REVIEW: Obsidian by Jennifer L. Armentrout

Title: Obsidian (Lux #1)
Author: Jennifer L. Armentrout
Publisher: Entangled Teen
Published: May 8, 2012 (re-release date)
Format: Second Edition Paperback; 400 pages

Starting over sucks.

When we moved to West Virginia right before my senior year, I'd pretty much resigned myself to thick accents, dodgy internet access, and a whole lot of boring.... until I spotted my hot neighbor, with his looming height and eerie green eyes. Things were looking up.

And then he opened his mouth.

Daemon is infuriating. Arrogant. Stab-worthy. We do not get along. At all. But when a stranger attacks me and Daemon literally freezes time with a wave of his hand, well, something...unexpected happens.

The hot alien living next door marks me.

You heard me. Alien. Turns out Daemon and his sister have a galaxy of enemies wanting to steal their abilities, and Daemon's touch has me lit up like the Vegas Strip. The only way I'm getting out of this alive is by sticking close to Daemon until my alien mojo fades.

If I don't kill him first, that is.

My Review:
Obsidian by Jennifer L. Armentrout truly captured my heart and soul from the first sentence that I read and kept me hanging on every word long past the end of the book. True to every review I have read, Obsidian is one incredible and amazing book! The characters are beyond unforgettable, the storyline is engaging and the romance is gripping and heart pounding.

After the painful loss of her father three years ago, Katy and her mom move for a fresh start in a small town in West Virginia. The transition of moving to a new town is difficult for Katy, but she’s dealing with it the best she can. Katy’s always been one to keep to herself. She’s content with being in front of her laptop all day, reading and working on her blog. However, her mom encourages Katy to get out and make new friends, starting with the two teenagers who live next door. Despite her dismay, Katy goes ahead and takes her mother’s advice. Next door, she’s greeted by this beautiful boy with mesmerizing green eyes and one gorgeous bang-worthy body. All seems great until he speaks and turns out to be one big, (still sexy), jerk. From there, it’s nearly non-stop fighting for Daemon and Katy. They just can’t seem to get along and if that’s not troubling, Katy finds out that Daemon and his twin sister Dee are not from this world at all. 


Jennifer L. Armentrout is a freaking genius, a writer and story teller extraordinaire. (But you all knew that, right?) She’s a gift from the writing gods themselves because Obsidian is one explosive book. Her writing is outstanding, it’s clever and full of life. It’s the type of writing that sucks you in, grabs you, wraps around your heart and never ever lets you go no matter what you do. The words come off the page, it flows, it’s so smooth and fluid, it’s more than easy to read. Her writing is not only descriptive, it’s imaginative, it’s detailed yet simple, but oh so exuberant and you know, made of awesomesauce! The whole storyline and idea of Obsidian is more than unique and original, it’s innovative and well thought out. I’ve never really enjoyed aliens, but JLA sure changed my mind. Who knew aliens could be so cool, so hot, so damn infuriating all at once? The aliens that she brings into this story is not the usual type of aliens one conjures up in mind. These aliens are completely different and especially fascinating and not like anything I would have ever thought of. I knew that Daemon was an alien, but I just didn’t know what kind and slowly getting to know this side of him was pretty much astounding. The Luxen powers are mind blowing and so creatively developed. It’s supernatural, truly otherworldly and if I’m struck by lightening, it’s straight up dazzling. I wish I could talk more about it, but just know that JLA goes into depth about them and she’s very generous when it comes to Luxen background. I, for one, totally wouldn’t mind being a Luxen because having those type of powers described in the book makes me green with envy. I want to be able to do the things they do too! I hope to get to know more about the Luxen along with their Arum enemy counterparts in the next book because I just can’t get enough. 


I absolutely loved Katy. She was independent, intelligent, strong, fierce, and level-headed. I loved how she takes care of herself and she holds no grudge to the fact that her mom is not always around. She really holds her own and she has a wonderful relationship with her mom despite it all. I also love that she takes no crap from anyone, especially Daemon. Katy fights for what she wants and for what is right. I loved how understanding Katy was throughout the book. The revelations about Daemon and Dee were completely shocking for Katy and I thought the way she reacted was realistic. It was unbelievable to her, but she opened her mind and never once judged or turned away from Daemon or Dee. Her unwavering loyalty towards the two was inspiring. Katy had a big heart, she had morals, she was genuine and she was just one amazing character from the inside out. Not only was I able to relate to her, I connected with her on a whole other level, especially considering the fact that she is also a book blogger! I really enjoyed the blogging references that JLA added in the story. I also loved how quirky, witty and funny Katy was. The way JLA developed Katy’s character made her real; brought her to life. Katy wasn’t just any character in a book, she became like a friend that I got to know while reading Obsidian.

Katy’s relationship with Daemon is crazy and wild. They’re like cat and dog, racing around, always at war. It’s the type of love/hate relationship that kept me on edge. It’s full of tension and unwavering intensity that’s so passionate, something and somewhere is about to burst between the two. I absolutely loved how one minute they’re ready to just about kill each other and then the next, they are just so right, so perfect and so fitting for each other. Those sweet and lovely moments between Daemon and Katy are the moments that I continued to crave between the two. I loved the building tension between Daemon and Katy even if half the time I was frustrated because I wanted them to just kiss already! The anticipation of that moment was perfect and ultimately satisfying. JLA sure knows how to write a kissing scene because, oh sweet heaven, that was the best kissing scene I have ever read, ever.

The other characters in the book were also well developed, had unique personalities and were especially memorable. Of course, there is no denying my favoritism and adoration for one irritating, condescending, arrogant, pompous, self-righteous, but by god, sexy, seductive, gorgeous, devastatingly handsome and hilarious green-eyed alien named Daemon Black. I will admit it now and forevermore that I love Daemon. I love him, I love him, I love him. He sure got me all hot and bothered and I am not afraid to admit that! When he’s around, he lights up the whole room. Hell, he is the room. He’s stunning and he really brings in the attention. He has a big mouth for sure, but it’s the type of mouth that you want to kiss all day long. He’s so funny in that laugh-out-loud-clutch-your-stomach-in-pain kind of way. Sure, he’s annoyingly beautiful, but his strong personality is what makes him so damn lovable. He may be obnoxious, but he cares deeply for his sister and his overprotectiveness and willingness to sacrifice his life for his sister is breathtakingly admirable. It doesn’t hurt that Daemon is a walking, talking, breathing and living sex on a stick, oh-my-god *licks his face* type of guy. There is no reason NOT to love Daemon. He’s that bright light in all the darkness and he will definitely steal your heart and hold it hostage forever. 


Another character I surely loved was Daemon’s sister, Dee. She’s the first friend Katy makes in WV, and soon they become the best of friends. Although Daemon doesn’t approve of their friendship, I love how Dee tries her best to keep her friendship with Katy going and vice versa. Dee is wonderful all around and she’s a complete sweetheart. She’s so outgoing, talkative, kind, daring and full of energy, it’s so easy to love her. She’s the complete opposite of Daemon, but she’s awesome in many ways. I love her relationship with Daemon and even more so with Katy. She’s another reason why I loved this book and her the depth of care that she feels for Katy, a mere human, is astounding and heart-warming. I also liked Katy’s human friends, Lesa and Carissa, along with one other Luxen Adam. I hope they show up again in the next books to come. 


There is nothing that I don’t love about Obsidian. It’s one of the best books I have read and I cannot ever compare it to anything else in this world. I could go on and on about how page-gripping and extraordinary it really is, but my words could never do this book real justice. 


Obsidian is definitely a one-of-a-kind type of book. It’s fast-paced and full of never ending laughter. It’s more than fun and flirty, but entirely addicting. There is never a dull moment and there is nothing more intoxicating than this story. It’s very exciting and action-packed to the core. It’s no wonder that I am aching and dying and begging for the next book!

All in all, Obsidian is fan-freaking-tastic. <3



My Rating: 5 out of 5 stars!


Connect with Jennifer L. Armentrout:

Blog | Twitter

Purchase Obsidian:

 Amazon | B&N | Book Depository

Waiting on Wednesday #23

Waiting on Wednesday is a weekly meme hosted by Jill @ Breaking the Spine where you share an upcoming release that you're anticipating on reading.

What A Boy Needs by Nyrae Dawn

Expected Publication: June 12, 2012

From Goodreads:

Jaden Sinclair knows he'll never amount to anything...so why would he deserve a girl like Priscilla Mendoza? 

Since last summer, things have been screwed up between Jaden and Pris. He knows it's his fault, but that doesn’t stop him from wanting to go a few rounds with her new boyfriend. He also knows he’s the loser his dad calls him, but it doesn’t stop him from wanting her.

After getting a huge bomb dropped on him, Jaden lashes out and lands himself in jail. Everything in his chaotic life is turned upside down and to make it worse, his mom kicks him out in order to side with his dad. Yeah, he’s totally a prize for a girl like Pris. 

Sebastian, Aspen, and Pris are all going places in their lives...and he knows he can't keep tagging along for the ride.

The group has one last chance for The Epic Adventure they've been looking for: a road trip to New York, where Jaden's friends will be going to college. Unfortunately, the more time Jaden hangs around Pris, the harder it is to keep the carefully constructed walls between them so she doesn't find out what a train wreck he really is. 

When the trip ends, Jaden has to decide if he's ready to say goodbye to his friends, and the girl he loves. He knows what he needs, but will he be man enough to go for it?

Why I'm Waiting?

1. Companion to What A Boy Wants
I absolutely LOVED WABW like woah. So when I found out that Nyrae Dawn was writing another book centered around the characters in WABW, lets just say I screamed my head off and maybe jumped around a few times and ran around in circles too. Nyrae is an awesome writer. I love her writing so there is no wonder why I am dying dying dying to read WABN. I'll be that person staying up til midnight so I can buy it right away!  You should too ;)

2. Jaden <3
I loved Jaden in WABW. He was just so funny and amazing and silly and he had such a mysterious background I was super thrilled that WABN would be HIS story. I cannot wait to get to know more of him. His life intrigues me and he makes my heart ache with longing. I want to know what he's all about. Why he acts the way he does. Why he does what he does. Why he holds himself back. I know Jaden is a good guy, a total sweetheart and I cannot wait to see that side of him! Plus, Jaden is entirely swoon-worthy. I cannot resist his charm.

3. More Bastian.
There is no denying my love for Bastian. Yes, this is not his story, but even a glimpse of him will have to suffice. I adored him in WABW and I'm so glad he'll be showing up in WABN too. How can he not!? Any Bastian I can get, I will take. Also, him and Jaden together is bound to cause chaos and trouble and all kinds of laughs so I'm totally down for that.

4. Jaden and Pris.
I knew, I just knew that there was a little something something going on between the two in WABW. I could sniff it out a mile away! Jaden was not fooling me for even a second! I'm a big fan of Happily Ever Afters even though most of the contemp I read break my heart, I want this for Jaden and Pris. I think Jaden needs this, deserves this, and he must have it. I don't know how the story will end, but I can hope it will end with Jaden's HEA. Although if this is not the case, that is ok as well. For me, Jaden and Pris belong together and I'll be damned if I don't get to read this book the second it comes out!

5. THAT COVER.
*swoon* *dies a little*
How can you not LOVE that cover? Honestly. It's all kinds of hot hot hot. It even matches Bastian cover for chrissakes!? Yeah. That cover makes me drool. *licks* lololol. And you see that eyebrow piercing? Yeah, I want to kiss it! Kiss Jaden!!!

I may have gotten a little carried away there! LOL!
You can read my review to What A Boy Wants, here.

What are you waiting on?
Leave your WoW links in the comments below ^^

Teaser Tuesday #19

Teaser Tuesday is weekly meme hosted by MizB from Should Be Reading.

Every Last Kiss by Courtney Cole (The Bloodstone Saga #1)
Published: April 21, 2011

Leaning back into the silk cushions, she shook the snake lightly. It hissed, its large mouth yawning open ominously, revealing glistening fangs. As it stared at her, one drop of deadly venom dripped from its mouth. Nothing more. Impatient, Cleopatra shook it again. It struck her so quickly that I barely had time to register the movement before I heard her gasp.
    "It is done then," page 3

"You just saw me, very intimately I might add, this morning, my beauty." He bowed his head to kiss my forehead but that wasn't enough for me. I tilted my face and covered his soft lips with mine, hungrily wanting more of him. page 59-60

That's my teasers for this week! Hope you enjoyed. :)
Leave me your teaser links in the comments below! <3

Book Haul #23

 A book haul feature that shares items, such as books and swag, that I received within the week. 

Another slightly small book haul this week, but I'm thrilled for all the books I got! They are all amazing!

Won:

Streamline by Jennifer Lane (ebook)

*Thanks to Racquel from The Book Barbies for hosting the giveaway and thanks to the author, Jennifer Lane!

Insurgent by Veronica Roth 

Until I Die by Amy Plum

I finally got my hands on Insurgent thanks to my BF and it's even better looking in person! Also, Until I Die! Yay because I missed Vincent. Can't wait to dive into these <3

Of Poseidon by Anna Banks

Cinder by Marissa Meyer

I already read Of Poseidon and I absolutely LOVED it beyond words. I had to get a final copy. Also, I've been dying to read Cinder. I finally caved and got a copy with my left over GCs. ;)

Received:

Vampire Academy: The Graphic Novel  

+ Obsidian bead or rock or whatever it is xD

*HUGE Thanks to Bailey @ Novel Nerd! She continues to amaze me and she totally rocks so please please please check out her awesomesauce blog and go follow her! <3 Thanks Bailey!!

Star Charm from Tiffany King

+ Signed card with message <3

*Thanks so so much Tiffany King! The charm is suuuper cute. I love it lots.

That's all I got this week! 

What did you get?

Let me know in the comments below with your links!

REVIEW: The Selection by Kiera Cass

Title: The Selection (The Selection #1)
Author: Kiera Cass
Publisher: HarperTeen
Published: April 24, 2012
Format: ARC* 327 pages

For thirty-five girls, the Selection is the chance of a lifetime. The opportunity to escape the life laid out for them since birth. To be swept up in a world of glittering gowns and priceless jewels. To live in the palace and compete for the heart of the gorgeous Prince Maxon.

But for America Singer, being Selected is a nightmare. It means turning her back on her secret love with Aspen, who is a caste below her. Leaving her home to enter a fierce competition for a crown she doesn't want. Living in a palace that is constantly threatened by violent rebel attacks.

Then America meets Prince Maxon. Gradually, she starts to question all the plans she's made for herself- and realizes that the life she's always dreamed of may not compare to a future she never imagined.

My Review:
The Selection by Kiera Cass was definitely an enchanting read for me from the very start. I was swept away by the connection I felt with the characters, the whole Selection process and the romance that was slowly building up. Admittedly, The Selection reminded me of a cross between The Hunger Games and The Bachelor mixed with royalty, beauty and elegance. 



America Singer’s distaste for the Selection is apparent from the beginning and she wants no part in being one of the lucky thirty-five girls who will compete to win Prince Maxon’s heart and the crown to be the next princess. Being the simple Five that she is, America doesn’t want anything to do with gowns, jewelry and fame. She’s content with being a Five, singing and playing music to help her family. She’s even more happy to stay with Aspen, her first love and boyfriend, despite the fact that he is a Six and their relationship is completely forbidden and frowned upon. However, with her mother’s insistence and at Aspen’s request, America goes ahead and signs up for the Selection. America’s so sure that she won’t be picked, but she is completely surprised when her name is called as one of the Selected. Although America dreads the whole thing, she wants to continue for her family. The money she gets for being a Selected is something her family needs at the moment. More so, America is certain she won’t be staying long. But she never learns and soon enough, America starts to see that Prince Maxon is not who she thought he was and the more she spends time with him, the more she learns that this lifestyle is something she could easily fall into and be a part of.

I absolutely became smitten and adored The Selection the moment I finished the first chapter. The whole idea of The Selection had me so intrigued. I loved what Kiera Cass created within the book. The way she tied in old ways with new and modern ones was simply marveling. I’ve always been fascinated with royal families and I’ve always had this sort of longing to know what it was like to be in one. I specifically liked the way that Kiera Cass placed the people in the book. The rest of the people were set apart from the royal family, divided into a caste system of numbers. A One being considered the highest, such as the royal family, while Eight being the lowest, being a maid or servant. What I enjoyed about this was being able to learn what each caste did and how they lived their lives. It was important to see the difference between each caste and the rules in which they must abide by and I thought Kiera Cass developed this quite well. I do have to comment on the development of the world building. I was hoping there would be more insight on how the country came to be. However, I believe that because of the lack of this, more can be described in the next book since this one was more focused on the Selection itself. 



As a main character, America Singer really stood out for me. Before being Selected, I already saw the strength in America and her overall rebellion and knack for not following the rules. She thinks for herself and she’s stubborn as hell and has a temper to match. She’s really talented, being able to speak in three different languages and the fact that she can sing and play various instruments really made me love her more. After being Selected, I was amazed at how America stayed true to herself. Even with the beautiful clothes and excellent food, she doesn’t change who she is inside. America even tries to befriend the other girls despite being their competition and the some of the mean things they have to say. America doesn’t even see how beautiful and strong she is. Getting to know America and watching her go through the Selection process with the other girls made me see how perfect she would be as a princess. Her opinions and thoughts about the country when she talks with Maxon was just more evidence of her overall potential. The relationship that America had with Maxon was unusual, but so nice. I liked how they slowly became friends and then little by little they started to like each other more than that. America and Maxon just fit so well together. Their relationship is easy, satisfying and never forced. They learn to trust each other allowing America to open up to Maxon, telling him about the world outside the palace and in turn, Maxon tells her about his duties, hardships being prince and his thoughts on the state of the country. 


It’s not hard to like the other characters in the book, especially Maxon. At first, I saw him only the way America did: handsome, yet stiff and formal. As she got to know him, I did too. He may be a prince, but he’s just a normal person. He sweet and thoughtful and a complete gentleman. He’s so lovable, innocent and guarded all at the same time. Deep down, I could see that he had his own doubts about being the future king. He has fears, hopes, dreams and things he’s afraid he’ll never have no matter how much he desires them. He’s afraid he won’t be loved or that he’ll never live up to his duties and that no one will take him seriously. Maxon questions himself and his abilities. It seems like he’s this powerful and sure person, but he’s not as confident and as poised as he seems to be. He’s just a regular guy at heart. Because of this and way Maxon carries himself, I fell for him so hard. I love him so so much, I’m definitely rooting for him and America. With Aspen, I must say that I did like him as well, but I just couldn’t bring myself to love him the way I did with Maxon. Aspen is charming, a romantic and passionate person. He was also admirable and selfless, but his pride got the best of him. He’s only apparent in the beginning of book and again in the end and I think his absence ultimately hurt him in my eyes and heart. Other memorable characters was America’s cute little sister, America’s maids: Anne, Lucy and Mary, but also a few of the other Selected such as Marlee and Kriss were a few of my favorites.

Although I already knew America was going to be picked as a Selected, the anticipation I felt when she was announced burst out of me. The competition between the girls was pretty exciting and somewhat intense in some parts. Many times, I was felt America’s fear, anger, jealousness, nervousness and giddiness throughout the whole book. 



The Selection was downright amazing and brilliantly written. It’s no wonder I completely immersed myself within this book, flipping through each page without hesitancy. I really wanted to live in this world and experience what America went through. I didn’t expect to love The Selection as much as I did and I’m more than happy to have read such a lovely book. It was everything I hoped it would be and then some. There is no denying that I’ll be looking forward to more of America and her journey as a Selected in the next book to come.



My Rating: 5 out of 5 stars


*Thanks to NYMBC (Maggie) for sending me an ARC to read. I super appreciate it. <3 :)

My Review of The Selection on NYMBC

Connect with Kiera Cass:

Website | Twitter 

Purchase The Selection:

Amazon | B&N | Book Depository

REVIEW: Dark Kiss by Michelle Rowen

Title: Dark Kiss (Nightwatchers #1)
Author: Michelle Rowen
Publisher: Harlequin Teen
Published: May 22, 2012
Format: Netgalley* 348 pages

I don't do dangerous.  Smart, über-careful, ordinary Samantha-that's me. But I just couldn't pass up a surprise kiss from my number-one unattainable crush. A kiss that did something to me...something strange. Now I feel hungry all the time, but not for food. It's like part of me is missing-and I don't know if I can get it back. Then there's Bishop. At first I thought he was just a street kid, but the secrets he's keeping are as intense as his unearthly blue eyes. If he's what I think he is, he may be the only one who can help me. But something terrifying is closing in, and the one chance Bishop and I have to stop it means losing everything I ever wanted and embracing the darkness inside me.... NIGHTWATCHERS When angels and demons must work together, something beyond evil is rising...

My Review:
Samantha is a normal teenager who is careful, gets good grades and tries to stay out of trouble. Ever since her parents divorce and incident at the mall, Samantha has tried to stay on the right track. She stays away from anything remotely dangerous. However, danger must follow Sam when she gets kissed by her handsome and alluring crush, Stephen. The kiss with Stephen was supposed to be one of the best days of her life. Instead, Sam is confused by Stephen’s departure after the kiss. Not only that, she’s experiencing intense hunger that cannot be satisfied with food. To top that, she meets a lost and confused Bishop who desperately needs her help to fulfill his mission to keep the balance of Heaven and Hell.

I found Dark Kiss to be a very easy read. Michelle Rowen’s writing style was simple and clear. She definitely has a way with words and a true talent for story telling. She couples this with beautiful descriptions that are vivid and not difficult to imagine in one’s mind.

Michelle Rowen took the concept of angels and she made it into her own, bringing in different aspects to their origin and powers. She brought demons, grays, the Hollow and   different workings of Heaven and Hell into the story that I found entirely intriguing and original. She develops these parts of the story well enough, but not so much to reveal too much. At times I was a little lost with the lack of such vital background, but it didn’t bother me so much since I knew it wasn’t the focus of the book. 



Samantha was a regular teenager forced into the mess placed by Stephen and then mixed in with Bishops problems. I saw her as someone who was unsure of herself with low self-esteem. However, Sam also had this quirkiness that I liked with a touch of wittiness. She was sarcastic most of the time and she had this spunky snarky side of her that I loved most. She’s a good friend and she’s very kind. She likes to help people, especially the homeless. I thought Sam had a really strong voice in the beginning of the book and she continued to keep this along the way. I was able to feel some sort of sympathy to what Sam was going through, but I couldn’t seem to connect with her on a much deeper level. However, I believe Michelle Rowen did a great job of developing Sam’s personality and character. I can see Sam growing more into herself in the upcoming books.

I liked the addition of angel and demons working together. I thought it brought a real interesting twist to the story along with the reasoning in why their grouping was necessary for the mission. I found Bishop to be mysterious, alluring and quite sexy. He was kind and understanding and I really liked that about him. I do wish I learned more about his background than the little snippets given from him.

His relationship with Sam was an odd one. He needed Sam to help complete his mission. Her touch helps him, her abilities are useful for him and I found this a little too convenient for the two. What I wanted to know was why? Why him an why her? Not much is revealed and this kind of left me frustrated. Upon meeting, they have this instant connection and familiarity with one another. I’m not a big fan of insta-love and I think this where I failed to thoroughly enjoy Dark Kiss. I couldn’t understand, comprehend or justify their instant connection to one another. I just didn’t get it and there was no reasoning into why they felt this way towards each other. More so, I just wasn’t convinced on the depth of their feelings. It wasn’t believable to me and I struggled through this throughout the book. I also had trouble with Sam’s constant wishy-washy feelings for Bishop and I kept getting tugged back and forth along with her emotions. It was confusing and it left me a little annoyed with the way Sam was acting.



I did love the other characters in the book. My favorite had to be Kraven. He was dangerous, enticing and had this irresistible charm about him that I couldn’t get enough of. He had the best comebacks and I loved the way he spoke to Sam. Kraven had me smiling and laughing through some of my favorite parts of the book. I also liked Zach and his pure, kind-hearted personality. He was just a lovely character that I wanted to get to know more of. Another one was Connor. His appearance into the book along with his sarcasm and jokes made me laugh out load one or two times and I’m hoping as well that there will be more of him next time.

For me, Dark Kiss was a slow-paced novel. Although I was able to read this book quickly, I kept wanting to glaze over several parts that became unnecessarily slow or seemed to drag on and on. I was hoping it would pick up, but I was disappointed to find that it did not. To be honest, most of the time I was a little bored. I needed something amazing and shocking to happen, but it never really happened for me. I was looking for a big wow ending to book, but for me Dark Kiss fell flat and didn’t meet my expectations.


However, I was impressed with the overall plot and storyline for Dark Kiss. It’s something I’ve never read and up until now, I’m still very fascinated by the whole idea. I’m hoping to love the next book more than I did with Dark Kiss. I believe the series has great potential to be become a spectacular one.

My Rating: 3.5 out 5 stars

*Thanks to Netgalley and Harlequin Teen for allowing me to read Dark Kiss

Connect with Michelle Rowen:

Website | Twitter | Facebook

Purchase Dark Kiss:

Amazon | B&N | Book Depository

REVIEW: Tempting the Best Man by J. Lynn

Title: Tempting the Best Man
Author: J. Lynn
Publisher: Entangled Publishing: Indulgence
Published: April 23, 2012
Format: Kindle ebook, 172 pages

Madison Daniels has worshipped her brother's best friend since they were kids. Everyone thinks she and Chase Gamble would make the perfect couple, but there are two major flaws in their logic. 1) Chase has sworn off relationships of any kind, and 2) after blurring the line between friends and lovers for one night four years ago, they can't stop bickering.

Forced together for her brother's wedding getaway, Chase and Madison decide to call a truce for the happy couple. Except all bets are off when they're forced to shack up in a tacky 70’s honeymoon suite and survive a multitude of "accidents" as the family tries to prove their "spark" can be used than for more than fighting. That is, if they don't strangle each other first…

My Review:
I loved every word, sentence, and page of Tempting the Best Man! I rarely read adult novels, but this one was definitely memorable and so mind blowingly amazing! I have never laughed and swooned and squealed so much while reading a book. More so, I felt  the built up anticipation and tension within this book between Maddie and Chase.

J. Lynn (Jennifer L. Armentrout) has such a way with words and with her overall writing style. She just completely consumed me into her books through and through. Tempting the Best Man was no exception. I was hooked from the start and I knew nothing in this world could have stopped me from devouring this book until the very last page. She kept me riveted, enticed, enthralled, allured and ultimately kept me wanting more the moment I read the last word. This book was nothing but absolute brilliance in my eyes and I expected nothing less from JLA. She’s just amazing.

Maddie was a wonderful character. I enjoyed getting to know her and seeing how much energy and spunk she had along with this fierce attitude she had to match. She was independent and smart while also being funny and quirky. I connected with her immediately. Chase was definitely my favorite character. He was all kinds of sexy, but he was cool and witty and completely charming to the core. He was certainly mouth-wateringly hot and oozing with confidence like no other. I love his snarky comebacks and the relationship he had with Maddie. He was very protective of her and I saw how much he cared for her deeply. I also loved how he was kind and gentle. He showed this sweet and tender side of him that I seriously could not get enough of and probably never will. 



The relationship between Maddie and Chase was an intense and exuberant one. When each of them showed up on page, something sparked and everything became a lot brighter, but at the same time, tension became increasingly palpable. Their chemistry was just extraordinary; they fit so well together! The way they were around each other had me pulling my hair in frustration, but also kept me at the edge of my seat with immense anticipation. They were like magnets. At times, they were never close enough to connect, but when they were, it was so difficult to break them apart and I loved that about them. I just never knew what Maddie and Chase were going to do and I enjoyed having that thrill and excitement throughout the book. I also loved the obvious adoration they had for one another, although it didn’t seem evident to either one of them. I really did believe they were perfect for one another. 


The sexy scenes between the two were heart-stopping and so completely hot hot hot. JLA sure knows how to write such a vivid scene that I was able to vision it in my mind with no problem. These scenes were beautifully written, descriptive but never offensively graphic. It was the perfect combination of love, passion and lust.

I was so happy to see that Tempting the Best Man was a split into Maddie and Chase’s POV. I loved being able to get into the minds of both characters and see how each affected the other through their eyes. It was refreshing and wonderful to no extent. It made the story much more intense to see both sides. For me, not many authors due a dual POV well, but here, JLA definitely does it with perfection. She brought the right amount of Maddie and Chase, balancing both characters throughout the book as a whole. 


Overall, Tempting the Best Man was seductively hot, highly addictive, and very heart-felt. It’s got fun and humorous moments that will surely evoke bucket loads of laughter. There is no denying how magnificent this book really is and there’s no denying how much I absolutely loved it to bits. 



My Rating: 5 out of 5 stars


Connect with J. Lynn (Jennifer L. Armentrout):

Website || Blog || Twitter 

Purchase Tempting the Best Man:

Amazon || B&N

Waiting on Wednesday #22

Waiting on Wednesday is a weekly meme hosted by Jill @ Breaking the Spine where you share an upcoming release that you're anticipating on reading.

Out of Reach by Carrie Arcos

Expected Publication: October 16, 2012

From Goodreads:

Sixteen year old Rachel has always idolized her older brother Micah, but she knows he also secretly struggles with addiction. So when Micah doesn’t come home one night, Rachel panics.

Then Rachel gets an anonymous note telling her that Micah is a few hours away—and on the brink of destruction. Accompanied by Micah’s best friend Tyler, Rachel sets out to find her brother. With no concrete leads, Rachel and Tyler spend hours wandering the streets. But before Rachel can move on, she must confront her own dark secrets, her growing attraction to Tyler…and the possibility that Micah may never come home.

Why I'm waiting:

1. Contemporary
Lately, I've been finding a lot of contemporaries that have really caught my eye and Out of Reach is one of them.

2. Older Brother
I have always voiced to my friends that I've always wanted a big brother, someone to look out for me and defend me. Being an only child kind of put that dream to an end indefinitely, but there is always wishful thinking! When I saw that this book is about a sister trying to help her older brother, I just knew I had to read it. I needed to know what this book is all about, how Micah and Rachel's relationship works. I want to see the whole older brother and younger sister tandem that I have always longed for in action despite its misplaced unwelcoming circumstance.

3. Addiction and Dark Things
I think I've voiced out my love for dark or heavy contemporary or basically contemporaries that are bound to have a not so happy ending. I don't read much, but I'm attracted and drawn to those types. They seem to pique my interest all the time and this is no exception for Out of Reach. Also, these types of books end up being my most favorites (with Graffiti Moon being that exception).  I can tell this one will be dark and will probably put me in ruins because it doesn't seem like a happy book to me. Plus, it's coupled with some sort of addiction on the brother's part. I don't usually like to read about addiction because it bothers me personally, but for some reason I really want to know more.

4. Rachel and Tyler.
Come on, I'm a hopeless romantic and I'm always looking for a hot romance in any book. How can I not mention these two as one of my reasons? Not much is said from the blurb, but I can see some tension happening between these two and I love me some tension! LOL!

5. This Line:
"How do you find someone who doesn't want to be found?"
LOVE. THIS. I WANT MORE.

So what are you waiting on?
Let me know in the comments below!

Book Haul #22

A book haul feature that shares items, such as books and swag, that I received within the week. 

It was a slow week for me since I haven't expecting much in the mail and because I haven't bought book lately, but this week was pretty awesome nonetheless :)

For Review:

Pushing the Limits by Katie McGarry

The Goddess Legacy by Aimee Carter

*Thanks to Netgalley and Harlequin Teen! I can't wait to dive into both of these!

Received:

ReVamped by Ada Adams (signed to #EthansLegion)

Personalized Signed Bookplate

20+ Signed Bookplates

*BIG Thanks to Ada Adams! She rocks and she's totes awesomesauce.

Don't worry #EthansLegion, I'll be sending out your signed bookplates soon! :)

Won:

House of Thebes by Courtney Cole (personalized)

I Heart The Bloodstone Saga T-Shirt <3

*Thank you Courtney Cole! I love both :)

Won:

A Midsummer's Nightmate by Kody Keplinger (ARC)

Renegade postcard + magnet

Vicious Deep sticker + signed bookmark

Rose hairclip/pin

*Thanks to Zoraida Cordova for this awesome prize! :D

That's all I got this week! What did you get?

Let me know in the comments below with your direct links, please <3

REVIEW: The Fault in Our Stars by John Green

Title: The Fault in Our Stars
Author: John Green
Publisher: Dutton Books
Published: January 10, 2012
Format: First Edition, Hardcover, 318 pages

Diagnosed with Stage IV thyroid cancer at 12, Hazel was prepared to die until, at 14, a medical miracle shrunk the tumours in her lungs... for now.

Two years post-miracle, sixteen-year-old Hazel is post-everything else, too; post-high school, post-friends and post-normalcy. And even though she could live for a long time (whatever that means), Hazel lives tethered to an oxygen tank, the tumours tenuously kept at bay with a constant chemical assault.

Enter Augustus Waters. A match made at cancer kid support group, Augustus is gorgeous, in remission, and shockingly to her, interested in Hazel. Being with Augustus is both an unexpected destination and a long-needed journey, pushing Hazel to re-examine how sickness and health, life and death, will define her and the legacy that everyone leaves behind.

My Review:
The Fault in Our Stars by John Green is a epic tale about a girl named Hazel who is diagnosed with Thyroid cancer at the young age of twelve; set to die. However, at fourteen, Hazel gets a medical miracle. The tumors in her lungs shrink and stay that way, but Hazel is forever sick. She lives on with a oxygen tank always at her side. She becomes a little detached from outside world, more comfortable holed up in her room reading a book. One day, everything changes when she goes to her support group and meets Augustus Waters for the very first time. 



I have always admired John Green’s work. His writing has always seemed to capture me with little effort and I’ve always ended up loving his books in its entirety. However, John Green has done more than make me fall in the love with The Fault in Our Stars. He changed me and opened me up to such a beautiful and so completely heart-breaking, heart-shattering and soul-touching story that is about life, healing, discovery, falling in love, true pain, death, and letting go.



If there is a book that is made of perfection, it’s this one. I thought I knew what I was up against when I started reading The Fault in Our Stars. I was expecting to cry, but I was not expecting to feel this raw pain that ran deeper than my soul. I was not expecting to get so attached to the characters, to the story, to everything where I literally had the hardest time reading on from the hurt and the feeling of drowning in my own pain and suffering. I was not expecting to laugh like I have never laughed before. I was not expecting to be so captivated by such a uniquely incredible story. 



John Green really threads and weaves in intelligence, humor and pain into The Fault In Our Stars. His writing is stunning, mesmerizing and so irresistible. He writes with purity and passion that really shows in this book. I must say that John Green continues to blow me away and he never fails to impress me with his work.



Both Hazel and Augustus are smart and optimistic despite their situation and the circumstances in which brought them together. I completely fell head over heels for both of them. Their continuous banter had me clutching my stomach from all the laughing and many times I found myself grinning like a completely and utter fool. Hazel was a wonderful main character. I enjoyed her strong voice and the way she delivered herself. I really connected to Hazel and was completely taken with her strength and the fight she had, not for herself, but for her parents. She was really mature for her age and I loved the way she related to books. I loved how she saw things differently, how she expresses herself and how real and human she felt to me.



I can say many many things about Augustus Waters. He’s so exceptional and if The Fault in Our Stars is the perfect book, Augustus is the perfect boy, perfect character, perfect everything. I have attached myself to him so much that there was just no way you could make me part from him. He was funny, very very smart like Hazel, eccentric, cute, charming, handsome, different, kind, sweet, thoughtful, loving, true, honest, and I could go on and on. His attraction and connection to Hazel is truly remarkable. The way they understand each other so completely really took my breath away and left my heart skipping beats.

 

Hazel and Augustus’s journey together in The Fault in Our Stars is an eye-opening experience and a truly outstanding one at that. Watching these two fall hopelessly in love was so amazing. I cannot describe in which the beauty their love evokes. I cannot describe the intensity in which they their love was and the inevitable, looming consequence their sickness bears for the both of them. However, their love is true, honest and it’s so completely real. These two moved me and I cannot put into words how much their story affected me, changed me, and broke me all at once. 



Overall, The Fault in Our Stars, is beautifully written. It’s filled with tons of humor and sophistication. It’s creative, smart, and so alluring. It brings out floods of emotions and will definitely have you crying for hours on end. It’s tragically addicting and so absorbing. The end will leave you speechless and the story will stay with you forever.



If there is one book in this world that you must must must read, The Fault in Our Stars is that one book. 


My Rating: 5 out of 5 stars. 

#EthansLegion: ReVamped Relay Update

Hi #EthansLegion members! Ren and I are super thrilled and excited to have all of you on board for the ReVamped Relay! I'm sure we're all going to have such a fun and fabulous time reading and discussing ReVamped! I really loved ReVamped and I hope each and every one of you do too! 

I'm giving you guys this update because I finally got the copy of ReVamped that we're going to pass along with 20 or so bookplates that have been signed by Ada Adams, herself! 

Each member, as of today, will receive a signed bookplate! The line up for the book to be passed along will go like this (list is subject to change):

1. Gianna B.
2. Yarethzia P.
3. Mickey R. 
4. Bridget H.
5. Racquel N.
6. Jessica B.
7. Amanda Marie
8. April A. 
9. Geri M.
10. Bailey P.
11. Jill K. 

So far that is the line up. I'm waiting for Ada's go before I ship the book to Gianna. Once I get the go ahead, I will contact each and everyone of you via email letting you know the relay has officially begun. 

Remember, this is a relay and we're trying to get the book to each and every one of you while still gaining more readers and spreading the book across the country. I don't know how fast you guys read or if you have time in your schedules (since things happen, right?) so I do not want to force you guys to read the book in a day or whatever. I want you to take your time. No matter what, each and every one of you will get a chance to read the book whether it be this round of the relay or the next.

When receiving the book, please contact me or Ren via

Twitter: @xjessirae or @rensrambles 

or Email us at revampedrelay@gmail.com with #EthansLegion as the subject line.

Also, you may write a message within the book as long as you do not write it on actual print of the book and as long as it is not inappropriate. I encourage you to write your thoughts or messages to Ada or to the following team members and readers who will see it. I will be writing a message as well  :) <3

Once you finish reading ReVamped, please fill out this FORM. 

Make sure you have posted your review on either your Blog/Twitter/Facebook/Amazon/B&N/Goodreads account. Just one link is needed.

Just in case you guys read like lightning, we may finish early, right? Thats why I wish for you guys to pass the book within your hometown/state that way we get more readers (and points) added. I've said this before: the reader does not need to be a book blogger, just a a dedicated reader so you can definitely pass the book to your mom, dad, sister, brother, cousin, and friends. You are responsible for  letting them know the rules after reading ReVamped and how they must post their review. If the person you pass the book to doesn't have a means of posting a review, you must post the review for them in order for their points to count for our team.

To Do This:

All you have to do is get their review/opinion and email the following information to revampedrelay@gmail.com:

Your Name, Name of Person You Passed the Book to, Their Location (city&state),  Their Review provided by You. 

(Ex: Ren W., Jessirae L., San Diego, CA,  Review or Review Link).

If you do not wish to post the person's review on your accounts, Ren or I will post the review on Twitter so the points will count for our team.

If your family member/friend or whoever would like signed bookplate, please email me (same email address above) with the address on where to send it, whether it's yours or theirs. 

I ask of you guys to please keep track of the book if you are passing it to a family member/friend or other. You will be responsible for passing the book along after them to a Team Member listed above. We are all on an honor code, so please please please pass the book along. It is a privilege for us to be able to read ReVamped in this manner :)

Ren and I truly thank you for joining us during the ReVamped Relay! We hope you have a fun time and enjoy the book. Also, we hope during this relay you get a chance to connect with us and other team members! 

I'll be emailing a link to this post along with the direct link to the #EthansLegion Check In Form so you don't need to find this post later when the ReVamped Relay has begun. 

Waiting on Wednesday #21

Waiting on Wednesday is a weekly meme hosted by Jill @ Breaking the Spine where you share an upcoming release that you're anticipating on reading.

The Glimpse by Claire Merle

Expected Publication Date: June 7, 2012

From Goodreads:

Once you've seen into the future, can you change your destiny?

In a near future, society is segregated according to whether people are genetically disposed to mental illness. 17-year-old Ana has been living the privileged life of a Pure due to an error in her DNA test. When the authorities find out, she faces banishment from her safe Community, a fate only thwarted by the fact that she has already been promised to Pure-boy Jasper Taurell. 

Jasper is from a rich and influential family and despite Ana’s condition, wants to be with her. The authorities grant Ana a tentative reprieve. If she is joined to Jasper before her 18th birthday, she may stay in the Community until her illness manifests. But if Jasper changes his mind, she will be cast out among the Crazies. As Ana’s joining ceremony and her birthday loom closer, she dares to hope she will be saved from the horror of the City and live a ‘normal’ life. But then Jasper disappears.

Led to believe Jasper has been taken by a strange sect the authorities will not intefere with, Ana sneaks out of her well-guarded Community to find him herself. Her search takes her through the underbelly of society and into the pits of the human soul. And as she delves deeper into the mystery of Jasper's abduction she uncovers some devastating truths that destroy everything she has grown up to believe, but she also learns to love as she has never loved before.

Why I'm waiting?

1. Dystopian.
I'm a big fan of dystopian novels. I've read The Hunger Games, Matched, Delirium, Under the Never Sky, The Selection, Wither, All These Things I've Done, Divergent and so much more and naturally, I'd be drawn to The Glimpse from it being a dystopian alone. Something about dystopian novels always  seem to get my attention. I'm always wanting to look for the next dystopian novel because I crave these kind of books. They pique my interest. They make me wonder if our country could ever end up this way.

2. Mental Illness.
I've only read one book that has dealt with mental illness and that's Life is But A Dream by Brian James. I doubt these two are the same, but anything to do with mental illness is always interesting. I like to see how Claire Merle integrates this into the society and world she built up.

3. Ana.
I'm already intrigued by Ana. There's an error in her DNA test. How does this happen? How does she get away with it? How does the Community find out that she'll become ill? What's the deal with the Crazies? If there wasn't an error, would she have been casted out anyway? I have so many questions about Ana's life. She sounds like a strong girl just from the blurb and I can't wait to get to know her further.

4. The Disappearance.
Ana is promised to Jasper, but she disappears. I'm wondering if this will become some kind of chase where Ana will have to skirt around the Community and look for Jasper. I love those type of books where the protag is looking for someone, chasing someone. There's that mystery that I love and then the unknown of it all. It's something I'm definitely in to. Plus, I want to know more about this other society that has kidnapped Jasper. Is it a secret society? Is it underground? What does it have to do with the Community?

I have never wanted to know so much about a book before. I have so many questions and I'm just dying to lose myself into this world. :)

What about you? What are you waiting on?
Let me know in the comments below!

Teaser Tuesday #18

Teaser Tuesday is weekly meme hosted by MizB from Should Be Reading.

Intangible by J. Meyers
Published: January 31, 2012

Deep dark eyes looked into her light grey ones, intensely, as if trying to place her. A black goatee framed sensuous lips, surrounded straight white teeth. She stopped there. Entranced. He had a beautiful mouth. A mouth she was having a hard time looking away from. A mouth she had a sudden urge to kiss.  Location 183.

The monstrously beautiful woman laughed as she raked her long sharp fingernails down the guy's face. Blood oozed from the cuts. She leaned in close to him, inhaled the scent and let out a slight moan of pleasure. She slowly, gently licked the blood from his face. Location 627.

What did you think of those teasers?
Personally, I like the first one best because the second creeps the heck out of me. *shudders*
Let me know your thoughts and leave you teaser links below!
Happy Tuesday!

REVIEW: What A Boy Wants by Nyrae Dawn

Title: What A Boy Wants
Author: Nyrae Dawn
Published: April 6, 2012
Format: Kindle ebook

Courtesy of watching his mom’s relationships, Sebastian Hawkins knows what girls need to do to get a guy. He has what he considers a PHD in hooking up. When he needs extra cash for a car, Sebastian starts up an online venture as The Hook-up Doctor, to anonymously help girls land the guy of their dreams. Of course, his services don’t offer a happily-ever-after guarantee. He’s seen firsthand getting together never means staying together.

And then he falls in love…

With the last girl he would expect…

Totally not in his game plan.

Suddenly, Sebastian finds himself muddled in the game he’s always prided himself on. He can’t even pick up girls at parties anymore! Why would anyone want to be in love when it turns you into a stuttering, screwed-up, mess with really lame stalker tendencies? Stalking? Totally not his gig.

But the Hook-up Doctor won’t let himself go down easily. He’s always known how to give a girl what she wants and now it’s time to figure out what a boy wants… and he definitely plans on getting it.

My Review:
Sebastian Hawkins doesn’t believe in love. He believes in hooking-up. Watching his mother go through relationship after relationship, Bastian has learned exactly what a girl needs to do in order to get her guy. He uses his knowledge and so-called expertise in his online hook-up service to earn some cash by helping out girls and giving them advice. Through this, Bastian becomes known as The Hook-up Doctor. He has never failed to hook up a girl with the guy she desires. Bastian knows what he’s doing. He can handle it. However Bastian finds himself falling love like he’s never fallen before and the girl he’s in love with is someone so unexpected, he’s starting to lose his mojo for picking up girls. It’s got him tongue-tied, nervous, lost and confused. Despite all the crazy emotions going through him, Bastian is determined to win the girl of his dreams. After all, he is The Hook-up Doctor and who knows better than Bastian?



What A Boy Wants by Nyrae Dawn was such an incredible book from start to finish. I absolutely loved everything about it from the storyline to the characters to the romance. I was wowed beyond belief and wrapped up in such an amazing book, there was nothing to stop me from reading this in one sitting. 



Nyrae Dawn really impressed me with the original storyline and concept with what she created in What A Boy Wants. She was able to capture such vivid moments in the book, making them seem even more realistic. Her way with words were moving and it was obvious how much passion and emotion was put into the writing. It’s a refreshing story about love, relationships, learning to overcome fears and the courage to take a chance. 



I absolutely adored Bastian. He is definitely an unforgettable character! From the very beginning, Bastian made a permanent impression on my heart. Nyrae Dawn developed Bastian’s character and personality beautifully. She captured the perfect male POV in Bastian. She did it naturally, effortlessly and with ease. Bastian had such a strong voice that I wasn’t just hearing him in my head, I felt like he was speaking to me. I felt as if Bastian was telling this personal story of his right next to me. I instantly connected to him the moment I started reading. I couldn’t help but be immediately taken with him. Bastian had a wonderful sense of humor, he was cocky, arrogant and conceited, but he was also super sweet, caring and had a heart of gold. Bastian was also extremely witty, smart and boy was he oozing with sex appeal. He’s such a handsome character. I loved his relationship with his mom and the dynamic friendship he had with Jaden, Pris and Aspen. When it came to the people Bastian loved, I really saw through all his cockiness. He was such a total sweetheart. I really saw how much he loved and cared for them and saw just how protective he was of his loved ones. Seeing Bastian fall in love was just heart warming. I loved reading about him feeling unsettled and the way he felt so confused. His raw emotions in this book really made him real for me. 



The other characters in this book were also memorable. Nyrae Dawn does an excellent job of giving each character a distinct personality and voice. Individually, I loved Aspen, Jaden and Pris. When they came together, it was fun and their banter with each other was hilarious. More than once, I found myself laughing at their conversations. I loved getting to know each and every one of them and ultimately I still wanted more of them. I hope Nyrae creates more amazing characters like these.



The pacing of the book was just right. There’s not a dull moment with Bastian, making each page turnable one after the other. I couldn’t help but want to keep reading, but at the same time draw it out for as long as I could. I never wanted Bastian’s story to end, but I was eager to know what was going to happen next. Many parts of the book surprised me to no extent and the entire book is easily devourable.



Overall, What A Boy Wants was a very light and fun read. It’s extraordinarily addicting and it contains loads of laughs. There is no other book like this one. What A Boy Wants is a must-have book!



I can’t wait for whatever Nyrae Dawn comes up with next!



My Rating: 5 out 5 stars 

*Cover love: OMG. I just adore cover to this book. I just want to kiss him! ;)

Connect with Nyrae Dawn:

Blog | Twitter

Purchase What A Boy Wants:

Amazon: Paperback | Kindle

B&N

Look out for What A Boy Needs, companion to What A Boy Wants, Jaden's story <3

P.S. I think I'm going to die from all these hot boys on these covers! *swoon*

Book Haul #21

A book haul feature that shares items, such as books and swag, that I received within the week. 

Chameleon by Cidney Swanson (Rippler #2)

Double Threat My Bleep by Julie Prestsater (Double Threat #2)

*Thanks to Julie Prestsater for Double Threat #2!

City of Lost Souls by Cassandra Clare (The Mortal Instruments #5)

Sweet Evil by Wendy Higgins

Slide by Jill Hathaway (Slide #1) -- will be gifted to Bailey @ Novel Nerd 

For Always by Danielle Sibarium (personalized)

*Thanks to Paige from The Book Vulture for Slide and Danielle Sibarium for sending me a signed copy of For Always to review! :) 

Signed Elemental bookmark + temporary tattoo from Keren from Gothic Angel Book Reviews

Signed bookplate from Kiera Cass!

Card and Flawed guitar pick from Kate Avelynn <33

*Thank you times a million Keren, Kiera and Kate! :) <3

Just two chapter samplers I got from my local indie bookstore:

No Safety in Numbers Dayna Lorentz

The Atria International Book of Mysteries

*If any one wants these, let me know. I'd be happy to send. 

First come first serve. Just leave a comment.

And that's all I got this week! 

Let me know what you got in the comments below. Make sure to leave your links!

Have a wonderful week. I know