Showcase Sunday is a 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.
30 March 2014
Showcase Sunday #79
Posted by
Kate @ Kates Book Life
at
3/30/2014 08:30:00 am
Showcase Sunday #79
2014-03-30T08:30:00+01:00
Kate @ Kates Book Life
Ali Harris|Kim Karr|Marie Hall|Rachel Schurig|Shelly Crane|Showcase Sunday|Taylor Wade|Teri Wilson|Victoria Scott|
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27 March 2014
Book Review: Juilliard or Else by Nichele Reese
Format: Kindle
Publishers: Indie
Published: 23rd May 2013
Pages: 452
Genre: New Adult, Contemporary Romance
Main Characters: Abigail, Tucker
Date Read: 16th March - 23rd March 2014
Rating Given:
I saw quite a few good reviews for this one and then add that it's about a dancer (never read a book involving dancing) I knew I just had to buy it.
The cover for this book is stunning and very fitting for the actual story, the cover is another reason why I had to get this book (yes I judge a book by it's cover even though I know I shouldn't).
I loved the sound of this book as it sounded like it was similar to Romeo and Juliet which for the most part it was but for the most part I was disappointed with this book. The first half of the book was so boring I didn't think I was going to continue with it but I am glad I did as the second part picked up loads and I found myself wondering what was going to happen next. The hard hitting issues where a great addition to the story which gave it the much needed action even if some of it was completely unbelievable. As for the dancing side of the story I would have loved to have seen more incorporated seeing as that was what she loved. I didn't feel like there was really any chemistry between the two main characters as it seemed like they where friends rather than being in love. There was a few things that I didn't see coming and then other things that I could see a mile away which I didn't mind as it did keep me guessing. I adored the ending as it went a little bit into the future so I felt there was the closure that I sometimes find missing in stand alone/series finales.
I didn't feel like the characters where relatable and for most part they kind of annoyed me. At first I kind of liked Abigail as I could tell she had a rough childhood even if her family did have money it just goes to show that money doesn't always buy happiness. In the end though I felt like she was far too needy and too trusting when she shouldn't have been. She also kept making the same mistakes and I just thought she seemed younger than her 19 years. Tucker I thought I was going to like as again he had a troubled childhood even more than Abigail so I understood the way in which he acted. He ended up making far to many wrong choices and I was shocked to find out that he was supposed to be 25! He definitely didn't act like it. He did have some very sweet moments which I loved. As for Abigail's friends Rachel and Jade I actually liked but there was something that Jade did towards the end that I thought was not what a friend would and she should have been there like she was in the beginning.
Overall there was a lot of times when I wasn't liking this book but when it was good it was very, very good.
Blurb:
This is a twisting story of young love torn in two.
Abigail McCall has been accepted into Juilliard for Ballet. Being nineteen, she’s ready to move out of her tight shell at her parent’s house and in with her new roommates. Abigail finds herself distracted with things she never saw herself doing.
'Hey, I’m Tucker.That’s all it took. His own name rolling off his tongue.'
With no job and coming from a broken home with a mother who doesn’t care what happens to him, could you blame Tucker for being so secretive? The dark and mysterious Tucker has his sights set on the prim and proper ballerina. So he knows he has to change his self destructive ways in order to keep Abigail in his life. Which means, betraying his closest friends.
Obstacles are thrown at them. They don’t approve of the ballerina and the poor boy.
The world won’t let Abigail and Tucker be together. What do they have to sacrifice to stay together...
Can the good come out in the bad? Or does someone always end up hurt and alone?
Tucker has nothing, but Abigail has everything to lose...
I saw quite a few good reviews for this one and then add that it's about a dancer (never read a book involving dancing) I knew I just had to buy it.
The cover for this book is stunning and very fitting for the actual story, the cover is another reason why I had to get this book (yes I judge a book by it's cover even though I know I shouldn't).
I loved the sound of this book as it sounded like it was similar to Romeo and Juliet which for the most part it was but for the most part I was disappointed with this book. The first half of the book was so boring I didn't think I was going to continue with it but I am glad I did as the second part picked up loads and I found myself wondering what was going to happen next. The hard hitting issues where a great addition to the story which gave it the much needed action even if some of it was completely unbelievable. As for the dancing side of the story I would have loved to have seen more incorporated seeing as that was what she loved. I didn't feel like there was really any chemistry between the two main characters as it seemed like they where friends rather than being in love. There was a few things that I didn't see coming and then other things that I could see a mile away which I didn't mind as it did keep me guessing. I adored the ending as it went a little bit into the future so I felt there was the closure that I sometimes find missing in stand alone/series finales.
I didn't feel like the characters where relatable and for most part they kind of annoyed me. At first I kind of liked Abigail as I could tell she had a rough childhood even if her family did have money it just goes to show that money doesn't always buy happiness. In the end though I felt like she was far too needy and too trusting when she shouldn't have been. She also kept making the same mistakes and I just thought she seemed younger than her 19 years. Tucker I thought I was going to like as again he had a troubled childhood even more than Abigail so I understood the way in which he acted. He ended up making far to many wrong choices and I was shocked to find out that he was supposed to be 25! He definitely didn't act like it. He did have some very sweet moments which I loved. As for Abigail's friends Rachel and Jade I actually liked but there was something that Jade did towards the end that I thought was not what a friend would and she should have been there like she was in the beginning.
Overall there was a lot of times when I wasn't liking this book but when it was good it was very, very good.
Posted by
Kate @ Kates Book Life
at
3/27/2014 03:10:00 pm
Book Review: Juilliard or Else by Nichele Reese
2014-03-27T15:10:00Z
Kate @ Kates Book Life
3.5/5 Rating|Book Review|Contemp Romance|Indie Publishing|New Adult|Nichele Reese|
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26 March 2014
Waiting on Wednesday: Take Me On by Katie McGarry
"Waiting On" Wednesday is a weekly event, hosted by Breaking the Spine, that spotlights upcoming releases that we're eagerly anticipating.
Here's this week's book I can't wait for...
I have loved every single book in the Pushing the Limits series so I have high expectations for this one to be just as good and from that blurb I think it might even be better!!
What are you waiting on?
Take Me On (Pushing the Limits, #4) by Katie McGarry
Expected Publication - 27th May 2014
Blurb:
Acclaimed author Katie McGarry returns with the knockout new story of two high school seniors who are about to learn what winning really means
Champion kickboxer Haley swore she'd never set foot in the ring again after one tragic night. But then the guy she can't stop thinking about accepts a mixed martial arts fight in her honor. Suddenly, Haley has to train West Young. All attitude, West is everything Haley promised herself she'd stay away from. Yet he won't last five seconds in the ring without her help.
West is keeping a big secret from Haley. About who he really is. But helping her-fighting for her-is a shot at redemption. Especially since it's his fault his family is falling apart. He can't change the past, but maybe he can change Haley's future.
Hayley and West have agreed to keep their relationship strictly in the ring. But as an unexpected bond forms between them and attraction mocks their best intentions, they'll face their darkest fears and discover love is worth fighting for.
I have loved every single book in the Pushing the Limits series so I have high expectations for this one to be just as good and from that blurb I think it might even be better!!
What are you waiting on?
Posted by
Kate @ Kates Book Life
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3/26/2014 02:32:00 pm
Waiting on Wednesday: Take Me On by Katie McGarry
2014-03-26T14:32:00Z
Kate @ Kates Book Life
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25 March 2014
Book Review: Playing With Fire (Tales of an Extraordinary Girl, #1) by Gena Showalter
Format: Paperback
Publishers: Mira Books
Published: 1st January 2011
Pages: 384
Genre: Adult, Paranormal Romance
Main Characters: Belle, Rome
Date Read: 16th March - 23rd March 2014
Rating Given:
I only bought this at the beginning of the month but with it being a Gena Showalter book I knew I couldn't wait a moment longer, plus I had been after this book for years but could never find a copy but it was well worth the wait.
This is the more updated book cover which I am so pleased I bought as this one far outshines the original book cover. I love the fact that it is in keeping with the book and even with the title. I also love the use of colours as the use of orange and blacks give the effect of fire which I felt shined when I looked at it from the corner of my eye.
I decided I needed to read a Paranormal Romance book as for what seems like ages I haven't read an amazing Paranormal book so who better to read that a book by Gena Showalter! Showalter has done it again and made me fall in love with the world that she created and gave me a much needed Paranormal Romance boost. As soon as I started this book I was completely drawn into this book and I couldn't wait to read the next chapter. I loved the different take on the paranormal as for most part (that I know of) was not born what they where but created which so different to me in a book but in film I would say its along the lines of X Men which I love. The attraction between the two main characters was sizzling so much I could feel it through the pages. I felt the ending was perfect as there was no huge cliff hanger and if I find the second book as hard to find I won't feel like I'm missing out on something.
Most of the characters in this book was great the only ones I wasn't a fan of was the bad guys which goes without saying. Belle is one of my favourite ever female characters as she was such a strong and independent person that gave as good as she got, but she was also the funniest female character ever as I was in stitches with some of the things she came out with (or did). Usually the male characters are my favourite characters but in this case Belle wins which was a huge surprise to me. Even though Rome wasn't my favourite in this book I still loved him. There was moments that I wasn't quite sure to trust him but in the end him very trust able as he did a very selfless thing that had my heart in my mouth. Tanner was a close second favourite in this book as he was hilarious but there was times that had me feeling sorry for him. I would have loved to have seen more from Tanner.
Overall I absolutely loved this book and I look forward to reading the next book in this series or any book by Gena Showalter for that matter!
Blurb:
Twenty-four-year-old barista Belle Jamison dreams of a better job and a decent love life. Until a crazy scientist spikes her mocha latte! Suddenly Belle can wield the four elements--earth, wind, fire and water--with only a thought. Coffee too hot? No problem. Hair in need of a blow-dry? Done.Gorgeous government agent Rome Masters has been sent to neutralize Belle. But he's not the only one after her. Together they must outrun the rogue agents on their trail and find a way to control her powers. There's just one problem: the sparks Belle and Rome generate are even hotter than the ones flying from her eyes--and with her future on the line, now is the worst possible time to fall in love....
I only bought this at the beginning of the month but with it being a Gena Showalter book I knew I couldn't wait a moment longer, plus I had been after this book for years but could never find a copy but it was well worth the wait.
This is the more updated book cover which I am so pleased I bought as this one far outshines the original book cover. I love the fact that it is in keeping with the book and even with the title. I also love the use of colours as the use of orange and blacks give the effect of fire which I felt shined when I looked at it from the corner of my eye.
I decided I needed to read a Paranormal Romance book as for what seems like ages I haven't read an amazing Paranormal book so who better to read that a book by Gena Showalter! Showalter has done it again and made me fall in love with the world that she created and gave me a much needed Paranormal Romance boost. As soon as I started this book I was completely drawn into this book and I couldn't wait to read the next chapter. I loved the different take on the paranormal as for most part (that I know of) was not born what they where but created which so different to me in a book but in film I would say its along the lines of X Men which I love. The attraction between the two main characters was sizzling so much I could feel it through the pages. I felt the ending was perfect as there was no huge cliff hanger and if I find the second book as hard to find I won't feel like I'm missing out on something.
Most of the characters in this book was great the only ones I wasn't a fan of was the bad guys which goes without saying. Belle is one of my favourite ever female characters as she was such a strong and independent person that gave as good as she got, but she was also the funniest female character ever as I was in stitches with some of the things she came out with (or did). Usually the male characters are my favourite characters but in this case Belle wins which was a huge surprise to me. Even though Rome wasn't my favourite in this book I still loved him. There was moments that I wasn't quite sure to trust him but in the end him very trust able as he did a very selfless thing that had my heart in my mouth. Tanner was a close second favourite in this book as he was hilarious but there was times that had me feeling sorry for him. I would have loved to have seen more from Tanner.
Overall I absolutely loved this book and I look forward to reading the next book in this series or any book by Gena Showalter for that matter!
Posted by
Kate @ Kates Book Life
at
3/25/2014 03:02:00 pm
Book Review: Playing With Fire (Tales of an Extraordinary Girl, #1) by Gena Showalter
2014-03-25T15:02:00Z
Kate @ Kates Book Life
5/5 Rating|Adult|Book Review|Gena Showalter|Mira Books|Paranormal Romance|
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20 March 2014
Book Review: Private Air by Billie Bates
Format: Kindle (earc)
Publishers: Indie
Published: 2013
Pages: 192
Genre: Adult, Contemporary Romance
Main Characters: Sienna
Date Read: 12th March - 16th March 2014
Rating Given:
Blurb:When Sienna Harris joined the Australian Air Force as a flight attendant for the Prime Minister, she thought she’d hit the glam-job jackpot. But three years of weapons training, outback destinations, and a cheating fighter pilot fiancé, and she’s realized it’s not so fabulous after all. Time to embark on a new adventure, this time to the prestigious world of international VIP aviation. Sienna and her best friend leave behind their small-town lives for a glitzy career flight attending on a Saudi prince’s private jet. Money, parties, designer clothes, and exotic locations fill the job description, while the sexy pilot, Ted, makes it hard for Sienna to obey the “no fraternizing” rule. But even the most opulent of journeys can hit turbulence. Sienna’s boss, the appearance-obsessed chief stewardess, issues diuretics and Botox with the uniforms and catering orders, and the prince is a man who’s never told no. Underneath its lush appearance, could this desert oasis be more of a muddy puddle? The Devil Wears Prada meets Pan Am in this fun frolic to the glamorous side of air travel, inspired by the author’s own experience as a VIP flight attendant in Saudi Arabia and Europe.
When I came across this book on netgalley I thought it sounded like a quick and fun read but for me that just wasn't the case.
I like this cover as it feels like summer colours which always look stunning. I love that it is an illustrated cover as it they was able to keep it so it looked like it came straight from inside the pages.
As soon as I started this book I just knew I was going to have trouble with it and I wasn't wrong. It was so slow and uninteresting that I really wanted to stop reading it and the only reason why I continued was because I am doing a birthstone challenge and I don't have many colours for this month so I knew I had to finish it so I could complete this months challenge. I was expecting to be laughing out loud with this one but that wasn't the case, there was times that I thought was a little funny but not enough to laugh out loud. I did like one of the issues raised in this book as it was the only thing that seemed believable in today's society. Don't even get me started on the romance side of the story as it wasn't believable and I couldn't believe that she went with him even after what happened to her. What really saved the book was towards the end when some really interesting things that happened which I really wanted to find out what was going to happen next. I felt the ending went back to not being interesting and it didn't have any real closure which I found really annoying.
I couldn't warm to any of the characters apart from one secondary character (can't remember his name I think it might be Luke) whom I really wanted in the book more than a couple of moments. Sienna was an annoying character that didn't seem to care about anybody but herself. I thought she was going to be a strong character but in the end I found her to be a hypocrite and someone that gives in to peer pressure very easily.
Posted by
Kate @ Kates Book Life
at
3/20/2014 03:31:00 pm
Book Review: Private Air by Billie Bates
2014-03-20T15:31:00Z
Kate @ Kates Book Life
2/5 Rating|Adult|Billie Bates|Book Review|Contemp Romance|Indie Publishing|
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19 March 2014
Waiting on Wednesday: All Lined Up by Cora Carmack
"Waiting On" Wednesday is a weekly event, hosted by Breaking the Spine, that spotlights upcoming releases that we're eagerly anticipating.
Here's this week's book I can't wait for...
I have only read Losing It by Cora Carmack but it left such an impression that I will read all of her books. I also love the sound of this book as at the minute I am loving books that are sport related so I am even more excited for this one.
All Lined Up (Rusk University, #1) by Cora Carmack
Expected Publication: 13th May 2014
Blurb:
New York Times and USA Today bestselling author Cora Carmack follows up her trio of hits—Losing It, Faking It, and Finding It—with this thrilling first novel in an explosive series bursting with the Texas flavor, edge, and steamy romance of Friday Night Lights.
In Texas, two things are cherished above all else—football and gossip. My life has always been ruled by both.
Dallas Cole loathes football. That's what happens when you spend your whole childhood coming in second to a sport. College is her time to step out of the bleachers, and put the playing field (and the players) in her past.
But life doesn't always go as planned. As if going to the same college as her football star ex wasn’t bad enough, her father, a Texas high school coaching phenom, has decided to make the jump to college ball… as the new head coach at Rusk University. Dallas finds herself in the shadows of her father and football all over again.
Carson McClain is determined to go from second-string quarterback to the starting line-up. He needs the scholarship and the future that football provides. But when a beautiful redhead literally falls into his life, his focus is more than tested. It's obliterated.
Dallas doesn't know Carson is on the team. Carson doesn't know that Dallas is his new coach's daughter.
And neither of them know how to walk away from the attraction they feel.
I have only read Losing It by Cora Carmack but it left such an impression that I will read all of her books. I also love the sound of this book as at the minute I am loving books that are sport related so I am even more excited for this one.
Posted by
Kate @ Kates Book Life
at
3/19/2014 02:48:00 pm
Waiting on Wednesday: All Lined Up by Cora Carmack
2014-03-19T14:48:00Z
Kate @ Kates Book Life
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18 March 2014
Book Review: Beautiful Disaster (Beautiful, #1) by Jamie McGuire
Format: Paperback
Publishers: Simon &Schuster UK
Published: 14th August 2012
Pages: 418
Genre: New Adult, Contemporary Romance
Main Characters: Abby/Pigeon, Dank, Leif
Date Read: 8th March - 11th March 2014
Rating Given:
I bought this a couple of years ago for my birthday and I have only just gotten around to reading it and I don't know why as I thoroughly enjoyed this book.
I must admit one of the reasons why I wanted to have his book was because of the cover as it's stunning. The only thing I don't like about it is that it has no relevance to the story (in my opinion). I love the way in which the title has been done as I think that is kind of in keeping with the storyline.
As soon as I started this book I just had to read a bit more before I could put it down and before I knew it I was pretty far into the book, I was that hooked. I loved this book so much that I kept thinking about reading the next book straight after but in the end I thought I would wait until next month so that I can get it into my head that that book will be from Travis's point of view and not Abbey's. There was so many times that had me laughing out loud and then the next minute I would be gasping at what one of them had done. From the moment that Travis and Abbey meet you could tell that there was an instant chemistry even if one of them didn't want to admit to it. I truly feel that the title of the book is a perfect way to describe the relationship between Travis and Abbey. The ending for me was perfect as even though it doesn't go very far into the future it does a little bit and I loved the outcome, now I just need to read what Travis was thinking through out this book bring on Walking Disaster is all I can say!!
I loved just about every character in this book especially the two main characters even if there was times when I shouldn't I just couldn't help myself. Abbey for me seemed a bit stuck up at the beginning but I soon found that was just a front she put on. I loved the way she never took any rubbish from Travis and told him how it is (for the most part) but then on the other hand some of the things she did/said I hated. Travis I loved from the very beginning he was so funny but there was some things that he did for Abbey that had me swooning, he could be so sweet at times. There was another side to Travis that wasn't so sweet but I just couldn't seem to care.
Overall this was an amazing book that I would highly recommend everyone to read and on a plus side I have found out that Travis's brothers are going to get their own books so I can't wait for those.
Blurb:
GOOD GIRLAbby Abernathy doesn't drink or swear and she works hard. Abby believes she has buried her dark past, but when she arrives at college, ger dreams of a new beginning are quickly challenged by the university's walking one-night stand.
BAD BOYTravis Maddox, sexy, built, and covered in tattoos, is exactly what Abby needs - and wants - to avoid. He spends his nights winning money in a floating fight club, and his days as the notorious college Lothario.
IMMINENT DISASTER?Intrigued by Abby's resistance to his charms, Travis tricks her into his life with a simple bet. If he loses, he must remain celibate for a month. If Abby loses, she must live in travis's apartment of trh same amount of time.
OR THE START OF SOMETHING BEAUTIFUL?Either way, TRavis has no idea that he has met his match. Or that this is the start of an obsessive, intense relationship that will lead them both into unimaginable territory.
I bought this a couple of years ago for my birthday and I have only just gotten around to reading it and I don't know why as I thoroughly enjoyed this book.
I must admit one of the reasons why I wanted to have his book was because of the cover as it's stunning. The only thing I don't like about it is that it has no relevance to the story (in my opinion). I love the way in which the title has been done as I think that is kind of in keeping with the storyline.
As soon as I started this book I just had to read a bit more before I could put it down and before I knew it I was pretty far into the book, I was that hooked. I loved this book so much that I kept thinking about reading the next book straight after but in the end I thought I would wait until next month so that I can get it into my head that that book will be from Travis's point of view and not Abbey's. There was so many times that had me laughing out loud and then the next minute I would be gasping at what one of them had done. From the moment that Travis and Abbey meet you could tell that there was an instant chemistry even if one of them didn't want to admit to it. I truly feel that the title of the book is a perfect way to describe the relationship between Travis and Abbey. The ending for me was perfect as even though it doesn't go very far into the future it does a little bit and I loved the outcome, now I just need to read what Travis was thinking through out this book bring on Walking Disaster is all I can say!!
I loved just about every character in this book especially the two main characters even if there was times when I shouldn't I just couldn't help myself. Abbey for me seemed a bit stuck up at the beginning but I soon found that was just a front she put on. I loved the way she never took any rubbish from Travis and told him how it is (for the most part) but then on the other hand some of the things she did/said I hated. Travis I loved from the very beginning he was so funny but there was some things that he did for Abbey that had me swooning, he could be so sweet at times. There was another side to Travis that wasn't so sweet but I just couldn't seem to care.
Overall this was an amazing book that I would highly recommend everyone to read and on a plus side I have found out that Travis's brothers are going to get their own books so I can't wait for those.
Posted by
Kate @ Kates Book Life
at
3/18/2014 03:18:00 pm
Book Review: Beautiful Disaster (Beautiful, #1) by Jamie McGuire
2014-03-18T15:18:00Z
Kate @ Kates Book Life
5/5 Rating|Book Review|Contemp Romance|Jaime McGuire|New Adult|Simon/Schuster|
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13 March 2014
Book Review: Existence (Existence, #1) by Abbi Glines
Format: Kindle
Publishers: Wild Child Publishing
Published: 13th December 2011
Pages: 161
Genre: Young Adult,Paranormal Romance
Main Characters: Pagen, Dank, Leif
Date Read: 8th March - 11th March 2014
Rating Given:
With this being an Abbi Glines book of course I had to get especially when it was really cheap. I was a little disappointed with this one as it wasn't as good as all the other Glines books that I have read.
I do love this cover and my eye is immediately drawn to the guys eyes as they are so mesmerising. My favourite part of the cover is the font used for the title as it's different to other books. The only thing is that there's a new cover for this series but thankfully it's just as eye catching.
Usually with Abbi Glines books I am immediately hooked but for this book that just wasn't the case. It wasn't until about halfway through when I started to get drawn into the world that she created it definitely was addicting from then on. There was also a lot of things that I just didn't understand but I think that this could have been because of the length of the novel as it was very short so things was just left out. I loved the paranormal side of the story, it wasn't unique but it was an interesting take on the whole ghost/soul thing. I felt that the romance side of the story was a little forced which was a huge surprise from Abbi she has always done such great romance stories. I did like the ending as there was no huge cliff hangers, yes there was a lot of things that went unresolved but nothing I couldn't wait to find out.
I kind of had a love hate with some of the characters especially the main female character Pagen. There was times when she seemed nice but then other times she seemed very selfish and very judgemental. Leif was for the most part an ok character but he just seemed too good to be true. I really liked Dank (although the name wasn't the best) he tried to do what was right even if it hurt Pagen but there was times when I wanted to slap him upside his head.
Overall I was disappointed with this book but there is hope for this series as it wasn't all bad, I just hope that the next book is a lot better.
Blurb:
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.
With this being an Abbi Glines book of course I had to get especially when it was really cheap. I was a little disappointed with this one as it wasn't as good as all the other Glines books that I have read.
I do love this cover and my eye is immediately drawn to the guys eyes as they are so mesmerising. My favourite part of the cover is the font used for the title as it's different to other books. The only thing is that there's a new cover for this series but thankfully it's just as eye catching.
Usually with Abbi Glines books I am immediately hooked but for this book that just wasn't the case. It wasn't until about halfway through when I started to get drawn into the world that she created it definitely was addicting from then on. There was also a lot of things that I just didn't understand but I think that this could have been because of the length of the novel as it was very short so things was just left out. I loved the paranormal side of the story, it wasn't unique but it was an interesting take on the whole ghost/soul thing. I felt that the romance side of the story was a little forced which was a huge surprise from Abbi she has always done such great romance stories. I did like the ending as there was no huge cliff hangers, yes there was a lot of things that went unresolved but nothing I couldn't wait to find out.
I kind of had a love hate with some of the characters especially the main female character Pagen. There was times when she seemed nice but then other times she seemed very selfish and very judgemental. Leif was for the most part an ok character but he just seemed too good to be true. I really liked Dank (although the name wasn't the best) he tried to do what was right even if it hurt Pagen but there was times when I wanted to slap him upside his head.
Overall I was disappointed with this book but there is hope for this series as it wasn't all bad, I just hope that the next book is a lot better.
Posted by
Kate @ Kates Book Life
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3/13/2014 03:21:00 pm
Book Review: Existence (Existence, #1) by Abbi Glines
2014-03-13T15:21:00Z
Kate @ Kates Book Life
3.5/5 Rating|Abbi Glines|Book Review|Paranormal Romance|Wild Child Publishing|YA|
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12 March 2014
Book Review: The Rising (The Painted Maidens Trilogy, #1) by Terra Harmony
Format: Kindle (Review)
Publishers: Patchwork Press
Published: 7th November 2013
Pages: 271
Genre: Young Adult,Paranormal Romance, Fantasy
Main Characters: Serena, Kai, Liam
Date Read: 1st March - 7th March 2014
Rating Given:
I received this book from netgalley ages ago and I have only now decided to read it and now I do realise why it had taken me so long.
This is a very pretty cover, I especially love the use of colours. I love that it is also in keeping with the story and that I know what it's about.
It took me such a long time to get into this book as nothing much was happening and the things that did happen left me feeling bored. It wasn't until over half way through when I got into this book but even then it was a continuous love there was still times that left me feeling bored. I really do love the concept of this story and maybe if it was less confusing and more believable then maybe I would have loved it as much as what I thought I would. The paranormal side I loved as I have never read a book that involves just Mermaids and Werewolves it was great to see a different side to these paranormal creatures. The romance side of the story was very much lacking in that department as it just didn't seem real and very much rushed it was like it was a second thought. I kind of liked the ending as it did leave me wanting to know what was going to happen in the next two books but I still didn't feel the love.
I think one of the main reasons why I didn't get on with this book was that I never really warmed to any of the characters as they was all annoying and for the most part selfish. There was a few that I kind of liked but still no love which is very rare for me as I almost always fall in love with one of the male characters but not this time.
Overall there was parts that I kind of enjoyed but for the most part I just couldn't get into it which is such a shame. I don't know if I will read the rest of the series because I would feel like it's a chore to continue but I would like to find out what happens.
Blurb:
Fifteen-year-old Serena is the youngest member of a dying race. The increasing acidity of the ocean is destroying her home, slowly eating away at the once thriving underwater landscape. But since the night of Serena’s birth, it is an outside force that most threatens their dwindling population. Werewolves, who once served as protectors for mermaids in the Kingdom of the Undine, now seek to eliminate all who dwell in the ocean — and Serena is about to find herself right in the middle of the deadly conflict.
Given the title of Werewolf Liaison, Serena is determined to make things right for her people. When she ventures to The Dry, she meets Liam, the werewolf with hazel eyes, and her whole world gets turned upside down. As Serena discovers the real history between werewolves and mermaids, she is left wondering who her true enemies are.
I received this book from netgalley ages ago and I have only now decided to read it and now I do realise why it had taken me so long.
This is a very pretty cover, I especially love the use of colours. I love that it is also in keeping with the story and that I know what it's about.
It took me such a long time to get into this book as nothing much was happening and the things that did happen left me feeling bored. It wasn't until over half way through when I got into this book but even then it was a continuous love there was still times that left me feeling bored. I really do love the concept of this story and maybe if it was less confusing and more believable then maybe I would have loved it as much as what I thought I would. The paranormal side I loved as I have never read a book that involves just Mermaids and Werewolves it was great to see a different side to these paranormal creatures. The romance side of the story was very much lacking in that department as it just didn't seem real and very much rushed it was like it was a second thought. I kind of liked the ending as it did leave me wanting to know what was going to happen in the next two books but I still didn't feel the love.
I think one of the main reasons why I didn't get on with this book was that I never really warmed to any of the characters as they was all annoying and for the most part selfish. There was a few that I kind of liked but still no love which is very rare for me as I almost always fall in love with one of the male characters but not this time.
Overall there was parts that I kind of enjoyed but for the most part I just couldn't get into it which is such a shame. I don't know if I will read the rest of the series because I would feel like it's a chore to continue but I would like to find out what happens.
Posted by
Kate @ Kates Book Life
at
3/12/2014 09:00:00 am
Book Review: The Rising (The Painted Maidens Trilogy, #1) by Terra Harmony
2014-03-12T09:00:00Z
Kate @ Kates Book Life
2.5/5 Rating|Book Review|earc|Paranormal Romance|Patchwork Press|Terra Harmony|YA|
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11 March 2014
Book Review: Don't Look Back by Jennifer L. Armentrout
Format: Paperback (Review)
Publishers: Hodder
Published: June 2014
Pages: 368
Genre: Young Adult, Romance, Thriller, Mystery
Main Characters: Sam, Carson
Date Read: 1st March - 6th March 2014
Rating Given:
I am so thankful to Hodder for sending me a copy of this book for review as I loved every minute of it.
When I first saw that us in the UK have a different cover to America I was gutted as I loved the American version. It wasn't until I read the book that I felt ok with the cover as it is in keeping with the book so much so it looks like it could be a part of a scene in the book.
This book was such a compelling read that even when I flicked to the last page to see what happened (yes I do that) I still thought it was someone else who hurt Sam I was that drawn into it. I haven't read many thriller genres but the couple that I have (including this one) I have loved I should really try more thrillers and I haven't read any of Jennifer's books that wasn't paranormal and I still loved it. I loved everything about this book the way in which we got learn everything the moment Sam learnt something new. I loved all the twists and turns that you will never see coming especially when you find out who did it. Even though there wasn't a huge focus on the romance side but what we did have was so sweet and I just wanted them to be together from the moment they was in the same space. It was great to see that it was also about learning who your true friends are which I thought was a great addition. I felt the ending was perfect in the way it wrapped things up but then still made it believable in the way that not everything was perfect in her life.
I loved most of the characters although not all of them was good. Sam was a great character but she wasn't always that way as before her accident she was completely different and it just goes to show what you can do differently if you had another chance. I loved that you never really know if she is a sane person yet you feel so sorry for her. I also liked that even when things got difficult she never gave up. I absolutely loved Carson he was so understanding and very forgiving and for most part so sweet. Her brother Scott was definitely one of my favourite characters as he was so funny but he also had a caring side and he always looked out for Sammy just like Carson. There was a lot of mean girls in this story who wasn't very nice but that was how Sam was before everything had happened to her. I really didn't like Del he was so annoying and you just know he was lying about his relationship.
Overall if you love Pretty Little Liars this one is for you as it is surrounded in mystery that you will never know what to think.
Blurb:
What if you had the chance to start again...but only if you promised never to look back? Samantha is popular, rich, and seemed to have it all...until the night she and her best 'frenemy' Cassie disappeared and only Sammy resurfaced, with no recollection of who she is or what happened. Sammy's a stranger in her own life - a life she no longer wants any part of. Losing her memory is a chance to start again. Then Sammy begins receiving mysterious notes warning her about that night, urging her to not look back. But she can't let it go. As she starts poking around in her past she begins to remember...and something sinister begins to surface.
I am so thankful to Hodder for sending me a copy of this book for review as I loved every minute of it.
When I first saw that us in the UK have a different cover to America I was gutted as I loved the American version. It wasn't until I read the book that I felt ok with the cover as it is in keeping with the book so much so it looks like it could be a part of a scene in the book.
This book was such a compelling read that even when I flicked to the last page to see what happened (yes I do that) I still thought it was someone else who hurt Sam I was that drawn into it. I haven't read many thriller genres but the couple that I have (including this one) I have loved I should really try more thrillers and I haven't read any of Jennifer's books that wasn't paranormal and I still loved it. I loved everything about this book the way in which we got learn everything the moment Sam learnt something new. I loved all the twists and turns that you will never see coming especially when you find out who did it. Even though there wasn't a huge focus on the romance side but what we did have was so sweet and I just wanted them to be together from the moment they was in the same space. It was great to see that it was also about learning who your true friends are which I thought was a great addition. I felt the ending was perfect in the way it wrapped things up but then still made it believable in the way that not everything was perfect in her life.
I loved most of the characters although not all of them was good. Sam was a great character but she wasn't always that way as before her accident she was completely different and it just goes to show what you can do differently if you had another chance. I loved that you never really know if she is a sane person yet you feel so sorry for her. I also liked that even when things got difficult she never gave up. I absolutely loved Carson he was so understanding and very forgiving and for most part so sweet. Her brother Scott was definitely one of my favourite characters as he was so funny but he also had a caring side and he always looked out for Sammy just like Carson. There was a lot of mean girls in this story who wasn't very nice but that was how Sam was before everything had happened to her. I really didn't like Del he was so annoying and you just know he was lying about his relationship.
Overall if you love Pretty Little Liars this one is for you as it is surrounded in mystery that you will never know what to think.
Posted by
Kate @ Kates Book Life
at
3/11/2014 03:02:00 pm
Book Review: Don't Look Back by Jennifer L. Armentrout
2014-03-11T15:02:00Z
Kate @ Kates Book Life
5/5 Rating|arc|Book Review|Hodder|Jennifer L. Armentrout|Romance|Thriller|YA|
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9 March 2014
Showcase Sunday #78
Showcase Sunday is a 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.
Posted by
Kate @ Kates Book Life
at
3/09/2014 08:30:00 am
Showcase Sunday #78
2014-03-09T08:30:00Z
Kate @ Kates Book Life
Allison Rushby|Barbara Dunlop|C.L. Stone|E.I. Todd|J.K. Rock|Jessie Evans|Marie Rutkoski|Rachel Higginson|Sarra Manning|Showcase Sunday|
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5 March 2014
Waiting on Wednesday #21
"Waiting On" Wednesday is a weekly event, hosted by Breaking the Spine, that spotlights upcoming releases that we're eagerly anticipating.
Here's this week's book I can't wait for...
I have read a few books by Jeaniene Frost and everyone I have loved so I'm hoping that this one is no different. I think I have heard that it is going to be a New Adult book which is another reason to be looking forward for this one as at the minute I am loving NA.
What's your WOW?
The Beautiful Ashes (Broken Destiny, #1)
by Jeaniene Frost
Expected Publication: 26th August 2014
Blurb:
In a world of shadows, anything is possible. Except escaping your fate.
Ever since she was a child, Ivy has been gripped by visions of strange realms just beyond her own. But when her sister goes missing, Ivy discovers the truth is far worse—her hallucinations are real, and her sister is trapped in a parallel realm. And the one person who believes her is the dangerously attractive guy who's bound by an ancient legacy to betray her.
Adrian might have turned his back on those who raised him, but that doesn't mean he can change his fate…no matter how strong a pull he feels toward Ivy. Together they search for the powerful relic that can save her sister, but Adrian knows what Ivy doesn't: that every step brings Ivy closer to the truth about her own destiny, and a war that could doom the world. Sooner or later, it will be Ivy on one side and Adrian on the other. And nothing but ashes in between…
I have read a few books by Jeaniene Frost and everyone I have loved so I'm hoping that this one is no different. I think I have heard that it is going to be a New Adult book which is another reason to be looking forward for this one as at the minute I am loving NA.
What's your WOW?
Posted by
Kate @ Kates Book Life
at
3/05/2014 02:38:00 pm
Waiting on Wednesday #21
2014-03-05T14:38:00Z
Kate @ Kates Book Life
Jeaniene Frost|W.O.W|
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4 March 2014
Book Review: Shatter Me (Shatter Me, #1) by Tahereh Mafi
Format: Paperback
Publishers: Harper
Published: 15th November 2011
Pages: 338
Genre: Young Adult, Romance, Dystopia
Main Characters: Juliette, Adam,Warner
Date Read: 23rd February - 28th February 2014
Rating Given:
I can't remember getting this book I just know that I have had it on my book shelf for such a long time now, I wish I had never taken so long to read it as I loved it. Although with taking awhile I can now buy the books to finish the series.
My copy is the old international copy which I am a bit gutted about as now the rest of my series won't match. I do like both versions of the cover but I'm not sure which is my favourite as it changes every month. I love the use of colour in this cover as I am a sucker for black and white also what you don't see in the picture is that it has a metallic finish to it making it shiny.
When I first started this book I wasn't sure I was going to like it and that wasn't because of me not liking the story it was mainly to do with the style of writing. In the blurb is how it is written with the strike through's which was very hard not to discard them as they was important to how she was actually feeling but as soon as I got used to that it was easy to read. I loved the slow build up of what was happening which doesn't always happen for me but I was addicted to this book from start to finish even when there wasn't much going on in the beginning. The romance side of the story was also a slow build up but again I loved it and kept thinking when they was going to realise how they felt. There wasn't any major cliff hangers which was good as this book felt like a build up for what is coming next which has got me very excited to find out.
I loved most of the characters and the characters that I didn't like was ones that wasn't actually in the book but we heard a lot about them. Juliette was a great character although at first I thought she was going to be a very weak person but the more the book went on the more she grew into herself. What I liked was that for most part of the book we didn't even know what she looked like and I didn't even realise. I did really like Adam as he seemed sweet, caring and understanding but he felt a little too good to be true. Even though Warner came across as the bad guy I still seemed to really like him as there was some things that made me think about why he is the way he is and he honestly thinks he is doing a good thing. Kenji was one of my favourite characters as he was so funny and I love that in characters.
Overall once I got past the very different writing style I fell in love with the world that Tahereh Mafi created.
Blurb:I have a curse.I have a gift.I'm a monster.I'm more than human.My touch is lethal.My touch is power.I am their weapon.I will fight back.
No one knows why Juliette's touch is fatal, but The Reestablishment has plans for her. Plans to use her as a weapon.But Juliette has plans of her own. After a lifetime without freedom, she's finally discovering a strength to fight back for the very first time—and to find a future with the one boy she thought she'd lost forever.
I can't remember getting this book I just know that I have had it on my book shelf for such a long time now, I wish I had never taken so long to read it as I loved it. Although with taking awhile I can now buy the books to finish the series.
My copy is the old international copy which I am a bit gutted about as now the rest of my series won't match. I do like both versions of the cover but I'm not sure which is my favourite as it changes every month. I love the use of colour in this cover as I am a sucker for black and white also what you don't see in the picture is that it has a metallic finish to it making it shiny.
When I first started this book I wasn't sure I was going to like it and that wasn't because of me not liking the story it was mainly to do with the style of writing. In the blurb is how it is written with the strike through's which was very hard not to discard them as they was important to how she was actually feeling but as soon as I got used to that it was easy to read. I loved the slow build up of what was happening which doesn't always happen for me but I was addicted to this book from start to finish even when there wasn't much going on in the beginning. The romance side of the story was also a slow build up but again I loved it and kept thinking when they was going to realise how they felt. There wasn't any major cliff hangers which was good as this book felt like a build up for what is coming next which has got me very excited to find out.
I loved most of the characters and the characters that I didn't like was ones that wasn't actually in the book but we heard a lot about them. Juliette was a great character although at first I thought she was going to be a very weak person but the more the book went on the more she grew into herself. What I liked was that for most part of the book we didn't even know what she looked like and I didn't even realise. I did really like Adam as he seemed sweet, caring and understanding but he felt a little too good to be true. Even though Warner came across as the bad guy I still seemed to really like him as there was some things that made me think about why he is the way he is and he honestly thinks he is doing a good thing. Kenji was one of my favourite characters as he was so funny and I love that in characters.
Overall once I got past the very different writing style I fell in love with the world that Tahereh Mafi created.
Posted by
Kate @ Kates Book Life
at
3/04/2014 03:13:00 pm
Book Review: Shatter Me (Shatter Me, #1) by Tahereh Mafi
2014-03-04T15:13:00Z
Kate @ Kates Book Life
5/5 Rating|Book Review|Dystopian|Harper Collins|Romance|Tahereh Mefi|YA|
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3 March 2014
BOTM #29
Listing all the books that I read during February I was surprised by how many I read. It's been a mixed bag in February as I have read some amazing books but also a few that I wasn't a huge fan of.
Here's the books that I read in February:
Here's the books that I read in February:
- Once Upon a Masquerade by Tamara Hughes - 2/5
- Hourglass (Hourglass, #1) by Myra McEntire - 4.5/5
- Shattered Promises (Shattered Promises, #1) by Jessica Sorensen - 2/5
- Smokin' Hot by Lynn LaFleur - 3/5
- Crazy Stupid Sex by Maisey Yates - 3/5
- Breathe (Sea Breeze, #1) by Abbi Glines - 5/5
- Misbehaving by Tiffany Reisz - 4/5
- Switched by Cassie Mae - 5/5
- Her Valentine Fantasy by Nancy Warren - 2.5/5
- Incarnate (Newsoul, #1) by Jodi Meadows - 4.5/5
- 10 Ways to Handle the Best Man by Heidi Rice - 2/5
- Fall From Grace (Mad World, #1) by Christine Zolendz - 4.5/5
- Shatter Me (Shatter Me, #1) by Tahereh Mafi - 5/5
And the book of the month goes to...
This was a hard one to choose and at one point I was thinking of making it a three way tie with my 5/5 books, but once I thought about it it was this one that I couldn't think of any negative thoughts. The other two books there was a tiny part that I could say I didn't like but not this one.
Posted by
Kate @ Kates Book Life
at
3/03/2014 08:30:00 am
BOTM #29
2014-03-03T08:30:00Z
Kate @ Kates Book Life
Abbi Glines|BOTM|Cassie Mae|Christine Zolendz|Jessica Sorensen|Jodi Meadows|Myra McEntire|Tahereh Mefi|Tamara Hughes|
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2 March 2014
Showcase Sunday #77
Showcase Sunday is a 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 images to take you to Goodreads.
Physical Books
Kindle Book Bought
Physical Books
A trip to The Works and I got these three for £5! I have been after Playing With Fire for ages so as my beady eyes spotted it I just had to find another two books.
Kindle Book Bought
I had some Amazon Gift Card money to spend and after enjoying the first in this series Fall For Grace I just had to get this one.
Kindle Books for Review
Posted by
Kate @ Kates Book Life
at
3/02/2014 08:30:00 am
Showcase Sunday #77
2014-03-02T08:30:00Z
Kate @ Kates Book Life
A.J. Pine|Christine Zolendz|Deanna Chase|Gena Showalter|Jessica Shirvington|Jules Barnard|K.A.Linde|Kristina Mathews|R.J. Anderson|Showcase Sunday|
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