Ripple by Heather Smith Meloche

When their too-adult lives lead them down self-destructive paths, these broken teens find a way to heal in this YA novel perfect for fans of Ellen Hopkins.

With her impossible-to-please grandmother on her back about college and her disapproving step-dad watching her every move, Tessa would do anything to escape the pressure-cooker she calls home. So she finds a shot of much-needed power and confidence by hooking up with boys, even though it means cheating on her boyfriend. But when she's finally caught red-handed, she’ll do anything she can to cover up what she's done.

Jack is a prankster who bucks the system every chance he gets—each transgression getting riskier and riskier. He loves the thrill, and each adventure allows a little release because his smug smile and suave demeanor in the face of authority doesn’t make life at home with his mom any less tough. He tries to take care of her, but the truth is he's powerless in the face of her fragile mental health. So he copes in his own way, by defacing public property and pulling elaborate pranks, though he knows in the end this’ll only screw up his life even more.

As they both try not to let their self-destructive patterns get the best of them, Tessa and Jack gravitate toward one another, discovering the best parts of themselves in the process. An honest portrayal of the urges that drive us and finding the strength to overcome them.

AMAZON

MY THOUGHTS:

4/5 STARS

This was one of those stormy reads with a rainbow'ish ending.... Most of it was dark and gloomy with shocking reveals and painfully flawed characters, but there were tiny slivers of color that brought hope. The plot was pure grit, but the the execution was a flawless piece of art. 

I know this is something I probably shouldn't admit to, but Tessa was like a soul sister. Her pain hit home and I felt so connected to her chapters. The things she did were ugly, but the reasons behind them were real and raw. Often times pain dwindles self worth to the point of no return. It's hard to think positive when you are drowning in negativity. These are the circumstances that she faced daily. You may not like her as a character, but please give her a chance to grow. Her life is anything but easy and the bravery in ink is one every girl should read about. 

I think my only issue was Jack. While I loved his sweet, caring side... His rebel attitude and obnoxious jokes to get out of trouble didn't exactly click with me. I understand why he was the way he was and it was tender and emotional how much he cared for his mom, but cocky and me just don't work. It's not exactly a book flaw, more of a reader flaw. I know Jack had his reasons, but I would have liked to see him crack a little more with the authority to show the vulnerability that I craved. 

All in all, this book is top notch in the ya genre. It brought everything to the table and really pulled out the deep issues I love to read about. I highly recommend it!

All the Ugly and Wonderful Things by Bryn Greenwood Review

A beautiful and provocative love story between two unlikely people and the hard-won relationship that elevates them above the Midwestern meth lab backdrop of their lives.

As the daughter of a drug dealer, Wavy knows not to trust people, not even her own parents. It's safer to keep her mouth shut and stay out of sight. Struggling to raise her little brother, Donal, eight-year-old Wavy is the only responsible adult around. Obsessed with the constellations, she finds peace in the starry night sky above the fields behind her house, until one night her star gazing causes an accident. After witnessing his motorcycle wreck, she forms an unusual friendship with one of her fa

ther's thugs, Kellen, a tattooed ex-con with a heart of gold.

By the time Wavy is a teenager, her relationship with Kellen is the only tender thing in a brutal world of addicts and debauchery. When tragedy rips Wavy's family apart, a well-meaning aunt steps in, and what is beautiful to Wavy looks ugly under the scrutiny of the outside world. A powerful novel you won’t soon forget, Bryn Greenwood's All the Ugly and Wonderful Things challenges all we know and believe about love.

Amazon Link- http://amzn.to/2boDDA9

MY THOUGHTS:5/5 STARS

"I was lying on tracks under a train I was in love with."

Readers are either going to hate this one or love it... 

For me, it was a book that instantly captured my attention and held me captive through the final page. I can't remember the last time I was so eager to indulge in words. There was something about the underlying taboo and the emotional turmoil on the surface that helped me look past the age difference and realize that Wavy was forced to grow up faster than normal and it wasn't because of Kellen. She was verbally abused by her mother, was forced to care for her little brother, and was in the company of drugs, sex, and alcohol. The only constant in her life was Kellen. He protected her, paid for her education, and in a some weird way.. was *the normal* part of her life. Their relationship started as guardian/child, but then as time progressed, so did the feelings and intimacy. It's not honorable to play off of a child's emotions and I want to think that Kellen tried his best to keep her at arms length. The problem was that Wavy felt alone and unwanted when Kellen pushed her away. Without him she had no one so he did what he did to keep her close. Yes, she was young and yes, it was very wrong... But in some twisted way, it was also very right. Wavy may have been young, but she was mature and knew what she wanted. Together they made their ugly lives into something wonderful.

It was a wild ride with danger and epic love. There were twists and turns and parts that I just couldn't believe. My heart ached and my gut wrenched. The words provoked so much emotion and for that I am thankful. I read to find the special reads of the world and this one was just that. It's in a league of it's own. Edgy and borderline just wrong. I found it to be flawlessly addictive and beautiful in the most awkward way, but I know not all readers will. If you are thinking about reading it I will leave you with this warning* Go into the book knowing that there are child/adult relations and if you can't stomach that then don't read it. Not all will appreciate the topic and graphic details, but I think with an open mind you can learn to be okay with it. 

"The letters seemed so wonderfully tragic to me. Each one a message he would never get. A note in a bottle, bobbing on the ocean. Lost" 

*Spoiler*

My only complaint would be the ending... I expected (or maybe just craved) a Romeo/Juliet kind of ending, but it never came. What did happen seemed a tad meh. The book builds up and feeds off intensity and emotion and near the end, I felt the writing completely switched tempo and voice. It lacked an emotional punch. I really would've loved to see a jaw dropping ending without a happily ever after. A tear-jerker ending would've left me reeling for sure. 

Losing Gabriel by Lurlene McDaniel

This emotionally-charged novel about three high school seniors who in the midst of planning their futures after high school are instead faced with present circumstances that force them to grasp what it means to make choices, take responsibility, and truly become an adult.

 

Lani Kennedy has dreamed of becoming a nurse since her cousin Arie died of leukemia. Nothing will stop her from getting into the local nursing program.

Dawson Burke hasn’t dealt with his mom’s death, and he’s angry at his dad for moving them to Windemere right before senior year. He grudgingly accepts that he must wait till graduation before he leaves.

Sloan Quentin can belt out a song and knows that her band is her ticket to fame and fortune. When she discovers that her boyfriend—the band’s lead guitarist—is cheating on her, she finds comfort—and revenge—in someone else’s arms.

When the lives of Lani, Dawson, and Sloan become entangled in unexpected ways, reality hits harder than anyone could have imagined.

AMAZON LINK- http://amzn.to/1X6KFxd

MY REVIEW

4/5 STARS

Thank you Penguin & Random House Kids for the ARC! 

Losing Gabriel wasn't at all what I expected. I think in the back of my brain I expected the cliche contemporary read with a roller coaster romance and an immature plot. However, McDaniel gave us a complex story with twists and turns, emotional turmoil, life struggles, and heart ache. The premise felt very mature and the overall outcome was quite beautiful. 

Lani, Dawson, and Sloan... They all went to school together yet never knew how much their lives would intertwine. The book starts with a brief intro to each character and then focuses on the romance between Sloan and Dawson. She wants to be a rockstar. He has college plans. All that changes though when something big happens between them. Eventually that something big tears them apart only to bring them together again. Enter Lani, the nursing student who finds Dawson attractive and Gabriel adorable. It is her job to protect them and when tragedy strikes her heart is shattered. It takes self exploration and forgiveness to put her back together again. 

The concept was great and overall I really enjoyed Losing Gabriel. I did however feel that the beginning and end were the strong points. The mid section was a tad slow and I didn't enjoy how the story jumped so much time. I also felt that the subject matter could be triggering to anyone who suffered abandonment or infertility. Sloan is a tough character to read about. Her behavior is despicable at times and truly, I never really grew to like her. Besides those minor things I think it is suitable for readers 15+ that enjoy books about life's struggles.

Hearts of Fire (Hearts #2) by L.H. Cosway

The Circus Spektakulär is proud to present Jack McCabe: Fire-breather, knife-thrower, risk-taker. My house burned down when I was just a boy, robbing me of both my parents.

Now I breathe fire, eat the poison that almost killed me.

Crowds come to see me night after night. Men for the spectacle, women for the thrill. I’m an oddity to be stared at and desired. With each flame I spit, I risk my life.

I wear scars on my body that will never go away, but the scars inside my head are far more difficult to overlook.

My brother doesn’t know me, and if I have it my way he never will.

Life was going exactly the way I’d planned until Lille came along. She wanted to run away with the circus, have an adventure, but this world was never meant for her.

I try to keep her safe, because she doesn’t know the dangers that are out here on the road. She doesn’t know the monsters that lurk behind the bright lights of the ring. In truth, I could be considered one of them.

We were fashioned from different cloths, never intended to mix. So I watch her. I try not to touch, even when her eyes invite me.

Join us in the Spiegeltent and let us give you a show. Allow my Lille to draw a picture for you in paint and sweat and skin.

The truest love is always the hardest to let in.

This is a standalone romance that tells the story of Jack McCabe, Jay Fields’ long lost, presumed dead brother. It is not necessary to have read Six of Hearts in order to enjoy Hearts of Fire.  

AMAZON LINK -> http://amzn.to/1HFsV2E

MY THOUGHTS:
4/5 Stars
Lately, I've been coming across so many books with similar premises, but Hearts of Fire was outside the box and in a league of it's own. It was captivating, magical, suspenseful, and romantic. I instantly found myself wrapped up in the storyline and consumed by the characters.

Jack was quite the book boyfriend... He was sexy in an emotionally damaged, fire breathing way. I loved him! At first I thought he was just a hot guy with lots of talent, but as the book progressed I started to realize that there was more to him than meets the eye. When he finally revealed his secrets, I felt pain and empathy in the deepest parts of my soul. My heart ached for him and I was so glad that in the end Lille helped him find a bit of peace.

Overall, I really enjoyed this read... I think I would have enjoyed it even more if there weren't as many sexual scenes in the second half, but I still enjoyed the other parts enough to rate this one a solid 4 stars.

If you like risqué, one of a kind reads... Hurry and one click this one! You won't be disappointed.

This one can be read as a standalone....

*I DID NOT READ BOOK #1 FIRST*

The Girl On The Train by Paula Hawkins

Instant #1 New York Times Bestseller“The Girl on the Train has more fun with unreliable narration than any chiller since Gone Girl. . . . [It] is liable to draw a large, bedazzled readership.”—The New York Times

“Like its train, the story blasts through the stagnation of these lives in suburban London and the reader cannot help but turn pages.”—The Boston Globe

“Gone Girl fans will devour this psychological thriller.”—People 

A debut psychological thriller that will forever change the way you look at other people's lives.

Rachel takes the same commuter train every morning. Every day she rattles down the track, flashes past a stretch of cozy suburban homes, and stops at the signal that allows her to daily watch the same couple breakfasting on their deck. She’s even started to feel like she knows them. “Jess and Jason,” she calls them. Their life—as she sees it—is perfect. Not unlike the life she recently lost.

And then she sees something shocking. It’s only a minute until the train moves on, but it’s enough. Now everything’s changed. Unable to keep it to herself, Rachel offers what she knows to the police, and becomes inextricably entwined in what happens next, as well as in the lives of everyone involved. Has she done more harm than good?

Compulsively readable, The Girl on the Train is an emotionally immersive, Hitchcockian thriller and an electrifying debut.

AMAZON LINK- http://amzn.to/1BjyaU9

MY THOUGHTS:
4/5 Stars

Oh goodness... I just finished this one and to be honest, I feel exhausted! It was complex, well thought out, and had tons of twists and turns. I really enjoyed the story, but it took me a few days to finish it because you had to pay attention to the simple parts. Each and every word played an intricate part in the story as a whole.

The Girl on The Train pulled me in with the creep factor and tangled me up in a web of lies. My mind was working double time trying to figure out what in the world was going on. The characters were so complex and weird... I started off thinking that Rachel was disgusting and hopeless, but then with a faint of heart, I started to feel really bad for her. She wasn't right in the head and I knew the secrets would slowly reveal themselves.

They compared this story to Gone Girl and I would say that's an accurate comparison. If you are looking for a book with sexy scenes though, this book probably isn't for you... Yes, there were intimate interactions, but the Author just grazed the surface by mentioning and moving along.

I would definitely recommend this book to readers looking for a good book that leaves you thinking.... What in the heck just happened? Please remember though, it is slow at times because in order to follow the story you need lots of details and the Author gives us LOTS of descriptions and little points you think are non sense at the time. They do play a crucial part in the end though!

Room for More by Beth Ehemann Review

Four years ago, my dreams were shattered in an instant. Three months ago, I found something I haven’t had in years. Hope. That hope came in the form of a sexy, carefree hockey player named Brody Murphy. He swooped in and won me over with his big heart and the way he cared for me…and my girls. When they look at him, they see the father they’ve never had. Now, my past and present are colliding and the outcome might just be too much for me to bear. Can I make the right decision when I’ve spent my whole life making the wrong ones?
AMAZON LINK- http://amzn.to/1idkb2P

 

 

 

My Thoughts:

5/5 Stars

 

Holy Goodness!!
I loved book 1 and this book was just as good.

 

Kacie is working at the hospital and runs into a ghost from the past.

Struggling with whether to tell Brody or not ... She is emotional and stressed out.

Just when she decides to tell him everything, it is too late.

Together they make the best decision for the girls and work on their future.

There is romance, struggles, and family problems.

It is addicting!!

 

Brody is just as delicious in this book. He deals with family issues and realizes just how in love with Kacie he is. At the end of the book you see one of the sweetest proposals ever!!! I don't want to spoil it... but SWOON... it was so unique, and cute, and sweet, and AMAZING.

I read this book in one night and crave more already.

HIGHLY RECOMMEND

Never Been Ready by J.L. Berg Review

Leah Morgan was done with men. After barely surviving a horrendous childhood, and a boyfriend who bailed when things got rough, Leah had given up on love. Then she met him, Hollywood’s new golden boy who suddenly had eyes only for her. She tried to convince herself that one night couldn’t hurt, but after six months, the memories of his mesmerizing gaze and searing touch still invaded her every thought.

Declan James had just one rule when it came to women. Keep it simple, and never linger. That all changed the moment he met Leah. Even across a crowded bar, he could tell she was different. Sweet, with just the right amount of sass, she made him break his golden rule and now he couldn’t walk away.

When casual becomes anything but, and emotions run deep, will Leah and Declan fight their fears, or let old insecurities tear them apart? When Declan’s past comes roaring back in a way neither of them could have expected, will they stand united or be torn apart by the challenges that lie ahead?

It was only supposed to be one night, but only forever will do

AMAZON LINK: http://amzn.to/1lziBQA

My Thoughts:

5/5 stars

*** I was given an ARC for honest review *** Holy Shit! - Another book to add to my all time favs! This book took me on a rollercoaster ride of emotions. I wasn't even on page 30 and tears ran down my cheek. I then swooned my new book husband Declan. Man what a freaking sex god hotty! Next, I went to the edge of my seat and started biting my nails. Leah's dad is a dick and I honestly wanted to punch him in the face every time she visited him. Laughter was another emotion this book brought out. I l...more *** I was given an ARC for honest review *** Holy Shit! - Another book to add to my all time favs! This book took me on a rollercoaster ride of emotions. I wasn't even on page 30 and tears ran down my cheek. I then swooned my new book husband Declan. Man what a freaking sex god hotty! Next, I went to the edge of my seat and started biting my nails. Leah's dad is a dick and I honestly wanted to punch him in the face every time she visited him. Laughter was another emotion this book brought out. I laughed hysterically at Leah and Declan's back and forth banter. The characters' personalities really shined throughout the entire book. Leah was beautiful, kind, caring, and bold. Declan started off cocky and arrogant, but left his guard down and let Leah in. I just loved them together. Their love was fun, real, and everlasting. Lastly, I was overwhelmed with joy. Watching Declan and Leah fall for one another was amazing, but to see Declan bond with Connor.... Wow! That tugged at my heartstrings. I can't say enough about this book. it brought everything to the table... suspense, romance, love, family, and friendships. The way Clare & Logan were added in made this book even better. I loved them in "When You're Ready" so to see their story again was wonderful.

Down London Road by Samantha Young Review

Johanna Walker is used to taking charge. But she’s about to meet someone who will make her lose control....

It has always been up to Johanna to care for her family, particularly her younger brother, Cole. With an absent father and a useless mother, she’s been making decisions based on what’s best for Cole for as long as she can remember. She even determines what men to date by how much they can provide for her brother and her, not on whatever sparks may—or may not—fly.

But with Cameron MacCabe, the attraction is undeniable. The sexy new bartender at work gives her butterflies every time she looks at him. And for once, Jo is tempted to put her needs first. Cam is just as obsessed with getting to know Jo, but her walls are too solid to let him get close enough to even try.

Then Cam moves into the flat below Jo’s, and their blistering connection becomes impossible to ignore. Especially since Cam is determined to uncover all of Jo’s secrets…even if it means taking apart her defenses piece by piece.

AMAZON LINK:http://amzn.to/MBe9Rv

 

My Thoughts

3.5/5 Stars

 

I had high expectations after reading On Dublin Street, but this book fell short.

 

I understand the Author had to set up the story with background info, but the beginning was slow. Once Cam started working at the bar I became sucked into the story. It had amazing scenes and just okay scenes. The connection and interaction between Cam and Jo was wonderful. I loved them as a couple. The friend parts and background stories... I could take or leave.

 

The emotional aspect of this book was realistic and gut wrenching. I felt for Jo every time she had to tend to her mother's drunkenness. The way her mother spoke to her was just absolutely hateful.

 

I loved the characters. Cole was a favorite. His relationship with Jo was heart warming. They took care of each other and it was very sweet.

 

The sex scenes were hot. The Author did a great job making you really feel the emotions the characters were feeling.

 

Overall the book was pretty good. I wish it was a fast page turner like On Dublin Street, but I still enjoyed it.

Unexpected Love by Charlene M. Martin

 

 

I stayed up until 3am devouring this one…

What a read!

 

This book is about a young woman who is about to finish High School and move away to colllege. She has a loving family, gets good grades, and has a hott bad boy wrapped around her finger. When she begins having erotic dreams about a guy she has never met she can’t help but crave more. She makes bold decisions, moves away to college, and experiences a life altering event. There is suspense, romance, heartbreak, and friendship.

 I promise you won’t be disappointed if you buy this book!

 

The Author did a fabulous job writing a classy erotic novel. She had just enough detail, an amazing storyline, and characters that everyone can relate to. The book has a beautiful intimate romance, but also has a heartbreak romance as well. There are twists and turns that keep you guessing throughout the entire book. I will say though…. the ending will make you sad it is over and have you begging for book 2.

 DEFINITELY a MUST READ!

 

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Afflicted by Sophie Monroe

Absolutely Intoxicating 5 out 5

(Tentative Release Date June 1st 2013)

I loved Battlescars, but this sequel blew me away!

Afflicted is Piper and Blake's story.  

 

 Blake is a Rockstar and Piper is a tattoo artist, together they are an intoxicating, yet confusing pair!While Blake faces issues with rejection, Piper deals with an alcoholic/ex military boyfriend. They try to deny their feelings for one another, but when they head to camp for a week... sparks re-ignite. When they get back to reality though Piper is torn between her feelings for Blake and her emotional connection with her boyfriend. The Author makes Alcoholism her focus and does a wonderful job describing what one has to go through in order to let go... Blake and Piper are on and off throughout the whole book so when a huge secret is revealed you are on the edge of your seat waiting to read about the characters reactions. How will they react? and What is the Secret? Read to find out!

The Author did a great job with this book! The emotions consume you and the characters had you rooting for them. I thought the storyline was well thought out and the plot was exciting. Just when you thought you had it all figured out, the Author added another twist...  I would recommend this book to everyone. It has romance, suspense, and most importantly it touches on real topics.
 

 

My Favorite Excerpt:

"Just as we were just pulling up to the cabin it started to rain heavily. Blake came

and acted as my human shield attempting to keep me dry. Once we made it inside he

pressed me up against the door claiming my mouth. I parted my lips allowing his tongue

to graze against mine igniting a fire inside me. Using my fingers to pull the hair on the

back of his head, since he seemed to like it I pushed him back to the bed. Straddling his

waist I took full control of the situation." - Piper