Collections

Reviews + Giveaway: Marked & Claimed by Sarah Fine

2015-02-24T08:00:00.000-05:00

Marked (Servants of Fate, #1) by Sarah Fine
Release Date: January 1, 2015 / Rating: 4 out of 5 stars

I've been pumped to read Marked ever since I heard about its release a year ago. Sarah Fine's one of my favorite authors, and Marked is book one in her first adult series. While she's known for her young adults novels, after reading this book I think she's proven she can write for any audience.

Marked follows paramedic partners Cacy Ferry and Eli Margolis as they try to save lives and survive in a futuristic and devastated version of Boston. They also have to fight their intense attraction to one another and deal with the deadly secrets Cacy and her powerful family are hiding. Cacy and Eli were both awesome characters. I loved how accepting they were of each other and how their relationship developed from friendship to romance. I especially enjoyed the romance. It got really hot and steamy at times! I also appreciated how protective and close they were with their siblings. Good relationships between siblings are something I haven't seen much in the books I've read, so it's always nice and memorable when I do.

Marked was a fun and exciting start to a new series involving family politics and the afterlife. As soon as I finished it, I could not wait to pick up the next book Claimed! If you love adult books in the paranormal romance and urban fantasy genres, I definitely recommend this series to you.

Claimed (Servants of Fate, #2) by Sarah Fine
Release Date: March 24, 2015 / Rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars

Claimed is book two in the Servants of Fate series, and I thought it was even better than Marked! I felt that the world became more unique and the characters more fascinating in this book. It was just an unputdownable read!

While Marked was about Eli and Cacy, this time the story revolved around Eli's sister Galena and Cacy's brother Declan. Galena is a scientist, working on finding cures for the diseases ravaging the world, and Declan is a paramedic, part of the powerful Ferry clan, who wants to honor his father's dying wish of protecting Galena in order to save the future. We met Galena and Declan in the previous book, and it was clear from the beginning that they were going to have a deep, emotional bond. What happened to Galena and her brother years ago was devastating and traumatizing, and I'm glad Galena had someone as patient and protective as Declan at her side. They worked so well together, and their relationship was sweet and intense. I honestly couldn't get enough!

After reading Claimed, it's no surprise I'm eagerly anticipating the release of the final book Fated. (I hope a certain intriguing Kere is one of the main characters!) This series is set in a harsh, yet captivating world full of wonderful characters, non-stop action, and amazing relationships. I highly recommend it!

To celebrate the upcoming release of Claimed, I'm giving away a paperback copy of Marked! This giveaway is open to US residents and ends March 7. Fill out the Rafflecopter form below to enter.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Top 5 Books & Goals

2014-12-30T20:20:00.001-05:00

I realize I haven't posted anything since October. I think the amount of blog entries I post will continue to be scarce, but hopefully I find a balance next year. Anyway, since I'm on break, I decided to make an end-of-year list!

Top 5 Favorite Books I Read in 2014

Chaos by Sarah Fine - The conclusion to one of my favorite series that I believe deserves more attention. I'm sad it's over, but I couldn't have asked for a better ending.
Easy by Tammara Webber - This book definitely lived up to all the high praise it has received. It was an emotional and amazing read.
Magic Slays by Ilona Andrews - One of my favorite urban fantasy series. Each book has been awesome and addicting so far.
Of Metal and Wishes by Sarah Fine - Loved the characters and the setting. It would have been satisfying as a stand-alone, but having a sequel makes it even better.
Spiral by Mila Ferrera - This book surprised me. It was unexpected, heartbreaking, and different from other new adult stories I've read.

Top 5 Books Released in 2014 I Still Need to Read

Breakable by Tammara Webber - Well, I loved Easy, so of course I need to read this one.
Isla and the Happily Ever After by Stephanie Perkins - I've been waiting YEARS for this!
Rival by Penelope Douglas - Loved Madoc in the first two books.
Silver Shadows by Richelle Mead - I actually started this months ago. I need to finish it so that I can get excited for The Ruby Circle.
This Shattered World by Amie Kaufman & Meagan Spooner - The first book was amazing, and I'm sure this will be too.

Top 5 Books Releasing in 2015 I Can't Wait to Read

Blood Queen by Rhiannon Hart - It was suppose to come out this year, but the release date moved to 2015. That cliffhanger from book 2...!
Burned by Karen Marie Moning - Another one that was suppose to come out this year. I'm pretty much dying for this book!
End of Days by Susan Ee - I had a feeling it would be out next year, but I'm shocked it's coming out in May. That's not too far. Yay!
Of Dreams and Rust by Sarah Fine - Although the first book could have been a stand-alone, I was so happy when I found out there was going to be a sequel!
The Return by Jennifer L. Armentrout - I think the Covenant series will always be my favorite books by JLA, so I'm very excited for this spinoff!

Top 5 Bookish Goals for 2015

Buy a bookshelf - There's stacks of books growing on my floor because I ran out of shelf space... I need a new one! I plan on buying a 5-shelf case next month.
Go to a book event - I caught a cold (which almost led to bronchitis) & missed YALLFest in November. I was so disappointed! Some of my favorite authors were there this year too. :'( I'm hoping to try again in 2015. And maybe the SC Book Festival in May.
Read at least 25 books - That includes those 10 books listed above. I need to seriously find a balance between work & life outside of work. I only read about 40 books this year. I feel behind.
Stop buying Kindle books when I'm bored - For real... I already have too many books to read, especially in my Kindle app! Plus, I'm trying to save money. I gotta calm down.
Get a Kindle - lol Okay, I know I sound like I'm contradicting myself, BUT! Reading on my iPad sucks. I just have no idea which type of Kindle to get.

Mini Review: First Night by Lauren Blakely

2014-10-13T08:00:00.000-04:00

First Night
by Lauren Blakely

An erotic novella from the New York Times and USA Today Bestselling author Lauren Blakely...

It was only supposed to be one night…

When the sinfully handsome man walks into her bar in San Francisco, Julia Bell simply wants a break from the troubles that keep chasing her. That escape comes in the form of sexy, confident and commanding Clay Nichols, who captivates her mind AND turns her inside out with pleasure. The attraction is electric and they share one scorchingly hot night together, but they also discover there is more than just off-the-charts chemistry; the connection between them runs deep. Clay never thought he’d return to New York with this woman still on his mind. But he can’t get her out of his system, and he needs more of her…He wants more than just the first night…

*This is a prequel novella to the erotic romance NIGHT AFTER NIGHT.*

Mini Review:
I started with this novella to see how I would take to the series, and sadly I'm not impressed.

Even though I guiltily enjoyed this book, it reads like beginner/intermediate fanfiction. The writing seemed blocky, and I felt like someone had a thesaurus sitting next to them trying to expand on the vocabulary usage. Let me tell you that this can be a good and bad thing.

I'm still trying to decide if I'll give the actual series a shot, but if I do I'll be sure to post a review.

Rating: 3 out of 5 stars

Review + Giveaway: Chaos by Sarah Fine

2014-10-07T13:18:00.002-04:00

Title: Chaos (Guards of the Shadowlands, #3)
Author: Sarah Fine
Pages: 388
Publisher: Skyscape
Release Date: October 7, 2014

With Juri in control and everything in absolute chaos, Lela plunges into the depths of hell to free Malachi from creatures that have waited decades to exact their revenge. But the Judge has her own way of doing things, and Lela must work with Ana, the new Captain, who has a very personal mission of her own. Together, they infiltrate the most horrifying realm either has yet encountered in the Shadowlands—the bitter landscape ruled by the Mazikin.

The stakes could not be higher, and Lela must accept the help—and love—of people she barely knows or trusts. As alliances and loyalties shift and she realizes the soul she came to save isn’t the only one in need of rescue, can Lela summon the strength to see the fight through to the very end?

My Thoughts: After the devastating cliffhanger in the previous book Fractured, I was dying to know the fate of Lela and Malachi! I had no idea what would go down or how things would be resolved in this final book, but knowing what the characters had already gone through in the first two books, I knew it wasn't going to be easy for them. Or even me as a reader, since I knew I had to prepare myself for the all the heartbreaking moments to come.

It really was no surprise that Chaos had me hooked from the very first page. It picked up right where Fractured left off with Lela determined to do everything she could to save Malachi. I was so happy when Ana, a familiar face from Sanctum, teamed up with Lela on the mission, even though their reunion wasn't what Lela expected (if you've read Vigilante, you'll understand Ana's reaction). Plenty of other characters made an appearance throughout the book as well. Some were familiar, others were new. And just like in Fractured, it wasn't easy figuring out which characters were trustworthy or not. It caused me to question every single action of certain characters and definitely raised the tension in the book.

Something I really appreciated about Chaos, and this series in general, was how important love is to the characters. Being loved and loving someone gave them the hope and strength they needed to keep going after all the hardships and trauma they had endured. Which brings me to one of my absolute favorite relationships ever: Lela and Malachi. I don't want to get into too much detail about what happened between them in Chaos because it's one of those things that shouldn't be spoiled. However, I will say that there were many times where I was swooning and smiling like crazy and many times where my heart completely broke for them. Their moments together were some of the most emotional parts in the series, and I'm going to miss reading about them.

Chaos was addicting and filled with the explosive action and sweet romance I've come to expect from this amazing series. Even though the ending was bittersweet to me because the story is now over, and I'm going to miss Lela and Malachi and all the other wonderful characters, it was the perfect conclusion to Lela's story and one that she deserved. The Guards of the Shadowlands series will always be one of my favorite series, and if you have not started this series yet, I highly recommend that you do!

Rating: 5 out of 5 stars

To celebrate the release of the final book, I have two prizes up for grabs! The first one, for US residents only, is a hardcover copy of the first book Sanctum. The second prize will be open internationally (if you live in the US, you are eligible as well), and the winner will be able to choose a paperback copy of either Sanctum, Fractured, or Chaos! Both giveaways end November 8. Fill out the Rafflecopter form below to enter. Good luck! :D
a Rafflecopter giveaway

Reviews: Shatter by Erin McCarthy & Vigilante by Sarah Fine

2014-09-26T08:00:00.000-04:00

Shatter by Erin McCarthy
Release Date: September 2, 2014 / Rating: 3 out of 5 stars

I'm a fan of Erin McCarthy's True Believers series. I think this series contains some of the more unique new adult storylines out there. That being said, Shatter could not hold up to my expectations. In fact, I didn't find it to be all that memorable compared to the rest of the books in the series.

I was really looking forward to reading Kylie and Jonathan's story, especially since it involved pregnancy, which I don't believe I see much of in new adult books. However, Kylie and Jonathan weren't interesting characters to me. And for some reason, I couldn't bring myself to believe in their relationship. I just wasn't feeling the chemistry between them. Basically, I had no emotional connection to them or their story. There were things that surprised and shocked me, but in the end, I was left feeling unsatisfied with this final book.

Although Shatter may not have lived up to my expectations, I would still recommend the series to those who love new adult books. And I would still definitely recommend Shatter to True Believers fans. You might enjoy it a whole lot more than I did!

Vigilante by Sarah Fine
Release Date: July 25, 2014 / Rating: 5 out of 5 stars

I was upset for days after finishing Fractured, book two in Sarah Fine's Guards of the Shadowlands series. It ended on a devastating cliffhanger that broke my heart to pieces. When it was announced there was a short story from Ana's perspective that could be read before the release of the final book Chaos, I was ecstatic. Ana is awesome, and I've been wondering what happened to her after the events in book one Sanctum.

Vigilante gave plenty of insight into Ana's character and had answers to questions I've been wondering about since the first book. Including more information about the other worlds that have been mentioned in the first two books and Ana's relationship with Takeshi. It also gave a glimpse as to what happened to a certain character after the end of Fractured. This story covered a lot more than I was hoping for, which made me feel so grateful, and at the same time, it left me craving for Chaos even more.

Vigilante may be a short story, but it was full of the powerful emotions and action that I've come to expect from this amazing series. It is a definite must read if you have read Fractured and are dying for Chaos! Don't miss out!

Review: Haze by Paula Weston

2014-09-16T05:00:00.000-04:00

Follow the entire Haze blog tour schedule HERE.

Title: Haze (The Rephaim, #2)
Author: Paula Weston
Pages: 448
Publisher: Tundra Books
Release Date: September 9, 2014

Gaby Winters' life used to be pretty normal. She lived with her best friend. She worked in a library. She was slowly getting over the death of her twin brother, Jude. And then Rafa came looking for her.

With him, her blood-soaked nightmares stopped. But now they are reality. She is one of the Rephaim - a wingless half angel, descended from the Fallen. Demons exist and they are hunting her.

She knows she's alive when she's meant to be dead. And that means maybe Jude is too. So why isn't she out there looking for him?

My Thoughts: I was in a bit of a reading rut before I started Haze. I honestly believed it would have a negative effect on how I felt about this book. However, it turns out I was wrong, which was a huge relief! Haze was such a great book and ended up being exactly what I needed to read.

Haze is the second novel in Paula Weston's Rephaim series, and it starts off a week after the end of the first book Shadows. I was a little worried I wouldn't remember all the details from the previous book, since I read it over a year ago, but it was easy slipping back into the complicated and fascinating life of Gaby Winters.

Just like in Shadows, there was still plenty of mystery surrounding Gaby, including her past and the fate of her twin brother Jude. Being in the dark right along with her was killer because there were moments where it felt like some of the answers were in reach. At the same time, though, I loved that I was never able to figure out things before Gaby did. It made it that much easier to sympathize with her and that much harder to put the book down.

In this book, Gaby's main goal was searching for Jude. At least that's what Rafa, her (former?) rival and the guy she clearly has feelings for now, wanted. Unfortunately, yet understandably, it wasn't that simple. Gaby wanted her brother back, but what if they never found him? Or what if they did find him and he had his memories this entire time? Those were some of the scenarios Gaby couldn't help but to imagine and fear. Add in the necessary side missions that made Gaby and Rafa's search even more complicated, and the anticipation for any sign of Jude pretty much had me on the edge of my seat.

What helped ease my anxiety throughout the story were those sweet and intense moments between Gaby and Rafa. Even though Gaby and Rafa's tendency to not be one-hundred percent up front with each other ended up causing some frustrations, their relationship was the highlight of the novel for me. I just love Rafa's personality and how protective he is of Gaby, and I also love how Gaby is when she's with him. I hope that whatever happens between them, whether it's good or bad, makes the bond they share that much stronger.

Haze was a wonderful follow-up to Shadows. Enough was revealed to keep me satisfied, but enough was kept hidden to keep me wanting more. I'm so glad this is a four-book series, not a trilogy. I couldn't imagine everything being wrapped up in the third book. That being said, I'm looking forward to the next book in the series and unraveling more of the mystery of Gaby and Jude!

Rating: 5 out of 5 stars

Can you guess which character from the series I'm most like? Okay, I won't keep you all in suspense. I am...

...Ez! Yay! She's awesome and badass. Before you go, be sure to follow the rest of the Haze blog tour! Find the schedule HERE. :)

Review + Giveaway: Of Metal and Wishes by Sarah Fine

2014-07-28T00:00:00.000-04:00

Title: Of Metal and Wishes
Author: Sarah Fine
Pages: 320
Publisher: Margaret K. McElderry Books
Release Date: August 5, 2014

There are whispers of a ghost in the slaughterhouse where sixteen-year-old Wen assists her father in his medical clinic—a ghost who grants wishes to those who need them most. When one of the Noor, men hired as cheap factory labor, humiliates Wen, she makes an impulsive wish of her own, and the Ghost grants it. Brutally.

Guilt-ridden, Wen befriends the Noor, including their outspoken leader, a young man named Melik. At the same time, she is lured by the mystery of the Ghost and learns he has been watching her … for a very long time.

As deadly accidents fuel tensions within the factory, Wen must confront her growing feelings for Melik, who is enraged at the sadistic factory bosses and the prejudice faced by his people at the hand of Wen’s, and her need to appease the Ghost, who is determined to protect her against any threat—real or imagined. She must decide whom she can trust, because as her heart is torn, the factory is exploding around her … and she might go down with it.

My Thoughts: As soon as I finished reading chapter one, I just knew I was going to love this book. The eerie setting gave me a feeling similar to what I get when I look at photos of old buildings and factories. Wonder and awe. I felt this way not only with the setting but the entire story. It wasn't at all a surprise though because Of Metal and Wishes is the fourth novel I've read by Sarah Fine and her stories are some of my absolute favorites.

Of Metal and Wishes revolved around Wen, a sixteen-year-old girl trying to adjust to living with her doctor father at the local slaughterhouse Gochan One. Although she was friendly with many workers at the factory, it didn't stop the loneliness and sadness that consumed her ever since the death of her mother. Her responsibilities as her father's assistant kept her busy and were a comforting distraction, but life at Gochan One became complicated and dangerous for Wen once the barbaric Noor were hired to work there and she challenged the ghost haunting the factory.

While Wen seemed unsure of herself and what she wanted in the beginning, there was a quiet fierceness to her that was hard to miss. Her compassion and bravery were traits I really admired about her. When most of her people treated the Noor horribly, she took care of the Noor and stood up for them. Sometimes she made mistakes or acted impulsively, but she always tried to do the right thing and didn't allow others to influence her decisions. She went through a lot in this book and grew immensely, and I found her to be such a great and relatable character.

The Noor, specifically their leader Melik, had quite an impact on Wen. To most of Wen's people, the Noor are considered lower than dirt. Wen was quick to judge them too, but she eventually saw how wrong she was. Melik was honorable, hardworking, and treated his people with respect, which fascinated Wen because it didn't match what she had been told about the Noor at all. Melik had me swooning with his words, his actions, and the attention he gave Wen. I loved their tentative romance and how comfortable and protective they were of each other. What they shared was sweet and slow-burning, and I was always so happy when they had moments alone together. Being around Melik and the other Noor really helped Wen to see the world in a different way.

The mysterious Ghost was another important part of Wen's journey. He brought life to the factory, granting wishes to the workers and making Wen feel less alone. However, he also brought fear and death, and I didn't know whether or not to trust him. His obsession with Wen was a curse, but I admit, in a way, it was a blessing for her as well. If it weren't him, Wen wouldn't have gone through all the guilt that she did, but without him, she wouldn't have survived many of the things she experienced. I guess that's why I found myself sympathizing with him. He did some pretty horrible things in the factory, yet I thought he proved that redemption was possible. It even made me wish things had ended differently for him all those years ago, and I know Wen felt the same way.

I really liked that Of Metal and Wishes showed the importance of kindness, trust, friendship, and love. For Wen and those she cared about, the final chapters of the book were a bit heartbreaking and bittersweet. But it was also full of hope, which made it a fitting end to the story. With its beautiful and fluid writing and characters that were remarkable and inspiring, Of Metal and Wishes easily became one of my favorite books this year. I can't recommend it enough, and I can't wait to read the sequel!

Rating: 5 out of 5 stars

Bookittyblog and Joyousreads have also read and reviewed Of Metal and Wishes, and you can read their reviews on their blogs. Not only that we're giving away a signed ARC to a lucky winner! The giveaway is open internationally and ends August 4. Winner will have 48 hours to respond to the email before a new winner is chosen. To enter, fill out the Rafflecopter form below. Good luck!
a Rafflecopter giveaway

Cover Reveal + Giveaway: Love and Other Theories by Alexis Bass

2014-06-26T07:00:00.000-04:00

Love and Other Theories by Alexis Bass

Release Date: December 31, 2014

Publisher: HarperTeen

If you want more, you have to give less.

That’s the secret to dating in high school. By giving as little as they expect to get in return, seventeen-year-old Aubrey Housing and her three best friends have made it to the second semester of their senior year heartbreak-free. And it’s all thanks to a few simple rules: don’t commit, don’t be needy, and don’t give away your heart.

So when smoking-hot Nathan Diggs transfers to Lincoln High, it shouldn’t be a big deal. At least that’s what Aubrey tells herself. But Nathan’s new-boy charm, his kindness, and his disarming honesty throw Aubrey off her game and put her in danger of breaking the most important rule of all: Don’t fall in love.

Add on Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/18480081

Pre-order it: Amazon | Barnes & Noble

Author Bio: Alexis Bass grew up in Washington, went to college in Arizona, and spent her early twenties in Seattle. She currently lives in Northern California with Dylan McKay, her gorgeous and rambunctious golden retriever. She loves good fashion and good TV as much as a good book, and is a huge advocate of the three C’s: coffee, chocolate, and cheese. LOVE AND OTHER THEORIES is her first novel. Visit her at www.alexisbassbooks.com or on Twitter: @alexisbasswrite

Giveaway: Alexis is giving away a $50 gift card to the book retailer of your choice! To enter, fill out the Rafflecopter form below.
a Rafflecopter giveaway

Cover Reveal + Giveaway: Falling Away by Penelope Douglas

2014-06-17T20:01:00.000-04:00

Falling Away (Fall Away, #3) by Penelope Douglas

Genre: New Adult Romance

Release Date: January 6, 2015

Jaxon is the guy she’s supposed to avoid.

K.C. is the girl he won’t let get away....

K. C. Carter has always followed the rules—until this year, when a mistake leaves her the talk of her college campus and her carefully arranged life comes crashing to a halt. Now she’s stuck in her small hometown for the summer to complete her court-ordered community service, and to make matters worse, trouble is living right next door.

Jaxon Trent is the worst kind of temptation and exactly what K.C. was supposed to stay away from in high school. But he never forgot her. She was the one girl who wouldn’t give him the time of day and the only one to ever say no. Fate has brought K.C. back into his life—except what he thought was a great twist of luck turns out to be too close for comfort. As they grow closer, he discovers that convincing K.C. to get out from her mother’s shadow is hard, but revealing the darkest parts of his soul is nearly impossible.…

♥Pre-Order Falling Away♥

Amazon • B&N • Kobo • iTunes

♥Falling Away - Teaser♥

(unedited, subject to change prior publication)

“You’re afraid of yourself,” he said flatly. “Not me.”

And then he backed up, looking down at me." And that’s why you’re gutless, K.C." All the softness from his voice was now gone. “Now I have to shower, and you need to leave.”

And he turned around and strode for the men’s locker room.

I shook my head.

He was wrong. I wasn't gutless. Why did he keep saying that?

I sniffled and cleared my throat, standing tall. “Maybe I just don’t want you,” I blurted out and damn near smiled when he spun around, looking surprised. “Maybe I just don’t want you, Jax. Did you ever consider there might be one woman in this world that doesn’t pant after you?”

And I breathed out a small laugh as I spun around and headed for the door.

But before I even reached the handle, an arm circled my waist, yanking me back into a warm body, and I gasped just as my hair was swiped to the side and a hot mouth was on my neck.

Everything fell apart. My knees buckled, but he held me tight as my eyes closed, and my neck fell to the side, inviting him in.

Oh, my God!

It felt so good. I couldn’t think. I couldn’t pull away. I couldn’t stop him. His mouth was like hot water pouring over me, creating a blanket of heat. His teeth grazed my skin, rough but not hard, and he slid his lips and teeth over the sensitive area under my ear, and I wasn’t sure if he was kissing me or getting ready to eat me.

He left short but deep kisses across my neck, at the base, and under my ear. His tongue flicked my ear lobe right before his other hand reached around and turned my chin to him.

And then his mouth was on mine. I moaned and gasped, probably sounding like I was in pain, but I couldn’t help it. The tornado between my legs made my skin tingle.

Jax’s tongue found mine, and I groaned into his mouth, inhaling his scent that reminded me of summer. Of sweet cotton candy on a Ferris Wheel and cool water on hot skin.

The heat, the wetness, the taste, everything was hard and fast as his lips worked mine.

Keeping the same arm around my waist, his other hand left my face and dove straight under my skirt and into my panties.

“Oh,” I whimpered a muffled groan into his mouth that still held me hostage. What was he doing? I needed to stop this!

But my eyes fluttered as his smooth fingers dipped into my center, swirling the wetness already there around my clit.

And then his mouth left mine, and he yanked me up off my feet and growled in my ear.

“You’re so wet for me, K.C.” His voice was hard and threatening. “You're gutless, helpless, and a fucking liar, too.”

And then he dropped me on my ass, and I fell to the mats, shaking with confusion.

All I heard behind me was a door open and close, and I knew I was alone.

Bringing a shaky hand to my mouth, I sucked in air like it was going out of style. “Holy shit,” I whispered.

© Penelope Douglas, Falling Away

♥Buy books 1 & 2 of the series♥

Bully (Fall Away, #1)

Amazon • Amazon UK • B&N • Kobo • iTunes

♦♦♦♦

Until You (Fall Away, #1.5)

Amazon • Amazon UK • B&N • Kobo • iTunes

♥Pre-order RIVAL♥

Coming August 26, 2014

Rival (Fall Away, #3)

Amazon • B&N • iTunes

♥About Penelope♥

Penelope Douglas is a writer and teacher in Las Vegas. Born in Dubuque, Iowa, she is the oldest of five children. Penelope attended the University of Northern Iowa, earning a Bachelor's degree in Public Administration, because her father told her to "just get the degree!" She then earned a Masters of Science in Education at Loyola University in New Orleans, because she hated Public Administration. One night, she got tipsy and told the bouncer at the bar where she worked that his son was hot, and three years later they were married. To the son, not the bouncer. They have spawn, but just one. A daughter named Aydan. Penelope loves sweets, the show Sons of Anarchy, and she shops at Target almost daily.

Website • Facebook • Twitter • Pinterest • Goodreads

♥Giveaway♥

(1) $50 gift card or (5) $10 gift card. Winners choice of either Amazon or B&N card. Open internationally.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Cover Reveal: Live for Me by Erin McCarthy

2014-06-09T14:35:00.001-04:00

Live for Me (Blurred Lines, #2) by Erin McCarthy

Publication Date: June 23rd 2014

Genres: Contemporary, New Adult, Romance

The solace she sought…

In and out of foster care her whole life, Tiffany Ennis has never had space or privacy, so housesitting a mansion on the coast of Maine with only the absentee rich owner’s dog for company is pure bliss. But her peace is shattered when the injured owner returns to his compound unexpectedly. Tiffany finds him to be sexy and intriguing, showing an interest in her that must be mocking, given that everyone’s always told her she’s plain, nothing special.

Becomes an affair she never expected…

Devin Gold, known in the music industry as Gold Daddy, is usually in New York City attending drop parties and having men and women alike throw themselves at him, and Tiffany wishes he’d stayed there. There’s no reason for a top producer to hole up in Maine in the dead of winter, and every time she turns around he’s asking her prying questions. She finds herself starting to enjoy their intellectual conversations and clever sparring matches, and in a hot minute she’s falling for him. Even knowing that he’s a decade older, filthy rich, and could only want her for his momentary amusement.

Yet even when he hosts beautiful and confident guests from the city, he still seems to prefer her company, and is protective when odd things start happening around the house, threatening her safety. But how far is Tiffany willing to go with a man who is still very much married, estranged wife or not, just to feel special?

And all the lines between past and present and right and wrong are blurred…

Add to Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/21948295-live-for-me

Purchase book 1 YOU MAKE ME: Amazon | Barnes & Noble

AUTHOR BIO:
USA Today and New York Times Bestselling author Erin McCarthy sold her first book in 2002 and has since written almost fifty novels and novellas in teen fiction, new adult, and adult romance. Erin has a special weakness for New Orleans, tattoos, high-heeled boots, beaches and martinis. She lives in Ohio with her family, two grumpy cats and a socially awkward dog.

Author links:
http://www.erinmccarthy.net/
https://twitter.com/authorerin
https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/7941.Erin_McCarthy

Brazen's May Release Day + Giveaway

2014-05-27T00:00:00.000-04:00

If you like your heroes hot, the sex hotter, and a swoon-worthy romance to swoop in and save your happily ever after, Brazen has the story for you. Sinfully sexy soldiers. Alpha cops who demand control. Sweet guys with a naughty side in the bedroom. At Brazen, they've got the hero destined to melt your... heart. Visit the Entangled website, the Brazen Blog, follow them on Twitter, Like their Facebook page, and follow them on Pinterest.

Introducing Brazen's May 26th releases:


Work Hard, play harder... Find out more! Special $0.99 Introductory Price!	*Let the game of seduction begin...* Find out more! Special $0.99 Introductory Price!

Plus don't miss the Brazen Seduction Party

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Stacking the Shelves #13

2014-05-25T15:00:00.001-04:00

Stacking the Shelves is hosted by Tynga's Reviews!

Bought:
All Lined Up by Cora Carmack
Archer's Voice by Mia Sheridan
Breakable (Contours of the Heart, #2) by Tammara Webber
Collaboration by Michelle Lynn & Nevaeh Lee
Freeing (Fading, #2) by E.K. Blair
Reasonable Doubt, Vol. 2 by Whitney Gracia Williams
Rock Star by Roslyn Hardy Holcomb
Tempting the Bodyguard (Gamble Brothers, #3) by J. Lynn

Gift:
The Fault in Our Stars by John Green [Thanks to Brie!]

Won:
The Broken by Shelley Coriell
Donners of the Dead by Karina Halle
The Program by Suzanne Young
The Treatment (The Program, #2) by Suzanne Young
Say What You Will ARC by by Cammie McGovern
You Make Me by Erin McCarthy

The books I got this past month. I haven't gotten much reading done and probably won't get much reading done for the time being, which makes me a bit sad. But I gotta do what I gotta do. Anyway, happy birthday to my co-blogger and BFF Brie! Her birthday was yesterday. Hope your day was awesome, girl! :)

Various ARCs Giveaway #15

2014-05-20T00:00:00.000-04:00

Altered by Gennifer Albin

Avalon by Mindee Arnett
Unforgotten by Jessica Brody

Margot by Jillian Cantor
Tin Star by Cecil Castellucci

The Enchanter Heir by Cinda Williams Chima

Mila 2.0 by Debra Driza

The Song of the Quarkbeast by Jasper Fforde

The Well's End by Seth Fishman

Tyger Tyger by Kersten Hamilton
Uninvited by Sophie Jordan

False Sight by Dan Krokos

We Were Liars by E. Lockhart

Afterparty by Ann Redisch Stampler

A Midsummer Night's Scream by R.L. Stine

Relic by Heather Terrell

The Last Wild by Piers Torday

There will be ONE winner, and they will get to choose 2 of ARCs shown in the stacks above! This giveaway is US only and ends May 31. Just fill out the Rafflecopter form below to enter. Be sure to read my Giveaway Policy. :)

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Review: Only Between Us by Mila Ferrera

2014-05-16T08:00:00.000-04:00

Title: Only Between Us
Author: Mila Ferrera
Pages: 247
Publisher: Mila Ferrera Books
Release Date: September 3, 2013

Last semester, Romy escaped from an abusive relationship with the guy she’d thought was the man of her dreams. This semester she’s putting herself back together, determined to reclaim her passion for art and for life. When she signs up for a painting class at the local art co-op, the possibility of passion becomes very real -- in the form of her teacher, Caleb. Both mysterious and seriously hot, Caleb bares his soul on his canvases, and Romy’s fascinated by what she sees.

Caleb is just trying to keep his head above water. Caring for his traumatized, unstable sister is getting harder every day, and his paintings are so dark and bleak that no one is buying. Teaching classes at the co-op is no longer enough, and now he’s going to have to sell more than just his art to the wealthy, sex-starved women in his classes. But when Romy comes along, she makes everything more complicated. She sees the truth in his paintings -- a truth no one else has realized, until now.

Romy and Caleb might have a real shot together -- one that could heal them both. But when ghosts from their pasts re-emerge, determined to keep them apart, will they be strong enough to hold on to each other?

My Thoughts: After loving Mila Ferrera's Spiral, I had a really good feeling I was going to enjoy her other new adult novels. So I wasn't at all surprised by how quickly I was hooked with Only Between Us! Just like with Spiral, Ferrera's sophomore novel was a story full of heartache and tough issues that was eased by the love and hope shared between the characters.

Only Between Us revolved around twenty-three year old Romy, who is trying to get her life back after being in an abusive relationship, and twenty-four year old Caleb, who does anything and eveything he can to care for his mentally ill younger sister. I'm so glad the story was in both of their perspectives because I loved knowing exactly what was going on inside their heads. It was easier to sympathize with them and made things much more powerful. It also showed that the author can flawlessly write from the male POV just as well as she can the female POV.

Since I've always had a soft spot for art, I loved that Romy and Caleb were artists and met in an painting class. Caleb was actually Romy's teacher, and his artwork inspired Romy and allowed her to see all the secrets Caleb hid from the world. Not only that, Romy's words impacted Caleb in a way that he couldn't describe and left him feeling like he was finally understood and worthy. I admired them as individuals, and I loved how well they fit together. They were kind and wonderful people, and their relationship was just so sweet and hot! They both were going through their own problems, but with each other they gained strength and the ability to heal bit by bit, even though it wasn't easy getting there.

Only Between Us was an emotional read about two broken people who fall in love and change each other for the better. It had a satisfying conclusion and made me even more of a fan of the author Mila Ferrera. It looks like there's a companion novel to this book focusing on Caleb's best friend Daniel called Everything Between Us, and it should come as no surprise that I can't wait to read it!

Rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars

J. Lynn's Tempting the Bodyguard Release Day

2014-05-12T07:00:00.000-04:00

We are extremely excited to celebrate the release of J. Lynn's TEMPTING THE BODYGUARD! TEMPTING THE BODYGUARD is an Adult category romance novel being published by Entangled Publishing’s Brazen imprint and is a part of Jennifer’s Gamble Brothers Series!

TEMPTING THE BODYGUARD by J. Lynn

Release Date: May 12, 2014

Publisher: Entangled Brazen

He can protect her from everyone except himself.

Alana Gore is in danger. A take-no-prisoners publicist, her way with people has made her more than a few enemies over the years, but a creepy stalker is an entirely different matter. She needs a bodyguard, and the only man she can ask is not only ridiculously hot, but reputed to have taste for women that goes beyond adventurous.

Chandler Gamble has one rule: don't protect anyone you want to screw. But with Alana, he's caught between his job and his increasingly hard libido. On one hand, Alana needs his help. On the other, Chandler wants nothing more than to take the hot volcano of a woman in hand. To make her writhe in pleasure, until she's at his complete mercy.

She needs protection. He needs satisfaction. And the moment the line is crossed, all hell will break loose...

Buy it: Amazon | Barnes and Noble
Add on Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/16035968-tempting-the-bodyguard

About the Author

# 1 NEW YORK TIMES and USA TODAY Bestselling author Jennifer lives in Martinsburg, West Virginia. All the rumors you’ve heard about her state aren’t true. When she’s not hard at work writing. she spends her time reading, working out, watching really bad zombie movies, pretending to write, and hanging out with her husband and her Jack Russell Loki.

Her dreams of becoming an author started in algebra class, where she spent most of her time writing short stories….which explains her dismal grades in math. Jennifer writes young adult paranormal, science fiction, fantasy, and contemporary romance. She is published with Spencer Hill Press, Entangled Teen and Brazen, Disney/Hyperion and Harlequin Teen. Her book Obsidian has been optioned for a major motion picture and her Covenant Series has been optioned for TV.

She also writes adult and New Adult romance under the name J. Lynn. She is published by Entangled Brazen and HarperCollins.

Follow her: Website | Twitter | Facebook | JLA's Goodreads | J.Lynn's Goodreads

Reviews: Four Years Later by Monica Murphy & Easy by Tammara Webber

2014-05-05T08:00:00.000-04:00

Four Years Later by Monica Murphy
Release Date: March 4, 2014 / Rating: 3.5 out of 5 stars

Four Years Later is the conclusion to the One Week Girlfriend Quartet. I was excited to read it because I've always liked Owen and couldn't wait to read his story. However, I have to admit that I was disappointed in this book. Much like with Jen and Colin's story in Three Broken Promises, Owen and Chelsea's story never had the spark Drew and Fable's books had.

I think my main reason for not enjoying Four Years Later like I wanted to was because I had a difficult time connecting with Owen and Chelsea. I kept hoping and hoping I would eventually click with them, but it never happened. Chelsea didn't stand out to me, and Owen wasn't standing out like he did in the previous books. Their relationship felt instantaneous and rushed as well. The same could be said for the other couples, but at least they were believable to me. I just didn't feel much for Owen and Chelsea, and the unnecessary drama was the same old, same old.

I neither hated nor liked Four Years Later. It was just an okay read that I wished I could have loved. If you want to read this new adult quartet, I would still recommend it, especially the first two books and the novella about Drew and Fable.

Easy by Tammara Webber
Release Date: November 6, 2012 / Rating: 5 out of 5 stars

Although I've always heard good things about Easy and I've even owned a copy since 2012, I was in no hurry to read it. Now I'm wondering why I waited so long to read it! Because Easy was such a wonderful story with amazing romance and characters. It has to be one of the best new adult novels out there.

There were two things I really really loved about Easy. One was the development of the romance between Jacqueline and Lucas. It was so sweet and hot and had my heart bursting from happiness. I've always had soft spot for characters who have loved someone (in this case, it was Lucas having feelings for Jacqueline) from afar. I think their relationship was done so well. The other thing I loved was Lucas. Oh my god. This guy was PERFECT. And I don't mean in a cheesy, boring way. Every time he was around Jacqueline, the scenes left me feeling breathless. He was such a sweet, caring, and amazing guy. These are the type of romances and heroes I love to read about, and I'm just so happy Jacqueline and Lucas found each other.

Like I said, I can't believe it took me so long to read this book! However, at the same time, I have to admit I'm kind of glad I decided to read it so close to the release of Breakable, the companion novel to Easy from Lucas's POV. Even though I know it's going to be heartbreaking, I can't wait to get inside of his head.

Cover Reveal + Giveaway: Corrupt by Penelope Douglas

2014-05-01T06:05:00.000-04:00

Corrupt by Penelope Douglas

Genre: Dark, Erotic, Contemporary Romance

Expected Release Date: Spring 2015

Cover Designed by: Kari from Cover to Cover Designs

I was told that dreams were our heart’s desires. My nightmares, however, became my obsession.

His name is Michael Crist.

My boyfriend’s older brother is like that scary movie that you peek through your hand to watch. He is handsome, strong, and completely terrifying. The star of his college’s basketball team and now gone pro, he’s more concerned with the dirt on his shoe than me.

But I noticed him.

I saw him. I heard him. The things that he did, and the deeds that he hid…For years, I bit my nails, unable to look away.

Now, I’ve graduated high school and moved on to college, but I haven’t stopped watching Michael. He’s bad, and the dirt I’ve seen isn’t content to stay in my head anymore.

Because he’s finally noticed me.

Her name is Erika Fane, but everyone calls her Rika.

My brother’s girlfriend grew up hanging around my house and is always at our dinner table. She looks down when I enter a room and stills when I am close. I can always feel the fear rolling off of her, and while I haven’t had her body, I know that I have her mind. That’s all I really want anyway.

Until my brother leaves for the military, and I find Rika alone at college.

In my city.

Unprotected.

The opportunity is too good to be true as well as the timing. Because you see, three years ago she put a few of my high school friends in prison, and now they’re out.

We've waited. We've been patient. And now every last one of her nightmares will come true.

***Corrupt is stand-alone dark erotica set to be released Spring 2015.***

*About Penelope*

*Connect with Penelope*

Website I Facebook I Twitter I Pinterest I Goodreads

*Giveaway*

(3) $10 gift card from Amazon or B&N. Winner's choice. Open internationally.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Covet's April Release Day + Giveaway

2014-04-29T00:00:00.000-04:00

Covets have all the sexiness, emotion, and happily ever after that readers have come to expect and love from Entangled. They are firmly grounded in the contemporary world, but each novel brings in supernatural twists, breaking the contemporary and paranormal rules, alike. To find out more about their titles, chat with authors, participate in special events, and to find out what books you’ll be coveting next, visit the Entangled website, follow them on Twitter, LIKE their Facebook page, and join the Book Club.

Today I'm happy to be featuring Covet's April releases:

Don't Blackmail the Vampire by Tiffany Allee

Special $0.99 Introductory Price!

Charles Kane has found the perfect way to trap the man threatening his brother's wife: befriend him, get invited along on the skiing trip, and then search for incriminating evidence. How much better that audacious but adorable Rachel has her own vendetta against the bastard, and is just as eager to nail him to the wall. As far as Charles is concerned, there's nothing wrong with a little blackmail between two consenting adults. Especially when it's time for Rachel to pay up.

Giveaway
Find Out More!

Stop Dragon My Heart Around by Susannah Scott

Special $0.99 Introductory Price!

Leo denies his lust for Tee, Vegas’s favorite casino host, because she doesn’t bear his dragon mark and without that true soulmate, he will lose his dragon form. But when Tee's identity is challenged, Leo’s protective instincts kick in. Can he give up his dragon form for the woman he loves—even if it means shortening his life? Or has Tee had enough of having her heart dragged around?

Giveaway!
Find Out More!

Trusting An Angel by Missy Jane

Special $0.99 Introductory Price!

Isadora secretly longs for her boss Zerach’s attention, but her scarred body and his playboy ways keep her from acting on her feelings. When Zerach helps her fend off an unwanted advance, she sees him in a new light and can't help but wonder if he shares her feelings. When a demon starts stalking Isadora, Zerach, an archangel with a mission to protect humans from demons, will stop at nothing to protect her. Now he risks not only losing the woman he loves, but also losing his wings.

Giveaway!
Find Out More!

Stacking the Shelves #12

2014-04-27T11:37:00.001-04:00

Stacking the Shelves is hosted by Tynga's Reviews!

Bought:
A Need So Insatiable by Cecilia Robert
Come to Me Quietly by A.L. Jackson
Dreamfever (Fever, #4) by Karen Marie Moning
Shadowfever (Fever, #5) by Karen Marie Moning
Deeper (Caroline & West, #1) by Robin York
Dreams of Gods & Monsters (Daughter of Smoke & Bone, #3) by Laini Taylor
Drowning in Fire (The Elementals, #3) by Hanna Martine
Eleanor & Park by Rainbow Rowell
Falling (Fading, #3) by E.K. Blair
Foretold (The Demon Trappers, #4) by Jana Oliver
Reasonable Doubt by Whitney Gracia Williams
Rule by Jay Crownover
Saving Francesca by Melina Marchetta
Unfixable by Tessa Bailey

Review:
Rules of Entanglement (Fighting for Love, #2) by Gina L. Maxwell

Won:
Don't Look Back by Jennifer L. Armentrout
How We Lived eARC by Erin Butler
#scandal ARC by Sarah Ockler

Gah.. This month has taken forever to end. I've barely read anything because when I'm not busy I just want to be lazy. lol And I honestly cannot remember if I included all the books I bought this month (why do I keep buying books when I don't have much time to read???). I'm not even going to strain my brain to remember, and I'm too lazy to check my Kindle app. Meh. :P These books sound good though. :)

Cover Reveal: Tempting the Bodyguard by J. Lynn

2014-04-22T00:05:00.000-04:00

Tempting the Bodyguard (Gamble Brothers, #3) by J. Lynn

Release Date: May 12, 2014

Publisher: Entangled Brazen

He can protect her from everyone except himself.

Alana Gore is in danger. A take-no-prisoners publicist, her way with people has made her more than a few enemies over the years, but a creepy stalker is an entirely different matter. She needs a bodyguard, and the only man she can ask is not only ridiculously hot, but reputed to have taste for women that goes beyond adventurous.

Chandler Gamble has one rule: don't protect anyone you want to screw. But with Alana, he's caught between his job and his increasingly hard libido. On one hand, Alana needs his help. On the other, Chandler wants nothing more than to take the hot volcano of a woman in hand. To make her writhe in pleasure, until she's at his complete mercy.

She needs protection. He needs satisfaction. And the moment the line is crossed, all hell will break loose…

ABOUT THE AUTHOR
# 1 NEW YORK TIMES and USA TODAY Bestselling author Jennifer Armentrout lives in Martinsburg, West Virginia. All the rumors you’ve heard about her state aren’t true. When she’s not hard at work writing. she spends her time reading, working out, watching really bad zombie movies, pretending to write, and hanging out with her husband and her Jack Russell, Loki.

Her dreams of becoming an author started in algebra class, where she spent most of her time writing short stories….which explains her dismal grades in math. Jennifer writes young adult paranormal, science fiction, fantasy, and contemporary romance. She is published with Spencer Hill Press, Entangled Teen and Brazen, Disney/Hyperion and Harlequin Teen.

She also writes adult and New Adult romance under the name J. Lynn. She is published by Entangled Brazen and HarperCollins.

Where You Can Find Jennifer: Twitter | Facebook | Website | Entangled

Review + Giveaway: Scan by Walter Jury & Sarah Fine

2014-04-17T00:00:00.001-04:00

Title: Scan (Scan, #1)
Author: Walter Jury & Sarah Fine
Pages: 336
Publisher: Putnam Juvenile
Release Date: May 1, 2014

Tate and his father don’t exactly get along. As Tate sees it, his father has unreasonably high expectations for Tate to be the best—at everything. Tate finally learns what he’s being prepared for when he steals one of his dad’s odd tech inventions and mercenaries ambush the school, killing his father in the process and sending Tate on the run from aliens who look just like humans.

All Tate knows--like how to make weapons out of oranges and lighter fluid--may not be enough to save him as he’s plunged into a secret inter-species conflict that’s been going on for centuries. Aided only by his girlfriend and his estranged mother, with powerful enemies closing in on all sides, Tate races to puzzle out the secret behind his father’s invention and why so many are willing to kill for it. A riveting, fast-paced adventure, Scan is a clever alien thriller with muscle and heart.

My Thoughts: Before I started reading Scan, I expected it to have action and suspense. But I wasn't fully prepared for just how nonstop the action would be! There was car chases and crashes, explosions, gun fights, and so much more. It was nerve-racking yet exciting, and I could not wait to find out what would happen to the characters and how the book would end.

Throughout the majority of his life, Tate's had to endure rigorous training in combat and master as many subjects and languages as he could all because that's what his father wanted. Tate doesn't know why his father puts him through this, and since both of his parents refuse to tell him, it unsurprisingly causes tons of friction between them. Once Tate finds out the truth, though, he has to use all the knowledge and skills he's learned in order to survive and protect his loved ones.

I couldn't help but to be just as frustrated as Tate was with his parents. I didn't feel like they had been fair to him, keeping all kinds of secrets and information from him that would have been really helpful to know as soon as the chaos started. But as the story went on and things became more and more dangerous and complicated, I began to realize right along with Tate that it was necessary and for his own good. He probably would have been blinded by his beliefs and wouldn't be as good of a person as he is now had he known everything from the very beginning.

If you're wondering what Tate's father had been hiding from his son, well, it was lots of things. But what it all involved was...ALIENS! Aliens that arrived on Earth about 400 years ago and look exactly like humans. But what started off the unfortunate chain of events was a small device, a scanner, Tate stole from his father that can reveal who is a human and who is an alien. Both sides wanted it badly, and while you would think the aliens were the evil ones, it wasn't that simple. Everyone seemed to have their own agenda, and like Tate, I didn't know who to trust! Even by the end, I still didn't know who the real enemy was, which was something I really liked because not all humans were good just like not all aliens were bad.

One other thing I would like to mention is the importance of the women in Tate's life. I'm glad that Tate's girlfriend Christina and his mother were involved with the mission of protecting the scanner. Tate's skills and resilience helped him a lot, but I don't think he would have made it without them at his side. They were tough, smart, and resourceful, and together they made an awesome team! I especially adored Christina. She didn't have the training Tate and his mother had, but she knew how to hold her own. I loved how much she was willing to help them, even when she was hurt or terrified. As for Tate and Christina's relationship, it was sweet and obvious that they cared deeply and felt strongly for each other. But because of what they were going through, they also had plenty of tense and uncomfortable moments. I hope they are able to overcome whatever issues they may have because I really want them to stick together.

Walter Jury and Sarah Fine have a written a truly thrilling and suspenseful story that had me on the edge of my seat till the very end. I have no idea what's in store for Tate, his mother, and Christina in the next book, but I can't wait to find out. If you're looking for a smart, action-packed book, you need to get your hands on a copy of Scan!

Rating: 4 out of 5 stars

Bookittyblog and Joyousreads have also read and reviewed Scan (check out their blogs to read their reviews!). We want to give someone the chance to read Scan early too, so we're giving away an ARC! This giveaway is open internationally and ends April 26 at 11:59PM EST. Winner will have 48 hours to respond to the email before a new winner is chosen. To enter, fill out the Rafflecopter form below. Good luck!
a Rafflecopter giveaway

Cover Reveal + Giveaway: Mortal Enchantment by Stacey O'Neale

2014-04-15T00:00:00.000-04:00

Today, Stacey O'Neale and Phoenix Reign Publishing are revealing the cover for MORTAL ENCHANTMENT, releasing on May 20, 2014! Check out the awesome cover and enter to win a $50 Amazon or Barnes & Noble Gift Card! On to the reveal!

“Mortal Enchantment spins a unique twist on elemental mythology. This series is not to be missed.” -- Jennifer L. Armentrout, #1 New York Times Bestselling Author

In Kalin Matthew's world, elementals control the forces of nature. They are divided into four courts: air, woodland, fire, and water. At sixteen she will leave the life she's built with her mortal mother. Kalin will move to Avalon to rule with her father—the elemental king of the air court. Along the way, she's attacked by a fire court assassin and saved by Rowan, a swoon-worthy elemental with a questionable past.

Worst of all, she learns her father is missing.

To rescue him, Kalin will have to work with a judgmental council and a system of courts too busy accusing each other of deceit to actually be able to help her. But, they aren’t her biggest challenge. With the Midwinter’s Ball only five days away, Kalin must take over her father’s duties, which includes shifting control of the elements—power Kalin has yet to realize.

As Rowan attempts to train her, a war looms between the four courts. If Kalin fails, her father will die and the courts will fall, but the betrayal she’s about to uncover may cost her even more...

Add to your Goodreads TBR!

If you haven't read THE SHADOW PRINCE, you can download if NOW for FREE from Amazon and Barnes & Noble!

Every sacrifice has consequences.

Sixteen-year-old Rowan has spent most of his life living among the mortals—learning to control the element of fire, impatiently awaiting the day his vengeful mother, Queen Prisma, will abdicate her throne. When he finally returns to Avalon for his coronation, his mother insists he must first prove his loyalty to the court by completing a secret mission:

Kill Kalin, the half-human, half-elemental daughter of the air court king.

Willing to do anything to remove his mother from power, he agrees to sacrifice the halfling. He returns to the mortal world with his best friend, Marcus, determined to kill the princess. But as he devises a plan, he starts to question whether or not he's capable of completing such a heinous task. And what price he will pay if he refuses?

Available for FREE on Goodreads | Amazon | Barnes & Noble

Also available in PRINT on Amazon | Barnes & Noble

Stacey O'Neale lives in Annapolis, Maryland. When she's not writing, she spends her time fangirling over books, blogging, watching fantasy television shows, cheering for the Baltimore Ravens, and hanging out with her husband and daughter.
Her career in publishing started as a blogger-turned-publicist for two successful small publishers. Stacey writes young adult paranormal romance and adult science fiction romance. Her books always include swoon-worthy heroes, snarky heroines, and lots of kissing.

Stacey loves hearing from readers. Follow her on Twitter @StaceyONeale, look for her on Facebook, Pinterest, and GoodReads. You can also visit her blog at http://staceyoneale.com/.

Giveaway: Fill out the Rafflecopter form below to enter to win a $50 Amazon or Barnes & Noble gift card from the author!
a Rafflecopter giveaway

Interview with Walter Jury & Sarah Fine, co-authors of Scan

2014-04-11T00:00:00.000-04:00

Today I have an interview with Walter Jury and Sarah Fine, co-authors of the new YA alien thriller SCAN! Walter Jury is one of the producers of the Divergent movie, and Sarah Fine is the author of the Guards of the Shadowlands series and the upcoming Of Metal and Wishes.

I had the opportunity to read SCAN a few months ago, and it was an intense read! My review, along with an ARC giveaway, will be posted next week. So keep an eye out for that! In the meantime, I included the cover and the summary of SCAN below so that you can learn more about it before you read the interview.

Scan by Walter Jury & Sarah Fine

Release Date: May 1, 2014

Publisher: Putnam Juvenile

Links: Goodreads | Amazon | Barnes & Noble

Tate and his father don’t exactly get along. As Tate sees it, his father has unreasonably high expectations for Tate to be the best—at everything. Tate finally learns what he’s being prepared for when he steals one of his dad’s odd tech inventions and mercenaries ambush the school, killing his father in the process and sending Tate on the run from aliens who look just like humans.

All Tate knows--like how to make weapons out of oranges and lighter fluid--may not be enough to save him as he’s plunged into a secret inter-species conflict that’s been going on for centuries. Aided only by his girlfriend and his estranged mother, with powerful enemies closing in on all sides, Tate races to puzzle out the secret behind his father’s invention and why so many are willing to kill for it. A riveting, fast-paced adventure, Scan is a clever alien thriller with muscle and heart.

Walter Jury (left) and Sarah Fine (right).

Interview

I think author Morgan Rhodes's blurb of SCAN ("Nonstop, action-packed thrill ride") describes it perfectly. What did you enjoy the most about writing SCAN? Do you have a favorite scene?

(SPOILER ALERT) Walter's favorite scene is the final set piece. Without giving away any plot points, I will describe it as a major action sequence that involves Tate and his primary pursuer, along with a few other names in a very fun location that is described in detail, but allows for the imagination to run wild with the options as the scene progresses. With Tate's skills that we establish early on, we get a real sense of how high the stakes are and how far he can progress with his Dad's tutelage and influence guiding him.

While I was reading SCAN, I couldn't help but to be in awe of Tate and all his skills and knowledge. He was a brilliant kid. It made me wonder, how much and what kind of research went into SCAN? Was it intimidating to write about someone who pretty much excelled at everything?

Sarah consulted with a chemistry professor regarding many of the explosive chemical reactions in the book, and with one exception where she used major creative license, they're totally possible. But also, the Internet is a writer's friend. Look on Youtube for "Super Soaker flamethrower" or "nitrogen triiodide detonation" and there is a wealth of terrifying-yet-inspiring source material! DO NOT try that stuff at home PLEASE.

Tate's not the only the one with a family who is hiding big secrets about aliens, but unlike some of the others, Tate's parents never told him anything. How different would Tate be from the person he is today had his father (Fred) told him everything from the very beginning?

(SPOILER ALERT) Fred knew what he was doing. He wanted to see an advanced level of consistent maturity from Tate prior to giving him the keys to the castle of his family heritage. Consistent is the key word, because as we see adversity really fortified Tate's focus. So it was probably the right move at the time for Fred not to share the information with his son--had Fred have passed along the information, then maybe Fred would still be alive, but if Tate had demonstrated irresponsibility in a different manner, then it could have been very costly in some other manner. To answer the question directly, I believe Tate needed some real adversity to get him to a higher level of maturity--and I don't believe just his father's divulging of their family history would have been enough to change that particular aspect and weakness.

I know SCAN is Tate's story, but I love his girlfriend Christina too! She's awesome, and I kept wondering what she was thinking throughout the book. Will readers ever get a glimpse inside her head? Like maybe a novella or anything from her POV?

Great question. It is actually a great suggestion and certainly something that would be fun to write--the shootout in Act I especially, would be great to see from her perspective as it is devastating to both Tate and Christina, but maybe surreal to Christina as opposed to calamitously real to Tate. We will have to give you a special thanks if that ever becomes a novella or an ebook teaser!

I saw on Goodreads that the sequel to SCAN is called BURN. What can you tell us about it? Is this a duology or will there be more books after BURN?

BURN is currently in the works so while we are working hard to finish it, it would be premature to spoil any of the major plot points and sequences--but what we can say is: more secrets revealed, more MacGyver-like maneuvers, and definitely more action! As of now, we are looking at a duology, but we love these characters and the world-building that went around this mythology, so we certainly would be open to exploring more possibilities in the future!

Is there anything else about SCAN you would like to mention to readers?

SCAN is really a labor of love for us--it was a story that just flowed out of us very seamlessly because we so passionately wanted to look at the ramifications of a visit from aliens prior to the advent of modern technology. The characters definitely are inspired and we hope, creatively unique, to readers of all ages and all proficiencies in young adult literature. We hope everyone gets out of reading the novel the exact same feeling we had when writing it!

Finally, if you found out you were actually an alien, how would you react?

Walter: I would start researching right away in order to figure out how to get to outer space using one of those services like Elon Musk's SpaceX. At this stage, I know they are still experimental and very expensive, but it is a great excuse for me to book a costly trip to outer space and gives me the perfect retort when my wife asks what I'm doing--"Babe, I'm just planning a trip to visit some family!"

Sarah: It depends. Am I a member of the dominant species? If so: sigh of relief. Possible fist pump. If not: ACT CASUAL AND TRY TO BLEND IN.

Thank you to both Walter Jury and Sarah Fine for answering my questions (and Stacey from Penguin for asking me to interview them)! I loved the in-depth answers, and I'm even more eager to read BURN. And anything from Christina's perspective would be awesome, if a novella or teaser ever becomes possible! :D

Well, I hoped you all enjoyed the interview! Did it make you curious to read SCAN? If so, SCAN will be released May 1, 2014 by Putnam Juvenile, a Penguin imprint. So not too long from now! And as I mentioned before I will be posting my review and a giveaway next week. Stay tuned!

Review: Spiral by Mila Ferrera

2014-04-07T08:00:00.000-04:00

Title: Spiral
Author: Mila Ferrera
Pages: 204
Publisher: Mila Ferrera Books
Release Date: July 7, 2013

Nessa Cavanaugh, psychology student, knows how to stay on an even keel. Despite the urging of her mother and her academic advisor to get a life and have some fun, “all work and no play” sums up her plan to survive her grueling internship year at a children’s hospital. She doesn’t want to end up like her father, whose constant ups and downs broke her family, and avoiding unnecessary emotional entanglements is a must.

Then she (literally) runs into Dr. Aron Lindstrom in the middle of her disastrous first day on the job. The attraction is instant—and terrifying. Nessa knows she should stay away—especially when she finds out he has a reputation for being a player—but Aron is brilliant, intense, and as sexy as they come. When he challenges her to take a chance on him, her plans to stay focused on work start to crumble.

But what begins as passion takes on a dangerous edge, becoming an emotional roller coaster that’s frighteningly familiar. As things spiral out of control, Nessa must decide whether she should hold on for the ride or run … even if it means leaving her heart behind.

My Thoughts: Oh my god... This book. It broke my freaking heart!

From reading other reviews, I knew something major was going to happen in Spiral, but I had no idea the direction the story was going to take. It was totally unexpected. The reviews I read also mentioned how different this book was from most new adult books out there, and comparing it to all the ones I've read, I definitely have to agree. Spiral was unflinchingly raw and honest, and it makes me eager to read the rest of Mila Ferrera's novels.

The beginning started off a bit like other new adult stories. There's Nessa who has just moved to a new city for an internship at a children's hospital. She bumps into a gorgeous doctor named Aron who's intelligent and mysterious. Although she struggles with the idea of having a serious relationship after a tragic event years ago left her questioning her own mental state, she can't help but to be drawn to Aron. Nessa's fears, combined with the unfortunate rumors swirling around about Aron, complicates things and eventually distracts her from what's unraveling right before her eyes.

It took me a couple of chapters to warm up completely to Nessa and Aron. Nessa kept running away and using excuses, and I wondered when she'll start focusing on something other than work. And I have to admit I was suspicious of Aron's true intentions with Nessa. All of that made me question every little thing the characters did. It wasn't necessary though, and after awhile I relaxed and stopped overanalyzing things and was able to really appreciate Nessa and Aron and their journey. Not only that, once I noticed how the plot was moving in a direction that was darker and not the norm, I began enjoying the book even more and didn't want to stop reading!

I couldn't wait to see where Nessa's story went, no matter the outcome. I thought both her and Aron were amazing people, and I adored them so so much. I loved that they decided to take their relationship slow, even though their attraction was intense. Their romance was all-consuming and very steamy and hot (get your fan ready). I couldn't get enough! What made it even better was how well they complemented and looked out for one another. It was wonderful to see how much they cared and loved each other, especially when things took an unexpected turn. Neither were the same person by the end for various reasons, some good and some heartbreaking, but ultimately Nessa's connection with Aron made for a powerful and hopeful read.

Before I reached the end, I knew Spiral would become one of my favorite new adult novels ever. It was a refreshing and breathtakingly realistic read. It may have broken my heart, but I absolutely loved it and I'm so glad I have more books by Mila Ferrera to look forward to! If you start reading Spiral and assume it's going to follow the typical route, trust me. It will surprise you. Hopefully in a good way.

Rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars

Various ARCs Giveaway #14

2014-04-05T00:00:00.000-04:00

Altered by Gennifer Albin

45 Pounds (More or Less) by K.A. Barson

Margot by Jillian Cantor

The Enchanter Heir by Cinda Williams Chima

Mila 2.0 by Debra Driza

The Song of the Quarkbeast by Jasper Fforde

No One Elese Can Have You by Kathleen Hale

Tyger Tyger by Kersten Hamilton

False Sight by Dan Krokos

Tease by Amanda Maciel

Afterparty by Ann Redisch Stampler

A Midsummer Night's Scream by R.L. Stine

Ink by Amanda Sun

Relic by Heather Terrell

The Last Wild by Piers Torday

There will be ONE winner, and they will get to choose 2 of ARCs shown in the stacks above! This giveaway is US only and ends April 20. Just fill out the Rafflecopter form below to enter. Be sure to read my Giveaway Policy. :)
a Rafflecopter giveaway