Cover Reveal: Tryst by Arie Lane

Today, I have great pleasure in bringing you the cover reveal of Tryst by Arie Lane. Without further ado, here it is!

Release Date: January 6th

Goodreads

SYNOPSIS

Bentley Celeste has everything to lose, literally. On a night she should have been celebrating, her world came crashing down. Left with no other choice, she ran for her life and has been hiding ever since.

The day Tristan turned into a teenager his whole life changed. Faced with the reality that his father was more of a child than he was, Tristan chose to forego the rest of his childhood and become an adult.

Both have secrets that could destroy the fragile foundation that Tristan fights hard to build. But what happens when the very secrets you are hiding are the very ties that will either bind or break you? Can Bentley stop running long enough to let someone in? Can Tristan start believing that not everyone he loves is destined to abandon him? 

***WARNING*** This book is intended for 18+ due to strong language, violent scenarios, and sexual content. 

Pre - order links 

Amazon.com - http://amzn.com/B00PJK646A

Amazon.co.uk - http://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B00PJK646A

Book Trailer:

About this Author

Arie Lane is an avid reader and stay at home mom to two beautiful little boys. When not writing or chasing them around she is usually catching up with other Indie authors and constantly keeping up with new blogs.
She loves to connect with people and is proud that she finally had the courage to put some of her crazy thoughts into written words. From the time she started reading her nose was always stuck in a book and she's couldn't be happier that now she's encouraging others to get their noses stuck also. Even if her readers are of the +18 variety.

Connect with the Arie:

Goodreads - https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/9850637.Arie_Lane

Amazon author Page - http://www.amazon.com/-/e/B00PMNMHRO

Facbebook page - https://www.facebook.com/pages/Arie-Lane/1559450517600148?fref=ts

Book Review of Love Edy by Shewanda Pugh

Book Title: Love Edy (Book One)

Genre: YA Contemporary Romance
Pages: 310

Author: Shewanda Pugh

Date Published: 24 June 2014

Synopsis:

When Edy Phelps falls hard for her best friend, she knows nothing can come from it. Forget actual chemistry, or the fact that she cherishes his mother more than her own; centuries of tradition say that Hassan will grow up, marry the girl his parents pick, and forget his best friend: the dancer with the bursting smile. Except he can't. In a world erupting with possibilities for the boy with a body of steel and dreams of the NFL, everything seems promised while nothing at all is; when he's denied the girl he wants most.

Two hearts. Two families devoted through generations of friendship. Could Edy and Hassan really risk all that? And yet ... how could they not?

Review:

Love Edy by Shewanda Pugh
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This is an interesting young adult coming of age story. I really enjoyed it.

Edy (Edith) Phelps is an interesting character. She is a youngster of 14 years old, turning 15 when we first meet her. She is a typical teen: a little selfish, judgmental of her peers and extremely sheltered. I liked her, but wanted to shake her at times, especially when she did something or said something that she didn't mean. It was a bit painful watching this character grow up at times, because she had a habit of whining. However, what teen doesn't whine?

Hassan Pradhan is another interesting character. I liked him a lot. He is very protective of Edy, since they had been friends since they were babies. He has a great sense on humour and is a fantastic guy. I loved watching him grapple with his feelings for Edy, whilst trying to keep his friends and other boys from pursuing her.

This is an intriguing coming of age tale. I was completely hooked! The story is told through three character's points of view: Edy, Hassan and Wyatt. I loved seeing the world through their eyes. In a way, this story reminded me of my own teenage years. And, although my experiences were completely different, I can remember watching my peers as they experimented with drink and sex, whilst dealing with puberty and self image. It was interesting watching how Edy, Hassan, Wyatt and the other characters coped with the emotions and everyday issues of being a teen.
I also loved meeting Mason and Matt Dyson. They are twins and best friends with Edy and Hassan, along with their younger brother Lawrence. These three boys are just as protective of Edy, who they see as their sister, even though they are not related. All of these characters, apart from Wyatt come from privileged backgrounds, so they have a bit of a superiority complex at times. Wyatt has his own issues, but has a dark side that surprised me when it was revealed.

This story is full of teenage angst, fragile egos and sweet romance. I loved watching the romance bloom between Edy and Hassan, but wondered if they were destined to be together, or if fate and/or tradition had other ideas. The story ends on an action packed cliffhanger, which left me wanting to find out what happens next.

Shewanda Pugh has written an intriguing multi-racial coming of age tale. I love her writing style, which is not particularly fast paced, but extremely entertaining. The flow of the story was wonderful too. I would definitely consider reading more of her books in the future.

Due to the mention of underage drinking (shown) and sex (implied & not shown), I do not recommend this book to readers under the age of 15. However, I recommend this book if you love YA contemporary romance. - Lynn Worton

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Forever Kansas companion novel to the best selling Ruby Blue Series by Julie Cassar

Forever Kansas

So this series was one of the first in this intended age group that I came across for review. I honestly expected little so after the first book I was amazed at my own level of enjoyment and in a way I convinced myself that my impression was based a bit more on the fact that the book surpassed my expectation rather than the true validity of the book.

So....not long after, I am ALWAYS behind on reviews the second book became available and by now, surely, I must be over the fact that book surprised me so much right? Right? I was and still I could not hit that button for an arc fast enough. HMMMM see where I am heading. By book three I knew. It was not me, it was the author, this world, these characters and these plots that kept me running back as fast as my reading glasses could bounce to the next and the next and the next book.

I must admit. I get bored VERY fast. A series in my opinion must not exceed three books ..... and yes I still feel like that with the exception of The Dark Tower Series by Stephen King, Odd Thomas by Dean R Koontz and the Frankenstein series by the same author of Odd. Oh and then the Ruby Blue series by Julie Cassar.

So a bit back the companion novel became available for review. I did not read the blurb, nor did I knew it was a companion to the series, I hit that one click button on Amazon and soon I owned this book. Ok, so I own something like 12k, I will get to this sooner than most but not immediately, right? Wrong. I finished the other 8 books I was reading spending a bit more time on the first book of a new YA series I have recently discovered and adore and then....then I turned the page on my Kindle looking for the perfect next read. And there was Forever Kansas. So I figured, oh you know what, open it. You can go choose 5 others and keep this one for the last in order to read of this grouping....right. That did not work. I kept reading, turning the page seeing Ruby through the eyes of Brennan and again I found myself totally in love with this world. In love with the characters, in love with reading. Through the years I have grown to decide on what makes a 5* read. At one stage it was the fact that I could not put the book down. Then it became that if I could not tear myself away and walked between rooms in my house reading..... I have a few criteria these days but this book reminded me of the most important of all. I love to read, and I love to read a good book and If I find myself loving to read a particular book like going home...then that is a five star read.

Needless to say, this is a 5* all the way,

Get your copy here

More about the author via Goodreads

Book Review of Shattered Skies: Beginning's End by Heather Linn

Book Title: Shattered Skies: Beginnings End

Genre: Dystopian Science Fiction/Horror
Pages: 286

Author: Heather Linn

Date Originally Published: 20 March 2010
Date Re-Released: 19 December 2012

Synopsis:

This is the first book of five in the Shattered Skies series. The current version has been re-edited in response to reader’s comments.

Torn between the day and the night, Catalina treads a dangerous, deadly trail among the monsters; sex is her weapon. But what happens when her heart takes over and she falls in love with the head monster, the leader of a new breed of Vampire that is chillingly capable of killing her and the humans she loves?

Courageous Catalina never had the chance to live in the normal world we take for granted. Instead she was born into a world ruled by the alien Vampires that have taken over the planet. Half the human race is dead, the survivors have been raped and pillaged, and the alien Vampire invaders have bred a nearly indestructible new race, the Dominus, a horrific genetic mix of human and vampire.
Catalina and her small family of rogue humans have been led by a brooding Doctor since their infancy. So far, they have managed to live secretly among the new deadly breed of monster, killing when they can.
Then Catalina, the black sheep of the family, rejects the subservient female role assigned her, and demands to be a warrior on the front lines with the men, bedding one Dominus after the next, in a world where sex kills. Hell bent on destroying as many of the Dominus as she can, Catalina is drawn to the bed of the King Dominus, Akia. Her emotions flare in his presence and she feels a strange, tumultuous, magnetic pull towards him and him to her, but this star-crossed attraction can only lead to death. But for whom?

Review:

Beginnings End by Heather Linn
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author in return for an honest review. I received this book before it was re-edited, so I can only give my opinion on what I read.

This is the first book in the Shattered Skies series. It is a very intriguing tale and I enjoyed it.

Catalina is a character I had mixed feelings for. I liked her determination and independence, but hated her attitude at times. She comes across as very arrogant and superior, even though she is a human living in a world conquered by vampires, who are actually aliens from another planet.

I started to read the story and I was quickly pulled in. I love the concept of vampires being aliens; that actually makes sense! However, it was the idea of sex as a weapon which somewhat ruined the story for me. Don't get me wrong, I know sex has been used as a weapon since Adam begat Eve, but the way this story was written had me scratching my head at times, as there seemed to be contradictory elements within the story.

The story itself was extremely exciting and full of danger. I loved the tension created within the tale, and the scene between Catalina and King Akia just after the ballroom one was extremely intense. But sad to say that the characters felt a bit one dimensional with very little depth, and were not as "alive" as they could have been. In actuality, I was on the side of the Dominus vampires and feeling sorry for them, although I should have been rooting for the humans. I know that it's weird, but I really took a liking to Akia, even though he is really not in the story a lot of the time. However, things are not all that they seem and there are several twists and turns that surprised me. Dr. Walker, the doctor who rescued the human babies, including Catalina, during the invasion, has his own secrets. I really didn't like him very much; I got a really funny vibe about him. My suspicions were realised when his secrets were revealed. However, it wasn't his secret as much as his parenting that threw up a red flag in my mind. It smacked too much of indoctrination and brainwashing. His attitude towards female and male roles within the "family" dynamic was extremely upsetting to my modern sensibilities. I kept wondering if he had been reading an old Dr. Spock book, as well as others from the 1930's to 1960's about a woman's place in the home and in society. It was a bit too "June Cleaver" or "Stepford Wives" for my taste. No wonder Catalina rebelled!

The ending is a bit ambiguous, but is that better than a cliffhanger? I have said this many times, but I have a love/hate relationship with cliffhangers. However, an ambiguous ending is just as irritating as a cliffhanger in my opinion, as it leaves the reader wondering where the story is going to lead next. I am not sure if I will be continuing with this series, but I won't rule it out either.

Heather Linn has written an interesting novel with an intriguing premise. I loved her fast paced writing style and the flow was okay. However, I felt the character development needed a bit more work.

I recommend this book if you love science fiction, dark fantasy, paranormal horror or dystopian genres. - Lynn Worton

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What if? By Jeffrey M Daniels

What if a children's book is intended for grown ups? Well then, then What if? is the book we are discussing.

Jeremy Shuttle is one of the most likable characters I have come across in ages.  This boy is still a boy.  Not a vamped up hyper super man in a boy's body.  The same goes for his best friend and almost girlfriend who is also still only a young girl.  Certain parts of this book is written so exceptionally well that I was blown away by the true human insight that has been so vividly retold to us the readers.

I must say if I could recommend a book to a younger YA this would be it.  If I could recommend it to older YA for the moral of the story, I would.  If I could recommend it to others it would be all adults since the subject matter is truly deep and ingenious and depending on your age and life experience I believe this book has something to offer every body.

So hey, stop reading this review and get your copy today.  Trust me, you will thank me.  

The author although I have reason to believe this is not a recent photograph...dont ask.

Info via #Goodreads

Jeffrey M. Daniels

Goodreads Author

url

https://www.goodreads.com/JeffreyMDaniels

born

in Miami, The United States 

May 27, 1960

gender

male

website

http://www.jeffreymdaniels.com

genre

Fantasy, Science Fiction, Young Adult

member since

May 2013

About this author

edit data

Jeffrey's parents moved down to Florida from New York just in time to make him a native Floridian...one of the few remaining in the state from that halcyon era of the 60's.

Born under the sign of Gemini, he obtained degrees in appropriately opposite fields of Accounting and Advertising, though he claims not to have inspired the unfortunate term "creative accountant".

His career in writing, beginning with tear-inducing messages on family holiday cards, continued as editor of his college dorm newsletter, through various advertising positions. Despite the self-infliction of many years of Finance and Accounting work, he managed to squeeze out a regular newsletter for his Finance group whose sole purpose was to make its readers laugh. Needless to say, it had nothing to do with Accounting.

After a return to advertising and creative, Jeffrey finally finished his often-talked about young adult fantasy adventure novel, What If?, the first book in a trilogy about a young boy, Jeremy Shuttle, who is given a sketchbook that makes everything he draws in it become real.

Jeffrey currently lives comfortably in South Florida, driving with his windows down and wondering why so many people complain about the humidity.

Get your copy here...... What If?  

Book Review of Amongst the Ruins (The Chronicles of 2020 Book 1) by Saewood Tice

Book Title: Amongst The Ruins (The Chronicles of 2020 Book 1)

Genre: Post-Apocalyptic/Dystopian Science Fiction
Pages: 376

Author: Saewood Tice

Date Published: 1 September 2013

Synopsis:

In the year 2220, only about 15% of Earth's population have survived and thrived after the Nuclear Disaster of 2020.

With the collapse of modern society, the population has regressed into eight clans. Amongst these clans, an unusual girl grows from child to adult.
Raised on the run and in hiding, Shilo wants to be free of the expectations of women.
But in a ruined world where anyone could be an enemy, only the radiation-twisted mutants are clearly identifiable. A fertile female is a precious treasure, and any lapse in caution can mean a loss of the freedom she longs for.

Training as hard as a soldier would, in order to free herself from social constraints, she finds herself faced with an offer from a new clan--an offer that provides her with what she desires. But her recently found independence brings discovery, and discovery brings two very different men from her past—and each of them is determined to claim her.

One is obsessed with owning her, the other desires her as the only person who can make him love again.

Review:

Amongst the Ruins by Saewod Tice
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author in return for an honest review.

This is the first book in a post-apocalyptic dystopian series. I really enjoyed it!

Shiloh is a young girl of 12 when we first meet her. The story follows her life until she reaches the age of 14, when her life changes forever. By the time she is 17 things get even more interesting. Her life is not an easy one, but I found her to be very resourceful and brave, as well as incredibly stubborn. I liked her very much, but on the odd occasion, I wanted to shake her (or slap her) for being such a hardheaded, stubborn-as-a-mule woman, who couldn't see what was in front of her eyes until it was too late! Her "I am woman, hear me roar" attitude did grate on me at times. I admired her independent streak, but as the saying goes "pride goes before a fall"; a little humility from her wouldn't have come amiss.

This is a very interesting story. I started to read the book and was quickly pulled in. I didn't put the book down until I had finished it, and then sat for a bit, trying to process all that had happened.

This story is set in 2220 and is full of twists and turns. A apocalyptic event in the past has decimated the human population, and the nuclear fall out has created mutations and infertility. The remaining humans have banded together into eight clans, each with their own rules. The girls in the clan that Shiloh and her family are camping with are destined to become wives or concubines and mothers by age 13. Life is not easy by any means, but when Shiloh and her mother, Kahrn, her brother, Adley and her sister, Mazy are taken in by General Vahn from another clan, things begin to look up.

The story is a real roller coaster ride from beginning to end. This is a unique take on a dystopian society. There are some really fantastic characters. I loved Adley. He is very protective of his family and has a wonderful personality. But, I think my heart belongs to Kain, the general's son. He is very intense and brooding, but he also has a huge heart. He can be a bit domineering, but I think Shiloh needs someone like Kain to temper her impetuousness. I loved watching the relationship between them grow. They are well suited. I also liked Jin, the martial arts teacher at the camp of the general's. He is wise and extremely kind. However, there is one character whom I didn't like. His name is Elrik. He is not the most likable person; he is the possessive and jealous type. He actually made my skin crawl. There are some other interesting characters, which brought the story to life. The descriptions of the places and people were quite vivid, and I could "see" the scenes very clearly in my mind's eye. The story crescendos with a huge battle, and I found myself in tears. I will not say why, you will just have to read the book for yourself to find out. However, I will say that this story ends on a cliffhanger. I have a love/hate relationship with cliffhangers, but I am now looking forward to reading the next book in the series.

Saewood Tice has written a compelling, totally absorbing and thrilling post-apocalyptic dystopian novel. I loved her fast paced writing style. I did feel that some scenes were not as fluid as they could have been, but overall the flow was wonderful.

Due to violence, and some scenes of a sensual nature which are a little on the explicit side, I do not recommend this book to younger readers under 17, or those of a sensitive nature. However, I do recommend this book if you love post-apocalyptic or dystopian genres. - Lynn Worton

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Book Review of When Aliens Weep: An Alien Apocalyptic Saga (Species Intervention #6609 Book 7) by J.K. Accinni

Book Title: When Aliens Weep: An Alien Apocalyptic Saga (Species Intervention #6609 Book 7)

Genre: Post-Apocalyptic Science Fiction
Pages: 181

Author: J.K. Accinni

Date Published: 1 November 2014

Synopsis:

During the last tense moments before the demise of Earth, we learn what happened to the survivors that didn’t make it to Oolaha. Or did they?

As our heroic survivors learn to navigate Baby and Echo’s home planet they must cope with the heartwrenching loss of family and loved ones as they are immersed in the adoring affection of thousands of minions.

One Elder will be responsible for a host of tragic deaths due to the human folly of jealousy and revenge. Will this lead to the final death knell of the species called Homo sapiens? Or will the womb forgive once again?

Review:

When Aliens Weep: An Alien Apocalyptic Saga by JK Accinni
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Review 6******

This is the seventh and final book in The Species Intervention Series. I loved it!

First of all, I would like to say that I LOVE the cover. The butterfly is a beautiful insect, and in some cultures they mean change or hope for a new beginning. I think it is a wonderful choice for this book.

Wow, where do I start?! I'm still reeling! I usually do a character breakdown, but this book is told from several different points of view, so it would take me forever to do so in this instance. Therefore, I'm just going to dive right into my review.

When Aliens Weep is a book that I have been wanting to read ever since the author said she would be writing it; she wanted to answer her readers' questions about what happened to the characters after the intervention of Earth by the Womb.

I started to read and did not stop until I had finished it. This story follows those few survivors of the apocalyptic species intervention of Earth by the Womb, and their experiences on Oolaha, the home planet of the minons' Baby and Echo. I liked meeting some new characters too, as they brought a freshness to the tale. Netty, Wil, Abby, Jose, Chloe, Cobby, Kane, Ginger Mae, Peter, Daisy, Kenya, Johno, Hud, Dezi, Bonnie, Baby and Echo are joined by Minion IV (re-named Ivey by Bonnie) and Brother Forbation. These two have completely different characters. Ivey is very much like Baby and Echo in that she is a minion, but she is also a navigator; she visits new planets and charts them for the Womb. I really liked her. Brother Forbation is a minion elder, and is like the chief or boss of the minions. He is a character that I didn't take a shine to at first, because he is the quintessential government official. However, he is not really that bad; he's just concerned about his minions, and humans are not exactly on the top of his friends list; I don't blame him.

The story is not as dark and disturbing as the previous books in the series, but the way the author describes certain scenes made me have more than a few OMG moments. This book is full of twists, turns and shocking revelations that kept me completely hooked! I was swept into a wild and emotional rollercoaster ride. I found myself in tears more than once, so a tissue may be required. I am feeling rather sad to say goodbye to the characters in this series, as they have become friends and family. However, I do wish them well and hope that their children, and their children's children, look after their world better than we have with this one. Or the Womb will make another species intervention!

J.K. Accinni is a fantastic writer, who has become one of my favourite authors. She is not afraid to kill off her characters, or write about dark subjects. She is very passionate about the world we live on, and what we (as humans) are doing to it and ourselves, and her stories reflect that. I love her fast paced writing style and the flow of the story was wonderful. I am looking forward to reading more of her work in the future.

Due to some scenes of violence or mild horror, I do not recommend this book (or series) to younger readers or those of a sensitive nature. However, I HIGHLY recommend this book (and series) if you love science fiction or dystopian genres. - Lynn Worton

View all my reviews

               

Book Review of Forever Kansas (The Ruby Blue Series Book 5) by Julie Cassar

Book Title: Forever Kansas (The Ruby Blue Series Book 5)

Genre: YA/Paranormal Romance/Fantasy
Pages: 343

Author: Julie Cassar

Date Published: 14 November 2014

Synopsis:

“She will be the death of me one day. I swear, she will.”

In this companion novel to the best selling Ruby Blue Series, Brennan Kaelin, Fairy Prince and Heir to the throne of the Earthen Royal Court in Fey, reveals his inner-most desires and struggles. In a world where the four Royal Courts and three Realms collide, an even deeper connection is unearthed as more secrets of Fey are exposed. Relive Ruby’s adventures through Brennan’s eyes as he searches to discover the mysteries shrouding the prophesy of the One with The Elements.

*Author’s note: This novel is meant to be read after “Forever Blue” (Book 4 of the Ruby Blue Series). It discloses additional information to Ruby and Brennan’s story, however, some key plot points of the original story are intentionally left out.

Review:

Forever Kansas by Julie Cassar
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Review 6******

This is the fifth and final book in the Ruby Blue Series. I absolutely LOVED it!

Brennan Kaelin is a fantastic character. I wasn't sure if I liked him when I met him in Ruby Blue, because he came across as a bit arrogant at times. However, as this series has progressed, I have grown to love him.

I have been eagerly awaiting this book's release, ever since the author first said she was going to write it.This is a most exciting and un-put-down-able read! I was completely hooked from the first page!

*Minor spoiler* This story is told through the view point of Brennan from after Sirrush had attacked Ruby in Ruby Blue and starts during the water challenge of the Water Court in Deja Blue, and continues on from there.

I was absolutely fascinated by how Brennan saw Ruby, and what his thoughts and feelings were during key events in the series. There are some new scenes incorporated into the main storyline, where Ruby was absent, and these gave me a deeper insight into Brennan's character and personality. He takes his responsibilities as the future King of the fairies quite seriously, but he also has a great sense of humour. And, speaking of humour, I loved seeing Jeremy again! He is a fantastic character, with a very unique vocabulary of sayings. I have so many favourite ones, but "That girl is a skank-ho hot mess in a gi-gah-munga can of nasty crack worms!" really made me giggle when he was referencing Katrina (AKA Ka-Trampy). In fact, most of his comments made me giggle; his comedic timing is fantastic! The story has all the twists and turns of the previous books, but there are a few more surprises and secrets revealed. I even shed a few tears during some scenes, but will not say which ones, because I don't really like putting spoilers in reviews. However, I will say that the ending was a sweet surprise and leave it at that.

Julie Cassar is one of my favourite authors, and I will read any of her books in the future. Her characters are very lifelike and virtually leap off the page! I also love her fast paced writing style, which seems to flow effortlessly from scene to scene. I am in awe of her talent.

I HIGHLY recommend this book (and series) as a MUST READ if you love YA paranormal romances or fantasy genres. - Lynn Worton

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Audio/Book Review of Accepting the Moon: Prequel (Moonrising Book 1) by K.S. Haigwood

Book Title: Accepting the Moon: Prequel (Moonrising Book 1)

Genre: YA/Paranormal Romance
Pages: 81
Audio Running Time: 1 Hour 39 Minutes

Author: K.S. Haigwood

Date Published: 1 September 2014 (Kindle); 16 October 2014 (Audible)

Synopsis:

There is a new Alpha Wolf in town, and she is about to change everything.
Mena had all she wanted in life: a nice house, money, a successful husband who treated her like a queen.
That was, until she found out her marriage was all a lie, and things she never thought could exist, did.
Vampires are real.
Werewolves are real.
And Mena is not human anymore.

Review:

Accepting the Moon (Prequel) A 'Moonrising' Story by K.S. Haigwood
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This is a fantastic start to a new series! I loved it!

I downloaded this book as an audio book, so that I could listen to it while doing household chores. This audio book was narrated by Pyper Down. I loved her narration; her vocal interpretations of the characters made them come alive. She did a fantastic job! Her voice was melodic and smooth, and I found myself drawn into the story more easily. I would definitely listen to more books narrated by her.

Mena is a wonderful character. I really liked her. She is quite courageous and determined. But one moment of danger will change her life forever. Can she overcome the obstacles thrown in her path by fate?

This is a very interesting prequel novella to a new series. In this book, we are introduced to Mena, Jackson and Phoenix. Each character has a chance to give their own point of view. I really enjoyed their interactions. Jackson seems to be quite impulsive and hotheaded at times. Phoenix, on the other hand, is extremely intense and powerful; I suppose it helps that he's the leader of the vampire clan.

The story is a really fast paced read! I was quickly swept into the tale. It is full of twists and turns, with lots of action and danger. I was a little disappointed that it was so short, though, lasting only 1 hour and 39 minutes. I wanted it to keep going! I am now looking forward to reading/listening to the main story arc in the first full novel of the series.

K.S. Haigwood has written another wonderful paranormal romance series. I love her fast paced writing style, and the flow of the story was wonderful. I am fast becoming a fan of hers.

Due to a few scenes of violence, I do not recommend this book to younger readers. However, I recommend this story if you love older YA or erotic paranormal romance genres. - Lynn Worton

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Cover Reveal & Giveaway: Dismantling Evan by Venessa Kimball

Happy Cover Reveal Day!!!!!

I have been eagerly waiting to share Dismantling Evan's cover and blurb with you for weeks now! Today is the day and I have a few giveaways to celebrate with you!
In this post, I am sharing not only the cover and blurb for Dismantling Evan, but the musical playlist I have spend the last five months building, listening to, being inspired by while I have written a story that has taken me through so many emotions, so much research, and so much heartache, anger,  and joy  (sometimes simultaneously).




The thing about Dismantling Evan is that it is not a typical teen contemporary novel. This is not a genre driven piece of fiction.  It is most definitely a literary driven piece of fiction because of the social issues addressed in the novel and how they reflect on our society, which is far from what I have written in the past. (For those of you who have read my paranormal sci-fi series will agree when you read D.E.)

Okay, okay! I have made you wait long enough....here is Dismantling Evan's breath-taking cover (SK Whiteside- you are amazing!) and the much awaited back cover blurb.

Are you intrigued? 

Anyone that is a teenager, has a teenager, or was a teenager long ago will find themselves in the the pages of D.E. at some point and that is why I fell in love with Evan's snapshot of a not-so-average teen living with baggage in a very typical and sometimes intolerant society. 

January 13th can't come fast enough for me! squeeeeee! 

For those of you that LOVE book trailers for novels, I have one for Dismantling Evan to share. 

Still intrigued (Oh, and curious about THE GIVEAWAY in the title of this post? ;) 

ME TOO!
CLICK THE LINK BELOW FOR YOUR CHANCE TO WIN
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Book Review of Dragon Heart (A Crimson Paranormal Romance) by Susan Arden

Book Title: Dragon Heart (A Crimson Paranormal Romance)

Genre: Paranormal Romance
Pages: 277

Author: Susan Arden

Date Published: 10 November 2014

Synopsis:

Leopardess Shay Barclay has a choice: go along with her family's political plan to marry her to a ruthless shifter older than her grandfather or categorically claim her life and sensual nature as hers to rule.

She wastes no time in choosing freedom, but in her haste to establish her own boundaries, she just may have trusted her heart to the wrong man--a dragon shifter who's too dangerous to resist...

Former Navy SEAL Drake O'Connor personally guaranteed he'd protect his buddy's daughter to the death. But when his explosive chemistry with Shay finally boils over and they end up in bed, her family's political enemies are the least of their problems.
Because although Shay doesn't know it, she's crossed a line with Drake that will alter their future for an eternity...

Sensuality Level: Sensual

Dragon Heart is the first book in the RMS series.

Review:

Dragon Heart by Susan Arden
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author in return for an honest review.

This is the first book in a new series by this author. I really enjoyed it!

Shay Barclay is a character that I really didn't take to at first, because she came across as a spoilt brat rather than a desperate leopardess. However, as the story unfolded, I softened towards her, because she lost her attitude and became a bit more humble.

Drake O'Connor is a character full of charisma and machismo, with a huge ego to boot! In fact, a typical alpha character. He is the "blacksheep" of his dragon family, as he refuses to tow the family line. I really liked this character. He is uber sexy and smart.

I am a HUGE fan of paranormal romances and have read hundreds of them over the years, so when I was given the opportunity to read this one, I snapped it up with glee! The story is a typical paranormal romance, but there are a few surprises in store for the readers.
I loved the heat between Shay and Drake, but felt it was a bit one-sided in favour of Drake in the beginning, because a dragon mates for life and Shay wasn't interested in "forever". However, as the story unfolded the imbalance between the two evened out. I really enjoyed meeting Noah, Grant and Evan, Drake's team mates, who happen to be phoenixes. I also enjoyed meeting the Jinni who looks after the O'Connor dragon horde. He is quite a character!

This story is an erotic paranormal romance, so there are several scenes of a sexual nature that are extremely explicit. The heat level is turned on " high" and fairly scorches the pages! I felt that the sub-plot became a little lost due to the many bedroom scenes. I can understand that dragons and leopardesses have high sex drives, but I would have liked a bit more danger or threat from the villains in the story, or a more exciting challenge for Drake to attempt for his bonding ceremony. Nevertheless, the story was entertaining and ended satisfactorily.

Susan Arden has written a fantastic erotic paranormal romance. I loved her fast paced writing style and the flow was wonderful. This is the second book I have read by this author. The first one was a contemporary romance, which I loved, but paranormal romances have always been my favourite genre. I will definitely read more of this author's books in the future.

Due to the hot sensual bedroom scenes, I do not recommend this book to younger teenage readers. However, I recommend this book if you love spicy, HOT paranormal romance novels. - Lynn Worton

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Book Review of Witch's Curse (Book 2, The Witch Stone Prophecy) by Debra L. Martin and David W. Small

Book Title: Witch's Curse (Book 2, The Witch Stone Prophecy)

Genre: Urban/Dark Fantasy
Pages: 466

Author: Debra L. Martin & David W. Small

Date Published: 16 August 2014

Synopsis:

When elite assassin, Jeda DeLongo, fled the Assassin's Guild years earlier, he knew there would be a price to be paid. No one ever left the Guild, but he never imagined his beloved wife and unborn son would pay the price for his betrayal. Now Keisha's life hangs in the balance and the most powerful healers in the Kingdom cannot lift her unnatural coma the assassins put her in. There is only one cure, find the legendary Witch Stone.

Jeda leads an impossible quest to recover the Witch Stone--a stone that has been lost for a hundred years. Crucial to the success of the quest are his twin daughters, the famous children of prophecy, but are they unwitting pawns in the witch's power struggles? Forces of White and Black Witches are gathering. Can Jeda find the Witch Stone and heal his wife or will he be instrumental in starting another witch war, the likes of which the kingdom has never seen before?

The Guild of Assassins Creed: No one ever leaves the brotherhood.

Review:

Witch's Curse: Book 2, the Witch Stone Prophecy by Debra L. Martin
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author in return for an honest review.

This is the second book in The Witch Stone Prophecy series. I loved it!

Jeda is an assassin, trained in the art of stealth and death from being a young boy. He is extremely efficient and dangerous. No longer part of the Assassin Guild, he and his family set out on a quest to locate the Witch Stone, a magical volcanic rock that he hopes will help his wife and unborn son. I really liked Jeda when I first met him because, although he is or was an assassin, he has a conscience.

I loved the first book, so when I was approached about reading the second one, I jumped at the chance. I am glad that I did, because - dare I say it - it was even better than the first! I was hooked from the first page and didn't put it down until I finished reading! The story continues from the end of the first book. It was wonderful to meet some of the characters again, but there are also some new ones introduced. Kala and Kara are proficient killers in their own right, but Kara is still traumatized by her kidnapping and torture by Mave, though trying hard not to show it. Elizabeth openly runs the White Witch Coven, but secretly runs the Black Council. She is a very power-hungry woman, with her own plans for the elusive Witch Stone. However, it was the introduction of Raz, an undercover assassin, and Ranker, an irascible tracker/hunter, that gave this story an interesting twist. These two characters are completely different, but somehow fit in with the rest of the misfit group fantastically well. I loved Raz's dedication to her job, but was surprised that her opinion of Jeda remained unchanged throughout the book. Ranker, on the other hand, I fell in love with. He is a big old flirt, with a huge heart; he and Gelda suited each other perfectly!
The story has several twists and turns; some of which surprised me and others I never saw coming! There is mystery, intrigue and conspiracy, as well as action, adventure and magic. The fight scenes are described with amazing detail and are definitely intense! I loved the cave fight scene near the end, because I felt like I was actually there, watching! The ending sent a chill climbing my spine, and made me wonder what is in store for Jeda, Kala and Kara in their future. I am looking forward to reading the next book in the series to find out.

The authors', Debra L. Martin and David W. Small, have written a fantastic fantasy novel full of danger and adventure. I loved the fast pace of the story, which was not rushed. It also flowed beautifully from beginning to end. I am now a huge fan of their work.

Due to some violence, I do not recommend this book to younger readers. However, I highly recommend this book if you love action, adventure, thriller or fantasy/dark fantasy genres. - Lynn Worton

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Book Review of Unbreakable by Kami Garcia

Book Title: Unbreakable (The Legion #1)

Genre: YA/Paranormal Romance/Urban Fantasy
Pages: 320

Author: Kami Garcia

Date Published: 10 October 2013

Synopsis:

Kennedy Waters didn't believe in ghosts, until one tried to kill her.

When Kennedy finds her mother dead, her world begins to unravel. She doesn't know that evil forces in a much darker world are the ones pulling the strings. Not until identical twins Jared and Lukas Lockhart break into her house and destroy a dangerous spirit sent to kill her. The brothers reveal that her mother was part of an ancient secret society responsible for protecting the world from a vengeful demon - a society whose five members were all murdered on the same night.

Now Kennedy has to take her mother's place in the Legion if she wants to uncover the truth and stay alive. Along with new Legion members Priest and Alara, the teens race to find the only weapon that might be able to destroy the demon - battling the deadly spirits he controls every step of the way.

Suspense, romance, and the paranormal meet in this chilling urban fantasy, the first book in a new series from Kami Garcia, bestselling co-author of the Beautiful Creatures novels.

Review:

Unbreakable by Kami Garcia
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publishers through Netgally in return for an honest review.

This is the first book in a new YA Paranormal series by Kami Garcia. I loved it!

Kennedy Waters is an interesting character. I really liked her. She is an ordinary teen, with ordinary problems, but she has a fantastic eye for detail and is an excellent artist. However, her life is about to take a dangerous twist when her mother is murdered, and Kennedy finds out that there really are things that go "bump" in the night.

I really enjoyed the Beautiful Creatures novels this author co-wrote, so when I found out that she was writing a series on her own I was excited.

I started to read this book and I was quickly hooked! I loved the first scene, because it was extremely unnerving and creepy. I don't visit cemeteries at night anyway, but reading that scene has completely put me off even trying; it sent shivers up my back!
I liked meeting the other characters in this book. Jared and Lukas Lockhart may be seventeen year old twins, but they have very different temperaments. Jared is very intense and serious, while Lukas is more laid back and charming. Priest is an engineering genius, even though he's only fifteen, and quite sweet. Alara is also seventeen, but she is good with wards and is quite focused and determined. Together, they are four-fifths of a group called the Legion; a secret group of ghost and demon hunters. Kennedy finds herself becoming the fifth member of this motley crew.
This story is full of action and danger, secrets and surprises. I loved watching the scenes unfold. The descriptions of the people and places were such that I could picture them with ease. There is a palpable sexual chemistry between Kennedy and Jared, and the tension is building nicely between them. The book finishes on a cliffhanger that felt a bit tame compared to the scene preceding it, but I am now looking forward to reading the next book in the series as soon as possible.

Kami Garcia has written a fantastic YA Paranormal Romance/Urban Fantasy. I loved her fast paced writing style, and the flow was wonderful. Although I loved the Beautiful Creatures series, I think that this book has shown me that she can write stories on her own. I hope she will continue to do so in the future.

I highly recommend this book if you love YA/Paranormal Romances/Urban Fantasy. - Lynn Worton

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