tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-61252331799367532052024-02-18T19:22:52.263-07:00Bookworm BrandeeReviews, Recommendations, and RamblingsBookworm Brandeehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15834408515209743135noreply@blogger.comBlogger2120125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6125233179936753205.post-11178864000806705702018-08-14T01:00:00.000-06:002018-08-14T01:00:00.708-06:00ICYMI ~ Tomorrow's the BIG Day!!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsqbHZlSV2wJSCn9N14dD00hy9uc8D6aZAAXSZ5enaHGfGsgDrtid6taWiKjkYjGfu44rHuHFcs7tjBp3cRvK-yoLOs9gVVCfPk00uycjEAYlB8iHOH6o264fRCnISvwjqrTS0JHV3ZNs/s1600/38471757_685818555102467_5959044489275244544_n.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="1012" height="454" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsqbHZlSV2wJSCn9N14dD00hy9uc8D6aZAAXSZ5enaHGfGsgDrtid6taWiKjkYjGfu44rHuHFcs7tjBp3cRvK-yoLOs9gVVCfPk00uycjEAYlB8iHOH6o264fRCnISvwjqrTS0JHV3ZNs/s640/38471757_685818555102467_5959044489275244544_n.png" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">In case you missed it, starting tomorrow, August 15th, I'll be embarking on a brand new blogging journey as Lexxie (formerly of (un)Conventional Bookviews) and I marry our blogs and become:</span><br />
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<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: x-large;"><b><a href="http://unconventionalbookworms.com/">(un)Conventional Bookworms</a></b></span></div>
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<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">Please join us for a "reception" of sorts where we'll have giveaways galore! I hope to see y'all there! And thank you so very much for your support and readership over the last 6+ years. 💚</span><br />
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<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;"><br /></span>Bookworm Brandeehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15834408515209743135noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6125233179936753205.post-29227995429954085092018-08-13T01:00:00.000-06:002018-08-13T01:00:07.093-06:00Review ~ Rescuing Rayne ~ Susan Stoker #COYER<a href="https://d.gr-assets.com/books/1390155121l/20577677.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Rescuing Rayne (Delta Force Heroes, #1)" height="320" src="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1451491563l/28398502.jpg" width="200" /></a><span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;"><b><i>Rescuing Rayne</i> by <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/8247140.Susan_Stoker">Susan Stoker</a></b></span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;"><b>Delta Force Heroes #1</b></span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;"><b>Release Date</b>: February 9, 2016<br />
<b>Genre</b>: Adult, Romantic Suspense</span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;"><b>Source</b>: Kindle Freebie</span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;"><b>Rating</b>: 4 Bookworms</span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;"><b>Challenges</b>: #COYER, #ShelfLove</span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;"><b><a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/28398502-rescuing-rayne">Goodreads</a></b></span><br />
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</span><span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;"><b>Synopsis</b></span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">As a flight attendant, Rayne Jackson is used to cancellations, but she never dreamed her latest would lead to a whirlwind tour of London with a handsome stranger...or a life-altering night in his bed. One evening is all the enigmatic man can give her, and Rayne greedily takes it, despite suspecting it will never be enough.</span><br />
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</span> <span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">Heading home after another extreme missions, Keane "Ghost" Bryson hadn't planned to seduce someone during his layover, but Rayne is too sweet to resist. Being a Delta Force member means lying to protect his identity, which is unfortunate, considering Rayne seems made for Ghost, right down to the tattoo on her back. For the first time in his life, regret fills him as he slips away the following morning.</span><br />
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</span> <span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">Both are shocked when, months later, they meet again - under the worst possible circumstances. Seems fate has given them a second chance...if they can survive the terrorist situation they're in. If Ryane can forgive Ghost his lies. And if Ghost can trust Rayne to be strong enough to endure the secrets and uncertainty that come with loving a Delta Force soldier.</span><br />
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<b><i>Rescuing Rayne</i></b> is the first in the Delta Force Heroes series and served as my introduction to Susan Stoker's brand of romantic suspense. Stoker's characters are well-defined and the suspense was tight, if predictable. I enjoyed meeting Ghost and Rayne and look forward to getting better acquainted with the guys of Delta Force.</span><br />
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</span><span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">Highlights:</span><br />
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<li><span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">Characters/Romance<br />
Ghost and Rayne are well developed. I had a good sense of who they were - courageous, protective, loyal, smart - individually and they also made a strong couple. The way Stoker developed them and their romance - their meeting and the impact they made on each other, how they left one another and found each other again - felt very realistic even with the element of fate being involved. Their connection was palpable and Stoker also involved the secondary cast well. Ghost's team, and even a few others, are well-drawn. The dynamics between them felt genuine and I want to get to know these guys better. They way they take each others' backs and the way they enveloped Rayne into their fold was heartwarming.</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">Suspense<br />
Despite the circumstances that created the suspense being a foregone conclusion, Stoker chose a relevant way to incorporate the suspense. She also didn't skimp on the horror and terror - although it wasn't explicit. There was one aspect I felt was a bit unrealistic given the situation though.</span></li>
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<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">Overall, Stoker's brand of romantic suspense worked well for me. I'm eager to continue this series as well as check out her other series. </span><br />
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Bookworm Brandeehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15834408515209743135noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6125233179936753205.post-32169464058172357122018-08-08T01:00:00.000-06:002018-08-08T01:00:06.648-06:00New Release Review ~ Queen of the Darkest Hour ~ Kim Rendfeld @kimrendfeld #2018NewRelease #COYER<a href="https://d.gr-assets.com/books/1390155121l/20577677.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Queen of the Darkest Hour" height="320" src="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1528203217l/39330095.jpg" width="213" /></a><span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;"><b><i>Queen of the Darkest Hour</i> by <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/6439778.Kim_Rendfeld">Kim Rendfeld</a></b></span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;"><b>Release Date</b>: August 7, 2018<br />
<b>Genre</b>: Adult, Historical Fiction</span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;"><b>Source</b>: I received an eARC from the author. This did not affect my rating and my review is provided voluntarily.</span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;"><b>Rating</b>: 4 Bookworms</span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;"><b>Challenges</b>: #2018NewRelease, #COYER</span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;"><b><a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/39330095-queen-of-the-darkest-hour">Goodreads</a></b></span><br />
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</span><span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;"><b>Synopsis</b></span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">Family Strife Imperils the Realm</span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">Francia, 783: Haunted by the Saxons' attack on her home fortress, Fastrada obeys her father and marries Charles, king of the Franks and a widower with seven children and an eighth on the way by a concubine. As more wars loom, Fastrada's greatest peril lurks within the castle walls: Pepin, Charles's son by his embittered former wife. Blaming his father for the curse that twisted his spine, Pepin rejects a price archbishopric and plots with his uncle and mother to seize the throne. Can Fastrada stop the conspiracy before it destroys the kingdom?</span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">Based on historic events during Charlemagne's reign, "Queen of the Darkest Hour" is the story of a family conflict endangering an entire country - and the price to save it.</span><br />
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I often read historical romance but historical fiction is also a favorite genre of mine. Having stories created around historical people with historical details incorporated makes for educational as well as entertaining reading. I'd read Ms. Rendfeld's previous works and found them fascinating so I was delighted to have the opportunity to read her latest novel, <b><i>Queen of the Darkest Hour</i></b>.</span><br />
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</span> <span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;"><i><b>Queen of the Darkest Hour</b></i> is set in the late 700's and revolves around King Charles - King of the Franks, and the Lombards, and patrician of Rome - his fourth wife, Fastrada, and his and their children. As that time period would dictate, the story involves war, religion. politics, and intrigue. But it's also a story of the strong bond between a king and his queen - a bond so strong that Charles consulted Fastrada on many decisions and included her in the ruling of his realm.</span><br />
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</span> <span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">Ms. Rendfeld discusses in her afterword the details of the story which are historically accurate and those she took creative license with and I found it all interesting. But that she could craft a compelling story, set so long ago, around these figures is a testament to her skill. I will admit there were places where I groaned over the continued whining of a certain prince or the seemingly perpetual preparing for a move or for war. However, this was all realistic, a part of their lives, and set up for the events surrounding the traitorous plot against the king.</span><br />
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</span> <span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">Ms. Rendfeld's use of both Fastrada's and Pepin's POV to relate the story worked well as I was able to see the true affection between Fastrada and Charles. I commiserated with her frustration at not producing a son, her deep feelings for their children, and her people. Through her I could understand Charles's desire to do all her could to rule fairly and protect his family and his people. I applauded her taking her place by Charles's side, offering her opinions and advice rather than standing in his shadow - something she was despised for. Through Pepin's eyes, I could see, if not relate to his unhappiness with his lot in life and his determination to have more. I understood his need to have his father see him as more than a deformed son...as worthy of praise and attention. I could also understand how the Church was used to twist his thinking. </span><span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">I think my only grievance would be with Pepin - who was treated far better - in life and in this story - that most deformed children would have been. However, it was necessary to the story and possibly historically accurate to portray him as greedy and ungrateful.</span><br />
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</span> <span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">Ms. Rendfeld not only developed strong characters but also conveyed the setting well - the sights, sounds, smells of the abodes Charles and Fastrada inhabited as well as the forests, rivers, and battlefields. The ways in which Charles ruled - holding assemblies, consulting the Church, etc., was genuine. The story kept me riveted, needing to know what would happen next, how Fastrada and Charles would handle things, while also providing history lessons.</span><br />
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</span> <span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">In <i><b>Queen of the Darkest Hour</b></i>, Ms. Rendfeld delivers an engaging historical tale, with a high degree of historical accuracy. But it's also a portrait of a loving couple and their family - who just happen to rule a large portion of Europe.</span><br />
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<br />Bookworm Brandeehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15834408515209743135noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6125233179936753205.post-14624589864408101192018-08-07T01:00:00.000-06:002018-08-07T01:00:05.279-06:00Release Day Review ~ Rock F*ck Club: A Postseason One Novella ~ Michelle Mankin @MichelleMankin #2018NewRelease #COYER<a href="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1490892561l/34367349.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Rock F*ck Club: A Postseason One Novella (Rock F*ck Club, #2)" height="320" src="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1532019248l/40604686.jpg" width="201" /></a><span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;"><b><i>Rock F*ck Club: A Postseason One Novella</i> by <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/5835506.Michelle_Mankin">Michelle Mankin</a></b></span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;"><b>Rock F*ck Club #2</b></span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;"><b>Release Date</b>: August 7, 2018</span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;"><b>Genre</b>: Adult, Contemporary Romance</span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;"><b>Source</b>: I received a complimentary copy from the author. This does not affect my opinion or rating. I voluntarily provided a review. I also purchased my own Kindle copy.</span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;"><b>Rating</b>: 4.5 Bookworms</span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;"><b>Challenges</b>: #2018NewRelease, #COYER</span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;"><b><a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/40604686-rock-f-ck-club">Goodreads</a></b></span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;"><b><br /></b></span><span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;"><b>Synopsis</b></span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">A Postseason One Novella</span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">10 cities. 10 famous rock stars f*cked.</span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">Raven Winters has chosen the one rock star she wants to keep. She has completed filming for the Rock F*ck Club. Her season of the reality show is about to debut on the World Media Organization channel.</span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">Her once very private sex life is about to become public.</span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">Can her life ever return to normal?</span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">Does she want it to?</span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">And what about the next season of RFC?</span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">Who will be the next star?</span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">Who will be f*cking whom?</span><br />
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<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;"><br /></span><span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">This novella - and it's meaty so it doesn't feel like a novella - is a treat! Getting to see Raven and Lucky and how they're faring was a delight. And we also got a glimpse of where RFC is going from here and that was exciting! </span><br />
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<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">The novella revolves around Raven and Lucky, of course. Seeing how they're working at maintaining their relationship, dealing with their newfound fame, the fallout over RFC, etc., felt realistic and genuine. I liked that it wasn't all hearts and roses because part of their relationship had been that way so I appreciated Mankin keeping it <i>real</i>. Lucky being the lead singer of a band with mounting popularity and, therefore touring more meant fans and being on the road were issues...also <i>real</i>. And being a fan of character growth, I was thrilled to see both Lucky and Raven - especially Raven - do some growing.</span><br />
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<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">The other plot threads - RFC's next season, Raven and Marsha's friendship, and the relationships of Lucky's band mates were all compelling and kept me flipping through the pages. I especially enjoyed Marsha's growing friendship with Lucky's sister, Sky, and it further developed Marsha's character. I'm excited about the direction Mankin seems to be taking with things.</span><br />
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<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">That ending! WOW!! It was a shocker and I am more than happy RFC #3 releases soon!</span><br />
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Bookworm Brandeehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15834408515209743135noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6125233179936753205.post-24156292312844777542018-08-06T01:00:00.000-06:002018-08-06T01:00:14.922-06:00New(ish) Release Review ~ Relentless ~ Elizabeth Dyer #2018NewRelease<a href="https://d.gr-assets.com/books/1390155121l/20577677.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Relentless (Somerton Security #2)" height="320" src="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1513868911l/36555711.jpg" width="212" /></a><span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;"><b><i>Relentless</i> by <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/17117605.Elizabeth_Dyer">Elizabeth Dyer</a></b></span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;"><b>Somerton Security #2</b></span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;"><b>Release Date</b>: June 12, 2018<br />
<b>Genre</b>: Adult, Romantic Suspense</span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;"><b>Source</b>: I received an eARC from Montlake Romance via Netgalley. This did not affect my rating and my review is provided voluntarily.</span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;"><b>Rating</b>: 3.5 Bookworms</span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;"><b>Challenges</b>: #2018NewRelease</span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;"><b><a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/36555711-relentless">Goodreads</a></b></span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;"><br />
</span><span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;"><b>Synopsis</b></span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">Ethan Somerton doesn't do safe or easy. He's all about the challenge. The <i>risk</i>. In order to rescue one of his agents, Ethan must infiltrate the ruthless Vega cartel. One tiny error - just one - and he's dead. Which means he needs Natalia Vega. Bright, beautiful, and cut sharper than the most lethal blade, she's finally reached her breaking point. Now Ethan must find a way to make her <i>surrender</i>.</span><br />
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</span> <span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">Caught between desperate choices and no-win situations, Natalia has survived the unthinkable by becoming dangerous, relentless, and feared. When it comes to protecting her sister, there's no line Natalia won't cross. But when Ethan storms into her life with his cocksure arrogance, stone-cold competence, and seductive promises, Natalia wonders if she's finally found a way out. But discovering whether Ethan is salvation or destruction is going to require the one thing Natalia doesn't have - trust.</span><br />
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</span> <span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">As the cartel implodes and loved ones are threatened, Ethan and Natalia are going to have to choose between love, loyalty, and the lies they cling to. They could run, knowing they'll never be safe. They could fight, knowing they'll probably die. Or they can trust in each other and do something <i>far</i> more dangerous.</span><br />
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<b><i>Relentless</i></b> was suspenseful with well-developed characters. There were a few times when they pacing slowed and a few places where I felt as thought Dyer "told" me rather than "showed" me but overall Ethan and Natalia's story served as a good introduction to Dyer's writing.</span><br />
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</span> <span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">What Worked:</span><br />
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<ul>
<li><span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">Premise<br />
Ethan, feeling guilt and a lack of control, must ingratiate himself with the Vega family in order to save a member of his team. The target is Natalia Vega and Ethan would do well not to take her at face value. Ethan has his team at his back as he works against the clock to win Natalia's trust - and maybe more? - and gain the intel he needs. The premise hooked me and kept me turning the pages.</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">Characters<br />
Dyer created a great cast with Ethan and Natalia at its center. She deftly conveyed the type of people Ethan and Natalia are - loyal to a fault, fearless, strong, smart - as well as demonstrating the close relationships they each have with the friends and family. I was particularly fond of the snark and wit shared between Ethan and his friends/team members, Parker and Georgia. These interactions served to illustrate Ethan's ability to trust whereas Natalia's interactions with her sister and others showed her intense lack thereof. Of course, her family runs a cartel so it was understandable.</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">Romance/Suspense<br />
I lumped these two together because as this is romantic suspense, they were inextricably linked. And Dyer did relatively well in developing the romance in a way that amped the suspense. Wondering if Ethan and Natalia could build on the intense chemistry they felt while also moving toward their goals, wondering what would happen if they had to make difficult choices, kept me turning the pages. The dual POV, delivered throughout the chapters rather than alternating, also worked well in conveying the romance and the suspense.</span></li>
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</span></div>
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<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">What Could Have Worked Better:</span></div>
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<ul>
<li><span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">Pacing<br />
There were points in the story where the pacing slowed...not something you want in romantic suspense. Most of these places occurred when Dyer "told" me what Ethan or Natalia was thinking or feeling where actions would have "shown" it more succinctly and would have kept the pace moving.</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">Romance<br />
While the chemistry between Ethan and Natalia was evident, I felt that their feelings occurred rather rapidly and mostly in their heads. If they'd spent a little more time together the romance would have felt more genuine.</span></li>
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<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;"><b><i>Relentless</i></b>, although #2 in the series, can be read as standalone. I was drawn into this world and these characters' lives deeply enough that I want to go back and read #1 as well as continue the series.</span></div>
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Bookworm Brandeehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15834408515209743135noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6125233179936753205.post-18853495158717917252018-08-04T07:30:00.000-06:002018-08-04T07:30:18.446-06:00#COYER Mini-Challenge Day #7 ~ It's Been a Week of Romantic Suspense<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://unconventionalbookviews.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/138/2018/05/COYER-SUMMER-Bash2-450x403.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-16820" height="403" src="https://unconventionalbookviews.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/138/2018/05/COYER-SUMMER-Bash2-450x403.png" width="450" /></a></div>
<br />
<h2 style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;">COYER Mini-Challenge: Romantic Suspense</span></h2>
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">Hey, hey! You made it to Day #7 of our Romantic Suspense Mini-Challenge. How did you do? Again, we sincerely hope you've enjoyed our mini-challenge and that you've created or rekindled a love of romantic suspense. </span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;"><br />
</span><span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">To put an end to the suspense (but not the romance), here's what Lexxie and I are up to...</span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;"><br />
</span><span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">We're getting married!! Er...merging our blogs. *wink* And you're all invited...to the reception!</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEVGI6N0UWBHpg2DdsJZz9zzyTtHKHvm4Ke24ciu6zOv1J9mMyJTmjoWaPmBG_czWVdHxiNgJi1DCzcCm5s9XypzJ-LNf9rj88HtxKC8h8-g2np4rv2HgkY15Fb0tHqqLY7vVgrEJEflA/s1600/38471757_685818555102467_5959044489275244544_n.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="1012" height="454" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEVGI6N0UWBHpg2DdsJZz9zzyTtHKHvm4Ke24ciu6zOv1J9mMyJTmjoWaPmBG_czWVdHxiNgJi1DCzcCm5s9XypzJ-LNf9rj88HtxKC8h8-g2np4rv2HgkY15Fb0tHqqLY7vVgrEJEflA/s640/38471757_685818555102467_5959044489275244544_n.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;"><br />
</span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">And the winner of my giveaway is.... Anne!</span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;"><br />
</span><a class="rcptr" data-raflid="255dba1029" data-template="" data-theme="classic" href="http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/255dba1029/" id="rcwidget_st6luuj3" rel="nofollow">a Rafflecopter giveaway</a><br />
<script src="https://widget-prime.rafflecopter.com/launch.js"></script>Bookworm Brandeehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15834408515209743135noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6125233179936753205.post-2749520876593566142018-08-03T01:00:00.000-06:002018-08-03T01:00:16.585-06:00#COYER Mini-Challenge Day #6 ~ Down to the Wire...Romantic Suspense<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://unconventionalbookviews.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/138/2018/05/COYER-SUMMER-Bash2-450x403.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-16820" height="403" src="https://unconventionalbookviews.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/138/2018/05/COYER-SUMMER-Bash2-450x403.png" width="450" /></a></div>
<br />
<h2 style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;">COYER Mini-Challenge: Romantic Suspense</span></h2>
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">Hey there! Welcome to Day #6 of our Romantic Suspense Mini-Challenge. Your down to the wire...have you read all 3 books? Did you enjoy them all? We sincerely hope you have enjoyed our mini-challenge and that you've created or rekindled a love of romantic suspense. As for me, I finished <i><b>Relentless</b></i> by Elizabeth Dyer and am still working on <b><i>Rescuing Rayne</i></b> by Susan Stoker. </span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">So, have y'all figured out what Lexxie and I are up to? What are your ideas? I'm curious what you think. Here's the final installment:</span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;"><br /></span><span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">The end...</span><br />
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<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">It seems like the next natural step for us. It isn't something we took lightly. We tiptoed around the idea, neither of us seeming to want to commit. Until we did. We chatted for months, making plans, coming up with ideas. It's taken time, a lot of planning, and a lot of learning. In the end though, we think it's going to be perfect.</span></blockquote>
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">...is a new beginning!</span><br />
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<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;"><br />
Don't forget to get your entries in the Rafflecopter!</span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;"><br />
</span> <a class="rcptr" data-raflid="255dba1029" data-template="" data-theme="classic" href="http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/255dba1029/" id="rcwidget_st6luuj3" rel="nofollow">a Rafflecopter giveaway</a><br />
<script src="https://widget-prime.rafflecopter.com/launch.js"></script>Bookworm Brandeehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15834408515209743135noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6125233179936753205.post-43299660711158122742018-08-02T01:00:00.000-06:002018-08-02T01:00:06.657-06:00#COYER Mini-Challenge Day #5 ~ Loving Romantic Suspense?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://unconventionalbookviews.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/138/2018/05/COYER-SUMMER-Bash2-450x403.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-16820" height="403" src="https://unconventionalbookviews.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/138/2018/05/COYER-SUMMER-Bash2-450x403.png" width="450" /></a></div>
<br />
<h2 style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;">COYER Mini-Challenge: Romantic Suspense</span></h2>
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">Hey y'all! Welcome to Day #5 of our Romantic Suspense Mini-Challenge. Have you read all 3 books? Have you decided you need more romantic suspense in your reading diet? Tell me how it's going. I finished <i><b>Relentless</b></i> by Elizabeth Dyer, and I ended up enjoying it. My review will post soon. :) I'm now reading <b><i>Rescuing Rayne</i></b> by Susan Stoker. It'll probably be the last one I finish...if I can manage that. </span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;"><br />
</span><span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">Continuing with our story... be sure to check back tomorrow for the *final* installment.</span><br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">It was a big step, bringing everyone together, but we decided it was time. It was no small feat getting her family (minus 2) over to my continent but we did it. I was worried - can you tell that's my constant state? - about how her family would feel about me...my family...my home. But I shouldn't have. Everyone got along splendidly even if there was a language barrier and we all had a great time. And it was more proof that things - our meeting and being a part of each others' lives - were meant to be!</span></blockquote>
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;"><br />
</span> <span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">Don't forget to get your entries in the Rafflecopter!</span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;"><br />
</span> <a class="rcptr" data-raflid="255dba1029" data-template="" data-theme="classic" href="http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/255dba1029/" id="rcwidget_st6luuj3" rel="nofollow">a Rafflecopter giveaway</a><br />
<script src="https://widget-prime.rafflecopter.com/launch.js"></script>Bookworm Brandeehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15834408515209743135noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6125233179936753205.post-66226427991588034662018-07-31T01:00:00.000-06:002018-07-31T01:00:07.777-06:00#COYER Mini-Challenge Day #3 ~ Are You Enjoying Your Romantic Suspense?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://unconventionalbookviews.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/138/2018/05/COYER-SUMMER-Bash2-450x403.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-16820" height="403" src="https://unconventionalbookviews.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/138/2018/05/COYER-SUMMER-Bash2-450x403.png" width="450" /></a></div>
<br />
<h2 style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;">COYER Mini-Challenge: Romantic Suspense</span></h2>
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">Hey there! Welcome to Day #3 of our Romantic Suspense Mini-Challenge. How's it going so far? Are you enjoying your romantic suspense? What books have you read? I'm about halfway through <i><b>Relentless</b></i> by Elizabeth Dyer, and I'm still enjoying it. I just wish I read faster! </span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;"><br />
</span><span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">Continuing with our story... be sure to check back tomorrow for the next installment.</span><br />
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</span><br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">I had thought first contact was nerve-racking. It was nothing compared to actually meeting in person. We'd decided on neutral ground for our first face-to-face. She had arrived ahead of me and I found myself wondering if she was as nervous as I? We'd spent time connecting, getting to know each other's likes and dislikes, things we had in common, but things might be different in person. Isn't that what they warn about when "meeting" people online? The butterflies in my stomach felt like bats as the taxi pulled up to my destination. They didn't calm as I entered the establishment. Then I saw her. And when our gazes met, I knew I'd been right about her. </span></blockquote>
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;"><br />
</span><span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;"><br />
Don't forget to get your entries in the Rafflecopter!</span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;"><br />
</span> <br />
<a class="rcptr" data-raflid="255dba1029" data-template="" data-theme="classic" href="http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/255dba1029/" id="rcwidget_st6luuj3" rel="nofollow">a Rafflecopter giveaway</a><br />
<script src="https://widget-prime.rafflecopter.com/launch.js"></script>Bookworm Brandeehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15834408515209743135noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6125233179936753205.post-52555820400247472122018-07-30T01:00:00.000-06:002018-07-30T01:00:00.846-06:00New(ish) Release Review ~ Hot Asset ~ Lauren Layne #2018NewRelease<a href="https://d.gr-assets.com/books/1390155121l/20577677.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Hot Asset (21 Wall Street, #1)" height="320" src="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1512682291l/36307262.jpg" width="213" /></a><span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;"><b><i>Hot Asset</i> by <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/6969772.Lauren_Layne">Lauren Layne</a></b></span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;"><b>21 Wall Street #1</b></span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;"><b>Release Date</b>: May 22, 2018<br />
<b>Genre</b>: Adult, Contemporary Romance</span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;"><b>Source</b>: I received an eARC from Montlake Romance via Netgalley. This did not affect my rating and my review is provided voluntarily.</span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;"><b>Rating</b>: 4 Bookworms</span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;"><b>Challenges</b>: #2018NewRelease</span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;"><b><a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/36307262-hot-asset">Goodreads</a></b></span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;"><br />
</span><span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;"><b>Synopsis</b></span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">Ian Bradley is the definition of a Wall Street hotshot: seven-figure salary, designer suits, and a corner office. His drive <i>off</i> the floor is just as potent. Every woman who knows him has felt the rush. But now he's met his match in Lara McKenzie - a woman with the power to bring Ian to <i>his</i> knees.</span><br />
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</span> <span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">An ambitious, whip-smart daughter of FBI agents, Lara is a rising star in fighting white-collar crime. Her latest case - the investigation of Ian Bradley for insider trading - could make her career. She knows a scoundrel when she sees one. Ian fits the bill: a cocky, ridiculously handsome bad boy with a slick swagger. </span><br />
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</span> <span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">She'll do anything to prove he's guilty. He'll do anything to prove he's not. But it's only a matter of time before their fierce battle of wits gets <i>oh so hot</i> and personal. Now, taking down Ian has become more than business for Lara. It's become a pleasure - and there's more at risk than she ever dreamed.</span><br />
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I'd never read Lauren Layne before. *hangs head* I know, I know. But I honestly think I picked a great story to serve as my introduction to her writing. <i><b>Hot Asset</b></i> was funny, romantic, suspenseful, and HOT! I absolutely enjoyed every minute.</span><br />
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</span> <span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">Ian Bradley, a man who has climbed from essentially the streets to become one of Wall Street's elite, finds himself in hot water. Not only is he under investigation by the SEC but he's also insanely attracted to the investigator. And they <i>may</i> have gotten off to a rough start. ;)</span><br />
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</span> <span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">Lara McKenzie, an SEC investigator with her sights set on the FBI, prides herself on being thorough and following protocol to the "T". In her investigation of Ian, she finds herself in uncharted territory. Not only is she attracted to Ian but she's also hoping he's not guilty while also wanting him to be because he's just the sort of high profile case in which a win would guarantee her the FBI's notice.</span><br />
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</span> <span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">The character development and growth of Ian and Lara was impressive and y'all know how I like that. Both Ian and Lara slowly come to realize what was really important to them and I appreciated how LLayne handled the delicate navigation of the laws where Ian and Lara were concerned. Their histories and backgrounds, also slowing revealed, helped develop their characters, explaining the things that defined them. I haven't read any (that I recall) books set on Wall Street like this and I liked the relevancy of the topic. And I most admired how LLayne developed the romance. The attraction between Ian and Lara was abvious and I quite enjoyed the snarky banter. But as things advance between them, even with the chemistry being electric, it all felt organic and realistic.</span><br />
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</span> <span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">LLayne also created a wonderful secondary cast, which is brilliant seeing as this is the first in this series and I'm now extremely eager to get Ian's friends' stories. Besides serving to hook me into wanting to read the next in the series, Matt, Sabrina, Kennedy, and Kate also served to give depth not only to Ian and Lara but also to the story overall. The interactions between them all further conveyed the type of people Ian and Lara are.</span><br />
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</span> <span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;"><b><i>Hot Asset</i></b> was an exciting read with an inherently readable story, compelling characters, humor, a little suspense, and a completely satisfying romance. LLayne is one of my favorite new-to-me authors of 2018!</span><br />
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Bookworm Brandeehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15834408515209743135noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6125233179936753205.post-57378679918925761952018-07-30T00:30:00.000-06:002018-07-30T00:30:01.833-06:00#COYER Mini-Challenge ~ Join Us for Some Romantic Suspense Day #2<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://unconventionalbookviews.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/138/2018/05/COYER-SUMMER-Bash2-450x403.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-16820" height="403" src="https://unconventionalbookviews.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/138/2018/05/COYER-SUMMER-Bash2-450x403.png" width="450" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">COYER Mini-Challenge: Romantic Suspense</span></h2>
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">Hello and welcome to Day #2 of our Romantic Suspense Mini-Challenge. How's it going? Are you enjoying your romantic suspense? I'm reading an ARC I got awhile back - <i><b>Relentless</b></i> by Elizabeth Dyer. It's pretty good so far. Tell me about what you're reading. What do you plan to read next?</span><br />
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</span> <span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">And now that that first little bit o' fun... each day you'll get a little more of this story.</span><br />
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<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">I've been watching her for awhile. She's beautiful. And she's funny but she's also smart. I can tell. She seems like the kind of woman I could connect with. She intrigued me from the start but I had to be ready before making contact. I'm not sure I'm ready but it's time. I don't want to wait any longer. I'm quite nervous. I've never done this sort of thing before. What will she think? Will she like what I have to say? Will she care? Will she like...<i>me</i>? I bite my lip and wring my hands in anxiety. I take a deep breath. I have to be brave. I have to pluck up the courage or I'll never know. Right? Right. Another deep breath. And I push the button.</span></blockquote>
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Stay tuned for the next installment... and be sure to get your entries in the Rafflecopter!</span><br />
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<a class="rcptr" data-raflid="255dba1029" data-template="" data-theme="classic" href="http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/255dba1029/" id="rcwidget_st6luuj3" rel="nofollow">a Rafflecopter giveaway</a><br />
<script src="https://widget-prime.rafflecopter.com/launch.js"></script>Bookworm Brandeehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15834408515209743135noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6125233179936753205.post-17330336645779006602018-07-29T11:23:00.000-06:002018-07-29T11:23:28.658-06:00#COYER Mini-Challenge ~ Let's Read Some Romantic Suspense!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-size: large;">COYER Mini-Challenge: Romantic Suspense</span></h2>
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">Hello all :) Welcome to our COYER Mini-Challenge for Romantic Suspense! Lexxie <a href="http://unconventionalbookviews.com/">@(un)Conventional Bookviews</a> and I are so happy to have you :)</span><br />
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</span> <span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">This challenge is pretty straight forward - read three romantic suspense books this next week, one book that you've bought, one you've borrowed - either from the library or a friend, and one you've received for free - either a gift, or an ARC.</span><br />
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</span> <span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">We both love romantic suspense, because there is a little bit of angst to go with the romance, and sometimes, the suspense parts are so good we just can't wait to flip to the next page. Plus, having romance in those books just makes everything a bit more bearable, are we right? </span><br />
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</span><span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">And since we love our romantic suspense, we have something we hope will be fun for y'all. It's a little romantic and a bit suspenseful. Starting tomorrow, we'll give y'all a bit of a story leading up to something we have in the works...and if you can guess what that something is, you get an extra entry in the giveaway.</span><br />
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<a class="rcptr" data-raflid="255dba1029" data-template="" data-theme="classic" href="http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/255dba1029/" id="rcwidget_st6luuj3" rel="nofollow">a Rafflecopter giveaway</a><br />
<script src="https://widget-prime.rafflecopter.com/launch.js"></script>Bookworm Brandeehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15834408515209743135noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6125233179936753205.post-77278317829629745432018-07-25T01:00:00.000-06:002018-07-25T01:00:12.398-06:00Blogger Chick-Reader Chick Chat Review ~ Driven ~ K. Bromberg #COYER #ShelfLove<a href="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1513702904l/36048542.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Driven (Driven, #1)" height="320" src="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1462922351l/30164950.jpg" width="206" /></a><span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;"><b><i>Driven</i> by <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/7047863.K_Bromberg">K. Bromberg</a></b></span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;"><b>Driven #1</b></span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;"><b>Release Date</b>: December 25, 2013</span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;"><b>Genre</b>: Adult, Contemporary Romance</span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;"><b>Source</b>: Purchased on Nook</span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;"><b>Rating</b>: 4 Bookworms</span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;"><b>Challenges</b>: #COYER, #ShelfLove</span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;"><b><a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/30164950-driven">Goodreads</a></b></span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;"><br /></span><span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;"><b>Synopsis</b></span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;"><b>Rylee Thomas is used to being in control. But she's about to meet the one man that just might make her enjoy losing it...</b></span><br />
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<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">I am the exception to the rule.</span><br />
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<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">In a world full of willing women, I'm a challenge to the roguish and achingly handsome Colton Donavan. A man used to getting exactly what he wants in all aspects of life. He's the reckless bad boy constantly skating that razor thin edge toward out of control, on and off of the track.</span><br />
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<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">Colton crashes into my life like a tornado: sapping my control, testing my vulnerabilities beyond their limits, and unintentionally penetrating the protective wall around my healing heart. Tearing apart the world I rebuilt so carefully with structure, predictability, and discipline.</span><br />
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<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;"><i>I can't give him what he wants and he can't give me what I need.</i> But after a glimpse beneath his refined exterior into the dark secrets of his damaged soul, can I bring myself to walk away?</span><br />
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<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">Our sexual chemistry is undeniable. Our individual need for complete control is irrefutable. But when our worlds collide, is the chemistry enough to bring us together or will our untold secrets and battle of wills force us apart?</span><br />
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<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">Yay! Denise and I have another Book Bonanza buddy read/chat review under our belts! We have another one coming and even though Book Bonanza is over, I think we'll continue with these buddy reads and chats. Enjoy!</span><br />
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<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;"><br /></span><span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">Me: Yay! Another Book Bonanza buddy read under our belts!</span><br />
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<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">While <b><i>Driven</i></b> was a bit angsty for me at times, I'm completely invested in Rylee and Colton, as individuals and as a couple.</span><br />
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<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">1. Rylee and Colton's initial meeting was comedic despite the circumstances that created it. They both felt such an immediate connection. How do you feel about the way Bromberg handled that connection throughout the book?</span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;"><br /></span><span style="color: #b45f06; font-size: large;">Denise: Bromberg kept the connection hot and lusty. I felt that the first meeting with its fiery lust was going to be the highlight of the connection but I was completely wrong. They have a connection that they cannot fight even as they both try.</span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;"><br /></span><span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">It was definitely a case of insta-lust but I liked that Rylee fought the attraction and Colton despite his fierce determination. I agreed with Rylee in that part of Colton's attraction to her was that she said "no" but clearly it was more and became so much more.</span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;"><br /></span><span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;"><br /></span><span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;"><br /></span><span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">2) How do you feel about the reasons behind both Rylee's and Colton's attempts to keep distance between them? </span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;"><br /></span><span style="color: #b45f06; font-size: large;">Both characters have some very dep emotional reasons for wanting distance. Although they are very different, they both run very deep and have closed themselves off. It was very difficult to hear Rylee's story but the bits and pieces of Colton's that we have seen are very disturbing and we still don't know the whole story. So while Rylee's reasons are very sad, Colton's just piss me off.</span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;"><br /></span><span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">Rylee's reasons - which we become intimately aware of - broke my heart. And she hasn't shared everything yet - at least with Colton. To experience all she did and then to be treated the way she was by people she trusted (at least I assume she trusted) was awful. She's certainly scarred physically and emotionally, and rightfully so.</span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">Colton's reasons we're only guessing at and I'm getting an idea they aren't pretty. They must be beyond terrible if the life he was eventually gifted wasn't able to help him heal at all.</span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;"><br /></span><span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;"><br /></span><span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;"><br /></span><span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">3) What do you think about Rylee's profession and how it relates to Colton's issues?</span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;"><br /></span><span style="color: #b45f06; font-size: large;">I believe the work she does helps her relate to Colton but as in many situations it is hard to see things in your personal life even if it is part of your work life. Rylee is very giving and definitely not selfish in any way but still has difficulty dealing with some situations due to it affecting her heart and not her job.</span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;"><br /></span><span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">I love that she's working to help a population that is probably largely ignored. I think it helps her deal and heal from some of what she's gone through. And it puts her at an advantage in knowing how to approach Colton at times. I find it ironic that Colton believes he's so irrevocably damanged and yet you can "feel" his hope that Rylee will be the one to heal him.</span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;"><br /></span><span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;"><br /></span><span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;"><br /></span><span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">4) And that brings me to wondering how you felt about the push and pull between these two and the angst is caused.</span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;"><br /></span><span style="color: #b45f06; font-size: large;">As you read the story it is obvious that they care for each other but they can never be on the same page at the same time. The push and pull makes for a great story but at times I just wanted to tell them to get their act together and get on the same page.</span><br />
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<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">I did feel it was mighty angsty at times and while I don't mind angst, there were times I wanted to shake them both and yell "Make up your mind!" Honestly, that was the only downside to the story so far.</span><br />
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<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">Overall, I liked the story, the plot, and the character development. I'm impressed with Bromberg considering this was her debut. And I'm anxious to start <b><i>Fueled</i></b> - which I know you've already finished. I'm eager to get the story behind all of Colton's demons and to see him healed...because I know he's capable of being "fixed."</span><br />
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<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;"><span style="color: #b45f06;">It is a great story. I love the chemistry. Broberg really knows how to write a cliffhanger which makes you buy the next book at 11 p.m.!!!!</span></span><span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;"><br /><br /><br /></span><span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">In the end, both Denise and I gave <i><b>Driven</b></i> 4 Bookworms and I know we'll be continuing the series...Denise is already one ahead of me!</span><br />
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Bookworm Brandeehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15834408515209743135noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6125233179936753205.post-15953217892803783572018-07-24T01:00:00.000-06:002018-07-24T01:00:06.274-06:00Release Day Review ~ The Sexpert ~ JA Huss & Johnathan McClain (@JAHuss @MisterJMcClain) #2018NewRelease<a href="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1487186318l/34007242.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="The Sexpert" height="320" src="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1531153364l/40749134.jpg" width="213" /></a><span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;"><b><i>The Sexpert</i> by <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/6446815.J_A_Huss">JA Huss</a> & <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/5804223.Johnathan_McClain">Johnathan McClain</a></b></span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;"><b>Tall, Dark & Handsome #1</b></span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;"><b>Release Date</b>: July 24, 2018</span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;"><b>Genre</b>: Adult, Contemporary Romance, Romantic Comedy</span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;"><b>Source</b>: I received an eARC from the authors. This did not affect my rating and I voluntarily provided a review.</span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;"><b>Rating</b>: 4.5 Bookworms</span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;"><b>Challenges</b>: #2018NewRele</span><span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">ase</span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;"><b><a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/40749134-the-sexpert">Goodreads</a></b></span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;"><b><br />
</b></span><span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;"><b>Synopsis</b></span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">EDEN</span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;"><br />
</span> <span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">I'm just a simple girl who likes dessert. And sexy men. And social media. So starting an anonymous video channel call The Sexpert as a side hustle to make up for my low-paying marketing job at Le Man Magazine seemed like a perfectly sensible career decision. Until we went viral, my boss accused my anonymous personality of stealing his idea, and now my super sexy new boyfriend, Andrew, is out to get me.</span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;"><br />
</span> <span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">Her. Me. Whatever.</span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;"><br />
</span> <span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">ANDREW</span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;"><br />
</span> <span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">I don't want it to be her. I do not want this... sweet, delicious, shy social media nerd working at my best friend's magazine to be the face behind those perky cupcakes on the Sexpert channel. I don't want it to be her... because I like her. A lot. She's funny, and quirky, and smart, and creative... and... I really, really like her. It just can't be her.</span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;"><br />
</span> <span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">But it is.</span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">And now I have to choose.</span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">My best friend?</span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">Or... The Sexpert?</span><br />
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<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;"><br />
</span><span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">I met up with JA and Johnathan - actually met Johnathan for the first time - at Book Bonanze the night after I finished <i><b>The Sexpert</b></i>. The first think I did was ask JA if the TDH (Tall, Dark & Handsome) neighborhood was real. Okay, I actually first said how much fun the book was but I seriously was dying to know. It's not real. Phew! I know I'm out of the loop but I was hoping I wasn't that out of it. ;)</span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;"><br />
</span> <span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">Anyway, Huss and McClain's foray into the world of romantic comedy was a fun time. It was the perfect blanace of comedy and romance and it dealt with relevant topics as well as taking us along for the ride for the journey of self-discovery both Eden and Andrew found themselves on.</span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;"><br />
</span> <span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">Eden meets Andrew on a day that's seeminly indicating her life is changine...and all for the better. Then things take a downturn when she finds out Andrew - this guy she could really, really like, is tasked by her boss to figure out who the person behind The Sexpert is so he can sue her for intellectual property theft.</span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;"><br />
</span> <span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">Andrew meets Eden on his first morning in town and he thinks Denver is looking mighty nice. The shine begins to fade a little when he starts thinking that the girl he just met - a girl that he could really, really like - might be the person behind The Sexpert and therefore his best friend's nemesis.</span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;"><br />
</span> <span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">Y'all, the premise hooked me and the characters reeled me in. I adored Eden's awkward quirkiness and I enjoyed Andrew's artistic and compassionate way of looking at things. Their interactions were entertaining no matter what they were doing - looking at art or mountains, discussing work or sex. That they couldn't ignore the pull they felt despire knowing they could each make life messy for the other was fun and compelling. And I appreciated how they each learned so much about themselves in the process of trying to figure out how to do the right thing - decide what the <i>right</i> thing even was. Sigh. So good.</span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;"><br />
</span> <span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">I look forward to more in this series and hope to see more of Eden and Andrew. Huss and McClain impressed me here. RomCom from this duo seems promising and I'm excited.</span><br />
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Bookworm Brandeehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15834408515209743135noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6125233179936753205.post-43981492664395304332018-07-19T01:00:00.000-06:002018-07-19T01:00:13.472-06:00New(er) Release Review ~ Before and Again ~ Barbara Delinsky #2018NewRelease<a href="https://d.gr-assets.com/books/1390155121l/20577677.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Before and Again" height="320" src="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1507052285l/36347853.jpg" width="210" /></a><span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;"><b><i>Before and Again</i> by <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/36492.Barbara_Delinsky">Barbara Delinsky</a></b></span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;"><b>Release Date</b>: June 26, 2018<br />
<b>Genre</b>: Adult, Contemporary, Fiction</span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;"><b>Source</b>: I received an eARC from St. Martin's via Netgalley. This did not affect my rating and my review is provided voluntarily.</span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;"><b>Rating</b>: 4 Bookworms</span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;"><b>Challenges</b>: #2018NewRelease</span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;"><b><a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/36347853-before-and-again">Goodreads</a></b></span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;"><br />
</span><span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;"><b>Synopsis</b></span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">Mackenzie Cooper took her eyes off the road for just a moment but the resulting collision was enough to rob her not only of her beloved daughter but ultimately of her marriage, family, and friends - and thanks to the nonstop media coverage, even her privacy. Now she lives in Vermont under the name Maggie Reid, in a small house with her cats and dog. She's thankful for the new friends she's made - though she can't risk telling them too much. ANd she takes satisfaction in working as a makeup artist at the luxurious local spa, helping clients hide the visible outward signs of their weariness, illnesses, and injuries. Covering up scars is a skill she has mastered.</span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;"><br />
</span> <span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">Her only goal is to stay under the radar and make it through her remaining probation. But she isn't the only one in this peaceful town with secrets. When a friend's teenage son is thrust into the national spotlight, accused of hacking a powerful man's Twitter account, Maggie is torn between pulling away and protecting herself - or stepping into the glare to be at their side. As the stunning truth behind their case is slowly revealed, Maggie's own carefully constructed story begins to unravel as well. She knows all too well that what we need from each other in this difficult world is comfort. But to provide it, sometimes we need to travel far outside our comfort zones.</span><br />
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<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;"><br />
I knew here name but I'd never read BDelinsky before. The synopsis of <i><b>Before and Again</b></i> intrigued me though so I requested it. I'm so happy I did. Delinsky delivered a character-driven, captivating story dealing with love, loss, guilt, forgiveness, and what it means to be a true friend.</span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;"><br />
</span><span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;"><b>Highlights</b></span><br />
<ul>
<li><span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">Characters<br />
Maggie (Mackenzie) is the central character and she was a woman I wanted to wrap up in a big, warm hug. She's endured so much and has built a new life in a small, quiet town, and made new friends. She's on a journey of self-discovery of sorts and she's forced to learn a lot about herself when her past shows up in her present, along with helping a new friend face a challenge. The supporting cast was also well-developed where it needed to be - especially Maggie's friends and Edward. I admired how Delinsky created a close-knit community where, for the most part, people rallied around their own even if "their own" weren't life-long residents. That's something I really enjoy about small town settings.</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">Plot<br />
Delinsky deftly wove together plot threads from past and present as Maggie put together the puzzle of her life. I appreciated how Maggie's past was dealt with and how the present, particularly helping Grace deal with her problem - something Maggie wished she'd had friends do for her - tied those threads together with the present enabling Maggie to see a real future for the first time in a long while.</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">Message (for lack of a better term)<br />
Before and Again deals with some weighty topics but does so adroitly. I liked what Maggie's story seemed to say aobut how our pasts shape us, are a part of us but don't define us. I liked the element of forgiveness - of others but especially ourselves. I also liked the ways in which Maggie learned about love - familial and romantic - and friendship - what it means to be a good daughter, wife, and friend.</span></li>
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<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;"><br />
</span> <span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">I'm delighted with my introduction to Delinsky and will definitely be reading more from her.</span></div>
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Bookworm Brandeehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15834408515209743135noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6125233179936753205.post-9175795123941624782018-07-17T01:00:00.000-06:002018-07-17T01:00:19.819-06:00Audio Review ~ Even the Score ~ Beth Ehemann #AudioChallenge #COYER<a href="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1490892561l/34367349.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Even the Score" src="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1481769518l/33389523.jpg" /></a><span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;"><b><i>Even the Score</i> by <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/7131935.Beth_Ehemann">Beth Ehemann</a></b></span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;"><b>Narrated by</b>: <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/6612314.Christian_Fox">Christian Fox</a> and <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/6889454.Lucy_Rivers">Lucy Rivers</a></span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;"><b>Release Date</b>: September 6, 2016</span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;"><b>Genre</b>: Adult, Contemporary Romance</span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;"><b>Source</b>: Purchased on Audible</span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;"><b>Rating</b>: 4 Bookworms</span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;"><b>Challenges</b>: </span><span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">#AudioChallenge, #COYER, #ShelfLove</span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;"><b><a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/33389523-even-the-score">Goodreads</a></b></span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;"><b><br /></b></span><span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;"><b>Synopsis</b></span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">Single dad Andy Shaw loves his job as a sports agent, with one exception: it doesn't leave him much time for his kids. No parent likes being sidelined, so Andy decides to hire someone to share the workload. But when one of the hottest agents in the industry applies, Andy knows that this deal is definitely trouble.</span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">Danicka Douglas works her butt off, but being an attractive woman in a testosterone-heavy industry isn't exactly a cakewalk. She guards her professional reputation fiercely, which means no crushing on her gorgeous boss. But the more they ignore that sexy little spark, the more it sizzles...</span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">Just when it looks like romance might be in the plan, Dani is threatened by a stalker with dark intentions. To keep her safe, Andy must cross the line between professional and very personal...because this time, he's playing for keeps.</span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;"><br /></span><span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;"><i><br /></i></span><br />
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<span style="color: #38761d; font-family: coming soon; font-size: large;"><span style="background-color: white; white-space: pre-wrap;"><b><i>Even the Score</i></b> was my first Beth Ehemann read and I'm eager to read her backlist now so I can get the stories behind a few of the characters I met here. Andy and Danicka's story was one I enjoyed even though I wished a few things had been handled differently.</span></span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d; font-family: coming soon; font-size: large;"><span style="background-color: white; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="color: #38761d; font-family: coming soon; font-size: large;"><span style="background-color: white; white-space: pre-wrap;"><b>What Worked:</b></span></span><br />
<br />
<ul>
<li><span style="color: #38761d; font-family: coming soon; font-size: large;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Characters
Andy is a good guy. A single dad who has built his business and life around providing for his kids. In order to spend more time with them he decides to take on a partner - enter Danicka.
Danicka is a strong and intelligent woman making a name for herself in a male-dominated profession. I liked them both, who they were as individuals - loyal and compassionate and funny - and I liked them together. They built a friendship first and then worked at the more.</span></span></li>
<li><span style="color: #38761d; font-family: coming soon; font-size: large;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Plot
The circumstances that enabled Andy and Danicka to get closer, while maybe a little predictable, felt realistic. Ehemann was able to surprise me with the reveal which kinda shocked me. I appreciated the suspense and tension these circumstances created. I also liked the sports management element which kept me guessing.</span></span></li>
<li><span style="color: #38761d; font-family: coming soon; font-size: large;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Romance
This is a slow-burn and it worked. There were many things to consider before going in - Andy and Danicka's work relationship, Andy's kids, their pasts - but I liked how Ehemann made it all work.</span></span></li>
<li><span style="color: #38761d; font-family: coming soon; font-size: large;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Narration
I admit to having grabbed this book because I adore Christian Fox's narration. And he proved once again why he's one of my favorites. His delivery, his pacing, his voices...gah! I just love him. Lucy Rivers is a narrator I enjoy as well and that's a good thing since she's routinely paired with Christian Fox. ;) </span></span></li>
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<span style="color: #38761d; font-family: coming soon; font-size: large;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">
<b>What Could Have Worked Better:</b></span></span></div>
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<ul>
<li><span style="color: #38761d; font-family: coming soon; font-size: large;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Danicka's Issues
I felt like there were things - like her being raised by a single dad - that could have been explored more which would have given her more depth and complexity.</span></span></li>
<li><span style="color: #38761d; font-family: coming soon; font-size: large;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">The Reveal
The reveal honestly surprised me but at the same time, I think it was tied up way too neatly. That part wasn't realistic all things considered.</span></span></li>
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<span style="color: #38761d; font-family: coming soon; font-size: large;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Overall, I liked <i><b>Even the Score</b></i> and I'll be adding more of Ehemann's books to my library. </span></span></div>
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Bookworm Brandeehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15834408515209743135noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6125233179936753205.post-83825339920069368132018-07-04T01:00:00.000-06:002018-07-04T01:00:10.457-06:00Blogger Chick Chat Review ~ Bad at Love ~ Karina Halle #2018NewRelease #AudioChallenge<a href="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1490892561l/34367349.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img src="https://tantor-site-assets.s3.amazonaws.com/images/books/238x238/K0696_BadLove-238x238.jpg" /></a><span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;"><b><i>Bad at Love</i> by <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/4785031.Karina_Halle">Karina Halle</a></b></span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">Narrated by: <a href="https://tantor.com/narrator/cornell-collins.html">Cornell Collins</a> and <a href="https://tantor.com/narrator/jo-raylan.html">Jo Raylan</a></span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;"><b>Release Date</b>: March 27, 2018</span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;"><b>Genre</b>: Adult, Contemporary Romance</span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;"><b>Source</b>: I received a complimentary copy from Tantor Audio. This did not affect my rating and my review is provided voluntarily.</span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;"><b>Rating</b>: 4.5 Bookworms</span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;"><b>Challenges</b>: </span><span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">#2018NewRelease, #AudioChallenge</span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;"><b><a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/36602086-bad-at-love">Goodreads</a></b></span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;"><b><br /></b></span><span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;"><b>Synopsis</b></span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;"><i>She's bad at love, but he's even worse...</i></span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">Marina is hot, blonde, and wickedly smart, but when it comes to men? She's hopeless. Between her quirks and her lack of filter, there isn't a man in Los Angeles that will stick around after the third date.</span><br />
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<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">Her handsome, charming friend Lazarus has the opposite problem. Everyone wants to be the sexy Brit's girlfriend, but he gets bored and moves on quickly.</span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">There's only one way to figure out why neither of them has cracked this love thing -- they'll date each other. On paper, it's the perfect experiment. But in reality, things between Marina and Laz get complicated quickly.</span><br />
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<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">They might be bad at love, but they are even worse at being friends.</span><br />
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<span style="color: #38761d; font-family: "coming soon"; font-size: large;"><span style="background-color: white; white-space: pre-wrap;">Hi wifey! I'm so happy we buddy read <i><b>Bad at Love</b></i> - you know, Karina Halle seems to be our "go-to" author for these. ;) Okay, let's chat!</span></span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d; font-family: "coming soon"; font-size: large;"><span style="background-color: white; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="color: #38761d; font-family: "coming soon"; font-size: large;"><span style="background-color: white; white-space: pre-wrap;">What did you think of Laz's serial monogamy?</span></span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d; font-family: "coming soon"; font-size: large;"><span style="background-color: white; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="color: #38761d; font-family: "coming soon"; font-size: large;"><span style="background-color: white; white-space: pre-wrap;">Me: I found it very interesting that he dated for periods of time but always had a girl to move to immediately - and that it was easy because he never got close to a girl or let them get close to him. It said a lot about his feelings on relationships even though he felt he was doing a <i>good</i> thing.</span></span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d; font-family: "coming soon"; font-size: large;"><span style="background-color: white; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="color: #741b47; font-family: "coming soon"; font-size: large;"><span style="background-color: white; white-space: pre-wrap;">Lex: I thought that Laz's serial monogamy was a way for him to not be alone, but also to not be invested. He made himself believe what he did was OK, because he didn't cheat. However, he also didn't really give his girlfriends a chance, as he always knew there was an expiration date.</span></span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d; font-family: "coming soon"; font-size: large;"><span style="background-color: white; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="color: #38761d; font-family: "coming soon"; font-size: large;"><span style="background-color: white; white-space: pre-wrap;">And what about Laz's career? Poet? Lead singer of a cover band?</span></span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d; font-family: "coming soon"; font-size: large;"><span style="background-color: white; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="color: #38761d; font-family: "coming soon"; font-size: large;"><span style="background-color: white; white-space: pre-wrap;">I felt both were ways to keep people from really knowing him since poetry is open to interpretation and singing someone else's lyrics allows you to hide. Both were brilliant ways to develop Laz's character and convey the issues he had due to his past. But I loved that he was open with Marina - showed her his true self - and it was easy with her.</span></span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d; font-family: "coming soon"; font-size: large;"><span style="background-color: white; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="color: #741b47; font-family: "coming soon"; font-size: large;"><span style="background-color: white; white-space: pre-wrap;">Yummy! I loved both his poetry and his music - even when he sang cover songs, he kind of did make them his own. But yeah, he always took the safe road, not taking risks or showing anyone who he really was. I loved his and Marina's friendship too - you know friends to lovers stories are among my favorites, and with <i><b>Bad at Love</b></i>, that was one of the things that really made me swoon.</span></span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d; font-family: "coming soon"; font-size: large;"><span style="background-color: white; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="color: #38761d; font-family: "coming soon"; font-size: large;"><span style="background-color: white; white-space: pre-wrap;">Marina was quirky and I loved her for it. How do you think her childhood influenced her career and relationship choices?</span></span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d; font-family: "coming soon"; font-size: large;"><span style="background-color: white; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="color: #38761d; font-family: "coming soon"; font-size: large;"><span style="background-color: white; white-space: pre-wrap;">I adored the bee lady! She was out to save everyone - and the planet - one bee at a time. So her career said a lot about her need to save since she was unable to save someone close to her and I think she felt she failed at saving another someone close to her as well. Her relationships and the way she sabotaged them was a self-preservation mechanism. You can't get hurt if you don't let anyone close. In that way, she and Laz were similar. And yet they let themselves be close to each other...because romance was out of the equation. Until it wasn't...</span></span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d; font-family: "coming soon"; font-size: large;"><span style="background-color: white; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="color: #741b47; font-family: "coming soon"; font-size: large;"><span style="background-color: white; white-space: pre-wrap;">I adored Marina and her awkward dorkiness! It was so funny how she'd have extra coffee and then too much wine at her third date - making sure it would be a disaster, then doing her bee-dance at the end. :D Definitely a self-preservation mechanism, plus, I am pretty sure her subconscious knew there was only one man for her, all the others were just fillers.</span></span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d; font-family: "coming soon"; font-size: large;"><span style="background-color: white; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="color: #38761d; font-family: "coming soon"; font-size: large;"><span style="background-color: white; white-space: pre-wrap;">Marina and Laz's friendship was miraculous considering how "bad" at love they were. Did you think Laz had ulterior motives for his suggestion about them fake dating or do you think he was genuine and then was genuinely surprised by the results?</span></span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d; font-family: "coming soon"; font-size: large;"><span style="background-color: white; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="color: #38761d; font-family: "coming soon"; font-size: large;"><span style="background-color: white; white-space: pre-wrap;">I thought he had ulterior motives until I saw his reaction to how good they were together. I was happy about that - but I also felt Marina needed the fake dating to get past her "need" to sabotage things. Then of course I wanted to string Laz up for doing what he always did. I mean, I understood but that was when he should have leaned on Marina... *sigh* All's well that ends well though. :D</span></span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d; font-family: "coming soon"; font-size: large;"><span style="background-color: white; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="color: #741b47; font-family: "coming soon"; font-size: large;"><span style="background-color: white; white-space: pre-wrap;">I don't think Laz had ulterior motives per se, but he did have strong feelings for her from the beginning, I'm sure of that. However, when things started getting more tangled, he really didn't know what to do with all those feelings he had kept at bay for so long. I cried with Marina when Laz was stupid like that. And while I could kind of understand him, I had hoped he'd be stronger with her.</span></span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d; font-family: "coming soon"; font-size: large;"><span style="background-color: white; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="color: #38761d; font-family: "coming soon"; font-size: large;"><span style="background-color: white; white-space: pre-wrap;">What did you think overall? And did you get the feeling that this might have been a bit autobiographical? Marina? Lazarus "Scott"?</span></span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d; font-family: "coming soon"; font-size: large;"><span style="background-color: white; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="color: #38761d; font-family: "coming soon"; font-size: large;"><span style="background-color: white; white-space: pre-wrap;">Overall, I liked <i><b>Bad at Love</b></i>. I do love a friends-to-lovers romance and this one just really worked for me. I loved that they'd found their "weirdo" and *finally* figured it out. And I did wonder at whether this was semi-autobiographical since Marina is similar to Karina and her husband's name is Scott... In any event, it was a great read! </span></span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d; font-family: "coming soon"; font-size: large;"><span style="background-color: white; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="color: #741b47; font-family: "coming soon"; font-size: large;"><span style="background-color: white; white-space: pre-wrap;">I didn't even think of that at all! Autobiographical? Eh...</span></span><br />
<span style="color: #741b47; font-family: "coming soon"; font-size: large;"><span style="background-color: white; white-space: pre-wrap;">I loved that Laz and Marina found their weirdo, too, what more can we all ask for, right? I've even found more than one weirdo, since I now also have you, wifey. ;)</span></span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d; font-family: "coming soon"; font-size: large;"><span style="background-color: white; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span></span>
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<span style="color: #38761d; font-family: "coming soon"; font-size: large;"><span style="background-color: white; white-space: pre-wrap;">So there you have it! Both Lexxie and I adored these characters and how they found their way to love. *sigh*</span></span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d; font-family: "coming soon"; font-size: large;"><span style="background-color: white; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="color: #38761d; font-family: "coming soon"; font-size: large;"><span style="background-color: white; white-space: pre-wrap;">One thing to note: I actually listened to <i><b>Bad at Love</b></i>, which was narrated by <a href="https://tantor.com/narrator/jo-raylan.html">Jo Raylan</a> and <a href="https://tantor.com/narrator/cornell-collins.html">Cornell Collins</a>. These were both new-to-me narrators and I was impressed. They kept the pace just right as well as kept their voiced distinct and consistent. And they both conveyed the depth and breadth of emotions - especially during the sexy scenes. ;)</span></span></div>
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Bookworm Brandeehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15834408515209743135noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6125233179936753205.post-88250919410280559832018-07-02T01:00:00.000-06:002018-07-02T01:00:10.110-06:00#Audio Review ~ Beneath this Mask ~ Meghan March #AudioChallenge #COYER<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;"><b><i>Beneath this Mask</i> by <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/8184875.Meghan_March">Meghan March</a></b></span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;"><b>Beneath #1</b></span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;"><b>Narrated by</b>: <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/6746963.Andi_Arndt">Andi Arndt</a> and <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/473481.Holter_Graham">Holter Graham</a></span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;"><b>Release Date</b>: June 30, 2015</span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;"><b>Genre</b>: Adult, Contemporary Romance</span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;"><b>Source</b>: Purchased on Audible</span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;"><b>Rating</b>: 4.5 Bookworms</span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;"><b>Challenges</b>: #AudioChallenge, #COYER, #ShelfLove</span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;"><b><a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/26877654-beneath-this-mask">Goodreads</a></b></span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;"><br />
</span><span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;"><b>Synopsis</b></span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">He loves me, and he doesn't even know my real name.</span><br />
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</span> <span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">The limelight that follows him could expose everything I'm hiding. But even knowing the risks, I can't force myself to stay away.</span><br />
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</span> <span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">I'm going to break his heart, but mine will shatter right along with it.</span><br />
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</span> <span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">Will we lose it all when I reveal what's beneath this mask?</span><br />
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</span><span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;"><b><i>Beneath this Mask</i></b> was a captivating story brilliantly brought to life through Arndt's and Graham's narration (although I preferred Arndt's). There wasn't much about this story I didn't like - from the premise to the well-developed characters down to the NOLA setting - it was all good and I'm so happy I gave MMarch a go!</span><br />
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</span><span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;"><b>Highlights</b>:</span><br />
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<li><span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">Premise<br />
A Bernie Madoff-style swindle that ruined not only the lives of those swindled but also that of a young woman whose belief in her father was destroyed forcing that young woman into hiding knowing her life would never again be "normal". While in hiding she meets a man who makes her want to give up her solitary lifestyle, maybe reveal her secrets...but she knows that because of his family's name and his career ambitions her mask of ink and colored hair aren't any better for him than the what the fallout would be were the secrets about her identity revealed.</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">Charlie & Simon/Romance<br />
Charlie and Simon meet in a tattoo shop. Simon is rather persistent in his pursuit of Charlie and despite her misgivings she eventually relents.<br />
I adored Charlie. She's smart, resilient, tough, and independent...all qualities I admire. She had absolutely no issues living without all the trappings of her privileged upbringing. In fact, those trappings, which she recognizes as the blessings they were, were never things she desired. What she wanted more was a dad who wasn't "dirty" and a mom who validated and valued her for the person she is. But she's finding that in her new life.<br />
Simon is the son of a semi-famous family and an all-around good guy. I appreciated how he was so into Charlie that he was willing to let her let him in at her own pace. What I also appreciated with these two was their character growth. They both realized what they wanted and that it was going to take some unpleasantness to get there. But they were both willing to wade through that unpleasantness for their own happiness as well as for each other.</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">NOLA<br />
MMarch did well with bringing to life the vibrant city. From clubs to street vendors, tattoo shops to Bourbon Street, and wedding parades, too...it made me want to go back to New Orleans ASAP!</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">Secondary Characters<br />
MMarch also created a nice little cast of secondary characters including Charlie's friends - especially Con - her dog, Huck, and Simon's family. I believe I'll get Con's story later in the series and I'm tickled pink over that. :)</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">Narration<br />
Y'all! I seriously FLOVE Andi Arndt!! Holter Graham was good too but Arndt really nailed it. I feel like I always say the same things about narrators I enjoy but Arndt easily switched from Charlie's voice to Simon's - including a little NOLA-flare for him - and her delivery just ROCKED. </span></li>
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<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;"><b><i>Beneath this Mask</i></b> was an absolute pleasure. And it made my 10 hour drive to Texas a joy!</span><br />
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Bookworm Brandeehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15834408515209743135noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6125233179936753205.post-45249653049948377592018-07-01T10:30:00.000-06:002018-07-01T10:30:34.849-06:00My TBR List Review *June* ~ Opposition ~ Jennifer L. Armentrout #MyTBRL #COYER #HW2018<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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</span><span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">My To-Be Read List is a meme hosted by <a href="http://www.becausereading.com/tbr-list-meme/">Michelle @Because Reading</a>. </span><br />
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</span> <span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">So sorry for the delay in my posting of this review. I didn't have time on Friday to get it typed up and I was driving back from Texas all day yesterday. =)</span><br />
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<a href="https://d.gr-assets.com/books/1420259045l/24269629.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img alt="Opposition (Lux, #5)" height="320" src="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1398694101l/13644055.jpg" width="214" /></a></div>
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;"><b><i>Opposition </i>by <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/4476934.Jennifer_L_Armentrout">Jennifer L. Armentrout</a></b></span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;"><b>Lux Series #5</b></span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;"><b>Release Date</b>: August 5, 2014</span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;"><b>Genre</b>: YA Paranormal Romance</span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;"><b>Source</b>: Purchased paperback</span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;"><b>Rating</b>: 4.5 Bookworms</span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;"><b>Challenges</b>: #COYER, #HW2018, #ShelfLove, #TravelingtotheTerminus</span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;"><b><a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/13644055-opposition">Goodreads</a></b></span><br />
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</b></span><span style="color: #38761d;"><b>Synopsis</b></span></span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">Katy knows the world changed the night the Luxen came.</span><br />
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</span> <span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">She can't believe Daemon welcomed his race or stood by as his kind threatened to obliterate every last human and hybrid on Earth. But the lines between good and bad have blurred, and love has become an emotion that could destroy her - could destroy them all.</span><br />
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</span> <span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">Daemon will do anything to save those he loves, even if it means betrayal.</span><br />
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</span> <span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">They must team with an unlikely enemy if there is any chance of surviving the invasion. But when it quickly becomes impossible to tell friend from foe, and the world is crumbling around them, they may lose everything - even what they cherish most - to ensure the survival of their friends...and mankind.</span><br />
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</span> <span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">War has come to Earth. And no matter the outcome, the future will never be the same for those left standing...</span><br />
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</i></span></span><span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">Even though it took me an exorbitant amount of time to finish <b><i>Opposition</i></b> (to be fair, I wasn't dedicated-ly reading it all that time), <b><i>Opposition</i></b> was honestly the perfect ending to the Lux series. Here are the highlights:</span><br />
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<ul>
<li><span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">Plot<br />
Not only was I impressed with the plot threads central to this final installment but also the over-arching plot. They were all well done and all tied up nicely. I know it's been awhile in between <b><i>Origin</i></b> and <b><i>Opposition</i></b> - and a really long while between all the others - but I admit that JLA surprised me with some things. There were others that tied up a little bit too neatly but I still felt they worked well with the story overall. Also, I liked the parallels JLA drew between the prejudice and judgement going on between the Lux, The Arum, and humans and the way those same things we humans perpetrate against each other. So much could be resolved or even avoided if we only treated EVERYONE with respect.</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">Katy & Daemon<br />
These two have been through so much and go through even more in Opposition. The growth and maturity they both exhibit, the resilience they display, and the strength of the bond only getting stronger in the face of adversity, prove them to be strong individuals and an even stronger couple.</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">Romance<br />
Well, with Katy & Daemon it goes without saying. Their romance - their love - is something to behold. But I also enjoyed seeing romance blossom or continue to blossom between secondary characters as well.</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">Secondary Characters<br />
JLA made sure I was equally as invested in the secondary characters as I was in Katy and Daemon throughout the series. Dawson & Beth, Dee, Archer, Luc, Hunter...yeah, JLA created a dynamic cast that gave the story depth and kept me that much more engaged.</span></li>
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<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">In the end, there were things that shocked me, things that made me gasp, things that made me swoon, things that broke my heart, and things that restored my faith in humanity and I couldn't imagine a more fitting ending to this series.</span></div>
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<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">For those who may not know, Berk is my younger daughter. She agreed, if somewhat reluctantly, *wink* to review a few of her summer reads. And since my review of <b><i>Opposition</i></b> (last in the series) posts tomorrow, I thought it'd be fun for y'all to see what she thought of <b><i>Obsidian</i></b> (first in the series.) I hope y'all enjoy!</span><br />
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<a href="https://d.gr-assets.com/books/1420259045l/24269629.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img alt="Obsidian (Lux, #1)" height="320" src="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1328275091l/12578077.jpg" width="206" /></a></div>
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;"><b><i>Obsidian </i>by <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/4476934.Jennifer_L_Armentrout">Jennifer L. Armentrout</a></b></span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;"><b>Lux Series #1</b></span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;"><b>Release Date</b>: May 8, 2012</span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;"><b>Genre</b>: YA Paranormal Romance</span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;"><b>Source</b>: Borrowed paperback from my Mom</span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;"><b>Rating</b>: 4 Bookworms</span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;"><b><a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/12578077-obsidian">Goodreads</a></b></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #38761d;"><b><br /></b></span><span style="color: #38761d;"><b>Synopsis</b></span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #38761d;">Starting over sucks.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #38761d;">When we moved to West Virginia right before my senior year, I'd pretty much resigned myself to thick accents, dodgy internet access, and a while lot of boring... until I spotted my hot neighbor, with his looming height and eerie green eyes. Things were looking up.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #38761d;">And then he opened his mouth.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #38761d;">Daemon is infuriating. Arrogant. Stab-worthy. We do not get along. At all. But when a stranger attacks me and Daemon literally freezes time with a wave of his hand, well, something... unexpected happens.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #38761d;">The hot alien living next door marks me.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #38761d;">You heard me. Alien. Turns out Daemon and his sister have a galaxy of enemies wanting to steal their abilities, and Daemon's touch has me lit up like the Vegas Strip. The only way I'm getting out of this alive is by sticking close to Daemon until my alien mojo fades.</span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #38761d;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #38761d;">If I don't kill him first, that is.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="color: #38761d; font-size: x-large;"><i><b>**BERK'S REVIEW**</b></i></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #38761d;"><b>What I Liked:</b></span></span><br />
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<li><span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">The thoroughly developed characters</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">No love triangle</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">How "real" the aliens were - how there weren't big reaches in believeability</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">Date rape awareness in a high school setting</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">Relatable sass of Katy</span></li>
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<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;"><b>What I Liked Less:</b></span></div>
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<li><span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">The constant lusting after Daemon. It may seem like all teenage girls are constantly pining after guys but that's not true and it got annoying because it seemed to be central to the premise when it shouldn't have been.</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">There wasn't enough action. The bit there was good, it just felt like it was lacking.</span></li>
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<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">Overall, I really liked the world building and the story line. I'm just not a fan of excessive romance. However, I have started <i><b>Onyx</b></i>.</span></div>
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Bookworm Brandeehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15834408515209743135noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6125233179936753205.post-19819747695311471162018-06-27T01:00:00.000-06:002018-06-27T01:00:12.214-06:00#JIAM Audiobook Tag #LoveAudiobooks<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">Sophia Rose <a href="http://www.hotlistens.com/sophias-audiobook-tag-loveaudiobooks/">@Hot Listens</a> found this audiobook-themed tag on the Books and Things YouTube Channel and it looked like fun so I thought I'd consider myself tagged. If you're so inclined, consider yourself tagged too. :)</span><br />
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<ol>
<li><span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">Have you always listened to audiobooks or when did you begin?<br /><br />I haven't always listened to audiobooks and when I first tried about 5 years ago, I admit I found it challenging. I'm not one of those people who can listen to audiobooks while doing things like blogging, answering emails, etc., so I was only listening when I was driving (and didn't have kids in the car) or cleaning. So it took me a long time to listen to a book and I'd forget details in between listens. But with practice, and some fantastic narrators (thank you, Andi Arndt!), I've made audiobooks a regular part of my reading diet. :D<br /><br /></span></li>
<li><span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">What is your favorite audiobook?<br /><br />Oh geez! Why don't you ask me which is my favorite child! There's no way I can pick just one so I'll go with narrators and the series they narrated which really made me fall in love with audiobooks:<br /><br />*Andi Arndt - Stage Dive series by Kylie Scott<br />*Robert Petkoff - Immortals After Dark series by Kresley Cole<br />*Nicole Poole - Seven series by Dannika Dark<br /><br /></span></li>
<li><span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">What is my least favorite thing about audiobooks?<br /><br />Um, I honestly feel like I remember details about audiobooks less vividly. But that's just how my brain works. And it's the little details that are fuzzy in audio whereas in print I can "see" them.<br /><br /></span></li>
<li><span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">What do you think is the difference in experience between physically reading a book and listening to it?<br /><br />Like I said above, I can remember details better when I read them rather than hear them - I'm a visual person. I also like holding a book or an ebook. And that means I'm sitting somewhere comfortable, typically with a cup of coffee or tea, and quite possibly with a cat in my lap. When I'm listening, I'm typically driving, running (yes, I listen while I exercise), or cleaning. Oh, I listen sometimes while I grocery shop as well. :) So reading a physical book is a more relaxing experience overall for me BUT I wouldn't give up my audiobooks for anything. And my hubs likes that I clean more often. ;)<br /><br /></span></li>
<li><span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">How and when do you listen?<br /><br />Um, I guess I got ahead of myself as I kinda answered this in the previous question. At least the <i>when</i> part. As for <i>how</i>...I listen via earbuds and my phone. I know my Kindle Fire can handle audiobooks but since I'm always active while listening, I need the smaller device.<br /><br /></span></li>
<li><span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">What style/genre do you prefer?<br /><br />I don't really have a preference in my reading - I'm a genre omnivore as my blogging wife, Lexxie, likes to say. I do tend to listen to paranormal romance, contemporary romance, and historical romance quite a bit though.<br /><br /></span></li>
<li><span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">What are some audiobook/narrator recommendations?<br /><br />Again, I got ahead of myself and gave a few of these in my answer to question #2. But I have a few more to recommend:<br /><br />*Beverley A. Crick - The Sinful Suitors series by Sabrina Jeffries (and I have Berls to thank for recommending this one!)<br />*Christian Fox - Sugar Bowl series by Sawyer Bennett<br />*Andi Arndt/Zachary Webber - Show Me the Way by A.L. Jackson<br />*Mindy Kennedy - Songs of Corruption series by C.D. Reiss<br /></span></li>
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Bookworm Brandeehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15834408515209743135noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6125233179936753205.post-29518544707074486292018-06-25T01:00:00.000-06:002018-06-25T01:00:02.000-06:00Audio Review ~ Show Me the Way ~ A.L. Jackson #AudioChallenge #ShelfLove<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://d.gr-assets.com/books/1353228066l/16117957.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; display: inline !important; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Show Me the Way (Fight for Me, #1)" src="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1509398429l/36505744.jpg" /></a></div>
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;"><b><i>Show Me the Way</i> by <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/5784542.A_L_Jackson">A.L. Jackson</a></b></span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;"><b>Fight for Me #1</b></span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;"><b>Narrated by</b>: <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/6746963.Andi_Arndt">Andi Arndt</a> and <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/7352043.Zachary_Webber">Zachary Webber</a></span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;"><b>Release Date</b>: October 13, 2017</span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;"><b>Genre</b>: Adult, Contemporary Romance</span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;"><b>Source</b>: Purchased on Audible</span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;"><b>Rating</b>: 4.5 Bookworms</span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;"><b>Challenges</b>: #AudioChallenge, #ShelfLove</span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;"><b><a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/36505744-show-me-the-way">Goodreads</a></b></span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;"><br /></span><span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;"><b>Synopsis</b></span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">Rex Gunner. As bitter as he is beautiful.</span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">The owner of the largest construction company in Gingham Lakes has been burned one too many times. His wife leaving him to raise their daughter was the last blow this single dad could take. The only woman he'll let into his heart is his little girl.</span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">Rynna Dayne. As vulnerable as she is tempting.</span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">She ran from Gingham Lakes when she was seventeen. She swore to herself she would never return. Then her grandmother passed away and left her the deed to the diner that she once loved.</span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">When Rex meets his new neighbor, he knows he's in trouble.</span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">She's gorgeous and sweet and everything he can't trust.</span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">Until she becomes the one thing he can't resist.</span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">One kiss sends them tumbling toward ecstasy.</span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">But in a town this size, pasts are bound to collide. Caught in a web of lies, betrayal, and disloyalty, Rex must make a choice.</span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;"><br />Will he hide behind his walls or will he take the chance...</span><br />
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<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;"><br /></span><span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">Oh my! It's been awhile since I spent time in a world created by A.L. Jackson and I'd forgotten how rich her stories are. I loved every second I spent in Gingham Lakes and its inhabitants and am eager to return.</span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;"><br /></span><span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;"><b>Highlights</b>:</span><br />
<ul>
<li><span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">Rynna & Rex<br />Goodness did I love these two! They've both been burned - badly - and yet are still such giving people. They're loyal to their family and friends and care so deeply about them and their hometown. Watching them fight and eventually fall was beautiful.</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">Frankie Lee<br />I believe I've mentioned how I feel about guys with kids. *wink* Frankie Lee and her daddy (Rex) were something to behold!</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">Plot<br />The circumstances behind Rynna's return were sad but I couldn't help but feel Fate - and Rynna's grandma - had a hand in all that came afterward. The ways in which Rynna and Rex were tangled up in each other - people they knew, their businesses, Rex's love of Rynna's grandma's pies - only served to solidify the fact they were meant to be. The element of suspense and the tension it wrought was very well done and again, I appreciated how ALJ had it all tied together.</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">Romance<br />Although there was a serious attraction, Rex fought it fiercely. That bothered me at first but I eventually understood her reasons and as I said, watching these two fall was beautiful. The fact that Frankie Lee was part of the equation only made the romance that much sweeter because the way Rynna fell for her too illustrated the kind of person she was and made me root for them all the harder.</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">Narration<br />Andi Arndt and Zachary Webber are a dream team! (a theme lately) I freaking loved their delivery on all counts. The pace was perfect, they conveyed every single emotion, their voices for each character - especially Webber's voice for Frankie Lee - were distinct and consistent, and overall it was an utterly entertaining listen! So much so that I'm getting every ALJ book these two narrate.</span></li>
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<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;"><b><i>Show Me the Way</i></b> was not only a well-written story but also an aural delight!</span></div>
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Bookworm Brandeehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15834408515209743135noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6125233179936753205.post-59387918223304707702018-06-20T01:00:00.000-06:002018-06-20T01:00:02.440-06:00Audio Review ~ Beautiful Mistake ~ Vi Keeland #AudioChallenge #ShelfLove<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;"><b><i>Beautiful Mistake</i> by <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/6887119.Vi_Keeland">Vi Keeland</a></b></span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;"><b>Narrated by</b>: <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/6746963.Andi_Arndt">Andi Arndt</a> and <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/7266223.Sebastian_York">Sebastian York</a></span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;"><b>Release Date</b>: July 20, 2017</span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;"><b>Genre</b>: Adult, Contemporary Romance</span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;"><b>Source</b>: Purchased on Audible</span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;"><b>Rating</b>: 4.5 Bookworms</span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;"><b>Challenges</b>: #AudioChallenge, #ShelfLove</span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;"><b><a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/35713451-beautiful-mistake">Goodreads</a></b></span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;"><br />
</span><span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;"><b>Synopsis</b></span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">The first time I met Caine West was in a bar.</span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">He noticed me looking his way and mistakenly read my scowling as checking him out.</span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">When he attempted to talk to me, I set him straight - telling him what I thought of his lying, cheating, egomaniacal ass.</span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">You see, the gorgeous jerk had wined and dined my best friend--smooth talking her into his bed, all along failing to mention that he was married.</span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">He deserved every bit of my tongue-lashing and more for what he'd done.</span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">Especially when that lazy smile graced his perfect face in response to my rant.</span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">Only it turned out, the man I'd just told off wasn't the right guy.</span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;"><i>Oops</i>. My mistake.</span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">Embarrassed, I slunk out without an apology.</span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">I was never going to see the handsome stranger again anyway, right?</span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">That's what I thought...until I walked into class the next morning.</span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">Well, hello <i>Professor West</i>, I'm your new teaching assistant.</span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">I'll be working under you...figuratively speaking.</span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">Although the literal interpretation might not be such a bad thing - working <i>under</i> Professor West.</span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">This is going to be interesting...</span><br />
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<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;"><br />
</span><span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">I swear VKeeland <i>rocks</i> at delivering the best "meets". Caine and Rachel's first meet had me guffawing and giggle-snorting...loudly. But while the story did have its comic moments, it was serious as well. And so, so satisfying.</span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;"><br />
</span><span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;"><b>Highlights</b>:</span><br />
<ul>
<li><span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">Rachel and Caine<br />
Rachel is a strong and independent woman who's also smart and loyal. She also often lets whatever pops into her head fly out of her mouth and that made for some humorous interactions between her and Caine. Caine is a bit older and maybe more sophisticated but that's questionable at times. He's a professor...she's his TA...and the sexual tension between these two is almost suffocating. As they get to know each other though, they realize their connection is more than chemistry. Character growth is something I truly appreciate and while Caine does the most - and it was amazing to watch - they both learn to let go of the past that's influenced and haunted them in order to move forward.</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">Plot<br />
VKeeland did an incredible job of weaving together the past and present threads, slowly disseminating pertinent facts and events so that we understood how it all tied together and how things affected both Rachel and Caine. I also liked how VKeeland incorporated music into the story.</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">Romance<br />
There was no question about whether or not they'd fall but being witness to it was an experience. Caine never saw it coming, I don't think, feeling he had his walls strongly erected. Realizing who Rachel was to him threw him for a loop but luckily he pulled his head out before it was too late.</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">Narration<br />
Seriously, Arndt and York are a dream team here. They keep the pace perfect, keep the voices distinct, and deliver on ALL the feels. They're two of my favorites.</span></li>
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Bookworm Brandeehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15834408515209743135noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6125233179936753205.post-28663869387741428012018-06-18T01:00:00.000-06:002018-06-18T01:00:03.485-06:00New Release Review ~ The Luck of the Bride ~ Janna MacGregor #2018NewRelease<a href="https://d.gr-assets.com/books/1390155121l/20577677.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="The Luck of the Bride (The Cavensham Heiresses #3)" height="320" src="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1508103348l/36419098.jpg" width="196" /></a><span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;"><b><i>The Luck of the Bride</i> by <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/15613220.Janna_MacGregor">Janna MacGregor</a></b></span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;"><b>The Cavensham Heiresses #3</b></span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;"><b>Release Date</b>: May 1, 2018<br />
<b>Genre</b>: Adult, Historical Romance</span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;"><b>Source</b>: I received an eARC from St. Martin's via Netgalley. This did not affect my rating and my review is provided voluntarily.</span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;"><b>Rating</b>: 4.5 Bookworms</span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;"><b>Challenges</b>: #ShelfLove, #TravelingtotheTerminus</span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;"><b><a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/36419098-the-luck-of-the-bride">Goodreads</a></b></span><br />
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</span><span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;"><b>Synopsis</b></span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">March Lawson has never had much luck, and in a desperate move to save her family, she's been posing as the Marquess of McCalpin. But when she's summoned to a meeting with the Marquess himself, March expects jail time...not to be bewitched by dark hair and sapphire eyes.</span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;"><br />
</span> <span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">Michael Cavensham, the Marquess of McCalpin and heir to the Duke of Langham, finds himself drawn to March despite the judgments from his peers. He isn't sure he can trust March, especially since Michael has a secret that could ruin him and his family.</span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;"><br />
</span> <span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">But society conspires to keep March and Michael apart, and when March is accused of not being who she says she is, will Michael toss her aside or fight for the woman he's come to love?</span><br />
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<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;"><br />
This was my first read from MacGregor and it won't be the last! In fact, I'm eager to pick up the first two in this series. MacGregor spun a compelling tale with well developed characters and delivered suspense, romance, and all the feels! My only complaint is that the resolution was too neat.</span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;"><br />
</span><span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;"><b>Highlights</b></span><br />
<ul>
<li><span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">Characters/Character Development<br />
The main characters, March and Michael, were so engaging. Both considered themselves lacking in ways when they were both incredibly strong, tenacious, and intelligent. A perfect match. *wink* They'd both endured - especially March, having to grow up way too early and learn to manage in sometimes creative ways.<br />
Besides March and Michael, I got to meet March's sisters, Faith and Julia, and her brother, Bennett, who was just delightful, as well as Michael's parents and siblings, William and Emma. MacGregor delivered a secondary cast that gave depth to our main characters and made the story that much more entertaining.</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">Plot<br />
The reason behind March and Michael meeting was almost comical despite its seriousness. I enjoyed how MacGregor had it all play out with Michael and his family taking on March and her siblings - the care with which they dealt with them and even the matchmaking on the part of Michael's mother and sister. The way MacGregor worked through March and Michael's vulnerabilities - how they did it together - was heartwarming.</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">Romance<br />
The romance blossomed so naturally between March and Michael - it was almost effortless and neither knew what hit them. They complemented each other so well and it was sweet to watch them fall.<br />
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<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">Again, I truly enjoyed my introduction to MacGregor's work and I've already picked up the first in this series so I can continue getting acquainted with her and the Cavensham heiresses.</span></div>
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Bookworm Brandeehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15834408515209743135noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6125233179936753205.post-40722993055513158202018-06-15T01:00:00.000-06:002018-06-15T01:00:02.699-06:00Blogger Chick/Reader Chick Chat Review ~ Taint ~ S.L. Jennings #ShelfLove<a href="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1513702904l/36048542.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Taint (Sexual Education, #1)" height="320" src="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1421011023l/23019299.jpg" width="212" /></a><span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;"><b><i>Taint</i> by <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/6572969.S_L_Jennings">S. L. Jennings</a></b></span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;"><b>Sexual Education #1</b></span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;"><b>Release Date</b>: February 24, 2015</span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;"><b>Genre</b>: Adult, Contemporary Romance</span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;"><b>Source</b>: I received a complimentary copy from the publisher at RT 2015. This did not affect my rating and my review is provided voluntarily.</span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;"><b>Rating</b>: 4 Bookworms</span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;"><b>Challenges</b>: #ShelfLove</span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;"><b><a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/23019299-taint">Goodreads</a></b></span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;"><br /></span><span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;"><b>Synopsis</b></span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">"Right now, you're probably asking yourself two things: Who am I? and What the hell are you doing here? Let's start with the most obvious question, shall we? You're here, ladies, because you can't f*ck."</span><br />
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<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">Oh, stop it. Don't cringe. No one under the age of eighty clutches her pearls. You might as well get used to it, because for the next six weeks, you're going to hear that word a lot. And you're going to say it a lot. Go ahead, try it out on your tongue. F*ck. F***ck.</span><br />
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<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">Okay, good. Now, where were we?</span><br />
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<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">If you enrolled yourself in this program, then you are wholly aware that you're a lousy lay. Good for you. Admitting it is half the battle. For those of you who have been sent here by your husband or significant other, dry your tears and get over it. You've been given a gift, ladies. The gift of mind-blowing, wall-climbing, multiple-orgasm-inducing sex. You have the opportunity to f*ck like a porn star. And I guarantee that you will when I'm done with you. </span><br />
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<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">And who am I?</span><br />
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<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">Well, for the next six weeks, I will be your lover, your teacher, your best friend, and your worst enemy. Your every-f*cking-thing. I'm the one who is going to save your relationship and your sex life. </span><br />
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<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">I'm Justice Drake. And I turn housewives into whores. Now...who's first?</span><br />
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<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;"><b>BLOGGER CHICK - READER CHICK CHAT</b></span></div>
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<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;"><br /></span><span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">Y'all have heard me talk about Denise...she travels with me quite often to book events. She's even been designated as my and Lexxie's reader wife. Well, I'm putting her to work this summer reading books from authors attending Book Bonanza...and we're chatting about 'em! Enjoy!</span><br />
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<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">Me: What did you think of the premise - Justice's job portion of the premise anyway? Were you put off by it? Did it make you laugh or steam??</span><br />
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<span style="color: #b45f06; font-size: large;">Denise: At first it was really weird, then the further into the book I got, listening to what Justice had to say, it was more intriguing. I was not really put off but was taken aback at first. I would say I laughed and steamed - some of the "lessons" were pretty funny but as time went on, they got hotter.</span><br />
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<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">Personally, I think I was initially shocked, which was probably the point but the further we got into the story, and the classes, the more fun I had with that part of the story line.</span><br />
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<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">How did you think Jennings did with a male POV? </span><br />
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<span style="color: #b45f06; font-size: large;">I feel she did pretty good. Some of the directness and to the point attitude was really good.</span><br />
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<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">Of course, I'm not a male but I think she did pretty well conveying a male's point of view. I loved being inside his head, privy to everything he was thinking. I liked his humor and his ice cold facade. But I think what I liked most was getting to see his vulnerable side - even if he didn't show it to Ally until late in the game.</span><br />
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<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">What did you think of Ally?</span><br />
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<span style="color: #b45f06; font-size: large;">I thought she was a genuine character. I felt she had a huge heart and a lot to give to someone who truly loved her.</span><br />
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<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">Omigosh, I loved her quirkiness, her love of Friends, mint chocolate chip ice cream, chicken and waffles...and that she wasn't afraid to be real...at least with Justice.</span><br />
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<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">Was the romance realistic? And did it bother you that they let things go that far?</span><br />
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<span style="color: #b45f06; font-size: large;">Yes the romance was very realistic. I can definitely see something like that happen. Normally, infidelity does bother me but with this case it was a little different. I think life is too short to have to deal with a cheating spouse even if you are trying to keep up appearances, so I understand how things went that far. I think the character building was great and you got to see the deep emotions of two people who were not necessarily being truthful to themselves until they found each other.</span><br />
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<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">I felt the romance was very realistic. Justice validated Ally for who she was and she did the same for him even if she didn't know his whole story. And really, it was a slow-burn. They both fought against the attraction...the pull between them. As for things going as far as they did when she was still married...in real life, I might not agree with it. But then again, her husband was a lying, cheating son of a bitch, so... Is turnabout fair play? Maybe not - in real life anyway. But it made for good fiction. LOL One thing I wanted to add...I liked how the romance helped in character growth. Justice certainly did a lot of growing, realizing the things he thought he wanted, the things he thought were important to him, weren't so much. And Ally - I know we didn't see her before she arrived at Oasis but you could tell that she put on a show in her life. She wasn't herself - only conveying the image that was expected of her. So watching her let her light shine as she and Justice got closer was something to see. :)</span><br />
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<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">Did you guess Justice's secret?</span><br />
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<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">I didn't. I had a feeling it had something to do with Evan but not what it ended up being.</span><br />
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<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">In the end, both Denise and I gave <i><b>Taint</b></i> 4 Bookworms and I'm fairly certain we'll be reading the next in the duet. ;)</span><br />
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Bookworm Brandeehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15834408515209743135noreply@blogger.com0