Review ~ The Restorer by Amanda Stevens

TITLE: The Restorer
AUTHOR: Amanda Stevens
COPYRIGHT: 5/1/11
TYPE: Urban Fantasy
PAGES: 384
SERIES: Yes the first in a series

REASON FOR READING: The summary just looked amazing! I had to have it

SUMMARY (from Goodreads):
My name is Amelia Gray. I'm a cemetery restorer who sees ghosts. In order to protect myself from the parasitic nature of the dead, I've always held fast to the rules passed down from my father. But now a haunted police detective has entered my world and everything is changing, including the rules that have always kept me safe.


It started with the discovery of a young woman's brutalized body in an old Charleston graveyard I've been hired to restore. The clues to the killer—and to his other victims—lie in the headstone symbolism that only I can interpret. Devlin needs my help, but his ghosts shadow his every move, feeding off his warmth, sustaining their presence with his energy. To warn him would be to invite them into my life. I've vowed to keep my distance, but the pull of his magnetism grows ever stronger even as the symbols lead me closer to the killer and to the gossamer veil that separates this world from the next.

THOUGHTS/OPINION:
I was beyond surprised at how much I loved this book! First off the book is about a graveyard restorer (how often do you see that as a job description?) who sees ghost. Yeah you saw that right she works in a graveyard and yet sees ghost however, she pretends to not see them in order to protect herself. The problem she runs into Devlin who is haunted (has his own ghost that are attached to him) and she has a major attraction to. Things get weird from there. There is a dead body, a secret society, ghost, a mystery, more dead bodies, and well the mystery between what Devlin is doing to Amelia and how that is affecting her.

Review ~ The Rules by Ellen Fein

TITLE: All the Rules: Time-Tested Secrets for Capturing the Heart of Mr. Right
AUTHOR: Ellen Fein and Sherrie Schneider
COPYRIGHT: 2007
TYPE: self-help
PAGES: 400
SERIES:  sure

REASON FOR READING: I am a counseling major and it was a required reading to help with relationships

SUMMARY (from Goodreads):

The two bestselling phenomenons now together in one timeless, definitive edition.
In their #1 New York Times bestseller, The Rules, Ellen Fein and Sherrie Schneider shared their time-tested techniques for finding the man of your dreams. Controversial and effective, these 35 rules changed millions of women's lives all over the world. In their sensational sequel, The Rules II, the authors showed readers how they could follow The Rules in even the most difficult situations.
A simple set of dos and don'ts, The Rules will lead you where you want to be: in a healthy, committed relationship. It recognizes that men are either attracted to you or not—and that they want a challenge, not an easy victory. Although they sound old-fashioned and tough, The Rules will bring out the best in you and the men you date. The goals? Marriage, in the shortest time possible, to a man you love, who loves you even more than you love him.
Whether you're eighteen or eighty, a beauty queen or a woman with ordinary looks, The Rules will work for you.

THOUGHTS/OPINION:

I am not sure what I think about this book. It had a lot of good ideas and even some promise but I feel that some things lacked. I think even though it stressed not to play games that it really was one big game. Now don’t get me wrong I am single and I understand that letting him come up to you is a good idea I mean who doesn’t want to be chased or sought. That being said a lot of the ideas it had just kind of rubbed me wrong. Like they said not to answer his call right away, or that you shouldn’t stay on the phone longer than 5 minutes the reason is to appear to be busy and have a life… Okay good in theory but what if you really don’t have a life? And why is 5 the magical number. I honestly think that I would actually like to see more research on this book before I am sold and recommend it to clients.

Are you keeping it or passing it on? passing

Would you recommend this book? I don’t think I would.

 Challenges:

Out Do Yourself Challenge 

Reviewing Next: After the Virus

Review ~ Matched by Ally Condie

TITLE: Matched

AUTHOR: Ally Condie
COPYRIGHT: 11/30/2010
PAGES: 366
TYPE: YA fantasy/romance
SERIES: Yes first in a trilogy I believe
1. Matched
2. Crossed

REASON FOR READ: I have to admit the story line and plot interested me plus the cover is to die for!

SUMMARY (from Goodreads): 
Cassia has always trusted the Society to make the right choices for her: what to read, what to watch, what to believe. So when Xander's face appears on-screen at her Matching ceremony, Cassia knows with complete certainty that he is her ideal mate... until she sees Ky Markham's face flash for an instant before the screen fades to black. The Society tells her it's a glitch, a rare malfunction, and that she should focus on the happy life she's destined to lead with Xander. But Cassia can't stop thinking about Ky, and as they slowly fall in love, Cassia begins to doubt the Society's infallibility and is faced with an impossible choice: between Xander and Ky, between the only life she's known and a path that no one else has dared to follow 

THOUGHTS/OPINION:
This book was a pleasant surprise! I have to admit I wasn’t sure I would enjoy it as much as I did I actually found that I couldn’t put this one down which is refreshing especially from a YA perspective. Usually the heroine is just too much or too dramatic or too overdone. Cassia I have to say was a VERY nice surprise. She was not only believable but reacted in a way that I hoped she would. Man she really left an impression on me. Also this world that Condie has created isn’t so hard to believe. I could actually see us getting to this point and wonder to myself if I was in this place at this time would I fight against a system I wasn’t sure I could win or would I be like the rest of society and assume it is for our benefit? I have to say even though this is a YA book it does make you think and think I did. I can’t wait until Crossed comes out I have to know how Condie plans to end this because I am on pins and needles. And very glad I decided to read Match so close to Crossed coming out. This is a great book that I think everyone should give a try. There are deeper issues then if a teenage girl picks her best friend and who society thinks is a good match in every way for her or if she picks the boy who teaches her how to be free to feel? MAN I do love me a good triangle that gets resolved in the first book LOL

Challenges: Out do Yourself

Re-read Review ~ Storm Front by Jim Butcher

TITLE: Storm Front
AUTHOR: Jim Butcher
COPYRIGHT: 4/1/2000
TYPE: urban fantasy
PAGES: 322
SERIES:  Uh YES
1. Storm Front
2. Fool Moon
3. Grave Peril
4. Summer Knight
5. Death Masks
6. Blood Rites
7. Dead Beat
8. Proven Guilty
9. White Night
10. Small Favor
11. Turn Coat
12. Changes
13. Ghost Story

REASON FOR READING: Uh duh I got Ghost Story and its been too long so I decided to re-read to refresh my memories LOL

SUMMARY (from Goodreads):

Harry Dresden--Wizard
Lost items found. Paranormal investigations.
Consulting. Advice. Reasonable rates.
No Love Potions, Endless Purses, Parties, or Other Entertainment.

Harry Dresden is the best at what he does. Well, technically, he's the only at what he does. So when the Chicago P.D. has a case that transcends mortal creativity or capability, they come to him for answers. For the "everyday" world is actually full of strange and magical things--and most of them don't play too well with humans. That's where Harry comes in. Takes a wizard to catch a--well, whatever.

There's just one problem. Business, to put it mildly, stinks. So when the police bring him in to consult on a grisly double murder committed with black magic, Harry's seeing dollar signs. But where there's magic, there's a black mage behind it. And now that mage knows Harry's name. And that's when things start to get... interesting.

Magic. It can get a guy killed.

THOUGHTS/OPINION:

First and foremost this book reminded me of how much I love thee Harry Dresden, and Bob, and Murph and well hell the whole gang! This book introduces us to Harry and how he is the only wizard openly practicing in Chicago. It helps to set the stage and introduce us to Harry’s world. Crap it even reminded me that Murph and Harry didn’t always have an unshakeable trust and friendship that in the beginning it was actually hit or miss.

This book also introduces us to the dark side of magic and what can happen if magic is used in the wrong ways. I have to say it was a great first book and really gives you a good feel for Harry and why he has made it to 13 books AMAZING and now it has inspired a re-read of the whole series so I’m off to check out Fool Moon because I do not own this one or that one LOL but pretty much all the others.  

Oh side note for the Dresden books: ALWAYS remember people you never know when they are going to pop back in later and be important as I have discovered over the years LOL



Challenges:
Out Do Yourself Challenge
Re-Read Challenge

Review ~ A Secret Rage by Charlanie Harris

TITLE: A Secret Rage
AUTHOR: Charlanie Harris
COPYRIGHT: 08/07/2007
PAGES: 224
TYPE: contemporary/ myster/thriller
SERIES:  no

REASON FOR READING: I had it in the TBR pile and thought of how much I love this author and gave it a shot.

SUMMARY (from Goodreads):
Former New York City model Nickie Callahan is looking forward to the easy life when she moves to the sleepy college town of Knolls, Tennessee. But the women of Knolls are not safe. And as Nickie gets swept up in a string of brutally violent crimes, she must take matters of justice into her own hands.

THOUGHTS/OPINION:

I am still torn on this review. It is a tough subject to write about and had I actually read in between the lines and knew this was about a RAPE I wouldn’t have read it. The book in general is good I just sometimes don’t think authors can handle the rape thing very well. I did like that after she was raped it was hard not to panic when the thought of being with someone else. But she did manage to get over it fast when it came time to have sex with the hero. IF you ignore this aspect the book was over all pretty good. Not a favorite of mine the book was violent the women of Knolls are being raped and by whom. Two of the survivors get together to solve the case and well there you go. They do solve it but it has a twist I guess. Anyway a very hard book to read and even harder to review due to the sensitive nature of the topic.



Challenges:
Out Do Yourself Challenge
TBR pile Challenge

Review ~ Insight by Jamie Magee

TITLE: Insight
AUTHOR: Jamie Magee
COPYRIGHT: 7/10/2010

PAGES: 314
TYPE: fantasy
SERIES:  yes book 1

Insight
Embody

REASON FOR READ:
Accidently read book 1 first and couldn’t make heads or tails of it so decided to move on to the first one LOL

SUMMARY (from Goodreads):

Before that fateful summer night, Willow had balanced the insight of emotion, and the vivid images. That night, the figure in her nightmare marked her wrist with a star, giving her father no choice but to tell Willow a family secret that would abruptly change life, as she knew it, forever. Before Willow had time to absorb the shock of her father's secret, her soul mate that had shared every stunning dream with her, found her, and darkness captured her closest friends. In order to save them, she must weave through broken myths and the undeniable power of the Zodiac. In the end, Willow discovers that at the moment of our birth we are all given a divine gift

THOUGHTS/OPINION:

Okay memo from me read this book first then move on to the second otherwise you are lost and you will miss out on a fantastic series. The world building is wonderful; the characters had room to grow. There were parts I found a little tiring like we are so powerful and what not over and over and well honestly it was refreshing to find out that they weren’t all big and powerful LOL.

The whole soul mate thing was handled in such a way that I actually appreciated it. I liked how the heroine and hero were unable to protect everyone they loved it is refreshing that they had to experience real pain and loss and yet were able to maintain their individuality through it and still have me sympathizing with them. I liked how Willow was introduced to her new world and the anger she felt towards her family was real and understandable not an overreaction from a teenager that doesn’t know how to deal. Again if I had to pick one negative thing about this book it would be the whole we are powerful and all power and everyone is in total AWE of us and our powers LOL then the whole thing at the end with the little sister was a little off for me but helps with the next book.

 

 Challenges:

Out do Yourself
E-book challenge

Review ~ The Twisted Tale of Stormy Gale by Christine Bell

TITLE: The Twisted Tale of Stormy Gale
AUTHOR: Christine Bell
COPYRIGHT: 4/25/11
TYPE: time-travel (AKA fantasy)
SERIES: nope

REASON FOR READ:
The story sounded interesting and I admit I was curious about a time traveling pirate

SUMMARY (from Goodreads):
I'm a time pirate—born in 1810, now a 21st-century woman. I travel through time trying to right wrongs without disrupting the fragile balance between what is and what can never be.
That's why it's vital that I go to 1836 and find the man who conned my brother out of his Time Travel Mechanism as quickly as possible. If the technology falls into the wrong hands, it could change the world as we know it. The notorious Duke of Leister definitely qualifies as the wrong hands. An amateur scientist of the slightly mad variety, he's bound to figure out how to use the TTM sooner rather than later.
I knew this wouldn't be easy. But I wasn't counting on him being as sexy as hell. Or winding up chained to his bed…

THOUGHTS/OPINION:
This was a fast, quick read and I have no idea why but I thought it was a full length book. Had I know it was only 30,000 words roughly I would’ve read it sooner.
I liked the characters, loved the background, and I fully admit I am a complete sucker for the romance. Keep in mind there is not a lot of room for character growth or development but with the small amount of room she had Ms. Bell did a great job. I believed the romance, I liked the history of the characters and how they met. And I admit that I liked how it turned out.

The only complaint I have is the book was WAY TO SHORT…



Challenges:
Out Do Yourself
E-book

Reveiw ~ He's Just Not That Into You by Greg Behrendt

Title: He's Just Not Into You
Author: Greg Behrendt, Liz Tuccillo
Copyright: 2004
Type: Self-Help
Pages: 204

Reason for Reading: I thought this book looked interesting... which I found strange considering I didn't like the movie (and yes for the record I know that I am a minority in that regard)

Summary according to Goodreads:
Everyone can use a daily wake-up call.

Now in bite-size mantras, the abridged empathetic wit and wisdom of the number one New York Times bestseller He's Just Not That Into You will recharge and inspire your dating outlook one wake-up call at a time. 

For ages women have come together over coffee, cocktails, or late-night phone chats to analyze the puzzling behavior of men. Greg Behrendt and Liz Tuccillo are here to say that —despite good intentions— you're wasting your time. Men are not complicated, although they'd like you to think they are. And there are no mixed messages. 

The truth may be, He's just not that into you. 

THOUGHTS

The truth this book is common sense on a NUMBER of things... and yet as women we need to be reminded of this. The thing I liked the most was the fact it comes from a guys perspective Greg whom actually seems like he has it going on (sounds weird but if he appeared un-educated or worse just out for money this review  would've been a WHOLE lot different.)

As it is however, this book had some great pointers. I did learn that if a guy is into me then he will actually ask me out. This whole well he's shy, or maybe he's intimidated crap isn't going to work on me anymore. From now on if he is into me he will ask me no matter how many of my girlfriends are around me. 

Other than that I have to say the rest was pretty much common sense. If a guy hits you he's not into you, if a guy won't return your phone call he's not into you, if a guy only wants sex he's not into you, if a guy doesn't want sex he's not into you... etc... you get the point. 

It was a quick fun read and had some information that was interesting. I would recommend it if you are looking for some answers to questions but if you possess a good amount of common sense you are not going to get a lot out of this one.

Challenges:

Out-Do Yourself Challenge

Review ~ Embody by Jamie Magee

TITLE: Embody

AUTHOR: Jamie Magee
COPYRIGHT: 2011
TYPE: fantasy
SERIES: yes book 2

REASON FOR READ:
Offered on BLB tour thought it sounded interesting

SUMMARY (from Goodreads):

Not many Scorpio’s are known for their patience, and Willow Haywood is no different. Her only desire is to love Landen Chambers and redeem the lost souls of Esterious, but the path to that desire is long, dark and dangerous...
Before Willow’s life had a chance to balance the sudden revelations and grief she had to endure to get to Chara a disturbing discovery is made. A photo, one that shows Willow blissfully embracing the flawless image of Drake Blakeshire; giving her not only proof that she had lived before, but that she had loved him.
Running away from the memory of Drake’s hypnotizing touch, and the prophecy set before her seemed like the logical thing to do. That is, until a dark dream reignites her passion to save the hopeless dimension of Esterious. Willow struggles to find patience – to learn everything she needs to know before she faces Drake again, but her eagerness is dangerous and one step in the wrong direction takes everything and everyone away from her – the only way to survive this trial is for Willow to remember who she is and what she really wants out of this life. The question is….can she do that

THOUGHTS/OPINION:

First and foremost this book rocks… Secondly you MUST read the first book to understand what in the world is going on. I made the mistake of diving head first into this book without reading the first and was completely lost. Yes it did make sense and yes I caught on but whew I think reading the first would’ve helped me struggle less.

I did enjoy the overall story, the world building, and the characters. Ms. Magee has written a very engaging story and world that makes you feel sympathy to all characters. I enjoyed watching Willow grow and understand what was going on and figure out what she needed in order to survive. She was a fantastic character! The story line kept me hooked and had me wanting more.

This is definitely a series I would like to continue after of course reading the first.

Challenges:
Out do Yourself
E-book challenge

Additional Links: Book Lovin' Bitches Ebook Tours


Disclaimer:
Disclosure of Material Connection: i am a member of the Book Lovin' Bitches Ebook Tours and a copy was provided to me by the author. although payment may have been received by Book Lovin' Bitches Ebook Tours, no payment was received by me in exchange for this review nor was there an obligation to write a positive one. all opinions expressed here are entirely mine and may not necessarily agree with those of the author, the book's publisher and publicist or the readers of this review. this disclosure is in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255, Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising

Review ~ Darwin's Children by Natasha Larry

TITLE: Darwin’s Children
AUTHOR: Natasha Larry
COPYRIGHT: 2011
TYPE: Urban Fantasy
PAGES: 138 E-book

REASON FOR READ:
BLB tours had it up and I thought it looked very interesting!

SUMMARY:
Life can get pretty complicated for any seventeen-year-old girl, but for a home-schooled telepathic black girl trying to survive in a prestigious private school in small-town Jonesborough, Tennessee, it can be maddening - especially when her telepathic father keeps eavesdropping on her thoughts!
Jaycie Lerner's family isn't the usual mom-dad-kid setup. Jaycie's mom's MIA, but Allison, her personal live-in 'trainer,' is more than a mom, with her own special abilities, like being able to lift cars and run incredibly fast. And Jaycie's godfather John is more than persuasive - he can literally convince anyone to do anything.
As far as the rest of the world's concerned, Jaycie's on the outside looking in. The townsfolk love Jaycie's pediatrician father, but she doesn't fit in with 'normal' kids, and she doesn't really want to. Most of her free time is spent training to keep her telekinetic and telepathic powers under control. But there's one thing she can't control - and that's her feelings, especially when her best friend Matt is nearby. If only he knew what she was truly capable of...
Everything seems to be status quo for Jaycie until she receives a cryptic message from a stranger and meets a very unusual girl new to Jonesborough. Then all hell breaks loose!

THOUGHTS/OPINION:
I thought this was a really interesting book. It took a while for me to get into the book but once I did it was hard to put down. I have to admit that while I enjoyed all the characters I loved me some Allison I wanted to learn and know as much about her as I could. Add to it that I wanted her as my training LOL.

Jaycie is a pretty cool kid and would be someone I wouldn't mind being around. I thought the superpowers were cool I would've liked to see more of the weaknesses in those that had a lot of power or super powers that were SO STRONG which made me a tad upset. Otherwise this was a fun romp with a cool cast of characters, a nice plot line, and something that once you got hooked you were there through it all.
If you like superpowers and young adult novels this is one I highly recommend.



Challenges:
Out Do Yourself Challenge
E-book Tour

Additional Links: Book Lovin' Bitches Ebook Tours


Disclaimer:
Disclosure of Material Connection: i am a member of the Book Lovin' Bitches Ebook Tours and a copy was provided to me by the author. although payment may have been received by Book Lovin' Bitches Ebook Tours, no payment was received by me in exchange for this review nor was there an obligation to write a positive one. all opinions expressed here are entirely mine and may not necessarily agree with those of the author, the book's publisher and publicist or the readers of this review. this disclosure is in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255, Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising

Review~ Frost Moon by Anthony Francis

TITLE: Frost Moon

AUTHOR: Anthony Francis

COPYRIGHT: 3/1/10

TYPE: Urban Fantasy

PAGES: 284

SERIES: Yes book 1

REASON FOR READING: Offered on NetGalley and it looked really interesting!

SUMMARY (from Goodreads):
In an alternate Atlanta where magic is practiced openly, where witches sip coffee at local cafes, shapeshifters party at urban clubs, vampires rule the southern night like gangsters, and mysterious creatures command dark caverns beneath the city, Dakota Frost's talents are coveted by all. She's the best magical tattooist in the southeast, a Skindancer, able to bring her amazing tats to life. When a serial killer begins stalking Atlanta's tattooed elite, the police and the Feds seek Dakota's help. Can she find the killer on the dark fringe of the city's Edgeworld? Among its powerful outcasts and tortured loners, what kind of enemies and allies will she attract? Will they see her as an invader, as a seducer, as an unexpected champion ... or as delicious prey

THOUGHTS/OPINION:
Overall I really enjoyed this book which kind of surprises me. At first I wasn't so sure the main character is a 6 foot tall woman with magical tats, a Mohawk and a I'm going to kick your ass mentality that was a little off putting. That is until you get to know her. Dakota Frost is a well known magical tat artist her designs are for lack of a better word incredible. How do I know Mr. Francis describes them in such a way you actually can see them and if his words are any indication I would love a frost bite tat ;)
Dakota is a character that once you get to know you fall in love with her. She only pretends to be tough but has a heart of gold. She is a good artist and can't stand the thought of someone stealing tats on her clients so she is going to do everything she can to help. Even when that gets here sucked in too far.
The plot was fast moving, the world was very creative, and the characters are unforgettable. There is a mystery here and I thought the ending/killer was done very nicely in fact I couldn't see it coming which was a nice twist for me.


THINGS I LIKED:
- I loved the characters I thought they were not only interesting but fun. They all had quirks and flaws which was very interesting. I also liked that Dakota was tough but not so tough to realize that she could be knocked down a peg or too.
- The plot was very interesting and kept my attention through out. I love the idea of magical tattoos in society and people are okay with that. The underground was interesting. Mr. Francis has made a world where magic exist and people are okay with it. The rules are followed throughout and nothing breaks them.
- There were a couple of times I was struck with "how in the hell is she going to get out of this one" moments and yet she did but in a believable way. Nothing happened that I didn't sit back and go huh well that does make sense I mean I would hope I thought of that...

THINGS I DIDN'T LIKE:
- The only real issue I had with this book was the constant lovers and attraction Dakota had to everyone she had her ex-lover a vampire leader (female), she thought the FBI guy was hawt, she thought the werewolf was hawt etc.... I'm glad she didn't turn into a screw everyone in sight kind of girl or the review would be different.

Are you keeping it or passing it on? Keeping I really enjoyed the writing style and characters I can’t wait to see what will happen next for Dakota

Would you recommend this book? YES if you enjoy Urban Fantasy this is the book for you

Challenges:

Out Do Yourself

E-book

NetGalley

Reviewing Next:

Unquiet Dreams by Mark Del Franco

Review ~ The Dragons Saga: Legend of the Oceina Dragon by J.F. Jenkins

TITLE: The Dragons Saga: Legend of the Oceina Dragon

AUTHOR: J.F. Jenkins
COPYRIGHT: 2/21/11
TYPE: y/a fantasy
PAGES: unknown with kindle
SERIES: I’m going with yes

REASON FOR READING: Offered on BLB Tour thought it looked interesting plus I love Dragons!

SUMMARY (from Goodreads):
Darien Oceina is the youngest son of the Great Dragon Lord of the Water. For years he's loved and cherished Tai Dawson from afar. Tai is a simple, ordinary girl who doesn't even know Darien exists. On his eighteenth birthday, he chooses her as his wife. But there’s one problem: She thinks his choice means she's going to be offered as a sacrifice to the Dragon Lord, but instead, she’s forced to move to his home, far away, to give up her life and be his bride.
When she first sees Darien after the ceremony, she doesn’t expect to feel anything but hatred toward him. The two are struggling with the complications of a new marriage when their nation is attacked by a rival dragon species. Together they learn to love one another while they struggle to stay one step ahead in a game where the prize is their survival

THOUGHTS/OPINION:
This book had a lot of potential and I was really shocked that I didn’t enjoy it as much as I thought I would. I found the heroine a little no scratch that really immature. She was offered as a sacrifice to the Dragons which she did props to her. She misses her mom I get that but the night of the sacrifice she sees a really HAWT guy and has sex. Then blames him repeatedly over and over that she is just a glorified breeding tool. She won’t listen to him and she doesn’t believe what he says even though she went into it willingly. I get she is young and so is the hero but, she is wish washy to me. One moment she comments on how nice he was the next she is screaming at him for screwing her when she didn’t need him.

It was a weird combo for me and not something I enjoyed. Now please keep in mind that I am not a strong Y/A reader and it takes A LOT for me to enjoy a y/a book b/c the hero or heroine repeatedly get immature or selfish on me and that annoys the crap out of me. Other than the heroine who couldn’t connect with I found the story to be very entertaining. I love the dragon aspect and the world building that was done with this plot. I would love to read more about this world and would probably enjoy reading about the brothers and their mates or even the mother and father story.

The diary part was the best for me I have to admit that I really enjoyed those scenes and watching Darien come to grips with some heavy information. All in all it wasn’t my favorite but that was simply due to the heroine and not connecting. Where she didn’t connect with me she might with others so I would still recommend this book especially if you enjoy reading Y/A books.

Challenges:
Out Do Yourself Challenge
E-book Challenge





Additional Links: Book Lovin' Bitches Ebook Tours


Disclaimer:


Disclosure of Material Connection: i am a member of the Book Lovin' Bitches Ebook Tours and a copy was provided to me by the author. although payment may have been received by Book Lovin' Bitches Ebook Tours, no payment was received by me in exchange for this review nor was there an obligation to write a positive one. all opinions expressed here are entirely mine and may not necessarily agree with those of the author, the book's publisher and publicist or the readers of this review. this disclosure is in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255, Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising

Review ~ Wickedly Charming by Kristine Grayson

TITLE: Wickedly Charming

AUTHOR: Kristine Grayson
COPYRIGHT: 5/1/11
TYPE: fairy tale retake
PAGES: 352
SERIES: no I don’t think so

REASON FOR READING: Sourcebook offered up the ARC and I love me some fairy-tale remakes

SUMMARY (from Goodreads):
Cinderella's Prince Charming is divorced and at a dead-end in his career, so he opens a bookstore and travels the land ordering books and discovering new authors. Still handsome and still charming, he has given up on women, royalty, and anything that smacks of a future.


Mellie is sick and tired of being called the Evil Stepmother. She did her best by her stepdaughter Snow White, but the girl resented her to no end and made all kinds of false accusations.


Neither of them believes in happily ever after anymore, but both of them believe in happily for the moment...

****You can win a copy of this book (or anybook on the giveaway shelf) simply by leaving a comment with your email account. Lucky winner will be picked next Friday!****

THOUGHTS/OPINION:
This is a fairytale retake on the traditional HEA. First off the wicked step-mother is ticked off that we here on Earth think that she is wicked. I mean after all we never got to hear her own story did we? And what about those Prince Charmings we heard all about growing up as a little girl haven’t you ever wondered about their marriages? Did they really get a HEA? I know I was always curious as a child and would ask my mother the HEA questions with a follow up yes I understand they lived that way but how do you know they did?

Needless to say she would tell me to go to sleep. Ms. Grayson however, has decided to answer the above questions in this cute little romantic story. Apparently not every fairy tale creature or story character does live HEA. In fact Prince Charming is divorced who would’ve thought? Not to mention that evil step mother is in fact not so evil. Did we ever wonder if maybe just maybe her ward/child was evil and drove her mad? So I have to say this book managed to hit all the right spots for me.

I loved learning about the fairytale creatures and their not so HEAs I loved learning how the world of Fairy differs from our world and I have to admit that this was a very cute sweet book.

Don’t go into this book expecting much b/c come on people it’s a fairy tale retake but do go into it expecting romance that is realistic, fairy tale characters, and the thought that fairytales don’t always turn out the way we want.

One of my favorite parts is when Charming is explain to the Step mother Mellie that she has to revamp her image like vampires did you know the sparkling ones LOL I howled at that ;)

Are you keeping it or passing it on? While it was cute it’s not going to be a re-read for me so I am giving away my copy to one lucky reader!

Challenges:
Out Do Yourself Challenge
Sourcebook Arc

Review ~ Snowball in Hell by Josh Lanyon

TITLE: Snowball in Hell

AUTHOR: Josh Lanyon

COPYRIGHT: 2011

TYPE: M/M mystery/romance
PAGES: 191
SERIES: yes apparently this is book one!

****Leave a comment and you could win a copy of any book off my giveaway shelf!****

REASON FOR READ:
Love me some Josh Lanyon and I thought the book sounded interesting

SUMMARY (from Goodreads):
It's 1943 and the world is at war. Journalist Nathan Doyle has just returned home from North Africa--still recovering from wounds received in the Western Desert Campaign--when he's asked to cover the murder of a society blackmailer.
Lt. Matthew Spain of the LAPD homicide squad hates the holidays since the death of his beloved wife a few months earlier, and this year isn’t looking much cheerier what with the threat of attack by the Japanese and a high-profile homicide investigation. Matt likes Nathan; maybe too much.


If only he didn’t suspect that Nathan had every reason to commit murder.

THOUGHTS/OPINION:
I have to admit that I am relatively new to the M/M genre that being said I don’t branch out much. Mr. Lanyon is one that I auto buy or try to get every time. In fact his Adrien English series is one of my favorite and the first I’d ever read in this genre. Fan girl squeal over…

Okay I don’t think I ever really thought about how hard it had to be for people in the 40’s or earlier to be different. And by different I mean to follow in love with someone of the same sex. I guess since I’ve grown up with gay and lesbian friends and have been around it a lot I never gave any thoughts to how hard it must have been for people who couldn’t come out over fear of death, beatings, or losing their jobs. To me while they are still fighting to be accepted it has never really sank in at what others before this generation has had to go through.

That being said this book really helped me to open my eyes about it. Mr. Lanyon has painted a world at work in 1943. His two main characters are war weary and tired. Lt. Spain was injured in the war and sent home to his wife who died from cancer recently. During the war he discovered that while he loved his wife he was happier with men. Nathan on the other hand has always know that he prefers men to women. Out of both of these men I felt sorry for Nathan who only wants love but due to society can’t get it, can’t have it in the open without fear, and it appears at times feels he doesn’t deserve it.

The way these two come together is interesting Nathan is a reporter and Matt is a police officer. A murder has been committed that Nathan is covering and discovers that the deceased happens to be someone he saw last alive. But, does he tell Matt this information? Nope. He then goes all Adrien on me and tries to solve the murders on his own. In the meantime Matt tries to protect him while also solving the murder.

The mystery was interesting there were a lot of suspects and it was fun to watch them get crossed off only to be brought back later. I was guessing toward the end and happily I did not guess right (I hate figuring these things out it ruins it for me). I really enjoyed this book.

If I had any complaints it would be that it was too short and the next one isn’t coming out tomorrow!

Favorite Quotes:
Jonesy said, “Lot of things could go wrong with that plan. The fact is the kidnappers might never have received the money.” “It was their plan,” Bob said. “We didn’t get a vote. We had to do it their way.” ~ Not sure on the page due to kindle but I loved how it shows the style of writing Mr. Lanyon has.

Challenges:
Out Do Yourself Challenge
E-book Challenge
Netgalley Review



Reviewing Next:
Wickedly Charming by Kristine Grayson

Review ~ Wayward by Ashley Girardi

TITLE:Wayward
AUTHOR: Ashley Girardi
COPYRIGHT:3/27/11
TYPE: I'm going to go with y/a fantasy...
PAGES:157 on the kindle
SERIES:yes book 1 in 3 I believe

****Win a copy of this book by leaving a comment****

REASON FOR READING: Was offered on BLB Tours so I jumped at the chance to read it!

SUMMARY (from Goodreads):
Born without magic, seventeen-year-old Helena “Hex” Wayward is an embarrassment to her power-hungry relatives.
As the weakest member of the world’s most deadly magical family, Hex learns early how to avoid confrontation. There’s no defending herself against an errant curse or the pit-demon that her cousins like to summon during family reunions.
When the dark magic inside of her -- magic that she never dreamt even existed -- erupts in a violent display, it kills a member of a rival family.
Now, Hex's family hopes to use her magic for their own sinister purposes and their enemies just want her dead. Abandoning her magic will leave Hex defenseless but she's seen how quickly power corrupts even the best intentions.
Caught between the seductive sorcerer who wants her power for his own and the forbidden love of a human boy, Hex has to make a choice:
Save her life or save her soul.

THOUGHTS/OPINION:
This book had me confused at first then somehow I looked up and I was done 3 hours later. It moved with a wonderful pace, the plot began to pick up, and finally the mystery sucked me in and I had no choice but to sit back and enjoy.

This book completely took me by surprise I was rooting for Hex and at the same time I could sympathize with her which is very unusual for me especially since she was a 17 year old girl. Hex was a real person though she was written in such a way that I wanted to get to know her better, to help her, but most of all I was rooting for her. The best part she didn't do anything TSTL which is a blessing b/c it is getting harder and harder to find solid written y/a books whose females aren't Bella from Twilight (I shall die if the creepy vampire or the love of my life isn't with me.) Hex isn't one of those. She isn't a whiner she is someone in a very difficult position trying to stay alive and have a someone normal life.
This world is very different than what I expected it was a cross between Black Jewels (how dark and dangerous everyone was and figuring out who you can trust if anyone) and Laurell K Hamilton's Meredith Gentry series. Either way Ms. Girardi scored for me and I have to say I can not personally wait until the next one comes out and I really, really, really hope that I get a chance to read it *wink wink*


****You can win a copy of this book by leaving a comment****

Disclosure of Material Connection: i am a member of the Book Lovin' Bitches E-book Tours and a copy was provided by the author. although payment may have been received by Book Lovin' Bitches E-book Tours, i did not receive any payment in exchange for this review nor was i obligated to write a positive one. all opinions expressed here are entirely my own and may not necessarily agree with those of the author, the book's publisher and publicist or the readers of this review. this disclosure is in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255, Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising

Review ~ The Survivors by Amanda Harvard

TITLE: The Survivors

AUTHOR: Amanda Harvard
COPYRIGHT: 3/29/11
TYPE: Urban Fantasy
PAGES: 283
SERIES: Yes book 1

REASON FOR READING: Look really good and I was itching to buy something with my kindle

SUMMARY (from Goodreads):
In 1692, when witch trials gripped the community of Salem, Massachusetts, twenty-six children were accused as witches, exiled, and left for dead. Fourteen of them survived.
The Survivors is the first installment of the tantalizing tales of the fourteen ill-fated Survivors and their descendants, who have been content in hiding for over three centuries. Isolated on a Montana mountainside, only Sadie, the rogue daughter, dares to abandon the family's sacred hiding place. But no matter how far Sadie runs, something always pulls her back.
On a muggy summer night in Tennessee, she witnesses a shocking scene that will change her life forever. It is the first in a sequence of events that will drag her from the human world she's sought to belong to for over a century and send her back to her Puritanical family and into an uncertain future filled with cunning witches, mysterious nosferatu shape-shifters, dangerous eretica and vieczy vampires, millennia-old mythology, and the search for her own mortality. After all...
HOW DO YOU KILL A SURVIVOR?
The Survivors will steal your heart and invade your mind. Fall into the pages of Sadie's life, a world so frighteningly similar to your own, you'll find yourself wanting to go to the Montana mountains to find the Survivors for yourself.
And it is only the beginning

THOUGHTS/OPINION:

The book was slow and confusing at parts then at other parts it was information overload HOLY CRAP. There were times I was flipping back through the pages hoping I could remember where that quote was and MY GOD at the end I was so lost and yet so interested I basically had to re-read half the story all over again. But, that is a good thing b/c usually when a book is slow I lose interest. This book however, had it all love, mythology, magic, action, mystery, and travel. Who could ask for more?

THINGS I LIKED:
- I enjoyed the overall story line I thought it was very interesting and the characters kept me interested enough to continue reading. I wanted to know who the Winters were I wanted to know how you could kill a Survivor.
- I loved the love story and how sweet they were:
Ex: He didn’t say much, but he held me closer and closer as he made his way up one arm and down the other until he had kissed every single scar. It was the most intimate experience I had ever had. I was so vulnerable like that, my secrets exposed. But he didn’t pull away in fear, and he hadn’t been repulsed. Instead he took great care to show me how these scars hut him too, and how he cared for me –scars and all.

I seriously fell in love with him all over b/c wow what a great moment.
-I loved that the hero and heroine had never had sex before and were very modest they didn’t want to unless it was with a special person. And can I say in fact they did not have sex in this story and I was happy to be able to read something with SEX being the main point. It was refreshing for once!

THINGS I DIDN'T LIKE:

There were so many different mythological creatures I had a hard time keeping everything straight on what was important to the story and what I could forget.

- I seriously got sick of all the name brand crap the author used. I get it they have money and they wear expensive crap I don’t care. It was like reading JR Ward again without the gangsta talk

Ex: He looked like he was pulled straight from the pages of editorial ads in Vogue – Ralph Lauren Black Label, maybe Prada, or even some of the more subdued Dolce and Gabbana. His jeans were nice and dark but worn in – Dolce, I was pretty sure – and fitted. And he had on a crisp white Dior dress shirt. He’d removed his chocolate velvet sport coat – I recognized it from Ferragmo’s fall catalogue from the year I came to Nashville…

I DON’T CARE get over it.

Are you keeping it or passing it on? Right now I’m holding on to it and I will purchase the next one which will determine if I keep this one or not.

Would you recommend this book? Yes it had some flaws but all in all it was an engaging story.

Favorite Quotes: The quote with the scars my gosh that was beautiful.

Challenges:
Out Do Yourself Challenge
Ebook Challenge

Reviewing Next:
The Discovery of Socket Grenny by Tony Bertauski

Review ~ Wayward Soul by Kim Bowman

TITLE: Wayward Soul
AUTHOR: Kim Bowman
COPYRIGHT: 2/15/11
TYPE: paranormal romance
PAGES: 57
SERIES: not that I know of

REASON FOR READING: Saw it offered on the BLB tour and it looked interesting

SUMMARY (from Goodreads):
When Zanna Seoul accidentally causes the death of a fellow spirit guide’s charge while trying to save the life of the man she loves, she is stripped of her position and banished to Earth to die. In the spirit world, one doesn’t mess with what’s written. With Zanna no longer guiding him and his memory of her erased, Owen Nash is left wide open as the target of the vengeful spirit guide who feels he’s been wronged. A guide who also happens to be a werewolf. Once on Earth, Zanna refuses to stand by and watch Owen die, so she intervenes again, setting off a chain of events that could mean death for all of them if she doesn’t go back and undo the mess she’s made. Can Zanna succeed before the werewolf does

THOUGHTS/OPINION:
Okay keep in mind this book is literally 57 pages. But in that 57 pages you learn of a culture, a world that didn’t exist, punishment if you break the laws, love and a couple of near death experiences that make it all somehow a very interesting yet quick read. Seriously I actually enjoyed it.

I liked the world that was lightly touched on. It had just enough that I grasped what was occurring but didn’t overload me where the story got lost.

The characters were fleshed out as well as one can be for 57 pages. I liked the way it worked between a spirit guide and a mortal

The ending was a little ugh with the epilogue and no I won’t ruin it for you.

Dislikes: the shortness of the story didn’t leave it much room and would have been a fantastic story fleshed out more.

The villain was seriously a villain for no other reason than that and well I thought it would’ve been cooler with a better back story but hey she only had 57 pages LOL I can’t ask for more right?

Are you keeping it or passing it on? Sure I’d re-read it

Would you recommend this book? Yeah it was quick and cute

Challenges:
Out Do Yourself
E-book Challenge
BLB Tour





Additional Links:Book Lovin' Bitches Ebook Tours

Disclaimer:
Disclosure of Material Connection: i am a member of the Book Lovin' Bitches Ebook Tours and a copy was provided to me by the author. although payment may have been received by Book Lovin' Bitches Ebook Tours, no payment was received by me in exchange for this review nor was there an obligation to write a positive one. all opinions expressed here are entirely mine and may not necessarily agree with those of the author, the book's publisher and publicist or the readers of this review. this disclosure is in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255, Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising

Review ~ The Restorer by Amanda Stevens

TITLE: The Restorer
AUTHOR: Amanda Stevens
COPYRIGHT: 5/1/11
TYPE: Urban Fantasy
PAGES: 384
SERIES: Yes the first in a series

REASON FOR READING: The summary just looked amazing! I had to have it

SUMMARY (from Goodreads):
My name is Amelia Gray. I'm a cemetery restorer who sees ghosts. In order to protect myself from the parasitic nature of the dead, I've always held fast to the rules passed down from my father. But now a haunted police detective has entered my world and everything is changing, including the rules that have always kept me safe.


It started with the discovery of a young woman's brutalized body in an old Charleston graveyard I've been hired to restore. The clues to the killer—and to his other victims—lie in the headstone symbolism that only I can interpret. Devlin needs my help, but his ghosts shadow his every move, feeding off his warmth, sustaining their presence with his energy. To warn him would be to invite them into my life. I've vowed to keep my distance, but the pull of his magnetism grows ever stronger even as the symbols lead me closer to the killer and to the gossamer veil that separates this world from the next.

THOUGHTS/OPINION:
I was beyond surprised at how much I loved this book! First off the book is about a graveyard restorer (how often do you see that as a job description?) who sees ghost. Yeah you saw that right she works in a graveyard and yet sees ghost however, she pretends to not see them in order to protect herself. The problem she runs into Devlin who is haunted (has his own ghost that are attached to him) and she has a major attraction to. Things get weird from there. There is a dead body, a secret society, ghost, a mystery, more dead bodies, and well the mystery between what Devlin is doing to Amelia and how that is affecting her.

THINGS I LIKED:
- I loved Amelia she was a great character with a twist. She always played it safe until Devlin and now she is stuck in an attraction she knows can’t end well but for the life of her can’t stop. It is actually something I believed in not a we’re madly in love the moment we saw each other thing. Ms. Stevens did an excellent job of making me feel Amelia’s connection to Devlin and his personal struggles

- Did I mention that I loved the job that Amelia has. First off she restores graves and graveyards and she has a blog very cool!

-This book was not a romance but had enough of an attraction to draw me in. Plus I have to admit this book was creepy there were a few nights I had to sleep with the bathroom lights on. Trust when I say that it was creepy and yet it sucked me in and I had to finish it in order to find out who was killing all these people, and why was the killer communicating with Amelia?

-My gosh the author is very poetic I was surprised at how beautiful this author wrote. There were times the description was so well done I felt and smelled the things Amelia was doing and smelling. (Including the goose bumps and freak outs she had!)

THINGS I DIDN'T LIKE:
- If I had to pick one thing I didn’t enjoy about this book it would be the root doctor’s slang/talk/mumble stuff I had to skim past it the accent was bad.

-Other than that and the whole secret society plot line that you will have to read about in order to understand I loved this book!!!!

Are you keeping it or passing it on? Yeah this is a must re-read especially when the next one comes out!

Would you recommend this book? I HIGHLY recommend this book to anyone looking for a good thriller/creepy feeling book with an excellent mystery!

Favorite Quotes:
Scorching fingers of sunrise began to creep over the horizon. A mild breeze stirred the palmetto fronds and deepened the scent of the magnolia blossoms that peeked like roosting doves from nests of dark, glossy leaves. Pg. 99 I believe? My kindle notes and I don’t get along!

This is when Amelia describes Devlin: secretive eyes and brooding demeanor were powerful libations to a closet romantic like me. In spite of his modern trappings, he had an old-world air about him. An intoxicating fusion of Byron, Bronte and Poe with a modern twist. And like the fictional creations of the aforementioned, he had a deadly weakness. He was a haunted man. ~ Love it!! Want to say page 11 I might be wrong bear with me on the kindle notes.



Challenges:
Out Do Yourself Challenge
E-book Challenge

Reviewing Next:
Wayward Soul by Kim Bowman

Review ~ The Madness of Lord Ian Mackenzie by Jennifer Ashley

TITLE: The Madness of Lord Ian Mackenzie
AUTHOR: Jennifer Ashley
COPYRIGHT: 2009
TYPE: historical romance
PAGES: 320
SERIES: Yes the first one in the Highland Pleasures series

REASON FOR READING: It’s been on the TBR shelf forever and had excellent reviews. I finally decided I had to know what it was about.

SUMMARY (from Goodreads):
The year is 1881. Meet the Mackenzie family--rich, powerful, dangerous, eccentric. A lady couldn't be seen with them without ruin. Rumors surround them--of tragic violence, of their mistresses, of their dark appetites, of scandals that set England and Scotland abuzz.


The youngest brother, Ian, known as the Mad Mackenzie, spent most of his young life in an asylum, and everyone agrees he is decidedly odd. He's also hard and handsome and has a penchant for Ming pottery and beautiful women.


Beth Ackerley, widow, has recently come into a fortune. She has decided that she wants no more drama in her life. She was raised in drama--an alcoholic father who drove them into the workhouse, a frail mother she had to nurse until her death, a fussy old lady she became constant companion to. No, she wants to take her money and find peace, to travel, to learn art, to sit back and fondly remember her brief but happy marriage to her late husband.


And then Ian Mackenzie decides he wants her.

THOUGHTS/OPINION:
Okay first and foremost I love a hero with a disability. It can be he’s blind, stupid, limp, or just bitter I love it. And Ian has one I personally thought it was a form of autism (the highest functioning form) but I’ve heard other theories. No matter what it is he had a hard life from a child on. I also love a spirited female who is okay with what she has and doesn’t need more and Beth is that woman. These two characters are explosive from page one and interesting. They made me laugh, they made me sad, they may me happy and they made me laugh. Throw in all the brothers and their S.O’s and I was hooked.

The mystery was there enough that I could figure it out but couldn’t. I loved all the twist and turns of Ian’s life and what happened to him. I enjoyed learning about Beth and her life and even when she did some stupid things I actually excused it b/c hey it’s Beth and she was doing it for Ian.

This book has mystery, love, action, and well meddling brothers. It also has ming bowls from China which will make since when you read the book and it has history. All in all I didn’t find much that I didn’t like the only quip I have is the dreaded baby issue that ALWAYS occurs and well annoys the crap out of me. That being said I can’t wait to read the next one!

Are you keeping it or passing it on? For sure keeping it

Would you recommend this book? Yes I highly recommend this book for anyone who enjoys historical romance


Don't be alarmed there is a new cover. I Personally prefer the old but what can you do?

Challenges:
Out do yourself challenge
TBR challenge

Reviewing Next:
The Survivors by Amanda Harvard

Re-Review ~ Unshapely Things by Mark Del Franco

TITLE: Unshapely Things
AUTHOR: Mark Del Franco
COPYRIGHT: 1/30/2007
TYPE: urban fantasy
PAGES: 305
SERIES: Yes first in a five book series so far

REASON FOR READING:
I apparently read this the first time in September of 2007. Since I had the next ones in the series I thought I should re-read it in order to remember for the next books.

SUMMARY (from Goodreads):
In the alleys of the decrepit Boston neighborhood known as the Weird, fairy prostitutes are turning up dead. The crime scenes show signs of residual magic, but the Guild, which polices the fey, has more "important" crimes to investigate and dumps the case on human law enforcement.


Boston police call in Connor Grey, a druid and former hotshot Guild investigator-whose magical abilities were crippled after a run-in with a radical environmentalist elf. As Connor battles red tape and his own shortcomings, he realizes that the murders are not random, but part of an ancient magical ritual. And if Connor can't figure out the killer's M.O., the culmination of the spell might just bring about a worldwide cataclysm

THOUGHTS/OPINION:
For some reason the first time around I was absolutely madly in love with this book. I thought it was awesome. Since my second reading of this book my thoughts have changed. I thought it moved really slowly in parts. I felt like a lot was being set up and a lot of history was being told.

Now that I’ve said all that please keep in mind it could be because this was a re-read so I might have been remembering the book over and over again. I did enjoy the characters I did enjoy the mystery aspect. I liked that Connor Grey reminded me a lot of Harry Dresden but not so much that I was rolling my eyes and constantly comparing him to my Harry.

I liked that Connor had something wrong with him something that took him from being SUPER powerful to an almost human like state. And he had a good group of friends that stood by him and helped whenever possible.

What I didn’t like is how whinny he came off sometimes. Poor me, I can’t do this, wow I was so powerful and now I can’t do anything. It got a little old after a while and I wanted nothing more than to reach through the page and shake him. I am glad that eventually he learned that while he didn’t have all the power he did have some uses.

The mystery was good enough that I couldn’t remember who did it which is because I usually remember things like that but for some reason this time I just couldn’t and that was nice. It’s also a big fear when re-reading that I might remember everything and thus not enjoy the re-read. Once I got to the middle part I was back on track and thoroughly enjoyed myself.

Are you keeping it or passing it on? This will depend on the second book if I enjoy it I will keep the series if not I will put it on the giveaway list.

Would you recommend this book? I do think so far this series is pretty good. If you like the Harry Dresden books then this will be right up your alley



Challenges:
Re-read Challenge
Out Do Yourself Challenge

Reviewing Next:
The Madness of Lord Ian Mackenzie by Jennifer Ashley