A Thousand Heartbeats by Kiera Cass

 

“Love has a sound. It sounds like a thousand heartbeats happening at the same time.”

Princess Annika has lived a life of comfort—but no amount of luxuries can change the fact that her life isn’t her own to control. The king, once her loving father, has gone cold, and Annika will soon be forced into a loveless marriage for political gain.

Miles away, small comforts are few and far between for Lennox. He has devoted his life to the Dahrainian army, hoping to one day help them reclaim the throne that was stolen from them. For Lennox, the idea of love is merely a distraction—nothing will stand in the way of fighting for his people.

But when love, against all odds, finds them both, they are bound by its call. They can’t possibly be together—but the irresistible thrum of a thousand heartbeats won’t let them stay apart.

Kiera Cass brings her signature sparkling romance to this beautiful story of star-crossed lovers and long-held secrets.

 * Goodreads * Amazon * 

First, isn't the cover pretty?  I love it.

Second, I finished this book yesterday and I'm still thinking about it.  

I'm thinking about both Annika and Lennox and their personalities and history.  From every angle.  Because Annika is SO forgiving.  I looked at it from a mother's standpoint.  From a woman's standpoint.  From a daughter's standpoint.  Is it all believable?  My conclusion is that yes, with a bit of a stretch, yes.  There aren't many people who can forgive and offer kindness and mercy like Annika and her mother, but I do believe it can happen.  

The plot is so good.  I loved it all.  It had me invested all the way through.  Oh the buried secrets!!  Of course, after Annika and Lennox meet, things really pick up and intensify.  There is a lot going on.  I liked the mystery, the action, the thought behind all of the characters and their motives.  The ending was so exciting!  I'm guilty of reading way too fast.

The bottom line is that any book that still has me thinking about it well after I've finished it, deserves the credit for filling that brain space.  I had feelings and emotions regarding the characters and what was happening.  I was equally happy and sad when the story ended.  I loved that I got a whole story, all wrapped up at the end.  No cliffhangers.  This book is a stand alone and that made me happy.

This book releases on November 29th.

Content:  violence, peril, death.  Kissing.

- I received a complimentary copy of this book.  All opinions expressed are my own.

The Crown of Rosemund by Michele Ashman Bell

 

Anduron, 1498

The king and queen are dead, murdered by one who will stop at nothing to rule. But the young princess—Rosemund—has survived, spirited deep into the forest by her parents’ most trusted advisor. There, she finds refuge in a small cottage and a new life, one in which she must play a role that will ensure her survival. Soldiers are combing the countryside searching for the lost princess, and they will not rest until she is found—and eliminated.

Rosemund’s strength grows as she trains for battle and endures the hardships and dangers of peasant life. When chance brings Maxwell, a young man from the nearby village, into her life, Rose finds in him an ally and a friend. As her sixteenth birthday approaches, the time has come for Rose to reclaim her birthright, and in a court controlled by a vengeful new ruler, she must play a deadly game of politics in order to seize the throne that is rightfully hers.

 * Amazon * Goodreads * Deseret Book *

I really love the cover of this book and I have to say that this publisher is crushing it with novel covers overall.  They are so unique and connected to the story, just like this one is.  I'm a fan.

The Crown of Rosemund is a mixed bag for me.  I guess I was expecting something a bit more than I received.  The first half of the story is slow.  So slow and so repetitive.  It was a struggle sometimes to stay connected.  I didn't ever feel an emotional connection to any of the characters so the plot really had to be the primary motivator for me to read.  The second half of the story got better and picked up in pace a bit.

I really liked the transformation of Rosemund from insecure, sheltered princess to a strong, resilient young woman, ready to fight to be queen.  The last bit of the book was my favorite because it was where Rosemund really steps into her role as leader and queen.  She bands people together and takes her castle and her position back.  There are some good fighting scenes and it felt climactic for sure.

I'm not really sure of the target audience for this book.  After reading, I would say the younger set because of the age of Rosemund (about 16) and how the story progresses.  The romance isn't really a romance, just a friendship for most of the book.  Everything stays pretty surface and as an adult, I was really hoping for more.  So, maybe this book would be better suited for the younger YA crowd?  That would make more sense.

3/5 stars for this book.

Content:  peril, some violence and fighting.  One chaste kiss at the end.

- I received a complimentary copy of this book.  All opinions expressed are my own.

Dreamer (The Dream World Chronicles #1) by Camille Peters

 

Eden has a secret: she has the ability to see and enter others’ dreams, a most inconvenient power when one is an outcast living in a magic-phobic village and yearning to fit in. When she accidentally exposes her powers, Eden discovers that her uncanny abilities connect her to the Dream World, home to the magical beings responsible for creating dreams, and the first place Eden has felt she truly belongs.

Standing in her way is the formidable Dream Council, which questions whether she should remain in their world. Unless Eden can prove she’s truly a Dreamer, she’ll lose all her magical powers and be forced to return to Earth. Proving herself turns out to be more difficult than she anticipated. When Eden is assigned to create dreams for a newborn mortal, her opponent—the talented Nightmare Darius—makes it his personal mission to uncover her secrets, which could result in her permanent banishment.

Eden struggles not only to outwit her foe, but also to prevent herself from falling in love with him, all while finding herself entangled in mysterious events as the Nightmare Realm begins to eclipse the Dream Realm, threatening not just her chances of remaining in her new home, but the balance of the universe itself. As Eden fights to fit into this world of dreams and magic, she finds herself on a journey of self-discovery that will take her down a path that forces her to confront an unknown darkness within herself, leading her to realize she’s not who she initially believed, nor does she belong where she thinks she does.

 * Amazon * Goodreads *

Happy new release to this book and this author!

First, I have to shout out my love for the cover of this book.  It so perfectly represents what is inside and I think it is beautiful.  

I have to admit that fantasy books can be a bit hit or miss for me.  I thought the premise of this book sounded cool though so I wanted to try it out and I've read books by this author before and enjoyed them.  This book is a YA book, with a target age of 12-18.  That sounds about right.  The characters come across young.  Even the older ones.  So yeah, target range is spot on except this book is LONG.  Over 400 pages, which makes it not really great for most 12 year old's (and sometimes even adults like me!)  There was a LOT of description and the plot moves forward slowly.  If you love descriptive books, you will love this one.  

The author clearly put a lot of thought and effort into this idea.  It is creative and imaginative.  I liked many parts of it.  I didn't have a lot of emotional investment in the characters but the story concept and the cover?  Two thumbs up.

- I received a complimentary copy of this book.  All opinions expressed are my own.

Master of the Phantom Isle (Dragonwatch #3) by Brandon Mull

 

Cursed by the Key of Forgetting, Seth has lost all memory of his past—his relationships, his experiences, and who he really is. For now he will align with his new mentor, Ronodin, the dark unicorn, who takes him to the Phantom Isle, the secret gateway to the Under Realm. Though Seth is not formally a prisoner, Ronodin wants to use him and his shadow charmer powers for his own dark ends.

Kendra is frantic to find her missing brother, but the quest will take her and her companions, including Warren, Tanu, and Vanessa, far from Wyrmroost to Crescent Lagoon—a recently fallen dragon sanctuary made up of many islands and underwater domains. Its caretaker has regained a foothold on one of the islands. If Kendra and her friends can save that sanctuary, they might uncover the answers they need to rescue Seth.

With each sanctuary the dragons overthrow, Celebrant, the Dragon King, comes closer to the dawn of a new Age of Dragons. With the forces of darkness on the march, can Kendra and her allies gather enough power to win the epic dragon war?

 * Amazon * Goodreads * Deseret Book *

Dragonwatch, Master of the Phantom Isle doesn’t miss a beat, picking up right where the last book left off.  The dragons are still at it, seeking domination, and it’s hard to imagine a greater threat.  Though in this adventure a greater threat does reveals itself.  Can Kendra stand against this dark threat without the help of Seth?

For Seth, life is hard when dealing with memory loss and the choices one makes under those circumstances gets to the heart of the character.  It is fun exploring Seth’s character more in depth when past choices can no longer influence the present ones.  The true desires of Seth’s heart manifest themselves.

The book takes the reader to tropical places with beaches and palm trees but it’s certainly no vacation with peril everywhere ranging from plants that want to eat you, to the undead and a raging triclops.  Yet in the midst of all the trials Kendra is still willing to give her all for her brother.

From underwater adventures, to deep and dark places from your worst nightmares, this book provides another fun read from Brandon Mull.  There are even a few surprise twists! This is a great series and adds another prized addition to the Fablehaven / Dragonwatch series.  I look forward to reading the series again; Master of the Phantom Isle gets an A+.

This is a series you must read in order as each book builds on the previous book.

Content:  peril, mild violence

- I received a complimentary copy of this book.  All opinions expressed are my own.  

About the Author:

Brandon Mull is the #1 New York Times best-selling author of the Fablehaven, Beyonders, and Five Kingdoms series. A kinetic thinker, Brandon enjoys bouncy balls, squeezable stress toys, and popping bubble wrap. He lives in Utah in a happy little valley near the mouth of a canyon with his four children and a dog named Buffy the Vampire Slayer. Brandon loves meeting his readers and hearing about their experiences with his books.

www.brandonmull.com  Follow the author on Instagram @writerbrandon and Facebook @authorbrandonmull  

Springback (Ring of Time #1) by Jana Miller

 

Ever since discovering her ability to rewind time seven years ago, Chloe has been reaching—for a worthy use of her ability, for redemption from her past, and for the kind of validation she’ll never find as long as she has to keep this secret.

By the time she’s sixteen, Chloe has decided that rewinding is not a gift at all, but punishment for her part in the tragedy that has shaped her life for so many years. And when she discovers others who possess the same ability, she has no idea whether she can trust them--or the information they offer about her own history.

Secrets of the past combine with rivalries of the present to set off a series of painful events and impossible discoveries, and soon Chloe finds herself in a race to piece together a puzzle of ancient relics, family feuds, and strands of time as she seeks to defuse the threat to her family, her powers, and the fabric of time itself.

*Note: This is a standalone novel; while there will be a sequel, the story comes to an end with no cliffhanger.

 * Goodreads * Amazon * 

I think it's important as a reader, to step outside your usual genres and throw in something a little different.  It helps keep things fresh and balanced.  This book was definitely outside my usual genres and probably not something I would gravitate to on my own.  This is a YA book, on the younger side of YA and probably even fitting for a middle grade reader.  It is clean- no swearing, no sexual content.  There isn't even any type of romance at all. 

So, there were some things I really liked, some that were okay and some things I didn't like.  I really liked the "rewinding" idea.  Being able to go back in time to fix something or alter something.  I can think of many times I wish I could've had that power!  The author did a great job of creating a visual for me of how the characters were accomplishing that.  I also really liked that there were rules of sorts- parameters set within that ability.  Consequences even.  It made the idea seem more valid and possible because of those things. 

I was so interested in the first bit of the book.  It was new and fresh and I was wholly invested in Chloe and Jake meeting, rewinding, meeting, rewinding etc..  The middle part of the book got a bit slow.  There isn't a lot happening and the forward progression is, for lack of a better word, slow.  The last handful of chapters of the book pick up and things start happening faster which was good.  The story needed some climactic build up.  Most of it is at an even level.

I think the thing I had the hardest time with was the emotion.  When you don't have strong emotional connections happening, it's harder to invest your own emotions.  I didn't feel an emotional pull to any of the characters.  They were likable but nothing really drew me into them.  If you don't have strong characters with lots of emotion, you better have a gripping, fast moving plot to make up for it.  I didn't really get either of those things.  BUT, I think this book would be great in the hands of the younger crowd or for parents to read with their tweens.  It sparks the imagination and gives plenty of room for conversation about what you might "rewind" and why.

Content:  mild peril

- I picked this book up on KU

 

On Tour With Always (The Lost Princesses #0.5) & Evermore (The Lost Princesses #1) by Jody Hedlund + Win This Whole Series (ebook or paperback)!

 

Always

  (The Lost Princesses #0.5) By Jody Hedlund 

Christian YA Historical Romance 

Paperback & ebook, 136 Pages 

August 13th 2019 by Northern Lights Press

A fierce elite guard. A loyal lady in waiting. They must work together to save three princesses from certain death.

On the verge of dying after giving birth to twins, the queen of Mercia pleads with Lady Felicia to save her infant daughters. With the castle overrun by King Ethelwulf’s invading army, Lady Felicia vows to do whatever she can to take the newborn princesses and their three-year old sister to safety, even though it means sacrificing everything she holds dear, possibly her own life.

Gravely wounded in battle and knowing all is lost to his enemy, the king of Mercia tasks Lance, one of his fiercest elite guards, to protect his family along with keys to an ancient treasure. As Lance makes plans to sneak the princesses out of the capital city, he doesn’t need or want Lady Felicia’s help.

With the dark enemy in pursuit, Lance and Felicia must put aside their differences to outrun King Ethelwulf and prevent him from killing the princesses. In a desperate attempt to hide the young girls, Lance and Felicia agree to a marriage of convenience, a decision that will change their lives—and hearts—forever.

Goodreads│Amazon│Barnes & Noble│Book Depository  

Also FREE through KindleUnlimited

I've been anticipating this book and this new series by Jody Hedlund since I first heard about it!  I was so anxious to get started.  This novella really sets the stage for the following books.  It's an in-depth look into the series of unfortunate events leading up to the lost princesses.  Honestly, it was heartbreaking.  Two countries are at war, there is death and destruction everywhere.  King Ethelwulf is a brute and will stop at nothing to gain the victory, the throne and the treasure.  What he doesn't count on is the loyalty and devotion of two brave people who are willing to risk everything to see the future of their country preserved through the three young princesses.

Both Lady Felicia and Lance are fierce in their loyalty.  The vows they made to the queen and king are binding to them and come before all else.  I loved them both.  They fought hard, they committed and they stayed the course no matter what was against them.  How can you not love that?!   Honestly.

I loved the pacing of this book- fast and exciting.  There was hardly time to breathe!  I am so glad I got to immediately read the next book without waiting.  #EverTour

Content:  peril, some violence, kissing

 

Evermore  

(The Lost Princesses #1) By Jody Hedlund 

Christian YA Historical 

Paperback & ebook, 222 Pages 

August 27th 2019 by Northern Lights Press

An ancient key. A secret treasure. And a princess destined to use them both to fight evil and restore peace.

Raised by a noble family, Lady Adelaide has always known she’s an orphan. Little does she realize she’s one of the lost princesses and the true heir to Mercia’s throne…until a visitor arrives at her family estate, reveals her birthright as queen, and thrusts her into a quest for the throne whether she’s ready or not.

Unable to tolerate King Ethelwulf’s cruelty and lawlessness, Christopher Langley left Mercia years earlier, training a group of rebels in neighboring Norland. When he returns home after his mother’s death, he discovers that not only is Adelaide all grown up, but she’s also the rightful queen of Mercia.

When King Ethelwulf discovers Adelaide’s location, he’ll stop at nothing to capture her and the key she holds to the ancient treasure. Christopher is just as determined to protect Adelaide so she can lead the growing rebellion. When feelings ignite between the two old friends, forces threaten to destroy their love and rip them apart forever.

 Goodreads│Amazon│Barnes & Noble│Book Depository  

Also FREE through KindleUnlimited

Jody Hedlund has a gift for writing.  No doubt about it.  This Lost Princesses series falls right in my sweet spot for reading.  I am transported to the world she created with characters I can love and root for without even thinking about it.  I love it.

Lady Adelaide is exactly how I think a lady should be.  Smart, compassionate, strong and passionate.  She isn't afraid to stand up for what she believes is right but she does it in a smart and compassionate way, ensuring the loyalty and love of all those who feel the effects of those traits.  Lady Adelaide is everything you would envision a young queen to be. 

The pacing in this book is excellent.  I had heart pounding moments of running and fighting, heart warming moments of character development and connection, heart skipping moments of new love and attraction and even a couple heart breaking moments of loss.  My heart sure got a workout!  It was an awesome ride from beginning to end. But wait, it isn't over!  The next book will be coming out at the end of this month and I cannot wait!  What a fun series this is.  Oh, and don't even get me started on these gorgeous covers.  They are absolutely beautiful, right?  #EverTour

Content:  violence, peril, kissing


Other Books in the Series

 

Coming late September and October. Pre-order now!

About the Author

Jody Hedlund is a best-selling and award-winning author who loves fairy-tales and happily-ever-afters. She makes her home in Midland, MI with her husband and five teen-aged children. When she’s not writing another of her page-turning stories, you can usually find her sipping coffee, eating chocolate, and reading.

Website│Goodreads│Facebook│Twitter│Pinterest│Instagram│BookBub

Tour Schedule

 On Tour with Prism Book Tours

Tour Giveaway

One winner will receive the prequel and all three books in The Lost Princesses series (Always, Evermore, Foremost and Hereafter) in paperback or ebook (winner's choice, if winner is outside the US ebooks only) Ends September 25, 2019

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Don't Fall for Trouble (Rockford High #2) by Victorine E. Lieske

Jessica knew he was trouble. Too bad her heart didn't get the message.

Christian Black was the ultimate bad boy. He'd spent time in juvie. And Jessica's father was the deputy county attorney. He would freak if he knew she was spending time with him. Too bad she has no choice. Being paired up with him for a science project wasn't her idea.

But when he touches her the world spins and her heart melts. She's got it bad for the bad boy.

Christian likes Jessica, but can't allow himself to fall for her. He's leaving Rockford as soon as he can get his sister to a safe place. He's got plans, and they don't include falling in love.

 * Amazon * Goodreads *

Do you believe that opposites attract?  Christian and Jessica appear to be opposites in every way but cannot deny an interest and attraction especially as they start working together on a school project.  I loved how Jessica realizes there is more to Christian than she believes and begins to understand his motivations.  Christian is definitely misunderstood.  It made him the underdog all the way through and I love to root for a good underdog.  Apparently, so does Jessica who is an excellent supporter and defender of Christian once she comes to know him- despite her overprotective father!

This is a fun (and quick) young adult high school age romance.  Christian and Jessica are great characters and I enjoyed their story.  I kind of wish it would have lasted a bit longer!

Content:  some sneaking out, kissing, mention of physical abuse

Identity (Kingdom Chronicles #3) by Camille Peters

 

Anwen's uncanny resemblance to Princess Lavena has been a curse since the moment she entered her service, as the spoiled princess has frequently used it to her advantage by forcing Anwen to switch places with her. But Princess Lavena’s latest scheme is her worst—and most dangerous—yet: compelling Anwen to take the princess’s place in her marriage to her loathed fiancé, Prince Liam.

Bound by an enchanted contract not to reveal the charade, Anwen is forced to go through with the masquerade and endure a marriage to a man who despises the woman he believes her to be. As time goes on, Anwen struggles not only to maintain her identity, but to fight her deepening feelings as she begins to fall in love with her new husband, a man who not only isn't hers to keep, but who has no idea who she really is.

 * Goodreads * Amazon * 

First, I need to say how much I love this cover.  Not only is it beautiful but it represents perfectly what is found inside.   

This is the third book in the Kingdom Chronicles series and it is easily my favorite so far.  I loved how sweetly the friendship and romance developed between Anwen and Liam.  Because I just really loved both of these characters, it made it easy to become invested in their story and their happiness.  Anwen has to be the kindest person ever.  Her gentle personality was so refreshing.  And Liam?  He is fun, adventurous and so desperately wants to be accepted and loved.  Anwen is the perfect fit for him.  

This book (and this series) is the perfect fit for even the younger readers in the YA spectrum.  It has that spark of magic, romance and the perfect happily ever after.  I really enjoyed it!

- I picked up this book through Kindle Unlimited

 

One of the Girls (Friendzone Book 1) by Robin Daniels

Senior Nick Moody is the second string quarterback on Roosevelt High School’s championship football team. He’s crushed on Mia for years, but she doesn’t know he exists. It’s time to come off the bench and into the game. Nick refuses to graduate without getting the girl or the glory.

Mia Ashlock is the remarkably kind cheer captain. She’s a yes girl, and her penchant for people pleasing always leads to bad relationships. After being humiliated in a very public dumping, her teammates decide to break her bad habit with a ban on boyfriends.

When Nick sees a poster, advertising cheer tryouts, he has a crazy idea: quit football and become a cheerleader. It’s perfect! He can get close to Mia and steal the spotlight, using his true and hidden talent—gymnastics. Nick and Mia have instant chemistry, but it does him little good. If Mia’s zero dating rule weren’t bad enough, the team treats him less like boyfriend material and more like one of the girls. Breaching the friendzone will be much harder than he thought.

Content: This book contains kissing along with limited/mild swearing and minimal inuendo/crude humor. No explicit language or references to sex.

 * Amazon * Goodreads *

This is one of the more well rounded YA books I have read lately.  Yes, much of the book occurs at school or at school functions, but we get the characters in home and family life as well.  It provided a more realistic base for their motivations and desires.

These characters were so easy to like and so easy to root for.  I really fell in love with Nick- how could I not?  He is forging his own path through some pretty tough terrain.  He's pushing against social norms, standing up to his grandfather and putting everything into getting the girl of his dreams.  He is determined, resilient and patient.  Oh, and he is kind.  I am such a fan of kind boys.  💙

There is a slow burn romance here but I loved every minute of it.  I could picture all the moments of this book in my head like a movie. (and some were really funny!)  The story was engaging and I was really invested in everything from beginning to end.  This was such a cute book!  I can't wait for the next one.

Please note content information in the book blurb above given by the author.

This book is on KU if you have that!

Waiting for Fitz by Spencer Hyde

 

Addie loves nothing more than curling up on the couch with her dog, Duck, and watching The Great British Baking Show with her mom. It’s one of the few things that can help her relax when her OCD kicks into overdrive. She counts everything. All the time. She can’t stop. Rituals and rhythms. It’s exhausting.

When Fitz was diagnosed with schizophrenia, he named the voices in his head after famous country singers. The adolescent psychiatric ward at Seattle Regional Hospital isn’t exactly the ideal place to meet your soul mate, but when Addie meets Fitz, they immediately connect over their shared love of words, appreciate each other’s quick wit, and wish they could both make more sense of their lives.

Fitz is haunted by the voices in his head and often doesn't know what is real. But he feels if he can convince Addie to help him escape the psych ward and everything will be okay. If not, he risks falling into a downward spiral that may keep him in the hospital indefinitely.

Waiting for Fitz is a story about life and love, forgiveness and courage, and what’s necessary to let go and learning what is truly worth waiting for.

 * Amazon * Goodreads * 

I've been sitting here for so long trying to figure out what to say about this book.  I don't think I'm going to figure it out anytime soon because it was all such a mixed bag for me.  There were moments that I was into this story but mostly I felt like a complete outsider looking in.  I do not have first hand experience with either of the two mental illnesses that the main characters have so that was all a bit foreign to me.  I didn't feel that emotional connection to either of the characters because I just didn't "get" them.  They both like to engage in verbal word play which seemed a bit over the top at times.  I mean, who can think like that at all times and for so long?  I don't know. 

I did love Addie's easy acceptance of Fitz and all the kids around her.  In the beginning it's all about Addie's obsessive behaviors of washing and counting steps, heartbeats, etc. because she thought someone was going to die if she didn't. But, when she gets to the psychiatric ward, it's mostly just blinking and tapping mentioned.  It wasn't so much about her actual progress to less obsessive/compulsive behaviors as it was talking about "masks" and plays and Fitz.  I was definitely more interested in the story when Addie and Fitz left the hospital in order to accomplish something Fitz was determined to do.  

Mental illness in all it's forms is a tough subject to write about, I think.  It varies so much from person to person.  I appreciate the author, his personal struggles and how much of himself he wove into the pages of this book.  I am grateful for people willing to talk about the hard things in life.

This book was, overall, just okay for me.  2/5 stars

Before I read the book, I thought the cover was interesting.  Now that I've read the book, I think it's very cool because I understand it better. 

Content:  mental illness which might be a trigger for some people, mild violence, death mentioned

- I received a complimentary copy of this book.  All opinions expressed are my own.

 

Fate & Fortune, Kismet & Karma by Robin Daniels + $50 Giveaway!

Fate & Fortune

(Fate & Fortune #1)
By Robin Daniels

YA Contemporary Romance, Duology
ebook, 279 Pages

September 20th 2018

Bryce has liked Paige since they were little but has never had the guts to act on his feelings. Paige is devastated over being dumped by her long-time boyfriend and can’t seem to move on. They’re stuck in a rut, until fate decides to pull them out.

Both Paige and Bryce are talked into seeing a fortune teller at the annual Summer’s End Carnival. Neither of them buys into the mysticism, until the psychic’s predictions start coming true. Now, the most bizarre things are happening and there isn’t a clear explanation. Each of them must figure out if they’re the subject of an elaborate hoax or a bigger plan forged by destiny.

*This book is part one of two. Books should be read sequentially.

Goodreads│Amazon

Kismet & Karma

(Fate & Fortune #2)
By Robin Daniels

YA Contemporary Romance, Duology
ebook, 270 Pages

October 25th 2018

Bryce and Paige belong together, but they’ll never make it happen alone. When inspiration strikes in multiple ways, a friend decides it can’t be a coincidence; it’s a call to action. With a little luck, the help of fate, and the matchmaking plan of the century, Bryce and Paige just might get their happy ending.

You heard Paige and Bryce's version of the story in Fate & Fortune. Now join Eric, Amy, Cody, Kennedy and Genie to see how things really went down.

***This book completes the series. Book one can be read as a standalone, but book two cannot. Fate & Fortune should be read first.***

Goodreads│Amazon

 How cute are these books?!  SO cute.  And what a clever idea by the author!  I loved everything about this two part book series.  The characters were so well defined and individual.  Their personalities were strong and I felt like I knew each one of them.  The whole story played out just like a movie in my head.  I LOVE when that happens.

 The first book is about Paige and Bryce.  Bryce has been loving Paige since he was little and has never acted on it.  The book is told in the alternating views of Bryce and Paige so we get a very clear view of both of their feelings and ideas.  There are some crazy things happening to them and it all seems to stem from a fortune teller at the fair.  It was so fun to watch Bryce seize the moment and hold on for all he's worth.  He and Paige are great characters.

BUT THEN, book two is about all the friends/siblings as they provide the back story of what was happening behind the scenes of book one.  It's hilarious.  There is so much going on in this book!  It was all so fun and entertaining.

I'm so glad I didn't read the blurbs for these books.  I loved the surprise it brought me as it all unfolded.  

Content:  some mild innuendo, talk of sex and waiting in general terms, kissing

- I received complimentary copies of these books.  All opinions expressed are my own.

About the Author

The most important thing to know about me is that I'm basically a sixteen-year-old trapped in an adult's body. It's why I feel such a great connection to all of my characters and why I love to write romantic comedy. The kid in me just wants to be goofy. Besides being a writer; I'm a wife, mother of five, volleyball enthusiast and home decorating guru. My list of favorites includes: reading, Christmas, pedicures, dessert, steak, Arizona winters and most importantly, Diet Coke.

Website│Goodreads│Facebook│Twitter│Instagram│Amazon│Newsletter


On Tour with Prism Book Tours

Tour Schedule

November 5th:
Launch
Heidi Reads...
Mythical Books
November 6th:
Becky on Books
Rockin' Book Reviews
Christen Krumm, Writer
November 7th:
Among the Reads
Dani Reviews Things
November 8th:
Harlie's Books
Colorimetry
November 9th:
Singing Librarian Books
Getting Your Read On
November 12th:
Katie's Clean Book Collection
Wishful Endings
November 13th:
Sarah Jane Lamb
Seasons of Humility
November 14th:
Paulette's Papers
Andi's Young Adult Books
Andi's Book Reviews
November 15th:
Mel's Shelves
Kathryn Cooper Writes
Rainy Day Reviews
November 16th:
Teatime and Books
Ghoulish Life & Reviews
A Backwards Story
Remembrancy
November 17th:
Grand Finale

Tour Giveaway

1 winner will receive a $50 Amazon eGift Card

Open internationally

Ends November 21, 2018

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The Windfall App by Teresa Richards + Three Book Giveaway

Marina Berghman is a classical piano prodigy with parents who’ve had her life mapped out since she was in diapers. But their plan leaves no room for her secret love of alternative rock, or Sean, the edgy guitarist who recently moved to town.

When Marina buys a lottery ticket on her eighteenth birthday via the new Windfall app, she expects it to be nothing more than a rite of passage. But she wins—the grand prize of five thousand dollars a day, for life. Suddenly given the means to break free from a life she never felt in control of, she’s quick to cut her family ties and turn her back on everything she knows.

But her lottery win was no lucky break. Her prize comes with strings attached, and Marina soon finds herself at the center of someone else’s life or death game. When she discovers evidence linking her dad to the intrigue, she turns to Sean for help. But he’s harboring secrets of his own.

Now Marina must sort out who to trust and who’s pulling the strings, before her prize turns into a noose.

 * Goodreads * Amazon * 

What a cute book!  This story was really just easy, breezy fun to read.  I loved the quirky Marina, coming into her own and trying to figure life out.  She is talented and smart but definitely not used to making her own decisions.  Spreading her wings under such unusual and dynamic circumstances (winning the lottery!!) leads to a few big bumps in her road.    Yes, Marina makes some mistakes but I thought she handled herself fairly well all things considered.  Marina is kind and a bit fearless.  I think I loved that about her the most.

What would you do with $5000/day for the rest of your life?  It's crazy to think about, right? 

This book was a little bit teenage drama, a little bit romance and a little bit mystery.  It had moments where the sweetness of a new romance had me sighing happily and moments where my heart was speeding up because DANGER!  It was just a good balance of all the good stuff a young adult novel should be filled with.  It was fun and I really enjoyed reading it.

Content:  underage drinking (party), peril 

- I received a complimentary copy of this book.  All opinions expressed are my own.
 

July 27--Brookie Cowles 

July 27--Emmy Mom 

July 27--Evernight Teen

July 30--Blooming With Books 

July 31--Katie's Clean Book Collection

July 31--Writing Pearls 

August 1--My Book a Day  

August 1--Singing Librarian Books

August 1--Because I Said So

August 2--Getting Your Read On

August 3--By Robin King

August 4--Good Tales Reviews

August 6--Bewildering Stories

August 6--Alison McBain

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If the Summer Lasted Forever by Shari L. Tapscott

 

Every year when the weather gets warm, tourists flock to Gray Jay, the cutest little resort town in the Rocky Mountains. Seventeen-year-old local native Lacey has one rule: never fall for the summer boys. She’s been there, done that, regretted it for a solid year. No one is going to change her mind, not even tall, blond, and handsome Landon Tillman.

Landon’s not looking for a summer fling. Still nursing a broken heart months after his girlfriend dumped him, he’s content to travel the country with his family and create videos for their wildly popular internet travel channel.

When well-meaning family members try to push Lacey and Landon together, the duo decides to fake a romance so they can enjoy their summer in peace. After all, what could go wrong?

True, they’ll have to spend a lot of time together to make the relationship look believable. They might even have to share a kiss or two for the sake of credibility. And sure, it’s possible lines will blur and fake feelings might morph into something real…

But that’s just a chance they’re going to have to take.

 * Amazon * Goodreads * 

Oh to be young and in love.  This book captures perfectly that young love vibe, the uncertainty and vulnerability, the excitement.  It's YA romance at it's best.  So cute!

It was so easy to like both Lacey and Landon.  They are both nice people and had nice families.  I really felt like I was right there with them and could picture everything as it was happening.  I really loved the ending and the postcards leading up to the ending.  It was so sweet.

Content:  kissing

- I received a complimentary copy of this book.  All  opinions expressed are my own.

 

The Promposal (The Ugly Stepsister Series, #2) by Sariah Wilson

Now that life has finally given her everything she’s ever wanted, Mattie Lowe has one thing on her mind: Prom. Determined to throw the most epic prom ever, Mattie sets out to plan a memorable and magical event—one that would make the late John Hughes proud.

But when her gorgeous and perfect boyfriend, Jake Kingston hasn’t popped the most creative promposal of all time, Mattie starts to worry. Actually, Jake hasn’t asked her at all—he’s been distant and quiet. And Mattie isn’t about to go to her senior prom solo. Suddenly, it seems that everything is stacked against her and falling apart quickly. With rivals vowing to sabotage her event and her boyfriend’s odd behavior, Mattie’s convinced the night is headed toward ruin. Will the snarky, purple-haired manga artist lead her class to an unforgettable night of fun and frolic or will she go down in high school history as the worst president to run the school?

 * Amazon * Goodreads *

What a fun book!  This will take you right back those high school days- rival enemies out to destroy you, classes, boyfriends, prom, prom dresses- the whole shebang!  And if you are still in high school, you will relate to so much of this book.

It was awesome to have the carryover of characters from the first book in this series.  It pretty much picks up where the other left off.  So, because of that, I would recommend reading The Ugly Stepsister Strikes Back first.  You won't be sorry.

There was humor in this book and I found myself smiling a lot because Mattie is just funny.  I loved the relationship between Mattie and her sister, and of course, between Mattie and Jake too.  

The ending was so super sweet and I may have just swooned a little.  And not just because there was chocolate involved.  😁  I am a Sariah Wilson fan!  I read everything she writes because her books just resonate in my happy spot.  

Content:  kissing

- I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher via NetGalley at my request.  All opinions expressed are my own.

Love & Luck by Jenna Evans Welch

Addie is visiting Ireland for her aunt’s over-the-top destination wedding, and hoping she can stop thinking about the one horrible thing she did that left her miserable and heartbroken—and threatens her future. But her brother, Ian, isn’t about to let her forget, and his constant needling leads to arguments and even a fistfight between the two once inseparable siblings. Miserable, Addie can’t wait to visit her friend in Italy and leave her brother—and her problems—behind.

So when Addie discovers an unusual guidebook, Ireland for the Heartbroken, hidden in the dusty shelves of the hotel library, she’s able to finally escape her anxious mind and Ian’s criticism.

And then their travel plans change. Suddenly Addie finds herself on a whirlwind tour of the Emerald Isle, trapped in the world’s smallest vehicle with Ian and his admittedly cute, Irish-accented friend Rowan. As the trio journeys over breathtaking green hills, past countless castles, and through a number of fairy-tale forests, Addie hopes her guidebook will heal not only her broken heart, but also her shattered relationship with her brother.

That is if they don’t get completely lost along the way.

 * Amazon * Goodreads *

First of all, I love this cover.  So simple, so cute.

I was pretty excited to read this book because I read Love & Gelato and fell in love with it.  This one wasn't as good as Love & Gelato for me but I really did enjoy a lot of it.  This is a contemporary YA book, no romance really, just some family and friends working things out.  

Road trip anyone?  Through Ireland?  Yes, please.  But maybe with a touch less drama than Addie and Ian's.  Real life issues face both Addie and Ian who are the best of friends and the closest of siblings until secrets come out and feelings are hurt.  Then they are at war with each other.  Just like with any real relationships, there are bumps in the road and sometimes you have to work through the hard stuff to find the beauty on the other side.  

I loved the real and messy feel to Addie, Ian and Rowan's feelings.  They are young, trying to find their way and becoming stronger.  It was a satisfying journey.

I didn't love the travel book excerpts so much.  I liked the idea behind it- especially how it ended, but the "voice" was a touch over the top and had me rolling my eyes a bit.  Maybe this would appeal more to the younger crowd?  I just might be too old for it.  Ha.

Content:  mild swearing

- I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher.  All opinions expressed are my own.