tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-74328803695378538632024-03-05T04:05:30.367-08:00Daydreaming Through BooksUnknownnoreply@blogger.comBlogger607125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7432880369537853863.post-46583949976347108012019-07-12T07:00:00.000-07:002019-07-12T07:00:06.593-07:00Book Review: Prince Charming by Rachel Hawkins<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;"><img alt="43355180" height="200" src="https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1546558519i/43355180.jpg" width="133" /></span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">Series: Royals Book #1</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">Format: Paperback</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">Pages: 320</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">How I Got It: Purchased</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">Genre: Young Adult, Contemporay</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">Publisher: Penguin </span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Synopsis courtesy of Goodreads</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Meet Daisy Winters. She's an offbeat sixteen-year-old Floridian with mermaid-red hair, a part time job at a bootleg Walmart, and a perfect older sister who's nearly engaged to the Crown Prince of Scotland. Daisy has no desire to live in the spotlight, but relentless tabloid attention forces her join Ellie at the relative seclusion of the castle across the pond.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
While the dashing young Miles has been appointed to teach Daisy the ropes of being regal, the prince's roguish younger brother kicks up scandal wherever he goes, and tries his best to take Daisy along for the ride. The crown--and the intriguing Miles--might be trying to make Daisy into a lady . . . but Daisy may just rewrite the royal rulebook to suit herself.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Review</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
This was a cute YA contemporary. I read it in just a couple of hours and enjoyed my time with the characters. The romance was cute, but not as developed as I would've liked. Actually, I felt that way about a lot of the story. I wanted more development with many of the characters and story lines. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
It felt kind of like a Disney movie-if drinking was kosher on the Disney channel. It was a very one level story. Like I would've like to know more about the sister's relationship. I would be ok with less romance if that relationship had been more deeply explored.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
The friendships were really cute and pretty healthy. There is a group of guy friends that seems a little toxic, but is actually pretty good which I like. And Daisy's parents were funny. It's nice to have a YA book with parents who are actually in their kids' lives.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Overall, this was a good story. Maybe it is more of a 3.5 star read. I definitely want to pick up the next story. And I hope more of the side characters get books because I'm interested in them.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Thanks for reading!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Holly</div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7432880369537853863.post-11068227873240378932019-07-10T07:00:00.000-07:002019-07-10T07:00:03.551-07:00Book Review: The Duke is But a Dream by Anna Bennett<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;"><img alt="41150399" height="320" src="https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1541759712i/41150399.jpg" width="195" /></span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">Series: Debutante Diaries Book #2</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">Format: ebook</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">Rating: ⭐⭐⭐</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">How I Got It: NetGalley</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">Genre: Historical Romance</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">Publisher: St. Martin's Paperback</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Synopsis courtesy of Goodreads</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Miss Lily Hartley is the anonymous mastermind behind the ton’s latest obsession: The Debutante’s Revenge, a titillating advice column for ladies on the marriage mart. To keep her identity secret, Lily delivers her columns disguised as a chimney sweep—which is all well and good, until she unwittingly lands in the middle of an ugly tavern brawl. Fortunately, the devastatingly handsome Duke of Stonebridge sweeps in to rescue her.Unfortunately, Lily’s dressed as a boy—and holding rather incriminating evidence linking her to the scandalous column. Drat.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
When Eric Nash, Duke of Stonebridge, sees a helpless lad receive a nasty blow to the head, he’s outraged. But when he discovers there’s a beautiful woman hiding beneath the chimney sweep’s cap, he’s positively stunned. Nash would happily escort her home, but she’s forgotten her name—leaving him little choice but to take her in himself until he can locate her family. But the closer he gets to finding them, the more he doesn’t want to let her go.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Lily’s trying to figure out exactly who she is…in more ways than one. With so much at stake—her column, her reputation, and even her heart—she needs a plan, and she needs it fast. Before Nash finds her family. Before he learns who she is. Before they fall totally, completely, and utterly inconveniently in love.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Review</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
***I received this book via NetGalley from the publisher in exchange for an honest review***</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
This was a cute story. I feel like I say that a lot, but it's how I feel. The characters were nice and the romance was fairly well-paced. It's also an amnesia story line which I've only read once before. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Lily was a likable character and I really liked her writing. Nash was a little brooding, but not annoyingly so. I'm not a huge fan of overprotective big brothers, but he grew a little and you can tell it comes from a place of love. I would've liked a little more development in the romance, but it wasn't too much of an issue. I would have liked some more development in some of the side story lines as well as the friendships.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
It was a fast and enjoyable read, but nothing special. It was a little forgettable, but I would read other books in the series because I like the characters.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Thanks for reading!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Holly</div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7432880369537853863.post-43847339397505066072019-07-08T07:00:00.000-07:002019-07-08T07:00:00.864-07:00Book Review: The 5 AM Club by Robin Sharma<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;"><img alt="40535259. sx318 " height="320" src="https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1539937225i/40535259._SX318_.jpg" width="320" /></span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">Stand Alone</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">Format: Audio Book</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">Rating: ⭐⭐⭐</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">How I Got It: Library</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">Genre: Non-Fiction, Self-Help,</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">Publisher: Harper Collins</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Synopsis courtesy of Goodreads</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Legendary leadership and elite performance expert Robin Sharma introduced The 5am Club concept over twenty years ago, based on a revolutionary morning routine that has helped his clients maximize their productivity, activate their best health and bulletproof their serenity in this age of overwhelming complexity.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Now, in this life-changing book, handcrafted by the author over a rigorous four-year period, you will discover the early-rising habit that has helped so many accomplish epic results while upgrading their happiness, helpfulness and feelings of aliveness.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Through an enchanting—and often amusing—story about two struggling strangers who meet an eccentric tycoon who becomes their secret mentor, The 5am Club will walk you through:</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
How great geniuses, business titans and the world’s wisest people start their mornings to produce astonishing achievements</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
A little-known formula you can use instantly to wake up early feeling inspired, focused and flooded with a fiery drive to get the most out of each day</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
A step-by-step method to protect the quietest hours of daybreak so you have time for exercise, self-renewal and personal growth</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
A neuroscience-based practice proven to help make it easy to rise while most people are sleeping, giving you precious time for yourself to think, express your creativity and begin the day peacefully instead of being rushed</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
“Insider-only” tactics to defend your gifts, talents and dreams against digital distraction and trivial diversions so you enjoy fortune, influence and a magnificent impact on the world</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Part manifesto for mastery, part playbook for genius-grade productivity and part companion for a life lived beautifully, The 5am Club is a work that will transform your life. Forever. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Review</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I requested this from the library after the woman I follow for weight loss talked about it. She did say it isn't liked by everyone. Now, that I've read/listened to it, I understand why.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
The concepts are interesting and have some potential to be life changing. But I would've appreciated more science or explanation of those things. I think, writing this as more of a narrative is what people find to be off-putting. I appreciate that it is a different take on a self-help/self-development book. But it was kind of weird. Like there was a romance which was random. If it was a case study written as a narrative, I could get behind it. The story was like half story and half self-help but kind of failed at both.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Thanks for reading!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Holly</div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7432880369537853863.post-38103777589408385172019-07-06T07:04:00.000-07:002019-07-06T07:04:44.770-07:00June Wrap-Up (2019)<div style="text-align: center;">
June was a crazy month. I knew it was going to be. Although it was a tad bit more crazy than I expected. Not in a good way, but I'm trying not to dwell on that.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I did have my dance recital which went well. If I can find away to insert the footage, I will. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
And I read way more than I thought was possible. I definitely think audio books help with that. I also finally signed up for Audible. I also got the romance package. Now, I just have to stop myself from listening to all the books. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Here are the books I read and their ratings:</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Court of Fives-3 Stars</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="27415442" height="200" src="https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1467577692i/27415442.jpg" width="133" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Graceling-5 Stars</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="3236307" height="200" src="https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1331548394i/3236307.jpg" width="132" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Guarding the Amish Midwife-3 Stars</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="43076929. sy475 " height="200" src="https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1550807857i/43076929._SY475_.jpg" width="126" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
The Raging Ones-5 Stars</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="30301147. sy475 " height="200" src="https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1532351186i/30301147._SY475_.jpg" width="129" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Warrior of the Wild-5 Stars</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="43446574. sy475 " height="200" src="https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1546468075i/43446574._SY475_.jpg" width="132" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Exclusively Yours-4 Stars</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="11792747" height="200" src="https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1388282004i/11792747.jpg" width="125" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
The 5 AM Club-3 Stars</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="40535259. sx318 " height="200" src="https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1539937225i/40535259._SX318_.jpg" width="200" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
The First Conspiracy-4 Stars</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="42780948. sx318 " height="200" src="https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1551893631i/42780948._SX318_.jpg" width="200" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Prince Charming-4 Stars</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="43355180" height="200" src="https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1546558519i/43355180.jpg" width="133" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Silver Shadows-5 Stars</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="25242332. sx318 " height="200" src="https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1436975570i/25242332._SX318_.jpg" width="200" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
The Duke is But a Dream-3 Stars</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="41150399" height="200" src="https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1541759712i/41150399.jpg" width="122" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Him-4 Stars</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="26137513" height="200" src="https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1440120525i/26137513.jpg" width="127" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
The Night Circus-4 Stars</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="13330943" height="200" src="https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1339610624i/13330943.jpg" width="129" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
The Ruby Circle-4 Stars</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="25092367" height="200" src="https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1459062239i/25092367.jpg" width="200" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Us-4 Stars</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="29475332. sy475 " height="200" src="https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1457596574i/29475332._SY475_.jpg" width="131" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Addicted for Now-5 Stars</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="24620386" src="https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1421848943i/24620386.jpg" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Good Boy-4 Stars</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="30747137. sy475 " height="200" src="https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1479129389i/30747137._SY475_.jpg" width="133" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Let's Get Textual-4 Stars</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="36197404. sy475 " height="200" src="https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1504798567i/36197404._SY475_.jpg" width="128" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Thanks for reading!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Holly</div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7432880369537853863.post-21167815085967138672019-07-03T07:00:00.000-07:002019-07-03T07:00:18.979-07:00Book Review: Warrior of the Wild by Tricia Levenseller<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;"><img alt="43446574. sy475 " height="320" src="https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1546468075i/43446574._SY475_.jpg" width="212" /></span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">Stand Alone</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">Format: Hardcover</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">Pages: 329</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">How I Got It: Purchaed</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">Genre: Fantasy, YA</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">Publisher: Feiwel & Friends</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Synopsis courtesy of Goodreads</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
As her father's chosen heir, eighteen-year-old Rasmira has trained her whole life to become a warrior and lead her village. But when her coming-of-age trial is sabotaged and she fails the test, her father banishes her to the monster-filled wilderness with an impossible quest: To win back her honor, she must kill the oppressive god who claims tribute from the villages each year—or die trying.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Review</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I read this in like 3 hours. And now I'm sad because I don't have any more Tricia Levenseller books to read. I just really enjoy her writing. For me, there is the right balance of fantasy, action, and romance. I also really appreciate a standalone fantasy.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
The Viking-inspired elements were interesting. And there was definitely a serious and dark tone. I was kept on the edge of my seat. I would get anxious and made on Rasmira's behalf. I even teared up a couple of times. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I've seen some people complain about the romance. I didn't think it overwhelmed the story but I also love a romance. The romance was cute and added some lightness to the story. The friendships were also a nice break. I also liked how the friendships impacted Rasmira and contributed to her character development.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Overall, this was engaging and a fun stand alone read. I loved spending time with these characters and in this world.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Thanks for reading!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Holly</div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7432880369537853863.post-69852219538761208802019-07-01T07:00:00.000-07:002019-07-01T07:00:07.860-07:00Book Review: Court of Fives by Kate Elliott<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;"><img alt="27415442" height="320" src="https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1467577692i/27415442.jpg" width="213" /></span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">Series: Court of Fives Book #1</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">Format: Paperback</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">Pages: 432</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">Rating: ⭐⭐⭐</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">How I Got It: Purchased</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">Genre: YA Fantasy</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">Publisher: Little Brown Books</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Synopsis courtesy of Goodreads</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Jessamy's life is a balance between acting like an upper-class Patron and dreaming of the freedom of the Commoners. But away from her family she can be whoever she wants when she sneaks out to train for The Fives, an intricate, multilevel athletic competition that offers a chance for glory to the kingdom's best contenders. Then Jes meets Kalliarkos, and an unlikely friendship between two Fives competitors--one of mixed race and the other a Patron boy--causes heads to turn. When Kal's powerful, scheming uncle tears Jes's family apart, she'll have to test her new friend's loyalty and risk the vengeance of a royal clan to save her mother and sisters from certain death. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Review</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I want to write a review, but may have waited too long to write this.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Overall, I enjoyed this. I've already purchased the sequel so my "issues" aren't too bad obviously. I have two main problems-the romance and I was soooo confused.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I love romance, so me complaining about it really says something. I have no issue with the relationship between these two characters, but it escalated way too fast. And it is a trilogy so there is time for more development and a slower burn. It is a class-difference story which is one of my favorite tropes.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Then, there's my confusion. I expect some level of confusion in a fantasy, but this started to interfere with my enjoyment. I'm just really confused about the politics and relationships between these groups of people. Hopefully, it will make more sense as the series continues.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I picked this up because of the family relationship. Initially, that wasn't as strong as I wanted, but that started to get better and I think that will continue. I love family relationships and interactions and I'm particularly interested in Jessamy's mother. She just fascinates me. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
While the social and political elements confuse me, I am interested in it. Ms. Elliott is exploring difficult topics which I like reading about. Fantasy offers that opportunity without all of the real-world history if you tried to write in our world. It sort of reminds me of The Winner's Curse in that way. But they aren't the same books/series in any way.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I will keep reading this series and see where it goes. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Oh, apparently, this is a Little Women re-telling. I've never read that and honestly have no interest, so I can't tell you how it works as a retelling.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Thanks for reading!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Holly</div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7432880369537853863.post-40039468891355712722019-06-21T06:00:00.000-07:002019-06-21T06:00:13.148-07:00Summer TBR (2019)<div style="text-align: center;">
Spring is ending and Summer is beginning so it is time for another seasonal </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
This is a 5 book TBR which I try to read in the next 3 months. 1 book that has been on my TBR for a long time and gets unhauled if I don't read it, 2 ebook TBR jar picks, and 2 physical TBR jar picks.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Here are the books I picked for the summer.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
TBR Veteran:</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="6310524" height="320" src="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1344662863l/6310524.jpg" width="204" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
E-Book picks</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="9279384" height="320" src="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1327962991l/9279384.jpg" width="202" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="26068390" height="320" src="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1439131560l/26068390.jpg" width="200" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Physical book picks</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="7775733" height="320" src="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1327896532l/7775733.jpg" width="185" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="34860402" height="320" src="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1509816682l/34860402.jpg" width="210" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Thanks for reading!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Holly</div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7432880369537853863.post-14058514809458864372019-06-12T07:00:00.000-07:002019-06-12T07:00:02.949-07:00Spring Book Haul<div style="text-align: center;">
I'm back with another book haul. I bought these over the last few months. A lot of them came from Thriftbooks, Library booksales, or Goodwill so I feel a little better about the money I have spent. Also, at least half of them were books I already had read or have read since buying them.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Here are the books I purchased.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: lime;"><b>March 2019 Purchases</b></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
The Darkest Surrender</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="8038219" height="200" src="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1327883317l/8038219.jpg" width="126" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
The Darkest Seduction</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="9995135" height="200" src="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1316891535l/9995135.jpg" width="130" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Destined for an Early Grave</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="5604848" height="200" src="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1315175949l/5604848.jpg" width="123" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
The Bear and the Nightingale</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="25489134" height="200" src="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1470731420l/25489134.jpg" width="134" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Rookie Move</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="27190530" height="200" src="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1456486844l/27190530.jpg" width="124" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Let Me Tell You about Jasper</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="30621778" height="200" src="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1466613041l/30621778.jpg" width="157" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Hot Response</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="35287623" height="200" src="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1496419282l/35287623.jpg" width="126" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
The Return</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="18809475" height="200" src="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1412877995l/18809475.jpg" width="133" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
The Power</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="26125281" height="200" src="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1439936107l/26125281.jpg" width="133" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
The Struggle</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="25092129" height="200" src="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1456699209l/25092129.jpg" width="133" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
The Prophecy</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="31193698" height="200" src="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1518463991l/31193698.jpg" width="131" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><span style="color: blue;">April 2019 Purchases</span></b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Soulless</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="6381205" height="200" src="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1314020848l/6381205.jpg" width="123" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Changeless</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="6933876" height="200" src="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1292566141l/6933876.jpg" width="123" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Blameless</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="7719355" height="200" src="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1293436281l/7719355.jpg" width="127" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Heartless</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="8356487" height="200" src="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1430530496l/8356487.jpg" width="125" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Shades of Wicked</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="38388574" height="200" src="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1520442527l/38388574.jpg" width="125" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Love & Gelato</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="25756328" height="200" src="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1452081385l/25756328.jpg" width="132" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Secrets of a Summer Night</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="6587379" height="200" src="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1438251935l/6587379.jpg" width="124" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
It Happened One Autumn</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="6561363" height="200" src="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1438252063l/6561363.jpg" width="124" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Devil in Winter</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="6641611" height="200" src="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1438252222l/6641611.jpg" width="124" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Scandal in Spring</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="6621307" height="200" src="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1486616254l/6621307.jpg" width="124" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Let's Get Textual</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="35527001" height="200" src="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1503672631l/35527001.jpg" width="128" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
A Scoundrel in Her Bed</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="38594296" height="200" src="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1533509813l/38594296.jpg" width="125" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Daughter of the Siren Queen</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="36682619" height="200" src="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1511933735l/36682619.jpg" width="132" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Warrior of the Wild</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="43446574" height="200" src="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1546468075l/43446574.jpg" width="132" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><span style="color: magenta;">May 2019 Purchases</span></b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
The Duchess Deal</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="33259027" height="200" src="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1490030736l/33259027.jpg" width="117" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Fluffy</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="43561153" height="200" src="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1548956243l/43561153.jpg" width="133" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
These Broken Stars</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="13138635" height="200" src="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1383578978l/13138635.jpg" width="131" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
The Bollywood Bride</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="18938929" height="200" src="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1450676975l/18938929.jpg" width="132" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
My Not So Perfect Life</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="30821598" height="200" src="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1498911971l/30821598.jpg" width="129" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Love from A to Z</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="40148146" height="200" src="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1545943011l/40148146.jpg" width="131" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I've Got Your Number</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="12033455" height="200" src="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1327956732l/12033455.jpg" width="132" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Illuminae</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="23395680" height="200" src="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1443433956l/23395680.jpg" width="132" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Him </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="25686927" height="200" src="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1436433289l/25686927.jpg" width="127" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Us</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="29475332" height="200" src="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1457596574l/29475332.jpg" width="131" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Thanks for reading!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Holly</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7432880369537853863.post-6693996336866459812019-06-07T06:00:00.000-07:002019-06-07T06:00:00.266-07:00Book Review: Guarding the Amish Midwife by Dana R. Lynn<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;"><img alt="43076929" height="320" src="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1550807857l/43076929.jpg" width="202" /></span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">Series: Amish Country Justice Book #6</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">Format: ebook</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">Rating: ⭐⭐⭐</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">How I Got It: NetGalley</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">Genre: Contemporary Romance, Suspense, Amish</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">Publisher: Love Inspired Suspense</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;"> </span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Synopsis courtesy of Goodreads</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
On the way to deliver a baby, Amish midwife Lizzy Miller witnesses her driver’s murder—and now someone plans to silence her. Lizzy knows better than to trust strangers, but she must depend on former Amish turned Englisch police officer Isaac Yoder. And there’s nowhere safe to hide…unless Isaac reconnects with the Amish community he left behind to protect the woman he’s falling for.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Review</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
***I received this book via NetGalley from the publisher in exchange for an honest review***</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
This is my second Amish romance-if you have any recommendations let me know. It was a fast read with compelling characters. The suspense element was suspenseful and gave me that nervous feeling in the pit of my stomach. But the romance felt a little underdeveloped which I think is one of the reasons I usually avoid romantic suspense. I never really felt the love between Lizzy and Isaac-I was just told they fell in love with each other. I did feel/buy the friendship connection between them. Maybe if they had more on-page conversations not related to the murder, it would've been more believable. I would be willing to read another book by Ms. Lynn when I'm in a romantic suspense mood.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Thanks for reading!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Holly</div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7432880369537853863.post-36452792472213603512019-06-05T07:00:00.000-07:002019-06-05T07:00:01.279-07:00Book Review: Winter's Beast by Twyla Turner<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><img alt="35272740" height="320" src="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1496234348l/35272740.jpg" width="212" /></span><br />
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">Stand Alone:</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">Format: ebook</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">Rating: ⭐⭐⭐</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">How I Got It: Purchased</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">Genre: Dark Romance, Contemporary</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">Publisher: Self-Published</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"> </span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Synopsis courtesy of Goodreads</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Ivan Petrov is a ruthless Russian businessman who is only six degrees off mob boss. He doesn't care about anything other than getting what he wants. And he wants Winter Rose, the prodigy opera singer, and is willing to torment her sexually until she begs for it. He could care less that Yury, his disfigured and most trusted guard has fallen for her. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Winter's Beast is one part sugar and sweet, two parts sex and sweat. It is not your typical Romance and although it has an HEA, it's a dark, twisty road to get there. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: red;">***WARNING*** </span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: red;">***Mature Content***May be triggering for some***</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Review</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Originally, I wasn't going to review this, but I can't get it out of my head. Maybe I should up my rating to 4 stars because of that.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
So, this book is very sexual and kinks. This does make me a little uncomfortable, but in a I'm the prude way, not because of the actual writing. I prefer more character and romance development, but Twyla Turner did a good job using the sexual encounters as a character development tool. Although it is a little redundant.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Winter and Yury were interesting characters and I'm grateful for the dual POV. The voice of both characters was a little too similar. Yury's a sympathetic "beast" character and I love a scarred character. There was one thing that happened to him near the end I wish hadn't . It was a solution for something that wasn't really a problem-in my opinion. I found winter's story fascinating. I'm not sure I've read about an albino before. and there was an added layer of her being black-so she didn't look like her family in a more drastic way than I would. Also, as an outside observing white lady, blackness is very important in the black community. Historically, people would idolize whiteness and lighten skin. Now, there's a backlash to that. Of course everyone is beautiful, but Winter has all of this compounding her Albinism. It was really interesting to read about. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
This was an interesting Beauty and the Beast retelling. It is a messy and complicated love story. It isn't for everyone, but I'm glad I read it.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Thanks for reading!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Holly</div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7432880369537853863.post-91583127454855664952019-06-03T06:00:00.000-07:002019-06-03T06:00:21.228-07:00May Wrap-Up (2019)<div style="text-align: center;">
I thought I felt a reading slump coming on around the middle of May. But I think I pushed past that because I got a lot of reading accomplished.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Audiobooks really helped. After the Books of Bayern I want more audiobooks-especially full-cast. I'm still only comfortable with listening to fiction if I've already read the book. This is actually helping me read the re-reads I want without cutting into reading of my new books.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
June is going to be pretty busy so my reading may take a backseat. Fortunately, I'm pretty ahead on my Goodreads challenge.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Here are the books I've read and their ratings:</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
The Return-4 Stars</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="18809475" height="200" src="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1412877995l/18809475.jpg" width="133" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
The Power-4 Stars</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="25857200" height="200" src="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1436151016l/25857200.jpg" width="133" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
The Fiery Heart-5 Stars</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="9833184" height="200" src="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1383243238l/9833184.jpg" width="132" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Top Secret-4 Stars</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="45280797" height="200" src="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1556600518l/45280797.jpg" width="131" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Fluffy-3 Stars</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="43561153" height="200" src="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1548956243l/43561153.jpg" width="133" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Brain Rules for Aging Well-4 Stars</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="36220300" height="200" src="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1505115007l/36220300.jpg" width="200" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
The Struggle-4 Stars</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="25092129" height="200" src="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1456699209l/25092129.jpg" width="133" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Forest Born-5 Stars</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="11175924" height="200" src="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1383771324l/11175924.jpg" width="200" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Fix Her Up-3 Stars</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="39854434" height="200" src="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1541001833l/39854434.jpg" width="131" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Tyranny of Petticoats-3 Stars</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="22020592" height="200" src="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1440757116l/22020592.jpg" width="132" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
The Prophecy-4 Stars</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="31193698" height="200" src="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1518463991l/31193698.jpg" width="131" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Fire-4 Stars</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="6137154" height="200" src="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1331535456l/6137154.jpg" width="132" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Winter's Beast-3 Stars </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="35272740" height="200" src="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1496234348l/35272740.jpg" width="133" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Thanks for reading!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Holly</div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7432880369537853863.post-47701620836742195682019-05-31T06:00:00.000-07:002019-05-31T06:00:08.473-07:00Book Review: A Tyranny of Petticoats edited by Jessica Spotswood<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><u><img alt="22020592" height="320" src="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1440757116l/22020592.jpg" width="212" /></u></span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">Anthology</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">Format: Hardcover</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">Pages: 354</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">Rating: ⭐⭐⭐</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">How I Got It: Gift</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">Genre: Young Adult, Historical Fiction</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">Publisher: Candlewick Press</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Synopsis courtesy of Goodreads</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Criss-cross America — on dogsleds and ships, stagecoaches and trains — from pirate ships off the coast of the Carolinas to the peace, love, and protests of 1960s Chicago. Join fifteen of today’s most talented writers of young adult literature on a thrill ride through history with American girls charting their own course. They are monsters and mediums, bodyguards and barkeeps, screenwriters and schoolteachers, heiresses and hobos. They're making their own way in often-hostile lands, using every weapon in their arsenals, facing down murderers and marriage proposals. And they all have a story to tell.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Review</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Anthologies are so hard to review. So, I did write quick comments on each short story as I read (see below).</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
They are nice because they expose you to new/different authors and stories. I definitely want to check out Y.S. Lee's books now and I'd never even hear of her before. It's a very diverse anthology in a variety of ways which is a plus of anthologies-a variety of POVs.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Most of these stories felt like a set-up for a large story. I wouldn't mind the reading of those books, but that isn't the purpose of an anthology. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Some of my favorite stories are:</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Madeline's Choice</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Gold in the Roots of the Grass</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
The Legendary Garrett Girls</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Hard Times</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
And here are my individual thoughts/reviews: </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>Mother Carey's Table</i>: 3 Stars. This one came across a little blah. Because it's short there's little opportunity to explore these characters. The descriptions were good and I could feel what Joe was feeling. But it wasn't anything special.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>The Journey</i>: 3 Stars. It deals with Europeans (I assume) encroaching on Native lands. She does a decent job of showing a snapshot in time. And there was tension that had me interested. But I wasn't blown away.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>Madeline's Choice</i>: 4 Stars. I really enjoyed this. It talked about a group of people I've never even hear of (which is awful). I really felt for Maddie and her situation. New Orleans has such a different history than the rest of the US. I liked a glimpse into that story/place in time. I wouldn't hate if Ms. Spotswood wrote a whole series in this setting. Now, I need to learn more the <i>gens de couleur libres</i>.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>El Destinos</i>: 3 Stars. This follows mythological characters-the Fates-in a non-traditional setting. It was interesting to see her play with the setting and culture. I cared about these characters, but would have preferred more. It kind of feels like a lot to shove into a short story.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>High Stakes</i>: 3 Stars. This story blends supernatural elements with the historical fiction. It had potential, but too much scope for such a short story. I was engaged and wanted to know more which kept me reading. But ultimately, I was a little disappointed. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>The Red Raven Ball</i>: 3 Stars. Another Civil War-set story which I'm beginning to realize I don't read a lot of. It is an interesting time to explore-especially because the war split families apart. This was a bit predictable. And again felt like a lot for a short story-not so bad if you look at it as a snapshot in time. There is a trend with these stories.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>Pearls</i>: 3 Stars. This was probably one of the better stories, but I can't give it more than 3 stars. You have to make a lot of guesses/inferences about certain events and characters. Ms. Revis left the right amount of bread crumbs. And I really liked the ending.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>Gold in the Roots of the Grass</i>: 4 Stars. My favorite (so far) which is even more impressive because this isn't a setting I particularly like. There was so much packed into this story and it was done well. Ms. Meyer slowly weaved cultural and character background info so you understood, but didn't get an info dump. She showcased the darkness of the setting, but also had a beautiful hopefulness.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>The Legendary Garrett Girls</i>: 3 Stars. I really enjoyed this. It's almost a 4 star, but I can't quite go there. The characters were interesting-I particularly like the sister's relationship. Ms. Lee kept me on the end of my seat and I had no idea how the conflict would be resolved. I've never even heard of Ms. Lee, but I'm definitely interested in checking out her books now.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>The Color of the Sky</i>: 3 Stars. What to say? This was good, but not for me. It was like a snapshot in time (again) which is not something I typically like. I did like learning about a historical figure I've never heard of. I definitely want to learn more about here. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>Bonnie & Clyde</i>: 3 Stars. I don't even have anything to say. But I want to write something for each story. This was fine, but fairly forgettable.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>Hard Times</i>: 3 Stars. This was so close to four stars. It was interesting with compelling characters. But it was another set up/snapshot story. I would love a full-length exploration of this story and characters.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>City of Angels</i>: 3 Stars. This story made me so sad. there was a hopefulness to it, but mostly it made me sad for Evie (and Frankie) and the real people who were in their situation. It is written well-very close to 4 stars. Sorry, I can't explain why.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>Pulse of the Panthers</i>: 3 Stars. This story covers a difficult and awful time in American history. It's important to discuss this time. It was well-written but I think the Black Panthers are a complicated organization, so it's hard to discuss them in a short story. I did recently listen to a podcast that discussed Bobby Seale so it was interesting to read his name. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>The Whole World is Watchin</i>g: 3 Stars. Thankfully, this story had a hopeful element. When it started I thought the anthology would end on a sad note because of the content. Again, I think this is a pretty complicated time/situation/event to condense into a short story. And I came in with some outside knowledge.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Thanks for reading!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Holly </div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7432880369537853863.post-19691485511500398232019-05-29T06:00:00.000-07:002019-05-29T06:00:09.928-07:00Book Review: Fix Her Up by Tessa Bailey<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;"><img alt="39854434" height="320" src="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1541001833l/39854434.jpg" width="210" /></span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">Series: Hot & Hammered Book #1</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">Format: ebook</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">Rating: ⭐⭐⭐</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">How I Got It: NetGalley</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">Genre: Contemporary Romance</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">Publisher: Avon</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;"> </span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Synopsis courtesy of Goodreads</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Georgette Castle’s family runs the best home renovation business in town, but she picked balloons instead of blueprints and they haven’t taken her seriously since. Frankly, she’s over it. Georgie loves planning children’s birthday parties and making people laugh, just not at her own expense. She’s determined to fix herself up into a Woman of the World... whatever that means.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Phase one: new framework for her business (a website from this decade, perhaps?)</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Phase two: a gut-reno on her wardrobe (fyi, leggings are pants.)</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Phase three: updates to her exterior (do people still wax?)</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Phase four: put herself on the market (and stop crushing on Travis Ford!)</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Living her best life means facing the truth: Georgie hasn’t been on a date since, well, ever. Nobody’s asking the town clown out for a night of hot sex, that’s for sure. Maybe if people think she’s having a steamy love affair, they’ll acknowledge she’s not just the “little sister” who paints faces for a living. And who better to help demolish that image than the resident sports star and tabloid favorite?</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Travis Ford was major league baseball’s hottest rookie when an injury ended his career. Now he’s flipping houses to keep busy and trying to forget his glory days. But he can’t even cross the street without someone recapping his greatest hits. Or making a joke about his… bat. And then there's Georgie, his best friend’s sister, who is not a kid anymore. When she proposes a wild scheme—that they pretend to date, to shock her family and help him land a new job—he agrees. What’s the harm? It’s not like it’s real. But the girl Travis used to tease is now a funny, full-of-life woman and there’s nothing fake about how much he wants her.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Review</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
***I received this book via NetGalley from the publisher in exchange for an honest review***</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
This was a fun book full of tropes I'm not a fan of. The characters are interesting and easy to like. But this combines unrequited love, dating a friend's sibling, and fake dating. The over-protective older brother thing just always rubs me the wrong way. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Georgie is a fun heroine. She is navigating growing up and having her family see her as an adult. I think this is a relatable situation. I enjoyed reading about the interpersonal dynamic especially between her and her sister, Bethany.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Travis is a former baseball who was forced out by an injury. He also had a tough history. Personally, I like damaged characters like this. (I am not analyzing what that says about me) I do wish his childhood was explored more. He is a pretty standard romance hero. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
The romance was cute. There's some fake-dating elements. It's super tropey. Georgie and Travis have good chemistry and push each other (in a good way). I found the sex scenes a little off-putting though. It was very aggressive which on its own doesn't bother me. But it felt like it didn't make sense. Maybe I'm just too judgy.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I enjoy the female friendships/sequel bait. I am definitely interested in the next book. It is about a struggling married couple and I'm all about that.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Thanks for reading!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Holly</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7432880369537853863.post-83744764874455831192019-05-27T06:00:00.000-07:002019-05-27T06:00:06.874-07:00Book Review: Fluffy by Julia Kent<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;"><img alt="43561153" height="320" src="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1548956243l/43561153.jpg" width="213" /></span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">Stand Alone-I guess</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">Format: Trade Paperback</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">Pages: 267</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">Rating: ⭐⭐⭐</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">How I Got It: Purchased</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">Genre: Contemporary Romance</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">Publisher: Prosaic Press</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;"> </span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Synopsis courtesy of Goodreads</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
It all started with the wrong Help Wanted ad. Of course it did.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I’m a professional fluffer. It’s NOT what you think. I stage homes for a living. Real estate agents love me, and my work stands on its own merits.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Sigh. Get your mind out of the gutter. Go ahead. Laugh. I’ll wait.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
See? That’s the problem. My career has used the term “fluffer” for decades. I didn’t even know there was a more… lascivious definition of the term.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Until it was too late. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
The ad for a “professional fluffer” on Craigslist seemed like divine intervention. My last unemployment check was in the bank. I was desperate. Rent was due. The ad said cash paid at the end of the day. The perfect job! </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Staging homes means showing your best angle. The same principle applies in making a certain kind of movie. Turns out a “fluffer” doesn’t arrange decorative pillows on a couch.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
They arrange other soft, round-ish objects.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
The job isn’t hard. Er, I mean, it is — it’s about being hard. Or, well… helping other people to be hard.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Oh, man…</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
And that’s the other problem. A man. No, not one of the stars on the movie set. Will Lotham – my high school crush. The owner of the house where we’re filming. Illegally. In a vacation rental.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
By the time the cops show up, what I thought was just a great house staging gig turned into a nightmare involving pictures of me with an undressed star, Will rescuing me from an arrest, and a humiliating lesson in my own naivete.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
My job turned out to be so much harder than I expected. But you know what’s easier than I ever imagined?</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Having all my dreams come true.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Review</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I first heard about this from a Faceback ad. Normally, I just scroll on by, but the cover caught my eyes. Then, I read the description and decided I needed to read this.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Overall, it was a decent book and I have no major complaints. But there was an immaturity...I guess I'll call it. Mal's outlook and personality was all over the place. And she kept complaining. I understand conflicts are needed, but it was a little annoying. There were also some continuity issues that just made her annoying. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
There is a positive female friendship. Personally, I'd find the three of them annoying, but you can tell they really care about each other. I probably will check out Perky's book, but don't need to read it asap.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
The romance was cute. It was superficial in a Hallmark movie kind of way-of Hallmark featured porn and porn references. There wasn't anything wrong with the romance, but I think it could've been more flushed out. The hero was a real nice and likable guy. It is sort of an unrequited love story which is a trope I'm not a big fan of. This wasn't too moony for Will. She did dwell a tad too much on her high school self.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Speaking of which, does anyone else hate reunion story lines. I've always had a problem with them because they feel unrealistic. Now, that I've been to my own 10 year high school reunion I feel even more stronger about it. People need to grow up. Maybe I just graduated with some really mature people.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
These seems like a very negative review, but I didn't hate it. There were just a ton of tiny things I found a little annoying. Sorry for all the negativity.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Thanks for reading!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Holly</div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7432880369537853863.post-48384645756162453902019-05-24T07:00:00.000-07:002019-05-24T07:00:06.600-07:00Book Review: Top Secret by Sarina Bowen & Elle Kennedy<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;"><img alt="45280797" height="320" src="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1556600518l/45280797.jpg" width="210" /></span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">Stand Alone</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">Format: ebook</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">How I Got It: Purchased</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">Genre: New Adult, Contemporary Romance, M/M</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">Publisher: Self-Published</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;"> </span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Synopsis courtesy of Goodreads</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
LobsterShorts, 21</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Jock. Secretly a science geek. Hot AF.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
LobsterShorts: So. Here goes. For her birthday, my girlfriend wants…a threesome.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
SinnerThree: Then you’ve come to the right hookup app.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
LobsterShorts: Have you done this sort of thing before? With another guy?</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
SinnerThree: All the time. I'm an equal opportunity player. You?</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
LobsterShorts: [crickets!]</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
SinnerThree, 21</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Finance major. Secretly a male dancer. Hot AF. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
SinnerThree: Well, I’m down if you are. My life is kind of a mess right now. School, work, family stress. Oh, and I live next door to the most annoying dude in the world. I need the distraction. Are you sure you want this?</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
LobsterShorts: I might want it a little more than I’m willing to admit.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
SinnerThree: Hey, nothing wrong with pushing your boundaries...</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
LobsterShorts: Tell that to my control-freak father. Anyway. What if this threesome is awkward?</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
SinnerThree: Then it’s awkward. It’s not like we’ll ever have to see each other again. Right? Just promise you won’t fall in love with me.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
LobsterShorts: Now wouldn’t that be life-changing...</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Review</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Sarina Bowen and Elle Kennedy are back with another M/M romance. And it definitely delivered. It was fun, engaging, and full of great characters.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
A lot of M/M romances (I've read) are pretty angsty. Keaton and Luke don't have perfect lives, but there isn't a ton of angst. Instead there is tons of humor and great banter. There's also an enemies-to-lovers element which is executed pretty well. The two main characters interact a lot through a dating app which I love. I'm a sucker for textual communications.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Keaton and Luke begin their app convos because Keaton's girlfriend wants a threesome for her birthday. Ms. Bowen and Ms. Kennedy say there is not a cheating element to this story. I can see why that is their standpoint, but I think it's actually more of a personal view on these grey areas.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Sometimes surrounding Keaton's girlfriend are what stops me from giving this five stars. I like her...it's other stuff.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Keaton and Luke were both great characters and I love their interactions. Keaton always has fun animal facts which I think is adorable. I'm also full of useless information so I can relate. They both had personal struggles which aren't related to their sexuality. I really liked that being gay/bi is not the only identifier for them and the only conflict.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
This was such a fun and exciting read. It was a joy to read and I highly recommend it.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Thanks for reading!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Holly</div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7432880369537853863.post-39926287749065408772019-05-22T07:00:00.000-07:002019-05-22T07:00:06.689-07:00Book Review: Daughter of the Siren Queen by Tricia Levenseller<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;"><img alt="36682619" height="320" src="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1511933735l/36682619.jpg" width="211" /></span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">Series: Daughter of the Pirate King Book #2</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">Format: Hardcover</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">Pages: 341</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">How I Got It: Bought</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">Genre: Young Adult, Fantasy</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">Publisher: Feiwel & Friends</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Synopsis courtesy of Goodreads</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Alosa's mission is finally complete. Not only has she recovered all three pieces of the map to a legendary hidden treasure, but the pirates who originally took her captive are now prisoners on her ship. Still unfairly attractive and unexpectedly loyal, first mate Riden is a constant distraction, but now he's under her orders. And she takes great comfort in knowing that the villainous Vordan will soon be facing her father's justice.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
When Vordan exposes a secret her father has kept for years, Alosa and her crew find themselves in a deadly race with the feared Pirate King. Despite the danger, Alosa knows they will recover the treasure first . . . after all, she is the daughter of the Siren Queen.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Review</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I could not put this down. I read it so fast so I'm nervous about writing a review. But it's also a sequel so I do want to avoid spoilers.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
A lot happened and I was definitely on the edge of my seat. There was tons of great tension with the plot and romance. I kept questioning what was going to happen.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
And it definitely felt like a satisfying conclusion. I would've loved an epilogue, but I would always like an epilogue. There was a good blend of danger and "happiness' throughout the story-if that makes sense.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
If you like the first book, I think you would like this one. This is one of my favorite books of the year. I only wish MS. Lvenseller had more books published. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Thanks for reading!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Holly</div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7432880369537853863.post-58987162924429740132019-05-20T07:00:00.000-07:002019-05-20T07:00:03.956-07:00Book Review: River Secrets by Shannon Hale<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;"><img alt="2876228" height="320" src="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1293999645l/2876228.jpg" width="208" /></span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">Series: The Books of Bayern #3</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">Format: AudioBook</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">How I Got It: Library (I own a paperback)</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">Genre: Young Adult, Fantasy</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">Publisher: Full Cast Audio/Bloomsbury</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;"> </span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Synopsis courtesy of Goodreads</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Bayern has triumphed in its war with Tira. But though the war is over, simmering anger remains among the Tirans and new hostilities could erupt at any moment. In a desperate attempt to maintain the peace, King Geric sends an ambassador to the Tiran capitol. Of course, an ambassador needs a military guard. Razo—short, impish, and not at all skilled at combat—longs to be among those selected to go, but thinks he has no chance. So he is astounded when Captain Talone taps him to join the group. He's even more astounded when he discovers the secret reason for Talone's decision. All too soon Razo is up to his eyeballs in a simmering mix of danger and intrigue—not to mention an unexpected romance. But as the gruesome deaths mount, everyone is a suspect...even the girl who has stolen Razo's heart.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Review</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I'm obsessed with the full-cast audiobooks for this series. I didn't remember a lot of the content from this story, but I remembered not liking it as much as the first two. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Now, I freaking love it. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Razo is so adorable and I love him. He is incredibly sweet and a great protagonist. I don't know if I've read another lead-especially male-like this. He's awkward, but not too awkward to be hard to read or unrealistic. I suffer from sympathetic anxiety when characters are too awkward and it can be real distracting. Razo also had a growth and compelling journal to read.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
There was a mystery element that kept me on the edge of my seat. I really just wanted to lay on my bed and listen to the audiobook. The narrator and other voice actors did a great job bringing these characters to life.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Ms. Hale creates a magical world and it comes across effortless. With each book she adds more to the world and characters to make them feel even more real. She is spectacular author and I'm just in awe.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I'm excited to read/listen to the last book. I remember it being my least favorite, but who knows with the audiobooks.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Thanks for reading!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Holly</div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7432880369537853863.post-62417031687092970122019-05-17T07:00:00.000-07:002019-05-17T07:00:13.897-07:00Book Review: The Earl Next Door by Amelia Grey <div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;"><img alt="41150501" height="320" src="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1541760723l/41150501.jpg" width="195" /></span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">Series: First Comes Love Book #1</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">Format: ebook</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">Rating: ⭐⭐⭐</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">How I Got It: NetGalley</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">Genre: Historical Romance</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">Publisher: St. Martin's Press </span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Synopsis courtesy of Goodreads</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Adeline, Dowager Countess of Wake, is all on her own after her husband’s sudden death. The good news? Losing him allowed her to find herself. Finally, Adeline is free to do, go, and be as she pleases. She cherishes her newfound independence and is not looking for another man to wed. But seeking out a new lover? Well, that is a whole ’nother story. . .</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Lord Lyon, son of the two-timing Earl of Marksworth, wishes to have a respectable, loving wife someday. When he meets the beautiful and self-reliant Adeline, Lyon is instantly smitten. But Adeline would rather have the handsome suitor in her bed than to take his hand in marriage. It’s a scandalous proposal—and one that’s hard for Lyon to refuse. Unless the fire of his passion can melt Adeline’s resolve. . .and he can find a way to be the Wickedly Wonderful Widow’s lover for all time?</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Review</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: purple;">***I received this book via NetGalley from the publisher in exchange for an honest review***</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I was interested in the concept of this story. I particularly like this group of three widows who are different and have a strong friendship. However, I wasn't particularly invested in the romance .</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Initially, I was enjoying the story. Adeline and Lyon had great chemistry. And they were interesting on their own. Adeline has a great friendship with two other widows-they lost their husbands in the same tragic accident. The three all were a little different and that made for some compelling sequel bait.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Then, Adeline and Lyon had sex. For the first few paragraphs of that interaction-I thought it was some sort of dream sequence. It felt so unnatural. And that's actually how I felt about all of the sex-related interactions between them. It just made me care about the romance less and less every time they interacted. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Ultimately, I was disappointed by this-more of a 2.5 stars-but I round up. That being said, I would be willing to read stories about the other widows. But I would probably get them from the library in case they have the same pacing issue. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Thanks for reading!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Holly</div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7432880369537853863.post-35817182210431193392019-05-15T07:00:00.000-07:002019-05-15T07:00:01.870-07:00Book Review: Daughter of the Pirate King by Tricia Levenseller<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;"><img alt="33643994" height="320" src="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1483132546l/33643994.jpg" width="211" /></span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">Series: Daughter of the Pirate King Book #1</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">Format: Hardcover</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">Pages: 311</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">How I Got It: Purchased</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">Genre: Fantasy, Young Adult</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">Publisher: Feiwel Friends</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;"> </span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Synopsis courtesy of Goodreads</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Sent on a mission to retrieve an ancient hidden map—the key to a legendary treasure trove—seventeen-year-old pirate captain Alosa deliberately allows herself to be captured by her enemies, giving her the perfect opportunity to search their ship.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
More than a match for the ruthless pirate crew, Alosa has only one thing standing between her and the map: her captor, the unexpectedly clever and unfairly attractive first mate, Riden. But not to worry, for Alosa has a few tricks up her sleeve, and no lone pirate can stop the Daughter of the Pirate King.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Review</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I thoroughly enjoyed this. It isn't a massive fantasy with multiple POVs and I'm thankful for that. There is a fairly substantial romance element, but I didn't think it was the main focus and I liked it. I haven't read a ton of pirate books and I want to check out more.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Objectively, I can see some issues with this book, but I don't care. There was some "secrets" that were pretty obvious. And Alosa had some SJ Maas heroine tendencies-by which I mean she's almost too perfect and she has skills that conveniently show up. But Alosa had enough issues and believability so I was able to overlook those "issues".</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Ms. Levenseller didn't ignore the dark aspects of piracy-especially death. Sometimes people glamorize piracy so I'm glad she didn't stray from all that. And it definitely helped create tension and show how high-stakes situations were. At the same time, it wasn't particularly gory or over-the-top which is how I prefer my violence. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
There is a nice fairly steamy romance. But I feel it was kind of oversold in some reviews and wrap-ups I saw. I am a romance reader so maybe my perspective is skewed. I liked the romantic elements. I'm definitely curious to see how it progresses in the second/final book.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
This book has a political aspect-which I like-but it's pirate politics. I like that Ms. Levenseller focuses on the small portion of this world. You don't need multiple countries and 10 maps to keep things organized to have a solid fantasy story. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I've already purchased the next book and Ms. Levenseller's 2019 release. I'm excited to read both ASAP.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Thanks for reading!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Holly</div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7432880369537853863.post-44047695069197966302019-05-13T07:00:00.000-07:002019-05-13T07:00:02.369-07:00Book Review: Hot Response by Shannon Stacey<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;"><img alt="35287623" height="320" src="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1496419282l/35287623.jpg" width="202" /></span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">Series: Boston Fire Book #4</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">Format: Mass Market Paperback</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">Pages: 270</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">How I Got It: Purchased</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">Genre: Contemporary Romance</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">Publisher: Carina Press</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Synopsis courtesy of Goodreads</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Gavin Boudreau lives for the job, but he also believes in “work hard, play harder.” As the youngest guy in Ladder 37, he figures he’s got plenty of time before settling down becomes a priority. Soft, pretty women who aren’t looking for promises are exactly his type, and he’s comfortable with that. Working with a gorgeous EMT isn’t going to change who he is.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
The last thing Cait Tasker needs in her personal life is a firefighter whose challenges on-scene have been a thorn in her side from minute one. Her plate’s too full for a man anyway. Back in her childhood home to help her family cope with an unexpected tragedy, she’s got enough to handle without throwing a hot, testosterone-laden fireman into the mix.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
As long days on the job lead to long nights together, Gavin and Cait will discover how far temptation can take them—and what happens when the one you thought was all wrong for you turns out to be the person you can’t live without.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Review</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Is this my favorite Shannon Stacey book? Or has it been a couple months since I read one and I forgot how amazing she is? Who knows, but I freaking loved this. The characters, the romance, the friendships, the world. Seriously, I feel like I'm part of this firehouse family every time I pick up one of these books. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Gavin and Cait were both great characters and I loved how they foiled each other (look at me using that $200K English degree). He was so nice and I loved how he always found humor in things. And I really appreciated how seriously they both took their jobs and how passionate they were. I understand Cait's family situation, but sometimes she frustrated me. I'm definitely more in line with Gavin's thoughts on it. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
The romance was fun and well-paced. It had some enemies-to-lovers, but wasn't full blown which was nice. I loved that they had to navigate real things like crazy work hours to even go on a date. Sometimes I read romance novels and I wonder if these people even have jobs because they just band all day and night. I'm happy for them but I have bills to pay.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Can I add how much you can tell Ms. Stacey respects first responders. she puts so much care into showing their stories. Firefighters are often treated as sexy, but she really takes the time to build great characters and things like the firehouse family. The hero isn't just a firefighter so we can have firefighter abs on the cover. And I'm so grateful for this. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Thanks for reading!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Holly</div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7432880369537853863.post-49764445508653519802019-05-10T07:00:00.000-07:002019-05-10T07:00:00.266-07:00Book Review: Manners & Mutiny by Gail Carriger<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;"><img alt="18725742" height="320" src="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1446588599l/18725742.jpg" width="214" /></span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">Series: Finishing School Book #4</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">Format: Hardcover</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">Pages: 326</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">How I Got It: Purchased</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">Genre: Young Adult, Fantasy, Paranormal</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">Publisher: Little Brown Books</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><b><br /></b></span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;">
<b><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> </span>Synopsis courtesy of Goodreads</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Lessons in the art of espionage aboard Mademoiselle Geraldine's floating dirigible have become tedious without Sophronia's sootie Soap nearby. She would rather thwart dastardly Picklemen, yet her concerns about their wicked intentions are ignored. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Who can she trust? Royal werewolf dewan? Stylish vampire Lord Akeldama? Only one thing is certain: a large-scale plot is under way. Sophronia must be ready to save her friends, her school, and all of London from disaster.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Review</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I love Gail Carriger! Her voice as a writer is so unique and intoxicating. There's often tongue-in-cheek humor, but she isn't afraid of dangerous situations. She's able to blend all of this together effortlessly.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
This was a perfect ending. Of course I would love to spend more time with many of these characters, but I don't need it. Now, I want to re-read The Parasol Protectorate just to be in this world again. I also want to read the other books she's written.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
This review is pretty vague because I'm trying to avoid any spoilers.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Sophronia is a spectacular heroine and I loved going on this journey with her. The friendships and relationships were written well and with great nuance. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I'm just so glad I read this series and was able to enjoy it. Everyone I picked it up I felt myself smiling.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Thanks for reading!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Holly</div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7432880369537853863.post-68477742185303039852019-05-08T07:00:00.000-07:002019-05-08T07:00:04.437-07:00Book Review: Succubus Shadows by Richelle Mead <div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;"><img alt="6916963" height="320" src="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1315977677l/6916963.jpg" width="212" /></span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">Series: Georgina Kincaid Book #5</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">Format: ebook</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">How I Got It: Borrowed from Library</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">Genre: Paranormal, Romance</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">Publisher: Kensington</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Synopsis courtesy of Goodreads</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Georgina Kincaid has formidable powers. Immortality, seduction, shape-shifting into any human form she desires, walking in heels that would cripple mere mortals -- all child's play to a succubus like her.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Helping to plan her ex-boyfriend's wedding is a different story. Georgina isn't sure which is worse -- that Seth is marrying another woman, or that Georgina has to run all over Seattle trying on bridesmaid dresses. Still, there are distractions. Georgina's roommate, Roman, is cluttering her apartment with sexual tension. Then there's Simone, the new succubus in town, who's intent on corrupting Seth.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
But the real danger lies in the mysterious force that's visiting her thoughts, trying to draw her into a dark, otherworldly realm. Sooner or later, Georgina knows she'll be too weak to resist. And when that happens, she'll discover who she can trust, who she can't -- and that Hell is far from the worst place to spend eternity.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Review</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I have a love-hate relationship with this series. Like I can't stop reading and care about these characters. But there is so much about the content in them that is a pet peeve of mine. Naturally, I will continue to read because I am invested.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
There was some serious movement in Georgina's personal story. Including her history-which was where I got really emotional. And the ending almost had me in tears.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Really, I just want to talk my desires for the last book.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><span style="color: purple;">So, maybe spoilers ahead.</span></i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I really want more information on Carter. Why do these types of stories always have mysterious angels? I am sucker for them. And Georgina's dream better be like the epilogue or something.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I guess this wasn't much of a review. Sorry, I just had to get my thoughts out in the world.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Thanks for reading!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Holly </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7432880369537853863.post-15314181538598740412019-05-06T06:00:00.000-07:002019-05-06T06:00:10.047-07:00April Wrap-Up (2019)<div style="text-align: center;">
April was a crazy month. I had lots of stuff going on in my personal life that created extra stress. I had to cut back on my YouTube and Blog content to make it through.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Reading was definitely a safe haven. I found myself retreating into books. They are such a magical thing. I was also able to read lots of really good books. I finally have books. I finally have something to put on my top reads of 2019. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I'm ready for life to be less stressful, but hopefully maintain this reading place. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Here are the books I read and their ratings.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Succubus Shadows-4 Stars</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="6916963" height="200" src="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1315977677l/6916963.jpg" width="133" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Waistcoats & Weaponry-4 Stars</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="20980648" height="200" src="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1402673646l/20980648.jpg" width="132" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Manners & Mutiny-5 Stars</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="18725742" height="200" src="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1446588599l/18725742.jpg" width="133" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
No Other Duke But You-3 Stars</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="41150541" height="200" src="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1537933514l/41150541.jpg" width="121" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Hot Response-4 Stars</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="35287623" height="200" src="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1496419282l/35287623.jpg" width="126" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Succubus Revealed-4 Stars</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="12066628" height="200" src="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1327934966l/12066628.jpg" width="136" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
How to Entice an Enchantress-3 Stars</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="17571127" height="200" src="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1365913726l/17571127.jpg" width="122" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Organize Tomorrow Today-3 Stars</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="33905155" height="200" src="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1484911494l/33905155.jpg" width="200" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Daughter of the Pirate King-5 Stars</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="33643994" height="200" src="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1483132546l/33643994.jpg" width="132" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
The Earl Next Door-3 Stars</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="41150501" height="200" src="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1541760723l/41150501.jpg" width="122" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Riden's Chapter-3 Stars</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="38712703" height="200" src="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1520919379l/38712703.jpg" width="132" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
River Secrets-5 Stars</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="10088391" src="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1328302674l/10088391.jpg" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Daughter of the Siren Queen-5 Stars</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="36682619" height="200" src="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1511933735l/36682619.jpg" width="132" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Thanks for reading!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Holly</div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7432880369537853863.post-48017425051976690232019-05-03T07:00:00.000-07:002019-05-03T07:00:08.298-07:00Book Review: No Other Duke But You by Valerie Bowman<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;"><img alt="41150541" height="320" src="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1537933514l/41150541.jpg" width="194" /></span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">Series: Playful Brides Book #11</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">Format: ebook</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">Rating: ⭐⭐⭐</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">How I Got It: NetGalley</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">Genre: Historical Romance</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">Publisher: St. Martin's Press</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;"> </span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Synopsis courtesy of Goodreads</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Lady Delilah Montebank has her marital sights set on the Duke of Branville. There’s just one problem: he barely knows she exists. But no matter, she’s got a plan to win him over with her charm, her wit—and perhaps the love potion she has in her possession wouldn’t hurt her cause...</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Lord Thomas Hobbs, Duke of Huntley, thinks his best friend Delilah’s quest to become a duchess is ridiculous. He’s always said he’d rather give up all the brandy in London than commit to one person for life. Besides, he knows that Delilah’s love potion can’t possibly win over Branville…since she accidentally gave it to him instead. But perhaps this is the excuse he needs to show her he’s always loved her...</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Delilah can’t believe she gave the potion to the wrong duke. Then again, Delilah could do a lot worse than win the hand of her handsome best friend. Could it be that the right duke has been before her eyes all along?</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Review</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
***I received this book via NetGalley from the publisher in exchange for an honest review***</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
This was a cute and fun read. It reminded me a little of Julia Quinn-light and not particularly high stakes. There is no crazy mystery or danger. Sometimes you just need a sweet romance with nice characters.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
This is part friends-to-lovers and part unrequited love and it worked really well. I really liked the friendship between the hero and heroine. Is it realist? Probably not. Do I care? No. It was nice to read about supportive friendships and it is a nice foundation for a romance.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Actually, there were so many great friendships. They have a great friend circle. It's full of men and women who love and support each other. It's a great found-family which is one of my favorite things to read about. It's especially nice to see in historicals because there's often toxic relationships in them.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
The romance was cute and had some sitcom or rom-com elements. Maybe a comedy of errors kind of thing. I have no real complaints, but it isn't anything special. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I did get confused about who some of the side characters are and how they connect to each other. That did frustrate me a little. But his is the 11th book in the series and I'm sure if I had read the previous books I would be less confused.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Overall, this wasn't particularly memorable-I'm already forgetting things. I would read other books in the series, but don't feel the need to pick them up ASAP.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Thanks for reading!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Holly</div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7432880369537853863.post-56295369145215649922019-05-01T07:00:00.000-07:002019-05-01T07:00:04.415-07:00Book Review: In a Badger Way by Shelly Laurenston<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;"><img alt="40691027" height="320" src="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1542490943l/40691027.jpg" width="212" /></span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">Series: Honey Badger Chronicles Book #2</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">Format: ebook</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">How I Got It: NetGalley</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">Genre: Paranormal, Romance, Shapeshifters</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">Publisher: Kensington</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;"> </span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Synopsis courtesy of Goodreads</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Petite, kind, brilliant, and young, Stevie is nothing like the usual women bodyguard Shen Li is interested in. Even more surprising, the youngest of the lethal, ball-busting, and beautiful MacKilligan sisters is terrified of bears. But she’s not terrified of pandas. She loves pandas. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Which means that whether Shen wants her to or not, she simply won’t stop cuddling him. He isn’t some stuffed Giant Panda, ya know! He is a Giant Panda shifter. He deserves respect and personal space. Something that little hybrid is completely ignoring.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
But Stevie has a way of finding trouble. Like going undercover to take down a scientist experimenting on other shifters. For what, Shen doesn’t want to know, but they’d better find out. And fast. Stevie might be the least violent of the honey badger sisters, but she’s the most dangerous to Shen’s peace of mind. Because she has absolutely no idea how much trouble they’re in . . . or just how damn adorable she is. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Review</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
***I received this book via NetGalley from the publisher in exchange for an honest review***</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
This is my 3rd Shelly Laurenston book and the second in this series. All three have confused the hell out of me, but I don't even care. The stories and characters are so crazy, but I am hooked after one page.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Stevie and her sisters are over-the-top and are each 10 pounds of crazy in their own 5 pound bags. The love they have for each other is so good. There are actually tons of positive familial and regular friendships. I love reading about those.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Shen is just the cutest Panda. He is so calm in such a stressful world. I could actually feel his calmness whenever he was the POV character. It allowed me to relax as the reader. I loved his constant and methodical eating of bamboo. I'm totally team panda.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
There is a romantic sub plot. It was fun and kind of unique. The way Stevie approaches romance (and friendships) is different than anything I've ever read. She's like a bulldozer and I mean that in the best possible way.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
While I was (and continue to be) confused, I did like getting more info on this world-especially the MacKilligan family. I'm assuming I have to wait a year for another book and I can't wait. Plus, I'm guess it's be more focused on Max and I need that.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Thanks for reading!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Holly</div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0