Review of Locks: Rapunzel Unhinged by Sarah J. Pepper

Synopsis:

Rapunzel isn’t the stereotypical Damsel in Distress. Her Bad-Boy Prince Charming is a renowned mercenary, and their Happy Ending plays out like a bad movie. However, she is determined to breakout from her tower prison—love be damned—and do it in a fabulous pair of heels. 
***Gunned down by the Mercenary, the deadliest assassin in The Badass Archives, isn’t exactly Rapunzel’s end-game. Falling for him isn’t either, but his Rated-R demeanor is strangely charming. Even though most girls wouldn’t fall for their captors, Rapunzel isn’t like most dames. Her major girl-boner for the Mercenary is so pathetic it verges on cliché. Yet, in spite of his appeal, Rapunzel must escape before she’s locked away in the Château de Immortelle’s highest tower—forever  (Taken from Goodreads)

Stars Given:★★★★★

Overall View:
I just love to read retellings of well known fairy tales.  It really brings me back to my childhood.  This book, like many of the retellings that I have read, is great! Another book to put down on my to-read-again list.  What made this story so special is that the main character isn't a Damsel in Distress waiting for her prince to save her.  No, this character made me proud that I am female.  With so many books out there, most of the stories portray the female lead as a weak character who is often guided by her prince.  This story gave me hope that one day, stories would stop revolving around a weak female.  Of course, it is fine to be weak in certain situations, but with the literature world dominated by mostly weaker female characters, it is refreshing to find a book like this.  I am not painting an image that ALL authors place the female in a weaker role on purpose, but sometimes I can see the "Damsel in Distress" role creeping up behind the scenes of the story.  Well, needless to say, everyone needs to read this book! I highly recommend it for people who enjoy fairy tales and strong female leads.

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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

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LGBT MONTH Review of Caught in the Crossfire by Juliann Rich

Synopsis:
Two boys at Bible camp; one forbidden love.

That is the dilemma sixteen-year-old Jonathan Cooper faces when he goes away to Spirit Lake Bible Camp, an oasis for teen believers situated along Minnesota’s rugged north shore. He is expecting a summer of mosquito bites, bonfires with s’mores, and photography classes with Simon, his favorite counselor, who always helps Jonathan see his life in perfect focus.

What he isn’t expecting is Ian McGuire, a new camper who openly argues against phrases like pray the gay away. Ian is certain of many things, including what could happen between them if only Jonathan could surrender to his feelings. Jonathan, however, tosses in a storm of indecision between his belief in God and his inability to stay away from Ian. When a real storm hits and Ian is lost in it, Jonathan is forced to make a public decision that changes his life. (Taken from Goodreads)

Stars Given:★★★★★

Overall View:
This was a great book to end my weekend.  Although I didn't see the happy ending I was hoping to find (probably continued in the next book Search for Grace), the ending was quite pleasing to me.  I loved all of the characters, except for that one guy....(readers who have read the book may know who that one guy is...), but they all seemed very realistic, mostly their personalities and reactions to certain situations.  This pleases me because I love characters that reflect normal, real people.  This makes it easier for readers, such as myself, to become engaged into the book.  Another thing I like about this book is how to can easily reveal the plot, and solve it in such a thin book.  I was expecting it to carry onto the next book, but Jonathan and Ian did just get over their first relationship bump pretty quickly.  This leaves the readers to anticipate for more of Jonathan's and Ian's story.  If I ever have more time, I would definitely pick this book up again and read it.  This book holds a lot of potential so I am expecting the next one to be just as amazing.

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LGBT MONTH Review of Turning 16 by Perie Wolford

Synopsis:
New Gay Series To Pay Tribute To Sixteen Candles Movie and Other Awesome John Hughes Movies (The Second Edition)

Sam never liked his birthdays because not a single one of them was happy... When he turned 1, he fell face-down into his birthday cake; when he turned 5, he broke his left arm and when he turned 7, he broke his right arm and his left leg; when he turned 12, his house caught fire. Now Sam is about to turn 16 and he is dreading the day. The only birthday wish he has is for Jake who is the Mr. Popular of Arcadia High to even acknowledge his existence, or better yet give him a happy-birthday kiss.

But Sam knows that it’s not gonna happen. Or is it?

Disclaimer: The plot of the books substantially varies from the John Hughes movies and all the references to the movies are made as a tribute to their awesomeness. (Taken from Goodreads)

Stars Given:★★★★★

Overall View:
I honestly just loved this book because of the simplicity.  There weren't any characters that I had disliked, and Sam was a very likable character.  I feel like almost every teen could relate to this book because of the problems that characters, especially Sam, face.  Not only can this relate to gay people in high school, but this book can also relate to others with different orientations too.  I really can't wait to read the second book and join Sam on another mini adventure again!  It is just one of the cutest books ever, I am definitely going to reread this book again!  I love how Sam has dreams about Jake, then both Jake and Mitch.  It just added a little more spice to the already perfect book.  This is recommended for those who would love to experience their high school love all over again...or if for those who would just want something light and cute to read.

Character:
Sam -
Description of Character: a hopelessly romantic boy with an indestructible sense of wonder and ever-optimistic spirit, who faces difficulties with a sarcastic smile on his face.


Review of Character: Sam was such a likable character, which is one reason why this book deserves 5 stars.  I found him cute, and his indecisiveness just made him a better character.  Why?  This is because many of us teens can relate to Sam.  Whether we are choosing between two future lovers, or two friends, we know what it is like to be torn between two choices.  I love how realistic this book is, and how Sam is relateable to many of us teenagers.  Because Sam is such a realistic character, he has changed the atmosphere of this whole book. 


*Supporting characters not listed

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LGBT MONTH Review of Fan Art by Sarah Tregay

Synopsis:
When the picture tells the story…

Senior year is almost over, and Jamie Peterson has a big problem. Not college—that’s all set. Not prom—he’ll find a date somehow. No, it’s the worst problem of all: he’s fallen for his best friend.

As much as Jamie tries to keep it under wraps, everyone seems to know where his affections lie, and the giggling girls in art class are determined to help Jamie get together with Mason. But Jamie isn’t sure if that’s what he wants—because as much as Jamie would like to come clean to Mason, what if the truth ruins everything? What if there are no more road trips, taco dinners, or movie nights? Does he dare risk a childhood friendship for romance?

This book is about what happens when a picture reveals what we can’t say, when art is truer than life, and how falling in love is easy, except when it’s not. Fan Art explores the joys and pains of friendship, of pressing boundaries, and how facing our worst fears can sometimes lead us to what we want most. (Taken from Goodreads)

Stars Given:★★★★★

Overall View:
I don't know what else to say.  This story was sweet, cute, and just completely adorable!  Each page was definitely worth reading, and I really couldn't put the book down.  I read this book all in one sitting and just couldn't contain my happiness when I finished reading it.  I don't have any problems with the characters in this book.  I loved all of them, they were so dynamic and seemed so real because their personality was so different.  I also love how this book also tackles the LGBT discrimination issue.  Some may not realize it, but it is a big problem in some areas in the world.  This book is both educational and enjoyable in two different ways.  I love this book and I will definitely reread this book whenever I have time.  I didn't see at mistakes in the book at all, and I didn't have to skim through any of the pages in order to get to the end of this book.  I was able to read and enjoy every single word.  This book is one that I would definitely recommend to those who love sweet light stories.  I am hoping that there will be a short story of Jamie and Mason!

Character:
Jamie Peterson -
Description of Character: How about we let the pictures tell the story of Jamie? http://sarahtregay.com/fanart.html


Review of Character: Jamie is probably one of the cutest characters ever.  The way he over thinks and tries to protect his friend just makes him the most adorable character out of every other one.  Jamie had stayed the same throughout the story, but he has so much energy, and one of the best personalities, it had made him seem so real.  I fell in love with his character as the story revealed more about Jamie.  From when he realized he was gay, to the time he fell in love with his best friend.  What could be better than stories that show the character's true personality?  I wouldn't mind learning more about Jamie because he is such an interesting character, one that would hold my interest throughout the whole book.

*Supporting characters not listed

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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.  

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Review of Hope in the Rain by Sandy Sinnett

Synopsis:
‘But as I stood there, feeling the pain of unfulfilled dreams, all I could do was cry harder and harder, inconsolable as I thought about the uncertain future in front of me. My hot tears mingled with the cold rain and I shouted up into the sky – calling out for him, praying he would hear me somehow. I’m so sorry I let you go – I’m sorry I didn’t tell you! I love you!’

Laci Kramer believes that good things follow the rain – how it washes away the old and brings in the new. Since losing her husband of 24 years, her life revolves around her kids and her job. But on one rainy day in July, aboard a flight back home, something good sits down right next to her and changes her life forever.

Mitch Young is a widower from North Carolina. Hope is a useless commodity since losing his wife to breast cancer three years ago. That's until he meets Laci, and she becomes an unexpected surprise he can't resist. Laci and Mitch both learn to love again and an old-fashioned romance ensues. Romance meets reality however, when their relationship falls under scrutiny from Mitch's family and Laci is faced with the toughest challenge of her life.

Will she allow God to see them through the storms ahead or will she let Mitch go to spare him from repeating the same pain from his past? Laci begins to lose hope in love and life...until it rains. (Taken from Goodreads)

Stars Given:★★★☆☆

Overall View:
I am honestly not sure what I want to say about this book.  Although I did enjoy it, there were just some parts that I found a little boring, or irritating.  I loved the characters, but Laci just got onto my nerves at times.  I didn't understand why she did what she did at times, and I felt as if she hadn't matured or developed at all until the end of the book.  I admire the fact that Mitch pulled through, even during the storms, because I can only imagine how hard it was for him.  I also liked Evan and Caleb's characters.  They did a good job as supporting characters, compared to Mitch's brother.  What I didn't like about the book was how long it took for the readers to see the problem.  I had to read over half of the book to find out what the big problem is, which was them crammed into a few chapters, and was resolved in about two or three pages.  Although the plot of the book is simple, yet interesting enough for me to pick up the book, the book just started out really slowly.  I began to scan through a few of the pages, just because I was really excited to find out where the action will begin.  Overall, this was a very sweet and loving story, but its not something that I would crave about too much.

Character:
Laci -
Description of Character: Laci has lots her husband a few years ago in a car accident, and all she has left are her children.  Laci is an upbeat woman who is willing to sacrifice anything for her children.  When grieve strikes her, she feels like she is unable to find love again, but then she meets Mitch.  She quickly falls in love again, but is unsure whether or not it will work out.


Review of Character: I tried my best to like Laci but it was difficult at times because of her stubbornness.  Is that a good thing?  Maybe.  I loved the sweet romance between Laci and Mitch.  Their love story was very believable is certain aspects, but most of it was very predictable.  Its hard to say a lot without having to spoil the story, but Laci does progress a little throughout the story.  She is a great character, although I wasn't in love with her.  She is very strong, which is different from many books because they always portray female protagonists as "weak".  As you can tell, I had a difficult time assessing Laci because I honestly have two different opinions about her.

*Supporting characters not listed

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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!

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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

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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

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EBR Guest Review: Discovering Daniel by Nadine Christian (Angela Vasquez)

EBR Guest Reviewer: Angela Vasquez

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:★★★☆☆ (3 Stars)

Overall View:

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

Well I have a hard time finishing this book, but we are not going to start with that.

Let's do something better.

Ava hasn’t seen Daniel, in a long time, she hasn’t even remembered the day she met him, but she remembers and never forget him. Now Ava is a 17 years old girl, she lives in the Pitcairn Islands, with her parents, and her uncle and aunt, but when her father gets sick again, and has to travel to New Zealand to receive treatment, she starts to think that maybe her life it's not that normal at all.
 
There's something missing about her such as the day when the accident happened, which she barely remembers.  When she starts looking, everything seems messy, including a boy named Daniel. But now, she knows why nobody wants to tell her the things she forgot, it's because it is
something bigger than she needs to know. She needs to find him, no matter the cost. When she does she can't believe it, Daniel it’s a mermaid or better mer-male. They can't see each other because that draws problems to each one of their worlds. But, after seeing him she know she can't stop. They fall in love with each other, but as a couple, it started to cause problems. Daniel loves his world and he’s not ready to leave it, and Ava would never ask him that. The mer-males can change their form from mermaids to “walkers “, but the female has one choice, is it mermaid or human.

But everything has its consequences, and Daniel and Ava had to deal with them. And sometimes the people you trust most are the ones who are making things happen. So, a journey starts and there’s no security about what can happen to neither of both.

I liked a lot of thing about this book, such as the relationship that Ava has with her family. We also got to see how  life is when you live on an island, and of course I loved the mermaid world, it was amazingly described.  The city of Zeno I mean wow, the transformation that they had to  go through to enter different worlds were so explicit, ouch!! It was a good book, perfect for teens, my deal is that it was really slow, and when things really started to happen, it was really quick, you didn't have time to digest everything. But it was good and had so much cuteness in the love they share. I liked that the decision that Ava made was deeply though about first and that she is not a dump girl that fall for the guy, it's more complex than that.

I will give it 3 stars because I love this couple and the whole mermaid world was well explained, I could imagine myself down there in the ocean.

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EBR Guest Review: Awakening Foster Kelly by Cara Olsen (Emily-Ann Walsh)

EBR Guest Reviewer: Emily-Ann Walsh

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 Stars)

Overall View:

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

I have to say this was a long book, an unnecessarily long book. I would be reading and my eyes would wonder off the page and then I would have my own daydreams. It kind of reminded me of how use to try and I mean try to study for biology when I was in high school (that was so long ago, oh how I don’t miss it). The same bloody thing would happen. I would read a whole page and not know what in flaming hell I just read. This wasn’t a bad book, but it wasn’t really all that good either.

Foster would explain every little thing. I couldn’t follow the dialog because she would analyze for like two pages and then I would forget what the hell was said in the first place. There was no proper flow for most of it; but, there is a but, at the times that there was some pretty good dialog, I actually get into the story, because it flowed.

 I’m not going to lie, I speed read a lot throughout this book, because frankly, I found it a bit boring. I just couldn’t get into it; there was just too much description. I’m pretty sure if you cut out all the filler (because come-on that’s what it was) you would have a very good book at about 300 pages.

When the love interest finally came a barging in, at about, I don’t know, almost half way into the book, (he’s a total asshat) it did get a tiny bit more interesting. It prompted me to actually finish the book and not skip to the end, (Believe me it crossed my mind on more than on occasion) and to me, when Dominic finally enters, it was like the story finally got underway, still remarkably slowly though.

The ending didn’t really throw me that much, I kind of had it figured out that she was either one of two things. I will not say them because it will spoil the ending. That ending did save the book for me, thus why I’m giving it a 3 star rating instead of a 2 star.

If you are going to read this book, note that you don’t have to read every single paragraph, you aren’t missing much of anything form the main story. It’s just filler and babble, which Foster spurts while trying to state the obvious. For this book it’s all about the ending, even if you’re going to have to push yourself to reach it. (This is actually a little ironic, read the book and you’ll know what I’m saying.)

My overall impression, I’m happy the book is over.

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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.

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EBR Guest Review: Heart Tales by Celine Garcia (Jill-Ann Guyette)

EBR Guest Reviewer: Jill-Ann Guyette

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:★★★★★ (5 Stars)

Overall View:

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

I needed this book. This book for me was like eating a bowl of ice cream and it hitting every spot you didn’t know needed to be hit. There is something to be said for happy endings and this book has 3 of them. I’ve never been into short stories. I tend to like more background. But I after finishing this quick read I feel content and left satisfied.

I recommend this book to anyone who needs a mood picker upper! To anyone who just read a nasty book that made them cringe in disgust. And, to anyone who needs a break from a lengthy read! The length of this book did not take away from the goal of making readers feel good.

Garcia did everything perfectly and I think she hit the nail on the head.

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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!

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EBR Guest Review: A Native's Tongue by Michael D. Dennis (Jill-Ann Guyette)

EBR Guest Reviewer: Jill-Ann Guyette

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:★★☆☆☆ (2 Stars)

Overall View:

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

Where do I even start? Everyone says to start at the beginning. Maybe I should start at the end and say, WHAT JUST HAPPENED? I seriously had to go back and re-read to confirm it ended as it did and that my confusion wasn’t unjust. It was. I re-read the last page 4-5 times, each time I was no less confused as I was the first time. Right now I’m starting to think I’m more confused than I was the first time I read it.

That was just the end. The beginning and the middle, there are no words to express the absolute disgust I felt reading this book. At first I thought it was just the writing style. How the transitions were made from one character to the other and from one point in time to the past, back to the present. I felt like I was being thrown around without any notice or care of how I hit the ground. I soon realized that how the characters were being treated and treating one another disturbed me.

Although, it was great getting into the mind of a lonely older woman, the heart and hurt of a man who’s best friend and sister haunts his memory daily and then the soul of a spoiled and troubled socialite. I guess I would recommend this book to others only for the fact I’d like to see if they react the same as I.

I give this book 2 stars.....yeah that’s all I got....

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LGBT MONTH Review of Falling from the Sky by Nikki Godwin

Synopsis:
All stability in sixteen-year-old Ridge McCoy’s life crashed and burned in the plane crash that killed his dad. This summer-long basketball camp is his chance to improve his skills and escape his problems back home. But his summer plans take a turn in an unexpected direction when he meets Micah Youngblood, the guy who runs the carousel at the local mall and has a reputation for devouring straight boys’ heterosexuality for breakfast, alongside his chocolate chip pancakes.

Ridge needs a way to avoid the guys at camp, whose only quest for the summer is to drown in beer and hook up with girls. So when Micah offers to explain how the ten unique horses on the carousel are significant to his tribe, Ridge takes him up on it. Still, Ridge can't decide if this is a bad thing or not. All he knows is that he hasn’t felt this alive since his dad fell from the sky, and as the horse adventures come to an end, Ridge finds himself falling as well – for Micah. (Taken from Goodreads)

Stars Given:★★★★★

Overall View:
I honestly found this book to be very sweet and heart warming.  I loved both Micah and Ridge, although there were moments in the story where I really wanted to just slap one of them across the face.  Sort of in a good way though.  I love how this story doesn't only focus on being gay, but it also focuses on a character (Micah) who doesn't love labels.  A world without labels.  That would bring us world peace.  Micah did show a lot of personality, the ups and downs, which made me just love Micah.  He can be fun, and strong, but he also has a weak vulnerable side that allows us to look into Micah's mind and past.  There is no way to really explain how I truly felt about this book.  It is more than just a book to me.  The characters all felt so real, and I really sympathized with both Micah and Ridge.  They were totally perfect for each other and I know this may not be possible, but I really hope to find a sequel to this book in my hands one day.  I want to learn more about Micah and Ridge's relationship when he returns...if possible....I'm begging you Nikki Godwin...I need to see it!  One of the best books I have read in a while.  I really need the sequel, so please make one...I will begin praying for airplanes if there is.

Character:
Ridge -
Description of Character: Ridge's life has fallen apart due to many of the circumstances that has surrounded him.  He still can't believe his father is now gone, and his mother is still mourning, and his brother...well, he's not exactly the best brother. To get away from his problems at home, he decides to go in a basketball camp and expects to improve his skills as a basketball player, but what he doesn't expect is love.


Review of Character: Ridge was a very likable character.  Although I did want to slap him a few times to wake him up from his misery phase, I really liked him, mostly when he was with Micah.  He had a lot of dynamic as a character, showing both sides of him, from praying to airplanes, to playing video games at Micah's, the different emotions he showed lead me to believe that there really is a boy, exactly like Ridge, somewhere out there.  I had not expected this because I usually dislike the main character of books for several reasons, but Ridge really grabbed my attention when I read this book.


*Supporting characters not listed

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