Aug 20 2013

Beside Your Heart Blog Tour

Author: Bibliowhore • Discussion: No Comments

Synopsis

Was he The One who got away?

Late one night, Nicki Johnson plays with emotional fire and Googles her high school love, only to find his name splashed across the British gossip columns. Back in his native England, Adam Kincaid is successful and dating a woman from an aristocratic family like his own. With a career in politics, Nicki’s no slouch, but she knows Adam is living a world away from her life.

Yet there was a time he was no farther than the next locker. Nicki will never forget their year together in high school–the year of her sister’s death, the year her mother checked out. Adam helped Nicki through suffocating grief, and she led him through coming of age. But when is a high school crush something more?

My Review

This is a heartwarming story. I really, really, enjoyed it. The story tugs at your heart. The prologue begins in present day but much of the content beyond that is what leads up to present day events.

Nicki Johnson, the protagonist, at seventeen has experienced loss beyond anything someone should experience at such a young age. Her sister is taken from her after a terrible accident. Her mother is grieving and has failed to be present mentally or physically. She copes by keeping busy but this keeps her out of the house and Nicki is uncertain how to deal with her own grief but she knows as numb as she feels she doesn’t want to live that way. Her mother isn’t a horrible person but she grieves in a way that leaves Nicki a bit neglected. It’s easy to see how difficult the loss of her sister has affected this family as a whole. Enter Adam, the hot British guy at school. He is everything Nicki knows she should stay away from, but for some reason he’s the only thing on her mind. He does all he can to get to know her better but she keeps her distance fearing she will end up hurt. Although they know of each other, their interactions were limited in the past, but this year their lockers are right next to one another. This year, she will get to know Adam better and like it or not, this will be the year she risks her heart. Her world unravels as she allows herself a chance at happiness…but can it last?

Adam Kincaid steps into Nicki’s life in High School but thoughts of him have remained with her into her adult life. She opens up and bares everything to him. She allows him into her thoughts and into her heart. She discusses the loss of her sister, the way her family dealt with the loss and what she remembers. Although she’s been silently suffering, she lets her guard down with Adam who seems to be the only person that asks how she’s holding up. She feels a level of comfort with him that she doesn’t find with anyone else. Slowly, he becomes her rock. Flawed as she feels, he accepts all of her. He sees her scars, both emotional and physical yet he listens intently and accepts every beautiful part of her. He shares his dreams with her and she never criticizes, she simply encourages him to do what he loves. The few months they spend together in High School stick with them for a lifetime. But can these two find their way back to each other?

Present day

Nicki’s career has led her search for Adam. After googling him, she finds out he is currently dating a woman who is from an illustrious family. Knowing that his family is from the same circle she can’t help but feel inferior. She still thinks of him often and longs to see him but she won’t admit it. Two of her friends venture to Europe and while in England, they meet up with Adam who is as curious about Nicki and her life as she is about him. I won’t give much more away but this is a must read for second chance romance fans!

Yay or Nay?

This is a beautiful book. It captures the essence of not only a first love, but true love. One that outlasts even distance and time. It was an emotional ride for me, the story touched on some pretty heavy loss for someone so young. It made me feel for this girl who felt as though she had no one to turn to. Although she grieves with her family, they all handled the loss differently. They all had to grieve alone in their own way. Adam helps her through a tough time in her life but he makes a lasting impression and forever changes her.

I highly recommend this book to anyone who enjoys a good love story. Depending on how emotional of a reader you are, you may need tissues for this one! I don’t cry very often in general so I don’t get very emotional with many books, BUT this one had me a bit teary eyed at one point or another. This is a book about first loves, second chances, healing and enduring love. I love, love, loved it. I am eagerly awaiting the release of Book 2!

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

Purchase Beside Your Heart for Kindle | Paperback

There was something about the look in his eyes and the feeling of our bodies being connected that was too much. Everything about being with him felt impossibly special, but was it? In a way, I didn’t care if the actual sex was as good for him as it had been with Kate or Meredith; he appeared to enjoy himself just fine. But did it feel the same way for him?

Only allowing him to rest on my chest for a minute, I turned over onto my side. I felt the need to protect myself, but I also wanted to know the truth—at least I thought I might. Timidly, I asked, “Is…is it always this way? When you’re with someone?”

He pulled me back toward him. Looking me straight in the eye, he somberly shook his head. “No. It’s never been like this for me.” Kissing my forehead, he ended the discussion. “I love you, Nicki.”

author pic

About the Author

Even before she graduated from law school, Mary knew she wasn’t cut out to be a real lawyer. Drawn to politics, she’s spent her career as an organizer, lobbyist, and nonprofit executive. Nothing piques her interest more than a good political scandal or romance, and when she stumbled upon writing, she put the two together. A born Midwesterner, naturalized Texan, and transient resident of Washington, D.C., Mary now lives in Northern California with her two daughters and real lawyer husband.

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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.

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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.

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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 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

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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.

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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

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

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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:

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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

Jul 12 2013

Catching Liam Book Blitz

Author: Bibliowhore • Discussion: No Comments

Synopsis:

Twenty-one year-old Jillian Nichols only has one rule when it comes to boys: catch and release. Boy-catching isn’t just a game for Jillian and her friends, it’s a lifestyle. After all, boys might be good for a dance or a drink and certainly a little under-cover action of the scandalous variety, but expect much else and you’re bound for heart ache.

So when her best friends and fellow boy catchers start dropping like flies junior year, Jillian is determined to keep boys in her bedroom and out of her heart. Until she meets Liam McAvoy, the kind of guy that sticks around to make waffles and who can’t—or perhaps won’t—take a hint.

Study abroad student Liam doesn’t want to be another notch on Jillian’s bedpost. Actually he has much more interesting ideas for Jillian and her bedposts, but his student visa’s set expiration date means he can’t promise her forever. That doesn’t mean he’s going to walk away from the challenge of discovering why Jillian is hell-bent at keeping people at a distance.

Before long, neither is sure who is catching who—or if they’re playing for keeps. Jillian knows one thing though: falling in love will not only break the only rule of boy-catching, it could also break her heart.

Buy Catching Liam for Kindle | Kobo | Nook

Liam’s “Caught You” Waffles

2 cups all-purpose flour

1 teaspoon salt

4 teaspoons baking powder

2 tablespoons white sugar

2 eggs

1 1/2 cups warm milk

1/3 cup butter, melted

Secret ingredient #1: 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Secret ingredient #2: 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon

Directions

This recipe will make about 10-12 waffles. The perfect amount to impress any roommates that straggle in, or to feast on if you’ve pulled an all-nighter.

Preheat waffle iron to desired temperature. I like it really hot. I know, I know. That’s what she said. Now would be a good time to make sure you push the iron far enough back on the counter to avoid any burns through accidental contact of your hands…or other areas.
In a large bowl, sift together flour, salt, baking powder and sugar, and I do mean sift. Don’t just throw it all in the bowl. You have to give it a little attention. Mix it up a little. Don’t just set it aside.
In a separate bowl, beat the eggs. Here’s my trick. If your girl’s still sleeping, separate the eggs first. Whip the egg whites like they’ve been naughty until soft peaks form. Stir in the milk, yolks, butter and vanilla. Pour the milk mixture into the flour mixture. Mix together until combined, but don’t overdo it. Too much attention and they’ll come out tough instead of crisp and slightly chewy.
Ladle the batter into a preheated waffle iron. Don’t get burned. Cook the waffles until golden. Refrain from getting distracted with extra-culinary activities.
Serve before she or the waffles get cold.

About the Author:

Sophia Bleu is a secret identity where I can write about fantasies and falling in love and all the smexiness in between. In real life, I’m likely catching a plane, chasing kids, or making out with the love of my life—all 6 ft 3 inches of hotness that he is. Life is pretty good.

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Jul 11 2013

This Man Book Review

Author: Bibliowhore • Discussion: No Comments

Synopsis

Young interior designer Ava O’Shea has an appointment for a first consultation at The Manor with the owner, Mr Jesse Ward. She is expecting nothing more than an overweight, cravat wearing, well-to-do countryman, and on arrival, nothing would suggest otherwise. How wrong could she be? This Man is devastatingly handsome, charming and confident. He is also a conceited, hedonistic playboy, who knows no boundaries. Ava desperately does not want to be attracted to him, but she can’t control the overwhelming affect he has on her. Every instinct is telling her to run, so she does, but Jesse Ward is not so willing to let her go. He wants her and is determined to have her. She knows she is heading for heartbreak, but how can she run when he won’t let her?

So, where do I begin? I had a love hate relationship with this book but I also know I’ve immediately started the next book in the series. What can I say? Curiosity got the best of me. I guess that says something about the writing/book.

Jesse, Jesse, Jesse – he drove me insane at times. His temper is maddening. I love him, he’s sexy and everything you look for in a good fictional love interest but I also don’t know if I could put up with a man like him. He was hot but definitely had a control issue that at times was just a tad much for me. He was a bit too possesive for my liking. I mean what girl doesn’t love a strong male character, a manly man who is a touch possessive, but some of his actions were straight crazy. And Ava, let’s not get me started on Ava. She annoys me. I mean really annoys me. I have a total love hate relatonship with her. I loved that she wanted to have her own identity but the more I read, the more naive she became with all things Jessie. It was a bit unnerving but I don’t know if I would have been able to resist a man like Jessie either…so I’m torn! She is docile which isn’t necessarily the worst thing when it comes to Jessie but her flip flopping between I want you, I don’t want you, I love you, I hate you…it all drove me insane. I mean, if you know you will give in to whatever he demands, why are you fighting him and your feelings so much? I don’t know. I’ve since started the second book and I am enjoying it a lot more than I did the first. But we will get to that review at a later time.

I didn’t read it in one sitting, but I easily could have. It held my attention and I wanted to know what would come next. You get sucked into this story and questions overtake your mind. I have to admit there were some hilarious, jaw dropping, make me blush moments. I think anyone who enjoys a good erotica/erotic romance will like this book. I laughed and gasped a lot. I swooned and gushed, but I was utterly frustrated with the relationship between these two. And the whole age thing, omg, when is he going to come clean already? It’s driving me nuts!!!! I’m eager to get to This Man Confessed already but I am already frustrated reading Beneath This Man…which btw is getting good LOL. It’s one of those books where you want to choke and kiss the protagonists all at once. All the while asking yourself what’s next?!! I do recommend it but know that you’re in for one hell of a read. I haven’t given this book a rating yet I’m torn between a 3/4 but leaning towards a 4…ish. LOL go ahead and read this book and you will understand the ish reference! Happy Reading!

Purchase This Man for Kindle

About the Author:

http://jodiellenmalpas.co.uk | Facebook | Twitter | Goodreads