Blog Tour & Giveaway: Nightwise by R.S. Belcher

Nightwise by R.S. Belcher
Published August 18th, 2015 by Tor Books

About the book
The acclaimed author of The Six-Gun Tarot and The Shotgun Arcana launches a gritty new urban fantasy series set in today’s seedy occult underworld

In the more shadowy corners of the world, frequented by angels and demons and everything in-between, Laytham Ballard is a legend. It’s said he raised the dead at the age of ten, stole the Philosopher’s Stone in Vegas back in 1999, and survived the bloodsucking kiss of the Mosquito Queen. Wise in the hidden ways of the night, he’s also a cynical bastard who stopped thinking of himself as the good guy a long time ago.

Now a promise to a dying friend has Ballard on the trail of an escaped Serbian war criminal with friends in both high and low places—and a sinister history of blood sacrifices. Ballard is hell-bent on making Dusan Slorzack pay for his numerous atrocities, but Slorzack seems to have literally dropped off the face of the Earth, beyond the reach of his enemies, the Illuminati, and maybe even the Devil himself. To find Slorzack, Ballard must follow a winding, treacherous path that stretches from Wall Street and Washington, D.C. to backwoods hollows and truckstops, while risking what’s left of his very soul . . . . 

My thoughts:
This was definitely different and not at all what I had expected.  Every urban fantasy I have read has a formula and I always love the main character. This was not so with Nightwise and I found myself struggling to love Laytham.  But you know what, R.S. Belcher managed to make me like him and let me tell you it was not easy.

I'll start with characters since that is what I opened my review up with.  Laytham is not your normal UF hero.  Nope he was dirty and not in the sexy way.  He was the chain smoking, long haired, Kid Rock of this world and it took me a looonnnggg time to like him.  I still don't know if I really do honestly.  He's selfish and not shy about saying it, but well I got sucked into his badassness.  I hate to admit it, but I did.  After a point in the story I just couldn't help it.  Laytham is not swoon worthy in the slightest, but I think he might have potential in there somewhere. I am hoping that his charm or whatever he has underneath all that yuckiness comes out in the next one because I need to see it.  Yes he says darlin' and baby just the right way and yes his magical skills are quite impressive, but a girl needs more than just that.

Story was actually really good. It did take me a long time to fall into this one, but I think that had more to do with Laytham than the story.  He was a roadblock, but once I got passed him everything clicked and I saw him and the story like a Nicholas Cage movie.  Think 60 Seconds meets National Treasure.  The story definitely had a historical adventure feel to it and in the end it was actually really interesting.  Now some might start thinking a little too much on what unravels in the end and really its kinda hard not to go there myself.  Conspiracy theorist could have a hay day with this bad boy and I have to give the author huge credit for thinking this up.

I think my favorite part was finding out who Laythams dad was.  What a hoot!  I can't wait to see where all that goes!  

The two things that bugged me were the filler chapters.  There were a few of them and they felt really out of place.  I think a few could have been moved to the beginning and if they had I would have gotten to know more about Laytham and maybe liked him from the get go.  As it stands though those chapters just felt strange and took the story away from what was going on.  The other thing was the drinking in bad situations.  If you are a badass wizard stop drinking when you need to think!!  Every time I would scream at him! 

Other than those two things I did enjoy this quite a bit.  If you are looking for a typical UF this isn't what you need, but if you are looking for a selfish, badass wizard with a debt to pay adventure this is for you!  Fun story and series that I will definitely continue on with!  

4 suns

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Review: Forbidden (The World of Nightwalkers #1) by Jacquelyn Frank

Forbidden (The World of Nightwalkers #1) by Jacquelyn Frank
Published on October 30th, 2012 by Ballantine Books

About the book
From New York Times bestselling author Jacquelyn Frank comes this first book in The World of the Nightwalkers—an exciting and sensual new spin-off series in which the Bodywalkers, an ancient race of the night, battles the evil forces who prey on them.
The unexpected happens in an instant. On her way to work, secretary Docia Waverley hurtles into a crashing crossroads, and she quickly begins to suspect that things will never be the same. Then, when a tall, blond, muscular stranger intervenes on her behalf, telling her it is his duty to protect her at all cost, what is just a feeling turns to proof positive. That is, as long as Docia’s savior doesn’t turn out to be a crazed kidnapper.

When Ram finds Docia, he has no doubt that she is his queen. But as this golden warrior sweeps in to protect her, he feels something more than body heat every time they touch. He is overwhelmed by a searing connection that goes deep into the twin souls inside him. A desire rises in him that is forbidden—this woman is his queen, the mate of his king, his leader, his best friend. And yet Docia is so vulnerable and attractive that she awakens a hunger in Ram that is undeniable, a carnal craving he cannot yield to . . . not without risking the very survival of the Bodywalkers.

My thoughts:
I am not quite sure how I feel about this one.  On one hand I really have to give the author credit for originality, but on the other I am just not sure my imagination can go where the author wants me to go.  Let me try and explain...

I sent this text to my reading buddy..."A Pharaoh sends its soul to a human in order to return to Earth.  Now there are 2 souls living in one body and the Pharaoh basically has domination over that human body now.  And when that said human/Pharaoh has steamy time with another blended person there are basically 4 people having steamy time"...does that make sense to you?  I am honestly still trying to grasp the whole blended two people in one body scenario here.  I liked Docia and I liked Ram, but then you throw in Vincent the host for Ram and Docia's carbon (the Egyptian soul that has set up camp in her body) and my feelings go wonky.

I started feeling bad for Vincent and Docia because it seems like they basically get taken over by these other souls.  Ram is obviously the dominate one in his situation and it makes me wonder what will happen to Docia, the one he loves??  I know he is connected to her other soul, but it just feels weird!  It's  like there are four people in this relationship and for me that's two too many.  I don't know if I will ever be okay with this.  Maybe I have read too many sci fi books where the aliens take over the human body and that's my hang up. I just can't see this as good because Docia will lose herself.  How can this work??!

All that aside the author does have an original idea.  The whole Egyptian mythology was really interesting and I am definitely going to continue on for at least one more book to see what the author has up her sleeve.  I think I know because of how things ended, but I am really curious to see how a certain soul will retrieve his soulmate.

The only other thing that bothered was the transitions. They were all really awkward and it always took me a few sentences to catch up and realize I was reading from somebody elses POV and more often than not in a completely different scene.  This made the book feel clunky and clumsy.

So if you can get past the whole two souls in one body you might want to give this a go. I also know that with this genre it always takes me at least two to three books to really get into the story so maybe that's it too.  I have definitely read stranger things so I won't write this one off yet.

3 suns

Review: Storm Front by Jim Butcher

Storm Front (The Dresden Files, #1) by Jim Butcher
Published on April 1, 2000 by ROC

About the book
HARRY DRESDEN — WIZARD Lost Items Found. Paranormal Investigations. Consulting. Advice. Reasonable Rates. No Love Potions, Endless Purses, or Other Entertainment. Harry Dresden is the best at what he does. Well, technically, he's the only at what he does. So when the Chicago P.D. has a case that transcends mortal creativity or capability, they come to him for answers. For the "everyday" world is actually full of strange and magical things—and most don't play well with humans. That's where Harry comes in. Takes a wizard to catch a—well, whatever. There's just one problem. Business, to put it mildly, stinks. So when the police bring him in to consult on a grisly double murder committed with black magic, Harry's seeing dollar signs. But where there's black magic, there's a black mage behind it. And now that mage knows Harry's name. And that's when things start to get interesting. 

My Thoughts:
Let me first say that I am loving books from the guys POV written by male authors. I never thought I would say that, but man I think I have been seriously missing out on some great reads!  Storm Front wasn't as strong as I think it could have been, but I can't deny how much I really enjoyed it.

I am a Urban Fantasy lover and this book has been screaming my name for forever!  I was so excited when I started our Waves Reading Challenge because it pushed me to pick this up!  Storm Front has everything. Vampires, fae, demons, and Harry the resident wizard.  I love Harry.  He was such a fun character to get to know.  I think what I loved best about him was how sincere he was. Sometimes in these types of books the main hero can be a bit sure of himself and have an ego, but Harry just didn't have that.  He knew his limits and tried to play by the rules that were set.  It wasn't easy and there were times he almost caved, but he was a pretty stand up character and I can't wait to learn more about him! 

The story itself was pretty good.  I liked the introduction of key players that I am sure will be present in future books, and I really liked the world.  This first installment did feel sort of like a guide book and a here's what you need to know, but I still liked it.  It makes me really want to jump into the sequel since hopefully the author will focus more on story and character and I want that story!  I also really liked the romance part of the story.  Lately I have been over the whole NA angst stroylines and this was a refreshing twist.  There isn't a huge romance, but I can see one developing and I hope it continues.  I think the author did an amazing job at showing how Harry thinks and it was fun to watch him interact with the ladies.  He wasn't a ladies man that's for sure so it was laugh out loud funny at times.  Just the kind of romance I am looking for!

The only downside for me was that there did seem to be a few plot holes, and some things weren't tied up.  Knowing this is a series though I have a feeling the author just needed to get the ball rolling and (hopefully) each book will be better and better.  This series has great potential and I have really high hopes for the other installments.

4 suns

Review: When Love Happens by Darcy Burke

When Love Happens by Darcy Burke
Published on May 26th, 2015 by Avon Impulse

About the book
Tori Archer is married…well, on paper anyway. She hasn’t actually seen her husband since the disastrous morning after their impulsive Vegas wedding. The memories of their intense passion may still make her weak in the knees, but Tori knows their marriage was a mistake.

After six months filming abroad, television producer Sean Hennessy wants nothing more than to track down his sexy, captivating wife and get her into bed… fast. So when his boss sends him to Oregon to persuade the famous Archer sextuplets—the former stars of a reality TV show—to do a reunion special, Sean sees the perfect chance to win Tori back.

Only, Tori wants nothing to do with him and is determined to push him away. But their attraction is as hot as ever and Sean will do anything to prove their relationship was more than just a fling…because he knows that when real love happens, it changes everything.

My Thoughts:
I have been out of the romance game for awhile now and honestly I was a little scared to jump back in.  My tastes have drastically changed in the last few months and romance just hasn't interested me, but When Love Happens is a perfect example of what an author can do for a reader.  Darcy Burke has renewed my faith in romance and shown me what I have been missing!

Tori and Sean engaged in a whirlwind 5 week romance that ended in a quickie wedding in Vegas.  That same night though tragedy struck and Tori runs home leaving Sean and their newly marriage behind.  After six months Sean, having no other options, goes to Tori to try and save his job and also to see what might be left of their relationship.  He isn't ready to throw in the towel and knows things won't be easy because sometimes a heart can't relearn love no matter how hard you try.

I fell into this story with ease. The writing kept me engaged and I truly enjoyed each and every character.  What I thought was fascinating was the Archers.  Yes they were rich and yes they were all driven, but they weren't perfect.  They each had their own flaws some being bigger than others and honestly it was nice to not read the "they have it all and some" storyline.  I liked the edge the author gave this family.  I did get a bit confused at times because there were just so many of them, but I still really loved them all.  For me they took center stage.  Tori and Sean had a very nice storyline, but I was totally captivated by this family and I know I will definitely pick up the previous books because I have not had enough of them.

As I said Tori and Sean had a really good storyline.  I liked the whole reality show storyline because yes I admit it I am a reality show junkie, but what I really enjoyed was just them.  It was exciting to see how Tori reacted to Sean and I rooted for them from the beginning.  Sometimes I could take or leave the main couple in romances, but not these two.  I wanted Tori to forgive herself and let Sean in and I wanted Sean to give everything and more to Tori to remind her of what they once were.

This was a fast and fun read that left me wanting more from the whole crew.  I am thoroughly captivated by this author and her writing and I can't to find out how the rest of the Archers find their HEA's!

4 suns

Review: On the Edge by Ilona Andrews

 

On the Edge (The Edge, #1) by Ilona Andrews
Published October 2009 by Penguin Berkely Ace

About the Book
Rose Drayton lives on the Edge, between the world of the Broken (where people drive cars, shop at Wal-Mart, and magic is a fairy tale) and the Weird (where blueblood aristocrats rule, changelings roam, and the strength of your magic can change your destiny). Only Edgers like Rose can easily travel from one world to the next, but they never truly belong in either.

Rose thought if she practiced her magic, she could build a better life for herself. But things didn’t turn out how she planned, and now she works a minimum wage, off the books job in the Broken just to survive. Then Declan Camarine, a blueblood noble straight out of the deepest part of the Weird, comes into her life, determined to have her (and her power).

But when a terrible danger invades the Edge from the Weird, a flood of creatures hungry for magic, Declan and Rose must work together to destroy them—or they’ll devour the Edge and everyone in it.

My Thoughts:
Every time I pick up a book by Ilona Andrews I always wonder why it took me so long! On the Edge was no exception to this and I will say this is another great addition to her expanding shelf!

On the Edge is pretty complex like her other series'.  The world is very detailed and I won't lie I had to read the description twice before i fully got it.  Is this a bad thing..no not even a little.  I love her intricate worlds because they just make sense once you understand them.  They are worth reading multiple times I promise.

The story was really fun too!  I can't even begin to explain it, but just know there is a log of ass kicking, swords, wolfs, cats, hounds, and powerful fun magic throughout this story. Also adventure, love, spice, friendship, and family. It was a very well rounded book that kept me glued from beginning to end.

And of course the characters were amazing.  I fell in love with each and every character from Rose and Declan to the young boys Georgie and Jack.  Normally I don't like kiddos in my stories, but with this one they really just fit.  I don't think the story would have been as strong if they were left out.  They were young but still held their own and added a bit of comic relief that was a nice touch.  And what can I say about our main two??  They are both fierce, loyal, stubborn, and just amazing.  I loved the chemistry between the two and they just felt right for each other.  Their ending was perfect and I even laughed out loud!

The only things that bothered me about this were the mini not really there love triangle I thought might happen and the fact that this is basically a stand alone for these characters. The triangle was pretty much just in my own brain, but it did kill part of the story for me.  I didn't like that feeling and I am glad that particular relationship wasn't really pursued.  If you read this you might not even pick up on what bothered me so really it's probably just me.  The other thing is I have gotten used to Ms.Andrews stories being pretty much centered around one couple so when I found out that the next book was about two totally different characters I was a tad upset.  Yes I want to know more about William, but I want more Rose and Declan!  I am hoping we get to see them in future installments.  I don't like losing people!

So even though I am losing people I am still definitely going to read the next installment!  I know Mrs. Andrews won't let me down!

4 suns

Review: Wicked by Jennifer L. Armentrout

Wicked by Jennifer L. Armentrout
Published on December 8th, 2014

Things are about to get Wicked in New Orleans.

Twenty-two year old Ivy Morgan isn’t your average college student. She, and others like her, know humans aren’t the only thing trolling the French Quarter for fun… and for food. Her duty to the Order is her life. After all, four years ago, she lost everything at the hands of the creatures she’d sworn to hunt, tearing her world and her heart apart.

Ren Owens is the last person Ivy expected to enter her rigidly controlled life. He’s six feet and three inches of temptation and swoon-inducing charm. With forest-green eyes and a smile that’s surely left a stream of broken hearts in its wake, he has an uncanny, almost unnatural ability to make her yearn for everything he has to offer. But letting him in is as dangerous as hunting the cold-blooded killers stalking the streets. Losing the boy she loved once before had nearly destroyed her, but the sparking tension that grows between them becomes impossible for Ivy to deny. Deep down, she wants… she needs more than what her duty demands of her, what her past has shaped for her.

But as Ivy grows closer to Ren, she realizes she’s not the only one carrying secrets that could shatter the frail bond between them. There’s something he’s not telling her, and one thing is for certain. She’s no longer sure what is more dangerous to her—the ancient beings threatening to take over the town or the man demanding to lay claim to her heart and her soul.

My Thoughts:
I had a hard time with this one.  When I first heard about this book I was so excited because I lately I am so over the typical NA formula.  Well Wicked threw in my favorite things fae and JLA so I thought this book would be a solid 5 star.  Unfortunately I had a lot of problems throughout the book and I am left really thinking that NA just might not be for me.

I know a lot of people who have loved this so don't just take my review and throw this book out the window.  My problems with it are all most likely just my own, but I'll explain why this didn't quite work for me...

First Ren.  A few years ago I would have been swooning and squeeing with the masses over him, but this time and day yeah not so much.  He was too perfect.  I don't need damaged beyond belief characters to fall in love with, but I don't need say all the right things, beyond gorgeous where every woman within a 100 mile radius tells you he's gorgeous, and in general too perfect either. I wanted Ren to be more.  Yes he was there for Ivy in every sense of the word and in every way possible and yes he did have a nice way of throwing her against a wall in the rain, but it all felt too perfect.  He always said the right things and he was just the all around nice guy.  I can see you are thinking I'm nuts and I should be head over heels, but I don't want too perfect.  I guess I just wanted Ren to be a little more edgy.

Ivy I liked.  She was a little too naive with Ren especially for someone who had experience, but I could live with that.  She was protective over her friends and took her job seriously.  I honestly liked her for the most part.  Ivy was my light at in the darkness for this book.  I liked looking through her eyes except for when she was looking at Ren.  I have to give her credit though she did stand her ground with him for awhile and give him a run for his money which was nice to see. All in all I was happy with her.

My biggest problem with this story though was the story itself.  I really liked the fae world that JLA has created, but there were so many holes and well the twist I saw coming a mile away and was really let down by it.  I think too much time was spent saying no no no and thrown in the readers face that it made the obvious too obvious.  I don't like where things ended and I can see a big angsty tug and pull arc in the next one.  I would have personally preferred the story to stay centered around what happened with the fae and the Order rebuilding.  I knew I would get a little angst since this is NA, but I did not expect to be fully thrown into another NA formula with just an added paranormal spin.  I don't mean to sound better because I actually really did enjoy the fae world, but it's hard to focus on that world with so many holes and angst hiding in the corner.

You might like this a lot of people did.  It's not bad by any means just not for me.  I wanted a tighter story and I feel like there were so many threads lose with this story and its characters.  I don't know if I will read the sequel because I don't want to read the fall out between Ivy and Ren.  It honestly took me 3 days to finish the last 3 chapters because I knew what was coming and I didn't want to read it.  I'm so sad that this one didn't work for me.

2.5 suns

Waves of Fiction 2015 Reading Challenge
-A book set in a college

Review: Images Eternal by Toni Decker

Images Eternal by Toni Decker
Published on September 15th, 2014

About the book
~If Images are worth a thousand words, hers sing a thousand Eternal songs~

The blood of a Guardian, the heart of an artist, no one can hide the truth from Amanda Hayworth. Focusing her visions through her camera lens, she reveals secrets no one plans to expose, even her own. To protect herself, Mandy hides her ability in plain sight, photographing local bands and showcasing the dramatic images on her website. Most bands beg for a feature article. But the new lead singer of one particular up and coming band isn’t like anyone she’s ever met. Lucien entangles her with his mystery and makes Mandy want things she’s never wanted before—strings.

Lucien Solvak has to impress an influential music blogger whose promotion could skyrocket his new band to stardom or flush them straight into the gutters. But the moment Mandy aims her camera his direction, he fears the images will expose his ties to the immortal he’s sworn to protect and destroy his one chance to live out his musical dream. Hiding from her camera is tough enough. Denying his growing feelings becomes an impossible feat, forcing Lucien to choose between oaths as a Guardian, his rock-star dreams, and the girl he wants.

Secrets define them. Lucien’s bind him to silence; Mandy’s bring her nothing but pain and disappointment. Only when they focus on what’s behind the images can they embrace their secrets for what they are—truth.

My Thoughts:
Unfortunately this book didn't work for me and I stopped reading at 56%.  I am so baffled because this book has really high ratings and I expected to love it.

The biggest reason for my DNF was because the first half of the book was centered around Mandy and Lucien playing a game of tag with words.  They both wanted each other, but neither one would make the first move so they used their words to get to each other.  Normally I would call this flirting but what they did went beyond flirting.  Plus they each knew they were hot so it wasn't really fun reading about them.

Now I know I have said I am not about romance these days, but that's not my issue with this book.  I went into it knowing that the romance would be front and center.  What my problem was that the romance didn't move and took up the entire story.  There is a major plotline here with immortal people, crazy paintings, and a camera that shows peoples true colors but at 56% I barely got a glimpse of these things.  They were mentioned more in passing and I just couldn't read anymore banter between the main characters to get to the good stuff.  It just wasn't good banter.

Lucien I kinda liked actually, but Mandy really bothered me.  Her character boarded on obnoxious and she was just too self assured.  Yes she ran a very successful blog and had major music connections, but she could have been a bit more humble.  She knew she was the shit and didn't try to hide it.  That kind of character bothers me and I tend to want them not to get the guy in the end.

I am really disappointed with this one and I feel so left out of the 4 star club.  Maybe I'll return to this after I read a few books to cleanse my pallet because the overall story sounds amazing and definitely one that I would probably like.

My 2 suns is for Lucien and the possibility of an amazing story.

2 suns

Waves of Fiction 2015 Reading Challenge 

-Read a book with a rating higher than 4.25 on Goodreads

Review: Bound by Flames (Night Prince #3) by Jeaniene Frost

Bound by Flames (Night Prince #3) by Jeaniene Frost
Published on January 27th, 2015 by Avon 

Play with fire, pay the price.

Leila’s years on the carnie circuit were certainly an education. What she didn’t learn: how to be a vampire, or how to be married to the most famous vampire of them all. Adjusting to both has Leila teetering on a knife edge between passion and peril, and now the real danger is about to begin…

Vlad must battle with a centuries-old enemy whose reach stretches across continents and whose strength equals his own. It isn’t like Vlad to feel fear, but he does…for Leila, because his enemy knows she is Vlad’s greatest weakness. As friend and foe alike align against him—and his overprotectiveness drives Leila away—Vlad’s love for his new bride could be the very thing that dooms them both…

Crystal's Thoughts:
I have been a longtime fan of Ms.Frost and I have always loved Vlad, but this installment left me wondering if I have outgrown this series.

It's been awhile since I read the previous book, Twice Tempted, but I am pretty sure this one takes off where that one ended.  Leila is now a vampire and is married to Vlad.  They are looking for Vlad's worst enemy and as you can guess things go terribly wrong just when you think they have the upper hand.  Leila is captured and this is where my interest started waving.

The whole capture scene was icky.  I have a lot of things and I am not icked out normally, but there is a scene with duck tape and well I just went ICK!  Add that to regurgitated blood and I'm out folks.  It was all just a little too much for me.  Thankfully this whole mess didn't last that long, but honestly the story kinda dragged after that.  Yes there was a lot of running and evading, but nothing we haven't seen before.

The ending left me going meh as well.  There was so much build up and while I did like Vlad's secret the ending just felt like a let down.  I expected a way bigger showdown than what I read.

My biggest problem with this series is Vlad.  Where is the funny self assured vampire I met in the Cat & Bones series?  In this he is brooding, emotionally closed off, and just boring.  He was so moody!  The reason why I loved this series was because he was so funny and always made incredible one liners.  In this one he barely even talks!  Plus he was so closed off to Leila that I got frustrated for her.  She shouldn't have had to deal with that on top of everything else. She was the one tortured!   Vlad should have been there for her.  Honestly my favorite part was when Vlad was talking to Cat & Bones. 

I just felt really let down with this one.  The story was ho hum, the characters not up to the standards I am used to reading from Ms.Frost, and the fun was just lost.  Will I read the next one, yes because everybody has an off book and I am just going to throw this story out of my brain and replace it with the next one.

2.5 Suns

Arlene's Thoughts:
I’m a huge fan of Jeaniene Frost, especially her Night Huntress series. So whenever she adds a new book to her paranormal bookshelf, I’m all reading eyes. Night Prince is no exception. The first two books were absolutely explosive, so I’m not sure what happened in this third installment.

In Bound by Flames, we take off on a high adventure with Vlad and Leila as they track down Vlad’s life long enemy Szilagy. There’s no lack of action in this book as both sides target each other through destruction and torture. However, the measures Vlad employs to protect Leila can eventually prove to be a liability when she’s captured and tortured.

I feel comfortable admitting that Bound by Flames is definitely not as good as the first two installments. Where Frost flexes her style best is with action and drama, and she proved it in this book. However, I would have like to have seen a bit more romance and emotional connection coming from Vlad. Every time he closed himself off from Leila I tuned out. There seemed to be a character piece missing in Vlad, which I missed.

However, I did enjoy Vlad’s confession at the end of the book where he shared how his Dracula legend was revealed. The story and the reaction was classic. Small moment that reminded me Vlad has humor and character beneath all that flame.

Since there's only one book left, I'll definitely finish this series out. I hope it ends on a high note.

3 Suns

Waves of Fiction 2015 Reading Challenge 

-A third book in a series

Review: Sharp Objects by Gillian Flynn

Sharp Objects by Gillian Flynn
Published on September 26, 2006 by Random House, Inc

WICKED above her hipbone, GIRL across her heart
Words are like a road map to reporter Camille Preaker’s troubled past. Fresh from a brief stay at a psych hospital, Camille’s first assignment from the second-rate daily paper where she works brings her reluctantly back to her hometown to cover the murders of two preteen girls.

NASTY on her kneecap, BABYDOLL on her leg
Since she left town eight years ago, Camille has hardly spoken to her neurotic, hypochondriac mother or to the half-sister she barely knows: a beautiful thirteen-year-old with an eerie grip on the town. Now, installed again in her family’s Victorian mansion, Camille is haunted by the childhood tragedy she has spent her whole life trying to cut from her memory.

HARMFUL on her wrist, WHORE on her ankle
As Camille works to uncover the truth about these violent crimes, she finds herself identifying with the young victims—a bit too strongly. Clues keep leading to dead ends, forcing Camille to unravel the psychological puzzle of her own past to get at the story. Dogged by her own demons, Camille will have to confront what happened to her years before if she wants to survive this homecoming.

With its taut, crafted writing, Sharp Objects is addictive, haunting, and unforgettable

My thoughts:
I have chills and I have had chills ever since I put this book down almost an hour ago.  This is the second book I have read by Gillian Flynn and I am quickly discovering she has the rare ability to shock and scare the hell out of me.

Camille, a mediocre reporter, is being sent to her old hometown to report on the murders of two young girls.  Camille isn't happy about it and knows going back to the place that hurt her all those years ago will bring up old problems and old wounds.  She doesn't get a say so she goes and despite her mother not being happy about her return she stays at her parents house and starts digging for clues.  What she finds will shock and scare the daylights out of you.  If you thought Gone Girl was crazy you haven't seen anything yet.

This story was so messed up!  It is definitely not for the faint of heart and it deals with a lot of underage icky stuff.  I cringed quite a few times while reading, but I went with it because the story is that good.  I have to give the author major credit because I didn't see that ending coming at all.  I thought I knew the villain and I was right in a way, but holy moly!  Ms. Flynn is rather brilliant in my opinion.  When I read her stories I just get wrapped up in them so tightly that I can't breathe sometimes.  I felt this way with both stories and I have a feeling it will just be this way with every book. I will say her books are a bit long winded.  This can be a good thing and a bad thing. If I hadn't already read a book by her I would have thought a lot of this book was filler, but if you read into the story everything she writes is relevant to the story.  There are a lot of clues that you can pick up if you really read between her lines.

The only part that bugged me was the romance.  I know I have stated in the past that I am kinda passed the romance stage in my reading, but with this one I just wanted one person on Camille's side.  I felt let down by Richard and while I know what Camille did wasn't okay I just wish things had been different.  I almost wish Richard had stayed just a cop. That way I wouldn't have felt let down and the romance wouldn't have even been an issue.  I get that Camille needed to heal and really needed help so I can see where the author was going, but I wish the reason why Richard did what he did would have been different.

This is the type of story I have been craving!  It was dark, scary, shocking, and one that gave me chills. I haven't been shocked in a long time so I am loving this feeling!  Even now writing this review I am still excited and jumping at the chance to start Ms. Flynns next book.  

4 suns

 

Waves of Fiction 2015 Reading Challange

- A book that takes place in a small town

 

Review: Protecting His Witch by Zoe Forward

Protecting His Witch (A Keepers of the Veil novella) by Zoe Forward
Published by Entangeld: Covet on October 27, 2014
Purchase: Amazon

The last thing he wanted was to fall for a witch...

Veterinarian Kat Ramsey hasn't a clue that she's a witch. Sure, she can read minds, and there's the whole “dimension-hopping” issue that she can't quite control, but Kat is determined to keep things normal. That is, until she accidentally hops into the Otherworld, and runs smack into Matthew Ryan–the seriously hot one-night stand from years ago who shoved her out of his dorm. Naked.

And there's the tiny matter of the curse she gave him.

May you never find satisfaction with another woman. Billionaire and former druid Matthew Ryan hasn't forgotten the curse, or the witch who gave it to him. Kat's unexpected return means the curse will finally be broken. Unfortunately, his libido has other ideas–like how to get her back into his bed one last time. But far more worrying is his suspicion that Kat is the seventh Pleiades witch. Because while he's turned his back on his druidic ways, he's still bound to protect the woman who made his life hell...

My Thoughts:
I have been a long term fan of Ms. Forward and I was super excited to dive into her newest series.  Protecting His Witch is everything the Covet imprint is known for.  Off the charts sexiness, gorgeous alpha male, and a female heroine who can hold her own.

Paranormal isn't a new venture for Ms. Forward, but the introduction of the Pleiades is and I was really intrigued with this myth.  Kat has no idea why or how she can "dimension hop".  She finds herself always falling right into Matt Ryan's hands and that isn't exactly a bad place to be.  That is until she finds out he is a lying cheater.  When a chance encounter brings them together again Kat and Matt both realize that there might be more to their bump ins and fate might have bigger things in store for them.

Matt and Kat were great characters.  I really enjoyed reading their story and it was with minimal drama which I am all about these days.  There was a few angsty moments, but for the most part they both wanted each other and showed it.  Their interactions were really steamy and fun.  Matt always seemed to be caught in a bad situation and it took me awhile, but I did eventually root for him.  He was what Kat needed and I thought he did an awesome job when he finally came around.  I also really enjoyed the storyline.  

This is my first Druid/ Pleiades story and I can tell you it won't be my last.  The story really came alive for me at the end though when a lot of my questions were answered.  I found throughout most of the story I was a little lost and I didn't understand the dimension hopping aspect.  I honestly still don't so I wish the author would have developed this a bit more.  It would have been nice to see more world building in general too.  I think I would have loved this world had I gotten more explanation.  The ending did reveal quite a few answers, but I still have a lot of questions and I am hoping that this will turn into a series and get some answers.  I don't like feeling lost, but the characters were pretty great so I went with the story for them.

One thing I really liked though was the surprises that were thrown in.  With these types of stories not much surprises me but man Ms. Forward really threw some doozies out there.  There are 2 that really grabbed me and I won't lie I was floored with both.  I am a little shocked at how future situations were handled when one particular bomb was dropped.  I would have thought that Kat would have been a little more aware of certain possibilities, but I guess in the moment logic sometimes fails us.

So all in all this was a really good start to what I hope becomes a series.  I liked the story even with the underdeveloped world and I really loved the characters.  

3 suns

Review: Take by Ella Frank

Waves of Fiction is not shy around here, you all know that, right? Well when we decided to review Take by Ella Frank on our blog and it came to posting the cover... even our glasses got a bit steamed up!! So in the spirit of supporting sexy looking book covers, but at the same time not getting our blog in trouble, we've decided to give you a link to the book on Goodreads with a fair warning that is quite SPICE-TASTIC! Come on! You know you want to push that button!! 

Take (Temptations, #2) by Ella Frank

Published on July 8, 2014 by Amazon Digital Services

TAKE – verb: to reach for and hold in one’s hands or get into one’s possession, power or control.

Logan Mitchell is a man who’s always been more than happy to take what he wants. It’s a philosophy that’s proven lucrative in both his business and personal life, and never was it more apparent than the night he laid eyes on Tate Morrison. After pulling out all the stops and convincing the sexy bartender to give him a try—he’s hooked.
Now, Logan finds himself in a predicament that demands more from him than a smart-ass answer and his innate ability to walk away when things get too deep.
He has a choice to make, and it’ll force him to do something he’s never done before—take a chance.

Tate Morrison knows all about taking a chance. He took the biggest one of his life the night he showed up at Logan’s apartment to explore his unexpected reaction to the man.
Ever since then, he’s thought about little else.
At first he was convinced his attraction was based solely on his body’s curiosity. But the more time he spends with the silver-tongued lawyer, the more Tate realizes that their physical chemistry is only the beginning.
He’s starting to catch a glimpse of what life with Logan would be like, and it’s one full of excitement and satisfaction—a far cry from what he had in the past with his soon to be ex-wife.

Each man will face their fears as they begin to understand the true meaning of give and take. Their feelings for one another will be tested, as will their very beliefs. But now that they’ve found love where they least expected it, will they be brave enough to reach out and take it?

Arlene's Thoughts:
If I had to rate Take on a steam factor from one to ten... this book is definitely a twenty... definitely! To come across a chapter where Tate and Logan weren't going at it... yeah that just didn't exist in this book. These two were absolutely insatiable to the point where I needed a nap after I was done!

In this second installment of the Temptation series by Ella Frank, Tate and Logan are faced with some pretty stressful situations when Tate is forced to confront his family about his recent change in life choices. To say his family doesn't quite accept their relationship is quite an understatement. Tate's family was absolutely abhorrent and brutal! I could NOT stand them in this book. So, when the sad realization hits Tate that he's no longer accepted my his family, he pushes Logan away causing an emotional rift between these two.

First off, I did not know these series would have another installment after book two! What a surprise!! The cliffhanger is not painful, but is was somewhat predictable. I saw that coming a mile away. I'm excited to read the next chapters in Tate and Logan's life, but at the same time, I hope this series doesn't get dragged out. As much as I like this MM duo (Not quite to the level of Ty and Zane, but pretty close.), I think their story can be wrapped up nicely sooner than later.

Next, see that book cover??? Yes, that's a good indication of how steamy this book is! Not only that, there is a scene in the book that reflects the cover! ~whispers~ That's Logan up against that glass door in case you were wondering. O.O

Overall, I love this pair of characters, and I was telling my reading buddy that despite how much I don't like jealous-y type relationships, the "covetous" feelings between these two seems to work well and add a bit of excitement to their chemistry which is already off the charts. Ella Frank sure know how to dial up the romance in her stories and she's a worthy contender in this genre. All very well done! Love!!!

5 Suns

Crystal's Thoughts:
Oh my gawd I need a cold shower!  The first book in this series was hot but my goodness the author kicked it up about 1000 notches!  I didn't know that was possible!!  This book was 80% steamy scenes and yes I loved every minute of it!

Ty and Logan have decided to see where this relationship takes them.  They are both in it so deep even though they haven't voiced it to each other.  The complications come from all sides and this new relationship definitely had its fair share of stresses.  Just when you thought things might be okay they would get thrown a curve ball and the biggest curve ball was Ty's family.  It was so heartbreaking to see what he went through, but I cheered when he chose love.  I know that wasn't an easy decision, but Logan deserves someone who will stand up for him so yes I happy cried when Ty told him his choice.

These two guys are hot with a capital H!  What I loved the most though was their hidden moments.  The cabin scenes were phenomenal and I just fell in love with these two all over again.  And oh my the jealousy was off the charts, but it worked for them.  They just wanted to be together and even though they are both hard headed as all get out it was an entertaining journey and very much squeeable.

One thing though this isn't just a duology.  There is another book and well I can't help but wonder if half of the steamy scenes were taken out would the series have ended?  I loved those scenes don't get me wrong, but they were in every chapter.  If they weren't getting it on every 4 pages I would start getting twitchy!  So yes I am invested and I want to see where the story goes, but I do feel a little bit cheated.  I would have preferred to have their story wrapped up in this one.  Of course though I will read the next one I mean they are pretty hot so how could I not?!  I am taking away one sun because of the cliffhanger and extension of the series. 

4 Suns

Early Review: Burn for Me (Hidden Legacy, #1) by Ilona Andrews

Burn for Me (Hidden Legacy, #1) by Ilona Andrews
Will be Released on October 28th, 2014 by Avon

About the Book
#1 New York Times bestselling author Ilona Andrews launches a brand new Hidden Legacy series, in which one woman must place her trust in a seductive, dangerous man who sets off an even more dangerous desire…

Nevada Baylor is faced with the most challenging case of her detective career—a suicide mission to bring in a suspect in a volatile case. Nevada isn’t sure she has the chops. Her quarry is a Prime, the highest rank of magic user, who can set anyone and anything on fire.

Then she’s kidnapped by Connor “Mad” Rogan—a darkly tempting billionaire with equally devastating powers. Torn between wanting to run or surrender to their overwhelming attraction, Nevada must join forces with Rogan to stay alive.

Rogan’s after the same target, so he needs Nevada. But she’s getting under his skin, making him care about someone other than himself for a change. And, as Rogan has learned, love can be as perilous as death, especially in the magic world.

My Thoughts:
Holy hotness!  This book OMG this book!  I knew this was going to be amazing and I was not disappointed AT.ALL!

Nevada is a private investigator and she runs her family business.  Her normal day to day usually consists of finding the cheating spouse, but when a Prime magic user blows up a bank and kills one of the guards her skills are needed elsewhere.  To save her company from being closed down she has to team up with Mad Rogan and find Adam (the Prime) and deliver him safe to his family before the authorities have their way with him. 

Okay so that is the really short version of the what the story is about.  Ilona Andrews worlds are always very intricate and there is just no way I can even begin to describe everything.  Just know that if you loved the Kate Daniels world I can guarantee you will love this one too.  It is so thought out and well amazing honestly.  I wasn't sure what kind of world I was going to be reading about, but man am I hooked!  I just want to know more and I want the next book NOW!

Love love love the characters!  Andrews always creates a tough kickass heroine and while I do love Kate I kinda like Nevada a little bit better.  I know I know I never thought I would say that either, but Nevada has a soft side which I like.  Kate is still one of my all time favorite females ever, but Nevada I don't know I just really connected with her.  She didn't give in to anybody and she knew what needed to be done and just did it.  I respected her decisions and I cheered for her when they worked out.  I also liked that she knew her strong points and wasn't afraid to admit them.

Mad Rogan oh where do I begin.  First I have to say I don't like the Mad part of his name.  I get its his nickname, but every time his name would pop up I would stumble on the Mad part.  I wish the author would have dropped it and just called him Rogan.  I mean after awhile he wasn't just a side character and he deserved to just have a name.  Okay that all being said my oh my as this man glorious.  He of course was a badass Prime and knew it, but there is something underneath all the cockiness that I can't wait to discover.  I loved his interactions with Nevada and well I did swoon at his words just a tad. Yes he is over confident, but I mean hello just look at him!  I cannot wait to see who wins the stand off between them!  I want Nevada to cave, but this back and forth is just too good! 

There isn't anything I would change about this book except for the name thing which is a small complaint. The ending was interesting and definitely piqued my interest for the next book. I wanted it already before reading the last chapter, but after reading that I am dying for it!  I want to know more about this world! 

This is an amazing book that I know Kate Daniels fans will devour! 

5 Shinning Suns!

Review: The Beautiful Ashes by Jeaniene Frost

The Beautiful Ashes by Jeaniene Frost
Publisher: Harlequin
Release Date: August 26th, 2014
Purchase: Amazon

In a world of shadows, anything is possible. Except escaping your fate.

Ever since she was a child, Ivy has been gripped by visions of strange realms just beyond her own. But when her sister goes missing, Ivy discovers the truth is far worse—her hallucinations are real, and her sister is trapped in a parallel realm. And the one person who believes her is the dangerously attractive guy who's bound by an ancient legacy to betray her.

Adrian might have turned his back on those who raised him, but that doesn't mean he can change his fate…no matter how strong a pull he feels toward Ivy. Together they search for the powerful relic that can save her sister, but Adrian knows what Ivy doesn't: that every step brings Ivy closer to the truth about her own destiny, and a war that could doom the world. Sooner or later, it will be Ivy on one side and Adrian on the other. And nothing but ashes in between…

My thoughts:
I won't lie I was a little nervous going into this book because I loved Cat & Bones so much and I wasn't sure if the author would be able to create something new.  I shouldn't have been worried though because Ms. Frost is amazing at what she does and totally blew me away with this one.

Okay so I have to say it, The Beautiful Ashes is like the Fever series by Karen Moning.  We have a girl who is trying to find her sister who may or may not be dead, a mysterious guy who we know isn't quite human but aren't told what he actually is, a relic that needs to be found to save the world from the big baddies.  Sound similar??  Now if you know me you know that I wasn't a huge fan of that series but and this is a big BUT I did like the overall storyline of it.  The characters are what killed that series for me.  Well with Frost's book the story is similar, but the character were phenomenal so that's where the stories take different paths.  

Ivy and Adrian were awesome.  They haven't surpassed Cat & Bones, but I have a feeling they could give them a run for their money given time.  I thought Ivy was a great character.  She was thrown into this world at full speed and tried to take everything in without flipping out.  She did have some clue to this alternate world because she can see parallel worlds, but she didn't know exactly what was going on until she goes looking for her missing sister.  She really proved that she could handle whatever was thrown at her and I appreciated that she kept her TSTL moments to a minimum.  I think she only had one of those moments, but it was necessary so I can forgive her and move on.  What impressed me the most though is that she didn't back down from what she needed to do.  Yes she was a little lusty after Adrian, but from the way he was described I can't fault her.  I wish her inner monologue about him would have been toned down a tad, but overall I really enjoyed hearing her POV.

Adrian was a fun character too.  I am very much looking forward to learning more about him.  He is dark and mysterious, but he does have something about him that just makes him feel young and not sure about this new world he is embarking on with Ivy.  I liked that about him, he's mature but he has learning to do and I am excited that he will do this with Ivy. 

Some of my favorite quotes are from the Cat & Bones series and I have quite a few already from this first installment.  I love how witty Frost makes her characters and I think Ivy and Adrian are just getting started.  I think its going to be hard to top the lizard visual, but I know she will.

I really enjoyed the story as well.  The world is intriguing and kept me glued wondering what will pop up next and umm can I just say that if there are thoughts about a spin off I would love one from Brutus.  He is the gargoyle and sounds like someone we all need to meet!!

Frost showed me that she isn't a one series hit wonder and has me already begging for the next installment.  I have a feeling it will be even better than this one!

4 suns

 

Group Review: Push by Claire Wallis

Hello readers! You may remember Push by Claire Wallis from a Waves of Sunday post a few weeks back.  Well since then I suckered talked Arlene and Crystal into reading this with me so you can read our reactions on this CRAZY but addictive read below! 

Push (Push #1) by Claire Wallis

Publication Date: May 1st by Harlequin MIRA

Purchase Links: Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Kobo 

About the book:

I feel like I am wrapped in a cyclone. Everything is whirling around me, drawing the air out of my lungs and filling me with the best kind of turmoil. Every time his tongue slides against mine, a prickle in my gut tells me how right we are together. How much I need David. How much I need us.

I hope the cyclone never stops.

Emma Searfoss has spent a lifetime trying to escape her abusive stepfather. It's why she moved far away from home. It's why she's kept no ties with her remaining family. And it's why she's got a major rage problem. When her neighbor shows up to fix the kitchen in her new apartment, his enigmatic charm calms the fire in her. David is cool and collected, and he makes Emma feel safe for the first time ever. But David has his own chilling past—his six previous girlfriends have all disappeared without a trace. Emma's walking a dangerous line, but David's pull is intoxicating. And impossible to resist…

This is a new adult romance with mature content for readers 17 and up.

Arlene's Thoughts
I picked up Push by Claire Wallis as a buddy read with my roomies Rachel and Crystal because what better way to spend a weekend in Vegas with my girls than talking about books and hotel hopping, right?

Well leave it to Rachel to pick the twisted novels… let’s not forget that it was her that convinced me to read Captive in the Dark. ~wink.wink~ But I knew from the moment I read the excerpt that Push was going to be my brand of entertainment and create some fun discussion for us.

Well, let me just way…WHAT THE HELL??!! Not only did I read an absolutely disturbing novel that involves what I would call a psychopath, but I have it on good authority that my reading buddy loved it! I sometimes question my choice of reading company... in the most endearing way, mind you… HA!

So let me tell you about this book… spoilers ahead so watch out!

Emma Searfross is crass and full of hard edges. She’s forced to be that way because of her upbringing with her step-father and worthless mother that stood on the sidelines as this jerk tortured her from childhood. So when she meets her neighbor David who is both slightly arrogant and most definitely attractive, these two characters collide in an explosive way.

As the novel unfolds though, we get to meet several other women, seven if I’m not mistaken (Sarah, Kelsey, Elizabeth, Jenny, Anna, Lucia and Maggie) that have also fallen for David and let’s just say are no longer around because to put it mildly… he killed them!!!

Okay, I know I tend to fall for the bad boy, the anti-hero, the one that’s completely messed up, but come on! Even I have my limits. I will have to give it to David for getting away with all these murders but there was nothing about him that I found alluring or captivating. He was just creepy!! I did get a bit irritated with these two “covetous” people because sometimes I just can’t stand when a girl encourages her man’s jealous rage. Not appealing at all!

This book caused some energetic conversation which was quite fun, but for now, I’ll leave it to my roomies to tell me how it ends. I have no desire to follow David to the Brooklyn Bridge. Thank you very much!

3 Suns

Rachel's Thoughts:

Push was an addictive and shocking romance.  It was all kinds of wrong and I’m still not sure how I want it all to turn out, part of me wants a HEA if that’s even possible. Part of me is screaming RUN!  Run far and run fast!

Emma is fresh out of college and starting a promising career as an engineer in a new town.  Far away from her evil stepfather and the family forever changed by his existence.  This is where she meets David, the calm, controlled and cocky apartment manager and maintenance guy. Emma’s kitchen is destroyed so he immediately sets about fixing it, and in the process these two quickly fall for each other. 

It’s no secret from the reader that David has a questionable and mysterious past with girlfriends. All six of them have disappeared, but this is not known to Emma. As their relationship progresses and intensifies we are treated to short chapters detailing exactly what happened to each girlfriend in their POV and it is chilling!  Neither David nor Emma is what I would call well-adjusted or stable, but they seem to be perfectly matched. They’re both a little lot crazy, but they have a lot of reasons to be that way.

Emma’s family life was normal until her father dies and her mother marries Michael, a completely horrible man, to ensure the family’s financial stability.  His influence on the family is appalling.  I wanted to slap and choke her mother and brothers for allowing Michael’s mistreatment, and other things to happen!  Emma had absolutely NO protection from her family. So it’s no surprise that when David steps up and provides protection she laps it up. She has a flash trigger temper but this doesn’t seem to faze David whatsoever. These two just seem to get each other’s brand of crazy, and they have an intense, all-consuming sort of romance.  

David seemed to be calm and controlled, but he seemed like he could easily snap.  Emma jostles that control and David likes the feeling it gives him.  As his past is revealed it sheds some light into his personality, but I think it’s best to learn that on your own.

Push is very different from all the New Adult reads out there.  It was both fascinating and horrifying.  I’m anxious to find out how it all turns out.  Which reminds me, BE WARNED there is a pretty hefty cliffhanger at the end!  Claire Wallis you are one wicked woman!

4 Suns

   

Crystal's Thoughts

This book really got me off guard and that was a good thing and a bad thing.  You see I loved that this wasn't your typical NA, but man the author could have dialed down the crazy a tad!  

Push starts off with a side of crazy and just gets more and more intense from there.  Honestly I kinda wish that the author would have left the prologue out.  I think it gave way too much away in the beginning and left nothing for the reader to figure out.  If that hadn't been in there then I probably would have gone the whole story thinking that David was the horrible creature that he was being portrayed as and when the bomb was dropped at the end I wouldn't have been like oookkkaaayyyy no surprise there.  It just felt like a huge opportunity was missed.  

That being said though I really enjoyed that this wasn't your typical NA read.  Yes there is instalove and all kinds of jealous rages going on BUT there is a creep factor to it that surpasses any other NA I have read.  David just isn't your normal run of the mill NA broken hero.  Nope he has a dark and I mean DARK past that well if I were his one and only I just couldn't look beyond.  I mean really I would be afraid of every bridge in every state in every country in every continent..you get my drift right?  So yes this part of the book spoke to me.  I like all things creepy and David was definitely that.  Did I like his character hale no, but I did like that this was a different kind of story.  I get bored with the whole NA genre sometimes so this was a nice mix up.

My one big problem with this whole story may sound silly but really if you read this I have a feeling you might agree is that Emma slept way to sound!  (Rachel & Arlene I can hear you laughing stop LOL!)  She sleeps through a whole kitchen reno, her bedroom window being completely replaced, and she sleeps through David coming into her room countless times!  Now if I slept like the dead (okay that was funny haha..read it and I promise you will laugh) I would get an alarm on my door or something.  She has a nice job so she could at least splurge on that. She is a singe girl living by herself PROTECT YOURSELF!  It really bothered me because she just left herself wide open to so many horrible possibilities and with a horrible stepfather not too far away I would have though security would have been first on her priority list.  But I guess not...

I had a few other problems as well but those listed above were my main ones.  The story ends in a painful cliffhanger that leaves me angry because now I have to read the sequel.  I'm not attached to these characters, but I have to find out what happens after that last scene.  I'm going with a 3 on this one because I felt the story deserves it.  I was held captive by the insaneness of it and I really appreciated that the author chose to stray from the norm.