Beach Reads In August Giveaway Hop

A relaxing beach- reading in the sun with the waves crashing down.  I fell in love with this book.  It was a surprise read, one that I one-clicked because it sounded interesting.  Never heard of the author before, hopefully it will be good.  Holy smokes was it good, y'all have got to read this book.  Oh...if I could have read it at the beach.  While there was no sand to tickle my toes, I still laughed while reading this.  Jessa's love of food matches my own love of food.  The Compass brothers, where can I find one.  

a Rafflecopter giveaway

There are a lot of other great giveaways on this hop!

Review: The Timber Wolves Trilogy

Author Tammy Blackwell

Format e-book

Print Length 721 pages

Publisher self-published

Published July 1, 2013

The entire bestselling trilogy in one volume! 

Scout Donovan is a girl who believes in rules, logic, and her lifelong love of Charlie Hagan. Alex Cole believes in destiny, magic, and Scout. When Alex introduces Scout to the world of Shifters, men who change into wolves or coyotes during the full moon and Seers, women who can see your most private thoughts and emotions with a mere touch, the knowledge changes everything and everyone Scout thought she knew.

Contains Destiny Binds, Time Mends, and Fate Succumbs.

My Opinion

Since this is three books in one, I will be taking each book and briefly reviewing them.

Destiny Binds

Scout and her step-brother are known as the twins, having been raised together since they were six months old. Scout knows something is up when a new guy and his brother move to town. Her brother and his cousin are acting well different, even ordering her away from him. She wasn’t really interested in him until that order. Curiosity killed the cat, or in this case the wolf. Why don’t they want her around him? 

I liked Scout’s logical way of finding out the truths in this one. I like how she is observant and doesn’t sit around thinking wow is me when things don’t go her way. I like how she is a take charge kinda gal. Alex is sweet- I just didn’t like him. He wasn’t the one who I wanted Scout with. I did like his belief in Scout, and in their destinies. The ending was a tear-jerker.

Time Mends

Does time really mend? Can it? Scout has to deal with the aftermath of what occurs in Density Binds. It is hard and there are changes in her because of it. People are after her and she doesn’t know why. Her family is confused and scared. The only constant in her life is her bestie , Talley. She doesn’t know who to trust or who to turn to. Her relationships with everyone she ever knew are now being called into question. 

This book really is about mending. It is hard to read at times- the emotions that Scout goes through are real, they are hers and they hurt. I love how she doesn’t sugarcoat her reactions. Instead she just has them. Those that lied to her have to make amends- those that hurt her have to hurt. Who now will protect her? Who now will guide her?

Fate Succumbs

Holy smokes- that it who saves her? How Scout does not explode upon finding out the truth is well amazing. I love that she stays strong. I love that he pushes her and doesn’t cuddle her. I love that they develop a close relationship that is not based on mourning. I like the ending and the new beginning.

I ended up reading the whole series, the novellas and the spin off-series in one week. I enjoyed the characters. I liked how they were there for one another even when they didn’t want to be, even when they wanted to wallow in self-pity. I liked how after everything they were still a family. More importantly I like how it shows the messy side of love- not wanting to be in love, being in love with someone who doesn’t want you, being with someone who you think hates you, and how relationships grow.

My Rating 4 stars out of 5

Favorite Quote 

“I said that you were my destiny, not that I’m yours.” From Destiny Binds

“It was a show, your own freaking Hunger Games orchestrated to prove your power while entertaining the privileged. Well, no more. I’m done. Pass the flippin’ poisoned berries.” From Time Mends

“What I’m tired of is you almost getting dead. I swear, I’m going to lock you in a padded room if you don’t stop al this stupid, life-threatening crap.” From Fate Succumb

Other People

Jase- Scout’s brother

Charlie- Jase’s cousin

Talley- Scout’s bestie

Liam- Alex’s brother

Swoon Thursday (29) Burned by Darkness

The fabulous girls over at YA Bound created this super HOT meme. Here's how it works.

From the book you’re currently reading, or one you just finished, tell us what made you SWOON. What got your heart pounding, your skin tingling, and your stomach fluttering. 

Shout it out on Twitter with the hashtag #YABound, post it here in the comments, or grab the adorable button above and share it on your blog! I want to know & so do the gals at YABound!

"Baine will kill him before he allows this creature to put you in danger."

There was something in the male's flat voice that warned them all he wasn't exaggerating.

Burned by Darkness Kindle Location 2122

"My heart beats for you," he murmured, his words a soft pledge. "There is no going back for either of us."

Burned by Darkness Kindle Location 2310

Baine is protective and possessive for a dragon. I love that he is willing to share his thoughts with her, that he trust her with his heart. I like that he declares his love first.

Waiting on Wednesday (29) Dark Heart of Magic

Hey y'all, thanks so much for stopping by my WoW!

Waiting On Wednesday is a weekly meme, hosted by Jill at Breaking the Spine which spotlights upcoming releases that we're eagerly anticipating.

Something Wicked This Way Comes...

As a thief, I stick to the shadows as much as possible. But when the head of the Sinclair Family picks me to compete in the Tournament of Blades, there's no escaping the spotlight—or the danger.

Even though he's my competition, Devon Sinclair thinks I have the best shot at winning what's supposed to be a friendly contest. But when the competitors start having mysterious "accidents," it looks like someone will do anything to win—no matter who they hurt.

As if I didn't have enough to worry about, mobster Victor Draconi is plotting against Devon and the rest of my friends, and someone's going around Cloudburst Falls murdering monsters. One thing's for sure. Sometimes, humans can be more monstrous than anything else...

Why am I waiting?

Did you not read the first book Cold Burn of Magic? If not here is a link to my review. If you did then you know why I am waiting. Will she and Devon be able to continue to be just friends? Will his life be in danger again? Will she win the competition?

Teaser Tuesday (28) Timber Wolves Trilogy

Teaser Tuesdays is a weekly bookish meme, hosted by MizB of Should Be Reading. Anyone can play along! Just do the following:

• Grab your current read

• Open to a random page

• Share two (2) “teaser” sentences from somewhere on that page

• BE CAREFUL NOT TO INCLUDE SPOILERS! (make sure that what you share doesn’t give too much away! You don’t want to ruin the book for others!)

• Share the title & author, too, so that other TT participants can add the book to their TBR Lists if they like your teasers!

Since I read the trilogy back to back I decided to teases them all in one post.

“I’ve been looking forward to this dance for a long time.” He leaned forward and rested his lips by my ear. “It was worth the wait. You look beautiful tonight, Scout.”

Destiny Binds Page 192

Charlie sure does have a way with words. Sometimes waiting is not a good thing, sometimes waiting ruins what could have been.

“This is real, and I didn’t leave you alone. I have always loved you, and I will love you until the end of time. Now, wake up and live.”

Time Mends Page 229

Thank you for telling Scout to live. Thank you for understanding what she needs before she does. Thank you for being you.

He sat down beside me on the bed, his hands sliding along my face and neck. “What I’m tired of is you almost getting dead. I swear, I’m going to lock you in a padded room if you don’t stop all this stupid, life-threatening crap.”

Liam~you are the absolute best! I love that you want to protect her, especially from herself.

Review: Bridges Burned

Author Chris Cannon

Format e-book
Print Length 312 pages
Publisher Entangled Teen
Published January 19, 2015

Don't just fight the system…burn it.

Since discovering she is a shape-shifting, fire-breathing dragon on her sixteenth birthday (surprise!), Bryn McKenna’s world has been thrown into chaos. Being a “crossbreed”—part Red dragon and part Blue—means Bryn will never fit in. Not with dragon society. Not with the archaic and controlling Directorate. And definitely not when she has striped hair and a not-so-popular affection for rule-breaking…

But sneaking around with her secret boyfriend, Zavien, gets a whole lot harder when he’s betrothed to someone else. Someone who isn't a mixed breed and totally forbidden. And for an added complication, it turns out Bryn’s former archnemesis Jaxon Westgate isn’t quite the evil asshat she thought. Now she’s caught between her desire to fit in and a need to set things on fire. Literally.

Because if Bryn can’t adapt to the status quo…well, then maybe it’s time for her to change it

My Opinion

Bryn’s life is about to get harder. Her boyfriend has a fiancé, which she doesn’t accept. The school is attacked which she doesn’t accept. Her parents are gone, which she doesn’t accept. Her enemy is now her friend, which she doesn’t accept. Bryn really is her own worse enemy sometimes.

Dragon society is vastly different from human society. For instance, dragons are paired so that the best genes produce off-springs. They have a herd mentality, if you will and it is truly about survival of their kind. Bryn decides instead of accepting this to fight it. Not everyone will be on her side though. Her enemy becomes her friend and some friends end up being enemies.

Bryn’s love life is a mess. Mainly because Zavien is being a jerk. I am really hoping that his attitude is to protect Bryn because I really don’t understand it. He was so sweet and kind in the first book that now he just- well I kinda wanted to punch him in the face. Which would not have been good, although he does deserve it.

Bryn is different and sometimes different is good. She brings with her change- change for herself and for the Directorate.

Bridges Burned is the perfect second book in a trilogy. It allows the story to move along at a great pace and there is a ton of character building. There are questions left to be answered and new ones created. But mostly there is a sense of urgency for the third book to already be released.

My Rating 4 out of 5 stars

Favorite Quote I stopped by to talk to my future wife about names for our offspring. Sadly, your name didn’t make the list.

Other People

Clint-Ivy’s love interest
Ivy- Bryn’s dragon friend, her only dragon friend
Jaxon- frenemy
Rhianna- Jaxon’s betroth
Nola- Zavien’s fiance’
Valmont- Bryn’s knight, yep an actual Knight

Review: Forsaken

Author S.J.Harper

Format e-book
Print Length 189 pages
Publisher All Romance eBooks
Published July 1, 2015

Join Agents Emma Monroe and Zack Armstrong.
She protected him. He loved her.
They can trust one another with their lives, but what about their hearts?

Special Agent Emma Monroe is a Fallen Siren seeking redemption. Thousands of years ago, she was banished from Mount Olympus by Zeus and cursed by Demeter for failing to prevent the kidnapping of Persephone by Hades. Now she’s working for the FBI, seeking salvation while searching for and finding the missing. Her partner, Zack Armstrong, is a werewolf with a grievance of his own.

The former Black Ops sniper who once carried out a string of questionable assignments is atoning for his past. Ironically, Zack’s just discovered an important piece of his past has been magically wiped from his memory—an affair with Emma. It doesn’t matter she used the spell to save his life, that’s something he’ll never know. With trust eroded and love overshadowed by betrayal the only thing holding them together is the job.

When the son of multi-billionaire Roger Maitlan is kidnapped and his babysitter murdered in cold blood, Emma and Zack travel to New York to work the case. They go undercover, infiltrating a playground of private dungeons where those who are rich and powerful can live out fantasies without consequence. What they find is a conspiracy born of a twisted mind and fueled by greed. The clock is ticking. Will Zack and Emma be able to find the missing boy and their way back to one another?

My Opinion

At the ending of the last book Zack and Emma were no more. Zack found out that Emma had taken his memories and he is well pissed. He has every right to be, he just has no clue it was to save his life. I think if he did his reactions would be a bit different. Zack puts in for a transfer and his boss denies it- then sends them to New York to find a kidnapper. Zach has a past with the father of the missing boy. This makes Roger trust him more than a victim would normally trust the FBI.

The tension between Zack and Emma in Forsaken is tight. They are good at putting their differences aside for the case but when those two are alone man, it’s hard. I understand Zack’s anger but he has to know deep down that there is more to it then what is on the surface. Emma had a reason for taking his memories, a good reason. He should know by now that she would not purposely hurt him without a cause. He should also be able to recognize that she herself is hurting.

Emma for her part knows she was wrong. She also knows that she was right. His life is more important than their love. It always will be- that is what makes her a great heroine. She puts the gains of others over her own. I like how Emma isn’t begging for forgiveness- she just accepts his anger as her due.

Zack and Emma have been through a lot. They both deserve more than what they are getting out of their partnership. Is redemption only one rescue away? That is the answer for another time. Forsaken moves the series along in a nice way. A way for the reader to get resolution from the events that occur in the previous novel.

My Rating 3 out of 5 stars

Favorite Quote "Just don’t ever, ever, trust me with your heart."

Other People

Roger- son is kidnapped
Regina Torres- special agent in charge, annoyed that more agents were brought in
Eve- holds a grudge against Roger

Book Trailer Saturday (18) The Veil

Some people believe you can fall in love at first sight. When it comes to books I believe those people. Book trailers are an excellent way to fall in love at first sight. I hope to feature a book trailer here every Saturday to help you fall in love at first sight...

Seven years ago, the Veil that separates humanity from what lies beyond was torn apart, and New Orleans was engulfed in a supernatural war. Now, those with paranormal powers have been confined in a walled community that humans call the District. Those who live there call it Devil's Isle.

Claire Connolly is a good girl with a dangerous secret: she’s a Sensitive, a human endowed with magic that seeped through the Veil. Claire knows that revealing her skills would mean being confined to Devil’s Isle. Unfortunately, hiding her power has left her untrained and unfocused.

Liam Quinn knows from experience that magic makes monsters of the weak, and he has no time for a Sensitive with no control of her own strength. But when he sees Claire using her powers to save a human under attack—in full view of the French Quarter—Liam decides to bring her to Devil’s Isle and the teacher she needs, even though getting her out of his way isn’t the same as keeping her out of his head.

But when the Veil threatens to shatter completely, Claire and Liam must work together to stop it, or else New Orleans will burn…

Review: The Stars Never Rise

Author Rachel Vincent
Format e-book

Print Length 368 pages
Publisher Delacorte Press
Published June 9, 2015

Sixteen-year-old Nina Kane should be worrying about her immortal soul, but she's too busy trying to actually survive. Her town's population has been decimated by soul-consuming demons, and souls are in short supply. Watching over her younger sister, Mellie, and scraping together food and money are all that matters. The two of them are a family. They gave up on their deadbeat mom a long time ago.

When Nina discovers that Mellie is keeping a secret that threatens their very existence, she'll do anything to protect her. Because in New Temperance, sins are prosecuted as crimes by the brutal Church and its army of black-robed exorcists. And Mellie's sin has put her in serious trouble.

To keep them both alive, Nina will need to trust Finn, a fugitive with deep green eyes who has already saved her life once and who might just be an exorcist. But what kind of exorcist wears a hoodie?

Wanted by the Church and hunted by dark forces, Nina knows she can't survive on her own. She needs Finn and his group of rogue friends just as much as they need her.

My Opinion

Rachel Vincent is writing a new book- give me, give me, give me. Jumping up and down then fan-girling a little bit. After two long years and one heck of a cover it is finally here. I sit down and open it. Ahh… to be immersed in one of her worlds again. Oh to be surrounded by demons again…. Wait huh?

Yepper, that pretty much sums up my reaction to this one y’all. I have made no idea what happened. Seriously, I went into this book ubber excited- it was written by one of my go to authors. I came out of the book thinking huh???

Nina is a strong young lady- she has to be, her world is a horrible place to live in. In order for a baby to be born, someone else must die. Once you graduate you have few options, the most likely if you are poor is going into the church. Nina is poor being raised by her mother who is an addict and having to take care her younger sister. Her younger sister is a tad bit on the selfish side but she grows up really fast, she has to. Nina will do anything to protect her sister and ultimately does. Her actions put her on the run where she finds a guy name Finn. I can’t really talk about Finn except what a twist! Well played!

Let’s talk about the romance aspect of this novel- I didn’t buy it. Sorry, but no. There was insta-lust going on and then insta-reluctance. Which was actually pretty smart on Nina’s part, I mean what else is a gal to do in this situation.

This is the first book in a series, so there is a lot of world building going on. Which is fabulous because the world she creates is interesting. It does take away from the story a little. I feel so bad giving this one three stars. I liked it just didn’t puffy heart it. Of course I plan on reading the sequel just not going to make it a priority like I did this book.

My Rating 3 stars out of 5

Favorite Quote “Everything worth doing is a sin.”

Other People

Anabelle- Nina’s bestie or the closest thing she has to one
Reece- nice guy in Finn’s group
Grayson- Reece’s gal
Devi- mean gal of the bunch
Maddock- Devi’s boytoy and Finn’s bestie

Swoon Thursday (28) Magic Breaks

The fabulous girls over at YA Bound created this super HOT meme. Here's how it works.

From the book you’re currently reading, or one you just finished, tell us what made you SWOON. What got your heart pounding, your skin tingling, and your stomach fluttering. 

Shout it out on Twitter with the hashtag #YABound, post it here in the comments, or grab the adorable button above and share it on your blog! I want to know & so do the gals at YABound!

This isn't the first fight or the last. People will sacrifice themselves for us again, and we'll do the

same. I don't know how bad the future will be, but I promise you, we'll deal with it. You and I. Together.

Magic Breaks Kindle Location 4438

Oh Curran you big furry cat! You do have a way with words. I love how you love Kate.

Waiting on Wednesday (28) The Veil

Hey y'all, thanks so much for stopping by my WoW!

Waiting On Wednesday is a weekly meme, hosted by Jill at Breaking the Spine which spotlights upcoming releases that we're eagerly anticipating.

Seven years ago, the Veil that separates humanity from what lies beyond was torn apart, and New Orleans was engulfed in a supernatural war. Now, those with paranormal powers have been confined in a walled community that humans call the District. Those who live there call it Devil's Isle.

Claire Connolly is a good girl with a dangerous secret: she’s a Sensitive, a human endowed with magic that seeped through the Veil. Claire knows that revealing her skills would mean being confined to Devil’s Isle. Unfortunately, hiding her power has left her untrained and unfocused.

Liam Quinn knows from experience that magic makes monsters of the weak, and he has no time for a Sensitive with no control of her own strength. But when he sees Claire using her powers to save a human under attack—in full view of the French Quarter—Liam decides to bring her to Devil’s Isle and the teacher she needs, even though getting her out of his way isn’t the same as keeping her out of his head.

But when the Veil threatens to shatter completely, Claire and Liam must work together to stop it, or else New Orleans will burn…

Why am I waiting?

Oh my....can they save New Orleans? Can Claire be trained? A new series, one that hopefully will entertain as much as her previous ones.

Teaser Tuesday (28) The Stars Never Rise

Teaser Tuesdays is a weekly bookish meme, hosted by MizB of Should Be Reading. Anyone can play along! Just do the following:

• Grab your current read

• Open to a random page

• Share two (2) “teaser” sentences from somewhere on that page

• BE CAREFUL NOT TO INCLUDE SPOILERS! (make sure that what you share doesn’t give too much away! You don’t want to ruin the book for others!)

• Share the title & author, too, so that other TT participants can add the book to their TBR Lists if they like your teasers!

His mouth met mine, and I almost chocked on surprise. Then his hand slid behind my neck and his head tilted, and I had a second to decide whether to bite his tongue off or kiss him back.

The Stars Never Rise Kindle Location 1858

Hmm... the choose is to kiss the guy or bit his tongue off. I can't imagine having that choice- can you?

Review: Scorched

Author Jennifer L. Armentrout

Format e-book
Print Length 238 pages
Publisher Spencer Hill Press
Published June 16, 2015

Sometimes life leaves a mark…

Most days, Andrea doesn’t know whether she wants to kiss Tanner or punch him in the gut. He is seriously hot, with legit bedroom eyes and that firefighter body of his, but he’s a major player, and they can’t get along for more than a handful of minutes. Until now.

Tanner knows he and Andrea have had an epic love/hate relationship for as long as he can remember, but he wants more love than hate from her. He wants her. Now. Tomorrow. But the more he gets to know her, the more it becomes obvious that Andrea has a problem. She’s teetering on the edge and every time he tries to catch her, she slips through his fingers.

Andrea’s life is spiraling out of control, and it doesn’t matter that Tanner wants to save her, because when everything falls apart and she’s speeding toward rock bottom, only she can save herself.

Sometimes life makes you work for that happily ever after…

My Opinion

Andrea is Sydney’s old roommate and gal bestie. Tanner is Kyler’s best friends. The four of them hang out a lot. Tanner and Andrea do not get along- no one really knows why though. One night while out Andrea has a little too much to drink, Tanner steps up and takes care of her. This makes him decide that he wants to get to know her better. There has always been an unspoken attraction to her but know he wants to find out the real Andrea, maybe even stop fighting with her.

Andrea is such a strong personality. She has a problem, one she wants to hide. Hiding it is something she is every good at. Sometimes hiding makes the problem worse- this is one of those times. Bad things happen and she has to face the consequences of her actions. Andrea does whole heartedly and boy is the result amazing.

Tanner is an amazing guy. He tells her that she has a problem, she of course denies it. He is there to help, if she wants it. He wants so badly for things to work out between them. He gives her the support and space that she needs.

Scorched is a book that tackles hard issues. Real issues- it is the type of book that I normally avoid. JLA wrote it though so it was on auto-click for me. Scorched made me cry. I am not talking about a pretty cry either instead that ugly red face snotty cry. In the end though, I feel like a better person for having read it. That is something that is hard for a writer to do. You got to hand it to her JLA has some mad writing skills.

My Rating 5 stars out of 5

Favorite Quote “you’re a redhead. That alone puts you into the sexy-as-hell category.”

Other People

Sydney- Bestie and ex-roomate
Kyler- Tanner’s bestie and Sydney’s boyfriend

Review: The Fairyland Murders

Author J.A. Kazimer
Format e-ARC
Print Length 254 pages
Publisher Kensington
Published Dec. 1, 2014

Blue Reynolds knows the darker side of New Never City—the side that’s hopped-up on fairy dust and doesn’t care if your house gets blown down. Rent’s due and his PI business is all but make
believe. But even Blue shudders at having to chase after Isabella Davis, a freckle-nosed redhead five feet tall on her tip-toes…if you don’t count the pretty pink wings.

Izzy is tough, and sneaky, and not too thrilled with the idea of being the new tooth fairy. The last six have been most gruesomely extracted. But Blue has a feeling that whoever is killing the tooth fairies is worse than your standard big bad psycho. The fairy council is hiding something. The Shadows are moving out into the light. And Blue is saddled with a shocking power that could take out half of New Never City…

My Opinion

Jack the Tooth Ripper has killed the last seven tooth fairies. Twin fairies who are the uncle to the next tooth fairy hires Blue to keep her safe. First of course he has to find her- Izzy doesn’t want to be the tooth fairy. Once he does, he is in trouble. He promises to keep her safe- doesn’t he know the way stories go? Keeping her safe may just kill him.

Blue Reynolds is an interesting fellow- his hair is bright blue and well he is electrifying. Literally when his emotions run high so does the voltage. He doesn’t let this get him down though instead he uses it to his advantage. He does have moments when his curse sucks. He is a man of honor- trying over and over again to keep his promises. I think that is what I liked most about him. He jumps head first into a situation if it means keeping his word. Izzy is a smart tough gal who can look after herself. She is hiding something from Blue.

The Fairyland Murders is a clever murder mystery set in the fairytale realm. I did not guess who the Tooth Ripper was at all, so that aspect of the story was intriguing. However, there was little to know relationship building, definitely no romance. While Blue and Izzy has some moments of flirtatious bickering that was about it. If you like mystery novels then you may like this one just keep in mind that it is set in the realm of fairytale land.

My Rating 3 out of 5 stars

Favorite Quote Oh, the lifestyles of the poor and desperate.

Other People

Clayton- fairy uncle to Izzy
Peyton- fairy uncle to Izzy
Penelopee- fairy tale princess

Book Trailer Saturday (17) The Rising

Some people believe you can fall in love at first sight. When it comes to books I believe those people. Book trailers are an excellent way to fall in love at first sight. I hope to feature a book trailer here every Saturday to help you fall in love at first sight...





Things are getting desperate for Maya and her friends. Hunted by the powerful St. Clouds and now a rival Cabal as well, they're quickly running out of places to hide. And with the whole world thinking
they died in a helicopter crash, it's not like they can just go to the authorities for help.

All they have is the name and number of someone who might be able to give them a few answers. Answers to why they're so valuable, and why their supernatural powers are getting more and more out of control.

But Maya is unprepared for the truths that await her. And now, like it or not, she'll have to face down some demons from her past if she ever hopes to move on with her life. Because Maya can't keep running forever.

Old secrets are revealed and unexpected characters make a surprising return in this stunning conclusion to Kelley Armstrong's New York Timesbestselling Darkness Rising trilogy.

Review: Hollywood Witch Hunter

Author Valerie Tejeda

Format e-ARC
Print Length ?
Publisher Bloomsbury Spark
Published July 20, 2015

From the moment she first learned the truth about witches…she knew she was born to fight them.

Now, at sixteen, Iris is the lone girl on the Witch Hunters Special Ops Team.

But when Iris meets a boy named Arlo, he might just be the key to preventing an evil uprising in Southern California.

Together they're ready to protect the human race at all costs. Because that's what witch hunters do.

Welcome to Hollywood

My Opinion

Witches are girls, hunters are boys. This is the way things have been since well the beginning until that is now. Iris was born with the Hunter gene- the first girl ever. This means she is held to a higher standard, the professors are harder on her, her base leader (her dad) is really hard on her. She trains, she fights she is not allowed to make mistakes. Then a girl-next-door celebrity dies under her protection, on her watch- murdered by a witch.

Arlo is a new recruit which is in itself unusual as he was not already on the WHO radar. They typically know who the hunters are from the day they are born. Arlo doesn’t want to be a hunter, he wants to be musician. What he doesn’t know is that he doesn’t have a choice. Iris has to show him the ropes and train him.

The death of the celebrity though, it is bothering her. Yeah, people die, witches kill them all the time but she was watching. How could Belinda of all witches kill her? Why would Belinda who is never sloppy be sloppy now? Something is not adding up. When Iris starts asking questions though she may not like the answers.

Iris is a strong female- a protector. She needs the answers to the questions that are bothering her. A weaker person would have walked away. She is not that type of person. She is tenacious in her search for the truth- this gets her in trouble. Arlo seems naïve, yet observant of the things that are going around WHO headquarters. More so than the veteran students.

Belinda is supposed to be the big baddie in this story. I just can’t help but love her. She is always coming to Iris’ rescue even though Iris’ is hunting her. She knows something is not right just what it is though is anyone’s guess. Yeah, she messes up a few times but hey she’s only human…and a witch.

Hollywood Witch Hunter started off slow for me, it wasn’t until about chapter seven that things start to pick up. Once it does though it is an action-paced adrenaline rush to the end. The ending is a shocker and I cannot wait to see what happens in the next book.

My Rating 4 out of 5 stars

Favorite Quote “Oh put your knife away, Buffy. I’m not here to fight.”

Other People

Knox- Iris’ big brother and team leader
Dex- Iris’ cousin
Silos- mystery guy, knows a lot but who’s side is he on
Deacon- jerk hunter (mean gal role)
Belinda- head of the Hollywood witches

Swoon Thursday (27) The Fairyland Murders

The fabulous girls over at YA Bound created this super HOT meme. Here's how it works.

From the book you’re currently reading, or one you just finished, tell us what made you SWOON. What got your heart pounding, your skin tingling, and your stomach fluttering. 

Shout it out on Twitter with the hashtag #YABound, post it here in the comments, or grab the adorable button above and share it on your blog! I want to know & so do the gals at YABound!

She waved me off. "No one is going to hurt me."

"Oh yeah?" I rubbed the hairs on my chin. "What makes you so confident?"

"You."

"What?"

She let out a long drawn-out sigh. "Because of you, Blue. You promised you would never let any harm come to me."

The Fairyland Murders Kindle Location 798

You got to hand it to Izzy she has a way with words. Talk about boosting a guys ego. That plus the fact that Blue cares enough to worry about her. Yeah this was a swoony moment.

Waiting on Wednesday (27) Sweet Temptation

Hey y'all, thanks so much for stopping by my WoW!

Waiting On Wednesday is a weekly meme, hosted by Jill at Breaking the Spine which spotlights upcoming releases that we're eagerly anticipating.

Bad boy Kaidan Rowe has never wanted for anything—money, popularity, musical talent…hot girls—but seducing them is part of his duty as a Nephilim, slave to the demon Dukes. As the son of the Duke of Lust, Kaidan has learned his father’s ways, becoming a master of passion, a manipulator of chemistry. Disobeying his father would mean certain death. Thankfully for Kaidan, he’s good at his job. And he enjoys it. 

Until he meets Anna Whitt—sweet, smart, feisty, and inexplicably good—the one girl seemingly immune to his charms. The daughter of a guardian angel and a fallen one, she has a certain power over him, one that makes him wish for more than he could ever deserve. 

Determined to save all the Neph from their dark lives as the influencers of sin, Anna joins forces with Kaidan to overcome the demons’ oppressive ways. In the light of her affections, Kaidan must undergo his toughest test of all, a battle of the heart.

Sensual and swoon worthy, this companion volume to the acclaimed Sweet Evil series from New York Times bestselling author Wendy Higgins, told from the perspective of the irresistibly sexy and mysterious Kaidan Rowe, gives readers revealing insights into his struggle, his intense connection to Anna, and most of all, the true emotions that drive him.

Author Note:

Sweet Temptation will encompass the entire trilogy in a condensed version, beginning with Kai's life before he met Anna, and taking readers through the epilogue of Sweet Reckoning. Sweet Temptation is a companion novel, not meant to be a stand alone story. It will definitely be a richer experience for those who have read the original trilogy.

Why am I waiting?

Umm Kaidan’s point of view? Seriously, can anyone who read the series not be waiting for this book? Hopefully, we can get some insight into some of the stupid stuff he did.

Teaser Tuesday (27) Hollywood Witch Hunter

Teaser Tuesdays is a weekly bookish meme, hosted by MizB of Should Be Reading. Anyone can play along! Just do the following:

• Grab your current read

• Open to a random page

• Share two (2) “teaser” sentences from somewhere on that page

• BE CAREFUL NOT TO INCLUDE SPOILERS! (make sure that what you share doesn’t give too much away! You don’t want to ruin the book for others!)

• Share the title & author, too, so that other TT participants can add the book to their TBR Lists if they like your teasers!

At that moment a fire glowed inside Iris, thawing her from the inside out and fueling a growing anger she'd been feeling since the first time her father lied to her.

"And, Iris. Tell your dad if he's not going to play by the rules, neither am I."

Hollywood Witch Hunter Kindle Location 80

What is he lying about? Why is she angry? What rules is she talking about and who is she?

Book Trailer Reveal: Every Last Breath

 

We are very excited to bring you the trailer for the Epic Finale in Jennifer L. Armentrout's Dark Elements Series, EVERY LAST BREATH! Published by HarlequinTeen, EVERY LAST BREATH is a young adult paranormal filled with romance and danger being released on July 28^th, 2015.

Be sure to pre-order your copy today and enter to win some AMAZING Dark Elements prizes!

 

Amazon ** Barnes and Noble ** iBooks ** IndieBound ** Kobo ** BAM

  EVERY LAST BREATH Synopsis: Some loves will last ‘til your dying breath Every choice has consequences—but seventeen-year-old Layla faces tougher choices than most. Light or darkness. Wickedly sexy demon prince Roth, or Zayne, the gorgeous, protective Warden she never thought could be hers. Hardest of all, Layla has to decide which side of herself to trust. Layla has a new problem, too. A Lilin—the deadliest of demons—has been unleashed, wreaking havoc on those around her…including her best friend. To keep Sam from a fate much, much worse than death, Layla must strike a deal with the enemy while saving her city—and her race—from destruction. Torn between two worlds and two different boys, Layla has no certainties, least of all survival, especially when an old bargain comes back to haunt them all. But sometimes, when secrets are everywhere and the truth seems unknowable, you have to listen to your heart, pick a side—and then fight like hell…

  “Armentrout is a major talent…I just can’t stop reading!” --New York Times bestselling author Gena Showalter 

  “Armentrout works her magic with swoon-worthy guys and a twist you never see coming.” --#1 New York Times bestselling author Abbi Glines on White Hot Kiss  

And here's the amazing trailer for EVERY LAST BREATH...

 

https://www.youtube.com/embed/QLM2WuvsX4g

 

And don't forget to preorder your copy of EVERY LAST BREATH today and enter to win!

 

Enter now to win an INCREDIBLE Dark Elements prize pack including a VISA GIFT CARD! Register your pre-order of Jennifer L. Armentrout's EVERY LAST BREATH now to enter PLUS help unlock MORE prizes! ► http://bit.ly/1Fy7ekS

EVERY LAST BREATH Preorder Links

Amazon ** Barnes and Noble ** iBooks ** IndieBound ** Kobo ** BAM

 

Don’t miss the first titles in the Dark Elements Series!

 

 

BITTER SWEET LOVE

Amazon ** Barnes and Noble ** iBooks ** BAM ** Kobo

WHITE HOT KISS

Amazon ** Barnes and Noble ** BAM ** iBooks ** IndieBound ** Kobo

STONE COLD TOUCH

Amazon** Barnes and Noble ** iBooks ** IndieBound ** Kobo** BAM

    About Jennifer L. Armentrout: # 1 New York Times and # 1 International Bestselling author Jennifer lives in Martinsburg, West Virginia. All the rumors you’ve heard about her state aren’t true. When she’s not hard at work writing, she spends her time reading, watching really bad zombie movies, pretending to write, and hanging out with her husband and her Jack Russell Loki. Her dreams of becoming an author started in algebra class, where she spent most of her time writing short stories….which explains her dismal grades in math. Jennifer writes young adult paranormal, science fiction, fantasy, and contemporary romance. She is published with Spencer Hill Press, Entangled Teen and Brazen, Disney/Hyperion and Harlequin Teen. Her book Obsidian has been optioned for a major motion picture and her Covenant Series has been optioned for TV. Her young adult romantic suspense novel DON’T LOOK BACK was a 2014 nominated Best in Young Adult Fiction by YALSA. She also writes Adult and New Adult contemporary and paranormal romance under the name J. Lynn. She is published by Entangled Brazen and HarperCollins.  

Website ** Facebook ** Twitter ** Novel Goodreads ** Author Goodreads

   

Review: The Fill In Boyfriend

Author Kasie West
Format e-book

Print Length 352 pages
Publisher HarperTeen
Published May 5, 1015

When Gia Montgomery's boyfriend, Bradley, dumps her in the parking lot of her high school prom, she has to think fast. After all, she'd been telling her friends about him for months now. This was supposed to be the night she proved he existed. So when she sees a cute guy waiting to pick up his sister, she enlists his help. The task is simple: be her fill-in boyfriend— two hours, zero commitment, a few white lies. After that, she can win back the real Bradley.

The problem is that days after prom, it's not the real Bradley she's thinking about, but the stand-in. The one whose name she doesn't even know. But tracking him down doesn't mean they're done faking a relationship. Gia owes him a favor and his sister intends to see that he collects: his ex-girlfriend's graduation party — three hours, zero commitment, a few white lies.

Just when Gia begins to wonder if she could turn her fake boyfriend into a real one, Bradley comes waltzing back into her life, exposing her lie, and threatening to destroy her friendships and her new-found relationship.

My Opinion

Gia is a senior in high school about to go to prom when her college age boyfriend dumps her in the parking lot of all places. Right before they make their grand entrance. Well, she can’t go to prom without a date- so she finds some guy to pretend to be her boyfriend. One lie, leads to another and then another until she is unsure of what is a lie and what is the truth. At least when it comes to matters of the heart that is.

Gia is a very relatable main character. Everyone wants to be liked and she does try hard to be likable to her friends. But the reality is that by trying hard to be likeable, she has been hiding her true self for years. It’s a learned behavior for her- one she picked up from her parents- one she didn’t even recognize. What I adore about her is she owns up to her mistakes- accepts them and tries to makes amends.

Hayden is a great fill-in boyfriend. He would make a great real boyfriend except he comes with baggage. If Gia decides it is him that she wants she will have to understand where he is coming from. He has been burned in the past and it hurts.

Neither one of these people have great taste in friends. Some are okay but others are well- you have to read the book. Gia’s family is messed up. Her parents are “yes” parents. My children can do no wrong parents. To me this does the children a disservice- in our society there are a lot of parents like this though.

The Fill-In Boyfriend is a book to get excited about. With relatable characters- real life problems and real life consequences. A great read that may just cause you to pause and reflect on your life.

My Rating 5 out of 5 stars

Favorite Quote You’re just clueless. She’s intentionally mean.

Other People

Jules- Frienemy
Claire- Gia’s bestie
Bec- Hayden’s sister
Bradley- Gia’s boyfriend
Spencer- Hayden’s bestie

Review: The Way of the Warrior

Author multiple
Format e-ARC

Print Length 448 pages
Publisher Sourcebooks Casablanca
Published May 5, 2015

EIGHT PASSIONATE LOVE STORIES ABOUT AMAZING MILITARY HEROES BY BESTSELLING AUTHORS:
Suzanne Brockmann, Julie Ann Walker, Catherine Mann, Tina Wainscott, Anne Elizabeth, M.L. Buchman, Kate SeRine, Lea Griffith

To honor and empower those who've served, all author and publisher proceeds go to the Wounded Warrior Project.

The Wounded Warrior Project was founded in 2002 and provides a wide range of programs and services to veterans and service members who have survived physical or mental injury during their brave service to our nation. Get involved or register for programs and benefits for yourself and your family online at www.woundedwarriorproject.org.

"It is a proud privilege to be a soldier." —George S. Patton Jr.
"We sleep safely at night because rough men stand ready to visit violence on those who would harm us." —Winston Churchill

My Opinion

This book includes eight short stories. I thought for the review I will give a few words on each of the stories.

Hot As Hell by Julie Ann Walker

Harper is a secretary to the US Ambassador in Pakistan. For months they were expecting an attack and none came- to the Seal team that was originally protecting them gets called away on another mission. While they are gone the embassy gets attacked. Will Michael and his team get to her in time?

I loved Harper- she is a no nonsense kinda gal in the middle of a huge crisis. Michael is a sweetheart who will stop at nothing to save her. That is main objective at the moment, followed closely by the need to define their relationship. He is a man who knows what he wants and he is not afraid to grab for it.

This story gets 5 out of 5 stars. I can definitely say I will be looking for more stories in this series.

In Plain Sight by Catherine Mann

Stacy is being stalked by her ex-hubby Jared. A stalker who is seriously escalating into dangerous territory. The only problem is that no one believes her except that is for the guy who answered her 911 phone call-Gavin. Just so happens Gavin is her first love. The boy who walked away from their love to join the military. Gavin was medically discharged and is coming to terms with his new disability. Being disabled is not going to stop him from stopping Jared though.

Stacy and Gavin just didn’t do it for me. I felt that their chemistry wasn’t there. Also their reconnect happens instantly which after ten years wouldn’t fly in my world.

This story gets 3 out of 5 stars.

Torn by Kate SeRine

Sadie and Joe grew up together- the best of friends. Both wanting more but not acting on it. Joe joins the military and Sadie stays behind. Joe gets hurts and returns to their home town, where Sadie is a teacher. Someone is stalking Sadie, Joe doesn’t know but he is about to find out.

I puffy heart love Sadie. She is strong, she is independent and most of all she is understanding. She knows her bestie and is there for him always. Joe knows he loves Sadie but he doesn’t feel like he deserves her, and to be honest maybe he didn’t. At least not until she was in danger- that is when he man’s up and is determine to catch the gal. Seriously, moments with Joe can be a swoonfeast.

This story gets 5 out of 5 stars. I am waiting impatiently for the next Kate SeRine book to release- I mean it has seriously been too long!

War Games by Lea Griffin

Rook is the only living member of a Delta Force Team, he is also in Ft. Leavenworth. Vivi is just the gal to get him out of there- after all she did promise her brother on his death bed. All she has to do is stage a prison break, get Rook and help him clear his name. Plus, not get caught. No biggie- especially for Vivi she can hack into any system. Clearing his name though- that might be a bit hard.

Vivi is another gal that totally floated my boat. Loyalty to her brother outweighs her fears and she will do what is asked of her. Her blind trust in the character of Rook is also pretty amazing, especially since he doesn’t trust himself. Rook knows he was framed but where does Vivi fit in? Can he trust her?

This story gets 5 out of 5 stars. I want to read more by this author.

Beauty and the Marine by Tina Wainscott

Kristy is a model being stalked- so much so she has been in hiding for two years. Her security team has decided to smoke the stalker out. They do this with a fake reality tv show on a ranch ran by a guy named Griff. Griff is a military man in hiding because of survivor guilt and scars- visible scars.

I did not connect with the characters in this one.

This story gets 2 out of 5 stars.

NSDQ 325 by M.I. Buchman

US Army Captain Lois Lang is a pilot or was until she lost a leg putting the chopper down. When she realized that it was either the leg or her people she didn’t hesitate. Now she has a prosthetic and is trying to get her life back. She can’t go back into the chopper so there is the fear that the review board will be dismissing her soon. Kendall Clark is a Black Hawk specialist that has been her friend and colleague for years. He has also been carrying a torch for her since forever.

I loved Lois- she is down to earth, she is honest and above all she is real. Kendall is the perfect guy for her- observant, calculating and with the right amount of confidence in his decisions. Some great moments in this one, also some teary moments in this one.

This tale got 4 out of 5 stars.

SEALed with Passion by Anne Elizabeth

Jonah is a Navy Seal on a mission- to help his best friend finish his house. His house is part of the Wounded Warrior Project- Kevin lost the use of his legs while he was serving in the military. He already knows that Alisha will be there after all she is Julie’s bestie. Jonah and Alisha met at Kevin and Julie’s wedding but have not spoken since that incredible night.

I liked Jonah- he is honorable, loyal and really just a nice guy. Alisha is well she is bossy, a know –it-all and pretty much likes things in order. They would fit together perfectly, except for the aftermath of that night they had together. Loved that this one gave us insight into Jonah’s head and why he did what he did.

3 out of 5 stars for this one.

Home Fire Inferno by Suzanne Brockmann

Okay so the Home Fire Inferno was not what I was expecting. Instead of a sweet romance I got a tale of how a Navy Seal team is really a family. What a tale this was. Two of the Seal’s partners are stranded in the desert and one goes into labor. Since the Team is go ready she doesn’t want her hubby to know. So they end up calling his Senior Officer. Who calls the members of the team that are back home to go and find them. Holy cowziers~ y’all this one made cry and laugh and yeah it was pretty awesome.

My Rating 5 stars out of 5

As a rule I tend to avoid books with multiple authors and stories. Mostly, because I end up paying for a book that has one or two stories that I like and the rest make me feel like it was a waste of my time. That is so not true in this case. Some of these tales are amazing- they will make you laugh and make you cry. There were three that I didn’t care for but other people loved them. Give this book a try- it’s for a good cause and well the stories are entertaining.

Book Trailer Saturday (16) A Book of Spirits and Thieves

Some people believe you can fall in love at first sight. When it comes to books I believe those people. Book trailers are an excellent way to fall in love at first sight. I hope to feature a book trailer here every Saturday to help you fall in love at first sight...

New York Times bestselling author Morgan Rhodes takes readers into exhilarating new high-fantasy 

territory with A BOOK OF SPIRITS AND THIEVES. Written in alternating perspectives that shift between modern-day Toronto and the ancient kingdoms of Mytica, Rhodes masterfully weaves the dark, magical world of her Falling Kingdoms series into an epic contemporary saga that will leave you breathless.

Modern-day Toronto: A heavy leather-bound book written in an unrecognizable language is delivered to the Speckled Muse, the antique bookshop owned by Crystal and Becca Hatcher’s mother. When Becca opens it, she’s sent into a coma, leaving Crys behind to uncover a series of terrifying secrets.

Ancient Mytica: A merciless goddess hunts for the elusive treasure that will make her ruler not only of Mytica, but of all the unseen worlds that lay beyond it.

Modern-day Toronto: Rich and aimless Farrell Grayson finally has the chance to prove himself when the mysterious leader of a powerful secret society invites him into his fold.

Ancient Mytica: Maddox Corso has always been different, but never remarkable. Everything changes the day he meets a pretty, unfamiliar girl from a faraway land, only to realize that he’s the only one who can see her.

Fate has brought these young people together, but ancient magic threatens to rip them apart.

Review: Scion

Author Kelly Oram

Format e-book

Print Length ?
Publisher Self-published
Published April 14, 2015

Russ Devereaux used to have it all—loving father, beautiful best friend, a carefree life in a town he loved, and strong magic. He was the king of his happy universe. Five months ago, that life was taken from him. Do not pass Go. Do not collect two hundred dollars.

He’s spent months fighting back and building himself a new life, in a new city, with new friends he now considers family. But suddenly, his new life might be in jeopardy of getting shot straight to hell just like the last one. Literally, this time.

He’s discovered power inside of him—an ancient, dark power that he shouldn’t have, can’t explain, can’t control, and definitely needs to keep secret. He needs answers, but before he can get them, he finds himself arrested and on his way to face the supernatural council. The same council that stole everything from him the first time.

As Russ struggles to keep his new power under wraps, his old life and he new one are about to collide and it’s bound to be explosive. He may not have all the answers he needs, but one thing is certain: he’ll be damned if anyone is taking his new life from him. That is, if he’s not just plain damned.

My Opinion

Scion is the third book in the Supernatural series. It starts off months after the ending of Ungifted. Throughout both books there has been one constant- Russ Devereaux. Russ has been the glue that has kept this series together. He moves fluidly throughout Dani and Grace’s worlds. He is what connects them. He unfortunalty has gotten the shaft. You see, Dani gets her happily ever after with Gabe (still not feeling him) and Grace kinda gets hers with Ethan (loving them). In Scion, you get to see the happy couple and pairing together again. Russ is alone, yea he has friends- Ethan’s momma took him in. He is still without a happily ever after which sucks because he is the one that cares the most of the three.

The council is evil- I still don’t like them regardless of what they say. Gabe makes me mad in this installment- so mad that I can honestly say I hate him. I want to shake Dani and scream at her “how can you side with this jerk?” Grace and Ethan of course are adorable. Now, back to Russ.

Without answers, he decides to return home. Clara tags along so that the happy couples are not split. Clara who Russ hates but has no clue why- Clara who is just as confused because she remembers a time when Russ did not hate her. He being the only person ever to not hate her. Why does everyone hate her? It may have something to do with her momma dearest. Who by the way needs to just die. That is one evil momma. Russ should be thanking God that Clara does follow him- as she is the reason he is alive. But does he- no he has an unexplained hatred of her. Being as smart as they are someone in the group should have figured out the root cause of their feud. Or at least suspected something. I love that Clara fights for him- even at the end. Even when Russ demands that she doesn’t.

The ending- holy cowziers what an ending! Talk about a cliffhanger. Talk about a game changer. Talk about making your readers wait until the next book is released. Well, done! Hopefully Clara can give Russ his HEA in the next book- cause boy does he sure deserve one.

My Rating 4 stars out of 5

Favorite Quote “Welcome to the freak club, my friend.”

Other People

Ethan- bestie
Grace-the ungifted one
Michael- archangel, Ethan's daddy

Swoon Thursday (26) Torn (Way Of The Warrior)

The fabulous girls over at YA Bound created this super HOT meme. Here's how it works.

From the book you’re currently reading, or one you just finished, tell us what made you SWOON. What got your heart pounding, your skin tingling, and your stomach fluttering. 

Shout it out on Twitter with the hashtag #YABound, post it here in the comments, or grab the adorable button above and share it on your blog! I want to know & so do the gals at YABound!

He slowly slid his hand around to the small of her back, pressing ever so slightly, bringing her just a little closer. He could feel her breath quicken, saw her eyes dilate, growing darker.

Kate SeRine Torn Kindle Location 1322

Joe has had a rough time of it and the one person to stand by his side has been his best friend Sadie. Now, she is in danger and he will do anything to protect her. Not only will he protect her, but his kisses make her toes curl.

* This novel has eight short stories in it.