Review: Always Mine (St. Fleur #2) - AJ Renee

Title: Always Mine (St. Fleur #2)
Author: AJ Renee
Date(s) Read: March 26-28, 2017
Pages: 275
Format: Digital (Kindle)
Rating: 4.5

Review:

I was provided a copy of this book for review as a stop on the Blog Tour, in exchange for an honest review.  I would like to thank AJ Renee, the publisher, and Hea Book Tours for giving me the opportunity to read this book prior to its release on 3/29.

This book is the second book in the St. Fleur series and the second novel by author AJ Renee.  So far, she is two for two, when it comes to this series.  If she keeps going like this, this is easily going to become one of my favorite series, and with the number of books that I read, that is not a judgment that is passed lightly!  She is definitely one of those authors that I will always one-click to add their books to my kindle, and if I happen to have the extra money, own her books in print.

After reading her debut novel, Widower's Aura, I was definitely looking forward to the story of Linsey and Marc.  Their story is one that quickly became my favorite, the flashbacks that showed us how their attraction started and continue to grow - since Marc was best friends with Andrew, Lindsey's brother they grew up together.  However, it was the addition of the mystery and suspense that also drew me into the story.  Lindsey's stalker, and the clues and hints that are dropped so artfully throughout the story definitely help pull you in and make you want to finish it.

Oh, the chemistry between Marc and Lindsey is unmistakeable...however, I cannot count the number of times I wished I could grab them by the shoulders, shake them and yell..."USE YOUR WORDS!!!  TALK TO EACH OTHER!!" because it would no doubt make things so much easier at times. Despite their bumps in the road, I greatly enjoyed watching this couple grow, as well as the catch up with Sofia and Nick.

So, if you're looking for your next romance read with a bit of suspense and some great story telling, I definitely recommend you pick up Widower's Aura and Always Mine, plus any other books that are part of the St. Fleur series by AJ Renee.  You won't be disappointed and you might just find your next favorite read!

Review: Fire and Gold

Title: Fire and Gold
Author: Mara Amberly
Format: e-book
Pages: 189
Date(s) read: Oct 10-12, 2016
Rating: 4.5

Summary:

Sisters by birth, heroes by choice! In the city of Kalle, Cassia and Alexa are priestesses of the Sisters of Destiny, an order of female sorcerers. While absent from the temple, their home is attacked and the sisters return to find it ablaze; many of their fellow priestesses slain. Barely escaping alive, the sisters face an uncertain future, unsure of who they can trust.

Review:

I was given a copy of this book by the author in exchange for an honest review.

When I was approached with this particular novel, I wasn't entirely certain what to think.  I'm a sucker for a good fantasy novel, however, I'm not entirely sure I was willing to commit to another series (because we all know I'll end up reading the entire series once it's out....because you know, that's the only logical thing to do).  I was honestly, pleasantly surprised by this story.

Mara  Amberly's writing is fantastic, and very reminiscent of some of my favorite fantasy writers. I love the world she has crafted in this fantasy novel, the characters are believable, relatable, and definitely among my favorites.  Without giving too much away, the plot is actually well developed and I hope that Amberly is able to keep the drive from this story going in the subsequent stories in this series.

There is a passage from this story that stands out to me, I'm not entirely sure why it does, however it has become one of my favorite small passages in the story.  To me it is a point that Cassia  realizes that not only does she want justice, no, vengence, but she also wants to protect others from the hatred, the hurt, the damage that could further be done by the Nemorans who had already done unspeakable things to her sisters, the priestesses.  I've included that particular quote below.

Cassia wondered about hatred and that fire of anger that smouldered inside of her, wanting to see the Nemorans slaughtered for what they did to her sisters. She didn’t just want justice, she wanted vengeance. Yet, she felt that went beyond hatred into hurt and the desire to protect others from their violence.

Ultimately, I would highly recommend this book to anyone who is looking for a new author and has a love for Andre Norton or Marian Zimmer Bradley.  This story will keep you on your toes, and leave you begging for more by the time the last word is read.

Review: Death's Servant

Title: Death's Servant
Author: C.J. Ellisson
Format: Kindle (E-book)
Pages: 119
Date(s) read: Oct 15-18, 2016
Rating: 3.5

Summary:  Jonathan Winchester has clashed with his alpha one too many times.  After antoher argument he leaves the Manitoba pack, the only home he'd known since the werewolf attack that had changed his life.  He returns to Virginia.  Eventually Jon finds work and meets Raine, who appears to be a lone werewolf, too.  Things are not as they appear and Jon ends up in a danger bigger than he can handle.

Review:

I was given a copy of this book by the author in exchange for an honest review.

This is a prequel novel in the VV Inn series by Ellisson.  IT is also the first book I've read in this series.  While it was good, however, it wasn't entirely my cup of tea.  I am always open for a good supernatural read.  Supes have always been one of my favorite things.  I love the different take on the mythos of each of the more common supernaturals that appear in stories (vampires, werewolves, zombies, et cetera) - though to be honest, the only mythos I didn't entierly find plausable was the one where vampries sparkle in the sunlight - just don't get it.

Anyway, tangent aside, I did love the background story created on how Jonathan met Raine, Vivian and Rafe.  Eventually I might pick up the other books in the series.  However, with the perpetual growth of my TBR pile, I'm not certain when they will eventually make their way into my hands to read.

As this is a prequal to the V V Inn series, I did feel like some things were missing.  Things weren't fully developed.  It doesn't help someone actually get to know the characters if they aren't already familiar with the cast from the main novels in the series.  It honestly is better suited to readers who are already familiar with the novel's cast of characters and have questions about Jonathan's backstory before he came to the V V Inn.

Needless to say, the fact that this story didn't have much meat to it, was not a turn off to Ellisson's writing.  No, in fact I quite liked the writing and I do ultimately look forward to having a chance to read more of her writing.

Review: Assassin's Lament

Title: Assassin's Lament
Author: Michael Carins
Format: Ebook
Pages: 329
Date(s) Read: March 2-3,2016
Rating: 3.5

Summary: 

Aryan was born to a whore. He always wished something would change, something would happen.  Well, Night of Blood came, and well...Aryan got his wish.  Now, Aryan searches for a myth that no one believes in any longer.  Wildlands controlled by walkers, and only fools leave the wall's safety. It takes a fool to see what others are too afraid of.  It takes an assassin to do what others can't...or won't. 

Review: 

I was given a copy of this book by the author in exchange for an honest review.  Thank you for the opportunity to review your work Mr. Carins. 

This is a coming of age story, mingled with romance, tragedy and quite a bit of action. We've got a healthy chunk of swords, zombies, kingdoms, assassins, blood, war....and perhaps an unhealthy dose of guilt.  However, it is, in my opinion worth the read. 

The plot is an interesting one, and I enjoyed following Aryan and his friends throughout their journey and discovery.  It is engaging and I am looking forward to reading more of this trilogy to be honest, because I want to know what happens!  Seriously...like, I am attached to these characters and desperately want to know what happens.  This is what my book OCD and series commitments do to me. 

There are a few negatives, and the book perhaps could benefit from a bit more rigorous editing.  However, this does not ultimately detract from the story that is presented to the reader.  The use of 'walkers' did kind of throw me for a bit, and that is probably because I am a fan of The Walking Dead.  However, it was that tie, that I was able to kind of figure out that the walkers outside the wall were indeed undead.  I am not as proprietary of that word as some people might be, because it is a fitting word for what zombies are...walkers.  

There are moments that almost can make you feel that you are in a high fantasy version of an episode of The Walking Dead, however I have a feeling this only enhances the story and to be honest I doubt I will look at another episode of The Walking Dead without turning it into some sort of high fantasy adventure.  This cross-over imagery makes me happy and does fun things to my imagination.  So, this was definitely a plus for this particular story.  

Overly British.  This does not displease me, as I know it might displease some.  I absolutely adore all things British for the most part.  Downton Abbey is by far one of my favorite series, and you honestly can't get more British than that...well you probably can, but you get my point.  I like that this particular high fantasy story tends to shy away from the more neutralized English used in most, it adds a more unique aspect to the story and makes it, at least for me more enjoyable.  

The scenes involving the guild are some of my favorites, and the healthy doses of humor mixed in are definitely awesome.  The action scenes are well written.  However, consider yourself warned....CLIFFHANGER.  So, you can wait for the rest of the series, or you could join my suffering in waiting for the next book. 

Review: Moment of Impact

Title: Moment of Impact
Author: Rene D. Schultz
Format: Ebook (Kindle)
Pages: 248
Date(s) Read: Feb 23, 2016
Rating: 4

Summary: 
Seven people on a train to Los Angeles.  Each holds their own story.  However, a moment of impact...a train crash will forever change their lives and alter their stories.  

Review: 

I was generously given a copy of this book by the author in exchange for an honest review.

OH MY FEELS!  Just saying.  Rarely will I sit through a book that makes me cry this much and finish it in one sitting.  I think the last one I did that with was John Green's The Fault in Our Stars and this one made me cry just as much.  Seriously. 

This story involves seven people.  Their lives forever changed by a singular moment of impact:  a train crash.  Some live to continue their story.  Some find the ending of their story.  No one knows what will come.  Seven people who chose to step on that train.  Seven people who will have their lives changed beyond any hope of repair.  Not all the changes are for the better. 

The characters in this book are intense and crafted so beautifully that you are thrown into their world.  Suffer with them.  Find yourself as helpless as they are in that moment of impact.  It is almost as if you are standing there watching the events unfold right in front of you.  

You can find the heart and soul that Rene pours into each and every one of her works in this book.  I would highly recommend checking out other books by this author, though I would make certain that you have plenty of tissues available because the roller coaster ride of emotions in her books will ensure that you need them.  

Thank you Rene for allowing me a chance to read this book and offer an honest review.  

Review: Bishop Street

Title: Bishop Street
Author: Rene D. Schultz
Format: Ebook (Kindle)
Pages: 333
Date(s) Read: Oct. 06 - 15, 2013 
Rating: 4.5 (Originally a 3) 

Summary: 
Margaret Gray for the past twenty years remained hidden behind a facade of normalcy.  Riches and fame weren't always hers.  At seven she was dropped off at the Bishop Street Orphanage.  Beneath the cruel hand of Sister Theresa she forms a bond with her roommates.  At thirty-nine the nightmares return, and she hires a private detective to find her friends, starting a journey that will test her strength of character.  

Review: 

I was given a copy of this book by the author in exchange for an honest review.

I had been slacking on getting this one done, mainly because even so many months later it has stuck with me.  Rene is one of those writers that you cannot read her books without having tissues handy, kinda like when I'm reading anything John Green...seriously, all the feels and all the tears. 

Originally I'd given this book a 3, however in going back over this book and re-reading a few things I've changed my ultimate review to a 4.5 because I believe it was worth the bump up.  

This is a book that will leave you with goosebumps and quite a few shed tears.  However, it is a heartwarming story that will leave you with a warm feeling of joy by the time the final word is read.  I spent many times unable to put the book down (to the dismay of my roommates and my own hunger) when I was reading it because I couldn't actually tear myself away from this story.  

I love the style of writing that Rene offers, her skill allows each and every character room to breathe and express themselves and ultimately entrench themselves within our hearts and minds.  Her characters are very real and very much vivid as you read through her work.  

Thank you Rene for ultimately offering me a chance to read this book and offer my words (even though I'm quite a bit late getting this review to you!)

Review: The Society

Title: The Society
Author: William Wilde
Format: E-book
Pages: 289
Date(s) Read: June 30-July 5, 2015
Rating: 3

Summary: A detective investigates a secret women's society linked to unexplained deaths. 

Review: 
I was given a copy of this book by the author in exchange for an honest review.  Thank you for the opportunity to review this book. 

Honestly, not even six months later, and I'm drawing a blank on the majority of this book.  Very little actually stuck with me as to why I gave it three stars.  I must have liked and enjoyed something about it to have given it three stars.  Yet, at the same time I do not honestly have the drive or the desire to read it again.  I know that there was a point where I very nearly added it to my do not finish list, however I pressed forward and actually did finish it.  

There needed to be a bit more development, and it also struck me as a bit too much like Death Becomes Her or something along those lines.  Very rarely has a book left such a non-impression on me.   I hate saying it, but I wish I could truly put my finger on just why I am so very meh about this book. 

Review: Death Eater Collection by Catherine Stovall

Title: Death Eater (The Complete Collection)
Author: Catherine Stovall
Format: E-book
Pages: 
Date(s) Read: November 25-28, 2015
Rating: 4.5/5

Summary: A story about a girl, a boy and the devil himself.  Thirteen lives are lived.  Twelve deaths mourned.  They have one chance left.  19 year old Vega Williams struggles against the pull and promise of death.  Her protector and guardian Zane strains against the chains of hell.  Both are cursed by Eurynome to live and love and die by their own demons.  Can they save each other and prove that love can survive anything, even death?

Review: 
I was given this collection by the author in exchange for an honest review.  Thank you Catherine for the opportunity to once again delve into this world. 

Story 1: Condemned to Die - 4 stars
This is our introduction to Vera Williams and her guardian Zane.  This is the story that made me fall in love with them.  Hands down.  This is by far a fantastic story of revenge for love, and I continue to re-read it as often as I can because I adore the relationship between Vera and Zane.  There is a lot more I could say about this one, but I'm not for one to give away spoilers.  I would highly recommend delving into this world and falling in love with this couple. 

Story 2: Destined to Live - 4 Stars
This story is Vera's last life.  There has to be a loophole.  There has to be something that can be done.  Zane finds a loophole.  However, the demon does what he does best and proceeds to torment Vera, making her relive each time she'd taken her life...all twelve times.  Then as he is in control, ensures that she wants to end her life thus wasting her last life.  I am all the more in love with Zane and Vera. 

Story 3: Fated to Return - 4.5 Stars
OH. EM. GEE.  I did not expect that conclusion.  Deceptive blurb concerning Vera and Zane's hunt for answers only added to the wonderfulness of this story.  The groundskeeper...interesting little thing that turned into a surprise.  The battle that happened, perhaps could have been a touch grander - but was still awesome none the less.  Despite a couple of things that came up that made me briefly go huh, this book ended up getting the highest rating of the three.  I highly recommend this series to anyone who wants a first glimpse into the work of Catherine Stovall. 

Thank you again for the opportunity to read and review this series! Absolutely loved every moment of it! 

Review: Saving Georgia by Kristin Flynn

Title: Saving Georgia

Author: Kristin Flynn

Format: E-book (Kindle)

Date Read: November 10-11, 2013

Rating: 4/5

Recommend: Definitely

Summary: Senior year isn't supposed to suck, but the normal stresses of Senior year, for a girl who suffers mental and emotional issues the normal stresses are compounded and feel like torture. This is Georgia's life. Orphaned and tortured, she finally has found some peace and is thrown into a love triangle between a cowboy and the popular quarterback. Will Georgia be able to choose who she wishes to persue a relationship with or will she crumble under the pressure as prom and graduation lurk just around the corner.

Review:
I was given an ARC of this book by the Author in exchange for an honest review.

OH MY GOODNESS! I devoured this book in a matter of hours truth be told. I don't think I actually slept and just read it straight through in one sitting. It was that good. I was instantly sucked into the story spun by Kristin Flynn, and am desperately waiting for the next book in this series, which will no doubt have me just as sucked into Georgia's story.

The characters are absolutely fantastic, and even if I were a normal girl, trying to decide between the two guys vying for Georgia's attention would be a difficult decision! The characters are so well written and make me want to have them in my life. Seriously.

I do not have any complaints about this book at all, and I would greatly recommend this story to anyone who loves strongly created characters. We've all known someone like the mean girls in this story, the hot male best friend, the hot quarterback, and even the reformed mean girl.

Okay, I lied, I have one complaint...THAT CLIFF HANGER ENDING!! I want more damn it, seriously give me more. Next book please! I advise you to also check out the playlist that goes with this book, it's a really good one and definitely fits the story crafted by Kristin Flynn.

Can't wait for book two to get here.

Review: One Night with You by Toni Dare

Title: One Night with You
Author: Toni Dare
Format: E-book (Kindle)
Date Read: August 7, 2013
Rating: 4/5

Recommend: Yes

Summary: Cass Jones is a plus-sized fashion designer. By accident or fate she meets heart-throb Andreas Katsakis and after one night she flees in Cinderella-esque fashion, leaving behind a signature piece of her clothing line.

Review:

I was given a copy of this book by the author in exchange for an honest review.

In this steamy Cinderella-esque story that starts with a hotel room mix-up, an expensive suite is double booked, and originally it had been booked to millionaire Andreas Katsakis and then booked for Cass Jones for the night after she pitched her plus-sized clothing line.

The mistake was discovered when Andreas arrives and after a shower climbs into bed only to find it occupied by Miss Jones. After a steamy sexual encounter Cass flees, leaving behind a signature nightgown from her collection, and leaving many questions unanswered for Andreas.

This book easily captured my attention and sucked me into the story. Toni Dare has a flare for the erotic, and her writing style is one that will keep you captivated from beginning to end.

The only complaint I have with this story is some of the time jumps are jarring and tend to pull me briefly from the story. It isn't horrible but it is noticeable. Also, it is short! I want more of the steaminess between Cass and Andreas! They are a fantastic couple and I do hope that Toni revisits them again!  

Review: Finding Sanity by T.R. Stoddard

Title: Finding Sanity

Author: T.R. Stoddard
Format: E-book (Kindle)

Date Read: July 11-15, 2013
Rating: 4/5

Recommend: Yes!

Summary: Waking up in solitary confinement is never fun for anyone, and Randall is no exception. He is subjected to relive crucial moments from his past until he finds himself out on his own, free. Deciphering what is real vs. fantasy is half the fun. He finds new love, but as always an old flame complicates things. His reality and fantasy worlds collide putting him in a very compromising position. Can he make it out with his relationships intact? (Taken from Goodreads page)

Review: I was given the chance to read this book in exchange for an honest review from the author.

This book was fantastic, if not a little confusing at times. The level of insanity is very much believable, and it will keep you interested as we follow Randall's day to day life. The interactions between Randall and Allison were interesting as well and will keep you wondering if they are both homicidal maniacs. Stoddard's deliverance of this novel was above and beyond fantastic, a wonderful job and well admired.

Was this all just a figment of Randall's imagination or was it real? That is for the reader to determine as they read. Each page has you wondering what will happen next, continually guessing and wondering what new venture will spawn from Randall's insanity. However, Randall isn't the only member of his family that is 'strange,' his mother and brother are strange as well. Was Mr. Snuggiekins all that Randall really had in the end?

Two words that come to mind when reading this story spun by Stoddard, and that is “bloodthirsty psychopaths.” They are there and the action that surrounds them will keep you on the edge of your seat. This ride is not for the weak of heart, not for those who cannot tolerate intensity, and those who do not like a bone chilling tale. If you are eager to share someone else's insanity, then “Finding Sanity” is definitely for you.  

Review: Ripple: A Tale of Hope and Redemption

Title: Ripple: A Tale of Hope and Redemption
Author: E.L. Farris

Format: E-Book (Kindle)

Date Read: August 7-18, 2013

Rating: 4/5

Recommend: Yes

Summary: When high-powered attorney Helen Thompson discovers that her fifteen-year old daughter has been sexually assaulted, she takes drastic measures. Finding herself in trouble, Helen must relinquish control and put her faith in a process she knows to be flawed.
As a team of lawyers, therapists and women from a safe house help Helen and Phoebe find hope and healing, a sociopath lurks, waiting for his moment to strike. (Taken from Goodreads page)

Review: I was given this book for free by the author in exchange for an honest review.

I adored this book. I am usually not a fan of women's lit, however, this book captivated me from start to finish. The heartache, the struggle, the suffering of these characters is something that will haunt me. The glimpses inside Phoebe's head after she'd been sexually assaulted by someone she trusted, cared for is haunting and moving. The guilt that Helen experiences is mesmerizing in its reality.

Reading stories that deal with this delicate subject are difficult and can often go horribly, horribly wrong. However, this is not the case with this story. Kudos for E.L. Farris' handling this subject fantastically. The fact that it is such a familiar case for Cassandra, and it begins to dredge up her own memories, and not the happy kind either makes it all the more a thrilling story. The ending of this tale of survival was not what I initially expected, and my initial reaction was...WHY IS THERE NO VERDICT?! And the reason it didn't happen was....Nope, gotta read it to find out why because this reviewer is so not telling. Sorry kiddies.

The blurb, the summary does not give this story justice, it cannot do so without giving away important information that decidedly can be classified as spoilers! I would like to thank E.L. Farris for giving me the opportunity to read and review her book. Definitely check this out, you will not regret it.  

Review: Living in the Dark by Rebekah Campbell

Title: Living in the Dark

Author: Rebekah Campbell

Format: E-book (Kindle)

Read: December 26, 2012

Rating: 4/5

Recommend: Yes!

Summary: Experiences can make us or break us and it's no different for sixteen-year-old, Emily. 
Living under the roof of her abusive Uncle, Emily is brutally attacked by a gang and wakes up from a coma with no recollection of the accident.
As the amnesia starts to clear, Emily realises that her memory is not the only thing coming back to her from the accident. There's also a wild, angry power that she has to control before it destroys her and everyone else. 
So the question remains: Will Experience make her or break her?

Review: I was given a copy of this in e-book format in exchange for an honest review. Thank you Ms. Campbell for the chance to read your book.

This debut novel by Ms. Campbell is a fast read, a phenomenal read to be sure. Emily, sweet Emily's life has been turned into a nightmare. This page turning novel will keep you wondering exactly what's behind her strange and out-of-character bursts of violence. Emily is the target of bullies.

The ending will have you wondering what the hell, where is the rest? Why? Just why did she choose to end it this way?! Were is the rest?! God knows I had the same thoughts and had a conversation with myself in public, that this was how she chose to end it, that it is what it is. This is what Ms. Campbell created in her debut novel, and if it is going to give me a complex then so be it. I will just have to wait to see if she once more revisits Emily and her story, or if I'm going to be left hanging.

My only complaint is that it could be a little bit longer, but that's probably the only complaint I have (aside from the fact that it made me crazy for weeks!).

Review: Dream Team (Dream Seeker's #2) by Lisa Ard

Title: Deam Team

Author: Lisa Ard

Format: E-book (Kindle)

Read: Dec 30, 2012

Rating: 4/5

Recommend: 3rd grade and up.

Summary: For Patrick, being twelve years old can be challenging. Add to that the unusual ability to experience dreams as reality and you begin to understand, why Patrick never knows what will happen when he falls asleep. When Patrick's voice begins to change, he declares disaster! But one magnificent dream will introduce Patrick to some real-life heroes, who faced far greater adversity. Patrick discovers that his troubles are minor league in comparison. Will Patrick find the courage to face his fears?

Review: I was given this book by the author in exchange for an honest review. This book set my book OCD off, but it was alright. I just have to get the first one in the series – because it gnaws on me when I read books in the wrong order. Drives me absolutely batty really.

This is a cute middle grade read, and it is great to read with your child. It has a lot of adventure that is sure to hold interest, and the pacing is fantastic. It is not too complex for them to comprehend as a beginning, and it is a good read for advanced readers.

I give kudos to Ms. Ard for her devleopment of the sibling relationships in this series. This is about a family of “Dream Seekers” whose dreams are experienced in reality. In this book, Patrick is being coached by his teenaged sister Grace, and she helps him improve his confidence and dream-seeking skills. The conflict between them is realistic, and is something that I can expect to hear between my roommate's children or me and my sister when we were their age.

Review: Saving Halloween by Lisa Ard

Title: Saving Halloween

Author: Lisa Ard

Format: E-book (Kindle)

Read: Dec 29-30, 2012

Rating: 3/5

Recommend: For 3rd Grade and Up.

Summary: When book-smart Anne Parson meets Halloween Spavento, she sees exactly what she wants to see -- a friend. Halloween waves away trouble, magically silences school bullies and offers Anne unfailing friendship. But, when the Spavento family's enchanting exploits are exposed, will Anne face her fears and save Halloween?

Review: I had received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.  Anne's parents had high expectations from her. They ensured that she did well in school, but weren't the kind of parents who would spend a lot of time with her. She didn't have friends, and in fact she was a target for bullies, that is until Halloween Spavento and her family. The townsfolk like the Spaventos despite their eccentric hobbies, well everyone except the bullies. Anne does end up becoming good friends with Halloween, and the strange traditions (talking to deceased relatives) don't bother her.

However, thanks to Mrs. Spavento, who overhears the bullies talking in a shop, saying that they “hate Halloween,” and she thinks that they mean the holiday, not her daughter, they will be planning and hosting the best Halloween party the town has ever seen!

I did like this middle grade story, and I do like how Ms. Ard tells her story, however I did find this book a little lacking and I can't entirely put my finger on just why that is. But, it is a good read for a young advanced reader, and definitely as a good balance of spooky and not spooky. Definitely a good book to read around Halloween.   

Review: Call of the Herald by Brian Rathbone

Title: Call of the Herald

Author: Brian Rathbone

Format: Kindle (E-book)

Read: Dec 19-26, 2012

Rating: 4/5

Recommend: Yes.

Summary: "Echoes of the ancients' power are distant memories, tattered and faded by the passage of eons, but that is about to change. A new dawn has arrived. Latent abilities, harbored in mankind's deepest fibers, wait to be unleashed. Ancient evils awaken, and old fears ignite the fires of war" This quote summarizes this story quite well, and is the blurb on Goodreads.

Review: I was given a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. My thanks to the author for supplying this book to me.

Epic fantasy is something that I enjoy greatly. This was definitely one of the books that will make it on my favorite fantasy lists, I'm not sure which list it will end up on, but it will end up there. Mr. Rathbone's writing makes me feel like I am reading something by Tolkien or Terry Brooks. It has the feel of Lord of the Rings, Shinnara and even touches of Paolini's Eragon saga mixed through it. It was comfort read for me, because I enjoy all three of these series and to find someone that has combined them so well, has made me quite pleased.

This particular novel is comprised of three stories, where you are emersed in Godsland and weave the story of Catrin Volker, revealed to be the Herald of Istra, as well as the stories of her companions and Guardians.

Catrin's story is mesmerizing, and I find myself addicted to the weaving of her tale. She is a teenager when the discovery of her newly awakened power sends her on a journey, the end result of this journey – to save all of Godsland. You are immediately drawn into the story and Rathbone's writing keeps you lodged within this world he has crafted. Occasionally, there are touches of speech that is too modern for the time period crafted, but they are few and far between and easily passed over when they occur.

The story is highly detailed and at times can get difficult to follow, but it is that level of detail that makes this epic adventure all the more impressive. The points of view shift through out the story, and and there are times when you need to stop and think to remember where a certain character fit into the story, but ultimately everything is well written, well composed and an engaging and fantastical read.

I am eager to sink myself into the next book in this series, The Dawning of Power has certainly become part of me. Will Rathbone continue Catrin's story, that has yet to be seen, but the door is indeed left open to the possibility of it occuring. You will find yourself becoming attached to the characters much like I did.

Review: Reflection by Jessica Roberts

Title: Reflection

Author: Jessica Roberts

Format: Kindle (E-book)

Read: May 25-26, 2012

Rating: 4/5

Recommend: Yes.

Summary: Bright, spunky Heather Robbins has escaped her small hometown and is anxiously beginning her freshman year of college. Rising above her rocky childhood, she’s found a place where good things are finally starting to happen: her own private apartment, refreshing college classes, and an intense attachment to a mysterious and rugged classmate, Nick Richards.

Review: I was given a copy of this book by the author in exchange for an honest review.

This book is highly enjoyable, and I couldn't tear myself away from the pages, which is why it ended up taking me a little less than a day to finish (I think I'd probably finished it in about 12-hrs give or take breaks to deal with that pesky thing known as life).

The story is cleverly written and you live Heather's story with her – trying to connect the dots to untangle what is real and what is part of the coma-created dream life. The most heart-wrenching part of this story is Heather's struggle to figure out if her first love was reality or if it was another result of that coma-created dream.

You will suffer the trials and tribulations of Heather's journey, empathize with her as she struggles to separate dream from reality. You will find that in the end, Heather's journey has only begun. I won't give away spoilers, but I will highly recommend this book to anyone who loves a captivating story.

Most Feared: How I Met My Wife by Aim High

Title: Most Feared: How I Met My Wife

Author: Aim High

Format: E-book (Kindle)

Read: Jan 25, 2013

Rating: 2/5

Recommend: Maybe

Summary: Five year army veteran 1st Sergeant Trent Long and Pinkerton Agent, thought being set-up, charged, tried and convicted for murder and attempted stagecoach robbery of 2 million dollars in US gold was the worse thing that could happen to him. Little did he know that it was only just the beginning.

Review:

I was given this book by the author in exchange for an honest review.

Honestly, I could not get into this book. I tried and I tried, and I tried through each and every word, each and every paragraph. All of it, it was a struggle to read through, and I couldn't do it. The sex scenes were good, but I simply couldn't wrap my head around this one.

It is very well written, and I will admit that I did enjoy the sex scenes, but more often than not I was pushing myself through each scene that didn't involve sex. I'm not entirely sure what else I can say about this one.

Review: Steel and Lace by Adriane Leigh

Title: Steel and Lace

Author: Adriane Leigh

Format: E-book (Kindle)

Read: Jan 25, 2013

Rating: 4/5

Recommend: Yes.

Summary: Carter Morgan is a wealthy CEO and playboy, who almost always has a model on his arm and very rarely lets anyone into his heart. He usually gets what he wants when he wants until he meets Eva Austin. That's when the sparks fly.

Review: I was given a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.

This story is a short, quick read and unfortunately it does leave me wanting more. Needing more between Carter and Eva. It does tend to leave me wanting, to a point, but do enjoy the short glimpses that I get in the relationship between Eva and Carter.

I do understand that it is to be a four part novella series, that comprise about a 300 page read when all is said and done, and am not entirely keen on this particular way of writing a series, but it works for some. I do love the fact that it was a quick read, and it was decidedly in your face and fantastically written and well crafted.

The sex scenes within this novella are fantastic and had my mind whirling at about a thousand naughty thoughts a second, which is definitely a good thing! The heat is there, oh very much so, and I love me some heat. It is a unique combination of Christian Grey and Gideon Cross which tends to send my libido into overdrive – really. I'm not joking here.

So, do I recommend this book, based on the first installment of the novella, decidedly so. I will be looking for the remaining parts of this series.   

Review: Don't Ask, Don't Tell by T.R. Stoddard

Title: Don't Ask, Don't Tell

Author: T.R. Stoddard

Format: E-book (Kindle)

Read: July 18-20

Rating: 4/5

Recommend: YES!

Summary: Freshman journalism student Rachael Ainsley goes undercover at a Moorevile High, in the Bible Belt portion of the nation. As High School Senior Cassie Rae, she befriend the gayest boy in the school, to begin her tell-al expose, and hoping to drastically alter the Gay Rights Movement. Will Rachael meet her deadline, or will she be exposed before she has a chance to do some good?

Review: While Rachael is looking for a good story, she is also looking to make a difference with her writing. A chance to make a difference comes when a high school near her hometown begins instituting a “Don't Ask, Don't Tell” policy. The policy at Mooretown High is designed to discourage any of the students from pursuing, or even admitting their true sexuality.

Rachael takes the undercover identity of Cassie Rae, in hopes that she can not only get the article she wants, but can drastically change the policy that has been implemented in this school. The faculty have taken the policy to extreme measures, ensuring that those with “gay tendencies” also end up in a place called Reformation Hall. Rachael is one of those that is sent to this place, and she befriends many of them.

This is by far different than T.R. Stoddard's usually darker passages, but it is no less riveting and is most definitely going to keep your eyes glued to each and every page. Zane and Vinnie's story and struggle is heartbreaking, and you will find strength in Rachael's will to help those around her who are suffering because of the intolerance of those around them.

Thank you so much T.R. Stoddard for allowing me to read and review this fantastic book!