REVIEW: Becoming Alpha by Aileen Erin

Book Summary

Tessa McCaide has a unique talent for getting into trouble. Then again, it isn’t easy for a girl with visions to ignore what she sees. Luckily Tessa and her family are leaving California and moving halfway across the country, giving her the perfect opportunity to leave her reputation as “Freaky Tessa” behind.

But Tessa doesn’t realize that kissing the wrong guy in her new Texas town could land her in far more trouble than she ever imagined. Like being forced to attend St. Ailbe’s Academy, a secret boarding school for werewolves.

Even if the wrong guy did accidentally turn her into one of “them” and doom her to attending the weirdest high school ever, Tessa can’t help her growing attraction to the mysterious Dastien Laurent.

When vampires attack St. Alibe’s and her visions pinpoint an enemy in their midst, Tessa realizes that boy drama and her newfound canine tendencies might just be the least of her problems.

ADD TO GOODREADS

Seventeen year old Tessa has grown up with the gift of sight. Her touch reveals to her the persons past events. Because of this “gift” Tessa has grown up bullied and has had to change schools often. When her father is hired at a school in Texas Tessa is more than happy to start somewhere new. What starts off as a fresh start for her quickly turns to be the changing point in her life. Tessa is not normal and her encounter with Dastien will make her even more abnormal. Her world changes when she is bitten and mated.

Tessa is a pretty good character. I found myself enjoying her tenacity and her fight to be able to think for herself and to deal with this her way. No matter how connected she felt to her mate she fought to make her own way. Her reactions were normal, her mistakes were understandable, and her decision was ideal. I didn’t find anything I didn’t like about Tessa.

Now Dastien was a riddle himself. He was sweet and caring one moment and then running away the next. In the end you understood why. What made me adore his characters was his ALPHA male. His war against himself and his wolf was so intriguing. I for one found myself wanting to learn as much as I could about him and am looking forward to it in the next books.

The romance was pretty good. Tessa was not a pushover but she also wasn’t so stubborn that it made me frustrated. Even though she had no choice in loving Dastien she still fought to find the “normal” in their relationship. And although many might classify this as an insta-love story, to me it had some building of it.

Becoming Alpha is book one in this series and I for one am looking forward to reading more about Tessa and Dastien’s story.

Pick up this book and prepare for an adventurous read!

HAPPY READING!!

REVIEW: Seeking Havok by Lila Felix

Book Summary

Her life is just as messed up as her name.

All she wanted was a friend---one that knew her and not her circumstances. She needed somewhere to call home. Hers was an open door for countless men looking for the services her mother offered them. She camouflaged herself against lockers and blackboards to avoid the stares and whispers at school.

And then she found Cal...and Fade.

Cal lives like Frankenstein, rising at night to work and just trying to make it until dawn. He avoids most relationships, afraid of the things he will be asked to do. He moonlights as Fade, a radio station DJ who spends hours counseling his peers on their troubles. It was all mundane until Jocelyn called the station.

Cal and Havok pursue a friendship.

Jocelyn and Fade pursue a relationship beyond the confines of the radio waves.

But when Havok disappears, Cal will find that Havok has been guarding a lifetime worth of secrets. And when Fade and Jocelyn’s all night phone conversations cease, he finds a link between them he never saw coming.

ADD TO GOODREADS

Havok doesn’t live the life of a normal eighteen year old. Growing up with a promiscuous mother is not what any girl has ever desired. But that is the hand fate has handed her. She lives a life of loneliness and spends her time looking after a mother that doesn’t care one bit about her. Her only saving grace is the wonderful friends she has found in life. So when she meets Cal she knows that nothing but a friendship can happen between them and he can never find out about her situation. But when danger surrounds Havok she must choose between suffering with her mother of letting Cal into her world and her heart.

Cal is also living a lonely life. He spends his days sleeping and his nights at work and has no social life. That is until the day he bumps into Havok. He is blown away when he realizes that Havok isn’t like his groupies. Cal can be just Cal with Havok, instead of the person many girls swoon over, including his terrible ex-girlfriend.

What starts off as a friendship between these two lonely souls turns into a love so pure and so compassionate that you can’t help but immerse yourself in their story. Cal and Havok struggle with secrets throughout their relationship but that never takes away from Cal’s protective and loving nature. He fights for Havok like no one has ever done for her. He shows her what it is to truly be loved and needed in a beautiful way.

Seeking Havok will have you so connected to the characters that you will feel like you are entangled in their story. Havok and Cal are pretty great characters and their stories had me skipping dinner and wishing for work to be done just so that I could continue reading. The only reason this is a 4star is because I had a very hard time getting over the excessive use of the work "but". It got a little frustrating after a while. Aside from that I didn’t really find a flaw with this book.

Pick it up and prepare to be sucked into Seeking Havok!

HAPPY READING!!

REVIEW: Vain by Fisher Amelie

Book Summary

If you’re looking for a story about a good, humble girl, who’s been hurt by someone she thought she could trust, only to find out she’s not as vulnerable as she thought she was and discovers an empowering side of herself that falls in love with the guy who helps her find that self, blah, blah, blah...then you’re gonna’ hate my story.

Because mine is not the story you read every time you bend back the cover of the latest trend novel. It’s not the “I can do anything, now that I’ve found you/I’m misunderstood but one day you’ll find me irresistible because of it” tale. Why? Because, if I was being honest with you, I’m a complete witch. There’s nothing redeeming about me. I’m a friend using, drug abusing, sex addict from Los Angeles. I’m every girlfriend’s worst nightmare and every boy’s fantasy.

I’m Sophie Price...And this is the story about how I went from the world’s most envied girl to the girl no one wanted around and why I wouldn’t trade it for anything in the world.

ADD TO GOODREADS

Sophie is a pretty shitty person. She uses everyone around her and only cares about herself. She lives an uninhabited life and doesn’t care who she has to stomp on to get her next high or low. When a night of partying turns into a disaster Sophie is not ready for what’s coming next. Fed up with their daughter’s reputation and antics, Sophie’s parents decide to ship her off to Africa. A journey that changes everything within the course of a few months. Her new home is not posh and wonderful like LA, and partying is not an option. With the guidance of her new bosses, her new job, and Ian, Sophie soon realizes that she is the creator of her destiny.

Africa is not anything like LA. There is poverty but there is also a group of malicious humans that murder women and their young. Sophie must come to terms with her new world and learn to accept that her life is changing. No longer does she crave her old life. She lives for waking up to the laughs of her students, the warmness of her peers, and a man that shows her just how much she deserves to be loved.

This leads me to the romance in the book. Three words, it was wonderful. I enjoyed the building relationship between Sophie and Ian and loved the tension at the beginning. I found Ian to be pretty incredible and his decision to stick with Sophie was really kind. There were moments where these two were frustrating but they didn’t outweigh the moments where their love and friendship blossomed.

I can’t say enough how much this book captivated me. To be able to have a small peek into the real world problems in Uganda was heartbreaking but eye-opening. The struggle and the realness of this story had me turning page after page and ignoring everything around me. It focused on real issues, had characters you connected with, as well as a wonderful love story imbedded into its pages.

You should pick up this book and expect to tune out the world as your delve into Sophie’s journey.

HAPPY READING!

REVIEW: Sparrow by Sara Mack

Purchase Link:  AMAZON

Book Summary

When Kyle Dayton was seventeen, he lost his heart to Addison Parks.

It was easy to do. After spending countless summers of boredom with his grandmother at Buhl Lake, Kyle’s world turned upside down the minute Addison appeared. She was unlike any girl he had ever met; she was confident, out-going, and honest. She was beautiful inside and out, and she accepted Kyle for who he was ~ a young man without direction. They shared an amazing summer and, despite living miles apart, Kyle felt sure they had a future.

Until she vanished without a trace.

Where did she go? How could she disappear without saying a word? Was everything between them a lie? Unable to answer his own questions, Kyle had no choice other than to bury his memories and move on with his life. Eight years later, his hard work to forget is threatened when he is forced to return to Buhl Lake. Faced with reminders of Addison, Kyle wonders if he will ever discover the truth.

Little does he know it is about to be revealed.

Sparrow is the story of finding love, losing it, and the uncertain journey to reclaiming it again.

*Due to language and suggestive scenes, Sparrow is recommended for ages 17+

First thank you to Sara Mack for providing an ARC of sparrow to read and review.

Sparrow tells the love story of Kyle and Addison. After meeting at the lake when they were sixteen both feel a connection that transcends time. But after a lovely summer together everything ends abruptly. Kyle's world is turned upside down and he lives his life wondering what happened with Addison. 

Years later when Kyle and Addison are brought together by certain circumstances, Kyle is adamant to get the answers to the questions he has had for a long time. When those questions are answered and a friendship is formed the story takes a turn. What starts as a friendship turns into so much more and eventually they must face reality. As adults they have to face the reality of the screwed up situation they are in and the fire they are playing with. 

As an avid fan of Sara, I wish I could rate this higher and say that I obsessed over Kyle and Addison's story. Sadly, I cannot. I thought their story was sweet. They fell in love and never fell out of it. They had a few "bumps" in the road but those were solved pretty neatly. My issue wasn't with the story itself but with the disconnect with the characters. I didn't feel any connection to Kyle or Addison and wasn't immersed in their story like I wish I could have been. 

Surprisingly,  I found myself more interested in the secondary characters lives, then in the protags. I think Sara did a wonderful job of providing a little background for her secondary characters in the book. I was particularly interested in Jen and look forward to maybe reading more about her.

Overall,  Sparrow was a good read. Although I'm rating this 3 stars,  I would recommend this book to anyone that wants a sweet and light read.

Also, if you haven't checked out Sara's Guardian series, I recommend you do.  

HAPPY READING!

~REVIEW~ Fighting for Infinity by Karen Amanda Hooper

Synopsis

Every moment, every lifetime, every decision—including her choice to erase—has led Maryah to this.

Two outcomes are possible: an infinite happy-ever-after with her kindrily or the final severing of her relationship with Nathan.

Closer to the enemy than ever before, Maryah unravels the diabolical plan that Dedrick has been manipulating into place for centuries. Revelations, secrets, and lies surface faster than Maryah can process. She doesn’t know who to trust, what to believe, or how to save her loved ones from the desolate future Dedrick is so close to executing.

Guided by an enigmatic raven-haired prisoner, Maryah fights body and soul to save Nathan, her kindrily, and countless others. But is her love strong enough to alter a prophecy written in the stars?

ADD TO GOODREADS

~MY REVIEW~

The Plot

Being the final book in the series FFI wraps up Maryah and Nathans story in a wonderful way. This book will answer all of our brewing questions and will have you at the edge of your seat. Throughout book 1 and 2 Maryah has wanted to remember and to know why she erased and in this final book we finally get the answer. An answer I did not see coming! While there are many sweet parts in this book some of it is utterly revolting. Dedrick is on a mission and during that mission he stops at NOTHING to get what he wants.

The Characters

So Maryah frustrated me a bit in this. Throughout the book I wanted her to actually listen to what people were saying but NO she just freaks out all the time. She feels hopeless and helpless throughout most of the book and that was frustrating to see, seeing as how powerful she was in her past lives. Her Kindrily held her hand so much that she became despondent on them. The only time that begins to change is when she meets Rina. Nevertheless, it was a journey seeing her find herself and I did like how her resolve to learn and try lead her to finally finding herself.

So Nathan on the other hand was his regular sweetheart. He has been through so much heartache after losing his “twin flame” that throughout the book you want him to finally get his HEA. But that doesn’t come without consequences and barriers. He has to learn to have faith in Maryah the same way he had in Mary and it’s something he struggles with because of his need to protect Maryah. He learns to not be the leader all the time and in some way learns to have more faith in those around him.

Now this book would not be a perfect without the Kindrily. All sixteen members are just as amazing in this as they were in the previous books. We see more of Krista and Carson’s new relationship as well as catch up with Harmony and Gregory after their reunion. We also meet new members of the Kindrily that will have you smiling from ear to ear; some who you expect and one in particular that will have you squealing with joy. I can’t say more without giving it away so you will have to read and find out! :)

The Romance

I have to admit that in Taking Back Forever I felt like we didn’t get a lot of Maryah and Nathan, at least not enough for my liking. In FFI there was the love and really romantic ending but because Maryah is on a different journey this time she and Nathan aren’t together a lot during the book. The times they are, is spent discussing plans to get rid of Dedrick as well as save their loved one. Don’t get me wrong though the “new” relationship between both characters is still growing and we get to see Nathan try to help her remember as well as come to love and have faith in Maryah and Mary as one person.

The Wrap-Up

Although I was frustrated with Maryah a lot throughout this book and some parts lagged a little I wouldn’t not read it again! There are so many things we learn and some AMAZING characters in this series that I really just want more! I want more of Krista and Carson’s relationship but mostly more of Rina and Dakota. So here’s my plea Karen for more Rina and Dakota!! :)

Happy Reading!! 

Favorite Quotes:

"You never have, nor will you ever burn out. You are the light of all my lives. Then, now, and eternally."

"People they come together. People they fall apart. No one can stop us now "Cause area all made of stars."

~REVIEW~ Love & Decay (Episode #5) by Rachel Higginson

Series: Love & Decay series

Episode: #5

Author: Rachel Higginson

Genre: Dystopian Romance
Purchase: AMAZON ~ B&N

Episode #5:

Morning has come to the lonely farmhouse where Reagan, Haley and the Parkers set up camp and watched as Page came down with strep throat. Hendrix and Nelson haven’t returned from their medicine run. Page is still very sick and the “contingency plan” hangs in the air.

Determined to save the boys she has come to care so deeply about, Reagan teams up with Vaughan to set out and rescue Hendrix and Nelson from whatever trouble they’ve gotten themselves into.

However, before they can liberate anybody, they themselves are captured.

Introduced to another scary settlement, Reagan is split up from the Parker brothers and put in the custody of a boy not much older than her. Kane Allen is possessive and fierce in his attempt to own and possess Reagan. She learns a fear that even in her dangerous, Zombie-filled life, she has not known before.

Before the night is over she has to find a way to escape Kane and his horrifying captivity. She will face armed guards, starving Zombies and the worst danger of them all- Kane.

~MY REVIEW~

In Episode # 5 we are back to Reagan's POV and are anxiously awaiting the arrival of Hendrix and Nelson. But when night falls and morning comes and there is no word from the two Parker brothers Reagan and Vaughn set out to bring them back. During this trip they have a heart to heart about Reagan's feelings for Hendrix and finally get things out in the open. And then trouble arrives.

When Reagan and Vaughn are captured by a new settlement they are at the mercy of the men and the leader there. But this settlement is different. Even if Reagan and Vaughn pretend to be together it doesn't matter to the people in this new settlement. Especially to Reagan's captor, Kane. Kane calls dibs on Reagan and believes that he can offer her a good life so he keeps her prisoner against her will. Because if Reagan doesn't stay, the Parker brothers will meet their deadly end.

But they underestimate Reagan and the Parker brothers. As Reagan learns about the new settlement rules she is also planning her escape because no matter how much of gentlemen Kane is she refuses to stay against her will. And while planning their escape they make allies in the settlement.

If there was one thing that I missed in this episode it was Hendrix. He is barely in the episode and after two episode without him I missed him! But I'm not worrying about it because I know Rachel will give us more of him soon! :D

Don't miss out on episode 5 of this zombieventure!!

HAPPY READING!BUY Love & Decay
(Episode #1 is currently FREE)

~REVIEW~ Take Care, Sara by Lindy Zart

Book: Take Care, Sara
Author: Lindy Zart

Genre: Contemporary Romance, Inspirational

Purchase: AMAZON ~ B & N

Synopsis:

You breathe in, you breathe out, and everything you know is gone.

Sara Walker knows firsthand what it feels like to have your reality ripped away, scrambled, and shoved back at you in an undone puzzle where pieces are missing and nothing fits. She's lost so much and is struggling to live and to find the strength to forgive herself for being human. With the help of Lincoln, her husband's brother, Sara realizes it's not about finding who she used to be, but about finding who she is now.

You breathe in, you breathe out, and everything you know isn't gone, but reborn.

~MY REVIEW~

"Time healed all wounds was the saying. That saying was a lie. Time made the wounds deepen; it made them grow. "

Okay so let me start off by saying that Take Care, Sara was a book that I kept telling myself would probably not be something I would want to read. Then I saw all the reviews and I still told myself maybe its pretty good. And I was so wrong. This book was so much more that good. It was PHENOMENAL!

"She loved someone: they died."

Sara Walker has had to live a life of constant loss. That is all that she has ever had; all she ever knew. Every person she loved was taken away from her and she was left alone. Her ray of sunshine was her husband Cole, who she loved with all that she was. But tragedy intervenes again and Sara loses him as well.  When a person has loss as much as Sara there is no light in the darkness. She is the one breathing and that just doesn't seem fair to her. 

But her husband brother will not allow her to stop living.

“You hold on tight from now on, so tight it hurts. Got it? Don’t let go of me, not ever. Don’t worry about hurting me, don’t worry about suffocating me, don’t worry about holding on too tight. You hold on and you never let go. You’ll only hurt me, I’ll only suffocate, if you let go. Promise.”

Lincoln Walker has always been close to his older brother and has always looked up to him. But living with the loss of Cole has broken him. And not only did he lose Cole he is also losing Sara. And he will not let that happen. If there is one thing that will shatter him it is to watch her taken as well. So with his snarky and won't take no attitude he is hell bent on helping Sara LIVE. When she retreats he pushes harder. And when she needs him he is there at her beck and call. But throughout that he also has to fight not only his pain but also the secret he has lived with. One that consumes him every waking day.

"The room wasn’t so overwhelming with Lincoln in it. The world wasn’t so tragic with him before her, holding her hands. Sara even thought maybe she could get through anything if Lincoln were with her."

Together Sara and Lincoln learn to deal with their pain and guilt from losing the one person they love above all.They find a solace in each other that they don't even see coming. And a chance at LOVE that takes them surprise.

As you connect with Sara and feel her pain and guilt throughout the story you will also find yourself coming to the same revelation as she. Lincoln is her reason for wanting to LIVE. Because Lincoln is so much more than just a hero in this book. YES he will have you swooning, YES he will help Sara, YES he will set himself free from his secret. But Lincoln will do what some male book hero's can't  and that is wrap himself around your heart and never let go.

Zart does a phenomenal job immersing you in this story of loss, pain, acceptance, and LOVE. So much so that you actually feel the pain as if it were your own. This is not a book for the weak-hearted. It will pull at your heartstrings and will have you ugly crying most of the time. But there are also very sweet moments and moments that will have you smiling.
Don't miss out on this wonderful read! Pick up your copy NOW!

HAPPY READING!

~REVIEW~ Dressed In White by Jessica Gibson

Book: Dressed in White
Author: Jessica Gibson
Genre: Contemporary Romance
Purchase Link: AMAZON

Synopsis:

Lorelei Peters had everything she had ever dreamed of. Amazing friends, a sexy boyfriend, and a job that she absolutely loved.

Dillon Brockwell was all she had ever wanted. Handsome, successful, and he loved her as much as she loved him. Life was going along the way it was supposed to, until someone from Dillon’s past shows up and shatters everything to pieces.

Can Lorelei and Dillon get through all the craziness and make it down the aisle? Or will lies of omission be enough to derail them forever.

~MY REVIEW~

Lorelei has the perfect life. With a a career she loves, great friends like Roxy and Stacy, and a loving boyfriend, nothing can go wrong. So when Dillon finally proposes, she is over the moon. She has waited for the man she loves to propose and nothing could ruin their happiness. But the next day her once perfect life turns upside down. One knock on her door brings her happiness crashing down around her and has her questioning her trust in the man she is set to married.

Everyone makes mistakes. Even loving, gorgeous and caring Dillon. The problem is that his mistake can cause him his chance at happiness. Her name is Estella. And Estella isn't going away without fighting for what she believes is hers.

Lorelei must decide if her love for Dillon is enough to get her through the hurdles that are begin thrust her way. There is so much a girl can go through before walking down the isle.

Dressed in White is so much more than a romance. Sometimes a love story doesn't end after a proposal. Life doesn't stop there and Lorelei and Dillon's story shows you what is possible. There are truths uncovered that would have any women running for the hills. But with true love jumping hurdles is possible. 

Also weaved in the pages of Dressed in White is the beginning of a love between two characters that will also face hurdles in the future. Kayla and Dane's relationship blooms from a friendship to so much more throughout the book and I cannot wait for their book to release!

If you are looking for a quick and sweet contemporary romance this is the book for you! Don't miss out on this wonderful read!

HAPPY READING!!

~REVIEW~ Purpose (Soul Savers #2) by Kristie Cook

Synopsis:

New Adult Paranormal Romance by bestselling author Kristie Cook ** Mature Content ** Recommended for ages 16+ due to sexual situations and language

The story that began with Promise continues in Book 2 of the Soul Savers Series.

Defending souls is her purpose...but can she save her own?

Lost in despair, Alexis teeters on the edge of an abyss, her lifeline of hope fraying into a thin thread. If it snaps, she'll plunge into complete darkness. With the help of her son and her writing, she's been able to hold on. Until now. Erratic impulses, disturbing delusions and her own demonic blood threaten her sanity. When she's forced to choose between hanging onto hope or letting go to serve her Amadis purposes, she faces a decision with inconceivable sacrifices.

Alexis runs to the one place she thinks will provide answers, only to find herself at the center of another battle of good versus evil, not only with the Daemoni, not only within herself...but also against the worst opponent imaginable. But even if she wins, what will she lose?

~MY REVIEW~

In book 2 of the Soul Savers series we find Alexis in a deep depression after the loss of Tristan, 7 years ago. Each day is as worse as the last for her. Dorian, her son, is her only light in the darkness but even he can't keep away her pain. The love of her life is fading from her memory and she refuses to let him go. On top of that she is starting to feel different and is getting threatening visits from a vicious vampire warning her to stop writing her story.

So when the Deamoni try to plant their seeds of doubt into her mind, Alexis takes off. With no idea what is happening to her and her still very real pain she goes back to her paradise. Her and Tristan's safe house in Florida. There she tries to focus on bettering herself and figuring out a plan on getting Tristan back.

But the Deamoni are in uproar over Alexis story and it makes the perfect excuse to capture Alexis without repercussions. When they attack they aren't prepared for the beast they will have to face. One that will do anything to protect Alexis and one that they thought was on their side. And in lieu of not spoiling the book I will not reveal who that "beast" is.:)

After the attack Alexis is faced with the ultimate decision. Join the Amadis and fight for peace and love or join the Daemoni and have Tristan and Dorian without any worries in the world.
Purpose is filled with pain, despair, new villains, unexpected surprises and lots of love. My disappointment with this story was that more then half the book was based on Alexis's despair over losing Tristan. Although I understood her pain I also thought that she only worried about herself and not so much of the others. She was practically a nonexistent mom to Dorian and at times she made it seem like he was just an afterthought. It was something that in my eyes made her seem selfish.

All in all Purpose was an okay read. It did feel more like a filler book than anything else which is what most second books in the series turn out to be. I will continue the series at a later time just to see what is next for the Amadis.

Happy Reading!

~Buy books 1-5 in the Soul Savers Series~

(Promise is currently FREE)

 

~BLOG TOUR~ REVIEW & GIVEAWAY: SAFE (Conquering #1) by Ryan Michele

Book Information:

Moving to Williamsfield, Georgia is not what she wants … it’s what she needs. An escape—from him.
After being brutally abused for years, Sadie seeks sanctuary and safety. But can she ever be safe when evil has his eyes on her from afar.
Landon doesn’t want a relationship. He’s been burned too badly to want anything more from a woman than the physical, but one look at Sadie and he’s rethinking everything. 
Can trust be formed when it’s been so beaten down? Can love conquer fears? What happens when evil doesn’t give up? Can Sadie ever really be safe?

BUY: Amazon ~ Barnes & Noble

MY REVIEW

"Then be scared with me. I want to be your rock when you need strength, you cushion when you fall, your heart when you need love, your safety net. Always."

Sadie lives in her own personal hell. Once the adoring man, Rob, captured Sadie's love and attention. But for the past three years he has done nothing but tear her life apart. When Sadie ends up in the hospital, again, her mother does not turn a blinds eye this time. Afraid for the people she loves so much, but also for herself, Sadie moves to Georgia with her aunt. During her stay there she captures the attention of Landon Ellison. As her and Landon become friends she finds comfort in him that she has with no one else. But she can't trust him or anyone else. She lives each day in fear and struggles through getting her life back.

Landon has lived a life a reckless life for the past few years. Since the day that the "love of his life" ripped his heart apart he has lived with anger and indifference. He doesn't do relationships and definitely doesn't keep any women around. But Sadie walks into his life and suddenly he can't stay away. Landon turns out to be this wonderful man that wants to care for Sadie and get her to trust him. But he quickly learns that Sadie needs to be protected as well. Protected from the demons she is not willing to share with him. But when Rob doesn't stop hunting her down Landon comes face to face with his greatest nightmare. Keeping Sadie SAFE becomes his life's mission.

SAFE is an emotionally touching story. The abuse that Sadie goes through and fear that she feels is so real that you will feel her emotions throughout the whole book. Not to say that she didn't have her moments when I wanted to strangle her. But what she goes through is a real life situation and the author portrayal of it was so expertly written. So when she finally confronts her demons you are right there rooting for her to finally get her HEA. But although her story has an HEA there are many more storylines that are not finished. People Sadie loved were also affected by Rob's evil and  I cannot wait to read their story.

Buy this and enjoy it!

HAPPY READING!

~GIVEAWAY~

a Rafflecopter giveaway

REVIEW & GIVEAWAY: Guardian by Sara Mack

 

Book Information:
True love never dies.
Emma Donohue begs to differ.

When a late night accident claims the love of her life, Emma secludes herself in memories of James. In his sandy brown hair and clear blue eyes. In their innocent first kiss and declarations of love. In their plans for a life together after college. But happy dreams can’t rid her of the guilt she carries. She can’t erase her actions the night he died. She can’t erase her reaction at his funeral. And she can’t erase the hollow void that fills her chest and consumes her heart.

The first time Emma hears James’ voice, she’s astounded. It sounds as if he’s standing right beside her, and she fears her shattered heart is trying to drive her mad. But, as she continues to hear the voice, she finds comfort in it. With the help of her best friend Shel and handsome newcomer Dane, she tries to move forward and start living again.

Until the voice in her head turns out to be more. So much more.

You know what they say.
True love never dies.

MY REVIEW

(A huge THANK YOU to Sara Mack for allowing me to read and review her book!)

Guardian is the first book in a trilogy and starts off with a tragedy. Like most stories, starting off with tragedy is what encourages readers to read on. Well at least it did to me. And I must say I wasn't disappointed. 

Emma and James have always been close. Growing up best friends and then turning into lovers, they were inseparable and madly in love. When tragedy strikes Emma is left with a hollowness that cannot be filled or replaced. She drowns in depression and is content with staying locked in her room and not living her life. But then her best friend steps in and things start to look up a little. 

Shelby refuses to let Emma drown in her grief so she concocts a plan to get her out the house and keep her busy. They get jobs and hang out with old and new friends. But Shelby still doesn't reach Emma completely. She helps her forget for a little while but when Emma is alone thoughts of James consume her. Until they become more than thoughts. 

When James turns out to be  a Guardian, a protector, Emma is ecstatic with the change of circumstances and begins to live her life again. But not really. She lives for her time alone with James in her bedroom and refuses to let him leave again. Even if she can't have him in real life she would settle for just having him near.

But in real life there is Dane. Sweet, loving and funny Dane. What starts off as a friendship between the two quickly turns into much more for Dane. He really cares for Emma but knows that she will always love James and never open up to anyone else. He settles for helping her through her grief and maybe one day being able to find a place in her heart. But he's fighting against a ghost. One that refuses to leave. 

Throw into all the fried a psycho ex friend, Guardian will have you wrapped up in its pages. 

I look forward to reading on and finding out what happens. If I had one wish for future books it would be for Emma to learn to deal with reality. I know that many who read this will be okay with what transpires but to me its unhealthy and I would like to see her get better. I adore James but let's be real, he's dead. 

Anyways, what are you waiting for? Pick this up and check out Emma, James and Dane's story! Yes Dane because if you haven't noticed I totally adore him! :D

HAPPY READING!!

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REVIEW: Shooting Scars (The Artist Trilogy #2) by Karina Halle

Book Information:
Sometimes the right choice can be the deadliest.

When Ellie Watt made the ultimate sacrifice for Camden McQueen, she never thought it would be easy. But walking away with her ex-lover, Javier Bernal, in order to ensure Camden’s safety has brought a whole new set of dangers. With Javier’s plans for Ellie growing more secretive by the moment, Ellie must find a way to stay ahead of the game before her past swallows her whole.

Meanwhile, Camden’s new life is short-lived. Fueled by revenge and pursued by authorities, he teams up with an unlikely partner in order to save Ellie. But as Camden toes the line between love and retribution, he realizes that in order to get back the woman he loves, he may have to lose himself in the process. He might just turn into the very man he’s hunting.

Told in dual POV from Camden and Ellie.

MY REVIEW

Do you know that book that keeps you up all night and forces you to keep your eyes opened just a little bit longer? The one that gives you the rare book hangover?

No? Well then try reading The Artist Trilogy!

Yes? Well you know how I felt while reading Shooting Scars.

Shooting Scars starts off where Sins & Needles ended. Ellie has traded herself in to Javier in order to save Camden and his family. The ultimate sacrifice for a girl that wants nothing more then to be GOOD. But when you are being held hostage by the devil that you once loved, being good is not an easy feat.

Ellie becomes a pawn in Javier's game of revenge and she is alone. With no news on Camden and no one around but Javier and his minions she is drowned with doubts. She hates Javier and tries over and over again cause him pain for the hurt he caused her. What she quickly learns is that sometimes love and hate are hand in hand. And eventually she realizes that they both destroy. Because Javier shows her over and over again that he isn't the man she once loved. He is now handing her to his greatest adversary on a silver platter. And because Ellie does want her revenge and does doubt that she could be good, and does want to protect Camden she throws herself to the wolves. And in the process loses herself a little to Javier's evil.

Now, Javier Bernal is not the same man that Ellie met many years ago. He's bigger, badder and now the head of an elite cartel. But most of all he's out for revenge. Revenge on the man that turned his back on him. The very man that Ellie wants punished. So when he has Ellie in his possession he uses HER and her "skills" to extract revenge.But he is also set on getting what's his back. Ellie is his and he does everything to show her that they are alike. Evil and ruthless. But Camden McQueen stands in his way.

Which brings me to Camden. My goodness Camden. Let me just start off with saying that I LOVE Karina for giving us his POV in this book. It just wouldn't have worked without it. I enjoyed being in his head and loved to see his yummy self become a total bad-ass. He is put through the runner in Shooting Scars and throughout the pages you are screaming at him to MAN UP! And my goodness does he do it. You guys have met the sweet Camden but you guys have no idea whats in store for you when "Connor" or Camden 2.0, as I like to call him, comes out to play! to save the women he loves Camden teams up with Gus and together they set out in search of Ellie.

And when they do find her all hell breaks loss! This whole book is chuck full of action at every corner! From thrilling car chases to cream bombs(you have to read to find out what I mean!) Shooting Scars will set you on an intense but thrilling adventure! If you thought Sins & Needles was dark, thrilling and action packed, you have no idea! PICK THIS UP!!

Read this series because you are missing out!

HAPPY READING!

~BLOG TOUR~REVIEW: Learning to Trust by Cynthia P. O'Neill

Book Information:

When Garrett Andrews finds something that catches his eye, he goes after it, letting nothing stand in the way of what he wants to possess. The first woman to arouse his heart could be the one person who helps him to finally open up and feel again.

Laurel Hart was a swimming champion until a frightful event and unknown health issues derailed her career. With a recent degree from MIT in Bio-Medical Engineering and an offer to join one of the leading innovators of medical equipment in the world, she plans on making a new life for herself; letting nightmares from her past stay in the past, or so she thinks.

Neither of them wants to date, but she finds herself drawn to him and Garrett uses every excuse to be near her. Laurel’s afraid to let anyone get close, but finds solace in his arms. Garrett is finally able to be himself around someone. Together, they discover a connection that manages to soothe both their souls and starts opening them up to new possibilities.

Once Garrett finds out about Laurel’s past, all rules in regards to "relationships" are changed, because one false move could drive her away. He attempts to calm her nightmares and gain her trust so he can show her who he really is and the relationship he desires from her.

Will they be able to overcome the damage their hearts have encountered? Can they find happiness? Can they trust their minds or will life throw each of them another curveball? Only time will tell if they can learn to trust.

Connect with Cynthia: Website / Facebook / Twitter / Goodreads / Pinterest / Blog

MY REVIEW

(Thank you to Cynthia for allowing me the chance to read and review Learning to Trust and to Release Day Diva for allowing me to participate in the blog tour!)

Laurel Hart was raped by a guy she trusted and now has issues with trusting anyone. She is set to graduate from MIT and find a job far away from the memories. She and her cousin, Grace, are both excited when the opportunity to interview for the same company comes along. Cue Garrett Andrews.

Garrett Andrews, the HR employee at Waters Biomedical, is used to getting what he wants when he wants. And what he wants is Laurel. After a first glance she fascinates him so much that he is consumed with her. He would do anything to have her next to him. Even if he must lie to her. 

Laurel isn’t used to the type of guy that Garrett is but she feels safe with him and he excites a desire in her she never had. Laurel quickly learns to trust another man and what it is to actually feel passion. Lavished with all of Garrett’s attention and gifts Laurel lets her guard down. But all that glitter isn’t gold and Laurel is left feeling betrayed. On top of all that the guy that raped her isn’t giving up on her and continues to hunt her.

Learning to Trust is a pure romance/erotica novel. The story doesn’t get too vulgar but definitely has many awkward moments. It was a very well written book but to me seemed pretty implausible. Laurel had suffered through something pretty tragic and I didn’t understand how she quickly trusted Garrett and allowed him to control her and her life. I would have liked her to take charge of her own life after what she went through but sadly that doesn’t happen.

Cynthia definitely leaves us with many questions at the end of this story. I look forward to seeing what Garrett is hiding and hope that Laurel grows as a character in the next book. 

Happy Reading! 

Check out the other stops on the tour!!

REVIEW: Painted Faces by L.H. Cosway

Book Information: 
Come forth with an open mind, for an unconventional tale of love..

Dublin native Freda Wilson considers herself to be an acquired taste. She has a habit of making offensive jokes and speaking her mind too often. She doesn't have the best track record with first impressions, which is why she gets a surprise when her new neighbour Nicholas takes a shine to her.

Nicholas is darkly handsome, funny and magnetic, and Freda feels like her black and white existence is plunged into a rainbow of colour when she's around him. When he walks into a room he lights it up, with his quick wit and charisma. He is a travelling cabaret performer, but Freda doesn't know exactly what that entails until the curtains pull back on his opening night.

She is gob-smacked and entirely intrigued to see him take to the stage in drag. Later on, Nicholas asks her if she would like to become his show assistant. Excited by the idea, she jumps at the chance. Soon she finds herself immersed in a world of wigs, make-up and high heels, surrounded by pretty men and the temptation of falling for her incredibly beautiful employer.

In this story of passion and sexual discovery, Nicholas and Freda will contend with jealousy, emotional highs and lows, and the kind of love that only comes around once in a lifetime.

MY REVIEW

“Every memory makes me who I am right now, in this moment. Good or bad, all experiences shape you.”

For Freda (Fred) life is pretty much bland. She has no love life and doesn't even believe that she would ever have one because of her weight. She is used to being the girl that is too outspoken and too "fat". But she's okay with that because she is content in life and has her love of baking and good friends. But the moment Nicholas Turner walks into her life Freda doesn't expect the change coming. 

Nicholas Turner is a pretty boy with a charming personality and a way with words that will have you cringing in delight. The moment he lays eyes on Fred he is enchanted and set on being her friend and maybe getting her into his bed. But Fred isn't just any girl that will hop into bed with him. She also doesn't flinch when she discovers that he has two personalities. 

Nicholas Turner is a man through and through. He will capture your attention with his salacious foreplay and sweet ways. But the moment he sets foot on stage Vivica Blue comes out to play. She as well will capture you with her beauty and her melodic voice. 

When Fred becomes his assistant and the two can't fight off the desire building in them this pair will set fire to the pages. Through their journey of sexual discovery, hurt, jealousy and desire a love is built that cannot be denied. 

I truthfully believed that Painted Faces would be an awkward read and couldn't fathom that I would completely enjoy it but I was intrigued with synopsis and so I dove into this book. Let me just say that I am so glad I read this story. It was a wonderful read and completely different from anything I've read. 

Nicholas was such a wonderful guy with a sad past and I couldn't help but love him! He was frank with his intentions and he had a way with words that made ME blush! Getting to know his story put everything into perspective and made me understand him even more.

Freda was such a rich character because of the realness to her. She didn't back down from Nicholas and was as honest as they come with the people around her. Her friends found her to be too brash and annoying but I found her to be perfect. She said what ever the heck she wanted and didn't sugarcoat anything, even when she was embarrassed.I myself felt like I was experiencing her life through her eyes. And at the end of the day that is exactly how you want to experience a book; submerged in the world created by the author.

Fred's friends as well as Nicholas friends bring a whole lot of enjoyment to the book and are each unique in their own ways. Some you will adore while others you will ask yourself why they are even a friend but each one contributes to the story at hand. 

The only critique I have for this book was that I felt like the situation with Aaron was swept under the rug to quickly and was honestly a pointless addition to the book because of it. Other than that little tidbit I thoroughly enjoyed Nicholas and Freda's unique story! 

Buy it. Read it. Love it!

HAPPY READING!!