{Review} The Winner's Curse (The Winner's Trilogy #1) by Marie Rutkoski

Posted by Melanie
Release Date: July 3rd, 2014
Finished Date: September 4th, 2014

Publishers: Bloomsbury
Genre: YA Fantasty
Source: For Review
Format: Paperback

Pages: 368

Buy: Amazon UK / Amazon US / The Book Depo

Winning what you want may cost you everything you love.

As a general’s daughter in a vast empire that revels in war and enslaves those it conquers, seventeen-year-old Kestrel has two choices: she can join the military or get married. But Kestrel has other intentions. One day, she is startled to find a kindred spirit in a young slave up for auction.

Arin’s eyes seem to defy everything and everyone. Following her instinct, Kestrel buys him—with unexpected consequences. It’s not long before she has to hide her growing love for Arin. But he, too, has a secret, and Kestrel quickly learns that the price she paid for a fellow human is much higher than she ever could have imagined. 

Set in a richly imagined new world, The Winner’s Curse by Marie Rutkoski is a story of deadly games where everything is at stake, and the gamble is whether you will keep your head or lose your heart.

The Review: I’m probably in the minority of people who didn’t love this book because it has a lot of high ratings but for me – it didn’t blow me away. I liked it for the most part but the first 60% or so was not fun for me, it dragged and it was boring – yeah, I get the whole world building part and the setting up of the relationships etc but it moved so slowly and like an historical book instead of a fantasy and the last 40% is the only reason I’m giving this 3.5*s and not 2.5.
I liked the premise of the book, I like the idea that a whole nation of people were conquered and forced into slavery because you know that you are going to get an uprising and that is what kept me reading. I found that for all Kestrel was seen to have a privileged life, she too was sort of oppressed with her choices of who or what she could be – military career or marriage aren’t very good choices. She came across as very aloof and spoiled but we could also see that she had a sympathetic side too. I liked the way she and Arin connected, it wasn’t a love at first sight thing but she felt some sort of pull to him which spurred her on to buy him and as the story progresses they draw ever closer but neither will admit what they feel because they are enemies. When Arin’s secret is revealed I would have thought that Kestrel could have seen his intentions for what they were and what he tries to do for her but again, she is indoctrinated to think and behave in a certain way.
As I said, I liked the premise and that it was screaming that an uprising was on the cards but it was a long time coming. Saying that, I didn’t mind the getting there, I just wish it had been more exciting and less of a slow build. The way they lived was very militant and was all about how they had conquered and enslaved these people, it was sad to read about the people enslaved in their own former homes and made to obey the people who took everything from them – of course you are going to get rebellion, I’m surprised they waited so long. Once that rebellion kicks off then the story became a lot more interesting to me, I liked how it came about, I liked the battles, the strategy that was used and ultimately what conclusion it came to. I loved that Kestrel finally came through for the greater good and I could feel that change in her and I’m curious as to what will happen next. I only wished the pacing and action had been more consistent throughout the book to keep me interested from the start, I understand the build up but it has to grip me and at times this felt like a chore to read but hopefully now all that ‘getting to know you and your world’ is out of the way we will get more of the good stuff in the sequel.

3.5 flowers! 

Thank you to Bloomsbury UK for giving me the opportunity to review this book in exchange for an honest review. 

{Feature} Waiting on Wednesday (#88)

 

"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

The Ruby Circle (Bloodlines #6)
by Richelle Mead
Release Date: February 10th, 2015

The epic conclusion to Richelle Mead's New York Times bestselling Bloodlines series is finally here...

Sydney Sage is an Alchemist, one of a group of humans who dabble in magic and serve to bridge the worlds of humans and vampires. They protect vampire secrets—and human lives.

After their secret romance is exposed, Sydney and Adrian find themselves facing the wrath of both the Alchemists and the Moroi in this electrifying conclusion to Richelle Mead’s New York Times bestselling Bloodlines series. When the life of someone they both love is put on the line, Sydney risks everything to hunt down a deadly former nemesis. Meanwhile, Adrian becomes enmeshed in a puzzle that could hold the key to a shocking secret about spirit magic, a secret that could shake the entire Moroi world.

Jess's thoughts: "More Adrian, but also the final chapter of Adrian. Of course I'm excited for this! This cover is gorgeous too" 

Donna's WoW

Breaker (Ondine Quartet #4)
by Emma Raveling
Release Date: TBC 

War. Prophecy. Freedom.
She fought for herself.
She fought for friendship and love.
Now, Kendra Irisavie fights for the survival of her world.

War rages on, leaving no one untouched. Destruction rips through elemental communities and terror flourishes in its wake. Suspicion soars, order fractures, and loyalties crumble despite Kendra’s desperate attempts to protect everyone she holds dear.

When an organized Aquidae army launches a series of merciless assaults, Kendra and her friends set out to end the bloodshed once and for all. With the fate of elementals hanging in balance, the Shadow and sondaleur hunt each other down in a brutal match of cunning and will.

Kendra has trained for this her entire life. But in a ravaged world where trust is scarce and no life is sacred, she soon realizes her battle may be against an invincible enemy and that her darkest days lie ahead.

Twists and turns shape her harrowing odyssey, leading to a stunning climax that challenges everything she believes in.
Torn between destiny and autonomy, Kendra must finally decide whether the cost of freedom is too high.

Heartbreaking decisions, turbulent alliances, and shattering revelations collide in Breaker, the explosive conclusion to the Ondine Quartet.

Donna's thoughts: The end is near and it's going to be an exciting but I'm guessing emotional too. I simply can't wait to see how this series ends. Self published author Emma Raveling has done an amazing job with it so far so I know she won't disappoint! 

<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!

{Review} Fading Light (Shadow Born #2) by Angela Dennis

Posted by Donna
Release Date: September 23rd, 2014
Finished Date: August 9th, 2014

Publishers: Samhain Publishing
Genre: Urban Fantasy
Source: For Review
Format: eARC

Pages: 279

Buy: Amazon UK / Amazon US 

"Everyone has a breaking point."

"Shadow Born, Book 2"

Her hundred-year penance lifted, Shadow Bearer Brenna Baudouin returns to the Earthly plane with her partner, Gray Warlow, to keep the peace between humans and supernatural creatures and to prevent another apocalyptic war from happening.

The attraction between them is nearing a critical point, but their checkered history has left Brenna unable to trust either her heart or her instincts.

It s chaotic business as usual until humans begin turning to statues of dust. There is no explanation, no sign of magical foul play or a biological toxin. The humans are convinced it s the work of a deviant supernatural faction, twisting the knife in the already tense relationship between their species. Brenna and Gray agree the deaths have a former comrade-turned-rogue stamped all over them.

In a race against time, they enlist the help of both friend and foe to save the human race and stop the impending civil war. Along the way, they are forced to come to terms with their past and decide, once and for all, whether they will come together or fall apart.

Warning: Contains a heroine who knows her weapons but not her own heart, an outbreak of supernatural proportions, copious bloodletting, and a race to save an endangered species humans. All tied up in a tight bow of sexual tension. "

The Review: Fading Light is the brilliant sequel to Shadows of Fate and second in the Shadow Born series.
After the conclusion of book one we find that some time has passed, Brenna’s punishment has been lifted meaning she and Gray could return to their homeland anytime but because of what has been unleashed on Earth and that the Humans have no chance of fighting the supernatural – they chose to stay and help prevent another war. Brenna is still coming to terms with the revelations that were thrust upon her in the latter part of the last book and it does nothing for her trust issues. When humans start turning into statues of ash at an alarming rate, it’s up to Brenna & Gray to find out what is going on and prevent it from becoming more widespread but they will be blindsided by what they discover and the race is on to protect Earth from a formidable foe hellbent on domination. As they scramble to build a defence, Brenna & Gray will not only put their lives on the line but their hearts.
As I said, this was a brilliant sequel with great progression in both the plot and relationship status.
Relationship wise - Brenna had a lot to take in about who some people really are and that has made her lose her trust in those who deceived her - which included Gray and her boss Seraph – and for someone who is very familiar with betrayal, it’s a trust that she didn’t give freely. I liked the fact that she held back from Gray and didn’t just jump into the relationship because that was how things were, she wanted to see that he meant the things he said, that she could trust him, that he wanted her for the right reasons and not out of obligation. For her it was like starting from scratch, building a newer relationship, developing her feelings and making sure they were right which is admirable of a character in this type of book. Gray frustrated me somewhat with his pressure on her, he needed to be more understanding of who she was now and what had happened in her history that moulded her into that, she had every right to be cautious.
Storyline wise – We are aware of who the bad guy is from book one, he was not beat and he is back stronger than ever with some new friends in tow along with his demon allies. The world is still at risk because he has found a way to hurt the humans again and a possible pandemic is on their hands. He is well aware of Brenna & Gray and what they’re capable of so is a very calculating, playing the game to perfection and seems to have all of the cards in his hand. Our Hero & heroine are in for some major reveals that they will not see coming leading them all to suffer betrayals, loss and many life threatening situations. There is no let up in the action and battles making this another thrilling read that I can’t get enough off, I love the Urban Fantasy genre, especially when it’s as well done and easy to read as this – it’s all action, all of the time, no filler just a great story with a great Hero & heroine at the centre whose romance gives you just enough sweetness to offset the violent world they live in and I’m definitely looking out for more from this author. 

Thank you to Angela Dennis & Samhain Publishing for giving me the opportunity to review this book in exchange for an honest review. 

{Review} Black Ice by Becca Fitzpatrick

Posted by Donna
Release Date: October 7th, 2014
Finished Date: July 7th, 2014

Publishers: Simon & Schuster  
Genre: YA Thriller 
Source: For Review
Format: ARC

Pages: 400

Buy: Amazon UK / Amazon US / The Book Depo

Sometimes danger is hard to see... until it’s too late. 

Britt Pfeiffer has trained to backpack the Teton Range, but she isn't prepared when her ex-boyfriend, who still haunts her every thought, wants to join her. Before Britt can explore her feelings for Calvin, an unexpected blizzard forces her to seek shelter in a remote cabin, accepting the hospitality of its two very handsome occupants—but these men are fugitives, and they take her hostage. 

In exchange for her life, Britt agrees to guide the men off the mountain. As they set off, Britt knows she must stay alive long enough for Calvin to find her. The task is made even more complicated when Britt finds chilling evidence of a series of murders that have taken place there... and in uncovering this, she may become the killer’s next target. 

But nothing is as it seems in the mountains, and everyone is keeping secrets, including Mason, one of her kidnappers. His kindness is confusing Britt. Is he an enemy? Or an ally? 

BLACK ICE is New York Times bestselling author Becca Fitzpatrick’s riveting romantic thriller set against the treacherous backdrop of the mountains of Wyoming. Falling in love should never be this dangerous…

The Review: Upon hearing Becca Fitzpatrick’s was releasing a new book titled Black Ice I was absolutely ecstatic. I adore her Hush, Hush series so getting more of her work was fantastic and I simply couldn’t wait. Now I read Black Ice a good month ago and I have to say while I enjoyed it at the time, I’m disappointed that it’s not a story that really left an impression on me, and here’s why.

Britt Pfeiffer has been training to do one final backpack to Trenton Range with her best friend Korbie before she heads off to college. What Britt doesn’t expect is for her ex-boyfriend who is her best-friends brother, to want to join the adventure too. But no sooner than Britt sets out for the journey, a blizzard forces her and her friend to seek shelter in the only cabin they can find in the freak weather. However, the cabin is occupied by two guys, but something’s not right and Britt suddenly finds herself being taken hostage and being forced to help the guys off the mountain in exchange for her life. As she helps, Britt finds evidence of a murder which suddenly puts her life in even more danger. Can Britt save herself but more importantly, can she stop her sudden feelings for one of her captors when he could possibly be the killer himself?

Black Ice was and I’ll put it simply, an okay read. It didn’t think it had the same appeal as the Hush, Hush series nor did it have the same spark, but it was worth a read if you’re a fan of the author. I enjoyed the idea of the story, I enjoyed how the story develops and I appreciate the effort the author has put into the story but for me, everything was so long winded and slow that it stop me from enjoying the story to its fullest potential. As a YA Thriller, and admittedly I haven’t read many this was definitely the weaker story I’ve read. As mentioned the story seems to plod along with the main character thinking of many different ways to get away or trying to outsmart the bad guys. In all though, there wasn’t a whole lot of action. 

Britt was an okay character. She definitely had her moments where she went from lovable to likable within a few seconds. I definitely felt as though she spoke before she thought and some of things she said were yes a little childish, but then she’s quickly redeem herself only to repeat the whole process over again. I enjoyed the relationship between Britt and Mason, although it was a little unrealistic but for some reason I found myself rooting for them. I honestly didn’t believe anything good could come out of the experience that Britt has, but I was wrong and I thought in the end Becca did an awesome job tying up Britt’s ending with Mason. 

In all, I know there seems to be quite a few negative points to the story but I’m glad I read Black Ice. I definitely think it’s worth a read even though it might not turn out to be a favourite story. Would I read it again? Probably not, but as I said, if you’re a fan of Becca’s then yes, read it. 

Thank you to Simon and Schuster for giving me the opportunity to review this book in exchange for an honest review. 

{Feature} Showcase Sunday (#58)

Showcase Sunday is a new weekly meme hosted by Vicky @ Books Biscuits and Tea. We will now be taking part in Showcase Sunday instead of In My Mailbox. If you'd like to join see HERE for more details.

For Review:

One More Chance (Rosemary Beach #8) by Abbi Glines

Sharing You (Sharing You #1) by Molly McAdams

The Memory Keepers by Natasha Ngan

The Witch of Salt and Storm by Kendall Kulper

Famous in Love by Rebecca Serle

Bought:

Sins & Needles (The Artists Trilogy #1) by Karina Halle

A Little Too Far (A Little Too Far #1) by Lisa Desrochers 

Landry Park by Bethany Hagen

Gifted:

The Book of Broken Hearts by Sarah Ockler

Pulled Under by Michelle Dalton

Dualed (Dualed #1) by Elsie Chapman

Open Road Summer by Emery Lord

The Kiss of Deception by by Mary E. Pearson

eBooks for Review: 

Love and Other Theories by Alexis Bass

The Orphan Queen (The Orphan Queen #1) by Jodi Meadows

No Place to Fall by Jaye Robin Brown

My Summer Roommate by Bridie Hall 

eBooks Bought/Free

My Forever (The Infinite Love Series #1) by Kira Adams

Off the Record (Record #1) by K.A. Linde

The Trouble with Flying (The Trouble Series #1) by Rachel Morgan

Thank you to all the amazing publishers for another awesome week and thank you to Natalie, Melanie and Misty for my awesome birthday books! 

 

{Review} On Sudden Hill by Linda Sarah and Benji Davies

Posted by Donna
Release Date: 28th August, 2014
Finished Date: 23rd August, 2014

Publishers: Simon and Schuster
Genre: Children's picture book 
Ages: 3-6 years
Source: For Review
Format: Paperback

Pages: 32

Buy: Amazon UK / Amazon US / The Book Depo

Birt and Etho are best friends. Together they play on Sudden Hill, making marvellous contraptions out of cardboard boxes. But then a new boy, Shu, wants to join in too. Etho is happy to welcome him. Birt isn't so sure. Eaten up with jealousy, he goes home and refuses to come out to play. Until Etho and Shu come to his house with the most marvellous cardboard contraption so far...A compelling story about accepting someone new, from the Benji Davies, the bestselling illustrator of The Storm Whale.

The Review: Birt and Etho are best friends. They play together every day on Sudden Hill, making adventures out of cardboard boxes, but one day when the new boy Shu joins them Birt and Etho's friendship changes because Birt doesn't want anyone new to join. With Etho welcoming Shu, his friendship with Birt is pushed aside when Birt refuses to play with them. But Etho and Shu have a plan to get Birt to come and play.

On Sudden Hill is a wonderful short story about friendship and learning to share with others. I love stories that have realistic meanings behind them because it's always great to share that with children. In this case, I read the story with my daughter and she quickly caught on to the problems that were to be appearing in the story. She knew that all the characters had to play together and I enjoyed watching her catch on so quickly. I think what appealed so much about this story was that it wasn't just written like a normal story but more of a poem. It was definitely something different to read with my daughter and it's something we both really enjoyed. 

In all, On Sudden Hill is a great story that will teach your children the meaning of true friendship and as well as introducing them to something a little different. 

Thank you to  for giving me the opportunity to review this book in exchange for an honest review.

{Review} For the Love of Mercy (Bluegrass Country #2) by Leta Gail Doerr

Posted by Jess
Release Date: July 24th, 2014
Finished Date: August 15th, 2014

Publishers: Self Published
Genre: New Adult, Romance, Contemporary 
Source: For Review
Format: eBook

Pages: 171

Buy: Amazon UK / Amazon US

The only son of wealthy parents, Tyson "Jax" Ridgeton never wanted for anything, until he learns a hidden truth: adopted at the age of three, the mental images of an older sister he once passed off as fragmented dreams are real. 

Armed only with a faded photo of his lost sibling, Jax lands in Brushville, Kentucky where he meets local waitress Mercy Lynn Callaway. 

Mercy's unflinching optimism annoys Jax, but the curves of her body and her unwavering willingness to help his cause won't let him go. 

Together, they delve into Jax's past. But as unearthed secrets grow more and more dangerous, Jax makes an unexpected discovery: he'll sacrifice everything for the love of Mercy. 

The Review: I was pretty excited to receive this book for review as I really enjoyed the first one when I read it (For the Love of Big Orange). The things that I love most about these types of books is that they always ooze that Southern charm, and I'm a sucker for all things Southern when it comes to the U.S. 

We meet Jax first of all, he's pretty spoiled, and soon learns he has a sister somewhere. He heads out to Kentucky in search of her, and he ends up finding Mercy-Lynn; and then everything he didn't know he wanted. Mercy-Lynn is southern girl to the heart, and she's optimistic about everything even though she's had a pretty shitty life. Her and Jax find their way together, and with each others help they prove to be a powerful combination. 

This book pretty much had me from the first page and I actually couldn't put it down. You really feel yourself get immersed into the world of Brushville, Kentucky and you simply sit and enjoy every moment. From the accents, to the diners, to the small towns, to the big farms. It's all there, and it's so well written that you are captivated.

I decided this was a 4 star, I dropped a star, mostly for the reason that I wanted something much bigger to come out of the ending, but it all felt a little anti-climatic. Overall For the Love of Mercy was not a bad book, in fact it was pretty good; and I most definitely look forward to reading book 3 in the series.

Thanks to author Leta Gail Doerr for providing a copy in exchange for an honest review.

{Review} Heir of Fire (Throne of Glass #3) by Sarah J. Maas

Posted by Melanie
Release Date: September 11th, 2014
Finished Date: August 17th, 2014

Publishers: Bloomsbury UK
Genre: YA Fantasy
Source: For Review
Format: eARC

Pages: 585

Buy: Amazon UK / Amazon US / The Book Depo

Lost and broken, Celaena Sardothien’s only thought is to avenge the savage death of her dearest friend: as the King of Adarlan’s Assassin, she is bound to serve this tyrant, but he will pay for what he did. Any hope Celaena has of destroying the king lies in answers to be found in Wendlyn. Sacrificing his future, Chaol, the Captain of the King’s Guard, has sent Celaena there to protect her, but her darkest demons lay in that same place. If she can overcome them, she will be Adarlan’s biggest threat – and his own toughest enemy. 

While Celaena learns of her true destiny, and the eyes of Erilea are on Wendlyn, a brutal and beastly force is preparing to take to the skies. Will Celaena find the strength not only to win her own battles, but to fight a war that could pit her loyalties to her own people against those she has grown to love?

The Review: Heir of Fire is the stunning third book in the Throne of Glass series and like its predecessors – it was awesome!
This book felt like a game changer as Celaena takes on a voyage of true self discovery. She is a different person in this, rather broken and feeling like she has failed all of those people who believed in her. Nehemia’s sacrifice has opened up a lot of wounds and it seems like she can’t get past them. She sacrifices everything in the hopes that someone will have answers in Wendlyn on how to stop the King and his dark magic but what she finds is something different. She is forced to train, to embrace her Fae side, to prove that she is worthy of the knowledge she is trying to obtain – and because we’re talking about Celaena here – she will do it the hard way. We are introduced to Rowan, a fae prince under the rule of Maeve, the fae Queen and he is forced to see to Celaenas training – with not so great results – as they both clash. During this training they uncover some deadly secrets as the enemy seems to have followed Celaena with its own agenda bringing new and even more deadly foes in its wake leading to a massive battle that they just might not win.
Elsewhere, Chaol starts investigating in Adarlan in an effort not only to keep his charge Dorian safe but also Celaena – even if she is potentially their biggest threat. What he now knows about the king is something he isn’t comfortable with because of the threat it poses to Dorian and whilst Chaol has no love for the king, his fealty will forever be with the Prince – even if they aren’t the best of friends right now. What Chaol uncovers will really start to challenge his beliefs and I liked that he was open minded enough to try and take in the truth, that Celeana had opened his eyes and his heart to fight for what is right, even if he doesn’t know what that is yet. Dorian wasn’t in this as much but when we did see him, he was trying to quell his magic so that no one would find out and it’s also how he finds love. It was so gratifying to see him move onto someone following his feelings for Celaena, something sweet and untainted that gave him some hope. One thing for certain is that Celaena has certainly opened all of their eyes making them challenge everything and they ALL now know the true enemy.
As if that isn’t enough, we also have a new clan to meet and this clan may not be on our favourite characters team, in fact they are brutal, deadly and stone cold. They are also in the pocket of someone who can give them what they had lost long ago – which would make them a very formidable opponent indeed.
So, there are a lot of things going on in this book, told from at least 5 points of view that give a great & varied view into all that is going on across the kingdoms. The enemies seem to be piling up and the new ones introduced throughout are very scary indeed, if they can make our assassin quake then you know they’re trouble. The world is opened up a lot more too and we’re off to new shores, meeting new people, seeing new kinds of magic as well as keeping up with happenings in Adarlan through Chaol & Dorian. I mentioned that this feels like a game changer because you can feel the players taking their sides, swaying in direction or making solid alliances. We find that Celaena already has a following through rumours & hearsay about her true identity, that she is alive but it remains to be seen whether she will embrace that destiny and maybe that’s what the training is all about. There’s not so much in the romance department this time as only Dorian gets a little action and I did miss the three – Celaena, Chaol & Dorian – together, investigating the castle, legends & magic but I totally understand why the separation needed to happen and I’m seriously looking forward to the reunion. This was again filled with action, mystery, battles, magic, betrayal, acceptance and all of the things you would expect from this absolutely fantastic fantasy series and that ending? It’s a shocker! – I couldn’t recommend this series enough – simply stunning! 

Thank you to  Bloomsbury UK for giving me the opportunity to review this book in exchange for an honest review. 

{Feature} Waiting on Wednesday (#87)

 

"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

Beware the Wild
by Natalie C Parker
Release Date: October 21st, 2014

It's an oppressively hot and sticky morning in June when Sterling and her brother, Phin, have an argument that compels him to run into the town swamp -- the one that strikes fear in all the residents of Sticks, Louisiana. Phin doesn't return. Instead, a girl named Lenora May climbs out, and now Sterling is the only person in Sticks who remembers her brother ever existed.

Sterling needs to figure out what the swamp's done with her beloved brother and how Lenora May is connected to his disappearance -- and loner boy Heath Durham might be the only one who can help her. 

This debut novel is full of atmosphere, twists and turns, and a swoon-worthy romance.

Jess's thoughts: Intriguing. Stunning cover. I very much look forward to eventually getting around to reading this!

Donna's WoW

The Ruby Circle (Bloodlines #6)
by Richelle Mead
Release Date: February 10th, 2015 

The epic conclusion to Richelle Mead's New York Times bestselling Bloodlines series is finally here...

Sydney Sage is an Alchemist, one of a group of humans who dabble in magic and serve to bridge the worlds of humans and vampires. They protect vampire secrets—and human lives.

After their secret romance is exposed, Sydney and Adrian find themselves facing the wrath of both the Alchemists and the Moroi in this electrifying conclusion to Richelle Mead’s New York Times bestselling Bloodlines series. When the life of someone they both love is put on the line, Sydney risks everything to hunt down a deadly former nemesis. Meanwhile, Adrian becomes enmeshed in a puzzle that could hold the key to a shocking secret about spirit magic, a secret that could shake the entire Moroi world.

Donna's thoughts: I'm sad The Ruby Circle is going to be the last book! But I can't 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!

{Book Blitz + Giveaway} Phobic (The Forbidden Doors #1) by Cortney Pearson

Phobic by Cortney Pearson 
(The Forbidden Doors #1) 
Publication date: September 8th 2014
Genres: Horror, Young Adult

Buy: Amazon US / Barnes and Noble

Fifteen-year-old Piper Crenshaw knows her house is strange. It’s never needed repairs since it was built in the 1800s, and the lights flicker in response to things she says. As if those things aren’t creepy enough, it’s also the place where her mother committed murder.

To prove she’s not afraid of where she lives, Piper opens a forbidden door, which hides a staircase that leads to the ceiling. That’s when the flashbacks of the original residents from 1875 start, including a love affair between two young servants. Each vision pulls Piper deeper into not only their story, but also her house. Piper confides in her best friend, Todd, whom she's gradually falling for, but even he doesn't believe her. At least, not until her house gets axed during a prank, and the act injures Piper instead, cutting a gash the size of Texas into her stomach.

Piper realizes her house isn’t haunted—it’s alive. To sever her link to it, she must unravel the clues in the flashbacks and uncover the truth about her mother’s crime, before she becomes part of her house for good.

One of my favorite things about PHOBIC is the flashbacks to the past that Piper has. Halfway through, she begins seeing the original residents of her house from back in 1875, and she also witnesses a tragic love story between two of the servants. Here’s a swoony excerpt:
“We may not like it,” Ada says, “but two servants in love can do very little where their master is concerned.”
Thomas faces her again. This time, a twinkle lays in his blue eyes, and a smile quirks at the corner of his mouth. “You do love me.” 
Silence pulses between them. Ada never breaks from his gaze. I’m warm from my knee-knocking kiss with Todd, but at the look they share, the temperature goes up a few more degrees.
“Heart and soul,” she says through her teeth, “and may I burn for the admission.”

However, not all the flashbacks are lovey-dovey. In fact, they’re pretty dark and add to the book’s creep factor. And while writing them, I needed insults from the 1800s. I found this website, along with this list. 
Not that I’m huge into insulting people (really, I’m not!) but some of these struck me as just plain funny. (Thou beslubbering, beef-witted barnacle!) 

Oh, the things writers find while researching their books!

AUTHOR BIO
Cortney Pearson is a book nerd who studied literature at BYU-Idaho, a music nerd who plays clarinet in her local community orchestra, and a writing nerd who creates stories for young adults. She lives with her husband and three sons in a small Idaho farm town.

Author links:
http://www.cortneypearson.com/
https://www.facebook.com/cor2ney
https://twitter.com/cor2ney
https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/8304331.Cortney_Pearson

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{Review} Day 21 (The Hundred #2) by Kass Morgan

Posted by Donna
Release Date: September 25th, 2014
Finished Date: August 20th, 2014

Publishers: Hodder 
Genre: YA Sci-Fi
Source: For Review
Format: Paperback

Pages: 320

Buy: Amazon UK / Amazon US / The Book Depo

In this pulse-pounding sequel to Kass Morgan's The 100, secrets are revealed, beliefs are challenged, and relationships are tested. And the hundred will struggle to survive the only way they can - together.

Now a major TV series on E4. In this pulse-pounding sequel to Kass Morgan's The 100, secrets are revealed, beliefs are challenged, and relationships are tested. And the hundred will struggle to survive the only way they can - together.


It's been 21 days since The 100 landed on Earth. They're the only humans to set foot on the planet in centuries... or so they thought. Facing an unknown enemy, Wells attempts to keep the group together. Clarke strikes out for Mount Weather, in search of other Colonists, while Bellamy is determined to rescue his sister, no matter the cost. And back on the ship, Glass faces an unthinkable choice between the love of her life and life itself.

The Review: Kass Morgan is back with the sequel to The 100, one of CW’s hit TV series and what an enjoyable sequel it was!

It’s now day 21 since the hundred first landed on Earth and they are still fighting for survival. Especially after the attack on their camp which revealed they are not alone on Earth and danger awaits them. Bellamy is on a mission to save his sister and takes Clarke along with him but, no sooner than they start out, something drags them back to camp. Wells is trying to keep everyone together and help build shelter and Glass back on the ship is in more danger than ever when the oxygen starts to run out leaving the ship is on the brink of disaster. Can the four teens hold it together when their hidden secrets are revealed while fighting for their lives as every turn?

I’m so glad I had the sequel ready and waiting for me after I finished The 100 because I couldn’t wait to find out what happened next and I enjoyed it just as much. What I enjoyed was the progress of the story, things move along a little bit faster than the first book. It’s faster paced, more dangerous and a lot more shake ups to the characters stories – which was great. I felt as though the characters grew a bit more too. There are some hard times during the story and for them to deal with them, I felt like they needed to learn from their mistakes and deal with things head on. Not only that but we finally get to see the arrival of the Earthborns’ which adds the excitement to the story and more romance which is always a plus.

I really like Clarke as a character – both in the book and the TV show. I feel as though she’s the most similar one in both roles. She’s strong and selfless and really cares about others. Bellamy is actually more likable in the book. He’s driven by passion for the people he loves, but he also doesn’t care much about the Colony. He’s a pretty sweet guy and I love the connection he and Clarke have. The one thing I didn’t like was how Clarke seemed to jump from Wells to Bellamy within the space of a day. I wouldn’t call it a love triangle but Clarke does need to decide which boy she wants and stick with that choice – I vote for Bellamy! Now Wells, I’m glad he’s in the book. It’s a shame he was cut out of the show so soon, but he’s got a strong voice that people just seem to want to follow. I’m kind of hoping he does take lead over the remaining 100 as I believe he’d do a good job. I have to say I am worried what’s to come if the other Colony people come and how it will affect the hundred. And last, Glass. I love Glass and Luke’s story. I definitely felt it was needed more in the sequel than the first book, but I do wish we knew more about the Colony from her point of view than what we get. But as a character she is great!

The ending of Day 21 was definitely more exciting and I loved where it was left at. I can’t wait to see what comes next and I’m glad I decided to pick up this series too. 

3.5 flowers!

Thank you to Hodder for giving me the opportunity to review this book in exchange for an honest review. 

{Review} Win the Rings by K.D. Van Brunt

Posted by Melanie
Release Date: March 7th, 2014
Finished Date: July 27th, 2014

Publishers: Evernight Teen  
Genre: YA Urban Fantasy 
Source: For Review
Format: eBook

Pages: 360

Buy: Amazon UK / Amazon US / The Book Depo

Jace has been the property of the U.S. Army since they found out about her when she was five, and now she has become one of its most valuable weapons. But Jace is not the only one of her kind. Gray is one too, but with the help of his sister, he has spent most of his sixteen years hiding from the Army. Now, the Army has found out about Gray and they cannot allow him to roam free. Operating on the theory that it takes one to catch one, Jace is send out with a special ops squad to hunt Gray down. But Jace is not the only one pursuing Gray, and the competition is after her too. What ensues is a desperate chase through city after city as duty and honor collide with love and sacrifice.

The Review: Win the Rings was a really great read and a promising start to a new series.
Here we have a world where people can become ‘shifters’, now these aren’t your normal shifters that change into animals and such…. These people can acquire your appearance, your memories, your clothes, your life….. with the touch of a hand. Ever since the US Army found out about this ability among the populace it devised a test in which all five year old children are given the test to discover whether or not they are shifters, if they are - they become property of the US Army and live their lives in a prison-esque training camp where they will become weapons for their country, if they survive. Others choose to run and are taken by family members before the test is administered, living a life off the grid but always running. That is how we meet both of our leads in this story. Jace has been in the ‘care’ of the US Army since her testing at five years old, she’s been trained and moulded into a hardened young 16 year old, capable of defending herself against anything and anyone. She is the perfect weapon and few will challenge her but with that status comes hatred from her peers and a loneliness that no one should bear. She focuses on being the best that she can be so that one day, she will be set free.
Grey is a ‘runner’ and along with his sister Nia, has been on the run since he was five having escaped just before the testing. Life on the run isn’t great and he is forced to use his ‘shifting’ abilities to survive and they’ve been surviving for 11 years until all of a sudden, he’s on everyone's radar and they’re coming for him with all barrels blazing forcing him and Nia into a run/hide/chase scenario. Jace is soon on the case as she is promoted and given more freedom, her General is trusing her with this new position and has made her a promise that if she can win three rings by doing these missions successfully, that he will deploy her to active duty and therefore freeing her of her current confines. Nothing will stop her from this goal and that of her ultimate goal too.
I really enjoyed this book and to be honest, it’s not something I would have necessarily have read. The characters are easily relatable and I empathised with both of our lead characters. I enjoyed both of their alternating points of view and thought it brought a very balanced aspect to the story because on one hand we get what it was like for Jace who was institutionalised at 5 yrs old and made into a weapon, trained in combat, given others lives to use in such training and made to live in a hostile environment with her peers, fighting for survival on a daily basis, not to mention the lack of love & such emotions a child would need – basically they are moulded as a type of super soldier. Then we have Grey who shows us what happens when you fight back, when you flee the testing because your family knows what will happen if you fail and living a life where you’re constantly looking over your shoulder and having to resort to doing the wrong thing in order to survive. Both aren’t free, both are trapped, both just want to live their lives in peace.
The storyline was very fast paced, just the way I like them! We have the shifting ability which could bring endless possibilities to a story, we have a secret Army facility that trains children with abilities and we see an opposing force to this facility and it all revolves around Grey because everyone wants a piece of him. As I mentioned, it is a run/hide/chase scenario, filled with action and I find these great for keeping me on my toes and interested in the story because you never know what’s going to happen next. I thought this was great opener to the series, it is brimming with potential and I can’t wait to find out what happens next. 

4.5 flowers!

Thank you to K.D Van Brunt for giving me the opportunity to review this book in exchange for an honest review.