E-ARC Review ~ Lies Beneath by Anne Greenwood Brown

Lies Beneath by Anne Greewood Brown

Book Stats:

Reading Level: Young Adult
Genre: Fantasy/Paranormal/PNR/Urban Fantasy
Format Reviewed: E-Galley
Publisher: Delacorte Books for Young Readers
Release Date: June 12, 2012

Series: Lies Beneath #1

Source: Netgalley

Calder White lives in the cold, clear waters of Lake Superior, the only brother in a family of murderous mermaids. To survive, Calder and his sisters prey on humans, killing them to absorb their energy. But this summer the underwater clan targets Jason Hancock out of pure revenge. They blame Hancock for their mother's death and have been waiting a long time for him to return to his family's homestead on the lake. Hancock has a fear of water, so to lure him in, Calder sets out to seduce Hancock's daughter, Lily. Easy enough—especially as Calder has lots of practice using his irresistible good looks and charm on unsuspecting girls. Only this time Calder screws everything up: he falls for Lily—just as Lily starts to suspect that there's more to the monsters-in-the-lake legends than she ever imagined. And just as his sisters are losing patience with him.

What I liked?: I really enjoyed how well written this book was. Being that I have never read a book about mermaids before I was instantly sucked into the story and had to keep reading until I got to the last page.  The overall plot of this book is something that really kept me interested in the story through to the end. I really enjoyed our main character Calder, he was one of those guys who follows his instincts rather than conforming to what everyone else is doing, which doesn't make him popular with his sisters.  Lily was a very like able character and I got a little bit of a "James Dean" feel for her overall.  No Insta-Love here peeps!

What I disliked?: Nothing really all that terrible but there were times where I felt that the relationship between Calder and Lily had a bit of a stalkerish feel to it.  This is the main reason this book wasn't rated higher.

Overall Impression: I was beyond impressed with my first ever mermaid book.  I will definitely be buying a finished copy when they are available to the public.

Rating: Break the Bank!

Recommendation: ?Why I read this book?: I saw the cover for this book on a blog that I frequent and thought that it looked really pretty.  I've never read a book about mermaids before and I really wanted to check it out.  Thank you Netgalley for approving my request!

Iron Crossed (Mercy Thompson #3) by Patricia Briggs

Iron Crossed by Patricia Briggs

Book Stats:

Reading Level: Adult
Genre: Urban Fantasy/PNR/Fantasy
Format Reviewed: Mass Market Paperback, 287 pages
Publisher: Ace
Release Date: January 2, 2008

Series: Mercy Thompson #3

Source: paperbackswap.com

I could smell her fear, and it satisfied something deep inside me that had been writhing under her cool, superior gaze. I curled my upper lip so she could get a good look at my sharp teeth. I might only weigh thirty or so pounds in my coyote shape, but I was a predator...
Mechanic Mercy Thompson can shift her shape - but not her loyalty. When her former boss and mentor is arrested for murder and left to rot behind bars by his own kind, it's up to Mercy to clear his name, whether he wants her to or not.

Mercy's loyalty is under pressure from other directions, too. Werewolves are not known for their patience, and if Mercy can't decide between the two she cares for, Sam and Adam may make the choice for her...

Why I read this book?: I've read the last two books in this series back to back, which is an extremely rare occurrence, and I really wanted to keep up with what's going on in Mercy's life so I just kept going.  I think I'm going to keep going until I run out of books:) 2013 you can't get here fast enough!

What I liked?: As usual, Mercy!  She's got this almost obnoxious sense of loyalty and when Zee gets into deep trouble she just jumps in with both feet to clear his name. That is also the point when shit hits the fan as well.  I really liked that in this book Mercy finally chose between Adam and Samuel. I really liked that in this book we learn more about the fae and their folklore, there were some pretty interesting stories that were mentioned in this book. The action and suspense were right up there with the last two books and I really liked how we were introduced to Adam's "vengeful" side and more of the pack behaviors. Like in the first book, the bad guy wasn't obvious until the very end and I was really surprised to see that Mercy was wrong about her suspicions.

What I disliked?: This book started off slower than I really liked.  It took a fair amount of reading and setting the book down before I got to the point that things started happening and the book grabbed my attention.  I also disliked that new characters and plot points were brought into the book but once introduced where never really expanded upon.  Maybe they make appearances in upcoming books but I would have liked to see a little more detail.

Overall Impression: This book is considerably more gritty than the last two books.  Even though it isn't my favorite in the series I think it's still a really good installment and I'm off to start Bone Crossed!

Rating: Wait Until Payday!

Recommendation: I recommend this series to anyone who loves a tough as nails heroine in their reading material.

Like This, Love That (Strong Female Heroines):  The Hollows series by Kim Harrison, Beka Cooper series by Tamora Pierce, Fever series by Karen Marie Moning

Blood Bound (Mercy Thompson #2) by Patricia Briggs

Blood Bound by Patricia Briggs

Book Stats:

Reading Level: Adult
Genre: Urban Fantasy/PNR/Fantasy
Format Reviewed: Mass Market Paperback
Publisher: Ace
Release Date: January 30, 2007

Series: Mercy Thompson #2

Source: paperbackswap.com

Under the rule of science, there are no witch burnings allowed, no water trials or public lynchings. In return, the average law-abiding, solid citizen has little to worry about from the things that go bump in the night. Sometimes I wish I was an average citizen...
Mechanic Mercy Thompson has friends in low places-and in dark ones. And now she owes one of them a favor. Since she can shapeshift at will, she agrees to act as some extra muscle when her vampire friend Stefan goes to deliver a message to another of his kind.

But this new vampire is hardly ordinary-and neither is the demon inside of him.

Why I read this book?: I just recently read the first book in this series, Moon Called, and enjoyed it so much I immediately picked up the second book.  Which is pretty amazing considering usually I have to read something different in between books in a series.

What I liked?: As always, Mercy Thompson is my heroine!  What I really loved about her in this book is that she took her "devil may care" attitude and used it to kick even MORE ass in this book than she did in the first book. She's so "real" even though she is a shapeshifter.  I feel I could be friends with her, if she existed in real life. In the first book the bad guys were bad but in this book the bad guy(s) were even badder than that!  The action is fast-paced and the mystery is great too.  Usually, I'm lukewarm on love triangles but I think in the case of this series it works really well.  Though I'm growing increasingly lukewarm on Samuel.  But at the same time I'm growing more in "book boyfriend lust" with Adam.  I really like the road that Stefan is traveling down, storyline wise...I can hardly wait to see how it/if it plays out.  A lot of the secondary characters are starting to grow on me, even Ben...maybe he isn't so bad after all.

What I disliked?: I'm really starting to dislike the whole vampire seethe, with the exception of Stefan of course.  Other than that I really don't have much in the way of negatives for this book.

Overall Impression: I might just have to come up with a whole new rating for series/books like this!  LOVE this series so much I'm going to go grab book three off of my shelf as soon as I post this review.

Rating:  Hand over the Paycheck!

Recommendation: I would recommend this book to anyone who loves a kick ass heroine who isn't afraid to get into harms way for the "people" that she cares about.

Like this, Love that: Charlie Madigan series by Kelly Gay, Night Huntress series by Jeaniene Frost

Extreme Exposure (I-Team #1) by Pamela Clare

Extreme Exposure by Pamela Clare

Book Stats:

Reading Level: Adult
Genre: Romantic Suspense/Contemporary Romance
Format Reviewed: E-Book, 298 pages
Publisher: Berkley
Release Date: August 2, 2005

Series: I-Team #1

Source: Personal purchase

It's been years since her child's father dumped her, and since then investigative reporter Kara McMillan has kept men at bay—although every day she aches more for a lover's touch. But to get that, the hard-boiled journalist must become vulnerable—a feeling she vowed never to have again.

With his dangerous good looks, charm, and power, Senator Reece Sheridan could have just about any woman he sets his piercing eyes on. But he’s intrigued by only one. This Kara, this gutsy investigative reporter, has a sensuality that arouses him to no end. If she’s a firebrand in print, he guesses, she must be just as fiery in bed…

But this is no fling. A sudden political scandal—and attempts on Kara's life—could very well drive them apart. Or maybe, just maybe, adversity could draw them into a bond even more intense than their steamy sexual embraces…

Why I read this book?: I downloaded this book onto my Nook many moons ago and I've decided that I'm going to try and read as many of my own books before I buy anymore.  I had read it once when I first downloaded it but I re-read it just to see if my feelings changed or not.

What I liked?: I really liked that Kara McMillian is a strong independent woman who is raising her four year old son, Connor, by herself.  She's worked her but off to earn the position that she's in on the I-Team at the Denver Independent.  She also doesn't take any crap off of anyone, especially her piggish boss Tom. Then she meets Senator Reece Sheridan at the Rio bar and what turns out to be a pretty intense relationship starts to blossom. Reece is the exact opposite of ALL politicians these days, he's your PERFECT fictional politician.  Then an employee at a local mining company blows the whistle on them to Kara and the story takes a dramatic turn.  The deeper Kara digs the more trouble she seems to find herself in.  Then she finds that the company that she is investigating has "bought" certain members of the state Senate. Is Reece included in those members?  I don't know, you'll have to read the book to find out.

What I disliked?: At times I felt that Kara was her own worst nightmare, not only in her professional life but also in her personal life.  Granted she's been abandoned by most of the men that have been in her life but I felt at times she lumped all men into the same category.

Overall Impression: I thought that this was a really good start to this series and I can hardly wait to read the other books that I have in this series.  It's chock full of romance and suspense and the timing and writing style I was really happy with overall.

Rating: Break the Bank!

Moon Called (Mercy Thompson #1) by Patricia Briggs

Werewolves can be dangerous if you get in their way, but they'll leave you alone if you are careful. They are very good at hiding their natures from the human population, but I'm not human. I know them when I meet them, and they know me, too.
Mercy Thompson's sexy next-door neighbor is a werewolf.

She's tinkering with a VW bus at her mechanic shop that happens to belong to a vampire.

But then, Mercy Thompson is not exactly normal herself ... and her connection to the world of things that go bump in the night is about to get her into a whole lot of trouble.

Moon Called by Patricia Briggs

Book Stats:

Reading Level: Adult
Genre: Urban Fantasy/Fantasy/PNR/Paranormal
Format Reviewed: Mass Market Paperback
Publisher: Ace
Release Date: January 31, 2006

Series: Mercy Thompson #1

Source: paperbackswap.com

Why I read this book?: I've had this book sitting on my bookcase waiting to be read FOREVER!  I finally got around to it and I completely DEVOURED it.

What I liked?: Mercy herself is now an addition to my "favorite heroine" list.   She's a walker, who shifts into a coyote.  She was raised for the most part by a werewolf pack from Montana which explains why she knows so much about werewolves.  I also LOVED Adam, he's the Alpha who has a "thing" for Mercy and routinely threatens to eat her cat.  Then craziness runs rampant and bad things happen to good people/werewolves.  I also loved the host of secondary characters that made this book chock full of AWESOME!  My personal favorite was Warren, you'll have to check out this book to learn more about Warren.  Even with all the high pressure situations that all the characters kept finding themselves in there was plenty of humor.  I was very pleasantly surprised at how fast paced this book was.  I really didn't want to put it down at all.  It sucks when real life gets in the way of my reading!

What I disliked?: I got nothing!

Overall Impression: I am kicking myself that I have waited as long as I have to read this series!  It is full of AWESOME!

Favorite Quotes:

“A werewolf tossed me against a giant packing crate while I was trying to rescue a frightened young girl who'd been kidnapped by an evil witch and a drug lord.”

“MS. THOMPSON, it said in heavy block letters, PLEASE KEEP YOUR FELINE OFF MY PROPERTY. IF I SEE IT AGAIN, I WILL EAT IT.”

“I don't like it when I outweigh my men.”

Rating: Hand Over The Paycheck!

Against the Wind (Raines of Wind Canyon #1) by Kat Martin

Against the Wind by Kat Martin

Book Stats:

Reading Level: Adult
Genre: Romantic Suspense
Format Reviewed:  Mass Market Paperback
Publisher: Mira
Release Date: December 28, 2010

Series: Raines of Wind Canyon #1

Source: Swap

They were known as the "no-account Raines boys" but they've grown into successful, honorable men and everything they have, they've fought for tooth and nail. Now each of the three brothers has one last obstacle to overcome to claim what's eluding them: love.
 
Secrets don't stay buried long in cattle country. Sarah Allen, the beautiful girl who humiliated Jackson Raines in high school, is back in town. Not so long ago, she couldn't wait to leave Wind Canyon, Wyoming, in her dust. But, recently widowed, she has nowhere else to go and finds herself on Jackson's ranch. And despite everything, Jackson's finding himself reluctant to get rid of her.

Why I read this book?: I got this book in a swap on the former bookswap on Goodreads.  I wanted to read this series when it first came out and was able to get a copy of the first 3 books in the series.

What I liked?: I really liked all the suspense that was in this book.  It starts right away, basically on the first page and continues on full speed ahead through the course of the book. I really liked Sarah and Jackson as a couple.  They have history and it was nice to see them grow past their troubling pasts.  I also really enjoyed Jackson's little brothers, while they don't play a huge part in the first book the little bit that they were in the book they made things interesting. Sarah's little girl Holly was so cute too. What I really liked about this book was that the REAL bad guy wasn't obvious.  You think you know but then something happends that makes your assumption completely wrong.  LOVED that part.

What I disliked?: At times I felt that some of the things that Jackson and Sarah took part in were borderline vigliante.  I also disliked Detectiver Mercer AND Sarah's deceased husband Andrew.

Overall Impression: I think that this book was really good beginning to this series. I wish Jackson's brothers were in it a little more but they get their own stories, which I can hardly wait to read.

 

Rating: Break the Bank!

Recommendation:  I recommend this book to anyone who loves a good romantic suspense novel or anyone who enjoys a good Western romance.

Epic Fail by Claire LaZebnik

Epic Fail by Claire LaZebnik

Book Stats:

Reading Level: Young Adult
Genre: Contemporary Young Adult
Format Reviewed: Paperback
Publisher: HarperTeen
Release Date: August 2, 2011

Series: N/A

Source: Personal purchase


Will Elise’s love life be an epic win or an epic fail?

At Coral Tree Prep in Los Angeles, who your parents are can make or break you. Case in point:

As the son of Hollywood royalty, Derek Edwards is pretty much prince of the school—not that he deigns to acknowledge many of his loyal subjects.

As the daughter of the new principal, Elise Benton isn’t exactly on everyone’s must-sit-next-to-at-lunch list.

When Elise’s beautiful sister catches the eye of the prince’s best friend, Elise gets to spend a lot of time with Derek, making her the envy of every girl on campus. Except she refuses to fall for any of his rare smiles and instead warms up to his enemy, the surprisingly charming social outcast Webster Grant. But in this hilarious tale of fitting in and flirting, not all snubs are undeserved, not all celebrity brats are bratty, and pride and prejudice can get in the way of true love for only so long.


Why I read this book?: I saw the cover for this book while cruising Goodreads and thought that the idea for the book was very interesting.  I was out last week at our local re-sale bookstore and found a copy that I purchased.

What I liked?: I really liked Elise and her sister Juliana.  They have a really close relationship and not even boys can come between them.  I also really liked that Elise had a pretty great sense of humor. I've been reading a lot of YA books lately that seem to have a considerable amount of Insta-Love in them...That was not the case in this book between Elise and Derek.  Elise actually thought that Derek was a jerk for awhile even. Juliana and Chase started out as friends and their relationship grew from there but I wouldn't call that Insta-Love either.  I think the best part of this book was that we all have "crazy" family members, you'll have to read the book to find out what I mean.

What I disliked?: Webster Grant!  What a prick!  I also thought that there was a fair amount of superficialness and stereotyping in the book as well.

Overall Impression: This was a quick fun read that I enjoyed a lot.

 

Rating: Wait for Payday!

The Better Part of Darkness by Kelly Gay

The Better Part of Darkness by Kelly Gay

Book Stats:

Reading Level: Adult
Genre: Urban Fantasy
Format Reviewed: Mass Market Paperback
Publisher: Pocket Books
Release Date: November 24, 2009

Series: Charlie Madigan #1

Source: Personal book purchase

Atlanta: it's the promised city for the off-worlders, foreigners from the alternate dimensions of heaven-like Elysia and hell-like Charbydon. Some bring good works and miracles. And some bring unimaginable evil....

Charlie Madigan is a divorced mother of one, and a kick-ass cop trained to take down the toughest human and off-world criminals. She's recently returned from the dead after a brutal attack, an unexplained revival that has left her plagued by ruthless nightmares and random outbursts of strength that make doing her job for Atlanta P.D.'s Integration Task Force even harder. Since the Revelation, the criminal element in Underground Atlanta has grown, leaving Charlie and her partner Hank to keep the chaos to a dull roar. But now an insidious new danger is descending on her city with terrifying speed, threatening innocent lives: a deadly, off-world narcotic known as ash. Charlie is determined to uncover the source of ash before it targets another victim -- but can she protect those she loves from a force more powerful than heaven and hell combined?

Why I read this book?: I wanted to broaden my horizons and try reading Urban Fantasy.  I saw the cover for this book on Goodreads and really liked it.  Then I read the synopsis and I was hooked.

What I liked?: Charlie!  Charlie Madigan is the epitome of kick-ass heroine!  She's a single mom who doesn't take any crap off of anyone...including her partner Hank, who happens to be a siren.  The world that the author created in The Better Part of Darkness in my opinion is just chock full of AWESOME. Since this is my first adult Urban Fantasy series ever, AWESOME is a good thing.  I really thought that part of the storyline where Charlie was killed and then brought back to life was very interesting and worked well into the plot of the book.  This book is so full of action that it was VERY difficult for me to put down.  I had to know what was going to happen next.  Besides Charlie, there is a host of characters that bring a vibrancy to the book, even the bad guys, who knew!?  I think the most interesting part of the whole book for me was that there was ABSOLUTELY NO romance what-so-ever.  Since I've been reading a fair amount of romance lately this was a refreshing sight.

What I disliked?: The only thing that I can come up with at this time is that it took me forever to find this series much less become interested in this genre.

Overall Impression: CHOCK FULL OF AWESOME!  Thank goodness I have the other 2 books in my possession as well.

Rating: Hand Over The Paycheck!

Recommendation: If you haven't read any Urban Fantasy and are looking to get into the genre I highly recommend this book.  It's full of action, engaging characters and there is a fair amount of humor as well.  READ THIS BOOK NOW!

A Brush of Darkness by Allison Pang

A Brush of Darkness by Allison Pang

Book Stats:

Reading Level: Adult
Genre: Urban Fantasy
Format Reviewed: E-Book
Publisher: Pocket Books
Release Date: January 25, 2011

Series: Abby Sinclair #1

Source: Personal Purchase



The man of her dreams might be the cause of her nightmares.

Six months ago, Abby Sinclair was struggling to pick up the pieces of her shattered life. Now, she has an enchanted iPod, a miniature unicorn living in her underwear drawer, and a magical marketplace to manage. But despite her growing knowledge of the OtherWorld, Abby isn’t at all prepared for Brystion, the dark, mysterious, and sexy-as- sin incubus searching for his sister, convinced Abby has the key to the succubus’s whereabouts. Abby has enough problems without having this seductive shape-shifter literally invade her dreams to get information. But when her Faery boss and some of her friends vanish, as well, Abby and Brystion must form an uneasy alliance. As she is sucked deeper and deeper into this perilous world of faeries, angels, and daemons, Abby realizes her life is in as much danger as her heart—and there’s no one she can trust to save her.


Why I read this book?: I saw a review for this book on Mindful Musings and decided that it was something that I wanted to try.

What I liked?: Abby Sinclair!  She's just full of awesome as well as piss and vinegar.  Abby is the TouchStone to the Protectorate and is suddenly put in charge when Moria, the Protectorate, goes missing.  I also enjoyed all the mystery that was included in the book.  When Moria goes missing more disappearances are brought to light AND THAT is when things get a little crazy. Oh and let's not forget all the humor that is through out this book as well.  I really enjoyed the host of secondary characters as well.  Especially Phineas, the horny little unicorn.

What I disliked?: I didn't really care for Brystion.  I don't know what it was exactly about him that I didn't like but it definitely had an impact on my overall feel for the book.  As a result of me not really liking Brystion, I really did "feel" the romance between Abby and Brystion.  I also didn't care for how Moria really let Abby down. I didn't really like how certain characters in the book treated Abby at the beginning of the book and then had a complete turn about at the end either.

Overall Impression:  I really enjoyed this book.  It's chock full of humor and mystery.  This book from what I can tell is classified as a Paranormal Romance but to me it read more like an Urban Fantasy.  It just didn't read like a PNR, if that makes sense at all.

Rating: Wait Until Payday!

Recommendation: The Better Part of Darkness (Charlie Madigan #1) by Kelly Gay

Taking a Shot by Jaci Burton (Play by Play #3)

Taking a Shot by Jaci Burton

Book Stats:

Reading Level: Adult
Genre: Contemporary Romance
Format Reviewed: E-Book (251 pages)
Publisher: Penguin Group
Release Date: March 6, 2012

Series: Play by Play #3

Source: Personal Purchase

If you want to score, you have to get in the game...

The last thing Jenna Riley needs is more sports in her life. While her brothers are off being athletic superstars, she’s stuck running the family’s sports bar, whether she likes it or not. Then in walks pro hockey stud Tyler Anderson. As much as Jenna would like to go to the boards with him, she’s vowed to never fall for a jock—even one as hot as Ty.

Ty, intrigued by the beautiful bar owner, becomes a regular. He senses that Jenna wants to do something more with her life. And as he gains her trust, the passion between them grows, as does Ty’s insistence that Jenna should start living for herself. With his encouragement, Jenna starts to believe it, too…

But first, Jenna has to figure out what she wants, what she needs, who she loves, and if she has the passion and pride to take a shot at having it all—including Ty…

Why I read this book?:  I read the two books prior in this series and enjoyed them immensely.  This series has become an Automatic Purchase for me.

What I liked about this book?:  I really liked Tyler Anderson.  He's a professional Hockey player but he's so down to Earth it's almost unreal.  He's been hanging around the Riley families bar for months and is VERY attracted to Jenna Riley.  Mainly because Jenna is the type of woman that he is usually attracted to.  Jenna is also attracted to Tyler but because she has spent her whole life around sports, she doesn't want to be with someone who is into sports or plays sports.  Good thing Tyler doesn't take "No" for an answer!  I really enjoyed the connection between Ty and Jenna.  They each have there own demons to vanquish and it made this particular book that much better in my opinion.  I also enjoyed that there was a fair amount of humor as well.  I enjoy a good giggle every now and then when I'm reading. The characters from the 2 prior books all made appearances in this book as well as the introduction of Cole, the Riley's cousin who is the main character of the next book in the series.  The love scenes in this book were scorching hot (the sex on ice skates scene is a personal favorite) and plenty abundant as well.

What I didn't like about this book?: There were times I had a hard time connecting with Jenna.  She'd go into these "dark moments" and go from a like able character and transform into a character that I just couldn't stand.  Everyone has insecurities but I don't know many people who turn into a mean person intentionally. Another thing that I didn't really care for in this book was the over abundance (for me personally anyway) of sex in the book.  It started to feel like that was all that Ty and Jenna's relationship was based on for the most part.

Overall Impression?:  While not my favorite book in the series, it's still a really good book.  This is definitely a series that I will continue on with.

Rating: Wait Until Payday!

Recommendations:  The Perfect Play (Play by Play #1)

                                      Changing the Game (Play by Play #2)

Steel by Carrie Vaughn

Title:  Steel
Author: Carrie Vaughn
Genre: YA/Time Travel

Sixteen-year-old Jill has fought in dozens of fencing tournaments, but she has never held a sharpened blade. When she finds a corroded sword piece on a Caribbean beach, she is instantly intrigued and pockets it as her own personal treasure.

The broken tip holds secrets, though, and it transports Jill through time to the deck of a pirate ship. Stranded in the past and surrounded by strangers, she is forced to sign on as crew. But a pirate's life is bloody and brief, and as Jill learns about the dark magic that brought her there, she forms a desperate scheme to get home—one that risks everything in a duel to the death with a villainous pirate captain.

Time travel, swordplay, and romance combine in an original high-seas adventure from New York Times bestseller Carrie Vaughn.

Review:

I saw this book one day when I was looking on the Barnes and Noble web page and thought that the premise was good enough to add it to my shopping cart.  After checking out it's page on Goodreads I found that Steel got mixed reviews.  A lot of 3 and 4 star ratings.

I thought that the idea behind the story was right up my alley...mainly because it was a new-to-me idea.  I think reading Steel helped me get into the proper frame of mind for the new Pirates of the Caribbean movie that came out last weekend.

I thought Jill overall was a like able character, though in the beginning she was a little bit to "woe is me" for me personally.  There is being dedicated to your sport then there is addicted.  I think that at the beginning of the book she was leaning closer to addicted....To the point of NOT being able to enjoy a family vacation a MONTH after her last match.  Which leads up to Jill being transported back to the 18th century and becoming a member of the crew on the pirate ship Diana.  The more time that Jill spends on the Diana the more she's able to not only conquer her own issues she's also able to help the crew with some of their own problems.  When Jill is finally transported back to her own time she takes the lessons that she has learned on the Diana with her to use in her life from that point on.  Plus, there is a REALLY COOL "souvenir" too.

The pirate portion of the book was my favorite part of the book, meaning I'm not really a fan of the beginning but it got much better.  There was a TON of action.  The captain of the Diana was a WOMAN and I learned a TON.  Did you know that pirate ships are where the first forms of democracy were formed?  The main positions (captain, quartermaster, first mate, etc.) were all voted on.  Each ship has it's own rules which are known as in Steel the "articles."  Also, I really enjoyed that Carrie Vaughn brought actual pirates out of the history books and put them in her book.

The only part I had a slight misgiving with was the "romance."  There were plenty of hints at it but there was only 1 real kiss in the whole book.

Overall, I would recommend this book if you are looking for a fun, quick read, or a slight departure from what you've been reading recently.

Rating: Wait for Payday

Review ~ Darkness Becomes Her by Kelly Keaton

Title: Darkness Becomes Her
Author: Kelly Keaton
Series: God's and Monsters #1
Genre: Fantasy/Paranormal/Mythology/Urban Fantasy
Release Date: February 22, 2011
Format Reviewed: Paperback
Source: Purchased at Barnes and Noble

Ari has always been a little strange. She has long, thick, silver hair that remains unchanged no matter how much she cuts or dyes it. She has teal eyes that lure people in. And growing up with bounty hunting foster parents has taught her how to kick some serious butt. When she learns that her birth mother committed suicide in "New 2," the reincarnation of hurricane-ravaged New Orleans, Ari travels there to uncover her past. New 2, it turns out, is full of unsettling entities like half-spider creatures, sword-wielding strangers, and vampires--including the supersexy Sebastian. Ari seems normal in comparison--but every creature she encounters, no matter how deadly, is afraid of her. And when she finds out why, the truth is worse than she ever imagined....

Why I read this book?:  I had been wanting to read Darkness Becomes Her for a VERY long time.  I finally picked up a copy last Tuesday when the second book in the series came out.

What I liked:  Ari.  Personally, Ari reminded me a little bit of Lara Croft.  Only in a teenage body.  Ari is different, not only because of her curse but because she's a product of "The System."  She's been bounced between foster homes and she's learned to trust no one really.  She goes on a mission to learn more about her family history and BOY does she learn some interesting things.

I also really enjoyed all the action that took place in this book.  It's been pretty non-stop since I started reading the book.  Ari's current foster parents are in the bail bonds business and have taught Ari how to defend herself.  Which most definately comes in handy.

Sebastion and the host of secondary characters.  They all bring a little something to the story, even the bad guys.  I'm even going to lump New 2 in as a character.  I loved the description of New Orleans after being ravaged by the hurricanes.

I really enjoyed the author's writing style and how well thought out the content of the book was. This was the debut for this author and I'm thoroughly enjoying her writing.  Another author to add to my "Auto-Buy" list.

What I didn't like: That it took me FOREVER to actually pick up a copy of this book.  There were a few times through out the course of the book where I thought that Ari was being a bit whiney but it wasn't enough to detract from my rating. Also, there is some cussing in this book.  If your not into cussing in your YA this might not be the book for you.  It didn't really bother me but I put it down here so that the information wouldn't get lost in the mix.

Overall Impression:  Yup this book was full of Awesome.  Another author added to the "Auto-Buy" list.

Rating:  Break the Bank!

Griffin Rising by Darby Karchut

Title: Griffin Rising
Author: Darby Karchut
Release Date: June 28, 2011

For Griffin, it's time to angel up.

For centuries, rumors have abounded of a lowly caste of supernatural beings known as the Terrae Angeli. Armed with the power to control Earth, Fire, Wind and Water, these warriors secretly serve as guardians for mortals in danger.

But for one young angel-in-training, Griffin, life is hell as a cruel master makes his apprenticeship a nightmare. On the verge of failing, a new mentor, Basil, enters his life and changes it forever. It is their father-and-son relationship, sometimes turbulent, often hilarious, always affectionate, that sings through the story like a pure note.

Masquerading as the average teen next door, Griffin struggles to learn his trade, navigate the ups and downs of modern life among humans (including falling in love with the girl next door), and prepare for the ancient trial-by-combat every apprentice must pass at sixteen or be forced to become mortal.

Review:

My friend gave me her copy of Griffin Rising to read because she said it was Awesome and I needed to read it.  I hadn't heard about this book up to that point.  I'm usually one who judge's a book by it's cover and honestly, I'm not sure if I would have picked up Griffin Rising. If my friend hadn't of told me to get my crap together and read this book I would have totally missed out on a PHENOMENAL YA novel.  Griffin Rising is what my co-workers and I refer to as Awesome Sauce.  It's good to be "Awesome Sauce."

What I really liked about Griffin Rising is that the book is actually a coming of age story disguised as an angel adventure. Yeah for growing up and being an angel! Once I started reading I was instantly attracted to characters, even the evil Nicopolis, total "winner".  I also felt that I was better able to connect with the characters via their journal entries, which I enjoyed immensely.  I really enjoyed all the contrast that Darby brought to the character of Griffin.  One second Fin is an angel apprentice training for his ultimate test...the next he's your "typical" smart ass teenager.  I really enjoyed following Fin through out this book.

One of my favorite parts of the whole book was the actual relationship between Griffin and his Mentor Basil.  Basil comes into Griffin's life after Griffin is removed from his former Mentor Nicopolis who happened to be extremely abusive and rooting for Griffin to fail (Nicopolis sounds like a real winner!).  When Basil enters Griffin's life everything starts to change for the better.  But it still takes Griffin a long time to start opening up to his new Mentor, because all good things must come to an end right?

Then not long before Griffin is scheduled to take his test a mortal teenage girl, Katie and her ginormous dog, moves in across the street.  A sweet teen love develops which adds a whole new dimension to the story.  That is when things get real interesting between Basil, Griffin and their new neighbors.

Shortly before Griffin's test, Basil receives word that Griffin's past is going to come back to haunt him.  Does Griffin pass his ultimate test?  To find out your going to have to pick up a copy of Griffin Rising.

Rating:  Break the Bank!

Catching Jordan by Miranda Kenneally

Title:  Catching Jordan
Author:  Miranda Kenneally
Series: N/A
Genre: Contemporary YA
Release Date: December 1, 2011
Source: Copy from personal library

Synopsis:



What girl doesn't want to be surrounded by gorgeous jocks day in and day out? Jordan Woods isn't just surrounded by hot guys, though-she leads them as the captain and quarterback of her high school football team. They all see her as one of the guys, and that's just fine. As long as she gets her athletic scholarship to a powerhouse university. But now there's a new guy in town who threatens her starting position... suddenly she's hoping he'll see her as more than just a teammate.

Why I read this book: I had been seeing reviews for it all over the place and I'm a sucker for a heroine who breaks gender roles.

What I liked about this book:  I liked Jordan a lot.  She's a strong confident football player when she's on the field but once she's off the field she's just a girl who's dealing with teenage girl stuff.  I could easily connect with her.  I'm one of those girls who's more confident being "one of the guys" than I am being "one of the girls."  The host of secondary characters...I especially loved Sam Henry.  I also really liked all the humor and trash talk that took place between Jordan and her teammates.  The writing style I connected with too.  It just sucked me in and wouldn't let go.  I also really liked the ending, good triumphs over "evil."

What I didn't like about this book:  Ty.  For me personally, he came off as a nice guy in the beginning but once got what he wanted he turned into UBER-prick.  He drove a pretty serious wedge between Jordan and Henry too.  Henry could see and Jordan just didn't want to.  I also didn't care for the overall feel of Jordan and Ty's relationship.  Another detracting point was Jordan's dad and NFL quarterback who just doesn't understand his daughter.  Everyone has dreams but I fel that Jordan's dad spent a considerable amount of time trying to squelch Jordan's.

Overall Impression:  Overall, I'm pretty happy with this book.  I will definately be checking out Stealing Parker when it comes out.  I would recommend this book to anyone who is looking for a book with a strong heroine character who doesn't take any crap from anyone.

Rating: Borrow

The Lost Dogs: Michael Vick's Dogs and Their Tale of Rescue and Redemption by Jim Gorant

Title: The Lost Dogs: Michael Vick’s Dogs and Their Tale of Rescue and Redemption

Author: Jim Gorant

Series:

Genre: Non-fiction, animals, sports

Publisher: Penguin

Release Date: 2010, September 16

Format: E-Book, 488 pages

Source: Bought for my Barnes and Noble Nook

Synopsis (from Goodreads):

An inspiring story of survival and our powerful bond with man’s best friend, in the aftermath of the nation’s most notorious case of animal cruelty.

Animal lovers and sports fans were shocked when the story broke about NFL player Michael Vick’s brutal dog fighting operation. But what became of the dozens of dogs who survived? As acclaimed writer Jim Gorant discovered, their story is the truly newsworthy aspect of this case. Expanding on Gorant’s Sports Illustrated cover story, The Lost Dogs traces the effort to bring Vick to justice and turns the spotlight on these infamous pit bulls, which were saved from euthanasia by an outpouring of public appeals coupled with a court order that Vick pay nearly a million dollars in “restitution” to the dogs.

As an ASPCA-led team evaluated each one, they found a few hardened fighters, but many more lovable, friendly creatures desperate for compassion. In The Lost Dogs, we meet these amazing animals, a number of which are now living in loving homes, while some even work in therapy programs: Johnny Justice participates in Paws for Tales, which lets kids get comfortable with reading aloud by reading to dogs; Leo spends three hours a week with cancer patients and troubled teens. At the heart of the stories are the rescue workers who transformed the pups from victims of animal cruelty into healing caregivers themselves, unleashing priceless hope.

What I liked:  I really liked how this book has changed my opinion on the American Pit Bull Terrier.  Not only does this book talk about the Vick case it also goes into the history of this breed.  Did you know that the American Pit Bull Terrier is known as the "Nanny Dog?"  It was originally bred to be a family pet and a protector of the farm.  I also really enjoyed that once things got rolling on the case each dog was evaluated on it's individual merit. They got to learn how to be dogs and do dog things and interact with people on a positive level for probably the first time EVER. When the dogs were seized there was only 1 dog in the 51 that were taken that was deemed to dangerous to even try to touch.  This book shows that there are a lot of advocates for those without voices.

What I Didn't Like:  There are some pretty graphic scene's in this book to show the reader how big an asshat Michael Vick truly is.  Anyone who can hurt another living breathing creature just needs to be taken out of the gene pool entirely, but that's just my opinion.

Overall Impression:  I LOVED this book.  I downloaded on a whim and tore through it very quickly.  But like I mentioned above there are some pretty graphic scene's so just beware.  There is a TON of heartbreak and triumph so I whole heartily recommend a box of kleenex when reading this book.  I also recommend this book to any animal lover out there.

Rating: Break the Bank! 

Blood Bound by Rachel Vincent

Title:  Blood Bound
Author: Rachel Vincent
Series: Unbound #1
Genre: Paranormal/Urban Fantasy/Fantasy/Paranormal Romance
Release Date: August 23, 2011
Source: Copy from personal library

Rating:  Paper Shredder

Synopsis:

By blood, by word, by magic…
Most can't touch the power. But Liv Warren is special— a paranormal tracker who follows the scent of blood.

Liv makes her own rules, and the most important one is trust no one.

But when her friend's daughter goes missing, Liv has no choice but to find the girl. Thanks to a childhood oath, Liv can't rest until the child is home safe. But that means trusting Cam Caballero, the former lover forbidden to her.

Bound by oath and lost in desire for a man she cannot have, Liv is racing to save the child from a dark criminal underworld where secrets, lies, trauma and danger lurk around every corner…every touch…every kiss.

And more blood will be spilled before it's over…'

NOTE:  This review is based on the portion of the book that I did read.

What I liked:  I liked how Oliva was written very much.  When I was reading about her I saw a female version of John McClane from Die Hard.  She's one kick ass Binder.  She's still in love with Cam and has done some pretty bad things to protect him.  She's also bound to a crime boss.

I also liked Cam a lot too.  He was tall, dark and handsome.  He's also still in love with Olivia.  He's also bound to the other crime boss.  I really liked that the book started off with some action and some ass kicking.

What I didn't like:  That each chapter is told from either Cam or Olivia's point of view but I was never quite sure who was talking until I was a good chunk of the way into the chapter.  It became a rather annoying distraction for me and a major turn off.  I also didn't care for the action tapering off.  We start off with a pretty fair amount of action in the beginning and then it flat lines.  The straw that broke the camel's back was that I wasn't able to connect with the characters (even though they were described wonderfully) or the story.

Overall Impression:  I had heard a lot of really great things about this book and I really wanted to like it.  The problem was I just couldn't connect with the story or characters.  Just remember just because I didn't care for this book doesn't mean you won't like it.

Sinner Takes All by Tera Patrick

Title: Sinner Takes All
Author: Tera PatrickSeries: N/A
Genre: Non-Fiction

Source: Copy from personal library 

Rating: Break the Bank!

Synopsis:

How does a girl go from being a shy, awkward bookworm to the biggest porn star in the world? In Sinner Takes All, Tera Patrick reveals all, including: her career as an international model; losing her virginity at fourteen to a thirtysomething photographer; learning oral sex techniques backstage at a Guns N' Roses concert; having an orgy with a team of firefighters; her unglamorous job in a nursing home; her first forays into the adult movie business; and how, with her husband's help, she launched her own multimillion-dollar empire.

Along the way, she dishes on the emotional side of being Tera Patrick, writing candidly about her battles with depression and anxiety. She also discusses finding true love and building a healthy marriage, achievements that many consider to be impossible in the world of porn. Featuring hundreds of photos, plus diary pages and scintillating sidebars, Sinner Takes All takes the tell-all to raunchy new heights.

Review:

As you can see by past reviews I have a pretty eclectic taste in reading material. I came across this book several months ago and it caught my interest. Come on the cover alone is pretty eye catching. Honestly, the sex industry is a rather interesting subject matter to read about. NOTE: If you are going to read this book there are some photographs that are of a "adult" nature.

Tera Patrick is a pretty inspirational woman. You may or may not agree. But that is my opinion of Tera after reading her memoir. She had a very rough start in life. Her parents were pretty much absent a lot. Her father has spent most of his life an "herbal American" (both legal and illegal) and her mother is a Thai woman with a violent temper. Tera (who's real name is actually Linda) was abused by her mother. She even said in the book that writing it was a form of "therapy" for her on some issues.

Tera started off a model and ended up in Japan for a while. Where she became addicted to drugs and was first introduced to sex. But after her modeling career tanked she came back to the states and got all the drugs cleaned out of her system she lead a "normal" life for a while. But her sex life was pretty crazy and stayed "crazy" for a long time.

Tera says that the thing that really turned her on to the porn industry was that you didn't have to be a size 0 and 110 pounds. She took the porn world by storm. She's had her ups and downs, but she's still kicking. For that she thanks Evan (her now ex-husband), who also helped her launch her own empire.

So after a rough start in life Tera is, in my opinion, an inspiration. She came from the lowest lows (drug addiction, abuse, etc.) to the highest highs (her own multi-million dollar empire) all with a little elbow grease. What I learned from this book is that if you put forth the effort there is no dream that is unattainable.

Chasin' Eight by Lorelei James

Title:  Chasin' Eight
Author: Lorelei James
Series: Rough Rider's #11
Genre: Contemporary Romance/Erotica
Release Date: June 28, 2011
Source: Personal e-book purchase

Rating:  Wait until payday

Synopsis:

She wants it…he’s got it…and the chase is on…

Bull rider Chase McKay has finally landed in a pile too big to charm his way out of. Caught with his pants down, he finds himself bucked right off the PBR tour until he can get his act together.

Hollywood actress Ava Cooper became the tabloids’ favorite target when her longtime boyfriend was outed as gay. She needs a place to lay low and a chance to prove to herself that she can satisfy a red-blooded man between the sheets. The sexy, rugged cowboy she finds holed up in her Wyoming hideaway seems like the answer to her every fantasy.

But Chase has sworn off women. Forever. Or at least a month. Whichever comes first.

When they take to the road to get Chase more hands-on bull riding experience, they have every intention of keeping their hands off each other. But the two headstrong stars quickly end up riding a hot and heady rodeo circuit all their own—until the press gets wind of their affair. When the dust clears and the lights of the paparazzi fade, are they ready to give up chasing the dream for a chance of finding forever?

Warning: Strap in, another hot McKay is about to bust out of the gate and this bull rider knows a thing or two about riding hard…

Why I read this book: My mom introduced me to this series and I've really enjoyed it very much.  I can hardly wait until the next installment is released in May.  This is one series that's VERY easy to keep going with.

What I Liked:  I really liked how this story was written from a more psyhcological side of the characters.  Chase and Ava each have their own set of demons to conqure and slowly but surely as the book progresses they do conqure those demons...Together.  Another thing that I really liked was that the main characters though madly attracted to one another started off as friends and the actual romance/relationship gradually built.  I also really liked how there wasn't instant sexy times.  Your actually a good chunk of the way through the book before there is any of that at all.  I also really enjoyed the host of secondary characters and the inclusion of characters from previous stories.

What I didn't care for: I was lukewarm on the way that Chase and Ava were written at times.  I get that they are supposed to come off as spoiled and bratty at times but there were a few moments when it was just a bit too much.  The scene in Wichita where a camera man tries to exploit an injured bull rider.  I also didn't really care for the amount of lying that Chase did.

Overall Impression:  I really enjoyed this book and would recommend it to just about anyone.  It had it's flaws but it was still a really good read.  Though Chase and Ava aren't my favorite couple in this series they are near the top of the list. 

The Fine Art of Truth or Dare by Melissa Jensen

Title: The Fine Art of Truth or Dare
Author: Melissa Jensen
Series: N/A
Genre: Contemporary YA
Release Date: February 16, 2012

Rating: Wait for Payday

Synopsis:

Pretty in Pink meets Anna and the French Kiss in this charming romantic comedy

Ella is nearly invisible at the Willing School, and that’s just fine by her. She’s got her friends—the fabulous Frankie and their sweet cohort Sadie. She’s got her art—and her idol, the unappreciated 19th-century painter Edward Willing. Still, it’s hard being a nobody and having a crush on the biggest somebody in the school: Alex Bainbridge. Especially when he is your French tutor, and lessons have started becoming, well, certainly more interesting than French ever has been before. But can the invisible girl actually end up with a happily ever after with the golden boy, when no one even knows they’re dating? And is Ella going to dare to be that girl?

Review:

I saw this book on one of my Goodread friends list of books to be read and it sounded really interesting and a departure from what I've been reading recently.  Naturally, I yet again broke my book buying ban and downloaded this book onto my Nook.  If this book isn't on your wishlist please add it RIGHT NOW!

Ella is an "invisible" girl at her private school and has a major crush on Alex Bainbridge, the school hottie.  Ella was a pretty likable character for me.  She's suffering from some of the issues that all high school girls at one time or another suffer through (let's just face it High School sucks for a fair amount of people).  Add on top of that a gnarly burn scar and you end up with a quiet less than confident Ella.  Though I did enjoy watching Ella grow as the book progressed.

A new thing for me...This is the first book I've ever read that had an openly gay character in it.  Ella's friend Frankie is a gay teen and personally for me Frankie was my favorite character.  Frankie LOVES to play Truth or Dare with Ella and their other friend Sadie which comes into play a fair amount in this book.

Sadie, I felt that Sadie had some stereotypical elements to her but even though she was rich and skinny she wasn't part of the "popular" crowd. For the record, that is something that made me LOVE her.  She has a weird thing for sushi too but that's forgivable.  And she let's her mom walk all over her, not so forgivable but understandable.

Alex is the hottie and major crush of the book.  He's rich and has a fair amount of power and pull in the school, yet he seems so down to earth.  He just fits in with Ella's crazy life and family.

My major quirk with this book was Ella's strange fascination with Edward Willing.  He's the artist that she's writing her Honor's paper on.  Ella has this postcard on her wall of him that she talks to and these random "conversations" were a little bit of a turn off for me.  Though, as Ella learns more about Edward she also grows as a result of this new knowledge.

Overall, I was really impressed with this book.  I really liked the plot and storyline.  I really did think this book had a fair amount of "Pretty in Pink" moments.  Though I wasn't able to give this book a Break the Bank! rating it's still a very good book and I would strongly recommend it to anyone who is looking for a little something different to read.  I literally read this book in 1 sitting it is that engaging.

Long Hard Ride by Lorelei James

Title: Long Hard Ride
Author: Lorelei James
Series: Rough Riders #1
Genre: Contemporary Romance/Erotica
Format Reviewed: Purchased E-Book
Release Date: February 1, 2008


Rating: Wait until Payday

Synopsis:

Channing Kinkaid itches for a wild western adventure with an untamed man. Enter Colby McKay, bull rider, saddle bronc buster and calf roper. He knows he’s found a woman who’s up to the challenge of cutting loose. Intrigued by Channing’s bold proposition to “horse around” on the road, Colby proposes sexual escapades not only in his bed, but in those of his two rodeo traveling partners. Can Channing give up total control? Especially when not all is as it seems with the sexy trio?
Review:

I love my Nook smut!  Furthermore, I LOVE this series!  I hadn’t really heard of Lorelei James until my mom told me I HAD to read this series!  Now I’m kicking myself that I waited so long to check this authors books out!

At the start of this book Channing has basically run away from the pre-planned life that her parents have set up for her.  Channing’s idea of adventure is chasing the rodeo and it turns out that Channing’s first traveling partner is a slime ball.  Enter our white knight, Colby McKay and his traveling partner’s Trevor Glanzer and Edgar Mancuso.  Colby offer’s Channing the adventure that she’s been looking for and Channing, how is completely attracted to Colby, can’t help but jump at the chance.

What really attracted me to this book was that everything wasn’t what it seemed with a couple of the characters.  That and Colby McKay is a total Alpha male with a practically insatiable sexual appetite.  As the 4 amigo’s roll along everyone learns a little something about each other. Which as the story progresses makes things very interesting.

Sexually, pretty much anything goes in Long Hard Ride.  At times Colby was a little bit TO Alpha for me but it seems that just when I wanted to write him off as an ass he did something to redeem himself to me.  I will say this, it does get a little wild at times.

Overall, this isn’t my absolute favorite book in the series but it most definitely was a great start to a fascinating series.