Sunday 30 November 2014

Review ~ Real (Real #1) by Katy Evans

Real (Real, #1)Paperback purchased by myself

Release Date: April 2013

Description:
A fallen boxer.
A woman with a broken dream.
A competition…

He even makes me forget my name. One night was all it took, and I forgot everything and anything except the sexy fighter in the ring who sets my mind ablaze and my body on fire with wanting…

Remington Tate is the strongest, most confusing man I’ve ever met in my life.

He’s the star of the dangerous underground fighting circuit, and I’m drawn to him as I’ve never been drawn to anything in my life. I forget who I am, what I want, with just one look from him. When he’s near, I need to remind myself that I am strong–but he is stronger. And now it’s my job to keep his body working like a perfect machine, his taut muscles primed and ready to break the bones of his next opponents . . .

But the one he’s most threatening to, now, is me.

I want him. I want him without fear. Without reservations.

If only I knew for sure what it is that he wants from me?

My Opinion

This was an okay read, but I can't help but feel disappointed. I was expecting so much more from this book because of the MMA aspects, and it just didn't deliver in my eyes. There were parts that I really enjoyed, and things did pick up towards the end, yet it wasn't enough to win me over as they were few and far between.

The main reason I can only rate this book as okay, is because the pace was so slow. The start didn't engage me at all and I found myself skimming by the time I hit page 60. I don't know what it was about this book, but the writing style just didn't connect with me. I struggled to form any kind of relationship with the characters, which led to me not really caring what happened to them in the end. Like I said earlier, there were parts that were significantly better and had me reading every word. It was mostly when the couple were together and there was a lot of speech. Outside of that though, I felt it only had a very loose story and rather develop the tension, everything seemed too easy and set in a repetitive cycle of scenes.

I didn't think I'd be writing this about Real, but it was only an okay read for me and I don't think it's done enough to convince me to read on.

2

Saturday 29 November 2014

Blog Tour ~ Seasons of Change by Mia Hoddell


Seasons of Change Box Set
Books 1-4 + Exclusive Bonus Stories
by Mia Hoddell

Genre: YA Romance
Release date: November 27th 2014

Blurb:
You can now get all four Amazon best-selling novellas in the Seasons of Change series, plus two exclusive short stories, in one box set.

These feel-good contemporary romances follow the seasons as characters change for the better, find themselves, and overcome fears.


All of the novellas are standalone reads, but can be enjoyed as a series because characters overlap. This box set includes:

Summer Demons:
Jenna Shaw jumped on a plane and flew to Portugal to try and forget her past. However, forced to deal with her memories due to an ill-timed joke, Jenna’s holiday is derailed by the charismatic Ethan Brooks. She sees him as an annoyance; he sees her as a challenge. And when all of his usual tricks only serve to push her away, Ethan has to work harder than ever if he wants to win over and help his mysterious girl.

Winter Angel: When Amy’s suggestion of a beach holiday is overruled in favour of skiing she couldn’t have predicted it might make her break the one, and only, rule she has: not to commit to a serious relationship again. The minute she sees Luke, she knows something’s wrong, and her desire to fix people means she wants to be the one to help him. However, she didn’t go on holiday to fall for someone, and whether or not she can move past her insecurities will depend on whether Luke can face his biggest fear.

Autumn Ghosts: Only one person knows what truly lies in Ellie Jeffords’ heart, and that’s herself. Hating the course she is studying, Ellie is failing and when a friend’s cousin, Justin, offers to tutor her, she jumps at the chance. However, as the pressure of exams starts to break Ellie, Justin wants her to confide in him. The only problem is that he can’t persuade her to talk without revealing his own dark secret, and forcing Ellie to choose between her parents’ dreams and her own will cost her something she loves.

Spring Knight: Kayleigh Barrow is most comfortable on stage where she can pretend she’s someone else, but when auditions for the latest production are opened up to the entire university, the lines between fantasy and reality start to blur. Thrown together with renowned player, Aiden Hanson, she can’t longer hide her feelings for him. However, he’s never had a serious relationship and Kayleigh refuses to be another conquest. When her acting starts to become real and she can no longer hide behind her character, Kayleigh must decide whether Aiden’s worth the risk, or if he will end up breaking her heart.

Plus 2 exclusive short stories:
Summer Revenge:
Jenna promised she’d get Ethan back for his prank, and it’s time to cash in. Read about what happened after the couple left Portugal.
Season of Love: There’s beach fun, flirting, and mischief as all of the Seasons of Change couples take part in a beach competition.




Buy it now, save 20% and get more content than if purchased separately.









Spring Knight Excerpt
Black. It was the only colour she could see as she stood on top of the platform. Her vision had tunnelled with the waves of vertigo that hit her body, allowing only the dark colour into her eye line. With the strength of a gale force wind, it pounded on her chest, causing her to stumble back as its icy hold sent a shiver along her spine. The break from seeing the ground wasn’t enough, though. She couldn’t go far enough to feel safe. If she moved more than one step in any direction she would fall.
She felt dizzy ... lightheaded.
It was the worst possible time to find out she was scared of heights, but maybe it was the thought of jumping rather than the actual distance. Not only did she feel faint, but also sick. Kayleigh didn’t even know how those two actions could combine, but she let out a nervous giggle and hoped another type of blackness would capture her mind before she made a complete fool of herself. It probably made her sound insane, but she couldn’t stop the sound.
No longer could she find the answer to why she was on a platform, willing herself to fall. It had seemed logical and easy on the climb up, but now she suddenly felt as if she was standing on top of a building, rather than a few metres in the air. Her heart was pounding in her chest; the rhythm frantic as she urged herself to peer over the edge once more. Palms slick with sweat, her fingers slipping over each other, she twitched nervously as she strained her neck to catch a glimpse of the floor.
“I can do this. Just lean back and it will all be over,” she muttered to herself, only adding to the crazy image she had going on.
People were shuffling anxiously on the ground, unsettled by her actions. “Block them out, Kayleigh. You can do this,” she chanted ritually under her breath before she inhaled sharply. Slowly counting, she exhaled with a deep sigh when she reached twenty. Her whole body relaxed with the action and Kayleigh closed her eyes, trying to find a sense of peace and stillness. Unfortunately, all it did was make her knees weaker. Reopening her eyes, Kayleigh kept her head up and her chin parallel with the floor. If she didn’t look down, what she was about to do couldn’t scare her … at least that’s what she told herself.
Block it out. Everything. Focus on your breathing. It’ll be over in seconds.
Taking one last deep breath, her gaze hardened and she picked a spot across the room to focus on. She shuffled to the edge, her bare toes skimming the lip of the platform.
She was just about to turn around when something interrupted her focus. A door slammed hard, and into the room walked the last person she expected to see. His cool, blue eyes found hers instantly, holding multiple questions as to why she was doing what she was. Yet Kayleigh didn’t stop to think any further. The last thing she needed was to appear weak in front of him, and she’d only just calmed herself down.
Turning, Kayleigh edged back so that only her toes were balanced on the edge, her heels hanging off. She felt like a diver, but with worse balance since her legs had started to shake.
She couldn’t hold the position long.
“Ready!” she shouted, loud enough to silence the room. Normally she hated being the centre of attention, and wanted to shrink into the darkest corner possible. However, today she would kill anyone who wasn’t focused on her. Today she needed all eyes to be on her or everything was going to end badly.
She heard counting below. “Three ... Two ... One ...” As they reached the final number Kayleigh pushed all thoughts from her mind and leaned back, her arms crossed over her chest tightly.

Displacing her weight, her body fell.


About the Author

Mia Hoddell lives in the UK with her family and two cats. She spends most of her time writing or reading, loves anything paranormal and has an overactive imagination that keeps her up until the early hours of the morning.

With three poems published before the age of sixteen, Mia moved on to short stories but finding she had too much to tell with too little space, Mia progressed to novels. She started her first series (The Wanderer Trilogy) at the age of fourteen and since then hasn’t stopped writing. Seasons of Change is her third series and with an ever growing list of ideas, Mia is trying to keep up with the speed at which her imagination generates them.


Connect with Mia:

Blog | Twitter | Facebook | Goodreads | Google+ | Amazon Author Page

or subscribe to Mia's Newsletter for information on:
 ARCs, giveaways and new releases

**Giveaway**
3x copies of Summer Demons and Winter Angel (ebooks)



Tuesday 25 November 2014

Review ~ His for Revenge by Caitlin Crews

His For RevengeeARC received via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review

Release Date: Dec 1st 2014

Publisher: Harlequin

Description:
The marriage game...

Walking down the aisle towards striking but cold CEO Chase Whitaker was never meant to be Zara Elliot’s fate. But to safeguard her family business, she’ll have to play along…

Chase is only interested in one thing — his own dark revenge against Zara’s father. The one thing he hadn’t counted on? Her charm and natural beauty unsettling his rock-hard defences.

But their wedding night proves to be a game-changer and they both realise they’re in over their heads. Losing is never an option for Chase...but winning suddenly takes on a very different meaning!

My Opinion

I can't bring myself to finish this book. I've pushed myself to 35% but it's just so repetitive, text heavy, and slow. I haven't created any kind of relationship with the characters, I don't care about what's happening, and the story isn't engaging me. I hate not finishing books, but I'm not buying into this one. 


DNF

Monday 24 November 2014

Review ~ Redemption (Enigma Black #3) by Sara Furlong Burr

Redemption (Enigma Black, #3)eARC received from the author in exchange for an honest review

Release Date: October 11th 2014

Publisher: Self-published

Description:
Ten years ago, her family was murdered.

One year ago, she left her life behind for a chance to avenge their deaths.

Twenty-four hours ago, her defiance sealed her fate.

With her suspicions mounting and her loyalty to The Epicenter tested, Celaine Stevens makes the decision to fight for a cause she believes in and aligns herself with the rebellion. Joined by Ian Grant, the pair escape from The Epicenter and travel to the Capitol, where they find Marshall Leitner and his followers. While inside the rebellion, Celaine and Ian learn that the rebels are planning a final uprising against President Brooks, one in which they hope will sway the rest of the country’s opinion in their favor. 

However, loyalties are soon tested. The rebels are finding it hard to trust them, so when a bounty is issued on Celaine and Ian by President Brooks, it may be too good for some of them to resist.

As the nation goes to war, Celaine finds herself in the fight of her life. Vendettas will become personal, lives will be lost, and her world will change forever.

My Opinion

It's been a while since I read this as I got a very early copy, but I noticed that I never left a full review, so here it is. However, I'm going to keep this short because I don't want to give anything away for those of you who haven't read this yet--and you should read this!

Redemption was an action-packed, brilliant conclusion to what has been an amazing series. It take a lot for me to follow an indie series from start to finish, but Sara Furlong Burr had me eagerly awaiting the next book as soon as I finished one.

This book ties everything up well to give a satisfying conclusion. There is a lot of gritty fighting, action, and romance as well, just to make things even more interesting. The author draws all kinds of emotions, especially towards the end and I couldn't stop reading. I actually had to force myself to not pick it up for a week because I knew my day would be spent reading it and I had stuff I needed to get done.


Anyway, that's all I'm going to say because I don't want to spoil the book for you. I would highly recommend this series. The books are engaging, action-packed books and the characters are brilliant.

5

Sunday 23 November 2014

Review ~ Fifty Shades Freed (Fifty Shades #3) by E.L. James

Fifty Shades Freed (Fifty Shades, #3)Bought by myself

Description:
When unworldly student Anastasia Steele first encountered the driven and dazzling young entrepreneur Christian Grey it sparked a sensual affair that changed both of their lives irrevocably. Shocked, intrigued, and, ultimately, repelled by Christian’s singular erotic tastes, Ana demands a deeper commitment. Determined to keep her, Christian agrees.

Now, Ana and Christian have it all—love, passion, intimacy, wealth, and a world of possibilities for their future. But Ana knows that loving her Fifty Shades will not be easy, and that being together will pose challenges that neither of them would anticipate. Ana must somehow learn to share Christian’s opulent lifestyle without sacrificing her own identity. And Christian must overcome his compulsion to control as he wrestles with the demons of a tormented past.

Just when it seems that their strength together will eclipse any obstacle, misfortune, malice, and fate conspire to make Ana’s deepest fears turn to reality.

My Opinion

Well, I never imagined myself getting to this point. Reading book one was curiosity because of the trailer, and I never expected to continue with book 2 and 3 having heard everything bad about this series. I didn't think it was for me, but I'm surprised to say that's I've read all three books in a matter of days. The character were captivating and I loved how their story evolved and progressed--especially with the danger and threats, which is not something I would have expected before picking them up. I don't think I'll be listening to bad reviews again, but rather making my mind up on a series because this one definitely turned out to be better than I expected.

4

Saturday 22 November 2014

Review ~ Fifty Shades Darker (Fifty Shades #2) by E.L. James

Fifty Shades Darker (Fifty Shades, #2)Bought by myself

Description:
Daunted by the singular tastes and dark secrets of the beautiful, tormented young entrepreneur Christian Grey, Anastasia Steele has broken off their relationship to start a new career with a Seattle publishing house. 

But desire for Christian still dominates her every waking thought, and when he proposes a new arrangement, Anastasia cannot resist. They rekindle their searing sensual affair, and Anastasia learns more about the harrowing past of her damaged, driven and demanding Fifty Shades.

While Christian wrestles with his inner demons, Anastasia must confront the anger and envy of the women who came before her, and make the most important decision of her life.

This book is intended for mature audiences.

My Opinion

Once again this surprised me. After telling myself I would never read this series, then reading book one and enjoying it, I had to read more. I definitely didn't think I would be writing this, and I never saw myself liking the characters due to what I've heard about this series. Okay, so it's not the best writing in the world and parts/phrases are repetitive and over used. However, I can't deny that I like the characters and their story. When I first picked up this I never thought it would include the things it did, I was expecting lots of sex and whilst that's there, it's the other elements of the book I enjoyed more.

4

Friday 21 November 2014

Review ~ Fifty Shades of Grey (Fifty Shades #1) by E.L. James

Fifty Shades of Grey (Fifty Shades, #1)Bought by myself

Description:
When literature student Anastasia Steele goes to interview young entrepreneur Christian Grey, she encounters a man who is beautiful, brilliant, and intimidating. The unworldly, innocent Ana is startled to realize she wants this man and, despite his enigmatic reserve, finds she is desperate to get close to him. Unable to resist Ana’s quiet beauty, wit, and independent spirit, Grey admits he wants her, too—but on his own terms.

Shocked yet thrilled by Grey’s singular erotic tastes, Ana hesitates. For all the trappings of success—his multinational businesses, his vast wealth, his loving family—Grey is a man tormented by demons and consumed by the need to control. When the couple embarks on a daring, passionately physical affair, Ana discovers Christian Grey’s secrets and explores her own dark desires.

Erotic, amusing, and deeply moving, the Fifty Shades Trilogy is a tale that will obsess you, possess you, and stay with you forever.

This book is intended for mature audiences.

My Opinion

This is one book I told myself I would never read so obviously I never thought I'd be writing this. I had nothing against this book, it just became so big and the theme never really captured my interest.


However I got it cheaply and after seeing the trailer for the movie (I think it was the soundtracks that caught my interest) I thought what the hell. And I was definitely surprised. I'm not going to say much about this book because I don't think I need to, but I enjoyed it more than I thought I would and the story and characters were surprising. Yeah it was a bit repetitive but I found it better than I thought it would be.

4

Tuesday 18 November 2014

Review ~Red Queen (Red Queen Trilogy #1) by Victoria Aveyard

Red Queen (Red Queen, #1)eARC received via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review

Release Date: February/March 2015

Publisher: Orion

Description:
The poverty stricken Reds are commoners, living under the rule of the Silvers, elite warriors with god-like powers.

To Mare Barrow, a 17-year-old Red girl from The Stilts, it looks like nothing will ever change.

Mare finds herself working in the Silver Palace, at the centre of
those she hates the most. She quickly discovers that, despite her red blood, she possesses a deadly power of her own. One that threatens to destroy Silver control.

But power is a dangerous game. And in this world divided by blood, who will win?

My Opinion

Firstly I want to say thanks to Orion for allowing me to read this book so far in advance. I've been holding of reading it for a few months but I finally couldn't wait any longer. Red Queen was an interesting read that was very different to what I was expecting.

Red Queen wasn't what I was expecting because of all the supernatural abilities. It's a while since I read the blurb so I'm not sure if it's mentioned, but they took me be surprise. At first I wasn't sure about them, but they make way for an action packed final few chapters and for some great high intensity moments. While they aren't that different, I did like the slight twists and I also felt the elemental powers reflected the characters' personalities well.

It was the revolution element that intrigued me with this read. The Red and Silvers reminded me of Russia, and because I'm a bit of a history nerd, it sounded like it would make for an interesting plot. I felt the setting had a mixture of modern and old that worked well together. It was like the book was set back in time but aspects also seemed too advanced so while it's a weird combination, I've seen it done before with great success and it worked here; especially with the primitive methods of execution and how the royals deal with threats. I will admit that certain scenes did feel rehashed and taken from other big fantasy books, so it wasn't all that original, but it was still interesting.

I'm not too sure about the characters still. I liked Mare and she did grow on me, but I felt she was stupid and trusted too easily. I found the romance really unbelievable but predictable, as I mean how can it develop that quickly when it's literally forced? However, I thought she was in things for the right reasons, had strong morals, and stood by what she believed. I can't say the same for the princes, and I found the way their stories played out a little predictable, but they were still interesting to follow.

If there's one thing that let this book down for me, it's the back story. I never fully felt I understood what and where the Silvers come from or are. They have silver blood and powers so are they a supernatural being, superhuman, or some kind of alien? I never felt this side was developed or what created the divide in the first place. I didn't understand why there was a war (not revolutionary one), and I felt this plot strand was lost more and more as the book went on. It's the only real criticism I have for this read, except there were a few slow points, and I feel the back story and world building on this side of things needed more development and explanation.


Overall though Red Queen was an interesting read and I'll definitely be looking out for more, which is going to be so far away because I got such an early copy ...

4

Saturday 15 November 2014

Review ~ After The End by Amy Plum

After the End (After the End #1)Purchased by myself

Release Date: 6th May 2014

Publisher: HarperTeen

Description:

She’s searching for answers to her past. They’re hunting her to save their future.
World War III has left the world ravaged by nuclear radiation. A lucky few escaped to the Alaskan wilderness. They've survived for the last thirty years by living off the land, being one with nature, and hiding from whoever else might still be out there.

At least, this is what Juneau has been told her entire life.

When Juneau returns from a hunting trip to discover that everyone in her clan has vanished, she sets off to find them. Leaving the boundaries of their land for the very first time, she learns something horrifying: There never was a war. Cities were never destroyed. The world is intact. Everything was a lie.

Now Juneau is adrift in a modern-day world she never knew existed. But while she's trying to find a way to rescue her friends and family, someone else is looking for her. Someone who knows the extraordinary truth about the secrets of her past.

My Opinion

This was a lot different to what I was expecting, and I'm still not sure what genre it falls into. However, I think strangely, the combination of paranormal, sci-fi, suspense, and other aspects worked.

I have seen quite a few interviews where this author has spoken about this book and how she came up with the idea. I really liked that she linked it to an already existing concept Gaia. Although it had paranormal elements, it was convincing and sounded believable like it could be real.


I'm not sure about the characters just yet, and I did feel a few things could have been condensed as at times it did become repetitive. However I liked the dual POVs and how the author kept the chapters short. Things did move quickly most of the time and overall I think this was a good read. I did know the ending before picking up this book and I've seen things about the first so it's not much of a shock, however I'm glad Amy Plum was able to intrigue me with another series and I'll definitely be reading more.

4

Friday 14 November 2014

ARC Review ~ The Kiss Before Midnight by Sophie Pembroke

The Kiss Before Midnight
eARC received via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review

Release Date: November 13th 2014

Publisher: HarperImpulse

Description:
Heading home to Liverpool for Christmas, Molly Mackenzie isn’t just looking forward to the mulled wine and mince pies – she’s got high hopes for who she’ll find under the mistletoe this year!

Unable to forget the delicious near miss with her brother’s best friend, Jake, last New Year’s Eve, Molly’s got a new resolution at the top of her list: seduce Jake and get this crazy chemistry out the way before it has serious repercussions on the rest of the Mackenzie family.

Only Molly has underestimated the magic of the holiday season… The more stolen moments in the snow that she shares with Jake, the more determined she is to make it a whole lot more than just a kiss before midnight.

My Opinion


I was so glad to see this author bring out another Christmas novella as I loved The Kiss Before Christmas last year--I really can't believe that was a year ago! Anyway, this lived up to everything I expected and is probably the most festive read I've read so far this year.

The story was perfect. It was sweet, heart-warming, touching, and an all-round enjoyable read. I loved the family aspect and how close they were together. In not sure of this will make sense but it almost felt like I was a part of their family too. They were so welcoming--especially with Jake--and had their traditions. It just brought a smile to my face.

Similarly I enjoyed the romance and how it built and progressed. I think the tension between them at the beginning was good, and I liked that the reader was able to see Jake's true feelings on why he did and didn't do things. Although there isn't a lot of back story, there is enough detail to make you sympathise with him so much that you fall in love with him too.

Overall this was the perfect Christmas read. It was fun, cute, well paced and had a story that keeps you turning the pages with a smile.


Thursday 13 November 2014

ARC Review ~ Captive (The Blackcoat Rebellion #2) by Aimee Carter

Captive (The Blackcoat Rebellion, #2)eARC received via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review

Release Date: Dec 1st 2014

Publisher: Harlequin UK

Description:
For the past two months, Kitty Doe's life has been a lie. Forced to impersonate the Prime Minister's niece, her frustration grows as her trust in her fake fiancé cracks, her real boyfriend is forbidden and the Blackcoats keep her in the dark more than ever. 

But in the midst of discovering that her role in the Hart family may not be as coincidental as she thought, she's accused of treason and is forced to face her greatest fear: Elsewhere. A prison where no one can escape. 

As one shocking revelation leads to the next, Kitty learns the hard way that she can trust no one, not even the people she thought were on her side. With her back against the wall, Kitty wants to believe she'll do whatever it takes to support the rebellion she believes in—but is she prepared to pay the ultimate price?

My Opinion

I requested Captive instantly when I saw it up on NetGalley. After reading Pawn earlier this year and being introduced to this author's work I had to see how the series was going to unfold, and I wasn't disappointed. I think Captive was much better than Pawn, and I enjoyed book 1.

Captive is a tense book full of secrets, twists, uncertainty, and gritty realistic violence. I think the author did a brilliant job of creating an interesting start whilst relaying previous information that meant I could jump straight into the sequel without having to skim book 1 to remember what happened. She weaves tidbits of information in well so they feel like they are naturally part of the story and not info dumps.

Similarly, the book itself is captivating. It's full of drama and action and I can't pick out one moment where it dragged. It leaves you in a constant state of wonder where you are trying to stay one step ahead of the characters and figure out what is really going on. However, I think Aimee Carter develops everything incredibly well so that you can't second guess anyone. Of course you have suspicions but the plot unfolds as you read on which is a nice change from having predictable reads.

Moreover I liked the character development in Captive. Kitty comes into her own and grows in strength and defiance. I liked how she's a strong female lead, and she feels believable--like she could be the one to lead a rebellion. I'm still not sure about Knox because of all the secrets and lies, but I think the author has created a great complex character in him that you can both like and hate. I think I'm slowly coming to like him, but I'll have to wait for book 3 to fully make my mind up.

There is only bad things I have to say and that's I don't like the British cover at all--it doesn't fit! But at least the part that counts is great.

The last thing I'll say about this book because I don't want to give away too much is that I'm glad the relationships aren't the main focus of the book. In Pawn I thought a love triangle was going to emerge (I have nothing against them, I really enjoy them, but don't think it fits this read) so I was surprised to find that nothing like that happened and it was more of a secondary plot the romance.


Overall this was a great sequel that I think bettered the first. It's a lot more violent than I expected, which was great as it creates a believable, gritty story that keeps you hooked.


Wednesday 12 November 2014

Review ~ Illusion (Swept Away #1) by J.S. Cooper

Illusion (Swept Away, #1)eARC received via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review

Release Date: November 11th

Publisher: Gallery Books

Description:
Indie sensation and New York Times bestselling author of the Ex Games series and the Private Club series, J.S. Cooper introduces the Swept Away series—three new, dark and sexy romances about a woman marooned on a desert island with a mysterious stranger—but is he friend or foe?

The day started like every other day...

Bianca London finds herself kidnapped and locked up in a van with a strange man. Ten hours later, they’re dumped on a deserted island. Bianca has no idea what’s going on and her attraction to this stranger is the only thing keeping her fear at bay.

Jakob wants only to figure out why they’ve been left on the island and how they can get off. But as the days go by, he can’t ignore his growing fascination with Bianca.

In order to survive, Bianca and Jakob must figure out how they’re connected, but as they grow closer, secrets are revealed that may destroy everything they thought they knew about each other.

My Opinion

This book sounded like it was right up my alley when I saw it on NetGalley. It sounded like it had everything I love from a book and in one way it did, but it also had things I don't like.

It started off great. It was really intriguing and set the book up in a tense way that had me wanting to read more I instantly. Everything was set up well and things moved at a quick pace. I wasn't sure how things were going to play out as I expected them to be on the island straight away, but things kick off soon and it doesn't take long for the characters to get to get kidnapped.

Moreover I thought everything on the island was interesting to read. I like how things progressed and got more heated, and I thought the lack of trust between everyone was a good thing.

However, whilst this book did keep me reading, it didn't surprise me at all. Subtle similarities gave away what was really going on so that when the author tries to make you believe one thing it was kind of obvious that wasn't the case. It also meant the twist at the end didn't really shock me. Instead it annoyed me because I felt things could have reached the climax a lot earlier than they did.

The biggest problem I have with this read is that it ends on a huge cliff hanger. I didn't expect this going into the book and because I felt the pacing dragged in the middle, I was disappointed that there is no resolution whatsoever. The whole book is about Bianca discovering the truth, but I don't think that plot strand was developed enough here and the I was left with way too many unanswered questions. For me it kind of made me feel like I'd wasted time reading it because the book feels like a giant prologue and everything is going to happen in the sequel, which isn't releasing until next year!!


Saying that though, it wasn't a bad read. I did enjoy it and I'd definitely read the second book. I do wish it hadn't been so predictable and more of the secrets had been revealed but it's still interesting and I wouldn't not recommend it.



Tuesday 11 November 2014

Review ~ A Light in the Window by Jolyse Barnett

A Light in the WindoweARC received via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review

Release Date: November 11th 2014

Publisher: Tule Publishing

Description:
Adirondack girl-in-transition Jade Engel comes home to recharge after ending a career she never truly wanted, but soon realizes she’s in danger of also being swept off her feet by the boy-next-door, her former best friend, Ben Stephens. If only he’d stop kissing her every time she falls into his arms.

Everything local celebrity Ben Stephens ever wanted is in Starling. Then Jade comes home after an eternity away and sends his simple world into a tailspin. He’s determined to pursue her—the one girl who got away. But when their friends-with-benefits arrangement blows up in their faces, will they have the courage to put their pasts to rest in order to forge a future together?

My Opinion


This was another sweet Christmas read that was interesting and engaging. It was a general second chance romance, but I enjoyed the story and how things played out. I thought the characters were good, likable and easy to relate too. I thought there was a lot of detail about them in such a short read and I enjoyed how things built. I will admit that sometimes I felt the pacing was a little slow, but overall it was a good festive read that would be great for getting you into the seasonal mood.

4

Monday 10 November 2014

Review ~ This Christmas (This Summer #1.5) by Katlyn Duncan

This ChristmaseARC received via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review

Release Date: November 18th 2014

Publisher: Carina UK

Description:
This year, if Hadley wrote her dream Christmas list, it would go something like this:

1. Spend every waking – and sleeping – moment with her incredibly gorgeous boyfriend, Will.

2. Figure out what’s been bugging him lately. Yes, going away to college has been tough…but it’s time they reconnected.

3. Enjoy a sparkling Christmas in New York City, gazing at the Rockefeller tree, going ice skating, and drinking steaming mugs of cocoa in Central Park.

So, driving off to spend Christmas in a rustic cabin in the woods wasn’t exactly the plan. But when it comes to her irresistible, and at times, impossible boyfriend, nothing’s ever that simple. And as fantasies of an icy Times Square are replaced by a clumsily decorated tree, making snowmen and the warmth of a log fire, Hadley feels herself falling in love all over again.

Except does Will have something to tell her that could change Hadley’s happily-ever-after Christmas dreams into a not-so-winter wonderland after all?

My Opinion

This Christmas was a sweet, adorable read. It was a short festive book that gets you in the mood for Christmas and puts a smile on your face most of the way through. I will admit that I didn't understand everything as I only just found out this is 1.5 in the series, so certain references were lost on me. However I liked the characters and the relationship. Overall it was an easy, feel-good read.

Sunday 9 November 2014

Tour Stop: Spotlight + Excerpt ~ Not Quite Forever (Not Quite #4) by Catherine Bybee

Not Quite Forever (Not Quite, #4)
NOT QUITE FOREVER
Montlake Romance, Contemporary

November 04, 2014, First Edition

Description
The touching and heartwarming fourth novel in the wildly popular Not Quite series from New York Times bestselling author Catherine Bybee.

Romance author Dakota Laurens believes that happily-ever-afters exist only between the covers of her sexy novels. But to her surprise, she finds a real-life hero when she meets a handsome emergency room doctor. The outspoken author feels an instant and intense attraction to Dr. Walt Eddy, and the feeling is mutual. When the globetrotting doctor pulls a disappearing act on Dakota, she’s prepared to write him off…until fate brings a blindsiding twist to her story.

Still scarred from a past tragedy, Walt may have disappeared on Dakota, but now he’s determined to win her back. For the first time in years, he knows he’s ready for a new chance at love. Yet between Dakota’s doubts and two sets of meddling parents, can the once-blissful couple finally create the bright, loving future they desperately want?


BUY: Amazon |  B&N | BAM | Book Depository


Excerpt:


“You find this amusing Miss…”

Her eyes met his and she leaned over the table, planting both hands firmly in place. “Laurens. And yeah, I do.”

The blonde rapped her knuckles on her friends arm. “Dakota!”

Dakota…snazzy, a landmark more than a name…a beautiful woman full of life. Yeah, the name suited her.

“What?”

Saturday 8 November 2014

Review ~ Breakdown (Crash Into Me #1) by Amanda Lance

Breakdown (Crash Into Me #1)eARC received via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review

Release Date: October 28th 2014

Description:
Charlotte Ferro is about to jump.

Yet nothing ruins a perfectly good suicide attempt worse than a handsome do-gooder. After William O’Reilly convinces her to take one last ride with him, Charlotte finds herself forgetting about her own problems and enjoying a world of which she never dreamed.

Now addicted to the rush of fast cars and cool criminals, Charlotte finds herself leaning less towards the ledge and more toward the arms of her savior. But with reasons of his own for keeping Charlotte safe from herself, William is reluctant to involve her in his criminal undertakings. Will his career choice keep them apart? Will Charlotte’s painful past?

My Opinion

This was an interesting read that I enjoyed more than I thought I would. It was mainly the car aspect that had me intrigued to read more, and although the book wasn't that surprising--due to everything being revealed in the blurb--it was still an enjoyable read.

I will admit that I thought it would be a lot more emotional than it was because of the suicide theme. However, I found it surprisingly relaxed for a book of this nature, and it didn't really tug on any heartstrings. Saying that, I did think the author dealt with the situations well. They felt realistic and developed believably. Similarly I thought the plot was engaging and the characterisation was good. I enjoyed how the relationship built and William and Lottie grew closer together. 

William was up front about things, and a genuine character. He brought humour and light into Lottie's world and the playful exchanges between the two were enjoyable to read. I liked that this book wasn't all doom and gloom, there was a good balance of dark and light that kept things interesting. I also liked Lottie's sense of humour; it was dark and could be quite morbid but it fit with the situation and did make me laugh.

However,there were a few things I had issues with while reading Breakdown. The first was that the wasn't really much detail in the back stories. You read random facts here and there, but for me there wasn't enough detail in these sections so they didn't add as much as they could have. What was written has potential to be a lot more and I thought the author could have developed things. Likewise, the pacing wasn't always on point. Sometimes things felt rushed , and at others it dragged and I ended up skimming section. It was all a bit of a whirlwind story whereby things happened instantly and them moved on--especially the ending, which I thought needed quite a bit more detail to make it satisfying.

Overall though, this was an enjoyable read. The characters were easy to connect with, I liked their personalities, and although the concept isn't totally new, I liked it. I do think it needs a bit more work to meet its full potential, and to get rid of a few errors, but in general it's an easy, quick read.
3.5



Friday 7 November 2014

Book Tour: Review + Giveaway ~ Falling: The Complete Series Linn B Halton

Falling Angels Among Us The Complete SerieseARC received for the tour in exchange for an honest review

Release Date: October 9th 2014

Publisher: Harper Impulse

Description:
Ceri thinks she sees angels … everywhere. She struggles to keep separate what feels like two very different sides to her life. As a manager in an advertising company she’s been working with the gorgeous Alex for two years. The have a friendship based upon the image she portrays whilst she’s at work and it helps to keep her sane. One mad, crazy night spent sharing their secrets and a lot of wine result in them ending up in bed together and their relationship changes. When Alex explains that the reason he doesn’t date is because someone broke his heart, how can Ceri admit that she feels a deep connection to him?

Ceri knows she’s different. What she doesn’t fully appreciate, is that her task in life is to correct a series of incidents that affect some of the people's lives with whom she comes into contact. She’s simply putting right little errors that could ripple outwards and change the course of their destiny. When she finds herself getting pulled into things that happen around her, how can she prove that she really has made a difference? Is it all in her head?

She’s alone for a reason; she’s not meant to fall in love in her earthly life. Alex is supposed to cross paths with her and help Ceri during a phase where she begins to question the signs she’s being given. It’s meant to be a turning point for them both—but in opposite directions. They are destined to travel very different paths … but Ceri doesn’t know that and neither does Alex …

This is the complete Angels Among Us Series. It contains bonus chapters taking the series beyond 'The End' of the first three novellas (Falling, Forbidden and Forever)
My Opinion

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