Stitch by Samantha Durante

Stitch by Samantha Durante  (1 in Stitch Trilogy) 3.5 STARS

Synopsis :Her heart races, her muscles coil, and every impulse in Alessa's body screams at her to run... but yet she's powerless to move.
Still struggling to find her footing after the sudden death of her parents, the last thing college freshman Alessa has the strength to deal with is the inexplicable visceral pull drawing her to a handsome ghostly presence. In between grappling with exams and sorority soirees - and disturbing recurring dreams of being captive in a futuristic prison hell - Alessa is determined to unravel the mystery of the apparition who leaves her breathless. But the terrifying secret she uncovers will find her groping desperately through her nightmares for answers.
Because what Alessa hasn't figured out yet is that she's not really a student, the object of her obsession is no ghost, and her sneaking suspicions that something sinister is lurking behind the walls of her university's idyllic campus are only just scratching the surface...

Overall-
Okay, this one was really a struggle, in more than one way. I had seen such good reviews on Goodreads, that when the book finally went on sale (free) for a week I snatched it up! I was really excited to start reading it too. But once I started, I just couldnt get into it. I stuck it out though, the reviews promised it got good, I just had to stay with it. What they didnt tell me is that I had to read 50% of the book before it got good! I know from other books lately that there is a lot of build up that all plays in to final chapters of the book. their purpose is to ensure the reader gets a full picture, weaving the different points into the story for later use. Ms. Durante did a great job of this and I was blown away with the second half of the book, Im so glad I stuck it out!!! I loved how the different pieces of the story came back later, and felt so real. I am really looking forward to reading the rest of the trilogy! I cant wait to see whats in store for Alessa and Isaac now!

Cover- Somewhat Intriguing...
Rating PG
Characters: Alessa, Isaac 
Page Turner: towards the end 
Series Cont.? yes 
Book Boyfriend: Isaac
Genre: Dystopian, sci-fi, futuristic 
Sex Scenes:Nope
Setting- College town 

Dave Franco as Isaac

Plot- It was clear to me though from the beginning that something was amiss. Things just werent fitting together for me. Alessas descriptions of certain things felt out of place or abnormal, and the book felt like it was dragging. This was clue number 1 that it was all a set up. I knew from reading other similar books that this was the authors set up for the next two books and that things would eventually pick up. And boy did they! I was so impressed with the authors ability to weave the different pieces of the story together, plugging certain information from Alessa's beginning journey into the later story. I really liked the flashback pieces too. At first they didnt make sense, but as I started getting deeper into the story I realized that they were more flashbacks than dreams. These served more of a purpose for the reader I think, for the reader to start picking up on the pieces and putting them together, just like Alessa, which I think is quite impressive for the author to be able to do.

There were times that I wanted to throw the book down in anguish and annoyance, and at times I felt like the characters were being dumb. But it all worked out in the end, in a way that I enjoyed. I will say though, I was slightly confused with the wall thing, and getting out. But I dont want to spoil it for anyone who is reading this and hasnt read the book. So, while I admit I didnt feel much for Alessa at first, but the author surprised me towards the end, and I really fell for the love story and the characters really drew me in, I couldnt put the book down once I was in on the secret, and I cant wait for the rest of the series!!!

Alessa- Willa Holland

Characters-
Alessa- In the beginning I found Alessa annoying, and boring. But once the secret came out I really started to like her, she came out of this funk, the dream state I felt like she was in, and her personality really started to shine through, her strength and tenacity became evident. Alessa was quiet and peaceful at first, but then she became quite the leader and really showed her strength. I was really impressed with the turnaround! She was fiesty and loyal, but she was also smart, her personality reminds me of tris from Divergent, she is a lover, a fighter and has a loyal and passionate heart. I look forward to her next adventure!

Isaac- For the most part, I feel like Im just getting to know Isaac and havent really figured him out yet. From what  have gathered he seems like a good guy, a loving and caring friend and brother, and loyal to his friends and family. Im not sure if hes a fighter or not yet, but I suspect he is and that well see more of it in the next book. Im led to believe that the 2nd book will be similar to Article 5, so Im looking forward to that and Im looking forward to getting to know Isaac better in the next book. I felt like his role in this book was a little too simple, with not enough complexity and layers, but Im certain that his role will become larger in the next and that we will get to know him better.

What I didnt Like...
It was slow, and dragged throughout the first half of the book.
I wanted more love.
I wanted more of their interaction and their story, or just Isaac in general!
The age of everyone, they are like 25!
The escape/wall was really confusing to me.
Part of me wishes that the first novel would have been the love story and that this one could be the second novel, over coming the stitch and this false reality...

Moment

A Moment- Marie Hall- 3.5 STARS

Synopsis
A chance meeting... Life didn't turn out the way I'd ever hoped it would. I got pregnant at 14. Same year my mom got diagnosed with MS. Dad bailed on us and my life felt like it suddenly started to spiral out of control. I'm 21 now, I go to college, I work hard, trying to make something of myself. I wasn't supposed to be at that burlesque bar Valentine's Day. I wasn't supposed to meet Ryan Cosgrove, but I did. And now nothing will ever be the same. Love born from pain... I'm a retired Marine, an MMA fighter, and when I was younger something terrible happened to me. Life is hard and I'm so tired of pretending its not. I'm in a burlesque bar, drowning my sorrows, trying to shut out the demons breathing down my neck always reminding me I'm not good enough. Then I see Liliana Delgado and something inside of me- something I'd thought long dead- stirs to life. I wonder... can she save me? I hope she can, because I don't think I can save myself. This is our moment...

Overall-

This was one heart wrenching, but beautifully written story. A story about knowingly taking a chance on love and all the risks that come with it. I wasnt sure I was going to like this one going in, its different yet its the same. The one reason I wasnt sure was because a child is involved in the story line, which I dont usually do. (no offense, just not there yet in life). But I have to say that Marie Hall did a fantasic job of bringing all of these different hard ships into one story. Between a sick mother, a worthless father and a special needs child with no baby daddy to speak of, Liliana makes life look easy! Shes helping her mother, taking care of her baby boy, working two jobs and going to school! (How?! I dont know!) Bless her heart she has been given one heal of a hand, but plays it flawlessly. 

While Ryan, on the other hand, is a broken man for very different reasons. His demons are much deeper and darker, and mysterious, constantly haunting him. He struggles daily with his demons, as Liliana struggles daily with the consequences of life. Yet their lives become intertwined and they learn that with one another they are stronger, but are they strong enough to overcome all the hardships and their pasts? 

This story is intense. I cried more than I laughed. Even though this is a love story, it is also a coming of age story, albeit later in life. Each character has something affecting them that requires growth. I was really surprised at how strong Liliana was, given everything that had happened to her she was willing to try, try, try again. Her perseverance and determination was truly beautiful. In the same respect, Ryan's strength and ability to love was amazing. His story is deeply sad, without a lot of the same hope that Liliana's story has. 


I saw both character develop, grow and come into their own as well as together. I was impressed with how connected I felt to each character, demons and all, even though I didnt have much in common with either. I couldnt specifically relate, yet I could. I felt them through the book. 

The ending is perfect, I like the way everything ended and the epilogue was also a nice touch, providing just the right amount of details. 

I also feel that Alex played such an integral role in this book. Capturing my attention and my heart in the right ways. As a side character his role was still pivotal and it was evident through the authors writing. I look forward to reading his story and how he will cope with the fallout. 


I think what kept me from rating this higher, was really that it took me too long to get into this book, and to feel that connection. 


FINAL VERDICT- A WINNER. 

Loving Your Lies

Loving Your Lies by Piper Shelly - 2 STARS 

Synopsis-Julian is drop-dead gorgeous, annoyingly provocative, and he's fast becoming her best friend. But he also has a secret that makes the little hairs on her arms stand on end...
My name is Jona Montiniere, and that’s pretty much the only good thing to say about me. 
I’m seventeen, I’m snarky, and I’m a crap-load of trouble. Or so they say. But what did they expect from me really, when they dumped me in an orphanage at age five? That I’d grow up to become the new first lady? Nah, I think it’s much more fun to raid Camden Market in London with my friend, Debby. She’s cool. She lives on the street. I learned so much from her. 
The only thing she missed to teach me was how to tend to a vineyard. And yeah, that’s what I’m going to do for the next 6 weeks, courtesy to this darn judge, who sent me off to France after I was caught stealing again. Fair enough, the vineyards are okay, and so are my aunt and uncle, who I haven’t met up ‘til now. What isn’t okay, and I mean it, is that I have to live in the same house with my mother, that god-awful dragon, who spurned when I was only a child. And now she wants me back? Demands my forgiveness? Why, because she’s about to die of cancer? Uh-uh. Sorry, but that’s not gonna happen. I want no contact with that woman, thanks. 
But what’s Julian got to do with all of this? About my age, he’s too young to be my mother’s lover. So why doesn’t he leave her side? Ever. He’s different, as in the paranormal kind of different, but he’s sa-woon-worthy gorgeous. He obviously has secrets, but he’s also get-under-my-skin charming. In short, he’s a riddle to me. But he likes me, and that’s scaring the shit out of me. I sure won’t let anyone come too close. 
So now I'm wondering only two things: How did he manage to hold me in his arms after only three days? And how the hell do you keep an angel earth bound?(less)
Overall-
The plot of this story seemed very intriguing, and mysterious. Im a big fan of angels. But unfortunately I feel really let down after this one. I loved Jona and her voice, as I could relate to her. Her background made me understand her and gave her reasoning for acting so intolerable. However, her attitude was overblown, and over dramatic for too much of the story.  I would have liked to see her open up a bit more and really change as a "person." I enjoyed Julian's character however I never once felt connected to him or that he was connected with Jona, not really.  In the end I have a lot more dislikes than I do likes, which is why I gave it a two, I REALLY wanted to like this, I just couldnt. 

I think the general story was actually pretty good. But, the end result missed the mark a little. 

First, the book was WAY too descriptive given the nature of the book (i.e. its a mature young adult novel set in france current time, not some other universe or world). I ended up skimming a lot of the details because they seemed so irrelevant to the story. 
Second, Jona's antics got old, and so did her negative nancy tone. I could only read so much over dramatic angst. Dont get me wrong I love angst (see other postings) but at some point there needs to be a reprieve where I see the softer side and I see the characters change because of their affections for one another etc...that just didnt happen here. I didnt really feel anything between the characters. I saw Jona fall for Julian but didnt understand their love at all. 


Third, I dont understand what Julian sees in Jona and its NEVER explained. I honestly dont understand why or how Julian fell for Jona. None of their interactions make a whole lot of sense to me. I get that Julian wants to help Jona make amends with her mother, but thats where it ends for me. I didnt really FEEL their love or their chemistry. 


It took a lot of energy out of me to read this book, and I dont say that lightly. I will say though, Im glad I finished. I think the ending is what made up for some of the other lack luster moments in this novel. I really enjoyed that part. 

FINAL VERDICT- NOT FOR ME. 

Before They Find Us

Before they Find Us by Michelle Hansen- 4 STARS

Synopsis--
I’m going to make you wish you were dead.
Just a text. Seventeen-year-old Rebecca Hales tries not to worry. Probably a wrong number. Not really meant for her, and definitely not related to the crime she witnessed six years ago. Right?

Then two states away, a bomb goes off in her best friend's locker. Soon Ryan is labeled a terrorist and runs to the safest place he knows—Rebecca’s house in small-town Wyoming. It doesn’t take long for the FBI to show up asking questions. Rebecca lies, of course, and says she hasn’t seen him.

Now she's neck-deep in it with him, whatever "it" is. The only way out is to return to Vegas, where Ryan is a wanted man. The city of lies and illusion tests Rebecca’s wits as she struggles to find the person who framed Ryan and why.

Is Rebecca’s text linked to the bombing? And what does it have to do with a six year old murder? Rebecca needs to find out before she loses Ryan—and her own life.

*Netgalley provided a copy in exchange for an honest review.

Overall:Intriguing!

Characters: Ryan, and Rebecca 

Page Turner: YES

Series Cont.? No

Recommend if You Like…Running on Empty

Book Boyfriend: Ryan

Genre: Young Adult Love and Mystery

Sex Scenes: Not really. 

Overall- 

This was a great book! Just looking at the cover, I didn't think I would be interested. But don't judge this book by its cover! It was quite the romantic mystery! Ryan and Rebecca have a great relationship and wonderful chemistry. I must say this book had it all, there were plenty of plot twists and turn, and a wonderful and amazing friendship that blossoms into love. I absolutely loved the characters in the book. Beck and Ryan were really fun to get to know. Their relationship, regardless of circumstance, seemed easy going and full of love (even when the other didn't know it). I was a little skeptical that they would dance around their feelings the entire book, but was pleasantly surprised that their friendship, banter, and love for one another showed early on. I also liked the slew of other characters that they interacted with. I found Beck to be a really strong and loving person, fighting for the man she loved to the ends of the Earth. Every time some one tried to get her down, she fought back, and fought harder, such determination was really beautiful. 

The pacing of the book was also right on point. Each time I thought I had figured something out, a curve ball came at me and we switched gears. I was some what happy (morbidly so) that not everything was peachy keen and easy, that there was plenty of struggles and problems made this book all the more entertaining.  The constant gripping suspense kept me glued to the pages and I could not put this book down until I knew what happened! 

I found Ryan and Beck's relationship endearing and truly romantic. Their fierce loyalty and love for one another was really beautiful. The plot was amazing and I loved all the secondary characters all of whom grabbed my attention in one way or another.  This is for anyone who likes young adult romance with some mystery and action involved! 

Forever too Far By Abbi Glines

Forever too Far by Abbi Glines (Too Far Series #3) 3 STARS

Synopsis
Rush promised her forever... but promises can be broken.
Torn between his love for his family and his love for Blaire, Rush has to find a way to save one without losing the other. In the end one has to be more important. Letting go isn’t easy.
Blaire believed in her fairytale... but no one can live in a fantasy.
Her love for Rush and desire to have a family keep her believing that they can find a way for this to work. Until she has to make the right decision for her and the baby. Even if it breaks her heart.
Can they find the forever that they both want or has it all just gone... too far



Overall-
This was my least favorite of the series, mainly because of the things I didnt like, than the things  did. It felt more forced than it did a true final book and that was disappointing. But I loved Blair and Rush's love story and the conclusion of that, and their HEA. And admittedly, because Della and Woods' relationship is given away in this book, Im not as inclined as I would have been without, to read their story. Though I am interested in reading about Harlow. I liked her, and would like to see more of her. But really the middle of this book made it worthwhile, I LOVED seeing Blair happy and getting her perfect family with Abe and Captain.

Since this is the third book in the series, Im not going to go into the plot and characters as much this time since Ive already done that in the other two posts, and because this is a continuation of the other books though I will do quick ones of new characters, specifically Grant, Della, Woods Nanette and Harlow.

Cover - 
Rating: PG 13 
Overall: Pretty good
Characters:  Rush, Blair, Nanette, Harlow, Grant 
Page Turner: No
Series Cont.? Yes. 
Book Boyfriend: Rush 
Genre: New Adult 
Sex Scenes: Yes
Setting California and Florida 


What I didnt like- 
Personally, I felt like this beginning and end of this book were boring and not necessary. In fact I felt like this book was only dont because fans wanted another and it wasnt planned. And While I still love Blair and Rush, I was annoyed with some of the plot surrounding them.

So the last third of the book was all about these other characters, introductions and crossings.

For instance the nanette drama got old real fast in Book 1 AND Book 2. She is not a good character and in all honesty, I think its part of the reason the book never got a 5 from me, her drama seemed so out of place most of the time. I got it in he first book, but I REALLY wish she could have come around by now, I wanted to see her with Grant and to be happy.

Then I felt like the author added POVs and characters (Woods and Grant) (And Harlow and Della) just so she could do the spin offs. Dont get me wrong, I LOVE woods. I want him as my own. But I basically already know what happens, and I would have preferred to have just read his book and not had this portion of the book.

Then the Grant/Harlow/Nan drama- honestly, I feel bad for nanette, it seems like she gets the shit end of all the deals...and that really sucks. I am disappointed. I almost would have preferred it differently. Now while I like Grant, adding Harlow seemed like more trouble than its worth.

Also odd, Rush's mother is not in the book at all. I know she is supposed to not care, but not being in the book at all, to try to show off her new grandson even, felt weird and unusual.

The first third of the book- I didnt really like the drama at the LA house. I didnt understand why Nanette just couldnt get her shit together. Quite frankly this should have been Nanette, Rush and Blairs book and she should have gotten help and then come be a good sister to Rush. I wanted more for her and the author made her to be a bad guy over and over again. I also didnt like Kiro, and HATED reading all scenes with him in it. He disgusted me, which was the point yes, but I could have done without.

Grant

What made the book great though, was the middle of the book. Where Blair and Rush finally make everything perfect. They have the baby and get married (dont think Im spoiling much here) And thats really what made the book get 3 stars was their role in it. Generally speaking though this book disappointed me. I had hoped Nanette would grow more, and that the plot wouldnt feel so....unnecessary. But I loved Rush with the baby!!! Eeek. And the sensual scenes in this book were quite intense. So their relationship made it worth the read.

Harlow-Aw Harlow, I like her but feel like I didnt really get to know her. In fact there were times where I felt like her placement (and others) were simply there to generate storylines for the future for those characters...which I didnt appreciate. But regardless Im looking forward to the story of her and possibly Grant...

Grant-I liked Grant and I would really like to get know him better, and will definitely be reading his stories!