by H.M. Ward
Rating: 5/5
Well I may be a little biased since Peter was the first Ferro I was introduced to, but I love him and his story! He's the full package and his story is so real and heart felt. I mean, the man lives the poetry he speaks, who wouldn't love that? This series depicts his life before Damaged 1 and 2. He finds journals kept by Gina and gives them to Sidney to read and she finds all sorts of things out about his juicy and sorrowful past. Gina is sweet and very innocent. It will be interesting to see how Peter ends up effecting her life and how the impact of them and their story leads to his damaged life later on. For some reason I thought she'd be easy to dislike but I actually enjoy her thoughts quite a bit and will probably be really devastated when the end comes about. I can't wait to read more!
L-
Volume 2
Good Read! This one started out a little slow for me but at the same time it was kind of nice to get a peek into Gina's life. But a few chapters later and the ball starts rolling. The dancing...ah the dancing is just amazing. There's something about it, especially when it involves a soft wall that smells delicious (Peter.) I know that I'd let some handsy dude smash my face into that any day! Anyway, this is an exciting new series and I can't wait to read more about the life these two shared. Thanks for another great series HM Ward!
L-
Volume 3
My favorite one so far! Got to love Pete Ferro and he shows his face quite a bit in this one. The dancing is...wow. Yep, that good. I love the scene at the party between Gina and Mrs. Ferro, fantastic drama there. And when Pete shows...I could just melt at the words that fly out of that charming mouth of his. Great addition to the series and can't wait for the next!
L-
Volume 4
Love this one!
I think I say best one yet on every one of these....hmmm. Well I mean it...again! (Broken record, I know.) They just keep getting better. All the sexy Ferro flirting and teasing, the dancing...it's just amazingly sexy. And Mrs. Ferro comes into the picture more. I feel a twist coming up there, it seems those Ferro's are always up to something. I'm SO glad Gina is finally done with Anthony. It was so obvious that dude was screwing around. And the visual from that encounter...ah man I was dying laughing before Gina's sorrow kicked in. And there's no better way to get over a winner like that one than with Pete Ferro...on the dance floor. Whew! Can't wait for the next one!!!!
L-
Volume 5!!!!!
OH. MY. GOD.
Holly, you are amazing!
Absolutely brilliant plot twist! I only give five stars to books that are good enough to read again, and I would read this installment of Life Before Damaged again, and again, and again. I feel like we've been waiting for this huge falling out and it finally happened, it's so exciting!
Peter and his lack of self control got him on Gina's bad side in the end, but I suspect it's temporary. Come on, no one could ignore that man for long. He's in there Gina (or should I say Jenny...), you can bring him out!! I love how Gina's witty, confident side is finally showing itself. It's great getting to see her grow through these books and help Pete along the way. My favorite quote from her in this one was "Go cough up a furball." LOL!
Oh man, Anythony, see ya loser! I have to say her parents reaction to the whole Anthony situation was so typically expected, especially with how her dad has treated her in the past. No respect at all. He should embrace his daughters talents and brains instead of making her into a trophy wife for a complete loser. Oh well, he got his handed to him by Mrs. Ferro herself, HA! Love that women! Oh god, isn't she just perfect in her own screwed up way? And I'll leave you with a perfect last line from this amazing book: "Welcome to the family, dear." And it begins...!!
L-
Sunday, November 23, 2014
Saturday, November 1, 2014
The Arrangement: The Ferro Family
By: H.M. Ward
Overall Rating: Great Read
A little about this series:
This is a serial (series of short books) that's fan driven. So Holly will keep writing this story as long as people (like me) beg for it. I have to say I'd like it to end eventually, which I'm sure it undoubtedly will, but right now it's fun to get little installments of a story here and there to make life more exciting.
In this series you get introduced to the Ferro family but more specifically Sean Ferro. He's all kinds of messed up and so is pretty little Avery who's just trying to make ends meet and deal with her past as well. You get to follow them and their steamy story through a whole lot of ups and downs and holy crap did that just happens. It's exciting and fun to read and trust me, you'll start to crave the next installment.
*Update for AR 17!
To be released any day now...
Wow, just...wow! This was a great addition to the series. Of course we've all been bouncing around, hardly able to wait and see what happens after the whirlwind AR 16 left us in, and I can say that you won't be let down. Although this series is a little long, it's also kind of great for those of us with Sean/Ferro addictions. The story is spicing up more than ever and it'll be fun to see who wins this one. ;) Can't say more...he he
At first I thought it was all going play out as one would expect but I was wrong, and I'm so glad I was! Some ends are tied up and fresh worm cans are opened....it's fantastic!
It's so hard to leave a review without spoilers but seriously, it's a great read. Get it, feed your addiction, and then wait as impatiently as possible (along with me) for the next one. Enjoy!
L-
AR 18
Finally! Sean gets out of his whirlwind of fear and gives us what we've all been waiting for! This installment is exciting to say the least. Sean and Avery's relationship changes and new plot twists emerge as previous ones are tied up. This is the book that takes away all the frustration we've been feeling with Sean and will make you want to jump up and down and squeal ;) The end was a little shocking and I can hardly wait to see what happens there. Although Constance can be a huge pain, I kind of grew to like the witch herself in Life Before Damaged. It's nerve wracking waiting to see what happens.
L-
Overall Rating: Great Read
A little about this series:
This is a serial (series of short books) that's fan driven. So Holly will keep writing this story as long as people (like me) beg for it. I have to say I'd like it to end eventually, which I'm sure it undoubtedly will, but right now it's fun to get little installments of a story here and there to make life more exciting.
In this series you get introduced to the Ferro family but more specifically Sean Ferro. He's all kinds of messed up and so is pretty little Avery who's just trying to make ends meet and deal with her past as well. You get to follow them and their steamy story through a whole lot of ups and downs and holy crap did that just happens. It's exciting and fun to read and trust me, you'll start to crave the next installment.
*Update for AR 17!
To be released any day now...
Wow, just...wow! This was a great addition to the series. Of course we've all been bouncing around, hardly able to wait and see what happens after the whirlwind AR 16 left us in, and I can say that you won't be let down. Although this series is a little long, it's also kind of great for those of us with Sean/Ferro addictions. The story is spicing up more than ever and it'll be fun to see who wins this one. ;) Can't say more...he he
At first I thought it was all going play out as one would expect but I was wrong, and I'm so glad I was! Some ends are tied up and fresh worm cans are opened....it's fantastic!
It's so hard to leave a review without spoilers but seriously, it's a great read. Get it, feed your addiction, and then wait as impatiently as possible (along with me) for the next one. Enjoy!
L-
AR 18
Finally! Sean gets out of his whirlwind of fear and gives us what we've all been waiting for! This installment is exciting to say the least. Sean and Avery's relationship changes and new plot twists emerge as previous ones are tied up. This is the book that takes away all the frustration we've been feeling with Sean and will make you want to jump up and down and squeal ;) The end was a little shocking and I can hardly wait to see what happens there. Although Constance can be a huge pain, I kind of grew to like the witch herself in Life Before Damaged. It's nerve wracking waiting to see what happens.
L-
Thursday, July 17, 2014
Second Chances
by H.M. Ward and Stacey Mosteller
Rating: 5/5
Warning: You will need a box of tissues to read this book!
Oh, where to start...well Holly did it again! This novel is stand alone and different from her other stories. But don't worry, it's different in a good way! This book is very real, in fact, some people have probably experienced part, if not more of this story. Holly and Stacey really drive the ball home, hitting every emotional pit stop on the way. You'll laugh and cry...and really just FEEL. You'll feel everything, from being overjoyed to devastated and every other point on the emotional spectrum. These ladies did a good job with character development (as you always do Holly) and it's almost as if you're standing there, holding the main characters hand and can't help but feel for her...there's that word again! If only you could reach into this reality and hold on to her, believe me, you would.
This book never slows down. You won't find yourself being bored or impatient, it was written with perfection. The story of Genevieve, Cade, CJ and the lawn boy is, without a doub,t a winner! Going through a great loss is possibly the toughest struggle in life and Genevieve goes through more than a fair share of it. Her little CJ keeps her going, but even being a parent can sometimes have it's rough patches. Then the most unsuspecting person-because he's always been around-swoops into her life to change it again, in the best ways possible. Who wouldn't want a totally lickable lawn boy ;) As you read her story, Genevieve will take you through all the stages of grief, then pull out to find joy, grief again and then finally settling down in her battle with fate.
What a wonderful story of struggle, grief and great joy! You shared an fantastic story with us Holly and I'm glad Stacey was there to help develop it as well. You are both amazing and an inspiration!
L-
Rating: 5/5
Warning: You will need a box of tissues to read this book!
Oh, where to start...well Holly did it again! This novel is stand alone and different from her other stories. But don't worry, it's different in a good way! This book is very real, in fact, some people have probably experienced part, if not more of this story. Holly and Stacey really drive the ball home, hitting every emotional pit stop on the way. You'll laugh and cry...and really just FEEL. You'll feel everything, from being overjoyed to devastated and every other point on the emotional spectrum. These ladies did a good job with character development (as you always do Holly) and it's almost as if you're standing there, holding the main characters hand and can't help but feel for her...there's that word again! If only you could reach into this reality and hold on to her, believe me, you would.
This book never slows down. You won't find yourself being bored or impatient, it was written with perfection. The story of Genevieve, Cade, CJ and the lawn boy is, without a doub,t a winner! Going through a great loss is possibly the toughest struggle in life and Genevieve goes through more than a fair share of it. Her little CJ keeps her going, but even being a parent can sometimes have it's rough patches. Then the most unsuspecting person-because he's always been around-swoops into her life to change it again, in the best ways possible. Who wouldn't want a totally lickable lawn boy ;) As you read her story, Genevieve will take you through all the stages of grief, then pull out to find joy, grief again and then finally settling down in her battle with fate.
What a wonderful story of struggle, grief and great joy! You shared an fantastic story with us Holly and I'm glad Stacey was there to help develop it as well. You are both amazing and an inspiration!
L-
Wednesday, June 4, 2014
The Fault in Our Stars
by John Green
Rating: 5/5
Such a great read! John Green has a way of capturing the reader and making you feel like you're right there with the characters and experiencing everything with them. He also introduces different theories and concepts throughout his books, especially this one, that make you rethink the world around you.
This is a story about a girl named Hazel who has cancer, her journey, how she views the cancer and her life. She meets a boy named Augustus at support group who tells her how special she is. They go through what little life they have together and he makes her greatest wish come true. It doesn't turn out how they expect but only to find a deeper truth to the author she seeks out, one she can relate to. The characters are witty and have interesting views on life and death, making you consider your own. Throughout this story, as you witness their experiences, you'll laugh and cry and feel the depth of the characters importance to each other. I guarantee you will be moved and go back to read this book again and again.
Read it!
L-
Rating: 5/5
Such a great read! John Green has a way of capturing the reader and making you feel like you're right there with the characters and experiencing everything with them. He also introduces different theories and concepts throughout his books, especially this one, that make you rethink the world around you.
This is a story about a girl named Hazel who has cancer, her journey, how she views the cancer and her life. She meets a boy named Augustus at support group who tells her how special she is. They go through what little life they have together and he makes her greatest wish come true. It doesn't turn out how they expect but only to find a deeper truth to the author she seeks out, one she can relate to. The characters are witty and have interesting views on life and death, making you consider your own. Throughout this story, as you witness their experiences, you'll laugh and cry and feel the depth of the characters importance to each other. I guarantee you will be moved and go back to read this book again and again.
Read it!
L-
Monday, May 12, 2014
The Wedding Contract
Rating: 5/5
A complete, stand alone novel from H.M. Ward-not a serial!
Another tale involving a Ferro, who wouldn't want that? This book is a great read starring Nick Ferro and Sky. From beginning to end, Ward has you laughing hysterically. Sky is a little hot tempered and has a whole slew of defensive words that seem to come non-stop out of her mouth, but who can blame her when she has a Sith Lord for a mother and a Ferro trying to ruin her business? Sky is a wedding photographer and was doing great until Nick moved in next door and not only revved up the competition but literally tried to put her out of business. The two get stuck sharing a room at a wedding Sky is supposed to be shooting and then finds out that Nick was hired by the father-in-law. The two battle it out for a week and anything that can go wrong does. On the flip side, there's a very sweet and innocent side to Sky that gets brought out of her character occasionally, mostly in windows of weakness around Nick. And underneath that thick skin and quirky remarks, Nick has a tender side too...he is a Ferro after all.
I would definitely recommend this book to anyone with a sense of humor, It will have you laughing from the first page to the last and simply smiling with the joy of being a Ferroholic-speaking of which, if you aren't one already, you will be by the end of this book!
Happy Reading!
L-
Friday, January 31, 2014
Connected by the Sea
by E.L. Todd
Rating: 2/5
I was asked to review this book for the author.
I think there was good potential for this book, but I just couldn't get over some things. It's clear this author is new at writing and I congratulate the effort, but her writing still shows some immaturity.
First of all I found the narrative writing style odd for this type of book. The dialogue was short banter which made using this style of writing confusing at times. The author did a good job using narrative correctly, it just makes it harder for the reader to relate to the main character.
Most of the characters seemed their age, but a few didn't act like normal college students, more like high school. Audrey, for example, her actions were so childish and silly and Henry cried all the time seemingly to make Sydney feel bad.
The romance scenes could have flowed more, they were very literal and a step by step description which I found to take the romance out really.
Overall it was a very predictable story. There really wasn't any mystery or suspense about any characters or their actions. Everything was very straight forward and lacked the interest you would normally expect in a romance novel. It was a sweet story and not much more.
L-
Rating: 2/5
I was asked to review this book for the author.
I think there was good potential for this book, but I just couldn't get over some things. It's clear this author is new at writing and I congratulate the effort, but her writing still shows some immaturity.
First of all I found the narrative writing style odd for this type of book. The dialogue was short banter which made using this style of writing confusing at times. The author did a good job using narrative correctly, it just makes it harder for the reader to relate to the main character.
Most of the characters seemed their age, but a few didn't act like normal college students, more like high school. Audrey, for example, her actions were so childish and silly and Henry cried all the time seemingly to make Sydney feel bad.
The romance scenes could have flowed more, they were very literal and a step by step description which I found to take the romance out really.
Overall it was a very predictable story. There really wasn't any mystery or suspense about any characters or their actions. Everything was very straight forward and lacked the interest you would normally expect in a romance novel. It was a sweet story and not much more.
L-
Tuesday, October 22, 2013
Waiting for the Storm
by Marie Landry
Rating: 3/5
First of all, this isn't usually the type of book I would read however, I enjoyed it.
I loved how the title played a big role in the book and the symbolism was really great. This story shows a family dealing with grief, and each other, in many different ways. I was struck by how real it all felt while reading. The author put in enough details to make you feel what the main character was feeling and I could see this being a very relatable book to many people in many different ways. Even if this isn't a genre you would normally read, I think this one is worth branching out for.
The one thing I did have a hard time with was how slow everything was. Time skips by at certain points, but it's not that, more that there were times where not much was happening. At these times the main character was usually reflecting, but that got a little bit too repetitive for me. It is a good read though, so if you have a hard time everyone once in a while, just push through it, it's worth it.
L-
Rating: 3/5
First of all, this isn't usually the type of book I would read however, I enjoyed it.
I loved how the title played a big role in the book and the symbolism was really great. This story shows a family dealing with grief, and each other, in many different ways. I was struck by how real it all felt while reading. The author put in enough details to make you feel what the main character was feeling and I could see this being a very relatable book to many people in many different ways. Even if this isn't a genre you would normally read, I think this one is worth branching out for.
The one thing I did have a hard time with was how slow everything was. Time skips by at certain points, but it's not that, more that there were times where not much was happening. At these times the main character was usually reflecting, but that got a little bit too repetitive for me. It is a good read though, so if you have a hard time everyone once in a while, just push through it, it's worth it.
L-
Saturday, August 17, 2013
Gateway to Reality
by Becca J. Campbell
Rating: 3/5
Ms. Campbell had a great idea with this book. The thought of not knowing what ones reality actually is and what you decide to believe in the end is a compelling idea. However, this book was full of elementary writing. The ideas of this book were interesting, but poorly developed. The story seemed to jump around quite a bit and needed more focus. Also, the main character was an adult, but he seemed to melt down often like a child would and was very immature. I think the authors idea was to develop the characters through what you find out about their worlds, but the development wasn't enough. In short, this book was a good idea but poorly executed. I would be interested in future books from this author as I think her ideas are interesting, but not until she can develop her writing skills a little more.
L-
Rating: 3/5
Ms. Campbell had a great idea with this book. The thought of not knowing what ones reality actually is and what you decide to believe in the end is a compelling idea. However, this book was full of elementary writing. The ideas of this book were interesting, but poorly developed. The story seemed to jump around quite a bit and needed more focus. Also, the main character was an adult, but he seemed to melt down often like a child would and was very immature. I think the authors idea was to develop the characters through what you find out about their worlds, but the development wasn't enough. In short, this book was a good idea but poorly executed. I would be interested in future books from this author as I think her ideas are interesting, but not until she can develop her writing skills a little more.
L-
Wednesday, July 24, 2013
Damaged
by H.M. Ward
Rating: 4/5
Damaged 2 Rating: 5/5
I'm going to include Damaged 2 in this review because it's all really just one big story and I don't think it should have been separated into two books. I wasn't sure if I'd enjoy this book or not, but it was really easy to like. The characters are well defined and funny, which makes it that much easier to get caught up into their story. The dialogue is wonderfully realistic and really shows the main characters personality.
I hate to say this is Sidney's story because I think Peter equally shined, but she is the main character and the story is told through her point of view. These books go into their struggles and harsh realities that have all but torn every bit of happiness from them. Sidney and Peter find each other and start a relationship that isn't allowed by the university and in time learn to help each other in ways that allow them to start living again. The second book is more comical and at times had me laughing pretty hard. The sexual tension is mucho grande and may nearly drive you mad, fair warning. Oh, and one of my favorite parts is when they find "Mr. Turkey" and Peter ties him up with a pink bra so he doesn't peck his eyes out. The cross dressing bird is hilarious. I know that doesn't sound like it has anything to do with the story, but it does and it'll make you laugh to boot.
L-
Rating: 4/5
Damaged 2 Rating: 5/5
I'm going to include Damaged 2 in this review because it's all really just one big story and I don't think it should have been separated into two books. I wasn't sure if I'd enjoy this book or not, but it was really easy to like. The characters are well defined and funny, which makes it that much easier to get caught up into their story. The dialogue is wonderfully realistic and really shows the main characters personality.
I hate to say this is Sidney's story because I think Peter equally shined, but she is the main character and the story is told through her point of view. These books go into their struggles and harsh realities that have all but torn every bit of happiness from them. Sidney and Peter find each other and start a relationship that isn't allowed by the university and in time learn to help each other in ways that allow them to start living again. The second book is more comical and at times had me laughing pretty hard. The sexual tension is mucho grande and may nearly drive you mad, fair warning. Oh, and one of my favorite parts is when they find "Mr. Turkey" and Peter ties him up with a pink bra so he doesn't peck his eyes out. The cross dressing bird is hilarious. I know that doesn't sound like it has anything to do with the story, but it does and it'll make you laugh to boot.
L-
Thursday, July 18, 2013
A Second Chance
by Sara Furlong Burr
Rating: 5/5
I absolutely loved this!
In this short story, Ms. Burr doesn't waste any time putting the reader right in the middle of everything. She makes you feel the characters loss and sorrow over her child, delve into her depression, and later have a flicker of hope and joy. At first I was irritated because I wanted to read more and find out how the little boy had found them, but a while later, I realized that the story needed to end where it did. It leaves you in a place of questioning, but deep down the reader knows what happened next and how the little boy no doubt completed their family. I also think the blanket is how he had decided who his family was. Other thoughts also come into play though. Was his soul reincarnated? Or is this boy simply determined to be loved by the family of his own choosing? Either way, this is an inspirational read. Definitely a good one!
L-
Rating: 5/5
I absolutely loved this!
In this short story, Ms. Burr doesn't waste any time putting the reader right in the middle of everything. She makes you feel the characters loss and sorrow over her child, delve into her depression, and later have a flicker of hope and joy. At first I was irritated because I wanted to read more and find out how the little boy had found them, but a while later, I realized that the story needed to end where it did. It leaves you in a place of questioning, but deep down the reader knows what happened next and how the little boy no doubt completed their family. I also think the blanket is how he had decided who his family was. Other thoughts also come into play though. Was his soul reincarnated? Or is this boy simply determined to be loved by the family of his own choosing? Either way, this is an inspirational read. Definitely a good one!
L-
Heart of the Billionaire
by J.S. Scott
Rating: 4/5 for romance, 3/5 for other genre comparisons
This is a good addition to the billionaire series, especially since you're left hanging at the end of it wondering what will happen with Sam and Maddie. It was a good read that definitely made you feel for Sam, if you can imagine such a thing. This book digs into the two characters dark pasts as you follow them through the rebuilding of their damaged relationship. I suppose you could consider this a stand alone book, but it would make more sense and get you'd more into the characters if you read the whole series. Lots of sex, proceed with caution.
L-
Rating: 4/5 for romance, 3/5 for other genre comparisons
This is a good addition to the billionaire series, especially since you're left hanging at the end of it wondering what will happen with Sam and Maddie. It was a good read that definitely made you feel for Sam, if you can imagine such a thing. This book digs into the two characters dark pasts as you follow them through the rebuilding of their damaged relationship. I suppose you could consider this a stand alone book, but it would make more sense and get you'd more into the characters if you read the whole series. Lots of sex, proceed with caution.
L-
Mine for Tonight
by J.S. Scott
Rating: 4/5 for romance, 2/5 for other genre comparisons
This is my review for the whole series.
Warning: If you are a romance/erotica genre virgin, this isn't the best book for you to start with.
Okay, first of all, I think romance novels should be rated on a separate scale from other genres. They're just so different and really don't compare to other books. With that said I gave it four stars on my own personal romance/erotica (aka book porn, as my husband puts it) scale.
As far as a storyline, there's one there, but the books are mostly focused on...other things. xoxo The later stories in the series bring about more background information on all the characters. They're short and very erotic, so if you don't like that, this is my official warning to you.
L-
Rating: 4/5 for romance, 2/5 for other genre comparisons
This is my review for the whole series.
Warning: If you are a romance/erotica genre virgin, this isn't the best book for you to start with.
Okay, first of all, I think romance novels should be rated on a separate scale from other genres. They're just so different and really don't compare to other books. With that said I gave it four stars on my own personal romance/erotica (aka book porn, as my husband puts it) scale.
As far as a storyline, there's one there, but the books are mostly focused on...other things. xoxo The later stories in the series bring about more background information on all the characters. They're short and very erotic, so if you don't like that, this is my official warning to you.
L-
Friday, July 12, 2013
Enigma Black
by Sara Furlong Burr
Rating: 4/5
This was an excellent book. It tells the story of a girl who lost everything in the devastation occurring in our country. Ten years later she leaves what she's managed to gain back in life to seek vengeance for her family. This story had me captivated from the prologue and kept my interest throughout. Ms. Burr wrote this book at a fast moving pace and tied in politics and aspects of society seamlessly, keeping everything packed with either action or heart wrenching scenes that will make you feel everything the characters do.
The reason I gave it four stars and not five is because there were times when the whole super-human thing became incredibly corny. Especially during the fight scenes, which could have been much better than they were. However, it's clear the author did her research when it came to how these humans are transformed and managed to pull off the realism. This is a good book, read it.
L-
Rating: 4/5
This was an excellent book. It tells the story of a girl who lost everything in the devastation occurring in our country. Ten years later she leaves what she's managed to gain back in life to seek vengeance for her family. This story had me captivated from the prologue and kept my interest throughout. Ms. Burr wrote this book at a fast moving pace and tied in politics and aspects of society seamlessly, keeping everything packed with either action or heart wrenching scenes that will make you feel everything the characters do.
The reason I gave it four stars and not five is because there were times when the whole super-human thing became incredibly corny. Especially during the fight scenes, which could have been much better than they were. However, it's clear the author did her research when it came to how these humans are transformed and managed to pull off the realism. This is a good book, read it.
L-
Sunday, July 7, 2013
Awaken
by Meg Cabot
Rating: 2/5
This is the third book in Meg Cabot's Awaken series. I was actually hoping this book would be as good as the second, but it was really disappointing. It moved so slow, I thought I'd never make it through! Ms. Cabot wasted time to be frank. I think the first three chapters were all at the dock and the writing almost seemed to be in slow motion. Not much happened in this book and of course it had the expected happily ever after ending so I'd say it's not really worth anyones time to read. At least it was short.
Pierce seemed to regress in this one and was bordering on stupid, except on a rare occastion she was able to jump to some absurd conclusion that had no logic leading up to it whatsoever. In short this book is predictable and unsatisfactory.
L-
Rating: 2/5
This is the third book in Meg Cabot's Awaken series. I was actually hoping this book would be as good as the second, but it was really disappointing. It moved so slow, I thought I'd never make it through! Ms. Cabot wasted time to be frank. I think the first three chapters were all at the dock and the writing almost seemed to be in slow motion. Not much happened in this book and of course it had the expected happily ever after ending so I'd say it's not really worth anyones time to read. At least it was short.
Pierce seemed to regress in this one and was bordering on stupid, except on a rare occastion she was able to jump to some absurd conclusion that had no logic leading up to it whatsoever. In short this book is predictable and unsatisfactory.
L-
Monday, July 1, 2013
Thirty Seconds to Die
by S.G. Holster
Rating: 1/5
So, this book gets a definite thumbs down! This was by far the worst book I've come across in many years. If not for this challenge I would never have read past the first couple chapters. This is a self published book and it's obvious why. No publisher would ever have accepted it. The writing in the book is extremely amateurish and much of the story is a Twilight ripoff, right down to coming very close to plagiarizing lines.
The concept of a story of two reincarnated souls that were in love in a past life finding each other again would make a great, sweet romance, but unfortunately the author has to throw in this whole story line about another group of super powered beings that are out to kill the souls. Why? That's never really explained. Most of it is never explained and what is doesn't make sense. It doesn't seem like the author really thought it all through.
The story drags on and on with many detailed scenes that do nothing to move the story along. The main character Lexi seems to whine about everything and cries every five minutes. Of course the the male main character, Ren, is impossibly good looking and extremely rich and all around "perfect".
I am very glad I only payed a couple bucks for this book on my kindle and I'll be deleting it off there as I will never be reading it again! (and I'm a believer that any book worth reading, is worth reading again!)
-K
*****
You get the idea. No more comment necessary.
I could probably continue but I’m tired of typing and I’ve already wasted enough of my life on this book. Read at your own risk and if you’re a Twilight fan, be warned, you’ll probably just get pissed off.
Rating: 1/5
So, this book gets a definite thumbs down! This was by far the worst book I've come across in many years. If not for this challenge I would never have read past the first couple chapters. This is a self published book and it's obvious why. No publisher would ever have accepted it. The writing in the book is extremely amateurish and much of the story is a Twilight ripoff, right down to coming very close to plagiarizing lines.
The concept of a story of two reincarnated souls that were in love in a past life finding each other again would make a great, sweet romance, but unfortunately the author has to throw in this whole story line about another group of super powered beings that are out to kill the souls. Why? That's never really explained. Most of it is never explained and what is doesn't make sense. It doesn't seem like the author really thought it all through.
The story drags on and on with many detailed scenes that do nothing to move the story along. The main character Lexi seems to whine about everything and cries every five minutes. Of course the the male main character, Ren, is impossibly good looking and extremely rich and all around "perfect".
I am very glad I only payed a couple bucks for this book on my kindle and I'll be deleting it off there as I will never be reading it again! (and I'm a believer that any book worth reading, is worth reading again!)
-K
*****
Rating: 2/5
Warning: Spoilers-I just can’t help myself!
Let me start by saying the only reason I gave this book a rating of 2 and not 1 is because I liked the idea of the myth it was based off of, and because of that it had potential. That potential just plunged deeper into this books sad abyss the further into it I got. I’m not sure what was going on in the authors head but she clearly has no original ideas for her writing. I know to some extent no idea is truly original, but she could at least try to be a little creative.
Let me tell you what I mean; Picture in your head a combination of the Twilight and Hush, Hush series…got it? Good! Now strip away most of the characters, vamps, wolves and angels. Add Inuit myth of reincarnated souls and voila, there you have it! Some of the scenes were almost exactly what they were in Twilight and it was almost unbearable to read. Not to mention the Sentori attack the Ren and Lexi constantly like the Nephilim do in Hush, Hush. You know, the fight of good vs. evil except no angels.
Let me tell you what I mean; Picture in your head a combination of the Twilight and Hush, Hush series…got it? Good! Now strip away most of the characters, vamps, wolves and angels. Add Inuit myth of reincarnated souls and voila, there you have it! Some of the scenes were almost exactly what they were in Twilight and it was almost unbearable to read. Not to mention the Sentori attack the Ren and Lexi constantly like the Nephilim do in Hush, Hush. You know, the fight of good vs. evil except no angels.
Here are some examples:
- Strange boy in school staring at Lexi, and of course he’s madly in love with her and is always concerned about her well-being down to every little scratch. He even adds art class at school so he can be with her more.
- Lexi seems to always be blushing uncontrollably, literally throughout the whole book.
- She hurt her hand with a welding torch, and guess who escorted her to the nurse? That’s right Edward, oh sorry I mean Ren.
- You may be wondering if there’s a Jacob to complete the love triangle, well you’re in luck! There’s Brett, who Lexi used to be with in her souls past life, but she really loves Ren. *Wink, Wink*
- Remember that heart wrenching scene in New Moon when Edward tells Bella he’s leaving and leaves her in the forest? Wel,l Ren tells Lexi he’s leaving her at the beach and the puts her in his aunts car. Of course he wasn’t saying goodbye forever but you get the general idea here.
- After moping around until graduation, Lexi goes to London to be with Ren and you’d never guess what’s in his garage. That’s right a row of very classy and expensive cars. Sound familiar?
- This one is so incredibly close to Twilight it actually made me angry when I read it. There’s not a good enough way to explain it so I’ll just quote the excerpt instead.
Quote: “I turned my head to the side. My heartbeat raced at the sight of Ren, whose beautiful face was resting on his arm next to me. The beeping sound became fast and annoying. Ren looked like an angel, my angel. I was still trying to figure out if I were dead or alive. I reached out to touch him, dragging along with me tubes and cords that I fought against to reach farther. Finally, I made it to his face. I brushed my fingers across his cheek, even though I was afraid he’d disappear if I woke him.
My touch and the accelerated beeping seemed to catch his attention. I watched as his long eyelashes fluttered before revealing his liquid brown eyes. He backed away to look at me, and the smile that always made me feel as though I needed to catch my breath spread across his face. He traced his fingers down my cheek and across my lips.
“You’re awake,” he whispered, touching his lips to my forehead. I could see tears form in his eyes when he looked at me.
“I’m so sorry.” My voice was only a whisper, and my throat felt very dry. I wasn’t sure why I said it, but the sad look in his eyes made me feel responsible for the pain. Immediately his look was confused, and he held my hand in his.
“You don’t have anything to be sorry for.” He shook his head slightly.
His voice took me back to the sounds of the fighting.
“What happened? How’d you find me?” Anxiety from the memory rose up from the pit of my stomach.
Ren pushed a button on the side of the bed, and a nurse opened the door and came rushing in.
Blah, blah, blah….
”I’ll never let this happen again. This was my fault.”
“Stop!” I insisted, putting my fingers to his lips.”
You get the idea. No more comment necessary.
After that he of course sweeps her off to a tiny island off the coast of France that Ren’s family owns half of. Sound a bit like Isle Esme? Just a bit.
One last thing to add, this author relentlessly repeats herself with dialogue. In fact the dialogue is just bad. No one talks that way and if they did I think I would never be able to stop laughing when someone spoke.I could probably continue but I’m tired of typing and I’ve already wasted enough of my life on this book. Read at your own risk and if you’re a Twilight fan, be warned, you’ll probably just get pissed off.
L-
This book is part of our 50 states reading challenge.
State: Alaska
*This book isn't really set in Alaska but the myth comes from the Inuit's in Alaska, so we're counting it. I think the second one will have more of a setting there.
This book is part of our 50 states reading challenge.
State: Alaska
*This book isn't really set in Alaska but the myth comes from the Inuit's in Alaska, so we're counting it. I think the second one will have more of a setting there.
Wednesday, June 26, 2013
Looking for Alaska
by John Green
Rating: 4/5
I really enjoyed this book. It's not one I would typically pick up but I'm glad I did. At first, the beginning reminded me of The Perks of Being a Wallflower and I was worried as I didn't think I could stand another book about a whiny teenage boy. After about the first 25 pages however, I was pleasantly surprised.
While following Miles to a boarding school he attended in search of his "Great Perhaps" I found myself laughing with the characters and really starting to like them. It felt like a real group of kids with real troubles and not just a dramatic story. Throughout the story you follow Pudge (Miles) and his group of friends through their story of friendship, love, loss, laughter and their clever school pranks that are guaranteed to crack you up.
More than just their story, the author manages to slip in different religious theories about life and the afterlife. These theories end up meaning a lot to the characters of this story as they try and discover for themselves what it all means for them and their life experiences.
In short, it's good. Just read it.
L-
*****
Rating: 4/5
This is our first book in our 50 state challenge and it was a really great read. We picked this book because there were slim pickings for Alabama available on the Kindle (our preferred reading platform) and it had decent reviews. I wasn't sure about it at first, but was quickly drawn into the story. The author does a great job making you really care about the main character, Miles, a shy, socially awkward teenager who decides to start over by leaving home for boarding school. The pacing of the story is perfect. It is funny and poignant and believable. I'm sure I'll be reading it again in the future.
Warning-Although this is a teen book, it is not a sweet innocent book. There is lots of drinking, some drugs, cigarettes and sex. So if your squeamish about those things, this may not be a book for you.
-K
This book is part of our 50 states reading challenge.
State: Alabama
Rating: 4/5
I really enjoyed this book. It's not one I would typically pick up but I'm glad I did. At first, the beginning reminded me of The Perks of Being a Wallflower and I was worried as I didn't think I could stand another book about a whiny teenage boy. After about the first 25 pages however, I was pleasantly surprised.
While following Miles to a boarding school he attended in search of his "Great Perhaps" I found myself laughing with the characters and really starting to like them. It felt like a real group of kids with real troubles and not just a dramatic story. Throughout the story you follow Pudge (Miles) and his group of friends through their story of friendship, love, loss, laughter and their clever school pranks that are guaranteed to crack you up.
More than just their story, the author manages to slip in different religious theories about life and the afterlife. These theories end up meaning a lot to the characters of this story as they try and discover for themselves what it all means for them and their life experiences.
In short, it's good. Just read it.
L-
*****
Rating: 4/5
This is our first book in our 50 state challenge and it was a really great read. We picked this book because there were slim pickings for Alabama available on the Kindle (our preferred reading platform) and it had decent reviews. I wasn't sure about it at first, but was quickly drawn into the story. The author does a great job making you really care about the main character, Miles, a shy, socially awkward teenager who decides to start over by leaving home for boarding school. The pacing of the story is perfect. It is funny and poignant and believable. I'm sure I'll be reading it again in the future.
Warning-Although this is a teen book, it is not a sweet innocent book. There is lots of drinking, some drugs, cigarettes and sex. So if your squeamish about those things, this may not be a book for you.
-K
This book is part of our 50 states reading challenge.
State: Alabama
Always Wanted
by Sarah Tork
Rating: 4/5
Oh man I'm still laughing! Hard to gather my thoughts....okay, I'm good!
So at first this book reminded me a lot of Sarah's book Young Annabelle. Mostly with the crappy mother and family issues. I also felt like the main character was a little immature at first, but once she was away from her family that seemed to change. As it went on however I found it to get more intriguing. Then it started to feel like any other romance novel, but it never progressed in the 'typical' way one might expect it to. And then the good stuff came...ha! I'm still dying and can't get over the shock of Xander asking for her panties!! It almost seemed like the story would take a weird, almost criminal turn there, then of course it didn't. I loved how they ended up at an exclusive club and everything was very realistic as far as the story was concerned.
I don't even know what else to say. I enjoyed it, it made me laugh so many times! After Xander acting so weird and then normal when drunk and then treating Marisa like some kind of princess which confused her because she's not used to any such treatment...what is there to say? It's a fun filled story and I'm excited to see what happens with Xander and Marisa's relationship in the next part of the story. Especially since it wasn't a "love at first sight" thing. Aside from his dashing good looks, their personalities didn't seem very compatible which made everything more interesting.
Oh and the inner dialogue is fantastic! At one point Marisa said she "felt like a nun in heat" so great. Once you get invested in the characters there's definitely some humor in there. Whether it was intended or not...well who cares.
L-
Rating: 4/5
Oh man I'm still laughing! Hard to gather my thoughts....okay, I'm good!
So at first this book reminded me a lot of Sarah's book Young Annabelle. Mostly with the crappy mother and family issues. I also felt like the main character was a little immature at first, but once she was away from her family that seemed to change. As it went on however I found it to get more intriguing. Then it started to feel like any other romance novel, but it never progressed in the 'typical' way one might expect it to. And then the good stuff came...ha! I'm still dying and can't get over the shock of Xander asking for her panties!! It almost seemed like the story would take a weird, almost criminal turn there, then of course it didn't. I loved how they ended up at an exclusive club and everything was very realistic as far as the story was concerned.
I don't even know what else to say. I enjoyed it, it made me laugh so many times! After Xander acting so weird and then normal when drunk and then treating Marisa like some kind of princess which confused her because she's not used to any such treatment...what is there to say? It's a fun filled story and I'm excited to see what happens with Xander and Marisa's relationship in the next part of the story. Especially since it wasn't a "love at first sight" thing. Aside from his dashing good looks, their personalities didn't seem very compatible which made everything more interesting.
Oh and the inner dialogue is fantastic! At one point Marisa said she "felt like a nun in heat" so great. Once you get invested in the characters there's definitely some humor in there. Whether it was intended or not...well who cares.
L-
A Castle of Sand
by Bella Forrest
Rating: 3/5
Hmm, well I thought maybe the series would get better as it went along but this one dropped slightly for me. Definitely a filler novel and very predictable. I also noticed more fairy tale links in this book. I know in the last one they talk about how Sofia resembles Rose Red or whatever but in this one it seemed like Ms. Forrest was inspired by Beauty and the Beast. She talks a lot about 'choosing the beast over prince charming' and little things here and there of the like.
Picture this and you've pretty much read the book:
Ben is Gaston
Derek the Beast (Prince in disguise)
Sofia the undeniable Beauty (Belle)
Beauty leaves sometimes charming boy to be with the beast who becomes soft hearted whenever she's with him and "changes" him for the best. Whatever that is. Boy pines and tries to win her back and Beauty wins over everyone with her passion for human life. Oh, and of course it wouldn't be right if the Beauty didn't need constant saving, which she inevitably does, but don't worry because her prince is always there just in the knick of time.
Story summed.
L-
Rating: 3/5
Hmm, well I thought maybe the series would get better as it went along but this one dropped slightly for me. Definitely a filler novel and very predictable. I also noticed more fairy tale links in this book. I know in the last one they talk about how Sofia resembles Rose Red or whatever but in this one it seemed like Ms. Forrest was inspired by Beauty and the Beast. She talks a lot about 'choosing the beast over prince charming' and little things here and there of the like.
Picture this and you've pretty much read the book:
Ben is Gaston
Derek the Beast (Prince in disguise)
Sofia the undeniable Beauty (Belle)
Beauty leaves sometimes charming boy to be with the beast who becomes soft hearted whenever she's with him and "changes" him for the best. Whatever that is. Boy pines and tries to win her back and Beauty wins over everyone with her passion for human life. Oh, and of course it wouldn't be right if the Beauty didn't need constant saving, which she inevitably does, but don't worry because her prince is always there just in the knick of time.
Story summed.
L-
A Shade of Blood
by Bella Forrest
Rating: 3.5/5
This one was okay but I didn't enjoy it as much as the first. I think once again, if only we could give half stars, I'd rate it a 3.5. I like hearing the story from different points of view and I think how Ms. Forrest wrote this series is interesting, but it was a little too much for me in this book. To switch who's view you're reading from in the first book was actually kind of nice but in this one it was just too much jumping around. I think I would have liked it better if there were say 3-4 chapters in one person's account before switching to another with some exceptions of course.
As for the story line, it was predictable but still a nice read. Short and still captivating. One thing drove me nuts and that's how the author always likes to use first and last names. This is the second book, I think we know by now that Derek's last name is Novak and Sofia's is Claremont. I understand the need to use both at certain times but it was unnecessarily overused so that definitely got old.
Looking forward to the third novel and I hope it has less chaotic jumping around.
L-
Rating: 3.5/5
This one was okay but I didn't enjoy it as much as the first. I think once again, if only we could give half stars, I'd rate it a 3.5. I like hearing the story from different points of view and I think how Ms. Forrest wrote this series is interesting, but it was a little too much for me in this book. To switch who's view you're reading from in the first book was actually kind of nice but in this one it was just too much jumping around. I think I would have liked it better if there were say 3-4 chapters in one person's account before switching to another with some exceptions of course.
As for the story line, it was predictable but still a nice read. Short and still captivating. One thing drove me nuts and that's how the author always likes to use first and last names. This is the second book, I think we know by now that Derek's last name is Novak and Sofia's is Claremont. I understand the need to use both at certain times but it was unnecessarily overused so that definitely got old.
Looking forward to the third novel and I hope it has less chaotic jumping around.
L-
A Shade of Vampire
by Bella Forrest
Rating: 3.5/5
So this book was interesting and fast paced but kind of short. I would have liked more descriptions along the way and maybe more character development. Definitely could have used more "vampirism" type things, but I really loved how the author switched back and forth with who told the story. If it was all written from one perspective I don't think I would have liked it as much, so that was a good way to keep it exciting and not let it drag. Overall it was pretty good so I'll read the next.
L-
This book is part of our 50 states reading challenge.
State: California
Rating: 3.5/5
So this book was interesting and fast paced but kind of short. I would have liked more descriptions along the way and maybe more character development. Definitely could have used more "vampirism" type things, but I really loved how the author switched back and forth with who told the story. If it was all written from one perspective I don't think I would have liked it as much, so that was a good way to keep it exciting and not let it drag. Overall it was pretty good so I'll read the next.
L-
This book is part of our 50 states reading challenge.
State: California
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