Lullaby by:Amanda Hocking

Publication Date: 

April 2013

Overview: 

What if you could have beauty, magical power and immortality—but they came at a terrible price?

Gemma Fisher has fallen under an ancient curse—and inherited all the strange new powers that came along with it.  Now she’s more beautiful and powerful than ever, but she’s also plagued by unspeakable hungers…and she’s not sure how much longer she can resist.  A danger to everyone she loves, she has no choice but to leave her old life behind and enter a strange new world filled with breathtaking beauty…and dark secrets.

Harper won’t give up on finding her sister Gemma, vowing to bring her home no matter what the cost.  The search draws her closer to too-gorgeous-for-his-own-good Daniel, and tests her fiercely-guarded independence like never before.  She’s always been the strong one who everyone else depends on…can she let herself depend on Daniel?

As Gemma and Harper plunge deeper into a magical world they barely understand, it becomes painfully clear that Gemma’s old life may be lost forever…unless her friends can save her.

My thoughts:

Harper, Gemma's sister, doesn't still for long in this one. Her sister is M.I.A. and she doesn't want her in danger. So she gets going and tries to find her. It takes a village of course. 

Daniel finds a news clipping that helps and Alex is on the net. So between the books in the library, internet and newspaper they figure out that the girls are Sirens, which are mermaids. Together with Alex and Daniel, Gemma sets off to find her sister and bring her home. 

Meanwhile Gemma is facing a crisis of her own! Her hair is falling out, she has nightmare, night and day sweats and desires for Sawyer that are out of this world. But she love Alex and that is what is keeping her sane. Until she runs out for a bit, where she discovers a man....what she does to him is gross. And I'm not the only one freaking out! She freaks out and comes home covered in blood.

After everything Gemma thinks she is safe from the Surens, but boy was she wrong!

My rating:

 5 stars

Up Next: 

Tidal

Wake by: Amanda Hocking

Publication Date:

July 2013

Overview: 

Gorgeous. Fearless. Dangerous. They're the kind of girls you envy; the kind of girls you want to hate. Strangers in town for the summer, Penn, Lexi and Thea have caught everyone's attention—but it’s Gemma who’s attracted theirs.  She’s the one they've chosen to be part of their group.

Gemma seems to have it all—she’s carefree, pretty, and falling in love with Alex, the boy next door.  He’s always been just a friend, but this summer they've taken their relationship to the next level, and now there’s no going back.  Then one night, Gemma’s ordinary life changes forever.  She’s taking a late night swim under the stars when she finds Penn, Lexi and Thea partying on the cove.  They invite her to join them, and the next morning she wakes up on the beach feeling groggy and sick, knowing something is different.

Suddenly Gemma is stronger, faster, and more beautiful than ever. But her new powers come with a terrifying price.  And as she uncovers the truth, she’s is forced to choose between staying with those she loves—or entering a new world brimming with dark hungers and unimaginable secrets.

My thoughts:

Mythology the flavor of the day! Gemma the good little girl, whose goes to school, practice and comes home. But at night all bets are off, she goes to the sea to swim. Now I'm telling you I wouldn't be caught dead or alive swimming in the sea a t night. You can't see anything, so why out yourself in danger. 

She loves it. Her family lets her have her way because she is responsible. But one night she isn't so careful and decides to go with the creepy pretty girls from town. They party in a cave, but that party isn't all it seems to be. I have never been one to succumb to peer pressure so I don't understand why she didn't stand her ground. But they got her under some sort of spell.

Turns out she ends up turning into something more, a siren! Her family doesn't understand her change in appearance or attitude! And truth be told she doesn't wither. This is very creative writing!

My rating: 

5 stars

Up Next:

 Lullaby

COVER REVEAL!

 

For fans of Braedyn Murphy, the wait is almost over. 

 “Sacrifice,” the third book in the Daughters of Lilith series, will be released on January 31, 2014.

"Sacrifice" (Daughters of Lilith: Book 3)

Just when Braedyn Murphy thought she understood the danger descending on Puerto Escondido, a new threat arrives. A cult devoted to Lilith has taken up residence in the little town, and when Cassie gets tangled up its intrigue, Braedyn realizes she might have to chose between protecting her friends and stopping Lilith from reclaiming this earth. With her duties to the Guard wearing on her, Braedyn turns to Lucas for solace. Together they wonder if now is the time to claim their one night together—knowing that one night is all they may ever have. Darker forces have their own plans for Braedyn and the Guard. Braedyn knew this fight could be brutal—but how much can one girl be asked to sacrifice in order to save the world?

 Check out the previous books in the series: 

 Praise for "Thrall" (Daughters of Lilith: Book 1) 

"Before you even start this review, put down anything you are doing and go read Thrall. It's AMAZING! BREATHTAKING! Engaging and smart, Thrall leaves you speechless!" - Savannah, Books With Bite

"The writing style is so smooth, yet gripping. Add some good characters, well-paced story and you have something that I like. No, not like. Love... No surprise that “Thrall” gets full five stars and the highest recommendations I can give." - Linda, The Fantasy Librarian

 "How do I even begin to put all the crazy, gushy, ramblings in my brain about this book onto paper?!? Where to even begin?....This book is a MUST read!" - Hooked In A Book review on Amazon

  Praise for “Incubus” (Daughters of Lilith: Book 2)

"If you like gutsy fantasy of the urban variety this should definitely be on your 'must read' list. Don't let the YA label put you off either, like all the best YA fiction, this can be enjoyed by adults as well. I give it an unreserved 5 stars." - Tahlia, Awesome Indies, http://awesomeindies.net/2013/10/01/hard-book-put-review-incubus-jennifer-quintenz/

"This is one of those books that I have been looking forward to since June of last year... I loved this book and I'm so happy I finally got to read it. I recommend the entire series for the fully developed characters, the impressive mythology, and the fight scenes. I am dreading waiting for the next book." - David, David-Reviews.com

 "Great reading. LOVE IT. Jennifer Quintenz is a special writer who can be very riveting... Spent several sleepless nights in a crazy rush to see how it ends. Can't wait for the next books." - Terri, review on Amazon About the author: Jennifer Quintenz is an award-winning film and television writer, author, and graphic novelist. She has written for Twentieth Television, Intrepid Pictures, and Archaia Studios Press. She lives in Los Angeles with her husband and son.

  JenniferQuintenz.com 

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Dreams at Dusk by: Scott Roloff

Publication Date: 

October 2013

Overview: 

Jake Nelson, a successful lawyer with a beautiful wife, had the perfect life–until he defended a young Hispanic boy accused of splaying his brother open with a kitchen knife. After the trial, Jake’s world unravels. Are these twists of fate merely random circumstances, or events carefully stitched together, and if so, by whom–and why?

A legal thriller that propels you to an ending that you’ll never forget!

My thoughts:

I have to say it was hard to read this. I wasn't sure whose story I should be more invested in the lawyer, Jake or the police detective, Marie.
It tells us of Jake work and his coworker having many woman to be with. It also talks about Jake's wife having an affair with Kyle, that said coworker. Jake starts acting out of turn and is trying to get his coworker into trouble in order to bring about revenge for what has happened with his wife. In truth I think this guy needs help. Really he is spiraling out of control. I would want revenge but I think there are better way to go about it. 
I hope the author has future success but I would suggest not trying to hard with your words. It felt like there was a Thesaurus nearby. Sometimes it OK to repeat words instead if finding different terms. 

My rating: 

2 stars

Sacrifice by: Cayla Kluver

Publication Date:

December 2012

Overview: 

This is not the time for the fight to end. Now is when the fight will begin. This is the time to regain what has been lost.

Alera
Queen of a fallen kingdom, secretly in love with the enemy.

Shaselle
Daughter of a murdered father, rebel with a cause.

One lives behind the former Hytanican palace walls and walks the razor's edge to keep the fragile peace in her beloved homeland. The other slips through the war-torn streets, seeking retribution for her family's tragedy, following whispers of insurgency.

Both face choices that will separate them from those they cannot help but love. As their stories intertwine, a conspiracy ignites that may end in slavery or death—or lead to freedom anew, if only each can face what must be sacrificed.

My thoughts:

I have to tell you that I was angered by this one. I wanted more of an ending. Tell me how they fared in the future. Give me something, anything but a dinner. THE END!

After investing a week of my life into this trilogy, I really was hoping for that happy ever after ending. Something to tell me they had a beautiful future and now I fell washed and put away wet! I love Alera and Narian and am so glad things have settled down in the beginning even if it wasn't as we all wanted, it was something better then nothing. And the new character Rava, I would have probably stabbed with something. 

Getting to walk in Shaselle'e shoes for part of this story was really a neat adventure. This girl was lost and alone, really. But found that source of comfort and lost it again. The end of her story will give you a glimpse of forever.

The author does have a great tale on her hands. I really did love this, only just not the end!

My rating: 

5 stars

Author Page

New Author Page post. Please check out his months author!

*Remember if you have a request now is the time to get it in! I will take request until the 30th of January then I will chose one, if no request come in I will again pick one of my faves!

Allegiance by: Cayla Kluver

Publication Date: 

February 2012

Overview: 

He couldn't help his past any more than he could help the way those intense, deep blue eyes pierced me and held me captive.

An eighteen-year-old queen in love with the enemy as their countries pass the point of no return…

Bound to a man she cannot love, Queen Alera of Hytanica must forget Narian, the young man who holds her heart. For Narian is destined to conquer Hytanica at the behest of his master, the powerful magic-user known as the Overlord. Alera doesn't truly believe Narian will fight against Hytanica—until Cokyrian troops attack with Narian commanding the charge.

Faced with the greatest betrayal a heart can know, Alera must set aside personal feelings and lead her kingdom through its darkest time. And when all hope, will and courage seem lost, she must find strength and remember that even the blackest night must have a dawn….

My thoughts:

I have to say this is the most heartbreaking book. Just the torment and terror the characters face in most of the book, it would tear me apart. I love Alera, she is so strongly written and committed to the cause. She gave her life up to make her sister happen and I can say from experience with my siblings, that never happens. 

This book starts where the other leaves off so you never feel lost or like something isn't right. Alera is married now and must make a future with her king. But she keeps him at bay. I must say he is a strong man, because not to many would be faithful and patient as long as he was. War erupts over the kingdom, many are killed or lost. 

One is taken, but finally returned. One is tortured painfully so, but recovers. And love finds itself again. I am currently reading the final installment and I can say it's rough too. 

My rating: 

5 stars

Up Next: 

Sacrifice

Persephone by: Kaitlin Bevis

Publication Date:

July 2012

Overview: 

There are worse things than death, worse people too.

The "talk" was bad enough, but how many teens get told that they're a goddess? When her mom tells her, Persephone is sure her mother has lost her mind. It isn't until Boreas, the god of winter, tries to abduct her that she realizes her mother was telling the truth. Hades rescues her, and in order to safely bring Persephone to the Underworld he marks her as his bride. But Boreas will stop at nothing to get Persephone. Despite her growing feelings for Hades, Persephone wants to return to the living realm. Persephone must find a way to defeat Boreas and reclaim her life.

My thoughts: 

This is a modern day spin on Greek mythology, which is something of late that I have enjoyed. Since reading Starcrossed by: Josephine Angelini, I craved more. This author did not let me down. Strong facts and characters make this book worth reading. Another surprise is that the main character doesn't even realize her fate or powers. I glad things got started quickly with no back story. Most of the time this kills me but I found in this case I was ready for a jump start and was not let down. 
Having Hades seemingly good in this is another thing that hasn't really been done before. And you will not believe the story with these two! The character Persephone is a teenager who is a bit quick to jump into things, not unlike most teenagers, but she really knows how to push some buttons. I think this is one of the best Mythology books I have gotten my hands on yet! 
I so want to read more by this author!!!!

My rating:

5 stars

Tex And The Gangs Of Suburbia by: Stuart R. West

Publication Date: 

July 2013

Overview: 

Tex McKenna’s junior year of high school is just as bad as his sophomore year. Maybe worse. Olivia’s dumped him. He's caught up between two warring gangs and gone “undercover” with the Modern Gangstas to unmask a murderer. All this poor Witch Boy and supernatural trouble magnet wants to do is end the school year alive. And maybe find out who the mysterious punker girl is and how she knows all his secrets.

My thoughts:

This boy sure has a lot of drama. New year, new problems. I would never expect there to be gangs in Kansas, let's face it. Normally I would picture something from the Sound of Music's scenery, not something from the Gangs of New York! 
But his is is still about drama and bullying. Let's face it the characters are what makes it seem real. I feel like I am reliving my high school days almost. The wittiness the author brings is most exciting. Another wonderful job!  

My rating:

 4 stars

Tex, The Witch Boy by: Stuart R. West

Publication Date: 

January 2013

Overview: 

Being in high school sucks. Just ask Richard “Tex” McKenna, a Kansas sophomore. Dealing with bullying, burgeoning love,  the loss of parents, and dodge ball is bad enough. To top it off, he's just found out he's a witch!  Oh, and fellow students are being murdered.  The suspicious eyes of local law enforcement are looking right at Tex and his loyal group of friends.  And so is the killer. Will Tex's new-found skills prove helpful? Or cause even more problems?

My thoughts: 

I have to say I never thought of a witch as a boy. I always assumed they are warlocks or wizards, but this ia a new take on things and quite enjoyable. This poor fella has to deal with not only the death of his mother but also bullies. And let's face it bullies are relentless especially in the darkest hour. 
Although their is darkness in this book ,it also has some witty moments of candor and more. I think that Tex and his friends have been dealt an ugly hand. I had trouble figuring out who did it? I thought it was someone totally different then it was, which was a great puzzle to figure out. 
Well written with today's humor! 

My rating:

4 stars

Up Next: 

Tex And The Gangs Of Suburbia

Legacy by: Cayla Kluver

Publication Date: 

June 2011

Overview: 

A CROWN PRINCESS

A SCANDALOUS SECRET CRUSH

A KINGDOM ON THE BRINK OF DISASTER

In her seventeenth year, Princess Alera of Hytanica faces one duty: to marry the man who will be king. But her father’s choice of suitor fills her with despair.

When the palace guard captures an intruder—a boy her age with steel-blue eyes, hailing from her kingdom’s greatest enemy — Alera is alarmed...and intrigued. But she could not have guessed that their clandestine meetings would unveil the dark legacy shadowing both their lands.

In this mystical world of court conspiracies and blood magic, loyalties will be tested. Courage won’t be enough. And as the battle begins for everything Alera holds dear, love may be the downfall of a kingdom.

My thoughts:

When I first started this book I was bored and actually had trouble getting into it. I put it down for several months and decided to make my way through it again. The over view makes you want to enjoy it and so I gave it the chance it deserves. And lets face it I made it through in flying style. The characters are strong and well written. The story line is fun and romantic, as well as a little action in there. 

Alera must be married, her father is tried of being king and he want s to let someone one new reign. In doing this it's with either Alera or her baby sister that has to marry and rule. I would let my sister do it, but Alera knows her sister is in love with another. And although she is as well she decides to put her sisters feelings above her own and marries a man she doesn't desire. 

Before she can marry him, she falls so completely for another that she is breaking rules and breaking hearts in order to be with the enemy. Now I myself would not yet consider him an enemy, he is from their country and he wants to stay but lived so long and trained in another that it is hard to see where his true loyalty lies. 

He leaves and her fate is set. 

My rating: 

4 stars

Up next:

 Allegiance

The Fiery Heart by: RIchelle Mead

Publication Date: 

November 2013

Overview: 

Sydney Sage is an Alchemist, one of a group of humans who dabble in magic and serve to bridge the worlds of humans and vampires. They protect vampire secrets—and human lives.

In The Indigo Spell, Sydney was torn between the Alchemist way of life and what her heart and gut were telling her to do. And in one breathtaking moment that Richelle Mead fans will never forget, she made a decision that shocked even her. . . .

But the struggle isn't over for Sydney. As she navigates the aftermath of her life-changing decision, she still finds herself pulled in too many directions at once. Her sister Zoe has arrived, and while Sydney longs to grow closer to her, there's still so much she must keep secret. Working with Marcus has changed the way she views the Alchemists, and Sydney must tread a careful path as she harnesses her profound magical ability to undermine the way of life she was raised to defend. Consumed by passion and vengeance, Sydney struggles to keep her secret life under wraps as the threat of exposure—and re-education—looms larger than ever.

My thoughts: 

I was so ready for this book because I wanted to know what wold happen with Sydney and Adrian. I was glad of course that they were still together, and so in love. The secrets they must keep because of Zoe irritates me, I think I would beat my sister into the real world. Sydney's life is anything but easy. She must keep the true about vampire a secret from humans at the same time she is surrounded by proof they are real. She isn't suppose to show affection or even enjoy spending time with them, but she is friends with them and loves Adrian. 

Through the course of this book they must find a sure for the Alchemist tattoo. Either by charming stones or ink they have to find a way to set them free. Sydney needs a way out, but things don't go according to plan and poop hits they fan.  I think even I would have trouble copping but Sydney and Adrian find a way to be together and things work out so well...surprises!!!! 

But then things get worse and Sydney's dad gets involved. By the end I was crying with anger and frustration. The characters in this series are so string and well written I think the author is brilliant!

My rating: 

5 stars

Up Next: 

Silver Shadows

Anyone But You by: Kim Askew & Amy Helms

Publication Date: 

January 2014

Overview:

 These violent delights have violent ends...

Gigi Caputo is fed up. A vicious act of vandalism has dealt another blow to her family's proud pizza heritage, and the Montes--owners of a rival Italian restaurant--are clearly to blame. The hostility goes far beyond bragging rights for best pizza in Chicago. The Montes have been bent on destroying Cap's for four generations. Even if it means putting herself in harm's way, Gigi's determined to get to the bottom of the feud. Instead, in a secret encounter with Roman Monte, the very boy whose relatives have brought her family such grief, she finds both danger and love at first sight. If the daughter and son of these two warring families fall for each other, can it be anything but a recipe for disaster? Slowly, Gigi and Roman learn that their story is fatefully linked to the summer of 1933, when two twelve-year-olds, Benny and Nick, hop the turnstile at the Chicago World's Fair. The most stunning wonder of the fair is Stella, who innocently causes a lasting rift between the two boyhood. Wending its way through past and present day, this modern take on Shakespeare's Romeo and Juliet is bittersweet, funny, and intensely exciting. It's classic romance--a tale of hate and the only force that can ever defeat it: love.

My thoughts: 

I have to be honest, I have never been one for retellings! I think the originals are so unique that we shouldn't redo anything. But I understand the wants and needs of the public to rehash things and make them better or switch them up and make it more current. So I'm going with it!

Romeo and Juliet has to be one of my favorite "old school" stories. I can cry with the best of them when I read it and so I was very interested in seeing where this book would lead me! Now the story jumps from modern times, back to the past and it makes me crazy, as my fans know, I am not ever a fan of jumping around. It's a slow read and you really need to know your Romeo and Juliet to know this book. 

I love the rapidness of the romance. I think that is so much like Romeo and Juliet that I just love the feel of true love and all that jazz! The authors did such a great job of keeping the romance real and current. Gigi and Roman are so well written characters that you want to help them and root for them til the end of things. This reminds me of, "Pizza my Heart" movie which surrounds the story line  with a pizza shop and two love birds. 

I would really love to read more Twisted-Lit after reading this. 

My rating: 

4 stars

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Please check out the poll on the right hand side! It could mean a change to what you see here! I want my fans to be completely happy! 

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