Pick-a-Shelf discussion

*

Rolls/Books Outstanding:

my shelf

Roll two dice:

https://www.random.org/dice/

Roll #1: COMPLETED
11/30/16 @8:15 pm

4 + 4 = 8
Woodstock on Ice

Picks by Coralie

Stamped from the Beginning: The Definitive History of Racist Ideas in America
The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo
Staked

will read:

The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo
date completed: 12/3/16
rating: *4.5 STARS*

What in the world did I get myself into?

The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo - Stieg Larsson *4.5 STARS*

So, wow. This was so much better than I thought it was going to be. I know that people either loved or hated this but I was in the "love" category. This was so convoluted, interesting, and gripping. I have to admit the beginning was a bit dry for me. The financial reporting part of it wasn't so interesting, but it quickly morphed into this whole other story. I wasn't sure how the financial part and the missing person part were going to morph together, but man I loved the way it did.

I was nervous about reading this because I had so many other people talk about the way that women are treated in the book. And, yes, if you have triggers this probably wouldn't be the book for you. There is a lot of violence toward women in this book. I'm not sure I felt that it added to Lisbeth's story, but it did explain how fierce she was in the end. As for the other instances, I think that they were integral to the story and while they were difficult to listen to, I was thinking about what it meant for the story.

And, personally, I thought that Lisbeth was the biggest surprise. A total badass. I can't wait to see how she will evolve over the trilogy. I'm not sure how I felt about Mikael's character. Sometimes I felt like he was so weak, and other times I respected his strength. And I've got to tell you, that family, the Vanger family, was a piece of work. I wonder if they are going to crop up again in the subsequent books.

I will definitely be continuing on with this series. I don't think I will jump right into the next book, there was so much here that I think I need to decompress a bit, read some light and fluffy material for a few weeks, then I can head back into this one. We'll see.

I listened to this one on audio and I thought that Simon Vance did an amazing job. I look forward to listening to him in the next one.

Roll #2: COMPLETED
11/30/16 @ 8:47 pm

3 + 1 = 4
Bus Stop

Rolled 3+1 (again!) = Contemporary Romance

#Nerd (shelved contemporary-romance 69 times) completed 12/10/16 *4 STARS*

#So cute!


#Nerd (The Hashtag Series Book 1) - Cambria Hebert

Awww, so cute. I really liked this one. I loved Romeo and Rimmel even though I saw the story line coming from a mile away. Just a sweet and adorable college romance with some drama thrown in. I KNOW things can't be over for them, so I'm definitely going to go on to book #2.

Roll #3: COMPLETED

12/2/16

4 +2 = 6
Tug-Of-War

Picks by Tien

A Court of Mist and Fury
Feverborn
Furiously Happy: A Funny Book About Horrible Things

will read:

Furiously Happy: A Funny Book About Horrible Things (352 pages)



completed 12/4/16

I feel like I need a little a brain rest now.

Furiously Happy: A Funny Book About Horrible Things - Jenny Lawson



*3.5 STARS*

Let me start by saying, I think I would have done better with reading this instead of listening to the audiobook on this one. I actually like the author's voice and personality. But in this instance, I think it was just too much.

Everything was like one big word salad, and at first, I thought it was hilarious, but after a while, it just became...too much (yes, I know I said that already but there really is no better way to describe it).

I have to give the author props for taking hold of her mental illness(es) and figuring out a way to go forward with her life in a way THAT WORKS FOR HER. That's the key, this is what she does and is not meant for everyone.

What I do want to make note of here is that she sees a Psychiatrist and therapist regular and is under supervision. And she does not make light of how important it is to seek help.

And though she had me banging my head up against a wall at one point because she had gone so off tangent, I really do respect her for how she's been her own advocate. And she's trying to take the stigma out of mental illness which is so needed in this county. More people would get the help they need if we could stop shaming people into the dark.

Roll #4: COMPLETED

12/4/16 @ 11:50 AM

2 + 3 = 5
Jumping Rope

Picks by Danielle:

Anything but Minor
The Shameless Hour
Skinwalker

I'll go with:

The Shameless Hour completed 12/9/16 *4.5 STARS*

A Message That's More Than About College Love

The Shameless Hour (The Ivy Years Book 4) - Sarina Bowen

I have to say from the outset, that I've really enjoyed this series so far. I am really amazed at how much I have come to care for these characters. And, honestly, I didn't think that Sarina Bowen would be able to do anything nearly as good as the first book in the series, but she's proved me wrong time and time again.

But here's the thing. I wasn't all that interested in Bella's character. Was I "slut-shaming" (for the record, I don't like the term because I feel like it is doing the very thing that you say you shouldn't do) her? I don't think so. That's not why I didn't like her. She just wasn't someone that I connected to or thought of as having any depth.

And, I think that I should have realized the author was going to make me eat my words...again. And eat those words, I did. This book was powerful. It was thought-provoking, it made me gut-check my own feelings several times, and it seemed fitting for today, right now, when we are having conversations in the U.S. about men of privilege and how they treat women.

So, we had all of these things going on in this story and that is not even dealing with the love developing between Rafe and Bella which was so sweet. And that's why this book resonated with me the way that it did. We have Bella,who has been just violated in a way that I am sure she didn't see coming, her life is a mess and she doesn't know if she will ever be able to look at the world the same way again. But, in the midst of that, something so sweet and pure grows out of it. Isn't that they way it always works? I'm just glad that she got her act together to see it for what it was before she pushed Rafe away for good (but knowing his stubborn behind, we wouldn't have let her push him away).

I was so wary about the story because some people were turned off by the way that Bella responded to "the thing" (I don't want to give away too much). They didn't feel that she was strong enough, but I think that's tone deaf. No one can say how they would respond to something like that. I think that the author gave the story a lot of authenticity by the way Bella's character responded.

Ultimately, I thought this was an amazing story. It's probably my second favorite of the series, the first book still holds the title for my favorite of the series. I never would have thought that any book about Bella would be so good. So, thank you Sarina Bowen for making a believer out of me.

Roll #5: COMPLETED
12/4/16 @ 8:35 pm

5 + 1 = 6
Snoopy

Picks by Dee:

Curtsies & Conspiracies
The Evolution of Calpurnia Tate
The Fifteenth Minute


I'll go with:

Curtsies & Conspiracies


completed 12/8/16

*4.5 + STARS*

Book the Second Indeed!

Curtsies & Conspiracies - Gail Carriger

This was such a great follow up to the first book in the Finishing School Series. Sophronia is up to her usual tricks, and there are new adventures to be had. I loved the situations that Sophronia and her girls get up to. But the best part of this was the fact that there were even some boys involved! And Miss Sophronia was getting the feels too.

The vast conspiracies abounded and of course, Sophronia was the the one who was able to put it all together. The way that the author is able to seamlessly weave all the moving parts to the plot together is so amazing. I could just get drawn in for hours.

Add to that the fact that I was listening to this on audio and seriously, I was in heaven. Moira Quirk does a fantastic job with the narration. The way she can just project so many feelings into what she's saying just by changing her accent is amazing. I could listen to her read just about anything.

Obviously, I have to continue on with this series. Things are just starting to come to light, and there's a new school year coming, sure to be full of new girls, new lessons, and new adventures!

Roll #6: COMPLETED
12/8/16 @ 1:14 pm

2 + 3 = 5
Kite-Eating Tree

Rolled again got 2, 5: Mythology

Staked
Shelved "mythology" 4 times completed 12/16/16 *4 STARS*

completed 12/16/16

Not my favorite installment but really good. Lots of moving parts in this one and that's probably why I wasn't as fond of it. I miss the old days where it was Atticus against the world.

Roll #7: COMPLETED
12/9/16 @ 8:36 am

5 + 1 = 6
JAIL / Just Visiting
a word in title that's at least 3 syllables

The Law of ATTRACTION 12/9/16 *4 STARS*

Stories like this should be the law!
The Law of Attraction - Jay Northcote

This is one of those stories that instantly drew me in. Alec and Ed hook up one night and then meet up again when Ed starts work at Alec's place of business. We've heard that story before right?

But, this went beyond that. There was so much more there. Alec is in the closet and there's a whole thing around that, and Ed has never really found a guy he's meshed with. So, we are dealing with all of these emotions and they are trying to deal with them plus deal with working with each other. And it was just done so incredibly well.

I loved the story from beginning to end. I have two complaints though. First has nothing to do with the story but the narrator did a horrible job with what was supposed to be a Spanish accent on a female co-worker. It was entirely distracting. The second is that the story was too short. It ended just when they were beginning. I would have liked to see beyond the initial HFN to see how things worked out long term.

Other than that though, this story was just so wonderful. It made me feel all warm and fuzzy, and I loved that these two were able to get together. Jay Northcote always has these characters that you just fall in love with. She really knows how to get me right in the heart. And this story was no exception.

Roll #8: COMPLETED
12/9/16 @ 7:38 pm

6 +2 = 8
Tug-of-War
I own that property so free choice from bookopoly shelf

Once a Bridesmaid completed 12/9/16 *4 STARS*

I liked this one, I did but I was not happy with the conflict and how it was resolved. I know the reasons why Lauren freaked out, but I still thought it was childish and short-sighted.

But, I loved everything else about the book, so I gave it 4 stars. I really liked both Erin and Lauren. I'm sad that their tales will be ending. Is it possible that our professional groomsman Dylan will be able to get a book?

Roll #9: COMPLETED
12/10/16 @ 5:27 pm

6 + 5 = 11
Lucy in Love

Picks by ✼Danielle✼

The Fifteenth Minute (The Ivy Years, #5) by Sarina Bowen
The Hook Up (Game On, #1) by Kristen Callihan
The Chemist by Stephenie Meyer

Going with

The Hook Up completed 12/11/16 *4 STARS*

Cute...but frustrating

The Hook Up (Game On) (Volume 1) - Kristen Callihan

This one was cute, but, it frustrated me how little the two of the them talk which of course led to their break up. I think they still would have broken up but Anna didn't let Drew know her at all it seemed.

Otherwise, I really enjoyed this and really look forward to continuing the series.

Roll #10: COMPLETED

12/10/16 @ 5:56 pm

3 + 5 = 8
Flying Ace

Picks by Catherine:

Waistcoats & Weaponry
Landline
The Viscount Who Loved Me

I pick Waistcoats & Weaponry completed 12/26/16 *5 STARS*

Oh Sophronia!
Waistcoats & Weaponry - Gail Carriger

I just adore this series and this book was no different. There was so much happening in this third book of the Finishing School Series, it was like something new with every page. It kept me engaged and definitely kept me guessing. I have to admit that I didn't get the plot right. I was way off base. But, it was fun trying to figure it all out.

We have some members of the "team" moving on at the end of this book and some who we are quite sure of at this point. I can't wait to see what's going to happen in the next book. I for one am kind of rooting for the more unconventional relationship in all of this.

I've continued to listen to this series on audio and Moira Quirk is amazing. I can't imaging not listening to it. The delivery is perfect, and I could never do her characters justice in my head.

Roll #11: COMPLETED

12/11/16 @ 10:26 am

6 + 4 = 10
Psychiatric Booth
new roll for task: 4 + 3 = 7
7. Sort your shelf by date added and read a book most recently added (you may choose out of your latest 5)

Purity in Death added 12/9/16
completed 12/19/16 *4.5 STARS*

Fantastic Series + Fantastic Narrator = MAGIC

Purity in Death - J.D. Robb

*4.5 STARS*

I really love this series. I love Susan Eriksen narrating it even more.This whole concept of the Purity Seekers was eerie and so fitting even for today. It was interesting. People thinking that they have the right of it and go out and make their own justice.Eve's sense of right and wrong was really pushed to her limit here. I know how hard the case must have been. She couldn't have been too fond of the people that were being targeted but because she does her job, she put those feelings aside to catch the killers.

Then there was Mavis's big news! Totally MAG!

Add to that, McNabb and Peabody's issues during the book, and this one was great.

I can't wait to continue with this series.

Roll #12: COMPLETED
12/16/17 @ 3 pm
4 + 2 = 6
French Cafe
new roll for task:
4 + 6 = 10

Suspense
Broken (shelved suspense 10 times) completed 12/17/16 *3.5 STARS*

I had some serious complaints about this book. I didn't like the writing style. It switches from first person to third. And for some the non-use of contractions really irked my nerves. But there was thing that I couldn't deny...the story had me gripped. I did like the story and I will likely continue on.

Damn woman! You are on a roll!

Dee wrote: "Damn woman! You are on a roll!"

I'm nothing like some of the other people playing. LOL

Roll #13: COMPLETED
12/18/16 @ 5:31 pm
2+ 4 = 6
Best Friends

Picks by Marina

The Evolution of Calpurnia Tate
The Girl on the Train
Landline

tentative pick

The Girl on the Train 1/2/17 *3 STARS*

So yeah, that happened. I don't even know where to begin with this one. Absolutely NO ONE in this book had any redeeming value. If you ask me they all deserved each other. I just can not believe this book.

The beginning of the book dragged for me. There were a few times when I was going to bail. Just have to sit through a depressed drunk ride back and forth on train lamenting how awful her life was seriously made me just want to throw in the towel. It started to pick up though, but I still wasn't seeing what all the fuss was about.

I kinda had a feeling who the culprit was, and that there was more to that character than was being let on, but at the end, things got really bizarre.

Things got back on track (no pun intended) and made sense at the end, but honestly, I hated every last one of these characters. I just felt wrung out at the end. Nobody won. Justice, I guess was served. But when the dust settled, all that was left was a bunch of losers. They all lost something because of the tragedy that involved all of them.

I was told that this was going to be like Gone Girl, but with that book, I felt some shock and awe. The way it ended was beyond messed up and for weeks after I would just think about it and be floored all over again.

With this book, there was no surprise. There was no twist, it just awful, awful and more awful. The way the people behaved in the story wasn't so much shocking as it demoralizing. Add to that the shifting perspectives and times, it just seemed like a chore to get through for the first 1/2 to 2/3 of the story. It wasn't until the end when I felt like I had to know what was going to happen next.

So, this one was just ok for me. Maybe if I hadn't had such high hopes for it, I would of rated it higher but it didn't live up to the lofty expectations I had for it.

Wow! What book did you read for Best Friends that you have completed already?

Bea wrote: "Wow! What book did you read for Best Friends that you have completed already?"

I didn't complete it. I've been copying and pasting from my phone. I didn't see that I had not removed that. Picks were still pending. LOL

ETA: I edited now so the completed is no longer there. Thanks for noticing.

Roll #14: COMPLETED
12/19/16 @ 9:09 pm
4 + 3 = 7
Pitcher's Mound
Roll again for task:
1 + 1 = 2
2. Sort your shelf by number of ratings and read a book with least number of ratings (you may choose out of your bottom 5).


Giving It All (42 ratings) completed 12/20/16

*4+ STARS (not enough to round up)*

GIVING IT ALL the newest book in the Naked Men Series, by Christi Barth was just so many things that I can't put it into words. The friends-to-lovers trope, the reunion of the ACS boys for the first time in the series, and sexy vulnerability that was Logan March was just too much for me not squee with joy. Seriously, this one was just about perfect.


GIVING IT ALL is the third book in the Naked Men Series, and it could definitely be read as a standalone. But, I think to get all of the gloriousness that comprises the Naked Men, I think that it's better if you have read the previous two books prior to this one.

So, this is the first time we get to meet the elusive Logan Marsh, the man that the Naked Men credit with their rescue so many years ago when they were stuck on a mountain in the Alps. But what we didn't know was how Logan felt about that. And that's what we get in this story. Logan had a hand in helping them, but it was his guilt for why he wasn't with them when the accident occurred that has shaped his life as a disaster recovery specialist. When he's sidelined from coming home from his latest disaster cleanup due to a hurricane, he runs into the an old friend who he had a crush on for years.

Brooke Gallagher is nursing some wounds of her own. She's in the tropical location where she runs into Logan to help her escape from the pain and guilt that she's been carrying around for months. The fact that fate has landed her with her high school crush seems too good to be true. The two of them decide to have a one-night fling while they are grounded due to the hurricane. The night is magical and everything they both dreamed about as kids and more.

When Logan leaves to go back home the next day, they both believe that their interlude is over, but life has other plans.

Oh, I just adored this one. I've enjoyed all of the books in the series so far, but I have to say that this one has got to be my favorite. I loved the vulnerability of Logan's character. He was so clueless to how much his worth was not tied up in helping his friends or the other people of the disaster sites where he's deployed. I wanted to bang my head up against the wall sometimes when he was so short-sighted but I loved how he got it in the end. I don't think his growth is over by long shot, so I hope we get to see more of it in the next books in the series.

Brooke was a great compliment to Logan's character as well. We see what she's dealing with and how she's not able to move past it as well. So, it was interesting to me that both Logan and Brooke were able to help the other but not able to use their advice to move past their own issues. I love that she was strong enough to take a stand at the end and put her feelings out there. Logan didn't handle it the way that I wanted him to (at first), but he came around just like I knew that he would.

And lastly, I just loved the way the Naked Men was complete this time. It really did feel like something was missing when they kept talking about the MIA, fifth member. I was so glad that they were a full unit finally. These guys are the real draw of this series. Their banter, how they are able to talk to each other, the way they are bonded through so many different trials and stages of their lives. It's really just magic. This author is able to capture that it such an amazing way, it's what is going to keep me coming back for each new book in the series.

My only complaint about this one is that it felt so unfinished. And maybe that was purposeful on the author's part, but I felt like I was left a bit hanging with Brooke and Logan's story. I hope that we see more a resolution for them. They definitely deserve it.

No matter what though, I will be sticking with these guys. These Naked Men have truly captured me and I'll be there for the duration. I can't wait to see the next man fall.


*Advanced Reader's Copy provided by NetGalley and Publisher in exchange for an honest review*

Sassafrass wrote: "I didn't complete it. I've been copying and pasting from my phone."

Ah! That explains it. I enjoyed your book pick a lot when I read it. I suspect you will fly through it.

Sassafrass wrote: "And for some the non-use of contractions really irked my nerves. But there was thing that I couldn't deny...."

should that not be "could not deny" ? ;-P

Catherine wrote: "Sassafrass wrote: "And for some the non-use of contractions really irked my nerves. But there was thing that I couldn't deny...."

should that not be "could not deny" ? ;-P"

lol

Roll #15: COMPLETED
12/20/16 @ 2:37 pm
6 + 6 = 12
Schroeder

Picks by Pat

A Court of Mist and Fury
Stamped from the Beginning: The Definitive History of Racist Ideas in America
#Bae


I'm going with A Court of Mist and Fury completed 1/12/17 *5 STARS*

Amazing from beginning to end!
A Court of Mist and Fury (A Court of Thorns and Roses Book 2) - Sarah J. Maas


Ok, so I just finished this and wow! Wow, WOW!

This was so amazing. The story line was so intricate. I love the way that things kind of came full circle at the end. LOVED IT!

A COURT OF MIST AND FURY is exactly why high fantasy is a genre that I can really get into. I love that this one also had a romantic element to it as well so that I could have the best of both worlds.

A COURT OF MIST AND FURY takes up pretty much right where the first book left off. If you have not read A COURT OF THORNS AND ROSES you have to stop right now and go read it. It is imperative. You need that to enjoy this book. This book is a continuation of the a story and you'll miss a lot if you haven't read book one.

Anyway, A COURT OF MIST AND FURY starts where the first one left off. I have to admit at first, I didn't like where this was going. Tamlin really rubs me the wrong way. He's so condescending. I hate Feyre with him. He doesn't challenge her and that what she needs. Needless to say, I enjoyed where the book started going. And when Rhysand came into the picture, I knew things were going to be good. And good they were.

There were so many revelations, so many things that Feyre discovered about herself, her powers, those surrounding her. I loved the way that Rhysand treated her. I love the fact he treated her like an equal and not someone to placed on a pedestal and then left alone.

And we discover that there is much more to Rhysand that we were lead to believe in the first book. I have a major crush on him. I was more partial to him anyway but after this book...*sigh* Feyre's time with Rhys offered so much more to her that I knew what happened in the book would be inevitable. That's all I'm going to say about that. But, I really came to enjoy the people in the Night Court (versus the Court of Nightmares--a distinction that will become apparent in the book).

There were some major, major plot twists, betrayals, and revelations and they were placed throughout in the book in such a way that you just knew things couldn't get any more shocking. But, man, this author weaved and weaved to make this amazing story come to life. I'm in complete awe.

Obviously this was a *5 STAR* read for me. I loved it even when I thought I didn't. I can not wait for the next book to come out. Because I know big things are coming. The fierceness of Feyre and Rhysand at the end of this book was something to behold and I can't wait to see where that takes us.

Roll #16: COMPLETED
12/27/16 @ 9:22 pm
5 + 6 = 11
Theme: Law & Order

Pick easy level #2: Author initials (first & last) found in POLICE OFFICER

author Emma Chase (EC in poliCE)

Royally Screwed completed 12/29/16 *4 STARS*

Cute Cinderella Story
Royally Screwed (The Royally Series Book 1) - Emma Chase

I really enjoyed this one. The characters were great and I loved their witty banter. Olivia and Nicholas seemed to really get each other, and that is so key. I loved the Prince was so good at the dirty talk. I can see why he was so successful with the ladies.

I listened to this one audio mostly because Andi Ardnt was narrating but I found a new voice to appreciate -- Shane East. He did such a great Prince Nicholas, I swear I could have listened to him talk all night.

My only issue with this one was that it was wrapped up way too quickly. I thought that Nicholas needed to gravel just a bit more for how he acted. But honestly, I probably would have caved quickly too.

Some big things happened at the end of this one, so I can't wait to see what happens in book two.

Roll #17: COMPLETED
12/30/16 @ 6:02 am
3 + 4 = 7
Suppertime!

Picks by Katie:





I'm going to go with Skinwalker completed 1/20/17 *4.5 STARS*

Great new series find!

Skinwalker (Jane Yellowrock #1) - Faith Hunter

*4.5 STARS*


Ok, so I know that this isn't a new series, but it's new to me and I am ecstatic that I found it.

SKINWALKER is a the first book in the Jane Yellowrock series and it follows the Jane who is a vampire hunter for hire. She is hired by some New Orleans vampires who are trying to take down a rogue vampire that's terrorizing the city.

Jane ends up running into some opposition and even finds out a little bit more about herself since her own origins are somewhat of a mystery.

Ultimately, Jane is kick ass and is able to bring down her man but in doing so, it seems as though she's set the course for some interesting times in the near future.

And I have to say that I thought this was everything I love in UF. I loved Jane's character and how kickass she was in the book. I also, liked the setting and the world building. I wanted more background on Jane, but I'm assuming we'll get more of that in the future.

I can't wait to continue with this series. I know we've just started to skim the surface of Jane Yellowrock's world. I've had this on my TBR since 2014, and I have no idea what took me so long to read it, but now that I've done so, there's no way I won't continue on with the series.

Roll #18: COMPLETED
1/5/17 9:55 am
6 + 1 = 7
Snoopy
I own that property so free choice from bookopoly shelf

Portrait in Death completed 1/5/17 *5 STARS*

What can I say?
Portrait in Death - J.D. Robb

What can I say about PORTRAIT IN DEATH other than the fact that I loved it. It was good for so many reasons. Yes, the mystery/crime part of it was good and it was great to see Eve in her element but it's the other stories that are drawing me into this series.

Roarke's revelation broke my heart. I really cried when he found out about his past and got to face that. I love how Eve was so selfless when it came to that. They are such a great couple. It was great to see Roarke vulnerable too. I hope that we get to go back to that storyline again in future books.

I was happy to see that Roarke finally wasn't the owner of the business that was the focus of the investigation. LOL, that seems to happen in pretty much every book. I guess even he has his limits.

And WTF, Office Truehart has the worst luck possible. I feel so bad for him. I hope he doesn't quit the force. The last couple of books have really been brutal for him.

As usual, I listened to this one. I don't think I could enjoy these books any other way. Susan Ericksen owns this series, no doubt about it.

Roll #19: COMPLETED
4 + 4 = 8
Psychiatric Booth
Rolled again for task
2 + 1 = 3
3. Read a book where word in title includes either Q, V, Y, X, or Z

Playing the Player completed 1/14/17

PLAYING THE PLAYER by Amy Andrews is the lastest installment in the Sydney Smoke Rugby series and Em and Linc burned up the sheets as well as my kindle. And while that hot lovin' was good, it was the fun that I had reading this made the story so memorable.

High school teacher, Em Newman is done with wasting her time on the wrong guys. She wants it all: the husband, the kids, the happily ever after, but she's always choosing the men who don't want to stay around. So, she decides that she's going to go on a man-hiatus until she finds a man who is willing to go the distance. And if she happens to be ridiculously attracted to the the exact wrong type of man she's looking for, she'll just have to get over it. Even if it happens to Lincoln Quinn, star rugby player for the Sydney Smoke.

Linc loves women, he loves rugby, and he feels that he excels at both. But the one thing he will never do is settle down. It doesn't' work. His own parents showed him that. So, why is it that he can not seem to get the hot little teacher Em out of his head? And why is he willing to jump through all sorts of hoops to be with her?

Both Em and Linc know that acting their attraction is inevitable, but it's what comes next that has them both changing their outlook on relationships.

So PLAYING THE PLAYER was cute and sweet. I loved Linc's character. For a guy who admitted to being emotionally stunted, he sure did have great insight. He wasn't all the way there (or else he wouldn't have messed up), but I thought he was much more deep than anyone gave him credit for. I loved that he was willing to show that part of himself to Em.

I thought it great that Em was not willing to give in the goals that she wanted for herself but it kind of ticked me off too. She's twenty-three years old in this story and she wasn't willing to give Linc more than two months to plan the future. Linc was the one who was supposed to be emotionally stunted but it seemed like Em was in that category too. I get that they both had their baggage but, two months didn't seem like long enough for them to have it all worked out.

And while those emotional landmines gave me some issues with he storyline, PLAYING THE PLAYER was an extremely fun read. Between the sexy banter, the insane amount of chemistry between Em and Linc, and the trouble that Linc went through to guess Em's given name (it's worse than you can possibly imagine), I zipped through this one in one sitting.

PLAYING THE PLAYER is the third installment of the Sydney Smoke Rugby Series which centers around the players a rugby team of the same name, but you don't have to read the other stories to enjoy this one. There's enough back story given to enjoy this as a standalone. This series is far from over and I am excited to see who is going to fall next!

This is only my second book by this author (I read book two in this series and enjoyed it), but it won't be my last. I enjoy the fun that Amy Andrews has with her characters. And I love the fact that she takes pity on American's like me and gives me a glossary of the Aussie terms used in the book. How cool is that?

*Advanced Reader's Copy provided by NetGalley and Publisher in exchange for an honest review*

Roll #20: COMPLETED
1/14/17 @ 10:32 pm
2 + 6 = 8
Theme: Opposites

Easy level:
3. How many people rated this book? Read the book with either the highest or the lowest number of ratings on your bookopoly shelf.

Planned Seduction (12 ratings at time of pick--lowest number of ratings on shelf) completed 1/22/17

This was a hot one...

Planned Seduction (The Seduction Series) - Jess Dee 
 
*3.5 STARS*
Friends-to-lovers is one of my all time favorite tropes so, when I read the description for PLANNED SEDUCTION, I was super excited to read it. And while I didn't love everything about the story, I really thought it was an enjoyable read.

Amy and Daniel have been friends for the last seventeen years. Daniel has also been secretly in love with Amy for about the same time. He's never felt that it was the right time to let his feelings be known, but after a life changing photography assignment, he knows that he's got to make his move. The problem is getting his best friend who thinks all men leave her to take him seriously is going to be difficult.

So, Daniel comes up with a plan that will seduce his best friend into becoming his lover and hopefully much more. But will Amy be willing to take a chance on him and them becoming more than just friends?

As I stated before, I'm a sucker for friends-to-lovers stories. And this one really fit the bill because Amy and Daniel have so much history together. How they made it through their hormone riddled teen years without so much as a make out session, I have no idea, but I loved the ease of their friendship. I also loved the way that Daniel knew he had to ease Amy into the idea of a more physical relationship with him. It showed how much he knew his best friend and her issues.

And when those two got together...WOW! We are talking off the charts hot. Jess Dee is one of those authors that I know is going to bring the heat. And nothing was left unscorched in this one. It seemed like a seamless transition to me. Their friendship made their physical relationship that much better.

But, that's where the story fell short for me. Amy, who is a therapist, really just went off the rails. She was so afraid of being hurt like she has been by men in her past, that she made so really ridiculous choices. We've seen that before, right, but it was the fact that she is a therapist that really didn't sit well with me. Didn't she have some therapy to work on her own issues? Here in the states, it's basically a requirement to do that. Maybe things are different in Australia, but the girl needed some serious couch time. She was so stunted that she made those too stupid to live type of decisions and it made the story less enjoyable right there.

Luckily, she came to her senses and I got the HEA that was rooting for all along, but I wanted to about strangle her there for a second.

Overall though, PLANNED SEDUCTION was a very hot read that was enjoyable to read. I have read books by this author before, and I know that I'm in for a steamy one when I see her name and this one certainly didn't disappoint there.

*Advanced Reader's Copy provided by NetGalley and Publisher in exchange for an honest review*

Roll #21: COMPLETED
1/19/17@ 8:56 pm
5 + 4 = 9

Sally & Charlie Brown

The Evolution of Calpurnia Tate
Forgetting to Be Afraid: A Memoir
Chasing Nikki

Going with: Chasing Nikki completed 2/9/17

Continuing this series is a must!

Chasing Nikki - Lacey Weatherford

*More like 3.5 STARS*

Aww man. That was so mean! I can't believe this. Poor, poor Chase. Life just really kicks some people in the nuts, doesn't it?

Anyway, I thought it was a sweet coming of age story with a whole lot of tragedy mixed in. Of course though, I'm going to have to go to the next book, like immediately! I have to see what happens next.

Roll #22: COMPLETED
1/27/17 @ 9:56 pm

4+ 4 = 8
Suppertime!
Picks from Katie
One Fell Sweep
Rookie Move
Eleventh Grave in Moonlight

Going with Rookie Move completed 2/18/17 *4 STARS*

CUTE!

Rookie Move - Sarina Bowen

I didn't go gaga over this like I did with the IVY YEARS series, but I thought it was cute. I'm a sucker for second chance romance and I was glad to see that Georgia and Leo got a shot to be together again.

I was a little ticked at her for almost screwing it all up...AGAIN, but I was glad that Leo was so freakin focused on not letter her get away for a second time.

I enjoyed the other characters and hope to get to know them better. I even hope to see Silas again. He got a bum wrap at the end. I'm thinking that there may be something between Becca, Georgia's roommate, and Nate, the team's owner. I look for more clues to that in the next book.

I listened to this one on audio and it was done by two new to me narrators. I thought they did a great job.

Roll #23: COMPLETED
1/27/17 @ 9:57 pm

5 + 2 = 7
Snoopy -- my property so FREE CHOICE!

Dirty completed 2/5/17

Sometimes, you need to get a little dirty... Dirty (Dive Bar) - Kylie Scott

I was so excited that Kylie Scott was starting a new series, and DIRTY did not disappoint. Lydia and Vaughan were so great together that I was able to easily put aside my reservations about the whole insta-love thing that was going on. I do wish their relationship had been developed a bit more before they had their HEA, but I still really enjoyed it.

I loved everyone associated with the Dive Bar. Nell, John, Pat, Eric...all of them were just great icing on the my already delicious cake. I can't wait to see more of those guys in future books.

And I have to make note of the fact that Vaughan was indeed dirty--deliciously so. He was so good with he sexy times that seriously, I'm not sure how Lydia was able to hold off on jumping his bones as long as she did.

I listened to this one on audio and my girl Andi Arndt owned the narration on this one. I love her and she really brought this one to life for me.

So, I guess it's obvious that I'll be continuing on with this series. I can't wait to see what everyone will get up to next.

Roll #24: COMPLETED
2/10/17 @ 9:27 am

4 + 4 = 8
Psychiatric Booth
roll again
5 + 6 = 11

Read a book where [first] publication year ends with an odd number (1, 3, 5, 7, 9)

Nine Kinds of Naughty (first published 2/7/17) completed 2/10/17

Nine kinds of Naughty = All Kind of Fun!!

Nine Kinds of Naughty - Jeanette Grey

*4 STARS*


I picked up this book not knowing that it was part of a series, but I had read a previous book by this author and enjoyed it so much that I jumped at the chance to read something by her again. I am happy to say that NINE KINDS OF NAUGHTY did not disappoint. With it's perfect balance of story, romance and sexy times, I was captivated from beginning to end.

This is the story of Lexie Bellamy and Dane Huntley. Lexie is a corporate executive in her family's company and Dane is her assistant...her really hot assistant. Lexie has been involved with a coworker before and it didn't turn out well at all, so she knows that Dane is strictly off limits.

When a business trip puts them in close quarters, things heat up and a world that Lexie never knew she was meant for is opened up for her. Dane shows her his dominant side and she quickly finds she wants to submit to him.

And while she is in charge at work, she's more than happy to let him be in charge in bedroom. But, what happens when they have to go back to real life?

So, yeah, this was not what I was expecting at all, but that's ok because NINE KINDS OF NAUGHTY was a little slice of BDSM heaven. There wasn't anything heavy in this book, so it more BDSM-lite, but I loved Dane's brand of loving dominance. It was totally swoon worthy. And it completely fit with the story.

My heart really went out to Dane though, he was having a rough time and thought that he had found his solace in Lexie. But then things went south and he was alone again. It was terrible and I wanted to strangle Lexie. He didn't handle things the best either but I thought she was being very unreasonable. It really is my only complaint about the story.

But, the fact that I had such strong opinions about this is really just a testament of how invested I got in the story. The characters and the writing made it impossible for me not to get sucked in.


NINE KINDS OF NAUGHTY is the third book in the Art of Passion Series, but the first two books are about another couple so this one can easily be read as standalone. I didn't feel like I was missing anything by not having read the first two books. I think I will go back and read them when I get the chance though because now I'm curious about how that couple got together. Jeanette Grey is not an author I have a ton of familiarity with, but I'm 2 for 2 with her books now, and I'm interested in seeing if I can keep up the trend.



*Advanced Reader's Copy provided by NetGalley and Publisher in exchange for an honest review*

Roll #25: COMPLETED
2/10/17 @ 9:31 am

1 + 4 = 5
Bus Stop (Shelves)
3, 6

Romance/Romantic-Suspense
Imitation in Death (Romantic suspense is MPG) completed 2/20/17

Can't go wrong with this series!!! Imitation in Death - J.D. Robb

Another great installment to the series. The murder was very convoluted. I thought I knew who the murderer was but then there would be all these other things that would make me start suspecting someone else.

And Roarke! His vulnerability during this one was heartbreaking. I'm glad something good came out of it though with him meeting his family.

And lookout Detective Peabody. I loved what Eve did there at the end. It should be interesting to see Eve and Peabody working together as partners instead of Lieutenant and Aide.

I just love this series. I can't wait to get to the next book.

Roll #26: COMPLETED
2/10/17 6:44 pm

2 + 3 = 5
Pitcher's Mound
5 + 3 = 8
8. Sort your shelf by average ratings and read a book with highest avg rating (you may choose out of your top 5)

Spicy Lasagna Murder at 4.41, it was in may top 5 of ratings.
completed 2/26/27
rating: *2 STARS*

Wasn't a fan...
Spicy Lasagna Murder: Book 13 in The Darling Deli Series - Patti Benning

I wasn't a fan of this one. I typically like cozy mysteries but this one I thought was hampered by the author's writing style. It seemed too simplistic and the entire time I was reading, I kept thinking of different (better) ways the author could have said something.

Calling our main character "the deli owner" seemed too impersonal and it was done numerous times throughout the 150 page book. Also the dialogue was off to me for some reason.

Needless to say, I couldn't rate this one that high. But, it was free (Kindle Unlimited) and it was short, so I can't complain (too much).

Roll #27: COMPLETED
2/26/17 @ 2:31 pm
5 + 6 = 11

Landed on FRANKLIN

picks by Cecile:





I'm going to go with Behind Closed Doors completed 3/15/17 *4 STARS*

So, I thought I knew where this was going but...NO
Behind Closed Doors - B. A. Paris

So, I just knew I had this all figured out. We all know that Jack's a bad guy right. It's pretty obvious that that is going to be the big twist. But, You just have no idea how bad of a guy this guy is. Seriously. A special place in hell for that one.

My thoughts are just so jumbled, I'm not sure I can really do a review justice for this one.

Jack was a creepy bastard.

Millie was my hero! Such a smart girl and so incredibly strong

I started to get a little upset with the back and forth but I get why it was done (to keep the reader confused for the course of the book, LOL).

But ultimately, I was a bit disappointed by how tidily everything was wrapped up in the end even though I loved how Esther proved herself.

I will definitely read more of this author's work. This is her debut effort and if this book is anything to go by, she's got a great career ahead of her.

The audio was decent as well, so overall I think it was a great read. One I will definitely talk about long after reading.

Roll #28: COMPLETED
2/26/17 @ 2:35 pm
3 + 2 = 5

Landed on TUG OF WAR (my space so FREE CHOICE)

After the Kiss 3/2/17

Fun and Sweet!
After the Kiss: The Stiletto Series - Lauren Layne

I really enjoyed this one. It was so fun and sweet. Loved the banter between these two who didn't seem suited at all. Not at first anyway. I loved to see them come around to understanding just how right they were together. And even though I could see the big blowup coming from a mile away, my gut still ached at the loss of these two not together.

But you know it all had to work out in the end, right? I just wish they had had a little more time to build up the relationship before the HEA came, but I enjoyed it nonetheless.

I will definitely have to continue on with this series. I want to see what the other ladies get up to.

Roll #29: COMPLETED
2/26/17 @ 2:38 pm

1+2 = 3

Landed on SLEDDING

picks by Rachel:

Hidden Figures: The American Dream and the Untold Story of the Black Women Mathematicians Who Helped Win the Space Race
Nobody But You
Even the Score

I'm going to go with Hidden Figures: The American Dream and the Untold Story of the Black Women Mathematicians Who Helped Win the Space Race 3/4/17

*5 STARS*

I have no words. I HAVE NO WORDS!

Hidden Figures: The American Dream and the Untold Story of the Black Women Mathematicians Who Helped Win the Space Race - Margot Lee Shetterly


Well, I actually do have words, but I am in such awe of this story. This story that was completely unknown to me...a woman of science. I am so inspired by this story, I want everyone young girl to know it. Heck, I want every young BOY to know it too.

These women were so amazing. I just can't even put my feelings into a coherent thought right now. But, seriously. The brilliance that shone through despite all the obstacles, just gives me all kinds of joy.

Ms. Johnson, Jackson, and Vaughan and so many others are really pioneered the way for women like me to have success in their fields and I didn't even freakin' know it. And the strength of conviction that these women had. To do the kind of work that they did, make the contributions that they did and still not even be able to use the bathrooms at their work...man, how frustrating that must have been.

But, it's stories like these that keep me trying to inspire my children to work hard and not just accept average. Because these women fought hard to break down the barriers that we have taken for granted and it would be a great disservice to them to waste the opportunities that they made possible for us.

Roll #30: COMPLETED
3/3/17 @ 7:27 pm

3 + 4 = 7

Landed on FRENCH CAFE
Rolled again: 4, 1
Mystery, thriller

You (Thriller on MPG)
3/10/17 *5 STARS*

I've got goosebumps!

You - Caroline Kepnes

This book was creepy! So creepy!!! I couldn't put it down though. It was fascinating to be in the mind of someone so screwed up (I really want to say another word but I'll keep things PG).

Joe Goldberg's mind was so screwed up it was amazing the way he was able to twist things to satisfy his psyche. Such interesting stuff. I found this enthralling the way I did Dexter when he graced my TV (I haven't read the books...yet).

Anyway, I don't know what happened but while I never liked Joe, I did kinda want to root for him at some points because I really wasn't a fan of Beck. She was spoiled and self-centered and really just wanted everyone to be gaga over her.

I thought the writing was brilliant, but what really REALLY made this book for me was the narrator, Santino Fantana. I've never listened to him before but seriously, he was amazing. The way he interpreted this character was so spot on, I would never have been able to do it justice in my head. It was an amazing performance. I will definitely try to find more of his narrations in the future.

Roll #31: DUE 4/7/17
3/10/17 @ 4:58 pm
1 + 2 = 3

Landed on POOR CHARLIE BROWN
Picked Pucked

Pucked
completed 4/1/17
*4 STARS*
LOL, funny! Pucked - Helena Hunting

I really LOL with this one. I was funny and absurd, but didn't take itself too seriously and that made me enjoy it all the more. I have had this one for a long time but for some reason took a long time to get to it. Now, I'm kicking myself. I really can't wait to read more of this series.

I started listening to it on audio but the male narrator's "Canadian" voice was grating, so I had to stop and read it for the rest of the book. I thought the female narrator was pretty good so I'm sad I couldn't enjoy the audio.

I will be continuing on with this series but won't get audio most likely unless the narrator is different.

Roll #32: Completed
3/10/17 @ 5:08 pm
2+5 = 7

Landed on NO VALENTINE
Rolled again 3, 1 = Contemporary Romance

Now That I've Found You (tagged contemporary romance 31 times) 3/12/17 *4 STARS*

Sullivan Insta-love Strikes Again!
Now That I've Found You (New York Sullivans #1) (The Sullivans Book 15) - Bella Andre

I really love the Sullivans. This family has become a mainstay in my reading over the last couple of years. I've been through the San Francisco Sullivans and the Seattle Sullivans, and now we've come to the New York ones. And the first story was just as enjoyable as the the ones I've read previously.

Drake Sullivan is a famous artist but he's in a slump. He can't find the inspiration that he needs to keep painting. That is until he saw a woman standing on the cliff outside his isolated lake house. She's crying but she's the most beautiful woman he's ever since. And suddenly he can paint.

Rosa on the other hand is running for the mess that is her life. She's a reality TV star and someone took nude photos of her without her permission so she just wants to escape for a while so she can figure out what to do next. The last thing that she needs is a man in her life, but Drake Sullivan approaches her on the cliff and her life will never be the same.

I enjoyed Drake and Rosa's story. As usual, we have the insta-love that all the Sullivans are known for. But, it's just become par for the course with this family so I just go with it. I got the warm and fuzzies with these two and I loved the way that Drake protected Rosa from the fall out of those pictures. I was happy to see their HEA and can't wait for Suzanne's story next.

Roll #33: DUE 4/19/17
3/22/17 @ 3:36 PM

3 + 4 = 7
VALENTINE'S DAY (Theme: Caregiving)

I'm going to go with Hard Level 6, Relaxation:

~As a caregiver, you need to find time to nurture yourself...

I'm going to read Special Delivery which is a BDSM book. So there are many different levels of caregiving in this story, but based on the description, it seems as though Sam goes through some self-nuture when he goes on a journey of self-discovery to find out how to be true to himself without being ashamed.


Special Delivery 3/28/17
*5 STARS*

So, wow just wow!
Special Delivery - Heidi Cullinan

Just melt me in to a puddle of goo right now. This was so sweet. I LOVED this. Seriously. So perfect.

Now let me just be clear here, this was sweet. It was a story of self discovery and all that good stuff, but it was also freakin' hot! HOT!!!

There was stuff in here that, I mean, WOW. Ms. Cullinan has a wonderfully smutty mind. But, even without that, this story at it's core was just amazing. Sam, Mitch, and even Randy (who grew on me by the end of the story) were these characters who went beyond the stereotypes and truly grew during this novel.

I was so sad to see it end but had a smile on my face as it was. I can't wait to see what is going to happen next in this series but I truly hope that we'll get a chance to see Sam and Mitch again.

Roll #34: COMPLETED
3/29/17 @ 11:30 pm

4 + 1 = 5
JAIL / Just Visiting Read a book with word in title that is, at least, 3 syllables long

Sense and Sensibility 3/30/17 *4 STARS*

*4+ Stars*

I really did like this one. I did, it has some similar traits to Pride and Prejudice which I thought was pretty good. What made me not bump this one up was the fact that it dragged on in a lot of places. I felt like what could have been covered in a few pages went on for many more.

But, the story was a good one. I find that I would have had a hard time living in those days. There were so many rules. I think I would have broken a great many of them. LOL

Some people feel like this story was a tragedy even though both sisters had good lives at the end. I don't see it as a tragedy but as a reality. It showed that sometimes, the fantasy of the young aren't what bear fruit as we get older. And while you're life my not be exactly like how you always dreamed, it can still be full and happy and content.

I like to think that both sisters were better off with the way things turned out and lived very happy lives.

It was interesting though that the "villains" in the story ended up rich while our heroes and heroines had much more modest lives. But, that doesn't take anything away from the fact that they may have gotten the better end of the deal.

I'm glad that I read this classic. I'm going to start making my way through some classics over the next couple of years. It's amazing to me the story was still very relevant today even though the times are much different.

Roll #35: COMPLETED
3/30/17@ 1:10 pm

4 + 6 = 10
FREE PARKING (random book)

Easy Kisses completed 3/31/17 *4 STARS*

Almost Perfect!
Easy Kisses (The Boudreaux Series Book 4) - Kristen Proby

This one was almost perfect to me. Shoes and sex like Charly are my idea of heaven as well.

I really thought the premise was interesting with how Charly and Simon met. I adore the Boudreaux family so I was happy to see them again. I thought Charly and Simon were extremely hot together, and really just perfect for each other.

BUT, I was unhappy with the way that Simon, the self-help guru, screwed the pooch in the way that he handled things with Charly. IT.WAS.NOT.COOL! I felt like I held him to a higher standard because of what he did for a living. And he acted like a complete idiot.

I'm glad things worked out in the end, but man, I wanted to kick him in the bollocks. LOL

Narration was a tad better. My girl, Rachel Fulginiti is always on point, her voices are amazing. But, this time, Sebastian York stepped up his game some more too. He still isn't so good with the southern (like he doesn't even really do those), but he did a decent job with Simon.

I'm looking forward to much more of this series. I can't wait to see Beau book's next.

Roll #36: COMPLETED
4/7/17 @10:45 pm
3 + 4 = 7

Landed on Right field Lucy
Forgetting to Be Afraid: A Memoir completed 5/4/17 *4 STARS*

review pending

Roll #37: COMPLETED
4/7/17 @ 10:47 pm

2 + 6 = 8

Landed on Halloween: DIVERSITY

Brown Girl Dreaming completed 4/2/17 *5 STARS*

A beautiful and important piece of literature

Brown Girl Dreaming - Jacqueline Woodson

This is an interesting book for me to review. I don't usually read poetry and this wasn't on my radar at all, but I ended up reading it for a Goodreads group and I'm so glad that I did.

BROWN GIRL DREAMING is a memoir written in verse. The poems take you through a story of a young girl growing up from being born in Ohio, to moving to South Carolina, and eventually moving to New York City. The thing that makes this story unique is the fact that she grew up in the '60's and 70's so her experiences were much different based on her location.

I felt a kinship to this young Jacqueline as I was reading her story. There were a lot of things that I could relate to, no matter that her and my experiences were happening about 15 years apart. But there are things all brown girls go through no matter the time. I chuckled when reading "hair night". Everyone knows about the sizzle of that hot comb. I was wistful when reading "stevie and me" and I think about the first book I read that had a person of color as the main character, and how it affected me (mine wasn't fiction though, it was a book about Wilma Rudolph for young readers). I also think about the stupid things I thought about doing that could have changed the course of my life forever if not for the fact that I had family who was involved and willing to stop me and make think. In Ms. Woodson's "graffiti", she had spray paint, but it really could have been anything. And of course there is the "fabric store" where every brown girl can sympathize with Jaqueline's grandmother for now wanting to go into the store where there employee follows all the black people around to make sure they don't steal anything. She chooses to go to the fabric store instead.

Then there were things that I only heard about. Like in "what everybody knows now", she talks about how the laws of changed but the attitudes of segregation have not in Greenville, South Carolina. It must have been so hard for her to go from New York to SC with those vastly different attitudes. The mixed messages that these kids had to adapt to is unreal, but I look at how some things haven't change. I think about the fear that I have for my own children especially my son as he gets older, and the stereotypes that he is going to have to still endure. The fear that I have that one day he may be stopped by police and never come home again.

Ultimately, BROWN GIRL DREAMING was beautifully written and touched me so deeply, I know that I will be thinking about the story and revisiting it for a long time. I am going to make sure that it's a book that my daughter reads very soon, and probably force my son to read it as well (I'll convince him that it's not just about an "icky" girl). I would recommend this book for everyone, it's poignant but funny at times, sad too. And I believe that everyone will be able to find some like experiences to her story as well.

This is a new author for me, but she's definitely on my radar now. I will be looking for more of her work.

Roll #38: COMPLETED

1 + 4 = 5

Landed on GO!
rolled again: 2 + 5 = 7

Landed on Psychiatric Booth
rolled again!: 2+ 2 = 4
4. Read a book where [first] publication year ends with an even number (0, 2, 4, 6, 8)

Forbidden Fling (published 2016) completed 4/14/17

*4 STARS*

Cute!

Forbidden Fling (Wildwood Book 1) - Skye Jordan

I thought this was cute. It was different for me than the Renegades series by the author. I was mad though that our hero wasn't just a bit more honest with the heroine as their relationship developed. So, it made the quick wrap up at the end more unbelievable. But, other than that, it was a fun, quick read, and the narration was great too!

Roll 39: Completed

4 + 4 = 8
Landed on: Thanksgiving Day -- Opposites

A Walk to Remember 7/18/17

*3.5 STARS*


Liked it.

I liked this one. I liked it more than I liked the movie I think except for one thing. I felt like the main characters Jamie and Landon had more of a connection in the movie. I just didn't see that as much in the book. I did feel more hopeful at the end of the book than I did in the movie, however, I was still bawling my eyes out.

Roll 40: COMPLETED


5+1 = 6
SLEDDING

Pick by Larula:

Even the Score 7/29/17

*4 STARS*

I thought this was cute even though I knew who was behind the stalking early on. I really liked Danicka and Andy together. The kids were all kinds of awesome, and I even liked Andy's friends. I am going to have to read other books by this author to get some of the back story on them.