Wednesday, January 28, 2015

Bridges Burned by Chris Cannon Review and Giveaway



Bridges Burned (Going Down in Flames #2)


Release Date: 01/19/15

Entangled Teen



Summary from Goodreads:

Don't just fight the system…burn it.

Since discovering she is a shape-shifting, fire-breathing dragon on her sixteenth birthday (surprise!), Bryn McKenna’s world has been thrown into chaos. Being a “crossbreed”—part Red dragon and part Blue—means Bryn will never fit in. Not with dragon society. Not with the archaic and controlling Directorate. And definitely not when she has striped hair and a not-so-popular affection for rule-breaking…

 But sneaking around with her secret boyfriend, Zavien, gets a whole lot harder when he’s betrothed to someone else. Someone who isn't a mixed breed and totally forbidden. And for an added complication, it turns out Bryn’s former archnemesis Jaxon Westgate isn’t quite the evil asshat she thought. Now she’s caught between her desire to fit in and a need to set things on fire. Literally.

Because if Bryn can’t adapt to the status quo…well, then maybe it’s time for her to change it.


 

 
Books One:

Going Down in Flames


Release Date: 06/30/14

Entangled Teen


Summary from Goodreads:

If her love life is going down in flames, she might as well spark a revolution.

Finding out on your sixteenth birthday you’re a shape-shifting dragon is tough to swallow. Being hauled off to an elite boarding school is enough to choke on.

Since Bryn is the only crossbreed at the Institute for Excellence, all eyes are on her, but it’s a particular black dragon, Zavien, who catches her attention.

Zavien is tired of the Council’s rules. Segregated clans, being told who to love, and close-minded leaders make freedom of choice almost impossible. The new girl with the striped hair is a breath of fresh air, and with Bryn’s help, they may be able to change the rules.

At the Institute, old grudges, new crushes, and death threats are all part of a normal day for Bryn. She’ll need to learn to control her dragon powers if she wants to make it through her first year at school. But even focusing on staying alive is difficult when you’re falling for someone you can't have.




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Jennifer's Review:

Burning Bridges continues on were Going Down In Flames Review  ended. Bryn, a mixed Dragon is returning back to "dragon school". The author, Chris Cannon did a wonderful job of reminding us what happened in book 1 (GDIF). Just as I would read something that referred to a previous incident in book 1 I would think "Oh, I have to go back and re-read that part",in comes a character who asks the very question I was thinking and right there we get a small recap in book 2.
The book cover: Well its amazing and love it BUT I kept waiting for Bryn to change her hair color to blue in this book and she doesn't :-) So I have to say I am a bit confused. Maybe I am just focused on it because its the second Entangled book this year that the cover has caused me some confusion. 
In Bridges Burned -- a lot of things happen -- things get weirder & scarier with a ton of plot twists, romance, action, Christmas family time, school dance (with some drama), terrorist attacks, and then just like book 1 ta cliff hanger ending-- and I have to say that in addition to be a cliff  hanger I was left feeling that I didn't many answers/resolution. One that will rock your world in this book is that people get seriously hurt and people die --its devastating and I am holding hope that there is more to that in the next book then what we read in this book.
The most surprising thing of book 2  for me is what happens with Bryn, Zavian and Jaxon. I can't believe I am saying this but I really want Bryn with anyone BUT Zavian. I was hoping to love Zavian in this book as his character had lured me in in Book 1 but WOW he does he does a complete 180 and becomes a total JERK in this book. Like so much of a jerk that there is no redemption in my eyes..... EVER. On the other hand -- Jaxon -- I like him ALOT more in this book, he starts to think for himself and realizes that not all is "right" in the dragon world -- not sure I like him as love interest for Bryn (as I like Rhianna and Bryn likes Rhianna and can't see Bryn crossing that friendship line) -- but Bryn and Jaxon have definitely developed a friendship & a respect for one another with a side of awesome banter that is now funny and light. I like it!
The rest of the cast: 
Bryn -- still as feisty as ever in this book with laugh out lines lines.
Ivy and Clint -- still the steadfast friends they were in book 1 and they are there for Bryn when things go all crazy with Zavian.
Bryn's Knight Valmont - we get to see more of him in this book and its all good -- could be a potential love interest for Bryn and their bond as Knight and Dragon grows (I am really loving where this Knight/Dragon element goes - its new and fresh). 
Merrick -- I was bummed that there was not much at all interaction with Merrick in Bridges Burned. 
Other characters-- we get to know Bryn's Grandmother and Jaxon's Mother more in this book and they are wonderful side characters that you will be sure to like. 
In the end I have no idea were things are going in terms of romance for Bryn(will Chris introduced someone new? will it be Jaxon, Valmont?)but this book packed some serious action and I can't wait to see what is in store for the dragons, the government, the directorate, the romance, and all the characters path's forward.  I can't wait for BOOK 3.

Bottom Line: Bridges Burned is a great second installment in an action packed young adult series that I will continue following.
 
There are just so many good excerpts to show you that I really couldn't limit myself to one so here are two of my favorites.
Excerpt #1
“Hi. I wanted to ask Jaxon a question about the Directorate. Is he here with you?”
Rhianna pointed to the midnight-blue book bag hanging on the back of the chair next to her. “He went to look for a book.”
“Know which way he went?” Searching for someone in the monstrous library could take all night, and there was no guarantee of success.
“Up to the second floor, I believe.”
Which meant he could be anywhere. “I’ll ask him another time.”
“Thank you,” Rhianna said.
“For what?”
“You came to me rather than searching him out on your own. We just quashed those strange rumors about you two, and I’d hate for them to start again.”
“How can people be so stupid?” Bryn plopped down in Jaxon’s seat. “I’d never sneak around with Jaxon for two reasons: one, because I like you, and two, because he annoys the hell out of me on a regular basis.”
Rhianna covered her mouth with her hand as she giggled. “I envy your ability to say what you’re feeling.”
“You should try it sometime.”
“This is a frightening development.” Jaxon came toward them carrying a thick leather-bound book.
“Afraid I’ll be a bad influence?” Bryn asked.
“Yes. If you could remove yourself from my seat and stay away from my future wife, I’d appreciate it.”
Bryn leaned forward, placing her elbows on the table. “Now I’ll have to become best friends with Rhianna to spite you.”
Excerpt # 2
“Excuse me.” A Blue male she didn’t know stood in front of her. He glanced back at a group of males who were snickering.
Her internal alarm went off. Odds were this wouldn’t end well.
“Yes?” she braced herself.
“I was wondering if you’d like to dance?” The tone of his voice screamed, I am a jerk.
“One question: Are you the joke or am I?”
He blinked. “I don’t know what you’re talking about.”
She pointed at his friends. “Are they laughing at you for asking me to dance? Or are they laughing at me, because they think I’ll be stupid enough to believe you actually want to dance with me?”
The polite expression melted from his face, leaving behind a cold sneer. “You’re not stupid, are you?”
“No.”
“You realize this is probably the only chance you’ll have to dance tonight.”
That hurt a little bit because it was probably true. She gave him a go-screw-yourself smile. “Then I’d rather not dance.”



Giveaway:
 


I love reading and writing snarky, kick-butt characters who take on the world and win.

My truths: You can never have too many books, shoes, or purses.

Coffee is the Elixir of Life.

There should be a National Nerf Bat Day where you are allowed to whack annoying people upside the head.


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Tuesday, January 27, 2015

Defenseless by Elisa Dane Book Blitz and Giveaway!


Defenseless (Diamond Girls #3)

by Elisa Dane 
Release Date: 01/27/15
Swoon Romance

Summary from Goodreads:
High school senior, Claire Reilly’s world revolves around All-Star cheerleading. The Diamond Girls, are gearing up for a major competition, which, if they win will allow them to compete at Worlds for the first time. But the unimaginable happens, and both Claire and her team are rocked by a devastating loss. Determined to get to Worlds any way she can, Claire finds help from the last person she imagined would give it—up and coming UFC fighter and notorious bad boy, Ryker Vaughn.

Fouled out of the octagon by a dirty opponent and a vicious kick to the head, Ryker loses control when he learns he may never fight again. Angry over the loss of his mother, an unsupportive family, and the world in general, he gives up, gives in, and unleashes his rage—destroying part of his cousin’s cheer gym in the process. Things go from bad to worse when Ryker is given an ultimatum: help the Diamond Girls compete for a bid to Worlds, or go to jail.

Overwhelmed with anger, sadness, and grief, the unlikely pair learn that what you see is not always what you get, and that the most difficult losses sometimes open the door to a frightening, yet amazing new future.


Buy Links:
Amazon




Excerpt:
I tore my eyes from the mess in front of me and zeroed in on the crap weasel standing in front of Coach Shea's office. If Tayla had seen him, she wouldn't have questioned who was behind the destruction. The perpetrator stood a measly yard and a half from us, and wore a bored expression.
Ryker Vaughn, Tayla's black-sheep cousin and all-around douche nozzle extraordinaire, was as noxious and irritating as he was handsome. Looking as though he were plucked straight out of one of those big-budget Clash of the Titans movies, he was chiseled like Hercules and rocked a massive Narcissus complex. Gorgeous, with stormy gray eyes and cropped, dark hair, dude thought he was the shizzle, and refused to give the meager masses the time of day. As deadly as he was handsome, there wasn't a person in Indigo Falls, or the surrounding counties, who wouldn't recognize his name: Ryker the Striker.
A humanized weapon of the martial arts variety, Ryker had spent a large portion of his eighteen years studying and perfecting Brazilian Jui-Juitsu and Muay Thai. The captain of the wrestling team at Douglas High before he graduated last year, he won two state championships and held the record for most wins and takedowns in a single season.
Unfortunately for him, neither his name, his good looks, or his martial arts skills saved him from the set of security cameras stationed around the building's perimeter. Why was he here talking to Coach Shea? Why wasn't his butt sitting in a jail cell somewhere?
I let my eyes wander from Ryker to the wreckage in front of me and frowned. The guy was more than capable of this type of demolition. What I couldn't understand was the why of it? He wasn't the world's friendliest guy, but I'd never known him to be outright destructive and criminal. Though, if I were being honest, I didn't really know him. I'd only crossed paths with him at a few of Tayla's family gatherings. He'd kept to his scowling self, barely uttering a word to anyone the entire time. Unsociable bastard.




Companion books in this series:
(each book is a separate story and do not have to be read in order)
 photo ExFactor-FinalWEB_zps56c5f109.jpg  photo Unbreakablev2-FinalWEB_zps4463314e.jpg

Links for Ex-Factor:

Links for Unbreakable:
GoodreadsAmazonBarnes & Noble

About the Author
I'm a lover of books (YA & Adult romance), chocolate, reality television, and am a proud mother to three All Star cheerleaders. Woot!
I write Contemporary YA romance with cheerleaders. Yep. I write what I know, and it's my hope that my stories will not only take you on a romantic journey that will warm your heart, but that you'll find a new respect and interest in the sport of Cheerleading you may not have had before.

Author Links:
   

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Thursday, January 15, 2015

Atlantis Rising by Gloria Craw Book Tour and Giveaway


Atlantis Rising


Release Date: 01/06/15

Entangled Teen

352 pages

 

Summary from Goodreads:

I am different. I have always been different, but no one can know or my life will be in danger. So I hide in plain sight, wearing drab clothes and thick glasses and trying to be invisible. I’m so good at hiding, no one has ever noticed me. Until Ian…the mysterious and oh-so-cute boy I know I need to avoid.

Now I have been seen. And more terrifying still, I am wanted—by those who would protect me and those who would destroy everything and everyone I love. But if they’re all terrified about who I am, wait until they see what I can do…

 


 

Buy Links:



Jennifer's Review:
 
First -- the cover - its a pretty amazing cover and I think people will pick up this book just for the cover but it is a bit misleading as to the  actual storyline. The reason is because when you think of the story of Atlantis, you think --underwater city that disappeared centuries ago where it is said mermaids live,  but in this story there are most definitely no mermaids. A different species, yes. The author did do a very nice job of mixing the myth of Atlantis that we all know into a more realistic theme that takes place in the current time period.

We enter the story knowing that Alison was adopted by the McKyes, prior to being adopted by them she spent a good deal of time bouncing around foster homes. She finally ended up with the McKeys -- a family that she adores and adores her. She has always known that she was different and when she meets a stranger at a park (3 years prior to the timeline of this book) he confirms her suspicions that she is in fact different and tells her that she’s a Dewing, a descendent of a superhuman species who were the original Atlantians. He also offers her some advice: "hide herself and her powers as there are people out there who would kill her family or harm her for her power".  

Since that interaction  with the stranger at the park 3 years prior she does a good job at remaining hidden until Ian and Brandi stroll into her school and her life.  They keep prodding Alison and Allison has no clue why these two want to be friends with her so badly when clearly she is trying to keep a low profile. Brandy won’t let Allison remain in the background and Ian points out that by trying to remain in the background  she is actually making herself more noticed as that's not normal teenage behavior (thankfully Ian points that out b/c that's what I was personally thinking the entire beginning of this book -- and it was kinda annoying me how much in the background she tried to remain and how she did it! It was pretty clear to me that how she was acting was making her stand out more as it very clearly wasn't normal).


At this point in the book the action seriously starts coming and you will not be able to  put the book down.


The characters are believable (even with all their special and cool talents). I liked the leading character, Allison but the side characters were all fantastic! Brandi was hilarious. Ian was extremely good-looking, broody, strong, but yet funny too. Even Lillian who put off a slightly scary vibe was awesome as by the end you really show her love for Allison shine through. Ian's Parents -- great additions to the story as well. The romance was light but you saw the connection between Alison and Ian. The backstory did not come quick enough for me. But once I understood more about the Dewing background the book became a page turner which I didn’t want to put down. While I thought there was a slow start, some parts of the book were a little rushed -- I had to actually turn back and see what character had what powers as they were kinda just thrown out there upon meeting the characters. They were all very cool powers.  I believe the book was written as a stand alone but I think this could easily become part of a series - and I really hope it does as I’d like to read more about what happens in the future to the characters. Would recommend for kids, young adults, and adults!
 

About the Author
Gloria Craw grew up in the desert southwest, inspired every day by the wide skies and rich colors around her. After high school, she attended the University of Utah where she majored and got a degree in anthropology. These days, she lives in the ‘burbs’ just outside of Seattle, Washington where she is the shepherd of a husband, four daughters and a very hairy dog. 

Author Links:   WebsiteGoodreadsTwitter

 


GIVEAWAY:

1st prize- Signed Book, ten dollar gift card to Barnes and Noble, Atlantis Rising notepad, pendant, signed bookmark and pen. (US only)

2nd prize- Signed Book, Atlantis Rising notepad, pendant, signed bookmark and pen. (US only)

Runners Up (3 total)- Atlantis Rising notepad, signed bookmark and pen. (US only)

 

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Friday, December 19, 2014

The Letting by Catherine Goldstein -Review and Giveaway




The Letting


Release Date: 12/15/14

335 pages

 Summary from Goodreads:

What if the Devil doesn’t know he’s the Devil?

This is the question Veronica “Ronnie” Billings poses to Phoenix, her sworn enemy, the leader of the Peaceful Revolution, and the one she loves.

Kidnapped by Phoenix’s rebels, Ronnie learns how wrong she has been. She had no idea that her patriotism was wasted on a corrupt government. Ronnie was proud to be a Leader; taking hundreds of harvested girls to the Letting facility. After all, she was saving them from future Couplings and bringing them to the safety of the New World. Or so she thought…

Confused, Ronnie realizes the only way to discover the truth is to trust her heart. Together, Phoenix and Ronnie devise a plan to stop their corrupt government and preempt the dangerous rebel coup which is approaching. But when their plan goes awry, will Ronnie be strong enough to save Phoenix, her country, and herself?

 
 
 Buy Links:Amazon


Jennifer's Review:

This story starts with the main character, Veronica "Ronnie"Billings, being a proud Leader (employed by the Government) at a camp for girls to prepare them for the "Letting". As a reader its really vague in the beginning what the Letting actually is - once you find out it will turn your stomach. Ronnie is well-known and praised for her role in preparing these young girls for this ritual. On the flip side she loved by the girls she is preparing and you can see that she truly loves and cares for them. She considers herself a patriot and is happy to help them get through the "letting" ritual  which afterwards they move on to their bright futures in the New World.... At least that's what she thought. When Ronnie is kidnapped by the rebels she discovers that she's been a pawn for a horrible government system and actually played a horrific role herself (unknowingly) in it.  I liked Ronnie has the female heroine -- when she believed in something, she put all of herself and heart into it, whether it was working  to do for her government and people or fighting for the children. She proved herself as clever, brave, and strong. 

The main male character was Phoenix - leader of the Peaceful Revolution. He had the same strong conviction in his ideals that Ronnie did. He believed in a peaceful revolution which was a nice change of pace in a book and in a character.

Ronnie and Phoenix were well matched, but it was too insta-love in the beginning for me. After the whole initial insta love beginning -- I felt the relationship went along at a good pace.

Farnsworth -- the leader of the New World who is using these young poor girls to preserve himself and keep others in the New World young. The whole concept of the letting and the use for the blood was so disturbing that I really couldn't think too much about it. With Farnsworth we get some glimpses into that he might actually have a heart but these glimpses disappear as quickly as they appear. I am interested in what the author will do with his character in the sequel.

The New World set up to me seemed a little like Hunger Games -- a society in this case focused on remaining young at the expense of others. This is a Dystopian novel so that wasn't surprising to find similarities. The plot was good for the most part. It took me a couple of chapters before I was fully drawn in to the story. I felt some of the back story was lacking and even the end I was left with a few questions. This book definitely ends with a all open cliffhanger.... So sequel....come FAST. :-)




 
 
 
About the Author
Given my love for cities and all that is gritty, my new obsession with trees really has me stumped. (Sorry.) Maybe it's because trees are the inspiration behind my new YA/NA novel, theLETTING.
Whatever the reason for my new infatuation, some things remain constant -- like my love for: coffee (although sadly, it's now decaf); yoga; Luna bars (I am petitioning for them to bring back Chocolate Raspberry!); running in my neighborhood; Hemingway; Bukowski... and, above all, my husband and my girls.

I am the author of the bestselling novel, Sleeping With Mortals: The Story of a New York Mistress, and I'm also a playwright. I have my B.A. in English and my M.A. in Theatre. 
 
WebsiteGoodreadsTwitterFacebook
 
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Thursday, December 4, 2014

Ruination by Amanda Thome - Reveiw, Tour, & Giveaway



Ruination (Worlds Apart #1)


Release Date: 04/15/14

Summary from Goodreads:

What if everything came down to a single test? If your life was defined at seventeen, could you handle it? Could you accept your fate leaving the ones you love, or would you risk it all and stay?

One test stands between Vanessa and Central. One chance to make the leap across the walls to a better life. At seventeen, Central considers Vanessa an adult. Her labor role, marriage, and housing divisions will be dictated by her performance on the leap.

Dedication and unfaltering friendship has bonded Vanessa to Garrett as they fight for their chance to leap into Central. But what happens when love overtakes reason? When defiance in the name of love creates an unintentional fracture in their nation.

Without warning Vanessa is at the mercy of the nation that’s supposed to protect her. Exiled and abandoned she must fight but she find’s she’s not alone. With her heart divided she seeks her revenge, but will her stand be enough?

Ruination is the next YA dystopian trilogy that will hook you from the start! If you liked Veronica Roth's Divergent series or Suzanne Collins Hunger Games series then be prepared to get addicted to Ruination.

 

 Buy Links:    AmazonBarnes & Noble


Jennifer's Review:
 
Nessa is a teen girl in a harsh world. The book starts off with her as a young girl and the first chapter is incredibly sad. So much that I didn't know if I wanted to keep going. I am glad I did as while that chapter was heartbreaking the pace picked up and it took on its dystopian feel. Mid way (once Nessa takes her "leap test" the book takes off & you will have a hard time putting it down) If you have read Hunger Games, Divergent, Matched etc..  you will see some of those "world" qualities in this book (which of course is to be expected since they are all in the same Genre). It is different and unique enough to hold your interest without a doubt and you may find yourself (as I did) enjoying the similarities.

Everyone's future is set and decided by a one day test. Starting at the age of 6 years old they start preparing for this "test" which occurs at 16 years old (10 years of "Education"). In addition to regular school topics, they learn survival techniques.  The test will decide which region they live in, their job, who they will marry, etc... There are three regions - the outer which is the poorer neighbourhoods, the inner - middle class and the central which is the Capital and the rich upper class society. The top male and female student gets the opportunity to move to Central and live a better life. It is the dream of every teen. Nessa hopes to make it with her best friend, and romantic interest, Garrett. They have trained hard for years for this day.


There were a few chapters that were told in the guy's voices, which was nice and I would of loved to see more of their POVs.

There are hints of a "love triangle". I myself am not a fan of the love triangles. So I hope that one just falls into a friendships and the other in the love interest.

All of the characters were well written.
Nessa: Strong & Independent. good lead female character
Garret: Sweet & Charming. Nessa's best friend since they were 5 years old. Would like to see more from his POV in the next book to really understand him better.
Ty: Mysterious, loyal, fierce
 The world leaves me curious to learn more. I am eager to read the next book, especially after the cliffhanger ending this one has. Rating: 3.5 stars

About the Author
Amanda Thome is the Author of Ruination, book one in the Worlds Apart dystopian trilogy. Amanda grew up in Maine and later moved to Pennsylvania where she obtained her bachelor’s degree from Ursinus College. She later received her doctorate degree in Physical Therapy from Columbia University. Amanda currently resides in San Antonio, TX with her husband Clint.


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