I am totally in love with Samantha's series and this spin-off has the feels and heart of the original series. Although, I can say here style was more I am totally in love with Samantha's series and this spin-off has the feels and heart of the original series. Although, I can say here style was more intense in this book and I really enjoyed it because it went above the other books and created a unique atmosphere.
Walker and Sloane were predictable because you could feel their tension and chemistry from the other books, but their story really impacted me. I expected Walker to be that way, but Sloane surprised me. It is one of Samantha's patterns to go with powerful heroines, but seeing her this way, really impressed me and made me admire her. Single mom, the powerful lady that had to let go of her past and start over - everything in life was hard for her.
The 2 of them start their relationship in a casual way, but develop so strong feelings that you can really feel them from the page of your book. Walker is letting his walls down piece by piece and Sloane is letting somebody into her life and into her daughter's life, which is a very big deal.
Vs the other books, the story was well-paced and balanced. It had tension and it had thriller events throughout all of the story, not just only at the end. I liked this approach and considered it more suitable for my style because it broke a pattern that was getting predictable in the previous books. Now you had no idea what is going on and I like it a lot!!!!!
What can I say? The idea of a spin-off after 5 books in the same universe didn't seem like a good idea at the beginning, but it appears Samantha has ideas and a lot in store for her characters. All the stories are original and well handled and besides that, we get to see all the gang together again, which you will simply adore!!!
I recently read an interview with Penelope in which she told the readers that her writing and creative process are slow, but the result will be worthyI recently read an interview with Penelope in which she told the readers that her writing and creative process are slow, but the result will be worthy. Believe me, she was right:) I've read Corrupt last year and after that book I waited for her next one like air, wondering what will her new story be. Punk 57 is an amazing book with a strong message. I always focused on the book's message, even when the story is not very satisfying for me. But in this case, nothing went wrong, everything was flawless.
Misha and Ryen are our beloved heroes, 2 extremely opposite characters, that are both bad and good for each other. From the age of 11, they were penfriends. Their teachers paired them because they believed they have the same gender, due to the confusion of their names. Soon, they became best friends and continued to write letters to each other for 7 years. The odd element here is that they never talked on the phone or met in person, considering in this way that the magic will disappear and their friendship will be ruined. Until one night when everything will change. Intrigued yet? I really don't want to spoil anything because every detail that I provide will give you a lead on the story and it will be a shame to figure it out because of my enthusiasm for the book.
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There were 2 things that I loved about this book. One has to be the relationship between Misha and Ryen and the way it developed. I really liked the idea of them being penfriends, sharing secrets and intimate things that nobody knew about them. From sweet and loving, they developed not knowing into something much more than friends. They love each other but are not very aware of that from the beginning. When they are not good for each other, they are mean or say things they don't necessary feel and we have another side of their relationship that is not only sweet and butterflies. Misha is very tormented because of a certain lost he suffered and because of this, he is lost, without anybody to help him heal. Ryen is also lost. Lost in her never ending charade of being someone else just for the benefit of blending in and being accepted. I loved their interactions, the good and the bad ones. Both of them were intense, because they are 2 very passionate people when they love and hate someone. The fact that their love developed in this special way, firstly only by letters and after that physically, drawn me more to them and to the complexity of this story. We didn't have instant love, nope, we experienced a slow relationship based on feelings and connection, and after that the physical attraction was there to go full circle on their love story. The fact that they were 2 teenagers with real problems made me so aware of the second reason I loved this books.
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The awareness it raised to prevent kids from being bullied. Somewhere along this book I had the impression of reading "Bully" because it reminded me so much of Jared and Tate. In this book, aside of the constant push and pull that Misha and Ryen had, Penelope described a society were kids had to pretend in order to be accepted. Ryen did is daily, closing her eyes when certain things happen, or not making a stand against unfair things. The way some kids were treated because they were different or because some bullies thought they were different really took a toll on me and made me realize so many things, mostly because sometimes I acted the same. I had sometimes in which I wanted to act differently, or step up and tell exactly how I feel, but something kept me from doing it. Maybe the fear of being rejected, I don't know, but in this book you really open your eyes and realize how real everything is. So many kids are bullied in schools and because of this, a lot are left damaged in their trust and heart.
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I almost cried at certain paragraphs, because life is not fair to all of us and mostly because some consider them above others and things need to stop. I loved Penelope and this element she introduced firstly in Bully and now in Punk 57. If everyone will truly realize and do something about it, maybe there is a chance we will make a better world for all of us. A change can lie in different things, like in a message, a writing on the way, a word or an act. You just have to embrace your way of acting and send the message you want.
To conclude, Punk 57 is not only a love story, its a life lesson for so many of us, opening your eyes and making you aware of the reality that revolves around you. Maybe after reading this book, we will become better persons, or try to help other that may need it.
My relationship with this series has been so weird, I find it very hard to explain to you know that basically, I did not like the 3 books but loved thMy relationship with this series has been so weird, I find it very hard to explain to you know that basically, I did not like the 3 books but loved the 4th. It is odd, but this is my reality and I think Ana should have written one "Twisted Lies".
This book is the last installment of the series and it went down with a bang, because it was terrific, with suspense, dynamics, love, action, and drama. It had everything I needed and it became an addiction for me.
Stella is friends with Ava, Bridget, and Jules and this is her story. She is a fashion influencer, gorgeous, and extremely capable of taking over the world. Her beauty and kindness are her priciest possessions and I liked her from the beginning, even when reading the stories from other characters. She was truly kind, with a heart of gold and something, you think of her as naive, but you are wrong. She is just like that, with a caring heart and that energy is radiant, right through her.
We know Christian used to work with Rhys and that he is now a multimillionaire, having a huge security empire. He is rich and gorgeous and he reminded me a little of Alex because he is unfazed, but his presence is extremely intimidating. He is cold and calculated, but very well-built from the outside. The issue comes from the inside because Christian doesn't believe in love and was not raised in a loving way, for him to see this as a goal. Even so, he is obsessed with Stella and will do anything to maintain her near, harvesting that obsession.
The main plot of the book is fake dating. Why? In order to gain her dream contract, Stella will need to step up her game and gain some followers on her social media account. Having a boyfriend might be a solution, but she needs one with an impact. Coincidentally speaking, Christian also needs a beautiful figure to accompany him to his events, so the agreement was mutual. But, Stella will have no idea what is waiting for her and even though she had a strict rule - no falling in love, both will lose this game.
This book took such a toll on me and I love every minute of it. I loved Stella's kindness, and Christian's intensity and even if there were some aspects that I was not Ok with, the book easily made its' way into my Top 5 Romance of 2022.
I loved Christian and he definitely won me over with his obsession and love for Stella, and even if he is not 100% the good guy in the story, he is swoon-worthy material all the way. From this dialogue, to the way he treated Stella and ending to the manner he does business. He is not your average good guy - NO. He hides things and knows things, but that didn't stop me from falling for him.
I totally recommend this book and as a tip - if you don't like the "Twisted" books 1-3, you can directly skip to this one. You can thank me later. :D
I had a bizarre relationship with this series from the beginning. I've heard so much about it and couldn't resist, but along the way, I realized that I had a bizarre relationship with this series from the beginning. I've heard so much about it and couldn't resist, but along the way, I realized that it's a little overrated for what it offers. I was on a merry-go-round, with liking a book, then no, and then hmmmm, maybe this is not so bad after all. Overall, the series is not over the moon, but it did have its good points, which I will address.
"Twisted Hate" will be the last on my preference list. I still have not finalized the Top 4, but this book will gain the last spot. Not that I was not liking the trope, because "enemies to lovers" is intense and very nice to follow, but because of the way it made me feel as a woman.
But let's start from the beginning - Jules wants to become an attorney and she is doing everything possible to achieve her dream. She has done some ugly things in the past, but she managed to let it go and start fresh. She is happy with her friends and her dreams and complications are not on the menu. Josh Chen is Ava's brother, who we already met in the first book and he is also Alex's best friend. In this book we see Josh struggling with his doctor career but also with having his life back after the revelations from "Twisted Love". His relationship with Alex is not improving and he won't go see his father in jail. To conclude, he is a mess, and Jules is not helping, always there to irritate and annoy him to death.
Even though they have each other, Jules and Josh begin a sexual relationship born from attraction and frustration, despite believing they hate each other. When Jules's past comes to hunt her, a lot of secrets are revealed, and guess what? It turns out they are not enemies after all, that this plan of theirs ended up biting them in the ass and making them fall for each other.
What went wrong for me? It was the way Josh acted at the beginning with Jules, especially during intercourse. I know, I am not 100% romantic and I know that sex is not always about unicorns and love and butterflies and rainbows, but this was over the top for me. I did not enjoy their scenes together because they were more rougher than I imagined and I couldn't see the joy in this brutality. Believe me, I am not a prude, but the way Jules was treated lowered the point a lot. I have flexible limits, but this went beyond. Even if at the beginning Josh was different, my mind was already made up about their connection and chemistry. I think it's ok to be intense, but there is a fine line that crossed, can generate an unwanted effect....more
I’ve begun this book with more hopes than the first one, but it turned out to be actually more dull than it. Please, don’t hate me for this. I wanted I’ve begun this book with more hopes than the first one, but it turned out to be actually more dull than it. Please, don’t hate me for this. I wanted to give it 5 stars only because the hero is named Rhys, but apparently, the hero can’t always save the day. This book was more settled and calmer in action than Twisted Love, but it was kind of boring, but that slow burn killed me and my mood.
This story is about Bridget, one of Ava’s best friends. She is second in line to the throne of Eldorra, but her life is about to change. She always had that comfort that she will not rule, because her brother Nikolai was first in line. When life happens and all her plans are turned to dust, Bridget’s story will develop into something more. Her life will change and her priorities will be others because now, the people and Eldorra need to be put first.
Rhys is an ex-Navy SEAL / turned bodyguard and he will be assigned to protect Bridget. Rhys is very different from any other man Bridget has known – possessive, tattooed, dominant and because of this, they will have each other at first. Plus, Rhys doesn’t consider himself worthy of love or doesn’t have plans to because romantically involved with someone. Because of this, their romance will be a terrible sloooooooooooooooow burn, which will trigger a lot of things.
I liked the bodyguard affair trope and also the age gap. Those were very good highlights and they practically made me finish the book. The difference between Rhys and Bridget are extremely easy to spot, but they clicked together. It kind of reminded me of the “Royally” series by Emma Chase, because it was similar in plot. Rhys was very dominant and I was not his fan during the romantic scenes, because they were a little cringe. I think that I’ve read so many Romance books, that it will be very hard to have shocking surprises. Rhys was not one of them. He was nice, loves Bridget with intensity and dominance, but he was not wow.
Bridget on the other hand was persistent, mature and she developed well for the character. I actually liked her and I loved her transition from Princess to more. She really left her comfort zone and made some good and bad decisions, but at the end of the day, it marked her as a mature person, even at the age of 24.
The book was a little boring and I expected more of a bang, a surprise or something to happen bigger than my expectations. It did not and that was disappointing. Even though I loved the tropes, I wanted more action, more plot, and more schemes to happen. The couple was ok, even if I was not fine with their language during sex, it was not for me and I found it cringe while reading.
The second installment from the “Adair Family” series, “There with You” is a little lower in rating than the other books, but I will certainly explainThe second installment from the “Adair Family” series, “There with You” is a little lower in rating than the other books, but I will certainly explain myself in a few seconds.
I loved all the couples from the books, and still, love them, but Thane and Regan had something lacking, which made me a little hesitant in giving the maximum score. I love when a love story is out in the open and for everybody to see. When that love story is kept a secret, I cannot embrace 100% the idea and this gives me a “little dirty secret” vibe.
Thane Adair is Lachlan’s brother, a widower, and father of 2 – Lewis and Eilidh. When his wife dies, his whole world crumbled and his main responsibility was raising his children in a good environment. The whole family loves the kids and will do anything for them, but when Thane becomes overwhelmed by his job and father’s duties, he is desperately searching for a nanny.
Enter Regan Penhaligon, the 25-year-old beautiful girl who will take the whole family by storm. She is Robyn’s half-sister by mother and in the first book, she was portrayed as a little wild and reckless, not being there for Robyn when she needed her. Because of this, Robyn is upset with her but misses her at the same time. Things are very complicated between the 2 and when Regan will come to Scotland, a bomb will explode. With her history and what the Adair family knows about her, Regan will have to win their trust, but mainly to recover Robyn.
Because Thane is desperate to find a nanny, after a certain debate, he hires Regan for the job, entering their lives and winning their hearts. They soon because inseparable and in the meantime, she will get extremely close to Thane, developing a crush, which will be mutual. Thane and Regan will begin an affair, but unfortunately, this will be kept from the family and kids, because of the age gap and also because Regan will not stay permanently in Scotland.
However, their relationship is full of twists and turns, of extremely spicy episodes and the connection is something you can’t deny. The reason why I gave the book only 4 is that I wanted more from Thane, I wanted him to man up and admit sooner his love for Regan. I understood his motives, his fears, and his love for his kids, but I also think he was a coward and that Regan deserved more.
All things considered, I loved Regan and I loved her loyalty and her intensity and determination. I think that for her age, she was brilliant, and even if she made mistakes, she paid for them. Seeing a woman at 25 who is so devoted to 2 kids made my heart melt and I realized that Thane was so lucky, even if he was the last to realize it. I understood him, but I wanted him more aware of the situation and to take decisions more by heart than my mind.
The book also has intense moments and has the same vibe as the first one, so besides a beautiful story, the age gap, and all kinds of elements, your breath will be taken away on some occasions.
“Always You” is exactly the definition of this book – for Arrochar Adair, there has always been one person – Mac Galbraith. Their love story is the sl“Always You” is exactly the definition of this book – for Arrochar Adair, there has always been one person – Mac Galbraith. Their love story is the slow burn that kept on burning and burning throughout the first 2 books and now it truly exploded into something truly fantastic.
Of all 3 books, I think this one is my favorite. I will have to wait until Arran and Brodan to take my final decision, but Arro and Mac are strong on my list. Besides the age gap, which is a criterion, their story is the most dramatic, full of history and forbidden elements. 7 years of pent-up frustration, love, adoration, and mixed feeling are in this book and when you read about it, you realize the complexity of the story. When you come to think of it, it was extremely hard for both of the characters, and to be strong to admit your feelings and move on says something about your personality, but also the intensity of your love.
Arro has always been in love with Mac and even though she tried hard, he was giving her mixed signals, hot or cold. Arro is my favorite of the girls and I consider her extremely smart and kind, with so much love to give. Broken by her father’s death, Arro has tried to be strong but kept her feelings inside. This gesture hurt her more, because the more she suffered, the more her heart kept on being broken. Even if Mac was always there as a friend, it was not enough. She wanted more, wanted to tell the world about her feeling and to be loved back. This expectation broke me because it was very simple of her – she wanted to be loved by Mac and did some effort in this aspect.
Mac had his demons to take care of, including fixing his relationship with his daughter, Robyn. Aside from that, Mac was also in love with Arro but feared not being good for her. Wrong – I think that Mac is the best thing that ever happened to Arro and they truly deserve their HEA.
Why do I love this book? Besides the slow burn and the eagerness to see what happens next, I enjoyed the flashbacks, as being the first book to introduce them so frequently. They were also in the first 2, but not quite like here. Furthermore, the action and the drama had other levels here, it was more fast-paced and when you think things are over, they are not. Plus, the intimacy and the emotions because this particular love story was amazing and it melt my heart.
So, read it please and enjoy Mac and Arro as I did. Arran will arrive next weeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeek!!!!
When I was very little, I used to watch a lot of soup operas and love them. Growing up, I began to feel very aware of what I am sMy rating: 4/5 stars
When I was very little, I used to watch a lot of soup operas and love them. Growing up, I began to feel very aware of what I am seeing, but because of the addiction of having love-drama-HEA in the same package, I continued watching. It might have been be the biggest mistake of my life, because now, when I read something like this, I turn to mush.
I've been in a bad RS for some weeks now and I saw a series recommendation from a very nice bookstagrammer - Aida (@Unicornulciteste)- and her enthusiasm for the stories sold it to me right away. I got the whole series and decided to give it a try! I hate RS and it annoys me dearly to stay away from books when I don't want that.
"The Stopover" is the story of Emily and Jameson, 2 completely different people who experience an intense one night stand while having a stopover because of a winter blizzard. They meet each other during the flight at first class and they instantly hit it off. Jameson doesn't use his real name and Emily has no idea who he is (BIG surprise here). After their passionate night, Jameson doesn't ask for Emily's phone number and they part ways.
After 1 year, Emily finds out who Jameson really is and realizes that she is actually working for his company. He is the CEO of one of the biggest media company in the world and LOL - Emily had the most intense night of her life with a billionaire.
When all the fog is cleared, Emily and Jameson begin a very unusual and intense relationship, which will test readers patience, intelligence and most of all, allegiance. The 2 of them come from very distinct worlds and because of that sparks will fly in every aspect of their lives.
Emily is dearly independent, but extremely passionate and has a temper. Those tantrums and fights with Jameson proved to be very funny, not in dialogues but in context. The author placed the characters in such funny conditions that I couldn't believe what I was reading about, but enjoyed it at maximum. She is very loyal, devoted and stubborn, trades which will be very useful for the plot. I considered her a strong heroine, having to put up with a lot from Jameson, and not all the time she received only good things.
I gave the story 4 stars because of Jameson. Even if I love an alpha/caveman/possessive type of character, I cannot be ok with the way he treated Emily when problems occurred. I understood his history, his upbringing, but this lack of empathy and respect for her was not OK for me. Even if yes, he has a very sensitive, noble and altruistic side (which btw was brought to light also by Emily), no - this attitude was a NO for me.
Anyways... besides that, I can say that he was ok-ish, but having all the time that in mind, it was difficult to fall in love with him completely. I think I liked his brothers more, mainly Tristan and I am looking forward to the second book to read his story. Elliot for now is a spoiled brat, but I know things will progress with him also. Even if it's not rated yet, I expect a book about Chris as well.
So, as a conclusion, I recommend this book if you want an addictive story to pull you up from misery and RS. It is catchy, spicy, with a lot of good love scenes. It has SOOOOO much drama ( remember soap opera above), but it makes you keep on reading and keeps you connected to the story. The characters and far from perfect, they can be quite infuriating, but the funny side of the plot is delicious and it made me giggle a lot of times like a school girl.
There are books which you read at the perfect time, because otherwise you would have hate them. In my case, I read a lot of Penelope Ward, Vi Keeland There are books which you read at the perfect time, because otherwise you would have hate them. In my case, I read a lot of Penelope Ward, Vi Keeland or the 2 of them together, so in 90% of the cases I know what to expect, because I feel like I know them. When I started “Well Played” I didn’t even read the blurb, because I wanted to dive in blindfold and see how it goes. It was actually a good idea, one that I think I will adapt for other books as well.
“Well Played” was a 5 stars read for me, an addictive love story with various real life aspects which you may face. Presley is a single mon, raising her 7 year old, Alex, the best she possibly can. With a cheating dad, Alex is a very smart and witty boy, with an eye for sports, just like his father. But her story is not with her former lover, but with his brother, Levi. Yap, very complicated this strings were, because in real life, a story like this would cause havoc. When Presley and Levi end up under the same roof of their old family inn, first a war will start – Presley wants to reshape the inn and start a business in this area, but Levi just wants to sell and get on with his amazing sport career. BUT, things will change dramatically when Presley and Levi will begin to connect, Levi will get closer and closer to his nephew and they will begin thinking of perspective and maybe a future together. The only problem is Levi’s brother, Tanner, who will surely be MORE than upset about their relationship, especially because they have a history or rivalry. And when Tanner will want Presley back, all Hell will break loose.
So, that kind of wraps up the non spoiler summary, but I had to introduce you to the storyline. When talking about the characters, I can tell you that I wasn’t a fan of both characters, but in a way, I understood them and wanted for them to make it work. I admired Presley for raising Alex on her own and for trying her best to provide Alex and be a good mom to him. But she was confused and that was the thing I didn’t understand, because she is an adult and she could have certainly fight for the love with Levi. AND Levi was the same – Goood, you are an adult, you love her, so be a man and fight for what you think it’s good for you. I understood the situation, but considering Tanner’s history and what he made Presley go through, he should have make that decision with Presley, not for her.
But despite that, I fell for this drama, for their wrong decisions and for what they went through. I liked the tension, the stolen kisses and moments and I was convinced Levi will get his head from his ass and understand what he want to do. Yes, family is important, but it was not their fault and if in real life this happens, I really think that persons should fight for one another. I wanted them to be different, yes, but I think that because of those faults, I liked them and I was very emphatic and rooted for them to make the best decision.
It was really addictive, the love scenes were amazing and very well written and the drama, even if on some occasions was a little unnecessary, I loved it!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I put it on the top of books this duo has ever released and I will certainly recommend it for Romance lovers.
“Kingdom of Flesh and Fire” was very well built up and the structure of the book was solid, with Poppy and Casteel in first row and making this show p“Kingdom of Flesh and Fire” was very well built up and the structure of the book was solid, with Poppy and Casteel in first row and making this show possible. I was shocked by some news which happened in book 1 but after putting all the pieces together with Poppy, I understood the reasons behind all his plan and even if the betrayal hurt me as well, in war everything is possible and when you do it to protect somebody you love, things are more clear after the first blow was delivered.
After learning everything about the Ascended and about her true role in this story, Poppy will be left confused and lost in a world she doesn’t (yet) find her place. Her relationship with Hawke/Casteel is not precisely the way it started and all this drama in her life doesn’t help either. She will start to learn things which will confuse her and even if the truth is hard, she wants to know the real world and her place in it. Letting behind the fact that she wants to stab everybody, Poppy is taking things ok, all considered. After 18 years of lies and deceits, she needs someone who won’t tell her what do to, not force her and moreover, won’t hurt her. Casteel will be that person, but he will need like 600 pages to show Poppy the truth and to unravel all the information she wants to know in order to gain her trust. Believe me, she has a lot of questions!!! She will learn to cope with her abilities and it will be very interesting to see how Poppy accepts this part and will manage to control it.
I won’t make this review long, because even if the book was kind of long, the plot was not that complicated and it lingered more on Poppy and Casteel development than showing us a complex story. The character development went well, because from seeing Casteel as an enemy, you go back to basics and see him like Hawke again, in love with him with all of your heart. Actually, loving a semi bad person is quite fun, because you discover that you actually like his behavior, his determination, fighting spirit and his dirty innuendos. But, leaving all aside, Casteel will do anything in his power to protect Poppy, not because he needs her in his plan, but because he needs her in his life. ...more
For the first time in a while I have mixed feelings after reading a book. When I feel like I need a relaxing book, I always look for a light plot, to For the first time in a while I have mixed feelings after reading a book. When I feel like I need a relaxing book, I always look for a light plot, to keep me away from things that are not ok for me. Mia Sheridan is always my “shelter author”, because her stories are full of love, compassion and joy, making me believe in a world were love can conquer basically everything. “Once we were starlight” looked like a relaxing book, but it was NOT. I think that up to date, it is one of the most complex and risky from her “repertoire” because you can see how she wanted to raise awareness and involve us in a love story we could follow, but react in the same time because of the happenings. This is a life lesson with capital letters, strictly because of the plot, but even if it’s painful to even imagine being in a scenario like that, the love story of this book was fantastic and I have no words do describe it. Only Mia could break your heart and put it together again like this.
A bed posed on a stage under a dazzling spotlight. An audience of hungry eyes. And him, the other half of my soul, our supple bodies moving as one . . . Sundara: the lush and forbidden oasis in the desert where men travel to watch acts of sexual deviancy, and the only existence seventeen-year-old Karys has ever known. But despite a life where secrets and sin are in high supply, and freedom remains far beyond their reach, Karys and her partner Zakai find safety in each other, their passionate love the light that helps them both survive the darkness.
Karys and Zakai have been living in Sundara all their lives, surrounded by what they called as family, but also curios eyes who attend their show. Being part of this community is no strange to them, but considering their age, everything is wrong an twisted. Minors, brought here without any recollection of their past, the 2 of them were merely entertainers from a full chain or organization which has only one scope: human sex trafficking. But, in this horrible place, Karys and Zakai have each other, and even if many consider they are too young to fall in love, their hearts belong to one another irrevocably. You can say that a trauma brought them together, but wrong – life brought them together and in a way, sheltered them from other who wanted more than they could offer.
Karys was the soft one, the dreamer and the girl who thought love can heal everything. Being a child when brought to Sundara, this was her home and Zakai the other half of her star. Even if we are not witness of their falling in love, we find them stronger than ever, in a place so wrong for their pure hearts. Her thirst for knowledge and her loyalty towards Zakai were impressive and I loved reading things from her POV, because her pure and naïve mind was breaking my heart too. The way she expressed about simple things, objects, extremely familiar to us, but foreign to her, was shattering and that innocence is worth reading and hoping that something good will come for her. Zakai on the other hand, being more mature and more direct in approach, is more aware of his surroundings and tries to find a way to match reality with lies. His love for Karys is as strong as hers and his devotion is limitless, from my POV amazing for a boy that young. Mature, but in the same time innocent, the 2 of them are victims of evil and wicked, of people who exploit them emotionally but also physically in order to gain money.
There are a lot of topics which Mia inserted in the book, beside a wonderful love story. Her connections are always strong and you can always feel the love radiating from the characters, but putting them into this environment changed too much the scenario, leaving the reader without breath. She challenges us to imagine such a plot, to think and live alongside the characters and maybe see what we would do in their spot. The changing of scenario was very confusing for Karys and Zakai and she put an accent on PTSD and the effects it could have on children taken from a world they always knew and brought all of a sudden in an unknown one. We should also focus on the one who rise, make a carrier or find purpose in something which once, made them suffer. The focus on taking a certain path and making mistakes is highly pointed out and I felt so sorry for Karys and Zakai because of their choices and what lead to them. Of course, you would have to read the book, but concentrate more on the moral part of the story.
After that, of course, we are talking about the aspect that started it all, human sex trafficking, which had an effect on all aspects of our characters life and love story. I think that even if Mia brought this subject in the story, she wanted her readers to understand the gravity and importance of making a difference, even if writing a review about the book and outlining the plot with this subject. For example, it made me open Google and search, and what I read devastated me. I will let you a link here, only 1 of the various sources I found. The aspects which shocked me most?
Estimates suggest that, internationally, only about .04% survivors of human trafficking cases are identified, meaning that the vast majority of cases of human trafficking go undetected.
Human trafficking earns global profits of roughly $150 billion a year for traffickers, $99 billion of which comes from commercial sexual exploitation.
So, as you can see, Mia gave Karys and Zakai story a twist, considering the majority of the victims don’t have such luck. I really admired her courage and I think this is what a book should teach you to do. You have a brilliant love story but you also have a message, a strong and documented one which deserves all the focus and chance in the world because it is out there for everybody to read and to talk about. Sundara is not a fantasy place, it is not the Night Court or The Institute in NY, is something real, where real people get hurt and suffer. I would like to say to Mia that her message managed to be loud and clear and please do not feel afraid or discouraged because of this topic, it has hit its mark in a very impressive way and I think that all of her readers will say the same. ...more
I missed so much reviewing one of Sarah’s book, and “A Court of Silver Flames” was out, I found myself in the position of actually having it on my kinI missed so much reviewing one of Sarah’s book, and “A Court of Silver Flames” was out, I found myself in the position of actually having it on my kindle for me to enjoy. It was an excitement like no other and in less than 5 days I finished the story, reading like crazy with every chance I’ve got. When I began the first chapters it really hit me how much I’ve missed all this universe, the characters (Rhys!!!!!!!!!!!), the plot and everything revolving around it. I’ve read “A Court of Frost and Starlight” as the last installment, but let’s be serious, it was just an appetizer, something to keep you breathing until the real deal comes out.
I was never a fan of Nesta, although I like Cassian very much and he intrigued me a lot, wanting to see how his story develops and to get to know him more, at a personal level. My attention was solely on Rhys in the first trilogy, but now, having these 2 as main characters, your focus changes and you pay more attention to them and to all the details. After reading the book, I really think I was right about Nesta, that her exterior was exactly what she managed to sent through, but after certain events and lots of love, people can change if they have the right incentive.
I consider that Nesta was never something different from what she portrait to be, she was straight forward, sometimes cruel, but that was her upbringing and considering everything that happened, she couldn’t turn up in other way. Her association to the Fae world and the change within her was the starting point, but it was a vicious ride, full of false appearances and glimpses of the real her. When Feyre is more than tired about her sister behavior and irrational spending on account of the Night Court, she sends Nesta to train with Cassian at the House of Wind. Of course Nesta was not OK with the decision and made Cassian’s life a living hell, because she was not a warrior, she didn’t fully embrace the Fae life and that was not her focus. She was still traumatized by the war, by her fathers dead and their transformation, so the path she embraced was to just be numb and not feel anything. She fully took upon herself to make everybody hate her, including Cassian and her sisters, as punishment for what she believes she did. This will be the starting point of the story, a story which finds Nesta on full display, showing us how she managed her emotions, her relationship with Feyre and Elain, her love life with Cassian, but most of all, the powers she took from the Cauldron which was burning inside her and more than gladly wanted to rise and destroy. This will be the trigger to the story which finds Nesta in full bloom, using her powers to stop another war from happening.
Nesta and Cassian were very different from Feyre and Rhys. The first pair is mostly driven at the beginning by an atomic chemistry and sexual tension, while the second had chemistry, but not that explosive. There were more lured in by an invisible connection, which bonded them and never let go. Both of them are super, mega, awesome, but I remain faithful to my fist love. ...more
I am a huge Cosway fan. I adored the “Hearts” series and it was the first to make me fell in love with her. Even now I remember my huge crush on OliveI am a huge Cosway fan. I adored the “Hearts” series and it was the first to make me fell in love with her. Even now I remember my huge crush on Oliver and Jay. ...more
Some time ago I’ve read “Vicious” and I was a little intrigued by the writing style and the hero. I am used to OK guys, not perfect because perfectionSome time ago I’ve read “Vicious” and I was a little intrigued by the writing style and the hero. I am used to OK guys, not perfect because perfection is good in books but not in real life and this aspect makes you a little disorientated in your real choices. So, I liked them to be from this world, not out of it. But L.J. Shen likes to make a change and deliver broken heroes, anti heroes that you hate, but in the same time love. It’s very complicated to explain, because the characters are so flawed and so wrong for you, but you can’t stop reading. It’s intriguing and addictive and I think I am going to be reading some more of her work, because I love it and love the twist.
“Scandalous” was exactly as the title suggests – scandalous. ...more
I’ve been reading Samantha Young for 6-7 years, if my memory is not failing me.. I am very familiar with her style, with her stories and I always loveI’ve been reading Samantha Young for 6-7 years, if my memory is not failing me.. I am very familiar with her style, with her stories and I always loved the message she manages to pass on. Family is the most important element she uses and throughout her books she inspires us to do the same and love each and every member of our family. Friendship is also valuable for her and this warm feeling is growing deep inside every reader, because the message is loud and clear, you can’t miss it. ...more
After reading like 100 books from this duo, you believe that you know what to expect. WRONG!!! I really don’t know how they do it, but this book actuaAfter reading like 100 books from this duo, you believe that you know what to expect. WRONG!!! I really don’t know how they do it, but this book actually worked in spiking my interest. It was a nice surprise for me and I’m sorry I left it behind a few months ago. Maybe I wasn’t in the mood, but at this moment, the story dropped perfectly.
Hollis and Elodie meet during a car accident in a parking lot and from that day on, they will never be the same again. Elodie will discover that her bumpy relationship with Hollis might turn into something else once she discovers the real him. Elodie will become the nanny for his niece and when living under the same roof, things could get complicated, especially when the past is right behind the corner.
Hollis was a very intriguing character, the perfect grumpy cat for Elodie, but he had his reasons. His mother died of cancer and the love of his life left him for someone else, which might end up in trauma. From day moment on, Hollis sheltered himself from love and even if his attraction for Elodie was palpable, he did a lot to keep her away. Not mixing business with pleasure was his rule, until it went through the window.
I loved Elodie and loved her freestyle and attitude. She is smart, funny, beautiful, and cared a lot for Hollis's niece, Hailey. They were the perfect team and together with Hollis, they could actually become more. I liked the way Elodie was up front, and funny and that she truly embarked sincerely on this love affair.
What was particularly impressive for me was the drama element inserted here. You know, all love stories have a turning point, some of them are cool, some are vague and nonexistent, just there to drag the story further. In this case, the drama element was WOW and it left me with my mouth open because I was not expecting it. Of course, I can’t say anything about it because I will spoil the story, but prepare yourself, it will be major. I think that this element made me rank the book 4 stars because without it, the general story would have been flat and due to the off-the-charts chemistry of the characters, it would have received 3 stars.
I think it was a very nice good, keeps you in the action, the slow burn and the combustion of attraction is something work seeing and following. The couple is very different and you can see it, but love it. It definitely deserves a good ranking and I recommend it to all Romance lovers.
I think I have a tradition with Penelope’s books. When they come out, I leave aside everything that I’m currently reading and start hers, because I knI think I have a tradition with Penelope’s books. When they come out, I leave aside everything that I’m currently reading and start hers, because I know it’s going to be epic. This story, in particular, was a hit for me from the cover release because of the gorgeous cover and I was dying to get my hands on it. Btw, I think I will also purchase the paperback because this story hit my emotions hard ...more
After a long chase, I know now that my favorite De Vincent is Devlin. Even if it took me a while and even if I said previously that I have a crush on After a long chase, I know now that my favorite De Vincent is Devlin. Even if it took me a while and even if I said previously that I have a crush on Gave, Devlin is the most complex character and discovering him is as exciting as reading this book and plot.
He is far from perfect, a little broken, but reading about what made him the man he is today tore me apart. It was very emotional and I loved his interaction with Rosie and everything they managed to build. Yes, he is a jerk, but I couldn't help falling for him and loving this other side of him, the sweet and tender one. Rosie was also awesome with her big mouth and personality, the perfect match for this De Vincent.
The best book from this series, no doubt about it :) ...more
I will try to write a review for the whole series, because it is simple this way. I've read all the series back to back and hardly breathing, so it woI will try to write a review for the whole series, because it is simple this way. I've read all the series back to back and hardly breathing, so it would be hard for me to tell you what happened in book 1, 2 and 3... :) So, here goes nothing.
Well, I can't believe I will say it, but I really, truly, liked Zayne. Some time ago, after finishing "The Dark Elements" series, Zayne was NO for me. I didn't like the way he acted towards Layla, even though I understood he was heart broken. I don't know, maybe I was into Roth more and couldn't see the secondary characters better, but now, after leaving some space between the series, I could actually visualize the males individually, each for their pros and cons. BUT, I will return to Zayne in some minutes, first, the plot. :)
Trinity is half human, half angel, a Trueborn or Nephilim (but she doesn't like that word). She was raised to go against her nature and not use her most powerful weapon - her grace. Being the last of her kind, nobody has to know she is out there, or the demons will come to finish the job. Her mother died protecting her, so she is a very powerful person, which in the wrong hands might lead to destruction. She was raised between Wardens, and because of her nature, she has to have a Protector, bonded to her in the most powerful way. That guy would be Misha.
By the way, in this series, there will be so many Supernatural influences, that any fan will be star struck. I strongly believe the name Misha is after Misha Collins, the actor who plays Castiel in the series. Sorry for the detour. So, Trinity needs protection, needs to stay safe and not use her grace. BUT, when things happen in a bad way, she will meet Zayne, and they will instantly get along. There will be a flash connection between them, something very hard to explain or to put into words. Beginning with attraction and ending in understanding, comfort but also fury, Zayne and Trinity will have no choice but to stay together. At first, they needed to, afterwards, they wanted to. :) Even if they infuriate each other or fight a lot, Zayne and Layla will be very strong as a couple, a whole in this dramatic world full of evil. Their love will be the key of keeping everyone safe.
Trinity was such a big character, so impulsive and funny, it actually reminded me of Alex from "The Covenant" series. She learnt all her life to hide her impulses, go against her nature and just try to blend in, that when the time comes, she will struggle to make things right. She can see ghosts, has an eye condition which is really affecting her vision and has super fighting skills. She was trained her whole life in case demons or other supernatural beings come for her, and she was really good at it. I liked Trinity, because she is fierce and strong and always wants to keep it together. She was her problems and past issues with her father, but she won't let that define her. I loved her relationship with Zayne, the way she wanted him, but also resisted much at a certain point. I really didn't liked her in the second book, because she over analyzed the situation, thinking it all over and driving me crazy. She will tend to underestimated her intelligence and abilities, but she is strong and with so much courage, that I don't know how she does it. She knows she is important, but has no idea just how much.
Zayne was a pleasant surprise. I really liked him and all this story Jennifer crafter for him. From Warden to Protector and to sooo much more than that, Zayne had a major role in this plot, united with Trinity in a very intensive way. He is not shy anymore, he is a very confident and funny guy, good to the core. Even if after his father passing, he didn't want to lead the DC Clan, Zayne has leader abilities like no other. He is faithful and full of courage, happily dying for Trinity if he was to. Maybe I don't remember 100% The Dark Elements series, but I think Zayne and Trinity were more intense than Roth and Layla, having this angelic connection that couldn't be explained. After all that happened, Zayne managed to be the leading hero I think everyone was looking towards to seeing.
Speaking of Roth and Layla, they will be a huge part of the books, and I loved every minute of it. I missed Roth's ironic style and Layla's tenderness. Roth and Zayne's relationship will evolve and we could actually see the way the interact and form a kind of friendship/ bromance, but totally leaving aside what they shared in the first series. Zayne will realize so much about demons and his role as a Warden, and because of that, it was impossible for him to return and act as he used to. The relationship between Zayne and Layla will be interesting and you will love the outcome.
We will also see Bambi (!!), Cayman and lots of witches, demons and angel. Our characters will fight to keep the Harbinger for fulfilling his wishes of global destruction and they will stop at nothing to prevent it. Death will not always seem like it, powers will be amplified and plots will take your breath away. I died a little inside at the end of each chapter, because the way they were structured made you want to read another one, and another one, until there is nothing left to read about. It was intense, dramatic, funny, unpredictable, sad and I loved every minute of it. I've read it fast, because I wanted to capture it as a whole and I think Jennifer did a wonderful job, as always. ...more
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