Review - One Good Earl Deserves a Lover (The Rules of Scoundrels #2) by Sarah MacLean

Title: One Good Earl Deserves a Lover

Author: Sarah MacLean

Series: 2nd (A Rogue by Any Other Name)

Pages: 373 

Published:January 29th 2013 by Avon 

ISBN: 9780062068538

Source: Publisher via Edelweiss

 

Description: Lady Philippa Marbury is odd. The bespectacled, brilliant fourth daughter of the Marquess of Needham and Dolby cares more for books than balls, flora than fashion and science than the season. Nearly engaged to Lord Castleton, Pippa wants to explore the scandalous parts of London she's never seen before marriage. And she knows just who to ask: the tall, charming, quick-witted bookkeeper of The Fallen Angel, London's most notorious and coveted gaming hell, known only as Cross. Like any good scientist, Pippa's done her research and Cross's reputation makes him perfect for her scheme. She wants science without emotion—the experience of ruination without the repercussions of ruination. And who better to provide her with the experience than this legendary man? But when this odd, unexpected female propositions Cross, it's more than tempting . . . and it will take everything he has to resist following his instincts—and giving the lady precisely what she wants. 

I Give This ...

  

I was so excited to learn that this second book was about Lady Philippa.  There was something about her in this first book that just really grabbed me.  I love stories that let the blue stocking girl fall in love.

I love that Pippa tries to made everything about love and marriage a scientific thing.  She doesn't understand things that you can't explain.  Since she hasn't experienced any of it, she doesn't feel like she can undertake her vows without fully understanding what it means.  I love that she's though this whole thing through to the point that she knows who to ask.  And it never crosses her mind to be afraid of what she is considering doing.  In her mind it's nothing more than research.  

I think Cross might be one of my favorite male romance characters.  When we learn the full extent of his past and how he's been punishing himself, I was amazed that he had any willpower at all.  I think Pippa was just the women he needed to forgive himself for his past sins.

The more I learn about this gaming hell, the more intrigues me.  While obviously not a business of well repute, it has an interesting reputation.  It has some interesting secrets as do its owners.  I'm happy to learn a few more of them in the next book in the series.  

Review - The Goddess Inheritance (Goddess Test #3) by Aimee Carter

Title: The Goddess Inheritance

Author: Aimee Carter

Series: 3rd (The Goddess Test, Goddess Interuppted) 

Pages: 384

Published: February 26th 2013 by Harlequin Teen

ISBN: 9780373210671

Source: Publisher via Netgalley

Description: During nine months of captivity, Kate Winters has survived a jealous goddess, a vengeful Titan and a pregnancy she never asked for. Now the Queen of the Gods wants her unborn child, and Kate can't stop her--until Cronus offers a deal.  In exchange for her loyalty and devotion, the King of the Titans will spare humanity and let Kate keep her child. Yet even if Kate agrees, he'll destroy Henry, her mother and the rest of the council. And if she refuses, Cronus will tear the world apart until every last god and mortal is dead.  With the fate of everyone she loves resting on her shoulders, Kate must do the impossible: find a way to defeat the most powerful being in existence, even if it costs her everything.  Even if it costs her eternity. 

I Give This ...

I was really looking forward to this book.  I've enjoyed the modernization of Greek mythology and the way the characters are presented.  I was hoping for a satisfying ending!

Kate has really come into her own throughout the series.  I wasn't sure I liked her in the first book, but I definitely identified with her in this one.   I understood her intense need to save her child, sometimes even at the expense of Henry.  Mother's have a different bond with their children.  We have a fierce need to protect them from harm.  She's willing to trade her own life to save his.  She'll bargain for Henry as well.  

Henry was interesting to me.  For so long he had nothing to live for.  Now he has Kate and it doesn't take him long to realize they have something bigger than the both of them to protect.  He's change of heart has made him one of my favorite characters that I've had the pleasure of reading about.  I wasn't sure he could really put himself out there.  But, he does it.

So why the 3 rating?  I felt like this book was slow getting to the point.  We follow Kate around a lot while she's trying to come up with a way to save them all.  It seems like a lot of talk and very little action.  I was also expecting a battle, but didn't get it.  I'm not a big fan of things ending in this manner.   It doesn't feel real.

The book wasn't disappointing per say.  I'm overall happy with the way things turned out.  I'll look for her next work as well!

 

 

Review - Ruined (Ruined #1) by Paula Morris

Title: Ruined

Author: Paula Morris

Series: 1st

Pages: 304

Published:  August 1st 2009 by Point

ISBN:  9780545042154

Source: Personal

Description: Rebecca couldn't feel more out of place in New Orleans, where she comes to spend the year while her dad is traveling. She's staying in a creepy old house with her Aunt Claudia, who reads Tarot cards for a living. And at the snooty prep school, a pack of filthy-rich girls treat Rebecca like she's invisible. Only gorgeous, unavailable Anton Grey seems to give Rebecca the time of day, but she wonders if he's got a hidden agenda. Then one night, in Lafayette Cemetery, Rebecca makes a friend. Sweet, mysterious Lisette is eager to talk to Rebecca, and to show her the nooks and crannies of the city. 

 I Give This ...


New Orleans is a city that really fascinates me, even though I've never been there.  Add in ghosts, and this book became a must read for me.

I wasn't sure what to think of Rebecca at first.  It kind of seems like she's lead a sheltered and maybe a little bit of a pampered life.  Her dad really throws a kink in things when he has her move to New Orleans while he travels on business.  I get that she's upset about it, but it drove me crazy how it seemed like she purposely tries to make her short stay as miserable as possible.  I was happy to see her finally try to make New Orleans her home when she begins to help Liseette.

The other things that seems to light a fire in Rebecca is Anton.  Of course it all boils down to a boy.  The hot guy in school pays attention to her and all the girls are jealous.  It felt a little typical.  Just the added twist of private schools, old money, and family feuds.  Rebecca doesn't fit into all of that.  Or does she ...

The mystery of our ghost wasn't really hard to figure out, neither was the twist in the story.   I did enjoy that journey to get there.  But, the book felt a little bit too teenish for my taste.  I did really love the history that is included in this book.  Really makes me want to visit New Orleans someday!

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:  

 

 

• Purgatory Reign by L.M. Preston  
•  The Runaway King by Jennifer A. Nielsen
• Unbroken by Paula Morris    

 Currently Reading:  

• Requiem by Lauren Oliver

 

Up This Week:  

 

• Poison by Bridget Zinn
• Beautiful Darkness by Kami Garcia and Margaret Stohl     

In My Mailbox!

For Review: 

• Gameboard of the Gods by Richelle Mead
• The Eternity Cure by Julie Kagawa

Swapped: 

• Falling Kingdoms by Morgan Rhodes 

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!

 

 

In My Mailbox is hosted by Kristi from The Story Siren and she was inspired by Alea of Pop Culture Junkie!

Review - Mind Games (Mind Games #1) by Kiersten White

Title: Mind Games

Author: Kiersten White

Series: Stand Alone

Pages: 256

Published: February 19th 2013 by HarperTeen 

ISBN: 9780062135315

Source: Publisher via Edelweiss

Description: Two sisters, bound by impossible choices, are determined to protect each other—no matter the cost.  James's frozen face melts into a smile. "Do you want to know the trick to getting in trouble under the watchful eye of a psychic?"  I think of the nailed-shut windows. I think of Clarice. I think of the two, the two, the two who are now zero. Tap tap. "Yes, I absolutely do."  "Don't plan it. Don't even think about it. The second you get an inkling of what you could do, do it then. Never plan anything ahead of time. Always go on pure instinct."  I smile. "I think I can do that."

I Give This ...
 

I was extremely excited for this book.  I loved her first series, plus she shares my daughter's name!

Unfortunately, I felt this book was a little short of my expectations.  I never got a firm grasp on the characters to be fully invested in the story.  I liked Annie the most out of all the characters.  I felt sorry for all the promises by the school that were never fulfilled.  Once they realized that Fia has all the power, Annie because a bystander.  A powerful tool used to keep Fia under control.

The powers that are present at the school were a little confusing.  It seems like everything was rushed.  It seemed like forever before I had an idea about what Fia could do, and even then it didn't seem like this power that should be as coveted as it was.  Maybe it was because I just didn't really like Fia.  She was so angry all the time and resigned to the life that had been handed to her.  It didn't seem like there was much fight in her at all.

I do have to admit that I'm immensely curious how this all fits together.  There seems to be to rival groups here both after these women and girls who are blessed with these gifts.  I'm not entirely sure that either one of them has good intentions.  Although it seems that one is definitely more evil than the other.  I'll see what I think when the next book comes along. 

 

Review - India Black and the Shadows of Anarchy (Madam of Espionage Mysteries #3) by Carol K. Carr

Title: India Black and the Shadows of Anarachy

Author: Carol K. Carr

Series: 3rd (India Black, India Black and the Widow of Windsor)

Pages: 320

Published: February 5th 2013 by Berkley Trade 

ISBN: 9780425255957

Source: Sent for honest review

Description:  India Black, full-time madam and occasional secret agent, is feeling restless, when one of Disraeli's men calls on her to meet the prime minister--alone. Even though all her previous meetings have been organized by the rakishly handsome spy French, it's been decided this is a mission India must attempt on her own.  Revolt has spread across Europe and reached the shores of England--anarchists have begun assassinating lords and earls, one by one. Now India must infiltrate the ranks of the underground group responsible for those attacks, the sinister Dark Legion. To stop their dread plot, India will go from the murkiest slums of London to the highest levels of society, uncovering secrets that threaten her very existence...

 I Give This ...

  

I love India, so I was really looking forward to this latest book in the series.  It didn't disappoint, but I felt it was a little less exciting than the previous books in the series.

India really is the same heroine I have come to know and love.  I love that she never bats and eye when it comes to joining forces with this zealots who want to bring down the monarchy.   I often wondered if they were buying her story, but she never seemed to waiver.  She was more than willing to do what it takes to prove that she's loyal to the cause.  I don't think they couldn't have put any better of a person in that situation.

I think the reason that it didn't live up to my idea was because I really missed French.  It wasn't just his interaction with India that I wanted, I wanted more of him.   He's missing for a part of the beginning.  But when we do finally see him, India and French need to act like they don't know each other.  It's safer for both of the.   We do finally get that interaction, and I really enjoyed every moment of it. 

I loved some of the events in the story.  We're finally getting closer to knowing who India might really be.  And the tension between French and India is to the point that something has got to give!  I'm hoping this isn't that end, because I would love to see a 4th book in the series!

Review - A Rogue by Any Other Name (The Rules of Scoundrels #1) by Sarah MacLean

Title: A Rogue by Any Other Name

Author: Sarah MacLean

Series: 1st

Pages: 386

Published: February 28th 2012 by Avon 

ISBN: 9780062068521

Source: Purchased Copy

 

Description:  A decade ago, the Marquess of Bourne was cast from society with nothing but his title. Now a partner in London’s most exclusive gaming hell, the cold, ruthless Bourne will do whatever it takes to regain his inheritance—including marrying perfect, proper Lady Penelope Marbury.  A broken engagement and years of disappointing courtships have left Penelope with little interest in a quiet, comfortable marriage, and a longing for something more. How lucky that her new husband has access to such unexplored pleasures.  Bourne may be a prince of London’s underworld, but he vows to keep Penelope untouched by its wickedness—a challenge indeed as the lady discovers her own desires, and her willingness to wager anything for them... even her heart.

I Give This ...

  

 This new series was highly anticipated in my book.  I'm not one for what I call "harlequin romances."  But, I was completely hooked after her first series.

I was completely in love Penelope within the first few moments of meeting her.  I loved her attitude.  She's not bitter when it comes to  her circumstances, but she knows that she won't be happy until she has a love match.  She's seen it, so she knows its a possibility.  Interestingly enough I think in her heart she's know all along who she loves.  

  I wasn't sure about Bourne for the longest time.  He was so cold and bitter that I wasn't sure that he would ever give in to what we knew he was feeling for Penelope.  He had spent so much of his adult life with his eyes on revenge that I didn't think that the promise of love would be enough.  It was never  his intention and it doesn't belong in his world.

The world that each of them inhabit are so far apart that its a wonder that they even collided to behind with.  Someone has to character to the darker whims of the acrostic, and I think Bourne is the perfect person for it.  I loved the little glimpses we get of his partners.  They each have an interesting story to tell and I'm looking forward to hearing it.

I liked how their relationship progresses.  Its an interesting mix of love and hatred at first, but Bourne often goes out of his way to make Penelope happy.  Even if its not in the ways she really wants.  MacLean has a knack for writing romance in this time period.  I'm looking forward to 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:  

 

• The Goddess Inheritance by Aimee Carter 
• One Good Early Deserves A Lover by Sarah MacLean
• Shadowfall by Erin Kellison  

 

Currently Reading:  

 

• Purgatory Reign by L.M. Preston  

 

Up This Week:  

 

•  The Runaway King by Jennifer A. Nielsen 
• Unbroken by Paula Morris    

In My Mailbox!

For Review:  

• Afterglow by Karsten Knight
• The Vow by Jessica Martiniz
• Bang by Lisa McMann
• The Boleyn King by Laura Anderson

Purchased: 

• How to Save A Life by Sara Zarr
• Juliet Immortal by Stacey Jay
• Beautiful Redemption by Kami Garcia and Margaret Stohl
• The Messenger by Leah Rose

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!

 

 

In My Mailbox is hosted by Kristi from The Story Siren and she was inspired by Alea of Pop Culture Junkie!

Waiting on Wednesday - Dance of the Red Death by Bethany Griffin

"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: Dance of the Red Death

Author: Bethany Griffin

 

Description:  In Dance of the Red Death, Araby’s world is in shambles—betrayal, death, disease, and evil forces surround her. She has no one to trust. But she finds herself and discovers that she will fight for the people she loves, and for her city.  Her revenge will take place at the menacing masked ball, though it could destroy her and everyone she loves…or it could turn her into a hero.  

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The first book captured my interest enough that I really would like to read this one.  I like the idea behind this series. 

 

 

Review - Pivot Point (Pivot Point #1) by Kasie West

Review: Pivot Point

Author: Kasie West

Pages: 352

Series: 1st 

Published: February 12th 2013 by HarperTeen 

ISBN: 9780062117373

Source: Publisher via Edelweiss

Description: Addison Coleman’s life is one big “What if?” As a Searcher, whenever Addie is faced with a choice, she can look into the future and see both outcomes. It’s the ultimate insurance plan against disaster. Or so she thought. When Addie’s parents ambush her with the news of their divorce, she has to pick who she wants to live with—her father, who is leaving the paranormal compound to live among the “Norms,” or her mother, who is staying in the life Addie has always known. Addie loves her life just as it is, so her answer should be easy. One Search six weeks into the future proves it’s not.  In one potential future, Addie is adjusting to life outside the Compound as the new girl in a Norm high school where she meets Trevor, a cute, sensitive artist who understands her. In the other path, Addie is being pursued by the hottest guy in school—but she never wanted to be a quarterback’s girlfriend. When Addie’s father is asked to consult on a murder in the Compound, she’s unwittingly drawn into a dangerous game that threatens everything she holds dear. With love and loss in both lives, it all comes down to which reality she’s willing to live through . . . and who she can’t live without.
I Give This ...

  

Every once in awhile a book comes on the radar that has an idea that seems so fresh and new that I can't help but be excited about it.  That's what this one was for me.  And, I am so happy to report that this lived up to my expectations.  

At first I was a little confused about this special town and the powers the people possessed.  The different terms used to describe the people are specific to their powers and aren't very well explained.  Some of the terms make perfect sense, but others don't.  It took awhile to get use to it.  But once I understood how it all worked, I found that I really enjoyed the idea behind it all.

I found Addie to be particularly fascinating.  Her power is an anomaly.  She can search into the future how specific decisions will play out.  I can't imagine knowing how each decision could be influenced in that manner.  Each potential future is told through alternating chapters.  I thought it might be a little hard to follow, but I found that I had no trouble.  What was amazing to me was how each future had the potential to overlap.    It's one of the instances that it clearly shows how much thought the author put into her story.  Each little detail coincides with another event in the other future.  It was absolutely amazing to me.

I also found it extremely interesting to watch how each future played out.  The idea that know matter what choices you make, you might be predestined to be in specific places and specific times.  The people and events might change slightly, but you will end up exactly were you are meant to be.  I also really enjoyed the ending, although it felt a little rushed after Addie makes her decision which future to live out.  But, I've found it's a hard gap to write about (that moment between the future she's seen and when that actual moment arrives).  

Overall an awesome book!  I'm really excited to see where the story goes.  I have no idea how this will play out into a series.