Indelible (The Twixt #1) by Dawn Metcalf

The Twixt series #1
384p.
Published: Harlequin Teen
Available: Now
Source: Netgalley and publisher for review

Some things are permanent. 

Indelible. 

And they cannot be changed back. 

Joy Malone learns this the night she sees a stranger with all-black eyes across a crowded room—right before the mystery boy tries to cut out her eye. Instead, the wound accidentally marks her as property of Indelible Ink, and this dangerous mistake thrusts Joy into an incomprehensible world—a world of monsters at the window, glowing girls on the doorstep, and a life that will never be the same. 

Now, Joy must pretend to be Ink’s chosen one—his helper, his love, his something for the foreseeable future...and failure to be convincing means a painful death for them both. Swept into a world of monsters, illusion, immortal honor and revenge, Joy discovers that sometimes, there are no mistakes. 

Somewhere between reality and myth lies… 

THE TWIXT

My thoughts:
 I must admit that this was a confusing world at the beginning of this book. You are sort of thrown into the world with Joy and had to feel your way around things. While this didn't really bother me, I also had to question how Joy was able to handle it so easily. Yes, she freaked out, but at the same time was able to trudge on ahead without much PTSD or thought. Even though I questioned this, it did not stop my enjoyment of the world.

There is also a budding romance in the works. I goes slowly so there is no insta-love here which I appreciated. Something so strange for both Joy and the fae, Ink, I would have had a problem if it went any faster than what was presented. However, even though I loved the way their feelings budded and grew slowly I don't think I was entirely convinced of the romance. I also have to say I wasn't unconvinced as well. :) I know that sounds confusing, but it really felt that they were still on the journey to discovering each other and I suspect I will become more convinced as the series progresses.

I give this book either 3.5 or 4 stars. It's sort of inbetween. I have a feeling that now that the world is established, the characters will start to shine even brighter as the adventure continues. I look forward to the next book in this series.

Midnight Frost Excerpt and Giveaway!

Oh guess what is being published today? Midnight Frost! So, to celebrate Jennifer Estep has given me a excerpt to whet your appetite and a giveaway (US only).

MIDNIGHT FROST EXCERPT:

     The room was dark, so I hit the switch on the wall. Lights blazed on, revealing the same furniture that all of the kids had. A bed, a desk, some bookcases, a flat-screen TV mounted on one of the walls. The only thing that was different about the room was all the trophies he’d won. Dozens of little gold men holding swords, spears, and other weapons peeped out at me from the desk, the bookcases, and a shelf above the bed. There was even a life-sized trophy stuffed in the corner, a staff clutched in his hands like the man was about to step forward and bash me over the head with it. I shivered and looked away. Somehow, the fact that none of the trophies actually had distinct faces made them even creepier.

     A loud sigh sounded, and I realized that Vic was awake. The sword had gone to sleep, as was his habit when he was in his scabbard. I pulled the sword free of the leather and held him up so that we were face-to-face. The sword glanced around the room.

     Vic sighed again. “Really? You’re going to come in here and mope again?”

     “I’m not moping,” I said in a defensive voice.

     “Really?” Vic asked again, his voice made even more sarcastic by his biting English accent. “Because I think that sitting on the Spartan’s bed and staring at his things definitely qualifies as moping. Brooding, even. Especially when you’ve done it a dozen times since he left.”

     I looked out over Logan’s room. Maybe Vic was right. Maybe I was moping over the Spartan and the fact that he’d left Mythos—that he’d left me.

BIO INFO:

Jennifer Estep is a New York Times bestselling author, prowling the streets of her imagination in search of her next fantasy idea. Midnight Frost, the fifth book in her Mythos Academy young adult urban fantasy series, has been released today, July 30. For more information, visit www.jenniferestep.com or follow Jennifer on Facebook, Twitter, and Goodreads.

JENNIFER’S LINKS:

Website: http://www.jenniferestep.com/ 

Blog: http://www.jenniferestep.com/blog/ 

Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/JenniferEstepAuthor?fref=ts 

Twitter: http://twitter.com/Jennifer_Estep   

Goodreads: http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/580315.Jennifer_Estep

Midnight Frost 
Mythos Academy #5
by Jennifer Estep

Here we go again …

Just when it seems life at Mythos Academy can’t get any more dangerous, the Reapers of Chaos manage to prove me wrong. It was just a typical night at the Library of Antiquities — until a Reaper tried to poison me. The good news is I’m still alive and kicking. The bad news is the Reaper poisoned someone else instead.

As Nike’s Champion, everyone expects me to lead the charge against the Reapers, even though I’m still hurting over what happened with Spartan warrior Logan Quinn. I’ve got to get my hands on the antidote fast — otherwise, an innocent person will die. But the only known cure is hidden in some creepy ruins — and the Reapers are sure to be waiting for me there …

To win the latest in the Mythos Academy series, just fill out the rafflecopter form below (US only):

Midnight Frost (Mythos Academy #5) by Jennifer Estep

Mythos Academy series #5
400p.
Publisher: Kensington Teen
Available: July 30, 13
Source: From Author for review

Here we go again …

Just when it seems life at Mythos Academy can’t get any more dangerous, the Reapers of Chaos manage to prove me wrong. It was just a typical night at the Library of Antiquities — until a Reaper tried to poison me. The good news is I’m still alive and kicking. The bad news is the Reaper poisoned someone else instead.

As Nike’s Champion, everyone expects me to lead the charge against the Reapers, even though I’m still hurting over what happened with Spartan warrior Logan Quinn. I’ve got to get my hands on the antidote fast — otherwise, an innocent person will die. But the only known cure is hidden in some creepy ruins — and the Reapers are sure to be waiting for me there…

Oh another installment in the Mythos Academy series! Ah... but *puts thinking cap on* *worries that it doesn't fit* *shrugs* how do I talk about the book so I don't spoil anything for those that still need to read book 1? I know! Insist that everyone read all 4 books so I can talk freely. That works, right? LOL

In this book I admit I was worried that Gwen might end up whining a bit more than would be warranted despite the fact that she had several good reasons in the past to whine. However, Gwen never disappoints me in this regard and always knows how to get her head on straight when it is needed. Again I am happy we have an intelligent and kick arse heroine to lead us through the Chaos Wars.

The only tiny spoilerish (only if you haven't read the other books) tid bit I will let loose is about Logan. I was worried I was going to go back to the love/hate/love/hate relationship we had in the past. While I won't say if we achieved backward book relationship status or not, but I will say that this part is satisfying. I was worried we might have to go through another book to find out if Gwen would get her answer about Logan. We get one here.

I give this book 4 1/2 stars. My biggest complaint is that I don't have the next book in my hot little hands right now. Well, that and I don't have a fenrir wolf next to me (my pups oddly disagree...). Yes, I LOVE the mythical creatures in this book. I hope for more insights into these creatures as the books continue.

Bloggy note:

Come back tomorrow for an excerpt of this book and a chance at a giveaway!

Winners!

The winner for:

is...

Heather R.

(confirmed)

The winner for:

is...

Rain Maiden!

(confirmed)

Congraties!

Current giveaway you can still enter to win:

 Click pic to go to post to enter. ebook so it's international.

There will also be another giveaway shortly!

Author Blog Post and Giveaway: J. L. Bryan and Nomad!

Tips for Time Travelers

Guest post from J.L. Bryan

Traveling through time may sound like a great idea, but it’s not for everyone.  Before you decide to make that big jump into the future or the past, be sure you’re prepared!  Don’t let your first trip through time become your last.  Remember, research reduces regret!  Here are a few tips to consider before you violate the basic natural laws of the fourth dimension:

Money.  Did you think about this?  If you don’t have currency appropriate for where you’re traveling, you won’t be able to do much when you get there.  Buying antique coins in advance is usually cost-prohibitive, unfortunately.  Precious metals are accepted in just about any civilization in history, but stockpiling gold and silver in the trunk of your time machine can quickly grow expensive.

Here’s a handy alternative—check for other forms of currency.  If you’re visiting colonial America, tobacco is a cheap commodity that will serve all your shopping needs.  Should you find yourself captured and locked up in a prison camp, you’ll be in luck, because tobacco is accepted currency in most prisons throughout history!

When visiting Soviet-era Russia, American blue jeans are a must-have if you want to barter.  If you’re more interested in the ancient world, pack a block of salt, always a valuable trade good.  Consider bringing obsidian shards, too—prehistoric craftsmen can’t get enough of them!  You could get a great deal on a bearskin sleeping bag or a mammoth-ivory nose ring.  Some cultures accept certain shells or even glass beads as money—stock up on that useless junk in the future and cash in when you visit the past!

Food. Didn’t think about that, did you?  Is the food in other centuries safe to eat? (If you’re visiting the post-nuclear-holocaust world of the 23^rd century, the answer is a firm “no.”)  Even if the food is safe, is it up to your picky standards?  If you’re traveling into the preindustrial era, you can rest assured that all your food is organic, fertilized with only the finest (or most easily available) animal dung.  Dig in!  When traveling into times of famine, however, it’s best to pack your own lunch.

Mittens and Suntan Lotion.  Yes, you’ll need both if you’re going to see a variety of cultures!  Whether you’re dropping into the Little Ice Age to meet Napoleon, or doing some amazing shopping in the golden age of Timbuktu, you want to be ready for every kind of weather.  Also, bring comfortable socks.  You can never have too many of those.

Giveaway!  We hope these tips will help you prepare for time travel!  If you have another tip for time travelers, please add it in the comments below. Make sure you fill out the rafflecopter form! The winner will be chosen from rafflecopter. :)

**

J.L. Bryan’s book Nomad, a new adult time-travel dystopian, releases today!  It’s just $2.99 for the book release (regular price will be $3.99). (Links are at his website). 

Nomad book description:

They took everything: her family, her home, her childhood.

By the age of nineteen, Raven has spent most of her life in the sprawling slums of America, fighting as a rebel against the dictatorship. When the rebellion steals an experimental time-travel device, she travels back five decades to the year 2013. Her plan: assassinate the future dictator when he is still young and vulnerable, long before he comes to power. She must move fast to reshape history, because agents from her own time are on her trail, ready to execute her on sight.

J.L. Bryan studied English literature at the University of Georgia and at Oxford, with a focus on English Renaissance and Romantic literature. He also studied screenwriting at UCLA. He lives in the metro Atlanta sprawl with his wife Christina, where he spends most of his day serving the toddler and animal community inside his house.  He is the author of the Paranormals series and the Songs of Magic series.  (His book Jenny Pox is currently free on Kindle, Nook, Apple, Sony, Kobo, and Smashwords!)  

J.L. Bryan’s links: Website, Twitter, Facebook, Goodreads, Amazon Author Profile 

J.L. Bryan has let me giveaway his new ebook! After what AimeeKay has said (her review), I can't wait to dive into this book! Just fill out the rafflecopter form below to enter. Don't forget to answer J.L. Bryan's question (there is a prompt on the form). Since the giveaway is an ebook, it is international.

Good luck!

Throwback Thursday: The False Prince

Meme hosted by Melissa My World in Words and Pages. It's about books that are already on the shelves and are waiting to be read. Go to her website to join in!

My submission this week:

The False Prince
The Ascendence Trilogy #1
by Jennifer A. Nielsen
Read by: Charlie McWade

THE FALSE PRINCE is the thrilling first book in a brand-new trilogy filled with danger and deceit and hidden identities that will have readers rushing breathlessly to the end. 

In a discontent kingdom, civil war is brewing. To unify the divided people, Conner, a nobleman of the court, devises a cunning plan to find an impersonator of the king's long-lost son and install him as a puppet prince. Four orphans are recruited to compete for the role, including a defiant boy named Sage. Sage knows that Conner's motives are more than questionable, yet his life balances on a sword's point -- he must be chosen to play the prince or he will certainly be killed. But Sage's rivals have their own agendas as well. 

As Sage moves from a rundown orphanage to Conner's sumptuous palace, layer upon layer of treachery and deceit unfold, until finally, a truth is revealed that, in the end, may very well prove more dangerous than all of the lies taken together. 

An extraordinary adventure filled with danger and action, lies and deadly truths that will have readers clinging to the edge of their seats.

Yep, another audio free from SYNC (if it's not up right away then just wait, it should be soon)! I've been curious about this one. Just go to the SYNC website to get it. This one is open to everyone! Yes, it's international!

Any good princely audios/books on your tbr?

Note: Nope, I'm not affiliated in any way with SYNC or the publisher or the author... just like freebies and telling ya about them. :D

Aimeekay Review: Nomad by J.L. Bryan

Publication date: 7/26/13
Publisher: J.L. Bryan
Source: ebook from author for review

They took everything: her family, her home, her childhood. 

By the age of nineteen, Raven has spent most of her life in the sprawling slums of America, fighting as a rebel against the dictatorship. When the rebellion steals an experimental time-travel device, she travels back five decades to the year 2013. Her plan: assassinate the future dictator when he is still young and vulnerable, long before he comes to power. She must move fast to reshape history, because agents from her own time are on her trail, ready to execute her on sight.

AimeeKay's thoughts:
Once again J.L. Bryan fails to disappoint! Nomad was mind blowing and action packed. It drew me in from the first page and kept me thinking about it long after I was done.

I loved the newest world the author has created. The time traveling that he created made sense. Even his answer to the paradox of what would happen if you changed anything in history made sense. I was drawn into watching Raven try to piece together her past while, at the same time, trying to create a future where it never happened had me constantly guessing. I kept trying to figure out what path she would choose and how it would actually turn out.

I loved the characters as well. I liked Raven from the beginning. She was funny and smart. I especially enjoyed watching her develop. I have to say I enjoyed Logan as well. It was fun trying to figure out what made him into the homicidal dictator of the future. Also seeing certain aspects of his younger personality that as dictator were allowed to run unchecked and make him cruel and heartless. For example he likes to blow things up; as a child who has to answer to a higher figure for his actions this trait is merely annoying. As the ruler of the world he has to answer to no one so his destructive streak has nothing to curb it and he can destroy whatever he wants without caring who or what it is.

Overall this book was tons of fun. It had a great deal of action to keep the pages turning. It also really makes the reader think, without making it overbearing. The ending was solid and while heartbreaking it was very satisfying. I hope there are more books to come involving Raven and the other Nomads.

Just a heads up, there are some scenes that would make me hesitate to recommend it to the under 18 crowd, adult situation scenes, if you get my drift. Nothing overly graphic, but still, read it before just handing it to someone under 18.

To everyone over 18? I soooo recommend this one! Whether you’re looking for something just to pass the time while on vacation, or you plan on a book being your vacation! Nomad is a great read, and as I said before it also has a solid ending so you won’t be left hanging. I now have a terrible urge to go out and pick up a copy of Slaughterhouse-Five. I blame Bryan, want to know why? You’ll have to read the book.

'Til Next Time 

AimeeKay

Bloggy note: Come back on Friday for a blog post by the author and a giveaway!!

Tell Me Something Tuesday: Blog Book Tours

Tell Me Something Tuesday, a meme started by CambriaHebert, but now hosted on Rainy Day Ramblings. It is a chance to get to know your fellow bloggers by sharing fun stuff, discussions and more. Grab the question and post your answer on your blog and link up at Rainy Day Ramblings! Have fun!

This weeks question:

I want to be on the tour! What are some things that you like about being a book tour? What are things that you dislike?

What I like about a tour is that I don't have to do too much to set up the posts. Most of it is done for me and so my job is just to make sure it is done and ready when my turn comes. Also, depending on the tour, you can get a lot of good camaraderie going with the other participants in the tour. So, because of that, my fave tours are run by people I have already "met" through their blog.

Some of my fun tour hosts are:

Candace's Book Blog

and 

Maja at The Nocturnal Library 

(we had so much fun with the recent tour of Bronze Gods)

Oh I enjoy the bigger ones, but these are a little more cozy so they are just more fun for me. I also enjoy being a part of a tour for authors since I usually am such a fan of their work. 

What I dislike... hm... haven't ran into many problems specifically with tours. The one's I've been a part of are well run and I get all my information right on time. So, no complaints. Well, maybe one. I know the addy for this blog and the title for the blog are a bit confusing, but I still think it is obvious and should be corrected when I bring it to someones attention. Even that is really not a big deal though. *shrugs* Just the only thing I could think of right now. :)

So, how about you? Do you like blog tours? Do you participate?

Carniepunk by Various UF Authors

Anthology
Available: 7/23/13
448p.
Published: Gallery Books
Source: From publisher for review

A star-studded urban fantasy anthology featuring bestselling authors Rachel Caine, Rob Thurman, Seanan McGuire, Jennifer Estep, and Kevin Hearne, whose stories explore the creepy, mysterious, and, yes, sometimes magical world of traveling carnivals. 

The traveling carnival is a leftover of a bygone era, a curiosity lurking on the outskirts of town. It is a place of contradictions—the bright lights mask the peeling paint; a carnie in greasy overalls slinks away from the direction of the Barker’s seductive call. It is a place of illusion—is that woman’s beard real? How can she live locked in that watery box? 

And while many are tricked by sleight of hand, there are hints of something truly magical going on. One must remain alert and learn quickly the unwritten rules of this dark show. To beat the carnival, one had better have either a whole lot of luck or a whole lot of guns—or maybe some magic of one’s own. 

Featuring stories grotesque and comical, outrageous and action-packed,Carniepunk is the first anthology to channel the energy and attitude of urban fantasy into the bizarre world of creaking machinery, twisted myths, and vivid new magic.

My thoughts:
This is a book by: Rachel Caine, Jennifer Estep, Kevin Hearne, Seanan McGuire, Rob Thurman, Delilah S. Dawson, Kelly Gay, Mark Henry, Hillary Jacques, Jackie Kessler, Kelly Meding, Allison Pang, Nicole Peeler, and Jaye Wells. These authors are either my some of my favorite UF writers or those that I want to get to know (and have their books waiting for me on my tbr). I also took my time with this one. I know that a lot of people think it is a hallmark of a book to finish quickly. Sometimes, if you are like me, you want to savor a book. Enjoy it slowly. I was able to do just that by only reading 2 or 3 of the short stories at a time. I wanted to really enjoy what I read before I dove into the next world.

Although I won't go into each specific story (I don't want to spoil a thing) I can say that this collection was very well done. All had the theme of a visiting carnival that wrecks havoc for characters we are both familiar with and meet for the first time. Many of these are written so they are part of a series but those that haven't read that series shouldn't worry, you can get into the stories easily without knowing what had gone on previously. It is a good way to see if it might be a series you want to try after reading. And while I enjoyed some stories more than others (will always be that way in any anthology you pick up), I have to say I didn't find one I disliked.

Oh and those that are missing series that have just been dropped, it is good to note that Allison Pang's short is a part of the Abby Sinclar world and Kelly Gay's short is a part of the Charlie Madigan world. I would have bought it just for that one! :D

I give this book 4.5 stars. I have to say it has been one of my top anthologies that I've read. I think that if you are a fan of UF, this is an anthology that belongs on your book shelves or ereader. Luckily it isn't a limited time offer and you don't have to personally be assaulted by clowns to get it. :)

PS.. for those just wanting the Jennifer Estep story...

CARNIEPUNK: PARLOR TRICKS is available for free atAmazon, Nook, Kobo, and iTunes.

Quarantine Series Giveaway!

Media Masters Publicity has allowed me to giveaway 2 books in the Quarantine series! My reviews are HERE. The books to be given away are:

A pb copy of:

Quarantine: The Loners
 Quarantine #1
416p.
Publisher: EgmontUSA

It was just another ordinary day at McKinley High—until a massive explosion devastated the school. When loner David Thorpe tried to help his English teacher to safety, the teacher convulsed and died right in front of him. And that was just the beginning. 

A year later, McKinley has descended into chaos. All the students are infected with a virus that makes them deadly to adults. The school is under military quarantine. The teachers are gone. Violent gangs have formed based on high school social cliques. Without a gang, you’re as good as dead. And David has no gang. It’s just him and his little brother, Will, against the whole school.

In this frighteningly dark and captivating novel, Lex Thomas locks readers inside a school where kids don’t fight to be popular, they fight to stay alive.

and a HC copy of:

Quarantine: The Saints

Quarantine #2

400p.

Publisher: EgmontUSA

Nothing was worse than being locked in—until they opened the door...

McKinley High has been a battle ground for eighteen months since a virus outbreak led to a military quarantine of the school. When the doors finally open, Will and Lucy will think their nightmare is finished. But they are gravely mistaken. 

As a new group of teens enters the school and gains popularity, Will and Lucy join new gangs. An epic party on the quad full of real food and drinks, where kids hookup and actually interact with members of other gangs seemed to signal a new, easier existence. Soom after though, the world inside McKinley takes a startling turn for the worse, and Will and Lucy will have to fight harder than ever to survive. 

The Saints brings readers back to the dark and deadly halls of McKinley High and the QUARANTINE series.

Don't forget to check out the author's website:

Lex Thomas's website

You can also get the ebook of Quarantine: The Loners (Quarantine #1) for $1.99:

It is on sale until the 22nd. for $1.99 in ebook format. 

($1.39) Amazon, Nook, Kobo, Sony, iTunes

To purchase Quarantine: The Saints:

* Barnes and Noble

* Amazon

* Indiebound

To enter this giveaway, just fill out the rafflecopter form below. The giveaway is US only.

Throwback Thursday: Grave Mercy

Meme hosted by Melissa My World in Words and Pages. It's about books that are already on the shelves and are waiting to be read. Go to her website to join in!

My submission this week:

Grave Mercy
His Fair Assassin #1
by Robin LaFevers
Read by: Erin Moon

Why be the sheep, when you can be the wolf?

Seventeen-year-old Ismae escapes from the brutality of an arranged marriage into the sanctuary of the convent of St. Mortain, where the sisters still serve the gods of old. Here she learns that the god of Death Himself has blessed her with dangerous gifts—and a violent destiny. If she chooses to stay at the convent, she will be trained as an assassin and serve as a handmaiden to Death. To claim her new life, she must destroy the lives of others.

Ismae's most important assignment takes her straight into the high court of Brittany—where she finds herself woefully under prepared—not only for the deadly games of intrigue and treason, but for the impossible choices she must make. For how can she deliver Death’s vengeance upon a target who, against her will, has stolen her heart?

I reviewed this one HERE when I read it (and I really need that next book!) so I already know I enjoyed it. I'm curious as to how it will sound in audio!

Yep, it's free from SYNC this week (if it's not up right away then just wait, it should be soon)! Just go to the SYNC website to get it. This one seems to be only open to those in US and Can.

So, any books that you've read and then tried on audio? 

Note: Nope, I'm not affiliated in any way with SYNC or the publisher or the author... just like freebies and telling ya about them. :D 

Quarantine: The Saints (Quarantine #2) by Lex Thomas

Quarantine #2
400p.
Publisher: EgmontUSA
Source: ARC from Media Masters for review

Nothing was worse than being locked in—until they opened the door... 

McKinley High has been a battle ground for eighteen months since a virus outbreak led to a military quarantine of the school. When the doors finally open, Will and Lucy will think their nightmare is finished. But they are gravely mistaken. 

As a new group of teens enters the school and gains popularity, Will and Lucy join new gangs. An epic party on the quad full of real food and drinks, where kids hookup and actually interact with members of other gangs seemed to signal a new, easier existence. Soom after though, the world inside McKinley takes a startling turn for the worse, and Will and Lucy will have to fight harder than ever to survive. 

The Saints brings readers back to the dark and deadly halls of McKinley High and the QUARANTINE series.

My thoughts:
Ah this book seemed to take some of my criticism of the parts that left me befuddled and gave me some of the answers I craved. We get to know where the parents have gone (some) and how those girls never seem to get pregnant. I'm glad that cleared those major things up so the parts that still are left unanswered didn't bother me as much. I did need a few pieces of that puzzle. I still want to know how they survive without getting infections from their wounds.

In a sense this is much like the last book in terms of the kids behaving in a wild manner. The plot is mostly about what happens when kids are left to their own devices. While I wanted more of the inner workings of the kids I got a bit of it, but not much again. Still, this isn't about character growth as much as it is about survival.

There is one aspect I thought I'd mention. The girls interactions seemed very male to me. They way they spoke and joked with each other was more male than female. However, it didn't bother me to take me out of the story, just something I noticed. I will also say this: At least the girls talked about something other than boys. They were also concerned about survival.

I give this book 3 stars. I did like it a bit better than the first and the ending, while not a cliffie, really left you with some questions that might be answered within the next book. You really do want to know what happens to these characters. I do suggest this one to the older YA crowd due to the prevalence of sex and extreme violence. It can get quite gory.

Top Off Tuesday: Obsession

"Every once in awhile there are covers that just make you say Oh My! Sometimes it is good, sometimes it is bad, and sometimes it is head scratching. The point of Top Off Tuesday is to show you the ones with their Tops Off! Seriously y’all hunting out Top Off Tuesday covers is one of my favorite pastimes and you should join the fun!"

I have been enjoying this meme on Felicia's The Geeky Blogger's blog and have finally found some time to join in. The other players are Amanda from On a Book Bender, Christi from Smitten with Reading. Button made by Missie at The Unread Reader

My submission:

Obsession
by Jennifer L. Armentrout
370p.
Publisher: Entangled Covet

This is a stand alone novel that is an adult spin-off of the Lux Series 

He’s arrogant, domineering, and... To. Die. For. 

Hunter is a ruthless killer. And the Department of Defense has him firmly in their grasp, which usually doesn’t chafe too badly because he gets to kill bad guys. Most of the time he enjoys his job. That is, until he’s saddled with something he’s never had to do before: protect a human from his mortal enemy. 

Serena Cross didn’t believe her best friend when she claimed to have seen the son of a powerful senator turn into something... unnatural. Who would? But then she witnesses her friend’s murder at the hands of what can only be an alien, thrusting her into a world that will kill to protect their secret. 

Hunter stirs Serena’s temper and her lust despite their differences. Soon he’s doing the unthinkable—breaking the rules he’s lived by, going against the government to keep Serena safe. But are the aliens and the government the biggest threats to Serena’s life… or is it Hunter?

I really enjoy Jennifer L. Armentrout's characters and I'm unfortunately behind in the Lux series. I like that she is branching out into adult since now I can fully appreciate her male characters. :D His eyes are a bit freaky, but I can forgive it since he is shirtless... :)

Quarantine: The Loners (Quarantine #1) by Lex Thomas

First in Quarantine series
416p.
Published by EgmontUSA
Source: From Media Masters for review

It was just another ordinary day at McKinley High—until a massive explosion devastated the school. When loner David Thorpe tried to help his English teacher to safety, the teacher convulsed and died right in front of him. And that was just the beginning. 

A year later, McKinley has descended into chaos. All the students are infected with a virus that makes them deadly to adults. The school is under military quarantine. The teachers are gone. Violent gangs have formed based on high school social cliques. Without a gang, you’re as good as dead. And David has no gang. It’s just him and his little brother, Will, against the whole school.

In this frighteningly dark and captivating novel, Lex Thomas locks readers inside a school where kids don’t fight to be popular, they fight to stay alive.

My thoughts:
 This is a different kind of dystopian tale in which the alternate society is limited to a high school where teens are held captive. A virus is let loose that kills adults and is transmitted by the teens. They are left to their own devices and fed at intervals by the government by drops. They are kept within the walls of the school by a quarantine tent and the army. The kids form their own societies with "gangs". It's very Lord of the Flies kind of society.

While I did like the inventiveness about this society I was thinking it would be a character driven book. While this is not entirely wrong, it didn't really feel like an exploration of a certain character or a society. It was mostly about the action and how kids turned on each other quite easily. It was more about that than the coming together of groups for protection or why they chose their behavior. I did like the main character of David but couldn't honestly understand his brother Will. His jealousy just seemed ungenuine and a bit on the annoying side. However, I did like the way Will grew, it just happened a bit late in the book for me to really enjoy this character. There was also a love triangle that didn't quite work for me either, but then I'm not a fan of those anyway.

I did have a problem with this world quite a bit. I can suspend belief with the best of them, but there was just too much that I couldn't ignore. I can deal with the fact that the government acted so quickly. There could be a back story about that we are unaware. Also, where were the parents to fight for the kids? Again that could be backstory so I can accept that much. What I couldn't understand is that the researchers/government now had a microcosm society as well as excellent test subjects to study. I couldn't imagine them not studying what is so dangerous to most of society. You should also have more than one generation (oddly enough no one got pregnant which I couldn't buy) normally and could see how the virus affected infants. Also, the injuries would have killed those kids faster than someone being murdered. With the filth many lived in, the simplest scratch could mean death. There were too many severe injuries for them to not be killed by infection.

As an adventure I can see YA crowd enjoying the adventure and the action. I know a lot of people will love it for that. I can give it 3 stars for that alone. It is quite the adventure. It also ends in a way that makes me curious for the next book. No cliffies, but a huge open thread that makes you want to know more. I just need a bit more characterization and believable world building for me to rate it higher in those areas.

Review and Giveaway: A Really Awesome Mess by Trish Cook and Brendan Halpin

Publisher: EgmontUSA
Standalone
Available: July 23, 2013
288p.
Source: book from promoter for review

Two teenagers. Two very bumpy roads taken that lead to Heartland Academy.

Justin was just having fun, but when his dad walked in on him with a girl in a very compromising position, Justin's summer took a quick turn for the worse. His parents' divorce put Justin on rocky mental ground, and after a handful of Tylenol lands him in the hospital, he has really hit rock bottom. 

Emmy never felt like part of her family. She was adopted from China. Her parents and sister tower over her and look like they came out of a Ralph Lauren catalog-- and Emmy definitely doesn't. After a scandalous photo of Emmy leads to vicious rumors around school, she threatens the boy who started it all on Facebook. 

Justin and Emmy arrive at Heartland Academy, a reform school that will force them to deal with their issues, damaged souls with little patience for authority. But along the way they will find a ragtag group of teens who are just as broken, stubborn, and full of sarcasm as themselves. In the end, they might even call each other friends.A funny, sad, and remarkable story, A Really Awesome Mess is a journey of friendship and self-discovery that teen readers will surely sign up for.

My thoughts:
I'm not someone who loves issue books. I do like that they are out there and feel that their presence is important especially to teens. Although I knew this would have some issues I didn't think I would mind it as much. I was right.

I have to admit that at the beginning I did not like the book. Emmy starts off as mean and angry and used a lot of slang in front of adults. Most teens use one type of language to their peers and another to adults. Not only that, but the facility she was put in seemed a bit hokey and a little too good to be true. When I was introduced to Justin, it kept up that same image to me. I just thought I wouldn't like the book.

When we start to get to know more of the secondary characters the other two main characters, Emmy and Justin, started opening up to me and I really started to like them both. As time went on I still didn't love the facility but it didn't bother me. In the end, it was not the counselors who challenged the kids, but each other. Their small group challenged each other and called each other on their B.S.

In the end I give this book 4 stars. I didn't love the beginning, but I did enjoy the rest of the story. I liked how these kids came together and learned how to help themselves. I also liked the theme that it is brave to keep going in life rather than giving up no matter what is thrown at you.

Media Masters Publicity and EgmontUSA are sponsoring the giveaway the book! Just fill out the rafflecopter form below to enter. The giveaway is US only. I'm keeping this giveaway open until the release date on the 23rd.

Throwback Thursday: The Peculiar

Meme hosted by Melissa My World in Words and Pages. It's about books that are already on the shelves and are waiting to be read. Go to her website to join in!

My submission this week:

The Peculiar
by Stefan Bachmann
read by Peter Altschuler

Publisher: Harper Audio

Don't get yourself noticed and you won't get yourself hanged. 

In the faery slums of Bath, Bartholomew Kettle and his sister Hettie live by these words. Bartholomew and Hettie are changelings—Peculiars—and neither faeries nor humans want anything to do with them. 

One day a mysterious lady in a plum-colored dress comes gliding down Old Crow Alley. Bartholomew watches her through his window. Who is she? What does she want? And when Bartholomew witnesses the lady whisking away, in a whirling ring of feathers, the boy who lives across the alley—Bartholomew forgets the rules and gets himself noticed. 

First he's noticed by the lady in plum herself, then by something darkly magical and mysterious, by Jack Box and the Raggedy Man, by the powerful Mr. Lickerish... and by Arthur Jelliby, a young man trying to slip through the world unnoticed, too, and who, against all odds, offers Bartholomew friendship and a way to belong. 

Part murder mystery, part gothic fantasy, part steampunk adventure, The Peculiar is Stefan Bachmann's riveting, inventive, and unforgettable debut novel.

Yep, another audio free from SYNC (if it's not up right away then just wait, it should be soon)! I've been curious about this one and it is free starting today! Just so to theSYNC website to get it. This one is open to everyone. Yep, it's international!

So, any good fae books on your tbr?

Note: Nope, I'm not affiliated in any way with SYNC or the publisher or the author... just like freebies and telling ya about them. :D

Bookish Deals!

Oh I found some good deals... had to share... :D

Deadly Sting
Elemental Assassin #8
by Jennifer Estep
369p.
Publisher: Pocket Books

Red is definitely my color. Good thing, because in my line of work, I end up wearing it a lot.

Most people shy away from blood, but for an assassin like me— Gin Blanco, aka the Spider—it’s just part of the job. Still, it would be nice to get a night off, especially when I’m attending the biggest gala event of the summer at Briartop, Ashland’s fanciest art museum. But it’s just not meant to be. For this exhibition of my late nemesis’s priceless possessions is not only theplace to be seen, but the place to be robbed and taken hostage at gunpoint as well. No sooner did I get my champagne than a bunch of the unluckiest thieves ever burst into the museum and started looting the place. 

Unlucky why? Because I brought along a couple of knives in addition to my killer dress. Add these to my Ice and Stone magic, and nothing makes me happier than showing the bad guys why red really is my color.

This one is on sale for the month of July at Amazon for Kindle! Only $1.99! It's also on sale elsewhere:

Nook, iTunes, Kobo

...and speaking of Jennifer Estep...

Carniepunk: Parlor Tricks
Elemental Assassin #8.5
by Jennifer Estep

Come one! Come all! Witness Gin Blanco—aka the Elemental Assassin, aka the Spider—go toe to toe against the Esmerelda the Amazing's Wheel of Death and some dangerously creepy clowns! Only at The Carnival of Wondrous Wonders! 

A free story from the forthcoming Carniepunk urban fantasy anthology starring bestselling authors Rachel Caine, Jennifer Estep, Kevin Hearne, Seanan McGuire, and Rob Thurman, and also includes Delilah S. Dawson, Kelly Gay, Mark Henry, Hillary Jacques, Jackie Kessler, Kelly Meding, Allison Pang, Nicole D. Peeler, and Jaye Wells. Samples of all fourteen tales are included to tantalize and to tease. Come to the Carniepunk midway and explore the creepy, mysterious, magical world of traveling carnivals today!

CARNIEPUNK: PARLOR TRICKS is available for free at Amazon, Nook, Kobo, and iTunes.

Yep, that one is free and I'll be reviewing the anthology later on in the month.

Quarantine: The Loners
 Quarantine #1
by Lex Thomas
416p.
Publisher: EgmontUSA

It was just another ordinary day at McKinley High—until a massive explosion devastated the school. When loner David Thorpe tried to help his English teacher to safety, the teacher convulsed and died right in front of him. And that was just the beginning. 

A year later, McKinley has descended into chaos. All the students are infected with a virus that makes them deadly to adults. The school is under military quarantine. The teachers are gone. Violent gangs have formed based on high school social cliques. Without a gang, you’re as good as dead. And David has no gang. It’s just him and his little brother, Will, against the whole school.

In this frighteningly dark and captivating novel, Lex Thomas locks readers inside a school where kids don’t fight to be popular, they fight to stay alive.

This ebook is on sale until the 22nd. for $1.99 in ebook format. 

($1.39) Amazon, Nook, Kobo, Sony, iTunes

I'll be reviewing this one and giving it away later in the month.

The Darkest Night
Lords of the Underworld #1
by Gena Showalter
379p.
Publisher: Harlequin

His powers - Inhuman... 

His passion - Beyond immortal...

All her life, Ashlyn Darrow has been tormented by voices from the past. To end the nightmare, she has come to Budapest seeking help from men rumored to have supernatural abilities, not knowing she'll be swept into the arms of Maddox, their most dangerous member -- a man trapped in a hell of his own. 

Neither can resist the instant hunger than calms their torments... and ignites an irresistible passion. But every heated touch and burning kiss will edge them closer to destruction -- and a soul-shattering test of love... 

Though they carry an eternal curse, the Lords of the Underworld are irresistibly seductive -- and unimaginably powerful...

It's on sale for $1.99! Amazon, Nook, iTunes, Kobo

Blood Rights
House of Comarré #1
by Kristen Painter
433p.
Publisher: Orbit

"The lacy gold mapped her entire body. A finely-wrought filigree of stars, vines, flowers, butterflies, ancient symbols and words ran from her feet, up her legs, over her narrow waist, spanned her chest and finished down her arms to the tips of her fingers."

Born into a life of secrets and service, Chrysabelle’s body bears the telltale marks of a comarré—a special race of humans bred to feed vampire nobility. When her patron is murdered, she becomes the prime suspect, which sends her running into the mortal world…and into the arms of Malkolm, an outcast vampire cursed to kill every being from whom he drinks. 

Now Chrysabelle and Malkolm must work together to stop a plot to merge the mortal and supernatural worlds. If they fail, a chaos unlike anything anyone has ever seen will threaten to reign.

This one is $2.99 and I reviewed this one HERE. I enjoyed it and I really need to continue this series. You can get the ebook link HERE from Orbit in your preferred format.

Tempest Rising
Jane True #1
by Nicole Peeler
368p.
Publisher: Orbit

Living in small town Rockabill, Maine, Jane True always knew she didn't quite fit in with so-called normal society. During her nightly, clandestine swim in the freezing winter ocean, a grisly find leads Jane to startling revelations about her heritage: she is only half-human.

Now, Jane must enter a world filled with supernatural creatures alternatively terrifying, beautiful, and deadly- all of which perfectly describe her new "friend," Ryu, a gorgeous and powerful vampire.

It is a world where nothing can be taken for granted: a dog can heal with a lick; spirits bag your groceries; and whatever you do, never-ever-rub the genie's lamp.

Oh I have this one and so need to read it. It is on sale for $2.99 as well! Just go to Orbit HERE to get the ebook in your preferred format. 

Top Off Tuesday: Marked

(because I was reminded I forgot the description again LOL) "Every once in awhile there are covers that just make you say Oh My! Sometimes it is good, sometimes it is bad, and sometimes it is head scratching. The point of Top Off Tuesday is to show you the ones with their Tops Off! Seriously y’all hunting out Top Off Tuesday covers is one of my favorite pastimes and you should join the fun!"

I have been enjoying this meme on Felicia's The Geeky Blogger's blog and have finally found some time to join in. The other players are Amanda from On a Book Bender, Christi from Smitten with Reading. Button made by Missie at The Unread Reader

My submission:

Marked
Eternal Guardians #1
by Elisabeth Naughton
Published: Love Spell

THERON—Dark haired, duty bound and deceptively deadly. He’s the leader of the Argonauts, an elite group of guardians that defends the immortal realm from threats of the Underworld. 

From the moment he walked into the club, Casey knew this guy was different. Men like that just didn’t exist in real life—silky shoulder-length hair, chest impossibly broad, and a predatory manner that just screamed dark and dangerous. He was looking for something. Her. 

She was the one. She had the mark. Casey had to die so his kind could live, and it was Theron’s duty to bring her in. But even as a 200-year-old descendent of Hercules, he wasn’t strong enough to resist the pull in her fathomless eyes, to tear himself away from the heat of her body. 

As war with the Underworld nears, someone will have to make the ultimate sacrifice.

Okay, he might be a bit of a slouch... but do we really mind? :) Btw, I got this one free and I do think it is still free. :) 

I have Hercules, Hercules chant running in my head...

Wisp of a Thing: A Novel of the Tufa (Tufa #2) by Alex Bledsoe

Series: Tufa #2
352p.
Publisher: Tor
Available Now
Source: From Tor for review

Alex Bledsoe’s The Hum and the Shiver was named one of the Best Fiction Books of 2011 by Kirkus Reviews. Now with Wisp of a Thing Bledsoe returns to the isolated ridges and hollows of the Smoky Mountains to spin an equally enchanting tale of music and magic older than the hills… 

Touched by a very public tragedy, musician Rob Quillen comes to Cloud County, Tennessee, in search of a song that might ease his aching heart. All he knows of the mysterious and reclusive Tufa is what he has read on the internet: they are an enigmatic clan of swarthy, black-haired mountain people whose historical roots are lost in myth and controversy. Some people say that when the first white settlers came to the Appalachians centuries ago, they found the Tufa already there. Others hint that Tufa blood brings special gifts. 

Rob finds both music and mystery in the mountains. Close-lipped locals guard their secrets, even as Rob gets caught up in a subtle power struggle he can’t begin to comprehend. A vacationing wife goes missing, raising suspicions of foul play, and a strange feral girl runs wild in the woods, howling in the night like a lost spirit.
Change is coming to Cloud County, and only the night wind knows what part Rob will play when the last leaf falls from the Widow’s Tree…and a timeless curse must be broken at last.

My thoughts:
I had read the first book, The Hum and the Shiver, which surprised me. I really enjoyed that book and it was a different kind of paranormal story. While you could probably get into the story without reading the first book, I do not suggest it. There are some subtle background to this world you understand better if you read it in order. It makes this book flow better.

In this book we are thrown back into the Tufa world though the eyes of Rob Quillen who looks like a Tufa, but isn't connected to them by blood. Having been sent to the area in search of a song to heal a broken heart he finds much more than he bargained. He also finds that helping others helps the pain to be less severe. He also stumbles on a age old mystery that has held a community captive. We also find out that there are even more mysteries than we first thought and through the story it shows us where the mysteries lie and how to solve them. The only question left is if they will be brave enough to use the solution.

I give this book 4 stars. It is a good second book and I really enjoyed the dark ethereal world. Those that like unusual and inventive stories of the fae and music will really like this series.

Tarnished (Silver #2) by Rhiannon Held

2nd in Silver series
352p.
Publisher: Tor
Available Now
Source: From Tor for review

Experience the romance and danger of running with the werewolves in this urban fantasy 

Andrew Dare has found his mate in Silver, but they haven’t found the pack they can call home. Some of his old friends think he should return and challenge Roanoke for leadership of all the werewolf packs on the East Coast. But Andrew has baggage—his violent history with the packs of Spain and the rumors of his lack of control. And then there’s Silver—the werewolf who has lost her wild self to a monster’s assault, and who can no longer shift forms. But perhaps together they can overcome all the doubters. 

The second book in this wonderful urban fantasy series plunges readers into the world of the shape-shifter packs who live hidden among us.

 My thoughts:
Yes, I did it again. I was sent this book for review and I knew it was the second book in the series, but I decided to try it anyway. This is a book that should not be read out of order. Not that I couldn't pick up and get into the book, because I did enjoy myself, but because you will miss a lot of information about Silver. She is one of the major characters in this book and despite my lack of knowledge of what happened before she actually captured most of my attention. She is unusual for a were and quite interesting.

 The world in this book is quite interesting. A lot of political wrangling with a wolfish twist. Not just what you say matters, but in how you smell when you say it as well as body language counts more than with humans. However, as they are somewhat related to humans there are some similarities. And while this world is quite interesting it isn't all politics. Quite a bit of adventure to be had with a few very bad guys to be defeated. Not all are defeated by brawn, but also by brain. This is what made the world so captivating

Even though the world is interesting, I'd have to say the book shines when it comes to characters. While I felt I missed a lot with not knowing about Silver completely (totally my fault), she still shined for me. I also loved Dare her mate as well as the secondary characters. The lone human amongst the were, Susan, really shined and I loved her contrast as well as similarities to the were. Usually in these stories the human is the weak link, but Susan proved to be anything but that. I really enjoyed her.

I give this book 4 stars. I wouldn't recommend reading out of order as I have, but I am glad I still read this book. I really enjoyed my time here in this world. I recommend it for those that really enjoy were stories.

Throwback Thursday: The Accidental Demon Slayer

Meme hosted by Melissa My World in Words and Pages. It's about books that are already on the shelves and are waiting to be read. Go to her website to join in!

My submission:

The Accidental Demon Slayer
Demon Slayer #1
by Angie Fox

It's never a good day when an ancient demon shows up on your toilet bowl. For Lizzie Brown, that's just the beginning. Soon her hyperactive terrier starts talking, and her long-lost biker witch Grandma is hurling Smuckers jars filled with magic. Just when she thinks she's seen it all, Lizzie learns she's a demon slayer-and all hell is after her. 

Of course, that's not the only thing after her. Dimitri Kallinikos, a devastatingly handsome shape-shifting griffin needs Lizzie to slay a demon of his own. But how do you talk a girl you've never met into going straight to the underworld? Lie. And if that doesn't work, how dangerous could a little seduction be...?

I got this one when it was free (oh my weakness!) and this sounds like a funny read. The cute little pup also helped sell me on this one. 

So, any freebies that look humorous with cute little dogs on your tbr? 

(not that I'm being specific or anything...)

DNF

Mending the Moon
by Susan Palwick
standalone
336p.
Publisher: Tor
Source: Tor for review

Melinda Soto, aged sixty-four, vacationing in Mexico, is murdered by a fellow American tourist.

Back in her hometown of Reno, Nevada, she leaves behind her adopted son, Jeremy, whom she rescued from war-torn Guatamala when he was a toddler—just one of her many causes over the years. And she leaves behind a circle of friends: Veronique, the academic stuck in a teaching job from which she can't retire; Rosemary, who's losing her husband to Alzheimer's and who's trying to lose herself in volunteer work; Henrietta, the priest at Rosemary's and Melinda's church. 

Jeremy already had a fraught relationship with his charismatic mother and the people in her orbit. Now her death is tearing him apart, and he can barely stand the rituals of remembrance that ensue among his mother’s friends. Then the police reveal who killed Melinda: a Seattle teenager who flew home to his parents and drowned himself just days later. 

It's too much. Jeremy's not the only one who can't deal. Friendships fray. But the unexpected happens: an invitation to them all, from the murderer's mother, to come to Seattle for his memorial. It's ridiculous. And yet, somehow, each of them begins to see in it a chance to heal. Aided, in peculiar ways, by Jeremy's years-long obsession with the comic-book hero Comrade Cosmos, and the immense cult of online commentary it's spawned. 

Shot through with feeling and inventiveness, Susan Palwick's Mending the Moon is a novel of the odd paths that lead to home.

I started out thinking that despite the darkness that it would have a lot of light at the end, but there was so much sadness and anger it was just hard for me to deal with right now. I just wasn't in the mood for the book. And when anger was turned on an innocent dog (it wasn't physically abused and the dog is okay... it was all just in the random thoughts of people hurting) I just didn't want to read further. It made sense in the story and showed how much the people were hurting, but I just had to have something light.

What is strange is that for what I read I can see me recommending this book. The writing was well done and I can see her weaving in lots of personal aspects of the character to bring home the emotions very effectively. Perhaps too much in my case. I do hope to start this one up again someday and see how the book goes.

I rarely post DNFs but I've read that several people like to know why. I thought I'd say that sometimes it isn't a bad book, but just not good timing for the reader. If you read this one, I'd love to know what you thought!

Any books you DNF'd for the same reason?