April 2021 Wrap Up 🎕🌈📕

So, April was a very exciting month! We have 3 new reads, a netflix show, and a re-read! I am very happy to give a phenomenal review for the Shadow & Bone series below. I didn't read a lot of books, but I did enjoy them. A Kingdom of Flesh & Fire is the second book in the Blood & Ash series. I reviewed From Blood & Ash awhile ago and I read the second book in preparation for the release of book 3, A Crown of Gilded Bones. So, far I am thoroughly enjoying Book 3! I also finished another audible book, The Wicked King by Holly Black. I reviewed book #1, The Cruel Prince, already. Alright, let's get down to the reviews. 

Official Reviews

Shadow & Bone Netflix Show ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

So, let me start off this review by saying I adored this series. I loved the accuracy and the creative liberties the show took. The fact that the show is intertwining two of Leigh Bardugo's books is amazing. For those new to this world, Shadow & Bone is a trilogy created by Leigh. I have reviewed her books before and I'll link them below. To prepare for the show's premiere, I re-read book one in the trilogy. I remembered how much world building was in the book. The Grishaverse was just starting to be made. The second set of books in the series is very much a prequel to the Six of Crows series. I feel this is important to mentio because so many watchers were disappointed in the Crows, but what they forget was that the Shadow & Bone trilogy is actually set before the Crows duology. Therefore, the crows in the TV show are babies. It's their backstories (with some new heists). Kaz Breaker is still building his empire and his reputation. Nina isn't even with them yet. She is off on her on journey. We got to see her backstory. 

Moving on, let's dive into the show itself. I LOVED BEN BARNES. I loved him as Prince Caspian and I loved him as the Darkling. The show did give him more of a story than we got in the actual books, but it made him more personable. Alina was portrayed brilliantly. The crows were everything. Jesper was ADORABLE! Kudos to his actor because he made the show. Freddy Carter was everything I picture for Kaz. Inej was just as wraith like as I thought. The actress for Zoya was spot on in my opinion. My only issue was the fact that they sexualized her more than I remembered from the books. Not sure what the purpose in that is, but I guess we'll see. Now, let's talk about Mal....book mal was, IMO, boring. I did not enjoy Mal. I wasn't team Mal in the books. TV show Mal, is awesome! He was given so much more depth than what the books showed. Like, the actor was great & the relationship with Alina & Mal was so much clearer than in the books. I just was not expecting that. I was impressed. 

All in all, I give the show 5 stars. I was not disappointed. I was enthralled from the beginning. I binged it in 24 hours. I was entertained. I saw our queen, Leigh in the background. I got to fan girl overly my childhood crush! It was everything I could've wanted in a book to TV adaptation. I really hope we get a season 2 because I need to see my fav blonde boy, Nikolai. 

Leigh Reviews:

Blog Post: New Author Alert: Leigh Bardugo & the Grishaverse

Ninth House: Official Ninth House Review: Book & Tour

Crave ⭐⭐⭐½

Book 1 (Crave)

By: Tracy Wolff

About Crave:

My whole world changed when I stepped inside the academy. Nothing is right about this place or the other students in it. Here I am, a mere mortal among gods…or monsters. I still can’t decide which of these warring factions I belong to, if I belong at all. I only know the one thing that unites them is their hatred of me.

Then there’s Jaxon Vega. A vampire with deadly secrets who hasn’t felt anything for a hundred years. But there’s something about him that calls to me, something broken in him that somehow fits with what’s broken in me.

Which could spell death for us all.

Because Jaxon walled himself off for a reason. And now someone wants to wake a sleeping monster, and I’m wondering if I was brought here intentionally—as the bait.

Twilight but with a boarding school?-- If you’re looking for a twilighty love story this is your book. It’s got twists and turns and broody teenager angst. I didn’t fully get into the story and I’m not sure if it’s the writing or just the characters but I was frustrated reading about Grace & all her woes. I want more details about the creatures and I was to know Wtf is Grace. Like where is this story going??? The series has potential to be interesting and lively. I have heard the other books in the series are worlds better than this one so I might give the second book a try. So we’ll see how that goes. There are 5 books in the crave series. You can find book 1's link below & the Goodreads link to the series. 

Amazon | Goodreads

A Kingdom of Flesh & Fire ⭐⭐⭐⭐

Book 2 (Blood & Ash):

By: Jennifer L. Armentrout

About A Kingdom of Flesh & Fire:

A Betrayal…

Everything Poppy has ever believed in is a lie, including the man she was falling in love with. Thrust among those who see her as a symbol of a monstrous kingdom, she barely knows who she is without the veil of the Maiden. But what she does know is that nothing is as dangerous to her as him. The Dark One. The Prince of Atlantia. He wants her to fight him, and that’s one order she’s more than happy to obey. He may have taken her, but he will never have her.

A Choice...

Casteel Da’Neer is known by many names and many faces. His lies are as seductive as his touch. His truths as sensual as his bite. Poppy knows better than to trust him. He needs her alive, healthy, and whole to achieve his goals. But he’s the only way for her to get what she wants—to find her brother Ian and see for herself if he has become a soulless Ascended. Working with Casteel instead of against him presents its own risks. He still tempts her with every breath, offering up all she’s ever wanted. Casteel has plans for her. Ones that could expose her to unimaginable pleasure and unfathomable pain. Plans that will force her to look beyond everything she thought she knew about herself—about him. Plans that could bind their lives together in unexpected ways that neither kingdom is prepared for. And she’s far too reckless, too hungry, to resist the temptation.

A Secret…

But unrest has grown in Atlantia as they await the return of their Prince. Whispers of war have become stronger, and Poppy is at the very heart of it all. The King wants to use her to send a message. The Descenters want her dead. The wolven are growing more unpredictable. And as her abilities to feel pain and emotion begin to grow and strengthen, the Atlantians start to fear her. Dark secrets are at play, ones steeped in the blood-drenched sins of two kingdoms that would do anything to keep the truth hidden. But when the earth begins to shake, and the skies start to bleed, it may already be too late.

What the heck....Okay this book is mind blowing compared to the first. Can I just say Prince Casteel is total Rhysand vibes and I love him. Poppy is everything I want in a heroine but I do wish she’d be less young and stubborn. Kieran can stick around because his sassiness makes the book better. Be glad book 3 is ready because this leaves you with a massive cliff hanger and you’d have a book hangover from hell. Like wow. I’m disappointed I waited so long to read this book but I’m so happy I waited so I can dive into the third book ASAP! This book leaves you with many questions. Like you will be going WTF many many times. Honestly though, I'm happy for those moments because 80% of the time Poppy doesn't know what's going on either. I really do see the hype behind the series and I'm very happy I decided to push through book 1. Now onto book 3!! I'll leave links to amazon, and my previous post about book 1. 

Amazon | September Wrap Up

The Wicked King ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Book 2 (The Folk of the Air)
By: Holly Black

About The Wicked King:

The enchanting and bloodthirsty sequel to the New York Times bestselling novel The Cruel Prince.

You must be strong enough to strike and strike and strike again without tiring.

The first lesson is to make yourself strong.

After the jaw-dropping revelation that Oak is the heir to Faerie, Jude must keep her brother safe. To do so, she has bound the wicked king, Cardan, to her, and made herself the power behind the throne. Navigating the constantly shifting political alliances of Faerie would be difficult enough if Cardan were easy to control. But he does everything in his power to humiliate and undermine her even as his fascination with her remains undiminished.

When it becomes all too clear that someone close to Jude means to betray her, threatening her own life and the lives of everyone she loves, Jude must uncover the traitor and fight her own complicated feelings for Cardan to maintain control as a mortal in a Faerie world.

Okay, so my bar was set somewhat low for this book because I wasn’t a huge fan of The Cruel Prince. I will admit I was interested in the story the whole time. I actually wanted to read it more than other books at time but I only had it on audible so my time was limited. I really enjoyed seeing the growth in Jude. She makes a great hand to the king but she definitely still has some maturing to do. I’m starting to see the appeal of Cardan. He’s sassy and witty and I didn’t necessarily see the twist coming at the end because so even believed in him. But it fit the personality started in book 1. I will definitely be reading book 3 because I’m invested in what happens next! Below you'll find the link to Amazon and book 1's review.

Amazon | December Wrap Up

Official Review: After We Collided (the movie)

 Another Sad Book to Movie Adaptation...😢

Let me start this review off by saying, I ADORE the After series. Anna Todd did a fabulous job with her books. I started out reading the books on Wattpad when I was in high school. That's over 6 years ago. I remember staying up all night reading her chapters & the dreadful waiting until she uploaded on Wattpad. I was stoked when she got published for real. I remember rushing to the closest Barnes & Noble in college so I could buy After as an actual book! So, imagine my excitement when she told her fans that she got picked up for a movie series! Like YES! Please give us all the HESSA vibes on the big screen please! Also, to try not to repeat myself...my review for AWC is very much along the lines of my review for After. My link to that is here--> Book to Film Adaptations  

About After We Collided:
Tessa has everything to lose. Hardin has nothing to lose… except her.

After a tumultuous beginning to their relationship, Tessa and Hardin were on the path to making things work. Tessa knew Hardin could be cruel, but when a bombshell revelation is dropped about the origins of their relationship—and Hardin’s mysterious past—Tessa is beside herself.

Hardin will always be… Hardin. But is he really the deep, thoughtful guy Tessa fell madly in love with despite his angry exterior—or has he been a stranger all along? She wishes she could walk away. It’s just not that easy. Not with the memory of passionate nights spent in his arms. His electric touch. His hungry kisses.

Still, Tessa’s not sure she can endure one more broken promise. She put so much on hold for Hardin—school, friends, her mom, a relationship with a guy who really loved her, and now possibly even a promising new career. She needs to move forward with her life.

Hardin knows he made a mistake, possibly the biggest one of his life. He’s not going down without a fight. But can he change? Will he change for love?

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

To me great book to film adaptations would be the Divergent series, the Hunger Games, & even the last few Twilight movies. Even though, Twilight started out rough, it all came together AND it followed the storylines. For some reason, AWC didn't follow any chronological order compared to the book. I'm definitely not going to mention how the published book is missing pages from the Wattpad version. I know published books have to take out unnecessary parts but to me the reader they seemed important. I'm still salty that they changed the persona for Tessa. Also, since when is Christain an a**hole? And Trevor was so not the kinda guy to spout off to Hardin. I just don't understand how Anna can help create the movie & rave about how much better AWC is going to be and it's so true to the storyline.

 Well news flash, it was NOT. I re-read AWC so I could remember what to expect in the movie. I was mad the 5 minutes into the movie AGAIN. I was constantly thinking/saying, that's not right, that isn't supposed to happen yet, HE WASN'T A PART OF THIS! (If you wanna know what I mean leave a comment). I'm trying to not write spoilers, but c'mon at least keep the characters straight. Like what the heck is going on with Zed? He's supposed to be pining after Tessa but that wasn't anywhere in the movie. UGH, needless to say, this movie was not good. It was a sad adaptation. What about when Hardin's mom is there a week before Christmas & then all of the sudden it's 5 minutes later with Tessa going to work after Christmas. UHMM....when did Christmas even happen??? The overly fast paced timeline of the stories was bad. So many details were missed. AND the Hessa relationship in the book is NOT accurately represented in this movie. 

The plus side I guess, the movie was rated R which is great! However, the adult scenes were cringy and awkward. I feel bad for the actors and if their family watches because I was uncomfortable for them. Outside of getting the rating upped, this movie is  a 2 star review for me. I had high hopes & expectations and that's on me. I should've known it wasn't going to live up to the idea/book. I don't even know if I want to see the next movie or two because I don't want to keep getting disappointed. I'll stick to reading the books and not caring about the movie. 

Official Review: Charming Like Us 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟

 CHARMING LIKE US (Like Us #7)

By Krista & Becca Ritchie 

Add to Goodreads: HERE 

About Charming Like Us:

As the hottest bodyguard on Security Force Omega, Oscar Oliveira has no trouble finding a warm body at any odd hour. But he's ready for more. 

And for the first time in this ex-pro boxer's life, he just got rejected. For a kiss. 

Oscar's friends warned him not to fall for the straight guy, but flirty, sexy-as-hell Jack Highland made that difficult. Now Jack has Oscar's sweater. His belt. His bandana. And Oscar seriously wants them back. 

As for Jack – well, Jack wants a lot of things. 

But for the first time in this confident filmmaker's life, he's absolutely 100%... confused. Add another ultra-complication in a sea of complicated: Enter Charlie Cobalt. 

The enigmatic famous one that Oscar is sworn to protect wants his own show, and he's asked Jack to film it. A Charlie-centric docuseries will force Oscar & Jack to share the same air again. 

Option 1: Ignore each other. 
Option 2: Flirt, aw yeah. And act like the rejection never happened.
Option 3: Confront each other about the rejected kiss. 

With options on the table and their romantic lives unsettled, both Jack & Oscar are concerned about why Charlie wants his own show. And the longer filming lasts, the more tumultuous their personal & professional worlds become. 

Chaos reigns when you're around the Cobalts, and Jack & Oscar are swept up among the most destructive one.

🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟 HIGHVEIRA FOR LIFE!!!! --Wow, another 5 star read for the twins of romance. God, I loved this. It’s no Marrow but HIGHVEIRA are their own entity. Jack is superb and I already knew I’d like Oscar. I really need a Charlie story like NOW. So much happened in this book and I must say I did laugh out loud when the drunken incident happened. This book has its ups and downs but it was so enjoyable. I can’t wait to see what else the girls come up with. The drama, the angst, the family dynamics and so much more made this book incredible. I am so excited for Wild Like Us next month 🤗😍❤️

~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~

ORDER NOW:

Amazon | Apple Books | B&N

Haven't started the Like Us series yet? It's perfect for binge readers! It's all about three wealthy families and the hot bodyguards that protect them. Start at Book 1 and continue down the list below!
THE LIKE US SERIES:
1. Damaged Like Us: https://amzn.to/2CTwPbT
2. Lovers Like Us: https://amzn.to/32W8m05
3. Alphas Like Us: https://amzn.to/2CTwTIF
4. Tangled Like Us: https://amzn.to/2XltdZq
5. Sinful Like Us: https://amzn.to/2rLdMxZ
6. Headstrong Like Us: https://amzn.to/2rSIYvr       

The Like Us series is a true series, one continuous timeline, that follows a family of wealthy celebrities and the people that protect them. It must be read in the following order: THE LIKE US SERIES 1. Damaged Like Us 2. Lovers Like Us 3. Alphas Like Us 4. Tangled Like Us 5. Sinful Like Us 6. Headstrong Like Us       

Coming Next: Wild Like Us (Book 8)

Release Date: November 17th, 2020

Add to Goodreads HERE

About Wild Like Us:

One is new to love.

One is bad at love.
One denies love.

Twenty-one-year-old, foul-mouthed Olympian, Sullivan Meadows, just made a huge mistake. She told her bodyguards—her buddies, her pals—they could take her virginity. Words forever engrained in her brain.

And theirs.

Akara Kitsuwon & Banks Moretti are best friends, sworn to protect each other and their client Sullivan. But upon hearing her confession, their reactions aren’t what Sulli expects.

They’re all friends anyway.

Just friends.

Solid, good friends.

Right?

As the three embark on the road to Yellowstone, tension builds and close quarters leave no secrets behind. Feelings for her childhood friendship with Akara—that teasing, flirty leader—grow hotter, but so do her feelings for Banks, the rugged, heart-melting Marine.

While Sulli is out west to free-solo her dad’s old climbing routes, the only true destination the three of them are certain of is Yellowstone.

Love & romance are totally up in the air.

Wild Like Us is an MFM Romance and Book 8 in the Like Us Series.

Related Links:

Blog: Book Promo: Charming Like Us is LIVE!!!!! 😍😍😍

Blog: New Authors Alert: Twin Sisters, Krista & Becca Ritchie

Blog: Book Promo: HEADSTRONG LIKE US IS LIVE

Blog: Official Review: The Like Us Series

September 2020 Wrap Up 📚📚📚

 

New Official Reviews

Serpent & Dove Review ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
By Shelby Mahurin

About Serpent & Dove: 
Bound as one to love, honor, or burn.

Two years ago, Louise le Blanc fled her coven and took shelter in the city of Cesarine, forsaking all magic and living off whatever she could steal. There, witches like Lou are hunted. They are feared. And they are burned.

Sworn to the Church as a Chasseur, Reid Diggory has lived his life by one principle: thou shalt not suffer a witch to live. His path was never meant to cross with Lou's, but a wicked stunt forces them into an impossible union—holy matrimony.

The war between witches and Church is an ancient one, and Lou's most dangerous enemies bring a fate worse than fire. Unable to ignore her growing feelings, yet powerless to change what she is, a choice must be made.

And love makes fools of us all

Don’t sleep in this series--Okay, I have had this book in my library for at least a year and I’m so mad at myself I didn’t dedicate the time to it until now. WOW, great job Shelby! This book is awesome. The originality and the world building is freaking phenomenal. I loved Lou and I loved Reid. Coco is the best friend anyone would kill for. I did pick up on some foreshadowing but not all. I enjoyed the twists and learning about all the different witch cultures and that twist at the end was mind blowing 😉 If you’re on the fence about this series, don’t be. I can’t wait to start book #2.

Order on Amazon

Book #2 Blood & Honey 

About Blood & Honey:
After narrowly escaping death at the hands of the Dames Blanches, Lou, Reid, Coco, and Ansel are on the run from coven, kingdom, and church—fugitives with nowhere to hide.

To elude the scores of witches and throngs of chasseurs at their heels, Lou and Reid need allies. Strong ones. But protection comes at a price, and the group is forced to embark on separate quests to build their forces. As Lou and Reid try to close the widening rift between them, the dastardly Morgane baits them in a lethal game of cat and mouse that threatens to destroy something worth more than any coven.

The hotly anticipated sequel to the New York Times and IndieBound bestseller Serpent & Dove—packed with even steamier romance and darker magic—is perfect for fans of Sarah J. Maas.

From Blood and Ash Review ⭐⭐⭐⭐

By: Jennifer L. Armentrout

About From Blood And Ash:

A Maiden…
Chosen from birth to usher in a new era, Poppy’s life has never been her own. The life of the Maiden is solitary. Never to be touched. Never to be looked upon. Never to be spoken to. Never to experience pleasure. Waiting for the day of her Ascension, she would rather be with the guards, fighting back the evil that took her family, than preparing to be found worthy by the gods. But the choice has never been hers.
A Duty…
The entire kingdom’s future rests on Poppy’s shoulders, something she’s not even quite sure she wants for herself. Because a Maiden has a heart. And a soul. And longing. And when Hawke, a golden-eyed guard honor bound to ensure her Ascension, enters her life, destiny and duty become tangled with desire and need. He incites her anger, makes her question everything she believes in, and tempts her with the forbidden.
A Kingdom…
Forsaken by the gods and feared by mortals, a fallen kingdom is rising once more, determined to take back what they believe is theirs through violence and vengeance. And as the shadow of those cursed draws closer, the line between what is forbidden and what is right becomes blurred. Poppy is not only on the verge of losing her heart and being found unworthy by the gods, but also her life when every blood-soaked thread that holds her world together begins to unravel.


Woah, push through guys it’s worth it.-- Forewarning, this book gets steamyyyyy and I mean STEAMY at the end. Okay, not gonna lie this was a tough book for me to get into. I kept seeing great reviews and MUST read recommendations but it didn’t really pick you for me until about 68% through. Boy am I glad I pushed through! This book ended up being awesome! I saw the few twists coming but not that cliff hanger! I’m so glad the second book is out already because I’d be livid if I had to wait. Poppy is clearly a confusion girl and I’m so glad she had Victor and Hawke to help her out but boy oh boy does it take a turn. Be prepared because when this storyline picks up it gets GOOD quickly.

Order on Amazon

Book #2 A Kingdom of Flesh and Fire

About A Kingdom of Flesh and Fire:

A Betrayal…
Everything Poppy has ever believed in is a lie, including the man she was falling in love with. Thrust among those who see her as a symbol of a monstrous kingdom, she barely knows who she is without the veil of the Maiden. But what she does know is that nothing is as dangerous to her as him. The Dark One. The Prince of Atlantia. He wants her to fight him, and that’s one order she’s more than happy to obey. He may have taken her, but he will never have her.
A Choice...
Casteel Da’Neer is known by many names and many faces. His lies are as seductive as his touch. His truths as sensual as his bite. Poppy knows better than to trust him. He needs her alive, healthy, and whole to achieve his goals. But he’s the only way for her to get what she wants—to find her brother Ian and see for herself if he has become a soulless Ascended. Working with Casteel instead of against him presents its own risks. He still tempts her with every breath, offering up all she’s ever wanted. Casteel has plans for her. Ones that could expose her to unimaginable pleasure and unfathomable pain. Plans that will force her to look beyond everything she thought she knew about herself—about him. Plans that could bind their lives together in unexpected ways that neither kingdom is prepared for. And she’s far too reckless, too hungry, to resist the temptation.
A Secret…
But unrest has grown in Atlantia as they await the return of their Prince. Whispers of war have become stronger, and Poppy is at the very heart of it all. The King wants to use her to send a message. The Descenters want her dead. The wolven are growing more unpredictable. And as her abilities to feel pain and emotion begin to grow and strengthen, the Atlantians start to fear her. Dark secrets are at play, ones steeped in the blood-drenched sins of two kingdoms that would do anything to keep the truth hidden. But when the earth begins to shake, and the skies start to bleed, it may already be too late.

Twisted Kingdoms Reviews

The Hunt (Book #1) ⭐⭐⭐⭐

By: Frost Kay

About The Hunt:

Death marked her from her very first breath.

Being sired by a Madrid is supposed to be a blessing, but for Tempest, it's a curse that leaves her orphaned, penniless, and enslaved to a blood thirsty crown on the brink of war.

Found too unruly to become a ward of the court, she's thrust into the care of the King's Hounds - the assassins and warriors responsible for protecting the kingdom. Driven by rage and an oath to avenge her mother's memory, Tempest throws herself into training.

But becoming the first ever female assassin isn't enough. Now, she must obtain the heart of her kingdom's most feared enemy - the jester - a deadly shapeshifter hidden in a land twisted by myth and darkness.

Revenge is never easy or cheap. Tempest is willing to sacrifice everything to see justice served. Even her own soul and freedom.

Enter the world of the Twisted Kingdoms at your own risk where monsters wear pretty masks, good and evil are at war, and fairy tales don't exist. If you love fiery heroines, sexy villains, enemies-to-lovers romance, pulse-pounding action, mafia undertones, and dark fairy tales, you need to discover the new series readers are comparing to Holly Blacks's Cruel Prince and Leigh Bardugo's Six of Crows.

Amazing story. I couldn’t put it down. I love Tempest. She’s a great heroine and Frost does a great job building this world. I knew she’d do a awesome. Pyre is a joy to have in the book. I really enjoy his sass & I'm ngl I definitely saw that twist coming. I can’t wait for book two!

Order on Amazon

The Rook (Book #2) ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

By: Frost Kay

About The Rook:

The Dark Court is no place for a lady.

After tricking the king, Tempest has finally won her prize - a place on the king's council - but it comes with a steep price. The monarch wishes for her to once again infiltrate the Jester's Dark Court and crush the remaining rebellion.

Trapped between her kingdom and her honor, she throws herself into the task, determined to discover her true enemies. Slipping into her role as the Jester's fiery plaything and personal assassin comes with an ease that terrifies her.

The charming and dangerous shapeshifter and his world of eternal night tempts her to forget her purpose. But Tempest is no man's pawn. Her destiny was never to sit back passively.

She makes her own path. Even if it's painted with blood, strewn with bodies, and scattered with the pieces of her broken heart.

Enter the world of the Twisted Kingdoms at your own risk where monsters wear pretty masks, good and evil are at war, and fairy tales don't exist. If you love fiery heroines, sexy villains, enemies-to-lovers romance, pulse-pounding action, mafia undertones, and dark fairy tale retellings, you need to discover the new series readers are comparing to books by Holly Black, Leigh Bardugo, Meagan Spooner, Sarah J Maas, Emma Hamm, Brandon Sanderson, Melanie Cellier, and Audrey Grey.

Better a Second Time--If you loved the first book in the series, you'll be even more impressed with The Rook. I loved Temp & Pyre. They go together so well & their banter is always entertaining. I won't post any spoilers here, but this book has twists and it leaves you craving the third book. Why is the next release so far away???

Order on Amazon

Links to Other Reviews:

Queen of Shadows & A Court Of Mist & Fury:  Official Review: For All of Sarah J. Maas Books

The Shadows Between Us: New Author Alert: Tricia Levenseller

Damaged Like Us & Lovers Like Us: Official Review: The Like Us Series

Ninth House: Official Ninth House Review: Book & Tour

New Author Alert: Tricia Levenseller

 Official Review: The Shadows Between Us

By: Tricia Levenseller

About The Shadows Between Us:

Alessandra is tired of being overlooked, but she has a plan to gain power:

1) Woo the Shadow King.
2) Marry him.
3) Kill him and take his kingdom for herself.

No one knows the extent of the freshly crowned Shadow King’s power. Some say he can command the shadows that swirl around him to do his bidding. Others say they speak to him, whispering the thoughts of his enemies. Regardless, Alessandra knows what she deserves, and she’s going to do everything within her power to get it.

But Alessandra’s not the only one trying to kill the king. As attempts on his life are made, she finds herself trying to keep him alive long enough for him to make her his queen—all while struggling not to lose her heart. After all, who better for a Shadow King than a cunning, villainous queen?

Well, I read this book because it was recommend to me. I was hesitant because I didn’t care for the arrogance of the main character. She bothered me with her kill this kill that and I deserve to be queen. Not am I glad I kept reading! I ended up thoroughly enjoying this book. It helps that I liked the other main characters. I did see the big twist coming at the end but I wasn’t disappointed. It’s most definitely a Slytherin meets moral romance read! Highly recommend 😊

About the Author:

Tricia Levenseller is the author of the Daughter of the Pirate King duology, Warrior of the Wild, The Shadows Between Us, and forthcoming Blade of Secrets. She likes to describe her books as young adult alternate–world historical fantasies with heavy romantic subplots.

Initially from a small town in Oregon, Tricia now lives next to the Rocky Mountains with her bossy dog, Rosy. She received her degree in English Language and editing, and she is thrilled that she never has to read a textbook again. When she’s not writing or reading, Tricia enjoys putting together jigsaw puzzles, playing volleyball, playing Overwatch with her siblings, and watching shows while eating extra-buttered popcorn.

Follow Her:

Website | Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | Pinterest

Official Ninth House Review: Book & Tour

Ninth House Tour Experience

Can I start off by saying Leigh Bardugo is a spectacular human being! I was amazed by her candor and her personality. She is truly awesome and wholesome. I was in awe the majority of her event. My mother and I went to see Leigh in St. Louis, Missouri. We received a physical copy of Leigh's new book, Ninth House as well as, a leather bookmark. You were able to bring one other item to have Leigh autograph. There were books & merchandise available for purchasing too. The first 30 minutes of the event was a live Q&A with Leigh. I didn't take notes or record anything because I wanted to focus on the experience. I did take a few pictures and you can find them below. I've been to one other author tour and that was Sarah J. Maas's Kingdom of Ash tour. Trying to compare the two isn't fair in my eyes. They're two different authors with two different styles. I loved both experiences, but Leigh's was more quaint & intimate whereas Sarah, had limited availability and only a small few got to meet her after the Q&A was over. I wasn't fortunate enough to score meet & greet tickets, so I didn't get the chance to talk with my fav. I did get to talk shortly with Leigh and honestly I was SO socially awkward. I just kept saying thank you and how much I loved her books. She was sweet and complimented my "No Mourners No Funerals" t-shirt. I bought that and my mom a shirt from Blissfully Bookish Company. I'll leave a link to their website here.  

There were so many different questions asked. I'll give a list below with as much as I can remember.

• How will the shadow & bone Netflix show work with the trilogy &  duology?
• Season 1 will be heavy on the Shadow & Bone book with some unknown content on the SoC characters. 
• How was writing Ninth House different from other books? (Ninth House is an adult novel)
• There's more at play than a young adult novel. Dealing with race, gender, elite societies, and so much more is more complex than when you do YA. 
• How many books will be in the Ninth House series?
• Leigh has a number in mind and it's around 5.-- I was so excited about this ;) 
• Will there be another book for Six of Crows?
• At this time no. She has a notebook of ideas for stories and she hopes that she'll someday have time to write a third book. She has a general idea/arch to how she wants the Grishaverse to play out but it's finding the right time to get it there.
• What can we expect from Ninth House?
• to quote Leigh, "Bonkers magic."
• It's nothing she's ever done before and she couldn't be more excited for her readers to enjoy it.
• Is Leigh worried about having Ninth House being bought out for a TV series with Amazon when she hasn't finished the series yet?
• She is slightly concerned but nothing major. She doesn't want to have a George R Martin on her hands, but she also knows that showbiz takes forever to get going. She hopes to have more than one or two books out before the show airs. This way she can (hopefully) avoid any time crunches or having to work with a show that surpasses her books. 
• Is Leigh concerned about the actors for Shadow & Bones being older than she had written the character to be?
• No, she thinks they're all perfect and look much younger than their age portrays. She understands that to having actors under the age of 18 create more risk/issues for the show. Having older actors help to decreases limitations & they're more experienced and can handle to older concepts/experiences that take place in the Shadow & Bones world. The book characters might be a young age but they've experiences so many hardships that they don't act or think like their age. 
• What made Leigh choose TV over Cinema for her books to screen adaptations?
• She said there really wasn't a huge choice. She was offered a few choices but in the end the TV made the most sense. She likes that it leaves more room to grow the show. There's less to be cut out unlike movies where so many details are forced out. This way her books are given more opportunity to fully show what happens and keep in as much detail as possible.

Overall, the tour was worth it. Leigh was awesome. I got a personalized signed copy of Ninth House and a signed copy of my special edition, Six of Crows. My mom also got a personalized signed copy and she had King of Scars signed. We enjoyed the evening with Leigh & loved getting the opportunity to meet her. I will definitely be going to another tour if she has one! 😍

Ninth House

By: Leigh Bardugo

About Ninth House:

“The best fantasy novel I’ve read in years, because it’s about real people. Bardugo’s imaginative reach is brilliant, and this story―full of shocks and twists―is impossible to put down.” – Stephen King

Galaxy “Alex” Stern is the most unlikely member of Yale’s freshman class. Raised in the Los Angeles hinterlands by a hippie mom, Alex dropped out of school early and into a world of shady drug dealer boyfriends, dead-end jobs, and much, much worse. By age twenty, in fact, she is the sole survivor of a horrific, unsolved multiple homicide. Some might say she’s thrown her life away. But at her hospital bed, Alex is offered a second chance: to attend one of the world’s most elite universities on a full ride. What’s the catch, and why her?

Still searching for answers to this herself, Alex arrives in New Haven tasked by her mysterious benefactors with monitoring the activities of Yale’s secret societies. These eight windowless “tombs” are well-known to be haunts of the future rich and powerful, from high-ranking politicos to Wall Street and Hollywood’s biggest players. But their occult activities are revealed to be more sinister and more extraordinary than any paranoid imagination might conceive.

Official Review:

I listened to this book on audible & let me tell ya it took me foreverrrr to finish this book. I prefer reading the books myself so I probably won't be using audible much. It's nice for those days I'm not feeling music on my way to work. Also, it can sync with your kindle app so I'm always on the right parts! Even though it took the good part of a year almost to finish this book, I remembered every part. Leigh did a phenomenal job with Alex's story. I'm not a huge adult book reader but this was awesome. Leigh created a creepy world and it makes me want to visit the Yale campus in the fall so bad! Hearing her talk about it on tour was awesome but reading her descriptions of the buildings and the campus is so enticing. I already knew from her previous work that Leigh can build a world & characters so well, but she made Alex her own edgy self. Alex is relatable but she also has that hard life living that not everyone experiences. She's her own person & she really grows throughout the book. I'd recommend Ninth House to anyone who wants a twisted murder mystery with some magic thrown in. 😜 I can't wait to see where Leigh goes with this series! I think we'll have to wait a few years before we get book #2 but that's okay with me. Good things come to those who wait right? 🤷

Order Ninth House Below: 

Amazon | Google Play | BN | Apple Books | Kobo | Leigh's Website

Other Links:

Blog Post: New Author Alert: Leigh Bardugo & the Grishaverse

Blog Post: Book Promo: Ninth House is Live!!

Official Review: Take Me Back ⭐⭐⭐⭐

Take Me Back

By: Meghan March

Standalone Novel

⭐⭐⭐⭐

About Take Me Back:

From USA Today bestselling author Meghan March comes a hot new standalone second chance romance.

We fell in love on a beach, got married in paradise, and rode off into the sunset. It should have been perfect, but saying “I do” doesn’t guarantee a happily-ever-after.
Two years later, I barely recognize either of us behind the walls we’ve built.
It’s time to bring it full circle. Back to a tropical paradise. Back to find out if we can still make this work.
I’m not willing to give her up, but to save us, I have to risk everything.
Two damaged people.
Countless secrets.
The fight of our lives.
We might be broken, but we’re not done.

Take Me Back is a standalone second chance romance, not related to any series.

Redemption Romances are my favorite. I loved this book. I gave it four stars because I have other works by Meghan that I love more. This was my second read through and I just appreciated the story more. Dane & Kat can't seem to find their connection anymore so they go on an anniversary trip to try to rekindle their lost love. Along the way they experience each others' heart breaking moments & make their bonds stronger. Don't worry, there's adult only scenes & there's action! You'll also get to meet a certain character from another series, *cough, Hennessy brother, cough*. I really want a Rome story & I know Meghan has said he's been talking in her head! So, fingers crossed we'll get that soon. Anyway, this is a great standalone romance novel. You don't have to read any of her other books to enjoy this. Also, I really want to visit Belize now! Great job Meghan :)  

Order Take Me Back:

Amazon | BN | Kobo | Apple Books | Paperback | Audible

Related Links:

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Official Review: House of Earth and Blood (Crescent City Book 1) 🌟🌟🌟🌟

House of Earth and Blood

By: Sarah J. Maas

Crescent City Book 1

Add to your TBR on Goodreads: House of Earth and Blood

About this book:

#1 New York Times bestselling author Sarah J. Maas launches her brand-new CRESCENT CITY series with House of Earth and Blood: the story of half-Fae and half-human Bryce Quinlan as she seeks revenge in a contemporary fantasy world of magic, danger, and searing romance.

Bryce Quinlan had the perfect life-working hard all day and partying all night-until a demon murdered her closest friends, leaving her bereft, wounded, and alone. When the accused is behind bars but the crimes start up again, Bryce finds herself at the heart of the investigation. She'll do whatever it takes to avenge their deaths.

Hunt Athalar is a notorious Fallen angel, now enslaved to the Archangels he once attempted to overthrow. His brutal skills and incredible strength have been set to one purpose-to assassinate his boss's enemies, no questions asked. But with a demon wreaking havoc in the city, he's offered an irresistible deal: help Bryce find the murderer, and his freedom will be within reach.

As Bryce and Hunt dig deep into Crescent City's underbelly, they discover a dark power that threatens everything and everyone they hold dear, and they find, in each other, a blazing passion-one that could set them both free, if they'd only let it.

With unforgettable characters, sizzling romance, and page-turning suspense, this richly inventive new fantasy series by #1 New York Times bestselling author Sarah J. Maas delves into the heartache of loss, the price of freedom-and the power of love.

"Through love, all is possible." --Remember this quote & honestly a lot of us might start to live by it too. 

Have you ever had a book that you just knew, the expectations were too high for an author to reach? Well Sarah, you came pretty damn close. I’m a Maas head through and through. I’d read her books even if they were crap. I'm not going to lie; this book was a struggle to get into. I wasn't in the mood to try to read a new series. I wanted the next ACoTaR book. I wanted to stay on my romance novel kick. This whole book seemed daunting & I didn't think it'd live up to the hype that is Sarah. I started it the day it came out and got stuck on chapter 3 for almost two months. 

I knew I needed to buckle up and get down to business with this book. So, I told myself I needed to grow up & get into this adult novel.  I’m a very much a YA genre, but I was going to get through this book. Get past all the minute details and background information. I could do it. And I’m SO glad I did. I ended up loving characters who died and it hurt...badly. I loved Bryce so much. I LOVED that it wasn't all about a super magically gifted girl. No, Bryce used guns & knives and was straight bad a**. Hunt was an unexpected joy to read about. He’s no Rhys but he will be someone I compare other male leads too. Ruhn is going to be a fav and I’ll forever wish to get a side story for him. The last half of this book blew me out of the water. I saw a few of the twists coming but man did I enjoy the ride. I can’t wait to see what happens next with this series.

Anyway, go ahead and dive into this book. But please go into it with an open mind and 0 expectations. I wish I had because I might've finished it sooner, but since there's no word on book 2 anytime soon... so, I'm not overly sad it took me awhile. BUT, I'll probably re-read it before this year is over. Plus, this pandemic gives me plenty of time to read books. 

ORDER HoEaB NOW!!!:

Amazon | Apple Books | B&N | Kobo 

Want more Sarah J. Maas?😉 Check out this blog that talks about everything SJM:

Official Review: For All of Sarah J. Maas Books

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Official Review: Madam Temptress ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Madam Temptress

By: Meghan March

Magnolia Duet Book #2

About Madam Temptress:

From New York Times bestselling author Meghan March comes the stunning conclusion to the highly-anticipated Magnolia Duet.

I didn’t choose this path. No one would.
I played the cards I was dealt.
This life made me. This city made me.
I won’t apologize for who I’ve become.
Moses wouldn't have me any other way.
He says he wants forever, and I’m starting to believe him.
But I can’t outrun my past, and my sins are catching up with me.
If it’s time to atone, I’ll gladly pay my penance.
We might be getting our second chance, but we have to make it out alive first.

Madam Temptress is the second book of the Magnolia Duet and should be read after Creole Kingpin.

Wow, this series was awesome. Meghan you did wonderful again. This was a page turning story. It had some awesome POVs in a few chapters and I appreciated that so much. Thank you Meghan. I know many of your readers are going to lose their minds when they see who is speaking. Like usual we got a nice visit from other characters in the NOLA world. 😊 I can’t wait to see what else 2020 has in store for you! I adored getting to witness more Mount & Kiera and you know who 😉 but also can we please get Rhodes story like now??? I need more details on him and don’t hold back on the dirty ones 😏 I’m so happy Mags & Moses got their story and even if I might’ve saw the ending coming; I was still enthralled with it 💜 everything about this series is epic and the NOLA world you’ve built is unforgettable. 😍

 

ORDER MADAM TEMPTRESS:

Amazon | Apple Books | B&N | Kobo | Paperback

Add to your TBR on Goodreads: http://bit.ly/MadamTemptressGR

Related Links:

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Official Review: In Fury Lies Mischief ✮⭐✮⭐✮

IN FURY LIES MISCHIEF (Midnight Mayhem #2) 

By Amo Jones 

Release Date: March 10th 

Cover Designer: Hang Le Cover Model: Adi Gillespie Photographer: Arron Dunworth   

Add to Goodreads

About the Book: 

She was everything that I wanted. He was everything that I despised.   Until she wasn’t. Until he wasn’t.   

Killian Cornellii was a walking calamity. He reached inside of me and touched every single inch of my ruined soul, but he didn’t just touch it. He caressed, petted, and captivated it. He tailored me to fit into the palm of his hands. The same hands that possess so much cruelty, were the very same that comforted me.   

I thought I knew him. He thought he knew me.   

This isn’t a fairy tale, or some achingly beautiful story about two soul mates who instantly fall irrevocably in love with each other.  

This is a story about a love so painful, so rich, that it destroys everything and everyone around it. Including ourselves.   

Midnight Mayhem is the platform to which Killian performs his tricks on, but the greatest trick wouldn’t come from him.  It would come from me.   

Tricksters don’t have hearts. They just pretend that they do. 

Tick. Tock. Tick. Tock.  

This is considered a standalone novel in the Midnight Mayhem series. I didn't read book #1 when I received this ARC & I kind of wish I had. I was confused and found myself bouncing between the two books s I could find answers. I'm also a nosy person so I when King & Perse were mentioned, I wanted to know who the heck was Perse (I was 1/3 of the way through In Peace Lies Havoc). So, I highly recommend either skipping book 1 and then go back OR read it completely before reading book #2. It's my own fault I was bouncing between (not the best time management 🙈🙈). 

Moving on , here are my thoughts on In Fury Lies Mischief!! Every time I pick up a story by Amo I know I'm signing up for a kick a** joyride. This story wasn't any different. Killian & Saskia are something else! So many clues & questions get raised throughout the book & typical Amo fashion we don't get answers right away. Also, can we just fangirl about the fact that the nickname for Saskia is Sass? Like I love that. I want a fun nickname like that. I love these dark & twisty stories. Every time I read one of these books my mind gets jacked. Amo doe a great great great job at creating dark worlds with lust, angsty, unforgettable love, and so much more. I'm always down to read one of her amazing worlds. Saskia & Killian's journey is a fast paced & will keep you on your toes. The back & forth banter/bickering/flirting between Sass & Kill is just what any reader needs. I'm so happy I got the opportunity to read this book & I can't wait for book #3 to come! 😃

ORDER IN FURY LIES MISCHIEF TODAY! 

Amazon: https://tinyurl.com/IFLMamazon 

Nook: https://tinyurl.com/wa8nkvz 

Apple Books: https://tinyurl.com/IFLMapple 

Kobo: https://tinyurl.com/IFLMkobo  

Check out the deal on book #1, In Peace Lies Havoc!!! 😄

Connect w/Amo: 

Website | Facebook | Facebook Group | Twitter | Instagram | Goodreads | Amazon | Bookbub 

Links:

Blog Post: New Author Alert: Amo Jones & The Elite Kings Club Series 
Blog Post: Cover Reveal: In Fury Lies Mischief 🙊🙊🙊