Confessions of a Bookaholic

Indie Reviews: 4 Star Books (Part 2)

noreply@blogger.com (Jessica) — Tue, 21 May 2013 14:00:00 +0000

Today is the second day of "Indie Reviews", a feature where I give short mini-reviews of all the Indie/New Adult titles I've read lately. I'll have 3 days of books that received a 4 star rating from me.

Because of Low by Abbi Glines
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This is book 2 in the series but I haven't read the first one. I really enjoyed this story. Low was a wonderful character and I really felt bad for her. I loved her best friend Cage (hot!) and Cage's roommate Marcus. It was nice that these books all contain the same group of characters. I didn't feel lost even though I hadn't read the first story. I hope to read more from this series soon.
There were times when I was frustrated by some lack of communication going on, but overall it was a really enjoyable read.

This series was picked up for publication, I believe, so it has a new cover now.

Charade by Nyrae Dawn

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This was an interesting story because the main character, Cheyenne, pays the guy, Colt, to be her boyfriend for a while. Cheyenne wants to get back at her ex and Colt just wants to be able to take care of the bills since his mother is sick. I enjoyed Colt the most in this story. No, he wasn't perfect, but he tried to do everything for his mother. He just didn't plan on falling for Cheyenne. Nothing really surprised me with this book but nevertheless, I enjoyed getting to know the characters and seeing where the journey took them.

Clash by Nicole Williams

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This is another title that has a new cover because it was picked up for publication. This is book 2 but I skipped book 1. I tried a sample of the first title but it just didn't grab me. I ended up trying this one out and loving it. Jude and Lucy were a great, typically, teen couple. A few parts were frustrating because of miscommunication between the two but I still enjoyed following their romance. They are dealing with a long-distance relationship now and there is a bit of adjustment going on. I do hope to read the third book in the series soon.

The Perfect Game by J. Sterling

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Loved, loved, loved the first part of this book. Cassie and Jack were amazing and had such a cute story. Both characters were likable and I enjoyed the sports angle the story had. This book really had a good college vibe. Then, near the end, Jack makes a hugely, stupid decision and it was just ...odd. I didn't believe he would do something like that without much thought. Some parts after that were kind of predictable but it just really took a wrong turn for me. Prepare to be angry at these characters if you read this. Overall, I'm glad I read it and truly enjoyed the first half of the book beyond belief! Book 2, The Game Changer, comes out soon and I do plan to read it.

Down to You by M. Leighton

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This is another title that has been picked up. Notice a trend here? Olivia was a nice character. She is far from perfect but I enjoyed her. Then we meet Cash and Nash. Cash is the bad boy, Nash is the good guy. She knows which one she should want to be with but that isn't the case. I will say that this book throws you quite a curveball. I didn't expect that twist. On the other hand, there were still a few things that just didn't make sense to me. Like, how do you end up in bed with a guy and you're not sure which twin it is? Hmm. Up to Me is the next book in this series. I'm honestly not sure if I will read it. I don't have a strong pull to do so (unlike some other series I read) so who knows. Either way, this one is a fun story with a crazy twist and I know a ton of people who really loved it.

V is for Virgin by Kelly Oram

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This is such a funny story. Val "V" is a virgin who has disaster strike as the entire school (and beyond) starts giving her a hard time for her choice to wait till marriage. Instead of hiding away, she starts a campaign to support her cause and she's pretty surprised by how many people end up helping her with it. Then, we throw in a rocker bad boy, Kyle, who is hellbent to destroy her plan and it all creates a wonderfully, fantastic read. The interactions between V and Kyle were amazing. I loved how spunky V was and how she never backed down from Kyle. It was a little rushed at the end, I wanted more! But regardless, I'd definitely recommend this one. Great story with terrific characters.

Bad Rep by A. Meredith Walters

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Another great New Adult read. It may be based on the traditional set up we've seen 100 times -- girl meets bad boy, falls for him, issues arise, blah blah.. but it was well written and enjoyable. This story does involve some *gasp* cheating...which is kind of a turn off for me but it didn't ruin Jordan's character. He was a bit more "nice" than I expected from the cover and summary though. I didn't really get the bad boy vibe as much as we see in other stories. Maysie was what I'd view as the traditional college co-ed, trying to survive school, make money, and have some fun. This may not be one that sticks out to me as a favorite but I'm still glad I took the time to read it.

Rock the Heart by Michelle A. Valentine

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Who doesn't love rockers?? This is one of my all-time favorite rocker books. Lane broke up with Noel 4 years ago and, through her job, they end up reuniting. Eventually, she has to go on the road with him and she learns that even though Noel has changed, he still wants only her. I loved this couple. The whole "rock star" vibe is very much in this story as well. I am a sucker for books where we get to go on tour with the characters. HOT. There were times where I was frustrated with the characters but all-in-all, I'd definitely continue with this series and see what happens to Noel's bandmates.

Foolish Games by Leah Spiegel

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This was a cute story about some friends following around a bad (yes, more band guys) but it takes a huge twist. Joie is pulled into a plot to help the bands reputation and it ends up risking her life. Hawkins, the love interest, was wonderful. Joie and Hawkins have a lot of chemistry together but they also were never afraid to speak their minds. This book also involves a stalker and I loved the whole mystery of it. I thought it was very well-written even though there were times where I just wanted them to tell the freakin' cops! I do plan to read the next books in this series and I love that they are based on the same characters. I really want to see where they end up.

ALL OF THESE BOOKS RECEIVED A RATING OF

Tour: Excerpt & Giveaway - RESTORE ME by J.L. Mac

noreply@blogger.com (Jessica) — Tue, 21 May 2013 12:00:00 +0000

EXCERPT

I step into his personal space and lift my hands to his shoulder blades. I press my palms to his muscular back. His head falls forward and his chest fully inflates as he draws in a deep breath. It’s the reassuring sign that I need from him. My tongue darts from my mouth and makes a pass over my lips. I lean forward and drop one chaste kiss in the middle of his back.

“Baby, please,” I croon. “Talk to me!”

He whirls around to face me, taking me by surprise. “What do you want from me?!”

“I-I just want you to talk to me. I want to make sure we’re on the same page as far as we are concerned,” I sputter out, looking to him for the words I need to hear.

“Josephine, we aren’t on the same page. Actually, I don’t even think we’re in the same book.” The way he says it is exhaustive, like I’m irritating him or something. It cuts me like a white-hot knife. “I’m not myself; I’m out of control and I don’t know how to come back.” He runs those big hands through his disheveled hair and the expression on his handsome face is one of hopelessness. I know the look well.

I step closer to him and reach for his hand. “Before you walked into my life, I felt the floor crumbling beneath my feet. Then you showed up and I had something to hold onto. Let me do the same for you. At least let me try. Please.”

Restore Me by J.L. Mac
Published: April 29th, 2013
Reading Level: New Adult/Adult
eBook edition: 137 pages
Series: Wrecked, #2

Navigating the world alone is all Josephine Geroux has ever known. Life altering tragedy struck early on for her. She endured an admirable struggle through her youth and learned the hard way how to adapt and survive. She managed to arrive at adulthood in one piece in spite of it all.

After such chaos, maintaining a life free of complications is a priority for her.
Everything changed when a man with amber eyes came through her door and claimed her heart. She fell hard in more ways than one. The pull between Jo and Damon seemed like fate bringing things full circle.

With another devastating loss looming, Jo fights to hold on to the very thing that brought her to her knees. She finds herself torn between a promising future and clinging to a devastating past.
But that’s not the most worrisome problem on her hands.

She must convince more than just herself to let the past stay in the past, where it belongs, but on her journey to find closure and resolution, she does the exact opposite. An old wound caused by a heinous act becomes exposed for what it is. The truth is catastrophic and Jo is helpless, watching as the ruins of her fragile world endure more turmoil.

Can something conceived from tragedy and malice end well? Can something so completely poisoned conquer adversity? Jo is left to make a decision; accept the circumstances she finds herself in or fight with unwavering ferocity to restore what has been damaged.
*Restore Me is the second book in the Wrecked series*

Bio:
USA Today Best Selling Author,J.L. Mac is twenty-six years old and currently resides in El Paso, Texas, where she enjoys living near her family. She was born and raised in Galveston, Texas, until

she married her husband in July of 2005. She has two young children and is married to a soldier in the United States Army. J.L. and her family have lived all over the United States and have enjoyed each new experience in each new place. J.L. admittedly has had a long and sordid love affair with the written word and has loved every minute of it. She drinks too many glasses of wine on occasion,and says way too many swear words to be considered “lady-like.” J.L. spends her free time reading, writing, and playing with her children.

Website http://jlmacbooks.blogspot.com/
twitter username https://twitter.com/JaimiLMcCormick
Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/jlmacbooks

Goodreads Page http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/6654493.J_L_Mac
Goodreads book link http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/17405850-restore-me

Giveaway

AUTHOR is giving away:

10 ebooks of Restore Me

3 signed paperbacks of Restore Me

3 ereader/tablet sleeves

3 $5 Amazon Gift Cards

1 Kindle Paperwhite

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Buy Links:
Amazon - http://tinyurl.com/c2klffa
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Kobo - http://tinyurl.com/cqol3ub

Indie Reviews: 5 Star Favorites (Part 1)

noreply@blogger.com (Jessica) — Mon, 20 May 2013 14:00:00 +0000

In the past year or so I've read many, many.....many Indie books. Mostly these have been New Adult titles. I might have an addiction :) I'm very much behind on these reviews but I still wanted to mention them in a special feature.

For the next week, I'm going to post mini-reviews for these titles. I plan to have about 5-8 books per post. Today I wanted to talk about the ones that have received 5 stars from me. I noticed, while going through my Indie reads, that most of my favorite books are not ones talked about the most. I hope that by featuring them here, they are able to get noticed more often.

Dante's Girl by Courtney Cole
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This was such a cute story! The characters are wonderful and there's no doubt Dante is swoon-worthy. We get to explore another country and follow the main character as she tries to navigate in an environment she is very unfamiliar with. Dante's world is so different from her own but their connection and romance is adorable.

Highly recommended if you want something cute, funny, and perfect for summer.

Unlikely Allies by Tiffany King

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This book was nothing like I expected. Kimberly finds out that her father is alive and she spends the summer with him and some kids at a summer camp for foster kids. I assumed this book was about her just falling for a guy but it was so much more than that. There is a whole, big, huge catastrophe in there that they are faced with. Kim and Mason don't start out on good terms but by the end, they are forced to get along for survival.

This book is much more intense than it may seem. It was the first story I read from Tiffany and it is still my favorite of hers.

Crush by Lacey Weatherford

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I can't help it, I'm a sucker for bad boys and good girls. And Hunter Wilder? Oh yeah, totally loved him! There is a big, huge mystery in this book and Hunter is at the center of it. We get both POVs in this story and I can't tell you how happy I was to find out there would be a second book! I believe Smitten, book 2, is coming out very soon and I will be buying it asap.

If you love a good romance with a bad boy, grab up this one. You won't be disappointed in the plot twist!

With the Band by Jean Haus

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I purchased this one randomly because I was in the mood for more band boy books. I honestly never expected to love it as much as I did. Riley is the main character and she loves music. She decides to join a band but one of the band members does not like this idea. Romeo is a jerk to Riley at first but she honestly can't figure out why. Eventually their sparks turn more passionate. I adored this entire book and especially the other side characters. They all had a little dysfunctional family but I felt the story was told in a way that was very realistic for college life. I have this one on my "re-read" list!

If you love stories with hot musical males, get this! I know the cover may be a bit lacking but it really packs a punch.

The Truths About Dating and Mating by Jaycee Delorenzo

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Don't you love discovering a book randomly and finding out it rocks? This was another of those cases for me. I hadn't heard anything about this story but the blurb really grabbed me. Often, we read books where main characters have just met. But in this case, the characters had a long-standing friendship. Ivy and Ian are the perfect match. Ian is a bit of a bad boy (yes, like I said, I love them!), but he has a soft spot for Ivy. They even do a love radio show together which is hilarious! Their friendship soon turns into more and neither of them know how to handle it.

If you enjoy friends-to-lovers type of books, this one is for you. Plus, it's freakin' hilarious!

Falling for the Ghost of You by Nicole Christie

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This is one of those cases where you can't judge a book by its cover. This story starts with a bang and doesn't let up. I know we've heard this type of story a lot; girl meets stepbrother, he's hot, blah blah. But this one was actually so well-written and developed. Violet was funny, smart, and quirky. I enjoyed getting to know her. Zane is a bit older and so darn lovable!! Seriously, I want one of him, stat! When they end up living together, wowzers! Actually, reading the summary again just makes me want to re-read this asap.

Funny, well-developed, and sizzling, this is perfect if you want a great love story with a twist.

Tear by Rachel Van Dyken
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Another little-known fact - I love love triangles. But, only if they are good ones where I really feel the girl could be torn between the two guys. This one is exactly that! Two, famous, hot guys start going to Natalee's school so what girl can resist that? Alec and Demetri are both wonderful in their own ways. Demetri is much more open and flirty. Alec is quieter and more laid back. But the brothers share a secret and they are afraid for Natalee to find out. I really enjoyed this story and couldn't stop reading. It was really enjoyable and there is a second book so I'm excited to see what happens next.

Great for fans of love triangles and rocker guys.

Up in Flames by Nicole Williams

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Who doesn't love firefighters? This book opened up an entire new world to me. I had never heard of smokejumpers before this book. Now, I love them! Elle is from a very small town and this book carries out that vibe very well. Cole, and the other smokejumpers, come around to help with wildfires and the girls flock. While Elle is used to being settled down, Cole dreams of traveling and having fun. I really loved these characters and we are able to learn a lot about each one. The plot was a bit predictable but I really focused on the connection between the characters. The town reminded me of where I grew up and the book was well-written and paced. Very enjoyable!

If you want guys in uniform (YEAH!) and a sweet romance with some hot action, this is for you.

The Voice by Jennifer Anne Davis
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The author contacted me for this one and although I wasn't crazy about the cover at first, the summary sparked my interests. Audrey is abducted and held captive in the woods. While there, she begins to hear voices. Once she gets home she ends up moving away with an aunt in order to get away from the stress from her family and friends watching over her. That's where she meets the twins Caleb and Justin. Caleb is super friendly and caring. He wants to be friends with Audrey immediately. Justin, on the other hand, is very closed-off and seems to want nothing to do with Audrey. But they are all more connected than it seems. This book has a huge twist and I am really keeping my fingers crossed that this will end up being a series. I need more of these characters!

If you want something pretty intense, with some nice twists in the plot, get this book. It's truly amazing! Was really shocked at how well this was written and developed, and by how much it intrigued me from the start.

ALL OF THESE BOOKS ARE

Review: Ten by Gretchen McNeil

noreply@blogger.com (Jessica) — Sun, 19 May 2013 14:00:00 +0000

Ten by Gretchen McNeil
Publisher: Balzer + Bray (September 18th, 2012)
Reading Level: Young Adult
Hardback: 294 pages
Rating: 5 of 5 stars
Summary:

SHHHH!
Don't spread the word!
Three-day weekend. House party.
White Rock House on Henry Island.
You do NOT want to miss it.

It was supposed to be the weekend of their lives—an exclusive house party on Henry Island. Best friends Meg and Minnie each have their reasons for being there (which involve T.J., the school’s most eligible bachelor) and look forward to three glorious days of boys, booze and fun-filled luxury.

But what they expect is definitely not what they get, and what starts out as fun turns dark and twisted after the discovery of a DVD with a sinister message: Vengeance is mine.

Suddenly people are dying, and with a storm raging, the teens are cut off from the outside world. No electricity, no phones, no internet, and a ferry that isn’t scheduled to return for two days. As the deaths become more violent and the teens turn on each other, can Meg find the killer before more people die? Or is the killer closer to her than she could ever imagine?

Review:

WOW! I still shiver thinking about this story. It's not something you want to read when you are alone at night. No way! This is, by far, one of the spookiest books I've ever read. This story starts out like the perfect high school story (or movie); teenagers spending a weekend away on an island with no parents. Perfect, right? NO!

Meg and Minnie are excited to join this little party and, especially, to get to see the school hottie T.J. When they get there the teens do get to have a bit of fun but then things start getting a bit crazy. They find a DVD and the ten of them can't help but watch as ominous messages appear on the screen talking about pay-back.

At first they try to brush it off but then the teens start getting killed one by one. The mystery behind this book is so intense! I had no clue who the killer would be or how they would be connected to the story of the house. I kept second-guessing my choices and considering if it could be Minnie, T.J., or even Meg herself.

The visuals in this story are amazing. It's dark, stormy, intense! You can't help but be sucked into it and feel like you are actually there trying to run for help but finding that escape is impossible. Beyond that, we do have the connection between Meg and T.J. It was a bit if light in this dark tale. I enjoyed getting to know them and discovering their backstory as well. I thought they were adorable with their little flirtations. Then the killer has to go and ruin it all! :)

If you love horror stories, or a book where you can really picture each scene, you need to read this one. I'd love if this was a movie. I'd have to watch it in the daytime with 100 people, but still, I'd love it.

I can't wait to read more from Gretchen!

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Review: Defiance by C.J. Redwine

noreply@blogger.com (Jessica) — Sat, 18 May 2013 14:00:00 +0000

Defiance by C.J. Redwine
Published: Balzer + Bray (August 28th, 2012)
Reading Level: Young Adult
Hardback: 403 pages
Series: Defiance, #1
Rating: 4 of 5 stars
Summary:

Defiance by C. J. Redwine is rich postapocalyptic YA fantasy perfect for fans of Graceling and Tamora Pierce.

While the other girls in the walled city-state of Baalboden learn to sew and dance, Rachel Adams learns to track and hunt. While they bend like reeds to the will of their male Protectors, she uses hers for sparring practice.

When Rachel's father fails to return from a courier mission and is declared dead, the city's brutal Commander assigns Rachel a new Protector: her father's apprentice, Logan--the boy she declared her love to and who turned her down two years before. Left with nothing but fierce belief in her father's survival, Rachel decides to escape and find him herself.

As Rachel and Logan battle their way through the Wasteland, stalked by a monster that can't be killed and an army of assassins out for blood, they discover romance, heartbreak, and a truth that will incite a war decades in the making.

Review:

Defiance was truly a whirlwind! I've never read a book with these type of creatures, or dragons, so this was something beyond my normal reading. It did take me a while to really get into this story, possibly for that reason. But, by mid-way, it was impossible to put the book down.

Rachel Adams is not like the other girls of Baalboden. She isn't interested in pleasing people or learning how to cook or clean. She is much more interested in learning how to fight and take care of herself. The only person Rachel has is her father and they have a strong bond. But then one day he doesn't return from his courier job and Rachel knows something has gone wrong. Since she is still young, she must have a protector. Her father had written that her protector would be Logan, his apprentice. He knew that Logan would be the best person to care for Rachel.

Unfortunately, Rachel and Logan don't have the best of relationships. Rachel had told Logan that she had feelings for him a few years earlier and he shot her down. The last thing Rachel needs, or wants, is to have to live with Logan.

Logan and Rachel are similar in a lot of ways; both strong, passionate, and loyal. This is good but it also leads to quite a few disagreements between the characters. For a while I wondered if they'd even be able to develop a friendship, much less a romance.

In this world, there is a Commander who rules all and has tremendous power. The people of the city depend on him for safety but he is manipulating them all. Beyond the walls no one is safe. The creatures come out randomly, at times, and people know they won't survive. But regardless of that, Rachel is willing to risk her life on several occasions in order to find the truth about her father.

Defiance contains such a complex world and there are still many, many more questions to be answered. I can't wait to delve into Deception and see where this world takes us.

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Trailer for HOUSE OF SECRETS by Chris Columbus and Ned Vizzini

noreply@blogger.com (Jessica) — Fri, 17 May 2013 18:00:00 +0000

Ned Vizzini has teamed up with Chris Columbus and Illustrator Greg Call on the new book House of Secrets. Today I'm sharing the fabulous trailer with you featuring Chris and Ned talking about the story!

House of Secrets by Chris Columbus and Ned Vizzini
Published: Balzer + Bray (April 23rd, 2013)
Reading Level: Middle Grade
Hardcover: 496 pages
Series: House of Secrets, #1
Summary:

The Walker kids had it all: loving parents, a big house in San Francisco, all the latest video games . . . but everything changed when their father lost his job as a result of an inexplicable transgression. Now the family is moving into Kristoff House, a mysterious place built nearly a century earlier by Denver Kristoff, a troubled writer with a penchant for the occult.

Suddenly the siblings find themselves launched on an epic journey into a mash-up world born of Kristoff’s dangerous imagination, to retrieve a dark book of untold power, uncover the Walker family’s secret history and save their parents . . . and maybe even the world.

LIKE THE HOUSE OF SECRETS FACEBOOK PAGE

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Review: Spell Bound by Rachel Hawkins

noreply@blogger.com (Jessica) — Fri, 17 May 2013 14:00:00 +0000

Spell Bound by Rachel Hawkins
Publisher: Hyperion (March 13th, 2012)
Reading Level: Young Adult
Hardcover: 336 pages
Series: Hex Hall, #3
Rating: 4 of 5 stars

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

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

Review:

*sigh* I was so sad to see this series end. I am a sucker for books that have a strong plot, but are also funny. It never failed that Sophie would always say or do something to make me laugh. This book starts after a crazy cliffhanger so I was interested to see where the story took Sophie.

Sophie meets some new people, the Brannicks, and realizes she shares more of a connection with them than she could have imagined. I thought it was awesome that this family was made up of amazingly strong women who could really kick major butt!

It's hard to review this book without it spoiling the previous titles but I'll try. I really liked the continuation of Sophie and Jenna's friendship. They really had a strong connection. Then, of course, we have Archer and Cal. I gotta admit, I love Cal! I had a soft spot for him early on and that just continued the more I read. He was quiet but his strength and compassion for Sophie was so wonderful to see.

There is a lot going on in this book! Sometimes I felt maybe it was a bit too much. Like a lot was being thrown in because this was the last book. But regardless of that fact, I enjoyed seeing everything come full circle and getting some questions answered.

If you haven't started this series yet, do it! There are so many funny moments but it's well tied into an amazing plot. I am excited to read the next series by Rachel Hawkins!

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Review: Pushing the Limits by Katie McGarry

noreply@blogger.com (Jessica) — Thu, 16 May 2013 17:00:00 +0000

Pushing the Limits by Katie McGarry
Publisher: Harlequin Teen (July 31st, 2012)
Reading Level: Young Adult
Hardcover: 384 pages
Source: Author (Thank You!)
Rating: 5 of 5 stars

SO WRONG FOR EACH OTHER...AND YET SO RIGHT.

No one knows what happened the night Echo Emerson went from popular girl with jock boyfriend to gossiped-about outsider with “freaky” scars on her arms. Even Echo can’t remember the whole truth of that horrible night. All she knows is that she wants everything to go back to normal.

But when Noah Hutchins, the smoking hot, girl-using loner in the black leather jacket, explodes into her life with his tough attitude and surprising understanding, Echo’s world shifts in ways she could never have imagined. They should have nothing in common. And with the secrets they both keep, being together is pretty much impossible.

Yet the crazy attraction between them refuses to go away. And Echo has to ask herself just how far they can push the limits and what she’ll risk for the one guy who might teach her how to love again.

Review:

I'm behind on my reviews (by a lot!) but I just had to share my thoughts on this book. Pushing the Limits was such a fantastic, emotional rollercoaster. Katie did a brilliant job developing the characters and explaining what they had been through.

First, Echo's life changes drastically and she can't remember what happened to cause it. She knows that something terrible happened to her but the memories of that night have vanished. Through therapy she is trying to piece together that night. At school, people whisper about her and her popularity changed overnight. I felt horrible for Echo. I truly felt her pain and anguish about her situation. I can't imagine having a memory completely gone like that.

Noah, unlike Echo, has always been a bit of trouble maker. It's as if he has a shield that he uses to keep him from getting hurt. When Noah meets Echo the sparks fly, but I'm not talking about romance. They share quite a few unpleasant words and it's fun to see their relationship change.

We get to hear from the POVs of Noah and Echo, which is needed for this story. This allows us to really get to know the characters and see their past. I honestly had no clue what had happened to Echo and that mystery kept me on the edge of my seat. Through Echo's relationships with Noah, it's as if she can finally start to figure out the tragedy she went through. The flashbacks are more frequent.

I fell in love with Noah in this book. Truly, head over heals, in love! He may have been a bad boy but it was obvious how strongly he felt for Echo. Their romance was beyond a teenage love. I really felt they shared a stronger bond.

I was so excited to find out this was a series. I know the next book focuses on Noah's friend Beth, but I'm still looking forward to reading about her and hopefully getting an update on Noah and Echo!

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Tell us about TRUTH OR DARE and enter to win the book!

noreply@blogger.com (Jessica) — Thu, 16 May 2013 13:00:00 +0000

Can you describe the most memorable game of Truth or Dare you've ever played? Tell us and you could win a copy of TRUTH OR DARE by Jacqueline Green!

Truth or Dare by Jacqueline Green
Published: Little, Brown Books for Young Readers (May 14th, 2013)
Reading Level: Young Adult
Hardcover: 416 pages
Series: Truth or Dare, #1
Summary:

When a simple round of truth or dare spins out of control, three girls find it’s no longer a party game. It’s do or die.

It all started on a whim: the game was a way for Tenley Reed to reclaim her popularity, a chance for perfect Caitlin “Angel” Thomas to prove she’s more than her Harvard application. Loner Sydney Morgan wasn’t even there; she was hiding behind her camera like usual. But when all three start receiving mysterious dares long after the party has ended, they’re forced to play along—or risk exposing their darkest secrets.

How far will Tenley, Caitlin and Sydney go to keep the truth from surfacing? And who’s behind this twisted game?

Set against the backdrop of Echo Bay, an isolated beach town haunted by misfortune, Truth or Dare is a highly charged debut that will keep readers in suspense from beginning to end.

Prize:

1 winner will receive a copy of TRUTH OR DARE by Jacqueline Green.

Rules:

You must be at least 13 to enter.
Name and email must be provided and counts as 1 entry.
Extra entries are possible and links must be provided.
Contest is US Only and ends June 1st.
Once contacted, the winner will have 48 hours to respond.
The form must be filled out to enter.

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May News from HarperTeen!

noreply@blogger.com (Jessica) — Wed, 15 May 2013 19:42:00 +0000

MAY BOOKS BE FREE

HOUSE OF SECRETS by Chris Columbus & Ned Vizzini

This month, we are reading HOUSE OF SECRETS, the new bestseller from Chris Columbus and Ned Vizzini! Wait, Chris Columbus? Chris Columbus of Home Alone, The Goonies, and Harry Potter movie fame? YES, that Chris Columbus! Wait, Ned Vizzini? Ned Vizzini the author of IT'S KIND OF A FUNNY STORY and THE OTHER NORMALS? YES, that Ned Vizzini! Chris and Ned have teamed up to create HOUSE OF SECRETS, an amazing middle grade fantasy.

Add it to Goodreads

MAY YOU BE IMPULSIVE

HARPERTEEN IMPULSE

Get your hands on

ALLIES: AN INSIGNIA NOVELLA by S.J. Kincaid,

THE WITCH COLLECTOR PART II by Loretta Nyhan,

THE GET OVER by Walter Dean Myers,

and PLAYING KEIRA (the companion to YOU LOOK DIFFERENT IN REAL LIFE) by Jennifer Castle!

MAY YOU COUNTDOWN

ELEGY

Elegygreat free widgetsWidgetboxMore info

MAY YOU BE AT BEA!

We'll be at Booth #2039!

Tour: Guest Post & Giveaway - STEALING HARPER by Molly McAdams

noreply@blogger.com (Jessica) — Wed, 15 May 2013 18:36:00 +0000

Molly McAdams is here today to tell us how she managed to tackle Stealing Molly from Chase's POV. Taking Chances is such an emotional story and I cried many....many, many tears! I can't wait to jump into Stealing Molly.

How difficult was it to write this book from Chase's POV? Considering that, as a reader, I cried when I read the summary, I would love to know how you tackled this story and how you were able to really get into Chase's mind, knowing the outcome?

It was incredibly difficult for me to write Chase's POV. I thought I cried throughout Taking Chances,

Stealing Harper wrecked me. I don't think there was one day that I didn't cry while writing it. Not because the entire thing was depressing, but because I was finally understanding Chase, and, actually, Brandon too.

There was so much about both guys, but especially Chase, that I just hadn't known about while writing Taking Chances, and it was so hard to find all these new things out and fall in love with them all over again when I knew what was coming. But not once while writing, and not once while reading the completed novella, did I ever think it wasn't worth it.

Chase's story is something that needs to be told/heard. And I honestly think that is what got me through writing it, is that I knew it was all worth it, and to be honest, I was still enjoying falling in love with Chase all over again.

We fell in love with him for certain traits and reasons in Taking Chances, and we'll fall in love even harder for completely different reasons in Stealing Harper. Long answer super short. Difficult, but SO. FREAKING. WORTH IT!

EXCERPT

Seriously, who the hell did she think she was? I leaned close and whispered harshly in her ear, “Would you like to change that? I'm not up to my limit tonight yet.”

The princess leaned away and her eyes went wide, “Oh I'm sorry, but I don't have any STDs, I'm not your type.”

Bree started choking, and I knew I should make sure she was okay, but my jaw had dropped and I couldn’t stop staring at this frustrating girl, “Chase, you better stay away from my roommate. I told the guys she's off limits.”

I cringed at Bree’s words. Not a mistake. This really was her roommate.

“You know him?” The princess asked, hardly trying to contain her revulsion.

“Well I'd like to think so, he is my brother.”

The most beautiful blush I’ve ever seen instantly spread across her cheeks, and for a second I forgot why I didn’t want to be completely taken with this girl.

“Wait, Harper is this the guy you said was a jerk?”

Harper. That’s right, her name was Harper. I don’t know why I didn’t like it earlier, I couldn’t think of anything more perfect for her now. It fit her and I wanted to say it myself, but then I remembered why she was pissing me off and decided to stick with what seemed to piss her off more. Her eyes flew to the ground, and my lips quirked up into a smile.

Stealing Harper by Molly McAdams
Publisher: William Morrow (May 21st, 2013)
Reading Level: New Adult
ebook edition: 100 pages
Series: Taking Chances, #2
Summary:

Chase Grayson has never been interested in having a relationship that lasts longer than it takes for him and his date to get dressed again. But then he stumbles into a gray-eyed girl whose innocence pours off her, and everything changes. From the minute Harper opens her mouth to let him know just how much he disgusts her, he's hooked.

But a princess deserves a Prince Charming who can make her dreams come true. Not a guy who can turn her life into a nightmare.

All good intentions go out the window when Harper starts to fall for the guy Chase has come to view as a brother. He wanted to protect her by keeping her away, but he can’t stand to see her with anyone else, and he’ll do anything to make her his. But when it comes down to Harper choosing between the two, will Chase have the strength to step back from the girl who has become his whole world if it means she’ll be happy?

Lines will be crossed. Friendships will be put to the test. And hearts will be shattered.

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Safe Haven "Girls-Night-In" Party!

noreply@blogger.com (Jessica) — Tue, 14 May 2013 20:03:00 +0000

Has anyone watched Safe Haven yet? I am hoping to watch it very soon and this looks like such a fun way to get together and have a viewing party! Think Jam and Fox have put together a cool Girls Night-In party guide (click to maximize).

Synopsis
Josh Duhamel and Julianne Hough star in this spellbinding romantic drama based on the novel by best-selling author Nicholas Sparks (The Notebook). When a mysterious, beautiful woman named Katie (Hough), moves to Southport, North Carolina, she sparks the interest of the locals, especially Alex (Duhamel), a handsome widower. Although she is attracted to Alex, Katie is reluctant to trust him – that is, until a new friend (Cobie Smulders) convinces her to give Alex a chance. But before long, a dark secret from Katie’s past threatens her happiness in this thrilling romance directed by Lasse Hallström (Dear John).

Purchase Safe Haven from Amazon

It released May 7th.

Tour: Guest Post - NO ATTACHMENTS by Tiffany King

noreply@blogger.com (Jessica) — Sun, 12 May 2013 04:34:00 +0000

Top Ten Book Characters

By Tiffany King

1. Harry Potter (Harry Potter): Of course Harry Potter would top my list. He not only grew up before my eyes, but he also managed to save the Wizarding World. Think about it. He was born a celebrity and thrust into the spotlight as a child, so he could have turned out like Lindsay Lohan. Instead, he embodies all the attributes of a true hero: bravery, kindness, humility and perseverance.

2. Edward Cullen (Twilight Series): Sure, Bella could be annoying and whiny at times,      but, through it all Edward was still amazing. He is everything a girl wants in the perfect guy: Handsome, strong, caring and loyal. Okay, not much of a sense of humor, but he wins extra points for literally having a rock hard body. Wink-Wink. Edward made girls believe in love and happily ever after.

3. Katniss Everdeen (Hunger Games): Truthfully, I only really liked Katniss in the first two books since she pretty much lost it mentally in the last book. Granted, she experienced a great deal of loss in book three, but in the first book she was tough as nails and stood up for what she believed in. That is the Katniss I want to remember.

4. Professor Albus Percival Wulfric Brian Dumbledore (Harry Potter): Dumbledore and Harry had the perfect mentor/protégé relationship. He was wise enough to let Harry grow to be his own man, all while harboring the true secret of Harry's life. Even though he was a powerful wizard, Dumbledore still admired the human qualities that Harry possessed that Dumbledore himself had neglected throughout his own adolescent years. Plus, he also had the best lines ever."After all, to the well organized mind, death is but the next great adventure."

5. Billy Coleman (Where the Red Fern Grows): He may be only ten years old, but Billy Coleman completely stole my heart when I was younger. He had a dream and he
worked harder than any other kid I had ever read about to reach that dream. Total
tearjerker, but still an amazing story.

6. Augustus Waters (The Fault in Our Stars): All I have to say about him is that he gave Amsterdam to Hazel Grace Lancaster which makes him the best book boyfriend ever. You'd have to read the story to see what I mean.

7. T.J Callahan (On the Island): He became a man right before our eyes and made us
swoon as he worked to show Anna Emerson that he was no longer a boy.

8. Claire Morgan (Seduction and Snacks): Sure, she had a complete gutter-mind, and
was completely inappropriate most of the time, but OMG, she was freaking hilarious. I can honestly say I have never laughed as hard as I did while reading Seduction and Snacks.

9. Josh Bennett (Sea of Tranquility): He was a loner and pretty much a quiet person, but oh how you come to love him as his story tugs at your heart. He was the kind of guy that will steal your heart without you even realizing it.

10. Jacob Black (Breaking Dawn): Jacob is a surprise entry since he drove me
absolutely batty in the first three books. Bella was Edward's love, plain and
simple. Breaking Dawn is by far my least favorite book in the series, but Jacob
completely redeemed himself in it. It was nice to finally get insight into his head and
to see the things he struggled with the most.

No Attachments by Tiffany King
Published: April 30th, 2013
Reading Level: New Adult
Length: 302 pages
Summary:

Ashton Garrison walked away from a privileged life in order to hide from the one thing she's not willing to face. She knows she left behind a trail of pain, but in the long run, her betrayal will hurt less than the truth. She now has one goal: Live life to the fullest with no regrets and no attachments. She has high hopes that a move to new surroundings will provide the escape she desires, but what Ashton doesn't count on is how fate always seems to find a way to screw up any good plan. Sometimes, when love comes knocking, the pull is too strong not to answer. Suddenly, what she thought she wanted to escape from is what Ashton now wants more than anything.

Nathan Lockton has one mission: find his target and complete the task he was hired to do—no attachments and no emotion necessary. He's done it over and over again. What he thought was a typical lost-and-found job has turned into a life examining moment as Nathan is forced to deal with something he has always ignored--his feelings. Now faced with a decision, Nathan must choose to either follow his heart or complete the job.

Love can come when you least expect it. The question is: If the odds are stacked against you, how far are you willing to go for the one you love?

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Links:

Twitter- @AuthorTiffany

Facebook- Tiffany King

Pintrest- Tiffany King

Blog- authortiffanyjking.blogspot.com

Goodreads- Tiffany King

Amazon | Barnes & Noble

Tour: Guest Post & Giveaway - WRECKED by Alyssa Rose Ivy

noreply@blogger.com (Jessica) — Wed, 08 May 2013 18:00:00 +0000

Top Ten Books that Inspire Me

1) The Hobbit by J.R.R. Tolkien
This book made me fall in love with the idea of storytelling. The first time I read it, I discovered that many of the bedtime stories my father told me were actually inspired by the world that J.R.R. Tolkien created. I thought it was so cool, and I decided I wanted to write stories that could inspire people the same way. It was also where my love of fantasy started, a love that inspired me to write and publish my first book, Beckoning Light.

2) Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen
I'm a huge Jane Austen fan, and I've read Pride and Prejudice countless times. It inspired my love of romance and flawed characters. If I could travel back in time, I'd love to meet Jane Austen.

3) Portal by Imogen Rose
This YA Time Travel Romance inspired me to self- publish. I loved the story and knew it was something that probably wouldn’t have been traditionally published originally because it was so unique, and it didn’t fit within the traditional categories. I was so impressed, that it gave me that final push to take the indie plunge.

4) Flat-out love by Jessica Park
This is my favorite NA book. It inspired me to try writing in the NA category, and it reminded me of how great books with a twist are. I'd been reading almost exclusively paranormal and fantasy, and Flat-Out Love rekindled my love of contemporary.

5) Moby Dick by Herman Melville
This is my favorite book. Melville captures obsession like no one else. You feel the emotion even though it's a book that takes place almost entirely on a whaling ship. Moby Dick inspires me to challenge myself to play with genres and to experiment with my writing.

6) Murder on the Orient Express by Agatha Christie
I love Agatha Christie, and this is my favorite mystery of hers. She instilled in me a love of mystery and intrigue. I especially love how timeless it is, it’s still so great after all these years.

7) Harry Potter by J. K. Rowling
I read the first five books on my honeymoon. Reading the series was the first time I discovered Internet fandom. I used to read Muggle net with my friends when we were supposed to be listening to law school lectures. It’s such a fantastic world that never leaves you.

8) Twilight by Stephenie Meyer.
Twilight reintroduced me to YA, and paranormal. I Loved Bella and the voice. It made me feel confident about writing first person even if it isn't what you were "supposed to do."

9) Fablehaven by Brandon Mull
Mull is the king of writing a series where all of the books tie together perfectly. Hints he drops in book one, tie together in the final book. I strive to do the same in my series, and I aim to make every detail count. Chances are if it’s in my book, it's there for a reason even if it takes a few books to see it. The same goes with my characters.

10) Let Me Call You Sweetheart by Mary Higgins Clark
I picked up one of her books at the library in sixth grade, and read every book of hers within a few months. This was the one that stuck with me longest. Mary Higgins Clark was one of my early transitions into adult fiction, and I still have so many fond memories of curling up with one her books.

Wrecked by Alyssa Rose Ivy
Published: April 30th, 2013
Reading Level: New Adult
ebook edition: 285 pages
Series: Clayton Falls, #3
Summary:

When your past catches up, it's time to stop running.

Jake Mathews messed up yet again— but this time his misstep lands him in the hospital. He wakes up to find the girl of his dreams and the memory of having his deepest secret revealed.

Emily Taylor needs a break. She's been working double shifts as a nurse just to pay the bills while trying to heal a broken heart. The last thing she needs is to fall for a patient.

Strapped with community service and the knowledge that he's disappointed everyone in his life, Jake is determined not to let Emily slip through his fingers. Emily wants Jake, but can she really open herself up to heartache again?

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Author Bio:

Alyssa Rose Ivy is a Young Adult and New Adult author who loves to weave stories with romance

and a southern setting. Although raised in the New York area, she fell in love with the South after moving to New Orleans for college. After years as a perpetual student, she turned back to her creative side and decided to write. She lives in North Carolina with her husband and two young children, and she can usually be found with a cup of coffee in her hand.

Links:

Website: http://www.alyssaroseivy.com/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AlyssaRoseIvy
Twitter: https://twitter.com/AlyssaRoseIvy
WRECKED Goodreads: http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/16208128-wrecked
Author Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/5047249.Alyssa_Rose_Ivy

Tour: Guest Post - GAME. SET. MATCH. by Jennifer Iacopelli

noreply@blogger.com (Jessica) — Thu, 02 May 2013 05:48:00 +0000

Team Penny, Indy or Jasmine Quiz

All three girls you’ll meet in my debut New Adult novel, GAME. SET. MATCH. have one goal: to be the best tennis player in the world. They’re all dedicated athletes, but aside from that they’re more different than you can imagine. Anyone who’s read GAME. SET. MATCH. (my agent, my publisher, early beta-readers and my editor) quickly attached themselves to one of the girls.

So take the quiz before you read and know whether you’re Team Penny, Team Indy or Team Jasmine!

1. Would you ever have a one night stand?

A. You probably wouldn’t think I would, but yes

B. I don’t know, it depends

C. No, I’m waiting for the right guy to notice me

2. Which quality do you wish you possessed?

A. Epic Focus

B. Extreme Talent

C. Emotionally steady

3. Pick a guy...

A. Talented and driven with an accent to die for

B. Brilliant, dependable with an unshakable moral code

C. Young, brash and looking to have a great time

4. What drives you?

A. I want to be the best.

B. I want to belong.

C. I want to prove everyone wrong.

5. Pick a color...

A. Gold

B. Orange

C. Pink

If you chose mostly A’s, you’re Team Penny!

If you chose mostly B’s, you’re Team Indy!
WOO, GO TEAM INDY!

If you chose mostly C’s, you’re Team Jasmine!

Game. Set. Match. by Jennifer Iacopelli

Published: Coliloquy (May 1st, 2013)

ebook edition

Reading Level: Young Adult

Series: Outerbanks Tennis Academy, #1

Summary:

Nestled along the North Carolina coast, the Outer Banks Tennis Academy is the world's most elite training facility. In this pressure-cooker environment, futures are forged in blood and sweat, and dreams are shattered in an instant.

Penny Harrison, a rising female star, is determined to win the French Open and beat her archrival, Zina Lutrova. But when her coach imports British bad boy Alex Russell as her new training partner, will Penny be able to keep her laser-like focus?

Tennis is all Jasmine Randazzo has ever known. The daughter of two Grand Slam champions, she's hell-bent on extending her family’s legacy and writing her own happily-ever-after...until her chosen Prince Charming gives her the just-friends speech right before the biggest junior tournament of the year, the Outer Banks Classic.

With a powerful serve and killer forehand, newcomer Indiana Gaffney is turning heads. She’s thrilled by all of the attention, especially from Jack Harrison, Penny’s agent and hot older brother, except he keeps backing off every time things start heating up.

With so much at stake, dreams—and hearts—are bound to break. Welcome to OBX: Where LOVE is a four-letter word, on and off the court.

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Help a great cause and win a TON of ARCs! - Bears for Boston fundraiser

noreply@blogger.com (Jessica) — Mon, 29 Apr 2013 20:57:00 +0000

Who wants these ARCs??

Yes, that's right. They are ALL going to 3 winners! Most of the ARCs are for books that will be coming out within the next few months. So, how can you win them? It's super easy and it helps a great cause!

I cleaned out my bookshelf for a good reason. I put together a fundraiser called "Bears for Boston". You can see the button below. This fundraiser will raise money to purchase teddy bears for some of the Boston Bombing victims. In addition, any extra funds will go to The One Fund Boston, Inc. This is a charity organized by the Massachusetts Governor Deval Patrick and Boston Mayor Tom Menino.

Each bear will have a card sent with it and that card will have your name (and/or personal message) to the victims. No donation is too small. We really appreciate anything people can give and I will be documenting the amount raised and the process of sending everything out. I will post about it here and on the fundraiser's Facebook page here - https://www.facebook.com/MadisonsBearsforBoston.

I understand that not everyone can donate. If you can't there are still ways you can enter to win the ARCs above. I really need help spreading the word about this fundraiser. If you tweet, facebook, or write a blog post about this cause, you get points into the contest. It's super easy and takes very little time.

In addition, you can grab this button to add to your blog sidebar or avatars.

One of the best things about the blogging community is that everyone comes together in times when help is needed. I really appreciate you all and hope you have the time to help me spread the word about this fundraiser. Our goal right now is to raise $1000 by the 4th of July!

To donate, you can just click on the donate button on the sidebar ----->

That goes through paypal. You can send a check/money order as well. Email bearsforboston@hotmail.com if you need the mailing address.

When you send a donation you can email a personal message for the cards to that same address!

Just fill out the rafflecopter below and let me know what you did for entries. The ARCs will be split into 3 equal piles and sent to the winners. Also, MORE books will be added to this pile before the contest is over.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Close up pictures of the books (click to maximize).

Tour: Review - INFINITY by Sedona Venez

noreply@blogger.com (Jessica) — Mon, 29 Apr 2013 18:21:00 +0000

Infinity by Sedona Venez
Published: January 15th, 2013
Reading Level: New Adult
eBook: 218 pages
Source: Author
Series: Valkyries: Soaring Raven #1
Rating: 3 of 5 stars
Summary:

Infinity discovers a dark secret from her past that rocks everything she knows to be true.

A troubled 22-year-old superstar singer, Infinity has a bad reputation for drugs and hard partying. Now, she is on the road to a comeback with her controversial tour. But everything about doing the concert feels wrong from missing employees, to anonymous threats about ruining her career. She is dealing with a powerful corporation that is determined to kill her and everyone she loves. She is also battling for control of her life and career from a relationship that crossed the fine line between love and obsession. Infinity knows too much, even though she doesn't realize it. Secrets have been kept and these secrets are powerful enough to destroy her and everyone she loves.

Now she must put her safety and trust in the hands of sexy, tattooed and delicious Torch Channing and Boulder Vigari, hired to keep her from getting killed. Boulder wants to make her his. He won't stop until he claims her. Torch struggles with his primal need to possess her and his hatred of everything she represents.

Infinity is determined to protect her heart while dealing with the pressure of pulling off another successful tour without spiraling into another mental meltdown.

Review:

Infinity held such a great premise and I'm excited to see what comes next in this series. Infinity is a 22 year old singer who is known for her reputation. She's definitely a different type of character. It's not really easy to love her completely. She knew her popularity and that confidence level was a bit much at times. But overall, her intense personality did keep me interested in the story.

Her relationship with her mother was another interesting area. They didn't have a typical mother-daughter relationship. But they do seem to have a great bond. The world we get to know in this book is very complex. There are several paranormal creatures -- Valkyries, vampires, werewolves, other shifters and more!

Infinity's friends, Zoe and Diego, were fabulous! They had some fantastic interactions and I felt it allowed us to really see more of Infinity's personality. I was first interested in this story because of the paranormal elements. It's rare to see a New Adult story with a paranormal twist. I really enjoyed learning about the world, but at times I was a bit confused. Sometimes it was hard to keep up with the plot and I had to go back and slowly read through it again. It's important to do that with this story because there are times when a lot is told to us quickly.

Overall this was a solid story. There are parts that could have been taken out, or altered a bit to make it better. Some things were a bit repetitive but I will still read book 2!

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Tour: Review - BROKEN AT LOVE by Lyla Payne

noreply@blogger.com (Jessica) — Thu, 25 Apr 2013 17:33:00 +0000

Broken at Love by Lyla Payne
Published: Createspace (March 12th, 2013)
Reading Level: New Adult
Paperback: 338 pages
Series: Whitman University, #1
Rating: 4 of 5 stars
Summary:

When a knee injury ends twenty-year-old Quinn Rowland’s pro tennis career, he’s not only dumped by his hot Russian girlfriend but ordered to attend college by his disinterested billionaire father. A rich kid who’s not used to being disappointed by life, Quinn and his sociopathic half-brother Sebastian create a frat house game intended to treat girls how they see them—as simple game pieces to be manipulated for their pleasure.

College sophomore Emilie Swanson knows Quinn’s reputation—after all, he did send one of her sorority sisters into therapy earlier in the semester—but the game and his charm bring them closer together and soon she starts to believe there’s more to Quinn than people think.

But what if the more is something darker than a game of toying with emotions and breaking hearts?

Quinn and Emilie might be falling for each other, but there are secrets he’s not ready to tell—and lifestyle changes he’s reluctant to make. She willingly stepped on the court, but if Emilie finds out she started out as nothing as a pawn in Quinn and Sebastian’s twisted game, she might never forgive him.

To his surprise, Quinn finds that he might finally care about someone more than he cares about himself…even if that means letting Emilie walk away for good.

Review:

I really enjoyed this book. At first I worried that I wouldn't be able to see any redeeming qualities in Quinn. He is a tough guy to like. Him and his friends treat girls horribly and have even made a game out of getting them in his bed. It's gross. But sadly, I'm sure a lot of college guys do similar things.

Emilie was a challenge for Quinn from the beginning. Not only does Emilie manage to turn Quinn down, but she gives him a big surprise right from the start. It's obvious to Quinn that she isn't like all the others. She's also passionate about art and wants to prove to her parents that she's good enough to have that as a career. Both Quinn and Emilie have issues with their parents and it's a big force that tries to drag them down. It's also something they can relate to each other on.

I enjoyed the way we are able to get to know the characters in this book, and although it's harsh the way Emilie is treated in some areas, she was strong and able to fight back against Quinn's attitude.

She was the perfect match for him and it really challenged his way of thinking. We get to read from both points-of-view in this book, which was much needed. Honestly, I felt that Quinn's POV was the most interesting because he had the most growth from start to finish. He seemed to be in a bubble at the start of this book. He had no positive thoughts about anything and didn't care how he treated people. By the end of the story we can see how many changes he has made.

Broken at Love is a fantastic story with 2 characters who deal with the troubles of live in different ways. Through their connection they are able to help each other and finally find someone who accepts them.

Website | Twitter | Goodreads | Facebook

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Tour: Guest Post & Giveaway - VAIN by Fisher Amelie

noreply@blogger.com (Jessica) — Wed, 24 Apr 2013 06:45:00 +0000

Today I am participating in the blog tour for VAIN by Fisher Amelie. She is stopping by to share with us the top 10 songs that inspire her. Check out the great giveaway below as well.

Top 10 Songs that Inspire You

First off, thank you so much for having me, Total Bookaholic!!! I’m honored!

My taste in music is fairly eclectic and constantly changing but right now these ten songs are writing my next book.

Change of Time by Josh Ritter
This song makes me a little sad but in a good way. For some reason it reminds me of every wrong that’s ever been wronged in this world. It makes me want to move, to fix them, to stand up and shout for those who can’t.

Breath of Life by Florence + The Machine
This song has written at least three heart pounding scenes that I know of.

Blackout by Muse
This song belongs to my husband and I. It’s ours, very, very ours.

All the Rowboats by Regina Spektor
Haunting and beautiful and so Regina Spektor.

High by Feeder
This reminds me of when I lived in England. Some of the best years of my life.

Somewhere Out There by Our Lady Peace
High school dances, friends, singing at the top of our lungs, falling over each other in laughter. It was such a magical time for me, full of silliness and seriousness. There wasn’t a day that would go by that I didn’t experience both.

Mustard Gas by The Dear Hunter
This song will always scream to me in ways no other song ever could because it reminds me of the first book I ever wrote. Full of angst and demands, it’s written many passionate scenes.

Sunburn by Muse
Every time I listen to this song, for some reason I imagine an incredibly distraught woman dancing on pointe’s.

Tuna in the Brine by Silverchair
Oh my word do I love Silverchair. I am so in love with their music it’s not even funny. Their Diorama album has some incredible compositions scored by Van Dyke Parks. I’ve just never heard an album more beautiful than that one and Tuna in the Brine is my favorite.

Inception Theme by Hans Zimmer
When I need a dramatic scene, this is the song I listen to.

VAIN PLAYLIST HERE.

(VAIN Trailer link: http://youtu.be/t5D9naNNSkI) VAIN Trailer

Find Fisher on her blog here!

Find Fisher on Amazon!

Find Fisher on Barnes & Noble!

Find Fisher on Facebook!

Find Fisher on Twitter!

Find Fisher on Goodreads!

Find Fisher on YouTube!

Add to Goodreads

VAIN 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.

GIVEAWAY

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Tour: Review & Giveaway - THE SPACE BETWEEN by Kristie Cook

noreply@blogger.com (Jessica) — Mon, 22 Apr 2013 21:36:00 +0000

The Space Between by Kristie Cook
Published: April 5th, 2013
Reading Level: New Adult
eBook edition
Series: The Book of Phoenix, book #1
Rating: 5 of 5 stars
Summary:

When Life Falls to Pieces, Answers Lie in the Space Between

After a month-long dance tour through Italy, 20-year-old Leni Drago returns to Georgia to care for her great-uncle, only to find him gone, the home they shared empty and any evidence he ever existed wiped out. All that’s left is a journal she can’t open.

Jeric Winters has been searching for a piece of his past for over a year, only to reach a dead-end in Georgia. When an urgent and magnetic pull draws him out of his hotel room, he comes face-to-face with the beautiful dancer who’s been haunting his dreams day and night.

Jeric’s one to stay away from—a bad-boy, hit-it-and-quit-it type—but Leni can’t escape the fervent feelings between them. As their own existences begin to crumble around them and shadowy forms that are more monsters than men attack, they realize there’s more to the connection between them than physical fascination.

To solve the riddle their lives have become, they must embark on a journey that requires them to face their pasts and release their true souls. And they must do it fast—dark ones from another world are closing in, intent on killing them. Permanently.

Review:

When I think of this book I immediately remember how unique and captivating it was. This isn't just one story, it's technically two. I won't go into details on that but I will say that Kristie managed to seamlessly tell both stories and intertwine them in a way that could be easily understood and followed.

Leni and Jeric were outstanding! I truly believed their chemistry and the pull they felt towards one another. There was no doubt that they were connected. But these characters were far from perfect. They both had their flaws which made their personalities much more believable. The circumstances surrounding their meeting was so complex but it truly kept me intrigued and wanting more.

I've honestly never read a story even close to this one, plot-wise. I had no idea where the story was going or what the characters would find out. They are able to delve into the past and see how it would alter their present, and future. Although a lot of this story does help us grasp that idea, there is no lack of action and adventure for the characters. I was scared for them on multiple occasions! Darn you Kristie for making my heart race like that :)

The entire idea behind this was so intense and ...romantic. Another perk is that we get the chance to hear from several POVs. That was critical to this story because it allowed me to truly understand the past of each character.

If you are looking for a story with a unique plot and fantastic characters, pick this one up. I am thrilled Kristie ventured into the NA area and I cannot wait to read the next book in this series!

Prize:

1 winner will receive a $5 Gift Card to Amazon or B&N.

Rules:

You must be at least 13 to enter.
Name and email must be provided and counts as 1 entry.
Extra entries are possible and links must be provided.
Contest is International and ends May 6th.
Once contacted, the winner will have 48 hours to respond.
The form must be filled out to enter.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Kristie will be hosting a major giveaway on her site at the end of the tour for a $200 gift card or a swag bag full of goodies!

To enter, readers can head over to http://www.kristiecook.com/2013/04/the-space-between-release-tour.html and enter via Rafflecopter.

Rafflecopter form can be found HERE.

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ARC Giveaway: DARE YOU TO by Katie McGarry

noreply@blogger.com (Jessica) — Wed, 17 Apr 2013 06:12:00 +0000

Dare You To by Katie McGarry
Published: Harlequin Teen (May 28th, 2013)
Reading Level: Young Adult
Hardback: 462 pages
Series: Pushing the Limits, #2

Ryan lowers his lips to my ear. "Dance with me, Beth."

"No." I whisper the reply. I hate him and I hate myself for wanting him to touch me again....

"I dare you..."

If anyone knew the truth about Beth Risk's home life, they'd send her mother to jail and seventeen-year-old Beth who knows where. So she protects her mom at all costs. Until the day her uncle swoops in and forces Beth to choose between her mom's freedom and her own happiness. That's how Beth finds herself living with an aunt who doesn't want her and going to a school that doesn't understand her. At all. Except for the one guy who shouldn't get her, but does....

Ryan Stone is the town golden boy, a popular baseball star jock-with secrets he can't tell anyone. Not even the friends he shares everything with, including the constant dares to do crazy things. The craziest? Asking out the Skater girl who couldn't be less interested in him.

But what begins as a dare becomes an intense attraction neither Ryan nor Beth expected. Suddenly, the boy with the flawless image risks his dreams-and his life-for the girl he loves, and the girl who won't let anyone get too close is daring herself to want it all....

Prize:

1 winner will receive a signed ARC of DARE YOU TO by Katie McGarry.

Rules:

You must be at least 13 to enter.
Name and email must be provided and counts as 1 entry.
Extra entries are possible and links must be provided.
Contest is US Only and ends May 1st.
Once contacted, the winner will have 48 hours to respond.
The form must be filled out to enter.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

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Tour Excerpt: BULLET by Jade C. Jamison

noreply@blogger.com (Jessica) — Fri, 05 Apr 2013 16:50:00 +0000

Today I am participating in the blog tour for Bullet by Jade C. Jamison. Check out the exclusive excerpt below!

Bullet by Jade C. Jamison
Release date: February 18th, 2013
Reading Level: New Adult
eBook: 451 pages

An Epic Rock Star Novel

What if you discover the man you want is toxic?

She tasted a little bit of heaven with him, and now they’ve gone through hell and back, but can their relationship take anymore?

Valerie Quinn is a naïve college freshman when she meets on-the-rise rock star Ethan Richards. He’s an idealistic, handsome, reckless young man, but he’s captured her heart. She doesn’t give up on him and eventually his walls crumble down. By the time Valerie has given herself to him completely, she discovers he’s damaged and may be beyond help. Can she save Ethan and their relationship before he implodes, or will he self-destruct and take her with him?

Excerpt from Bullet

Jade C. Jamison

I let out the breath I’d been holding in as Ethan rolled onto the bed.

I just lay there, concentrating on my breathing, focusing on relaxing. He removed his condom and then rolled on his side to face me, so I rolled on my side as well. That felt like fresh hell, but I tried not to let it show on my face.

And the look on his face was rare and…beautiful. He looked happy, and that wasn’t a typical look for Ethan. He looked peaceful. He stroked my hair with his hand. “You okay?”

I nodded. The way he was looking at me made everything okay. I smiled at him, letting him know I was fine. “Yeah. Had to be done, right?”

He grinned. “No, not really. You could’ve decided to become a nun. They don’t have to do this, you know.”

I smiled again, sliding my arm under the pillow. “I think in the long run that’d be more painful.”

“How?”

I shrugged my shoulders. I didn’t want to tell him what I was thinking. But I knew now. I’d been experiencing some kind of awakening, and for all I knew, all girls went through it, but maybe I was a late bloomer. Whatever the case, there was a sexual creature inside me that had been trapped, and once she’d discovered there was an escape, she would have pushed to get out. I knew sex wouldn’t ever hurt like tonight again. I knew there was some sort of sensual nirvana waiting for me, some revelation I had yet to discover. Inside, I realized that. And to deny that to myself my entire life would have hurt far worse than the temporary pain I’d endured to pass into womanhood. And I wasn’t kidding myself either. I knew I’d be hurting all night long, but it would soon pass. I looked in Ethan’s green eyes, softer than I’d ever seen them before, and maybe that was due to the shitty lighting in the motel room, but he seemed open and vulnerable then. Part of me wanted to tell him all my thoughts, but I too felt too exposed. And after all we’d been through, another part of me felt like I couldn’t fully trust him. Oh, I wanted to. After all, I’d trusted him with one of the most sacred parts of myself that night. But I wasn’t ready to tell him of my growing self-awareness, of my awakening identity. I didn’t know that I wanted to tell anyone, because I didn’t fully understand it yet. My smile was shy. “I dunno. Could you imagine spending your whole life not having sex?”

He stroked my hair again. “Yeah, but my first time was nothing like that.” He got closer and kissed me on the forehead.

“I’m okay.”

He rested his hand on my neck. There was something in his eyes, but I just couldn’t read it. What the hell was he thinking? “I love you, Val.”

Oh. Oh, wow. Yeah, I loved him back, but for him to say it…and to say it first. Holy crap. Everything I’d ever heard about dysfunctional relationships (which I’d suspected we had) had made me believe I’d be the only one to ever say it, to ever really feel it. But there it was. He’d said it, and it took my breath away. I don’t know that I was able to smile because I was so overwhelmed. But I said it back. “I love you too, Ethan.” And then, seeing how his eyes lit up, I did smile.

He pulled me closer then, holding me in his arms, and after a while, I heard his breathing grow quiet but rhythmic. His chest rose and fell slowly at the same intervals, and I knew he’d gone to sleep. I shifted, but just a little, because every motion below my waist reminded me of the pain that was still with me. I wished he was still awake, because I wanted him, needed him. I wanted to talk to him, but then I realized I also just needed time for me.

I was overwhelmed with so many emotions, the first of which was my feelings of love for this man that had intensified. Before, yes, I had felt love for Ethan, but nothing like this. It was multiplied now and heavy, stretching into the deep caverns of my soul. I wasn’t sure how to process it.

And then I was also almost giddy that I had just made a passage. I was no longer a girl. Truly, I’d been moving to womanhood already. I’d been responsible for my own care for more than a year, what with living on my own at school, but somehow losing my virginity not only symbolized that process but affirmed it.

Lying there thinking about that, I then thought about my dad of all people. I was no longer daddy’s little girl. I was no longer his precious pearl, and he could no longer protect me from the world, from the beauty and wonder nor from the pain and torment. I wondered what he and my mom would think if they knew. I knew from the experiences over the past summer that they trusted me. Whether that was due to realizing that they had to let go and let me make my own mistakes or if they just thought I was a young woman of incredible self-restraint, I didn’t know.

There was no clock in that hotel room, so I had no idea how long I lay there. Ethan rolled over after a long while, leaving me alone with my thoughts. Between them and the pain, I lay awake until what I was sure was early morning…all by myself.

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Exclusive from TAKEN by Erin Bowman - Chapter 8!

noreply@blogger.com (Jessica) — Mon, 01 Apr 2013 19:24:00 +0000

Today I have something super exciting for you! The wonderful Erin Bowman is releasing the first 8 chapters from her upcoming book, Taken! You can check out all the chapters (bloggers listed below) and I am showing you the last chapter...chapter 8!! You gotta check it out.

Taken by Erin Bowman
Publisher: HarperTeen
Release Date: April 16, 2013
Hardcover: 352 pages
Add to Goodreads

There are no men in Claysoot. There are boys—but every one of them vanishes at midnight on his eighteenth birthday. The ground shakes, the wind howls, a blinding light descends…and he’s gone.

They call it the Heist.

Gray Weathersby’s eighteenth birthday is mere months away, and he’s prepared to meet his fate–until he finds a strange note from his mother and starts to question everything he’s been raised to accept: the Council leaders and their obvious secrets. The Heist itself. And what lies beyond the Wall that surrounds Claysoot–a structure that no one can cross and survive.

Climbing the Wall is suicide, but what comes after the Heist could be worse. Should he sit back and wait to be taken–or risk everything on the hope of the other side?

CLICK HERE TO READ TAKEN - CHAPTER 8

Want to read the previous chapters?

Monday, 3/25 – Chapter 1

Wendy Darling @ The Midnight Garden

Tuesday, 3/26 – Chapter 2

Lena Ainsworth @ Addicted 2 Novels

Wednesday, 3/27 – Chapter 3

Erica Haglund @ The Bookcellar

Thursday, 3/28 – Chapter 4

Shane Morgan @ Itching for Books

Friday, 3/29 – Chapter 5

Stephanie Ward @ A Dream Within A Dream

Saturday, 3/30 – Chapter 6

Krystal Larson @ Live to Read

Sunday, 3/31 – Chapter 7

Alicia Guerrero @ Shooting Stars Mag

Monday, 4/1 – Chapter 8

Jessica Estep @ Confessions of a Bookaholic

Giveaway: The Infernal Devices Complete Trilogy by Cassandra Clare

noreply@blogger.com (Jessica) — Thu, 21 Mar 2013 19:45:00 +0000

About Clockwork PrincessDanger intensifies for the Shadowhunters as the New York Times bestselling Infernal Devices trilogy comes to a close.

If the only way to save the world was to destroy what you loved most, would you do it?

The clock is ticking. Everyone must choose.

Passion. Power. Secrets. Enchantment.

Danger closes in around the Shadowhunters in the final installment of the bestselling Infernal Devices trilogy.

Published by Margaret K. McElderry Books (March 19th, 2013)

Add to Goodreads

About The Infernal Devices SeriesSet in the Victorian London underworld, in the prequel series to The Mortal Instruments, Shadowhunters are barely winning against the forces of evil.

Prize:

1 winner will receive The Infernal Devices Complete Trilogy

Rules:

You must be at least 13 to enter.
Name and email must be provided and counts as 1 entry.
Extra entries are possible and links must be provided.
Contest is US Only and ends April 4th.
Once contacted, the winner will have 48 hours to respond.
The form must be filled out to enter.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

About the Author

Cassandra Clare is the author of the New York Times, USA TODAY, Wall Street Journal, and Publishers Weekly bestselling Mortal Instruments series and Infernal Devices trilogy. Her books have sold more than 12 million copies worldwide and have been translated into more than thirty-five languages.

Visit The Infernal Devices Official Site
Like The Infernal Devices on Facebook

Visit Cassandra Clare’s Official Site

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Tour Review: Shattered Promises by Jessica Sorensen

noreply@blogger.com (Jessica) — Thu, 14 Mar 2013 17:13:00 +0000

Today I am posting my review of Shattered Promises for the blog tour! I absolutely adored this book and can't wait to read book 2.

Shattered Promises by Jessica Sorensen
Published: February 26th, 2013
Reading Level: New Adult
Paperback: 284 pages
Source: Author
Rating: 5 of 5 stars

Summary:

For twenty-one year-old Gemma, life has never been normal. She knows nothing about her past and has been haunted by the same monsters in her nightmares for the last few months. Unemotional and numb to life, she feels disconnected from everyone. Until the very first day she cries. After that, nothing in her life is the same.
Her emotions slowly surface and she starts experiencing love, happiness, and anger, feelings she never knew existed. But they leave her confused and she doesn’t know whether to embrace them or run away from them.
Her life only gets more complicated when she meets Alex. Sexy, arrogant, and secretive, Alex can get under Gemma’s skin like no one can. Yet she’s drawn to him by an invisible connection she has no control over. She’s also seen him before. In her nightmares.
Every part of Gemma’s mind is screaming at her to stay away from Alex, but every other part of her is begging to get close to him. But the closer she gets, the more she realizes Alex knows more about her than he originally let on.
As secrets about her past unravel, Gemma’s life becomes threatened. She needs to figure out what’s going on, before she winds up dead. But the only person she can turn to for answers is the one person she isn’t sure she can trust.

Review:

I truly loved this story! I am already a huge fan of Jessica's work and this just made that fan-girl feeling stronger. Shattered Promises involves a plot I had never encountered before. Gemma hasn't had a great life and she deals with the lack of expression emotions partly do to that fact. It's something she's tried to get used to. But one day the emotional wall breaks down and she realizes that something within her is changing. Around this time, she meets Alex. Alex is infuriating at first. He snaps at her for no reason and makes Gemma's blood boil. This instantly made me love them both because I can't help but be drawn into those love/hate relationships.

Gemma has no idea why she can't seem to get away from Alex but soon she finds out. Someone is after her and she is more important than she could have ever imagined. This introduces her to a world she never knew existed. The world-building in this book is excellent! It's so complicated but I never felt confused or put off by the details. I was completely entranced and couldn't make myself put the book down.

The other characters we meet in the story, Alex's sister and their "friend" Laylen. Wow, Laylen! You will love him, I promise! But each person brought so much to this story. I looked forward to finding out more about them as it continued.

Now, this book is 100% NA! These scenes were HOT! I was blushing like crazy. I felt it was the perfect type of romance that 2 young people have -- passionate, spontaneous, and fun.

After reading this book I immediately checked with Jessica to see when the next one is coming out. I will be reading it as soon as I get my hands on it.

If you are a fan of NA, or just awesome books in general, pick this one up! The plot, characters, and romance were written to perfection and made this completely un-put-downable!

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