Sep 13 2013

Jenny’s Blue Velvet Book Tour

Author: Bibliowhore • Discussion: 2 Comments

Synopsis:
Jenny’s stuck.

She’s tried just about every occupation she can think of and will be digging out of student debt for a very long time, but has nothing to show for it. Her everyday routine feels like a prison. And her marriage? Well, let’s just say it’s been a little one-sided lately and the money she threw down on the toys from Lover’s Erotic Store was well worth it and then some.

Jenny decides her next big step is to become a romance writer. Romance books are flying off the virtual shelves, after all. This will be her big break, her escape from the prison, and a way to freedom. Self-publishing is all the rage these days. She’ll be a best seller in no time.

When Jenny makes friends with a woman named Cassandra from the gym, she instantly decides that her new friend will make a perfect main character in her upcoming book. After the first chapter, real life begins to resemble the fiction she’s writing. Her friendship blossoms, sex with her husband turns into a daily feast, and her job gets more interesting with each chapter written.

Out of the blue, a person who is a close friend with her husband and who is dating Cassandra disappears. As the mystery behind the missing person unfolds, Jenny wonders if she might be responsible for his possible death. And if she is, what will be the consequence? What has this writing business gotten her into?

JENNY’S BLUE VELVET is a dark, humorous, romantic thriller for adults only

*This book was an ARC provided to me for free in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts and comments are my own.*

My Review

Jenny’s Blue Velvet is an incredibly interesting, incredibly brilliant novella. It begins with the story of Jenny and her many hats…Jenny knows one thing for sure, she isn’t happy with her mundane life. She decides she wants to work towards publishing a romance novel. As the story progresses her novel takes a dark turn and becomes more of a romantic suspense but when Jenny’s life begins to mirror that of her novel — the shocking truth begins to unravel. I won’t waste time repeating the synopsis but I will say this book is seriously incredible.

The problem with me writing a review for this book is anything I say will probably give away too much. This book is a serious mind-fuck! I had to go back and re-read things because I was so surprised that I couldn’t believe I’d actually read correctly. You are left with a few WTF and OMG moments. You will likely flip back a few pages to ensure you too didn’t miss something. I was surprised and definitely had a couple of jaw-dropping moments especially towards the end. This is a pretty quick read and probably one of the most unique concepts I’ve ever read in a book. It definitely deviates from the norm. If you have a love for romance, suspense and dark, witty books, this is the perfect read! I actually found myself wishing this was a full length novel…maybe this won’t be the last of Jenny.

*This book was an ARC provided to me for free in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts and comments are my own.*

About the Author – Angela Carlie

I’ve lived in the state of Washington my entire life. Sure, it rains a lot, but that’s what makes it so beautiful here. I’d like to say it’s the most beautiful place on the planet, but I have yet to travel the world. Someday I’ll know for sure.

I write fiction involving young people. Mainstream publishing would label my writing as YA or middle grade. Since I’m an indie author, I can skip over the labels and tell you that each one of my stories is unique, can be read and enjoyed by all ages, and almost always has a young person as the protagonist. Authors write what they know and I don’t know old yet. I may someday write about older people, but that’s so far in the future that I can’t see it yet.

Blog | Goodreads | Facebook | Twitter | Smashwords

Sep 11 2013

Don’t Make Me Beautiful Blog Tour & Review

Author: Bibliowhore • Discussion: 6 Comments

Synopsis

A ROMANTIC SUSPENSE NOVEL.

No one knew a woman lived there or that she even existed. A monster, living in darkness…

At twenty-six, Nicole doesn’t even look human anymore. The beast made sure of that. So she hides. A monster consigned to a life of fear and solitude. This is all she deserves, she is quite sure of that.
And then one day out of the blue, the autographed baseball caught by Brian Jensen at the latest Marlins game enters her prison and manages to turn her world completely upside down.
Temptation comes in the form of pity at first, and then perhaps something more.
Does she dare to believe the things she’s told, that this is not the life she was meant to live? That being a monster is not her forever-fate? And will she be willing to risk everything, to reach out and accept the helping hands around her? She knows only too well that hands can hurt. Finding out whether they can also heal is a risky proposition, especially when the beast is still out there. Looking for her.

**This story was inspired by true events. If you liked the movie “Sleeping With the Enemy”, then you might like this story too. CONTENT WARNING: Violence, foul language, and adult situations. Intended for mature readers 17+**

Don’t Make Me Beautiful Book Review

This book is scary. I don’t mean that in a bad way. It’s scary because it is such a real and normal part of what occurs in society, so frequently, that people turn a blind eye to just how awful some people have it. Domestic abuse/abuse is a very serious and very real problem for men, women and children in our society. This book sheds light on a brutal but harsh reality for some. This book took a toll on me emotionally since I have worked closely with people who have had similar experiences. Reading this book brought a lot of memories to the surface. Some harsh realities and even a sense of pride in those who fight back, rebuild and reclaim their lives. For some that never comes but for those who get there it is a monumental achievement. I was an advocate for survivors such as Nicole so I was able to read this book free of judgment, something that doesn’t come easy for most. Experiences like Nicole were more extreme than most but there are so many that deal with abuse like this. It’s not as simple as it looks to leave and it is usually something that someone has experienced over the course of many years which allows them to continue on as though this were life. Abuse of this magnitude is not easy to endure. Oftentimes people are too quick to judge without knowing the entire story so when I read this book. I sincerely read it. I looked past the preconceived notions and threw out the judgment and read the story of a woman who was badly broken but tried to survive.

For many people, it’s hard to understand the reasons why someone would remain in an abusive environment/household. The problem is, most times these survivors are doing exactly that – trying to survive. In many ways Nicole was a survivor, she had a lot of bad things happen to her at a young age. She was nineteen when she met John and he promised her the world. He tore her down and programmed her to think in a manner that suited him. He kept her prisoner and made her believe herself so ugly and worthless that no one would care if she lived or died. The mentality of the abuser is always one of control. John wanted control and he only wanted to possess Nicole as an object, he never wanted to love her or be loved. People like John are incapable of such emotions. It’s about power and control, not love.

I really fell in love with this book. The author states it was inspired by a true story and the fact is, this happens all too often and not enough people are voicing these problems. She took something that I see as controversial and heart wrenching and found the beauty in the beast. I loved that she was able to paint a vivid and scary world yet fill it with beauty and love. It is inspiring.

So, what can I say about the book….a whole hell of a lot as I’ve made clear (see above ^ lol)

Nicole (aka Briana – you’ll need to read to learn why…hehe…I know I’m evil) has been brutalized beaten and turned into a monster. She’s permanently disfigured from years of being battered by her boyfriend John. When a baseball goes through her window and a little boy named Liam comes to reclaim it, Nicole has no idea her life is about to change. Brian, Liam’s father is a stand up man. He has integrity and teaches his son the same. When his son’s baseball crashes through the neighbor’s window, Liam is marched over to apologize while Brian, his father offers to pay. John, Nicole’s boyfriend pretends that it’s no big deal but inside he’s fuming. When the two leave, John beats Nicole senseless that night…Brian feels something is off with John and returns to John’s home in hopes of speaking with the elusive “wife.” He gets more than he bargained for and Nicole gets the break of her life…but can someone like Brian ever love someone as deformed as Nicole? Can he look past the outer appearance and see what’s inside?

The best part of this book for me is the valuable lessons it teaches the reader. Beauty truly is skin deep and someone who loves you…truly loves you will be able to look past any outward flaws and see into your heart…completely. Brian is a solid human being. He is a living, breathing example of how all humans should strive to be. He is a man of integrity and while Nicole can’t believe the reality of her situation since he entered her life, this is what and whom she truly deserves. Brian vows to do all he can to protect her and help her get her life back from the vile creature that stole it. The only problem is, will she let him?

The abuse/violence in this book is awful but it is equally beautiful in it’s romance. Brian, Nicole, Liam, Agnes and even Helen were all lovable characters. Each plays a key role in Nicole’s healing process. I highly recommend this book – especially for women. I think it is important for everyone to understand how bad it can get and how easily someone (man/woman/child) can fall prey. I give this book 5 resounding stars for it’s power and honesty. It had me hooked from start to finish!

*This book was an ARC provided to me for free in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts and comments are my own.*

About the Author

New York Times Best-Selling author Elle Casey is an American girl living in southern France with her husband, three children, and several furry creatures. She writes in a variety of genre including YA Fantasy, YA Action/Adventure, New Adult Romance, and Adult Contemporary Romance. She’s a little on the wild side, usually busy making people laugh, and always in the mood for adventure. There’s not much in this world that she loves more than reader interaction, so feel free to drop her a line.

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Aug 26 2013

Guardian (The Guardian Trilogy #1) Review

Author: Bibliowhore • Discussion: 1 Comment

Synopsis

True love never dies.
Emma Donohue begs to differ.

When a late night accident claims the love of her life, Emma secludes herself in memories of James. In his sandy brown hair and clear blue eyes. In their innocent first kiss and declarations of love. In their plans for a life together after college. But happy dreams can’t rid her of the guilt she carries. She can’t erase her actions the night he died. She can’t erase her reaction at his funeral. And she can’t erase the hollow void that fills her chest and consumes her heart.

The first time Emma hears James’ voice, she’s astounded. It sounds as if he’s standing right beside her, and she fears her shattered heart is trying to drive her mad. But, as she continues to hear the voice, she finds comfort in it. With the help of her best friend Shel and handsome newcomer Dane, she tries to move forward and start living again.

Until the voice in her head turns out to be more. So much more.

You know what they say.
True love never dies.

This book contains moderate language/mild innuendo.
Guardian is the first story in The Guardian Trilogy.

*The second novel, Allegiant, is complete and due to be published in the fall of 2013.*

Review

Where do I begin? This story really got to me. The loss, the love, the struggles.
This was a beautifully penned beginning to what I can only imagine will be an outstanding trilogy.

Sara Mack creates a vivid world filled with love, loss and the void one feels in their struggle to move forward. Emma Donohue has experienced a world of pain. Her world is shattered when she loses the only man she’s ever loved, James.
He is her rock, her life, her love…until he’s gone. But is their love greater than even death?

James loves Emma — “until the end of forever.” After he tragically dies, Emma relives many of their memories. Oftentimes, she hears James’ voice but somehow it comforts her. She wishes for more of those moments and when they come, she clings to them with every fiber of her being. She wants more than anything to be with him again…

Enter Dane, handsome, rich and available….oh right, and not so dead. Emma and Dane grow close and their friendship reaches a crossroads when Dane risks his heart in hopes that Emma is ready to take a leap with him. Even after all she’s been through, he sticks by her and patiently waits hoping she’ll let him in as more than a friend.
Although James is dead, Emma battles with her feelings and the guilt eats away at her.

My issue with this book… plain and simple…

IT ENDED!

It ended and my jaw dropped.
Seriously Sara Mack is evil! She builds up this fabulous story only to leave you in utter suspense!
Yeah Sara, I said it! LOL

I was left wondering what in the hell will I do until Allegiant releases????!!!!

I fell in love with James, Dane and Emma. Emma will have quite a few decisions to make and I suspect this is just the beginning! I can’t even decide which guy I love more and that worries me because this trilogy could go either way and I don’t know that I could ever hate either of the paths! I am seriously stuck trying to figure out which team to root for! Hopefully Allegiant reveals some of my suspicions.

I HIGHLY recommend this book for any New Adult/Paranormal Romance fan. It is an absolutely beautiful story and will have you hooked.

*This book was provided to me for free in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts and comments are my own.*

Buy Guardian for Kindle | Nook | Smashwords

Meet Emma

Name: Emma Lynn Donohue

Birthday: August 30, 1990

Parents: Dale and Marlene

Siblings: one older brother, Mike

College: Western Michigan University

Major: Business Management

Hobbies: Reading, homework, avoiding depression

Favorite teams/sports: Are you kidding me? None. Well, it used to be the FSU Bulldogs hockey team.

Favorite personality trait: Ha! Right now I’m not too happy with myself after what happened with Dane.

Least favorite personality trait: Feeling guilty 24/7

Meet James

Name: James Henderson Davis

Birthday: June 11, 1990

Parents: Eric and Carol

Siblings: None

College: Ferris State University (one year), Western Michigan University

Major: Business Management

Hobbies: Up until a few months ago it was club hockey

Favorite teams/sports: Hockey and football. Teams would be the Wings, the FSU Bulldogs, and mainly college ball.

Favorite personality trait: I’m pretty protective.

Least favorite personality trait: Is being dead a personality trait?

Meet Dane

Name: Dane Ryan Walker

Born: October 6, 1987

Parents: Charles and Lily (stepmom) Walker

Siblings: None

College: Wayne State University

Major: Fine Arts, Graphic Design

Hobbies: Trying to convince a certain girl that she’s in love with me. Oh, and creating art that doesn’t involve a computer. I also make the occasional trip to the golf course (if Matt twists my arm) and the gym.

Favorite teams/sports: Detroit Lions (yeah, I know), and the Tigers. I ran cross country in high school.

Favorite personality trait: I’m passionate.

Least favorite personality trait: Sometimes I have a one-track mind and it’s hard to concentrate on anything else.

About the author

Sara Mack is a Michigan native who grew up with her nose in books. She is a wife and a hockey mom on top of being trapped in a windowless office forty hours a week. Her spare time is spent one-clicking on Amazon and devouring books on her Kindle, cleaning up after her kids and two elderly cats, attempting to keep her flower garden alive, and, of course, writing. She has an unnatural affinity for dark chocolate, iced tea, and bacon. Guardian is her debut novel.

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Aug 15 2013

Unteachable Blog Tour, Review & Giveaway

Author: Bibliowhore • Discussion: 3 Comments

Synopsis

This novel contains graphic sexual content and strong language. It is intended for mature readers.

I met him at a carnival, of all corny places. The summer I turned eighteen, in that chaos of neon lights and cheap thrills, I met a man so sweet, so beautiful, he seemed to come from another world. We had one night: intense, scary, real. Then I ran, like I always do. Because I didn’t want to be abandoned again.

But I couldn’t run far enough.

I knew him as Evan that night. When I walked into his classroom, he became Mr. Wilke.

My teacher.

I don’t know if what we’re doing is wrong. The law says one thing; my heart says screw the law. I can’t let him lose his job. And I can’t lose him.

In the movies, this would have a happy ending. I grow up. I love, I lose, I learn. And I move on. But this is life, and there’s no script. You make it up as you go along.

And you don’t pray for a happy ending. You pray for it to never end.

My Thoughts

This story will suck you in from the very first page and grip you by your throat until the very end! I could not put it down. I fell hard and easily in love with these characters. Maise O’Malley, the protagonist, is a girl who is living a pretty fucked up existence. Her mom is a drug addict and a dealer, her dad is nonexistent and she wants, no she needs to find an out. She has a plan, one that will get her far away but she never imagines her world will be turned upside down.

Maise has played grown up for so long it’s become second nature. Everything about her screams adult. Her thoughts, her feelings even her choice in men. At eighteen, Maise thinks she has it all figured out, she’s experienced more in her short life than most adults have endured in a lifetime. It isn’t until a chance encounter with a mysterious man that her world forever changes.

Evan Wilke enters Maise’s world in a burst of color. The attraction is instant but there is something about this stranger, a longing she never imagined she was capable of feeling. Evan has his secrets, his demons and his past but he is drawn to her from the minute they meet. He wants to unlock the mystery that is Maise, but she knows it may be too good to be true, too good to last. Evan consumes her thoughts, she never in her wildest dreams imagines she’d be walking straight into his classroom on her first day of senior year.

There are moments where the main characters are seriously playing with fire. I was on the edge of my seat screaming at them. There is such rawness to this book. A yearning that no matter the distance or boundaries can’t be ignored. This book has it all — drama, passion, love and everything in between. You spend the entire book questioning everything you’ve ever believed was wrong but rooting that these two broken people find a way to be together because somewhere along the lines they help each other begin to live! I am still having withdrawal! This book takes you on a thrill ride you never want to end. There are moments where you will question your own views of love, happiness and what lengths you will go to be happy, to be with the one you love? How can two broken people help repair a lifetime of pain?

Leah Raeder writes beautifully. She transports you into a world where you see vivid colors. Not black, not white, not even the shades of grey in between, but a colorful lively world filled with beautiful imagery. I wanted to live in this world; she made even the most painful moments beautiful. What an incredible read! I cannot express to you how much I adore this book. I was terrified reading it. The closer I got to the ending, the more unsure I felt that this would be a HEA. I won’t speak on which direction this book takes, I will only say that this is a book that EVERY New Adult fan and EVERY Contemporary Romance fan MUST read! I give it way beyond 5 stars this book is provocative, enticing, and enlightening. Leah I eagerly await the release of your next book! You’ve made a lifelong fan…

Buy Unteachable now for Amazon Kindle | Barnes & Noble Nook | Smashwords | Kobo

*This book was an ARC provided to me for free in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts and comments are my own.

About the Author

Writes pretentiously lyrical YA and adult fiction of various genres. Loves zombies, velociraptors, and other world-ending things. Copies her bio from Twitter because she’s lazy.

Website | Facebook | Twitter | Goodreads

Giveaway

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Aug 11 2013

The Kitchen House Book Review

Author: Bibliowhore • Discussion: No Comments

Synopsis

When a white servant girl violates the order of plantation society, she unleashes a tragedy that exposes the worst and best in the people she has come to call her family. Orphaned while onboard ship from Ireland, seven-year-old Lavinia arrives on the steps of a tobacco plantation where she is to live and work with the slaves of the kitchen house. Under the care of Belle, the master’s illegitimate daughter, Lavinia becomes deeply bonded to her adopted family, though she is set apart from them by her white skin.

Eventually, Lavinia is accepted into the world of the big house, where the master is absent and the mistress battles opium addiction. Lavinia finds herself perilously straddling two very different worlds. When she is forced to make a choice, loyalties are brought into question, dangerous truths are laid bare, and lives are put at risk.

My Thoughts

I read this book a few months ago and I loved it. It is a truly timeless masterpiece. The stories of Belle and Lavinia are reminiscent of Alice Walker’s The Color Purple. Deeply moving and intense.

This was an extremely powerful book. If you’re looking for historical accuracy reign in those claws, this is a novel, and while there are many accurate details concerning slavery and indentured servitude, don’t over analyze this book. I read a few reviews that bashed the book based on its so called historical accuracy. Let’s remember, this is a work of fiction, not a history book. With that said, it is an excellent work of fiction, especially for a debut novel.

The Kitchen House does a magnificent job of exploring families and what family truly means. The story is told from both Belle, a slave, and Lavinia, an Irish indentured servant’s POV. Belle becomes “the mother figure” to Lavinia after she is brought to the plantation. It is mostly told through the naive eyes of Lavinia who doesn’t even realize who she is. She doesn’t fully comprehend slavery nor her position in this society. In fact, she doesn’t recall many moments of her youth prior to her arrival on the plantation. With her arrival they become an unconventional family. The slaves bring Lavinia into their fold and nurture and love her as their own but Belle keeps her at an arms length still hesitant to love and care for her.

Belle, the beloved but illegitimate daughter of the Captain (The Slave Master/Plantation Owner), is in charge of the Kitchen House. The relationship between Belle and the Captain, which unbeknownst to his own wife is one of a father and daughter, but gives her cause to speculate an affair. Her father loves her fiercely and it is obvious in all his actions but his lack of communication with his wife and family regarding his close relationship with Belle is a secret that causes a domino effect for years to come.

And yes, this book does have a few romantic trysts but the story is also laced with some pretty heavy situations that may make your stomach turn.

I would’ve loved to read this book from a few different character perspectives but Belle and Lavinia were an integral part of this family and their stories were meant to be told. This is a great read. I highly recommend this book to fans of historical fiction or cultural pieces. I rated this book 4/5 stars.

Purchase The Kitchen House for Kindle | Paperback

Author Links

Website | Goodreads | Facebook (The Kitchen House Fan Page)

Aug 09 2013

Mandatory Release Book Tour, Review & Giveaway

Author: Bibliowhore • Discussion: 2 Comments

Synopsis

With appeal for fans of Jonathan Tropper, Tom Perrotta, and Laurie Notaro, this snarky mashup of Girls and Oz is so painfully honest you might think you’re reading a memoir—except the author isn’t a smart-ass guy in a wheelchair who works in a prison.

Recently paralyzed in a car accident, thirty-year-old Graham Finch spends his days trying to rehabilitate a caseload of unruly inmates and his nights on one bad date after another, attempting to rehabilitate his heart—until his high school crush Drew Daniels walks through the prison gates one hot summer morning. On the run from a painful past that’s nearly crushed her faith in love, Drew is a new teacher at Lakeside Correctional. Graham, smitten all over again, tries to redirect his unrequited feelings. But when your heart keeps looking back, it’s not easy to turn it forward.

Amidst escalating violence at work, Drew is forced to confront her secrets, find a way to forgive old sins, and learn how to listen to her heart and her head when it comes to men. Graham must also learn to make peace with his own past. Together they realize that if you’re going to save yourself, sometimes the best way to do it is by saving someone else first. If only finding their way to one another was easier than working with convicted felons.

Loaded with twisted humor and pathos, Mandatory Release is a darkly comic, unexpectedly sexy love story about broken people putting themselves back together. People who learn that no matter what you lock up—a person, a secret, or your heart—sooner or later, everything must be released.

OR, in 25 words: Lad lit meets chick lit in this dark comedy about broken people who work in a dangerous place, finding hope where they least expect it.

My Thoughts

This was the first book I’ve read by Jess Riley and I fell in LOVE with this novel. She has just gained a faithful fan! I don’t know how to adequately describe my feelings after reading this book but I will try my best…

Graham and Drew were friends in high school. Back then, Graham had it bad for Drew but she was always unavailable. With Drew’s return and her new job in such close proximity to Graham’s his old feelings resurface. Can Drew look past the man in the wheelchair, and remember the man before the injury? The one who makes her laugh, the one she feels utterly and completely comfortable with, the one she can talk to, could he be more than a friend?

This book is filled with witty and playful banter, comical inner monologues and general humor. Drew and Graham have some hilarious moments but it never distracts the reader from the intensity of the novel. The book touches on some pretty heavy topics but the focus remains primarily on how these two broken people help each other find their way back to happiness and open their hearts to the possibility of more…

Prison.

A topic not usually associated with a novel of this caliber. (Romance/Contemporary Romance) I felt that the author delivered exceptionally well given the topic. Her accurate descriptions/experiences bring you into a world that makes you question everything you’ve ever thought or experienced. How easily could you end up on the opposite side of the law? To what extent would you feel compassion towards inmates like those described in this book? Were your initial views skewed? What constitutes a criminal? I have my own views on this topic but I found myself pondering some of these questions. When an author can make me think that much while still enjoying a novel, I’d say mission accomplished!

There were times when I felt I had time warped to my early existence, with cleverly crafted reminders of the 80s and 90s…like Lisa Frank Trapper Keepers, Punky Brewster and honorable mention of bands/artists that didn’t suck! I highly recommend this book for everyone. It touches upon some heavy issues while bringing you back to earth reminding you of simple things we take for granted. This is an edgy, heartfelt romance. I highly recommend…will be added to my must read list!

Buy Mandatory Release for Kindle | Paperback

*This book was an ARC provided to me for free in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts and comments are my own.*

Happy Reading!

About the Author

Jess Riley’s experiences teaching in a medium-security prison inspired the novel Mandatory Release. Her debut novel (Driving Sideways, now in its fourth printing) was published by Random House in 2008. She lives in Oshkosh, Wisconsin with her husband and nutty Cairn Terrier in a 130-year-old money pit farmhouse. When she’s not writing novels, she’s a Grant Writer for school districts nationwide.

Blog | Facebook | Twitter | Goodreads

Tour Giveaway:

Up for Grabs…

A chance to win one of the following:

(2) Print Copies of Mandatory Release – US/Canada

(5) eBook Copies of Mandatory Release – International

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Aug 06 2013

My (Current) Top Ten Fictional Boyfriends

Author: Bibliowhore • Discussion: 8 Comments

Bookwhoredom isn’t easy but someone’s got to do it. How could I live up to my name if I didn’t have a series of book boys I’m swooning over all at once. Here’s a list of fictional boyfriends I’m currently obsessed with…they aren’t long winded descriptions of the book just blurbs describing my undying devotion to these fab men! Christian Grey isn’t on this list BUT this is a CURRENT list…I will undeniably find my way back to him! LOL.

10. Jessie Ward – This Man Trilogy (Jodi Ellen Malpas)

Talk about swoon worthy alpha males. I love love love Jessie Ward he is my number 10 pick…I know, I know #10 seems far off but he was a bit too possessive for my liking. I love him but let’s face it he had some batshit crazy moments. HA!

This Man | Beneath This Man | This Man Confessed

9. Tristan Michaels – Finding Love’s Wings (Zoey Derrick)

Hot movie star…um need I say more? Oh wait, Hot tattooed (and pierced) movie star! Yes, please! ::Fans self:: excuse me while I swoon some more. Tristan Michaels is just hot! Lock me away in a hotel room on a remote island with him any day! Must read book with a must have book boyfriend!

Finding Love’s Wings

8. Matt Watkins – Flat Out Love (Jessica Park)

Witty, lovable Matt. One of my must read picks is Flat-Out Love and I swear this guy had me swooning from the start. Nerdy and adventurous what a combo. He’s the ultimate book boyfriend.

Flat-Out Love | Flat-Out Matt

7. Ryan Christensen – The Love Series (Tina Reber)

Another movie star! Hello…notice a pattern…I’m kind of digging the rockstar/movie star romance. Hollywood IT man Ryan Christensen is hot let’s face it, the man is sex on a stick but he doesn’t want all the glitz and glamour. He wants the girl…loyal, humble and absolutely swoon worthy…what’s not to love?

Love Unscripted | Love Unrehearsed

6. Kellan Kyle – Thoughtless Trilogy (S.C. Stephens)

ROCKSTAR Romance! Who doesn’t love them? Kellan Kyle you had me swooning from the beginning and I am still reeling from that experience. I would’ve dropped my man for you too…ok maybe not, but I’d consider it! hehe 😀

Thoughtless | Effortless | Reckless

5. Andrew Parrish – The Edge of Never (J.A. Redmerski)

I love, love, love Andrew Parrish. If I had to take a road trip across the country with a random stranger…he’d be my guy! Seriously though, what’s not to love…he is smoldering hot and sweet as candy. This is the guy you take to bed that will NEVER disappoint, the one you introduce to your parents and marry! The one you want to spend every waking moment with because he’s so flipping perfect! Oh and did I mention he’s also tattooed…I think I’m in heaven! Someone pinch me!

The Edge of Never | The Edge of Always

4. David Ferris – Lick (Stage Dive #1) (Kylie Scott)

Oh dear God, lock me in a room with David Ferris. Accidentally marry me off to him…I promise I’ll never leave! Another ROCKSTAR romance to die for. Hot is not the word for David Ferris…jeez the things I’ve mentally done with him! HA!

Lick (Stage Dive #1)

3. Dean Holder – Hopeless/Losing Hope & Will Cooper – Slammed Trilogy (Colleen Hoover)

Need I say more.

Colleen Hoover creates amazing characters who you fall in love with regardless of gender but Holder, sigh, Holder is something special. And I had to include Will from the Slammed trilogy because, well, I just love him, but since I wanted to be fair to other authors I love. CoHo gets a pass and you get a two-for! Lol.

Hopeless | Losing Hope

Slammed | Point of Retreat | This Girl

2. Rush Finlay – Too Far Series (Abbi Glines)

Rush, I love you. Marry me! The End.

Fallen Too Far | Never Too Far | Forever Too Far

1. Fitzwilliam Darcy – Pride and Prejudice (Jane Austen)

Need I say more? Classic and timeless! My all time favorite book boyfriend. He will always be #1. I’d give up my bookwhoring for him. LOL. Mr. Darcy, the elusive Mr. Darcy. I love this book I’ve read it more time than I’m willing to admit and have watched every movie, series or show based on the book. My all time favorite Darcy portrayal is Colin Firth! Best adaptation I’ve seen! And guess what, I might leave my man for Darcy…in fact, I think I have. Quite a few times…while he was present…but shhhhhh don’t tell him!

Pride and Prejudice – there are no excuses for not reading this book, the download is FREE!!!

If you haven’t read any of the books I highly recommend them. Not just because they’re awesome but because the “eye candy,” come on folks you’re readers use your imagination. Seriously though, check these books out. You won’t be disappointed!

Aug 05 2013

Dead and Missing (Ripsters #2) Blog Tour

Author: Bibliowhore • Discussion: 3 Comments

Date with the Dead (Ripsters #1)

Synopsis

Sixteen-year-old Jolie Livingston’s closest and only friend Drew is this really hot dead guy, and it bites that the self-absorbed princesses at school cannot even see him. That’s right she can communicate with the dead. It’s the living she has trouble with. She and her mom inherited this awesome crib in Plymouth, MA. It’s quite a step-up from the homeless shelter in New Orleans, but there’s a catch. They can’t afford the past due mortgage, so Jolie’s working on that.

She starts a ghost hunting business called Ripsters. Somehow she’s managed to recruit Brittany, a glamour SAP smothered in pink, and a techie allergic to ghosts. Brit actually thinks he resembles the R&B singer Chris Brown. All that pink has clouded her vision. They both have special talents Jolie’s hoping will be useful to their venture. Right now, they’re working for a family in need of major therapy due to a dead guy with a hole in his head.

What can I say? I love Young Adult books and I’ve somehow neglected them lately. I’ve been on such a New Adult kick that I almost forgot how much I love Paranormal YA books. This book had it all mystery, suspense, romance, action, it is a YA book that both boys and girls/men and women can equally enjoy. Though it is told entirely in Jolie Livingston’s perspective I felt the characters were engaging enough to cater to all readers. This book also has a lot of historical references which I thought was a good add in.

I love Drew. I think he was by far my favorite character. I love him so much I want him with Jolie but…he’s dead so there’s always that problem lol.

Purchase your copy of Date with the Dead for Kindle | Paperback

Synopsis

Sixteen-year-old Brittany Howland only knows one other girl, Jolie Livingston, who can communicate with the dead like herself. When Brittany takes Jolie’s haunt fishing to get him out of Jolie’s hair, he mysteriously disappears. Brittany isn’t sure how she’ll tell Jolie she lost her stupid ghost. Jolie thinks her dead best friend Drew has finally crossed over, but Brittany knows better. Just before Drew went missing, he revealed why he hasn’t hitchhiked to the afterlife, a secret Brittany swore she’d take to the grave.

My Review

Where do I begin? This is the second installment of the Ripsters series. I loved Drew in Date with the Dead so this was a bit of a bonus read for me. I’ll be completely honest. I really liked this book but it took me a few chapters to fully get into the story. It starts in Brittany’s POV initially but eventually alternates between Jolie and Brittany’s POV. While I like Brittany, she isn’t my favorite character. As I said before Drew and Jolie are. This was a great follow up to Date With The Dead. Although I took a bit longer to get into this book I will say once I continued reading I was hooked. I was on the edge of my seat until the very end! I’m already dying to read the next installment!

I have a feeling book 3 will be amazing! I have my suspicions about Drew, and if I’m right things are only going to get more interesting! Keeping my fingers crossed for that one. I strongly recommend this book for YA Paranormal fans.

What happened?
Brittany takes Drew fishing one morning to give Jolie a break. After revealing a secret to Brittany, Drew mysteriously disappears but not before he’s sworn her to secrecy. Brittany suspects someone has taken Drew but Jolie believes he may have gone into the light. Brittany struggles with keeping his secret after his disappearance knowing it could prove Drew was taken. She knows it will alter things in a dramatic way if she does in fact tell Jolie. The story primarily shadows the efforts to find Drew while also dealing with The Ripsters developing powers, demons, The Infamous Guild and a father who’s resurfaced from out of nowhere…

[youtube=http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5JSCbEKsguQ&w=560&h=315]

What I loved

Yet again, the historical references are really great, especially for younger readers.

I enjoyed this story, it is reminiscent of the Sookie Stackhouse novels but let’s just call it a tween version lol. It also reminds me of a modern day Scooby Doo and friends minus the dog lol. There is definitely romance and drama but less adult situations given the target audience. It’s an enjoyable book that I feel has enough action packed moments to appeal to young men and young women. I highly recommend following this series. I have a good feeling about this one!

What I hated

Chris, please release the next Ripsters book soon. I’m dying to know what happens!

Purchase your copy of Dead and Missing for Kindle

Tour Giveaway:

Enter for your chance to win one (1) of the following:

(3) Print Copies of Dead and Missing – US
(8) eBook Copies of Dead and Missing – International

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Chris Myers suffers from an overactive imagination. She spent her high school years writing torch songs for fantasy guys then moved onto writing thrillers and young adult. She has a real job but would love to write full time. Her books have won and placed in the finals and semifinals for several awards including Paul Gillette, Rocky Mountain Gold, and Amazon Breakthrough Novel. Chris lives in Colorado with her daughter, her better half, and BeBe, a rambunctious Bichon.

Twitter | Facebook | Website | Blog | Goodreads

Jul 23 2013

Axel (Corps Security #1) Blog Tour

Author: Bibliowhore • Discussion: No Comments

*This book is intended for a mature reading audience and isn’t suitable for younger readers. Brash language, sexual hotness, delectable alpha males, some violence and adult situations are all over this book–you have been warned! **wink**

Synopsis

Fate hasn’t always been friends with Isabelle West. In fact, fate has been a down right bitch.

Isabelle has learned the hard way how hard life can be when fate isn’t by your side. It can hand you dreams on silver platters, but it can snatch them right back and hand you nightmares. One thing Isabelle knew for sure fate was consistent with was taking away everything she ever loved.

For the last two years Isabelle has been slowly clearing the clouds of her past. Happiness is finally on the horizon. She has a thriving business, great friends, and her life back. All she has to do is jump over the last hurdle…her ex-husband.

When problems start causing her to fear her new life, and memories that are better left forgotten start rushing to the surface the last thing she needs is a ghost from her past to come knocking on her door.

Axel never thought he would look into the eyes of Isabelle West again, and he wasn’t sure he wanted to now. He’s carried his anger for so long he isn’t sure he can just turn it off, but when he is faced with protecting her and an unexpected desire to have her again, life gets a little more complicated.

How will Axel and Isabelle deal when all their cards are put on the table and everything they thought was true blows up in their faces?

There are a bit of spoilers in this review but, hardly enough to ruin the book.
I highly recommend this book. It is well written and a great summer read!

What happens?
Axel leaves for the marines a young foster kid. He and Izzy are deeply in love but tragedy pulls them apart. Even after years of missing one another and life moving on, the two have never forgotten one another or the love they shared. That tricky bitch fate brings them back together and this is where the story truly begins for me. I loved watching these two rebuild what was so long ago lost. I loved the chemistry and the heat rising from my kindle as I read. I’m still fanning myself over Axel…wooooah is all I can say.

This is a great read for those who like a good erotic romance with a HEA. There is a great story behind this and I’m guessing there will be more to tell from the looks of the title. Can we say sequel? I hope so. There are so many stories to tell I would love to hear Maddox’s story and also Dee’s story, especially what drew her away from her love interest in this book. I was eager to get that story but I’m glad there will be more. I do hope there will be more Axel and Izzy as I fell in love with these two.

What I loved?
Axel, Axel and Axel oh wait, Maddox, Beck, and let’s not forget Greg.

I could’ve done without Coop, he was a bit of a player but give me the other 4 in a sandwich…I’d eat them up!
Oh who am I kidding? I’d take Coop too!

Yummo! Lol!

This story was great because while it was sexually explicit it still had a STORY…and a good one at that. There was passion and sexual chemistry but the book also delves into the world of domestic violence/abuse and I admire Harper Sloan for taking it there. It is a subject too often forgotten and one that affects a considerate amount of women…and men! The affects of such abuse can be life or death but the emotional scars are deeply examined in this book. I appreciated that. Even if you’ve never experienced an abusive relationship, you walk away respecting someone who has survived such a horrific ordeal. You learn a lot about their struggles and the toll a relationship of that magnitude can take on the abused psychologically.

With that said…

Woah, I freakin’ loved this book. Every minute of it! Axel, omg what I would do to have Axel. He is so hot! I got frustrated with Axel and Izzy’s naivety and stubbornness but, I was completely satisfied with the direction this book took. Isabelle had a rough life. She swears fate has it out for her and after reading a couple chapters you almost start to agree. But when Axel comes bounding back into her life things get…complicated.

I was so deeply enamored with Axel and Izzy’s relationship. I wanted everything to work out, even if fate had other plans. I feel the trials and tribulations thrown their way only strengthens their union when they are finally reunited.

This story makes you believe in love. It makes you believe in lifelong, unbreakable, earth shattering love. The kind of love that can conquer all!

What I hated?
It ended. I wanted more…lol

Favorite Quotes:

It really is funny sometimes how everything comes full circle. Just when you think your life is headed in one clear cut direction, the light turns red and the turn signal comes on.”

“People say karma is a bitch but I have news for you, karma doesn’t have anything on fate when she is after blood. Not a single thing.”

“My body is telling me to start humping, my heart is telling me to run, and my mind is sitting there enjoying a cigarette as his hips start to move against me.”

“I love you, Axel Reid. I have loved you forever and I will never stop. Made for me, baby. You were made for me. Don’t ever leave me. Never again. I would rather die than be without you again.”

About the Author:

Harper lives in small town Georgia just a short drive from her hometown of Peachtree City. She (and her 3 daughters) enjoy ruling the house they dubbed ‘Estrogen Ocean’, much to her husbands chagrin. Harper has a borderline unhealthy obsession with books; you can almost ALWAYS find her with her eReader attached. She enjoys bad reality TV and cheesy romantic flicks. Her favorite kind of hero–the super alpha kind!

Harper started using writing as a way to unwind when the house went to sleep at night; and with a house full of crazy it was the perfect way to just relax. It didn’t take long before a head full of very demanding alphas would stop at nothing to have their story told.

Author Links:

Email: authorharpersloan@gmail.com

*This book was an ARC provided to me for free in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts and comments are my own.

Jul 22 2013

Love Love Book Review & Giveaway

Author: Bibliowhore • Discussion: No Comments

*This book was provided to me for free in exchange for my honest opinion. All thoughts and comments are my own.

Synopsis

Gabrielle Willis is smart. She’s funny. And oh yes, she’s a bit klutzy.

When Gabrielle left sunny California bound for the energy of Manhattan, she was willingly leaving the life she had known for the new life she would create. But was she really leaving something behind or was she running away?

On the outside, Gabrielle Willis has it all under control. A new life in Manhattan, a great roommate, and a good job. But she is haunted. Haunted by a memory she’s tried to forget and by a family who’s abandoned her. But what happens when what’s on the outside is only an illusion and in perfect contradiction to what’s buried deep within?

Enter Dane Rhodes. He’s gorgeous, smart, and sexy as hell. Just what Gabby wants, or so she thinks. But when she meets Brad Dixon, the sweet guy with the crooked smile, he begins to make her see that the very thing she is trying to run from is the very thing that just may push her to see the light.

**New Adult Contemporary Romance. Due to language & sexual content, this book is recommended for readers 17 & older**

My Thoughts:

I LOVE LOVED this book. Seriously it made my heart melt, my stomach flutter and brought a smile to my face. I fell in love quick and was heartbroken even quicker, but somehow I managed to put back the pieces of my mangled heart. Love Love is a witty, fun and sexy book. It is an appealing story that will draw you in from start to finish. It makes you want to find a love like this and hold onto it for dear life.

Gabby drove me insane. It was a roller-coaster ride dealing with her poor decision making but I love her despite it all. She is a sweet girl who goes through a lot, but man, did some of her decisions stink! Fran definitely wins the award for best supporting BFF ℓσℓ I love her and her craziness. Gabby was a phenomenal friend as well. Their friendship made me appreciate my own best friend a bit more.

I don’t want to give away too much of the love story, just know it is definitely worth the read. This book is filled with friendship, love, loss and romance. It will tug at your heartstrings. A great summer read and a fantastic book for those who have ever experienced loss or loved from the depths of their soul.

Purchase Love Love: Amazon | Amazon UK | Barnes & Noble

Giveaway:

Giveaway #1 – Signed paperback (US ONLY) and one eBook

Enter Here

Giveaway #2 – One (1) $10 Starbucks card.

Answer this question and leave your email address in order to have a chance at winning a $10 Starbucks card:

What is Gabby’s favorite type of coffee? What is your favorite?

Author Bio:
Beth Michele is a wife, a mom, an author and a lover of all things chocolate, well, anything sweet really. While stuffing chocolate in her face, she enjoys reading young adult and new adult novels furiously, and spending time with her husband and two adorable children who keep her on her painted toes. Those same children who inspire her to tell silly stories that cause hysterical giggles to tumble from their bellies. Beth is a hopeless romantic and a happily ever after fanatic who loves to write about love.

Author Links:
FACEBOOK | TWITTER | GOODREADS | WEBSITE

Jul 21 2013

Me Before You Book Review

Author: Bibliowhore • Discussion: No Comments

Synopsis

Lou Clark knows lots of things. She knows how many footsteps there are between the bus stop and home. She knows she likes working in The Buttered Bun tea shop and she knows she might not love her boyfriend Patrick.
What Lou doesn’t know is she’s about to lose her job or that knowing what’s coming is what keeps her sane.

Will Traynor knows his motorcycle accident took away his desire to live. He knows everything feels very small and rather joyless now and he knows exactly how he’s going to put a stop to that.

What Will doesn’t know is that Lou is about to burst into his world in a riot of colour. And neither of them knows they’re going to change the other for all time.

“This book was….WOW.”

That is the extent of my goodreads review. I thought I’d expand on that and discuss what I loved and disliked about this book. I actually loved everything about this book. It was powerful, emotional, deeply moving and something about it stuck with me. The love, the loss, the growth, all make this a beautiful yet complex novel. I cried like a baby but I seriously recommend the hell out of it.

This was a book club read for my friends and I. Yes, somehow between all my blog reads and life I make time for a book club haha…don’t judge me! I roped my sister into giving her input for this review. She begrudgingly agreed. LOL. These are our shared opinions…

What’s it about?

Me Before You is a tragic yet heartfelt journey of self discovery. It will most certainly make you shed a tear…or a thousand. I certainly did. My sis says, “Me too!”

Lou Clark lived a simple, run of the mill life. She is a girl who doesn’t know what she wants when the book begins. For much of the story she is still trying to figure her life out. She can’t fathom having any sort of definitive life plan. She is an eccentric girl with a very unique sense of style. This made me laugh for much of the book because her quirky sense of style was something that stuck with me. It doesn’t seem like a very important fact but when you read this story there will be moments like this that stick with you. I think you will also understand why it stuck out to me after reading.

When Will Traynor enters her life…or rather, when Lou enters Will’s life the things she accepted as the status quo she now begins to question. He makes her question her entire life, starting with the reason why she remains in a loveless relationship. He challenges her and makes her challenge herself. Will had his entire life planned out. He can’t understand how someone can live their life without a plan. Even after his life-altering accident he creates a plan; one that many disagree with but a plan nonetheless.

This oddball combination brings out the very best and worse in one another. I really liked the dynamic character development and the story overall.

I will give you one spoiler…this is not a typical love story, in fact it isn’t so much about love as it is focusing on finding your own path in life and making decisions that are right for you. This is a must read.

My rating – 5 star
My sister’s rating – 5 star

We firmly stand by our ratings and highly recommend it.

*Note – If you are a Jodi Picoult or Nicholas Sparks fan this is a book you will appreciate.

Purchase Me Before You for Kindle | Paperback

About the Author:

Website | Goodreads | Facebook | Twitter

Jul 19 2013

Finding Love’s Wings Book Review

Author: Bibliowhore • Discussion: 5 Comments

Synopsis

CAMERON ENDERS seems to have it all: a brand new condo in a city she loves, a top executive position at an international entertainment firm, an insane amount of money, and a gorgeous boyfriend. But when Cami catches the boyfriend in the act with another woman, it triggers all the anguish from years of neglect by her parents, and she realizes she never learned how to love or be loved. Cami flees to the remote tropical island of Tarah, but she can’t avoid facing her problems any longer when she meets the man of her fantasies…

TRISTAN MICHAELS, one of Hollywood’s hottest new stars, has come to Tarah to ride out a storm. His girlfriend of five years has been caught on camera cheating, and she’s determined to make Tristan stop the story from breaking.

But Tristan’s done cleaning up her messes. He needs to escape all things Hollywood for a while–and especially the firm that represents him–until the whole thing blows over. What he doesn’t count on is meeting an irresistibly beautiful woman, a woman who just so happens to be the CEO of the firm he’s trying to avoid.

Can Tristan and Cami help each other learn to trust and love again, or will their histories of betrayal tear them apart?

Omg I looooove this book. I love Tristan! I love the body art and piercings. I love the chemistry. I just love everything about it. Zoey Derrick, you have a fan! I am ready for book 2…like now!

What happened?

Cameron Enders and Tristan Michaels both are trying to flee their lives for similar reasons. They both want to clear their heads without anyone finding them. Somehow they both decide to head to the remote island of Tarah.

Tristan is trying to escape a very public scandal surrounding his ex-girlfriend Layla, while Cami is trying to move forward with her life. In the wake of her ex-boyfriend’s infidelity she’s determined to disappear for a while. She’s grown weary of meaningless relationships. She wants more out of life but is unsure that she knows the first thing about love…until she meets Tristan.

Unbeknownst to Cami, Tristan first spots her in the first class lounge at LAX and he’s instantly drawn to her tattoo. He sees the wings on her back as a sign and is determined to know who they belong to. Hoping they’re on the same flight, he carefully watches her, until he is swarmed by fans and paparazzi. He loses sight of her, but somehow they end up in the same hotel.

Tristan isn’t the only one who is smitten. Cami has known who Tristan Michaels is for years. She’s seen his face plastered on billboards and magazines and something about him has always been soothing to her. She finds comfort in his eyes before ever meeting him. She’s always felt a pull but could never describe it, then suddenly, he’s thrust into her life and they’re both falling hard and fast.

Though both have been broken down by their pasts. Somehow they find solace in one another.

What I loved?

Tristan
Cami
Tristan
Tristan
Oh wait, did I say that already?
What else, Tristan! Lol that’s not a typo just me expressing my undying love for him! He is so hot! Oh and Tyson, yeah, I like him too!

Zoey Derrick is truly gifted when it comes to her descriptive writing. The intimate encounters will make you blush! If you’re a fan of body art and piercings like I am, you will definitely appreciate this book. This book had my full attention and I finished it in less than 24 hours! The main characters were lovable and their courtship was rather sensual. This was a fun summer read.

What I hated?
Listen here Zoey, I want the next book and I want it now. lol 😉

Purchase Finding Love’s Wings for Kindle or Paperback