Heart-Shaped Hack by Tracey Garvis Graves (11/27/15)

I have to say that I definitely enjoyed this book. There were several times where I chuckled as I read. I love finding books that can do that for me. Just make me laugh because they can. 

I have to say that I was very impressed with the author and what she did in this book.

I would never had though that a hacker would be so intriguing. But Ian was. He was pretty smart and funny and he was willing to do ANYTHING to grab Kate's attention. 

Slowly but surely they got to know each other and fell madly in love. I loved their relationship. It definitely wasn't a walk in the park, but it was worth it. 

I liked the fact that it was just a simple romance book. Sometimes, we (or more specifically, I) need those. I like being able to just loose my self in the characters and their love, with no drama. 

No-Where But Here by KatieMcGarry (11/27/15)

I'm kind of torn about this book. 

I had major problems with Emily. She's a seventeen year old girl, who lives with her mother and step-father, but calls him daddy. She lives in Florida and refuses to leave the security of her home or her world. She does EVERYTHING that her mother tells her to do, because she doesn't want to hurt her feelings. She has a real dad, whom she refuses to have an actual relationship with because she believes that he walked out on her and her mom, and only gives him enough time to visit with him once a year. 

I wanted to reach and slap the non-sense out of her. Certain events happened that causes her to have to go home to Kentucky and visit her REAL dad and his family (whom she knows nothing about, because her mom is selfish and refuses to acknowledge them). 

I was so pissed off at her and her uptight attitude. I only kept reading because I wanted to know what that extremely guarded secret that EVERYONE kept was... 

I didn't mind the other characters, and I felt like I liked Olivia a lot more than any one else. She was a sneaky nosy person, whom only wanted to make Emily understand who her family was and that she belonged with them as much as she belonged with her mother.

The Air He Breathes by Brittainy C. Cherry (11/27/15)

"I was warned about Tristan Cole. "Stay away from him", people said. "He's cruel." "He's cold." "He's damaged." It's easy to judge a man because of his past. To look at Tristan and see a monster. But I couldn't do that. I had to accept the wreckage that lived inside of him because it also lived inside of me. We were both empty..." 

Let me just tell you right now that I cried and held my self while I read this book. It was such a beautiful story and delivered perfectly. 

There was so much ache and pain throughout this book. Both Liz and Tristan suffered greatly throughout this book. 

That prologue just tore my heart into tiny little pieces. I felt like I couldn't breathe. I didn't understand why the author would be so cruel as to make Tristan go through what he went through. 

Then there was Liz and what she had gone through. And there was Emma as well. I loved that tiny little girl and her beautiful heart and personality. She was so full of love and understanding for her mother. 

The fact that these two people had suffered and had more than one thing that connected was amazing. I loved their relationship. I loved that it wasn't all roses and peaches at the beginning. They both had to work, and I'm glad that Liz didn't give up. I'm glad that she was willing to be Tristan's friend and seek out that friendship. 

"The magic is in the tiny moments. The small touches, the gentle smiles, the quiet laughs. The magic is about living for today and allowing yourself to breathe and be happy. My dear boy, to love is the magic." 

Corrupt by Penelope Douglas (11/27/15)

I finally found a book that brought me out of the reading funk that I had been. Holy freaking hell. Penelope Douglas blew my mind away. 

I've read several of her books in the past and have enjoyed them, but none like this one. I couldn't believe what I was reading. There were times where I kept wondering if it was just a dream.

As much as I hated Michael Crist, I loved him. I couldn't help myself. There was something about him that was so intriguing, even though he was a cruel bastard. The way that he treated Rika was just absolutely ridiculous. 

I have to say that I was a bit impressed with Rika and how she grew out of her shell once she was on her own. I hated Trevor and what he was. 

I liked getting this book in two POV's. It was definitely enjoyable! But what I liked the best was the Present and Past that we got.

I actually read the book in one sitting, and managed to finish it before my bed time (don't judge, I'm a mom to 2 small children and work full time)! 

Anyways. I can't wait to see what else Penelope has in store for us. I wonder if she'll give is Kai's story and what the future holds for him. Or maybe even Will. I definitely wouldn't mind getting to know those guys some more. 

Walk Through Fire by Kristen Ashley (11/27/15)

Give me a second while I fan myself! 

KA has done it again! She totally amazes me with the talent that she has. She loves what she does and is willing to share it with us her readers. I haven't been disappointed by her or her work so far. She has impressed me with everything she does and gives. Not only that, she is full of love for everyone. 

I couldn't get enough of High or Millie. Their love story was beautiful and worth the wait. 

Thank you Ms. Ashley for sharing this with us!! Totally loved every second of it! It's worth missing several hours of sleep!

The Absence of Olivia by Anie Michaels (11/27/15)

One of the bloggers that I follow was reading this book. So I decided to join the band wagon and started reading it. I was a bit hesitant at first, well because of the description.

"My name is Evelyn. I met Devon and instantly fell for him. Weeks later he fell for my best friend. Never one to make waves, I watched as they started a life together. I stood by as their family grew, was the maid of honor at their wedding and the godmother to their children. All the while, I was longing for him, watching as he became the perfect husband and father. I was never jealous. I wasn't even angry that my best friend had the only person I wanted..." 

Don't get me wrong, I'm all for 2nd Chance Love Stories. But this was something else. I was mad. At the writer, at the characters, at the story line. I was mad at everything. 

All in all, I did enjoy the book. It evoked certain emotions from me, which is what I like in a book. Evelyn made me proud. I was glad that she was able to look out for herself first and then everyone else. And the fact that she was able to find a love that was worth it, was amazing. 

Sweet Nothing by Jamie McGuire (11/27/15)

Oh My Goodness!!! 

I was actually gifted this book by a very kind person that I met through several book groups on Social Media. 

I tried to keep myself away from all of the hype that was all over the place. I knew that Jamie McGuire was co-writing it with Teresa Mummert. I've read just about every single book that Jamie has written. And I've read a handful of Teresa's books. Individually, they are good. But together? Freaking Hell, they are amazing. 

At some point, I had completely forgotten that the book had been written by TWO different authors. Not the same person, not siblings. But TWO different people. They created something beautiful and wonderful and painful. 

"When you think you know what's happening, you're only half way there... People talk about love that takes time- the kind you fall in to. We were more lie a crash and burn. When our lives intertwined, I knew I would never be the same. He was the man I would cherish the rest of my life, who would father my children. In an instant our life together began, and in an instant it would end. The late nights; the excuses; the lies. And in the blink of an eye, it was like we never were."

You know,  here I was minding my own business; just reading and enjoying my book. And then all of a sudden, I felt like I had been stabbed. Not just stabbed, but it had been shredded. And then, it was all okay. No. I won't give you the details, because that defeats the purpose of YOU reading a book. 

Jamie did what she does best, she gave us a beautiful and amazing relationship. That ending though! I was in tears because I wasn't sure how it was going to end. And then, there was light at the end of the tunnel for me!!! 

I loved the (2) POV's that we had. It was quite enjoyable. After I finished reading the book, I went back and wondered which author had written which scene. 

Anyways, definitely enjoyed and loved the book. It's definitely on my Top 5 Jamie List!! 

An Ember in the Ashes by Sabaa Tahir (11/27/15)

I finished reading this book the other. I finally gave in to temptation and bought the hardbook cover. Let me tell you, I thoroughly enjoyed every minute of this book. 

"Laia is a slave. Elias is a soldier. Neither is free. Under the Martial Empire, defiance is met with death. Those who do not vow their blood and bodies to the Emperor risk the execution of their loved ones and the destruction of all they hold dear."

I was enthralled with the description of this book. I knew I wanted to read it, but I didn't want it to end. So I eventually gave in and started it. I was immediately sucked in to their world and ached for their troubles and trials. 

It was hard to not feel pain for Laia and her circumstances. She was so young, and had already lost so much at such an age. And to witness the atrocities that she saw, was hard. I have to say that she was a very courageous character and I was very impressed with all that she withstood. There were several times when I wanted to slap her and knock some sense into her. But, overall, I liked her. 

Elias. What more can I say about him. Other than the fact that he is a very complicated person/character. I was shocked at what he had been through himself. I felt for him. In every sense of the word. There was so much that he wanted, yet everything was just out of his fingers reach, literally. 

The connections and relationships that these characters developed were wonderful. I was rooting for Laia and Elias from the very beginning (how stupid of me, right?). There are other characters that I would rather not talk about, because, well that would mean that they meant something to both Elias and Laia, and we (meaning "I") don't want that. I'd rather be oblivious to those feelings. 

I have to say that I was very impressed with Sabaa Tahir. She did an amazing job creating this wonderful yet dreadful world. A world where there is evil and nasty things and people that are willing to hurt those that are helpless. A world where you serve your Emperor with Mind, Body and Soul before serving yourself and those you "love". A world where EVERYONE is a prisoner in one way or another. 

I literally ached as I neared the end of this book. I didn't want that last page to arrive so soon, yet it did. I was however happy with how it ended. I was happy that Laia was the one that rescued Elias, and that he would have to help her rescue her brother. 

Library of Souls by Ransom Riggs (11/27/15)

I thoroughly enjoyed the other books in this series, but I LOVED this hard book cover. It was beautiful and amazing. It was absolutely stunning. 

This book was the beautiful end to this series. I was amazed by the journey that each individual took to get to their end. They were so brave and beautiful. 

Jacob was able to develop his abilities and was able to become the hero that his grandfather knew him to be. I loved what he was able to accomplish in the end. 

Hollow City by Ransom Riggs (11/27/15)

I loved this book even more than the first one. Miss Peregrine's Home, we learn about the children and what peculiarities they have. In this one, they all take us on adventures, to try and save their Ymbrynes that have been captured. It's pretty brave of those children, because although some are decades old, they only appear to be several years old.

Those amazing children were so brave to leave their own loop and risk aging forward in order to save Miss P. We were able to meet many more characters in this book that were pretty interesting. Like Mr. Addison - the talking dog, whom plays an important role through out the end of this book, and the next. 

The friendships and relationships that develop in this book were absolutely beautiful. It was nice to see how the children took care of each other, how they genuinely cared for each. And how far they went to protect each other. 

Miss Peregrine's Home for Peculiar Children by Rnasom Riggs (11/27/15)

I had been hesitant to start this book, because I wasn't completely sure about the story line. I believe it took my about 3 years to finally dive in.

I'm so happy that I finally did. It took me a little bit to understand what was happening, because there was only slight action at the beginning, I don't even know that you can call it action. But it certainly is something that causes a great turn in the book. 

I loved the characters and their abilities/peculiarities! Jacob goes off and has an adventure while discovering the truth about his grandfather and realizing things about his self. It was most certainly entertaining and kept me at the edge of my seat, trying to discover what would happen next. 

I loved meeting all the characters that were introduced to us, and what they were able to do. 

Hold On by Kristen Ashley (11/27/15)

I can’t believe that our journey with the folks of the Burg is over. Like completely over, unless Ms. Kristen Ashley decides to gift us with some of their children’s story, like say… No & Addie J or maybe Jack Colton & Angie Callahan… Gah!!! 

No but seriously, this book was an absolute beauty work of art. I always enjoyed Cher. It totally sucked what Dennis Lowe did to her. It sucked that she got dragged into the mess that he created because of her looks, but she was totally awesome. I loved that she gained a WHOLE NEW FAMILY out of the mess. I loved that she was willing to do anything for her son, to provide for him. She was a total awesome heroine. 

Now, Garrett Merrick? I always wondered about him, and his issues. It sucked that he was going through his problems, and that he literally let go of his “true love” – wife Mia. But, at the same time, I’m happy that he did. Because there would be no Cher and Merry or Merry and Cher. 

I loved that they were able to build a foundation of friendship before they began anything or any kind of relationship. And it sort of just happened that way. Cher was always “one of the boys” because she was a tough chick who could hang with the guys, and would rather do that then go shopping with the girls. So yes, the building a friendship and actually getting to know the other person was great! Once they finally hooked up, it was absolutely beautiful. My heart kind of broke at first. I thought that she was going to have to chase him there for a minute, but am glad that it didn’t happen that way. Thanks to some trouble that presented itself to Cher, Merry was able to realize that he wanted to start a relationship with her. And like any Alpha male, he threw down for her. He made her business his. He got involved and wouldn’t take NO for an answer. 

I think that what got me the most was that he fell in love with her son Ethan at the same time that he was falling in love with Cher. It was absolutely beautiful and wonderful. They were able to develop a relationship and bond over men stuff. And that boy, the way that he cared for his mother, and the things that he did for her, were just wow. He was definitely an awesome kid. 

Like any KA book; you get some action out of this book. Not like the others, but there is still some that keep your heart racing and wondering what is going to happen. But don’t fret it. She takes care of her business. (And by her, I mean KA!)

Now, can I talk about that Epilogue! It was amazing and wonderful and beautiful. I couldn’t stop my tears. I still feel the fullness in my heart after reading so much beauty! She completely outdid herself. Never in my wildest dreams, did I ever expect the beauty that she gave us. But she did, and for that I am thankful!!! 

So thank you Kristen Ashley, for your wonderful talents of creating beautiful worlds, with beautiful people and sharing those with us. And showing us how to love and appreciate reading and books. You have a gift; and that is to bring people (women in particular) together and allowing them to fall in love with your dreams!! 

Your Faithful Reader and Fellow Rock Chick!!! 

The Paper Swan by Leylah Attar (11/27/15)

I’ve been contemplating writing this review since I finished reading the book. I have a complete and total swirl of emotions. 

They say it takes 21 days to form a habit. 

They lie.

For 21 days she held on.

But on Day 22, she would have given anything for the sweet slumber of death.

Because on Day 22, she realizes that her only way out means certain death for one of the two men she loves. 

I was completely enthralled with this book and the story line. You’re immediately thrown into the story at the beginning of the book. 

“I hadn’t planned on wearing statement heels on the runway to death, but if this was it, if I was going to be killed by some random psycho with a thirst for blood, what better way to go down than with red-soled ‘fuck yous’ to my murdered?”

I went into this book completely blind, not knowing what to expect. There are several bloggers that I follow and they all said the same thing. GO IN BLIND. TRUST this Author and her book. I am so glad that I did. 

I can’t say much about the book without giving anything away. I can say that I absolutely loved the heroine. She was so strong and brave and had so much courage. My heart broke for her several times. I had mixed emotions about another character, but in the end, everything makes sense.

“Because when we love, we carry it on the inside, and we can turn on its light even in our darkest moments. The deeper we love, the brighter it shines.”

I have to say that all in all, it was an absolutely beautiful love story. The trials that the characters were dealt were gut-wrenching. They all struggled, but fortunately were able to overcome their obstacles. 

I absolute LOVED one person… 

“’Are you calling me and ugly duckling?’… ‘No. I’m just…’ He cupped his groin and jumped back instinctively. He didn’t like the way this little girl had him hopping around like a bunny rabbit. ‘You know what you are? You’re a big bully. You kick me, you spy on me, you walk in and out of here without my permission, and now you’re trying to intimidate me.’ They glared at each other, her hands on her hips, and him guarding his balls.”

I laughed so hard.  

Magonia by Maria Dahvana Headley (11/27/15)

I was originally recommended this book when it first released (actually before it released). A friend of mine knows of my passion for reading and thought that it would be a good read for me. I went out and bought it, and actually sat on it for some time. 

I finally decided to start it this weekend. And holy hell. I’m not sure why I waited so long to read this. When I first started looking into this book, I kept hearing that it had almost like a Stardust and Peter Pan twist to it, but not really. I couldn’t really comprehend it. But once I started it, I got it! 

We meet Aza Ray, who is literally deathly ill. I mean, she’s like legit dying. She can’t breathe. No one knows what is wrong with her, or how to help her because there has never been a case like hers before. But despite her illness, she’s a pretty incredible person. She knows what’s going to happen to her and she accepts it, or as much as she can for an almost 16 year old teenager. 

I have to say that I was completely impressed with this book. The story line was unique, although it’s compared to other known books/stories; it’s not though. The journey that we travel on is one that completely sucks you in and doesn’t let you go. I kept reading and wondering what in the world was happening and how things were going to turn out. 

We don’t really get a whole world building / creation in this book; but it’s okay. You don’t really need it. Not when you have they types of characters and their descriptions. At least for me, they were good enough. I think the way that she describes them is what sucks you right in. I mean, a beautiful (in a strange way) boy that is blue (who by the way happens to be named Dai)? I was a little scared that we would get some kind of Love Triangle (you know, with Jason, Dai & Aza Ray), but alas, it doesn’t happen. There is a connection between her and both boys individually that she can’t really explain. And that’s okay. 

I was thrilled with a lot of things, and confused at the same time. Needless to say that I am definitely looking forward to reading the next book – which we don’t even know the name of. All I know is that it will be released some time in 2016 (a whole year from now). Bummer. 

The Forgotten Mountain by Heather Lyons (6/26/15)

"Madness - that old, dear friend of mine - has come home for a visit. And I welcome its return with open arms."

That is exactly how I felt when I finished this book. I don't even know where to begin.

This book here, The Forgotten Mountain is the reason why I started this series. I came across the book cover and immediately fell in love with it. I was completely mesmerized by it. Then I read the premise for the Collector's Society and I couldn't help myself. I read and read until I couldn't stop. I fell in love with it all.

The book picks up right where The Hidden Library left off. And for that, I am thankful. Like the previous books, this one does not disappoint. There is definitely action from the very beginning. 

I’ve had a flutter of butterflies that have taken residence within me since I started reading this book. The more I read, the more intense they felt. There were times when I felt like I was going to burst because of the intensity or suspense of the book. And that there is exactly what I look for in a book. Something that I can lose myself in. Something that can bring me to the edge of my seat and keep me wondering and hoping. 

I have to say, Heather has a gift; to tell a tale and twist many into one and still have a good outcome. I loved that we got to know the A.D. A LOT more! There is more to him than just being a Master Thief. There are more sides to him that Alice certainly noticed, although she didn’t admit to anyone. But she noticed, and coming from The Queen of Diamonds, that’s a lot to say. 

I absolutely loved Alice. Her attitude and the drive that she had to overcome the trials that they were presented with. I loved that she was able to develop and cultivate her relationship with Mary. I loved that they were both there for each other, and that they never gave up. They were both strong female characters that wouldn’t take no for an answer. 

The relationship between Alice and Finn was as good as or even better than the previous books. They both knew what they wanted and were willing to do anything for the other.

"Hold on, love. Even if it requires me moving heaven and earth, I will find a way to fix this. All I ask of you is to hold on."

There were moments that I wanted to cry because of what they were enduring as a couple. They had already been through so much, how either of them could handle more was beyond me. But they did. Because they had something that not many experience in their lives…

"True love encourages you to live."

 I do have to say, that the last chapter in this book gave me severe anxiety. So much so that I was in tears. I felt like I couldn’t breathe because of what was going on. I thought I was going mad/insane. I wanted to reach right into my iPad and pluck her out and set her straight. 

I enjoyed every bit of this book. From the main characters, to the minor ones. And the turn of events with everything that was going on and the attacks on the society. I seriously can’t wait for the next book to be released. This has turned out to be one of my favorite series. Thank you Heather for your gift, and for your willingness to share with us - your readers. 

The Song of David by Amy Harmon (6/23/15)

I contemplated reading this book. Not because I didn’t like it or the author. But because I knew with absolute certainty that it would gut me. And gut me it did. 

I’ve always been a huge Amy Harmon fan. My very first read by her was Making Faces. I was completely amazed by how beautiful that story was. 

So needless to say, I got my hands on any other book I could get of hers and completely immersed myself in the worlds that she offered us. 

She released a book – The Law of Moses not that long ago. I couldn’t put it down. I fell in love with everything in that book. It was there that we meet Tag. He’s a friend, brother, partner and companion to Moses. 

“We’d run away together as lost boys looking for Neverland…”

And I can totally see why the author would decide to give him his own story, or allow us, her readers to meet him – and get to know him better. 

We first meet him in a psych ward because he’s been trying to kill himself since he was about 18 years old. He meets Moses, and together they help each other fight their demons. I was very surprised with the friendship that they developed. It was beautiful. 

The story takes place about 1-1/2” years after The Law of Moses. 

I love the way in which Amy wrote this story. Absolutely Fantastic. Her character development is beyond anything that you could expect. She has such a way with words, where it takes a hold of you, and doesn’t let go. 

I kept wondering where she was taking us, not really sure what to expect, what with his history and all. Once I realized what was happening, my heart started breaking a little bit. 

You definitely get some pretty interesting characters, especially ones that tug at your heart. One of those is Henry, Amelie’s younger brother. I couldn’t help but like that kid. Amelie. I definitely wasn’t expecting what we got from her. She definitely took me by surprise in every possible way. I loved her. She was great.

The friendship and relationship between Tag and Amelie was fascinating. Everything just made you fall in love with him even more. 

“I felt like a man of a bygone era, a time when men would escort women, not because women couldn’t walk alone, but because men respected them more, because a woman is something to be cared for, to be careful with.”

Deep down, that big rugged muscle fighting man had a beautiful soul. 

The journey that we traveled was one of sorrow, pain, beauty – but they all lead to happiness. 

“You can’t see a song. You fell a song, you hear a song, you move to it. Just like I can’t see you, but I fell you, and I move toward you. When you’re with me, I feel like I glimpse a David nobody else knows is there. It’s the Song of David, and nobody else can hear it but me.”

I was completely and thoroughly pleased with this read. I really tried not to read it in one sitting but couldn’t help it. I wanted to savor it. I couldn’t stop or give up. It sucked me right in. 

I definitely like the way the book read – or more like the POV’s for this one. I won’t spoil it for you. 

It’s a definite must. Thank you Amy for another great book!

Here is the link for my review of The Law of Moses: http://roxysreadingcorner.blogspot.com/2014/12/the-law-of-moses.html

Never let you Go by Katy Regnery (6/16/15)

This book was introduced as a modern day retelling of “Hansel and Gretel:. I was immediately intrigued, so I decided to start it. 

You’re immediately thrown into a very scary situation in this book. I was terrified for Holden & Griselda. What made it worse was that they were 13 years old and were going through such a horrible thing. I wanted to cry. I wanted to reach into my book and hold them and comfort them. 

I like that for the first handful of chapters you/we alternate between the present and 10 years ago. The 10 years ago was such a bitter reading. Full of pain, sorrow and sadness. I had so much anger toward certain people. So much hate. 

I was very proud of Griselda for being courageous and being willing to keep going. I was also mad and pissed at her for thinking the way that she does and putting herself under those circumstances. I wanted to punch someone several times. 

I loved seeing Holden and Griselda and their sweet reunion. The history between them was sweet but painful. They went through a lot together and apart. Their trials were many and arduous, but the beauty in the story was that they went through and fought their battles together. As a team.

All in all, I absolutely loved this book. I loved the story-line and the characters. 

House of Royals by Keary Taylo (6/16/15)

I had the pleasure of receiving an ARC, in exchange for an honest review. 

I have read every single one of Keary Taylor’s books, and I can honestly say that I absolutely LOVE her work. I love her writing style and her character development. 

We immediately meet Alivia Ryan as she’s had to move her entire life to the small town of Silent Bend, Mississippi. She’s introduced to a whole new world where nothing is at it seems. What she does know is that the town is creepy and eerie and no one likes her, but that’s because of her families’ history in that town. 

We also meet Ian Ward, who happens to try and kill Alivia the very first time that they meet. The circumstances under which they meet are very interesting and scary. He’s young and handsome, and did I mention single? 

The chemistry between Alivia and Ian is beautiful and what they develop is even better. It’s such a sweet bitter moment/relationship for them because of who they are and what they will be, especially to each other in the near future. The time and moments that they do have together are amazing and I love that they are both willing to set aside everything else to have each other, for the time being. 

She does a great job of describing and giving us the story line, enough that I was able to picture everything that Alivia was experiencing. I think that she does a great job at giving us a paranormal story. And the fact that it deals with Vampires, um yes please. I enjoyed the twists that were laid out for us while reading this. 

We get to meet some other interesting characters, like Rath, her late fathers’ loyal servant. I’m still trying to figure out what the deal is with him. Hopefully we’ll be able to learn more about him in the next book. But the main ones and probably more important, other than Alivia and Ian are the Vamps that live in the House of Royals. 

I thoroughly enjoyed this book and am definitely looking forward to reading the next book in the series. I do have to say that the ending was something that I did NOT expect. My brain was trying to come up with things to make this right, hopefully I’m not too far off.  

Thank you Keary for the opportunity of reading this story! You’ve done it again!

King by T.M. Frazier (6/16/15)

I was on social media (possibly FB) when I came upon the link for King on a bloggers page. I was intrigued by the description and then realized that it was by an author that I enjoy, a lot. So I decided to purchase the book. 

I have to say that the last book I read by this author was The Dark Light of Day. I was completely astounded by her writing style and her character development. She was able to snatch me right up and tangle me within her story. And to be honest with you, I love that about an author. I love when they have the confidence in themselves that do as they please because they know that they’ll bring to us the readers, some kind of pleasure.

T.M. Frazier does not disappoint with this book. It’s a dark gritty tale that confused the hell out of me, but at the same time, I couldn’t stop reading it. Don’t get me wrong, it was enjoyable. It was confusing in the sense that I didn’t know what to expect, what was going to happen, or how it was going to play out.

The chemistry between the characters is exactly what I look for in a book. The pull that they have towards each other is sick in a way, but the sick that makes you want to keep reading. 

I was enthralled by King and his personality. He’s a force to be reckoned with, and we learn that when he’s about 12 years old. We immediately learn what, or who makes him what he is. He grew up under such crappy circumstances and had closed himself up, until Preppy came along. 

Boy did I enjoy Preppy and his out of this world personality. I loved who he was to King and what he did for him. I was kind of thrown off by his clothing attire choices (which explained the nickname that he got – Preppy). I loved his personality, and I loved how willing he was to befriend Doe and be there for her. I mean, he scared the crap out of her but he was honest with her. I enjoyed the friendship that they developed and how calm or good they were together. 

What to say about Doe without giving it away? Other than the fact that she has no memory of who she is or where she comes from? I feel bad for her. Her situation was a messed up one, but she tried her best. Granted, she didn’t make the smartest choices/decisions, but she tried. And you have to give her credit for that. 

The connection that King and Doe had was something else for me. She was terrified of him, and of what he could do, but she couldn’t help falling for him. And boy did she fall hard and fast. 

Like I said at the beginning, I was enthralled by this storyline. I couldn’t help but feel ecstatic every time that something was revealed because that lead us to learn more about Doe and where she came from. I was literally on the edge of my seat while I read this. I read the book in half a day, which is common for me, only if a book is REALLY good. I couldn’t put it down or walk away from it. Yes, it was dark and gritty and pretty wicked in some ways, but they were all good. 

I do have to say that this book leaves you with a cliffhanger. I felt like my stomach dropped, and I still feel that way. I went to bed wondering about the characters and how everything was going to play out. I had more questions than I had answers, but surprisingly enough, that didn’t piss me off. I was okay with it. Hopefully we can have the next book by mid-August.

Thank you Tracey for such a great and awesome read. You’ve done it again, and you left me speechless, literally after I finished this book. 

Trusting Liam by Molly McAdams (6/11/15)

I started this book because I was curious. Curious at what Molly had brought to life with these characters. Then I realized who they were and where they came from, and I was freaking ecstatic. I was beyond thrilled that those beautiful people (children) would get their own story. 

So needless to say that I delve right in and didn’t stop reading until I was done. It was that good. 

I have to be honest. I crazy sobbed when I first read Taking Chances. Like cried so bad that my husband was scared for me. I was completely heart-broken, and if you’ve read the book then you know what I mean. I was so mad at that ending, I didn’t want to understand and refused to believe what I had read. I decided that I would boycott Molly because how could she do that to someone? But then I saw the next book that she released and couldn’t help myself (because she is awesome at what she does). 

Anyways. I was beyond thrilled to know that we would get more, not Chase, but a part of him. And that was through Liam. Oh what a beautiful man that is. I mean, sure, he had his issues. But he was a great character. 

I really enjoyed Kennedy’s character as well. She was such an awesome tough girl. I love that she didn’t take crap from anyone. 

I think part of the beauty of this book is that it tied in (2) of her series. She did a really good job with that. 

The story definitely had an interesting twist, and if you want to know about it, then you’ll have to read it. Just know that it was worth the wait. It almost felt like closure. 

Thank you Molly for writing such a beautiful story and sharing it with us!

The Hidden Library by Heather Lyons (6/8/15)

After being captured by Heather Lyons in The Collectors Society, I couldn't wait to start The Hidden Library. It picks up right where it left off, which I absolutely appreciated. 

The one thing that I absolutely loved about this book is that we got to know more about Finn, and we got his POV which was awesome! 

"The past makes us who we are."

"It lets us mold the future. I would not be the same man sitting before you, had I not been who I was in my youth."

I was intrigued by him from the beginning. I mean, come on, it's Huckleberry Finn for goodness sakes!!! But grown up obviously. 

The romance between Alice and Finn is on point! I mean, it's everything that I could dream of and more. 

"This man here? He enchants me more. He kisses me, because he knows. He know me. He knows my heart. He has become part of my heart. My gravity pulls at his. His pulls at mine. We orbit one another, me and my north star, and I will be damned if anyone will ever tear us apart."

The distances that he went for her, literally, amazed me. The love, compassion, understanding, were beyond beautiful!!! 

The relationship/friendship that he developed with the White King was something else. 

"You must understand that my heart will always desire the Queen of Diamonds. Always."

I mean, they both loved her unconditionally, but only one could be with her. Obviously, the White King was man enough to step aside because he knew that the shared path that they had ended. She went one way, while he went another. And no, it wasn't like Finn was a second choice, because that was not the case. 

Of course there's also the whole society business that they have going on. Like always, the action in this book is awesome! 

I can't wait to get my hands on the Forgotten Mountain!!! 

"True love does not have limits or restrictions. True love allows a person to love deeply and unconditionally. True love does not ask you to let go of life. True love encourages you to love even more, Princess. True love encourages you to live."

Beautiful Redemption by Jamie McGuire (6/8/15)

Read 6/2/15-6/4/15

We briefly meet Thomas "Tommy" Maddox in Beautiful Disaster and Walking Disaster. But then, Beautiful Oblivion comes along, and... I don't even know what to say or think. He's also known as T.J.

I want to hate him for what he's done in the past, but he redeems himself in more ways than one. I feel bad for him because sometimes you can't help who you fall in love with, and I totally get it.

So needless to say, he has won my forgiveness (not that it matters). 

I enjoyed this book and the characters, especially Liis. She was freaking awesome. I absolutely love her character. 

I think that this book definitely tied in a lot of things that we left unanswered with some of the other Maddox brothers, which is definitely good. There is a lot that can be said about this Maddox, but what was "it" for me was how overprotective he was of his family, because he was the youngest when his mom dies, and was left with such a huge responsibility at such an age. Granted, he made mistakes, some of them huge; but he's human after all. 

Definitely enjoyed. Can't complain about the chemistry - among other things! Jamie didn't disappoint me as a reader. 

The Rancher by Kelli Ann Morgan (5/19/15)

Not too long ago I discovered a beautiful book written by Kelli Ann Morgan. And it has been literally begging me to write about what I read and what I experienced. 

You see, while reading this Historical Western, I met this character that goes by the name of Abby McCallister. I don't know how to describe her exactly, other than she's got an attitude and is a strong female (for the time period). Instead of prancing around in dresses and looking for a husband, she was out working with the horses in her ranch and helping the hand. It was awesome. She was a well written strong character. And I immediately liked her.

Unfortunately for Abby, her dad is trying to send her out of town so that she can learn how to be a lady. Which is completely ridiculous for her. She concocts a plan with her best friend and gets herself into some trouble. 

That trouble comes by the name of Cole Redbourne. I fell in love with that name. Seriously. Everyone believes that he's such a cold-hearted person. All he does is work his men hard and rough. He happens to "meet" Abby, and things get interesting. Deep down though, there is a man that is caring and loving and he would do anything to protect those he loves. 

Needless to say that this book was full of action and drama and of course, romance. Nothing inappropriate though. I loved every bit of this book. The characters were totally amazing. So much so, that I still think about them even though it's been a while since I read this. 

I have to say that Kelli Ann Morgan made a fan of me. I couldn't just stop with Cole, I had to go and meet his other brothers (Yes that was plural. There is more than 1 Redbourne boy/man). I liked them enough that I'll re-read them. 

The Longest Ride by Nicholas Sparks (5/19/15)

I jumped on the wagon of reading this book before I watched the movie, which is what I usually do for any Nicholas Sparks book. 

I immediately fell in love with the book. The characters were amazing. I'm still trying to decide if I fell more for Ira or Luke. It's pretty hard to decide. 

Ira, the Veteran who had so much love for Ruth. The one that was patient and shy and loving. The one that bid his time into courting Ruth. The one that was so likable, that his military companions loved hanging out with him. The man that was so smart. But then, there is Ira, the soft man. The one who was willing to give up a future that he could offer Ruth because he didn't think that he was worthy of her. He loved her so much that he was willing to let her go. There is also Ira the people-pleaser. I say this, because it seemed to me like he lived to please Ruth in every aspect of her life. 

Luke. Such a strong character. I loved him from the very first moment that I met him. I loved how he handled the situation with Brian, and he didn't over-do it. He was such a level headed person and so calm about everything. The man that took care of his mother, the ranch and all of his other responsibilities. Once I got to know more of his back story, I fell even more for him. I felt so bad for everything that he had gone through. Such a rough and hard life for someone so young. I do believe that he was a well written character though. 

I really enjoyed that we got multiple POV (and by this, I mean Luke, Ira & Sophia). That was pretty awesome. I like to know what each character is going through or what they are thinking at the exact moment. It definitely help tie in the two stories together. I kept wondering what the relation would be between Ira/Ruth and Luke/Sophia and how each would benefit from the other. 

The romance that was offered was very sweet. I like what we got and from whom we got it. Not too much, not too little. Just right. 

That ending. Can I just say WOW. I was shocked. Totally Shocked. 

I do have to say that like with any other Nicholas Sparks book, I cried. I felt my heart break several times. I got mad at some points. But then I was totally giggling/laughing at others.The emotions that he evoked from me as a reader are those that I expect a good book to get from me. I was definitely not disappointed. 

Oh, did I mention that I went the old fashion way with this book? I read the paper book for this one. I felt like I would be able to get more out of it than in my Kindle. Which I believe I did. 

The Collectors' Society by Heather Lyons (5/12/15)

I literally stumbled upon this beauty by accident. I happened to see an image of Heather Lyons "The Forgotten Mountain" which is the 3rd book in the Collector's Society Series, and fell in love with it, immediately! 

I started the Collectors Society not really knowing what I was getting myself into. What I do know is that Alice goes by Alice Reeves, and happens to be in an Asylum. There she is found by a Gentleman that goes by the name of Brom Van Brunt. He asks her to travel with her to New York City and that it is imperative for her to do so, to save Wonderland. That it is at risk. 

"You are asking me to be selfish" 

"Not at all" He towers over me. "I'm asking you to be strong and smart and brave, and to protect those who cannot protect themselves."

Like Alice of any world, she takes everything in stride. 

"Sometimes, we must deal with our problems head on in order to let them go."

"Sometimes life is more extraordinary than we might first imagine"

And I think that is why I fell in love with this Alice. Because yes, she was nuts, but she admitted it herself. She knew what she could handle and how much of it she could handle. 

"Sometimes our pasts are chains we cannot let go of, even if the key is in our hands. They define us in ways we resent, and yet they are somewhat precious, too. Because, logically, we understand that our pasts have made us who we are, even if we want nothing more to close our eyes to them."

I think I cried when I read this. I read this part several times, just to make sure that I had read it correctly. And what it says is true. 

I don't even think it is possible for me to describe the many ways in which this book spoke to me. I fell in love with Alice. I fell in love with Finn. I fell in love with Victor and Mary. I fell in love with The White King, because come on, how could you not. He sacrificed a lot once he realized that Alice had happiness in her life. 

"I will always do everything I can to ensure your happiness. Your happiness is my happiness, even if it means your heart is held in another's hands."

I love that there is action in this book. I like that Alice can take care of herself. That she's not some fragile girl that needs to be taken care of. 

I believe that this will be one of those books that will be a repeat for me. It's that good!

Eternal Eden by Nicole Williams (1/23/15)

The first time that I read this book was in July of 2011. I had just learned of what an Indy Author was a few months before and completely fell in love with what they did. 

I first came across Eternal Eden by chance. I didn't know of Nicole Wiliams or her work. So when I bought the book, I thought "Oh what the hell, why not give her a try if she's brave and willing to put her work out there." 

Since then, she has become one of my most favorite authors. 

I enjoyed Bryn's character, but not as much as William Hayward. She's had a pretty rough life as of recent, what with loosing her parents the same night that she had been shot. So she decides to move from Stanford University to a no name college in Oregon. There she tries to live a pretty low-level life where she can just blend in and hide and go through with the motions. 

She happens to meet William, and she KNOWS that there is more to him. From their very first encounter, she tries to run the opposite way because she's not sure of anything in her life. But William being who or more of what he is, he doesn't know how to give up.

"His eyes found me without searching the room, as if he knew exactly who I was and where I'd be." 

"I shivered - no doubt because I was still chilled - and tried to turn my eyes away. They wouldn't be deterred, something was overriding my system and keeping them grounded on him."

I absolutely loved how their relationship developed. They grew a friendship before they could move forward. It was rather sweet. 

"I promised I'd tell you when I found something big enough for me to make another change in my life... I've found it."

"As have I."

I loved their love story. It's one of my most favorite ones. It's one that has stuck with me through time. I've gone back and re-read it several times since the first time. But what is great, is that every time that I read it, I fall in love even more with the characters.