A Review for Be with Me (Wait for You #2) by J.Lynn

Posted by Donna
Release Date: January 13th, 2014
Finished Date: February 23rd, 2014

Publishers: Harper UK
Genre: New Adult
Source: For Review

Format: Paperback
Pages: 416

Buy: Amazon UK / Amazon US / The Book Depo

From the bestselling author of WAIT FOR YOU, prepare to be blown away by her next New Adult story of love, lust and longing

Did WAIT FOR YOU leave you gasping for more?

Did you leave one of the hundreds of online rave reviews for a book (and a man) that stole your heart?

Is Cam your new #bookboyfriend?

With a story linked to the bestselling WAIT FOR YOU, J Lynn’s second novel in her New Adult series is sure to set your heart racing again.

The Review: Be with Me is sweet, sexy and fast paced read that really pulls you in and tugs on your emotions. Not only is this a great read by one of my favourite authors, but it definitely leaves you craving for cupcakes – yes, you heard me, cupcakes. Chocolate, vanilla, strawberry…any different flavoured cupcakes….yum!

Teresa Hamilton has possibly just had her dreams of being a dancer crushed when she hurts her knee and realises she has no backup plan, if she finds out she can’t dance again. So she enrols in college where her brother Cam and his best friend Jase attend. The only problem is Teresa and Jase have a history, one that’s left Jase brushing Teresa off at every opportunity. Can Teresa start making new dreams but can she get the one guy she’s always wanted?

We all know Jennifer L. Armentrout can write a good book, but damn, I honestly believe this is her best NA book to date. Don’t get me wrong, I loved Wait for You but I loved Be with Me so much more. And I definitely believe that it comes down to the characters, because Teresa and Jase certainly didn’t have it easy. Their story was just so achingly beautiful. It wasn’t perfect because their lives were mixed up in so much hurt, but that’s okay, because together they really are the perfect couple.

Teresa was a very likable character; one that within a few chapters you could really sympathise with. She’s had so many hard times in her life and now her dreams of being a professional dancer is hanging by a thread. However, she still tries to be positive. She tries to make a plan B and I really admire her for that. Her relationship with Jase was complicated and for more reasons that one. Jase really does try and push Teresa away at every turn, and that’s because he’s hiding something – something, I didn’t see coming a mile away! I loved Jase though; I could see his reasoning’s but you could also see how much he cared for Teresa or Tess as he calls her. I love the two of them together; it was moving and really beautiful to read about their story. I loved that Teresa was willing to give Jase as many chances as he needed – not in a pathetic kind of way – but because she loved him that. And in the end, I only wanted happiness for them.

What I loved about the plot of this story was that there was other issues going on, leaving the story not always focusing on Tess and Jase’s relationship. We all know Tess’s past and her roommate was going through something similar. What I didn’t expect, that gave this story a bit of a thriller aspect with Erik. Even though I hated him, he gave the story that little bit extra spice and of course, he brought quite a few emotions too.

In all, Be with Me has to be one of my favourite NA reads this year, along with Samantha Young’s On Jamaica Street. I’m dying to know who book three will be about; I’m hoping Calla; Teresa’s friend at school that seems to have some secrets of her own hidden. Regardless of who the story will be about, you can bet I’ll be reading it!

Favourite Quote: “You know, I’ve tried staying away from you. I’ve tried ignoring how I feel about you, which isn’t how I should feel. But it’s like fighting a losing battle. And I don’t want to fight it anymore. I don’t want to ignore this.” – Jase

Thank you to Harper for giving me the opportunity to review this book.

A Review for Tangled (Tangled #1) by Emma Chase

Posted by Donna
Release Date: January 16th, 2014
Finished Date: February 13th, 2014

Publishers: The Hot Bed 
Genre: New Adult
Source: For Review

Format: Paperback
Pages: 256

Buy: Amazon UK / Amazon US / The Book Depo

In New York Times bestselling author Emma Chase's sizzling and hilarious debut novel, Drew Evans-gorgeous, arrogant, irreverent, and irresistibly charming-meets his match in new colleague Kate Brooks. Drew Evans makes multimillion dollar business deals and seduces New York's most beautiful women with just a smile. So why has he been shuttered in his apartment for seven days, miserable and depressed? He'll tell you he has the flu. But we all know that's not really true. Katherine Brooks is brilliant, beautiful and ambitious. When Kate's hired as the new associate at Drew's father's investment banking firm, every aspect of the dashing playboy's life is thrown into a tailspin. The professional competition she brings is unnerving, his attraction to her is distracting, his failure to entice her into his bed is exasperating. Tangled is not your mother's romance novel. It is an outrageous, passionate, witty narrative about a man who knows a lot about women…just not as much as he thinks. As he tells his story, Drew learns that the one thing he never wanted in life, is the only thing he can't live without.

The Review: Funny, sexy and charming, Tangled is a must read that will give you many laugh out loud moments!

Drew Evans is a playboy – he loves women and he’s not ashamed to admit it. Every weekend it’s all about finding someone new to ‘play’ with and this time Drew has his eyes on a hot brunette who seems to have no interest in Drew whatsoever. But the real joke is on Drew because the hot brunette – Kate is about to star in Drew’s life in more ways than one. Kate has just been employed by Drew’s father as the new associate for his firm, so not only does Drew have to keep his distance from his new employee – even though he can’t stop fantasizing about her, he also has to battle her for the next big client, and Kate likes winning just as much as Drew. Has Drew finally found his match in Kate or will he allow his past to play a role in his future?

Welcome to the world of Drew Evans ladies! Wow, what a ride this story was. From the get go, were thrown into Drew Evan’s head and boy, was it funny. Really, is this how guys actually behave and think? If so, I’m a little scared. LOL. It was actually like watching a movie play out in your head. I could just picture Drew talking to us ladies about his playboy life and then it’s like freeze frame – and he’s frozen the entire scene while he talks about something else. It’s kind of like the first season of Sex and the City where Carrie will be talking and then the whole scene freezes, and if you’ve watched that, then this is what it’s like with Drew – I loved it!

Drew is completely lovable – even though at times I wanted to hit him over the head. He’s arrogant, witty, smart, fun, sexy – everything! He doesn’t take no for an answer and he goes after exactly what he wants – he’s very determined and dedicated to his job too. And of course, he believes he knows women. Yes he treats them hot one minute and then cold the next, but that’s Drew. Once he meets Kate his whole world changes and I believe it’s a case of fate – he’s never found that one women that is completely and wholly perfect for him until Kate, and of course, she makes him work harder than ever to get what he wants. And Kate, I liked her. I think he matched Drew in every strength and made him come to realise his old life – before her – wasn’t worth it. He needs more. I really enjoyed their scenes together and of course, the sex was H.O.T.T hot!

Tangled is a book that didn’t disappoint me one bit, and I’m really glad I had the opportunity to read it. I look forward to reading more from Drew and Kate in the sequel Twisted!

Thank you to The Hot Bed for the opportunity to review this book! 

Waiting on Wednesday (#74)

 

"Waiting On" Wednesday is a weekly event, hosted by Jill at Breaking the Spine, that spotlights upcoming releases that we're eagerly anticipating. 

Jess's WoW

My Life With The Walter Boys

by Ali Novak

Release date: March 1st, 2014

Sixteen-year old Jackie Howard knows nothing about her new guardian Katherine Walter when she moves from New York to Colorado. After discovering that Katherine has twelve boys, Jackie fears that living in the Walter house isn't going to be easy. It's just icing on the cake that the boys look like Abercrombie models...

Adjusting to life with the Walter boys is not going to be easy, especially when two of them start to show an interest that definitely goes beyond brotherly.

Jess's thoughts: Donna has already read this one, and I want to read it so bad! It sounds like such a  good story. Ok...fine it's because they're described as Abercrombie models! It's out next week so I guess it;s Just in time for my birthday :)
I'm pretty sure that I love this cover a lot. A lot. 

Donna's WoW

Take Me On (Pushing the Limits #4)
by Katie McGarry
Release Date: May 20th, 2014

Acclaimed author Katie McGarry returns with the knockout new story of two high school seniors who are about to learn what winning really means

Champion kickboxer Haley swore she'd never set foot in the ring again after one tragic night. But then the guy she can't stop thinking about accepts a mixed martial arts fight in her honor. Suddenly, Haley has to train West Young. All attitude, West is everything Haley promised herself she'd stay away from. Yet he won't last five seconds in the ring without her help.

West is keeping a big secret from Haley. About who he really is. But helping her-fighting for her-is a shot at redemption. Especially since it's his fault his family is falling apart. He can't change the past, but maybe he can change Haley's future.

Hayley and West have agreed to keep their relationship strictly in the ring. But as an unexpected bond forms between them and attraction mocks their best intentions, they'll face their darkest fears and discover love is worth fighting for.

Donna's thoughts: Another Katie McGarry book - I can't freaking wait!

<What's your "waiting on" pick this week?

Want to participate? 
Grab the logo, post your own WoW entry on your blog, and leave your link at Breaking the Spine. 

Happy Reading!

A Review for Sin by Sharron Riddle

Posted by Melanie
Release Date: January 13th, 2014
Finished Date: February 15th, 2014

Publishers: Curiosity Quills Press
Genre: YA, Paranormal 
Source: For Review

Format: eARC
Pages: 274

Buy: Amazon UK / Amazon US 

My name is Sin. I killed a man in self-defense when I was sixteen. Not something a girl wants to brag about. My dad wanted to lock me up in the nut house, but Mom sent me packing to my great aunts in St. Charles, IL. They’re ancient druid priestesses, and they make me look like a pacifist. I’d barely unpacked before the aunts sent me to find the stolen hellhounds. Without the hounds to herd them to the underworld, the souls of the dead are flocking to the cities in murders of crows. If they’re still hanging around after three days, they’ll turn into flesh eating, brain feasting zombies. Van, an annoying but uber-hot Fey Prince, joins us in the hunt to find the hounds before the zombies overrun St. Charles and turn the cities into cemeteries.

The Review: I thought Sin was a great read, fun & action packed.
The blurb is accurate and I don’t feel I can add anything so straight onto my thoughts…
I loved Sin, she’s my kind of girl, she has a good sense of humour, she is not afraid to speak her mind or fight for what she believes in. She’s slightly volatile with her temper and finds it hard to trust but is willing to give her new home a try. She gets stuck straight into an investigation on arrival and she’s in for a sharp learning curve but it brings out some good qualities in her and helps us to understand the world along with her as she is educated on all things magical. I liked her secret, the big one that could have sent her over the edge and I liked how it tied in with the bigger storyline. There are two potential love interest and she’s drawn to both, I’m always unsure about the love triangles but it’s in the early stages so I’m willing to ride that for now but I wasn’t sure who to trust and even at the end I didn’t have a preference.
I liked the world within our world that is brought to life throughout the book and all of the magical beings we meet, it sets up a premise that could have great series potential. This book is filled with action & life threatening situations that would look great visually. I loved the undead idea that brought the zombies, it was different from any other zombie story I have read and really liked how that tied to Sin. I loved her secret ancestry, loving the world that she is now immersed in and definitely the guardian & protector she is bestowed with and the story behind that. The story is full of secrets & revelations interspersed with battling the undead, learning magic and a sprinkling of romance, there are a lot of secrets going on and Sin isn’t in on a lot of stuff until it becomes necessary, so I do feel that even though we get a few secrets that it still felt like an introduction and getting to know you book but…. the fact that a prophecy was brought into it makes me excited for further books, so now I’m really curious to see where it will all go. Great, fun read though! 

Essenced by Connie Smith is FREE!

To celebrate the release of the second book in the Divison Chronicles, author Connie L. Smith has made the first book, Essenced FREE on all major eBook sites between 24th Feb - 28th Feb. 

Connie is also planning a Twitter giveaway every day from 24th - 28th. So if you'd like a chance at winning some cool prizes, go follow Connie - @CLSmithbooks

Purchase for FREE:

 Amazon US 

Years ago, demons were forced out of the earth’s realm by a band of supernatural fighters, banished from the place and its people in the aftermath of a horrific war. It should’ve ended there – would’ve – if not for the final demon’s claw snagging on the open portal. What felt like victory became only a reprieve, the winning warriors understanding that the tear would spread, and the demons eventually would escape exile. It was only a matter of time, and a need for future defense – a question of genetics and essences, magic and power.

Now, centuries later, a new army must bind together – one of teenagers with inhuman potentials and abilities…


AJ went to bed Sunday night an average teenage girl, clumsy and athletically lacking. So when she wakes up Monday morning with super-strength, she does what any rational person would do: She goes into denial. When a smoking hot guy in a suit shows up, rambling about the end of the war and demons spilling through some kind of rift, she refuses to listen, telling herself he’s insane. Except weird things just won’t quit happening, and the guy keeps popping up in her life, trying to explain the changes suddenly happening within her. Is she crazy, or is this guy… not so crazy after all?

Want more from Connie L. Smith? 

Then check out the sequel; Emblazed - releasing 24th February 2014. 

After all the preparations, Nicholai’s warriors stand on the threshold of warfare, the demons entering the realm in battalions and the world unknowingly depending on the army’s success to continue intact. But the battle is only the beginning of deadly struggles, and the soldiers will soon realize how little they know, how many things are at stake, and how much they have to lose.

Love, hate, hope, despair, anguish, joy… The journey is a gauntlet of emotion and combat, threatening their resolve as much as their lives.

Will their training and ties be enough, or will the complications and the forthcoming evil forever cripple the world’s last hope of survival?

Goodreads Link; https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/18740673-emblazed

About the Author:
Connie L. Smith spends far too much time with her mind wandering in fictional places. She reads too much, likes to bake, and will be forever sad that she doesn’t have fairy wings. And that she can’t swing dance. When she isn’t reading or writing, there’s a good chance she’s goofing off with her amazing, wonderful, incredible, fabulous nieces and nephew, or listening to music that is severely outdated. She has her BA from Northern Kentucky University in Speech Communication and History (she doesn’t totally get the connection either) and likes to snap photos. Oh, and she likes apples a whole big bunch.         

A Review for Forbidden: Discover the Legend (Wolf Sirens #1) by Tina Smith

Posted by Melanie
Release Date: July 20th, 2012
Finished Date: February 5th, 2014

Publishers: OUTSKIRTS PRESS
Genre: YA, Paranormal 
Source: For Review

Format: Kindle
Pages: 380

Buy: Amazon UK / Amazon US 

The Mystical Bond, the Fatal Allure ... of Hunter & Prey

Misunderstood seventeen year old Lila Crain unwillingly moves to the foreboding town of Shade, prepared to face her punishment - Shade High. But she can't begin to anticipate the life-altering events that lie in wait for her. 

The dark and charismatic Reid has a wolfish grin and amber eyes that would make any girl blush and he has his sights set on the new girl in school. 
Reid's stunning friends - including icy top dog Sam - invite Lila into their clique. Suspicious, yet flattered by their attention she answers the intriguing call like a moth to a flame.

Thrillingly introduced to the local nightlife by the enigmatic group, Lila finally feels like she belongs. But her newly found friendships threaten to turn sour when she unwittingly develops feelings for the leader's off-limits boyfriend, Sky. 
Tensions rise further when a quirky local named Cresida warns Lila to stay away from the clique at all costs.

Undeterred, she is irresistibly drawn to uncover the truth behind their mysterious lifestyle.
Lila unwittingly starts off a chain of events that will forever alter fate for both hunter and hunted as she learns they have been waiting for her...

Inspired by the legend of the femme fatale goddess, Artemis, Wolf Sirens is a compelling gothic masterpiece of paranormal romance. 

Forbidden, Fever, Night Fall and the soon to be released Dusk in Shade - all continue the tale of Lila Crain, the heroine with the chip on her shoulder, on an epic paranormal journey in which forbidden love threatens to destroy the underworld.

The Review: 2.5 Flowers!

The synopsis says it perfectly as we head to the town of Shade to uncover some of its inhabitants’ secrets along with our leading lady – Lila Crain – now, Lila was just an ok character for me because she was slightly irritating at times but hey..which teenager isn’t? and she has a tendency to over analyse her thoughts and often dredges up the same dilemmas again and again making her a tough cookie to connect to and also making decisions which were so dumb that I could quite easily have smacked her….for instance, she decides to give her virginity to one boy who she just ‘likes’ because she wants to remain ‘in’ with him and therefore the ‘in crowd’ when she has feelings for someone else that she knows far outweigh any feelings she has for the de-flowerer….it was like, ok I’ll just do it cos I’m bored…NO! seriously, just no! and that did really put me off her character but I kept reading because I was still interested in her story and her need to fit into a new town & school. This girls homelife was just wrong, divorced, absent parents allowing her to bring herself up with practically no boundaries and no interest in her life, so she is prime fodder for the ‘in crowd’ at school who are led by queen B – Sam. Even though she has doubts about joining them, she quickly brushes her worries aside even though she has been warned by the mysterious Cressida and also shown evidence which she chooses to disbelieve. Everything seems hunky dory and life at Shade High is good with one exception, she has super strong feelings for Sam’s boyfriend Sky despite being involved with Reid who she likes but isn’t really into. She knows something isn’t right and her being brought into the clique is dubious but she brushes these doubts aside and accepts Reids explanations until one of them turns on her and she is then attacked, leading to the big reveal and we finally find out not just about the clique’s secret but also Cressidas’ and things finally start to get interesting. Lila then immerses herself in their lives, desperate to remain a part of things in any way that she can but then, they decide to cut her loose and she finds things out about herself that has some great potential.
I would say that this book interesting and just like Lila, the curiosity about Sam & her friends was what kept me reading. Obviously the title of the series will give you an idea of what we’re dealing with so the big reveal will come as no surprise although I did like the story of how they came about and how it ties into Artemis. I was more interested in Cressida than the others, she had my interest from the very start and wish she had been featured more in the story and definitely should have befriended Lila and spent more time with her. It was very much a ‘getting to know you’ book, we’re finding out about who’s who, how things are, who has hidden secrets and who is capable of what, topped off with a couple of threat scenarios and whilst I did like it, it felt flat because I felt that the danger throughout the book was quite weak, yes there are some secrets, lies, betrayals but I wanted more of an enemy, more danger, more threat and I felt it was all just a bit too juvenile considering who the threat was coming from and I still feel like I didn’t really know her end goal. I loved what changes happen to Lila in the latter part of the book though and what she finds out about herself, this is something that definitely interested me and could have some potential but it was too little, too late and definitely missed opportunities about teaming up with Cressida…. I’m curious about were things will go in a sequel but wouldn’t be in a hurry to read it.

A Review for Dead Silent (Poppy Sinclair #2) by Sharon Jones

Posted by Jess
Release Date: February 6th, 2014
Finished Date: February 2nd, 2014

Publishers: Orchard Books
Genre: Young Adult/Mystery/Suspense
Source: For Review

Format: eARC
Pages: 336

Buy: Amazon UK / The Book Depo

A snow angel etched in blood. An elite society. A secret dying to get out.
​
The second Poppy Sinclair Thriller.

When Poppy Sinclair and her boyfriend visit snowy Cambridge, she doesn't expect to discover the body of a student - arms outstretched in the act of smearing bloody angel wings on the chapel's floor.

Suddenly, Poppy is faced with the possibility that the one closest to her heart might be the one committing the most malicious of crimes.

Dodging porters and police, dreading what she might find, Poppy follows the clues left by a murderer bent on revenge...

Long-hidden secrets are chillingly revealed, an avenging angel seeks forgiveness and red-hot vengeance must be quelled in the amazing new Poppy Sinclair thriller.

Review: I absolutely loved Sharon's first book, so when I was informed that it was available on Netgalley early I was eager to get it and start it. 

Dead Silent totally didn't disappoint me, it was just as good as book one. We are back with Poppy who is in Cambridge with her boyfriend visiting the college and her father, when she and her boyfriend get caught up in sinister murders around the practically empty campus. 

This book, just like it's predecessor had me from page one and I just simply could not put it down! Sharon Jones has a real knack for mystery stories that will keep you guessing until the killer is finally revealed, I honestly thought it was someone else to begin with before the true murderer was revealed. Dead Silent is fast paced and full of edge of your seat moments that will leave you wanting more.

There is some real development in this one with Poppy and Michael, their relationship comes a long way in this book and certain aspects are handled just as they should be in a YA novel. Dead Silent is so full with tension, that you are left with yourself turning page after page.

Although it had a good ending, it did feel sort of rushed, and a little easy in the end once you pieced everything together, but overall not a bad ending to a mystery, the ends are tied up and the characters move on. 

If you are looking for a good YA mystery thriller then this is a good one, this or the first book in the series. It'll leave you wanting more, and I genuinely look forward to the next Poppy Sinclair mystery. 

It's a 4 star from me :)

Blog Tour for Masked (New World #2) by Janelle Stalder; Review

Posted by Melanie
Release Date: February 25th, 2014
Finished Date: February 13th, 2014

Publishers: Self Published
Genre: YA, Dystopian 
Source: For Review

Format: Kindle
Pages: Unknown

Buy: Amazon UK / Amazon US 

Hatred paralyzes life; love releases it.

New Berlin, 2040. Rebels prepare to fight against the New World Order, bent on bringing down the world’s greatest tyrant. One girl wanted nothing to do with it, content to keep her head down and make the best of this new world. That is, until she has no choice but to work with the rebels and infiltrate the NWO headquarters. Every moment she spends there puts her in danger, especially when one man, the second in command to the New World leader, continues to make his way into her every thought. She must stay focused and protect not just her mind and body, but also her heart. Will she be able to complete her task without being unmasked? Or will the one man standing in her way ruin it all?

The Review:  **SPOILER ALERT** 
**IF YOU HAVEN’T READ BOOK ONE THEN DO NOT READ THIS**

Masked is the second book in the New World series and this time we join Bridgette (Charlotte/Dinah/weapon X’s sister from book one) risking her life by entering the HQ of the New World Order under the guise of ‘weapon X’. Having seen her sister tied to a chair and beaten by their father and leader of the opposition, Bridge is made to go undercover to save her sisters life by completing a task that will supposedly bring down the regime. Once there she waits for more instructions but how will she fit into Charlottes’ life? The mask goes a long way to hide her appearance but what about everything else? How should she act? How should she talk? and just how on earth is she going to be able to remain this close to Roman Adamson? He brings out something in her, a connection, a want… will he be her downfall? Roman knows something has changed with Lottey but he can’t quite put his finger on it, she’s bringing out feelings he never used to have, making him feel things he swore he would never feel and making him want things he shouldn’t… he decides to stay away and focus on the big events coming up for the NWO, namely searching for the rebels and overseeing the arms shipment that will empower the army….if he can only stop thinking about her.
Elsewhere, Charlotte is determined to get Bridgette out of the HQ, so along with her boyfriend – former second in command to her father - she starts hatching a plan to save her sister but they’re going to need help and in these precarious times it’s doubtful whether they will get it but they must try…for Bridgette’s sake at least.

So, I loved this sequel, I’m loving everything about it and I’m loving the series, who would have thought I could get so involved with a dystopian book??
I was really pleased that the book focussed on Bridgette and Roman because they connected in book one and what chemistry they had! They sizzled around each other and I was desperate for them to get together so it was great to get their story. It’s no surprise that I love both characters – Bridgette blossomed in her new surroundings and found out some new things about herself. Roman took a chance on his heart which softened him and we got to know him a lot better and realised that he may not have been in his position, made to do bad things had circumstances been different and he was making the best out of a bad situation. The chemistry between them was amplified from book one and makes for some very charged moments between them, they try to fight it but love will conquer all, so get those fans out ladies, it’s about to get HOT!
The story line was brill! I loved the intensity of knowing Bridgette could be found out at any time, I loved that even though Roman didn’t know it was Bridgette under the mask that he was picking up on differences, be it her shape, feel, attitude, skills, everything… he knew something was up. I loved what she did to him, how she made him feel, the connection they shared and vice versa, even how uncomfortable he was thinking that the feelings were towards Lottey & I was waiting with baited breath for him to realise who it actually was. The romance and getting to know you part of the relationship was lovely and really got the heart pounding with the little moments they shared, desperate for the closeness so they could take it that one step further and loving the sweetness it brought to their harsh world.
I liked where the action part of the plot went, it was just as action packed as book one & you could never say that the plot relied on either just the romance or the action because they were both equally good and both keep you on the edge of your seat. It was all very exciting and I read it with caution wondering if & when the ***t would hit the fan but knowing it would bring some awesome action and it did! There are quite a few revelations throughout the book that make you see some characters in a different light and definitely blurs the lines of who we believe to be good or bad and I’m left very curious about a lot of things. I loved the introduction of the Archers (a new band of rebels that are independent from ‘The General’) I thought they were a very welcome addition to the story and brought something a little different to the table, they make me more excited for future books because I can see at least 3 new stories coming from this new band of rebels. I thought this book brought about a game changer too especially with the revelations & consequences of what happened and I’m really curious to see where it all goes next and of course hoping for a HEA for our next couple – Tyler & Missy … I can’t wait! 

About the Author:
Janelle Stalder was born and raised in Brampton, Ontario. At an early age she developed a love for literature. Her debut novel, Eden, was the first book in a series of four, released in September of 2011. The second book, Eden-West, was released in July of 2012, and the third book, Eden-South was released in March of 2013. The fourth book of the Eden Series, Eden-East, will be release at the end of 2013. She is a strong supporter of other independent authors, and loves to interact with her readers. When she's not writing, Janelle is at home with her husband, two children, Aiden and Elora, and her two furry children, Alice and Lily. She now resides in the small town in Ontario in her old, possibly haunted, century home.

Author Contact Information:

Facebook: Janelle Stalder / Twitter: @jmstalder / Website: www.janellestalder.com

Email: jmstalder@gmail.com 

Waiting on Wednesday (#73)

 

"Waiting On" Wednesday is a weekly event, hosted by Jill at Breaking the Spine, that spotlights upcoming releases that we're eagerly anticipating. 

Jess's WoW

Bad For You

by Abbi Glines

Release date: April 1st, 2014

Innocence was never meant for the addictive… 

Addiction was something Krit Corbin accepted as part of his nature a long time ago. He decided to embrace it and flip his finger at the rules. Women had always been the number one thing on his list of addictions. He couldn’t get enough. Being the lead singer in a rock band had only made access to his favorite addiction that much easier.

Being alone was the only thing Blythe Denton understood. The small town minister’s family that raised her hadn’t accepted her as their own. The minister’s wife had always made sure Blythe understood just how unworthy she was of love. When Blythe is sent away to college and given a chance to finally be free of living as an unwanted burden, she looks forward to having peace in her life. Being alone isn’t something that bothers her. She escapes reality in the stories she writes.

However, the ridiculously sexy tattooed guy who keeps throwing parties in the apartment above hers is driving her crazy. For starters, he doesn’t treat her like she would expect a guy with a different woman always hanging on his arm to treat someone as uninteresting as her. She looks nothing like the gorgeous women she sees parading in and out of his apartment, but for some strange reason he keeps showing up at her door.

During a party at his apartment, Krit’s new neighbor comes to the door with her long brown hair pulled up in a messy knot and a pair of glasses perched on her cute little nose. She wants him to turn down the music, but he convinces her to stay.

Krit Corbin may have just found his biggest addiction yet. And Blythe Denton realizes too late that she’s finally been claimed.

 

Jess's thoughts: More Abbi. Enough said.  (Ugh. Love her covers to this series. And I LOVE THIS ONE SO MUCH! Loook! )

Donna's WoW

The Queen of Zombie Hearts (White Rabbit Chronicles #3)
by Gena Showalter
Release Date: September 30th, 2014

I have a plan.

We'll either destroy them for good, or they'll destroy us.

Either way, only one of us is walking away.

In the stunning conclusion to the wildly popular White Rabbit Chronicles, Alice 'Ali' Bell thinks the worst is behind her. She's ready to take the next step with boyfriend Cole Holland, the leader of the zombie slayers; until Anima Industries, the agency controlling the zombies, launches a sneak attack, killing four of her friends. It's then she realizes that humans can be more dangerous than monsters; and the worst has only begun.

As the surviving slayers prepare for war, Ali discovers she, too, can control the zombies and she isn't the girl she thought she was. She's connected to the woman responsible for killing and turning Cole's mother. How can their relationship endure? As secrets come to light, and more slayers are taken or killed, Ali will fight harder than ever to bring down Anima even sacrificing her own life for those she loves.

Donna's thoughts: Dudes! This sounds FREAKING AWESOME! I loved the last two instalments and I'm dying for more. The plot of the series so EPIC! I can't wait!

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Happy Reading!

A Review for Fire & Flood (Fire & Flood #1) by Victoria Scott

Posted by Donna
Release Date: March 6th, 2014
Finished Date: February 16th, 2014

Publishers: Chicken House
Genre: Young Adult, Fantasy, Thriller
Source: For Review

Format: Paperback
Pages: 320

Buy: Amazon UK / Amazon US / The Book Depo

 A modern day thrill ride, where a teen girl and her animal companion must participate in a breath-taking race to save her brother's life—and her own.

Tella's brother is dying. He's got cancer, and Tella is helpless to save him. Or so she thought. 

When an invitation arrives for Tella to compete in the Brimstone Bleed, a deadly competition that will lead her through treacherous jungle and scorching desert, she doesn't think twice. Because the prize is a cure to any illness. 
But Tella will be facing more than just the elements.

The Review: Gripping, suspenseful and original, Fire & Flood is definitely a book to watch out for this year!

Tella is a sixteen-year-old girl whose older brother – Cody, is sick with a terminal illness. He’s not getting any better and all Tella can do is watch him fade away. When the opportunity arises for Tella to enter a race called that Brimstone Bleed, a race that could lead her to a once in a life time offer – a cure for Cody. Tella knows she has no alternative; she must enter even though she doesn’t know the rules or even if she believes it's real. But when she arrives at the destination picked by the makers, Tella knows that this race is real and she knows she needs to win.

Before I started Fire & Blood I was expecting was a dystopian kind of world, mainly because I hadn’t heard much about the book nor did I look into it before starting it. Imagine my surprise when I started reading and it’s actually a modern day setting. This actually threw me; I really found it a little mind-bogglingly that something like the Brimstone Bleed would exist in the modern day world. I found I needed answers that at that time couldn’t be answered, because not even Tella knew them. It was a case of waiting it out, which meant I needed to read – quicker. I was dying for some answers and when it’s revealed, it’s a very original storyline – one I don’t recall reading anything alike and I found myself falling in love with the whole world Victoria Scott created.
The Brimstone Bleed really is an intriguing race, even though it’s somewhat horrifying at times. The whole creation is scary; however there are some bright spots in the story like for example the Pandora’s – the creations that help each person who enters the race try to win. Some are scary but mostly they are absolutely fantastic creations and really, I want one for myself. Very original! 

Tella at the start of the story is a weak person, one a little self-centred if I’m honest. But she quickly changes as she heads in into the race and starts living the horrid experience, she becomes stronger and her thoughts quickly change – rather than thinking about shopping and her best friend – she soon starts seeing why she’s there all along; for her brother. She really starts to see what is at stake and how far people are willing to go to get what they want. Then there’s Guy. He’s a bit of a scary brut to start with but somehow, he manages to help Tella in some way or another from the moment they first meet. He's very closed off but soon he starts opening up and becomes a strong and lovable character, but one that still holds many secrets. We also meet a lot of other characters – Caroline, Harper, Jaxon, Dink and Ransom, the list can go on. They all bring something to the story along with their Pandora’s and it’s really fascinating to watch all these characters and the story line all come together.

And the ending, although somewhat frustrating because you’re left dying to know what happens next, it also leaves so many questions about what’s to come next. The race isn’t over – and it seems there’s more to this race than ever and I can’t wait to find out.

Book Blitz for Lost in Us by Layla Hagen; Excerpt + INT Giveaway

Lost in Us
by Layla Hagen
Publication date: February 17th, 2014
Genres: New Adult, Contemporary
Purchase: Amazon 

Serena has learned to live with her past, locking her secrets and nightmares deep inside her. But when her boyfriend of six years abruptly leaves her, she’s catapulted back into pain, nursing a broken heart. When indulging in mountains of chocolate doesn’t work, Serena decides the best way to deal with her shattered heart is to indulge in something else. A rebound . . .

The night she swaps her usual Sprite for tequila, she meets James. The encounter is breathtaking.
Electrifying.
And best not repeated.

James is a successful entrepreneur in Silicon Valley. A man who has amassed a fortune by taking risks. A man who has shunned commitment completely, and still does. He’s the exact opposite of Serena. But sometimes opposites attract. Sometimes they give in to burning passion. Sometimes opposites are perfect for each other. 

James is everything her damaged soul could want. His kisses are intoxicating, his touch out of this world. He makes her forget. He grants her peace from her pain. But as they grow closer, Serena discovers she isn’t the only one with a past. James carries the scars of a past much darker than hers. One that has left him damaged, hurt, and wary of love. A past that gives him the power to shatter her.

Now James and Serena must find a way to mend one another. Or risk losing each other forever.

Excerpt from Lost in Us

"Red suits you," a voice calls behind me. I'm suddenly very grateful for being squeezed in, because my knees seem to have turned to rubber.  But my relief only lasts for a few seconds, because the music starts and everyone around me disperses, moving to the dance floor. 

I don't fall. I can't move, either. 

When he finally comes into view, my breath is cut short. There is something about seeing his beautiful blue eyes behind a mask that makes every inch of my skin burn. 

So it wasn't the tequila last night. 

"Dance?" He extends his hand. 

"I can't dance." Out of the corner of my eye I see Sophie watching us, crestfallen. 

"That makes two of us," he says, though unlike me, he doesn't sound panicked in the slightest. I really can't dance. Especially not waltz. But he doesn't lower his hand, and instead of protesting further, I raise my hand and place it in his. As if in slow motion I see him putting his 

other arm around my waist, and pulling me so close to him that I feel his every breath against my skin. This doesn't help the burning sensation. At all. 

"You came," he says and his lips curve into last night’s same conceited smile.

"I make a habit of honoring my invitations," I say, surprised by how aggressive I sound. I bite my lip and look away, fixing my gaze on the highest point of the glass arch. 

"Did you and your friend arrive home safely last night?"

Small talk. Fantastic. 

"If safely includes Jess throwing up twice on the way home, then yes."

"Quite a party girl, your friend," he says appreciatively. 

"What makes you think I'm not one?" I regret the question instantly. Thinking that a former math whiz kid isn't the most hardcore party girl at Stanford is not an absurd conclusion to draw. But his answer takes me by complete surprise. 

"Having a steady boyfriend usually means you spend your free evenings and weekends … otherwise."

"You asked Dani to spy on me?" 

"Of course not," he says with fake affronting. "I just know how to get the info I need from her."

"What happened to old-fashioned questioning?" 

"It's old-fashioned," he answers with a smirk. "I like to consider myself modern."

"Make that lazy and sneaky." I finally unhitch my gaze from the ceiling and look him in the eyes again. They are so much darker than a few minutes ago.  

He tightens his grip on my waist. "Fine. Tell me three things about you."

I try to put on my most serious look. "I grew up in London and San Francisco, used to play volleyball in a minor league, and want to work in investment banking." Did he really think I'll make it easy for him?

"Let me rephrase," he smirks. "Tell me three things about you I won't find in your CV. Three dreams."

The next sentence rolls out of my mouth despite my firm resolution to torment him by not really telling him anything about me. Especially not the weird things.

"I want to taste every single recipe in Willy Wonka's chocolate factory, get myself kidnapped by elves and locked up in Rivendell, and attend the midnight release of the next book about the wizarding world that I know Rowling will write. If that last thing fails, I want to learn how to fly on a broom, at the very least."

He bursts into a cascade of laughter. But it's not in the slightest mocking or mean. It's warm and heartfelt. 

And loud. 

"Your turn," I say, in an attempt to stop him, because we are attracting less-than-friendly stares from the couples around us. "Stop laughing like a maniac and tell me three things about yourself. Three fears."

He laughs for a few more seconds before assuming a solemn face. 

"I hate snakes and always keep a light on when I sleep. And I suffer from chronic commitment phobia."

His words hit me like a whiplash. Amazing how lighthearted and playful he throws them at me. 

"So I've heard," I say, trying—and failing—to keep my voice steady. 

"I wanted to make sure you know it from me," he says in a soft voice. Yet for all the softness, it still feels like whiplash. 

"That's very considerate of you." 

Why do his words have this impact on me? Why do they have any impact at all? I guessed a while ago how things are. I wish we weren't dancing so I could run away. Put as much distance as possible between him and me. My wish is not far from being granted. Though I haven't listened to many waltzes in my life, I'm sure the orchestra is playing the ending tones right now. I try to distance myself from his intoxicating presence, but his grip on me is firmer than ever. 

"I saw how you were looking at me in that bar," he whispers with urgency. 

Crap, so Jess wasn't exaggerating. I do my best to put on the poker face she mimicked on our way home, then I remember I have a mask on anyway.

"Why did you invite me here?"

"Why did you come?" he asks, and there is a slight uneasiness in his voice. 

"Because you invited me," I answer as sardonically as possible. 

"I was curious," he says quietly. 

AUTHOR BIO

My name is Layla Hagen and I am a New Adult Contemporary Romance author.

I fell in love with books when I was nine years old, and my love affair with stories continues even now, many years later.

I write romantic stories and can’t wait to share them with the world.

And I drink coffee. Lots of it, in case the photo didn’t make it obvious enough 

Author Links:
http://laylahagen.com/
https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/7520984.Layla_Hagen
https://www.facebook.com/LaylaHagenBooks
https://twitter.com/laylahagen

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