Letterbox Love (#34) The Bumper Christmas Edition

As always, Letterbox Love is a weekly feature that I'm hosting on the blog and basically, the idea came out of a discussion with other UK book bloggers about the need to do a weekly meme with more of a British feel to it. Therefore, Letterbox Love was born and the logo was lovingly designed by Dark Readers. Letterbox Love is a way for us to share the books that come through our letterbox, galleys and e books (through our electronic letterbox) and any other bookish goodies that we want to tell you about. Letterbox Love is intended to showcase upcoming books and build up some excitement for them as well as let you know what is available out there. It is not about competing with other bloggers or boasting of any kind (c'mon, we're British and we don't do drama!)

Christmas has been a busy time for me and so I missed out Letterbox Love last week.  Apologies for that but I did have to make a trip to the emergency dentist (yuck) and then travel to Cornwall via Cardiff so I didn't really have time to write the post.  Anyway, that makes this edition of Letterbox Love a BUMPER edition and includes all my Christmas books. 

Review Books

Eternally Yours by Cate Tiernan

This is the third and final book in the Immortal Beloved series which I'm ashamed to say, I have yet to start but I know my sister loves these books.  

Vortex by Julie Cross

I Loved Tempest (the first book in this series) and so I'm really looking forward to reading Vortex and finding out what happens next to Jackson.  You know I love time travel books ;) 

The Tragedy Paper by Elizabeth LaBan

This is a debut novel and a coming of age story about first love and heartbreak.  What interests me the most is that the protagonist is an albino.

The Prey by Andrew Fukuda

 Oh my goodness, I loved The Hunt (the first book in this series) and what about that ending?!  That's why I'm pleased to have The Prey so I can find out what happens next!  The Hunt was full of tension and I expect The Prey to be more of the same although I've heard a friend say that it's even better than The Hunt.  Can't wait to dive in.

The Host by Stephenie Meyer (Movie Edition)

I remember starting to read The Host a long time ago and never finishing the book.  I'm not entirely sure why, whether I lost interest or forgot about it but I need to give it another go before the movie comes out. 

The Reckoning by Alma Katsu

I already have a beautiful US hardback of this book which is the sequel to The Taker (an EPIC book).  I expect I will probably give this away at some point because of that.

  

Gates of Paradise by Melissa De La Cruz

I've no idea what number book this is in this particular series but it's one I've never read and probably have no intention in reading.  Again, this will be a giveaway at some point. 

Rift by Andrea Cremer

I actually already have a copy of this so again, another giveaway at some point.

Thank you publishers!!!

Books Bought

The Darkest Minds by Alexandra Bracken

Love the cover, love the title, love the concept.  I've heard great things about this book and I'm looking forward to reading it. 

The Vincent Brothers by Abbi Glines

I love this series and really wanted a hardback copy of the books for my collection.  Need I say more?!

Opal by Jennifer L. Armentrout

I'm a huge fan of Jennifer's and I'd read anything she wrote.  Although I've already read it, I bought this for my collection.

Gifts

Immortal City by Scott Speer

Immortal City is one of those books that I've ummed and ahhed about buying and reading but now that it's been gifted to me by my lovely friend Jordan, I think the universe is trying to tell me to read it!

Drink, Slay, Love by Sarah Beth Durst

This book claims to be an original YA vampire story and a satirical one at that.  I'm looking forward to finding out.  Thanks Jordan!  I've just realised that I've got all of Sarah's books on my shelves and I haven't read a single one.  This has to change in 2013.

Keeper of the Lost Cities by Shannon Messenger

This is a middle grade book and whilst I don't normally read middle grade, I've heard such great things about this book AND it's written by debut novelist Shannon Messenger - a writer I've followed on Twitter and her blog for a long time now (before she was even published).  I'm looking forward to seeing what all the fuss is about ;)  Thank you to my Secret Santa for this book which I waited until Christmas day to open.  I plan on writing a separate post about this.

 

Sapphire Blue by Kersten Gier

This is the second book in the Ruby Red trilogy and whilst I haven't read the first book yet (I know, I know) all I can say is time travel FTW! Also, the covers are beautiful.  Thank you to my Secret Santa for this book :)

Won 

Who I kissed by Janet Gurtler (ARC)

This is a YA contemporary story about love, life and loss.  It does sound interesting and perhaps a bit of an issue book but I'm interested to give it a try. 

Eve & Adam by Michael Grant and Katherine Applegate (ARC)

I've been wanting to read this for ages and I love the US cover so I'm happy to have won this.  This is a YA story about genetics and one that sounds VERY interesting.

Skinny by Donna Cooner (ARC)

This is a debut novel and one that really interests me as the protagonist is a teenage girl who weighs over three hundred pounds and yet the title is Skinny.  Definitely going to read this one.

EBooks

Wake by Amanda Hocking
I actually already have this in paperback but it was only 99p and I think you can figure out by now that I love eBooks.

Fifty Sheds of Grey by C.T. Grey
I follow this account on Twitter and it never fails to make me laugh.  When I saw that the eBook was only 20p, I snapped it up. 

Fallen Crest High by Tijan
I've been umming and ahhing about this book for a while now but after seeing all the five star reviews, I finally caved and bought it.  The description reminds me a little of Cruel Intentions.

Mythology by Helen Boswell
This is a YA paranormal and a recommendation from FaceBook (I'm sure it was Brigid Kemmerer).  Anyway, I thought I would give it a go. 

Light of the Moon by David James
This was a recommendation from someone on FaceBook (it might have been Brigid Kemmerer).  Described as a book about true love and dark curses, COUNT ME IN.  Also, take a look at all the five star reviews on Amazon.

Touch of Power by Maria V. Snyder
I've been meaning to read this for ages now and whilst I already have this in paperback, I couldn't resist the eBook when I saw it in the kindle sale.  I have a feeling that sale will be the death of me LOL.  

Slide by Jill Hathaway
Slide is another book that I've been meaning to read for a while and whilst I have the paperback, I saw the eBook on sale and bought it. 

The Ivy Lessons by J Lerman, S Quinn
Teacher + student = a forbidden romance. I suspect this might have a bit of naughtiness to it.

A Dark Grave (Elysium Chronicles 0.5) by J. A. Souders 
This is a short prequel to Renegade (a book I already have) and I just know I'm going to need this once I've read Renegade ;)

Bad Rep by A. Meredith Walters
I like the sound of this one - a girl whose reputation has gone downhill overnight and a hot bad boy who is probably more than willing to help her keep it that way lol.

A Song for Julia by Charles Sheehan-Miles
I think this is book two in the Thompson Sisters series and features characters from A Reason To Breathe (which I also have but have not read yet).  Another book with fantastic reviews and I can't resist a love story. 

Hopeless by Colleen Hoover
Great blurbs, great reviews and a personal recommendation from a friend, how could I not buy this?!

Catching Jordan by Miranda Kenneally
This is a YA contemporary and every now and then, I hear someone mention how much they loved it.  It was on offer when I bought it over Christmas (HOORAH) as it's not reverted back to full price. 

Crossing by Andrew Fukuda
This was Andrew Fukuda's first book, before The Hunt came along.  I really enjoyed The Hunt and so I'm curious about this one.  It was in the kindle sale and so I bought it. 

The Millenium Trilogy by Stieg Larsson
This was Amazon's Deal of the Day a little while ago and it was an extraordinarily good deal for all three books in the series. 

Rememberance/Vengeance/Timeless by Michelle Madow
I've been wanting to read this series for a long time and I think it was the announcement that it has been picked up by a publisher that has finally pushed me into getting them.  

The Snow Child by Eowyn Ivey
This is a book I keep hearing about and everyone says it's an amazing read.  When I saw it in the kindle sale, I jumped on it. 

Dangerous Voices by Rae Carson
This is an original short story from the author of The Girl of Fire and Thorns and whilst I paid 77p for it, it is currently free on Amazon. 

The Kissing Booth by Beth Reekles
This is a YA contemporary story about a bad boy and a girl who has never been kissed.  So what, I hear you say?  It was written by a seventeen year old girl and the next Wattpad sensation (after Abigail Gibbs).  I heard that it had been picked up by a major publisher and I'm quite clearly a glutton for punishment.  I'm curious is all if a seventeen year old can write believable characters and a good book.  Stay tuned. 

Grounding Quinn by Steph Campbell
I think this is a crossover novel and one that I know for sure has recently been picked up by a major publisher.  

The Unidentified Redhead by Alice Clayton
I LOVED Wallbanger like woah and when I finished reading, I immediately bought all of Alice Clayton's books and this was one of them.  I'm looking forward to some sexy fun which is what her books are all about.

The Redhead Revealed by Alice Clayton
This is the sequel to the book above.

The Bronze Horseman by Paullina Simons
Someone recommended this book to me as they thought I would like it and when I saw that it was only 99p, I decided to get it.

Fated by S.H. Kolee
I really enjoyed Love Left Behind (by the same author) and on the strength of that, I bought this one.  It's had some great reviews and I wouldn't be surprised if this was the next author to get snapped up by a major publisher.  
Fallen Too Far by Abbi Glines
It's Abbi Glines, need I say more?!

Witch's Brew by Heidi R. Kling (Free)
For an indie book, I think Witch's Brew has one of the best covers.  I've been interested in reading this for a while but I couldn't access it on Coliloquy.  When I saw it was free on Amazon...CLICK.

Relatively Famous by Jessica Park (Free)
I'll be honest and say I'm not entirely sure I would have picked this one up if it hadn't been free but it's a Young Adult novel and I'll give it a go.

Forever Mine by Elizabeth Reyes (Free)
One of my friends said that this was one of her favourite books and it's certainly had some great reviews.  It was free so of course I was going to get it!

The Billionaire Vampire by Lacey Chambers (Free)
This is a paranormal short story and not one that I would ever buy with a title like that.  That being said, it was free.

Glitches by Marissa Meyer (Free)
This is a short prequel to Cinder - another book I have been meaning to read but haven't managed it yet.


I hope you all had a fantastic Christmas and got lots and lots of books!!!  In case you're wondering what I'm reading at the moment, I've picked up Warm Bodies by Isaac Marion as I am DESPERATE to see the movie and it's not out yet.  I'm the biggest NON zombie fan ever but this story is winning me over with it's originality.  Are you all keeping an eye on the 12 days of kindle sale? Lots of bargains to be had there!  As always, please leave your links below :)

Merry Christmas!!!

I hope you all have a wonderful Christmas and get lots of books from Santa of course!  

I can't wait to see your Letterbox Love posts ;)

Crushed Review

For seventeen-year-old serial womanizer Fletch Colson, life is a game and if he plays by the rules, he’ll win it all: his dream college, his parents’ money, and a hot (if a little vapid) girl on his arm. Really, it couldn’t be easier. All he has to do is get good grades, live a privileged boarding school life, and try not to mess up too much.

However, when he accepts the seemingly impossible bet to change his ways and be “just friends” with smart, beautiful, tempting Ellie Jacobs – a girl who seems hell bent on confusing him - Fletch’s whole world is turned upside down.

Suddenly, what seemed simple and clear, no longer feels right and Fletch must decide if winning it all is worth losing a piece of himself.
I am a huge fan of Dawn’s writing and by the very first paragraph which is definitely OUT THERE, you know that Crushed is going to be a VERY different book from her previous books, Larkstorm and Nightingale.  The cover is simple yet effective and I like the fact that she’s gone down the contemporary route with this novel.  What I LOVE most though is that the story is told by Fletch, a male protagonist. Dawn NAILED his voice which is something she does so well and like always, the dialogue is spot on. 

Crushed tells the story of Fletch, a teenager at a boarding school who is going through the motions, until his real life can begin.  It’s a journey of friendship, lust, love and ultimately self discovery.  Fletch is not a bad boy per se but is a player.  He sleeps around, he drinks and dabbles in occasional drug use but he’s also smart and doesn’t let his extracurricular activities interfere with getting good grades.  He’s playing the game while having a little fun on the side and after all, it’s expected at least according to his father.  As it turns out, things are a little complicated with his childhood friend Calista who keeps mind fucking Fletch (and not in a good way) and basically no one thinks he can be “just friends” with any girl.  Fletch is determined to prove everyone wrong but is he even capable of this?  And at what cost?

I normally groan when I see that a story is set at a boarding school but it’s usually a paranormal story and the character is the stereotypical new kid.  Not so in this case.  I have to be honest and say that sometimes I have a rocky relationship with contemp stories but I did enjoy this one.  It’s not just about Fletch and the girls at school, it’s also about his family and his relationships with others, it’s about Fletch growing up and maybe even growing a pair of balls.

Whilst I love Fletch, I have to give a little shout out to Brady, Fletch’s best friend who might be a manwhore but he does have a six pack (and I’m not talking about beer) and a cheeky personality.  I loved the bromance between him and Fletch and his graduation speech? PRICELESS.  I guess I have a little soft spot for him.

Crushed is a standalone contemporary that is both edgy and real.  I really enjoyed sharing Fletch’s journey and by the end, I felt like I knew him inside and out.  I would definitely recommend this to contemporary fans.  

Crushed was published on 11th December, 2012.  To find out more about Dawn Rae Miller and her books, please click here to visit her website.

Wrong Bed, Right Guy Review

Seducing Mr. Wrong has never felt so right...

Prim and proper art gallery coordinator Elle Walser is no good at seducing men. Heck, she’s been throwing hints at her boss for months, but he’s completely clueless. Desperate to escape her mother’s matchmaking efforts, she comes up with a plan—buy some lingerie and climb into her boss’s bed. The plan goes brilliantly…until she accidentally seduces a sexy stranger instead.

Bad boy nightclub mogul Gabe Schultz just had the best almost-sex of his life. Too bad the smoking hot blonde thought he was his brother and bolted before he could finish what they started. Though her holier-than-thou attitude puts a serious damper on his mood, Gabe’s never been one to give up on something he wants. And he wants Elle. But does a man who lives on the dark side really have a chance with a proper lady?
It was the title that drew me to the book and the synopsis confirmed what I already knew.  I HAD to read this.  Obviously Wrong Bed, Right Guy is an adult book and as such contains mature content and sexual scenes of an explicit nature, just warning you now.

Elle has had a crush on her boss Nathan for over a year and one night, she decides enough is enough and plans to climb into his bed and seduce him.  I mean, if he doesn’t get the hint THEN, well then there’s no hope for them!  It isn’t until after he brings her to the point of orgasm that she realises it’s not Nathan.  Hilarity ensues.  The stranger in question just so happens to be Nathan’s heavily tattooed brother Gabe who is all kinds of wrong on the surface but oh so right for Elle if she’d only give him a chance.  Ladies, I can hear you swooning already.  I don’t blame you and when you read the book, you will be swooning for real.

I read this book in one sitting and I thoroughly enjoyed it.  I always like watching the guy chase the girl and Wrong Bed, Right Guy is no exception.  I liked the characters and I understand that there are to be two more books in this series, each concentrating on a different character so I look forward to that!   If I had to have one complaint though, it would be Gabe’s incessant use of the word “babe” which really annoyed me at times and cheapened his integrity.  Who am I kidding, I still fancy him though.

Wrong Bed, Right Guy was a fabulously entertaining and romantic read from Katee Robert and I will definitely be continuing with this series.

Wrong Bed, Right Guy was published on 20th July, 2012.  To find out more about Katee Robert and her books, please click here to visit her website.

The Love Hurts Blog Tour: Easy & Reason to Breathe

With the rise in popularity and availability of New Adult books, and may I just say a big YAY to that, Penguin UK are planning to publish two previously self published New Adult books in 2013 - Easy by Tammara Webber and Reason to Breathe by Rebecca Donovan.  I am delighted to welcome both ladies to the blog today as part of the Love Hurts Blog Tour in order to share their playlists for the books.  Just in case you haven't heard about them, here's some information:

Easy

A girl who believes trust can be misplaced, promises are made to be broken, and loyalty is an illusion. A boy who believes truth is relative, lies can mask unbearable pain, and guilt is eternal. Will what they find in each other validate their conclusions, or disprove them all?

When Jacqueline follows her longtime boyfriend to the college of his choice, the last thing she expects is a breakup two months into sophomore year. After two weeks in shock, she wakes up to her new reality: she's single, attending a state university instead of a music conservatory, ignored by her former circle of friends, and failing a class for the first time in her life.

Leaving a party alone, Jacqueline is assaulted by her ex's frat brother. Rescued by a stranger who seems to be in the right place at the right time, she wants nothing more than to forget the attack and that night--but her savior, Lucas, sits on the back row of her econ class, sketching in a notebook and staring at her. Her friends nominate him to be the perfect rebound.

When her attacker turns stalker, Jacqueline has a choice: crumple in defeat or learn to fight back. Lucas remains protective, but he's hiding secrets of his own. Suddenly appearances are everything, and knowing who to trust is anything but easy.

I've already read this one and loved it.  If you're interested, you can find my review here.  Easy will be published on 3rd January, 2013 in paperback.  To find out more about Tammara and her books, please click here to visit her website.







EASY Playlist – by chapter

1 Skyscraper – Demi Lovato
2 Part of Me – Katy Perry
3 Animal – Neon Trees
4 Tighten Up – Black Keys
5 Hurricane – 30 Seconds to Mars
6 Let Me – Pat Green
7 Ghost – Cavo
8 Kiss Me Slowly – Parachute
9 Breath – Breaking Benjamin
10 All the Same – Sick Puppies
11 Breathe – Ryan Star
12 Chasing Cars – Snow Patrol
13 Wide Awake – Katy Perry
14 I’d Rather Be With You – Joshua Radin
15 The Feel Good Drag – Anberlin
16 The Mess I Made – Parachute
17 Time After Time – Quietdrive
18 Avalanche – David Cook
19 The Cave – Mumford and Sons
20 What Doesn’t Kill You – Kelly Clarkson
21 Say – John Mayer
22 Sweet and Low – Augustana
23 Love Song – 311
24 Hardliners – Holcombe Waller
25 The Kill – 30 Seconds to Mars
26 From Where You Are – Lifehouse
27 Storm - Lifehouse
Epilogue Wanted – Hunter Hayes

Reason to Breathe

"No one tried to get involved with me, and I kept to myself. This was the place where everything was supposed to be safe and easy. How could Evan Mathews unravel my constant universe in just one day?"

He knows there’s something more to the girl sitting in the back of the class the moment he sees her. She’s beautiful, intelligent, and athletic – but she slips quietly through the crowded halls, trying not to exist. Determined to get to know the elusive girl, Evan soon discovers…

Emma Thomas is hiding a terrible secret.

Reason to Breathe is an electrifying page turner from start to finish, a unique tale of life-changing love, unspeakable cruelty, and one girl’s fragile grasp of hope.

 I haven't had the chance to read this book yet but I've heard nothing but good things about it.  Reason to Breathe is published on 17th January, 2013.  To find out more about Rebecca and her books, please click here to visit her website.



REASON TO BREATHE Playlist

Believe - The Bravery
The Pretender - Foo Fighters
Got You (Where I Want You) - The Flys
Everything I'm Looking For - The Dirty Heads
Love Song - The Cure
Constellations - Jack Johnson
Tick Tick Boom - The Hives
Better - Regina Spektor
For a Pessimist, I'm Pretty Optimistic - Paramore
Only - Nine Inch Nails
The Good Left Undone - Rise Against
Jealousy ~ Liz Phair
Old Friend - Rancid
Fade Into You - Mazzy Star
Lullaby - Dixie Chicks
Live Before You Die - Social Distortion
You Don't Know Me ~ Tracy Bonham
Save Your Best - Steve Reynolds
Help, I'm Alive - Metric


I always like to find out what music inspired the writer or what music fits with particular scenes and so I'm glad Tammara and Rebecca shared this with us today.  Do check out the rest of the Love Hurts Blog Tour where you can read extracts and win prizes.

 

Waiting on Wednesday

"Waiting On Wednesday" is a weekly event, originally started by Jill at Breaking the Spine , that highlights upcoming book releases everyone is waiting on...hence the title. This week's pick is Reboot by Amy Tintera. Here's the synopsis:

Five years ago, Wren Connolly was shot three times in the chest. After 178 minutes she came back as a Reboot: stronger, faster, able to heal, and less emotional. The longer Reboots are dead, the less human they are when they return. Wren 178 is the deadliest Reboot in the Republic of Texas. Now seventeen years old, she serves as a soldier for HARC (Human Advancement and Repopulation Corporation).

Wren’s favorite part of the job is training new Reboots, but her latest newbie is the worst she’s ever seen. As a 22, Callum Reyes is practically human. His reflexes are too slow, he’s always asking questions, and his ever-present smile is freaking her out. Yet there’s something about him she can’t ignore. When Callum refuses to follow an order, Wren is given one last chance to get him in line—or she’ll have to eliminate him. Wren has never disobeyed before and knows if she does, she’ll be eliminated, too. But she has also never felt as alive as she does around Callum.

The perfect soldier is done taking orders.

Can I just say WOW,  THIS BOOK SOUNDS AWESOME and look at the cover - it looks like a movie poster!  I'm so excited to read this book that this is one of my top ten on the wishlist and one that I'm going to be lusting after until release date.  I'm so excited about it that I'm pre-ordering it immediately and I would do just about anything to read it NOW. 

Reboot is published on 7th May, 2013 with no information about a UK release.   

Forever My Girl Review

I was never supposed to be a rock star. I had my life all planned out for me. Play football in college. Go to the NFL. Marry my high school sweetheart and live happily ever after.

I broke both our hearts that day when I told her I was leaving. I was young. I made the right decision for me, but the wrong decision for us. I’ve poured my soul into my music, but I’ve never forgotten her. Her smell, her smile.

And now I’m going back.

After ten years.

I hope I can explain that after all this time.

I still want her to be my forever girl.

Okay, let’s be honest.  The cover and the synopsis drew me in to thinking that this would be the perfect book for me.  I mean, a hot rock star coupled with first love and a whole lotta angst? SIGN ME UP BABY!  This is an adult contemporary novel although it feels like it could be a New Adult book with characters in their late twenties.  You can tell by the synopsis, that this is going to be an emotional ride but I never really expected to feel the range of emotions that I did whilst reading and even now after reading, I’m still thinking about the book.

Liam and Josie were high school sweethearts headed for the perfect life together until Liam broke both their hearts by leaving without really explaining himself.  He might have shut himself off from his old life but he never stopped loving Josie.  Ten years later, his best friend from school is killed and it’s time to go back to Beaumont to pay his respects.  He’ll also get to see Josie again of course and all he wants to know is if she’s happy.  What he finds, will rock his world. 

Forever My Girl is told from the alternating viewpoints of both Liam and Josie which is probably the ideal way to tell this story as it lets us into both of their heads.  What I liked most about this story is that it’s different from others in the same genre featuring rock stars.  When Liam goes back to Beaumont, he’s mostly just good old Liam that everyone used to know, they don’t look at him like he’s a celebrity, they just see the guy from high school. Thankfully, Liam is on the whole, a good guy.  He will make you swoon like crazy but you may also want to slap him at some point for being such an idiot.  Josie is a strong, brave lady who didn’t fall apart just because the love of her life left her.  Nope, she got on with her life the best she could and I admire her for that. 

You just know that their first meeting is going to be...interesting...and it most certainly is but perhaps not for the reasons you think!  Now that Liam is back in town, emotions are heightened and not just because of the funeral.  There’s unresolved business between Liam and Josie but not everyone is going to want to stand by and watch – namely Nick, Josie’s fiancée. 

I loved all the reveals in the book, all the explanations that fall into place and explain why things happened the way they did.  I have to say that I felt angry and hurt for them both that they wasted so much time being away from each other but who’s to say what would have happened if Liam had stayed.  He might have ended up resenting Josie and left anyway.  I guess we’ll never know. 
Forever My Girl was the sweetest kind of reading torture and had me in tears several times during reading.  I thoroughly enjoyed it and am looking forward to reading the next one in the series.  I wouldn’t be surprised if the spotlight shifts to Katelyn and a certain other character that appeared to be quite taken with her in this book.  It’s going to be another emo fest though as it’s probably too soon after losing Mason to even think about having a relationship with someone else.  I guess we’ll see ;)

Forever My Girl is published on 27th December, 2012.  To find out more about Heidi McLaughlin and her books, please click here to visit her website.

To celebrate the release of Forever My Girl, Heidi is giving away a KINDLE TOUCH and this contest is international so get entering!!!

Giveaway

 The first 200 people to purchase FOREVER MY GIRL will get a free download of the song PAINKILLERS! Just e-mail your proof of purchase to thebeaumontseries@gmail[dot] com.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Falling Kingdoms Review

In a land where magic has been forgotten but peace has reigned for centuries, a deadly unrest is simmering. Three kingdoms grapple for power--brutally transforming their subjects' lives in the process. Amidst betrayals, bargains, and battles, four young people find their fates forever intertwined:

Cleo: A princess raised in luxury must embark on a rough and treacherous journey into enemy territory in search of a magic long thought extinct.

Jonas: Enraged at injustice, a rebel lashes out against the forces of oppression that have kept his country impoverished--and finds himself the leader of a people's revolution centuries in the making.

Lucia: A girl adopted at birth into a royal family discovers the truth about her past--and the supernatural legacy she is destined to wield.

Magnus: Bred for aggression and trained to conquer, a firstborn son begins to realize that the heart can be more lethal than the sword...

The only outcome that's certain is that kingdoms will fall. Who will emerge triumphant when all they know has collapsed?
You need to know that I have been lusting after this book since I first heard about it, what seems like eons ago now.  I mean, a YA story aimed at Games of Thrones fans? HELL YEAH!!!  I actually ended up reading a completely legitimate A4 size manuscript of this (that’s letter size for the Americans) and I took it to work to read on night shifts.  If that isn’t commitment, I don’t know what is!  I looked forward to my break every night when I’d settle in for the next instalment and time would just fall away.  Falling Kingdoms is an epic fantasy that can be summed up in two distinct and meaningful words: devastatingly good.  That is to say that whilst it will devastate you, you’ll love every minute of reading. 

In the book, there are three main kingdoms that make up Mytica, a land that actually looks a lot like the United Kingdom.  There’s the icy Limeros in the North, resource poor but wine rich Palaesia in the middle and the affluent Auranos in the South. The story is told from the point of view of four different characters, representing each of the kingdoms, and as they edge toward the brink of war, their lives become intertwined.  I actually wrote a bunch of stuff about the plot but then deleted it all because really, what’s the point in spoiling all the surprises for you?  Just know that Morgan is not afraid to throw adversity in the face of her characters and she can be ruthless, you have been warned.

I have to say that at first, the cast of characters appeared vast and intimidating.  It does take about 50 pages or so to settle into the story and understand what’s going on but it’s totally worth it.  I did appreciate the map and character list/description at the beginning of the book and while I had to flip back and forth between the story and the list a few times at first, I then found that I didn’t need to.  Also, here’s a little tip that helped me to remember Mytica – I memorised LPA in my head so I would remember that Limeros was in the North, Palaesia was in the middle and Auranos was in the South.

Let’s talk about the characters that make up the four viewpoints in the book... 

JONAS (from Palaesia)was no more than a plot device to me at first, just a guy hell bent on avenging his brother’s death until I read on and now I know there is more to him and I’m curious to see this in future books.  Jonas character subtly changes and I saw hints of a spark between him and another character who shall remain nameless but I can’t wait to see what happens with that storyline.

CLEO is the princess of Auranos, and a sister with a good heart.  I’ve heard others call her whiny or spoilt but I didn’t think that at all.  She may make some stupid decisions at times but it comes from a good place and she is definitely the bravest character I’ve ever known.  I have no words for what happens to her other than ASFG!%^£&$%^&.

LUCIA is the princess of Limeros and a girl with a secret so big that it can’t be possibly be contained, regardless of the consequences. She’s a good girl and a dedicated sister to Magnus but I know there is more to come from her.  So much more.

Last but not least is MAGNUS, the prince of Limeros and son of the merciless Blood King.  He is I think my favourite character and probably because he is a tormented soul who also carries a devastating secret that will likely haunt him forever.  I can’t even.   All I can say is that I am hoping beyond hope that things work out for Magnus as I couldn’t bear it if it didn’t.

All in all, I can’t stop thinking about this book and I might just be a tiny bit obsessed with it LOL.  I’m practically beside myself thinking that I’m going to have to wait until Autumn 2013 for the next installment although I am pleased to hear that it is part of a four book series.  Morgan Rhodes is of course a pseudonym for Michelle Rowen and this is the first book of hers that I’ve read.  Rest assured that this is by no means the last and she’s definitely made a fan girl out of me.  This book is so epic that The CW needs to snatch this one up IMMEDIATELY and make it into a TV series or as I like to call it, INSTANT HIT.

Falling Kindgoms is one of my favourite books of 2012 and you should all go and buy it immediately.  If anyone has a copy of the next book *looks at Morgan/Michelle* I’d be willing to trade a body part to read it now.  Just saying.

Falling Kingdoms is published on 11th December, 2012 in the US and 3rd January, 2013 in the UK.  To find out more about Morgan Rhodes and her books, please click here to visit her website (Michelle Rowen writes under the pen name of Morgan Rhodes).  To find out more about Falling Kingdoms, please click here to visit the series website.

Letterbox Love (#33)

As always, Letterbox Love is a weekly feature that I'm hosting on the blog and basically, the idea came out of a discussion with other UK book bloggers about the need to do a weekly meme with more of a British feel to it. Therefore, Letterbox Love was born and the logo was lovingly designed by Dark Readers. Letterbox Love is a way for us to share the books that come through our letterbox, galleys and e books (through our electronic letterbox) and any other bookish goodies that we want to tell you about. Letterbox Love is intended to showcase upcoming books and build up some excitement for them as well as let you know what is available out there. It is not about competing with other bloggers or boasting of any kind (c'mon, we're British and we don't do drama!)

So, this is week 33 of Letterbox Love or as I like to call it...BEST. WEEK. FOR. BOOK. POST. EVER.  You'll see why ;)

Review Books

Undone by Cat Clarke

I have to admit, I do like the sound of this book although I fear Cat is going to have me in puddles of tears throughout.  

Requiem by Lauren Oliver

OMG, I actually squealed when I opened up this package and saw Requiem.  I'm DYING to see how it all ends, especially with THAT ending in Pandemonium.  I realised recently that my review of Pandemonium never posted and now I can't find it so I'm going to have to rewrite it!!  I can't wait to see how it all ends. 

Paper Valentine by Brenna Yovanoff

This sounds like a YA murder mystery to me and the protag's sidekick is the ghost of her best friend.  I have to say that I really wished they hadn't changed the cover as I love the US cover so much more.

 

Hunger by Melvin Burgess

This is a horror story of sorts or at the very least, creepy as hell.  I'm thinking it would make a great halloween read if you wanted to scare yourself stupid.  I'm not a big lover of scary books (I have no idea why, I quite like scary movies) perhaps it is because I fear my imagination the most ;) I'll probably wait for some reviews before I take a look at this one. 

A Conspiracy of Alchemists by Liesel Schwarz (Unsolicited)

This is a steampunk novel which I'm just not sure is my preferred genre.  I think I'll see if any of my friends and fellow book bloggers have to say before tackling this.

A Red Sun Also Rises by Mark Hodder (Unsolicited)

This is a sci fi book which I believe is the third book in a trilogy I've never heard of.  Not that I'm not grateful but I'll never understand why publishers send unsolicited books way down the line of a series someone has never read.  Isn't that a waste of money?  If anyone has read the other books and is desperate for this one, please drop me a line.

Osiris by E.J. Swift (Unsolicited)

This is book one in the series (HOORAH) and a debut sci fi novel set in the future.  It's had some good reviews on Amazon and whilst I still haven't got a clue what it's about (after reading the synopsis) we shall see if I get round to reading this one.

Thank you publishers!!!!

Books Bought

Beautiful Disaster (Special Edition Signed Hardback) by Jamie McGuire 

I LOVED this book and when I say LOVED, that really doesn't even cover it.  When I saw that there was a special edition signed hardback,  well lets just say that I'm glad no one was filming me.  I'm ecstatic to have this on the shelves and have given my paperback to my sister to enjoy :)

Falling Kingdoms by Morgan Rhodes

This is one of my top ten reads for 2012 and by God, I loved this book.  I think I may be a tad obsessed actually lol.  I'm ecstatic to own a hardback for my collection, I just wish I could get it signed!  Can we bring this lady to the UK please? PLEASE? *starts petition*.  Look out for my review on Monday ;)

  

Touching the Surface by Kimberley Sabatini (Gifted)

I actually bought this a while ago but after a little Twitter misunderstanding (Kimberley accidentally blocked me) we made friends properly and she sent me a super duper signed copy of her book and some swag.  I'm planning on having a contest REALLY soon to give away my copy and some of the signed swag of course ;)

Secret Santa

 

Just a little shout out to say thank you to my UKYABB Secret Santa whose gifts arrived this week too!  You'll be pleased to know that rather than ripping them open immediately as I was sorely tempted to do, I've put them under the tree like a good girl. 

EBooks

Where I Need to Be by Kimberley Knight (Bought)
I *think* this is a New Adult.  Anyway, a girl catches her boyfriend cheating and runs off to Vegas with her girlfriends and I guess what happens in Vegas...

Under the Mistletoe With Me by Kristen Proby (Bought)
This is a novella from the With Me in Seattle series and features two characters that we were introduced to in Come Away With Me.  I really appreciate the fact that this is set around Christmas time and it's being published at just the right time!


Tidal by Emily Snow (Bought)
I really like Emily Snow's books and if you haven't checked out Devoured yet, then you must!  Tidal is a New Adult book that's set around the world of acting and I presume it's in California (hence the beach on the cover).  Looking forward to reading this.


The Coincidence of Callie and Kayden by Jessica Sorensen (Bought)
This is a New Adult contemporary that sounds so good.  I don't believe in coincidence and I think that might be the point of the novel but we shall see.  It sounds like a guy and a girl who rescue each other and I'm definitely looking forward to reading this.


The Vincent Brothers: New and Uncut by Abbi Glines (Bought)
I'm still a little mad at buying both versions of both books in this series but there was no way I could miss out on new scenes and extra content.  Whilst I've already read The Vincent Boys, I'm going to re-read the new version soon as I loved it. 


Throne of Glass by Sarah J. Maas (Bought)
I read this earlier in the year and LOVED IT.  Whilst I have a paperback (I'm also itching to get the hardback because you know me and my hardbacks), I saw this on Amazon for 99p and decided to get it for my eBook collection.  I would advise you all to do the same, especially if you haven't read it yet because it's an awesome story and a bargain at that price.


Avow by Chelsea Fine (Bought)
This is the third and final book in The Archers of Avalon series that I've already read and reviewed here.  Needless to say that I loved it and it was a great ending to a wonderful series.

The Edge of Never by J. A. Redmerski (Bought)
This is a New Adult contemporary novel.  I always want to read about someone who vows never to fall in love as you just know that belief is going to be tested and I look forward to the deliciousness of it.


My Misery Muse by Brei Betzold (Bought)
I have a friend who read this and is raving about it (as an aside, she is costing me so much money lately with her recommendations).  This is a New Adult novel with tattoo artists and rock stars.  Bring it on!


Try Me, Tempt Me, Take Me (One Night with Sole Regret Anthology) by Olivia Cunning (Bought)
I recently read Backstage Pass by Olivia Cunning (which I LOVED) and so I knew I wanted to buy these.  They've recently been bundled together for a lower price and so I jumped on it.  Just to let you know what you're letting yourself in for, Olivia writes about hot rock stars and steamy doesn't even come close.  You've been warned ;)


Wallbanger by Alice Clayton (Bought)
This one sounded hilarious and I can tell you that it is.  I'm reading it right now and I've just basically got a smile plastered on my face the whole time.  It's full of laugh out loud moments and just basically a fun book.  Really enjoying it. 


Undeniable by Madeline Sheehan (Bought)
This book is billed as an epic love story that will tear your heart to pieces.  I have to know if that's true, what can I say, I'm a glutton for punishment!


Teasing Trent by Minx Malone (Free)
This is a prequel to One More Day (The Alexanders) and it was free so I thought, why not?!  The series has been highly rated and I'm looking forward to diving in.


One More Day by Minx Malone (Bought)
It was only 99p and like I said, it's been highly rated and I'm curious. 
 
Waterfall by Lisa T. Bergren (Free)
I've been wanting to read this series for a while now but the eBooks are pretty pricey in comparison to most so I was ecstatic to see that it was being offered as a free download on Amazon.  I'm interested to read but not so enthusiastic at having to pay the high price for the rest of the series if i carry on with it. 

Beautiful Bastard by Christina Lauren (Netgalley)
This is the new Twilight fan fiction novel that is being hyped up and perhaps riding off the back of not only Twilight but Fifty Shades of Grey.  I've actually read this in the past week but I'm saving my review for a little bit longer as it's not out until February.  It's got flaws but it's a steamy read and I sort of hate myself for liking it.  But I do.  

Sister Assassin (Mind Games) by Kiersten White (Netgalley) 
I have no idea why they changed the name of this book for the UK market but I still want to read it.  I can't believe that although I have the whole Paranormal series on my shelves, I still haven't read anything from Kiersten and I know on Twitter, she is hilarious so I have to read this!

Splintered by A.G. Howard (Netgalley) 
This is a companion read to Alice in Wonderland and not a retelling.  I repeat, it is NOT a retelling.  This comes highly recommended by Melissa Marr (author of Wicked Lovely) and I have to say that she has never steered me wrong.  I'm curious to read this and I hope it's as amazing as everyone says it is.  The goodreads reviews are fantastic :)


Forever My Girl by Heidi McLaughlin (For Review)
A hot rock star, first love and an angst fest?  Sounds like this book was MADE for me.  I've read it, I loved it and I'm reviewing it really soon as part of a blog tour.  If you're wondering, it comes out on 27th December, 2012. 


I think this has been on of the best weeks for book mail EVER and I have to say that I cannot get enough of books and reading and I hope I never will.  As always, I hope you had as awesome a week for books as I did and please leave your links below so I can check them out :)

Inbetween Book Trailer

Do you happen to remember that wonderful book I reviewed back in October this year called Inbetween by Tara Fuller? Do you also remember me saying that it is one of my favourite books of 2012 and you all need to read it?  WELL....

Don't die of shock or anything but I had a go at making my very first book trailer and I've done it for Inbetween.  I'm telling you now that it's not perfect, I have no knowledge or skills in this area let alone the right equipment for it but I was so determined to do it, I guess it really is amazing what you can do when you put your mind to it. 

So, without further ado...here it is....*hides in a corner*

Did you giggle at 1.18 of the trailer? I always do, I can't help myself!  If you're interested in reading the book (as you should be) then please check out my review here and for more information about Tara, please click here to visit her website.

Holiday Reads

The holiday season is in full swing and now we're counting down the days until Christmas.  For some of you, this will mean that you've broken up from school/college/university and some lucky people may have time off work to enjoy as they wish (I hate you all...not really).  I'm obsessed at this time of the year with finding holiday inspired fiction to read and I thought I would share what I've found with you.

For the Young Adults...

Dash and Lily's Book of Dares 

 "I've left some clues for you.If you want them, turn the page.If you don't, put the book back on the shelf, please." 

So begins the latest whirlwind romance from the "New York Times" bestselling authors of "Nick & Norah's Infinite Playlist." Lily has left a red notebook full of challenges on a favorite bookstore shelf, waiting for just the right guy to come along and accept its dares. But is Dash that right guy? Or are Dash and Lily only destined to trade dares, dreams, and desires in the notebook they pass back and forth at locations across New York? Could their in-person selves possibly connect as well as their notebook versions? Or will they be a comic mismatch of disastrous proportions? 

Rachel Cohn and David Levithan have written a love story that will have readers perusing bookstore shelves, looking and longing for a love (and a red notebook) of their own. 

Let it Snow

 The New York Times bestseller!

Sparkling white snowdrifts, beautiful presents wrapped in ribbons, and multicolored lights glittering in the night through the falling snow. A Christmas Eve snowstorm transforms one small town into a romantic haven, the kind you see only in movies. Well, kinda. After all, a cold and wet hike from a stranded train through the middle of nowhere would not normally end with a delicious kiss from a charming stranger. And no one would think that a trip to the Waffle House through four feet of snow would lead to love with an old friend. Or that the way back to true love begins with a painfully early morning shift at Starbucks. Thanks to three of today’s bestselling teen authors—John Green, Maureen Johnson, and Lauren Myracle—the magic of the holidays shines on these hilarious and charming interconnected tales of love, romance, and breathtaking kisses.

 

Decked with Holly 

Smartly blending of-the-moment pop culture references and timeless themes, Bates follows her YA debut, "Awkward", with a hilarious, over-the-top adventure about a teen girl who becomes the fake girlfriend of a cute rock star.

Taking a Christmas cruise with her two cousins from hell isn't Holly's idea of a good time. And when seasickness forces her into an open suite, she's pepper-sprayed by a gorgeous guy called Nick. But when Holly makes her exit, she's greeted by a horde of screaming teenage fans. Because Nick happens to be Dominic Wyatt, drummer for one of the hottest bands in America. Suddenly rumours are swirling and Holly's face is plastered all over the Internet. The band can't risk a scandal destroying their family-friendly image, so Dominic convinces Holly to be his fake girlfriend - just for two weeks. How bad could it be to be "fauxmantically" involved with a cute rock star? She's about to find out...

Ex-Mas 

Two Exes. One holiday adventure. Merry Ex-Mas?

Seventeen-year-old Lila Beckwith's parents just left for vacation, and Lila's all set to throw the holiday party of the season. But when her Christmas-obsessed little brother, Cooper, discovers that global warming is melting the North Pole, he and his best friend, Tyler, take off on a runaway mission to save Santa. 

Lila has to get Cooper safely home before her parents get back on Christmas Eve. But the only person who can help her is Tyler's older brother, Beau — a.k.a. Lila's musician, anti-everything ex-boyfriend. 

It'll take more than a Christmas miracle for Lila and Beau to overcome their differences and find their fugitive brothers. But could a journey destined for disaster help these polar opposites fall in love...all over again?

North Pole High: A Rebel Without a Clause

 

MEET SIXTEEN-YEAR-OLD CANDYCANE CLAUS. 

She's the most popular girl at North Pole High. Her father is world-famous. And every day is Christmas. What more could any girl want?

BOYS! And the new boy, Rudy Tutti, is hot chocolate. But he hates anything to do with Christmas!

When Candy and Rudy are forced to work together on a school Christmas-tree project, her world is turned upside down: Her grades start to suffer, she loses her taste for ice cream, and now the two North-Star-cross'd teens must contend with her overprotective father — Santa Claus — before Christmas is ruined for EVERYONE!

 

 

 

 

Secret Santa 

A tale of love, romance, confusion, and Christmas perfectly timed for the holiday season.

Noelle, a hopeless romantic, just knows that her gifts have to be from her senior crush! And geeky Froggy thinks the game is the perfect way to get super-popular Celia to fall for him...except she thinks his gifts are from Jake, the school's resident bad boy, and starts to crush on him! Romantic mishaps abound, but all is revealed the night of the Winter Dance, where there's more than one surprise waiting under the mistletoe!

Mistletoe

Snuggle up beside the fire with this juicy collection of four different, but equally sizzling, winter romances.

Glittering white snowflakes. The handsome blond ski instructor. The sparkle on a cashmere skirt. Hot cocoa and kisses in front of a crackling fire. The holiday season is the ESSENCE of magic...and romance. Four of today's bestselling teen authors -- Melissa de la Cruz (THE AU PAIRS), Aimee Friedman (SOUTH BEACH), Hailey Abbott (SUMMER BOYS), and Nina Malkin (6X) -- bring us delectable tales of love and lust and holiday cheers (and tears) in this one-of-a-kind collection that teens will devour faster than a plate of Christmas cookies.

Snowed In

 Well, apparently I live here now--my mom just bought the place. And named it after me, Ashleigh, which was nice. But did she know how cold it is here

Um, it's a tiny island with not much to do, unless you really like sleigh rides. But I gotta say there are quite a few hot guys on this cold island . . .

Love on the Lifts

 

 
Winter Break super-secret perfect cocoa recipe:
8 oz steamed whole milk

(no skim! doesn't work!)
2 tbsp. dark cocoa powder (big scoops)
1 tbsp. sugar (can't be too sweet)
4 dried, crushed mint leaves (or 1 tbsp. mint syrup)

Stir thoroughly. Add mint swizzle stick. Combine with cute ski instructor, or brother's cute best friend, or cute guy you never noticed was so cute...Enjoy.

The Prince and the Snowgirl

Everyone thinks Tom Miller is lucky. For starters, Tom looks so much like England's Prince George that he makes money impersonating him. Unfortunately, that usually involves signing autographs at the latest supermarket opening. Still, Tom is one of the most popular guys at Emerson High, the finest school in the area. And best of all, nearly every girl falls for his princely good looks—every girl, that is, except Louise.

Tom wishes he could find the way to Louise's heart, and the school skiing trip seems like the perfect opportunity to impress her with his royal charm. But when the real Prince George arrives at their hotel, it's time for Tom to shed his public persona and start living up to his own potential.

Jingle Boy

 

Sixteen-year-old Paul Nicholas is a self-confessed Christmas fanatic. That’s why he’s so smitten with Sarah—a girl who smells like peppermint and thinks picking out presents to the strains of “Winter Wonderland” is the ultimate afternoon activity. But when he catches Sarah making out with Santa Claus at the Paramus Park mall, his dad’s over-the-top lights catch the Nicholas house on fire, and his mom gets fired from Fortunoff’s because of something he did for Christmas for Sarah, Paul gets caught in a downward spiral of holiday gloom. This year, the spirit of Scrooge has settled in—and it’s not going to be pretty. Or will the spirit of the holiday prevail?

 

 

 

 

French Kissmas

 

For Nicole Larson, the Christmas season in Paris is more than just a romantic interlude?it's also a homecoming. Nic studied abroad in Paris a year ago, and is back in town with her friend Annike to spend Christmas and New Year's in the City of Light. Of course, now that Nic is there, the chemistry she once had with Parisian hottie Luc instantly reignites. But why fuel a romance that has only three weeks to survive? Nic would rather spend time with her new buddy Mike . . . until it becomes clear that Mike is also interested in being more than just friends. With a backdrop of twinkling lights on the Champs-Elys?es and Parisian Christmas carols, it's going to be difficult for Nic to deny the romance around her. . .

For the Adults...

Under the Mistletoe with Me

This is a novella featuring characters from Kristen's book Come Away With Me. 

 Isaac and Stacy Montgomery have been married for ten years. They have a beautiful new baby girl, Isaac’s construction business is thriving, and Stacy enjoys being a stay at home mom, reviewing sexy romance novels for her blog. With a very large extended family, and the many privileges they enjoy, Stacy will be the first to admit that they are blessed beyond measure.

When suspicious phone calls and text messages begin, Stacy questions Isaac’s faithfulness for the first time in their marriage. She knows that a new baby brings changes into a relationship, but has the stress of parenthood sent Isaac into another woman’s arms, threatening to destroy their marriage?

This With Me In Seattle novella shows us a glimpse into Jules’ brother, Isaac, and his wife Stacy’s lives, introduces us to some new characters, and reminds us of what it means to reconnect with the person you love the most, even if they never left in the first place.

A Very Naughty Xmas 

SHARE ME by Olivia Cunning
Lindsay longs for an amazing Christmas Eve with her favorite band, Sole Regret, and spends one snowy night with two generous rock stars who love to share their gifts.

JINGLE BALL by Cari Quinn
This Christmas, rocking the holiday office party has taken on a whole new meaning...

LIGHT ME UP by Cherrie Lynn
She's dreaming of a little sparkle in her stocking this year. He's planning a night that's anything but silent...

AN INDECENT PROPOSITION by Stephanie Julian
Two men. One Woman. Half a million dollars. A very indecent proposal...

CHRISTMAS IS COMING by Raven Morris
The best gifts are all tied up with bow.. 

Naughty and Nice: Three Holiday Treats

’Tis the season for romance with three original holiday-themed novellas! Unwrap this festive eBook bundle and discover why these authors are quickly becoming the biggest names in the genre. Ruthie Knox tells a heartwarming contemporary story of first loves given the gift of a second chance; Molly O’Keefe releases the ghosts of Christmas past with a prequel to her novel Crazy Thing Called Love; and Stefanie Sloane weaves an irresistible Regency tale of fiery passion that burns deep on a cold winter’s night.

ROOM AT THE INN by Ruthie Knox

Carson Vance couldn’t wait to get out of Potter Falls, but now that he’s back to spend Christmas with his ailing father, he must face all the people he left behind . . . like Julie Long, whose heart he broke once upon a time. Now the proprietor of the local inn, Julie is a successful, seductive, independent woman—everything that Carson’s looking for. But despite several steamy encounters under the mistletoe, Julie refuses to believe in happily ever after. Now Carson must prove to Julie that he’s back for good—and that he wants her in his life for all the holidays to come.

ALL I WANT FOR CHRISTMAS IS YOU by Molly O’Keefe

Maddy Baumgarten and Billy Wilkins are spontaneous, in love, and prepared to elope the day after Christmas—that is, if Maddy’s family doesn’t throw a wrench in their plans. After all, Maddy’s barely out of high school and Billy’s a notorious bad boy. Maddy doesn’t care about Billy’s rough past—all she cares about is living in the here and now. But after Maddy’s mother stops speaking to her in protest, and a Christmas Eve heart-to-heart with her father leaves her with butterflies, Maddy starts to get cold feet. She loves Billy, but is she taking this big step too soon?

ONE PERFECT CHRISTMAS by Stephanie Sloane

After being jilted by her fiancé, Jane Merriweather turns to her dear childhood friend, the Honorable Lucas Cavanaugh, for support—and unlocks the smoldering desire simmering in the man’s troubled heart. Frightened by his newfound feelings, Lucas flees to Scotland. But when the Christmas season brings them together again, one glance is all that’s needed to reignite his yearning. If Lucas can convince Jane that his intentions are as pure as the falling snow, they’ll turn a dreary December into a joyous Yuletide affair.

 

 

 

 

Unwrap Me

 

 

 This year, Christmas comes early for grad-student Peyton Wagner. Being asked to T.A. a handful of classes may not be cause for celebration for her classmates, but for Peyton, it is. Not only will it ensure a snazzy recommendation from her professor at the end of the term, but it keeps her out of her Podunk town—and away from her abusive ex, Blake Hunter. Now that's a holiday miracle.

But as Peyton soon discovers, some miracles come with unexpected and deliciously tempting surprises. And when her past and present collide in a shocking yuletide twist, Peyton has to choose between playing it safe with her mended heart, or risking it all for the chance at a new future . . . and the gift of true love.

Unwrap Me is the first in a series from Carolina Jordan and Samantha Spencer for Swoon Romance. 

 

 

 

 

 

Wolfsbane and Mistletoe

 

 

The editors of "Many Bloody Returns" deliver the perfect howl-iday gift, with new tales from Patricia Briggs, Carrie Vaughn, and many more.

"New York Times" bestselling authors Charlaine Harris, Patricia Briggs, Keri Arthur, and Carrie Vaughn—along with eleven other masters of the genre—offer all-new stories on werewolves and the holidays, a fresh variation on the concept that worked so well with birthdays and vampires in "Many Bloody Returns."

The holidays can bring out the beast in anyone. They are particularly hard for lycanthropes. Charlaine Harris and Toni L. P. Kelner have harvested the scariest, funniest and saddest werewolf tales by an outstanding pack of authors, best read by the light of a full moon with a silver bullet close at hand.

Whether wolfing down a holiday feast (use your imagination) or craving some hair of the dog on New Year's morning, the werewolves in these frighteningly original stories will surprise, delight, amuse, and scare the pants off readers who love a little wolfsbane with their mistletoe. 

 

 

This is probably just a small selection of what's out there and available but whatever you choose to read this holiday, I hope you enjoy!