Review: "My Last Kiss" by Bethany Neal

Synopsis:

What if your last kiss was with the wrong boy?

Cassidy Haines remembers her first kiss vividly. It was on the old covered bridge the summer before her freshman year with her boyfriend of three years, Ethan Keys. But her last kiss--the one she shared with someone at her seventeenth birthday party the night she died--is a blur. Cassidy is trapped in the living world, not only mourning the loss of her human body, but left with the grim suspicion that her untimely death wasn't a suicide as everyone assumes. She can't remember anything from the weeks leading up to her birthday and she's worried that she may have betrayed her boyfriend.

If Cassidy is to uncover the truth about that fateful night and make amends with the only boy she'll ever love, she must face her past and all the decisions she made--good and bad--that led to her last kiss.

Bethany Neal's suspenseful debut novel is about the power of first love and the haunting lies that threaten to tear it apart.

*(summary courtesy of Goodreads)

My Review:

 

I swear, this should be a cautionary tale for those who cheat--- right beside Fatal Attraction. This is another book I randomly came upon while up to no good with my friend in Barnes and Noble. Don't ask; don't tell. I must've skimmed the synopsis on back, because if I had realized how much of a tear-jerker was I might not have bought it. I hate (in a good way) books that make me cry.

 

This was quite the emotional rollercoaster of a book. I'm not going to lie, I was in tears. The mystery of Cassidy's, the protagonist, death was indeed puzzling. As I have said before, I am very good at guessing how a book/movie will end, but I didn't see that ending coming--- and I guessed at least 50 times. I'm not pulling you guys' leg, either. The mystery was off the charts, and there was a bit of suspense thrown in  there as well. The best and my most favorite part was...*drum roll*... the characters.

 

I'm a character driven person; characters and how they are written or developed can make or break a book for me. The depth and development of these characters was off the charts. You will discover that there is  more than meets the eye and nothing is what it seems with each one of them. I loved the flaws Cassidy had, in which you realize she is just as flawed as the rest of us. And Ethan...Oh my goodness, it was both endearing and heartbreaking seeing the connection  he and Cassidy possessed, especially since they didn't exactly get the "HEA" we readers love to see.

 

The pain you see everyone going through in response to Cassidy's death broke my heart. I couldn't imagine how my mom would feel. Or Cassidy-- living in limbo like she was is a major drag. It also goes to show that not all "friends" are your real friends. You have to be careful with backstabbers---literally and figuratively. None the less, this was a great story and the ending was beautiful. However, I'm still trying to figure out if the people responsible for Cassidy's death are going to jail; it wasn't exactly clear. And it was slow torture watching Cassidy make her mistakes that would inevitably lead to her death. What a shame. But on the bright side...at least there weren't any boiled bunnies anywhere. See, there IS a silver lining!
 

358 pages

Published June 10th 2014 by Farrar, Straus and Giroux

 

Rating: 🔔 🔔 🔔 🔔

Recommend?   Yeah. But have a box of tissues nearby.

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Review: "Soulless" (Death Warden #1) by Amber Garr

Synopsis:

When it comes to death and love…only one is guaranteed.

Four decades ago Nora died. A tragic event for someone so young; however, four decades ago Nora was also given a second chance to walk among the living.

A Death Warden with a mysterious past, her job is to escort the newly expired towards the light, battling with the Soul Hunters who want the freshly dead to help with their own evil purposes buried in the dark.

When Nora’s charges suddenly become targets, she realizes that the hunters are after far more than just souls. A shift in power between good and evil threatens to change everything, risking the lives of the only family Nora has ever known.

Devastated and angry, she’s forced to face the man she once loved - a man who chose darkness over her - in order to find the answers she needs to stop the horror from escalating. Yet, while a lost relationship still haunts her broken heart, a new Warden with secrets of his own will enter the mix and quickly alter everything Nora believed to be true.

Death is unavoidable…but sometimes, so is love.

*(summary courtesy of Goodreads)

My Review:

I have no idea what it is about the afterlife that interests me: perhaps the idea of the unknown? Although I'm not that interested in finding out anytime soon lol. But seriously, I am liking the twist Ms Garr puts on her idea of the afterlife...it makes for a very interesting plot.

 

I just loved the so called "competition" between the Hunters and Wardens for souls. But not as much as Nora, our heroine, and Theron, the maybe antagonist, being on opposing sides! Especially with the two being former lovers; where else can you get drama this juicy? As I was saying, the rivalry almost seems better; at least you can decide to enter Heaven or Hell rather than the choice being taken from you (that's never fun).

The characters were alright: not extraordinary, but not horrible either. Charles was my favorite, though. He has the perfect timing for humor. Nora was a bit annoying when it came to Theron. I mean, he's the bad guy for the moment, so why are you meeting with him secretly? I get that she was with Theron for twenty-plus years, but your with Jason now, so stop stringing him along. Then again, I might do the same thing if I were in her shoes. Jason was adorable from the very first time he spoke with his southern twang. He and Nora are ridiculously cute!

  

My biggest complaint would be the length of this book: it's way too short. I wanted to see more of the plot and its development. It felt a bit too rushed for my liking. Also, I wanted more character development and romance build up. Other than that, it was a good paranormal read.

180 pages

Published August 23rd 2014 by Hallowed Ink Press

 

Rating:  🔔🔔🔔

Recommend?         Not bad. Worth a read

 

(ARC courtesy of Net Galley and Hallowed Ink Press)

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Review: "Hexed" (The Witch Hunter #1) by Michelle Krys

Synopsis:

 

If high school is all about social status, Indigo Blackwood has it made. Sure, her quirky mom owns an occult shop, and a nerd just won’t stop trying to be her friend, but Indie is a popular cheerleader with a football-star boyfriend and a social circle powerful enough to ruin everyone at school. Who wouldn’t want to be her?

Then a guy dies right before her eyes. And the dusty old family Bible her mom is freakishly possessive of is stolen. But it’s when a frustratingly sexy stranger named Bishop enters Indie’s world that she learns her destiny involves a lot more than pom-poms and parties. If she doesn’t get the Bible back, every witch on the planet will die. And that’s seriously bad news for Indie, because according to Bishop, she’s a witch too.

Suddenly forced into a centuries-old war between witches and sorcerers, Indie’s about to uncover the many dark truths about her life—and a future unlike any she ever imagined on top of the cheer pyramid.
*(summary courtesy of Goodreads)

My Review:
 

This is another book I came across while at Barnes & Noble. The cover (as always) captured my attention from down the aisle, and then I read the premise...(dun dun dunnn). It sounded good at first, buuuuut (<--and that's a big but) I'm just not feeling it.

The story was...I am not sure what the story was actually because the plot was ridiculous. To be fairly honest, it was child's play: basically the cliche that if the heroine doesn't get the bible back everyone is doomed. Then later, you come to find out it was all for nothing. By the end I was wondering why I was still reading this book. There's hardly any cool witchcraft, powers, plot, romance, awesome characters...

 

And for the love of all that is holy! The characters were so one dimensional. I was in a constant state of rolling my eyes; especially at the protagonist. Indigo is a vapid little cheerleader. Funny how she says she has the third highest GPA in her class...Ummmm, what school are you going to? And it doesn't count if you ride the short bus, sweetie. I swear, during the entire book she was a spineless, airheaded nitwit. First she blabs about the bible even though she knows to keep it secret, then she makes the bad guys "promise" to let her go. I mean, really? She's in LA, not Beverly Hills, get a brain and a backbone while your at it, girl!! Plus, the added romance/tension/whatever it is between Bishop and Indie was corny as hell. A major cheese-fest.

I tried sticking with this book, but I honestly couldn't wait for it to be over. The characters were nothing special, the plot was pointless and by the end I was like "where is the magic and witchcraft?". Here, let me help you out Indigo---Abracadabra..BE GONE! LOL, if only...(a girl can dream right?)

 

Favorite Quotes:

 

"It's all right." He looks out the window. "She's just pulling a Bella."

"A what?"

"A Bella. You know--guy does you wrong, so you punish him by practically killing yourself."

"Nooo" she says, throwing as much sarcasm into the word as humanly possible, "you definitely want to run toward the axe murderer."
 

384 pages

Published June 10th 2014 by Delacorte Press

Rating:   🔔
 

Recommend?   Oh hell no.

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Review: "Dark Sacrifice" (Dark Paradise #2) by Angie Sandro

Synopsis:

 

A GIFT AND A CURSE

Mala LaCroix sees dead people—really. After using her psychic gifts to catch a killer, she's locked in a psych ward and must strike a deal with the devil to secure her release. Apprenticed to a dark arts practitioner, Mala vows to free herself and save her loved ones from danger. But she doesn't know who to turn to when her crush on Landry Prince turns into something more serious.

A FATE WORSE THAN DEATH

Landry has sacrificed everything to protect Mala. A near-death experience changes him forever, and now he, too, possesses supernatural powers he doesn't understand. Mala and Landry must band together to defeat the dark forces—both human and otherworldly—who would use their abilities for evil. Even as they fall for each other, they must prepare to battle for their very souls . . .

*(summary courtesy of Goodreads)

 

My Review:

I have been impatiently waiting for the sequel to Dark Paradise for months now, and I finally had the chance to read it the other day. You all have no idea how eager I was to be immersed into the world Sandro has created once again, especially after the cliffhanger (that should be illegal) from the last book.
 

This book picks up where the last one ended, thankfully. On a side note, I dislike sequels that do a time skip from the previous book ending. Back to the story: honestly this book is better than the first, in my opinion. The story is progressing nicely, and has that certain "creep" factor that Sandro seems to pull of effortlessly. The reader soon discovers that the problems from the last book are far from over in book two. The situations the characters found themselves in were very grave.
 

Speaking of characters, there are some new ones introduced. Not to mention, the characters we know from the previous novel have matured a bit (thankfully). I'm glad to see Mala act her age and not her shoe size. Her back and forth indecisiveness was grating on my nerves, and I'm also glad she gave Landry another chance. Oh Landry...(swoon). I love him  so much. His protectiveness of Mala was sweet and it's good to see him taking responsibility for his less-than-stellar choices in the past. The overall togetherness of the two was amazing! I did indeed like their "special" scene (wink wink), as well as how they finally started working together like a team and admitted their feelings to each other. Enough with the mushy love stuff! Aunt Magnolia is so...wicked! I. Loved. It. She scares me, but I just love her character and her no nonsense attitude (she reminds me of my grandma).
 

So I'm really trying to not give too much of the plot away, but I didn't see that ending coming! And what is going on with Landry? I wonder what's going to happen next, and when Mala is going to turn into a bada** modern version of Marie Laveau? I'm still waiting and the anticipation for book 3 is killing me (in the most sweetest of ways).

 

352 pages

Published August 12th 2014 by Forever Yours
 

Rating:  🔔🔔🔔🔔
 

Recommend?    Most Definitely
  

(ARC courtesy of Net Galley and Forever Yours Publishing)

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Review: "Trial by Fire" (The Worldwalker Trilogy #1) by Josephine Angelini

Synopsis:

This world is trying to kill Lily Proctor. Her life-threatening allergies keep her from enjoying experiences that others in her hometown of Salem take for granted, which is why she is determined to enjoy her first high school party with her best friend and longtime crush, Tristan. But after a humiliating incident in front of half her graduating class, Lily wishes she could just disappear.

Suddenly, Lily is in a different Salem—one overrun with horrifying creatures and ruled by powerful women called Crucibles. Strongest and cruelest of them all is Lillian . . . Lily's other self in this alternate universe.

What makes Lily weak at home is what makes her extraordinary in New Salem. In this confusing world, Lily is torn between responsibilities she can't hope to shoulder alone and a love she never expected.

                                                                                               *(summary courtesy of Goodreads)

My Review:

I love the idea of multiple dimensions/worlds and versions of yourself. So, naturally, it should come as no shock why I was drawn to this book. Besides, it has witches and not your grand papi's witches. SALEM witches--the original O.G witches. On a side note, I love the cover...so wicked cool!

I wasn't sure if I was going to love these characters--I'm a reader who likes to see some depth and character development. I don't like to take them at face value...there needs to be substance, as characters can make or break a book for me. I'm not saying that these ones are deeper than  the deep, blue sea, but they each have a little backstory that is revealed as the story unfolds and progresses the overall plot. These characters were very real and relatable--with flaws; yet they were trying to b e better than their past mistakes. I understood Rowan; his anger and unwillingness to forgive and forget. Lillian was also a trip to read. I am very curious as to why she's doing what she is, and just what did she see in another dimensional world. Tristan and Caleb were some pretty funny friends and character foils. Lily is pretty amazing as well. She's like a breath of fresh air with her easygoing but fierce attitude. Every once in a while I will root for the bad guys, i.e Carrick and Gideon. This is not one of those times. But I would like to understand what Carrick's motivation for his deeds are...I already know Gideon's.

Back to the story, it's pretty engaging and doesn't stray too far into fantasy: it has a decent fusion between fantasy and reality. I definitely got lost into the world that Josephine Angelini has created, and I want to go back (I'm impatiently awaiting the second book in the series)! Admittedly, I'm really liking where this story is heading and the message it's sending about nuclear weapons: they're catastrophic. Anyways,  I enjoyed the sexual tension between Lily and Rowan, and the gradual relationship from enemies to friends to lovers. Ahh! Young love...

This book will make you ponder on the likeliness of alternate worlds, and just who you may or not be if you were to travel to a different one. Would I be smarter or dumber? Less athletic? More sickly? Who knows! What I do know is this book is good.

384 pages

Expected publication: September 2nd 2014 by Feiwel & Friends

Rating:  🔔🔔🔔🔔

Recommend?   Yes, I do. I do. I do.

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Review: "Love by Design" by Evie Knight

Synopsis:

Rules are meant to be broken… only, he chooses which ones to break.

Renowned, self-taught baker Tristan James has everything going for him. Great friends. Women. Business success. His ultimate goal is to host his own TV show. All is perfect… until Mandy walks into his life. Tristan fears she’ll make him unearth the secrets he keeps.

She plays by the rules.

Amanda Roberts dreams of becoming a famous shoe designer, but her insecurities stand between her and her dream. She’s ready to give up when Tristan dares her to pursue her goal. Falling prey to his charms isn’t something she counts on, yet it’s unavoidable.

As their dreams finally become a reality, they must choose between love or the opportunity of a lifetime.

*(summary courtesy of Goodreads)

 

My Review:

This was a cute little love story. By "little" I mean it was actually too short in my opinion (and I don't mean the rapper). It is somewhat of a good thing since this story didn't need to be any more drawn out than necessary. Overall, the book had a lot of potential that was a bit wasted if you ask me.

 

It seemed to be a story of never-ending drama. Every two seconds, Tristan and Mandy seemed to be getting into a squabble over something. Usually you wouldn't see a major argument until the climax of the story, but in here the arguments are EVERYWHERE! And they are quite inane, by the way.

The story itself felt way too rushed. The pacing was off and not enough build up. The numerous conflicts just seemed to spring up out of nowhere and become major issues for the characters, and then be resolved just as quick. The plot was also predictable.

It was difficult for me to connect with the characters because they were so silly and not written with enough depth. It felt more like the author was "telling" about the characters, rather than "showing" me and letting me feel their emotions. The best part is probably the sex scenes...pretty sensual.

I really would like to give this book a higher rating, but it needs some work. As I said before, it had potential but didn't really act upon it correctly.

224 pages

Published July 16th 2014 by ILwR

 

Rating:  🔔🔔🔔  

Recommend?    It is average at best.

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Review: "Demons" (Darkness #4) by K.F. Breene

Synopsis:

It’s been a long road, but Sasha has finally claimed her role as the least knowledge mage in history. She’s also acquired a new, incredibly grumpy bodyguard, and a spunky new BFF. With her team by her side, she learns the ropes of this new profession.

Her experience level is about to be fast-tracked, however.

On a routine trip to check out a perimeter breach, she encounters a hideous demon called by an experienced magic worker. It is this terrifying discovery that unlocks a deeper problem: Stefan’s troubled past and the reason he gravely mistrusts the Mata.

While Sasha struggles to fight the physical demons, Stefan struggles to fight the demons of his past. If he fails, his future in Sasha will be lost.

*(summary courtesy of Goodreads)

My Review:

I LOVE this series! The humor, the characters, the steamy scenes, fight scenes...everything! I swear I obsessively stalk the author's Goodreads page for any and all info and updates for the next book in the series. And to think I just randomly came upon this series in the Apple app store.

So in this book we see Sasha really try to get a hold of her immense power, as well as step up as the new co-leader. There's a new introduction of paranormal species if you can call it that: witches. I am not too fond of these new characters, but they do somewhat help balance Sasha, even if they are annoying. Also, Sasha annoyed me in this book. The demon is obviously trying to lure her in by speaking to her, so that way  it can steal her powers. And what does she do? She talks to it. I'm upset that she nearly got everyone killed!

As always, my favorite character was Charles; I just love his humor and I totally want a friend like him in my life. Surprisingly Jonas is starting to grow on me as well. The action is pretty good, and it has plenty of plot twists. The reader gets to see more of the uber hot Stefan and Sasha have their "alone time". Without giving too much away to you all, I'll leave you with this line concerning the story...."the plot thickens". Muah ha ha (Evil Laugh)

Favorite Quotes:

"It was like an extended honeymoon period with him--part of me wanted to just hang out in the same room and stare at him while drool dribbled down my chin." - Sasha

"Yes, Jonas, but Toa gave me a giant scroll on linking. A scroll Jonas. He thinks that if I study a five-hundred-year-old document, I'll figure something out. Spoiler alert: I haven't." -Sasha

"What's up Sasha? Cramps?" - Charles

"Nah. But I hang out with a guy that does. Ever notice that smokers never seem to have a lighter on them?' - Ann

173 pages

Published July 19th 2014

Rating:  🔔🔔🔔🔔   

Recommend?  Yes, but read the first three! You'll thank me later...

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Review: "The Bodies We Wear" (The Bodies We Wear #1) by Jeyn Roberts

Synopsis:

A streetwise girl trains to take on a gang of drug dealers and avenge her best friend’s death in this thriller for fans of Scott Westerfeld and Robin Wasserman.

People say when you take Heam, your body momentarily dies and you catch a glimpse of heaven. Faye was only eleven when dealers forced Heam on her and her best friend, Christian. But Faye didn’t glimpse heaven—she saw hell. And Christian died.

Now Faye spends her days hiding her secret from the kids at school, and her nights training to take revenge on the men who destroyed her life and murdered her best friend. But life never goes the way we think it will. When a mysterious young man named Chael appears, Faye's plan suddenly gets a lot more complicated. Chael seems to know everything about her, including her past. But too many secrets start tearing her world apart: trouble at school, with the police, and with the people she thought might be her friends. Even Gazer, her guardian, fears she's become too obsessed with vengeance. Love and death. Will Faye overcome her desires, or will her quest for revenge consume her?

(*summary courtesy of Goodreads)

 

 

My Review:

 

When first reading the premise, I had envisioned a Kill Bill-esque, teenage book. I love a good, old testament story, where the protagonist is a total alpha female! Unfortunately this book wasn't as good as I had hoped.

 

The story just dragged on and on; the only thing that kept me from putting the book down was the anticipation of the "revenge" part of the plot actually jumpstarting. Every single time Faye mentioned revenge and killing, I kept thinking "put up or shut up!" All I seemed to be reading was either: a) Faye was training; b) Faye was at school; or c) Faye was interacting with Gazer or Chael. Those were basically the main scenarios throughout the story.

 

Speaking of Chael, every time I heard this name, I thought of Chael Sonnen LOL. He seemed like a nice guy who really cared about Faye; the situation of how he was able to take possession of another body was a bit freaky though. Also, I find it amusing that I was able to guess who he really was before Faye. Strange, seeing as she is supposed to notice every minute detail and recognize familiarity- I mean, she is a supposed "assassin". Faye was an okay but average character. I didn't really feel any particular way about her. Although at times, I did admire her bravery and pride. I did enjoy, albeit more than I should have, how she could kick some butt! I would have to say that Gazer was my favorite character; he was realistic about wanting revenge and just seemed like someone I would want to be my dad.

 

While reading, it was unfortunate to learn of how they, the fictional characters, treat Heam users. I did feel like it was an injustice, almost like the whole civil rights issue but not as worse. There's a romance element to the story between Chael and Faye, which felt unnecessary. It basically felt forced and threw the story off track. Maybe I will see the whole point of the romance aspect by the next book. It also seemed to me that every scene Chael and Faye shared, the former was trying to talk the latter out of killing. It makes me wonder if the author was trying to bait those interested in revenge/killing stories, and the talk about forgiveness in a "I'm shaking my finger at you reproachfully, while reprimanding you on your behavior" way.

 

Never the less, I still generally liked that there was a lesson to learn about the power of forgiveness, and I am glad Faye finally learned it. I was pleased that, for the most part, things worked out for Faye. I can't this book was exceptional, but it wasn't horrible either.

 

Favorite Quotes:

 

"I've made more hateful," he argues back. "All I wanted to do was give you confidence. Help you grow stronger so you'd be prepared if you were attacked again. Until you can let go of that hate, only then will you be ready." - Gazer

 

368 pages

Expected publication: September 23rd 2014 by Knopf Books for Young Readers

Rating:  🔔🔔🔔

Recommend:   It was okay. Possibly would recommend.

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Review: "Try Me On for Size" by Stephanie Haefner

Synopsis:

 

A sexy, laugh-out-loud love story about a woman trying to save her failing lingerie business with a new product - personal massagers - made to the specs of the spokesman of her choice! But when she falls for the first model she meets, how can she prove she's his perfect fit?

With their business in trouble, Mia and Bryn must pull out all the stops to save their shop. Things get sticky when Mia, owner of Classy n' Sassy Lingerie, has to go on five blind "dates" to find the right model for the big marketing plan that will save the store. But they aren't your ordinary blind dates. Mia has to test out the "goods" to find the perfect spokespenis - the model for Classy n' Sassy's newest line of lifelike dildos.

Not realizing Mia is on a mission, Oliver Christensen approaches her in a bar and Mia mistakes him for model #1. Oliver decides to play along. But just how far is he willing to take this charade in order to get closer to Mia? And what happens if Mia's Blind Date #1 turns out to be The One?

(*summary courtesy of Goodreads)

 

 

My Review:

 

This stand alone novel is super cute! I had an inkling that this book was going to be good, so I am glad that it delivered what it promised. The story was goofy and funny, and has a romantic angle I have yet to read about or see in the movies. I wonder if anyone has

 

The characters were relatable, as well as likable. I especially liked Mia's best friend Bryn; she was hilarious and so down-to-earth. I'm a little envious, as I wish I had a BFF like Bryn; she was supportive of Mia, but put her in her place when the situation called for it. I liked Mia and her humor, but when it came to relationships and what she expects out of them and her romantic partner, she was a tad too unrealistic with expecting perfection. Why should she expect a 100% perfect man when she's only an 80% perfect woman? If a man is that perfect, he will look for an equally perfect woman- which she is not. Besides, perfection is overrated, and no such thing exists when dealing with people- at least in my opinion.

 

However, Oliver should have never lied in the first place; although I'm not sure if he and Mia would have ever happened otherwise. His almost fiancé and "baby mama", Alexiana, was such a witch (replace the "w" with a "b"). The combination of her fake pregnancy, blackmailing and public humiliation of Oliver was too much to bear. Speaking of which, I never understood why in books the son/daughter choose to stay with their partner, who makes them unhappy, in order to please their parents or keep them happy. I totally get that Oliver just didn't want to worry and disappoint his mother, but if she really loved him, she would be happy as long as he is happy. I am so glad that happened to be the case.

 

This novel reminded me that family can be overrated. A lot of people these days say "family this and family that", but I believe that loyalty makes you family; blood makes you related. Mia and Oliver were seriously facing their own versions of this within their own family. I was glad to see that Mia had a backbone early on, and not cave to the pressure her family was putting on her; I was absolutely floored by that! Mia's sister was incredibly selfish; so much that I was flabbergasted the blatancy of it.

 

Thankfully everyone received their karma and pretty much everything was resolved. I teared up near the end, so expect to too- even if you're the Tin Man! The sexual scenes were steamy and a-plenty; definitely drool-worthy. I still think Mia and Bryn's business venture was ingenious- why didn't I think of that? Anyways, this was a really cute book with some great humor. I liked it a lot.

 

Favorite Quotes:

 

"An hour earlier, she may have been stupid enough to think she could still be apart of this family, but she certainly has smartened up. She'd taken all she could and wouldn't be making the same mistake again."

 

"Are talking about this Oliver?" A male customer in line asked. "Cause, honey, with a body like that, you're either a lesbian or a big fat liar".

 

"I'm famished," Mia said snagging a snack and a kiss from Oliver.

"Lucky bitch," the guy at the front of the line mumbled. Mia turned and met his sly grin.

"You know it!"

 

288 pages

Published August 11th 2014 by Pocket Star

 

 

Rating:  🔔🔔🔔🔔

 

Recommend?    A good and funny read! Oh yeah!

 

 

 

(ARC courtesy of Net Galley and Pocket Star)

 

 

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Review: "The Secrets of Life and Death" by Rebecca Alexander

Synopsis:

 

In modern day England, Professor Felix Guichard is called in to identify occult symbols found on the corpse of a young girl. His investigation brings him in contact with a mysterious woman, Jackdaw Hammond, who guards a monumental secret--She's Dead. Or she would be, were it not for magic which has artificially extended her life. But someone else knows her secret. Someone very old and very powerful, who won't rest until they've taken the magic that keeps her alive....
In Krakow in 1585, Dr John Dee, the Elizabethan Alchemist and Occultist, and his assistant Edward Kelley have been summoned by the King of Poland to save the life of his niece, the infamous Countess Elisabeth Bathory. But they soon realize that the only thing worse than the Countess' malady, is the magic that might be able to save her...
As Jackdaw and Felix race to uncover the truth about the person hunting her, it becomes clear that the answers they seek can only be found in the ancient diary of John Dee's assistant, Edward Kelley. Together they must solve a mystery centuries in the making, or die trying.

*(summary courtesy of Goodreads)

 

My Review:

This book started off with a bang! I'm starting to notice a pattern, though: lately, books have been based on some historical event. This one is based on the murderess Countess Elizabeth Bathory. I've been secretly stalking this book for months now, as it wasn't available in the U.S until recently. Every thing about this book was amazing: the characters, the setting, the premise, the dog (I'm just kidding about that last one...kind of).

I loved that one of the primary settings was in Transylvania-I've always wanted to go there! Transylvania doesn't disappoint, with it's gypsies, bloodsuckers and witches; it's uber spooky! The story jumps back and forth between the past and present-which I liked because the author chooses to lead the reader to all the magnificent discoveries and unveilings by writing this way. In the beginning of each "past" chapter, is a journal entry by Edward Kelley.

The characters were relatable for the most part, and I really got to know them by the end of the book. Sadie was annoying with her incessant whining and schemes. I kept thinking "you must want to die". Felix was pretty cool and thank God, not a total douche (you never know with characters these days!). I felt bad for Felix, though; he's a victim to a cheater of an ex-wife who's also an opportunist, in my opinion. Jack was also super cool. My favorite character is Ches, "man's best friend". Who can resist an adorable doggy? Doctor Dee and Edward Kelley were just foolish- they should have known the ritual they performed was demonic when Edward started spouting demon names! All I know is, Edward should have been exorcised stat!

The ending was bittersweet and realistic. I'm not sure how there could have been a happily-ever-after anyways. I was pleased to see the parents of Sadie and Jack get closure for the pain they have endured. I'm still scratching my head over the countess' death- how was she not able to handle the fire elemental if she's possessed  by an evil entity? I have no idea, but the book was good.

Favorite Quotes:

"He may try to wrap himself in the blessings of Rome," he whispered, "but the Bathorys are cursed. Why else would he need a sorcerer's spells and talismans? You know the Devil's own magical letters, that is why you were invited here."

I stepped back from the reach of the man's stink. "We have been blessed by angels who have spoken wisdoms to us," I said, with some anger, "Those angels affirmed that Jesus was the son of God."

"And demons cannot lie?" he chuckled.

"Witchcraft?" I was appalled of the idea. While as a man, I might dabble in powerful natural forces such as alchemy, everyone knows witches attract the devil himself with the sinfulness of the female nature.

He smiled without mirth, "God may direct me there, and I pray that he does. But you, sir, are guided by Satan himself, if you create an undead queen for these lands."

384 pages

Expected publication: October 7th 2014 by Broadway Books

 

Rating:  🔔🔔🔔🔔

 

Recommend?   If you don't mind the presence of the supernatural, then

                            yes.

 

(ARC courtesy of Broadway Books and Net Galley)

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Review: "Mortal Danger" (Immortal Game #1) by Ann Aguirre

 

Synopsis:

 

Revenge is a dish best served cold.

Edie Kramer has a score to settle with the beautiful people at Blackbriar Academy. Their cruelty drove her to the brink of despair, and four months ago, she couldn't imagine being strong enough to face her senior year. But thanks to a Faustian compact with the enigmatic Kian, she has the power to make the bullies pay. She's not supposed to think about Kian once the deal is done, but devastating pain burns behind his unearthly beauty, and he's impossible to forget.

In one short summer, her entire life changes, and she sweeps through Blackbriar, prepped to take the beautiful people down from the inside. A whisper here, a look there, and suddenly... bad things are happening. It's a heady rush, seeing her tormentors get what they deserve, but things that seem too good to be true usually are, and soon, the pranks and payback turns from delicious to deadly. Edie is alone in a world teeming with secrets and fiends lurking in the shadows. In this murky morass of devil's bargains, she isn't sure who—or what--she can trust. Not even her own mind...

*(summary courtesy of Goodreads)

 

My Review:

When I initially read the synopsis, I was stoked for what had to be greatness. I am and always have been for an good, old testament revenge story. Despite my heady fascination with the premise, the book was just "okay". Don't get me wrong, the first half was really addicting; the second half not so much.

 

I have to say that the cover for this book was just delicious and edgy. I almost want it as a tattoo. Anyways, can I just say how lucky Edie, the protagonist, is to be getting a second chance at life pending her three wishes? Add to that, her "genie in a bottle" is the sexy Kian. Where was my fairy Godmother when I was that depressed? Okay maybe "lucky" isn't the right word, as nothing in life is without a price. I know that from experience, and Edie really should have known better.

Her wishes were just ridiculous, with maybe the exception of her first wish...maybe. For someone so smart, you would think she would consider every aspect of a decision before making it, or be logical when it came to who to trust and how people were getting murdered. Oh no...that is just too like right. If she's so smart, she should have wished for more wishes; Kian never said that was forbidden LOL. At the very least she should have wished for superpowers to combat the bad guys!

Edie was an alright character, but her wishy-washy tendencies were aggravating to read. Especially her saying she hopes so-and-so dies, and then she's shocked that their dead. Really now? Did you not think your words have power now? I don't know why she didn't figure it out after the first murder. I more or less favored Kian. He seemed to be the most interesting character in the entire book because of his past.

The best part was the suspense. Every time a character was murdered though, I kept waiting for the other shoe to drop to reveal who was next. There was a lot of death in this book and not everyone who died deserved it. On another note, I always thought that the infinity sign was good luck in Asian culture? I guess not. The big reveal of who was controlling this "wish" game was not what I was expecting. I can't say for sure if that's a good or bad thing, yet. I'll just have to wait and see until the next book.

Favorite Quote:

"You know it's true. People who just got their money always act the worst about it. They wants so badly to be accepted by the blue bloods, to hang out with the right crowd-" -Davina

384 pages

Published August 5th 2014 by Feiwel & Friends

 

Rating:  🔔🔔🔔

Recommend?         It's okay. Maybe worth a read

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Review: "Snow Like Ashes" (Snow Like Ashes #1) by Sara Raasch

Synopsis:

A heartbroken girl. A fierce warrior. A hero in the making.

Sixteen years ago the Kingdom of Winter was conquered and its citizens enslaved, leaving them without magic or a monarch. Now, the Winterians’ only hope for freedom is the eight survivors who managed to escape, and who have been waiting for the opportunity to steal back Winter’s magic and rebuild the kingdom ever since.

Orphaned as an infant during Winter’s defeat, Meira has lived her whole life as a refugee, raised by the Winterians’ general, Sir. Training to be a warrior—and desperately in love with her best friend, and future king, Mather — she would do anything to help her kingdom rise to power again.

So when scouts discover the location of the ancient locket that can restore Winter’s magic, Meira decides to go after it herself. Finally, she’s scaling towers, fighting enemy soldiers, and serving her kingdom just as she’s always dreamed she would. But the mission doesn’t go as planned, and Meira soon finds herself thrust into a world of evil magic and dangerous politics – and ultimately comes to realize that her destiny is not, never has been, her own.*(summary courtesy of Goodreads)

 

My Review:

 

I have to say that at first this book was of to a slow start. But it started getting really good once I kept reading. The story was fantastic and amazing, and reminded me of a likeness of George R. R. Martin's A Song of Ice and Fire series.

 

My liking of the protagonist, Meira, was kind of off and on; sometimes I liked her fierceness, and sometimes I thought she was acting too much like a brat. I loved Theron and I hope that's who Meira ends up with at the endgame. His thoughtfulness and supportive nature made me swoon. He truly makes Meira a better person. Mather is weak, and if he truly loved Meira he wouldn't have betrayed her in the way that he did. All I know is, Meira better not end up with Mather or I will be pissed.

 

The revelations towards the end weren't surprising, as I had already guessed it (I'm good at guessing how a story will end) but it was still great. The end battles were written very well. The treatment of the Winter people reminded me of Avatar: The Last Air Bender. I definitely can't wait to read more.

Favorite Quotes:

"This" I lower my chakram. It's now aimed at the captain's left thigh. "They gave it to me and said throw! I don't even know how it works-" - Meira

There will always be a they in your life, Meira. They make decisions; they mold your future. The trick is to find a way to still be you through it all" - Theron

432 pages

Expected publication: October 14th 2014 by Balzer + Bray

 

Rating: 🔔🔔🔔🔔

Recommend? Worth a read.

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Review: "Children of the Morning" by Shanna Lauffey

Synopsis:

The Time Shifters are in danger. Someone wants what they have and are willing to kill if necessary to get it.

Akalya couldn’t hide in the past forever. The time has come to untangle the threads of a conspiracy so sinister that her very life hangs in the balance, as well as the lives of all of her kind.

Compelled by her promise to help Marcus, the half-breed, to learn to control his abilities, Akalya is conflicted by the need to go underground to elude the rich entrepreneur who continues to seek out others of her kind that even Akalya doesn’t know about, and the mysterious researcher working behind the scenes who already came too close to dissecting her best friend.

Akalya cannot leave, but she cannot stay. Most of all she must see that no more of her kind breed mutants like Marcus, who could become a danger to them all.
*(summary courtesy of Goodreads)

My Review:

 

Thankfully this book was longer than its predecessor, so we get to see more of the characters and story. The writing is pretty good as well, however I wish there was more dialogue between the characters.

The story progresses very nicely, and we get to see more of the antagonists and their true intentions. I was glad to see more of Marcus and learn a little more about him. The introduction of new characters was well done, and kind of cool. I envy Akalya's ability to time travel.

 

Speaking of which, the further explanation of this story's time travel is becoming intriguing; I'm looking forward to learning more. The story is seriously demonstrating how people would condemn and defile those who have abilities. On another note, this novella series reminds me of The Tomorrow People and Jumper.

Published July 20th 2014

Rating: 🔔🔔🔔🔔

 

Recommend?  Yeah, it's a good series

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Review: "Darkness" by Erin Eveland

Synopsis:

 

One Girl. One Boy. And the Masters of Darkness. See the Shadow Creatures. They are everywhere. But you can't run from the shadows or the Masters who control them.

Catherine has been born with a supernatural power called Darkness. The Masters of Darkness have found her and it's just a matter of time before someone claims her.

An Interactive Novel
A QR Code starts the beginning of each chapter connecting the reader to specific art or music that ties into the mood and setting of the novel. Using the quick response code in print and eBook formatting, Darkness incorporates visual and sound to heighten the reading experience.
*(summary courtesy of Goodreads)

 

My Review:

First and foremost, I haven't tried out the QR code thing. Embarrassing enough, I don't know how to activate it, so at a later date I will get back to you all about it.

Anyways, the premise was very interesting. I've actually heard that people can see the "shadow people" in real life. So naturally, I had to read this book. Aside from the characters, Darkness didn't let me down; it was engaging. I shouldn't have read this at night though, because I started feeling like I had the heebie-jeebies. I can officially state that I am now afraid of the shadow creatures.

I would give this book a higher rating, but the characters really drove it down a bit. I just could not understand their logic. Catherine and Nathan are a match made in heaven because both are incredibly naive and foolish. Nathan meets the mysterious man in black, and he immediately tells this guy a bunch of information about EVERYTHING! One would think you would stay away from a guy who's dangerous, talks of weilding darkness and wants you to call him "master". Nope. Not Nathan. Then you have Catherine, after Jorgen put a protection necklace on her, wants him to take it off because the "master" said he'll hurt Nathan if she keeps it on. Obviously the "master" has something to gain from the removal of the necklace. And then when she's safe, she wants to run back to the "master" to save Nathan. What a genius she is. You have to save yourself first before saving another...duh!

 

Aside from the irrtating writing of the characters, the book is really good. It's a little trippy though- like I went on a bad trip thanks to shrooms or LSD. The end battle was amazingly written, by the way.

320 pages

Published July 1st 2014 by Selladore Press

 

Rating: 🔔🔔🔔🔔

Recommend?  Of course

 

(ARC courtesy of Net Galley and Selladore Press)

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Review: "Facing the Music" by Andrea Laurence

Synopsis:

 

In this sizzling and hilarious contemporary e-book romance, pop sensation Ivy Hudson returns to her small town to face her ex. Only trouble is, she made her Taylor-Swift-like career with the hit song “Size Matters”—and the football hero has had to live it down ever since.

Five years ago, high school sweethearts Ivy and Blake’s relationship imploded and both their lives were changed forever. Ivy became a rock star and Blake lost not only his dreams of a successful NFL career, but his reputation. Ivy’s angry song about their breakup, called “Size Matters,” hit the top of the charts and Blake became a national laughingstock. He’s salvaged his career and returned to Rosewood to be the high school football coach, regaining his status as town hero and leading the boys to the state championships.

When a tornado whips through town and destroys the high school gymnasium and stadium, a committee is formed to help rebuild and plan some charity fundraisers. Blake’s grandmother requests that Ivy return to Rosewood for the events. Forced back together for the good of their hometown and their careers, Ivy and Blake have no choice but to put aside their differences, stop running from their pasts, and finally face the music.

For fans of Kristen Proby and Colette Auclair, Facing the Music hits a perfect balance between small-town romance and big-time success. Follow Ivy and Blake as they fall back in love and figure out what does matter in the end…

*(summary courtesy of Goodreads)

My Review:

I had my reservations about this book, but I am glad to say that I really enjoyed this book.  The chemistry! Oh my, it was like....wow.  This may e just a book, but I could see the fireworks go off every time Blake and Ivy were in a scene together. 

 

Romance? Check.

Sexy and sultry guy?  Most definitely check.

Drama? I could do without it, but yes..check?

And everything else in-between the sheets?  Check and check.

 

The plot was very captivating.  I have never read a book where the woman humiliates her love interest, but it was amazing!...in some ways.  I wish Ivy's character wasn't the fictionalized equivalent to Taylor Swift.  I'm not really a fan of hers, and I feel that she plays the victim way too often for a woman in her mid 20s.  Yeah I said it! 

 

Anyways, it's a little hard for me to believe that Ivy "didn't know" the public would think her song "Size Matters" was referring to Blake's size, if you know what I mean.  What did Ivy expect the song's title to allude to? Height? Countries? T-Rex?

 

Blake is probably my favorite part of the entire book.  He's so swoon worthy, with the exception of his past transgression.  It's a bummer the Ivy's song acted as a catalyst for all things to go wrong in his life.  His brothers are totally awesome as well.

 

Lydia was just a conniving little wretch.  She's like a raccoon, she get's into everyone's business and just won't leave.  The Grandma was like all nosy grandmothers: they think they know best, and probably do.  I didn't like how she kept chastising Blake for some of the things Ivy was at fault for.  Then again, maybe she was trying to get him to man-up.  Towards the end, I felt like Ivy should have done some of the chasing.  She was the one who fled without hearing reason.  You don't run away and hide from your lover; you fight for him.  At least that's my opinion.  There aren't many love scenes in this book, but it doesn't take away from the story at all.

 

250 pages

Expected publication: September 15th 2014 by Pocket Star

Rating:  🔔🔔🔔🔔

 

Recommend?  Yes.

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Review: "Unwept" (The Nightbirds #1) by Tracy Hickman, Laura Hickman

Synopsis:

Gamin, Maine, is a remote seaside town where everyone seems to know Ellis Harkington better than she knows herself—but she doesn’t remember any of them.

Unknown events have robbed Ellis of her memory. Concerned individuals, who purport to be her friends and loved ones, insist that she simply needs to recuperate, that her memories may return in time, but refuse to divulge what has brought her to this state. For her own sake, so they say.

Ellis finds herself adrift in a town of ominous mysteries, cryptic hints, and disturbingly familiar strangers. The Nightbirds, a clique of fashionable young men and women, claim her as one of their own, but who among them can she truly trust? And what of the phantom suitor who visits her in her dreams? Is he a memory, a figment of her imagination, or a living nightmare beyond rational explanation?
Only her lost past hold the answers she seeks—if she can uncover its secrets before she fall prey to an unearthly killer.

*(summary courtesy of Goodreads)

My Review:

 

I really thought this might be good, but unfortunately it wasn't.  I feel like I was bamboozled.  I almost don't know where to start with this book.

 

The pacing was way too slow.  I was bored to tears at first, and very nearly put the book down.  The characters were lackluster and unremarkable.  It felt like a chore just finishing the book.  The twist near the end of the book was kind of random, honestly.  The whole book left me feeling crazy myself.

 

Ellis was just too passive aggressive, which infuriates me.  I get that she is supposed to be suffering from some sort of amnesia, but dont act like you remember something and then backtrack later.  Merrick needs to calm his butt down and quit acting like the smug, psycho dentist creeping around with ether.  Jenny needs to take a hint and quit acting like a dog in heat.  And every other character should just get a life. Oh right, easier said than done in this book. 

 

I kept asking myself what was going every couple of pages.  This story was hard to follow and not well written if I might add.  The flow wasn't smooth at all.  Too bland for my tastes.

272 pages

Published July 1st 2014 by Tor Books

Rating:  🔔🔔

 

Recommend?    Not really.

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