Book Blogger Hop and Feature and Follow Friday

Book Blogger Hop is Hosted by Ramblings of A Coffee Addicted Writer

 

Have you ever ended up reading a book with its last or last few pages missing? What book was it? And how did you manage to get to the end?

 

I honestly don't think I ever have.  I imagine that would frustrate me to end, especially if it was a book that I had never read.  I have read books that had loose pages though.  I'm always afraid that I'm going to loose them! 

 

Feature and Follow Friday is hosted by Parajunkee & Alison Can Read

 

If you could only have ONE – one book – for the rest of your life. Don’t cheat…what would it be?

Wow!  What a question.  There are so many books that I've read over and over again.  I wonder if I would ever get tired of reading Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows because that is honestly my go to answer.  

 

 

Review - City of Bones (The Mortal Instruments #1) by Cassandra Clare

Title: City of Bones

Author: Cassandra Clare

Series: 1st

Pages: 485

Published: March 27th 2007 by Margaret K. McElderry Books 

ISBN: 9781416914280

Source: Library

Description: When fifteen-year-old Clary Fray heads out to the Pandemonium Club in New York City, she hardly expects to witness a murder -- much less a murder committed by three teenagers covered with strange tattoos and brandishing bizarre weapons. Then the body disappears into thin air. It's hard to call the police when the murderers are invisible to everyone else and when there is nothing -- not even a smear of blood -- to show that a boy has died. Or was he a boy? This is Clary's first meeting with the Shadowhunters, warriors dedicated to ridding the earth of demons. It's also her first encounter with Jace, a Shadowhunter who looks a little like an angel and acts a lot like a jerk. Within twenty-four hours Clary is pulled into Jace's world with a vengeance, when her mother disappears and Clary herself is attacked by a demon. But why would demons be interested in ordinary mundanes like Clary and her mother? And how did Clary suddenly get the Sight? The Shadowhunters would like to know. . . . 

 I Give This ...

I'm late on the band wagon with this one.  I've always meant to read this series, but it just never was a priority.  With the movie (finally) coming out, I decided to hop to it.   Sometimes, late to that party is a good thing!

I wasn't sure what to think at first.  Clary doesn't seem like the type to go to a club like Pandemonium.  If I didn't know better, I would think there were other reasons that the club brought her in.  As fate would have it, things were about to unravel for her.  In the blink of an eye, Clary is thrust into a world that she doesn't understand.  She can see Demons, a rare gift given to the Shadowhunters.  The Shadowhunters are a group of warriors whose job it is to rid the world of said Demons.

How Clary fits into this world was extremely predictable.  Turns out Clary's mother has been hiding things for her (and hiding her) for a long time.  But the circumstances behind all of it was extremely interesting.  As I learned about the world of that Clary was blind to, I got sucked into the story.  I liked that Clary questioned everything.  She just didn't accept the information presented to her.  She wanted to know more and to understand it.  I loved learning about who her mother was and the lengths she had gone to keep Clary in the dark (mind blocks by vampires anyone?).   

I had heard in many circles about Jace.  I was unprepared for how much I loved his character.  He's not there to be all dreamy and attract all the attention.  Yes, he sometimes uses his charm and good looks to his advantage, but I never got the impression that he enjoyed doing it.  Plus, his witty and sarcastic remarks were just the right touch.  I could feel the draw between Clary and Jace.  And dammit, when the truth was learned I was not happy.  

I also enjoyed the supporting cast of characters.  Simon was just the right touch of boy next door/love stuck best friend.   I'm curious how that relationship will develop in future books.  I also liked Jace's fellow Shadowhunters, Alec and Izzy.  Alec especially being an interesting character.  He seems to hold an instant dislike to Clary, for reasons unknown to Jace.  I also liked how other paranormal races are included in the book, including vampires and werewolves.

I obviously will be continuing this series!  Now that I've started...how could I not finish!

Review - The Bitter Kingdom (Fire and Thorns #3) by Rae Carson

Title: The Bitter Kingdom

Author: Rae Carson

Series: 3rd (The Girl of Fire and Thorns, The Crown of Embers)

Pages: 448

Published: August 27th 2013 by Greenwillow Books 

ISBN: 9780062026545

Source: Publisher via Edelweiss

Description: The epic conclusion to Rae Carson's Fire and Thorns trilogy. The seventeen-year-old sorcerer-queen will travel into the unknown realm of the enemy to win back her true love, save her country, and uncover the final secrets of her destiny. Elisa is a fugitive in her own country. Her enemies have stolen the man she loves in order to lure her to the gate of darkness. As she and her daring companions take one last quest into unknown enemy territory to save Hector, Elisa will face hardships she's never imagined. And she will discover secrets about herself and her world that could change the course of history. She must rise up as champion-a champion to those who have hated her most. 

I Give This ...

After finishing The Crown of Embers, I didn't waste any time before diving into this final installment.  So much has happened since the first book that I had to know our final ending.  This book might be perfect, or so close you can't tell the difference!

Elisa has courage to spare.  She's willing to go deep into enemy territory to get back the man she loves.  The
Invierne in turn have a deep seeded history against the humans that took over their world.  They no longer have the connection to the Zafira, and they blame humans for that.  The bearers of the godstones get most of that blame.  And because of that, they have a particularly cruel reason for wanting Elisa.  I was floored to discover what it was.  Turns out they found a way to connect to the Zafira, but they need a bearer to do it.

But, Elisa is turning into the Queen I knew she could be.  She presents herself to the leaders of the Inveirne with the help of Storm.  Turns out Storm may be an outcast among his people, but he's still a prince.   Elisa makes a deal with the Invierne, but one that's not honored by all of them.  To save her kingdom she must travel through the depths of the mines back to the edges of her country.  A horrifying journey to say the least.  Here is were Elisa truly proved her weight in gold.  She makes statements, commands loyalty, and exerts herself in ways I didn't see coming.

But, she's not done yet.  Now she must travel back to the center of her kingdom and wrestle back control from the very people that should have been helping her.  Her band of misfits seem unlikely to complete all of the impossible tasks.  Because who really thought a handmaiden, an outcast, a one-eyed man, the commander of the royal guard, and a young naive queen could bring the entire world together in peace.  Of course you have to add in the misfit they pick up along the way.  I really did love Red!

I devoured this book.  It never stopped moving forward at an insane pace. It was just the right mix of everything plus that fantasy element that I absolutely loved! It ended in just the right way as well.  The only thing that I was slightly disappointed in was Elisa's true purpose.  It wasn't what I was expecting.  And in light of all that she accomplished, it was extremely underwhelming.  

I series that I will be adding to my highly recommended books!  I will keep an eye out for what the author does next!

  

Review - By Royal Decree (Secrets of the Tudor Court #3) by Kate Emerson

Title: By Royal Decree 

Author: Kate Emerson

Series: 3rd (The Pleasure Palace, Between Two Queen's)

Pages: 353

Published: December 14th 2010 by Pocket

ISBN:  9781439177815

Source: Personal Copy

Description: Charming. Desirable. Forbidden. Brought to court with other eligible young noblewomen by the decree of King Henry VIII, lovely Elizabeth "Bess" Brooke realizes for the first time that beauty can be hazardous. Although Bess has no desire to wed the aging king, she and her family would have little choice if Henry's eye were to fall on her. And other dangers exist as well, for Bess has caught the interest of dashing courtier Will Parr. Bess finds Will's kisses as sweet as honey, but marriage between them may be impossible. Will is a divorced man, and remarriage is still prohibited. Bess and Will must hope that the king can be persuaded to issue a royal decree allowing Will to marry again . . . but to achieve their goal, the lovers will need royal favor. Amid the swirling alliances of royalty and nobles, Bess and Will perform a dangerous dance of palace intrigue and pulse-pounding passions. 

I Give This ... 

I've heard both Bess and Will's name heard before.  But for some reason, I had never really put the two together.  I was hoping that this book could really bring to life what these two might have gone through.

I've always found in fascinating that King Henry VIII could marry at whim, but the people couldn't do the same.  It's not that I'm agreeing with the way he did things, just that he's the poster boy for hypocrisy.  Especially in the case of William Parr.  He's wife was found guilty of adultery and therefore Will was considered divorced.  But, he didn't have the right to remarry at he pleased.  He had to appeal to the King and be granted a royal decree.

Bess had caught the eye of the King earlier, and thankfully nothing had come of it.  She enjoyed being at court though and it didn't take her long to find a little intrigue.  I was afraid at first that she was willing to just become Will's mistress and that Will wasn't willing to go the distance for Bess.   I was proved wrong though as Bess really defies everyone to be with the man she loves.  Will was a little less courageous, but I didn't blame him for tip-toeing around King Henry VII.  It was easier to wait until King Edward came to the throne.  Also didn't hurt that a little blackmail was done to get what they wanted.

I found Will and Bess' relationship interesting because their status changed according to who was on the throne.  Under protestant rule (which included both King Edward and Queen Elizabeth), their marriage was valid.   The couple thrived under King Edward and as marchioness, Bess was one of the highest ladies in the land.  However, in between the two, England was under strict Catholic rule at Queen Mary was not forgiving.  Their marriage was struck down and it was decreed that Will was still married to his previous wife.  Their were times I seriously wondered if either of them might lose their heads due to their constant defiance of the Queen.

Through it all Will and Bess remained together.  I admired that because I think it showed that they were truly in love.  Bess refused to marry someone else.  She believed she was Will's true wife and would see him through anything.  Will never gave me any reason to doubt his feelings either.   I did feel slightly sorry for his ex wife though.  He titles and land came from her.  So, she kind of got the short of the end stick when their marriage was declared invalid.  Although really...she brought it on herself.

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 Chaos of Stars by Kiersten White
• His Last Mistress by Andrea Zuvich 
• Dead Girls Don't' Lie by Jennifer Shaw Wolf  

 

Currently Reading: 

 

• Dead Reckoning by Charlaine Harris

 

Up This Week: 

•  Scorched by Mari Mancusi
•  Tumble & Fall by Alexandra Coutts 

Stacking the Shelves!

For Review:  

• Scorched by Mari Mancusi
• The Iron Traitor by Julie Kagawa
• A Spark Unseen by Sharon Cameron
• These Broken Stars by Amie Kaufman & Meagan Spooner
• Inhuman by Kat Fells

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 - The Crown of Embers (Fire and Thorns #2) by Rae Carson

Title: The Crown of Embers

Author: Rae Carson

Series: 2nd (The Girl of Fire and Thorns)

Pages: 410

Published: September 18th 2012 by Greenwillow Books 

ISBN: 9780062026514

Source: Personal Copy

Description: Elisa is the hero of her country. She led her people to victory against a terrifying enemy, and now she is their queen. But she is only seventeen years old. Her rivals may have simply retreated, choosing stealth over battle. And no one within her court trusts her-except Hector, the commander of the royal guard, and her companions. As the country begins to crumble beneath her and her enemies emerge from the shadows, Elisa will take another journey. With a one-eyed warrior, a loyal friend, an enemy defector, and the man she is falling in love with, Elisa crosses the ocean in search of the perilous, uncharted, and mythical source of the Godstone's power. 

I Give This ...

Why, oh why, do I let books sit on my shelf for so long.  I should have read this long ago.  It was everything the first book was and possibly more!  

I love that Elisa was so bad ass in the first book, but now she has no idea what to do.  It's not that she doesn't have the capability to do great things.  She just recognizes that she's only 17 and some of the higher-ups don't trust her.  And some will do anything to get her off the throne.  She doesn't have complete control of her own kingdom.  But, in all reality, she needs to decide how bad she wants to be in control.  I think there are times she realizes how easy it would be to hand over the reigns.

I'm glad she doesn't do it (not the I ever expected her too).   Elisa shows tremendous strength when she needs to.  She steps above those who try to exert their power. I also admired what she did with the kitchen staff when an attempt at poison was made.  She's not a scared little girl any more.  I enjoyed her journey through her own kingdom and into the boundary areas.  She takes risks to keep her hold on the throne.  

I loved the romance in this installment.  Elisa is pushed to picking a husband, but she finds herself completely enthralled by Hector.   And it's not hard to understand why.  He's always there when she needs him and seems to understand her ways that no one else can.  But their positions made me wonder if a relationship was even possible.  Turns out Hector is hidings some secrets that might make him the perfect candidate!  I did enjoy the addition of one of her suitors Tristan.  

The story had it all for me, enough that debated giving it a 5 ratings.  But, I will keep it at a 4 because it was a little slows in parts.  And at times I wanted Elisa to make up her mind and get to it.  But, I loved it by the end.  Good thing The Bitter Kingdom is already for me to read with no waiting!

 

B & K's Reading Daze - All Tutus Should Be Pink

I have two girls who love to read as much as I do.  They are  7 and 5.  My oldest has grown in  leaps and bounds in the reading department.  My youngest is beginning to pick up on sight words.  I'm so excited that this love of mine seems to be passing on to them.  So B & K's Reading Daze highlights a book (or books) they have enjoyed over the past month.   

 

Title: All Tutus Should Be Pink

Author: Sheri Brownrigg

Pages: 32

Published:  April 1st 1992 by Turtleback Books 

ISBN: 9780833586827

Source: Library

 

 

 

 

 

 

I'm always extremely pleased when we find a book I KNOW my oldest will enjoy.  She's been dancing since she was 3, so this book was right up her alley.

 

She loves the story line.  The little girls in the story love to dance and they love to wear their tutus everywhere they go.  The story goes on to tell us why tutus should be pink.  Including the reason that pink hides drips best when they eat strawberry ice cream.  My daughter enjoyed this part because she knows she can't eat anything in her performance tutus!

 

I liked that it was the perfect reading level for her, it actually might have been a little bit below her level.  She didn't struggle with it at all.  So, its perfect for those readers in 1st and 2nd who tend to be right on target with their reading levels.  

 

Now to find a couple others just like this! 

 

 

 

 

Review - The Love Dare for Parents by Stephen Kendrick & Alex Kendrick

Title: The Love Dare for Parents

Author: Stephen Kendrick & Alex Kendrick

Series: Stand Alone

Pages: 256

Published: July 1st 2013 by B&H Books 

ISBN:  9781433668524

Source: Publisher via Netgalley

Description: From the authors of international best-selling marriage book The Love Dare comes The Love Dare for Parents, a 40-day journey of “dares” challenging one or both parents to understand, practice, and communicate Christ-like love to their children. Easy to read and work into a busy schedule, The Love Dare for Parents is designed to “turn the hearts of parents to their children and turn the hearts of children to their parents” (Malachi 4:6) so that moms and dads can more fully enjoy and delight in their children while maximizing the positive impact they have on their lives long term.Each day brings a promising key verse from Scripture, a biblical principle about love that applies to parenting, a specific challenge the parent does for the sake of their child, and space to journal thoughts and reflect on what happened that day. The Love Dare for Parents even includes access to a FREE online parenting assessment, helpfully keyed to select material in the book. Parents, take the dare! 

I Give This ...

I have to be honest and say that I didn't put much thought into The Love Dare for Couples.  Maybe at the time I glanced through it I felt like it didn't apply to us.  But, I was curious about this one.  So, I requested it.

Even if you don't have a close (or any) relationship with God, there is some great advice in this book.  Each day describes a way to offer a better relationship with your child.  Simple things that I think many people take for granted or think they are doing.   It talks about showing patience, not being selfish, becoming a person they know they can turn to.  I feel like I have a great relationship with my children, but I liked how this book taught me how I could be better.   I want to have the best relationship possible with them, and I want to feel like I am helping them become the best person they can be.

I liked how each day had a challenge.   While, I didn't actively participate in all of the challenges, I admired what the book was pushing you to do.  I feel that it could be tailored to each individual family (even those who don't believe could take this book and use it).   I also really enjoyed the appendixes.  There are some great tips and really pull together the rest of the book.

I'm glad I read this and will be working on implementing some of the things into our lives!

Review - Sever (The Chemical Garden #3) by Lauren DeStefano

Title: Sever

Author: Lauren Destefano

Series: 3rd (Wither, Fever)

Pages: 371

Published:  February 12th 2013 by Simon & Schuster Books For Young Readers 

ISBN: 9781442409095

Source: Personal Copy

 

Description: With the clock ticking until the virus takes its toll, Rhine is desperate for answers. After enduring Vaughn’s worst, Rhine finds an unlikely ally in his brother, an eccentric inventor named Reed. She takes refuge in his dilapidated house, though the people she left behind refuse to stay in the past. While Gabriel haunts Rhine’s memories, Cecily is determined to be at Rhine’s side, even if Linden’s feelings are still caught between them. Meanwhile, Rowan’s growing involvement in an underground resistance compels Rhine to reach him before he does something that cannot be undone. But what she discovers along the way has alarming implications for her future—and about the past her parents never had the chance to explain. In this breathtaking conclusion to Lauren DeStefano’s Chemical Garden trilogy, everything Rhine knows to be true will be irrevocably shattered. 

I Give This ...

For the most part, this series has been an enjoyable read.  So, I was looking forward to this book.  But, I'm always nervous when it comes to the last book in a series.  I wasn't exactly disappointed with this book.  It just a couple different routes than I expected.

After all that has happened, it seems crazy to me that Linden still doesn't believe that his father might be the bad guy.  It's like he honestly things its all one big misunderstanding or that Rhine was entirely coherent.   I get the fact that it's his father, but I think its taking the bond a little too far.   But, it many ways he is putting Rhine and Cecily above his father.   At the same time, I don't think he every had the upper hand.

I found Reed to be an interesting addition to this story.  Especially because he's Linden's uncle.  A far cry from the type of man that Vaughn is.   He's probably the only person besides Rhine to stand up to Vaughn.  Oddly enough Vaughn also respects that.  He may threaten, but I wondered if he was slightly afraid of Reed.  He has ties to the underground resistance which helps Rhine locate Rowan.

I was surprised at the directions this book took.  We ended up visiting past locations and learning some shocking truths.   Oddly enough so many things that have occurred are tied to Rhine and Rowan right from the very beginning.  But what was truly shocking to me was that once Rhine learns the truth about her past its like she gives up all she has been fighting for.  I expected way more fight from her and that was disappointing.  

So the ending was far cry from what I was expecting.  But, I can't picture how this would have worked to get any sort of happy ending.  While this had a lot of heartache in it, there was also a feeling of hope at the end.  So, I decided to take it as it was.  In the end, I enjoyed the story even if I felt Rhine wasn't entirely true to herself.  

  

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: 

• By Royal Decree by Kate Emerson
•  The Bitter Kingdom by Rae Carson  
• The Chaos of Stars by Kiersten White

Currently Reading: 

•  The Chaos of Stars by Kiersten White

Up This Week:

• His Last Mistress by Andrea Zuvich
• Dead Girls Don't' Lie by Jennifer Shaw Wolf

 

S.R. Johannes Street Team Invite!

Hi guys! I have some pretty exciting news! One of my favorite authors, S.R. Johannes, has just launched a new street team.   What is a street team? A street team is a group of fans or supporters who rally behind an artist, band, or author. Street teams provide ways for us fans to help spread the word about the books and authors we love. Plus as a bonus most street teams offer really neat perks for being a part of the group. Think of it like your book club, but cooler.    

Why should I join Johannes' street team? 

 Because Shelli is awesome! But if that is not enough for you here are a few of the perks that come with being a street team member:

• A special welcome pack - which includes a "cool" badge for your blog along with bookmark, pen, signed bookplates, press kit on the book, and more.
• A free ebook of your choice with a chance to win more.
• Monthly missions - A monthly drawing for members only if you complete the special mission. The prizes will include book gift cards, books, ARCs, query critiques, and other fun stuff.
• Receive 1 ebook and or swag pack a year for a giveaways on your blog.
• Coffee talks - come visit me at my appearances and hang out for coffee afterwards.
• And MORE (check out Shelli's blog for the full list!)

 How can I join Johannes' street team? That's pretty darn easy! If you are already a fan of Shelli's book all you have to do is fill out the sign up form and join us over on our special Facebook group. All of the details are listed here in Shelli's blog post.   About Untraceable:

 

Title: Untraceable

Series: The Nature of Grace, Book One

Genre/Keywords: Contemporary Thriller

Length: 315 pages Extras: Blog Tour

Release date: Print: November 29, 2011 – ebook: November 15, 2011

ebook ISBN: 978-0-9847991-0-7

Paperback ISBN: 978-0-9847991-2-1

Purchase: Amazon paperback & ebook   signed copies   Barnes & Noble   local indie bookstore

Summary: Grace grew up in the woods. When her forest ranger dad disappears on patrol, she fights town authorities, tribal officials, & nature to prove he’s alive. Torn between a hot boy and cute ex, she heads into the wilderness to find her dad. Soon, Grace is caught in a web of conspiracy, deception, and murder. It will take more than a compass and motorcycle for this tough heroine to save all she loves.   

 Praise for Untraceable:

"This thrilling story is a dramatic entanglement of mystery, deception and teen romance. The action flows like a brisk mountain stream interspersed with rapids, holding suspense to last page." - Kirkus Reviews

“Johannes has done a marvelous job of creating a suspense-filled mystery with surprises that keep you guessing all the way to the end. Untraceable is a thoroughly engrossing and riveting page-turner.” - IndieReader

"This story is action-packed and very funny in some parts. There is even a bit of young romance...There is a strong message of wildlife conservation, so it is somewhat educational in that aspect." - Readers Favorite

"Grace is a spunky, independent, nature girl who doesn't need a boy to save her. With wilderness survival, a juicy love triangle, and more twists and turns than a roller coaster, this fast-paced novel had me holding my breath until the very last page—and still begging for more!" -Kimberly Derting, author of Body Finder series (Harper Teen)

 

About the Author:

S.R. Johannes is the award-winning author of the Amazon bestselling thriller series, The Nature of Grace (Untraceable and Uncontrollable). Unstoppable (book 3) is scheduled for September 2013.

S.R. Johannes is the YA advisor of ALLi and a winner of the 2012 IndieReader Discovery Awards (Young Adult category) as well as a Silver medalist (2nd place) in the IPPY awards for YA Fiction. She was also nominated for 2012 Georgia Author of the Year (Young Adult category), a Finalist in The Kindle Book Review's Best Young Adult of 2012, and a YA Finalist in the US Book News Best Book of 2012.

After earning an MBA and working in corporate America doing marketing for over 15 years, S.R. Johannes traded in her expensive suits, high heels, and corporate lingo for a family, flip-flops, and her love of writing. She lives in Atlanta, Georgia with her dog, English-accented husband, and the huge imaginations of their little prince and princess, which she hopes -someday- will change the world.

 

Website | Twitter | Facebook | Goodreads | Pinterest | Newsletter | Bilan Inc

Review - Dreamfever (Fever #4) by Karen Marie Moning

Title: Dreamfever

Author: Karen Marie Moning

Series: 4th (Darkfever, Bloodfever, Faefever)

Pages: 400

Published: August 18th 2009 by Delacorte Press 

ISBN:  9780385341653

Source: Library

 

Description: MacKayla Lane lies naked on the cold stone floor of a church, at the mercy of the erotic Fae master she once swore to kill. Far from home, unable to control her sexual hungers, MacKayla is now fully under the Lord Master’s spell.…The walls between human and Fae worlds have come crashing down. And as Mac fights for survival on Dublin’s battle-scarred streets, she will embark on the darkest—and most erotically charged—adventure of her life.  He has stolen her past, but MacKayla will never allow her sister’s murderer to take her future. Yet even the uniquely gifted sidhe-seer is no match for the Lord Master, who has unleashed an insatiable sexual craving that consumes Mac’s every thought—and thrusts her into the seductive realm of two very dangerous men, both of whom she desires but dares not trust.  As the enigmatic Jericho Barrons and the sensual Fae prince V’lane vie for her body and soul, as cryptic entries from her sister’s diary mysteriously appear and the power of the Dark Book weaves its annihilating path through the city, Mac’s greatest enemy delivers a final challenge.… It’s an invitation Mac cannot refuse, one that sends her racing home to Georgia, where an even darker threat awaits. With her parents missing and the lives of her loved ones under siege, Mac is about to come face-to-face with a soul-shattering truth—about herself and her sister, about Jericho Barrons…and about the world she thought she knew.

I Give This ...

The end of the third book left be reeling.  But, diving into the next book had to wait due to the stack of review books that I let get a little out of control.  But, when the pile dwindled down, you can bet this was one of the first book I picked up from the library.

I was curious how Mac was going to get out of the predicament that she was in.  No one has come back after being made Pri-Ya.  I didn't fully grasp what that meant, but the book when on to give up a feel for it without really making it a focal point of the story.  I was more concerned that Mac get back to her regular ass kicking self, and thankfully the book was too.  Granted, it was damn interesting how she gets herself back.  It was not what I was expecting, although I was waiting for it to happen.  

Once Mac comes back, she's on a mission.  I know she's been on one all along, but it's like a switch was flipped.  She's not going to take shit from anybody.  She wants her city back, her sister's murder avenged, her parents safe, and the naysayers to shut up.  She may be Rainbow Girl, but she's going to mix in some black while she's at it.  I loved how she recognizes that she can't do it all on her own.  She's needs help and is finally willing to bend a little to get it.

I loved the descriptions of the chaos the world is in.  The world has changed drastically while she was out of it.  Fae have openly taken over the city.  People are either dieing in drastic numbers or willing to become the Fae's prey.  But, all Mac's fighting comes to a grinding halt when the Lord Master makes good on a threat.  He kidnaps Mac's parents and she must travel through the mirrors to get them back.  Absolutely intense...and a huge cliffhanger.  

This series has been awesome so far.  Hopefully back to school won't cause me to put the next book in the series on the back burner for too long!

  

Review - One Tiny Lie (Ten Tiny Breaths #2) by K.A. Tucker

Title: One Tiny Lie

Author: K.A. Tucker

Series: 2nd (Ten Tiny Breaths)

Pages: 336

Published: June 11th 2013 by Atria Books 

ISBN:  9781476740485

Source: Publisher via Edelweiss

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Description: Livie has always been the stable one of the two Cleary sisters, handling her parents' tragic death and Kacey's self-destructive phase with strength and maturity. But underneath that exterior is a little girl hanging onto the last words her father ever spoke to her. “Make me proud,” he had said. She promised she would...and she’s done her best over the past seven years with every choice, with every word, with every action. Livie walks into Princeton with a solid plan, and she’s dead set on delivering on it: Rock her classes, set herself up for medical school, and meet a good, respectable guy that she’s going to someday marry. What isn’t part of her plan are Jell-O shots, a lovable, party animal roommate she can’t say ‘no’ to, and Ashton, the gorgeous captain of the men’s rowing team. Definitely him. He’s an arrogant ass who makes Livie’s usually non-existent temper flare and everything she doesn’t want in a guy. Worse, he’s best friends and roommates with Connor, who happens to fits Livie’s criteria perfectly. So why does she keep thinking about Ashton? As Livie finds herself facing mediocre grades, career aspirations she no longer thinks she can handle, and feelings for Ashton that she shouldn’t have, she’s forced to let go of her last promise to her father and, with it, the only identity that she knows.

 

I Give This ...

 

I loved the first book in this series and couldn't wait to open up this one.  First off, I did not think it was as good as Ten Tiny Breaths.  But, I was okay with that.  This book is about Livie. And while she is damaged, she's damaged in entirely different ways that Kacey.  

 

I was a little concerned the entire story was going to be about getting Livie laid.  It seemed to be the only idea everybody comes up with to get Livie to loosen up.  Up until this point Livie has lived with her head in the books with little time for friends and no time for dating.  She's going to live up to that promise she made her father no matter what it takes.  But take away sex aspect of the story and there was a story that I really identified with.  Livie goes to college and those free reigns are just hard for her to deal with.  I got it...completely.  It was hard for her to attend class when her roommate begged her to go out until all hours of the night.  And for a girl who barely had to crack a book in high school, college is different.  And she's wanted a certain future for so long, that it's hard to entertain the thought of something else.

 

I enjoyed the romantic aspect of the story as well.  First we have Connor, that perfect boy next door.  You know the one right?  You can picture your life together right down to the 2.5 children and house with the white picket fence.  Forget the sparks though.  I liked him and felt bad for him at the same time because you could tell that it just wasn't there.  And then there's Ashton.  Part of me really wanted to tell Livie to stay far far away from him.  He's that perpetual bad boy that every girl thinks they can fix.  But, it turns out that Ashton is way deeper than that.  I was not expecting the chaos beneath the surface.  He saw a kindred spirit in Livie and that scared the hell out of him.

 

I still think the psychiatrist guy is crazy, or maybe he's brilliant but completely nontraditional.  I love the brief glimpses we get of Kasey.  She's still exactly were she should be although its entertaining to see her pushing Livie into uncomfortable situations.  Just what a big sister should do right..within reason of course.  

 

I will follow this series of course.  I love the way the author has built up these characters and I want to see were they go from here!