Title: Surviving Ice (Burying Water #4)
Author: K.A. Tucker
Publisher: Atria Books, 352 Pages (October 27th, 2015)
From:
Format:
Add to: Goodreads
Order here: Amazon, Barnes and Noble, The Book Depository, Amazon UK, iBooks, Kobo, IndieBound

NOTE: This is a "New Adult" novel. Due to mature content this title is recommended for ages 18+

Synopsis: The USA TODAY bestselling author of the Ten Tiny Breaths series and Burying Water—which Kirkus Reviews called “a sexy, romantic, gangster-tinged page-turner”—returns with a new novel packed with romance, plot twists, and psychological suspense.

Ivy, a talented tattoo artist who spent the early part of her twenties on the move, is finally looking for a place to call home. She thinks she might have found it in San Francisco, but all that changes when she witnesses a terrible crime. She’s ready to pack up her things yet again, when a random encounter with a stranger keeps her in the city, giving her reason to stay after all.

That is, until Ivy discovers that their encounter wasn’t random. Not at all…

Review: 4 Stars - Surviving Ice is author K.A. Tucker’s fourth title in her Burying Water series. It’s gripping, with characters that instantly draw readers in, creating a whirlwind of a plot. I for one couldn’t figure out what was going on from the start and as the story unfolded I was even further immersed in a wonderfully written book.

I’ve been reading K.A. Tucker for years. I’ve been a fan since her first series that she indie published. However the books in this series have kind of been buried on my “to-be-read” list. There was never a question if I’d love them, or even if I’d like them. She’s just one of those authors who know how to write a great story with memorable characters. This might have been the first book I’ve read in this series, but it won’t be the last. So if you ask me, this could be read as a standalone. I’m not sure if I’ve missed anything but it’s nothing that I could tell, so keep that in mind for new readers.

The story itself keeps you on the edge of your seat. You aren’t sure who’s exactly the bad guy, but you get somewhat of an idea not too far into reading. There’s an underlying plot that’s simmering just under the surface that plays a larger part to the story further on. There are shocking moments and steamy moments and lots of questions that you feel right along with the characters.

There’s character growth from beginning to end which was great to watch unfold. Speaking of characters, we have Ivy who’s a free spirited tattoo artist who has traveled, not ready to set down roots. It’s when she’s back home with her uncle that she feels she might have finally found the perfect place to stay. Just when things are going so well and she thinks she’s found her place, her world comes crashing down around her. That’s when Sebastian comes into her life.

He’s a former Navy SEAL. He’s quiet and secretive and is set out to solve an issue his current employer is having with someone in Ivy’s life. He’s there to retrieve something and deal with anyone and anything that might get in his way. He’s used to violence and isn’t afraid to get his hands dirty.

The two are like magnets’. They aren’t as different as they both think and it’s when the two spend more time together that they open up to each other, and question more than just where they are in their lives.

I wasn’t sure that I’d be able to find anything I could connect with in Ivy yet there were many things. Both characters have issues in their lives they are dealing with that make them relatable. Not the darker side, but the side where they’re people who are just trying to figure out where they belong in the world and the choices they’ve made in what they’ve done in their pasts.

I ended up loving just about everything with this book. The only reason why I’m giving it a 4 star rating was there were a few lulls while reading that took me out of the story a bit. Had it only happened maybe once I wouldn’t have even mentioned it but it did happen a few times over so it was more than memorable.

Overall, it’s a great book, extremely entertaining with a lot to give readers from beginning to end. It’s well written, even in the lulls and the characters are more than memorable. I highly recommend this title and I can’t wait to go back to the beginning and find out how these characters are intertwined. Happy reading.

Title: Pucked Up (Pucked #2)
Author: Helena Hunting
Publisher: (October 25th, 2015)
From: the Author
Format: eARC
Add to: Goodreads
Order a copy: Amazon, Barnes and Noble, The Book Depository, Amazon UK

NOTE: This is a "Adult/New Adult" novel. Due to mature content this title is recommended for ages 18+

Synopsis: Miller “Buck” Butterson has been banging his way through life ever since a puck to the face fixed his messed up front teeth, and he was drafted into the NHL during his first year of college. After five years of deflecting goals on the ice and scoring them with puck bunnies across the Continental US and parts of Canada, Miller is ready for a girlfriend. A real girlfriend of the non-bunny variety. One he takes on dates and doesn’t jump into bed with after five seconds of conversation.

Miller thinks he’s found that woman in his teammate’s sister. Except, unlike Alex Waters, center, team captain and all round nice guy—who happens to be dating his step-sister—Miller’s manwhore reputation is well earned, and not blown out of proportion by the media. Beyond that minor detail, Miller doesn’t know the first thing about having a girlfriend. But he’s determined to make it happen.

What he doesn’t take into account is the amount of time and effort relationships require, or that constantly letting bunnies take selfies with him to post all over social media isn’t going to win him any points in the boyfriend department. Miller learns—not so quickly—that if he wants to make Sunshine “Sunny” Waters fall for him, he going to have to do a whole lot more than show her his stick skills in the bedroom. 

Review: 4 Stars - Pucked Up is the second book from Helena Hunting in her Pucked series! If you love hockey players and the crazy hilarious woman who love them, then you’ve come to the right place! Oh how I love these books and these characters!!!

And now that I’ve gotten that out of the way, I couldn’t wait until I could get my hands on this book. After reading the first one I had tears in my eyes and my sides were hurting from laughing so much, I just couldn’t get enough. So when Miller… or Buck was up for a book, there was never a question if I was going to read it or love it, it just was and is.

Buck is Violets sister, who also happens to be engaged to one of his fellow team mates. The relationship he has with Violet is… well something that’s for sure. She over shares and has some pretty crazy idea’s but that’s what makes her, her. Buck just happens to get a huge part of his sister’s craziness.  He’s famous for finding himself in trouble, mainly trouble with the ladies, or puck bunnies. He’s got a reputation and he doesn’t mind it. It’s something that’s just happened. So when he finds somebody – Sunny – who’s worth more than a quick one night stand he’s got more than his womanizing ways to go up against. He knows nothing about relationships and has a lot he’s up against since Sunny is none other than his team mate Alex Water’s sister.

Sunny is different in her own ways. She’s more of a free spirit in her sweet, endearing way. Yet she knows more than she’d like when it comes to Buck’s past with the fairer sex. She’s not sure what to think when he makes it known that he’d like to get a chance to know her better.

Their relationship starts out slow and long distance. There’s a slow build and simmer that you can feel between the two as readers get a chance to watch what happens as they find their footing. Now, I have to say that I was a bit disappointed that this one wasn’t as funny as the last. There were some laugh out loud moments yet I didn’t have those tears in my eyes, side splitting moments that I was expecting. What I did find while reading was something totally different.

Buck, or as Violet lovingly calls him – Yeti – was nothing I was expecting to find. He’s kind, awkward, often doesn’t think and is one hundred percent confused by women when it comes to building a true relationship. Reading along as he was trying to find his feet was often entertaining and at times cringe worthy. However the hoops the poor guy had to jump through at the hands of Sunny were… frustrating.

I wanted to like Sunny a lot more than I did. I didn’t think she was fair in many of the issues she had. The two might have come from different worlds, but Buck was trying. He was honest and from the start he had nothing but good intentions when it came to changing his ways for Sunny.

In the end, I did love the story. I loved that I had a chance to love in this author’s world of Hockey players again. I loved the lines that made me laugh, I loved seeing Violet and hearing her crazy and I loved how different Buck was from what I had originally thought he’d be. That shock alone was beyond surprising and I have to say that I really loved the guy even more with how his characters actually turned out to be.

Yeah, you could read this one as a standalone, but I wouldn’t suggest it. You’ll be missing out on more than just the beginning. You’ll be missing out on some info as to who these characters are, where they come from and some of the bits and pieces of the story that began in Pucked.

If you love sports romance with a touch of over the top, look no further than the books – Pucked and Pucked Up! I’ll be counting down the days until I can read about “Balls” in Pucked Over. Helena Hunting has a fan for life in this reader. Can’t get enough!

Title: Counting Stars
Author: Keris Stainton
Publisher: Hot Key Books
From: eBook ARC from Netgalley
Format: 336 pages, (September 3rd 2015)
Add to: Goodreads
Order a copy: Amazon, Barnes and Noble, The Book Depository, Amazon UK

NOTE: This is a "New Adult" novel. Due to mature content this title is recommended for ages 18+

Synopsis: A new life in a new city - what could possibly go wrong . . . ?

When eighteen-year-old Anna leaves school and moves to Liverpool, she feels like her life is finally beginning. She's landed her dream job at a theatre, and she's moving into an exciting (if not slightly run-down) houseshare on a buzzing street lined with shops, bars, and buskers. Best of all, her new flatmates are kind, welcoming and a lot of fun - what more could she ask for?

But her new life is also a little overwhelming. Anna's job quickly falls through, and then she realises that although her new friends are great, they're also a little mixed-up... and it's not long before Anna starts using her blog to talk about her experiences, from the hilarious to the ridiculous to the little-bit-scary. But when Anna spills a bigger secret than she can handle, suddenly the consequences are all too real. She'll have to prove she has the mettle to make it in the big city, or risk losing everything she thinks she wants.

Review: 3.5-4 stars - I am a fan of Keris Stainton so when I found Counting Stars on Netgalley I had to request it. The fact that Counting Stars is also set in the city I was born, also had an impact on me reading it.

Anna has moved to Liverpool to start working in a theatre where she did work experience. She’s found a room in a house to rent and she is looking forward to her first big adventure as a ‘grown up’.
Unfortunately when the job falls through, Anna is all ready to give up and go home to her parent’s house.

With the help of her housemates Anna starts to create something resembling an adult life. But learns along the way, things are always as easy of they seem.

Counting Stars is told from third person POV- Anna and her 5 housemates. I did enjoy this, as you get to experience what’s going on in their lives first hand.
Anna is a Vlogger, who has always kept her true self hidden, she is nothing like her internet alter ego, but she wishes she could be. Add into the mix lustful Sean, Molly’s romantic and eccentric ways, Alfie’s need to look after everyone and prove himself to his father, and Nina who is unfortunately subject to an abusive relationship. You never know where Counting Stars is going to go next.
Having said this I do wish there had been more of a definitive story line, rather than it being more of a roundabout coming of age novel. I’d personally rather have a high impact story than one that tells of every day life.

I also enjoyed reading about parts of Liverpool, and on a recent trip to the city I found myself looking up on Bold Street (where the book is set) and seeing different things to what I’d normally see.

A change from my usual fantasy/sci-fi reads, Counting Stars was mostly light hearted, scandal filled and enjoyable to read. I love the idea of a big adventure for Anna, and in one respect I’m jealous of the character because I never had the bravery to move out to uni.

That brings me onto another slight personal bug; the College/University word usage in teen literature.
Recently I’ve read more and more UK YA authors who are trying to appeal to the American market- this is no bad thing; but because in the US university is called college, there is sometimes confusion when reading as to how old the characters are. This happened to me on more than one occasion when reading Counting Stars. What also got confusing for me was that some of the housemates attend Performing Arts College; so it’s referred to as college. Most 18 year olds I know refer to college/university as uni, not college, no matter where they are studying.

Due to certain subject matter in this book I recommend it for older readers, NA subjects included.

A good read for anyone who likes Stephanie Perkins, Jenny Valentine and James Dawson.

Title: The Fifteenth Minute (The Ivy Years #5)
Author: Sarina Bowen
Publisher: (October 13th, 2015)
From: the Author
Format: eARC
Add to: Goodreads
Order a copy: Amazon, Barnes and Noble, The Book Depository, Amazon UK, iTunes, Kobo

NOTE: This is a "New Adult" novel. Due to mature content this title is recommended for ages 18+

Synopsis: Just because she's famous doesn't mean she's happy.

Freshman Lianne Challice is known to millions of fans as Princess Vindi. But sometimes a silver screen sorceress just wants to hang up her wand, tell her manager to shove it, and become a normal college student. Too bad that’s harder than it looks.

She’s never lived a normal life. She hasn’t been to school since kindergarten. And getting close to anyone is just too risky — the last boy she kissed sold the story to a British tabloid.

But she can’t resist trying to get close to Daniel "DJ" Trevi, the hot, broody guy who spins tunes for hockey games in the arena. Something's haunting his dark eyes, and she needs to know more.

DJ's genius is for expressing the mood of the crowd with a ten second song snippet. With just a click and a fade, he can spread hope, pathos or elation among six thousand screaming fans.

Too bad his college career is about to experience the same quick fade-out as one of his songs. He can't get close to Lianne, and he can't tell her why. And the fact that she seems to like him at all? Incredible.

Review: 4 Stars - The Fifteenth Minute is the fifth title in author Sarina Bowen’s The Ivy Years series. The series follows different characters set in the same college, so each title can be read as a standalone as each title is its own story. However, characters from the past do make appearances so reading the book prior will give you some insight into who is who and their past.

Now that Ive gotten the important bit if info out of the way I'm free to gush about this series that I’ve read from the very beginning and have come to love, and without a doubt looked forward to.

One of the things I love about this series is the fact that each title has characters’ who are dealing with real issues, big and small. It’s one of the things I look forward to when I find a new book is being written. And in this fifth installment the author has taken issues to a whole new level with what her poor characters are forced to go through this time around.

And you might guess what’s going on… which I had an idea; however it didn’t take away from reading in the slightest because these characters and the way that the books written, you can’t stop, you can’t look away, you can’t put the book down until you reach the end! And when you do get to the end you wish you’d have read the book slower to savor it as the characters feel like friends and your heart has bled for them in their struggles.

The two main characters are DJ and Lianne. Both from different worlds, yet each is struggling with something so far removed from who they are, it’s shocking to see two people who are so different at the root of what is hidden deep down inside. Lianne is a movie star yet knows nothing when it comes to being a “normal” teenager in college, yet that’s exactly what she wants. A chance for a “normal” experience away from the spotlight, so she chooses a college far away from Hollywood and all its glamour.

Then there’s DJ, just your normal everyday college teen with a passion for music and hockey. He’s looking to finish his second year and is facing a difficult time at every turn. Forced to live off campus, he’s hiding from more than he knows what to do with. He looks forward to spending time with the Hockey team that his brother plays on and the time he can play music during the weekly games.

Neither of these characters saw the other coming and neither quite knows what to do when emotions and hidden secrets start to bubble over in their happy, fun, easy going relationship.

It’s the issues that create so much depth from these characters and makes the story with how it’s written, so much more than I could have asked for... and then some. I love these books, these characters, and this title didn’t let me down. It has all the things I love when it comes to a great book.

If you love characters with depth and a well written story then look no further than the Ivy Years book. There’s a buildup of the story that starts from the first page and doesn’t stop right through to the end. The issues are honest and will tug at your heart and the characters will stick with you long after reading. It’s a contemporary series centered around a college and college Hockey team that’s more than just about the sport. So, what are you waiting for? Go get started on this book today!

​Excerpt:

Lianne Challice is chatting me up.

As I fetch the pizza I ordered from the window, I try to decide whether or not I’m going insane. Maybe all the stress in my life has finally cracked me.

But no. When I deposit the pie on a table, her big eyes cut from the jukebox over to me, before darting away again. She is so freaking cute and so feminine that it’s making me crazy. Her mouth is like a little red candy that I’m dying to taste. And who has teeth that straight? She intimidates the fuck out of me, to be honest.

I make another trip to the pizza counter for paper plates and napkins. Usually we just grab slices off the tray like animals. But tonight I’m trying to be classy. The idea makes me snicker to myself. As if. Impressing Lianne Challice isn’t something I’m capable of. But I’m having fun trying. And there hasn’t been a whole lot of fun in this year for me. So that’s something.

Years from now I’ll look back on this night and laugh. Guys, did I ever tell you about the time I chatted up a movie star? I mean, my father is still telling people about the time he sat one table over from Tina Fey at Nobu.

Lianne sneaks another glance in my direction and I beckon to her. “Have a slice?” If she wants one, now is the time. In a minute my brother and his teammates will fall on the pizza like seagulls.

“Thank you. I guess I should. I didn’t make it to the dining hall tonight.”

“Your enthusiasm for Capri’s pizza overwhelms me,” I tease. “Aren’t you a fan?”

She slides a slice onto a paper plate, considering the question. “Pizza is like a nineties hit. Pretty good, especially if that’s all there is and you’re hungry.”

My own slice stops halfway to my mouth and I laugh. “Seriously?”

“What?”

“I don’t know if we can be friends,” I say before taking a bite.

“Because I don’t love pizza?”

I shake my head. “Who doesn’t love pizza? It’s, like, a basic human desire.” I cram a bite into my mouth to prove my point. Smooth, right?

She bites her bottom lip, and I realize I’d rather have that for dinner. “It’s okay. But it’s mostly just something you eat when you’re in a hurry or need to feed a crowd on the cheap.”

“Ah, I see,” I say when I can speak again. “The problem is that you haven’t had any great pizza. You’re a freshman, right? You don’t know all the glory that is Harkness pizza. Have you been to Gino’s Apizza?”

Lianne shakes her head. “I don’t think so.”

“She doesn’t think so,” I scoff. “Baby, if you’d had great pizza, you’d remember.” And now I sound like a real perv, but Lianne Challice is smiling at me, watching me with her big doe eyes, and I feel it like a drug. “They make everything from scratch. Even the sausage. We’ll go together, so I can prove my point.”

Annnd I think I just asked a movie star out on a date. Here comes the crash and burn.

First her eyes widen just a smidge. Then two pink spots appear on her face, one on either cheekbone. “Well, it would be a shame to live in this town and never know its true pizza greatness.”

I replay that sentence in my head and realize that she didn’t turn me down. “True,” I agree. “Do you think Thursday would be a night to experience pizza Nirvana?” I’m overselling the hell out of Gino’s now, but it’s working for me.

She gives me a serious frown, and I’m hoping she’s not busy on Thursday. Because I have back-to-back hockey games to DJ on Friday and Saturday. “Thursday it is. I shall prepare to be amazed.”

​QUOTES:

Sarina Bowen’s Ivy Years is my favorite New Adult series of all-time!” — Elle Kennedy, New York Times bestselling author of The Deal

“A love story brimming with emotion and tenderness. Read it and fall in love like I did.”
— Kristen Callihan, USA Today bestselling author of The Hook Up

About the Author:

Sarina Bowen makes her home in the Green Mountains of Vermont, where she lives with her family, eight chickens and a large pile of skis and hockey equipment. She is a graduate of Yale University.

Find Sarina Online:

Website | Twitter | Facebook

Title: This Ordinary Life
Author: Jennifer Walkup
Publisher: Luminis Books, Inc, 240 Pages (October 1st, 2015)
From: the Publisher
Format: eARC
Add to: Goodreads
Order a copy: Amazon, Barnes and Noble, The Book Depository, Amazon UK

Synopsis: Sometimes Hope is the Most Extraordinary Gift of All.

High-school radio host Jasmine Torres's life is full of family dysfunction, but if she can score the internship of her dreams with a New York City radio station, she knows she can turn things around.

That is, until her brother Danny’s latest seizure forces her to miss the interview, and she’s back to the endless loop of missing school for his doctor appointments, picking up the pieces of her mother’s booze-soaked life, and stressing about Danny’s future.

Then she meets Wes. He’s the perfect combination of smart, cute, and funny. He also happens to have epilepsy like her brother. Wes is living a normal life despite his medical issues, which gives Jasmine hope for Danny. But memories of her cheating ex-boyfriend keep her from going on a real date with Wes, no matter how many times he asks her.

Jasmine can’t control everything. Not who wins the internship, not her mother’s addiction, not her brother’s health--not even where her heart will lead her. She wishes she could just have an ordinary life, but maybe what she already has is pretty extraordinary after all.

Review: 4 Stars - This Ordinary Life by Jennifer Walkup tells the story of one girls struggles to balance home life, family, school, love and her future aspirations of being an on air personality via the radio. Her struggles are real and readers, young and old should find many things to relate too.

It wasn’t long ago that I first heard about this book. If I’m being totally honest I think it was when I received an email asking if I’d like to read and review. When I read the synopsis I knew I wanted to read it for more reasons than it just sounding like it was going to be a good story. I needed something different and this couldn’t have come at a more perfect time because different was exactly what I got.

As someone who reads many different types of books… I’m one of those people where if it sounds good, I’ll give it a try and with This Ordinary Life it had me ready to dive right on in.

The characters are likeable and as mentioned above the plot covers issues that many people will be able to relate to. The theme of family runs strong, even with the struggles that our main protagonist – Jasmine faces from beginning to end. She’s one of those characters who has to grow up much before her time. It’s sad that so many kids these days are often forced to become adults and to have to take care of adult issues so early on… and Walkup takes the issues of illness, college and relationships of a High School age girl and does a pretty amazing job of making her issues real and honest.

I also really enjoyed how so many of the characters greatly affected each other – both good and bad and that you see it clearly throughout. And how Jasmine and Wes meet, how their friendship develops also was a plus for me. Jasmine is smart, driven and honest with herself. She took her time, went about things slowly and built a true friend with Wes creating a stronger bond for these two struggling teens.

The writing is done well, the story flows easily that if I had started this book earlier in the day I’d have read it in one sitting. It’s memorable and the characters left a lasting impression on me for all the reasons mentioned above and then some!

I can’t forget to mention Jasmines brother Danny, because he does take a large role in the story. He’s dealing with medical issues and it’s Jazz that gives him everything he needs within such a dysfunctional family dynamic.

In the end, it was a great story with great characters. I truly loved many parts of the book and I won’t forget these characters or their struggles, their lives anytime soon. Should you be on the hunt for a fantastically written book with honest characters and real struggles, you’ve found it! I’ll be looking for more to read from this author in the future that’s for sure! I haven’t read much YA these days, and this was a great reminder as to why I love it! Happy reading!

Title: Screwed
Author: Kendall Ryan
Publisher: 296 Pages (September 15th, 2015)
From: eARC
Format: the Author
Add to: Goodreads
Order here: iBooks, AMAZON, BARNES & NOBLE

NOTE: This is a Adult novel. Due to mature content this title is recommended for ages 18+

Synopsis: I have one rule: Don’t shit where you eat. 
Several of the women in the condo complex I own would love some one-on-one playtime, and why wouldn’t they? I’m young, fit, attractive, and loaded. Not to mention I’m packing a sizable bulge below the belt. It’s a combination that drops panties on a regular basis.
 
Yay, me, right? 
But my cock, troublemaker that he is, has been confined to my trousers by my business partner. A concession I agreed to, and one that’s never been hard to enforce until Emery moves in across the hall. She’s smart, young, determined, and sexy as hell. I want a taste. I won’t stop until I’m buried deep inside the succulent new-in-town brunette.
After being warned about my past, she does her best to steer clear, but I’m about to show her that underneath it all, I’m a guy with a heart of gold and a cock of steel.
My name is Hayden Oliver, and this is my story.

SCREWED is standalone romantic comedy by New York Times, Wall Street Journal, and USA Today bestselling author Kendall Ryan.

Review : 4 Stars - A few words that sum up author Kendall Ryan’s latest release – Screwed, are: Sexy, sweet, funny and highly entertaining. These words often come to mind after reading a book from this author. She is talented and keeps the kinds of books I love coming.

I’ve read a few of Kendall’s books, and thankfully I have a few more yet to read but with Screwed I knew I had to jump on this one as soon as I could get my hands on it. The story, characters and writing didn’t let me down and I devoured it in one sitting!

There’s a rich playboy who lets his *cough* little head *cough* run the show more often than not. It can get him into trouble when it comes to the tenants within the properties he owns with his best friend. When said best friend gives him an ultimatum, a dare of sorts Hayden tries for the first time in his life to have a strictly platonic relationship with a woman. 

This is where the sweet and funny comes into things, because the woman he chooses just might test his limits beyond what he’s capable of. The heroine, Emery and Hayden kept me entertained from beginning to end. She’s smart, has a strong work ethic, just as Hayden does and she keeps him on his toes. 

The heat is there simmering under the surface but they do a great job keeping it at bay for something I believe they each found just at the right time – friendship. With that heat simmering it gives the characters a chance to work on the friendship without taking things to the next level. The story builds right from the start and is sweet as these two navigate their relationship that’s being built from the ground up. BUT don’t be fooled! As a reader you get glimpses as to what could be between them and it’s just keeps building and building and you just know they are going to burn up the pages when they finally give in. 

These characters also have their own issues, which made me worry because for Hayden you didn’t know exactly what was the driving force for so many of his relationship choices and while I didn’t guess the whole story I did figure out pieces. It didn’t take away from the story, which was great but it did add a touch of seriousness to such a light, fun, sweet and sexy read.

In the end I loved it. As I’ve mentioned I’m a huge fan of this author and have loved everything I’ve read from her at this point. She’s without a doubt one of my go-to authors and I’ll forever purchase whatever she writes because she never lets me down.

If you’re looking for a great contemporary read with characters who you’ll love, snag this one and give it a read. You won’t be disappointed! And one thing I can’t wait to read Monster Prick, which is out in November of this year. It’s a standalone however it features characters we’ve met in Screwed. It’s going to be EPIC and I can’t wait!!! So go and read this one! You’ll love it, promise!

About the Author:

Kendall Ryan is the New York Times and USA Today bestselling author of contemporary romance novels, including Hard to Love, Unravel Me, Resisting Her and When I Break.
She's a sassy, yet polite Midwestern girl with a deep love of books, and a slight addiction to lipgloss. She lives in Minneapolis with her adorable husband and two baby sons, and enjoys hiking, being active, and reading.Visit her at: www.kendallryanbooks.com  for the latest book news, and fun extras

Find Kendall Online:

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Title: Bounce (Boomerang #3)
Author: Noelle August
Publisher: William Marrow, 304 Pages (August 25th, 2015)
From: the Publisher
Format: eARC & Paperback
Add to: Goodreads
Order here: Amazon, Barnes and Noble, The Book Depository, Amazon UK

NOTE: This is a "New Adult" novel. Due to mature content this title is recommended for ages 18+

Synopsis: Playing the occasional club gig just isn’t cutting it for twenty-two-year-old cellist Skyler Canby, who’s trying to support herself and her mother back home in Kentucky. Persuaded by her best friend Beth to accompany her on an audition for the first feature film launched by Blackwood Entertainment, she figures why not? Beth’s a shoe-in for the lead, but maybe Skyler’s newly dyed pink hair will help her stand out enough to score a small speaking part.

Never in her wildest dreams does Skyler imagine she’ll land the lead role or that she’ll have her shoes knocked off her feet by the kiss her audition partner, Grey Blackwood, plants on her—a kiss that feels very real and not at all “acted. ”

After throwing a party that causes thousands of dollars of damage to his older brother’s home, reckless musician Grey Blackwood gets roped into working off his debt on the set of his CEO brother’s newest project. Grey spends his days fetching coffee and doing odd jobs around the studio, but he lives for nights when he performs with his band. He knows if he can stay focused, success as a singer is just around the corner. But that’s tough with a distracting pink-haired girl occupying his every waking thought.

Skyler and Grey have every reason to resist each other. But, like a song neither of them can get out of their minds, they have no choice but to go where the music takes them. 

Review: 4 Stars - Bounce is the third title in author Noelle August (Pen name for authors - Veronica Rossi & Lorin Oberweger) Boomerang trilogy. Each book follows a different couple throughout within the world these two authors have created. While they can be read as a standalone title, readers will get more out of reading if they start from the first book – Boomerang. The couples all interact and the story begins with the first book, continues on in the second and wraps up in the third. However as mentioned above, each book is about a different couple yet characters met in previous installments make appearances throughout.

The books themselves are fun and often light yet these two authors also have given their characters trials and issues that make them relatable to readers. And these two in Bounce – Grey and Skyler did not disappoint.

One thing that I can say is that these two authors write well together and I’ve been impressed with all three books. Since at this point we have to say goodbye to the Boomerang world, they will be missed. However if Rossi & Oberweger revisit and write more within this group of characters I’ll be jumping all over reading what comes next.

Grey’s been part of all of the books in some way. Being Adams brother he’s had a lot to live up to. You really don’t get a chance to see just how much he’s struggling to come to terms with more than just being adult but also following in his brothers footsteps. He’s young and is just coming into his own, figuring out what he wants to do with his life when he meets Skyler. And how they’ve met isn’t the norm, but what the heck is the norm in meeting people these days?

Skyler is dealing with her own issues. With the book being written in dual points of view, which yet again I’ll say is one of my FAVORITE THINGS EVER… it let me see just who these two characters were. Not sure it could have been written in a single POV, I think we’d miss out on just way too much. Skyler has so much she needs to figure out and while she’s older than Grey by a couple of years she’s dealing with growing pains along with family issues all while trying to find her footing in a life she never thought she’s end up in.

The two together are sweet and you get a great idea of just how much they push and pull each other throughout the beginnings of their fragile relationship, which is something that I really enjoyed while reading. They had so many questions and were insecure making them so much more likeable.

While I did love the story, almost as much as I loved Boomerang there was a couple of things I felt weren’t tied up and felt just off. One of these things was a pretty big key part of who Skyler was, so I was a tad confused there. I kept wondering about this one thing, that I can’t say since I don’t really like to give things away in my reviews. I think that’s the main point why I couldn’t give this a higher rating.

In the end, I loved it! Finally I had a sneak peek into Grey’s head and got a chance to see what makes him tick. Skyler was awesome for Grey’s journey and his story, as was Grey for Skyler’s. If you haven’t read this series, Go! Start! Now! Those looking for contemp titles get to jumping and order today! Enjoy!

Title: Exposed (Captive #2)
Author: Brighton Walsh
Publisher: St. Martin's Griffin, 256 Pages (July 21st, 2015)
From: the Publisher
Format: eARC
Add to: Goodreads
Order a copy: Amazon, Barnes and Noble, The Book Depository, Amazon UK

NOTE: This is a "New Adult" novel. Due to mature content this title is recommended for ages 17+

Check out my review for: Captive (Captive #1) By: Brighton Walsh

Synopsis: In this sexy, suspenseful New Adult novel, a young woman hiding from her criminal past is taken captive by her ex-boyfriend, the ultimate bad boy.

Evie is about to embark on the perfect life. Beautiful, poised, and engaged to a rising business star, she fits the part of trophy wife perfectly, except for one thing: her entire identity is a lie.

Five years ago she created a new identity for herself, but it all crashes back when something she witnessed years ago comes back to haunt her. Now she's in danger of losing more than her social status.

Determined to protect the careful life she's built for herself, Evie doesn't want anything to do with Riley, the criminal for hire who broke her heart years ago. But Riley has other ideas. He's never forgotten Evie, and to protect her, he steals her away. Hidden from the world, sparks begin to fly as old memories resurface and their passion reignites.

Review: 4 Stars - Exposed, is the second title and companion novel to author Brighton Walsh’s Captive series. It was a must read for me and I couldn’t want to find out more about Ghost’s younger brother Riley.

Brighton didn’t disappoint. The story was – as the synopsis states – suspenseful and (beyond) sexy. The brothers and their lives are interesting and that layer of the books alone will keep you reading at a fast and furious pace to learn just who they are and how they’ve become the people they are at the moment of the books.

And Riley’s changed a bit from the first book and the second. There’s a reason for that, his brother “Ghost” has changed and in turn their whole world was thrown up and into the air. They have lived a rough and crazy life that’s for sure and I had no clue where Riley’s story would take us.

He’s strong, cocky and confused by choices that were made by people he thought he knew and now years later he’s coming face to face with a past he thought was long gone. He’s struggling to come to terms with things. Evie has some things to face, none of which are easy and she’s one feisty, badass chick that’s for sure! And the two explode on the page in many, many more ways than one.

The story itself unfolds so easily and it’s down to Brightons writing and her characters. I just couldn’t get enough and hated to see BOTH books end.

And while this is a series it’s also a companion novel. Each book can be read as a standalone however since I really enjoyed both books and there is a bit of back story which would be helpful if you were aware of what happened in Captive, I’d suggest reading both books in order. It’s not needed, but trust me; you don’t want to miss out on these mysterious brothers!

Now, I loved the first book. Gave it a touch higher rating than this one and that’s because I felt a bit more emotions and love for Ghost and Madison and their story than Riley’s and Evie’s. I liked it, but there just something “more” for me in Captive. Feeling emotions is a large part of how I rate books and this one did have me feeling things, just was a bit lower key, otherwise I loved it!

In the end I love Brighton’s writing and her characters. This isn’t the first, or the fourth book I’ve read from her and it won’t be the last. She’s become an auto buy and a read asap favorite author for me, I can’t wait to see what she comes up with next!

About the Author:

Brighton Walsh spent nearly a decade as a professional photographer before deciding to take her storytelling in a different direction and reconnect with writing. She lives in the Midwest with her husband and two children.

Find Brighton Online:

Website | Twitter | Facebook | Goodreads

Title: The Heir (The Selection #4)
Author: Kiera Cass
Publisher: Harper Collins, 342 pages (May 6th 2015)
From: Paperback
Format: Waterstones
Add to: Goodreads
Order a copy: Amazon, Barnes and Noble, The Book Depository, Amazon UK

Synopsis: Kiera Cass's #1 New York Times bestselling Selection series has enchanted readers from the very first page. In this fourth romantic novel, follow Illea's royal family into a whole new Selection-and find out what happens after happily ever after.

Twenty years ago, America Singer entered the Selection and won Prince Maxon's heart. Now the time has come for Princess Eadlyn to hold a Selection of her own. Eadlyn doesn't expect her Selection to be anything like her parents' fairy-tale love story...but as the competition begins, she may discover that finding her own happily ever after isn't as impossible as she's always thought. A new generation of swoonworthy characters and captivating romance awaits in the fourth book of the Selection series!

Review: 4 Stars - This review contains spoilers for the earlier Selection books.

20 years ago there was a Selection to find Prince Maxon, the heir to the throne of Illea a wife. 3 books and 20 years on and we now join King Maxon, Queen America and their family.

Despite Maxon’s rule being better than his father’s and the abolition of the caste system which has always been in place in Illea, the country is still troubled. Trouble the need to stop before it gets too out of hand.

Although she’s heard about her parent’s Selection and their happily ever after, Princess Eadlyn doesn’t want romance; she’s not ready to settle down. She’s had everything she’s ever wanted in her life except one thing- freedom. From a young age and being the eldest of the 4 royal children, she’s been groomed to be the next monarch and trained in the ways of leadership. All Eadlyn would like is the chance to be herself for a little while.

When more trouble erupts in the country, King Maxon and Queen America ask Eadlyn to run a Selection. The aim is to calm the rebellion and bring a distraction while the king and his advisors work out what to do next.

The Selection occurs with some surprising entrants, meaning Eadlyn will have her work cut out for her as well as helping to advise her Father and trying to keep her privacy from strangers.

I don’t want to say too much about the main bulk of the book as there are events in the book that show Eadlyn’s true self, and how she will do anything to protect her family, despite it not always being what she wants.

At the end I was close to tears. I had a suspicion Kiera Cass might throw a curve ball into the plot. I just wasn’t expecting what happened. I’m eagerly anticipating the last book in the series.

I wasn’t as in love with the characters in this book as I have been with the previous books in the series.  I felt detached from Eadlyn. This is what her character is trying to do with the other characters in the book, so I assume that’s why I read it this way. She wants to protect herself and I don’t blame her for that. But at the same time she wants to keep her family and the citizens of Illea happy.

With the Selection boys, there are a few that stand out- Kile, Henri and even Erik (even though he’s not one of the Selected he holds a special place in my heart).

I would highly recommend this book, even though it didn’t grab me as much as the other 3 books in The Selection series. It’s nice to see how America and Maxon have grown and to see them have their happy ending.

For fans of Amy Ewing, Sarah J. Maas and Marissa Meyer.

Title: Relinquished
Author: K.A. Hunter
Publisher: 275 Pages (2015)
From: the Author
Format: eARC
Add to: Goodreads
Order a copy: Amazon, Amazon UK

NOTE: This is a Adult novel. Due to mature content this title is recommended for ages 17+

Synopsis: ✰✰✰ Adult, stand-alone, romantic suspense novel. ✰✰✰

Jules Donovan has been in and out of unsavory foster homes and repulsive motels her entire life. She’s known nothing but loss, abandonment, crime, and pain. Now that she's aged out of the system, she can’t remember ever having dreams for her future because she’s constantly fighting for daily survival.

When she meets the Riley brothers, there’s something about them that draws her in. She’s never let her guard down, but Dante and Holden make her feel valuable, like she actually matters. And for the first time in her life, she senses something she’s never experienced before—protection.

But can these mysterious brothers keep her safe from the dark monsters that lie in wait, ready for their final revenge? And how in the hell does older brother Dante know so much about her anyway?

Unbeknownst to her, things have been set in motion ever since she was ripped from her mother’s womb and, as each jagged piece of her life unfolds, she will begin to wonder, who’s really in charge of her fate?

**TRIGGER WARNING...this novel contains non-explicit scenes of abuse. There is strong language throughout. Relinquished is intended for mature readers**

Review: 4 Stars - Relinquished is an adult title that kept this reader on the edge of her seat with the twists and turns that author K.A. Hunter weaved throughout the story. If you’re looking for romance with some suspense and a plot that’s different then look no further.

Jules Donovan is a fighter. But she has to be with the circumstances she’s been forced into. From a young age she’s known nothing more than pain and fear yet she pushes forward to try to keep herself together and far away from the darkness of her past that’s always on the cusp of consuming her.

She has scars inside and out and doesn’t have anyone to trust or lean on when times get tough. She’s a survivor and keeps to herself.  It’s when she meets Dante and Holden – the Riley Brothers – that her life begins to change in ways she didn’t think she wanted or were possible.

These two brothers are close yet couldn’t be more different from the other. Dante is dark, quiet and mysterious. Holden is sweet, kind and gentle. Both intrigue her and keep her on her toes. Without giving too much away, this is NOT a love triangle. Since I know this tends to concern many readers you can rest assured that there isn’t one in this book.

One thing I liked about this novel was each of the three characters where unique, they have their own strengths and weaknesses making them more believable as “people”. The story is well written and I loved that the author was able to blindside me a few times while reading. The shocks that were revealed while reading made the story build until the pressure was so strong that I was bursting to find out what was happening. The great thing was the pressure started to build from the very first page and didn’t let up until the story had exploded off of the page.

I was looking for something different to read and this title came at just the right time. It was very entertaining and the writing was done extremely well. And I love a story that keeps me on my toes, which this one did time and time again. I quickly became invested in these characters and their lives. You can’t help becoming attached to them and in the end I was sad to say goodbye. BUT, it’s nice that this was a standalone title, which was another thing I was thankful for.  Sometimes it’s great to have the whole story told in one book.

I recommend this book for anyone who’s looking for everything that makes a book a great read. There’s a bit of something for everyone in this Adult title. I look forward to seeing what this author has in store for readers next. She can count me in to read it that’s for sure. Enjoy!

Title: For the Win (Gaming the System #4)
Author: Brenna Aubrey
Publisher: Silver Griffin Associates, (June 16th, 2015)
From: the Author
Format: eARC
Add to: Goodreads
Order a copy: Amazon, Barnes and Noble, The Book Depository, Amazon UK

NOTE: This is a "New Adult" novel. Due to mature content this title is recommended for ages 17+

Synopsis: Millionaire bad boy Jordan Fawkes has problems. Big problems.
That molten-hot intern he hooked up with at Comic-Con is now his assistant. No one can know they’re the stars of the cosplay sex tape that broke the Internet.

Business school hopeful April Weiss has drama. Big drama.
Working under the CFO of Draco Multimedia should be the opportunity of a lifetime for her, but Jordan Fawkes is the boss from Hell—a sexier-than-sin boss from Hell who holds all the cards for her future career.

And then there’s the small problem of a certain video…

**This novel can be read as a stand-alone**

Review: 4 Stars - For the Win might be the forth book in the Gaming Systems series, but it’s more of a companion novel featuring characters who were secondary in the first three books. And while this could be read as a standalone, future readers will get a better idea what’s happened to date and why these characters are on the road they are currently on.

Jordan is the numbers guy behind Draco Multimedia. His dream has been to take the company public. He’s been working hard to make his dream come true while helping his best friend Adam make his dream come true with the company they’ve both poured their heart and souls into since the beginning. And when his careful plans and hard work is threatened he’s out to make the person pay while trying to salvage everything he’s worked for. With the finish line oh so close and within his reach he’s battling more for his dream for the company. He’s battling to keep his feelings locked up tight after a painful past crushed him which he’s never forgotten.

And then there’s Ms. April Weiss, the bane of Jordan’s existence. She’s working alongside Jordan with the hopes of earning a recommendation to her dream school. When a bad decision goes horribly wrong for her, she’s working hard to try to control the damage.

Both of these characters are interesting the more you learn about them. They are both dealing with who they are, where they are going in their lives, where they want to be and issues they’ve carried with them that affect them from year to year.

There’s drama and angst, and serious issues which are current to this day and age. Along with characters who will keep you entertained as they work through their issues and try to deal with their pasts and a future that’s in question after a wild night at Comic-Con that could cost both Jordan and April more than they’ve ever imagined. There are also tons of steamy moments and emotions that’ll have your blood boiling one minute and your heart hurting the next.

This author without a doubt writes great characters and stories that keep me coming back for more! While I do love these books, there’s something a bit missing for me with this title. One main issue I was waiting to find out how everything would play out left me feeling a bit flat. Otherwise I’d give this a bit higher rating. I couldn’t wait to read Jordan’s story and I really wasn’t let down with his part of things within the Gaming System story, I think I’m even more so looking forward to the next book which is about Adams cousin William. And the cool thing there’s a bit of a surprise at the end of this title to give readers a taste of what’s to come! Excited doesn’t even come close to what I’m feeling for the next title to read about William!

In the end, I’m a fan of this series, these characters and this author. If you love gaming or just like strong characters with even stronger personalities and issues many people will be able to relate to, then you’ve found just the right series to dive into. I’ll be watching out for any and all info about Williams’s book and I can’t wait to get my hands on it!!

About the Author: 

Brenna Aubrey is an author of New Adult contemporary romance stories that center on geek culture. Her debut novel, AT ANY PRICE, releases in December, 2013.

She has always sought comfort in good books and the long, involved stories she weaves in her head. Brenna's favorite author is Jane Austen and favorite novel is PERSUASION.

Brenna is a city girl with a nature-lover's heart. She therefore finds herself out in green open spaces any chance she can get. A mommy to two little kids and teacher to many more older kids, she juggles schedules to find time to pursue her love of storycrafting.

She currently resides on the west coast with her husband, two children, two adorable golden retriever pups, two birds and some fish.

Find Brenna Online:

Website | Twitter | Facebook | Goodreads

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Title: Sweet Ache (Driven #6)
Author: K. Bromberg
Publisher: Signet: Select, 400 Pages (June 2nd, 2015)
Add to: Goodreads
Order here: Amazon, Barnes and Noble, The Book Depository, Amazon UK

NOTE: This is a "New Adult" novel. Due to mature content this title is recommended for ages 17+

Synopsis: The New York Times bestselling author of Slow Burn turns up the heat when a sexy bet turns into so much more…

Hawkin Play, the bad boy rock star with a good guy heart, has lived a lifetime of cleaning up after his twin brother’s mistakes. Hunter’s most recent screw-up could land Hawke in jail and risk the band’s future. Hawke agrees to guest lecture at a local college to stay in the judge’s good graces—and a bet with his bandmate to seduce his sexy teaching assistant is icing on the cake.

Quinlan Westin is harder to bed than Hawke imagined. She knows his type and is determined to avoid the rocker at all costs—even if their attraction runs deeper than simple lust.

Just as Hawke might finally be winning over the girl, his brother has other plans. When Hunter realizes his twin finally has a weakness, he’ll stop at nothing to take advantage…

Review: 4 Stars - Sweet Ache is the sixth book in author K. Brombergs Driven Series. This title follows a character we’ve met earlier on in the series – Racecar driver Colton Donovan’s college student sister Quinlan Westin. She’s been a bright spot in her brother’s life and now it’s her turn to take the spotlight in the series I’ve come to love.

Quin can hold her own and she does just that when it comes to bad boy rock start Hawkin Play. Assigned as his TA - when he’s forced to “teach” a seminar at a local college - the two have a rocky first meeting. Quin’s tough, driven and sassy, which I think she gets in part to her big brother and wow, can this female lead hold her own! She has a great head on her shoulders and I couldn’t wait to learn more about her and see how she’d handle herself in her own book. Bromberg didn’t let me down and I was thrilled to see what happened when these two flirts met face to face.

Hawkin is one part of the famous group Bent. He’s the lead singer and along with all the pressures being a celebrity brings he’s got a bit more on his plate than just the female fans throwing themselves at him. He’s got layer upon layer that with each turn of the page I had to wonder if the guy was ever going to get a break! He’s lucky to have just met his match when he takes on the lecture he’s hoping will save not only himself but the band and his twin brother Hunter from utter devastation.

Written in the two characters points of view I loved watching the two react to each other together and apart and the chemistry they have is off the charts! And as they try to navigate all the issues being thrown at them, choices and changes happening right before their eyes, it was an eye opening experience for this reader just as much as it was for the characters.

The author has done a pretty fantastic job in making these two characters and the secondary characters as well have more to them than meets the eye. And the story was highly entertaining with a bit of heartbreak thrown in throughout to give readers so much more than the usual love story. Bromberg has proven yet again that she’s a master for creating and delivering damaged characters with so many redeeming qualities that you never feel as if you’ll get enough.

And with Quin being Colton’s sister I was excited that he made a couple small appearances and there’s one scene between these two siblings that took my breath away. I reread it about 10 times because it was just THAT perfect. Honestly, I’ll NEVER look at a piece of paper the same way again.

As with all books in a series that you’ve come to love and authors who quickly become a favorite, you always are ready for more. And that’s how I am with the driven series and Mrs. Bromberg. She’s one of those authors that I’d read anything she writes so I’ll be excited to see what’s next – Hard Beat – the next book in the Drive Series out later this year. Also, I’m REALLY excited to be attending two signings with her in the next few weeks!!! Can’t wait! I highly recommend this series! Each book is amazingly well written and will leave a mark for a long time to come. Enjoy!

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