Monday 16 December 2013

REVIEW+INTERVIEW: Sempre:Redemption by J.M. Darhower


Sempre:Redemption by J.M. Darhower

(Forever Series #2)

Genre: Romantic Suspense

Purchase: Kindle / B&N / iBook



Synopsis:

In this thrilling and sexy follow-up to Sempre, two young lovers struggle to keep their relationship intact after they become deeply enmeshed in the dangerous mafia-run crime ring they once tried to overthrow.

Haven Antonelli and Carmine DeMarco have been through a lot. Haven was taken in by Carmine’s father, and with his family’s help, she escaped a gruesome fate. However, saving Haven from the dark intentions of a mafia family cost Carmine a steep price: he was forced to swear loyalty to them.

Now, still passionately in love, Carmine and Haven must face the fall-out of Carmine’s forced service, as Haven discovers terrifying secrets about the family that enslaved both her and her mother—and why she matters so much in this intricate web of lies.
My Haven and Carmine:


* 5 STARS * Review:



The world of mafia and loyalty to La Famiglia does not mix well with the love and emotions. Will be Carmine and Haven be able to survive the roughness of La Cosa Nostra?

I cried, I swooned, I laughed, I mourned, I was moment from heart attack... This book is pure brilliance and more than worthy sequel to Sempre!

I thought that I couldn't love and admire characters from previous instalment more that I did and I was most certainly wrong. I was inspired by Haven's strenght and ability to go on no matter what. I was fascinated by Carmine's unconditional and selfless love for Haven. I was touched by Vincent's determination to do anything for his loved ones. And I was surprised by my affection towards Corrado and my vehement need to see this deeply flawed man happy and at peace. Without the doubt I can say that Corrado and Carmine are one of the most interesting and fascinating characters ever written!

Nothing is just black and white in this book. There is good in bad people, as well as there is some bad in good people. And some people are purely evil. So whom to trust?

This is not just a love story. This is a message to all readers. Message about redemption and conscience, about honour and determination to live the best under given circumstances.

J.M. Darhower is a master in storytelling. Her characters come alive while you read her story and it is impossible not to be immersed in the world she creates. I love this series and recommend it to EVERYONE from bottom of my heart!

  

Interview With J.M. Darhower:

I was honoured to have a quick chat with J.M. Darhower, here is result:

* It is well known that you are huge fan of Godfather movies. What else inspired you to write Forever series?

It was my fascination with the Mafia and my passion about the subject of human trafficking that inspired the plot of Sempre and Sempre: Redemption. The two subjects have the same sort of themes to them that went together well. I wanted to write a story about love, and sacrifice, and redemption, and freedom… and explore the concept of what it truly means to be free.

* Now a though one. Who and why is your favourite character in Forever series?


Hmmm. I love so many different characters for so many different reasons, but I have to admit the one who gets under my skin the most is Corrado Moretti. I enjoyed writing him and exploring the mind of a character that is darker than most, who does what he does with no apologies (again, it's probably due in part to my Mafia fascination).

* Beside amazing Forever series, I also adore your book Extinguish. Do you prefer writing paranormal or contemporary stories?

I enjoy both, honestly, but I lean toward the contemporary. It feels more natural to me when I'm dealing with humans and exploring their motivations instead of delving into the paranormal and creating the unknown.

* What helps you to concentrate and gets you into the right mood for writing?


Music, usually… the tone of the music tends to influence what I'm writing, so whenever I need to get in a certain mood I just put on a song (the louder, the better).

* What is in store for your fans in the future? What can your readers look forward to?

I have some other stories in the works that I hope to have news about soon, including a new series that I think my readers will enjoy. Can't say much else about it right now except that some awesome things are definitely coming in the new year.

About Author:

JM Darhower is the author of countless stories and poems, most of which only she has ever read. She lives in a tiny town in rural North Carolina, where she churns out more words than will ever see the light of day. She has a deep passion for politics and speaking out against human trafficking, and when she isn't writing (or fangirling about books) she's usually ranting about those things.

Chronic crimper with a vulgar mouth, she admits to having a Twitter addiction. You can usually always find her there. 

CONNECT WITH J.M. DARHOWER:

Friday 13 December 2013

REVIEW: WORLD AFTER BY SUSAN EE


World After by Susan Ee

(Penryn & the End of the Days #2)

Genre: Dystopia/ Urban Fantasy




SYNOPSIS:

In this sequel to the bestselling fantasy thriller, Angelfall, the survivors of the angel apocalypse begin to scrape back together what's left of the modern world.

When a group of people capture Penryn's sister Paige, thinking she's a monster, the situation ends in a massacre. Paige disappears. Humans are terrified. Mom is heartbroken.

Penryn drives through the streets of San Francisco looking for Paige. Why are the streets so empty? Where is everybody? Her search leads her into the heart of the angels' secret plans where she catches a glimpse of their motivations, and learns the horrifying extent to which the angels are willing to go.

Meanwhile, Raffe hunts for his wings. Without them, he can't rejoin the angels, can't take his rightful place as one of their leaders. When faced with recapturing his wings or helping Penryn survive, which will he choose?

* 5 STARS * REVIEW:


This was definitely a worthy sequel to Angelfall! Penryn was trapped between protecting her sister Paige, fighting for the humanity and her loyal feelings towards Raffe. Susan Ee took me on another exciting journey and I loved it.


I'm not sure if I have ever read about heroine with more out of ordinary life. Crazy schizofrenic mother, demonic and damaged sister, exiled angel as her saving grace - Penryn is very interesting character. And even though the picture I painted may seem odd to some people, it does work really well.

World After has calmer, less shocking feel than first book. It was not as mindblowing as Angelfall, probably because I knew to expect unexpected. But it did nothing to lower overall appeal of the story.

I really liked twists author introduced in this story. Add a lot of action, a little bit of gore here and there and you get this original dystopian novel.


*MINOR SPOILER, HIGHLIGHT TO READ*

I have to admit I didn't miss Raffe as much as I thought I would. I mean, it got even better once he was back in the picture. But even without him, story was thrilling and captivating enough. Flashbacks to his past probably helped with that, as did excellent supporting characters.

*END OF SPOILER*

REVIEW: Dreamless by Josephine Angelini


Dreamless by Josephine Angelini
(Starcrossed #2)
Genre: YA Paranormal


Synopsis:

StarHearts, as fans of Josephine Angelini call themselves, will stay up all night reading Dreamless, the second book in the bestselling Starcrossed series. The saga mixes mythology, romance, action, and intrigue in a completely original way.

Dreamless continues the story of Helen Hamilton, a shy girl living on Nantucket Island whose desire for an ordinary life was thwarted when she discovered she is a Scion, a descendant of a Greek god and a mortal. Each Scion has a power, and Helen’s is the ability to travel to Hades.

Helen is determined to use her talent to stop a war amongst the gods and change her destiny, which is to live a life patterned after that of the tragic Helen of Troy. But her quest may cost her Lucas Delios, the boy she loves.

My Lucas, Helen and Orion:

* 1 STARS * Review:


Everything I liked in first book was not present in this instalment. Moreover, author introduced new character and created love triangle. A big no-no for me!

This book is excellent example of how to ruin series which had plenty of potential. So what would I recommend not to do?

*Change heroine from lovable girl into whinning self-pittying girl.

*Take away banters and interactions between hero and heroine which were the most interesting part of book #1 and which made this series special.

*Create love triangle in which heroine is so pathetic that she leads on both guys.

*Add over-done Greek mythology which is forced and sometimes even does not make sence.

I was thinking of DNF-ing this book numerous times. I forced myself to finish but I did not enjoy it. And now I do not care what is going to happen or with whom heroine is going to end up with. I am very disappointed since I liked first book a lot and now I decided not to even be bothered to finish this series. 

Tuesday 10 December 2013

REVIEW: Ashes to Ashes by Karina Halle

Book #8 in my all time favourite series Experiment in Terror will be released tomorrow!
Check out my review and enter awesome blog tour giveaway on the bottom of my post.


Ashes to Ashes by Karina Halle

(Experiment in Terror #8)

Genre: Paranormal Romance/Horror

Release date: December 11th


Synopsis:

It’s been two months since Perry Palomino and Dex Foray’s relationship reached a new turning point, two months since Perry started a new life in Seattle, and two months since their Experiment in Terror show took on a new partner, ex-Wine Babe Rebecca Sims, and found a new level of success. But whenever there is light in their lives, the madness still has a way of coming back in.

When the team is sent back to the stormy Oregon coast to investigate a haunted school, Perry wants to use the opportunity to reconnect with her family and reintroduce Dex into their lives. Only Perry’s not the only one who’s reaching out – her grandmother Pippa has started appearing to her with disturbing warnings and Perry’s presence at the school has ignited a chilling new wave of supernatural phenomenon. Once used a century ago as a sanatorium to house children dying of tuberculosis, the school’s past residents are slowly coming back to life and with one thing on their mind. They want someone to play with, someone to join them. Forever.

Even when dead, some children get whatever they want.

And they want Perry.

THIS BOOK IS RECOMMENDED FOR MATURE READERS AUDIENCES ONLY. HOWEVER, THIS REVIEW ITSELF DOES NOT CONTAIN ANY INAPPROPRIATE MATERIAL.

* 5 STARS * Review:



Ashes to Ashes was everything I was hoping for and some more! This next-to-last Experiment in Terror book is perfect mixture of funny banters, swooning moments, steamy scenes and extremely creepy situations! EIT fans most definitely won’t be disappointed.

Since I really missed Perry’s thoughts, I was eager to be back to her POV in this book. In Ashes to Ashes, everyone from Perry’s family is back in picture. Even Pippa and her creepy warnings that does not really make sense. Readers will witness plenty of personal confrontations as well as some serious discussions. But most of all, you are all going to be completely freaked out!

I admit, I was scared out of my mind reading this book. Dark haunted places with not so friendly ghosts can do that to you. I had goosebumps on various occasions and I will be avoiding dark vacated placed for a very long time after reading this book. Ashes to Ashes has without the doubt secured the title of the most scariest book of whole series to the date!


Once again, Karina Halle managed to hold my attention from the beginning to the end. Noone can bring up so many emotions the way Karina does with her writing. She kept the tension and excitement without creating forced drama - I have to applaud her for that. Moreover, her ability to include memorable and funny outliners in the most unexpected (yet fitting) situations is astonishing!

And the best thing about this book? Dex is still his charming-crude-sarcastic self. It’s amazing that even in the scariest situations, he is always able to make me laugh. I am so glad that author is keeping him the same. I just love him this way!

A lot of was resolved in this book, some things have been set into the motion and it is clear that series is slowly wrapping up. Believe me when I say that I am already psyched for final instalment of this superb series!

Friday 6 December 2013

REVIEW: GABRIEL'S REDEMPTION BY SYLVAIN REYNARD


Gabriel's Redemption by Sylvain Reynard

(Gabriel's Inferno #3)

Genre: Contemporary Romance

Purchase: Amazon / B&N / Kobo


Synopsis:

Professor Gabriel Emerson has left his position at the University of Toronto to embark on a new life with his beloved Julianne. Together, he’s confident that they can face any challenge. And he’s eager to become a father. 
But Julianne’s graduate program threatens Gabriel’s plans, as the pressures of being a student become all consuming. When she is given the honor of presenting an academic lecture at Oxford, Gabriel is forced to confront her about the subject of her presentation – research that conflicts with his own. And in Oxford, several individuals from their past appear, including an old nemesis intent on humiliating Julia and exposing one of Gabriel’s darkest secrets. 
In an effort to confront his remaining demons, Gabriel begins a quest to discover more about his biological parents, beginning a chain of events that has startling repercussions for himself, Julianne, and his hope of having a family.

My Julia and Gabriel:


* 4.5 STARS * REVIEW:


Burried deep in books and lectures, Julia is concentrating on her PhD. studies. When Gabriel's sudden urge to start family complicates things in their personal live, it seems like there may be troubles in the paradise. Will Gabriel, who is still facing demons from his past, be able to achieve long-seeked peace and find redemption from his sins?


(spoiler-free review)

It's no a secret that I admire SR's writing style. I was excited and curious to see where he would take Gabriel who is one of my most favourite bookish characters ever. And SR definitely didn't disappoint. His ability to express deepest feelings, fears and desires of his characters via words in this book was astonishing. He played with my emotions, he did it in very subtle way and I loved it.

However, most of all, I loved the fact that author kept characters flawed, showing their positive and negative sides. He didn't turn their lives into unbelievable fairytale and neither he created forced drama. Gabriel's temper and controlling nature showed its ugly head, as did Julia's weakness and tendency to turn into herself at the sight of confrontation. But readers will also witness Gabriel's loving and caring character as well as Julia's never-ending compassion. I hold these characters close to my heart and it was a pleasure to spend more time with them.


Gabriel's Rdemption is thoughtful and sensual story about love, sins, hopes and redemption. Once again, author managed to make me emotional as well as he made my heart race with anxiety while I was reading this book. Beside heart-warming romance, a lof of important and serious topics are discussed. A SMART ROMANCE I call it.

If you enjoyed previous books in this series, you will love this instalment as well. Gabriel's series is one of those stories that stay with you forever!

Tuesday 26 November 2013

REVIEW: The Weight of Words by Georgina Guthrie


The Weight of Words by Georgina Guthrie

(The Weight of Words #1)

Genre: Contemporary Romance

Purchase: Omnific Publishing

Synopsis:

Aubrey Price is in the final months of her undergraduate degree at the University of Toronto. Bright, witty and fiercely independent, Aubrey works part-time for the college Dean and has her sights set on graduating with distinction. When she meets Dean Grant’s son, Daniel, the TA in her senior Shakespearean studies course, a shared love of the Bard’s works and an instant mutual attraction draw Aubrey and Daniel together. Unfortunately, a strict anti-fraternizing policy, made more perilous by a black mark on Daniel’s record, keeps them apart.

Against this academic backdrop, Aubrey and Daniel navigate their way through a steamy courtship, their forbidden romance aided, abetted and sometimes thwarted by a colorful cast of friends, family and classmates.
My Aubrey and Daniel:


  * 4 STARS * Review:


How much trouble can it be when you fall for your teaching assistent who also happens to be the son of Dean you are working for? As Aubrey will learn, it can bring a lot of problems and not just for her. Especially when man in question has his own can of worms he is not ready to open yet...

The Weight of Words is truly adorable story! Very witty and sometimes funny too. With forbidden love as a main topic, I was hooked from the very beginning. Style of writing is high-level and it was a pleasure to read this story. The Weight of Words may not be the most moving story, but it is definitely one of the most enjoyable ones I have read lately.

In The Weight of Words, Aubrey is a smart woman and a compassionate soul. The way her teaching assistant Daniel was effecting her was very cute and adorable.

Daniel was very moody in this story and I had hard time figuring him out. He could be grumpy, angry, playful or sweet. He was really trying to stay away from Aubrey, but the more time he spend with her, the closer he was to failing his determination to keep his distance. Moreover, Daniel's character had amazing way with words and he really knew how to charm a woman... Teasing between him and Aubrey was incredible in this story and author wrote it perfectly.
"As he looked at me, his face openly betrayed what his heart was feeling. The wall, the bravado, the persona — it was all gone, reduced to rubble at our feet."
To be honest I have nothing to complain about. Beautifuly written, adorable characters, thoughtful ideas, no cliffhanger. The only thing I was missing was some shocking twist, something that would keep me on my toes. Anyway, I really enjoyed reading this book and I am looking forward to next instalment.

Monday 25 November 2013

REVIEW: Sempre by J.M. Darhower


Sempre by J.M. Darhower

(Forever Series #1)

Genre: Romantic Suspense

Purchase: Amazon / B&N



Synopsis:

Haven Antonelli and Carmine DeMarco had vastly different childhoods. Haven, a second-generation slave, grew up isolated in the middle of the desert, her days full of hard work and terrifying abuse. Carmine, born into a wealthy Mafia family, lived a life of privilege, never having to answer for anything he did.

Both now seventeen, a twist of fate causes their worlds to collide, making them question everything they ever believed. Entangled in a web of secrets and lies, they learn that while different on the surface, they have more in common than anyone would think.
My Haven and Carmine:

* 5 STARS * Review:


Million stars! A must-read and definitely my all time favourite.


Carmine DeMarco is troubled, tempramental and problematic teenage boy who does what he wants and when he wants. He doesn't really care about anything until Haven comes along...


Haven Antonelli knows nothing else as being unequal, a slave, a servant. When she is put with DeMarco family, the life she knew so far is turned upside down. Will she be able to adapt?


Italian mafia, slavery, freedom, danger, love and sacrifice. All these are topics of this book. This story reminded me to never take anything for granted and to enjoy simple things every day.

Sempre is extremely powerful and intese story. The one that you will never forget. It was beautiful and fascinating to read about two poeple from completely different backgorunds growing close together and falling in love.


Amazingly crafted characters, excellent writing, captivating storyline. This story was flawless! The use of 3rd person narrative made it very special for me. As a reader, I was able to connect with main as well as supporting characters and all of them became very close to my heart.

I can't express how much I love this story. Mrs. Darhower put her soul into it and I savoured every single word she wrote. As soon as you can, I highly recommend you to pick this book up and read it. You won't regret it.

Tuesday 19 November 2013

RECOMMENDATION: GABRIEL'S SERIES BY SYLVAIN REYNARD

Book #3 in my all time favourite contemporary romance series by Sylvain Reynard will be released soon so I decided to share with you my thoughts on first 2 books and let you know why I love them so much! In case you haven't read those books, now is the best time


Purchase: Amazon / B&N


GABRIEL'S INFERNO SYNOPSIS:

Enigmatic and sexy, Professor Gabriel Emerson is a well respected Dante specialist by day, but by night he devotes himself to an uninhibited life of pleasure. He uses his notorious good looks and sophisticated charm to gratify his every whim, but is secretly tortured by his dark past and consumed by the profound belief that he is beyond all hope of redemption. When the sweet and innocent Julia Mitchell enrolls as his graduate student, his attraction and mysterious connection to her not only jeopardizes his career, but sends him on a journey in which his past and his present collide. An intriguing and sinful exploration of seduction, forbidden love and redemption, "Gabriel's Inferno" is a captivating and wildly passionate tale of one man's escape from his own personal hell as he tries to earn the impossible...forgiveness and love.

My Julia and Gabriel:


* 5 STARS * REVIEW:


Wow! This is a phenomenal book!

Gabriel's Inferno is the best story about forbidden love I have ever read. All characters were believable and real. They have their ups and downs, fears and dreams, past issues and hopes for future. This is very compact and smart book. It has everything - romance, erotica, art, religious elements. I really enjoyed reading it, it made me cry, laugh, smile, anxious... Reading Gabriel's Inferno was really a fulfilling experience! And I absolutely love all those references to another classic literary works, especially the ones considering Lord of the Rigs.

Main female character, Julia, is kind, sweet, smart and reincarnation of pure goodness. But also, she can be very passionate and angry when needed. She has definitely become my favourite female heroine. She always did exactly the same thing I would do if I was in her shoes. And Gabriel... he went thought various changes during the book and I have no other choice than fell in love with him. He may have a dark past and intense personality, but he is a true gentleman and he knows how to spoil a woman. I felt so much compassion for all characters, not just for Julia and Gabriel. Most of the time it was a sensual and pleasant reading but sometimes it was very heart-wrenching and my heart was racing when something bad was about to happen or something tragic to be discussed (and there is not many books that would do that to me).

Sylvain Reynard earned a prominent place on my favourite bookshelf with this book!



GABRIEL'S RAPTURE SYNOPSIS:

Professor Gabriel Emerson has embarked on a passionate, yet clandestine affair with his former student, Julia Mitchell. Sequestered on a romantic holiday in Italy, he tutors her in the sensual delights of the body and the raptures of sex. But when they return, their happiness is threatened by conspiring students, academic politics, and a jealous ex-lover. When Gabriel is confronted by the university administration, will he succumb to Dante's fate? Or will he fight to keep Julia, his Beatrice, forever? In Gabriel's Rapture, the brilliant sequel to the wildly successful debut novel, Gabriel's Inferno, Sylvain Reynard weaves an exquisite love story that will touch the reader's mind, body, and soul, forever.

My Julia and Gabriel:

 

 

* 5 STARS * Review:


Wow, Sylvain Reynard did not disappoint! This sequel is at least as good as Gabriel's Inferno. The book is full of thoughtful ideas about life, sin, forgiveness and love. In Gabriel's Rapture, the author connected love and sex in most beautiful way and the way he sees marriage is absolutely wonderful. The book has a very substantial effect on me. It made me cry and it made me think a lot about the life. I don't remember feeling such a strong compassion for main characters as I had when reading this book.

I really admire Sylvain Reynard for his ability of forming such a beautiful compliments in this book. Moreover, he is a master of teasing and all of the intimate scenes were so real and so tasteful. Some of the compliments said by Professor to Julia, made even me blushed when reading it :)


The author succeeded again in creating realistic characters. Gabriel and Julia are not perfect, and they both made various mistakes in this book. But this is how life goes, how we learn. Gabriel has changed a lot comparing to Gabriel's Inferno and I was so happy to read that he was able to find his peace finally.

This book about love and forgiveness touched my heart and I am sure I will re-read it couple of times.

Sunday 17 November 2013

REVIEW: ANGELFALL BY SUSAN EE


Angelfall by Susan Ee

(Penryn & the End of Days #1)

Genre: Dystopia/Urban Fantasy

Purchase: Amazon US / Amazon UK / B&N


 

SYNOPSIS:

It's been six weeks since angels of the apocalypse descended to demolish the modern world. Street gangs rule the day while fear and superstition rule the night. When warrior angels fly away with a helpless little girl, her seventeen-year-old sister Penryn will do anything to get her back.

Anything, including making a deal with an enemy angel.

Raffe is a warrior who lies broken and wingless on the street. After eons of fighting his own battles, he finds himself being rescued from a desperate situation by a half-starved teenage girl.

Traveling through a dark and twisted Northern California, they have only each other to rely on for survival. Together, they journey toward the angels' stronghold in San Francisco where she'll risk everything to rescue her sister and he'll put himself at the mercy of his greatest enemies for the chance to be made whole again.

Recommended for ages 16 and up.

* 5 STARS * REVIEW:



Angelfall is without the doubt the best dystopian/urban fantasy novel I have read in very long time. It has easily became one of my all time favourite books and I recommend it to everyone!

 My Penryn and Raffe:

If you are romance junkie, you probably won't find your fix here. But trust me, this book is lacking nothing. I loved dark view on angels author decided to pursue in this book. And I loved how realistic feel this book had. The way author built this post-apocalyptic world was very believable and I cannot wait where will she take her characters in next instalments.

But most of all I loved narrator. Penryn was survival-smart, brave, determined and loyal. There was not a single annoying feature about her. No, she was not perfect, she is human after all. But her behaviour and reactions were very appealing to me as a reader. Paired with wingless angel Raffe, they made very interesting partnership.



In case you haven't read this book yet, please give it a chance. It is action-packed, exciting and emotional journey of young girl trying to get her family together in matter what cost. So do not hesitate and pick it up!

Sunday 10 November 2013

REVIEW: Bully by Penelope Douglas


Bully by Penelope Douglas

(Fall Away #1)

Genre: Contemporary Romance


Synopsis:

My name is Tate. He doesn't call me that, though. He would never refer to me so informally, if he referred to me at all.

We're neighbors, and once, we were best friends. But then, one summer, he turned on me and has made it his mission to screw up my life at every opportunity. I've been humiliated, shut out, and gossiped about all through high school. His pranks and rumors got more sadistic as time wore on, and I made myself sick trying to hide from him. I worried about what was around every corner and behind every door. 

So I left.

I spent a year studying abroad and bathed in the freedom of life without Jared. Now I'm back to finish up high school and get the hell out of here forever. I'm hoping that after a year of breathing room, he's moved on and forgotten all about me. 

But even if he hasn't changed, I have. I'm not interested in avoiding him or turning the other cheek anymore. We're going to go head to head, because neither of us wants to back down.

THIS BOOK IS RECOMMENDED FOR MATURE READERS AUDIENCES ONLY. HOWEVER, THIS REVIEW ITSELF DOES NOT CONTAIN ANY INAPPROPRIATE MATERIAL.

My Tate and Jared:

  * 4 STARS * Review:



Jared who used to be Tate's best friend, is now cruel and intimidating bully who makes her life really unpleasant. Tate decides to go study abroad for a year to escape this life and comes back as different person, ready to finally stand up for herself. What it takes for victim to become bully? And what about this weird connection and attraction she still feels towards Jared?

Bully was very addictive story from the very beginning. It was clear from the very beginning that Jared was enjoying Tate's discomfort. But why?  What happened that he changed from sweet caring friend to such terrible person? Bully may not be the most emotional and thoughtful book that would make me cry, yet I still could not put it down. Sometimes I am just looking for the entertainment when reading and this book provided it perfectly.

I absolutely love "from-haters-to-lovers" kind of story. Especially when I get butterflies whenever something exciting or dramatic is happening and I cannot tear my eyes from the book. And this was exactly the case with this book. But even though Tate and Jared were both quite mean to each other, I still could not truly love Jared. I really enjoyed this book, but I did not find his reasons for his terrible behaviour justifiable and even by the end of the book he didn't win me over. I'm looking forward to reading novella Until You which will be from his point of view and I am hoping it will make me understand his behaviour better!'

Thursday 7 November 2013

REVIEW: Hushed by Kelley York


Hushed by Kelley York

Genre: Contemporary Thriller

Release date: November 11th 

Published by Entangled:Embrace



Synopsis:

Eighteen-year-old Archer couldn't protect his best friend, Vivian, from what happened when they were kids, so he's never stopped trying to protect her from everything else. It doesn't matter that Vivian only uses him when hopping from one toxic relationship to another - Archer is always there, waiting to be noticed.

Then along comes Evan, the only person who's ever cared about Archer without a single string attached. The harder he falls for Evan, the more Archer sees Vivian for the manipulative hot-mess she really is.

But Viv has her hooks in deep, and when she finds out about the murders Archer's committed and his relationship with Evan, she threatens to turn him in if she doesn't get what she wants... And what she wants is Evan's death, and for Archer to forfeit his last chance at redemption.

My Vivian, Archer and Evan:


  * 4.5 STARS * Review:

"To stay or let go. To keep going and see where his past decisions took him, or try grasping that second chance. Do monsters get second chances?"
Archer has always been a little bit obsessed with  his friend Vivian. He is determined to do anything for her, even kill people who hurt her in the past. Than he meets Evan, nice and shy guy. Archer quickly becomes fascinated with him, espcecially when he realizes that Evan is the only one who gives not just take from Archer. But can Archer ever overcome his obsession with Vivian and see her true colors?
"Didn't his heart have enough stitched and cracks to last a lifetime? Breaking, healing, breaking. And yet he put his trust in the few people that matterd, set himself up for being struck down again and again."
Hushed is unusual and extremely captivating book. It is harsh, dark and depressive story full of violence and conflicting feelings. But most importantly, this psychological thriller will leave you thinking about what happened for days!

It is very difficult to cathegorize this book, as it is difficult to describe Archer. A secluded kind of person, quite messed up with dark thoughts, intelligent but misunderstood by others, Archer makes very unusual but interesting narrator. He is not a hero in literal sense, nor he is villian. He was like a ticking bomb and I was waiting all the time for him to go off. He and his dark thoughts were what made this book a winner for me.

Those who are reluctant to read m/m story, I completely understand. I was avoiding this genre for a long time and decided to give this genre a chance only because it was supposed to be a "light" version. Since Hushed is intended for YA audience, nothing was too graphic and it all felt pretty natural to me as a m/m newbie.

Highly recommended if you are looking for something out of ordinary romance stories, yet still something intense and very emotional!

Tuesday 5 November 2013

REVIEW: Sentinel by Jennifer L. Armentrout


Sentinel by Jennifer L. Armentrout

(Covenant series #5)

Genre: YA Paranormal 


Synopsis:

It's a beautiful day for a war.

As the mortal world slowly slips into chaos of the godly kind, Alexandria Andros must overcome a stunning defeat that has left her shaken and in doubt of their ability to end this war once and for all.

And with all the obstacles between Alex and her happily-ever-after with the swoonworthy Aiden St. Delphi, they must now trust a deadly foe as they travel deep into the Underworld to release one of the most dangerous gods of all time.

In the stunning, action-packed climax to the bestselling Covenant series, Alex must face a terrible choice: the destruction of everything and everyone she holds dear… or the end of herself.

  * 4 STARS * Review:

My Alex and Aiden:


I was sad, yet excited to start this final instalment. Once again, Jennifer L. Aremntrout managed to write exciting and thrilling story, full of Greek myths coming alive in our contemporary world. This may not be my favourite part of series, but I was still able to enjoy it a lot!

If you for whatever reason have not read this series yet, you should do so now. If not for action-packed, gut-wrenching storyline, than read it because of Aiden St. Deplhi. I am not sure if I have ever read about more devoted, loyal and loving male character before. He is just perfect!

I cannot really talk about this book without giving spoilers. So all I am going to say is that even though I enjoyed this book and was ok with ending, I did not love it. So why not 5 stars? Firstly, I felt like climax was in Apollyon and this was just aftermath. Story was a little bit repetitive, nothing completely new or shocking has happened in this book. Also, I know that this was Alex's and Aiden's story, but after so much time I had spent with this series, there was no proper goodbye with supporting characters. Everything ended so abruptly.

I highly recommend this series to all YA paranormal readers! It is definitely my favourite series when it comes to Greek mythology!!!

Wednesday 30 October 2013

REVIEW: A Hidden Fire by Elizabeth Hunter


A Hidden Fire by Elizabeth Hunter

(Elemental Mysteries #1)

Genre: Paranormal Romance

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SYNOPSIS:

"No secret stays hidden forever."

A phone call from an old friend sets Dr. Giovanni Vecchio back on the path of a mystery he'd abandoned years before. He never expected a young librarian could hold the key to the search, nor could he have expected the danger she would attract. Now he and Beatrice De Novo will follow a twisted maze that leads from the archives of a university library, through the fires of Renaissance Florence, and toward a confrontation they never could have predicted.

A Hidden Fire is a paranormal mystery/romance. It is the first book in the Elemental Mysteries Series.
THIS BOOK IS RECOMMENDED FOR MATURE READERS AUDIENCES ONLY. HOWEVER, THIS REVIEW ITSELF DOES NOT CONTAIN ANY INAPPROPRIATE MATERIAL.

  My Beatrice and Giovanni:


  * 5 STARS * Review:


Eventful story about young libarian Beatrice De Novo and mysterious Dr. Giovanni Vecchio is amazing introduction into this paranormal series. I loved it and I cannot wait to read more!

I love mysterious, unreadable heroes who keep to themselves. Dr. Giovanni Vecchio is one of them. Well educated and perfect gentleman. Self-confident, but he never came off as arrogant jerk. And there was so much more to him. It took me long time to partially figure him out and I'm sure there is plenty of other things I still don't know about him yet. He has became one of my favourite bookish characters!

Beatrice De Novo was intriguing character herself. Charming and intelligent. I really liked her boldness. Still, she was too stubborn, too passionate, never seeing things from others people's perspective. Sometimes age difference between her and Giovanni showed, and Giovanni had to put Beatrice to her place. At least he was never a jerk about it.

I have to mention that I loved chemistry between Giovanni and Beatrice. Their mutual attraction was electrifying!


A Hidden Fire is SLOW BURN kind of story. I'm not oppose to reading nicely written insta-love book, but "slow burn" has always been my preference. Gio and Beatrice formed weird friendship at first and than it gradually developped into something more...

I really like writing style of this author. It has some mysterious quality into it with hints of poetics here and there. It is really beautiful. Banters between hero and heroine were entertaining, over storyline very captivating and adventurous. I'm already looking forward to next book in the series!

Friday 25 October 2013

REVIEW: The Scribe by Elizabeth Hunter


The Scribe by Elizabeth Hunter
(Irin Chronicles #1)
Genre: Adult Paranormal Romance


Synopsis:

Hidden at the crossroads of the world, an ancient race battles to protect humanity, even as it dies from within.

Ava Matheson came to Istanbul looking for answers, but others came looking for her. A reckless warrior guards her steps, but will Malachi’s own past blind him to the truth of who Ava might be? While ancient forces gather around them, both Ava and Malachi search for answers.

Whispering voices. Deadly touch. Their passion should be impossible... or it could be the only thing that will keep them alive.

THE SCRIBE is the first book in the Irin Chronicles, the new paranormal romance series from Elizabeth Hunter, author of the Elemental Mysteries.

* 5 STARS * Review:

“We’re all immortal, Ava, as long as our stories are told.”


Exciting story set in modern Instanbul with no insta-love. The Scribe was really refreshing urban fantasy novel which I enjoyed immensely!

Ava can hear voices in language she doesn't understand and sense the tone of other poeple's minds. Its her curse and her blessing. When she comes to Instanbul, hoping to find "cure" for her situation, couple of strangers start to follow her. Soon she will find out that there are forces in this world she never even imagined to exist before and she might be part of it herself...

I fell in love with the world author created in this book. And especially, I loved Malachi's character. "Tall, dark and brooding" as author described him. He was calm and loyal but also extremely passionate and intimidating when fighting for something he believed in. I loved how frustrated he became when things were not going his way. He was truly adorable man, yet fierce warrior.

And heroine? Ava was feisty, snarky and intelligent. Great combination. It does not happen very often that we have really mature heroine so I was glad for her character.

I really liked how author managed romance in this story. It took some time but once hero and heroine developped feelings for each other, it was intense. Fortunatelly, even though romance was very important in this book, it never took all spotlight in the story.

Another positive thing is that author kept me guessing for a while what exact supernatural creaters were present in the story. It kept me on my toes and I liked it a lot.

The Scribe is a movie material. I watched story enfold breathlessly between my eyes and I was mesmerized by beautiful writing style. Whole storyline was exciting and finale blew my mind. Now I am wreck and I need next book as soon as possible!!!