Always the Wedding Planner, Never the Bride by Sandra D. Bricker

Title:         Always the Wedding Planner, Never the Bride Publisher:  Abingdon Press Pub Date: October 03, 2011 ISBN:      9781426731600 Author:     Sandra D. Bricker As a wedding planner, you'd think she would have the perfect wedding experience... Sherilyn Caine has left Chicago behind to marry Andrew Drummond IV, an Atlanta native with a family name that tops all the social registers. Landing the job as The Tanglewood’s wedding planner is a piece of cake for someone with a Type A personality; she’s the perfect fit for a wedding destination hotel known for its attention to even the tiniest details. But when everything else is going along swimmingly, why are her own wedding plans drowning right before her eyes? One way or the other, Sherilyn is determined to make this wedding work—until the latest development threatens to call the whole thing off. Is it possible that Sherilyn is allergic to her fiance? About the Author For more than a decade, Sandra D. Bricker lived in Los Angeles and, while writing in every spare moment, worked as a personal assistant and publicist to some of daytime television's hottest stars. Since then she has written three novels for middle-grade readers and several romance novels, including unWANTED: Husband, Change of Heart, Sins of the Past, Wish I Weren't Here, Love Finds You in Snowball, Arkansas and The Big 5-0h!. Visit Sandra on the web at www.sandradbricker.com.  Follow Sandie on her blog at http://sandradbricker.blogspot.com.

This is a rather sweet story. As Sherilyn and Andrew do not get to know each others for long before they are engaged, they knew they are right for each other, but they are unsure if the other party are ready to settle down. Moreover they are moving to another town, starting the new life there. In this story, we see how they work out those insecurities, dealing with the new life in new town, and their past too. Actually it's not really a new town to them, but they both have left the place many years ago. I like the way how Andrew handles the issues, especially dealing with his mom and his ex-girl friend, very mature and letting them know about his thoughts very clearly. Sherilyn has her moments too but she handles herself very well. I like Emma. She plays this best friend's role very well. :)

Overall it is light-hearted and I enjoy reading it very much despite the pace is slightly on the slow side. I did not read the first book of the series, but I do not have any problem following this second book. And I certainly looking forward for the next book in the series.

I rate it 3 out of 5 stars.


Note: I receive the digital copy of this book from the publisher via Net Gallery. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.

Scrumptious by Amanda Usen

Title:         Scrumptious Publisher:  Sourcebooks Imprint:     Sourcebooks Casablanca Pub Date: January 01, 2012 ISBN:      9781402259821 Author:     Usen, Amanda Sparks fly between love 'em and leave 'em pastry chef and poker sharp Marlene Bennet and traveling chef-for-hire Joe Rafferty when the two culinary perfectionists are forced to share a kitchen. But several suspicious accidents at the restaurant convince Marlene and Joe to work together to uncover the saboteur. Maybe a little intrigue and high-stakes poker will be the perfect ingredients for these commitment-phobic foodies to whip up a happily ever after.

This is light-hearted and easy read, and fun too. And reading the yummy food that they make really made me mouth watering. Due to their background and history, they thought the other one is not the right person for them despite the chemistry between them. They are definitely good cooking partner for the restaurant. I like to see both of them "in action" on handling the orders from the diners. And how cool they are when reacting to those incidents that come up unexpectedly. On the other hand, I don't quite like Olivia. If she's Marlene's best friend, how come she's not telling everything to Marlene. In fact, she's sharing more of her issues to Joe than to Marlene.

The story is well written consider this is the author's debut novel. The character is well developed too. The ending may be a little rush, but nevertheless is a good ending. I enjoy reading it very much.

I rate it 4 out of 5 stars.


Note: I receive the digital copy of this book from the publisher via Net Gallery. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.

One Perfect Night by Rachael Johns

Title:         One Perfect Night Publisher:     Carina Press Pub Date:     December 19, 2011 ISBN:         9781426892912 Author:     Johns, Rachael Peppa Grant's fellow employees may call their new CEO Mr. McSexy, but she's also heard that he's aloof and distant. Cameron McCormac certainly seems cold toward Christmas when she meets him at the company's annual party...but he's also the sexiest man Peppa has ever seen. And when he offers to forgive the damage she accidentally caused to his expensive car in exchange for accompanying him to his family's holiday get-together, she agrees. Cameron needs a date to the family party to get his matchmaking relatives off his back. Their chemistry is instant and undeniable, leading to an incredible one-night stand. But Peppa wants love and family, while Cameron's only interested in temporary pleasure. When their relationship takes an unexpectedly serious turn, will he run the other way-or will he give love a second chance?

The story is kind of romantic and sweet. And yet both main characters were dealing with pain and loss. Both were struggling with their own emotion and hurt. Both enjoy each other accompaniment so much that, they did not realize they have actually fall in love with each other unintentionally.  And the incredible night together just made them crave for more, until things started getting out of control.

I like the story. It's very well written; especially this is the author's debut. Characters are well developed too. It's an easy read. I enjoy reading it very much. I rate it 4 out of 5 stars.



Note: I receive the digital ARC of this book from the publisher via Net Gallery. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.

The Ruby Kiss by Helen Scott Taylor

Title:         The Ruby Kiss Publisher:     Dorchester Publishing Imprint:     Dorchester Publishing Pub Date:     November 01, 2011 ISBN:         9781428511774 Author:     Helen Scott Taylor A POWERFUL NIGHTSTALKER Nightshade hungers to bring the strong and beautiful to their knees beneath the ecstasy of his bite, but he has never known sexual lust—not until he meets Ruby McDonald, the curvy redhead who wields attitude and strength like an ax, and who would be the perfect mother of his children. Caught in a clash between the Seelie and Unseelie courts, he vows not only her survival but also to win her heart. A MORTAL WITH A SECRET Plagued by magic inherited from a father she never knew, Ruby wants answers. Nightshade has them. And when he crashes into her bedroom late one night, the fairy’s silvery eyes, dark intensity, and striking black wings tempt her with a whole lot more: a mysterious world waiting to be explored, a dangerous love that binds her in body, mind, and spirit…and the children she thought she could never have. Ahead looms a choice between freedom and a power some would kill to possess. Should she deny her desires, or succumb to the seduction of… THE RUBY KISS

This is actually book 4 of The Magic Knot series. I actually have never read other books in the same series, but I don't really have much problem picking up this book. It is mostly about Nightshade and Ruby. How they met, and then how their relationship developed from then. There are lots of actions and adventure on this story. At times, I feel a little frustrated with Ruby. She is a goddess, she has power and yet she could not use her power. Each time she has to rely on others to protect her, to help her. And so coincidence, both Nightshade and Ruby have very selfish father, who only care about themselves and not the children. I like Troy and Devin though. Nightshade is so lucky to have them as his friend. As they are willing to do anything to help Nightshade and Ruby, even if require them to sacrifice themselves. The ending is good. If you like fantasy and paranormal, you may like this book.

I rate it 3 out of 5 stars.


Note: I receive the digital ARC of this book from the publisher via Net Gallery. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.

Lonestar Angel by Colleen Coble

Title:         Lonestar Angel Publisher:  Thomas Nelson Pub Date:  November 08, 2011 ISBN:       9781595542694 Author:     Colleen Coble Eden’s hope is rekindled when Clay delivers astounding news: their baby girl has been found. Five years ago Eden and Clay Larson’s baby was stolen. When they went to pay the ransom, what happened changed their lives forever—the kidnapper’s car with Baby Brianna inside sunk deep into the river. Eden blamed herself, Clay lost himself in work. Their young and rocky marriage ended. Or so Eden thought. Now Eden’s moved to a new town. She’s found faith and is trying to rebuild her life. She’s even dating again—a sweet guy named Kent who plans to marry her. But then Clay arrives out of the blue and delivers shocking news: he never signed their divorce papers, so they’re still married. What’s more, Clay has been searching for Brianna all this time.  And he believes he’s found her: their daughter is in Bluebird, Texas, at a youth ranch. All five little girls there are the right age—he’s just not sure which one is Brianna. Or how she survived. To uncover the truth, Eden and Clay sign on as counselors at Bluebird Ranch. They move into small quarters in the bunkhouse and oversee the kids as they try to find out more. Working together, they rediscover their love for each other. But danger is closing in—Eden, Clay, and all their young charges are in jeopardy. As they fight to save their family, Eden realizes that God has been fighting for them all along. And His plans are for a more abundant life than they’d ever hoped.

I always love Christian fiction and this is another good read. It is a very touching story. A father who refused to give up hope searching on his child; a husband who refused to sign the divorce paper as he still loves his wife. And yet the wife did not know about this, until 5 years later. Actually both Clay and Eden love each other. However due to their shotgun marriage, and the nature of Clay's job required him to travel around the places, they didn't spend enough time with each other to understand each other well. Spending their time in Bluebird ranch now give them a very good chance to know more about each other. I'm really glad that at that important moment, Clay told Eden about his feeling.

I like the pace of the story; it is not too fast and yet not too slow. We are able to see the interactions between Clay and Eden, and their interactions with the 5 children, and the constant guessing which girl actually is their daughter. I was captivated by the story right from page 1 and besides guessing who's Brianna, I also keep on thinking who could be the kidnapper. There are few twists which adding more suspense to the story, and making things more complicated. As usual, I could not get my guesses right and the answers are revealed at the end.

I enjoy reading this book very much and I rate it 4 out of 5 stars.



Note: I receive the digital ARC of this book from the publisher via Net Gallery. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.

By the Light of the Silvery Moon by Tricia Goyer

Title:         By the Light of the Silvery Moon Publisher:  Barbour Publishing, Inc. Pub Date:  March 01, 2012 ISBN:       9781616265519 Author:     Tricia Goyer Destiny Brought Them Together. Will Tragedy Draw Them Apart? Amelia Gladstone’s mind is filled with promise as she gazes at the marvelous new ship, ready for its maiden voyage. The Titanic holds the promise of a reunited family. . .and of possible love waiting on American shores. Nothing could mar Amelia’s joy, until she sees a ragged stowaway being escorted down the gangplank. Down-and-out after squandering his fortune, Quentin Walpole thought his voyage to America ended on the Southampton pier. Then a sweet lady—his angel of mercy named Amelia—secured his passage with a spare ticket. Now he’s headed to America, eager for a second chance. But once the voyage begins, the past confronts Quentin when he discovers that his wealthy railroad tycoon father and older brother Damien are also on board. As Amelia tries to bring about reconciliation between father and son, she suddenly finds herself the center of both brothers’ attention with a choice to make: Who can she trust with her heart? Then the fateful night arrives, and one brother faces a greater choice. Will Amelia’s fate ultimately be one of love or loss?

It's a novel about Titanic 100 years after its doomed voyage. It's a story about Quentin and Amelia.  

Amelia was a very kind lady and liked to help those in need. Her kindness brought Quentin to the ship and a chance for her to get to know him better. Quentin knew he should run away, but he could not help being attracted to Amelia. At the same time, Quentin's brother Damien also had set his heart on Amelia.

I like Amelia this character a lot. I like the way she treated Quentin, how she managed to open his heart to face his past. I also like the way she saw in people - not by judging their look and appearance, but by their heart. Even though Quentin had nothing to offer her, but a kind heart was all she wants. It's a very touching story. I was hooked to it right from the beginning. The author just has her way of making me want to keep turning the pages to find out who Amelia would give her heart to. I love the ending. It's a perfect ending.

I enjoy reading this book very much. I rate it 4 out of 5 stars.


Note: I receive the digital ARC of this book from the publisher via Net Gallery. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.

Rules of Attraction (Perfect Chemistry #2) by Simone Elkeles

From Goodreads: When Carlos Fuentes returns to America after living in Mexico for the past year, he doesn't want any part of the life his older brother, Alex, has laid out for him in Colorado. When he meets Kiara Westford, a good girl totally unlike any of the girls he's usually drawn to, Carlos assumes Kiara thinks she's too good for him. But will he put his pride aside when he realizes that being with Kiara might finally allow him to be his true self?

Did I say I love Perfect Chemistry? And I do love this book 2 about Carlos too. It's written in similar writing style as Perfect Chemistry, a narration alternating between Carlos and Kiara. I started to like this kind of writing style - getting inside the head of both main characters. I was a little frustrating with Carlos actually. Why he kept the thing to himself without telling his brother Alex about it. I guess it's guys thing. Anyway, no matter how bad he is I just could not hate him. I like Kiara too. She's different from other girls. And she had an amazing parents! A parents that respect her, trust her, treat her as an adult. They were very open minded. I like the way her dad talked to her and Carlos. I wanted to learn from him on how to communicate with my kids. :) 

Carlos did not like Kiara at the beginning actually. And likewise for Kiara. It was fun to see how they interacted with each other, and how their relationship developed naturally. The pace was good. I simply cant' put down this book as I was eager to know what would happen to Carlos. 


I enjoy this book very much. I rate it 4 out of 5 stars. 

The Wedding Gift by Kathleen McKenna

Title:         The Wedding Gift Publisher:  Bell Bridge Books Pub Date:  October 19, 2011 ISBN:        9781611940527 Author:      Kathleen McKenna From Goodreads: 17 year old Leeann Worthier is the perfect girl in town - or so she says. George Willets is the heir to a booming petroleum business. When they announce their engagement, George's controlling mother is unimpressed and Leeann absolutely refuses to live with her mother-in-law. So George gives his new wife a house as a wedding gift. Thirty years before, the same house had hosted a grisly scene: George's uncle and cousins had all been slaughtered, his aunt Robina accused of both murder and suicide. The house is a gorgeous, well-maintained mansion but has stood empty since the tragedy. It's intimidating, but who is Leeann to turn down a free house? When the ghost of Robina begins to haunt Leeann, she realizes she's made a huge mistake ... "A rip roaring murderously good time," Tiffany Harkleroad of Tiffany's Bookshelf.

This book is totally out of my expectation. I don't mean it's badly written, but I never expect it's a journal. It's actually Leeann's journal. So it's in first POV, with Leeann narrating the story from beginning until the end. Thus you only get one side of the story. Surprisingly it is not boring at all. She started with how she get to know George and how they got married, and what happened after that.  Leeann was just 17 years old and she's a funny person. So you have to set your expectations on the way a 17 years old girl will talk, as this is how she wrote her journal. Some people may find the haunted house creepy, but not to me. I'm not sure what should I expect from a 17 years old, but I do find Leeann a little immature and too vain. But being forced into marriage seems do make her grow. She was lucky to have a very good friend that always there for her. The ending was unexpected but it's a good ending. It's a story with some romance, mystery, suspense and horror.

I rate this book 3 out of 5 stars.

Note: I receive the digital ARC of this book from the publisher via Net Gallery. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.

The Dragon and the Pearl by Jeannie Lin

Title:         The Dragon and the Pearl Publisher:  Harlequin Imprint:     Harlequin Historical Pub Date:  September 20, 2011 ISBN:       9780373296620 Author:     Jeannie Lin THE MOST BEAUTIFUL COURTESAN OF THEM ALL... Former Emperor’s consort Ling Suyin is renowned for her beauty; the ultimate seductress. Now she lives quietly alone—until the most ruthless warlord in the region comes and steals her away.... Li Tao lives life by the sword, and is trapped in the treacherous, lethal world of politics. The alluring Ling Suyin is at the center of the web. He must uncover her mystery without falling under her spell—yet her innocence calls out to him. How cruel if she, of all women, can entrance the man behind the legend....

This is my first historical romance that take place in China during 8th century. The story is very interesting. It is beautifully written with details description of the settings, places, people and even their emotion. It's mostly about the romance between Ling Suyin and Li Tao with minimum actions. It gives a good insight of the position and role of the women during that time. Ling suyin was a very smart and strong lady. She definitely knows how to survive and on her best not allowing others to take advantage on her. She's not only save herself, but she was saying other people's life too. And trying to turn around the situation to make it in favor to her. It's very interesting to see how Li Tao interacts with her. They were attracted to each other and yet they were fear of the relationship, as they were aware of their own destiny and they have no future to be together. I like the little suspense element blended in the story which make the whole thing even more interesting. I like the ending. It's a very good ending.

I enjoy reading it very much and I rate it 4 out of 5 stars.


Note: I receive the digital ARC of this book from the publisher via Net Gallery. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.

The Guardian by Robbie Cheuvront and Erik Reed

Title:         The Guardian Publisher:  Barbour Publishing, Inc. Imprint:     Barbour Books Pub Date:  09/01/2011 ISBN:       9781616262785 Author:     Robbie Cheuvront and Erik Reed Plunge into the world of seen and unseen forces in The Guardian. Anna Riley has just come into possession of a two-thousand-year old scroll that God gave to John the Disciple. Her mission—to guard the scroll and unlock its secret. Jason Lang, her protector, has his work cut out for him as they begin their journey around the world, facing corruption and dodging bullets—all the while trying to keep his attraction to Anna at bay. Will he succeed in defending the woman he’s vowed to protect? Will Anna, forced to trust other people to stay alive, fulfill the challenge that she’s accepted?

This story is full of actions, running from one place to another. After Anna had accepted the duty from her grandfather, to complete the task from God, her life was no longer same. Within few days, she had to run away from the bad people and witnessed death, and more death along the journey. She learnt to trust and have faith in God, on completing this task. What made me sad is, why so many good people have to die. And many times, I was very worry for Anna when the bad people were catching up on her.

I enjoy the Christian values that was being presented throughout the whole book. The pace is good. The story also flows smoothly. I feel the ending was a bit rush, nonetheless it's a good book. I enjoy reading it very much.

I rate this book 4 out of 5 stars.

Note: I receive the digital ARC of this book from the publisher via Net Gallery. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.

Perfect Chemistry (Perfect Chemistry #1) by Simone Elkeles

From Goodreads: A fresh, urban twist on the classic tale of star-crossed lovers. When Brittany Ellis walks into chemistry class on the first day of senior year, she has no clue that her carefully created “perfect” life is about to unravel before her eyes. She’s forced to be lab partners with Alex Fuentes, a gang member from the other side of town, and he is about to threaten everything she's worked so hard for—her flawless reputation, her relationship with her boyfriend, and the secret that her home life is anything but perfect. Alex is a bad boy and he knows it. So when he makes a bet with his friends to lure Brittany into his life, he thinks nothing of it. But soon Alex realizes Brittany is a real person with real problems, and suddenly the bet he made in arrogance turns into something much more. In a passionate story about looking beneath the surface, Simone Elkeles breaks through the stereotypes and barriers that threaten to keep Brittany and Alex apart.

I love this book, very very much. It was beautifully written. When I was reading this book, I feel that the pictures were running in front of me, as if I was watching a movie rather than reading a book. The story is written in first POV, alternating between Brittany and Alex. Alex supposed was a bad boy. However he's a likeable character. I find his character is very interesting. A bad boy, and yet he did nothing that make me dislike him. Even if he bet with his friend on luring Brittany, but then he regretted it. Brittany seems having a perfect life. But she was just doing it as a show. I like how she loves her sister, how she takes care her sister, to the extent that her sister is in her future plan. The relationship between Alex and Brittany was developed naturally. And it was fun to see how they interact with each other. The pace is good. The story also flows very smoothly despite the chapters are alternating between Alex and Brittany. I simply can't put down this book. And it's a book that I will read again.

I rate this book 5 out of 5 stars.

Hermie, a Common Caterpillar By Max Lucado

Book Description This Max Lucado’s Hermie & Friends® best-selling story now available in easy-to-read format! Hermie and his friend Wormie have always felt common. They don’t have stripes or dots, they aren’t very strong, and they can’t find anything special about themselves. But every time they pray, God tells them that He loves them all the time just as they are and that He isn’t finished with them yet. When Hermie becomes a beautiful butterfly, he realizes just how special God’s plan is for him! This classic story has been revised for kids to read and enjoy on their own as a Lever 2 Reader. With fresh new art and a story kids can read themselves, plus a new, low price—this classic story will find a whole new generation of kids who love Hermie and his garden friends!

The kids love the beautiful illustrations of the book. The story is simple and yet pass an important message to the children - that everyone is unique and special; that God has a plan for everyone of us. We should not compare ourselves with others, as my daughter likes to ask me lots of questions about comparing herself to this friend and that friend etc. Not only children, even we as adult we also will tend to compare with other people who we thought are better than us. This is also a good story to teach us to be patience, as sometimes it is just not the right timing yet and we should not simply rush for it. We need to have more faith and trust in God.

I rate this book 4 out of 5 stars.


Note: I received this book free from the publisher through the BookSneeze.com book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

There You'll Find Me by Jenny B. Jones

Title:         There You'll Find Me Publisher:  Thomas Nelson Pub Date: 10/04/2011 ISBN:      9781595545404 Author:     Jenny B Jones From Goodreads: In a small cottage house in rural Ireland, Finley discovers she can no longer outrun the past. When Finley travels to Ireland as a foreign exchange student, she hopes to create a new identity and get some answers from the God who took her brother away and seems to have left her high and dry. But from the moment she boards the plane and sits by Beckett Rush, teen star of the hottest vampire flicks, nothing goes according to Finley's plan. When she gets too close to Beckett, a classmate goes on a mission to make sure Finley packs her bags, departs Ireland-and leaves Beckett alone. Finley feels the pressure all around. As things start to fall apart, she begins to rely on a not-so-healthy method of taking control of her life. Finley tries to balance it all-disasters on the set of Beckett's new movie, the demands of school, and her growing romance with one actor who is not what he seems. Yet Finley is also not who she portrays to Beckett and her friends. For the first time in her life, Finley must get honest with herself to get right with God.

I love the last book that I read from Jenny B. Jones. So when I saw her new book was available at netgalley, I couldn't resist not to request it. And I know I will regret if I did not get to read this book, as this is a good book.

The story line is very simple - Finley Sinclair's experiences in Ireland as a foreign exchange student. She had chosen Ireland because she wanted to retrace the footsteps of her brother, Will, who had been killed in a terrorist attack two years ago. She had gone through a hard time after her brother was killed, and she was still struggling with coping the loss of her brother. Will left a traveling journal when he was in Ireland. Finley wanted to follow the footsteps to see what her brother had seen, and also to find a way to change her life. 

In this trip, Finley had to learn to deal with Beckett Rush, a young and famous actor who was not her type; the girls at school who was giving her some tough time; the assignment on a local nursing home, where the woman she was assigned with, Mrs Sweeney, was dying. Finley feared that she could not cope with another death after losing her brother. However on the process on helping Mrs Sweeney, and Finley's constant interaction with Beckett, Finley learnt that not everything that she saw must be the truth. I like the parts between Finley and her music teacher Sister Maria, who tells her to listen to the God.

The story was beautifully written. It is very inspiring, and very realistic story. I enjoy reading this book very much. I rate it 5 out of 5 stars.


Note: I receive the digital ARC of this book from the publisher via Net Gallery. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.

Dream Lover by Adrienne Staff

Title:         Dream Lover SubTitle:   A Loveswept Classic Romance Publisher:  Random House Publishing Group Imprint:     Loveswept Pub Date: 08/08/2011 ISBN:      9780307799111 Author:     Adrienne Staff The mystical allure of the Arizona desert—and a rugged, sexy tour guide—bring hope and happiness to a woman haunted by tragedy in this romance from Adrienne Staff. All hotel manager Carol Lawson wants from her new life in Carefree, Arizona, is to stay busy. Work and more work keep regrets from flooding back. But from the moment tall, dark, and delicious Cody Briggs strides into her life, Carol feels a little reckless. He is a vision out of her dreams-a powerful renegade determined to awaken her senses and heal her broken spirit. Cody knows whatit's like to feel betrayed by life. A renowned archeologist who refused to trade integrity for profit, he's faced his demons. But he understands the healing power of this breathtaking land-and in Carol's timeless beauty and sensuality, he sees the perfect woman to share it with. Can ecstasy bring Carol to the point of no return, where a leap of faith promises a love that is destiny?

The story is quite interesting and easy read. The beginning was quite captivating, made me wondering about the dream that Carol was having, and what kind of bad experience that she had giving her such grief. But after Carol repeatedly thinking Cody was not for her due to her past, I feel the story becomes a little draggy. However very soon the story moves on after that. I like the little here and there on the native American culture, which is something new to me.

I rate this book 3 out of 5 stars.


Note: I receive the digital ARC of this book from the publisher via Net Gallery. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.

Water's Edge By Robert Whitlow

Book Description: Sometimes the smallest towns hold the biggest secrets. Ambitious young attorney Tom Crane is about to become a partner in a big-city law firm. One final matter has to be cleared from his docket—the closing of his deceased father’s law practice in the small town of Bethel. Killed in a tragic boating accident, John Crane didn’t leave his son anything except the hassle of a bankrupt estate. Then, within twenty-four hours, Tom loses his job, his girlfriend, and his cat. Job didn’t have it much worse. Returning to Bethel with his pride ground to powder, Tom’s plan to quietly shut down his father’s practice and slink out of town runs into an unexpected roadblock—two million dollars of unclaimed money stashed in a secret bank account. Tom follows the money into a tangled web of lies, theft, and off-shore financial transactions manipulated by powerful men who will do anything to stop him from discovering the truth.

I found this book is very inspiring. Unlike his father, Tom was not a very religions person. It is very interesting to see how he gets closer to the God, and refer to bible for guidance and answers. From losing his job, eventually he got few good options what he would like to do after he had settled his father's business. Just as he thought he had finally settled the matter, something unexpected and turned his life totally upside down. He did not know who to trust anymore. The story has a good pace, though I feel towards the ending was a little rush. Nevertheless it's a good ending and I enjoy reading it very much. I was feeling a little down and depressed but this book has uplifted my mood tremendously.

I rate this book 4 out of 5 stars.


Note: I received this book free from the publisher through the BookSneeze.com book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255 : Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.

Menu for Romance by Kaye Dacus

Title:         Menu for Romance SubTitle:   Brides of Bonneterre Book Two Publisher:  Barbour Publishing Inc. Imprint:     Barbour Books Pub Date:  07/01/2009 ISBN:       9781602604551 Author:     Dacus, Kaye From Goodreads: Cater to your craving for fabulous fictional fare with Menu for Romance, where a party planner finds herself torn between the contractor and the cook. After eight years of unrequited love, Meredith Guidry makes a New Year's resolution to find someone new and end her single status before the year's over. And when she meets a handsome contractor on New Year's Day, it seems like her prayers have been answered.Executive Chef Major O'Hara has forsworn relationships, knowing he could never saddle the woman he loves with a family situation like his. But when it seems he's about to lose Meredith Guidry to another man, he realizes he must concoct a menu for romance to win her back.

Meredith Guidry had been having crush for her work mate Chef Major O'Hara for 8 years. With having a traditional mindset, she believed the guy should make the move. On the other hand, Major loved Meredith for very long time too. Due to past experiences, and also struggling with his life and career, he was worried about being rejected and thought that Meredith was better with someone else other than him. I think Major was keeping too much things to himself. If he tells his best friends about his mom, I'm sure he did not have to give up those important things in his life. From many books and even in real life, I have learnt that honestly is important in relationship. Things get so much better after Meredith told the contractor about her feeling with him. Similarly after Meredith learn the truth about Major's mom. We not necessary must suffer or struggle alone. Sometimes it's alright to ask supports and help from family and friends who care for us.

It is an inspirational story. I enjoy reading this book very much. And I'm looking forward to read more books from Dacus. I rate this book 4 out of 5 stars.


Note: I receive the digital copy of this book from the publisher via Net Gallery. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.

The Surgeon's Secret Baby by Ann Christopher

Title:         The Surgeon's Secret Baby SubTitle:   Hopewell General Publisher:  Harlequin Imprint:     KimaniRomance Pub Date:  09/06/2011 ISBN:       9780373862252 Author:     Ann Christopher Sensuality heals. Love cures. Lia Taylor needs Thomas Bradshaw like she’s never needed anyone before. The hunky, super-ambitious Head of Surgery at Hopewell General is the only one who can save her young son. Falling for the seductive surgeon is a prescription for trouble. But there’s no cure for her smitten condition once Thomas brands her with his sensual touch. The scion of a powerful family, Thomas has vowed to devote his life to healing others. Having an affair with the alluring computer wiz and single mother could cost the workaholic doc his career at the prominent, scandal-plagued Virginia hospital. Especially if his explosive secret gets out. But Thomas can’t give Lia up. His diagnosis? A future together filled with all the love their hearts can hold.…

What would be your reaction when one day a woman approaches you and tell you that you are the father of her 8 years old son from the sperm that you have donated to a sperm bank? I would say Thomas handled the whole thing very well. And I admire Lia for her courage to do anything just to save her son, Jalen. She did not have much choice too as none of her family members including herself, is a match to donate the kidney to save Jalen. Besides saving his son, Thomas was very attracted to Lia. Even though Lia was trying very hard to resist Thomas, but she could not deny the intense chemistry between them. And Jalen's a gem! He's smart and witty, well brought up by Lia. He would say something that out of your expectation, making their parents' jaw dropped.

Overall, it was a light-hearted and easy read. And fun too! I was actually chuckling all the way. The story is sweet and heart-warming. I enjoy reading it very much.

I rate it 4 out of 5 stars.



Note: I receive the digital ARC of this book from the publisher via Net Gallery. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.

The Royal Treatment by Lindsey Leavitt

Title:         The Royal Treatment SubTitle:    A Princess for Hire Book Publisher:   Disney-Hyperion Pub Date:  05/03/2011 ISBN:       9781423121930 Author:     Lindsey Leavitt What girl wouldn't swoon over outrageous perks like free jewelry, designer clothes, and the chance to hang out with crush-worthy Prince Karl? But best of all, Desi gets one-on-one time with Genevieve, the head of the super-secret and ultra glamorous Façade agency. She's taken a special interest in Desi's magical abilities. But between Desi's BEST (Betterment of Elite Sub Training) program, starting the eighth grade, trying out for the school play, and dealing with the cute-but-bossy new boy Reed, she's beginning to feel like she's in over her head.  Even worse, when Desi learns a secret about the magic that keeps Façade running, she realizes that not everything is as perfect as it seems. Full of humor and heart, this second installment in the Princess for Hire series shows Desi that the royal treatment may just be masking mysteries, and only she can uncover the truth....one princess at a time!

The story is fun, girlish and suitable for any pre-teen girls who like to read about princess and stuff. It was about the adventures of Desi being a princess for hire for any princess in the world that wants to take a break from the royal life; and the real Desi when she was not on any princess duty. Imagine you get to be a princess, enjoying the royal life even though just a temporary substitute. The story is fun, humorous and filled with good moral values. It is a light-hearted and easy read. While you may enjoy more if you have the first book in the series, but it's alright to read this as standalone too. 

I rate it 3 out of 5 stars.


Note: I receive the digital copy of this book from the publisher via Net Gallery. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.

Legends by Deborah Smith

Title:         Legends SubTitle:   A Loveswept Classic Romance Publisher:  Random House Publishing Group Imprint:     Loveswept Pub Date:  08/08/2011 ISBN:       9780307796660 Author:     Deborah Smith New York Times bestselling author Deborah Smith evokes the stunning beauty of Scotland in this spin on the clan wars-as a sexy CEO finds himself abducted by a brazen beauty determined to save her village. Elgiva MacRoth descends from a long line of bold Scots willing to fight for their heritage. When her picturesque town comes under siege by a corporate raider, she devises a daring plan to stop billionaire Douglas Kincaid. But kidnapping a man off the rooftop of his penthouse and holding him hostage proves far less complicated than saving herself from his intoxicating sensual assault. The stunning beauty with her golden eyes and fighting spirit make captivity feel like a fantasy. The desire heating up is enough to make them both forget the battle, and surrender to something far more pleasurable. But Douglas has his own dreams for this lovely spot of Scottish land. And he has a proposal that he hopes will convince Elgiva to give up her hard line and give in to him in every way that matters. With a warrior's will, he's fighting for his legacy, his heart, and the woman of his dreams. About the author Deborah Smith is the author of such well-loved novels as A Place to Call Home, Blue Willow, and Miracle. She lives in Georgia.

This is a fun and easy read. The story is simple. And the chemistry between Elgiva and Douglas definitely was there. I like Douglas's dog, Sam that tried not to be sided with either his master Douglas or Elgiva while his master was being held as captive. It was also fun to read how Douglas was trying to torture Elgiva from his cell. And Elgiva loved her people so much that she was willing to risk herself to preserve the place for her people. I like the way Douglas dealt with the situation. He was quick to adjust himself to his environment. And after he had found out the truth and being confronted by Elgiva and her people, he was so cool and settled the whole thing in favour of everyone, including himself.

The story is rather short. You can easily finish reading it within few hours. It is fun and entertaining. I enjoy reading it very much. I rate it 4 out of 5 stars.


Note: I receive the digital copy of this book from the publisher via Net Gallery. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.

Dead Beautiful by Yvonne Woon

From Goodreads: On the morning of her sixteenth birthday, Renée Winters was still an ordinary girl. She spent her summers at the beach, had the perfect best friend, and had just started dating the cutest guy at school. No one she'd ever known had died. But all that changes when she finds her parents dead in the Redwood Forest, in what appears to be a strange double murder. After the funeral Renée’s wealthy grandfather sends her to Gottfried Academy, a remote and mysterious boarding school in Maine, where she finds herself studying subjects like Philosophy, Latin, and the “Crude Sciences.” It’s there that she meets Dante Berlin, a handsome and elusive boy to whom she feels inexplicably drawn. As they grow closer, unexplainable things begin to happen, but Renée can’t stop herself from falling in love. It’s only when she discovers a dark tragedy in Gottfried’s past that she begins to wonder if the Academy is everything it seems. Little does she know, Dante is the one hiding a dangerous secret, one that has him fearing for her life. Dead Beautiful is both a compelling romance and thought-provoking read, bringing shocking new meaning to life, death, love, and the nature of the soul.

This is the first book for the Dead Beautiful series. I actually read the second book before reading this first book. So I sort of knowing their relationship but it does not hinder me from enjoying reading this book 1.

Renee was devastated after foung both of her parents were died on her sixteenth birthday. And then she had to leave her best friend and other friends behind to go to a boarding school where she had no friend there at all. And I would say she handled it very well, show that she's independent.

Most part of the book was about Renee's life in Gottfried Academy. Despite the strict school rules, with the interesting subjects, new friends, and things that happened last summer at that school, made Renee's new life very much interesting and adventurous. Imagine the excitement sneaked out the bedroom through fire place after the curfew; secretly dating a guy who did not socialize with the other students; being called to headmistress for breaking the school rules. Renee was a smart girl, and always speak for her mind despite it got her into trouble. And she determined to find out the truth of her parent's death, as well as what happened last summer in Gottfried.

With the new environment and new friends, Renee started drifting apart with her previous best friend. While her roommate Eleanor became her best friend. I actually feel pity to Eleanor, as what had happened to her was not her fault. She was a victim. A very unfortunate for her. The ending was unexpected.

In overall, it was a good read to me. There was enough mystery and suspense to make me keep on turning the pages searching for the answer. There were also some "oh no" moments that made me worry for Renee, eager to know what would happen to her.

I rate this book 4 out of 5 stars.

Lucky Girl by Cate Lord

Title:         Lucky Girl Publisher:  Entangled Publishing, LLC Pub Date: 09/06/2011 ISBN:      9781937044213 Author:     Cate Lord Jessica Devlin isn’t looking for love. Heartbroken after being dumped by her unfaithful ex-fiancé, she’s determined to have a fabulous time during her vacation in England where she’ll be maid-of-honor at her cousin’s wedding. After working overtime as beauty editor of Orlando’s O Tart magazine, avoiding dating, and putting on ten pounds, Jess is ready to toss her past like an empty lipstick tube and party like a single gal. But when she steps into the church on her cousin’s wedding day, she sees the one man who could sabotage her plan—James-Bond-gorgeous Nick Mondinello. She’s never forgotten the London marketing exec who held her in his arms after her beloved grandfather’s funeral two years ago. Ambitious, and lusted after by women everywhere, Nick is completely wrong for guarded, Plain Jane Jess. Could Spy Man Nick ever fall for her? Nope. Not unless Jess is one lucky girl.

Normally I won't choose to read Chic lit. But I did not regret reading this book. In fact, I quite enjoy reading it. It is light-hearted and easy read. It's fun reading what's inside Jessica's mind, although I found some of her imaginations were hilarious. Despite fussing about the extra 10 pounds, I like that she did not cut down on her food intake and her cravings on something sweet. While Nick was projected as playboy by Jessica's cousins, I don't think it mentioned what made Nick attracted to Jess besides that they had met 2 years ago during that one night at the bar and they were physically attracted. Besides that I also think their relationship was too fast. But put this aside, if you want something light and funny, this is a book for you.

I rate it 3 out of 5 stars.


Note: I receive the ARC of this book from the publisher via Net Gallery. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.

The Demon Lover by Juliet Dark

Title:         The Demon Lover Publisher:  Random House Publishing Group Imprint:     Ballantine Books Pub Date: 12/27/2011 ISBN:      9780345526274 Author:     Juliet Dark I gasped . . . or tried to. My mouth opened, but I couldn’t draw breath. . . . His lips, pearly wet, parted and he blew into my mouth. My lungs expanded beneath his weight. When I exhaled he sucked in my breath and his weight turned from cold marble into warm living flesh. Since accepting a teaching position at remote Fairwick College in upstate New York, Callie McFay has experienced the same disturbingly erotic dream every night: A mist enters her bedroom, then takes the shape of a virile, seductive stranger who proceeds to ravish her in the most toe-curling, wholly satisfying ways possible. Perhaps these dreams are the result of writing her bestselling book, The Sex Lives of Demon Lovers. After all, Callie’s lifelong passion is the intersection of lurid fairy tales and Gothic literature—which is why she finds herself at Fairwick’s renowned folklore department, living in a once-stately Victorian house that, at first sight, seemed to call her name. But Callie soon realizes that her dreams are alarmingly real. She has a demon lover—an incubus—and he will seduce her, pleasure her, and eventually suck the very life from her. Then Callie makes another startling discovery: He’s not the only mythical creature in Fairwick. As the tenured witches of the college and the resident fairies in the surrounding woods prepare to cast out the incubus, Callie must accomplish something infinitely more difficult—banishing this demon lover from her heart. Juliet Dark is the pseudonym of an award-winning and critically acclaimed literary suspense writer.

Firstly, the book cover is very beautiful. The pace of the book at the beginning was rather slow. In fact, the pace throughout the whole book was not fast. However there was enough mystery and suspense that made me keep on reading, searching for the answer. The author was very good at the detail description with the setting, which make the whole thing looks creepy and mysterious. There are quite a number of characters in this book. I was wondering who is friend and who is enermy. And you have to read until the very last page to figure it out.

Despite the pace, the story was beautifully written. Callie is strong, independent and soft hearted too. She knows what she wants. I do not like her bf, Paul. Even though Callie was hiding something from him, I guess he could be more sensitive and give more trust to her. It was rather unexpected to me knowing about her grandma's real identity. I like the part when Callie tried to banish the incubus the very first time. However when she was doing it the second time towards the end, I was like "huh that's it? So easy?" that kind of feeling. I thought it would be more challenging.

In summary, it was a good read - dark and mysterious. I rate this book 4 out of 5 stars.

Note: I receive the ARC of this book from the publisher via Net Gallery. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.

Turnabout's Fair Play by Kaye Dacus

Title:         Turnabout's Fair Play Publisher:     Barbour Publishing, Inc. Pub Date:     11/01/2011 ISBN:         9781602609914 Author:     Kaye Dacus The Matchmaker Has Met Her Match. . . Jamie O’Connor knows his grandmother Maureen has matchmaking on the mind when she starts inviting him to events where single women are present. Realizing she’s somewhat smitten with an older gentleman, Jamie decides to turn the tables on Maureen by agreeing to meet Kirby McNeill’s granddaughter Flannery at dinner—with both grandparents there. Flan is thrilled that her widowed grandfather is now attending church. So when he invites her to meet a grandson of a woman from his single seniors’ group, she agrees to go along—only to encourage her grandfather. Then Flan winds up conspiring with Jamie to play matchmaker, too, and soon wonders how she’ll be able to tolerate spending so much time with Jamie and his over-inflated ego. As the juniors scheme to bring the seniors together, a hilarious tumult of mayhem and misconceptions ensues. . .but will it end in romance?

It is a light-hearted and easy read. The story is heart warming and sweet. And I like the sense of humour that author has blended into the story, which make the story more alive. I was laughing, smiling and giggling all the way. 

The story is quite realistic too. I get to see the not-so-perfect hero and heroine. I also like the religious element in the story. The plot is simple. The author has done a brilliant job on the way how Jamie and Flannery were brought together; how they interacted with each other; and how Jamie respected Flan. Their relationship was developed naturally. Majority of the story is about Jamie and Flan. Although there was not much about the sub characters, they play an important role to Jamie and Flan, especially Flan. Friendship is the main component in the story.

I enjoy reading this book very much. If you are looking for something light and funny, this is the book for you. I rate it 4 out of 5 stars.


Note: I receive the ARC of this book from the publisher via Net Gallery. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.

The Black Stiletto by Raymond Benson

Title:         The Black Stiletto Publisher:  Oceanview Publishing Pub Date:  09/05/2011 ISBN:       9781608090204 Author:     Raymond Benson “My mother was the masked vigilante known as The Black Stiletto.” Was Martin Talbot’s elderly, Alzheimer’s-stricken mother really the Black Stiletto? When he discovers several hidden volumes of her diaries, he is stunned beyond all imagination. In them, Judy Talbot claims to be the renowned underground heroine who operated in late 1950s New York City, battled Communist spies, took on the Mafia, and stalked common crooks. In a fascinating story that alternates between past and present, the Black Stiletto’s legend unfolds. What caused her to begin her quest for justice? Why did she decide to act outside the law? What are the facts behind her feats as the infamous and feared crime-fighter? As Talbot struggles with shocking revelations, the reappearance of one of the Stiletto’s old enemies with a thirst for merciless revenge threatens to jeopardize his mother’s closely-guarded secret—and her life.

The story is written in first POV, switching between Martin, Judy and Roberto (Stiletto’s old enemies). However majority of the story is from Judy's diaries. She wrote down her background, what happened to her, how she becomes Black Stiletto, and the adventures after that. It is actions packed, and details fight scenes allow you to imagine the fights visually. Some parts are quite emotional too.

At first I thought reading a journal is boring but I was wrong. It was beautifully written and made me just want to keep on reading and reading. I actually enjoy the part on Judy's diaries the most. I was actually sweat for her on her very first appearance as Black Stiletto. No matter how good was her, there were times she got injured too.

Judy has few diaries and this book only covers one of the diaries. So I guess there will be more books on this series. I rate this book 4 out of 5 stars.


Note: I receive the ARC of this book from the publisher via Net Gallery. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.


Book Trailer




Additional info

The Black Stiletto was a legend in her own time, an underground heroine who made a name for herself during the late Eisenhower years and early Kennedy years as a New York City vigilante. Although she was wanted by the law and would have been arrested had she been caught or had her secret identity been revealed, the Black Stiletto was a competent and successful crime-fighter. A feminist before the term was in everyday vernacular, she battled common crooks, Communist spies, the mafia, and worse—and was responsible for their capture and, in some cases, their deaths. But the Stiletto disappeared midway through the sixties and was never heard from again. Most people thought she had died, and no one ever knew her identity. Like pinup queen Bettie Page, her mythical image resurfaced in comics and other media during the 1980s and 90s. Millions of dollars were made by others exploiting her likeness and persona. Today, the questions remain. Who was she? Is she still alive? If so, where is she now?

The answers can be found in THE BLACK STILETTO, by internationally-known New York Times best-selling author Raymond Benson.

The July 2011 issue of Library Journal calls THE BLACK STILETTO "a mashup of the work of Gloria Steinem, Ian Fleming, and Mario Puzo, all under the editorship of Stan Lee."

Until There Was You by Kristan Higgins

Title:         Until There Was You Publisher:  Harlequin Imprint:     HQNBooks Pub Date: 10/25/2011 ISBN:       9780373776115 Author:     Kristan Higgins She’s having serious prom-night déjà vu… Posey Osterhagen can’t complain. She owns a successful architectural salvaging company, she’s surrounded by her lovable, if off-center, family and she has a boyfriend—sort of. Still, something’s missing. Something tall, brooding and criminally good-looking… something like Liam Murphy. When Posey was sixteen, the bad boy of Bellsford, New Hampshire, broke her heart. But now he’s back, sending Posey’s traitorous schoolgirl heart into overdrive once again. She should be giving him a wide berth, but it seems fate has other ideas…

I love My One and Only written by Kristan Higgins. So as soon as I saw her next book become available, I could not help not to read it.

Unlike My One and Only, this book is written in third person POV, for both hero and heroine. The story is about Posey was love at first sight with the bad boy Liam since they met 20 years ago in their high school. Liam was working in Posey's parents' restaurant at that time. And seeing he was a bad boy, Liam had kept his distant with Posey. And then later he fell in love with a popular girl at school, Emma and they got married and moved to California.

Liam and Emma had a daughter Nicole. 2 years ago Emma had died from leukaemia and Liam had decided to move back to Posey's hometown (which is also Emma's hometown) so that Nicole could get closer with the grandparents. And from a bad boy, Liam had become a protective and responsible father, but still attractive and sexy and women started throw themselves at him. Except Posey, who wanted to protect her heart from getting hurt again. And Liam, just wanted to give the best to his beloved daughter and not thinking about getting into any relationship. But fate seems say otherwise.

I did not fall in love with this book right away. I feel the style is slightly different with her last book that I have read. Nonetheless, she did not disappoint me. Again, it is full of emotion in the story: Friendship, family, love, anger, jealousy, heartbreak. The story is very realistic and in depth. And the characters, both main and secondary characters are vivid with clearly defined role.

In overall, I enjoy reading this book though I prefer My One and Only. I rate this book 4 out of 5 stars.

Note: I receive the ARC of this book from the publisher via Net Gallery. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.

Seers by Heather Frost

Title:         Seers Publisher:  Cedar Fort Imprint:     Sweetwater Pub Date:  10/03/2011 ISBN:       9781599557922 Author:      Heather Frost When Kate Bennett survived the horrificcar accident that claimed her parents' lives, she knew her worldwould be forever changed. But she never could have imagined howdramatic these changes would be. Feeling like a freak, Kate tries tohide her unwelcome new ability to see people's auras – that is,until she meets Patrick O'Donnell, who seems to be able to disappearat will. When Kate and her remaining family begin to be haunted by Demons, her only hope is to stay close to Patrick and other Guardianslike him. Somehow, Patrick lies at the center of the mystery, and Kate soon realizes that both she and her heart are in big-time trouble. Caught up in a war she barely understands, with enemies onlyshe can discern, Kate quickly learns that in war everybody loses something...or someone. About the Author Heather Frost was born in Sandy, Utah, and raised in a small Northern Utah town. She is the second oldest of ten children, and she loves her family very much. She is especially grateful to her wonderful parents for their decision to homeschool their children. She graduated from Snow College with an associate of science, and is currently majoring in English. Heather has always been an avid reader, and reading and writing are among her most favorite things to do. She also enjoys playing the flute, listening to all types of music, and watching a wide variety of movies. Ever since she wrote her first story--at the age of four--she has dreamed of one day becoming an author. Seers is her first published novel.

I was attracted by the synopsis of this book. The story is quite interesting. Majority part of the story is written in Kate's POV. However there are few parts towards the end of the book that are suddenly jump to Patrick being the first person POV. This at first confuses me for a little while before I realize that the subject has changed. Same for the epilogue, I don't think it is necessary to write the whole story in first person POV and without telling who that person is.

I have a mixed feeling on this book actually. Although the story is quite interesting, I found myself fancy none of the characters in the story. Not even Kate or Patrick. I have neutral feeling on Patrick. While I do not hate Kate but I don't quite agree with her behaviour to her boyfriend. To me, she had been dishonest with her boyfriend, not on keeping her special ability as a secret, but on her feelings with him. I wonder if Patrick does not exist, what will happen to them. Will she make the same decision? However she was just a teenager, I suppose I should not expect she acts like a mature adult.

In summary the book is not really that bad actually. It's quite an easy read (if you don't mind the first person POV). The pace is not very fast despite some actions.

I rate this book 3 out of 5 stars.


Note: I receive the ARC of this book from the publisher via Net Gallery. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.

Forbidden by Ted Dekker and Tosca Lee

Title:         Forbidden
Publisher:  Hachette Book Group
Imprint:     Center Street
Pub Date:  09/13/2011
ISBN:       9781599953540
Author:      Ted Dekker and Tosca Lee




What will it be like when all of us are emotionless except fear? Imagine no love, no passion, no happiness, and thus no sadness, no tears too. Why there is fear? Because with fear, we will follow rules. And thus the world will be peaceful without war. But is it really as what it seems? Or are we just a living corpse walking around the earth?

Rom was an artist. One day on the way going home, Rom met with an old man who claimed to know his father and told him a shocking news that his father was being murdered and not died from illness. This old man also gave him a vial of blood and asked him to go look for this man called Book who was detained in the Citadel. According to the rules, Rom was supposed to turn himself in and hand over the vial of blood to the Orders. However seeing the old man being killed by the citadel guard, Rom was freak out and he ran away. Due to this, his life was totally changed. He became fugitive. And yet he needed to stay around for the answers. He had a mission to complete.

This is my first book by Ted Dekker and Tosca Lee. And it is very well written. Fast pace, unpredictable, full of actions and adventures that made me can't stop turning the pages. The thoughts and emotion of the main characters are presented very well. The story plot is good and things always happen out of my anticipation. Even though this book is categorized under Thriller, however it is not scary or creepy at all. Rom was fearful but he's smart and intelligent too. The promise that he had made and his determination to protect his loved one made him to continue his mission. You can also find sacrifice, passion, love and loyalty from this book. I could not get enough and I'm looking forward for the next book in this series.

This is a wonderful book and I enjoy reading it very much. I give it 5 out of 5 stars.


Book Description:

A terrible truth has been revealed to one man: the entire human race has been drained of every emotion except one-- fear. To bring life back to the world, Rom must embark on a journey that will end either in his own demise or a reawakening of humanity.  But to bring love and passion back into existence will also threaten the powers of the world with the revolution and anarchy that had nearly destroyed them previously.

After happening upon a journal through strange circumstance,  Rom's world is shattered. He learns that humanity long ago ceased to "live," that it exists today in a living death of emotions. In a terrible risk, Rom exposes himself to the vial of blood folded into the old leather of the journal. His change is fearful and fraught with mind-bending emotion. A once-pious observer of the Order's passionless statues, he is filled with uncontrollable impulses. He is filled with love.

He is undone, terrified, and alone in the desolate world.


ABOUT THE AUTHORS

TED DEKKER is a New York Times bestselling author of more than twenty novels with a total of more than 5 million books in print.   He is known for thrillers that combine adrenaline-laced plots with incredible confrontations between good and evil.

TOSCA LEE left her position working with Fortune 500 Companies as a Senior Consultant for the Gallup Organization to pursue her first love: writing. She is the critically-acclaimed author of Demon and Havah and is best known for her humanizing portraits of maligned characters. She makes her home in the Midwest.



Note: I receive the ARC of this book from the publisher via Net Gallery. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.

The Iron Knight by Julie Kagawa

Title:         The Iron Knight
SubTitle:    Book 4 in the Iron Fey Series
Publisher:   Harlequin
Imprint:      HarlequinTEEN
Pub Date:  10/25/2011
ISBN:        9780373210367
Author:      Julie Kagawa

Book Description:

Ash, former prince of the Winter Court, gave up everything. His title, his home, even his vow of loyalty. All for a girl… and all for nothing.

Unless he can earn a soul.

To cold, emotionless faery prince Ash, love was a weakness for mortals and fools. His own love had died a horrible death, killing any gentler feelings the Winter prince might have had. Or so he thought.

Then Meghan Chase—a half human, half fey slip of a girl— smashed through his barricades, binding him to her irrevocably with his oath to be her knight. And when all of Faery nearly fell to the Iron fey, she severed their bond to save his life. Meghan is now the Iron Queen, ruler of a realm where no Winter or Summer fey can  survive.

With the (unwelcome) company of his archrival, Summer Court prankster Puck, and the infuriating cait sith Grimalkin, Ash begins a journey he is bound to see through to its end— a quest to find a way to honor his solemn vow to stand by Meghan’s side.

To survive in the Iron realm, Ash must have a soul and a mortal body. But the tests he must face to earn these things are impossible. At least, no one has ever passed to tell the tale.

And then Ash learns something that changes everything. A truth that turns reality upside down, challenges his darkest beliefs and shows him that, sometimes, it takes more than courage to make the ultimate sacrifice.


My Review:

Finally the long awaited The Iron Knight, book 4 also the last book of the Iron Fey series is available in Net Galley. And being a big fan of The Iron Fey series, I request it straight away. :)

Unlike the previous 3 books (The Iron King, The Iron Daughter and The Iron Queen) written from Meghan's POV, The Iron Knight is written in Ash's POV which I think it's perfect! I always like Ash since The Iron King. I still remember the first time Ash met with Meghan when Meghan first come to the faery realm. Ash, being the 3rd prince from the Winter Court, was a cold, emotionless and obedient child to the queen of Winter Court. However he started to change after meeting with Meghan Chase. We may not know much on what's inside his mind of this cool prince but one thing we know is, Meghan had melted the ice around his heart and he had vowed to protect this woman that he loved by her side. In order to keep his promise, he had to earn a soul for himself, a quest that no other fey had succeeded before.

In The Iron Knight, finally we get to know many thoughts and emotion of Ash throughout the whole journey to earn a soul for him self. We get to learn his doubt, struggling whether he had made the right decision; whether he was able to protect the woman that he loved after becoming human, as human is less strong than a fey. We also get to learn about his past, the dark side of his life before meeting Meghan; his resentment and his feelings towards the people around him. Yes he's not perfect. But I admire his courage to do something no one has got passed before, to keep his promise; a promise for the woman that he loved so much; a woman that he's willing to sacrifice everything just to keep his promise. How many people can really do that? Or willing to do that? 

Ash was a lucky one too, seeing there were bunch of people who were willing to risk themselves to join him in his quest, to help him to get his quest done. Despite they had their own reason or purpose on helping him; nonetheless they had the same goal - to help Ash to get the quest done. It's a dangerous journey. I really doubt that without them, can Ash made it through?

Despite without Meghan involved in the journey, The Iron Knight is not bored and does not disappoint me at all. In fact, the author has done an excellent job writing about Ash, as well as giving a wonderful ending to this Iron Fey series. I like the plot of the story. It is unpredictable and never stops giving me surprises. And I'm pleased with the good ending for everyone, although I feel sad that the whole series has come to an end. I never love the main characters that much in other books!

I rate this book 5 out of 5 stars. If you are a YA or fantasy lover, I highly recommend you to read this Iron Fey series. Watch the book trailer of the first 3 books in the series:




About Julie Kagawa:

Born in Sacramento, California, Julie Kagawa moved to Hawaii at the age of nine. There she learned many things: how to bodyboard, that teachers scream when you put centipedes in their desks and that writing stories in math class is a fantastic way to kill time. Her teachers were glad to see her graduate. Julie now lives in Louisville, Kentucky, with her husband and a plethora of pets. She still laughs whenever she sees  centipede. Visit her at www.juliekagawa.com.


Note: I receive the ARC of this book from the publisher via Net Gallery. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.

Twilight Fulfilled by Maggie Shayne

Title:         Twilight Fulfilled
Publisher:  Harlequin
Imprint:     MIRA Books
Pub Date:  09/27/2011
ISBN:       9780778312673
Author:      Maggie Shayne



When I saw this book is available in Net Galley I was so happy and can't help to request it right away. After reading Twilight Prophecy, I was very much looking forward to read the sequel. And this book 2 Twilight Fulfilled, does not disappoint me at all. Instead it is better than the first book.

While the first book was more about James, this book two was on his twin sister, Brigit. James used his healing power to revive Utanapishtim from his ashes. But then the soon after that they realized it's a mistake to revive him. So the vampire race sent Brigit, the destroyer, to destroy Utanapishtim to save the vampire race. But something unexpected happened between them. And things get complicated when US government stepped into the battle and more secrets were being revealed. 

I found the story very fascinating. It captivates my interest from beginning till the end. The pace is good. There are quite a number of supporting characters added in the story with clearly defined role and they never over shadow the two main characters. The intense emotion of the characters is well projected too. The plot is good. The twists and turns just made me can't stop turning the pages. I like the ending. I wonder is there any more upcoming books in this series.

I enjoy reading it very much. I rate this book 4 out of 5 stars.


Book Description:


Enemies... Lovers... Saviors?

The First Immortal Walks Again

Utanapishtim has paid dearly for the sin of creating the vampire race—imprisoned in a living death for  centuries, driven to near madness. With a single white-hot glance, he immolates his descendants…and the vampire Armageddon begins.

Beautiful and deadly Brigit Poe, not wholly vampire but fiercely loyal to that shared bloodline, is called into  action. She abhors yet cannot deny her destiny: to vanquish the once-great king of the immortals and save the vampire race.

Two warriors, equally matched in power and determination, are soon locked in an unwinnable battle, only to discover a passion so shocking it threatens every truth they’ve ever known—even as they must face one final battle that seems fated to end in death and heartbreak for them both.


In this series:

Book I: Twilight Prophecy
Book II:  Twilight Fulfilled




About the author:

 “Tension packed,” “haunting,” “bewitching,” “tasty” and “better than chocolate” are just a few of the ways New York Times bestselling author Maggie Shayne and her award-winning novels have been described by critics and colleagues alike. Maggie is one of the hottest authors currently writing paranormal romance. Her works are fresh and sexy, carrying the reader into a darkly compelling and fully realized world where vampires are  creatures of the heart, not just the night.


Note: I receive the ARC of this book from the publisher Harlequin via Net Gallery. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.