A Review for Champion (Legend #3) by Marie Lu

Posted by Donna
Release Date:  November 5th, 2013
Finished Date: October 30th, 2013

Publishers: Penguin UK
Genre: YA, Dystopia, Romance
Source: For Review

Format: Paperback
Pages: 353

Buy: Amazon UK / Amazon US / The Book Depo

The explosive finale to Marie Lu’s New York Times bestselling LEGEND trilogy—perfect for fans of THE HUNGER GAMES and DIVERGENT!

He is a Legend.
She is a Prodigy.
Who will be Champion?

June and Day have sacrificed so much for the people of the Republic—and each other—and now their country is on the brink of a new existence. June is back in the good graces of the Republic, working within the government’s elite circles as Princeps Elect while Day has been assigned a high level military position. But neither could have predicted the circumstances that will reunite them once again. Just when a peace treaty is imminent, a plague outbreak causes panic in the Colonies, and war threatens the Republic’s border cities. This new strain of plague is deadlier than ever, and June is the only one who knows the key to her country’s defense. But saving the lives of thousands will mean asking the one she loves to give up everything he has. With heart-pounding action and suspense, Marie Lu’s bestselling trilogy draws to a stunning conclusion.

The Review: "You drive me insane, June." He murmurs against my hair. "You're the scariest, most clever, bravest person I know, and sometimes I can't catch my breath because I'm trying so hard to keep up. There will never be another like you. You realise that, don't you?" I tilt my face up to see him. His eyes reflect the faint lights from the JumboTrons, a rainbow of evening colours. "Billions of people will come and go in this world," he says softly, "but there will never be another like you."

Starting 8 months after Prodigy finished, we see June working as a Princeps Elect and learning the political side to the war, and then we see Day receiving a high level military position. June and Day haven't seen each other in months, but soon they are reunited when the Elector informs them that a new plague has broken out and the Republic are being blamed. The only way the Colonies will not start  another war with them, is if they come up with a cure, but the cure the Republic may have, may lie with Day's brother Eden. But will Day give up his brother so others may live?

I don't even know where to start telling you how much I completely adore this series, it's definitely one of my favourites and as a writer Marie Lu continues to deliver epic work. Champion was a book for that gave me so many conflicting feelings before I even started reading. I was dreading it because I was so nervous about how it would end, and of course I was excited because I couldn't wait to see how it ends - see the conflicting feelings? Well, let me tell you that Marie Lu held my heart in her hands from the moment I started reading, and she didn't let go until the end!

Marie Lu really did pull out the stops with Champion - if you like mind-blowing, non-stop action, then this is for you. She doesn't leave one dull moment, if it's not the action keeping you glued to this book then, it's your emotions pulling you in every different direction. The plot of the story increased a lot in Prodigy, and it only increases again in Champion. There's so many different factors in this book that had to all come together and I believe it was done so well. Marie Lu's imagination really has no limits - she really does have a creative mind.

June and Day have really grown as characters - they're independent, selfless and strong characters - ones that have the fate of the world on their shoulder and who constantly sacrifice their own happiness for the rest of the world. June and Day's voice work so well together during this series, that reading the dual point of view really was a pleasure to read. Their love for one another is truly touching, it's one that completely consumes you and leaves you a bundle of nerves. All the odds are against them as a couple - even more so when Day's illness was introduced in Prodigy - but Marie Lu doesn't leave her readers disappointed. She doesn't make their story easy, but it's one that's worth fighting for.

And ending, the ending that you all want to know about? Well, that ending left my heart completely and utterly bursting from the seams! Champion truly is a spectacular and stunning conclusion and it's one I won't be forgetting any time soon.

Waiting on Wednesday (#60)

 

"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

Nearly Gone

by Elle Cosimano 

Release date: March 25th, 2014

Bones meets Fringe in a big, dark, scary, brilliantly-plotted urban thriller that will leave you guessing until the very end.

Nearly Boswell knows how to keep secrets. Living in a DC trailer park, she knows better than to share anything that would make her a target with her classmates. Like her mother's job as an exotic dancer, her obsession with the personal ads, and especially the emotions she can taste when she brushes against someone's skin. But when a serial killer goes on a killing spree and starts attacking students, leaving cryptic ads in the newspaper that only Nearly can decipher, she confides in the one person she shouldn't trust: the new guy at school—a reformed bad boy working undercover for the police, doing surveillance. . . on her.

Nearly might be the one person who can put all the clues together, and if she doesn't figure it all out soon—she'll be next.

Jess's thoughts: This. Sounds. Awesome. I've not read anything by this author, but I am definitely excited to read this one! 

Donna's WoW

Raging Star (Dust Lands #3)
by Moira Young
Release Date: April 15th, 2013

Saba is ready to seize her destiny and defeat DeMalo and the Tonton...until she meets him and he confounds all her expectations with his seductive vision of a healed earth, a New Eden. DeMalo wants Saba to join him, in life and work, to create and build a healthy, stable, sustainable world…for the chosen few. The few who can pay.

Jack’s choice is clear: to fight DeMalo and try to stop New Eden. Still uncertain, her connection with DeMalo a secret, Saba commits herself to the fight. Joined by her brother, Lugh, anxious for the land in New Eden, Saba leads an inexperienced guerilla band against the powerfully charismatic DeMalo, in command of his settlers and the Tonton militia. What chance do they have? Saba must act. And be willing to pay the price.

Donna's thoughts: Love, love, LOVE this cover! And I can't wait for this finale. I'm hoping it's going to just as good as the previous, if not even better and I can't wait to dive back into Moira's writing! 

<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!

Blog Tour for First Bite (Dark Wolf #1) by Dani Harper; Review + INT Giveaway

Posted by Melanie
Release Date: October 15th, 2013
Finished Date: October 3rd, 2013

Publishers: HarperCollins
Genre: Adult, Paranormal, Romance
Source: For Review

Format: eARC
Pages: 300

Buy: Amazon UK / Amazon US / The Book Depo  

Geneva “Neva” Ross doesn’t want to die. But now that she’s been turned into a werewolf against her will, she’ll do anything to protect her family and friends…even if that means taking her own life.

After witnessing Neva’s leap from a high ledge, Travis Williamson—a Changeling with a dark past—uses his powers to save her life. He feels a connection to the strong-willed woman whose eyes flash that familiar Changeling green. While Neva is hospitalized, Travis risks everything to kidnap her, knowing the approaching full moon will put everyone in jeopardy.

Bickering constantly to hide their growing attraction, Travis and Neva run from the authorities…and from Neva’s sinister sire, Meredith de la Ronde. Meredith delights in creating new shape-shifters and compelling them to do her dark bidding; now Neva must join Meredith’s murderous wolf pack…or die.

Intensely suspenseful with deliciously sexy twists, this paranormal romance—the first in (the title of series)—intertwines sensual passion with an epic, thrilling battle between good and evil

The Review: She had been bitten, she could feel the pull of the full moon and her first change that would come with it & determined not to become the monster that they made her into…. She steps off the ledge….

Only she doesn’t die because some other pesky wolf saves her, not just any wolf either…. He’s one of them! A monster, a werewolf and as soon as she’s able, she will run from him too.

Travis Williamson is a changeling, born into the life but events from his past mean that he now a lone wolf. He survives day to day, never settling… until one day, his wolf takes over and determinedly takes him to a mountain ledge where he sees her fall. Having glimpsed the changeling green sheen in her eyes, he knows she won’t die but she needs help and for some reason, he feels compelled to help her. But by befriending Geneva – Neva- Ross in her hour of need, Travis is pulled into a deadly game of cat & mouse and uncovers a power hungry sire who demands that you join her pack or die! Can Neva & Travis stay clear of Meridith’s clutches or will their fate be the same as so many before them? And with Neva’s view on werewolves, will she ever see Travis as anything other than a monster?

I thought First Bite was a great introduction to the Dark Wolf series by Dani Harper. I liked the whole premise and the ‘changelings’ had a more magical feel than the usual werewolves we read about. I immediately connected with Neva’s character because from the get go she is in emotional turmoil, trying to commit suicide and obviously there was good reason so the empathy came straight away, it’s not often you read of a supernatural doing that or feeling like there was no alternative to the lifestyle but saying that, when you find out why she thinks that way, it does come across as logical. Obviously she survives and that brings Travis into her life and he brings some sparks - literally& figuratively – as they clash in a battle of wills. Travis is there to help, he knows what she’s about to go through and feels like he needs to help guide her but Neva uses Travis as a scapegoat for her anger over being turned against her will & let’s not forget, she views all werewolves as monsters. She knows it’s unreasonable but she needs to vent somehow and Travis is an easy target but as she realises that he isn’t like the others, she starts to warm to him, he starts to appreciate her and we get a nice bit of sizzle added to the story which was great! And I loved that there wolves voiced their approvals too.

The story gave a slightly different take on werewolves, focusing on a magical change rather than a physical process. I liked the set-up of a power hungry wolf seeking to build an army of ‘weres’ to do her bidding, I’m not going to say a lot about her because it’s part of the story but if you were caught & turned by her, you’d be in a no win situation and the fact that Neva is the only one to ever escape her clutches will tell you just how devious she is. I also liked having a female villain in this, they are quite underused and I liked what she was about, what she did and how she achieved that – her story is begging to be told and I really appreciated the insight into her, through her POV. I always like a good run & chase scenario and it provided some good scenes throughout the book, you could really feel the urgency as Neva& Travis tried to evade capture & I have to say - the dump truck scene would be awesome in a movie! I loved the way the ‘weres ‘seemed more magical and how magic was brought into the plot, I feel we only get a sneaky peak at how it could be used especially through Meridith and look forward to seeing how that will evolve as the books go on & I like how the ‘baddie’ wasn’t the only one with secrets. Another thing I liked about this is that a few of the Changelings & there wolves seemed to be separate inside the same person, they cause some inner turmoil between both selves, sometimes trying to dominate each other, it gives another added ‘something different’ to the usual were story and I loved which way it came across in the relationship between Neva& Travis.  

All in all though, this book was great, it was gritty & exciting & it was hot! A really good start to a new series brimming with potential & I can’t wait to see what happens next.

AUTHOR BIO: Dani Harper is a newspaper editor turned paranormal author. There isn’t anything she likes better than exploring the supernatural — unless it’s writing sizzling and suspenseful romance. Of course, all of her stories have at least one foot in the netherworld! Dani is the author of the Changeling series. CHANGELING MOON was chosen as a 2012 RITA Award Finalist in the Paranormal Romance Category by Romance Writers of America. TWO brand new paranormal romance series begin this year. The Grim Series kicks off on August 6, 2013 with STORM WARRIOR. The Dark Wolf series is slated to begin October 15 with FIRST BITE. 

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Book Blast for Knowing Vera by Rachelle Ayala + US Giveaway

Knowing Vera 
by Rachelle Ayala 
Release Date: September 6th, 2013

Genre: New Adult, Romance 

Buy: Amazon US 

Some secrets are best untold.

Vera Custodio has never fallen in love, though she has strong feelings for her friend and sometimes lover, Zach Spencer. Long-forgotten memories resurface when Vera discovers Zach’s mother was the woman her father supposedly murdered many years ago.

After losing his leg, former triathlete Zach Spencer reevaluates his life—and realizes he’s falling in love with Vera. When she ends their relationship, Zach is determined to prove his love and follows her to Australia in search of the killer.

Caught between a web of family secrets and a deranged adversary, Vera and Zach must depend on each other for survival. Love blossoms, but the truth explodes everything Vera knows about herself. Will she close her heart forever or risk it all for a shot at happily-ever-after?

Rachelle Ayala

Rachelle Ayala is the author of dramatic fiction crossing genres and boundaries featuring strong but flawed characters. She writes emotionally challenging stories and is not afraid of controversial topics. However, she is an optimist and laces her stories with romance and hope.

Rachelle Ayala has written four novels. Michal’s Window is a powerful and emotional journey as lived through the eyes of Princess Michal, King David’s first wife. Broken Build is a story of redemption and healing where a man learns to love and trust the woman who destroyed his life. Hidden Under Her Heart is a heartfelt love story mixed with controversy over difficult decisions.

Her latest is Knowing Vera , a steamy romantic suspense involving family secrets, disability, and an unsolved murder.

Twitter: https://twitter.com/AyalaRachelle
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RachelleAyalaWriter
Website: http://rachelleayala.me/

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A Review for Realm Walker (Realm Walker #1) by Kathleen Collins

Posted by Melanie 
Release Date: October 28th, 2013
Finished Date: September 23th, 2013

Publishers: Carina Press
Genre: Adult Paranormal
Source: For Review

Format: eARC
Pages: Unknown 

Buy: Amazon UK / Amazon US 

An estranged mate, a mangled body and a powerful demon who calls her by name…

As a Realm Walker for the Agency, Juliana Norris tracks deadly paranormal quarry using her unique ability to see magical signatures. She excels at her job, but her friends worry about her mysterious habit of dying in the line of duty without staying dead. That’s only the first of her secrets.

Most people don’t know Juliana became the mate of master vampire Thomas Kendrick before he abandoned her seven years ago. Most people don’t know the horrors she endured at the hands of the vampire he left in command. Most people don’t know her true parentage, or why a demon on a world-threatening rampage has taken a personal interest in her…

Even as Juliana pursues the demon, it goes after all she holds dear—including Thomas, who is back to claim her for his own. But if she can’t reconcile her past and learn to trust herself again, she will lose him forever.

The Review: Realm walker was book candy to me, the kind I devour and enjoy immensely.
Juliana was a great character, as a Realm Walker for a paranormal policing type agency you expect her to be who she is…a strong, kick ass female who lives for her job, she trusts few people and even those that she does aren’t privy to her secrets. One being that she is or rather was the mate of a master vampire who abandoned her seven years ago, yeah they knew she had feelings for him but no one guessed the depth of those feelings that got stomped on. No one could have guessed what that event would lead to and in turn how it moulded Juliana into the person she is today. So when he turns up out of the blue, demanding reconciliation – she ain’t having it! Even if he does evoke temptation within , she must resist, she must remember what his leaving meant for her and why she can never be dependent on him again. But, when her partner is possessed by a demon, running around with another possessed, killing people & baiting her …. She is forced to work with her mate Thomas to bring an end to the carnage. The thing is, the demon is fixated on her & it all becomes too personal when it starts targeting those closest to her and when it gets it’s hooks into Thomas, Juliana has some harsh decisions to make as everyones secrets start to reveal themselves.
So, I really enjoyed this book, if I had a choice of one genre to read forever – this would be that genre. I enjoy PNR/UF so much but it has to hit the spot with a blend of action, mystery & romance, even the pacing has to be right and this was all of that with a nice dose of secrets on the side and who doesn’t love those when they unravel? As I mentioned, Juliana was a great character, even though she was kick ass, she was still flawed & Thomas had made her emotionally vulnerable when he left plus a few other things happened to harden the outer shell. I like when a character has these sort of depths, I like to empathise with a character & feel for them which I certainly did for Juliana. I liked the relationship drama between her & Thomas, it was complicated but I appreciate a man/vamp who is willing to fight for his woman, he was very alpha male and I like that but I also liked that he had to learn that Juliana wasn’t the same person he left behind and that she can defend herself which goes against everything he wants to be for her. I would say that I wished there had been more time devoted to the romance, more interaction, more sexytime… basically more of Juliana & Thomas together. The storyline was good, I liked how it all played out… it was pretty violent, gruesome in some ways but I like that in this genre. I liked how the magic & demons were used in the plot, I liked that it wasn’t just another case for ‘the Agency’ and that it became personal to our leading lady and when all the dots are connected, it made the story even better. There are a good few secrets throughout this, some small & some big but always good and the pacing was great, always on the move, holding my interest until the very end. This was definitely an impressive start to the Realm Walker series and I will be looking out for the sequel for sure. 

Book Blitz for Destiny (Brightest Kind of Darkness #3) by P.T Michelle

Destiny (A Brightest Kind of Darkness #3)
by P.T Michelle
Release Date: October 15th, 2013

Genre: Young Adult, Paranormal, Romance

Buy:  Amazon US / B&N

When destiny is on the line, will love be enough to light the way?

In order to save Ethan, Nara gets pulled deeper into his dark world, where everything she thought she knew about Ethan and herself turns on its head.

Ethan and Nara turn up the heat with bone-melting seduction and heart-rending moments, but surprising revelations, lies, treachery, betrayal, and unimaginable evil will challenge their relationship and their future together.

As the stakes rise, encompassing more than just her relationship with Ethan, will Nara make the ultimate sacrifice? 

Excerpt from Destiny by P.T Michelle

Ethan’s warm hands cover mine, and he whispers in my ear, “It drives me nuts to see you with another guy, even if it’s just something as simple as riding together to play soccer. I know exactly what he’s thinking. I know, because I can’t help but want you more when I see you all sweaty and running your heart out.” He pauses to press his lips to my throat, murmuring, “Mmmm, salty and sweet.”

Tilting my head, I give him access to my neck. I absorb the feel of his hard frame behind me, holding me up and supporting me, even for a few seconds. This isn’t full on intimacy. At least I tell myself that as my body yields to his.

“I miss touching you so much.” His lips slide up my throat and his fingers fold tight around mine, locking our left hands against the cold glass. I swallow hard, my heart hammering when his other hand falls to my hip to press me closer.

Running hard has intensified Ethan’s appealing smell. Or maybe it’s hearing him say how much it bothers him to see me with someone else that amps my attraction. All I know is…I don’t notice the cold air or the thin layer of snow beneath our feet. His heat and intensity seduce me, making me want him so much my insides quiver and my nerves tingle with excitement.

I press my free hand to his jaw, enjoying the feel of his five o’clock shadow against my fingers. Ethan whispers my name and slides his hand up my shirt. My muscles flex as his fingertips trace slowly along my belly until they come to rest over my thrumming heart, and his thumb slides under my bra clasp. Skin to skin. Warmth melding into warmth. “My heart,” he rasps before kissing my jaw and pressing his fingers closer, locking me against him.

AUTHOR BIO:
P.T. Michelle is the author of the young adult series BRIGHTEST KIND OF DARKNESS. She keeps a spiral notepad with her at all times, even on her nightstand. When P.T. isn’t writing, she can usually be found reading or taking pictures of landscapes, sunsets and anything beautiful or odd in nature.

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Book Spotlight for Treasure Your Love by J.C Reed + INT Giveaway

Treasure Your Love (Surrender Your Love #3) 
by J.C Reed
Release Date: October 15th, 2013

Genre: Adult, Contemporary

Buy: Amazon UK / Amazon US 

Meeting Jett was like a drug. Dangerous. Addictive. And better forbidden. In his game, there’s a high price to be paid. But how much is too much?



Brooke Stewart, a realtor in New York, was never in love until she met the green eyed, sexy as sin, six foot two sex god, Jett. The man to whom she surrendered. The man who hurt her once only to conquer her heart again.



Sexy, handsome, and arrogant Jett Mayfield knows he has found his match. Brooke is like no other woman he’s ever met and he has every intention of keeping her in his bed.

Their future seems full of promise...until the past is catching up with them and dark secrets threaten to destroy their lives. Soon they realize that to love means to lose, and some choices are harder than others.

When everything comes crashing down, can mistakes be amended…or will he lose her forever?

A woman who surrendered to love.

A man who would do anything to protect her.

Two lives that are about to be tested…and the last secrets laid bare.



About this author:

J.C. Reed is the New York Times and USA Today bestselling author of SURRENDER YOUR LOVE. She writes steamy contemporary fiction with a touch of mystery. When she's not typing away on her keyboard, forgetting the world around her, she dreams of returning to the beautiful mountains of Wyoming. You can also find her chatting on Facebook with her readers or spending time with her two children.

To find out about Jessica's work, future releases, competitions and great giveaways visit her. 

Author links:



http://jcreedauthor.blogspot.com


http://twitter.com/jcreedauthor


http://www.facebook.com/pages/JC-Reed/295864860535849

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A Review for Grave Mercy by Robin LaFevers

Posted by Donna
Release Date: April 6th, 2012
Finished Date: October 20th, 2013

Publishers: Audio Go
Genre: YA Historical, Fantasy
Source: For Review

Format: Audiobook
Time: 11 hours and 51 minutes

Buy: Amazon UK / Amazon US / AudioGo

Why be the sheep, when you can be the wolf?

Seventeen-year-old Ismae escapes from the brutality of an arranged marriage into the sanctuary of the convent of St. Mortain, where the sisters still serve the gods of old. Here she learns that the god of Death Himself has blessed her with dangerous gifts—and a violent destiny. If she chooses to stay at the convent, she will be trained as an assassin and serve as a handmaiden to Death. To claim her new life, she must destroy the lives of others.

Ismae’s most important assignment takes her straight into the high court of Brittany—where she finds herself woefully under prepared—not only for the deadly games of intrigue and treason, but for the impossible choices she must make. For how can she deliver Death’s vengeance upon a target who, against her will, has stolen her heart?

The Review: "Whenever you are ready, or if you never are, my heart is yours, until Death do us part. Whatever that may mean when consorting with one of Death’s handmaidens.”

Grave Mercy was my first audio book that I received for review, and I have to admit I was a little bit worried by receiving it for review that it would affect my listening experience, however that was totally not the case. I love audio books and I love reviewing books, so combining the two really worked for me. Grave Mercy had been on my radar for some time however; it’s always been one of them books that I’ve never got around too. I’ve heard so many great things about this book and I’m pleased to say it lived up to its expectations – if anything more because it’s definitely the best audio book I’ve ever listened too.

 

The story starts with a young Ismae being rescued by convent of St. Mortain after her father forced her into a brutal arranged marriage. It is at the convent that Ismae learns that she has been blessed with gifts that are dangerous and violent, and it is her destiny to take down the people who are betraying the high court of Brittany. But once there, Ismae isn’t prepared for the games and mystery that everyone seems to be playing, and most of all, she isn’t prepared for Duval – the one person who has captured her heart ....that she potentially has to kill.

 

As soon as I started listening to Grave Mercy I was captivated and intrigued, there’s just something about it that draws you in and leaves you wanting more of this marvellous story. I thought Caroline Ramsay as the narrator did an amazing job, not only did she give off Ismae’s voice but, she had so many more different accents that I thought she did very well. She got the tones just right to give you the listeners the right feelings and reactions.

 

The plot of the story was evenly paced with enough mystery and excitement to keep you entertained. The story was heavily politically based, however that’s to be expected with the plot being set in 1485, but at no point was it overwhelming or confusing. It was easy to follow along and had such a great back story.

 

Ismae was a fantastic lead and a great hand maiden of death. Even during her first outings she did make errors but, she quickly corrected them.  She was feisty and although she didn’t always feel comfortable in her role....like when she had to try and seduce someone, she always tried to make the best of it and work with her heart. She gave  everything she had into being a hand maiden because the convent saved her from a life that she would have hated, and because she gives everything, she has she becomes a better person. It’s not really until she meets Gavriel Duval that she finally starts to care about other people....other than the ones she met at the convent. Duval opens her up to so many possibilities ,with love and friendship on top of that list. I adored Duval. He comes across cold and mean to start with but as he works closely with Ismae, something changes in him....and her.  Their relationship is one that doesn't need to be discussed......it's just there. It's one that is a slow burning one, full of anticipation, love, and hope and when something does finally happen, it feels right. I prefer stories where the romance is at the front of the story, but for some reason it wasn't needed in this one. Ismae and Duval's story was a very lovable and touching one.

 

So it's safe to say Robin LaFevers definitely won me over with Grave Mercy, it hit all the right spots and I'm eagerly wanting more. I can't wait until I get my hands on Dark Triumph. 

Blog Tour for Panic (Rook & Ronin #3) by JA Huss; Review + INT Giveaway

Posted by Donna
Release Date: October 24th, 2013
Finished Date: October 8th, 2013

Publishers: Science Future Press
Genre: New Adult, Romance
Source: For Review

Format: eARC
Pages: Unknown

Buy: Amazon UK / Amazon US

Rook is chasing her dream—film school and a chance at a life beyond the one she ran from six months ago. But before she can become the girl she wants to be, she must deal with the girl she left behind.

Ronin is also chasing his dream—a family of his own and a life away from erotic modeling. And he too, has a past he’s trying to forget. A past that makes Rook question everything about their life together.

Lies, secrets, and shocking truths will rock the foundation Rook and Ronin have built. Can they put the past behind them and move forward together? Or is this just another too good to be true relationship that will crash and burn in the end?

The Review: "I'm falling for you, Rook. I hope you know that." 

J.A Huss is back with the third and final book in the Rook and Ronin series, and I was really expecting big things from this. I was dying to see how the author would close Rook and Ronin’s story and she really did it well!

Rook’s journey has never been easy, until she meet Ronin and then she finally started living her life the way she wanted. Ronin has helped her become the person she is today, one who finally has a lot of options for herself, however with her past finally catching up with her, she realises she finally needs to put it to rest forever. But how do you let go of a past that is as hard as Rook’s?

I’m so sad to leave Rook and Ronin behind! But I'm glad they got an ending they both deserved. Both of their journey's weren't easy, there was a lot of hard time but then some happy times, and in the end, finding each other gave them the peace to move on with the all troubles in the past. Rook, as a character, I believe was very strong - even through out her hard times, she always tried to take control and be a better person. She was a vulnerable teenager who was taken advantage of and I believe she handled things the best she ever could. And Ronin what a patient guy he was. He knew Rook was the love of his life and he really is dedicated to her. What I love their relationship was how willing Ronin was to give Rook as much time as she needed to get over her issues. He didn't push her into doing anything she didn't want. I loved that! Ronin was kind of like a perfect boyfriend! 

What I enjoyed the most from this book was the ending. I was thrilled we finally got some answers and it was set up perfectly. Rook, Ronin, Spencer and Ford all work so well together, despite the bad blood between some of them, but they're a group of people you could rely on if they were your friends. Everything was wrapped up nicely I believe...until Ford's little epilogue....(amazing by the way) and now I'm excited that we will get FORD'S STORY!! Woohoo! There's just something about Ford that I love. Maybe it's because he's dark and dangerous, there's some major issues behind the surface with Ford and I can't wait to unravel them all. 

In all, Panic was a great read and a great addition to the Rook and Ronin series! I for one, want more of JA Huss's writing and I'll be eagerly awaiting news on Ford's book. 

AUTHOR BIO: J. A. Huss likes to write new adult books that make you think and keep you guessing. Her favorite genre to read is space opera, but since practically no one reads those books, she writes new adult science fiction, paranormal romance, contemporary romance, urban fantasy, and books about Junco (who refuses to be saddled with a label). 

She has an undergraduate degree in horses, (yes, really–Thank you, Colorado State University) and a master’s degree in forensic toxicology from the University of Florida. She used to have a job driving around Colorado doing pretty much nothing but shooting the breeze with farmers, but now she just writes, runs the New Adult Addiction and Clean Teen Reads Book Blogs, and runs an online science classroom for homeschoolers.
Author Links:

Website / Goodreads / Facebook / Twitter

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Waiting on Wednesday (#59)

 

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

Donna's WoW

Carnal Secrets (The Phoenix Pack #3)
by Suzanne Wright
Release Date: February 11th, 2014

A pack Alpha and his estranged, true mate wrestle with painful secrets, ruthless enemies, and their own irresistible attraction, in the sexy third book of the Phoenix Pack series.

Half-shifter Shaya Critchley may hold a submissive role in her pack, but she’s done taking orders. After her Alpha wolf mate refused to claim her—but committed to interfering in her life—she took off. Now she hides from him, posing as a human in a town full of anti-shifter extremist groups. She thinks he’ll never find her again, and that suits her just fine. But she’s wrong.

Nick Axton can barely control his feelings for Shaya, but he could never claim her—not if he truly cares for her. The degenerative brain condition he keeps secret would ultimately leave her with a burden rather than a mate. But when Shaya runs away, Nick can’t bear the thought of never seeing her again. After tracking her down, he discovers Shaya’s feisty and passionate side in the process…a side he’d never seen before.

Under the menacing gazes of territorial local packs and violent human extremists, Nick vows to finally claim the spirited Shaya…and despite her initial resistance, Shaya just might find his fiery determination to be the ultimate aphrodisiac.

Donna's thoughts: Eek! I'm so excited for this book...I just know it's going to be a tear jerker, but either way, I need a HEA for these two characters....EXCITED!!

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Happy Reading!

A Review for Wake & Lullaby (Watersong #1 & 2) by Amanda Hocking

Posted by Melanie 
Release Date: August 7th, 2012
Finished Date: October 7th, 2013

Publishers: Tor 
Genre: YA Paranormal, Romance
Source: For Review

Format: Paperback
Pages: 356

Buy: Amazon UK / Amazon US / The Book Depo

Gemma Fisher seems to have it all—she’s carefree, pretty, and falling in love with Alex, the boy next door.  He’s always been just a friend, but this summer they’ve taken their relationship to the next level, and now she’s falling harder for him every day.  But Gemma doesn’t know that her ordinary life is about to change forever.
Penn, Lexi and Thea are strangers in town for the summer—and they’ve been watching her.  Three sisters with mysterious powers, they invite Gemma to join their exclusive circle, and it changes her in ways she never imagined.  Suddenly she’s stronger, faster, and more beautiful than ever. But her new powers come with a terrifying price.  And as she uncovers the truth, she’s is forced to choose between staying with those she loves—or entering a new world brimming with dark hungers and unimaginable secrets.

The Review: 3.5 flowers! 

Wake was a likable read and a good introduction to the ‘Watersong’ series.
I’m not going to go over the description again because I think it pretty much covers everything I would say anyway so on with my thoughts….
Wake felt like a coming of age story that was made more intriguing by a plot involving mysterious strangers, unsolved murders and first love with just a splash of paranormal. We have two main characters - sisters Gemma & Harper – and we get both POV’s throughout the book. I thought both characters were very likeable in different ways.. I liked Gemma for her carefree ways, someone who was driven & determined and not afraid to take a risk whereas Harper was more grounded and took a more responsible roll, you will find out why during the book and it is understandable when you find out why they are that way which does help the reader connect to the characters, especially Harper for me, as an older sister myself it’s easy to connect with her maternal side towards her sister. It was nice reading about how their relationship was & how they viewed each other. I really enjoyed that they both got a bit of romance, first loves for the pair of them really but whilst Gemma’s was more innocent & straight forward, Harper’s - not so much but I liked that, it totally fit with her up tight, bossy nature and I thought Daniel was perfect for her just as the boy next door – Alex – was perfect for Gemma. You can tell that the strength & basis of both relationships are going to become a major factor in the series.
The storyline was very intriguing, when you have a trio of strangers causing a stir around town & a murder investigation underway at the same time, it isn’t hard to connect the dots but it’s the discoveries made along the way that keep your attention and turning the pages waiting for the big reveal and that just grows when Gemma is brought into the situation in a big way, giving the book that paranormal element. I think the less I say about the plot, the better because a lot of it hinges on what is found out during the story but as I already stated, this is a good read, definitely a page turner and so easy to read, it was very intriguing and even though we got big reveals at the end, it does leave you wanting more.. I think you definitely have to be in this for the whole series though because there is a lot left ‘in the air’ and you are not going to get any real conclusion from this one book, it felt a lot like a taster of bigger things to come, so it will keep you reading and with that, I’m off to read the sequel Lullaby ;) 

Posted by Melanie
Release Date: December 6th, 2012
Finished Date: October 8th, 2013

Publishers: Tor
Genre: YA Paranormal, Romance
Source: For Review

Format: Paperback 
Pages: 292

Buy: Amazon UK / Amazon US / The Book Depo

Beautiful but deadly, their song won’t let her rest
Gemma had to disappear with Penn, Lexi and Thea after a night of incredible violence on the island. She can still barely come to terms with her new affinity with the ocean – and the siren powers that go with it. Now she’s been transformed, Gemma has no choice but to leave all she loves behind. She swears she won’t lose her humanity, but the call of the sea is maddening and compulsive.
Harper won’t give up on her missing sister. The search draws her closer than she’d like to bohemian Daniel, but she could really use his help. They’d almost given up, until a small news item tells of a horrific murder in a nearby beach town, and Harper thinks she’s found the deadly group. But can Gemma’s curse be reversed – and what if she doesn’t want to come home?

The Review: 3.5 flowers!

**SPOILERS FOR BOOK ONE**

Lullaby was an equally enjoyable read as book 1 Wake and we pick up where we left off. Gemma has accepted her fate as a siren and has joined Penn, Lexi & Thea as they leave Capri & the murder investigation behind. Gemma doesn’t really want to go but promised the sirens so that they wouldn’t harm Harper, Daniel or her boyfriend Alex. Harper is left behind to explain Gemma’s disappearance to everyone, needless to say, her Dad is devastated and so is their Mother who barely has a grasp on her own life. So, Harper, Alex and Daniel become determined to find Gemma and bring her home….Regardless of the fact that they will be inciting the wrath of a trio of murderous sirens.
So I enjoyed this, both of the girls have been separated so the pov’s are in different areas. Gemma is struggling with her new identity, she’s been forced to be what she is and doesn’t want to become a monster by murdering people to survive, so she tries to deny the way her body feels, starving it of the sea that calls to her and resisting the need to feed. She’s still pretty much in the dark about a lot of things about being a siren but has help from the most unlikely source. Meanwhile, Harper has thrown herself into finding Gemma to bring her home so she doesn’t have to go it alone, she won’t give up & neither will Alex. I like Harper, I like that she is determined and driven, it’s sort of like a swap of traits for the girls in the second book as Harper becomes focussed whilst Gemma loses hope, I like that their connection as sisters is strong and that there is determination not to just sit and accept things. I like where Harper’s relationship with Daniel seems to be heading, she is hard work and I really liked how Daniel is approaching that, he’s is the only one who seems to see that she needs looking after too.
The storyline is a good progression albeit slow, these two books have shown that there is only about 2 reveals per book and they come pretty much at the end. Don’t get me wrong, it was still intriguing; they aren’t boring because we are getting character development in between and discoveries are made just not at the pace I like, it’s a plodder and it shouldn’t take a full book to discover that there may be hope for Gemma. I said in the last books review that you are going to have to be in this for the whole series or you will never get a conclusion and I’m definitely reiterating that. Each book has left me with more questions than answers but it has always left me curious and I think that’s what keeps me reading because they are so easy to read and the characters are very likable, so is the storyline but I just want more action, more often. I will still read the rest of the series because as I said, it really does keep you reading with curiosity , I want to know how ‘love’ is going to affect things, I want to know what’s going on with Nathalie (their mother) and how she will play into this, obviously I want more of the Sirens, do they have to be that way? Have they tried to change things? If there’s hope…. What is it? Hopefully book 3 will enlighten me.