Reaction by Simone Elkeles

Only just started this yesterday but I am loving it already!

Semi-Charmed Life by Nora Zelevansky

Again not read much but it it did start a bit slow so I'm hoping that it will pick up soon.

Reading Next

Velvet by Mary Hooper

So that's what I am planning on reading this week let me know or leave a link to what you're reading

Book Review: Wake (Watersong #1)

Wake (Watersong #1) by Amanda Hocking

Format: Hardback (arc)
Publisher: St. Martin's Press
Published: 7th August 2012
Pages: 309
Main Characters: Gemma, Harper
Date Started: 7th August 2012
Date Finished: 12th August 2012
Rating Given: ***

Blurb from Goodreads:

Fall under the spell of Wake—the first book in an achingly beautiful new series by celebrated author Amanda Hocking—and lose yourself to the Watersong.

Gorgeous. Fearless. Dangerous. They're the kind of girls you envy; the kind of girls you want to hate. Strangers in town for the summer, Penn, Lexi and Thea have caught everyone's attention—but it’s Gemma who’s attracted theirs. She’s the one they’ve chosen to be part of their group.

Gemma seems to have it all—she’s carefree, pretty, and falling in love with Alex, the boy next door. He’s always been just a friend, but this summer they’ve taken their relationship to the next level, and now there’s no going back. Then one night, Gemma’s ordinary life changes forever. She’s taking a late night swim under the stars when she finds Penn, Lexi and Thea partying on the cove. They invite her to join them, and the next morning she wakes up on the beach feeling groggy and sick, knowing something is different.

Suddenly Gemma is stronger, faster, and more beautiful than ever. But her new powers come with a terrifying price. And as she uncovers the truth, she’s is forced to choose between staying with those she loves—or entering a new world brimming with dark hungers and unimaginable secrets.

 When I read the Trylle series which is also written by Amanda Hocking I knew that I would jump at any chance to read her other books. I was so glad when St. Martin's Press sent me a review copy and then they also sent me a Hardback copy as well so a huge thank you to them.

The cover I have always liked but when I was sent a finished hardcopy I fell in love with it. The reason why this hardback copy was better was because the part of the cover that was under the water had a smooth feel to it but also when you moved it in the light it gave a rainbow effect it just looked stunning.

This is my fourth book that I have read by Amanda Hocking and what she does that not many authors do is she has a slow build up in the first book but then the tension explodes by the finale book (well I'm hoping that's the case with this series as it happened with the Trylle series). I love that she puts a twist on the legend of the Mermaids or Siren in this case. She also tells the story from both the sisters point of view which is nice to see what each other are thinking. Hocking was also very good at describing certain scenes which at one point had me feeling a bit ill myself.

With this book being a slow build up it did take awhile before I even knew anything it took until about halfway through before anything interesting happened but I do have faith in this series to continue with it. I did find that there wasn't enough light relief in this book apart from when a particular character was involved. By the time it was coming up to the last couple of chapters I really got into the story and I am looking forward to find out where it's going to go from that particular ending.

The characters I found very similar to the characters from the Trylle series especially Gemma she seemed a lot like the female main character in Hocking's other series. The reason why I think that is because Gemma is annoying and seems spoilt and everyone would do anything for her but I am hoping that she will grow into a better person throughout the series which I'm sure she will as there was an improvement by the end of the book. Harper was supposed to be her older sister but not by many years but she acted more like her mother which I did get why that was I just didn't like she felt she couldn't just relax. My favourite characters where the boys Alex and Daniel who wasn't in it as much as I would have liked. I think Daniel had more of an edge as he was really funny but he was also sweet I have a feeling we will get to know him more throughout this series as there seems to be something about him. There is also three girls called Penn, Thea and Lexi and for the most they seem like they are not nice people but I do think there is a nicer side to Lexi.

Overall a good start to building up this particular world but I am hoping that the series will improve.

Showcase Sunday #14

Showcase Sunday is a new weekly Meme that I am taking part of. This weekly meme is hosted by Vicky over at Book, Biscuits and Tea and for more info click on the SS image which will take you straight to the blog. Click on the titles of the books to take you to Goodreads.





Books mentioned in the vlog

Review Books
A Soldier's Secret by Marissa Moss
Breathe by Sarah Crossan
Book Brought
The Duff by Kody Keplinger
Catching Jordan by Miranda Kenneally
Daughter of Smoke and Bone by Laini Taylor
Dark Eyes by William Richter


Thank you to Bloomsbury and Abrams & Chronicles Publishing for sending me my review books.

Book Cover: Wake

Wake by Amanda Hocking

I have talked about how I love another series from Amanda Hocking and this one is no different as this is a stunning cover.

This picture of the cover doesn't do the actual cover any justice especially the hardback version which I have. When you move the cover into the light it has a rainbow sheen to it, this only happens on the waves making it look more realistic. I love this effect on it as it makes the book stand out.

I love that the cover is near enough completely under the water as I love the colours that the sea makes.

I am currently reading this book at the moment and from what I have read I would say that the cover is very much fitting to the actual story which I like to see.

What you don't see from the picture is that in the hardback version you can take the jacket off and on the back it has a beautiful poster.

The font of the title seems to flow with the rest of the cover as to me the curves reminds me of the waves that the sea creates.

As I said I am currently reading the book but so far I would say the cover is more stunning than the actual book but that could change maybe not in this book but I'm sure the story will improve as it continues as there are three more books that could change that.

For me I would say that most of Amanda Hocking's covers are stunning and by the looks of the next one in this series I would say that they are set to continue in their beauty.

Book Review: Foretold (The Demon Trappers #4)

Foretold (The Demon Trappers #4) by Jana Oliver

(May contain spoilers)

Format: Paperback (arc)
Publisher: Pan Macmillan
Published: 2nd August 2012
Pages: 438
Main Characters: Riley, Beck
Date Started: 31st July 2012
Date Finished: 6th August 2012
Rating Given: ****

Blurb from Goodreads:

Stand by as Riley prepares to kick some serious demon butt for the last time in this thrilling, dramatic and sexy conclusion to The Demon Trappers series.

Riley’s always known that Beck had a chequered history, but she’s not prepared for what it actually means to be in love with a guy with this many dark secrets. Now that he’s finally admitted to himself that he’s in love with her too, there’s no more hiding the truth about his past. And as it turns out, fending off a demon apocalypse is nothing compared to what’s to come...

I have read all the other books in this series and really enjoyed them all so imagine my delight when the lovely publishers at Pan Macmillan sent me a copy to review!

If you have read some of my book cover posts you will know that I have talked about this series which I loved apart from this one, however, when it arrived in the post I love it. The only thing I don't like about it is that it is a little different to the others.

I have only read this series written by Jana Oliver but I am sure it won't be the last. I find Oliver is a huge talent as not everyone can speak in different accents let alone writing in different accents. She also addresses some big issues that where beautifully written.

I did love this book and there was only a couple of bits that stopped me from rating it the full five stars. First the beginning of the book wasn't as action packed as what I am used to but I didn't mind too much as what was going on needed to be told. I did find a couple of times where the point of view would change without warning so sometimes I would get confused to who was speaking. There was also one question that didn't get answered which I would have liked to have known these are all minor points which is why I only took one star away as the rest was amazing. Apart from the beginning this book was action packed and I could never tell what was going to happen next it had me on the edge of the seat a lot of the time. I loved the ending although I would have liked to have seen further into the future.

The two main characters Riley and Beck are brilliant and two of my favourite characters ever as they are great characters to read about. I find they are both very similar in their ways as they both strong fighters, also they seem like they are stubborn but they also have a softer side to them. I love their interaction with one another but there are times throughout this series that I felt like knocking their heads together but both of them had issues to overcome before they could let anyone in. I think this is one of those books where I seem to like most of the characters as they all have some defining moments.

Overall, I would say that if you haven't read this series you should as it's brilliant.

If you like the sound of this book I am apart of the Foretold blog tour where I have five copies up for grabs just click on the Foretold Blog Tour Banner on the sidebar to take you to the giveaway.

Teaser Tuesday #33

Teaser Tuesdays is a weekly bookish meme, hosted by MizB of Should Be Reading. Anyone can play along!




My teaser:

Wake by Amanda Hocking

All Gemma knew was that she hated it when they came out here. It disrupted her night swims. She didn't feel comfortable being in the water, not when they were out in the cove, dancing and singing and doing whatever it was they did. - Page 17

I have only just started this book today so I'm not that far into it. I'm not sure what to make of the book yet as it's taking awhile to get into it but I have a feeling when it gets further into the book it will improve, but not a bad start.

It's Monday What Are You Reading? #41

It's Monday What Are You Reading is a weekly meme hosted by Book Journey in which we plan our reading week!
(Click on images to send you to Goodreads)

Finished Reading

(Click on title for review)

Pushing the Limits by Katie McGarry

As you may have guessed it was a bad week of reading from me again as I am addicted to watching the Olympics. They are coming to a end soon so I will have more time to read plus I read when something is on that I don't need to know about.

Currently Reading

Foretold by Jana Oliver

Just under 100 pages left of this book and so far it's a brilliant book they seemed to have saved the best until last. If you are from the UK then you can win a copy of this book in my stop of the Foretold Blog Tour. (Click here to enter)

What I plan on reading next

Wake by Amanda Hocking

If you have seen a previous It's Monday post you will know that I was planning on reading this book a couple of weeks ago but I never got around to reading it so this week I will definitely be starting this one.

Semi-Charmed Life by Nora Zelevansky

Another book that I have said that I was going to read in previous posts but never got around to it, this time I will start it.

So that's my week of reading planned, what are you planning on reading this week?

In this post I mentioned about my UK only giveaway but I also have a International giveaway going on (only a couple of days left to enter). This is a chance where you can win an ecopy of Vampire Shift by Tim O'Rourke. (To enter click here)

Foretold Blog Tour: UK ONLY Giveaway

I am so happy and excited to be asked to do my first ever blog tour as well as doing it for one of my favourite series/author. Thanks to the lovely publishers at Pans Macmillan who have said that they are willing to giveaway 5 copies yes you heard right 5 COPIES! The only thing is it's for UK only as they are the ones sending it.

I am actually reading Foretold at the minute (nearly finished) which is the 4th and final in The Demon Trappers Series and I must tell you it's brilliant!

I really wanted to have finished it by now but those pesky Olympics are on and I am addicted to them!

a Rafflecopter giveaway


For my international followers I have another giveaway going on which you will find by clicking on my 300 follower giveaway on the side bar --->

Showcase Sunday #13

Showcase Sunday is a new weekly Meme that I am taking part of. This weekly meme is hosted by Vicky over at Book, Biscuits and Tea and for more info click on the SS image which will take you straight to the blog. Click on the titles of the books to take you to Goodreads.


Books mentioned in the vlog

Week commencing 23/07
Review Books
The Raven Boys by Maggie Stiefvater (Scholastic)
League of Strays by L.B. Schulman (Abrams & Chronicles)
Books Brought
Touch by Jus Accardo
Books Swapped
Masquerade by Cambria Hebert

Books from this week
Review Books
Glitch by Heather Anastasiu (St. Martin's Press)
Heaven by Alexandra Adornetto (ATOM)
Wake by Amanda Hocking (St. Martin's Press)
Gifted Books
The Statistical Probability of Love at First Sight by Jennifer E. Smith (RAK)
Of Poseidon by Anna Banks

Thanks
Ellie @ Musings of a Book Shop Girl (click for Ellie's Blog)
All the book publishers for review books
Stephanie from Goodreads
Last but by no means least my Mum

BOTM #10

Last month I did a vlog version but I don't think it translated well but I will maybe do more of a wrap up vlog for just my YouTube channel.
Here's the books that I read in July:

• Blood Moon by Alyxandra Harvey ****
• Shattered Dreams by Ellie James ****
• Spark by Amy Kathleen Ryan ***
• Otherkin by Nina Berry ***
• Taken By Storm by Jennifer Lynn Barnes *****
• Burn by Heath Gibson **
• Revived by Cat Patrick ****
• Pushing The Limits by Katie McGarry *****

I didn't read as many as I did last month but what I did read for the most I enjoyed and found it very hard to pick as you can tell I read two five stars books but in the end there was only one winner for me and the Book Of The Month in July goes too...

Pushing the Limits by Katie McGarry

I have not long since finished it and only reviewed it yesterday it's as if I saved the best until last as this book just shone it was brilliant and I highly recommend this book to anyone who hasn't read it. Click on the image to take you to Goodreads and click HERE for my review.

300 Follower Giveaway

This week I have reached the 300 follower milestone which I am so grateful to you all so much so I have decided to do my first ever giveaway.

For my first giveaway the lovely Tim O'Rourke has said he is willing to give 5 e-copies of his novel Vampire Shift to 5 lucky winners. I have actually read this book and I have to tell you it's a very good read here's a link to my review. With this being an e-copy this giveaway will be International.
As I said this is my first giveaway so please bare with me as I am learning how to even use Rafflecopter.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Book Review: Pushing The Limits

Pushing The Limits by Katie McGarry

Format: Paperback (arc)
Publisher: Mira Ink
Published: 3rd August 2012
Pages: 392
Main Characters: Echo, Noah
Date Started: 20th July 2012
Date Finished: 30th July 2012
Rating Given: *****

Blurb from Goodreads:

"I won't tell anyone, Echo. I promise." Noah tucked a curl behind my ear. It had been so long since someone touched me like he did. Why did it have to be Noah Hutchins? His dark brown eyes shifted to my covered arms. "You didn't do that-did you? It was done to you?" No one ever asked that question. They stared. They whispered. They laughed. But they never asked.So wrong for each other...and yet so right.
No one knows what happened the night Echo Emerson went from popular girl with jock boyfriend to gossiped-about outsider with "freaky" scars on her arms. Even Echo can't remember the whole truth of that horrible night. All she knows is that she wants everything to go back to normal. But when Noah Hutchins, the smoking-hot, girl-using loner in the black leather jacket, explodes into her life with his tough attitude and surprising understanding, Echo's world shifts in ways she could never have imagined. They should have nothing in common. And with the secrets they both keep, being together is pretty much impossible.Yet the crazy attraction between them refuses to go away. And Echo has to ask herself just how far they can push the limits and what she'll risk for the one guy who might teach her how to love again.

I had heard a lot of great reviews for this book which made me want to find out what the fuss was about so a big thank you goes out to the Mira Ink publishers for giving me the oppertunity to review a brilliant book.

It was the American cover that I first saw with this book which I liked but I think this one could well be my favourite as I love the colours used which makes it stand out. I would say that it fits in well with the story as the story is about these two nothing else is needed.

This is Katie McGarry's debut novel but what a powerful start to what I (and many other am sure) think will be brilliant career. The writing in this book was just stunning with so much angst I felt like I was there rather than reading it.

It was such a roller coaster ride of emotions and found myself in tears in a lot of parts of this book. It was a very addicting book that had me from the moment it started right until it ended. There was some very strong issues that was addressed in this book and I'm so glad that they where addressed in a careful but beautiful manner. The only bad thing about this book was that it had to end!

As for the characters I loved the two main ones (Echo and Noah) I would go as far as saying they are two of my favourite characters ever. They both had so much to go through that just made them even more likable as it showed a soft side to their characters. The relationship between these two main characters was nice to see grow. There was some other side characters that wasn't always the best of people and then there was some just as good as Noah and Echo. Beth was one and I think we are going to find out more from in McGarry's next book but I am hoping we will get to see some more from Noah and Echo.

Overall this isn't just about love it's also about life and the way that it doesn't always go the way you want. A beautiful novel and I for one can't wait to read more from the hugely talented McGarry.

Book Cover: The Luxe

The Luxe by Anna Godbersen

This is the first in the Luxe series which I have read all but the last one (but that's another story) which I did enjoy but this was more cover lust for me. When I first saw this in the book store I hadn't heard of it before but that cover had me the moment I set my eyes on it. I didn't care what it was about I knew I had to have this cover. In the end it wasn't a strong enough series (at that time as it was a few years ago so may feel differently now) for me to keep this series which is a shame as it's a beautiful cover.

I love the way that the dress is the star of this cover and actually all of the covers are the same in that way but they are different dresses and colours but all beautiful. I couldn't pick a favourite cover in this series which is why I went for the first cover just to show you how it all started.

I do feel that there is a lot going on with in this cover but for some strange reason it doesn't look too crowded.

I love the patterns and flowers with some dark pink butterflies it really does look good but with it being on top of that dress they don't stand out well apart from the pinks maybe if it was all in that shade it would have been too much.

I love the font of the title as it really does flow with the rest of the cover. It was very well placed as it was able to frame the girl in the dress.

The cover does fit well with the actual story as there is a lot of these beautiful dresses as it was in that time period when getting these huge dresses was a big thing.

Overall a stunning cover but for me the story didn't live up to it.