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November 5, 2014
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October 26, 2014
Crane by Stacey Rourke
Crane (The Legends Saga, #1)
Stacey Rourke
Pub: May 26, 2014
The Horseman is unending,
his presence shan’t lessen.
If you break the curse,
you become the legend.
Washington Irving and Rip Van Winkle had no choice but to cover up the deadly truth behind Ichabod Crane’s disappearance. Centuries later, a Crane returns to Sleepy Hollow awakening macabre secrets once believed to be buried deep.
What if the monster that spawned the legend lived within you?
Now, Ireland Crane, reeling from a break-up and seeking a fresh start, must rely on the newly awakened Rip Van Winkle to discover the key to channeling the darkness swirling within her. Bodies are piling high and Ireland is the only one that can save Sleepy Hollow by embracing her own damning curse.
But is anyone truly safe when the Horseman rides?
Ichabod Crane's descendent has returned to Sleepy Hollow, and the moment she does, residents suddenly become victimized by beheadings. And the residents aren't shy about showing their distrust of Ireland and her familial connection to their small town. But when a mystery dude from the past shows up and her dreams start becoming a little prophetic, Ireland Crane is forced to believe that maybe, just maybe, those murdered were selected on her behalf. I thought I was really going to like this, as I love the Sleepy Hollow storyline in general, but I guess I felt this particular version was lacking as I read through it. I will say it's got a pretty cool cover, which is what drew it to me to begin with. Crane takes readers back and forth between Ireland's present to the past with what happened on Ichabod's end, and I dare say I actually preferred Ichabod and company to the modern day story. So much I would've liked to have had the first book dedicated to the past and a second following up with Ireland, just so their stories flowed more smoothly. I wasn't a huge fan of how someone from the past awakened in the future as the Horseman became active again, because it was too similar to what's been done with the popular TV show. But I will admit I enjoyed Rip's character immensely. He definitely stole the show from the alternating main characters.
Though it was an interesting story, I felt several things were left unanswered. Like why did a Crane have to return to Sleepy Hollow in order for the character responsible for the Horseman to suddenly make itself known (I'm using it to hide the gender). Did Ireland's presence set off a chain reaction? Did it need a Crane around, or did he or she just want to inflict more pain on that family, for messing with it in the past? I didn't think Ireland being there had anything to do with the magic that caused that spell, so I'm just left to wonder why this particular spirit didn't try the spell whenever it wanted, long before a Crane ever returned, because this second time around, the Horseman didn't seem controlled by this individual. Or was it? It wasn't clear as I read through. Also, I found the romance a bit underwhelming, both between Ichabod and Katrina and Ireland and Noah. Ichabod and Katrina seemed a little silly, but given the historical time, their behavior and attraction was probably pretty close to what happened back then, so I found myself forgiving that they seemed ready to have each other soon after meeting. But that's no excuse for Ireland and Noah, who hardly interacted at all before he confessed his willingness to love her despite the evil lying within her. I don't know...just this day in age, it screams insta-love and was just put there to make the two time periods mirror each other. And Noah is so nonchalant about suddenly sharing a bed even though the Horseman could rise as she slept, no matter how much she claimed she had a hold on it. I sure the hell wouldn't be able to sleep so easy! Or in the same house! And I'm not even sure of what to make of the fiancé Ireland left behind. Forget me asking why she was ever involved with such a snooty douche to begin with, but what relevance did all that drama have to the storyline, other than giving the Horseman someone to play with? All this so-called romance was just plain frustrating.
If you're into Sleepy Hollow or other suspenseful horror stories, might be good to go with Crane. Lots of people have four and five-starred this, so don't let my ho-hum-ness deter you from checking this out. It certainly had some moments here and there that were pretty entertaining.
This is more like a 2.5 for me.
Novel provided by Anchor Group Publishing for honest review.
Stacey Rourke
Pub: May 26, 2014
The Horseman is unending,his presence shan’t lessen.
If you break the curse,
you become the legend.
Washington Irving and Rip Van Winkle had no choice but to cover up the deadly truth behind Ichabod Crane’s disappearance. Centuries later, a Crane returns to Sleepy Hollow awakening macabre secrets once believed to be buried deep.
What if the monster that spawned the legend lived within you?
Now, Ireland Crane, reeling from a break-up and seeking a fresh start, must rely on the newly awakened Rip Van Winkle to discover the key to channeling the darkness swirling within her. Bodies are piling high and Ireland is the only one that can save Sleepy Hollow by embracing her own damning curse.
But is anyone truly safe when the Horseman rides?
Ichabod Crane's descendent has returned to Sleepy Hollow, and the moment she does, residents suddenly become victimized by beheadings. And the residents aren't shy about showing their distrust of Ireland and her familial connection to their small town. But when a mystery dude from the past shows up and her dreams start becoming a little prophetic, Ireland Crane is forced to believe that maybe, just maybe, those murdered were selected on her behalf. I thought I was really going to like this, as I love the Sleepy Hollow storyline in general, but I guess I felt this particular version was lacking as I read through it. I will say it's got a pretty cool cover, which is what drew it to me to begin with. Crane takes readers back and forth between Ireland's present to the past with what happened on Ichabod's end, and I dare say I actually preferred Ichabod and company to the modern day story. So much I would've liked to have had the first book dedicated to the past and a second following up with Ireland, just so their stories flowed more smoothly. I wasn't a huge fan of how someone from the past awakened in the future as the Horseman became active again, because it was too similar to what's been done with the popular TV show. But I will admit I enjoyed Rip's character immensely. He definitely stole the show from the alternating main characters.
Though it was an interesting story, I felt several things were left unanswered. Like why did a Crane have to return to Sleepy Hollow in order for the character responsible for the Horseman to suddenly make itself known (I'm using it to hide the gender). Did Ireland's presence set off a chain reaction? Did it need a Crane around, or did he or she just want to inflict more pain on that family, for messing with it in the past? I didn't think Ireland being there had anything to do with the magic that caused that spell, so I'm just left to wonder why this particular spirit didn't try the spell whenever it wanted, long before a Crane ever returned, because this second time around, the Horseman didn't seem controlled by this individual. Or was it? It wasn't clear as I read through. Also, I found the romance a bit underwhelming, both between Ichabod and Katrina and Ireland and Noah. Ichabod and Katrina seemed a little silly, but given the historical time, their behavior and attraction was probably pretty close to what happened back then, so I found myself forgiving that they seemed ready to have each other soon after meeting. But that's no excuse for Ireland and Noah, who hardly interacted at all before he confessed his willingness to love her despite the evil lying within her. I don't know...just this day in age, it screams insta-love and was just put there to make the two time periods mirror each other. And Noah is so nonchalant about suddenly sharing a bed even though the Horseman could rise as she slept, no matter how much she claimed she had a hold on it. I sure the hell wouldn't be able to sleep so easy! Or in the same house! And I'm not even sure of what to make of the fiancé Ireland left behind. Forget me asking why she was ever involved with such a snooty douche to begin with, but what relevance did all that drama have to the storyline, other than giving the Horseman someone to play with? All this so-called romance was just plain frustrating.
If you're into Sleepy Hollow or other suspenseful horror stories, might be good to go with Crane. Lots of people have four and five-starred this, so don't let my ho-hum-ness deter you from checking this out. It certainly had some moments here and there that were pretty entertaining.
This is more like a 2.5 for me.
Novel provided by Anchor Group Publishing for honest review.
October 17, 2014
UNBREAKABLE and UNMARKED by Kami Garcia (ARCs)
Unbreakable (The Legion #1)
Kami Garcia
Pub.: October 1, 2014
I never believed in ghosts. Until one tried to kill me.
When Kennedy Waters finds her mother dead, her world begins to unravel. She doesn’t know that paranormal forces in a much darker world are the ones pulling the strings. Not until identical twins Jared and Lukas Lockhart break into Kennedy’s room and destroy a dangerous spirit sent to kill her. The brothers reveal that her mother was part of an ancient secret society responsible for protecting the world from a vengeful demon — a society whose five members were all murdered on the same night.
Now Kennedy has to take her mother’s place in the Legion if she wants to uncover the truth and stay alive. Along with new Legion members Priest and Alara, the teens race to find the only weapon that might be able to destroy the demon — battling the deadly spirits he controls every step of the way.
Life was normal and easy-going before Kennedy came home to find her mother dead. She thought it was natural causes until she awoke to find her possessed cat sucking the life out of her. And the only reason she survived? Because two brothers were close by keeping an eye on her, and when she screamed, they came running in to help. They claimed to be part of a legion of modern day ghostbusters, a group which the next successors are chosen by the five current members. When all five were killed by the minions of a demon named Andras, the brothers and two others were activated. And so was Kennedy, if she could believe their wild tale. Though not entirely convinced, having a poltergeist blow up your home is pretty good motivation to give their crazy story a chance.
Enter Alara and Priest, the other two members of Legion. Going through their predecessors journals, they learn of a weapon called the shift that could take Andras down, but it's been separated into several pieces and left in the possession of vengeance spirits. Following the clues left at each site, the members one by one kill a vengeance spirit using their specialty skill and earn their fifth of the Andras seal on their forearm. But once Kennedy fulfills her part, its not the seal she earns for killing the ghost and completing the weapon, but something none of them could see coming.
If you're looking for paranormal story that reads a lot like the hit show Supernatural, you'll probably be happy enough with this novel. There is the workings of a love triangle between Kennedy and the twins, but still pretty light on actual romance in this first installment. Unbreakable was a really fast read that'll keep your attention from beginning to end, so check it out if ghostbustin' tops your genre list.
ARC provided by Little, Bfor honest review.
Unmarked (The Legion #2)
Kami Garcia
Pub: October 1, 2014
He is here... and he could be anyone.
Kennedy Waters lives in a world where vengeance spirits kill, ghosts keep secrets, and a demon walks among us–a demon she accidentally set free.
Now Kennedy and the other Legion members–Alara, Priest, Lukas, and Jared–have to hunt him down. As they learn more about the history of the Legion and the Illuminati, Kennedy realizes that the greatest mystery of all does not belong to any secret order, but to her own family. With the clock ticking and the life of someone she loves hanging in the balance, Kennedy has to ask the question she fears most: what is it about her past that has left her Unmarked?
Kennedy Waters would love nothing more than to hide away and pretend she wasn't directly responsible for releasing a horrible demon from his entrapment, but unfortunately, no one will let her - including the other members of Legion and Andras himself, who continually kills girls who resemble Kennedy. The Legion is at least willing to share in the mistake, but Kennedy is stubborn to let go. All they can do moving forward is to figure out why she hasn't gotten her mark, so the Legion seeks out clues to Kennedy's family past.
Turns out her family lines clash - she's both Legion and Illuminati, and though she wants nothing more than to be Legion with her newfound friends, it's impossible to taint their line with Illuminati blood, so what's an Illuminati girl falling in love with a Legion boy to do? And to make things even more difficult, Andras has taken possession of someone who's become dear to her heart.
Unmarked was another quick read by Kami Garcia, but lacked a little in the action department compared to Unbreakable. It was good to get a better idea of where this series is going, but I didn't feel this installment was written in a way that resolved anything other than learning why Kennedy didn't get her mark, which happened long before the story ended. I don't know...this novel and it's direction was just weird for me.
ARC provided by Little, Brown for honest review.
Kami Garcia
Pub.: October 1, 2014
I never believed in ghosts. Until one tried to kill me.When Kennedy Waters finds her mother dead, her world begins to unravel. She doesn’t know that paranormal forces in a much darker world are the ones pulling the strings. Not until identical twins Jared and Lukas Lockhart break into Kennedy’s room and destroy a dangerous spirit sent to kill her. The brothers reveal that her mother was part of an ancient secret society responsible for protecting the world from a vengeful demon — a society whose five members were all murdered on the same night.
Now Kennedy has to take her mother’s place in the Legion if she wants to uncover the truth and stay alive. Along with new Legion members Priest and Alara, the teens race to find the only weapon that might be able to destroy the demon — battling the deadly spirits he controls every step of the way.
Life was normal and easy-going before Kennedy came home to find her mother dead. She thought it was natural causes until she awoke to find her possessed cat sucking the life out of her. And the only reason she survived? Because two brothers were close by keeping an eye on her, and when she screamed, they came running in to help. They claimed to be part of a legion of modern day ghostbusters, a group which the next successors are chosen by the five current members. When all five were killed by the minions of a demon named Andras, the brothers and two others were activated. And so was Kennedy, if she could believe their wild tale. Though not entirely convinced, having a poltergeist blow up your home is pretty good motivation to give their crazy story a chance.
Enter Alara and Priest, the other two members of Legion. Going through their predecessors journals, they learn of a weapon called the shift that could take Andras down, but it's been separated into several pieces and left in the possession of vengeance spirits. Following the clues left at each site, the members one by one kill a vengeance spirit using their specialty skill and earn their fifth of the Andras seal on their forearm. But once Kennedy fulfills her part, its not the seal she earns for killing the ghost and completing the weapon, but something none of them could see coming.
If you're looking for paranormal story that reads a lot like the hit show Supernatural, you'll probably be happy enough with this novel. There is the workings of a love triangle between Kennedy and the twins, but still pretty light on actual romance in this first installment. Unbreakable was a really fast read that'll keep your attention from beginning to end, so check it out if ghostbustin' tops your genre list.
ARC provided by Little, Bfor honest review.
Unmarked (The Legion #2)
Kami Garcia
Pub: October 1, 2014
He is here... and he could be anyone.Kennedy Waters lives in a world where vengeance spirits kill, ghosts keep secrets, and a demon walks among us–a demon she accidentally set free.
Now Kennedy and the other Legion members–Alara, Priest, Lukas, and Jared–have to hunt him down. As they learn more about the history of the Legion and the Illuminati, Kennedy realizes that the greatest mystery of all does not belong to any secret order, but to her own family. With the clock ticking and the life of someone she loves hanging in the balance, Kennedy has to ask the question she fears most: what is it about her past that has left her Unmarked?
Kennedy Waters would love nothing more than to hide away and pretend she wasn't directly responsible for releasing a horrible demon from his entrapment, but unfortunately, no one will let her - including the other members of Legion and Andras himself, who continually kills girls who resemble Kennedy. The Legion is at least willing to share in the mistake, but Kennedy is stubborn to let go. All they can do moving forward is to figure out why she hasn't gotten her mark, so the Legion seeks out clues to Kennedy's family past.
Turns out her family lines clash - she's both Legion and Illuminati, and though she wants nothing more than to be Legion with her newfound friends, it's impossible to taint their line with Illuminati blood, so what's an Illuminati girl falling in love with a Legion boy to do? And to make things even more difficult, Andras has taken possession of someone who's become dear to her heart.
Unmarked was another quick read by Kami Garcia, but lacked a little in the action department compared to Unbreakable. It was good to get a better idea of where this series is going, but I didn't feel this installment was written in a way that resolved anything other than learning why Kennedy didn't get her mark, which happened long before the story ended. I don't know...this novel and it's direction was just weird for me.
ARC provided by Little, Brown for honest review.
October 13, 2014
Stitching Snow by R.C. Lewis (ARC)
Stitching Snow
R.C. Lewis
Pub.: October 14, 2014 TOMORROW!
Princess Snow is missing.
Her home planet is filled with violence and corruption at the hands of King Matthias and his wife as they attempt to punish her captors. The king will stop at nothing to get his beloved daughter back—but that’s assuming she wants to return at all.
Essie has grown used to being cold. Temperatures on the planet Thanda are always sub-zero, and she fills her days with coding and repairs for the seven loyal drones that run the local mines.
When a mysterious young man named Dane crash-lands near her home, Essie agrees to help the pilot repair his ship. But soon she realizes that Dane’s arrival was far from accidental, and she’s pulled into the heart of a war she’s risked everything to avoid. With the galaxy’s future—and her own—in jeopardy, Essie must choose who to trust in a fiery fight for survival.
Stitching Snow was a fresh take on the popular fairy tale that had a cool Star Wars kind of vibe to it. Essie (Princess Snow) has been in hiding the past eight years in a remote part of Thanda, a mining planet where only those in need of work ever travel. She's learned to survive by tinkering and stitching her own set of robots which are used to help keep the miners from going too deep into dangerous territory, and for extra money, Snow takes part in fighting matches with the men transitioning through. Essie was good with this life. It was predictable, and in a way, safe. At least until a ship crashed nearby. With no mechanics nearby, it's up to Essie to stitch up Dane's ship to get him back in the sky. But he's not who he seems, which Essie figures out all too late, and she's forced to return to a dangerous world where everyone has a hidden agenda and the royals are only all too happy to pick up where they left off - needing Princess Snow dead.
Unique and engaging, Stitching Snow will keep you glued to the pages as Essie tries desperately to survive this messed up universe of greed and power, all while struggling with these romantic notions suddenly sprouting for the most unlikely suitor. And best part of all, it's a standalone so no pesky waiting period to see how it all unfolds.
ARC provided by Disney-Hyperion for honest review.
R.C. Lewis
Pub.: October 14, 2014 TOMORROW!
Princess Snow is missing.Her home planet is filled with violence and corruption at the hands of King Matthias and his wife as they attempt to punish her captors. The king will stop at nothing to get his beloved daughter back—but that’s assuming she wants to return at all.
Essie has grown used to being cold. Temperatures on the planet Thanda are always sub-zero, and she fills her days with coding and repairs for the seven loyal drones that run the local mines.
When a mysterious young man named Dane crash-lands near her home, Essie agrees to help the pilot repair his ship. But soon she realizes that Dane’s arrival was far from accidental, and she’s pulled into the heart of a war she’s risked everything to avoid. With the galaxy’s future—and her own—in jeopardy, Essie must choose who to trust in a fiery fight for survival.
Stitching Snow was a fresh take on the popular fairy tale that had a cool Star Wars kind of vibe to it. Essie (Princess Snow) has been in hiding the past eight years in a remote part of Thanda, a mining planet where only those in need of work ever travel. She's learned to survive by tinkering and stitching her own set of robots which are used to help keep the miners from going too deep into dangerous territory, and for extra money, Snow takes part in fighting matches with the men transitioning through. Essie was good with this life. It was predictable, and in a way, safe. At least until a ship crashed nearby. With no mechanics nearby, it's up to Essie to stitch up Dane's ship to get him back in the sky. But he's not who he seems, which Essie figures out all too late, and she's forced to return to a dangerous world where everyone has a hidden agenda and the royals are only all too happy to pick up where they left off - needing Princess Snow dead.
Unique and engaging, Stitching Snow will keep you glued to the pages as Essie tries desperately to survive this messed up universe of greed and power, all while struggling with these romantic notions suddenly sprouting for the most unlikely suitor. And best part of all, it's a standalone so no pesky waiting period to see how it all unfolds.
ARC provided by Disney-Hyperion for honest review.
October 8, 2014
Whisper the Dead by Alyxandra Harvey (ARC)
Whisper the Dead (The Lovegrove Legacy #2)
Alyxandra Harvey
Exp. Pub.: October 9, 2014 Tomorrow!!!
Gretchen is struggling with her newfound gift as a Whisperer; the constant buzzing in her ears from detecting spells is more frustrating than fun, especially when she is spending time with one of the Order of Iron Nail's Keepers, the icy but strikingly handsome Tobias Lawless. But while Gretchen tries to hide the truth and resolve her feelings for him, London fades from beautiful and bustling to deathly silent ...Something evil is once again menacing Mayfair, and Gretchen and her cousins must use their powers to prevent a horrible sacrifice.
The Lovegrove cousins are back after bottling the Greymalkin sisters into magical containments. Whisper the Dead focuses more on Gretchen this time as she tries to learn her craft - whispers tell her what type of spells are being cast and if anything can be used to make a particular spell stronger. She tries to focus her power into discovering why the wards in the city are going haywire and why elements once contained in certain areas are expanding their turf. But having constant supervision by the Keepers isn't helping her become more attuned to anything other than her rising agitation for her personal new shadow, Tobias Lawless. Hmm... Where to begin. I liked this story, I did. But something felt off about it. I had no problem putting it aside to read other books, which is rare for me when I actually like the story enough. I love Gretchen and Emma especially, and I have the feeling Penelope will get her turn to shine in the third installment. And I love their beaus. Cormac is perfectly sweet for Emma and Tobias is just the kick in the skirt Gretchen needs, and vice versa. Quite honestly, the relationships are what keep me intrigued enough to continue the story, because there are so many things thrown at me I just find confusing. Especially all the magical charms and spell ingredients. Every time I turn around some obscure object is used to ward off something else. Pretty soon I'm sure an chocolate-coated acorn will be used to scare away a squirrel. How the hell do they keep it all straight, because it lacks consistency. Still, the main plot circling the Lovegrove cousins and the Greymalkin sisters is interesting enough to see where this is going to go.
ARC provided by Bloomsbury Childrens for honest review.
Alyxandra Harvey
Exp. Pub.: October 9, 2014 Tomorrow!!!
Gretchen is struggling with her newfound gift as a Whisperer; the constant buzzing in her ears from detecting spells is more frustrating than fun, especially when she is spending time with one of the Order of Iron Nail's Keepers, the icy but strikingly handsome Tobias Lawless. But while Gretchen tries to hide the truth and resolve her feelings for him, London fades from beautiful and bustling to deathly silent ...Something evil is once again menacing Mayfair, and Gretchen and her cousins must use their powers to prevent a horrible sacrifice.The Lovegrove cousins are back after bottling the Greymalkin sisters into magical containments. Whisper the Dead focuses more on Gretchen this time as she tries to learn her craft - whispers tell her what type of spells are being cast and if anything can be used to make a particular spell stronger. She tries to focus her power into discovering why the wards in the city are going haywire and why elements once contained in certain areas are expanding their turf. But having constant supervision by the Keepers isn't helping her become more attuned to anything other than her rising agitation for her personal new shadow, Tobias Lawless. Hmm... Where to begin. I liked this story, I did. But something felt off about it. I had no problem putting it aside to read other books, which is rare for me when I actually like the story enough. I love Gretchen and Emma especially, and I have the feeling Penelope will get her turn to shine in the third installment. And I love their beaus. Cormac is perfectly sweet for Emma and Tobias is just the kick in the skirt Gretchen needs, and vice versa. Quite honestly, the relationships are what keep me intrigued enough to continue the story, because there are so many things thrown at me I just find confusing. Especially all the magical charms and spell ingredients. Every time I turn around some obscure object is used to ward off something else. Pretty soon I'm sure an chocolate-coated acorn will be used to scare away a squirrel. How the hell do they keep it all straight, because it lacks consistency. Still, the main plot circling the Lovegrove cousins and the Greymalkin sisters is interesting enough to see where this is going to go.
ARC provided by Bloomsbury Childrens for honest review.
September 25, 2014
Before He Was Gone (Starstruck #2)Becky WicksPub.: August...
Before He Was Gone (Starstruck #2)
Becky Wicks
Pub.: August 25, 2014
Sometimes, you have to get lost to find yourself...
When her rock star boyfriend breaks things off out of the blue, Alyssa applies to hit reality TV show Deserted and to her shock she gets through. Abandoned on a remote island with a bunch of strangers and none of the luxuries she’s become accustomed to, it’s not long before an undeniable attraction to the mysterious Joshua starts complicating things even further.
Joshua's different to everyone she's ever known - a traveler, a man with no plan, a world away from the celebrity life she's left behind. As a series of challenges test their wits and weaknesses, things start heating up in paradise, but in a game designed to break people down, it soon becomes clear that Joshua is hiding a painful secret - one he won’t risk anyone finding out.
Struggling to know where she belongs, Alyssa will have to choose - a life she once loved that wants her back, or a brand new reality that heartbreakingly may just have its limits. This was a cute story. I'm not typically a fan of reality television, especially the programs like the show this book focuses on, but I enjoyed the first in this series enough to give it a go. Alyssa's just looking to get away from the media backlashed associated with her celebrity boyfriend breakup and possibly earn the million dollar prize to pay for cooking school and open a restaurant. Joshua's got his own reasons for the money, but isn't keen on sharing - about anything, in fact. The two actually catch sight of one another before the show and can't help but find the other attractive, but once they're thrown together on a deserted island with eight other contestants, they realize there's more to want than just good looks. Suddenly, Alyssa finds herself not only trying to get herself into the finale, but Joshua too, whose secrets may very well derail her. I felt the end was this novel was a bit abrupt. I know the story focuses on the reality show itself, but I would've enjoyed getting a chapter or two witnessing this couple trying to adjust to having a relationship sans deserted island. Also, it all wrapped up a little too easily, you know what I mean? I was actually surprised to find no resistance in Joshua's decision. It wasn't really difficult to figure out his secret so there wasn't really any suspense to the story, but like I said in the beginning, it's still a cute love story and worth picking up.
ARC provided by publisher for honest review.
Becky Wicks
Pub.: August 25, 2014
Sometimes, you have to get lost to find yourself...When her rock star boyfriend breaks things off out of the blue, Alyssa applies to hit reality TV show Deserted and to her shock she gets through. Abandoned on a remote island with a bunch of strangers and none of the luxuries she’s become accustomed to, it’s not long before an undeniable attraction to the mysterious Joshua starts complicating things even further.
Joshua's different to everyone she's ever known - a traveler, a man with no plan, a world away from the celebrity life she's left behind. As a series of challenges test their wits and weaknesses, things start heating up in paradise, but in a game designed to break people down, it soon becomes clear that Joshua is hiding a painful secret - one he won’t risk anyone finding out.
Struggling to know where she belongs, Alyssa will have to choose - a life she once loved that wants her back, or a brand new reality that heartbreakingly may just have its limits. This was a cute story. I'm not typically a fan of reality television, especially the programs like the show this book focuses on, but I enjoyed the first in this series enough to give it a go. Alyssa's just looking to get away from the media backlashed associated with her celebrity boyfriend breakup and possibly earn the million dollar prize to pay for cooking school and open a restaurant. Joshua's got his own reasons for the money, but isn't keen on sharing - about anything, in fact. The two actually catch sight of one another before the show and can't help but find the other attractive, but once they're thrown together on a deserted island with eight other contestants, they realize there's more to want than just good looks. Suddenly, Alyssa finds herself not only trying to get herself into the finale, but Joshua too, whose secrets may very well derail her. I felt the end was this novel was a bit abrupt. I know the story focuses on the reality show itself, but I would've enjoyed getting a chapter or two witnessing this couple trying to adjust to having a relationship sans deserted island. Also, it all wrapped up a little too easily, you know what I mean? I was actually surprised to find no resistance in Joshua's decision. It wasn't really difficult to figure out his secret so there wasn't really any suspense to the story, but like I said in the beginning, it's still a cute love story and worth picking up.
ARC provided by publisher for honest review.
September 21, 2014
New Changes to the Crazy Dream Blog...
Howdy guys. If you're taking a look around my blog and wondering "What the hell?", then you've noticed a few changes. I've decided to segregate my review blog from my own work. So from here on out, you can find all the deets on my novels over at my Author Website. Book reviews will continue to be posted here. Toodle-loo!
September 15, 2014
Facing the Music by Andrea Laurence (ARC)
Facing the Music
Andrea Laurence
Exp. Pub.: September 15, 2014 TODAY!!!
In this sizzling and hilarious contemporary e-book romance, pop sensation Ivy Hudson returns to her small town to face her ex. Only trouble is, she made her Taylor-Swift-like career with the hit song “Size Matters”—and the football hero has had to live it down ever since.
Five years ago, high school sweethearts Ivy and Blake’s relationship imploded and both their lives were changed forever. Ivy became a rock star and Blake lost not only his dreams of a successful NFL career, but his reputation. Ivy’s angry song about their breakup, called “Size Matters,” hit the top of the charts and Blake became a national laughingstock. He’s salvaged his career and returned to Rosewood to be the high school football coach, regaining his status as town hero and leading the boys to the state championships.
When a tornado whips through town and destroys the high school gymnasium and stadium, a committee is formed to help rebuild and plan some charity fundraisers. Blake’s grandmother requests that Ivy return to Rosewood for the events. Forced back together for the good of their hometown and their careers, Ivy and Blake have no choice but to put aside their differences, stop running from their pasts, and finally face the music.
Ivy Hudson's song "Size Matters' had nothing to do with Blake's package size, but that didn't keep the world from thinking it so. Humiliated, poor Blake screwed up his Heisman moment and blew the big game, earning him a nice, cushy bench seat in the NFL. Didn't matter anyways, as a bad hit blew his knee out indefinitely. Now back in his home town heading up the football team, he was finally getting his life on track. Until Mother Nature was a bitch and took his field, and the town thought it'd be a great idea for the woman who made Blake a world-wide laughingstock to come home and help with a two week fundraiser to help rebuild. Bad part was, no one told either one of them they'd been paired to co-host the entire event, from riding in the parade to being the queen and king of a second-chance prom-themed dance. Love hurts. Especially the love of two people who had never completely given up on the other, but with humiliating betrayals on both fronts, who should have to suck it up and apologize first?
This is just your typical NA novel; quick and predictable with some definite cheese in the end. You've got your ridiculously successful, yet totally insecure, leading lady, the lover who broke her heart and the other woman who just can't seem to keep from playing interference. That said, I still really enjoyed it. I think most people will, provided they don't expect to be wowed or given anything truly original to read. There are definitely some funny moments, and the characters did keep me intrigued despite their predictable actions and emotions. It's a good, light read if that's what you're in the mood for. So go ahead, give it a go...
ARC provided by Pocket Star for honest review.
Andrea Laurence
Exp. Pub.: September 15, 2014 TODAY!!!
In this sizzling and hilarious contemporary e-book romance, pop sensation Ivy Hudson returns to her small town to face her ex. Only trouble is, she made her Taylor-Swift-like career with the hit song “Size Matters”—and the football hero has had to live it down ever since.Five years ago, high school sweethearts Ivy and Blake’s relationship imploded and both their lives were changed forever. Ivy became a rock star and Blake lost not only his dreams of a successful NFL career, but his reputation. Ivy’s angry song about their breakup, called “Size Matters,” hit the top of the charts and Blake became a national laughingstock. He’s salvaged his career and returned to Rosewood to be the high school football coach, regaining his status as town hero and leading the boys to the state championships.
When a tornado whips through town and destroys the high school gymnasium and stadium, a committee is formed to help rebuild and plan some charity fundraisers. Blake’s grandmother requests that Ivy return to Rosewood for the events. Forced back together for the good of their hometown and their careers, Ivy and Blake have no choice but to put aside their differences, stop running from their pasts, and finally face the music.
Ivy Hudson's song "Size Matters' had nothing to do with Blake's package size, but that didn't keep the world from thinking it so. Humiliated, poor Blake screwed up his Heisman moment and blew the big game, earning him a nice, cushy bench seat in the NFL. Didn't matter anyways, as a bad hit blew his knee out indefinitely. Now back in his home town heading up the football team, he was finally getting his life on track. Until Mother Nature was a bitch and took his field, and the town thought it'd be a great idea for the woman who made Blake a world-wide laughingstock to come home and help with a two week fundraiser to help rebuild. Bad part was, no one told either one of them they'd been paired to co-host the entire event, from riding in the parade to being the queen and king of a second-chance prom-themed dance. Love hurts. Especially the love of two people who had never completely given up on the other, but with humiliating betrayals on both fronts, who should have to suck it up and apologize first?
This is just your typical NA novel; quick and predictable with some definite cheese in the end. You've got your ridiculously successful, yet totally insecure, leading lady, the lover who broke her heart and the other woman who just can't seem to keep from playing interference. That said, I still really enjoyed it. I think most people will, provided they don't expect to be wowed or given anything truly original to read. There are definitely some funny moments, and the characters did keep me intrigued despite their predictable actions and emotions. It's a good, light read if that's what you're in the mood for. So go ahead, give it a go...
ARC provided by Pocket Star for honest review.
August 13, 2014
Nearly Undone Cover Reveal
The Nearly Trilogy is coming to a close. Bummer, really. Though incredibly difficult to write at times, this series has been a blessing. It’s brought me a slew of new readers, and judging by all the reviews, I’ve come really far as a writer – one who can engage readers on such an emotional level that they feel everything as if they were right there themselves. Which given the subject matter can be quite disturbing! And I hope I continue growing and churning out stories you love, because I want to keep writing for a very long time!
But right now, it’s time for another cover reveal. If you haven’t caught it yet, the covers for the Nearly books have shown you different couples. Nearly Broken: Megan and Nick Nearly Mended: Natalie and Zander and now…Nearly Undone: Thea and Friggs, with Megan on the back.Also, the second POV for Nearly Undone will go to Thea this time, so you'll get an idea of what life is like for a slave who's caught the special attention of Friggs, who's already bitter for losing out on Megan. (shivers...) If you thought Nearly Broken was an uncomfortable read, don’t read Nearly Mended! And for the love of puppies everywhere, if you couldn’t stomach Nearly Mended because you thought those scenes were atrocious, do not read Nearly Undone, ‘cause things are about to get way more sinister in the finale.
Click for full size. I'd risk anything to save her – even my freedom.Megan Whitaker thought she had them beat – and then everything went to shit. Zander got to walk and Friggs was in the wind, and unfortunately, both were still hell-bent on making her his. Megan and Nick might’ve given Friggs the slip by hiding away in witness protection, but when Thea goes missing, nothing will keep Megan away. Not when her sister’s abduction was her fault.Thea Whitaker’s dark new reality was something made of nightmares. Friggs might’ve only stolen her to lure out her sister, but it doesn’t keep the sadistic man from taking out his issues on her. Now it’s her turn to be on the receiving end of unspeakable acts, and though she prays her sister can find a way to free her, Thea also fears it, because she knows if Megan fails, Friggs’ will never let either of them go. With Thea lost and no hope in sight, Megan begrudgingly beseeches the help of the one man who has the connections to find her. But enlisting Zander’s help will come at a price, and for Megan and Nick, it might just cost them everything they’ve been fighting so hard to hold on to.
Add to GoodReads.
August 11, 2014
Virgin by Radhika Sanghani (ARC)
Virgin
Radhika Sanghani
Pub.: August 5, 2014
Okay, I admit it…I didn’t do it.
Yet.
This is normal, right? I mean, just because everyone I know has talked like they’ve already done it doesn’t mean that they’re telling the truth…right?
It’s not like I’m asking for that much. I don’t need the perfect guy. I don’t need candlelight or roses. Honestly, I don’t even need a real bed.
The guys I know complain that girls are always looking for Mr. Right—do I have to wear a sign that says I’m only looking for Mr. Right Now?
Sooooo…anyone out there want sex? Anyone? Hello? Just for fun?
I am not going to die a virgin. One way or another I am going to make this happen.
Hey, what have I got to lose? Besides the obvious
Ellie is a twenty-one year old virgin. GASP!
Yeah, no, it's not really a of an big issue, but for Ellie it is. She had a traumatizing moment four years prior that has made her feel like she's cursed when it comes to guys. Guys like her. Guys are willing to kiss her. But guys aren't willing to take her home with them. Like a gigantic V is inked on her forehead and they don't wanna deal with breaking her in to the sexual world. Of course that isn't true, but it sure as hell feels like it, right? So Ellie makes a plan to lose her virginity by college graduation, even if it means losing it to a one night stand. But when she finally gets a guy to take her to bed, it's a deja' vu experience. Will poor Ellie ever find someone willing to shag her?
Reading this made me recall my own path to de-virgination, although I wasn't stressed or bothered enough to actually map out a plan to make it happen like this poor girl. Like Ellie's dilemma, people were talking about doing things, but not really explaining what that thing was. Lots of words confused me back then but hell if I was gonna ask! But unlike her, I didn't have the internet to fall back on. It was too new and you sure as hell wasn't going to find these topics gracing the infinite cloud or hanging out in a library book. Nope. No pornos to put on, no downloadable how-to BJ video so you knew what to do ahead of time. Nope. We were all on our own. Isn't the internet nice peeps? So private - sort of...
Virgin definitely some laugh-out-loud and shameful moments that some people may be able to relate to - hopefully no one will relate to that horrible bathroom scene though! It was a fun read but Ellie came off a bit desperate at times to lose her V-card. Seriously, it's not that big of a deal peeps. If you're still a virgin, rock on. It'll happen when it happens. Doesn't mean there's anything wrong with you.
ARC provided by Berkley for honest review.
Radhika Sanghani
Pub.: August 5, 2014
Okay, I admit it…I didn’t do it.Yet.
This is normal, right? I mean, just because everyone I know has talked like they’ve already done it doesn’t mean that they’re telling the truth…right?
It’s not like I’m asking for that much. I don’t need the perfect guy. I don’t need candlelight or roses. Honestly, I don’t even need a real bed.
The guys I know complain that girls are always looking for Mr. Right—do I have to wear a sign that says I’m only looking for Mr. Right Now?
Sooooo…anyone out there want sex? Anyone? Hello? Just for fun?
I am not going to die a virgin. One way or another I am going to make this happen.
Hey, what have I got to lose? Besides the obvious
Ellie is a twenty-one year old virgin. GASP!
Yeah, no, it's not really a of an big issue, but for Ellie it is. She had a traumatizing moment four years prior that has made her feel like she's cursed when it comes to guys. Guys like her. Guys are willing to kiss her. But guys aren't willing to take her home with them. Like a gigantic V is inked on her forehead and they don't wanna deal with breaking her in to the sexual world. Of course that isn't true, but it sure as hell feels like it, right? So Ellie makes a plan to lose her virginity by college graduation, even if it means losing it to a one night stand. But when she finally gets a guy to take her to bed, it's a deja' vu experience. Will poor Ellie ever find someone willing to shag her?
Reading this made me recall my own path to de-virgination, although I wasn't stressed or bothered enough to actually map out a plan to make it happen like this poor girl. Like Ellie's dilemma, people were talking about doing things, but not really explaining what that thing was. Lots of words confused me back then but hell if I was gonna ask! But unlike her, I didn't have the internet to fall back on. It was too new and you sure as hell wasn't going to find these topics gracing the infinite cloud or hanging out in a library book. Nope. No pornos to put on, no downloadable how-to BJ video so you knew what to do ahead of time. Nope. We were all on our own. Isn't the internet nice peeps? So private - sort of...
Virgin definitely some laugh-out-loud and shameful moments that some people may be able to relate to - hopefully no one will relate to that horrible bathroom scene though! It was a fun read but Ellie came off a bit desperate at times to lose her V-card. Seriously, it's not that big of a deal peeps. If you're still a virgin, rock on. It'll happen when it happens. Doesn't mean there's anything wrong with you.
ARC provided by Berkley for honest review.
