Black Flowers, White Lies by Yvonne Ventresca

Her father died before she was born, but Ella Benton knows they have a supernatural connection. Since her mother discourages these beliefs, Ella keeps her cemetery visits secret. But she may not be the only one with secrets. Ella’s mother might be lying about how Dad died sixteen years ago. Newfound evidence points to his death in a psychiatric hospital, not as a result of a tragic car accident as her mother always claimed. After a lifetime of just the two of them, Mom suddenly feels like a stranger.

When a handprint much like the one Ella left on her father’s tombstone mysteriously appears on the bathroom mirror, at first she wonders if Dad is warning her of danger as he did once before. If it’s not a warning, could her new too-good-to-be-true boyfriend be responsible for the strange occurrences? Or maybe it’s the grieving building superintendent whose dead daughter strongly resembles Ella? As the unexplained events become more frequent and more sinister, Ella becomes terrified about who—or what—might harm her.

Soon the evidence points to someone else entirely: Ella herself. What if, like her father, she’s suffering from a breakdown? In this second novel from award-winning author Yvonne Ventresca, Ella desperately needs to find answers, no matter how disturbing the truth might be.

Sky Pony Press, with our Good Books, Racehorse and Arcade imprints, is proud to publish a broad range of books for young readers—picture books for small children, chapter books, books for middle grade readers, and novels for young adults. Our list includes bestsellers for children who love to play Minecraft; stories told with LEGO bricks; books that teach lessons about tolerance, patience, and the environment, and much more. While not every title we publish becomes a New York Times bestseller or a national bestseller, we are committed to books on subjects that are sometimes overlooked and to authors whose work might not otherwise find a home.

AMAZON

MY THOUGHTS:

4/5 STARS

This was the perfect October read. It had a creep factor, tons of mystery, and a thrilling plot that held my attention through the final page. It had plenty of twists and turns and a jaw dropping reveal at the end. I found it to be a fast paced and filled with lust, charm, gore, and thrills. 

Ella's mom is about to get remarried and along with a stepdad comes a gorgeous stepbrother. He is almost too perfect. Good looks, great ideas, overly friendly... It's easy to get wrapped up in the charm. Especially when he is helping her figure out the mystery behind all of the crazy in her life. Shortly before the marriage... dark, twisted things begin to happen. Black flowers show up at the cemetery, muddy prints find their way to mirrors, bloody hand prints drip from the walls, and sick twisted secrets begin to surface... It all builds up and eventually brings Ella crumbling down with it. It pushes her to believe lies and it forces her to think the worst of herself. While there are a few suspects only one stood out to me. Unfortunately, I was wrong and left dumbfounded. I sort of expected it, but I definitely didn't want to believe it...

Looking back at the book as a whole... I am pleasantly surprised by the strong character development and rich content. The Author really packed a lot in 272 pages and for that I am thankful. I thought the story was unique and brought a lot to the table. It was diverse in that it had a little bit for each reader. Whether you like paranormal, romance, horror, thrillers, or ya contemporary you will find a piece to love in this story. I highly recommend it. Especially during the Halloween time!

Paper Hearts by Meg Wiviott

A novel in verse, Paper Hearts is the story of survivial, defiance, and friendship. Based on historical events about a group of girls who were slave laborers at the munitions factory in Auschwitz.

AMAZON LINK- http://amzn.to/1RNlTtD

MY REVIEW:

5/5 STARS

This was a poignant tale about survival, fear, hope, and friendship. Emotions seeped from the pages and deep rooted sympathy filled my soul. 

It was about two girls that ended up at Auschwitz and found friendship in one another. Vlatka and Fania were pulled from their homes and sent to a work camp filled with ugly hatred and brutal punishment. Both lost family and both craved freedom. Together they protected one another and helped instill hope in their hearts. Vlatka found strength in her purple blouse that cost a whole days ration and Fania found strength in a paper heart filled with encouragement. Both pieces were banned, but both girls would not let go. In the end it was the simple things, friendship, and bravery that carried them home. 

My heart was truly touched by this book. I found the brutality to be inspiring. It really made me feel appreciative and blessed for the most simple of things. I looked at my pen and paper completely differently. It no longer was just a piece of tree and an ink cylinder. It was a sliver of hope and power. A way to tell a historic story that should be shouted from the rooftops. I found the words insightful and important. I wanted to jump into the story and wrap my arms around the girls. I wanted to tell them how brave they were and how inspiring their story was. To know this was based on a true story just makes it that much more enthralling. I highly recommend it to every reader. This is a piece of history we should immerse ourselves in in order to always be reminded of how truly blessed we are...

The Kiss of Deception by Mary E. Pearson

A princess must find her place in a reborn world.

She flees on her wedding day.

She steals ancient documents from the Chancellor's secret collection.

She is pursued by bounty hunters sent by her own father.

She is Princess Lia, seventeen, First Daughter of the House of Morrighan.

The Kingdom of Morrighan is steeped in tradition and the stories of a bygone world, but some traditions Lia can't abide. Like having to marry someone she's never met to secure a political alliance.

Fed up and ready for a new life, Lia flees to a distant village on the morning of her wedding. She settles in among the common folk, intrigued when two mysterious and handsome strangers arrive—and unaware that one is the jilted prince and the other an assassin sent to kill her. Deceptions swirl and Lia finds herself on the brink of unlocking perilous secrets—secrets that may unravel her world—even as she feels herself falling in love.

AMAZON LINK- http://amzn.to/1UniqGn

MY REVIEW

3.5/5 STARS

I struggle with reviewing this book only because of it's pace. As much as I loved the royal premise and fantasy elements, I just could not get over how slow the story was... It's not the fact that the book was 450 pages. Its the fact that in all those pages, barely anything happened. Cut the page count in half, delete repetitive scenes, and erase the over detail and this book would have been amazing. I'm afraid the Author just overdid it. 

While the scenic descriptions added to the overall feel of the book, I did not need to hear about the water 10 times. I also didn't need to know everyone's every move. I like mystery in my stories and with this one you get burdened by each character's inner battles. You also get a major twister that will make you scratch your head and think wth? I'm not sure where it came from or if I missed hints leading up to it, but it blindsided me and I was confused to say the least. Assassin... Prince... ? 

Besides the tedious overkill, I enjoyed the love triangle and the dialogue. With that being said... I needed MORE dialogue. When the characters interacted the pages flew by. I was intrigued by attitudes and consumed by the passion of words. I loved the interaction between all of the characters. I really connected to the story as I read their conversations. The dialogue is sparse though... As stated before it's a lot of first person emotional thoughts and feelings. It didn't kill the story for me, but it didn't make it any better either. 

I think I struggle with this one because I've read so many similar reads... Can I say this one stands out? No. Can I say I'll read the sequel? Yes. I liked where the story was going and still have a cravings that need met. I need to know what happens to Rafe and Lia. Kaden could go MIA though. His character is meh at most. 

All in all. It was a slow read that pulled you away from reality and dropped you into a high fantasy world with lots of descriptions. I liked the plot and am interested in the romance. I recommend it to readers that like slow build stories with a intricate fantasy world.

Phoenix by Elizabeth Richards

Ash and Natalie are just starting to build a life together when things in the United Sentry States go from bad to worse. Ash and Natalie find themselves at the center of turmoil when dictator Purian Rose threatens Natalie’s life unless Ash votes in favor of Rose’s Law—a law that will send Darklings and other dissenters to a deadly concentration camp known as the Tenth.

When Ash can’t bring himself to trade Natalie’s life for those of millions of Darklings, her fate is sealed. Enter Elijah Theroux, the handsome Bastet boy Natalie once saved from her mother’s labs, where he’d been experimented on and tortured. It was his venom the Sentry used to create the lethal Golden Haze, the heart of the government conspiracy that led to Black City’s uprising and Ash’s rebirth as the Phoenix, the face of the rebellion. Elijah is back and Ash doesn’t like him; it’s clear he’s taken with Natalie, and Ash fears she may have feelings for him as well.

But Elijah also may have the answer to taking down Purian Rose for good—a powerful weapon called the Ora. Ash, Natalie and Elijah just have to escape Black City undetected to find it. But fleeing the city and finding this weapon (if it even exists) are easier said than done, and the quest could tear Ash and Natalie apart, even pushing them into the arms of others.

This enthralling sequel to Black City is just as absorbing, delicious and steamy as the first book, leaving readers hungry for the series conclusion. 

AMAZON LINK- http://amzn.to/1rvMlmO

MY REVIEW:
5/5 STARS

This series is one of my favorites! I loved Black City and Phoenix did not disappoint!

It started right where book 1 left off and the intensity level was off the charts. An engagement, a threat, & a kidnapping all take place within a few days. Purian Rose *or Sentry Hitler* plans to send the darklings to a new place. He wants to work some and execute the rest. His main goal is to be rid of Ash and the rebellion. He wants the darklings gone and he uses each person within reach as a pawn in his own game. 

Natalie and Ash plan to escape before they are taken... Enter *Elijah* ... That's right he's back! Him and his unique looks and arrogant personality is chasing after the affection of Natalie. Not necessarily as a love interest, but his flirty persona gets him in all kinds of trouble. I never expected a love triangle and to be frank, I'm not usually a fan, but holy crap! Ash and Elijah are too much hotness for one book. Their jealousy steams up the pages and brings out all kinds of emotion. Add in sexual tension, monsters, danger, and one intense betrayal and you get an awesome book!

The story line is the 100 meets Hunger Games meets Divergent. It's action packed with a romeo/juliet romance. There are twists and turns along the way and of course a cliffy ending. I couldn't turn the pages fast enough. I was so consumed by the plot and intrigued by the possibilities... My heart raced, my stomach clenched, and my mind was boggled. I definitely recommend this book to all readers! The Author is a creative genius and the writing is top of the line. 

'Til Death Do Us Part by Amanda Quick

The author of the New York Times bestseller Garden of Liesreturns to Victorian London in an all-new novel of deadly obsession. 

Calista Langley operates an exclusive “introduction” agency in Victorian London, catering to respectable ladies and gentlemen who find themselves alone in the world. But now, a dangerously obsessed individual has begun sending her trinkets and gifts suitable only for those in deepest mourning—a black mirror, a funeral wreath, a ring set with black jet stone. Each is engraved with her initials.

Desperate for help and fearing that the police will be of no assistance, Calista turns to Trent Hastings, a reclusive author of popular crime novels. Believing that Calista may be taking advantage of his lonely sister, who has become one of her clients, Trent doesn’t trust her. Scarred by his past, he’s learned to keep his emotions at bay, even as an instant attraction threatens his resolve.

But as Trent and Calista comb through files of rejected clients in hopes of identifying her tormentor, it becomes clear that the danger may be coming from Calista’s own secret past—and that only her death will satisfy the stalker... 

AMAZON -> http://amzn.to/1QtnBzu

MY REVIEW

4/5 STARS

This was my first read by Amanda Quick and I was pleasantly surprised. It was rich in historical feels, had an intriguing plot line, and told the story of two unique characters. There was danger, romance, and plenty of mystery. I would call it a romantic Sherlock Holmes of the sorts.

Trent and Calista are entangled in a dangerous web of murders and have to go digging in order to save one another. They search for clues that will point them to the killer, but with each step closer, another murder arises that pulls them in a new direction. I was on the edge of my seat racking brain trying to figure out who it was... Unfortunately, I failed.

What intrigued me most about this book was Trent and his past. I loved that he was scarred and I couldn't wait to hear his story. After I got his answers though my interest in the story faded a smidge. I still enjoyed the plot, but at times it did feel drug out. We get lots of filler information... which isn't a bad thing because we need it, but it did bring the pace down a bit. I think secretly I wanted Trent to be connected to the murder. Now that would have been quite the twister... Plus, it would have put the focus on Trent where I felt it deserved to be. Don't get me wrong I liked Calista, I just found her to be a bit boring. It could have been the time period that made her more reserved and underwhelming, but something about her just didn't work for me.

Overall, I enjoyed this story and would recommend it to other readers. It was quick to pull me into another time period and Trent held me attention through the final page.. I think historical/thriller romance fans will definitely enjoy it. 

Nearly Gone by Elle Cosimano

He revved the engine and I held tight with both hands as the bike lurched forward, We zoomed down streets, leaning into the curves, wind whipping over me. I pressed into his back until all I could smell was the leather tang of his jacket, and all I could taste was the sweet thrill of flying away.

Keeping secrets is second nature to Nearly Boswell. Living in a trailer park outside Washington, DC, with a mom who works as an exotic dancer, she knows better than to share anything that would make her a target with her classmates. Only her best friends know about her obsession with the personal ads, and Nearly hasn't told anyone about the emotions she can taste when she brushes against someone's skin.

Then a serial killer goes on a murder spree and starts attacking students, leaving cryptic ads in the newspaper. Nearly might be the one person who can put all the clues together, and if she doesn't figure it out soon - she'll be next.

Big, dark, scary, and brilliantly plotted, Nearly Gone will leave you guessing until the very end.

AMAZON LINK- http://amzn.to/264BAHL

MY REVIEW

4/5 STARS

If I had to describe Nearly Gone using one word, I'd say edgy.

This book literally had me on the edge of my seat. The plot was so twisty and the mystery sucked me right in. I was racking my brain trying to figure out who the killer was and well... I didn't even come close. The Author is a pro at thought manipulation. She pushed us one way and was quick to pull us back. There was intrigue, romance, thrill, and danger. I wanted a romantic thriller and that's exactly what I got. 

Nearly is addicted to personal ads. Every week she finds herself consumed by words hoping to find a note from her long lost father. It's an innocent hobby that quickly turns into a dangerous game. Before she knows it she is communicating with a killer through the newspaper. Each week there is another clue and each week Nearly is too late... Another person connected to her is murdered. She seeks the help of the police only to end up as the lead suspect with a hot bad boy on her tail. The bad boy, Reece, is a narc. He is sent to follow her and figure out how she is connected to the murders. She knows what he is and vows to steer clear but finds herself caught up in his good looks and his kind heart. In order to get answers they start working together... A swoon worthy romance forms and secrets are revealed. 

I really liked this book a lot. The writing was top of the line and the story kept me glued to the pages. I found the characters to be relatable and well developed. I definitely recommend it to all readers who enjoy danger and good girl/bad boy romance. 

The Wrath and The Dawn by Renee Ahdieh

A sumptuous and epically told love story inspired by A Thousand and One Nights

Every dawn brings horror to a different family in a land ruled by a killer. Khalid, the eighteen-year-old Caliph of Khorasan, takes a new bride each night only to have her executed at sunrise. So it is a suspicious surprise when sixteen-year-old Shahrzad volunteers to marry Khalid. But she does so with a clever plan to stay alive and exact revenge on the Caliph for the murder of her best friend and countless other girls. Shazi's wit and will, indeed, get her through to the dawn that no others have seen, but with a catch . . . she’s falling in love with the very boy who killed her dearest friend.

She discovers that the murderous boy-king is not all that he seems and neither are the deaths of so many girls. Shazi is determined to uncover the reason for the murders and to break the cycle once and for all.

AMAZON LINK- http://amzn.to/1qGaO8h

MY THOUGHTS:
4.5/5 Stars

"Love- is a shade of what I feel."

That quote from the book pretty much sums up my feelings. 

The Wrath and The Dawn had a way of burying deep within my bones... The writing was so good and the use of metaphors and words to tell such an intense, passionate tale was captivating to say the least. I wasn't sure what to expect, but I know I wasn't expecting to fall in love with so many characters. Each one played an intricate role and each one had their own back story. 

Khalid is the King and each night he takes a new wife only to have her executed the following dawn. Shazi's cousin falls prey to this and that's when see decides to volunteer to be the next wife. She goes into the palace with a game plan- Destroy the King and get revenge. The only problem is that when she begins to lore Khalid in, she also lets her guard down. New feelings quickly arise to the surface... She tries to push them away, but the more she learns, the more she falls. Khalid isn't the only one that wants Shazi though... Tariq, her friend/romance from the past is also on a mission. A mission of protection and love. He doesn't expect to find what he does, but in the end he wants the King gone and Shazi for his own.

It was a tangle of romance, magic, and mystery. The romance seeped from the pages and the magic lingered in the background just waiting to be exposed. Shazi used her web of words to save her own life and Khalid opened his heart to stop his monster ways. Together they were a beautiful, vulnerable mess. It was such an aw inspiring tale about a tragic curse. It had life lessons hidden in the paragraphs and inspiration in the sentences.

I need more! Thank goodness the sequel releases in just a few weeks because after that ending I have a whole list of questions. What is this magic? Will Shazi and Khalid be reunited? How will Khalid protect his people? Like I said, so many questions... Surprisingly though, the book did feel complete. I was happy with how it all played out and now can't wait to see where the Author takes us next. 

I highly recommend this book! My only tip would be to nickname Shahrzad, Shazi ,from the beginning. Let's be honest, we don't know how to pronounce these names and it can be quite frustrating trying to sound them out multiple times per page. It was hard for me in the beginning, but after the nickname was introduced it was smooth sailing. I became glued to the pages and couldn't wait for more. 

Rebel of The Sands by Alwyn Hamilton

She’s more gunpowder than girl—and the fate of the desert lies in her hands.

Mortals rule the desert nation of Miraji, but mystical beasts still roam the wild and barren wastes, and rumor has it that somewhere, djinni still practice their magic. But there's nothing mystical or magical about Dustwalk, the dead-end town that Amani can't wait to escape from. 

Destined to wind up "wed or dead," Amani’s counting on her sharpshooting skills to get her out of Dustwalk. When she meets Jin, a mysterious and devastatingly handsome foreigner, in a shooting contest, she figures he’s the perfect escape route. But in all her years spent dreaming of leaving home, she never imagined she'd gallop away on a mythical horse, fleeing the murderous Sultan's army, with a fugitive who's wanted for treason. And she'd never have predicted she'd fall in love with him...or that he'd help her unlock the powerful truth of who she really is. 

Amazon Link - http://amzn.to/1VRCX87

MY THOUGHTS:

4.5/5 STARS

I take pride in searching for the unique reads of the world... The ones that pull you into the words and away from reality. Books that capture your soul and leave you feeling like you left a piece of you behind with the last page. Rebel of the Sands was one of those reads... It was quick to capture my attention and left me craving more long after the final page. What really caught my attention as a reader was the how vivid each scene was. I could really picture the gritty sands, makeshift buildings, and creatures painted in swirls of light and dark. I could feel the air from the horses toss my hair every which way and I could feel the love bloom deep within my heart.

The characters were a huge part of the book and I loved each one in a different way. Amani was a heroine that all will learn to appreciate! She was strong and fierce... Manipulative, but in the best way possible. She knew how to shoot a gun and was able to capture the readers attention with her softer side. Jin was the mysterious guy with an unexpected twist... He had secrets and was on a dangerous journey. When him and Amani meet it turns into a middle eastern "Bonnie & Clyde'ish" scenerio. Together they face mythological creatures and fight for a better world.

For those wondering... Yes, there was romance and no it wasn't instalove. It was a gradual slow burn relationship that fed off of danger. It was passionate and quirky and definitely swoon worthy!

All in all, I really loved this story! I enjoyed the twists and turns and found myself unable to stop turning the pages. For the most part I thought it was an awesome debut... Yeah, some of the story was bit scattered and it did seem a tad rushed towards the end, but those things didn't take away from all of the wonderful things that happened. I thought the Author did a great job at creating a unique world with characters that were captivating and fun to read about. I can't wait for the sequel!

Glass Sword by Victoria Aveyard

If there’s one thing Mare Barrow knows, it’s that she’s different.

Mare Barrow’s blood is red—the color of common folk—but her Silver ability, the power to control lightning, has turned her into a weapon that the royal court tries to control. 

The crown calls her an impossibility, a fake, but as she makes her escape from Maven, the prince—the friend—who betrayed her, Mare uncovers something startling: she is not the only one of her kind.

Pursued by Maven, now a vindictive king, Mare sets out to find and recruit other Red-and-Silver fighters to join in the struggle against her oppressors. 

But Mare finds herself on a deadly path, at risk of becoming exactly the kind of monster she is trying to defeat. 

Will she shatter under the weight of the lives that are the cost of rebellion? Or have treachery and betrayal hardened her forever?

The electrifying next installment in the Red Queen series escalates the struggle between the growing rebel army and the blood-segregated world they’ve always known—and pits Mare against the darkness that has grown in her soul.

Amazon -> http://amzn.to/21Cf7g5

MY THOUGHTS:

2.5/5 STARS

I can't believe I'm saying this, but Glass Sword was just not for me... It was one of my highly anticipated reads of the year and it was so painfully boring that it wasn't even funny... Reading should not feel like a chore, but with this one it felt like just that. The plot was underdeveloped... I craved excitement. The romance was basically non existent... I actually wanted Maven back? & the story was so slow paced that it took me two weeks to finish it. I wanted to be blown away and I expected more since Red Queen was awesome, but this one just felt lack luster to me. I'm sure others will eat up Aveyard's words, but I wanted to close the book and mark it DNF.

I did get some good feels in certain scenes, but for the most part it was just a bunch of information that I didn't care about. Mare came off as a royal b* and I actually felt bad for everyone that had to deal with her. In Red Queen she was an empowering leader... Well don't expect that in this sequel. She was the puppeteer controlling everyone around her. She completely disconnected with her family showing no emotion at all and was constantly trying to manipulate people with her words. I couldn't believe how much I disliked her in this book. It was quite sad because I was actually hoping for a new love to get the focus off of her... Maybe Cameron and Cal? Now that would have been an awesome twist.

All in all... This one just didn't do it for me. I hope that other readers love it, but my advice is... If you loved Red Queen, lower all expectations.

The Storyteller by Antonia Michaelis

Anna and Abel couldn’t be more different. They are both seventeen and in their last year of school, but while Anna lives in a nice old town house and comes from a well-to-do family, Abel, the school drug dealer, lives in a big, prisonlike tower block at the edge of town. Anna is afraid of him until she realizes that he is caring for his six-year-old sister on his own. Fascinated, Anna follows the two and listens as Abel tells little Micha the story of a tiny queen assailed by dark forces. It’s a beautiful fairy tale that Anna comes to see has a basis in reality. Abel is in real danger of losing Micha to their abusive father and to his own inability to make ends meet. Anna gradually falls in love with Abel, but when his “enemies” begin to turn up dead, she fears she has fallen for a murderer. Has she?

Award-winning author Antonia Michaelis moves in a bold new direction with her latest novel: a dark, haunting, contemporary story that is part mystery, part romance, and part melodrama.

Amazon Link- http://amzn.to/1ROjjXh

MY THOUGHTS:

4.5/5 Stars

This book reminded me of a beautifully crafted mandala. It had intricate details, sharp edges, and was painted in many different colors. I wasn't sure about the fairy tale mixing with reality theme, but in the end I saw with clarity why the Author chose that path. It was inspirational and foretelling. It proved that even the darkest shadow can find light and even the ugliest things can have beauty. It showed that death doesn't have to be the end and that sometimes in order to start over you have to let go. 

Abel is the school mystery from the wrong side of the tracks. Anna is the straight laced girl from the right side of the tracks. Micha is a free spirit with a troubled past. When their lives overlap, a fairy tale begins. A very dark and very twisted fairy tale with many ups and downs. Abel, Anna, & Micha's story ripped my heart out and I'm now suffering from a hardcore book hangover. Did I expect a wild ending? Absolutely, but when I was reading... I had no idea in what way the story would go. I was a tad bored and then all of sudden I felt reality slipping through my fingertips. I was grasping sand and falling into the book heart first. I won't lie and say the experience felt good, but the hurt I felt just made my reading experience that much better. Every gut wrenching word led up to those final moments and so many feels were felt. I've never had such an intense love/hate relationship with a character before. One minute I was swooning over the romance and the next I was sick to my stomach with possibilities. Each character and every piece of evidence played an important role in a sick tragic tale and I loved to hate every minute of it. 

I highly recommend this book to all readers with an open mind. There are some sensitive scenes so be prepared for the worse.

The Book of You by Claire Kendal

A terrifying psychological thriller about obsession and power, perfect for fans of Gone Girl and Before I Go to Sleep.

Clarissa is becoming more and more frightened of her colleague, Rafe. He won’t leave her alone, and he refuses to take no for an answer. He is always there.

Being selected for jury service is a relief. The courtroom is a safe haven, a place where Rafe can’t be. But as a violent tale of kidnap and abuse unfolds, Clarissa begins to see parallels between her own situation and that of the young woman on the witness stand.

Realizing that she bears the burden of proof, Clarissa unravels the twisted, macabre fairytale that Rafe has spun around them – and discovers that the ending he envisions is more terrifying than she could have imagined. 

MY REVIEW:

3/5 Stars

This book was intriguing, mysterious, and creepy. It's about a crazy one night stand that begins with rape and ends with a crazy stalker. The guy is straight lunatic I tell you! He follows her everywhere and leaves her creepy photos at her doorstep. While she tries to uncover secrets and remain alive, he digs deeper into her privacy. He invades her friendships, her workplace, and her casual day to day life. She can't get away from him. He is always there and it takes extreme measures to finally be rid of him.

While I really liked this story... there was a lot of redundancy that became boring at times. Each journal entry was another encounter of him lurking and her noting. Most occurrences were similar. I think I really craved difference. More action... More intensity... 

All in all it was a well written book with a twisty plot. I recommend it to fans of You by Caroline Kepnes.

Fire by Kristin Cashore

It is not a peaceful time in the Dells. The young King Nash clings to his throne while rebel lords in the north and south build armies to unseat him. The mountains and forests are filled with spies and thieves and lawless men.

This is where Fire lives. With a wild, irresistible appearance and hair the color of flame, Fire is the last remaining human monster. Equally hated and adored, she had the unique ability to control minds, but she guards her power, unwilling to steal the secrets of innocent people. Especially when she has so many of her own.

Then Prince Brigan comes to bring her to King City, The royal family needs her help to uncover the plot against the king. Far away from home, Fire begins to realize there's more to her power than she ever dreamed. Her power could save the kingdom.

If only she weren't afraid of becoming the monster her father was.

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

MY THOUGHTS:
5/5 STARS

No words I write will do this book enough justice. Cashore has a way of creating stories that suck you in and leave you breathless at times... Epic fantasies that bring suspense, intrigue, and swoon worthy romance. I didn't think it was possible to love a book more than Graceling, but this one topped it! The feels were gut wrenching and heart warming. It was a world full of vivid color and subtle darkness.

Fire is a monster in the most beautiful way. All eyes are drawn to her and while that may flatter many, Fire deflects attention at all cause. She refuses to use her powers unless it's self defense and will cover her monster appearance whenever out in public. The monsters are drawn to her and danger surrounds her. She never expects to be summoned by the King, but when she is, her world is turned upside down. She starts to become comfortable in her own skin and learns that she can use her power as not only a weapon, but also a helpful tool. It is there at King's City that she finds what she didn't know she was looking for... Love.

This book was unlike anything I've ever read. It was creative and unique, with a storyline that swept me off my feet. When the book was open, reality was dimmed. It was truly all consuming. I found myself unable to put it down. I was wrapped up in the love triangle (quadrangle?) and couldn't wait to see what would happen in the end.

Now with all that gushing out of the way I will say this... Some of the material is sensitive. There are hints of rape and scenes of physical abuse. This is all needed though to create the book's world so please give it a chance. I know you won't be able to stop once you start. It's fantastic! A MUST READ!

The Invasion of the Tearling by Erika Johansen

In this riveting sequel to the national bestseller The Queen of the Tearling, the evil kingdom of Mortmesne invades the Tearling, with dire consequences for Kelsea and her realm. With each passing day, Kelsea Glynn is growing into her new responsibilities as Queen of the Tearling. By stopping the shipments of slaves to the neighboring kingdom of Mortmesne, she crossed the Red Queen, a brutal ruler whose power derives from dark magic, who is sending her fearsome army into the Tearling to take what is hers. And nothing can stop the invasion. But as the Mort army draws ever closer, Kelsea develops a mysterious connection to a time before the Crossing, and she finds herself relying on a strange and possibly dangerous ally: a woman named Lily, fighting for her life in a world where being female can feel like a crime. The fate of the Tearling —and that of Kelsea’s own soul—may rest with Lily and her story, but Kelsea may not have enough time to find out. In this dazzling sequel, Erika Johansen brings back favorite characters, including the Mace and the Red Queen, and introduces unforgettable new players, adding exciting layers to her multidimensional tale of magic, mystery, and a fierce young heroine.  I am in the midst of a serious book hangover. How is it possible that I loved this book, but have no clue what in the heck just happened. Talk about a wild ride with an epic mind mess ending. I'm going to be up front and honest... If you're expecting the same feel as book one, you won't get it. This book was about the same characters and followed a similar plot, but the Author added a twist. A dark pre-crossing story that will leave you white knuckling the pages. It was brutal, with graphiAMAZON LINK- http://amzn.to/1PnuNAO   MY THOUGHTS:  4.5/5 Stars   I am in the midst of a serious book hangover. How is it possible that I loved this book, but have no clue what in the heck just happened. Talk about a wild ride with an epic mind mess ending. I'm going to be up front and honest... If you're expecting the same feel as book one, you won't get it. This book was about the same characters and followed a similar plot, but the Author added a twist... A dark pre-crossing story that will leave you white knuckling the pages. It was brutal, with graphic scenes (not suitable for the light hearted). Lily was physically abused and sexually assaulted. She grasped for her life and in the end rebelled because she believed in the "Better World". I loved Lily so hard and for me that was the problem... Nearing halfway I found myself more interested in her story than in Kelsea's. I sympathized with her where I couldn't for the Queen. I was really hoping for a merge or a clear connecting piece that brought the two together, but still after the last page, I am left baffled and confused. I kind of, sort of get it, but then again I don't. For me the two stories were missing that linking piece... The information that makes your jaw drop and think OMG now I understand. With all of that being said it was still an amazing book. I liked the individual stories and found myself loving Aisa. I look forward to reading more about her in book 3. Also, I need more of the Fetch too because he was clearly missing in this story. In case you missed that... I need more FETCH to move forward. Yeah, Pen was okay, but Kelsea wants the Fetch. Please give him to her... Thanks in advance ;)

Black Iris by Leah Raeder

The next dark and sexy romantic suspense novel from the USA Today bestselling author of Unteachable.

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.

AMAZON LINK- http://amzn.to/1HVL2zL

MY THOUGHTS:
5/5 Stars

*NETGALLEY REVIEW WITH NO SPIOILERS*
Black Iris isn't a book that can be easily be summed up without giving away too much. The story was complex and unlike any other story I've ever read. It was risqué, emotional, intense, dangerous, romantic, and at times, a complete twisted up mystery. It switches back and forth from past to present to show you how everything came into play. Crucial details are revealed and important characters are introduced. The plot is one that will make your mind hurt in the best way possible. It will strip away at everything you believed and make you feel completely different. I was on the edge of my seat for most of the book... The pages couldn't turn fast enough. I wasn't sure how everything would come together, but I never expected the outcome we got. When I finally finished I felt a weight being lifted off my shoulders. I could finally breathe again. My tense body fell relaxed and mind felt sane again.

Honestly it was like a 1,000 piece puzzle. Each word came together to a form a slightly flawed, slightly messed up... absolutely captivating picture. My heart went out to these fictional characters. Yeah, they were emotionally unstable and yeah, at times I wanted to punch each one, but somehow, someway... They managed to capture my heart and fill my body with sympathy.

It was an intense subject and the Author's writing was flawless. It felt raw and vulnerable. While at times the story became jagged and sharp, it somehow remained smooth and flowing. I did question how Leah went from writing Unteachable to this dark, heavy story and after I read the acknowledgements I understood. My hat goes off to her and anyone else who lived similar scenarios. Sadly, this happens a lot more than we would like to think. It opened my eyes and made me feel things I didn't feel before reading. I am utterly head over heels for this book and quite frankly I now have a girl crush on Leah Raeder.

I definitely recommend this one to every reader out there. It is a MUST READ.  

Do Not Disturb by A.R. Torre

Equal parts Dexter and 50 Shades, this is the eagerly awaited follow-up to the award winning erotic thriller, The Girl in 6E, by A.R. Torre.

My rules:

1. Don't leave the apartment.

2. Never let anyone in.

3. Don't kill anyone.

The rules were simple and I broke them.

Now I must face the consequences.

Everyone else must face me.

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

 

MY THOUGHTS:

5/5 Stars
A.R. Torre did it again... Another heart racing read that was packed with sexy and suspense.

 

Do Not Disturb continues where the first book left off. Deanna is feeling different though... Almost, free. She starts pushing the limits and even gives in to temptation and leaves the apartment. Her doctor doesn't think it's a good idea, but hell what does he know... When she meets a new customer that pushes the limits, her world begins to slowly turn upside down. He wants to meet in person and she wants nothing to do with it. What she doesn't know is Marcus is dangerous and doesn't take no very well. He sets out to uncover all of Deanna's secrets and in the end comes face to face with the devil herself.

 

Gosh, this is my go-to Author for obvious reasons. Her writing is raw and intense. It captures a reader's attention and slowly and intricately weaves into their mind.... consuming and controlling with dark erotic words. I loved this book so much. While it was similar to book one, it brought a unique twist that made you feel like you were meeting Deanna for the first time. She was different in this book... Still a bad ass, but also a tad softer in a hard way? If that makes any sense... Her attitude was still dark, but her feelings were gray. Jeremy has rooted in her heart and even her hacker seems to pull out emotion. It really added to her character and made me love her even more.

 

Now, let me say erotica is not my preferred genre, but A.R. knows how to write sex scenes that make us think. Each seductive word is meant to manipulate. If I could... I would unread this series just so I could start it again for the first time. It was truly that good!

Highly recommend it to all readers!

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*