Review: A Feast of Souls: Araneae Nation, Book 2 by Hailey Edwards

Synopsis:
Born with the ability to communicate with the dead, few things take Mana by surprise. But when a canis lopes into her life, announcing himself as the long-dead father of a childhood friend, she’s shocked. To make matters worse, he has a dire message that she alone can deliver.

Now Mana must face Vaughn, the male who inspired one too many girlish fantasies, and impart the spirit’s message—without acknowledging her source—so the soul can be laid to rest.

With rumors of a burgeoning clan war setting his nerves on edge, the last thing Vaughn needs is for an innocent to get caught in the crosshairs. But the woman he remembers as an awkward girl refuses to leave his side until he’s heard her out. That’s not the only change in her that calls to him. Her kindness soothes his battle-scarred soul—and he craves her in ways a warrior shouldn’t.

When they are both captured, they learn of an even greater threat. The plague devastating the southlands has come to his clan home. And his best—and only—chance to keep his people alive is the female who walks among the dead.

Product Warnings
This book contains one fierce hero with a nose for danger, one stubborn heroine who smells like trouble, and one wolfish spirit who makes most relationships with the in-laws seem downright tame. Fur, fangs and some biting should be expected. But never fear, the hero has a sword, and he knows how to use it.

Publication Date: December18, 2012
Genre: Adult, Fantasy, Romance
Source: Thanks so much to Hailey Edwards for providing me with a review copy!

Review:
Ah! Ok, it was predetermined that I would like this book. As the second book in this series it lived up to my expectations and then some. Sometimes it's hard to adjust to new main characters in a series when you've gotten attached the ones from previous books, but this book has no problems there.

Book 1, A Hint of Frost (my review), centers around Rhys and Lourdes. A Feast of Souls focuses on Rhys's brother Vaughn *gazes off dreamily* I can't say how excited I was that Vaughn was the 'hero' in this book. Even though he wasn't in the first book a whole lot, he stood out as an interesting and complex character. He doesn't disappoint at all. He has to be tough and violent at times, but I love that his one soft spot, his achilles heel, is Mana. Gah! I loved them in this book so much!

One thing I have to say I admire about Mana is that unlike a lot of female characters in romance novels she is really honest with herself about her feelings for Vaughn. She has the inner turmoil of being attracted to him but thinking he's not right for her, without pushing him away. That drives me crazy in books when the girl will be over the top against being with this or that person. Mana can't keep Vaughn at a distance no matter what her head tells her because she is in tune to what her heart is saying.

I think I probably mentioned this in my review of the first book of this series, but I was so impressed by this fact again in Book 2. Hailey Edwards has this amazing gift of writing Romance that is gripping, tension-filled and *way* sexy . . . without being smutty. Plus, the Fantasy element of the novel doesn't take a backseat to all the steamy stuff. The story is an integral part of the characters and their relationships.

If you haven't read anything of Hailey's, you are missing out. She is an amazing author and has a true gift for this genre. An author to keep your eyes on, for sure!

Tour Review: Meant to Be by Lauren Morrill

Synopsis:
Meant to be or not meant to be . . . that is the question.

It's one thing to fall head over heels into a puddle of hazelnut coffee, and quite another to fall for the—gasp—wrong guy. Straight-A junior Julia may be accident prone, but she's queen of following rules and being prepared. That's why she keeps a pencil sharpener in her purse and a pocket Shakespeare in her, well, pocket. And that's also why she's chosen Mark Bixford, her childhood crush, as her MTB ("meant to be").

But this spring break, Julia's rules are about to get defenestrated (SAT word: to be thrown from a window) when she's partnered with her personal nemesis, class-clown Jason, on a school trip to London. After one wild party, Julia starts receiving romantic texts . . . from an unknown number! Jason promises to help discover the identity of her mysterious new suitor if she agrees to break a few rules along the way. And thus begins a wild goose chase through London, leading Julia closer and closer to the biggest surprise of all: true love.

Because sometimes the things you least expect are the most meant to be

Publication Date: November 13, 2012
Genre: Young Adult, Romance, Contemporary, Realistic Fiction
Source: Thanks to the Souther Book Bloggers for allowing me to be a part of this book tour!



Review:
The only way I can describe this book is: Adorable. It is simply sweet and scrumptiously adorable. I had a good idea of where the book was going, but there are enough little twists to keep you feeling satisfied with the story.

This book has one of my favorite personality combinations to read: uptight, rule-folllower type of girl and the free-spirited, life-loving dude that inspires her to just be herself. Julia and Jason's relationship is so sweet and progresses so honestly throughout the book. I also loved how Jason isn't exactly what he appears to be on the outside. He can be really deep and considerate and sweet. I keep using that word, but if you read the book you'll see why :)

If you love contemporary fiction that keeps you hooked in, but the subject matter isn't too dark then this is the perfect book to read. It's a quick book to go through, but leaves you feeling warm and happy with how it ends. A good weekend type of book to read :)

Review: The Mephisto Kiss by Trinity Faegen

Synopsis:
The eyes never lie. No one’s eyes are darker than Eryx. Not even the Devil’s.

When Jax and Sasha first see Jordan Ellis, they know she is no ordinary teenager. She’s the daughter of the President after all, but she’s also Anabo – a descendant of Eve.

What they don’t know is that Eryx plans to kidnap Jordan and force President Ellis to pledge his soul. If Eryx’s plot succeeds, the consequences would be catastrophic.

But the Mephisto brothers do know about Jordan’s secret identity. And for one of them, she could be the match that leads to their soul’s salvation.

Now it’s a desperate race against time to save Jordan and prevent Eryx’s haunting eyes from discovering her true identity.

Publication Date: September 25, 2012
Genre: Young Adult, Paranormal, Romance
Source: I won this ARC via the cover reveal giveaway for the book :D

Review:
My initial reaction to having the book focus on a different Mephisto brother was mildly pouty, maybe a bit whiney as well.  I wanted my Jax...and Sasha too.  A great pair, and I loved their story in Mephisto Covenant (my review for that one here). It didn't take long for me to become just as wrapped up in one of the other brother's (I won't spill any secrets...I won't spill any secrets *bites lip*) relationship with Jordan.

The Mephisto brothers are a complicated and intriguing lot. They each have their own hangups and issues which makes for great reading. Getting into this second book gives an even greater look into the vast history spread out behind each of them. Their struggles, strengths and screaming good looks *ahem* showcase them as distinct individuals. And this is only Book two!

I have to say that I loved the character development of Eryx. He is black-as-coal evil, no light to be seen. But we get to see some deeper glimpses of him as character, for good or bad I won't say. But it's awesome! Jordan is a great character as well. She is totally different from Sasha, but because Jordan is Anabo too they share some of the same traits.

I stand by comparing Trinity's books to candy. You can't just have one piece of candy, just like you can't read only one chapter of this book. It gets into your system and makes you keep reading :) I believe I might become a bit repetitive, but everything I love in a good, angsty, paranormal romance is what this entire book is made of. There's nothing I don't like about it.

Review: Dark Dates by Tracey Sinclair

Synopsis:
All Cassandra Bick wants is to be left to get on with doing her job. But when you’re a Sensitive whose business is running a dating agency for vampires, life is never going to be straightforward – especially when there’s a supernatural war brewing in London, a sexy new bloodsucker in town and your mysterious, homicidal and vampire hating ex-lover chooses this moment to reappear in your life…

Witty, sharp and entertaining, Dark Dates is a heady mix of vampires, witches and werewolves – with the occasional angel thrown in – and introduces Cassandra Bick, a likeable heroine destined to join the ranks of fantasy’s feistiest females.

Publication Date: April 2012
Genre: Adult, Paranormal, Romance
Source: Thanks so much to the author for providing me with a review copy!

Review:
I was so impressed with Dark Dates. I'm a huge fan of books with a fierce heroine that gets tangled up in the paranormal, and this is a great addition to those ranks. It easily stands on its own merit with a unique approach to the idea.

The world that Cassandra Bick lives in is a world tinted with the paranormal, and she's completely used to that.  I loved her personality and wit . . . and her temper.  She's an ordinary woman, which her kind-of-but-not-really boyfriend Cane likes to point out in the most matter of fact way, with a strong backbone, a healthy dose of self respect and independence with just the right amount of womanly petulance. She isn't some jaw-dropping vision of perfection, and that makes her even more relatable.

Her relationship with Cane is immensely interesting.  Over the years he flits in and out of her life, going off to do some secretive paranormal hunting.  Cane's sex appeal oozes off of the pages, but he's not all hearthrob. He's actually quite an ass most of the time. The glimpses of his softer side had me very intrigued about his past, the things he has seen and done.

Dark Dates has a strong character base and compelling storyline. Within this genre I think I'm hard to impress, and I seriously thought this one was great. I am Tracey Sinclair's newest fan and I can't wait to see what the next book holds for Cassandra in this series. 


You can find Dark Dates on Amazon and Goodreads.

You can connect with the Author via her Blog or Twitter.

Review: Pushing the Limits by Katie McGarry

Synopsis:
"I won't tell anyone, Echo. I promise." Noah tucked a curl behind my ear. It had been so long since someone touched me like he did. Why did it have to be Noah Hutchins? His dark brown eyes shifted to my covered arms. "You didn't do that-did you? It was done to you?" No one ever asked that question. They stared. They whispered. They laughed. But they never asked.

"An edgy romance that pulls you in and never lets go. I was hooked!"-Gena Showalter, New York Times bestselling author of the Intertwined series

So wrong for each other...and yet so right.

No one knows what happened the night Echo Emerson went from popular girl with jock boyfriend to gossiped-about outsider with "freaky" scars on her arms. Even Echo can't remember the whole truth of that horrible night. All she knows is that she wants everything to go back to normal. But when Noah Hutchins, the smoking-hot, girl-using loner in the black leather jacket, explodes into her life with his tough attitude and surprising understanding, Echo's world shifts in ways she could never have imagined. They should have nothing in common. And with the secrets they both keep, being together is pretty much impossible. Yet the crazy attraction between them refuses to go away. And Echo has to ask herself just how far they can push the limits and what she'll risk for the one guy who might teach her how to love again.

Publication Date: July 31, 2012
Genre: Young Adult, Contemporary, Realistic Fiction, Romance
Source: Thanks so much to Harlequin Teen for making this title available though Netgalley.


Review:

I can't remember the last time I cried actual tears while reading a book. Pushing the Limits kind of crept up on me. It just kept ratcheting up my emotions (in a good way) and hitting all the right nerves. I ACHED for these characters. I felt their pain. I love a book that kind of beats me up along the way. But don't get the wrong idea, this isn't a depressing book. It's very profound and touching and beautiful. I loved it! Echo is an amazing MC. Omg. Looking back after finishing the book her tra...moreI can't remember the last time I cried actual tears while reading a book. Pushing the Limits kind of crept up on me. It just kept ratcheting up my emotions (in a good way) and hitting all the right nerves. I ACHED for these characters. I felt their pain. I love a book that kind of beats me up along the way. But don't get the wrong idea, this isn't a depressing book. It's very profound and touching and beautiful. I loved it! Echo is an amazing MC. Omg. Looking back after finishing the book her transformation is breath-taking. Book perfection. She has lived through a traumatic event that she can't remember and it defines her life. She's stuck back in that black hole of not knowing and although she wants to move forward she's basically just living a shadow of a life. Trying to be normal. Noah is another great character. He's got his own issues that are holding him back and keeping him from being the person he wants to be. Their mutual school counselor throws them together and they pretty much rock each other's worlds. They recognize the broken parts of each other and are drawn together like magnets. What was great to me was that although these were two dysfunctional characters, their relationship was amazingly functional. They made each other better. The tension just builds and builds in this one and tied me up into so many knots along the way before finally smoothing them out. I love those moments in books where you just keep reading faster and faster to get to the resolution. I have a hard time stopping before that point :) This is such a beautiful and satisfying-to-the-soul kind of read.

SBB Review: Girl of Nightmares by Kendare Blake

Synopsis:
It's been months since the ghost of Anna Korlov opened a door to Hell in her basement and disappeared into it, but ghost-hunter Cas Lowood can't move on.
His friends remind him that Anna sacrificed herself so that Cas could live--not walk around half dead. He knows they're right, but in Cas's eyes, no living girl he meets can compare to the dead girl he fell in love with.
Now he's seeing Anna everywhere: sometimes when he's asleep and sometimes in waking nightmares. But something is very wrong...these aren't just daydreams. Anna seems tortured, torn apart in new and ever more gruesome ways every time she appears.
Cas doesn't know what happened to Anna when she disappeared into Hell, but he knows she doesn't deserve whatever is happening to her now. Anna saved Cas more than once, and it's time for him to return the favor.


Publication Date: August 7, 2012
Genre: Young Adult, Paranormal, Romance, Horror
Source: Thanks so much to Southern Book Bloggers for letting me be a part of this tour!


Review:
Girl of Nightmares more than lived up to what I had expected and hoped for from this book.  Somehow I had forgotten in between reading Anna Dressed in Blood and this book that besides being amazingly well-written and interesting...it's also effing scary :) I'll admit to being a huge chicken-faced wimp, so maybe creepy or unsettling would be better words to use. I'll let you decide that for yourselves.

I was reminded right from the start how genuinely great Cas's voice is in this book. My sister at The Elliott Review was the one that insisted that I read this book because it was awesome. One of the things she loved most was Cas as the first-person narrator.  She said he was her favorite male narrator in a book, ever. And I have to say that I 100% agree. He's such a thinking, serious type of person but it's blended perfectly with his snarky, smart-ass mouth. Add in the fact that he is in love with a dead ex-murderer girl that could rip his face off...and you get come to understand just how complex of a guy he really is. When it comes to Anna though, there are no complex issues for him to work out. He loves her and wants what's best for her, and he'll do whatever it takes for that to happen.

Now the first we see of Anna in this book is seriously messed up and creeptastic. If you are really aiming to make this a scary read make sure you are reading it at night because the parts with her in them are very unsettling. And I loved it :)

The story continues seamlessly from Anna Dressed in Blood.  Some second books have a slow start picking up where they left off, but even if it's been awhile since you've read the first one it will all come back to you in this book.  This one is another page-turner and you'll want to punch your clock when it tells you it's too late and you should go to sleep instead of finishing your book.

New Adult Review: All The Wrong Reasons by J.L. Paul

Synopsis:
Irelyn's life is headed in the right direction: College education, new friends, fantastic boyfriend. Her dream of writing romance novels isn't too far out of reach. Her relationship with her family is good. And to top it all off, she's positive her boyfriend is going to propose soon. Yes, life is wonderful.

Until that night with Lucas changes everything.

Publication Date: February 24, 2011
Genre: New Adult, Mature YA, Contemporary, Romance
Source: My own Tower of Books!



Review:
I bought this book for my Kindle when I saw it compared to Beautiful Disaster by Jamie McGuire. I adored that book and was excited to try something along the same lines. This didn't quite live up to my expectations but was still an enjoyable read.

I really liked the overall plot of the book. Irelyn gets herself into some major trouble when she has a one night stand with the smokin' lead singer of a band. Problem is that she has a boyfriend she's been in a long-term relationship with AND that she can't stop hooking up with band guy, Lucas. I love when characters make bad decisions and ultimately come out on top. I also loved Lucas and his bandmates/family. I read this book super fast to find out how everything was going to turn out, it was hard to put down.

All that being said there were a few things that kept me from rating it higher than I did (3 stars). There was a recurring theme of Irelyn blushing, like all the time. It started to feel contrived. Please keep in mind that I love a well-placed red-cheeked gal. It can add so much to a scene when put in the right place AND used sparingly. My last issue was that in a book like this that promises some angst and sex...I kind of missed the sex :) There was all the build up and then...*play music* cut to landscape shot out of the window. I'm no perv, but I want to know what these people are doing with (to) each other *waggles eyebrows*

I would say that if you like books in this genre that you should go ahead and read it. It was definitely still worth it for me and I'll be reading the second book in this series soon too. I could see room for improvement but was overall satisfied with the story.

Review: Beautiful Disaster by Jamie McGuire

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

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

Publication Date: May 26, 2011
Genre: Young Adult, New Adult, Romance, Contemporary
Source: My own Tower of Books


Review:
One of my book friends texted me and told me I had to read this book. We have similar book taste so I bought it and started it the next day. I swear I would have walked around the house with my Kindle all day not speaking to anyone if I could've gotten away with it. It's like the perfect storm of everything I die for in a book.

I was skeptical the first two chapters because I thought 'Been here, seen this.' Um, no. The entire story is so unique and Abby and Travis's relationship is absurdly addicting to read. Their relationship is passionate and volatile...and sweet. Abby is so likeable and every decision she makes made sense to me, I didn't have to forgive the book anything because there was nothing to pick apart. Travis is...how do I put this...I mean, can I marry a fictional character yet? Is that possible? :)

Seriously though, there are so many reasons to love this book and I can't do it justice. Read it!! It stands on its own merit. This is definitely a must-read and I'm now dying to read it again. AND I *needs* to see this as a movie!

I am freaking out over this author and will be reading everything she writes! If you want to buy this book (and YOU SHOULD :) it's only $2.99 on Amazon. So worth that price and more.

Review: Temptation by Karen Ann Hopkins

Synopsis:
Your heart misleads you. That's what my friends and family say. But I love Noah. And he loves me. We met and fell in love in the sleepy farming community of Meadowview, while we rode our horses together through the grassy fields and in those moments in each other's arms. It should be ROSE & NOAH forever, easy. But it won't be. Because he's Amish. And I'm not.

Publication Date: June 26, 2012
Genre: Young Adult, Contemporary, Romance, Realistic Fiction
Source: Thanks so much to Harlequin Teen for making this title available through Netgalley!

Review:
Temptation has a really cool and unique forbidden romance going on in it. Rose and Noah definitely should not be together, but they find it impossible to stay apart.

I had a mixed bag of feelings about this novel. From the beginning I was pretty sure I knew how things would turn out between these two young characters, but I was actually kept guessing the entire time. They can't be together...maybe they can! Nope, no way. It could never work out, Buuuut...(yes, I did this the entire time I was reading :) My need to find out how things would play out kept me reading and I got through this one really fast. I shouldn't forget to mention that the characterization is really well done even though I wasn't totally sold on the romantic element.

As much as I was interested in how Rose and Noah's love would be resolved, their relationship was lacking in intensity to me. I never quite got how they fell so madly in love apart from just a physical attraction that was mistaken for something more...the story of teenagers' lives really. Sometimes I'd be rooting for things to work out for them, and then other times I was pretty sure it was the worst possible idea.

Although the romance was missing a spark for me, the plot does a good job of keeping you drawn in, not wanting to miss what will happen. And although you *kind of* find out what happens between these two young lovers, this is the first book in a series and the reader is left on a smallish cliffhanger :) Since I still feel a great need to see what goes down I'll be keeping an eye out for Temptation's sequel.

Review: Timepiece by Myra McEntire

Synopsis:
A threat from the past could destroy the future. And the clock is ticking...

Kaleb Ballard's relentless flirting is interrupted when Jack Landers, the man who tried to murder his father, timeslips in and attacks before disappearing just as quickly. But Kaleb has never before been able to see time travelers, unlike many of his friends associated with the mysterious Hourglass organization. Are Kaleb's powers expanding, or is something very wrong?

Then the Hourglass is issued an ultimatum. Either they find Jack and the research he's stolen on the time gene, or time will be altered with devastating results.

Now Kaleb, Emerson, Michael, and the other Hourglass recruits have no choice but to use their unusual powers to find Jack. But where do they even start? And when? And even if they succeed, it may not be enough...

Publication Date: June 12, 2012
Genre: Young Adult, Paranormal, Romance
Source: Thanks to EgmontUSA for making this title available on Netgalley!

Review:
I just recently read the first book in this series, Hourglass. I pretty much died over it :) So I've been really excited to dig into this one. It met alot of my expectations and missed a few as well. Overall I'd say it was a satisfying read and I'll be eagerly awaiting the next book.

Kaleb was probably (definitely) my favorite character in Hourglass. He's not in it nearly as much as Michael or Emerson, but he makes an impact :) I was surprised to start reading and have Kaleb be the narrator in Timepiece as a opposed to Emerson. I really liked Kaleb as narrator for the most part. It gave me a greater insight into his character and his motivations and whatnot. But it also took away some of the mystery and excitement. And I know this is going to sound wishy-washy, but he was almost too much of a stand-up guy in this book. It totally makes sense why he is, but still :)

The plot in Timepiece is superbly twisty and turny. But not so much so that you fry your brain trying to keep up with time traveling jargon and whatnot. I really love that these are 'time travel' books without all the hurt-your-brain time travel stuff. Does that make sense? Anyway, the story is really fast-paced and action-y. I also got a better understanding of the Hourglass organization within the story and there is plenty of character development across the board. I read this one almost as fast as I read Hourglass.

I think this is a solid second book. I'll be waiting impatiently for Book 3!

'Late to the Party' Review: Hourglass by Myra McEntire

Synopsis:
For seventeen-year-old Emerson Cole, life is about seeing what isn’t there: swooning Southern Belles; soldiers long forgotten; a haunting jazz trio that vanishes in an instant. Plagued by phantoms since her parents’ death, she just wants the apparitions to stop so she can be normal. She’s tried everything, but the visions keep coming back.

So when her well-meaning brother brings in a consultant from a secretive organization called the Hourglass, Emerson’s willing to try one last cure. But meeting Michael Weaver may not only change her future, it may change her past.
Who is this dark, mysterious, sympathetic guy, barely older than Emerson herself, who seems to believe every crazy word she says? Why does an electric charge seem to run through the room whenever he’s around? And why is he so insistent that he needs her help to prevent a death that never should have happened?

Publication Date: June 14, 2011
Genre: Young Adult, Paranormal, Romance
Source: My own Tower of Books.


Review:
Ohmygosh!! I've had this sitting in a pile by my bed forevs. I wanted to read Timepiece (Book 2) so I finally got my butt in gear and ended up reading Hourglass in one day. I was skeptical at first since I kept hearing how amazing it was. But all the hype was true. This book is basically perfect.

I'm going to have a hard time mentioning anything other than all the crazy freaking chemistry going on amongst Emerson, Michael and Kaleb . . . so I'll just mention really quickly that the storyline and writing are great too :)

Emerson gets involved with Michael when he comes to 'help' with her problem of seeing what she thinks are ghosts. He's all dreamy, perfect, and yum. THEN, in comes Kaleb and, be still my fictional character loving heart, he is even better! Talk about some sexual tension brewing! This book has an overflowing abundance of that. If you've read the Sookie Stackhouse books you'll get my next comparison. The whole Micheal/Kaleb thing was very similar to how I felt about Bill/Eric. Bill is totally acceptable until Eric enters the picture. Then you have a hard time getting him out of your head :) There were some parts I 'Eeeee'd over for sure!

Ah! Hourglass was so amazing! If you haven't read it, read it! And if you HAVE, what did you think about Michael vs. Kaleb? Now on to Timepiece :D

Review: The Selection by Kiera Cass

Synopsis:

For thirty-five girls, the Selection is the chance of a lifetime. The opportunity to escape the life laid out for them since birth. To be swept up in a world of glittering gowns and priceless jewels. To live in the palace and compete for the heart of the gorgeous Prince Maxon.

But for America Singer, being Selected is a nightmare. It means turning her back on her secret love with Aspen, who is a caste below her. Leaving her home to enter a fierce competition for a crown she doesn't want. Living in a palace that is constantly threatened by violent rebel attacks.

Then America meets Prince Maxon. Gradually, she starts to question all the plans she's made for herself- and realizes that the life she's always dreamed of may not compare to a future she never imagined.

Publication Date: April 24, 2012
Genre: Young Adult, Dystopian, Romance
Source: Thanks to Harper Teen for making this title available at ALA Midwinter! 

Review:
If I'm being honest I was kind of terrified to read this book :) What if I liked it? What if I didn't like it? Turns out it's just a book. And one that I really liked at that.

At first I did see some similarities to The Hunger Games in that the people are labeled by numbers that represent their class in this dystopian world. That's really where the similarities end though. There is a survival element to the novel, but it's fleshed out in a totally different way. Plus, add in the Bachelor-esque (Oh, shut it! You know you watch it too!) element and I had a hard time putting the darn thing down.

America is the main character and I didn't connect with her at the beginning of the story, but by the time she's chosen to participate in The Selection I think her personality and character rise to the surface. She becomes a lot more likeable at that point. The awesome part of the story is that unlike all the other girls in The Selection, she is a reluctant participant. It puts her in a unique position when it comes to vying for the Prince's affection.

That brings me to my next point. I loved how Prince Maxon and America meet for the first time and the way he has such an intense focus on her from that point on. Their relationship centers on friendship and makes for a believable turn towards romance later on. The problem at that point is that America still has feelings for her cheating (supposedly) Ex, Aspen. The end of the book sets up a great scenario for these three to be in a bonafide love triangle. It's my favorite kind too. Nobody is really at fault for it happening . . . circumstances beyond their control and all that :)

Anyway, I'll be looking forward to the next book in this series for sure. I'm glad I finally cracked the pages of this one. And don't forget the killer cover!

Review: Spell Bound (Hex Hall #3) by Rachel Hawkins

Synopsis:Just as Sophie Mercer has come to accept her extraordinary magical powers as a demon, the Prodigium Council strips them away. Now Sophie is defenseless, alone, and at the mercy of her sworn enemies—the Brannicks, a family of warrior women who hunt down the Prodigium. Or at least that’s what Sophie thinks, until she makes a surprising discovery. The Brannicks know an epic war is coming, and they believe Sophie is the only one powerful enough to stop the world from ending. But without her magic, Sophie isn’t as confident.

Sophie’s bound for one hell of a ride—can she get her powers back before it’s too late?

Publication Date: March 13, 2012
Genre: Young Adult, Paranormal, Romance
Source: My own Tower of Books


Review:
I remember when I picked up the first book in this series and I was like, "I don't think I'm going to even like---" *reads entire book in one day* And just like that I was a Hex Hall fan. There's nothing overly complicated. It's just a great story with characters that you like and care about. That sounds simple, but there are a ton of books that lack those 'simple' things.

Sophie, or Mercer as Archer likes to call her (Archer...mmm), hides behind her sarcasm and is hesitant to show how much she cares about the people in her life. Her bumbling non-stop chatter when she's nervous is very endearing. She's one of those book characters you want to be friends with. And this third book is no exception as far as those things go.

Then there's Archer freaking Cross. He's a bad boy with heart and you get to see a lot more of the heart-y part in this book. He's one of my favorite fictional guys :) And I forgot how much I loved Sophie's dad! He pulls off the serious, British deadpan thing so perfectly.

Anyway, I'm sure I'm forgetting to mention some other things I liked about Spell Bound. The main thing is that I loved the book, and it doesn't disappoint one bit! As I neared the end I started getting that I-want-to-finish-this-book-to-find-out-what-happens-but-what-if-it's-the-last-one feeling (that's an ode to Sophie there...poorly done, but still). I don't know if/when there will be another book, but it looks like that possibility was left open :)Yays!

Review: A Hint of Frost by Hailey Edwards

Synopsis:
When the head of the Araneidae clan is found poisoned in her nest, her eldest daughter, Lourdes, becomes their clan’s new maven. If her clan is to survive, she has but one choice: she must marry before her nest is seized. All she needs is a warrior fierce enough to protect her city and safeguard her clansmen. Such a male is Rhys the Cold.

Born the youngest son of an impoverished maven, the only things Rhys has to his name are his sword and his mercenary reputation. His clan is starving, but their fondness for the flesh of fellow Araneaeans makes them unwelcome dinner guests. Torn between loyalty to his clan and fascination with his future bride, Rhys’s first taste of Lourdes threatens to melt the cold encasing his heart.

Amid the chaos of battle, Lourdes’s sister disappears and is feared captured. Lourdes and Rhys pursue their enemies into the southlands, where they discover an odd plague ravaging southern clans as it travels north, to Erania. Determined to survive, Lourdes will discover whether she’s worth her silk or if she’s spun the thread by which her clan will hang.

Product Warnings
This book contains one mercenary hero with a biting fetish, one determined heroine who gets nibbled, and an answer to the age-old question, “What does dragon taste like?” Matricide and sibling rivalry are available upon request. The house special is revenge, best served cold.

Publication Date: April 17, 2012
Genre: Romance, Fantasy, Adult
Source: Thanks so much to the author Hailey Edwards for my review copy!


Review:

Where to begin on this one? I was so impressed by this book! It's a wonderful fantasy type Romance. I didn't have to read very far into it to realize I was going to love it. The relationship between Lourdes and Rhys is super steamy from the beginning, but it's not crude. It's all about the tension between them. He is one of my favorite fictional male types: muscley, manly and possessive of his girl. I realize that's not everyone's favorite, but it's done in such a sweet and yummy way in...moreWhere to begin on this one? I was so impressed by this book! It's a wonderful fantasy type Romance. I didn't have to read very far into it to realize I was going to love it. The relationship between Lourdes and Rhys is super steamy from the beginning, but it's not crude. It's all about the tension between them. He is one of my favorite fictional male types: muscley, manly and possessive of his girl. I realize that's not everyone's favorite, but it's done in such a sweet and yummy way in this one. And a guy that has fangs and venom (but isn't a vampire)? I mean, come on. Yes, please :) The world building is fantastic too! There is a whole world, history and different clans within them and it's flawless. It's all easily understood from the beginning, but there is so much depth behind it. Plus, it stands out without crushing the actual story with all these explanations and blah-blah kind of stuff like some books do. Does that make sense? Like it's there but it doesn't take you out of the story. My only negative would be a few parts towards the end seemed a little rushed. It was more than made up for at the very end though :) As I was reading I was very excited to have another steamy series to add to my shelf. I'm also wondering if maybe we'll see Rhys's brother Vaughn in a spin-off side novel type thing. Something like what Jeaniene Frost does? :D I'll definitely be checking out this author's other books as well. You Romance lovers out there should give this one a go! To find out more about the author check her out on Goodreads , Facebook, Twitter and  her Website.

Review: Anna Dressed in Blood by Kendare Blake

Synopsis:
Just your average boy-meets-girl, girl-kills-people story. . .

Cas Lowood has inherited an unusual vocation: He kills the dead.

So did his father before him, until his gruesome murder by a ghost he sought to kill. Now, armed with his father's mysterious and deadly athame, Cas travels the country with his kitchen-witch mother and their spirit-sniffing cat. Together they follow legends and local lore, trying to keep up with the murderous dead—keeping pesky things like the future and friends at bay.

When they arrive in a new town in search of a ghost the locals call Anna Dressed in Blood, Cas doesn't expect anything outside of the ordinary: move, hunt, kill. What he finds instead is a girl entangled in curses and rage, a ghost like he's never faced before. She still wears the dress she wore on the day of her brutal murder in 1958: once white, but now stained red and dripping blood. Since her death, Anna has killed any and every person who has dared to step into the deserted Victorian she used to call home.

And she, for whatever reason, spares his life.

Publication Date: August 30, 2011
Genre: Young Adult, Paranormal, Romance
Source: My own Tower of books :)


Review:

Anna Dressed in Blood is creepy and great. That pretty much sums it up for me :) I've seen some reviews that it wasn't as scary as some people thought it would be, but I don't think it's meant to be a Horror novel. AND I can say in all confidence that if you are up reading in your dark, quiet house at 12:25am . . . it's pretty eff-ing creepy. On to Cas. He's the ghost-killing hero in this book. He has some swoon-worthy moments throughout, but it wouldn't fit into the whole plot of h...moreAnna Dressed in Blood is creepy and great. That pretty much sums it up for me :) I've seen some reviews that it wasn't as scary as some people thought it would be, but I don't think it's meant to be a Horror novel. AND I can say in all confidence that if you are up reading in your dark, quiet house at 12:25am . . . it's pretty eff-ing creepy. On to Cas. He's the ghost-killing hero in this book. He has some swoon-worthy moments throughout, but it wouldn't fit into the whole plot of him having to kill Anna if he was all professing his undying (no pun intended) love for her the whole time. He's actually very conflicted because his life's purpose is to kill unruly ghosts . . . and seeing as Anna is highly murderous and rips people to shreds, he needs to get rid of her. Believe it or not their budding feelings for each other are pretty sweet :) All the other characters in the book serve a purpose and hold their weight in the story. I really liked bumbling, nerdy Thomas and wished there was a little more of him in the story. Preppy and popular Carmel is pretty good too, but she took a little longer to grow on me as she became more involved in the strange goings-on of Cas and Thomas. I've been meaning to read this one for awhile now, and I think it's one of the most unique ghosty-creepy-romancey stories that I've read. Oh! And I should mention that the words in the book are actually printed in a deep, maroon red. Just that one detail adds a little something to the experience of reading this one.

Review: Perfect Chemistry by Simone Elkeles

Synopsis:
A fresh, urban twist on the classic tale of star-crossed lovers.

When Brittany Ellis walks into chemistry class on the first day of senior year, she has no clue that her carefully created “perfect” life is about to unravel before her eyes. She’s forced to be lab partners with Alex Fuentes, a gang member from the other side of town, and he is about to threaten everything she's worked so hard for—her flawless reputation, her relationship with her boyfriend, and the secret that her home life is anything but perfect. Alex is a bad boy and he knows it. So when he makes a bet with his friends to lure Brittany into his life, he thinks nothing of it. But soon Alex realizes Brittany is a real person with real problems, and suddenly the bet he made in arrogance turns into something much more. In a passionate story about looking beneath the surface, Simone Elkeles breaks through the stereotypes and barriers that threaten to keep Brittany and Alex apart.

Review:
I never thought I would be reluctant to dive back into a paranormal read, but after reading this book that is exactly how I feel. This is a contemporary book that is so amazingly sexy and sweet. I was burning through the pages to find out what would happen, but also feeling sad that it would end at some point.

The premise could be compared to a Romeo and Juliet type scenario. Two people from different worlds fighting for their love against all odds. I don't want Shakespeare fans to punch my face, but this book took that idea to another level.

I never knew how sexy a Spanish/English mix could be or someone being called 'mamacita', but, WHOA!! It really is. Alex is a gang banger that lives life as the bad boy. When he meets Brittany she awakens his inner softie, and he becomes SO . . . yum!

The chapters alternate their perspectives, and after I was introduced to each of them I felt this manic glee and tingly anticipation because I knew they would eventually get together...and I knew it would be a great ride. I was right :)

Do not miss out on this book. Read it right now and if you don't like it, I want to know why! :)

Publication Date: December 23, 2008
Genre: Contemporary, Romance, Young Adult
Source: My own tower of books

Review: Borrowed Heart by Linda Lamberson

Synopsis:
Evie Sanders is pretty good at heeding that gnawing feeling she gets when trouble rears its head—or at least she used to be. Things change when she meets Quinn Harrison one morning after class. Evie would never do anything intentionally to hurt her long-distance boyfriend or jeopardize their relationship, but she finds it increasingly difficult to resist Quinn. Just when things can’t seem to get any more complicated, Evie is involved in a fatal car accident. Yet, her death marks a new beginning—and her new existence as an immortal. It’s not long before Evie and Quinn’s paths cross again, and she finds herself trying to walk a fine line between bending the rules she must now obey and breaking them.


Review
I have a ton of good things to say about this book, but I'll start with the cover. There is something about it that I just love! After I got it in the mail, I kept picking it up to admire and fast-flip through the pages. I realize that has nothing to do with the inner workings...so I will move on :-)

The concept behind the plot of this story is fresh and unique. It's got a lot of familiar things in it, but sets itself apart in many ways. Evie is a plain-ish type girl going to college, minding her business when she meets Quinn. He makes her heart thump...but she has a boyfriend. She wants to do the right thing, but ends up dead in the process (I'm condensing here... ;-) Luckily, death is not the end for Evie.

As I said before, I really liked the idea behind this book. There were a ton of characters that I loved....and one or two I loved to hate. There's Evie's mentor, Peter. He is a figure of security for Evie, but still has a bit of mystery surrounding him. Evie is brash and thoughtless sometimes, but always for doing the things any normal person would. Her self-control is iffy at best...and I like that! On to Quinn. The first part of the book I found myself unsure of his motives and I didn't know a whole lot about him. Later on he becomes more transparent and, in turn, pretty darn sexy.

There was one part (towards the end) where I was telling my book 'Noooo!!'. I won't say why because that would spoil the fun, but I think there will be a lot more 'No-ing' in the next book.

A strong story that gains momentum as it goes along. I am very looking forward to Book 2!


Publication Date: August 4, 2011
Genre: Young Adult, Paranormal, Romance
Source: Thanks so much to the author, Linda Lamberson, for my review copy.

Check out Borrowed Heart on:
Goodreads
Amazon - ebook $2.99
Barnes & Noble - ebook $2.99
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Review: Broken Wings by Sandra Edwards

Synopsis:
Rio Laraquette thought the legend was nothing more than an enchanted tale about star-crossed lovers who left behind a fortune. That is, until she figures out that she—in a past life—was the culprit who stole a shipment of gold and silver and buried it somewhere in the hills of northern Nevada.

While searching for the treasure, Rio's heart begins to ache for a man who's been dead more than one hundred years. They say time heals all wounds, but what if it doesn't...?

Review:
Before I even get into the story, I have to mention that cover...not too bad, huh? Moving on, this is a romance novel with class, and it was a really fun read.

Rio Laraquette is a lot of different things. She's strong, independent, and just the right amount of vulnerable. I also saw her as a risk-taker. I like reading about this type of person since I am definitely not a taker of risks. She starts off as a treasure hunter, looking for gold that was buried a long time ago. As she gets pulled deeper into the history of the Native American family, the Tajans, she realizes she is connected to the treasure in an unbelieveable way. Billy Tajan was great as her helpful, caring cousin. Plus, I have a hard time finding any flaws with a hottie type Native American. I love how Rio and Billy's stories played out in the end.

A fun and entertaining read. The end of Broken Wings makes me excited to think of where the next book will take Rio. I love me some Romance!

Publication Date: September 15, 2010
Genre: Adult, Romance
Source: Thanks to the author, Sandra Edwards, for my review copy.

Review: Heir to the Sun by Jennifer Allis Provost

Synopsis:
The Faerie King has entered into a pact with the demon lord, trading his people's freedom for the might to conquer the nine realms. Two unlikely allies are determined to stop him: Asherah, enslaved by demons, and Caol'nir, a warrior sworn to defend the king.

When Asherah, stripped of both her memory and her dignity, learns that King Sahlgren is responsible for her captivity, she leads her fellow slaves in a daring escape and burns their prison to the ground. Then she learns that there are many more prisons across Parthalan, and embarks upon a campaign to free every last faerie.

In stark contrast to Asherah's struggles, Caol'nir lives the comfortable life of a temple guard. He is sworn to serve and defend the king, as his ancestors have done since time immemorial. Now a priestess has been murdered, and Caol'nir learns that Sahlgren's scheming is to blame. Determined to thwart the king, sacred oath or no, Caol'nir joins Asherah's rebellion. What Caol'nir doesn't know is that Sahlgren has promised the demon lord a woman of rare and singular beauty, a woman who is rumored to be the sun god's daughter. She also happens to be Caol'nir's mate

Review:
I really love reading good Fantasy novels written by women. Don't get me wrong, I mean, a lot of my favorite Fantasy authors are male . . . but it's refreshing to get a woman's perspective on things. This novel showcases two couples and their love set within a wonderfully created world with rich history and background.

The thing that stuck out to me the most was how engaged I was with the relationships. There's Caol'nir and Alluria with their forbidden yet sweet love. I loved every minute of them in the book. But what stole the show was Lormac and Asherah. I was kind of mad that Lormac wasn't real because he is absolutely perfect. A powerful king that has every excuse to be self-centered and demanding, but he is caring and gentle and LOVES Asherah more than anything. Lest I only mention the love-y parts of the story *sheepish grin*, the entire plot is fantastic and original. Plain and simple, I just thought this book was great.

For any readers that might be hesitant to read the sometimes-daunting genre of Fantasy, I think this is a good one to pick up. There's nothing too complicated as far as the world-building goes, which leaves you free to enjoy the characters and their stories.

Publication Date: August 9, 2011
Genre: Adult, Fantasy, Romance
Source: Thanks to the author, Jennifer Allis Provost, for my review copy.

Review: Sacrifice by Alexandrea Weis

Synopsis:
Nicci Beauvoir fell in love with the artist, David Alexander, in To My Senses, and then uncovered his killer in Recovery. Nicci is back to finally confront David’s dark past in Sacrifice. Stunned after seeing a man she believes to be her beloved David Alexander in a crowd outside of the St. Louis Cathedral, Nicci goes on a desperate hunt for the truth about David’s demise. But to get the information she desires, Nicci must team up with David’s former boss, the ruthless Simon La Roy. Nicci decides not to tell her fiancé, Dallas August, about her involvement with Simon. As Nicci becomes hopelessly entangled in Simon’s sinister plans, Dallas discovers her secret, and tries to protect her. But one night on a deserted French Quarter street, Nicci unexpectedly learns what really happened to David Alexander. Now she must engage in a deadly game of intrigue to keep what she has unearthed from Simon La Roy.

In a final confrontation, a revengeful Simon forces Nicci to choose between her life and revealing all that she has discovered. But what mystery is Nicci protecting and is it worth her future happiness? For Nicci there can be no happy ending unless she keeps what she knows about David Alexander hidden from the world. It’s a decision that will cost her everything. Is Nicci willing to pay the price? In the end, there can never be a happily ever after without a little…sacrifice.

Review:
I haven't read any mystery/romances in a while, but this one might get me started again. This is the third book in this series, but if you haven't read the other two you won't be lost. The author deftly catches new readers up without annoying the people that have read the other books :-)

From the opening scene, I was interested in the characters and the story. Nicci finds herself at her cousins wedding being harrassed by her family to marry Dallas. Nicci loves him but can't committ. Mainly because she is still in love with David . . . who has been dead for three years. This obviously complicates things. It's pretty hard to compete with someone that's dead and gone. Her character is in a battle with her emotions, heart and mind. Add in some intrigue and betrayal and the story is complete.

I read Sacrifice pretty quickly because I really wanted to find out what was going to happen. An entertaining book with a lot of great characters. I'll be interested to see where the next book takes Nicci.

Publication Date: October 1, 2011
Genre: Adult, Mystery, Romance
Source: Thanks to the author, Alexandrea Weis, for my review copy!