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**You can see this full review and more at Book Briefs: http://bookbriefs.net**The Morrigna is the first book in the Maurin Kincaide series by Rachel Rawlings. the Maurin Kincaide series is an adult urban fantasy series that reminded me of Desires of Demons by Debra Dunbar, in the fact that there were lots of paranormals coming together. I had some issues with the world building in this one, but once I got into the swing of the book it was a nice read. Nothing earth shattering, and it wasn't my favorite book that I have ever read, but it was good. And hardcore fans of urban fantasy and paranormals should check out this series, because there are already 4 or 5 books out, so you can get your instant gratification fix.
The redeeming thing abut The Morrigna was the main character, Maurin Kincaide. I really enjoyed her, and if I do continue on with this series, it will be because of her. I also really enjoyed the romance aspect of this story. It wasn't who I initially pegged that it would be with, which was a fun surprise for me. Although, as soon as we were introduced to the real love interest, it made perfect sense to me.
The hard part for me was that we were dumped into this world rather abrubtly, right in the middle of the characters day. It seemed like were were coming into the middle of this investigation without any real development of the who or the why. We were left to figure those things out on the fly. It felt like I was reading a second or third book in the series. I wanted a little more backstory up front. A little more on the lay of the land and who the big players were. But I stuck with it, and once I pushed past my initial confusion (and I was pretty confused for the first 1/3 of the story) the plot starts to gain some real momentum, which was nice. Once that happened, and I was able to get into the plot, I started enjoying the story more.
The Morrigna is packed with action and tons of paranormal creatures. Psychics, witches, demons, vampires and all the typical sorts are out to play, with a special interest in the witches. This was a good first book, but I still felt like the world was lacking up front.
Bottom line: if you can't get enough urban fantasy and paranormal romances, this is a series to add to your TBR list. You will be able to read the books back to back and they have a strong main character. If you are picky about your world building, this book gets off to a slow start on that front.
This review was originally posted on Book Briefs
The redeeming thing abut The Morrigna was the main character, Maurin Kincaide. I really enjoyed her, and if I do continue on with this series, it will be because of her. I also really enjoyed the romance aspect of this story. It wasn't who I initially pegged that it would be with, which was a fun surprise for me. Although, as soon as we were introduced to the real love interest, it made perfect sense to me.
The hard part for me was that we were dumped into this world rather abrubtly, right in the middle of the characters day. It seemed like were were coming into the middle of this investigation without any real development of the who or the why. We were left to figure those things out on the fly. It felt like I was reading a second or third book in the series. I wanted a little more backstory up front. A little more on the lay of the land and who the big players were. But I stuck with it, and once I pushed past my initial confusion (and I was pretty confused for the first 1/3 of the story) the plot starts to gain some real momentum, which was nice. Once that happened, and I was able to get into the plot, I started enjoying the story more.
The Morrigna is packed with action and tons of paranormal creatures. Psychics, witches, demons, vampires and all the typical sorts are out to play, with a special interest in the witches. This was a good first book, but I still felt like the world was lacking up front.
Bottom line: if you can't get enough urban fantasy and paranormal romances, this is a series to add to your TBR list. You will be able to read the books back to back and they have a strong main character. If you are picky about your world building, this book gets off to a slow start on that front.
This review was originally posted on Book Briefs
French Kiss For Hire
Amanda Lance, Nana Malone, Nikki Jefford, Amanda Askel, Lizzy Ford, Morgan Wylie
**You can see this full review and more at Book Briefs: http://bookbriefs.net**
French Kiss for Hire is a new kind of series. One that I have never seen before, and seems like a very cool idea. Each installment, or serial for this series is written by a different author. But when you put all of the serial installments together it forms a complete story. I have only read the first episode, and they are not divulging yet which author wrote it, so it will be interesting to see if there are big writing style differences between the episodes. I can't wait to see what the finished product will look like.
I am really not sure who the first episode was written by but it was a cute start to a promising series. I really liked how adorably head over heels Luc is for Serena. The jury is still out on her, by the way. I actually like the girl that finds Luc through Serena more than Serena herself. But what I like most is that he seems to be the main character of the series. I hope the focus stays on him.
Though the characters are new adult aged, the writing and depth of story so far seems to be on the younger end of the new adult spectrum. That could entirely be because we are just getting started. Episode one could be gearing up a whole number of new things and directions for the characters and plot, and I can't wait to see what is going to happen next.
Bottom line: French Kiss for Hire is a quick, fun read that has a lot of promise. And I love the idea that different authors will be writing each serial. I can't wait to see how Luc's story is going to turn out.
This review was originally posted on Book Briefs
French Kiss for Hire is a new kind of series. One that I have never seen before, and seems like a very cool idea. Each installment, or serial for this series is written by a different author. But when you put all of the serial installments together it forms a complete story. I have only read the first episode, and they are not divulging yet which author wrote it, so it will be interesting to see if there are big writing style differences between the episodes. I can't wait to see what the finished product will look like.
I am really not sure who the first episode was written by but it was a cute start to a promising series. I really liked how adorably head over heels Luc is for Serena. The jury is still out on her, by the way. I actually like the girl that finds Luc through Serena more than Serena herself. But what I like most is that he seems to be the main character of the series. I hope the focus stays on him.
Though the characters are new adult aged, the writing and depth of story so far seems to be on the younger end of the new adult spectrum. That could entirely be because we are just getting started. Episode one could be gearing up a whole number of new things and directions for the characters and plot, and I can't wait to see what is going to happen next.
Bottom line: French Kiss for Hire is a quick, fun read that has a lot of promise. And I love the idea that different authors will be writing each serial. I can't wait to see how Luc's story is going to turn out.
This review was originally posted on Book Briefs
**You can see this full review and more at Book Briefs: http://bookbriefs.net**
Ignited is the first book in the young adult fantasy and mythology series of the same name by Desni Dantone. This book was written in 2013 and there are 4 books out in the series so far. Actually, the fourth book comes out next month (March 2016) so now is the perfect time to read the first three and get ready. I don't often get a chance to go back and start a series this late in the game, unless it is one that has been on my radar for a very long time. I just found out about the Ignited series this year, and because I love mythology so much, I couldn't pass it up. And now I am obsessed with it. I am so freakin' happy that there are 3 more books already out that I can read because I really want to keep reading. There is a bit of a love triangle, but I am shipping one side of hard and I really, really want to see if it is going to work out for them or not. (it better work out!)
It is hard to explain the plot of Ignited without giving too much away, because the summary on goodreads is very cryptic. I wouldn't have even known it was mythology if I didn't see that so many people had shelved it as that. (but if you would like to spoil it for yourself, books 3 and 4 have spoilers as to what exactly the mythological elements are, so read at your own risk.) I don't want to spoil it for too many people, but you do know that there is some paranormal or magical element at play in the story, and you do know that there are the "good side" and the "bad side". Being the astute readers that you are, I also know that you know one side of the love triangle falls on the good side and one falls on the bad side. But both of the guys are great. I just happen to like Nathan a lot more than Alec. I may change my mind later on, but I doubt it at this point. (though it has been known to happen) Team Nathan all the way!
Ignited was action packed and the overall story was extremely well done. This book will suck you in and hold you captive for the entire time. I really like Desni Dantone's writing, and I really like her mixture of adventure and romance. I hope there is more of that to come in the future books.
Bottom line: If you love action adventure fantasy books, and you are a sucker for a good mythology romance like I am, the Ignited series is the perfect read for you. Grab book one. I dare you not to get sucked in and immediately want to read books 2, 3, and 4. I know I am itching to get my hands on them.
This review was originally posted on Book Briefs
Ignited is the first book in the young adult fantasy and mythology series of the same name by Desni Dantone. This book was written in 2013 and there are 4 books out in the series so far. Actually, the fourth book comes out next month (March 2016) so now is the perfect time to read the first three and get ready. I don't often get a chance to go back and start a series this late in the game, unless it is one that has been on my radar for a very long time. I just found out about the Ignited series this year, and because I love mythology so much, I couldn't pass it up. And now I am obsessed with it. I am so freakin' happy that there are 3 more books already out that I can read because I really want to keep reading. There is a bit of a love triangle, but I am shipping one side of hard and I really, really want to see if it is going to work out for them or not. (it better work out!)
It is hard to explain the plot of Ignited without giving too much away, because the summary on goodreads is very cryptic. I wouldn't have even known it was mythology if I didn't see that so many people had shelved it as that. (but if you would like to spoil it for yourself, books 3 and 4 have spoilers as to what exactly the mythological elements are, so read at your own risk.) I don't want to spoil it for too many people, but you do know that there is some paranormal or magical element at play in the story, and you do know that there are the "good side" and the "bad side". Being the astute readers that you are, I also know that you know one side of the love triangle falls on the good side and one falls on the bad side. But both of the guys are great. I just happen to like Nathan a lot more than Alec. I may change my mind later on, but I doubt it at this point. (though it has been known to happen) Team Nathan all the way!
Ignited was action packed and the overall story was extremely well done. This book will suck you in and hold you captive for the entire time. I really like Desni Dantone's writing, and I really like her mixture of adventure and romance. I hope there is more of that to come in the future books.
Bottom line: If you love action adventure fantasy books, and you are a sucker for a good mythology romance like I am, the Ignited series is the perfect read for you. Grab book one. I dare you not to get sucked in and immediately want to read books 2, 3, and 4. I know I am itching to get my hands on them.
This review was originally posted on Book Briefs
**You can see this full review and more at Book Briefs: http://bookbriefs.net**
Never Never is a Peter Pan retelling told from Captain Hook's perspective. This standalone novel is Brianna Shrum's debut book and I thought she did a really good job with it. I loved that it was Hook's story. It was reminiscent of the kind of hook and pan from Once Upon a Time, so if you love Hook in that show as much as I do, this is a book you will want to check out. It features an evil Pan, and a more nuanced, but very much bent on revenge Hook. This Hook doesn't hold a candle to Storybrook's Hook, but it did come much closer than I expected it to.
Never Never follows Hook throughout his life, starting out when he was a small boy. This was his first run in with Peter Pan, and it was clear that as soon as Peter tricked Hook that his hatred started. And it only grew throughout the story. Hook is a very different person than many of Peter's lost boys. He did want to grow and, and further he wanted to go home. It was then that I started to feel for Hook. But don't get me wrong, he is not a woe is me, misunderstood-villain-that-is-really-a-hero. Maybe he is misunderstood, but he is also not a pure of heart person. He is not a hero. He is still Captain Hook and his story is the one that you know well, but that was kind of what I loved about Never Never. Author Brianna Strum takes the story that we all love, stays true to the events in it, but still manages to make us see the characters in a different light. It was really cool. There were many shades of gray to labeling Hook as a Villain. It was a highlight of the book for me. I always find it interesting to see a person change throughout their life and to see how their experiences shapes them.
The romance between Hook and Tiger Lily was a pleasant surprise as well. I didn't think Never Never would have quite as much romance in it. I have always seen Hook as kind of a solitary figure so it was both an adjustment and nice to see him interact with someone he genuinely cares for. I didn't love Tiger Lily (especially towards the end) but she was an interesting character.
Bottom line: if you are a fan of retellings, you should add this one to your TBR list. Especially if you like retellings from the point of view of unexpected characters. Whether you love Hook or you hate him, I think you will enjoy Never Never.
This review was originally posted on Book Briefs
Never Never is a Peter Pan retelling told from Captain Hook's perspective. This standalone novel is Brianna Shrum's debut book and I thought she did a really good job with it. I loved that it was Hook's story. It was reminiscent of the kind of hook and pan from Once Upon a Time, so if you love Hook in that show as much as I do, this is a book you will want to check out. It features an evil Pan, and a more nuanced, but very much bent on revenge Hook. This Hook doesn't hold a candle to Storybrook's Hook, but it did come much closer than I expected it to.
Never Never follows Hook throughout his life, starting out when he was a small boy. This was his first run in with Peter Pan, and it was clear that as soon as Peter tricked Hook that his hatred started. And it only grew throughout the story. Hook is a very different person than many of Peter's lost boys. He did want to grow and, and further he wanted to go home. It was then that I started to feel for Hook. But don't get me wrong, he is not a woe is me, misunderstood-villain-that-is-really-a-hero. Maybe he is misunderstood, but he is also not a pure of heart person. He is not a hero. He is still Captain Hook and his story is the one that you know well, but that was kind of what I loved about Never Never. Author Brianna Strum takes the story that we all love, stays true to the events in it, but still manages to make us see the characters in a different light. It was really cool. There were many shades of gray to labeling Hook as a Villain. It was a highlight of the book for me. I always find it interesting to see a person change throughout their life and to see how their experiences shapes them.
The romance between Hook and Tiger Lily was a pleasant surprise as well. I didn't think Never Never would have quite as much romance in it. I have always seen Hook as kind of a solitary figure so it was both an adjustment and nice to see him interact with someone he genuinely cares for. I didn't love Tiger Lily (especially towards the end) but she was an interesting character.
Bottom line: if you are a fan of retellings, you should add this one to your TBR list. Especially if you like retellings from the point of view of unexpected characters. Whether you love Hook or you hate him, I think you will enjoy Never Never.
This review was originally posted on Book Briefs
**You can see this full review and more at Book Briefs: http://bookbriefs.net**
A Friendly Flirtation is the third book in Friends First series by Christine Warner. I had no idea even while I was reading A Friendly Flirtation that it was the third book in a series, so I am can confidently say that each book reads 100% as a standalone. I really enjoyed A Friendly Flirtation; it was well written, had great characters and was a trope that I have really been enjoying lately. In fact, I want to read more best friend's sister stories. (so leave me recommendations of your favorites in the comments below.)
A Friendly Flirtation is told in dual narrative between Alison and Jared, although there were more chapters from Allison's point of view. I really enjoyed that this story didn't start off on a completely predictable foot. We start the story by Alison asking Jared for his help with her makeover that the summary alludes too, and Jared completely shoots her down. I was thinking, "ooh interesting" now how is she going to get his help? I thought he would have agreed, that is the typical course that this kind of story runs. But no, Alison is determined on her journey of self improvement and she decides to go at it alone. That made my admiration for her skyrocket. I loved her.
I was a little wary of Jared after the real makeover of Alison because he seemed a little insta loveish, and I didn't know what to do with him. But he very quickly won me over because he is such an open and genuine person, you can't help but like him. A Friendly Flirtation is a light hearted and fun, quick read.
Bottom line: if you love contemporary romances with quirky characters, and you can't pass up a good makeover story, A Friendly Flirtation is a fun read that you should not miss out on. It is great for fans of the falling for your best friend's sibling trope.
This review was originally posted on Book Briefs
A Friendly Flirtation is the third book in Friends First series by Christine Warner. I had no idea even while I was reading A Friendly Flirtation that it was the third book in a series, so I am can confidently say that each book reads 100% as a standalone. I really enjoyed A Friendly Flirtation; it was well written, had great characters and was a trope that I have really been enjoying lately. In fact, I want to read more best friend's sister stories. (so leave me recommendations of your favorites in the comments below.)
A Friendly Flirtation is told in dual narrative between Alison and Jared, although there were more chapters from Allison's point of view. I really enjoyed that this story didn't start off on a completely predictable foot. We start the story by Alison asking Jared for his help with her makeover that the summary alludes too, and Jared completely shoots her down. I was thinking, "ooh interesting" now how is she going to get his help? I thought he would have agreed, that is the typical course that this kind of story runs. But no, Alison is determined on her journey of self improvement and she decides to go at it alone. That made my admiration for her skyrocket. I loved her.
I was a little wary of Jared after the real makeover of Alison because he seemed a little insta loveish, and I didn't know what to do with him. But he very quickly won me over because he is such an open and genuine person, you can't help but like him. A Friendly Flirtation is a light hearted and fun, quick read.
Bottom line: if you love contemporary romances with quirky characters, and you can't pass up a good makeover story, A Friendly Flirtation is a fun read that you should not miss out on. It is great for fans of the falling for your best friend's sibling trope.
This review was originally posted on Book Briefs
**You can see this full review and more at Book Briefs: http://bookbriefs.net**
Bryce is the first book in the new adult, Scandalous Boys series by Natalie Decker. This is the first book that I have read by Natalie and I really enjoyed it. I loved contemporary romance books and I always enjoy a good, opposites attract story so this was right up my alley. Although I will say, that if you are feeling a bit burned out on new adult contemporary romances at the moment, I might give this one a pass . I really liked it, but I can see that it is much like a lot of the books in the genre. That doesn't get old for me, but I do acknowledge that it might for some people. So if that is you, wait and see what the next book in the series is like before you pick this one up.
Bryce is told in dual narrative between Bryce and Madison. They start the book out hating each other. Madison is Bryce's neighbor and she is always hanging around...because she has a crush on his best friend, Graham....who only seems to put up with Madison because she lets them copy his homework. This kind of irked me. I hate to see people get blatantly used like that, but luckily Bryce isn't the one using Madison, so it was easy for me to see past this pet peeve of mine. Bryce and Madison really start to bond when Madison's awful cousin comes into town and ends up staying with her family. I really loved to hate that girl. And she has no problem sweeping in and taking Graham from Madison, even though she doesn't really like him. (that is the kind of person she is.)
I enjoyed watching Bryce and Madison spend more time together because the change in Bryce was subtle but almost immediate. Madison and Bryce made each other better people. It was as simple as that. And that right there was my favorite aspect of the story. Bryce is a quick, feel good read about a couple that you want to root for, because each of them are better off when they are with the other.
Bottom line: Bryce is a fun story that will put a smile on your face. It is not the most original new adult contemporary ever written, but it is well done and it will make you feel good. And that is really all I am asking for in this genre of books.
This review was originally posted on Book Briefs
Bryce is the first book in the new adult, Scandalous Boys series by Natalie Decker. This is the first book that I have read by Natalie and I really enjoyed it. I loved contemporary romance books and I always enjoy a good, opposites attract story so this was right up my alley. Although I will say, that if you are feeling a bit burned out on new adult contemporary romances at the moment, I might give this one a pass . I really liked it, but I can see that it is much like a lot of the books in the genre. That doesn't get old for me, but I do acknowledge that it might for some people. So if that is you, wait and see what the next book in the series is like before you pick this one up.
Bryce is told in dual narrative between Bryce and Madison. They start the book out hating each other. Madison is Bryce's neighbor and she is always hanging around...because she has a crush on his best friend, Graham....who only seems to put up with Madison because she lets them copy his homework. This kind of irked me. I hate to see people get blatantly used like that, but luckily Bryce isn't the one using Madison, so it was easy for me to see past this pet peeve of mine. Bryce and Madison really start to bond when Madison's awful cousin comes into town and ends up staying with her family. I really loved to hate that girl. And she has no problem sweeping in and taking Graham from Madison, even though she doesn't really like him. (that is the kind of person she is.)
I enjoyed watching Bryce and Madison spend more time together because the change in Bryce was subtle but almost immediate. Madison and Bryce made each other better people. It was as simple as that. And that right there was my favorite aspect of the story. Bryce is a quick, feel good read about a couple that you want to root for, because each of them are better off when they are with the other.
Bottom line: Bryce is a fun story that will put a smile on your face. It is not the most original new adult contemporary ever written, but it is well done and it will make you feel good. And that is really all I am asking for in this genre of books.
This review was originally posted on Book Briefs
**You can see this full review and more at Book Briefs: http://bookbriefs.net**
Obsidian is the first in a new, young adult series by the same name by Kimberly Loth. I loved Obsidian. I find Dragons to be fascinating creatures, and I loved that this was a fantasy and magical realism book. It takes place in our world, but with one major difference...dragons are real and can be spotted all over the place. That sounds both amazing and terrifying.
Obsidian is told in dual narrative between Obsidian (or Sid) the dragon king, and Aspen. Each dragon king is made to spend 10 years as a human before he can take the throne. In that time he has to complete a whole set of tasks, left from all of the dragons before him. I really liked that each dragon added an item or two to the list. (it will be really interesting to see what Obsidian decides to add at the end of his 10 year, as a side note.) Obsidian waits until he is about 500 years old to start his 10 years as a human. He doesn't want to be king. He honestly just wants to be left alone, but that is not the future for him. I found Obsidian to be a really interesting character. I loved his fascination with Aspen, and I loved getting inside his head.
Aspen is much more interested in dragons than people. I loved learning about her backstory with the dragons and why she admired them so much. Aspen has friends, but no one really understands her and her love for the winged creatures like she wants...until Sid. It was so much fun trying to watch Sid break down the steel barriers that Aspen had constructed around herself to keep him at a distance. There were many times when I thought it was going to be impossible for him to win her over. But that fun is better left for you to discover when you read Obsidian.
I cannot wait for the second book in the series. This is going to be a great one, I can already tell. I love the lore behind the Dragons, and Sid and Aspen have completely stolen my heart. I have no idea how they are going to make it work, or even if they will be able to at all, but I am dying to find out. This story does end on one heck of a cliffhanger, and I have no clue how they are going to worm their way out of this one, but Kimberly Loth has certainly captured my attention. Obsidian is a must read series for me now.
Bottom line: if you like dragons or fantasy, or magical realism Obsidian is a book that should be on your radar. It has great characters, a great story line, awesome dragons, and a really sweet romance. Something for everyone. It is a quick read that you should not miss.
This review was originally posted on Book Briefs
Obsidian is the first in a new, young adult series by the same name by Kimberly Loth. I loved Obsidian. I find Dragons to be fascinating creatures, and I loved that this was a fantasy and magical realism book. It takes place in our world, but with one major difference...dragons are real and can be spotted all over the place. That sounds both amazing and terrifying.
Obsidian is told in dual narrative between Obsidian (or Sid) the dragon king, and Aspen. Each dragon king is made to spend 10 years as a human before he can take the throne. In that time he has to complete a whole set of tasks, left from all of the dragons before him. I really liked that each dragon added an item or two to the list. (it will be really interesting to see what Obsidian decides to add at the end of his 10 year, as a side note.) Obsidian waits until he is about 500 years old to start his 10 years as a human. He doesn't want to be king. He honestly just wants to be left alone, but that is not the future for him. I found Obsidian to be a really interesting character. I loved his fascination with Aspen, and I loved getting inside his head.
Aspen is much more interested in dragons than people. I loved learning about her backstory with the dragons and why she admired them so much. Aspen has friends, but no one really understands her and her love for the winged creatures like she wants...until Sid. It was so much fun trying to watch Sid break down the steel barriers that Aspen had constructed around herself to keep him at a distance. There were many times when I thought it was going to be impossible for him to win her over. But that fun is better left for you to discover when you read Obsidian.
I cannot wait for the second book in the series. This is going to be a great one, I can already tell. I love the lore behind the Dragons, and Sid and Aspen have completely stolen my heart. I have no idea how they are going to make it work, or even if they will be able to at all, but I am dying to find out. This story does end on one heck of a cliffhanger, and I have no clue how they are going to worm their way out of this one, but Kimberly Loth has certainly captured my attention. Obsidian is a must read series for me now.
Bottom line: if you like dragons or fantasy, or magical realism Obsidian is a book that should be on your radar. It has great characters, a great story line, awesome dragons, and a really sweet romance. Something for everyone. It is a quick read that you should not miss.
This review was originally posted on Book Briefs
**You can see this full review and more at Book Briefs: http://bookbriefs.net**
How Willa Got Her Groove Back is the second book in the young adult, Creative HeArts series. The Creative HeArts series in unique in the fact that each of the books is written by a different author. Tera Lynn Childs wrote the first book, Ten Things Sloane Hates about Tru, which is the first book in a Sloane and Tru trilogy. However, How Willa Got Her Groove Back is about completely different characters and it is by Emily McKay. The feature that ties all of the books together is that they are all high school contemporary romances, and they all center around couples in the arts in some way, shape or fashion. It is an interesting concept. I have not read the first book in the series, so I don't know if the books are going to rotate with the characters. For example, I know books 1-3 are each centered around a different couple, but I don't know if book 4 will continue this trend or if it will cycle back around and be book 2 out of 3 in the Sloane and True trilogy. Have I confused you yet?
Ok, in case you are totally confused about the structure of the overall series, let's talk about this book. How Willa Got Her Groove back is the story of Willa and Finn. It was a really cute story. When I finished reading it, I immediately wished that there was more to this book. (or that I had the second part of their story.) I felt like we left off at a really good part, and I want to know that happens next.
Willa is just a (sort of) ordinary girl. Or, as ordinary as you can be with a famous director for a father. But then her father gets engaged to a famous actress, and along with her comes her hot son. I bet you can see where this story is going. Except, it didn't...go there that is. There was a lot of hinting that it may be to come, but I both loved and was frustrated by the fact that there was only a lot of hinting. I loved it because this book was focused more on Willa and her reservations about the whole thing. And let me just say, I completely get it. Her life is going to be completely uprooted and changed, and she didn't get even the slightest heads up. But at the same time, man was she vocal and stubborn, and a bit of a brat about the whole thing. I love Willa, but I would have hoped that she would have been a bit more gracious after she was given time to settle down and adjust to the idea. Now for my frustration...I loved Finn. I found myself waiting for his chapters to come around because I was just so delighted in how protective he was of Willa.
Book two needs to get here ASAP and I for one and hoping for a whole lot of Willa and Finn. Or at least for Willa to open up a little and give him, and his mom a chance. Mia seems like a genuinely nice person, and Willa treated her pretty bad.
Bottom line: If you are looking for a contemporary romance book that is witty, well written and doesn't take any of the obvious moves, this is the book for you. It takes a well loved trope and goes the unexpected route, in my opinion. This first book is mainly focused on character building and growth, and the relationships (of all kinds) are slow burn and so enjoyable. I am a huge fan of How Willa Got her Groove Back. Bring me book two now, please!
This review was originally posted on Book Briefs
How Willa Got Her Groove Back is the second book in the young adult, Creative HeArts series. The Creative HeArts series in unique in the fact that each of the books is written by a different author. Tera Lynn Childs wrote the first book, Ten Things Sloane Hates about Tru, which is the first book in a Sloane and Tru trilogy. However, How Willa Got Her Groove Back is about completely different characters and it is by Emily McKay. The feature that ties all of the books together is that they are all high school contemporary romances, and they all center around couples in the arts in some way, shape or fashion. It is an interesting concept. I have not read the first book in the series, so I don't know if the books are going to rotate with the characters. For example, I know books 1-3 are each centered around a different couple, but I don't know if book 4 will continue this trend or if it will cycle back around and be book 2 out of 3 in the Sloane and True trilogy. Have I confused you yet?
Ok, in case you are totally confused about the structure of the overall series, let's talk about this book. How Willa Got Her Groove back is the story of Willa and Finn. It was a really cute story. When I finished reading it, I immediately wished that there was more to this book. (or that I had the second part of their story.) I felt like we left off at a really good part, and I want to know that happens next.
Willa is just a (sort of) ordinary girl. Or, as ordinary as you can be with a famous director for a father. But then her father gets engaged to a famous actress, and along with her comes her hot son. I bet you can see where this story is going. Except, it didn't...go there that is. There was a lot of hinting that it may be to come, but I both loved and was frustrated by the fact that there was only a lot of hinting. I loved it because this book was focused more on Willa and her reservations about the whole thing. And let me just say, I completely get it. Her life is going to be completely uprooted and changed, and she didn't get even the slightest heads up. But at the same time, man was she vocal and stubborn, and a bit of a brat about the whole thing. I love Willa, but I would have hoped that she would have been a bit more gracious after she was given time to settle down and adjust to the idea. Now for my frustration...I loved Finn. I found myself waiting for his chapters to come around because I was just so delighted in how protective he was of Willa.
Book two needs to get here ASAP and I for one and hoping for a whole lot of Willa and Finn. Or at least for Willa to open up a little and give him, and his mom a chance. Mia seems like a genuinely nice person, and Willa treated her pretty bad.
Bottom line: If you are looking for a contemporary romance book that is witty, well written and doesn't take any of the obvious moves, this is the book for you. It takes a well loved trope and goes the unexpected route, in my opinion. This first book is mainly focused on character building and growth, and the relationships (of all kinds) are slow burn and so enjoyable. I am a huge fan of How Willa Got her Groove Back. Bring me book two now, please!
This review was originally posted on Book Briefs
**You can see this full review and more at Book Briefs: http://bookbriefs.net**My Senior Year of Awesome is a standalone young adult contemporary romance by Jennifer DiGiovanni. My Senior Year of Awesome is a really cute read about senior year superlatives and how they brought a couple together. Sadie was voted most likely to marry, along with Adam. Only problem is that superlative is usually reserved for a lovey dovey couple at the school, and Sadie and Adam have never even gone on a date. In fact, most of the time they ignore or annoy each other. Right away, I knew it was going to be a cute story because I love the bickering turned to romance. (does that make me weird?)
Sadie grew on me as a character, but at the start of the story, I thought she was kind of a brat. I mean, Adam is nothing but the sweetest guy to her and she was pretty rude about the whole superlative thing. But it is clear that Sadie is a good person, and watching her hang out more with Adam was adorable. Mostly, because it was painfully obvious that he has a huge crush on Sadie. I wish the book was told from Adam's point of view as well, but it is told entirely from Sadie.
My favorite thing about My Senior Year of Awesome (apart from Adam) were the lists that Sadie and her best friend would complete. If you know me, you know I love a good to do list story, and in between almost all of the chapters were different lists created by Sadie. They were really really funny. Don't skip over them if you are reading the book, you will really enjoy them! I felt like some hidden one liner gems can be found in each of the lists.
Bottom line: If you like your romances on the cute side, My Senior Year of Awesome is a book that will have you smiling. Give Sadie a chance to redeem herself, and I think you will end up liking her. And you will love Adam. If you don't, then do not come and talk to me, because I am telling you now, I am a little angry with you for your opinion on that one. (just kidding, but Adam is AWESOME!) I can't wait to read more books by Jennifer DiGiovanni because she writes her romances just the way I like them- Sassy and cute with adorable characters.
P.S. Correction: This is not a standalone book. It looks like it is the first book in the School Dayz series. If I had to guess, I would say each book in the series will focus on a different couple, but that remains to be confirmed. This review was originally posted on Book Briefs
Sadie grew on me as a character, but at the start of the story, I thought she was kind of a brat. I mean, Adam is nothing but the sweetest guy to her and she was pretty rude about the whole superlative thing. But it is clear that Sadie is a good person, and watching her hang out more with Adam was adorable. Mostly, because it was painfully obvious that he has a huge crush on Sadie. I wish the book was told from Adam's point of view as well, but it is told entirely from Sadie.
My favorite thing about My Senior Year of Awesome (apart from Adam) were the lists that Sadie and her best friend would complete. If you know me, you know I love a good to do list story, and in between almost all of the chapters were different lists created by Sadie. They were really really funny. Don't skip over them if you are reading the book, you will really enjoy them! I felt like some hidden one liner gems can be found in each of the lists.
Bottom line: If you like your romances on the cute side, My Senior Year of Awesome is a book that will have you smiling. Give Sadie a chance to redeem herself, and I think you will end up liking her. And you will love Adam. If you don't, then do not come and talk to me, because I am telling you now, I am a little angry with you for your opinion on that one. (just kidding, but Adam is AWESOME!) I can't wait to read more books by Jennifer DiGiovanni because she writes her romances just the way I like them- Sassy and cute with adorable characters.
P.S. Correction: This is not a standalone book. It looks like it is the first book in the School Dayz series. If I had to guess, I would say each book in the series will focus on a different couple, but that remains to be confirmed. This review was originally posted on Book Briefs
**You can see this full review and more at Book Briefs: http://bookbriefs.net**In Real Life is a young adult contemporary romance by Jessica Love. It tells the story of teens Hannah and Nick who have been best friends for four years. Only hitch to that is they have never met. I think this is a book that is long overdue in todays technological climate. People everywhere have friends that they have only interacted with over the internet, or phone, or on social media. It is just the way the world is today. When I first started reading In Real Life, I thought this was going to be a catfish story. (and trust me, I love a good catfish story. P.S. is anyone else watching the new season?) But In Real Life turned out to be so much more than that. Hannah and Nick have talked on the phone and video chatted multiple times, so they knew who the other person was physically. In Real Life was a delightful story of whether or not they could actually work out as friends (or more than friends) in real life.
I loved watching Hannah and Nick. Nick likes Hannah so much, you could choke on all the adorableness. And Hannah was just so clueless about her feelings that I wanted to shake her so many times. I wanted to give her a good whap on the head every time she pushed Nick away. I just didn't get it. But they are teenagers, and they each had some growing up to do for sure. Watching them get over their faults and accept their faults was a favorite aspect of In real Life for me. It did seem very much like real life. I think Jessica Love did a great job depicting teenagers today.
Hannah and Nick were a great match. They cracked me up together. I loved how they would go along with whatever the other one was saying. You could tell they were really comfortable with each other. The one thing that I did not get at all, was the way multiple characters described Nick as kind of socially Awkward. I never once saw him this way. I thought he was a pretty smooth talker, and an overall likable guy. I didn't feel like he would have any trouble fitting in. So that description didn't gel with the way Nick was portrayed throughout the story. But I loved him even though I didn't think he was awkward. What he was, was very sweet.
Bottom line: If you like a good long distance love story mixed in with a hint of teenage "the Hangover", featuring a long nights romp on the Las Vegas strip, this will be a book that you will enjoy. If you are looking for a good depiction of true to life teens with a healthy dose of social media age, you should grab a copy of In Real Life today.
This review was originally posted on Book Briefs
I loved watching Hannah and Nick. Nick likes Hannah so much, you could choke on all the adorableness. And Hannah was just so clueless about her feelings that I wanted to shake her so many times. I wanted to give her a good whap on the head every time she pushed Nick away. I just didn't get it. But they are teenagers, and they each had some growing up to do for sure. Watching them get over their faults and accept their faults was a favorite aspect of In real Life for me. It did seem very much like real life. I think Jessica Love did a great job depicting teenagers today.
Hannah and Nick were a great match. They cracked me up together. I loved how they would go along with whatever the other one was saying. You could tell they were really comfortable with each other. The one thing that I did not get at all, was the way multiple characters described Nick as kind of socially Awkward. I never once saw him this way. I thought he was a pretty smooth talker, and an overall likable guy. I didn't feel like he would have any trouble fitting in. So that description didn't gel with the way Nick was portrayed throughout the story. But I loved him even though I didn't think he was awkward. What he was, was very sweet.
Bottom line: If you like a good long distance love story mixed in with a hint of teenage "the Hangover", featuring a long nights romp on the Las Vegas strip, this will be a book that you will enjoy. If you are looking for a good depiction of true to life teens with a healthy dose of social media age, you should grab a copy of In Real Life today.
This review was originally posted on Book Briefs