Review: Bound to the Bachelor

Bound to the Bachelor

Author: Sarah Mayberry
Series: Montana Born Bachelor Auction, #1
Genre: Romance
Publisher: Tule Publishing
Publication Date: February 20 2015
Source: NetGalley
Goodreads | Amazon

Rating: ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥

Your date with Marietta local Beau Bennett includes a day on the slopes at Big Sky Resort, complete with a sumptuous meal in the Resort’s fanciest fine dining restaurant and door-to-door transport. Dig deep to secure the attentions of one of Montana’s most eligible – and elusive – bachelors.

Lily Taylor knows Beau Bennett dislikes her, but that won’t stop her from asking him to volunteer for the Bachelor Auction she’s organized to help her friend Molly provide for her tragically injured son, Josh. If Beau’s gorgeous face, piercing blue eyes and chiseled body inspires the women of Marietta to dig into their pockets for a good cause, then Lily will do whatever it takes to secure his participation.

Beau Bennett isn’t sure how he wound up on the auction block being eyed up by hundreds of eager women, but he knows who to blame for it – Lily Taylor, the sexy, distracting, off-limits best friend of his kid sister. As far as he’s concerned, the sooner this nightmare is over, the better.

The last thing either of them expects is for Lily to wind up bidding on – and winning – Beau, or that their date will lead to Beau stepping in to save Lily when her past comes back to haunt her. As Beau does his best to keep Lily safe, they discover that maybe they don’t dislike each other quite as much as they thought.

In fact, maybe it’s just the opposite…

Opening Lines

Go in there, ask the question, deal with his answer. Easy peasy.

Or so she thought! Now THIS was an enjoyable read!

This was my first time reading anything published by Tule, and I will definitely be adding them to my list of favourite publishers on NetGalley. This was a quick read (only 184 pages) that left me wanting more! I found Bound to the Bachelor to be such a refreshing read. It was realistic, cute, funny, and had elements that I just didn't see coming! There were so many moments that had me smiling and giggling. And the attraction between Lily Taylor and Beau Bennett...WOWZERS!!

His hand lay palm up on the table between them, waiting for hers. Feeling ridiculously nervous, she reached out and set her hand in his. His gaze pinned to her face, he turned her hand over, his thumb sliding sensually across her palm. A jolt of electric awareness raced up her arm and through her body, setting off fireworks in places that hadn’t seen a man in more than a year.
“That’s why I keep my distance,” he said, his voice very deep.

Lily and Beau were quite the pair! Beau is just hot. Poor guy has been walking a thin line trying to keep Lily at a distance, and it ain't easy fighting that kind of attraction! I loved Beau from beginning to end, there wasn't a moment that I found him to be that "annoying hero" type. He's just PERFECT. Now Lily just thinks Beau hates her and that's why he keeps his distance, boy oh boy was she ever wrong! I automatically loved Lily, she's the kind of girl I want as my best friend! My heart broke when we learn about her past and the horrible things she's had to endure, but she doesn't let it ruin her! She's a strong character that has a lot of sassy :).

While there wasn't anything I necessarily hated about Bound to the Bachelor there was only one thing that I wasn’t too impressed with. I felt like Lily and Beau's relationship quickly turned into insta-love. There has always been a intense attraction between Lily and Beau but I felt like the last chapter/ending wasn’t well developed in terms of their relationship.

One bachelor down, 5 more to go!! 

Challenge: NetGalley & Edelweiss Reading Challenge

Review: Forgive Me

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Forgive Me

Author: Eliza Freed
Series: Lost Souls, #1
Genre: New Adult, Contemporary
Publisher: Forever Yours
Publication Date:
Format: ebook
Pages: 280
Source: Good Choice Reading Blog Tours
Purchase: Amazon | B&N | iBooks | Kobo

Rating: ★★★★ . 5

When two lost souls find each other, are they still lost?

Charlotte O'Brien is lost in the devastation of her parents' death. With her foundation in ruins, she buries herself in an unlikely lover, Jason Leer.

When they're together it's everything, but when they're apart it's utterly frustrating. Can love survive when distance is measured in more than just miles?

Forgive Me is the first book in The Lost Souls Series.

(Goodreads)

Lost Souls series

Opening Lines

"My foot will bleed soon. Judging by the familiar curve in the road, I'm still at least two miles from home. Of course I end up walking home the night I'm wearing great shoes. The pain shoots through my heels as the clouds flash with lightning in the dark sky.

**WARNING: CAPS WILL BE USED**

Where do I even begin with this review? I don't even know. I read Forgive Me a couple of days ago now and I'm still trying to get my thoughts and emotions in check, thanks Eliza Freed. The minute I read the first page I was hooked. This author has a way with words, and boy does she know how to tell a story. Her description of the thunderstorm alone had me captivated, I couldn't put this down and I'm happy I finished it in one sitting. Well, happy might be a stretch of a word because I know for sure my heart, head, eyes, nose and throat are not happy with all the ugly crying and struggling to breathe. But what did I expect? Well I knew I was signing myself up for a contemporary new-adult read, but what I didn't expect was how much of an emotional roller coaster this was going to be and how much of me was going to be left sitting here with tears streaming down my face.

I know I probably sound like a broken record but this book broke my heart into tiny little pieces. I cried, I laughed, I got angry, and then I cried some more. And by the end of it all I felt like Forgive Me basically just sat there laughed at me and said "Well hey, now you have to wait until February." Seriously!? FEBRUARY?! GIVE ME THE NEXT BOOK NOW!!! Please? Pretty, pretty please with a fat juicy cherry on top? 

Charlotte is by far one a new favourite character. She's a fictional character but everything about her felt real. It takes a serious amount of talent to breathe life into your characters and Eliza Freed did that. I felt so connected to Charlotte it was almost frightening. She's been through so much and all I wanted to do was hug her. As much as I'm not a huge fan of Jason, since he can be a jerk from time to time, I really enjoyed the dynamics of their relationship. We see their long distance relationship put to the test and just when I thought everything was going to be okay, everything got flipped upside down and around! I wasn't expecting the religious aspect to things, and at first I was hesitant on how much of it would be used throughout Forgive Me. Why? Because I'm in a questionable state with my religion at the moment. But Eliza makes it work, she ties in everything and makes it alright to question your faith, love, humanity, and life itself.

What Kept Forgive Me from getting 5 stars?

Can I say the ending? No? Damn. Well then...

---

Overall, I can't express enough how heartbreaking and beautiful Forgive Me was! I only wish I didn't have to wait until February for Redeem Me, I know it's less than 3 months away but for me that's 3 months too long! Do I recommend picking Forgive Me up? Yes, I can't even express how much I want people to read it! This is seriously an underrated book that more people need to read! If you enjoy reading new adult, contemporaries, romance, a book with substance and that will make you feel things then pick this up. But you can't say I didn't warn you...

Giveaway!

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About the Author

Eliza Freed graduated from Rutgers University and returned to her hometown in rural South Jersey. Her mother encouraged her to take some time and find herself. After three months of searching, she began to bounce checks and her neighbors began to talk; her mother told her to find a job.

She settled into Corporate America, learning systems and practices and the bureaucracy that slows them. Eliza quickly discovered her creativity and gift for story telling as a corporate trainer and spent years perfecting her presentation skills and studying diversity. It’s during this time she became an avid observer of the characters we meet and the heartaches we endure. Her years of study have taught her laughter is the key to survival, even when it’s completely inappropriate.

She currently lives in New Jersey with her family and a misbehaving beagle named Odin. An avid swimmer, if Eliza is not with her family and friends, she’d rather be underwater. While she enjoys many genres, she has always been a sucker for a love story…the more screwed up the better.

Website | Goodreads | Facebook | Twitter | Google+ | Pinterest

Hosted by Good Choice Reading Blog Tours

ARC Review: The Hit List

The Hit List

Author: Nikki Urang
Genre: New Adult, Contemporary, Romance
Publisher: Spencer Hill Contemporary
Publication Date: November 11 2014
Format: ebook
Pages: 203
Source: NetGalley
Purchase: Amazon | B&N | iBooks | Kobo
Book Depository | Books-A-Million
IndieBound | Wal-Mart

Rating: ★★★★ . 5

The Los Angeles Conservatory for the Arts is supposed to be a new beginning for Sadie Bryant. Moving across the country is exactly what she needs to escape the gossip surrounding her injury, the devastating betrayal of her ex-partner, and to rebuild her career as a solo dancer.

When the school announces that the annual Fall Showcase, a performance that secures a spot studying in London, will now require each dancer to have a partner, Sadie’s fresh start is a nightmare. Now she has to dance with Luke Morrison, the school womanizer with a big ego. Sadie doesn’t know how to trust Luke enough to dance with him after her last partner left her broken, but Luke is determined to change that.

Then, The Hit List comes out. A game of sexual conquest where guys get points for all the girls they hook up with—and it seems like every guy at the school is playing.

The girl worth the most points? Sadie. (Goodreads)

**I received an advanced copy from the publisher, via NetGalley, in exchange for an honest review. All quotes taken from a pre-published copy may be altered or omitted from the final version.**

Opening Lines

"I never should've agreed to do that stupid article. I shove the magazine back onto the shelf and pull another magazine over the top to partially cover it. Not that it will do any good. The bright red letters of the "Jete" in Jete Magazine are recognizable to half the students here. It's probably the most popular magazine at out little campus book store. Even hidden, my naive happiness taunts me from the glossy page."

I used to dance, a lot. I didn't really focus hard on ballet, but more so jazz, hip-hop, tap and I even tried my hand at lyrical. I loved dancing, there is just something about letting your body tell a story and how elegant and graceful one can be that I just find it to be so captivating and simply beautiful. Unfortunately, I had a injury that required me to quit dance. It was a sad time in my life, but I took some years off and discovered cheerleading, but my love for dance has never gone away.

When I first came across The Hit List I knew I had to have it. I mean have you seen that cover? Her position is beautiful! Looking at the cover and reading the synopsis made me Youtube So You Think You Can Dance? videos and clips from Centre Stage. Having been a dancer and the fact I have dealt with an injury I knew I would be able to connect with Sadie. That being said, you do not have to be a dancer or know everything or anything about dance to be able to enjoy this book! This just helped me connect with Sadie more. I finished The Hit List in two sittings, it was fast paced and I was so excited and curious to see how this would come to an end. I also really enjoyed the writing style, it was well-written and didn't feel forced. Nikki Urang's descriptions were perfect, I felt like I was actually in the room watching them dance!

"I'm fine. Just a little stressed."
"I hear sex helps reduce stress."
Jesus Christ. Of course he would know that my name is back on The Hit List. I hold up my hand. "I'm not interested. So stop. Stop with the lingering touches. Stop with the sexual remarks. Just stop."

I loved that not every character was perfect, there were characters that I really just wanted to kick (and that's putting it nicely). I loved how strong Sadie became throughout this book, she really learned to speak out and stand up for herself. And Luke, well Luke had his moments. We're introduced to so many great characters that I just didn't want to say goodbye to! This would have been perfect as a series, it book focusing on a different character or two.

This wasn't exactly sexual read, but you can definitely feel the sexual tension between Luke and Sadie. I really enjoyed seeing them evolve throughout this book. I will say though, I thought their romance would be extremely predictable...it wasn't. There was a certain about about 20 or so chapters in that had me sitting here reading screaming "NO!!!!". But everything turned out well in the end. So does this have a HEA kind of ending? Yep!

What kept The Hit List from getting 5 stars?

Very minor, but this was something that bothered me after a little while. I found Sadie to be a tad bit too whinny at times, I completely understand her injury and the betrayal she felt thanks to Patrick but I felt she went on and on complaining about it. This also made it hard to picture her as New Adult character, I wanted her to be more mature and accept what happened and move on faster.


Overall, I found The Hit List to be a great debut read! This book has made me dig up my copy of Centre Stage and re-watch it. This is definitely a book I will be re-reading again sometime soon, I only wish that it was a series instead of a standalone. Would I recommend The Hist List? Yes! Have you seen the two teasers I included? Doesn't think make you curious? If so, pick up this book!

Giveaway

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About the Author

Nikki fell in love with books at a young age and looked forward to reading a book with her mom before bed every night. It was only a matter of time until her love of reading turned into a love of putting those words onto the page. Now, her days are spent helping those overcoming opiate addiction and her nights are spent writing. She lives in Minnesota with her husband and two stubborn cats.

Links: Website | Goodreads | Twitter | Facebook | Tumblr | Pinterest

FULL SCHEDULE

November 6 - A Perfection Called Books (guest post), Oops! I Read A Book Again (excerpt)

November 7 - Lost in Ever After (guest post)

November 8 - Zili in the Sky (guest post), Kimberlyfaye Reads (review)

November 9 - Met in Eleven (interview), Bookish Wanderlove (review)

November 10 - Refreshingly Riki (review), The Cover Contessa (guest post)

November 11 - RELEASE DAY BLITZ

November 12 - Beauty and the Bookshelf (interview), FicWishes (review)

November 13 - Fly to Fiction (review), Curling Up With A Good Book (interview)

November 14 - Live To Read ~Krystal (review), Bumbles and Fairy-Tales (interview)

Thank you Spencer Hill Contemporary!!

Review: To Defy a Sheikh

To Defy a Sheikh

Author: Maisey Yates
Genre: Romance
Publisher: Harlequin Presents
Publication Date: Oct. 21st, 2014
November 1st, 2014
Format: ebook
Pages: 190
Source: NetGalley
Purchase: Amazon | B&N | iTunes | Kobo

Rating: ★★★

The cost of defiance

Princess Samarah Al-Azem knows you cannot rush revenge. Having bided her time, she's finally ready to bring down Ferran, her kingdom's enemy and the man who took everything from her. In the still of night, she lies in wait in his bedchamber….

It isn't the first time Sheikh Ferran has found himself at the edge of an assassin's blade…but never has it been wielded by such a beautiful assailant. Soon he has her at his mercy—something he's wanted for years!

Now Samarah must decide: imprisonment in a cell…or in diamond shackles as his wife. (Goodreads)

Opening Lines

"Sheikh Ferran Bashar, ruler of Khadra, would not survive the night. He didn't know it yet, but it was true."

Majority of the stars for To Defy a Sheikh come from the fact that I read this in one sitting. I was curious to see what Ferran was hiding and how Samarah would react, and when they would finally realize that they were in love with each other. I did really enjoy the development between Ferran and Samarah. There were some pretty intense scenes between Ferran and Samarah that had me fanning myself,

What kept To Defy a Sheikh from getting 5 stars?

The constant back and forth with Samarah coming to terms with her feelings and the situation with Ferran. Towards the start of the book it made sense for Samarah to be conflicted and not know if she can trust Ferran and what her attraction to him means. She's new to all this and has been surviving on her own for awhile now. But after awhile it got tiring and annoying and just wasn't applicable anymore. It was a constant back and forth that could have been written better.

Another reason, Ferran admits to something that he did, something that Samarah should know before they get married. I loved Ferran for being honest about this, sure he didn't tell her right away but he did tell her eventually. Her response? Sex. I'm sorry, WHAT!? This was completely unrealistic in so many ways. Sex should be the last thing on her mind with the information that Ferran shared and it made me strongly dislike Samarah's character and Maisey Yates' use of sex to divert the issue.

Lastly, Samarah's need for revenge. It took WAY too long for her to realize that she was no better than her father by seeking revenge. Her hardness made it impossible for me to connect with her character. Overall, To Defy a Sheikh was an okay read that just didn't really work for me. It had some intense scenes with an obvious display of chemistry between Ferran and Samarah, but that was about it. I recommend this to those that like romance novels.

Review: Resist

Resist

Author: Lilly Avalon
Series: Resist, #1
Genre: Romance, Erotica
Publisher: Lilly Avalon
Publication Date: Aug 26 2014
Format: ebook
Pages: 68
Source: NetGalley
Purchase: Amazon | B&N

Rating: ★★★. 5

Allegra Maxwell is sick of the monotony of life. It's all work and no play, and right now she wants to play. She shows up at her company's yearly meeting with one goal in mind: have a one night stand with a stranger. What she doesn't count on is Devlin Pierce walking through the door.

When Allegra first met Devlin, she knew he would be nothing but trouble. After he proved her theory true last year, she made a vow to avoid him at all costs. He's the last person she wants to see, and he knows it. He refuses to leave her alone though. As much as she tries to fight it, the pull he has on her is undeniable. Her ability to resist him proves impossible when Devlin makes her an offer she can't refuse.

One night. That's all he asks. That's all she wants. Or is it?
*Resist is a 21,000 word erotica novella, and the first of a two book series* (Goodreads)

Opening Lines

"This is a mistake.
Not pairing the silver stilettos with y brand new blue dress-no, that was genius. The mistake is coming here tonight when I should have stayed in my hotel room. It's not like I couldn't come up with a believable excuse. I'm relatively good under pressure. Not to mention the fact that lounging in nothing but a robe and watching from my window as the sun sets behind the Manhattan skyline sounded exceptionally better."

I have been wanting and waiting to read Resist for awhile now. When I came across it on NetGalley I automatically requested it but it sat there pending for weeks! When I finally received the notification that I'd been approved I downloaded it immediately and started reading. The Good? This book kept me intrigued, I didn't want to put it down and ended up finishing it in one sitting. Which isn't really hard considering it's a novella and only consist of 68 pages.

"Screw finding The One. I just need one night. That's all I ask, at least for now."

As for characters we have Allegra, she's on a mission and it's to find a complete stranger to have a one-night stand with. She's been successful when it comes to her work life, but hasn't had a relationship in a year. She's okay with looking for "The One" at a later date but she just needs something for the night. I like Allegra as a character, she's witty and had me giggling at a couple different moments throughout this novella. Enter Devlin, oh Devlin...I really liked the way Devlin was portrayed. He wasn't the typical bad boy or jerk that seems to be in almost every romance/new adult novels now a days. Was there chemistry between Allegra and Devlin? Oh for sure!!

"I match his gaze as I place the cheesecake in my mouth, slowly pulling the fork out. I lick my lips seductively, never looking away. He stiffens in his seat, leaning forward slightly. I toss him a quick wink and go for the last bite. After I use my forefinger to wipe my mouth clean, I place tin my mouth, licking the remainder of the chocolate off. At this point, his formerly open hand has turned into a fist. I'm getting to him. This makes me smile in victory."

You can see the attraction between Allegra and Devlin right away, and the chemistry continues to build until Allegra can't say no anymore and gives into what she really wants. I went into this knowing that it was going to be a two book series, which meant I knew I wouldn't get the ending of I wanted from Resist. But seriously?! That ending is not what I expected or wanted!!! I mean it's a good ending but it's a cliffhanger that has me wanting the next book in my hands, like NOW! Damn Cliffhangers.

So why didn't I give Resist 5 stars??

"Wait a second. Where am I? Because I could've sworn the last time I saw you, I told you to go to hell."

He frowns. "Come on, Allegra. You can't still be mad at me." I'd believe he is truly upset if it weren't for the puppy dog eyes he's giving me.

"You expect me to just let it go like that?" I snap my fingers.

I don't know what I really expected but I thought that whatever it was that happened between Devlin and Allegra was something major, I was disappointed when we learn what really happened a year ago. Basically they finally meet, flirt it up and have some intense eye contact but there was nothing concrete, no status per say. I mean it's clear there was an attraction but I'm not sure if what happened that night really justifies or lines up with Allegra's reaction to seeing him again.

"Goodbye, New York," I whisper. "Hello, next chapter."

Overall, Resist was a great read that kept my attention from beginning to end! Now I'm sitting here impatiently waiting for Longing which is the sequel to Resist and it's going to be a full length novel! WOOT!!

Review: A Blind Spot for Boys

A Blind Spot for Boys

Author: Justina Chen
Series: Standalone
Genre: YA, Contemporary, Romance
Publisher: Little, Brown Books for Young Readers
Publication Date: August 12th, 2014
Format: ebook
Pages: 246
Source: NetGalley
Purchase: Amazon | B&N | iBooks
Chapters | Book Depository | Kobo

Rating:★★★★

Shana has always had a blind spot for boys. Can she trust the one who's right in front of her?

Sixteen-year-old Shana Wilde is officially on a Boy Moratorium. After a devastating breakup, she decides it's time to end the plague of Mr. Wrong, Wrong, and More Wrong.

Enter Quattro, the undeniably cute lacrosse player who slams into Shana one morning in Seattle. Sparks don't just fly; they ignite. And so does Shana's interest. Right as she's about to rethink her ban on boys, she receives crushing news: Her dad is going blind. Quattro is quickly forgotten, and Shana and her parents vow to make the most of the time her father has left to see. So they travel to Machu Picchu, and as they begin their trek, they run into none other than Quattro himself. But even as the trip unites them, Quattro pulls away mysteriously... Love and loss, humor and heartbreak collide in this new novel from acclaimed author Justina Chen. (Goodreads)

Opening Lines

"If you want to see the world with fresh eyes, haul yourself off to the Gum Wall in Pike Place Market. At least that's what Dad said twelve years ago when he brought me to the brick wall studded with spat-out, stretched-thin, and air-hardened wads of gum. Thousands of pieces. Hundreds of thousands."

The Good

A Blind Spot for Boys first caught my eye about a month ago when Shane @ Itching for Books had it as her WoW pick. I instantly added it on Goodreads and than while browsing through upcoming blog tours IndieSage PR had it listed!! Talk about perfect timing :).

I haven't read anything by Justina Chen so I wasn't really sure how what to expect. This was my first time reading a book set in Machu Piccu. I'm not sure if there are many books out set in Peru but I was so interested in the setting that I actually did some googling to find out what Machu Piccu was really like. A Blind Spot for Boys started off really slow for me, I was a little that I wouldn't be able to get into the story but luckily it picks up a couple of chapters in when we find out about Shana's dad going blind. 

Justina Chen did an excellent job at writing a story that would make you stop and think. While many might read this purely for romance there's so much more to this novel than that. It mostly focuses on both Shana and Quattro dealing with personal things and the overall outlook on life that you just really have no idea what the future holds. I'm not sure if it was suppose to be A Blind Spot for Boys just pulled so many different emotions from me!

Lasting Impression

Overall, A Blind Spot for Boys was beautifully written and a touching read! A perfect summer read that really makes you think about the way we live our lives. I can't wait to read more from Justina Chen in the future!

Giveaway!

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Excerpt

He pressed me back against the tree, his hands protecting me from the rough bark, and deepened the kiss. And then just as suddenly, he lifted his lips, both of us breathing hard, as we stared at each other.
“What happened to starting college without any ties?” I asked. I had to know.
“Ancient history.”
“Prehistoric?”
“Mesozoic.”
I smiled pleased. He grinned, even more pleased.
The rushing in my head when he kissed me a second time, then a third had little to do with altitude. Not that I would ever tell him. Boys, bravado, egos, and all that.

About the Author

Justina Chen is an award-winning novelist for young adults whose books include A Blind Spot for Boys, Return to Me, and North of Beautiful (a Best Book of the Year by Kirkus and Barnes & Noble). Her other novels are Girl Overboard (a Junior Library Guild premiere selections) and Nothing but the Truth (and a few white lies), which won the Asian Pacific American Award for Literature.

A passionate advocate of teen advocacy, Justina co-founded readergirlz, a cutting-edge literacy and social media project for teens, which won the National Book Foundation’s Prize for Innovations in Reading.

When she isn’t writing for teens, Justina is an executive communications strategista. That’s a fancy way of saying that she helps leaders tell their stories at companies like Disney and AT+T, NASDAQ and Microsoft. What she enjoys best is trekking the world with her two compadres, her teen kids.

Website • Twitter • Facebook • Goodreads

Review: Without You Here (Release Day Blitz)

Without You Here

Author: Carter Ashby
Series: Standalone
Genre: Contemporary Romance
Publisher:
Publication Date: September 9, 2014
Format: ebook
Pages: 306
Source: Book Enthusiast Promotions & NetGalley
Purchase: Amazon

Rating: ★★★.5

After fighting with her boyfriend, Ettie’s only goal is to drown her sorrows in some Jack Daniels. But when she walks into a country tavern, her attention is immediately redirected to the sexy, older man at the bar. He looks lonely, and sad, and absolutely mouth-watering. Ettie can’t wait to put a smile on his face.

For the first time in two years, Wyatt finds himself jolted out of his grief—and by a spunky, vivacious young woman who somehow sees right into his soul. What follows is a passionate weekend full of more life, laughter, and pure joy than he experienced in twenty years of marriage.

Wyatt thought one weekend was all he had to give, yet in the days that follow, he can’t help dreaming up a future with Ettie. And then a chance meeting shatters his hopes, leaving him more lost than ever. Now Ettie must decide whether to walk away, or to fight for the love she knows they both deserve.

Without You Here is the sexy, heartwarming story of overcoming grief, embracing love, and learning to live in the moment. (Goodreads)

Opening Lines

"I guess that phrase "looking for trouble" applied to me that night. I'd just fought with my boyfriend. I was fed up with him, in fact. He was a fantastic friend, but whenever we tried to date he turned into...my grandmother. You never met such a prude in all you days."

The Good

I was definitely intrigued when I first read the synopsis for Without You Here. I really want to know what the "chance meeting" was that shatter things between Ettie and Wyatt, and what happened the night he met, and what about her boyfriend? All these questions were answer when I finally dove into Without You Here.

My favourite thing about Without You Here would have to be the age difference between Ettie and Wyatt. For me it made the story that much more interesting. Not that the story was lacking, there were enough plot twist to keep my on my toes and waiting to see what would happen next! I have to say I was slightly disturbed when I found out what the "thing" was the made Ettie and Wyatt's relationship go down a rough road. I wasn't really sure how they would get past this HUGE obstacles and I honestly didn't think it was going to work out, but as the story continues to develop we see that it does.

The chemistry between Ettie and Wyatt is amazing! Ettie really helps Wyatt seek help for his depression and opens his eyes to new possibilities. Despite the age different, and a major bump in the road Ettie and Wyatt come out strong on top.

The In-Between

I would have liked more information into Ettie's past. We get a little sneak peek into it, but I felt like there was a lot more that could have been shared with the readers.

Lasting Impression

Overall, Without You Here was a great contemporary read. Carter Ashby is definitely an author I'll be keeping an eye out for. I recommend Without You Here for readers who love contemporary and want to read a book that will pull at your emotions.

About Author

Carter Ashby was born and raised in Missouri. She is wife to a supportive, hard-working geek; homeschooling mother to three, future social miscreants; and caregiver to a high-strung, epileptic chihuahua and a severely accident-prone hound dog. Carter writes country romances and reads anything that sounds interesting.

Links: Website | Goodreads | Twitter | Facebook

Excerpt

He didn't look up at me when he spoke. He was sopping up hollandaise sauce with a biscuit. "We should do this again, Ettie. Next weekend. How about it?"

My heart was suddenly thundering in my ears. I watched him as he pointedly focused on cleaning his plate. "Are you asking me to be your girlfriend?" I asked.

He finally looked up. Those blue eyes were hypnotic. And heartbreaking. "I'm asking you to have another fun weekend with me. That's what I'm asking."

My eyes fluttered as they started to sting. "Do you need to get to know me better before asking me to be your girlfriend?"

His jaw muscles tensed. "Ettie, I..."

"Look, Wyatt. I have had just the absolute best time of my life with you this weekend. I have all the information I need to know I want to be in a relationship with you."

He snorted and leaned back in his chair. "You don't know shit about me, Ettie. This was fun. But it was superficial and you know it."

My chest constricted. I had to take a moment to swallow back the pain. "It wasn't superficial. I'm sorry it didn't mean as much to you as it did to me..."

"It meant plenty and that's why I want to see you again. So let's do it, Ettie. Next weekend. We'll meet at the bar Friday and maybe we could road trip down to Gulf Shores or something. Or we could go zip-lining up at Cave City. All kinds of fun shit we could do together. That's what I want."

"I want to go home with you."

He looked away and shook his head in frustration.

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Review: Stealing the Groom (Stealing the Heart, #1)

Stealing the Groom

Author: Sonya Weiss
Series: Stealing the Heart, #1
Genre: Women's Fiction, Chick-Lit, Romance
Publisher: Entangled Publishing - Bliss
Publication Date: March 10th, 2014
Format: PDF, ebook
Pages: 221
Source: NetGalley
Purchase: Amazon | B&N | iBooks | Kobo

Rating: ★★★★★

Friends don’t let friends marry the wrong woman…

Chad Walker may be a take-no-chances man with a plan, but there’s no way Amelia Snyder is going to let her best bud marry Mean Girl #1—even if the wedding is solely so he can secure the controlling shares in his family’s company. But free-spirited Amelia’s at-the-altar groomnapping scheme takes a surprising turn when she ends up as the blushing bride instead.

Suddenly, with Amelia living in her handsome husband’s home—in his bedroom, no less—she starts to reconsider their strictly platonic arrangement. But Chad’s always been anti-risk and definitely anti-love, and betting a lifetime of best friendship on the chance at forever might be the biggest gamble of all. (Goodreads)

First Impression

I can just tell that this is going to be a funny read! This reminds me of Maid of Honour and Runaway Bride!

Opening Lines

“For the last time, you can’t steal a man!”

“Chad is my best friend—it’s not the same as stealing,”

Amelia Snyder whispered in response to her sister Ann’s

warning. Besides, how was she supposed to steal the groom

if he never showed?

The Good

I originally read Stealing the Groom back in July and it's taken me this long to write a full review, tisk tisk! For some reason there just isn't a whole lot for me to say about this book other than for the fact that I loved it to pieces! This was available in PDF format on my computer from NetGalley but I started it and then had to leave my house to run errands. Before I left I went back on NetGalley to re-download it for kindle so that I could read it on my phone. I went back and forth between the two until I finished it, I loved it that much that I just didn't want to be without the chance to read it! I couldn't think of one bad thing about it so 5 stars it is!! I only hope that my review makes sense!

Characters - I don't think there was a single character that I didn't like throughout this novel. When new characters were being introduced I never once felt like a character was being used as a filler, every character pulled and held their weight. Amelia is without a doubt my favourite character, she's hilarious, dramatic, impulsive, and just amazing!

I really liked how Sonya Weiss focused on Amelia's sisters, Abby and Ann. After the teaser we got of each of them and the guys who obviously had feelings for them I kept my fingers cross that they would each have their own books and I'm so happy that they will!!

Romance - I loved how oblivious both Amelia and Chad were to what was really happening between them. And once they both realized that they had "more than just friends" feelings for each other, each tried to rationalize why it was a bad idea. But you can't resist that kind of chemistry forever, sooner or later it was bound to burst.

Lasting Impression

Overall, Stealing the Groom was hilarious! This is the kind of book that should be made into a movie, something I can picture on Lifetime or something. It had romance, humour, great characters and character development and was just all around a perfect read for me! Definitely one of my favourite reads for 2014!

Thank for stopping by!

SNEAK PEEK Review: Atlantia

Atlantia

Author: Ally Condie
Series: Series (?)
Genre: YA, Fantasy
Publisher: Dutton Juvenile (Penguin)
Publication Date: October 28th, 2014
Format: ebook
Pages: 48
Source: NetGalley

Rating: ★★★★

The first 42 pages are available on NetGalley as a sneak peak.

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Can you hear Atlantia breathing?

For as long as she can remember, Rio has dreamt of the sand and sky Above—of life beyond her underwater city of Atlantia. But in a single moment, all her plans for the future are thwarted when her twin sister, Bay, makes an unexpected decision, stranding Rio Below. Alone, ripped away from the last person who knew Rio’s true self—and the powerful siren voice she has long hidden—she has nothing left to lose.

Guided by a dangerous and unlikely mentor, Rio formulates a plan that leads to increasingly treacherous questions about her mother’s death, her own destiny, and the complex system constructed to govern the divide between land and sea. Her life and her city depend on Rio to listen to the voices of the past and to speak long-hidden truths. (Goodreads)

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I received this Sneak Peek from NetGalley via Penguin Young Readers Group (Dutton Juvenile) in exchange for an honest review. All quotes are taken from a pre-published copy and may be altered or removed from the final version.

First Impression

THAT COVER!! It's so pretty, oh so pretty! I haven't read the Matched series by Ally Condie, so this will be my first Ally Condie read. After reading the summary I became extremely curious to see how this would all play out since I feel this is a mermaid book. 

Opening Lines

"My twin sister, Bay, and I pass underneath the brown-and-turquoise banners hanging from the ceiling of the temple. Dignitaries perch on their chairs in the gallery, watching, and people crowd the pews in the nave."

Short & Sweet

Seeing as this is just a Sneak Peek, this will be a very brief review!

"The pillow is wet from my tears. Perhaps I should try to catch them in a bowl and give them to the priests to use for those who decide to spend their lives down here in the dark Below. We'll all weep and bless each other, those of us too scared or too stupid or too late to try a life Above."

I'm conflicted between 3.5 stars and 4 stars...

I found the first chapter to be way too descriptive and at times very hard to follow. Because of this I wasn't sure if I would actually be interested in reading the full book, but once I got halfway through chapter 2 and onto chapter 3 I knew for sure I would read the full thing. Atlantia really starts to pick up halfway through chapter 2, and we are introduced to two (what I predict to be) very interesting characters. I just hope that Atlantia keeps up with the well created plot that has formulated so far and doesn't fall flat. Also, I noticed that this is labelled as a dystopian novel on Goodreads (which makes sense) but this genre has never really worked out for me. This may finally be the book that gets me to love dystopian books!

Lasting Impression

Overall, Atlantia seems like a promising read! I'm very excited and impatient about it being released in October because now I can't wait to read and find out what happens next!

Thanks for stopping by!

Review: Engaged at the Chatsfield

Engaged at the Chatsfield

Author: Melanie Milburne
Series: The Chatsfield, #0.5
Genre: Romance, Contemporary
Publisher: Harlequin
Publication Date: May 1st, 2014
Format: ebook
Pages: 67
Source: iBooks / NetGalley
Purchase: Amazon | B&N | Kobo | iBooks

Synopsis (Goodreads):

Introducing The Chatsfield in this fantastic prequel, USA TODAY bestselling author Melanie Milburne invites you to step inside the world's most exclusive luxury hotel empire!

Where secrets lurk behind every door… A whisper, a rumor, a scandal! Glitz, luxury and decadence—Juliet Montague should be having the time of her life. Her friend's hen party is being held at the extravagant Chatsfield Hotel, London, but when she is surrounded by perfect, ultra-stylish women, each with rings on their fingers, a fake fiancé seems her only defense. Until that very same fake fiancé arrives at the party! Now she must persuade Marcus Bainbridge, her older brother's gorgeous best friend, not to give the game away. But as the charade deepens, will the lines between what's real and what's fantasy start to blur?

Welcome to The Chatsfield, London! 
Collect all 8 fantastic titles May – December 2014

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First Impression

I actually first came across Engaged at The Chatsfield while scrolling for new books on iBooks one night. After reading the synopsis I knew this was going to be a book I would love! Two nights later I was on NetGalley and came across the same book! I automatically requested it knowing I would love it and would want to share my review.

Opening Lines

"How many calories are there in a caramel-swirl cupcake? Juliet typed into her smartphone on the way to the Chatsfield Hotel for a hen's party hight tea."

The Good

 

Engaged at the Chatsfield is a prequel in The Chatsfield series and while others may complain it's too short I actually highly enjoyed it. Melanie Milburne had me laughing many times while reading it. I think part of the reason why I enjoyed this so much is I pictured it as a movie, a chic-flick that you would catch on TV. 

'Juliet?'
It was as if an invisible wall had come down in front of her. She stopped dead. Froze. Then she slowly turned to face him. For a moment her face was as white as the polka dots on her cute retro dress, but then her cheeks went as cherry-red as the background fabric. 'M-Marcus?' Her voice came out like a squeak.

Poor Juliet. She told a lie that completely snowballed out of control! Enter Marcus Bainbridge, good looking but always manages to say the wrong thing. I found the banter between them to be very entertaining. The development between Marcus and Juliet was well laid out, Marcus was trying hard not to cross the line while Juliet was basically instigating for him to give up control and accept the connection between them. With all the reason for Marcus not to give in he finally has a breakthrough of just how much Juliet means to him, I only wish that part was stretched out a bit more.

"Just because I'm not a size zero doesn't mean I can't find a man. If I wanted to I could go right out there now and hook up with someone.'
'Not while you're wearing my ring, you won't.'
She swivelled back to look at him archly. 'It's not your ring, remember?'
Marcus scooped up his wallet and phone off the writing desk. 'No, but it soon will be.'

  

The Bad / The In-Between

• Nothing

Lasting Impression

Overall, Engaged at The Chatsfield was a hilarious and entertaining read! I couldn't stop giggling and I loved the development between Marcus and Juliet. I'm highly excited and looking forward to this series! Give it a try, what do you have to lose? It's free on Amazon, B&N, Kobo and ibooks! Purchase links can be found above. Do I recommend it? Yes. Would I buy it? Double YES!

 

Review // Lover Unknown

Lover Unknown

Author: Ellie Kincade
Series: Lover Unknown, #1
Genre: Romance, Erotica
Publisher: Ellie Kincade
Publication Date: July 22nd, 2014
Format: ebook
Pages: 34
Source: NetGalley
Purchase: Amazon

Synopsis (NetGalley):

Passion without boundaries.

The freedom of the unknown.

A night you’ll never forget.

Welcome to Club Q.

Hadley has never been one to shy away from a challenge between the sheets, but she’s been craving something she just can’t put her finger on. When a mysterious silver envelope shows up on her desk at work, inviting her to join Club Q, she’s about to get everything she didn’t even know she wanted.

A haven for the rich and beautiful, little is known about Club Q to those not on the list. For Chicago’s elite it means sex unlike anything they had ever experienced before

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First Impression

I was looking for something short & sweet and I came across Lover Unknown. Something about this reminds me of S.E.C.R.E.T. by L. Marie Adeline, but that's probably just me. Either way this still sounds good!

Opening Lines

Attempting to look preoccupied, I twirled the silver envelope through my fingers, willing myself to take that one last step. All I had to do was walk around the corner-off the main strip of city lights, and into a dimly lit alley-and there I was. Club Q.”

The Good

Wait. No. NOO!! That’s it? Do you know how many times I kept clicking on the arrow hoping there would be more? At least one more chapter! There is so much I want to say but it’ll just spoil the story for everyone, so my lips are sealed! This book was Steamy with a capital S! Eight pages in and Ellie Kincade had my body tingling with the description of Hadley getting check! Oh boy. It just kept getting better and hotter and the last chapter I completely didn’t see that coming!

“I felt the unfamiliar body shift behind me as the check continued-this time up the inside of my legs, connecting with every inch of thing. Higher and higher his hands lifted, seemingly in slow motion”

The Bad

• Nothing!

The In-Between

• Zilch.

Lasting Impression

Overall, Lover Unknown was fantastic! Ellie Kincade, as a debut novella you deserve a pat on the back and a round of applause! I need book 2 now! Also, I want to read more about Nina. I know her story would be a good one!

Thanks for stopping by!

Review: The Wicked Confessions of Lady Cecelia Stanton

The Wicked Confessions of Lady Cecelia Stanton  

Author: Viveka Portman
Series: Regency Diaries
Genre: Erotica, Romance, Historical Fiction
Publisher: Escape Publishing
Publication Date: December 1st, 2013
Format: ebook
Pages: 72
Source: NetGalley
Purchase: Amazon | B&N | Kobo

 
When faced with a rakish, lusty husband, what is a proper English wife to do but educate herself in the art of bedplay? “Marriages are strange things, none stranger perhaps than this betwixt me and my lord husband.” Lady Cecelia is married to the dashing and philandering Lord William Stanton, a situation that would distress even the most composed and refined gently-born lady. However, Cecelia has a secret balm to her dissatisfaction: her maid, Bess Miller. Cecelia’s inexperience and William’s insatiable appetites fuel her desire to learn, and Bess is a willing teacher. Then, when Cecelia blossoms into pregnancy and can no longer accommodate William’s needs, he distances himself, and Bess becomes her only solace and comfort — and the channel for her most intimate desires. As Cecelia struggles to understand her own feelings, gossip begins to spread. William starts asking questions, and wicked confessions must be made..

 

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First Impression

This is only 72 pages?! I thought I would be getting a full novel, hopefully Viveka Portman is able to cover all her bases within 72 pages...

Opening Lines

Thursday 17th June 1813 Wiltshire, England.

"I am with child, again. In the unfortunate event I do not recover from this birth, I write my confessions in this diary. I do so in the hope that should word of my most intimate affairs ever become public, then these confessions may give insight t into the reasons behind them."

The Good

Cover - I think the cover for this book is absolutely beautiful! I like the choice of a close up and the colours in the background, very intriguing and eye-catching!

The Bad / The In-Between

The Wicked Confessions of Lady Cecelia Stanton was more focused on sex than historical romance. With how this was described I had expected it to be written in the form of diary entries. However the narration made it hard to follow and it no longer felt like diary entries. 

While Lady Cecelia and Bess were interesting characters there was a lack of a real connection. I do not feel like Viveka Portman successfully described Lady Cecelia’s feelings for Bess much less Bess’ feelings for Lady Cecelia. All she does is state it, but there was no description or building up to Lady Cecelia realizing her feelings for Bess and this bothered me.

And then there’s William, ugh. While he was crude and disloyal all she kept describing was how handsome he was. This description of William made it impossible for me to like him or sympathize for Lady Cecelia’s lack of a backbone. I have no idea what woman would actually be attracted to a man like him.

Lasting Impression

Overall, I felt that The Wicked Confessions of Lady Cecelia Stanton was more of an outline/draft rather than a final copy. This is the second book in a series and I don't think I'll bother to go back and read book 1 or read book 3. 

   

 

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