Book Review: Shut Out by Kody Kepliner

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Format: Audiobook

Publishers: Brilliance Audio

Published: 24th August 2011

Pages: N/A

Genre: YA, Contemporary Romance

Main Characters: Lissa, Cash

Date Listened: 17th December - 22nd December 2013

Rating Given:

 

Blurb:

Most high school sports teams have rivalries with other schools. At Hamilton High, it's a civil war: the football team versus the soccer team. And for her part, Lissa is sick of it. Her quarterback boyfriend, Randy, is always ditching her to go pick a fight with the soccer team or to prank their locker room. And on three separate occasions Randy's car gas been egged while he and Lissa were inside, making out. She is done competing with a bunch of sweaty boys for her own boyfriend's attention.

Lissa decides to end the rivalry once and for all: she and the other players' girlfriends go on a hookup strike. The boys won't get any action from them until the football and soccer teams make peace. What they don't count on is a new sort of rivalry: an impossible girls-against-boys showdown that hinges on who will cave to their libidos first. And Lissa never sees her own sexual tension with the leader of the boys, Cash Sterling, coming.

Inspired by Aristophanes' play Lysistrata, critically acclaimed author of The Duff (Designated Ugly Fat Friend) Kody Keplinger adds her own trademark humor in this fresh take on modern teenage romance, rivalry and sexuality.

I have been after this book for ages and never been able to get it so when I did a free trial for a audiobook from Audioble and found it I jumped at the chance to get it.

 

I kind of like this cover as its very much in keeping with the story which is always a plus for me. It was also what got me interested in the book.

 

This was a new kind of book for me which I did find that at the beginning I wasn't sure I was going to like it as there was a few annoying things that happened but once I got over those I found that I was addicted to the story and couldn't wait to find out what was going to happen next. What I would say is that this book would be more for the older YA as there is a lot of sex talk and a bit of swearing but (I didn't mind this as I am past the YA) but I found the different girls take on sex very interesting. I loved the girls verses boys and I did find myself rooting for the girls although there was a time when I was on the boys side especially towards the end. I never knew that this was a retelling until I read the blurb recently but I haven't read or even heard of Lysistrata until I listened to this book. There was quite a lot of times that this had me laughing out loud as some of the tales and the situations was hilarious. By the end of this book I was very much invested with the story and the characters.

 

Quite a lot of these characters I found where very childish but for most of them they really did seem to grow up throughout the book. Lissa changed a lot throughout this book some in a good way but then others not so good but by the end I really felt for her and wanted everything to work out for her. I never really liked Randy especially after he does something unforgiveable which I hadn't even expected him to do. Cash I loved throughout the book he seemed to be the most grown up out of all of the characters. I really liked most of the side characters as they where funny especially Chloe.

 

Overall it was hard to get into but once I did get into it I loved it and now I need to read more from this author! 

Book Review: The Kiss Before Christmas by Sophie Pembroke

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Format: earc

Publishers: Harper Impulse

Published: 19th December 2013

Pages: 108

Genre: Adult, Contemporary Romance

Main Characters: Dory, Lucas

Date Read: 19th December - 22nd December 2013

Rating Given:

 

The Blurb:

An English Girl in New York

As the snow starts to fall on Manhattan, PA Dory Mackenzie is a long way from home, far from the comforts and cheer of her cozy family Christmases back in Liverpool.

So when her boss Tyler Alexander offers to pay her pricey ticket home for New Year, Dory just can’t say no… even if she has to pretend to be his girlfriend for the holidays!

Tyler may be hiding the real reason he needs a girlfriend-of-convenience but that’s the least of Dory’s worries when she’s up against the disapproval of his high society mother, and the suspicions of his gorgeous older brother Lucas, the black sheep of the family.

There’s no fooling Lucas, and it’s not just the truth he wants to get closer to… So before the bells have even rung out for Christmas day, Dory finds herself caught up in the Alexander family’s dramas – and sharing more than just a few kisses under the mistletoe!

Another enjoyable Christmas read thanks to Netgalley and Harper Impulse!

 I kind of like the cover as it is cute and kind of Christmassy, however it's another one of those covers that just don't fit into the actual story.

This book didn't start of particularly great but it was enjoyable enough for me to continue and I'm glad I did as it got a lot better. I loved that it was a quick read as I always love those but sometimes with the short books we don't get enough background information which I felt that was the case occasionally. There was times when some of the story just didn't seem believable but by the end I didn't seem to care. I felt the ending was a bit rushed and if the story was longer then maybe it would have rated an even higher review.

There was some characters that I thought where great and others that I just couldn't stand but I think that was the point of the story. Dory was a one of those characters that I liked she was a strong person especially with some of the things she had to deal with. Lucas was the other character that I liked as he is a very smart, funny and observant. The rest of the characters I didn't like they was just selfish and only cared about how people would perceive them.

Overall a bit of a slow start but by the end I liked it.

 

Book Review: Holly & Ivey by Megan Kelly

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Format: earc

Publishers: MK Books

Published: 29th November 2012

Pages: 155

Genre: Adult, Contemporary Romance

Main Characters: Holly, Luke

Date Read: 17th December - 19th December 2013

Rating Given:

 

 

The Blurb:

Holly MacDonald rushes to the town she left as a child to prevent her friend from marrying an unfaithful groom. Her old buddy, Luke Ivey, is the best man who intends to stop her interference.
She's no longer his tomboy pal, and he's no longer her nerdy sidekick. They fall for each other despite their different views on the wedding and their living four hours apart. She's a city girl and he's pure country.

Another Christmas read from Netgalley that I have read this December and it's another read that I very much enjoyed reading.

I'm not a huge fan of the cover as to me it's a bit cheesy looking which is saying something when I say that as I do love a bit of cheese for Christmas.

 

I loved this book from the moment it started as it was such a cute and fun read. I loved the build up of the romance and the chemistry between Holly and Luke was a scorcher! The Christmas part was cute but I didn't feel like that was the main focus of the story which I didn't mind. It was a short read which for the most part it didn't matter as we still got to the hidden depths of the story that I love in a full length novel. The only thing that let the book down was the ending which some of things got cleared up but there was one part of the story that never really got settled which was such a shame as otherwise it would have been another five star Christmas read.

 

I loved most of the characters but there was one that I wasn't a fan of but I don't think anybody would be as he was just a jerk. Luke was a great male character that I loved his relationship with not only Holly but his brother. Holly was another great character and was a very loyal friend which was lovely to see and again her relationship between Luke's brother was great. Micah is Luke's brother and for the most part I felt he stole the show a bit as he was such a funny character and I would love to see him get his own book.

 

Overall this was a quick, cute and a fun read I just wished that the ending would have been extended a bit more.

Book Review: Kissing Her Scrooge by Kinley Cade

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Format: earc

Publishers: Carina Press

Published: 5th December 2013

Pages: 96

Genre: Adult, Contemporary Romance

Main Characters: Hannah, Griff

Date Read: 12th December - 13th December 2013

Rating Given:

 

The Blurb:

Every Christmas, Hannah Jones makes it her mission to give her hometown the perfect pageant. Even malfunctioning inflatable Santas and lost students can't stop the self-proclaimed Miss Holiday. But the teacher may have met her mismatch in sexy but antisocial tree farmer Griff Green. Hannah's been lusting after her new neighbor for months—and she's determined to melt his heart by being naughty as well as nice…

He may sell trees, but Griff doesn't do Christmas. He's known as the town humbug—and he likes it that way. Which is why he's been avoiding Hannah, despite the sexy visions of her that have been dancing through his head. When a surprise visit leads to a passionate kiss, he can't deny the attraction any longer.

When Hannah discovers Griff isn't the Scrooge he pretends to be—and she exposes his secret to the whole town—it may take a holiday miracle for their budding relationship to survive into the new year.

This will be my fifth Christmas read from Netgalley but in this case so far it would have to be my least favourite read.

This is a similar cover to my previous two reads and just like them this would have nothing to do with the story.

This is one of the shorter books that I have read but this book felt a lot longer to read than all the other books put together. The romance side of the story wasn't believable at all I just didn't get the connection, although there was a couple of times when I thought it was sweet but not enough for me. I know they say opposites attract but in this case I just don't see them having a future they just didn't seem like a right fit. I also thought everything seemed a bit too rushed which normally I don't mind but for some reason I just couldn't see it. I felt like it was a little juvenile and if it wasn't for the content I would say it was a YA. There was times when I felt like I was going to get swept away with the whole story but it wasn't meant to be.

I wasn't a huge fan of the characters especially Hannah as she was just too childish and I could just imagine her stopping her feet if she didn't get her own way. Griff I'm still not sure as sometimes I liked him but not like I usually like the male characters.

Overall not the best book in the world but there was occasional glimmers.

Book Review: A Christmas for Carrie by Alison Packard

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Format: earc

Publishers: Carina Press

Published: 5th December 2013

Pages: 106

Genre: Adult, Contemporary Romance

Main Characters: Carrie, Nick

Date Read: 11th December - 12th December 2013

Rating Given:

 

The Blurb:

The very thought of Christmas is enough to darken Carrie Jones's day. "Jingle Bells" and eggnog? Not for this girl; not anymore. But running into a handsome old crush might make this year different…

Home to celebrate with his parents, Nick Johnson loves the holidays and all that comes with them, from trips to the tree lot to the very last strand of tinsel. Stunned to bump into Carrie while on a coffee run, he realizes that his former study buddy has grown into a drop-dead-gorgeous woman. One with whom he'd like to share all the joys—and hidden pleasures—of the season.

Spending time with Nick and his warm, close-knit family, Carrie can't help but feel the very beginnings of that elusive Christmas spirit. She's falling in love with all of them...until an unexpected visitor arrives. It will take putting her trust in Nick—and all her newfound happiness—to overcome the ghosts of Christmases past.

Another Christmas read from Netgalley and this one is the best that I have read so far!

I do like the cover as it's Christmasy and cute but the cover has nothing to do with the story which is always a pet hate of mine.

Forget one of my favourite Christmas reads this is one of my favourite reads of the whole year! I loved this book from start to finish it had everything I love in a Christmas Romance book: it was cute, a little bit cheesy (but not too cheesy), fun and a dark edge to it. I would have loved for this book to have been even longer as I just didn't want to say goodbye to Nick and Carrie, they were great together with sizzling chemistry and just great banter between them both. This is one book I will have to read again and maybe not just next Christmas!

Just like the story I fell in love with the characters from the moment I started the book. Even though Carrie didn't like Christmas I still liked her and knew there would be an explanation although the one we got was not what I was expecting. Once we found out about Carrie there was an understanding and a need for her to be able to enjoy Christmas. What can I say about Nick only that I love him he is by far one of my favourite male characters and I love how festive he is and I especially enjoyed the way he was with his family.

Overall I adore this book and I just wish it was either longer or a part of a series just so I can see Nick again. I highly recommend this book and now I just need to read more from Alison Packard to see if it was a one off.

 

Book Review: Christmas Curveball by Shari Mikels

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Format: earc

Publishers: Carina Press

Published: 5th December 2013

Pages: 111

Genre: Adult, Contemporary Romance

Main Characters: Rachel, Kevin

Date Read: 9th December - 10th December 2013

Rating Given:

 

The Blurb:

When newly-single Rachel Tanner finds out that pro pitcher Kevin Ganlin has come home to recover from an injury, her heart skips a beat. She’s loved him from afar since her preteen years, never bold enough to let him know.

Kevin is less than thrilled when Rachel shows up at his doorstep. She’s his best friend’s little sister and officially off limits. Besides, he’s staring early retirement in the face, a one-man pity-party with no interest in anything more serious than quick flings on the road. Until an icy mishap lands Rachel cozied up on his sofa, irresistible in his practice sweats.

A little game of Truth or Truth reveals much more than Rachel had ever dared to hope and leads to a midnight make-out session that leaves them both panting. But can she trust that he’s truly changed his ways? This Christmas, Kevin will do whatever it takes to make Rachel understand she’s the only one for him.

Yup this is another Christmas read that I just had to have as it sounded like it would be a good Christmas read I just didn't realise how much I would enjoy it.

I do like the cover as it has the Christmas feel to it just like the story itself. I wouldn't say it's that in keeping with the story but in this case I'm not that bothered.

As soon as I started this book I just knew I was going to fall in love with it as it was just too cute not too. Yes this is a little bit cheesy but I do love a bit of cheese in my Christmas reads. It may have been a short book but it didn't stop me from getting swept away with it. This book was more set at around the Christmas time but I didn't feel like it took centre stage but I didn't mind because the romance made up for what I felt lacking in that department. I wish that this was a longer book as just didn't want to let go of the story or the characters.

The characters I absolutely loved even the side characters where a great addition. Rachel was a great female character who had some great willpower! Kevin was amzing I just fell in love with from the moment we met him and I could understand why Rachel loved him so much. There chemistry sizzled and just their interaction with one another made me laugh and swoon. I also loved Rachel's brother he was so funny I just wished he was in the book a bit more.

Overall I adored this book it had everything you want in a Christmas book, I highly recommend this book!

 

Book Review: A Vampire's Christmas Carol by Cynthia Eden

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Format: earc

Publishers: Indie

Published: 11th November 2013

Pages: 72

Genre: Adult, Paranormal Romance

Main Characters: Ben, Simone

Date Read: 8th December - 9th December 2013

Rating Given:

 

The Blurb:

This holiday season has bite.
Ben Prescott hates Christmas—he’s a vampire, and to him, there’s certainly nothing jolly about the holiday season. While the humans are running around being merry, he’s hunting in the shadows. Ben plans to spend the holidays his way…by stalking deadly prey.
But fate has other plans for Ben.

Three visitors are coming Ben’s way…A demon who will force Ben to face his past, a ghost who will show Ben the present he could have, and a shifter who will reveal the darkness that waits in Ben’s future. Unless Ben can change his ways, he may just turn into a real monster, one who can’t be saved by anyone or anything.

’Tis the season…to be undead.

Ben’s redemption rests in the hands of the one woman he loved and lost—Simone Laurent. If Ben is going to have a chance at being more than just the beast in the darkness, he has to prove himself to the lovely Simone. A very hard task, considering that, once upon a Christmas Eve, Simone died in Ben’s arms…

Another Christmas read thanks to Netgalley. This book is a bit of a retelling of A Christmas Carol and it was a good one.

 

 I really like the cover and was most of the reason my I wanted to read it as it just drew me in. I love the use of black and white yet you can still tell there's snow. I think it is also a little in keeping with the actual story which is always a plus for me.

 

When I first started to read it I wasn't too sure I was going to like it but the more things we found out about Ben the more it drew me into the world that Eden created. I loved the spin on her version of A Christmas Carol especially with all the paranormal elements it was great to see it in this way. It was a very short read which I felt made the story a bit rushed I would have loved to have had a bit more content. Although I really enjoyed it there was just something that stopped me being eager to read just one more chapter. I kind of liked the bit of romance that was in there but I would have loved a bit more. There was a few things that was too unbelievable for me to love this book.

 

With the characters I don't feel like we got to know them as well as we would have if it was a full length novel which was a shame as I think that they could have been great characters. I'm not going to tell you any more about the lead characters as I don't want to give anything away.

 

Overall it was a quick and enjoyable read with a few surprises thrown in for good measure I just wish it was a full length novel.

Book Review: Ripped by Sarah Morgan

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Format: e-arc

Publishers: Harlequin: Cosmo Red Hot Reads

Published: 1st December 2013

Pages: Unknown

Genre: Adult, Romance, 18+ age group

Main Characters: Hayley, Nico

Date Read: 18th November 2013

Rating Given:

 

Blurb:

"Wardrobe malfunction" doesn't begin to cover it.

With a rip louder than the "I dos," Hayley's hideous bile-yellow bridesmaid dress explodes. She's always had enviable curves, but nearly naked wasn't quite the look she'd been going for at her ex's wedding.

She's rushed from the altar under the best man's designer tux jacket. Hayley's expecting a blast of icy disapproval from sexy, sophisticated Niccolò Rossi—his usual reaction to anything she does. What she gets is a kiss that nearly melts what's left of her polyester nightmare gown.

It's impossible on a million levels. Exuberant engineer Hayley and buttoned-up lawyer Nico have never seen eye to eye—but skin to skin? Oh, mio… So when Nico shows up at her flat on Christmas Day to give her a fabulous gift—himself—Hayley's delighted to do the unwrapping. But it's just a holiday fling. By New Year's Day, she'll come back to her senses…unless Nico's sensual skills tear away all her resolve.

I stumbled across this on Netgalley and though it sounded like a fun read so thought I would give it a try but not expecting to love it as much as I did.

I do like the composition of the cover which I feel makes it stand out but what I love the most is the red tie as it really does stand out.

When I fist started this book it was a bit late at night so I thought I would just read a little bit just to see if I even liked it but then just over an hour later I had finished it, yes it is a short book but it was down to the content that had me enthralled with the book. There was quite a lot of times when I was laughing out loud which I really enjoyed as I haven't read many books that are very humorous like this one was. The romance side of the story did seem a bit out of the blue but I didn't mind as you could feel the chemistry flying off the pages. One of the best novellas I have read in a long time so glad I gave it a try.

At first I wasn't sure about Hayley as who in there right mind would be a bridesmaid for an ex-boyfriend she just didn't seem right but the more we get to know her the more her humour comes out making her a great character. Nico I loved he is like all those alpha male characters we've met before but I don't care as I was really drawn to him. There was a couple of other side characters but they wasn't in it much it was mainly about these two characters and I loved them.

Overall it was a fab and fun read that I would recommend to anyone over the age of 18.

 

Entangled Embrace Pre-launch Blog Tour: Book Review: Definitely, Maybe in Love by Ophelia London

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Format: Kindle

Publishers: Entangled: Embrace Publishing

Published: 28th October 2013

Pages: 334

Genre: New Adult, Modern Day Re-Telling, Contemporary Romance

Main Characters: Spring, Henry

Date Read: 7th September - 10th October 2013

Rating Given:

 

Blurb from Publishers:

Her theory of attraction is about to get a new angle. 

Spring Honeycutt wants two things: to ace her sustainable living thesis and to save the environment. Both seem hopelessly unobtainable until her college professor suggests that with a new angle, her paper could be published. Spring swears she’ll do whatever it takes to ensure that happens. 

“Whatever it takes,” however, means forming a partnership with the very hot, very privileged, very conceited Henry Knightly. 

Henry is Spring's only hope at publication, but he's also the über-rich son of a land developer and cash-strapped Spring’s polar opposite. Too bad she can't

help being attracted to the way he pushes her buttons, both politically and physically.  As they work on her thesis, Spring finds there's more to Henry than his old money and argyle sweaters…but can she drop the loud-and-proud act long enough to let him in? Suddenly, choosing between what she wants and what she needs puts Spring at odds with everything she believes in. 

Definitely, Maybe in Love is a modern take on Pride and Prejudice that proves true love is worth risking a little pride. 

 This is another book that I was asked if I wanted to review for the pre-launch of Entangled Embrace and to be honest I never read the blurb I just thought the title sounded good and the cover also looked good. So imagine my delight when I found it was a modern re-telling of Pride and Prejudice which is my all time favourite TV show (Colin Firth as Mr Darcy) and I wasn't let down!

I did really love this cover as it looked like it was romantic and I loved the different font for the title. I also loved that the cover was in black and white which is always a love of mine and then the hint of colour in the title really does stand out. The only things is when reading the book I found that the cover doesn't really tie in with the story which was a let down for me, however I still like it.

As soon as I started this book I just feel in love with it and the only negative thing I can think of is that it wasn't longer and that it's a stand alone I just need more of this story it was so beautifully written. There was a few parts of the story that I remembered happening from Pride and Prejudice but with the modern twist it just made it feel all the more believable. The chemistry between Henry and Spring was undeniable they even sizzled when they argued (which was a lot). This book is definitely one of my all time favourite books which I can't wait to get my hands on a finished copy as it's just too good not to!

The characters I absolutely loved they was just brilliant together and apart. Spring was a very strong female protagonist who had very strong views on how she views the world, then enter Henry who goes against everything she believes in. Henry was also a strong male but he definitely can show his softer side. There was a also a few side characters that where just as good including Mel who I didn't think I would like but the more I got to know her the more I understood why she was one of Spring's best friends. There was some villains of the story too which I didn't like but that's how we are supposed to feel about them as otherwise they wouldn't be the bad guys.

Overall I just love, love, loved this book and I highly recommend anyone to read it as I will bet that you would love it too!

 

Buy Links

Amazon |  Barnes and Noble

 

Author Bio

 

 

Ophelia London is the author of ABBY ROAD, the Perfect Kisses series including: PLAYING AT LOVE, SPEAKING OF LOVE, the upcoming "still working on the title" (Nov `13), and the new adultDEFINITELY, MAYBE IN LOVE (Oct 28th). She belongs to RWA and DARA.  

 

Author Links

Website | Twitter | Facebook | Goodreads

 

Entangled Embrace Pre-launch Blog Tour: Book Review: Hushed by Kelley York

Format: Kindle

Publisher: Entangled: Embrace

Published: 11th November 2013

Pages: 229

Genre: New Adult, Thriller, Romance

Date Read: 16th December 2011 - 21st December 2011

Rating Given:

 

Blurb from Publishers:

He’s loved her. Killed for her. Yet he may not be able to save her. 

Eighteen-year-old Archer couldn’t protect his best friend, Vivian, from what happened when they were kids. Since then, he’s never stopped trying to

shelter her from everything else. It doesn’t matter that Vivian only uses him when skipping from one toxic relationship to another. Archer is always there, reeled in and tossed out, waiting to be noticed.

Then Evan Bishop breezes into town with a warm smile and calming touch, and Archer can’t deny his attraction to him. Evan is the only person who keeps him around without a single string attached. And the harder Archer falls for Evan, the more he sees Vivian for the manipulative hot-mess she really is.

But Viv has her hooks in deep, and once she finds out Archer’s dark secret, she threatens to expose the truth if she doesn’t get what she wants. And what she wants is for him to end his relationship with Evan...permanently. 

I actually didn't realise that I had already read this book when looking through the books that Entangled: Embrace was wanting to review. So when I read the blurb I thought it sounded good and I asked for it which was accepted. What I am going to do is just update my review and post it again.

 

The book cover used this time was different (probably why I didn't get that I already read the book) and I have to admit that this one is far better. I love that it's dark and that the models are in the shadows as it definitely ties in better with the actual story.

When I first started Hushed I found myself thinking that I wasn't going to like it but I without noticing I wanted to find out what is going to happen next. I would just read one more chapter before I could stop so I obviously liked it more than what I actually thought I did. Hushed is a very dark and a bit of a twisted book and had me on the edge of my seat especially towards the end. I would have liked a bit more to the ending maybe a few years into the future just so you know if everything worked out.

 

2011 thoughts: After finishing it I do kind of feel a bit down as it was very dark I don't think it's one I could read again anytime soon as it was a bit depressing.

 

2013 thoughts: After going through my review I think I will actually read it again in the next couple of weeks!

Even though the main character Archer was a bit of a serial killer I found myself routing for him and trying to think of excuses to why he would do something like that you even end up forgiving him of being a killer. He was a deep character as a lot of the male characters in other books that I have read they seem a bit shallow but I didn't find that being the case with Archer. I loved Evan's character as he was so sweet and caring and you get the relationship between Evan and Archer which I like to see in books as sometimes you just don't get why a certain couple are together but that isn't the case for Evan and Archer. Vivian's character was a hard one because at the beginning you could kind of understand her a bit with going through what she had to go through but then by the end I just couldn't stand her. I think this would be because of us reading it from Archer's point of view we kind of go through his emotions so you kind of think like Archer.

Overall a dark, emotional roller coaster ride that leaves you wanting more.

 

Buy Links

Amazon | Barnes and Noble

 

Author Bio

 

Once upon a time, Kelley York was born in central California. And it's there she she still resides with her lovely wife, step-daughter, and an abundance of cats, while fantasizing about moving to England or Ireland. She has a fascination with bells and animals, is a lover of video games, Doctor Who, manga and anime, and likes to pretend she’s a decent photographer. Her life goal is to find a real unicorn. Or at least write about them.

Kelley is a sucker for dark fiction. She loves writing twisted characters, tragic happenings, and bittersweet endings that leave you wondering and crying. Character development takes center stage in her books because the bounds of a person's character and the workings of their mind are limitless.

Her first book, HUSHED, was released by Entangled Publishing in December 2011. Her second and third books, HOLLOWED and SUICIDE WATCH, were released in 2012, and her next Entangled book, MADE OF STARS, is slated for October 1st, 2013. 

 

Author Links

Website | Facebook | Twitter

 

Book Review: Obsession by Jennifer L. Armentrout

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Format: Kindle

Publishers:  Entangled Publishing, LLC (Covet)

Published:31st May 2013

Pages: 275

Genre: Adult, Paranormal Romance

Main Characters: Serena, Hunter

Date Read: 28th August - 5th September 2013

Rating Given:

 

Blurb from Goodreads:

This is a stand alone novel that is an adult spin-off of the Lux Series You do not need to read a Lux book to read Obsession and vice versa.

He’s arrogant, domineering, and... To. Die. For.

Hunter is a ruthless killer. And the Department of Defense has him firmly in their grasp, which usually doesn’t chafe too badly because he gets to kill bad guys. Most of the time he enjoys his job. That is, until he’s saddled with something he’s never had to do before: protect a human from his mortal enemy.

Serena Cross didn’t believe her best friend when she claimed to have seen the son of a powerful senator turn into something... unnatural. Who would? But then she witnesses her friend’s murder at the hands of what can only be an alien, thrusting her into a world that will kill to protect their secret.

Hunter stirs Serena’s temper and her lust despite their differences. Soon he’s doing the unthinkable—breaking the rules he’s lived by, going against the government to keep Serena safe. But are the aliens and the government the biggest threats to Serena’s life… or is it Hunter?

As soon as I saw that Jennifer L Armentrout was doing a spin off to the Lux series I obviously had to buy it and I'm glad I did as I very much enjoyed it.

 I'm not too sure with the cover as I do like it but I'm just not overly keen. I love the way Hunters eyes stand out just like they do in the book. I can definitely imagine the models are Hunter and Serena. I do love the colours used as it looks very understated.

As soon as I started this book I was hooked which I am a little surprised as I didn't think that the Arum would be easily liked with reading about them in the Lux series but that's what I did. I loved that there was loads of action from the get go and I never knew what was going to happen next very much on the edge of your seat kind of stuff happening. The romance side of the story I loved as the banter between Hunter and Serena was hilarious and the more the story went along the more the sparks went off. I also loved that we got a glimpse of Daemon in this book which definitely got me excited for Origin. The ending was good as again it got me needing to read Origin but it also made me want this book to be a series too.

I loved the new characters introduced to this world. Serena was a great female character she reminded me of a older version of Katy as she wouldn't take the way Hunter first treated her. I really did think it was going to be hard to like Hunter but after reading the book I fell in love with him and his humour! There was times when he was acting a bit of a jerk but he soon pulled himself around. For most of this book it was mainly these two characters but occasionally a couple of other characters would appear which for most part where a great addition to the book but some of them not so good. Some of the bad guys in this book you wouldn't believe but it just goes to show that there is always two sides to a story.

Overall I loved everything about this book with great chemistry and quite a bit of humour thrown in for good measure.

Mrs. Potter’s Book Publicity Services Presents:

A month long Blog Tour for:

GIRLS LOVE TRAVIS WALKER

By: Anne Pfeffer

Book Description:

To nineteen-year-old high school dropout Travis Walker, women are like snowflakes–each one different, but beautiful in her own way. He can charm any girl he meets, and yet down deep he fears he’ll always be a loser like his jailbird father. As the landlady threatens to evict him and his sick mother, Travis takes a job he hates and spends his evenings picking up girls at a nearby night spot. When he enlists in a teen program at the local fire station, he finds out he’s amazing at it. Then he meets the smoking hot Kat Summers, enlists Kat’s friend Zoey to help him woo her, and falls in love for the first time ever. But he keeps the details of his life secret. His girl will never love him back if she knows the truth about him….

 

Add it to your Goodreads TBR List

 

  Awards:

WINNER -- Third Place for Fiction 2013 Indie Reader Discovery Awards FINALIST-- New Fiction 2013 National Indie Excellence Awards

Reviews:

“ ….the title of this book had me expecting something very like a teen romance. While there is romance aplenty in this wonderful novel, Girls Love Travis Walker is far more than that…. “Little did I know that what I was about to read would have such a huge impact on me…. This book hit me right in the heart.” “I really loved Travis…. I cried and was scared with him.” “This book will make you fall in love for so many reasons…”

 

My Review:

Format: earc

Publishers: Indie

Published: 15th March 2013

Pages: 323

Genre: Contemporary Romance, YA

Main Characters: Travis

Date Read: 31at July - 12th August 2013

Rating Given:



I was asked if I wanted to join up on the blog tour for this book which I thought it sounded like my kind of book and I wasn't far wrong as it was an enjoyable read.

I'm not a fan of the cover it seems a bit cheesy for my liking but the setting feels like its a part of the story which I always like when that happens.

When I first started this book I actually wasn't sure I was going to like it as Travis seemed to be so full of himself and a bit annoying but the more I got into the story the more he became likeable therefore making the story likeable. I loved that this story wasn't just about him and which girl he was chasing but also it was about the love of a mother and son and what extents he would go to, to make sure she was safe. It was also about learning to love yourself because even though he comes across as though he loves himself I realised that that wasn't the case and he had some serious issues. The romance side of the story I wasn't actually expecting I thought it was going to be someone else he chased but that wasn't the case. I felt that the ending was a cute one but I would have liked a bit more of an ending that we actually got.

With the characters there was some annoying characters but for the most part there was hidden gems. Like I said earlier in my review Travis was one of those guys that I thought here we go again another annoying cocky male character but once we learn more about him and the things he has and had to deal with it's surprising how he could even walk around with a smile on his face. Towards the end I had fell in love with Travis Walker.

Overall it was a really enjoyable read I just wish it had started as good as it ended this is more of a grower read with a slow pace that as soon as it finds its feet it soon gains pace.

 

Purchase:

Amazon

Barnes&Noble

 

Author Bio:

Anne Pfeffer lives in Los Angeles, California. She likes to write, walk her dog, play poker, and work as a library volunteer at a local school. Her book Any Other Night has been named a Finalist in both the 2012 Indie Reader Discovery Awards and the 2013 National Indie Excellence Awards.

 

Author Links:

Facebook

Twitter @AnnePfeffer1

Website

Goodreads

 

Anne_Pfeffer To follow the other Blog Tour Stops, click on the photo below:

 

Blog Tour: Book Review: Now or Never by A. J. Bennett

Mrs. Potter’s Book Publicity Services Presents:

A Deluxe Blog Tour For:

NOW OR NEVER

By: A.J. Bennett

 

Book Description:

Twenty-one year old Grayson Alexander finally breaks away from an abusive relationship and finds herself free for the first time in three years. Determined to enjoy her new-found freedom, Grayson is intent on sticking with 'no strings attached' relationships—one-night stands, and steamy sex. But she didn't plan on Derrick. Her attraction to the sexy man in uniform quickly turns into an unhealthy relationship. They both try to resist the pull, but neither can stay away. When tragedy strikes, Grayson realizes it's now or never—walk away or make it work.

 

Add “Now or Never” to your Goodreads TBR list.

Purchase “Now or Never”:

Amazon

B&N

KOBO

 

My Review:

Format: earc

Published: 19th June 2013

Pages: 214

Genre: New Adult, Contemporary Romance

Main Characters: Grayson, Derrick

Date Read: 28th July - 4th August 2013

Rating Given:

 

 

I was invited to join up for the blog tour for Now or Never and with me going through a New Adult kick I joined myself up but it wasn't as good as what I thought it would be.

 

I feel that the book cover is a bit misleading to what the story is about but apart from that I really like the way that it is simple especially the simplicity of the colours they really work well together.

 

When I first started this book I thought it was really good and very interesting even if the subject matter isn't something I would normally like to read about, however, I felt like that part of the story was a bit glossed over and nothing much after that happened that I would have expected and I definitely wouldn't expect her to jump around to different men it just didn't very realistic. Even though I thought I didn't like it I found myself drawn into the story and I was always wondering what was going to happen next. The romance side of the story was very unbelievable and at times I didn't want the two main characters together, there was other guys that seemed nicer than him who I thought she should be with. There was some sweet and tender moments but these where far and few between. With the ending I'm not a 100% sure with but it did seem like a realistic ending which was the only realistic thing that happened.

 

The main characters I wasn't overly keen on. Grayson at first I thought was such a strong person especially since she had gone through what she did but the further I got into the book the more annoying she got, I could understand her loosing her self confidence but her having one night stands it just wouldn't happen. Derrick at times was a sweet character but for the most time her didn't seem that nice and nothing he said was believable to me or Grayson. There was other characters that was annoying but there was a few nice ones and I just wished they had a bigger part in the story.

 

Overall it wasn't the best book but it wasn't the worse as it was addictive it just could have done with being more believable and then it would have been a really interesting book.

 

Author Bio:

A.J. Bennett lives in Nashville, TN with her husband and bulldog. She's addicted to coffee, popcorn and books. Becoming an author has been a lifelong dream, and she's extremely excited about her debut novel Now or Never.

Author Links:

Facebook / Twitter / Website / Goodreads

 

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Book Review: Stay by Jennifer Silverwood

(Click image to take you to Goodreads)

Format: Kindle

Publishers: SilverWood Sketches

Published: 13th February 2013

Pages: 232

Genre: Paranormal Romance, New Adult,

Main Characters: Rona

Date Read: 1st July - 13th July 2013

Rating Given:

 

 

Blurb from Goodreads:

Sometimes, love isn’t as magical as people expect it to be…

Rona believes love is nothing more than a myth, a tale for little girls. As the oldest daughter, she knows duty and family honor as well as the difference between salt and cinnamon.

Until the immortal ruler of the seas appears from thin air and she is swept into a dark and dangerous affair. What was formerly myth soon becomes part of the everyday. And Rona believes when Seid tells her they will be together forever.

But forever is a long time and after she betrays him, what was supposed to be an eternity in paradise becomes an eternity in hell. Now she is cursed, unable to feel human emotions except through the couples she is led to save.

Two thousand years is an awfully long time to live alone. And the business of love saving isn’t what it used to be. By the twenty-first century, love has become an illusion as grandiose as magic and Rona’s ready to give up. Until the night she is seen by a human. Deep in the underbelly of the city that never sleeps, she recognizes him instantly. He may dress differently and have gained a few new scars, but she would recognize the face of her former lover in any lifetime.

Trouble is, he seems to have no memory of her and he and his ex-girlfriend are the ones whose true love she’s meant to save.
But when he starts to fall for her, she is forced to learn what it means to be human all over again.

Past and present come full circle in this tale of love, forgiveness and woe.

I received this book as a part of the Read It Review It over on Goodreads. It had taken a lot longer to get to this book than I wanted but now I'm glad that I did put it off because I wasn't a fan.

I really like the cover with all the colours and it does tie into the actual story which I always love. I do think that the title of the book should have been white so that it would stand out a bit more.

As soon as I started this book I knew I was going to have trouble getting into it. It was far too confusing as I just didn't understand what was going on and at times it contradicted itself. There was times when I thought that it was going to get better but it never lasted. I liked the Paranormal side of the story and I wish it was in it more. The romance in the story just didn't work for me as it wasn't believable.

There was times when I liked and hated the characters. Rona seemed ok to start with but with a few issues which I understood where she was coming from but other times I just wanted to smack her as she was annoying and never seemed to know what she wanted. Cain I actually liked at the beginning but then at the end I just didn't like him.

Overall I really didn't like it as it just didn't seem to flow well but there was times when it was ok.

To Stand Beside Her by B. Kristin McMichael

(Click image to take you to Goodreads)

Format: Kindle

Publishers: Indie

Published: 24th January 2013

Pages: 348

Genre: Romance, YA

Main Characters: Leila, Nalick

Date Read: 26th May - 13th June 2013

Rating Given:

 

Blurb from Goodreads:

To be the best courier in the world, eighteen-year-old Benét Leila follows three simple rules: always work alone, never stay in one place too long, and never fall in love. Too bad she didn't follow her own advice.

Leila is a courier. To the people she takes from, she is seen as a common thief; to the people she helps, she is a savior.

Nalick is your typical king. He's rich, powerful, and always assumed to be right. When Leila crosses paths with King Nalick, she finds herself trapped. In a rush to save her best friend Kay from a prison sentence for a crime Leila committed, Leila trades her hand in marriage in exchange for Kay’s freedom.

Tomboy Leila does not want to grow up, but in three months’ time, she will be married to King Nalick, if Nalick can keep his end of the bargain. First, Nalick must make Leila fall in love with him, a hard task since Leila is not ready to love again after losing her first love to a greedy king. Second, Nalick must keep her safe. He is not the only king trying to hold onto her. Leila has made many enemies over the years, and even more admirers that want her as a prize. Lastly, Nalick must convince Leila that ten years of love is better than a lifetime without. Unless Leila can trust her destiny, she might not reach her wedding day at all.

I asked to read this for review and I was really pleased that I was able to grab myself a copy, however I was also expecting it to be a New Adult book as it was a NA group on Goodreads I got it from, but, it was a YA so I was a bit disappointed about that.

I do like the cover especially the tones that have been used it gives the cover a striking effect. It did take me awhile to figure out what the significance was to the story but now writing the review I notice it and it does tie in with the story which I have always loved.

It did take me awhile to get this book read but it wasn't because of the book being bad in fact once getting over the not being a NA book I really enjoyed it, I just didn't have the time to read. There was times when I was about to read another chapter when I wouldn't want to read it but once I started reading it again I started enjoying it all over again. I loved the slow build up in the romance department and made it very believable. That was the only thing that was believable as I found that quite a lot of the story was a bit far fetched and that's coming from someone who loves fantasy but for most part they story just wasn't believable.

I really enjoyed the characters especially Nalick as he had the most change throughout the book which was really nice to see. Nalick started off being the King that everybody feared and he didn't seem that nice but the more we found out about him and his past I started to understand him and then when Leila came on the scene he became even more likable. Leila seemed like a strong independent person from the get go but again during the story there was cracks to her hard persona. I also found the other characters a good edition to the story especially the children they were so sweet.

Overall I really enjoyed this story although the ending I was a bit disappointed in as I felt it needed extending.