Review of Thirty Sunsets by Christine Hurley Desriso

Synopsis:
To Forrest Shephard, getting away to the family's beach house with her parents and her brother, Brian, is the best part of every summer. Until this year, when her mother invites Brian's obnoxious girlfriend, Olivia, to join them. Suddenly, Forrest's relaxing vacation becomes a mission to verify the reality of Olivia's rumored eating disorder. But the truth behind Olivia's finicky eating isn't at all what Forrest expected. And over the next thirty days, Forrest's world is turned upside down as her family's darkest secrets begin to come to light. (Taken from Goodreads)

Forrest Shepherd is convinced she’s right. About what’s best for her brother and his horrible girlfriend, Olivia. About her mother’s need for control. Most of all, she thinks she’s right about Scott, the first cute guy to hit on her. But on the Shepherds’ annual summer vacation, Forrest discovers that her safe world of family and friends is riddled with deception. Her brother, her mother, Olivia, Scott . . . she really doesn’t know them at all, and Forrest is left wondering what it means for the most important relationships in her life to be built on lies. Thirty Sunsets is a story about secrets and personal trauma that shake a family to its core . . . and the healing that arises when hard truths emerge. (Given by the Author)

Stars Given:

★★★★☆

Overall View:
Not only does this book have a pretty cover and a title that relates to the book (bonus!), but it also send a very important message to its readers.  The theme of the book seemed to be "don't judge a book by its cover".  Olivia served as a great example, seeing how she comes from a broken family, and she holds the stereotypes of a lead cheerleader.  Instead of being a bossy, and cocky lead cheerleader, she was portrayed as a girl who not only cared about her boyfriend Scott, but cared for others, such as Forrest as well.  The mother also played a very important part in sending out the message to the readers.  At a glance, she seems like the typical control freak who doesn't allow her children outside of her sight, but once you look into her past, you begin to understand her story and her reasoning for her over protective nature.

Not only did this book teach readers a lesson, but the added humor also balanced out with the heavy subjects that were being discussed in this book.  The writing flowed very well, allowing me to visualize the scene clearly.  I felt as if I were right there at the beach, watching Forrest as she takes off into a different adventure everyday.  Not only did this book flow well, but the plot was consistent, which allowed me to follow up on the story easily.  There were no awkward sentences or grammar mistakes present, and the author uses very mature words that helped me with visualizing each scene.

Although I did enjoy this book, I did give it four stars for a few reasons.  I am more inclined to romantic stories, but certain parts of this book was too predictable or unrealistic. The boy who raped Forrest's mom seemed unrealistic (a flat character) to me.  After finding out that both the mother and daughter were raped by cute (at least that's what it seemed like judging from the description) boys, it just seemed too unrealistic.  Sure, cute boys may rape cute girls, but what are the chances of both Shepherds being raped/close to being raped by cute boys?  Another thing that really bothered me was Olivia.  I want to know more about her past, her family, and maybe even her ex-boyfriends.  To me, she was a very interesting character, a character I wanted to discover about, but in the end, I got nothing.  She was not as developed as the other characters, but I really wanted more on her part.

Overall, I found this book quite enjoyable and would recommend it to others.
 

Character:
Forrest Shepherd -
Description of Character: The 16-year-old narrator of the book, Forrest Shepherd, has perfected masking her insecurities with above-it-all snark. She’s pretty and would love a boyfriend, but she’s too smart and mature for the guys in her school and too naïve to understand that they’ll catch up with her eventually. Her naivete leads to the book’s denouement – a devastating blow that forces her to tap into her deepest reserves of strength as she moves to the next phase of her life.


Review of Character:Forrest appealed to me in the beginning because of her smarts and love for words (described as "word freak").  Throughout the story, she began to get irritating because of her stubborn beliefs about Scott.  Although she was advised against the idea of spending time Scott, her inflexible personality stopped her from taking the advice.  Her character was really developed and it allowed me to learn about her and her family more.

Brian Shepherd -
Description of Character: Brian Shepherd, Forrest’s 18-year-old brother, is cute, popular, smart . . . and in love. His infatuation with cheerleader Olivia has derailed all his plans, particularly studying premed at Vanderbilt. He’s kind and steady, but he makes it clear that if he has to choose between Olivia and his family, he’s choosing Olivia.

Review of Character: Brian was my favourite character out of the whole book.  The fact that he was over protective with Forrest, although they were not blood related shows that he loves her unconditionally.  Brian was a very constricted character who was caged by the belief of his mother, in addition, the way he was conceived also restricted him.  He was the most sincere character out of the rest who wanted nothing more than to live up to everyone's expectations.  He cared about the people he loved, including Olivia.  Brian was a developed character, unlike Olivia, and learning about him was quite enjoyable, yet heart breaking at times.

Olivia -
Description of Character: 18-year-old Olivia is unwelcome in the Shepherd household by everyone but Brian. The family resents the pretty cheerleader for seemingly derailing his college plans. They also worry about Olivia’s dysfunctional upbringing. But although she strikes them as superficial, Olivia soon reveals depths of wisdom and emotion that reveal both her psychic scars and her fierce insistence on creating a better life for herself.

Review of Character: Although Olivia appeared to be the typical popular, disrepectful lead cheerleader, she was actually really considerate, helping Forrest with her problems, allowing them to bond.  She was not as developed as other characters, which bothered me a little.  She felt like the type of character I would love no matter what her past contained.  Although she wasn't as developed, I felt like she played a very important role in this book.  Without her, many of the events or family bonding would not have happened.  In my opinion, she was a supporting character that meant to be one of the leading characters.  If a book came out talking about Olivia's past before meeting Brian and after meeting Brian came out, I would definitely pick it up.

*Supporting characters not listed

Read more

Review of Greater than the Still by Sarah Dayan

 Synopsis:
     Juliette Laredo never meant to leave an impression on anyone, but in a city of constantly intertwining lives, her impact is greater than she knows. On the brink of deciding to return to a stable career as a mental health counselor or follow her passion as a pastry chef, Juliette’s worries surface when she is faced with a life changing opportunity. 

     More than a dozen unique New Yorkers narrate their own perceptions and feelings of Juliette, as her story is told through their eyes. Greater Than the Still portrays the love, fears, and heartbreaks of New Yorkers as strangers and familiar faces peel back layers of Juliette’s life. It is through their crossed paths that change the course of Juliette’s future. (Taken from Goodreads)

Stars Given:★★★★☆

Overall View:
      Greater than the Stills was a truly unique book.  I have never seen or read a book like it.  The book looks at a different perspectives on a single character.  This is truly a unique book as I was given the opportunity to see the different views on Juliette.  The character is an illustration of the lives that people around the world could be going through.  The idea of choosing a career is hard.  As a student, I can see how sometimes my passions and my idea of a stable job is in conflict with each other.  People hang on the balance of future or passion all the time as they stumble through their lives.  I loved how this book mentions this.  It allowed me to connect to the character so much more.

      The reason as to why I gave this book four stars is because, in a way the style of the story was also a weakness.  I found it hard to focus on the book at the beginning.  I couldn't really pinpoint the area in which it made me lose concentration however, I found that it took me a while to get into a trance.  The trance, obviously, lasted until the end of the book as I got into the groove.  However, I was compelled to take a star off due to the beginning.  I have read many books of different genres where the beginning of the book was able to capture the reader at the first sentence.  

      Last but not least, I would like to say how beautiful the cover is.  It truly brings out the content of the book.  I'm a big fan of beautiful pictures so when I see a pretty cover its like the book is telling me to pick it up and read it.  

Read more

Review of Shameless by Nina Lemay

Synopsis:
Girls like me don’t get happy endings.

I know what I am. At worst a cliché, at best a cautionary tale. I put an international border between me and my past, only to wind up working in a low-end titty bar. Even my excuse is as lame as it gets: I’m paying for college, getting my art degree from Montreal’s most prestigious school. Although some days it becomes confusing: am I just a student who moonlights as a stripper, or a stripper who masquerades as a student?

But the inevitable happens and my two lives collide. And now there’s one other person who knows both the quiet, antisocial Hannah and the sensual, shameless Alicia. One person who keeps my secret.

He’s beautiful, he’s sophisticated. He comes from the other side of life, the one where I’m not wanted or accepted. But he calls me la petite Américaine, and his hot, hot hands on my skin promise me things I long ago gave up on.

The problem? He teaches my Classic Photography class.

This is a standalone novel, no series, no cliffhanger. (Taken from Goodreads)

Stars Given:★★★★☆


Overall View:
This was quite an interesting story, one that I have not read before.  Although I found Hannah a little irritating at times, I adored Emmanuel.  He was probably one of the sweetest guys in stories ever.  Hannah hadn't appealed to me as much as I wanted her to because I felt as if she felt sorry for herself all the time.  She pushed away those who wanted to help her, such as Emmanuel, and that really bothered me.  Although she seems like a very strong character, the fact that she can't accept what happened in the past just makes her weak.  The only time when I enjoyed reading about her character was near the end when she talked to Emmanuel.  By then, she made a big change and was able to accept herself for what has happened to her.  Overall, I liked the plot and how the story progressed.  I did not notice any grammar mistakes, etc. so that makes me pretty happy.  Other than Hannah's character, I enjoyed this book, and the sweet little moments that were shared by Emmanuel and Hannah.  If you don't mind reading about a stripper, and a hot teacher, you better pick up this book now!

Read more

Review of Pretty Girl by Amy Heugh

Synopsis:
If there were one day that she could change it would be the day she was taken.

After her parents’ divorce, seventeen-year-old Izzy Scott and her mother move to the old town of St. Augustine to begin a new life, a life beyond the media attention and the memories of the traumatic experiences that left an everlasting affect on their family.

The former ballerina is trying to adjust to the outside world without suffering a panic attack and exposing who she is - all while getting through her senior year at a new school. That’s easy to say until she meets local boy Mason Winchester, a boy with a tragic past.

Mason has a reputation for violence, but a love for motorcycles. At the age of eleven he lost his mother to cancer and from then he has been running from something, but could never really get away.

Like any other angry teenager, he just wants to be left alone and to have nothing to do with anyone else because he believed that he had nothing to offer. That changes the moment he saw what was in the new girl eyes.

Tragedy wasn't new to either of their lives but among the secrets and the memories the one thing they both never excepted was to find hope.

*This book is recommended for readers 18+ for violence, language, and some adult situations.* (Taken from Goodreads)

Stars Given:★★★★☆

Overall View:
I loved this book.  Although there were quite a few spelling/grammar mistakes, this book was placed together with care, and the product?  Perfect.  Magnificent.  Although Izzy, at times, had a few disliking qualities, both Izzy and Mason were just lovable.  The pity I felt for both made my heart ache as their individual stories began to unfold.  This book isn't all about love.  It is about getting over the past, and starting new again.  The title is just perfect.  Although it was deceiving at first, I had become quite fond of the title and the cover of the book.  It connected well with the story, and the theme was pulled throughout the story.  Laughter and tears were shed throughout the story, which had made the characters really come to life.  I admit, I did cry near the ending, but that is all I can say without spoiling the book.

Although the plot was shown a little later in the book, I had really enjoyed Izzy and Mason's story (I was hoping for an epilogue, but was later disappointed...).  Not only did I find their story heart wrenching, but these two characters have taught me something to keep in mind.  No matter what happens, move on.   This book is full of emotions and is highly recommended to sophisticated readers.  Like the warning of the book in the synopsis, this book is highly recommended for someone who is able to read through some (or a lot) violence, foul language, and adult situations.  My only criticism for this book would be getting an editor for it.  Maybe I got the wrong or unedited version, but there were noticeable spelling and grammar errors.  For someone like me, a mistake would kidnap my attention from the story.  Other than that, I am more than happy to reread this book a hundred times, maybe even a thousand if I can.  Perfect book, with "perfect" characters.

*Supporting characters not listed

Read more

LGBT MONTH Review of Supermassive by Nina Rossing

Synopsis:
Eighteen-year-old Ing is torn apart by two conflicting emotions: his numbing grief for his dead mother and his enduring love for a boy named Ellis. Four years ago, while visiting his grandmother in a remote part of Norway, his mother died the same day he kissed Ellis, his summer friend. Convinced that moving to Norway will solve his issues, Ing faces his first setback when he can’t bear to talk about his mother or go anywhere near the river where she drowned. The second blow comes when he meets Ellis at school and Ellis acts like nothing happened between them.

Ing resolves to rekindle their friendship, but his infatuation only grows as he gets to know the stunning and matured Ellis. When heart-shattering secrets surface, Ing’s resolve to bare his soul to Ellis starts to unravel. Forced to face his mother's death, he second-guesses his decision to move. His growing closeness with Ellis also frightens him, because if Ellis rejects him, he'll have no one left to love. Ing must decide what losses he is willing to endure and what chances to take in order to gain resolution. (Taken from Goodreads)

Stars Given:★★★★☆

Overall View:
What am I supposed to even say?  This book was amazing.  The only reason why I gave it 4 stars was because the beginning had me flipping through and scanning the pages.  It took a few chapters for me to get immersed into the book.  I am so glad I did not give up on it.  It took me two days to get through this book, which is unusual because I like to read slowly (mostly because I ended up getting distracted).  The plot of this book made it seem ordinary, but I had a lot to learn from Ing.  He was my favourite character, aside from Ellis, who was on par with Ing.  Ing remained strong no matter what was thrown at him, even if he did melt down in a few chapters.  His emotions really captured me and that brought me into Ing's perspective.  I also gave it a four stars because I wanted to know more about both Aron and Odin.  I wanted to hear about their own story, and the reason why they did what they did.  Odin, to me, was a really important character.  Without him, perhaps many things could've changed in the story.  I would love to read more about Odin's part of the story.  Maybe he could find love for himself one day, maybe not.  He did intrigue me as a character, such as Aron did too.  Finding out more about their background story would definitely bump this 4 stars to a 5.

Character:
Ing -
Description of Character: As an ex-extrovert, Ing kept a lot inside of him, including the death of his mother and the never ending memory of a summer kiss.  Now an introvert, Ing is a smart young man who is mostly composed, and able to hold back his feelings, especially in front of his only love Ellis.  Although strong on the outside, he is unable to let go of the death of his mother, causing him to turn away seafood.  Hoping to be able to find a way to let go of this mess, he goes back to the one place that holds a lot of memories.


Review of Character: Ing. Such an amazing character.  At first, he seemed like a bore, which caused me to scan a few pages in the beginning (I will go back and reread them sometime soon).  But later in the book, he honestly surprised me.  I supported Ing and his feelings for Ellis so much and it just...so hard to describe him.  I definitely loved his character, and the background story provided was enough to make him feel realistic.  Ing was a sweet, innocent, loving boy before the tragedy that tore him apart, although he still held strong in the end.  Even without his grieving father, he was able to get over the fact, in the end, that his mother had really died, even if her body was not recovered.  I absolutely love strong main characters and Ing is definitely one to be recognized for.  I just simply love Ing.


*Supporting characters not listed

Read more

EBR Guest Review: Divine Fall by Kathryn Knight (Jill-Ann Guyette)

EBR Guest Reviewer: Jill-Ann Guyette

Synopsis:
After tragedy tears Jamie Brandt’s life apart, her only goal is to finish high school so she can leave her small hometown behind. In the meantime, riding her horse is her main source of solace, until a mysterious stable hand shows up at the barn. There’s something not quite right about the handsome new employee, and the more Jamie sees of him, the more determined she becomes to figure out what he’s hiding.

Dothan Reed came to historic Huntsville, Maryland, for one reason—revenge. But his plan can’t move forward until he finds the missing piece he needs to enhance his powers. As the only surviving Nephilim, Dothan is not only weaker than full-blooded angels; his forbidden lineage makes him an outcast in both worlds. When he discovers Jamie is the key to locating an ancient weapon, he’s forced to interact with a vulnerable human girl—a task that becomes more appealing with each encounter.

Jamie soon learns Dothan isn’t the only one with a dark secret. Each new revelation further threatens her safety, and Dothan’s betrayal shatters her heart. Forgiving him seems impossible, but the thought of turning her back on him is equally painful.

As their connection deepens, Dothan will have to make his own difficult choice: continue on his path of vengeance, or protect the girl he loves. And when Dothan’s actions thrust Jamie into an unforeseen danger, he must seek the help of his enemy…or risk losing her forever.  (Taken from Goodreads)

Stars Given:★★★★☆ (4 Stars)

Overall View:

***this book was given to me by the author through Ethereal Book Reviews (Guest Reviewer Program)***

I really enjoy reading paranormal books. And when you add in a little romance, well who doesn’t enjoy that?

These two are kind of star crossed lovers with no death involved. The instant love seems to be getting done in many books. What I did like about this couple is that no one person in the relationship “wore the pants”.

I love the stubborn characteristics that Jamie has. And I enjoyed the protectiveness Dothan felt for Jamie without it being overdone or out of line.

I don’t like to write spoilers so I will say that if you enjoy a little paranormal give this book a go. I’ve read that this book is a standalone but I would love to read a sequel should Knight get inspired to continue the story.

Read more

EBR Guest Reviews: My Soul Immortal by Jen Printy (Jill-Ann Guyette)

EBR Guest Reviewer: Jill-Ann Guyette

Synopsis:
An endless love, for an endless price.

Jack’s immortality is exposed when he prevents a liquor store heist, forcing him to flee to protect his secret—a secret not even he understands. But when he meets Leah Winters—a mirror image of his decades-lost love, Lydia—his very soul is laid bare. He begins to question his sanity. Is she real, and if so, what does that mean for Jack and his secret?

Jack’s not the only mystery man in town. A stranger named Artagan hints at knowledge Jack is desperate to possess. But can he trust Artagan, or does the dark newcomer harbor deadly secrets of his own?

As Jack’s bond with Leah grows, so does the danger to her life. Jack must discover just how much he is willing to risk in order to save the woman he already lost once. (Taken from Goodreads)



Stars Given:★★★★☆ (4 Stars)

Overall View:

***this book was given to me by the author through Ethereal Book Reviews (Guest Reviewer Program)***

When true love stands the test of time and breaks all boundaries of fate you have a story that makes you continue to read through to the end...only is it really the end?

There are certain things we can count on in life, death being one of them. Can you imagine living forever? Seeing the world change yet remain the same as human nature never changes?
All of this went through my mind as I read My Immortal Soul. As I grew attached to the characters and imagined myself as they are written. I don’t want to say too much about the story as I don’t enjoy writing spoilers. But I will say this, I was very happy to know there will be a second installment.

My only aversion with the book is that the ending, while it leaves us open for the second book, was extremely predictable. I have thought of other characters the author could have used as the replacement in the end. But overall I was satisfied with this one and will be excited to learn when to expect book two!

Read more

EBR Guest Review: A Native's Tongue by Michael D. Dennis (Jennifer Spraggs)

EBR Guest Reviewer: Jennifer Spraggs

Synopsis:
A Native’s Tongue, by Michael D. Dennis, was published in June 2014 and is available for sale on Amazon in ebook and paperback, and on Barnes & Noble

“A Native’s Tongue is about a young man trying to find his way in the world. He struggles to keep the woman he loves while entangled in the sex, drugs, and tragedy of Los Angeles. It was inspired by real events,” says Dennis.

Charlie Winters has never been an overachiever. He is used to just getting by while living with his single mother and working a dead-end job at a cheesesteak stand.

Meanwhile, he’s constantly grappling with the voice of his sister, who died in a tragic car accident years earlier, echoing in his head.

So when Violet, an older woman, sets her sights on Charlie and refuses to let go, he follows along. He soon finds himself immersed in a destructive relationship that still fails to fill the void within him.

But then he meets Jennifer, a mystical young woman whose energy and life convinces Charlie to pursue her, even through the darkest corners of Los Angeles, and sets their lives upon a path that can’t be stopped.

Escaping to the California coast, Charlie and Jennifer finally find what they’ve always needed. But a sudden illness quickly pulls them both back to LA. It is there, amid the sex, drugs, and split-second decisions that pulse through the city, that tragedy strikes—threatening to tear Charlie and Jennifer apart forever.

Love and tragedy collide in Dennis’s poignant new novel, A Native’s Tongue. (Taken from Goodreads)

Stars Given:
★★★★☆ (4 Stars)


Overall View:

***this book was given to me by the author through Ethereal Book Reviews (Guest Reviewer Program)***

I really enjoyed this book. It was a little slow to begin with but after the first few chapters I was so intrigued in the plot I just couldn’t stop! I just wanted to keep reading on and the mysterious aspect running through kept me guessing about what was to happen next. The characters were really well presented; a little odd and troubled but at the same time, I felt like I knew them! Jennifer was definitely my favourite because I could relate to her the most (and it wasn’t because she had the same name as me!) The only thing I found irritating was the way the author chose to have Charlie's chapters in a first-person format and anyone else's perspective in third person (but not with Charlie narrating). Overall the novel was a wonderful, easy read and I’d recommend it to anyone!

Read more

EBR Guest Review: Heart Tales by Celine Garcia (Marie-Eve Castonguay)

EBR Guest Reviewer: Marie-Eve Castonguay

Synopsis:
Three charming tales of that never ending roller coaster called life, each one sure to pack a sweet punch of candy for the heart. One story involves a girl and a mystery box with handwritten song lyrics. The second follows a guy on the road with memories of the girl that got away, and finally a teen girl who can actually speak to the source of her angst…her heart.

Book Trailer: http://youtu.be/QMcpG6QUz98

Audio Frequency
Geraldine works the counter at Audio Frequency, a small music store that was once the hub of the local music scene. The best part of her day is a little brown box that is delivered to the store with song lyrics written inside, a playful guessing game between a mystery guy who seems to totally get her. Geraldine finds she is ready to make big changes at Audio Frequency and thankfully her best friend Sam just scored her a ticket to the biggest music benefit in town. Geraldine may get everything she wants when she discovers that her mystery guy may be at the event.
A sweet little story about friendship, expectations, and the leaps that must be made to take the love you want.

Legal U Turn
Gwen and Dean share an awkward drive home for their first college break because of convenience. But with hate comes a confiding friendship that may mean more to Dean. After his true feelings slip during a trip home, his friendship with Gwen ends abruptly and they don’t speak or see each other again.

Two years later Dean finds himself driving the same route he and Gwen used to take home years ago and it’s accompanied with the best memories of Gwen. A journey filled with a fun combo of memorable road trips and not so great first impressions causes Dean to wonder, is there a possibility of rekindling one of his greatest friendships?

Heart Set on You
A funny thing happened to Ellie when she woke after her heart transplant. Her donor didn’t exactly die. Instead he stayed behind to both of their confusion and can only be seen by Ellie. Ellie is unable to make friends at school and her only confidant is her heart donor, who she coincidentally nicknames Heart. After thinking she would always be socially challenged, she comes across someone who could change everything. Can this new someone help free Ellie and Heart from their bond? Or will new feelings arise that neither of them expected?

A unique story that reveals how friends can compliment and challenge each other told with fun sarcastic humor and heart. (Taken from Goodreads)

Stars Given:★★★★★ (4.5 Stars)
 
Overall View:

***this book was given to me by the author through Ethereal Book Reviews (Guest Reviewer Program)***

Heart Tales is unlike anything I've ever read. It's 3 short romance stories that are impossibly cute. Like I said, they're really short so it's a quick and fun read. I read this in about 1 hour and a half after a shitty school day and it made me feel a whole lot better.

Audio Frequency
This one was short, sweet and impossibly cute. It's about two people who love music. They understand each other more than anyone else. It's about doing what you're afraid of. It's pretty short, but still worth the read. I'd love to know what happens to them.

Legal U Turn

Cute friendzone romance story. Short and sweet. I loved how there were two stories being told at the same time.

Heart Set On You
Cute romance about a teenage girl who can see a ghost. It almost made me cry and I hoped he wouldn't leave. Heart was amazing and he symbolized the courage that we have within ourselves to fight our demons and our problems in life.

Read more

EBR Guest Review: Discovering Daniel by Nadine Christian (Emily-Ann Walsh)

EBR Guest Reviewer: Emily-Ann Walsh

Synopsis:
When a shocking memory surfaces that Ava McCoy can't understand, she looks for answers. With her parents and her Uncle Sam trying to convince her that she is only chasing dreams, she is determined to prove that they are wrong, the vision too vivid in her mind to be anything but truth. When her investigation reveals another world so shocking and yet so familiar, it feels as if the pieces of the puzzle are starting to come together - with only one question left unanswered. Who is Daniel? The very memory of him draws her to the sea. Then, the ocean brings her the answer she's seeking. Daniel himself. United, Daniel and Ava must find out why everyone wanted to keep them apart - and who is now trying their best to do it again. They must find the answers - before they succeed. Before Ava loses Daniel all over again - this time, forever. (Taken from Goodreads)





Stars Given:★★★★★ (4.5 Stars) 

Overall View:

***this book was given to me by the author through Ethereal Book Reviews (Guest Reviewer Program)***

Lets start with a little truth. Me and YA novels don’t seem to be having very good relationship lately. It’s like I’m cursed, and the good finds, that I use to be able to fine, all go into to hiding as soon as I walk into a book store, or Library. 

I found a marvelous one last month, and then nothing. (Demon’s at Deadnight, amazing book, you can see my review on goodreads) That is until Discovering Denial, discovered me… see what I did there.. a haha..ha. 

But in all seriousness, this book took me by surprise, a very pleasant surprise. I wasn’t even going to request it until my best friend, who is also a guess reviewer (Jill), started reading it. She didn’t tell me anything about the book, she’s not into spoilers, it was just the way she reacted to some scenes, (loudly) caught my interest. I had to know what prompted her to react like that. 

The day she finished the book I request it, and fell into some pretty good feels for it. The writing tone is calming, and moving. Even when there was,danger, it felt more like urgency then OMG! Which isn’t a bad thing. 

I like how Ava and Daniel took the time to get to know one another. Yes the feelings where there form the start but they didn’t jump in, so much as theylearned to understand what it was they where actually feeling. I hate how some YA have this instance love thing going. I ranted about this before, I ranted about this before in a different review (on goodreads) and as someone who has loved and lost knows, most times your first love will always be lost. For those of you that are still with that first love, I bow to you. XD
This book is heavy on family and connections. I’m close with my family, in a weird way, in the short run we’re nuts and it works. Ava and her family are super close, and she’s a daddy’s girl. This doesn’t change as she grows up, which is nice. I also really like how she still has both parents, and that there wasn’t what you would call a sob story; very refreshing. (YA novels tend to have a broken protagonist half the time, its annoying) Ava is happy, strong, heard headed, and she doesn't let her growing feelings for Daniel change that. [(I was going say, cloud her better judgement, but, that didn’t happen) 

The ending did throw me for a WFT loop. Not in a bad way, but in a, I wanted there to be more. If this novel is going to be a stand alone, then there should have been a epilogue or just something after the fact. The ending was left too open and very unfulfilling in the feels department. (In truth it felt rushed.) I wanted that extra scene, that for-sure closure. 

To conclude, this book is a hidden gem , it will pull you in, and make you believe in the world that is Ava and Denial.

Read more

EBR Guest Review: Discovering Daniel by Nadine Christian (Kendra Mathews)

EBR Guest Reviewer: Kendra Mathews

Synopsis:
When a shocking memory surfaces that Ava McCoy can't understand, she looks for answers. With her parents and her Uncle Sam trying to convince her that she is only chasing dreams, she is determined to prove that they are wrong, the vision too vivid in her mind to be anything but truth. When her investigation reveals another world so shocking and yet so familiar, it feels as if the pieces of the puzzle are starting to come together - with only one question left unanswered. Who is Daniel? The very memory of him draws her to the sea. Then, the ocean brings her the answer she's seeking. Daniel himself. United, Daniel and Ava must find out why everyone wanted to keep them apart - and who is now trying their best to do it again. They must find the answers - before they succeed. Before Ava loses Daniel all over again - this time, forever. (Taken from Goodreads)






Stars Given:★★★★☆ (4 Stars)
 
Overall View:

***this book was given to me by the author through Ethereal Book Reviews (Guest Reviewer Program)***

I really enjoyed reading this novel by Nadine Christian. The writing style of this book was absolutely beautiful, it was very poetic and descriptive. The premise of this book was very well executed in my opinion. The thing that I enjoyed the most about reading this book was that it was very refreshing. This story is a different spin on paranormal young adult books. This story is about a human named Ava who through a string of events finds herself drawn to the character of Daniel who is a Mer. The character development that occurred throughout this book was awesome. I really enjoyed this book, but the thing that made this book very excellent in my opinion was the setting. This book is set in an island town and for anyone that has a love for the ocean this book is amazing. I love how Nadine writes about the ocean and really captures the beauty of it. All in all this is a quick, interesting and well developed young adult read that features a unique paranormal twist. The only reason I am giving this book only four stars is because the pacing of this book often is a bit slow. However other than the pacing I think it's a very good book and would recommend it to anyone craving a good summer read that has a gorgeous setting, a touch of supernatural young adult romance and very well rounded characters.

Read more

EBR Guest Review: My Soul Immortal by Jen Printy (Yvonne)

EBR Guest Reviewer: Yvonne

Synopsis:
Jack’s immortality is exposed when he prevents a liquor store heist, forcing him to flee to protect his secret—a secret not even he understands. But when he meets Leah Winters—a mirror image of his decades-lost love, Lydia—his very soul is laid bare. He begins to question his sanity. Is she real, and if so, what does that mean for Jack and his secret?

Jack’s not the only mystery man in town. A stranger named Artagan hints at knowledge Jack is desperate to possess. But can he trust Artagan, or does the dark newcomer harbor deadly secrets of his own?

As Jack’s bond with Leah grows, so does the danger to her life. Jack must discover just how much he is willing to risk in order to save the woman he already lost once.  (Taken from Goodreads)





Stars Given:★★★★☆ (4 Stars)

Overall View:

***this book was given to me by the author through Ethereal Book Reviews (Guest Reviewer Program)***

When I was first contacted about My Soul Immortal, I was immediately intrigued by the cover and excerpt provided. Crossing my fingers that the story wouldn't turn out to be a full-blown romance story with a just a hint of the fantasy/paranormal genre sprinkled on top (which, in my case, is a bad thing), I immediately decided to accept and read this ARC. I will start with saying I had some problems with certain parts of the book. If you would have asked me about my opinion halfway down the book, I wouldn't have been as positive as I am now that I've finished My Soul Immortal. I know romance is not my favorite genre and this could have influenced my opinion in a bad way, but I found the relationship of the main immortal! character Jack and his 'soulmate' Leah is on the verge of tacky at some points in the story. Sure, Leah's soul remembers Jack after all those years and even though Leah hasn't actually met Jack in person before, they fall hopelessly in love. Jack doesn't hesitate saving her life by trying to sacrifice himself for his true love... And having a daughter of Death named Vita (life in Latin) chasing them made my eyebrows raise real high as well. But I have to admit I didn't see the end coming and it definitely made up for all the little annoyances I've encountered in My Soul Immortal. The story ended with a cliffhanger and surely left me wanting for more! I hope Jen Printy will be able to finish the second book of the Fated Eternals series soon, as I would love to find out how the story continues.

Short Summary
Jack has two problems in his life. He is still hopelessly in love with the long deceased Lydia AND he turns out to be immortal. Already a hundred and seventy years old and counting, he has tried to die numerous times before in attempt to join his Lydia in the afterlife. Unfortunately (or fortunately) for him, he has never succeeded and even lethal wounds conflicted always heal within a couple of minutes. He is forced to live on the border of society, hiding his 'gift' from others and moving around a lot so nobody will realize he never ages. When faith brings him to his next destination, he would never have guessed his life would change forever. He bumps into a girl on the street and when he sees her face, he thinks he is seeing ghosts. She looks exactly like Lydia!

The girl is not a ghost, but nothing other than a soul immortal. Leah Winters has the soul of the late Lydia, and they both soon realize the mutual attraction between the two of them. But the appearance of Jack doesn't seem as unfamiliar to Leah as he originally thinks... And when a mysterious man called Artagan shows interest in them, things get complicated. Leah and Jack are forced to leave the town where they met, and flee to York where her brother is studying. But one of the daughters of Death and another immortal called Vita is now after them, and they never seem safe... 

And Death may be waiting for Leah around every corner. Can Jack save her on time?

Read more

EBR Guest Review: Heart Tales by Celine Garcia (Emily-Ann Walsh)

EBR Guest Reviewer: Emily-Ann Walsh

Synopsis:
Three charming tales of that never ending roller coaster called life, each one sure to pack a sweet punch of candy for the heart. One story involves a girl and a mystery box with handwritten song lyrics. The second follows a guy on the road with memories of the girl that got away, and finally a teen girl who can actually speak to the source of her angst…her heart.

Book Trailer: http://youtu.be/QMcpG6QUz98

Audio Frequency
Geraldine works the counter at Audio Frequency, a small music store that was once the hub of the local music scene. The best part of her day is a little brown box that is delivered to the store with song lyrics written inside, a playful guessing game between a mystery guy who seems to totally get her. Geraldine finds she is ready to make big changes at Audio Frequency and thankfully her best friend Sam just scored her a ticket to the biggest music benefit in town. Geraldine may get everything she wants when she discovers that her mystery guy may be at the event.
A sweet little story about friendship, expectations, and the leaps that must be made to take the love you want.

Legal U Turn
Gwen and Dean share an awkward drive home for their first college break because of convenience. But with hate comes a confiding friendship that may mean more to Dean. After his true feelings slip during a trip home, his friendship with Gwen ends abruptly and they don’t speak or see each other again.

Two years later Dean finds himself driving the same route he and Gwen used to take home years ago and it’s accompanied with the best memories of Gwen. A journey filled with a fun combo of memorable road trips and not so great first impressions causes Dean to wonder, is there a possibility of rekindling one of his greatest friendships?

Heart Set on You
A funny thing happened to Ellie when she woke after her heart transplant. Her donor didn’t exactly die. Instead he stayed behind to both of their confusion and can only be seen by Ellie. Ellie is unable to make friends at school and her only confidant is her heart donor, who she coincidentally nicknames Heart. After thinking she would always be socially challenged, she comes across someone who could change everything. Can this new someone help free Ellie and Heart from their bond? Or will new feelings arise that neither of them expected?

A unique story that reveals how friends can compliment and challenge each other told with fun sarcastic humor and heart. (Taken from Goodreads)

Stars Given:★★★★☆ (4 Stars)

Overall View:

***this book was given to me by the author through Ethereal Book Reviews (Guest Reviewer Program)***

Audio Frequency - 3 Stars
This was a light fluffy short story that made me smile, but there are a few things that are just not sitting right with me. I had a hard time picturing the setting and surroundings. There was no real big description, even between the characters. Not once did the author tell us, directly or indirectly what Geraldine looks like (she’s our protagonist). We got her age, cool, but what about hair color, eye color, or even what’s she was wearing? We didn’t even get a bread crumb.

At one point we got her saying she put on her best dress, okay, again cool, but what does it look like? Was it black, blue, red, short, long? You can pretty much describe a dress in five words or less. Even if it is a short story you still need some basic descriptions. I had this cute little short haired girl in my mind, with no face (creepy right?). We did get a little bit of a description about Sam, but again, very vague. To me, no matter how short a story is, there should be some bit of detail to help created the world in the reads heads, because come on, no one’s psychic and we can’t tell what’s going on in the authors head. But I must say over all this short story, though it lacked, no, missed one of the necessary building blocks to a good story, was nice, pretty and it did give my feels a good enough jump start (more like a kick) to make me smile and go, aww.

Legal U Turn - 4 Stars
I really enjoyed this second short way better than the first. But I have to admit, I didn’t know the main was a man right away. I think it was because in the first short it was a woman, and with the writing style being the same, I got confused. In all, I got a better picture with this short. It had more, and not just for the descriptions, but overall more feelings. I could actually feel my heart start to warm, that and, I was really starting to feel for Dean and Gwen. There were more real emotions in this short, and I really wished it was a little longer. There was so much feels that I can’t even write them all down. I don’t want to give anything away about this short, because I don’t want to spoil anything.

Heart Set On You - 5 Stars

This was so sad and heartwarming at the same time that I almost cried at the end. We start with Ellie, a teenage girl who just had a heart transplant, and for some odd reason she can see Heart (that’s what she names him), the guy she received her donor heart from. She’s the only one that can see or hear him, and because of this she gets picked on in school (kids are so mean!). Outside of the supernatural plot, this story was very heart punching real and so well written. You feel all of Ellie’s troubled emotions and (I know I did) feel the need to help fix all her problems. This was a story of friendship, support, and how one outstretched hand (even invisible) can change someone’s world. Again I don’t want to give too much away (nothing actually) even though this was the longest short, even the littlest of a nibble can ruin the whole thing and I’m just not into that.

Read more

EBR Guest Review: Awakening Foster Kelly by Cara Olsen (Yvonne)

EBR Guest Reviewer: Yvonne

Synopsis:
If only a pile of wayward curls and the inability to stay on her feet were seventeen year-old Foster Kelly’s most pressing concerns. Unfortunately, stubborn hair and clumsiness is just the tip of it. It was only a mistake, but when at the age of five Foster is told “You don’t belong here” the result is one broken heart. These four carelessly spoken words have shaped and shadowed Foster, and now—a senior at Shorecliffs High School—she seeks the wallflower’s existence, denying herself the most casual of friendships, much too afraid that someone will see what Foster believes is certain: she does not belong anywhere – or with anyone. This reality would continue to suit her just fine, however . . .

Love has a long-standing history of undoing broken hearts.

Like a comet, an unexpected arrival knocks Foster out of the crowded, starry sky, sending her directly into the limelight. Exposed and afraid, she will attempt to regain anonymity; but it isn’t so easy now that someone is watching. He pursues this shy enigma, confronting Foster’s deepest fears head-on, and in the process falls wholly and completely in love with her. But there is something he is not saying; a secret capable of certain ruin. There are two probable outcomes: either he will break her heart once and for all, or he will heal it.

In the end, though, it is Foster who must decide if she is worth mending. (Taken from Goodreads)

Stars Given:★★★★☆ (3.5 Stars)


Overall View:

***this book was given to me by the author through Ethereal Book Reviews (Guest Reviewer Program)***

"To me the stories were magic. When I was in their world it felt right. I felt right. Leaving was often very difficult, and I would cry. The moment school, meal or bath finished, there was only one place I wanted to be: the place that wanted me too."

Before I start this review, I want you to keep in mind that I'm not a big fan of the romance genre, and this might have influenced my opinion of Awakening Foster Kelly in a negative way. Because I have to admit that this novel is definitely beautifully written. Awakening Foster Kelly is not an easy read and for some the prose might be a bit dense, but in general I truly enjoyed the extensive descriptions Cara Rosalie Olsen used to describe the life of Foster Kelly. The quote at the beginning of this review could have been written to describe my own feelings when I was a teenager. Foster in general has a lot of similarities to my teenage self, and I guess that explains why I could understand her character so well. A few things felt a bit 'off' and not so credible, but Olsen manages to explain those anomalies at the end of her story. In fact, Olsen dropped a big twist bomb at the end of her book and I was pleasantly surprised with how things turned out to be (although part of it was a bit too cheesy for my taste). All in all a pleasant read and recommended to those who enjoy the romance genre and appreciate beautiful prose.

Seventeen year old Foster Kelly doesn't have an easy life. Not only has she unruly hair and a tendency to be very clumsy, she also has no self esteem and believes she doesn't belong anywhere. She has two friends, the twins Jake and Emily, who help her survive the worse part of the bullies... Although even Jake and Emily don't know a lot about the 'real' Foster; she prefers the life of a wallflower and above all a life full of half-truths. Things take a turn for worse when she bumps into a new guy named Dominic. He treats her horribly that day (I wanted to slap him in the face SO bad at this point), and afterwards just disappears... But their ways cross again when Foster manages to hit his car.

The attitude of Dominic has changed completely since the last time they met. He tries to apologize for his behavior even though he doesn't want to explain yet why he acted the way he did that day. Foster accepts the apology being the sensitive and kind-hearted girl she is, and Dominic now constantly tries to protect her from harm. Emily is not convinced though with this unexplainable change, but tolerates Dominic for Foster's sake. (I still didn't like Dominic at this point.) Slowly, a friendship is starting to grow between Foster and Dominic. Foster actually is starting to be more confident about herself and her incredible singing thanks to Dominic, although she still cannot believe a guy like him is interested in being around her... But Dominic doesn't leave her side, and soon his intentions become clear. He has a secret though; something about his past that he thinks will change everything. And things change indeed when the truth finally comes out...

Read more

EBR Guest Review: Discovering Daniel by Nadine Christian (Yvonne)

EBR Guest Reviewer: Yvonne

Synopsis:

When a shocking memory surfaces that Ava McCoy can’t understand, she looks for answers. With her parents and her Uncle Sam trying to convince her that she is only chasing dreams, she is determined to prove that they are wrong, the vision too vivid in her mind to be anything but truth.

When her investigation reveals another world so shocking and yet so familiar, it feels as if the pieces of the puzzle are starting to come together – with only one question left unanswered. Who is Daniel? The very memory of him draws her to the sea. Then, the ocean brings her the answer she’s seeking. Daniel himself.

United, Daniel and Ava must find out why everyone wanted to keep them apart – and who is now trying their best to do it again. They must find the answers – before they succeed in separating them. Before Ava loses Daniel all over again – this time, forever. (Taken from Goodreads)

Stars Given: ★★★★☆ (4 Stars)

Overall View:

***this book was given to me by the author through Ethereal Book Reviews (Guest Reviewer Program)***

If you are in the mood to read fantasy, but need a break from all those vampire, witch and wizard infested stories, read Discovering Daniel. If you want to read about life on a small island and discover a new underwater world, choose Discovering Daniel. Nadine Christian, living herself on the Pitcairn Island she describes in her story, decides to explore a lesser used mythical creature in her book: mermaids. Not the Ariel/Disney kind of mermaids, but a whole community of Mer both gracious and potentially dangerous... Christian is able to mix this fantasy element succesfully with the story of a young girl growing up on a small island; a girl who will find out soon enough there is more to the island than she originally thinks there is. Discovering Daniel has pleasantly surprised me. This mix between fantasy, romance and island life just worked perfectly, and the writing style just flows and makes the story easy to read. The story has some twists and surprises thrown in as well; I can guarantee you won't see it coming when they reveal the truth about Ava. I will definitely try to check out other of her work in the future!

Read more

Review of The Bunker Diary by Kevin Brooks

Synopsis:
I can't believe I feel for it.

It was still dark when I woke up this morning. As soon as my eyes opened I knew where I was.

A low-ceilinged rectangular building made entirely of whitewashed concrete. There are six little rooms along the main corridor.

There are no windows. No doors. The lift is the only way in or out. What's he going to do to me? What am I going to do?

If I am right the lift will come down in five minutes.

It did.

Only this time it wasn't empty. (Taken from the blurb)

Stars Given: ★★★★☆

Overall Review:
This book is defiantly not for the faint hearted. It is very catchy at the beginning and had me captivated for ages. Primarily it is about six people who get kidnapped and put into a bunker with no way of getting out, they suspect that the kidnapper is watching them through cameras in the ceiling which allows him to punish them if they try to escape. This is the first book that I have read which doesn't have a 'happy ending', which was a bit of a shock as I thought they were going to have some heroic escape planned. Do not read this book if you are squeamish, the author does not leave out any details. It is very disturbing. 

There has been a lot of controversy about this book despite it's many awards due to the gory details and unhappy ending, I wouldn't recommend this to anyone under sixteen.

Character:
Linus-
Description of Character:  Linus run away from home due to his drugged addicted father and the dislike of boarding school, and was captured by the illusive kidnapper when he was living on the streets of London. Being very mature, Linus takes to living in a bunker quite easily and helps to ration the food and keeps everyone in order when the other six prisoners arrive.

Review of Character: I think the way Linus took to being kidnapped was a little to calmly as I imagine many of us would be frantic and panicky, although it probably could just be how his character is as he acts unnaturally calm in other situations. But I like the way the author portrays him as it is in first person so Linus actually writes the diary and it is very funny in places.

Read more