Review ~ Rescuing Rayne ~ Susan Stoker #COYER

Rescuing Rayne by Susan Stoker
Delta Force Heroes #1
Release Date: February 9, 2016
Genre: Adult, Romantic Suspense
Source: Kindle Freebie
Rating: 4 Bookworms
Challenges: #COYER, #ShelfLove
Goodreads

Synopsis
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.

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.

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.

Rescuing Rayne 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.

Highlights:

• Characters/Romance
  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.
• Suspense
  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.

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. 

New Release Review ~ Queen of the Darkest Hour ~ Kim Rendfeld @kimrendfeld #2018NewRelease #COYER

Queen of the Darkest Hour by Kim Rendfeld
Release Date: August 7, 2018
Genre: Adult, Historical Fiction
Source: I received an eARC from the author. This did not affect my rating and my review is provided voluntarily.
Rating: 4 Bookworms
Challenges: #2018NewRelease, #COYER
Goodreads

Synopsis
Family Strife Imperils the Realm
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?
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.

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, Queen of the Darkest Hour.

Queen of the Darkest Hour 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.

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.

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. 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.

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.

In Queen of the Darkest Hour, 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.

Release Day Review ~ Rock F*ck Club: A Postseason One Novella ~ Michelle Mankin @MichelleMankin #2018NewRelease #COYER

Rock F*ck Club: A Postseason One Novella by Michelle Mankin
Rock F*ck Club #2
Release Date: August 7, 2018
Genre: Adult, Contemporary Romance
Source: 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.
Rating: 4.5 Bookworms
Challenges: #2018NewRelease, #COYER
Goodreads

Synopsis
A Postseason One Novella
10 cities. 10 famous rock stars f*cked.
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.
Her once very private sex life is about to become public.
Can her life ever return to normal?
Does she want it to?
And what about the next season of RFC?
Who will be the next star?
Who will be f*cking whom?

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! 

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 real. 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 real. And being a fan of character growth, I was thrilled to see both Lucky and Raven - especially Raven - do some growing.

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.

That ending! WOW!! It was a shocker and I am more than happy RFC #3 releases soon!

#COYER Mini-Challenge Day #7 ~ It's Been a Week of Romantic Suspense

COYER Mini-Challenge: Romantic Suspense

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. 

To put an end to the suspense (but not the romance), here's what Lexxie and I are up to...

We're getting married!! Er...merging our blogs. *wink* And you're all invited...to the reception!

And the winner of my giveaway is.... Anne!

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#COYER Mini-Challenge Day #6 ~ Down to the Wire...Romantic Suspense

COYER Mini-Challenge: Romantic Suspense

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 Relentless by Elizabeth Dyer and am still working on Rescuing Rayne by Susan Stoker. 

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:

The end...

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.

...is a new beginning!


Don't forget to get your entries in the Rafflecopter!

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#COYER Mini-Challenge Day #5 ~ Loving Romantic Suspense?

COYER Mini-Challenge: Romantic Suspense

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 Relentless by Elizabeth Dyer, and I ended up enjoying it. My review will post soon. :) I'm now reading Rescuing Rayne by Susan Stoker. It'll probably be the last one I finish...if I can manage that. 

Continuing with our story... be sure to check back tomorrow for the *final* installment.

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!

Don't forget to get your entries in the Rafflecopter!

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#COYER Mini-Challenge Day #3 ~ Are You Enjoying Your Romantic Suspense?

COYER Mini-Challenge: Romantic Suspense

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 Relentless by Elizabeth Dyer, and I'm still enjoying it. I just wish I read faster! 

Continuing with our story... be sure to check back tomorrow for the next installment.

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. 

Don't forget to get your entries in the Rafflecopter!


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#COYER Mini-Challenge ~ Join Us for Some Romantic Suspense Day #2

COYER Mini-Challenge: Romantic Suspense

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 - Relentless by Elizabeth Dyer. It's pretty good so far. Tell me about what you're reading. What do you plan to read next?

And now that that first little bit o' fun... each day you'll get a little more of this story.

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...me? 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.

Stay tuned for the next installment... and be sure to get your entries in the Rafflecopter!



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#COYER Mini-Challenge ~ Let's Read Some Romantic Suspense!

COYER Mini-Challenge: Romantic Suspense

Hello all :) Welcome to our COYER Mini-Challenge for Romantic Suspense! Lexxie @(un)Conventional Bookviews and I are so happy to have you :)

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.

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? 

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.





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Blogger Chick-Reader Chick Chat Review ~ Driven ~ K. Bromberg #COYER #ShelfLove

Driven by K. Bromberg
Driven #1
Release Date: December 25, 2013
Genre: Adult, Contemporary Romance
Source: Purchased on Nook
Rating: 4 Bookworms
Challenges: #COYER, #ShelfLove
Goodreads

Synopsis
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...

I am the exception to the rule.

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.

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.

I can't give him what he wants and he can't give me what I need. But after a glimpse beneath his refined exterior into the dark secrets of his damaged soul, can I bring myself to walk away?

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?

BLOGGER CHICK - READER CHICK CHAT

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!

***

Me: Yay! Another Book Bonanza buddy read under our belts!

While Driven was a bit angsty for me at times, I'm completely invested in Rylee and Colton, as individuals and as a couple.

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?

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.

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.



2) How do you feel about the reasons behind both Rylee's and Colton's attempts to keep distance between them? 

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.

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.
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.



3) What do you think about Rylee's profession and how it relates to Colton's issues?

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.

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.



4) And that brings me to wondering how you felt about the push and pull between these two and the angst is caused.

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.

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.



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 Fueled - 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."

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.!!!!


In the end, both Denise and I gave Driven 4 Bookworms and I know we'll be continuing the series...Denise is already one ahead of me!

Audio Review ~ Even the Score ~ Beth Ehemann #AudioChallenge #COYER

Even the Score by Beth Ehemann
Narrated by: Christian Fox and Lucy Rivers
Release Date: September 6, 2016
Genre: Adult, Contemporary Romance
Source: Purchased on Audible
Rating: 4 Bookworms
Challenges: #AudioChallenge, #COYER, #ShelfLove
Goodreads

Synopsis
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.

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...

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.

Even the Score 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.

What Worked:

• 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.
• 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.
• 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.
• 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. ;)

What Could Have Worked Better:

• 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.
• 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.

Overall, I liked Even the Score and I'll be adding more of Ehemann's books to my library.

#Audio Review ~ Beneath this Mask ~ Meghan March #AudioChallenge #COYER

Beneath this Mask by Meghan March
Beneath #1
Narrated by: Andi Arndt and Holter Graham
Release Date: June 30, 2015
Genre: Adult, Contemporary Romance
Source: Purchased on Audible
Rating: 4.5 Bookworms
Challenges: #AudioChallenge, #COYER, #ShelfLove
Goodreads

Synopsis
He loves me, and he doesn't even know my real name.

The limelight that follows him could expose everything I'm hiding. But even knowing the risks, I can't force myself to stay away.

I'm going to break his heart, but mine will shatter right along with it.

Will we lose it all when I reveal what's beneath this mask?

Beneath this Mask 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!

Highlights:

• Premise
  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.
• Charlie & Simon/Romance
  Charlie and Simon meet in a tattoo shop. Simon is rather persistent in his pursuit of Charlie and despite her misgivings she eventually relents.
  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.
  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.
• NOLA
  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!
• Secondary Characters
  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. :)
• Narration
  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. 

Beneath this Mask was an absolute pleasure. And it made my 10 hour drive to Texas a joy!

My TBR List Review *June* ~ Opposition ~ Jennifer L. Armentrout #MyTBRL #COYER #HW2018

My To-Be Read List is a meme hosted by Michelle @Because Reading. 

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. =)

***

Opposition by Jennifer L. Armentrout
Lux Series #5
Release Date: August 5, 2014
Genre: YA Paranormal Romance
Source: Purchased paperback
Rating: 4.5 Bookworms
Challenges: #COYER, #HW2018, #ShelfLove, #TravelingtotheTerminus
Goodreads

Synopsis
Katy knows the world changed the night the Luxen came.

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.

Daemon will do anything to save those he loves, even if it means betrayal.

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.

War has come to Earth. And no matter the outcome, the future will never be the same for those left standing...

Even though it took me an exorbitant amount of time to finish Opposition (to be fair, I wasn't dedicated-ly reading it all that time), Opposition was honestly the perfect ending to the Lux series. Here are the highlights:

• Plot
  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 Origin and Opposition - 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.
• Katy & Daemon
  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.
• Romance
  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.
• Secondary Characters
  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.

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.

#COYER Big Summer Birthday Bash Sign-up Post

Y'all, Berls & Michelle are celebrating FIVE YEARS of #COYER! Can you believe it?!? Y'all know #COYER is one of my favorite challenges because we *ALL* need to clean off our ereaders... amiright?!? And it's such a fun and interactive challenge! Berls & Michelle have come up so much goody-goodness for this celebratory version. I've listed the basics below and a little information on the other elements of the challenge as they apply to me. If you're interested in joining me - and why wouldn't you be?? - can click the graphic above (or here) to check out the FULL details. Here are the basics:

• The challenge begins June 9th at 12 a.m. EDT and ends August 31st at 11:59 p.m. EDT
• You must create a sign-up post anytime between now and June 9th on blog, Goodreads, Facebook, Google+, etc. Be sure to indicate your cleanup goal and don't forget to link your sign-up post to the linky here.
• It's Summer and you know what that means...anything goes! You can read books in any format, purchased at any price as long as you legally obtained it. Library? Yep! Borrowed? Yep! KU? Yep! $500? Yep (but are you crazy?)!
• Link your reviews to the linky that will be provided on the Kick-off Post.
• There will be two grand prize winners - $10 gift card - one for the linky review list, and one for the Birthday Bash goodies.

Sounds fun, yeah? Here's where it gets even more fun! Berls & Michelle came up with Birthday Bash Goodies for each COYER they've hosted thus far. Again, for ALL the details, click the graphic above but here's the Goodies I'll be partaking in.

Goody #1 in Honor of COYER #1: Declare Your Cleaning Goal:

• Light Clean - 1-10 books
• Spring Clean - 10-20 books
• Deep Clean - 20+ books

I'm going for the Deep Clean! =)


Goody #3 in Honor of COYER #3: Read-a-thons

• Fairytales with a Twist: Read fairy tale re-tellings and give those childhood favorites a twist. Read-a-thon runs Sunday June 17th 12am EST to Saturday June 23rd 11:59pm EST
• Christmas in July!: Read Holiday themed books. Read-a-thon runs Sunday July 15th 12 am EST to Saturday July 21st 11:59pm EST
• Dusting Off the Shelves: Read the oldest books in your physical or e-library They have to have sat on your shelf for at least 1 year. Read-a-thon runs Sunday July 29th 12am EST to Saturday August 4th 11:59pm EST
• Scary Stories by the Campfire!: Read about ghosts, goblins, and any other horror/thriller that would make for a scary campfire tale! Read-a-thon runs Sunday August 5th 12am EST to Saturday August 11th 11:59pm EST
• Short and Sweet!: Fill your final days not with Novels but with Novellas! Read-a-thon runs Sunday August 26th 12am EST to Friday August 31st 11:59pm EST

This is gonna take some planning but I hope to participate in ALL the read-a-thons! =)

Goody #4 in Honor of COYER #4: Mini-Challenges 
Participate in 1 or ALL the mini-challenges hosted by COYER participants to get an entry in the goody bag. Get an extra entry for hosting a mini-challenge.

These are always fun so if I have time I'll participate. And Lexxie and I are going to host one as well!



Goody #5 in Honor of COYER #5: Scavenger Hunt
COYER #5 was a summer scavenger hunt and I really had fun with it. So participating in the mini-scavenger hunt Sunday August 12th 12am EST to Sunday August 25th 11:59pm EST earns you an entry in the goody back. And seeing as I still have the list around with books chosen for the different categories, I'm in for this goody!


Goody #6 in Honor of COYER #6: Back to Basics
All you have to do to earn an entry in the goody bag for this one is participate in the Social Media games on Facebook, the Instagram Challenge, and the Twitter parties. I'm good with that. ;)


Goody #7 in Honor of COYER #7: Summer Vacation BINGO
Fill in 1 or all the BINGO cards over the entire summer for one point per board in the goody bag.


Goody #8 in Honor of COYER #8: Survive Hurricane Berls
COYER #8 was Winter Storm but since this is summertime, gear up for a hurricane! Hurricane Berls hits Wednesday July 25th thru Saturday July 28th. For 1 point per book, read only ebooks, purchased for $1 or less (ARCs are okay) prior to June 9th.


Goody #9 in Honor of COYER #9: The One with the Lists
COYER 9 was the Summer Reading List. In honor of that list, we're making a list again. :) Make a list of 15 books and read 10 of them for a point in the goody bag.  

My List:
Inescapable by Amy Bartol
The Air He Breathes by Brittainy Cherry
We Were Here by Daisy Prescott
A Hidden Fire by Elizabeth Hunter
This Man by Jodi Ellen Malpas
Driven by K. Bromberg
Strings by Kendall Grey
Arsen by Mia Asher
Eversea by Natasha Boyd
Unbreakable by Rebecca Shea
Surviving Raine by Shay Savage
Savage by SL Scott
Rescuing Raine by Susan Stoker
White Trash Beautiful by Teresa Mummert
The Weight of Life by Whitney Barbetti


Goody #10 in Honor of COYER #10: Summer Switch
The most recent COYER was Winter Switch and it was a lot of fun! Summer Switch runs from Sunday June 24th to Saturday July 14th for up to 3 points in the Goody Bag Giveaway. Pick your order for the Strict, the List, and the Twist...one per week...June 24th to June 30th, July 1st to July 7th, and July 8th to July 14th.

The Strict:

1. Every book you read must be an ebook or audiobook.
2. Every book must be either free or less than $5.
3. No library books, borrowed books, or KU books.

The List:

1. Make a list of up to 15 books (since it's legal, I'm using the same list from Goody #9)
2. Every book on the list must be in your possession BEFORE you put them on the list. Books on the list can be any format, any price, obtained in any LEGAL way...so that means library books, KU, borrowed, etc.

The Twist:

1. You can read ANY book. ANY price. Obtained any LEGAL way.
2. The Twist is, you have to stick to one format. If you choose audiobooks, then you can only read audiobooks during whichever phase you assign the Twist to. Same goes for ebooks.

So the only Goody I'm skipping is #2. 
Y'all, this COYER might be the best one yet! I hope y'all will join in the fun!! 

Review & Mini Blogger Girl Chat ~ Written in Red ~ Anne Bishop

Written in Red by Anne Bishop
The Other #1
Release Date: March 5, 2013
Genre: Adult, Fantasy, Paranormal, Urban Fantasy
Source: Borrowed from the library
Rating: 5 Bookworms
Challenges: #COYER
Goodreads

Synopsis
As a cassandra sangue, or blood prophet, Meg Corbyn can see the future when her skin is cut - a gift that feels more like a curse. Me'gs Controller keeps her enslaved so he can have full access to her visions. But when she escapes, the only safe place Meg can hide is at the Lakeside Courtyard - a business district operated by the Others.

Shape-shifter Simon Wolfgard is reluctant to hire the stranger who inquires about the Human Liaison job. First, he senses she's keeping a secret, and second, she doesn't smell like human prey. Yet a stronger instinct propels him to give Meg the job. And when he learns the truth about Meg and that she's wanted by the government, he'll have to decide if she's worth the fight between humans and the Others that will surely follow.

Gah! I can't believe I waited so long to read this! Written in Red was so good I was loathe to put it down. The world building was so well done - realistic but with just enough magic to create an escape - along with a fascinating story of creation. The characters - every single one - was so well developed that I feel like I know them all and I'm eager to hang out with them again. And, and, and I adore the fact that Bishop populated this story with strong female characters! There are quite a few "weighty" plot threads and Bishop wove them all together seamlessly. Seriously. So good!

The main story is that Meg escaped from where she'd been held her whole life and she makes it to the Lakeside Courtyward where the Others - vampires, wolf shifters, Elementals, etc. - live. There's something different about Meg and so the Others take her in and she becomes one of their own meaning they will protect her by any means necessary...even warring with the humans set on reacquiring her.

Meg hasn't live out in the world so she's learning every day, which was fascinating. But even more fascinating was watching as she taught the Others. They have an uneasy truce with humans but Meg is showing them that maybe not all humans are bad. The interpersonal lessons were heartwarming. But there was also plenty of action and suspense considering the factions out to get Meg. And while the immediate threat has been subdued - in grand fashion - Meg is still wanted. And I'm anxious for what comes next.

Meg is so genuine and sweet and compassionate. In many ways, she's like a child - not yet familiar with the world and therefore unbiased. You can't help but love her and all the Others prove just that. I'm hoping for something a little deeper to develop between Meg and Simon - a wolf shifter and the official leader of the Lakeside Courtyard.

I could go on and on but suffice it to say Written in Red was fan-freaking-tastic, I can't believe I waited so long to read it, and I will be continuing the series ASAP!

Robyn and I hadn't done a buddy read/blogger chat in quite awhile so we decided to do one for Written in Red. My text is in green, Robyn's is black. Enjoy!

What did you think of the story overall?

I fell into the story right away. I like stories that shift our world to the side just enough to fit a magical one inside. The Others were not likable and remained that way through the whole story and yet I quickly started liking them, even though they ate people! The blood prophet angle was new to me and there were times I felt queasy. I liked Meg immediately. She didn't back down even though nothing in her life was easy or safe. Simon was a growly unpleasant wolf. The supporting cast rocked. I loved the crows. I loved the idea of the Others having so many animal/magical traits that distanced themselves so much from humans they couldn't relate to the odd things humans did that are not actually odd.

I fell into the story immediately too. I loved that the Others were prickly and anti-heroes and heroines but I still ended up liking them...mostly because of how they took care of The Meg. :) I thought the blood prophet thing was interesting. Why are they considered human when they have a special ability? And why was it okay to keep them "captive"? I get humans selling the idea that blood prophets can't be by themselves...that part was sickening though. Simon. *sigh* I flove him! I love how caring he is even if he is super growly and would rather not have to stay in his human skin and doesn't know what to do when something that should smell like prey doesn't smell like prey. I think maybe that is why I loved the cast of characters so much...well, most of them anyway. And The Others in particular. They are scary and they do eat people. But they also take care of their own and they really stepped up when Meg became one of their own.

How did you feel about how the women were portrayed?

This one has me scratching my head as I try to remember feelings on this. The Others didn't seem to have any kind of male/female power struggle going on. Your standing revolved around your power and allies. The only woman really objectified in the story objectified herself and no one liked her for it. I would have liked more female cops/doctors/alpha leaders.

 

I felt like the women were portrayed as strong. I didn't like - can't think of her name - the bad woman. But I loved the scariness of Tess and Winter and yet they're still compassionate - at least where Meg is concerned.

What did you think of how everyone reacted to Meg?

It was one of the fun parts of the story, waiting for a new person to meet Meg. How will they react? Will they want to wrap her in bubble wrap because of the big bad scary Others? Will the Crows adopt her and start leaving shiny stuff for her? Will Simon ever stop growling? In that way, it felt kind of like a historical romance, all the nutty characters revolving around our awesome heroine.

Ooo, I love the comparison to HR. That's kinda true. And they all felt Meg needed taking care of. EVERYONE who met her, really. And yet, Meg was capable in her own way and she was taking care of them as well. I especially liked how she handled Sam. 

Are you totally shipping Meg and Simon?!?

(Are you totally??? what word did auto-correct fix?)

I'm laughing here...I meant, are you shipping Meg and Simon...as in wanting them to get to the good stuff! ;) I hope so hard that they get to the good stuff. :D

This is a new author for both of us, do you ever get new author apprehension? 

I do get new author apprehension. Particularly when it's an author that people, whose opinions I value, gush about the author. What if I don't like the author as much as my friend does? It's happened. But NOT in this case. I had it on good authority (*cough*Carmel*cough*) that this was a series must read.  

The Blood Prophet was a new magical ability for me, but the whole thing made me think of cutting and what a person gets out of it. Did you get that feeling? I couldn't figure out how I felt about that.

I liked having this new magical creature that I'd never heard of before but I did think about cutting initially. Then I decided to let it go. That way I could immerse myself in the story more. I don't know why Bishop chose to make blood prophets the way she did but in the end, it works. At least for me. 

Are we going to get good stuff in this series between Meg and Simon? Like in the next book? What's your guess? 

I certainly hope so! Who knows though. I'm going to guess it'll eventually happen but it might not be in the next book. But MAN do I hope it is!!! 

Who is your favorite character?

I don't know if I can decide...but I think I'd go with Meg. And then Sam. :) But honestly I loved them all. Except for the bad lady, of course. ;) Oh, and it was a close call with Elliot for a few minutes there.