StarAngel's Reviews

Book – The Dying Game

Author – Sara Schoen & Taylor Henderson
Publication Date – February 10, 2015
Genre – Suspense/Thriller

Type – Stand Alone
Cliffhanger - No
Rating – 4.25 out of 5 Stars

Complimentary Copy generously provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.

Synopsis

And all Matt thought he'd have to worry about was a killer hangover...

When Matthew Hastings finally has the opportunity to travel to the place that he's dreamt of visiting for years, he won't let anything stop him.

Not the ghost stories.

The hauntings.

Or even the fact that his pessimistic girlfriend has threatened to break up with him if he goes. In fact, it only makes him want to go more.

Then when he finds out that his childhood crush, Kelsey Hendricks, is going to be attending with his closest friends, nothing will stop him from leaving.

Now is his chance to tell her how he really feels. But will he get the chance? When a series of events traps the group underground in the tunnels of New Orleans, they soon discover...

They're not the only ones in the tunnels.

And they must find their way out by sunrise, or they will all be submitted to the horrors of...

The Dying Game.

My Thoughts - Story
I fell in love with Sara’s books when she asked me to read and review Amber Alert ---- at the time for her being 19 years old and writing about something very complex and mature, she quickly became a special author to me.

Now with her talent and Taylor Henderson’s – they have put together another nail biting, edge of your seat thriller. Reminding me of Saw and other horror movies I’m so addicted to, I gobbled this one up.

Yes, the beginning is a bit slow and the characters are a bit immature and silly but once they get into the tunnels – it seems like their personalities suddenly grow up and from here it becomes a speed read dying to find out who makes it out alive.

These two 20 year old authors have a great future ahead of them – with a bit of content and editing problems to clean up – I can see them climbing to the top of the horror/thriller genre.

Re-Cap
How would you handle getting stuck in the underground tunnels in New Orleans? What if a psycho had set up traps and riddles along the way that could either result in death or the entrance to another tunnel?

Read about Matthew and his friends fighting for their lives underground the city streets and cemeteries.

 
Reason for Reading – Author request

Story Rating – 4.5 out of 5 Stars

Steam Rating – 4 out of 5 Stars

Angst Rating – 4.5 out of 5 Stars

Writing Rating – 4 out of 5 Stars

Content Flow Rating – 4 out of 5 Stars

Would Read More from Author? Yes

Recommend To – Anyone who likes a quick and thrilling read.

Book – Isaura (Aberrant #3)

Author – Ruth Silver

Publication Date – December 4, 2013
Genre –Dystopian/Romance
Type – Part of Series
Cliffhanger – No
Rating – 4.25 out of 5 Stars

Complimentary copy generously provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.

Synopsis

SECRETS WILL BE REVEALED.

Olivia has little choice but to head into the dangerous Gravelands, as the new government wrestles with fixing the damage to society. If traveling through outlaw territory isn’t frightening enough, Olivia learns she has exposed her secret and is hunted by those she trusted. In a race against time, her life and those she loves are in jeopardy.

My Thoughts - Story
I am writing this review with dual thoughts swirling around my head…happiness that Olivia and Joshua have finally found their HEA but sadness that this series is over.

I had the opportunity to read the first book of the series because of a blitz and once I finished, I just had to email Ms. Silver and ask for the rest of the series because I couldn’t think straight until I found out how this story ended.

I loved the characters, I loved the premise of the story and I got sucked in to the events happening around Olivia and Joshua. The secondary characters were awesome to make the story even better and I just can’t say enough about this series.

Re-Cap
We pick right up after the fall of the government and now there are new threats in the horizon. Secrets start coming out about these “special” people and a new villain is introduced along with some old ones popping back up!

Olivia must find out what other special abilities she has in order to fix the dwindling population along with saving Joshua.

Reason for Reading – Author Request
Story – 5 out of 5 Stars
Steam –  4 out of 5 Stars
Angst – 4.5 out of 5 Stars
Writing – 4.5 out of 5 Stars
Content Flow – 4.25 out of 5 Stars

HEA (Spoiler) – [spoiler]Yes[/spoiler]

Told From – Single POV

Would Read More from Author? Hell Yeah
Recommend To – Everyone who loves a great dystopian and romance.

Book – Ravished (The Teplo Files #1)

Author – Ayden K. Morgen
Publication Date – April 5, 2015
Genre – Romance

Type – Stand Alone
Rating – 4.25 out of 5 Stars

Complimentary Copy generously provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.

Synopsis

When Tristan Riley drags Lillian Maddox onto the dance floor at Teplo, he intends only to protect his cover… at least that's what he tells himself. But the lovely Lillian would tempt a saint, and Tristan is far from a gentleman. Beneath the bright lights of the Vetrov family's dangerous club, the weary DEA agent finds himself captivated by the ballerina, coaxing them both into a reckless, erotic encounter.

But Tristan isn't prepared for the intense connection between him and Lillian, or for the fallout of their tryst. In a matter of days, their lives careen wildly off course, catapulting them both into a deadly game of hide and seek with the Vetrov family and one of Mexico's deadliest drug cartels.

Trying to keep his hands to himself while working alongside Lillian to stop Anton Vetrov's deadly new drug proves almost impossible for Tristan, but what choice does he have when being with her might get her killed? He should know: his entire family was murdered by people just like Anton.

When the stakes are raised and innocent lives are lost, will Tristan be able to let go of the guilt, or will he destroy his chance at happiness with Lillian before it ever truly begins? 

My Thoughts - Story
I wouldn’t have had the pleasure of reading Ms. Morgen’s work if not for the Blog Tour…and DAMN…I’m so happy I had the opportunity because now I have a new series I can’t wait to read!

I enjoyed the storyline of this book and was on the edge of my seat the whole time. The connection between Tristan and Lillian was mesmerizing and the back story of Lillian was fantastic.

Ms. Morgen did a spectacular job developing these characters and don’t even get me started with the steamy sex scenes…especially the dancing these two did! WOW!

Re-Cap
Lillian was a famous ballerina who lost everything from an accident – just getting her independence back, she visits the Teplo Club to watch the dancers until a stranger grabs her to dance with him. With the way he supports her on the dance floor, she once again can let her body go to feel the music. Tristan is attracted to her and can’t help himself from wanting more.

But there are so many obstacles in the way to have anything else from her. He isn’t really who he poses to be and with all the skeletons in each of their closets, the future looks bleak.

 
Reason for Reading – Blog Tour

Story Rating – 4.5 out of 5 Stars

Steam Rating – 5 out of 5 Stars

Angst Rating – 4 out of 5 Stars

Writing Rating – 4.5 out of 5 Stars

Content Flow Rating – 4 out of 5 Stars

Would Read More from Author? Yes

Recommend To – Anyone who likes to read a lust to romance and a bit of suspense thrown in.

Book – Kane’s Hell

Author – Elizabeth Finn
Publication Date – May 1, 2015
Genre – Romance

Type – Stand Alone
Cliffhanger - No
Rating – 4.5 out of 5 Stars

Complimentary Copy generously provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.

Synopsis

Kane and Helene were the best of friends until a nightmare devastated them… Hopes were destroyed, dreams shattered, a budding teenage love torn to pieces. Eleven years later their lives are nothing like they once were. Time has changed them … and not for the better.

Helene is smart, driven, and accomplished—her education and achievements a smoke screen hiding the frigid and fragile child wounded long ago.

Kane is equally obsessed with his coping mechanisms—fighting … drinking … screwing … compulsively destroying himself one vice at a time.

When their paths collide again, their past becomes an obstacle no coping mechanism in the world can protect them from. But confronting the past so they can heal in the present is no easy task. Can Kane reach Helene and recapture what used to burn so warmly between them, or will his own self destructive demons pull her into his hell?

A woman determined to look forward. A man always looking back. A love desperate to be restored. 

“You’re the brightest, warmest star in my universe. You’ll never be less than everything to me.” 

My Thoughts - Story
It took me a bit to figure out how to rate and review this because so many things either pulled at my heartstrings or pissed me off.

Ms. Finn always has a way to incorporate questionable subjects and add them in a story to really make you think about your original morals and opinions on a debatable topic. She does it again with this story of Kane and Hell with a subject so controversial that I found myself changing my stance on it a few times.

But not only does she achieve a thought provoking story but she also adds in the philosophical aspect where different opinions are massaged into the underlying tale of Kane and Hell. I think this is the reason why I love Ms. Finn’s work so much – while you are reading and are completely engrossed in the story – you don’t even realize she is making you ponder certain touchy issues. She is subtle in her message and that takes a very experienced and talented writer.

The development of these characters is astounding and even though I guessed the secret, I still had doubts until the outcome was unveiled.

What do you come away with by the end of the book?

You get a short lesson on philosophy

You feel (whether it be sadness, joy, satisfaction, confusion, or any other)

Your brain cells are put to the test

You don’t feel like you wasted a day or two reading a cookie-cutter romance

Don’t read if…

You only like traditional love stories

You are prejudiced in your viewpoints and don’t like to be swayed

You don’t like to relate to the characters

You don’t like to feel so many emotions

Re-Cap
Ms. Finn takes us on a journey from the past to the present in the POV of Kane and Hell – something happened in the past to these two that has them both leading a life of destruction or ignorance.

It’s been eleven years since that night and Kane is back in town after leaving Hell without any explanation. Is he back to make her life HELL or to reestablish their past feelings for each other? This time though, they are both different. They each have their own ways of dealing with what happened in the past but the layers they have built to protect themselves are nothing compared to the attraction they feel for each other.

As they both try to heal from the past with the help of each other, there are still secrets Kane holds that just very well may be their final downfall.

What? You thought I would reveal the story? The ending? Maybe the issue at hand?

Yeah right….read the book and find out for yourself.

 
Reason for Reading – Author request

Story Rating – 4.5 out of 5 Stars

Steam Rating – 5 out of 5 Stars

Angst Rating – 5 out of 5 Stars

Writing Rating – 4.5 out of 5 Stars

Content Flow Rating – 4.5 out of 5 Stars

Told in – Dual POV

Hero – Kane – didn’t like him from time to time but ended up loving the hell out of him

Heroine – Helene (Hell) – she was a great character and an inspiration to all

HEA? - [spoiler]Yes[/spoiler]

Would Read More from Author? Yes

Recommend To – Anyone who really likes to deal with issues in their reading – issues that really make you second-guess your original stance.

Book – Dissident (Bellator Saga #1)

Author – Cecilia London
Publication Date – March 17, 2015
Genre – Thriller/Suspense Romance

Type – Part of Series
Cliffhanger - Yes
Rating – 4.25 out of 5 Stars

Complimentary Copy generously provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.

Synopsis

She once was important. Now she’s considered dangerous.

In a new America where almost no one can be trusted, Caroline lies unconscious in a government hospital as others decide her fate. She is a political dissident, wanted for questioning by a brutal regime that has come to power in a shockingly easy way. As she recovers from her injuries, all she has are her memories. And once she wakes up, they may not matter anymore.

Part One of a Six Part Series. Each part is a full length novel between 60,000-120,000 words and ends in a cliffhanger. For readers 18+. This saga contains adult situations, including non-gratuitous violence, explicit (consensual) sex, psychological and physical trauma, and an oftentimes dark and gritty plot (particularly in part two).

My Thoughts - Story
This was such an enjoyable once I got around the political jargon. You won’t find me watching the news or up to date on my “Washington, DC” information. The most I know about the Senate and the House is what I learned in Senior year of High School and that was eon’s ago.

Behind all the information about elections and scandals, is a beautiful love story that touched my heart. I fell in love with Caroline and think that Jack is one sexy man! It broke my heart to find out what he did.

Now the one problem I had with the book is the Prologue – I like a bit of a mystery with a romance – will they get together? Are they ever going to fall in love – but the prologue starts in the future and you already know that Caroline and Jack are married so it took away the surprise for me.

Other than that – I really enjoyed the story and can’t wait to see what happens in the next one!

Re-Cap
We start out with Jack and Caroline running from soldiers trying to get across the border to safety. Something is really kooky about the US now…states are breaking off from the union. Both Jack and Caroline are injured and Caroline is only slowing Jack down – they have important information that needs to get in the right hands, so Caroline sends him without her.

We flip flop back and forth – from the past to the present.

In the present we have Caroline in a hospital – waiting to recover so she can be taken into custody for treason and questioned.

In the past we have Caroline as a speaker of the house meeting Jack for the first time and starting her first relationship after her husband’s death.

 
Reason for Reading – Author request

Story Rating – 4.5 out of 5 Stars

Steam Rating – 4.5 out of 5 Stars

Angst Rating – 4 out of 5 Stars

Writing Rating – 4.25 out of 5 Stars

Content Flow Rating – 4 out of 5 Stars

Would Read More from Author? Yes

Recommend To – Anyone who loves a great suspense --- need to know what’s gonna happen next.

Book – Odium III (The Dead Saga #3)

Author – Claire C. Riley

Publication Date – Spring 2015
Genre –Zombie/Romance
Type – Part of Series
Cliffhanger – Yes
Rating – 5 out of 5 Stars

Complimentary copy generously provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.

Synopsis

No synopsis in print yet

The story continues with Nina, Mikey, Michael, Nova and a few new characters.

My Thoughts - Story
I’m typing this as I just shut down my e-reader because my emotions are doing double time right now.

I’m pissed…yeah – I’m fucking pissed. What the fuck have you done to me Claire? How could you?

Why do I feel this way?

**This was not the ending I was hoping for

**More fallen people

**It’s not Winter of 2015

**The sneak peek into the next book didn’t tell me shit

This is why I love Claire’s writing so much. She is able to touch every single emotion I have in a few hundred pages. In one day, I cried – I laughed – I got pissed – I got the squishy feelings and I followed these characters through the world of zombies and dangerous men.

Shit, I know I should wait to write this review because everything is so new and fresh right now – my head and heart feel like a pinball machine going on a full tilt because I want to share with you all of the wonderful things about this story. This coming to Jesus moment for Nina, the beautiful wisdom of Crazy Pants, the loyalty of Mikey and the ping-pong emotions that is a result of Nova.

I am not throwing words out there or kissing ass – but I do have to share that Claire C. Riley is the top Zombie writer ever in my book. When a book comes out written by her, I don’t even hesitate to read it.

Re-Cap
We start right up where Odium II left off – Nina and Nova need to find Hilary and Deacon to find out about the pregnancy. Mikey is on his way to the Mall for more pillaging. The story is broken apart by Nina’s POV through her mission and then Mikey’s POV through his. We switch back to Nina when the two meet back up again.

I really can’t go on about the story because I will give too much away. I can only say that I couldn’t put this down from the moment I started it today.

Reason for Reading – Author Request
Story – 5 out of 5 Stars
Steam –  5 out of 5 Stars
Angst – 10 out of 5 Stars
Writing – 5 out of 5 Stars
Content Flow – 5 out of 5 Stars

HEA (Spoiler) – Cliffhanger

Told From – Dual POV

Hero – Mikey – Even though he comes from the bad side…he is such a sweetheart

Heroine – Nina – One tough chick but so torn in the inside
Would Read More from Author? Hell Yeah
Recommend To – Everyone who loves a great post-apoco zombie love story.

Book – Immortal Flame

Author – Jillian David

Publication Date – February 2, 2015
Genre –Paranormal Romance
Type – Stand Alone
Cliffhanger – No
Rating – 4.5 out of 5 Stars

Complimentary copy generously provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.

Synopsis

World War II veteran Peter Blackstone traded his soul so that his wife could live. That was 1945. Since then, Peter has lived an unnaturally long life as a hired killer, providing the life forces upon which Jerahmeel feeds to survive. 

Doctor Allison La Croix has a big problem. She randomly sees people’s deaths. She has longed to be free of her twisted “gift” to live a normal life without fear of predicting yet another loved one’s demise.

After a horrific accident, a severely injured Peter arrives in Allison’s ER. The vision Allison experiences when she touches him nearly kills her. He teaches her to block these devastating episodes as she finds a way to unlock his forgotten, passionate soul. 

But Jerahmeel’s minion has orders to destroy Peter and anyone he loves. Will Peter’s and Allison’s shattered souls survive the devious plan? Or could their love save them both? Someone will have hell to pay. 

My Thoughts - Story
Wow…just wow! I am in shock with how much I enjoyed this book. It totally took me off guard because by reading the synopsis – I honestly didn’t think I was going to like it.

The writing is fantastic – and the way Ms. David uses descriptive information, I felt I was playing the movie out in my head. I could see the characters, the scenery and everything else that was going on.

I instantly connected with Allison and loved her character the most. That little spitfire was a hero in my book. Now, Peter I had to warm up to him but once he chilled out…he had a spot in my heart. I also loved the secondary characters and can’t wait for Dante’s book.

For this being a debut book – my hat goes off to Ms. David!

Re-Cap
Allison has the ability to see a person’s death and it happens quickly after. Is this a curse or a gift? Living with this curse, Allison tries her best to control it until she meets Peter. The mysterious patient who came in and healed quickly.

Peter has sold his soul to the devil and is his minion in killing criminals to feed energy to the big ole’ skeezy Satan. He is bound to hell until he has his Meaningful Kill. In constant turmoil over what he has to do, Allison seems to be the only one who calms him.

These two must work together if they want a future together.

Reason for Reading – Author Request
Story – 5 out of 5 Stars
Steam –  4.5 out of Stars
Angst – 4.25 out of 5 Stars
Writing – 5 out of 5 Stars
Content Flow – 4.5 out of 5 Stars

HEA (Spoiler) – [spoiler] Yes [/spoiler]

Would Read More from Author? Yes
Recommend To – Anyone who likes a subtle paranormal with a great romance

Book – Thrust

Author – Victoria Ashley

Publication Date – April 6, 2015
Genre –Erotica/Romance
Type – Stand Alone
Cliffhanger – No
Rating – 4.5  out of 5 Stars

Complimentary copy generously provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.

Synopsis

2 brothers... 1 girl... 

I never expected to be that girl. The one desiring the touch of two brothers and being thrust into a world of intense pleasure. Not in reality anyway.

Both of these brothers are out to please and they both have the equipment to do it. The Wilder brothers have proved that.

Kyan Wilder fucks like no other man I've ever experienced. He's rough, creative and still willing to be gentle when you need it. He's every single woman's desire brought to life and he's not willing to let me go until he's done pleasing me in every possible way he can.

Hunter Wilder is a loose cannon. He likes to party, get wild and then show you a good time in the bedroom. He keeps me pleased and reminds me that I'm still young and not everything in life needs to be so serious.

We're all fine with sharing. Things are going smoothly. It saves the brothers from having to commit and it ensures that I'll always get the sexual satisfaction that I desire. I mean what girl doesn’t dream of having sex with the two most sinfully sexiest brothers to walk this earth? 

Well I didn’t… Until I got a taste.

But then I remembered that nothing this good lasts forever... 

My Thoughts - Story
Damn…the first thing I have to get off of my chest is:

Hi, my name is Carol

and I am a cover whore

But, I did agree to read this for Ms. Ashley before I even saw those fucking abs that I would love to run my tongue across and oh how I want to take….ahem – sorry see I told you I was a whore!

Now, if you check all of Ms. Ashley’s books, you will see that I have read all the books she has released because I can’t deny any book she writes. Why? Holy Shit…the biggest reason that this is porn with a story. It’s no lie that I was reading this in bed last night and I had to take a break and visit with my good friend BOB.

Ms. Ashley has a way of taking steamy scenes and weaving it into a story that you aren’t side-tracked by the sex. It is an added bonus that makes the story even more complex.

If you are like me, and you can’t stand love triangles…this book is still OK. It’s not so much a triangle but just an agreement for sex. There isn’t any angst with the situation, and I believe it brings in a needed part to the story to unfold correctly.

And I have to add here….there was one saying in this book that has made it to my “most favorite” words!

Fluffin’ the muffin

Re-Cap
Calla meets Kyan and the attraction is instant – sex wise. Kyan doesn’t want a relationship – he gets off on pleasuring women and he can’t get Calla out of his mind.

Hunter is a blast from Calla’s past – being an old crush from high school. He wants to fuck her and she has always dreamed of fucking him.

These two are brothers – no strings – no relationships.

Really?

Reason for Reading – Author Request
Story – 4.25 out of 5 Stars
Steam –  5 out of 5 Stars
Angst – 4.5 out of 5 Stars
Writing – 4.5 out of 5 Stars
Content Flow – 5 out of 5 Stars

HEA (Spoiler) – [spoiler]Yes[/spoiler]

Would Read More from Author? Hell Yeah
Recommend To – Everyone who loves a subtle and steamy erotica (with a story)

Book – Twisted

Author – Andrew E. Kaufman

Publication Date – April 7, 2015
Genre –Psychological Thriller/Mind Fuck
Type – Stand Alone
Cliffhanger – No
Rating – 5+++ out of 5 Stars

Complimentary copy generously provided by Amazon Publishing via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.

Synopsis

The psychologist with a troubled past…

Dr. Christopher Kellan spends his days at Loveland Psychiatric Hospital, overseeing a unit known as Alpha Twelve, home to the most deranged and psychotic killers imaginable. His newest patient, Donny Ray Smith, is accused of murdering ten young girls and making their bodies disappear. But during his first encounter with Donny, Christopher finds something else unsettling: the man looks familiar.

The killer with a secret…

Donny Ray knows things about Christopher—things he couldn’t have possibly learned at Loveland. As the psychologist delves deeper into the mysterious patient’s case, Christopher’s life whirls out of control. The contours of his mind are rapidly losing shape, and his grasp on reality is slipping even faster. Is he going mad, or is that what Donny Ray wants him to think?

The terror that binds them…

In this taut psychological thriller from Andrew E. Kaufman, bestselling author of The Lion, the Lamb, the Hunted, a tormented man must face his fear and enter the mind of a killer to find the truth…even if it costs him his sanity. 

My Thoughts - Story
OK…I don’t even know where to start this review because this book fucking blew me away! After coming down from reading Mama Cried, Jahy contacted me and dared me to read a book that she picked out…I was up for a dare and the only thing left was to wait for my NetGalley request get approved. I know the books Jahy picks up are normally really fucked up but this was the last thing I was expecting.

If you know anything about me, you know that there are very few books out there that I can’t guess the ending and the twist to the book…well, yeah, you guessed it. I couldn’t figure this book out for shit. I kept coming up with these off the wall scenarios that would have turned this book into a sci-fi or horror or even fantasy but NOPE! By the time I got to the ending, I felt like I should have tried to kick myself in the ass.

Gripping isn’t a word to sum up this book – Fantastic is another one that won’t do this justice…Honestly I don’t think one simple word can come close – now, if there was a word like “supercalifragilisticexpialidocious” that could pertain to thrillers…then YUP…that would be the word!

This is one of those books where when you pick it up and get through the beginning building up the story, you can’t put it down – you just need to know what Chris is going to come up with next. What Donny Ray is going to do to fuck with Chris and what kind of antics Devon will get in.

This is definitely a book I would recommend to EVERYONE who loves to get blown away by a twist so hard to figure out….

And I’ll dare you…read the book and if you can figure out the twist – message me with your guess and if you are right….I’ll gift you a $0.99 book of your choice!  (No cheating)

Re-Cap
Chris is on a new assignment – he must figure out if the child killer, Donny Ray, is insane. Follow Chris through breaking down Donny Ray and how Chris’ life breaks down as he gets closer and closer to the truth.

Things really aren’t as they seem anymore and Chris starts to worry that he will follow in his father’s footsteps of adult onset schizophrenia. Is he danger to himself? Is he having hallucinations? When will the breaking point be before Chris realizes not everything is as it seems?

Reason for Reading – Recommended by Jahy
Story – 5 out of 5 Stars
Steam –  N/A
Angst – 5 out of 5 Stars
Writing – 5 out of 5 Stars
Content Flow – 5 out of 5 Stars

HEA (Spoiler) – That’s for you to decide
Would Read More from Author? Hell Yeah
Recommend To – Everyone who loves mind fucks.

Book – Scandalous Endeavors

Author – Amanda Mariel

Publication Date – December 12, 2014
Genre –Historical Fiction
Type – Stand Alone
Cliffhanger – No
Rating – 4 out of 5 Stars

Complimentary copy generously provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.

Synopsis

Lady Amelia has only known the comfort of life in mid-eighteenth century English aristocracy. But when first her mother and then her father die, she finds herself alone, grief stricken and….. not of age. Her appointed guardian, an American uncle, has ordered her travel to his plantation where she must remain for at least two years when she will come of age. 

With the help of Lady Grace and Lady Sarah, Lady Amelia gets her uncle to agree to give her four weeks to settle her affairs and unbeknownst to him…find an English lord to marry so she can remain in her beloved England. Despite her mourning period she endeavors to trap one of London’s eligible bachelors in matrimony. 

Lord Goldstone, Lady Grace’s nephew is devilishly handsome, but a Scottish Duke and so entirely unacceptable as a possible husband. After all Scotland is not her beloved London and environs. He also has a nasty habit of showing up at all the wrong moments and thwarting her carefully laid plans to ensnare a suitable husband. Sparks fly as the pair find themselves at odds with each other and drawn to each other at the same time. Can they find a way to stop arguing long enough to explore their growing passion? Is it strong enough to make Lady Amelia give up her English home after all? Or will Lady Amelia find a suitable English lord and avoid social exile in America? Time is running out. 

My Thoughts - Story
It’s been awhile since I’ve read any type of Historical Fiction and I’m so happy this was the one that broke my dry spell with. It wasn’t ‘in your face’ historical information – instead, it was a cute story about a girl who will do anything to stay in England.

There were so many times, I found myself snickering at the crazy banter between Amelia and Lord Goldstone and her crazy antics.

This was a quick and funny read and I’m so happy I was offered to step out of my comfort zone and read this book.

Re-Cap
Lady Amelia finds herself alone without parents and still not at the age of being on her own. Her guardian wants to bring her to America but Amelia doesn’t want to leave her precious England – with only 2 months, Amelia must construct a scandalous meeting to snatch a husband.  What she doesn’t expect is her friend’s handsome nephew, Lord Goldstone!

Reason for Reading – Author Request
Story – 4 out of 5 Stars
Steam –  3.5 out of 5 Stars
Angst – 3.5 out of 5 Stars
Writing – 4 out of 5 Stars
Content Flow – 4 out of 5 Stars

Told In – Single POV

Heroine/Personality – Amelia – a bit quirky, immature but makes for a funny story

HEA (Spoiler) – Yes
Would Read More from Author? [spoiler]Yes[/spoiler]
Recommend To – Anyone who enjoys Historical Fiction with humor

Book – Aberrant (Aberrant #1)

Author – Ruth Silver

Publication Date – April 16, 2013
Genre –Y/A Dystopian
Type – Part of Series
Cliffhanger – Yes
Rating – 4.25 out of 5 Stars

Complimentary copy generously provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.

Synopsis

In the future Dystopian society of Cabal, the government instills equality for all and offers its citizens the perfect system. There is food, shelter and jobs for everyone. The one requirement is to follow the rules without question, including the government's match in marriage and "The Day of the Chosen", a lottery that randomly selects families to conceive children as natural means hasn't existed in generations. Following her eighteenth birthday, Olivia Parker accepts her requirement to marry her childhood best friend, Joshua Warren, and is eager to start her work assignment and new life when it all comes abruptly to an end as she's arrested and thrown in prison. The only crime committed, her existence. Olivia is unlike the rest of the world born not from "The Day of the Chosen." The truth haunts the government and puts her life in grave danger as one simple fact would destroy the perfect system. 

With Joshua's help, Olivia breaks free of prison and is forced on the run. Together they set out to find the promised rebel town in search of a new home and new life together. Their situation seems less than promising as they reach the town of Haven. New rules and customs must be adhered to in order to stay. Leaving would mean most certain death in the large expanse of the Gravelands. Time is running out as the government mounts an attack to destroy Olivia and bury her secret with her. Thrown into a world unlike their own, they must quickly adapt to survive. 

My Thoughts - Story
I was leery on reading this book because Dystopian is not my normal genre and especially young adult, but this book was so unique and easy to read. I loved the characters Olivia and Joshua. Especially in the beginning with their innocent kisses and the loyalty, they had for one another.

From the moment I picked this book and started reading, my interest held fast and I couldn’t wait to find out what would happen from city to city that these two traveled…and don’t even get me started when they finally are thrown into a new life struggling to stay alive with other recruits. Here are two 18 year olds who never had to lift a finger to fight, survive or actually do anything and now they must learn basic survival and fighting skills. Either they succeed or they die.

Through all of this the author connects us to these two but not only will you root for these two to stay together and survive but the author develops these two where a love story unfolds. I love how Ms Silver wove this intricate story about a dystopian life around an innocent love story.

Re-Cap
At the age of 18 children are paired up and forced to marry, but not for love or to procreate. Procreation is unheard of since it’s impossible for women to get pregnant the natural way.

Olivia and Joshua have been best friends since being little children and to Olivia’s delight, she is paired up with her love, Joshua. But on their wedding night, she is brutally thrown in jail without any clue why.

Joshua does everything in his power to get Olivia out of that jail and they escape to another city but this one also has other plans for these two and it doesn’t entail the two being together.

As Joshua and Olivia run and fight for their lives, they continue to mesh their relationship tighter and find out some hidden secrets about what is really going on and why Olivia is so important to the future of the world.

Reason for Reading – Blog Tour
Story – 4.5 out of 5 Stars
Steam –  4 out of 5 Stars
Angst – 4.5 out of 5 Stars
Writing – 4 out of 5 Stars
Content Flow – 4.5 out of 5 Stars

Told In – Single POV

Heroine/Personality – Olivia – now she’s some tough chick!

HEA (Spoiler) – It follows through with more to come
Would Read More from Author? Yes – I can’t wait to start reading the rest of the trilogy
Recommend To – Anyone who loves a great dystopian read.

Book – Mama Cried

Author – Talia Haven

Publication Date – January 9, 2015
Genre –Fantasy
Type – Stand Alone
Cliffhanger – No
Rating – 4.5 out of 5 Stars

Synopsis

Jenny was enjoying herself on the swings when Azula, one of the guardians of the playground came to take her away. 
Together they journey to a cinder building where Jenny must make a powerful decision.

My Thoughts - Story
I want to start off this review by thanking Talia Haven for requesting me to read and review this book.

Never…never in my life have a read a book only 12 pages long that said sooo much! This book gripped me and the funny thing about this is that after I talked Jahy into reading it also…we discussed this book for a longer time than it took me to read it. There were so many points to discuss – so many different opinions about what happened in these 12 pages. So many questions without definite answers.

And here is the kicker…only 12 pages and I choked up – not once….but twice! This book blew me away!

Now what can possibly be said in 12 pages that means so much?? Well, while Jahy and I were going on and on – I finally came up with a great metaphor to explain how much is packed into this story.

Have you ever seen those beach towels/sponges that are pressurized into a small ball? They are soo tiny but when you add them to water, they expand to something enormous. That is this book…it’s small but packs a big fucking punch!

Oh, and I want to add to my review that Jahy needs to eat her words when she originally laughed at me for reading it. You can’t see me…but I’m sticking my tongue out at her.

Re-Cap
We start with Jenny in a playground with her two black puppies.

Jenny goes on a journey to a prison.

Jenny must make a decision.

Yup – that’s all your getting out of me – read the story and find out what shocked me – get shocked too!

Reason for Reading – Author Request
Story – 4.5 out of 5 Stars
Steam –  N/A
Angst – 4.5 out of 5 Stars
Writing – 4.5 out of 5 Stars
Content Flow – 4.5 out of 5 Stars

Told In – Single POV

Heroine/Personality – Jenny – just a small girl on a journey

HEA (Spoiler) – It depends on the reader
Would Read More from Author? Yes
Recommend To – Anyone with a few free minutes who wants to be blown away!

Book – Crave the Rose

Author – Karen Kincy

Publication Date – February 14, 2015
Genre –Romance
Type – Stand Alone
Cliffhanger – No
Rating – 3.75 out of 5 Stars

Synopsis

While studying abroad at Oxford, Cassia loses her boyfriend in an accident--the night after she catches him screwing another girl. Only Bram, an Irish charmer whose wolfish smile hides his darkest secrets, makes her feel anything but numb. Cassia refuses to be hurt again. This is sex, nothing more, with three little rules:

No cheating.
No lies.
No falling in love. 

But rules are made to be broken...

My Thoughts - Story
I enjoyed this story but did have a problem connecting with Cassia. At times, I felt she was a real bitch after her douchebag’s accident and death. At first, I really sympathized with her but after that and her relationship with Bram, I thought she turned into a raving bitch only caring about herself. Now, she did redeem herself further into the story.  

I enjoyed that Bram was real – even though he was characterized as smart and attending Oxford, he still was tempted and got caught doing something unethical. I also liked the fact that the author brought epilepsy into the mix  and it wasn’t something that Bram was able to overcome with strength or love or a miracle cure. It was front and center that his life had to revolve around this.

The author’s writing style was good and that kept me interested in the story and found myself rooting for these two – I found myself praying that Bram would find a way to knock some sense into Cassia and throw out those silly rules. I also wished that Bram would stand up to his mother and understand that most of his epileptic episodes had to do with all the stress she was loading on him. But then on the other hand, I loved his father – what a cool guy!

Re-Cap
Bram instantly is attracted to Cassia while he is studying at Oxford but unfortunately she already has a boyfriend – well that is until she catches her boyfriend screwing someone else in their bed.  A few months later, Cassia and Bram run into each other again and Bram offers her a job at his estate to renovate the gardens. By this time Cassia has written off men and swears she won’t fall in love again. Sex only…

But Bram has other intentions and tries his hardest to get past those silly rules and break through to the Cassia he first met at Oxford. While he battles with his mother, the estate and his epilepsy – he ends up burying himself too deep in a mess and the only one who can save him is Cassia. But can he count on her to come through?

Reason for Reading – Author Request
Story – 4 out of 5 Stars
Steam –  4 out of 5 Stars
Angst – 3.5 out of 5 Stars
Writing – 4 out of 5 Stars
Content Flow – 3.5 out of 5 Stars

Told In – Dual POV

Heroine/Personality – Cassia – couldn’t connect with this character until later in the story

Hero/Personality – Bram – sexy Irishman who knows what he wants

HEA (Spoiler) – [spoiler]Yes[/spoiler]
Would Read More from Author? Yes
Recommend To – Anyone who loves a nice and angsty love story

Book – Secret Somethings

Author – Amber Kay

Publication Date – February 2015
Genre –Psychological Thriller/Romance
Type – Stand Alone
Cliffhanger – No
Rating – 4.5 out of 5 Stars

Complimentary copy generously provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.

Synopsis

Marriage is bliss for newlywed Jude Clayton. Lord knows she could use it. After years of battling a destructive mental disorder, she’s hungry for some sense of normalcy. Little does she know, she will find the complete opposite with her new husband Bryce. On the surface, Bryce Clayton is every woman’s dream—make no mistake about it. Handsome, intelligent, wealthy and accomplished, Bryce only has one problem. An obsession. 

Poor fragile Jude knows nothing about her husband’s “extracurricular activities.” What she’ll discover about herself in the process is much scarier than anything either of them can imagine. Jude, with her grotesque sense of humor and her many mental abnormalities, has developed an obsession of her own. 

As their unconventional “romance” blossoms into a toxic relationship, truth and lies clash. Some begin to wonder: Is Jude a helpless victim to her husband’s deceitful ways or is she a dutiful accomplice?

My Thoughts - Story
Sooooo…to tell you the truth – I was kinda dreading reading this because I have been on such a cheesy romance fascination lately and thought I wouldn’t be able to get into a dark thriller. But…HOLY FUCK…this book fucking gripped me from the beginning and I couldn’t put the sucker down.  I even went as far as calling my buddy Jahy and telling her that she HAD to read this. Now, if you know Jahy – you know that woman is hard to please! So, I must have really thought this book was fantastic in order for me to recommend it to her!

Firstly, I have to commend the author – her writing was superb! Yes, there were a few typos but if the author has the ability to write things like a few typos are not bothersome at all! And I can’t say enough of Ms. Kay’s writing ability. She gripped me – she shocked me and she captivated me with her words.

Then we have to discuss the TWIST in this book – SHIT – I didn’t see that coming. Normally, I’m really good at guessing the outcome of a book but this one threw me for a loop.

Fast paced – and I have to repeat GRIPPING again because it really is! Yes, this book is dark and yes, this book delves into the psychosis of two mentally disturbed individuals and sometimes it’s almost comical that one disturbed is trying to fix the other.

OK – so enough of that. I don’t want to give too much of the book away and spoil it for you readers.

Re-Cap
We start off with Jude at the police department giving her confession to killing her husband. WHAT?? Yup – that early in the book we already know that Jude murdered Bryce. So what now? The book is over? Umm..no.

Now Jude wants to give her confession and tell the detective the whole story from the very beginning. So, let’s rewind to the first time Jude meets Bryce at the butcher. And from here – we flip flop back from the beginning of their relationship and switch to their honeymoon. (yeah – she offed him on their honeymoon)

Jude has been mentally labeled as a threat to herself and others and is under the care of her obsessive, protective mother and her wishy-washy father. She had black outs and doesn’t remember periods of time, while in her neighborhood there are a string of brutal murders. We learn so much about Jude and how the poor girl has tried to cope with all the shit handed to her. It isn’t until Bryce, that Jude starts to come out of her shell and starts to think for herself – but is Bryce really good for her or is he the catalyst to her demise?

Reason for Reading – Author Request
Story – 4.5 out of 5 Stars
Steam –  3.5 out of 5 Stars
Angst – 3.5 out of 5 Stars
Writing – 4.5 out of 5 Stars
Content Flow – 4 out of 5 Stars

Told In – Single POV

Heroine/Personality – Jude – almost childish in the beginning but matures by the end

Hero/Personality – Bryce – starts out lovable but something is off

HEA (Spoiler) – It depends on the reader
Would Read More from Author? Yes
Recommend To – Anyone who loves a great mind fuck

Book – Untrue Colors

Author – Veronica Forand
Publication Date – March 10, 2015
Genre – Romance/Suspense

Type – Stand Alone
Cliffhanger - No
Rating – 4 out of 5 Stars

Complimentary Copy generously provided for Blog Tour in exchange for an honest review.

Synopsis

She’s on the run…

Brilliant art appraiser Alex Northrop’s ex used stolen art to fund his nefarious activities. Now he wants her dead. But it isn’t just herself she’s worried about – if he discovers who she really is, he’ll kill her family.

Professor Henry Chilton is shocked to find a beautiful stranger passed out in his bed, and even more so when she reveals a priceless painting is a forgery – the painting he’d planned to use to fund a woman’s shelter. She’s mysterious and frightened, and he is determined to discover why.

Alex's knowledge of art is undeniable—just as Henry’s attraction to her is irresistible. But in order to help him recover the real painting, Alex isn't just risking exposure...she's risking her life.

My Thoughts - Story

I was a bit skeptical about reading this book because romantic suspense isn’t usually my favorite genre to read but I was surprised with how easy it was to get into this book and connect with the characters. I really liked Alex and her personality so much – she was such a strong woman after being abused and on the run. Henry was lovable but I did find his obsession with Alex a bit creepy and too soft for a man like him.

The book was fast paced and a quick read – once you pick it up so much happens that the action completely takes over the story.

Re-Cap
Alex is on the run from an ex boyfriend who only used her for her talent in art appraisals. After he didn’t need her anymore – she was on the list to be killed. Able to escape, Alex ends up hiding in the home of Professor Henry Chilton who instantly is attracted and vows to help her. Alex ends up risking her own life and secrets to help Henry get back a stolen painting.

 
Reason for Reading – Blog Tour

Story Rating – 4 out of 5 Stars

Steam Rating – 3.5 out of 5 Stars

Angst Rating – 4 out of 5 Stars

Writing Rating – 4.5 out of 5 Stars

Content Flow Rating – 4 out of 5 Stars

Told In – Dual POV

Heroine/Personality – Alex is strong and kickass but has trust issues

Heroine/Personality – Henry is a pushover when it comes to Alex but so loyal

HEA (Spoiler) – [spoiler]Yes[/spoiler]

Would Read More from Author? Yes

Recommend To – Readers who like a fast paced, action packed romance 

Book – Consolation (The Consolation Duet #1)

Author – Corinne Michaels
Publication Date – March 18, 2015
Genre – Romance

Type – Part of Series
Cliffhanger - Yes
Rating – 4.25 to 4.5 out of 5 Stars

Complimentary Copy generously provided for Blog Tour in exchange for an honest review.

Synopsis

Book One in the Consolation Duet

Liam wasn’t supposed to be my happily ever after.
He wasn’t even on my radar.
He was my husband’s best friend—forbidden.

But my husband is dead and I’m alone. I ache for him and I reach for Liam.

One night with Liam changed everything. Now I have to decide if I truly love him or if he’s just the consolation prize.

My Thoughts - Story
In the beginning I was a bit overwhelmed with all the talk of death and the constant memories of Aaron, but as the story progressed and we got more into the story of Lee and Liam – that is when this book did a complete turn around. Also finding out that Aaron wasn’t all he was cracked up to be – at times annoyed me, pissed me off and it got to be a bit too much. 

Now Liam on the other hand…I loved everything he did – his loyalty, faithfulness, patience and damn – just about everything with that man.

What really kicked me over the edge and has me hanging by thread is the ending. I have to be honest and kind of thought it a possibility but shit…it still took me by surprise.

This was a great first book I have read from this author and I have a big feeling it won’t be my last.

Re-Cap
Lee is pregnant and after a routine operation her husband is on – she finds out that he perished overseas. Instantly turning into a single mom of a newborn, she at first shuts herself off for 6 months but with the help of her husband’s best friend, she learns to laugh again.

Innocent friendship turns into so much more and a new romance blossoms. Lee also has to deal with a flood of secrets from the past where Liam is right by her side for support.

Just as things start to take off and the “L” word is shared – Lee is…..

Nope – Yeah – Fucking A

 
Reason for Reading – Blog Tour

Story Rating – 4.5 out of 5 Stars

Steam Rating – 3.5 out of 5 Stars

Angst Rating – 4.5 out of 5 Stars

Writing Rating – 4.5 out of 5 Stars

Content Flow Rating – 4 out of 5 Stars

Told In – Dual POV

Heroine/Personality – Lee is strong and dealing with a bunch of shit – perfect heroine

Heroine/Personality – Liam is perfect in every way – he is patient, he loves with his whole soul and is just perfect

HEA (Spoiler) – Don’t know yet…Ended on cliffhanger

Would Read More from Author? Yes

Recommend To – Readers who like a lot of angst and sorrow to turn into happiness.