ARC Review ~ Storm and Stone by Joss Stirling

ARC paperback won from in a competition by the author in exchange for an honest review

Release Date: 14th February 2014

Publisher: Oxford University Press

Description:
Behind the ivy-clad walls of an exclusive boarding school, lurks a sinister web of corruption, scandal, and conspiracy. American student Raven Stone has noticed something is horribly wrong. First there were the unexplained disappearances. Then there were the teachers' lies. And now the death threats ...Also entangled in the disturbing turn of events is the enigmatic Kieran Storm - a fellow student with a killer intellect and a body to die for. He's heading for trouble and taking her with him. Raven can feel herself falling in love, but can she trust a boy she knows almost nothing about?

My Opinion

When I got an email from the author saying I had won an advanced copy of Storm and Stone for my review of a previous book by her, I squealed and did a little dance around my living room. I've had Storm and Stone on my wish list ever since it appeared on Amazon and it was one of the books I was most looking forward to reading this year, so I was eager to start it as soon as it came. Unfortunately, I had some other books I was under obligation to review first so I had to wait a few weeks (yeah I know it's not that long really). Anyway, Storm and Stone didn't disappoint and I think it's my new favourite by Joss Stirling.

The blurb didn't really give me much to go on with what was going to happen in the book so I didn't know what to expect beside some romance and mystery. I definitely didn't see Joe and Kieran's part in the book coming though. And although their roles are revealed quite early on I'm not going to ruin anything for your by saying it. I'll let you find out for yourselves.

For me the best part about this book was that it was believable - especially the relationships between characters. The banter between Joe and Kieran was brilliant and made me smile as they teased one another. I especially like Joe's joke on Kieran's class schedule! It was easy to believe they were close and I liked the differences in personality. They worked together, with Kieran's over analytical mind contrasting with Joe's easy manner that drew everyone in. Kieran's personality never failed to amuse me, especially when the comments were not appropriate for the situation.

As well as this Raven was a great character. Having had a hard time growing up, she was easy to relate and sympathise with. She was likeable, yet she wasn't weak and didn't let her tormentors get the better of her. I loved her strong attitude and how she took no nonsense from anyone-even Kieran. They balanced each other well in the relationship and I think the author did a great job of building the romance. It was sweet, fun, emotional and had just the right amount of danger.

With plenty of twists and turns, Storm and Stone kept me engaged throughout the entire book. I didn't pause once while reading it! There is plenty of action that leaves you hanging on every word and I was surprised at how the plot developed. The book was definitely not what I was expecting which made it all the more enjoyable.

Overall, Storm and Stone was a brilliant read that delivered on my high expectations for this author. I love her work and can't recommend it highly enough. If what I said above wasn't enough there is also a subtle message about stereotyping and prejudices that was cleverly woven into the book. It's not glaringly obvious but it's something I've come to notice with this author and she is one of the few, for me, who can pull it off well due to the subtlety. If you love romance, action and mystery I would definitely recommend this book to you. I just wish it wasn't a standalone as I'd love more on Kieran and Raven!

Review ~ Pawn (The Blackcoat Rebellion #1) by Aimee Carter

eARC received via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review

Release Date: 26th November 2013

Publisher: Harlequin TEEN

Description:

YOU CAN BE A VII. IF YOU GIVE UP EVERYTHING. 

For Kitty Doe, it seems like an easy choice. She can either spend her life as a III in misery, looked down upon by the higher ranks and forced to leave the people she loves, or she can become a VII and join the most powerful family in the country. 

If she says yes, Kitty will be Masked—surgically transformed into Lila Hart, the Prime Minister's niece, who died under mysterious circumstances. As a member of the Hart family, she will be famous. She will be adored. And for the first time, she will matter. 

There's only one catch. She must also stop the rebellion that Lila secretly fostered, the same one that got her killed…and one Kitty believes in. Faced with threats, conspiracies and a life that's not her own, she must decide which path to choose—and learn how to become more than a pawn in a twisted game she's only beginning to understand.

My Opinion

Having never read anything by this author I wasn't sure what to expect when I saw Pawn. The Goddess Test never really interested me but this book caught my eye. Not only is the cover striking and stood out as something I may like but I really liked the title. It sums up the book in one word and although I didn't know that going in it sounded like the book would have a good concept behind it.

Basically, Pawn lived up to my expectations in what it was and the kind of things that would happen. It has the general dystopian aspects: tyrant/dictator, oppression of society, a strong character determined to do something about it and a hint of romance. It was the standard dystopian book but I found myself enjoying it. It was also a surprisingly quick read that moved at a fast-pace.

The start of the book really intrigued me, especially with Kitty's talk about not caring about death. From the start she seemed like a strong willed, determined character and I did find myself liking her. It set the scene and the tone of the book well and what life is like if you're not a VI or VII, where something as small as stealing an orange can get you killer. I also liked the way the plot unfolded and the idea of Masking people. It was like clones in someway but not in others. It was simple to understand without the need for genetic jargon and because of that I was glad that it didn't need to constantly be referred to or explained.

For me the only downside was up until the end there wasn't much explosive action. There were a lot of word games, threats and manipulating but not action which was slightly disappointing as when everything did kick off it was great. I didn't see some of the things coming and the ending was exciting and has me wanting to read book two, I just wished it was like that all the way through. Saying that though, because this book was short, I didn't find that the pace was affected by this.

Overall Pawn was an interesting read with a concept I really liked as it was solid and strong throughout. The characters were interesting and there was even a hint of romance added among the dystopian world Aimee Carter creates. I may have been persuaded to give The Goddess Test a chance after reading the author's writing now.

Review ~ Revenge of a Chalet Girl by Lorraine Wilson

eARC received via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review

Release Date: 19th December 2013

Publisher: HarperImpulse

Description:
All she wants for Christmas is…revenge.

When chalet girl Amy Wright finds her ex’s name on Chalet Repos’ guest list she sees her chance to get back at him – Josh Carter, the guy who broke her heart. Getting revenge without losing her job will be tricky but luckily the other chalet girls are on hand to offer their support. Pretty soon she’s in too deep and realises she doesn’t want to hurt him anymore. She wants him back.

There’s just one teeny complication…

My Opinion

I'd been eagerly checking NetGalley every day or so to see if this title had been put up when the author contacted me with a copy of the book. I squealed-literally-when that email came through! I was so excited to read this third book in the Chalet Girl series by Lorraine Wilson as they are some of the best winter novellas I have read in a long time.

Out of the series I think this one is, by far, my favourite. It was fun, playful and I loved the revenge aspect. It was funny yet made you symapthise with Amy at what she had been through. You could understand her reasons for messing with Josh and it made her likable. It just made me smile-especially the chilli scene.

Also, I liked how this novella differed from the others in the series. Rather than have the characters not know each other, it was interesting that they had a history and had been a couple. As well as this the book focused more on the present events and moving forward rather than on the past. Unlike the other books in the series Josh and Amy's pasts weren't explained in as much depth and it was about trying to get over the details we were informed about.

Another thing I liked was that the romance was an under the surface thing until the end and the build up was great. The emotions in both the revenge and relationship felt real and my heart broke for Amy. However, she developed a lot surprisingly. I loved how she transformed towards the end in to a confident character who was determined to do what she needed. As well as this the support from her friends was also believable and made you love them even more, especially Tash.

Overall, Revenge of a Chalet Girl, lived up to and surpassed my expectations. I love how the author keeps Holly and Scott in each book and centers the story in their chalet as it links them all well. It made me smile, it made my heart break and it was fun and playful. It's definitely my favourite of the series. I highly recommend these perfect fireside reads for cold winter days.

Review ~ These Broken Stars by Amie Kaufman & Meagan Spooner

eARC received via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review

Release Date: 10th December 2013

Publisher: Disney Hyperion

Description:
It's a night like any other on board the Icarus. Then, catastrophe strikes: the massive luxury spaceliner is yanked out of hyperspace and plummets into the nearest planet. Lilac LaRoux and Tarver Merendsen survive. And they seem to be alone. 

Lilac is the daughter of the richest man in the universe. Tarver comes from nothing, a young war hero who learned long ago that girls like Lilac are more trouble than they’re worth. But with only each other to rely on, Lilac and Tarver must work together, making a tortuous journey across the eerie, deserted terrain to seek help. 

Then, against all odds, Lilac and Tarver find a strange blessing in the tragedy that has thrown them into each other’s arms. Without the hope of a future together in their own world, they begin to wonder—would they be better off staying here forever?

Everything changes when they uncover the truth behind the chilling whispers that haunt their every step. Lilac and Tarver may find a way off this planet. But they won’t be the same people who landed on it.

My Opinion

When I started reading this I hadn't realised it still hasn't been released so I was excited to get into it as soon as possible. This book was a lot different than I expected - in a good way - and so far it has met all of my expectations.

I'm not normally a fan of sci-fi but something about These Broken Stars caught my eye. I think it was the beautiful cover that hooked me to begin with. Anyway, as I started reading I was a bit wary, especially as it was on a spaceship. I didn't know where the authors were going to go with the story but I was pleasantly surprised with the revelations. Most of all I'm glad the book isn't written on the confines of the ship all the way through. In fact, even for me the technology and terms were kept to a minimum which was great.

I liked that Tarver was a soldier and had that strong, determined and disciplined mindset to him. I especially like him in the snippets of interrogation we get at the end of every chapter. For me, the wit he used to answer questions was amusing. Also because of the soldier aspect it made everything a lot easier to follow as it didn't feel so spacey and out-of-this-world. For me it gave the book an earthy feel.

I will admit I did groan as the love/hate relationship started. I found Lilac's attitude to be annoying and pretentious. I know that she was acting her superior role but for me there wasn't enough consistency in her character in the way her thoughts were directed at Tarver. One minute she likes him the next she's cold. It went back and forth for too long. Saying that though, by the end I had fallen in love with both of them and just wanted the best for their future. I liked how Lilac grew stronger and was thankful she quit moaning so much.

One other thing I liked was how the authors set it on another planet. They described the landscape brilliantly so I could picture everything clearly however I found myself wanting more answers. It wasn't until around 91% that some of my questions were answered and personally I felt it was a little too late. I would have liked more information in drips rather than a big info dump t the end.

Overall though, These Broken Stars is unlike any other book I have read. It's an enjoyable read once you get into it and I would recommend checking it out when it's released.

ARC Review ~ Teardrop (Teardrop #1) by Lauren Kate

eARC received via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review

Release Date: 22nd October 2013

Publisher: Random House UK

Description:
Never, ever cry...

Seventeen-year-old Eureka won't let anyone close enough to feel her pain. After her mother was killed in a freak accident, the things she used to love hold no meaning. She wants to escape, but one thing holds her back: Ander, the boy who is everywhere she goes, whose turquoise eyes are like the ocean.

And then Eureka uncovers an ancient tale of romance and heartbreak, about a girl who cried an entire continent into the sea. Suddenly her mother's death and Ander's appearance seem connected, and her life takes on dark undercurrents that don't make sense.

Can everything you love be washed away?

My Opinion

So when I was trying to think about what to say in this review my mind kept returning to the similarities in Fallen. I didn't really want to end up comparing them as they are a separate series and I wanted to give this book a chance rather than judge it on Lauren Kate's previous work, however now that I've read it I just can't help but find a lot of similarities. 

Lauren Kate's Fallen series lost more of my interest as the series went on, I loved the first book but by the end I was reading just to see how it ended and that's what I ended up doing with Teardrop. It started off well and I loved the idea of Atlantis, Eureka not being able to cry and romance. In fact I loved the prologue, it really hooked me and I loved it was from Ander's point of view. Now looking back I wish the whole book had been like that. 

Of course there were aspects I liked. The cover is beautiful and only made me want to read the book more. As well as this the book does have its fast-pace and engaging moments. It fell a little flat in the middle for me but the start and the ending were the redeeming qualities to this book. There was some good action and although a lot of the storyline was predictable towards the end it does make me want to read on and leaves you with the promise of more action and drama. 

The main thing that I didn't like about Teardrop was Eureka. She was a bit bland, naive and because of that it made her a bit annoying and I couldn't really connect with her. It seemed to take her a while to figure things out and for that it was frustrating. As well as this she didn't seem to have much of a personality  I wanted her to be strong like when she was around the twins. When they were involved she came into her own but after that she reverted straight back to her old ways.

Overall I think the premise of Altantis is interesting and although parts of the book were predictable or slow there were enough factors that enabled me to enjoy this book. For me, I think it is going to be the next book that makes or breaks the series for me as I liked the way it ended and what it promised to come. 

Review ~ The Trouble with Mojitos by Romy Sommer

eARC received via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review

Release Date: 17th October 2013

Publisher: HarperImpulse

Description:
Turquoise blue waters. Sandy white beaches. Mojitos... Film location scout Kenzie Cole has found herself in paradise. Working in the Caribbean for a week is just what she needs to escape the long line of exes in her closet. Though the last thing she expects is to be picked up at the resort bar by a disgraced former Prince!

Luckily for Kenzie, exile is suiting the man formerly known as Prince Fredrik very well. And it’s not long before his rugged, pirate charm is proving hard to resist.

But Rik’s been spending his time in paradise exorcising demons of his own and he has danger written all over him. If Kenzie was sensible she’d run a mile instead of lose herself to lust - although, they do say sometimes you have to get lost before you can be found....

My Opinion

Well this book just has me stumped. On one hand it was a nice, sweet book but on the other I feel it was lacking something and that is what's bugging me - I can't put my finger on it what was missing. I did enjoy it but I had this empty feeling once I'd finished it, I was slightly confused (I'll explain why in a bit) so I decided to sleep on my review and see if I could figure out why this book has stumped me.

Firstly, I love the setting in this book. I would love to live in the Caribbean and so imaging the authors world was like a dream come true for the few hours it took me to read The Trouble with Mojitos. I also liked the fact that Kenzie and Rik were exploring islands that had been left untouched for years, it made a nice change from touristy sites and romantic getaways in places like Paris. 

As well as this the author definitely managed to cram a lot of history into the small amount of pages. I liked how Rik's history was dragged out from the book and although there are a lot of obvious hints as to why he is in the situation he's in, I liked that we had to wait to get a confirmation on our assumption. I would have liked a bit more detail on what actually happened with all of Kenzies other 'bad guys' as well though. I felt her back ground was a bit underdeveloped and rushed, with a story about one guy coming out right towards the end.

For me the book started and ended well but the middle fell flats slightly as the pace slowed down. I think is where the main issue appeared for me. I just felt really detached from the characters and didn't engage with their story. I found it all a little predictable and although the romance was sweet, I didn't find it passionate. For me I wanted more playful flirting and teasing from Rik's side as the build up to the romance is my favourite part normally. He said he was going to be able to make her beg for him by the end, but he never really did a lot to follow through on that in my opinion. I just wanted more.

I did like the ending though and I was glad the book picked back up when Kenzie returned to Europe. At least Rik had a bit more fight in him. However the epilogue just didn't make sense. It was like I had walked into a totally different book and because there was no mention of rings at all in the previous chapters I was just the confused so although the book redeemed itself it then crashed back down on the last few pages and rather than a happily ever after ending I was left frowning as I tried to remember if I could have missed something.

Overall The Trouble with Mojitos is a sweet read that did keep me turning pages. It was quick at had a lot of detail in certain aspects but not in others. It was enjoyable but personally I feel it lacked the wow factor which is maybe why I feel indifferent to it - it needed more of a build up in the romance. If you like quickly sweet reads though you may want to check it out, it's by no means a bad book - I just didn't connect.

ARC Review ~ The Edge of Always by J. A. Redmerski + Excerpt

eARC received via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review

Release Date: 7th November 2013

Publisher: HarperCollins UK

Description:
The hotly anticipated sequel to the bestselling New Adult novel, THE EDGE OF NEVER – a New York Times, Wall Street Journal and USA Today bestseller

Camryn Bennett and Andrew Parrish wanted a life less ordinary – and together, against the world, it’s only getting better. But out of the blue, their perfect life together is rocked by tragedy…

Struggling to cope with a different future, Andrew soon realises that Camryn is hiding a world of pain. Desperate to bring her back to life, Andrew is sure that if they can get out on the road again, everything will fall into place. If only he can convince Camryn that their love is worth fighting for…

My Opinion

It was receiving an email from HaperCollins with an invitation to review this book in advance that gave me the much needed to kick to start The Edge of Never and if you've read my review of that then I loved it so much I couldn't wait to start The Edge of Always. In fact I started this book an hour after finishing the first and I'm so thankful I was able to get an advanced copy - this book didn't disappoint!

The Edge of Always is just as good as the first. I was a little worried with how the author was going to continue the series due to the way she left The Edge of Always but I was thankful that Camryn and Andrew didn't loose any of the carefree spirit and rebellion against conforming to societies wishes. Personally I felt the start was incredibly predictable and there for I spent the first few chapters waiting for something to happen rather than just read the book. I was turning pages and just hoping I was wrong - I wasn't - and therefore it was a little slow to get into. 

However the writing soon picked up and I was once again thrown into the romance that Camryn and Andrew share and the relationship I have come to adore. I didn't find The Edge of Always as emotional as the first book but for me it was more on the sweet side. Maybe that was because it was written more from Andrew's point of view and therefore it was about him trying to help Camryn - I don't know - but at least it didn't make me cry this time! I still felt for the characters and connected with them however I just didn't feel so emotional which I think was a nice change of pace from The Edge of Never.

Once again, I love the message of not conforming and the desire to travel. I could relate to it well, having my on list of countries I want to visit. The whole section on the road and travelling I loved and it was great to see Andrew return to his normal self. I just loved the carefree attitude and spontaneity the characters had, it was unique and original for me.

Finally I just love the romance between the two. The love they feel for each other is believable with becoming one of those sickly romances that is full of cliches. I like how the trust each other enough and neither of them was ever possessive or jealous. It was a nice change.

Overall The Edge of Always is a brilliant sequel to The Edge of Always and the author did a great job of following up on their story. I also liked the ending - it rounded things off nicely. If you haven't read The Edge of Never yet, go out and buy it before the Edge of Always is released! You won't be disappointed so don't make the mistake I did of putting off reading it. They are beautifully written and full of emotion.

You can pre-order The Edge of Always here: Amazon and because I am on HarperCollins' mailing list I have an extract to run alongside my review so enjoy!

***WARING***

If you haven't read The Edge of Never yet do not read on as the extract contains spoilers to the ending of the first book!

Excerpt:

ARC Review ~ Secrets of a Chalet Girl by Lorraine Wilson

eARC received via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review

Expected Release Date: October 24th 2013

Publisher: Harper Impulse (HarperCollins UK)

ISBN: 9780007544073

Description:

Set in the exclusive Swiss ski resort of Verbier, the winter playground of the rich and famous, Secrets of a Chalet Girl is the second book in Lorraine Wilson’s fabulous Ski Season series.

My Opinion

When Lorraine Wilson emailed me to tell me Secrets of a Chalet Girl was up on NetGalley I headed straight over to request it and was so happy when it appeared in my approved list. After loving the first novella Confessions of a Chalet Girl I couldn't wait to read the sequel and it was a perfect gloomy-day read that I could snuggle up by a fire with. Secrets of a Chalet Girl was a quick, fast-paced read that I finished in an hour. It kept me turning pages and I couldn't put it down. 

The author definitely doesn't hang around with the writing. Diving straight into the story at Holly's Hen Party, it picks up with the girls playing truth or dare which set the mood for the book well - especially when dares are rapidly directed towards guys. It caught my interest straight away, making me wonder which direction the book was going to head in. However, a shy girl coming off the back of some bad ordeals, sexy guy and pushy friend gave me some idea.

One word I can think of to describe this book is playful. I liked the teasing and games, it was flirty and engaging. I would say this book was milder than Confessions of a Chalet Girl and wasn't as steamy in the romance section but I liked that as it made it different so it didn't feel like I was reading the same book all over again. The romance between Flora and Zac was sweet and although they both have their own problems I liked how the author didn't dwell on the negatives too much. The characters wanted to be better and more confident and I liked that they were trying to change themselves from the start. Unlike a lot of NA the ordeals were a motivation to change rather than constantly making the character whine.

Secrets of a Chalet Girl is a very quick read and once again I was surprised by how much the author managed to cram into the novella. The characters had a background and a past, we also got to see some of Zac's. As well as this there was the developing romance, a little about the future and a wedding. There was a lot of story in the small amount of pages but I still find myself wanting it to be longer as I enjoy Lorraine's writing!

I also love the setting of this series. Now, I would rather be on a beach any day but there is something about snow and ski slopes that intrigues me, especially in romance books. I don't know what it is about the snow but I just like imagining winter wonderlands. It also makes it the book a perfect autumnal/winter read during the evening.

Overall I really enjoyed Secrets of a Chalet Girl. It was playful, hot and made me smile. It was an easy read that, once again, was written beautifully and I didn't want it to end. I can't wait to see what Lorraine Wilson releases next!

ARC Review ~ Crash into You (Pushing the Limits #3) by Katie McGarry

eARC received via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review

Release Date: 26th November 2013

Publisher: Harlequin Teen (MIRA Ink)

Description:
The girl with straight As, designer clothes and the perfect life-that's who people expect Rachel Young to be. So the private-school junior keeps secrets from her wealthy parents and overbearing brothers...and she's just added two more to the list. One involves racing strangers down dark country roads in her Mustang GT. The other? Seventeen-year-old Isaiah Walker-a guy she has no business even talking to. But when the foster kid with the tattoos and intense gray eyes comes to her rescue, she can't get him out of her mind.

Isaiah has secrets, too. About where he lives, and how he really feels about Rachel. The last thing he needs is to get tangled up with a rich girl who wants to slum it on the south side for kicks-no matter how angelic she might look.

But when their shared love of street racing puts both their lives in jeopardy, they have six weeks to come up with a way out. Six weeks to discover just how far they'll go to save each other.

My Opinion

I was highly anticipating this book since I finished Dare You To so I couldn't wait to read it when it showed up on NetGalley. This book has everything I have come to expect from Katie McGarry and it definitely didn't disappoint.

Crash into You was an excitingly good read. I will admit it took me a few chapters to get into as I was slightly confused as to who Rachel and all her brothers were. Then when the book switched point of view I was trying remember who Isaiah was from Dare You To. It took me until about chapter 4 to get into the book but after that it kept me hooked all the way to the end.

After my initial confusion about Rachel was cleared up, the book moved at a fast pace and I loved the plot. The author had clearly done her research with the car aspect of the novel and I thought it was original how the girl took was the one to like speed and racing. In fact, I liked the whole theme of the cars, drag racing and mechanics - it was a nice change from the typical rich-girl-attitude. One thing I loved was the element of danger the cars brought to the book but also how they were used as a coping and escape mechanism for the characters, for me it was believable.

As well as this I enjoyed the romance part of the book. I think I enjoyed the concept of Dare You Too more (daring each other to do things) but Rachel and Isaiah were still great to read about and watch develop. I think Isaiah character was created brilliantly with just the right amount of protectiveness and love for Rachel. He didn't come across as overpowering which was great as it meant I could actually like him - there's nothing worse than an overprotective, possessive guy to ruin a story. The moments between the two were sweet and had ome funny moments. Some of it may have not been too realistic but I don't care, I was engaged by the romance and wanted things to end happily.

The only negative I have about this book is Rachel's character sometimes. I loved it when she was with Isaiah as she became this strong, confident female lead, however when she was on her own or with her brothers for me her emotions seemed to drag on a bit and she became whiny and self-deprecating. I could understand why due to her family situation and I liked how she grew out of it slowly but I would rather her have been strong throughout the entire book.

Overall I really enjoyed Crash into You. It was fast-paced, exciting and thrilling read that I couldn't put down. I love Kaite McGarry's writing and although I'm not sure what she's going to do for West's story in the next book I will be looking forward to it. I would highly recommend this series!

Review ~ Deeper by Blue Ashcroft

eARC received via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review

Release Date: August 3rd 2013

Publisher: Self-published

Description:
Rain Wilson isn’t ever going to love again.

It’s a promise she made the day her boyfriend died in a water park accident, one she still blames herself for. Now she’s a senior lifeguard in a new town with a new pool and she’s just going to keep her head down and everyone safe.

Until a mysterious guy follows her into the waves at the pre-season bonfire and kisses her senseless. It’s just one mistake, and Rain is determined to put it behind her, until the dark haired, blue eyed hottie turns out to be her new co-supervisor Knight Mcallister.

Knight is hot, tatted, and carrying baggage of his own. He’s not happy about having Rain for a co-supervisor, and he’s even less happy about his attraction to her.

But between lifeguard drama, hot underwater kisses, and a growing attraction between them that can’t be stopped, Knight and Rain are being pulled deeper into their pasts, and realizing that sometimes too much broken can make a relationship impossible.

Then again sometimes it’s the broken parts of us that fit together best.

My Opinion

Deeper was a quick easy read that moved at a fast pace and kept me hooked throughout the entire book. I didn't really want to stop reading last night but eventually sleep won and I had to read the last forty per cent today. It's the type of book I can imagine this book being a great summer read though.

One thing I liked was the life guard aspect of the book. Rather than have a bunch of teens on a summer break, Blue Ashcroft described them all at work which was a nice change from the norm. It also helped make the seriousness of Rain and Knight's jobs believable. As well as this, the trauma they had both been through was not only believable but dealt with sensitively. I felt their emotions were real yet is was nice to see their development as you keep reading.

Another thing I liked was the romance. Although I would class this book as more YA than NA and there isn't any sex and the description is quite tame it was still enjoyable to read. Knight and Rain's personalities complimented each other's well and I loved it when they would be teasing or joking around with each other. It felt natural and easy. The conversations flowed well which helped engage me in their romance. I did feel how they met was a little strange and unbelievable but by the end I didn't really care that Knight started off slightly creepy. By the end he was sweet, caring and a good guy.

The only thing I can think of to criticize in this book is sometimes I felt the emotions took priority over the story and therefore became slightly repetitive. There was a lot of description/inner thoughts from Rain and Knight about their ordeals and how it was impacting their relationship and for me it got a little too much, especially when there were a few paragraphs repeating the same thing, only phrased slightly differently. Personally I would have liked less of that and maybe more depth to the description and story.

Overall Deeper is a good, quick read. It isn't too heavy in the trauma department as it is broken up with Rain and Knight's relationship. It keeps you engaged and I would recommend it to anyone who likes romances.

  

Review ~ All Over You (Unforgettable You #1.5) - Beverley Kendall

eARC received via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review

Release Date: 6th May 2013

Publisher: Season Publishing LLC

Description:
An ex is an ex for a reason

To Rebecca Winters, it’s not just a saying or the title to a catchy tune, it’s a rule she staunchly lives by. Especially since the break up with her ex. What’s the point in trying to fix the “unfixable”? Besides, only a girl hell-bent on more heartbreak would go back to the guy who bailed on her when she needed him most. But saying no to Scott is becoming more difficult than surviving the breakup itself. And unfortunately for her, the kind of pressure he's exerting is making her rule all too easy to break.

Scott Carver has given up trying to get over his ex. He’s still in love with her and their year apart has done nothing to change that. Yeah, he knows he screwed up. Just how royally, he wasn't aware of until now. So when Becca agrees to give him a second chance, he grabs on to it with both hands. But it’s clear the only way things will ever truly be right between them is if he comes clean…about everything. He can only pray the truth doesn’t send her running—for good this time.

*Due to language & sexual situations, recommended for readers 18+ yr. 
Warning: The sensuality level of this short novel is high

My Opinion

I didn't realise that when I requested this novella I had previously been accepted to review it with the former title Those Nights in Montreal. It was only when I went to download it to my kindle did I notice and although I prefer the new title, I really like the old cover better.

Anyway this book was a believable, fun read that included a lot of detail for a novella. The back stories with each character and the history between Scott and Becca was interesting and I liked how they developed emotionally throughout the narrative. I also loved that the author managed to create suspense in such a short amount of space and had me turning pages hoping to find out what was wrong with Scott's family. I was worried that it wouldn't be revealed as I watched the page count go down but thankfully it was and the suspense was left right until the end.

The characters in All Over you were believable and easy to relate to, which is unusual for me in a novella. Both Becca and Scott interacted nicely together and I loved Becca's stubbornness and Scott's cheeky side, for me they worked really well together. There were both sweet, funny and hot moments in the book and all were described in a nice amount of detail. I wasn't so keen on the start but as soon as they ended up in Montreal things really picked up and I was enthralled in the world the author created. A few times the book had me laughing out loud and once again a novella put a smile on my face.

The only thing that annoyed me slightly was there were a few references I didn't understand. This is probably down to my age but I do find it irritating when I read a comparison that doesn't make sense because I don't know who the person the character is being compared to.

Overall, although I haven't read the first book in the series it didn't hinder me in the slightest. This was a short, quick and easy read. It kept me hooked and there was a surprising amount of detail included for a novella. I would definitely recommend and will be checking out the rest of the series.

                 

Review ~ Facade - Nyrae Dawn

eARC received via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review

Release Date: July 2nd 2013

Publisher: Forever

Description:

Can love save them?

After her father commits a crime that shatters her family, eighteen-year-old Delaney Cross is tired of pretending everything is all right. Packing up her car, she sets out to find the people her father hurt. Her search leads her to places she’s never been—and into the arms of Adrian Westfall.

To the outside world, Adrian is a sexy, charming ladies’ man. But his playboy persona is just an act. Secretly his soul is tortured by a memory too painful to share. Only Delaney seems to see through his façade to the real man underneath. And for the first time in his life, Adrian feels he can begin to open up about his past.

Together, Adrian and Delaney share a passionate love they never expected to find. Yet both still harbor their own secrets. When the dark truth is finally revealed, will it bring them closer together—or tear them apart forever?

My Opinion

I'm torn, I wanted to like this but I just can't. On one hand it was full of the angst and drama to be expected from a new adult novel and on the other none of it felt real. It took me a week of dipping in and out of the book to finish until as it couldn't sustain my interest for long periods of time due to the angst. I did finally get to the point though today, with 40% remaining where I forced myself to finish it as I just wanted it out of the way.

My main issue is the drama and pain the characters go through. There was just too much of it and it was too heavy. The writing was intense and for me it just brought me down as there was no light among the dark. Even when Adrian and Delaney were together there was always the secrets that the reader knows bringing the atmosphere down. I just couldn't keep reading for long periods of time as it was depressing.

As well as this the use of swearing was excessive. I have nothing against it when used to emphasise a point but Adrian swore almost every sentence. I think there were like 6 on the first page (and that's reading on an iPod). It just lost all meaning for me and rather than emphasise anything it just became irritating. I get he was meant to be this tortured guy who was trying to drink and smoke away his problems but for me it lacked believablity with the use of language and attitude - especially with Delaney introduced and wanting to fix everything. That really didn't seem realistic.

There were a few good moments between Delaney and Adrian where their pasts were forgotten in the moment and these were enjoyable to read. I also didn't see the twist at the end coming. That was a big shock to read. However these moments were few and far between, going right back to troubled characters straight away and leaving me thinking "here we go again."

The writing was mostly well done. It does need another edit but hopefully these will have been picked up before publication as I'm reading an ARC. There are some sections that don't flow as well and are a bit monotonous, leaving you feeling like you are reading the same section over and over again but I enjoyed the dual points of view, with the chapters split between Adrian and Delaney.

Overall, for me this book was a struggle to get through as it was just so down beat. Even with a silver lining it did nothing to make me feel happy, relieved or anything for the characters. For me there needed to be some light in the middle of the book to keep my interest as I hate reading sad thing. For that reason I probably wouldn't buy it as I don't understand paying to be made to feeling crappy. If you like contemporary book it may be for you but for me - well I need to go for a run now to pick my spirits back up!

                           

Review ~ Do You Remember? by Mandy Baggot - Book Tour + Giveaway

eARC received via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review

Release Date: 25th July

Publisher: HarperImpulse

Description:
First Love. First Loss. Last chance?

2005 was the most traumatic year of Emma Barron’s life. It was the year her mother died and the year she met Guy Duval. Eight years on, she’s an English teacher with a doting boyfriend and a young son. Life’s been hard but now it’s comfortable. She’s settled and content…so why would she risk it all for another chance with the man that broke her heart?

Guy’s an international renowned footballer newly signed to a top UK team. But behind the confident facade is a man determined to drown the horrors from his childhood with fame, success and money.

Unable to confide in her best friend, Ally, Emma tries to hold her life together as her heart is pulled apart. Did she turn her back on love too soon?

Neither of them know what really happened on 5 September 2005 and as events are slowly revealed can anyone cope with the truth?

My Opinion

When I got approached to host a stop on the tour for this book I wasn't so sure. I'm not really a fan of descriptions that start off with 'the death of a family member' thing or footballers for that matter. But when I saw it was published by Harper Impulse I went straight to NetGalley to see if it was available as having read nearly all of their other releases (which I loved), I decided to give it a chance as their NA romances have been great so far. 

This book was not what I expected at all. I thought it would be grief filled and memories about a tortured past mixed in with romance. However, I found most of this book to be surprisingly enjoyable with sweet and sensitive moments that made you fall in love with the characters because of who they were, not what they had been through. I was also surprised that the mother's death and Guy's family issues were under played. I loved that they were there as more of a motive for why the characters did things and although there were moments when they struggled with emotion they were more in the background.

I loved how this book switched from 2005 to the present day. I thought it was an original technique to tell the story with and it gave a great, solid understanding of the relationship. By doing this the author didn't reveal all the secrets straight away, but rather drip fed them to the reader which I love. Some parts were predictable but the ending - I did not see that coming! I loved the twist! As well as this it also allowed me to see how the characters had developed in eight years and instead of listening to them remember the past in a flashback, you actually experience it which I thought was brilliant.

The romance was great. It wasn't as steamy as other NA books I've read but it fit with the story and what the characters had gone through. I liked how there were questions over whether it would work and that the author actually included the other partners. The characters had a conscience and it was nice to see. The author could have easily made them drop everything and run off together but I liked how they thought things through and tried to do right by everyone, especially Emma. I liked how grounded she was and centred her world around Dominic.

The only slight complaint I have is about Emma's dad's use of language. It may be a common thing where the author is from, I'm not sure but whenever he spoke I just couldn't help but think of Wallace from the animation Wallace and Gromit. After I made this connection in my mind I couldn't take anything he said seriously as I imagined him with this northern accent. That's probably me being slightly weird though - it was just his choice of words were so similar.

Overall this book was a fast-pace, gripping romance that I couldn't put down. I loved the characters, plot and would highly recommend it. I will definitely be excited to see what Harper Impulse release next, I just wish they were in paperback as well!

4.5

Mandy Baggot brings you award-winning fiction! In 2012 she won the coveted Innovation in 
Romantic Fiction award at the UK's Festival of Romance. Her novel Strings Attached was also short listed for Best Author Published Read!

Mandy writes strong contemporary romance and characters you'll fall in love with. Previously self-published, she was traditionally signed by US publishing house Sapphire Star Publishing in January 2012. Shortly afterwards she became a member of the Romantic Novelists' Association.  She has recently signed a two book deal with Harper Collins’ Romance Imprint, Harper Impulse. 

She regularly writes of writing magazines and blogs and is a regular contributor to online magazine, Loveahappyending Lifestyle. 

Mandy lives near Salisbury in Wiltshire, UK with her husband, two daughters and two cats called Kravitz and Springsteen.

She is an advocate for women in business and belongs to the networking group Women on Wednesdays. 

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