Reading, makes me feel relax.
Reading, helps me to de-stress.
Reading, makes me ponder a lot, reflect my own life.
Whether it is romance, suspense, thriller, mystery, historical, horror, or chic-lit,
Reading, brings me a new level of pleasures and satisfaction.

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Wednesday, July 27, 2011

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.

Tuesday, July 26, 2011

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. 

Friday, July 15, 2011

Seduced by Her Highland Warrior by Michelle Willingham


Title:         Seduced by Her Highland Warrior
SubTitle:   The MacKinloch Clan Highlan
Publisher:  Harlequin
Imprint:     Harlequin Historical
Pub Date:  07/26/2011
ISBN:       9780373296545
Author:      Michelle Willingham

Book Description:

The MacKinloch Clan Highland warriors prepared to fight fiercely for their country...and for love

BACK IN HER HUSBAND’S BED

Alex MacKinloch is chief of his clan and, in these dark times of unrest, he has united his people. The void between him and his wife is proving a much harder challenge. When Alex discovers Laren has been keeping secrets from him, his thinly veiled frustration can no longer be contained.

The pleasures of the marital bed seem long forgotten to Laren. Yet her warrior husband is looking at her with increasingly hungry eyes... This powerful highlander has seduction on his mind and his wife in his sights!


My Review:

This is a story about a marriage couple who want to save their marriage that has fallen apart. Alex and Laren used to be a loving couple. Despite Alex is a son of the chief while Laren's poor family background, Alex has chosen Laren as his wife for his love for her is so strong. However since their son died 3 years ago, they have not been talking to each other much and started to drift apart. They spent their own time to put away the pain instead of giving support to each other. However deep inside they still love each other very much.

Both Alex and Laren are aware that their marriage has fallen apart. And I'm glad that Alex has started the move try to improve the situation. While it is a bit frustrating to read that they are not talking, and always assume they are doing the best for the other, but isn't this is the common mistake that we are making nowadays? Despite the scene is historical, but this is a realistic fiction story. Proud husband that does not wish the wife to see his pain; timid wife who does not wish to add burden to the husband who has so much to handle; these are common things that can happen to any of the family. Why is it so difficult to talk? Why make a couple can't be honest to each other?

While they are trying hard to save their marriage, being a chief Alex also has to take care of his people from the treat of the English soldiers. They were attacked not long ago and now they are trying to rebuild the keep to keep them safe. Alex is wise and far sighted except to his own wife. He's a good father too. And no doubt Laren is a great mom. She will do anything, without being timid or shy, in order to save her child.   

Seduced by Her Highland Warrior is a story about trust, honesty and be supportive. I enjoy reading it very much. 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.

Thursday, July 14, 2011

The Mogul's Maybe Marriage by Mindy Klasky


Title:         The Mogul's Maybe Marriage
SubTitle:   Harlequin Special
Publisher:  Harlequin
Imprint:     Harlequin Special Edition
Pub Date: 07/26/2011
ISBN:      9780373656172
Author:     Mindy Klasky


Book Description:

PREGNANT?

His grandmother’s ultimatum was that he marry, not become a dad. But when brilliant physician Ethan Hartwell searched for the only woman he’d never quite forgotten, he found a two-for-one—Sloane Davenport was carrying his child! Now Ethan had to decide whether to tell Sloane his darkest secret....

A foster kid, Sloane dreamed of giving her own child a perfect family. But one incredible night with Ethan left
her pregnant and—outrageously—fired from her job. Struggling to keep her independence, Sloane refused
Ethan’s logical proposal. She wasn’t about to marry for anything but respect and partnership and love. So what will it take for her “maybe” to become a “yes”?


My Review:

I think it is a bit hard to believe that a handsome millionaire and a Bachelor of the Year want to marry a woman where he has only spent a night with few months ago. But it is a night that has made him difficult to forget. Although agree with marry Ethan for the sake of the baby, Sloane has listed down three things that she wants from him - Trust, Respect and Partnership. These are important essence and foundation of a relationship especially they are getting married and have a family soon. To me, Ethan is a little too perfect - rich, handsome, powerful, caring, and most important he will admit his mistakes, apologize and make amend for it. But he is also not perfect due to his family history which is his darkest secret. But I think Sloane fit him perfectly in this case. 

I like how their relationship has progressed. The ending is good. I enjoy reading this book very much. 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.

Monday, July 11, 2011

The Promises She Keeps by Erin Healy


Title:            The Promises She Keeps
Publisher:     Thomas Nelson
Pub Date:    02/08/2011
ISBN:         9781595547514
Author:        Erin Healy


This book has been sitting on my to-read list for quite a few months, but I was in a mood to read it. Finally I picked it up last week, and I feel as if I have found a jewel. I think I will regret if I have missed it. It is different comparing to most other fiction books that I have read. Since most of the main characters in this book are artists, together with the storyline it makes me feel a little "abstract". Some part of the story is a bit eerie, and yet makes me feel calm.

Promise is a talented young singer with terminal illness. Despite her health condition, she never giving up hope in her life and she wants to leave her name behind after she dies. For she knows she would die at young age, she wants to be remembered.

Porta is an aging sorceress who seeks immortality. She just moved into the town where Promise is staying and opens an art gallery there. She believes the art has power to speak into a life and can heal a soul.

When Promise survives a series of freak accidents, all involving Zack, Porta believes that Promise may hold the key to eternal life. Zack is an art student in the university that Promise is studying in. He's also Porta's son. However he does not have good relationship with Porta.

Chase is an autistic artist in early thirties who loves to draw trees. He has great knowledge of trees, on their scientific name, their common name and their characteristic. Despite having autism, to me Chase has the most pure heart amongst all of them. He sees people through relating them to trees. He can tell Porta and Zack are not good people and they will harm Promise. And he loves Promise. He knew he was made for her. He risks himself trying to save Promise.

The whole story reminded me about things happen for a reason. There are things meant for you and there are things not meant for you. But it seems like only Chase understands about this. I like his heart, his clear mind, and his intelligent. As if he has a special gift to see things. I dislike Porta the most. She is a selfish mother and very self centered. She even goes as far as manipulating her son in order to get what she wants.

I like the way the author builds the characters and the plot. It requires us to read it with open mind and open heart. The ending is a little sad but I suppose it's the best for everyone. It is a beautiful story in its own way.

I rate this book 5 out of 5 stars.


Note: I receive the review 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.

Tuesday, July 5, 2011

14 Secrets to Better Parenting


Title:         14 Secrets to Better Parenting
SubTitle:   Powerful Principles from the Bible
Publisher:  Barbour Publishing, Inc.
Imprint:     Barbour Books
Pub Date:  04/01/2011
ISBN:       9781616262259
Author:      Dave Earley


Book Description:

Wondering how to raise great kids? Turn to the Bible’s book of Proverbs for guidance—that’s where author Dave Earley found many of his 14 Secrets to Better Parenting. From “Focus on Training” to “When You Have No Other Option, Keep Praying!”, these principles will help you create the kind of home environment conducive to raising successful children. “When our children were born over twenty years ago,” the author says, “I researched what the Bible had to say about parenting and made a list of principles. I considered writing my findings up as a book, but refrained from getting it published until our children were grown and I could see how the principles worked. Guess what? They work! We can joyously say today that all three of our boys are living lives that honor the Lord.”


My Review:

This book is great especially for Christian parents. In today's world, the Bible principles of parenting are often overlooked. Author shares his experience on applying these principles in bringing up his three sons. This entire book is written based on the book of Proverbs. Throughout the whole books, the author continuously quotes scripture from Proverbs with explanation how to apply them in our parenting journey. The area that the author has covered not limited to but including training, discipline, and bringing the children closer to God. And Wisdom is highly emphasized throughout the whole book. A wise parents will focus on developing the wisdom in their children. Parenting is never an easy task. In fact it is full of challenging as each child is different. This book definitely serve as a good reference to assist us in our parenting journey. 


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.