Review ~ Jagged ~ Kristen Ashley

Jagged by Kristen Ashley
Colorado Mountain Series #5
Release Date: November 5, 2013
Genre: Adult, Contemporary Romance
Source: Purchased in Paperback
Rating: 5 Bookworms
Challenges: #ShelfLove
Goodreads ~ Amazon

Synopsis
An old flame rekindled...

Zara Cinders always knew Ham Reece was the one, but he wasn't interested in settling down. When she found someone who was, Ham walked out of her life. Three years later, Zara's lost her business, her marriage, and she's barely getting by in a tiny apartment on the wrong side of the tracks. As soon as Ham hears Zara's plight, he's on her doorstep offering her a lifeline. Now, it will take every ounce of will power she possesses to resist all that he offers.

Ham was always a traveling man, never one to settle down in one town, with one woman, for more time that absolutely necessary. But Ham's faced his own demons, and he's learned a lot. About himself, and about the life he knows he's meant to live. So when he hears that Zara's having a rough time, he wants to be the one to help. In fact, he wants to do more than that for Zara. A lot more. But first, he must prove to Zara that he's a changed man.

Kristen Ashley never disappoints and even though Jagged was slightly different from its predecessors in the series - the suspense element was muted - it was every bit the fantastic read I expected.

Graham "Ham" Reece was introduced in For You, the first book in KA's The 'Burg series. After what he experiences in that book, he takes a long, hard look at this life and realizes he made a mistake. He let his one get away. And knowing what he knows about Zara, he sets about getting her back into his life.

Zara hasn't had the easiest life but she's definitely made lemonade out of the lemons. Having Ham in her life was always the sweet - until she had to let him go. When her life has once again gone off path, she's surprised to find him back in town - to say. But for how long?

These two - oh my goodness! They're something. They're both stubborn and hard-headed. And they know when to fight for something. Luckily, they determined they needed to fight for one another. Being witness to all the layers peeling back, vulnerabilities exposed, pasts laid bare - it was a wonder these two were as well-adjusted as they were. It also made the dance between them all the more special.

I've mentioned before (just a time or two! ;) that one of the things that makes KA so amazing is her cast of characters. This series revolves around three little mountain towns and the people that inhabit them. It's always a treat to spend time with them, see what they're up to...they my people.

One final thing - I adore that KA used jagged to describe Ham's voice. It'd never used the word in this context but it was perfect. As was Ham and Zara's story. Now always pretty but perfect...for them.

Review ~ Filthy Rich ~ Raine Miller

Filthy Rich by Raine Miller
Blackstone Dynasty #1
Release Date: November 15, 2016
Genre: Adult, Contemporary Romance
Source: I received a complimentary copy from the publisher via Netgalley
Rating: 3 Bookworms
Challenges: #2016NewRelease, #COYER
Goodreads ~ Amazon

Synopsis
Billionaire Caleb Blackstone lives in the glamorous world of wealth and success, with every material luxury. But the moment he sees Brooke Casterly, none of that matters. Caleb is filled with a raw, undeniable need that he can't ignore...for a girl who is so completely different from everything and everyone he's ever known.

Only Brooke isn't looking for love. She knows all too well just how much damage the wrong guy can do. Still, what same, broke British girl can resist the charms of an incredibly sexy, chivalrous billionaire? What starts as flirtation quickly turns into all-consuming passion. Nothing could have prepared her for the searing heat of Caleb's touch--or just how much she craves him.

Their whirlwind romance is the stuff of high-society fantasy--but for every moment of pleasure, there is a cost. Past mistakes and tragedy shadow them both...and falling for him might be the kind of trouble she can't afford.

Having adored the Blackstone Affair series, I was quick to request Filthy Rich when I saw it offered on Netgalley. While I liked the story overall, it didn't pack quite the punch I was expecting.

What Worked:

• Caleb Blackstone. He was self-assured and handsome, so I loved his becoming tongue-tied when first meeting Brooke.
• Brooke Casterly. She was, for the most part, feisty, lovely, a loyal friend and granddaughter.
• Big Cast. I quite enjoyed meeting the characters I assume will inhabit the series and I'm eager for more of Caleb's siblings.
• The Mystery. There was a lot of the plot that was predictable but there was this one thing...I didn't see it coming.

What Could Have Worked Better:

• The plot. As I said, there was quite a bit that was predictable. There was also an insta-love element and although they built on the relationship, it all happened rather quickly.
• Brooke's past. I suppose this falls into the plot category but I just felt her past could have had a bigger impact. I didn't really feel, under the circumstances, that it made the difference it was meant to.

Overall, I liked Caleb and Brooke's story. There were things that could have made the story more powerful if they'd been executed differently and it was disappointing to be left wanting when Miller is a favorite author of mine. But I liked it enough to continue the series.

My TBR List ~ January ~ Polling is Open!

My To-Be Read List is a meme hosted by Michelle @Because Reading. I think it's a fabulous idea because it gets y'all in the game and it helps me knock off some of the many, many books on my TBR list. You're more than welcome to join in the fun! I've included the basic rules below but you can click on the graphic above to hop over to Michelle's site where you can find all the details. 

Here's how it works:
On the first Saturday of each month, I will make a post with three books from my TBR List (these books can be already on your ereader or bookshelf OR books you might want to purchase) and add your link on the linky that will be provided on Michelle's post. Y'ALL will help me choose which book I will read next. The following Saturday, I will announce which book won. Then the last Saturday of the month, I'll post my review.

Fun, right?!?

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It's been awhile, yeah? One of my Bookish Resolutions is catching up on series - I'm behind in 148 series! - so this month I'm having y'all decide which series I'm going to work at catching up on! :D

Your Choices Are:

Reckless
Thoughtless #3

Synopsis
Can love survive when life gets Reckless?

When the band hits it big, Kiera and Kellan must ask themselves: Can their love for each other survive the constant pressures of superstardom? The friendships they've formed, the new family they've found, and the history they've forged will all play a part in helping them navigate the turbulent waters of the band's exploding popularity. A greedy executive hell-bent on success, a declining pop star looking for an edge, and a media circus that twists lies into truths are just some of the obstacles the lovers will have to overcome if they are going to remain together. Fame comes with a price-but will it cost Kiera and Kellan everything?



Rampant
Condemned #2

Synopsis
Life is twisted. Cruel. After being ripped from the safe haven of Rafe's arms, my new kidnapper is waging a sick game. Unable to make my boy do his bidding, he's resorting to psychological warfare. He'll bend my mind until I break, and when I do, that just might be my saving grace.

I'll forge through hell to get back to Rafe, body and spirit broken and bleeding, but I'm unprepared for what I find. He's done what I can't: he's erased eight years of pain and betrayal. I don't know how to bring him back to me, because brining him back means ripping him to shreds all over again.




The Evolution of Mara Dyer
Mara Dyer #2

Synopsis
The truth about Mara Dyer's dangerous and mysterious abilities continues to unravel in the New York Times bestselling sequel to the thrilling The Unbecoming of Mara Dyer. Mara Dyer once believed she could run from her past. She can't. She used to think her problems were all in her head. They aren't. She couldn't imagine that after everything she's been through, the boy she loves would still be keeping secrets. She's wrong. In this gripping sequel to The Unbecoming of Mara Dyer, the truth evolves and choices prove deadly. What will become of Mara Dyer next?



Okay, now vote! And thanks! :D


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#COYER Review ~ Alex ~ Sawyer Bennett

Alex by Sawyer Bennett
Cold Fury Hockey #1
Release Date: October 14, 2014
Genre: Adult, Contemporary Romance
Source: Purchased on Kindle
Rating: 4.5 Bookworms
Challenges: #COYER, #ShelfLove
Goodreads ~ Amazon

Synopsis
Hockey star Alexander Crossman has a reputation as a cold-hearted player on and off the rink. Pushed into the sport by an alcoholic father, Alex isn't afraid to give fans the proverbial middle finger, relishing his role as the MVP they love to hate. Management, however, isn't so amused. Now Alex has a choice: fix his public image through community service or ride the bench. But Alex refuses to be molded into the Carolina Cold Fury poster boy...not even by a tempting redhead with killer curves.

As a social worker, Sutton Price is accustomed to difficult people--like Alex, who's been assigned to help her create a drug-abuse awareness program for at-rish youth as part of the team's effort to clean up his image. What she doesn't expect is the arrogant smirk from his perfect lips to stir her most heated fantasies. But Sutton isn't one to cross professional boundaries--and besides, Alex doesn't do relationships...or does he? The more she sees behind Alex's bad-boy facade, the more Sutton craves the man she uncovers.

My first Sawyer Bennett read was in January of last year. I started with Off Sides and I've jumped around to different series - Legal Affairs, Sugar Bowl... I wanted something lights so I chose Alex because, HOCKEY. Right? No, I chose wrong for light BUT I *did* get a fabulous story with characters I came to adore. I can't wait to move further in the series. Alex and the other SBennett reads I've subsequently enjoyed this year after Off Sides have all proven what I thought about her writing when I reviewed Off Sides... it's gotten better and better. :)

Alex is a hockey player for Carolina's Cold Fury. A hockey player who hates the game. He's known as the MVP - Most Valuable Prick - but although he may be a jerk, he's excellent on the ice. His childhood - specifically his dad - is the reason for his talent for and hatred of the game. Cold Fury management has had enough of his attitude though and is mandating changes. One of those changes is to work with the county in developing a program for at-risk youth. Enter Sutton.

Sutton is a counselor at a drug-crisis center and her focus is at-risk youth. She has a personal investment in her chosen profession and she's determined and tenacious when it comes to helping her clients. Meeting Alex rather up-ends her world.

These two together were magic. They understood each other on a level no one else ever had - especially Alex. And even though he had a hard time accepting his worthiness of her and her love, he got there. Watching as their feelings grew and the changes brought about in Alex for having someone care about him for the first time he can remember was awe-inspiring.

Despite the story not being "light" there were moments of levity - usually courtesy of Garrett. Alex's teammate and first friend, was a hoot! He always seemed to know what to say to Alex - and it was typically snarky and involved cursing. ;)

I'm eager to continue the Cold Fury series but it may have to remain on hold for awhile if I don't already have the next one - and I don't think I do. But I bet I can find more SBennett on my ereaders...and that's an exciting prospect!

That's What HE Said #72 ~ Thirsty Thursday & Hungry Hearts #54

That's What He Said is a weekly meme hosted by the lovely ladies @Chapter Break. Here's the deal: every Thursday, post a line from your book boyfriend to his heroine. Keep in mind, these are direct quotes from dialog in the books. The quote doesn't have to be romantic - just something our hunky hero said to his lucky lady. Be sure to link up over at Chapter Break as well.

My pick this week for That's What He Said is from:

Alex by Sawyer Bennett

***

"You're a force, Sutton. I felt it from the moment I laid eyes on you when I walked into the crisis center. You just radiate this--I don't know what to call it--but it's like a confidence I've never seen before. You love life. It's a little intimidating, but it attracts me all the same."

...

"Because you turned your life around. You had a shitty start and yet you conquered your past. You used it to give you strength and resilience, and you in turn give others strength and resilience. You make me look at things differently, and apparently I've found some joy for things that I thought were long dead and buried for me."

*~*~*~*~*~*

"But let's get some dessert first, then I'll tell you all about it."
"No, thanks," she says just before wiping her mouth and then putting her napkin on her plate.
"No, thanks?" I say with an eyebrow cocked at her. "This is Cafe Lina. They make your favorite dessert--chocolate ten-layer cake."
"I know but you're always plying me with chocolate. I'm going to look like a hippo if you don't stop."
An image comes to my mind of Sutton pregnant, her tummy round and her walk bordering on a waddle. It's something I've been thinking about a lot lately, and I hope she wants more than one kid. But no time to think of that now. I have to get Sutton back on track with my plans today.
"Baby," I say as I lean in close to her ear, my voice dropping low so the waitress can't hear me. "One slice of your favorite dessert in the world isn't going to kill you. Besides, I"ll help you work it off tonight. You can be on top." 

Brandee's Bookish Babble #28 ~ Cliffhangers & Ratings

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. :) 

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I've noticed something recently and wondered what y'all might think about it... that would be a startling number of 1-Star reviews being left for books because they have cliffhangers. Now, I know some readers have very strong feelings when it comes to cliffies, but... Would you really rate a perfectly well-written book a 1-Star simply because the author left you hanging at the end? I've been comments like, "just another ploy to get more money" and "not a complete book." Um, I kinda think a 200-300 page book is complete. And a 200-300 page book for $2.99 or less? That's a bargain! There may just be more to the story. And a lot of the time, that's not something I'm going to complain about.

Okay so, I'm in the camp that doesn't mind a cliffhanger. But again, I'd not give a low rating for one - or for something that I have a personal bias against. My low ratings are about substance and I try to give constructive criticism in my reviews if there's something I don't like about a book. That's just me though...

What about y'all? How do y'all feel about it?

New Release Review ~ The Barefoot Summer ~ Carolyn Brown

The Barefoot Summer by Carolyn Brown
Release Date: January 3, 2017
Genre: Adult, Contemporary Romance
Source: I received a complimentary copy from the publisher via Netgalley
Rating: 3 Bookworms
Challenges: #2017NewRelease, #COYER
Goodreads ~ Amazon

Synopsis
Leaving one widow behind is unfortunate. Leaving three widows behind is just plain despicable. Oil heiress Kate Steele knew her not-so-dearly departed husband was a con man, but she's shocked that Conrad racked up two more wives without divorcing her first. The only remnant of their miserable marriage she plans to keep is their lakeside cabin in Bootleg, Texas. Unfortunately, she's not the only woman with that idea.

Fiery, strong-willed Jamie wishes Conrad were still alive--so she could kill the scoundrel herself. But for their daughter's sake, she needs that property. As does Amanda--twenty-eight, pregnant, and still weeping over the loss of her true love. On a broiling July day, all three arrive in Bootleg...with a dogged detective right behind who's convinced that at least one of them conspired to commit murder. One momentous summer filled with revelations, quirky neighbors, and barefoot evenings on the porch offers three women the chance to make the journey from enemies to friends, and claim a bright, new beginning.

I've read Carolyn Brown before so when I saw her name attached to this title, I didn't hesitate to request it. The Barefoot Summer wasn't exactly what I was expecting but it was a pretty good read.

The premise is what originally drew my attention. Three women realizing they were all married to the same man? And that realization coming at his funeral?? Yeah. And then all three showing up at a cabin they'd shared with said man, ultimately deciding to share it for the summer? Well, it kinda sounded like a fun read. However, the story ended up being a bit deeper - murder investigation notwithstanding - and if the execution had been a tad tighter, it'd have been excellent. As it stands, it was pleasant.

The story overall is about these three women doing some soul searching. Do our decisions determine the direction of their lives? Karma? Fate? God? What makes a family? These are questions they ask themselves and each other as they spend the summer together. It's set in small-town Texas, where everyone knows everyone else's business - and I loved that element. The three wives Conrad left, Kate the oil heiress and determined businesswoman, Jamie the school teacher who is also mother to adorable Gracie, and Amanda the pregnant thrift store owner and youngest of the three, are all so different. And yet there are qualities they share, obviously, as they all married the same man. What they learn about themselves and each other over the course of the summer was a delight to be witness to.

My issue with the story is mostly that everything happened rather quickly and I didn't get to develop a deep connection with the characters. I liked them all well enough but the connection could have been stronger. And there was one element where my suspension of disbelief was challenged. Not sure that element was at all realistic.

At any rate, it was a sweet read. It had so much potential and could have been outstanding if only...

Sunday Post #18 ~ Ringing in the New Year!

As y'all probably all know, the Sunday Post is hosted by Kimba @Caffeinated Book Reviewer. It's a chance to share my news from the week whether it be book, blog, or just life news. 

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Hello, 2017! 

Here's wishing y'all good health, prosperity, love, laughter, 

and LOTS of great reads!!

I've been enjoying having all my ducklings under the same roof. Santa brought puzzles for their stockings and y'all, they spent SIX hours working on them! We've spent a lot of time hanging out, eating, watching movies, reading...just relaxing and being together. And it's been great! I hope y'all have been enjoying your holidays! 

I've read 3 reads for COYER Blackout so far - Filthy Rich by Raine Miller, The Barefoot Summer by Carolyn Brown, and Alex by Sawyer Bennett. I'm currently reading The Nightingale by Kristin Hannah, for book club. In my ears is Winter Moon by Dannika Dark. It's taking me awhile since I don't have any alone time right now!! :D 

Tell me about y'all's holidays. Was Santa good to you? 

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Besides getting TWO gift cards for Barnes & Noble, James gave me two books (first two) and my Mom gave me two books (last two).



My Secret Santas spoiled me good! I got the following from each of them. 


My blogger wife, Lexxie Lin, spoiled me some more with the following goodies! Thanks, wifey! <3 

And I received 13 books from Tantor in December! Thirteen!! I have lots of listening on tap!

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Here's a wrap up of my year-long challenges.

Challenge Updates

2016 by the numbers:

#ShelfLove - 71

Blogger Shame - 11 

New Release - 59

Goodreads - 153

#2016HW - 8 (I failed this challenge!)

2017 Challenges

Happy New Year!!