Book Review- The Flame Never Dies

I finished reading The Flame Never Dies ( The Stars Never Rise #2) by Rachel Vincent last night for an Around the World ARC Tour. 

From Goodreads:

Nina Kane was born to be an exorcist. And since uncovering the horrifying truth—that the war against demons is far from over—seventeen-year-old Nina and her pregnant younger sister, Mellie, have been on the run, incinerating the remains of the demon horde as they go.

In the badlands, Nina, Mellie, and Finn, the fugitive and rogue exorcist who saved her life, find allies in a group of freedom fighters. They also face a new threat: Pandemonia, a city full of demons. But this fresh new hell is the least of Nina’s worries. The well of souls ran dry more than a century ago, drained by the demons secretly living among humans, and without a donor soul, Mellie’s child will die within hours of its birth.

Nina isn’t about to let that happen…even if it means she has to make the ultimate sacrifice.  

Rachel Vincent is one of my favorite authors, and I really liked the previous book in this series, so I was excited to read this one.  And it didn't disappoint.

The author writes in a way that just flows to me.  It's not too detail-y, but it's not scant in descriptions either.  The characters seem real (or as real as a character in a paranormal book can be) and speak in ways that sound right in my head.  And the plots always keep me engaged.  Just enough action and character development.

There were some places in the book that I found myself confused.  I'm not sure if it was because I stink at remembering exactly what happened in past books or what.  But I quickly caught on and plowed through the book. 

There were some definite surprises that I didn't see coming.  Maybe I should have, but I didn't.  And oh, one of them was really good!

I look forward to reading what's going to happen next in the series!

I gave this book a rating of 4/5.

*FTC Disclosure: I was given this book for free for an honest review as part of the Around the World Tours.

Book Review- Me Before You

I finished Me Before You by Jojo Moyes last week.

From Goodreads:

They had nothing in common until love gave them everything to lose . . .
Louisa Clark is an ordinary girl living an exceedingly ordinary life—steady boyfriend, close family—who has barely been farther afield than their tiny village. She takes a badly needed job working for ex–Master of the Universe Will Traynor, who is wheelchair bound after an accident. Will has always lived a huge life—big deals, extreme sports, worldwide travel—and now he’s pretty sure he cannot live the way he is.

Will is acerbic, moody, bossy—but Lou refuses to treat him with kid gloves, and soon his happiness means more to her than she expected. When she learns that Will has shocking plans of his own, she sets out to show him that life is still worth living.

A Love Story for this generation, Me Before You brings to life two people who couldn’t have less in common—a heartbreakingly romantic novel that asks, What do you do when making the person you love happy also means breaking your own heart?


We were leaving for a cruise and I wanted a good chick-lit book to take with me to read while lounging in the sun.  I really had no idea what I was in the mood for, but once in the store I saw this book and knew immediately that it was the one I wanted to read.

Yes, this book definitely has some chick-lit qualities but it has a  much more serious undertone.  And without giving anything away, it's a highly debated topic and one that I side with Will completely--I can't say that I wouldn't choose it if I were in his shoes.

Anyways, I loved Lou.  She danced to the beat of her own drum, especially fashion-wise and accepted it.  She was totally relatable and someone I could easily see being friends with.  And Will--yeah, he's the type I would have crushed on.  I liked watching their relationship grow and it made me sad to read the climax of it.

I'm really looking forward to the movie.  I hope it lives up to my expectations.  And I'm hoping to get my hands on the sequel soon!

I gave this book a rating of 4/5.

*FTC Disclosure: I bought this book.

Book Review- The Orphan Queen

I finished reading The Orphan Queen by Jodi Meadows last week.

From Goodreads:

Wilhelmina has a hundred identities.

She is a princess. When the Indigo Kingdom conquered her homeland, Wilhelmina and other orphaned children of nobility were taken to Skyvale, the Indigo Kingdom’s capital. Ten years later, they are the Ospreys, experts at stealth and theft. With them, Wilhelmina means to take back her throne.

She is a spy. Wil and her best friend, Melanie, infiltrate Skyvale Palace to study their foes. They assume the identities of nobles from a wraith-fallen kingdom, but enemies fill the palace, and Melanie’s behavior grows suspicious. With Osprey missions becoming increasingly dangerous and their leader more unstable, Wil can’t trust anyone.

She is a threat. Wraith is the toxic by-product of magic, and for a century using magic has been forbidden. Still the wraith pours across the continent, reshaping the land and animals into fresh horrors. Soon it will reach the Indigo Kingdom. Wilhelmina’s magic might be the key to stopping the wraith, but if the vigilante Black Knife discovers Wil’s magic, she will vanish like all the others.

Jodi Meadows introduces a vivid new fantasy full of intrigue, romance, dangerous magic, and one girl’s battle to reclaim her place in the world.

It took me a few chapters to get into this book.  But once I did, I didn't want to put it down!

I loved Will.  I loved that she was a Princess and would do whatever it took to get her kingdom back.  She was strong.  But vulnerable too.  The perfect mix.  And I loved Black Knife.  I expected him to be mean and tough, but quickly learned how sweet he could be.  I thought I had his identity pegged, but I was so wrong.  Didn't see that one coming.  But it fit!

There was lots of action in this story, but not too much.  Enough to keep me hanging on and not turn away.  The ending with the wraith left me questioning things.  And then the very end was such a big cliffhanger!  I need to get my hands on the second book, The Mirror King!

I gave this book a rating of 4/5.

*FTC Disclosure: I received this book for free from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.

Book Review-Unbreakable

I just finished reading Unbreakable (The Legion #1) by Kami Garcia.

From Goodreads:

Supernatural meets The Da Vinci Code in this action-packed paranormal thriller, the first book in a new series from New York Times bestselling author Kami Garcia.

I never believed in ghosts. Until one tried to kill me.

When Kennedy Waters finds her mother dead, her world begins to unravel. She doesn’t know that paranormal forces in a much darker world are the ones pulling the strings. Not until identical twins Jared and Lukas Lockhart break into Kennedy’s room and destroy a dangerous spirit sent to kill her. The brothers reveal that her mother was part of an ancient secret society responsible for protecting the world from a vengeful demon — a society whose five members were all murdered on the same night.

Now Kennedy has to take her mother’s place in the Legion if she wants to uncover the truth and stay alive. Along with new Legion members Priest and Alara, the teens race to find the only weapon that might be able to destroy the demon — battling the deadly spirits he controls every step of the way.

Suspense, romance, and the paranormal meet in this chilling urban fantasy, the first book in a new series from Kami Garcia, bestselling coauthor of the Beautiful Creatures novels.

I wasn't really sure what I was going to think about this one.  I wanted to read it because I'd heard of the author but I wasn't really sure about the premise.  I was pleasantly surprised though--I really liked it!

The action kept me hooked.  The whole idea of the Legion and how the responsibility of the members is passed down through the generations.  And the ghosts and demons in the stories were scary without being too dark which turns me off.  It all just worked.

And of course every good story needs at least a little bit of romance.  And this had a slight love triangle in it.  Plus, come on--two of the main guys are identical twins! (which I'm obsessed with--considering my hubby is a twin!)

I've already looked up the title for the next book in the series, Unmarked, and added it to my wish list!

I gave this book a rating of 4/5.

*FTC Disclosure: I was given this book for free for an honest review as part of the Around the World Tours.

Book Review- How It Feels to Fly

I finished reading How It Feels to Fly by Kathryn Holmes the other night for an Around the World ARC Tour.

From Goodreads:

The movement is all that matters.

For as long as Samantha can remember, she’s wanted to be a professional ballerina. She’s lived for perfect pirouettes, sky-high extensions, and soaring leaps across the stage. Then her body betrayed her.

The change was gradual. Stealthy.

Failed diets. Disapproving looks. Whispers behind her back. The result: crippling anxiety about her appearance, which threatens to crush her dancing dreams entirely. On her dance teacher’s recommendation, Sam is sent to a summer treatment camp for teen artists and athletes who are struggling with mental and emotional obstacles. If she can make progress, she’ll be allowed to attend a crucial ballet intensive. But when asked to open up about her deepest insecurities, secret behaviors, and paralyzing fears to complete strangers, Sam can’t cope.

What I really need is a whole new body.

Sam forms an unlikely bond with Andrew, a former college football player who’s one of her camp counselors. As they grow closer, Andrew helps Sam see herself as he does—beautiful. But just as she starts to believe that there’s more between them than friendship, disappointing news from home sends her into a tailspin. With her future uncertain and her body against her, will Sam give in to the anxiety that imprisons her?

I needed something light after the last book I read.  And while the topic of this book is not light in any way, shape, or form, I easily got absorbed in the story.

I love dance.  While I'm not a dancer, I've always been fascinated athletes, actors, and dancers. So reading about this summer camp for gifted teens in those worlds with issues was something I was definitely interested in.

I really liked Sam.  And I felt so bad for her.  She was struggling through so much and then what happens at camp.  I had a feeling it would happen but I was hoping it wouldn't.

I liked reading how the campers grew and changed and became closer.  And I liked the positive talk that came from the book.  I think it would be a great book for teens to read.

I gave this book a rating of 4/5.

How It Feels to Fly will be released on June 14, 2016.

*FTC Disclosure: I was given this book for free for an honest review as part of the Around the World Tours.

Book Review- The Season of You & Me

I just finished reading The Season of You & Me by Robin Constantine for an Around the World ARC Tour.

From Goodreads:

Cassidy Emmerich is determined to make this summer—the last before her boyfriend heads off to college—unforgettable. What she doesn’t count on is her boyfriend breaking up with her. Now, instead of being poolside with him, Cass is over a hundred miles away, spending the summer with her estranged father and his family at their bed-and-breakfast at the Jersey Shore and working as the newest counselor at Camp Manatee.

Bryan Lakewood is sick of nevers. You’ll never walk. You’ll never surf. You’ll never slow dance with your date at prom. One miscalculated step and Bryan’s life changed forever—now he’s paralyzed and needs to use a wheelchair. This is the first summer he’s back at his former position at Camp Manatee and ready to reclaim some of his independence, in spite of those who question if he’s up for the job.

Cass is expecting two months dealing with heartbreak.
Bryan is expecting a summer of tough adjustments.
Neither of them is expecting to fall in love

This was such a sweet story.  It gave us a typical teenage breakup/new love story but threw in an unusual character in that the main guy was in a wheelchair.  It was so refreshing to read about a great, strong guy who wasn't your typical main character.

I loved both Cassidy and Bryan.  Cassidy is your typical heartbroken teen.  Who wouldn't want to get away for a summer after you've been cheated on?  And she had the perfect place to go.  And then there's Bryan.  I've already told you that I thought he was great.  And I loved how they were together.
Oh, and Hunter.  Man that kid was awesome!!  He was so cute and he cracked me up!

I loved how this book gave us a a sweet love story and showed us that having a going through a tragedy doesn't mean giving up hope.

I gave this book a rating of 4/5.

The Season of You & Me will be released on May 10, 2016.

*FTC Disclosure: I was given this book for free for an honest review as part of the Around the World Tours.

Book Review-- Red Queen

Late last week I finished reading Red Queen by Victoria Aveyard.

From Goodreads:

This is a world divided by blood – red or silver.

The Reds are commoners, ruled by a Silver elite in possession of god-like superpowers. And to Mare Barrow, a seventeen-year-old Red girl from the poverty-stricken Stilts, it seems like nothing will ever change.

That is, until she finds herself working in the Silver Palace. Here, surrounded by the people she hates the most, Mare discovers that, despite her red blood, she possesses a deadly power of her own. One that threatens to destroy the balance of power.

Fearful of Mare’s potential, the Silvers hide her in plain view, declaring her a long-lost Silver princess, now engaged to a Silver prince. Despite knowing that one misstep would mean her death, Mare works silently to help the Red Guard, a militant resistance group, and bring down the Silver regime.

But this is a world of betrayal and lies, and Mare has entered a dangerous dance – Reds against Silvers, prince against prince, and Mare against her own heart ...

I wasn't too sure I would like this one before I started it.  I'm not really sure why though.  But once I started, I was hooked!

I really liked Mare.  I liked that she was fiesty and even though she was living the life of a princess in the palace, she didn't succumb to their ways and still fought for her family and people.

I really torn between Maven and Cal.  I knew something fishy was going on but I couldn't quite decide what or where...or with which boy.  And I was totally shocked when I found out!  And that wasn't the only surprise..there was another one at the end that I didn't see coming!

I'm so glad this book is a series.  I cannot wait to get my hands on the next one, and there's several novellas that I need to read too!

I gave this book a rating of 4/5.

*FTC Disclosure: I traded this book with a friend.

Book Review- Losing Gabriel: A Love Story

I just finished reading Losing Gabriel: A Love Story by Lurlene McDaniel for an Around the World ARC Tour.

From Goodreads:

This emotionally-charged novel about three high school seniors who in the midst of planning their futures after high school are instead faced with present circumstances that force them to grasp what it means to make choices, take responsibility, and truly become an adult.
 
Lani Kennedy has dreamed of becoming a nurse since her cousin Arie died of leukemia. Nothing will stop her from getting into the local nursing program.

Dawson Burke hasn’t dealt with his mom’s death, and he’s angry at his dad for moving them to Windemere right before senior year. He grudgingly accepts that he must wait till graduation before he leaves.

Sloan Quentin can belt out a song and knows that her band is her ticket to fame and fortune. When she discovers that her boyfriend—the band’s lead guitarist—is cheating on her, she finds comfort—and revenge—in someone else’s arms.

When the lives of Lani, Dawson, and Sloan become entangled in unexpected ways, reality hits harder than anyone could have imagined.

I used to love Lurlene McDaniel when I was a teen. I gobbled every book of hers that came out.  So when I saw I had to read this as part of the tour group, I jumped on board.

This book seemed to be more of a "new adult" (I know they used that terminology for a little while but not sure it stuck."  It wasn't quite YA--the first part was but the second part was a little older.  Anyways, it had more of a mature feel that her other books do.

And I quite enjoyed it.  It had the usual combination of sadness mixed with hope that I loved when I was a kid.  But this one had a different take on juvenile illness than the other's did.  I don't want to give too much away though.  I'll be on the lookout for Lurlene McDaniel's next books, just like I did when I was younger!

I gave this book a rating of 4/5.

Losing Gabriel: A Love Story will be released on June 14, 2016.

*FTC Disclosure: I was given this book for free for an honest review as part of the Around the World Tours.

Book Review- A Walk in the Sun

I finished reading A Walk in the Sun by Michelle Zink last night for an Around the World ARC Tour.

From Goodreads:

In this Bridges of Madison County for teens, Michelle Zink weaves a magnetic tale about summer love that stays with you long after the seasons change.

Rose Darrow never wanted to spend her life working on her family’s farm. But when her family is rocked by an unexpected tragedy she has no choice but to put her plans for the future—and dreams of escaping her small town—on hold.

Bodhi Lowell left home as a kid and hasn’t looked back. Years of working farm jobs has given him the one thing he wants most: freedom to travel without answering to anyone. He’s already looking past his job at Darrow Farm and plans on leaving in September—until he meets Rose.

Neither Rose nor Bodhi can deny the sparks flying between them, but with the end of summer looming, they must decide if it is better to have loved and lost than never to have loved at all....

This was a sweet, light little book.  YA contemporary books are hit and miss with me.  Sometimes they seem too immature and annoy me.  And other times they're just nice to escape into.  And this book fell into the latter.

I liked Rose.  I felt so bad for her--she was doing the right thing even though she was stuck in small town, running a farm that she hadn't planned on.  And all because she lost her mother, which is devastating enough, which caused her father to become a recluse.  I also really liked Bodhi.  I felt bad for him too. So the two of them were the perfect pair.

I had different ideas in my head of how the ending could have turned out and I liked the way it was wrapped up.  It fit the story well and was just right.  Although, honestly, I could easily have read more and been happy!  I have other books by Michelle Zink on my bookshelves and I look forward to reading them!

I gave this book  a rating of 4/5.

A Walk in the Sun will be released on May 3, 2016.

*FTC Disclosure: I was given this book for free for an honest review as part of the Around the World Tours.

Book Review- Reign of Shadows

I finished reading Reign of Shadows by Sophie Jordan on Thursday for an Around the World ARC Tour.

From Goodreads:

Seventeen years ago, an eclipse cloaked the kingdom of Relhok in perpetual darkness. In the chaos, an evil chancellor murdered the king and queen and seized their throne. Luna, Relhok’s lost princess, has been hiding in a tower ever since. Luna’s survival depends on the world believing she is dead.

But that doesn’t stop Luna from wanting more. When she meets Fowler, a mysterious archer braving the woods outside her tower, Luna is drawn to him despite the risk. When the tower is attacked, Luna and Fowler escape together. But this world of darkness is more treacherous than Luna ever realized.

With every threat stacked against them, Luna and Fowler find solace in each other. But with secrets still unspoken between them, falling in love might be their most dangerous journey yet.

With lush writing and a star–crossed romance, Reign of Shadows is Sophie Jordan at her best.

This story has the makings of a great fairy tale.  And it had me hooked.  There was romance, and evil king, crazy characters (night dwellers), and even a tower!

I really liked Luna.  She has a unique characteristic that I didn't see coming at first.  And it made her seem so strong.  I feel like her birth has something to do with the eclipse and why they're in the dark, but I can't put my finger on it yet.  And I liked Fowler too--classic tough guy turned softie.  

There was lots of actions in this one.  And just enough romance.  I wanted to keep reading to find out what was going to happen.  It ends on a cliff hanger.  And quite a weird one, at that.  It'll be interesting to see where the next book goes!

I gave this book a rating of 4/5.

Reign of Shadows will be released on February 9, 2016.

*FTC Disclosure: I was given this book for free for an honest review as part of the Around the World Tours.

Book Review- In Real Life

I finished reading In Real Life by Jessica Love on Friday for an Around the World ARC Tour.

From Goodreads:

Hannah Cho and Nick Cooper have been best friends since 8th grade. They talk for hours on the phone, regularly shower each other with presents, and know everything there is to know about one another.

There's just one problem: Hannah and Nick have never actually met.

Hannah has spent her entire life doing what she's supposed to, but when her senior year spring break plans get ruined by a rule-breaker, she decides to break a rule or two herself. She impulsively decides to road trip to Vegas, her older sister and BFF in tow, to surprise Nick and finally declare her more-than-friend feelings for him.

Hannah's romantic gesture backfires when she gets to Vegas and meets Nick's girlfriend, whom he failed to mention. And it turns out his relationship status isn't the only thing he's been lying to her about. Hannah knows the real Nick can't be that different from the online Nick she knows and loves, but now she only has one night in Sin City to figure out what her feelings for Nick really are, all while discovering how life can change when you break the rules every now and then.

Contemporary novels are hit and miss with me.  Sometimes they seem to juvenile.  But when a friend told me I had to read it, I said okay.  And I was glad I did!

In so many ways, I could identify with Hannah.  I was the straight-A student who had her life planned and followed all the rules.  And I would love have to loved to have seen my younger self do something spontaneous like Hannah did.

I felt so conflicted about Nick.  I liked him but for a while I didn't like him--I didn't get the whole lying about the girlfriend thing.  He seemed to really love Hannah but then he also seemed completely into his girlfriend.  And the go-by-the-rules part of me squirmed at some parts of the story since it veered too much into the cheating world for me.  But.  But--it ended how it should have, even if it all wrapped up a little too  nicely.

Not that I didn't enjoy it, because I did.  There was lots of drama to fall into and antics in Las Vegas.  And several mentions of Disney things (yes!!)  So if you're looking for a contemporary YA novel to dig in to, this could be right up your alley.

I gave this book a rating of 4/5.

In Real Life will be released on March 1, 2016.

*FTC Disclosure: I was given this book for free for an honest review as part of the Around the World Tours.

Book Review- The Queen

I read The Queen (The Selection Stories #0.4) by Kiera Cass last week.

From Goodreads:

Before America Singer's story began, another girl came to the palace to compete for the hand of a
different prince….
Don't miss this digital original novella set in the captivating world of Kiera Cass's #1 New York Times bestselling Selection series. This prequel story takes place before the events of The Selection and is told from the point of view of Prince Maxon's mother, Amberly. Discover a whole new Selection with this inside look at how Maxon's parents met—and how an ordinary girl named Amberly became a beloved queen.

I series just adore this series.  I loved reading more about Amberly's side of her Selection.  My only complaint--I want to read more.  I totally think that this could be a whole spinoff series.  I'd gobble it up!

I didn't remember reading about Amberly being so sickly so this was interesting to read.  And I didn't realize Prince Maxon's dad was so sweet either.  Yup, just love it!

I gave this book a rating of 4/5.

*FTC Disclosure: I bought this book..

Book Review- House Trained

I finished reading House Trained by Jackie Bouchard last week for a Booksparks Blog Tour.

From Goodreads:

Alex Halstad, a childless-by-choice interior designer and dog mom, is a true perfectionist. But her orderly life turns chaotic when the teenage daughter her husband, Barry, never knew he had shows up on their doorstep...with a baby girl of her own in tow. While Alex’s dog enthusiastically welcomes the new arrivals, Alex struggles with the loss of her steady routine. She desperately needs peace and quiet to get her business back on track before Barry finds out she’s spent most of their savings. Meanwhile, the arrival of the girls stirs up old insecurities, and Alex can’t help but worry that Barry’s ex will make an entrance too. With her tidy life a distant memory, will Alex be able to learn from her dog the true meaning of love and acceptance?

From bestselling author Jackie Bouchard comes a humorous and heartwarming look at how life creates opportunities to love in surprising ways.

I love books about dogs!  And babies!  So of course I was excited to read this!  (the story didn't really revolve around the dog but she was mentioned often).

I liked Alex.  She was a dog-mom and confident in her choice not to have children.  I found myself relating to her in so many ways in her life (although I do want children--just don't have them yet).  I loved the way she embraced her (newly-discovered) step-daughter and her baby.

And I loved Wren.  I feel like most teenage moms are portrayed as rebellious or pitiful but Wren was a great mom and I felt like even though the baby was an accident, she was secure and well-loved.

There was lots of drama in the book--money issues, ex-issues, relationship issues, teenage motherhood, Even a little tragedy at the end.  I'm not sure I would classify it as chick-lit-while it was funny at some points, it's a little heavier than that.  But it was easy to fall into and I look forward to reading more by Jackie Bouchard.

I gave this book a rating of 4/5.

House Trained will be released on October 20, 2015.

*FTC Disclosure: I received this book for free from the publisher in exchange for an honest review

Book Review- The Legacy of Us

I finished reading The Legacy of Us by Kristin Contino on Monday night as part of a Booksparks Blog Tour.

From Goodreads:

Taking readers from 1905 Italy to present-day Philadelphia, The Legacy of Us uncovers how the lives of three generations of women are changed by love, loss and one little necklace...

Liz Moretti thought she knew almost everything about her grandmother, Ella, from her love of "The Golden Girls" to the perfect pound cake recipe. But when Ella passes away and Liz finds a cameo locket with a marriage proposal engraved inside (from a man who was not her grandfather), she realizes that sometimes a person's secrets are discovered only after they're gone.

On top of losing Ella, Liz's career as a jewelry designer is stagnant and her love life lacks sparkle, too. When she reconnects with the one who got away, Liz thinks maybe things are finally starting to look up. But after a few drinks and a trip down a flight of stairs, Liz wakes up to realize the cameo is gone. Her ex offers to look for it, but so does Justin, the intriguing new guy in her apartment building.

While dealing with her feelings for two very different men and generally trying to reinvent her mess of a life, Liz finds answers and solace in Ella's diary. The story of the cameo, and the relationship between her grandmother and great-grandmother, an outspoken socialite from Italy, inspires Liz to grow up and accept responsibility for her missteps. Eventually she must choose between the life she thought she wanted and the promise of something better.

I enjoyed reading this story told over three generations.  Each woman had their own issues to deal with, including relationships and family.  I thought maybe the switching of the characters would get confusing, but I didn't find it to be a problem.

I easily identified with Liz, especially about how her past relationship wouldn't stay in the past.  And finding someone better for her.  And I loved reading about her great-grandmother and the love and loss she went through.  

This was a light story that had a little bit of everything in it--love, family, loss, and a tiny bit of mystery.  

I gave this book a rating of 4/5.

*FTC Disclosure: I received this book for free from the publisher in exchange for an honest review

Book Review- For the Record

I finished reading For the Record by Charlotte Huang a few nights ago for an Around the World ARC Tour.

From Goodreads:

Chelsea thought she knew what being a rock star was like . . . until she became one. After losing a TV talent show, she slid back into small-town anonymity. But one phone call changed everything

Now she’s the lead singer of the band Melbourne, performing in sold-out clubs every night and living on a bus with three gorgeous and talented guys. The bummer is that the band barely tolerates her. And when teen hearthrob Lucas Rivers take an interest in her, Chelsea is suddenly famous, bringing Melbourne to the next level—not that they’re happy about that. Her feelings for Beckett, Melbourne’s bassist, are making life even more complicated.

Chelsea only has the summer tour to make the band—and their fans—love her. If she doesn’t, she’ll be back in Michigan for senior year, dying a slow death. The paparazzi, the haters, the grueling schedule . . . Chelsea believed she could handle it. But what if she can’t?

I've always loved stories about characters that are famous but I think a rock star is a new one for me.

I really liked Chelsea.  I thought that she stayed true to herself for the most part.  Even the dating of the movie star--I mean what teenager who is suddenly in the limelight would turn down their heartthrob??

And I felt so bad for the drama she had in her past.  How horrible!  And what she went through with her best friend towards the end of the story.  I knew her pain but I could never be that forgiving.

This was a light, fun look into a rock star's world.  And I sure wouldn't hate it if there was ever going to be a sequel!

I gave this book a rating of 4/5.

For the Record will be released on November 10. 2015.

*FTC Disclosure: I was given this book for free for an honest review as part of the Around the World Tours.

Book Review- Everything, Everything

Last night I finished Everything, Everything by Nicola Yoon for an Around the World ARC Tour.

From Goodreads:

My disease is as rare as it is famous. Basically, I’m allergic to the world. I don’t leave my house,

But then one day, a moving truck arrives next door. I look out my window, and I see him. He’s tall, lean and wearing all black—black T-shirt, black jeans, black sneakers, and a black knit cap that covers his hair completely. He catches me looking and stares at me. I stare right back. His name is Olly.

Maybe we can’t predict the future, but we can predict some things. For example, I am certainly going to fall in love with Olly. It’s almost certainly going to be a disaster.
have not left my house in seventeen years. The only people I ever see are my mom and my nurse, Carla.

I knew it, I knew it!

Okay, I'm a sucker for teens with medical diseases.  So this one seemed right up my alley.  And I was easily sucked in.

I felt so bad for Maddy.  I can't imagine having a disease where I can't be part of the normal, every day world.  And I liked Olly too.  He was different--in a good way.

And oh the twist at the end.  I so saw it coming.  And then thought I was wrong.  But I was right.  And I was glad I was---it was so twisted!

I gave this book a rating of 4/5.

Everything, Everything will be released on September 1, 2015.

*FTC Disclosure: I was given this book for free for an honest review as part of the Around the World Tours.

Book Review- After Eden

I finished reading After Eden by Helen Douglas on Thursday.

From Goodreads:

The day Eden met Ryan changed her world forever. Actually, not just her world. Ryan has time traveled from the future to save the world. In a few weeks, Eden’s best friend Connor will discover a new planet—one where human life is possible. The discovery will make him famous. It will also ruin the world as we know it. When Ryan asks Eden for help, she must choose between saving the world and saving her best friend’s greatest achievement. And a crush on Ryan complicates things more than she could have imagined. Because Connor is due to make the discovery after the girl he loves breaks his heart. That girl is Eden.

Grounded in a realistic teen world with fascinating sci-fi elements, After Eden is a heart-pounding love triangle that’s perfect for dystopian fans looking for something new to devour.

Sci-fi doesn't normall do it for me.  But I so enjoyed this one.  The whole premise of Ryan coming back in time to stop one small action from happening to save the world is crazy to think about.  And Eden's role in it as well.

Eden and Ryan were pretty okay as main characters.  Their relationship was the typical insta-love that you often read about in YA books. I did not like Connor, however.  He just seemed like a jerk the whole time.  I get that he was jealous of Ryan but he really had no redeeming qualities in my eye.

I think the reason I flew through this book was because of the whole plot.  (usually it's the characters).

There's one twist at the end that I didn't see coming.  Maybe I should have but thinking back, I still didn't see any clues.  There's a second book in the series and I'll be interested in reading that one.

I gave this book a rating of 4/5.

*FTC Disclosure: I was given this book for free for an honest review as part of the Around the World Tours.

Book Review- The Body Institute

I just finished reading The Body Institute by Carol Riggs for an Around the World ARC Tour.

From Goodreads:

Meet Morgan Dey, one of the top teen Reducers at The Body Institute.

Thanks to cutting-edge technology, Morgan can temporarily take over another girl’s body, get her in shape, and then return to her own body—leaving her client slimmer, more toned, and feeling great. Only there are a few catches…

For one, Morgan won’t remember what happens in her “Loaner” body. Once she’s done, she won’t recall walks with her new friend Matt, conversations with the super-cute Reducer she’s been text-flirting with, or the uneasy feeling she has that the director of The Body Institute is hiding something. Still, it’s all worth it in the name of science. Until the glitches start…

Suddenly, residual memories from her Loaner are cropping up in Morgan’s mind. She’s feeling less like herself and more like someone else. And when protests from an anti–Body Institute organization threaten her safety, she’ll have to decide if being a Reducer is worth the cost of her body and soul…

The idea of The Body Institute is such an intriguing concept to me.  How scientists, doctors, and technology could take your brain map and insert it into another body is so crazy to imagine!  Yet, it's almost believable that it could happen in the way future.

Although this future is intense.  Money is now credits.  The government controls so much, including people's health and weight and taxes those who aren't skinny enough.  Crazy to think about (although I'd be all for them taxing smokers.)

And then what the Body Institute is hiding.  It all made me think.  I mean I *know* it's not possible. But it still leaves a little unsettling feeling.

I really liked Morgan.  I got her and understood her.  She was real.  I liked that she wanted to help people become better versions of themselves.

I don't see any indication that there is going to be a sequel but I would so love for there to be!  I would love to know what happens to Morgan and the Body Institute.

I gave this book a rating of 4/5.

The Body Institute will be released on September 1, 2015.

*FTC Disclosure: I was given this book for free for an honest review as part of the Around the World Tours.

Book Review- My Life Next Door

I finished My Life Next Door by Huntley Fitzpatrick last week while on vacation in Hilton Head.

From Goodreads:

The Garretts are everything the Reeds are not. Loud, messy, affectionate. And every day from her

As the two fall fiercely for each other, stumbling through the awkwardness and awesomeness of first love, Jase's family embraces Samantha - even as she keeps him a secret from her own. Then something unthinkable happens, and the bottom drops out of Samantha's world. She's suddenly faced with an impossible decision. Which perfect family will save her? Or is it time she saved herself?

A transporting debut about family, friendship, first romance, and how to be true to one person you love without betraying another.
rooftop perch, Samantha Reed wishes she was one of them . . . until one summer evening, Jase Garrett climbs up next to her and changes everything.

I got easily absorbed into the story.  I thought I knew what the unthinkable thing might be but I wasn't even close.

I liked Samantha.  She was easy to relate to and real.  And Jase was your typical great guy-next-door.  They really were just the perfect couple.

Even the side characters were great.  I wanted to hate Tim, I really did.  He was a complete screwup and seemed like such a loser.  But he always seemed to redeem himself.  And he really wasn't such a bad guy.  I also loved all of Jase's family.  The little kids were so cute and funny and his parents were just all around great.

I liked how Samantha handled the secret.  Yes, not ideal at first but she came around and did the right thing.

I'm looking forward to reading the next book in the series, The Boy Most Likely To, which is all about Tim and Alice.

I gave this book a rating of 4/5.

*FTC Disclosure: I received this book from a friend.

Book Review- Starflight

I finished reading Starflight by Melissa Landers last night for an Around the World ARC Tour.

From Goodreads:

Life in the outer realm is a lawless, dirty, hard existence, and Solara Brooks is hungry for it. Just out of the orphanage, she needs a fresh start in a place where nobody cares about the engine grease beneath her fingernails or the felony tattoos across her knuckles. She's so desperate to reach the realm that she's willing to indenture herself to Doran Spaulding, the rich and popular quarterback who made her life miserable all through high school, in exchange for passage aboard the spaceliner Zenith.

When a twist of fate lands them instead on the Banshee, a vessel of dubious repute, Doran learns he's been framed on Earth for conspiracy. As he pursues a set of mysterious coordinates rumored to hold the key to clearing his name, he and Solara must get past their enmity to work together and evade those out for their arrest. Life on the Banshee may be tumultuous, but as Solara and Doran are forced to question everything they once believed about their world--and each other--the ship becomes home, and the eccentric crew family. But what Solara and Doran discover on the mysterious Planet X has the power to not only alter their lives, but the existence of everyone in the universe...

I was in need of a book that I could get absorbed in and just fly through.  Surprisingly, this book, which was a mix of distopian/sci-fi (maybe?), did just the trick.  I'm usually not a fan of that genre but I enjoyed this one.

Maybe because it was really character driven along with the all the action.  And we all know how much I love my character driven stories.  Each and every character, both main and secondary had their own backstory, which we learned about.  And I loved all of them for it.

I'm not sure how I feel about Solara and Doran.  It might be a spoiler, but come on, it's YA, you know they're going to end up together.  I just felt like on his end, it was kind of bam! sudden feelings.  I liked how you could see Solara's feelings grow over time.

This is the first book in the series and I'm eager for the next one to come out.

I gave this book a rating of 4/5.

Starflight will be released on February 2, 2016.

*FTC Disclosure: I was given this book for free for an honest review as part of the Around the World Tours.