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Beck (Corps #3) by Harper Sloan

30/12/2013

DEE
I’ve always been good at wearing masks. Not letting anyone see the real me. I’m content being the happy-go-lucky best friend. The strong willed boss. The independent woman who doesn’t need a man.

But the truth is I’m just as broken as the rest of you. I’m terrified that all it will take is one person to make all my carefully constructed walls crumble into fine dust. So I guard my heart with everything I have. Determined to never let anyone get close enough to hurt me again.

All is perfect until HE walks into my life. No… he doesn’t just walk. He struts his good-looking, sex-oozing self right into my space and demands that I see HIM. Making me want what I know I can’t have.

So I did the only thing I know how to do.
I run.
But he just won’t let me go.

BECK
The second I see her, I know she will be mine. I see past the gorgeous smiles and heart-stopping laughter. I see HER. She doesn’t want me to know her secrets or the past that haunts her, but I make it my mission to find out.

To make her mine.

She can run all she wants, but it will never be far enough to stop me from coming after her.
She’s it for me and she knows it.
She’s just too scared to admit it

Oh boy. I'm going to attempt to get through this review as coherent as possible, I make no promises though. Okay so I was graced with an ARC courtesy of the author, and the lovely Twinsie Talk crew. And...well...damn Harper you just keep getting better and better, and I truly believe it is physically impossible to not like, swoon and fall hopelessly in love with the Corps men. We've had snippets of Beck and Dee's story since book one, seeing it through those characters POVs is what ignited our intrigue into their story, but in no way was I prepared for the emotional journey it would take us through.

Through Izzy and Greg I had this depiction of Dee as the funny and witty friend, always there when you need her and just one of those chicks not looking for a relationship. Sufferin succotash was I wrong! Behind the brave exterior was a woman who was haunted and in many ways broken, lost so completely in her darkness she didn't even realize there was one person willing to save her, to fight for her and above all set her free. It was strange to go from this image I had of her in my head, to seeing the scarred woman beneath and my heart ached for her. Don't get me wrong, Dee is everything we've seen in books one and two, fierce, loyal, witty and kind. But there's so much more depth to her character in this one, and we see she's also strong, incredibly brave, determined and heartachingly courageous, she's definitely in my top 15 kick-ass heroines of all time. I won't lie watching her push Beck away I was getting pretty frustrated, she was one of those heroines who pushes away the good guy who's like done everything he can to win her over, so it got to the point where I was clenching my hands hard considering just smashing my beloved Kindle against the wall. While most heroines eventually clue in and give in, they don't do the one redeeming thing Dee does. She admits she's been making mistake after mistake pushing him away, and finally goes about the right way in correcting that. I thought Harper did an amazing job on handling the serious issues that arise within this book, I connected with Dee on a very personal level when her secrets were revealed and my heart really hurt for her. I admired her for her courage and determination to let go and finally start moving forward. It's never easy especially alone, the fact she had am amazing support base made me positively glow with happiness.

We come across all our favorite characters and couples, meet some beautiful new ones and see another side of the Corps team through fresh eyes. Dee and Beck's journey was not easy, but through sheer will and love they find a way to get to the other side together. Through their journey we also get to see the different dynamics in practically all their relationships, I never just wanted it to end. Upon completion I just sat there dejectedly thinking 'what am I supposed to do now?' As usual Harper leaves with more than enough to have us climbing the walls for the next book, and I hinestly cannot wait to see what she gives us next.

“Who would be grateful for this? Two parents that don’t want you. All the money in the world, but no happiness?”

“When Beck finally comes out of the office for dinner, he takes one look at me, and I know he sees the change, because after he looks down at the floor for a few seconds, he looks back into my eyes with the biggest smile plastered on his face.
“Well… all right,” he says, giving me a hug just shy of painful.”

Ah Beck. I'm in love minions. Lordy but the man is just perfect! Corps fans, can I get an Amen! *Raises hands* There was no denying his chemistry with Dee was wild, and in many ways you could see how they fit together. I loved, loved, LOVED Harper beginning the book with the first time they met and showing us how their relationship started off, it not only made all the difference but it also went a long way in helping us understand the characters on another level. Oh and don't get me started on the dual POVs, I love Harper all the more for them! Because I might sound like a bit of a bitch but I didn't get why Beck kept holding on for so long, and I was under the assumption Harper had revealed it all with him, boy was I mistaken. Beck's frustration and love was like a living thing emanating from my Kindle, and the more I read the more I fell hopelessly in love and desperately want a Beck of my own. Harper didn't hold anything back, she illustrated beautifully the inner struggle within Dee, and the struggle for both Beck and Dee for a life together. There was no easy way out, no quick fixes and definitely no riding into the sunset but rather all about living in the now and fighting for the things in life that are truly worth everything.

Beck's constant support and love went a long way in healing Dee, and I admire him from never saying anything to Greg or Izzy. Then again that's not his style. But I felt he was justified in his confrontation with Greg, and it just goes to show how easily even those closest to us can be blind to the crippling pain lying behind our fake smiles. Harper portrays how deceptive appearances can be, and makes you question how deep you would search when a loved one says they're 'fine'. It said a lot about not only Beck but also Dee, how they didn't lay blame as such on their friends for their blindness, I think more than anything they were just hurt and justifiably so.

“You’ve got nothing to be scared of with me. Not one damn thing. You’ve had me in knots for months, Dee. Fighting for you, us, and this relationship might drive me mad at times, but it’s a fight I want if it ends with you in my arms.”

“I want it all. Mind, body, soul, and heart. I promise you that when we finally get there, it’s going to be worth the wait. When you open yourself up to me completely… Baby, you won’t even believe how good it’s going to be.”

I was warned about needing tissues and loads of chocolate going into this book, but nothing could have prepared me for the curveball Harper throws in. I was absolutely shattered. I kept thinking it would get better, it wasn't going to end like that...I was wrong. I was conflicted with smashing my Kindle against the wall or screaming the house down. In fact I was surrounded by my family when my world had stopped and I was a complete blubbering mess, my little sister actually slapped me and shouted 'It's not real! It's just a book!', I pushed her and stormed out of the room all the while screaming about how they will never understand my pain. It is never just a book minions. Never. Ever. And had I been able to function properly I would have most assuredly gone into a sibling smackdown with her, such was my grief I only managed a good shove. This should speaks volumes of the emotional turmoil this book will have you in. Here's a breakdown of my reactions...

At first I was like...

But then I was like...

And then the ending had me...

Harper managed to shine a small ray of light towards the end of the book, and now I have all these new questions and fears. Through her amazing secondary characters, such as the fabulous Sway we see that life goes on and we must always make the most of every moment. For nothing in life is certain, and all we really have is the here and now. I've wanted Maddox's story since book one, but alas I have one more book to wait until then. I'm pretty sure I'm gonna end up hurting someone soon. But my rating minions? 5 gut-wrenching stars! Despite the emotional roller-coaster Harper does a wonderful job of illustrating not only the fragility of life but at the same time the beauty of all life has to offer. It makes you think and reflect, and any author who accomplishes that is a truly talented writer in my opinion. She further portrays the mindset of a victim fairly accurately, and as I mentioned before handles these issues with the care they deserve. Her writing style is effortless, her characters wonderfully developed and her dialogue truly one of a kind. I cannot wait to see what's to come, my minds already running amuck with ideas.

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Under Different Stars (Kricket #1) by Amy A. Bartol

21/12/2013

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All she wants is a home, but can she find one…UNDER DIFFERENT STARS

Kricket Hollowell is normally not one to wish upon stars; she believes they’re rarely in her favor. Well versed at dodging caseworkers from Chicago’s foster care system, the past few years on her own have made Kricket an expert at the art of survival and blending in. With her 18th birthday fast approaching, she dreams of the day when she can stop running and find what her heart needs most: a home.

Trey Allairis hates Earth and doubts that anyone from his world can thrive here. What he’s learning of Kricket and her existence away from her true home only confirms his theory. But, when he and Kricket lie together under the stars of Ethar, counting them all may be easier than letting her go.

Kyon Ensin’s secrets number the stars; he knows more about Kricket’s gifts than anyone and plans to possess her because of them. He also knows she’s more valuable than any fire in the night sky. He’ll move the heavens and align them all in order to make her his own.

When everything in their world can be broken, will Kricket rely upon love to save her under different stars?

I was graciously provided an ARC for an honest review, and while it's no secret I'm stalker crazed about Amy, like all my reviews everything I shall say is the truth and nothing but truth. Under Different Stars kicked some major otherworld ass! That statement speaks volumes, because it's with a heavy heart I confess...I am not a fan of dystopian type novels, *ducks face* I just can't do it! I've tried, I really have but it just doesn't click. Maybe I have a serious book deficiency, or something I don't know. I can get into the Sci-Fi thing providing it has a good plot line, and reading the synopsis up there don't tell me you aren't interested, because you're lying. Okay so with that confession comes another one...I love Amy and I think her work is amazing but...but when I first heard about this book I wasn't sure. *Hides behind rock* Before you decide to stone me, let me explain. You see apart from my issues with dystopia, I've been going through a YA funk especially since the NA genre has literally exploded, not to mention it's nothing like Amy's done before so I was all lost and confused. Don't get me wrong regardless of the blog tour I would have still read it, it's Amy freaking Bartol one of the few authors who just has to write a book and I'll one-click that badboy. Clearly not only was my uncertainty for nothing, but I am completely and irrevocably in love with Under Different Stars.

Kricket was an amazing heroine, her strength and determination was awe-inspiring. Not to mention her character was witty, brave and really down to earth...or I should say down to Ethar. From the beginning we know there's something special about Kricket, and so the notion of her being from another world is not only believable but completely acceptable. The problem with magical realism is it sometimes sounds too far fetched, or the author's trying to hard and you find holes within the story. Amy does such a fantastic job of illustrating this other world, I had moments where I seriously believed it existed and wish more than anything I could go visit! The smoothness with which Kricket falls into this world and begins to adapt is beautiful, you can feel her struggle to adapt so quickly, her confusion and fear of the unknown. But she takes it all in stride, refusing to cower and give in to her fate. Each chapter is a stepping stone for not just Kricket, but for us the reader to become intimately acclimated to Ethar. Step by step we grasp an understanding of the mechanics and dynamics of this other world, absorbing the information just like Kricket thereby allowing us to draw on a deeper connection with her. Allowing us to then begin to understand why Kricket is so important, and the significance she plays for the people living on Ethar.

Her relationship with Trey was just wow, I mean there was no insta-love or lust it all just felt right. Like they were meant to be. Through their journey we begin to see the gradual sparks fly between them, and before you know it you're gripping your Kindle like it holds the meaning of life just from the anticipation of their scenes. The looks, banter, touches and scorching kisses. It was just perfect. Everything happened at a reasonable place, syncing with the plot line so that it all eventually builds to this amazing crescendo. Their relationship, while a pivotal aspect was not the focus point for the book, Amy constantly has you aware of the bigger picture, the other central characters and issues that will eventually arise. Which is why watching Kricket and Trey's relationship play out is so captivating, because all the events around them contribute to the pieces clicking into place. Not to mention their chemistry was just smoking, their banter was hilarious and their intense scenes give you a serious case of the warm fuzzies.

“We have to make the stars align for us now—find a way for us not to get burned for being together.”

Trey was simply brilliant, nothing like a sexy bodyguard to keep you warm and safe. I think through Kricket we got to see glimpses of the struggle within Trey, certain scenes or dialogue have you questioning or analyzing what he meant. You could see how it might have started out like a job, but it begins to become so much more than that to the point you're raving at your Kindle why does he deny it. As Amy gives us more information on the way Rafe society works, you begin to foresee all the problems that will arise following Kricket's arrival. Leading to a long stream of questions that get you thinking, and holding on that much more to reach the ending. Something I love about books is their power to make you think, and like I said the world Amy portrays is so believable you don't even question your line of thought, becoming not just completely engrossed with the book but also finely attuned. I loved watching Trey's resole finally crumble, like this whole time it was building up at the same pace as the plot line, because just as everything begins to unravel they seem to be holding on and have a way out insight.

I loved the camaraderie between Trey, Jax and Wyra. I'd love for Jax and Wyra to get their own little book or novella, they just totally kicked ass. I loved watching their resolve crumble regarding Kricket, as the story progressed they seemed more like adorable big brothers than they did captors. They were also the ones who kept Trey in line, because it wasn't all sunshine and daisies minions. When things got to intense or serious, they were there to lighten the mood. I also think there's a lot more to come from both of them, and I'm looking forward to the upcoming battle. As evidenced so far loyalties will be tested and everyone wants a piece of Kricket, it's a question now of how they survive and come out victorious.

“You could never be a temporary situation for me, Kricket. I know that once I have you, I’ll never be able to let you go.” He looks concerned as he scans my face. “I want you as my consort…until death do us part, and then forever after that,”

Now what would an Amy Bartol novel be without some major bad guys? First she gave us the Gancangh with dastardly Brennus in the Premonition series, and now she gives us the Alameeda with the lecherous Kyon, stupid knob knockers! Honestly woman are trying to kill us? It wasn't so much a love triangle as it was a frustrating nuisance, I was sat there through Kyon's scenes like 'Dude are you for real? She. No. Want. You.' Like the fool couldn't take a hint and move on with his life, I mean yeah I get why he's incorporated in the story and he adds that extra little something to it I won't lie. But I was so annoyed with all the hurdles Trey and Kricket had to face, I really just wanted him to go away...after I kicked his ass of course. Knowing Amy I can only guess as to what she has in store for us where Kyon's concerned, it'll surely test our patience and bring out our ugly sides maybe even drive us bat shit crazy, because following Kyon we have the Alameeda peeps who just don't know when to admit defeat. *Sigh* Will it ever end?

Then there's the whole political upheaval throughout the book, which introduces some very disturbing characters...like the perverted Manus. You find yourself trying to figure out their ulterior motives, because where Kricket's concerned nothing is as it seems. In many ways it was like a game of chess, with each character making a play and you could almost hear the deathly silence that follows as they make their move, waiting to see who will declare checkmate. Learning of the different factions, leaders, traditions and intriguing history was detailed concisely and beautifully. I don't think I can say enough to covey how spectacularly it was all constructed.

Let me play out for you how me reading this awesome book went:

Feelings for the Alameeda and Kyon...

My feelings for Manus...

My feelings for Jax and Wyra...

My feelings for Trey...

Overall feelings towards the book...

And then the ending...

Never used so many gifs! That not only speaks volumes, but with so many you know the gifs cannot lie. So my rating? 5 out of this world amazing stars! I'd give it more if I could. The writing style was smooth and detailed, drawing you in from page one. The characters were incredibly well developed, the dialogue would transition from hilarious to intense with great subtlety and the overall plot line was incredibly thought out and engaging. I even delayed finishing the last 20% of the book for a day, just so I could stay in Ethar a little while longer. Once again Amy does not disappoint. While the ending had me screaming at my Kindle for more, it was also the perfect place for it to end, leaving us highly anxious for the next book. I've already gone through countless scenarios of what I hope or think will happen. *Grabby hands* It's gonna be a long wait minions. I'm sure my points been made clear, but I really recommend this book if you're looking for a sci-fi, action packed, thrilling, intense with a beautiful romance look no further.

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Enslaved by the Ocean by Bella Jewel

16/12/2013

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Indigo is running, she has no other choice. She's done something bad, and there only way to escape it, is to flee her home, and her country. She sets out on a luxury Yacht, to take her to another country with her best friend Eric. But she runs into a problem.

The Yacht catches fire.

She ends up stranded in the ocean, terrified, and scared of the uncertain. Until they show up. The pirates. Terrified, Indigo and Eric have to face the reality that this might be the end for them. These are pirates, they are the criminals of the ocean. What chance have they got of surviving this nightmare?

Then she lays eyes on Hendrix. He's the Captain, he's gorgeous, rugged, and mean. He's planning on keeping her to repay his debt to another man, by selling her. Now Indigo has a crazy ex after her, as well as a pirate she can't seem to get out of her head.

Come on this heart wrenching, dark, angsty and dangerous adventure as two people so opposite, find something so beautiful.

It's no secret I'm a fan of Bella's, her MC Sinners series is one of the best biker romance series out there. So when I came across Enslaved by the Ocean, I was like 'say what now?!' and of course I began a little investigating. Now I have a very long TBR list and quite a few blog tours coming up, so I do not have time to pick up a new book. But from reading the reviews, and well the fact that it's Bella I couldn't resist. And hello it has freaking pirates! Feel stupid for even trying really. I figured I'd read it, and if it's good it'll be added to my 'to be reviewed' pile. I was not expecting the major book hangover that followed, or how it simply smashed it's way to the top of the list. I finished this badboy in just a few hours, and I'm anxiously waiting for the next book.

I liked Indi's character, she wasn't what I was expecting. I liked her sass, bravery and determination. It's impossible to know how you would handle being on the run and abducted by pirates, but I'm pretty sure I'd be a ball of quivering mess in the corner. 'Cause these were some badass mother pirates...as they would be naturally but I'm comparing them to Hooks team. Her unwavering love for Eric was admirable, especially at times when he was acting like an ungrateful douche. As the reader you could feel her inner turmoil, what would you do to survive? Bella's writing has always had the effect to invoke heartbreaking emotion, and Enslaved by the Ocean was no different. I loved watching her settle in to pirate life, making friends and telling awful pirate jokes. Through the connections she develops with the crew, we get a better insight to certain characters, and can see the trail being laid for their stories which I for one cannot freaking wait!

Indi's relationship with Hendrix was complicated and definitely perplexing, to say the least. Their first meeting obviously doesn't go well, and with all the mixed signs one has to ask one self 'wtf?'. It sounds bad and maybe a little wrong, but as the story progressed I was really rooting for them because despite it all they somehow fit. Her need to escape versus her need for Hendrix. I found it hard to see how they'd even become friends let alone lovers with the way he treated her, but Indi has a damn lot of heart and apart from one moment of weakness she always looked for a way. She's a helluva woman for putting up with Hendrix, but the chemistry between them is not only undeniable but simply explosive. Like they say, the heart wants what the heart wants.

How the hell am I supposed to keep playing a game when I no longer care for the rules?

I realize these guys are so much more than pirates. They’re brothers. They’re family. They believe in each other.

He’s making everything inside me come alive, but most of all, he’s making me feel… beautiful, sexy, alluring… hell, he’s making me feel like a woman. I’ve never felt that in all my life.

Hendrix was one walking, talking contradiction. Like I said, I just didn't know how anything could possibly develop between them, but Bella found a way. Hendrix was cold, harsh and quiet callous at the start. But ever so slowly we see a little behind the mask, like Bella was peeling back the layers for us. They were never much at times, mostly we'd see a different side of him one moment and he'd be back to asshole the next. But those fleeting glimpses let us know he had a somewhat compassionate side, was capable of feeling something and above all had a really big heart. His dedication to his crew was impressive, and watching his role as captain you can't help but respect the man.

I would have loved to have gotten his POV, especially when shit hit the proverbial fan. But through Indi, we get a pretty good idea of his character and feelings towards Indi. His actions quite often contradicted what he would say, and I'll be honest I had a little whiplash with the constant mood changes. Who knew pirates were so temperamental. When they do become an item, we see a different side to Hendrix altogether, at first it was hard to get used to this side of him. But then I kinda fell in love with him, because it was clear to see Bella was trying to illustrate how the truth shall set you free. At least that's what I was getting. Like once he gave in, and let her in to his heart he didn't have to be such a dick. Or maybe Indi simply brought out the best in him. Either way, he was totally swoonowrthy being all lovey dovey in a badass alpha pirate way.

“It’s hard I know, but I promise you I’ll fight every day of my life to make sure nothing happens to you, inocencia,” he whispers into my ear.

“You’re fucking exquisite, inocencia. Like a fucking dream.”

“Because you do something to me, right here,” he says, thumping his chest, right over his heart. “And one thing I’ve learned in my life, is that when something affects your heart, you don’t let it go.

What didn't work for me was when they finally get together, it all went way deep way fast. Felt like it needed to slow down a little. There were also a little too many coincidences, and it wasn't hard to guess what was about to happen, so it would have been nice if there was more developed during those scenes. Eric was a big part of Indi's life, but he kind of became a second thought and when we see him again he's a complete dick. So I felt there was some serious character development lacking there, 'cause I think I would have understood better if I knew his character better.

Do not get me started on the ending, freaking hell what a cliffhanger. I felt so bad for Jess, and then Dimitri appears from like nowhere and now we have to wait till 2014 for their story! *Bawls like a baby* Bella why do you torment us so? So my rating? 4 ravaging stars. There was some serious sexy time, and Bella's never disappointed on that end. Overall the series has a hell of a lot of potential and Bella's on the right lines. I read, loved, now reviewed and am waiting anxiously waiting for my next fix. It's pirates like you've never seen minions, so if you're looking for a little dark contemporary romance look no further!

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For Real by Chelsea M. Cameron

13/12/2013

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When virgin Shannon Travers gets fed up with her friends demanding that she find a boyfriend, she enlists the help of tattooed, mohawk-rocking graphic design student Jett. He’s more than happy to play along with their Fake Relationship, including the Ten Rules of Fake Dating that control-freak Shannon comes up with. Even if he likes to violate them. Repeatedly.

But what happens when Fake Dating starts to feel… not fake anymore? Will Shannon be willing to let go and embrace the first thing in her life that’s ever felt REAL?

Okay took me all day, but I've got it working my lovelies! Okay so you all know I love Chelsea's work, it's unique and completely brilliant. Reading the synopsis of For Real I was all grabby hands and gimme now attitude, I was lucky to receive an Arc courtesy of the author. Wow where do I begin, it was just like I thought but with that added sense of Chelsea humor. I loved Shannon, she's in my top 10 for all time hilarious heroines. Her inner monologue practically had me in stitches, and I don't think I'll be able to think of sex as the same again. I loved her connection with Jett, it was that instant kind of chemistry but not the insta-love kind but a mutual attraction. Two people with the same kind of interest and quirks, they got each other in a way most people actually in love don't. I know, says a lot don't it.

She's your typical kind of bookish girl, although she comes across as doormat for the most part she is more than capable of standing up for herself. It was awesome when she finally let loose and let it all hang out, I just wish there was a little something more because it had the potential to be a great scene. It was like this build up, but with a minimal explosion. I loved the rulebook for fake dating, like that stuff needs to be properly written and recorded for the masses. It was the most well thought out fake relationship I've ever read, and like I said it has Chelsea's one of a kind sense of humor. I liked seeing the grwoing attraction between them reach boiling point, it had me on pins and needles to get to the part where they just succumb. Nonetheless it was a good build up, it definitely kept me hooked right until the very end.

Granted, I haven’t seen his meat, but I’m sure it’s fine. At least I hope it’s fine. I’m sure it’s lovely meat, as far as meat goes.

“Don’t you feel bad for him? He’s sitting here with no one to love him,” Jett says, picking up the bear and pouting. He could get me to do anything with that pout. Anything.

It’s going to be perfect. And REAL.

Oh Jett, *swoon*. I'm totes in love. He was just great, and he doesn't come with demons or a haunted past. I mean there's a past, but nothing major in my opinion. I can also look past the Mean Girls obsession. I found it weird how easily he agreed with the fake dating stuff, but of course all is eventually revealed so then I kind of got it. He was such a sweetheart, and you could see his struggle to keep things strictly professional, so to speak. Of course the boundaries became wonderfully blurred along the way, and *sigh* I just love rule breakers. I liked his relationship with Javier, and when things come out I really wanted to attack hug Javier. Bless him. The banter between Jett and Shan was amusing and had you gripping your Kindle waiting to see if they'd give in, I mean lord knows they wanted it and hey kudos to them for holding out so long. I would have said screw the rules, like on day one because Jett is just to cool for words. Oh and his cranes! I want me a crane! I'm going to find a guy who has mastered the art of origami and marry him. Gah! It was so incredibly sweet and endearing, and I would love to have my place littered with wittle cranes.

I think Chelsea could have developed his character a bit more, especially towards the end when we get to see why he is the way he is. It definitely has the potential to be a great storyline, and I think I could have connected with his character a little more. It juts felt like there was something missing, especially at the most intense times between Shan and himself. While I love the relationship between him and Javier, it could have been developed a little more too. With the history revealed, I felt like without the revelation I would not have drawn that connection. I mean they were close, but it just seemed like friends close if that makes sense. The big feelings talk came across anti-climactic, because you feel their struggle to keep it fake so as the reader you imagine it's going to be huge when they just come clean. While one of my favorite scenes, I just felt like it didn't deliver.

“Hold still,” Jett says and I freeze. With one hand, he holds my chin steady as he brings his face forward.

Jett grins wide and grabs my face and gives me a kiss.
“You’re the sweetest klepto I’ve ever met. And I won’t tell anyone. Your secret is safe with me, princess.”

“Nothing. I’m just… happy.”
“Me too.”
“You make me happy.”
“Same here.”

The ending seemed kind of abrupt, like I turned the page and then that was it. I would have liked for it to be longer. It threw me, but I think it was concluded in a decent way. No promises of happily ever after, just taking each day as it comes. So my rating? 3.5 hilarious stars. Despite what I felt was lacking in certain parts, it was still a nice and sweet read. Javier definitely needs his own story, there is definitely something going on there behind the macho bravado. While some think the NA genre and 'virgin heroine' theme has been done to death, I rather enjoy reading an authors fresh and in many ways unique take on the matter. No one story line is ever really the same minions. So if you're looking for a light, sweet and funny as hell book then look no further

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Out of Time by Jen Mclaughlin

6/12/2013

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Desperate to keep him...

I've finally gotten everything I ever wanted: love, freedom, happiness, and, most importantly, Finn. Our love is everything I expected it to be and more. We've finally found each other, but the world seems determined to tear us apart. We thought my father was the only obstacle between us, but now it's the military. With Finn’s departure looming, we’re squeezing in every moment together before we run out of time.

Trying to make every moment count…

Being Carrie’s bodyguard was one thing. Being her boyfriend is another. Every day she’s mine is a day the sun shines in my life. Yet our time together is running out. Her father will never think a tattooed Marine will be good enough, so I’ll do whatever it takes to be worthy of her love. But the road will take me away from the girl who makes me feel alive--the girl I can't live without.

Time only gets us so far...

I want to start with thanking the author for providing me with eARC. Oh boy, where do I even begin? So after the cliffhanger ending in Out of Line, I was kinda anxious to see what would happen. I thought of all sorts of scenarios, bu what I got was so far from what I was thinking I'm in shock. Jen's done it again minions. The story picks up pretty much where the first ended, Finn and Carrie are together but keeping their love a secret. You just know it's going to bad when it all comes out, and watching Finn and Carrie struggle through is really intense. The first half of the book lagged on a bit, I mean we find out what the mysterious phone call was but then we watch Carrie and Finn struggle to figure it all out. Their apprehension was tangible, and as the reader you can't help but freak out a little with them. But I wanted so bloody bad for the meeting to happen so we could find out what the blooming heck was going on, but I get why Jen kept us on tenterhooks because I certainly had difficulty putting my Kindle down.

Carrie was a lot more confident in this book, having Finn in her life has certainly changed her for the better. When that one phone call sets all theses different things in motion, I couldn't help but feel for Carrie because I'm sure I would have been a wreck. She tries really hard to make the best of a bad situation, and I liked how her new found confidence helped her deal. I'll admit I had a lot more respect for her character when she stands up to her parents a little, but I really just wanted her to say 'screw it' and let it all hang out. Her relationship with Finn was as cute as ever, and definitely a little more spicy *wink*, I enjoyed watching their relationship grow stronger through not just their love but battling through all the little hurdles. The question is will they survive the biggest hurdle of all?

The fact that he thought he wasn’t good enough for me and my father made my throat tighten. Would I ever be able to convince him I loved him exactly how he was, not as a version of what he could be? That I didn’t want him to change at all?

It was a risk I was willing to take for Finn.

Finn was even better this time around, he was incredibly sweet and thoughtful. His fear and struggle to be what he thinks Carrie deserves was really heartbreaking, and the manner within which Jen illustrates this really helps us as the reader to connect with him. There was a lot more depth to his charcter this time around, and I really wanted to leap through my Kindle and attack hug the man. His relationship with Carrie was really intense on his side, his POV always made my heart flutter, you can see the anxiety and fear slowly bringing him down. Around 50% when things really start to kick off, I was completely enthralled because I just knew the worst was yet to come. Despite the communication between Carrie and Finn, and Jen portraying the situation as under control, there was a constant sense of foreboding overshadowing it all. I was sorely tempted to skip to the end, but obviously I'd never do something like that. You know how humans have a tendency to imagine something as ten times worse that what it really is, well the characters certainly did that but I definitely I think I had them beat with the crazy scenarios going through my head.

It was interesting seeing the other side of Finn's life as a marine, and that sense of foreboding seemed to increase as things progressed. I would have liked to see more between him and his father, clearly something is very wrong with the picture we're given so we're not just wondering about Carrie and Finn, but part of us is desperately wondering what the bloody hell is going on with Finn's dad. I really hope I'm wrong, because I'm definitely thinking the worst. The lengths Finn goes to in order to make sure his love for Carrie is unquestionable, made me smile and feel sad all at the same time (yes I know that doesn't make sense). It all just seemed so unfair, and lord knows he's done more than enough as it is, so I respected him all the more for willing to go through with it. I just wish they could catch a freaking break.

She really liked me just like I was, and that fucking amazed me.
“Then you’ll have this every year. Anything you want, it’s yours.”

Then maybe— just maybe…
We’d even get our happily ever after.

What I struggled with was the first 50% moving kinda slow, most of it was repetitive with both of them going on about how much they loved one another. Switching POVs was a little frustrating at this point because they both just reemphasized what they felt and said before, I wanted a lot more than that and the storyline definitely had the potential for that. The hookup on reaffirming their love for one another also took away from the bigger threat, I get why Jen did it but she definitely waited to long for things to be semi-revealed. Like I said a long with Carrie and Finn, we as the reader are just as anxious and frustrated to find out what was going on. I also felt the difference in Finn was a little weird, while he was all hunky and sweet his alpha persona was kinda absent. Finn being a bad-ass marine was one of the reasons I fell in love with him, and this time he was a little too lovey-dovey for me. Every time he said he sounded like a sap, I couldn't help but nod and sigh in resignation. There was also a lacking in background characters, while we learn and see more of Marie and Cory it felt like they walked into the scene and back out again. Plot line was much more focused on the main characters, while all well and good I think it needed the background characters to make it more rounded.

The ending was yet again another cliffhanger, but way more captivating than the last. It does not end well, and I'll admit I screamed 'Noooooo!' when it ended. Jen certainly knows how to keep you hooked for more. So where does my rating stand? 3.8 engaging stars. I stand by what I said in my review for Out of Line, this has a lot of potential and with the way it ended I think the best is yet to come. So I for one, cannot wait. This book will have you swooning, grinning, screaming and a little emotional.

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Willing Captive by Bella Aurora

3/12/2013

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Delilah “Lily” Flynn is used to her drab existence. Lily’s been living it for twenty two years.
Her boring life is suddenly turned on its head when she’s rudely kidnapped from her bedroom.
Or so she thinks.

Nox Taylor is far too high up in his field to be assigned a babysitting job.
There’s nothing more he wants than to complete his mission so he can be rid of the smartass tomboy, Lily.

Day after day, Nox watches Lily and her strange ways. She’s unlike any woman he’s ever met.
Getting close to the girl is purely for her own protection…right?

Lily never imagined she’d make her first real friends in captivity.
What lengths would she go through to keep them

The cover for this book is way misleading, and if you've seen it I know what you're thinking...you kinky bitches. Hey I thought the same, kind of. This is not a dark read, and definitely not captivity themed...think more along the lines of witness protection. Big bad-ass alpha hero with witty and humorous heroine, mixed with a dose of drama, comedy, romance and a drop of heartbreak. Where should I begin? Okay up until this book I have never heard of Belle Aurora (actually love the name), and yes this is a serious book junkie transgression because the woman's work is amazing! Minions, listen to me carefully. You need to read this book, like you could be kicked out of the book junkie club if you don't. I'm 100% serious. But I see you need to know why, and maybe a bit more convincing so shall we begin with Delilah, aka Lily?

I adored Lily from the beginning, having led a sheltered life due to a very overprotective family she dreams of more. Poor Lily, no one told her to be careful what you wish for. Because boom! Situation occurs and she's taken from home, separated from her family and freaked way the hell out. I'm not sure how I'd handle being kept captive, but Lily was absolutely brilliant. No-nonsense, sharp witted, funny and intelligent. She faced her captors head-on, being as difficult as she could be at first and who could blame her? I mean abducted for your own protection? Of course she does calm a little when the situation is explained, emphasis on the little because in no way does she make it easy. As she spends more and more time with her captors, she realizes they're not bad people and they're not going to hurt her. I have to say her dialogue and inner monologue was the absolute BEST! I fell in love with her, and could totally see a little of myself in her. Seriously Belle, you are a genius *claps hands* bravo! Don't get me started on her banter with Nox, I could go on forever because it was just perfect. You could feel the chemistry between them, and they were perfectly matched opponents who had you tapping away to see who would win the next fight.

Well, that’s that. Goodbye cruel world. Be sure to fuck thyself on the way out, you mean-assed son of a whore.

I snatch the radio out of his hands, press the button and almost shout, “Heavy flow! You know? For heavy flow, because I flow heavily during my menstruation cycle, because I’m a girl and that’s what we do.” He doesn’t respond, so pressing the button again, I add, “Bleedin’ for days here, Vito. I need comfort.”

Right now, we’re just Nox and Lily. Not protector and protected. The beach is deserted. And this is our happy place. Our bubble. Us against the world.

Oh Nox, you stubborn, arrogant, delicious specimen you. I'll admit the way he treated Lily at times pissed me off, but then he'd make up for it and I couldn't stay mad him. I mean I could understand his view point she was an assignment and there were certain rules and protocol to follow, but sometimes one must say to one's self 'Fuck the rules!' and carpe diem baby. Belle illustrated his inner struggle really well through his POV, and it was exciting tapping away at the pages waiting for him to break. Boy, does he break. I loved it. The lines between protector, friend and lover become so intensely blurred, and Nox definitely meets his match in his most taxing and unexpected mission to date. It was great getting his POV because we see he's made a lot of assumptions about Lily, and watching her prove him wrong was entertaining as hell, I wanted to high five her so many times.

Don't get me wrong when Nox surrenders a little to his feelings for Lily, we see that beneath the tough, broody, bad-ass exterior he's a charming teddy bear with a beautiful soft spot. There's nothing he won't do for Lily, even if it means putting himself in the line of fire. How could you not admire such a man? His inner monolgue was just as entertaining as Lily's, and I liked how we get to know the real Nox along with Lily. Watching it all unravel with her, we experience similar if not the same emotions and reactions which makes you feel really connected with the characters. I liked that Belle was able to orchestrate that, it's a sure sign of a talented author. The best thing about Nox was there was so much depth to his character, and it felt like each chapter revealed another layer, in fact Lily's character also carries a lot of depth which goes a long way in understanding and connecting with them. I think the best representation of this is through the last few chapters, where everything's raw emotion at it's best.

“We knew it was gonna get brought up eventually, princess. We can’t pretend forever.”
The bridge of my nose tingles and I whisper, “But I like pretending with you.”
He kisses the top of my head and murmurs into my hair, “Me too, baby. Me too.”

He mutters, “Maybe you want that. Maybe you like the idea of being a captive. Being helpless.” Leaning forward, the tip of his nose brushes my earlobe and he whispers, “Does that turn you on, princess?”

Feeling protective of my girl, I decide to let her in on one little secret. “Doesn’t matter where you are, baby. I’ll come for you.” She lifts her watery eyes to mine and I state confidently, “I’ll come for you.”

Although a stand alone, it would be awesome if Boo and Rock got a novella because I adored them. They were a big part of the story, and it's nice when the story doesn't revolve around the hero and heroine. Boo was the girlfriend Lily's always needed, and their relationship was just precious. I also loved the dynamics of Boo and Rock's relationship, it made me want to know so much about them hence my hopes for a novella. It was the last 20% or so of the book that took it to a whole other level, because while it seems and very much is in some cases a lighthearted, funny, romantic read, Belle completely blindsides you to the point of speechlessness. I was not expecting what happened, and I'll admit I cried. Once I stopped crying I decided I was going to hunt Belle down and cause some damage, because it just could not end like that and the way she plays it she doesn't even give you room to hope, maybe just maybe it's all a mistake. My reactions went a little something like this...

At first I was like...

Then I was like, Belle...

And then I was like...

It was hard but then I was like, Alii...

I obviously won't say how it ended, but I will say well played Miss Aurora, well played.

I've never used so many gifs, that alone should tell how awesome this book is and the effect it had on...although I'm guessing that's not lost on you. If you haven't already guessed my rating, you've not paid a great deal of attention. My rating stands at 5 incredible stars, and I definitely recommend to you. Belle is an author you want to keep an eye out for, her writing style is unique and runs effortlessly, it won't just be her characters you'll fall in love with. It's safe to say she's now on my 'Must Stalk' list, and I'm looking forward to her next book. This book will have you in stitches, huffing in frustration, gasping for air, swooning like a love sick teen, crying a river and screaming for joy. So what the hell are you waiting for?

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Beck (Corps #3) by Harper Sloan

Under Different Stars (Kricket #1) by Amy A. Bartol

Enslaved by the Ocean by Bella Jewel

For Real by Chelsea M. Cameron

Out of Time by Jen Mclaughlin

Willing Captive by Bella Aurora

Be a Minion

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