Friday, December 27, 2013

ATTENTION READERS: Reviews? Do you write them? Read them?

Hi guys! I'm just curious over here. When you read a book how likely are you to write a review on amazon or goodreads? I don't mean a full on review like I do on my blog but just share your thoughts? Do reviews influence your decision to buy a particular book? I love to read reviews especially when I'm not sure what the book is about.

Recently I have learned how important reviews are. By chatting with new authors I have realized that we have some power. I think if we all went and reviewed a book by J.R. Ward it would not really matter. She is already super popular and everyone loves the Brotherhood. I'm sure she would still appreciate it though. :) 
I mean, independent authors, new authors, authors who are not big household names yet. The ones that you can interact with on Facebook or other social media and actually respond to your messages. 

I started my blog to keep track of the books I read and to be my "notebook." For as long as I can remember I have written journals and filled them with thoughts, things to research and things I didn't want to forget. I'd like to think my blog has turned into something a little more than that. If I can help someone else select a book, try a new series or genre out or just show an awesome book some love, I will. 

If you don't already review your purchases on amazon or goodreads I would encourage you to do so. Especially if you are a reading machine-like so many of my friends are! It doesn't have to be a long review. Just honest and mindful of others. Try not to give anything away or review something too harshly if you didn't like something. Goodreads is neat because it keeps count of each book you read. 

Happy Reading and Reviewing!

Tuesday, December 24, 2013

Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays!

It is so easy to get caught up in the commercial aspect of Christmas. The true meaning is often forgotten. During this time of year it is a time to enjoy your family, embrace family traditions-or start new ones, and to show appreciation to those around you for all they do. For me, my family's Christmas tradition was to watch movies while laying in the living room on a big comfy blanket eating yummy food waiting for midnight to open our gifts. Of course, we'd always fall asleep somewhere between the 11pm hour and wake up after midnight. We'd open presents then go back to bed. Rey's family has a different tradition. They celebrate with music, food and with family. They have a much bigger family then I do. It was always just me, my mom and sister and sometimes our grandma. One year, we took a road trip to surprise Rey's sister in Florida. It was the first time I had spent Christmas away from my family. I did not expect to miss my mom, sis and Christmas eve tradition so much. Each time I would speak to them on the phone I would start crying. Each time I was around Rey's family, watching their traditions and being a part of it, I started crying. Rey's family is great with making the moments count. They are always grateful for your presence and always share that. I think that was the Christmas I cried the most. It was not about the gifts but the people and love around you. Although I was not with my mom and sister I still felt loved and realized how much I loved my family.

Today, it's Christmas Eve. My mother is in Florida with my sister. This is the 2nd Christmas we are apart. I didn't think I would be sad. This morning Rey shows me this link: http://news.wgcu.org/post/latino-christmas-traditions#.Urmj1MZjveg.facebook.  It is Rey's sister describing her reaction to our visit that Christmas. Guess what? It made me cry. That year I cried for my family and this year I cried for his. I promise, I don't enjoy crying all the time. :) If you have a minute, click the link above. She narrates the story. It was amazing to hear her thoughts and made us get the warm and fuzzys all over again. 

Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays to all! Especially all of you great people who check out my blog and fb page and support me in various ways! xoxo

Monday, December 23, 2013

Blog Tour: A Home for Christmas by Ann Vaughn


**Please excuse the double post! I signed up for a blog tour for this book and I got so excited that I posted my review early! But hey, we can never have too much Riley! :)**

Ann Vaughn has quickly become one of my favorite authors-EVER! There's romance, hot service men, Channing Tatum!-just kidding, no Channing Tatum. He has nothing on her alpha men, especially Riley! He just melts your heart! I guess technically I have a thing for service men since my fiancee is a firefighter-maybe Ann should write an awesome story about us! I'm on a roll here, I know! Literally, I just love Riley! This is not just a Christmas story, rest assured. I will be selecting this book for my bookclub when the time comes-and my month isn't December. Just, wow. Loved this. Give yourself a present and check this book out! It is only 99 pennies! How can you resist! This picture of Channing Tatum reminds me of the initial description we get of Riley. OH! And wait until you read the part about Jenna's hot chocolate! It totally reminds me of Ned Flander's in The Simpson's Movie! :) 











Here are some of my favorite quotes-this was hard because the whole book is my favorite quote!!!!!



  • “One guy ran down three teenagers?” Jenna asked, surprised. “From what I understand, this guy is a former Navy SEAL…and he’s recently out, so he’s still in prime shape..."  (I like where this is going hehehhe)
  • “Well, at least give us your address,” the first lady insisted, “I’d like to bring you a casserole for your troubles.” (smart woman!)
  • He winked at her. “I got connections, sweetheart. You want it?” (hehehe too bad he was talking about playstation ahh!)
  • “Would you? My ladder isn’t quite tall enough.” (hhehhehhheheh)
  • "Well, if it isn't Malibu Ken," Colt Harris' amused voice answered.
  • He stopped her by pulling her to him and kissing the ever-living daylights out of her.
  • “You’d be surprised what I would do for you, Jenna,” he said, surprising himself with the admission. (KILL ME NOW! )
  • “I believe this activity requires a bit more of your, shall we say, arduous participation.”
  • "I'm dreaming tonight, of a place I love, even more than I usually do. And although I know, it's a long road back, I promise you...I'll be Home for Christmas... ahhh!
  • Cam looked up at Riley with a shy smile. "I always get her something that represents an event that took place sometime during the year. I thought she'd like to have you represented on our tree."
  • He looked up from his game. "Uh oh. Full name usage. Serious talk ensues," he said, making Riley chuckle and Jenna roll her eyes.

  • 5 stars-or Christmas ornaments! :) 

    Dear Ann, 



    Thank you for writing such amazing stories! Could you melt my heart any more with Riley? Really. I was in tears in many places throughout this book! My heart was melted butter for 2 days! I can't even think of a flaw with Riley! 

    xoxo, 
    Jasmine

    Saturday, December 21, 2013

    Ashes to Ashes by Karina Halle

    amazon
    I have been waiting for this book FOREVER. What is weird is that as soon it was available I didn't read it. I was busy falling in love with some super sweet book boyfriends like Hutch from Vicki Green or Riley from Ann Vaughn.  A part of me didn't want to read it because I can't come to terms that the series is coming to an end. I love the Experiment in Terror Series by Karina Halle. Ashes to Ashes in #8 in this series. Have I not mentioned how much I love Dex & Perry? You may have noticed I have a banner on my blog that says "Team Derry" hehehhehe. OK, back to business. Dex & Perry are on to another adventure together for their internet show "Experiment in Terror." In the 8 months they have known each other it seems like they have known each other for a lifetime. They have been through it ALL. Now, just when the dust has settled and things seem to be "normal"-well as normal as it can get for them-they are faced with some new hurdles.

    This series is like romance meets the X Files. You just love to hate and hate to love Dex. I'm sure I have said that before. He is just too much and you love every second of it. I'm so sad that this series will end soon. Literally, I have reread this series 3 times! I will be rereading Ashes to Ashes too. I feel like the first time you read the book you have so much anxiety that you just want to know what happens. The second time you read it you can savor every word. This book kind of reminds me a tiny bit of Silent Hill. Particularly the creepy nurses.


      I do have a dream cast for Dex and Perry.


    DEX
    PERRY














    Here are some of my favorite quotes:
    • ...it's such a non-issue that it's become an issue.
    • And an anchor was a hell of a lot sexier than getting a big ass boulder tatted on you.
    • ...I'd had verbal diarrhea of the lovey-dovey kind.
    • ..."But we can handle it. And if we can't, well that's what Jack Daniels is for."
    • "Who's the boss in the bedroom here? Tony Danza?" (LOL!)
    •  "Sometimes I think I'm looking at a ghost but it turns out to be a meth head."
    • "You know you can have pie any time you want," I teased him.
    • "You think you'd be used to fog, coming from jolly fucking England and all," Dex said.
    • "Don't even think about a quickie," I warned him with a sharp shake of my head. "I couldn't come in this place even if you had two dicks." (gasp in feigned horror)
    • "I mean, hello, way to welcome him into your hidey hole so soon." (LMAO)
    • "Perry, there's something that's been weighing on me...promise you won't get mad." My eyes widened defensively. "If you're starting something off like that, I can probably promise I will get mad." (HECK YEAH!!!)
    • I was like the highly sought after call girl of the supernatural.









    Friday, December 20, 2013

    Virtual Encounters by Stephen Olander

    Well, well, well... You stumbled upon Virtual Encounters did you? 

    1. You better one click this bad boy on amazon.
    2. DO NOT read this book (quick read) while you are at work. 
    3. DO NOT google any terminology you may not be familiar with from a place someone else can see.
    Let me start by saying the beginning of my reading craze started with Twilight-which was written by a Mormon woman for teenagers. After that I thought reading Black Dagger Brotherhood and Dark Hunters was spicy. The spicy reading continued and after 2 years of reading religiously Stephen Olander has still managed to show me something new.You will never look at snowballs the same, I promise you. I'm not sure this is a good thing. Young ladies don't really need to have that knowledge in their head. OK, back to Virtual Encounters. This is a fun, easy and quick read. SPICY! It is set in the future. Craig and Veronica are happily married and enjoy sex. To take things to the next level they purchase a holographic machine which allows them to experience what it is like to add another person to their bed without it being "real." Real in the sense that the person is a hologram but the sensation is 100% real. While this is fun for a while, as with all things, it starts to put a strain on their relationship. This is a cautionary tale of the dangers of too many sexual fantasies come to life. No book boyfriends in this one-unless the holographic machine counts... Four stars from me! 

    Thursday, December 19, 2013

    Behind His Eyes-Coming January 14, 2014-Are you ready?



    Are you ready to get inside Tony's mind? Don't forget to follow the rules! If you'd like to order a Tony's Rules TShirt click here for more info. 

    Wednesday, December 18, 2013

    A Home For Christmas by Ann Vaughn

    Ann Vaughn has quickly become one of my favorite authors-EVER! There's romance, hot service men, Channing Tatum!-just kidding, no Channing Tatum. He has nothing on her alpha men, especially Riley! He just melts your heart! I guess technically I have a thing for service men since my fiancee is a firefighter-maybe Ann should write an awesome story about us! I'm on a roll here, I know! Literally, I just love Riley! This is not just a Christmas story, rest assured. I will be selecting this book for my bookclub when the time comes-and my month isn't December. Just, wow. Loved this. Give yourself a present and check this book out! It is only 99 pennies! How can you resist! This picture of Channing Tatum reminds me of the initial description we get of Riley. OH! And wait until you read the part about Jenna's hot chocolate! It totally reminds me of Ned Flander's in The Simpson's Movie! :) 









    Here are some of my favorite quotes-this was hard because the whole book is my favorite quote!!!!!



  • “One guy ran down three teenagers?” Jenna asked, surprised. “From what I understand, this guy is a former Navy SEAL…and he’s recently out, so he’s still in prime shape..."  (I like where this is going hehehhe)
  • “Well, at least give us your address,” the first lady insisted, “I’d like to bring you a casserole for your troubles.” (smart woman!)
  • He winked at her. “I got connections, sweetheart. You want it?” (hehehe too bad he was talking about playstation ahh!)
  • “Would you? My ladder isn’t quite tall enough.” (hhehhehhheheh)
  • "Well, if it isn't Malibu Ken," Colt Harris' amused voice answered.
  • He stopped her by pulling her to him and kissing the ever-living daylights out of her.
  • “You’d be surprised what I would do for you, Jenna,” he said, surprising himself with the admission. (KILL ME NOW! )
  • “I believe this activity requires a bit more of your, shall we say, arduous participation.”
  • "I'm dreaming tonight, of a place I love, even more than I usually do. And although I know, it's a long road back, I promise you...I'll be Home for Christmas... ahhh!
  • Cam looked up at Riley with a shy smile. "I always get her something that represents an event that took place sometime during the year. I thought she'd like to have you represented on our tree."
  • He looked up from his game. "Uh oh. Full name usage. Serious talk ensues," he said, making Riley chuckle and Jenna roll her eyes.

  • 5 stars-or Christmas ornaments! :) 

    Dear Ann, 


    Thank you for writing such amazing stories! Could you melt my heart any more with Riley? Really. I was in tears in many places throughout this book! My heart was melted butter for 2 days! I can't even think of a flaw with Riley! 

    xoxo, 
    Jasmine

    Excerpt- Behind His Eyes-Consequences




    Behind His Eyes- Consequences
    The Symphony - Late May 2010
    (Consequences—Chapter 8)

    “Thank you, Tony,” she replied. “This has been an amazing night. How can I ever thank you?”
    He pulled her close, feeling the pressure of her breasts against his chest. Turning off the riding lights, he smiled a devilish grin. “I have a few ideas.”  
    Claire’s glance darted toward the dark glass partition separating the back from the front of the car.
    Tony laughed. “I promise we’re alone; Eric can’t see or hear us.” He leaned toward her. She instinctively reached for his neck and settled onto the long leather seat. As he hovered mere inches above, he watched her cheeks flush, and his erection came to life. Over the past few months, Claire had learned to respond to Tony’s commands—both verbal and none. There‘d been times when she’d hesitated. It was on those occasions that she earned the punishment she deserved. Turning his tone more serious, he raised a brow and demanded, “Now, show me that you’ve followed my rules. I want to see.” 
    Claire’s immediate response fortified the pride of his accomplishment. She maintained their gaze as her small hand fumbled for the hem of her dress. “I can’t reach—”
    Tony wouldn’t let her finish—he couldn’t. He needed to taste her. Entwining his fingers in her loose ringlets of hair, he tilted her lips upward and heard a small moan before his mouth seized hers. Unable to soften his approach, he took what was his. It wasn’t enough—he wanted more. When his tongue probed, her lips parted allowing him to enter her warmth. Tony savored her sweetness as her arms once again encircled his neck. With his other hand, he reached for the hem of her dress and the cabin filled with her whimpers of anticipation. 
    He slowly lifted the beaded material and teasingly brushed her inner thigh. “Open your legs for me,” he commanded.
    She obeyed and he continued to caress her soft skin. When her breathing labored and he neared his destination, Tony stopped. Releasing her hair, he sat up and gazed down at her blushed cheeks, smudged lipstick, and nearly exposed body. Grinning, he murmured, “You were amazing tonight.”
    Softly, she replied, “Thank you.”
    Leaning back, he reminded her. “But the night isn’t over.” His playful tone vanished. “Now, lift your dress and let me see if you have truly behaved.”
    Slowly reaching for the length of material, Claire kept her eyes fixed on his. As the material rose, she replied, “I promise, Tony, I’ve followed your rules.”
    He couldn’t help but think how beautiful she looked—offering herself to him. That, combined with the sound of her calling him by his personal name, was enough to release the painful tightness in his slacks. It seemed unreal that he could be on the verge of exploding, and she’d yet to touch him. Surprisingly, at that moment, that wasn’t what he wanted. He yearned for something else, and they both knew his desires came first.

    Tuesday, December 17, 2013

    Behind His Eyes-Consequences!!!!!!!!

    Remember when we first met Tony Rawlings? I remember extreme emotions-from love to hate. Well, VERY SOON we will have the chance to see what was going on in the crazy, beautiful head of his! 

    BEHIND HIS EYES – CONSEQUENCES is a reading companion, by New York Times and USA Today bestselling author Aleatha Romig, recommended to be read after completing all of the CONSEQUENCES SERIES: Consequences, Truth, and Convicted. It is not a standalone book and should not be read as such. If you haven't read the first 3 books yet, click here to buy the trilogy for $9.99. This companion was written to explore the thoughts and motivations of Anthony Rawlings, the man behind the consequences. It was not intended as a total rewrite of Consequences, but meant to enhance the reader’s understanding. BHE-Consequences contains significant scenes from the novel Consequences, as experienced from Anthony’s point of view. It also contains never before read, behind the scenes information, as well as, a glossary of the characters and a timeline devoted to the events within Consequences.

    BEHIND HIS EYES CONSEQUENCES is a dark journey into the mind of the man who believes that he controls everything and controls nothing. Because there is more to learn about a man who:
    Once upon a time, signed a napkin that he knew was a contract. As an esteemed businessman, he forgot one very important rule—he forgot to read the fine print. It wasn’t an acquisition to own another person as he’d previously assumed. It was an agreement to acquire a soul.
    —Aleatha Romig CONVICTED

    It was a long and painful acquisition—especially from Behind His Eyes! 

    Stay tuned- tomorrow and excerpt from Behind His Eyes-Consequences!!!

    Evolve Series Blog Tour


    Click for Amazon only $4.99 for all the books!
    Emerge
    loved this book. It is one of my favs! Now, if you are not a huge fan of love triangles, this might not be for you. However, it is not one of those books where the girl just makes you mad and is going back and forth between guys. She is normal and so honest and straight forward. It is a love story mixed with comedy and real life. Well, except for rich millionaire men sweeping you off your feet. Really, both Evan and Dane are awesome guys. Both are totally book boyfriend material. But from the very beginning, I must say, I was team Dane all the way baby! I cant really give the story away. But here are some of my favorite quotes from the book:

    • "Um, Dane, have you been checking me out? I blush. "Only when I'm breathing."
    • "What took us years to build, a strong foundation that withstood any element, has just suffered its first crack. It took a fraction of the time."
    • ...Dane is a "go big or go home" guy apparently. 
    • "Where is this town she comes from that's obviously filled with the dumbest bastards on the planet?"
    • "Last chance, Disney. Once I get a taste, I'm coming after you with everything I've got."
    • Game on, Evan.
    OH! Laney describes her situation in this book like the Sweet Home Alabama movie. I agree! But what worries me is that in that movie I wanted Reese to stay with the country boy from her past and not the GQ guy from her present! Oh, the dilemma. Do I really hope Dane wins or can Evan still make a comeback? 

    If you like Abbi Glines or Colleen Hoover you will love this series! 

    Embrace & Entangled
    Well, didn't I just devour these books up! This is the second book in the Evolve series. Maybe I have read so many dark, intense books lately that what I really needed was a good romance/comedy to switch it up. 
    Where do I start? I really get the Abbi Glines, Colleen Hoover warm and fuzzies over this series!  I mean, you just love all of the characters. Well, except for Kaitlyn. I was on to her from the very beginning-well, after that text message that is. Entangled is a novella. I think I forgot this while I was reading it because I just didn't want it to end. That Dane! He is just perfect. Evan isn't so bad either. I wont give the story away but here are some of my favorite quotes:

    Embrace

    "When Sawyer says "tag team," you ask for clarification. We could be talking about anything at this point."
    • "Well, you don't have a girlfriend, and because Jesus loves me, neither do I..."
    • ..."I get in the car, immediately turning on my 'pump me up' music, 'Let Me Clear My Throat' by DJ Kool. I mean really, is there any other choice?" 
    • "Laney 'Killer' Walker"
    • "Wink=100% success rate"
    • "...Drunken words are sober thoughts..."
    • Laney figuring out all Disney movies do not have a good mother figure or no mother at all.
    Entangled
    • "Can I get an Amen." (Laney on Dane's sexual hunger lol_
    • "...Triple D, aka Dane Dick Diversion..."
    • Laney's description for her own diversion, sorry I cant write that word. :)
    • "...like the GQ Boss Sex on Legs."
    • "We're still at like, twenty-four shades of grey, mister."



    Author extraordinaire S.E. Hall






    Thursday, December 12, 2013

    Awakening by Ashley Suzanne



    Whoa baby! LOVED this one!. If you remember, Mirage left us with a crazy twist/cliffhanger. Danny and Skylar both are book boyfriends but I am team Skylar all the way baby! In Mirage, he was too much of a biker/bad boy for me but in Awakening, it is just right. I wont give this story away but there are some things I LOVED about this book. Mira is facing a really hard situation. Should she do what is expected of her and what she knows or should she betray that and go for what her heart tells her? What I love is that she was so honest. There was no deception. Here are some of my favorite quotes:
    • Danny's touch is comforting. It always was. But Skylar's touch? It's magical.
    • " You know you're going to break his heart, don't you?" "You know you're breaking mine..."
    • "Danny says you look beautiful." When she goes to the next text, my heart races. I'm almost positive it's from Skylar and the waiting is killing me. I wish she would just put me out of my fucking misery. "Sklyar says you look absolutely breathtaking." Well fuck.
    • I don't have to let the accident ruin the things that I love. I can live my life. I've been given a blessing. I'm alive.
    • "I'm not letting Skylar anywhere near her. I've already lost one girl to..." Danny stops himself in mid-sentence, realizing what he's said and it's far too late for him to back-peddle. Strike fucking three, and I'm out.
    • Danny's shock quickly turned to anger and jealousy. Yeah, buddy, get pissed. I did your job for you.
    • ME- Have a date w/Sklyar 2nite. What do I wear? KYLEE- Bout fuckin time KYLEE- My closet. Red dress. Black boots. ME- Thx Ky. Ur a lifesaver. KYLEE- No panties!!! ME- Ur insane. KYLEE-U'll thank me later. NO PANTIES!!! (LMAO)
    • "Sweets, calm down," Skylar laughs, apparently finding my humiliation funny, "I planned on staying with you all night, just not here." Well shit, should I be offended that he thinks we're sleeping together on the first date? Shut up, Mira, stop over analyzing.
    • I'll promise not to let you get ahead of yourself if you promise not to break my heart.
    • The wind burned pink of Mira's cheeks turns red in a heartbeat. "I'm not wearing any panties," she whispers. I'm dying with laughter...
    • Mother hell, please just give it to me.
    • All she keeps talking about is, "I need to know who Laney chooses" or "I'm so team Evan it's crazy" or my absolute favorite "Where the fuck is a Sawyer when you need one?" Really, if I have to hear about this Evolve Series by S.E. Hall again, I'm going to kill myself.  (Literally made me crack the hell up-out loud-at work!)
    • "Sorry, Ky. That was amazing." No shit, Sherlock, it's always amazing. Have you seen me? LOL
    5 Stars for this one!

    Tuesday, December 10, 2013

    16 year old wisdom

    Tonight, as usual, I was bothering my stepson about his ever growing hair. "You look like Edward Cullen." He responds, "Nah, I kind of have the Bill Clinton hair going on now." That's not what I expect to hear from a 16 year old. We then get into a conversation about Clinton and his impeachment. Of course he didn't believe me and had to do some pretty intense research aka google. This leads to Obama and how he has aged during his presidency. We both agreed it's due to the stress of the job. His solution to the political stress (democratic president, republicans everywhere else) is this: if he were running for presidency he would simply run as opposite of his beliefs. He would run as a republican, get elected then be the most liberal republican or vice versa. 
    As we talk about Democrats and Republicans he compares it to Xbox and Play Station, also known as the console wars. Yes, he managed to compare politics to war raging from xbox and ps lovers worldwide. This then leads to an hour long conversation about his "theories." Apparently, when he takes a 15 minute shower not only is he using up all the hot water in the tank he is pondering the mysteries of the world. This includes religion, beliefs and human interest. My plan for the evening was to write 2 reviews and start reading a book. That plan didn't work so well for me. Instead, I realized how proud I was that this kid that I nag at all the time (SAT"s, College applications, laundry, trash removal) who plays xbox as if it were his full time job and answers most questions with "uh huh, ut uh" or a one word answers was sharing so much information with me. He has always had an expansive vocabulary since he was a child. It's nice to know there is still a working brain in there despite all of the Family Guy episodes and countless hours spent on some sort of video game console. 

    Friday, December 6, 2013

    Intractable Souls (Bound for Ireland) by Tricia Daniels

    Oh Olivia and Ethan! They are soul mates and could not have more different personalities. Isn't that always the case though? Let's take Ethan- strong, powerful, handsome, sexy man from Ireland. Has the accent, the looks and the confidence. He is reminding me of Mr. Grey but instead of being as refined as Grey he is more rugged. When Ethan talks, you listen. Who doesn't love a man with an accent? Olivia has been alone for the last 3 years. her last boyfriend was a piece of work! She is trying to protect herself from the force that is Ethan. Their chemistry is undeniable. You will enjoy their journey, both have strong, stubborn qualities although they show it in different ways. And really, can I just say how funny Ethan is? I just kept waiting to see if he would say arse. There are so many good quotes in this book that made me crack up! Here are a few! 

    • ...what the ever-loving-hell is going on.
    • "Your throne is now secure, my lady."
    • "Do I strike you as the kind of guy who is easily discouraged?"
    • "I don't think that's going to happen, Rach. Every time I talk to him he says something so ridiculous that it makes me want to stomp REALLY HARD on his toes." LOL!!!!
    • "Yes... well I like my music loud...my cars fast and my men in..."
    • "Reading it in French was pretty sexy but hearing him say it in English in a low sensual tone with his Irish accent is so much more."
    • "No worries, beautiful. I assume you'll be paying me back in sexual favors?"
    This book is worth reading just to experience Ethan alone. Everything else is a bonus. I cant help thinking of Gerard Butler when I think of Ethan! 4 stars! I will say I'm a little flustered with the ending. But if you know me you know I'm impatient with endings that don't go they way I'd like. 

     

    Wednesday, December 4, 2013

    Donners of the Dead by Karina Halle


    Hi guys! If you have been to my blog before you know I LOVE me some Karina Halle. Her Experiment in Terror series is one of my favorite series ever! Here is some information on a new book scheduled to come out early next year! Can't wait! 

    Donners of the Dead by Karina Halle
    Publication date: January 2014
    Genres: Horror, Romance

    Synopsis:

    Jake McGraw was unlike anyone I’d ever known. He was brash, rude, unapologetic and arrogant; chauvinistic, close-minded, and terribly stubborn. He was built like a tree, tall with a hard chest and wide shoulders and hands that looked like they could wrestle a bear. He was a cigar-chomping, scruffy-faced, beast of a man. I was pretty sure I hated him. And I know he hated me. But among the flesh-eating monsters in these snow-capped mountains, he was the only thing keeping me alive

    The year is 1851 and pioneers in search of California gold are still afraid to travel on the same route as the tragic Donner party did years before. When the last wagon train to go into the Sierra Nevada mountains fails to arrive at their destination, Eve Smith, an 18-year old half-native girl with immense tracking skills is brought along with the search party, headed by an enigmatic former Texas Ranger, Jake McGraw.

    What they find deep in the dangerous snow-covered terrain is a terrifying consequence of cannibalism, giving new meaning to the term “monster.” While the search party is slowly picked off, one by one, Eve must learn to trust Jake, who harbors more than a few secrets of his own, in order to survive and prevent the monstrosities from reaching civilization.

    ***This is NOT New Adult***

    ----

    AUTHOR BIO
    The daughter of a Norwegian Viking and a Finnish Moomin, Karina Halle grew up in Vancouver, Canada with trolls and eternal darkness on the brain. This soon turned into a love of all things that go bump in the night and a rather sadistic appreciation for freaking people out. Like many of the flawed characters she writes, Karina never knew where to find herself and has dabbled in acting, make-up artistry, film production, screenwriting, photography, travel writing and music journalism. She eventually found herself in the pages of the very novels she wrote (if only she had looked there to begin with).

    Karina holds a screenwriting degree from Vancouver Film School and a Bachelor of Journalism from TRU. Her travel writing, music reviews/interviews and photography have appeared in publications such as Consequence of Sound, Mxdwn and GoNomad Travel Guides. She currently lives on an island on the coast of British Columbia where she's preparing for the zombie apocalypse with her fiance and rescue pup.

    Author Links:

    Sunday, December 1, 2013

    Lisa B Salon & Spa

    I tried out a new hair salon and had such a great experience I had to share it! I found out about this place on Living Social. They had a deal for $49 bucks for a full highlight, cut and style. I checked out their website and facebook page and made an appointment right away. I was a little skeptical at first. I have been to many salons in CT and have not found a place that I have wanted to come back to. Yes, I visited nice salons, pricey salons, less expensive ones. I have not found the price, service and overall experience combination that has made me want to commit. I did here. I met the owner, Lisa and my stylist, Sarah (OMG I hope I have her name right!). They were super friendly! The salon is so adorable and there are quotes on the wall-one of them from the Notebook! That earns super brownie points in my book. We talked the entire time about movies, Christmas, Groupon... The overall experience was just amazing. I will be returning. The services were great and at reasonable prices! You can't ask for a better combination. If you are looking to try out a new salon-give them a try! 

    Finding Home by Ann Vaughn

    I can easily say Ann Vaughn has become one of my new favorite authors! She just writes so well! First off, all of the men are awesome. Even their names are hot! Colton Harris. Just take me to Texas! Really, this guy is just too good to be true! How can he be so romantical! Colt meets Sarah while she is having lunch. Let the courting begin! He pays for their lunch and makes it his priority to find her and make her fall in love with him. These are just my words, he might not go that far but it is exactly what he did. He didn't know that Sarah's past would be so troublesome. She is such a sweet and wholesome woman. She did not realize that everything she thought her life was will turn out to be a lie.  

    Some of my favorite quotes:

    • He's like freakin' Rambo.
    • "I didn't know you could play the guitar." "Chicks dig music," he told her, his face deadpan.
    • "If a gorgeous drink of water like Colt tells you he's got it in the kitchen, give him a kiss and then get the heck outta Dodge!"
    • "Is she hitting on you again?" "Nonstop." Sarah laughed. "That's because you're so hot!" AGREED!

    Overall I think men should read these books so they can discover what makes women swoon! Colt is totally a book boyfriend husband!

    Monday, November 25, 2013

    Long Way Home by Ann Vaughn

    I cant even think how to start this review off. I think I was expecting a romance story here-but I got so much more. This book is like The Notebook meets G.I. Jane combined. Once I started reading I did not stop-literally read it in 3 hours. Let's talk about all of the things I love about this book:  

    • third person narration
    • strong female character
    • strong male character
    • sick ba$tards trying to screw with main characters
    • Love that is like the Notebook
    • an awesome plot that made me literally slap my mouth shut with my hand because I was in shock 2 TIMES!
    Tessa and Shane have loved each other since kindergarten pretty much.  You know how we always tell girls, "If a boy picks on you it means he likes you?' Well, in this book it's the opposite. Tessa is doing all the picking! It is too adorable. Their relationship blooms in high school and of course that always ruins relationships. I wont give the story away but Shane goes to college, Tessa joins the army-YEAH, talk about bada$$! She does well then works for the FBI. Shane does well too. They end up working together on a crazy undercover mission. Boy do these two have a tough road. Shane is definitely, no questions asked, a book boyfriend. Such a great read. I whole heartedly recommend this for anyone-but especially readers who like strong characters who overcome literally the impossible and stay true to themselves. And of course, to anyone who loves a good love story. 

    Sunday, November 24, 2013

    Mirage by Ashley Suzanne

    WOW! I did not know what to expect when I started this book. Danny, Mira, Skylar and their friends are celebrating one of the happiest milestones in their lives-college graduation. Suddenly, tragedy strikes. You are heartbroken. What I love is Mira is so normal. I feel that her actions and reactions are just like what I would feel or do in that situation. Skylar, oh Skylar. I did really like him but then I just wanted to call him an a$$hole! Talk about a bad boy! Also, I really have not read many books about bikers, so this was a first for me. Maybe bikers are supposed to be badass bordering on a$$hole. Now, I wont give anything away but HOLY PLOT TWIST! I DID NOT SEE THAT COMING AT ALL! It is like a punch in the gut-I'm assuming! Ashley Suzanne scored major points in my book for being so creative with this story! You will be shocked and it is so worth reading! There are so many other things in this book I want to share but cant risk giving anything away. You will not be disappointed. You will be shocked. I finished this book at 4am. I could not fall asleep until 5:30. I just wanted to pull out the computer and write away. And talk about determination, I read this book  on my cracked iphone because I was too comfy in bed to get my tablet! Cracked screen and all this book was a real page turner and I fully recommend it!

    And if you are interested in reading this the first 3 people to leave a comment on my blog will win an ecopy of Mirage! 



    The Destined Series Order:
    Mirage - Book 1
    Inception - Book 1.5
    Awakening - Book 2
    Facade - Book 2.5
    Epiphany - Book 3










    Mira’s broken and battered. She’s fighting to put herself back together while her heart is trying to forget. Can she continue moving forward with one man while in love with another?


    Skylar’s wrestling demons he never imagined in his wildest dreams. The girl he’s been in love with for years finally has feelings for him. There’s only one problem: her heart might lie somewhere else. How long until his will power shatters?



    Who will seize Mira’s heart and never let go? Will these feelings ever go away or will they be an AWAKENING?



    **Recommended for mature audiences only**



    Awakening is scheduled for release on November 30th, 2013!  Please keep an eye on Ashley's Facebook Page and Website for the most current updates!!!

    Add Awakening to your goodreads TBR - https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/18400284-awakening


    About the Author
    Ashley Suzanne is a married mother of three little boys as well as a daughter, aunt, sister, best friend, birth mother, blogger, book whore and author.  Ashley is a native to the suburbs of Detroit, with most of her family living in Kentucky and New York.  
    You can usually find Ashley sitting in bed, with her laptop, playing on Facebook, pretending to write, entering giveaways (she’s also a swag whore) or on a football field with her oldest son, Tyler.  Yep, not only is she a football fan, she’s a football mom!
    When she’s reading, it’s typically something to do with romance, erotica being her favorite genre.  Ashley co-owns a blog, 2 Chicks and a Blog, with her GBFF Manda.  She’s a total fan-girl over a few authors, Pamela Ann, Brooke Cumberland, SE Hall, Madeline Sheehan, Jasinda Wilder, Angela Graham, CM Stunich and Riley Rhea to name a few.
    Ashley has no pets, unless you count her children and she is a little OCD.  Her favorite color is pink.  Her favorite drink is cherry vodka and coke and double chocolate brownies are a must.

    Ashley’s debut novel, Mirage, will be self published early September 2013.

    Stalker Links:




    Friday, November 22, 2013




    Riptide by Susan Hayes

    Description:


    Rory Frazier is destined to be the next leader of Kismet Cove, a secret colony of seal shape-shifters known as selkies. The catch? Rory can only claim his birthright if he and his blood brother Evan Sinclair find a suitable mate.


    Jessica Jones has come to Tofino to reclaim her life and move on from the grief of her mother’s death. Jess just wants time alone and space to heal, but kismet has something else in store. After a rogue wave sweeps her out into the frigid Pacific Ocean, Jess is rescued by two handsome men who heat her blood and help to heal her wounded heart.


    Time’s running out for Rory and Evan. They need to present the colony with their chosen mate and tell Jess the truth about who they really are. When their secrets are finally revealed, will their newfound love survive, or will the emotional riptide tear the three of them apart forever?



    Review:  

    Holy Moly! Talk about a spicy read! Not for the faint of heart but definitely for those who want to spice things up a bit. The men on the cover do not do this book justice! Jess returns to a cottage her mother left her that she frequently visited as a kid. Upon her return she meets these 2 hunky, handsome men who both want her. I wont give the story away but-whoa baby! It's not just one of these books that is just XXX each page. There is a good story here. What Jess doesn't know at first is that her boys are shapeshifters. Both Rory and Evan make wonderful book boyfriends! As Mr. Rowling's would say, "They do not disappoint!" 



    Enter to Win! 

    • 3 copies of Riptide, Kismet Cove 1 PDF, Epub or Mobi
    • 3 copies of Windswept, Kismet Cove 2 PDF, Epub or Mobi

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    About the Author:

    Susan lives out on the Canadian west coast surrounded by open water, dear family and good friends. She's jumped out of perfectly good airplanes on purpose and had lunch next to royalty by accident. She's passionately in love with the written word (and a few of her more hunky creations.)

    Writing is her joy, her escape from reality and the only way she knows of to quiet the nagging harridan of a muse she claims the universe assigned to her.


    Social Links:  
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