The Unidentified Redhead by Alice Clayton

When Grace Sheridan returns to Los Angeles to become a working actress, it’s a second shot at a life-long dream. With some help from her best-friend agent, will that dream become a reality—or at thirty-three, has Grace missed her chance at the big time? And when an unexpected sizzling romance with Jack Hamilton, the entertainment industry's newest “it” boy, threatens to shine an uncomfortable spotlight on her life, how will that affect her career…and his?

Funny, borderline neurotic Grace is perfect in her imperfections, and the sexual chemistry between her and charming yet blissfully unaware Jack is off the charts. With laugh-out-loud dialogue and a super-steamy romance that will get your heart racing, sneaking around in L.A. and dodging the paparazzi has never been so fun.

4 Stars

I received a copy of The Unidentified Redhead courtesy of the publisher in exchange for a review.

How did I miss this gem by Alice Clayton? I read Wallbanger awhile back and LOVED it, but The Unidentified Redhead seemed to get shoved onto my TBR and overlooked. Seems to be a trend lately *sigh* Grace Sheridan is 33, single, and living back in LA, ready to take the acting world by storm. Enter her best friend Holly's new client, Jack Hamilton. Jack is a 24 yr old newbie heart throb, and instantly clicks with Grace, propositioning her for a tryst. What perhaps started as a hot and hilarious fling quickly became a real romance, eliciting a few 'ahh's' from me, as well as my new book boyfriend going by the name Sweet Nuts. He also answers to George...I applaud Alice Clayton for letting this 33 yr old cougar live vicariously thru The Redhead. Can't wait to start on The Redhead Revealed!

~Mandy

Uses for Boys by Erica Lorraine Scheidt

Anna remembers a time before boys, when she was little and everything made sense. When she and her mom were a family, just the two of them against the world. But now her mom is gone most of the time, chasing the next marriage, bringing home the next stepfather. Anna is left on her own—until she discovers that she can make boys her family. From Desmond to Joey, Todd to Sam, Anna learns that if you give boys what they want, you can get what you need. But the price is high—the other kids make fun of her; the girls call her a slut. Anna's new friend, Toy, seems to have found a way around the loneliness, but Toy has her own secrets that even Anna can't know.

Then comes Sam. When Anna actually meets a boy who is more than just useful, whose family eats dinner together, laughs, and tells stories, the truth about love becomes clear. And she finally learns how it feels to have something to lose—and something to offer. Real, shocking, uplifting, and stunningly lyrical,  Uses for Boys  is a story of breaking down and growing up.

3 Stars 

I received a copy of Uses for Boys courtesy of NetGalley in exchange for a review. I enjoyed Uses for Boys, even tho it scared the crap out of me! Not for myself, mind you, but because I am a mother to girls! It is so easy for girls to lack self worth and self confidence, and like Anna, get caught up in the emotions of when a boy likes you. Anna didn't have a proper role model in her mother of course, and if she had, then maybe her story would be a little different. I just found her sad, and having the damaged reputation she did, it was no wonder she acted out.  Toy was a little easy for me to figure out, maybe because it just seemed too convenient that she was so desirable, but she was another sad case. I was happy that Anna found Sam and his family, and was worried she would corrupt him, but it all worked out in the end. I just pray my girls come to me when they reach that age! ~Mandy

Stealing Harper by Molly Mcadams

Chase Grayson has never been interested in having a relationship that lasts longer than it takes for him and his date to get dressed again. But then he stumbles into a gray-eyed girl whose innocence pours off her, and everything changes. From the minute Harper opens her mouth to let him know just how much he disgusts her, he's hooked.

But a princess deserves a Prince Charming who can make her dreams come true. Not a guy who can turn her life into a nightmare.

All good intentions go out the window when Harper starts to fall for the guy Chase has come to view as a brother. He wanted to protect her by keeping her away, but he can’t stand to see her with anyone else, and he’ll do anything to make her his. But when it comes down to Harper choosing between the two, will Chase have the strength to step back from the girl who has become his whole world if it means she’ll be happy?

Lines will be crossed. Friendships will be put to the test. And hearts will be shattered.

3 Stars

I received a copy of Stealing Harper in exchange for a review.

For some reason, I didn't realize Stealing Harper was the POV of Chase, from Taking Chances. So I read Taking Chances first, so I was in the know. Let's just say, I enjoyed Chase telling the story a little better. Maybe it was because I was a bit in love with Chase (yep, my book boyfriends are awesome) or maybe it was the fact that he was simple compared to Harper. The female mind is a confusing thing, I should know! Harper was a little too whiny, made things more complicated, and I felt like she could've told her 'side' in half the time it took. Chase did an excellent job in Stealing Harper! Of course, his ending was different from Harper's, but still. I really like Molly Mcadams, and think she does an excellent job at the love triangle thing!

~Mandy 

Me Before You by Jojo Moyes

Lou Clark knows lots of things. She knows how many footsteps there are between the bus stop and home. She knows she likes working in The Buttered Bun tea shop and she knows she might not love her boyfriend Patrick.

What Lou doesn't know is she's about to lose her job or that knowing what's coming is what keeps her sane.

Will Traynor knows his motorcycle accident took away his desire to live. He knows everything feels very small and rather joyless now and he knows exactly how he's going to put a stop to that.

What Will doesn't know is that Lou is about to burst into his world in a riot of colour. And neither of them knows they're going to change the other for all time.

5 Stars
Jojo Moyes is now one of my favorite authors. Although the subject matter isn't conventional, it sure touches you where it counts! In Me Before You, Will is a quadriplegic, stuck in his chair and in pain for the last 2 years, after someone on a motorcycle ran him over. He is utterly miserable, a shell of the man he once was. His mother hires Louisa as a sort of caretaker/companion for Will, to try to cheer him up. The two form a friendship, and end up helping each other thru some heavy stuff. I sort of knew what I was getting into when I started this book, but I sure didn't expect to get the ugly cry going! There were a few parts in the book that had a profound effect on me, one being from Will's mothers POV. She mentions her son as a broken man, but that she didn't see him as just the man he had become, instead she saw his whole life when she looked at him. From the moment he entered the world, the toddler, then adolescent, teenager, and grown up, it was all of him she saw when looking at him. Before being a mom, I'm not sure I ever would've been as affected by that particular part, but boy did it hit home now. I haven't been this impacted by a book in awhile! It will probably remain one of my favorites, and will definitely stay with me.

~Mandy

Walking Disaster (Beautiful #2) by Jamie McGuire

Finally, the highly anticipated follow-up to the New York Times bestseller Beautiful Disaster. Can you love someone too much?
Travis Maddox learned two things from his mother before she died: Love hard. Fight harder.

In Walking Disaster, the life of Travis is full of fast women, underground gambling, and violence. But just when he thinks he is invincible, Abby Abernathy brings him to his knees.

Every story has two sides. In Beautiful Disaster, Abby had her say. Now it’s time to see the story through Travis’s eyes.

4 Stars
I received a copy of Walking Disaster courtesy of Netgalley and the publisher.

I read Beautiful Disaster awhile ago, and I'm not sure if it was the other books I'd read before/after, or just my state of mind at the time, but Walking Disaster totally redeemed any misgivings I had! Maybe it was because we got to see everything from Travis' view, I don't know, but it was pretty hot! I didn't understand his rage, or why he was such a man whore, but lord did I still want him as my fictional boyfriend! Travis may be a walking disaster, but good hell, this romance sure is beautiful.

~Mandy

From Ashes by Molly McAdams

When Cassidy Jameson's best friend Tyler took her to Texas with him when he left for college, she was expecting his cousin, their new roommate, to be a Stetson-wearing cowboy since his family owned a ranch; not this incredibly gorgeous guy with a husky Southern drawl that seemed to make the world stop whenever she looked at him. Because of her past, she's only ever trusted two men in her life, Tyler and her dad whom passed away when she was six. But there's something about Gage that draws her to him in a way she can't explain, only problem? He's always telling Tyler that he doesn't want Cassidy living there and sees her as nothing more than his little sister.

Gage Carson was excited his cousin Tyler was coming to live with, and go to college with him. When he'd called to ask if he could bring his friend Cassi with him, Gage didn't care. Gage had heard about this mysterious friend since they were kids and felt like he already knew her. Nothing would prepare him for watching her jump out of Ty's Jeep though. Not only was Cassi the most beautiful girl he'd ever seen, but there was something about her that within seconds of meeting her, made Gage want to protect her, and make her his. Too bad Tyler made it a point to remind Gage on a daily basis that he was dating her and she was completely off limits.

For a year and a half, Gage and Cassidy dance around their feelings for each other as Tyler continues to keep them apart; until one day Tyler unknowingly pushes her right into Gage's arms. With Tyler unable to keep lying to them, they finally start a relationship both have been craving since their first meeting. But when an accident and disaster sends her back to Tyler and California, will Cassidy be able to come face to face with the demons from her past to live a life she and Gage deserve; or will the fact that she once again ran to Tyler be the final push that ends Cassidy and Gage for good?

Recommended for ages 17+ due to sexual situations and language.

3 Stars
I received a copy of From Ashes courtesy of the publisher in exchange of a review.

Cassidy has a screwed up home life, and wouldn't be able to function had it not been for her best friend and life line Tyler. He has saved her in more ways than he probably knows, and decides to take her to Texas with him, when he goes to college. They end up moving in with Gage, and the sparks between Cassi and Gage are instantaneous. The problem? Tyler is in love with Cassidy, and is waiting for her to see that she feels the same towards him.

I really liked From Ashes, but often times felt the story was a little unbelievable. Not that I'm an expert on child abuse, but the extreme levels that Cassidy experienced, even coming into contact with a doctor and teachers, I just can't believe she made it as long as she did in her house, and didn't turn out completely inept with dealing in reality. That aside, the romance was spicy between Cassidy and Gage! I couldn't get enough of him, maybe because he was a true southern boy, or just because he was so hot! The main flaw he had, communication issues, seems to be a general thing between males and females. At the end of the day tho, we ended up with a happy ending, and I do love a fairy tale romance.

~Mandy

Blaze (or Love in the Time of Supervillians) by Laurie Boyle Crompton

Blaze is tired of spending her life on the sidelines, drawing comics and feeling invisible. She's desperate for soccer star Mark to notice her. And when her BFF texts Mark a photo of Blaze in sexy lingerie, it definitely gets his attention. After a hot date in the back of her minivan, Blaze is flying high, but suddenly Mark's feelings seem to have been blasted by a freeze-ray gun, and he dumps her. Blaze gets her revenge by posting a comic strip featuring uber-villain Mark the Shark. Mark then retaliates by posting her "sext" photo, and, overnight, Blaze goes from Super Virgin Girl to Super Slut. That life on the sidelines is looking pretty good right about now...

4 Stars
I received a copy of Blaze courtesy of the publisher in exchange for a review.

BAM! I LOVED Blaze! I'm not one for comics, aside from the Marvel and DC comic cartoons, but damn! Blaze was fun and sassy and unique! POW! I read this book in one sitting, and was laughing several times throughout. The idea of a chick doing comic books based on her experience with a boy, Mark the Shark, was genius! What better way to get back at a man whore? Had one of my friends done something to shame me the way Amanda had done to Blaze, I probably would've shanked the bitch, but I guess it all worked out in the end. Blaze was a true super hero, and some of the girls could learn a thing or two from her. I will definitely look forward to more from Laurie Boyle Crompton!

~Mandy

City of Glass (The Mortal Instruments #3) by Cassandra Clare

To save her mother's life, Clary must travel to the City of Glass, the ancestral home of the Shadowhunters - never mind that entering the city without permission is against the Law, and breaking the Law could mean death. To make things worse, she learns that Jace does not want her there, and Simon has been thrown in prison by the Shadowhunters, who are deeply suspicious of a vampire who can withstand sunlight.

As Clary uncovers more about her family's past, she finds an ally in mysterious Shadowhunter Sebastian. With Valentine mustering the full force of his power to destroy all Shadowhunters forever, their only chance to defeat him is to fight alongside their eternal enemies. But can Downworlders and Shadowhunters put aside their hatred to work together? While Jace realizes exactly how much he's willing to risk for Clary, can she harness her newfound powers to help save the Glass City - whatever the cost?

Love is a mortal sin and the secrets of the past prove deadly as Clary and Jace face down Valentine in the final installment of the New York Times bestselling trilogy The Mortal Instruments.

4 Stars

In the third book in this series, the story comes to a head with a huge battle between Valentine and the Shadowhunters and Downworlders. More information about Jace and Clarissa's past comes to light. Yay! No more incest! The book ends with literally everyone living happily ever after, so why are there books 4 and 5? I am going to find out!

~Kat

18 Things by Jamie Ayres

Can eighteen things save a life?

Olga Gay Worontzoff thinks her biggest problems are an awful name (after her grandmothers of course) and not attending prom with Conner, her best friend and secret crush since kindergarten.

Then Conner is killed in a freak boating accident and Olga feels responsible. When she downs an entire bottle of pills to deal with the emotional pain, her parents force her into counseling. There, her therapist writes a prescription in the form of a life list titled 18 Things. Eighteen quests to complete the year of her eighteenth birthday.

All she has to do is fire-walk, try out for the cheerleading squad, break a world record, and err . . . go on her first date. Good thing Nate, a new hottie in town, enters her life with perfect timing. He brings the fun factor to her list and helps her discover the beauty and strength inside herself, then complicates things by falling in love with her.

But there's more to Olga’s quests than meets the eye and when her therapist reveals a terrifying secret, her world is shaken.

There’s only one thing she knows for certain: her choices won’t just affect her future, but all eternity.

4 Stars
I received a copy of 18 Things courtesy of NetGalley and the publisher.

18 things is the 5th or 6th book I've read from Curiosity Quills, and I have loved every one! As with all the books before it from this publisher, 18 Things is unique and original. Olga experiences her first broken heart, in the form of her best friend dying, and her being unable to save him. And before she gets to tell him that she loves him. Olga goes thru a year of ups and downs, with the saving grace coming in the form of Nate.

I just loved the characters in 18 Things! They were real, had a sense of humor, and I of course appreciated the Star Wars references. The grief Olga experienced after losing her best friend Connor broke my heart, but the idea of the list was a great way to help her heal, and I enjoyed the variety of ways that were on it. I guessed there was a twist at the end, but I was questioning my guess until the last chapter. Let me be clear tho, this book wasn't predictable! I saw there was possibly a sequel, and I'm really hoping that's the case!

~ Mandy

The Venetian Affair by Dana Mitchell

When cool, reserved Helene Stoddart dons a mask in magical Venice, it changes her life forever. Her identity protected, she succumbs to a night of wild lovemaking with gorgeous Italian, Gabriel Venier. Convinced she'll never see Gabriel again, Helen returns home to Australia, where an old family scandal sees her hunted by the paparazzi. Then Gabriel arrives, looking for the mystery woman he can't forget. But the Helen he encounters is withdrawn, arctic, nothing like the gorgeous, sensual woman seared into his memory. Despite Helen's reluctance, Gabriel makes time for them to get to know each other, and for slow, delicious seduction …

3 Stars
I received a copy of The Venetian Affair courtesy of the publisher in exchange for a review.

There is just something about books set in Australia that snag me from the synopsis! The Venetian Affair was no different. Helen is in Italy, on tour singing with a couple girls and ends up performing at a club that Gabriel happens to spot her in. He just has to know her and have her! Helen has a secret tho, one that she doesn't want Gabriel to find out about, so she agrees to spend the night with him, under one condition- she gets to keep her mask on and the lights off. Sparks fly of course, and neither of them is the same after. Gabriel ends up on a mission to find Helen, and luckily he does, back in Australia!
I could in no way put myself in Helen's shoes, and wondered about the way she handled things at times, but I really liked the way her and Gabriel connected! The chemistry between the two was volatile at times and scorching at others, which I really appreciated. And who doesn't love a HEA? I finished this one with a smile on my face!

~Mandy

Undressed (The Manhattanites #1) by Avery Aster

Content Warning: due to graphic sex scenes, strong language, suggestive themes, mature humor, and just about everything your mother ever told you not to do--including wearing a see-through dress, this novel is for adults only.

Milan's notorious playboy, Massimo Tittoni, seems to have everything--Lamborghinis, exotic women, palaces throughout Europe and business success. Ramping up his fabric company to go global with a new apparel brand, he ruthlessly stops supplying fabrics to the American client who inspired the collection. But once they meet, what's he willing to give to get her in his bed?

Upper East Side designer Lex Easton will be damned if she'll let an Italian stud muffin knock her down. So what if she named her favorite vibrator after him. With Fashion Week approaching, she'll do whatever it takes to secure the fabrics she needs to become the next Diane von Furstenburg-- even sleep with her rival. But when she arrives in Europe the paparazzi chronicles her every move and she finds herself in a situation never imagined. Lex’s Louboutins stilettos are dug in deep to win this war. All’s fair in love and fashion!

Avery Aster's super-glossy debut novel is loaded with passionate escapism, pitting American ambition against Italian tradition. Erotic romance fans who appreciate extended sex scenes, witty banter and glamour mustn't miss Undressed.

Inside Scoop: Though the hero and heroine remain monogamous, their Prada-wearing friends indulge in a ménage a trois and other fashionable sexual fun and games.

ABOUT THE MANHATTANITES:

It's a series of full length novels focusing on relationships. Each book may be read as a stand alone and features a HEA w/ closure for the couple's story. If you've enjoyed TV shows like Girls (HBO), Dirty Sexy Money (ABC), and The Bold & the Beautiful (CBS) then you'll love this series. Avery's characters are over the top. They have raunchy sex, speak their minds and the plots are twisted. (In a good way!)

4 Stars
I received a copy of Undressed courtesy of the author and publisher in exchange for a review.

When I received an email from Avery Aster herself, asking me if I could handle a book that contained scenes so hot they were scorching and panty dropping, I replied with an enthusiastic "OF COURSE!" She even went as far as to almost call me out on my reads of late being sort of 'vanilla' and more HBO vs Cinemax. I couldn't agree more. So I took on her book, bearing in mind I was going to be experiencing a more raw version of Sex and the City. Well, let me tell you, Carrie and Big have NOTHING on Lex and Massimo!

Undressed delivers funny, vibrant, witty characters, not to mention the strong and sexy female roles. The story, fun banter, and make you blush sex scenes held my attention, and for that, I gave it 4 stars. There were a few moments that seemed a little inconsistent, and not very believable, but for the most part, the hotness of the book made up for it. I'm eagerly awaiting the next installment!

~Mandy

Spellbound by Emmie Dark

Belle is a modern-day witch who's had a bad run with men. And she's not that good at the magic stuff, either. When her boyfriend leaves her feeling undesirable, Belle conjures up a night of perfect passion with a phantom version of her super gorgeous neighbour Nicholas Marchetti. But after an amazing night, Belle realises it was the real Nick. And when Nick discovers Belle's powers, he is confused and wary. And to top it all off, it seems someone is using magic to try to keep the would-be lovers apart.

Angst, lust – and Aunty Gertrude – all play a part in this sizzling erotic romance that begins and ends in the bedroom.

For those who like their romance hot, hot, hot!

3 Stars
I received a copy of Spellbound courtesy of Netgalley and the publisher.

What a cute book! Belle is a witch, but not much of one. When she attempts a spell to conjure a phantom man that looks like her hot neighbor Nick, it doesn't turn out like she expected. Although it brings her and Nick together for real, there still seems to be some force keeping them apart. You'd never guess from from the sparks those two were creating! Holy moly, the bedroom scenes were HOT! Belle and Nick were so sweet and cute together, and when they finally figured out what Aunt Gertrude was telling them, things started to fall into place. I just wish the story hadn't been so short.

~Mandy

City of Ashes (The Mortal Instruments Book Two) by Cassandra Clare

Clary Fray just wishes that her life would go back to normal. But what's normal when you're a demon-slaying Shadowhunter, your mother is in a magically induced coma, and you can suddenly see Downworlders like werewolves, vampires, and faeries? If Clary left the world of the Shadowhunters behind, it would mean more time with her best friend, Simon, who's becoming more than a friend. But the Shadowhunting world isn't ready to let her go — especially her handsome, infuriating, newfound brother, Jace. And Clary's only chance to help her mother is to track down rogue Shadowhunter Valentine, who is probably insane, certainly evil — and also her father.

To complicate matters, someone in New York City is murdering Downworlder children. Is Valentine behind the killings — and if he is, what is he trying to do? When the second of the Mortal Instruments, the Soul-Sword, is stolen, the terrifying Inquisitor arrives to investigate and zooms right in on Jace. How can Clary stop Valentine if Jace is willing to betray everything he believes in to help their father?

In this breathtaking sequel to City of Bones, Cassandra Clare lures her readers back into the dark grip of New York City's Downworld, where love is never safe and power becomes the deadliest temptation.

4 Stars

Wow. This story has gotten way better in the second book. There's still some creepy incest lingering in the air, however it is a gentle breeze that can be shrugged off. There is a lot of action in this book, plenty of new demons, new magical items, and new plot twists. We meet a few new characters and they are fully developed by the end of this installment. I have to say it is truly worth getting through the mundaneness of the first book to experience this one. Again, the language is beautiful. Be careful of some 1 star reviews, they tend to misquote the text. That being said, her imagery is not contradictory, it is eloquently descriptive.

~Kat

Love Unrehearsed (Love #2) by Tina Reber

There is no rehearsal for true love.

When A-list film actor Ryan Christensen ducked into her pub to escape his screaming fans, never in a million years did Taryn Mitchell think her life was about to change forever. But now, eight months later, after a whirlwind romance, Taryn wakes up in Ryan’s Hollywood hotel room to find a diamond to die for on her left ring finger—and her face splashed across the cover of every gossip magazine.

Ryan’s very public proposal is catnip to the tabloids, his management team is worried, and Taryn must figure out how a small town girl like her fits into his glittering world. What does it take to make a relationship work amidst telephoto lenses, daily on-set temptations, and jealous fans who will stop at nothing to keep you from walking down the aisle with the man of your dreams?

With no script to follow and no chance for a dress rehearsal, Taryn and Ryan will be forced to take the plunge and risk everything to make their love last.

4 Stars
I received a copy of Love Unrehearsed courtesy of the publisher in exchange for a review.

I got a copy of Love unrehearsed awhile ago, and just barely got around to reading it. I had so many other books lined up ahead of it, and it took a back seat. Then my reading slump happened. So, I picked up Love Unrehearsed in hopes it would bring me out of the funk, and holy hell did it ever! I devoured this book! Even though Ryan and Taryn's story wasn't in the forefront of my mind, Love Unscripted was so good, it stuck with me. There are books I read, and within 5 mins I forget the characters names. Seriously. So it was like I read the Love series back to back, that's how reeled in I was! I love Taryn and Ryan's love affair, and how they deal with all the stress that comes from Ryan's status as an A-list celeb. Not to mention, the chemistry between them is AH-MAZE-ING! If it's true, and there is a Love #3 based on Marie and Mike, I'm so in! Tina Reber has made it onto my favorite list for sure!

~Mandy

City of Bones (The Mortal Instruments Book One) by Cassandra Clare

When fifteen-year-old Clary Fray heads out to the Pandemonium Club in New York City, she hardly expects to witness a murder -- much less a murder committed by three teenagers covered with strange tattoos and brandishing bizarre weapons. Then the body disappears into thin air. It's hard to call the police when the murderers are invisible to everyone else and when there is nothing -- not even a smear of blood -- to show that a boy has died. Or was he a boy?

This is Clary's first meeting with the Shadowhunters, warriors dedicated to ridding the earth of demons. It's also her first encounter with Jace, a Shadowhunter who looks a little like an angel and acts a lot like a jerk. Within twenty-four hours Clary is pulled into Jace's world with a vengeance, when her mother disappears and Clary herself is attacked by a demon. But why would demons be interested in ordinary mundanes like Clary and her mother? And how did Clary suddenly get the Sight? The Shadowhunters would like to know. . . .

Exotic and gritty, exhilarating and utterly gripping, Cassandra Clare's ferociously entertaining fantasy takes readers on a wild ride that they will never want to end.

3 Stars

This book is about a girl who is lied to her entire life by her mother who is trying to protect her. It took me 300 pages to get really into the book and then about 150 pages later I said, you've got to be f****** kidding me because the story I was hoping would unfold, the love story that was making this book interesting, died with a plot twist. I will say the book is written pretty well, the descriptive language paints a beautiful picture of an enchanting world that I will continue to explore with the second book in this series. Here's to hoping the characters are developed a bit more thoroughly.

~Kat

Memoirs of an Imaginary Friend by Matthew Dicks

Budo is Max's imaginary friend. But though only Max can see him, he is real. He and the other imaginary friends watch over their children until the day comes that the child stops imagining them. And then they're gone. Budo has lasted a lot longer than most imaginary friends - four years - because Max needs him more. His parents argue about sending him to a special school. But Max is perfectly happy if everything is just kept the way it is, and nothing out of the ordinary happens. Unfortunately, something out of the ordinary is going to happen - and then he'll need Budo more than ever...

4 Stars

I really enjoyed this book. I was lucky to win an advanced readers copy. Written from the perspective of the imaginary friend, you are taken on an adventure to experience the life of a special needs child. This book offers excitement in its simplistic writing that I have not had the pleasure of finding in another novel. It is a beautiful story of the bond between a child and their imaginary friend and how children grow and change and eventually outgrow them.

~Kat

Dinner with a Vampire (The Dark Heroine #1) by Abigail Gibbs

Violet Lee is the sole living witness to a horrific pre-dawn mass murder in Trafalgar Square, London.

But before she can alert the authorities, she is taken by the group of murderers, who, to her shock, are vampires. Kidnapped, Violet is forced to live among them, for they've discover she is the daughter of the UK's Secretary of State for Defense… who has been secretly dealing with the vampires for years.

Now a pawn in a game of politics between humans and vampires, Violet begins to doubt her allegiance, especially when she begins to fall for Prince Kaspar, the heir to the throne of the vampire world, as well as his best friend, Fabian. Swept into a complex love triangle, will Violet leave her newfound life, or return to the human world?

4 Stars
I received a copy of The Dark Heroine from the publisher in exchange for a review.

After reading a few of the reviews for this book, I was a little hesitant to start it. I mean, 2 star ratings don't really say "READ THIS BOOK NOW!" do they?! I guess I'm easily entertained, because I really enjoyed this book, and want the next one to be out NOW! Sure, there were some discrepancies, and maybe some gaps that could have been filled in, as well as parts that were added for maybe shock value. But I was expecting that, since my copy was an uncorrected proof.
The Dark Heroine reminded me a little of Discovery of Witches, one of my favorite vampire books. Violet is sassy and outspoken, but has a good heart and is sure in her beliefs of what right and wrong are. The thing I liked about her tho, is she was willing to see the other side of things. Kaspar is quite the dick, but Violet figures out the reasons behind his behavior, and he's soon not so bad. I look forward to the next book, where I'm sure we'll learn more about the other dimensions, as well as the rest of the prophesy of the Heroines.

~Mandy

Wonder by R.J. Palacio

I won't describe what I look like. Whatever you're thinking, it's probably worse.

August (Auggie) Pullman was born with a facial deformity that prevented him from going to a mainstream school—until now. He's about to start 5th grade at Beecher Prep, and if you've ever been the new kid then you know how hard that can be. The thing is Auggie's just an ordinary kid, with an extraordinary face. But can he convince his new classmates that he's just like them, despite appearances?

R. J. Palacio has written a spare, warm, uplifting story that will have readers laughing one minute and wiping away tears the next. With wonderfully realistic family interactions (flawed, but loving), lively school scenes, and short chapters, Wonder is accessible to readers of all levels.

5 Stars
What a WONDERful book! I'd heard so many good things about this YA book, and had to check it out. As a mom, I can't even fathom what was going thru Isabel Pullman's mind when August was born with the severity of deformities he had. Granted, this is a fictional book, but it happens to be some people's realities.
"The universe hasn't been kind to August Pullman" was an understatement made by his friend Jack. No joke. Auggie's odds were 1 in 4 million. 27 surgeries before age 4. And a life time of horrified looks from strangers. How anyone keeps from tearing up during this read is beyond me. I found myself extremely grateful for my "perfect" babies, and wondering how exactly you can teach your children to be compassionate, as well as "kinder than necessary" like Summer, when there are so many Julian's? Everyone should read this book, if not just for the fact that it humbles you, as well as gives an excellent message.

~Mandy

Enslaved (Enslaved Trilogy #1) by Shoshanna Evers

From a red-hot erotica writer comes an original eBook—a sensual romp across the playgrounds of the unbelievably rich and extremely sexy.Elisabeth Anderson has seen Trevor and his friends at the infamous Manhattan BDSM club WhipperSnapper, where everyone calls them the BAD Boys, for “Billionaire Arrogant Doms.” The BAD Boys—Trevor Brooks, Marc Wilde, and Roman Chase—are aptly named; they’ve made money hand over fist due to their aggressive investing at the Brooks Wilde Chase Fund. These guys are so rich they can get away with anything, or so the rumors go.

Trevor gives Elisabeth full reign of his estate in Westchester, letting her do as she pleases. He has only two rules. Rule One: she must obey and submit to him while she is living in his house. Rule Two: always answer the blue cell phone. She’s happy to oblige, because being with Trevor makes her want to obey, to love him the way he seems to be falling for her. But Elisabeth’s never been good at being the quiet sub; she's feisty and gets off on the punishments more than she does by pleasing Trevor.

Elizabeth can’t submit to Trevor the way he needs her to, so his friend and business partner (and fellow BAD Boy) Roman takes her in hand. But love triangles can have sharp edges...and somebody’s bound to get hurt.

3 Stars
I received a galley of Enslaved in exchange for a review.

Enslaved starts out with Elisabeth leaving Gregory, the Dom she's had for 3 years, and traveling to Trevor, a possible new Dom. She's a bit nervous, and doesn't quite know what to expect, since Trevor and his two buddies have somewhat of a reputation at the BDSM club WhipperSnapper.

Enslaved was actually pretty tasteful, for an erotica novel. Not every sex scene was described in complete detail, leaving one to use their imagination. Nice change if you ask me. The love story that develops between Elisabeth and Trevor isn't conventional, but it sure is sweet, esp after Trevor has to make a decision on how Elisabeth needs to adjust her attitude. I look forward to reading Enamored, which is the second in the trilogy, about Marc, and of course the third about Roman.

~Mandy

Entangled (Spellbound #1) by Nikki Jefford

Two months after dying, seventeen-year-old witch Graylee Perez wakes up in her twin sister Charlene’s body.

Until Gray finds a way back inside her own body, she’s stuck being Charlene every twenty-hour hours. Her sister has left precise instructions on how Gray should dress and behave. Looking like a prep isn’t half as bad as hanging out with Charlene’s snotty friends and gropey boyfriend.

The “normals” of McKinley High might be quick to write her behavior off as post-traumatic stress, but warlock Raj McKenna is the only person who suspects Gray has returned from the dead.

Now Gray has to solve the mystery of her death and resurrection and disentangle herself from Charlene’s body before she disappears for good.

***Entangled is a young adult paranormal fantasy romance suitable for ages 15 and up.***

3.5 Stars

I won this eBook through NetGalley. Gray is a teenage girl dealing with the misfortune of having an identical twin with NOTHING in common. Oh, and they are both powerful witches. I did not read any reviews before I read the book and I didn't read the synopsis either. In doing so, I had a "What?!?!" moment and fell deeply under its spell. This book is an easy read and a great first in the upcoming Spellbound series. I enjoyed every minute of it and had a hard time putting it down.

~Kat

Waking up Married by Mira Lyn Kelly

Her first thought: "Who are you?"
It's the morning after her cousin's bachelorette party in Vegas and Megan Scott wakes up with the mother of all hangovers. Even worse, she's in a stranger's penthouse having woken up with something else as well - a funny, arrogant, sexy...husband!

Up until now, finding even a boyfriend had seemed impossible - been there, got the broken heart, sworn off men for good. Then a few martinis with Carter...no, Connor Reed and she's gone from first meet to marriage in one night!

Megan wants a lawyer. But Connor's shocking bombshell?

"I don't want a divorce."

3 Stars
I received a copy of Waking up Married courtesy of NetGalley and the publisher.

Megan is in Vegas for her cousins bachelorette party/wedding, when she meets Connor. They end up hanging out all night, flirting, gambling, and of course, getting sloshed. Come morning, Megan wakes up ill, to find out that she blacked out the night before and got married to Connor! Oops! Connor convinces Megan to stay married and try it out for a 3 month trial, hoping he could prove to her that they are a great partnership and can give each other what the other needs out of life- a family.

I enjoy the occasional romance, and with Harlequin's KISS line of books, I enjoy them more! The stories are updated, modern, short and sweet. Of course they're as believable as a fairy tale, but that's the reason anyone reads a romance, right? For the fairy tale aspect! While reading Waking up Married, I was of course rooting for Connor and Megan to make it, as well as thinking "Damn girl! You got LUCKY! He has the looks, the physique, and don't forget the money!" What more could you want or need? In a romance novel of course. I love a happy ending.

~Mandy

The Water Witch (Fairwick Chronicles #2) by Juliet Dark (Carol Goodman)

Perfect for fans of Deborah Harkness and Elizabeth Kostova,The Water Watch is a breathtakingly sexy and atmospheric new novel of ancient folklore, passionate love, and thrilling magic.

After casting out a dark spirit, Callie McFay, a professor of gothic literature, has at last restored a semblance of calm to her rambling Victorian house. But in the nearby thicket of the Honeysuckle Forest, and in the currents of the rushing Undine River, more trouble is stirring. . . .

The enchanted town of Fairwick’s dazzling mix of mythical creatures has come under siege from the Grove: a sinister group of witches determined to banish the fey back to their ancestral land. With factions turning on one another, all are cruelly forced to take sides. Callie’s grandmother, a prominent Grove member, demands her granddaughter’s compliance, but half-witch/half-fey Callie can hardly betray her friends and colleagues at the college. 

To stave off disaster, Callie enlists Duncan Laird, an alluring seductive academic who cultivates her vast magical potential, but to what end? Deeply conflicted, Callie struggles to save her beloved Fairwick, dangerously pushing her extraordinary powers to the limit—risking all, even the needs of her own passionate heart.

4 Stars

I won this ARC from NetGalley and boy am I glad they chose me to win!! Juliet Dark (Carol Goodman) does it again. In a world where all paranormal creatures are attempting to coexist peacefully, once again power hungry tyrants and biased old witches want to ruin it for everyone. The love story between Liam and Callie continues, but unlike the first novel, it is not the main focus of the story. Don't get it twisted though. There are some steamy scenes that made me blush just like book 1. This time we learn more about Callie's past and the witch/fairy she is meant to be. We get a sneak peak into how powerful she will become and how warped her grandmother truly is. It is no wonder her parents took the steps necessary to protect Callie for all these years. We also get to learn more about the other endearing characters from the first novel. Goodman continues her to enhance her writing style with bold imagery and intellectually driven dialogue. I would highly recommend this novel/series to anyone who enjoys the genre.

~Kat

Notes from Ghost Town by Kate Ellison

They say first love never dies...

From critically acclaimed author Kate Ellison comes a heartbreaking mystery of mental illness, unspoken love, and murder. When sixteen-year-old artist Olivia Tithe is visited by the ghost of her first love, Lucas Stern, it’s only through scattered images and notes left behind that she can unravel the mystery of his death.

There’s a catch: Olivia has gone colorblind, and there’s a good chance she’s losing her mind completely—just like her mother did. How else to explain seeing (and falling in love all over again with) someone who isn’t really there?

With the murder trial looming just nine days away, Olivia must follow her heart to the truth, no matter how painful. It’s the only way she can save herself.

4 stars
I recieved a copy of Notes from Ghost Town courtesy of NetGalley and the publisher.

Olivia is a 16 yr old artist from Florida, but attending school in Michigan. Her best friend, Stern, is a piano prodigy, as well as one of her mothers students. Right before returning back to school at the end of summer, Olivia and Stern share a kiss that causes her to go colorblind, and not long afterward, her whole life is tossed upside down, and changed forever.

I don't even know what to say about this YA book! I absolutely loved it! There was something so sweet about this murder/mystery, and the characters, I couldn't help but shed a few tears while reading. My heart ached for Olivia, not only losing her best friend and one she loved, but her mom AND her ability to see color. She was so passionate about painting and became clorblind! That would be like taking the legs off a dancer, a tongue from a chef, or the eyes from a reader. On top of it all, her dad is getting remarried, she has to drop out of school, and move from the house she grew up in and loved. Not to mention she starts wondering if her mothers schizophrenia is now rubbing off on her, since she is seeing Sterns ghost. Aside from not being able to be with Stern, the end of the story is a happy one, and I would recommend this one to anyone that is looking for a YA book that stands out.

~Mandy

Such Wicked Intent (The Apprenticeship of Victor Frankenstein #2) by Kenneth Oppel

Devotion turns deadly in this second Gothic thriller from Kenneth Oppel.When does obsession become madness? Tragedy has forced sixteen-year-old Victor Frankenstein to swear off alchemy forever. He burns the Dark Library. He vows he will never dabble in the dark sciences again—just as he vows he will no longer covet Elizabeth, his brother’s betrothed.

     If only these things were not so tempting.

     When he and Elizabeth discover a portal into the spirit world, they cannot resist. Together with Victor’s twin, Konrad, and their friend Henry, the four venture into a place of infinite possibilities where power and passion reign. But as they search for the knowledge to raise the dead, they unknowingly unlock a darkness from which they may never return.

4 Stars

In Such Wicked Intent, we go deeper into the psyche of the young Victor Frankenstein. Kenneth Oppel does an amazing job of pulling the reader into Victor's mind. In the first book, we got to see only a glimpse of the desire for power, but in this sequel, we really get to see how far Victor will go to become omnipotent. There is action, suspense, and romance all sprinkled with a desperation to be reunited with a lost brother, friend, and lover. The story begins with the family grieving the loss of Konrad. As the story continues, Victor becomes intrigued by the possibility of bringing Konrad back from the dead through the use of occult rituals. Needless to say, things don't go exactly as planned, and a monster is born. I definitely recommend diving into this story. It will be hard to come up for air.

~Kat

Hourglass by Myra McEntire

One hour to rewrite the past . . .

For seventeen-year-old Emerson Cole, life is about seeing what isn't there: swooning Southern Belles; soldiers long forgotten; a haunting jazz trio that vanishes in an instant. Plagued by phantoms since her parents' death, she just wants the apparitions to stop so she can be normal. She's tried everything, but the visions keep coming back.

So when her well-meaning brother brings in a consultant from a secretive organization called the Hourglass, Emerson's willing to try one last cure. But meeting Michael Weaver may not only change her future, it may also change her past.

Who is this dark, mysterious, sympathetic guy, barely older than Emerson herself, who seems to believe every crazy word she says? Why does an electric charge seem to run through the room whenever he's around? And why is he so insistent that he needs her help to prevent a death that never should have happened?

4 stars
I absolutely adored Hourglass and can't wait to read Timepiece! I love the concept of the rips, and after seeing Back to the Future, who isn't intrigued with time travel? Granted, Hourglass wasn't about romping around the past/future the same way Marty McFly did, but it also added extra elements, such as people having extra abilities! Like the X-Men! I thought the 'forbidden fruit' relationship between Emerson and Michael was a tad hokey at times, and she sure did find him a bit hotter than was necessary, but nonetheless, it was swoon worthy. I'm eager to find out what happens with all the characters in Timepiece, and am going to be adding Myra McEntire to my list of awesome authors!

~Mandy

The Secret of Ella and Micha by Jessica Sorensen

Ella and Micha have been best friends since they were kids. But one tragic night shatters their friendship and their lives forever.

Ella used to be a rule-breaker with fiery attitude who wore her heart on her sleeve. But she left everything behind when she went to college and transformed into someone that follows the rules, keeps everything together, and hides all her problems. But now it's summer break and she has nowhere else to go but home.

Ella fears everything she worked so hard to bury might resurface, especially with Micha living right next door. If Micha tries to tempt the old her back, she knows that it will be hard to resist.

Micha is sexy, smart, confident, and can get under Ella’s skin like no one else can. He knows everything about her, including her darkest secrets. And he’s determined to bring his best friend, and the girl he loves back, no matter what it takes.

(New Adult Contemporary)
*Mature Content** Recommended for ages 17+ due to sexual situations and language.

4 stars
I received a copy of The Secret of Ella and Micha courtesy of NetGalley and the publisher.

Wow! Talk about two screwed up individuals! How could I not pity Ella and Micha while reading this book? The two of them were neighbors from childhood, became best friends, and eventually fell in love, but not without some serious bumps in the road! The shit hole town they grew up in is bad enough, but parental abandonment takes the cake. I fell in love with the characters and couldn't stop reading their story, hoping they would get a happy ending and overcome their situations. Jessica Sorensen has written some amazing books, and definitely one to keep an eye on!

~Mandy

Carnival of Souls by Melissa Marr

In a city of daimons, rigid class lines separate the powerful from the power-hungry. And at the heart of The City is the Carnival of Souls, where both murder and pleasure are offered up for sale. Once in a generation, the carnival hosts a deadly competition that allows every daimon a chance to join the ruling elite. Without the competition, Aya and Kaleb would both face bleak futures--if for different reasons. For each of them, fighting to the death is the only way to try to live.

All Mallory knows of The City is that her father--and every other witch there--fled it for a life in exile in the human world. Instead of a typical teenage life full of friends and maybe even a little romance, Mallory scans quiet streets for threats, hides herself away, and trains to be lethal. She knows it's only a matter of time until a daimon finds her and her father, so she readies herself for the inevitable. While Mallory possesses little knowledge of The City, every inhabitant of The City knows of her. There are plans for Mallory, and soon she, too, will be drawn into the decadence and danger that is the Carnival of Souls.

From Melissa Marr, bestselling author of the Wicked Lovely series and Graveminder, comes a brand-new tale of lush secrets, dark love, and the struggle to forge one's own destiny.

4 Stars

Melissa Marr strikes again! This first in the new series is awesome. Thank you Five Finger Death Punch for inspiring this amazing book. The world Marr creates is intriguing, dangerous, provocative, and spellbinding. This book has a character for each type of character lover. Mallory is the innocent/sheltered girl. Aya is the tough women's lib chic. Kaleb is the hero/total badass. Belias is the conflicted one. Adam is the overprotective father. Evelyn is the evil witch. And that doesn't even scratch the surface of the many characters in this book that have a strong presence. I really can't wait to see how this story unfolds.

~Kat

A Perfect Proposal by Katie Fforde

Sophie Apperly's family has never taken her seriously. Fiercely academic, they see her more practical skills as frivolous whilst constantly taking advantage of her. So when her best friend Milly invites her over to New York, she jumps at the chance. It'll do her ungrateful family good to do without her for a while. What s more, she's on a quest America holds the key to solving her family's financial woes, even if they don't deserve her help.

From the moment Sophie hits the bright lights of Manhattan she's determined to enjoy every minute of her big adventure. So when an evening at an art gallery throws her into the path of Matilda, a spirited old lady who invites her to Connecticut for Thanksgiving, Sophie willingly accepts, much to the dismay of Matilda's grandson Luke. Undeniably attractive but infuriatingly arrogant, he is very protective of his grandmother and seems to doubt Sophie's motives for befriending her. No match for the formidable Matilda, he eventually admits defeat, but first he has a proposal to make. He'll help Sophie in her quest to save her family from financial ruin if she repays the favour. But just what does she have to do in return...?

4 stars
I received a copy of A Perfect Proposal courtesy of NetGalley and the publisher.

Sophie is completely taken advantage of by her family in England. They don't appreciate her for being frugal and helping out whenever they need her to, and since they're 'academics' they don't feel like she measures up to them. Silly Sophie, for being their door mat! Luckily for her, she has a best friend in New York that convinces Sophie to come visit and work as a nanny for a month. So Sophie heads across the pond, only to have her plans changed once she gets to America. Along comes Matilda and Luke, and now Sophie has a different set of plans...

I thought A Perfect Proposal was the greatest in chick lit! I absolutely LOVE British novels, and this one was no exception. I want to be friends with Sophie, and have her make me fabulous shabby chic clothes! I'm not sure how realistic Matilda taking Sophie under her wing was, but it worked out, since Sophie was an honest gal. It doesn't hurt that with Matilda comes her protective watch dog grandson Luke. I was expecting the outcome with Sophie and Luke (chick lit read, after all) but I felt like the end was a little rushed. I'm glad I was able to read this one tho, it was just what I needed for a winter pick me up.

~Mandy

Endlessly (Paranormalcy #3) by Kiersten White

Evie's paranormal past keeps coming back to haunt her. A new director at the International Paranormal Containment Agency wants to drag her back to headquarters. The Dark Faerie Queen is torturing humans in her poisonous realm. And supernatural creatures keep insisting that Evie is the only one who can save them from a mysterious, perilous fate.

4 Stars

First things first. Do not let the second book discourage you from reading the final book. What a ride! Welcome back sassy Evie, frustrating Reth, loyal Lend, and all the rest of them. The conversational banter is quite a fun read. There is so much action in this book that taking a day off to go sight seeing was actually painful. Almost every question you have is answered in the final book, except one, which I'm not going to say since it would be a spoiler. Have fun if you decide to read this series. It was entertaining.

~Kat

Supernaturally (Paranormalcy #2) by Kiersten White

Evie finally has the normal life she’s always longed for. But she’s shocked to discover that being ordinary can be...kind of boring. Just when Evie starts to long for her days at the International Paranormal Containment Agency, she’s given a chance to work for them again. Desperate for a break from all the normalcy, she agrees.

But as one disastrous mission leads to another, Evie starts to wonder if she made the right choice. And when Evie’s faerie ex-boyfriend Reth appears with devastating revelations about her past, she discovers that there’s a battle brewing between the faerie courts that could throw the whole supernatural world into chaos. The prize in question? Evie herself.

So much for normal.

3 Stars

I'm on the fence about this one. It started off exciting and I thought, "Okay, here we go." And then it never really happened. It was more of an unnecessary sequel to give the reader more time with the main characters. Evie wasn't quite as sassy or funny in this one. She was actually a bit of a whiner. And then there is a big revelation in the last 20 pages which is really the only significant bit of new information. The book had a nice and neat happy ending and I am not compelled to grab the last one because "I just have to see what happens next!". However, I am going to anyway in the hopes that the final book will pick up the pace again.

~Kat

Paranormalcy (Paranormalcy #1) by Kiersten White

Evie's always thought of herself as a normal teenager, even though she works for the International Paranormal Containment Agency, her ex-boyfriend is a faerie, she's falling for a shape-shifter, and she's the only person who can see through paranormals' glamours.

But Evie's about to realize that she may very well be at the center of a dark faerie prophecy promising destruction to all paranormal creatures.

So much for normal.

4 Stars

Paranormalcy was actually quite good. It's a story about a girl who grew up serving "the system" only to find out she is really being governed by it. White portrays the main character, Evie, as a tough chic in hot pink stiletto boots. This I loved, because I truly believe you can be tough and girlie at the same time. She also has quite a bit of sass and a good sense of humor which is shared since the book is written in first person. The story was fast paced; it never got boring. Werewolves, vampires, and fairies, oh my! Throw in a hag, a few trolls, and a mermaid and you have a recipe for fun filled entertainment. The language was definitely young adult which made it a very speedy read, but it never took away from the story. I would recommend this to anyone interested in a fun paranormal read.

~Kat

Release Me (Stark Trilogy #1) by J. Kenner

For fans of Fifty Shades of Grey and Bared to You comes an erotic, emotionally charged romance between a powerful man who’s never heard “no” and a fiery woman who says “yes” on her own terms.

He was the one man I couldn’t avoid. And the one man I couldn’t resist.

Damien Stark could have his way with any woman. He was sexy, confident, and commanding: Anything he wanted, he got. And what he wanted was me.

Our attraction was unmistakable, almost beyond control, but as much as I ached to be his, I feared the pressures of his demands. Submitting to Damien meant I had to bare the darkest truth about my past—and risk breaking us apart.

But Damien was haunted, too. And as our passion came to obsess us both, his secrets threatened to destroy him—and us—forever.

Release Me is an erotic romance intended for mature audiences.

3 1/2 stars
I received a copy of Release Me courtesy of NetGalley and the publisher

Nikki is new to LA, and one of her first assignments of her new job is to snag Damien Stark's interest in helping fund her company's new product. Although Nikki had a brief encounter with Damien 6 yrs ago, she's sure he doesn't remember her, but oh does she remember him. How could she not?! She describes him as a Roman God, and the images popping thru my head were along the lines of the same men I pictured as Christian Grey! Yowza! Lucky for Nikki, Mr Stark is very interested, at least in her. The two explore their passion, as well as open up to each other with some of their deep, dark, buried secrets.

Release Me has been compared to Fifty Shades of Grey and Bared to You, and for good reason! I was a little hesitant to start this trilogy, because I wasn't sure I wanted to read another copy cat book, with just the characters names changed. And although there are similarities between the books, Release Me holds its own! I want to find out Damien's big bad secret (although I'm pretty sure I know what some of it is) and see where Nikki and Damien grow. When we leave Release Me, the two are enjoying the carnal attentions of the other, but a new threat looms just as the closing music cues. (yes, I sometimes get closing music in my head when I know I'm at the end of a book. Blame the audio books for that one) I can't wait to read the next book!

~Mandy

Darkest Mercy (Wicked Lovely #5) by Melissa Marr

The Summer King is missing; the Dark Court is bleeding; and a stranger walks the streets of Huntsdale, his presence signifying the deaths of powerful fey.

Aislinn tends to the Summer Court, searching for her absent king and yearning for Seth. Torn between his new queen and his old love, Keenan works from afar to strengthen his court against the coming war. Donia longs for fiery passion even as she coolly readies the Winter Court for battle. And Seth, sworn brother of the Dark King and heir to the High Queen, is about to make a mistake that could cost his life.

Love, despair, and betrayal ignite the Faery Courts, and in the final conflict, some will win...and some will lose everything.


The thrilling conclusion to Melissa Marr's New York Times bestselling Wicked Lovely series will leave readers breathless.

4 Stars

In the final installment of the Wicked Lovely series, everything comes to a head. There is action and there is a lot of it. This book had me on the edge of my seat and I didn't want to put it down. Just like the rest of the books, I really enjoyed it and it thoroughly entertained me. It ended in the way I was hoping it would and it did have a little bit of a twist, which is always fun. I highly recommend this series to anyone interested in YA Fantasy.

~Kat

The Stranger (Just One Night part 1)

Kasie knows who she’s supposed to be. But one passionate night with a mysterious stranger will teach her who she wants to be.

You should sleep with a stranger, her best friend whispers in her ear as they take to Vegas for one last pre-wedding fling. Despite her best intentions, when Kasie Fitzgerald enters the casino and sees him, a man whose tailored clothes belied a powerful, even dangerous, presence, she loses herself to the moment. Maybe it’s the dress, much shorter than she’d ever normally wear, or the Scotch, but something makes her give herself over to him more completely than she's ever done with a man before.

It was supposed to be just one night. But right as she’s thinking she wants more, he shows up in her office with an agenda. As the billionaire CEO of a company that’s engaged her PR firm, his demands just became her reality...and he desires so much more than just some attention in the boardroom.

3 stars
I received a copy of The Stranger(Just One Night 1) courtesy of NetGalley and the publisher.

Anna goes to Vegas, gets instructed to have sex with a complete stranger from her BFF, and meets said stranger at a game of Black Jack. Robert Dade gives Anna the night of her life, but she decides to compartmentalize the affair and pack it away with her memories. She's engaged after all. Ah, but now Mr Dade requests Anna to assist him and his company in going global, and since the account is so huge, she can't turn it down. Along the way, Anna finds out who she really is, with the help of Robert of course, and realizes Dave the safe fiancé isn't quite the right path.

The Stranger was HOT! And not nearly long enough! How many times do people stay on the 'safe' path of life, trying to please everyone else? Not taking any risks, staying with what's comfortable, their "baked potato"? Probably more than we would like to admit, and maybe that's why affairs happen. Maybe not. Either way, I sort of understood Anna's resistance with Robert, but at the same time I'm reading and thinking "Get rid of boring Dave!" The chemistry between Robert and Anna was amazing! I was bummed when Kyra Davis left us hanging at the end of The Stranger, but fortunately for us, Exposed will be out soon! UNfortunately, it isn't out for a couple months. Grrr!

~Mandy

Radiant Shadows (Wicked Lovely #4) by Melissa Marr

Hunger for nourishment. Hunger for touch. Hunger to belong.

Half-human and half-faery, Ani is driven by her hungers.

Those same appetites also attract powerful enemies and uncertain allies, including Devlin. He was created as an assassin and is brother to the faeries' coolly logical High Queen and to her chaotic twin, the embodiment of War. Devlin wants to keep Ani safe from his sisters, knowing that if he fails, he will be the instrument of Ani's death.

Ani isn't one to be guarded while others fight battles for her, though. She has the courage to protect herself and the ability to alter Devlin's plans--and his life. The two are drawn together, each with reason to fear the other and to fear for one another. But as they grow closer, a larger threat imperils the whole of Faerie. Will saving the faery realm mean losing each other?

Alluring romance, heart-stopping danger, and sinister intrigue combine in the penultimate volume of Melissa Marr's New York Times bestselling Wicked Lovely series.

4 Stars

I am very happy with this series. Sometimes you read a series and every book has the same underlying theme. Boy meets girl. They fall in love. Unforeseen external forces try to keep them apart. I don't feel there is anything wrong with those series. I enjoy them, but sometimes they can get a little predictable. This series, however, is not like that. Books 1, 3, and 5 are about the same characters. Books 2 and 4 give you the back story of the other major players in the overall story. By arranging the series in this way, you are guaranteed to NOT get bored. Radiant Shadows was filled with excitement. Everything from fight scenes to lovers on the run. This book was pure entertainment. As with all the others in this series, loved it!!

~Kat