MY TEMPLATE FOR REVIEWING (AND REMEMBERING) WHAT I READ

Hello Bookworms, and happy Sunday!

It is a warm, beautiful, sunny summer day where I am but that doesn't mean that I don't have bookish things to do!

Today I wanted to share with you the template that I created to help me when I am writing a review, and when I finish a book so that I remember what I read if the next book in the series isn't due out for another few months (or years... like Outlander!)

Feel free to take and use or share this as you want. Make it your own by adding or deleting items, or use it as is. I print out blank forms and write as I read. Once I finish the book, I'll then type it all up on the template on the computer so I have it at my fingertips all neat and nice.

Book Summary for Review

Let me know in the comments below what you think, and what you like or would change.

Happy Reading!
Laura

BIRTHDAY BOOK HAUL!

What's up, bookworms - today I share with you the books that I got for my birthday. Enjoy!

Happy Reading,
Laura

Orange is the New Black Tag!

Hey bookworms!

Today I did the Orange is the New Black tag that Little Red Reader tagged me in... come check it out!

Happy Reading,
Laura

REVIEW {46} Nowhere but Here by Katie McGarry

NOWHERE BUT HERE
AUTHOR: Katie McGarry
SERIES: Thunder Road [Book #1]
PUBLICATION INFO: Harlequin Teen | RELEASE DATE: May 26th 2015
CATEGORY: Young Adult, Contemporary, Romance, Motorcycle Clubs, First Love, Four Star Rating
ACQUISITION: Own | EDITION: Hardcover; First Edition, 496 pages
RATING: 4 STARS | GOODREADS RATING: 4.06/5.00
ADD TO GOODREADS

WHAT IT'S ABOUT: An unforgettable new series from acclaimed author Katie McGarry about taking risks, opening your heart and ending up in a place you never imagined possible.

Seventeen-year-old Emily likes her life the way it is: doting parents, good friends, good school in a safe neighborhood. Sure, she's curious about her biological father—the one who chose life in a motorcycle club, the Reign of Terror, over being a parent—but that doesn't mean she wants to be a part of his world. But when a reluctant visit turns to an extended summer vacation among relatives she never knew she had, one thing becomes clear: nothing is what it seems. Not the club, not her secret-keeping father and not Oz, a guy with suck-me-in blue eyes who can help her understand them both.

Oz wants one thing: to join the Reign of Terror. They're the good guys. They protect people. They're…family. And while Emily—the gorgeous and sheltered daughter of the club's most respected member—is in town, he's gonna prove it to her. So when her father asks him to keep her safe from a rival club with a score to settle, Oz knows it's his shot at his dream. What he doesn't count on is that Emily just might turn that dream upside down.

No one wants them to be together. But sometimes the right person is the one you least expect, and the road you fear the most is the one that leads you home.

MY THOUGHTS: This one has been compared to the TV Show Sons of Anarchy, but having never seen the show, I cannot offer my opinion on that.

What I can do however; is tell you that if you loved McGarry's Pushing the Limits series as much as I did (Which is a whole freaking lot!) then you will love this first entry in the Thunder Road series. It has all the bad boy yumminess, flawed characters, and a whole lot of anxiety-inducing action to keep  with Julie Kagawa (double-freaking-awesomeness!) and while I knew I'd read Nowhere But Here, it wasn't until after I heard Katie speak that I got super pumped for this book, and decided that I was going to buy it instead of waiting for a copy from the library. These books are ones that I can see myself rereading in the future.

What I love about Katie's books is that she isn't afraid to take her characters anywhere she wants them to go - whether that puts them in danger or a dangerous downward spiral - she will have you laughing, crying, and screaming page after page at characters so real that they feel like they're your friends in real life.

For me, I had a little trouble getting into Emily's character at the start of NBH. She was so innocent and naive, so trusting and believing in her parents that she was completely ignorant to an entire other part of her life... that included her bio-dad. I came to care for Emily as the chapters flew by, and by the end of the book I was definitely happy to see the person she became over the course of the book.

The whole premise of the book, being based around a motorcycle club, was a refreshingly new idea that I fully embraced and was very curious about. While seeing Katie speak, she explained how she had actually spent time with a real motorcycle club - to remove the stigma that is associated with them. Not all clubs are bad, illegal, or gangs - and that is what she proved with this book.

I was not expecting the big secret of the book to end up being what it was. It was an awesome curve ball that she threw, and I think it was awesome the way the whole story was centered around this big secret, and the whole time I was thinking how this secret is being so over-hyped and it probably won't even be that big of  a secret, but yes, it is quite a doozy - and the consequences are dire.

Overall, I fell in love with a little town called Snowflake, Kentucky and the Reign of Terror Motorcycle Club, and all of the characters that I got to meet and spend time with. I highly recommend this book to anyone who loves contemporary stories, romance done well, and some seriously sexy bad boys you can't help but fall for too.

NEXT BOOK IN THE SERIES:  Walk the Edge | Expected Publication Date: March 2016

OTHER BOOKS BY KATIE MCGARRY: Pushing the Limits | Dare You To | Crash Into You | Take Me On | Crossing the Line | Breaking the Rules | Chasing Impossible

SIMILAR READS: Never Always Sometimes by Adi Alsaid | Jesse's Girl by Miranda Kenneally | The Lies About the Truth by Courtney C. Stevens | Another Little Piece of my Heart  by Tracey Martin | What You Left Behind by Jessica Verdi

Happy Reading!
Laura

My Top 5 "If I were going to the beach" Reads!

What's up guys! Check out the 5 books that I'd take with me IF I were going to the beach...

Don't forget to let me know what books you'd take :)

Happy reading!
Laura

BOOK HAUL!!!

Hey bookworms!

Here's my latest book haul; hope you enjoy!

Happy Reading!
Laura

HOW TO: READ SEVERAL BOOKS AT ONCE

Hey Bookworms!

Today I wanted to share with you my tips and tricks for reading multiple books at once. 

Now, this isn't for everyone. Some people can only handle one book at a time, and that's just fine! Sometimes that is all that I can do. But on average I tend to read at least two books at the same time, however; I have been known to read three or four. So here are some tips to help ease into multiple book reading - if you choose to do so.

CHOOSE BOOKS OF DIFFERENT GENRES.

I do not recommend reading similar themed books if you are going to read more than one book at a time. A typical choice of multiple books for me would be 1 adult novel and 1 young adult novel. Most of the adult fiction that I read is historical fiction/contemporary/romance or paranormal/sci-fi/fantasy so for the most part it doesn't really impact my young adult choice. If I choose to read a contemporary adult fiction though, I will skip over a contemporary or romance in young adult. You don't want to burn yourself out or get confused on what is happening between the stories. 

READ ONE PHYSICAL BOOK AND ONE EBOOK (AND/OR AUDIOBOOK).

I have an easier time dividing my time between books when one is a physical copy and one is on my iPad. I will devote daytime to the physical copy, and then at night I will devote that time to what is on my iPad. This way I don't get sucked into one book more than the other. 

TAKE NOTES.

One way to help keep story lines straight is to take notes. I keep a notebook with my physical book, and jot down what happens every few chapters, or if there is something that I think was important. I don't always remember to take notes so I will at least try to at the end of the book, gather my notes and thoughts before I write my review. On an ereader it is easier to make notations right in the text and go over what you've highlighted at the end. This way you can always refresh yourself if need be  - plus it's a great way to remember what happened once you get further in a series.

IF YOU CANT DO IT - TAKE IT DOWN TO ONE BOOK - AND DON'T FEEL BAD.

If you end up not being able to read two books at the same time, it's okay. Don't beat yourself up if it's just too much. Choose the one that you are most connected to, and finish it up. If you still feel like you want to finish up the other book once you're done - go for it! But don't stress if you have completely disconnected from the 2nd book. I've found that if I set a book down and don't end up reading it again right away, I will try again a few months later and will have a better chance at finishing it. Not all books appeal to us at the time that we tell ourselves to read it. Sometimes we have to wait until we have clearer minds or are really in the mood for that genre of book. I will go through phases where I can't get enough contemporary/romance, and then there will be times were I'll go months without reading one. It all depends on your mood and mindset.

I hope this had some tips to help you out, if you've decided to try reading more than one book at once. Again - it isn't for everyone, or sometimes it isn't the right time for more than one. And don't confuse a looming reading slump with your desire to read several books. Good luck!

Happy Reading!
Laura

COVER REVEAL | EVERY LAST BREATH by Jennifer L. Armentrout

We are so excited to bring you the Cover Reveal for EVERY LAST BREATH, the hotly anticipated conclusion to the Dark Elements trilogy from #1 New York Times bestselling author Jennifer L. Armentrout!! EVERY LAST BREATH is a Young Adult Paranormal being published by Harlequin Teen and is a part of Jennifer L. Armentrout’s The Dark Elements Series. It is being released on July 28^th, 2015. Pre-order EVERY LAST BREATH and then be sure to read the first books in this amazing series before its release!

Amaz on ** Barnes and Noble ** iBooks ** IndieBound ** Kobo ** BAM

  EVERY LAST BREATH Synopsis: Some loves will last 'til your dying breath Every choice has consequences—but seventeen-year-old Layla faces tougher choices than most. Light or darkness. Wickedly sexy demon prince Roth, or Zayne, the gorgeous, protective Warden she never thought could be hers. Hardest of all, Layla has to decide which side of herself to trust. Layla has a new problem, too. A Lilin—the deadliest of demons—has been unleashed, wreaking havoc on those around her…including her best friend. To keep Sam from a fate much, much worse than death, Layla must strike a deal with the enemy while saving her city—and her race—from destruction. Torn between two worlds and two different boys, Layla has no certainties, least of all survival, especially when an old bargain comes back to haunt them all. But sometimes, when secrets are everywhere and the truth seems unknowable, you have to listen to your heart, pick a side—and then fight like hell… “Armentrout is a major talent…I just can’t stop reading!” --New York Times bestselling author Gena Showalter “Armentrout works her magic with swoon-worthy guys and a twist you never see coming.” --#1 New York Times bestselling author Abbi Glines on White Hot Kiss

And we have a surprise for you! The first books in the series have been given a new look too!!

Don't miss the previous titles in The Dark Elements Series-now with new covers! Readers interested in downloading the new cover jackets for their previously purchased Dark Elements Series titles, can download them HERE!

For best results when downloading the new cover jackets:

• Print on 8.5x14" (Legal paper)
• Use landscape or horizontal setting = 8.5" tall x 14" wide
• Print at 100% scale or "actual size"
• Print with the image centered on page
• Fold and trim to fit

Amazon ** Barnes and Noble ** BAM ** iBooks ** IndieBound ** Kobo ** Walmart

  WHITE HOT KISS synopsis: One kiss could be the last. Seventeen-year-old Layla just wants to be normal. But with a kiss that kills anything with a soul, she's anything but normal. Half demon, half gargoyle, Layla has abilities no one else possesses. Raised among the Wardens—a race of gargoyles tasked with hunting demons and keeping humanity safe—Layla tries to fit in, but that means hiding her own dark side from those she loves the most. Especially Zayne, the swoon-worthy, incredibly gorgeous and completely off-limits Warden she's crushed on since forever. Then she meets Roth—a tattooed, sinfully hot demon who claims to know all her secrets. Layla knows she should stay away, but she's not sure she wants to—especially when that whole no-kissing thing isn't an issue, considering Roth has no soul. But when Layla discovers she's the reason for the violent demon uprising, trusting Roth could not only ruin her chances with Zayne…it could brand her a traitor to her family. Worse yet, it could become a one-way ticket to the end of the world.

Amazon ** Barnes and Noble ** iBooks ** IndieBound ** Kobo ** BAM

  STONE COLD TOUCH Synopsis: Every touch has its price Layla Shaw is trying to pick up the pieces of her shattered life—no easy task for a seventeen-year-old who’s pretty sure things can’t get worse. Her impossibly gorgeous best friend, Zayne, is forever off-limits thanks to the mysterious powers of her soul-stealing kiss. The Warden clan that has always protected her is suddenly keeping dangerous secrets. And she can barely think about Roth, the wickedly hot demon prince who understood her in ways no one else could. But sometimes rock bottom is only the beginning. Because suddenly Layla’s powers begin to evolve, and she’s offered a tantalizing taste of what has always been forbidden. Then, when she least expects it, Roth returns, bringing news that could change her world forever. She’s finally getting what she always wanted, but with hell literally breaking loose and the body count adding up, the price may be higher than Layla is willing to pay… "Constantly entertaining...the narrative sizzles with as much tension as romance." —Kirkus Reviews on White Hot Kiss

And the Prequel Novella, BITTER SWEET LOVE...

 

Ama zon ** Barnes and Noble ** iBooks ** BAM ** Kobo

  BITTER SWEET LOVE Synopsis: In a sizzling prequel novella to her new series The Dark Elements, #1 New York Times bestselling author Jennifer L. Armentrout draws readers into the extraordinary, irresistible world of Wardens and demons. Dez wasn't just Jasmine's crush. A gargoyle Warden like Jas, he helped her come to terms with her destiny—fending off demons and maintaining the balance between good and evil. He was her everything…right until the moment he disappeared without a trace. It didn't help that Jas's father had just announced that she and Dez would one day be mated. Hard not to take that personally. And now he's back, three years older, ten times hotter, ready to pick up exactly where they left off. But Jas isn't taking that risk again. Dez has seven days to meet all her conditions and earn back her trust. Seven days filled with terrifying danger and sweet temptation. Seven days to win her heart—or shatter it all over again… "With her signature flare for combining humor, romance and action, Armentrout weaves a fast- paced read that will have readers' hearts racing in more ways than one. Like Armentrout's previous heroines, Jasmine is fun and full of attitude, while Dez is as snarky as he is sexy. This is a must read for new and old fans alike!" -RT Book Reviews   Jennifer L. Armentrout/J.Lynn Bio: # 1 NEW YORK TIMES and USA TODAY Bestselling author Jennifer lives in Martinsburg, West Virginia. All the rumors you’ve heard about her state aren’t true. When she’s not hard at work writing. she spends her time reading, working out, watching really bad zombie movies, pretending to write, and hanging out with her husband and her Jack Russell Loki. Her dreams of becoming an author started in algebra class, where she spent most of her time writing short stories….which explains her dismal grades in math. Jennifer writes young adult paranormal, science fiction, fantasy, and contemporary romance. She is published with Spencer Hill Press, Entangled Teen and Brazen, Disney/Hyperion and Harlequin Teen. Her book Obsidian has been optioned for a major motion picture and her Covenant Series has been optioned for TV. She also writes adult and New Adult romance under the name J. Lynn. She is published by Entangled Brazen and HarperCollins.

Website | Twitter | Facebook | Jennifer L. Armentrout Goodreads | EVERY LAST BREATH Goodreads | STONE COLD TOUCH Goodreads | WHITE HOT KISS Goodreads | BITTER SWEET LOVE Goodreads

REVIEW {45} THE BEGINNING OF EVERYTHING

The Beginning of Everything
By: Robyn Schneider
Published By: Katherine Tegen | August 27th, 2013
Edition: EBook | Library Loan
My Rating: 2.50/5.00 | Goodreads Rating: 3.82/5.00
ADD TO GOODREADS

WHAT IT'S ABOUT: Golden boy Ezra Faulkner believes everyone has a tragedy waiting for them—a single encounter after which everything that really matters will happen. His particular tragedy waited until he was primed to lose it all: in one spectacular night, a reckless driver shatters Ezra’s knee, his athletic career, and his social life.

No longer a front-runner for Homecoming King, Ezra finds himself at the table of misfits, where he encounters new girl Cassidy Thorpe. Cassidy is unlike anyone Ezra’s ever met, achingly effortless, fiercely intelligent, and determined to bring Ezra along on her endless adventures.

But as Ezra dives into his new studies, new friendships, and new love, he learns that some people, like books, are easy to misread. And now he must consider: if one’s singular tragedy has already hit and everything after it has mattered quite a bit, what happens when more misfortune strikes?

Robyn Schneider’s The Beginning of Everything is a lyrical, witty, and heart-wrenching novel about how difficult it is to play the part that people expect, and how new beginnings can stem from abrupt and tragic endings.

LIKES

• How Ezra changed over the course of the novel.
• Toby's character. He didn't let his personal tragedy ruin his life. He is completely confident in who he is.
• The writing; Schneider is a good author.

DISLIKES

• Cassidy Thorpe.
• Ezra and Cassidy's relationship.
• What happens to Cooper.
• The End.
• All of Ezra's old friends - the jocks/song squad.
• Comparisons to The Great Gatsby.
• Ezra's entire book-long Pity Party.
• Cassidy's "personal tragedy".

MY THOUGHTS: Upon initially finishing this book, I gave it a 4 star rating. I couldn't write the review immediately though, I needed time to digest what I'd just finished reading. Over the past day or two, I've decided that this book is not a 4 star for me. In fact, I am bumping it all the way down to a 2.5, which pains me to do. I did find some enjoyment in this story, and I did enjoy portions of it. However, I did not really like or love enough of it to warrant a higher rating.

We start out the book learning about Ezra's past friendship with Toby Ellicott, and how it fell apart after a day at Disneyland when they were on a roller coaster and someone a few seats up on the train stood up and was beheaded. Toby caught the severed head. This was his 'personal tragedy'. Throughout the book, Ezra is fixated on tragedy, and how everyone has a personal tragedy that completely changes the course of their life. This was an interesting concept, but ultimately set up the book for Ezra really to just pity himself the whole time.

There are a lot of references throughout the book towards F. Scott Fitzgerald's The Great Gatsby. I've read the book a couple of times and seen both of the movies, and I must say that I cannot figure out the meaning of it. It doesn't seem like a parallel to the story, though I can pick out a few things that may seem similar. Ultimately, I think it's just Ezra's dog calling him 'Old Sport' in his mind. Or Ezra thinking he is, anyway. 

As the story goes on, I started to enjoy the building of Ezra and Cassidy's relationship. I really thought that it was going to be one of those epic love stories and that they would save each other. But when I started really thinking about it after I finished the book, I realized that their relationship sucked! First off, Ezra fell in love with her really fast. Which is okay to a point because there were some really cute one-liners about how beautiful she was in his eyes. It felt real and believable. But once they were together and I really got to see how big of a train wreck Cassidy is, it started to go downhill for me.

What I liked the most is how Ezra started seeing that popularity didn't equal lifelong friendships and loyalty. He lost his friends and girlfriend but gained a group of really great and loyal friends - including Toby, whom he ditched all those years ago. This is a wonderful book when it comes to friendship and realizing that sometimes the people you think are your friends - aren't. 

WOULD I RECOMMEND THIS BOOK? I think that this book would really resonate with some people. It was likeable and had tons of funny and sweet moments while also exploring heavier topics like grief, death, and losing the person that you once were - but finding a new, better version of yourself.

Happy Reading!

REVIEW {44} - SILVER SHADOWS by Richelle Mead

SILVER SHADOWS
Series: Bloodlines - Book #5
Author: Richelle Mead
My Rating: 3.50/5.00 | Goodreads Rating: 4.40/5.00
ADD TO GOODREADS

WHAT IT'S ABOUT: Sydney Sage is an Alchemist, one of a group of humans who dabble in magic and serve to bridge the worlds of humans and vampires. They protect vampire secrets—and human lives.

In The Fiery Heart, Sydney risked everything to follow her gut, walking a dangerous line to keep her feelings hidden from the Alchemists.

Now in the aftermath of an event that ripped their world apart, Sydney and Adrian struggle to pick up the pieces and find their way back to each other. But first, they have to survive.

For Sydney, trapped and surrounded by adversaries, life becomes a daily struggle to hold on to her identity and the memories of those she loves. Meanwhile, Adrian clings to hope in the face of those who tell him Sydney is a lost cause, but the battle proves daunting as old demons and new temptations begin to seize hold of him. . . .

Their worst fears now a chilling reality, Sydney and Adrian face their darkest hour in this heart-pounding fifth installment in the New York Times bestselling Bloodlines series, where all bets are off.

LIKES

• Sydney and Adrian's love for each other.
• Hopper - the dragon!
• Sydney and Adrian's relationship status - at the end of the book.
• How fast paced and full of action this book (and ultimately the entire series) is.
• How strong the bond of friendship is between Jill, Angelina, Eddie, Sydney, Neil, and Adrian. In a world where dhampirs and vampires do not have relationships (friendship or otherwise) with Alchemists, the way they've banded together and the loyalty towards each other is insane!
• Sydney's magic. I love this aspect of the book, I truly do!
• Carly Sage.
• Rowena.
• Jill's bond with Adrian - and her maturity.
• Jill and Eddie. Please, get together! I'm OTP'ing it! Jeddie? 
• Diversity in characters and lifestyles.

DISLIKES

• The Re-education center and the Alchemists.
• Queen Tatiana's voice in Adrian's head. (Curious to see what that's all about.)
• Adrian's negative Spirit attributes.
• Some parts that seem to lag and drag.
• The Alchemists. Did I already mention them? I hate them.

MY THOUGHTS: 

*I cannot promise that this is a spoiler-free review. If you haven't read the first 4 books of the series, I recommend not continuing with this review!*

 I have been obsessed with the Vampire Academy world from the first page of Vampire Academy, and when I found out that there was a spin-off series, it made my little vampire-loving heart leap with joy! So far, I've loved Sydney and Adrian's story, told throughout the Bloodlines series.With  every book, I've closed the cover and had the worst book hangover - desperately awaiting the next book to come out.

While I did enjoy the continuation of the story, I felt that this one was just a little stagnant. At the end of The Fiery Heart, Sydney was taken by the Alchemists for re-education, and Adrian is left fighting to find her. But in his spirit-wielding way, Adrian falls back into old habits at the start of Silver Shadows, and Sydney is wasting away in a dark cell, drugged until she admits she sinned, and is willing to undergo re-education to find her way back to the light. She is in this dark place both physically and emotionally - as it was her own sister, Zoe, who betrayed her, and her father who committed her to this place. She leaves her hopes of rescue in Adrian - who is back at Court, after his mother came to get him and bring him back after Jill contacted her. Back at Court, Adrian teams up with Nina - another Spirit user - who joins him in his drinking escapades, and makes sure he gets back to his room. She also has feelings for him.

Mostly, this book just starts to tie up the loose ends from the series, getting ready to end it all in just one more book.

While it ended on a cliffhanger in true Richelle Mead style, I found large chunks of this book leaning towards boring. Even though we get the typical unexpected - like what Sydney and Adrian do in the end - that I can say that I wasn't expecting AT ALL - for the most part it's Sydney in re-education, confirming what we already know - that she is a bad ass - and Adrian falling back into old drinking patterns and we follow him around Court while he parties. I don't feel like a lot happens, which I suppose being the last book before the finale, it can happen. 

I still love Mead's writing style, and her characters feel like they are really some of my BFFs. Her characters have such depth and emotion that it's hard not to get invested in them. Even though this was not one of my favorite books in the series, I still fully enjoyed it and I am so sad that when I read The Ruby Circle, that this series will be finished. I don't think I am ready for that!

Would I recommend it? Obviously, if you've read the first 4 books then YES you need to read it!

Happy Reading!

EXCITING ANNOUNCEMENT + MARCH LIBRARY HAUL [video]

Hey bookworms!

Happy Saturday, and I hope everyone has a wonderful weekend! Today I'm sharing exciting news with my YouTube channel about my online shop, The Bookish Nook, as well as sharing my library haul books.

Check it out, and don't forget to subscribe to my channel so you can stay up to date with my latest videos!

Happy Reading!
Laura

THE WITCH OF PAINTED SORROWS RELEASE DAY LAUNCH

  We are absolutely captivated by THE WITCH OF PAINTED SORROWS and so excited to bring you the Release Day Launch for M.J. Rose's amazing new novel. THE WITCH OF PAINTED SORROWS is a historical gothic romantic suspense published by Atria, an imprint of Simon & Schuster. Check out the excerpt below, buy a copy for yourself (and a friend!), then check out the giveaway M.J. Rose is holding to celebrate the release!!  

Amazon ** Barnes and Noble ** iBooks ** IndieBound

  Excerpt: Four months ago I snuck into Paris on a wet, chilly January night like a criminal, hiding my face in my shawl, taking extra care to be sure I wasn’t followed. I stood on the stoop of my grandmother’s house and lifted the hand-shaped bronze door knocker and let it drop. The sound of the metal echoed inside. Her home was on a lane blocked off from rue des Saints-Pères by wide wooden double doors. Maison de la Lune, as it was called, was one of a half dozen four-story mid-eighteenth- century stone houses that shared a courtyard that backed up onto rue du Dragon. I let the door knocker fall again. Light from a street lamp glinted off the golden metal. It was a strange object. Usually on these things the bronze hand’s palm faced the door. But this one was palm out, almost warning the visitor to reconsider requesting entrance. The knocker had obsessed me ten years before when I’d visited as a fifteen-year-old. The engravings on the finely modeled female palm included etched stars, phases of the moon, planets, and other archaic symbols. When I’d asked about it once, my grandmother had said it was older than the house, but she didn’t know how old exactly or what the ciphers meant. Where was the maid? Grand-mère, one of Paris’s celebrated courtesans, hosted lavish salons on Tuesday, Thursday, and many Saturday evenings, and at this time of day was usually upstairs, preparing her toilette: dusting poudre de riz on her face and décolletage, screwing in her opale de feu earrings, and wrapping her signature rope of the same blazing orange stones around her neck. The strand of opal beads was famous. It had belonged to a Russian empress and was known as Les Incendies. The stones were the same color as my grandmother’s hair and the high- lights in her topaz eyes. She was known by that name—L’Incendie, they called her, The Fire. We had the same color eyes, but mine almost never flashed like hers. When I was growing up, I kept checking in the mirror, hoping the opal sparks that I only saw occasionally would intensify. I wanted to be just like her, but my father said it was just as well my eyes weren’t on fire because it wasn’t only her coloring that had inspired her name but also her temper, and that wasn’t a thing to covet. It wasn’t until I was fifteen years old and witnessed it myself that I understood what he’d meant. I let the hand of fate fall again. Even if Grand-mère was upstairs and couldn’t hear the knocking, the maid would be downstairs, organizing the refreshments for the evening. I’d seen her so many nights, polishing away last smudges on the silver, holding the Baccarat glasses over a pot of steaming water and then wiping them clean to make sure they gleamed. Dusk had descended. The air had grown cold, and now it was beginning to rain. Fat, heavy drops dripped onto my hat and into my eyes. And I had no umbrella. That’s when I did what I should have done from the start—I stepped back and looked up at the house. The darkened windows set into the limestone facade indicated there were no fires burning and no lamps lit inside. My grandmother was not in residence. And neither, it appeared, was her staff. I almost wished the concierge had needed to open the porte cochère for me; he might have been able to tell me where my grandmother was. For days now I had managed to keep my sanity only by thinking of this moment. All I had to do, I kept telling myself, was find my way here, and then together, my grandmother and I could mourn my father and her son, and she would help me figure out what I should do now that I had run away from New York City. If she wasn’t here, where was I to go? I had other family in Paris, but I had no idea where they lived. I’d only met them here, at my grandmother’s house, when I’d visited ten years previously. I had no friends in the city. The rain was soaking through my clothes. I needed to find shelter. But where? A restaurant or café? Was there one nearby? Or should I try and find a hotel? Which way should I go to get a carriage? Was it even safe to walk alone here at night? What choice did I have? Picking up my suitcase, I turned, but before I could even step into the courtyard, I saw an advancing figure. A bedraggled-looking man, wearing torn and filthy brown pants and an overcoat that had huge, bulging pockets, staggered toward me. Every step he took rang out on the stones. He’s just a beggar who intends no harm, I told myself. He’s just look- ing for scraps of food, for a treasure in the garbage he’d be able to sell. But what if I was wrong? Alone with him in the darkening court- yard, where could I go? In my skirt and heeled boots, could I even outrun him?

Make sure you visit M.J. Rose's website to enter to win this gorgeous necklace to celebrate her release!

  THE WITCH OF PAINTED SORROWS Synopsis: Possession. Power. Passion. New York Times bestselling novelist M. J. Rose creates her most provocative and magical spellbinder yet in this gothic novel set against the lavish spectacle of 1890s Belle Époque Paris. Sandrine Salome flees New York for her grandmother's Paris mansion to escape her dangerous husband, but what she finds there is even more menacing. The house, famous for its lavish art collection and elegant salons, is mysteriously closed up. Although her grandmother insists it's dangerous for Sandrine to visit, she defies her and meets Julien Duplessi, a mesmerizing young architect. Together they explore the hidden night world of Paris, the forbidden occult underground and Sandrine's deepest desires. Among the bohemians and the demi-monde, Sandrine discovers her erotic nature as a lover and painter. Then darker influences threaten--her cold and cruel husband is tracking her down and something sinister is taking hold, changing Sandrine, altering her. She's become possessed byLa Lune: A witch, a legend, and a sixteenth-century courtesan, who opens up her life to a darkness that may become a gift or a curse This is Sandrine's "wild night of the soul," her odyssey in the magnificent city of Paris, of art, love, and witchery.  

"Haunting tale of possession." —Publishers Weekly

"Rose's new series offers her specialty, a unique and captivating supernatural angle, set in an intriguing belle epoque Paris — lush descriptions, intricate plot and mesmerizing storytelling. Sensual, evocative, mysterious and haunting." —Kirkus

"Mixes reality and illusion, darkness and light, mystery and romance into an adult fairy tale. [Rose] stirs her readers curiosities and imaginations, opening their eyes to the cultural, intellectual and artistic excitement that marked the Belle Epoque period. Unforgettable, full-bodied characters and richly detailed narrative result in an entrancing read that will be long savored."—Library Journal (Starred Review)

    About M.J. Rose: New York Times Bestseller, M.J. Rose grew up in New York City mostly in the labyrinthine galleries of the Metropolitan Museum, the dark tunnels and lush gardens of Central Park and reading her mother's favorite books before she was allowed. She believes mystery and magic are all around us but we are too often too busy to notice... books that exaggerate mystery and magic draw attention to it and remind us to look for it and revel in it. Rose's work has appeared in many magazines including Oprah Magazine and she has been featured in the New York Times, Newsweek, WSJ, Time, USA Today and on the Today Show, and NPR radio. Rose graduated from Syracuse University, spent the '80s in advertising, has a commercial in the Museum of Modern Art in NYC and since 2005 has run the first marketing company for authors - Authorbuzz.com The television series PAST LIFE, was based on Rose's novels in the Reincarnationist series. She is one of the founding board members of International Thriller Writers and currently serves, with Lee Child, as the organization's co-president. Rose lives in CT with her husband the musician and composer, Doug Scofield, and their very spoiled and often photographed dog, Winka.  

Website | Twitter| Facebook | Author Goodreads | Novel Goodreads| Newsletter| Pinterest

 

 

ANNOUNCING 'THE BOOKISH NOOK' SHOP!

Hey Bookworms!

Today I have exciting news to share with you!

I've opened up an online shop and it's stocked full with book related clothing, tote bags, phone and tablet cases, coffee mugs, and more!

My Shop

New inventory is added daily, so please be sure to stop by often to check out what is new.

Feel free to contact me with any special requests as well.

Happy Reading ( and Shopping!)

Laura

REVIEW {41} - THE DEMON KING by Cinda Williams-Chima (Spoiler Free!)

THE DEMON KING
BY: Cinda Williams-Chima
SERIES: Seven Realms #1
GOODREADS RATING: 4.21 out of 5.00 Stars
MY RATING: 5.00 out of 5.00 Stars
ADD TO GOODREADS

WHAT THE BACK OF THE BOOK SAYS: 

Times are hard in the mountain city of Fellsmarch. Reformed thief Han Alister will do almost anything to eke out a living for his family. The only thing of value he has is something he can't sell—the thick silver cuffs he's worn since birth. They're clearly magicked—as he grows, they grow, and he's never been able to get them off.

One day, Han and his clan friend, Dancer, confront three young wizards setting fire to the sacred mountain of Hanalea. Han takes an amulet from Micah Bayar, son of the High Wizard, to keep him from using it against them. Soon Han learns that the amulet has an evil history—it once belonged to the Demon King, the wizard who nearly destroyed the world a millennium ago. With a magical piece that powerful at stake, Han knows that the Bayars will stop at nothing to get it back.

Meanwhile, Raisa ana'Marianna, princess heir of the Fells, has her own battles to fight. She's just returned to court after three years of freedom in the mountains—riding, hunting, and working the famous clan markets. Raisa wants to be more than an ornament in a glittering cage. She aspires to be like Hanalea—the legendary warrior queen who killed the Demon King and saved the world. But her mother has other plans for her—including marriage to a suitor who goes against everything the queendom stands for.

The Seven Realms tremble when the lives of Hans and Raisa collide, fanning the flames of the smoldering war between clans and wizards.

LIKES

•  Princess Raisa! My goodness, I didn't realize how badly I've been in need of a strong heroine. One thing that I love is when a character completely transforms over the course of the book, and Raisa is no exception. She starts out as a naive, ignorant princess heir but who she is at the end of the book is not the same girl.
• Han Alister. Or Cuffs Alister. Or Hunts Alone. You know - whichever name you decide to call him! Han is such a unique character as well. He is often thought of as this vicious street gang leader who has no care or regard for anyone, but that is so far from the truth! He is a complex character, and I cannot wait to see where the rest of the series takes him. He has immense potential, so it will be interesting to see if he ends up as a hero or villain.
•  The world-building. This is a giant world - uh, hello, it's called the Seven Realms series - and it's incredible how easily the landscapes come to life right off of each page! From the grimy, dirty streets of Ragmarket or Southbridge, to the royal castle of Fellsmarch to the Vale and the camps - Marisa Pines and Demonai - each is unique and incredibly detailed.

DISLIKES

• It started off reading a little young, but the content didn't match that. I enjoy the writing, but it did take me a few chapters to really connect.
• A few events were predictable.

• I didn't realize that there was a map - my Kindle copy opened to chapter one, skipping the title page etc., so I didn't know there was a map included! Duh!

MY THOUGHTS

I don't know how I haven't read this book yet. I mean, seriously - it was THAT good. It just really missed my radar. We start the book thrown immediately into action, and pick up information about the main characters and the realm along the way. I enjoyed that the story was told from alternating perspectives as well. It was a great way to contrast Raisa's life growing up as royalty, and Han's life, growing up as a street thug. I thoroughly enjoyed Williams-Chima's writing style. She writes in such a fantastic way, that the characters came to life on each page. I was able to feel everything that Raisa and Han did - from happy moments to really heartbreakingly sad ones.

I also love the character growth in this book. Raisa becomes such an admirable character by books end, that it's hard to believe she came from where she did. She always had it in her to start a revolution, and now she's ready to carry it out. She isn't the type of future monarch to sit around and let her people live in squalor while they live in grandeur in the castle.

Another great part of this book is the range of characters. From humans, to those who wield magic, to those who create magical amulets. I love, love, loved the magical themes in this story! We had good magic users and of course, bad. It was written beautifully, and I cannot wait to see how the magical use will evolve in the next books. It was nice to see such an array of characters as well, from all races and walks of life. It really added a diversity to the book that was wonderful.

The world building was helped greatly by the provided map in the beginning of the book of the Seven Realms. It can be a little overwhelming at first, since the books takes place in many different parts of the world - and different areas are mentioned often. But once you really get a handle on it, it's incredible how author's can create these worlds in their minds!

WOULD I RECOMMEND IT? Whether your a newbie to fantasy or an avid fantasy reader - you'll love this book!

Happy Reading!
Laura

FEBRUARY BOOK HAUL!

Hey Bookworms!

Check out my latest book haul below... and don't forget to subscribe to my BookTube channel so you can watch all of my latest videos! Comments welcome - and if you have any ideas for videos let me know!

Happy Reading!

REVIEW {43} THE THORN AND THE SINKING STONE by CJ Dushinski

Hey Bookworms! Today I am sharing with you my review of this paranormal dystopian as my stop on the tour! Continue through the review to the end to enter the giveaway! Leave comments and let me know if you plan on reading this one! Check out the rest of the stops on this book tour HERE.

THE THORN AND THE SINKING STONE
SERIES: Thorn and Dagger Series - Book #1
AUTHOR: CJ Dushinski
RELEASE DATE: March 2015
PUBLISHER: Entangled Teen
MY RATING: 3.00/5.00 Stars | GOODREADS RATING: 3.61/5.00 Stars
ADD TO GOODREADS

WHAT IT'S ABOUT:  Warring families. Forbidden love. And danger they can’t escape…

Daggers. Roses. Cowboys. Boat Men. Survivors of Earth's Last War, four “families” vie to rule the dreary streets of Rain City through violence and blood. Valencia Hara, Princess of the wealthy Black Roses, is raised in warrior ways with sharpened steel. But she is no ordinary Rose. She is Cursed—tainted with the ability to see seconds into the future…

To avenge his father's death, Sebastian Leold, of the rival gang Two Daggers, must face off against the Black Princess, he with his dagger, she with her katana sword. Yet a secret from a shared past leaves him unable to kill beautiful Valencia; nor can she kill him. For they once knew each other beyond their blood feud…and they have more secrets in common than they know.

But in a world filled with vengeance and violence, there can be no room for love…

MY REVIEW:  A copy of this book was provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.

The first time that I read the summary for this book; I realized that it was one that I wanted a copy of ASAP.

My first thoughts were that it was a futuristic, dystopian re-telling of Romeo and Juliet - which I see lots of other reviewers saying they thought the same thing - even though this book isn't marketed as such. Personally, I feel that I'd have picked this one up without a second thought if it had been marketed as such. Romeo and Juliet is one of my fave stories of all time!

The world-building in this story was pretty remarkable. I think that the author had a clearly defined world in her imagination and was able to perfectly portray her visions onto the pages.

I liked the characters too. Each was 3d and able to stand out from the rest. There was such an array of different types of characters too - apart from the main characters that really made this book stand out in its genre.

The writing style was just okay - I don't think that there was anything that would make it stand out or have me remember it as being incredible.

Would I recommend this book? Yes, if you love sci-fi/dystopian/paranormal/tragedies. 

Will I continue this series? Yes, I anticipate finishing the series.

BUY LINKS

AMAZON | BARNES & NOBLE | KOBO BOOKS

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:  While attempting to navigate life as a responsible human being, CJ graduated from university with a B.Comm and worked her way along as a marketer, copywriter, and graphic designer to earn a paycheck while pursuing her passion for creating fantastical stories set in dark and wondrous corners of the world. Born amongst the wheat fields and open skies of the Canadian prairies, CJ's imagination has always run wild, taking her on adventures across the world from modeling in Seoul, South Korea to backpacking through Europe and surfing (poorly) in Hawaii.

After wandering through ancient cities and civilizations, learning from diverse cultures, and surrounding herself in new experiences, CJ was inspired and began work on her debut young adult novel THE THORN AND THE SINKING STONE, to be published by Entangled Publishing 2014/15. CJ currently resides in Calgary, Alberta Canada - home of the Canadian Rockies - and keeps one hand on her passport and pen at all times, ready to pick up, see the world, and weave her experiences into stories.

CJ is represented by Marlene Stringer of the Stringer Literary Agency LLC.

AUTHOR LINKS

Website | Twitter | Goodreads | Facebook  

GIVEAWAY

 

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Happy Reading!

REVIEW {42} - Amy & Roger's Epic Detour by Morgan Matson

Amy & Roger's Epic Detour
By: Morgan Matson
Paperback, 344 pages | Simon & Schuster Books for Young Readers
My Rating: 5.00/5.00 Stars | Goodreads Rating: 4.06/5.00 Stars
Add to Goodreads

WHAT IT'S ABOUT: Amy Curry is not looking forward to her summer. Her mother decided to move across the country and now it's Amy's responsibility to get their car from California to Connecticut. The only problem is, since her father died in a car accident, she isn't ready to get behind the wheel. Enter Roger. An old family friend, he also has to make the cross-country trip - and has plenty of baggage of his own. The road home may be unfamiliar - especially with their friendship venturing into uncharted territory - but together, Amy and Roger will figure out how to map their way.

MY THOUGHTS: There is just something so perfect about a Morgan Matson novel. You can expect awesomeness, and it will be delivered. She manages to do Contemporary Romance perfectly - there's no insta-love, and her character's are each flawed and struggling in their own ways. In Epic Detour, we have Amy Curry - fresh off the loss of her father in a car accident that she is convinced was her fault; and Roger Sullivan - who is still reeling from a recent breakup. They are thrown together on a cross-country road tour, and of course, they both get more than they bargained for.

For the past month, Amy has been living alone - her father is gone, her twin brother is in rehab, and her mom picked up and moved to Connecticut - which is the destination of the road trip with Roger. She is horribly depressed, blaming herself - wallowing in a pool of self-pity, and basically has become an empty shell of herself. She's abandoned all of her friends, including BFF Julia who is officially giving up on her. 

 "The best discoveries always happened to the people who weren't looking for them."

Roger is back in California from Colorado, where he attends college, and is heading to Philadelphia to spend the summer with his father. He was dating Hadley Armstrong - the pretty girl who's M.O. is to leave guys high and dry, with no explanation of why it went bad. She's basically not a nice girl. But Roger needs closure - and wants her back. He agrees to this road trip thinking he can drive to Colorado and win Hadley back. 

Day One - Amy and Roger decide to throw her mother's four day itinerary out the window, and make their way from California to Colorado, stopping to see the sights. What they find on the way is more than either thought they'd get.

***

I cannot tell you how much I seriously HEART this book. It is so perfect, well, except for the end - I want MORE! Please, write a sequel, Morgan, I beg of you! I need to know where our characters end up after this. 

  

I picked this book off my shelf looking for a light read, which I did and didn't get. Sure, there's the contemporary part of this book, but there are some pretty hefty topics in this book too - death, addiction, breakups, and finding yourself - and your way out of grief and depression. Matson does this is such a wonderful way too, mixing the good with the bad. You can feel Amy or Roger's despair one second, and the next you're laughing. It's wonderful! 

WOULD I RECOMMEND IT? Oh my gosh, YES! In a heartbeat, I would recommend it to any Contemporary Romance lovers looking for a five-star read.

Happy Reading,

Laura 

TRAILER REVEAL - Awakening by Shannon Duffy

Hey Bookworms! Today I am sharing with you the trailer reveal for Shannon Duffy's novel, Awakening. 

Awakening by Shannon Duffy
Release date: 4/07/15
Publisher: Entangled Teen

 

About the Book: Desiree Six (because she was born on a Friday) believes in everything the Protectorate stands for. She likes the safety and security of having her entire life planned out—her career, her mate, even the date of her death. She doesn’t even think to question when Darian, her childhood friend and neighbor, is convicted of murdering his parents. They had seemed like such a loving family. But if he was convicted, then he must have done it. Then Darian shows up in her room late one night. He has escaped the Terrorscape—a nightmare machine used to punish all Noncompliants—and he needs Desiree’s help. What he tells her rocks her world to its core and makes her doubt everything she’s ever been told. With this new information, will Desiree and Darian be able to escape the Protectorate before it’s too late? 

Buy Links
AMAZON
iTunes
GOODREADS

Find Shannon Duffy Online:
Website: http://www.shannonduffylit.com
Twitter: https://twitter.com/ShannonDuffyLit

Happy Reading!
Laura
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/shannon.duffy.56

FEBRUARY WRAP UP + WHAT'S UP IN MARCH

Hey Bookworms!

Can you believe we are saying goodbye to February already, and hello to March? How quickly this year seems to be going already. 

February was a slow reading month for me, and I only added one book to my 2015-Read Shelf on Goodreads, and that was The Demon King (Seven Realms #1) by Cinda Williams-Chima [Review to come].

I am Currently Reading Voyager (Outlander #3) by Diana Gabaldon, Silver Shadows (Bloodlines #5) by Richelle Mead, and Amy and Roger's Epic Detour by Morgan Matson.

So What's up for March?

I am going to be finishing the above books, as well as The Thorn and the Sinking Stone by C.J. Dushinski as part of a blog tour [look for my review on March 13th]. I don't know what books I'm going to be reading this month yet, as I don't really have any sort of craving for any one type of book. I have been eying my set of Beautiful Creatures Series for a re-read though. 

Sorry this was such a boring post! It's been slow reading for me, and there was

about a week long period where I wasn't really reading at all.

But I'd love to know what you guys read in February and what you plan to read in March, so please leave me comments below letting me know!

Happy Reading!

Laura

THE LEONARDO DICAPRIO TAG

Hey bookworms!

Today I am doing the Leo DiCaprio tag, created by Lainey (check her out on BookTube HERE). I hope you enjoy the tag, and I'm leaving the tagging open, so if you want to do it, do it! Just comment below with links so I can come check it out!

1 - GROWING PAINS: A book you read before it got famous/hyped up/popular.

Throne of Glass by Sarah J. Mass. I picked this one up not long after it released, and it seemed like there was nothing about it anywhere online! But now, it's exploded, which thrills me because holy cow, this is an awesome series so far!!!

2 - TOBEY MAGUIRE: Your favorite book BFFs.

Ethan and Link from Beautiful Creatures by Margaret Stohl and Kami Garcia. These guys have bro code down to a T; and are there for each other no matter what - or who - tries to get between them.

3 - KATE WINSLET: Your OTP.

I haven't finished the series yet, so I can only base this on the first two books, but I have to pick Jamie Fraser and Claire Randall from the Outlander series by Diana Gabaldon. I literally can't even when it comes to these two! Jamie is just... perfect.

4 - TITANIC: A book that made you cry (or emotionally upset, if you don't cry).

Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows. Don't think I necessarily have to explain why!

5 - MARTIN SCORSESE:  An author you will always buy their books no matter what.

Katie McGarry. I'm not a huge contemporary/romance fan, but her books literally rock my socks! I love her characters SO much! They're so imperfect and flawed but incredible all at the same time.

6 - VICTORIAS SECRET MODELS: A genre you'll always go back to.

Historical Fiction. It is what I first started reading after high school when I was able to choose my own reading material. It still is one of my favorite genres, and I usually recommend it to people looking for good stories.

7 - HAPPY LEO MEME: A character that makes you smile.

Edward Cullen. Go ahead, laugh, see if I care! Twilight was the first YA series that I read as an adult, that really got me into YA to begin with. It - along with swoon-worthy Edward - will always hold a special place in my heart.

8 - EVERY LEO CHARACTER: Your favorite complex character.

Oh this is easy! Severus Snape. No need to expand on that one, if you've read Harry Potter, I bet you understand. And if you haven't read Harry Potter, well I'm not so sure we can be friends anymore.

9 - LEONARDO NOOSCARO: A book that doesn't get the recognition that it deserves.

The Faerie Path by Frewin Jones. This series has been out for awhile, and I must say I don't see anything about it anywhere. It's a great series - starting out sweet and light but takes a Harry Potter-esque turn towards the dark side. They characters and world-building is awesome, and I highly recommend it to any fairy or fantasy lover!

Happy Reading!
Laura