Book Review: Defy - LJ Shen

Defy is the second book of LJ Shen that I’ve read. A prequel to Vicious. If you haven’t read it yet, you can check my review here.  I was excited to read the prequel of the said book since I did enjoyed reading Vicious and Shen’s writing.

Defy is a lot shorter and fast-paced than Vicious. And since I read Vicious first, I kind of know where they’d end up in. I’m actually cool with that. I love witnessing how something will play out even if I know what the out come will be.

I loved how Jamie was portrayed in the story. A lot of “awwwww” moments. He may be just a boy, but at least he acts more like a man. He knows exactly what to say at the right time. On the other hand, Melody is just plain for me. Nothing really special about her. She seems to be a bit bland to me. Not really my type of heroine. Aside from her looks, I didn’t really see what’s attractive of her. there were things that actually happened to her that may have been hard to overcome, but I didn’t quite actually feel her “presence”.

The story was fun to read, but it could’ve been better. Although I had many “aww moment” with Jamie, I kind of feel that something is missing in the plot. Apart from one scene that actually showed them getting to know each other, I didn’t quite feel their “feelings” building up. One moment they were nothing more than prey and predator, the next they were madly in love with each other. But I liked what Jamie did for Melody. Something a book boyfriend would’ve done.

Overall I’d give this book a 4 out of 5 stars. I would’ve enjoyed it more if it detailed their love story more. Maybe I just wanted more of Jaime.

Book Review: A Thousand Letters - Staci Hart

A Thousand Letters is the first Staci Hart that I received. The title and blurb is promising and made me expect some heart-wrenching love story. But neither prepared me on the book itself.

I know the story doesn’t really revolve around it, or at least I’m assuming that it is not the way the author is focusing on. But the father story is what actually strikes me more, maybe because it hits a nerve. I felt more heart broken with Rick’s story than the all the rest. Although the character build up was good. I can’t decide if I like Wade. He is created as realistic as it can get. Not the typical boyfriend you get to meet in your books. Something like a breath of fresh air from all the other book boyfriend we always dream about, which is also the same reason why I can’t love him enough. Maybe I like the way book boyfriends are created in way that we get a glimpse of happy ever after. Something that will give us a glimpse and hope that there is someone out there. Although he did redeem himself a bit in the end but generally, he’s just okay. He’s not so bad, but not enough for me to list him under my book boyfriend. On the other hand, I love the way Elliot was written. I can actually relate to her, being a little bit of a pushover myself. She gave me hope that I can do better. So I was able to connect to her and understood her perfectly. I just wish I could be just as strong as her.

The story in its entirety is just okay for me. The only thing that made my heart break so much was the father. And part of that is because I’m just a sucker for family stories as it is. Although the story didn’t really focus much on that, I guess I just missed the parts that actually reach out to me as a romance novel. I didn’t quite connect to their story. Part of it was because I do not agree with the choices they make and the situation they got themselves into. And part of it was because I feel something missing on their story. It was not built in a way that would make me root for them.

Overall, I’d still give this 4 out of 5 stars just because I love Rick so much. But I’d give it a 3 for romance, because it doesn’t really strike to me as a romance story

Release Day Blitz: A Thousand Letters - Staci Hart

"Lyrical, heartbreaking, and emotionally intense, A THOUSAND LETTERS is a beautiful portrait of an undying love that deserves a second chance."

— Melanie Harlow, USA Today Bestselling Author

A Thousand Letters, an all-new emotional standalone by Staci Hart is LIVE!!!

Sometimes your life is split by a single decision.
I’ve spent every day of the last seven years regretting mine: he left, and I didn’t follow. A thousand letters went unanswered, my words like petals in the wind, spinning away into nothing, taking me with them.
But now he’s back.
I barely recognize the man he’s become, but I can still see a glimmer of the boy who asked me to be his forever, the boy I walked away from when I was young and afraid.
Maybe if he’d come home under better circumstances, he could speak to me without anger in his voice. Maybe if I’d said yes all those years ago, he’d look at me without the weight of rejection in his eyes. Maybe if things were different, we would have had a chance.
One regretted decision sent him away. One painful journey bought him back to me. I only wish I could keep him.
*A contemporary romance inspired by Jane Austen’s Persuasion*

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About the Author

Staci has been a lot of things up to this point in her life -- a graphic designer, an entrepreneur, a seamstress, a clothing and handbag designer, a waitress. Can't forget that. She's also been a mom, with three little girls who are sure to grow up to break a number of hearts. She's been a wife, though she's certainly not the cleanest, or the best cook. She's also super, duper fun at a party, especially if she's been drinking whiskey.

From roots in Houston to a seven year stint in Southern California, Staci and her family ended up settling somewhere in between and equally north, in Denver. They are new enough that snow is still magical. When she's not writing, she's reading, sleeping, gaming, or designing graphics.

Connect with the Author:

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Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/stacihartnovels
Twitter: https://twitter.com/imaquirkybird
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Website: http://stacihartnovels.com
Newsletter: http://stacihartnovels.com/get-the-newsletter/


Review

A Thousand Letters is the first Staci Hart that I received. The title and blurb is promising and made me expect some heart-wrenching love story. But neither prepared me on the book itself.

I know the story doesn’t really revolve around it, or at least I’m assuming that it is not the way the author is focusing on. But the father story is what actually strikes me more, maybe because it hits a nerve. I felt more heart broken with Rick’s story than the all the rest. Although the character build up was good. I can’t decide if I like Wade. He is created as realistic as it can get. Not the typical boyfriend you get to meet in your books. Something like a breath of fresh air from all the other book boyfriend we always dream about, which is also the same reason why I can’t love him enough. Maybe I like the way book boyfriends are created in way that we get a glimpse of happy ever after. Something that will give us a glimpse and hope that there is someone out there. Although he did redeem himself a bit in the end but generally, he’s just okay. He’s not so bad, but not enough for me to list him under my book boyfriend. On the other hand, I love the way Elliot was written. I can actually relate to her, being a little bit of a pushover myself. She gave me hope that I can do better. So I was able to connect to her and understood her perfectly. I just wish I could be just as strong as her.

The story in its entirety is just okay for me. The only thing that made my heart break so much was the father. And part of that is because I’m just a sucker for family stories as it is. Although the story didn’t really focus much on that, I guess I just missed the parts that actually reach out to me as a romance novel. I didn’t quite connect to their story. Part of it was because I do not agree with the choices they make and the situation they got themselves into. And part of it was because I feel something missing on their story. It was not built in a way that would make me root for them.

Overall, I’d still give this 4 out of 5 stars just because I love Rick so much. But I’d give it a 3 for romance, because it doesn’t really strike to me as a romance story.

Cover Reveal: Lines Drawn - Ker Dukey

Lines Drawn (Drawn to you Book 2)

 By Author Ker Dukey

 Release Date: March 27, 2017 

Synopsis 

One phone call. 

One secret.

One moment changed us all. 

Everything is different now and learning to survive all over again comes with a price. 

Deception, heartbreak, and sorrow implode the relationships that were once strong. 

The lines are drawn, who will cross it?

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Meet Ker Dukey 

I have always had a passion for storytelling, whether it be through lyrics or bedtime stories with my sisters. I wanted to be an actress growing up so I could live many roles but I learned early on that my mind was too active… I would want to change the script.I would watch films and think of ways they could have improved the story if they took another direction so I thought it best that I tell my own.

My mum would always have a book in her hand when I was young and passed on her love for reading, inspiring me to venture into writing my own. I tend to have a darker edge to my writing. Not all love stories are made of light, some are created in darkness but are just as powerful and worth telling.

When I’m not lost in the world of characters I love spending time with my family. I’m a mum and that comes first in my life but when I do get down time I love attending music concerts or reading events with my younger sister.

You can find me on Facebook where I love interacting with my readers.

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Cover Reveal: Defy - LJ Shen

Title: Defy
Series: Sinners of Saints #0.5
Author: L.J Shen
Genre: Contemporary Romance

Release Date: February 3, 2017

My name is Melody Greene, and I have a confession to make.

I slept with my student, a senior in high school.

Multiple times.

I had multiple orgasms.

In multiple positions.

I slept with my student and I enjoyed it.

I slept with my student and I’d do it all over again if I could turn back time.

My name is Melody Greene, and I got kicked out of my position as a teacher and did my walk of shame a la Cersei Lannister from the principal’s office, minutes after said principal threatened to call the cops on me.

My name is Melody Greene, and I did something bad because it made me feel good.

Here is why it was totally worth it.

Defy is a smutty, insta-love, insta-lust short novella. Defy is a prequel to Vicious (Sinners of Saint #1). It is recommended, but unnecessary, to read Defy before reading Vicious.

L.J. Shen resides in sunny California with her husband, son, chubby cat and wild, wild dreams.

Her passion is to write badass stories, sushi, UFC and her awesome family and friends (not in this order, though. Obviously, sushi comes before writing. Oh, and also the family part.)

She spend the first half of her twenties traveling the world and is now paying all the fun with extra shifts in front of her MacBook. Feel free to contact her on her Facebook page. She loves to hear from her readers.

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Book Review: Text 2 Lovers - K Webster and JD Hollyfield

Review

K Webster did it again. This is only the fourth book of hers that I read, and I am amazed at how she got me hooked. While this is the first book of J.D. Hollyfield that I read, I would say that I’m impressed. Their combination is a blast to admire.

I’ve been in a book slump lately and been reading only ARCs that are due for review. And I am so glad that this is one of them. Although this book has not lifted me out of that slump, it definitely has been one of the very few books that had me hooked. I wasn’t able to put the book down. I had to forego sleep yet again. I missed those moments where I’m feeling sleep deprived because I was up way after bedtime just to read a good book.

Although the plot was hilarious, amusing and on the lighter side, it still gave me that gutted feeling that I am always aiming for in a story. The plot was very well written that it brings me to a whole new different world. And I loved that each author wrote each of the POV. And yes, I am proud of myself to actually guess who wrote who. *insert smug grin* The story was fiction enough to enjoy but also realistic enough that it could really happen in real life. I almost considered texting some random number just to see if I will be able to find my Ramsey. Almost. I love that it was fast paced but still had all the details necessary for you to enjoy a good plot.

The characters are also created in such a way that you could actually relate to them. I sometimes see myself as a Dani and could relate how hard it is to actually say No. it was actually the one of the main reason why I love her so much. There was some fierce “inner goddess” in her that is ignited only by the right person and is solely for that person’s enjoyment. Ram, although not as alpha, still knows how to take care of what is his.

This is my first five star read of 2017. I think I have already explained well enough why I gave that rating right? So far, I have yet to read a K Webster book that I didn’t like. And yes, this is a good introduction for JD Hollyfield for me.

Teaser

Release Day Blitz: Text 2 Lovers - K Webster and JD Hollyfield

Text 2 Lovers

by K. Webster & J.D. Hollyfield Publication Date: January 24, 2017 Genres: Adult, Contemporary, Romantic Comedy

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It’s the start of nothing good. I fired off a storm of raunchy text messages…to the wrong number. And he replied. Him: Show me a picture. Him: Tell me your name. Why does the lure of anonymity have me craving to indulge a stranger? It’s the start of everything right. I received a slew of text messages…when everything in my life was wrong. And she made me laugh again. Her: You’re probably a creeper. Her: Possibly a stalker. Why do I have the overwhelming need to find this stranger who saved me and make her mine? Him: Take a chance with me. Her: This is crazy. Him: I need to see you. Her: What are we doing? Him: We’re about to find out. Her: PHOTO ATTACHED Him: PHOTO ATTACHED

About K. Webster

K Webster is the author of dozens romance books in many different genres including contemporary romance, historical romance, paranormal romance, and erotic romance. When not spending time with her husband of twelve years and two adorable children, she’s active on social media connecting with her readers. Her other passions besides writing include reading and graphic design. K can always be found in front of her computer chasing her next idea and taking action. She looks forward to the day when she will see one of her titles on the big screen. You can easily find K Webster on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Pinterest, and Goodreads! Website: www.authorkwebster.com Newsletter: http://eepurl.com/bllgoP

Website | Blog | Twitter | Facebook | Goodreads

About J.D. Hollyfield

J.D. Hollyfield is a creative designer and first-time author. When she’s not cooking, event planning, or playing around with her husband, son and three doxies, she’s relaxing with her nose in a book. With her love for romance, and her head full of book boyfriends, she was inspired to test her creative abilities and bring her own story to life. Life in a Rut, Love not Included is her first novel. Hollyfield lives in the Midwest, and is currently at work on her next book.

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Book Review: Vicious - LJ Shen

Read 10-15 January 2017




Synopsis:

Emilia

They say love and hate are the same feelings experienced under different circumstances, and it’s true.
The man who comes to me in my dreams also haunts me in my nightmares.
He is a brilliant lawyer.
A skilled criminal.
A beautiful liar.
A bully and a savior, a monster and a lover.
Ten years ago, he made me run away from the small town where we lived. Now, he came for me in New York, and he isn’t leaving until he takes me with him.

Vicious

She is a starving artist.
Pretty and evasive like cherry blossom.
Ten years ago, she barged into my life unannounced and turned everything upside down.
She paid the price.
Emilia LeBlanc is completely off-limits, my best friend’s ex-girlfriend. The woman who knows my darkest secret, and the daughter of the cheap Help we hired to take care of our estate.
That should deter me from chasing her, but it doesn’t.
So she hates me. Big fucking deal.
She better get used to me.

Published 27 December 2016


Review

This is the first book I’ve read in 2017 and from the author. And although i may still be in a slump, i was able to enjoy the book.

I almost DNF this one, as i find it a bit draggy in the first few parts. I felt like i was missing on action and interactions with the main characters that i like. But since I’m not one to give up, which I’m happy that i didn't, i was still able to finish it in five long days. I know I’ve been slacking lately.

I loved that the hero is an Alpha. Who doesn’t like Alphas in a book? Very dominating and strong. Nothing to crack him. And like all other Alpha male, there is something hidden on the strong exterior that they portray, which is kind of the norm. I also liked that after everything and every revelation, the hero remained true to its character and didn't do a total 180. I just didn't like that despite the effort to be sassy and fierce; i didn't quite feel that the heroine was standing her ground against the alpha. Maybe because of her status or her personality, but it's something i can actually let slip. I just wished she was written with more fight in her.

Although the story started a bit draggy for me, at the end of the book, everything was resolved. No questions on what happened to this or that. Everything was actually explained and laid down. It’s refreshing to read a story that the climax and conflicts were actually fixed. That all those opened twists had their own closures.

I would give this a 4 out of 5 stars. This could've been a five if i was able to highlight more striking lines and if it was able to feel more emotions than my heart could handle. But it was a worthy read nonetheless.

Release Day Blitz: A Flaw So Beautiful - Alora Kate

Title: A Flaw so Beautiful
Author: Alora Kate
Genre: Contemporary New Adult

Buy Links:

Amazon US: https://goo.gl/EHJm32
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Add to your TBR: https://goo.gl/Zi4HSf

Synopsis

Lincoln: Catching sight of my neighbor’s ass in the hallway the day I moved in more than piqued my interest. It's not just the body that has my attention. She's mysterious, hiding behind sunglasses that cover most of her face. I ask her name and try to get her to talk on the rare occasions I see her in the hallway, but every time she ignores me and turns away. I need to know more about this woman, I can't get her out of my head. Do I keep trying? Do I keep asking her name?

Ashton: I’m barely holding on. I’m always on the edge, even after all these years. I live every day the same and I can’t change who I am no matter how much I try. My new neighbor won't give up asking my name and trying to make conversation with me. If he knew me he wouldn't keep trying. I'm a lost cause.



Excerpt:

I sucked in a breath. “Are you trying to kill me?”

“A little dramatic don’t you think, Ashton.” She stood up and smoothed out her clothes.

Suzanne was tall, skinny, and blonde and sometimes she wore glasses. Other than that, I don’t pay attention to people or the unique details they all have. They all blend into categories, and I can’t see past that. They are short or tall, fat or skinny, and the only other thing I notice is usually their hair color. And I guess glasses. Sometimes those stick out to me.

My world is boring.

Bland.

Dull and lifeless.        

Sometimes the beating of my heart is the only thing that reminds me that I'm alive.

“I’m scared, Suzanne.”

I’m always so fucking scared.

“Anxiety can do that to you.”












About The Author:

Alora Kate is a multi-genre author who likes to be bold and original; stepping outside of the box and bringing her readers fresh characters from all parts of life. She’s a mother, college student, photographer, and graphic designer. She resides in northern MN with her son, where she plans to stay for a long time despite the cold winters.

Visit her website here: Join her mailing list here: [https://goo.gl/KJTtxe

Connect on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/authoralorakate/

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