Black City by Elizabeth Richards

A dark and tender post-apocalyptic love story set in the aftermath of a bloody war 

In a city where humans and Darklings are now separated by a high wall and tensions between the two races still simmer after a terrible war, sixteen-year-olds Ash Fisher, a half-blood Darkling, and Natalie Buchanan, a human and the daughter of the Emissary, meet and do the unthinkable--they fall in love. Bonded by a mysterious connection that causes Ash's long-dormant heart to beat, Ash and Natalie first deny and then struggle to fight their forbidden feelings for each other, knowing if they're caught, they'll be executed--but their feelings are too strong. 

When Ash and Natalie then find themselves at the center of a deadly conspiracy that threatens to pull the humans and Darklings back into war, they must make hard choices that could result in both their deaths.

- http://amzn.to/1IEVFMd

MY THOUGHTS:

5/5 STARS

This book blew me away. It was fast paced, edgy, suspenseful, and romantic in the most intense way. It's a dystopian that involves a war between humans and darklings or more like a war between a few "well off" humans and everyone else. Natalie (the main character) is in an unfortunate position because she is the emissasary's daughter. Therefore, she is expected to be anti-darklings. She is torn on what to trust though and when Ash comes into her life her views are completely altered. She starts to feel something she shouldn't. She finds herself wrapped up in a forbidden relationship. Her heart wants one thing, but her mind knows that that one thing is a very bad idea. It's a dangerous kind of love that ends in turmoil or.... just another war.

I honestly can't say enough good things. I can't believe I left this book sitting unread for months... That ending rocked my world and wrecked my sanity. I became emotionally connected to the characters for sure. I felt bitter at times, but overall I mostly felt entranced. Black City was a book to not miss. It was unique and beautiful. I literally could've sat and highlighted quotes for days. The Author definitely had a way with words. She captured my heart and pulled me into the story. Even though it's over I still want to be within the pages. I need book two... like now. 

MUST READ EVERYONE- LOVED IT!

The Family by Marissa Kennerson

Just like any average seventeen year old, Twig loves her family. She has a caring mother and a controlling father. Her brothers are sisters are committed to her family’s prosperity…

All one hundred and eighty three of them.

Twig lives in the Family, a collective society located in the rainforest of Costa Rica. The Family members coexist with the values of complete openness and honesty, and a shared fear of contagious infection in the outside world.

So when Adam, their Father, prophet, and savior, announces that Twig will be his new bride, she is overjoyed and honored. But when an injury forces her to leave the grounds, Twig finds that the world outside is not necessarily as toxic as she was made to believe. When she meets Leo, an American boy with a killer smile, she begins to question everything about her life within the Family, and the cult to which she belongs.

But when it comes to your Family, you don’t always get a choice.

-  http://amzn.to/1NVzKCG 

MY THOUGHTS:

5/5 STARS

I needed something different... A change of pace from my normal reading, and this one provided just that. Talk about a whole new book world. The Family crawled under my skin and burrowed deep within my soul. It uprooted thoughts and left my feelings uneasy. 

The life of the collective is tragic and brutal. Basically everyone worships Adam, the leader and thinks they deserve punishment when they don't follow "the rules".They all believe that infection will consume them if they leave and are very content in confinement. All but the main character Twig that is... When she gets into an accident and is taken to a hospital all her views are altered. Nothing is as she expected. People explain how infection spreads and helps her to see that maybe everything she knows is based on lies. When she returns to the collective she struggles with the new found knowledge and starts to crave whats on the outside. Through brutal punishments and belittling, Twig tries to hold it together long enough to hopefully be freed. It's a long shot, but she doesn't give up through the final page.

I'm not even sure how the Author came up with such a gut wrenching, real feeling story. I felt like I was trapped in the jungle with Twig. Tears streamed down my face at one part and I had to stop reading to catch my breath at the end. It was all consuming. My heart ached for the lifestyle she lived. It made me appreciate my freedom and it opened my eyes to what may be living within our world. The writing was great and the story line was fast paced. I definitely recommend it to every reader with an open mind. 

*A slight warning though....* You will want the next book- There is a slight cliffy.

The Queen of the Tearling by Erika Johansen

An untested young princess must claim her throne, learn to become a queen, and combat a malevolent sorceress in an epic battle between light and darkness in this spectacular debut—the first novel in a trilogy.

Young Kelsea Raleigh was raised in hiding after the death of her mother, Queen Elyssa, far from the intrigues of the royal Keep and in the care of two devoted servants who pledged their lives to protect her. Growing up in a cottage deep in the woods, Kelsea knows little of her kingdom's haunted past . . . or that its fate will soon rest in her hands.

Long ago, Kelsea's forefathers sailed away from a decaying world to establish a new land free of modern technology. Three hundred years later, this feudal society has divided into three fearful nations who pay duties to a fourth: the powerful Mortmesne, ruled by the cunning Red Queen. Now, on Kelsea's nineteenth birthday, the tattered remnants of the Queen's Guard—loyal soldiers who protect the throne—have appeared to escort the princess on a perilous journey to the capital to ascend to her rightful place as the new Queen of the Tearling.

Though born of royal blood and in possession of the Tear sapphire, a jewel of immense power and magic, Kelsea has never felt more uncertain of her ability to rule. But the shocking evil she discovers in the heart of her realm will precipitate an act of immense daring, throwing the entire kingdom into turmoil—and unleashing the Red Queen's vengeance. A cabal of enemies with an array of deadly weapons, from crimson-caped assassins to the darkest blood magic, plots to destroy her. But Kelsea is growing in strength and stealth, her steely resolve earning her loyal allies, including the Queen's Guard, led by the enigmatic Lazarus, and the intriguing outlaw known simply as "the Fetch."

Kelsea's quest to save her kingdom and meet her destiny has only just begun. Riddled with mysteries, betrayals, and treacherous battles, Kelsea's journey is a trial by fire that will either forge a legend . . . or destroy her.  

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

 

MY THOUGHTS:
4.5/5 Stars

 

There are some books that just capture you from page one and pull you deep within the pages. This one did just that. I was consumed by the regal world and caught up in the intense storyline.

 

It's about a new Queen that walks into a true mess. She learns that a treaty was made that honors a lottery where her people are sold and auctioned off for labor, sex, and more... Kelsea is destined to stop this process and in doing so she gains many enemies, but also earns the trust and loyalty of her people. It's a dangerous journey, but an honorable one at that. The suspense is edgy and the subtle romance will have you swooning. I was desperate for more of the Fetch and I hope in book 2 we get just that!

 

The overall concept was great and the writing was top of the line. I usually crave a more prominent romance, but with this book, less is more... rang true. I really enjoyed the characters and their connection to the throne. It was an intricate tale that was weaved with raw emotion, dark secrets, and passion. I loved it and definitely recommend it to all readers over 16. It didn't have too many graphic scenes, but there were some curse words and hints at non-consensual sex.

Cam Girl by Leah Raeder Review

Vada Bergen is broke, the black sheep of her family, and moving a thousand miles away from home for grad school, but she’s got the two things she loves most: her art and her best friend—and sometimes more—Ellis Carraway. Ellis and Vada have a friendship so consuming it’s hard to tell where one girl ends and the other begins. It’s intense. It’s a little codependent. And nothing can tear them apart.

Until an accident on an icy winter road changes everything.

Vada is left deeply scarred, both emotionally and physically. Her once-promising art career is cut short. And Ellis pulls away, unwilling to talk about that night. Everything Vada loved is gone.

She’s got nothing left to lose.

So when she meets some smooth-talking entrepreneurs who offer to set her up as a cam girl, she can’t say no. All Vada has to do is spend a couple hours each night stripping on webcam, and the “tips” come pouring in.

It’s just a kinky escape from reality until a client gets serious. “Blue” is mysterious, alluring, and more interested in Vada’s life than her body. Online, they chat intimately. Blue helps her heal. And he pays well, but he wants her all to himself. No more cam shows. It’s an easy decision: she’s starting to fall for him. But the steamier it gets, the more she craves the real man behind the keyboard. So Vada pops the question:

Can we meet IRL?

Blue agrees, on one condition. A condition that brings back a ghost from her past. Now Vada must confront the devastating secrets she's been running from—those of others, and those she's been keeping from herself...

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

MY THOUGHTS:
3/5 Stars

I am all kinds of torn with this review... On one hand I want to give it 4 stars because the writing was exquisite, but on another, I have to give it 3 because as a whole I just never really enjoyed/connected to the story. Now before I go on I want to make a note... My dislike did not stem from the subject matter, but more the characters, storyline, and overall outcome. I was pissed when the mystery was revealed and I still kind of am. I was all in with Blue. Something about his character was itrigueing, sexy and mysterious. It was basically my whole reason for continuing to read. When I got to that reveal though my jaw hit the floor, my forehead scrunched, my resting bitch face became a full on bitch face. For me that twist just ruined the story. I had high hopes and they were shot down with hollow point bullets.

With all of that being said... I did enjoy Vada. I liked her confusion, complexity, personailty, and struggles. I loved the "cam girl" parts and her flashbacks to the accident. I think The Author really showed us how a vulnerable character can turn into a fierce heroine.

Overall, I think many will enjoy this story and many will have issues. The theme is pushing the norm and teaching us to open our eyes to something we don't see everyday. It's about judging and bullying... About the trans world and how suicide comes into play. It wasn't really my cup of tea, but Leah knows how to write. The words are poetic and the vivid descriptions of the paintings add a subtle classic side to this unconventional story. I can't say I recommend it to all readers, but if you have an open mind and give it a try... I hope you enjoy it.

Charlie, Presumed Dead by Anne Heltzel

In Paris, family and friends gather to mourn the tragic passing of Charlie Price—young, handsome, charming, a world-traveler—who is presumed dead after an explosion. Authorities find only a bloodied jacket, ID’d as Charlie’s. At the funeral, two teens who are perfect strangers, Lena Whitney and Aubrey Boroughs, make another shocking discovery: they have both been dating Charlie, both think Charlie loved them and them alone, and there is a lot they didn’t know about their boyfriend. Over the next week, a mind-bending trip unfolds: first in London—then in Mumbai, Kerala, and Bangkok, the girls go in search of Charlie. Is he still alive? What did their love for him even mean? The truth is out there, but soon it becomes clear that the girls are harboring secrets of their own.

No one knows whom to trust in this thrilling tale of suspense and deception.

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

MY THOUGHTS:
5/5 Stars

This one was a ticking time bomb just waiting to explode. We are sucked in at page one and quickly become tangled in the intricate weaved lies of Charlie. No one truly knows what's going on, but everyone knows it's not good. It's like a sick, twisted game of cat and mouse. Aubrey and Lena think the ball is in their court, but what they don't know is... Charlie is controlling every move they make. I expected a huge ending, but I never expected to have my mind blown. It was intense, gut wrenching, and left me begging for the next book.

I LOVED this book. I felt as though the story latched onto me and didn't let go until the very last word. Each scene painted a vivid picture in my mind and each emotion was felt deep within my soul. My heart ached for the characters and fear raced through my veins. I couldn't turn the pages quick enough. I was like an addict craving their drug of choice. The more I got, the more I wanted. Towards the ending though... when I knew it was going to get intense, I slowed my pace. I took my time to devour each word and prolonged the dreadful ending I knew to expect. Reading the last few chapters I could feel my heart pounding in my chest and my hands shaking a bit. I couldn't believe how it all played out. I even went back and reread the same pages to make sure I didn't miss something. It was truly a one of kind book with a one of a kind plot.

Yes there is a cliffhanger, but I promise that it is so worth it.
I highly recommend Charlie, Presumed Dead to all readers with a love for mystery and suspense!
It is one of my favorites of 2015 & deserves 6 Stars.

Comfort Food by Kitty Thomas Review

Emily Vargas has been taken captive. As part of his conditioning methods, her captor refuses to speak to her, knowing how much she craves human contact. He's far too beautiful to be a monster. Combined with his lack of violence toward her, this has her walking a fine line at the edge of sanity.

Told in the first person from Emily's perspective, Comfort Food explores what happens when all expectations of pleasure and pain are turned upside down, as whips become comfort and chicken soup becomes punishment.

DISCLAIMER: This is not a story about consensual BDSM. This is a story about “actual” slavery. If reading an erotic story without safewords makes you uncomfortable, this is not the book for you. This is a work of fiction, and the author does not endorse or condone any behavior done to another human being without their consent.  

 

AMAZON LINK: http://amzn.to/1KrNT7w

MY THOUGHTS:
3/5 Stars

I have mixed feelings on this one... It definitely was not what I expected. I thought it would be way darker than it was. While there were some graphic scenes... They were all consensual. The master left it to the female lead to decide how she would be treated. For me, it was a tad too bland. Yeah, it had the creepy feel and yeah, it kept me guessing, but it didn't quite pull me in and make me feel glued to the pages.

 

The beginning was good, but the middle parts were boring. I actually skimmed and thought about not finishing, but I am happy that I continued on because the ending was worthy of 5 stars. The twist was surprising and the story became quite addicting. Unfortunately, it picked up when the story was about to end. If the whole book was written from the master's POV, I would have given it 5 stars. I loved his journal entries!

 

Overall, It had it's high and lows. If you like the master/dom reads... You will love this one, but if you like your books dark and gritty with lots of angst... I would pass on this one.

A Shattered Moment by Tiffany King

In the new series by Tiffany King, the USA Today bestselling author of the Woodfalls Girls novels, six friends—fresh from high school graduation—discover that the future can come at you from out of nowhere.

This is Mackenzie’s story…

Mackenzie Wilson once had hope for what life had to offer, but everything changed on the night of her graduation. A year later, the only way she can find comfort is by keeping her head down and hoping she remains unnoticed at college.

When Bentley James discovered Mac in that twisted SUV, he was just a newbie EMT on his first call. It was a gut-wrenching moment that made him realize not everyone can be saved—and sometimes they don’t want to be.

A chance encounter on campus brings Bentley back into Mac’s life. Despite her initial resistance, he sets out to discover the girl hiding beneath a shield of seclusion. He evokes painful memories in Mac—but also feelings. As the spark between them grows, Mac must decide if she can let go of the past and believe in something as fragile as love…

 

AMAZON LINK- http://amzn.to/1PKQWGd  

MY THOUGHTS:
5/5 STARS

This was one of the most emotionally charged books I've ever read. It was gut wrenching, raw, and intense. While at times the story was truly ugly... somehow, someway it turned out to be a beautiful story about healing, hope, and love.

 

It was told in dual POVs and at times gave us flashbacks to the day that changed everything for Mackenzie. The day of the accident... The day that took lives and friendships. It was so hard to read these parts, but they were crucial to the story. In these parts you see Mac and Bentley meet for the first time... and get to see how their lives intertwined them both.

 

I think what made this book so special is that fact that it was unique. It didn't follow the cliché NA mold, but rather created a category of it's own. The characters were one of a kind and their emotions easily captured my attention. I quickly became addicted and finished the book in just two sittings. I definitely recommend it to all readers over 18. While it isn't packed with intimate scenes... It does have few.

Into The Darkest Corner by Elizabeth Haynes

When young, pretty Catherine Bailey meets Lee Brightman, she can't believe her luck. Gorgeous, charismatic, and a bit mysterious, Lee seems almost too perfect to be true.

But what begins as flattering attention and spontaneous, passionate sex transforms into raging jealousy, and Catherine soon discovers that Lee's dazzling blue eyes and blond good looks hide a dark, violent nature. Disturbed by his increasingly erratic, controlling behavior, she tries to break it off; turning to her friends for support, she's stunned to find they don't believe her. Increasingly isolated and driven into the darkest corner of her world, a desperate Catherine plans a meticulous escape.

Four years later, Lee is behind bars and Catherine—now Cathy—is trying to build a new life in a new city. Though her body has healed, the trauma of the past still haunts her. Then Stuart Richardson, her attractive new neighbor, moves in. Encouraging her to confront her fears, he sparks unexpected hope and the possibility of love and a normal life.

Until the day the phone rings . . .

AMAZON LINK- http://amzn.to/1PKP1Sd

MY THOUGHTS:4/5 Stars

Into the Darkest Corner was an intense read with a major creep factor. As I was reading I found myself looking over my shoulder and double checking the door locks. It was a scary story about a woman's knight in shining armor turning into her worst nightmare... She tries to escape him, but he is a cop and has more resources than expected.

 

Talk about a wild ride... I was shocked by this story and especially by Catherine's rotten friends! No wonder she was struggling with OCD. She was left alone, with no one in her corner. Her friends became her enemies. Life changed and everything she knew was thrown out the door. When Stuart comes into her life she begins to change for the better. It isn't an easy journey, but he puts a bit of light into her life.

 

It was such a gut wrenching read that left me on the edge of my seat. I felt the dark energy seeping off the pages and it affected me like no other book. It pulled me in and held me captive long after the last page.

 

My only complaint is... It did become slow at times because the book was so long. There were repetitive situations and overall it just had a slower paced plot. However, that didn't take away the fact that it is a must read!

 

I highly recommend!

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.  

All the Bright Places by Jennifer Niven Review

The Fault in Our Stars meets Eleanor and Park in this exhilarating and heart-wrenching love story about a girl who learns to live from a boy who intends to die.
Soon to be a major motion picture starring Elle Fanning!
 
Theodore Finch is fascinated by death, and he constantly thinks of ways he might kill himself. But each time, something good, no matter how small, stops him.

Violet Markey lives for the future, counting the days until graduation, when she can escape her Indiana town and her aching grief in the wake of her sister’s recent death.

When Finch and Violet meet on the ledge of the bell tower at school, it’s unclear who saves whom. And when they pair up on a project to discover the “natural wonders” of their state, both Finch and Violet make more important discoveries: It’s only with Violet that Finch can be himself—a weird, funny, live-out-loud guy who’s not such a freak after all. And it’s only with Finch that Violet can forget to count away the days and start living them. But as Violet’s world grows, Finch’s begins to shrink.

This is an intense, gripping novel perfect for fans of Jay Asher, Rainbow Rowell, John Green, Gayle Forman, and Jenny Downham from a talented new voice in YA, Jennifer Niven.Includes a PDF Help Line Resource Guide and a Note Read by the Author.

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

MY THOUGHTS:
4.5/5 Stars

Violet struggles to live life to the fullest because she has the weight of guilt and loss on her shoulders. Finch thinks about death on a daily basis and struggles with mental illness. Together they embark on a unique journey of finding the beauty in their state and their connection to one another.

The early chapters were a bit slow and at times I felt like I wouldn't make it to the end... However, I am so glad I continued on because as the story progressed, it grabbed onto my heart and squeezed tight. It was a beautiful, heart breaking story. The characters were intense and their romance was truly one of kind.

All the Bright Places is one that sticks with you long after the last page. It is a raw and intense plot that will leave you feeling vulnerable and exposed. While it had the cutesy YA additions, it also had a deep set message behind it. I was consumed by the romance and mystery and in end ... my heart was shattered into a thousand little pieces.

It's not a light read and it's not for those who like a perfect happily ever after, but I definitely recommend it to readers of all ages!

Burn Baby, Burn Baby by Kevin Craig

Seventeen-year-old Francis Fripp’s confidence is practically non-existent since his abusive father drenched him in accelerant and threw a match at him eight years ago.

Now badly scarred, Francis relies on his best friend Trig to protect him from the constant bullying doled out at the hands of his nemesis, Brandon Hayley—the unrelenting boy who gave him the dreaded nickname of Burn Baby.

The new girl at school, Rachel Higgins, is the first to see past Francis’s pariah-inducing scars.

If Brandon’s bullying doesn’t destroy him, Francis might experience life as a normal teenager for the first time in his life. He just has to avoid Brandon and convince himself he’s worthy of Rachel’s attentions.

Sounds easy enough, but Francis himself has a hard time seeing past his scars. And Brandon is getting violently frustrated, as his attempts to bully Francis are constantly thwarted.

Francis is in turmoil as he simultaneously rushes toward his first kiss and a possible violent end.

AMAZON LINK- http://amzn.to/1BVkxvx 

MY THOUGHTS:

5/5 Stars

I am so surprised that this book isn't getting more attention... It is definitely along the lines of The Fault in Our Stars and those other YA books we all love. While being intense and emotional it also brought romance and charm to the table. I loved the friendships and I swooned over the new romance. It was definitely a 5 star read that I recommend to all readers! 

Francis is teen boy with not only physical scarring, but also emotional scarring. He is uncomfortable in his own skin and struggles with living a normal teenage life because he is constantly bullied. Every day he walks into school just waiting to be made fun of or beat up. When a pretty girl stands up for him he can't help but think it's a joke. He wants to keep her at arm's length, but eventually caves and gives in to temptation. Together they embark on a beautiful journey of love. It isn't always easy though and the bullying grows out of control. Can their love survive? READ TO FIND OUT!!!

Burn Baby, Burn Baby was a gut wrenching story about learning to see what's inside and not just judging from appearance. Rachel helps Francis break out of his shell. She shows him that even with the scars he is handsome and worthy of love. He has set backs, but eventually learns to be happy that he is alive.

The Author's writing was great! The story didn't become boring once. It was fast paced and kept me on the edge of my seat. I'm not a huge fan of male pov, but with this book it worked wonders. I connected with Franics and was able to feel every deep emotion he was feeling. 

I really loved the story and I wish more people would give it a read. I promise once you start reading you won't be able to stop.

Out of Control by Sarah Alderson

When 17 year old Liva witnesses a brutal murder she’s taken into police custody for her own protection. But when the police station is attacked and bullets start flying it becomes clear that Liva is not just a witness, she’s a target.

Together with a car thief called Jay, Liva manages to escape the massacre but now the two of them are alone in New York, trying to outrun and outwit two killers who will stop at nothing to find them.

When you live on the edge, there’s a long way to fall.

AMAZON ~ http://amzn.to/19aE5z8




  MY THOUGHTS:
5 HUGE STARS
* I receieved an ARC for an honest review *
You know that feeling you get when you are plunging down the first huge drop on a roller coaster... The butterflies arrive and you feel as though you left your stomach at the top? Well, that is how I felt while reading Out of Control.

I was sucked in from page one and quickly became addicted to the fast paced thriller. I had a hard time putting it down... The fact that the story occurred in just two-three days, blows my mind. You would think that there would be a lack in the storyline, but gah!, no.... it was so good! The intensity of each page had me on the edge of my seat and the romance aspect had my heart swooning.

The characters meshed together so well. It wasn't an in your face romance, but more of a subtle, lusty, slow build, intense connection. Liva and Jay's lives cross paths in a police station and from that moment on they are like Bonnie and Clyde, but in the best way possible, of course. Together they face danger head on, taking one minute at a time.

I definitely think that Jay was my favorite character. He is a book boyfriend that I will love for a long time because, while he had a bad boy attitude... his heart was solid gold. He devoted his life to protect Liva and worried himself over his family. He was attractive, but not in an I have to be dominant and take my clothes of kind of way... His actions spoke louder than words for sure.

When I reached the ending I couldn't believe the huge plot twist... Just when I thought I had it all figured out, I was blindsided by the new information. I was conflicted by how it would all play out, but in the end I was pleased with how it did.

I am so glad I got the chance to read this book. I wasn't sure what to expect, but what I got was a fast paced, intense, roller coaster ride. I highly recommend it to mature readers that don't mind a little blood and suspense in their books.

The Coincidence of Callie & Kayden by Jessica Sorenson Review

From the bestselling author of The Secret of Ella and Micha comes a mesmerizing novel of fate, friendship, and the healing power of love . . .

THE COINCIDENCE OF CALLIE & KAYDEN

For Kayden, suffering in silence was the only way to survive. If he was lucky, he could keep his head down, do as he was told, and make it through the day. But one night it seemed like his luck-and his life-might finally end . . . until an angel named Callie appeared just in time to rescue him.

Callie has never believed in luck. Not since her twelfth birthday when everything was taken from her. After the worst was over, she locked up her feelings and vowed never to tell anyone what happened. Now, six years later, she continues to struggle with the painful secret that threatens to consume her.

When fate lands Kayden and Callie at the same college, Kayden is determined to get to know the beautiful girl who changed his destiny. Quiet and reserved, Callie still fears letting anyone else into her world. But Kayden is certain that Callie has come back into his life for a reason. And the more he tries to be a part of her life, the more he realizes that, this time, it's Callie who needs to be saved . . .

Amazon Link- http://amzn.to/1Hqz8Mn

My Thoughts:
5/5 Stars

I was stuck in a book rut and came across this book in the store. I couldn't be more pleased that I did! It was everything I was craving in a book and more. The story was gritty, emotional, romantic, mysterious, and just plain addicting!

 

It was about a guy named Kayden and a girl named Callie. Both characters were broken with deep set, emotional damage. Both held their hurt inside and both were afraid to reveal their darkest secrets. Eventually though, the truth needed to be set free and when it was, it caused a whirlwind of changes.

 

Talk about an emotionally intense story packed with twists and turns. The whole time I was on the edge of my seat begging for answers. I wanted to know what their secrets were. With each page I was captivated and sucked into the character's world. When the secrets were revealed my heart about exploded. It hurt for Callie and Kayden. I just wanted them to find happiness within one another and shut out the rest of the world.

 

The ending was not what I expected... It was a cliffhanger that leaves many things up in the air. I would have liked to have more answers before the end, but I guess I will just have to read the next book to find out what happens.

 

I highly recommend this read to all readers looking for a read with substance, that will pull out tons of emotion.



After the Rain by Renee Carlino Review

From the USA TODAY bestselling author of Sweet Thing and Nowhere But Here comes a deeply emotional contemporary romance about the second chances waiting beyond the shattered dreams of youth.

When eighteen-year-old Avelina Belo meets a charismatic cowboy the summer before her senior year of high school, she doesn’t know that accepting his invitation to dinner will lead to a whirlwind marriage three months later and an exciting new life on a Montana ranch. She also doesn’t know that, in a few short years, fate will send everything crashing down around her.

A thousand miles away and fresh out of medical school, Nate Meyers is poised to become UCLA’s next superstar heart surgeon. His laser focus is the key to his success, but it’s also his greatest liability. When a routine surgery ends in disaster, derailing his career, he’s confronted with the hard truth: there’s no one waiting for him at home, no one to help him pick up the pieces.

Regrouping on his uncle’s Montana ranch, Nate meets Avelina, a beautiful but mysterious young woman who keeps to herself and barely speaks a word. As he discovers the details of her devastating past, Avelina teaches him more about matters of the heart than he ever knew before. But can they trust each other enough to put everything on the line?

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

 

MY THOUGHTS:
5/5 Stars

 

Renee Carlino has done it again. Another touching romance that will forever remain on my all-time favorites list. It was emotional, captivating, intense, and utterly beautiful.

After the Rain isn't an insta love... It is slow burn romance that will capture your heart. The story shows how one thing can alter your whole perspective of life. That one thing can pull your soul out and leave you as an empty shell settling for what you believe you deserve. It is a story of finding hope and remembering that even though life seems really tough at times, you can always escape the darkness.

I fell in love with Ava and Jake’s love story first and when tragedy struck my heart ached for all Ava dealt with. Everyone understood why she kept them at arm’s distance, but no one truly could feel what she was feeling. When Nate showed up her whole outlook began to change. We got to see the broken layers peel away to reveal a more happy, confident Ava. She didn’t let him in immediately, but when she did, it was done in such a delicate way. Nate had his own demons he was facing as well, so each minute they shared played an important role in their healing process.

There were so many twists and turns that left me on the edge of my seat. I could feel my heart beating fast and at times I felt broken down emotionally. The way the Author made each scene thought provoking made it hard for me to put the book down. The real factor was a ten! I felt as though I was in Ava’s shoes and when it was Nate’s part…. I felt like I was in the surgery room with him.

I honestly cannot say enough wonderful things about this book. All I can say is go read it!! You will not be disappointed.

*There are sexual scenes, but they aren’t rushed and they are wrote in a classy fashion. Renee makes each one meaningful with just the right amount of deatails.*

Unteachable by Leah Raeder Review

An edgy, sexy USA TODAY bestseller about falling for the one person you can’t have.
Maise O’Malley just turned eighteen, but she’s felt like a grown-up her entire life. The summer before senior year, she has plans: get into a great film school, convince her mom to go into rehab, and absolutely do not, under any circumstances, screw up her own future.

But life has a way of throwing her plans into free-fall.

When Maise meets Evan at a carnival one night, their chemistry is immediate, intense, and short-lived. Which is exactly how she likes it: no strings. But afterward, she can’t get Evan out of her head. He’s taught her that a hookup can be something more. It can be an unexpected connection with someone who truly understands her. Someone who sees beyond her bravado to the scared but strong girl inside.

That someone turns out to be her new film class teacher, Mr. Evan Wilke.

Maise and Evan resolve to keep their hands off each other, but the attraction is too much to bear. Together, they’re real and genuine; apart, they’re just actors playing their parts for everyone else. And their masks are slipping. People start to notice. Rumors fly. When the truth comes to light in a shocking way, they may learn they were just playing parts for each other, too.

Smart, sexy, and provocative, Unteachable is about what happens when a love story goes off-script.

 

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

 

My Thoughts:
5/5 Stars

Wow! I love a good student/teacher romance and this one didn't disappoint one bit.

 

Oh the feels this book gave me....

Maise and Evan are a book couple that will forever be in my heart.

Their romance begins at a carnival. From there it goes to high school with him being her teacher. I'm sure you know how the rest goes... Secrets, lies, and sexy escapades.

The angst is thick. They know they shouldn't act on their feelings, but they can't stay away from each other. The relationship gets messy and as the truth is unveiled, ties are broken.

 

I loved loved loved this book!! Yes, student/teacher books have the same feel to them, but this one brought so much to the table. Talk about a page turner... The plot had just the right amount of twists and turns to leave you craving more. Once I started, I couldn't stop. The sexual tension made me squirm in my seat and the lies left my mind wandering.

 

I honestly cannot say enough wonderful things about this book. Evan was the perfect book boyfriend. He was protective, yet dominate. He wanted control in the best of ways. Maise was a fierce lead. She was seductive and strong. Both characters complicated one another so well and their romance was quite intense.

 

I highly recommend this read!!

 

Forbidden by Tabitha Suzuma

Seventeen-year-old Lochan and sixteen-year-old Maya have always felt more like friends than siblings. Together they have stepped in for their alcoholic, wayward mother to take care of their three younger siblings. As defacto parents to the little ones, Lochan and Maya have had to grow up fast. And the stress of their lives--and the way they understand each other so completely--has also also brought them closer than two siblings would ordinarily be. So close, in fact, that they have fallen in love. Their clandestine romance quickly blooms into deep, desperate love. They know their relationship is wrong and cannot possibly continue. And yet, they cannot stop what feels so incredibly right. As the novel careens toward an explosive and shocking finale, only one thing is certain: a love this devastating has no happy ending

 

 

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

 

 

My Thoughts:
5 HUGE STARS

 

Ummmm..... WOW!

I am left speechless after reading this one.

It has been two days and I am still trying to collect my thoughts. Forbidden was one of the most emotional, intense romances I've ever read about. The subject is touchy and at times makes you uncomfortable, but it's also what pulls you in. From the moment I devoured page one I was hooked. My fingers couldn't turn the pages quick enough and my heart swelled with emotions.

 

Lochan and Maya are living an unconventional life. They are left to fend for their younger siblings and while doing so they connect on a romantic level... Yes, I know it's a bit sick, but in some taboo way... It worked. My heart ached for all they dealt with. Between the worry of finances, the sorting out sibling drama, and maintaining their own school work... It's no wonder they looked to one another for comfort and security. As their relationship progressed behind closed doors the feelings became more prominent and they began to crave a more public affair.

 

Towards the end I started to draw my own conclusions, but nothing compared to the TRUE ending. Let me just say... the ending will gut you. Your heart will be ripped from your chest and stomped all over.

 

I honestly cannot recommend this book more. Immediately after finishing I wanted to pick it up and start a re-read... I remember looking at my husband and saying "This is a book I wish I could own 15 copies of". Absolutely amazing book that will give you butterflies and break your heart into a million tiny pieces.