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RACHEL FIRASEK

RACHEL FIRASEK

Amazon.com Author

has 107 followers and is following 107 people

I'm a little bit of mother, wife, sister, daughter, author, manager, girl Friday, and reader of all things romance.
  • Waco, TX, USA
  • member since June 7, 2011
  1. Burgandy Ice

    Burgandy Ice reviewed a book.

    The Crown of Embers

    I kind of knew this book would be a treat to read. But I did not anticipate how much. The first in the trilogy, The Girl of Fire and Thorns, was a surprise treat - "caught me off-guard great" I wrote. This second book was all that... again, which is remarkable.

    Elisa is so......

    I kind of knew this book would be a treat to read. But I did not anticipate how much. The first in the trilogy, The Girl of Fire and Thorns, was a surprise treat - "caught me off-guard great" I wrote. This second book was all that... again, which is remarkable.

    Elisa is so... un-assuming. Even as queen, the story follows her thought pattern and as she questions herself, I grew more concerned that she might be right. She's trying to be a strong queen, but she doesn't really know how and her attempts feel clumsy, but there's just no right answers. When things start falling apart, it is so real and so... unavoidable.

    I could hardly put the book down. Elisa grasps for her kingdom, but it slips from her hands. So slowly, so agonizingly sweetly, she falls in love. Everything that happened in Fire and Thorns just make each moment that much more fleeting, more treasured because of her acceptance of fate. I love her calculating thoughts as she faces her destiny... rises up to the challenge of being queen... accepts her heart. Elisa is so real.

    Always there is that distinct UN-greatness, too. Her Godstone is great, but it's lodged in Elisa's belly-button and embarrasses her as much as increases her. She has to be humble and embrace her weaknesses if she has any hope of succeeding and I just love the juxtaposition of it.

    Some of the story is told from Hector's point of view, too. His character unfolds slowly revealing his childhood, his hopes for love, his respect for his family, his incredible sense of honor. As he allows himself to love, he is put in a difficult position. He will save Elisa's life at the cost of his own without a moment's hesitation, but his focus on her starts effecting his ability to protect her. He recognizes how love eclipses his senses putting her in more danger.

    What are these lovers to do? The choices they make are costly. Lives are at stake and there's always the weighing of that cost. Other, minor characters, are also essential. They do what is best - or what they think is best - and each decision brings consequences and leads to more difficult decisions. *rubs hands gleefully* It's amazingly complex, fast-paced... a perfect book to follow The Girl of Fire and Thorns. There is not so much a cliffhanger ending as much as... all these choices leading to a surprising climax that requires another book to answer.

    If I have learned anything from Carson's first two books, it's that anything can happen to anyone at any time. Those "cute" coincidences where things "just work out" that I see in stories? Yeah... not so here. Nope. Here the sand actually rubs raw, the bad guys are skilled assassins that get their targets, blood flows and gets sticky and messy, and it takes time to recover from injuries. (Imagine!)

    My Rating: 4.98 - I love the characters, I love the situations, I even love hating the bad guys. I was frustrated right along with Elisa and Hector when they were frustrated. The world-building cracks me up sometimes like the Godstone - there's always an element of casual reality in the midst of epic drama that is so unique. Carson's writing style continues to catch me off guard. I expect to be able to set it aside and am surprised to find my knuckles gripping my Nook fiercely unwilling to stop reading until I gallop to the end.

    (read full review)
  2. 17 hours ago | Comments (0) | Was this review helpful? Yes (0) | No (0)
  3. Burgandy Ice

    Burgandy Ice reviewed a book.

    The Bitter Kingdom

    I LOVE THIS BOOK!!!!!

    OMG. Very rarely - maybe once a year - I happen upon one of those books I have to read again immediately upon finishing. For 2013, THIS IS THAT BOOK!! No, that's not right... this book turned the entire series into THAT SERIES. I need to re-read this entire series...

    I LOVE THIS BOOK!!!!!

    OMG. Very rarely - maybe once a year - I happen upon one of those books I have to read again immediately upon finishing. For 2013, THIS IS THAT BOOK!! No, that's not right... this book turned the entire series into THAT SERIES. I need to re-read this entire series again from the beginning and how grateful am I that there are Novellas!! I can't walk away from Elisa - not her, her man, her kingdom, her family, her friendships, her prodigy... none of 'em. I can't. I've unwittingly turned into a fan-stalker-dreamer, whatchamaycallit.

    If this book had not been broken down into four separate climaxes, I might not have slept or fed the family until I'd finished. I'm grateful for those moments of... "Phew! Got that done!" even while I was simultaneously delighted to see how much remained yet to be read. Everything that I've come to enjoy in this series is present. Each character deepens even further. The pace remains fast as each one arrives at conclusions and moves on to face new challenges.

    I highlighted a few (not-telling-where-they're-from) lines on my Nook just to showcase how Rae's writing style is so vivid:
    The icy air feels like tiny knife blades as I draw it into my lungs.
    We lock gazes. The rest of the world fades away, and without saying a word, we say good-bye.
    I felt it... the more I read, the more intensely I felt it until I found myself fully committed to Elisa. She's become one of my favorite heroes in lit. Ever. She's so... down-to-earth REAL. She always sees herself as the overweight trying-too-hard person she begins the series as. Her humility is beautiful. When it looks like low self-esteem, it's endearing.

    I can't reveal any more details of how awesome this book is without spoiling it, and that just isn't an option. I can share one more thing... Rae responded to my fanatical email (very daring of her) with this wonderful snippet:
    Here's a factoid that few people know: My not-serious, working title for the first book was ELISA'S BELLY. Which is ridick, but it helped me to keep in mind that I was subverting genre tropes (ie. the amulet of power) and ought to have a sense of humor about the whole thing. :)
    Wonderful and purposeful!! Even in the most serious of situations there is this uncanny rawness, this sense of reality-is-awkward. The mention of "belly" in particular just cracks me up in a way that feels real. I mean, every time I try to be serious and deep - those are the moments I trip over my shoelaces or run into a pole. For me, this series grasped reality in a new way while being entirely fantastical.

    I love it!

    My Rating: 5.5 - All-time fav. A series for my library!! I really want to keep this treasure of a series to myself. I love it on such a personal level. I'm kind of shy to admit how much I love it. Lol.

    (read full review)
  4. 17 hours ago | Comments (0) | Was this review helpful? Yes (0) | No (0)
  5. Shadowhunter Christina
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  7. Shadowhunter Christina

    Shadowhunter Christina rated a book.

    Girls Love Travis Walker

    • Rated 5 stars

  8. yesterday | Comments (0) | (0 Likes)
  9. Shadowhunter Christina

    Shadowhunter Christina rated a book.

    Wanted

    • Rated 5 stars

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  11. Jacob Donley

    Jacob Donley reviewed a book.

    Seven Princes

    SEVEN PRINCES, by John R. Fultz, was, in many ways, a traditional fantasy story. I often felt like I knew what was going to happen in many of the key points. However, don’t let that deter you from purchasing the book. I thought it was a very entertaining read. I enjoyed the emotions of the main...

    SEVEN PRINCES, by John R. Fultz, was, in many ways, a traditional fantasy story. I often felt like I knew what was going to happen in many of the key points. However, don’t let that deter you from purchasing the book. I thought it was a very entertaining read. I enjoyed the emotions of the main characters, the fight scenes, and much of the back story and histories of the people of this world. I also thought that the idea of ancient people with unimaginable powers would create a nexus of power that couldn't be stopped by any means. I was wrong, and I’m glad that I was wrong. Fultz worked this aspect of magic into the story in a way that made it possible for the plot to continue along a logical path without using Deus Ex Machina to get himself out of a jam.

    I gave this story a 3 star rating. I felt that I really wasn't surprised by the way the story progressed. I did enjoy the story though. I enjoyed the characters and the dichotomy they often showed in their power and personalities. I would definitely recommend that lovers of epic fantasy pick up SEVEN PRINCES and give it a shot.

    (read full review)
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  13. Burgandy Ice

    Burgandy Ice finished reading a book. (see 6 more books added to shelf)

  14. 2 days ago | Comments (0) | (0 Likes)
  15. Under The Covers Book Blog

    Under The Covers Book Blog reviewed a book.

    Summer in Napa

    ~Reviewed by ANGELA & posted at Under the Covers Book Blog

    “Summer in Napa is an exceptional heart-warming foodie romance, and just like the Kissing Under the Mistletoe, this novel is another five star rating.” ~Under the Covers Book Blog

    Ms. Adair had brought a Foodie Romance...

    ~Reviewed by ANGELA & posted at Under the Covers Book Blog

    “Summer in Napa is an exceptional heart-warming foodie romance, and just like the Kissing Under the Mistletoe, this novel is another five star rating.” ~Under the Covers Book Blog

    Ms. Adair had brought a Foodie Romance into this small town story. She had really worked this book to its full potential. She used the wine country as setting, culinary involvement of this community and everything else that comes with small town atmosphere; family history, childhood friends, gossiping neighbors and meddling family members. But most of all, she wrote a story of second chances and first loves.

    Marco is the youngest of the five Delucca siblings and Summer in Napa tells his love story. “He was everything that his brothers were, just more. Taller, bigger, brighter, funnier, sweeter and… sexier.” In deed he is, but one thing he is not is taken, not that he wanted to be. He’s been too busy trying to make his dream come true and playing the field is more his forte. Until his good friend’s ex wife came back to town. Alexis Moreau had always been THE ONE for him. All these years he had stood back and watched Jeff marry his first love only to cheat on her. Now, Lexi is back to rebuild her life in their hometown , and he’d be damned if he’s just going to sit back and do nothing.

    Alexis Moreau was Captain of the cheerleading team, prom queen, valedictorian, and after college, she married well or so she thought. She had caught Jeffrey steaming up the kitchen with her sous chef. Though she is a hot mess right now, she is determined to make her grandmother’s bakery into her very own bistro.

    Ms. Adair had brought another heroine that has risen from a very bad heartbreak. She broke my heart and inspired me at the same time with this story. I love that Lexi was focused on rebuilding her life despite the put down from her ex-husband. Watching her cook and build her bistro from scratch was kind of cool; it was like a day in a life type of story. I’m glad that she found love. If that were to happen to me, I would’ve been jaded like there’s no tomorrow and sworn off men entirely. But knowing that Marc had always felt something for her, made their love easy and not one time that I felt any insta-love between them. I thought all their interactions were sweet, funny and full of innuendos. Marc is the only man that can call a woman names and make is sound flirty than an insult. He can call me “cream puff” any day.

    I’m glad that we have more Delucca siblings to explore. There was a bit of a set up for the next book. Nate who is usually well controlled had a few moments of dumb struck when Frankie was around. And from what I’ve read, Frankie will shock the hell out of him. Abby the Delucca sister was in this book quite a bit. Like Lexi, her ex husband had cheated on her. I am intrigued and curious on how Ms. Adair will give her happy ending, sooner than later I hope.

    Summer in Napa is an exceptional heart-warming foodie romance , and just like the Kissing Under the Mistletoe, this novel is another five star rating. A job well done, Ms. Adair.

    Favorite quote (Spoilers)

    ~“She likes my dog, doesn’t take my crap, and looks at me like I can be the kind of man Dad was. When she cooks…she wears this apron…And I love her so damn much that I have no idea how I’m suppose to wake up tomorrow and pretend like my life hasn’t just fucking ended”

    *ARC provided by Author in exchange for an honest review

    (read full review)
  16. 2 days ago | Comments (0) | Was this review helpful? Yes (0) | No (0)
  17. Under The Covers Book Blog

    Under The Covers Book Blog reviewed a book.

    Sworn to Protect

    ~Reviewed by ANGELA & posted at Under the Covers Book Blog

    Ms. Davis did a fabulous job with keeping me interested throughout this book. I love the balance of suspense, family drama and romance that she brought to this novel." ~Under the CoversBook Blog

    Detective Shane Ford just...

    ~Reviewed by ANGELA & posted at Under the Covers Book Blog

    Ms. Davis did a fabulous job with keeping me interested throughout this book. I love the balance of suspense, family drama and romance that she brought to this novel." ~Under the CoversBook Blog

    Detective Shane Ford just lost his best friend, a famous football star Brad Cooper. His death was questionable and leads show that there may be foul play. Mean while, Shane is left with the care and guardianship over his teenage godson Drew. Poor guy has to adjust to a new school while having to deal with his dad's loss. As a teenager would, Drew acted on what any lost teen would do, rebel and get in trouble with the law. A very rough situation.

    In the sidelines, Daisy Callahan, a juvenile detective offers her service as a friend to Shane. She checked up on Drew and she offered him support in general. But if you read Armed and Dangerous, the prequel to this series, you know that Shane and Daisy had a past together. Daisy cares for him more than he will ever know.

    Ms. Davis did a fabulous job with keeping me interested throughout this book. I love the balance of suspense, family drama and romance that she brought to this novel. The humor and banter were also sweet additions. I love Shane and Daisy. I thought they balanced each other and a workforce romance gone right. Where their sexual attraction was stronger in the prequel, their connection was stronger here. I feel that they connected on a deeper level. Don't get me wrong, there are still plenty of steamy scenes and sexual tension in this book. No worries.

    What surprised me the most is the there were also heart wrenching moments that made me tear up. I mean, this book is not just about the romance; it also focused on Drew's Point of view. My heart just broke for him. It would be nice to actually see an adult story of Drew when he grows up. He has a very personable and intriguing character.

    What I didnt know is that this book is closely related ms. Davis' Fire Fighter of Station Five series. There were some appearances of firemen that peaked my curiosity. Like why was one called Six Pack? I definitely would want to know, so, that series have been moved up on my TBR list.

    Overall, Sworn to Protect is a wonderful start to Sugarland Blue series.

    *ARC provided by Publisher

    (read full review)
  18. 2 days ago | Comments (0) | Was this review helpful? Yes (0) | No (0)
  19. Under The Covers Book Blog

    Under The Covers Book Blog reviewed a book.

    Deadly Charade

    ~Reviewed by ANGELA & posted at Under the Covers Book Blog

    “Deadly Charade is definitely a great addition to Ms. DePaul’s work.” ~Under the Covers Book Blog

    Jaded to his lies and past drug use, Linda Delaney had finally ended her relationship with Tony. Trust was always her...

    ~Reviewed by ANGELA & posted at Under the Covers Book Blog

    “Deadly Charade is definitely a great addition to Ms. DePaul’s work.” ~Under the Covers Book Blog

    Jaded to his lies and past drug use, Linda Delaney had finally ended her relationship with Tony. Trust was always her issue, and it’s just not something she gave easily. Years later, she had built a career that may lead to a position as a judge. Of course, Tony shows up in the courtroom charged with murder and her quiet, safe life is shaken out of order. Being on this case will threaten her reputation as a district attorney, so she gives the case to her colleague. Whether her reasons are due to conflict-of-interest or a way to avoid him completely, it doesn’t matter. The bottom line is their paths had crossed, and there is no turning back. The question is…is she prepared to know what he’s been doing all these years?

    Tony was crushed when Linda left him, but he couldn’t really blame her. Due to his connection with drugs and many other circumstances, he had to let her go. Even after all this time, his feelings have not changed but pursuing Linda is not in his plans. He’s gone too deep into his work, and his goal for revenge and protection is a top priority.

    I had mixed feelings about Linda. She annoyed me when she doubted Tony especially when he needed her most. I feel like she kept expecting the worst from him and I hated that. I can’t say I blame her though; someone you love using drugs is a hard situation to deal with. It didn’t take long for Linda to warm up to me though, and in the end, she proved herself worthy for our hero. After all, Tony truly deserves someone who will support him despite his past. I just love heroes with a dark side, and Tony indeed falls in that category. His dark side comes in a form of past drug addiction and a secret life. I love that he had a weakness, and his love for Linda was his driving force to overcome it. He’s really given up a lot for Linda. There’s nothing like a dose of sacrifice to prove your love, right?

    Overall, I enjoyed Tony and Linda’s story. Deadly Charade is definitely a great addition to Ms. DePaul’s work.

    *ARC provided by publisher

    (read full review)
  20. 2 days ago | Comments (0) | Was this review helpful? Yes (0) | No (0)
  21. Under The Covers Book Blog

    Under The Covers Book Blog reviewed a book.

    The Demon's Song

    4.5 STars
    ~Reviewed by ANGELA & posted at Under the Covers Book Blog

    “Ms. Castle did a fabulous job introducing this new world of fallen angels. The world building is detailed and well thought out.” ~Under the Covers Book Blog

    I am so excited about this new series of Hearts...

    4.5 STars
    ~Reviewed by ANGELA & posted at Under the Covers Book Blog

    “Ms. Castle did a fabulous job introducing this new world of fallen angels. The world building is detailed and well thought out.” ~Under the Covers Book Blog

    I am so excited about this new series of Hearts of the Fallen by Ms. Castle. I knew she was working on something new, but I had no idea it would come out so soon. So, I was excited to know that this has been released. I love Ms. Castle’s Dark Dynasties series I had no doubt I would love this book as well.

    Sohia was in search of her friend Sara for a while now, and when she finds her at an upscale club, she learns Sara has been involved with men that are not of this world. Now, she finds herself in a world of trouble with some rogue vampires and in the mercy of a fallen angel for protection. Not only that she has to accept this new world, she finds herself attracted to her protector.

    After years of being a fallen, Phenex finds solace only when he’s on stage playing his music. He was the “Angel of Song” after all, but now that he is the “Demon of Music”, nothing really interests him. But when he bumps in to Sophia, literally, his existence will change unexpectedly. He will want more, feel more and just want to love.

    The Demon’s song is not as dark as the Dark Dynasties series, but it has a similar feel to it. It’s a paranormal world based on the Fallen Angels. They co exists with Vampires and other shifters in secret from the human world. Ms. Castle did a fabulous job introducing this new world of fallen angels. The world building is detailed and well thought out. The character build up was great as well, though I would’ve liked more background on both Phenex and Sophia. She also gives a good amount of humor, banter, action and romance to this story. I love the fact that this world is closely linked to vampires and shifters which makes the world more diverse and very intriguing.

    I also didn’t know that this was connected to Renegade Angel and Vivi and the Vampire novels. This is a new series, so there’s no need to read them at all. I DO know that Ms. Castle plans to write a book for each of the fallen angels. The Demon’s Desire, which is the second installment of this series, is set to release sometime in the summer. That novel will about Meresin and Dru’s Story.

    *ARC provided by publisher

    (read full review)
  22. 2 days ago | Comments (0) | Was this review helpful? Yes (0) | No (0)
  23. Under The Covers Book Blog

    Under The Covers Book Blog reviewed a book.

    Ours to Love

    ~This UTC Team Review is also posted at Under the Covers Book Blog

    “OURS TO LOVE is a slow-burning, sensual read” ~Under the Covers

    How would you describe OURS TO LOVE in three words?

    Annie: Wicked, Slow-burning, Sensual.

    Francesca: Unexpected....

    ~This UTC Team Review is also posted at Under the Covers Book Blog

    “OURS TO LOVE is a slow-burning, sensual read” ~Under the Covers

    How would you describe OURS TO LOVE in three words?

    Annie: Wicked, Slow-burning, Sensual.

    Francesca: Unexpected. Sexy.

    Readers are familiar with Xander, but Javier, his brother is a newer character. What did you think of Javier?

    Annie: I thought Javier was an interesting character. Right from the beginning of the book, we get a lot of information on his past and what he had endured already. He’s a bit of a tortured hero, so I could tell that Black had a lot of fun with his character. He was so different in personality from Xander, but I also thought they complement each other well. Together, they were almost like a ying and a yang – the perfect balance of men.

    Francesca: First of all, I wasn’t happy that his dead ex wife never came back from the dead. I mean, she had an awesome name I kept wishing she wasn’t the bitch that tore his heart out. Once I got past that, I actually liked Javier maybe even a bit more than Xander. And that’s not what I was expecting because coming into this book I was all about my crush on Xander. But there’s something to be said for the tall, dark and brooding hero who is in control about most aspects of his life but let emotions run deep and sometimes take over.

    Threesome relationships are quite difficult to write. Did you feel that Black did a good job of creating a strong relationship between London, Xander and Javier?

    Annie: I thought Black spent a lot of time on building that trust between London, Xander and Javier. There were no shortcuts taken here and that was very important in forming a strong relationship amongst them all. London has a dark past and isn’t comfortable with the scars she has. So Xander and Javier really had to take their time to allow her to adjust to them physically as well as emotionally.

    Francesca: As Annie said, there is a bit of time spent on the building of trust, and that was extremely necessary. Actually, I would’ve wanted even longer than it was because I still had some problems letting go and believing the trust was there.

    On a scale to one to ten, how would you rate the steaminess?

    Annie: Well, considering that you have two hot brothers I’d say that would put this book in the 7 or 8 range. You really can’t go wrong with a threesome and BDSM thrown in.

    Francesca: I’m going to have to go with a range of 6-8. Yes, it was hot. And yes, there’s a threesome with two hot brothers. But I also had times when I was a bit pissed at what the brothers were doing that might’ve thrown me for a bit of a curve.

    What were your final thoughts to OURS TO LOVE?

    Annie: OURS TO LOVE is a slow-burning, sensual read that deals with darker issues than we’ve seen before in the series. It still has that touch of suspense that I love and expect and there is no question that Black can pen scorching hot sex scenes. Though not my favorite of the series, I still love returning to this world again and again.

    *ARC provided by author

    (read full review)
  24. 2 days ago | Comments (0) | Was this review helpful? Yes (0) | No (0)
  25. Under The Covers Book Blog

    Under The Covers Book Blog reviewed a book.

    Heart of Iron

    ~Reviewed by SUZANNE & posted at Under the Covers Book Blog

    I was a little apprehensive about Heart of Iron could it live up up to my extremely high expectations? In short…YES! It absolutely did, it may have even surpassed them. ~ Under the Covers

    Lena Todd knows she is prey in...

    ~Reviewed by SUZANNE & posted at Under the Covers Book Blog

    I was a little apprehensive about Heart of Iron could it live up up to my extremely high expectations? In short…YES! It absolutely did, it may have even surpassed them. ~ Under the Covers

    Lena Todd knows she is prey in a den of predators, something that becomes more apparent the longer she moves through the Echelon’s world as a debutante; however, she is also a perfect spy, what Blueblood would expect the supposedly empty headed and flirtatious Lena of working for the Humanists? But it soon it becomes hard to see who is friend and who is foe, and the only time she ever feels safe is when she is around Will Carver a Verwulfen who she has had a tendre for since first laying eyes on him, even if he has always pushed her away.

    Kiss of Steel was one of my favourite reads last year, it was packed full of action, adventure, romance and some fantastic characters, so I was a little apprehensive aboutHeart of Iron could it live up up to my extremely high expectations? In short…YES! It absolutely did, it may have even surpassed them.

    Heart of Iron had everything I loved about the previous book, the action and romance as well as a fast paced and interesting plot and has starting developing the world the Bec McMaster has created and added new exciting elements and character in. This book kept me turning the pages not just because I couldn’t wait to see what was going to happen between Lena and Will but also because I wanted to see what would happen in next in the dangerous world that they have been plonked in.

    But the romance…normally I don’t like books about barely 20 and beautiful debutantes but I found I really liked Lena , she may never be my favourite heroine but I also wasn’t overwhelmed with the need to stab her in the eye with something sharp and shiny so it was a win. I did love Will though, he. Was. Delicious. All growly and broody and intense, it gives me the shivers! They made a great couple together, they both saw beneath the veneer that the other showed to the world and made a great couple.

    This was a fantastic book, with an awesome cover and I can’t wait to see what happens next, I am definitely going to be picking up the next book in the series and recommend you give the first book a try if you haven’t already.

    (read full review)
  26. 2 days ago | Comments (0) | Was this review helpful? Yes (0) | No (0)
  27. Under The Covers Book Blog

    Under The Covers Book Blog reviewed a book.

    True

    ~Reviewed by FRANCESCA & posted at Under the Covers Book Blog

    “I was invested and hooked in the story and the characters from the very beginning” ~Under the Covers

    I’ve always enjoyed Erin McCarthy’s writing style, however I was a bit scared to test the waters of this new adult...

    ~Reviewed by FRANCESCA & posted at Under the Covers Book Blog

    “I was invested and hooked in the story and the characters from the very beginning” ~Under the Covers

    I’ve always enjoyed Erin McCarthy’s writing style, however I was a bit scared to test the waters of this new adult novel. The genre is hit or miss for me, especially since it’s plagued with TSTL heroines.

    Rory is smart though. Not only is she book smart, but I think her focus on studying and not being a crazy party girl works in her favor in my eyes. She is more mature than her friends even though she still has the urges they have to experience life.

    Then bring in Tyler. He’s the bad boy from the wrong side of the tracks. What is it about that trope that works for me, I can’t tell you. There’s a vulnerability to his character that he only allows Rory to see, but he’s tough and possessive without being a jerk. He’s sweet and thoughtful. Yeah, you could say not so realistic but I loved his character and was rooting for him the whole way. Always wanting to do what was right.

    The dynamic between Rory and Tyler worked very well. They are so different but they understand each other more than anyone else does. I loved that the author wasn’t scared to go to some darker places without going too deep. I would still consider this a fast and light read that just deals with some tougher subjects.

    And the TRUE tattoo and the TRUER necklace, that was so clever! I can’t wait to see where the other brothers’ stories go from here.

    I think Ms. McCarthy did a wonderful job with this story. I was invested and hooked in the story and the characters from the very beginning.

    *ARC provided by publisher

    (read full review)
  28. 2 days ago | Comments (0) | Was this review helpful? Yes (0) | No (0)
  29. Under The Covers Book Blog

    Under The Covers Book Blog reviewed a book.

    Undone

    Reviewed by Guest Reviewer/Lisa & posted at Under the Covers Book Blog

    “I give this a very enthusiastic 5 stars and will be telling anyone and everyone who listens to me to give it a read, they will NOT be disappointed!” ~Under the Covers

    If you haven’t read the first 3.5 books...

    Reviewed by Guest Reviewer/Lisa & posted at Under the Covers Book Blog

    “I give this a very enthusiastic 5 stars and will be telling anyone and everyone who listens to me to give it a read, they will NOT be disappointed!” ~Under the Covers

    If you haven’t read the first 3.5 books in this series then stop reading right now. While the first 3.5 books may work well as a standalone book, book 4 changes the game! This is the tale of Marianna (Purebred Amoveo) and Pete (Purebred human… or so he thinks).

    When we first meet Marianna of the Kodiak Bear Clan, in Untamed, she is shocked to learn her father’s true role in the Purist Movement (Purist; noun; group of purebred jerkfaces who feel that Amoveo’s should not mate with anyone other than Amoveo’s; i.e. Hybrids, Humans, Other Supernatural Beings, etc.) and now that the Purists have been revealed, runs away to New York to make up her mind about which side her loyalty lies.

    She hangs out in a club in Manhattan run by vampire Olivia and her coven (but that’s a horse of a different color) Now her twin brother Dante is mated with Kerry, a hybrid from the Panther clan, and while she loves her brother, she isn’t sure how she should feel. So Dante hires his friend Pete to protect his sister from both her own reckless behavior and the Purists. Sparks immediately fly between Marianna and Pete which confuses both of them. Up till now, she hasn’t found her mate yet, either in real life or in the dream plane (Amoveo’s first connect with their mate in the dream plane which strengthens the psychic bond that they share).

    Now Pete pretty much just thinks he’s got the hots for her and she could never love a guy like him, after all, he is just a human and not her mate. Well, they are both in for a rude awakening when they find out that things aren’t always as they seem. Ya see Pete, well, Pete is… special… and not fully human, and he isn’t a shifter either… can’t tell ya what he is cause that would give too much away but let me tell you that when you find out, you better hold on to your britches cause they are going to get blown off!!!!

    This story has everything… romance, intrigue, drama, sex (OMG the sex… we are talking on a snowmobile in the middle of winter!!!), mystery, suspense, action, secret babies… I laughed, I cried, I feel like I ran a damn marathon! Sara Humphries has truly created her own world.


    Her next book to be released is Tall, Dark and Vampire, which is a spin off to vampire Olivia’s story and I can’t wait to get my hands on that in August. I give this a very enthusiastic 5 stars and will be telling anyone and everyone who listens to me to give it a read, they will NOT be disappointed!


    *ARC provided by publisher

    (read full review)
  30. 2 days ago | Comments (0) | Was this review helpful? Yes (0) | No (0)
  31. Under The Covers Book Blog

    Under The Covers Book Blog reviewed a book.

    Down London Road

    ~Reviewed by ANN & posted at Under the Covers Book Blog

    Samantha Young has made a loyal fan out of me. I love her authorial voice and her brand of heroes. Smart and sexy, Young writes stories that stay with you long after you flip that last page. ~ Under the Covers

    Johanna...

    ~Reviewed by ANN & posted at Under the Covers Book Blog

    Samantha Young has made a loyal fan out of me. I love her authorial voice and her brand of heroes. Smart and sexy, Young writes stories that stay with you long after you flip that last page. ~ Under the Covers

    Johanna Walker is essentially the mother of her small family. Her real mother is a drunk and is practically useless while her father is simply gone, leaving her in charge of her teenage brother, Cole. Since money doesn’t come easy, Johanna has quite a few jobs to keep her family afloat, but she also dates men who can help provide for her and her brother.

    I know what you’re thinking…she sounds like a gold digger. I initially thought that too, but Johanna isn’t a sleazy chick who simply wants a man for his money. She has a real heart and has become so burdened with responsibilities that she doesn’t correct people when they jump to conclusions as people may have when they hear about her. That’s one of the issues that Johanna has to deal with.

    People like Cameron McCabe like to jump to conclusions as well and while it can make him look like an ass at first, it’s also because Jo allows people to think of her that way. This is where the fun comes in!

    DOWN LONDON ROAD is the sequel to ON DUBLIN STREET and it’s just as hot and sexy as the first book! The main reason is because of one guy named CAM. Oh Cam. At first, Cam and Jo are dating other people but upon seeing each other for the very first time, the sparks between them are like the fourth of July. When Cam requires Jo’s hand to help him snag a job at Club 39, Jo reluctantly helps him out even know he’s been judgmental of her.

    I simply adored Cam and Jo together, but there was one thing that bothered me about it in the beginning. I’m not a fan of cheating and the bits in the beginning simply made it hard for me to sink deep into the romance until the ties were severed. Once they were, I felt like I could breathe easily now and then I was really able to invest in Jo and Cam together without the guilt and the secrecy.

    That being said, their first time together is SMOKING HOT! It’s the no-holds-barred kind of sex that rocks the furniture and the flat. And that is one of the main reasons why I am claiming Cam for my harem. I love him.

    Samantha Young has made a loyal fan out of me. I love her authorial voice and her brand of heroes. Smart and sexy, Young writes stories that stay with you long after you flip that last page.

    *ARC provided by publisher

    (read full review)
  32. 2 days ago | Comments (0) | Was this review helpful? Yes (0) | No (0)
  33. Under The Covers Book Blog

    Under The Covers Book Blog reviewed a book.

    The Cursed

    ~Reviewed by ANN & posted at Under the Covers Book Blog

    Prepared to be entertained, readers! Alyssa Day has a hot one on her hands! THE CURSED is a phenomenal start to what promises to be a stellar series! ~ Under the Covers

    In a brand new series that filled to the brim with...

    ~Reviewed by ANN & posted at Under the Covers Book Blog

    Prepared to be entertained, readers! Alyssa Day has a hot one on her hands! THE CURSED is a phenomenal start to what promises to be a stellar series! ~ Under the Covers

    In a brand new series that filled to the brim with unique and larger-than-life characters, Alyssa Day takes a lighter approach in regards to the personalities of her new leads and it is sure to make readers fall instantly in love with them.

    The very first line of this book aptly sets the tone for the whole book. Allow me to share it with you:


    “Getting stabbed is hell on the dry-cleaning bill.”

    That is said by the hero, Luke Oliver aka Lucian Olivieri aka The Dark Wizard of Bordertown. Here’s what you need to know about Luke… He is Bordertown’s private investigator and he has had dealings in the past with our heroine, Rio Jones (I adore her!). However, Luke was part of the League of the Black Swan and when he receives a picture of Rio one day, he knows that trouble is coming his way.

    Rio is also an interesting character. Not one to be pushed around, it’s so entertaining to see how circumstances bring Rio and Luke together. Luke has some dominant and possessive tendencies and with Rio as a strong and independent woman, maintaining the balance will be just one of the obstacles they have to overcome together.

    When Rio witnesses a kidnapping of a young halfing girl, she asks Luke to her help. Later, the plot all comes together and you’re really able to see Day’s skill as a writer. However, I do wish there was a little more in terms of the plot since a lot of it is spent on the romance and the hilarious antics between the characters.

    That being said, I also really, really loved the sarcastic quips and the hilarious banter that this book has. So I guess in a way, that makes up for it. For the entire book, I was smiling from ear-to-ear and didn’t really want it to end. Prepared to be entertained, readers! Alyssa Day has a hot one on her hands! THE CURSED is a phenomenal start to what promises to be a stellar series!

    Another great thing about this book is all the different supernatural creatures. You have grendals, fae, a freaking wizard and other interesting things. I am also very interested in Alice. Her appearances never failed to bring more laughter into the book.

    I am so excited for this series and am looking forward to where Day will take this series. With unique characters with rapier wit, THE CURSED is sure to make readers fall in love.

    *ARC provided by publisher

    (read full review)
  34. 2 days ago | Comments (0) | Was this review helpful? Yes (0) | No (0)
  35. Under The Covers Book Blog

    Under The Covers Book Blog reviewed a book.

    The Seduction Hypothesis (The Science of Temptation)

    ~Reviewed by ANN & posted at Under the Covers Book Blog

    The chemistry is there, but not as strong as I would hope for in a Dom/sub relationship. ~ Under the Covers

    In the second book of the Science of Temptation series, THE SEDUCTION HYPOTHESIS, Dryden pairs together wildlife...

    ~Reviewed by ANN & posted at Under the Covers Book Blog

    The chemistry is there, but not as strong as I would hope for in a Dom/sub relationship. ~ Under the Covers

    In the second book of the Science of Temptation series, THE SEDUCTION HYPOTHESIS, Dryden pairs together wildlife biologist Lindsey and Ben. Lindsey enjoys reading a comic that is more graphic and deals with BDSM. She gets turned on by it and when she decides to attend a fan convention and dress up as one of the characters, Ben begins to see her in a different light. As a couple, they had it good, but it could have been better and that is explored more fully in this book.

    While I liked both characters, I don’t think I really connected with them. There wasn’t anything that really resonated with me and I wonder if that’s just the characters or the writing. I liked it, but it’s not necessarily my favorite BDSM read. The chemistry is there, but not as strong as I would hope for in a Dom/sub relationship.

    I enjoyed seeing Ivan and Camilla again in this book and seeing updates on how they are doing. If you like the idea of nerds and BDSM together, then this could be something for you. Unfortunately for me, I think the idea of it seems more compelling than what I’ve seen so far in the series.

    *ARC provided by Netgalley

    (read full review)
  36. 2 days ago | Comments (0) | Was this review helpful? Yes (0) | No (0)
  37. Under The Covers Book Blog

    Under The Covers Book Blog reviewed a book.

    The Eternity Cure

    ~Reviewed by ANN & posted at Under the Covers Book Blog

    THE ETERNITY CURE is fast-paced and cutting. Kagawa doesn't take sympathy on her readers. ~ Under the Covers

    THE ETERNITY CURE is book two in the Blood of Eden series and it is much more darker and desolate than the first...

    ~Reviewed by ANN & posted at Under the Covers Book Blog

    THE ETERNITY CURE is fast-paced and cutting. Kagawa doesn't take sympathy on her readers. ~ Under the Covers

    THE ETERNITY CURE is book two in the Blood of Eden series and it is much more darker and desolate than the first book. It hits hard and there are plenty of twists and surprises in store for our dear readers. Get ready for a ride!

    One of the immediate things that popped into my mind while this book was that it had an Urban Fantasy feel to it, especially in terms to Allison's character. Things have changed for her drastically since the beginning of the first book. She is a vampire and carrying her katana, she very much as the feel of a UF heroine - strong, smart and lethal. In THE ETERNITY CURE, Allison must rescue her creator, Kanin from a crazy vampire named Sarren.

    Fast-paced and cutting, Kagawa doesn't take sympathy on her readers. She takes them on a ride that they will never forget. With writing that creates lush imagery and aptly sets the tone of the book, readers will definitely have an emotional connection to this book if they haven't already with the first in the series.

    Death and decay is a thread that pulls this series forward and the Red Lung virus is the latest threat that Allison must face. One of the things I love (and sometimes hate because it makes me cringe) is the detailed descriptions that Kagawa does. She spares nothing and the result is a very vivid, and sometimes crushing imagery for her readers.

    I definitely liked this book more than the first. I've heard others say that this is the best vampire series out there right now in YA. I think I would have to agree. What Kagawa does with this series is wholly her own and she dares you not to have a reaction to the events of her book. Fans of The Hunger Games and Divergent would enjoy.

    *ARC provided by Netgalley

    (read full review)
  38. 2 days ago | Comments (0) | Was this review helpful? Yes (0) | No (0)
  39. Under The Covers Book Blog

    Under The Covers Book Blog reviewed a book.

    The Stillness Of You (Beautifully Damaged)

    ~Reviewed by ANN & posted at Under the Covers Book Blog

    Bale had a huge challenge on her hands, and in the end, I felt that she did a good job of keeping an accurate portrayal of the disorder while making it an entertaining read as well. ~ Under the Covers

    There were a couple of...

    ~Reviewed by ANN & posted at Under the Covers Book Blog

    Bale had a huge challenge on her hands, and in the end, I felt that she did a good job of keeping an accurate portrayal of the disorder while making it an entertaining read as well. ~ Under the Covers

    There were a couple of reasons why I wanted to read this:

    First thing is that Julie Bale is the other pen name of Juliana Stone and as a Canadian author, I definitely wanted to support fellow Canadians. It was also nice to see Bale make the hero, Ben a Canadian and a hockey player.

    But perhaps the big reason why I wanted to read this was because the heroine, Georgina has bipolar disorders. Mental illness has always fascinated me and that’s why I did my undergrad in Psychology. This book fit my interests to the tee and I wondered how Bale was going to face the stigma of mental illness and create a heroine that stayed true to the disorder while also making her likeable. Bale had a huge challenge on her hands, and in the end, I felt that she did a good job of keeping an accurate portrayal of the disorder while making it an entertaining read as well.

    Bipolar is a hard disorder to give your characters because emotions are so intense and vivid, resulting in manic episodes and depressive states. It’s hard to keep those characteristics there while keeping the attention of readers. I thought Bale did show some good symptoms of the disorder, but I also noticed there was a lot of telling, rather than showing. Most of the hard times have passed for Georgina and she feels as if the worst of the storm has passed and she is recovering, so readers only get what is being shared with Georgina. In the present, we don’t actually see too many of the symptoms of bipolar as G falls in love with Ben.

    I also felt that there was a lot of emphasis on the lust aspect than the romance in the beginning. Being flirty and coy is part of the disorder but I didn’t start believing in the romance until more than halfway through the book when Ben remained persisted. The lust in the beginning wasn’t enough until I knew that Ben was there to stay. I loved how unchanging and steady he remained for Georgina. He is definitely what he needed.

    I’ll be looking forward to reading THE CHAOS IN ME, the second book in the Beautifully Damaged series to see where Bale takes her stories next.

    *Copy provided by author

    (read full review)
  40. 2 days ago | Comments (0) | Was this review helpful? Yes (0) | No (0)
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