It's Monday! What Are You Reading?

What Are You Reading, is where we gather to share what we have read this past week and what we plan to read this week. It is a great way to network with other bloggers, see some wonderful blogs, and put new titles on your reading list. Click on the picture to be taken to Sheila at One Person's Journey Through A World of Books!

Read Last Week:  

• These Broken Stars by Amie Kaufman & Meagan Spooner
•  Inhuman by Kat Falls
  
• The Color of Heaven by Julianne MacLean

 Currently Reading: 

• Taste of Darkness by Maria V Snyder

Up This Week:  

• Royal Inheritance by Kate Emerson 
• Afterglow by Karsten Knight

Stacking the Shelves!

For Review:

• The Redhead Plays Her Hand by Alice Clayton

 Purchased:

• Social Suicide by Gemma Halliday 
• Biting Cold by Chloe Neill

Stacking The Shelves is all about the books we are adding to our shelves each week, sharing with you our excitement for our newest titles and maybe have you discover a new book in the process!  It's hosted by Tynga's Reviews!

 

Review - No Good Duke Goes Unpunished (The Rules of Scoundrels #3) by Sarah MacLean

Title: No Good Duke Goes Unpunished

Author: Sarah MacLean

Series: 3rd (A Rogue By Any Other Name, One Good Earl Deserves Another)

Pages: 384

Published:  November 26th 2013 by Avon 

ISBN: 9780062068545

Source: Publisher via Edelweiss

 

 

 

 

 

Description: A rogue ruined . . . He is the Killer Duke, accused of murdering Mara Lowe on the eve of her wedding. With no memory of that fateful night, Temple has reigned over the darkest of London’s corners for twelve years, wealthy and powerful, but beyond redemption. Until one night, Mara resurfaces, offering the one thing he’s dreamed of . . . absolution. A lady returned . . .Mara planned never to return to the world from which she’d run, but when her brother falls deep into debt at Temple’s exclusive casino, she has no choice but to offer Temple a trade that ends in her returning to society and proving to the world what only she knows . . . that he is no killer.  A scandal revealed . . . It’s a fine trade, until Temple realizes that the lady—and her past—are more than they seem. It will take every bit of his strength to resist the pull of this mysterious, maddening woman who seems willing to risk everything for honor . . . and to keep from putting himself on the line for love. 

 

I Give This ...

 

I'm really enjoying this series revolving around the men who own an exclusive casino.  Temple was kind of elusive figure in the previous books.  I was eager to get to know him in this book.

 

Temple gives off the impression that he doesn't mind being thought of as off limits, frightening, etc.  I had no idea how much it bothered him.  But then again, I also did not know his story.    It was not what I was expecting at all.  It was interesting to read about the conflicting sides of his personality.  He could be cold and ruthless and then turn around and be enduring and charming.  In the end, I really just wanted him to be happy and get what he deserved.  I didn't necessarily think it was gaining full acceptance of the ton.

 

I had an idea of what Mara's story really was.  The final details were a little different, but I understood what she was trying to do.  I also identified with why she decided to risk it all by coming out in public after so long.  Sometimes, one will do anything for the only real connection you have with your old life.  She never counted on the connection she would make with the man whose life she ruined.

 

I was a little afraid this might be the first time the couple couldn't overcome their own pride and realize they really belong together.  Temple, especially seem to be holding on to the past (not that blame him).  When the full story comes out about the details of that fateful night, it's almost laughable.  A young naive girl facing an uncertain feature, she just took it a little too far.

 

I really liked this installment, both characters are likeable and I liked how it more about them.  The romance was still there, but it seemed more a secondary thing.  I can't wait until the next one!

 

 

 

 

 

  

It's Monday! What Are You Reading?

What Are You Reading, is where we gather to share what we have read this past week and what we plan to read this week. It is a great way to network with other bloggers, see some wonderful blogs, and put new titles on your reading list. Click on the picture to be taken to Sheila at One Person's Journey Through A World of Books!

 

Read Last Week:  

 

• Daughters of the Nile by Stephanie Dray
•  Once We Were by Kat Zhang

Currently Reading: 

 

• These Broken Stars by Amie Kaufman & Meagan Spooner

 

Up This Week: 

 

• Inhuman by Kat Falls 
• The Color of Heaven by Julianne MacLean

 

 

Stacking the Shelves!

For Review:  

• Defy by Sara B Larson
• Queen Elizabeth's Daughter by Anne Clinard Barnhill
• Manor of Secrets by Katherine Longshore

Stacking The Shelves is all about the books we are adding to our shelves each week, sharing with you our excitement for our newest titles and maybe have you discover a new book in the process!  It's hosted by Tynga's Reviews!

Pawn (The Blackcoat Rebellion #1) by Aimee Carter

Title: Pawn

Author: Aimee Carter

Series: 1st

Pages: 352

Published: November 26th 2013 by Harlequin Teen 

ISBN: 9780373210558

Source: Publisher via Netgalley

 

Description: For Kitty Doe, it seems like an easy choice. She can either spend her life as a III in misery, looked down upon by the higher ranks and forced to leave the people she loves, or she can become a VII and join the most powerful family in the country. If she says yes, Kitty will be Masked - surgically transformed into Lila Hart, the Prime Minister's niece, who died under mysterious circumstances. As a member of the Hart family, she will be famous. She will be adored. And for the first time, she will matter. There's only one catch. She must also stop the rebellion that Lila secretly fostered, the same one that got her killed, and one Kitty believes in. Faced with threats, conspiracies and a life that's not her own, she must decide which path to choose and learn how to become more than a pawn in a twisted game she's only beginning to understand. 

I Give This ...

I was a little on the fence about this one.  Since it seemed to fall smack into the new "it" genre, I was a little wary on reading it.  But, I like the author's first series, so I decided to give it a shot.

I was intrigued with the idea of someone talking over the life of another.  First, the complications of performing the vast amount of surgeries needed to make Kitty look exactly like Lila was mind blowing.  But the thing that tripped me was they could even make Kitty sound exactly like Lilly, but kept her eyes?  The exact reason why she was chosen to replace Lila was because she had the exact same color eyes.  Well it's a damn good things she chose to steal something that day to get notices by the soldiers.  How else would they have kept the public from knowing Lila was dead?

Kitty takes her new life in stride, but its a very fine line she walks.  The Prime Minster has some conditions to her new found status.  Lila's mother and fiancee seem to have a different agenda entirely.   But, how can she be sure they truly believe in the cause they want her to support?  And how can the so callously gamble with her life?  They know she's not the real Lila.  And they know exactly what the Prime Minister has threatened to do should she choose to continue along the path that Lila had choosen.

It's interesting watching Kitty learn who Lila really was.  She may have been born a VII, with all the wealth and privileges that go along with it.  But Lila saw something in the change she was tying to push forward.  Kitty must decide if that rebellion is worth her life.  Interestingly enough, she has the most experience with the people Lila was trying to inspire.  Perhaps that will help her in her decisions.  Can her effect on people cause and effect on herself?

I liked some of the relationship dynamic building in this series.  Kitty's relationship with Lila's mother is interesting.  I can't quite get a read on her.  The Prime Minister and the matriarchal mother often left me wondering who was really ruling this country.  And, I was actually enjoying the build up of a love triangle.  Maybe because I'm sure if it's suppose to be one?

I'll be looking for the next book in this series.  There are some serious plot twists that leave me wondering were we go from here! 

Waiting on Wednesday - India Black and the Gentleman Thief by Carol K. Carr

"Waiting On" Wednesday is a weekly event, hosted at Breaking The Spine, that spotlights upcoming releases that we're eagerly anticipating.

This week's pre-publication "can't-wait-to-read" selection is:

Title: India Black and the Gentleman Thief

Author: Carol K Carr

Publication Date: February 4th 2014 by Berkley Trade 

India Black’s double life operating a high-class brothel and running high-stakes espionage for Her Majesty’s government can take its toll. But there’s no rest for the weary—particularly when an international conspiracy comes knocking….   India Black is one of Victorian London’s most respected madams—not a bloody postmistress. So when Colonel Francis Mayhew forwards a seemingly innocuous shipping bill to her address, she’s puzzled. And when three thugs bust down her door, steal the envelope, and rough up both her and fellow agent French…well, that’s enough to make India Black see red.   The veteran spies soon discover that Mayhew has been butchered in his own bedroom. An impromptu investigation leads them to London’s docks, where India makes a startling discovery she can’t bear to tell the rakish French—she has a history with their chief suspect, the gentleman thief who once stole her heart….

I've really enjoyed the previous books in this series so there's no doubt that I will read this one as well.  I don't think this is the last one, but if it is I will be looking for that perfect ending!

 

Review - Somewhere to Dream (The MacDonnells #3) by Genevieve Graham

Title: Somewhere to Dream 

Author: Genevieve Graham

Series: 3rd (Under The Same Sky, Sound of the Heart)

Pages: 336

Published: November 5th 2013 by Berkley 

ISBN:  9780425265574

Source: Author/Publisher sent for honest review

 

Desciption: The Cherokee call her Shadow Girl. A white woman adopted by Indians, Adelaide is haunted by the dark dreams she hides—of her murdered family, of the men she fears, and most of all, of the ones that foretell the future. After her visions cause her to make a terrible mistake, she renounces her power and buries her dreams deep in her soul.  Until Jesse Black is captured by the tribe. His life is spared because the Cherokee believe his warrior spirit belongs to their fallen brother. Though he hates all Indians, Adelaide illuminates their way of life for him, just as he shines light into her shadowed heart. But when her dreams return, Jesse must help her face them…or die trying… 

I Give This ...

I did not read the first book in this series, but felt the second worked well enough despite that.  So, it never crossed my mind not to read this one.  I was wasn't entirely disappointed with this story.

I don't think I've ever read about a character quite like Adelaide.  I would think it would be hard to adapt to living with the Cherokee.  But, Adelaide is so afraid of the white settlers that she prefers the Cherokee ways.  It's almost contradictory because she readily acknowledges the fact that the Cherokee can show to mercy when it comes to the white men the capture.  She's almost become disillusioned to the roles each of them pay.  She truly sees the Cherokee as her saviors but you can tell that she still feels out of place with them.

An interesting twist to the story is the fact that Adelaide has visions.  Most of her visions seem to show violence, so she never is able to stay in them long enough to determine any sort of outcome or ways to circumvent their occurrence.  All she knows is that she has been dreaming of the Cherokee's new prisoner her entire life.  But, he may have a special place with the Cherokee.   One of them believes he harbors the soul of a Cherokee who passed away.

Jesse and Adelaide's future together is more tied to the past then I ever though possible.  Adelaide must overcome the events that lead to her coming to live with the Cherokee and she must acknowledge her dreams for them may help far more than she knows.  Jesse must realize that the Cherokee are not all he has grown up to believe.  Perhaps evil really does lie with someone else.

I really enjoyed the whole story.  But, I often felt like I was missing some key piece of information.  Adelaide does address some of my questions but it seems to be really late in the novel and not enough.  It had a lot to do with Adelaide and her sister.   I think a lot of my questions would be answered if I had read the first book in the series.  It's primary characters are Maggie and the man she marries.  I think I need to read it and hopefully it would close a lot of gaps I feel like this story had.  

I do enjoy this authors historical fiction, so I am looking forward to what she writes next.  Be it another edition to this series, or something else entirely! 

It's Monday! What Are You Reading?

What Are You Reading, is where we gather to share what we have read this past week and what we plan to read this week. It is a great way to network with other bloggers, see some wonderful blogs, and put new titles on your reading list. Click on the picture to be taken to Sheila at One Person's Journey Through A World of Books!

 

Does this look like a repeat from last week?  That's because it is!  I had a rare week were I did not finish a single book.  It's not that I don't like the book I'm currently reading.  I'm really enjoying it.  But, school and the holiday's are wiping me out!  I'm falling asleep within minutes of opening my book lol.  Here's to getting some reading done this week!

 

Currently Reading: 

 

• Daughters of the Nile by Stephanie Dray

 

 Up This Week:

• Once We Were by Kat Zhang 
• These Broken Stars by Amie Kaufman& Meagan Spooner

 

Stacking the Shelves!

For Review:  

• Neverwas by Kelly Moore, Tucker Reed, & Larkin Reed 
• The Falconer by Elizabeth May

Stacking The Shelves is all about the books we are adding to our shelves each week, sharing with you our excitement for our newest titles and maybe have you discover a new book in the process!  It's hosted by Tynga's Reviews!

It's Monday! What Are You Reading?

What Are You Reading, is where we gather to share what we have read this past week and what we plan to read this week. It is a great way to network with other bloggers, see some wonderful blogs, and put new titles on your reading list. Click on the picture to be taken to Sheila at One Person's Journey Through A World of Books!

 

Read Last Week:

• Somewhere to Dream by Genevieve Graham 
• Pawn by Aimee Carter
• No Good Duke Goes Unpunished by Sarah MacLean

 

Currently Reading: 

 

• Daughters of the Nile by Stephanie Dray

 

 Up This Week:

• Once We Were by Kat Zhang 
• These Broken Stars by Amie Kaufman& Meagan Spooner

 

 

 

 

Review (DNF) - All the Mermaids in the Sea: The Lost Journals of the Little Mermaid by Robert W Cabell

Title: All The Mermaids in the Sea

Author: Robert W Cabell

Series: Stand Alone

Pages: 468

Published: February 14th 2013 by Oceanus Books
ISBN: 9780988969872

Source: Author Sent for honest review

Description: Denmark's King Valdemar I, was a young prince when he was washed overboard in a violent storm. His life was saved, but his heart was lost, to Poseidon's daughter Helmi. Twenty-five years later, he faked his death and returned to her in the sea. Their daughter Miranda protected their realm from the ravages of two world wars and then met her own true love, Halder, a marine biologist. On the day of their daughter's birth, Miranda and Halder were mysteriously killed along the Seattle waterfront, but their child survived. Adopted by a loving couple, she was named for the lavender pearl around her neck --- the only clue to her identity. While in Hawaii for her thirteenth birthday she visits Dolphin Quest and everything changes. As Pearl swims with the dolphins, she magically transforms into a mermaid. During her journey through the depths of the oceans, she learns of the murder of her parents and that her grandmother is the immortal Little Mermaid. The stories of Helmi, Miranda, and Pearl are woven together in a sweeping epic of romance and adventure, with a dazzling conclusion that changes the fate of mankind.

I Give This ...

 DNF (Did Not Finish)

I'm a huge little mermaid fan.  So, I really didn't even hesitate on this one.   However, I just could not get into the story.

I struggled with the varying viewpoints.  There seems to be a couple in the presents and a couple in different points in the past.  It took me awhile just to connect the dots on who was who.  4 days later and only 125 pages into the book, I decided to move on for now.  If I come back to this book, I will update my review.

On a side note, I'm not sure the cover is appropriate for the age group.  The author said the book was YA friendly but suitable for all ages.  My husband took one look at the cover and asked what kind of book I was reading.  

Review - The Boleyn Deceit (The Boleyn Trilogy #2) by Laura Andersen

Title: The Boleyn Deceit

Author: Laura Andersen

Series: 2nd (The Boleyn King)

Pages: 416

Published: November 5th 2013 by Ballantine Books 

ISBN: 9780345534118 

Source: Publisher via Netgalley

 Description: Henry IX, known as William, is the son of Anne Boleyn and now the leader of England, his regency period finally at an end. His newfound power, however, comes with the looming specter of war with the other major powers of Europe, with strategic alliances that must be forged on both the battlefield and in the bedroom, and with a court, severed by religion, rife with plots to take over the throne. Will trusts only three people: his older sister, Elizabeth; his best friend and loyal counselor, Dominic; and Minuette, a young orphan raised as a royal ward by Anne Boleyn. But as the pressure rises alongside the threat to his life, even they William must begin to question-and to fear....

I Give This ...

  I really enjoyed the first book in the series, but I was curious about the long term sustainability involving a character that's fictional surrounded by events and people that are very much a part of history.   I think the author has done a lot of research before tackling this series to make it seem as believable as possible.  

I wasn't sure what to think of William in the first book.   He's a young king stepping out of regency with a  powerful legacy to live up to.  I think he might have been afraid to spread his wings at first, but now he's really coming into his own.  I feel the author has done an excellent job of making it plausible that he's a mixture of Henry and Anne.  He seems to exhibit qualities from both parents.  He's fierce in his love for Minuette and will bend at nothing to get exactly what he wants.  He's manipulating history into place.

I found Elizabeth to be fascinating in this series.  She's pretty much in the exact same position that she was in history.  She knows she has the ability of be a wonderful ruler.  But, will she be given the chance?   The only difference is that I feel she doesn't have to walk on eggshells as much with Willliam and she really did with Mary.

I find it fascinating that the author has managed to make events still happen in different manners.  So, I have a feeling that the world is going to end up in a very similar situation when Elizabeth comes to power in this alternate version of history.   So, was it always Elizabeth's fate to become Queen?

The only thing about this book that throws me off a little is the absolute familiarity between William, Elizabeth, Minuette, and Dominic.  I just don't expect that.  It's obviously changing now that certain situations have come up.  I wonder if we will every get that tone that says "you can't speak in that familiar way become I am King"

I've loved this series so far.  I'm excited to see how we get to that final point in history!