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**You can see this full review and more at Book Briefs: http://bookbriefs.net**
All the Right Places is the first book in a new contemporary romance series, called Riley O'Brien & Co. I loved this book. I don't want to call it a book slump, but I have been reading a lot of 3 star books lately. Books that are fine and good reads and all that, but I just didn't love them. All the Right Places was the first book that I have read in a week or two that made me feel the tingles of excitement while reading. And not just because the romance was great- which it was!, but because the overall story was great. The Riley O'Brien & Co. series is one that I will definitely be continuing!
The romance between Amelia and Quinn is so rockin'. It is one of instant attraction and lots of slow and torturous unresolved sexual tension. It was just so much fun watching Jenna Sutton draw out the URST scenes between these two. And the story is told in their alternating points of view, sometimes switching back and forth within the same chapter. I thought that added to the tension between them. Amelia is an up and coming designer and so far she has focused on accessories. She is just what the iconic jeans brands needs. I loved her secret plan with Quinn's sister initially to modernize and revamp the women's jeans. I thought this was such a relate bale problem for the company to have too. I feel like it is so much easier to get great fitting guys clothes than it is women's jeans.
This is going to be a great contemporary romance series. You can just tell. The characters are all so developed and realistic, and the romantic pairings have you dying to read more about them. I love Quinn and Amelia. Each of them was holding back from the other for their own reasons, but you could just tell that they wouldn't be able to resist for long. It made reading All the Right Places so much fun. Every time I turned the page, I kept thinking "are they going to get together now?" "or now?" If you like tension filled and chemistry charged romance, this is the series for you. I want more of Riley O'Brien & Co. right now!
This review was originally posted on Book Briefs
All the Right Places is the first book in a new contemporary romance series, called Riley O'Brien & Co. I loved this book. I don't want to call it a book slump, but I have been reading a lot of 3 star books lately. Books that are fine and good reads and all that, but I just didn't love them. All the Right Places was the first book that I have read in a week or two that made me feel the tingles of excitement while reading. And not just because the romance was great- which it was!, but because the overall story was great. The Riley O'Brien & Co. series is one that I will definitely be continuing!
The romance between Amelia and Quinn is so rockin'. It is one of instant attraction and lots of slow and torturous unresolved sexual tension. It was just so much fun watching Jenna Sutton draw out the URST scenes between these two. And the story is told in their alternating points of view, sometimes switching back and forth within the same chapter. I thought that added to the tension between them. Amelia is an up and coming designer and so far she has focused on accessories. She is just what the iconic jeans brands needs. I loved her secret plan with Quinn's sister initially to modernize and revamp the women's jeans. I thought this was such a relate bale problem for the company to have too. I feel like it is so much easier to get great fitting guys clothes than it is women's jeans.
This is going to be a great contemporary romance series. You can just tell. The characters are all so developed and realistic, and the romantic pairings have you dying to read more about them. I love Quinn and Amelia. Each of them was holding back from the other for their own reasons, but you could just tell that they wouldn't be able to resist for long. It made reading All the Right Places so much fun. Every time I turned the page, I kept thinking "are they going to get together now?" "or now?" If you like tension filled and chemistry charged romance, this is the series for you. I want more of Riley O'Brien & Co. right now!
This review was originally posted on Book Briefs
**You can see this full review and more at Book Briefs: http://bookbriefs.net**
4.5/5
Downcast is the first book in the young adult mythology series called Olympus Falling. You all know how much I love young adult and new adult mythology, so I was super excited for Downcast. And further, it is about one of my very favorite stories- Persephone and Hades. I loved this reimagining of the story of Persephone. I thought it was well done and a great read.
Downcast features something for everyone; romance, mythology, action and adventure. I thought some of the gods were portrayed in what I like to refer to as friendly god syndrome. Zeus and Hades for example got along great in this story, and honestly, I loved that author Cait Reynolds wrote it like that. I thought it was fun to see them on the same team, and it was nice to not have either one of them be the “villain” god in the story. I do wish we got a little more information on this deal the gods made. It was only mentioned in one or two scenes and I wanted a bigger explanation, but that might still be to come.
I absolutely loved Haley. He was so cute in his persistence of Stephanie. And I can’t wait to see what is in store for them next in installment. Downcast left off alluding to a something brewing in the near future. This is going to be one of my favorite YA mythology series. It is heavy on the romance and heavy on the myth, and that is a winning combination in my book. Fans of the Abandon trilogy by Meg Cabot and the Daughters of Zeus series by Kaitlin Bevis have another great series to add to their TBR piles. The Olympus Falling series is going to be one to watch out for. I loved it and am anxiously awaiting the next book.
This review was originally posted on Book Briefs
4.5/5
Downcast is the first book in the young adult mythology series called Olympus Falling. You all know how much I love young adult and new adult mythology, so I was super excited for Downcast. And further, it is about one of my very favorite stories- Persephone and Hades. I loved this reimagining of the story of Persephone. I thought it was well done and a great read.
Downcast features something for everyone; romance, mythology, action and adventure. I thought some of the gods were portrayed in what I like to refer to as friendly god syndrome. Zeus and Hades for example got along great in this story, and honestly, I loved that author Cait Reynolds wrote it like that. I thought it was fun to see them on the same team, and it was nice to not have either one of them be the “villain” god in the story. I do wish we got a little more information on this deal the gods made. It was only mentioned in one or two scenes and I wanted a bigger explanation, but that might still be to come.
I absolutely loved Haley. He was so cute in his persistence of Stephanie. And I can’t wait to see what is in store for them next in installment. Downcast left off alluding to a something brewing in the near future. This is going to be one of my favorite YA mythology series. It is heavy on the romance and heavy on the myth, and that is a winning combination in my book. Fans of the Abandon trilogy by Meg Cabot and the Daughters of Zeus series by Kaitlin Bevis have another great series to add to their TBR piles. The Olympus Falling series is going to be one to watch out for. I loved it and am anxiously awaiting the next book.
This review was originally posted on Book Briefs
**You can see this full review and more at Book Briefs: http://bookbriefs.net**
Amber Smoke is the first solo book by House of Night author, Kristin Cast. It is the start of a new young adult fantasy/mythology series, called the Escaped. I didn't initially realize that this had to do with mythology when I read the description. It talked about souls escaping from their cages, but those cages are their prison in Tartarus. Once I started reading and realized this, I was super excited. Amber Smoke is a very fast paced and quick read. It set up the series pretty well, but not a whole ton actually happened in this book. And more questions were posed than answered. Still, I am more than intrigued enough to want to know what is going to happen next.
Amber Smoke is told for multiple perspectives because the two main characters start out in different realms and don't know each other. The furies had a son, Alek, that was to be the warrior of the underworld. To break a curse, he has to go above ground and round up the escaped and bring them back to face their fate. But to do this he needs the help of Eva. I'm not going to tell you why, because I thought that was a cool twist on the story, but I will say that you find out the basic nuts and bolts of why pretty early on. The rest of Amber Smoke is a big chase basically to find Eva and deal with the fall out of an on going crime spree investigation. There was a lot going on in Amber Smoke, and we were dropped into a world on the edge of turmoil. As a result, some parts of the story were mysterious and kind of confusing. More questions were created than were answered, but I feel confident that the next book will answer a lot of those questions and I think the series is just going to continue to get better.
Amber Smoke felt darker than the House of Night series. It was interesting to see this darker spin on mythology. I loved how Kristin Cast took some mythology elements and then twisted them, and turned them and made them completely her own. This is unlike any mythology book that I have read so far in the Young Adult genre. There is very light romance, mostly in the second half of the book, with the strong hint of much more to come. I think that is another reason why the second book and I are going to be best buds. I just know that Alek and Eva are on the edge of some strong feelings, and I can't wait!
Amber Smoke does a good job setting up what looks to be an action packed and interesting new series. I am very intrigued to see what Kristin Cast has in store for us next, and I am more than a little wary to meet some of the other escaped. These "guys" are creepy, deranged and plain icky. Amber Smoke felt like a paranormal crime noir show, with mythology mixtd in for good measure. It's a really cool concept. Fans of mythology and darker fantasies and paranormals should check out the first book in the Escaped Series.
This review was originally posted on Book Briefs
Amber Smoke is the first solo book by House of Night author, Kristin Cast. It is the start of a new young adult fantasy/mythology series, called the Escaped. I didn't initially realize that this had to do with mythology when I read the description. It talked about souls escaping from their cages, but those cages are their prison in Tartarus. Once I started reading and realized this, I was super excited. Amber Smoke is a very fast paced and quick read. It set up the series pretty well, but not a whole ton actually happened in this book. And more questions were posed than answered. Still, I am more than intrigued enough to want to know what is going to happen next.
Amber Smoke is told for multiple perspectives because the two main characters start out in different realms and don't know each other. The furies had a son, Alek, that was to be the warrior of the underworld. To break a curse, he has to go above ground and round up the escaped and bring them back to face their fate. But to do this he needs the help of Eva. I'm not going to tell you why, because I thought that was a cool twist on the story, but I will say that you find out the basic nuts and bolts of why pretty early on. The rest of Amber Smoke is a big chase basically to find Eva and deal with the fall out of an on going crime spree investigation. There was a lot going on in Amber Smoke, and we were dropped into a world on the edge of turmoil. As a result, some parts of the story were mysterious and kind of confusing. More questions were created than were answered, but I feel confident that the next book will answer a lot of those questions and I think the series is just going to continue to get better.
Amber Smoke felt darker than the House of Night series. It was interesting to see this darker spin on mythology. I loved how Kristin Cast took some mythology elements and then twisted them, and turned them and made them completely her own. This is unlike any mythology book that I have read so far in the Young Adult genre. There is very light romance, mostly in the second half of the book, with the strong hint of much more to come. I think that is another reason why the second book and I are going to be best buds. I just know that Alek and Eva are on the edge of some strong feelings, and I can't wait!
Amber Smoke does a good job setting up what looks to be an action packed and interesting new series. I am very intrigued to see what Kristin Cast has in store for us next, and I am more than a little wary to meet some of the other escaped. These "guys" are creepy, deranged and plain icky. Amber Smoke felt like a paranormal crime noir show, with mythology mixtd in for good measure. It's a really cool concept. Fans of mythology and darker fantasies and paranormals should check out the first book in the Escaped Series.
This review was originally posted on Book Briefs
**You can see this full review and more at Book Briefs: http://bookbriefs.net**
Tess in Boots is a clean new adult contemporary romance. It is a starting over story, where the main character needs to get away from her current life. Tess lost her job right before she was supposed to get a big promotion and her boyfriend was being all "dud-like". Not wanting to move forward or do much of anything after being together seven years. So when her brother calls her up out of the blue and tells her he needs her help with a vineyard in North Carolina, she figures it will be a bit of a much needed vacation for her. What it ended up being was a fresh start. I love these kinds of books. Where the main character does something completely different with their life. Those are the books that are completely about them finding themselves, or reinventing themselves into the versions they wanted to be in the first place.
Tess in Boots was a really cute read. It has a nice romance in it, even if you don't always know which way it was going to go. I couldn't get enough of Thatcher. His feelings for Tess seemed a little abrupt but he is the kind of sweet genuine guy that can pull that off. I loved all of Tess' marketing ideas for the vineyard. Plus the whole small town vibe feel of the book with all the overly nosey townspeople, were perfect for the book. I love small town settings.
There were times while reading Tess in Boots that I genuinely had no idea which direction the story was going to take. It could have gone any number of ways, and that was part of the appeal. Now when we got down to the end of the book, I did know what I wanted to happen and I still wasn't even sure if it was going to or not. I think I would have been disappointed if it didn't turn out the way I wanted to. I'm not going to say what way that was, or if it happened. But you might be surprised because there is no "good guy" and "bad guy" in Tess in Boots. Logan was a pleasant surprise to me. And Thatcher had so much more going on than I initially thought. Tess is one lucky lady, that is all I will say.
The most satisfying part of the book was not the romance. It was the growth that Tess discovered within herself. I loved the new direction she took her life in. And I would love another book or novella to check in with her and see what she does with it . If you are looking for a really heartwarming and sweet clean new adult/adult romance, check out Tess in Boots.
This review was originally posted on Book Briefs
Tess in Boots is a clean new adult contemporary romance. It is a starting over story, where the main character needs to get away from her current life. Tess lost her job right before she was supposed to get a big promotion and her boyfriend was being all "dud-like". Not wanting to move forward or do much of anything after being together seven years. So when her brother calls her up out of the blue and tells her he needs her help with a vineyard in North Carolina, she figures it will be a bit of a much needed vacation for her. What it ended up being was a fresh start. I love these kinds of books. Where the main character does something completely different with their life. Those are the books that are completely about them finding themselves, or reinventing themselves into the versions they wanted to be in the first place.
Tess in Boots was a really cute read. It has a nice romance in it, even if you don't always know which way it was going to go. I couldn't get enough of Thatcher. His feelings for Tess seemed a little abrupt but he is the kind of sweet genuine guy that can pull that off. I loved all of Tess' marketing ideas for the vineyard. Plus the whole small town vibe feel of the book with all the overly nosey townspeople, were perfect for the book. I love small town settings.
There were times while reading Tess in Boots that I genuinely had no idea which direction the story was going to take. It could have gone any number of ways, and that was part of the appeal. Now when we got down to the end of the book, I did know what I wanted to happen and I still wasn't even sure if it was going to or not. I think I would have been disappointed if it didn't turn out the way I wanted to. I'm not going to say what way that was, or if it happened. But you might be surprised because there is no "good guy" and "bad guy" in Tess in Boots. Logan was a pleasant surprise to me. And Thatcher had so much more going on than I initially thought. Tess is one lucky lady, that is all I will say.
The most satisfying part of the book was not the romance. It was the growth that Tess discovered within herself. I loved the new direction she took her life in. And I would love another book or novella to check in with her and see what she does with it . If you are looking for a really heartwarming and sweet clean new adult/adult romance, check out Tess in Boots.
This review was originally posted on Book Briefs
**You can see this full review and more at Book Briefs: http://bookbriefs.net**
After Hours is a salacious book that is as fun as it is crazy. And trust me, it is very crazy. It kind of reminded me of Gossip Girl mixed with The Bling Ring- that movie based on a true story of the teenage girls that broke into celebrity houses in California. And I don't mean in the sense that After Hours was about rich kids on the upper east side or that they broke into celebrity houses, I just mean that the teens had the same totally insane jaded, I am going to do things that normal teenagers wouldn't even dream of at my age. Or maybe more kids do these things than I thought. What do I know? (I just know, that I didn't know anyone doing some of this stuff when I was Isa, Xavi, Peter, and Finn's age.)
After Hours takes place at a nice restuarant during summer. But afterhours in the restaurant is when things really heat up. The waiters, and boss, play this game called TIPS. The book describes tips as “...a game that’s been running for about thirty years. Every two weeks, the staff contributes about 20 percent of their tips into a pot for a chance to take an unknown dare." Winner takes all. The idea of tips made for a very interesting premise for the book. I enjoyed this book, but I couldn't take it too seriously, otherwise I just wanted to get help for every one of these teens. But taking it as a fun summer read, I really enjoyed it. There are hints of romance, but not between the couple I wanted right from the start of the book. Darn you Claire! You know I wanted to seeIsa and Finn get together!
You should pick up After Hours when you are looking for a wild crazy ride. If you like scandal and reality tv, even better. This is a book that you should read with some popcorn at hand. I think they would make a great CW tv show. I thought the tips game was the extent of the crazy that Isa, Xavi, Peter, and Finn would get into, but boy oh boy was I wrong. This book just kept building right until the very end! It is told in alternating points of view between the four main characters. I liked Finn the best followed closely by Peter and Isa. I don't know what was wrong with me when it came to Xavi, but there was always a slight disconnect when it came to her. I also felt like Isa's story was kind of incomplete. I wish we got to see more of her. Maybe in another book? hint hint.
Bottom Line: After Hours is a fun and crazy ride. Teens gone wild. I acknowledge that this will probably not be a book that is loved by everyone. It deals with some insane issues and is not always PC. It should not be read by people that dislike scandal or teens engaging in adult and maybe slightly illegal behavior. But it should be read by people that don't mind that and like a little crazy in their books. I had a lot of fun with After Hours. Just let go and go with it.
This review was originally posted on Book Briefs
After Hours is a salacious book that is as fun as it is crazy. And trust me, it is very crazy. It kind of reminded me of Gossip Girl mixed with The Bling Ring- that movie based on a true story of the teenage girls that broke into celebrity houses in California. And I don't mean in the sense that After Hours was about rich kids on the upper east side or that they broke into celebrity houses, I just mean that the teens had the same totally insane jaded, I am going to do things that normal teenagers wouldn't even dream of at my age. Or maybe more kids do these things than I thought. What do I know? (I just know, that I didn't know anyone doing some of this stuff when I was Isa, Xavi, Peter, and Finn's age.)
After Hours takes place at a nice restuarant during summer. But afterhours in the restaurant is when things really heat up. The waiters, and boss, play this game called TIPS. The book describes tips as “...a game that’s been running for about thirty years. Every two weeks, the staff contributes about 20 percent of their tips into a pot for a chance to take an unknown dare." Winner takes all. The idea of tips made for a very interesting premise for the book. I enjoyed this book, but I couldn't take it too seriously, otherwise I just wanted to get help for every one of these teens. But taking it as a fun summer read, I really enjoyed it. There are hints of romance, but not between the couple I wanted right from the start of the book. Darn you Claire! You know I wanted to see
You should pick up After Hours when you are looking for a wild crazy ride. If you like scandal and reality tv, even better. This is a book that you should read with some popcorn at hand. I think they would make a great CW tv show. I thought the tips game was the extent of the crazy that Isa, Xavi, Peter, and Finn would get into, but boy oh boy was I wrong. This book just kept building right until the very end! It is told in alternating points of view between the four main characters. I liked Finn the best followed closely by Peter and Isa. I don't know what was wrong with me when it came to Xavi, but there was always a slight disconnect when it came to her. I also felt like Isa's story was kind of incomplete. I wish we got to see more of her. Maybe in another book? hint hint.
Bottom Line: After Hours is a fun and crazy ride. Teens gone wild. I acknowledge that this will probably not be a book that is loved by everyone. It deals with some insane issues and is not always PC. It should not be read by people that dislike scandal or teens engaging in adult and maybe slightly illegal behavior. But it should be read by people that don't mind that and like a little crazy in their books. I had a lot of fun with After Hours. Just let go and go with it.
This review was originally posted on Book Briefs
**You can see this full review and more at Book Briefs: http://bookbriefs.net**
Forged in Stone is the first book in a new series, The Forged Chronicles by Alyssa Rose Ivy. I jump at any book Alyssa Rose Ivy writes. I just love her and I pretty much know that I will get a good story with all of her books. That being said, I still normally do my due diligence with review requests. But when Alyssa Rose Ivy emailed me asking if I wanted an ARC of Forged in Stone I just said yes. And yes before you freak out, I did really enjoy the book. (duh.) But I had no idea what it would be about when I started reading it. None at all. So I am going to give you my initial blank slate impressions/embarrassing realizations.
Forged in Stone starts off feeling very contemporary romance. So I started to slip into my new adult contemporary comfort zone, and then things started feeling a little fantasy/paranormal. Oh boy was I intrigued. But wait, the confessions don't stop there. Because then things started to feel a little fantasy/paranormal and a little familiar. The first book I ever read by Alyssa Rose Ivy was Beckoning Light way back in 2011, which was part of the afterglow trilogy. I really liked it and the world that opened up behind that garden gate, but I didn't finish the series. (I have no idea why and I must rectified that soon.) BUT I soon realized that The Forged Chronicles is set in the same world as the afterglow trilogy! It is about 10 years down the road and deals with one of the characters- James, that I don't really remember too much about from Beckoning Light. So moral of this very long story. I can't believe that I had no idea 1) this was a fantasy/paranormal and 2) it was a spin off series of the Afterglow Series. But know you do know those things from my embarrassing little blunder.
Forged in Stone is a really nice fantasy/paranormal, that had a very romantic feel to it. I loved James, and even though he was a bit cheesy at points, he can pull it off oh so well. His connection with Ainsley was lovely. And watching her fight him at every step really amused me. The pull that they feel towards each other is fully explained throughout the course of the story and I have to admit it was my favorite aspect. I can't wait to read books 2 and 3 in the Afterglow trilogy so I can get more background on their world and the essence. But you do not have to read that series to enjoy this one. Alyssa Rose Ivy always does a great job giving enough context and background with her stories so readers are not lost.
Forged in Stone is great for fans of fantasy/ paranormal romances. This one felt really sweet and romantic, but the end was like a kick in the gut that I was not expecting at all. I was feeling all lovey dovey and mushy towards the characters and then the twist at the end hinted at a much darker second book. I can't wait! Another great series by Alyssa Rose Ivy. If you have not had the pleasure of reading Alyssa's books yet, you need to.
This review was originally posted on Book Briefs
Forged in Stone is the first book in a new series, The Forged Chronicles by Alyssa Rose Ivy. I jump at any book Alyssa Rose Ivy writes. I just love her and I pretty much know that I will get a good story with all of her books. That being said, I still normally do my due diligence with review requests. But when Alyssa Rose Ivy emailed me asking if I wanted an ARC of Forged in Stone I just said yes. And yes before you freak out, I did really enjoy the book. (duh.) But I had no idea what it would be about when I started reading it. None at all. So I am going to give you my initial blank slate impressions/embarrassing realizations.
Forged in Stone starts off feeling very contemporary romance. So I started to slip into my new adult contemporary comfort zone, and then things started feeling a little fantasy/paranormal. Oh boy was I intrigued. But wait, the confessions don't stop there. Because then things started to feel a little fantasy/paranormal and a little familiar. The first book I ever read by Alyssa Rose Ivy was Beckoning Light way back in 2011, which was part of the afterglow trilogy. I really liked it and the world that opened up behind that garden gate, but I didn't finish the series. (I have no idea why and I must rectified that soon.) BUT I soon realized that The Forged Chronicles is set in the same world as the afterglow trilogy! It is about 10 years down the road and deals with one of the characters- James, that I don't really remember too much about from Beckoning Light. So moral of this very long story. I can't believe that I had no idea 1) this was a fantasy/paranormal and 2) it was a spin off series of the Afterglow Series. But know you do know those things from my embarrassing little blunder.
Forged in Stone is a really nice fantasy/paranormal, that had a very romantic feel to it. I loved James, and even though he was a bit cheesy at points, he can pull it off oh so well. His connection with Ainsley was lovely. And watching her fight him at every step really amused me. The pull that they feel towards each other is fully explained throughout the course of the story and I have to admit it was my favorite aspect. I can't wait to read books 2 and 3 in the Afterglow trilogy so I can get more background on their world and the essence. But you do not have to read that series to enjoy this one. Alyssa Rose Ivy always does a great job giving enough context and background with her stories so readers are not lost.
Forged in Stone is great for fans of fantasy/ paranormal romances. This one felt really sweet and romantic, but the end was like a kick in the gut that I was not expecting at all. I was feeling all lovey dovey and mushy towards the characters and then the twist at the end hinted at a much darker second book. I can't wait! Another great series by Alyssa Rose Ivy. If you have not had the pleasure of reading Alyssa's books yet, you need to.
This review was originally posted on Book Briefs
**You can see this full review and more at Book Briefs: http://bookbriefs.net**
1.5/5
Rules of Payne is a new adult or adult (I think it could go either way) romantic comedy. I didn't really love the cover of the book, but I loved the summary of the book. I am a big fan of rules to follow type books, and office romances, especially in the comedy arena because it normally will lead to some very funny scenes. And I can see where some people would enjoy that aspect of Rules of Payne, but this book really did not work for me. I am sad to say it, but if based on the summary you think it will be a hit for you- I have linked a couple of reviews from people that really Enjoyed Rules of Payne.
Rules of Payne is the first book in the Cake Love series. And yes, the main character really liked cake. I really, really wanted to like Morgana. I so did. And Payne- Morgana's boss. I liked him ok, but my real issue came with Morgana. And that is almost a kiss of death for me. I wanted her to be ambitious and quirky and witty. And she was...kind of. It is hard to pin down exactly what my issue was with Morgana. Because I couldn't connect with her and that just ruined my chances with Rules of Payne. Morgana was funny, but she just wouldn't take a breath. She was exhausting. Her conversations always read to me like "and this. and this. and this! and this!!! and and andnand and and...etc" I couldn't really get to know her because she wouldn't slow down enough to let me.
This book is a very fast read, which was a good thing because if it had been much longer I am almost positive that I wouldn't have been able to get through it. I so very much wanted this to be a fun and sexy read, but it felt more cringe worthy than fun to me. I couldn't connect with the characters and the pace of the book seemed disjointed and always at a sprint. I couldn't get into it enough to enjoy it. So not the book for me, but for those of you that like instant gratification and funny (in its' own way) stories, you may completely fall in love with the Rules of Payne and Cake Love series like the readers below. Check it out if you think you will enjoy it more than I did, and please let me know your thoughts after reading it.
This review was originally posted on Book Briefs
1.5/5
Rules of Payne is a new adult or adult (I think it could go either way) romantic comedy. I didn't really love the cover of the book, but I loved the summary of the book. I am a big fan of rules to follow type books, and office romances, especially in the comedy arena because it normally will lead to some very funny scenes. And I can see where some people would enjoy that aspect of Rules of Payne, but this book really did not work for me. I am sad to say it, but if based on the summary you think it will be a hit for you- I have linked a couple of reviews from people that really Enjoyed Rules of Payne.
Rules of Payne is the first book in the Cake Love series. And yes, the main character really liked cake. I really, really wanted to like Morgana. I so did. And Payne- Morgana's boss. I liked him ok, but my real issue came with Morgana. And that is almost a kiss of death for me. I wanted her to be ambitious and quirky and witty. And she was...kind of. It is hard to pin down exactly what my issue was with Morgana. Because I couldn't connect with her and that just ruined my chances with Rules of Payne. Morgana was funny, but she just wouldn't take a breath. She was exhausting. Her conversations always read to me like "and this. and this. and this! and this!!! and and andnand and and...etc" I couldn't really get to know her because she wouldn't slow down enough to let me.
This book is a very fast read, which was a good thing because if it had been much longer I am almost positive that I wouldn't have been able to get through it. I so very much wanted this to be a fun and sexy read, but it felt more cringe worthy than fun to me. I couldn't connect with the characters and the pace of the book seemed disjointed and always at a sprint. I couldn't get into it enough to enjoy it. So not the book for me, but for those of you that like instant gratification and funny (in its' own way) stories, you may completely fall in love with the Rules of Payne and Cake Love series like the readers below. Check it out if you think you will enjoy it more than I did, and please let me know your thoughts after reading it.
This review was originally posted on Book Briefs
**You can see this full review and more at Book Briefs: http://bookbriefs.net**
Killer Within is the second book in the young adult Killer Instinct series by S.E. Green. I really liked the first book, and the second book is even crazier. There is so much going on in this book and I am going to try my best to describe this book without spoilers, but it picks up right after the events of the first story, which is a huge spoiler in and of itself. So if you are new to the series, you might be better checking out my review of book 1- Killer Instinct here.
Killer Instinct totally took me by surprise with that insane ending. I did not see it coming at all. So in Killer Within Lane is struggling with the fallout of that last scene, as well as still trying to find her place not only in the world but also within herself. Lane was called the masked savior for some of her actions in the first book, and much of the second book deals with how the community perceives the masked savior. I really liked the website that popped up. And of course, some copy cats also popped up. So that was part of the mystery of this book. Along with a couple of new mysterious characters, there was plenty for Lane to sort out. Some characters I really liked, and some I loved to hate. And if you can get over the fact that this seems to be the most dangerous and killer heavy town in the united states, this book is a wild and really fun journey.
I love Lane. I am such a huge fan of hers, and most of the reason I like her is that she is not your typically heroine. She struggles with questions of morality, and who she is and what she wants to do and be. I really liked that aspect of her. She seemed softer and more emotional in Killer Within. I know Lane likes to think of herself as this stoic, unfeeling person, but I don't think that is true at all. I think we saw some truly evil characters in book 1 and now in book 2 and I wouldn't include Lane in them. Not even close. I just hope that Lane sees that and believes that. I really like this series. I think they are super fast and easy reads that captivate you and hold your attention. I was so quickly drawn in to Lane's world and I was just as wrapped up in finding the copycats and M and j-d-l as she was. I devoured this book in one night. It is so deliciously twisted.
This review was originally posted on Book Briefs
Killer Within is the second book in the young adult Killer Instinct series by S.E. Green. I really liked the first book, and the second book is even crazier. There is so much going on in this book and I am going to try my best to describe this book without spoilers, but it picks up right after the events of the first story, which is a huge spoiler in and of itself. So if you are new to the series, you might be better checking out my review of book 1- Killer Instinct here.
Killer Instinct totally took me by surprise with that insane ending. I did not see it coming at all. So in Killer Within Lane is struggling with the fallout of that last scene, as well as still trying to find her place not only in the world but also within herself. Lane was called the masked savior for some of her actions in the first book, and much of the second book deals with how the community perceives the masked savior. I really liked the website that popped up. And of course, some copy cats also popped up. So that was part of the mystery of this book. Along with a couple of new mysterious characters, there was plenty for Lane to sort out. Some characters I really liked, and some I loved to hate. And if you can get over the fact that this seems to be the most dangerous and killer heavy town in the united states, this book is a wild and really fun journey.
I love Lane. I am such a huge fan of hers, and most of the reason I like her is that she is not your typically heroine. She struggles with questions of morality, and who she is and what she wants to do and be. I really liked that aspect of her. She seemed softer and more emotional in Killer Within. I know Lane likes to think of herself as this stoic, unfeeling person, but I don't think that is true at all. I think we saw some truly evil characters in book 1 and now in book 2 and I wouldn't include Lane in them. Not even close. I just hope that Lane sees that and believes that. I really like this series. I think they are super fast and easy reads that captivate you and hold your attention. I was so quickly drawn in to Lane's world and I was just as wrapped up in finding the copycats and M and j-d-l as she was. I devoured this book in one night. It is so deliciously twisted.
This review was originally posted on Book Briefs
**You can see this full review and more at Book Briefs: http://bookbriefs.net**
4.5/5
Crimson Bound is a standalone young adult fantasy. I am hesitant to call it a re-telling or even a re-imagining of Little Red Riding hood (or the Girl with No Hands, which I have not read) because it is so utterly unique and different from anything I have read, that it almost isn't fair to Crimson Bound to be making those comparisons. I have not had the chance to read Cruel Beauty yet, but the book is basically at the very tippity top of my wishlist! I want it so bad, and I have to admit that I want it even worse after reading Crimson Bound.
It is hard for me to put into words the way that Crimson Bound made me feel, and exactly why I loved it so much. But I do know this...it was the writing. Rosamund Hodge is an incredible story teller. Her writing feels rich and thick. Her words wrap you up so completely until you are a part of the world she is creating. And oh, what a world! I bow down to her world building abilities. I loved the way she initially wove in the basics of the world and their myths through young Rachelle's lessons. After the first two chapters it took a couple more chapters for me to gain my bearings because the events jump ahead a bit in the beginning. But once you get your fantasy legs on, it is like a very creapy and wonderfully detailed playground for your imagination. I loved reading about the palaces and the Great Forest. I was all at once fascinated and terrified of it, alongside of Rachelle.
And speaking of Rachelle, I really liked her. Even when I was shaking my head at her, I still really really liked her. There is something compelling about her. She is complicated and her view of herself endeared her to me. She wasn't easy on herself. But the great characters didn't stop at Rachelle, the whole cast were excellently portrayed. I love that this book was set in French history. The salon's and salon ladies were a great addition, that I wouldn't have thought of with this book.
I am kind of in love with this book, and I know I am head over heels in love with Rosamund Hodge's writing. I need her to write more books because she transported me to another world that I could have sworn I could see, smell and touch while I was reading Crimson Bound. And if the beyond brilliant writing, and characters aren't enough, the plot of Crimson Bound will have you guessing up until the very end. I really enjoyed this book. You need to experience its' magic for yourself.
This review was originally posted on Book Briefs
4.5/5
Crimson Bound is a standalone young adult fantasy. I am hesitant to call it a re-telling or even a re-imagining of Little Red Riding hood (or the Girl with No Hands, which I have not read) because it is so utterly unique and different from anything I have read, that it almost isn't fair to Crimson Bound to be making those comparisons. I have not had the chance to read Cruel Beauty yet, but the book is basically at the very tippity top of my wishlist! I want it so bad, and I have to admit that I want it even worse after reading Crimson Bound.
It is hard for me to put into words the way that Crimson Bound made me feel, and exactly why I loved it so much. But I do know this...it was the writing. Rosamund Hodge is an incredible story teller. Her writing feels rich and thick. Her words wrap you up so completely until you are a part of the world she is creating. And oh, what a world! I bow down to her world building abilities. I loved the way she initially wove in the basics of the world and their myths through young Rachelle's lessons. After the first two chapters it took a couple more chapters for me to gain my bearings because the events jump ahead a bit in the beginning. But once you get your fantasy legs on, it is like a very creapy and wonderfully detailed playground for your imagination. I loved reading about the palaces and the Great Forest. I was all at once fascinated and terrified of it, alongside of Rachelle.
And speaking of Rachelle, I really liked her. Even when I was shaking my head at her, I still really really liked her. There is something compelling about her. She is complicated and her view of herself endeared her to me. She wasn't easy on herself. But the great characters didn't stop at Rachelle, the whole cast were excellently portrayed. I love that this book was set in French history. The salon's and salon ladies were a great addition, that I wouldn't have thought of with this book.
I am kind of in love with this book, and I know I am head over heels in love with Rosamund Hodge's writing. I need her to write more books because she transported me to another world that I could have sworn I could see, smell and touch while I was reading Crimson Bound. And if the beyond brilliant writing, and characters aren't enough, the plot of Crimson Bound will have you guessing up until the very end. I really enjoyed this book. You need to experience its' magic for yourself.
This review was originally posted on Book Briefs
**You can see this full review and more at Book Briefs: http://bookbriefs.net**
Note: I will try my best, but there will probably be some spoilers from the first two books. If you are new to the series, check out my review of The Collectors' Society HERE and my review of the Hidden Library HERE. These books need to be read in order.
The Forgotten Mountain is the third book in the New Adult Fantasy Series, The Collectors' Society. And I have to first mention how much I love these covers. They are some of my favorite covers for any series. Which is fitting because The Collectors' Society is ONE OF MY FAVORITE SERIES OF ALL TIME. The First book, The Collectors' Society, was one of my favorite books of 2014, and The Hidden Library was another favorite. I can't remember a series where every single book has gotten a full 5/5 stars from me. But truth be told, the books in the Collectors' Society deserve more than 5 stars each. This is such an amazing series, and Heather Lyons really ripped my heart out with the Forgotten Mountain.
The Forgotten Mountain picks up right where the Hidden Library left off, with that awful ending. Because of what is going on with my poor Finn, a lot of this book is told through Alice's point of view. I really do love Alice. She is so strong and loyal and sharp. I love her ability to see through everything and read people so well. And I love that we still get words of advice from the catepillar. Heather Lyons has such a way with words, everytime I see her talk about someone from wonderful, I feel like I am reading Lewis Carroll himself. She has captured the essence of the books in her timelines so well, all the while putting her own crazy spin on them. In the Forgotten Mountain we get to see some Grimm Brother tales and their time lines. Creepy places, they are. Think the Brother's Grimm movie with Matt Damon, and not the Disney version of the tales.
I was so proud of myself for calling one of the villians in this book, but that one thing (lygari) was the only thing I seemed to get right. Heather Lyons continues to surprise and delight me with her masterful writing and story telling. I am so in awe of Heather and her writing. I read The Forgotten Mountain with wide eyes and dropped jaw, bouncing on the edge of my seat the whole time. The characters all hold a place in my heart, some I hate, some I love, and some totally creep me out, but everyone in this very large cast of characters are so distinct that they stay with me long after I put this book down.
Heather is the best at weaving different characters, clues, and minor plot points that come into play later. I just love reading her books, even when she does things that make me want to cry. Her writing is so exciting and emotional. I want to live inside this series. I just love it so much. Everyone needs to read these books. If you are looking for a fantasy series, an action series, a series for lovers of classic literature, a romance, or just a series that is original and so well done- you are looking at the Collectors' Society Series! It is all of those things and so much more. The ending of this book completely wrecked me. I need the next book now. I cannot say it enough, this is one of my all time favorite series. Read this series! If you haven't you are doing yourself a disservice.
Other books in the Collector's Society Series:
