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Apr 28 2015

Book Review: BLACK IRIS by Leah Raeder

Author: Bibliowhore • Discussion: No Comments

9781476786421

 

 BLACK IRIS by Leah Raeder 

Atria Books Paperback | 384 pages | ISBN: 9781476786421 | On sale: April 28, 2015 | $15.00

eBook: Atria Books | 384 pages | ISBN: 9781476786438 | On sale: April 28, 2015 | $5.99

 

ABOUT BLACK IRIS:
It only took one moment of weakness for Laney Keating’s world to fall apart. One stupid gesture for a hopeless crush. Then the rumors began. Slut, they called her. Queer. Psycho. Mentally ill, messed up, so messed up even her own mother decided she wasn’t worth sticking around for.
If Laney could erase that whole year, she would. College is her chance to start with a clean slate.
She’s not looking for new friends, but they find her: charming, handsome Armin, the only guy patient enough to work through her thorny defenses—and fiery, filterless Blythe, the bad girl and partner in crime who has thorns of her own.
But Laney knows nothing good ever lasts. When a ghost from her past resurfaces—the bully who broke her down completely—she decides it’s time to live up to her own legend. And Armin and Blythe are going to help.
Which was the plan all along.
Because the rumors are true. Every single one. And Laney is going to show them just how true.
She’s going to show them all.

 

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REVIEW

Mindfuck. This book is a total mindfuck.
That perfectly describes Black Iris and the psychological turmoil I experienced while reading. 
I thought my first experience reading Leah Raeder’s Unteachable was intense, but this book displays a whole different level of her literary genius. It’s powerful and deeply personal which makes the reader connect in an indescribable way. 

 

The novel captivates you from the moment you begin reading. I am generally not a fan of making highlights in books. When I started reading more e-books I rarely took advantage of the highlight feature on my Kindle. I loved that I was able to highlight and flag things without marring the book, but I’ve still remained a bit conservative in that respect. Something has to really speak to me for me to highlight. Black Iris seems to be the exception. I found myself constantly highlighting wanting to savor and remember every moment, marking the words that moved me so I could go back to them later and relive the experience. The writing is profound, lyrical and undeniably haunting.  There is a pain and complexity to this book that I’ve never experienced before as a reader. It is as though you are watching someone come to terms with their very existence and how they begin to accept every part that makes them a whole. The book is sexual, but doesn’t fit in any particular mold. The romantic aspect of this book is complex and at times troubling. I worried about how toxic some of the relationships in this book had become at one point, but there was such immense beauty in Laney’s coming to terms with who she was. Bit by bit, piece by piece, as disturbed as I was at times by her actions I understood them in a way that made me question my sanity. 

 

There are writers I dislike, writers I like and then there are the writers that I love. The ones who I know will repeatedly produce outstanding content. The author whose writing seeps its way into my veins, searing their name into my soul. Leah Raeder managed to win me over with Unteachable, but Black Iris gripped my heart solidifying my love for her writing and a deep respect for her as an author. It is addictive, flawlessly unique and oddly refreshing. It is unlike any book I’ve ever read. Black Iris is raw, wild and completely unpredictable. It crosses boundaries and takes you through a journey of acceptance, revenge and pain unlike any book I’ve ever read. It examines human sexuality on a deeper level than I’ve ever contemplated. It describes how fierce love between human beings can be, the effects of non acceptance from society as well as self and how deep an individuals experience can brand them and to what lengths someone will go for retribution. Love is love — Reader’s brilliant, dark and poetic writing capture this message beautifully. I voraciously devoured Black Iris and I hope you will too. 

 

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US:

 

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UK:

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AUS:

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ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Leah Raeder is a writer and unabashed nerd. Aside from reading her brains out, she enjoys graphic design, video games, fine whiskey, and the art of self-deprecation. She lives with her very own manic pixie dream boy in Chicago. Visit her at LeahRaeder.com.
Find Leah online:
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Apr 17 2015

Book Review: Without Me (Men of Inked #5) by Chelle Bliss

Author: Bibliowhore • Discussion: No Comments
WMTourBannerTHE LAST MEN OF INKED BOOK IS NOW AVAILABLE!
WIthoutMeBiggerVersion

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Synopsis:
I’d led a selfish existence.
I liked who I was. Hell, I loved myself.
Women threw themselves at me and I took what they offered without remorse. I promised them nothing.
I sank my teeth into life, holding on to the bitch like my very existence depended on it.
Time passed.
Women came and went.
The second I let my guard down and released the hold I had on life… What was my award for such carelessness?
A love so spectacular and heart wrenching that it threw me for a loop. When I was in too deep to escape, my greatest fears became reality.
This is my story. My downfall. My salvation.

REVIEW 

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

Tears! Chelle, you brought me to TEARS!!!! God, I loved this book. It is by far the best in the series, but I suspected it would be since I’ve always had a soft spot for Anthony. I knew he would be knocked down when love finally came his way. Chelle did not disappoint.  

 

Without Me is a raw, deeply moving and heart wrenching account of a love so deep it inspires you. Anthony’s story is as tumultuous as I’d envisioned. Despite all the obstacles Without Me is a beautiful story. As with all the Men of Inked books, this one felt familiar, like you were experiencing everything through the eyes of friends or family. There’s something about Chelle’s  writing that makes you feel so connected to these characters and their stories. Without Me gutted me at times. I was so invested in this story and the outcome I read it in one sitting…COULD NOT put it down! The story is told in dual POV which I absolutely loved. Chelle nailed both characters. Before the release of Without Me I had my suspicions about Anthony’s love interest and I nailed a few things which made me happy, other things were unexpected curve balls that just made this story come to life for me. 

 

I found it incredibly difficult to write this review because as much as I adore this book I don’t want to spoil one moment for you when you pick up a copy. The synopsis is vague enough that I feel I should leave the love interest out of my review. I think experiencing what Anthony does as it happens is the best way to read this book. I swear I never thought I’d see the day where Anthony Gallo would be knocked out by love. To say he was persistent when it came to this story is an understatement. You will see a kinder, softer, more caring side of him, but you will also see an angry, dark side one that is at times overcome by the emotions sizzling between the two. You’ll experience both their feelings and desires. I think I connected with this book on so many different levels.  Chelle never failed to bring the heat we’ve grown to love and swoon over from the Gallo clan. When I wasn’t going through emotional turmoil, I was fanning myself and attempting to stop my kindle from bursting into flames….man oh man was this book HOT!  

 

Warning, this book may cause tears…big fat ugly ones, or maybe just a few, but it will get to you.  You know that one stray tear that falls down your cheek as you read a story so beautiful you can’t help but feel for the characters…even as you try to avoid it, it happens. One teardrop that you quickly swipe away and continue reading only to get hit again and again by all the emotional ferocity and fire that is Chelle Bliss…yeah, it just might happen. 

 

This story hit me hard because of the content and I know if you have experienced similar things as Anthony or the other characters you’ll understand that this was an emotional journey for not only the reader, but also Chelle. I urge you to read the Letter to Readers at the end so you understand just how personal this story is. It was beautiful. I loved every minute of it and I’m glad that although this is the end of the Men of Inked series, we won’t be seeing the last of the Gallos. A definite must-read for Erotic Romance/Contemporary Romance readers. 

 

Grab your copy today!

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Muscular and sexy torso of young man

About the Author

Bliss

USA Today bestselling author Chelle Bliss is an American author who writes stories about real-life scenarios with fantasy Alpha males. Her works include humor as well as steamy sex.
Website   |   Facebook   |   Twitter
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Listen to the Without Me Playlist on Spotify
bookmark-2inx8in-h-frontStart Reading the COMPLETED Men of Inked Series!
Throttle Me ~ Book 1
Hook Me ~ Book 2
Throttled ~ Book 3
Resist Me ~ Book 4
Resisting ~ Book 5
Uncover Me ~ Book 6
Without Me ~ Book 7
Also available on Barnes & Noble, Kobo, iTunes, and GooglePlay!

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Apr 15 2015

Book Review: Deep (Stage Dive, #4) by Kylie Scott

Author: Bibliowhore • Discussion: No Comments

deep

SYNOPSIS
Positive. With two little lines on a pregnancy test, everything in Lizzy Rollins’ ordinary life is about to change forever. And all because of one big mistake in Vegas with Ben Nicholson, the irresistibly sexy bass player for Stage Dive. So what if Ben’s the only man she’s ever met who can make her feel completely safe, cherished, and out of control with desire at the same time? Lizzy knows the gorgeous rock star isn’t looking for anything more permanent than a good time, no matter how much she wishes differently.
 
Ben knows Lizzy is off limits. Completely and utterly. She’s his best friend’s little sister now, and no matter how hot the chemistry is between them, no matter how sweet and sexy she is, he’s not going to go there. But when Ben is forced to keep the one girl he’s always had a weakness for out of trouble in Sin City, he quickly learns that what happens in Vegas, doesn’t always stay there. Now he and Lizzie are connected in the deepest way possible…but will it lead to a connection of the heart?

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Amazon US   |   Amazon UK   |   Barnes & Noble   |   Kobo   |   iBooks

 

REVIEW

*This was an ARC provided to me for free in exchange for an honest review.

All thoughts and comments are my own.*

As far as rock star romances go, Kylie Scott’s Stage Dive series is the cream of the crop. She absolutely nailed this series. I fell in love with Lick, then Play stole the show and had me in stitches not to mention hot and bothered, Lead made me fall in love with love and now Kylie pulls together a remarkable ending to a much-loved series. Ben and Lizzy’s story comes to life in the best possible way with Deep.
 
My heart broke a little by the end of this book and not because the story ended badly, in fact, I think I loved the ending a little too much because I was grinning like a Cheshire cat. My disappointment or heartbreak was related to the series coming to an end. It has been a much beloved series and I will definitely revisit when I need my rock star fix. It’s hard for me to pick favorites in the series, Deep hit me on a different level. The connection between Ben and Lizzy frustrated me at times, but the combo was absolutely perfect for so many ways…I got it and I loved it. I was upset, enchanted and utterly smitten all at once. I laughed a lot (as I did with all the Stage Dive books.) Lizzy is loveable and fierce. I fell in love with her bravery and ferocity. I fell hard for Ben the minute I heard about the bearded bass player…. must’ve been the B 😉
 
Lizzy Rollins has had a crush on bass player Ben Nicholson since the day she laid eyes on him, she attempted to pursue him only to be repeatedly shut down, but one night in Vegas will irrevocably change their lives. Sorry Ben, what happened in Vegas won’t be staying in Vegas after all. Ben, the man we knew never wanted to be tamed. He’s got a thing for Lizzy, but keeps her at an arms length, but will their connection bring him to his knees?
 
This book had me crushing on Ben something fierce. He was a brooding mess at times, but there was also such a tender side to him. He was always the mysterious one to me so it was interesting to finally learn more about him. His relationship with Lizzy is anything but smooth and the two compliment one another well. They have a ton of hurdles to work through, but by the end you’re completely smitten and satiated with the outcome.
 
Deep weaved its way into my heart and left a lasting imprint. The Stage Dive books are hands down my favorite rocker series. Ben and Lizzy’s story will take you on a witty and emotional journey, with plenty of magical moments. There are interconnected stories featuring the other stage dive members and their significant others, plus new characters are introduced. I must mention Mal because he has been one of my favorites from day one and he made this book an even better experience for me. He always adds just a little something extra and his presence in this book is absolute perfection. This book is entertaining, humorous and off the charts steamy. I hope Kylie finds a way to bring back my favorite characters in the future.

 

 

EXCERPT

His laughter, it didn’t really sound the smallest bit amused. “Christ. You’re done here.”
“Ah, no. I’m actually not. Now see, this is where we have a problem.” I folded my arms. Then unfolded them because like fuck I’d look defensive. He was the one in the wrong, not me. “You’re not prepared to take me, or my feelings, seriously. What you want is to hide away in Mr. Too Cool for Commitment land and just play with my affections when it suits you. Okay, I’ve accepted that. But none of that means it’s okay for you to come in here and act like you’re the boss of me. None of it.”
“That so?” he asked, leaning down so that we were almost nose to nose.
“That’s so, baby.” I play-punched him in the shoulder, which it should be noted, I barely came up to. Okay, so maybe the alcohol on a mostly empty stomach had made me slightly/lots braver/sillier. “So why don’t you take your little caveman jealous tantrum bullshit somewhere else. See, I do this funny thing I like to refer to as whatever the fuck I want. Understand?”
He just stared.
“And as pretty as you are with your beard and your muscles, you are too damn tricky and . . . complicated and shit for me.”
“I am?”
“Yes, you are. Are you finally seeing my point here?”
“You bet.”
“Excellent. So take your hotness elsewhere, kind sir. I want no part of it!” Huh. I had so told him. Drunken bravado was the best.
 
deep teaser 4 

 About the Author

kylie scott

Kylie is a long time fan of erotic love stories and B-grade horror films. She demands a happy ending and if blood and carnage occur along the way then all the better. Based in Queensland, Australia with her two children and one delightful husband, she reads, writes and never dithers around on the internet.
 
Kylie is represented by Amy Tannenbaum at the Jane Rotrosen Agency, New York.
 
Stalk Kylie Scott: 
Website   |   Facebook   |   Twitter   |   Goodreads

 

Stage Dive Series Reading Order

 

Lick (Book One)

 

Amazon US   |   Amazon UK   |   Barnes & Noble   |   Kobo   |   iBooks

 

Play (Book Two)

 

Amazon US   |   Amazon UK  |   Barnes & Noble   |   Kobo   |   iBooks

 

Lead (Book Three)

 

Amazon US   |   Amazon UK   |   Barnes & Noble   |   Kobo   |   iBooks

 

 

Deep (Book Four)

Amazon US   |   Amazon UK   |   Barnes & Noble   |   Kobo   |   iBooks

 

 GIVEAWAY

Win a SIGNED SET of the Stage Dive Series

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Mar 26 2015

PRE RELEASE BLITZ: Deep (Stage Dive, #4) by Kylie Scott

Author: Bibliowhore • Discussion: No Comments

deep

SYNOPSIS
Positive. With two little lines on a pregnancy test, everything in Lizzy Rollins’ ordinary life is about to change forever. And all because of one big mistake in Vegas with Ben Nicholson, the irresistibly sexy bass player for Stage Dive. So what if Ben’s the only man she’s ever met who can make her feel completely safe, cherished, and out of control with desire at the same time? Lizzy knows the gorgeous rock star isn’t looking for anything more permanent than a good time, no matter how much she wishes differently.
 
Ben knows Lizzy is off limits. Completely and utterly. She’s his best friend’s little sister now, and no matter how hot the chemistry is between them, no matter how sweet and sexy she is, he’s not going to go there. But when Ben is forced to keep the one girl he’s always had a weakness for out of trouble in Sin City, he quickly learns that what happens in Vegas, doesn’t always stay there. Now he and Lizzie are connected in the deepest way possible…but will it lead to a connection of the heart?

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deep pre-order now 

Meet Ben and Lizzy on March 31st!

Amazon US   |   Amazon UK   |   Barnes & Noble   |   Kobo   |   iBooks

 

EXCERPT

His laughter, it didn’t really sound the smallest bit amused. “Christ. You’re done here.”
“Ah, no. I’m actually not. Now see, this is where we have a problem.” I folded my arms. Then unfolded them because like fuck I’d look defensive. He was the one in the wrong, not me. “You’re not prepared to take me, or my feelings, seriously. What you want is to hide away in Mr. Too Cool for Commitment land and just play with my affections when it suits you. Okay, I’ve accepted that. But none of that means it’s okay for you to come in here and act like you’re the boss of me. None of it.”
“That so?” he asked, leaning down so that we were almost nose to nose.
“That’s so, baby.” I play-punched him in the shoulder, which it should be noted, I barely came up to. Okay, so maybe the alcohol on a mostly empty stomach had made me slightly/lots braver/sillier. “So why don’t you take your little caveman jealous tantrum bullshit somewhere else. See, I do this funny thing I like to refer to as whatever the fuck I want. Understand?”
He just stared.
“And as pretty as you are with your beard and your muscles, you are too damn tricky and . . . complicated and shit for me.”
“I am?”
“Yes, you are. Are you finally seeing my point here?”
“You bet.”
“Excellent. So take your hotness elsewhere, kind sir. I want no part of it!” Huh. I had so told him. Drunken bravado was the best.
deep teaser 4
About the Author

kylie scott

Kylie is a long time fan of erotic love stories and B-grade horror films. She demands a happy ending and if blood and carnage occur along the way then all the better. Based in Queensland, Australia with her two children and one delightful husband, she reads, writes and never dithers around on the internet.
 
Kylie is represented by Amy Tannenbaum at the Jane Rotrosen Agency, New York.
 
Stalk Kylie Scott:  Website  |  Facebook  |  Twitter  |  Goodreads

 

Stage Dive Series Reading Order

 

Lick (Book One)

Amazon US   |   Amazon UK   |   Barnes & Noble   |   Kobo   |   iBooks

 

Play (Book Two)

Amazon US   |   Amazon UK  |   Barnes & Noble   |   Kobo   |   iBooks

 

Lead (Book Three)

 

Amazon US   |   Amazon UK   |   Barnes & Noble   |   Kobo   |   iBooks

 

 

Deep (Book Four)

Amazon US   |   Amazon UK   |   Barnes & Noble   |   Kobo   |   iBooks
Mar 25 2015

Book Review: A Stone in the Sea (Bleeding Stars #1) by A.L. Jackson

Author: Bibliowhore • Discussion: No Comments
  23348621
“A passionate ride of secrets, surprises and steaming hot sex. Baz and Shea’s story is vividly brought to life through words in A.L Jackson’s signature way that is like pure music.” – Penelope Ward, NYT Bestselling Author 
Synopsis
He wanted nothing at all… 
Until he found she had everything to give… 
Sunder lead singer and guitarist Sebastian Stone has everything—fans, fame, and fortune. He also has a heart full of bitterness and a reputation for a short-fused temper. But an outward reputation rarely reveals the true man inside. Facing assault charges after trying to protect his younger brother, Sebastian is sent to Savannah, Georgia to lie low until the dust settles in L.A. 
Shea Bentley is beautiful, kind, and hiding from the very lifestyle Sebastian has always embraced. 
When the mysterious, tattooed stranger begins hanging out at the bar where she works, Shea is quick to recognize he is nothing but trouble, but she’s helpless to the way her body lights up every time his intense gray eyes tangle with hers. 
They both soon find themselves drowning in a sea of desire and passion that won’t let them up for air. 
Sebastian knows firsthand secrets never die, and he’s not the only one who’s hiding them. 
Loving someone always comes with a price. But will it be Shea’s past that costs them everything? 

 

“Sebastian and Shea have a love that is powerful, passionate, and so perfectly flawed that you’ll crave more. Jackson’s best work yet!” -Molly McAdams, NYT bestselling author 

 

“A Stone in the Sea is both sexy and powerfully emotional. Baz and Shea’s story left me breathless!” -Mia Sheridan, NYT bestselling author of Archer’s Voice

 

 

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Review

 

There is just something incredibly captivating about A.L. Jackson’s writing. She grabs the reader’s attention and you become consumed with her characters. From the minute I heard about this release I couldn’t wait to get my hands on a copy. The cover reveal threw me over the edge and I was practically salivating until release day! I stalked Amazon until I was finally able to buy a copy…which may or may not have happened seconds after the link went live…I will not confirm or deny anything 😉
 
The minute I started reading I was hooked. The thing I loved most was the dual POV. Her poetic style immediately grabbed my attention and I hung on every word. A Stone in the Sea is poignant, precise, and utterly beautiful. It tore my heart up in the best possible way and I am still reeling from the high. I absolutely adored everything about Baz and Shea’s story, BUT, the cliffhanger ending nearly killed me. Seriously, it’s one hell of a cliffhanger. (Don’t say I didn’t warn you.) I am waiting with bated breath for the release of Drowning to Breathe. I’m sure A.L. Jackson will find new, soul-shattering ways to continue torturing my already wounded heart. I swear I still loved everything about this book, it’s a phenomenal beginning to a new series.
 
Sebastian Stone stole my heart. I ached with him, for him and I wanted nothing more than to see him happy. Sebastian is the lead singer of the band Sunder. He’s dealt with  many battles in his life, some tragic, some challenging, but his latest confrontation ends badly forcing him to disappear for a while. He and his band mates head to Savannah, Georgia to try to stay as inconspicuous as possible until things get smoothed over in L.A.. Sebastian has no idea that his visit to this small town will turn his world upside down.
 What I wasn’t expecting was her. That fucking gorgeous girl who’d swallowed me whole with just a glimpse.
Shea is a sweet, kind-hearted woman who has no desire to let anyone new into her life. She’s been through enough and getting involved with Baz would just complicate things, but the chemistry between Baz and Shea is undeniable. Shea and Baz have a love so intense it’s hard to know where one begins and the other ends? Their love is breathtaking, but as beautiful as this complex story is, it’s equally heartbreaking. Everything between these two is intense and magnetic. The problem is, both Shea and Baz are holding back; they both have secrets, but secrets can’t stay buried forever…they always have a way of unraveling.
 I’d always remained immune. Until him, Baz. The guy who looked at me as if he wanted to sink inside me, searching for a place to drown. I wanted to let him.
I adored this story and I cannot wait until June for the continuation. I just want to reiterate how insane the ending is, be ready to fall in love and have your jaw drop by the last page!

 

Every muscle in my body coiled with reverence. Gripping me in the tendrils of her storm, the hurricane surrounding her grew fast and fierce.

 BUY IT NOW:

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AL Jackson pic

About the Author
A.L. Jackson is the New York Times bestselling author of Take This Regret and Lost to You, as well as other contemporary romance titles, including Come to Me Quietly, Come to Me Softly, Pulled, When We Collide, and If Forever Comes.
She first found a love for writing during her days as a young mother and college student. She filled the journals she carried with short stories and poems used as an emotional outlet for the difficulties and joys she found in day-to-day life. Years later, she shared a short story she’d been working on with her two closest friends and, with their encouragement, this story became her first full length novel. A.L. now spends her days writing in Southern Arizona where she lives with her husband and three children. Her favorite pastime is spending time with the ones she loves.

 

To stay up to date with important news on A.L. Jackson, including new releases, sales, and exclusive specials and excerpts, text “jackson” to 96000 to subscribe!

 

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Mar 11 2015

Book Review: CONFESS by Colleen Hoover

Author: Bibliowhore • Discussion: No Comments

confess-9781476791456_hr

CONFESS

BY COLLEEN HOOVER

 

Atria Books | Paperback
On-Sale: 03/10/15
Paperback ISBN: 9781476791456, $16.00 
eBook ISBN: 9781476791463, $7.99 
320 pages

Get Your Copy Now!

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SEE MORE RETAILERS
 From #1 New York Times bestselling author Colleen Hoover, a new novel about risking everything for love—and finding your heart somewhere between the truth and lies.
 
Auburn Reed has her entire life mapped out. Her goals are in sight and there’s no room for mistakes. But when she walks into a Dallas art studio in search of a job, she doesn’t expect to find a deep attraction to the enigmatic artist who works there, Owen Gentry.
 
For once, Auburn takes a risk and puts her heart in control, only to discover that Owen is keeping some major secrets from coming out. The magnitude of his past threatens to destroy everything important to Auburn, and the only way to get her life back on track is to cut Owen out of it.
 
The last thing Owen wants is to lose Auburn, but he can’t seem to convince her that truth is sometimes as subjective as art. All he would have to do to save their relationship is confess. But in this case, the confession could be much more destructive than the actual sin…
 
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REVIEW

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

Some secrets should never turn into confessions. I know that better than anyone.

There are a million reasons why I love reading and Colleen Hoover is one of those reasons! Authors like her grab your attention from the very first line and keep you hanging on to their every word. To say I experienced emotional turmoil reading Confess is an understatement. I cried big ugly tears, but what else is new when it comes to Colleen? I think she is the only author that consistently makes me cry and for some reason I read and repeat the process with every release. She’s figuratively punched me in the gut time and time again and yet I keep coming back for more. All I can say is, so far every book has been well worth the tears. She brings the reader into a very realistic world with relatable issues (for the most part). When I read Colleen’s books it’s as if a piece of art is being painted in my head (how apropos) or puzzle pieces coming together, either way, she’s ingenious. Her creativity knows no bounds, she’s made a book with an accompanying album, one that included slam poetry and has even co-authored a book with Tarryn Fisher. Now she’s teamed up with the amazing UK based artist Danny O’Connor. Together, they have created an absolute masterpiece. The art in Confess creates the perfect visual for the reader. Danny O’Connor’s work is brilliant. His art adds so much intensity to this novel. I spent time looking at his work and I absolutely fell in love. I understand why Colleen decided to work with him. The joint effort was well worth the wait!
 
I’m not a fan of spoilers, never have been, never will be. I’ll attempt to give you as much information about Confess without giving away too much of the storyline. Confess is the story of Auburn Reed and Owen Gentry. It reveals how their lives intersect and the upheavals they experience following their first interaction. There is an attraction that begins as curiosity, but slowly builds to an indescribable desire and a connection that makes you feel as though you’ve just witnessed a fairytale match coming alive, but all fairytales experience trials and tribulations before they ever make it to the HEA and boy did Auburn and Owen get a run for their money. This book will give you angina. I hurt for these two. I cried for them and I wanted to throw this book against a wall at times.
 
I don’t watch much television and people like to look at me like I’m crazy for admitting I prefer to read, but to me, I am visualizing everything as if it were TV or a movie. I like to tell people when I read I AM watching a movie (in my head). With Confess you’re living the movie with Auburn and Owen. Every emotion, every heartrending incident, every breathtaking moment you LIVE with them. I wasn’t sure what direction she would take with the storyline and I have to admit I grew nervous as the ending grew closer. ANGINA I’m telling you! I kept looking at my kindle like, “Why are you at 80% and all the things I need to happen aren’t coming together yet? Please tell me this will be a HEA or I really will throw this kindle.” Yes, I had this internal monologue. Don’t judge me because trust me, you will too! I have to admit Colleen vividly and flawlessly captures the emotions and behaviors of all the characters. And although I was heartbroken for a while I felt as though I were truly witnessing an accurate portrayal of control, helplessness and genuine heartfelt love.
 
This is one of those novels that make you enjoy every step of the reading process. It is utterly heartbreaking at times, yet incredibly beautiful. This book gutted me and I wasn’t sure I’d ever recover. So many things were happening and as usual Colleen kept the surprises coming. I laughed, I cried and held my breath waiting patiently for my demise at the hands of a book. I was captivated by the realistic and complex characters, the multilayered plot and emotionally charged storyline. This book is the epitome of unputdownable. I was addicted from the minute I started reading and I COULDN’T stop, until I begrudgingly turned that final page. Confess is an incredible read with plenty of bumps along the way, but the final outcome is well worth your time ahem and tears. Oh, and did I mention this book is written in dual POV!!!!
 

Colleen has Confess prints for sale at her online store HERE and if you’re interested in viewing or purchasing art from Danny O’Connor you can find his work HERE. 

 

My Confession:

 

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 Comment with yours.

 GIVEAWAY

 

Enter for a chance to win! Visit Atria’s Tumblr page from 3/9 – 3/22 to enter to win and a grand prize of a signed framed print of one of the images in the book plus a signed copy of CONFESS or one of the runner up prizes of one of four signed copies of CONFESS.

 

11109_408567071_hrAbout the Author:
Colleen Hoover is the #1 New York Times bestselling author of Slammed, Point of Retreat, This Girl, Hopeless, Losing Hope, Maybe Someday, Finding Cinderella, and Ugly Love. She lives in Texas with her husband and their three boys. Please visit ColleenHoover.com. 

 

Find Colleen online:
Website   |   Facebook   |   Twitter   |   Instagram
Feb 27 2015

RELEASE DAY BLITZ: That’s A Lie (Promises, Promises #2) by Victoria Klahr

Author: Bibliowhore • Discussion: No Comments

 

Happy Re-Release Day to Victoria Klahr!
Find out if Seth will be able to show Josie the true meaning of love in,
That’s a Lie
the sequel to That’s a Promise.
 

 

 

TITLE: That’s a Lie (Promises, Promises #2)

AUTHOR: Victoria Klahr
GENRE: Contemporary Adult, New Adult

RE-RELEASED: February 27, 2015

 

 

SYNOPSIS:

 

Seth is back.

 

When he walked back into my life, it almost felt like the pieces of my broken heart could be fixed. I thought we could go back to being best friends, but then I started to feel what I had been blocking out for years. I tried. Boy, did I try! But once I started to let him in, I wanted nothing more than to cross that line from friendship into something more…

 

Just when I think I can move on and let myself be happy, an ugly reminder from my past comes storming in and threatens to destroy the sliver of hope that’s been growing since Seth came back.

 

Do I even deserve to be loved?

 

“I’m not asking to fix your heart. I’m not asking to mend you. I love each and every shattered piece of you. I’m asking that you let me love you. Let me love each piece of your broken heart, and I swear to you I will make up for every heartache you have ever experienced.”

 

I came back for Josie.

 

I knew I’d have to fight for her, but with the loss of her dad and the truth about what happened with her and Blake, I quickly realized that making her mine was going to be a lot harder than I first thought. The problem is, I can’t pretend like she’s just my best friend. I can’t pretend I don’t want more.

 

I’m willing to do anything to get her to admit she has the same passionate feelings for me, because I know once she opens up and stops lying to herself, I can show her what it really means to be loved. It’s a battle of wills, but my love for her is stronger than her will to stop me.

 

So I fight for her. I fight because I know she deserves it.

 

 



PURCHASE HERE:
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TEASERS:

 

 

OTHER BOOKS IN THE SERIES:

 

That’s a Promise (Promises, Promises #1)

 

 

 

 
SYNOPSIS:

 

Pain isn’t new to me.


I’ve been to hell only to find it never really leaves when you get back. It haunts me through nightmares, unrequited love, lies, broken hearts, and now death.


A monster almost took my life.
My best friend carries half my soul a world away.
My boyfriend broke my heart but refuses to let me go.
And my father is dead.


I don’t believe in fate and I don’t believe in happily-ever-afters, but for some reason, I still hope.


Live, even with a tainted spirit.
Long for my other half to come back to me.
Risk another broken heart, just to feel loved again.
And refuse to let another horror break me.


In the face of my most recent tragedy, I have to decide whether forgiveness is something I can give. But even if that’s an option, can I be forgiven?

 

 

~ My Review ~

 

PURCHASE HERE:
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ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
 

 

Victoria Klahr (pronounced “Claire”) lives in North Carolina with her husband, daughter, and furbaby, Stephen, Alexis, and Bandit. When she’s not daydreaming about book boyfriends and fantasizing about being a badass heroine, she’s busy writing the stories that keep popping into her head. She’s currently finishing the Promises, Promises series and plotting multiple spin-offs. 

 

CONNECT WITH VICTORIA:

 


GIVEAWAY:
 

a Rafflecopter giveaway

 
 
https://www.facebook.com/fmrpromotions?fref=ts

Feb 17 2015

Book Review: CLEAR: A Death Trippers Novel by Jessica Park

Author: Bibliowhore • Discussion: No Comments
We’re celebrating the release of CLEAR: A Death Trippers Novel by Jessica Park!
 
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Cover Designer: The Cover Lure
Release date: February 17, 2015
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Blurb:
Stella Ford’s grasp on reality is already loose, and it’s about to come undone.
 
When the college junior flees Chicago and leaves her toxic family behind, she heads for coastal Maine to find the one person who brought her peace years ago: Sam Bishop. But the Sam she once knew now has painful secrets.  
 
Stella is determined to heal them both. Healing, however, is a challenge when the walls of her everyday existence collapse. And when Sam’s best friend is his worst enemy.
 
When the line between life and death blurs.
 
When an end is just a beginning.
 
When lust and rage rule.
 
Yet during extraordinary chaos, there can be extraordinary love, even if that love comes with a twist.
 
Welcome to death tripping.
 
A thriller, a paranormal, and a passionate romance, CLEAR crosses genres and breaks boundaries.

 

 

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Review

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

I am never disappointed with anything Jessica Park produces. I definitely have to start by saying this book is a total mindfuck. I felt like I was tripping at times. It is bold and unlike anything I’ve ever read before. The storyline is original and the characters are unique. Prepare yourself to be impressed by a new side of Jessica Park.  There is an element of darkness yet something so incredibly beautiful about this novel. I spent a good portion of this read saying, “Fuck,” “Holy Shit” and “OMG.” I’m pretty sure I even had to pick my jaw up a few times, but I loved every minute of it! Actually, I couldn’t put it down. In truth, I wondered to myself a few times “WTF am I reading,” but in a,”wow did that really just happen” way. There are so many layers to this novel and I’m being my usual evil self by giving minimal information, but I do believe this is a book you just need to read and experience on your own.
 
I fell in love with Sam, I hurt with Stella, and I desperately tried to understand Costa. Each element of this story is like a piece of a puzzle. There is no way to really prepare for what you will experience reading Clear. It is unrestrained, unpredictable and quite frankly A-M-A-Z-I-N-G. Jessica Park impresses the reader with her literary genius pushing boundaries and drawing the reader into one of the most cleverly crafted worlds I’ve ever experienced. The emotions you’ll experience while reading Clear will make you feel as though you have stepped into this book and become one of these characters. You will walk with them through every struggle, every hurt and every triumph. All the love, resentment, anger and sadness that they feel will slowly seep its way into your core forever branding you. This unforgettable, incredible story will consume you. I devoured it. Clear is erotic, intense and utterly addictive. It will mess with your mind and test your limits. It may even freak you out a bit at times, but it is sure to be a mind blowing ride. I was absolutely spellbound and I have no doubt you will be too. Fingers crossed for more Death Tripper novels!!!  

 

This book can be classified under many genres and I can’t say that it falls under any one category, but I would highly recommended it to New Adult and Paranormal Romance fans. BTW – There is no cliffhanger, I just want more. LOL.

 

BUY NOW:

Amazon US   |   Amazon UK   |   Barnes & Noble   |   Kobo   |   iBooks

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About the Author:
Jessica is the author of LEFT DROWNING, the New York Times bestselling FLAT-OUT LOVE (and the companion piece FLAT-OUT MATT), and RELATIVELY FAMOUS. She lives in New Hampshire where she spends an obscene amount time thinking about rocker boys and their guitars, complex caffeinated beverages, and tropical vacations. On the rare occasions that she is able to focus on other things, she writes.

 

Please visit her at jessicapark.me 

and on Facebook and Twitter

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Jan 21 2015

Book Review: The Curves Ahead by Kate J. Squires

Author: Bibliowhore • Discussion: No Comments

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The Curves Ahead by Kate J. Squires

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Synopsis
With over 2.7 million reads at the #1 featured Wattpad book, The Curves Ahead has inspired women all over the world.  
Curvy Evianna has it all – as the host of a number one talk show, she’s adored by millions of Australian TV viewers, has a gorgeous co-star and cash to burn.  
But the plus-sized role model is desperately lonely, battling the body issues that keep her isolated while lusting hopelessly over the delectable man beside her on screen.  Realizing she can’t experience love until she learns to make peace with herself, Evi decides she needs to make some big changes to her life, leaving her safe chair behind the desk and embracing a new adventure.  
She’ll discover self-love, passion and a whole lot about herself on her Australia-wide journey as she explores what it really means to be beautiful on the inside.

 

Read The Curves Ahead NOW on Wattpad

 

 

Review 

 

Most readers and authors alike are familiar with Wattpad. If you aren’t you’re missing out on some amazing reads. I suggest signing up here and navigating the website, there are some true gems. I’ve had Wattpad for a while, though I never really used it much. One day while scrolling through the app on my phone I came across a book by someone called Blondeanddangerous. Anyhow, I was like who’s this and what’s this book The Curves Ahead about, so I clicked and started reading. Then I realized I was on chapter 5…clearly nothing was going to get done until I finished this book.  So I made some coffee, sat my ass down and curled up on my sofa to continue reading this gem that had coincidentally captured my attention. 
Reading The Curves Ahead was like stepping into a magical land filled with fairies and unicorns…ok maybe I’m exaggerating a bit, but this book is amazing. I am still reveling in its awesomeness (yes, I said awesomeness). I love, love, loved it! The protagonist is one you will love and the journey she takes is both inspirational and eye opening. The author does an incredible job taking real world issues —- judgements, thoughts and struggles we all face and allows the reader to absorb current events and Evianna’s dilemmas and how they relate. In a way, this book may help you chase your own demons and face them head on. I really loved this story and how engulfed in these characters I became. I rooted for Evianna through every hurdle, every disappointment, every achievement, every regret. I laughed, I cried (seriously ugly tears) and I swooned. Through it all I was not left disappointed. The story is captivating and there is something everyone can relate to. It is a book about living, loving and learning. It is about growth and knowing yourself; being able to love and accept yourself and being able to put positive energy back into the world to gain love in return. Although there were some really heartbreaking moments, I loved every minute of this journey. The reality is, people face issues on a daily basis, Evianna’s story only reinforced a message of acceptance and finding your own path through every storm and hurdle thrown your way finding a way to come out on top. This is a beautiful story that every reader should read. I cannot stress how much I loved this story. I hope you will too.

Isn’t it a marvelous thought that everything in your entire life has led up to you being here, at this exact moment?

 

It is. But you could say that about being anywhere at any particular moment, couldn’t you?

 

He winked. “You could. That’s what makes every moment special: you are exactly where you’re meant to be.”

 

Happy Reading Lovelies xo  
The Curves Ahead is available on Wattpad for FREE, yes I said FREE…Check it out here

 

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About the Author 
Kate J. Squires, aka Blondeanddangerous is an Australian author of ten novels, including the #1 Wattpad ranked books ‘The Curves Ahead’ and ‘True North,’ which have accumulated over four million reads.  ‘Feather Light’ received a coveted position on HarperCollins’ Authonomy editor’s desk in 2014, and ‘Erotic Island’ is scheduled to be published in 2015 through Harlequin Escape.

 

Connect with Kate
Website   |   Facebook   |   Goodreads   |   Wattpad
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