**Sky Reviews ~ Soul Walker ~ Robyn Jones**

Soul Walker by Robyn Jones

Release date: 2012

Genre: Young Adult Paranormal/Fantasy

Source: Bought off Amazon

Rating: 5 Bookworms

Synopsis: 

"I need to get you to the hospital." He was taking responsibility for me. Only my parents had that job. I stretched my hand out in protest, but the lack of depth perception had my trembling fingers grazing his overheated neck. I swore his whole body shook.

When five-year-old Anna Pierce is offered a chance to have nightmare-free nights for the small price of her voice, she jumps at it. Silence has to be better than all-consuming dreams about blood and death and fangy monsters. The bargain she strikes comes with a secondary benefit, visions of a person's future potential. The combination of visions and silence changes her very nature and soon she's diagnosed with autism. Twelve years of living in her head comes to a screeching halt the moment Peter Davis pulls her out of an icy river. 

Her new life has her twirling, tiptoeing, and crashing through unfamiliar territory, one filled with a cranky grandma, a knocked up cousin, an unpleasant cousin, a bunch of mostly good vampires, and the boy who rescued her. 

To top it all off, the deal she made at five is no more. Anna is expected to talk, to figure out her resurfacing nightmares, and to control her ever-growing powers. And she'd better get it done soon because if the good vamps want a piece of a living, breathing Touched girl, the evil ones simply want. They'll take Anna for their very own.

***Sky's Review***

My mom has been raving about Robyn’s books since the first time she read them, which was before she and Robyn became best friends. I’ve been looking forward to reading her books for a long time because I know how great a storyteller Robyn is!

Soul Walker did not disappoint me. In particular, I loved the beautiful development of characters, and I especially loved Anna. I can relate a lot to the way Robyn described her thoughts and emotions as a kaleidoscope; I thought that the vivid visualization of these intangible elements was gorgeous. I can also relate to Anna’s overly trusting nature -- this was a flaw of hers but I kept forgetting that it was one. Generally, Anna is a wonderful character. I love her quirks and her bubbly personality.

It was a lot of fun to watch Anna enter the world and discover her place in it. That spoke to me, since this is the journey that I will undertake very soon. And although the vampire fad is long gone, I liked the very different approach to it that this book takes. I thought that it was very creative and it’s refreshing to read something so different.

Robyn does an amazing job of painting the world through Anna’s eyes. We don’t just see the maple tree -- we see that big, beautiful maple tree with the purple leaves and all of the connotations it has for Anna. I love it when a book takes me not only to a different place, but also turns me into a different person. Robyn does this from page one; when I was in the early stages of the book, I kept forgetting that I could speak, and as I kept reading, my thoughts started running in the voice of Anna (Robyn?) Her style of speaking is incredibly distinctive and infectious.

Really, the only critique I have is the relative abundance of comma splices. I know that they indicate a more informal style of writing, but four years of editing high schoolers’ work is hard for me to shake (high schoolers are notorious for having a horrible problem with comma splices, according to my teachers.) It bothers me mostly because each type of punctuation takes a separate amount of pause in my head, like musical rests, so comma splices just don’t sound right. Most people probably aren’t quite as neurotic as me, so it’s not really an issue.

Robyn’s writing is truly something magical. Her characters are colorful and full of life and her story is creative and comfortable. I look forward to reading more!

Rock Chick Chat ~ Fire Inside ~ Kristen Ashley

As y'all are probably aware of by now, my friend Robyn (@robgirlbooks) and I made a little bet on a Super Bowl which turned into a BIG love affair with all things Kristen Ashley. It remains the best bet I ever lost because it led us to KA's Rock Chick series and her Colorado Mountain series (which we'll get back to) and now her Chaos MC series. Robyn and I buddy read these and chat about them...and then share our chats. Here's our chat about Fire Inside, #2 in the Chaos series. Enjoy!

***

Fire Inside by Kristen Ashley
Chaos #2
Release Date: June 4, 2013
Genre: Adult, Contemporary Romance
Source: Purchased from Amazon for Kindle
Rating: 5 Bookworms
Goodreads

Synopsis
Lanie Heron isn't looking for love-no surprise, considering her last serious relationship nearly got her killed. So when Lanie propositions Hop Kincaid, all she wants is one wild night with the hot-as-hell biker who patrols with the Chaos Motorcycle Club...

For Hop, Lanie has always been untouchable. She's too polished and too classy for his taste. But when she gives Hop the once-over with her bedroom eyes and offers him a night in paradise, he can't say no. And he doesn't regret it when he finds that Lanie is the best thing that's ever happened to him-in or out of bed. Now the trick will be to convince her of that.

******

I've been waiting for you to start this conversation but I thought I throw a few of my thoughts your way. :)

Can you believe how Lanie just propositioned Hop? This woman...she has cajones. And she definitely bit off more than she thought she could chew. I liked that Hop really had to consider the ramifications of what would happen if they got together. I'm still waiting for the shit to hit the fan.

I don't remember how far I was into or what exactly Hop was saying, but I thought that I love how simplistically he looks at things. Not like everything is simple but that in his world, things are this way or they're not. I like his way of looking at the world and his place in it.

I adore Lanie's inner monologues. Getting to know her history, what went down that was alluded to in Own the Wind, I can see why she was fighting Hop. And I could see why her brain was "fucked up", as Hop said. So getting to hear her thoughts on how she saw herself and why she thought she had nothing to give...yeah, that was some good stuff.

Hop's kids are AWESOME! Sometimes when authors put kids in a story, it feels wrong or like it's a plot device. But seeing Hop with Molly and Cody, seeing how they all interact, seeing Lanie with them...it feels right. And it shows this whole other level to Hop. One that I like A. LOT. And I agreed with Lanie when she told him, "You're a good man, Hopper Kincaid."

I'm really liking that although Hop and Lanie come from different worlds, and kinda live in different ones, they just work. I know it's because they both don't give a shit what people think - and that's an attitude I'd love to adopt - but don't you think it's something that a badass biker, who's obviously all Alpha, can deal with the fact that his woman is a corporate success? That she can provide things for herself? Most men would be intimidated by that. But Hop is all "Anything you need, lady, I'm there for you one way or another." 

Which reminds me about when he first started using "lady". I didn't quite know what to think and was thinking it was kinda derogatory. When he explained, I melted. MELTED.

Lanie has a backbone, which I really like. Her standing up to her Dad? That was excellent!

Oh, and getting Hop's life story was also excellent. I melted some more when he told Lanie he didn't learn from his parents...he'd learned from doing. But he *did* learn and knew what he wanted to keep forever. *swoon*

Okay, I don't want to go on and on...I hope you're enjoying this as much as me. I have a good feeling that you are. You're so right...KA just does *not* disappoint.

Two more things....

The mustache...you know I'm not a huge fan of facial hair. And I have to say that I didn't imagine Hop looking like he does after meeting him in OtW, but he's sex on a stick, even with the 'tache.

Aaand, he's my new book boyfriend. Because... "Music is poetry, babe. Each note is a word that's uniquely crafted to go with the next note. For me, the only way it gets better is if you put that to lyrics." Yep. Gotta love a man like that. ;)

Oh, KA, I love you so much. Okay, now that the fangirling is out of the way...I could not believe Lanie's boldness when she walked up toHop and propositioned him. And then the no strings attached bit was so convincing I was taking it one day at a time with them. Hop's reaction, his respect for her and ability to see trouble walking won me over immediately. When he walked through her place and told himself he didn't get to have a look around and get to know her that way, the gesture was generous in a way I wasn't expecting. He wasn't going to take what wasn't given to him. Book girl crush time.

It's a strange layout again with this one where we get bits and pieces of this big drama in Lanie's past but it worked even better in book two. The bits we were given we needed to understand the push and pull she was doing with Hop (and herself). Didn't you just love Hop's role as shield? He wasn't down with her losing all that beauty and life to the "monster." He was all about being part of a team in whatever way he could support her. And you are so right that her money didn't seem to play a factor with him just as much as him being a biker and member of an MC didn't bother her. 

What about Hop's honesty? I was so shocked the first time he brought up a previous hookup and than even more shocked at her ultra grown up reaction. Do you think she could be like that because he made it so clear she's a lady to him and nothing less and he's never had anything but less? I'm thinking I'd tell the guy not to tell me about a bathroom stall bang. There is the age factor. He's 40, she's 38. Gotta say, that rocked! Plus he's a dad. You don't get that very often and the kids were awesome. There wasn't a forced parent makeover for a few pages in the book whenever Hop had his kids around. 

Oh, the freaking tache! I'm so annoyed that KA has finally done it. I actually find it hot that Hop has a tache. Ugh! But he is so hot and man. I hated it on Luke and pretended to miss all facial hair references. Man!

Okay, I'm off to read more. Love being back with Chaos!

I finished! It feels like I went on a reading bender and read it in a single day, maybe it's just that the story is right there, taking over my thoughts.

The music is poetry business was huge! Epic! In book one I wasn't impressed with the tidbits we learned about Hop, which was through Shy's and Tabby's eyes. I remember Tabby hoping the best for Lanie and it's so cool at the same time Lanie was thinking the same thing. That's one of the neat things about KA and always has been, girl solidarity. I loved the part early on with Lanie doing that stupid thing going to that rough neck bar and being sold out by a fellow girl. She was mostly pissed about that. And then how Lanie didn't likeHop's early descriptions of Mitzy. What a piece of work that one. Even Lanie's mom who has a long way to go to redeem herself never lost her girls' support when she needed it. KA also gives men credit too, not just with the brotherhood, but she lets them be deep and shallow at the same time and she lets them be so over the top alpha they get what they want, but boy do they work/pay for it.

Did you catch the part about the song doesn't have to be eternal, but if you have a rhyme to share, a story to tell, it's worth it? That had to come out of the heart of an indie writer. Well, and Debbie Macomber because she says the same thing. 

For whatever reason I got a Rock Chick Revolution vibe, Ally and Ren's story, not the action, but the push and pull of the relationship maybe. Not sure, but now I want to re-read that one.

So, I had to wait until you were done because there were things I wanted to say but I couldn't remember where these things were in the timeline and I didn't want to spoil anything. :)

I believed Lanie when she said 'one night' too. But that admission she makes towards the end. Damn! That and all the things Hop had to say had me tied up in knots. Oh, and the "I don't get this" that they both felt - I broke my heart, honestly, because we could see how much they both wanted all those things they didn't feel they 'got' because they didn't have *that* kind of relationship. Even though they totally did.

The layout was similar but I didn't get lost in the timeline this time. I think it was because it was usually 1 week or 2 weeks later. I did like how KA presented the backstory in bits and pieces. I liked that those bits were usually given when Lanie and Hop were sharing honest moments and were laying it all out. It was interesting that they both had monsters that needed slaying - and that they were both able to help one another slay those monsters...they gave each other that.

So I was wrong about Lanie's job not being mentioned because it did end up being mentioned but that they each accepted one another, respected one another, just how they came was something. I think we *all* look for that in our friendships and relationships. Those two could definitely jump into the deep end over words, but I admit to being irritated when Hop told Lanie she should know what kind of man he is. Yes, that's true and she did, in her heart. But her monster would of course raise it's head over the information she'd learned because of her history. And yes, she pulled a drama over it - but Hop knew her and her reactions, so even though her words were awful, it shouldn't have surprised him.

Hop and Lanie were very intense...and although they kept certain things from each other, at least initially, they were nothing if not honest. No, I wouldn't want all his honesty if it were me. But I like that you said Lanie reacted in a grown up way. Because she absolutely did. I'm not sure I could be that mature. *ha* His words about how he'd never do her in a stall because a lady shouldn't be treated that way...crude but sooo swoonworthy! 

And I was absolutely tickled about their ages being so close to ours. It's nice to read hot romances with couples who are 'mature'. *winks* I loved watching both Hop and Lanie with his kids. And you're right - he was always just Hop whether he had his kids or not. I admired that about him. But with Hop, you got what you saw.

So KA won you over to the dark side, huh? I admit I kinda thought Luke rocked the stache but Hop...H.O.T. I have such a vivid image of him in my mind and he rocks a 'tache like no one else. Mm-mmm!! (not that I want my man to grow one!)

I'm still thinking about Lanie and Hop too and I've had to move on! But I gotta say I have a heckavu book hangover. KA always does that to me...

I'm glad you enjoyed the music element as well. I had to youtube You'll Accompany Me because I didn't recognize the title. And it must be said that after listening to the lyrics, it made that scene all the more poignant. I'd have been standing up in my chair yelling to Hopthat he's the shit too! Man!! KA knows how to incorporate good music, doesn't she? It meant to much that Lanie was spending every night drinking wine and listening to Bob Seger when she and Hop were apart. Seger's lyrics really speak volumes about those two.

I have to tell you something...when I finished and I told my kindle to 'go to' the beginning, I realized that my copy of Fire Inside was an ARC from Netgalley. So those extra things you talked about with what Hop said about music? They weren't in my copy. And I'm thinking I'm going to have to buy a copy just so I can read it again - and see what changed. (yeah, that's totally the only reason why *winks*)

KA does have a way of conveying the importance of sisterhood - how did you say it? Oh, girl solidarity. Yeah. I do like how all her heroines have their girls at their backs. It is important. And girls should always back their girls - whether they know each other or not. You're right that she does the same for her Alphas. She stresses the loyalty factor between them and they do all have each others' backs...maybe more so than the girls, at times. I've not experienced a 'family' of friends having my back but I like the idea. And chickie, I've ALWAYS got YOUR back, distance be damned.

I didn't get the Rock Chick Revolution vibe while reading but I can see where it would have come from. There was a lot of push and pull between Lanie and Hop, just like with Ally and Ren, if for different reasons. I liked the push and pull between Lanie and Hop better because it wasn't just a matter of a misunderstanding or just being plain ornery. (sorry, Ally!) Lanie and Hop had been through a lot of shit. They had their monsters to contend with. But they had something special and I was so glad they fought for it. Although, I had my doubts a few times.

So you thought Luke rocked the tache? Luke. Mmm. Okay, back to Hop. When he went up on stage, weren't you right there with Lanie saying What? What? How could you add rock star to the already long list of awesomeness? I had to youtube the song too. You're right about KA knowing her music. She always seems to incorporate music into her books and in different ways. 

One thing I'm still missing is the zaniness. I want some crazy and not just Lanie's brand of crazy that makes her break up with Hop a million times. But I get it, this is a motorcycle club and they can't all have a thing for fancy coffees and old bookstores. We did get a RC world cameo. Teeny cameo and it still made me grin.

Now we have book 3 calling out to us and this massive book hangover that is still hanging. So mid-August and we'll see who these two new characters are since they are both a mystery to us. Lexxie gave it 5 stars though. Oh, last thought, isn't it always a surprise how many pages KA's books are because we read them like they're novellas? 

More KA. More buddy reads. I hope we get more of the Beneto storyline because I'd like to see his ass severely kicked. He is not nice.

I did think Luke rocked his 'stache. Man, he's all kinds of yum. Yet still not my favorite Hot Bunch guy. ;) I'm thinking Hop is my favorite Chaos guy though. But it is a close race because Shy...that is all. But Hop has so much going for him - his age, his kids, his honesty, his former rock star status, his knight in leather armor status...see what I mean? Totally my newest book boyfriend. :)

The zaniness is not there - I don't count Lanie's behavior - and I do miss it. I think KA tried to inject some of it with Elvira but since she's seen so little, it's not much zaniness. But I also like that there's a little more seriousness in this series. The Chaos brothers set a different tone than the Hot Bunch. They don't have a Tex or a Duke. But I'm thinking that's okay. I do really, really like that KA gives us glimpses of those characters though. ;)

Mid-August baby. We'll hit #3. I admit I'm kinda nervous since it's new characters but hey, I was nervous to start this series and it's been an amazing ride so far. I was glad to see Lexxie gave it 5-Stars because that means KA is *still* rocking. I don't know how I'll feel if she ever disappoints me. I don't even want to think about it, honestly. Oh, and yes I am always shocked at how long her books are. Because they absolutely do *not* feel long. I inhale and devour them and I know you do too. She's just that good. And I'm looking forward to a good ass kicking of Benito. He is not a good guy...

My final thoughts...
If KA writes it, I'm gonna love it! This second book in the Chaos series had everything I expect from KA - minus a little zaniness. But what it lacks in zany, it definitely made up for in the feels. My goodness. Hop is my latest book boyfriend. He packs in so much - a hot man on a motorcycle, with a moral compass, a great dad, a former rock star, and with a brutal honesty you can't hate. He's intense and when Lanie steers his intensity towards her, sparks fly. Lanie has survived so much. She's beautiful, successful, but she's not being honest with herself or the monster that lives inside her. This couple is my favorite Chaos couple so far. And bonus points for their age!

Brandee's Bookish Babble #6 ~ How Dark is Too Dark?

Welcome to Brandee's Bookish Babble. There are many, many similar posts to this one - but basically I wanted a place to discuss bookish and/or blogging stuff and I needed a title. :) So this is my new discussion feature.

***

Recently, my friend Robyn (@robgirlbooks) and I read the first 2 books in CD Reiss' Songs of Corruption series. As the title implies, it's not reading-lite. While chatting about the books, Robyn confided that the characters' actions were disturbing her...keeping her awake. She's the same way with certain tv series, such as Sons of Anarchy. I, on the hand, had no such issues. But as she was telling me how dark themes and morally questionable characters make her feel, I began wondering how dark is too dark?

Me? I haven't met a dark book I didn't like. I appreciate the provocative nature of dark books...seeing characters do things that toe - and sometimes cross - the lines morally and ethically. I like seeing the fallout from the actions. I like diving into the psychology behind a person's actions. It's all very compelling...for me.

I figure we all have our limits even if I haven't found mine yet. And I figure our limits are as different as we are in in our reading tastes. So I want to know...what are you limits? Do you know? How dark is too dark?

Rock Chick Chat ~ Own the Wind ~ Kristen Ashley

For those of you who don't know, back in February 2014, there was this little game played. You may have heard of it? The Super Bowl?? Well, in 2014 the opposing teams were the Denver Broncos (my hometown team) and the Seattle Seahawk (my friend Robyn's hometown team). Neither Robyn nor I are the betting kind of people, but how could we not? So we bet that if the Broncos won, we'd read a book set in Seattle and if the Seahawks won, we'd read a book set in Denver. Do you remember how that turned out?  :/

So we started a little series set in Denver called Rock Chick by Kristen Ashley and became HUGE fangirls as well as honorary Rock Chicks. Since fniishing the series, we've gone on to other KA series. This month we read Own the Wind, the first installment in the Chaos series. Here's out chat. I hope you enjoy it!



Own the Wind
Chaos #1
Release Date: April 2, 2013
Genre: Adult, Contemporary Romance
Source: Purchased on nook
Rating: 4.5 Bookworms

Synopsis

Too hot to handle...

Tabitha Allen grew up in the think of Chaos--the Chaos Motorcycle Club, that is. Her father is Chaos' leader, and the club has always had her back. But one rider was different from the start. When Tabby was running wild, Shy Cage was there. When tragedy tore her life apart, he helped her piece it back together. And now, Tabby's thinking about much more than friendship.

Tabby is everything Shy's ever wanted by everything he thinks he can't have. She's beautiful, smart, and as his friend's daughter, untouchable. Shy never expected more than friendship, so when Tabby indicates she wants more--much more--he feels like the luckiest man alive. But even lucky men can crash and burn...

***Rock Chick Chat***

Robyn: I'm loving it! Are you loving it? I'm still at the beginning, but it's KA all the way! And Fortnums for that one second was such a thrill! How can we love a series so much that the mere glimpse of past characters feels like we just ran into old friends at the airport? 

Off to read more (of course!!)

BB: I stayed up later than I should have reading because yeah, I'm loving it! I don't know how it is that we can love a series so much that being in Fortnum's for a second was so awesome. But it certainly was. KA is an author who can just pull you in immediately. OtW does have a slightly different feel from other KA books we've read. I'm thinking maybe it's because there hasn't been anything over-the-top...at least not yet. 

***

Dang it! It's killing me to have to stop and do anything because, as with every KA book we read, all I want to do is READ!

So yeah, I'm finding that KA's distinctive voice is present in this series as well. I really do adore the cadence with which all her badass heroes speak. Shy is no different. And I adore the Tabby isn't going to take shit - not even his.

Specifically, I was cheering even as my heart cracked when Tabby told Shy he'd made judgements and he didn't know her. And as much as I delight in reading about a badass alpha, particularly one who rides a motorcycle ;) I'm going to rant on him for a minute. I could give him a pass over his error in judgement...I didn't like that he did that but I understood where it was coming from. You know? He made me a melty puddle of goo when he was there for Tabby when she needed him to be. BUT I don't understand how he could take on a *woman* when he was just passing the time. How can guys do that? And how is that fair? (in fairness, I'm ranting at the general male population, not just Shy)

I think there are some books (and some authors) that should come with pause buttons so we can stop everything around us and read our book! I'm reading and then suddenly the phone rings or the kids demand food as if they didn't eat yesterday! Rant over. KA is awesome. OtW has a different vibe than RC and you're right about the girls not being as wild. The men are alpha enough, but in a different way, less broody and more entitled. We're bikers, deal, babe. Or not and get out. This one also jumps ahead regularly where RC cuts to the past regularly with backstory that never was annoying (a hard feat). What did you think of the time jumps? 

Oh and getting the male POV first and for a while was cool. I think we needed a solid footing with Shy or he'd piss us off too much as the story went on. He does not pull punches when he needs to "sort shit out." Then we meet Tabby and she's feisty and unforgiving. I liked that she didn't melt for Shy and held a grudge and just kept holding it. I liked how pissed that made Shy. But I loved that part when he sees her in that red dress with her man and he's on his bike. I loved how that just pushed him into wanting that love for himself and not just wanting Tabby. 

So you were pissed about the side girlfriend, huh? I was shocked and not shocked and shocked some more! I didn't know how to process it. He made me love him (not as much as Tabby, but still). They cuddled. Freaking cuddled. You don't cuddle when you have a girl. Nope. I guess I'm right there with you and Tabby. Still, they both needed a fire lit or they'd friend themselves to death! 

Okay, I've read further...of course! And Shy redeemed himself a bit in my eyes. I'm glad he explained Rosalie to Tabby. That made me feel better right along with her. I still don't completely understand but I'm glad he took the time to explain. And can I just say that once Shy starts talking, the man lays it all out. Am I right? Damn! 

The next scene in Fortnum's...loved it! Tex booming VIP, slopping coffee grounds. *sigh* And Jett telling Tabby he was harmless. Good stuff! And the talk between Tabby and Shy's brother, Landon...excellent stuff! I was really kinda wishing Shy had overheard what she had to say. Because in a way, I felt those words belonged to him first and foremost. But I was glad they were out and it did need to be said to Lan.

I'm really excited to see how Tabby is going to find that *balance* she so admires between her Dad and Tyra. The way the sparks fly between her and Shy, I'm sure we're in for a hell of a ride. :)

Fortnums! More Tex and his coffee and shouting. I loved that they had coffee there and the tension building with Landon and what he had to say, I was just as nervous at the start as Tabby. And then she let him have it in a good way because it was slightly out of control like she always is when it comes to Shy. I'm thinking we'll get a Lan book, right? Maybe a Rush book too? Her brother wasn't a big part of the story but the building conflict, the fact that he's gorgeous and bossy speak to future main character potential. 

I was still conflicted about the Rosalie situation. I liked how Tabby listened and wanted to sort it out. She let Shy have his say and she could see he needed her to listen. Way more mature than I am. 

You mentioned sparks, whoa! In battle and in love. Those two. I love how they bicker. Some people bicker and you want to close your eyes and make yourself disappear. Those two fight and I want a bag of chips and a comfy seat.

I finished earlier today. Are you finished? 

Hot damn! That's what I gotta say. We've begun *another* KA series that ROCKS! Tabby is a kickass heroine. I so enjoy watching her stand up to Shy - or try to - when she feels strongly about something. Her "freeze outs" crack me up. Shy also delighted me with always knowing just what to say...even if Tabby may not like it. And I was right about those sparks flying! But dang! Watching them find the balance...that's something.

I'm glad we're getting acquainted with other characters - particularly Tack and Tyra but I enjoyed meeting Hop, too. And Elvira! Woowheee! I'm thinking we'll enjoy seeing more of her and Malik. 

What did you think of Chaos' reaction to Tabby and Shy? It kinda broke my heart, honestly. I mean, I knew they wouldn't necessarily be happy about it but I didn't expect the way things went down. I adored how Shy handled it...what he said. I was thinking "God, I love my man" right along with Tabby. And Tabby's *talks* with both Tyra and her dad? Priceless. I could only hope to get out all that needed to be said as eloquently as she did. 

Natalie? I have to say I had no real love her that girl. Especially after she came in and said all those things she said to Tabby and Shy...about Shy. If she reappears, it's going to take a lot for me to forgive her.

Did you enjoy getting to see Lee? I'd completely forgotten about Tabby's meeting with him. And then, there he is in all his badassness. I could totally see him standing there. He's such a good guy, isn't he? I mean, he may do things in his job that stretch moral boundaries, but he's a good guy. I was tickled pink getting to see him. And that he did what he did? 

What did you think of how things went down with Shy, his aunt and uncle, and the scumbag? I wanted to hug each and every one of his brothers. They totally had his back and I was proud of them. And I was proud of Shy as well. 

The ending - and epilogue...KA made me cry!! CRY, Robyn! "I dreamed a dream..." That's good stuff right there. Left me feeling warm and fuzzy.

The only thing noticeably missing from OtW was a girl brawl. But I'm thinking we may not get one of those in this series because these babes, they're not quite as wild. I think that's kinda funny in a way. But I also think it's a reflection of the lives they live.

I freaking love this book! I can't wait until we can read the next one. 

I finished too! I was more obsessed with this one and I think it's because we haven't had a KA fix in a long time. Too long, Brandee. Not pointing fingers at anyone. I needed to follow the relationship along. I loved when they were friends. Truly. It was so good and real and they both needed that. And then when it became more and the real world jumped in with their two cents, boy. I was just as pissed at Tabby and Shy! What the hell? I loved her not holding back and LOVED Shy's speech. Hot damn! 

And Lee! I did not forget about that meeting. I thought KA forgot about it. She told us there was going to be a meeting and then said nothing more. I was waiting and waiting and she still caught me off guard. The brothers needed to go big to redeem themselves and they did. 

So you cried at the ending did you? That line "dream" line got me every single time! That was such good stuff. I told you already I loved the red dress scene. And "dream" links back to that and to the first time Shy really want something. 

What did you think of the supporting cast? I was a little frustrated with this history with Tyra and Lanie that we know nothing about but was referenced several times. Was that a novella or do you think we'll get it during Lanie's story? I think we need a Tex type figure. We need some comic relief because it looks like things are going to get serious. Still I loved it. LOVED IT! The tone and vibe were different, even the style, but not the voice. And not the dialogue. You're so right about that. 

When dear Brandee are we hitting Chaos 2? Crazy how one Superbowl bet turned into a life of its own and characters that are so part of us now! You chose to give me Rock Chick and see what happened?

Good stuff! 

Not pointing fingers, huh? *hangs head* I won't let it happen again. ;) I so agree with the pause button - that would help a lot! I feel kinda bad for my kiddos when I start a KA book (and certain others as well ;) Yesterday morning, I got up and had breakfast and coffee...the next thing I know it's 9:00 a.m. and I haven't fed my kids yet! (they're spoiled - I still make them breakfast) 

So I was thinking about what you said about the alphas in OtW - about them having a different vibe than the Hot Bunch. That's totally true. And I agree that the Chaos guys are definitely NOT broody. They "lay it out" when they've got something on their mind. And I think I almost prefer that. I like what you said about how "mature" Shy is. I think they all are - maybe more so than the Hot Bunch? I think it's fantastic that they talk. You know? Even when all the shit went down once Shy and Tabby were outed, they still ended up being mature.

I really like the dynamic between Shy and Tabby - how they both read each other so well and know when to "lay it out" and when to give the other the space they need before laying it out.

Omigosh, did I love when Shy saw Tabby and her guy. I did like that it made him decide he wanted that for himself. But I also admit to getting a little misty-eyed at the thought that it wouldn't be from her. Oh, here's a link to I Dreamed a Dream sung by Anne Hathaway...https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=86lczf7Bou8 And I loved getting his POV, too. It really adds to the story, doesn't it?

And I guess you're right about Rosalie being the fire that was needed but it still bothered me. Of course, like Shy said, he didn't know if Tabby'd ever get there. That scene..."You're not leaving." Holy hotness!! That was a great scene...and this book was filled with lots of them. *ha* 

Being in Fortnum's was extra sugar. I loved getting to hear Tex boom "V I P". I wonder if a character like him will be introduced in Chaos - we shall see. 

I hope we get a Lan book. I think we'll definitely get a Rush book. I know Hop's is next and I agree with you in needing some more backstory on Lanie. So I'm hoping we get that. I don't know who else we'll get books about...I was wondering about Delgado? But he's not Chaos, so... 

You're right about the needed comedic relief. I guess that's why I missed the girl bar brawls. :) Oh, and there's not a Daisy character. 

Still thinking on this today, I also wanted to mention how much I enjoyed the "talk" between Shy and Tack. When Tack was talking about the kind of man he wanted for Tabby...*sniff* Yep, I got misty-eyed again. I liked that conversation. A.LOT.

It is pretty fabulous where a simple Super Bowl bet has led us, isn't it? Who knew it'd turn us into such rabid KA fangirls? I have said it before and I'll say it again, it was the best bet I've EVER lost. 

There is no Daisy or Tex. Tyra is cool but way too collected to be in the same league as wild insightful mama bear Daisy. Delgado is sure interesting. I wonder if he headlines another series of her. He's rich material for sure. Even without the girl brawls we both loved Chaos because it's still all about the story and the characters and Shy and Tabby have a great story. I'm also thrilled we're spoiling ourselves. We should. We rock you know.


My final thoughts: Ah, stepping into a KA novel, even the first on in a series, is just...comfortable. Once again, she proved she will always deliver a riveting story with real and compelling characters. Own the Wind had a slightly different feel to it than KA's other series - it lacked zaniness - but it was enthralling nevertheless. I can't wait to read Fire Inside.

**Rock Chick Chat ~ Rock Chick Revolution ~ Kristen Ashley**

So we've come to the end, y'all. The final Rock Chick installment... I can't believe it's over. I've made some really good friends...found some H.O.T. book boyfriends...laughed and cried. Robyn and I are officially Rock Chicks now. And so our book chats will be called, from this point forward, Rock Chick Chats. Oh yes, we have many more Kristen Ashley reads to hit. And I think we're both ecstatic over that! I'll have to see what football bets I can come up with. ;)

Grab a cup of coffee, sit back and relax, and enjoy our chat!

***

Rock Chick Revolution
Rock Chick #8
Genre: Adult, Contemporary Romance
Release Date: August 13, 2013
Source: Purchased from Amazon
Rating: 5 Bookworms!
Goodreads

Synopsis
Ally Nightingale has secrets. Secrets she doesn't even share with the Rock Chicks. But two men know what she's up to. One has her back. The other has her heart, but he doesn't know it.

As Ally rewinds the last year of her life, she knows two things. One, she's never going to get what every Rock Chick should have - her own Hot Bunch guy. And two, she's a Nightingale through and through. She just isn't sure what to do about that.

But as her secrets are revealed, the men in her life react. Darius Tucker, a lifelong friend, as usual takes her back. Ren Zano, the man she loves, isn't quite so sure. The Rock Chicks, Hot Bunch and the entire gang at Fortnum's weigh in, and a Rock Chick Revolution starts brewing.

It's up to Ally to control it and prove what she knows down to her bones. 

She's a Rock Chick, she deserves her hot guy and she's going to keep the one she wants...

Because she's a Nightingale. 


My final thoughts...
This final book in the Rock Chick series was, to quote Ally, righteous! It was the perfect ending to a series that is one of my all-time favorites. It's been quite a ride and I've loved every second of it.

Thank you, Kristen Ashley, for introducing me to "a motley crew of cops and crooks, bounty hunters and baristas, PI's and rock stars, hot guys and Rock Chicks." You've made them my people. My family. :)

*****

Robyn: Rock Chick mania! How is it that Ren is so different from the other Hot Bunch guys and still right in line with them? Ally is plain crazy, but not like Indy. Indy is just wild. Ally always seems to be in search of something. Her own HEA, her purpose in life, scumbags worthy of a knee to the nuts? All of those I think. I like how street Ally and Ren are when they bicker with each other. Not an ounce of composure when they tussle. I remember when she got pissed that Indy was in so much danger and instead of letting the police handle chasing the bad guys when they sped away she put the car in gear and went after them with angry gusto. Everyone was pissed at her, but she was going to get justice for her BFF. 

What do you think of the beginning, all that back story? I almost never like that, but Kristen Ashely gives us the goods so good. I want more of their history. 

Brandee: It was a bad day...because I had to work and all I wanted to do was read Ren & Ally!! Robyn, I may be a little bit in love with Ren. Yes, he is different than the other Hot Bunch guys and  yet still sooo much the same. Ally is crazy but I have to say I love her brand of crazy. She is definitely looking for something...but that she'd do anything to help someone she loves and never goes back on a promise...that's the good stuff. I am really enjoying getting to really know Ally...and Ren. Their bickering is righteous, as Ally would say. Her explanations of fights and talks with Ren crack me up.

You're absolutely right about KA giving the goods so good. I want more of their history too. I have to admit to crying when a certain scene is repeated...both because of the original scene and Ally's perspective of it. It has been rather interesting to learn what all Ally's been up to while all the other Rock Chicks were getting their HEA, huh? I thought it was telling when Ally said she and Indy knew each other's secrets...well, Indy knew *most* of hers. Why do you think she kept everything with Ren on the down-low? 

So much has happened and I'm only at 22%! I'm off to read...

There always seemed to be another world Ally lived in while the other Rock Chick's got their HEA, I just wasn't sure what. I thought it was pretty amazing in the first Rock Chick when she was the one to find Rosie. She beat all the boys. I think she has good reasons for keeping her secrets, but I sort of think she also didn't want to ever be jealous of her girls and the only way to do that was to safeguard a few things. Or I could be over thinking it. 

So you're in love with Ren, huh? That fight with Luke over Ava in the parking lot was so dang awesome (a few books ago) and I remember Ava jumping to his aid, but doing it in a bossy hot chick way. I've been waiting for their story and I am just loving how different this one is mapped out. She isn't fighting her feelings. He isn't pulling out the handcuffs, yet. He's bossy in bed, but way into talking things through. It's just so dang good! 

I'm at the 28 percent mark and I really have to get some sleep, so that means, I'll be up late again! Happy reading tomorrow!

I did find a nice stopping place - one where I was in love with Ren again. :) I'm sooo tired and I just can't put it down. It's one of my favorites in the series too.

I like how you said Ally always seemed to live in her own world - she's different than all the other Rock Chicks. I really like that KA gave her a book that is different than all the others. She is different. She doesn't fight her feelings - not exactly anyway. And Ren is one hot-headed Italian American hottie ;) but he's not your typical Hot Bunch guy. He's Ren. And she's Ally. *sigh* What did you think of his comment about her being the backbone?

Their first date? Classic! Especially the end of it - both at the restaurant and at home. ;) 

What are your feelings about Hank and Lee being so against Ally's chosen profession? Gotta say I wasn't real thrilled with Ren's initial feelings and then...he made me all melty right along with Ally.

What did you think about the family dinner that was ambushed? And how Ren handled things? And how Mal handled things with Ren?

We haven't seen a lot of Amalea yet, but I adore Ren's mom already!

Okay, I'm off to read until I can no longer hold my eyes open...

***

I'm tired and I haven't had nearly enough time with Ren & Ally today! *pouts* 

Tomorrow won't be much better as I'm attending a birthday celebration 'down the hill'. Hopefully I can squeeze in some time with this Rock Chick, Rock Chick, Rock Chick! *squee*

We gotta talk Duke...how does  he always know what to say and when to say it??

I have a Rock Chick hangover. This installment is my top favorite along with the first one. Not as funny as Indy's book, but so much more emotional and something else, not sure what. 

Duke, man, Duke is the most huggable character in the entire series. Just thinking of him I get emotional. During one of his heavy scenes I was at the library waiting in a room with 3 best selling authors who were about to do a mystery writers panel. They were chatting about movie rights, not kidding, and I was trying not to bawl my eyes out! I realize maybe this was an opportunity to chat up authors, but the whole morning into afternoon I had been running around and it was my first opportunity to sit and relax. And it wasn't a Kristen Ashley talk. Nope. 

Ally is so laid back, she's my idol. She's the pretty girl version of Duke. She's also the perfect mix of Lee, Hank, and Indy. And Ren? He's top dog right now. I will have to re-read all the books and see if he's still the champ of all the Alphas in this series. I freaking love him! 

Oh my goodness, Dawn! How awesome was every single scene with Dawn and Ally. Okay, gotta go. Football Sunday! More RC chatting later. 

I had an epiphany about one thing that made Ally different from the other Rock Chicks...she's not as soft. She talks like Hot Bunch guy, right? She can be soft and mushy but her strength, inner and outer comes from a different place than the other girls'. She is BADASS! In a Hot Bunch guy badass kinda way. I guess she is the perfect mix of Lee, Hank, & Indy. And yeah, kinda the female version of Duke.

God, I loved this book. It was amazing in how perfectly it wrapped up everything. I'm so completely satisfied with how things are for all my Rock Chick friends. Ally and Ren's book left me with *that feeling* Ally kept talking about.

The Darius thing - I just didn't know how Ally was gonna straighten out his shit. But she did. Of course, it took a Rock Chick ride to do it, but she did it. And it made me warm with that feeling. :)

I was kinda pissed at Lee for all his big brother protectiveness. Although I wasn't surprised. I was kinda surprised Hank caved. Those two boys and their love for their sister also made me warm with that feeling. 

Omigosh, Dawn. Hell yeah, I loved all her scenes...particularly when she got put in her place. *haha*

Ren...*sigh* yeah, he's definitely top alpha for me as well. Funny enough, I can't tell you why. Maybe it's just the way that he and Ally fit? He can be bossy - but usually just in bed, where it doesn't bother Ally. (and wouldn't bother me either...just sayin') But maybe it's really because with the other Hot Bunch guys, they give their women what they need but they do so by beating them over the head with it until the Rock Chick capitulates. Ren...he just gave Ally what she needed in his own quiet way...no beating over the head required. (although I wanted to beat her over the head in the beginning) What do you think it is that makes Ren top alpha?

Oh, and by the way, getting Duke's background...yeah, that explained so much. This whole group is who they are because of all the strong male and female role models they grew up with. It didn't matter if their dad wasn't in the picture or their mom died when they were young, there were all these other strong adults to step in, fill that role, and love 'em strong.That is family. They were all a family. (I'm getting the feeling again...plus the heat behind my eyes *sniff*)

I have a book hangover for sure. But the bright side is we can follow Mace & Stella to LA. :)

Also, I had to go look up Stana Katic from Castle so I could see what Ren thought Ally looked like....gotta say, that was pretty close to how I pictured her. :) 

I got a little book depressed after I finished this one. The last Rock Chick. It was so good and fresh, nothing felt like a rewind of the other stories and there isn't another one to plan for next month! I know we get to follow Mace and Stella, but I want more Ally and Ren dammit! Okay, so that's my four day long rant that's been going on in my head. I can get back to our chat. 

Ally was so much like the boys, she talked and thought like them. She wore the pretty underthings, but the girl was a kid sister raised by a tough  mom with a crazy best friend and two Alpha brothers. She's an alpha chick, that's what she is. Which is why I loved so much how she was with Ren. She never took on a fight with him just to win. If it meant something to him, she was good with it, but if it meant the world to her, she stayed true to herself. She didn't sell Ren or herself short. I know I was frustrated with both of them at different times, but I'm still wearing my rose colored glasses when I think back on it all. I can't remember what pissed me off! 

Ren's alpha-ness is a puzzle. He has some old fashioned ideas buried deep down in his upbringing that rears its head every now and then, but usually he's this equal opportunity male, give and take, share and communicate. Ally loves all his taking (goodness!), but not so much his communicating. 

The series did wrap up nicely, so I can feel free to re-read it whenever I want. We have to hit the Colorado Man series soon so I don't fall into another book depression. That's a real thing, you know. It's been so neat doing these buddy reads with you Brandee! Great books and awesome chats! Best football bet ever!

I'm with you on the book depression...definitely a hangover after finishing Ren & Ally. It's sad to think there isn't more Rock Chick for us. I know I'll re-read this series because it was *that* awesome. And yeah, we can follow Mace & Stella...but I'm still replaying scenes from Ren & Ally. And it's a week later?!? I was thinking about that scene where Tush is played...you know the one. Damn, Ren is so freaking hot!

Ally - yeah, I think I most admire her and aspire to be like her. I love that she's just as much one of the guys as she is a Rock Chick. And I thought of you every time she was gonna cry - since neither of you like doing that shit. :) I really think they are my favorite couple because I adore how they are with one another. You're right about Ally never selling herself short with Ren. But he didn't either. They both took into account whether or not something was important to the other and never dug in their heels just because. I think, maybe in a way, they were the most mature. Does that make sense? 

And I've said it for every one of these books but I'm amazed at how fresh KA keeps things in every single installment. This one though, it takes the cake. *sigh*

YES! We will start the Colorado Man series next month so we can avoid book depression. There are so many KA books to choose from. AND we have books to buddy read from our two other football bets. :) I do agree though...this was the best football bet EVER. I'm thrilled to have lost because in the end, we both won! :)

**When Life's Kicking Your Butt, How About a Theme Song? ~ December**

Happy December! As y'all know, my pal, Robyn, over @robgirlbooks, issued a challenge for 2014. She wanted us to come up with a song - one a month - that we turn to when life is getting us down...when we need a pick-me-up...when we need motivation...well, you get the picture. :) Well, 2014 is almost over and we've created a fabulous playlist. This was a fun challenge. I've been introduced to some new music, which is always nice. And I've enjoyed sharing some of my family's favorites. I hope you've enjoyed them as well!

***

This month's theme is... Holiday of course! ;)  I hope these songs put a little pep in your step and some holiday spirit into your day!

My Picks
I couldn't choose just one. :) Obviously, I like instrumentals. And since my kids and I always participate in the Polar Express Night every year @B&N, I couldn't resist sharing Hot Chocolate!

James' Pick



Sky's Pick

Berk's Pick

Jax's Pick