Forever Wild

Forever Wild By Magan Vernon - 3 STARS

Synopsis- After ONE WILD NIGHT in Vegas, publicist Valerie Wilder woke up next to a male stripper named Wild Wes. A trip to the court house should have solved the problem, but legalities forced them to go back to Chicago together to start the process. But the more Valerie and Wes get to know each other the more they realize their WILD HEARTS can't be tamed and they may be falling for each other. Even though Wes is THE WILD ONE Valerie can't resist taking some time on THE WILD SIDE, but when she finally realizes that she's WILD FOR YOU, things get even more complicated in the form of her former fling and a deal he made with Wes. Now the two have to figure out if they can stay forever WILD or if their Vegas nuptials are going to come to an end.

* A copy was provided by net galley in exchange for an honest review 


Overall- 
I enjoyed this serial book. Which is exactly up my alley and by an author I adore. There were a number of things I didnt care for. Specifically, I didnt understand their "insta" love moment. I also don't truly understand what Valerie looks like, other than she's big.  It REALLY bothers me that he weight (Thick, chancy, chubby, heavy) are repeated mentioned. I don't think its necessary to remind the reader that the girl is curvy. Not to mention, Im not even sure what you mean by curvy or thick (do you mean fat? do you mean voluptuous? Curvy implies not being stick thin, but lots of curvy girls are beautiful think Christina Hendicks or Beyonce, Anne Hathaway all of whom are considered curvy .) I also don't like being reminded, I like getting a picture myself and then sticking with it, in my mind Valerie is curvy and beautiful but not overweight, a girl who is beautiful but not in the typical way. 

I really love Valerie's personality. She is witty and sarcastic but honest and sincere. She seems so sure of herself (personality wise) and yet so unsure of her body and why men would want to be her (given her weight and prior experience with men). It fits in perfectly with today's society, where women frequently feel at odds with themselves, their life vs their body. 

I adored Wes, aside from some of his ridiculous yes ma'am and darlin moments I found him to be sweet and charming and very loving of Valerie. I did wonder a bit more as to what he saw in her that first night, which I got a glimpse of, but Im not sure that I understood his point of view. And thats more personal than anything else. In the end I found his behavior to be sweet and caring. 

I definitely got the sleaze impression from Max, and I think the way that Valerie and Wes deal with Max is really interesting and realistic. While Max was one wrench thrown into the mix, there were other issues Valerie and Wes dealt with, and each one seemed to fit in with the plot point. My only issue was the very last book, it felt like the party was out of place and awkward without a formal ending point and resolution. 

This reminds me though of some of the movies out there right now, where the couple ends up falling for one another and the ex is now interested because she is with someone else

In the end, this wasn't the best romantic comedy that I've read, but it kept me entertained. 

Earth and Sky

Earth and Sky by Megan Crewe- 4 STARS

Synopsis
Seventeen-year-old Skylar has been haunted for as long as she can remember by fleeting yet powerful sensations that something is horribly wrong. But despite the visions of disaster that torment her, nothing ever happens, and Sky’s beginning to think she’s crazy. Then she meets a mysterious, otherworldly boy named Win and discovers the shocking truth her premonitions have tapped into: that our world no longer belongs to us. For thousands of years, life on Earth has been at the mercy of alien scientists who care nothing for humans and are using us as the unwitting subjects of their time-manipulating experiments. Win belongs to a rebel faction seeking to put a stop to it, and he needs Skylar’s help to save the world and keep the very fabric of reality together. Megan Crewe’s latest tale takes readers on a mind-bending journey through time with a cast of unforgettable characters.

*received a copy from net galley in exchange for honest review. 

Overall-  
I really enjoyed this book! It was everything I hoped it would be! It is a true sci-fi young adult novel, mixing aliens and time travel, along with a side dystopian plot (for the aliens, which affects Earth). This book is FULL of action and adventure. There is never a dull moment!  We are introduced to the action pretty early on and from there its a roller coaster  Theres minor romance but I have high expectations for the next installment! Cant wait!  

World- Building--The world building in this book is excellent. One of the better books I've read recently where the author had me visualizing the world that Skylar and Win were traipsing through. I loved the different time periods and the technology that was used, because it really added a layer of depth and perception to this sometimes confusing book. I loved the way all the different aspects would merge and collide in different ways. And the author did such a good job of explaining things without dumbing it down too much, making it too simple or over detailing (which can happen!)

Plot--  The plot here really built over the course of the book. Even when the reader knew the general idea of the overall purpose of Win and Skylar the book continued through with momentum, constantly building the difficult plot point with ease. There were great twists, that were throughout the book. There was a slight romance that was built in, but it was very slight. And while the friendship between Win and Skylar grew, it didnt develop into a romance, which was slightly disappointing. However I have high hopes for the next book. 

The interesting thing about this particular book is the way the time travel and aliens collide.  This is an intense time travel story, so in some instances I found myself confused. Okay a lot of times. But if you just go with it and don't spend too much time on details it seems to work itself out. The biggest struggle for me was figuring out how changing the past changed the future...I get it, but I don't. Especially in some instances. But generally, I got the point and was able to follow. 

Characters--I really liked Skylar and Win Skylar, the protagonist and POV of the book was really interesting. I loved her instant state of paranoia. I felt like this gave the book more of a realistic vibe, because Skylar didnt just "go along" with everything Win said. She questioned him, and his story. She questioned everything from the start too so it didnt feel misplaced. And even though she was a little over the top at times, it was really very refreshing. I loved finding out more about Skylar's past. That was super interesting and added a level of depth and mystery. 

I liked Win from the start. Not because he was swoon worthy but because he seemed to care so much about Skylar and saving the planet. His appeal came from a deep sense of empathy that he clearly felt for the people on Earth., his sincerity was genuine and beautiful. And even though he wasn't always up front with these it seemed like her was trying to protect Skylar and continue with his mission to save the world. Which I respected. 

I did feel that some of the secondary characters were not developed enough, as I don't feel like I got the know them very well. 

From the Author-
the inspiration behind the story here: http://www.megancrewe.com/blog/?p=2498

major characters here:http://www.megancrewe.com/blog/?p=2522

Curse Defiers

Curse Defiers (Curse Keepers #3) Denise Grover Swank-

4 STARS

Synopsis-
For centuries the gods have waited—for the betrayal that will release them, for the traitors who will defend them, for the warrior who will challenge them. Now at long last the gate between the human and spirit worlds is open, and with it, an army of vengeful demons poised to swarm the earth. Only the Curse Keepers, Ellie Lancaster and Collin Dailey, can stop it…if they can break free from a tangled web of treachery, jealousy, and lies.
Torn between two men—her heart belongs to David, yet her soul is bound to Collin’s—Ellie no longer knows who she can trust. Demons slipping through the gate are leaving a trail of bodies in their wake, each death a chilling reminder of the power of the ancient spirits to bring humanity to its knees. Faced with an unimaginable future, Ellie realizes the time has come to turn her back on prophecy and choose her own destiny—even if it means defying the gods themselves.
In the thrilling conclusion to the Curse Keepers trilogy, humanity faces its final battle for survival!(
* Received a copy in exchange for an honest review

Overall: Adventurous and Romantic Fun!
Characters: Collin, Ellie and David
Page Turner: Yes
Series Cont.? Yes
Book Boyfriend: David
Genre: Paranormal Adventure and New Adult Romance.
Sex Scenes: No
Setting Virginia



Collin

Overall-
So Curse Defiers is much like all other Denise Grover Swank Books. And thats not just a good thing, its great! The great thing about this book is the character development and that the reader finally gets answers! The bad? This isn't the last book. So FAIR WARNING. Even though the blurb does say its the conclusion, it is not. More specifically, the publisher picked up 3 books so Grover did a trilogy with the publisher, and will continue with the series with, or without the publisher. This information, while important should have been provided in more detail. Because the ending of the book is CRAZY. I thought for sure there was an ending, a conclusion that would finally make everything come together. UGH But alas thats not what happened, and I actually docked stars for that. (RANT- this REALLY upset me that this was publicized as a trilogy when its not, and that little information is given on a "fourth book". In addition, there is no conclusion at the end, NONE! The blurb therefore is wrong! And that in and of itself makes me weary of the author, who I have stood by for years. END RANT)



Matthew Davis as David



In my objectiveness I rated this book based on the book itself, the writing, plot and characters.
The Plot is great, BUT its what I liked least in this book. While the development was finally coming together between the storyline and the characters, I was excited to find out the real reason for everything occurring and to see who Ellie picked in the end (TEAM COLLIN!). I was disappointed, while Ellie remains between Collin and David, she makes quite a few discoveries, about herself and the curse history, the creation. But everything gets a little confusing. I have more questions now, even though I have tons of answers. While I completely understand now why there is a need for another book(s), I certainly hope its only one more, and that it can really round out this series, ending with a great BANG!



Ellie

I like the added issues is this book, the Moreno issue finally comes to a head! This action packed, answer fueled book really dives into all the outstanding questions and surrounding plots that have led the book to the "grand finale". I mystified by Collin, who is seemingly selfless throughout this book, when he has a change of heart all of the sudden, which I can't say is a bad thing. Its a nice change of events to see how he and Ellie can really work together. And the three of them, holy cow. their work is amazing! It was really awesome to see how these three people could work together, and really start changing for the better. I enjoyed their dynamic and their entertaining banter. If anyone or anything annoyed me, it was certainly David, I found his unwavering love for Ellie to be kind of annoying. Not just because i like Collin but also because they haven't really known one another all that long, so for him to be so committed to her felt a little odd.

In the end, Im excited to see where this adventure will take us for the next book, (though annoyed) and hope that the next one clears everything else up!

Day 21

Day 21 by Kass Morgan (The Hundred #2) - 3 STARS

** You must read The 100 before reading this one.

Synopsis
No one has set foot on Earth in centuries -- until now.
It's been 21 days since the hundred landed on Earth. They're the only humans to set foot on the planet in centuries...or so they thought. Facing an unknown enemy, Wells attempts to keep the group together. Clarke strikes out for Mount Weather, in search of other Colonists, while Bellamy is determined to rescue his sister, no matter the cost. And back on the ship, Glass faces an unthinkable choice between the love of her life and life itself.
In this pulse-pounding sequel to Kass Morgan's The 100, secrets are revealed, beliefs are challenged, and relationships are tested. And the hundred will struggle to survive the only way they can -- together.

*I received a copy from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review

Overall: Great new take on Dystopian 
Characters:  Clarke, Glass, Belamy, Wells, Octavia 
Page Turner: Yes
Series Cont.? Yes
Book Boyfriend: hm...not sure yet... 
Genre:  Dystopian 
Sex Scenes: No

Overall

Generally I really liked this book. There were some things that threw me off, and I frankly liked the first one more, but overall I still liked and enjoyed this one.
First off, I really like Kass Morgan's writing style, its simple but beautiful.
I also really liked the new characters that were introduced. This book takes a completely different turn than the TV show, so for this book, it was a lot easier to read without constantly thinking how did they do this in the show,  or that was/not in the show hm... These thoughts plagued me throughout the first book, whereas this book was so different I had no show to compare to.
The new plot and characters were interesting and I found that I really liked them, however, there were a lot of things wrong with this book too. I didnt like the ending. Nope. Not one bit. (no spoiler here ii you read the 1st book). The only good part about the ending is that it reminded me of the TV show and whether more people are coming to Earth. The whole Earthborn thing at the end was weird, and awkward and seems like the author just didnt flesh out the issue enough.

While the world building in book 2 was better than book 1, which I mention in that review, Im still a little confused about some things that just seem out of place. (minor spoiler: for instance, I dont understand how it took Clarke and Bellamy two days to walk what later took him 6 hours to walk? huh?)  Or as another reviewer mentions what exactly is the Catalysm, and for that matter how the all call "it" the same name? The pacing of this book is much like the first one, its steady, with plenty of change in characters to keep the reader guessing and wanting more.

This time around I liked Glass a lot more. Her narrative became so much more interesting over the course of this book! I couldnt believe the things that people are willing to (or not do) to survive. The other characters all remained the same, I enjoyed them and their storyline and was happy to see some of the relationships progress. Clarke and Wells are still my favorite characters. And I still wish Octavia had more involvment (or her own chapters). I was disappointed that there was a lack of growth in the actual characters (between one another yes, but actual characters no) I was glad there was romance, because lets face it, nothing else happened in this book, but I wish the plot had really been thickened more, I feel like everything that happened occurred quite SLOWLY even though while reading the book it doesnt feel that way. The change in characters POV really throughs me off. Sometimes I like the change, its nice to get a different perspective (the ship versus land) BUT it really wasnt necessary to have all four voices, I really wish more action had occurred during this book. Really it didnt seem like anything happened considering its 300 + pages really more on Earth should have occurred...

It was so interesting to see Kass's take on humanity, shown in various settings and ways throughout this book, afterall thats really what this book is about, survival and humanity. And frankly, I like her take, its painful, but beautiful, and shows the reality and severity of these situations.

So, In the end, I liked this book, BUT it is not one of my favorites and honestly I wouldnt recommend it. Just because I enjoyed something while reading it doesnt make it good. This is a book/series for someone to read that is looking for a simple, easy, but enjoyable 1 day read, but it isnt going to blow your mind. Sorry.

Exiled

Exiled by Sophie Davis 4 STARS

**  You must read the Talented Series before this book!

Synopsis-
Kenly Baker is alone. TOXIC has been defeated. Her friends from the McDonough School for the Talented are scattered to the wind. Even Kenly’s only living family member cannot hide the scared teenager from those who wish to contain her. Because Kenly is one of the Created.
For her, it’s a future worse than death.
She travels across the Atlantic Ocean, to the slums of London. There, Kenly finds tentative acceptance among a group of outcasts. They have spent their enire lives dodging shadows, barely staying alive. Kenly thought she knew what horrors haunt the night, but her new companions reveal predators far more alarming than anything she’s ever faced. Suddenly, she is brutally aware of the dark side of humanity.
Kenly’s biggest concern was the UNITED trackers, who round up and capture the Created. But there are adversaries in this new world who are far more terrifying. And unfortunately for Kenly, now their sites are set on the Created.

*A Copy was provided by the author for an honest review

Overall: Great new storyline intertwining well loved characters with new ones!
Characters:  Kenly, Willa, James, Honora, Riley
Page Turner: Sometimes
Series Cont.? Yes
Book Boyfriend: James?
Genre:  Sci-Paranormal Romance with slight dystopian feel
Sex Scenes: Nope

Overall-
This book, like all the others is pretty fast paced with lots of action and twists and turns. I loved having the original team of characters mentioned and involved, (hopefully bringing together a final book in alternate POV's?) I was really impressed with this new world building that the author created. I too, like Kenly, never really considered how other countries saw or treated the Talented, so it was truly eye opening to see it work so differently and the way that people were treated. I was so intrigued by this dark and dangeous world and the characters, they had such a crazy back story, so different than what we had seen in the other Talented books. I really enjoyed this book, it was fast paced, action packed with a little bit of romance and a slight cliff hanger (nothing too major though!) If you are a fan of this series, this is a MUST read!

What I didnt like was that it felt too slow at times, I almost felt like there was too much world building by telling than showing and experiencing. Specifically, Kenly's intake of information, which at times felt overloading and annoying (but on point) seemed to serve as explaining the world in which Kenly fell into, rather than showing me the world and having her explore it, basically it felt like Kenly wasnt putting the pieces together properly, and timely. This got better after the first 15-20% of the book, when Kenly really got in to the thick of things. There were scenes that I was confused about, especially towards the end, when it seemed like everything was just thrown together. I didnt understand the ending at all, and found the beginning to lack in entertainment, it was quite dull at first at the world building stage (which is why I docked a star).

Generally though, this is an excellent companion type novel of Talented. Im not sure how the author would get to the next book of Talia without this one though, so it will be interesting to see where we go next, but one thing is certain, I cant wait!

Characters-

Kenly- I'm not really sure how I feel about Kenly, I really liked her in the other Talented books, I found her intriguing and mysterious. And honestly, I am glad she got her own story, her own book, because she was quite prominent at times to Talia. That said, I was more than a little frustrated with her at times. Considering she had been training at the school for years and with Talia/Donovan for a while, I felt like her Higher Reasoning Power should have been more spot on than it was. And granted she was thrown into a VERY different world than she was accustomed to, I didnt understand how she could so easily let her guard down ALL the time! I also got quite annoyed with her "holier than thou" mantra. The idea that she was invincible or better than everyone else was really annoying. On the other hand, I found her nativity matching her new world, and the love interest to be interesting. I loved learning about James and getting to know him. As always the author amazing created such mystery yet mesmerizing scenes of vulnerability and openness. I was in awe at times at her ability to weave such beautiful scenes together, so effortlessly it seems everything fits together. Kenly also seems to have a temper, which I find odd considering she is a higher reasoning mind, so she should know better, but she let it get to her regardless.

I do like Kenly though, I love her spirit, her fight and her endless amount of love and hope. I found her will to help those she cares about endearing, as she was willing to sacrifice quite a bit to save someone she loves on numerous occasions. I liked that her personality really shown throughout the book, I was never confused about how she felt or what she was thinking. She was always honest with herself, in an entertaining way too. I found her relationship with James, while predictable, still touching. She actually spent time getting to know him before truly falling for him, and even admitted that she knew she couldn't quite call it love yet. Overall, Kenly is another great strong female lead character and I look forward to her role in future books. One thing I love about Kenly that really shows off her Higher Reasoning Power is the way her brain works, the constant thinking and analyzing, her brain truly never shuts off. And over the course of the book I think she realizes that not everything is a problem to be solved in her heard but that she needs more.

James- Oh James. Where to start with this one. I couldn't get a good read on him at first (yes i know thats the point!) I wasn't sure if I would like him, and honestly, even though I like him now, I don't love him like I love Erik (he's hard to overcome). I liked James, that he had a tough exterior for a purpose. I like that Kenly had to peel back his layers, he didnt just reveal himself or his past for a pretty new girl. James was caring, and compassionate. He speaks through his action (or sometimes lack thereof). His bond with Kenly really blossoms over time and their relationship is much more than just skin deep.

Haze

Haze by Paula Weston (The Rephaim Book 2

* NOTE* You must read Book 1 before Book 2. 

Synopsis

"But what if we can’t find Jude?" 
He leans closer. His breath is warm on my ear. "We will."
"How can you be so sure?" I want to believe him so badly, but this is Rafa. The guy who’s all action and no plan. His smile is tired, knowing. An echo of a shared past I don’t remember. 
"Because I’m not smart enough to give up, and you don’t know how to." 
Gaby Winters’ nightmares have stopped but she still can’t remember her old life. Still can’t quite believe she is one of the Rephaim—the wingless half-angels who can shift from place to place, country to country, in the blink of an eye. That she was once the Rephaim’s best fighter. That demons exist. That Rafa has stayed. 
But most of all, she can’t quite believe that her twin brother, Jude, might be alive. 

And Gaby can’t explain the hesitancy that sidetracks the search for him, infuriates Rafa, and sends them, again, into the darkest danger.

*I received a copy from net galley in exchange for an honest review. 

Overall: Action and Sci-Fi - Angels and Demons 
Characters:  Rafa, Gaby, Maggie, Jason and so many more 
Page Turner: Yes
Series Cont.? Yes
Recommend if You Like…Angelfall
Book Boyfriend: Rafa 
Genre:  Sci-Fi / Angels  
Sex Scenes: No

Overall - AMAZING. I am SOOOOO upset I have to wait to read the other two books!! No wonder I originally had this book on my "read when entire series is out" shelf! This s one of those books you fall in love with, hard, and can't put it down no matter how hard you try! It was one of the most well written, beautiful intriguing mysterious and amazing books I've read. Much like angel fall, you cannot but fall in love with the characters in this book.  The characters are all swoon worthy and awesome, the dialogue is point on and the plot continues to twist and turn in all the right places. I could not have asked for a better book, a better 2nd book in a series, a better, anything!! I absolutely loved this fantastic book/series! It is a MUST read. 

Haze picks up right where Shadow leaves off, and not a moment later. And instantly you are brought right back into this world!  This book is full of more plots twists and revelations.  Weston really brings to life all the different locations that the characters go to, as well as the characters themselves! 

Rafa- AH- *deep breath* Rafa is swoon worthy, he is sexy, smoldering, dangerous, but completely and wonderfully charming.  Throughout Haze, Weston, brings little pieces of Rafa out, layer by layer, piece by piece showing readers a bit more of his soul. These glimpses of compassion and love, really bring an extra level of "warmth" to the relationship he has started with Gaby. 

I love Gaby and Rafa, their mysterious history, which is referenced throughout the books, and remains a mystery really brings this hot & cold relationship even further. I love everything about them, their ease with one another, their slow burn, its evident that Rafa cares much more than he lets on while Gaby, though confused, knows there is more to him than meets the eye (though thats not saying much). Their sexual tension is tantalizing, sizzling and HOT.

Gaby is a great character. She is so sure and yet unsure of herself all the same. Weston really wrote her quite amazingly. Gaby has depth, more so than many of the characters I read out there. She is strong and determined, but she is also untrusting and unsure of herself in her own skin. She is fearful even though she tries to show no fear.  She is constantly questioning those around her, and the acts of everyone.  Like the readers, Gaby keeps guessing with whom she can trust and whom she needs to be careful around, especially with the added issue of  not know her own history or where anyone's loyalties lie. 

This story focuses on trying to find out Gaby's past and finding Jude, her brother. The idea that he could still be alive, is terrifying but provides hope to all those who lost him. Gaby and Rafa are most vulnerable here.  and this storyline is truly interesting. 

There were a few things I didnt like. Specifically, I wish Gaby would have worked on her shifting, this seems so incredibly important but its as if she doesn't think about it at all, this is certainly something I would constantly think about if I were her. And trying to figure out the scar on my neck!  

Im most definitely intrigued as to the rest of the mystery that surrounds Gaby, will she get her memories back, or find out what happened 1 year ago, will she and Rafa be together, get back together, will she learn to shift (can she shift!), will they talk more to Dani, hows Jason really fit in....so many questions so few answers....but thats okay, Paula Westons writing is beautiful and amazing and I cannot wait to keep reading her books! 

Also, *minor spoiler** at one of the meetings with the demon Bel, he mentions Nathaniel to Gaby as being at the accident, potentially saving her... If I were Gaby, granted a demons word means little, but I would certainly have mentioned this to Rafa and really question some of these facts, next time I saw Nathaniel. I noticed of few of these moments. 

True Calling

True Calling by Siobhan Davis 2 STARS

Synopsis-
Planet Novo, nestled in space twelve hundred miles above the surface of the Earth, is the new home of 17 year old Cadet Ariana Skyee. Confused by the government-sanctioned memory erase and distressed at her impending forced marriage and motherhood, Ariana’s plans for the future are thrown into complete disarray.
As the traumatic events within her family life enfold, Ariana grows increasingly alarmed at the authorities apparent pre-occupation with her and feels progressively more isolated and alone.
Her growing feelings for fellow Cadet Cal Remus intensify as the recently announced pageant, ‘The Calling’, gets underway. Struggling to comprehend the continuous, inexplicable dreams of the mysterious Zane, discovering the past helps shape her future, with devastating personal consequences.

* A Copy was provided by netgalley for an honest review. 

Genre: Young Adult Dystopian/Science Fiction
Overall Thoughts:  Engaging but similar to a lot of other books out there
Characters: Ariana, Cal, Zane
Page Turner: Sometimes
Series Cont.? Yes (I think)
Recommend if You Like…A Million Suns, the selection 
Book Boyfriend: Cal and Zane, not sure who I like more.
Sex Scenes: No


Overall -

Halston Sage

So Im a little disappointed. I really wanted to like this book, I really did. In fact, I think the plot, with a little more fleshing out and a lot more dialogue could be pretty brilliant.  But unfortunately, I think the book should have undergone some severe beta reading.  I know how difficult it is to write a book, and that it a process, so much effort goes into any book. So I truly HATE giving negative reviews. Also, not sure I can really classify the book as a dystopian since its more romance than anything else.

My biggest issue with this book is the lack of dialogue and actual motion.  The plot of True Calling, while reminiscent of quite a few other dystopian novels, especially so in the beginning, (think Hunger Games meets the Selection meet fertility book.) But over the course of the book, the plot does get better and better, and I find myself interested in the plot. BUT there are a ton of flaws that really had me frustrated while reading. Admittedly, I was able to finish the book and intrigued. So this isn't a book to stay away from in that sense, rather it lacks maturity.

This is a young adult dystopian for someone who may not be familiar with Hunger Games and other popular dystopian books (say someone just starting off). The familiarity and resemblances are uncanny at first and very easy to spot, but as the plot builds and thickens, the likeness fades. What doesn't fade are the other problems. The main character Ariana, literally tells me everything. Nothing is really describes or shown to me, Im told. There almost NO dialogue throughout the entire book. Im told the characters talked about this that or the other, but the vast majority of the book is just Ariana's thoughts and feelings and senses. Yet there was also the added unnecessary twist of a love triangle.

Speaking of Ariana, while I enjoyed her character overall, I found her, especially towards the end to be really annoying. In the beginning, she was extremely distrustful, and wary of everyone. But over time it seemed almost as if she stopped questioning things, or stopped questioning them in the same way she used to. She also couldn't seem to put any of the pieces together, it was as if she just kept going along with things, without actually putting the different pieces together. I found that to be annoying, instead even her internal monologues were about the competition. And I found it odd that she fell into such an easy routine with Cal. Her behavior just seemed misplaced for someone so untrusting yet determined to be her own person.

Zane- I enjoyed his part a lot. It was my favorite part of the book. HOWEVER, with that said, I don't think that the placement of his small section made sense. In fact, I felt that it was completely misplaced. The author would have done better if she had incorporated more of Zanes voice through out the book, every few chapters put one in about Zane. He also didnt have to disclose who he was but it would have really helped with the flow of the book.  I also would have preferred the issue of the rebellion than that stupid pageant. Otherwise, I loved Zane. He was amazing. I absolutely loved his character he was a great addition to this book, and one of the main reasons I kept reading and would pick up book 2.

Cal- I don't know how I feel about Cal. I honestly can't decide how I feel. It seemed that at the beginning I loved him, he was kind, sweet, gentle, and I found him to be a great character. But his anger and violence over the course of the book started to get to me.  I really wanted to like him, but by the end of the book, I found myself untrusting and worried about Ariana.

There are quire a few things I would change about this story, outside of the writing. I really wish that the characters had behaved differently more than anything.

Extraction

Extraction by Stephanie Diaz - 4 STARS

Synopsis- "Welcome to extraction testing" Clementine has spent her whole life preparing for her 16th birthday when she'll be tested for Extraction, in the hopes of being sent from Kiel's toxic Surface to the much safer Core, where people live without fear or starvation. When she proves promising enough to be “extracted,” she must leave without Logan, the boy she loves. Torn apart from her only sense of family, Clem promises to come back and save him from brutal Surface life. What she finds initially at the Core is a utopia compared to the Surface—it’s free of hard labor, gun-wielding officials, and the moon's lethal acid—but life is anything but safe, and Clementine learns that the planet's leaders are planning to exterminate Surface dwellers—and that means Logan, too. Trapped by the steel walls of the underground and the lies that keep her safe, Clementine must find a way to escape and rescue Logan and the rest of the planet. But the planet's leaders don't want her running—they want her subdued.
* A Copy provided by Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. 

Overall: Young Adult Dystopian  
Characters: Clementine 
Page Turner: towards the end 
Series Cont.? Yes
Book Boyfriend:
Genre: Young Adult Dystopian
Sex Scenes: No
Setting Future....
recommend if you like...Divergent, Burn Out, Across the Universe 

Overall-

This book started off a little slow, and took time to really build...the first half of the book focuses on the characters and the world building before getting in to the real problem which was alluded to frequently, but isn't all that different from the other books in this genre. There were definitely problems in the book,  couldn't figure out why one character in particular was even needed, or why that issue was driven, period. It seemed pointless. There were a few times like this though where I was unclear on the direction or purpose of a plot point or character, sometimes it was revealed and sometimes I felt we were left hanging.  I think the similarities between Divergent and Across the Universe were a bit too much to make this a stand out, but its still a decent book!

Now I won't say it was all bad, those were just my gripes, there were some good points. There was a good amount of action at the end, and quite a few twists towards the end that I really didnt see coming! I knew something sinister was going on, of course, but I certainly didnt figure it out. I was pleasantly surprised with Clementines relationship with Logan, I appreciated that the author really built their friendship and love for one another over time and it had a true foundation. 

Characters-
Clementine-I found this character to be a little annoying at times. Based on her background having come from "above ground" and living in a harsh life she was quite naive and surprised by the behavior of those around her. I was irritated by some of the stupidity. But she was also strong when she needed to be, and rose above all else (reminds me a lot of Divergent though). Clementines best characteristic though is her loyalty to her friends. I really appreciated this aspect of her character, that no matter what happened, her thoughts ALWAYS went to Logan or to those she cared about. It was also refreshing that there was no love triangle. I think as Clementine develops more over the novels that I will like her more and more. 

Logan- I like Logan but I don't love him. I don't know why he needed to have a limp, or what it added to the book (unless he had gotten during his testing....but he didnt...now that would have been interesting!) I found him to be sweet, kind caring, charismatic. Except he was lacking in the strength department, and as a male lead, I tend to want someone who is strong, more so than mentally (and I don't mean intelligence) he seemed like a good person, someone to be friends with, but I wasn't entirely sure what type of romance Logan and Clementine really had. Perhaps over time it will develop, as this romance was not developed while their friendship was. 

Other Side Characters- (Beechy, Ariande, Oliver)- I really liked the different dynamic that Clem had with the different characters. Clem was her own person, and even when she was trying to fit in, the other characters really help mold her. I didnt feel like the characters were simply "there" , they actually added value to not only Clems character but to the book, the process, the plot, and moving things forward.  I was confuse by Beechy at first, and thought there might be a love triangle but the author went in a different direction, which I appreciated. Im most interested though in seeing where the series goes from here, it was evident from the ending that the characters had a continued story, but where it will go, is a little up in the air...

Kiss of Deception

Kiss of Deception by Mary E. Pearson - 3.5 STARS

Synopsis- In this timeless new trilogy about love and sacrifice, a princess must find her place in a reborn world.
In a society steeped in tradition, Princess Lia’s life follows a preordained course. As First Daughter, she is expected to have the revered gift of sight—but she doesn’t—and she knows her parents are perpetrating a sham when they arrange her marriage to secure an alliance with a neighboring kingdom—to a prince she has never met.
On the morning of her wedding, Lia flees to a distant village. She settles into a new life, hopeful when two mysterious and handsome strangers arrive—and unaware that one is the jilted prince and the other an assasin sent to kill her. Deception abounds, and Lia finds herself on the brink of unlocking perilous secrets—even as she finds herself falling in love.

* Received a copy from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review 

Overall: Adventure 
Characters: Lia, Rafe and Kaden
Page Turner: Towards the end yes
Series Cont.? Yes
Recommend if You Like…Graceling?
Genre: Young Adult Fantasy 
Sex Scenes: No 

Overall- 
This book was quite different from what I typically read. I am not one for the high fantasy/historical fiction type books (if you check my goodreads page you'll see I tend to dislike these book when I do read them), BUT, this book surprised me. The first 40-50% I was not truly committed. I was just reading to figure out which guy was the assassin and which guy was the prince. The author's writing didn't quite divulge this information until later (see note below). But I gotta say, wow. Im pretty impressed. I can't say I loved this book, but I enjoyed it. I think the beginning was much too slow for my liking and that the first half really could have gone by much more quickly. In fact, my guess is that book 1 and 2 could probably be merged into one if the author removed some of what I considered unnecessary. 

Regardless of that, I absolutely positively LOVED the characters in this book. Lia is not just an interesting character, she is feisty, with a fiery personality, independent and determined with a wild side. I also enjoyed Rafe and Kaden, as much as I hated being in suspense as she fell in love with one of them, I also found that this really worked well for the book in the end. We find out about halfway through who is who and the reveal to the reader is intriguing. 

I am so impressed with the author's writing style and ability. It is not simply the two guys, and multiple POV's that she had to juggle but the technique used. The writing didn't feel stiff or forced, or even awkward (unlike Aire, which was VERY hard for me to read). Instead this novel flowed very well. The pacing, as mentioned, feels a little off, mainly its too slow, until around the 50% mark when things really pick up. Thats really where the adventure starts. 

Lia's adventure is what really kept me intrigued, and glued to my kindle. Here is where the world building really begins as the world around Lia changes and reveals al new terrors. I enjoyed this aspect of the book a lot, constantly wondering if her feelings were going to evolve or change, but pleasantly surprised. She continued to be strong willed and feisty with her companions. 

I was also pleasantly surprised with the "magic" that she "may or may not" have. This aspect of the book was not discussed much at all in the beginning of the book, but as it continues on, the idea of "magic" is discussed more and more. I was little confused at certain parts and hope that explanations are provided more thoroughly in the next book. But overall, this plot twists with the Scholar, the stolen texts and her mother really added value to what could have been an otherwise okay book. 

I am looking forward to book 2 and where it will go. The ending here is a cliff hanger though, so I am disappointed in that!

NOTE--
The changing POV's was sometimes very confusing and annoying. I REALLY did not like that I was CONSTANTLY guessing who was who. I was frustrated and annoyed until it was revealed. Admittedly, in the end….this confusion worked to the readers advantage. I was truly impressed with the authors ability to write the POV in such a way as to confuse the reader yet make it so obvious at the same time. 

Five Ways to Fall

Five Ways to Fall by KA Tucker  4 STARS

Synopsis--
Purple-haired, sharp-tongued Reese MacKay knows all about making the wrong choice; she’s made plenty of them in her twenty-odd-years. So when her impulsive, short-lived marriage ends in heartbreak, she decides it’s time for a change. She moves to Miami with the intention of hitting reset on her irresponsible life, and she does quite well…aside from an epically humiliating one-night stand in Cancun with a hot blond bouncer named Ben. Thank God she can get on a plane and leave that mistake behind her.
Football scholarship and frat parties with hot chicks? Part of charmer Ben Morris’s plan. Blown knee that kills any hope of a professional football career? So not part of the plan. Luckily Ben has brains to go with his knockout looks and magnetism. After three long years of balancing law school with his job as a bouncer at Penny’s Palace, he’s ready to lead a more mature life—until his first day of work, when he finds himself in the office of that crazy, hot chick he met in Cancun. The one he hasn’t stopped thinking about.
If Ben truly were a smart guy, he’d stay clear of Reese. She’s the boss’s stepdaughter and it’s been made very clear that office romances are grounds for dismissal. Plus, rumor has it she’s trouble. The only problem is, he likes trouble, especially when it’s so good-looking…

Characters:  Ben, Mason, Reese, 
Page Turner: At times 
Series Cont.? This is the last of the series 
Recommend if You Like...any KA Tucker Books
Book Boyfriend: Ben
Genre: New Adult 
Sex Scenes:Yesish
Setting- Florida


Overall-

KA Tucker never ceases to amaze me. She has done it again, and brilliantly. I was hooked from the first chapter to the last word. Were there flaws, absolutely (no book is ever perfect!) but I was utterly in love with Five Ways to Fall. I think what I enjoyed most about this book was the realistic feel of many parts to this novel.  
Reese comes from a distraught background, abandonment from a girls father can leave a girl with quite a bit of baggage. From the start we see Reese struggle with her issues of abandonment, and the way she deals with this emotion seems quite appropriate, she marries the first guy that makes her think she finally caught someone who won't leave her...only to find him in bed with his ex. Real shocker there. Reese is a tough girl, with a big heart, but of course, on the heels of this bad relationship the last thing she needs is a new love interest. I enjoyed reading Reese's perspective most because her tough exterior and loving heart really battle one another in her daily life and is something that likely many people can relate to, being hurt by someone you love leaves you vulnerable and everyone deals with this differently, Reese put on her tough front. Reese's friends albeit annoying at times seemed to genuinely love her and attempted to help her find peace, even when she refused their assistance. KA Tucker has always had a knack of introducing side characters with lots of intrigue (obviously!), yet I never got the impression that the characters took over. (i.e. I didnt lose interest in Reese's story) I love KA Tucker's ability though to write such sarcastic and real conversations, she is amazing with her quirky and smarts remarks yet careful with the loving and beautiful moments as well. Very hard to do.

Ben was likable. I enjoyed his charismatic nature and the way his personality really lit up the room, without seeming as though  he was trying too hard. Even though I enjoyed Reese more than Ben, I found his story to be interesting, albeit cliche, and a bit "weird". Ben comes from a big family torn that is at odds with their parents (can't say too much more without giving it away). Ben feels the need to stay close to home, and found himself in the field of law. Now for a moment, I will digress, I was a little miffed with the authors writing of the law firm experience (a small law firm even), which I felt to be a bit odd, and not quite accurate. HOWEVER, it wasn't off track enough to detract from the overall story. I found Ben to be a bit over bearing and annoying at times, and his interest in Reese was confusing, but I nonetheless enjoyed their journey.


Ben and Reese's story comes together quite beautifully. A chance meeting in Mexico starts the story, but the two are reunited ironically and unintentionally in the work place. What starts as a haphazard meeting, and a mutual necessity ends up turning in to a great friendship and possible romance. The back story for Reese is really interesting, the ending is a bit unrealistic, where her entire history and family issues culminate, and I was pretty disappointed there but generally speaking the issues resonate and felt genuine. As for Ben's story, I felt his story was also a little off, but his emotions always remained so true, it was hard to not like his character. His back story took some getting used to, and as with Reese in the end is a bit overkill, but I liked the story overall. 

In the end, I really enjoyed this installment in the series. It may have had its downfalls, but as with all of KA Tucker's stories I was nonetheless blown away! 

Fighting For Infinity

Fighting for Infinity by Karen Amanda Hooper (Final Book in Trilogy) - 4.5 STARS 

Synopsis- Every moment, every lifetime, every decision—including her choice to erase—has led Maryah to this. 
Two outcomes are possible: an infinite happy-ever-after with her kindrily or the final severing of her relationship with Nathan. 
Closer to the enemy than ever before, Maryah unravels the diabolical plan that Dedrick has been manipulating into place for centuries. Revelations, secrets, and lies surface faster than Maryah can process. She doesn’t know who to trust, what to believe, or how to save her loved ones from the desolate future Dedrick is so close to executing. 
Guided by an enigmatic raven-haired prisoner, Maryah fights body and soul to save Nathan, her kindrily, and countless others. But is her love strong enough to alter a prophecy written in the stars?
*Netgalley provided a complimentary copy for an honest review

Overall: Action and Adventure with lots of paranormal 
Characters:  Maryiah, Nathan, Rina, Carson, Krista, etc.
Page Turner: Yes
Series Cont.? No
Book Boyfriend: Nathan
Genre: Paranormal Adventure 
Sex Scenes: No
Setting Arizona and somewhere unknown 

Overall-
Holy Wow! I freaking LOVED this book. This installment was action packed, intense, and rampant with questions, and answers to something bigger than I could have ever guessed! To be honest, I did not love book 2 of the series. I truly felt that book 1 and 2 could have been merged and that 2 wasn't really necessary, at all. That said, after reading the cliff hanger, I was dying to read book 3.  And boy was I thankful for that cliff hanger. After that I couldn't NOT read the last book (at least regarding this story line.) And the third book did not disappoint. I absolutely loved it. From the very beginning I was enthralled. I devoured this novel, with rapt attention. The story line picked up, all the pieces started fitting together. I loved how even the smallest of pieces, things that seemed trivial had meaning and a place at the end. I was truly surprised by a lot of the twists and turns. 

One of the great things about this book is that from the moment you start reading it, there is constant motion, and movement within the story line. Its not even that there is never a "dull" moment, but every moment has purpose which really comes to fruition through out this book. Each chapter we have new important information. I honestly, could not read fast enough! 

I loved that there was action, there was adventure, but the general "movement" of the plot didnt always need literal action, instead it was sometimes just facts that kept me intrigued and my interest piqued. Every second was enjoyable. 

There is a HEA here, with the option to continue, whether its with Maryiah or another character, there is plenty of potential, and unlike some books that have a sub story line, these characters have all impacted the main story of Maryiah and Nathan so much, that each character would make for a great standalone. (Especially Krista and Carson, or Dylan and Rina). 

Characters-
I really enjoyed this particular installment more than any of the others. This book was deep, personal, and held tons of actions.

While I was a little annoyed at the lack of action and direction of the characters from Book 2, that was definitely not the case in book 3. I was really surprised by how deep Maryiah gets and how emotional Nathan's storyline with her goes. I felt truly connected to them by the end of the book. 

I also loved loved loved getting to know some of the other characters, like Rina, and Krista and Carson. These characters all touched me in different ways for different reasons. At first I was weary of Rina, I didnt know what to think, how to feel about her, and her connection but by the end of the book, I found myself really falling for her story and connected to her emotional turmoil. 
Krista and Carson are by far one of my favorite couples of all time. The author did a really amazing job of showing how different couples cope and love one another, which is most certainly appreciated. 

What I didnt Like-
There isn't much to say on this point. But I was disappointed with the lack of explanation during Maryiah's learning experience. I felt like the entire book was leading up to that point (and the ending) but then there was hardly any explanation on how she learned to harness power.