Review: Lady Gone Wicked (Wicked Secrets, #2) by Elizabeth Bright

Lady Gone Wicked by Elizabeth Bright

Release Date: February 26, 2018 
Series: Wicked Secrets, #2 
Publisher: Entangled Scandalous 

Genre: Adult, Romance, Historical 

Source: ARC provided via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review 

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Nicholas Eastwood is finally about to get everything he ever wanted. As a reward for his service to the Crown, he has been offered the title of marquess. All he has to do is stay scandal-free until the papers are signed. There’s just one problem: His ex-lover, presumed dead, is remarkably alive.

Adelaide Bursnell is determined to right her wrongs. She will be a dutiful daughter and loving sister. Most importantly, she must marry before her scandal catches up to her. Nicholas was once her ruin, but now he is determined to be her salvation. If he can find her a suitable husband, their shared past can stay buried.

But old temptations prove impossible to resist and scandal can never stay secret for long...

Each book in the Wicked Secrets series is STANDALONE:

* Twice As Wicked
* Lady Gone Wicked

Review: 

Last fall I had the pleasure of reading an early copy of Twice as Wicked, the standalone "prequel" to Lady Gone Wicked. While Twice as Wicked primarily focused on the blossoming relationship between Alice and Nathaniel, it also introduced the tumultuous, scandalous love affair between Alice and Nathaniel's respective twins - Adelaide and Nicholas. Therefore, when I caught wind that Lady Gone Wicked would focus on them, I couldn't wait to dive in. I hoped a happy ending was in store! 

The result? I did in fact receive my happily ever after; however, the story wasn't nearly as charming and addictive as its predecessor. 

My first problem involved Adelaide and Nicholas. From what I saw in Twice As Wicked, I figured I would have no problem loving them. Unfortunately, that wasn't the case here. I found both to be rather bland. I knew that Adelaide was supposed to be strong, daring, and quick witted, but I just never truly felt it. She seemed more a woman who couldn't make up her mind. I especially couldn't stand how she strung Nicholas around. Yes, in some ways he did deserve it, but in other ways, she ended up being just as guilty as him. Nicholas I liked slightly more - there was something deliciously rakish about him - but again I just couldn't connect. He seemed very one dimensional, and I wish it would've have been easier to "feel" his feelings rather than just be told them.  

The plot in Lady Gone Wicked mainly focuses on Adelaide and Nicholas' reunion as well as their return to their respective families. At first, I found both story lines to be interesting. The first scene in particular held a lot of promise, and I also liked catching up with previous characters, but the more the book went on, the more I began to loose interest. I wanted more action, more passion, more tension - I wanted to feel, to be excited. Ultimately I wanted it to be more like Twice as Wicked. 

Overall, while Lady Gone Wicked does provide a satisfying conclusion to Adelaide and Nicholas' arc as well as Alice and Nathaniel's, it left something to be desired. Maybe I had too high of hopes considering how much I adored the prequel, but something here just didn't work for me. 

2 stars!!

Books I Could Re-read Forever (Top Ten Tuesday)

Top Ten Tuesday was created by The Broke and Bookish, but it's currently hosted by Jana at That Artsy Reader Girl. Join in on the fun here! 

This week's topic is books I could re-read forever. 

 I don't often re-read books (so many books, so little time!!). Truth be told there's actually only one I constantly re-read (Just Listen by Sarah Dessen!), but if I could find the time here's the ones I would choose: 

Skipping a Beat by Sarah Pekkanen: I'm a diehard Sarah Pekkanen fan, and while this was the first book I ever read by her, it's remained my number one favorite over the years. It's not a happy book, it pulls your heart and emotions in a million different directions, but it's SO WORTH IT.

Shatter Me by Tahereh Mafi: I read this book back when it was first released in 2011 and really enjoyed it, but I never continued with the series. I'm hoping to remedy this soon! 

Cracked Up to Be by Courtney Summers: Anything and everything Courtney Summer writes deserves to be read and re-read. Her first book, though, is my favorite. I don't remember much about it, but I remember loving it. 

Wanderlove by Kristen Hubbard: KRISTEN'S WRITING IS SO GORGEOUS!! And the descriptions in this book? STUNNING. It brought out the travel bug in me. The romance was also on-point. 

Going Too Far by Jennifer Echols: This book may have been released almost ten years ago, but it's still one of my go-to suggestions for readers who love YA contemporary. 

Graceling by Kristen Cashore: I remember being so reluctant to read this book, but then I finally gave in and was BLOWN AWAY! Definitely need to find the time to re-read this as well as the other ones in the series. 

Perfect Chemistry by Simone Elkes: I was SO OBSESSED with this series back in high school, and I get all giddy and happy just thinking back to it now. The Fuentes brothers are the prime example of swoon worthy, and Simone's book trailers for these were perfection. Corny? Yes, but also enjoyable! 

Bite Me! by Melissa Franics: This one and its sequel (Love Sucks!) are such fun, feel-good books, and I remember the romance being good as well. 

As You Wish by Jackson Pierce: Another feel-good, romance-y type book and it also involves a genie and wishes so basically I'm still obsessed. 

Pretty Crooked by Elisa Ludwig: Another case of read-and-loved-the-first-book-but-never-finished-the-series. This one is a modern day Robin Hood, and I remember it being funny & fast paced. 

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Have you read any of these? What are some books you'd like to re-read? Or ones you re-read all the time? Let me know in the comments! 

Review: The Calculus of Change by Jessie Hilb

Synopsis/Cover Image from Publisher's Website: 

A poignant and empowering teen novel of grief, unrequited love, and finding comfort in one's own skin.

Aden isn't looking for love in her senior year. She's much more focused on things like getting a solo gig at Ike's and keeping her brother from illegal herbal recreation. But when Tate walks into Calculus class wearing a yarmulke and a grin, Aden's heart is gone in an instant.

The two are swept up in a tantalizingly warm friendship, complete with long drives with epic soundtracks and deep talks about life, love, and spirituality. With Tate, Aden feels closer to her mom—and her mom's faith—than she has since her mother died years ago. Everyone else—even Aden's brother and her best friend—can see their connection, but does Tate?

Navigating uncertain romance and the crises of those she loves, Aden must decide how she chooses to see herself and how to honor her mom’s memory.

Review: 

Confession time: I'm a huge math nerd. When I was in high school and college, I would use math problems as a way to relax. There's just something so magical about the way numbers come together.

Therefore, when I discovered Jessie Hilb's THE CALCULUS OF CHANGE, a 2018 debut that involved a character that loved math (i.e. a girl after my own heart!), I knew I had to have it! Going into THE CALCULUS OF CHANGE I was expecting a sweet, cutesy romance; however, that's not exactly what I received. Instead, THE CALCULUS OF CHANGE was much more gritty, focusing on grief, change, complex relationships, student/teacher relationships, self image, and even teen pregnancy. In some ways, it worked well, and in other ways it didn't work at all.

At its heart, THE CALCULUS OF CHANGE is a coming-of-age. It primarily focus on Aden's growth over the course of her senior year as well as the numerous obstacles she faces and relationships she cultivates along the way.

When THE CALCULUS OF CHANGE starts, one this is clear: Aden hasn't been the same since her mother passed away. She feels incredibly responsible for her family's wellbeing, and she craves the guidance and love that only a mother figure can offer.

Aden's situation is heartbreaking. If there's one girl who needs a huge hug, it's definitely Aden. Over the course of the book, Aden struggles with balancing her responsibilities as well as making time for herself. She knows she doesn't have to be the one to take care of her family as well as her friends, but she does so regardless. She's the constant shoulder to cry on as well as the girl to help clean up after a mess. Over the course of the book, Aden begins to let go - she lets her brother and father clean up their own messes and lets her best friend make her own decisions. It's hard for her, but at the same time, its vital. I loved the growth that came with this. Aden slowly becomes stronger as well as more decisive, standing up for herself along the way.

I will say that I enjoyed the focus on relationships here. Jessie includes a variety of important ones: daughter and father, sister and brother, best friends, etc. It was interesting to see how each played a part in Aden's overall life, and I especially liked the introspection that came with each. I thought the unrequited love one was especially well done. It was incredibly bittersweet, and while I didn't like the love interest for the majority of the book, I think the relationship was important for the overall feel.

Now for the bad. As mentioned above, Jessie Hilb sets out to accomplish a lot in THE CALCULUS OF CHANGE, and while I appreciated her determination, the plot and character development suffered as a result. There was A LOT going on here: grief, change, complex relationships, student/teacher relationships, self image, and even teen pregnancy. My head was reeling at times, especially when it came to keeping each storyline straight. The storyline involving Aden's best friend lacked the most development, in my opinion. Honestly, I felt that it was introduced as a shock factor, and I hated that so little time was spent on the fall-out as well as the consequences. Also, I didn't like how some things were swept under the rug. Yes, they sometimes had a conclusion, but it was almost too easy of a conclusion in some respects.

Overall, THE CALCULUS OF CHANGE wasn't what I had expected. In some ways, THE CALCULUS OF CHANGE worked well and other ways it feel short, which was disappointing given the potential it contained.

So do I recommend it? Sort of. I think other YA books cover these topics better; however, I still think fans of gritty, emotionally charged YA may like this.

3 stars

The Calculus of Change is now out! 

Source: eARC provided by publisher 

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Stacking the Shelves/Sunday Post (33)

Stacking the Shelves is hosted by Tynga's Reviews and focuses on new books that were received/bought/borrowed this week while the Sunday Post is hosted by the Caffeinated Book Reviewer and focuses on recapping your week. 

New Books: 

For Review: 

Stay Sweet by Siobhan Vivian 

Much thanks goes to Simon and Schuster! 

From Giveaway: 

Let's Talk About Love by Claire Kann 

Thanks BookishFirst & SwoonReads! 

From Library: 

The Hazel Wood by Melissa Albert 

Books Read this Week: 

(a.k.a. the week I read all Entangled Romances. No regrets!) 

Cinderella & the Geek by Christina Phillips: Very cute & perfect for fans of Meg Cabot's rom-coms. It took a while for the characters to grow on me, but once I got to about 25% I was hooked. Look out for my review next week!

Straight Up Irish by Magan Vernon: THIS GAVE ME ALL THE FEELS. I expected to like it but never did I expect to love it as much as I did. I can't wait for the next two brothers to get their own book & romance! 

Baby on the Bad Boy's Doorstep by Victoria James: Sweet & short. I loved the hero.

A Baby for the Billionaire by Victoria Davies: Friends-to-lovers trope, which I always love, AND an adorable baby named Hunter...I was hooked to say the least!  

The Millionaire's Gamble by Sarah Ballance: Enjoyed this one way more than I expected! 

Taken by the CEO (The Scandalous Wentworths #1) by Stefanie London: White lies, false identities, and a swoon-worthy hero! 

This Week's Posts: 

Monday: Review for Haven by Mary Lindsey 

Tuesday: Review for Deborah Schaumberg's The Tombs. 

Wednesday: Blog Tour for I Stop Somewhere by TE Carter. Check out my review & a GIVEAWAY!

Thursday: Review for Glass Town by Steven Savile 

Friday: Blog Tour for Devil's Gold by Amanda McKinney. Check out my review & a GIVEAWAY! 

Saturday: Mini Reviews for A Baby for the Billionaire, Baby on the Bad Boy's Doorstep, & The Penthouse Pack

Life Update: 

How is it already the weekend? This week FLEW by! Not to mention it's almost March! This week was quick but good. We had unusually warm temps on Wednesday - 80!!- and I was in HEAVEN. I broke out my flip flops because I just couldn't resist - you have to take advantage of warm days, especially when they happen in February. But by Thursday we were back to rain & low 40s :( 

I can't wait to read Stay Sweet. It's been so long since I've read a book by Siobhan. I'm also excited/nervous to see if I love or hate The Hazel Wood. I'm hoping for love, but we'll see. 

The one thing that blew my mind this week, though, was the accident that occurred in the tunnel on the PA turnpike. A electrical conduit smashed a windshield and killed the driver. I drive through that tunnel about 4-6 times a month - I even drove through it this past Monday - so it's unsetting to say the least. Crazy how these things can happen. 

Anyhow, have a great week everyone! 

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Mini-Reviews: A Baby for the Billionaire, Baby on the Bad Boy’s Doorstep, & The Penthouse Pack

A Baby for the Billionaire by Victoria Davies

Release Date: February 12, 2018
Publisher: Entangled: Indulgence
Genre: Adult, Romance
Source: ARC provided by publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review
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Walker Beckett is a man ready for anything. He’s a CEO, self-made billionaire, and fazed by nothing. Until a tiny bundle that cries and does…other things he's not equipped to deal with at all shows up on his doorstep. So he calls his best friend, Clara Anderson, who always has the answers. She’s beautiful, smart, and never afraid to put him in his place.

Clara’s job has her busier than ever and she really can’t handle one more thing on her plate. Only this particular thing is a baby…Walker's baby. Like always, he needs her. And, like always, she can’t say no to him. This time, though, it isn't a problem they can solve over a bottle of wine.

Seeing Walker take on the role of father is doing strange things to her. But she’s not about to risk her friendship—or her heart—especially since Walker doesn’t intend to ever settle down.

Review:

A baby, a billionaire, and a friends-to-lovers romance? It can't get much better than that, my friends! 

A Baby for the Billionaire is a steamy yet sweet romance that had me dedicated from the first page until the very last. Victoria did a fantastic job of building up the romance as well as the main characters in general. I found both Clara and Walker to be likable and relatable. Clara was sassy yet kind. The way she was with baby Hunter melted my heart. There were so many times that I wished the baby was hers - she just loved the little guy so much. I also liked that Victoria included a strong friendship for Clara as well. Her best friend/boss was crass yet lovable, and the way she had the tendency to call out both Clara and Walker for being ridiculous always had me in stitches. The phone call in particular was a favorite of mine. Walker, on the other hand, is the typical billionaire - slightly self-obessed, a workaholic, and a commitment-phobe. However, once baby Hunter comes into the picture, Walker does a 180. It wasn't the fastest or easiest of transitions, but it was so easy to see how much he loved his child as well as Clara. The majority of the book focuses on adapting to a new life as well as romance. I really enjoyed the romance here. I liked that Clara and Walker had a back history in the form of their college years, and what I liked even more was how well they meshed together. The banter, the co-parenting, the almost-kisses....everything was beyond perfect. While I did think the ending was slightly dramatic - what I had predicted from page 1 came true - I still ate it up. Sometimes drama is so worth it. 

Overall, A Baby for the Billionaire is yet another slam-dunk for Entangled's Indulgence line. I can't wait to read more by Victoria Davies in the future! 

3.5 stars!!

Baby on the Bad Boy’s Doorstep by Victoria James

Release Date: February 12, 2018
Publisher: Entangled: Indulgence
Genre: Adult, Romance
Source: ARC provided by publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review
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Connor O'Leary knows nothing about babies, families, or good women, yet he's up to his ears in all three. Coming to Shadow Creek, Montana was meant to be a new start for this former oil rigger, but he had no idea that fresh beginning would include a baby on his doorstep and a hot nanny he can't stop thinking about. Diapers, feedings, and late nights soothing his little bundle of surprise were definitely not on his itinerary.

The last thing Haley Thomson expected to see is the reclusive Connor with a baby in his arms. Before she knows it, she's volunteered as nanny—temporarily. Helping out with baby Rosie is a dream come true and fills a space in her heart she believed will never be filled. But falling for Rosie's hot and sexy bachelor daddy is not on her to-do list…but boy would she ever like it to be...

Review:

Baby on the Bad Boy's Doorstep is the forth (standalone) book in the Shadow Creek, Montana series. I've only read the first one, Christmas with the Sheriff, and I really enjoyed it so I was looking forward to catching up with old characters while meeting new ones. 

Baby on the Bad Boy's Doorstep was emotional as well as heartwarming - the perfect book to pair with a snowy afternoon and a hot cup of coffee/tea! It features two POVs - Connor O'Leary and Haley Thompson. Connor and Haley are both dealing with their own respective demons. Haley's trying to find herself again after an abusive marriage while Connor is coming to terms with being a unexpected single father. I found both to be likable but I will admit that I liked Connor a lot more than I liked Haley. Connor was tough on the outside, but deep down he was the ultimate sweetheart. I loved reading from his POV. At the start of the book, Connor is terrified; however, as the book progressed Connor became such an amazing father. I also liked seeing him come to terms with past while also learning to open up again. On the other hand, Haley was kind as well as compassionate, but sometimes I felt that she was a bit naive. I couldn't believe she was so willing to move in with a guy she barely knew - one that also didn't seem to like her all that much. It felt risky, but the more I got to know Haley, the more I realized she acted with her heart - she wanted to put love and happiness back into the world, especially for people who didn't seem to have it, and I appreciated that. The plot of Baby on the Bad Boy's Doorstep focused primarily on Baby Rosie, the developing feelings between Connor and Haley, and the variety of other issues they encountered along the way. I loved any scene having to deal with little Rosie - she was ADORABLE and slightly feisty. I also liked that Victoria spent time developing Connor and Haley's pasts. It brought a greater level of understanding to their actions, and I also appreciated seeing how far they've truly come. 

Overall, Baby on the Bad Boy's Doorstep was a quick, charming read. I'm curious to see if Victoria will continue this series. The turn of events at the end had me thinking yes. 

3.5 stars!!

The Penthouse Pack by Cathryn Fox
Release Date: February 12, 2018

Publisher: Entangled: Indulgence
Genre: Adult, Romance
Source: ARC provided by publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review
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Billionaire software developer Parker Braxton knows everyone wants something from him. That's why he made a multi-million-dollar bachelor pact with his friends to never marry. But he never counted on running into, literally, the quiet but sensual Layla Fallon.

Layla isn't afraid of hard work. Still, there is no light at the end of her student-loan tunnel. When Stuck-Up Suit—Parker Braxton—accidentally runs her over, it's the last things she needs. She refuses his help, but he's persistent. He’s also handsome, kinder than she ever expected, and she’s doing her best to ignore her attraction. Which is harder than it sounds when she’s recuperating at his penthouse.

Sparks fly. Hearts flutter. But falling for Layla could cost Parker more than just several million dollars.

Review:

Cathryn Fox's The Penthouse Pack wasn't my favorite billionaire book by Entangled, but I still found it to be a fun and easy read. 

The Penthouse Pack features two POVs - Parker Braxton and Layla Fallon. Layla is a college student struggling with loans and rent. She's strong and independent, which I liked, but I couldn't always handle her temper. She was hotheaded, headstrong and so, so unwilling to accept help of any kind, especially when it came to Parker helping her. There were so many times I wanted to yell just accept the help. I mean, the man hit her with a car the least he could do is provide a hospital and doctor. Over the course of the book she slightly grew on me, but still I just didn't like her all that much. I found Parker to be much more likable. Sexy as well as brooding, Parker had my heart from the get-go. He has a tough exterior like most alpha males, but deep down he has a heart of gold, which was evident in his dealings with his mother and Layla. The romance here brought the heat, but it didn't always capture my full attention. I think part of this had to do with Layla, as it was hard to fully get behind their relationship when I didn't find her likable. I did enjoy the tiny subplot focusing on Parker's parents. Those two I would love to learn more about! 

Overall, I loved the hero here, but the heroine left something to be desired. A solid three star read for sure. 

3 stars!! 

Blog Tour: Devil's Gold by Amanda McKinney (Review & Giveaway!)

Devil’s Gold

Amanda McKinney

Publication date: February 13th 2018

Genres: Adult, Mystery, Thriller

Despite being chronically late, occasionally disheveled and a tad disorganized, Dixie Knight is one of the top private investigators in the country, and when a young woman goes missing in the small, Southern town of Devil’s Den, Dixie takes the case. She expected it to be another ordinary missing person case—until Lizzie Meyers is found naked and beaten to death at a local, seedy motel.

While visiting relatives on his two-week leave, Marine Liam Cash bumps into Dixie at the local bar, and his attraction to her is immediate. When Liam connects Dixie’s current case to two unsolved murders in his hometown, he steps in to help find the killer, and keep her safe, whether Dixie wants him to or not.

After another woman is found brutally beaten, Dixie turns the town upside down trying to solve the mystery—could it be the rumored witch that lives in the mountains; the rich, neurotic doctor’s wife; or the perky, blonde receptionist at the local medical clinic?

Time is running out and Dixie knows she has to put the pieces of the puzzle together before another body turns cold in Devil’s Den.

Review:

DEVIL'S GOLD truly managed to surprise me! Going into it I expected to like it. I'm a sucker for a good mystery; however, I never expected to like it as much as I did. Combining a page-turning mystery, a feisty, sarcastic main character, and even a touch of romance, DEVIL'S GOLD proves just how enchanting a novella can be. 

DEVIL'S GOLD introduces Dix, a private investigator at her family's Black Rose Investigations. Dix has always been the black sheep of her family. Constantly late, occasionally crass, preferring casual to fancy, she doesn't exactly fit in well with her sisters. However, given her her superior sleuthing skills, it doesn't seem to matter. I loved Dix from the get-go. Amanda did a fantastic job of capturing her voice, and honestly, it was just so much fun to see into Dix's head. I loved her observations, her sleuthing skills, etc. Plus, she's someone who constantly gets herself into trouble due to her head strong ways, which was funny to read about. 

Given DEVIL'S GOLD novella length, I was slightly worried the mystery wouldn't be well developed. However, that wasn't the case at all. Amanda presented an exciting whodunit here, and I loved the surprising twists and turns it constantly took. In addition to the mystery, a little swoony romance is included as well! The dynamic between Dix and Liam was chemistry laden. I enjoyed the back-and-forth banter. I also liked that Liam was a man of mystery. At first, I couldn't tell if he was going to be a good guy or a bad guy. 

The writing in DEVIL'S GOLD was on point. The story flowed well, and I liked how Amanda incorporated different POVs. It's fun to see someone else's perspective at times. 

Overall, DEVIL'S GOLD is perfect for fans of mystery! My only complaint? I wish I had the second once ready as soon as I finished this! I need to know what trouble Dix and Liam get into next!

Goodreads / Amazon

Author Bio:

Amanda McKinney, author of Sexy, Suspenseful Mysteries wrote her debut novel, LETHAL LEGACY, after walking away from her career to become a writer and stay-at-home mom. When Amanda isn’t tending to her two beautiful boys, she’s hidden behind her computer screen crafting page-turning murder mysteries, peppered with titillating love scenes. Having been born and raised in the south, Amanda’s books are set in small, country towns and reflect southern culture at its finest.

Amanda’s debut novel, LETHAL LEGACY, was released in January 2017, followed by the first two books in the BERRY SPRINGS SERIES, THE WOODS and THE LAKE. The third book in the series, THE STORM is scheduled to be released in the Winter of 2017.

Website / Goodreads / Facebook

GIVEAWAY!

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Review: Glass Town by Steven Savile

Synopsis/Cover Image from Publisher's Website:

There's always been magic in our world We just needed to know where to look for it

In 1924, two brothers both loved Eleanor Raines, a promising young actress from the East End of London. She disappeared during the filming of Alfred Hitchcock’s debut, Number 13, which itself is now lost. It was the crime of the age, capturing the imagination of the city: the beautiful actress never seen again, and the gangster who disappeared the same day.

Generations have passed. Everyone involved is long dead. But even now their dark, twisted secret threatens to tear the city apart.

Joshua Raines is about to enter a world of macabre beauty, of glittering celluloid and the silver screen, of illusion and deception, of impossibly old gangsters and the fiendish creatures they command, and most frighteningly of all, of genuine magic.

He is about to enter Glass Town.

The generations-old obsession with Eleanor Raines’s unsolved case is about to become his obsession, handed down father-to-son through his bloodline like some unwanted inheritance. But first he needs to bury his grandfather and absorb the implications of the confession in his hand, a letter from one of the brothers, Isaiah, claiming to have seen the missing actress. The woman in the red dress hadn’t aged a day, no matter that it was 1994 and she’d been gone seventy years.

Long buried secrets cannot stay secrets forever. Hidden places cannot stay hidden forever.

The magic that destroyed one of the most brutal families in London’s dark history is finally failing, and Joshua Raines is about to discover that everything he dared dream of, everything he has ever feared, is waiting for him in Glass Town.

Review:

When Steven Savile's Glass Town appeared on my doorstep it was my first time hearing about it; however, as soon as I read the synopsis, I decided it may be the book for me and dove right in. 

The Result? Glass Town has left me feeling incredibly torn. On one side I enjoyed it. I found the premise unique, the mystery multilayered and suspenseful, and the characters complex. On the other side, however, it was too odd for my liking. Some parts left me flabbergasted and even churned my stomach. 

Eleanor Raines.
That was her name.
My obsession.
The object of my desire. I was going to say affection, but there was nothing remotely affectionate about it. Desire is a much better word. Less wholesome. Desire speaks of dark places, of yearning, sweat. - pg. 1 

Glass Town is built upon obsession as well as desire. 

Obsession can be a dangerous thing - it can cause you to lose your grip on reality as well as your friends and family. There's something about it, however. Something you just can't resist. That's what Isaiah and his brother Seth discovered over 90 years ago in their respective quests for Eleanor Raines's love and attention. With obsession there's a winner as well as a loser, and Isaiah unfortunately lost; however, he never gave up and passed that obsession - that compulsion - to find Eleanor to generation after generation. 

It amazed me how much Steven Saville could build upon two men's desires. He brought along mystery, the supernatural, and magic with it. The later of the three truly managed to fascinate me. I've also been curious about magic and the illusions a magician creates. The illusion in Glass Town is more complex than you'd ever imagine, and it shocked me how deep it ran. Additionally, throughout Glass Town I had so many questions: Where had they hidden Eleanor? How does one get into Glass Town? What was Seth's end game? Would Josh survive? These questions kept me hooked, turning page after page in search of answers. At sometimes I couldn't believe that so many events could be based on one person - someone who "existed" over 100 years ago. Was she really worth it? However, I guess, that's the crazy thing about obsession - it doesn't depend on worth but desire. 

Glass Town never settles on one POV. Over the course of the book a variety of POVs are introduced -  Seth, Josh, Damiola, Julie, Taff, and Gideon. While each character comes from different backgrounds each are connected through obsession. For Seth, the man who started it all, his obsession with Eleanor may just break him. Seth is the ultimate villain. He's frightening as well as chilling and he always plays dirty. Josh, the great-grandson of Isaiah, is obsessed with solving the case, no matter at what cost. Josh's obsession was almost as large as Seth's, which I found surprising at time given the short timeline. I will say, however, that no character was incredibly well developed, nor did I ever truly forge a connection with any of them. 

Overall, Glass Town is a book I liked but didn't love. Some parts just didn't appeal to me; however, there was something about it that kept me reading. I suggest this to fans of magic and illusion. 

3 stars!! 

Glass Town is now available!

Source: Hardcover provided by publisher for review

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Buy Links: 

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Author Links: 

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Blog Tour: I Stop Somewhere by TE Carter (Review & Giveaway!!)

I Stop Somewhere

by T.E. Carter

Publisher: Feiwel & Friends

Release Date: February 27, 2018

Genre: Young Adult, Contemporary
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Amazon | BN | Book Depository | Kobo | IndieBound | iBooks 

Synopsis:

Ellie Frias disappeared long before she vanished.

Tormented throughout middle school, Ellie begins her freshman year with a new look: she doesn't need to be popular; she just needs to blend in with the wallpaper.

But when the unthinkable happens, Ellie finds herself trapped after a brutal assault. She wasn't the first victim, and now she watches it happen again and again. She tries to hold on to her happier memories in order to get past the cold days, waiting for someone to find her.

The problem is, no one searches for a girl they never noticed in the first place.

TE Carter's stirring and visceral debut not only discusses and dismantles rape culture, but it also reminds us what it is to be human.

Review: 

This isn't a story of great romance or true love. It's simply a story of being lonely and how comforting it is to be called beautiful. - Loc 661, eARC 

I Stop Somewhere isn't an easy read. 

It's not light nor fluffy. 

It won't make you laugh and swoon.

It's heartbreaking.

It's gut-punching. 

It will make you question everything you know about growing up as well as the morals and ideals that are installed in us since birth. 

It will make you remember the days you felt like Ellie Frias growing up - sad, lonely, equal parts hopeful and hopeless. 

It will make you cry. 

It will make you want to scream. 

But it will inspire you - inspire you to be better, to fight for those like Ellie, to believe in a girl's act of courage. 

I Stop Somewhere is an unforgettable, poignant debut, and I can't possibly give it the justice it deserves. However, I'll try my best.

It takes a lot of things to make a girl, but breaking her? It only takes a few pretty words and a crooked smile. - Loc 358, eARC 

I Stop Somewhere introduces Ellie Frias. Ellie has always felt unremarkable as well as plain. She's never been the one to have a surplus of friends, and she can't remember a time when a boy paid attention to her. So when a boy appears that calls her beautiful and makes her feel special, Ellie drops everything. She sneaks out, she lies to her dad, she lets the parts of her that made her Ellie fade away.

From the first page, I was enamored with Ellie's narrative. It was raw as well as emotional. I wanted to give Ellie a hug. I wanted to protect her and shield her from boys with throwaway promises and girls out for blood. When the story first begins, Ellie is quiet and lonely. She's sick and tired of being sick and tired, and I could understand that. I could even relate. I think everyone's been at that place growing up, the one where they feel that they'll never start living, that they'll never have the fulfilling life the books and movies promise. As the book progresses, Ellie becomes changed, and not always for the better. It broke my heart to see Ellie's downfall occur, and while I knew it wasn't going to have a happy ending, I held out hope that something would turn around, that something would "save" Ellie. TE Carter also does something interesting here - she includes future Ellie's voice. Future Ellie is wise and I valued her reflections on that monumental year; however, a part of me wondered throughout where future Ellie was. It was mysterious as well as a tad ominous.

People don't debate what defines murder. Politicians don't argue the body's ability to fight off being killed. There's no talk of a "murder culture." No one says that you asked for murder. What you wear doesn't excuse being killed. - Loc 1419, 1428, eARC 

I Stop Somewhere tackles a lot of hard topics - rape culture, self-esteem, the ups and downs of growing up, and even a trial involving sexual assault. TE does an amazing job of fleshing everything out. Never once did I feel like the story was lacking, that it needed more details. What I appreciated the most, however, was how TE addressed rape culture. There's an pivotal scene in the book where Ellie compares rape culture to murder. Her thoughts are accurate - so accurate in fact it hurt. No one blames the victim when it comes to murder; however, when it comes to rape, everyone jumps on the blame train. It's disgusting, and I hope that books like TE Carter's will inspire people to think about this more deeply, for asking for more when it comes to the safety of their daughters, their friends, their nieces, etc.

In all, I Stop Somewhere is beautifully written addition to YA contemporary. I can't suggest it highly enough - it's a book that NEEDS to be read as well as discussed. Make sure you have a box of tissues on hand when starting it, though, because it will make you cry, no ifs about it.

When you ask what makes a girl, they tell you it's sugar and spice and everything nice, but it's not. It's regret and wishing and summer kisses and falling in love and being hurt and heartbreak and fear and fishing with your father and wearing the wrong clothes and getting drunk because you feel so bad you want to die. It's hoping and the memory of sunlight and how you can't stop lightbulbs from burning out. It's all the big things and the little things in between. - Loc 3601, eARC  

About the Author:

TE Carter was born in New England and has lived in New England for pretty much her entire life. Throughout her career, she’s done a lot of things, although her passion has always been writing. When she’s not writing, she can generally be found reading classic literature, playing Xbox, organizing her comic collection, or binge watching baking competitions. She continues to live in New England with her husband and their two cats.

Website | Goodreads 

Giveaway:

Prize: 1 hardcover copy of I STOP SOMEWHERE by T.E. Carter (US Only)

Starts: 2/19

Ends: 3/9

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Tour Schedule:

February 19th

Pink Polka Dot Books- Welcome Post

February 20th

JustAddAWord- Review & Favorite Quotes

Never Too Many To Read- Review

FANNA- Review

A Bookish Abode- Review

February 21st

Lauren's Crammed Bookshelf- Review

Blushing Bibliophile- Review

Here's to Happy Endings- Review

Storybook Slayers- Review & Favorite Quotes

February 22nd

Reading to Unwind- Review

A Thousand Words A Million Books- Review & Favorite Quotes

Confessions of a YA Reader- Promo

Reading for the Stars and Moon- Review

February 23rd

Vicky Who Reads- Review/Creative Post

We Live and Breathe Books- Review & Favorite Quotes

Belle's Book Blog- Review

Hauntedbybooks13- Review

Review: The Tombs by Deborah Schaumberg

The Tombs by Deborah Schaumberg

Release Date: February 20, 2018 

Publisher: HarperTeen   

Genre: YA, Historical, Fantasy 

Source: ARC was provided by the publisher via Edelweiss in exchange for an honest review

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New York, 1882. A dark, forbidding city, and no place for a girl with unexplainable powers.

Deborah Schaumberg’s gripping debut takes readers on a breathless trip across a teeming turn-of-the-century New York and asks the question: Where can you hide in a city that wants you buried?

Sixteen-year-old Avery Kohl pines for the life she had before her mother was taken. She fears the mysterious men in crow masks who locked her mother in the Tombs asylum for being able to see what others couldn’t.

Avery denies the signs in herself, focusing instead on her shifts at the ironworks factory and keeping her inventor father out of trouble. Other than listening to secondhand tales of adventure from her best friend, Khan, an ex-slave, and caring for her falcon, Seraphine, Avery spends her days struggling to survive.

Like her mother’s, Avery’s powers refuse to be contained. When she causes a bizarre explosion at the factory, she has no choice but to run from her lies, straight into the darkest corners of the city.

Avery must embrace her abilities and learn to wield their power—or join her mother in the cavernous horrors of the Tombs. And the Tombs has secrets of its own: strange experiments are being performed on “patients”...and no one knows why.

Review:

Deborah Schaumberg's The Tombs first landed on my radar because of its stunning cover. Then I read the synopsis and a decision was made: I needed it and pronto! As it turns out, The Tombs is a magical and rich debut. It's hard not to become completely enthralled by Avery's journey as well as rooting for her every step of the way. 

There's many things Deborah does well here; however, one of the best is the descriptions. It was so incredibly easy to be transported to New York City, 1882. I could picture Avery's world perfectly - the factory, her apartment, the tombs, etc. The tombs actually offered one of my favorite settings: a greenhouse where Avery discovers more answers to her problems! The greenhouse was so cool. I wish it was real so I could go and visit it. 

Additionally, Deborah did a fantastic job of fleshing out the story lines. I'll admit this isn't the most fast paced book ever. Deborah takes her time building up the world as well as Avery's past and current struggles; however, I was never once bothered by the speed. I eagerly ate up the descriptions, and I loved getting to know Avery better. More importantly, when things did speed up, I felt prepared. I knew what was going on - and had some very big questions!-and I couldn't wait to see Avery kick butt! 

Avery, the main character here, was likable and easy to root for. When the book first begins, Avery has grown use to blending into the background. It's easier for both her father and her that way; however, while Avery may be quiet, she's no pushover by any means. She's strong and powerful, more so than she even thinks. The scenes were she helped her fellow factory workers pulled at my heartstrings. Avery would risk anything for their safety, and that made her even more lovable in my opinion. Additionally, over the course of the book Avery's experiences a coming-of-age. She wants to get to the bottom of her mother's illness, Avery wants to know if she's like her. This brings about many struggles: between Avery and her father, between Avery and her best friend/trusted companion, and even between Avery and herself. It was interesting to see her face this struggle - should she leave it all alone or challenge everything - and I was very happy with the end result. 

Now for the one thing that dropped The Tombs down a star: the romance. There's two potential love interests - Avery's best friend & the boy Avery shared a kiss with years ago. Normally, love triangles don't bother me, but I just didn't like it here. I thought Avery's best friend was the better choice; however, she constantly felt drawn to this boy she knew almost nothing about (cue insta-love). It just didn't work for me - I wanted more for Avery, I wanted more for her best friend.

Regardless, The Tombs is a wonderful debut, perfect for YA readers who love their historical fiction with a touch of fantasy and magic. I can't wait to see where Deborah goes next. I'm personally hoping for a sequel! 

4 stars!! 

Review: Haven by Mary Lindsey

Synopsis/Cover Image from Publisher's Website:

Rain Ryland has never belonged anywhere. He’s used to people judging him for his rough background, his intimidating size, and now, his orphan status. He’s always been on the outside, looking in, and he’s fine with that. Until he moves to New Wurzburg and meets Friederike Burkhart.

Freddie isn’t like normal teen girls, though. And someone wants her dead for it. Freddie warns he’d better stay far away if he wants to stay alive, but Rain’s never been good at running from trouble. For the first time, Rain has something worth fighting for, worth living for. Worth dying for.

Review: 

For the past few months I've been hearing non-stop good things about Mary Lindsey's Haven, and even though I had a copy I was hesitant to start it. I was worried that I wouldn't like it as much as everyone else.

As it turns out, I shouldn't have had a worry in the world, because Haven is AMAZING! Seriously, I should've listened to the everyone and read it sooner! 

Haven is told through Rain's POV. I tend to have a love-hate relationship with male POVs; however, in this situation I really enjoyed it. I thought Mary did a fantastic job of capturing the voice of a teenage boy. It seemed realistic as well as authentic. 

It also didn't hurt that I loved Rain from the moment he was introduced. Rain is confident as well as tough and maybe just a tad bit arrogant. He's never had the easiest life; however, with Aunt Ruby he's been given a second chance, one he hopes he won't screw up. His relationship with Aunt Ruby warmed my heart. They had such a natural, easy-going aunt-nephew relationship, and I loved seeing them form their own makeshift family. Additionally, I loved Rain but I think I loved Freddie even more. Freddie is 100% her own person - she does want she wants, says what she wants, and doesn't worry about the consequences. Her sarcastic tone won me over. I especially loved how FINALLY we have the girl calling the boy a ridiculous nickname. In this case, she called Rain "sprinkles" and it made me laugh every single time. I liked the variety of other side characters introduced as well. Also just throwing this out there: I would do almost anything for a book about Petra. I feel like she has a lot of good stories to tell. 

Haven contains one of my favorite things: a mysterious small town. Mary did such a great job of setting the scene. I found it easy to picture New Wurzburg. I also liked how it was a town with a lot of secrets. Everyone seemed like they had something to hide. Additionally, the town itself gave a creepy feel. I was constantly on the edge of my seat, dying to know what was lurking in the shadows. 

The plot in Haven is fast-paced and twisty. I especially enjoyed the supernatural edge to it. I won't say what supernatural beings are involved; however, I will say that their world is incredibly well developed. Additionally, I liked how nicely everything came together. There were so many times at which I chalked up a weird event to be nothing, but later on I realized it was essential to what was happening. It blew my mind time and time again and kept me coming back for more. There were so many times at which Mary completely threw me for a loop. 

Last but not least: the romance. Freddie and Rain had such great chemistry. I loved how they pushed and pulled at each other's buttons, especially at the beginning. Rain was determined to win Freddie over. There was also no insta-love feel to it, which is always a major win in my opinion. 

Reminiscent of Beautiful Creatures, Mary Lindsay's Haven weaves together an enthralling supernatural mystery. I can't wait to see what Havoc (book #2) brings! 

4.5 stars!!

Haven is now out!

Source: Hardcover provided by publisher for review - thanks EntangledTeen!

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