Thursday 30 April 2015

Review ~ Yield to Me (Club Excelsior #1) by Sarah Castille

Yield to Me (Club Excelsior, #1)eARC received via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review

Release Date: May 27th 2015

Description:
No-holds-barred attraction...

Amateur MMA fighter, Marcy Foster is determined to win the state championship. But dark secrets and a broken trust mean there's one submission she just can’t master. Fortunately Club Excelsior has hired a coach who knows all the right moves.

Sexy, confident and commanding, fight consultant Jax demands control, both in and out of the ring. But once he has Marcy against the ropes, Jax knows he’s in too deep. He has the dominance to give her what she needs, but once he unleashes her hidden passions, there's no going back.

Under Jax's skilled hands, Marcy submits to her deepest desires. But when her personal and professional worlds collide, she is forced to face a brutal truth — yielding to her darkest needs may be the one thing that costs her the fight...and her heart.

*This novella was originally published in the New York Times bestselling anthology, Unraveled, and now contains 50% new content*

My Opinion

Having read two books in this author's Redemption series I was interested to see what she did with a new series where the books are shorter but still centred around MMA.

Yield to Me hooked me from the start. I like the tension between Jax and Marcy and want intrigued to see how their relationship would develop. There was a clear spark and chemistry with them and it was only enhanced by the fight training. I liked the fire Marcy had despite being a submissive.

However, whilst I like around two thirds of this book, it did lose my interest towards the end. I think it was because of the length really. The author kept throwing in statements like "couldn't save them" or "haven't spoken to them in years" but we never got to feel the pain or emotion. They were casual statements that didn't really bring anything to the book and I think it would have been better if they weren't included. It would have meant my attention probably would have stayed on the book rather than wishing for a deeper connection and more information.


Anyway, overall, whilst I preferred the author's other work, it was still an easy read. It was okay to break up the time and it may interest you.


3

Wednesday 29 April 2015

Review ~ Bomb by Sarah Mussi

BombeARC received via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review

Release Date: May 7th 2015

Publisher: Hodder Children's Books

Description:
When Genesis goes on an internet date she is only anxious that this latest guy won't be 'The One'. She's not at all worried about meeting a dodgy bloke or getting in too deep. And when her date appears she texts her best mate, Jackson, to let him know that she thinks this time, he just might be 'The One'. And he texts her back with a huge: I LIKE.

It's the one all right. But not in the way she expects.

For when Genesis wakes up the next day, she can't remember a thing. She can't remember where she is, or how she got there. And she can hardly move because she is strapped into some kind of body armour ... and then a voice sounds in her head: 'Get on to the 37 going north. You are strapped to a vest made entirely of explosives. At the push of one button I can detonate you right where you stand.'

To her horror, Genesis has become an agent of mass destruction. The countdown to detonation begins now...

My Opinion

Apologises for the slight rant, but this book really irritated me and every review I tried to write came out the same.

What the hell? That is the only thought going through my mind right now. I thought this book was going to be a great nail-biting, on-the-edge-of-your-seat thriller with a modern twist thrown in. I was excited to start it, but all I feel now is severely disappointed and confused.

This book didn't start off well. It lost my interest from chapter two with the long strings of text and little speech. Things moved along slowly and felt unrealistic. As well as this the constant life reference irritated me and only became worse as the book went on. I seriously thought I was going on DNF this book, and now I realise I should have. The only thing that kept me reading was wanting to know whether they got the bomb off Genesis. However, even that side of things was a massive let down.

As well this, everything leading up to the end was stupid. I mean of course the one person they choose to strap a bomb to has a friend in the military who knows bomb experts and has a beyond normal knowledge of technology. Out of everyone they could have chosen the terrorists choose someone with a marine as a friend who can help her with everything. Lucky huh? (That's not a spoiler, it happens near the start)

I just didn't buy it. Sure there are links to possible realities, but I found the story bland. Not a lot really happened and I never got to know the characters or grow to connect with them on any emotional level. I get that it's probably not an easy thing to do considering the situation, but it just made the book boring. I didn't care what happened and I forced myself to read it in one sitting because if I didn't I wouldn't have picked it back up.

And the ending! I don't get it and this has what's annoyed me most. I read all the way to the end for one reason and it's never solved. Totally and utterly conclusion-less. I hated it. What the hell happened? It needed an epilogue to clear it up as whilst you assume you know it gives no finality and felt like a cop-out. I needed certain questions answered an they weren't. What happened to Dave, Genesis, Bristol? It was just stupid, sudden, and it felt like the author didn't know how to end it well and just gave up writing.


Overall whilst there was a good concept behind this book it was just executed badly. I didn't like the writing, what could have been an exciting story was bland, and the ending just added the final reason for me to push it down to one star. The ending was confusing, not satisfying, and made reading the whole damn thing a waste of my time. It's probably the worst book I've read so far this year and I'd not recommend this book.

1

Tuesday 28 April 2015

Review ~ Black Rainbow by J.J. McAvoy

Black RainboweARC received via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review

Release Date: May 15th 2015

Publisher: NYLA

Description:
After an erotic one-week fling with a musician she meets in a bar, Thea Cunning never expects to see Levi Black again. Then Monday morning comes around, and she discovers that her former lover is not only her professor, but he’s also one of the top criminal lawyers in the state of Massachusetts. 

With everyone in class vying to be one of the twelve disciples—a group of twelve students that Professor Black takes under his wing—tensions run high. Thea considers dropping his class, given their passionate week together and their undeniable chemistry. After all, there are other (less infuriatingly sexy) law professors on campus. 

But to accomplish her goal and get her father out of prison, Thea knows she needs to learn under the best of the best—and that’s Levi Black. 

But can she learn under the best, without being under the best?

My Opinion

This was an enjoyable read overall. I will admit that I skimmed over and dismissed it to begin with when I first saw it up on NetGalley, but I came back to it, and I'm glad I did in the end.

This book had me hooked the whole way through. I enjoyed the relationship and how it developed. It was fun to watch Levi mess with Thea in class and also how the bond between them grew. I'm not sure the past chapters were all that necessary as although they give the full back story, having sex for a week wasn't a hard concept to grasp. They did become a bit repetitive and were probably my least favourite part of this story.

Thankfully though they do come to an end quickly and the story remains in the present day. I liked the dual POV and thought it worked well with the book. I did prefer Levi's sections, which is unusual, but I thought he was the stronger character.

As for the story I did like it overall. I thought there was a spark between the characters and that side of things was written well. However the law side of things didactic development for me. Things moved way too quickly with little detail in the first few cases and the ending for me was rushed. I know the cases weren't the main focus to begin with but the one in the end was and I just felt the resolve was too easy and over too fast.


Overall though this was an enjoyable read. It did keep me hooked, it was hot, and I engaged with the characters well.

4

Monday 27 April 2015

Review ~ Fall with Me (Wait for You, #4) by J. Lynn/Jennifer L. Armentrout

Fall with Me (Wait for You, #4)Paperback purchased by myself.

Release Date: March 31st 2015

Publisher: Avon (Harper Collins)

Description:
Eleven months ago, bartender and weird-shirt-wearing extraordinaire Roxy and Officer Reece Anders had a one night stand. Well, kind of. She’s been in love with him since she was fifteen, and he wishes that night they shared never happened. She’s sworn him off forever, but the past and future collide, forcing her to rely on the one man who broke her heart not once, but twice.

Her best friend since birth has been in a long-term care facility since he became a victim of a hate crime years ago, and the person who put him in there is out of prison and wanting to make amends with him and Roxy. She’s not sure she has room for forgiveness in her and when she begins to receive frightening messages and is on the receiving end of escalating violence, she thinks she knows who is to blame. The man who already destroyed one life already.

But Reece isn’t convinced. The threats are too personal, and even if Roxy doesn’t believe him, he’s not willing to let anyone hurt her. Including himself. He’s already messed up more than once when it comes to Roxy and he’s not going to let history repeat itself.

My Opinion

I love this series. It was by complete chance I came across it, but I've been hooked on it ever since. I've been dying to read Fall With Me since I finished my ARC of books 3.

Anyway, just like with the other books, Fall With Me has a little bit of everything that I love from this author. It's steamy, funny, witty, and a little tense because of the threats. All of it is combined brilliantly into an engaging story I wasn't able to put down.

I enjoyed getting to know Reece and Roxy. They had their little quirks and I liked the changing dynamic of their relationship. Once again Armentrout creates a perfectly hot guy who is slightly tortured and it's impossible not to love him. Reece is strong, protective, and fights for Roxy. I could sympathise with both characters and could have read so much more.

There is one criticism I have with this book though and that is the mystery element was predictable. I'm not going to say any more as I don't want to give anything away, but it came as no surprise when everything was revealed.


Overall though this was another great read and definitely worth the wait in the post. I can't wait for the next instalment.

5

Sunday 26 April 2015

Review ~ Unbreakable (Unbreakable, #1) by Rebecca Shea

Unbreakable (Unbreakable, #1)ebook downloaded from Amazon for free.

Release Date: September 7th 2013

Publisher: Self-published

Description:
*This book contains mature subject matter and is not intended for those under 17 years of age.* 

Jessica Harper is the epitome of perfection. She’s a good daughter, makes excellent grades, and always strays on the safe side of life. The last thing she thought would ever happen was falling in love with her best friend’s brother. But sometimes fate just has a way of bringing two people together.

Wide receiver for the University of Arizona, Gabe Garcia, seems to have it all. When his feelings for Jessica come to surface, Gabe will give up everything to be with her. 

But what happens when a tragedy abruptly changes the course of your life? For Jessica and Gabe, everything they thought they knew about each other will be questioned. Sometimes, there are scars in life that are cut too deep to completely heal. 

Will their love prove to be unbreakable, or will it shatter and prove fate is just another lie?

My Opinion

This was an all right read, but that's all I really feel. I can't complain too much seeing as I downloaded it for free, but I expected it to move me more than it did.

For me things just happened way to fast. There was never any growth in Gabe and Jessica's relationship. It was all in your face and over so quick. Things started off okay but my attention drifted towards the end. I never really felt the characters' pain or experienced their emotions.


Like I said, it was an okay read but it didn't hook or draw much emotion from me.

2

Saturday 25 April 2015

Review ~ Every Little Piece (Second Chances #1) by Kate Ashton

Every Little Piece (Second Chances, #1)
ebook downloaded via Amazon for free.

Release Date: December 21st 2013

Publisher: Self-published

Description:
Secrets never stay in the past. The night before high school graduation changes everything. Lies are told. Mistakes are made. Secrets tucked away. Lives are changed in the span of a few hours. A year later, Haley is still reeling, numb with the constant ache of guilt. She's in a place she never expected to be: lost without her friends and Seth. Until he enters her life again, dredging up everything she's trying to forget. Everything about that night. Seth returns to his hometown determined to share his truth, his side of the story. He desperately needs to make things right with Haley, even if it means losing her forever. Because the truth will ruin any chance of her ever loving him again. Except neither of them are prepared for the shock of what really happened the night before graduation.

My Opinion

This was another freebie I downloaded awhile ago. I've decided to make a dent in this pile and because this one seemed like a short, contemporary read I wanted to give it a shot.

Every Little Piece was an interesting read. It held my attention and had me flipping pages quickly so that I finished it in a matter of hours. Things moved along at a quick pace and kept me interested.

One thing that surprised me though was the lack of romance. Because of the speed I never really felt like I got to knew the character, especially with the one year jump. There was so much I missed out on and once that time was gone things sped along but I didn't buy into the emotions.

Don't get me wrong, it was an easy read and I'd recommend it, I was just expecting to feel more. It didn't tug on my heartstrings like I expected and I felt something was missing.

Overall for a freebie it was good. It held my I retest but I just wanted more.

3

Friday 24 April 2015

Review ~ No One's Angel (Chadwell Hearts, #1) by Kelly Walker

No One's Angel (Chadwell Hearts, #1)ebook downloaded via Amazon for free

Release Date: November 13th 2013

Description:
Chadwell Hearts books can be read as standalones. Each book follows a different couple. 

Tess used to spend more hours than she'd care to admit playing her favorite computer game, using the nickname Angel. She could pretend her life was different, and she could pretend Arion was just a friend. But a girl needs more to keep her warm at night than pixels, and she traded her virtual heaven for a real-life hell. Now she's on the run from a past she won't talk about, and the only place she has to go is the doorstep of the friend she's never actually met.

When Angel disappeared from their nightly games, it nearly destroyed Arion. He threw himself into work and women, but he can't help knowing the one-night stands will never compare to the angel who haunts his dreams. At first, when she shows up soaking wet and scared-shitless on his doorstep, he thinks his prayers have been answered.

But the more Arion tries to keep Angel close, the more her fear drives her away. If they are ever going to have a chance for a future, they'll first have to deal with the past that hasn't forgotten her any more than she's forgotten it--and Arion will have to learn how to let her go.

My Opinion

I've had this book for awhile--I downloaded after finding it free on Amazon. However, very rarely do I read those books unless they're novellas. Anyway, somehow it got into my reading list and I decided to take a chance on it as I felt like reading something I wasn't obligated to review. And I'm glad I did.

Whilst things start off a little unbelievably in this book, I'm glad I stuck with it. I thought things happened a little quickly in the first few chapter and emotions were thrown around without making much sense. I didn't really buy into the sudden romantic feelings yet things do progress better as the book goes on.

I liked the characters in the book. Arion/Axel had a good heart and I liked his loyalty. Despite the romance coming a little too soon to begin with, it was clear to see he cared for Angel/Tess. You can't help but fall in love with him to as he fights for her and to protect her. As well as that his past makes his emotions more raw and heartfelt.

Similarly, I liked Angel. She's an easy character to sympathise with and of course she's been through some terrible things. In a way the gaming relationship meant she could open up to Arion quicker. It meant things moved along quickly and the answers I desired weren't kept from me for too long.


Overall, despite the beginning this was a good read. I read it in one sitting and will definitely be reading more.

4

Thursday 23 April 2015

Review ~ The Fragile Fall (Undone #1) by Kristy Love

The Fragile Fall (Undone, #1)ebook received via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review

Release Date: August 6th 2014

Description:
I’ve destroyed everything in my life and now I’m left with nothing. 

Alone and scared. 
Broken and shattered. 
But I’ve found a way to deal with it. 
Instead of all the pain being on the inside, I make the outside ache too. Anything to make it easier to breathe. 
Until one beautiful morning when I look outside and see her. 

She tries to help me… 
But I’m lost. 

And I’m not sure I can ever be found.

* * *

His gentle eyes watch me from behind the window, the boy shrouded in mystery. I wasn't expecting what happened when our worlds collided.

His storm to my calm. 
His dark to my light. 

I try to hold everything together. To put his life, and mine, back together. 

But everything falls apart. My family. Him. Me. 

And I'm trying to pick up the pieces.

My Opinion

This is a tough one for me. On one level I connected with The Fragile fall in a personal level having gone through similar situations with friends. I didn't expect the subjects that were brought to light so it was kind of a shock. However, on the other hand it didn't really hold my attention the whole way through and I can't hep but feel something is missing.

I've read a lot of books that deal with self harm and I've seen a lot of variations (good and bad). For the first 39% I couldn't stop reading this book. I wanted to see Will recover and I wanted the relationship with Ry to help him. I also wanted to know what the root of his guilt was and why he felt he was to blame. These two things kept me reading. It set things up to be emotional.

Sadly though, the writing in this book just wasn't for me. In general the plot was solid, but things jumped around too much for me. Scenes were rather short and there was a lot of telling. I found myself reading "we did this and then this and this" and some of those scenes I would have liked to read. I never felt connected with the characters or that there was a development in the relationship.

There was growth in the characters. I thought Will grew clearly and the twists with Ry were intriguing. It's a shame I never really fell in love with them. For me they didn't stand out enough to care. I found my attention drifting as there was just a disconnect.


Overall this was an okay read. It was a touching, realistic story that may be for you but it didn't work for me unfortunately.

2

Wednesday 22 April 2015

Review ~ Okay (Something More #2) by Danielle Pearl

Okay (Something More, #2)eARC received via the author in exchange for an honest review

Release Date: February 24th 2015

Publisher: Self-published

Description:
After the horrors she’s survived over the past year, Rory never expected to find the one thing she certainly wasn’t looking for – love. But after the painful realization that her past has left her a dangerous liability to the person she cares for the most, she finally understands that for her and Sam, love means letting go. 

Can two people hopelessly in love with one another ever revert back into just friends? Neither Rory nor Sam know for sure. But the one thing they do know – it’s the only choice they have.

As Rory recovers from a devastating assault, Sam will do anything to make sure it never happens again. But how far will he go to keep her safe? Their choices will change everything, and they will either bring them back together, or destroy them irrevocably. 

OKAY is the follow-up to NORMAL and Book 2 of the Something More series. It is not meant to be read as a standalone novel.

My Opinion

After the tortuous cliffhanger that Normal ended with, I couldn't wait to read Okay. I was excited to get my hands on a copy and see how Rory an Sam's story concluded.

In the end I enjoyed this book more than the first. Book one set up a lot of the dramas with Rory's past, the relationship, friendships, and viewpoints of the characters. This meant Okay could pick up straight where Normal left off and get under way. It draws you straight back into the action and held my attention well even with the length.

Okay once again had me engaged with the characters and their story. I loved Sam's loyalty to Rory, and I believed in their emotions. I thought there was a good amount of growth, especially with Rory and the author did a good job of tying up all the loose ends. Things ended satisfyingly this time and I enjoyed watching Rory become stronger. I rooted for her the whole way through the book and I couldn't help but feel for her. I'm glad they got they're HEA.

The only negative to this book is once again the length. Unlike Normal, the book wasn't filled with flashbacks so it wasn't as repetitive. I thought the plot was more solid and engaging. However, sometimes I felt the inner monologues went on a little too long and rambled. I did find myself skimming pages here and there in these sections without it effecting the clarity of the book. I feel that the thoughts could be condensed to make the pacing better, especially Sam as sometimes he over thought everything.


Anyway, despite that I preferred Okay. It held my attention better, things flowed well, and it was a good conclusion to Sam and Rory's story. The books are touching reads because of the subject nature and I think the author has dealt with it all well.

4

Tuesday 21 April 2015

Review ~ Chasing Olivia (Trace + Olivia #2) by Micalea Smeltzer

Chasing Olivia (Trace + Olivia, #2)
ebook purchased by myself.

Release Date: December 2013

Description:
How far would you go to reignite the spark you once had?

Two years later, Trace and Olivia are as much in love as they’ve always been. But the spark they once had for life is waning and Trace is determined that they find it again. His solution? A road trip. But he doesn’t tell Olivia the real reason they’re heading north. 

Olivia is happy to go on a road trip and have more adventures with Trace. Besides, she needs a distraction from the soap opera her life has become. With college over, this is the perfect opportunity to chase down the carefree girl she once was. 

But life isn’t a fairytale and you can only escape reality for so long. 

Love, laughs, and a hidden agenda.

That’s the name of the game when you’re Chasing Olivia.

(This book finishes Trace and Olivia's story. Book 1 is titled Finding Olivia)

My Opinion

This book has drawn mixed emotions from me. I bought it because I liked and wanted more from the characters. Even though Finding Olivia gives a HEA and could be read as a standalone I liked the playfulness of the book and needed something to make me smile.

Although Chasing Olivia did this, I didn't fall in love with it as much as book 1. I didn't feel there was as much of a story or growth. It was an easy read and had its moments, but I thought there wasn't much plot to it. Things were a little slow for me and things kind of got samey. There was also too much sex.


Overall though, it was an easy read and it was nice to revisit the character. The first book is definitely better, but I look forward to reading Trent's story.

3

Monday 20 April 2015

Review ~ Finding Olivia (Trace + Olivia #1) by Micalea Smeltzer

Finding Olivia (Trace + Olivia, #1)Paperback purchased by myself

Release Date: August 27th 2013

Description:
How far would you go to find yourself?

That’s the question that’s been haunting Olivia Owens for years.

All Olivia has ever wanted to do is live and make mistakes, but her preacher father has made that impossible. She believes that her years at college will be her ticket into the real world and her chance to be wild and spontaneous.

But she’s never been able to do it on her own.

At the start of her sophomore year, she only has four things crossed off her Live List, but that’s all about to change thanks to a chance encounter with Trace Wentworth. She’s about to learn that there’s more to this reformed bad boy than just his looks and panty dropping smile.

Trace can’t explain what it is that draws him to Olivia.

All he knows is that he wants to get to know the girl with the sad smile but sparkle in her eyes.

When she tells him about her list, he knows that this is his chance to get to know Olivia Owens. Trace is determined to show Olivia that she can do all the things she’s ever wanted to do. So, he begins to help her cross things off her list, even the more outlandish requests.

What happens along the way is more than what Olivia or Trace ever expected.

Love, laughs, and a list.

That’s the name of the game when you’re Finding Olivia.


*New Adult Contemporary Romance intended for readers 18+.*

My Opinion

It's taken me awhile to get to this book. The size of the paperback put me off. Every time I came to read it I was tired and holding it killed my arms. Anyway, finally I picked it up.

This was a sweet story about a girl learning to live. Olivia was an easy character to relate to and her emotions were believable. She had qualities that I could understand well and for that she was a likeable character. I enjoyed the fact that she'd already broken free and was moving on with her life.

Similarly Trace was a nice contrasting character. His flirty personality had me smiling and I liked how he not only teased Olivia but also brought her out of her shell and helped her to live. He was a genuine guy and whilst I thought his back story may have been slightly underdeveloped there was enough to feel for him.

This book was a long read. I do feel it could have been shortened and tightened somewhat with some of the description and over explanation of every speaking line. However it managed to keep me hooked.

The only other thing that got on my nerves slightly was the over use of exclamation marks. Some of the characters felt a bit young and the over exaggeration only made them seem younger.


Overall though this was an enjoyable read and I'll most probably read more.

4

Sunday 19 April 2015

Review ~ Ember (Eagle Elite #5) by Rachel Van Dyken

Ember (Eagle Elite, #5)ebook purchased by myself.

Release Date: February 19th 2015

Description:
I am a Killer. A Rapist. A Monster.
I know only pain and survival. 
That is until the Cappo's sister walked into my life. 
And changed everything.

She's a light who makes my darkness darker, her smile makes my heart turn to ice, and I can't escape the fear her seductive looks instill--knowing it's only a matter of time before I fail--again, and take her for myself.
This is the story of my redemption. 
But it's not pretty...I died, and now I'm alive, but not living, breathing but not surviving. I am Phoenix De Lange, son to a murdered mob boss, estranged brother, horrible friend, monster in the making, newest leader to one of the most powerful families in the Cosa Nostra.
And I will have my vengeance.
Or die trying.
I am Phoenix De Lange. 
Death is all I know. 
Until she offers me a piece of life--I can't resist taking.

My Opinion

I love this series. When I started it I was able to read the first four books straight after one another. However, I have been waiting for months to get my hands on Ember and it's been killing me. It also meant I had to do some catching up to refresh my memory of what had happened.

Just like with all of the other books in the series though, Ember had a great plot. There were a few twists--some I didn't see coming, some I did--and the story was well paced to keep me hooked. Once again the author creates a dark, gritty novel that doesn't shy away from the cruelty that comes with the mafia. I will admit that the school side of things to me is a bit far-fetched, but I really don't care. It works in a weird way and the characters grow as they leave.

Surprisingly, in Ember you do feel for Phoenix. The author did a good job with his redemption and how his romance developed. I felt his pain and I thought the balance between his guilt and desire for Bee was struck well. I also liked the way Bee pushed his buttons. She got under his skin and her witty comments made me smile.


Overall I can't wait for the next book in this series. I wouldn't say this series is for the easily offended or scared, but it's a good one. I have also learnt my lesson and stopped reading the sample of the next book at the end. No way am I getting hooked and then left not being able to read it for ages!

5

Saturday 18 April 2015

Review ~ Winter Kiss (Gloves Off #4.5) by L.P. Dover

Winter Kiss (Gloves Off, #4.5)ebook purchased by myself.

Release Date: February 1st 2015

Description:
What do you want in your stocking this Christmas? How about your favorite Gloves Off fighter, Ryley Jameson?

After moving away to their cabin, Ashleigh and Ryley have grown to love each other more and more every single day. Their lives will be forever changed as soon as their twins are born, but Ryley is determined to get what he wants this holiday season. He just hopes Ashleigh will give him this gift before it’s too late.

Perhaps Christmas bells aren’t the only sounds you hear this season. Maybe there’ll be some wedding bells and the pitter patter of little feet. It’s a holiday wish you don’t want to miss.

My Opinion

Okay, I caved and bought this. I've wanted it for ages but I have a thing about buying novellas. Anyway it was only 99p so I thought what the hell. I've always loved Ryley and I needed to know what happens in this.

Anyway, I'm glad I caved. This was an adorable novella that was cute, sweet, and filled in a few gaps between the books in the series. Ryley melted my heart once again--I need a Ryley!


If you follow my reviews and blog you'll know I'm a huge fan of this series and with the last book releasing soon I'm glad I could extend it a bit more. If you love the Gloves Off seriously buy the novella. It will put a smile on your face.


5

Friday 17 April 2015

Review ~ Very Twisted Things (Briarcrest Academy #3) by Ilsa Madden-Mills

Very Twisted Things (Briarcrest Academy, #3)ebook borrowed via Kindle Unlimited.

Release Date: March 1st 2015

Description:
STANDALONE NEW ADULT ROMANCE!

A sassy violinist who lives next door. 
An obsessed rock star who watches her through binoculars. 
And one night when she bares it all. 
Life will never be the same in Tinseltown.


Vital Rejects front guy Sebastian Tate never imagined his YouTube music video would go viral, sky-rocketing him to acting success in Hollywood.Okay, maybe he did. After all, he’s a cocky dude who knows he’s hot-as-hell, and it was only a matter of time before his stars aligned. 

But life in Tinseltown is never what it seems. 

After being cheated on by his ex-lover, his only rule to falling in love is simple: Keep Calm and Don’t Do It. So, spying on his mysterious new neighbor with binoculars seems innocent enough, but quickly escalates into an erotic game between two very unlikely people.

Twenty-year-old Violet St. Lyons is a world-renowned violinist who's lost her mojo on stage. She hides away in a Hollywood mansion, trying to find her way through her twisted past in order to make her future. 

He’s the life of the party with girls chasing him down for his autograph. She’s the introvert with a potty mouth who doesn’t even know who he is.

When they meet, stars collide, sparks fly, and clothes come off. Yet, giving his heart to a girl isn’t Sebastian’s plan; falling for a guy who craves attention isn’t Violet’s. 

Welcome to Briarcrest Academy—Hollywood style—where sometimes the best things in life are VERY TWISTED THINGS.

This book is a standalone even though it's part of a series. Everything you need to know is in this book. Genre: 18+ Hot New Adult Romance.

My Opinion

This was an all right read. It kept me entertained and was fast-paced, but I didn't connect with it as much as I thought I would.

The start hooked me and the book did hold my interest the whole way through. I liked Sebastian's flirty personality and I think I liked Violet. There was a slight spark between them, but at times their actions were childish, which is what's lowered my rating. Sebastian at times was a jerk and Violet reactions didn't give a solid enough personality for me. She wasn't strong or weak and the flipping between the two felt a bit unrealistic as there wasn't a consistent growth.

Moreover, I do think more could have been done with the characters' back stories. I felt the author only scratched the surface with the emotions and I wanted more.


Overall though this was a quick, easy read. It was mostly enjoyable an the writing was good but I'm not convinced to follow the series.


3

Thursday 16 April 2015

ARC Review ~ The Consequence of Loving Colton (Consequence #1) by Rachel Van Dyken

The Consequence of Loving Colton (Consequence, #1)eARC received via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review

Release Date: April 21st 2015

Description:
My name is Milo Caro and I have a confession to make.

I’ve been in love with Colton Mathews since I was five. He should have known that sharing a cookie with a sugar obsessed little monster would do the trick–it sealed his fate. So really, the fact that he’s sporting a black eye, a limp, almost got ran over by a car, and was nearly responsible for another person’s death? Right. HIs fault. Not mine. 

I made a pact with myself–this weekend would be different. I’d come home for my brothers wedding, smile, and Colton would naturally melt into my arms, we’d get married have five kids, live in a house by the river, and get a dog named scratch (clearly I’ve thought this through).

What really happened? I punched my brother in the face, Colton kissed me and apologized, I lied about having a boyfriend, oh and everyone wants to meet the mystery man. 

They say laughter always comes before insanity–ha, ha. All I wanted was my brother’s best friend…instead I’m sitting in prison. 

Let this be a lesson to you all…life rarely happens the way you want it to. 

Damn cookie.

My Opinion

Oh, where do I begin? Having only read this author's Eagle Elite series I wasn't sure what to expect with a contemporary romance. I knew I liked Rachel's style, but I couldn't predict the reaction I had to this book.

I don't think I've ever read a romance that's made me smile or actually laugh out loud so much. From the start I couldn't stop reading The Consequence of Loving Colton and it had me giggling to myself until 2am where sleep finally took over. I didn't think it would have so much humour, but it just kept making me laugh. It was a bit silly/slapstick at times, but it was light-hearted and exactly what I needed.

I loved the chaos and situation that arose. Max was brilliant, and grandma? Oh my god, I was crying at one point with laughter. The bonds between the characters were amazing and everything flowed excellently. The cast bounced off each other's personalities and it felt like a real family. Things were laid back, a little crazy, and all over the place yet it worked. It was the type of crazy you get at big family gatherings and I loved it.

Similarly, I liked what happened with the romance. The games played were humorous, cute, and entertaining. Max's big mouth had a permanent grin on my face as he got involved in every situation and he was just such an in your face character you can't help but love. The relationship between him and Milo was obvious and endearing character.

One of the other reasons I liked this book is that things took their time. There was no sex until the end and aside from some hot kissing, game, or challenges, the book focused more on getting the couple together. I thought the plot was brilliantly crafted and I could have easily read more.


Overall I'd highly recommend this. It's one of my favourite reads so far this year and I can guarantee it will make you smile. It's a light-hearted, humorous romance that deals with a crazy family and it will keep you gripped.

5

Wednesday 15 April 2015

Review ~ Reclaimed By Her Master by April Vine

Reclaimed By Her MastereARC received via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review

Release Date: April 28th 2015

Publisher: Lyrical Press

Description:
He’ll catch her in the act—and never let her go.

No one breaches the defenses of billionaire Dom Stephen Black—until Aria Swift does just that, stealing a priceless painting from his collection—along with his heart. But two can play that game, and soon a treasured necklace that belonged to Aria’s late mother ends up in Stephen’s skilled, waiting hands—along with a dare to retrieve it…

Eight years later, Aria is ready to put closure on her infamous past by meeting Stephen’s challenge. And suddenly, she’s caught in his trap…

There’s only one way to master a woman like Aria—and only one place to do it. Stephen’s luxuriously decadent Gold Room is where he’ll mete out her punishment, stroke by excruciatingly ecstatic stroke. Where Aria will submit to his every desire—and find in his touch, in his control, a frenzied yearning, and the ultimate pleasure of surrender…

My Opinion

Reclaimed By Her Master was a quick, hot read. It was a lot more intense than other books I've read in this genre and Stephen's control was more exaggerated than what I'm used to.

This book is a novella so it's short and only takes place over one night. Because of that it leaves little room for character development, but I could feel the spark and connection between the Aria and Stephen. I was intrigued by the start and I liked the resistance between them.

I will admit that I didn't always find the writing clear to follow. A few times I had to flick back because things weren't making sense and weren't easy to understand or imagine. This was mostly in the latter parts of the book.

Overall though, it was a hot read. It kept my interest and if you're interested in this type of thing it may interest you.


4

Monday 13 April 2015

ARC Review ~ Kyle's Return (Gloves Off #5) by L.P. Dover

Kyle's Return (Gloves Off, #5)eARC received via the author in exchange for an honest review

Release Date: TODAY! April 13th 2015

Description:
I promised myself I’d stay away from dangerous men, but I couldn’t live up to that when Kyle Andrews came back to town. He’s a manipulator, a guy who’ll do whatever it takes to get what he wants, sabotaging anyone who gets in the way. After a fatal fight left him wounded, his UFC career came to a close. He has nothing, but he’s determined to get it all back.

My name is Megan. I’ve known violence, pain, and what it feels like to be scared to live another day. All of that changed the moment I refused to be a victim. Now that my psychotic ex, Alex, can’t find me, I’ve been given a second chance. I owe my life to my friends. The same goes for Kyle. Without him, I wouldn’t be able to feel.

Everyone hates him. But for the life of me I don’t. There’s something about him I can’t ignore. Being with Kyle makes me want it all. However, in loving a hated man, I didn’t know it’d bring the life I fled from back to haunt me. Everywhere I go danger lurks and bad things happen. Kyle believes it’s because of him, but I’m starting to think otherwise. I think Alex has found me, and if so, this time he’s not going to let me go.

My Opinion

I can't believe this series is over. I first got into L.P's books when I picked up Meant For Me on NetGalley. Since then I was hooked and I've loved her fighters the most. Also, since reading her work I've never found an MMA romance that compares and I'm sad it's come to an end.

I knew Kyle would get his redemption in this book, but what surprised me is that the author somehow made me forgive him too. He's been the constant bad guy in the series who I loved to hate, yet in this book I slowly grew to love him. He shows he's changed and I liked his sweeter side around Megan as well as his fierce protectiveness.

I was surprised that the book starts with Kyle being able to walk again. I assumed his recovery would have been written and used to further his change. Whilst that's what happened, it's not something you get to see. I would have liked a few chapters or even flashbacks where I could have seen his thoughts in the wheelchair, but doing it this way did mean the author skipped a slow recovery that probably would have left little to work with.

Anyway, Megan was also a great character. She was feisty but also compassionate. The fact she gave Kyle a chance when no one else would drew me to her and made her loveable. She helped me see beyond Kyle's past and drew a new side out of him to help him grow even further. Similarly, her own past still haunts her and for that reason she's an easy character to feel for.

It doesn't really need to be said again, but L.P weaves and intriguing story that had me unable to stop reading again. The action, romance, and character development are brilliant making this one of my favourite series.


Overall this was a great conclusion. I do hope there will be a few more novellas or the characters link in other novels, but I can't wait to see what this author releases next. I love her Second Chance series just as much and I'd highly recommend both series.


5

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