the crj reviews

review - Escaping Reality

noreply@blogger.com (candice (thecrjreviews)) — Fri, 13 Sep 2013 04:00:00 +0000

	Escaping Reality by: Lisa Renee Jones \| Website \| Twitter Publication Date: July 22, 2013 Publisher: Julie Patra Publishing Series: The Secret Life of Amy Bensen #1 Format: eBook via Netgalley Page Count: 250 Genre: NA, Romance, Contemporary Get your copy: Amazon \| B&N

Summary: Infinite possibilities…. Infinite passion….. Infinite danger…. His touch spirals through me, warm and sweet, wicked and hot. I shouldn’t trust him. I shouldn’t tell him my secrets. But how do I not when he is the reason I breathe? He is what I need. At the young age of eighteen, tragedy and a dark secret force Lara to flee all she has known and loves to start a new life. Now years later, with a new identity as Amy, she’s finally dared to believe she is forgotten–even if she cannot forget. But just when she lets down her guard, the ghosts of her past are quick to punish her, forcing her back on the run. On a plane, struggling to face the devastation of losing everything again and starting over, Amy meets Liam Stone, a darkly entrancing recluse billionaire, who is also a brilliant, and famous, prodigy architect. A man who knows what he wants and goes after it. And what he wants is Amy. Refusing to take “no” as an answer, he sweeps her into a passionate affair, pushing her to her erotic limits. He wants to possess her. He makes her want to be possessed. Liam demands everything from her, accepting nothing less. But what if she is too devastated by tragedy to know when he wants more than she should give? And what if there is more to Liam than meets the eyes? Summary and cover image from goodreads. I received this book free from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. I received no compensation for my review.


Escaping Reality has been on the Amazon best sellers list for a while, so when I saw it on Netgalley, I quickly requested it. It was a little different than what I was expecting. The beginning and climatic ending were the strongest parts of the book. Being dropped right into danger on page one, had me flipping pages furiously. I wanted details to Amy's frantic flight from a possible attack, but I never really understood what she was running from, much less the odd relationship she had with her "handler." It is later revealed that her family had been killed in a house fire due to some possibly shady connections of her father and his job??? Still a little confused about the backstory and all! The few details surrounding Amy's past are vague, but I did enjoy trying to suss it all out. Let's take a moment to congratulate the winners of Insta-Love of the year! Not only of love, but there is also a case of insta-connection with another character. Between Liam (the future lover found at the airport gate) and Jared (the hunky and oh so familiar neighbor), I just couldn't help but think that Amy's feelings are too unbelievable. Two insta-guys in two days, really? The relationship between Amy and Liam did grow on me; he the overbearing billionaire that is finally allowing someone to break down his barriers. Amy also allows Liam into her life against what her head is telling her, providing her a human comfort she hasn't had in a long time. Liam has some interesting character traits/backstory. I really wanted to know more about him. I know the recluse billionaire has been done before, but I fell hard for this one. He was enigmatic, adding to the danger that Amy is in. She wants to trust him but knows that her involvement could bring him harm. Liam's friend/business associate, Derek, was an added bonus for me. Because for some reason, the ever-watchful and protective male friend always makes me swoon. Guy dynamics at their best! Amy's assumed identity from her handler had me scratching my head and questioning why she so blindly trust him. The apartment/job/boss setup seemed so convoluted that I had to suspend belief to make it through the whole situation. That is until things start to unravel…and get interesting. This building confusion and slipping of the truth had me totally hooked at the end. As referenced, the middle sort of lagged in that there were few answers to that initial jolt of suspense and action. There was something about the writing that was off putting as well. It seemed novice. There were also a couple of descriptive phrases that were overused, for instance, every touch from Liam was "like a branding." I loved that line the first time I read it, but after the sixth or seventh it lost its touch. This didn't detract from the story, but it could have taken it to another level. Overall an enjoyable read that stood out with its unique suspense angle. And for $.99, Escaping Reality is not be be missed. Plus, there is one awesome cliffhanger that will have you holding your breath. At least until October, when the sequel, Infinite Possibilities, is released.

What I like is him bare-chested and relaxed in his pajama bottoms, with sexy, mussed-up morning hair. And me, in his shirt, with his scent teasing my nostrils. I have never worn a man's shirt and that somehow makes wearing his shirt all the more intimate. Amy \| page 160 This was my Swoon Thursday last week, and I still love this quote!
Have you read Escaping Reality? What did you think?

review - The Edge of Never

noreply@blogger.com (candice (thecrjreviews)) — Tue, 10 Sep 2013 04:00:00 +0000

	The Edge of Never by: J.A. Redmerski \| Website \| Twitter Publication Date: November 15, 2013 Series: The Edge of Never #1 Format: eBook via Netgalley Page Count: 426 Genre: NA, Contemporary, Romance Get your copy: Amazon \| B&N

Summary: Twenty-year-old Camryn Bennett had always been one to think out-of-the-box, who knew she wanted something more in life than following the same repetitive patterns and growing old with the same repetitive life story. And she thought that her life was going in the right direction until everything fell apart. Determined not to dwell on the negative and push forward, Camryn is set to move in with her best friend and plans to start a new job. But after an unexpected night at the hottest club in downtown North Carolina, she makes the ultimate decision to leave the only life she’s ever known, far behind. With a purse, a cell phone and a small bag with a few necessities, Camryn, with absolutely no direction or purpose boards a Greyhound bus alone and sets out to find herself. What she finds is a guy named Andrew Parrish, someone not so very different from her and who harbors his own dark secrets. But Camryn swore never to let down her walls again. And she vowed never to fall in love. But with Andrew, Camryn finds herself doing a lot of things she never thought she’d do. He shows her what it’s really like to live out-of-the-box and to give in to her deepest, darkest desires. On their sporadic road-trip he becomes the center of her exciting and daring new life, pulling love and lust and emotion out of her in ways she never imagined possible. But will Andrew’s dark secret push them inseparably together, or tear them completely apart? Due to sexual content and language, this book is recommended for 17+ New Adult Fiction Summary and cover image from goodreads. I received this book free from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. I received no compensation for my review.


Cam and Andrew's chance meeting on a bus-trip starts these two on an amazing journey, entwining their lives and dreams. Laced with romance and heartbreak, The Edge of Never was a home run in the sea of New Adult. Having run Division I XC and Track, I am intimately familiar with buses; it was our modus transportius every weekend for four years going to meets. I completely sympathized with the uncomfortable seats and all the sights and sounds of bus travel. Jessica nailed the bus description perfectly. Even the Waffle House visit had me reminiscing about college (although Waffle House menus don't fold, small details!). I actually highlighted a Waffle House quote that just spoke to the traveler in me. The traveling/road trip aspect of this book correlated with Cam's journey and growth as a person. She's traversing across the nation, putting miles between her old life and the life she wants. And there's nothing better than spending hours in a car with a hot guy and endless, easy conversation. Cam's friend, Nat, almost made me question continuing this book, but so glad I did. The first five chapters or so, I was ready to dump Nat since Cam wouldn't. The partying, pushy best friend is one trope I am completely over. Even having grown up together, I really think these two personalities would have parted ways; I guess Cam's situation kept Nat around and thinking that she would snap out of her funk. Nat didn't realize that events had ultimately changed Cam. By the end, my view on Nat had become more forgiving; true friendship is called upon and Nat delivers. The connection between Cam and Andrew starts off as an unwelcomed distraction for Cam and a unfightable need to protect for Andrew. Seeing Cam's walls fall down when she was with Andrew was heartwarming. She might have given up on finding a relationship, but her dissuasion against love really just stemmed from not finding her other half. Andrew is just that person; the one to make her want to open up and tell her secrets. He has a very intuitive personality, knowing that Cam has some important truths to tell, both to herself and him. He provided the right amount of push Cam needed. Cam's presence during Andrew's emotionally rough time was touching. The twist totally kicked me in the gut. Sure I knew Andrew was holding back something, but I just didn't see that one coming until we met his mother. The epilogue seemed a bit rushed but did leave the characters in a settled situation. I am glad I started The Edge of Never knowing that there was a sequel, therefore the epilogue was just an appetizer for what's to come. Can I fangirl about the cover for a moment? It captures Cam perfectly. I also love Jessica Redmerski's (who I happen to live in the same metro area as, awesome right?) Pintrest board for The Edge of Never. The next installment for Cam and Andrew, The Edge of Always, drops November 5th, 2013. And Andrew…You own me!

I love the smell of Waffle House; it's the smell of freedom, being on the open road and knowing that ninety percent of the people eating with you are also on that road. Andrew \| page 141 She got pissed when I accused her of having Bieber Fever (it pisses me off that I even know what the fuck that means--I blame that on society)… Andrew \| page 65
Have you read The Edge of Never or any other good New Adult books lately?

review - Requiem

noreply@blogger.com (candice (thecrjreviews)) — Sun, 08 Sep 2013 04:00:00 +0000

	Requiem by: Lauren Oliver \| Website \| Twitter Publication Date: March 5, 2013 Publisher: HarperCollins Children's Books Series: Delirium #3 Format: Hardback Page Count: 391 Genre: YA, Dystopian Get your copy: Amazon \| B&N

Summary: They have tried to squeeze us out, to stamp us into the past. But we are still here. And there are more of us every day. Now an active member of the resistance, Lena has been transformed. The nascent rebellion that was under way in Pandemonium has ignited into an all-out revolution in Requiem, and Lena is at the center of the fight. After rescuing Julian from a death sentence, Lena and her friends fled to the Wilds. But the Wilds are no longer a safe haven—pockets of rebellion have opened throughout the country, and the government cannot deny the existence of Invalids. Regulators now infiltrate the borderlands to stamp out the rebels, and as Lena navigates the increasingly dangerous terrain, her best friend, Hana, lives a safe, loveless life in Portland as the fiancée of the young mayor. Maybe we are driven crazy by our feelings. Maybe love is a disease, and we would be better off without it. But we have chosen a different road. And in the end, that is the point of escaping the cure: We are free to choose. We are even free to choose the wrong thing. Requiem is told from both Lena’s and Hana’s points of view. The two girls live side by side in a world that divides them until, at last, their stories converge. Summary and cover image from goodreads.


While Delirium and even Pandemonium had my complete attention, Requiem seemed to lack that same spark that initially captured me. There were some great scenes, but as a whole it was not what I was expecting. Part of this could have been to the additional POV, Hana, Lena's best friend. To all of a sudden have Hana own half the final book, left Lena's story reduced. This was most noticeable in her interactions with Julian and/or Alex, in that they were shortened to one or two paragraphs and contained the following paraphrased lines, "Julian and I are now back to normal." What? Can you explain normal? We didn't get to see any growth or real give and take in Lena's relationships. Very frustrating! The story progressed and decisions were made, but the love was just not there. It almost seemed that Lena had truly given everything to the resistance and that there were no spare emotions available to be freely given elsewhere. The story was so concerned with getting to the end that the LOVE that started this whole revolution seemed abandoned. Ironically enough, the epic conclusion and rebel resistance were the strongest parts in the final book. In the end, I was indifferent (leaning on the more accepting-side) of the conclusion and Lena's choices, but I just don't know how Lena got there.
Have you read the Delirium series? What did you think of the final book? Disappointed? Happy?

review - Siege and Storm

noreply@blogger.com (candice (thecrjreviews)) — Fri, 06 Sep 2013 04:00:00 +0000

	Siege and Storm by: Leigh Bardugo \| Website \| Twitter Publication Date: June 4, 2013 Publisher: Henry Holt and Co. Series: The Grisha #2 Format: Hardback Page Count: 435 Genre: YA, Fantasy Get your copy: Amazon \| B&N

Summary: Darkness never dies. Hunted across the True Sea, haunted by the lives she took on the Fold, Alina must try to make a life with Mal in an unfamiliar land. She finds starting new is not easy while keeping her identity as the Sun Summoner a secret. She can’t outrun her past or her destiny for long. The Darkling has emerged from the Shadow Fold with a terrifying new power and a dangerous plan that will test the very boundaries of the natural world. With the help of a notorious privateer, Alina returns to the country she abandoned, determined to fight the forces gathering against Ravka. But as her power grows, Alina slips deeper into the Darkling’s game of forbidden magic, and farther away from Mal. Somehow, she will have to choose between her country, her power, and the love she always thought would guide her--or risk losing everything to the oncoming storm. Summary and cover image from goodreads.


This was one my most wanted books of the summer, and it did not disappoint! Siege and Storm opens with Alina and Mal having sorted through their Shadow and Bone issues (per se) and being on the run from the Darkling. Thus begins the exciting sequel that packs in the action and romance. Siege and Storm also introduces the awesome privateer, Sturmhond. One moment while I restart my heart! He is beyond amazing. Alina's journey to control the power she wields becomes increasingly perilous for both her and Mal. She is definitely suffering from some identity issues and her growing hunger for power, a-la sun-summoning. All the while, she is navigating the political world, royal marriage proposals, and religious followings in her name. There are many great twists in Siege and Storm. Alina's final battle waits for readers in Ruin and Rising, and I can't help but think that there is a lot more to Mal and his "connection" to Alina.
Got an itch for some good fantasy? Give The Grisha series a try; you won't be disappointed!

waiting on wednesday | 12 - The Offering

noreply@blogger.com (candice (thecrjreviews)) — Wed, 04 Sep 2013 04:00:00 +0000


Waiting on Wednesday is a weekly meme hosted by Breaking the Spine that spotlights upcoming releases that we can't wait to get in our hands.
	The Offering by: Kimberly Derting \| Website \| Twitter Publication Date: January 7, 2014 Publisher: Margaret K. McElderry (S&S) Series: The Pledge #3
Summary: True love—and world war—is at stake in the conclusion to The Pledge trilogy, a dark and romantic blend of dystopia and fantasy. Charlie, otherwise known as Queen Charlaina of Ludania, has become comfortable as a leader and a ruler. She’s done admirable work to restore Ludania’s broken communications systems with other Queendoms, and she’s mastered the art of ignoring Sabara, the evil former queen whose Essence is alive within Charlie. Or so she thinks. When the negotiation of a peace agreement with the Queendom of Astonia goes awry, Charlie receives a brutal message that threatens Ludania, and it seems her only option is to sacrifice herself in exchange for Ludanian freedom. But things aren’t always as they seem. Charlie is walking into a trap—one set by Sabara, who is determined to reclaim the Queendoms at any cost. Summary and cover image from goodreads.

Why the WOW: This is one series I think needs more attention. I fell in love with The Pledge, and the Essence was a solid sequel. Very excited to see how Charlie leads her kingdom in this final book. I just noticed the cover release this past week, could have happened sooner but saw it in my Goodreads list. The series looks good together, and the full reveal of Charlie's profile very symbolic I think!

What are you waiting for?

review - Redesigned

noreply@blogger.com (candice (thecrjreviews)) — Tue, 03 Sep 2013 04:00:00 +0000

	Redesigned by: Denise Grover Swank \| Website \| Twitter Publication Date: June 10, 2013 Publisher: Createspace Series: Off the Subject #2 Format: eBook Page Count: 294 Genre: NA, Contemporary, Romance Get your copy: Amazon \| B&N

Summary: While fashion design major Caroline Hunter may have been born economically unlucky, in college, she’s been lucky in love. Until her senior year at Southern University. She’s gone from a serious long term boyfriend to a string of crappy dates. Then she meets mathematics grad student Reed Pendergraft. Reed is everything she’s not looking for. Serious. Headed for a low paying university job. Boring. Caroline spent the first eighteen years of her life wondering where her next meal was coming from. She sure wasn’t getting trapped in that life again with a man living on a professor’s salary. An encounter with Reed in a club proves she might have pegged him wrong. He brings out a lusty side she never knew she had. But just when she’s about to give in to her hormones, Reed makes a fool out of her. When she shows up for the first committee meeting for Southern University’s Fall fashion show, a fundraiser for underprivileged kids, Caroline’s horrified to discover the insufferable Reed is the committee chairman. While she refuses to tolerate his totalitarian rule of the committee, she’s not sure she’ll survive the month with her heart—and her pride—intact. Just when she thinks she has everything figured out, she finds that her entire life has been redesigned, thanks to Reed Pendergraft. Summary and cover image from goodreads.


Redesigned is the second book in the Off the Subject series and follows Caroline, Scarlet's friend and former roommate from Aftermath (my review). Caroline grew up with Scarlet in their small, impoverished Tennessee town; their move to college provided them both with the opportunity to recast themselves without the stigma of their pasts. Caroline's backstory is fully fleshed out in Redesigned; there is so much more depth to her, including her motivations and insecurities. But I just did not connect with her as much as I did with Scarlet. It might be that her story revolved around more social issues (versus Scarlet's socially awkward personality), giving Redesigned a bit of a preachy feel (Change a life today, Volunteer! The more you know! and all that). I can see how Caroline was affected by the fundraiser, I just wasn't expecting the poverty message. Reed was hard to wrap my head around. He had all the required traits for a swoon-worthy hero, but just fell a little flat. I really liked that he was the socially awkward one of the relationship, but not having his POV it just came across as jerky (unlike with Scarlet). He was lacking in the grand-gestures and apparent adoration of Caroline. I wanted to like him more but couldn't. Lexi is one secondary character with a little umph! I wanted to read more of her story. How she brought out Reed's protective-brother side, which was one of the few dimensions we did see of Reed. Scarlet and Tucker return and have some great scenes. Tucker was completely swoony in his protection of Caroline. He treats her like a sister and is there when she needed a little back-up. While Redesigned didn't completely own me like Aftermath, I am still very into this series and Denise Swank's writing. Interested in how the series began, my review of After Math. Looking forward to book #3, Business as Usual, out later this year.
Have you read any of the Off the Subject series? What did you think?

update | new adult overload

noreply@blogger.com (candice (thecrjreviews)) — Mon, 02 Sep 2013 04:00:00 +0000

My brain is in the gutter! Is it just me or does that line from David Guetta song "Play Hard" have a New Adult vibe? I hear it and automatically hear it being said by a NA guy. And I love it all that much more! I have been on a new adult kick, no thanks to Amazon, their $0.99 - $2.99 prices, and my Kindle app that is with me everywhere. I always get Amazon gift cards from my credit card reward points, and having a continuous balance on my Amazon account is turning out to be dangerous! Trying to throw my YA books back into the tbr pile. Very excited about Deception (Defiance #2) and Crown of Midnight (Throne of Glass #2) that came out this week.

So, I've been a little absent lately from the blog. I recently bought an old house (circa 1950). My spare time has been filled with (major) demolition and renovation. I'm really looking forward to the finished project, hopefully moving in around November. I do keep my Instagram updated with all the latest renovation photos, if interested. Secondly, at work I'm coming off a brand-new/relauched webstore. So, while I was reading in this little hiatus, the thought of sitting down in front of a computer for another second had me fit to be tied. But the site is pretty much up and running smoothly, and I'm back to blogging!

Stay tuned for some great upcoming YA and NA book reviews!

review - Quintana of Charyn

noreply@blogger.com (candice (thecrjreviews)) — Sun, 01 Sep 2013 04:00:00 +0000

	Quintana of Charyn by: Melina Marchetta \| Website \| Twitter Publication Date: April 23, 2013 Publisher: Candlewick Press Series: The Lumatere Chronicles #3 Format: Hardback Page Count: 516 Genre: YA, High Fantasy Get your copy: Amazon \| B&N

Summary: There's a babe in my belly that whispers the valley, Froi. I follow the whispers and come to the road . . . Separated from the girl he loves and has sworn to protect, Froi must travel through Charyn to search for Quintana, the mother of Charyn's unborn king, and protect her against those who will do anything to gain power. But what happens when loyalty to family and country conflict? When the forces marshalled in Charyn's war gather and threaten to involve the whole of the land, including Lumatere, only Froi can set things right, with the help of those he loves. Summary and cover image from goodreads.


The bittersweet finality of a series-ending book. Melina Marchetta blew this one out of the water. There were so many characters and plot points to cover but none were neglected. Finishing the last page, I was definitely satisfied and fully content with where the characters were and their hopeful futures. Melina wrote a full-fledged epilogue; other authors take note! Lucian and Phaedra became one of my favorite story lines; their struggle to honor their respective kingdoms but stay true to the path their hearts were leading them. Ugh, the feelings! Quintana's journey and growth was amazing, considering her start in Froi of the Exiles. While there was hope in the end, Melina does not spare readers of heartbreak and lose. Series-wise, I was surprised by how much Froi's story became integral to the land of Skuldenore. Seems like Isoboe and Finnikin were just a device to introduce Froi. I wouldn't have complained if there had been more of their story in the final book, but this did not affect my love for this series. This sweeping and detailed fantasy series has permanently left its mark on my heart!
Have you read any of The Lumatere Chronicles? Fantasy at its highest? Yes, I believe so!

review - After Math

noreply@blogger.com (candice (thecrjreviews)) — Fri, 30 Aug 2013 13:00:00 +0000

	After Math by: Denise Grover Swank \| Website \| Twitter Publication Date: March 12, 2013 Publisher: Createspace Series: Off the Subject #1 Format: eBook Page Count: 246 Genre: NA, Contemporary Romance Get your copy: Amazon \| B&N

Summary: Scarlett Goodwin’s world is divided into Before and After. Before she agreed to tutor Tucker price, college junior Scarlett was introvert, struggling with her social anxiety and determined to not end up living in a trailer park like her mother and her younger sister. A mathematics major, she goes to her classes, to her job in the tutoring lab, and then hides in the apartment she shares with her friend, Caroline. After junior Tucker Price, Southern University’s star soccer player enters the equation, her carefully plotted life is thrown off its axis. Tucker’s failing his required College Algebra class. With his eligibility is at risk, the university chancellor dangles an expensive piece of computer software for the math department if Scarlett agrees to privately tutor him. Tucker’s bad boy, womanizer reputation makes Scarlett wary of any contact, let alone spending several hours a week in close proximity. But from her first encounter, she realizes Tucker isn’t the person everyone else sees. He carries a mountain of secrets which she suspects hold the reason to his self-destructive behavior. But the deeper she delves into the cause of his pain, the deeper she gets sucked into his chaos. Will Scarlett find the happiness she’s looking for, or will she be caught in Tucker’s aftermath? Summary and cover image from goodreads.


Never have I read a book that I so connected with, as much as Aftermath. And to think it was a whim purchase after seeing a quick blog post with the words "math nerd." I started Aftermath that night and stayed up way too late finishing it. RELATABLE HEROINE Scarlet is the closest book version of me I've ever found, aside from her background. The studious, 4.0 GPA introvert, who's wary of crowds and prefers her comfortable sanctuary that is her room/apartment. She spoke to me from page one; I understood how she felt and all of her motives. Some would ask why read about what you already know, instead of the adventurous heroine who's afraid of nothing? While those can provide some escape, it was nice to read something relatable. COLLEGE All the New Adult books are taking place in college, and Denise Swank writes one of the most realistic, true-to-life college settings, everything from classes, university funding, study labs, student fitness centers, and NCAA athletes (having been one myself). Aftermath was kind of surreal, like my college years had been brought to life on the page. And for me it was these little details that really pushed Aftermath to the next level in New Adult. College wasn't presented in this Baz Luhrmann's The Great Gatsby way with all the parties and days were students don't study. The characters actually went to a college sporting event; hello real college experience! TUCKER Be still my heart! The understanding of this man is mind-blowingly sweet. He senses Scarlet's apprehension and works so hard to make her comfortable, building their relationship from the very smallest nugget of friendship. I love that the infernal friend-zone wall was smashed in this book. In fact, Scarlet almost required the friendship prior to her heart even thinking about any more. No insta-love here, which is much appreciated. Sometimes people need to know a person's character before they surrender their heart. Very glad Tucker stuck with Scarlet and let her warm-up to him and the idea of them. Just another shoutout for how much I loved that Tucker was a college athlete. Him running to Scarlet's apartment made my heart pitter-patter. I highly recommend Aftermath to anyone interested in a slow-burning romance and a realistic New Adult novel, where partying is not the entire college experience!
Have you read After Math? What did you think?

swoon thursday | 5 - Escaping Reality

noreply@blogger.com (candice (thecrjreviews)) — Thu, 29 Aug 2013 02:52:00 +0000


Swoon Thursday is a weekly meme hosted by YA Bound to share your swoon-inducing bookish moments. Also, shout it out on Twitter with the hashtag #YABound.
	Escaping Reality by: Lisa Renee Jones \| Website \| Twitter Series: The Secret Life of Amy Bensen #1 Page: 160 What I like is him bare-chested and relaxed in his pajama bottoms, with sexy, mussed-up morning hair. And me, in his shirt, with his scent teasing my nostrils. I have never worn a man's shirt and that somehow makes wearing his shirt all the more intimate.
My heart kind of melted when I read that passage. So domestic and normally sweet, but sexy at the same time.
Have you read a great swoony scene lately? Let me know below!

swoon thursday | 4 - Dark Triumph

noreply@blogger.com (candice (thecrjreviews)) — Thu, 04 Jul 2013 04:00:00 +0000


Swoon Thursday is a weekly meme hosted by YA Bound to share your swoon-inducing bookish moments. Also, shout it out on Twitter with the hashtag #YABound.
	Dark Triumph by: R. L. LaFevers \| Website \| Twitter Series: His Fair Assassin #2 Page: 164 Then d'Albret's men are hard upon us. Resigned, Beast draws the sword from his back with his right hand while his left closes around the handle of the ax. "I will not let them take you alive." Of all the things he could have said, that is the one thing that comforts me the most. "Nor I you," I say around a strange lump that has formed in my throat.
Kind of a non-traditional swoon.One of those that needs the story leading up to it, but I immediately noted the page number when I read Beast's line. Nothing quite like a protective knight!
For those wanting a little more... Page: 318 He places me on the ground but does not remove his arms. Instead, he leans in and sets his mouth to mine. It is a lusty kiss, full of joy and triumph and victory. But after a moment, triumph gives way to something else. Something wonderous and fragile. Beast's hands slide up my waist, firm and solid at my back, a buttress that will not give way, no matter what comes.
Have you read a great swoony scene lately? Let me know below!

waiting on wednesday | 11 - The Transfer

noreply@blogger.com (candice (thecrjreviews)) — Wed, 03 Jul 2013 04:00:00 +0000


Waiting on Wednesday is a weekly meme hosted by Breaking the Spine that spotlights upcoming releases that we can't wait to get in our hands.
Image from EW Image Credit: Jaap Buitendijk	The Transfer: A Divergent Story by: Veronica Roth \| Website \| Twitter Publication Date: September 24, 2013 Publisher: Katherine Tegen Books Series: Divergent #0.1
Summary: More Four! Fans of the Divergent series by #1 New York Times bestselling author Veronica Roth will be thrilled by "The Transfer," the first of four new short stories told from Four’s perspective. Each brief story explores the world of the Divergent series through the eyes of the mysterious but charismatic Tobias Eaton, revealing previously unknown facets of his personality, backstory, and relationships. Summary from goodreads.

Why the WOW: When I first read about these e-novellas on Veronica Roth's blog, I think there might have been a fist pump, followed by goofy smiling. I am beyond excited to read about Four! Last year's Free Four was a little nugget of Four, and I can't wait for more of his voice, history, and thoughts. There will be four e-novellas after its all said and done. The Transfer, The Initiate, The Son, and The Traitor. Each are listed as 30 pages each, but what I'm assuming is a paperback onmibus of all four (Four: A Divergent Story Collection, Feb. 11, 2014) is listed as having 208 pages? I don't know if my math skills are working properly. (30 x 4 = 208 ???) More bonus material? Yes, please! In other Divergent news…Have you guys seen the stills from the movie? And the first footage will be shown at Comic Con. Can't wait for this movie!
What are you waiting for?

books signings - fierce reads recap | 2

noreply@blogger.com (candice (thecrjreviews)) — Wed, 03 Jul 2013 01:40:00 +0000

This is a little late, but I still wanted to share the awesome road trip to the Fierce Reads event in Memphis, TN back in June. Side note: The blog has been a little neglected due to real life getting a little hectic. New website launch at work, and getting on the computer at home just didn't sound fun. And, I'm in the process of buying a house, a fixer-upper at that. I lovingly refer to it as my HGTV house. So, a lot of work ahead of me.

Back to the event, it was held by The Booksellers at Laurelwood. This was the second time I've gone to an event there, and the staff always does a great job with the moderators and refreshments. Books, authors, and cupcakes! Great bookstore to visit if you ever find yourself in Memphis.

Leigh Bardugo, Anna Banks, Emmy Laybourne, and Jessica Brody were all there promoting their latest books. While I had only read the Grisha books and Of Poseidon, all the authors were interesting to listen to. Emmy revealed that she has some bizarre first date questions that deal with survival scenarios. Imagine a first date asking you, if a major disaster happens how would you survive? That is beyond hilarious, but I bet it shed some light on the date's personality. Also according to Jessica, if you read her book, you'll apparently never be able to passively walk through a Target, Sam's, or Costco.

Unremembered sounds intriguing, reminded me slightly of Lost, one of my all time favorite TV shows, with the twists of memory loss and supernatural powers. But couldn't you possibly see the Lost writers eventually adding these elements if the seasons went any further? Yes. Picked up the first chapters in printed form, which was the first time I had ever seen this promo tool. Ingenious!

Now for my true drawl to the event, Leigh Bardugo and the Grisha Trilogy. For a week, I was fingerling about Siege and Storm and getting to hear Leigh speak. She did not disappoint, there was great insight to the characters and story. One question and answer that nearly had me rolling on the floor, Anything funny surrounding your book or tour? Leigh stated that she had been on Tumbler a lot lately and had come across some smutty fanfic, eliciting the response of "Uoh, my babies!"

The event was well-organized and definitely worth the drive over. Great questions by the audience (the linchpin to any event, in my opinion). All the authors were having fun and enjoying the tour, very visible from the audience. Thanks to MacMillian and Fierce Reads (who by the way has the best sway ever! Posters, bookmarks, a Shadow and Bone button "Whatever. Summon This.", and a bag!)

swoon thursday | 3 - Siege and Storm

noreply@blogger.com (candice (thecrjreviews)) — Thu, 13 Jun 2013 02:34:00 +0000


Swoon Thursday is a weekly meme hosted by YA Bound to share your swoon-inducing bookish moments. Also, shout it out on Twitter with the hashtag #YABound.
	Siege and Storm by: Leigh Bardugo \| Website \| Twitter Series: The Grisha #2 Page: 200 I sensed hunger in the hard slant of his mouth, an unfamiliar edge to his need that sent restless sparks burning through me. I came up on my toes, circling my arms around his neck, feeling the length of my body melt into his. He had a soldier’s strength, and I felt it in the hard bands of his arms, the pressure of his fingers as his fist bunched in the silk at the small of my back and he drew me against him. There was something fierce and almost desperate in the way he held me, as if he could not have me close enough.
Page: 11 - And a second, because I couldn't resist. “Thanks,” I mumbled as we crossed the square, heading toward our boardinghouse. “For what?” I rolled my eyes. “For defending my honor, you dullard.” He yanked me beneath a shadowed awning. I had a moment’s panic when I thought he’d spotted trouble, but then his arms were around me and his lips were pressed to mine. When he finally drew back, my cheeks were warm and my legs had gone wobbly. “Just to be clear,” he said, “I’m not really interested in defending your honor.”
Sometimes its just the banter between these characters that really gets me. Mal and Alina can turn witty banter into some swoony moments. Its almost a precursor, and I love those back-and-forths! Have you read a great swoony scene lately? Let me know!

waiting on wednesday | 10 - Infinite

noreply@blogger.com (candice (thecrjreviews)) — Wed, 12 Jun 2013 04:07:00 +0000


Waiting on Wednesday is a weekly meme hosted by Breaking the Spine that spotlights upcoming releases that we can't wait to get in our hands.
	Infinite by: Jodi Meadows \| Website \| Twitter Publication Date: January 28, 2014 Publisher: Katherine Tegen Books Series: Newsoul #3
Summary: DESTRUCTION The Year of Souls begins with an earthquake—an alarming rumble from deep within the earth—and it’s only the first of greater dangers to come. The Range caldera is preparing to erupt. Ana knows that as Soul Night approaches, everything near Heart will be at risk. FLIGHT Ana’s exile is frightening, but it may also be fortuitous, especially if she can convince her friends to flee Heart and Range with her. They’ll go north, seeking answers and allies to stop Janan’s ascension. And with any luck, the newsouls will be safe from harm’s reach. CHOICE The oldsouls might have forgotten the choice they made to give themselves limitless lifetimes, but Ana knows the true cost of reincarnation. What she doesn’t know is whether she’ll have the chance to finish this one sweet life with Sam, especially if she returns to Heart to stop Janan once and for all. With gorgeous romance and thrilling action, the final book in the Incarnate trilogy offers a brilliant conclusion to the compelling questions of this fascinating world, where one new girl is the key to the lives of millions. Summary and cover images from goodreads.

Why the WOW: So apparently this cover was release last week. I randomly saw it on my Goodreads awaiting release bookshelf. Don't you love when they change from the tan gradient box with just a title to something really pretty. This is by far my favorite cover of the trilogy. Something about the second one, Asunder, just screamed 1980's. But the feathers are awesome and that touch of fire that I missed the first time around. Shivers! Story-wise, I am so ready to dig into this final book of the trilogy. There are a lot of answers to be revealed, plus Ana and Sam's story is heart-wrenchingly good. In case you missed my review for Asunder.

What are you waiting for?

review - Callum & Harper

noreply@blogger.com (candice (thecrjreviews)) — Wed, 29 May 2013 04:05:00 +0000

	Callum & Harper by: Fisher Amelie \| Website \| Twitter Publication Date: December 24, 2011 Publisher: Self-Published Series: The Sleepless Series #1 Format: eBook Page Count: 256 Genre: YA, Contemporary Romance Get your copy: Amazon \| B&N

Summary: Life sucks for orphans Callum Tate and Harper Bailey. Kicked out of their foster homes because they suffer the 'eighteen disease' with nothing but a hundred dollar check from the government and a pat on the back, they're forced to rely on a system that failed them miserably. So they sit. They sit inside Social Services, waiting for their social workers to call their names and offer them the miracle they know will never come but they sit anyway because they have nowhere else to go, no other options on their very literal and figurative empty plates. But as they sit, they notice the other. Although captivated, they each come to the conclusion that life is complicated enough without throwing in a boiling tension that can't ever be acted upon because they're both too busy thinking about where their next meal will come from but when their names are called and both are placed on a year long waiting list for permanent housing, suddenly relying on each other seems like a very viable plan B. And, oh, how lovely Plan B's can be. Well, except for the psycho from Harper's past that haunts her and, oh, yeah, there's the little issue that neither of them knows they're in love with the other. Needless to say, Callum & Harper's life just got a bit more complicated. “One day, you and I are gonna’ wake up and be alright. Maybe not today, maybe not tomorrow but one day. One day. I promise you.” - Callum Tate Summary and cover image from goodreads.


This story reminds me of Maslow's hierarchy of needs, thank you freshman business! Callum and Harper are trying to meet their basic needs of shelter and food. Once they feel comfortable with these, their hearts and minds were ready for safety they found in each others' presence. Belonging followed close behind for Harper, in that she was accepted by Callum's group of friends. Friends who really provided depth to the story, because they were a little older and more mature. This allowed Callum and Harper to lean on them and that support seem believable. They also saw the undeniable attraction between Callum and Harper, making them (and us) more willing to root for the young couple. And boy did these two have some obstacles to overcome. Harper really had a split personality, on one hand she gets moved around to multiple foster families due to her clashing personality (and some extenuating circumstances). But at her core she is a not-so-street-smart, naive girl, almost to the point of being dangerous. The very calm, too calm, way she handles graduating out of the system, lacked the listlessness most would feel. I realize Callum provided a lot of support and comfort, but I know I would have had at one emotional breakdown or moment of feeling utterly alone. For being these children of the foster care system and seeing a lot more than their most their age, Callum and Harper talk like they stepped out of a Leave it to Beaver episode. I found myself adding my own dialogue of "Gee wiz!" and "Golly!" It just did not fit with the story and the characters' backgrounds. I also felt that there were some unreasonably contrived scenarios (Hello, full scholarship to NYU at the last minute???) But I let them go; suspend reality and all that. As for the romance, talk about misunderstandings and failures to lay your emotions all on the line. I just wanted to shake these two; someone really needed to buck up some courage and show their cards. They came so close, so many times. There's a rooftop scene where I thought, this has to be it, but no! In the end, Callum and Harper really were perfect for each other. Their relationship might have started out as one of convenience but became so much more, one filled with love and undying devotion to each other and how their unspoken love has only grown into something deeper that that first shared glance across an office waiting room. Overall while the story did not blow me away, it was an enjoyable read that had its moments. The saving grace was plot after the time jump, where we get to see how Callum and Harper are living with their well-crafted lies. The threat of Harper's past life also added that extra drama, taking the plot to the next level. The final climatic scenes were heart-pounding and had serious consequences. Over looking the rocky start, I was enthralled by Callum and Harper's story of love and overcoming their painful pasts.
Did you read Callum & Harper? What did you think?

waiting on wednesday | 9 - Losing Hope

noreply@blogger.com (candice (thecrjreviews)) — Wed, 29 May 2013 04:00:00 +0000


Waiting on Wednesday is a weekly meme hosted by Breaking the Spine that spotlights upcoming releases that we can't wait to get in our hands.
	Losing Hope by: Colleen Hoover \| Website \| Twitter Publication Date: July 9, 2013 Publisher: Atria Books Series: Hopeless #2 Page Count: 256
Summary: In the follow-up to Colleen Hoover’s #1 New York Times bestseller Hopeless, the charming and irresistible Dean Holder tells the passionate story that has melted thousands of hearts. In Hopeless, Sky left no secret unearthed, no feeling unshared, and no memory forgotten, but Holder’s past remained a mystery. Still haunted by the little girl he let walk away, Holder has spent his entire life searching for her in an attempt to finally rid himself of the crushing guilt he has felt for years. But he could not have anticipated that the moment they reconnect, even greater remorse would overwhelm him… Sometimes in life, if we wish to move forward, we must first dig deep into our past and make amends. In Losing Hope, bestselling author Colleen Hoover reveals what was going on inside Holder’s head during all those hopeless moments—and whether he can gain the peace he desperately needs. Summary and cover image from goodreads.

Why the WOW: Dean Holder's POV, one moment while my heart restarts. He'll have yours all aflutter, too; trust me! I was entirely captivated by Hopeless back in December 2012; here is my short gushing (um review) I quickly added to goodreads. I LIVE this book, no make that Love this book! Colleen Hoover has had three slam dunks this year, Slammed, Point of Retreat, and Hopeless. Each one was utterly all-consuming. The writing is very real and easy to lose yourself in the story. Hopeless, while heartbreaking and emotional, still manages to put a huge smile on your face when reading it. (A lot of that has to do with one Dean Holder) In the style of Walking Disaster, Stealing Harper, This Girl, and I'm sure many more, the new trend in NA is to write a smash-hit, then go back and write the guy's POV as a sequel of sorts. Out of these, I've only read Walking Disaster and didn't really feel that it warranted its own full-length book. But looking at the page counts of the other alternate POV sequels, I'm more inclined to believe they'll pack more of a punch with the condensed page numbers.
What are you waiting for? Thoughts on alternate POV's written as whole, separate books? Do you like this trend?

review - The Memory of After

noreply@blogger.com (candice (thecrjreviews)) — Sat, 25 May 2013 04:02:00 +0000

	The Memory of After by: Lenore Appelhans \| Website \| Twitter Publication Date: January 15, 2013 Publisher: Simon & Schuster Series: The Memory Chronicles #1 Format: eBook on PulseIt Page Count: 304 Genre: YA, Sci-Fi, Paranormal Get your copy: Amazon \| B&N

Summary: In this gripping exploration of a futuristic afterlife, a teen discovers that death is just the beginning. Since her untimely death the day before her eighteenth birthday, Felicia Ward has been trapped in Level 2, a stark white afterlife located between our world and the next. Along with her fellow drones, Felicia passes the endless hours reliving memories of her time on Earth and mourning what she’s lost—family, friends, and Neil, the boy she loved. Then a girl in a neighboring chamber is found dead, and nobody but Felicia recalls that she existed in the first place. When Julian—a dangerously charming guy Felicia knew in life—comes to offer Felicia a way out, Felicia learns the truth: If she joins the rebellion to overthrow the Morati, the angel guardians of Level 2, she can be with Neil again. Suspended between Heaven and Earth, Felicia finds herself at the center of an age-old struggle between good and evil. As memories from her life come back to haunt her, and as the Morati hunt her down, Felicia will discover it’s not just her own redemption at stake… but the salvation of all mankind. Summary and cover image from goodreads.


After following Lenore Appelhans' blog for about two years, I was so excited to hear that she signed a YA book deal. Originally titled Level 2, it was recently renamed The Memory of After and got a cover redesign. And as redesigns go, this one was perfect; the photo was actually from the original photoshoot and maintained the same look. While some might tout The Memory of After as a dystopian tale; I would actually call it a paranormal afterlife story with futuristic touches. The story pleasantly surprised me, because while I knew it would focus on a character's life after death, it didn't seem to fall into any cliched limbo/heaven scenarios. There weren't clouds and cherubs, rather a Matrix-like setting, a 21st century afterlife if you will. We meet Felicia, who is stuck in a bizarre limbo along with a hive of other girls following their untimely deaths. To pass time, everyone relives their memories via interactive pods. (I always pictured the TV show Dollhouse-like pods) Outside of their pods, all the girls seem to lose track of who they are, but Felicia seems to be slightly more with it memory-wise, being able to maintain certain truths and memories. I thoroughly enjoyed the flashbacks and how they were introduced as YouTube-like video with stats for each memory file and that watches basically amount to a form of currency. There are really three timelines in the book; living with her parents (aka Julian timline), living with her grandma (aka Neil timeline), and living in Level 2 after her death. The consequences of her actions are revealed through her memories of the past. There is also this ever-present feeling of self-loathing; Felicia's past really haunts her. Wondering if she'll spend eternity stuck in this rut with her fellow zombie-like hive occupants, Felicia's world is turned upside down when Julian barges into her hive. Thus begins her journey to discover answers and find the boyfriend, Neil, she lost when she died. Julian acts as her guide outside of the hive, and this is where (around 45%) the story slipped into a repeating pattern of running to the next hive, reliving and repowering via her memory files. I was just starting to think that something had to give, when Felicia finally makes a stand and demands answers before she'll blindly continues. Like every good YA dystopian/paranormal story, there is a rebel force, fighting against those in power. Felicia just happens to be the key to winning this battle against the Morati, or fallen angels, who rule over Level 2. Here's where the action starts and reveals are made. While reading, there are some clues, coincidences that started to tickle my brain, but I did not guess their true meanings. At one point, I actually thought that the whole thing was taking place in Felicia's head. But fear not, that was not the case and it was so much better and heart-wrenching.
Have you read The Memory of After, aka Level 2? What did you think?

swoon thursday | 2 - Wait for You

noreply@blogger.com (candice (thecrjreviews)) — Thu, 23 May 2013 04:00:00 +0000


Swoon Thursday is a weekly meme hosted by the awesome ladies over at YA Bound to share your swoon-inducing bookish moments. Here's how to join in the fun: From the book you’re currently reading, or one you just finished, tell us what made you SWOON. What got your heart pounding, your skin tingling, and your stomach fluttering. Shout it out on Twitter with the hashtag #YABound
	Wait for You by: J. Lynn \| Website \| Twitter Series: Wait for You #1 Kindle Location: 4966 Placing one hand on his shoulder, I climbed up onto the bed, my knees on either side of his thighs. His hands landed on my towel-covered hips. "Cam?" His lips tipped up on the side and the dimple began to appear in his left cheek. "What are you up to?" "Nothing," I said, recognizing the breathlessness in my voice. "Everything."
This is towards the end of the book; after the slow burn of a growing romance. Here's my review in which I officially melted into a puddle on the floor. Cameron completely stole my heart; he was prefect for Avery. Have you read a great swoony scene lately? Let me know!

waiting on wednesday | 8 - Dreams of Gods & Monsters

noreply@blogger.com (candice (thecrjreviews)) — Wed, 22 May 2013 19:21:00 +0000


Waiting on Wednesday is a weekly meme hosted by Breaking the Spine that spotlights upcoming releases that we can't wait to get in our hands.
	Dreams of Gods & Monsters by: Laini Taylor \| Website \| Twitter Publication Date: April 2014 Publisher: Little, Brown & Company Series: Daughter of Smoke & Bone #3
No official cover or summary, but the title and the following Q&A were released on EW's Shelf Life last week. ENTERTAINMENT WEEKLY: What can fans expect from Dreams of Gods & Monsters? LAINI TAYLOR: Dreams of Gods & Monsters picks up where Days of Blood & Starlight leaves off, and you can expect to see: seraphim in the human world (which will never be the same again), scientific excavation of “the pit”, enemy armies trying to fight side by side, the possibility of love rekindling, and … new threats that make Jael seem but a minor nuisance. At the barriers of space and time, what do gods and monsters dream of? Q&A and cover image from EW.com.

Why the WOW: While I was slightly indifferent about Daughter of Smoke & Bone, Days of Blood & Starlight completely owned me, in the best way possible. From my review, I finally got hooked when Karou's backstory and other life were brought to the forefront, turning the slightly paranormal story into one that had more of a fantasy feel (right up my alley). Now I can't wait to read the epic conclusion.
What are you waiting for?

review - Wait for You

noreply@blogger.com (candice (thecrjreviews)) — Fri, 17 May 2013 15:00:00 +0000

	Wait for You by: J. Lynn \| Website \| Twitter Publication Date: February 26, 2013 Publisher: Self-published Series: Wait for You #1 Format: eBook Page Count: 332 Genre: New Adult, Contemporary, Romance Get your copy: Amazon \| B&N

Summary: Some things are worth waiting for… Traveling thousands of miles from home to enter college is the only way nineteen-year-old Avery Morgansten can escape what happened at the Halloween party five years ago—an event that forever changed her life. All she needs to do is make it to her classes on time, make sure the bracelet on her left wrist stays in place, not draw any attention to herself, and maybe—please God—make a few friends, because surely that would be a nice change of pace. The one thing she didn’t need and never planned on was capturing the attention of the one guy who could shatter the precarious future she’s building for herself. Some things are worth experiencing… Cameron Hamilton is six feet and three inches of swoon-worthy hotness, complete with a pair of striking blue eyes and a remarkable ability to make her want things she believed were irrevocably stolen from her. She knows she needs to stay away from him, but Cam is freaking everywhere, with his charm, his witty banter, and that damn dimple that’s just so… so lickable. Getting involved with him is dangerous, but when ignoring the simmering tension that sparks whenever they are around each other becomes impossible, he brings out a side of her she never knew existed. Some things should never be kept quiet… But when Avery starts receiving threatening emails and phone calls forcing her to face a past she wants silenced, she’s has no other choice but to acknowledge that someone is refusing to allow her to let go of that night when everything changed. When the devastating truth comes out, will she resurface this time with one less scar? And can Cam be there to help her or will he be dragged down with her? And some things are worth fighting for… Summary and cover image from goodreads.


I meant for this to be a mini-review, but I starting writing and couldn't stop! So prepare yourself, this review might contain a lot of gushing over this amazing, hot, and slightly angsty story. It starts by introducing Avery, who is more or less running away from her hometown and all the bad memories and relationships (or really the lack of any true friendships). On her first day of class, she literally runs into the rock-hard body of Cameron Hamilton. Already late, she refuses to walk into class and once again runs away, leaving Cam alone in the hallway and beginning their habit of running into each other. Avery is very skittish and closed-off; we know something awful has happened in her past. Her past is slowly revealed in reverse, in that we see all the consequences of this awful event. That her parents have basically abandoned her, simply to keep up social appearances. These revelations build throughout the story, which in the world of NA stories/tropes that can be overused added a great twist. Back to Cam, BMOC; he stole the show being the ever-swoonworthy gentleman. It was the little details that made me love him; like his always present cap, worn backwards if he's really listening to Avery. Cam's story is not free from some angst. I loved his protective big brother side and his family in general. I totally see why Avery felt comfortable when she visited. Emotions were running high in a certain scene with Cam's mom and Avery, ohh feelings! Due to Avery's refusal to go on a date with him, Cam approaches her with the "let's be friends," while I make plans to become more. I was a sucker for this method. This actually reminded me of Beautiful Disaster, but much more believable and sweeter. My one concern with the romance was WHY was Cam so infatuated with Avery in the first place? Was it the challenge? A one-chapter POV from Cam could shed some much needed light on his reasoning. Its just that their first interaction was so short, and while it grows into something beautiful, I wouldn't want this rooted in some insta-love moment. [Just saw on goodreads that Trust in Me (#1.5 novella) will be release in Oct 2013 and is in Cam's POV. Wish granted!] After that initial attraction, the romance is fairly gradual; the way lasting relationships truly are. The kind where things always remind you of the other person and you miss their general presence in your life. Cue the cliched fall-break scene where this realization hits Avery. Did I see this coming from a mile away? Yeah, but I loved reading it. Avery finally sees the potential of a relationship with Cam. There was one small issue that the pragmatic me couldn't let go. There was no way an incoming freshman is allowed to live off campus. I understand its need for the story to work, but most universities require that all first-year freshmen live in the dorms on campus. Sidekick-wise, Brittany was a grounding force for the story. When Avery is about to lose it or needs a friend, Brit is always there. Her straight-forward, tell/ask it like it is attitude made me very happy. I loved that she kicked fellow side-kick, Jacob, out of the room, when there was real issued to discuss. She wasn't just an outgoing (read: partying co-ed) friend, meant only to bring Avery out of her shell. No, Brit actually cared about Avery's well-being. The pacing was perfect and realistic, allowing Avery to grow and adapt to her and Cam's relationship. The ending provided poignant closure for Avery and leaves readers with a giddy sense of hope for her and her future with Cam. So much to fan-girl over, but I'll stop and let you discover how awesome Wait for You is. Extremely excited to continue this series with Cam's sister, Teresa, coming Feb 2014.

waiting on wednesday | 7 - Rebel Spring

noreply@blogger.com (candice (thecrjreviews)) — Wed, 15 May 2013 04:08:00 +0000


Waiting on Wednesday is a weekly meme hosted by Breaking the Spine that spotlights upcoming releases that we can't wait to get in our hands.
	Rebel Spring by: Morgan Rhodes \| Website \| Twitter Publication Date: December 3, 2013 Publisher: Razorbill Series: Falling Kingdoms #2
Summary: Love, power, and magic collide with war in the second book of the Falling Kingdoms series Auranos has fallen and the three kingdoms—Auranos, Limeros, and Paelsia—are now united as one country called Mytica. But still, magic beckons, and with it the chance to rule not just Mytica, but the world… When the evil King Gaius announces that a road is to be built into the Forbidden Mountains, formally linking all of Mytica together, he sets off a chain of events that will forever change the face of this land, forcing Cleo the dethroned princess, Magnus the reluctant heir, Lucia the haunted sorceress, and Jonas the desperate rebel to take steps they never could have imagined. Summary and cover image from goodreads.

Why the WOW: I've been on a fantasy kick lately, and Falling Kingdoms stood out in this genre. Morgan Rhodes has no fear of killing characters and killing often. Her and Beth Revis probably get right along. Haha! Things were definitely left up in the air with the end of Falling Kingdoms. Not necessarily cliff-hangers, but I felt like I wanted to pop the next DVD in. What? I have to wait a year?
What are you waiting for?

mini-reviews | Hopeless, Beautiful Bastard, Word and Deed

noreply@blogger.com (candice (thecrjreviews)) — Tue, 14 May 2013 16:00:00 +0000

	Hopeless by: Colleen Hoover \| Website \| Twitter Publication Date: December 19, 2012 Series: Hopeless #1 Format: Kindle I LIVE this book, no make that Love this book! Colleen Hoover has had three slam dunks this year, Slammed, Point of Retreat, and Hopeless. Each one was utterly all-consuming. The writing is very real and easy to lose yourself in the story. Hopeless, while heartbreaking and emotional, still manages to put a huge smile on your face when reading it. (A lot of that has to do with one Dean Holder) Colleen Hoover has a certain chapter written from Holder's POV; it's free over on her website. Oh, Holder, sigh. Be still my heart! Get insight into Holder's head and see everything that he is thinking during this toe-curling scene.

	Beautiful Bastard by: Christina Lauren \| Website Publication Date: February 12, 2013 Series: Beautiful Bastard #1 Format: PB from the Biblioteca This was a quick and steamy read. The hate/love (really more like "I love how you infuriate me") relationship between Chloe and Bennett was smokin'. But beyond that the story was kind of flat. There was some good angst about how or it their relationship would work, with her being his intern. But it felt like the story was just skimming the surface. I connected more with Bennett, probably because he was the first to commit to the relationship, in whatever form he could have. Chloe was the one fighting it. That role reversal (or that the reader gets Bennett's POV, fully displaying his emotions) was refreshing and interesting to read. This is what I wish the story as a whole had more of, some deeper emotion. Still planning on picking up the sequel. Funny note, despite all the passion in this book the following was my favorite line. "Would you have gone back to the room?" I asked into her ear as she carefully read an undergraduate poster on a rebranding idea for some small cellular company. Graphs were taped to the poster board, for crying out loud. - page 227

	Word and Deed by: Susannah Noel \| Website \| Twitter Publication Date: December 15, 2012 Series: Wordless Chronicles #2 Format: Kindle Earlier this year, I picked up Word and Breath. I absolutely loved it. I guess it came as a breath (haha) of fresh air in the genre of books I had been reading. A lot of YA that fell into the same old story lines. Word and Breath reminded me how much I loved reading thriller/crime books, while throwing in some paranormal, dystopian, and romance. While I loved Word and Breath, I felt that Word and Deed fell a little short. Probably just the dreaded middle book drag, where story lines have to be moved forward and setup for that final book. All the same characters are back, more Connor! Definitely a fan of the Librarian!!! Look forward to future Wordless books and anything by Susannah Noel!
Have you read any of them? Let me know what you thought!

stacking the shelves | 3

noreply@blogger.com (candice (thecrjreviews)) — Sat, 11 May 2013 04:11:00 +0000


Stacking the Shelves is a weekly meme hosted by Tynga's Reviews to share the books added to the ever-growing TBR pile.

Purchased - BN.com Quintana of Charyn (Lumatere Chronicles #3) by: Melina Marchetta Dark Triumph (His Fair Assassin #2) by: R.L. LaFevers Purchased - Amazon Callum & Harper (The Sleepless Series #1) by: Fisher Amelie Thomas & January (The Sleepless Series #2) by: Fisher Amelie Bookstore Trade Blood Bound (Unbound #1) by: Rachel Vincent Shadow Bound (Unbound #2) by: Rachel Vincent

What's new: Headed out to Utah to see the Arches National Park. So, I've got my kindle loaded and a backup paperback for the flight. Pictures when I get back, or follow my Instagram on the top right margin. Can't wait to read the last installment of the Finnikin Series; it'll be bittersweet. Grave Mercy was one of my favorites last year, ready to read Sybella's story.

consider it covered | 2 - Allegiant

noreply@blogger.com (candice (thecrjreviews)) — Fri, 10 May 2013 03:38:00 +0000



Allegiant by: Veronica Roth \| Website \| Twitter Publication Date: October 22, 2013 Publisher: HarperCollins Series: Divergent #3
Who got a crazy smile, checking instagram at work this morning? Me! This just means we're that much closer to the actual release! Thank you Epicreads instagram! I wasn't sure about it with with the blue background, but on white it looks good. The first thing I noticed was the airport. It's Chicago, how could we not venture to O'Hare? The water keeps the classic elements going, with fire (Divergent) and earth (Insurgent).

	Hopeless by: Colleen Hoover \| Website \| Twitter Publication Date: December 19, 2012 Series: Hopeless #1 Format: Kindle I LIVE this book, no make that Love this book! Colleen Hoover has had three slam dunks this year, Slammed, Point of Retreat, and Hopeless. Each one was utterly all-consuming. The writing is very real and easy to lose yourself in the story. Hopeless, while heartbreaking and emotional, still manages to put a huge smile on your face when reading it. (A lot of that has to do with one Dean Holder) Colleen Hoover has a certain chapter written from Holder's POV; it's free over on her website. Oh, Holder, sigh. Be still my heart! Get insight into Holder's head and see everything that he is thinking during this toe-curling scene.

	Beautiful Bastard by: Christina Lauren \| Website Publication Date: February 12, 2013 Series: Beautiful Bastard #1 Format: PB from the Biblioteca This was a quick and steamy read. The hate/love (really more like "I love how you infuriate me") relationship between Chloe and Bennett was smokin'. But beyond that the story was kind of flat. There was some good angst about how or it their relationship would work, with her being his intern. But it felt like the story was just skimming the surface. I connected more with Bennett, probably because he was the first to commit to the relationship, in whatever form he could have. Chloe was the one fighting it. That role reversal (or that the reader gets Bennett's POV, fully displaying his emotions) was refreshing and interesting to read. This is what I wish the story as a whole had more of, some deeper emotion. Still planning on picking up the sequel. Funny note, despite all the passion in this book the following was my favorite line. "Would you have gone back to the room?" I asked into her ear as she carefully read an undergraduate poster on a rebranding idea for some small cellular company. Graphs were taped to the poster board, for crying out loud. - page 227

	Word and Deed by: Susannah Noel \| Website \| Twitter Publication Date: December 15, 2012 Series: Wordless Chronicles #2 Format: Kindle Earlier this year, I picked up Word and Breath. I absolutely loved it. I guess it came as a breath (haha) of fresh air in the genre of books I had been reading. A lot of YA that fell into the same old story lines. Word and Breath reminded me how much I loved reading thriller/crime books, while throwing in some paranormal, dystopian, and romance. While I loved Word and Breath, I felt that Word and Deed fell a little short. Probably just the dreaded middle book drag, where story lines have to be moved forward and setup for that final book. All the same characters are back, more Connor! Definitely a fan of the Librarian!!! Look forward to future Wordless books and anything by Susannah Noel!
Have you read any of them? Let me know what you thought!