Review - Stealing Harper by Molly McAdams

Stealing Harper by Molly McAdams

 

Summary:

 

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

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

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

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

 

Review:

 

OK, I've discovered that the companion books told from the male love interest's POV are just not my thing.  It wasn't that this book was bad in any way.  I actually really enjoyed it.  But there is just SOMETHING missing for me.  I felt that was about Walking Disaster by Jamie McGuire and I feel that way about this one too.  Maybe it's because I like the façade of a good asshole, bad-ass guy and when I read the story from their POV, they become kind of soft to me?

Overall, a pretty decent read.  It was nice too see the world as Chase viewed it instead of the stupid wench by the name of Harper, even if it did make him seem less of a bad-ass.  If you enjoyed Taking Chances, I would recommend you pick this up.  If not, don't.  It won't bring you any joy, because Harper's still in it.

 

3.5 out 5 stars!

Review - The Love Game by Emma Hart

The Love Game by Emma Hart

 

Series:  The Game #1

Publisher:  Self Published

Published:  March 29, 2013

Pages:  321, Kindle Edition

Edition Reviewed:  ebook

Source:  Borrowed

 

Summary:

 

His challenge? Make her fall in love with him.

Her challenge? Play the player.
Until life changes the rules of the game.

Maddie Stevens hated Braden Carter on sight. Arrogant, egotistical, and the playboy of the University of California, Berkeley, he's everything her brother Pearce has taught her to despise. So why, when the girls challenge her to play the player, doesn't she say no? She doesn't know either.

Braden wanted fiery little Maddie the second he laid eyes on her - and he'd do anything to have her, hence why he's agreed to make her fall in love with him. After all, it's the only way he'll get what he wants. Sex.

But, as Braden discovers, there's more to the girl from Brooklyn than he ever imagined - and he can't help but care about the broken girl behind those pretty green eyes.

Maddie finds Braden isn't just a walking erection - he actually has feelings. He can be sweet, funny and his good looks don't exactly hurt. That means trouble - but when her brother Pearce turns up in Berkeley begging for her help, she realises Braden and Pearce aren't so alike anymore.

And maybe, just maybe, they're exactly what each other needs.

 

Review:

 

I've go to admit that I didn't have high hopes for this one.  I'm not one for the cocky, pretty boy, fraternity type of man in my books.  And to be quite quite honest, up until about 50% of the way through this book, it was a take it or leave it kinda story for me.  I really did like Braden and hos friends, and I also did like Maddie's friends.  It was Maddie I disliked.  For the first half of the book.  Then the story heats up after that and I really started to feel Maddie and Braden's connection to each other.

The only other thing about the story that I didn't like was the Pearce angle.  I kind of felt like that was thrown into the story for no reason other than a side plot, which didn't much add to the story.  Other than that, I really liked it.  Like I said, after about 50% into the book I was really enjoying it as the storyline between the 2 characters really started to heat up.  And can I mention that Braden really has some nice lines he uses on Maddie.  Definite book boyfriend material here!

I think it's safe to say that I will be reading the next book in the series as soon as it's released. Really enjoyed this one!

 

4 out of 5 stars!

 

Review - Never Too Far by Abbli Glines

Never Too Far by Abbi Glines

 

Series:  Too Far #2

Publisher:  Self Published

Published:  February 24, 2013

Pages:  306, US Paperback

Edition Reviewed:  ebook

Source:  Borrowed

 

Summary: 

 

He had held a secret that destroyed her world.

Everything she had known was no longer true.

Blaire couldn’t stop loving him but she knew she could never forgive him.
Now, she was back home and learning to live again. Moving on with life… until something happened to send her world spinning once again.
What do you do when the one person you can never trust again is the one that you need to trust so desperately?

You lie, hide, avoid, and pray that your sins never find you out.

 

Review: 

 

I believe this one picks up about 3 weeks after the last book ended.  I'll start off by telling you guys that I didn't like this one as much as the last.  We didn't have near as much sexual tension between Rush and Blaire this time, obviously.  But still, Abbi sure as hell knows how to write some steamy scenes!  I won't say much in this review as not to spoil the happenings of the previous book, but I do want to state something that bothered me with this book that I have been seeing a lot in NA books lately.  I won't say exactly what it is, but if you have read this book, you will know what I am alluding to.  At the beginning of the book, Blaire finds something out.  I was actually quite disappointed that the story took this turn, although I saw it coming with the sex scenes in the last book.  It seems quite a few NA books have taken this turn with the main woman and I actually wish it wasn't so prominent.  I mean, I know technically these characters are adults and NA books are all about finding yourself through life and relationships and what not, but I see it TOO often.  Kind of like love triangles in YA books.  It started off in just a couple off books, but now seems to be in all the books.  Okay, rant over.

 

Characters.  Everyone is pretty much the same.  Rush is still kind of an ass.  Although now he's a groveling ass.  And I still love him.  Nan's still a bitch, although her venom seems to be starting to run thin.  Grant is loveable.  Woods is kind of loveable, but to me he just seems older than he is.  I can't help but picture a mid-30ish person for him instead of a young-mid 20ish guy.  Great follow-up to the last book and definitely a must read if you've read the first!

 

4 out of 5 stars!

 

 

 



Review - Fallen Too Far by Abbi Glines

Fallen Too Far by Abbi Glines

 

Series:  Too Far #1

Publisher:  Self Published?

Published:  December 14, 2012

Pages:  298, US Paperback Edition

Edition Reviewed:  ebook

Source:  Bought

 

Summary:

 

To want what you’re not supposed to have…

She is only nineteen.

She is his new stepfather’s daughter.

She is still naïve and innocent due to spending the last three years taking care of her sick mother.

But for twenty-four year old Rush Finlay, she is the only thing that has ever been off limits. His famous father’s guilt money, his mother’s desperation to win his love, and his charm are the three reasons he has never been told no.

Blaire Wynn left her small farmhouse in Alabama, after her mother passed away, to move in with her father and his new wife in their sprawling beach house along the Florida gulf coast. She isn’t prepared for the lifestyle change and she knows she’ll never fit into this world. Then there is her sexy stepbrother who her father leaves her with for the summer while he runs off to Paris with his wife. Rush is as spoiled as he is gorgeous. He is also getting under her skin. She knows he is anything but good for her and that he’ll never be faithful to anyone. He is jaded and has secrets Blaire knows she may never uncover but even knowing all of that…

Blaire just may have fallen too far.

 

Review: 

 

This one I going to be short and sweet, because quite frankly, I freaking loved this book.  The only thing about it was Nan's "big secret."  It was a let down.  I expected more along the lines of a jaw-dropping reveal.  Other than that, it was damn good and addicting.  Rush was hotness in a bottle.  Not to mention his name is Rush.  Mmmmm.  I loved how he could be the tattooed and pierced asshole, but yet he could throw on a polo and be country club douche.  Now, I don't like country club douches but I think it was pretty cool how he could play both.  Like a chameleon.  And Blaire.  She was perfect for Rush!  A little too needy and pushover-y for me, but she complemented Rush nicely.  I never really truly disliked her.  That brings us to the supporting characters.  Nan....oh Nanette.  Such a bitch!  Glines nailed her personality.  She's the character you love to hate.  Kind of like Georgina in Gossip Girl (show, not book).  Let's not forget Grant.  Who doesn't love him?  He can still be best friend and brother to Rush, and yet can still put him in his place about being an asshat.  Read this book!  I'm giving it 5 stars, and those of you who know me know that I don't give those coveted 5 stars out easily!  Fantastic-ness!

 

5 out of 5 stars!

 



Review - The Bet by Rachel Van Dyken

The Bet by Rachel Van Dyken

 

Series:  N/A

Publisher:  Self Published

Published:  March 26, 2013

Pages:  240, US Kindle Edition

Edition Reviewed:  ebook

Source:  Borrowed

 

Summary:

 

"I have a proposition for you..."
Kacey should have run the minute those words left Seattle millionaire Jake Titus's mouth. Instead, she made a deal with the devil in hopes of putting her past behind her once and for all.
Four days.
She could do four days!
But she wasn't counting on Jake’s older brother Travis being there to witness their farce of an engagement.
One thing is for certain.
One brother is right for her.
One wants a lifetime.
And one is in league with the devil.
She should have gotten Jake’s signature in blood.

 

Review: 

 

I read this one on a whim, as I USUALLY do not like "young millionaire" type books.  But I have the first book in Van Dyken's Seaside novels, so what the hell, right?  I will say that I liked this book more than I thought I would, but it hasn't made my list of favorites.  My main reason for this is Jake.  I couldn't freaking stand that bastard.  I have no idea why Kacey was so hung up on him.  Throughout the whole novel, he was a chauvinistic ass.  I just didn't buy into his whole attitude.  

 

Jake's brother Travis was infinitely more likeable.  While I wouldn't put him on my top ten swoon list, he did have his moments.  While Jake and Kacey's not-quite-a-relationship fell flat, Kacey and Travis' had some sizzle.  You could actually see a relationship developing between the two.

 

And I don't think we can end a review on this book without mentioning Grandma!  Wonderfully funny, that woman!  Reminded me a lot of Grandma Mazur from the Stephanie Plum books!

 

3 out of 5 stars 

 



Review - Dizzy by Nyrae Dawn and Jolene Perry

Dizzy by Nyrae Dawn and Jolene Perry

 

Series:  N/A

Publisher:  Self Published

Published:  November 15, 2012

Pages:  287, Kindle Edition

Edition Reviewed:  ebook

Source:  Borrowed

 

Summary:

 

Dylan doesn’t do relationships. He and his older brother watched their dad go through hell and back, so they made a pact years ago—no girl would come between the Gibson boys. But his brother sells out. He's getting married anyway. To the sister of a chick Dylan met at a party, who's probably the angriest girl he's ever met. Unfortunately, she happens to be hot, too.

Ziah’s life is upside down—her safe boyfriend turns out to be not-so-safe, and now her sister is getting married before college is over to the older brother of a spoiled, party boy who drives her crazy. And also makes her heart beat too fast.

There’s no denying the attraction, but there's also no denying how much they irritate each other. When they’re thrown together as forced wedding planners, they find an ally in each other--neither wants this wedding to happen.

But instead of putting a stop to the crazy nuptials they find themselves at fittings and cake testing. And maybe even…a few dates?
Dizzy is a novel about what happens when two people who are determined not to fall in love, maybe do anyway. Maybe.

 

Review:

 

This one got a lot of great reviews and I was super excited about it because all of Nyrae Dawn's books sound so good!  Dizzy had all the elements that I love in a book.  Fun characters, cocky leading man, love that happens against the characters wishes.  All in all, an OK book for me.  My main concern with this book was the plain fact that I just didn't buy Ziah and Dylan's attraction/relationship.  For me, it seemed a little too convenient, what with their siblings marrying each other and everything.  I wouldn't say that I didn't enjoy this book, but I could take it or leave it.  I will not let this stop me from reading anymore of Nyrae Dawn's books, or Jolene Perry's for that matter.  I actually have quite a few books of Nyrae Dawn's books on my want to read list.  I would gladly tell you guys to try this one, as it IS fun and quirky.  It got tons of great reviews and everyone seems to really enjoy it.

 

3 out of 5 stars

 



Review - Emancipating Andie by Priscilla Glenn

Emancipating Andie by Priscilla Glenn

 

Series:  N/A

Publisher:  Self Published

Published:  April 5, 2013

Pages:  280, US Kindle Edition

Edition Reviewed:  ebook

Source:  Borrowed

 

Summary: 

 

Ever since the one time Andie Weber threw caution to the wind - and paid the price for it - she’s learned that it’s safer and smarter to live life playing by the rules. Now she’s got a great apartment, a steady job, and a wonderful boyfriend in Colin; he’s sweet, stable, and essentially perfect – except maybe for the fact that his best friend is Chase.

Chase McGuire lives his carefree, unstructured life strictly for himself. Dripping sarcasm and oozing wit, he refuses to censor his feelings or opinions for anyone, making no apologies for either and wearing his abrasiveness like a badge of honor. No one has ever gotten under Andie’s skin the way Chase does – and vice versa.

So when Andie and Chase find themselves forced to take a two-day road trip together, they are already dreading an inevitable all-out war. But as the trip progresses, and the undeniable friction that has always defined their relationship slowly begins to wear away their preconceived notions of each other, Andie and Chase discover they both have a lot to learn about life, courage, happiness, and the age-old battle between logic and love.

 

Review:

 

 

I had been anticipating the release of this book for months.  But as with any author I haven't read before, I decided to borrow it via Booklending.com.  I did enjoy this book, just not like I was hoping.  As I'm sure you know, I have a complete obsession with main male characters named Chase.  So of course, I had to read it.  My issues with this book are relatively minor, and I still enjoyed this book.  First issue, the "road trip".  Yes, in the summary it states that it was only a 2 day road trip.  BUT I thought the road trip would be more expanded upon, making us readers fully understand the chemistry that develops between Andie and Chase.  But it doesn't.  The road trip is actually over quite quickly, in a span of about 30-40 pages.  Now like I said, this is minor.  But I was hoping for ROAD TRIP, road trip.  Know what I mean?  My other issue was that because the whole "getting to know you" part of the book only encompassed about 1/3 of the book, it seemed kinda of like insta-love, but not really.  Does this make any sense?  I really did feel Chase and Andie's chemistry, but I wanted more of the "falling" part of "falling in love."

 

On the other hand, I liked Andie.  She was likeable, if not reserved.  Chase was able to pull her out of her shell and it was nice to see her take charge of herself.  Chase?  Chase.  While not the total arrogant asshat I originally thought he would be, I still loved him.  Sweet, but yet still showed his douche-y side.  My kind of boy.  And overall, my love of all characters by the name of Chase are still intact.

 

4 out of 5 stars.

Review - Vain by Fisher Amelie

Vain by Fisher Amelie

 

Series: Seven Deadly #1

Publisher:  Self Published

Published:  February 17, 2013

Pages:  392, US Kindle Edition

Edition Reviewed:  ebook

Source:  Borrowed

 

Summary:

 

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

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

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

 

Review:

 

I can heartily say I really enjoyed this book.  At first I was hesitant because it is a book out of my comfort zone.  Why?  Honestly, I do not particularly enjoy books set in third world type places.  Also, vanity.  Which is what I thought this whole book would be about.  Think Gossip Girl type books.  It is so much more than that.  It was wonderful to read a book where the main character does a complete and utter 360.  The secondary characters were wonderful and Ian was incredibly sweet.  I did have one slight issue with this book, which involves Sophie's glorious transformation.  I felt it was too fast.  It seemed like one day she was a total bitch bag and BOOM! turned humanitarian.  I think I would have enjoyed seeing her change gradually over time.  I think I remember the story going from the first couple of weeks into her punishment (6 months) to only 6 weeks left of it.  For me, that was a HUGE time gap that I felt could have been filled with more insight into how being at Uganda orphanage changed Sophie's way of life.

 

I am super excited to find out that this is the first book in a series based on the Seven Deadly Sins.  So much potential and this concept seems to be done pretty rarely!  The next book has no scheduled release date, but is titled Greed.

 

4 out of 5 stars

 

 

 



Review - Nantucket Blue by Leila Howland

Nantucket Blue by Leila Howland

 

Series:  N/A

Published:  May 7, 2013

Publisher:  Disney Hyperion

Pages:  304, US Hardcover

Edition Reviewed:  ebook

Source:  ARC via NetGalley

 

Summary:

 

For Cricket Thompson, a summer like this one will change everything. A summer spent on Nantucket with her best friend, Jules Clayton, and the indomitable Clayton family. A summer when she’ll make the almost unattainable Jay Logan hers. A summer to surpass all dreams.

Some of this turns out to be true. Some of it doesn’t.

When Jules and her family suffer a devastating tragedy that forces the girls apart, Jules becomes a stranger whom Cricket wonders whether she ever really knew. And instead of lying on the beach working on her caramel-colored tan, Cricket is making beds and cleaning bathrooms to support herself in paradise for the summer.

But it’s the things Cricket hadn’t counted on--most of all, falling hard for someone who should be completely off-limits--that turn her dreams into an exhilarating, bittersweet reality.

A beautiful future is within her grasp, and Cricket must find the grace to embrace it. If she does, her life could be the perfect shade of Nantucket blue.

 

Review:

 

A quintessential summer book by the description.  You've got everything you need....boys, best friend drama, tragedy, and Nantucket.  If what you are looking for is a pure, unadulterated, feel good summer book, this is for you.  Unfortunately, I like my fluff book with just a little more.....ooompf.  I wasn't feeling the love story or the best friend drama.  They seemed kind of thrown in there to give the book some sort of plot.  These 2 things may sound trivial, but to me, if you have a love story, it should be done right.  These 2 just magically start to fall in love.  If you've read the story, you'll know what I mean when I say this because of their history.  It may sound weird, but I don't want to give anything away.

Now on to what I did like.  The bed and breakfast!  My favorite parts of the book involved Cricket at her job at the bed and breakfast.  I loved the interaction with her co-worker!  She was fantastic, even though she wasn't really elaborated on.  I wish we got to see more scenes with her!

All in all, a decent stand alone.  Especially if you are interested in a beachy summer read.

 



Review - Thoughtless by S.C. Stephens

Thoughtless by S.C. Stephens

 

Series:  Thoughtless #1

Publisher:  Simon and Schuster

Published:  August 12, 2009 (originally)

Pages:  530, US Paperback

Edition Reviewed:  ebook

Source:  Bought

 

 

Summary:

 

For almost two years now, Kiera's boyfriend, Denny, has been everything she's ever wanted: loving, tender and endlessly devoted to her. When they head off to a new city to start their lives together, Denny at his dream job and Kiera at a top-notch university, everything seems perfect. Then an unforeseen obligation forces the happy couple apart.

Feeling lonely, confused, and in need of comfort, Kiera turns to an unexpected source—a local rock star named Kellan Kyle. At first, he's purely a friend that she can lean on, but as her loneliness grows, so does their relationship. And then one night everything changes...and none of them will ever be the same.

 

Review *alwyas spoiler-free unless noted*:

 

This book has SO much hype surrounding it that it was impossible to NOT have a preconcieved feeling of elation before reading the book.  One of my absolute favorite YouTubers, Jen (Reading with Pugs) posted a review on GoodReads about how much she loved it.  We usually feel the same way about books, and I'm convinced we're book and interest twins because of this.  Check out her channel HERE!

 

Enough with shameless promotion, on to the review!  My feelings on this book?  I liked it alot.  I didn't love it.  I felt it was overly long, one character in particular pissed me off to no end with her selfishness and stupidity (Kiera), and another one was just too perfect (Denny).  As for Kellan Kyle?  He's hot, I'll give him that, but I don't see everyone's obsession with him.  There weren't any particular instances in the book where I was thinking to myself "I must have me some Kellan."  Wait, didn't I say I really liked the book?  Why, yes I did.  Despite it's flaws, I managed to be very much interested in the story, and managed to finish it in a couple of days.  It's angsty and full of drama, so of course I'm going to like it.  I always wanted to find out what would happen next, find out when things would finally come to a head.  I have also purchased the 3rd one, but I'm not in any hurry to get to it. I'm hoping the next is better, now that we have all the cheating and sneakiness behind us. Maybe Kiera could even grow a vagina and act like an adult instead of a pansy-ass?

 

4 out of 5 stars!

 

 



Review - The Sea of Tranquility by Katja Millay

The Sea of Tranquility by Katja Millay

 

Series:  N/A

Publisher:  Atria Books

Published:  June 4, 2013 (originally self published September 5, 2012)

Pages:  448, US Paperback

Edition Reviewed:  ebook

Source:  ARC via NetGalley

 

Summary:

 

I live in a world without magic or miracles. A place where there are no clairvoyants or shapeshifters, no angels or superhuman boys to save you. A place where people die and music disintegrates and things suck. I am pressed so hard against the earth by the weight of reality that some days I wonder how I am still able to lift my feet to walk.Full of rage and without a purpose, former pianist Nastya Kashnikov wants two things: to get through high school without anyone discovering her past and to make the boy who took everything from her pay.

All 17 year-old Josh Bennett wants is to build furniture and be left alone, and everyone allows it because it’s easier to pretend he doesn’t exist. When your name is synonymous with death, everyone tends to give you your space.

Everyone except Nastya, a hot mess of a girl who starts showing up and won’t go away until she’s insinuated herself into every aspect of his life. The more he gets to know her, the more of a mystery she becomes. As their relationship intensifies and the unanswered questions begin to pile up, he starts to wonder if he may ever learn the secrets she’s been hiding or if he even wants to.

The Sea of Tranquility is a slow-building, character-driven romance about a lonely boy, an emotionally fragile girl, and the miracle of second chances.

 

Review (always spoiler free unless noted):

 

Oh man, this book is something else.  The writing style is phenomenal.  Millay's writing style is VERY reminiscent of Maggie Stiefvater.  The summary is dead on about it being a slow building, character driven romance.  My best advice about the book...KEEP GOING!  It honestly took me a good 60% to really get invested in the book.  It's totally worth it!  The romance is so amazing.  This is such an emotional book, and now I know there is a reason why GoodReads has it's average rating of 4.58 stars.  And the best part?  IT'A A STAND ALONE!  FINALLY!  I'm not really going to say much more, you'll have to read it for yourself.  It's a wonderfully heartwarming, heartbreaking, and beautiful book.

 

5 out 5 stars!

 



Review- Matched by Ally Condie

Matched by Ally Condie

 

Series: Matched #1

Publisher: Dutton Juvenille

Published: November 30, 2010

Pages:  369, US Hardcover

Edition Reviewed:  Hardcover

Source:  Library

 

 

Summary:

 

Cassia has always trusted the Society to make the right choices for her: what to read, what to watch, what to believe. So when Xander's face appears on-screen at her Matching ceremony, Cassia knows with complete certainty that he is her ideal mate... until she sees Ky Markham's face flash for an instant before the screen fades to black.

The Society tells her it's a glitch, a rare malfunction, and that she should focus on the happy life she's destined to lead with Xander. But Cassia can't stop thinking about Ky, and as they slowly fall in love, Cassia begins to doubt the Society's infallibility and is faced with an impossible choice: between Xander and Ky, between the only life she's known and a path that no one else has dared to follow.

 

Review:

 

I have a love/hate relationship with dystopians.  They have to have a lot of thought and planning in order to make it work.  Matched is an example of a dystopian that had so much potential to work, but just didn't quite nail it.  Don't get me wrong, I actually really liked the book.  That being said, this book is slow.  Think Shiver by Maggie Stiefvater slow.  The book does pick up the pace at about the 60-65% mark.  My main problem with the book was the background on the Society.  There was no explanation as to WHY things were the way they were.  What happened to make the world this way?  We do know why they have the Matching, but we are kind of left in the dark about the rest.  Also, the love story.  Again, it's on the border of works/doesn't work.  I felt no connection between the MC to either Xander or Ky.  The only reason Cassia became interested in Ky was because she saw his pic the port screen.  She had known him for a long time, but just now decided to pay him attention?

 

I'm hoping book 2 gives us a little more insight into the Society, because this series has great potential.

 

3 out of 5 stars

 

 

 



Review - Rock the Heart by Michelle A. Valentine



 

Rock the Heart by Michelle A. Valentine

 

Series:  Black Falcon #1

Publisher:  Self Published

Published:  November 13, 2012

Pages:  326, Kindle Edition

Edition Reviewed:  ebook

Source:  Borrowed

 

Summary:

For the last four years, good girl Lane has regretted breaking up with Noel Falcon. She thought she was sensible when she told him his dreams of being a rock star would get him nowhere, but now that he's a rock god and her career is stagnant, she realizes just how wrong she was. When Noel hires the marketing company where Lane is an intern, she’s forced to see him again. If she wants to land her dream job as executive within the company, she has to win him over and secure his account. Too bad Noel is still pissed at her for breaking his heart.

When Lane’s company flies her to a Black Falcon concert to gain Noel’s attention, emotions run high the moment she sees him and realizes she’s far from over him. But Noel’s countless trysts with groupies and his cocky attitude make Lane believe he isn’t the same guy she once loved—now he seems to only want her body. Then after Lane discloses she needs him to procure a job, Noel proves he’s a changed man by forcing her to go on the road with him in order to get it.

After Lane reluctantly takes Noel up on his offer, she becomes willing to do whatever it takes to keep him satisfied, even if it means succumbing to his seductive ways. Lane soon finds deception is a dangerous game and she’s not the only one playing.

 

Review: 

 

Let's put a disclaimer out there that I read this book immediately after finishing The Mighty Storm by Samantha Towle.  Note to self:  DO NOT read 2 rockstar/rock band novels right after the other. While I did enjoy this book, I think that fact alone caused me to not appreciate this novel in its entirety. Quite honestly, both those books are running together while I'm writing this review. I do remember that I liked Noel better than Jake (TMS) but heroine wise I liked Lane better than Tru(TMS). I really enjoyed the antics of Noel's bandmates, especially Riff. Although I think that was a pretty dumb name to give such a hot sounding rocker, I can't tell you how excited I am that the
next book in the series is about Riff. Excuse me, I have to go swoon.

3.5 out of 5 stars

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Review - Broken by Christa Cervone

 

Broken by Christa Cervone

 

Series:  N/A

Publisher:  Self Published

Published:  February 25, 2013

Pages:  183, Kindle Edition

Edition Reviewed:  ebook

Source:  Borrowed

 

Summary:

 

According to Webster’s Dictionary the definition of the word Broken is violently separated into parts. SHATTERED.

Yup, that pretty much sums me up. How do I handle things? I find my answers at the bottom of a bottle of Tequila and sleep with random men.

How did I get this way? Well, four years ago I made a decision that cost me the love of my life. I can't undo what I did to drive Garrett out of my life. I haven't seen or heard from him in four long years. But he still haunts me in my dreams or should I call them nightmares at this point? No matter how much booze I drink and how many men I sleep with, nothing fills the void. I feel like I am existing but I’m not really living.

I’m trying to get my life back on track. Well that was until. . . . Garrett walked back into my life. His reappearance threw me into another tailspin.
How do I put the pieces of our broken hearts back together? All before he walks out of my life again... this time for good. Or am I simply destined to just be Broken?

 

Review:

 

Sounded like my kind of book. Tattooed guy, broken girl harboring secrets and pain and angst. I was wrong. Leila came off as a shallow pity party of one. She used alcohol and sex as her coping mechanism, but I don't think it was conveyed right. I felt no remorse for the
situations she put herself through. I didn't feel the relationship between her and Garrett. After 4 years apart they can just magically have a relationship again? Especially after the incident that broke them up. Not to mention the gross overuse of the term "babe" and every other page a sex scene. I appreciate the sex scenes as much as the next person, but I felt like I was reading erotica and not a novel. This book just didn't do it for me. I think the author has lots of potential and I especially like the fact that the love interest is a military member, but this one is just not my cup of tea.

2 out 5 stars

 

Review - The Mighty Storm by Samantha Towle

The Mighty Storm by Samantha Towle

 

Series:  The Storm #1

Publisher:  Self Published

Published:  November 20, 2012

Pages:  442, Kindle Edition

Edition Reviewed:  ebook

Source:  Borrowed

 

Summary:

 

It's been twelve years since Tru Bennett last saw Jake Wethers, her former best friend and boy she once loved.

Jake Wethers, sexy, tattooed and deliciously bad lead singer, and brains behind The Mighty Storm, one of the biggest bands in the world, left Tru with a broken heart when he moved from England to America with his family when they were both fourteen.

Sent to interview Jake for her music column by the magazine she works for, they are both unprepared for the sparks that fly the instant they reconnect. Only, there’s a complication to their instant feelings for one another—Will, Tru’s boyfriend of two years.

Then Jake makes Tru a job offer she can't refuse—travelling the world with him and his band. But taking the job means leaving Will behind, and being on the road with the band means spending an inordinate amount of time with Jake.

Is Tru strong enough to resist the delectable bad boy who once held her heart so completely, or will she willingly risk it all for one night with the world's most notorious womanizer?

 

Review *always spoiler free unless noted:

 

I love books about rockstars, as I'm sure you all do as well.  There is just something about tattooed, pierced, sweaty bad boys that gets me.  It also doesn't help that my boyfriend is in a metal band.  Getting back on topic, on to the review.

 

I honestly had no interest in reading this book, partly due to the cover, and partly due to the ages of the characters.  For some reason, I'm really hesitant to read books that have character over the age of 24 or so.  I'm not real sure why, given that I myself am about to turn 27 (the characters are 26 BTW).  This book was really good, and I was pleasantly surprised.  I'm going to have to purchase this one and the next Wethering the Storm (which releases August 20, 2013).  Tru was a likeable character that was REAL.  She wasn't a goody two-shoes, innocent virgin girl who had no experience with the real world.  That was a pleasant surprise, because most NA books have those as heroines.  And Jake.  Bad boy rocker to the max.  And HOOOTT.  Really hot.  As you can tell, the characters were wonderful.  Even the side characters, such as the other band members, were incredibly likeable.  My favorite one?  Stuart.  Stuart is Jake's Personal Assistant.  He's awesome.  I haven't come across anyone who didn't like Stuart!

 

Read this book!  There is so much drama and angst, and I couldn't look away!

 

4 out of 5 stars!

 

 



-Victoria Victorious

Review - Avoiding Responsibility by K.A. Lindie

Avoiding Responsibility by K.A. Lindie

 

Series:  Avoiding #2

Publisher:  Self Published

Published:  November 29, 2012

Pages:  352, Kindle Edition

Edition Reviewed:  ebook

Source:  Bought

 

Summary *contains SPOILERS for Book #1*:

 

Lexi has finally given up her once destructive relationships and moved onto bigger and better things with a sexy new man in town. Just when she is starting to figure it out with him, her world is tilted once again with a phone call from none other than Ramsey Bridges. A year after his entrance into her life, Ramsey is trying to make amends and does the one thing she never expects—invites her to Jack's wedding.

The wedding she had evaded at all costs. But no matter what she does, Lexi can't seem to escape her past with Jack. But does she really want to?

Despite the explosive chemistry between Lexi and Ramsey, she is skeptical about trusting him after everything that has happened. When things are amiss with him, she starts questioning his motives. Can Ramsey be the one to remove Jack from Lexi's life permanently or should she move on with her blossoming new life?

 

Review *always spoiler free unless noted*:

 

On a semi unrealted note before starting the review, I WANT TO LOOK LIKE THE GIRL ON THE COVER!  Like really.  She's gorgeous.  Why would Jack choose anyone else?!?  Anyways. 

 

I don't like Ramsey.  Yeah, I said it.  I don't know why, but he just doesn't do it for me.  Even though Jack is a complete douche-hole, I totally like him better.  I do have a feeling he and Lexi will end up together at the end of the series.  So.....this book.  It's got a lot of Ramsey and Lexi in it.  If you like Ramsey, you'll love it.  For me it was alright.  I don't really feel like this one got us anywhere, as far as the Lexi/Jack/Ramsey/New Mystery Guy love square goes.  I think it definately suffers from the "Second Book Syndrome."  I really hope the next book finally gets us some form of relationship progression between the characters, because this one was lacking.  I can't remember if the mystery guy was ever revealed in this one.  Was he?  Someone please tell me who it was if his identity was revealed because I don't remember!

 

3 out of 5 stars

 

 



-Victoria Victorious

Review - Freshman Forty by Christine Duval

Freshman Forty by Christine Duval

 

Series:  N/A

Published:  February 21, 2013

Publisher:  Self Published

Pages:  185, Kindle Edition

Edition Reviewed:  ebook

Source:  Borrowed and then bought (FREE promotion)

 

Summary:

 

When eighteen-year-old Laurel Harris discovers she’s pregnant four weeks into the start of her freshman year at prestigious Colman College, she has all intentions of telling her father. But being away at school makes it too easy to hide. And while she can’t explain to her friends, or to herself even, the reasons why she doesn’t want the baby’s father to find out about the pregnancy, the rest of her world begins to unravel.

Freshman year is hard enough. Most girls get through by forming close friendships, finding new boys and a phone call from mom or dad on Sunday. Laurel has to navigate all of it while hiding an unplanned pregnancy from a summer fling...

An imperfect heroine plagued by bad choices and haunted by the memory of her deceased mother and grandparents, readers are sure to identify with Laurel as she navigates teen pregnancy, in secret, in a remote college setting.

 

Review:

 

Alright, a little known fact about me.  I got pregnant in college.  Technically, I was no longer a teenager (I had just turned 20) but it was not planned and I was honestly horribly upset. 

Unlike our MC, I had tons of support from family and friends.  I couldn't imagine going through an unplanned pregnancy in college alone.  I think Laurel handled the situation relatively well, despite not telling her father and the baby's father when she found out she was pregnant, and missing some of her OB visits.  I also very much liked Laurel.  She was pretty selfless and had her head screwed on straight (unlike the girl in the last teen pregnancy novel I read).  I'm pretty sure this is a stand alone novel, which of course, is always refreshing nowadays.  The end of the book however, left us hanging!  Not a cliffhanger ending, but the book just STOPPED at a pretty important event.  I wouldn't necessarily like to see a 2nd book, but maybe a novella that tells us what happened?  Or an epilogue or something?

 

3.5 out of 5 stars

 

 



-Victoria Victorious

Review - Metamorphosis by Erin Noelle

Metamorphosis by Erin Noelle

 

Series:  Book Boyfriends #1

Published:  January 19, 2013

Publisher:  Self Published

Pages:  254, Kindle Edition

Edition Reviewed:  ebook

Source:  Borrowed

 

 

Summary:

 

Scarlett MacGregor has lived a very sheltered life courtesy of her over-the-top controlling parents. Having never been to a co-ed party, much less on a date, Scarlett has relied on her books, her music, and living vicariously through her best friend Evie to keep her sanity as she's patiently awaited her freedom from their rule.

When Scarlett and Evie go away to college, Scarlett quickly meets Ashton, Dylan, and later, Mason, and is thrown into a crash course of like, love, and lust. With Evie's help, she must figure out the difference in the three and which one she wants before she ends up without any of them.

Metamorphosis is the story of Scarlett's transformation from a young, naive girl to a strong, mature young woman and her search for self-discovery and true love.

Review:

 

I was on the fence between buying this one vs. borrowing it via BookLending.  I eventually decided to borrow it, despite the stellar reviews.  I'm glad I did.  First off, I do like the whole concept of Scarlett and Evie picking catergories of "book boyfriends" to date.  I thought that was fun, being a book blogger and all.  Another things I liked?  Ash.  I love Ash.  And Mason was pretty hot too.  Honestly, that was about all I liked.  Thye MC, Scarlett, was annoying and had no personality.  Neither did her friend Evie.  I couldn't connect with them.  It was like they were just written on a page and not brought to life.  And the third love interest (yes, this is a freaking love square), Dylan?  He has got to be the most boring, flat love interest I've ever encountered in a book.  Seriously.  I can't even remember one fun or interesting thing about the guy. 

 

Will I read the next in the series?  Probably.  I liked Ash and Mason enough to want to continue on with the story, if just to read about them.  I will definately put it on request for borrow, but wouldn't purchase it unless it was on sale for $0.99 or something.  This book did get REALLY good reviews though (I think somewhere around 4.30 out of 5 stars on GoodReads), so maybe I'm just one of the handful of people who just thought it was alright.

 

3 out of 5 stars

 

 



-Victoria Victorious

Taking Chances by Molly McAdams

 

Taking Chances by Molly McAdams

 

Series:  Taking Chances #1

Publisher:  William Morrow

Published:  October 16, 2012

Pages:  432, Kindle Edition

Edition Reviewed:  ebook

Source:  Bought

 

Summary:

 

Eighteen year old Harper has grown up under her career Marine of a father's thumb. Ready to live life her own way and experience things she's only ever heard of from the jarheads in her father's unit; she's on her way to college at San Diego State University.

Thanks to her new roommate, Harper is introduced to a world of parties, gorgeous guys, family and emotions. Some she wasn't expecting yet, and others she never knew she was missing.

She finds herself being torn in two as she quickly falls in love with her boyfriend Brandon, and her roommate's brother Chase. Covered in tattoos, known for fighting in the Underground and ridiculously muscled...they're exactly what she was always warned to stay away from, but just what she needs. Despite their dangerous looks and histories, both adore and would do anything for Harper, including stepping back if it means she's happy.

Her first year away is turning out to be near perfect, but one weekend of giving in to heated passion will change everything.

 

Review *This review WILL contain SPOILERS*:

 

Since this review will contain spoilers, let's just get on with the ranting and whining.  I'm very conflicted as to what to rate this book.  I abso-freaking-lutely loved it until the moment Chase died.  We all knew that eventually Harper would end up with Chase.  I don't think we all expected Ms. McAdams to kill him off.  He was actually the only character I really liked.  Brandon was a total pushover and still pining away despite the fact Harper cheated on him with Chase.  And Harper, that stupid bitch.  I'm sorry, but I firmly believe that she couldn't be doing the nasty with Chase and still be thinkig about how much she loves and needs Brandon.  Ugh.

 

Oh wait, and then Harper ends up pregnant.  OK, I can deal with that.  And then she marries Brandon, WITH CHASE AND BRANDON'S FAMILY'S BLESSINGS.  Double ugh.  But then, to add insult to injury, there was that scene where Harper brought her kids (one Chase's, one Brandon's, I believe) to visit Chase's grave.  AND HER FUCKING KID (Chase's kid BTW) CALLS CHASE UNCLE. FUCKING.CHASE.  I get the fact that the kid only ever knew Brandon as the father figure, but I still find it highly disrespectful.

 

Alright, and this is where I get conflicted as to my rating.  The first half of the book was for sure 5 stars.  The second half, 1 star.  OK.  BUT, I do have to give some form of props to Ms. McAdams for killing off Chase.  WAIT BEFORE YOU YELL.  She risked alienating ALOT of readers for doing this.  And to this I say "You have great, big balls Ms. McAdams.  Like, elephant size balls."  She wasn't afraid to do this.  And I think that says alot about an author.  BUT killing off Chase is like killing off Travis Maddox.  YOU JUST DON'T DO IT.  PERIOD.  So, you see where my rating dilemma is?



-Victoria Victorious

Review - Losing Elizabeth by Tanya J. Peterson

 

Losing Elizabeth by Tanya J. Peterson

 

Series: n/a

Publisher:  Self Published

Published:  April 25, 2012

Pages: 154, Kindle Edition

Edition Reviewed:  ebook

Source:  Provided by Author (no compensation)

 

Summary:

 

High school junior Elizabeth Carter is self-confident and outgoing with a bright future. Life is good for Elizabeth, then she meets Brad Evans. To those on the outside, and even to Elizabeth at first, her life gets even better with Brad. Slowly and insidiously, though, Brad takes control of Elizabeth. Is she really as lucky as she thinks she is? What price is she willing to pay to be this popular, charming, attractive senior boy's girlfriend? Is she envied...or pitied? Most importantly, does she have to lose herself in order to be Brad's significant other?

 

Review *always spoiler free unless noted*:

 

It's no secret that I love heavy books.  Abuse, pregnancy, drugs....Bring it!  So naturally, when I recieved a review copy of this book I was excited to get to it.  And it was a short read, which was even better because I was at work when I started it, and wanted to be done with it by the end of the work day.  Let's just say I was quite disappointed.  First, before I get into the dynamics of why it just didn't float my boat, let me put a disclaimer out there to you guys.  This is not a bad book by any means.  The main reason of why I, personally, did not like the book is because it read like a middle grade "heavy" book but the characters were juniors in high school.  The main character and her best friend were giggly and airheaded and their conversations were not high school-esque.  The same goes for the so-called relationship between said main character and her abuser boyfriend.  It was very much like at first sight.  There was also the fact that the abuse started on the first date.  Really.

 

All in all, I would recommend this book to 8th to 9th graders, but if you are over the age of 17, you will probably find this book a little to young for you.

 

2/5 Stars

 

 

 

 

 



-Victoria Victorious