Monday, December 15, 2014

Review: UnSouled


UnSouled
UnSouled by Neal Shusterman

My rating: 4 of 5 stars


Originally posted 10/31/2013

Unsouled starts out by giving us a look at how unwinding came about. Janson and Sonia Rheinschild, are the scientists who created a way to use every bit of a donors body. Their intentions were to help those in need, but the evil corporations used their dream to build an empire. After the Heartland War, people were scared, and with the educational system being down for so long, teens were turning feral. Many people agreed to the Unwind Order out of fear. The Rheinschild's never supported the way their work was used, and so they were erased..
Large spoiler section below, because there is too much going on to remember when the next book comes out!





***Spoilers***
Janson knew that to change anything he would have to stop the need for the unwinds. Too many people were benefiting from the unwinds, to ever want to stop it. He developed a way to create organs, and tissue starting with a few small cells so that the unwinds wouldn't be needed. To his utter dismay the corporations refused his methods, because too many people were making too much money in the unwind business. The powers that be effectively erased the Rheinschild's from history, shortly before Janson gave up and had a heart attack. Sonia turned out to be the Sonia that first gave Connor and Risa shelter when they went on the run.
Connor (the Akron AWOL) and Lev (the tithe who was rescued by Connor in the beginning, eventually became a clapper who didn't clap) are on the run from the graveyard barely escaping Nelson the parts pirate, after they were attacked. A lot of kids were killed in the battle, but many escaped. While driving back to Akron where it all started, with plans to question Sonia after learning of her past, the two of them are in a wreck. Connor goes into town to steal another car, but is kidnapped by Argent Skinner. Argent is a lowlife dope head who has a hero fascination with Connor. He is convinced that the two of them will be great friends once Connor comes around. Argent's sister Grace is low corticol (slow) and he treats her badly. Connor realizes that she is much smarter than her brother gives her credit for, and treats her nice. Argent's dumb ass takes a pic with an unconscious Connor and post it to Facebook, causing the cops to storm the place. Grace hides Connor out, and helps him get away, and ends up along for the ride. They pick up Lev, but he is badly injured when they accidentally hit him. The closest place they can go for help is the Arapache Reservation where Lev knows some people.
Lev stayed with the Tashi'ne family for a while, until on a spirit quest their son Wil, was captured by parts pirates to save the rest of their group. The Arapache don't believe in unwinding, and the reservations aren't required to adhere to the laws like the outside. Elina, Wil's mother takes them in, and hides them for a while. Una, Wil's fiance is not happy at first to see Lev, and tells him he brings trouble whenever he comes. They stay a few weeks while Lev is healing, still planning to return to Akron.
Risa was blackmailed by Proactive Citizenry to endorse their campaign, or watch her friends at the graveyard be captured and unwound. Once she finds out they were attacked anyway, she reveals on national tv that she was blackmailed, and never agreed with them, right before she makes a run for it. While running she is caught in a trap left by a parts pirate. She manages to kill him, but does so before she can get free. The only person she can think to call is Cyrus Finch.
Cyrus Finch received a part of Tyler Walkers brain, and Tyler makes his presence known, or so he says. Cyrus' dads pick Risa up, and take her back to their commune. All people who have a part of Tyler Walker, that now live together, and think they have put him back together. Eventually Risa is able to leave there, and sets out to find someone left in the ADR (Anti-Divisional Resistance).
Camus Comprix is the creation of scientists using nothing but unwind parts, 99 different peoples parts made into one being. He fell in love with Risa while she was there, and wants to do anything to get her back. When he learns that the Proactive Citizenry has basically sold him to the military, like an object, and not a person he decides he won't go. He starts out with the plan to capture Connor, and turn him in, buying himself enough power to negotiate the contract. He plans on bringing PC down in order to win Risa back. Unfortunately he has Wil's hands, and some of his memories. He sees Lev at the reservation, and knows that's where they will go. Once he arrives, Una takes him hostage after finding him playing one of the guitars. She is so devastated to have Wil's hands, and music but not have him she almost kills him. Connor realizes she is hiding something and follows her to where she is keeping him. They decide to leave a few days ahead of Cam in order to throw him off of their location, until he overhears them discussing where they are headed. Then Connor is forced to bring him along. Lev decides to stay at the reservation, and Connor, Grace, and Cam leave together.
Meanwhile Nelson, the parts pirate with a vendetta against Connor has hooked up with Argent. He knows the picture wasn't a fake like they all claimed it was. Argent thinks he is smart, and leads Nelson on a wild goose chase in order to see more of the country. Once Nelson figures it out, Argent reveals his ace in the hole. Grace used to wander off a lot, and so her parents had her implanted with a tracking chip. He agrees to give the info to Nelson, if he will teach him how to be a parts pirate.
Mason Starkey was one of the guys at the graveyard when it was attacked. Before then he had been gathering all of the storks, the adopted AWOL kids. During the attack he steals the only operating plane to carry him, and his storks to safety. At first they resorted to robbing out of the way gas stations to survive. He gets smart, and one of the tech kids steals a bunch of money from the kids parents. He buys them all t-shirts so they can pass as a bunch of kids on a field trip. His plans are to free a bunch of storks, but the sadistic bastard kills plenty of people while doing it. Hayden is one of the first rescued, and refuses to help with the tech, even though he has great ideas unless they do it his way. He devises a plan to rescue all of the kids without anyone getting hurt. They do this, but Starkey wants his name to be known. He lines up five adults, tells one lady his name, and what they are doing, and kills the other four. Most of the kids don't have the stomach for what he is doing, but are too scared to say anything. His second in command, Bam is really in love with him, but they have decided it won't work. When she finds out he has impregnated three of the girls she is furious. Then a helicopter descends on their cave hideout, extracting Starkey, and a guy offers him a deal. They will fund his project, as long as he continues what he is doing. What Starkey doesn't realize, is this person probably benefits from unwinding, and these teens terrorizing the nation only reinforces the peoples fear, and acquiescence to unwinding.
Once Connor, Grace, and Cam make it to Akron, and Sonia they find that Risa is there. The guys who were sort of getting along, are now at each others throats to win back her affection. She ends up choosing Connor, right before the military, and Roberta break down the door to get to Cam. Grace has proven invaluable on many occasions, and does on this one as well. She knows they are only looking for Cam, and hides the rest of them. They do only take him, and never realize who else is in the house. Cam doesn't say, and Roberta drops a bomb on him as they leave. She tells him that he has been wrong in some of his thinking, but she has an effective way of taking what's wrong in his mind and making it right.
Sonia reveals to Connor, Risa, and Grace that though they destroyed all of her husbands work, she hung on to one of the smaller prototypes of his second invention. She still has it now, and tells them how it works to rebuild the body, effectively dismissing the need for unwinding.



View all my reviews

Saturday, December 6, 2014

Review: Slow Dance in Purgatory


Slow Dance in Purgatory
Slow Dance in Purgatory by Amy Harmon

My rating: 3 of 5 stars



Slow Dance in Purgatory was a bit strange. The plot was interesting enough that I wanted to finish it, but I can't say I loved it.
Maggie lost her parents when she was ten, and spent several years being shuffled around to different foster families. She ends up living permanently with her great aunt in Texas, finally having a home again. While working her part time job helping clean the high school she attends, she learns of a fifty year old mystery that still haunts their small town. Meeting the man, who's now a ghost that is at the center of this mystery isn't as surprising as it should be. Maggie has always been able to see ghosts, though usually she isn't able to interact with them. Seeing the ghosts of people long dead, repeating an endless loop of things they had done in life, isn't nearly as exciting as falling in love with a man only she can see.


***Spoilers***
Maggie & Johnny develop a fast friendship. He hasn't had an opportunity to speak with anyone in fifty years, and she doesn't exactly have a lot of friends. Their friendship develops into love, but it's something she must keep a secret. Johnny knows that Maggie shouldn't love him. He is bound to the school where he died, and can never leave. He tries to distance himself from her, but the two of them can't seem to stay away from each other. He does finally pull away from her for good, knowing that it's in her best interest to get over him and move on. Her friend Shad gets himself into trouble trying to impress some of the older, cool kids. He gets his grandfathers key to the school after convincing the other kids it's haunted. They make him think he is a part of their group long enough to gain access, and then stuff him in a locker. After what seems like forever he is finally able to get to his phone and dial Maggie's number. She heads up to the school immediately. While the others were messing around with a Ouija board, and drinking a few beers they unintentionally set a fire that quickly gets out of control. They all take off, forgetting the kid they left in the locker. Maggie pulls up to the school in flames, and is horrified to think that Shad is trapped inside. She goes in, knowing that if she can get to Johnny he can help her. He tells her to stay put while he gets Shad, but she is lured away by the ghost of Roger, her great grandmothers deceased husband, who was involved in Johnny's death. She sees how Johnny dies, and is almost there herself. Roger tells her to let go, that she can join Johnny and be with him forever. Johnny finds her just in time, and takes her as far out as he can. He can never go past the doors of the school, but is able to get her to safety where she is quickly found and taken away by the ambulance. While still in a coma at the hospital, Johnny's body is found among the rubble, with a gunshot wound from fifty years ago, and an unsteady pulse. He too is taken to the hospital, but only Gus, Shad's uncle, recognizes him. He tells Maggie that Johnny is alive, and that he will need her once he wakes up. Somewhere lost in her coma she hears him, and forces herself to wake up. To be continued in book two.



View all my reviews

Review: Ugly Love


Ugly Love
Ugly Love by Colleen Hoover

My rating: 5 of 5 stars



Ugly Love = Ugly Face.. You know when you're crying so hard you have to take great gulping breaths just to get enough to fill your lungs? I think the correct term is sobbing, and the dictionary describes it as convulsive gasps. Sounds like a pretty accurate description of myself while reading the last quarter of Ugly Love.
Miles only has two rules for his friends little sister. Never ask about the past, and don't expect a future. Tate agrees, thinking she can handle their sex only agreement. She is incredibly busy with her job, and school. She doesn't have time for love. She tries to keep her distance, but the more time they spend with one another, the deeper she feels for him. Every time Tate even suggests something personal, Miles slams his walls back into place. She knows she deserves better than the guy who refuses to be anything more than a few hours good time, but she can't stop seeing him. Miles knows Tate is developing feelings beyond their mutual attraction. The right thing to do would be to walk away. He knows he'll never love again, and it's safer that way. Like Tate, he understands the consequences of continuing to see each other, but he can't walk away.



View all my reviews

Tuesday, December 2, 2014

Review: The Law of Moses


The Law of Moses
The Law of Moses by Amy Harmon

My rating: 5 of 5 stars



The Law of Moses had only been out a few days, and already it was recommended to me by two people. That was enough for me to move it to the top of my list. I am so glad I did!

After finishing I was completely overwhelmed by the characters, the book, the tragedy, and the love. It was truly an amazing experience as a reader. These kind of books don't come around often, but when they do it reminds me why reading is my favorite pastime. I try to be a little stingy with my five stars, but there was no question when rating this book. Get your tissues ready, because I was a mess.. but the best kind of mess.
I loved everything about the characters, all of them. I loved that Georgia was strong, confident, sassy, and determined to do what it took to get what she wanted. She didn't seem the least bit self conscious about the fact that Moses had basically told her to hit the road. I guess she saw in him something that made her want to fight. Moses, oh he broke my heart. If he were real I would have given him a hug. He needed it, and Georgia was willing to be there for him. The Law of Moses was true to real life though, because we don't always get what we want.


***SPOILERS***
Not only did Georgia & Moses lose one another, but Moses lost his GiGi, the only stable thing in his life. He also lost out on the birth, and short life of his son Eli. Y'all I was bawling like my own kid died. It was heart wrenching what happened to Eli, that Georgia felt responsible, and that Moses missed out on the little time he had. I loved little Eli, and I couldn't help but picture my own boys when they were small. Moses' abilities were completely unexpected. I'm glad Harmon gave that to him, and let us witness the little time he had with Eli.



View all my reviews

Saturday, November 29, 2014

Review: In The Afterlight


In The Afterlight
In The Afterlight by Alexandra Bracken

My rating: 3 of 5 stars



I'm not sure if my standards in books has increased, or my preferred genre has changed, maybe it's because I am getting old, but I have just not had great luck with books lately. Even though the previous books in this series were rated higher, I just can't seem to stay focused.
I won't go into a long description of what happened in In The Afterlight, because it's the last book in the series so we won't need a refresher. Ruby, Liam, Chubs, Vida, Cole and a few more are all just trying to survive. Once they have managed to meet their basic needs, any extra energy is spent defying President Gray, looking for the cure for IAAN, and how to rescue the kids remaining in the camps. Ruby is a very strong character, as are the rest of them. Cole grew on me quite a bit throughout this last book, while Liam was a tad disappointing. Either way all's well that ends well. Though I'm not saying that it does. :)



View all my reviews

Saturday, November 15, 2014

Review: The Retribution of Mara Dyer


The Retribution of Mara Dyer
The Retribution of Mara Dyer by Michelle Hodkin

My rating: 4 of 5 stars



Fascinating trilogy, with a fabulous close. Many questions are answered after finishing The Retribution of Mara Dyer, but there is so much more than what you think. There are questions answered that you didn't even know needed to be asked.
Mara is being held at Horizons, the treatment center. She has no idea how long she's been there, or what they're doing to her. The amount of drugs they are giving her should be lethal. There are drugs that force her to forget about the experiments they perform, others that make it impossible to move her body or react in anyway. The days and the details are fuzzy, but that doesn't stop her from wanting to escape. Help comes in the least likely of people, and Mara is unsure if it's a smart decision to accept. She knows that Noah is still alive, despite what she has been told. Getting out, by whatever means necessary is the only way to find him.



View all my reviews

Review: Blue Lily, Lily Blue


Blue Lily, Lily Blue
Blue Lily, Lily Blue by Maggie Stiefvater

My rating: 2 of 5 stars



I have been trying to finish this book for two weeks.. I don't know what it is that makes me want to put it down, and do anything else. I loved the first two books in this series, so I'm somewhat surprised that Blue Lily, Lily Blue is so dull. I really can't explain what it is, other than I'm just not interested in wasting any more time trying to finish this book.



View all my reviews

Sunday, November 2, 2014

Review: Out of the Devil's Cauldron


Out of the Devil's Cauldron
Out of the Devil's Cauldron by John Ramirez

My rating: 4 of 5 stars



I saw John Ramirez's testimony on Youtube a few times before I picked up his book. As someone who was raised in a Christian home, and had always known the love of Jesus Christ, I haven't seen or even heard of many of the things talked about in Out of the Devil's Cauldron. I was shocked by some of the things that were discussed, because I had no idea that kind of thing actually takes place. I have always grouped witches in with things like vampires, and werewolves, as a fantasy not reality. John Ramirez has an amazing testimony about his life as a servant of the Devil for 25 years, and how he eventually turned his life over to Christ. There was one contradicting fact in the book that made me question the truthfulness of the book, but not enough to stop reading.



View all my reviews

Monday, October 20, 2014

Review: One More Chance


One More Chance
One More Chance by Abbi Glines

My rating: 3 of 5 stars



Not bad, just not great.. I'm not a huge fan of weak women, and Harlow is just that. Grant is ok, but his on/off relationship with Nan would be a deal breaker. Especially when his last on was after hooking up with Harlow. Mace is probably the most likable character in the book, and hopefully he'll get his own story soon.
At the end of book one, Grant and Harlow are really liking each other, right up until Grant learns Harlow's secret. The fact that she has a heart problem that could be fatal is more than he can handle right then, and he says some nasty things. Harlow leaves, and refuses to speak with him for two months. Throughout that time, he's basically a basket case, and she isn't much better. Both of them must decide if they are willing to work through the tough times that are certainly ahead, and if the other person is worth the fight.


***Spoilers***
Mace finally gets in touch with Grant when Harlow finds out she's pregnant but refuses to get an abortion. The doctors are not very optimistic at her survival rate with her heart in it's current condition. Harlow is not giving up her baby, and is willing to die to have her. Grant doesn't want her to take that chance, but he also won't make her do something she doesn't want to. They get back together and start preparing for their baby. Grant finally proposes, but Harlow goes into labor that night. She stays unconscious for several days, and Grant spends that time with their daughter Lila Kate. Harlow was thoughtful enough to write letters to her daughter, and Grant in case she didn't make it. Letters they would need as time went on. Grant received the first letter while she was still in the hospital, and told her flat out that he didn't accept it, and that he and Lila Kate needed her to wake up. She does come around, and Grant is able to take both of his girls home.



View all my reviews

Friday, October 17, 2014

Review: Never Look Back


Never Look Back
Never Look Back by Amy Stephens

My rating: 1 of 5 stars



I was given a copy of Never Look Back in exchange for an honest review.

I was told that this book could be read as a stand alone, so I didn't read the first book in the series. I wanted to like this book. I always feel for new authors because I can't imagine how it must feel to be in their shoes. This book is not ready for readers yet. The writing is stilted, and doesn't flow right. There are so many mistakes that is distracting. Not just grammar or spelling mistakes (but there are a LOT), but contradictory plot holes. For instance in one portion of the book Jennifer is extremely upset (she is upset about everything), and Todd walks in at that time. At the top of the page it says "For the next half hour I listen to her retell everything her father shared with her", then just a few paragraphs down on the same page it says "I don't want to pry and ask questions, but I'm curious to know what upset her." This kind of thing happens many times, throughout the book. It's not really that big of a deal other than it distracts you from ever being engrossed in the book. The second thing that annoyed me were the characters. None of them are endearing, especially the protagonist. She was one of those people who says "Why me, what did I do to deserve this?" she literally says this. I wanted to scream you married a guy after knowing him only a few short months, and got pregnant. I mean really, you don't get to cry why me when you put yourself in that situation.. There is just too much that I couldn't get past to enjoy reading this book.



View all my reviews

Monday, October 13, 2014

Review: In Her Wake


In Her Wake
In Her Wake by K.A. Tucker

My rating: 4 of 5 stars



I hate when authors write the same book from a different point of view. In Her Wake is not the same story as Ten Tiny Breaths. In this prequel we are given a glimpse of Cole/Trent's life from before the accident, until he meets Kacey. Somehow I felt sympathetic for him, and his situation, even though it was clearly their fault. His need to protect Kacey, and to help her find her way back was more than just making amends. Even stalking her and her family didn't register as creepy, although it should have. In Her Wake isn't required to read the other books in the series, but it is helpful to have a little more perspective.



View all my reviews

Sunday, October 12, 2014

Review: Sparks Rise


Sparks Rise
Sparks Rise by Alexandra Bracken

My rating: 4 of 5 stars



Novellas serve as a small reminder, or a brief look into the world we are waiting to reappear. Sparks Rise was just that. A quick recap of the brutal treatment that the Psi kids receive at the hands of the PSFs. Samantha "Sam/Sammy" is a blue, living in one of the worst rehabilitation centers for the last seven years. Her routine is the same day in and day out, until a group of Reds are brought in to assist the PSFs. They have been completely stripped of anything that makes them themselves, and replaced with a shell of a person who is easily controlled. They are no more than the deadliest of weapons. Sam recognizes one of them, Lucas her best friend from childhood. When Sam is attacked by a nasty PSF, she fights back, willing to die before allowing him to touch her. Lucas wants to help her, but he's worked so hard at keeping his cover to risk it. It takes everything he has to pretend to be one of the mindless Reds that help with security. He knows that helping Sam will blow his cover, but he's also not sure if he can just leave her to their mercy.


***Spoilers***
He is able to stand back, even though it kills him to watch them beat her and lock her in a cage. He is able to talk to her for a moment, and she agrees that he made the right decision. Even if he'd tried to help, neither of them would have made it out alive. Overnight in the cages, Sam is bitten by a snake. While assisting in the medical ward, Lucas finds out the camp that his sister is located in. Shortly after that he sees that Sam is in the infirmary, not in the cages, and without the antivenom she may not make it. One of the nurses is able to help them escape, but they barely make it out of the gates before getting caught. Several weeks later Sam is still suffering the effects of the bite, and her leg will never be completely healed. She finally sees Lucas after all that time, but this time she realizes, that they have finally broken him. The boy she knew is no longer there.



View all my reviews

Wednesday, October 8, 2014

Review: Deacon


Deacon
Deacon by Kristen Ashley

My rating: 3 of 5 stars



It's not a secret that I'm a huge Kristen Ashley fan. I'm pretty sure I have read everything she has ever written. With that said, Deacon just didn't do it for me in the end. I know exactly why, but that part will have to be in the spoilers section. This fourth installment of Unfinished Hero also seemed a bit generic. Almost like there was a deadline looming, and the words had to be put on paper. I can't even begin to understand how difficult it must be to write a book, much less writing several different series at one time, but I would be happy to wait a little longer if needed. Other than a few details about the main characters history, either one of them could have been replaced with another KA character without a problem. Even with all of that, Deacon was a solid four star book until the last 30-40 pages. Unfortunately that small portion of the book was enough to bring it down to three stars. This may be totally my issue, so read it for yourself before deciding.

Cassidy "Cassie" was fine as far as characters goes. A bit naive, and again a little generic, but ok. Deacon is the standard KA alpha male, with a slightly shady history. She is living her dream in the Colorado mountains, a bit differently than planned, but she's doing it. He shows up randomly over the years renting cabin number 11, and disappearing within a few days. Cassie knows that feeling anything for Deacon, who is almost certainly some kind of criminal is not smart. That doesn't stop her from renting cabins 1-10 first on the off chance he'll show up.



***Spoilers*** ***For mature readers only***
Deacon was a normal guy, in love and planning a life with his wife. None of her family, or friends bothered to tell him that she'd been in and out of rehab as a teenager, even when she disappeared. He knew that he loved her, and wanted her back, and despite protests from his family, he left everything behind to find her. After years of searching the dregs of society, he found his wife, and what he found was not pretty. She let the drugs take over, selling her body to pay for her addiction, and let her addiction take her life. For years Deacon lived in that world, making a name for himself as the bad guy bounty hunter who could find anyone. He knew he wasn't right after what happened, and knew he wasn't the man Cassie deserved, even though he couldn't stay away. After six years of renting cabin eleven, he stopped resisting her pull. They both fell for one another quickly, and they fell hard. Still Deacon held a part of himself back, some of it to protect Cassie, but another part because he wasn't ready to share. When Cassie found a picture of his wife, and thought he was still married, she demanded answers. She wanted to know everything, and he refused to give it to her. He walked away and broke her heart in the process. For six months she struggled to put herself and her life back together, and then he came back. Sure I know his side, and that he was finally ready. I just don't care. He strips naked, throws out a few lines, while heartfelt, still not enough to make up for what he did. She jumped right back in, which is the first issue I had. Secondly, their love life was a bit kinky before he left, but when he got back it was different. There is just something not right about a man like Deacon, as macho as they come, submitting to a woman. Not only that but he lets her put a plug in his ass??? No. I just can't. That just ruined it for me. Of course I'll still read the next book, but if by some crazy luck KA reads this review.. PLEASE don't do that again!



View all my reviews

Monday, October 6, 2014

Review: The Sinner's Bargain


The Sinner's Bargain
The Sinner's Bargain by Claire Contreras

My rating: 1 of 5 stars



Meh... I just didn't like it. The Sinner's Bargain was illogical, and a jumbled mess of ideas, none of which made much sense. I have read almost all of Contreras' books, and have given them all 4 or 5 stars, except this one. Books in the general sense do not have to be possible to be good. I read books about vampires, and werewolves, that somehow work. They do have to be logical though. For instance, if I am a criminal mastermind, making the daughter of a debtor work for my brothel to repay a debt, I'm pretty sure I wouldn't just let her walk away with my enemy. (Sometimes enemy?) That's another issue, do Sam & Philip work together, or are they competitors. Do they even like each other? I got the feeling the author wanted to keep the reader guessing about who could be trusted. She did a fantastic job there, because even after finishing the book I still have no idea.



View all my reviews

Monday, September 29, 2014

Review: The Cellar


The Cellar
The Cellar by Natasha Preston

My rating: 3 of 5 stars



I picked up The Cellar because I needed an actual book to take with me on a trip. It does start a little slow, but once I got into The Cellar, I couldn't put it down until I finished it. The reason I didn't rate it four stars is because I have no desire to continue the series.

At sixteen years old, Summer goes missing. No one in her small town knows what to think, as things like that just don't happen there. They immediately start searching, but when they don't find her, or even a clue, they begin to lose hope. The Cellar is all kinds of twisted, both physically and mentally. At the end of the book I felt extremely anxious, almost as if I was personally witnessing this psycho and his house of horror. As someone who has never experienced such a terrifying situation, I can speculate as to what I think I might do. Being in the situation, as Summer quickly learned, tends to change things. When each decision could possibly have a life or death consequence, the lines are blurred. I can't imagine living through such a terrifying experience. The fact that this happens in real life is unimaginable. There is a reason we have gut feelings, or intuition. It is usually pretty spot on, and it might do us all well to remember that, or at least buy a gun!



View all my reviews

Sunday, September 21, 2014

Review: Opposition


Opposition
Opposition by Jennifer L. Armentrout

My rating: 2 of 5 stars



I stuck with the Lux series until the end, but I'm glad that it's over. I hate when I mentally move on from a series before it's completed, but it happens, and there really isn't much to do about it. Opposition was a struggle for me, not because it was a bad book, well a little bad, but I just didn't have the interest in the subject anymore. I go through phases, and apparently I am out of the hot alien phase. The fact that it took me nearly a week to finish it should have been a red flag, but I have this weird sense of loyalty to some authors. Armentrout finished up the Lux series nice and neat, no loose ends to keep you wandering. You have permission to move on.



View all my reviews

Sunday, September 14, 2014

Review: Black Lies


Black Lies
Black Lies by Alessandra Torre

My rating: 5 of 5 stars



This is why I love Goodreads! After reading the description, I wasn't sold. Black Lies didn't sound like the type of book I would enjoy reading, but the fact that most of my GR friends rated it highly, and the average rating was 4.53 convinced me to give it a try. I absolutely loved it! This is not your every day love triangle romance. It is so much more than that. Torre did an amazing job with keeping me in suspense, and guessing right up until the very end. I cannot get over the mind that could come up with this book. Authors never cease to amaze me with their brilliance, but some authors have additional parts in their brains that allow them to think things that the average human can't. Either that, or I am extremely low on the creativity scale..
If you're unsure about reading this book based solely on the description, read it anyway. If you detest cheating, and cheaters, read it anyway. If you decide to read it, and love it, like this review! :)



View all my reviews

Review: I Want It That Way


I Want It That Way
I Want It That Way by Ann Aguirre

My rating: 4 of 5 stars



I Want It That Way was a little slow to start, but once it took off it was full speed until the last page.
Nadia is dedicated to finishing school, doing what no one in her family has done before. Her parents have sacrificed everything for her to be where she is, and she doesn't take that lightly. Maintaining her courses, her job, and student teaching is wearing on her, but knowing her family is proud of her is what keeps her moving when she'd rather not.
Ty, hot ginger, new downstairs neighbor, and young single dad has a full time job, night classes, and a rambunctious four year old. Sam is freaking adorable, and quickly wraps Nadia around his finger. Though Ty is attracted to Nadia, he knows at her age he can never be it for her. He has too many responsibilities to casually date, and could never give her the time she deserves. He's also very guarded after a bad awful experience, and may never be ready to open up to anyone.

Favorite line: "Life is real, and it's right now."

***Spoilers***
Though they try their hardest to remain just friends, they're fighting a losing battle. When the attraction is too much, and they finally give in, Ty is is insistent that Nadia knows he can only give her a fwb type relationship. Sam is his primary focus, and he doesn't want Sam to know anything about their relationship. He's afraid to allow him to get attached to Nadia, so that when they're done Sam is left hurting. They keep things a secret for a few months, spending Ty's one free weekend a month with each other, and sneaking stolen moments. Sam doesn't know about his fathers relationship with Nadia, but he's become just as attached to her since she is a teacher at his daycare. When the two of them get sick, and Sam ventures upstairs to get Nadia, she rushes into action. She calls in to work, and school for herself, and Ty, as well as passing out meds, and soup to her boys. Everything is great until Ty realizes that Sam went to get Nadia. He explains that he knew Nadia would take care of them, because she loves them. This is enough to spook Ty into pushing her away. She doesn't fight much, because she knows she isn't ready to move in and be a step mom at age 21. That doesn't make the heartbreak any easier for either of them. A few months go by before Nadia finally realizes that there is no time table. Societies idea of college, marriage, 2.5 kids, and retirement isn't for everyone. She knows that she loves both Ty, and Sam and can't possibly live without either of them. Convincing Ty is a little more difficult, but he finally comes around.



View all my reviews

Monday, September 8, 2014

Review: The Beautiful Ashes


The Beautiful Ashes
The Beautiful Ashes by Jeaniene Frost

My rating: 5 of 5 stars


I swear Jeaniene Frost can absolutely do no wrong when she writes. I don't know where she got her skills, but I don't think I have ever read one of her books that I didn't enjoy immensely. Don't believe me? Check out my shelf on GoodReads titled JF 5 star. Those are the books she rates as five stars so I know they are good.
The Broken Destiny series is brand new, and has nothing to do with vampires. Ahh I know, I was a little worried too, but not sure why. Frost handles this new genre with ease, and starts what I'm sure will be another favorite series.
All of her life Ivy has been the unfortunate recipient of weird visions. She may see an outdated version of an area on top of the current place, and only knows they are different by the outdated clothing, or decor. Her adopted parents have taken her to many doctors, but nothing has ever cured her. When her sister goes missing, she follows her trail looking for any clues the police might have missed. While searching for answers to her sisters disappearance, she finds more than she bargained for. Not only does she find out where her sister might be, but also that the strange things she sees are actually real, and the alternate vision is not an outdated memory, but another overlapping realm. Her sister is being held in one of the demon realms, and the only person that can help Ivy get her out is Adrian. He may be incredibly strong, and easy on the eyes, but he is fated to betray Ivy, and neither of them want that to happen. Adrian doesn't trust himself to be able to overcome his destiny, and Ivy knows her misplaced trust will probably end up causing her to get hurt. Avoidance may seem like the best solution, but the only way to defeat the demons, and free her sister is by locating a lost relic, and neither of them can find it without the others help.



View all my reviews

Review: Dirty Angels


Dirty Angels
Dirty Angels by Karina Halle

My rating: 4 of 5 stars



The Dirty Angels series is a spinoff of Halle's Artist Trilogy (which I loved btw). It can be read as a stand alone, but the other books give a little bit more background to just who Javier Bernal is. It's every bit as gritty as the author promised, and may not sit well with some readers. Unfortunately life is not always sunshine & rainbows, but if that's what you like reading, this isn't the book for you.

Luisa Chavez was an only child of her devoted parents. Her mother is blind, but not limited in the things she could do for her family because of it. Her fathers sudden onset of Alzheimer's prevented him from supporting his family, and all of Luisa's dreams must be put on hold in order to do just that. As a former beauty queen her looks may have helped her get a job at one of the bars that tourists frequent, but that isn't enough to prevent her sleazy boss from taking advantage of her situation. Salvador Reyes is the leader of the largest cartel in Mexico, and when he decides that he wants Luisa to be his wife, she doesn't really get the option of saying no. The plus side to their relationship is that she won't have to worry about caring for her parents because Salvador has promised to take care of everything. Immediately after they exchange their vows, Salvador makes her duties very clear. As his wife she is to be available for anything he wants, no questions asked. He sees her as his property, and treats her as such.
Javier Bernal is the leader of a rival cartel, and he is looking to expand. He believes Luisa is his ticket to taking part of Salvador's territory, and he intends to break her in the process. What he doesn't realize is that Salvador has almost accomplished that, and it may take more than he is willing to give to finally break her spirit.



View all my reviews

Monday, September 1, 2014

Review: Happenstance


Happenstance
Happenstance by Jamie McGuire

My rating: 3 of 5 stars



That was... weird. The first 80% read like any other really good book. Then it was like McGuire realized she only had twenty pages left to fit in the rest of the book. Not only was it really fast, it was also unrealistic, and a little too perfect. HM Ward has done well with her short stories, each of them about 100 pages, and all released quickly. Not sure if that's what McGuire was going for, but it didn't feel right. I still liked it, and I'll read the next book in the series, but it would have been better spread out over 200-250 pages.

Three girls with the name Erin were born on the same day in a small rural town. Two of them were born into wealthy families, and took great pleasure in tormenting the third. They are the typical snobby, mean girls that exist in every high school in America. Erin Easter was born to a poor, single mother which isn't necessarily bad, but her mother is. With only a few months left of her senior year, she just has to get through it, and then she'll be free of the whole town, and the people in it. Of course life is never that black, and white. Weston, one of the mean Erin's boyfriend starts paying too much attention to Erin Easter. She has always liked him, but she also knows that if anyone else knew, her living hell would be ten times worse.



View all my reviews

Review: Ruin and Rising


Ruin and Rising
Ruin and Rising by Leigh Bardugo

My rating: 3 of 5 stars



I'm not sure if my taste in books is changing, or if I am just too consumed with other things, but Ruin & Rising didn't do it for me. I enjoyed reading the first two books, and was looking forward to the final book in the series. After almost two weeks, which is practically unheard of, I am finally done. I probably should have just stopped sooner, but it ended well.

After their last run in with the Darkling, Alina and Mal are staying underground with the Apparat. She knows she must recover before the two of them can continue their search for the third, and final amplifier. Living underground with no access to her power is not helping improve her condition at all. Throughout their journey to find the firebird, Alina is hoping that she will also find Nickolai alive. As the only heir to Ravka, he is the key to putting their country back together, if/when they are able to defeat the Darkling. Her duty to her country, and those who consider her a saint, are also the very reason she can never be with the boy she has always loved. Mal is the one constant in Alina's life, but they both know that in order to defeat the Darkling, and revive Ravka, Alina needs an army, and allies.



View all my reviews

Monday, August 18, 2014

Review: The Promise


The Promise
The Promise by Kristen Ashley

My rating: 4 of 5 stars



There are no words for me to explain the awesomeness that is Kristen Ashley! Anytime I pick up a book of hers, I know that I am going to love it.
Benny and Frankie appeared briefly in Cal & Violet's story, but there was a lot left out. Francesca (Frankie) dated Vinnie Bianchi for years. She stuck by him when he was failing at several get rich quick schemes, and when that fell through he joined his Uncle Sal in the Chicago mob. After his death, the Bianchi family blamed Frankie for his downfall. Losing her boyfriend was devastating, but losing his family at the same time made it worse. When Frankie gets shot helping Violet, Benny decides he's done placing the blame where it doesn't belong. Unfortunately Frankie has decided she is done paying for another persons sins. She has already made plans to leave Chicago, and as soon as she recuperates she's gone. Benny has other plans for Frankie, now and in the future.



***Spoilers***
The Bianchi's are at the hospital daily trying to mend the fence with Frankie. She pretends to be asleep every time they come in, and that goes over with everyone, except Benny. On the day she's released, he picks her up without her permission, but recovering from a gunshot wound takes the fight out of anyone. He takes care of her, and is really sweet about it. Frankie eventually comes around, and enjoys spending time with Benny, but is still planning to leave. She says she doesn't want anything more than friendship, but they both know that's not true. It really comes down to the fact that she doesn't want to risk losing him, or his family again if things go wrong. She ends up freaking out, and leaving to Indianapolis to start her new job. Benny told her she could come back to him when she changes her mind. While down there she ends up involved in an office scandal. The pharmaceutical company she works for is getting ready to release a new drug that they have a lot of money invested in. When she and a few co-workers find out that there are some problems with the medicine in a small percentage of people, and that the main boss, and another boss are planning on releasing it anyway she has to stop it. Somehow Sal and his goons, and the Nightengale team all get involved. They do end up getting the information and turning it over, but not before a small scare. Frankie moves back to Chicago with Benny, and is even able to get her receptionist Tandy on the job with her. She and Benny get married, and end up having three kids, Alessandra, Donovan, and Joseph. Cal & Violet also have their daughter Angie, and two more boys Ben & Sam. Right before coming back to Chicago, Frankie was hanging out with Cheryl & Feb at Feb's bar. Cheryl is looking for a man, and Benny is really sweet to tell her to smile more, because if she shows the person she is to her girls to a man, she will find a good one. She's in love with Detective Garrett Merrick, but he doesn't see her like she wants him to. Their book is next, so apparently he does end up seeing Cheryl.



View all my reviews

Thursday, August 14, 2014

Review: Breathe


Breathe
Breathe by Kristen Ashley

My rating: 5 of 5 stars



I was given a free copy of Breathe in exchange for an honest review.


Kristen Ashley is my favorite author by far, and that is because everything she writes is pure fraking gold! My boys went to a friends last night, and what did I do?? I stayed up until 4am bawling my eyes out like a big dork so I could finish Breathe!
We have heard a little bit about Chase and Faye in the previous Colorado Mountain books. Faye is the sweet, shy, pretty town librarian. Chase is the son of a corrupt business man, local town hero, and one smoking hot cop. The town of Carnal is in the process of cleaning things up, after the the corruption that was the police department is no more. I did get a little annoyed with Faye's geek speak, but I'm sure I was feeling the same exasperation as Chase. =)



***Spoilers***
Chase was blackmailed into marrying the town whore, Misty when he had the choice of marrying her, or have his mother (who is not mentally stable) be told of his fathers sick side kink. Misty was killed when she bought off more than she could chew with the local bad guys. Faye has been in love with Chase since she was 16, and would give anything for him to notice her. When he finds her at the sight of the murder, he questions why she was there and then is pretty much an asshole, in the classic good guy, "let's scare her off to keep her safe" way. She persists, though she doesn't reveal her reason for being there in the middle of the night. Faye is not only quiet, but a major geek. She and her two online friends are convinced they can solve the murder, and make Chase notice her once and for all. When Faye notices that a very young, obviously mistreated/ abused child comes in the library, even more abused than normal, she makes it her mission to find out what's going on with him. He is scared to death, and runs away, but she and Chase decide to leave him a few essentials by the library return bin. As time progresses Malachi eventually starts returning their notes, and asking for things he needs, such as a sleeping bag. When a week goes by, and Malachi hasn't shown to collect his new things, they both begin to worry. Chase sets his childhood friend Deck on him, and eventually they find him. (Let it be known, I think it's Decks turn to find him a woman.) When they find him it's worse than they dreamed, he is living in a barely standing shack, with only the sleeping bag, a few rags, and some books. His arm is broken, his leg is mangled from being caught in a trap, hands bloody from freeing himself and barely alive after being in that predicament a week. They get him to the hospital, but are worried that for some reason after three weeks he has yet to speak. He knows how, is very intelligent, but for some reason won't communicate beyond paper, pen, and nods. Malachi is finally able to rescue his little sister Rebecca from the crazy lady that has held them hostage for three years. She saw their mother, a recent widow, assumed she was an unmarried sinner, and after killing her she kidnapped the kids. Eventually the kids were returned to their grandparents, but not before forming an unbreakable bond with both Chase and Faye.



View all my reviews

Thursday, August 7, 2014

Review: A Silent Prayer: A Prayer Series I


A Silent Prayer: A Prayer Series I
A Silent Prayer: A Prayer Series I by Sam A.

My rating: 3 of 5 stars



I was given a free copy of A Silent Prayer in exchange for an honest review.

I was a little apprehensive when I started this book, as it isn't the type of book I normally read. It took me a while longer to get through it than normal, but there were parts of it that sucked me in. There are several reasons I didn't rate this book higher than three stars. First, the language is stilted, as if the author is fluent in English but maybe not her first language. It's more formal, and doesn't flow naturally. Second, I just didn't love the characters. Raina is very religious, and takes her Muslim faith seriously. Her moods are so unpredictable, that some of the time I felt lost. While Adam is a G rated Christian Grey. They should probably both see a psychiatrist, because neither of them are stable. There are several points in the book, that I thought might be somewhat super-natural, but it was never confirmed, denied, or even explained. The entire book is one big build up, to an ending that doesn't happen, at least in this book.



View all my reviews

Friday, August 1, 2014

Review: Silver Shadows


Silver Shadows
Silver Shadows by Richelle Mead

My rating: 4 of 5 stars



Richelle Mead sucked me in with her VA series years ago, and I've read everything she has written. Bloodlines is a spin-off of the Vampire Academy series, featuring Sydney Sage, the Alchemist responsible for covering up the existence of Vampires, Rose & Lissa in particular.
Silver Shadows starts out with Sydney still stuck in an isolation cell, and held captive by the Alchemist. Adrian is going out of his mind trying to find her, but he can't even reach her in a dream. Using so much spirit is weighing heavily, and Adrian's number one vice is too tempting. Sydney just hopes she can survive until Adrian finds her. After being betrayed by her family, the Alchemist will stop at nothing to break her will, even if that takes breaking her body and mind.


****Spoilers****
Sydney goes through unimaginable abuse at the hands of her Alchemist leaders. In their minds she is tainted for allowing one of those filthy creatures to touch her. She spends two months in solitary confinement with no clothes, shower, or even light. She finally decides that she is going to have to play along if she ever hopes to escape. When they bring her into the general population with other rogue alchemist she learns her transgressions are even too much for her fellow captives. Luckily Duncan befriends her in art class, but he warns her he won't be able to get too friendly outside of their class. She eventually learns that the sleeping gas they were pumping into the solitary cells, is still present in her new room. Her roommate Emma is straight as an arrow, or so she thinks at first. Emma's sister was releases from re-education, and messed up again. They are taking their time to make sure that when Emma leaves she won't mess up again. Adrian is sinking into spirit induced depression without his meds, but he can't take them and still be able to search for Sydney in her dreams. He turns to drinking to help dull the effects, but it's eventually too much for him. Jill calls his mother, and asks her to bring him back to court. While at court Adrian hangs out with Nina, another spirit user he knows. He is trying to drink his pain away, and she eventually confuses his friendship for something more. Emma reveals to Sydney she can help her, and tells her how it is they pump gas into the room. One of the other girls causes a distraction, while she takes off the ceiling tile, and stops the pipes up with a sock. The first night she is able to dream, she is disappointed that Adrian doesn't come to her. The girls that helped her are more than disappointed when they find out it was for nothing. Once Nina comes onto Adrian, he realizes that he has been wallowing in his misery, and decides to head back. When searching the next time he finds her, and they're able to discuss the things they need to. Marcus the number one most wanted Alchemist, Adrian, and a few others all find out where the re-education center is, and break Sydney and the other prisoners out. Sydney and Adrian decide to leave them since she knows it's her they will be coming after. They don't get far before the Alchemist are on their tail, and they come really close to being recaptured. Adrian comes up with the bright idea that they should get married, because as his wife the Moroi community would be forced to protect her. Once they make it to the court, the Moroi, the Alchemist, and Adrian's family are all waiting. The Alchemist are furious when Lissa refuses to hand over Sydney, and are eventually escorted out. Adrian's father is pissed that Adrian is serious about the marriage, and not just using it to keep Sydney safe. They finally get to bed that night, only to be woken a short time later, and told that Jill is missing. As the Queen's only living relative, without knowing her whereabouts, the Moroi can move to dethrone Lissa. They are only one month shy of changing the law that requires the Queen to have at least one relative, but they may be too late.



View all my reviews

Wednesday, July 30, 2014

Review: The Fiery Heart


The Fiery Heart
The Fiery Heart by Richelle Mead

My rating: 3 of 5 stars



The Fiery Heart was lacking a little of Mead's regular awesomeness. I would consider this more of a bridge between the previous book, and the next. Other than the ending, not much happened. Sydney Sage, Alchemist, is still working with the Moroi, and Dhampirs to keep Jill safe from Lissa's enemies. With the rule in Moroi court that there must be two living members in each family line to rule, Jill is in a lot of danger, because her death would unseat Lissa from the throne.
Sydney and Adrian took the leap in the last book, both overcoming their own obstacles, and stereotypes to begin their secret relationship. Sydney is still working with Mrs. Terwilliger learning all she can about human magic. Sydney's sister Zoe being there to learn from Sydney isn't helping matters much with all of the things she isn't supposed to be doing. Zoe is a spoiled brat that demands too much from Sydney, but is a constant threat to her new life. Zoe holds the power to turn her over for anything she perceives as against the Alchemist ways.



***Spoilers***
When Sydney learns of Keiths fate, the alchemist who turned rogue, that he has been reprogrammed, and basically is nothing more than a robot, she knows she must step up her game to help Marcus. Marcus is another rogue Alchemist who assists others in escaping, and deactivating their tattoos. Sydney is able to use the new magic she has learned to recreate the ink that Marcus has previously had to travel to Mexico for. Adrian, Sydney, and Sonya are all able to create another kind of ink that uses the restored Strigoi blood to prevent the people who are tattooed with it from being turned. On the day Sydney is supposed to meet with Marcus to deliver the ink, she is tricked and ambushed by the Alchemist. Her sister found out about her relationship with Adrian and turned her in. Zoe is mad at Sydney because she wouldn't testify against her mom in court, so that their dad can have custody of Zoe after the divorce. When Sydney wakes up she is naked in a cold cell. A voice over the speakers tells her that they are going to help her pull away from the darkness that has corrupted her soul. She refuses to tell them she was mistaken, that she was wrong. They then refuse her food, or even a blanket. Adrian and Mrs. Terwilliger are unable to use either of their magic to locate her, and both are distraught over her disappearance. At the end the voice in her cell tells Sydney "One way or another we will purge that darkness, but if you're uncooperative, you will find the methods we sadly must resort to are.. unpleasant."



View all my reviews

Review: Out of Control


Out of Control
Out of Control by Sarah Alderson

My rating: 4 of 5 stars



The description of Out of Control doesn't do a great job of portraying what a good book this is. When I first read it, I thought it sounded a little ridiculous. I mean she witnesses a murder, gets taken into protective custody, and the police station is shot up, and she's on the run with a car thief she met at the police station. It's plot is improbable, but Alderson does a pretty good job of making you forget that part.
Olivia "Liva" is at the police station giving her version of events about the murder she witnessed. Jay is brought in around the same time for stealing a car, and asks her to make a phone call on his behalf when she leaves. Liva can't explain why she agrees, but the instant connection between the two is undeniable. When bullets start flying, the two of them escape together, and do their best to stay ahead of the psycho cop killer. Most of the book is happening within a few days span, and it's a pretty thrilling ride. I do wish the book would have gone on a little while longer, but it was a good read all the same.



View all my reviews

Sunday, July 27, 2014

Review: Second Chances


Second Chances
Second Chances by H.M. Ward

My rating: 2 of 5 stars



Second Chances was not one of my favorites, and it definitely doesn't compare to the other books I've read by Ward. Most of the book revolves around this forbidden attraction between a 33 year old widow, and her 22 year old lawn boy. There were a few things that were sad, that could possibly elicit an emotional response from the reader, but not enough going on in my opinion, to make the reader invest in the story. Genevieve "Genny" is still grief ridden by the loss of her husband while he was deployed. Her friends, and family want to see her move on, but she has no interest in that at all. Dan was hired by Genevieve's late husband Cade when he was just a teenager. As time went on, and especially after Cade died, he's taken on more to keep Genevieve's house maintained. Genevieve is extremely insecure, and many women are, but I think she is a little excessive with it. It's obvious they are both attracted to one another, but Genevieve is more concerned with what others think, and feelings of betrayal to her husband, than what's right in front of her. Dan is extremely young, but also very mature for his age. Unlike most guys at his age, he has already started his own business, and is almost done with college. Other than a few small events, Second Chances has not plot other than the attraction, and what comes of it.



View all my reviews

Sunday, July 20, 2014

On the Fence - Kasie West


On the Fence
On the Fence by Kasie West

My rating: 4 of 5 stars



As the youngest sister of three boys, Charlie is well versed in all things boy. Which explains her absolute lack of knowledge on anything girly. If it's soccer, basketball, or pick-up game of football, she's all in. Make-up and fashion? Not so much. Unfortunately her third speeding ticket does not go over well with her dad, and he tells her she has to get a job and pay it herself. Somehow, without even trying she ends up working in a small boutique, which is totally out of her element. While stepping outside of the box is stressful, it also allows her to learn more about herself. Braden the actual boy next door, and best friend of her closest brother Gage, has always been an honorary brother as well. While dealing with what seems as her new double life, she ends up meeting Braden in the back yard to talk. Their conversation is innocent to start with, but she quickly understands that maybe she hasn't been so honest with herself about her feelings for him. Braden isn't just some guy though, he's like her best friend, and acting on those feelings could cost her an invaluable friendship. Charlie also suffers from a thing pretty common in women, in that her perception of herself is somewhat skewed. She sees herself as one of the boys, not feminine enough to attract the attention of most guys. Luckily she has plenty of people around her to point out her misconception.



View all my reviews

Thursday, July 17, 2014

Sharing You - Molly McAdams


Sharing You
Sharing You by Molly McAdams

My rating: 3 of 5 stars



I'm not a fan of cheaters, or being cheated on, but Sharing You was more than the husband with the wandering eye, or the home-wrecking whore. Both Brody & Kamryn felt that instant connection, some would call it lust. Kamryn was finally happy, living her own life, on her own terms, and doing what she loved. Brody was miserable with his life, and especially his wife. There is no poor pitiful wife sitting at home, dying on the inside because her husband is out cheating his way through town. Oh no, Olivia is the devil incarnate. Then again, she'd have to be for anyone to feel like any of this is remotely ok. I wish Brody & Kamryn could have waited until after he was divorced, but if that were the case the book would have been irrelevant. Either way it's an interesting read, with a lot of secrets to untangle, and a lot of hope in the happily ever after.



View all my reviews

Tuesday, July 15, 2014

Maybe Maby - Willow Aster


Maybe Maby
Maybe Maby by Willow Aster

My rating: 5 of 5 stars



THIS.. this book, this author, this is why I'm a reader.. I can never understand those people who say, "I don't read". I think it's only because they've never read a book that made them feel like this. Willow Aster has three books out, and every single one of them is a fan*f'n*tastic, five star book. I seriously cannot get over this author, and I was hoping before starting this that she would live up to the last two. I know you can't always be perfect, but she is pretty damn close. One of my requirements for five star ratings is that I need to feel what the characters are feeling. Oh did I ever feel Maby. I cried so much, only to turn the page and bust out laughing. I started Maybe Maby around 7ish this evening, and could absolutely not put it down until I was done. Maby is so real in her imperfections, and insecurities.. She is extremely relatable, even if I don't have the same issues she does. Coen, Coen, Coen, if only there were Coen's in the real world. He is pretty much perfect, and I loved the way he made her feel, and hurt for them both when she pushes him away.



View all my reviews

Monday, July 14, 2014

Flat-Out Celeste - Jessica Park


Flat-Out Celeste
Flat-Out Celeste by Jessica Park

My rating: 3 of 5 stars



Unfortunately Flat-Out Celeste is the first casualty of my new policy to quit books that I am not enjoying, instead of wasting time trying to suffer through them. I enjoyed the first book, as well as the novella between the two, but Celeste is extremely annoying. I'm not sure if she has always been like that, or if it had something to do with Finn's death, either way I can't take any more of it. First she is an American that speaks like she's a 70 year old British scholar, who has never heard of a contraction. Second, she has the social skills of a 7 year old. I don't care where you were born, or who raised you, but EVERYONE who is a senior in high school knows what a freakin high-five is. I just don't buy it that she has no idea what any of these things mean. Even if she doesn't use the phrase, her parents and brother are normal, and surely they have said them before. I did make it half way, because I hoped it would pick up, but it didn't. If anything it got worse. Since I didn't read it all the way through I didn't give it less than three stars, as it may have been better in the second half, I just won't be around to find out.



View all my reviews

Saturday, July 12, 2014

Silver Mirrors - A.A. Aguirre


Silver Mirrors
Silver Mirrors by A.A. Aguirre

My rating: 2 of 5 stars



I usually enjoy reading almost anything from the husband and wife duo Ann & Andres Aguirre, but Silver Mirrors was painful. Don't get me wrong, it's a good book, a good follow-up to the first, but it just didn't suck me in. It took me over a week to finish, mainly because I would find myself putting it off. This should have been a clue, but I don't like to start a book, and not finish it. Out of almost a thousand books read, I have only quit twelve before finishing them. Maybe it's time to reevaluate that habit, as I have tons of books on my to-read shelf, and will never have enough time to finish them all. Although I will probably not finish the Apparatus Infernum series, that doesn't mean I am done with this author(s). Maybe it's the steampunk genre I should be done with since those are usually not what I enjoy.



View all my reviews

Tuesday, July 1, 2014

Jesus > Religion: Why He Is So Much Better Than Trying Harder, Doing More, and Being Good Enough - Jefferson Bethke


Jesus > Religion: Why He Is So Much Better Than Trying Harder, Doing More, and Being Good Enough
Jesus > Religion: Why He Is So Much Better Than Trying Harder, Doing More, and Being Good Enough by Jefferson Bethke

My rating: 4 of 5 stars


After hearing the epic poem (I think it's a poem?) by Jefferson Bethke on YouTube, I had to look up his book. For years I have had discussions with fellow Christians about the self-righteousness that ultimately turns people away from Jesus. After reading Jesus > Religion, I'm convinced there is a better way. Our job as Christians on earth is not to work, save, retire, die. We are here to show the world his grace, and love to all God's children, not just those we think are deserving. Another plus that was completely new to me is Bethke's take on his relationship with God, and his acceptance. Jesus died for us, there is not a check list of things we must do, buy, say, or show to receive his grace. It is freely given, he chose us, and wants us. We only need to accept.



View all my reviews

Saturday, June 28, 2014

Making Faces - Amy Harmon


Making Faces
Making Faces by Amy Harmon

My rating: 4 of 5 stars



I'm not going to lie, I shed a few tears with Making Faces, which is pretty common so it almost doesn't say anything. Apparently I'm more sensitive than I thought I was, especially when it comes to the underdogs.
Fern has been in love with Ambrose for as long as she can remember, but he is not like her. He's beautiful, popular, and the best wrestler in their school. Fern is small, red-headed, and kind of a dork. Her best friend is her cousin Bailey, and they are inseparable. When Ambrose decides against the wrestling scholarship to Penn State, and instead enlists in the Army, the whole town is shocked. Four of his best friends decide to join him, but he's the only one that returns home. Returning home alone, feeling the guilt of surviving, and no longer looking like anyone remembers, keeps Ambrose feeling bitter. He tries to keep to himself, but the people that love him, especially Fern are determined to be there for him, even if he doesn't want them there.



View all my reviews

Thursday, June 26, 2014

Five Ways to Fall - K.A. Tucker


Five Ways to Fall
Five Ways to Fall by K.A. Tucker

My rating: 5 of 5 stars



K.A. Tucker is a boss at writing books that suck you in. I have always loved Ben, and his wicked sense of humor, but Reese is definitely a match for him there. The two of them are perfect for each other, and Reese deserves such a great guy after the douchebag she married. Though there are plenty of laugh out loud moments, there is a little bit of heart wrenching reality mixed in. Luckily Reese's friends are pretty amazing too, and with Ben around she may stay out of trouble.



View all my reviews

Tuesday, June 24, 2014

Don't Look Back - Jennifer L. Armentrout


Don't Look Back
Don't Look Back by Jennifer L. Armentrout

My rating: 4 of 5 stars



Don't Look Back is one of Armentrout's best. I am not usually crazy about books with high school age characters, even though I have read many of them. I finished this one pretty quick, because it's hard to put down once you get started.
Samantha is found walking down the road in a wooded area, but doesn't remember anything. She doesn't even know her own name. She has no idea where she and her best friend Cassie have been for the past four days, or where Cassie is now. Everyone around her is a stranger, although they all remember her. Friends and family try to help her, but she's not sure all of them are being honest. One thing is clear very early on, that she was a major b***h before she went missing. She's trying to see this as a second chance at redemption, but with Cassie still missing, and memories or hallucinations haunting her, who knows how things will turn out.



View all my reviews

Sunday, June 22, 2014

The Silkworm - Robert Galbraith


The Silkworm
The Silkworm by Robert Galbraith

My rating: 4 of 5 stars



Cormoran Strike is thrilled at all of the new business he's acquired after solving the Lula Landry murder. When Leonora Quine comes to him requesting his services in finding her missing husband, she believes that he is simply throwing another of his usual tantrums. He has left many times before, but isn't usually gone this long. Strike agrees to take the case and track him down. Once he starts investigating, he realizes that one of the last acts Quine accomplished before disappearing was to turn in his finished manuscript to his agent Elizabeth Tassel. Tassel tells Strike that at the time she read the manuscript she was sick with the flu, and admits she only scanned it before forwarding it to two publishers. What she realized later was that the book was libelous, and many who read it would be unhappy with how they were portrayed. She was unsuccessful at getting it back once it was sent out, and all of the people that were characterized negatively had a chance to read it. Once Strike, and his assistant Robin (love her) are able to put together enough of the clues, Strike finds Quine brutally murdered, and left in a macabre scene. As the list of suspects is whittled down, the circumstances become even more bizarre.



View all my reviews

Sunday, June 15, 2014

Review: The Summer I Turned Pretty


The Summer I Turned Pretty
The Summer I Turned Pretty by Jenny Han

My rating: 4 of 5 stars






The Summer I Turned Pretty is a little difficult to rate, and review. Belly (real name Isabel) is annoying, and self-centered, but really aren't most 14/15 year olds? So I think Han did a good job in creating Belly as realistic, even if she did so at the expense of her being well received. Taylor, her bff is even more annoying which helps put Belly's personality in perspective. The rest of the characters, but especially Susannah & Conrad were great.

Belly, her brother Steven, and her mother have spent every summer of her entire life at Susannah's beach house with her two boys Jeremiah & Conrad. Belly has been in love with Conrad her entire life, but it isn't until this summer that he notices her as a girl, and not the annoying tag a long she has always been. Jeremiah has always noticed Belly, but he also knows that Belly only has eyes for Conrad.



View all my reviews

Review: Night Road


Night Road
Night Road by Kristin Hannah

My rating: 5 of 5 stars






Night Road has been on my to-read shelf for almost three years. I was recently looking for books for vacation, and noticed this one. I immediately picked it up, and didn't even read the description because I knew it was something I had been meaning to read. So I do have the actual book, (not the e-book) if any local friends are interested. Unfortunately because I didn't read the description before buying, or reading Night Road I felt like a real idiot trying to discreetly wipe my tears at the beach. Doing this while hoping no one noticed the idiot crying over a book, while in one of the most beautiful places on earth..

As far as my review of the book, it was heartbreaking. Kristin Hannah is extremely good at pulling an emotional response for her characters, from the reader. Parts of it made me so angry, and I felt betrayed on Lexi's behalf. On the other hand, I know as a mother that Jude's grief was more urgent than thinking logically.

I would definitely recommend reading, just do so in private with tissues at hand.



View all my reviews

Wednesday, May 28, 2014

Review: The Devil's Contract


The Devil's Contract
The Devil's Contract by Claire Contreras

My rating: 4 of 5 stars






He gave them a choice.
She took it.
He made her promise two years.
She should have known there was a catch.

^^ That is the books full description.

Totally unexpected. The book description (above)was only four lines, so I really had no idea what kind of book I was in for. Luckily Contreras is a fantastic author, and I knew that I would like it regardless. This did prove to be true, because I could not put it down. Unfortunately book two is not due out until the fall, so I'll have a full spoilers section below.


***Spoilers***
Amara & Colin have been best friends since they were very young. Their friendship led to a relationship, and they're both madly in love with the other. Amara has always refused to put a label on their relationship, or even call it a relationship. Seven years ago, when she was sixteen, her father had gambled away everything they own. Amara's mother was sick with cancer, and their family friend Philip offered them a way out. Amara would agree to work for him for two years in exchange for their debt. Her father initially refused, but Amara agreed knowing it was the only way her mother would be able to continue treatment. She never forgot the agreement, which is why she refused to get in too deep with Colin, but after seven years she didn't think of it as often. Not until Philip's right hand woman, Vivienne LaRue showed up to bring her back to Paris to train for her new job. She's tricked into signing a contract that has different duties than she agreed to, and finds out she'll be working in a high end escort service, as well as for Philip's advertising company. All of the money she makes will go directly to Philip in order to pay off the ten million dollar debt her father owes. One of the requirements of her new job was that she must stop seeing Colin. If her mother wasn't sick again, and needing treatment she would refuse, but she knows her mother won't survive without the best doctors. Of course both she and Colin are heartbroken over leaving each other, but Amara doesn't have a choice. After arriving in Paris she is told to pick a new name to use with clients. She chooses Jasmine Oliver, Jasmine b/c it's what Colin said she always smelled like, and Oliver is Colin's middle name. She also meets Courtney, who like Amara, is the only other exclusive girl working there. She & Courtney will have sex together, for men, but no one touches them. Until Samuel. Sam is an old friend/partner of Philip's who is in love with Courtney. Sam tries to get Amara to find out what Philip has on Courtney so he can get her back, but Courtney isn't saying and refuses to leave. When Amara reports this back to Sam, he books a sex date with Amara so that he can see Courtney. Courtney is only supposed to participate with Amara, but in the end the two of them, Sam and Courtney give in and sleep with each other. Philip is pissed, and after a few threats Sam leaves. Amara is then sent to deliver some kind of classified paperwork to New Orleans, as well as bring back a package. While back in the states she sees Colin who is visiting the city with his fiance. He comes to Amara's hotel room, and tells her that his engagement/marriage to Molly is one of convenience, since he isn't able to inherit his fathers company until he is married. He tells her he'll leave Molly immediately if Amara will agree to marry him. She can't agree, and it kills them both. At this point I'm not sure why she doesn't tell him what's going on, and why she has to stay. She thinks he'll never forgive her, but surely he would understand that choosing him means her mothers death. Amara refuses to speak to her father again, but her mother needs her. Amara goes back to Paris, and continues speaking with a widower client named Nolan by email. He seems nice, and Amara actually enjoys talking with him. She sees Sam again, and he tells her that he and Philip used to work with her grandfather, who disowned her mother when she married her father. He was ruthless, and very wealthy. Over the years he put his trust in the wrong person, and told that person about a bank account he has in Sweden which holds a few invaluable possessions. The catch is that the account is in her name, and there are only three people who know they password. All three of them are looking for her so they can have access. Philip is hoping one of the three will contact her through the company once they realize she is there. He wants her to work with him, and cut Philip out. Nolan finally visits, and she is able to see that he is good looking when the pass each other in Philip's office. He also sends her flowers while she is at the salon, and waves at her from across the street, but during their time together, she is blindfolded and never sees his face. When her mother gets sick and goes into a coma, Amara heads back to the states. Sam is waiting for her in the car (he's paying the driver off) and offers to introduce her to a man that could help her get out of her arrangement with Philip. Philip told her there were two people who could do that for her, Sam, and another unnamed person. Apparently she is about to meet him. After checking in with her mom at the hospital, she finds her awake, but tired. She tells her she will return in the morning after they have both had time to rest. She had planned on going back to her apartment but Philip informed her that her father uses it twice a week to stay with his mistress. She goes on to Philips place, but is picked up by a driver who is to take her to meet the person Sam wanted her to meet. Once she arrives she is shocked to find Colin. Apparently his father owned part of Merchant, (Phillip's company) and Colin inherited it after his death. He said he finding out about the company was shocking enough, but not as bad as finding out his girlfriend, the woman he loves was employed there. He also reveals that he is Nolan. In the end he tells her that he owns her, and she agrees.







View all my reviews

Monday, May 26, 2014

Review: Catch Me


Catch Me
Catch Me by Claire Contreras

My rating: 5 of 5 stars






So far Claire Contreras has not disappointed. Catch me has some heavy subjects; loss, drugs, depression, loneliness, and I think we can all relate to at least one of those. Depression itself is not logical, and it doesn't only happen to the weak or poor. There is no rhyme or reason for those who are affected by it, but there are many ways to live with it. The most important of which is understanding that it doesn't make you less of a person, and it doesn't mean you're weak. The chemical imbalance in the brain that causes depression is no different than the chemical imbalance in hypothyroidism, but for some reason depression has a negative stigma.
Brooklyn is the daughter of a wealthy music label owner, and financially has it all. Of course money can't buy everything, and as a teenager missing out on some of those crucial elements such as love, and affection send her searching for it in the wrong places. After years of being, and feeling alone she meets someone that seems to get her. He makes her feel beautiful, loved, and wanted. Hopefully he'll stick around.



View all my reviews