Samstag, 20. Dezember 2014

Love Bites - Rachel K. Burke

Title: Love Bites
Author: Rachel K. Burke
Rating: 3/5

Thanks to NetGalley and HarperCollins UK, HarperImpulse for letting me receive a digital copy before the official release.
What do you do when you fall in love with your best friend’s boyfriend?

That is the question that twenty-six year-old Justine Sterling has been asking herself ever since the day she met David Whitman, her best friend Renee’s boyfriend. Justine is determined to ignore her growing feelings for the irresistibly charming David, until one night, when she finds herself in the bed of the one person she should stay away from.

When Justine and David’s affair ends in heartbreak, Justine is forced to repair the damaged friendship with her best friend. In doing so, she learns that right and wrong decisions aren’t always black and white, and sometimes you have to follow your heart to see where it leads.
Alright. This is kind of hard, because this book was nothing like I thought it would be. I'm not sure if that's good or bad yet, let's weight out the options.

I liked the main conflict of this novel - a girl being in love with her best friend's boyfriend. It's so clichee and tons of books like that exist already, I know, but I never get tired of reading about those. At least I don't if they're well-written and that was the case with Love Bites. The writing was great.

The reason why I may be confused about my thoughts on this book is that it was described as New Adult, and I think the author isn't a New Adult author. She's an adult author. This is a book for adults. It contains jobs and fashion and pregnancy and adult friendships and, and, and... I can't help but being reminded of Sex and The City, which I never liked, and novels by Paige Toon, who is an author I love very, very much.

I also liked the different characters. All of them had their own voice. You could always tell them apart because none of them acted and spoke the same way. That doesn't mean I could relate to all of them. For example, I liked Renee and Dylan's relationship, but I just wasn't interested in reading anything about those two. But I was really excited to read about Justine's past, and David, and then the other guy that stepped into her life (you'll know who I mean once you decide to give this book a chance).

As mentioned, I started this book with different expectations. Different isn't always bad, yeah, of course. That's not what I am saying. However, different is hard for me to deal with. I'm still unsure what to think of this book, because it had its good points, but then there were parts, job interviews for example, that I just wanted to skip because it was too adult-like and I hoped for a New Adult book. I'm complaining too much, I'm sorry.

I still think this book captured the emotion of a bad breakup perfectly as well as the part when you try to deal with the circumstances afterwards. And I think this is what makes the book special in a way, too, because I think there aren't many novels out there that really deal with situations.

Donnerstag, 30. Oktober 2014

I Need You (Starting Out #03) - Jane Lark

Title: I Need You (Starting Out #03)
Author: Jane Lark
Rating: 3/5

Thanks to NetGallery and HarperCollins UK, HarperImpulse for letting me receive a digital copy before the official release.
Guilt can eat away at you, but love can cut like a knife...

Wanting his best friend's girlfriend is a cliché Billy knows well - it's the tightrope he's walked for years. But now Jason and Lindy have broken up and Billy can't help but be there for the girl he's loved from afar for so long. She's hurting.

Fighting to find a road to the future, Lindy's heart hurts. She's trying to escape the truth, but Billy keeps making her face it - and it's ugly. How can she keep living when everything is made of glass and it keeps shattering?

Her one constant is Billy. Only, rebound isn't his style and when Lindy starts to see him in a different light, he just can't trust her. He's no one's second best.
Billy and Lindy. Lindy and Billy. Hmm.. I first thought I was pulled into a novel taking place in the 80's.

I Need You is a great example for how wrong my first impressions of a book can be. I didn't like Lindy - at all. The idea behind the story didn't turn out the way I hoped. I basically thought to myself: "Just read this book already and write this dumb review, so you can start a better book."

The only good thing was Billy. Why? Oh, only because he was the male protagonist and let's face it - they are the best things about books in general, especially when they're swoon-worthy and that's the case, most of the time.

Lindy was a mental wreck and heartless and... Weird. Her boyfriend Jason dumped her a few months earlier for another girl, who also already had a baby once the story started to tell Lindy's and Billy's point of view. She's still not over Jason, constantly crying and even trying to kill herself.

And then there comes Billy. Awesome and adorable Billy. I got it bad, yeah, haha. He'd always love Lindy, even when before she started dating his best friend Jason. Yes, that typical 'friend falls for the best friend's girlfriend'. But this is better. And I don't even know why. The places, the talks, everything started being really good after the first few pages. Good thing I didn't stop and decided to drop it.

Billy seemed to be the only person trying to help Lindy while all the others already gave up on her, just like she gave up on herself too. I mean, how can you not love a character like that?! Simply impossible.

At some point, believe it or not, I wasn't even annoyed by Lindy anymore. Not as much as before anyway. I felt sorry for her and understood her actions a little better.

I didn't like Nial and his crew that much. I guess that was because he stood in Billy's way and I didn't want anyone to ruin his chances. Were Nial and his crew really that imporant? Did they have to be included in this book? I don't think so, but whatever... I'll accept it. No other choice for me, is there?

So, after a while I enjoyed this book and understood the story and the idea behind it. I found myself liking it more and more. The thing is, I won't read the others in the series. I am so sorry Jane Lark, but I just don't want to. I hated Jason and I hated Rachel. Not because they made Lindy act the way she did, but they just seemed so false, so fake. Maybe they were intended to be good persons, but I still didn't like them. There's no way I want to find out about their awkward story.

I Need You is a book I had to get used to. It wasn't what I expected, and though I first thought that might be a bad thing, it turned out to be not so bad anymore. Three solid stars, mainly because of Jason and Rachel, and perhaps Lindy because she thought about Jason waaaay to much.

Sideswiped (Off The Map #02) - Lia Riley

Title: Sideswiped (Off The Map #02)
Author: Lia Riley
Rating: 3.5/5

Thanks to NetGallery and Forever (Grand Central Publishing) for letting me receive a digital copy before the official release.
Love is uncharted territory...

Sometimes in order to find yourself, you need to venture off the map.

Talia and Bran broke all the rules and navigated dark and stormy emotional waters to be together and now that they finally seem to have found their way back to each other, the winds of change threaten to blow their love off course yet again...
Lia Riley kidnapped us. Well, not really, but she made us dive into the story of Talia and Bran again. I really liked the first book in this series, Upside Down (review can be found on my blog, too), and I was relieved when I received an ARC of Sideswiped as well.

Unfortunately, I wasn't able to read it before the official publication date, which I am so sorry for. But I read it now, and so let's start with the actual review...

While the first book focused on the basics of a relationship, such as first meeting, first (wrong) impressions and all that stuff, Sideswiped felt more mature to me. To me, it felt like getting to know Bran better and see things from his point of view. A relationship is great as long as you block out the problems, and that's what both characters had to face in this story.

They had a long-distance relationship for a short while and then Talia came back to Bran, but she wasn't allowed to stay with him forever. Her visa lasted for a limited time. In the beginning, only Talia seems worried about what will happen to them and their relationship after that time, but then you get to see how Bran thinks about it, and it may seem to be such a small problem, but it leads to bigger problems and worries and struggles and doubts and, and, and... I think the author captured that perfectly.

It's not all smiling teddy bears and beautiful colored butterflies anymore. It's real life.

Real life also means Talia's former mental situation is still a recent subject. Though I think it got worse comparing Sideswiped to Upside Down. We all knew she wasn't well in the first book, but now... I don't even know how to put it...

If you think it's all about their relationship only, yes of course it focuses on that, but I like hearing the characters talking and thinking about what they want to do with their lives too. All this "rescue the oceans" stuff is impressive, and I secretly wonder if Lia Riley is an expert or if she had to do some serious hard research in order to get all these informations.

At first, I was worried I wouldn't like this book. And yeah, I liked Upside Down better, because who doesn't like the idea of a happily ever after and forever sunny sunshine?! However, it's a very good sequel.

Also, I was surprised by how much I liked Bran's friend/mate/whatever Karma. Talia was so annoyed by him, and maybe that's part of the reason why I liked him. Will he get his own story? Please tell me he will get his own story!

As already mentioned, Lia Riley captured the emotions in this book great. And if you worry her jokes might be missing - they aren't. Her funny way of talking about things is still involved, so there are still lots of parts to laugh about.

If you liked the first book in the series, I suggest you read this one too. I can't add that much more (probably also because I am not that creative). Just read it and see for yourself.

New Point - Olivia Luck

Title: New Point
Author: Olivia Luck
Rating: 3/5

Thanks to NetGallery and Olivia Luck for letting me receive a digital copy before the official release.
Imagine the worst day of your life. Immerse yourself in the details. How did you feel? Who were you with? What were the consequences?

Recalling my darkest day is as simple as typing a few search terms into a web browser. It only took thirty minutes for me to become the center of a media frenzy that caught the attention of an entire country.

So I hid.

Nine months later and I'm getting better. Moved two hours from home, landed my dream job, and met a delicious new guy.

Healing is that simple, right?

Wrong.
New Point focuses on a subject that surprisingly isn't included in a lot of novels. I'd have guessed that guns and shootings in school hook more authors that want to write about that. Honestly, I don't like reading about it (good thing New Point is the second book I read with that topic), because I don't like to think of such terrible things to happen, though they happen way too often, especially in the USA. But let's not talk about the laws there and such things. Let's talk about the book.

I'll admit, knowing the main characters has mental issues, gives me a hard time reading a book. I envy all authors for being able to create such characters. I don't know why I don't like to read about characters like that, but sometimes it's hard for me to keep up with their thoughts. Or maybe it's my wish to help them, put my hands on their shoulders and shake them and scream at the book.

The second Zoe moves to New Point she meets Miles (not right the second she moves, but you know what I mean). You don't get to understand why she moves, you just know it's not because of regular reasons. Miles is her hot neighbour who gets to share his point of view from time to time. I've been looking forward to that all the time. He and Zoe are bounded by a special connection right from the start. Their chemistry doesn't grow, it's constantly there, even when Miles behaves like an ass. Can I say that? It's already said, so whatever.

The only other book I read about a shooting at a school was from a student's point of view. New Point is from Zoe's point of view. She wasn't a student when that guy stepped into elementary school and threatened to kill someone, she worked at the school's libary.

Once I got to the story point where Zoe reflected what happened that day, I realized what a strong character Olivia Luck had invented. Before that, I thought of Zoe as... Not exactly weak, but not that confident either. And when... Argh, I can't write about that. I'd spoil too much and I can't have that.

There's one thing I have to write about critically though. I hope it doesn't give away too many spoilers. It seems too much of a coincidence to tell the kids what they should do in case of an emergency and within and hour, they have to recall what Zoe told them. I think she should have told them sooner, but maybe it's just me...

Olivia Luck is a really talented author. I saw that by the way she thought of small details and ideas she came up with, like Zoe's and Miles' sister's relationship.

By now, I'm not sure if I'll read the sequel. The sequel is about Zoe's brother and his love affair or however you want to put it. The idea of their story doesn't make me want to read it as soon as possible. I'll probably put it on my list and see whether I'm in the mood to read it or not.

Samstag, 20. September 2014

Stupid Girl - Cindy Miles

Title: Stupid Girl
Author: Cindy Miles
Rating: 4.5/5

Thanks to TKA Distribution and NetGallery for letting me receive a digital copy of this book.

After her senior year of high school leaves behind nothing but heartache, Olivia Beaumont is sure of this: She’s no stupid girl. She sets out for Winston College, promising herself that she will remain focused on her first and only love – astronomy. But all it takes is cocky sophomore Brax Jenkins and an accidental collision with a football, to throw her entire year off course.

A quick-tempered Southie who escaped the inner city streets of Boston to pitch for Winston, Brax is known to play way more fields than just the baseball diamond. So, when his name is drawn to take part in his fraternity’s hazing dare, Brax eagerly accepts the mission to take Olivia’s virginity. But he doesn’t plan on falling hard for the sweet and sassy Texas girl who sees right through his bad-boy persona.

As Olivia and Brax battle their feelings for each other, echoes of the past year begin to surface. A boy who once turned Olivia’s whole world upside down reappears, and “harmless” pranks wreak havoc. Pretty soon the aspiring astronomer is on the verge of revealing her most difficult, heartbreaking secret. All the while, Brax must wrestle with the irrevocable dare, and Olivia struggles against all logic as she does the one thing only a stupid girl would do: fall in love.
It took me ages to write a review. Now, I think it's time to get one done. Finally... And I don't know what to say.

If I say I loved this book and it is one of my favorite reads this year, that's a bit too short, right? Hmm... Well, then let me tell you I am not lying by saying these two things. I really loved this book - it was more than I expected and totally my taste. And yes, it also was one of my favorite reads this year.

Let's start... The prologue. Holy hell. It gave me goose bumps and not the good kind. The book starts like a movie, pulling you into the story at the first page. If you decide to read this book, make sure you have enough time planned, because you won't be able to put it down. You just won't.

I totally fell in love with Olivia's family at page one. So, I really hope Cindy Miles decides to write novels about each one of them. If not, I'll just keep on hoping... Even for a novella. I don't care as long as I get to read more. Because Cindy Miles can write. Wow.

Brax is a fabulous name and you can't not fall for him. He's what female readers are looking for in a book boyfriend. Don't pretend otherwise. We all know the truth.

I loved to read Brax and Olivia's story. Their relationship, their ups and down, everything made perfect sense. Everything was perfect. Simple as that. It rarely happens that I find a book and love it the way it is. Normally, there are one or two things I would want to change. Good thing Stupid Girl is different. I wanna own a physical copy and frame it - it was that beautiful.

So, if you want to read it (and I strongly recommend you do) and find yourself feeling bored, if this book gives you nothing - you have got a heart of stone. I almost cried while reading and that's saying a lot since even Titanic doesn't make me cry.

Thank you Cindy Miles for writing this amazing book. I am sorry if this review isn't much of a help, but my reviews usually aren't, haha. I hope to be reading more of your stuff in the future.

Dienstag, 19. August 2014

This Is Falling - Ginger Scott

Title: This Is Falling
Author: Ginger Scott
Rating: 4 - 4.5/5

Thanks to Ginger Scott and NetGallery for letting me read this book before the official release.
First, I had to remember how to breathe. Then, I had to learn how to survive. Two years, three months and sixteen days had passed since I was the Rowe Stanton from before, since tragedy stole my youth and my heart went along with it.

When I left for college, I put a thousand miles between my future and my past. I’d made a choice—I was going to cross back to the other side, to live with the living. I just didn’t know how.

And then I met Nate Preeter.

An All-American baseball player, Nate wasn’t supposed to notice a ghost-of-a-girl like me. But he did. He shouldn’t want to know my name. But he did. And when he learned my secret and saw the scars it left behind, he was supposed to run. But he didn’t.

My heart was dead, and I was never supposed to belong to anyone. But Nate Preeter had me feeling, and he made me want to be his. He showed me everything I was missing.

And then he showed me how to fall.
I think every reader can connect with Rowe. I can't even describe why, but all her doubts, etc. - I know that I can perfectly relate to her character. Her character was thought-through and not just written down, come what may. The author had a plan behind that, and you get to know Rowe like you'd want to get to know a friend. A loyal friend, to be exact.

And Nate... It's your own fault if you don't fall for him. Male characters have it so easy, seriously. Tons of girls are swooning after them and all they have to do is to exist inside a book. Some may say his story doesn't get as much attention as Rowe's, but I like the way things are said and unsaid. I wouldn't want Sadie to show up more often and I wouldn't want him to attend to more practice sessions. His side of the story was good the way it was. I didn't feel like anything was missing, neither did I feel that way with Rowe's point of views.

This Is Falling... Was it? Falling, I mean? Definitely, yes. And yet far from it. It was falling, tearing and shattering my heart into pieces. In the most beautiful way, as well. After finishing this book, I was totally confused and didn't know what to do with myself. I am still free falling here, waiting for my parachute to open up, rescuing me before I crash. And I will crash. Because that's what this story does to you. It makes you look forward to that special crash that's going to leave you stunned and breathless.

Very poetic, wasn't I? Tried my best, haha. Anyway... During the book (after the first few pages, to be honest) I was done. I just knew this was about to become one of the greatest reads this year. Even better - 'guilty pleasure'-list, here comes This Is Falling, one of my most favourite books ever. I found myself wishing I had written this book, wishing I was as good as Ginger Scott. The story was brilliant and though a lot of books happen to have a great story, most of them point out difficulties on paper. But not this one. It was very well-written, easy to understand (especially for a non-American like me) and yet you cannot miss Ginger Scott's talent with words. They're chosen wisely. Gah, I adore it. (And the cover is also really pretty!)

That's why I love NetGallery so much. You find book you didn't really had on your list and find yourself getting lost in a beautiful story. So, yeah, I'm really glad I stumbled across this one. I'm glad I am a bookworm and had the pleasure to read This Is Falling before most readers get the chance to. And I know I will buy myself a phsyical copy too. My shelf is practically screaming for it to take a seat.

Another detail I'd like to mention, as soon as I read about Ty, I wanted him to get a book of his own. I wish it was late 2014 already, because that's when his book will come out. I can't wait to read about his life as someone who can't walk, but used to. Of course, I am excited to read more of Ginger Scott's work.

Freitag, 15. August 2014

Upside Down (Off The Map #01) - Lia Riley

Title: Upside Down (Off The Map #01)
Author: Lia Riley
Rating: 3.5/5

Thanks to NetGallery and Forever (Grand Central Publishing) for letting me receive a digital copy of this book.
If You Never Get Lost, You'll Never Be Found

Twenty-one-year-old Natalia Stolfi is saying good-bye to the past-and turning her life upside down with a trip to the land down under. For the next six months, she'll act like a carefree exchange student, not a girl sinking under the weight of painful memories. Everything is going according to plan until she meets a brooding surfer with hypnotic green eyes and the troubling ability to see straight through her act.

Bran Lockhart is having the worst year on record. After the girl of his dreams turned into a nightmare, he moved back home to Melbourne to piece his life together. Yet no amount of disappointment could blind him to the pretty California girl who gets past all his defenses. He's never wanted anyone the way he wants Talia. But when Bran gets a stark reminder of why he stopped believing in love, he and Talia must decide if what they have is once in a lifetime . . . of if they were meant to live a world apart.
I can definitely see why everyone on Twitter is chatting about this book. I was surprised I got accepted to read an advance copy at last. I got it right after the official release. I had totally forgotten about it since I requested it like four weeks before the acception. But I'm glad I got accepted. It's a great book.

It doesn't happen very often that I like both main characters. Either I like the hero or the heorine. With Upside Down I liked both. I liked Bran just as much as I liked Talia, their action totally understanding from my point of view. I was also positive surprised about the way they met. It was so uncommon and yet it fitted into the story. And though Bran is the typical player, he is different from them all. Gosh, I am running out of words. See what you did there Lia? Also, you make me want to travel so damn bad. I loved how you included so many places.

So, how can I describe this book like all these famous authors do. You know, those comments that get printed on the back of a book. Hmm... Saying It was an emotional read that had me struggling with tears isn't offering that many informations, is it? Gah, you reviews - you are seriously messing with my head.

The book shows real life problems and the characters don't seem fictional at all. It's like Lia Riley wrote down the story of two real human beings on this planet. Every little detail in this story made sense, and though it won't become my favourite read (I am very sorry to say that, but you see, I read too many books to choose a favourite), it's on the "that book was awesome" list. I can't wait for the next book in this series to release. I'm excited to read more about Bran and Talia's lives.

I'm sorry for keeping this review so short. I'm pretty uncreative these days.

Samstag, 26. Juli 2014

The Trap (Trapped #0.5) - Beverly Kendall

Title: The Trap (Trapped #0.5)
Author: Beverley Kendall
Rating: 3/5

Thanks to NetGallery and Season Publishing for giving me a chance to read this book.
Looking back, I should have seen it coming.

Paige didn’t like that I went so far away to university. But it was going to only be for two years. She'd join me after she did her two years at community college. I thought we could swing that no problem. We were solid.

But she hated the distance. She hated not seeing me every day. She complained that I didn’t come home enough. She hated that for months on end, texting and phone calls were our only form of communication. It wasn’t enough.

She'd ask about the girls on campus. She’d gotten it into her head that girls were always making a play for me. I laughed and told her even if that were true, I’d never cheat on her. She didn't seem completely reassured by that.

The bottom line is, Paige thought she was losing me. She wanted me home with her. But I could never imagine the level she'd sink to—the trap she’d set to make that happen. And like an idiot I walked right into it.

And it’s a mistake I'm going to have to pay for the rest of my life.
Alright, so I think I’ve never actually read a novella prequel before the original first book. I can’t really say why. Maybe they were never released before the first book. I don’t know. Anyway… I think it’s good to start with The Trap if you want to read Trapped, simply because a lot of things happen in the prequel. I haven’t read Trapped yet, and I was told it can be read as a standalone, but who wants that? You want to understand why the characters interact and react the way they do. Some books have to have a prequel to let the reader see the intention behind their actions.

I want to slap and strangle Paige really bad, I’ve got to admit. I can’t help but think she cheated on … and maybe that’s spoiling, because there definitely is a big secret we’re denied to find out yet, but I hate her for it. I hate her so damn much. Don’t get me wrong, it’s totally horrible to get pregnant at such young age. You have to be a real tough girl in order to deal with that and I don’t see her being a tough girl. Gah, I really can’t stand her, I’m sorry.

And maybe it’s fate, I’m not sure, but I can’t seem to hate any male characters. It’s not in my nature or whatever. I wanted to cry for Mitch and comfort him. Readers may get the impression that he’s being harsh. Well, please imagine it was you. I bet 99% of us would react the same way. And when you get to read Trapped teasers, it’s pretty clear he isn’t as bad as some might like to think.

So, what more can I say? This was just a prequel, I think I shouldn’t write so much. This book is something I can recommend, if you like these easy reads that reflect friendship and teenage drama. It should be turned into a TV series or something, but then again it's probably already out there somewhere in a different kind of way. Good job, Beverley Kendall! I'm going to go for Trapped next.

Donnerstag, 12. Juni 2014

The Real Thing - Cassie Mae

Title: The Real Thing
Author:
Cassie Mae
Rating: 4/5

Thanks to NetGallery and Random House Publishing Group (Loveswept) for giving me a chance to read this before the official release.

Eric Matua has one friend—his best friend and childhood sweetheart, who needs a place to stay for the summer. Mia Johnson has thousands of friends—who live in her computer. Along with her email chats and Facebook notifications, Mia also devours romance novels, spending countless hours with fictional characters, dreaming of her own Romeo to sweep her off her feet. When she starts receiving supersweet messages from a stranger who thinks she’s someone else, Mia begins to believe that real love is possible outside her virtual world.

When the two friends become roommates, Mia finds herself falling harder than she ever thought she could. But Eric keeps his desires locked away, unsure of himself and his ability to give his best friend what she deserves in a boyfriend. As her advances are continually spurned, Mia splits her time between Eric and her computer. But she soon realizes she’s about to lose the only real thing she’s ever had.
Big hugs to April Flores who accepted my request on this one. I was so afraid I might not be allowed to read this book before the official publication date, and I think my lungs might have stopped working for a bit after I got the email. Thank you so much!

I told my future best author friend (short: BAFF) Cassie Mae I would write this review today. And yeah, I'm gonna be her BAFF along with Theresa Paolo, better believe it bitches. Haha, oh my. I should skip the gangster language.

However, I wish I could use gifs and pictures and even post the cover and all that stuff, but no can do. My internet hates me that much, yes. I wish I had my regular internet back. Companies should be more cooperative, I tell you.

First things first. I'll probably forget the second and third and fourth and so on... Whatever. I have to mention that I love the title The Real Thing. Why? Well, I am a huge Gwen Stefani fan (having a German website about her) and I just can't help but think of one of her songs, which is also called The Real Thing. I have no idea if Cassie Mae knows that song, yet the story in it is kind of similar to the book. Okay, actually it isn't. It's not about a computer addict and a guy who has to overcome his past relationship. It's a song about two lovers and ohhhh! You should definitely see the video she shooted for that song as footage for her Harajuku Lovers Tour. Fine, I'm spilling too much Gwen Stefani information here. I'm sorry. Or not. You'll never know. Give it a try - the song and the video. Please.

Back to Cassie Mae's work. I'm a fan of her work. Everything she writes comes out funny and light and yet the heros and heroines are mostly dealing with serious problems. And some are dealing with teenagers problems. The funny thing is, you can always relate to the characters. So, when I started The Real Thing I thought it was another light read by one of my favourite authors. It was... Not what I expected.

It was still flawless, let me tell you. But it was also so different from what Cassie Mae usually writes. It's more mature, the characters are older, there is no high school, there are no innocent crushes and there are (and holy cow, that's a happy dance worth) dirty and naughty thoughts. Take a breath, take a breath.

I think there never was a character that messed with my feelings as much as Emilia, wanting to hate her and feeling sorry for her within the blink of an eye. It's so weird. Well, I am weird, that explains it all. Whenever I read her picking up her phone and staring at the computer screen, I became really really mad. It's good when the reader developes some strong emotions, right? Yeah, I wanted to punch her and spit at her and whatever else I could have thought of. The fact that I couldn't hurt my poor eBook reader left my unsatisfied and I am so not a violent person. I may be surrounded by a lot (coming to think in what district of my city I'm living), but I'm not. I like to avoid confilicts at all cost. Emilia was an addicted and I think people underestimate the fact that looking at your cell phone all the time is an issue. Of course, I think the media intends to over-talk the whole thing and actually forces people right into that addiction. I think Cassie Mae delt well with Emilia's addition and I also think it was important she made Emilia see her own flaws, wanting to change them then.

Question: Is there a single male character in Cassie Mae's books that I don't fall in love with? There sure isn't. Each and every of her male characters are great. And how did she come up with such an unusual name too? I can't pronounce it or even write it. I'll call him Eric just like everyone else. In the beginning, you don't get to see his weak side. You get to see a boy that's in love with his best friend, acting like a typical twenty year old. And when you find out what's wrong with him, you'll find yourself asking if that's even possible. If strange things like that really happen, especially to boys. Another awesome idea of the author to choose this kind of issue for the hero in the story. It's so uncommon and yet so... I don't know. I'm running out of adjectives. It's different and great. I liked that a lot. By the way, is it okay if I just picture all of her male characters looking like Dylan O'Brien? I think they'd like that (and I can certainly say Cassie Mae is a hundred percent fine with that too, haha).

And though the book is more mature than her other books, Cassie Mae hasn't turned her back on funny comments and extra funny scenes. I'm glad for that because those things make her books hers. You know what I mean? It wouldn't be a Cassie Mae book without her humour.

I think that's it. Here is a long story short: I loved it and not just because I love Cassie Mae, but because the story was great, the writing was flawless as always and I wouldn't want to change a thing about the book, I think. Cassie Mae fans will love it. Please buy it. Please read it a hundred times and then some more. Please read it to your friends. Please read it to your family (book choose the members wisely, some scenes may not be so... family-reading-like). Adore Cassie Mae. Follow her on Twitter and Facebook. Make sure to read her other books.

Is that too much promotion? Not like I care, just wanted to make sure I support her enough. :)

Samstag, 7. Juni 2014

Have Mercy - Shelley Ann Clark

Title: Have Mery
Author: Shelley Ann Clark
Rating: 2.5/5

Thanks to NetGallery and Random House Publishing Group (Loveswept) for giving me a chance to read this before the official release.
Rock diva Emme Hayes already broke up one band after sleeping with the lead singer, and she swears she won’t let sex screw things up again. The problem is, her new bass player—a lean, muscular, tattooed mystery man who makes her want to demand his absolute attention—has her so worked up she can hardly carry a tune. Emme promises he’s off-limits. She just doesn’t know how she’ll be able to confine the heat to her love songs.

The moment Tom McKinney lays eyes on Emme strutting around the stage of his blues bar—all curves, eye liner, and teased blond hair—he knows she’s one of a kind. So when she offers him a two-month paid gig to tour with her band, Tom can’t say no, despite family troubles and the bar’s precarious finances. Onstage and off, the music they make thrums in his soul, but Tom has too much going on to get involved—even if he burns to let Emme play his body like a fine-tuned instrument.
Due to internet problems, I am sorry the review isn't up on Goodreads yet and there is no image of the book cover. As soon as my internet allows me to browse faster, the problem will be taken care of.

I'm feeling horrible. I mean, when you request a book and actually get the chance to read it before most other people in this world, you should call yourself lucky. But I was disappointed in this book and I am so sorry for it.

It wasn't about the writing or the story (the idea behind that was pretty great). It was more about the fact that I should quit reading rock star romances. I used to like them, but now all I ever see is bleh. The book can be incredible and I still wouldn't be able to see its beauty. I'm afraid I am not able to write a fair review on this and I am really sorry about that.

What I can tell you is that I'd definitely read a book about Tom's sister. I'd like to read more about her story and her thoughts. I wouldn't even mind if it included some band or rock star things.

I know, I suck at writing reviews, especially this one, giving you no information or anything. I don't think this book was a waste of time and it certainly wasn't the worst book I've ever read. It wasn't! There were some scenes (the rain scene for example) that I really enjoyed. It wasn't that bad. I just wished to see the character's feeling develope. It was like: Meeting and then that's it - they're perfectly aware of their feelings for each other. I wanted them to experience more than just a tour and seduction and all that stuff. I wanted it to be real or just closer to reality.

Samstag, 3. Mai 2014

Love, Lex (The Undergrad Years #01) - Avery Aster

Title: Love, Lex (The Undergrad Years #01)
Author: Avery Aster
Rating: 3.5/5

Thanks to NetGallery and Avery Aster for giving me a chance to read this before the official release.

Alexandra 'Lex' Easton can hardly wait for her eighteenth birthday. Finally, she will give up her Lady V to her boyfriend. Things change when she catches him sleeping with her mother the day she, her boyfriend and her friends want to fly to Paris. Things get even worse when she and her friends get arrested for blowin up her mother's place. And things get really, really worse when the handsome cop who stopped Lex driving, can't seem to stick his nose somewhere else.

Oh my. I wrote a sypnosis. I can't believe it. Woooo! And it sucks so bad. Just like it always does. Well, well...

Okay, hold on, hold on! What was that? Dear Avery Aster, tell me - did you run out of ideas? Did you have a deadline that was crawling closer and closer? What happened? I hated that ending. So very much. How could you do this? It was like: "[...] and lived happily ever after." Are you kidding me?

The story idea was great. Catching your boyfriend and your mom in action? Meeting a hot, young cop? Daydreaming about that cop? G-E-N-I-U-S.

But that ending... Gah, that ending. Wait, that's your magic trick, right? Writing a fabulous story, making the reader fall in love with the idea and then BAM! Killing us off with an ending like that.

I don't know if I'll read the next books. I hated Lex's friends, not sure why though.

I la-la loved Lex's daydreams. They were better than the actual thing. A lot better. And whoa... Those daydreams were hot! Yum, yum.

"After I've lost my virginity, Lady V, I imagine future sex with Kelle will be similar to riding The Pocket Rocket. Hopefully minus the contant stop and go between traffic lights."
Such a good laugh! This is supposed to be a light read, I assume. It definitely is. Some scenes, those in which Lex shares background infos, were quite boring. I'm so sorry for saying this. Maybe it's just me - I really can't relate to rich and famous characters.

I really liked this book. I would have wanted to read more about Lex and Ford, developing their feelings, getting to know each other. So, I'll probably read their sequel.

Although I warn about the ending (consider this a warning, haha), I'd recommend this to fans of the light New Adult genre. It's more like a short Adult fiction story, starring teenagers.

Fall With Me - Julie Particka

Title: Fall With Me
Author: Julie Patricka
Rating: 3/5

Thanks to NetGallery and Entangled Publishing (Embrace) for giving me a chance to read this before the official release.

In the game of love…

Dumped by her college boyfriend for her best friend, the last thing Jenna Brandt needs to deal with is working beside her backstabbing-BFF's hotter-than-hot brother. But when he offers her a chance to get some revenge on her ex, she can hardly say no--even if spending more time with Sutton puts her heart in jeopardy all over again.

Someone's going to get hurt…

Sutton Bell has had a thing for Jenna since they were in high school, but after one screwed-up night, she didn’t want anything to do with him. Now, with just the summer before he leaves to begin his new career, Sutton’s determined to convince Jenna he’s not the player he used to be. But saving his sister from making an awful mistake may mean losing Jenna for good.

Fall With Me is a book which story has been turned into a dozen movies already. Girl's boyfriend cheats with the girl's best friend, girl hates both, girl flls for ex-best friend's brother, he convinces the girl to forgive. In order to be different from those movies, your book has to be something special.

At first I thought Julie created something awesome here. I'm not saying she didn't. She can be proud of her work. It just didn't do it for me. Onc Jenna and Sutton figured there was chemistry between them (happen pretty fast), the book lost its appeal.

Taking revenge on your ex seems childish. Wanting to protect your sister isn't, but Sutton did this the wrong way.

I'm keeping the review short. I'm sorry it didn't blow me away like I hoped it would. This has absolutely nothing to do with the author or her writing. The writing was pretty good actually. I also don't regret reading it or thnk of it as a waste of time. No. Maybe if there was a prequel to it, I would have enjoyed it more. I don't know.

Recommending this to New Adult readers, wanting to try some New Adult meets Adult fiction.

Undeniable (Undeniable #01) - Ashley Simone, Alicia Roberts

Title: Undeniable (Undeniable #01)
Author: Ashley Simone, Alicia Roberts
Rating: 3/5

Thanks to NetGallery and Ashley Simone for giving me a chance to read this before the official release.

What if One Night Could Change Your Life?

Working in a diner by day and desperately applying for accounting jobs by night, Allie Nobokov fears that her future will be one of a single, virginal, cat lady. A chance encounter with a gorgeous stranger, Zac, awakens her desires and she feels an undeniable connection.

When fate pushes them together once again, Allie’s desires run wild – until, just when things start getting hot and heavy, Zac disappears into the night...

How can you deny a connection so strong?

All that is pushed to the back of Allie’s mind when her younger brother shows up on her doorstep, desperately in need of more money than she can provide… Until she sees a classified ad.

“I met a girl and I can’t get over her,” says the ad, and goes on to describe Allie. “If you look like her, I’ll pay handsomely for one night with you.”

Can Allie summon the courage to answer the mysterious ad and go through with what it entails? And can she convince the enigmatic Zac to push aside his demons and give their love a chance?
When I requested Undeniable I thought it was a full-length novel. I have a hard time reading short novels, novellas.

I'm ashamed to compare this book to 50 Shades of Gray. It's like you can't read a book that includes sexy scenes, seducing scenes, etc. without thinking of EL James' series first. Funny because I still haven't read those.

I don't know if the authors started this series as a novel and cut it then. I guess the story was meant to happen in short novels. That'd explain why some parts seemed rushed to me. However, sometimes it's better to rush than to make the reader feel bored by describing too much.

Allie really cared for her brother, so the story also focuses on other relationships too.

I had a problem wth how easily Allie found Zac on the internet. That didn't happen by accident, did it? ;)

Saying this is my new favorite book would be a lie. But I liked it enough to be excited about the sequel.

Dienstag, 29. April 2014

Blue Notes - Carrie Lofty

Title: Blue Notes
Author: Carrie Lofty
Rating: 3.5 - 4 / 5
Thanks to NetGallery and Gallery Books for giving me a chance to read this before the official release.
After being bounced from foster family to foster family, Keeley, a talented pianist, is ready to start over as a junior at Tulane. But when she plays a small concert that attracts the attention of Jude, a brooding playboy and heir to an enormous fortune in the wake of his parents’ tragic death, suddenly Keeley’s life is thrown off balance once again.

Jude is the first person to confront her about the pain behind her music, and she struggles with whether or not to let him into her life, or to keep protecting herself from the hurt that relationships have caused her in the past. But Keeley’s about to learn that the melancholy young billionaire who appears to have everything he wants can open her eyes to exactly what she needs…
I'm so sorry for sticking with the original sypnosis again. I can't seem to find the right words in order to write one myself.

There are books you request on NetGallery and never imagine to actually get. Thank you to whoever pressed the 'accept' button. I'm really thankful for that.

It's easy to compare this book to Fifty Shades of Gray or is it Grey? I have no idea, I never read those books. From what I've heard, this one here is pretty similar though. Difference is, this is for new adults. I'm not sure if Shades of Gray is adult material or starts off with new adult too, but well... It doesn't really matter. It's about seducing and someone who's older and sexyness (is that a word?) and dares and fears.

So please don't make the mistake and think of this book as a sweet story. I know the cover is making you think up stories about unicorns and cotton candy in your head. You couldn't be more wrong. I thought this would be a light read too, a bit poetic maybe. Truth is, it's raw and powerful and ruins the skin on your cheeks because you'll eventually find yourself crying. Or near to tears. No denying that.

The sad thing is, however, this book loses its voice through the story. In the beginning I thought this would be another poetic read, as I said, and then I fell in love with the story so much, I was disappointed as I turned the pages. I can't exactly describe why and I hate for being disappointed in the end as much as I am. I think Keeley hasn't exactly figured out who she is. Her past still lingers somewhere between the pages and my eyes and I want her to overcome her fears completely. To be honest, she hasn't become a different person. She might have fallen in love with an asshole (a very handsome one, I assume) but her character lost its appeal. Gosh, I'm being too harsh, aren't I? Let's just say that I started to dislike her character after the middle of the book.

Also, I liked Jude in the beginning so much more. I was surprised to find sympathy for Adelaide. I wish there was a book about her, and Janissa too. Those two really grew on me. I usually can't stand the main character's best friends, but I really liked Janissa and Adelaide.

I should probably quit writing reviews, considering I'm not really good at it. I liked the story itself and I enjoyed it most of the time. Just because I didn't like the last forty pages or so doesn't mean I'm going to give Blue Notes a bad rating. I just hoped to find out more about Keeley's past and I also couldn't relate to Jude's problems. It seemed like once he said it all out loud, the magic was gone.

I repeat - I liked this book. This isn't a mean review, no. I'd recommend it. Strongly. It's not a bad book. I will just stop and let you read it yourself.

Freitag, 18. April 2014

How We Lived (Remembering Kyle #01) - Erin Butler

Title: How We Lived (Remembering Kyle #01)
Author: Erin Butler
Rating: 4.5/5

Thanks to NetGallery and Entangled Publishing (Embrace) for giving me a chance to read this before the official release.
Nineteen-year-old Kelsey Larkin’s parents uninvited her to her brother’s funeral. She just wanted to wear jeans and a T-shirt—the clothes Kyle would’ve wanted her in—not wrap herself up in death. So she watched the funeral from afar, like an outsider. Which is just how she feels.

Chase came, though, just like she knew he would. Until a few months ago, the three of them had been best friends, and then Chase made a mistake that shattered both families. But when Kelsey looks at him, she doesn’t see her brother’s killer. She sees the boy next door who’s always taken care of her. She sees home.

When Chase tells her his feelings run deeper than friendship, she can’t help but get lost in him. In Chase, she finally has the closure she’s been unable to find anywhere else. But the boy she’s falling in love with is still hiding secrets about the night Kyle died. Secrets that could destroy everything they have…again.
I am currently not able to go online via computer, so I have to keep the review 'short'. That's why it took so long to copy the review to Goodreads - my internet is too slow to load a lot of things. I'm sorry for sticking with the official sypnosis.

I can safely say - I loved this book to pieces! I chatted with Erin Butler via Twitter while I read it, telling her this book was the only good thing happening during the move we're currently in.

It's always sad to read about loss, especially a loss of someone the main character loved very much. I was so sad and grieved for Kelsey, but when Chase came into the picture I felt hope. I wanted to slap both of them a couple of times - they both had their strange sides and their lovely sides. Gosh, I suck so bad at writing this review. I am sorry Erin.

You know, the strange thing is, I didn't blame Chase for Kyle's death either. If this was real life and I wouldn't see Kelsey point of view, I probably might have blamed Chase. But with both their point of views, I wanted everybody else to see the good Chase, the one who cared and who was sexy and the one who would do anything for the ones close to him. Gaaaah! I want a Chase! Bake one!

Even funnier, I picked this book up randomly. I browsed through NetGallery and it sounded nice, so I requested it. I am so damn glad I got accepted. I wouldn't want to miss to have read this masterpiece. I think everyone else should, too. It's one of my favourite reads this year, and definitely in my guilty pleasure shelf (the best shelf) on Goodreads. I can't wait to order a physical copy. A beauty like this has to appear in my book shelf. Like, immeditaley. I wish I could undo reading this book and read it all over again, not knowing what to expect.

I'm sorry for not describing the characters. I'll say it like this: You'll love Chase. You'll want a Chase. And you'll find yourself being Kelsey, not just reading about a foreign girl. You will hate Kelsey's mom, both of her parents, and you will fall in love with Chase's mother and his friend Vito.

How We Lived is spectacular (I have to use that word, because I don't know how to spell the actual one I want to use haha)! I'm telling the truth when I say I compare it to a raw diamond - so beautiful. It involves everything a good book should. And I really recommend it to fans of The Sky Is Everywhere by Jandy Nelson, and One Moment by Kristina McBride.

I love you Erin Butler. Please write more books - I can't wait to read more of your writing. Oh, yeah, I forgot to mention: As a wanna-be writer (I'm talking about me, if you haven't figured) I admire the way Erin Butler writes. I wish I could write like that.

Donnerstag, 3. April 2014

Heartbitten - Aubrey Rose

Title: Heartbitten
Author: Aubrey Rose
Rating: 3.5 - 4/5

Thanks to NetGallery and Fido Publishing for letting me receive a digital copy of this book.

Robb has lost a very important person in his early life - Eliza. He lost her because the vampires took him and made him become one too. Now, a hundred years later, he finds himself torn between giving love a new chance, having Liz in his life, who a virgin on top of it all, and the costs that come along by being a vampire.

Liz puts all of her focus on her work. She loves her job, and if Jenny wouldn't drag her, she'd never willingly go to a party. She's not much of a party person, let alone searching looking for a relationship. But then she meets Robb Chatham who is too goodlooking for his own good. Will she still lust after him when she finds out about his secret?

Please ignore the sypnoses, as always. I'm not good at writing them.

Do you know these moments when you browse through a book website and find one that captures your attention by the sypnosis so bad, you want to read it immediately? That's what happened to me when I found Heartbitten on NetGallery. I was browsing though the different sections of genres and found Heartbitten. There was part of a conversation between Liz and Robb and I fell in love. I wanted to have that book. You can imagine how happy I was, when I actually received it.

Usually, I prefer to read books written in first person. I can't seem to relate to third person that well. But forget it! Aubrey Rose's writing is too perfect to complain. She's one of my new favourite authors, a new rulemodel when it comes to writing.

I adored Liz and Robb's characters. Their feelings and intentions were described perfectly, leaving nothing to the imagination.

What I missed though was the story of Robb, how he became a vampire. We only know that they took him, but we don't know what happened then. Or is my English that bad and I didn't understand it, missed reading that scene? If so, I am very sorry. I was too excited about the romance between Liz and Robb. And oh God! That romance. I totally loved it.

My favourite scene... I know, no one's interested in reading about that, but I want to mention it anyway. I had lots of favourite scenes, but my very very favourite was when Liz thought she had discovered Robb's secret and it was a total misunderstanding, turning into a disaster. She was so supportive and all cute about convincing him it was all okay. She hadn't expected that. Love, love, love that scene!

Sometimes, it was hard for me to understand the biological and chemistry language in this book. But that's just because English isn't my mother-tongue. Oh, and I really don't know why this book is titled as New Adult. Robb clearly isn't a new adult and Liz... She may be a virgin, but she is acting like a real grown-up.

I don't want to give away too much. I really loved the book and I am glad to have found such a talented author through NetGallery. Thanks for that. I really hope for a sequel to Heartbitten, because I'd love to read more about those two lovebirds. A book about Jenny, or even Thad (though I really didn't like the guy) would be nice too. Just give me more, Aubrey. Do it, do it, do it! I'm begging you. Pleaseeeee!

Sonntag, 2. März 2014

Til Death (Fractured Souls #01) - Kate Evangelista

Title: Til Death (Fractured Souls #01)
Author: Kate Evangelista
Rating: 3.5/5

Thanks to NetGallery and Entangled Teen for giving me the chance to read this book before the official release date.
Sixteen-year old Selena Fallon is a dreamer. Not a day-dreamer, but an I-see-the-future kind of dreamer. Normally this is not a problem as she has gotten pretty good at keeping her weird card hidden from everyone in her small town. Except from her best friend Kyle and her grandparents, of course. But when Selena dreams of her own rather bloody death, things get a little too freaky even for her.

Enter Dillan Sloan. Selena has seen the new guy in a different dream, and he is even more droolworthy in person. Beyond the piercing blue eyes and tousled dark hair, there is something else that draws her to him. Something…electric. Unfortunately, Dillan makes it more than clear that he does not feel the same. They just met, so why would he act like he hates her?

When Dillan and Selena are forced together one weekend to work on a school project, Selena prepares to be ignored as usual. But when she stumbles across a few undead in the backyard, Dillan comes to her rescue and reveals a whole lot more. Not only is he part of a society that hunts otherworldly creatures…she is too. And she is being targeted by a force bigger and darker than anything she ever imagined. Despite her death dream, Selena is not going to give up easy, especially when she discovers that Dillan might not actually hate her after all.
Thought it was better to stick with the blurb on Goodreads for this one too. I couldn't bring myself to write one.

I found the writing for this one incredibly exciting. When you read Dillan's point of view, it's written in third person. Selena's point of view is written in first person. I think I've never read anything like that, and I found myself liking it this way. It was very interesting.

Selena's point of view focuses on the 'normal' life more, I'd say. Well, it's what she's used to anyway, so it makes sense. When I was reading her parts, I felt like I was reading a casual teenage novel and when it came down to Dillan's point of view, I was thrown into this paranomal world. Selena has those parts too, but Dillan's universe is all about that. The two had different voices, so to speak, I don't know how to put it. I think it's awesome, you could never mix those two up.

I absolutely loved reading about Dillian being haunted by Katarina. I can't wait to see how that ends... Oh, I don't want to spoil, gaaaah! I've just got to be patient, yes, I know.

I also think that Kate Evangelista is a master of writing cliffhangers. You always find yourself wanting more and more. I want the second book now, please! :D See, I want more already. You'll see why once you finish the book.

Short sentences for the other characters in this book. I felt so sorry for Bowen somehow. I absolutely loved Kyle. I found Dillan's uncle a bit strange. I'd like to read more about Penny.

The only thing that confused me was how everyone seemed to have secrets and be mysterious in their own ways.

You can read this book whether you're into paranomal stuff or not. See it as a bonus if you like. Clearly, it'd be better if you're a bit interested in that kind of genre, but this book's also something for all those you will read just any young adult book.

Some of my questions are still unanswered, so I'll definitely pick up book number two!

Searching For Beautiful - Nyrae Dawn

Title: Searching For Beautiful
Author: Nyrae Dawn
Rating: 4/5

Thanks to NetGallery and Entangled Publishing for giving me the chance to read this book before the official release date.

Before, Brynn had a group of best friends, a loving boyfriend, a growing talent for pottery. She had a life. And after…she had none.

When Brynn lost the boyfriend who never loved her, the friends who feel she betrayed their trust, and the new life just beginning to grow inside her, she believes her future is as empty as her body. But then Christian, the boy next door, starts coming around. Playing his guitar and pushing her to create art once more. She meets some new friends at the local community center, plus even gets her dad to look her in the eye again…sort of.

But can Brynn open up her heart to truly find her life’s own beauty, when living for the after means letting go of the before?
I'm sticking with the blurb on Goodreads this time. I know I suck at writing those on my own.

Searching For Beautiful
is based on a really great story. There isn't a boring start to this or anything, no, we get a point of view of things right away. We're brought right into the action, into the shocking action, I think I should say. You'll find yourself disappointed in Jason right from the start. And though I wish it wasn't true, every girl will probably find a guy like that tugged inside their head, not wanting to think about him. I really hated that character right away.

I also couldn't relate to Brynn's friends. I found them annoying. Maybe that's the reason why I don't like the stories I write - I always long for harmony. I couldn't stand friends to be distant for such a long time, acting cold, ignoring each other. They should have believed Brynn. Friends do that, don't they? What is it with me and always hating the main character's friends?

So, Christian... Finally a hispanic guy. I missed those. I sometimes couldn't understand his actions, but then I guess Nyrae created the perfect boy characters - girl just can't understand boys sometimes haha. Christian is a guitar player, but he isn't one of those typical ones. He doesn't brag about it. I also totally loved his gummy bear obsession, it was totally cute. He's make a great book boyfriend - someone with flaws, not too perfect. He had some problems of his own, which was really refreshing next to all these perfect-model-like-I've-got-no-problems-at-all guys.

Also, I liked that the story wasn't focused on Brynn's lost of her mother. It would have been too sad to read about more loss and sad emotions. I'm not sure I could have dealt with that. If Brynn was a real person, she would disagree with me now, but I have to say that she is such a strong girl. The second you read about her, you just get her. It clicks.

During the book I found myself asking if maybe I wanted Brynn to get together with Ian again. I would have liked to read more about their story. Granted, I guess there isn't much to their story, but I like to think he was a nice guy after all; he just didn't know how to treat her right. Let me live inside my own dream world, please.

Nyrae Dawn is one of my favourite authors already. I recently just found out that her other novel, Charade, is out here in Germany. I think I have to pick it up, though I read it in English already. I'm glad she finally gets some attention over here as well. By writing Searching For Beautiful she steadied her position as one of my favourite authors. Maybe this was even my favourite of her novels. I loved it! I really did! I might add that I loved the dedication in this one, really lovely, Nyrae Dawn. :)

Freitag, 31. Januar 2014

Full Measures - Rebecca Yarros

Title: Full Measures
Author: Rebecca Yarros
Rating: 4/5

Thanks to NetGallery and Entangled Publishing (Embrace) for giving me the chance to read this book before the official release date.

December's father is in the Army, but this Christmas he dies in Afghanistan. Everyone in her family seems to lose it, that's why she feels like she has to stay in control and take care of them all. Josh, her crush since freshman year in high school, sees through her act though and gives her comfort. For the first time ever, she learns what it's like to be just herself and taking care of others.

Ignore my summary, please. It is just as bad as always. I should stick with the ones written on Goodreads.

I didn't expect to like this book as much as I did. I started this randomly, actually, I picked it up randomly aswell. I browsed through NetGallery and thought that the blurb sounded nice and give it a try. I'm glad the publisher accepted my request, so first off - thank you for that! After the first few pages, I was blown away and surprised by how much this book really got to me. It was heartbreaking in the beginning and what happened when I got to the good part (readers will know the first GOOD part haha)... Yeah, my eReader battery died. Had to charge it and couldn't keep my fingers still, I swear. I wanted to continue. I wanted to know what happened next between Ember and Josh. I had to know. I thought of turning the computer on and read it via screen, but no. I controlled myself and waited patiently until my eReader was charged. So, I didn't get to finish it in one session. I wanted this book to last a little longer than the usual books I read and so I forced myself to put it down from time to time.

There were so many good parts about this book, I don't even know where to start. By the names of the characters probably? December, who is the main person, totally cool name. At first I thought she and Ember might be two different characters haha. I don't hear these name that often, that's why. Then there is April, Ember's sister and August "Gus", her younger brother. You think that's it? No, no! Then comes their mother and *ta-daaaaah* her name is June. I bet one of the grandmother's names is May or July. This is so cool, really.

And then there is Josh. *swoon* Totally the best of the best. Book boyfriend material. No, forget that. Book husband material. Once your read Full Measures yourself, you'll know what I'm talking about. So go on and read it, for the love of Josh, please!

Being with someone who's in the Army must be very difficult. I can't even imagine what it must be like to sit at home and wait, not knowing if your loved one is still alive or not. I don't want to go down that road if war is right or not. I think it's not. Most definitely not. So, I really don't want anyone of the ones I love to fight for their country. But that's a different topic. Let's not go there. Rebecca, however, created a very strong main character - Ember. Real people would have fallen apart and if not - I'm impressed then.

The only thing that annoyed me (a little bit) was all of Ember's "Josh" moments. She murmered it, she said it, she whispered it, she moaned it, she sighed it, she screamed it, you get the point. I would have left those parts or cut some of them at least. There were too much of them.

But all in all I really liked this book. I'm not usually the new adult chick. I read it and I like some stories fine, but they never really get to me like Full Measures did. I know why this book did though. It's new adult, but then again it has this young adult vibe and I am a sucker for young adult. I love it far too much. So, I admire Rebecca for actually finding an awesome balance between these two genres.

I would recommend this book to everyone I know. Seriously, everyone! Four stars and please give me April's book and Jagger's book and Sam's book and all the books you can possibily write for the characters Rebecca. Please, please, please!