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.

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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: Something Strange and Deadly by Susan Dennard

Synopsis

There's something strange and deadly loose in Philadelphia...

Eleanor Fitt has a lot to worry about. Her brother has gone missing, her family as fallen on hard times, and her mother is determined to marry her off to any rich young man who walkers by. But this is nothing compared to what she's just read in the newspaper—

The Dead are rising in Philadelphia.

And then, in a frightening attack, a zombie delivers a letter to Eleanor... from her brother.

Whoever is controlling the Dead army has taken her brother as well. If Eleanor is going to find him, she'll have to venture into the lab of the notorious Spirit-Hunters, who protect the city from supernatural forces. But as Eleanor spends more time with the Spirit-Hunters, including the maddeningly stubborn yet handsome Daniel, the situation becomes dire. An now, not only is her reputation on the line, but her very life may hang in the balance.

ADD TO GOODREADS

 
The Plot

Zombies are slowly taking over the country. For everyone in Philadelphia their perfect lives is about to change forever. Zombies have arrived in Philadelphia. And one of them attacks to deliver a note for Eleanor. A note that her brother has sent about being delayed.

When Eleanor realizes that her brother might be in danger she turns to the only people who might help her. The Spirit-Hunters that have arrived in Philadelphia. She is quickly thrust into the world of zombies and the Spirit-Hunters where she learns much more about herself and her will to find the answers to her questions.

Not only does she have to worry about finding her brother. She must also deal with an overbearing mother that if forcing Eleanor to find a husband, a royal that has his sights set on her, and a boy that sets her blood on fire. In Something Strange and Deadly, Eleanor learns to what extents she would go to save her brother and the people she cares about.

The Characters

Eleanor Fitts is the daughter of the once royal Philadelphia Fitts. With her brother missing she is charged with trying to save her family’s wealth. Even if that means potentially marrying someone she does not get along with. But Eleanor refuses to let anyone tell her what to do. She has a determination and stubbornness that is inflexible. When faced with the zombies and a city that is filled with evilness she willingly offers to help and learn. She is fierce and doesn’t let anyone bully her. Female leads like Eleanor make books much more enjoyable.

Joseph, Jie and Daniel are the Spirit-Hunters that Philadelphia has called upon. They are there for one purpose and one purpose only. To rid the city of the zombies. When Eleanor’s mother unleashes an evil spirit into the world, they are determined to help Eleanor send it back to hell. What they don’t count on is the lack of support of the city and the “hungry” zombies attacking nobles. As they try to find Ethan, find a way to kill the “hungry” zombies as well as regular zombies, and banish an evil spirit, the Spirit-Hunters come to realize that the problem is much more dangerous than they thought.

The Romance

Although there is a building romance in the book there isn’t much of it. Daniel and Eleanor are two different people with two different duties in life. Although their time together is sweet it is also infrequent.

The Wrap-up

Something Strange and Deadly was a pretty good story. I enjoyed the historical aspect as well as the zombie aspect to the story. There were parts I thought were slow but overall I liked the story woven. Because I live in Philadelphia I found myself imagining all the places the author portrayed in the book. Overall a pretty good read. I look forward to reading more about Eleanor’s new abilities and her relationship with the Spirit-Hunters. 

Happy Reading!!

REVIEW: The Resurrection of Aubrey Miller by L.B. Simmons

Synopsis

Sometimes death isn't the end. Sometimes it's a beautiful beginning...

Death.

For some, it's simply one of life's certainties, nothing more. For others, it's merely a fleeting thought, one often overshadowed by the reckless delusion that they have been blessed with the gift of immortality.

For Aubrey Miller, death is the definition of her very existence. Overcome with the guilt resulting from the loss of her beloved family, she alters her appearance from the once beautiful, blonde-haired, blue-eyed little girl to that of one shrouded in complete darkness, enveloping herself in her own unbreakable fortress of solitude as a form of protection for others.

As she enters her first year of college, her goal is simple: Earn a degree with the least amount of social interaction as possible. What she never anticipates is the formation of very unlikely relationships with two people who will change her life in ways she never believed possible: Quinn Matthews, the boisterous former pageant queen, and Kaeleb McMadden, a childhood friend from her past who never really let her go.

Over the years, as their connections intertwine and grow, a seemingly indestructible bond is formed between the three...

But when death painfully reemerges, Aubrey is lost once again, burying herself deeper than ever before inside the familiar fortification of her fears.

Will the refuge of friendship, the solidarity of life-long bonds, and the power of unconditional love be enough to do the impossible?

Will they be enough to finally bring about...

The Resurrection of Aubrey Miller?

****WARNING - Due to the graphic nature of some scenes, this book is intended for mature audiences only. Contains adult language and themes.****

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~MY REVIEW~

The Plot

“Life is full of so much that you refuse to let yourself experience. The blanketing comfort of love, the fulfillment of contagious laughter, the peace of finding true joy, the butterflies of uncontainable excitement…these are all things that make up life. They should never be taken for granted. You of all people should understand that, sweetheart.”

Since the age of seven Aubrey has watched as everyone close to her had died. Living with the guilt of their deaths she invented Raven. When she starts college she is hell-bent on keeping everyone away from her. But she doesn’t count on her new roommate and her past breaking every barrier she has built. As they show her what it truly is to love and care for someone Raven comes to realize that maybe Aubrey isn’t completely gone. But her journey isn’t easy and she must come face to face with her demons even if she rather not.

The Characters

“Every being in this world makes an impact on at least one person they encounter during their lifetime. You can change the course of someone’s life by just a kind word, a hateful one, or even by simply choosing not to say anything at all. Every choice you make has the potential to create a ripple effect, trickling into and affecting the lives of others.”

I have to say that I enjoyed all of the characters equally. Every one of them had their own personal demons that they had to overcome so it made the story much more involved. This is one of the first stories I’ve read where the secondary characters didn’t feel that way. Quinn and Kaeleb were not picture perfect had their own battles to overcome. They were the best of friends and helped Aubrey find her former self. But there came a point where Aubrey had to fight for herself and that was truly the part where I came to adore her because she finally faced her fears and let “Raven” go.

The Romance

“I hope that one day you’ll find that source of light and let it heal you, too. Because if you do, it will illuminate your path and eventually lead you home. To me.”

Kaeleb and Aubrey were wonderful together. Kaeleb was cocky but so adorable and so understanding. When Aubrey fought against him he fought back and pushed her just the right amount. When he needed her to fight her own battles he kept his distance but didn’t give up. I freaking ADORED him! The chemistry between these two was mesmerizing and I could not get enough of them!

The Wrap-up

So what are you waiting for? Pick up the Resurrection of Aubrey Miller and prepare to love it! If you’ve read Running in Place, you will love these two just as much as Noah and Tate. If there is one thing I can always count on in an L.B. Simmons book it is the swoonworthy boys!:)

Happy Reading!

~REVIEW~ Entwined by Elisabeth Naughton

 

Synopsis

ZANDER—The most feared of all the Eternal Guardians. It’s rumored he can’t be killed, and he always fights like he has nothing to lose. But as a descendant of the famed hero Achilles, he’s got to have a vulnerability… somewhere.

Forces of daemons are gathering and have broken through the barriers of the Underworld. Now more than ever the Eternal Guardians are needed to protect both their own realm and the humans’. Zander can’t afford to think about what might have been with the bewitching physician he once regarded as his soul mate. But with eternity stretching before him, he also can’t fathom spending his life without the one woman who makes him feel most alive. Perhaps he’s found his weakness, after all…

ADD TO GOODREADS 

~MY REVIEW~

The Plot

ZANDER is one of the oldest living Argonauts in Argolea. Cursed with spending eternity watching those he loves die, Zander has lived a life filled with pain. Ten years ago he finally found his soul-mate, only to be divided by manipulation and miscommunication from others. With no purpose in life, Zander does the only thing that will give him one. He decides to marry Isadora. But the fight with Atalanta's daemons is heating up and Zander comes to the realization that he might be immortal but can be killed. He also gets something he never knew could happen; the possibility of a second chance with Callia, his soul-mate. But attaining a second chance is difficult when she despises him and he holds resentment towards her for destroying him ten years earlier. Entwined is their story...

The Characters

Zander reminds me so much of Zsadist from JR Wards Black Dagger Brotherhood series. He is such a lonely and destructive Argonaut. He has lived centuries in pure loneliness while he see’s his brothers and family go on to a better place. He has never had anything to live for and wishes so much for something so that he can have a purpose in his life. Underneath all that agony and angst there is a man suffering because of his curse. Although he seems detached at times when he is with Callia you get to see just how deep his love and devotion is. He is a fierce protector and is loyal warrior.

Now although I enjoyed Casey in Marked I have to say that I adored Callia. She is fragile in the beginning and is manipulated by those that she thinks love her. As she grows to learn about her strengths and fight for what she wants she turns into a fierce heroine. She doesn’t cower when Zander becomes intimidating and she doesn’t sit back and let others fight her battles.Although hard headed at times I admired her determination and that she wasn't a pushover.

Then there is Max. In Marked we were introduced to him and some may have realized the connection he has to the Argonauts. In Entwined you will finally get the answers to his connection. He was such a wonderful kid but was raised under the poison of Atalanta so that is his biggest struggle. Seeing the strength he had was so heartbreaking only because of the environment he grew up in.

I want to point out all the other characters because they are what makes this series what it is. I enjoyed catching up with Casey,Theron, Isadora, and the other Argonauts. Isadora was pretty weak in this book and a bit of a cow so I’m looking forward to getting into her head in Twisted. Orpheus and Nick are also a mystery that I am dying to unravel.

The Romance

Zander and Callia have so much bad history that it is a long journey for these two. They are both living through the pain of the decisions made ten years earlier. Decisions that broke the foundation they both tried so hard to build. When they finally have to confront their past their story truly begins. The love these two have for each other has held over 10 years so when they both are thrust together it is both wonderful and tumultuous. Zander and Callia are both kindhearted as well as have strong personalities. Their moments together were great but also frustrating at times because of the miscommunications.

The Wrap-Up

Entwined is currently my favorite in the Eternal Guardians series! This one was more of my type of book only because it wasn’t all about sex with these two. Their story had so many other elements that were focused on that it was easier to connect with these two and their story. I was worried that their HEA was never going to happen but after all the storms their sunny day arrived and I adored it.

HAPPY READING!

~REVIEW~ Flat-Out Celeste by Jessica Park

Synopsis

Whether you were charmed by Celeste in Flat-Out Love or are meeting her for the first time, this book is a joyous celebration of differences, about battling private wars that rage in our heads and in our hearts, and—very much so— this is a story about first love.

For high-school senior Celeste Watkins, every day is a brutal test of bravery. And Celeste is scared. Alienated because she’s too smart, her speech too affected, her social skills too far outside the norm, she seems to have no choice but to retreat into isolation.

But college could set her free, right? If she can make it through this grueling senior year, then maybe. If she can just find that one person to throw her a lifeline, then maybe, just maybe.

Justin Milano, a college sophomore with his own set of quirks, could be that person to pull her from a world of solitude. To rescue her—that is, if she’ll let him.

Together, they may work. Together, they may save each other. And together they may also save another couple—two people Celeste knows are absolutely, positively flat-out in love.

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~MY REVIEW~ 

**ARC provided by author for review**

The Plot

In Flat-out Love we were introduced to Celeste Watkins. If you haven't read FOL you should definitely do so in order to get the full story. 

Years after dealing with her psychological condition Celeste is now battling against those who judge her because of her intellect. Since starting high school she has had to deal with the bullying from her classmates and the fact that she is seen as a "nut job". Fed up and in an attempt to reinvent herself Celeste tries to fit in with different circles. But even that doesn't help. It is not until she is contacted by a Berkley University recruiter that Celeste learns how special she really is.  

Justin Milano turns out to be just what Celeste needs. Someone to open her eyes to the reality that she is special in a wonderful way and is worth loving.

The Characters

In the previous books, I adored Celeste. I learned so much of her through Julie and Matt that I couldn't wait to read more about her. However in FOC she seems to have taken two steps backwards. Not in a bad way necessarily. Just that all the confidence that Julie helped her gain diminished because of what she has been through in the time that she has been in high school. I was a little upset by it but was happy to see her interact with Justin and to grow comfortable with herself. She was so broken and to see her find her place in the world was wonderful. 

Justin was just ADORABLE!! I LOVE Matt but Justin is up there close to him. His abundance of energy and his energy was so cute and had me smiling throughout the whole book. Justin also grew up uncomfortable with who he is because of his peers but he learned to accept himself and was intent on making sure Celeste saw the same in herself. He was patient, kind, hilarious, and just plain Awesome. He gave Matt a run for his money. :) 

And lets not forget our FOL and FOM characters. I enjoyed checking up on Julie and Matt years after their relationship kicked off. Their journey isn't in the same place and it was a little sad to actually see where they were. Nevertheless, Matt and Julie always find a way to each other and this time it isn't any different.

The Romance

OMG! Jessica is PHENOMENAL at dishing out the romance. In her previous Flat-out books we experienced Julie and Matt fall in love through emails and gestures. Moments that held so much passion, hilarity, love, friendship, and saddening secrets. In this one we get the same formula with a different twist. All the sweet emails, text, and moments between these two were just heartwarming. I laughed and smiled so much throughout this story and that is what I love about Jessica's writing. No matter how serious the story she finds those special places to add beautiful and hilarious moments to the plot. Moments like her famous Christmas scenes. **Swoon** :)

The Wrap-Up 

I can't really tell you why this one is only 4 stars. Only that it was wonderful but its hard when I compare this to the first one.  Justin was wonderful and Celeste was pretty easy to relate to but their story didn't captivate me like Julie and Matt's. Nevertheless, you need to read this and catch up with the Watkins and watch Celeste find herself and find love.

HAPPY READING!  

Favorite Quotes

“You don't want to miss out on people. If you assume everyone is out to get you, then you're going to shut them down before they have a chance to prove you wrong.” 

“And you have me. Sometimes you need someone else to believe in you, to carry you, until you can do that yourself. Let me carry you. You’re almost there. Damn it, Celeste, you’re almost there. God, please, you have me, and I want you.” He stopped walking back and forth and put both of his hands over his heart. “I want you so much.” 

“To be yourself in a world that is constantly trying to make you something else is the greatest accomplishment.” 

“I won the battles, Justin. And I won the war. And now there is no more fighting. Now there is peace. You told me to let the joy win out, and I am choosing to do that.” 

“I am choosing a love that defies boundaries and a life that defies boundaries. That is the power of Celeste.”  

~REVIEW~ Mine to Spell by Janeal Falor

Synopsis

Cynthia has always hidden from her father’s hexes behind her older sister. When her family gains independence unheard of for women, she’s relieved that her days of harsh punishments are over. But as her seventeenth birthday approaches—the typical age to be sold to a new master—death threats endanger her sisters. She now faces two options: run or meet society’s expectations.For once, Cynthia isn’t going to let her older sister shield her from the problem. She’s going to prove to herself, her sisters, and society that her family isn’t a threat to their traditions. She willingly chooses to be purchased by a new master. A bold step that takes her somewhere she never thought she would go and to a man she might possibly fall in love with. With his help, she may just find a way to save her sisters while discovering how to stand up for herself. If she lives long enough.

ADD TO GOODREADS

~MY REVIEW~

**ARC provided by author in exchange for honest review**

The Plot

Even though in You are Mine Serena finally showed the Chardonian that women could be free. but things didn't change much. Now that Serena owns her family she mist still abide by Chardonian customs. That includes putting sixteen year old Cynthia into the marriage pool. If she does not the family would not be safe. So Cynthia does what is demanded of her. She enters the marriage pool but only to find out that her life would never be the same. Unlike her sister Cynthia has a secret that if found out could kill her. When she had no other choice but to reveal it she faces her biggest trial ever. Showing the women of Chardonia what her sister couldn't. That their magic is so much more.

The Characters

Unlike Serena. Cynthia was the complete opposite. She lived the same life as Serena but went against the grain in her own secretive way. She was impulsive at times but loved her family fiercely and wanted to break free of the constraints the women of Chardonia always lived in. Starting off as a weak character she slowly learns to finally find strength in herself to face the toughest battle ever.

Then there is Lukas. A  Chyron that is exactly like Zade but different as well. Where Zade kept to himself and said few words, Lukas was an open book. He was supportive of Cynthia even knowing the harm that could come to him. He is fiercely protective of her as well as the cause he is apart of. He was just as or more wonderful than Zade.

There are also the former characters from the kine series in the book tat are just as great and just as evil as always.it was wonderful to read more about Serena and Zade and their growing relationship. Their are also new characters that make the story so much more interesting.

The Romance

One thing that I always wish more of is the romance. I was not disappointed with having more of it in this book but still wishes for more. :) The relationship between Lukas and Cynthia was sweet and innocent but also intense and passionate.  The partnership that they both have makes their relationship so much more exciting and stronger.  

The Wrap Up

MINE TO SPELL was just as wonderful as You are Mine and Mine to Tarnish. I enjoyed Cynthia's story and cannot wait to see what happens next. With its cliffhanger you just know there is so much more coming. I cannot wait.

HAPPY READING!!

~REVIEW~ MARKED by Elisabeth Naughton

Synopsis

THERON - Dark haired, duty bound and deceptively deadly. He's the leader of the Argonauts, an elite group of guardians that defends the immortal realm from threats of the Underworld.

From the moment he walked into the club, Casey knew this guy was different. Men like that just didn't exist in real life--silky shoulder-length hair, chest impossibly broad, and a predatory manner that just screamed dark and dangerous. He was looking for something. Her.

She was the one. She had the mark. Casey had to die so his kind could live, and it was Theron's duty to bring her in. But even as a 200-year-old descendant of Hercules, he wasn't strong enough to resist the pull in her fathomless eyes, to tear himself away from the heat of her body.

As war with the Underworld nears, someone will have to make the ultimate sacrifice.

ADD TO GOODREADS

 

~MY REVIEW~

The Plot

Never feeling like she fits in, never relating with the people who she encounters, and suffering from a terrible sickness. Those are only half of the problems Casey encounters in her life. Her world changes when she bumps into Theron at her job. Theron is an Argonaut and has a job to do, which includes delivering Casey to the King of Argolea. But the King isn’t the only one that wants Casey and Theron soon learns that protecting her from the daemons after her is much more vital. They are after Casey in order to stop a prophecy from being fulfilled but what Theron and others learn quickly is that there are always secret hidden, even among your kind. What starts off as a mission to bring Casey back to Argolea so that she can fulfill the prophecy changes when he gets to know more about Casey and the world she belongs too.  

The Characters

Casey is a wonderful heroine. I felt bad for her at times because she was bombarded with the truth of who she was and had to accept it quickly. She lived a life where she didn’t feel part of the world and she was lonely throughout it. And throughout it all she doesn’t ever let it bring her down. She is sweet, generous and loving but also fierce and courageous. She also loves books which just makes her perfect. J When she learns that he is a Miso she takes it in stride and is selfless as she makes decisions about her life and others. I admired her throughout the book but was also frustrated because most of the book she was a lovesick puppy. It was always about how delicious, tall, handsome and strong Theron was every time they were together. Her sexual frustration just seeped through every other page.

So Theron, what can I say about him? He was everything an Alpha male would be: tall, handsome, possessive, angry at the world, always craving sex, and protective. He is the leader of the Argonauts and lives his life killing daemons and extracting revenge. In the beginning there is no humanity in him which makes him hard to connect with. As he spends time with Casey little by little you learn to connect with him a bit more. But again like Casey he was filled with lust every other page which has you questioning if that’s all he wants from her. Nevertheless he was a hero throughout the story and had his wonderful moments throughout. The moments where he was weak were the moments you got to see more of the man he is and the leader he is destined to be.

The Romance

The attraction to each other is quick between these two. Throughout the whole entire book they cannot ignore how much they want each other. But what starts off as just a desire quickly becomes much more between them. The moments that they can fight off the desire are few but give you a chance to see the other side of Theron and those are the moments I enjoyed the most. When he isn’t aroused and wanting to devour Casey you get to know much more about his tender side and see how he really does love and care for Casey  as well as his race.

The Wrap Up

This book had two of my favorite things, romance and mythology; I have to say that I was quickly enraptured. I can’t wait to read more of the other Argonauts, specifically Demetrious, Orpheus and Zander. I also can’t wait to read more about Nick and the rest of the Miso’s.  Now I must warn that there are various POVs in this book and some are short and I was worried about that but in the end it helped us understand the whole story. I've order the next two books in the series and cannot wait to start them! So yes, pick this up and read it!

Happy Reading!

Favorite Quotes:

“Those are my people. That girl is one of my race. So don’t you dare tell me this is none of my business.”
" Never question your ability or what destiny has called you to do. This is your Star Wars moment, my son. Stand up and do what you were meant to do.”

~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~ Choose Us by Caylie Marcoe

 

 Synopsis

Riley Logan and Travis Grayson have been best friends for the last fifteen years. She would do anything for him, go anywhere for him…and she has, countless times. Except now. Now he’s asking for too much. Their friendship has reached a breaking point and she doesn’t know how to go back. But as Travis’ personal assistant, Riley spends her every waking moment by his side.

When a fractured ankle puts Travis’ BMX career on hold he’s given more downtime than he knows what to do with. Always one for excitement, he agrees to become the bachelor on a televised dating show, but only if Riley goes in undercover to help weed through the girls.

What was supposed to be eight weeks of freedom has turned into eight weeks of hell surrounded by desperate girls all vying for Travis’ attention. He promised her the show would be smooth sailing. He promised he would listen to her advice on which girls should be eliminated. But now he’s breaking those promises and getting way too close to the girl Riley despises the most.

She shouldn’t care. Except she does. Much to her surprise there is one girl she wants Travis to choose…

Her.

Will she get what she wants, or will Riley lose her best friend along with getting her heart broken on national television?

ADD TO GOODREADS

~MY REVIEW~

“I wanted it to be a day you’d remember forever- the day we stepped into our future together.”

Riley and Travis have been best friends since they first met. Riley is used to what her job as a personal assistant entails. When Travis became a BMX star, Riley was right there through it all with him. There was no other place she would rather be than with Travis. She is an exceptional friend. So against her better judgment, she decides to help Travis when he begs for her help him weed out contestants on the show he is to be apart of.

Travis in whole is a character! He is a bit of playboy but he is sweet and caring. To him, Riley isn’t just an employee; she is also his best friend. He takes care of her the same way she does him. So when he is asked to join The Bachelor there is no way he would join without having her there with him. He looks forward to having her help him find the right girl for him and to fish out the fakers.

What starts off as a great plan quickly changes when things start to unravel in their relationship. Soon their banter and encounters on the show turn into so much more than they expected. And when they realize it, a bit too late, alot of drama ensues. Riley isn’t the only one vying for Travis’s attention and when things don’t turn out as she plans things get “ugly”.

Don’t miss out on Choose Us! It is a fun and light read that you don’t want to miss out on. Once I started the book I was quickly consumed with the storyline. I loved the characters and the way the story progressed. Best friend romances are the best! Pick this up!

Happy Reading!

~REVIEW~ Undeniable by Madeline Sheehan

 Synopsis

Warning: This is not a "typical love story". This is an all-consuming, soul-crushing, tear-your-heart-into-pieces story. It’s intense, gritty and raw, dark and disturbing, and it doesn’t happen overnight. This is an epic love story that knows no boundaries and has no time limits. It grows and develops—with hurt, sacrifice, and heartache—over the span of a lifetime.

Eva Fox is the princess of the Silver Demons Motorcycle Club. Growing up with bikers in the club lifestyle is all that she knows. When she’s a young girl, Eva meets the reason for her existence. Deuce West is the sexy, biker bad-ass of the Hell’s Horsemen Motorcycle Club. Like Eva, he was born and raised in the club—but that’s where the similarities end. Their first meeting is innocent, but as Eva matures into a woman, their chance reunions evolve into a fit of lust and love. Fate continues to bring them together time and time again, but their twisted journey is filled with pain, betrayal, and bloodshed that could tear them apart. Eva sees in Deuce what he cannot see in himself—a man worthy of love—and Eva spends her lifetime proving to him that her undeniable love is the one thing he can’t live without.

This is Eva and Deuce’s story.

It wasn’t easy.
Nothing worth doing ever is.
And love is worth everything.

ADD TO GOODREADS

~REVIEW~

 
Going into this book I knew it would be true to word. I was prepared for this to NOT be a typical love story. So when I started Undeniable I was all ready for the ride. And what a freaking ride it was! This was the first biker book I've ever read. I didn't think I would enjoy it. I didn't think I could suffer through all the crap I expected. And as it is sometimes, I was wrong.

I have to say that I did enjoy Eva and Deuce's story. I LOVED the biker aspect and even though they were repulsive at times I just couldn't get enough of the MC world. Eva and Deuce both live f--ed up lives which makes their relationship pretty much doomed. Deuce is alot older than Eva and has grown up differently. He is the leader of the Hell's Horseman MC and is used to the life. Eva is raised with her fathers MC, but is kept in the dark of the evils the club lives. But as these two collide there is no denying the fire brewing between them.

Don't get me wrong. I had a few quips with this one. For one I didn't connect with any of the characters. There was a time where I thought Eva was great but after a point I was just done with her. Not that I didn't want to see how this all played out, just didn't connect with her after that. Second, the age difference between the characters at first was something I couldn't even get into but surprisingly after a certain point you learn to just go with it. And finally my biggest quip was the relationship between Eva and Frankie. The whole thing had me fuming and thinking the same way Deuce did many times.

Overall, Undeniable was a good read. If you are opened to experiencing a different level of romance then I would say pick this up. But I definitely agree with other reviewers in saying that this book is NOT for everyone.

HAPPY READING!

FAVORITE QUOTES

“Can't fuckin' live without you. Want you on my bike and in my bed. Want my kids inside you. Want you by my side babe for as long as I got left”

“And babe, when I kissed you and you kissed me back, not knowing that the fuck you were doin’ but doin’ it anyway, not carin’, just feelin’, I fuckin’ lost myself in that kiss. Couldn’t remember ever losin’ myself in a kiss until then.
That fuckin’ kiss, Eva, has gotten me through some pretty bad nights. That fuckin’ kiss reminds me that life ain’t all bad.”

~REVIEW~ Girl on Tour by Caisey Quinn

Synopsis

An up and comer trying to make a name for herself...

Kylie never expected to be stuck on a tour bus with a pampered princess and her boyfriend's ex.

A troubled artist struggling to hold onto his career...

Trace thought he was finally getting to do things his way. Until the label added co-headliner Gretchen Gibson, the only person in country music with more issues than him, to his No Apologies tour.

Surrounded by tabloid rumors and people they can't trust, Kylie and Trace need each other more than ever. But the choices they make will change everything.

Because chasing your dreams and following your heart don't always lead you to the same place...

ADD TO GOODREADS

~MY REVIEW~

Caisey Quinn does is again! Girl on Tour is the continuation of Kylie's story.

The book starts off with Trace and Kylie together, the world is alright. But when Kylie is chosen to go on tour, without Trace, the two are separated for six weeks. However, between the separation and the struggle that Trace is going through to hold onto his career, things start to unravel. When the media gets involved the two stars find it hard to not let them destroy what they have.


Girl on Tour will test out Kylie and Trace's relationship in more ways then they can handle. Ms. Quinn did a wonderful job of portraying the significance the media has in a stars life which was wonderful to read about. Although these two are put through the ringer you get to experience the journey of Kylie's dreams coming true through her eyes.

And while Kylie is off trying to learn more about the world she is now apart of, Trace is struggling to stay above water. Trace...damn Trace just about frustrated me in this. The poor man spent this whole book trying to be a better man but with all the shit thrown his way he struggled. His struggle with his addiction is so real that it makes you sad every time he falters. This part of the story was not an easy one for these two. It was filled with so much sadness but in between that you felt the love between these two and the moments they did have together were just as intense and steamy as in GwG.

We are also introduced to new characters in GoT that will have you wanting to get more of their story. I adored Kylie's friends and her growing friendship with her busmates. Mia, Lily, Olivia, and Steven were all wonderful read about. I look forward to possibly hearing more about them in the future.

Then the ending left me wanting more! So much so that I was biting at the bits to get my hands on the final book!

Go pick this series up and enjoy!

FAVORITE QUOTES:

"She’d learned an important lesson though. If you give everything you have to other people and they don’t have anything to give you in return…you end up with nothing. Not a single thing"

 "I've never wanted anything like I want you. Not a drink, not a drug, not even music.Not a single damn thing, Kylie. Do you understand that?"

HAPPY READING!

~REVIEW~ Just for Now by Abbi Glines

Synopsis

An insatiable attraction heats to the boiling point in this steamy book set in the shore town of Sea Breeze from the author of the white-hot The Vincent Boys.

Preston is one bad boy. And Amanda has harbored a crush on him for forever. When she finally makes her move on him, it does not end well. But still, she can’t resist him. Especially now that he seems to be pursuing her, too.

No one wants wants them to be together. Not Amanda’s brother Marcus, who is on the verge of his marriage to Low, and definitely not any of Preston’s buddies. They know way too much about Preston’s dark side. Even Preston realizes he’s not good enough for someone like her.

But Amanda believes there is more to Preston than his bad boy persona, and she is determined to unearth what he’s hiding behind his seductive blue eyes—secrets that could explain his actions. Secrets Amanda might not be able to forgive.

Yet the dangerous attraction persists...and neither Preston nor Amanda is going to deny it.

ADD TO GOODREADS

~MY REVIEW~ 

As a fan of the Sea Breeze series I was looking forward to Preston's story. I'm glad that I wasn't disappointed!

Preston is a grade A gigolo. All he cares about is women and booze. He lives his life in secret and has no time to worry about what others think. What you quickly learn is that Preston isn't such a bad guy. Growing up with a terrible family life he had to grow up quickly in order to take care of his brothers and sister. For them he would do anything. Even sell his body to lonely housewives. They know the deal and as long as he can drink away all the memories he is okay. That is until he learns that his best friends sister has been one of those late night "memories" he forgot. 

Amanda loves Preston since the moment she laid eyes on him. To her it doesn't matter that he drinks and sleeps his way around town. She is so sure that he is so much more. So being in his arms for a night was okay with her. Even after he treats her like crap and leaves her in the dust. She just can't give up on him. Not even her brother can keep her away from him. 

When Preston realizes that Amanda has feelings for him he is resistant at first. To him she deserves so much better. But Preston can't fight the way she drives him crazy and the craving he has for her. So he caves. Amanda turns out to be his strength while dealing with his life's drama. She does not waver in her devotion to him and helps him through the hell he is living.

What Amanda doesn't know is that while she wins Preston's heart, she doesn't have all of him. Not yet. They must deal with a alot to get to where they end up and I must say it was a wonderful journey. One where we get to see the rest of the Sea Breeze gang again and celebrate Low's wedding!

I contemplated giving this one 4.5 stars but I want to tell you why that didn't happen. My issue with this one was that Amanda was the weakest Sea Breeze girl, to date. I'm not used to Abbi's heroine being that way so I was a little frustrated. She barely stood up for herself and she was blindly in love with Preston even after what he did to her. Don't get me wrong I loved Preston too but it wasn't until I realized why he acted the way he did. Loved them together eventually but Amanda started off weak. 

Overall, Just For Now is just as wonderful as the rest! We get the same Abbi Glines formula but Preston's story to me was the most realist. He definitely had it worse than the other Sea Breeze gang and pulled at your heartstrings.

Pick this up as well as the previous books!

FAVORITE QUOTES:

“Nothing about this thing we have is a bad thing. I’m not gonna lie about it: I don’t deserve you. I’m sure as hell not good enough for you, but as long as you want me, I’m all yours.” 

 “Preston pulled me up against his chest and cupped my face in his hands. “I love you. I love you so damn much it consumes me. I don’t deserve you, but I’m gonna become the man who does deserve you. I promise you. I’ll make you proud of me.”I reached up and ran my thumb over his lips. “I am and will always be proud of you. I want the world to know you’re mine.”

“Nothing about this thing we have is a bad thing. I’m not gonna lie about it: I don’t deserve you. I’m sure as hell not good enough for you, but as long as you want me, I’m all yours.” 

HAPPY READING! 

~REVIEW~ While It Lasts by Abbi Glines

Synopsis

Cage brings his playboy prowess to the countryside as the Sea Breeze hookups continue, from self-published phenomenon Abbi Glines.

Low broke Cage’s heart by getting with Marcus in Because of Low. Cage went into a tailspin that ended in a DUI. In order to salvage his baseball scholarship—the one thing he truly valued besides Low—Cage must take a summer job. At a farm. Away from Sea Breeze. With lots of cows, but no hot girls. Maybe that’s what Cage needs to get back on track.

But wait—there’s that hostile daughter of the farm boss. She’s pretty and occasionally sweet, and there seems to be a lot of sadness and mystery behind her anger. Cage is dying to strip her down—physically and mentally—in the back of the barn. But is he prepared for what will happen afterward?

ADD TO GOODREADS

~MY REVIEW~ 

“I'd worried that letting her get too close would break me. Unfortunately, I'd worried about that a little too late. Because I was broken. The Cage I was before Eva no longer existed. As much as I didn't want to admit it, I'd fallen in love with her. I'd allowed someone in and she hadn't want me. I hadn't been good enough. I never was.” 

Hands down Abbi Glines is the Queen of hot boy, feisty girls, sexy scenes and DRAMA!! While it Lasts upped the ante on all the above! 

 In the 4th book of the Sea Breeze series we are rewarded with getting Cage’s story. In Because of Low we meet him as Low’s best friend who was a grade A player. Cage did what he wanted when he wanted. He used women for pleasure and then discarded them. In While It Lasts we realize that, like all bad boys, under that playboy exterior there is a wonderful interior. 

After being sent to the country in order to save his baseball scholarship Cage has to come to terms with a town where he can’t party and drink and won’t have women thrown around for his pleasure. When his new boss’s daughter belittles him is shocked that his charm doesn’t work on her. Especially because to Cage she is the hottest girl he’s seen. Determined on not letting her upset him, Cage sets about to ignore her but realizes quickly that Eve is not easily ignored. The angry and feisty girl’s personality appeals to everything he is. What he quickly learns is that Eve has a reason to be angry. 

Eve is dealt a really sad life when he fiance, Josh, is taken from her. She is bitter and angry at life in general. So when Cage shows up at her father’s farm she is angry with his presence. A man that doesn’t care about anyone but himself is a pity. So she ignores him and just continues grieving. 

What both don’t expect is for their mutual dislike for each other to stir something more. A desire to help each other heal and be better versions on themselves. While Cage helps Eve move on he finds that she makes him want to be a better person. But Eve is worried about Cage's reputation and everyone that knows him doesn't make her feel any better about him. She can’t let go of her Josh, not when he was the perfect man. 

These two are wonderful people and I could not help but be giddy that they finally ended up together! I can’t wait to read more about them in Sometimes it Lasts, and see what happens with their future. We were also to check in with the former characters and loved seeing a glimpse into their life. 

Don’t miss Cage and Eve's story! Also pick up the previous ones!! 
 

HAPPY READING!! 

~REVIEW~ Left Drowning by Jessica Park

Synopsis

What does it take to rise from life’s depths, swim against the current, and breathe?

Weighted down by the loss of her parents, Blythe McGuire struggles to keep her head above water as she trudges through her last year at Matthews College. Then a chance meeting sends Blythe crashing into something she doesn’t expect—an undeniable attraction to a dark-haired senior named Chris Shepherd, whose past may be even more complicated than her own. As their relationship deepens, Chris pulls Blythe out of the stupor she’s been in since the night a fire took half her family. She begins to heal, and even, haltingly, to love this guy who helps her find new paths to pleasure and self-discovery. But as Blythe moves into calmer waters, she realizes Chris is the one still strangled by his family’s traumatic history. As dark currents threaten to pull him under, Blythe may be the only person who can keep him from drowning.

*This book is intended for mature audiences due to strong language and sexual content.

Note: due to mature content recommended for Ages 17+

ADD TO GOODREADS

~MY REVIEW~

Left Drowning is a story of love, sacrifice and fate. It is a story of finding yourself and the strength deep inside of you.

Blythe has lived the past four years in a state of "shock". Her life is empty and lonely. After losing her parents in a tragic way she spends her life blaming and punishing herself.  But one day, after an encounter with a crazy but sweet stranger, she decides that she should try and give life another chance. That chance leads her to Christopher Shepherd.

Chris has a past that haunts him and his siblings everyday of their lives. No matter how hard he tries his past catches up to him. But he will continue to live for the future. He refuses to open up that box that holds his past. He is content with staying to himself and taking care of his siblings. But when he meets Blythe all he wants to do is help her through her pain. Help her "breathe".

They quickly develop a friendship that eventually makes them all a family. Blythe learns to live and love life with the help of the Shepherd family and her new friends. Reconnecting with her brother and past friends, she is on the road to recovery. All of it thanks to Chris, who she falls in love with.

The problem is that although she conquered her pain Chris still drowns in his. And Blythe can't help him. This is where Blythe wins mad points with me. Realizing she is the only one willing to open up she steps back and lets him come to her.

When she finally realizes that fate does exist and she and Chris are connected more than they ever imagined she finds a way to make him see it.

While these two find their way to each other we are taken on a journey that will leave us breathless. Chris and Blythe are a pair that will frustrate you to the point where you want to reach in the book and shake some damn sense into them. But when they are together their dynamic will have you wishing for their HEA.

And I can't forget the Shepherd family because I freaking adored them! They are one of the best things about this book. Eric, Estelle and Sabin are AMAZING characters. Their pain and their personality will capture your heart and make you want to place them in a protective bubble.

I adored this book! I never doubted that it would be great. Do yourself a favor and pick this up!

FAVORITE QUOTES:

"If you believe in fate and some kind of meaning and sense in this fucked-up world, then believe with abandon, love. Enjoy it."

  "There is no set pattern to grief, despite what every stupid psych text has told me. There is no time frame that dictates when and how you’ll feel what you feel. You just get to deal with hell however, and whenever, it hits you."

“I am overwhelmingly in love with you,” Chris says as he matches my steps. “I’ve spent most of my life thinking that my father never gave me anything but pain. But that’s not true. He did give me something. Someone. You. He gave me you. Last summer, you asked me to believe in us. I don’t believe in much, as you know, but I do damn well believe in us. Forever.”

“How can I possibly say good-bye to the person I am so hopelessly, deeply, and permanently in love with? Because I love you, Chris. I do. I will always be in love with you, even though you’ll never love me back. You have been my sanctuary this year. You saved me. Do you know that? You saved me. And I wish that you would let me save you.” 

“You are the great love of my life that I’m never going to have.”

HAPPY READING!!

~REVIEW~ Once Upon a Prince by Rachel Hauck

Title: Once Upon a Prince (Royal Wedding Series)
Author: Rachel Hauck
Genre: Christian Romance
PURCHASE: Amazon ~ Barnes & Noble

Synopsis

Once Upon a Prince, the first novel in the Royal Wedding series by bestselling author Rachel Hauck, treats you to a modern-day fairy tale.

Susanna Truitt never dreamed of a great romance or being treated like a princess---just to marry the man she has loved for twelve years. But life isn’t going according to plan. When her high-school-sweetheart-turned-Marine-officer breaks up instead of proposing, Susanna scrambles to rebuild her life.

The last thing Prince Nathaniel expects to find on his American holiday to St. Simon’s Island is the queen of his heart. A prince has duties, and his family’s tense political situation has chosen his bride for him. When Prince Nathaniel comes to Susanna’s aid under the fabled Lover’s Oak, he is blindsided by love.

Their lives are worlds apart. He’s a royal prince. She’s a ordinary girl. But everything changes when Susanna receives an invitation to Nathaniel’s coronation.

It’s the ultimate choice. His kingdom or her heart? God’s will or their own?

~MY REVIEW~

“We make our plans, but God directs our steps.”

Once Upon a Prince was a charming Christian romance.

Susanna has always had her life planned out. After years of dating her military boyfriend she is prepared for the next stage in their relationship. But when he decides that they aren’t meant to be, Susanna is heartbroken. What she quickly realizes is that maybe he was right. He was the right man but not the right man for her.

In enters Nate to save her from a horrid beggar. What starts off as a friendship between the two slowly begins to turn into much more. Nate and Susanne have an innocent and beautiful love blooming between them that neither saw coming. But for Nate, loving Susanna is not something he can allow. The truth is that Nate is none other than Prince Nathanial of Brighton, and he is about to become King. In his kingdom it is forbidden for him to marry an American. On top of that he is expected to marry another woman. This leads to their struggle in discounting what is happening between them.

Realizing the severity of the situation, Susanne does what is expected of her. She releases Nate so that he may be the great King she knows he will be. Brighton is in need of a king like Nathaniel and Susanna refuses to be the reason he is overthrown.  Nate, however, is intent on finding a way to feel free to love Susanna and stay true to his country. Through a series of prayers and soul searching both finally are able to find their HEA.

I am a sucker for “fairytale romances” so when I read the synopsis to this book I just had to read it. And I wasn’t disappointed. It was such a sweet story with a swoon worthy male lead, great supporting characters, and a headstrong protagonist. My only complaint was that there wasn’t more time spent developing the relationship between Susanna and Nate. Nonetheless it doesn’t deter me from recommending this! 

If you are looking for a quick and sweet read pick this up!

HAPPY READING!