ARC Review & Giveaway: Fairy Godmothers, Inc. by Jenniffer Wardell

Fairy Godmother, Inc.

by Jennifer Wardell

YA - Fairy Tale - Romance
*Debut Novel*

Published April 27, 2013 by Jolly Fish Press

Paperback - 272 Pages

*ARC Print Copy Obtained Directly From Publisher In Exchange For An Honest Review*

Synopsis via Goodreads:

In a world where fairy tale situations are as much a fact of life as death and taxes, everyone knows hiring Fairy Godmothers, Inc. is the best way to assure that your beautiful daughter or enchanted frog of a grandson will get the happily-ever-after he or she deserves. Sure, sometimes a little love potion is required to make sure those quotas stay up, but what Prince Charming doesn’t know won’t hurt him.

Kate, an experienced Fairy Godmother, who’s enough of a romantic to frustrate her rigidly rule-bound boss, has just received a specialty assignment from one of the company’s board of directors. Cinderella—Rellie for short—was placed with an appropriately wicked stepfamily years before, and now needs the dress, ball, and handsome prince to complete her happily-ever-after. The fact that Rellie isn’t sure this is her dream come true—balls are fun, but princes tend to be less interesting than fluffy bunnies—isn’t something management considers a problem.

Complicating things a bit is Jon, the youngest son of the royal family, who meets Kate, and is smitten, but isn’t quite ready yet to reveal his true identity. After all, it’s his older brother Rupert who’s supposed to marry Rellie, which means pretending to be a lowly civil servant will give him the chance to spend more time with Kate. (As long as he can get the ball arranged, and stop Rupert from getting himself into trouble over his “self-actualization” business, he should have the perfect opportunity to explain everything and get started on making a little magic with the Fairy Godmother of his dreams.)

But, of course, things never ever happen as planned...

More Information on this title - Go to Jolly Fish Press

Grab Your Copy:

Barnes & Noble
Amazon

About the Author:

Jenniffer Wardell is a fantasy romance author and general fairy godmother-at-large. She's always on the lookout for witty dialogue and a well-earned happily-ever after.

Connect with the Author:
 Goodreads  Facebook    Twitter    Blog   Tumblr







My Review:

Want to know something funny? Cinderella was one of my least favorite fairy tales growing up. I never had a thing for frilly dresses & being a princess. With that being said, this spin on Cinderella was the best thing since, well, since glass slippers that don't break! LoL

I absolutely, positively adored this novel. The spin on the old fashion Cinderella tale plus the spin on Fairy Godmothers being a company that pretty much mimics Cupid - Brilliant!

I laughed so many times out loud (probably a few snort laughs in there because it was THAT funny). A few times my husband and son just looked over at me like I had lost my mind. Ha.

The characters in Fairy Godmothers, Inc draw you in because of their charm & witty since of humor and personalities. Rellie (can I say, brilliant nick name for Cinderella btw) is the opposite of what you've grown up picturing as poor, mistreated Cinderella. She's a total ditz. I loved that! She does have the wicked step family, but someone high up in command at Fairy Godmother's Inc has paid for a contract to have a Fairy Godmother set up Rellie with a Prince. Enter Rupert *giggle* - he's totally and completely the perfect match for Rellie. However, he goes MIA a few times (seems he needs to find "enlightenment" and learn how to understand big words *snort laugh*). He's a total momma's boy even though they all run and hide from their Queen. The King? Oh, he's hidden away somewhere trying to make use of the rooms his wifey never visits - he's crossing his fingers none of the staff tattle on where he's hiding.

Poor, poor Kate. Kate is the Fairy Godmother assigned to Rellie's contract. While sporting the Fairy Godmother "uniform" (see the cover image - PERFECT representation of Kate & her "uniform"), she has to try and match up Rellie & Rupert. What Kate isn't expecting: to fall for Jon (aka Prince Charming) while working this case.

Can I just say, my favorite character in the entire novel was Lawton. Anytime he entered a scene, I immediately perked up because he is entirely too entertaining for his own good. His witty personality made me adore his smart-mouth remarks & biting responses. I absolutely loved how he could command the entire scene, looking like a stiff character,  but then make you bust out laughing as soon as he throws out one of his retorts or comebacks. At first I was nervous about him - he was so severe that he seemed like a bad man in disguise, but then you come to learn that it's just the way he is.

I loved how Jennifer throws in bits of pieces of the typical fairy tale romance - a fancy ballgown here, a glass slipper there, a Fairy Godmother equipped with wings & a wand... It's such a great mix that equals such quirky fun! This was a novel that I couldn't wait to pick up every night when I got home just because the entertainment factor is so incredibly high!

I adored every single aspect of Fairy Godmothers, Inc. It was truly a fun, easy to read tale of a little mischief, a tad bit of sparkles & rabbit fur, a truckload of quirkiness, enough laugh out loud moments to keep you glued to the pages, a nail-biting shoe fitting complete with a little magic wand waving, and a little romantic swooning that was like the cherry on the top.


Overall rating: 5 Huge Stars
Cover: 5 stars! It's the perfect cover for this novel!
Characters: 5 stars!
Plot: 5 Stars
Climax: 5 Stars - talk about a shoe fitting to remember!
Ending: 5 Stars - I adored the ending & was sad to reach the last page of the novel

Giveaway!

Use the Rafflecopter below to enter for your chance to win a $25 Amazon Giftcard!!

The giveaway is live April 22nd to May 4th. Good luck everyone!!!

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Review: Call of the Vampire by Gayla Twist

Call of the Vampire

The Vanderlind Castle Series #1

by Gayla Twist

Published March 29, 2013

YA Paranormal Romance

*Ebook obtained directly from the author

in exchange for an honest review*

Synopsis via Goodreads:

Aurora Keys has dreamed of the Vanderlind Castle ever since she was a little girl. But the fiercely private Vanderlinds keep the massive structure strictly off limits to visitors. Until one night, the wealthy family throws a party —- not just a small soiree, but a huge black-tie affair. No one from the town of Tiburon, Ohio, is invited —- not even the mayor. But Aurora’s best friend, Blossom, has a foolproof plan for the two of them to sneak in.

At first, everything goes smoothly: the girls enter the castle undetected, and there is free champagne. But then the handsome Jessie Vanderlind sweeps Aurora into his arms, crushing her to his chest and whispering, “I knew you’d come back to me.”

Aurora understands it is a case of mistaken identity, but she feels connected to him somehow. And the boy is so beautiful, she believes she would be happy if he never let her go.

Once Jessie realizes he is mistaken, his smile quickly changes to a scowl. “You must leave,” he tells her in a low, urgent voice. “Immediately. Come! I’ll find a way to get you out.”

Unbeknownst to Aurora and Blossom, they have snuck into the home of one of the most prestigious vampire families in the world, and it is doubtful the two young women will ever be allowed to leave. Aurora’s resemblance to Jessie Vanderlind’s lost love just may be the only thing keeping them alive.

Grab Your Copy:

Connect With The Author:   Goodreads    Website    Twitter




My Review:

I'm a sucker (no pun intended) for a good vampire novel. I was excited to take on Call of the Vampire for review because the new vampire novels that are coming out are intriguing. There's always some new twist on the "vampire" itself it seems - Some good, some not so good... (Meyer = Sparkles). LoL In this novel, the vampires can fly/float/what would you call it since they don't have wings, Ha. The author also throws the twist in that vampirism can be a "family thing." I liked that twist - families refusing to give up their families members so after they have kids and enter their 20's, they're turned so they can live forever. That makes it interesting.

Call of the Vampire had me hooked by the mystery aspect alone - I adore old castles and mysteries that surround them. I adore the fact that the Vanderlind's had their castle taken apart stone by stone and moved to America. However, I was amazed that it was Ohio that was their destination. Of all the places? No offense to Ohio or anything, I've actually been through and it's a beautiful place - it just seems a little random right? - it's like placing your finger on a map and slamming your finger down on the first place you come to. Maybe it was chosen because it doesn't draw too much attention? Hmm things to think about right?

The characters are great in this novel. Each has their own very distinct personality. They're easy to keep straight & interesting enough that you want to follow each of them to see what they do next. However, they aren't over the top with their personalities. There's a good balance with the characters.

Aurora's character was easy to love and cheer for. I did have a few moments where I couldn't help but roll my eyes because she was being a little too childish (dancing with the tux), but overall, you could tell that she acted more mature as compared to others her age. She is very protective of those she loves and very responsible. You learn enough about Jessie to love him but not enough about him to stave off your curiosity and drive to know more. I feel like Aurora doesn't even really KNOW much about him. We get a feel for his background and what his life has been life, but you don't know much about who he is now. He's gentle, respectful, emotional, holds on to his humanity and compassion, and loved Aurora's Great Grandmother's Sister Colette to no end. You know his dad died a human, his mom's side is a little messed up, and his brother seems like a total douche. But still, I felt like I didn't KNOW him? I don't know if I'm making any sense at all... It's hard to put into words. That sounds like something negative, but really, it's not. It leaves a lot of room for book 2 to continue opening our eyes and hearts to who Jessie really is deep down.

Gayla puts a neat twist in the plot when it comes to Colette's death. Was it possible for Colette to be reincarnated as Aurora? How Aurora is able to dream about Colette if that's not the case... It's a big mystery that I hope ends up being explained in book 2.

I know that this is novel #1 for a series so there's a lot of questions left unanswered. I won't lie when I say that the ending did leave me a little empty inside. I wasn't happy about that part but, again, I know this is the start to a series so I'm holding out hope. I'm a sucker for a happy ending.

Overall, this was a really intriguing, mysterious, and thought provoking new vampire tale. I thoroughly enjoyed it and cannot wait to get my hands on book 2 later this year!



Overall Rating: 3.7
Cover: 5 Stars - beautiful cover!
Characters: 4.5 Stars
Plot: 4.5 Stars
Climax: 4 Stars
Ending: 3 Stars

DAC Review: The Collector (Dante Walker #1) by Victoria Scott

The Collector

Dante Walker #1

by Victoria Scott

YA Paranormal Romance

Published March 25, 2013

 

*Ebook Obtained via NetGalley in

exchange for an honest review*

Synopsis via Goodreads:

Dante Walker is flippin’ awesome, and he knows it. His good looks, killer charm, and stellar confidence has made him one of Hell’s best — a soul collector. His job is simple, weed through humanity and label those round rears with a big red good or bad stamp. Old Saint Nick gets the good guys, and he gets the fun ones. Bag-and-tag.

Sealing souls is nothing personal. Dante’s an equal opportunity collector and doesn’t want it any other way. But he’ll have to adjust, because Boss Man has given him a new assignment: Collect Charlie Cooper’s soul within 10 days.

Dante doesn’t know why Boss Man wants Charlie, nor does he care. This assignment means only one thing to him, and that’s a permanent ticket out of Hell. But after Dante meets the quirky, Nerd Alert chick he’s come to collect—he realizes this assignment will test his abilities as a collector, and uncover emotions long ago buried.

Grab Your Copy:

(Go Ahead & Pre-Order Bk 2 from Amazon while you're at it) ^_^

 

Barnes & Noble

 

About the Author:

Victoria Scott is a teen fiction writer represented by Sara Crowe. She's the author of THE COLLECTOR trilogy (Entangled Teen) and the FIRE & FLOOD series (Scholastic). Victoria lives in Dallas with her husband and hearts cotton candy something fierce.


Connect with Victoria: 
 Goodreads    Website    Twitter    Facebook



My Review:

Oh my my my... Dante Walker is such an ass - he's conceited, totally full of himself, thinks he is above everyone else, shallow as hell, and totally a prick.... You totally hate him because he's such a bad guy.

However, you can't help but fall totally, madly in love with him - he's hot, dresses amazing, is full of confidence, has a conscience that he tries to hide, suffered from a horrible accident that took his life, misses his family, and has always done what he had to in order to look out for himself and survive the wrath of his Boss Man...

Dante is given the task of bringing the Boss Man Charlie's soul. He thinks that it'll be easy-peasy but he doesn't like the fact that he knows the name of his next target - it makes it too personal. Little does Dante know - this will be the hardest task of his entire afterlife profession.

I loved this novel. At first, it took a bit of reaching to grasp the concept of the whole marking the soul thing... Once you get it, you totally get it though.

Ug, I totally wanted to smack Dante when he kept talking about how ugly Charlie was. I was totally pissed at him. Seriously - dude was totally shallow. But then he starts to change... his conscience starts showing and he starts to feel guilty for his actions. He starts to see the bigger picture and decides, for once, he has to look out for more people than just himself. I wanted to hug him, and cry, and hug him again and again - you know, post smacking him upside his head. LoL

I really enjoyed this novel - great YA Debut. I read it in 2 days because I couldn't put it down. I loved the twists and adored all of the characters.

Great paranormal read and I cannot wait to get the second book in my hands!!!

Overall Rating: 4.5 Stars
Cover Rating: 5 Stars
Characters: 5 Stars
Plot: 4 Stars
Climax: 4.5 Stars
Ending: 4.5 Stars

Review: Dare You To (Pushing the Limits #2) by Katie McGarry

Dare You To

Pushing the Limits #2

by Katie McGarry

YA Contemporary Romance

Expected Publication: May 28, 2013 by Harlequin Teen

 

*ARC Copy Obtained Via NetGalley in

Exchange for an Honest Review*

Synopsis via Goodreads:

Ryan lowers his lips to my ear. "Dance with me, Beth."

"No." I whisper the reply. I hate him and I hate myself for wanting him to touch me again....

"I dare you..."

If anyone knew the truth about Beth Risk's home life, they'd send her mother to jail and seventeen-year-old Beth who knows where. So she protects her mom at all costs. Until the day her uncle swoops in and forces Beth to choose between her mom's freedom and her own happiness. That's how Beth finds herself living with an aunt who doesn't want her and going to a school that doesn't understand her. At all. Except for the one guy who shouldn't get her, but does....

Ryan Stone is the town golden boy, a popular baseball star jock-with secrets he can't tell anyone. Not even the friends he shares everything with, including the constant dares to do crazy things. The craziest? Asking out the Skater girl who couldn't be less interested in him.

But what begins as a dare becomes an intense attraction neither Ryan nor Beth expected. Suddenly, the boy with the flawless image risks his dreams-and his life-for the girl he loves, and the girl who won't let anyone get too close is daring herself to want it all....

Grab Your Copy:

 

Barnes & Noble

About the Author:

KATIE MCGARRY was a teenager during the age of grunge and boy bands and remembers those years as the best and worst of her life. She is a lover of music, happy endings, and reality television, and is a secret University of Kentucky basketball fan.

Connect With Katie:   Goodreads    Website    Twitter    Facebook

My Review:

This was an emotional, heart pounding thrill ride where I felt like I crashed and was brought back again.

I totally loved Pushing The Limits - but this novel exceeded everything I assumed might happen.

Knowing that this novel was about Beth made me excited from the start. I wanted to see her back story & where her life was going to go. She was a character in book 1 that I felt bad for... she was stuck living in the basement with the guys at her Aunt's house because her mom is a total douche. Learning more about her actual situation with her mother made my heart ache. The event that pushes Beth into taking the fall for her mother was it for me. I just wanted to jump through the book, smack Beth upside the head for caring about her mother's well-being and then hug her because she, well, loved her mom too much when all her mom cared about was her POS boyfriend. Beth was stuck being the parent when her actual mom was too wasted to take care of her. She ends up going to live with Scott - her uncle who she feels deserted her years ago instead of coming back for her like he said he would. She has a tough time trusting him at all since, in her mind, he could've come back for her sooner. He can obviously provide a life for her that she never would have the opportunity for otherwise. Scott, being a professional baseball player, has a nice house, a fancy wife (who definitely doesn't get along with Beth all too well), and has high expectations for Beth to turn around her life. He sets rules for her to follow and tries to encourage her to change her life for the better. Of course, he has to hold the outcome of her mother over her head to get her to comply. She does so, not really willingly, but plots to run away and save her mom the first chance she gets.

Ryan, oh sweet Ryan. I adored him. He isn't your typical male lead character. Yes, he appears to have the perfect life - baseball star, model parents, great house, great friends, great future ahead of him.... but then when you really get the chance to see what's hidden behind the facade, you learn there's so much more. Ryan deals with his own home-life problems. His dad is a total ass-hat - trying to deviate Ryan's life with his "baseball or boot" attitude. His brother has been kicked out of the house because he came out and told his parents that he's gay. Ryan is torn between his love for his brother and following his father's commands.

The first meeting between Ryan and Beth had me cracking up. She was such a hard-ass and he was just trying to win a bet by getting her number. Totally cracked me up. In order to help out his idol, Scott, Ryan agrees to help out Scott's niece by showing her around, helping her get used to the school & town, and introducing her to friends. Boy was Ryan in for a surprise when he comes to learn that the "niece" was the one and only Beth. Ha. Loved it.

Last, but not least, I have to touch on Isaiah. He's in the picture but I can't say more because I don't want to mark this as having spoilers. ^_^ You know you love me for that. For those wondering, he's in the book... a lot. You know he loves Beth but does she love him too? He's her best friend. He's the one person that she's ALWAYS been able to count on to help her. He ends up saving her butt a few times in this novel. I love Isaiah and can't wait to see what's next from Katie!

Honestly, I could go on and on about this novel.

 I adored the characters, the drama, the struggle of opening up and leaning how to trust and let your guard down.

Great novel! Can't wait to read Isaiah's story!


Overall Rating: 4.5 Stars
Cover Rating: 4 Stars
Characters: 5 Stars
Plot: 4.5 Stars
Climax: 5 Stars
Ending: 5 Stars

Giveaway Hop: Showers of Books - Unmaking Hunter Kennedy by Anne Eliot

So for this giveaway, I'm going to be giving away one of my favorite books 

by one of my favorite people!! 

Use the Rafflecopter below to enter to win a Kindle copy of:

Synopsis via Goodreads:

After a car accident--an event he considers a prank gone bad--pop star, Hunter Kennedy is forced to hide out with his aunt in small-town Colorado. He’s supposed to rest, heal his scars and attend high school in disguise until the press dies down. But he only wants to get back to work.

Worse, the girl who’s been assigned to make him over into a geek is a major geek herself. Vere Roth is a chattering pixie, a blushing tornado and a complete social disaster. He’s never met a girl who’s never-been-kissed, believes in romance and thinks Hunter’s a 'nice' guy.

Funny thing is...Hunter is nice around Vere because she’s his first real friend. He also can’t seem to stop sharing his secrets or keep her out of his heart. Knowing he’d never deserve a girl as sweet as Vere, he resigns himself to the friend zone, and helps his new bestie with her own makeover.

She tortures him daily for ridiculous guy advice on how to snag her life-long crush. A guy Hunter thinks is totally wrong for Vere, and sadly, one who has taken note of Vere’s transformation.

When Vere asks her best friend for some kissing advice, Hunter can’t resist...

And that’s when things get out of control...

High School Romance, first love, sweet romance...

 

I absolutely adored this novel! If you missed my review, you can go and check it out HERE.

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ARC Review: Claim Me (Stark Trilogy #2) by J. Kenner

Claim Me

Stark Trilogy #2

by J. Kenner

Erotic Romance / Light BDSM

Expected Publication: April 23, 2013 by Batam

*ARC Ebook obtained via NetGalley in 

exchange for an honest review*

Synopsis via Goodreads:

For Damien, our obsession is a game. For me, it is fiercely, blindingly, real.

Damien Stark’s need is palpable—his need for pleasure, his need for control, his need for me. Beautiful and brilliant yet tortured at his core, he is in every way my match.

I have agreed to be his alone, and now I want him to be fully mine. I want us to possess each other beyond the sweetest edge of our ecstasy, into the deepest desires of our souls. To let the fire that burns between us consume us both.

But there are dark places within Damien that not even our wildest passion can touch. I yearn to know his secrets, yearn for him to surrender to me as I have surrendered to him. But our troubled pasts will either bind us close . . . or shatter us completely.

Release Me is an erotic romance intended for mature audiences.

  

Pre-Order Your Copy:

Barnes & Noble

About the Author:

J. Kenner spent more than ten years as a litigator in Southern California and Central Texas, using her rare free time to indulge her passion for writing. California born, she now lives—and writes—in Texas, with her husband and daughters.


Connect with the Author: Goodreads   Twitter    Facebook   Website







My Review:

Oh my, my, my.... I just can't get enough of Damien Stark.

Let me start out by saying that for most readers, you either like this type of novel (erotica with BDSM) or you don't. I like them... a lot.

With that being said, I won't go into detail about the actual erotic fun in this novel but I will say that Kenner didn't disappoint. Great scenes and high emotion throughout them.

Now, the rest of the deets...

I adore the characters in this novel. They seem to me to have more depth than other popular erotica novel characters do. If you read book 1, Release Me, and you enjoyed it, this novel doesn't disappoint. I will say that the first nearly half of the novel is a tad slow... great scenes, but as far as the plot unfolding, it's a tad slow. Now, I'm not saying I didn't enjoy the first half... but compared to the rest of the novel, it wasn't nearly as eventful.

All of a sudden, the novel seems to take off - it's one thing after another. You learn more about Damien's past, which breaks your heart even more for this man, and you also continue to see Nikki struggle with trying to keep herself from turning to cutting to ground her. Slowly, Damien begins to open up little by little but there's still so many mysteries yet to be unveiled. It leaves the reader on their toes waiting for "what's next?!"

The drama constantly had me biting my nails and wanting to jump through the novel. Nikki's mom - UG! - that woman makes me want to hurl... better yet, I want to punch her in her face! >_<

Now.... the ending.... jeewiz... I can't believe that Julie left us hanging where she does! Now don't get me wrong, the ending is perfect... but the events that are beginning to unfold! I wanted to scream at the book when I reached the last page! LoL I can't wait to see how this trilogy ends - I'm crossing my fingers that things work out the way I want them too ^_^


Overall Rating: 4 Stars
Cover Rating: 4 Stars --> ahh that scarf! Love that they used this as the cover image.
Characters: 4.5 Stars
Plot: 4 Stars
Climax: 4.5 Stars
Ending: 5 Stars

IMM #28 / STS #22

IMM Info @ The Story Siren

STS Info @ Tynga's Reviews

 

 

Well... 3 more weeks worth together... I think this will end up being my new trend. LOL

Not intentionally... just the way it's working lately >_<

Anywho! On to the books & fun stuff!!

 

Don't forget to check out the AWESOME giveaways going on!!! Click the tab up top to access the list of open giveaways going on! Lots of great ebook & signed swag up for grabs! ^_^

 

 

 

My haul for the last three weeks:

 

Purchased:

 

Dying to Forget on Amazon for $3.99

 

 

Real on Amazon for $3.99

 

 

 So, of course, I've watched this movie. I enjoyed it. BUT the books are always better. I can't wait to dig into this novel. ^_^

Beastly on Amazon for $7.69

 

 

 

 

 

 

Received for review directly from the author or publisher:

 I'm truly honored to receive copies for review from authors. I adore working with you and love being able to read/review your work. Thank you for trusting me with your novels & trusting me to give an honest review.

 

 

Thank You Debbie for allowing me to read/review an ARC Copy!!!! *Happy Dance*

I've been waiting patiently for this one - If you haven't read book 1, go get it!!

You won't be sorry! It's spectacular!

 

 

 

I love the artwork on this cover!

 

 

Received for review as part of a tour:

 Sooo many great tours going on! I'm so excited to be a part of them!

 

Friends & Lovers Series by Bethany Lopez

 

 

 

ARC

 

 

 

 

Received for review via NetGalley:

 I'm want to take a minute and say that I'm very grateful for the opportunity to read and review all of the novels I receive through NetGalley via Publishers, Publicists, or Indie Authors. It's an honor and a privilege. So Thank You!

 

  

 

 

 

I cannot wait to get my review posted for books 1-3 of this series! I'm so thankful to have been given the chance to read an Advanced copy of book 3!

 

 

 

 

 

Ooh Dante - I've been hearing so much about this bad boy.. *Swoon*

 

 

 

Literally In My Mailbox:

*Happy Dance*

The only thing that can compare to getting new books is getting new items related to the great books you read! LoL I love checking my mailbox each day - it's an addiction haha

 

 

Sqqeee! I'm pretty sure my neighbors probably got a great laugh whenever they saw me walking back from the mailbox when I received these beautiful from Jennifer Armentrout! I was so excited that I was practically dancing back up to our house haha ^_^

 

Oooh I also got this super special, super secret, spectacular surprise gift from Anne Eliot! I promised I wouldn't out her because a few others will be getting a similar gift so I don't want to ruin their surprise! I totally, absolutely, adore that woman! She's precious & I'm so thankful to be able to say that she's a friend! <3

 

 

 

 

Last but not least, I have to tell you guys about this awesome event coming soon!

Kathy Petrakis, author of this super fabulous series, Dancers & Divas, is about to be releasing book 2 in the series! Squeee! I can't wait! I really enjoyed book 1.

 

If you haven't checked it out, do it!!

If you like Step Up, Glee, Gossip Girl... things like that... you'll LOVE this novel. I reviewed it several months back - You can check out my review HERE.

 

 

 

Kathy is working on organizing blog tour to help spread the word about the series. I'll be taking part. I'd LOVE it if you guys would consider doing so. If you want some more information, let me know! Leave a comment & I'll email Kathy your contact info. :) Let's just say, you don't want to miss out. 

A Prize for FANS can reach up to $1,000!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Review: Eternal (Sons of Heaven) by Virginia Hust

Eternal

Sons of Heaven #1

by Virginia Hust

Edited by Sarah Maddox

YA Urban Fantasy / Paranormal / Fiction

Published Jan 7, 2013

*Ebook obtained directly from the author in exchange for an honest review*

Synopsis via Goodreads:

Three hundred years of penance, of suffering through an immortal life has left Maura praying for salvation. She joins a group bent on gaining back their souls by awakening The One and after a rather bleak few years in Cairo she thinks they’ve found him. But after a meeting with her sire goes terribly wrong she is trapped in the enemy camp. How far will she go to survive? Gabriel is a normal, if rather jaded private detective living in Seattle Washington, until a beautiful woman shows up at his practice, claiming to be a vampire and asking for his help. Suddenly his life is turned on its head as he is introduced to the underground society of Fallen Angels bent on finding their savior.

Grab Your Copy:

About the Authors:

Virginia Gamsky Hust lives in sunny Florida with her new Husband William Hust and their miniature poodle Apollo. She is pursuing a degree in English Lit and works as a wedding planner in her spare time.

Connect With Virginia on Twitter

Sarah Maddox lives on the white sandy beaches of West Florida. She and Virginia have been friends since freshman year of college and she is the voice of reason in their little group. She is currently working towards her degree in Computer Science while juggling a part time job in a tourist town.

Stop by the official Eternal Website

My Review:

I'm a lover of all things vampire... usually. Now, starting this review with this tone sounds like I'm pacing myself for a rough review. Honestly, it's not that bad but I wasn't completely loving it either.

This novel starts off with a bang - The action starting off immediately. Capturing, torture, running, traveling...I enjoyed the multitude of characters in this novel but I have to be honest and say that I was totally confused by those who had multiple names. I understood that they had a modern name for this day and age plus the name they used years ago... I understood that just fine - it was the use of the names being swapped back and forth, around and around. I had to mentally try and keep up with which character I was reading about. I became exhausted in the beginning trying to keep them straight. 

I enjoyed that this novel was following two separate events at the same time: You have Maura & you have Gabriel. I enjoyed both of their characters. Sometimes I had a little trouble mentally jumping back and forth between the two scenes & settings though because they bounced back and forth often. I had a good feel for some characters and no feel at all for others. You really don't know much about anyone to start with... little bits and pieces of each character are revealed slowly over the course of the entire novel. The novel is told in third person so I wasn't completely engrossed in the characters as I might have been otherwise. 

Oooh the traveling - I really enjoyed the fact that the characters traveled from place to place. I thought that was intriguing. I've never been off the North America continent, so learning more about the places they stopped at could've been fun.

As I neared the 3/4 way through the novel, I was captured in what was happening to the characters. I loved the twists & excitement. I have to admit that the second half of the novel held my attention more than the first half. 

I felt like the novel could've used another run through by the editor because there were a handful of areas that made me want to take out a red pen but it wasn't a deal breaker. I loved the way this novel concluded and look forward to seeing what Virginia Hust does next.

Overall Rating: 3 Stars

Cover Rating: 1 Star

Characters: 3.5 Stars

Plot: 3.5 Stars

Climax: 3.5 Stars

Ending: 4 Stars

Review: Bonds of Need (Wicked Play #2) by Lynda Aicher

Bonds of Needs

Wicked Play #2

by Lynda Aicher

Erotica/Romance/BDSM

Published March 4, 2013

by Carina Press

*Ebook obtained via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review*

Synopsis via Goodreads:

When Kendra Morgan attends a party at an exclusive sex club, she's not driven by mere curiosity. Hoping to prove she's put the past behind her, Kendra must instead face up to needs she's denied for too long. Despite her lingering fears, she can't resist the temptation to play…

Deklan Winters has had his eye on his attractive neighbor for months, but only senses Kendra is no stranger to the BDSM scene when she walks into his club. And he can tell that's not her only secret. What surprises him is his own overwhelming desire to give her what she craves—and to show her a side to the Dom/sub relationship she's never known.

With Deklan's guidance, Kendra begins to accept her forbidden needs and to recognize the fine line between pleasure and pain. But when her former Master returns to reclaim her, it will take all her courage—and all of Deklan's love—to defy her past.

For more tales from The Den check out Bonds of Trust.

Grab Your Copy:

Barnes & Noble

About the Author Per Her Goodreads Profile:

I love to read. It's a simple fact that has been true since I discovered the worlds of Judy Blume at the age of ten. After years of weekly travel as a consultant implementing computer software into global companies, I ended my nomadic lifestyle to raise my two children. Now, my imagination is my only limitation on where I can go and my writing lets me escape from the daily duties of being a mom, wife, chauffer, scheduler, cook, teacher, cleaner, and mediator.

If writing wasn't a priority, it would never get done.

Connect with Lynda:  Goodreads   Website    Twitter

My Review:

After reading & loving Bonds of Trust, book 1 in this series, I knew I had to read this second novel. I was so excited when I read the synopsis and realized that this novel would be Kendra & Deklan's story. Each of the characters, for the most part, were in book #1. I loved the strength and power that Deklan showed in book 1 so I couldn't wait to read more about him. Kendra - she was a mysterious character in book 1. You didn't know much about her except that she was obviously hiding a few secrets of her own... 

Bonds of Need definitely didn't disappoint! I loved the connection between Deklan & Kendra. They had a chemistry to die for! 

Kendra, oh god, poor thing. She was stuck in a horrible relationship and he took advantage of her submissive nature and need for pain. He took the role of a Dom and completely warped it into abuse. There was nothing caring or controlled in the way that he treated Kendra. I felt horrible that she went through such an event but I felt even worse because she couldn't seem to get away from it. 

Deklan takes such amazing care of Kendra. He wants to help her understand that her needs, although not common, are nothing to be ashamed of. However, he knows that there is a right way and a wrong way of meeting the needs that Kendra has. Their time together, although beginning as part of a contract and only a contract, built Kendra's acceptance of her needs up to where she knew that she was mistreated... she was able to understand the difference between her previous submissive relationship and what Deklan brought into her life. 

I absolutely melted when Deklan waited outside of Kendra's parent's house - just so she could see that he was there to support her when she was ready. LOVE Him! 

I could honestly keep talking... but I don't want to spoil all of the fun. 

Note that this is a BDSM novel... they are in a BDSM Club through a lot of the novel. If that isn't the type of novel you're interested in, then this won't be for you. However, it's an amazing novel for those that do. 

I can't wait to read Wicked Play #3! I know that it'll be just as great as 1 & 2 have been! 


Overall Rating: 4.5 Stars
Cover Rating: 4 Stars
Character Rating: 5 Stars
Plot: 5 Stars
Climax: 5 Stars
Ending: 4.5 Stars

Giveaway & Excerpt: Soother (Brennan Coven Trilogy bk 2) by Elle J. Rossi

The Soother

The Brennan Coven Trilogy Book 1

by Elle J. Rossi

Paranormal

Expected Publication - March 13, 2013

Synopsis via Goodreads:

A WITCH WITH THE GIFT OF LIGHT

Calliope the Soother is a witch devoting her life to easing the pain and misery of others, drawing out the darkness and replacing it with light.

A HALF-BREED WITH THE CURSE OF DARKNESS

A powerful wizard by birthright, Krystoff Dubhar’s tainted blood carries shadows destined to possess his mind and soul. Only with outlawed, dangerous blood magick can he hold the shadows at bay.

HIS SHADOWS WEAKEN HER

In the shadowed realm of Mistropa, Krystoff falls to overwhelming odds. Just as the Queen of Shadows is about to claim his power—and his life, Calliope hears the foreboding cry of the banshee, and the Soother becomes the wizard’s savior. As Calliope heals her mysterious fanged enemy, her heart is sent into overdrive. Is her accelerated pulse prompted by fear or desire? Either way, Krystoff's shadowed presence proves dangerous. His sensual words ignite a fire long held dormant. His kiss reveals a forbidden passion.

HIS HUNGER MAY VERY WELL KILL HER

Seeking vengeance, the Queen’s dark army turns the Soother’s village into a battleground rife with death and destruction. Calliope fights to save her coven. Krystoff fights to save the Soother who has captured his heart. One bite changes everything. Can love survive the never-ending battle between light and dark?

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About the Author:

Elle J Rossi grew up in rural Indiana surrounded by great people, a huge family and more animals than she could count. But the sites and sounds of the world beckoned, so she left her small town to escape into a creative world full of music. As a full time singer she was able to lose herself in a thousand different songs in a hundred different places. After meeting the love of her life and settling down, she yearned to find a new and fulfilling creative outlet. Overly fond of the happily ever after, she wondered what it would be like to have her own characters lead her down dark and twisted paths. The very first word on the very first page sealed her fate. She’d found a new love. She’d found her escape. Now along with weaving haunting tales about the journey to love, she’s creating cover art for authors around the world and loving every second of it. For fun, she cranks country music to take her back to her roots, and sings karaoke anytime she gets a chance. Her husband, two children, and a cat that rules the roost keep her company along the way and guarantee she doesn’t get lost in the enchanted forest. She wouldn’t have it any other way.

Website – Blog – Twitter – Facebook

Excerpt of The Soother:

Her pounding pulse heated Krystoff’s blood and had saliva pooling in his mouth. He swallowed but it wasn’t nearly enough to quench his thirst. Standing behind her, he quickly conjured a pair of jeans and slid them on, then backed away from the inviting skin just below her right ear. This witch’s intense scrutinizing had been quite the test in self-control. One more minute and he would have pinned her against the door and traced his tongue over each and every tattoo decorating her skin.

Krystoff walked around the table and pulled out another chair, flipped it around and sat astride. “Charmer, huh?” He liked the nickname, even though it didn’t suit him. Nothing about his life had been charmed. Blaming Riona would have been easy, but he’d made his own share of mistakes over the years. Something about this witch had him regretting quite a few of those blunders. Perhaps her magick had him ensnared in a spell of remorse.

Her hands found their way to her lap and she sighed. “My sister named you that.”

Red marks in the shape of her fingers marred her pale neck. They would fade, but he didn’t like seeing them at all. He should be the only one marking her neck. What was he thinking? This witch wasn’t his. Nor did he have time for a romp between the sheets— not even a short one. His mother—correction—Riona would be looking for him. It would be wise if he sought her out first. Maybe he’d get lucky and find Riona and Scout in the same place.

His blue-eyed angel stared at him, and he realized she’d been waiting for him to speak. “Sister? Ah, the fire witch.” The witch with red hair had incredible aim. She’d fried many Mistropans with one fireball. How many had she taken out after he’d passed out?

Calliope smiled. “Just one of her many talents. Bevva’s a caster.” The smile vanished.

He watched as she pinched her lips shut and shook her head. “It’s okay. Her secret is safe with me.”

“I doubt it.”

“Don’t.”

She jerked in her seat as if he’d slapped her. He’d never met such a complex being. One moment she looked ready to throttle him, a second later he thought she’d bolt, and yet another blink and the witch appeared ready to join him for a little skin-on-skin action.

Krystoff cleared his throat and attempted to soften his tone. “It’s the least I can do.

The two of you saved my life. I owe you at least that.” He stuck out his hand. “Name’s Krystoff.” 

Wariness danced in her eyes before she sighed again and accepted his hand.

“Calliope.”

Lovely. “Suits you.” He skimmed his thumb over her knuckle. 

She blinked and pulled away, her movements sluggish. “Does it? I never thought so.”

“You’re made to make music and dance under the stars.”

A blush crept across her cheeks. “If only Bevva could hear you now. She’d laugh her way to the moon.” Calliope picked at the chipped black polish on her thumb. “Charmer, indeed. You use those lines on all women, or just the ones who save you from taking a stroll with the banshee?”

Shoving out of her chair, she stomped to the stove and restocked her cabinets with precision. Each methodical movement captivated Krystoff. She waved a glass bottle in front of her face, then placed it on the exact shelf he’d taken it from. He admired her organizational skills.

Krystoff scooted his chair closer. Her pace slowed and a bottle of dill fell from her shaking hands, spilling onto the floor. “Do I make you nervous?”

Her lashes fluttered open. With a deep breath, she turned and leaned against the counter. “No. You make me tired.”

"I can see that.” Dark circles had formed crescents under her eyes and her shoulders sagged beneath her black T-shirt. “Why?” He’d expect her to be tired if he’d gotten his wish and had some fun in that bed of hers. They’d only had a simple and brief conversation. What could possibly be tiring about that?

Calliope shoved her hair out of her face, exposing the stars around her eye. “It really doesn’t concern you.”  

Krystoff rose and flashed across the small room. The kitchen blurred beyond recognition, but it mattered not. He knew exactly where he was going. In less than a second, he stood directly in front of her, then tilted her chin up with a gentle touch of one finger. “Are you sure about that?”

More blinking, followed by, “You need to go.”

He smiled, dipped closer. She smelled of powder and lilacs, sunshine and wildflower meadows. A more alluring combination could not possibly exist. “I’m not ready to go.” 

Calliope gripped his shoulders and pushed. Krystoff didn’t budge. He held her in place with his body. When she punched him, he laughed. This witch was feisty. If only he had more time.

“What are you?” she asked with one more futile shove.

He considered lying, and then shrugged. “I’m just a soulless half-breed wizard, but I do believe you’re the one who’s cast a spell.” He couldn’t resist. Krystoff dipped his head one more time, touched his lips to hers and became even more enchanted.

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Review & Giveaway: My Everything (Beaumont Series) by Heidi McLaughlin

My Everything

Beaumont Series #1.5

by Heidi McLaughlin

Contemporary Romance

Published March 18, 2013 by Mad Bear Publishing

*Ebook obtained directly from the author in exchange for an honest review*

Synopsis via Goodreads:

When Nick Ashford lost his friend, Mason, he didn’t realize he was going to lose his family as well, but that’s exactly what happened. Alone and in a foreign country, Nick is working on rebuilding his life one patient at a time, that is, until a striking volunteer makes her presence known.

Can Nick finish his year in Africa without risking his heart being broken again, or is he willing to start a new chapter in his life before his return to Beaumont?

Grab Your Copy:
 

Barnes & Noble
 

About the Author:

Heidi is the author of USA Today, Digital Book World, Amazon and Barnes & Noble Bestselling novel, Forever My Girl

Originally from the Pacific Northwest, she now lives in picturesque Vermont, with her husband and two daughters. Also renting space in their home is an over-hyper Beagle/Jack Russell and two Parakeets.

During the day Heidi is behind a desk talking about Land Use. At night, she's writing one of the many stories planned for release or sitting court-side during either daughter's basketball games.

Connect with the author:   Goodreads   Website   Twitter   Facebook

My Review:

Heidi managed to make me like a character that I really disliked originally.... My Everything was definitely a surprise for me! Nick, Josie's ex fiance, runs off to Africa at the end of My Forever Girl. I honestly said to myself "good riddance" when that happened. Though, when I started reading My Everything, I was surprised to learn that he did it as a last ditch effort to keep his family. Deep down, he knew he'd lost Josie to Liam, but accepting it was hard.

My Everything is a quick read that helps you understand why Nick did what he did, how he really feels, that he really wasn't that bad of a guy, and then what happens when he comes back home to Beaumont. I have to be honest and say that I was a little floored by the insta-love between Nick & Aubrey. Maybe it wasn't really insta-love after all... they were there a year LoL I guess it just seemed like insta-love because it's such a quick read.

I'm glad that Heidi took on this novella so we understood more about Nick and what made him tick. (I just rhymed there, LoL - totally unintentional ). I loved the insight into this character that I previously wanted to swat away out of book 1. It was a really pleasant short read that opened my eyes to the other side of the story.

Overall, definitely 4 stars for this novella because of the insight that it brought for me!
Cover Rating: 3 Stars
Characters: 4 Stars
Plot: 4 Stars
Climax: 5 Stars
Ending: 5 Stars




Giveaway!!!!!

Heidi is giving away a $25 Giftcard (winner's choice)! Open Internationally! Use the rafflecopter below to enter for your chance to win! Good luck everyone!




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