Waves of Sunday #85: Where One Goes by B.N. Toler

Welcome to our weekly edition of Waves of Sunday where each Sunday we spotlight a book that has been making waves in the book scene or has simply caught our attention causing a riptide on our TBR.

Today we are spotlighting:

Where One Goes by B.N. Toler

Published March 18th 2015

What happens when the very thing ruining your life ends up saving it?

I was never one to believe in spirits—until six years ago, when a bone-chilling accident changed my life…forever.

My name is Charlotte, but most people call me Char…and I have a special gift.

I talk to the dead.

Make no mistake, I can’t summon them. I’m only able to see and speak to the spirits that linger when they’re unable to crossover. They’re somehow weighted to the world with unfinished affairs. And for the last six years, I’ve relentlessly used my gift to help their lost souls.

But it’s come at a price. My life is dark. Feeling despondent, I’ve begun to give up. And in helping the dead, I’ve realized I haven’t allowed myself to live. With no money, no place to go, and most importantly… no hope, I’ve decided there is only one option—to end it all.

But fate is a funny thing. One minute, I’m about to leap to my death, and the next, I’m saved by Ike McDermott. The strong, striking soldier stopped me from putting an end to my despair. He’s the kind of man that smiles and brightens an entire room.

Sweet and gentle.

He is my savior.

And he’s dead.

We’ve made an agreement. He’ll help me find a place to stay and a new job if I’ll help him with his unfinished business so that he may crossover.

Ike’s unfinished matter involves his twin brother, George. George has been falling apart since Ike’s death and Ike has not been able to compel himself to crossover in peace until he knows George will be okay.

When I agreed to help, little did I know that I’d fall in love with the charming folks of Bath County, and…Ike and George McDermott.

Now, as both brothers own equal parts of my heart, I am faced with a cruel and unfair predicament. In saving George, I must let go of Ike.

But how does one let go of half of their heart?

Arlene's Thoughts

This sounds so completely different than what I've been reading lately. After looking for something unique and out of the ordinary, I stumbled upon this one by B.N. Toler and the reviews looks pretty good!

Waves of Sunday #84: City Beautiful by C.M. Foss

Welcome to our weekly edition of Waves of Sunday where each Sunday we spotlight a book that has been making waves in the book scene or has simply caught our attention causing a riptide on our TBR.

Today we are spotlighting:

City Beautiful by C.M. Foss

Published (first published June 26th 2015)

Patrick Thompson is all city, all the time. A young doctor, once full of passion, now disillusioned by the practice, he sets off across the country, intent on a small breather before a fresh start.

Ivy Lang loves the country way. So much so that she’s created a place where others can experience her ideas of the fundamentals for both mind and body. The life is perfect for her, carefully cultivated by her own hands.

He’s waiting for something to inspire him.

She finds inspiration all around her.

But when a chance meeting turns their worlds upside down, can they come together to create something beautiful?

Arlene's Thoughts
It's been a while since I've spotlighted a book on Waves of Sunday, so when I came across City Beautiful by C.M. Foss, I just had to give it some attention. The ratings for this novel are really high, and the consensus from the readers is that Foss is an amazing writer. All of her books have significantly high ratings, which is quite uncommon. Well, I'm excited to give City Beautiful a try and see if I can add C.M. Foss to my list of go-to-authors. It sounds promising!

Waves of Sunday #83: How to Save a Life by Emma Scott

Welcome to our weekly edition of Waves of Sunday where each Sunday we spotlight a book that has been making waves in the book scene or has simply caught our attention causing a riptide on our TBR.

Today we are spotlighting:

How to Save a Life by Emma Scott

Expected publication: February 9th 2016

Josephine Clark is trapped. A harrowing past haunts her every time she looks in the mirror, and she can’t escape the violence of her everyday life. More and more, her thoughts turn to Evan Salinger, the boy she knew in high school. The boy they called a mental case. A loner. A freak. The boy who seemed to know things no one could know. For a few short weeks, Jo had found perfect solace in Evan’s company, sneaking every night to meet him at the local pool. In the cool of the water and the warmth of Evan’s arms around her, Jo had tasted something close to happiness.


Cruel circumstances tore them apart, and four years later, the sweet memory of their time together is dissolving under the punishing reality of Jo’s life now. Evan seems like a fading dream…until he reappears at the moment she needs him most. Guided by Evan’s strange intuition, they flee her small Louisiana town, running from police and criminals alike, and Jo begins to suspect there is something more to his sudden return than he admits.

Over twelve days across America’s heartland, deep secrets come to light, buried pasts are unearthed, and the line between dreams and reality is blurred as Evan and Jo fight to hold on to their soul-deep love, and discover that there is more than one way to save a life. 

Arlene's Thoughts
This book caught my attention for two reasons…First being the obvious which was the book cover. Enough said on that point… :) Second was that it reminded me a bit of Reclaiming the Sand by A. Meredith Walters.  Lovers that were once close friends always has a way of tapping into my emotional side. Couple that with what looks like a road trip, and I can't wait to get my hands on Emma Scott's novel How to Save a Life!

Waves of Sunday #82 Holiday Edition: Unwrapping Her Perfect Match by Kat Latham

Welcome to our weekly edition of Waves of Sunday where each Sunday we spotlight a book that has been making waves in the book scene or has simply caught our attention causing a riptide on our TBR.

For the next few weeks, we'll be spotlight Holiday reads!

Today we are spotlighting:

Unwrapping Her Perfect Match (London Legends #3.5) by Kat Latham
Published November 11th 2014 by Kat Latham

’Twas a week before Christmas, and at the auction house…

At six foot one, Gwen Chambers has felt like a giant her whole life. She’s a calm, capable nurse saving lives in a busy London hospital, but healthy men give her heart palpitations. When larger-than-life rugby player “Little” John Sheldon convinces her to bid on him in his team’s fundraising auction, she discovers how pleasurable heart palpitations can be.

A rugby player was stirring, with desire no one could douse…

John has wanted Gwen since he first saw her, but when he’s injured in a match just before Christmas he suddenly needs her too. Not only can the sexy nurse help him recover, but she might be able to help him look after his daughter—a shy ten-year-old who speaks only French.

But will it be a Happy Christmas for all, and for all a good night?

From decorating the Christmas tree to ice skating at the Tower of London, Gwen helps father and daughter open up and bond with each other—and she bonds right along with them. But when John’s agent calls with a life-changing offer, Gwen has to decide how far she’s willing to go for her perfect match. Will their first Noël also be their last?

Amazon  |  Amazon UK  |  Barnes & Noble  |  GooglePlay  |  iTunes  |  Kobo  |  Smashwords

Arlene's Thoughts

There's nothing I enjoy more than picking up a holiday book during this time of the year. Unwrapping Her Perfect Match sounds like a great novel to pick up! It has a Christmas auction that includes a handsome hockey player, the possibility of a holiday romance, and the makings of a Christmas miracle. What more can you ask for?? Oh I know!  The chance to read this for free!! I'll definitely be downloading a copy of this book. 

Waves of Sunday #81

Welcome to our weekly edition of Waves of Sunday where each Sunday we spotlight a book that has been making waves in the book scene or has simply caught our attention causing a riptide on our TBR.

Today we are spotlighting:

Corrupt by Penelope Douglas

Published November 17th 2015 by CreateSpace Independent Publishing Platform

Erika 

I was told that dreams were our heart’s desires. My nightmares, however, became my obsession. 

His name is Michael Crist. 

My boyfriend’s older brother is like that scary movie that you peek through your hand to watch. He is handsome, strong, and completely terrifying. The star of his college’s basketball team and now gone pro, he’s more concerned with the dirt on his shoe than me. 

But I noticed him.

I saw him. I heard him. The things that he did, and the deeds that he hid…For years, I bit my nails, unable to look away. 

Now, I’ve graduated high school and moved on to college, but I haven’t stopped watching Michael. He’s bad, and the dirt I’ve seen isn’t content to stay in my head anymore. 

Because he’s finally noticed me. 

Michael

Her name is Erika Fane, but everyone calls her Rika.

My brother’s girlfriend grew up hanging around my house and is always at our dinner table. She looks down when I enter a room and stills when I am close. I can always feel the fear rolling off of her, and while I haven’t had her body, I know that I have her mind. That’s all I really want anyway. 

Until my brother leaves for the military, and I find Rika alone at college. 

In my city. 

Unprotected. 

The opportunity is too good to be true as well as the timing. Because you see, three years ago she put a few of my high school friends in prison, and now they’re out. 

We’ve waited. We’ve been patient. And now every last one of her nightmares will come true. 

***Corrupt is a stand-alone dark romance with no Cliffy

Arlene's Thoughts 

I don't normally pick up dark romance novels, but Corrupt by Penelope Douglas sounds too enticing to pass up. From the description and early reviews, it sounds edgy, hot and all sorts of messed up. I'm curious how Michael will play a role in the vengeance his friends are determined to dish out on Rika. Corrupt definitely sounds like something I could use to shot my reading palette. I'll definitely give this one a try.

Waves of Sunday #80

Welcome to our weekly edition of Waves of Sunday where each Sunday we spotlight a book that has been making waves in the book scene or has simply caught our attention causing a riptide on our TBR.

Today we are spotlighting:

Kick Push (Kick Push #1) by Jay McLean

Published August 4th 2015 

There’s a single defining moment within every skater.

It lasts only a second. Two if you're good.

Three if you’re really good.

It’s the moment you’re in the air, your board somewhere beneath you, and nothing but wind surrounds you.

It’s the feeling of being airborne.

The sixteen-year-old version of me would’ve said it was the greatest feeling in the world.

Then at seventeen, I had my son.

And every single second became a defining moment. Even the ones that consisted of heartbreak when his mother left us.

Seventeen. Single. Dad.

That’s what my life became.

Yet, every day, I managed to find that feeling of being airborne.

Or at least I convinced myself I did.

But I lied—to myself and to everyone around me.

Until she showed up; Tanned skin, raven dark hair, and eyes the color of emeralds.

You know what sucks about being in the air?

Coming down from the high.

Sometimes you land on the board and nail the trick.

Then kick, push, and coast away.

Other times you fall.

You fall hard.

And those are the times when it’s not as easy to get back up, dust off your pads and try again.

Especially when the girl with the emerald eyes becomes your drug...

And you become her poison.

Arlene's Thoughts

I have a few of Jay McLean's books on my TBR, but there's something about Kick Push, that I feel might finally get me to pick up one of her novels. The premise of the story sounds promising, and I'm in the mood for something different.  Josh being a single dad at seventeen sounds like he has a long journey ahead of him to make sure he raises his son right. Well immediately off the bat, I'm in his corner and I can't wait to read how his journey unfolds.  Sounds like my type of read!

Waves of Sunday #79

Welcome to our weekly edition of Waves of Sunday where each Sunday we spotlight a book that has been making waves in the book scene or has simply caught our attention causing a riptide on our TBR.

Today we are spotlighting:

Fisher's Light by Tara Sivec

Published March 24th 2015

Fisher,
I guess this is it, huh? After fourteen years together, starting a life of our own on this island, five deployments and countless letters I’ve written you through it all, I finally go out to the mailbox and see something I’ve always dreamed of: an envelope with your handwriting on it. For one moment, I actually thought you’d changed your mind, that all the awful things you said to me were just your way of coping after everything you’d been through. I was still here, Fisher. I was still here, holding my breath, waiting for you to come back even though you told me you never would. You always said you’d find your way back to me. Out of all the lies you’ve told me, this one hurts the most.

Enclosed you will find the signed divorce papers, as requested.
I hope you find what you’re looking for. I’m sorry it wasn’t me.
Lucy

To get the ending they want, Lucy and Fisher will have to go back to the beginning. Through the good and the bad, they’ll be reminded of why they always made their way back to each other, and why this time, one way or another, it will be the last time. 

Arlene's Thoughts

Fisher's Light has a few things going for it right off the bat.  First off, I'm a fan of Tara Sivec. I've read a few of her novels and know that she's an amazing writer whether she's attempting to be funny, emotional or simply relatable.  Second, I enjoy reading books with military themes, and couple that with a soldier that sounds like he's nursing some battle scars that are tearing him apart, I already know my heart is going to fall to pieces for Fisher. Lastly, I have to believe that the raving reviews are on to something, so I can't wait to find out how Fisher's Light turns out. I have a feeling it's going to be an emotional roll a coaster! Watch out!

Waves of Sunday #78

Welcome to our weekly edition of Waves of Sunday where each Sunday we spotlight a book that has been making waves in the book scene or has simply caught our attention causing a riptide on our TBR.

Today we are spotlighting:

Grayson's Vow by Mia Sheridan
Published September 10th 2015 by Createspace

A full-length, standalone romance from the New York Timesbestselling author of Archer's Voice.

Kira Dallaire is desperate.

Some challenges in life seem too hard to overcome. With little money, and even fewer options, the quick-witted and vibrant twenty-two-year-old needs to reinvent herself. Known for her generous heart and impulsive personality, she devises a survival plan, possibly her most outrageous idea yet.

Grayson Hawthorn is losing hope.

Some obstacles in life seem too hard to overcome. Betrayal definitely being one of them. With limited capital, and dwindling resources, he is attempting to resurrect his failing family vineyard, a self-imposed vow seemingly destined to fail. That is until a young woman enters his office with an outlandish, unexpected proposition impossible to refuse.

What begins as a temporary business arrangement, soon evolves into more as vivacious, spirited Kira challenges detached, arrogant Grayson to want more from life. To want more for himself. But as their wills clash and fiery passion ignites, they'll realize that sometimes the past creates walls too difficult to climb, and that lies and deception rarely precede a happily every after.

As Kira and Grayson race toward their destiny, they will discover that some vows are meant to be broken, and others are worth risking everything for . . . even your very own heart.

THIS IS A STANDALONE SIGN OF LOVE NOVEL, INSPIRED BY LIBRA. New Adult Contemporary Romance: Due to strong language and sexual content, this book is not intended for readers under the age of 18.

Arlene's Thoughts

I've had a few experiences with Mia Sheridon's writing. I know she has a knack for writing beautiful stories with unforgettable characters. Archer's Voice, Becoming Calder, and Finding Eden are just a few novels I've fallen in love with, so when I stumbled upon Grayson's Vow, I immediately added it to my TBR. I really liked the sound of this story, especially because it involves two characters that seem to both be in a dark place. However, I have hope that they will get past their challenges and obstacles and find an HEA… those are my favorite kinds of stories. :) Can't wait to see how this one turns out!

Purchase Link

Amazon

Waves of Sunday #77

Welcome to our weekly edition of Waves of Sunday where each Sunday we spotlight a book that has been making waves in the book scene or has simply caught our attention causing a riptide on our TBR.

Today we are spotlighting:

Nuts (Hudson Valley #1) by Alice Clayton

Expected publication: October 20th 2015 by Gallery Books

From New York Times bestselling author Alice Clayton, the first in a brand-new romance series telling the humorously sexy tale of Roxie, a private chef who gets a taste of love—but is it to stay, or to go?

After losing almost all of her clients in one fell swoop following an accident involving whipped cream, private chef to Hollywood’s elite Roxie Callahan gets a call from her flighty mother, saying she’s needed home in upstate New York to run the family diner. Once she's back in the Hudson Valley, local organic farmer Leo delivers Roxie a lovely bunch of walnuts, and soon sparks—and clothing—begin to fly. Leo believes that everything worth doing is worth doing slowly…and how! But will Roxie stay upstate, or will the lure of West Coast redemption tempt her back to Tinseltown?

Arlene's Thoughts

I've recently returned to Clayton's original series Wallbanger and have been consuming those books like candy. This author definitely knows how to blend humor, romance and good ole storytelling to make for an entertaining time! When I saw this newest release, I quickly added it to my GR shelf and will not lose sight of this book. I can't wait to read Nuts by Alice Clayton, and I'm excited to share that I won a copy from Goodreads. Stalking my mailbox because I can't wait to dive into this book!

Pre-Order Links

Amazon

BN

iTunes

Kobo

Waves of Sunday #76

Welcome to our weekly edition of Waves of Sunday where each Sunday we spotlight a book that has been making waves in the book scene or has simply caught our attention causing a riptide on our TBR.

Today we are spotlighting:

Kaleidoscope Hearts (Hearts #1) by Claire Contreras

Published January 20th 2015

He was my older brother's best friend. 

He was never supposed to be mine. 

I thought we would get it out of our system and move on. 

One of us did. 

One of us left. 

Now he’s back, looking at me like he wants to devour me. And all those feelings I’d turned into anger are brewing into something else, something that terrifies me. 

He broke my heart last time. 

This time he'll obliterate it.

This is a standalone.

Arlene's Thoughts

This is one of the recommendations I received while I was at the Author in the OC last week. I've read Claire Contreras novel There is No Light in Darkness and was absolutely captivated by her writing ability. People at the event were saying the Hearts series is great, and I noticed she had a long line of fans waiting to have their books signed. Looking at the great reviews, I know that I'll probably fall right into this story that sounds emotional and heartbreaking. I'm sort of in the mood for a bit of drama, so I'll definitely dive into this one soon!

Waves of Sunday #75

Welcome to our weekly edition of Waves of Sunday where each Sunday we spotlight a book that has been making waves in the book scene or has simply caught our attention causing a riptide on our TBR.

Today we are spotlighting:

Carry the Ocean (The Roosevelt #1) by Heidi Cullinan
Published April 7th 2015 by Samhain Publishing, Ltd.

Normal is just a setting on the dryer.

High school graduate Jeremey Samson is looking forward to burying his head under the covers and sleeping until it’s time to leave for college. Then a tornado named Emmet Washington enters his life. The double major in math and computer science is handsome, forward, wicked smart, interested in dating Jeremey—and he’s autistic.

But Jeremey doesn’t judge him for that. He’s too busy judging himself, as are his parents, who don’t believe in things like clinical depression. When his untreated illness reaches a critical breaking point, Emmet is the white knight who rescues him and brings him along as a roommate to The Roosevelt, a quirky new assisted living facility nearby.

As Jeremey finds his feet at The Roosevelt, Emmet slowly begins to believe he can be loved for the man he is behind the autism. But before he can trust enough to fall head over heels, he must trust his own conviction that friendship is a healing force, and love can overcome any obstacle.

Warning: Contains characters obsessed with trains and counting, positive representations of autism and mental illness, a very dark moment, and Elwood Blues.

Arlene's Thoughts 
I've had this book on my TBR for a while, and it's recently gotten some attention on my Goodreads flist, so I really want to bump this to the top and see what it's all about. The ratings and reviews are amazing, so there must be something deeply moving about this story to get such raving attention. Couple that with what appears to be a very emotional story that involves depression and autism, I have to say I'm sold. Definitely diving into this soon!

Waves of Sunday #74

Welcome to our weekly edition of Waves of Sunday where each Sunday we spotlight a book that has been making waves in the book scene or has simply caught our attention causing a riptide on our TBR.

Today we are spotlighting:

Every Wrong Reason by Rachel Higginson

Published September 22nd 2015 by Smashwords Edition

First comes love.

Then comes marriage.

Then comes the… really nasty divorce.

Kate Carter thought she married her soul mate. She thought she had her happily ever after. But seven years into Kate’s marriage, she realizes that her husband Nick is not what she wanted. He’s selfish, he’s oblivious and he doesn’t love her anymore.

Maybe she doesn’t love him anymore either.

Divorce is the only option if either of them wants to find happiness.

Kate and Nick thought they knew what they wanted, but neither is prepared for the heartache that separating will bring them. The journey they embark on is not the freedom they wished for, but a painful look at the people they’ve become.

At the end of it, Kate has to decide if this is really the life she wants or if maybe there’s a way to salvage her broken heart.

Arlene's Thoughts

I'm a sucker for a marriage-in-crisis type book. I think it's the drama hungry reader in me that has me on the constant lookout for an emotional tale of a marriage going south. So when I can across Every Wrong Reason by Rachel Higginson, I also noticed how great the early reviews are stacking up for this book. This book reminds me a bit about After I Do by Taylor Jenkins Reid, which I loved!  Can't wait to get my hands on this novel to se if Kate and Nick survive the turmoil in their marriage. Bring it on!

Waves of Sunday #73

Welcome to our weekly edition of Waves of Sunday where each Sunday we spotlight a book that has been making waves in the book scene or has simply caught our attention causing a riptide on our TBR.

Today we are spotlighting:

Crossing the Line by Barbara Elsborg

Published November 28th 2014 by Barbara Elsborg

This is a dark romantic suspense with scenes of graphic violence.

Is there a line she won’t cross?

Katya’s sister is brutally murdered while working undercover for the Russian Security Service and no one seems to care. After her parents and grandparents die in a suspicious car accident and the authorities still won’t take any action, Katya travels to America, following the man she believes is responsible, determined to find her own justice.

She becomes caught in a dangerous and demanding game balancing the demands of two men with her obsession for the truth. Ethan, an FBI agent, is on the side of right. Aleksei, an enigma, is as bad as they come, yet it’s the man with darkness inside him who offers a chance of discovering what happened to her family. If she wants those responsible to pay for the murders, how far is she prepared to go? 

Arlene's Thoughts
I'm always on the lookout for a Barbara Elsborg book. This author just seems to resonate with my reading style. Her novels are witty, filled with chemistry and exploding with excitement. However, I also know how gritty this author can be with her romantic suspense novels. Not too long ago, she shocked me with her extremely edgy and violent novel Chosen, which left me slightly damaged. Well, I survived, and I think I can handle another rollercoaster ride from Elsborg as long as I get a healthy dose of chemistry between her characters... which I know she can deliver. Let's see how far Barbara Elsborg crosses the line with this one... I'm excited to find out!

Waves of Sunday #72

Welcome to our weekly edition of Waves of Sunday where each Sunday we spotlight a book that has been making waves in the book scene or has simply caught our attention causing a riptide on our TBR. 

Today we are spotlighting:

Noah and Me by Beckie Stevenson

Published December 15th 2014

“So you fix broken hearts, do you?” I ask. “Seems a little ironic.”

Noah Carter is one of the best cardiothoracic doctors in the country. He’s incredibly intelligent, funny, kind and he’s a beast in the bedroom. He has scars that drizzle down his chest and painful memories of an unforgettable night that plague his every waking hour.

Seven years ago, Noah stumbled upon me at the side of a grave and saved me in one of the most compassionate ways another human being can save another. I will always love him for that. Always.

He loved me in a way that no man has ever loved me since, and I gave him everything. I gave it all to him until my secrets and lies tore us apart, forcing me to shatter his heart into a thousand little pieces.

Seven years ago, he loved me…but now he hates me. And I hate that he hates me. Leaving Noah is my biggest regret in life - and I have a lot of things that I regret. A lot.

I’m Ariel Miller, and this is the story of Noah and Me.

This book may not be suitable for younger readers due to the adult nature of some scenes.

Arlene's Thoughts
As with most books that I read in this genre, it's the art cover that catches my attention first. So when I stumbled upon this book and read the description, it really intrigued me! I love a good romance that includes some tension, passionate characters and solid backstory. I'm hoping Noah and Me has all three because I'd really like to dive into this one soon and experience Ariel and Noah's story!

Waves of Sunday #71

Welcome to our weekly edition of Waves of Sunday where each Sunday we spotlight a book that has been making waves in the book scene or has simply caught our attention causing a riptide on our TBR. 

Today we are spotlighting:

Come Away with Me by Karma Brown

Published August 25th 2015 by MIRA (first published May 26th 2015)

An unexpected journey leads one woman to discover that life after loss is possible, if only you can find the courage to let go... One minute, Tegan Lawson has everything she could hope for: an adoring husband, Gabe, and a baby on the way. The next, a patch of black ice causes a devastating accident that will change her life in ways she never could have imagined. Tegan is consumed by grief-not to mention her anger toward Gabe, who was driving on the night of the crash. But just when she thinks she's hit rock bottom, Gabe reminds her of their Jar of Spontaneity, a collection of their dream destinations and experiences, and so begins an adventure of a lifetime.

From the bustling markets of Thailand to the flavors of Italy to the ocean waves in Hawaii, Tegan and Gabe embark on a journey to escape the tragedy and search for forgiveness. But they soon learn that grief follows you no matter how far away you run, and that acceptance comes when you least expect it.

Heartbreaking, hopeful and utterly transporting, Come Away with Me is an unforgettable debut and a luminous celebration of the strength of the human spirit.

Arlene's Thoughts

This book caught my eye because of the ratings and then when I read the description, the emotional potential of this novel flew off the page. I'm definitely going to dive into Come Away with Me to see if Tegan and Gabe can overcome the devastating loss they suffered. Debut novels always hold the best potential and I can't wait to find out if this book makes its mark in my memory. Looking forward to it. 

Waves of Sunday #70

Welcome to our weekly edition of Waves of Sunday where each Sunday we spotlight a book that has been making waves in the book scene or has simply caught our attention causing a riptide on our TBR. 

Today we are spotlighting:

My Biggest Mistake by Leddy Harper

Edie had spent her whole life planning her future, imagining her husband, her kids, and even which minivan she’d drive. Lucky for her, she didn’t have to wait long, marrying her high school sweetheart right after graduation.

All of Edie’s dreams had come true, until they were no longer her dreams. Unable to deal with the lingering depression caused by having children, she l Edie had spent her whole life planning her future, imagining her husband, her kids, and even which minivan she’d drive. Lucky for her, she didn’t have to wait long, marrying her high school sweetheart right after graduation.

All of Edie’s dreams had come true, until they were no longer her dreams. Unable to deal with the lingering depression caused by having children, she left her whole life behind, walking away from the one thing she'd always wanted.

Donovan Leery loved his wife with everything he had and could never imagine life without her. Until he came home from work one day and found a letter from Edie, explaining she needed a break. Not only leaving him to live his life without her, but alone to raise their three small children.

But what happens when Edie is ready to come home? When she’s ready to fight for it all back? She knew it wouldn’t be easy. But she didn’t care. After spending years getting her life back together, she was ready to fight for her family. And a fight is what Donovan would give her.

She'd fight to make up for her Biggest Mistake.

Arlene’s Thoughts
Oh wow! This story sounds like it is going to be packed with emotional twists and turns. From the description alone, I’m ready to side with Donovan based on what appears to be a selfish decision on Edie’s part. I’m curious how and if she’ll be able to make up for the pain I’m sure she caused her family. I hope this novel offers a dual perspective because I’d really like to process both sides of this story. Again, a novel that caught my eye because it sounds different and emotionally appealing.

Waves of Sunday #69

Welcome to our weekly edition of Waves of Sunday where each Sunday we spotlight a book that has been making waves in the book scene or has simply caught our attention causing a riptide on our TBR. 

Today we are spotlighting:

Sacrifice by Adriana Locke
Published July 13th 2015

My life changed forever the night my husband died.
I was left with a shattered heart, a heap of bills, and our daughter, EVERLEIGH. I don’t want to rely on anyone, least of all CREW GENTRY. He’s my first love and the man who almost destroyed me, the man who has let me down every time I’ve needed him.
But when tragedy strikes a second time, Crew just might be my only hope.


My life changed forever the night my brother died.
I was left with a guilty conscience, a pile of mistakes, and little else. I take care of JULIA GENTRY, my brother’s widow and the love of my life, and their daughter. I know she doesn’t want my help, but she gets it anyway. I owe her that.

When another disaster hits, I’m given the opportunity to make things right. I’m taking it. I'm willing to sacrifice it all. 

Arlene's Thoughts

I'm always on the lookout for something different and eye-catching, and it always helps if I believe the story will push my moral and emotional compass. So when Sacrifice by Adriana Locke caught my attention… well I'm not going to lie… it caught my attention because of the drool-worthy cover, I started to notice the impressive ratings. However, when I started to read what it was about, I sort of drifted away from it because I've never been into romantic sibling hand-me-downs.  I can handle the 'falls for best friend' type of love story. As a matter of fact, I feel Corrine Michaels did a great job with Consolation in that area. However, when it comes to brothers and sisters… I feel you can share your clothes, music, cars, but not your love interest. So, in the spirit of trying something outside of my comfort zone, I'm going to rely on the impressive ratings and see where this goes. I'll keep you posted. :)

Waves of Sunday 68#

Welcome to our weekly edition of Waves of Sunday where each Sunday we spotlight a book that has been making waves in the book scene or has simply caught our attention causing a riptide on our TBR. 

Today we are spotlighting:

What You Left Behind by Jessica Verdi

Published August 4th 2015 by Sourcebooks

It’s all Ryden’s fault. If he hadn’t gotten Meg pregnant, she would have never stopped her chemo treatments and would still be alive. Instead, he’s failing fatherhood one dirty diaper at a time. And it’s not like he’s had time to grieve while struggling to care for their infant daughter, start his senior year, and earn the soccer scholarship he needs to go to college.

The one person who makes Ryden feel like his old self is Joni. She’s fun and energetic—and doesn’t know he has a baby. But the more time they spend together, the harder it becomes to keep his two worlds separate. Finding one of Meg’s journals only stirs up old emotions, and Ryden’s convinced Meg left other notebooks for him to find, some message to help his new life make sense. But how is he going to have a future if he can’t let go of the past?

Arlene's Thoughts

Oh this has heartbreak written all over it! And well, sometimes I'm in the mood for a fun emotional roll-a-coaster ride. Just from the description along, I anticipate I'll have an immediate like for Ryden. It sounds like he's taken responsibility for his situation, but still hopes to be able to build a future for himself and his baby. Curious and hopeful that it all turns out in his favor. Definitely looking forward to reading this one!

Waves of Sunday #67

Welcome to our weekly edition of Waves of Sunday where each Sunday we spotlight a book that has been making waves in the book scene or has simply caught our attention causing a riptide on our TBR. 

Today we are spotlighting:

The Song of David by Amy Harmon
Published June 13th 2015

This is David 'Tag' Taggert's book, a supporting character introduced in The Law of Moses. This is a stand-alone story, but it is highly recommended that The Law of Moses be read first to avoid spoilers.

She said I was like a song. Her favorite song. A song isn’t something you can see. It’s something you feel, something you move to, something that disappears after the last note is played.
I won my first fight when I was eleven years old, and I’ve been throwing punches ever since. Fighting is the purest, truest, most elemental thing there is. Some people describe heaven as a sea of unending white. Where choirs sing and loved ones await. But for me, heaven was something else. It sounded like the bell at the beginning of a round, it tasted like adrenaline, it burned like sweat in my eyes and fire in my belly. It looked like the blur of screaming crowds and an opponent who wanted my blood.

For me, heaven was the octagon.
Until I met Millie, and heaven became something different. I became something different. I knew I loved her when I watched her stand perfectly still in the middle of a crowded room, people swarming, buzzing, slipping around her, her straight dancer’s posture unyielding, her chin high, her hands loose at her sides. No one seemed to see her at all, except for the few who squeezed past her, tossing exasperated looks at her unsmiling face. When they realized she wasn’t normal, they hurried away. Why was it that no one saw her, yet she was the first thing I saw?

If heaven was the octagon, then she was my angel at the center of it all, the girl with the power to take me down and lift me up again. The girl I wanted to fight for, the girl I wanted to claim. The girl who taught me that sometimes the biggest heroes go unsung and the most important battles are the ones we don’t think we can win.

Arlene's Thoughts

Amy Harmon happens to be one of my book buddies go-to-authors. I've heard her describe Harmon's writing as a slow burn type of experience, and that's kept me curious for quite a while. However, I've yet to try a novel of hers.  I have to say that The Song of David has caught my eye… HARD.  I understand it's best to read The Law of Moses prior to jumping into this novel, which is not a problem. I happen to have a copy sitting on my bookshelf waiting for its turn. So soon enough, I hope to get to The Song of David to see how this fighter and dancer's story ends up. It sounds so interesting!

Waves of Sunday #66

Welcome to our weekly edition of Waves of Sunday where each Sunday we spotlight a book that has been making waves in the book scene or has simply caught our attention causing a riptide on our TBR. 

Today we are spotlighting:

My Time in the Affair by Stylo Fantome
Published May 2nd 2015

~Mischa~

I made a conscious decision to cheat on my husband.

Now, before you judge me, hear my story. Hear how much I'm like you, how similar my thoughts are to your own. Yes, I'm a horrible person. Yes, I've done horrible things. Yes, I don't deserve forgiveness. Yes, bad things happened because of my actions.

But I'm willing to bet I've done things that maybe, just maybe, you have thought of doing.

Maybe, just maybe, you're not as innocent as you'd like to think.

Or maybe I'm not so guilty ...

WARNING: This book involves CHEATING. The word AFFAIR is in the title. The main character has an AFFAIR. In the synopsis (directly above), she states that she intentionally has an AFFAIR. If you don't like CHEATING, then you have been VERY WELL warned. Also, this book is primarily written in the third-person narrative. 

Arlene's Thoughts

Most likely my blog roomies here are not going to be surprised by the fact that I chose this book as a spotlight for Waves of Sunday. It's a very odd obsession of mine… but I find myself fascinated by stories about cheating, deplorable characters, and not so ethical behavior. I'm also the first to sympathize with the anti-hero. So, yes… when I came across My Time in the Affair, I thought that it sounded right up my alley. I'm intrigued, and I definitely plan to pick this one up and stretch my moral compass. Excitement!

Rachel's Thoughts
I had a giggle when Arlene told me she picked this book for WoS.  The main character sounds unlikable, and the subject of cheating is not popular, but I find myself curious, wondering why Mischa feels the need to cheat? What events brought her to that point in her life? If I can understand a character's motivations and sympathize with them, a cheating story can work for me.  Still, why not divorce first? I'm looking forward to Arlene's review on this one!