(ARC Review) Tyler by C.H. Admirand

TYLER
The Secret Life of Cowboys
Author: C.H. Admirand
Source: Publisher
*I received this book free of charge
in exchange for an honest review*

Mass Market Paperback: 352 pages
Publisher: Sourcebooks Casablanca (March 1, 2011)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1402243758
ISBN-13: 978-1402243752

SUMMARY:


Faced with a mountain of bills, rancher Tyler Garahan takes a night job with a lot of trepidation. But being a male performer at a strip club does come with at least one beautiful compensation-and feisty red-haired bookkeeper Emily Langley seems to understand Tyler even better than he understands himself...

MY THOUGHTS:

Western romance novels can be a hard thing at times for me to read.  Sometimes authors go over the top in the country western talk and make it cliched. Authors have to walk a fine line with this subject in my opinion.


When I started reading this book, I was having a hard time getting into it.  Yes there is the typical cowboy talk and such, but I also had a hard time getting into the characters.  At first, they just didn't spark my interest.  It starts out with Tyler looking for a job at a night club.  He needs the extra money in hopes of saving the family ranch.  For the pay that he will make doing it, Tyler takes a job at being a male stripper.  Emily is part owner of the night club.  Of course Tyler and Emily fall for each other because it wouldn't be a romance novel without it.


The book was okay and the writing was the same, but I just couldn't bring myself to really care what happened with either one of them.  To me it was missing some sparks.  Tyler was sexy, strong and what you expect in a cowboy.  He stands up for Emily when the town tries to shut down her club.  Instant hero for the heroine. 


If you are a fan of western romance, you might enjoy this book more than I did.  I can't see myself re reading this book in the future, but maybe it is just because I have found myself not to be a fan of the whole western scene.  If you like your rugged cowboys and women who fall in love with it, then give this book a go!  You might find yourself falling for the hot cowboy!


MY RATING:

 
  If the library doesn't have it, don't worry about reading it! 2 STARS

(ARC Review) It Happened One Bite by Lydia Dare

IT HAPPENED ONE BITE
Author: Lydia Dare
Source: Publisher
*I received this book free of charge in 
exchange for an honest review*

Mass Market Paperback: 416 pages
Publisher: Sourcebooks Casablanca (March 1, 2011)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1402245076
ISBN-13: 978-1402245077

SUMMARY:

Blaire Lindsay's been warned that her ancestral home is haunted. But it will take more than tales of a ghost to frighten Blaire, a battle-born witch with supernatural strength and the ability to make sparks fly from her fingertips. Hearing spectral wails, she decides to search for their source, and is surprised to find a handsome young man chained to the dungeon wall. But when Blair frees James from his bonds, she quickly discovers she's unloosed far more than she could ever have imagined...Soon the castle is overrun with vampires whose perfect manners and compelling blood lust make for some very awkward moments, and Blair and James are joined in the fight of their lives to save everything they hold dear from the forces of evil...

MY THOUGHTS:

After gushing about the previous books by this author, I was already hooked with Lycans.  Now the author ventured into the vampire realm and gave me even more story to gush about!  Seriously, this author can write about anything and I will not only buy the book, but devour it as soon as bring it home.  I received this book for review, but I already plan on purchasing a final copy to add to my keeper shelf.


The independent heroine is Blaire Lindsay.  She is strong and not one to mess with.  I loved Blaire.  She is not the typical heroine you find in a historical romance who is weak and shy.  This girl has spunk and is not afraid to use it!  When she discovers James Maitland trapped in the castle that she is visiting, she finds herself attracted to the bad boy.  


With suspense and romance wrapped up into a sexy novel focused in the historical genre, this book did not disappoint.  I loved the characters, the plot and the change in direction that the author brought to us! There were a few parts that felt a little rushed at times, but I was willing to overlook that because I still feel this author does a wonderful job writing. That is the only reason I didn't give this book a five star rating.


If you are fan of Lydia Dare and her previous books, I feel that you will easily enjoy the world she created with vampires.  One to add to your shelves if you are already hooked on this author's writing!


MY RATING:

Very Good! I would recommend this book! 4 STARS

IMM: In My Mailbox (24)

In My Mailbox is hosted by Kristi @ The Story Siren

 This week was a great week! I got a ton of review books plus my book fairy sent me a package of books! Of course, since my husband has been working overtime, and I have been suffering with dealing with the kids on my own while battling the flu, he let me go book shopping! I was going to buy more, but our local store didn't have that many new releases in stock.

Here is what showed up in my mailbox this week!

FOR REVIEW:

Trouble Twisters by Garth Nix and Sean Williams (ARC)

Sean Griswold's Head by Lindsey Leavitt

Blood Red Road by Moira Young

Miles From Ordinary by Carol Lynch Williams (ARC)--2 copies

Abandon by Meg Cabot (ARC)

Quicksilver by Joy Spraycar 

Thank you to: 

Bloomsbury USA Children's Books
Shelf Awareness
St. Martin's Griffin
Scholastic Inc.

BOUGHT:

Dreams of A Dark Warrior by Kresley Cole

Tucker's Claim by Sarah McCarty

Completely Smitten by Susan Mallery

GIFTED:

Burned by P.C. Cast + Kristin Cast

Thank you to:

Star Shadow Blog

FROM BOOK FAIRY:

Nauti Deceptions by Lora Leigh

Stupid Fast by Geoff Herbach (ARC)

Explosive by Beth Kery

The Last Little Blue Envelope by Maureen Johnson (ARC)

13 Little Blue Envelopes by Maureen Johnson

Paper Covers Rock by Jenny Hubbard (ARC)

Girl Wonder by Alexa Martin (ARC)

Sass & Serendipity by Jennifer Ziegler(ARC)

Griffin Rising by Darby Karchut

That is what I got this week! Feel free to link your IMM in the comments!

The Reaping (The Fahllen, #1) by M. Leighton

THE REAPING
The Fahllen, #1
Author: M. Leighton
Source: Author Submission

*I received this book free of charge 
in exchange for an honest review*

Format: Kindle Edition
File Size: 557 KB
Sold by: Amazon Digital Services
Language: English
ASIN: B004LGS772
Lending: Enabled
Published:  January 29th 2011

SUMMARY:

Every hell has its devil. And Carson is about to become intimately acquainted with hers.

Seventeen-year-old wallflower Carson Porter has always dreamed of being something special, but what she gets isn’t what she signed up for.

Yeah, a girl’s supposed to change as she gets older, but this is ridiculous! Shiny skin, greener eyes and a run-in with the flesh-eating dead are just a few of the changes Carson has to adjust to, not to mention the arrival of very hot and very dangerous Derek Hrolf. If all that wasn’t enough to turn her once hum-drum life into something unrecognizable, a twin sister that haunts her from the shadows and a wheeling, dealing collector of souls will definitely do the trick. The question is: what will her life become? And what will she become?

MY THOUGHTS:

First of all, how haunting is that cover?? Amazing! To be honest with everyone, the cover caught my eye before I even read the summary! Then, I read the summary and was intrigued. It left me wondering what Carson is suppose to change into and what type of world the author is creating.


Living with an over protective Father, Carson has found her social life lacking and leaving her feeling like she isn't up to par with others her age.  Her father doesn't allow make-up, going anywhere besides school and home, and practically a recluse in the friends department.  I felt sorry for Carson on this point and felt bad that she didn't have a Mother to talk to about this.  Then, everything starts to change and Carson finds herself in the center of the ring, so to speak.  Not only is she changing, but the people around her are changing as well and she finds herself wondering what it going on. 


Are you still wondering what type of book this is? Is it zombies, vampires, werewolves or aliens? Well rest assured, it is none of those things.  This is a book about Reapers, which is a great play on words with the title being called The Reaping.  When Carson meets Derek though, he is unable to answer many of the questions that she asks and they both need to figure them out together. While Carson was such a strong character of the book, Derek complimented her in a balanced way.  He held her up when she needed it, but she also quickly recovered and stayed strong and true to the personality that the author created for Carson. 


With chills and thrills with each turn of the page, The Reaping has brought an edge to the young adult genre by stepping out of the normal paranormal creatures of the night.  I enjoyed reading this book and taking the journey down the path of unknown with Carson.  With the perfect balance of dialogue and a creepiness to keep you gripping the pages, the author has brought a fresh new voice to read.  


MY RATING:

Outstanding Book That Will Stay On My Bookshelf
For Rereading! 5 STARS

DISCUSSION POST: Book Swag -- Yay or Nay

Today I wanted to touch on the subject of Author/Publisher Swag.  If you are looking at this post funny and not knowing what Swag is exactly, I am talking about bookmarks, pens, notepads, totes, etc.  Swag can be almost anything that is used to help in promotion of a book to generate buzz and to get the book noticed. I wanted to express my opinion on the subject and I invite you to share your opinion on the topic as well!

Book swag generally can either come from a publishing company or an author.  There are so many types of swag and can sometimes be very creative.  For instance, I have received thermos mugs, lollipops, jewelry, totes bags, calenders, candy and even mouse pads.  I love to see how creative publishers/authors can get with the type of swag they pass out.

In my personal opinion, I LOVE swag.  Not only is it fun to get something unusual, but it is also something we can use to spread the word about a great book!  I have a tote bag that features The Pretty Little Liars book.  I use it to carry my library books back and forth when I exchange them. I have had so many comments on it and people ask where it came from.  I also have a T-Shirt that features Leap Books on the front.  Many people have inquired about it as well and this leads to a discussion of books as well.  My favorite is my Drink of Me by Jacquelyn Frank coffee thermos.  I am a serious coffee drinker and carry that with me all the time! A friend of mine was curious one day about it and I showed her the book I own that it goes to.  She thought it was neat that I had this item of swag to catch her attention and she ended up reading the book and becoming a fan of this authors writing. 

One thing I have started to notice with Swag though, is how coveted it can become.  When we notice something new and creative, we all want some of it!  The more creative the item, the more sought after it becomes. Sometimes this can be a good thing and sometimes it can be a nightmare.  I admit that I loved the Twilight books!  When they came out their wasn't as much swag for that series as there is now.  What was available to a select few at the time has now become a source of greed.  With all the hype around the books and movies, people are trying to sell this stuff to make a quick buck that they essentially got for free.  Add to that the merchandise that is swarming the stores for this series, people can get burnt out pretty quick on it.

All in all, I still am a huge fan of swag.  Personally, I have a TON of swag that I use to decorate my library with, share with others in giveaways or just as gifts, and even donate to my daughters library to get teens at the school interested in a book.  Swag can be helpful and worth their weight in gold if used properly.  You wouldn't believe how excited I can get by the mailbox when I open up an envelope of bookmarks!  I squeal with joy and do a happy dance.  So authors/publishers, next time you send off that review book that you have spent money to print for use of promotion, think about the little things like swag as well.  A little extra time and money spent adding a bookmark or pen to the package CAN  make a difference! 

What are your thoughts? Do you like the Swag? What do you do with your Swag?

COVER ALERT!! Vanish by Sophie Jordan

Vanish (Firelight #2)

Author: Sophie Jordan

Expected Release Date: Sept 6, 2011

ISBN13: 9780061935107

Publisher: Harper Teen 

SUMMARY:

To save the life of the boy she loves, Jacinda did the unthinkable: She betrayed the most closely-guarded secret of her kind. Now she must return to the protection of her pride knowing she might never see Will again—and worse, that because his mind has been shaded, Will’s memories of that fateful night and why she had to flee are gone.


Back home, Jacinda is greeted with hostility and must work to prove her loyalty for both her sake and her family’s. Among the few who will even talk to her are Cassian, the pride’s heir apparent who has always wanted her, and her sister, Tamra, who has been forever changed by a twist of fate. Jacinda knows that she should forget Will and move on—that if he managed to remember and keep his promise to find her, it would only endanger them both. Yet she clings to the hope that someday they will be together again. When the chance arrives to follow her heart, will she risk everything for love? 

MY THOUGHTS ON COVER:

GORGEOUS! Firelight had the warmth of fire in the colors, and Vanish has the coolness of ice in the colors. I love this cover and it definitely would catch my eye on the shelves!

(ARC Review) Recovery Road by Blake Nelson

RECOVERY ROAD
Author: Blake Nelson
Source: Publisher
*I received this book free of charge in exchange for an honest review*


Reading level: Young Adult
Hardcover: 320 pages
Publisher: Scholastic Press (March 1, 2011)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 0545107296
ISBN-13: 978-0545107297

SUMMARY:

From acclaimed author Blake Nelson, the story of girl meets boy...in rehab. 

Madeline is sent away to Spring Meadows to help with a drinking and rage problem she has. It's a pretty intense place, but there is the weekly movie night in town--where Madeline meets Stewart, who's at another rehab place nearby. They fall for each other during a really crazy time in their lives. Madeline gets out and tries to get back on her feet, waiting for Stewart to join her. When he does, though, it's not the ideal recovery world Madeline dreamed of. Both of them still have serious problems. And Stewart's are only getting worse....

MY THOUGHTS:

I was a little hesitant in reading and reviewing this book for the simple fact that it touches on some heavy and serious subjects.  Rehab, drug abuse, and even a small scene of attempted rape are touchy subjects in the young adult genre.  As I started to read this book though, I found that the author has done a wonderful and remarkable job at telling the story, touching on these subjects and keeping the interest of the reader.

In this heartbreaking story we meet Madeline and Stewart.  Both are at the rehab center called Spring Meadow.  Both characters are struggling to get over their addiction to drugs and alcohol. While I have never been to rehab or been in a situation like this, the author did such an amazing job of telling each characters story that I felt like I was right there with them both.  You could actually feel the pain and the struggle that each one of the characters goes through on a daily basis.  The two of them grow close even if it is against the treatment centers rules.  When Madeline is released, they both promise to find each other when Stewart finishes his rehab.

The story is broken up into parts.  The first part is dealing with the rehab and trying to work through the addiction.  Then we have the part of Madeline going home and trying to adjust to life after rehab. She tries to fit back in at school and is hesitant on making friends.  Along the way, Madeline finds new friends and new things are discovered about herself.  When Stewart is released, nothing seems to work out as they planned, yet Madeline believes she is in love with him.  It is like she traded one addiction of drugs, for the drug of love.

The story really starts moving at a quicker pace at this point.  Each part of the book is the next chapter in her life.  We slowly see Madeline try to climb over the obstacle of being a recovering addict and trying to make something for herself.  She finishes high school and even gets accepted into college.  We see her struggle, relapse and eventually make it out of the hole of despair.  Stewart on the other hand is fighting his own personal demons.  While I kept hoping that he would find the way to his happy ending, you could tell that the author was going to put you through some rough patches with Stewart.  By the end of the book I was crying tears of joy for Madeline and tears of sadness for Stewart.  When the story ends it  leaves you with hope, sadness, joy and strength.

A well written book for teens on the subject of drug abuse and consequences that can arise of this life changing and sometimes deadly addiction.  The book does touch on touchy subjects of attempted rape, drinking, smoking and sex, but I feel the way the author portrayed it in the book it needed to be written to tell the story in a realistic way.  One book that I am glad to have read and wouldn't mind re reading again.

MY RATING:

Outstanding Book That Will Stay On My Bookshelf
For Rereading! 5 STARS

In Memory of Author L.K. Madigan

L.K. Madigan / Lisa Wolfson

Feb.23, 2011

The announcement came today that author L.K. Madigan has passed away from cancer at age 47.

For more info: Oregon Live Announcement

The author announced on her blog in January that she had been diagnosed with Stage 4 Pancreatic Cancer.  She also had a battle with breast cancer earlier in life that she fought and won. 

Lisa is the author of Flash Burnout and The Mermaid's Mirror.

I want express my sympathy to the family and we will miss you Lisa!

Claire de Lune by Christine Johnson

CLAIRE DE LUNE
Author: Christine Johnson
Source: Personal Purchase

Reading level: Young Adult
Hardcover: 352 pages
Publisher: Simon Pulse; 1 edition (May 18, 2010)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1416991824
ISBN-13: 978-1416991823

SUMMARY:

Torn between two destinies? 

Claire is having the perfect sixteenth birthday. Her pool party is a big success, and gorgeous Matthew keeps chatting and flirting with her as if she's the only girl there. But that night, she discovers something that takes away all sense of normalcy: she's a werewolf. 

As Claire is initiated into the pack of female werewolves, she must deal not only with her changing identity, but also with a rogue werewolf who is putting everyone she knows in danger. Claire's new life threatens her blossoming romance with Matthew, whose father is leading the werewolf hunt. Now burdened with a dark secret and pushing the boundaries of forbidden love, Claire is struggling to feel comfortable in either skin. With her lupine loyalty at odds with her human heart, she will make a choice that will change her forever?

MY THOUGHTS:

I have had this book for a while now, and finally took the time to read it.  The cover is actually what attracted me to this book in the first place and that alone made me want to buy it.

When Claire turns sixteen, she is expecting a car.  Well, she doesn't get the car but gets fur instead.  It seems her mom has been keeping Claire's true heritage a secret until now.  After finally getting the attention of Matthew at her birthday party, Claire discovers that she is actually a werewolf.  With a rogue werewolf hunting people, a hot boy who wants to be more than friends, and a mother who refuses to embellish on the details of her heritage, Claire is confused and wondering what to do.

I really had a hard time enjoying this book.  While I think the plot was a great idea, I feel the book to be just written in the 'okay' category. I never could get into Claire's character because at times she was whiny and weak, then she would be strong and independent.  Her personality was flat, and the relationship between Claire and her mother felt forced.  Her mother was hardly around and when she was, she acted cold and unloving to me.  The secondary characters were not much better in my opinion.  They seemed like characters that just filled text on pages with no reason at times.

The mystery of the book was fairly easy to figure out early on which left the story lacking the suspense it needed to keep the book going from beginning to end.  Overall a book that passed the time and was okay, but not a memorable read that leaves me anticipating the next book.

MY RATING:

 
  If the library doesn't have it, don't worry about reading it! 2 STARS

(ARC Review) The Day Before by Lisa Schroeder

THE DAY BEFORE
Author: Lisa Schroeder
Source: Around The World Tours

Reading level: Young Adult
Hardcover: 320 pages
Publisher: Simon Pulse (June 28, 2011)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1442417439
ISBN-13: 978-1442417434

SUMMARY:

Sometimes there's no turning back.

Amber's life is spinning out of control. All she wants is to turn up the volume on her iPod until all of the demands of her family and friends fade away. So she sneaks off to the beach to spend a day by herself.

Then Amber meets Cade. Their attraction is instant, and Amber can tell that he's also looking for an escape. Together they decide to share a perfect day: no pasts, no fears, no regrets.

The more time that Amber spends with Cade, the more she's drawn to him. And the more she's troubled by his darkness. Because Cade's not just living in the now--he's living each moment like it's his last.

MY THOUGHTS:

Oh, Lisa Schroeder. How much do I love thee?  I love the writing style of verse.  I love the characters you create because they are so real.  I love how you are not afraid to touch on subjects that touch the heart. Your books are what every teen and adult needs to read. 


Amber is a 16 and feels as though her whole world is crumbling down around her.  With the issue Amber is being forced to face, I would feel the same way. She desperately wants a day for just her and to feel anything but sadness.  When she escapes to the beach for the day, fate steps in and she meets Cade.  Cade is facing a scary issue as well the following day.  The two make a pact not to discuss why they are alone at the beach that day and to just feel happiness for the day.  They become fast friends within the first 12 hours and it slowly turns to teen love.


I loved this story.  I love how Cade and Amber both tried so hard to make the other feel alive and free.  Even though they both are facing something difficult the following day, they learn that fate may be cruel at times, but it also brings good as well.  


The only thing I didn't like about this book was how soon it ended! I wanted more moments with Amber and Cade.  I found myself slowing my reading down towards the end because I wanted to savor each page and not think about how close I was getting to the end of such a beautifully written story. I enjoyed this story so much, I had it read within one hour.  I can't wait for the release of this book so I can run out and buy myself a finished copy to read over and over again. 


MY RATING:

Outstanding Book That Will Stay On My Bookshelf
For Rereading! 5 STARS

When Alex Was Bad by Jo Davis

WHEN ALEX WAS BAD
Author: Jo Davis
Source: Personal Purchase

Paperback: 288 pages
Publisher: NAL Trade (August 4, 2009)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 0451227026
ISBN-13: 978-0451227027

SUMMARY:

After fifteen years together, Alexander and Olivia Quinn have become strangers, both in and out of the bedroom-until Olivia suggests a provocative plan to save their marriage. When their handsome neighbor joins the game, all three players will become embroiled in a dangerous and unexpected world of secrets, betrayal, and murder.

MY THOUGHTS:

Where should I begin with this review? The bad, the good or maybe the in between?  First of all this is definitely a book for the 18+ group.  Heck, I am in my 30's and I was still blushing and uneasy in some parts of the book.  What can you expect in this book? Well, the author touches on many sexual appetites in this story.  As you read the book you will find M/M, M/F/M, BDSM, open marriage, voyeurism and even hot wax thrown in to the mix. Oh  wait, there is some suspense and plot thrown in as well.

Let's start with what I didn't like about the book. Alex and Olivia are finding that their marriage is going downhill in the sex department.  They both have successful careers and have put their marriage on the back burner.  When Olivia catches Alex being seduced by one of his sexy employees, Olivia hatches a plan to amp up their sex life.  I am all for finding new ways to spice up a marriage, but the way Olivia goes about it was just wrong.  She basically gives Alex the go ahead in having sex with anyone he chooses as long as he admits it to her and tells her everything about it.  Then he must accept his punishment that she chooses.  Hello? Giving your husband a free pass to go mess around with anyone is suppose to spice up your marriage? I don't think so.  I still consider that cheating and was a bad excuse for a plot.

The in between for me about this book was the suspense.  I thought the barely existent suspense of a sex ring going bust was kind of lame, but plausible.  I accepted it and tried to enjoy it.  I just wish there would have been more suspense and real action in exchange for some of the sex scenes that weren't as great.

The good part of the book was that the author took it a step further and also introduced another player in the punishment game.  I like how the author was willing to explore the male/male scenes and make them sexy as hell without going over the top.  I enjoyed the character of Jason.  His personality was great and he actually had some funny dialogue.  Even if the author did stumble in some parts of the book with the plot, I did find myself wanting to finish it just to see if Jason would have a happily ever after as well.

Overall not a horrible book, but not one I will re read anytime soon--if at all.  It was great for a quick and steamy read that you sometimes crave, but not one with enough plot or substance to warrant it a keeper book.

MY RATING:

 
  If the library doesn't have it, don't worry about reading it! 2 STARS

Hex, A Witch and Angel Tale by Ramona Wray

HEX, A WITCH AND ANGEL TALE
Author: Ramona Wray
Source: Author Submission
*I received this book free of charge in exchange for an honest review*

Paperback: 254 pages
Publisher: CreateSpace (January 29, 2011)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1452871574
ISBN-13: 978-1452871578

SUMMARY:

Like most girls at Rosemound High School, seventeen-year-old Lily Crane is acutely aware of Ryder Kingscott. Hands down the cutest guy in school, Ryder is cool, mysterious, and utterly untouchable…especially for Lily. For when she touches someone, Lily instantly learns all about their lives. And while such a skill might seem nifty, in truth it is wrecking Lily’s life. So she is shocked when Ryder asks her out — and even more shocked to discover he has a rival. Lucian Bell is the gorgeous new kid who can’t take his eyes off of Lily. Being pursued by two hotties should make a girl happy, but Lily is skeptical. The boys act as if they’ve met before, hating each other with a passion that could only be rooted in a dark, dangerous past. A past full of terrible secrets. The kind of secrets that could get a girl killed.

MY THOUGHTS:

Are you looking for a fresh new voice in the young adult genre?  I was excited when author Ramona Wray contacted me to review her novel since I was looking for a new author to enjoy in this genre.  Plus, who can resist a cute and cuddly cover like this one? Isn't the artwork adorable?


Lily has a secret skill that she doesn't like to use.  She can touch a person and learn about their life.  To some this may seem like a cool thing to do, but not for Lily.  She is trying to have a normal life and this nifty trick makes it hard for her.  Imagine wanting to date a boy and as soon as you touch you get the movie of their life in your head.  Kind of takes the romance out of the relationship rather quickly.  She has had a crush though on Ryder and has been watching him from a distance.  When Ryder actually asks her out though, Lily can't believe it! Then to top it off, we are introduced to Lucian, who also asks Lily out.  Both boys are hot, and Lily finds herself in a love triangle with suspense and action intertwined with the romance.


The best part of the book--Ryder.  Can it get anymore perfect than him?  Well, you might think so  at first with Lucian, but let me tell you, Ryder was the perfect one in my opinion.  He was sweet, patient, and understanding -- something we all want in a boy at that age,  Did I mention he was also hot?  The author did a wonderful job of including the suspense of a hexed curse that Lily discovers and everything flowed beautifully.  Yes, some parts were predictable and the beginning was a little choppy in the writing, but the author quickly recovered and made a book I thoroughly enjoyed. 


MY RATING:

Very Good! I would recommend this book! 4 STARS

WINNERS!!!!

Sorry for the delay in announcing the winners.  I haven't been feeling well.  Using Random.org, the winners have been chosen for the ebook copies of An Unexpected Evening by Roxanne Rhoads.

The winners are:

Judy

(claimed and sent)

Ammy Belle 

Witchy Woman

(claimed and sent)

Tanya1224

Rayna's Everything blog

Winners: Please contact me at djsfoxylady @ gmail.com to claim your prize.  I will be emailing each of you tomorrow since I am not feeling well today.  Enjoy the ebook and thank you to everyone who entered!

Interview at Tiger's Blog!

Hey everyone! I am not feeling too well today, so thank goodness Tiger's interview with me posted today! Go say hi to Tiger and check out my interview!

All Consuming Books 

Thanks Tiger for featuring me today and I loved the interview!

IMM: In My Mailbox (23)

 

 

In My Mailbox is hosted by Kristi @ The Story Siren

 This week was slow at the beginning, but when Friday hit it was a goldmine of books in my mailbox.  A large order from Paper Back Swap arrived and then I found a great score at our local grocery store!

Here is what showed up in my mailbox this week!

FOR REVIEW:

 

 

 From Sourcebooks:

Wickedly Charming by Kristine Grayson

Sealed Forever by Mary Margret Daughtridge

Love Drunk Cowboy by Carolyn Brown

 

From Scholastic:

Recovery Road by Blake Nelson

Thank you to Sourcebooks and Scholastic!!

FROM PBS:

 

 

Too many to list! Some I have read, others I got because I needed them to complete a series.

 

PURCHASED:

 

 

This Side of the Grave by Jeanine Frost

I could have sworn this didn't come out until Feb. 22, but our local Alberston's Grocery store had it already on the shelf! I snagged that so quick and put it in my basket, my husband didn't even realize I had it until we got to the check outs! 

That is what I got this week! Feel free to link your IMM in the comments!

 

 

Beastly by Alex Finn

BEASTLY
Author: Alex Finn
Source: Personal Purchase

Reading level: Young Adult
Paperback: 336 pages
Publisher: HarperTeen; Revised edition (February 8, 2011)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 0061963283
ISBN-13: 978-0061963285

SUMMARY:

Love is never ugly 

Now a major motion picture starring Vanessa Hudgens and Alex Pettyfer 


I am a beast. A beast! Not quite wolf or bear, gorilla or dog but a horrible new creature who walks upright. I am a monster. 

You think I'm talking fairy tales? No way. The place is New York City. The time is now. It's no deformity, no disease. And I'll,stay this way forever—ruined—unless I can break the spell. 

Yes, the spell, the one the witch in my English class cast on me. Why did she turn me into a beast who hides by day and prowls by night? I'll tell you. I'll tell you how I used to be Kyle Kingsbury, the guy you wished you were, with money, perfect looks, and the perfect life. And then, I'll tell you how I became perfectly . . . beastly. 

MY THOUGHTS:

I love books that retell my childhood fairy tale reads and movies.  In Beastly, we get a modern day story of Beauty and the Beast.

This book starts out strong and kept me very interested in the story.  While Kyle was a typical pretty boy jerk, you still get to see glimpse's of his good side that is hidden beneath. He has the perfect look that has gotten him almost anything along with Daddy's money.  When he meets Kendra, a witch, he makes fun of her and even stoops to humiliating her at the dance.  She puts a curse on him that night and by morning he wakes up as The Beast.  He only has 2 years to find true love to break the spell.

While I enjoyed this book from beginning to end, I did have one problem with it.  While we start off with a strong modern day fairy tale, at times I felt the author reverted back in time with it.  Just some of the things the characters would say, or the way Lindy would act made it feel too Disney themed at times.  Other than that, this book was an enjoyable read and kept me interested from page one up until the last word of the book.

This was a great story that I think not only teens will enjoy, but adults who love the fairy tale romance with a happily ever after that is guaranteed with the old fables we grew up on.  I can't wait to read the other books by this author!

MY RATING:

Very Good! I would recommend this book! 4 STARS

ABOUT THE MOVIE:

According to IMDB .com, Beastly will be in theaters on March 4th, 2011 (USA).  While I can't wait to see the movie, especially with the perfect casting of Alex Pettyfer as Kyle/Adrian, but it is just a great modern day adaptation of the book.  While they didn't do a great job at casting Lindy, I am willing to overlook that.  They also didn't portray the Beast like they did in the book.  If you remember Beast from the Disney movie, that is how the book describes him.  In the movie preview below, you can definitely see that they changed the look of The Beast for the big screen. They also cast Mary Kate Olsen as the witch.  PERFECT! She fits that part and plays it perfectly.  The one other thing that bugs me about the preview/movie is they change the time line.  In the movie he has only one year, but in the book Kyle has two years. I still can't wait to watch it though!

Blood On Silk by Marie Treanor

BLOOD ON SILK
Author: Marie Treanor
Source: Author Submission
*I received this book free of 
charge in exchange for an honest review*

Paperback: 336 pages
Publisher: NAL Trade; 1 edition (September 7, 2010)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 0451231562
ISBN-13: 978-0451231567

SUMMARY:

While in Romania researching historical superstitions, Scottish academic Elizabeth Silk comes upon the folk tale of Saloman, a seductive prince staked centuries ago, legend's most powerful vampire. Now, in the ruins of a castle crypt, Elizabeth discovers supernatural legends that have come alive. Her blood has awakened him. Her innocence has aroused him. But Elizabeth unleashes more than Saloman's hunger, and it's going to unite them in ways neither could have imagined.

MY THOUGHTS:

This book took me a bit to finish.  It is not because it was too long of a read, but more of 'digging through narrative' kind of read.  The author used a lot of narrative and long descriptions to make a simple point.  Sometimes this can be a good thing, but in this book, it seemed to be repetitive.  I found myself skipping through these parts because at times, the description felt like it was words to just make a word count. 


Saloman was the typical broody and deadly vampire.  I couldn't enjoy his character too much because he seemed vile and evil to me.  I couldn't get an ounce of human emotion for him and his personality.  Elizabeth was odd for me.  While she was strong in parts, she also had a weak side as well.  That is fine for me.   I like my characters to have flaws at times and that can make a great book in itself.  Yet, I still couldn't bring myself to care what happened to her either. 


While I did finish the book, and the author peaked my interest near the end to read the next one, this wasn't a typical vampire story I normally would read.  I just couldn't bring myself to love or care about the characters.  I will say that just because I am not a fan of this book doesn't mean you shouldn't read it. This darker sort of story might be your taste.  I could have been having an off day in reading this and it just didn't appeal to me at that time.  If you are a fan of the darker stories, you should give it a go.  Overall, not one I will re read, but I might give the second book a chance to redeem this one. 


MY RATING:

 
  If the library doesn't have it, don't worry about reading it! 2 STARS

Mad Love by Suzanne Selfors

MAD LOVE
Author: Suzanne Selfors
Source: Publisher
*I received this book free of charge
in exchange for an honest review*

Reading level: Young Adult
Hardcover: 336 pages
Publisher: Walker Books for Young Readers (January 4, 2011)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 080278450X
ISBN-13: 978-0802784506

SUMMARY:

When you're the daughter of the bestselling Queen of Romance, life should be pretty good. But 16-year-old Alice Amorous has been living a lie ever since her mother was secretly hospitalized for mental illness. After putting on a brave front for months, time is running out. The next book is overdue, and the Queen can't write it. Alice needs a story for her mother—and she needs one fast.

That's when she meets Errol, a strange boy who claims to be Cupid, who insists that Alice write about the greatest love story in history: his tragic relationship with Psyche. As Alice begins to hear Errol's voice in her head and see things she can't explain, she must face the truth—that she's either inherited her mother's madness, or Errol is for real.

MY THOUGHTS:

This is the first book I have read by this author and I must say that this was a cute and enjoyable read!  The author gave me a new take on Cupid and what his appearance could really be.  In Mad Love, Cupid is not the chubby naked baby that we have come to recognize as Cupid on Valentine's Day.  In this book he is mysterious, kinda cute and needing his story told by Alice.

Alice on the other hand, has a crush on skateboarder Tony.  Alice is also trying to deal with her Mother being in a hospital for mental illness.  She is stepping into her Mother's shoes as a writer of romance while struggling with money problems that a teenager shouldn't be dealing with.  She covers for her Mother at a book signing and even goes as far as writing the publisher to tell them the next book is on the way.  Now Alice is forced to write a romance novel with no idea how to write one.

Enter Cupid, or Errol as he likes to be called.  He tells Alice that he wants her to write his love story.  She thinks Errol is a crazy stalker at first, but quickly realizes he is the real deal.  Now Alice finds herself listening to Errol's story of love and getting a new take on it as well.

I liked this book because of the fun and quirky story.  The writer did a wonderful job of telling the story and the pace was perfect.  Overall it was a cute and fun read that teens will enjoy. 

MY RATING:

Very Good! I would recommend this book! 4 STARS

CONTEST and PROMO: An Unexpected Evening by Roxanne Rhoads

I first want to apologize to the author and to Bewitching Book Tours for the mix-up on the date of promotion and review of this book.  I had it marked for next week, and with family sickness and personal issues, I feel bad about missing my tour date for today.  I was suppose to post a review on my stop for the tour, but life happened this last week and everything got mixed up. Again, I am so sorry Roxanne and I hope this makes up for it!

An Unexpected Evening

Author: Roxanne Rhoads

Release Date:  January 21, 2011

SUMMARY:

Samuel is a centuries-old vampire who prefers to be a recluse. He is always afraid of losing control and becoming the monster he once was. Falling in love with a young witch has pushed his boundaries and pulled him out of his comfort zone.

Katerina always encourages Samuel to be more open, to let loose, and to really "live" instead of only existing in the shadows.

One night, he finally grants her wish . . . in ways she never imagined.

CONTEST:

I am going to personally purchase 5 copies of this ebook from Amazon.  I will then have Random.org pick the 5 winners.  I will gift them each a copy of this ebook in Kindle format. 

1.  Contest is open until Feb. 19th, 2011

2. Contest is open to anyone with a Kindle.

3. 5 Winners will each receive ONE copy of this ebook,  gifted from me through Amazon.

4. Just leave a comment stating if you would like to be entered for the contest.  Please include an email address for contacting winners.