Monday, September 30, 2013

Sy reviews: FOUND IN YOU by Laurelin Paige




Title: Found in You
Series: Fixed #2
Author: Laurelin Paige

Alayna Withers has only had one kind of relationship: the kind that makes her obsessive and stalker-crazy. Now that Hudson Pierce has let her into his heart, she’s determined to break down the remaining walls between them so they can build a foundation that’s based on more than just amazing sex. Except Hudson’s not the only one with secrets.

With their pasts pulling them into a web of unfounded mistrust, Alayna turns to the one person who knows Hudson the best—Celia, the woman he almost married. Hoping for insight from someone who understands all sides of the story, Alayna forms a bond with Celia that goes too far—revealing things about Hudson that could end their love for good. This is the first relationship where Alayna hasn’t spiraled out of control. And she might lose Hudson anyway...

Add on:
Purchase from:
Amazon

~Review~


I got an ARC for this book which I think I almost begged (hahaha) to get one and thankfully, Laurelin Paige was kind and generous enough to send one my way. I wouldn't get into details since the author knows this already but this book has kept me sane at a very trying time in my life and I couldn't thank her enough for that. Indeed, books and a great love story take people in a special place.

Found In You is the second installment of the Fixed series. And there may be a lot of billionaire series out there so I guess that's the in thing today but the Fixed series has something different to offer and for that I am totally digging it.

I love how Hudson is just the right kind of that perfectly imperfect character. And the secrets - I really believe that the secrets revealed on this book and those that were left unsaid were perfect. I didn't feel like it was too much or that I had to know more.

I also like how I lost count of how many times I'd like to strangle Alayna on this book. I actually am torn because one minute I love her then the next I'm hating on her because she had her stupid moments (sorry hehe). But in the end, I just gotta admire her. I love how honest she was with what she feels. Even in the first book, I bowed down at her honesty and kudos to Laurelin for creating a female character that is tough enough to voice what she feels. And even if I felt somewhat sorry for her at certain parts of this book, I didn't feel that sorry for her that long because, well, I really think she came out strong several times.

I also appreciate how playful Hudson and Alayna (especially H) have become on this book. I think I was missing that on Fixed On You but I'm glad I got that here. And what can I say, I had a change of heart when it comes to Brian on this book. No change of hearts for Sophia right there and damn I knew it Celia was a total fake. Ugh, that bitch!

This book has really delivered a great message on trust in a relationship. It was done in a way that every little and big secrets have build up until you yourself would say, "the shit has really hit the fan." And I think this book has stressed me out so much that that lesson would stick to me. Hahaha!

Here are some of my favorite parts of the book:
1. Spanking - Okay, I may like the whole Dom/Sub theme in some of the books I've read but I'm still not a big fan of spanking. The spanking on this book though was done in a light way. It showed Hudson's playful side so that makes it my favorite.
2. Library - Who wouldn't fall for a man who gives you your favorite books and DVD copies of the movies you wanna watch before you die? Yes, he's a hot billionaire but for someone who loves to read, a man giving you books is like a guy giving you hearts and flowers.
3. The un-Iloveyou - As you all know, I am a masochist so I kinda get my kick at being hurt so expecting Hudson to say I love you in this book and not getting it hurts me a lot but I like it. Haha! I'm weird that way.

I think the story ended so well. Even with the cliffhanger, I think it was the right kind of ending. I seriously cannot wait for Forever In You
So here's my Found In You Playlist:
Basket Case - Sara Bareilles
Only You - Matthew Perryman Jones
Need You Tonight - Ben Rector
What If I Told You - Jason Walker
I Won't Let You Go - James Morrison
Flaws - Bastille
Sweet As Whole - Sara Bareilles


~Playlist~


I think Flaws is the perfect song for Hudson and Alayna. Basket Case is my song when Hudson was in Japan after all the mess that happened in the penthouse. Only You is my Hudson's song for Alayna because just like Hudson kept on telling Alayna, it has always been her and that he's with her, always. If I Told You is my song for all their secrets (make that H's secrets). Need You Tonight and I Won't Let You Go are my other Hudson's songs for Alayna and Sweet As Whole is my song for Celia. Yup, you read that right. I couldn't find a song that would fit hatred towards a female so this would do.
Rating:

PLATINUM RECORD








 

About the Author:

Laurelin Paige is a sucker for a good romance and gets giddy anytime there’s kissing, much to the embarrassment of her three daughters. Her husband doesn’t seem to complain, however. When she isn’t reading or writing sexy stories, she’s probably singing, watching Mad Men and the Walking Dead, or dreaming of Adam Levine. She is represented by the wonderful Bob Diforio of D4EO Literary Agency. Author social media links: Website | Twitter | Facebook | Pinterest

Thursday, September 26, 2013

Nikki reviews: ONLY FOR YOU by Genna Rulon




Title: Only For You
Series: For You #1
Author: Genna Rulon

“In its purest form love is self-sacrificing, eternal, selfless, enduring, truthful, forgiving and indulgent. It also feels an awful lot like a kick to the stomach when you try to fight it!”

All Everleigh Carsen wanted to do was complete her final semester at Hensley University and begin the life she carefully planned.

When a wave of violent crime seizes campus, Everleigh is persuaded to attend a school sponsored self-defense seminar by her best friend, where she meets volunteer instructor, Hunter Charles. After Everleigh’s biting sarcasm induces Hunter to eject her from class, a tempestuous relationship is born.

Everleigh is determined to forget the striking man, but fate—that fickle shrew—continuously intervenes. Unable to escape him, she declares Hunter an enemy combatant. The only complication…Hunter is resolutely pursuing vindication…by any means necessary. Verbal warfare ensues, and despite Everleigh’s ingenious efforts, in Hunter, she has finally found her equal.

Only For You is a compelling tale of friendship, desire, and redemption—brimming with intelligent characters, witty dialogue, unexpected twists, profound sorrow, unfettered hope, and love’s unassailable perseverance.

Add on:

Purchase from:

~Review~


Soooo... First I need to say this before anything else: Thank you Genna for finding our little book blog! You don't know how I really felt when I read your email one day requesting us to review your work. Sy and I were so thrilled. Our blog isn't as big as those well-known book review blogs. We're not full-time book reviewers like those famous book bloggers but you found us and actually considered us writing a review for your debut novel. I think it was destiny. Fate had intervened for us to meet Hunter. ;-) Thank you from the bottom of our hearts. It was a pleasure. And congratulations on your debut novel!

Only For You: Suspense, romance and friendship rolled into one.

Hunter and Everleigh, ohmygod. They are so cute together, and frustrating. Well frustrating because I didn't know what was happening  and why Hunter was acting like a douche so I was so frustrated (I sure as hell thought I have everything figured out, but then...). It's like I want to send them to a remote island, tie them to a tree until they admit to one another what their true feelings were. Really. I was ready to give up on them when Genna decided to drop a bombshit and I was like, "Uhuh, oh yeah. Wait, what?! Are you kidding me?!" HOLY SHIT. Oh yes, that was the exact words I tweeted. Of course Hunter has reasons and now I can't be frustrated with them. I can just swoon. Because, well.. because. Read it to know what the hell I am talking about. I know, I'm a tease.

As for the suspense/thriller part, who wouldn't love some kinda CSI to read?! I mean, hello people, solving a crime would always be a human fascination. The story revolves around Hensely campus with a psycho on the loose, every female student a target. The suspense was literally killing me while reading the book. And then the story got to a part where it was so hard for me to breathe, when Sam, Ev's bestfriend, was attacked. It was so so heart-breaking because I've grown to love Sam and unconsciously set my mind that she and Ev would definitely be spared from the horror of it all. To be honest, I was more affected to what happened to her than the direction of Hunter and Ev's relationship was going. I was in pain for her, and in awe on how strong she proved she was.

I was in love with Sam and Ev's friendship. How they've always got each other's back. And when the worst thing happened, I couldn't help but admire both women. Sam for going through all that and coming up on top by the end of it; Everleigh for going through all the horrible pain watching her bestfriend regressed but still chose to take care of her and be strong for the both of them. I am in so much awe with these women's strengths.

The emotions in this book were so tangible I could almost taste it. My expectations weren't high on this one and I wasn't expecting to be wowed. It wasn't what I was expecting at all, it was definitely more. The story's meant to make you think and make you feel, and it delivered. It will take you to places you didn't think of. You'd think you figured it all out and then BAM!!! Absolutely not what you have in mind. It was like Genna pulled out a taser on me rendering me stunned. And that, my friends, is how you should write a story if you're aiming for a  supsense/thriller kinda vibe. Absolute perfection. I am tempted to say this one's for the books but I am reviewing a book, aren't I? Haha! So instead, THIS ONE'S FOR A MOVIE! Oh yeahhh, Hunter on screen, what a sight! I can't wait for Sam's story on book two!!!

For my playlist, you might notice most of the songs are about a complicated love story because it was a indeed a complicated one. Complicated by CDJ is Ev's song for Hunter and their relationship; I agree with Sy on her choice of I Can't Make You Love Me. The song's perfect for when Ev thought her love is unrequited; Dreaming with A Broken Heart, just because I am a masochist and listening to this song while writing this review makes my heart weep so I am definitely including it; Thunder is Hunter's song for Ev. I don't know why, but I thought of them when I heard it. Haha; How To Save A Life because I need to include a The Fray song don't ask why. Haha; Angel by Leona Lewis because that's Hunter's endearment for Ev, need I say more?

And lastly, I chose two songs that I dedicate for Sam. (1) Full of Grace by Sarah McLachlan. After reading the book, I decided to listen to some music before I sleep, this song was played and I still had a major book hangover and I thought about what happened to Sam while the song was playing and hello waterworks brought to you by my tears. (2) Stand by Rascal Flatts for Sam showing how strong she is. You go girl! ;-)

Here's the list of the songs:
Complicated by Carolyn Dawn Johnson
I Can't Make You Love me by Bonnie Raitt
Dreaming With A Broken Heart by John Mayer
Thunder by Boys Like Girls
How To Save A Life by The Fray
Angel by Leona Lewis
Full Of Grace by Sarah McLachlan
Stand by Rascal Flatts
You can listen to the songs I mentioned in the widget below. I hope you enjoy the playlist.
 

~Playlist~

And I am ending this review with one of my favorite quotes from the book:
"Some people believe the strongest will cling through the storm with steadfast determination never wavering, but sometimes the strength is in letting go."

Rating:

PLATINUM 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

Sy reviews: ONLY FOR YOU by Genna Rulon




Title: Only For You
Series: For You #1
Author: Genna Rulon

“In its purest form love is self-sacrificing, eternal, selfless, enduring, truthful, forgiving and indulgent. It also feels an awful lot like a kick to the stomach when you try to fight it!”

All Everleigh Carsen wanted to do was complete her final semester at Hensley University and begin the life she carefully planned.

When a wave of violent crime seizes campus, Everleigh is persuaded to attend a school sponsored self-defense seminar by her best friend, where she meets volunteer instructor, Hunter Charles. After Everleigh’s biting sarcasm induces Hunter to eject her from class, a tempestuous relationship is born.

Everleigh is determined to forget the striking man, but fate—that fickle shrew—continuously intervenes. Unable to escape him, she declares Hunter an enemy combatant. The only complication…Hunter is resolutely pursuing vindication…by any means necessary. Verbal warfare ensues, and despite Everleigh’s ingenious efforts, in Hunter, she has finally found her equal.

Only For You is a compelling tale of friendship, desire, and redemption—brimming with intelligent characters, witty dialogue, unexpected twists, profound sorrow, unfettered hope, and love’s unassailable perseverance.

Add on:

Purchase from:

~Review~


I want to thank Genna Rullon for considering our blog in reviewing her book. Me and Nikki were thrilled that someone noticed us and requested us to review her work.

Only For You is a story about a college student, Everleigh Carsen, attending Hensley University. Her bestfriend/destiny sister, Sam, is also attending the same university and they're roomies coz they're inseparable. Hensley is under a state of paranoia and panic because of series of attacks to female students that later on escalated to killings. The victims were unable to identify their attacker while police suspected the unsub (unidentified subject - yes, I watch a lot of Criminal Minds haha) is a student of Hensley since the attacks are mainly directed to Hensley students.

Enter Hunter Charles. He's a sensei. A hot sensei. Well, he teaches self-defense so as the women won't be too powerless if there's an attacker. Hunter is also a business student in Hensley. Aside from being an uber hot and attractive student slash sensei, he does something else which is a top secret. You might get frustrated with him, ehem sexually frustrated, but everything would make sense once the pieces of the puzzle fall together.

I had too many laugh out loud moments in this book. Hunter and Everleigh are too funny and witty whenever they have one of those verbal contests. The banters are too funny and you kinda anticipate who'd get the last word in. I tried to choose sides but I can't. They're really equally good. I love how Genna made me guess and suspect almost everyone as the attacker (or maybe I really just watch too much crime series). I think it's important for a reader to read something that's not so predictable. And I think Genna achieved that. I also like how she made me so attached to the characters that I feel like I'm one of them so I feel their joy, their sadness and their pain. I don't know how she does it but she built strong personality for each character that you love the characters that need to be loved and hate the characters that need to be hated fiercely.

I think though that the story was a bit slow to pick up but I guess that's also important in the overall ending of the book.

I love how each chapter started with a quote. I also appreciate that this book revolved around mystery and a story of great friendships between people. I have several favorites on this book but my ultimate would be at 96% when I totally swooned over Hunter. So as not to spoil anything, I'll just say one word: Forever.
Here's my Only For You playlist:
Almost Lover - A Fine Frenzy
I Can't Make You Love Me - George Michael
Strong Enough - Sheryl Crow
Hot - Avril Lavigne
King Of Anything - Sara Bareilles
Stupid Boy - Cassadee Pope

~Playlist~



Almost Lover is my Hunter and Everleigh song because Hunter is the unboyfriend of Everleigh. I Can't Make You Love Me is the Everleigh song for Hunter when she almost begged him to have a relationship with her. Strong Enough is also my Everleigh song for Hunter. Hot is dedicated to Hunter of course. King Of Anything is also a Hunter song. This is my version of the Sweet As Hole song in the book. Stupid Boy is for Hunter. I think the line "she laid her heart and soul right in your hands. And she showed you every dream and you crushed her plans" fit him.

Rating:

PLATINUM 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

Tuesday, September 24, 2013

Sy reviews: STINGER by Mia Sheridan

Title: Stinger
Series: A Sign of Love Novel
Author: Mia Sheridan

Grace Hamilton was the girl with a plan. She knew exactly where her life was going and prided herself on always achieving her goals. It was who she was, and how she lived her life. She never stepped outside the lines, and never considered what she might desire and whom she was actually trying so hard to please. Until him…

Carson Stinger was a man who didn't play by any rules except his own. Working in the adult entertainment industry, he didn't care what others thought, and took each day as it came, no direction, no plan. He knew what women wanted from him and believed it was all he had to offer. Until her…

When circumstances forced them to spend several hours together, they walked away changed. But for two people who never should have meshed, overcoming the reality of their vastly different lives wasn't possible. At least not yet…

Add on:

Purchase from:

~Review~


Hooray for Scorpio!!! Well since Mia Sheridan started her book by telling us about Scorpio's personality, I might as well start this review by saying hell yes that's how Scorpios do it! And yeah, I'm talking about Carson. And if you think I'm referring to his "skills" then I won't deny that. We, Scorpios, are also known for being passionate and I think we're like the sex sign or something like that and let me just say that the "lovemaking" here is just off the charts hot I even had a hard time pulling off a poker face while reading those parts in a room full of people. So Carson, for that, here's a fist pump for you for raising the Scorpion banner and making us proud. Woot woot!

So Stinger is a story about a girl (Grace Hamilton) who went to Vegas for a law students conference and a guy (Carson Stinger) who was also in Vegas but for a porn conference. Hehehe. I said porn. Hehehe. Anyway, so girl meets guy, girl was a bit uptight and driven by her "plans". And the guy, well, let's just say he simply lived by the phrase "Life is wild". They hated each other in the beginning but due to some "closed-space situation" they have gotten to know each other and their lives have simply changed after that.

I had several LOL moments in this book. I think most of them were Carson moments. I mean, my goodness, I'd have to google soon what Garfield, Flying Circus, Butterfly and Table Lotus positions are. Also, I can understand the fixation on Titanic. I'm with you there, Carson. You've made some really valid points. Hehe.

I'm a masochist so I got my kick here in this story when I also felt their pain when none of them wanted to let go but didn't really have any other choice at that time. And boy there were a lot of painful moments in this story. I was almost stressed out at some point.

I love how this book was written in dual POV. I have always been a big fan of men's POV so getting an insight of what Carson was thinking and feeling is a plus for me. I also love how even the minor characters in this book are very like-able.

You know how sometimes you read a book and the characters have gone through so much conflict and drama and hurt and you've been so hooked so you really feel what they're going through and you're almost on the verge of saying "enough of this, I can't take it anymore"? I felt that here, but when it also came to that part of the book where you know the plot's gonna change for the better you're just too happy and even if you know there'll still be drama you just feel safe and that everything's gonna be fine. I felt that here too. And that's what I really like about this book. I just felt too much emotion. It got me so hooked.

I've read a lot of books already and although most of them are stories about losing love and finding love again, I also appreciate it when it has other life lessons to teach me. I dunno, I might be crazy or shallow for resorting to books when it comes to life lessons but it just feels different when I read it in the book. It just sticks to me. And yes, this book has really taught some good lessons in life (aside of course from those positions I have mentioned earlier which I have yet to Google). Like living wild, not settling and being more. But my favorite would be Dylan's advise. For some reason, what he said to Carson just got me.

"What it comes down to is how much heart you have, and how you will give this your all, not because anyone will give you accolades, but on the contrary, because no one ever has, and you don't depend on that for your success. Those guys out there who have been coddled constantly, and cheered for their whole lives, they'll be the first ones to quit when they don't have anyone to depend on but themselves. But not you-because you've never known any different. And that sucks. But in this case, it's your strength."

God, I love you Dylan! Haha! Seriously though, I think this book has really taught me well about being strong amidst all. Finding that source of strength that is enough to help get you through every single day of your life. Like in the case of Carson, it's the sunrise
Here's my Stinger playlist:

This by Ed Sheeran
Weak by SWV
Sunlight by Kevyn Lettau
In My Veins by Andrew Belle
The Distance by Evan and Jaron
Flower by Amos Lee


~Playlist~


You know how I love some Ed Sheeran so when one of his beautiful songs fits a book I read and reviewed it just makes me so giddy. Anyway, This is my song for them when Carson propositioned Grace for the weekend and how it has changed them. I think this is my overall Stinger song as a matter of fact. Weak is my song for Grace because really, Carson had that effect on her. Hell, Carson have that effect on me too so I totally understand you, Grace. Sunlight is my Carson and Grace song. We all know how sunrise was essential to this story especially to Carson. In My Veins is my song for Carson. I remembered when he told Grace she's in his blood. Awww, isn't that romantic? That's also my overall Stinger song. The Distance is my song for Grace and Carson. This song really fits them after that weekend and when they went their separate ways. Flower is sorta like my Buttercup song. Go figure. ;)

Rating:

DIAMOND RECORD





About the Author

Mia Sheridan is an avid reader, and now writer of romance and erotic novels. She live in Cincinnati, Ohio with her husband who is a police officer and her biggest fan (not necessarily in that order). They have four children here on earth and one in heaven. When she's not sitting on her couch with her head buried in her Kindle, she can be found writing or doing anything creative from building a patio, to sewing pillows. The wild hairs she get know no bounds. Leo is her debut novel, but her head is swimming with more… 
 Stalk her: Website | Twitter | Facebook

Friday, September 20, 2013

Cover reveal: APRIL FOOLS by Karli Perrin

Title: April Fools
Series: April #2
Author: Karli Perrin
Genre: New Adult/Contemporary Romance
Release Date: December 2013



~Synopsis~


Love. Hate. Fear. Fate.

All four letter words.

All consuming.
Naked to the eye, they have the power to control the heart and destroy the soul.

April Adams is about to experience them like never before.
When everything in April's life goes up in smoke, she is faced with some life changing decisions.

Join April as she continues her journey of love and loss.




Add to:


About the Author

Karli Perrin is a 25 year old English Languange & Linguistics graduate from Manchester. She has always been a big lover of books and is currently writing her first NA novel - April Showers.She is a big believer of fate and is a sucker for a happy ending. She honestly believes that there is a reason why you are reading this right now (apart from the fact that you are awesome! Her ultimate goal in life is to live in a house made entirely out of books with her best friend, who also happens to be her fiancé.
...Hogwarts is plan B.

Author Links: Twitter | Facebook | Website | Goodreads

Thursday, September 19, 2013

Nikki reviews: STINGER by Mia Sheridan




Title: Stinger
Series: A Sign of Love Novel #3
Author: Mia Sheridan

Grace Hamilton was the girl with a plan. She knew exactly where her life was going and prided herself on always achieving her goals. It was who she was, and how she lived her life. She never stepped outside the lines, and never considered what she might desire and whom she was actually trying so hard to please. Until him…

Carson Stinger was a man who didn't play by any rules except his own. Working in the adult entertainment industry, he didn't care what others thought, and took each day as it came, no direction, no plan. He knew what women wanted from him and believed it was all he had to offer. Until her…

When circumstances forced them to spend several hours together, they walked away changed. But for two people who never should have meshed, overcoming the reality of their vastly different lives wasn't possible. At least not yet…


Add on:

Purchase from:

~Review~


I was given the chance to beta-read this new novel by Mia, and yeah, it was so much of a privilege because the story is... WOW.

So what do we have here?

Carson meets Grace.

Straight Male Performer meets Lawyer-in-the-making.

Porn Star meets Prosecutor.

It was a chance meeting. It was fate. It was serendipity. They were destined to happen.

We got a broken boy whose past is as fucked as he could get and he let it define his future. He has always believed that there is no other path for him to take but the one his mother has shown him. He accepted it, embraced it and lived with it without questions until he bumped into a girl that he never expected to be the reason why he would start to think about his life direction differently. He’s a live-by-the-moment kind of guy with a worry-about-no-shit-until-it-bites-you-in-the-ass attitude. He’s Carson Stinger, a 6’1” male specimen with wheat-colored hair, lush eyelashes and hazel eyes.

Opposite the pole, we got an uptight girl whose life is all planned out with a blue-print. She also has her reasons why she grew up the way she did and that’s also because of her mother and the death of her brother. Once she set a goal for herself, a tunnel vision is also set. She never strays on her path, she’s super-glued to it. She has everything under control, or so she believed, until he bumped into a guy who taught her that life is wild. She was a live-with-a-direction kind of girl with a worry-about-everything-until-panic-attack-comes attitude. She’s Grace Hamilton, a 5’3” blue-eyed blonde girl who aspires to be everything she thinks her mother is looking for.

Here is my Grace Hamilton:

And my Carson Stinger:

I know girls!!! Carson with a scorpion tattoo!!! ;)

And another picture of Carson:


And more Carson:

Uhumm yeah okay, I’ll stop now. ;)

I love how Mia executed the characters in the story. They are totally opposite people and with characters coming from opposite directions, we expect them to clash. And they did, with their first meeting.
"No, not at all. Looks like we're both here to learn how to be the best at getting people off." 
My brows snapped down. "Well that's… that's a disgusting way to put it." 
He moved closer to me until I was forced to step back. "Why? Getting people off is such a rush, Buttercup. Don't be ashamed of doing it well."
And the hilarious meeting at the bar. This is one of my most favorite scenes!
He was thoughtful for a minute, turning back to the bar and taking a drink of his beer. 
Finally, he turned to me. "How did we make those two kids?" 
My brow furrowed. "Uh, you might want to re-think your career choice if you don't know…" 
"What I mean is, what position did we make our two kids in? Doggy style? Backwards cowgirl? The Garfield? Flying Circus? Butterfly? Table Lotus? Bended-Knee?"
And yes, it was just their second meeting and Carson is already talking about sexual positions with Grace! I laughed my ass out at this scene and what I posted here is just a part of it.
I also loved that Mia decided to write Stinger in dual point of views so we can live through Carson’s thoughts. The transitions between the two point of views were done smoothly I didn't had a hard time reading it. I've read books before with dual point of views and some confused the hell out of me when switching POVs but Stinger, I think is done perfectly.
There are many funny moments with Stinger and I loved Mia more for that. Not just between Carson and Grace but also with other characters like Abby, Grace’s bestfriend and even with Josh, Carson’s friend.

But if you are following my reviews with Mia’s work, it is not the humor why I fell in love with this author’s works. It is because she never fails to warm my heart with all those beautiful life lessons. I have somehow, long ago, considered this woman’s words as my own life lessons. There are so many insights in her books that make you want to reflect on your own life and this one’s my favorite:

"In life, there are those who save us, sometimes in big ways and sometimes in small. Sometimes that means being set free from a dark, windowless room, or being pulled out of a burning building. More often, it means being saved from ourselves, and made to finally believe that letting someone love you isn't just a big lie that you're unwilling to tell."

I have always been a fan of love separated by time and distance, and yet that love prevailed because I always believed that those kinds of love are destined to last forever. I know I’m such a sucker for romance. Carson and Grace’s love story stood the test of time and distance, differences and regrets, fate and life choices. Theirs was a story I wish I could call my own, it wasn’t easy I know, but I think what they both went through was all worth everything.

Having all said that, you think I was so blown away by this story, yeah?

But, no.
I wasn't blown-away, no, I think I wasn't. I was uprooted from myself and transported to the world Mia created in the form of Stinger. It was that beautiful. It was that real. It was a story that would reside in your heart and resonate even after you've read it.

I wanted to say that Stinger is the story I’ve been waiting for my whole life to read but I don’t want to swallow my own words when Mia release another novel for the Sign of Love series, so yeah, I wouldn’t push my luck on that one because I believe in the gift of this woman, and I know for sure that she’ll continue to alter my bookworm universe for as long as she writes.

She did it with Leo. She outdid it in Leo’s Chance. And after reading Stinger, I think she surpassed what she’s accomplished with those two novels.

I’ve said it on my email, but I want to post it here as well:

I am so looking forward to more stories from my lovely storyteller. I was never wrong when I read her debut novel. Remember my review of Leo? Me saying that there is something with her writing? It's a gift. And we readers are so incredibly lucky because she decided to be selfless and share that gift to us.

Rating:

DIAMOND RECORD


If you want to listen to Mia’s Stinger playlist, it’s here.
Here my Stinger playlist:
All I Ever Wanted by Train
The Look by Ryan Tedder
Like You by Artstrong
What Hurts The Most by Rascal Flatts
I Call It Love by Lionel Richie
Everyday by Rascal Flatts
Sunrise by Rascal Flatts
Cuddy Buddy by Trey Songz and Twista
And if you want to listen to my Stinger playlist you can find it below. The Look by Ryan Tedder is my Carson and Grace song. Enjoy.

~Playlist~


Also, here are some teasers I made for Stinger.



About the Author


Mia Sheridan is an avid reader, and now writer of romance and erotic novels. She live in Cincinnati, Ohio with her husband who is a police officer and her biggest fan (not necessarily in that order). They have four children here on earth and one in heaven. When she's not sitting on her couch with her head buried in her Kindle, she can be found writing or doing anything creative from building a patio, to sewing pillows. The wild hairs she get know no bounds. Leo is her debut novel, but her head is swimming with more… 
 Stalk her: Website | Twitter | Facebook

Monday, September 16, 2013

Sy reviews: OENONE by Agatha Rae

 

~Synopsis~


Evelyn Dax is in love with her boss, Jeff Richards has an enemy and has been feeling a little cold lately, and Laura and Bruce Levinson have health problems.

What does that all have to do with one Greek Nymph?

Find out in this 303 page fantasy that reads like an independent film.







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Purchase from

~Review~

 
First of all, I'm not really too big on supernatural stories. I did think though that this book was very promising to begin with so I still went for it.

I really wanted to like this story but it just fell short for me. First, I think there were too many side stories going on. I understand that each story was essential to the overall plot of the book but then again, it was just too much. Second, there were parts in the book that in my humble opinion wasn't really that important to be added in there. Third, I got confused in the beginning when I didn't know whose POV was narrating, only to realize it was narrated not by the characters in the book.

What I liked about the book was that it revolved about publishing and editorial. As a reader, I've always been a fan of anything book-related so getting an inside story about what goes on in publishing books and editing and all that stuff has fascinated me and grabbed my attention. So now I have a new dream job, an editor. Hehehe. I also liked Laura and Bruce's characters. Their love was so pure and beautiful and for a moment there I really felt their pain. On the other hand, I think Jeff and Evy's story could've been more. I think their love story had potential but again it just fell short.

In my younger years, Mythology has always fascinated me and I liked that this book had that. I also appreciate that this book taught a very good lesson about love, friendship, honesty and most importantly, patience.


~Playlist~


For me, these two songs have that supernatural vibe in it.

Rating

SILVER RECORD









ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Agatha Rae Facebook | Twitter

Monday, September 9, 2013

Cover reveal: STILL HUMAN by Kerry Heavens

Title: Still Human
Series: Just Human #2
Author: Kerry Heavens
Genre: Contemporary Romance
Age group: Adult
Expected release date: October 2013

~Synopsis~


Danny and Liv are back...

Danny loves Liv. He knows he loves her more than she loves him because she ran without a word when she saw their future mapped out before her. He knows he will never love anyone like he loved her and this time he doesn’t think he can move on.

Liv loves Danny. She knows she loves him more than he loves her because he broke her heart in the worst possible way, right when things were falling into place. She knows she will never love anyone like she loves him and this time she doesn’t think she can move on.

They needed a second chance because they just weren’t ready for their first, but when events changed everything between them, they discovered they were just human after all. Now Liv and Danny have to find a way to survive being hurt by each other.

They doubted, they underestimated and they did believe the worst, but only because they were too young the first time and too vulnerable the second time. But now they have changed and if they are not the same, surely things can only turn out differently?

Add to:

~Prologue~

Liv


“Please Liv, you have to eat something,” begs Max.

I tighten the covers around me. I’m not hungry, but I keep quiet. If I speak, even about food, he’ll think I’m ready to talk. There’s nothing else to say. I poured it all out when I got home and there’s nothing left. He stayed with me all night, held me tight while I cried and now he is fussing around. He wanted to call everyone to tell them I was safe. But I warned him not to call Danny. I said he could let Mum know I was okay but that was it. No details and under no circumstances were any of them to make any contact with Danny either. I can just imagine Mum and Grace as vigilantes and, while I want him to hurt, he isn’t worth it.

“I’m going down to check on things, I’ll bring you something up anyway.” He says quietly. I don’t respond.

In the silence of my flat, my ears ring. I hate silence, I always have and without thinking I get out of bed, wrapping myself in a blanket, and sit in front of the TV. I find a film on a movie channel I’ve seen before and sit and ignore it. It’s better than the deafening silence. Now that I’m upright, I ponder what to do next. I know I have to pull myself together today, Connie is flying home. Ugh! She won’t let me just wallow, she’ll make me talk. I need to get up, shower and go to work. Keeping busy is my only option, it'll keep people off my back.

As I adjust the temperature of the shower, I examine my options. I don't really have any. It's not like life was going well before I allowed Danny to walk in and screw me over. I have to just try my hardest to get back to normal as quickly as possible. I should have trusted my instincts. Danny was just human after all, hurting me was almost inevitable. Sadly, I knew that but the naive teenager in me just got sucked in for old time’s sake. I knew this would happen, I was safer with Mark, at least I could take that on the chin.

Max is waiting when I come out of the bedroom dressed for work.

“I brought you some coffee and…” He starts as he turns to me. His face falls as he sees me. “Liv, you’re not going to work?”

I walk across to where he is sitting and pick up my coffee. Taking a sip, I smile a tiny smile and sit beside him.

“What should I do then?” I ask softly.

“We have it all covered downstairs. You need to sort your head out.”

“I’m not going to do that here, trust me. I need the distraction.” I put my hand on his knee. “Thank you for looking after me, but I have to get back down there before I drive myself insane.”

He sighs. “Well, you aren’t going anywhere until you eat something.” He holds up a muffin on a plate.

I smile sweetly and dutifully take the muffin. Then, with some physical effort, I force some down. I may as well start now, Connie will be much harder to deal with.

Satisfied, Max sits back and seems to relax slightly. I can hear his cogs turning though and I know he wants to talk. So when he parts his lips to say whatever it is I know I don’t want to hear, I say “I don’t want to talk about it.” Then, getting to my feet, I take the coffee and the muffin and go to the door.

“Coming?” I ask innocently as I head down to the diner.

Danny



Jen places a coffee on my nightstand and sits on the edge of the bed. “If they know any more, they’re not saying,” she says softly.

She was just on the phone with Liv’s sister, trying to get more information. But I know all I need to know. They found the note last night when they got back; it said she was going home.

It didn’t say why, but I know.

She doesn’t love me.

She found out I was going to propose and she ran.

Again.

Last night after the dust settled, Jen found the ring bag screwed up in the trash. I’d left it out on the counter when I went to go meet Liv at the party and it doesn’t take a genius to see what happened. Liv came back just after I left, saw the bag, figured it out, freaked and then packed her things and left.

Scott and Jen left me alone last night, but only after I insisted. Jen came back first thing this morning though, to make sure I was okay. She wants me to get up and go over to Grace’s to find out what they know, but I don’t want to hear it. I can’t face their pity and I’m too angry to see Connie. This is all her fault. Liv and I were getting on with our lives quite happily until she interfered. Now I’m left with that old open wound and I have to start getting over her again. Except this time, I don’t think I can.

“Danny, come on, drink your coffee,” Jen urges. Reluctantly, I sit up and take a sip.

“Thanks,” I say distantly.

“So what are you going to do now?”

“Nothing,” I tell her.

She watches me as I drink, until I can’t take it any longer. I throw the covers off and get up.

“Are you going over there?” she asks hopefully.

I turn and see her optimistic face. “No,” I say firmly. “I have unpacking to do.”

“Danny! You can’t just give up.”

“Why not?” I scoff. “She has.”

About the Author

Terrible wife; Mediocre mother; Appalling housewife; Fashion graduate; Wedding coordinator; Sex toy salesperson; Shop manager; Designer; Font collector; Romance addict; Fancier of nice men Ok, fancier of almost all men; Awesome cupcake baker; Incessant singer; Film buff; Friend; Writer
Stalk her! Website | Twitter | Facebook | Pinterest | Goodreads


Friday, September 6, 2013

Cover reveal: VENDETTA by Autumn Karr and Sienna Lane

Title: Vendetta
Author: Autumn Karr and Sienna Lane
Genre: Contemporary Romance
Age group: Adult
Expected release date: December 2013


~Synopsis~


I am not a good man.

I have lied and cheated and stolen. I've decided between life or death, like it was my due. None of it matters, not anymore. These are not my sins.

I see her raise her hands, the dark metal she's clutching reflecting the moonlight. Her finger trembles as she cocks the gun pointed at me. Her eyes are cold, determined, but I know.

I know her.

My name is Devon Andre and I confess my sin. I am not a good man because this is the woman I love.

She pulls the trigger.


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Authors Social Media Links

Autumn Karr: Facebook | Goodreads
Sienna Lane: Facebook | Goodreads
Joint Facebook page

~Giveaway~

a Rafflecopter giveaway