Fallen Angels Series by Mary Jo Putney

* RITA Award and Golden Choice finalist

A Welsh Methodist minister's daughter changes her life when she appeals for help to Nicholas Davies, a half-Gypsy earl...
They called him the Demon Earl. They said he could do anything. Son of a rogue and a Gypsy, Nicholas Davies was a notorious rake until a shattering betrayal left him alone and embittered in the Welsh countryside. Desperation drives quiet schoolteacher Clare Morgan to ask the Demon Earl to help save her village. Unwilling to involve himself in the problems of others, Nicholas sets an impossible price on his aid—only if Clare agrees to live with him for three months, letting the world think the worst, will he intervene. Furiously Clare accepts his outrageous challenge, and the two are swept into an intoxicating Regency world of danger and desire. As allies, Clare and Nicholas fight to save her community. As adversaries, they explore the hazardous terrain of power and sensuality. And as lovers, they surrender to a passion that threatens the very foundations of their lives.

I loved Ms. Putneys YA series Dark Mirror so much I thought I'd check out her adult books & I LOVED this book! Fasted paced adventure. Mystery & ROMANCE! Can't wait to read the other 4 in the series! 

Abandon Trilogy by Meg Cabot

New from #1 New York Times bestselling author Meg Cabot, a dark, fantastical story about this world . . . and the underworld.

Though she tries returning to the life she knew before the accident, Pierce can't help but feel at once a part of this world, and apart from it. Yet she's never alone . . . because someone is always watching her. Escape from the realm of the dead is impossible when someone there wants you back. But now she's moved to a new town. Maybe at her new school, she can start fresh. Maybe she can stop feeling so afraid.

Only she can't. Because even here, he finds her. That's how desperately he wants her back. She knows he's no guardian angel, and his dark world isn't exactly heaven, yet she can't stay away . . . especially since he always appears when she least expects it, but exactly when she needs him most. But if she lets herself fall any further, she may just find herself back in the one place she most fears: the Underworld.

Anything to do with Mythology intrigues me and I have recently found so many "rewrites" of classical mythological stories that its just exciting! I absolutely loved this story. The fact that events aren't just laid out for you BAM, it all slowly comes out throughout the story is something that really grabbed my attention. When I would have maybe put the book down I was dying to know the what & why of it all & therefore a new Meg Cabot fan was born! 

From #1 New York Times bestselling author Meg Cabot, the dark reimagining of the Persephone myth begun in ABANDON continues ... into the Underworld.

Seventeen-year-old Pierce Oliviera isn't dead. Not this time.

But she is being held against her will in the dim, twilit world between heaven and hell, where the spirits of the deceased wait before embarking upon their final journey. Her captor, John Hayden, claims it's for her own safety. Because not all the departed are dear. Some are so unhappy with where they ended up after leaving the Underworld, they've come back as Furies, intent on vengeance . . . on the one who sent them there and on the one whom he loves. But while Pierce might be safe from the Furies in the Underworld, far worse dangers could be lurking for her there . . . and they might have more to do with its ruler than with his enemies.And unless Pierce is careful, this time there'll be no escape.

I absolutely loved this book! Better than the first! I can't wait for the last one! Of course Underworld ends in a way that will leave you gasping in shock! I love the way Meg mixes the Myth with the modern day, showing all the misconceptions & different viewpoints!! Ahhhhh it will be such a hard wait for AWAKEN!

Death has her in his clutches. She doesn’t want him to let go.
Seventeen-year-old Pierce Oliviera knew by accepting the love of John Hayden, she’d be forced to live forever in the one place she’s always dreaded most: the Underworld. The sacrifice seemed worth it, though, because it meant she could be with the boy she loves.
But now her happiness — and safety — are threatened, all because the Furies have discovered that John has broken one of their strictest rules: He revived a human soul.
If the balance between life and death isn’t fixed, both the Underworld and Pierce’s home back on earth will be wiped away. But there’s only one way to restore order. Someone has to die.

Amazing end to a complex and often heart stopping story. I found myself in tears a couple of times and holding my breathe at others. I had many ideas of how I wanted this series to end and I'll have to be honest, none of them even compared to how it actually all wrapped up. Again, if you have any interest in Mythology pick this series up!

 

Flower Trilogy by Lauren Royal

England, 1673 The Ashcroft family motto is "Question Convention," and eldest sister Violet agrees with the sentiment completely. For one thing, she's not planning to marry. Plain Violet is smart enough to realize any suitors would be after her large inheritance, or else interested in her beautiful younger sisters--and she'd much rather spend her time improving her mind than risking her tender heart...
After wasting six years wooing a lady who eloped with another man, Ford Chase, the handsome and eccentric Viscount Lakefield, has had it with women. Ford is passionate about his scientific pursuits and doesn't need to find love, thank you very much. When an unwelcome distraction--in the form of his six-year-old niece--is dropped in his lap, he enlists the help of an uncommonly intelligent neighbor named Violet. But Violet's surprising allure proves to be even more distracting, leading to a passion the likes of which he's never even imagined…


Lauren Royal is an absolutely fabulous & amazing writer! I loved how she finishes the Chases stories while beginning a new wonderful series. I fell in love with Ford who I thought was kinda obnoxious & flighty in the Jewel Trilogy. He is actually kinda dashing! When his nose isn't stuck in a science book or he's stuck in his laboratory!

England, 1677 Lily Ashcroft is far and away the most conventional member of her eccentric family. Though she fell for dashing Oxford professor Lord Randal Nesbitt at the tender age of sixteen, she buried her feelings in deference to society's expectation that her older sisters marry first. Four years later, her sister Rose has now set her sights on Rand--and though it breaks her heart, what else can Lily do but help her beloved sister land the man of her dreams?

What no one considers are Rand's feelings on the matter. He's been nursing a secret affection for sweet, compassionate Lily ever since their first meeting. But Rose is just as beautiful and shares his academic interests. Now he finds himself caught between two lovely sisters--the one he's expected to wed and the one who's captured his heart... 


I LOVED Lily's story! She is the sweetest of the 3 sisters for sure! I loved the emotional aspect & the fact that you could see something was there in Violet! Such a sweet love story! The only thing that is lacking in this series that there was plenty of in the Jewel Trilogy was action & adventure!  

Dark Mirror Series by M.J. Putney

Lady Victoria Mansfield, youngest daughter of the earl and countess of Fairmount, is destined for a charmed life. Soon she will be presented during the London season, where she can choose a mate worthy of her status. 

Yet Tory has a shameful secret—a secret so powerful that, if exposed, it could strip her of her position and disgrace her family forever. Tory’s blood is tainted . . . by magic. When a shocking accident forces Tory to demonstrate her despised skill, the secret she’s fought so hard to hide is revealed for all to see. She is immediately exiled to Lackland Abbey, a reform school for young men and women in her position. There she will learn to suppress her deplorable talents and maybe, if she’s one of the lucky ones, be able to return to society. But Tory’s life is about to change forever. All that she’s ever known or considered important will be challenged. What lies ahead is only the beginning of a strange and wonderful journey into a world where destiny and magic come together, where true love and friendship find her, and where courage and strength of character are the only things that determine a young girl’s worth.

I bought this book on a whim & I was NOT disappointed! I was sold hook line & sinker!! I felt that it was very well written, intriguing from the beginning & it just got better with each chapter!

Fallen From Grace A Bonus Dark Mirror Short Story

Allarde, a gorgeous, wealthy noble has hidden his true nature. Discover his diary and witness his sudden fall from grace.

Well, it's VERY short but it was a fun read after Dark Mirror. Gives you a bit more insight into Allarde. *sigh* 

The Irregulars return home to 1803 England safely, but their worldview has changed.  Not only have their heroic efforts at Dunkirk given them pride and confidence but their dangerous mission has increased their magical powers. Tory delights in the ever deepening bond she shares with Allarde until she discovers how powerfully he is connected to his ancient family estate—the lands he will not inherit unless he denies his magical powers and chooses a nonmagical mate. If Tory really loves him, she must walk away—but does she have the strength to leave the love of her life? Cynthia’s heroic efforts at Dunkirk have won her the respect of the Irregulars, but her sharp tongue keeps everyone at a distance. Isolated and very alone at Lackland Abbey over the Christmas holidays, she reluctantly agrees to join Jack Rainford and his family for their celebration even though they’re commoners, far below her own noble rank. The warm welcome of the Rainfords makes her feel happier and more accepted than she has ever been. But she can’t possibly be falling in love with flirtatious Jack! Can she? Then the Irregulars are drawn into a dangerous attempt to rescue a vitally important French scientist from Nazi-occupied France. Tory and Allarde must work together because countless lives are at stake. Disaster strikes and not only is their mission threatened, but their very lives. Can magic and their loyalty to each other help them survive to return home? 

Oh yes, it can get better! AND it SURE did! More adventure & more danger for the irregulars as well as learning more about some which is kind of interesting regarding some of them heartbreaking regarding others! I loved seeing the bonds & relationships grow & change among the irregulars.

Tory and her friends are celebrating the success of a second mission to aid WWII Britain when an urgent summons calls them back to their own time: Napoleon is on the brink of invading England. Can a handful of young mages stop an army? In desperation, Merlin’s Irregulars ask Rebecca Weiss, an untrained telepath from 1940, to come back to 1804 and change Napoleon’s mind before it’s too late. As Tory and Allarde make a commitment that will cost him his inheritance, Rebecca promises to do what she can to stop Napoleon even though she is unsure of her magical abilities. But Tory and her friends saved the Weiss family from Nazi imprisonment, and Rebecca will risk anything, even her life and her budding relationship with Nick Rainford, to repay them. A daring mission takes Tory and Rebecca and their friends into the heart of the Army of Boulogne, where Napoleon is plotting invasion. But while their success may save England, they must still face the bittersweet consequences of their decisions when they return home.

What an end to a fabulous series. Twists & turns that you actually don't expect make this probably my fave of the series. Although I was sad to see it come to an end I felt Ms. Putney did a fab job! If you like adventure, mystery & a hint of romance definitely check out this series.

Firelight Series by Sophie Jordan

A hidden truth.
Mortal enemies.
Doomed love.

Marked as special at an early age, Jacinda knows her every move is watched. But she longs for freedom to make her own choices. When she breaks the most sacred tenet among her kind, she nearly pays with her life. Until a beautiful stranger saves her. A stranger who was sent to hunt those like her. For Jacinda is a draki—a descendant of dragons whose greatest defense is her secret ability to shift into human form.

Forced to flee into the mortal world with her family, Jacinda struggles to adapt to her new surroundings. The only bright light is Will. Gorgeous, elusive Will who stirs her inner draki to life. Although she is irresistibly drawn to him, Jacinda knows Will's dark secret: He and his family are hunters. She should avoid him at all costs. But her inner draki is slowly slipping away—if it dies she will be left as a human forever. She'll do anything to prevent that. Even if it means getting closer to her most dangerous enemy.

Mythical powers and breathtaking romance ignite in this story of a girl who defies all expectations and whose love crosses an ancient divide.

Sophie creates a completely unique & breathtaking world in Firelight. An amazing modern day fairy tale. I found the book very well written & extremely easy to get into. I was hooked within the first two pages & didn't put the book down until I finished (in less than a day!) If you're looking for something just a little bit different you'll definitely want to check it out!

An Impossible Romance.
Bitter Rivalries.
Deadly Choices.

To save the life of the boy she loves, Jacinda did the unthinkable: She betrayed the most closely guarded secret of her kind. Now she must return to the protection of her pride knowing she might never see Will again—and worse, that because his mind has been shaded, Will’s memories of that fateful night and why she had to flee are gone. Back home, Jacinda is greeted with hostility and must work to prove her loyalty for both her sake and her family’s. Among the few who will even talk to her are Cassian, the pride’s heir apparent who has always wanted her, and her sister, Tamra, who has been forever changed by a twist of fate. Jacinda knows that she should forget Will and move on—that if he managed to remember and keep his promise to find her, it would only endanger them both. Yet she clings to the hope that someday they will be together again. When the chance arrives to follow her heart, will she risk everything for love?

I love Jacinda! This second book was very emotional for me. Kinda like a roller coaster. Again of course very well written. Another character is developed a lot more & I found my loyalties being torn. A surprise around every corner...Everything seems so very hopeless one moment & like nothing is impossible the next moment. 

Starcrossed Trilogy by Josephine Angelini

Helen Hamilton has spent her entire sixteen years trying to hide how different she is—now it's getting harder. She's having nightmares of a desperate desert journey, visions of three women weeping tears of blood. And why is she possessed by the sudden, unstoppable urge to kill the handsome new boy in school, Lucas Delos?

A love written in the stars . . .

A feud started in ancient Greece . . .

A curse not even the gods can break.

So the book overview got my attention, but I really didn't know what direction the story was headed in. I was so extremely surprised & totally delighted by this book, I couldn't put it down. I READ IT IN JUST a lil over a day! Josie is an amazing storyteller. Her characters are so well developed & very easy to fall in love(or hate) with and its just so refreshing!

Can true love be forgotten? As the only scion who can descend into the Underworld, Helen Hamilton has been given a nearly impossible task. By night she wanders through Hades, trying to stop the endless cycle of revenge that has cursed her family. By day she struggles to overcome the fatigue that is rapidly eroding her sanity. Without Lucas by her side, Helen is not sure she has the strength to go on. Just as Helen is pushed to her breaking point, a mysterious new Scion comes to her rescue. Funny and brave, Orion shields her from the dangers of the Underworld. But time is running out—a ruthless foe plots against them, and the Furies' cry for blood is growing louder.

As the ancient Greek world collides with the mortal one, Helen's sheltered life on Nantucket descends into chaos. But the hardest task of all will be forgetting Lucas Delos.

Ok if someone would have told me that Dreamless was better than Starcrossed I would have lol'd em! Guess what....? EVEN BETTER THAN THE FIRST! Helen is so my Hero!!! As we go deeper into the story, we find out more drama, more lies, more characters to love & definitely MORE characters you'll love to hate! I cried several times in this book & I held my breathe ALOT! The only bad part about the book is the long wait for the final installment......NEXT YEAR!

Once by Anna Carey

When you're being hunted, who can you trust?

For the first time since she escaped from her school many months ago, Eve can sleep soundly. She's living in Califia, a haven for women, protected from the terrifying fate that awaits orphaned girls in The New America.

But her safety came at a price: She was forced to abandon Caleb, the boy she loves, wounded and alone at the city gates. When Eve gets word that Caleb is in trouble, she sets out into the wild again to rescue him, only to be captured and brought to the City of Sand, the capital of The New America.

Trapped inside the City walls, Eve uncovers a shocking secret about her past—and is forced to confront the harsh reality of her future. When she discovers Caleb is alive, Eve attempts to flee her prison so they can be together—but the consequences could be deadly. She must make a desperate choice to save the ones she loves . . . or risk losing Caleb forever.

Once again, Anna Carey has managed to take me on that emotional roller coaster. She has such a gift! I didn't think ANYTHING could be better than Eve. If I had to sum up Once in a word it would be....bittersweet. The twists and turns that make up this amazing book will shock you as well as make your heart swell with love once again. If you are anything like me, you will also cry...several times, sometimes with the pure joy of a certain situation & others in just shock, anger & plain old hurt & even betrayal . This is one of those books that you can't wait to get to the end of yet you really don't want it to be over. Rise, book 3 in the Eve Trilogy is scheduled for April 2, 2013 & it sure seems like a million years away right now...

A Breath of Eyre by Eve Marie Mont

In this stunning, imaginative novel, Eve Marie Mont transports her modern-day heroine into the life of Jane Eyre to create a mesmerizing story of love, longing, and finding your place in the world. . .Emma Townsend has always believed in stories—the ones she reads voraciously, and the ones she creates. Perhaps it's because she feels like an outsider at her exclusive prep school, or because her stepmother doesn't come close to filling the void left by her mother's death. And her only romantic prospect—apart from a crush on her English teacher—is Gray Newman, a long-time friend who just adds to Emma's confusion. But escape soon arrives in an old leather-bound copy of Jane Eyre. . .Reading of Jane's isolation sparks a deep sense of kinship. Then fate takes things a leap further when a lightning storm catapults Emma right into Jane's body and her nineteenth-century world. As governess at Thornfield, Emma has a sense of belonging she's never known—and an attraction to the brooding Mr. Rochester. Now, moving between her two realities and uncovering secrets in both, Emma must decide whether her destiny lies in the pages of Jane's story, or in the unwritten chapters of her own. . .

What a great book & excellent way to bring me to a love of the classics! Loved how the modern & past stories intertwined & correlated! Can't wait for the next book.

For Darkness Shows the Stars by Diana Peterfreund

It's been several generations since a genetic experiment gone wrong caused the Reduction, decimating humanity and giving rise to a Luddite nobility who outlawed most technology.

Elliot North has always known her place in this world. Four years ago Elliot refused to run away with her childhood sweetheart, the servant Kai, choosing duty to her family's estate over love. Since then the world has changed: a new class of Post-Reductionists is jumpstarting the wheel of progress, and Elliot's estate is foundering, forcing her to rent land to the mysterious Cloud Fleet, a group of shipbuilders that includes renowned explorer Captain Malakai Wentforth—an almost unrecognizable Kai. And while Elliot wonders if this could be their second chance, Kai seems determined to show Elliot exactly what she gave up when she let him go.

But Elliot soon discovers her old friend carries a secret—one that could change their society . . . or bring it to its knees. And again, she's faced with a choice: cling to what she's been raised to believe, or cast her lot with the only boy she's ever loved, even if she's lost him forever.

Inspired by Jane Austen's Persuasion, For Darkness Shows the Stars is a breathtaking romance about opening your mind to the future and your heart to the one person you know can break it.

This book was amazing! Another classic turned into something not quite modern, but futuristic. A true Dystopian. I was enraptured from the beginning wondering just how it would all end. My heart actually hurt at times. Such familiar discord & struggles, anger & bitterness. You just know that it's not going to end happily ever after, or is it....?

The Jewel Trilogy by Lauren Royal

AMETHYST
(Nominated by Romantic Times for Best First Historical Romance!)

London, 1666
Amethyst Goldsmith makes dazzling jewelry, but her future isn’t nearly as bright as the pieces she creates. Though custom dictates she wed her father’s apprentice, her heart rebels against the match. In mere days Amy will be condemned to a stifling, loveless marriage, and she sees no way out—until the devastating fire of 1666 sweeps through London, and tragedy lands her in the arms of a dashing nobleman who knows a diamond in the rough when he sees it…
Colin Chase, the Earl of Greystone, has his future all figured out. He’s restoring his crumbling castle and estate to its former glory, and the key to its completion is his rich bride-to-be. But the Great Fire lays waste to his plans, saddling him with trouble—in the form of a lowly shopkeeper’s daughter with whom he’s most inconveniently falling in love...

 EMERALD
(Finalist for the Booksellers' Best Award and RWA Award of Excellence!)

England & Scotland, 1667
Jason Chase, the Marquess of Cainewood, is out to bring a blackguard to justice when he crosses paths with a woeful Scottish lad. When the lad turns out to be a lovely Scottish lass, he realizes she must be the notorious bounty hunter Emerald MacCallum. Convinced they're after the same man and her very life may be in danger, Jason decides he must keep Emerald close…
In Caithren Leslie's view, there couldn't be enough distance between her and the handsome but overbearing Englishman. She's searching for her wayward brother, but Jason won't let a little thing like the truth interfere with his absurd conviction that she's living under an assumed identity. Mindful of the dangerous traveling conditions, Cait grudgingly accepts his protection. Until, that is, she begins to suspect that mistrust isn't the only emotion between them…and their mission for justice just might turn out to be a quest for love...

 AMBER
(A Booklist Top Ten Romance of the Year, with a Romantic Times K.I.S.S. Award-winning hero!)

England & Scotland, 1668
Kendra Chase's brothers are telling her it's high time she get married. But although they've presented her with many wealthy, titled suitors, no man has caught her fancy—until her coach is held up by a dashing, mysterious highwayman. When she and the dangerous man are caught in a compromising embrace and her overprotective brothers insist they wed, Kendra cannot believe it. Are they really desperate enough to match her with an outlaw?

Patrick "Trick" Caldwell is the Duke of Amberley—and also the notorious Black Highwayman, an identity he has assumed in order to right past wrongs and serve his king.  But his already complicated life becomes positively convoluted when he finds himself compelled to marry a red-headed temptress he's only just met. Caught in a web of half-truths and forced into a perilous mission, can Trick extricate himself and find love with the woman destined to steal his heart?

 A JEWEL TRILOGY NOVELLA

England, 1667
Sensible Clarice Bradford is content in her widowhood. She has a pretty one-room cottage and a lovely little daughter, and the last thing she wants is another husband. Until one fairytale evening when she’s invited to a wedding at a castle…
Scottish gentleman Sir Cameron Leslie is smitten with the shy, English beauty at first sight. He’s fiercely drawn to the very strength and independence that make her unwilling to throw caution to the wind and bestow her heart on a younger man. Though passion flares between them, it will take everything Cameron can muster to reawaken Clarice’s long-forgotten dreams of true love…
~~~~~
PLEASE NOTE: This Jewel Trilogy novella is about 1/4 the length of Lauren's full-length novels--longer than a short story, but shorter than a typical book. Forevermore stands alone as a complete story, but if you'd prefer to read it in order within the trilogy, chronologically it falls between Emerald and Amber.




Lauren Royal is just an AMAZING historical romance author! I absolutely adored the Jewel Trilogy. I enjoyed the fact that Lauren intertwined the characters in these book. Instead of just ending a story when the book is done. The characters have depth & you get drawn in & fall in love with each of them so when they appear in the next book it's like seeing an old friend again! 

Forbidden by Syrie James & Ryan M. James

She should not exist.

He should not love her.

Claire Brennan has been attending Emerson Academy for two years now (the longest she and her mom have remained anywhere) and she’s desperate to stay put for the rest of high school. So there’s no way she’s going to tell her mom about the psychic visions she’s been having or the creepy warnings that she’s in danger. Alec MacKenzie is fed up with his duties to watch and, when necessary, eliminate the descendants of his angelic forefathers. He chose Emerson as the ideal hiding place where he could be normal for once. He hadn’t factored Claire into his plans. . . . Their love is forbidden, going against everything Alec has been taught to believe. But when the reason behind Claire’s unusual powers is revealed and the threat to her life becomes clear, how far will Alec go to protect her?

Utterly & completely in love with this book. The story is beautifully & poignantly written. Lots of "Angel" stories are being written lately & this is one of the top ones in my book. I adored the intense love story, the heart-wrenching climax the friendships that were 110% loyal & supportive. If you aren't sure if your heart is beating this story will prove it beyond a shadow of a doubt!

The Girl in the Clockwork Collar by Kady Cross (Steampunk Chronicles Book 2)

Sixteen-year-old Finley Jayne and her "straynge band of mysfits" have journeyed from London to America to rescue their friend Jasper, hauled off by bounty hunters. But Jasper is in the clutches of a devious former friend demanding a trade—the dangerous device Jasper stole from him…for the life of the girl Jasper loves. One false move from Jasper and the strange clockwork collar around Mei's neck tightens. And tightens. From the rough streets of lower Manhattan to elegant Fifth Avenue, the motley crew of teens with supernatural abilities is on Jasper's elusive trail. And they're about to discover how far they'll go for friendship. More than ever, Finley Jayne will rely on powerful English duke Griffin King to balance her dark magic with her good side. Yet Griffin is at war with himself over his secret attraction to Finley…and will risk his life and reputation to save her. Sam, more machine than man, finds his moody heart tested by Irish lass Emily—whose own special abilities are no match for the darkness she discovers on the streets. Now, to help those she's come to care for so deeply, Finley Jayne must infiltrate a criminal gang. Only problem is, she might like the dark side a little too much….

Kady Cross has another winner with the second book in the Steampunk Chronicles! Another riveting story picking up just a couple days after we left off in the Girl in the Steel Corset. The friends travel to America to rescue Jasper. New adventures, new dangers, new feelings & emotions, you definitely won't want to put this one down! I know I didn't!

Of Poseidon by Anna Banks

Galen, a Syrena prince, searches land for a girl he's heard can communicate with fish. It’s while Emma is on vacation at the beach that she meets Galen. Although their connection is immediate and powerful, Galen's not fully convinced that Emma's the one he's been looking for. That is, until a deadly encounter with a shark proves  that Emma and her Gift may be the only thing that can save his kingdom. He needs her help—no matter what the risk.

Instant LOVE! If you were ever a fan of water in any way shape or form & you love a good "fish" story you'll definitely love this book! My heart immediately felt a kindred spirit in Emma. A little clumsy, a little awkward & really not knowing who she is. Her story is absolutely a roller coaster ride to the fullest & will keep you turning pages all the way to the shocking end!

Chime by Fanny Billingsley

Before Briony's stepmother died, she made sure Briony blamed herself for all the family's hardships. Now Briony has worn her guilt for so long it's become a second skin. She often escapes to the swamp, where she tells stories to the Old Ones, the spirits who haunt the marshes. But only witches can see the Old Ones, and in her village, witches are sentenced to death. Briony lives in fear her secret will be found out, even as she believes she deserves the worst kind of punishment.

Then Eldric comes along with his golden lion eyes and mane of tawny hair. He's as natural as the sun, and treats her as if she's extraordinary. And everything starts to change. As many secrets as Briony has been holding, there are secrets even she doesn't know.

Meh! I trudged 40 pages into this book, looking for the plot. Took me 2 days to get that far & I just couldn't anymore. I will try again at another time, but right now....YAWN!

Unraveling by Elizabeth Norris

Two days before the start of her junior year, seventeen-year-old Janelle Tenner is hit by a pickup truck and killed—as in blinding light, scenes of her life flashing before her, and then nothing. Except the next thing she knows, she's opening her eyes to find Ben Michaels, a loner from her high school whom Janelle has never talked to, leaning over her. And even though it isn't possible, she knows—with every fiber of her being, that Ben has somehow brought her back to life. But her revival, and Ben's possible role in it, is only the first of the puzzles that Janelle must solve. While snooping in her FBI agent father's files for clues about her accident, she uncovers a clock that seems to be counting down to something—but to what? And when someone close to Janelle is killed, she can no longer deny what's right in front of her: Everything that's happened—the accident, the murder, the countdown clock, Ben's sudden appearance in her life—points to the end of life as she knows it. And as the clock ticks down, she realizes that if she wants to put a stop to the end of the world, she's going to need to uncover Ben's secrets—and keep from falling in love with him in the process.

Gripping, from the very beginning. This book was AHHHHHMAZING!! I wasn't quite sure at first where it was going, or what to really think but all of a sudden I was sucked in & fell in love w/ EVERYTHING about the book. Elizabeth writes a riveting story that keeps you on the edge of your seat....just when you start to settle in something else happens to tip you back to that edge all over again. Love, pure, perfect & meant to be....or not?! The love in this story is so sweet between friends, between more than friends. I hope to see more from Elizabeth with these characters.

Graceling Realm Series by Kristin Cashore

Kristin Cashore’s best-selling, award-winning fantasy Graceling tells the story of the vulnerable yet strong Katsa, a smart, beautiful teenager who lives in a world where selected people are given a Grace, a special talent that can be anything from dancing to swimming. Katsa’s is killing. As the king’s niece, she is forced to use her extreme skills as his thug. Along the way, Katsa must learn to decipher the true nature of her Grace . . . and how to put it to good use. A thrilling, action-packed fantasy adventure (and steamy romance!) that will resonate deeply with adolescents trying to find their way in the world.

This book is beautifully written! The story, the very words!!! The story jumps right in and grabs you from the very first paragraph with the intrigue of whats happening. Katsa is amazing, a very strong character who is just beginning to learn that strength doesn't merely mean "muscle". If you love a good adventure with a strong female character, you'll find it in Graceling.

 

 

It is not a peaceful time in the Dells. In King City, the young King Nash is clinging to the throne, while rebel lords in the north and south build armies to unseat him. War is coming. And the mountains and forest are filled with spies and thieves. This is where Fire lives, a girl whose beauty is impossibly irresistible and who can control the minds of everyone around her. Exquisitely romantic, this companion to the highly praised Graceling has an entirely new cast of characters, save for one person who plays a pivotal role in both books. You don't need to have read Graceling to love Fire. But if you haven't, you'll be dying to read it next.

I absolutely fell in love with Fire! She is an AMAZING character! I liked Graceling, but I LOVE LOVE LOVED Fire! Again, very well written, easy to read & of course couldn't put it down! I really got attached to the characters & the story in general. At times I felt the gut wrenching pain of decisions or situations, holding my breathe in fear or anticipation of just what would happen next. This was one of those books that I couldn't wait to finish but was also sad to finish. 

Eight years after Graceling, Bitterblue is now queen of Monsea. But the influence of her father, a violent psychopath with mind-altering abilities, lives on. Her advisors, who have run things since Leck died, believe in a forward-thinking plan: Pardon all who committed terrible acts under Leck's reign, and forget anything bad ever happened. But when Bitterblue begins sneaking outside the castle—disguised and alone—to walk the streets of her own city, she starts realizing that the kingdom has been under the thirty-five-year spell of a madman, and the only way to move forward is to revisit the past. Two thieves, who only steal what has already been stolen, change her life forever. They hold a key to the truth of Leck's reign. And one of them, with an extreme skill called a Grace that he hasn't yet identified, holds a key to her heart.

 I loved this one! The characters coming back from the first 2 books was probably the best part for me! I love the story, the mystery & the romance. I was disappointed with the direction Bitterblues' romantic relationship took....otherwise true to Kristin's previous work it was amazing! I hope there is more to come from the Graceling Realm

The Faerie Ring Series by Kiki Hamilton

Debut novelist Kiki Hamilton takes readers from the gritty slums and glittering ballrooms of Victorian London to the beguiling but menacing Otherworld of the Fey in this spellbinding tale of romance, suspense, and danger. The year is 1871, and Tiki has been making a home for herself and her family of orphans in a deserted hideaway adjoining Charing Cross Station in central London. Their only means of survival is by picking pockets. One December night, Tiki steals a ring, and sets off a chain of events that could lead to all-out war with the Fey. For the ring belongs to Queen Victoria, and it binds the rulers of England and the realm of Faerie to peace. With the ring missing, a rebel group of faeries hopes to break the treaty with dark magic and blood—Tiki’s blood. Unbeknownst to Tiki, she is being watched—and protected—by Rieker, a fellow thief who suspects she is involved in the disappearance of the ring. Rieker has secrets of his own, and Tiki is not all that she appears to be. Her very existence haunts Prince Leopold, the Queen’s son, who is driven to know more about the mysterious mark that encircles her wrist. Prince, pauper, and thief—all must work together to secure the treaty…

So of course growing up I was always the 'Fairy Tale' kinda girl. Well, now that I'm supposedly grown-up, I adore a good 'Faerie Tale'. Kiki did NOT disappoint! The story was amazing, fast paced & full of intrigue. I related to Tiki trying to figure out who she could trust as well as her protective mothering nature. The entire storyline was phenomenal however, I think Kiki did a great job wrapping up the story yet leaving enough unfinished/unresolved so that you are desperate for more.....

Jellicoe Road by Melina Marchetta

In this lyrical, absorbing, award-winning novel, nothing is as it seems, and every clue leads to more questions. At age eleven, Taylor Markham was abandoned by her mother. At fourteen, she ran away from boarding school, only to be tracked down and brought back by a mysterious stranger. Now seventeen, Taylor's the reluctant leader of her school's underground community, whose annual territory war with the Townies and visiting Cadets has just begun. This year, though, the Cadets are led by Jonah Griggs, and Taylor can't avoid his intense gaze for long. To make matters worse, Hannah, the one adult Taylor trusts, has disappeared. But if Taylor can piece together the clues Hannah left behind, the truth she uncovers might not just settle her past, but also change her future.

So, goodreads had this under dystopian. NOT!!!!! Not sure how to classify it, but its not my usual read....it took me awhile to get into it, but once I did, it was beautiful.....tragic but beautiful! Seeing how Taylors' mysterious past unfolds before her eyes is not only heartwrenching but bittersweet. To see such deep friendship & love really just makes you wonder.....

Trylle Trilogy by Amanda Hocking

When Wendy Everly was six years old, her mother was convinced she was a monster and tried to kill her. Eleven years later, Wendy discovers her mother might have been right.  She’s not the person she’s always believed herself to be, and her whole life begins to unravel—all because of Finn Holmes.

Finn is a mysterious guy who always seems to be watching her.  Every encounter leaves her deeply shaken…though it has more to do with her fierce attraction to him than she’d ever admit.  But it isn’t long before he reveals the truth:  Wendy is a changeling who was switched at birth—and he’s come to take her home. Now Wendy’s about to journey to a magical world she never knew existed, one that’s both beautiful and frightening.  And where she must leave her old life behind to discover who she’s meant to become…

In order to review one of Amanda's books I feel you just need to say her name! Those who have read her books will instantly sigh & immediately know it'll be an ahhhhhmazing book! Foe those that have never read/heard of Amanda.....now is the best time to pick up 1 of her books. Amanda has an unbelievable gift she draws you into the story so deeply & emotionally that you'll actually feel what the characters are feeling, my heart has hurt at times, I've been spitting mad ticked off, I've held my breath in fear & awe. If I had to pick just 1 YA Paranormal author to rave on & on about its Amanda!!! The world of Trylle is so crazy yet she makes it so real! Wendy is an amazing character w/ a messed up padt & a shocking future she NEVER expected the journey is a roller coaster & so worth the price of admission.

When Wendy Everly first discovers the truth about herself—that she’s a changeling switched at birth—she knows her life will never be the same. Now she’s about to learn that there’s more to the story… She shares a closer connection to her Vittra rivals than she ever imagined—and they’ll stop at nothing to lure her to their side. With the threat of war looming, her only hope of saving the Trylle is to master her magical powers—and marry an equally powerful royal. But that means walking away from Finn, her handsome bodyguard who’s strictly off limits…and Loki, a Vittra prince with whom she shares a growing attraction. Torn between her heart and her people, between love and duty, Wendy must decide her fate. If she makes the wrong choice, she could lose everything, and everybody, she’s ever wanted…in both worlds.

If you thought the 1st book in the Trylle series was good, well it just gets better. Another roller coaster ride that will leave you naseaus but you dont know if its in a good or bad way. 1 day of barely moving and most of 1 night, i couldnt put it down! Wendy's life just keeps getting more shocking!

 

Wendy Everly is facing an impossible choice. The only way to save the Trylle from their deadliest enemy is by sacrificing herself.  If she doesn’t surrender to the Vittra, her people will be thrust into a brutal war against an unbeatable foe.  But how can Wendy leave all her friends behind…even if it’s the only way to save them? The stakes have never been higher, because her kingdom isn’t the only thing she stands to lose. After falling for both Finn and Loki, she’s about to make the ultimate choice…who to love forever. One guy has finally proven to be the love of her life—and now all their lives might be coming to an end. Everything has been leading to this moment.  The future of her entire world rests in her hands—if she’s ready to fight for it.

I think it's physically impossible for Amanda to write a bad story. Everything finally comes to a head for Wendy in this the finale book in the Trylle Trilogy. It was again stuck to my hands, I couldn't put the book down until it was over. I loved the conflict, the life altering decisions that had to be made in this final chapter. The end is amazing just like each of these books has been. My deepest sadness is that the story is over. 

I purchased these with the re-release & there was bonus stories in each book, Switched features "The Vittra Attacks" Torn features "One Day, Three Ways" and Ascend features "Ever After"

Each of these mini "novellas" or additional chapters just added to the whole Trylle experience! If you haven't got the re-releases with these additions, it's worth it!

The Last Princess by Galaxy Craze

Happily ever after is a thing of the past. A series of natural disasters has decimated the earth. Cut off from the rest of the world, England is a dark place. The sun rarely shines, food is scarce, and groups of criminals roam the woods, searching for prey. The people are growing restless.

When a ruthless revolutionary sets out to overthrow the crown, he makes the royal family his first target. Blood is shed in Buckingham Palace, and only sixteen-year old Princess Eliza manages to escape. Determined to kill the man who destroyed her family, Eliza joins the enemy forces in disguise. She has nothing left to live for but revenge, until she meets someone who helps her remember how to hope-and love-once more.

Now she must risk everything to ensure that she does not become . . . The Last Princess...

I really enjoyed this book! Galaxy pulls you right into the story & heartbreak within just the first few pages. The female characters are strong not some weak limp wristed aristocracy & that made it even better! Im a Princess Leia kinda fan & thats the heart of this book I believe is the strong women. Of course there's romance & you will probably fall in love with the guy before the Princess does (I know I did)

A Temptation of Angels by Michelle Zink

Even angels make mistakes in this page-turning epic romance

When her parents are murdered before her eyes, sixteen-year-old Helen Cartwright finds herself launched into an underground London where a mysterious organization called the Dictata controls the balance of good and evil. Helen learns that she is one of three remaining angelic descendants charged with protecting the world's past, present, and future. Unbeknownst to her, she has been trained her whole life to accept this responsibility. Now, as she finds herself torn between the angelic brothers protecting her and the devastatingly handsome childhood friend who wants to destroy her, she must prepare to be brave, to be hunted, and above all to be strong, because temptation will be hard to resist, even for an angel.

This book caught me immediately & reeled me in instantly! It starts out quickly & reads quickly.  From almost page one the action starts & doesn't stop until the end! The writing was clear & concise even though there was quite a bit going on. The romance was JUST RIGHT  not over the top, but it was there & you will fall in love with the characters as well. I'll definitely be looking for more from this author!

Masque of the Red Death Series by Bethany Griffin

Everything is in ruins.

A devastating plague has decimated the population, and those who are left live in fear of catching it as the city crumbles around them. So what does Araby Worth have to live for? Nights in the Debauchery Club, beautiful dresses, glittery makeup . . . and tantalizing ways to forget it all. But in the depths of the club—in the depths of her own despair—Araby will find more than oblivion. She will find Will, the terribly handsome proprietor of the club, and Elliott, the wickedly smart aristocrat. Neither is what he seems. Both have secrets. Everyone does. And Araby may find not just something to live for, but something to fight for—no matter what it costs her.

This book was brilliantly written. I fell in love with Araby almost immediately. I've enjoyed reading a freshly written perspective of Poes story. I think I was really into this book because it hit all my favorite genres; of course it's historical, with some intense romance, steampunk & obviously dystopian is the backbone of the entire storyline. WINNER!!!!

Accidentally Yours Series by Mimi Jean Pamfiloff

Twenty-two-year-old Emma Keane has a secret friend. He’s powerful, mysterious, and devastatingly handsome. In her dreams, anyway. In real life, he’s an enigma. Maybe just a teensy jealous. Definitely overbearing. He’s also a voice only she can hear.

So who or what is he? He won’t say. But if she wants to be free, to be normal, Emma will have to trek to the jungles once ruled by the Mayans and find the forgotten ruin holding the answers. However, the ruthless deity she’s about to unknowingly unleash on the modern world might not be so easily extracted from her life. Bottom line, he’s got enemies, and now, so does she. 

FUN!!! FAST PACED & FABULOUS! I actually bought the second book first and after reading the first couple pages decided to read em in order! WORTH IT!  Mimi is an unbelievable story teller. I was engrossed from cover to cover. A new take on the paranormal world that just had me coming back for more!

“If you love her, set her free. If she comes back, she’s yours. If she doesn’t…Christ! Stubborn woman! Hunt her down, and bring her the hell back; she’s still yours according to vampire law.” - Niccolo DiConti, General of the Vampire Queen’s Army.

THE DETERMINED VAMPIRE: Niccolo DiConti has faithfully served as leader of Her Majesty’s army for over a millennium, but he’d rather sunbathe in the Sahara than spend another grueling day under his demented queen’s command. However, no one has ever left her side and lived to tell. So when a powerful goddess prophesies he will meet his salvation—a human woman he must turn into a vampire with her consent—he eagerly rises to the challenge. After all, how hard could it be to seduce a human female into taking the immortal plunge? Harder than he thinks. Because his mate won’t be born for another three centuries, and when he wakes up in the goddess’ tomb, not only is his life a mess, but his destined female isn’t about to settle for a coldhearted vampire. Can he win her over before it’s too late? Not if his enemies have anything to do with it.

AN UNWILLING BRIDE: On the night Helena Strauss meets the fierce, devastatingly handsome vampire who saves her life in the jungles of Mexico, she knows her world will be forever changed. Because an attraction this mind blowing only comes along once in a lifetime—or existence. And when he claims she is his one true mate, destined to be his for all eternity, it’s a fairytale come true. So what if her knight in shining armor is a vampire? Nobody’s perfect. But discovering the powerful, overbearing immortal doesn’t “do love?” Deal breaker. Helena will flee and set out to accomplish the impossible…sever the otherworldly bond between them. And it turns out, Helena is just the leverage Niccolo’s enemies need to break the mighty warrior and wipe out his people.  


It's another hit, what can I say?! I think I have found some of the best new books/authors (new to me) through my nook, either Free or $0.99 This is one of those! Yeah it's ANOTHER Vampire story but yet again a different perspective. Mimi is imaginative & original in her storytelling & this is another example of a book I just couldn't put down! Lots of action, intrigue & of course romance! Take a chance, check it out!

Dead Witch Walking by Kim Harrison

All the creatures of the night gather in "the Hollows" of Cincinnati, to hide, to prowl, to party...and to feed. Vampires rule the darkness in a predator-eat-predator world rife with dangers beyond imagining - and it's Rachel Morgan's job to keep that world civilized. A bounty hunter and witch with serious sex appeal and an attitude, she'll bring 'em back alive, dead...or undead.

Not impressed. It wasn't horrible but it wasn't awesome. I did finish it just b/c I HAD to know how it ended. So I guess that is something. But as of right now I definitely won't be reading the others in this series.

A streak of stinkers...

So, I had a good solid run of AWESOME books but now it seems that I am in a dry spell of "stinkers only." If you are one of the authors that I have reviewed & not liked, please take heart, I am only one person & my opinion matters little. I do not mean to belittle your hard work in any way, it just may not be my style.


For those that read my blog regularly, I try to be as honest as I can possibly be w/o being mean. Just b/c I may not like a book, doesn't mean that you won't. If I review a book that you have been looking forward to reading, take a plunge, YOU may see something in the story that I completely missed.

Above by Leah Bobet

Matthew has loved Ariel from the moment he found her in the tunnels, her bee's wings falling away. They live in Safe, an underground refuge for those fleeing the city Above--like Whisper, who speaks to ghosts, and Jack Flash, who can shoot lightning from his fingers. But one terrifying night, an old enemy invades Safe with an army of shadows, and only Matthew, Ariel, and a few friends escape Above. As Matthew unravels the mystery of Safe's history and the shadows' attack, he realizes he must find a way to remake his home--not just for himself, but for Ariel, who needs him more than ever before.

Straight-up honesty? I'm not even done reading this one?! I was SOOOO excited about it & waited on the edge of my seat for the release date & I feel like I'm pulling teeth trying to get through it! The writing style is very choppy, the storyline is so mish-mashed that I have no idea what they are talking about half the time. It seems like it should be a 2nd or 3rd book in a series & it's the author's first book & a stand alone. I don't know....maybe it's me, but totally NOT what I expected.

Royal House of Shadows Series by Gena Showalter

Once upon a time…the Blood Sorcerer vanquished the kingdom of Elden. To save their children, the queen scattered them to safety and the king filled them with vengeance. Only a magical timepiece connects the four royal heirs…and time is running out….

Nicolai the Vampire was renowned for his virility, but in a twist of fate "The Dark Seducer" had become a sex slave in the kingdom of Delfina—stripped of his precious timepiece and his memory. All that remained was a primal need for freedom, revenge—and the only woman who could help him. In her dreams, a wanton vampire called to Jane Parker, drawing her to his dark sexuality and his magical realm. But for a human, all was not a fairy tale in Delfina. Jane was the key to Nicolai's memory…but exploiting her meant dooming the only mortal he craved.

So, the this is the first book in Gena's newest series.....I ♥ it! Gena writes very simply but deeply. I never fail to fall in love with the "main man"  in her stories! Her books are always a quick read, which is both exciting & sad. You know how you want to know so bad how a story is going to end but then you get to the end & are like ohhhh man.....IT'S OVER!!

The Goddess Test Series by Aimee Carter

It's always been just Kate and her mom—and her mother is dying. Her last wish? To move back to her childhood home. So Kate's going to start at a new school with no friends, no other family and the fear her mother won't live past the fall.

Then she meets Henry. Dark. Tortured. And mesmerizing. He claims to be Hades, god of the Underworld—and if she accepts his bargain, he'll keep her mother alive while Kate tries to pass seven tests. Kate is sure he's crazy—until she sees him bring a girl back from the dead. Now saving her mother seems crazily possible. If she succeeds, she'll become Henry's future bride, and a goddess.

This book was quite easy to get into. Although a journey outside of my normal genres, I was completely fascinated!  Aimee has a great writing style & a wonderful world that she's created. I instantly fell in love w/ the characters and the premise for the story brought Mythology into modern times in a clean concise way. 

 A vacation in Greece sounds like the perfect way for Kate Winters to spend her first sabbatical away from the Underworld...until she gets caught up in an immortal feud going back millennia. Castor and Pollux have been on the run from Zeus and Hades's wrath for centuries, hiding from the gods who hunt them. The last person they trust is Kate, the new Queen of the Underworld. Nevertheless, she is determined to help their cause. But when it comes to dealing with immortals, Kate still has a lot to learn....

Just a short Novella, but it was kinda cool to read about Kate's first summer away. So easy to jump into a novella like this when you are already in  love w/ the characters & the story! A nice bonus & a DEFINITE read for any Goddess Test fan!

Kate Winters has won immortality. But if she wants a life with Henry in the Underworld, she'll have to fight for it. Becoming immortal wasn't supposed to be the easy part. Though Kate is about to be crowned Queen of the Underworld, she's as isolated as ever. And despite her growing love for Henry, ruler of the Underworld, he's becoming ever more distant and secretive. Then, in the midst of Kate's coronation, Henry is abducted by the only being powerful enough to kill him: the King of the Titans. As the other gods prepare for a war that could end them all, it is up to Kate to save Henry from the depths of Tartarus. But in order to navigate the endless caverns of the Underworld, Kate must enlist the help of the one person who is the greatest threat to her future. Henry's first wife, Persephone.

LOVED IT! Plenty of action, drama, conspiracy & soooo much more! Another great chapter in the Goddess Test series, although, the way Aimee decided to end this one almost killed me....STILL may kill me.....I just finished it & I'm shocked & horrified!!!!!! 

 COMING JULY 31, 2012...