Thursday, December 19, 2013

Sy reviews: THREE BROKEN PROMISES by Monica Murphy



Title: Three Broken Promises
Series: Drew + Fable #3
Author: Monica Murphy
Genre: NA/Contemporary Romance

~Synopsis~


Commitment. That’s what I really want from Colin. Ever since my brother, Danny, died in Iraq, Colin’s done so much to help me, including giving me a job at his popular restaurant so I can leave my crappy waitressing job at the strip joint. But lying in bed with him every night to comfort him from his horrible nightmares isn’t enough anymore. I know he feels guilty about Danny’s death, about not going to Iraq, but I can’t keep living this double life.

I love him desperately, but he’s got so many demons, and if he can’t open up to me now, then he’ll never be the real partner I need him to be. I gave him a month, and now I’m out of here. If he truly loves me like he says, he knows where to find me.

Add on:
https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/18134894-tears-of-tess?from_search=true

Purchase from:

~Review~

 

Greetings of peace and love and joy!

Are you weirded out by that greeting? Me too. I just remembered that's how our school letters always begin. Hehehe.

Anyway, here's my 3-star review of Monica Murphy's Three Broken Promises. And I'm so sad I couldn't rate it any higher than that. *sighs* Oh well.

I was pretty excited when I got an ARC of this book. I'm a huge fan of Monica Murphy's One Week Girlfriend series and when Jen & Colin were introduced in Second Chance Boyfriend, I was dying to hear their story.

If you are the happy ever after kind of reader then this book is for you. I am a happy ever after kind of reader too. It's just that this story fell short for me. I guess I was looking for a little more challenge and issue between Jen and Colin's love story. I think some of their fights here were not that necessary.

Let me tell you though that Monica Murphy did not disappoint when it comes to writing the sexy scenes. Hee hee. I'm just gonna come out and say here that those were some of my favorite parts of the book. Okay, no judging now. I'm sure you liked them too. Haha! Having said that, I think there were more sexy scenes in this book than deemed necessary. Hey, not that I'm complaining or anything. It's just that I think it was just more than what it should have been.

If there's anything I really love about this book, it's how I felt Jen's sadness and pain. I think the real story, and everything really started to get interesting for me was when Colin found out what Jen had done in the past. And I guess the masochist in me is rejoicing when I got to that part when Jen left. Like I said, I'm a masochist, I get my kicks at these things.

So again, if you're a happy ever after kind of reader that does not really want to be so stressed out with how the characters in the books they're reading are doing, then this book is for you. The ending of this book is so good, by the way, it left me feeling warm and fluffy with love. :)

Here's my Three Broken Promises playlist:
I Never Told You - Colbie Caillat
Impossible - James Arthur
Clarity (acoustic) - Zedd

~Playlist~

I Never Told You is my song for Jen and Colin. How they both are too stubborn (borderline stupid hehe) to not tell one another what they truly feel. Impossible is my song for Colin. This is because Jen can really break his heart without her knowing it. Clarity-when I first heard that Monica Murphy is writing a story about Jen & Colin and I heard this song, I told myself (and I think I tweeted her this too) that this is my Jen & Colin song. There are other books that I almost put this song to as part of my book playlist for reviews but I kinda have grown an attachment to pairing this song and this book. Plus, I think the chorus speaks to Jen and Colin too.

Rating:

  GOLD RECORD

 

 

 

 

 

About the Author 

Monica Murphy is the New York Times and USA Today bestselling author of the One Week Girlfriend series. She writes new adult and contemporary romance for Bantam and Avon. She also writes romance as Karen Erickson. A native Californian, she lives in the foothills below Yosemite. I'm a wife, and a mom. A believer in kissing. A believer of love.

Find Monica online: Website | Twitter | Goodreads | Facebook

Tuesday, December 17, 2013

Release Day Blitz + Excerpt: PIECES FOR YOU by Genna Rulon


Hello there people! So... Genna is back! This time with Sam and Griffin's story (with Huntleigh on the sides). And AGAIN, Genna didn't disappoint with this one! The story is fantastic and made it to our 2013 favorite reads!!!
If you want to read The Bibs reviews, click here for Sy's review and here for Nikki's.
Also, we want to share with you a funny excerpt from PFY to celebrate the release. Enjoy!

~EXCERPT~


I made my way to the kitchen where I spotted Everleigh perched on Hunter’s lap as he fed her an omelet. I grabbed a Greek yogurt from the fridge before joining them at the kitchen table.

“I think I liked you better when you were all reserved and aloof…this touchy-feely Hunter is kind of freaking me out,” I teased.

In reality, I was overjoyed to see my best friend finally receiving the affection and love she deserved. Ev and Hunter’s journey to couplehood had been fraught with secrecy and delayed gratification. At one point, I had debated drugging them both and throwing them into bed together to speed up the process. I was getting sexually frustrated just watching their self-denial…I’m not sure how Ev didn’t combust.

“You are just jealous you don’t have one of Hunter’s famous omelets. My man has many talents—big, impressive talents.”

“Are you offering me a sample of Hunter’s impressive talent?”

Ev nearly spit the coffee out of her mouth.

“Paws off lady, I don’t share.”

“You always did monopolize all the good toys when we were kids, never sharing your Malibu Barbie.”

“For the hundredth time, you had the same freaking Malibu Barbie, along with her Malibu mansion, convertible, coordinating wardrobe, scooter, and whatever other accessories Mattel had marketed that year. There was no reason for you to want my Malibu Barbie,” Ev returned with exasperation. This was an ancient debate, which may pre-date the conflict in the Middle East.

“But your Malibu Barbie had a couture hand-sewn wardrobe and Meme painted Barbie’s nails with that little marker—so stylish…so me.”

“And then mom sewed a coordinating wardrobe for your Barbie and painted her nails. There was no difference.”

“But your Barbie was the first, the trendsetter. Mine was just a copycat wannabe.”

Ev threw her hands in the air dramatically. “I give up! Fine, you want my Malibu Barbie? We can switch. Will that make you happy and finally end this ridiculous debate?”

“No need, I switched them during a sleepover one night. I’ve had the innovative fashionista for the last thirteen years.”

“Are you freaking kidding me? You stole my Barbie? What is wrong with you?” she asked, no longer pretending to be annoyed by our age-old dispute…oops, I probably shouldn’t have fessed up to that particular truth.

I shrugged. “Sorry, but you really didn’t appreciate her. You didn’t even notice when I made the swap—what kind of mother are you?”

Ev lunged across the table and would have caught me if Hunter’s arm hadn’t locked around her waist and hauled her back into his lap.

“Why you—“ Ev didn’t get the chance to finish what was sure to be a scathing reprimand because Hunter’s mouth was on hers in the blink of an eye, distracting her with what I can only say was impressive technique.

When he finally broke the kiss, Ev was glassy-eyed and breathless.

“Would you like an omelet, Sam?” Hunter asked as if he had not just laid a scorching kiss on my best friend seconds before. Bravo, Hunter, bravo.

“You are not preparing breakfast for that…that…Barbie snatcher. Come on, Mr. FBI Man, can’t you drag her down to headquarters and charge her with something? She may have even departed the country with Barbie at some point. That’s a federal offense—do something useful with that badge of yours.”

Hunter rose, somehow managing to hoist Everleigh over his shoulder, and started down the hall.

“Excuse us, Sam. Your best friend evidently needs a reminder of how useful I can be.”

I could hear Ev’s half-hearted protests as Hunter shut her bedroom door. I laughed aloud at their antics. Ev was one of the most determined people I had ever met. She could easily steamroll over most adversaries. It was divine intervention that she fell head over heels for the one man who could best her. He challenged her and she loved every minute of it. They were a unit, stronger together than their individual halves.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Sy reviews: BEAUTIFUL DISASTER by Jamie McGuire



Title: Beautiful Disaster
Series: Beautiful #1
Author: Jamie McGuire
Genre: NA/Contemporary Romance

~Synopsis~


Abby Abernathy is a good girl. She doesn’t drink or swear, and she has the appropriate number of cardigans in her wardrobe. Abby believes she has enough distance from the darkness of her past, but when she arrives at college with her best friend, her path to a new beginning is quickly challenged by Eastern University’s Walking One-Night Stand.

Travis Maddox, lean, cut, and covered in tattoos, is exactly what Abby wants—and needs—to avoid. He spends his nights winning money in a floating fight ring, and his days as the ultimate college campus charmer. Intrigued by Abby’s resistance to his appeal, Travis tricks her into his daily life with a simple bet. If he loses, he must remain abstinent for a month. If Abby loses, she must live in Travis’s apartment for the same amount of time. Either way, Travis has no idea that he has met his match.

Add on:
https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/18134894-tears-of-tess?from_search=true

Purchase from:

~Review~

I know I'm in the minority here when I say I didn't love BD as much as most readers did. Hell, my blog partner, Nikki, loved BD so much and she knows I've been stalling reading it for the longest time she practically gave me her copy and "semi-forced" me, actually, she, along with my other bookworm friends, ganged up on me to read it. So after 48 years of stalling, I finally did.

Here's what I think. I like the story. I like the plot. I like how the author was going as far as storyline is concerned. I love Travis! The only thing that spoiled me from giving this book a higher rating is Abby.
So BD, as I'm sure most of you know by now, is a story about this underground fighter, Travis, who happens to be a smart dude and a man whore too. :) On one of his fights, he saw Abby and to put it sweetly, he found his Home in her.
There are quite a few things I liked in this book. I liked Travis and Abby's friendship in the beginning. I love how playful they were, how they sort of become a unit without them realizing it. I'm a big fan of relationships that started as friendship. I love how the author was able to achieve a strong foundation of friendship for Travis and Abby. Theirs is a friendship that's beautiful. I like how Travis loved Abby in his own possessive way. I am a sucker for book boyfriends who were once a player but becomes this loyal and faithful guy once they meet the one for them.
I just didn't like Abby's character that much. I can understand if she tried to resist Travis but dude, you know you love the guy, whatever principle or reason you have, at least give the guy a chance. What did it for me was when she got jealous and all when Travis brought two girls home. Believe me, I hate it when guys in books cheat. Hate. It. But they were on a break, right? I mean they're not together. She practically shoved him away. And then she got mad when Travis fooled around? Girl, you brought it upon yourself so suck it up. I almost heard Ross (FRIENDS) shouting to Rachel, "We were on a break!" on that part of the book. :)
I love happy endings and even if this book (ehem Abby) frustrated the hell out of me, I'm glad Travis and Abby still got their happy ending.
Here's my Beautiful Disaster playlist:
A Fool To Love You (John Mayer)
Better Man (James Morrison)
Between The Lines (Sara Bareilles)

~Playlist~


Rating:

GOLD RECORD

 

 

 

 

 

About the Author 

Jamie McGuire was born in Tulsa, OK. She attended the Northern Oklahoma College, the University of Central Oklahoma, and Autry Technology Center where she graduated with a degree in Radiography. Her most recent novel, Walking Disaster debuted at #1 on the New York Times, USA Today, and Wall Street Journal bestseller lists. She has also written bestselling contemporary romance Beautiful Disaster, and the Providence series. Jamie now lives in Enid, OK with her three children and husband Jeff, who is a real, live cowboy. They share their 30 acres with six horses, three dogs, and Rooster the cat.
Find Jamie online: Website | Twitter | Goodreads

Sy reviews: TEARS OF TESS by Pepper Winters



Title: Tears of Tess
Series: Monsters in the Dark #1
Author: Pepper Winters
Genre: NA/Contemporary Romance

~Synopsis~


“My life was complete. Happy, content, everything neat and perfect.
Then it all changed.
I was sold.”


Tess Snow has everything she ever wanted: one more semester before a career in property development, a loving boyfriend, and a future dazzling bright with possibility.

For their two year anniversary, Brax surprises Tess with a romantic trip to Mexico. Sandy beaches, delicious cocktails, and soul-connecting sex set the mood for a wonderful holiday. With a full heart, and looking forward to a passion filled week, Tess is on top of the world.

But lusty paradise is shattered.

Kidnapped. Drugged. Stolen. Tess is forced into a world full of darkness and terror.

Captive and alone with no savior, no lover, no faith, no future, Tess evolves from terrified girl to fierce fighter. But no matter her strength, it can’t save her from the horror of being sold.

Can Brax find Tess before she’s broken and ruined, or will Tess’s new owner change her life forever?

Add on:
https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/18134894-tears-of-tess?from_search=true

Purchase from:

~Review~

 

This book is not for the weak-hearted, let me tell you that. I wouldn't say I'm a big fan of books with dark stories or dark plots and I try to stay away from stories with rape in it. So going into this book, I can say I made a huge pep talk to my fragile heart to suck it up and read it. This is not the first time I read a dark story. I've read plenty as a matter of fact (see I'm not that weak after all). Tears of Tess though is the first dark novel I have truly enjoyed and did not leave me feeling like I needed major therapy and counseling session afterwards. :)

This came as a major shocker to me because the content in this book, the things that happened between Q and Tess were not at all easy to imagine and take. I think this even had the most outrageous and wild kind of Dom-Sub context. Surprisingly though I enjoyed it. I did not cringe on the rape scene. Q slapping Tess was a bit of a what the hell moment for me but even that wasn't really a big deal for me. *insert squealing-OMG Q is so hot!!!*

I guess the reason why I loved this story so much was because the characters have captured my heart from the beginning. I like Brax. I felt bad that he couldn't be what Tess wanted him to be, that he wasn't as
sensitive as a loving boyfriend should be, but I love his gentleness, his tenderness towards Tess. I like Tess for her fierceness. She's bold and she is just so badass I feel like standing up for her by shouting "you go girl!" so many times while reading this book. I love Q. Of course I love Q. He was so fucked up that I love him so much for that. I love how the author managed to make these characters so strong and so likeable that even if I was reading the rape scene I didn't stress myself too much and ended up having a migraine and asking the universe "Why? Why did this has to happen?"

Q is so mysterious and he may be damaged but you know and you believe deep inside there's a gentle monster in there (if there is such a thing as a gentle monster though).

I don't even know what more to say but I really love this story and this is the first dark story I gave 5 stars for. And for someone who loves a book with all sweet and happiness and fairy tale with swoon-worthy men (not that Q is not swoon-worthy, believe me, he is, more like swoon-worthy-drool-worthy-
panty-melting hot kind), for me to enjoy and love it this much, that's saying something.

Here's my Tears of Tess Playlist:
Bluebird (Sara Bareilles)
Sugar (Wanderhouse)
All This And Heaven Too (Florence and the Machine)
Between Two Lungs (Florence and the Machine)

~Playlist~

I picked these songs because they all have that air of dark and mystery in them. Also, some of the lines of these songs fit Q and Tess so beautifully. Plus, I love Florence and the Machine, they're my go-to music when I feel dark clouds hovering my heart. ;)

Rating:

DIAMOND RECORD

 

 

 

 

 

About the Author 

Pepper Winters wears many roles. Some of them include writer, reader, sometimes wife. She loves dark, taboo stories that twist with your head. The more tortured the hero, the better, and she constantly thinks up ways to break and fix her characters. Oh, and sex… her books have sex. She loves to travel and has an amazing, fabulous hubby who puts up with her love affair with her book boyfriends. Her debut book Tears of Tess will be followed with Quintessentially Q. You didn’t think Q could stop so soon, did you? Her other two titles, Last Shadow and Broken Chance will be coming soon. She loves mail of any kind: pepperwinters at gmail dot com

Find Pepper online: Website | Twitter | Goodreads

Sy reviews: PIECES FOR YOU by Genna Rulon




Title: Pieces For You
Series: For You #2
Author: Genna Rulon
Genre: NA/Contemporary Romance

~Synopsis~

"The phoenix hope, can wing her way through the desert skies,
and still defying fortune's spite; revive from ashes and rise.” -Miguel de Cervantes

Samantha Whitney survived unimaginable tragedy only to discover she had been betrayed by a man who claimed to love her. Shattered, Sam spends months at a safe haven trying to piece herself back together. Ready or not, the time has come for her to return home.

As Sam struggles to resume a life that no longer feels familiar, she finds unwavering support in an unexpected, familiar face. Confronting Sam’s raw emotions and open wounds head-on, Griffin manages to take two steps forward for every step she retreats.

But when Sam is once again threatened, Griffin must decide how far he is willing to go to protect the woman he wants…knowing the cost of her safety is the risk of losing her.

Pieces For You is a captivating journey of survival, healing, and sacrifice—teeming with honesty, humor, unexpected twists, and love’s unsurpassed endurance.begin to plague Sam, it is Griffin she is forced to turn to.

Add on:

Purchase from:

~Review~

 

I will start off by saying that Genna outdid herself on this book. I said it even before I read the book and I'm so so glad that my gut was right.

Pieces For You is the sequel to Only For You. This is Sam & Griffin's story and if you read OFY then you'd know that something dark and heartbreaking happened to Sam towards the end of that book. I will not say anything more about that because seriously you gotta read that, you wouldn't wanna miss out on Hunter I'm telling you. Anyway, back to PFY. This story is about Sam's healing and Griffin's chance.
If there is one word to describe this book, it's Unexpected. Going into the story of Sam I thought it'll be something dark. I even made a little pep talk to my self so I won't get so stressed out if a scene will be too much for me. Surprisingly, I found myself laughing more on this book. The story has its own sad and painful parts but I guess this book focused on the lesson of healing and moving on and letting go. And I loved how the author did that. There were so many things in this book I did not see coming. My guessing skills were truly tested here. I am not complaining by the way, I'm complimenting Genna, she's good on that keep-guessing-who-the-blank is stuff.

I love how all the characters came together and came out being better versions of themselves here. I think I even fell a little more in love with Hunter on this book. Ah, but Griffin is giving him a tough competition. I mean, how can you not fall in love with a musician who happens to be a barista and a bar owner and a psychologist too? Oh, did I fail to mention he's rocking an 8-pack too?! See? I told you it's hard to pick who the hottest alpha is.

There are also some very pleasant additions to the group which I will totally fangirl over in the coming days and weeks and months. Dear Genna, there might be some begging that will happen. Haha!
There are so many things I totally enjoyed and loved in this book. The banter, for starters, is still there and it's funnier than ever! Of course the 8-pack, how can I miss that? I love how the love and friendship between the characters are magnified in Pieces For You. Their friendship and love made me feel so good it kinda made me envy them too. Haha!

This is such a feel-good book. Yes it has its own heartbreaking parts but there are so much love and happiness pouring out of these characters you would feel like it has seeped into your pores. This book, it holds so much promise of many good, no, great things to come so for that alone I highly recommend this series.

Here's my Pieces For You playlist:
Now Is The Start - A Fine Frenzy
All Time Love - Will Young
Near To You - A Fine Frenzy
1000 Times - Sara Bareilles

~Playlist~

Now Is The Start is my song for Sam when she begins putting back the pieces of her life. All Time Love is my song for both Sam and Griff. Near To You is my Sam song. If you listen to the lyrics, almost every word screams Sam to me. 1000 Times is for Griffin. I can see him doing his own rendition of that song for his Little One.

Rating:

DIAMOND RECORD

 

About the Author 

During her 15 years in the corporate world, Genna, inspired by her love of reading, fantasized about penning her own stories. Encouraged by her favorite authors, many of whom are indie writers and self-published, she committed to pursuing her aspirations of writing her own novels.

Genna was raised in Long Island, New York, where she still resides, surrounded by the most amazing family and friends. Married to a wonderful man, who patiently tolerates her ramblings about whichever book she is currently working on, even feigning interest relatively convincingly! Genna is blessed with two little boys who do their best to thwart mommy's writing time with their hilarious antics and charming extrapolations.

Find Genna online: Website | Twitter | Facebook | Goodreads | Pinterest

Wednesday, November 20, 2013

Promo Post + Giveaway: TEASE by Missy Johnson



Title: Tease
Author: Missy Johnson
Genre: New Adult

~Synopsis~

Male escort.

That got your attention.

Some of the most powerful and well known women in the country pay to have sex with me, some of them married. Some are into more than just straight sex, which is why they call me. Bondage, power play, submission…nothing is off the table. I will do anything for the right price.

The stories I could tell you about a certain high profile congresswoman, or that innocent blonde actress. Trust me, she’s not so innocent.

Guys would kill for my job. I’m living the fucking dream. Meaningless sex, no relationship hang-ups and I’m rolling in the dough. Life is perfect, just the way it is.

Until I meet her.

She changes everything.

She makes me want more than I’ve ever wanted for myself and she believes in me. But she also thinks I sell insurance. I can’t stop what I do, but I can’t give her up.

Eventually, my two worlds are going to collide and when they do, shit will hit the fan.

Add to
https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/18301124-making-faces?from_search=true
Purchase from

About the Author

Missy lives in a small town in Central Victoria with her husband, and her confused pets (a dog who think she's a cat, a cat who thinks he's a dog...you get the picture).

When she's not writing, she can usually be found looking for something to read.

Author links: FACEBOOK TWITTER GOODREADS



COMING DECEMBER 26

Add to
https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/18301124-making-faces?from_search=true

GIVEAWAY

Thursday, November 7, 2013

Sy reviews: MAKING FACES by Amy Harmon



Title: Making Faces
Author: Amy Harmon
Genre: Contemporary Romance

~Synopsis~


Ambrose Young was beautiful. He was tall and muscular, with hair that touched his shoulders and eyes that burned right through you. The kind of beautiful that graced the covers of romance novels, and Fern Taylor would know. She'd been reading them since she was thirteen. But maybe because he was so beautiful he was never someone Fern thought she could have...until he wasn't beautiful anymore.

Making Faces is the story of a small town where five young men go off to war, and only one comes back. It is the story of loss. Collective loss, individual loss, loss of beauty, loss of life, loss of identity. It is the tale of one girl's love for a broken boy, and a wounded warrior's love for an unremarkable girl. This is a story of friendship that overcomes heartache, heroism that defies the common definitions, and a modern tale of Beauty and the Beast, where we discover that there is a little beauty and a little beast in all of us.

Add on:
https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/18301124-making-faces?from_search=true
Purchase from:

~Review~

It's pretty obvious to people who know me that I love reading. So I was a bit worried last week that the year is almost over and I haven't had my best read of 2013 yet. Sure, I've given a lot of five stars in some of the books I've read this year. But still, nothing has tugged at my heart that fiercely. Well, just today the worry has stopped. I have found my best read of 2013 in Amy Harmon's Making Faces.

So here's my review. Well, this is a different kind of review. It's more of a letter with things I wanna say to the characters that touched me.

Dear Paulie,
You're one of my favorite underrated characters. I love how sweet and loyal you were to your friends. I love that one part where you sang to Jesse about the son he hasn't seen. You had me choke up with so much emotions on that scene. I love how even if you were hesitant to sign up for the military, you still did. Because you love your friends, and you were loyal to them. So thank you for reminding us that loyalty is one of the true testaments of a good friendship.

Dear Elliott Young,
You are a great dad. Your vulnerability showed how much love you had for Ambrose. I think you were a great representation of how every dad's pure love is towards their kids (biological or not).

Dear Bailey,
You are the reason why I've been an emotional mess the whole time I was reading the book and even after. I hated you for that. But just like what Ambrose said, you really can't stay angry to the people who said they love you. Oh no, wait, you didn't say you love me. But I love you. And that's kind of the same thing. Many times in this book I wish I had some magic powers to creep inside the story and just high five you then hug you. You were awesome! You were not afraid to say your insecurities but you manage to make light of everything. And for that I admire you and how tough you have been. You were the light in this book. And when the light went out, everything became dark and sad. Dark is fine but sad is not. Sad is not even the right word. Sad does not even measure what I truly felt. What is the word that means 10000x sad? Wretched? Yes, I think that's it. I was wretched. Thank you for reminding me to live every day as if it's my last. To live fully.

Dear Ambrose,
I love a hot guy. So a hot guy who can quote Shakespeare and Hamlet? Jackpot! I guess what I really wanna say is that I blame you and Bailey for reducing me into a blubbering puddle of emotional mess. That scene at the church? God, did you know how many times I had to pause my reading because I was crying too much? You were depicted as a very strong, macho man type of character in this book. So that scene in the church with you speaking, I just lost it and I broke down. I love you and I love how you love Fern and Bailey.

Dear Fern,
I see myself more in you. How you love romance novels, how you escape in reading those books, and yes, how we fall for that one beautiful boy and how that insecurity we feel that we are not pretty enough for him. I got you. Oh boy, do I get you. You have big heart though. And cliche or not beauty on the inside is what really matters in the end. I love how tight your bond was with Bailey, how you took care of him, how you loved him unconditionally. Plenty of times I was crying for you because I felt how hurt you were. Especially in the beginning when your love was unrequited. But just like Bailey, you too are a strong character. And I think I cheered for you in the end as well. If I had pom poms I would've done the whole cheering shebang but you know, I just cheered you on my mind. Haha! The making faces game by the way is the best!

Dear Amy,
I know you're not one of the characters but you wrote this so I'm writing this too for you. What have you done to me?! I don't think I have cried that much in a book. Seriously! My pillow's a mess because it's tear-streaked. My eyes are all red and puffy for too much crying. Even writing this review had me crying. I had to stop several times while reading your book because it was just too much. Your book wrecked me. And in a beautiful way. You wrote a story about love, family and friendship so beautifully and in a way I will never forget. And I wanna thank you for that. Every year I've been on the hunt for that book that will just take me away and just suck me in and make me feel all the highs and lows and Making Faces was all that and more. So thank you. You owe me tons of Kleenex though.

Here's my Making Faces playlist:
Wake Me Up (Ed Sheeran)
Lost And Found (Kim Taylor)
Brave (Sara Bareilles)

~Playlist~



I was thinking of putting just one song for this book. And that's Wake Me Up. The first line of the song reminds me of Ambrose. I decided though to add Lost and Found because the the mood of that song fits the story, and Brave for some positivity.

And oh, by the way, in case I wasn't clear enough, this book is highly recommended. This is the kind of book you want everyone to read because you want them to feel the emotions you felt when you read it. This wasn't just a great read, this was an experience. And you want everybody else to not just read Making Faces but experience them.
Rating:

DIAMOND RECORD

 





About the Author 


Amy Harmon knew at an early age that writing was something she wanted to do, and she divided her time between writing songs and stories as she grew. Having grown up in the middle of wheat fields without a television, with only her books and her siblings to entertain her, she developed a strong sense of what made a good story. Amy Harmon has been a motivational speaker, a grade school teacher, a junior high teacher, a home school mom, and a member of the Grammy Award winning Saints Unified Voices Choir, directed by Gladys Knight. She released a Christian Blues CD in 2007 called "What I Know" - also available on Amazon and wherever digital music is sold. She has written five novels, Running Barefoot, Slow Dance in Purgatory, Prom Night in Purgatory, the New York Times Bestseller, A Different Blue and Making Faces. 
Website | Twitter | Facebook | Goodreads

Nikki reviews: MAKING FACES by Amy Harmon



Title: Making Faces
Author: Amy Harmon
Genre: Contemporary Romance

~Synopsis~


Ambrose Young was beautiful. He was tall and muscular, with hair that touched his shoulders and eyes that burned right through you. The kind of beautiful that graced the covers of romance novels, and Fern Taylor would know. She'd been reading them since she was thirteen. But maybe because he was so beautiful he was never someone Fern thought she could have...until he wasn't beautiful anymore.

Making Faces is the story of a small town where five young men go off to war, and only one comes back. It is the story of loss. Collective loss, individual loss, loss of beauty, loss of life, loss of identity. It is the tale of one girl's love for a broken boy, and a wounded warrior's love for an unremarkable girl. This is a story of friendship that overcomes heartache, heroism that defies the common definitions, and a modern tale of Beauty and the Beast, where we discover that there is a little beauty and a little beast in all of us.

Add on:
https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/18301124-making-faces?from_search=true
Purchase from:

~Review~

I've been on a hiatus writing book reviews. I owe myself a lot of reviews actually. Can you believe it? I haven't written any reviews for more than a month! Lame, Nikki. I'm too stressed out with work and shit even my reading pace was affected. But here I am, rising from the hibernation because I can not NOT write a review for this book, that would be a crime.

There are books that would totally make you cry, but then after a day, you'd move on with your life and look for another one that could break your heart again. There are a lot of that.

And then there are books that would totally make you cry, all Kleenex gone like there's a shortage of supply around the world. A day after you've finished reading you still find yourself being dragged back to the world that that book created, breaking your heart all over again just thinking about the story. After two days you wake up and feel like "Okay, I think I can start moving on from the story. What to read next?" and still you can't find anything that could totally, totally make you get over a hangover that that certain book has caused you. After a week of trying to start reading a number of books, you can't focus on any of it and haven't finished reading anything, your mind wanders back to the last book you've read breaking your heart again, this time into million of pieces and you have no fucking idea how to piece it back together. There aren't many books like that, but MAKING FACES is one of them.

I devoured Making Faces two straight nights when I was in bed, all my emotions stirred up like a hurricane decided to wreck havoc inside my body. It was one of the most beautiful stories I've ever read. It was all about friendship and unconditional love and more. It was all about finding true beauty in a world of madness. It was..... God, I have no words how to describe this book. I knew me writing a review for it won't make justice but as you can see, I am trying my best.

It started like the usual romance story, a beautiful and well-liked boy oblivious to the existence of a normal but sweet girl. A girl with the biggest heart that nurtures unconditionally. A girl named Fern whose love for her cousin Bailey knows no bounds. She always had a thing for this beautiful and popular boy named Ambrose. She put him on the highest pedestal, like a god or something who's too out of reach for her. Although she finds herself not pretty to deserve a second glance, she has something beautiful inside of her that she doesn't even realize she has: her compassionate heart.
The story of MAKING FACES unfolds beautifully and you will find yourself so immersed in it you'd have difficulty separating your real world from it. It's a story that would fuck with your emotions in a painful but wonderful way.
The synopsis is well-written and when you read it you just want to give it a chance. You give in to your desire to read something without having a clue that the story you're about to read would turn you into a blabbering mess. Half-way through the book, you hope that by the end of the story you still could come out of it unscathed. But you are wrong in so many levels. There is no way you'd finish this story and come out of it empty handed. There are a lot of painful stuff in it, but it was delivered in a way that you would want to experience the pain and not ran away from it. You'd embrace the hurt, because in this book? Pain is equated to a marvelous experience of the different forms of love.
Making Faces playlist:
Echo (Jason Walker)
Hope You Found It (Jason Walker)
Cry (Jason Walker)
In Loving Memory (Alter Bridge)

~Playlist~



The other day I was looking for songs that I could put into my MAKING FACES playlist and I ran into Jason Walker. I started listening to his songs which are mostly heartbreaking and it fit perfectly to my mood when I was writing this review. So yeah, three songs in the playlist is by Jason. I tried looking for a more happy vibe song or a love song for Ambrose and Fern but all I could think about is Bailey, Paulie, Jesse, Grant and even Beans. So sorry if all the songs I picked are sad songs but hey, they're beautiful songs though.
P.S. Thank you to my blog partner for recommending this book to me. I owe you one. And thank you Amy for writing this. And yeah, you owe us a box or two of Kleenex. ;)
Rating:

DIAMOND RECORD

About the Author 


Amy Harmon knew at an early age that writing was something she wanted to do, and she divided her time between writing songs and stories as she grew. Having grown up in the middle of wheat fields without a television, with only her books and her siblings to entertain her, she developed a strong sense of what made a good story. Amy Harmon has been a motivational speaker, a grade school teacher, a junior high teacher, a home school mom, and a member of the Grammy Award winning Saints Unified Voices Choir, directed by Gladys Knight. She released a Christian Blues CD in 2007 called "What I Know" - also available on Amazon and wherever digital music is sold. She has written five novels, Running Barefoot, Slow Dance in Purgatory, Prom Night in Purgatory, the New York Times Bestseller, A Different Blue and Making Faces. 
Website | Twitter | Facebook | Goodreads

Tuesday, October 15, 2013

Blog Tour: ONLY FOR YOU by Genna Rulon



If you're following our blog and Twitter, you probably know how much we love Hunter and Everleigh from Only for You. We actually christened ourselves as the godmothers of Genna's debut novel. Haha! As much as we are thrilled for having the chance to read and review this book, we are much more thrilled to be part of the OFY blog tour!

Genna was so generous and sweet to agree to have a character interview for our stop and we can't wait to share with you what happened when we interviewed Hunter and Ev!

Warning: You may experience major swooning.

Before you go and read on please be warned that this interview has MAJOR spoilers because we wanted to delve into specifics when doing this. Sorry. But the bright side is, you might want to read the book if you want to read this interview so bad! We mean, you SHOULD definitely read the book!!!

And to those who have read OFY, on behalf of Genna, thank you so much. This interview's for all of you who have loved Hunter and Ev's story like we did!

Enjoy!

For The Bibs's OFY book review and playlist, click here for Nikki's review and here for Sy's review.



******************************INTERVIEW******************************



The Bibs: Hi guys! Welcome to our little book blog! We are so thrilled you agreed to this interview. Thank you for that. We really really adore you both. We understand that Griff and Sam couldn't make it. But maybe some other time, like when their story is out? Hi Sam and Griff! You're both welcome to our blog if you feel the need to talk about anything and everything!

So... Let's get down to business and we wanted to ask Hunter first. You sent Everleigh out on the first day of the self-defense training when she made some snide remarks, but what did you really think of her? Be honest! Don't edit or censor your answers just because Ev is here and you want to impress her

Hunter: *chuckles* I noticed her the minute I walked into the room. I can't explain it, but she just stood out. When I overheard her snarky comments to Sam, it took everything I had in me to control my desire to laugh. If I hadn't been responsible for the training of the group as a whole, I would have joined in her laughter, but I had an obligation to do everything in my power to teach the girls how to protect themselves. Everleigh was my sacrificial lamb to ensure no one else made light of the goal. But between us, I wanted to throw her down on the mat and silence her in far more pleasurable ways.

Everleigh: You could have fooled me…you acted like the asshole I accused you of being. Are you just making up as you go along so you can get lucky later?

Hunter
: Angel, you and I both know I’ll have you later either way. I’m just telling Nikki and Sy the truth.

The Bibs: Oh wow. Okay, maybe we don't need to remind you about censorship? Haha. We don't do censorship here *wink*. Second question is still for Hunter. If your family hasn't influenced you, do you still see yourself so passionate about anything martial arts related?

Hunter: I would like to think so. Martial art—the discipline it requires—is well suited to my temperament, but it's hard to know for certain. It was a great way to get girls as a high school kid, so maybe *winks at Ev*.

*Ev rolls her eyes in return*

The Bibs
: Hmmm.. I think Ev will agree with us that by merely existing, you have girls flocking to your direction, yes Ev? Haha

Everleigh: Please don’t encourage him. You have no idea what it’s like going out in public with him. Every time I glance over my shoulder I see a sea of dumbstruck women in our wake—not that I blame them. His packaging is breathtaking, but what’s inside is even better.

The Bibs
: Ohhhh… Do you see our drool over here? We’re wiping it now. Haha! So Hunter, do you see yourself doing something else aside from being an agent? And no, you can't tell us you'd be a sensei because you're already one. Pick another choice. One that'll surprise us.

Hunter: Hmmm. I have a strong desire to protect. I suppose saying I would be a cop would be cheating too...you two are strict. I would probably be a social worker, it would provide the opportunity to protect and still allow me to be active. I can't imagine spending all of my days sitting behind a desk, I need movement.

The Bibs: Okay, we are literally swooning here. Why do you have to be all cute and all that?

Hunter: It’s a curse *smirks*

The Bibs: Anyway, this we are very much interested to know the answer to this question, was it love at first sight with Everleigh? Do you think what you two have is for keeps?

Hunter: It was definitely lust at first sight *looks at Ev and grins*. The love came a little later, probably when she took me to task for suspecting she was going to poison me at Higher Yearning. It was the first time I had seen the sweetness that could temper her fire. It was intoxicating. I KNOW what we have is forever. I wasn't exaggerating when I told Everleigh she was "it" for me. There would never be another that resonated with me the way she does *holds Ev hand*. Any other woman would just be a pale substitute.

Everleigh: Oooooo, that is so sweet. You know I love you, right? Because I do, with everything I have. *kisses his lips gently*

*Hunter grabs Ev’s head and serves up an R-rated kiss*


The Bibs
: Ohmygod. Did we just really witness that?! I mean. Okay, you two get a room! Haha! Well, maybe after our interview. Next question! If you could live a life of another person for one day, whose life would you want to experience?

Hunter: In real life...Dog the Bounty Hunter. That guy is badass! If it could be a fictional character, probably Hawk Delgado from "Mystery Man" by Kristen Ashley. He has his own army and rescues hostages for a living. Plus he knows how to control a stubborn woman, which would come in very handy with Ev *winks at Ev*

*Ev elbows him in the ribs*


The Bibs: Do you really have to mention a KA alpha male?! We already turned into puddles by just your existence and then you have to say that?! Not fair, Hunter, not fair. *Bibs shake their heads in unison*

So let's get a bit more serious and talk about Sam. What was going on in your mind when you found out what happened to Sam?

Hunter: When Ev called me, alarm bells started ringing in my head. Of all of us, Sam was the most reliable with texting her every move. The fact that she was late and hadn't contacted Ev or Robbie was such a departure from her routine…I feared the worst. When I received the call that a victim had been found I knew it was Sam beyond any doubt. I was devastated, I had grown to love Sam, like an annoying little sister, and the thought of what she had suffered—if I had known who the perp was at the time, he wouldn't be breathing now. Then I remembered I would have to tell Ev, and my heart dropped. I knew it would kill her and I would have to be the one to deliver the news and prepare her for what would follow. I promised myself I would do everything in my power to support Everleigh, help take care of Sam, and ultimately catch the bastard who had done it.

The Bibs: How did you feel when you saw her in the woods?

Hunter: *looks at Ev seriously* There are no words. I have encountered enough death and violence as an agent that I should be desensitized, but when it’s someone you care about…someone the person you love cares about—it was like a grenade of emotions was set off in my head. Anger, concern, regret, love, sorrow…they all converged. It was too much to process, so I focused on getting Ev where she needed to be, gaining basic details from the officers on duty, and hauling ass to the hospital.

The Bibs: We can't say we know how it feels like because we haven't experienced it but just thinking about it is really really hard, what more for you guys. What we can say is we understand. Thank you Hunter for answering those questions so truthfully. We still have so many questions, so many that it could actually be compiled into a book. Maybe some other time? But now we have to hear Everleigh’s thoughts. And this could get interesting.

So Ev, what was really going on in your mind when you found out Hunter's real job?

Everleigh: You may need to edit this for your readers if I answer you honestly... "That mother-fucking-son-of-a-bitch-ass-munching-bastard-douche-bag-cock-sucker!" That is actually the cliff notes version. I was already heartbroken, and discovering his deceit was a betrayal I could barely process. I had always believed—in a small dark corner of my mind—that we would find our way to one another, that he truly loved me. When I heard the news that hope died, and I was destroyed. I didn't know if I would ever feel whole again. It was the lowest moment of my life when combined with watching Sam suffer.

*Hunter wraps his arm around Ev’s shoulders and pulls her into his side, kissing the top of her head and stroking her arm, offering silent comfort and support*

The Bibs: Ahhhh.. So sweet you two. Back to us Ev.. Haha! Do you think Hunter is "the one"?

Everleigh: He damn well better be after all I went through to get here. It's hard to explain unless you have found what we have; he is my best friend, my support system, my lover, my love...he is the part of me that always felt empty...a loneliness that was never filled by anything or anyone else. *looks Hunter in the eyes* He fits me, like puzzle pieces.

Hunter: Do you see this Bibs? Under all that fire and snark she is the epitome of tenderness. She commits her whole-heart to everything she does; Thank God she chose to give that heart to me. I am a lucky man.

Everleigh: Now you are definitely getting lucky tonight. *Ev laughs while stealthily wiping a tear from her eye*

The Bibs: Uh-huh, yeah. Major swooning over here. Well this next question is interesting, Hunter inked his skin with your name, do you plan to get a tattoo as well or do something permanent similar to what he did?

Everleigh: I never actually thought about getting ink. I'm not opposed to the idea. I am certainly confident enough of my love for him and him for me to make the permanent commitment that a tattoo would imply. I just don't know what I would get, that spoke of my love for him as beautifully as he did. See, he always has to one up me...if he had just tattooed "Everleigh" on his damn chest I could just answer "Hunter" and life would be easy. But no, my man has be all creative and sentimental, making it impossible for me to equal his gesture. See what an asshole he can be. Freakin' show-off.

Hunter: *chuckles* When will you just accept that you can’t best me, I beat you when I’m not even trying, you just admitted it. You’re setting yourself up for a life of disappointment if you keep trying to win, besides I can think of another way to memorialize your love and commitment to me other than inking your beautiful skin.

The Bibs: Can we turn you both into key chains or something? You two are so cute we want to bring you everywhere! Haha. So Ev, let’s talk more about you and Sam. We adore your friendship with Sam so much and I know you'll do anything for her. But to what extent?

Everleigh: There is virtually nothing I wouldn't do for Sam. She really is my sister, closer than most sisters. I would never give up Hunter for anyone--but she would NEVER ask that of me--so I can't imagine what I wouldn't do for her. I would kill to protect her (don't tell Hunter I said that, he'd probably have to file a report). I would fight to save her, even if it meant fighting Sam herself. I would even meddle to direct her where she needs to be when she doesn't know what's good for her *fake coughs* Griffin *fake coughs* (In perfect stereo Hunter also said “Griffin”)

The Bibs: You really love Sam just what we thought. That is so sweet of you. We’re sure Sam will be reading this and probably cry a tear or two. What you said was just beautiful.

So Ev, just like want we've asked Hunter: If you could live a life of another person for one day, whose life would you want to experience?

Everleigh: Juan Valdez...all that delicious coffee surrounding him every minute of every day...mmmmmmmmmmmmmmm.

Hunter: *laughs* I’m going to fill a bathtub with lukewarm coffee for her one of these days, hand her a straw, and let her go to town.

Everleigh: *gasps* That is a freakin’ genius idea!

The Bibs: *Nikki looks at Sy* Cute right? For the last question, This goes for the both of you. So it's not a secret the we love music to death. Well it's so obvious since we decided to integrate music into our book blog. Well anyway, we are not talking about us and since we're talking about music, we just had to ask you this. If there is a song that reminds you of each other what would it be? Hunter first.

Hunter: She’s Every Woman by Garth Brooks is the song that most reminds me of Ev, it sums her up perfectly. *kisses Ev’s neck, just behind her ear*

The Bibs: Here we go again with the swooning. Enough of that Hunter, you two can continue that later after the interview. Ev?

*Hunter laughs*

Everleigh: It depends on the day…there are still some days I would say “Sweet As Hole” by Sara Bareilles *elbows Hunter in the ribs* I’m kidding *mouths ‘No I’m not’ to Nikki and Sy*

I think the song that best describes Hunter for me is When You Say Nothing At All the Alison Krauss version. I love the Keith Whitley version too, but since it’s my feelings about him Alison’s is more appropriate.

The Bibs: Nice song choices! Well that’s it folks. Thank you very much Hunter and Ev for gracing our little book blog and actually spent time answering some questions. We really appreciate and know that we love you both and we hope we can do this again.

We weren’t able to drag Sam and Griff but we sent a question to Griffin over email and a message to Sam and we thought of sharing it as well. So guys, read on.

The Bibs
: So Griff, why didn't you make a move on Sam before? Yes this is just one question and a bold one.

Griffin: Because I'm a know-it-all dumb ass. I figured I would finish up my final masters courses before making my move so I would have the time to pursue her with focused attention, and as a result I missed my window. When I think of what I could have prevented if I had stopped trying to manage the situation—FUCK! I may never forgive myself.

The Bibs: Sam, we decided not to ask questions for you because we're eagerly waiting for your own story. We just want to tell you how much we admire your strength. You're one in a million, Sam. Not all women can endure what you've gone through and come on top of it. You're a survivor.

Sam: Thanks ladies...your support is amazing. I'm still not quite ready to talk about it all yet.

**********************************END**********************************


Thank you guys for taking the time to read and get to know Hunter and Ev more. This book is highly recommended by us. So if you haven't read it, below is your chance to win an e-book copy from the author herself. Thanks Genna for your ever generosity! We love you!

We can't wait for Griff and Sam's story! Add it to your Goodreads bookworms! ❤❤❤









a Rafflecopter giveaway

Friday, October 11, 2013

Sy reviews: SEARCHING FOR SOMEDAY by Jennifer Probst



Title: Searching for Someday
Series: Love Spells #1
Author: Jennifer Probst

Kate has given up on love—at least for herself. She is both blessed and cursed with the ability to sense a romantic connection between two people—a gift that her family passed down for generations. When Kate launches her own matchmaking company, Kinnection, with her two best friends in a cozy New York town, she has to put aside her own romantic disasters to make her business a success.

But when a furious man stalks into her office and accuses her business of being a scam, Kate is given the ultimate challenge to prove herself. Slade puts himself in her hands and asks Kate to find him love. Enraged at his arrogance but stubbornly eager to prove herself, Kate agrees, dedicating herself to the journey of finding him love...only to find herself falling for him along the way.

Add on:
Purchase from:

~Review~

I'll start this by saying thank you for giving me a chance to get an advance reading copy of this book.

Searching for Someday is a story about Kate. She owns this matchmaking service called Kinnections. She believes in love and happy ever afters. This is also a story about Slade. He is a divorce lawyer. He on the other hand does not believe in love. Let's just say that Kate & Slade have opposite beliefs in love and that them being together spells a complete recipe for relationship disaster.

Kate, for me, is not really well-liked. Many times I felt so frustrated with her character. But there were also times when I felt really sorry for her. Slade on the other hand though, I felt is a strong character. I love how honest he has been. He had a lot of prick slash jerk moments on the book but that's the reason why I totally dig this story. I love how the author made these characters repel each other yet managed to still pull each other together.

I like how Jennifer continues to tell a side story about strong family ties. Yes, this is a story about love but just like in her other series (Marriage to Billionaire), I appreciate how she tells the readers how important a family's love is. She may not outright discuss it in her books but you always feel that it's there.

You know how they say, "ahh, the feels on this book." Well, I felt that here. And there were parts in this book that really tug at your heart. But my favorite would be where this line was mentioned:

Just because someone was broken doesn't mean they should be thrown away.

I think every person has felt broken at some point in their lives, I know I have so that line just hit it home for me. And when I got to the epilogue, that beautiful epilogue, I think my heart was torn in pieces and put back again at the same time.

Here's my Searching for Someday playlist:

I Knew You Were Trouble (Avril Lavigne)
Love Is A Verb (John Mayer)
Ho Hey (The Lumineers)

~Playlist~



All those songs are my Kate's song for Slade. There are some lines on each of those song that really fit them.
Rating:

PLATINUM RECORD

 





About the Author 

Jennifer Probst wrote her first book at twelve years old. She bound it in a folder, read it to her classmates, and hasn’t stopped writing since. She took a short hiatus to get married, get pregnant, buy a house, get pregnant again, pursue a master’s in English Literature, and rescue two shelter dogs. Now she is writing again. She is the NYT and USA Today bestselling author of The Marriage Bargain. She is published both erotic and sexy contemporary romance with Entangled, Decadent, Red Sage and TWRP. She has also written a children's book, Buffy and the Carrot, co-written with her twelve year old niece, along with a short story, "A Life Worth Living."
 Website Twitter | Facebook | Goodreads