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 Best Kind of Broken by Chelsea Fine. Here's the synopsis:

Pixie and Levi haven't spoken in nearly a year when they find themselves working―and living―at the same inn in the middle of nowhere. Once upon a time, they were childhood friends. But that was before everything went to hell. And now things are... awkward.

All they want to do is avoid each other, and their past, for as long as possible. But now that they're forced to share a bathroom, and therefore a shower, keeping their distance from one another becomes less difficult than keeping their hands off each other. Welcome to the hallway of awkward tension and sexual frustration, folks. Get comfy. It’s going to be a long summer.

It's no secret that Chelsea Fine is one of my favourite authors.  I fell head over heels in love with her Archers of Avalon series and have since tried to get my hands on everything she has ever written.   This is Chelsea's New Adult offering and I may just have had a sneaky peek.  Let me tell you that it is not only amazing but it's also well written, well edited and has a fresh feel to it. If you're tired of broken characters (and believe me, I SO AM) do not exclude this book from your TBR as it's more that the relationship is broken rather than the characters.  This book is funny, heartwarming, sexy as hell.  It basically ticks all the right boxes so add it to your wishlist now!  I'm totally buying the book for my collection.   

Best Kind of Broken is published on 4th March, 2014.  

Letterbox Love (#73)

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!)

Review Books

Allegiant by Veronica Roth

I can't believe it's finally here.  The last part of the Divergent series has finally been published and I'm starting this imediately.  I'm absolutely terrified that someone online is going to spoil it for me and already people are dropping hints - if that's you, then please STOP.  Anyway, now that I'm caught up on what happened in Insurgent, I'm reading this now and may have to go a bit dark for a while so if you don't see me around...you know why.

 

The Naturals by Jennifer Lynn Barnes

I love the fact that The Naturals are a secret FBI programme for exceptionally talented teenagers. What a great hook for a book and I'm curious to know if this is any good.

THANK YOU Publishers!!!!

Books Bought

Under the Dome by Stephen King 

I LOVE this TV series so much so, that I've given in and bought the book and let me tell you, it is HUGE.  I knew I wanted the hardback with this particular cover and I contemplated getting a first edition but then I found an ex library copy on eBay and including postage, it was about £3.  Bargain and now I don't have to ask Santa for it. 

Beneath This Man by Jodi Ellen Malpas

I love this series so much that although I've read the ebooks, I had to have the paperbacks too.  And I bought my sister a copy for Christmas (together with the first book).  If you haven't started this series, DO IT.  They're adult books and one of my favourite series out there.

E Books 


One Last Chance by Shelby Gates (Bought)
A high school reunion..on a cruise?!  Sounds awesome already as there's really nowhere to hide, and certainly not from an ex boyfriend.  Especially as there was a mix up and she's got nowhere to sleep.  Sounds interesting ;)
 
Stranded with a Billionaire by Jessica Clare (Bought)
"The Billionaire Boys Club is a secret society of six men who have vowed success – at any cost. Not all of them are old money, but all of them are incredibly wealthy. They’re just not always as successful when it comes to love…" SOLD. 

Beauty and the Billionaire by Jessica Clare (Bought)
This is book two in the series and I had to get it.  I just had to. 

The Wrong Billionaire's Bed by Jessica Clare (Bought) 
I have to admit that I love the title of this book - I mean just HOW do you get the wrong billionaire?  And if you're after only money then I suppose it doesn't matter, right?  I think it throws up a lot of questions and once I clicked on it, I found out that it was the third book in the series so I went and bought the other two which also sound awesome. 

Fate Book by Mimi Jean Pamfiloff (Bought)
The synopsis for this is both funny and mysterious.  I want to know why the MC lied, how the guy found out and who the hell he is?! Hooked. 

Gone Girl by Gillian Flynn (Bought)
Although I have the paperback, I STILL haven't read this and as it's on sale for 99p at the moment, I'm considering giving the paperback to my mum to read on her holiday.  However, I have also got her the new Wilbur Smith which will keep her busy!

A Shade of Vampire by Bella Forrest (Bought)
To be honest, I thought I already had this book but apparently not.  I heard it had gone on sale and so I thought I would put it in my "when I need a good vampire read" category ;)

Surrender Your Love by J.C. Reed (Bought)
There's nothing better than finding out that the man you left naked in your bed is your new boss.  Awkwardness ensues but she's a woman who doesn't surrender to love and he's not used to taking no for an answer.  I definitely want to find out what happens here. 

Finding You by S.K. Hartley (Bought)
Another book I love the sound of,  yes even though it seems the girl is a bit broken (aren't they all) because it centres on the romance rather than the circumstances. 


Knight and Play by Kitty French (Bought) 
I'm intrigued with the plot of this book and I want to know what makes it different from all the other adult erotic reads.  I've heard great things about the book so I'm going to give it a go.


Dark Wings by Skyla Madi (Free)
Although this is a book about angels, what I like is that the story is between two angels, rather than a human and an angel. 

Either Side of Midnight by Tori de Clare (Free) 
I'm so curious about this book, especially as there is a lot of mystery involved and a lot of questions to be answered.  Yes, I will definitely be reading this one.

Resisting the Bad Boy by Violet Duke (Free)
I quite like the good girl/bad boy trope and this sounds like a grown up version of that.  I know it's part of a series and I'm intrigued by the synopsis.

Selling Scarlett by Ella James (Free)
I'm pretty sure I got this on Netgalley but it's also free on Amazon right now.  This is about a girl auctioning off her virginity for money that she desperately needs.  I've simplified it there but read the synopsis as I'm intrigued to read it.

Forever by Eve Newton (Free)
Firstly, obviously this lady has a fabulous surname but not only that, the book sounds interesting too.  This is the story of a thousand year old female vampire and the three guys she shares a connection with.  Tons of five star reviews on Amazon and an interesting plot made this one an easy one click decision. 


Close Up and Personal by J.S. Taylor (Free)
This is book one in the series and is about an alpha male and possibly along the same lines as Fifty Shades.  What I'm curious about is that this book is set in the UK and that's refreshing as so many are US based.

Unexpected Gifts by Elena Aitken (Free)
I got this one because it sounds like a really cute Christmas read and we're heading toward that season now. 


Lost & Found by K.F. Breene (Free)
I'm going into this one with caution as I understand that there's a big cliffhanger and two more books set at a higher price to buy.  I guess we'll see if I want to continue reading. 

Big Girls Do It (Boxset) by Jasinder Wilder (Free)
There are so many books in this series but the first FOUR are free which is pretty amazing.  I've seen nothing but praise for the series so I'm definitely interested in giving it a go. 

One More Day by M. Malone (Free)
I'm immensely curious about The Alexanders series as I think it's something I would like.  This is the first book and I think the plot is clever.

Entanglement by Dan Rix (Free)
Out of all the free books I've downloaded from Amazon, this is the one I'm most excited about because it's a YA dystopian romance about soulmates and what happens if you don't have one.  I want to read it NOW but I need to get through Allegiant so I can get back online and stop avoiding people LOL. 
 
Time After Time by Tamara Ireland Stone (Netgalley - For Review)
I really enjoyed Time Between Us (C'mon, it's a time travel novel and you KNOW how I love time travel books) and I'm really excited to read the sequel. I can't imagine though what is going to happen next!

Switched by Cassie Mae (Netgalley - For Review)
I love the sound of this book, and how best laid plans never quite work out how you think they will, especially when it involves matters of the heart.  I'm a little anxious about lusting over your best friend's boyfriend but I'm willing to keep an open mind at this point.

Soul Possessed by Katlyn Duncan (Netgalley - For Review)
I still need to finish the first book in this series but I'm definitely interested to find out what happens next!

Mine by Katy Evans (Netgalley - For Review)
I LOVED Real and I couldn't wait to read the next installment, so I'm incredibly grateful to get this.  Actually, I've already read it as I couldn't wait and it was amazing!  I totally want to buy the paperbacks. 


I have a confession to make.  Whilst writing this post, I actually made more work for myself by continuing to one click on Amazon.  I couldn't help myself, hence the fact that this post is now a bit late. As I said earlier, I'm starting with Allegiant so as to avoid potential online spoilers and then I will read an ebook methinks.  I want to read Entanglement as I can't stop thinking about it and the fact that it's written by a guy, really intrigues me.  Anyway, I hope you had a great week for books and as always, please share your links below.

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 Banished by Liz De Jager. Here's the synopsis:

Sworn to protect, honour and slay — because chaos won’t banish itself

Kit is proud to be a Blackhart, now she’s living with her unorthodox cousins and sharing their strange lives. Especially since their home-schooling includes spells, fighting enemy fae and using ancient weapons.

But it’s not until she rescues a rather handsome fae prince, fighting for his life on the edge of Blackhart Manor, that her training really kicks in. With her family away on various missions, Kit must protect Prince Thorn, rely on new friends and use her own unfamiliar magic to stay ahead of Thorn’s enemies.

As things go from bad to apocalyptic, fae battle fae in a war that threatens to spill into the human world. Then Kit pits herself against the Elder Gods themselves – it’s that or lose everyone she’s learnt to love.

I wanted to be one of the first bloggers to feature Banished on Waiting on Wednesday as huge disclaimer here - Liz is a good friend and fellow UK book blogger.  I am so, so proud to be featuring her BEAUTIFUL book today - I love the cover and the synopsis is gripping.  I'm not just saying this but I'm really looking forward to reading this (and also a little scared if I'm honest since Liz is a friend) but I can't wait to find out what it's all about.  

Banished is published on 27th February, 2014.

Letterbox Love (#72)

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!)

Review Books

 Curtsies and Conspiracies by Gail Carriger (Unsolicited)

I haven't started this series but I'm aware of it.  I'm still waiting to be won over by steampunk.

Long Live the Queen by Kate Locke (Unsolicited)

This is another series I haven't started but I'm not really interested in this one so again, library or die hard fan bound.

Last to Rise by Francis Knight (Unsolicited)

This is book 3 of a series I've never heard of and never read.  I have too many books to read as is and so this is going to the library or if I can find a die hard fan who wants it, then it's theirs.

Thank You Publishers!!!

Books Bought

This Man by Jodi Ellen Malpas

This is one of my favourite erotic romance books and it's just been released in paperback so I had to get myself a copy.  I have the chance to meet Jodi next month but I don't think I'm going to be able to go so I plan to ask a friend to get this signed for me.  I also bought a copy for my sister for Christmas and I just know she is going to love it!  I'm definitely buying the other two books when they are released and I would die happy if they ever came out in special, limited edition hardback.  Anyone for starting a petition?  What I love about this series, apart from the fact that it is awesome, is that Jodi is British and I'm so proud of her.

E Books

Crown of Midnight by Sarah J. Maas (Bought)
So I have an ARC of this but I saw the kindle version on sale and bought it as I also have Throne of Glass on kindle.  If they ever brought out special, limited edition hardbacks with the UK covers, I'd totally buy the physical books, too.

Lash by L.G. Castillo (Bought)
Are angel books making a bit of a comeback? Maybe.  After reading and Loving Angelfall, I saw this which comes highly recommended and I love the storyline.  

Vivian's List by Haleigh Lovell (Bought)
I LOVE the sound of this book.  It's billed as a New Adult erotic romance and I don't see anything wrong with mixing the two if that's the kind of book that it is.  I like the fact that it's about one woman's sexual discovery after leaving an abuse relationship. 

Madeleine Abducted by M.S. Willis (Bought)
I think this book sounds so interesting and is probably along similar lines as C.J. Roberts books which immediately has me sold as I loved those. 

Equisite by Ella Frank (Bought)
I've heard a lot about these books and how awesome they are, and I love the covers.  I've finally gotten round to buying the first one in the series so I can give it a go.  

Enraptured by Alannah Carbonneau (Free)
Not sure if I just got this because it's free but I do like the idea of two people who are totally wrong for each other and the slow burn from friendship into something more.  It's got potential.

Mine for Tonight by J.S. Scott (Free)
I'm curious about this one and loving that it features a nursing student BUT I am really tired of writers publishing novella's when really it's just one book broken down into small parts.  You don't make more money that way, you just piss off the reader.

Strength by Carrie Butler (Free)
Confession - I read this a long time ago and remember liking it on the whole.  I should probably write my review of it!

Finding Cinderella by Colleen Hoover (Free)
Another confession - I still haven't read any of Colleen Hoover's books yet.

Broken by C.J. Lyons (Netgalley - For Review)
I'm really curious about the twists in this book and how it's being billed as a fresh contemporary novel.  This spurs me on to read it. 

I'm still trying to be good but I found some books recently that I really wanted.  There are two that I want but pricier and I hate paying £4-5 upwards for ebooks.  I'm still hoping they will come down eventually, perhaps as we ebb away from release day.  I'm just about to start Teardrop by Lauren Kate.  What are you reading this week?  As always, I hope you had a great week for books and please share your links below.

The Edge of Always Review

He was taking the long road. She was taking the road to nowhere. It just so happened that they led to the same place…

When everything falls apart, love remains . . .

THE EDGE OF ALWAYS

Camryn Bennett has never been happier. Five months after meeting on a Greyhound bus, she and her soul mate Andrew Parrish are engaged—and a wedding isn’t the only special event in their future. Nervous but excited, Camryn can’t wait to begin the rest of her life with Andrew – a man she knows in her heart will love her always. They have so much to look forward to—until tragedy blindsides them.

Andrew doesn’t understand how this could happen to them. He’s trying to move on, and thought Camryn was doing the same. But when Andrew discovers Camryn is secretly harboring a mountain of pain and attempting to numb it in damaging ways, there is nothing he won’t do to bring her back to life. Determined to prove that their love can survive anything, Andrew decides to take Camryn on a new journey filled with hope and passion. If only he can convince her to come along for the ride…
I really loved The Edge of Never (my review is here if you're interested) and in fact, you may not know this but in the original ebook, it said that it was a standalone novel.  THEN, it became successful and was picked up by a traditional publisher and became even more successful.  I guess the author decided that the story wasn’t done or perhaps she bowed down to pressure from fans, regardless a sequel was born. It goes without saying that if you haven’t read The Edge of Never then you really shouldn’t read this review because you may encounter spoilers.

The Edge of Always continues Camryn and Andrew’s story and what happened AFTER the whirlwind romance.  I’d like to say, what happened when reality set in but I think their situation is unusual at best.  Then again, it would probably be boring if it was just another couple trying to cope in today’s struggling economy.  Luckily for them, Andrew has over $500k sitting in his bank account although I forget exactly how he came to have it.  I think one of the problems for me with this book is that I’m not sure if I get the whole travelling bug, especially when I’m at the stage where I want to settle down and would do just about anything to have that sort of money lying around.  All debts would be paid off, I’d buy a property and get the job I WANT rather than having to do a job I don’t love as much just for the money so I can live.  Sure, I’d want to go on holiday but I’m not sure if I’d want to travel for extended periods as I feel it would be frivolous spending.  At the same time, maybe I’m just envious and slightly resentful that Camryn and Andrew have the opportunity to travel around, free of debt and responsibility.  I do wonder what that sense of freedom would feel like.  I honestly don’t know what the answer is but it raises some interesting internal questions for me.  All in all, I think what I enjoyed about The Edge of Never is that Camryn and Andrew were just two normal people who came together by chance because they were on the same bus.  They could have been me, you or anyone but in this book, it’s like they’re not the norm anymore and that’s something that they’re proud of but for me, it means that the characters are less relatable.  I hope that makes sense!

Getting back to the book, I thought it started off a bit slow and admittedly, there were times when I was a little bored but thankfully, it did pick up and when Camryn and Andrew went back on the road that was a major turning point for me.

If I’m completely honest, I would have been perfectly happy if The Edge of Never had been a standalone book as I really don’t think a sequel was necessary in this case.  That being said, overall, I did enjoy the story but sadly, it lacked the magic that The Edge of Never had.  I do however think that it’s a must read for diehard fans.

The Edge of Always is published on 7th November, 2013.  To find out more about J.A. Redmerski’s books, please click here to visit her website.

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 Recklessly Royal by Nichole Chase. Here's the synopsis:

Catherine has spent her life being the perfect princess. She’s kept her hands clean, her head down, and most importantly—men at arm’s length. After all, most men are after only one thing, and for Cathy there’s a lot more at stake than her bed; she has to worry about the fate of an entire nation. But at the rate she’s going, Cathy is afraid she’ll give the Virgin Queen a run for her money. She is tired of waiting for someone good enough to come along. She has a plan, and it all hinges on seducing the one man who seems utterly unimpressed by all things royal. The one man she is tempted by more than any other . . .

When David arrives at the royal wedding of his friend, the newly ordained Duchess Samantha Rousseau, he expected to feel uncomfortable and out of his element, but he wasn’t prepared to be targeted by Prince Alex’s gorgeous younger sister. With Cathy’s giant blue eyes, killer figure, and sense of humor, it won’t take long before he gives in. But when he finds out just how innocent the crown princess really is, will he play the part of knight in shining armor or the dashing rogue?

I LOVED Suddenly Royal and begged Nichole Chase for a sequel.  I am so glad she listened to the fans as Recklessly Royal is coming our way!!  Although Samantha still features in the book, the sequel is more of a companion novel as it centres on Prince Alex's younger sister, Princess Catherine.  I can't wait to read it and immerse myself back in that world.

Recklessly Royal is published on 25th March, 2013.  

Out of Line Review

Desperate to break free…

I've spent my entire life under my father’s thumb, but now I'm finally free to make my own choices. When my roommate dragged me to my first college party, I met Finn Coram and my life turned inside out. He knows how to break the rules and is everything I never knew I wanted. A Marine by day and surfer by night, he pushes me away even as our attraction brings us closer. Now I am finally free to do whatever I want. I know what I want. I choose Finn.

Trying to play by the rules...

I always follow orders. My job, my life, depends on it. I thought this job would be easy, all the rules were made crystal clear, but when I met Carrie Wallington, everything got muddy. She's a rule I know I shouldn't break, but damn if I don’t inch closer to the breaking point each time I see her. I’m ready to step out of line. And even worse? I’m living a lie. They say the truth will set you free, but in my case…

The truth will cost me everything.
So, let’s get one thing straight.  I like to think of myself as an intelligent woman, I mean I’m well educated and I have a healthy dose of common sense but I know when I’m being manipulated and that’s exactly what Jen McLaughlin did with Out of Line.  Let’s take Finn, romantic lead and general heartthrob of the novel as the prime example here.

1.    He's a marine.
Who DOESN’T dig a man in uniform?!  He’s strong, muscular, brave and protective of Carrie, he actively wants to take care of her.  Can you say swoontastic?

2.    He has tattoos.
So, there’s a hint of a bad boy lurking underneath then.  Plus, tats look hot on a guy.

3.    He surfs.
So he has a great body and a killer tan.  Maybe he’s also a little spiritual and a bit of a deep thinker.  Yep, I’m liking everything I see so far.

4.    He holds Carrie’s hair when she pukes.
I have no words but secretly, I would love to be with someone who cares THAT MUCH about me that he’s willing to see my stomach contents.

5.    He’s good in bed.
This is a given nowadays with male characters, right?

6.    He’s pretty much perfect.
And that sums it up in a nutshell.  He is the perfect guy because not only is he easy on the eye, but there’s something upstairs (and downstairs...ahem...) that makes him interesting.  He’s also snarky at times and likes to tease Carrie which we all know, means he likes her.

Jen McLaughlin has taken EVERYTHING that women want in a man and thrown all of the character traits together to make the main character – Finn, which by the way is a cute name considering he surfs.  Yes, ladies and gentleman I have been completely manipulated by the writer and you know what?

I DON’T CARE.

I don’t care that Jen has plucked the perfect guy right of my head and materialised him on the page because I loved every minute of it.   I loved the characters, I adored the situation of Finn being undercover and the chemistry between Carrie and Finn was sizzling.

Out of Line tells the story of Carrie Wallington, a freshman in college who has gotten out from under the watchful gaze of her father, who happens to be a senator.  All her life she’s had to put up with bodyguards and the like but now she’s at college, she is finally free.  Or so she thinks.  Enter Finn, just a guy she met on the beach outside of a frat party.  There’s an instant attraction there and Carrie surprises him more than he thought she ever would.  She’s not the average college student – she’s a bit of a goody goody but she’s kind and generous and helps out at the soup kitchen at the weekend.  Finn tries to fight his growing attraction towards her because he REALLY shouldn’t get involved but can he hold out?  Crossing the line would cost him everything.

Out of Line is a contemporary New Adult romance that will grab hold of you and not let you go until you’ve finished the book.  I should know, I blew off all my morning chores to stay in bed and finish reading.  I know a lot of people aren’t that big on cliffhangers and my take on it would be that there wasn’t a cliffhanger as such, just an introduction to the next book in the series and the suggestion of conflict to come.  There’s no story without a bit of conflict, right?!

I’m looking forward to book two because I want to see some consequences, dammit and that’s all I’m going to say about that.  Let’s just say that there is a lot more of this story to be rolled out and I can’t wait to sit back and watch it all unfurl.

Out of Line is well written with a decent plot and characters to swoon over.  Now if I could just meet Finn in real life, I’d be a VERY happy girl.

Out of Line was published on 4th September, 2013.  To find out more about Jen McLaughlin and her books, please click here to visit her website.

Letterbox Love (#71)

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!)

Apologies for the absence of this post last week but I went on holiday and didn't have time to put up a notice telling you this!  As a result, this will be a bit of a bumper edition.

Review Books

  Teardrop by Lauren Kate

This is a UK hardback and finished copy of the book.  I've heard good things about the book and am looking forward to getting stuck in. 

Panic by Lauren Oliver

I'm so excited to get this book as I didn't know it was coming and I'm so curious to read it.  I love Lauren Oliver's writing and I may have to pick this up next. 

The Visitors by Rebecca Mascull (Unsolicited) 

This is set in Victorian England on a farm and is about a deaf, blind girl who cannot speak.  I think it sounds so interesting and reminds me a little of the movie THE OTHERS.

The Trap by Andrew Fukuda

I'm a little behind with this series but I loved the first book and am definitely curious to know where the story is going.

Endless Knight by Kresley Cole

I've heard such mixed reviews about this series, it seems like you either love it or hate it.  I still haven't jumped in yet but I definitely want to.  From the covers, I can't work out when it's set though.  From the description, I'm guessing modern day but the covers tell me different.  Oh, well.

Rags & Bones edited by Melissa Marr and Tim Pratt (Unsolicited)

This is actually a collection of stories from different writers including Neil Gaiman, Kami Garcia, Carrie Ryan, Holly black etc.  Apparently, the authors are re imagining their favourite classic stories which sounds interesting. 

Possession by J.R. Ward (Unsolicited)

I think this is the fifth book in a series I haven't read.  I've heard really good things about J.R. Ward but I'm not about to go and buy all her books I'm afraid as I can't afford it!

The Secrets of Life and Death by Rebecca Alexander (Unsolicited)

This one sounds interesting and is a tale of alchemy and murder.  I think it will be slightly out of my comfort zone but it's probably worth giving a go.

Kinked by Thea Harrison (Unsolicited)
So apparently, this is book six in a series I've never read.  One for the library, I'm afraid.   Thank You Publishers!!!!!  

 Books Bought

Perfect Ruin by Lauren Destefano

I almost forgot to pre-order this one and then I realised my mistake.  I love Lauren's writing and I'm absolutely fascinated with the concept behind the story.  Looking forward to reading this and just in case you're wondering, this is the US hardback as I prefer the cover and it will match my other Lauren Destefano hardbacks :) 

E Books

American Girl on Saturn by Nikki Saturn (Bought)
This book has had some really good reviews on Goodreads and sounds quite cute.  A boyband being hidden in a teenage girl's house, oh and throw in a futuristic off planet theme just to make it more interesting.  I think it will be a fun read. 

Element: Part 1 by C.M. Deporto (Free)
This is a New Adult romance and one that sounds interesting so I'll give it a go. 

Mirage by Ashley Suzanne (Free)
This is another New Adult romance and the perfect Summer read (bear with me, I know Summer is pretty much over now).  I've seen some mixed reviews for it but someone I trust told me they loved it and so I'm willing to give it a go. 

Ignite by Kaitlyn Davis (Free)
So this sounds like a bit of a Twilight re-write but I'm still willing to give it a go and judge it on its own merits.  

Fireblood by Trisha Wolfe (Netgalley - For Review)
I've been waiting for this book for so long that I'd forgotten what the story was about in the first place LOL.  You know why I'm excited though? Because bethrothals to a Prince always hook me in.  Excited to read this one.

Stir Me Up by Sabrina Elkins (Netgalley - For Review)
This is a New Adult title from HarlequinTeen and features an ex marine recovering from his injuries and a girl who is learning to be a chef.  I'm curious to find out how their paths will cross and it has an ex marine so I'm sold already.

The Mad Scientist's Daughter by Cassandra Rose Clarke (Netgalley - For Review)
I think this one sounds so interesting and has me thinking that it's basically Frankenstein meets iRobot.  I'm going to read this when I'm romanced out.

Playing Dirty by Jennifer Echols (Netgalley - For Review)
You must know by now how much I love Jennifer Echols' books, so much so, that I don't even have to know what the book is about to know that I have to read it.  Therefore, I have no idea what this is about but I don't care.  It's Jennifer Echols.

Some Kind of Wonderful by Beth Ciotta (Netgalley - For Review)
This is a Christmas novella and sounds like a really cute read.  I'm going to read this one closer to the holiday season.

Pushed by Corrine Jackson (Netgalley - For Review)
I LOVED Touched and so I'm extremely eager to read the sequel.  The only problem being, I've forgotten a lot about the first book so I might just have to re-read it. It will be worth it though.

The Edge of Always by J.A. Redmerski (Netgalley - For Review) 
I've actually just finished reading this as I enjoyed the first book so much.  Review to come.  


So, it may seem like a lot but this is two weeks' worth and I've been REALLY GOOD with not one clicking lately.  Of course my wishlist is ever growing but whatever.  Recently I read The World After by Susan Ee (I took it on holiday with me and man is it a big book!), The Edge of Always by J.A. Redmerski and Out of Line by Jen McLaughlin.  I'm not sure what to read next but I'm torn between Teardrop by Lauren Kate, Panic by Lauren Oliver and Perfect Ruin by Lauren Destefano.  Apparently, it's a fight amongst the Lauren's ;)  What are you reading right now?  As always, I hope you had a great week for books and please share your links below.

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 The One by Kiera Cass. Here's the synopsis:

The Selection changed the lives of thirty-five girls forever. And now, the time has come for one winner to be chosen.

America never dreamed she would find herself anywhere close to the crown—or to Prince Maxon's heart. But as the competition approaches its end and the threats outside the palace walls grow more vicious, America realizes just how much she stands to lose—and how hard she'll have to fight for the future she wants.

From the very first page of The Selection, this #1 New York Times bestselling series has captured readers' hearts and swept them away on a captivating journey... Now, in The One, Kiera Cass delivers a satisfying and unforgettable conclusion that will keep readers sighing over this electrifying fairy-tale long after the final page is turned.

 

I remember a time when readers were asked to speculate on what colour dress America would wear on the cover of the final book and my immediate answer was white, as in a wedding dress.  Well, I think I might be right and just like all the other books in this series, I LOVE LOVE LOVE the cover.  I'm a massive fan of this series and when I tell you I cannot wait to get my hands on this book, I'm totally not joking.  I would drop everything to read this as I'm so invested in the characters and I NEED to know what happens.  I can't call this one so I'm desperate to have this book in my hands but we've got a bit of a wait until publication I'm afraid and I don't know how I'm going to hold out. 

The One is published on 6th May, 2013 in the US and 5th June, 2013 in the UK.

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 Ignite Me by Tahereh Mafi. Here's the synopsis:

The heart-stopping conclusion to the New York Times bestselling Shatter Me series, which Ransom Riggs, bestselling author of Miss Peregrine's Home for Peculiar Children, called "a thrilling, high-stakes saga of self-discovery and forbidden love".

Juliette now knows she may be the only one who can stop the Reestablishment. But to take them down, she'll need the help of the one person she never thought she could trust: Warner. And as they work together, Juliette will discover that everything she thought she knew-about Warner, her abilities, and even Adam - was wrong.

In Shatter Me, Tahereh Mafi created a captivating and original story that combined the best of dystopian and paranormal and was praised by Publishers Weekly as "a gripping read from an author who's not afraid to take risks." 

The sequel, Unravel Me, blew readers away with heart-racing twists and turns, and New York Times bestselling author Kami Garcia said it was "dangerous, sexy, romantic, and intense." 

Now this final book brings the series to a shocking and climactic end.

The fangirl in me wants to scream "OMG, OMG, OMG" but I'm going to try and remain calm.  Tahereh is one of my favourite YA authors and I'm not kidding when I tell you that I would pre-order any book she wrote.  I'm a HUGE FAN of this series and I'll always remember being scared that it would turn into the X Men.  Oh, how wrong I was.  I cannot wait to read this but I will definitely make sure I read it slowly and savour every minute as this is the last in the series.  It won't stop me trying to convince her to write a Warner spin off though ;) My love for Warner knows no bounds. 

Pre - ordered already and I'm ready for it.  I've got several months to go yet though.

Ignite Me is published on 4th February, 2014 and whilst UK publishers have not yet realised how awesome this series is yet (despite me telling them) you will be able to get the book through all online sellers.  I imagine that once the UK does wake up to this series, they will marvel in their own discovery whilst I scream at the top of my lungs that I've been trying to tell them FOR FOREVER.

The Killing Woods Blog Tour

Emily’s dad is accused of murdering a teenage girl. Emily is sure he is innocent, but what happened that night in the woods behind their house where she used to play as a child? Determined to find out, she seeks out Damon Hillary the enigmatic boyfriend of the murdered girl. He also knows these woods. Maybe they could help each other. But he’s got secrets of his own about games that are played in the dark.

A new psychological thriller from the award-winning and bestselling author of STOLEN and FLYAWAY.

I am delighted to be taking part in the blog tour for The Killing Woods by Lucy Christopher, best selling author of Stolen and today on the blog, she is talking about the importance of music when writing.  Over to Lucy...

Like many authors I know, I write to music. What’s more, I create soundtracks to write to.  I choose songs that take me to the right emotional place to enable me to write certain scenes.  Now, looking back at these songs, I see scenes in my novels unfolding. Music helps me to feel, while also helping my mind to open up creatively.  Here are some of the most important songs that I have written to during the process of writing my three novels:

1).  I See Monsters – Ryan Adams

I listened to this song a lot when I wrote Stolen.  I love the desperation in its lyrics and sliding notes, I like its sparse country feel.  This song helped me particularly when I was writing the scene where Ty wakes up screaming in the middle of the night and Gemma comes in to comfort him.  Like Ryan Adams, Ty sees monsters.


2). Strange and Beautiful (I’ll put a spell on you) – Aqualung

This is another Stolen song.  Right from its first lines, it’s pretty obvious why – I’ve been watching your world from a far, I’ve been trying to be where you are.  To me, this song sums up the act of Ty kidnapping Gemma, providing some of his emotional reasoning behind why he does this.  Interesting fact: other YA author (and friend of mine!) C J Skuse reminded me of how relevant this song could be to the narrative arc of Stolen.


3). Bird Girl – Anthony and the Johnsons

If you’ve read Flyaway, you’ll know straight away which of my novels this song refers to!  Once again, the lyrics of this song are pretty perfect for summing up the emotional heart, or premise, of this novel: I’m a bird girl …I’ve been searching for my wings some time … bird girls can fly …
I also absolutely love the souring cadences in this song – the voice, violins and piano all combine together to create a real sense of uplifting beauty.  For me, this song reminds me of Isla dreaming about flying with her handmade wings. 


4). Hoppipolla – Sigur Ros

I listened to this song on repeat while I wrote Flyaway.  Near the novel’s final deadline, I once edited through the night with Sigur Ros’s amazing album Takk (from where this song is from) on repeat. I must have listened to it about thirty or forty times: it never lost its power. This song is the ultimate song for thinking about uplifting and souring through the sky. It is the perfect song for imagining beautiful white whooper swans taking off for migration.  I find this song so powerful and beautiful, it even makes me cry (at weak moments!)


5). It Wasn’t Me, It Was the Moon – Quiet Marauder

I really struggled with writing The Killing Woods.  I think this is partly due to the fact that I couldn’t find the right music to write to.  I tried searching for songs about woods, about killing, about dark places, but nothing fitted quite right. In desperation I turned to one of my best friends who is a musician and asked him to write me a song.  I told him that I needed a song about teenagers in a wood at night and about dark urges coming out to play.  He wrote this song and it was like a key to unlocking my creativity. The dark, menacing male mood behind this song fitted just right with the scene I was writing at the time (concerning playing a physical army game at night in the woods!). He then went on to write six more songs to help me get the right moods to finish the novel.  And the best news of all - his band, Quiet Marauder, has just been signed to a record label!


The Killing Woods is published on 3rd October, 2013 in the UK and 7th January, 2014 in the US.  To find out more about Lucy Christopher and her books, please click here to visit her website.