Sweet Revenge (Sins Brothers #2) by Rebecca Zanetti

The One Man She Can't Have Matt Dean was born to fight…and kill. A member of a secret black-ops military unit, he and his brothers were genetically engineered by the government to be the perfect soldiers with an expiration date. Now, with time running out, he's gone rogue in a relentless quest for the one person who can save them. His mission leads him to Charmed, Idaho…and to a beautiful woman with eyes like emeralds and a body made for pleasure. The One Woman He Can't Resist Laney Jacobs knows the mysterious, handsome stranger is trouble from the moment he walks into her bar, looking for a job. She's spent years running from her own past—the last thing she needs is a romantic entanglement. But Matt's strong arms offer her protection, and his gentle touch promises passion unlike anything she's ever known. As lethal forces surround them, revealing explosive secrets about Matt's past and putting everything—and everyone—he holds dear in danger, can he save them all before time runs out?

Although this is the second book in the series, it can be read as standalone. I read this before reading first book and I have no problem following the story. It's fast pace, filled with twists and turns, and full of actions towards the end.

Matt was a very likeable character. Handsome, strong, steady, smart, very protective to the people that he cared about. I was amazed by his strength at the ending with his determination to save the people he cared about despite he was badly injured. He's extraordinary. Laney was a strong woman with kind heart. She never stop giving me surprise. And she managed to overcome her fear to save the people she cared about. I was glad that Matt did not misjudge her by her past.

I enjoy reading the book very much. The story is very interesting and I always enjoy reading strong hero. The suspense, romance and action made the whole package very attractive. I'm looking forward to the next book in the series. And I would definitely go back to read the first book of the series to learn more about Matt's another younger brother.

I rate this book 4 out of 5 stars.

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

Tangled (Tangled #1) by Emma Chase

From Goodreads: - Drew Evans is a winner. Handsome and arrogant, he makes multimillion dollar business deals and seduces New York’s most beautiful women with just a smile. He has loyal friends and an indulgent family. So why has he been shuttered in his apartment for seven days, miserable and depressed?  He’ll tell you he has the flu. But we all know that’s not really true. Katherine Brooks is brilliant, beautiful and ambitious. She refuses to let anything - or anyone - derail her path to success. When Kate is hired as the new associate at Drew’s father’s investment banking firm, every aspect of the dashing playboy’s life is thrown into a tailspin. The professional competition she brings is unnerving, his attraction to her is distracting, his failure to entice her into his bed is exasperating.  Then, just when Drew is on the cusp of having everything he wants, his overblown confidence threatens to ruin it all. Will he be able untangle his feelings of lust and tenderness, frustration and fulfillment? Will he rise to the most important challenge of his life?  Can Drew Evans win at love?  Tangled is not your mother’s romance novel. It is an outrageous, passionate, witty narrative about a man who knows a lot about women…just not as much as he thinks he knows. As he tells his story, Drew learns the one thing he never wanted in life, is the only thing he can’t live without.

Tangled is a very refreshing read, as it is from a male POV. A narration from a funny, arrogant, cocky male. Yup it's a narration. But instead of boring narration like diary, it's actually written like Drew is talking to you personally. Some of my favourite quotes from Tangled: -

“For God's sake, don't let her watch Cinderella. What kind of example is that? A mindless twit who can't even remember where she left her damn shoe, so she has to wait for some douchebag in tights to bring it to her? Give me a frigging break!” 

“It makes me want to kiss her and strangle her at the same time. I’ve never been into S&M. But I’m beginning to see its benefits.” 

Tangled is fun and light-hearted. I was laughing at how Drew and Katherine fight like a child. And some of the the things that Drew commented about men simply made me grin. And I definitely enjoy reading the part where Drew go all out trying his very best to win Katherin's heart over. At some point, I was actually thinking what did Katherine think about Drew. :)

I enjoy reading this book very much. I consider it's well written as a debut. I rate it 4 out of 5 stars.

Real (Real, Raw & Ripped #1) by Katy Evans

From Goodreads: - A fallen boxer. A woman with a broken dream. A competition… He even makes me forget my name. One night was all it took, and I forgot everything and anything except the sexy fighter in the ring who sets my mind ablaze and my body on fire with wanting… Remington Tate is the strongest, most confusing man I’ve ever met in my life. He’s the star of the dangerous underground fighting circuit, and I’m drawn to him as I’ve never been drawn to anything in my life. I forget who I am, what I want, with just one look from him. When he’s near, I need to remind myself that I am strong–but he is stronger. And now it’s my job to keep his body working like a perfect machine, his taut muscles primed and ready to break the bones of his next opponents . . . But the one he’s most threatening to, now, is me. I want him. I want him without fear. Without reservations. If only I knew for sure what it is that he wants from me?

When I first started reading this book, honestly I don't know what should I expect from it. As the author seems like can't stop to emphasize how hot how sexy Remy is, and how Brooke get turned on even by just looking at him. And yet, Remy refused to bed her, again and again despite the sexual tension between two of them. But as the story continue to unfold itself, there are more about Remy, the not so pretty side of him behind his fame, behind his sexy muscular body. I kind of like the way Brooke handle things. She is mature. She cares. And she is strong. The ending is unexpected, but best ending ever.

In overall, it's quite a good read. I rate this book 4 out of 5 stars.

True by Erin McCarthy

Title:          True Publisher:   PENGUIN GROUP Pub Date:   07/05/2013 ISBN:        9781101623152 Author:      Erin McCarthy A captivating New Adult novel from New York Times bestselling author Erin McCarthy. When Rory Macintosh’s roommates find out that their studious and shy friend has never been with a guy, they decide that, as an act of kindness they’ll help her lose her virginity by hiring confident, tattooed bad boy Tyler Mann to do the job…unbeknownst to Rory. Tyler knows he’s not good enough for Rory. She’s smart, doctor smart, while he’s barely scraping by at his EMT program, hoping to pull his younger brothers out of the hell their druggy mother has left them in. But he can’t resist taking up her roommates on an opportunity to get to know her better. There’s something about her honesty that keeps him coming back when he knows he shouldn’t… Torn between common sense and desire, the two find themselves caught up in a passionate relationship. But when Tyler’s broken family threatens to destroy his future, and hers, Rory will need to decide whether to cut her ties to his risky world or follow her heart, no matter what the cost…

My understanding is this is Erin McCarthy's debut on Young Adult genre. This is her very first book that I read so I can't compare to her other books. When I started to read this book, I find the pace is kind of slow and it does not really attract me to continue reading. I put it aside for a while, and few weeks later I come back to pick it up again. And this time, I find that the book is actually not that bad after all. It's a bad boy with good girl kind of story.

As I read along, I slowly find myself attracted to Rosy and Tyler and just want to read more about them. What I like most about them is their honesty. They have been very honest with each other, especially Rosy, in which this is very important in all relationship. I think without this honesty, they probably would never get together. Although Tyler has not been very open with Rosy about the deal with her roommates, but he did not deny it when Rosy questioned him about that. And most important he never hide anything about the situation of his family to her. Which to me that's a plus point. The more I read, the more I like about Tyler. I actually can't hold my tears reading the part what Tyler's mom has done to him. I could not believe that she actually did it. I find the ending is a little brief though. I wish to read more what happen to Tyler after school reopen, whether did he get to continue studying or not, and the impact on that incident to his future. Nonetheless, overall it's a good read.

I rate this book 4 out of 5 stars. I'm looking forward to read the next book about Jessica.


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

Seduction and Snacks (Chocolate Lovers #1) by Tara Sivec

From Goodreads: - Claire is a twenty-something, single mom that grudgingly helps her best friend sell sex toys while she attempts to make enough money to start her own business to give her foul-mouthed, but extremely loveable (when he's asleep) toddler a better life. When Carter, the one-night-stand from her past that changed her life forever, shows up in her hometown bar without any recollection of her besides her unique chocolate scent, Claire will make it a point that he remembers her this time. With Carter's undisguised shock at suddenly finding out he has a four-year-old son and Claire's panic that her stretch marks and slim to none bedroom experience will send the man of her dreams heading for the hills, the pair will do whatever they can to get their happily ever after. Warning: contains explicit sex, profanity and enough sarcasm to choke a horse.

This book is hilarious. While some people may think it's too much or ridiculous, it's all depends how you see it. Sometimes I think can a person has so many embarrassing moments? Anyway it's just a fiction after all. And I kind of enjoy reading it.

When I first started reading, I was like, what kind of person is this Claire? But then soon she got my respect. A person who swear not to have any child, who determine not to give birth to any child since young, would accept having a baby after a one night stand, where she did not even know who the father is. She did go try to search the father of the child. But without the name it's hard and she did not manage to find him. And yet she did not give up on the baby. I think not anyone can do that. Her best friend, Liz, was a jewel. A friend that hard to get.

While Claire could not forget the father of her child, as she was looking at his eyes every day from her son. On the other hand, Carter also could not forget this woman who he had one night stand with for the whole 5 years. While he did not know her name, too wasted on that night to remember her face, but he definitely remember her unique chocolate scent. He even went to search high and low on her after that night. So in actual, both of them were looking high and low for each other, but seems like fate had them missed each other until 5 years later. Their son, Gavin was a cheeky little boy. You would never get bored with him around. Hahahaha. I was laughing out loud especially reading the part where Carter was getting 'poop' talk from one of the father that he met at the library, and how Carter got panic after that. That was epic! My another favorite scene was when Carter met Gavin for the very first time, at Claire's shop.

Seduction and Snacks is a hilarious and yet a sweet romance. I rate it 4 out of 5 stars.

The Betrayal (Precinct 11 #2) by Jerry B. Jenkins

From Goodreads: - Detective Boone Drake has just masterminded the most massive sting in Chicago history, bringing down the heads of not only the biggest street gangs in the city but also the old crime syndicate. The story is the biggest in decades, and the Chicago Police Department must protect the key witness at all costs. Despite top secret plans to transfer the witness ahead of his testimony before the grand jury, an attempt is made on his life. And the person suspected of leaking this information may be one of the CPD's own.

The Betrayal by Jerry B. Jenkins is the second book in the Precinct 11 series. The story picks up from where The Brotherhood ends. I enjoy reading first book The Brotherhood a lot. And I was looking forward on reading this book 2. Honestly, Jerry Jenkins did not disappoint me at all. The 2nd book of this series is full of suspense. The plot was exciting and full of mystery. Similar to book 1, The Betrayal is full of actions. I just could not stop turning the pages. Besides searching who is the betrayal, the story also continue on Boone's relationship with God, and his new relationship after his wife and son have died. Boone is tough, smart and brave. I enjoy reading how he keeps cool and act accordingly when they are in danger. Boone also has an amazing relationship with his boss Jack. I think it's the greatest thing he ever has.

Overall I enjoy reading this book very much. Good story, good writing style. I rate it 4 out of 5 stars.

Darkness Rising (East Salem Trilogy #2) by Lis Wiehl

From Goodreads: - The evil that's in East Salem is no longer content to hide in the shadows. The stakes-and the darkness-are rising. Dani Harris thought there wasn't much left that could surprise her after serving as a forensic psychiatrist in East Salem. And Tommy Gunderson has faced few challenges in his life that he couldn't overcome by either physical strength or his celebrity status. But as they race to uncover what's really happening behind the high walls of St. Adrian's Academy, it becomes clear that supernatural forces have been at work here for generations. And now their focus is on making sure Dani and Tommy don't interfere. When the unseen becomes seen, faith is the only weapon strong enough to fight in a battle involving not only murder and betrayal-but angels and demons.

I like the first book in this series very much. The writer is very good at creating suspense making it a page turner. In this book 2 of the series, the story continues where Waking Hours left off. In my opinion, it's ok to read book 2 without reading book 1, but I would still recommend to read book 1 to have better understanding on the back ground of the characters as well as the case.

In this 2nd book, Dani and Tommy continue to work together on the case. And this time, both Dani and Tommy's ex come into picture which make their relationship a little more challenging. The plot of the story is amazing. I like the twists and turns and the suspense elements in the story. I can never expect what will happen next. Once I started reading, I just could not stop. I like both characters of Dani and Tommy a lot. They are mature, strong, insightful and have faith. I can't wait to further read about the development of their relationship. In this 2nd book, the devil has finally emerged. I can't wait to read the next book in this series!

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

Starring Me by Krista McGee

Title:         Starring Me Publisher:  Thomas Nelson Pub Date:  July 10, 2012 ISBN:        9781401684891 Author:     Krista McGee Kara McKormick is told she's auditioning to star in a new teen variety show. But it's what she isn't told that could change her life. The feisty New Yorker moves to sunny Orlando to participate in a month-long audition, where she'll live with nine other contestants and an eccentric housemother. Kara knows that the show already has a big-time celebrity lined up for the co-host, but she doesn't know who it is. Chad Beacon quickly rose to fame after winning America's Next Star, but he doesn't want his entire career to be about singing. There is so much more he wants to do-like act. The new variety show sounds like the perfect next step for him, but his parents want him to have a co-star who shares his faith since they'll be spending so much time together. Acting is high on Kara's priority list. But a relationship with God? Not so much. In fact, she's tried to stay away from anything religious. But God is after Kara's heart and He's put people in her life who are showing her there's far more to Christianity than rules and judgment. And just when it seems that Kara's going to have to give up her acting dream, God reveals that she may have a starring role after all-in a story so big only He could write it.

This is a light and easy read. Kara and Chad both are very likable characters. Both Kara and Chad are down to earth people and brought up well by their parents. I like the way Kara handles the other participants. I'm also amazed by Chad on his faith at the God, who believe the God will choose the right girl for his show. The story is a little similar to First Date, the first book in the series, but nonetheless I enjoy it very much. It is an easy read, and yet a page turner. Though Starring Me is more on how Kara finally turn to become a Christian, the story is not preachy at all. And I enjoy reading those audition scene very much. If you need something simple to read and relax, this is a book for you.

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.

If You Were Mine (The Sullivans #5) by Bella Andre

From Goodreads: The last thing Zach Sullivan wants is to take care of his brother's new puppy for two weeks. Until he meets the dog trainer, that is. Heather is bright, beautiful, and he can't stop thinking about her. Unfortunately, she just might be the only woman on earth who wants nothing to do with him. Heather Linsey can't believe she's stuck working with one of the city’s top dogs, auto-shop mogul Zach Sullivan. Especially when his focus is clear from the start—not only to learn how to deal with his temporary puppy...but also to make her his. Having sworn off love at seventeen when she realized it was nothing more than a pack of lies, Heather has stuck to her vow never to fall for a charming man. The last thing she expects is for Zach to be the one to tempt her into believing again. But as Heather's determination to push Zach away only fuels his determination to get closer—and the sensual and emotional connection between them grows more and more undeniable—can two people who've both sworn off love find forever in each other's arms?

This is one of my favorite from the whole Sullivans series. Zach and Heather are very likable characters. Not to mention their pets, Cuddles and Atlas, oh they are so adorable! Zach lost his father when he was still very young and seeing the sadness from his mother after losing her husband, Zach vowed not to fall in love and get married. Heather found out her father has been lying to her mom many years ago and since then, she never trust any man. She becomes not interested in getting into any relationship.

Zach and Heather are attracted to each other even during the very first meeting. But since both swear not to fall in love, not to get involve into any relationship, they agree to become friend with benefit. However they have actually fallen in love with each other without realise about it. And do they really think they can guard their heart and resist each other?

This is a very sweet story and easy read. I love to see the interaction between Zach and Cuddles as well as Atlas. The puppy is so sweet and cute! I enjoy reading it very much. And I'm looking forward for the next book in the series.

I rate it 4 out of 5 stars.

Taste by Kate Evangelista

From Goodreads: - At Barinkoff Academy, there's only one rule: no students on campus after curfew. Phoenix McKay soon finds out why when she is left behind at sunset. A group calling themselves night students threaten to taste her flesh until she is saved by a mysterious, alluring boy. With his pale skin, dark eyes, and mesmerizing voice, Demitri is both irresistible and impenetrable. He warns her to stay away from his dangerous world of flesh eaters. Unfortunately, the gorgeous and playful Luka has other plans. When Phoenix is caught between her physical and her emotional attraction, she becomes the keeper of a deadly secret that will rock the foundations of an ancient civilization living beneath Barinkoff Academy. Phoenix doesn't realize until it is too late that the closer she gets to both Demitri and Luka the more she is plunging them all into a centuries old feud.

I was attracted to the book cover and the storyline of this book. And as I started reading, I just could not put it down. I was drawn into their world and both Demitri and Luka were irresistible.

The book is quite an easy read. The story is very original. And the pace is good, except I feel that it's rather rush towards the ending. Characters are well developed. While it shows how attractive Demitri is to Phoenix, but I don't think it shows or explains how Demitri has developed deep feeling for Phoenix. I wonder is there any sequel to this book.  

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

Almost a Scandal by Elizabeth Essex

 

Title:         Almost a Scandal SubTitle:     The Reckless Brides Publisher:     St. Martin's Press Imprint:     St. Martin's Paperbacks Pub Date:     July 31, 2012 ISBN:         9781250003799 Author:     Essex, Elizabeth Bold, brazen, and beautiful, the Reckless Brides refuse to play by society’s rules of courtship. But—come hell or high water—they always get their man… For generations, the Kents have served proudly with the British Royal Navy. So when her younger brother refuses to report for duty, Sally Kent slips into a uniform and takes his place—at least until he comes to his senses. Boldly climbing aboard the Audacious, Sally is as able-bodied as any sailor there. But one man is making her feel tantalizingly aware of the full-bodied woman beneath her navy blues… Dedicated to his ship, sworn to his duty—and distractingly gorgeous—Lieutenant David Colyear sees through Sally’s charade, and he’s furious. But he must admit she’s the best midshipman on board—and a woman who tempts him like no other. With his own secrets to hide and his career at stake, Col agrees to keep her on. But can the passion they hide survive the perils of a battle at sea? Soon, their love and devotion will be put to the test…

This is like the western version of Mulan. The story is a little predicted, but nonetheless Elizabeth Essex's writing has captured my attention from page one up to the last page. Sally is bold, intelligent and strong. Being a girl, she's definitely not in any disadvantage situation as compared to other midshipmen. In fact, she's much better than others. I admire her refused-to-give-up spirit and dare to speak up when seeing things not right. Even her own feelings towards Colyear, she did not try to hide it when the opportunities arrived. She grabbed it without any regret, despite their future was unknown. She's amazing, really amazing. As for Colyear, I feel that he's a little overshadowed by Sally. Don't get me wrong, I'm not saying Colyear is not great. Just the story is more focus on Sally. I think besides her family, only Colyear knows how to handle Sally, whether as his subordinate or as his partner. It's interesting to read how Sally keep on challenging Colyear instead of accepting the order without any question.

The author sets a very good pace on Sally's life at the sea. The author also has her own way on describing the different scenes in the story, be it the chores at the ship, being bullied, or even when facing with the enermies. 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.

Mockingjay (The Hunger Games #3) by Suzanne Collins

 

My name is Katniss Everdeen. Why am I not dead? I should be dead. Katniss Everdeen, girl on fire, has survived, even though her home has been destroyed. Gale has escaped. Katniss's family is safe. Peeta has been captured by the Capitol. District 13 really does exist. There are rebels. There are new leaders. A revolution is unfolding. It is by design that Katniss was rescued from the arena in the cruel and haunting Quarter Quell, and it is by design that she has long been part of the revolution without knowing it. District 13 has come out of the shadows and is plotting to overthrow the Capitol. Everyone, it seems, has had a hand in the carefully laid plains--except Katniss. The success of the rebellion hinges on Katniss's willingness to be a pawn, to accept responsibility for countless lives, and to change the course of the future of Panem. To do this, she must put aside her feelings of anger and distrust. She must become the rebels' Mockingjay--no matter what the personal cost.

This is the 3rd and last book of The Hunger Games series. This is my very first YA series on Dystopian. And honestly, the whole series makes me think a lot.

After the cliffhanger ending of Catching Fire, Mockingjay picked up from there. The whole story is depressing. It makes me wonder, what Katniss has done to make her deserve such torture, to go through all these? In Mockingjay, not only things out of her control, it was out of Peeta's control as well. I feel sad knowing what Peeta had to go through. I feel even sad knowing there's nothing that Katniss could do to improve Peeta's situation. To me, it's a war that should not involve Katniss and the rest. Unfortunately, some of her actions in the Hunger Games indirectly making herself get involved with no option to say no.

The more I read Mockingjay, the more I feel the world has become so cruel. Towards the end when I read about what happened to Katniss's sister Primrose, my first thought is - if this is what will happen to Prim at the end, then it's become worthless for Katniss to sacrifice herself volunteered for the Hunger Games replacing Primrose at the first place. Anyway, the ending is not that bad after all. Other than the story is depressing, the writing style is good. The emotional roller coaster that Katniss had gone through are so vivid and helpless. I rate it 4 out of 5 stars.

Epic Fail by Claire LaZebnik

From Goodreads: Will Elise's love life be an epic win or an epic fail? At Coral Tree Prep in Los Angeles, who your parents are can make or break you. Case in point: As the son of Hollywood royalty, Derek Edwards is pretty much prince of the school--not that he deigns to acknowledge many of his loyal subjects. As the daughter of the new principal, Elise Benton isn't exactly on everyone's must-sit-next-to-at-lunch list. When Elise's beautiful sister catches the eye of the prince's best friend, Elise gets to spend a lot of time with Derek, making her the envy of every girl on campus. Except she refuses to fall for any of his rare smiles and instead warms up to his enemy, the surprisingly charming social outcast Webster Grant. But in this hilarious tale of fitting in and flirting, not all snubs are undeserved, not all celebrity brats are bratty, and pride and prejudice can get in the way of true love for only so long.

I thought I won't enjoy reading high school romance thinking that they may be childish but I was so wrong. I actually enjoy reading this book very much. Every bit of it. And Elise, her sister Juliana, Derek and his best friend Chase are definitely mature for their age. I envy at the close relationship between Elise and Juliana. I wish I have a sister that I can trust on and talk to on everything. And both of them are brought up well by their parents. I like the way their father treated them as adult and having trust on them. As for Derek, despite his celebrity parents, he was brought up well as well and he's lucky to have Chase as his best friend. Both of them though coming from rich family, they do not look down on Elise and Juliana. I enjoy reading how the four of them interacting with each other; how Elise not to fall for Derek; how Elise changed her mind about Derek after getting to know more about him; and how Derek wins Elise's heart by being himself.

The plot is simple. The pace is good. The story is sweet and warm-hearted. I think it teaches some good values especially to the teenagers.

I rate this book 4 out of 5 stars.

The Prophet by Amanda Stevens (The Graveyard Queen series: Book 3)

Title:         The Prophet SubTitle:   The Graveyard Queen series: Book 3 Publisher:  Harlequin Imprint:     HarlequinMira Pub Date:  April 24, 2012 ISBN:       9780778313397 Author:     Amanda Stevens My name is Amelia Gray. I am the Graveyard Queen, a cemetery restorer who sees ghosts. My father passed down four rules to keep me safe and I’ve broken every last one. A door has opened and evil wants me back. In order to protect myself, I’ve vowed to return to those rules. But the ghost of a murdered cop needs my help to find his killer. The clues lead me to the dark side of Charleston—where witchcraft, root doctors and black magic still flourish—and back to John Devlin, a haunted police detective I should only love from afar. Now I’m faced with a terrible choice: follow the rules or follow my heart. The Graveyard Queen Series: Book 1: The Restorer (May 2011) Book 2: The Kingdom (April 2012) Book 3: The Prophet (May 2012) About the author: Amanda Stevens lives in Houston, Texas, with her husband and a black cat named Lola. She is an avid reader, a fledgling taphophile and a collector of Alfred Hitchcock memorabilia. When she’s not writing, she likes taking road trips to Austin. You can fi nd her online at www.AmandaStevens.com or www.TheGraveyardQueen.com.

In The Prophet, Amelia was back to Charleston, which also means back to her haunted Devlin. The interactions between Amelia and the ghosts made the story more creepy. The ghost detective who had requested Amelia to help investigate on his death, had added some mystery and suspense to the story, which also made Amelia becoming more dangerous. While Devlin was trying very hard to keep Amelia away from him, in order to protect her. I wish to see more on him telling Amelia about his feeling, and letting go of his death wife and daughter. I also wish to see a stronger Amelia when she's around Devlin.

Simple story line and yet the author is capable of presenting it in a very beautiful and not too complicated writing style. I enjoy reading the twist and turns, and the unexpected outcome from the whole investigation. I wish there would be more books for this series, as I really wish to see a more happy ending for Amelia and Devlin. 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.

Somebody to Love by Kristan Higgins

Title:         Somebody to Love Publisher:  Harlequin Imprint:     HarlequinHQN Pub Date:  April 24, 2012 ISBN:       9780373776580 Author:     Kristan Higgins New York Times and USA TODAY bestselling author Kristan Higgins is back with a hilarious and heartwarming new story about a rich girl who discovers that a little hard work may be just the thing she needs… After her father loses the family fortune in an insider-trading scheme, single mom Parker Welles is faced with some hard decisions. First order of business: go to Gideon’s Cove, Maine, to sell the only thing she now owns—a decrepit house in need of some serious flipping. When her father’s wingman, James Cahill, asks to go with her, she’s not thrilled…even if he is fairly gorgeous and knows his way around a toolbox. Having to fend for herself financially for the first time in her life, Parker signs on as a florist’s assistant and starts to find out who she really is. Maybe James isn’t the glib lawyer she always thought he was. And maybe the house isn’t the only thing that needs a little TLC…

Ever since I started reading Higgins's contemporary romance about 2 years ago, I have never miss any of her new book. I always like her story - very realistic, honest, and heart warming. And she always made me cry in some of the very touching and heart warming moments.

Somebody to love is about forgiving and second chance. Both Parker and James have a very disturbed childhood that have affected both their life greatly. Ever since her parents divorced when she was 10 years old, Parker had lost the love from her beloved father. When her father was getting very close to James, Parker was not happy about it. And she was thinking James wanted to get close to her because she's her father's only daughter. Due to an accident that happened when he was 12 years old, James was being denied by his parents and his brothers since then. He thought that having his own family was something far away for him. Nonetheless he could not help himself for being attracted and falling in love to Parker. 

Parker's a writer for children books. I enjoy reading how she talked with her imaginary character from the children books series. However my heart was getting heavy each time she pushed James away from her. It's not that she's not attracted to him, but she just could not trust him. While James had always been honest to Parker. I think his father had been too harsh to him. My favorite part is when James went to seek forgiveness from his parents. Whatever the outcome, I'm sure he had done his best and he should not feel guilty anymore. The ending can't be more perfect.

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.

Goddess Interrupted by Aimee Carter

Title:         Goddess Interrupted SubTitle:   The Goddess Test Series: Book II Publisher:  Harlequin Imprint:     HarlequinTEEN Pub Date:  March 27, 2012 ISBN:        9780373210459 Author:     Aimee Carter WHAT IF IMMORTALITY ISN’ T FOREVER? KATE WINTERS HAS WON IMMORTALITY. BUT IF SHE WANTS A LIFE WITH HENRY IN THE UNDERWORLD, SHE’LL HAVE TO FIGHT FOR IT. Becoming immortal wasn’t supposed to be the easy part. Though Kate is about to be crowned Queen of the Underworld, she’s as isolated as ever. And despite her growing love for Henry, ruler of the Underworld, he’s becoming ever more distant and secretive. Then, in the midst of Kate’s coronation, Henry is abducted by the only being powerful enough to kill him: the King of the Titans. As the other gods prepare for a war that could end them all, it is up to Kate to save Henry from the depths of Tartarus. But in order to navigate the endless caverns of the Underworld, Kate must enlist the help of the one person who is the greatest threat to her future. Henry’s first wife, Persephone. Book Trailer:

I'm not too sure what to expect from this book 2 from the series, but I actually enjoy this book more than The Goddess Test. The story continues from The Goddess Test, with an unexpected turn of event. I enjoy reading the surprises and the twist. Although I wish there's more about Kate and Henry. Sometimes I feel like want to strangulate Kate for having doubts on Henry; but at the same time I also feel like want to kill Henry why can't he just tell Kate what she wants? The story definitely get me hooked that I actually finish reading the book in one sitting. And the ending was just shocking! I can't believe the author is so cruel to leave such cliff hanger ending for us. Now I can't wait for the next book in the series!

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.

Grave Mercy by Robin LaFevers

Title:         Grave Mercy SubTitle:   His Fair Assassin, Book 1 Publisher:  Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Imprint:     Houghton Mifflin Pub Date:  April 03, 2012 ISBN:        9780547628349 Author:     Robin LaFevers Why be the sheep, when you can be the wolf? Seventeen-year-old Ismae escapes from the brutality of an arranged marriage into the sanctuary of the convent of St. Mortain, where the sisters still serve the gods of old. Here she learns that the god of Death Himself has blessed her with dangerous gifts—and a violent destiny. If she chooses to stay at the convent, she will be trained as an assassin and serve as a handmaiden to Death. To claim her new life, she must destroy the lives of others. Ismae’s most important assignment takes her straight into the high court of Brittany—where she finds herself woefully under prepared—not only for the deadly games of intrigue and treason, but for the impossible choices she must make. For how can she deliver Death’s vengeance upon a target who, against her will, has stolen her heart?

I like the book cover very much! It's the book cover that attracts me at the first place. The story is very interesting. It's a historical fiction, with some elements of the romance in it. The story may look a little dark with those training and killings being an assassin, but nothing brutal. I'm intrigued with those assassin trainings from the convent. Even though the trainings and the rules in convent was very strict, but it did not stop Ismae from making good friends with few other girls there. And instead just blindly follow the order from the convent, I'm glad that Ismae at the end actually give some time to ponder and do her own analysis before carrying out her duty as handmaiden. And her honesty and courage telling the abbess about her mind. It's like you can just see how she has grow by carrying out the order from the convent. It's just a little less convincing that how naive she is when comes to between man and woman, despite those seduction lessons at the convent as part of her training. Duval is another like-able character. I like the way he protects his sister. And Anne, being strong despite her young age.

In summary, Grave Mercy is a good read. Although I feel that the introduction is a little lengthy and slow. But nonetheless I enjoy reading it very much, especially the part Ismae works as the spy in the court. I'm looking forward for the next book in the series next Spring.

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 Hunger Games (The Hunger Games #1) by Suzanne Collins

From Goodreads: n the ruins of a place once known as North America lies the nation of Panem, a shining Capitol surrounded by twelve outlying districts. The Capitol is harsh and cruel and keeps the districts in line by forcing them all to send one boy and one girl between the ages of twelve and eighteen to participate in the annual Hunger Games, a fight to the death on live TV. Sixteen-year-old Katniss Everdeen, who lives alone with her mother and younger sister Primrose, regards it as a death sentence when she steps forward to take her sister's place in the Games. But Katniss has been close to dead before — and survival, for her, is second nature. Without really meaning to, she becomes a contender. But if she is to win, she will have to start making choices that will weigh survival against humanity and life against love.

I have been reading a lots of good comments about this Hunger Games series. I'm not too sure what my expectations suppose to be, but I feel depressing reading this book 1. Why? Because I found the story is kind of cruel. I find it's a bit hard for me to accept that the children are forced to kill each other for the sake of entertainment for the others. How cruel it is. But that's this Hunger Games is all about.

Despite depressing, I would say this whole story is very well written. The plot is good, the characters are well developed with strong heroine. Katniss definitely has strong will to stay alive in the Hunger Games despite having mixed feeling to Peeta. Peeta even though does not have those survival skills that Katniss is having, but he definitely knows what he's good at and manage to survive long enough until Katniss comes to save him. About Haymitch, I almost get cheated by his addiction on alcohol. He's definitely a smart and brilliant one when he's sober.

Although depressing, but I do enjoy reading the part when they are in the arena. Who is ally and who is enemy? Katniss has to make the right judgment and choices in order to survive. In the arena, just physically strong and skillful are not sufficient. The Hunger Games is a show. Response from the audience do play some parts.

Though depressing, but I think it's worth reading. I rate it 4 out of 5 stars.

The Bro-Magnet by Lauren Baratz-Logsted

Title:         THE BRO-MAGNET Publisher:     TKA Distribution Pub Date:     December 12, 2011 ISBN:         9781937776244 Author:     Lauren Baratz-Logsted Women have been known to lament, "Always a bridesmaid, never a bride." For Johnny Smith, the problem is, "Always a Best Man, never a groom." At age 33, housepainter Johnny has been Best Man eight times. The ultimate man's man, Johnny loves the Mets, the Jets, his weekly poker game, and the hula girl lamp that hangs over his basement pool table. Johnny has the instant affection of nearly every man he meets, but one thing he doesn't have is a woman to share his life with, and he wants that desperately. When Johnny meets District Attorney Helen Troy, he decides to renounce his bro-magnet ways in order to impress her. With the aid and advice of his friends and family, soon he's transforming his wardrobe, buying throw pillows, ditching the hula girl lamp, getting a cat and even changing his name to the more mature-sounding John. And through it all, he's pretending to have no interest in sports, which Helen claims to abhor. As things heat up with Helen, the questions arise: Will Johnny finally get the girl? And, if he's successful in that pursuit, who will he be now that he's no longer really himself? THE BRO-MAGNET is a rollicking comedic novel about what one man is willing to give up for the sake of love.

Bro-Magnet is like a chic-lit, except it's from a man's POV. I don't normally read chic-lit book but I found The Bro-Magnet is very interesting. It's like reading Johnny telling his very own story on how doom he is when come to woman. The narration surprisingly is not boring at all. Despite his tone of self deprecation, but his wicked sense of humour made him quite a likeable character. Throughout all these years, he has no luck with any woman. He attracts men easily, but not women. The only woman that likes him and stick around him is a lesbian. His buddies are getting married one by one and he desperately wants someone in his life too. He decided to make some changes, doing things that he has not thought of doing before this, and hiding his real self in order to impress his date. In another word, he's faking himself. But will that really make the relationship works?

My favorite quote from the book -

It's like you're erasing the real you and replacing it with someone entirely different all to impress one person. What happens if it doesn't work out? Do you get rid of the throw pillows and put the hula girl chandelier back up? Or what if it does work out - do you go on being someone who's not really you for the rest of your life?

How true it is. And how do Johnny know if his date is showing her true self, or also acting like him, hiding her true self from him?

The Bro-Magnet is an easy and relaxing read, and fun too. Despite his bad luck with women, Johnny actually has a very good heart and treats his friends and family very well. It's not just about romance, it's a story about friendship and family too. 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.

Hearts that Survive: A Novel of the Titanic by Yvonne Lehman

Title:         Hearts that Survive: A Novel of the Titanic Publisher:  Abingdon Press Pub Date:  March 01, 2012 ISBN:        9781426744884 Author:     Yvonne Lehman On April 15, 1912, Lydia Beaumont is on her way to a new life with a boundless hope in love and faith. Her new friendship with Caroline Chadwick is bonded even more as they plan Lydia’s wedding on board the “grandest ship ever built.” Then both women suffer tragic losses when the “unsinkable” Titanic goes down. Can each survive the scars the disaster left on their lives? Decades later, Alan Morris feels like a failure until he discovers he is the descendant of an acclaimed, successful, heroic novelist who went down with the Titanic. Will he find his identity with the past, or will he listen to Joanna Bettencourt, Caroline’s granddaughter, who says inner peace and success come only with a personal relationship with the Lord? Will those who survived and their descendants be able to find a love more powerful than their pain?

This is the second book about Titanic that I read this year. Needless to say, another touching story. It's not only about love, it's about friendship too. I like to read about the love between Lydia and John Ancell. And the friendship between Lydia, Caroline and Bess. I admire Lydia for making the decision to protect her and her baby. And although I don't quite like Craven, but somehow I change my view on him after he knew the truth about the child. Lydia was such so lucky to have 2 men that love her so much and protect her all the way in her life. Although Lydia and Caroline only get to know each other in Titanic, but the tragedy had made their friendship strong and long lasting until many years later. Caroline is another strong character that I like very much.

The story started with their journey in Titanic, the tragedy, then surviving the heart break in a total new place and the next generation. The part on the next generation is not as details, but I was drawn into the whole story and each characters, as if I have known them for very long time.

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.