Immortal Flame (Hell to Pay #1) by Jillian David Review

Hey readers! Happy Monday. Hope you're all gearing up for an awesome Memorial Day weekend. I know I am! Before you get to the partying, I've got a new review to share with you all. I've been on a bit of a contemporary romance kick lately and thought it was time to switch it up. Thankfully I got an awesome review request from today's author that was just the ticket I was looking for. What are we raving about today? Immortal Flame by Jillian David. Here's a bit about the novel and our author before we get to my thoughts:

World War II veteran Peter Blackstone traded his soul so that his wife could live. That was 1945. Since then, Peter has lived an unnaturally long life as a hired killer, providing the life forces upon which Jerahmeel feeds to survive.

Doctor Allison La Croix has a big problem. She randomly sees people’s deaths. She has longed to be free of her twisted "gift" to live a normal life without fear of predicting yet another loved one's demise.

After a horrific accident, a severely injured Peter arrives in Allison’s ER. The vision Allison experiences when she touches him nearly kills her. He teaches her to block these devastating episodes as she finds a way to unlock his forgotten, passionate soul.

But Jerahmeel’s minion has orders to destroy Peter and anyone he loves. Will Peter’s and Allison’s shattered souls survive the devious plan? Or could their love save them both? Someone will have hell to pay.

     

Jillian David

Jillian David lives near the end of the Earth with her nut of a husband and two bossy cats. To escape the sometimes-stressful world of the rural physician, she writes while on call and in her free time. She enjoys taking realistic settings and adding a twist of “what if.” Running or hiking on local trails often promotes plot development.

Twitter | Goodreads | Website

*****

My Thoughts:

I'll be the first to admit that I love a good paranormal romance story, but it has to be special. Something I haven't seen a million times before. Something that will stick with me. Unique characters, an original plot, and a twit. It's been a good while since I found a good paranormal romance series with a hook that left me wanting more. Then Immortal Flame fell into my inbox.

I have to say, when it comes to stories with soldiers or vets as the main characters, I oftentimes will skip them. In my experience the authors generally rely too much on the what ifs and the traumatic past of the characters and we never really find a story to be told in the present frame. For that reason alone, I was more than a little hesitant to start Immortal Flame, but I am so glad I did.

From the opening chapter, I knew this one was different. David has done an absolutely incredible job of developing a unique plot through the emotionally driven character development. It's about so much more than love and romance when the Devil himself is the man you're forced to serve. When Peter traded his soul during his service in WWII so his wife could live, he never expected to face the trials he has for near seventy years. Forced into servitude, he is slated to spend eternity look for his one Meaningful Kill to fulfill his contract and set himself free. When Allison arrives in his life by mere chance, he realizes that there are more important things than freedom at stake. After all he's been through can he find love yet again? Is there another chance for his happiness?

I won't lie, Immortal Flame was strangely emotional for me. It's truly a tale of redemption and second chances. David does an incredible job with her character development. While Allison was a fantastic character to follow throughout the story, Peter was really the one the stuck with me. It isn't often in this genre we see a strong male lead that isn't completely conformed to the mold of genre convention, but David really shown bright in this aspect.

The story is a quick read full of action, reflection, and emotion enough to satisfy all readers. The paranormal element is certainly present but definitely a whole lot more mild than it could have been and I definitely appreciated that. The fact that David crafted a paranormal romance that didn't rely solely on the paranormal element, yet was still a wholly satisfying read really speaks volumes to her talent as an author. I know this reader will be more than excited about devouring the remainder of this series.

In the end, I was more than satisfied by my first read from author Jillian David, It was everything I was looking for in a short paranormal romance and then some. I definitely have no regrets in check out this unique tale! All-in-all, I am granting Immortal Flame a well-earned 4-star review. But don't take my word for it, head on over and grab a copy for yourself today. You won't regret it! Add it to your TBR today!

*****

Alright readers, that's all I have for you on the topic of Immortal Flame by Jillian David. A fun, quick read that left me definitely interested in checking out the remainder of the series. Be sure to add this paranormal romance to your TBR today. Special thanks to the author for supplying me with a copy in exchange for my honest review. Until next time, Happy Reading!

-Ethan

Dirty Sexy Secret (Green County #1) by Nazarea Andrews Chapter Reveal (Chapter One)

Exclusive First Look, Chapter One Reveal!

Hey readers, Ethan here with an exciting post for you today. I am so honored to be sharing an exclusive post for you guys today, promoting an upcoming series from one of my all-time favorite authors, Nazarea Andrews! Diving back into the world of adult contemporary, Andrews is gearing up to release a new series that I know will be a huge hit with her readers. Today's post will feature an exclusive first look at chapter one of Dirty Sexy Secret as well as info about the series! His a bit about the novel and Nazarea before we get to the exclusives!

Even when you know better….

There are a million reasons why Hazel Campton is off limits: she’s a journalist. I’m a cop. Oh, and she’s my foster sister.
My secret is I didn’t care. I haven’t stopped wanting her since I slept with her the night before she left.
She’s trouble. Always has been.

It’s hard to resist the thing you’ve always wanted…
Growing up with Brandon Archer means I know him. Good. Bad. Everything in between.
It’s just never mattered.
My secret? That night. The one I stole, that’s kept me from Archer and Green County, for four years.
Now I’m home, and nothing has changed. Except me. And not in the way that means a damn thing.
Because I still want him.

Everything can change with a knock at the door…
Secrets. Everyone has them. Archer. Me. This town.
Perfection only runs surface deep in Green County. When there’s a knock at me door, it’s a familiar face all covered in danger, and all those secrets we hide? They’re about to come tumbling out.

The first in a sexy new series about Green County, and the people who serve there.

COMING MAY 20, 2016

Nazarea Andrews 

Nazarea Andrews is an avid reader and tends to write the stories she wants to read. She loves chocolate and coffee almost as much as she loves books, but not quite as much as she loves her kids. She lives in south Georgia with her husband, daughters, and overgrown dog. She is the author of Girl Lost, Edge of the Falls, and The University of Branton Series. 

Find Nazarea Andrews

Website ** Twitter ** Facebook ** Goodreads *

*****

Exclusive Chapter Reveal

Dirty Sexy Secret, Chapter One:

Three killers, two cop, and a journalist walk into a bar.
Sounds like a bad joke, right? It's not.
It' the end-- dear god I hope it's the end-- of the worst two days of my life.
I just hope we all walk out alive.

Chapter 1.

Some people say you can't go home again.

And that is a complete pile of bullshit. You can. It just won't be home.

I should know. I did it.

Green County doesn't change. It's been four years since I bolted and six months since I sucked up all my pride and ego and came back. And it still struck me as strange. Green County was exactly the same. Same ridiculous festivals. Same leafy boulevards and parks filled with yoga moms and shrieking children. The same gossips line the coffee shop and eye me when I step in.

They'll chatter my every move to Eli later, cooing over him while warning that I was too skinny,
too wild too rude too too too.

They did the same thing in high school. It was just as fucking annoying then as it is now.

Nothing changed in Green Co. If you want change you go somewhere else and you let it wrap you up tight and fight like hell to keep from being dragged back.

Eli gets pissy when I say shit like that. But Eli never left Green Co. Never felt the need to get out, to see and shape the world. He's always been more than happy to see and shape the County.

And you know, he was right. He was good at it. I loved that he cared so much about Green Co. That he wanted to save the little Kansas county from itself.

Someone had too.

I flash the ladies a smile as I order two extra-large iced coffees. Cindy grins at me, punching in the order and adding a slice of banana bread and her boxed lunch.

“Long day, Hazel?”

I grin, a half quirk of my lips that passes as a grin these days. “It’s a day ending in Y, Cins. Those are always long.”

She gives me a smirk that tips toward worry. “You need a day off, sugar.”

I make a face, and drop a twenty on the counter as I take my order. “I don’t even know what I’d do with that much free time.”

She arches an eyebrow at me and I grin at her.

“Hazel, my love,” Gabe says, sailing through the door of the coffee shop as I turn away from the counter.

I swallow the grin before it twists into a smirk. “Gabriel,” I say, almost frosty and he laughs.

Smug bastard.

“We should carpool, love, if we’re going to keep meeting like this. Save the planet and all.”

“Because you care so much about the damn planet,” I scoff, and he makes a face, all wounded dignity.

The problem with that face is that I know Gabe. I've known him my whole life.

Gabe is everything I ran away from when I left Green County. Everything I wanted to forget. The smirk that means trouble and the too sharp eyes that sees right through my quick easy lies and watches with concern when I isolate.

Fucking bastard is my neighbor. He's too damn close for comfort and too damn nosy for his own good.

And coming from an investigative journalist, that's pretty fucking nosy.

I've got work, Gabe. So as much as I'd love to spar, I shift my boxes and nod at the door.


"Hazy" he says, and it draws me up. Because once, we were friends. We were impossibly close. He was my rock, and I threw him away. Because I was so fucking determined. To be more. To get out. I fucked up and I ran, and I left Gabe behind with all my other mistakes.

I always regretted that. Hurting Gabe.

"Wine night?" he asks, slightly pleading, and I flinch, falling back a step.

It's still too soon for that shit. And he sees it in my eyes.

His smile dips, just a little. Just enough that I notice. Because I know him better than he knows himself, and I can read his sadness in the line of his shoulders. 

"Maybe next week" I offer, shuffle stepping closer to the door. Aware of all the church ladies watching, and Cindy, standing at the counter, her lips pulled down in a frown, and worry.

And Gabe shrugs it off. Beams at me like a fucking lunatic, and nods.

Gives me the out.

I flash him a quick smile and move toward the door, and he steps to the side, giving me a sardonic smile.

Because he's Gabe.

And this is Green County.

And nothing here changes. Not really.

The door opens and Brandon Archer steps through, all long legs and wide shoulders and a face that’s so fucking pretty it’s almost painful. His green eyes, so expressive and alive find me, and go blank. And I almost drop my bags.

Because if there was ever a mistake I made, it was him.

Eli steps in a half step behind, and a half foot taller, all big smiles and big shoulders and big hands. My brother is big everything.

His eyes brighten when he sees me and he pushes past Archer to wrap me in a hug.

It’s been about twelve hours since I saw my foster brother, so of course he’s tackle hugging me in CinSations. While Archer watches, those moss green eyes probing me. I squeak and Elijah relinquishes me reluctantly. I drive an elbow in his gut. “Dumbass. You spill my coffee, you replace it.”

He doesn’t even blink. He just shoots a quick look at Archer, an eyebrow quirked in question.

Because of course they don’t talk. How silly. Why would they?

See—this right here? This is why I left. Because I can’t handle seeing the epic fucking bromance that is Elijah Beasley and Brandon fucking Archer.

I shift, and Archer smiles, a slow curling thing that I want to smack off his face. “Hazel, sugar, you need a hand?”

My smile feels more feral than sweet, and his eyes are sparkling, that fucking amused she’s so cute light I’ve seen for so many years. “Thanks, but Gabe is helping me. Right?” I side eye my friend who gives me this extravagant bow that doesn’t say, you just blew me off.

Thank Christ for Gabe.

I twist and give Archer a smug smile. “Have a good day, Officer.”

Gabe snorts at that as he takes my bag and one of my coffees. I think I’m in the clear. That I’m safe, and out of the danger zone that is Archer.

And then his hand closes around my arm, and it pulls me to a stop.

He’s always been ridiculously able to pull me to a complete stop with almost nothing. “You can’t hide in that farmhouse forever, Hazel,” he murmurs, and I flush.

Damn fair skin. A blush is too fucking easy to see and he’s always been too fascinated with pulling them from me. I can almost feel the low chuckle he gives as he lets me go, and I fall back a step.

It’s a retreat, and that’s just another reason I scowl at him. “Tell Eli I’m making dinner on Sunday. Mama Nora is coming over.” I push past him and Gabe slips an arm around my shoulder, ignoring Archer’s sharp spike in tension. “You aren’t invited,” I add, all sugar sweet.

And then I’m gone.

“Tension between you and Green Co’s finest, love?” He asks, and I should. I know I shouldn’t, but I relax into him, for a moment. Let all the years and time and secrets fall away and let him be my friend. Just for a moment.

“I’m not ready for this, Gabe,” I murmur, and he pushes a blond curl out of my eyes, watching me with those strange honey warm eyes of his. And then he nods.

“Ok. Not now. But we will talk. Soon. I just painted a target on my back and Archer’s never liked me to begin with. You owe me.”

I huff out a breath, and let my gaze dart up to him. Gabe gives me a patient, waiting look and I nod.

Because apparently things do change.

Gabe can grow up, even just a little.

“Ok. Tomorrow.” I say, and he nods. Brushes a kiss over my hair and hands me my bags as I slide into my truck.

And then he stands there, watching, braced between me and CinSations as I drive away. He was my best friend, a lifetime ago before I fucked up everything.

I wonder if maybe he could be again.

*****

Well what do you think? I know that this reader CANNOT wait. I'll be devouring this one as soon as I can get my hands on it. Any fans of Nazarea's will know this is not to be missed. Be on the lookout for more info on Dirty Sexy Secret as we get closer to release day. Thank so much to Nazarea and her team at InkSlinger PR for allowing me to participate. Until next time, Happy Reading!

-Ethan

Fringe Runner (Fringe Series #1) by Rachel Aukes Review

Hello readers and a very Happy Monday to you all! Ethan here with an exciting post for you all to kick off your week! I am so pumped to help one of my all-time favorites celebrate her newest release with the world. Launching today, this action-packed sci-fi series is sure to please fans cross-genres! What am I raving about? Fringe Runner, the first full-length novel in the Fringe series by Rachel Aukes! In addition to today being release day, I'm also sharing my review with you all. Before we get to that, here's a bit about the novel and our author:

The first novel in a new space adventure series!

After the colonization of Mars and Europa, it took us fewer than five generations to reach beyond our solar system and discover more planets capable of supporting human life. Too far away to be governed under Earth law, the Collective was formed. Several hundred years later, the Collective has expanded to a thriving system of six inhabited worlds.

Old captain Aramis Reyne and his ragtag crew on the Gryphon are runners, part of the Collective's interplanetary postal service. They deliver supplies to the farthest, darkest reaches of the Collective known as the fringe. After a warship captain confiscates one of their packages, Reyne discovers a galactic conspiracy involving military leaders, a secret organization, fringe rebels, and pirates…with the Gryphon’s crew stuck in the middle. Reyne must make an impossible delivery, and the entire Collective is at stake if he fails.

 

Rachel Aukes

Rachel Aukes is the international bestselling author of 100 Days in Deadland, which was named one of the best books of 2013 by Suspense Magazine and one of the best zombie books by the Huffington Post. She also writes romantic science fiction and fantasy under the pen name Berinn Rae, which includes the RWA award-winning short story "Stealing Fate," a USA Today recommended read. Rachel lives in Iowa with her husband and an incredibly spoiled sixty-pound lap dog. When not writing, she can be found flying old airplanes and trying (not so successfully) to prepare for the zombie apocalypse.  

 

Find Rachel Aukes

Website ** Twitter ** Goodreads

*****

My Thoughts:

Can I just start out this review by saying that I had absolutely no idea what I was getting myself into when it came to Fringe Runner. Let me tell you guys how many sci-fi or space opera books I had read previously... none. Nope. Not a single one. Sci-Fi is not usually my bit. I'm as nerdy as they come. I love Star Wars, I can tell you all about space and astronomy (I went to Space Camp, for goodness sakes), but when it comes to Sci-Fi novels, I've never been interested. It's always been one of those genres that I always assumed worked better in the visual media (film, television, video games, etc). Well folks, I was wrong. Once again I underestimated the great Rachel Aukes. 

Those of you who are new to my blog and reviews may not be familiar with Aukes, but anyone who has been around since the beginning will be well-acquainted with Aukes and her most recent series, the Deadland Saga. You see, Aukes has changed my life once before. Yes, I didn't say shelves. I said life. Prior to Aukes, I was very 'on the fence' about horror novels, especially anything regarding zombies. Through her literary masterpieces, Aukes made me a believer in the best of ways. Her eloquent writing style, paired with an ability to craft emotions so strong, Nicholas Sparks himself should be jealous, Aukes changed my literary landscape in indescribable ways. 

I'd let Aukes guide me through the unknown once before, but was I confident she could change my views on the Sci-Fi genre? It didn't take long for me to find my answer.

From the very first chapter, I was hooked.

Fringe Runner is one of the most unique and original novels I have read in a very long time. Leaping off the pages and into the most creative of fantasies my mind could conjure, Aukes weaves a tale full of suspense, action, and spectacular emotions that left me begging for more!

The very best part of Fringe Runner is that it's the perfect Sci-Fi read to get your feet wet. Whether your a seasoned pro or a beginner to the genre, you'll greatly appreciate the world Aukes has created. Why is it so perfect for new readers of the genre, you ask? One of the glowing stereotypes of a Sci-Fi space opera is the high fantasy-level of description the authors tend to pour into each volume, leading to a slow moving plot that requires far more attention than your average reader is willing/has time to commit to. Aukes totally wipes that stereotype off the slate by providing her readers a full glimpse into her world, including all necessary backstory and world-building, without making the experience a grueling one for the readers. She slips in all necessary knowledge by effortlessly weaving it within her narrative. 

A true testament to the talent of Aukes to break down the genre boundaries within the very first installment of this series.

I won't say too much about the plot in an effort to avoid spoilers, but I can tell you that while there are lots of details and character to keep track of, it's fairly easy to plot out the key players in the story. The plot is full of turmoil both on the action side and the emotional one. Aukes is no stranger to either action or emotion, so this series was sure to impress from the start. The ending to Fringe Runner left me pumped to see what she has in store for the next installment in the series. 

Aukes really nailed it with her characters in this one. Each character is different, paired with their own triumphs and personality (or physical) flaws. It's amazing to get into the minds of such a large cast of characters in a read of this size. We really learn so much about everyone in a way that doesn't veer far from the plot's intended path. One of my favorite things about a Rachel Aukes novel is that while you know they are intended for older, matured audiences, they aren't riddled with gore, harsh language, or explicit sex. Take note readers, Aukes is an author to watch! 

As mentioned before, I haven't read any sci-fi novels previously so I have very little to compare Fringe Runner to. What I can say is that I truly enjoyed the futuristic setting and technologies. They were described in short context, as though everything was not out of the ordinary. I think that made for a much more enjoyable experience. With this in mind, I was fully able to immerse myself into the plot and setting without worrying about the technicalities or 'realism' or the story. I dove in head first and came out with a new appreciation for both Aukes and the genre. 

As you can clearly see, I was absolutely blown away by Fringe Runner. My only complaint is that we have to wait for the next book in the series. I definitely could have used another hundred pages! It should come as absolutely no surprise that I am granting Fringe Runner by Rachel Aukes a near-perfect 5-star review. A perfect read for fans of the fantasy and sci-fi genres. Don't take my word for it, grab yourself a copy of Fringe Runner, available now from your favorite retailer. You will not be disappointed!

*****

Alright readers, that's all I have for you on the topic of Fringe Runner by Rachel Aukes. As you can see, this book was way out of my norm, but one that griped me from the opening chapter and refused to let go until the very last page. I have to say I was not expecting to love this read as much as I did, but I couldn't recommend it more highly. Be sure to add this one to your TBR today and make sure to wish our author a very happy release day and the best of luck with this new series. Here's to you, Rachel Aukes! Thanks so much for stopping by, until next time, Happy Reading!

-Ethan

Personal Apocalypse (The Hopeless World Book 1) by Nazarea Andrews Blog Tour (Review)

Hey readers! Ethan here with quite possibly one of my most exciting reviews of 2015! I always love when I devour an extremely anticipated novel and it turns out to be everything I was anticipating and more. This time I'm reviewing the first novel in the spin-off series to another of my all-time favorite series. On the chopping block this time? Personal Apocalypse by Nazarea Andrews. Today's stop on the blog tour will feature my thoughts on the novel as well as some awesome promo. Before we get to my thoughts, here's a bit about the novel and our author:

Josiah grew up in a dying world. The Holdout survived, but when you are the son of Sylvia Cragen, you give up delusions early. He knew that they would die bloody--it wasn't a matter of if. Only when.

Parker shouldn't be alive. He should have died long before scouts from the Last Holdout rescued him. And he knows better than to believe that sailing away from the safety of the Holdout is a good idea.

Now, without the Holdout to protect them, all of his nightmares are coming true. Josiah is just crazy enough to believe that a fresh start is a good thing. But Parker has lived as prey, hunted by zombies and survivors before--and he knows that no one really survives. In the wild, zombie claimed world outside the walls of safety, there is only the dead walking.

          

Nazarea Andrews

Nazarea Andrews is an avid reader and tends to write the stories she wants to read. She loves chocolate and coffee almost as much as she loves books, but not quite as much as she loves her kids. She lives in south Georgia with her husband, daughters, and overgrown dog. She is the author of Girl Lost, Edge of the Falls, and The University of Branton Series. 

Find Nazarea Andrews

Website ** Twitter ** Facebook ** Goodreads *

*****

My Thoughts:

As any of my regular readers will well know, Ethan here is not a huge fan of the zombie paranormal-sub genre. Well, I wasn't. Not until Nazarea Andrews. It's been a couple of years now since I was first introduced to Andrews and her incredible World Without End series, but I still cannot get over how incredible it was. When the series ended last summer, I was devastated to see a favorite of mine was finished. Imagine my shock and surprise when I discovered Andrews had an ace up her sleeve: a spin-off series!

Picking up right where the World Without End series finished, this new series, beginning with Personal Apocalypse continues to follow the story of life after Eli-Milan has decimated the planet, but with two new starring characters: Josiah and Parker. Anyone who finished the previous series will remember Finn (our former male-MC's) discovery of a brother and their interesting relationship. This first novel explores that relationship and really gives us an insight to the family dynamic we were really excited to discover in the previous series finale. While this is an entirely new series, we still have huge flashbacks from WWE. Nurrin and Finn are still major characters in Personal Apocalypse, but to avoid spoilers I won't mention too much there.

Now, this all being said, PA is an entirely new series. While a spin-off, it isn't necessarily imperative that you have read the previous series to understand what is happening. Andrews does an absolutely incredible job introducing her world to readers in a way that both series vets and new readers will be immersed into the world without being lost. It's an incredible novel to introduce you to this literary universe that Andrews has crafted.

One of my favorite parts about PA is that while it absolutely is full of the horror you would expect from a novel of this genre, you definitely don't have the gore and violence we've seen from her in the past. Why? Personal Apocalypse is just that. Personal. It's an extremely psychological read. Way more personal than I was expecting from Andrews and this new series. It's an emotionally gripping tale that will leave you hooked until the very last page.

I have to say that as much as I loved WWE, this new series is seriously a hard-hitter. Andrews has evolved so much as an author in the past few years that it is absolutely astounding to see the two compared. The characters in this series are definitely set to give Ren and Finn a run for their money as well. I can't say enough how absolutely blown away I was by Personal Apocalypse. It's truly a testament to the writing style of Andrews to be able to capture readers for so long and across series as she has.

Through emotional twists, horrific new terrain, and writing the history of a world we only thought we knew, Andrews blows the doors wide open with Personal Apocalypse. I know don't know about anyone else, but I know this reader was thoroughly impressed. It should come as no surprise that I am granting Personal Apocalypse a near-perfect 5-star review. Do not miss this opportunity to check out this read, add it to your TBR today! 

*****

Alright readers, that's all I have for you on the topic of Personal Apocalypse by the incredible Nazarea Andrews. As you guys can clearly see, I absolutely loved every page of this incredible novel and I absolutely cannot wait to see what Andrews does next with this series. This world she has built is one of my favorite literary realms and I know each installment is going to be better than the last! Huge thanks to InkSlinger PR for allowing me to be a part of the tour and supplying me with an ARC in exchange for my honest review. Until next time, Happy Reading!

-Ethan

Miss Frost Solves a Cold Case (Jayne Frost #1) by Kristen Painter Review

Hey readers! Ethan here with another review for you awesome folks. Tonight's review comes to us from one of my new favorite authors. A lady who honestly has crafted one of the most unique paranormal series I've ever read. Who? The incredibly talented Kristen Painter! I'm absolutely obsessed with her Nocturne Falls series so imagine how I felt when I learned of the spin-off! Up on the chopping block this time? Miss Frost Solves a Cold Case, the first installment in Painter's newest Jayne Frost series. Before we get to my thoughts, here's a bit about the novel and our author:

Welcome to Nocturne Falls, the town that celebrates Halloween 365 days a year.

Jayne Frost is a lot of things. Winter elf, Jack Frost’s daughter, Santa Claus’s niece, heir to the Winter Throne and now…private investigator. Sort of.

Needing someone he can trust, her father sends her undercover to Nocturne Falls to find out why employees at the Santa’s Workshop toy store are going missing.

Doing that requires getting to know the town, which leads to interesting encounters with a sexy vampire, an old flame, and an elevator that’s strictly off-limits. The more Jayne finds out, the more questions she has, but the answers lead her deeper into danger.

Will her magic save her? Or will she come up cold?

          

 Kristen Painter

Kristen Painter likes to balance her obsessions with shoes and cats by making the lives of her characters miserable and surprising her readers with interesting twists. She currently writes award-winning paranormal romance and urban fantasy.

Facebook | Twitter | Goodreads | Website

*****

My Thoughts:

Anyone who follows this blog knows that last year I was introduced to Kristen Painter and her Nocturne Falls series for the first time. I fell in love with every word and haven't looked back since. Wow. Just wow. I can't get enough. I've read and reread these novels so many times that I can't help but shout about them from the rooftops. You guys can't even begin to understand the excitement I felt upon learning that Painter was releasing a spin-off series in the same literary world! An awesome paranormal mystery series that was sure to impress, but would it have the same impact as Nocturne Falls?

Absolutely!

I have to say that I really didn't know what to expect when I started this one. While it lives within the world Painter has crafted through five previous novels, it definitely blazes a trail all its' own. From the very first chapter we're introduced to an entirely different type of paranormal creature: elves. Not just any elves: Winter Elves. North Pole-Santa-Winter Wonderland kind of elves. With all the paranormal awesome that Painter has unleashed previously I shouldn't have been surprised by this bold move by Painter, but it definitely surprised me in the best possibly way. I love Christmas so having the chance to intermingle that Christmas theme with Nocturne Fall's Halloween spirit was an amazing combination!

I have to say, I think the characters in this novel were some of my favorite from Painter yet, particularly Jayne. Jayne Frost, daughter of Jack Frost and niece to Kris Kringle himself, is about as awesome as heroines come. She's intelligent, independent, and pretty doggone fearless. It was really awesome to read such a well rounded character's development through the story. One of my favorite parts about Painter and her writing style is that she can craft an incredible story full of amazing characters without bogging the stories down with details. It's very evident to me, as a reader and fan, that Painter is in love with her stories as it shows. They're non-stop fun from start to finish. But back to the characters, Painter doesn't mess around with convention or the confines the genre may present. She gives us the characters she wants to write and for that I have mad respect. The supporting cast of this first novel was awesome and while I was on the fence about some character, I really grew to appreciate each of them by the novel's gripping finale. 

Painter continues to knock it out of the park with her settings within Nocturne Falls. I never know what she'll come up with next. I actually am kind of hoping for some sort of Nocturne Falls map one day, I know it'd sure be a place on my bucket list to visit. We see many familiar faces in this novel and travel to places we've seen before. Except this time we get to see them with an entirely new set of eyes and in a mystery aspect. When everyone is a suspect, Nocturne Falls turns into quite a different place!

Above all, this read was just great fun. It was a fast read that I devoured in one sitting. I cannot wait to see what direction Painter takes with the remainder of this series. I know that this reader will absolutely be devouring each passing installment. This being said, it should come as no surprise to anyone that I am granting Miss Frost Solves a Cold Case a glowing 5-star review. An excellent start to what I know will be an incredible new series from Painter! Don't miss out, add this one to your TBR today!

*****

Alright folks, that's all I have for you today on the topic of Miss Frost Solves a Cold Case by the incredible Kristen Painter. It's always such a pleasure to devour one of her latest releases. Huge thanks to Kristen and her team for supplying me with a copy in exchange for my review and to all of you for stopping by! Until next time, Happy Reading!

-Ethan

Adapted for Film by Stacey Rourke Review

Hey readers, Ethan here on this Monday to bring you a review for a novel I absolutely devoured recently. A new adult contemporary romance read that kept me reeling from cover to cover. What are we raving about today? Adapted for Film by the incredible Stacey Rourke! Before we get to my thoughts, here's a bit about the novel and our author:

Aubrey Evans is living every author’s dream; her sizzling romance novel is being turned into a blockbuster film. She would be celebrating this momentous event, if she wasn’t busy fighting over every tiny production detail with the maddeningly cavalier director, Kole Camden.

When news of their heated rivalry hits the gossip columns, drastic measures must be taken to save their sinking project. In an elaborate PR hoax, she is publicly linked to Greyson Meyers, the swoon-worthy star of her movie. A whirl-wind love affair is staged for the couple to mirror the steamy chapters of her own books.

Can the introverted author resist the charms of Hollywood’s sexiest leading man? Or will love find her in the City of Angels?

          

Stacey Rourke

RONE Award Winner for Best YA Paranormal Work of 2012 for Embrace, a Gryphon Series Novel

Young Adult and Teen Reader voted Author of the Year 2012
Turning Pages Magazine Winner for Best YA book of 2013 & Best Teen Book of 2013

Stacey Rourke lives in Michigan with her husband, two beautiful daughters, and two giant, dogs. She loves to travel, has an unhealthy shoe addiction and considers herself blessed to make a career out of talking to the imaginary people that live in her head. She is currently hard at work on the continuations of this thrilling Legends Saga, as well as other literary projects.

* Facebook * Twitter * Goodreads * 

*****

My Thoughts:

Here lately I've been in the biggest book slump I have ever encountered. Read after read has left me disappointed to the point of me not even wanting to review them. I knew I needed something different or I was going to crash and burn. My salvation came in the form of a little romantic-comedy that I never saw coming. Form the mind of an acclaimed dark-young adult author, I never imagined I'd find laughs between the pages of a contemporary romance. Stacey Rourke is truly a jack of all trades in the book world.

I'll admit that when it comes to Adapted for Film, I was really surprised by how much I did enjoy it. It's full of both characters and situations of which I have no knowledge and lifestyles I couldn't tell you the very first thing about. I'm a country born and bred guy from the Missouri bootheel, Hollywood and NYC are a totally different world than the one I'm living in. Thankfully, Rourke didn't bog down the story with the glitz and glamour of the city life, she used quick wit and a fast pace to weave a tale full of laughs and reflection, with a positive message gleaming from the marquee.

I will be completely honest and say that when it came to the plot, I was confused about what was happening and who was involved more than I would have liked. I can't exactly explain why that is without giving away huge spoilers, but I can say there were a lot of characters in this short story. While I can definitely approve of a huge cast, it made for some confusion in such a short read. Once I was able to wrap my mind around exactly what was happening (this is one of those books you just have to keep reading until it finally dawns on you), I was really able to immerse myself into the plot and enjoy it fully. Adapted was a quick read that packed a huge punch!

When it came to the characters, Rourke really knocked it out of the park. As I mentioned before, there's a large cast involved, but it's out main character Aubrey that really takes the cake. Aubrey is a renowned romance author who doesn't even believe in the power of love. Ironic, right? When Aubrey's bestselling novel is slated to be Adapted for Film, she's whisked away from her introverted life in NYC and thrust into the Hollywood limelight and chaos ensues. As someone who works intimately within the book industry, I loved reading Aubrey's character develop. I saw so much of my author friends within her thoughts, speech, and actions. It was really a treat. Her character development was handled perfectly and by the end, I wasn't ready to say goodbye.

You may be thinking, 'a romantic comedy novel about the author of a bestselling romance novel that is being adapted into a romantic comedy film' sounds a little crazy, and I'll admit, at times it definitely was. In the end it was well worth the read and had me laughing out loud on more than one occasion. This was Rourke's first foray into contemporary romance, but I seriously hope it is not her last! 

With witty dialogue, amazing twists, and a well-developed cast of characters, Adapted for Film is a breath of fresh air to the romance-genre. With all this being said, I am so excited to be granting Adapted for Film a well-deserved 4-star review. While it may not have been the perfect romance read for me, I still had an absolute blast reading it and hated to put it down! Be sure to add this one to your TBR today!

*****

Alright readers, that's all I have for you on the topic of Adapted for Film, but don't worry, I've got THREE more reviews for Stacey Rourke coming at ya real soon. Stacey has quickly become a favorite author of mine and I absolutely cannot wait to see what she's got coming next! Make sure to add this on to your TBR today. Until next time, Happy Reading!

-Ethan

Under His Skin by Stacey O'Neale Cover Reveal + Giveaway

For a Limited Time, you can pre-order UNDER HIS SKIN for only $0.99!!!

Earth girls are never easy. But they're worth it. Bakery owner Annabelle Sparks' business is booming ever since she won reality TV's Cupcake Wars. The one thing deflating her happy soufflé? The extremely sexy Kaden Chance only sees her as a best friend-and Annabelle wants so much more. After waiting a year for him recognize their chemistry, she's giving up and dating other people. What she doesn't know is Kaden's heart doesn't actually beat. He's not human. Heck, he's not even from Earth. To retain his intergalactic immunity, no one can ever know he is an extraterrestrial. But when Annabelle starts dating, something strange happens to Kaden's unmoved heart: it begins to beat. Now he faces an impossible choice-tell Annabelle the truth and be deported-or lose his last chance at love.

Release Date: September 21, 2015

Pre-order Here: Amazon | Barnes & Noble

Enter the $100 Amazon or Barnes & Noble Gift Card Contest

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Black Collar Queen by AN Latro Release Day Launch

We’re having a release day launch for AN Latro’s Black Collar Queen, the second book in her mafia romance, Black Collar Syndicate. She’s sharing an excerpt with us, as well as a fantastic giveaway!! And for a limited time, grab the entire series at a sales price!!

 

Exclusive Excerpt: Every eye in the room is on him, standing in the spotlight as he always has, yet representing so much more. The tension is palpable, the anticipation and, yes, the fear. He smiles, looks down at the wood for just a moment, then back into the faces of his empire. His. Empire. He finds her in the crowd and she smiles for him, a tiny affirmation. “We have endured a very savage time.” His voice amplifies over the crowd, and it is gentle—so very gentle. “We have endured a lot of uncertainty. But we have endured. I understand if you are uneasy, and that's why I've called for this meeting. I want you all to know where I stand. To this day, there are things that I don't know, details I may never understand about the way life was here while I was gone. That's why, from this moment, all of you who are under this roof have a clean rap. If you were my enemy, I grant you pardon.” He pauses for a moment as the shock and outrage slingshot around the room. His expression never changes as he lets his words sink into sense. In her corner, Emma isn’t watching him. Her gaze is tracking the family, watching expressions. No one notices her—no one ever has, and even now, she is hiding behind her demure façade, and helping him by watching the family he is so adamant about trusting.

 

Claiming the Morgan Syndicate was supposed to be the hardest part—but now they have to keep it. Seth Morgan has taken his place as the head of the Morgan syndicate, with his cousin Emma by his side. But the change of regime came at a heavy price: Emma’s mother is missing, and the Oliver syndicate wants Emma’s head on a platter. And there are secrets—skeletons from their parents coming to haunt them. Seth is moving pieces, struggling to keep Emma safe and peace in the city while Emma alienates her lover and grapples with her past. With threats on every side, and unable to trust their allies, Emma makes a misstep that could cost more than the syndicate is willing to pay: the life of it’s young queen.

Buy Links: Amazon | Barnes and Noble

 

Series Buy Links:
  Black Collar Empire Amazon | BN
  Black Collar Beginning: New York Amazon | BN
  Black Collar Beginning: Cuba Amazon | BN

 

About AN Latro:

I loathe writing bios. So let’s play a game. One of these three are true… AN Latro lives in Ireland with her dog and cat and an over abundance of books. She loves solitude and boy bands, and hearing from readers. AN Latro lives in Florida, where the ocean is her favorite muse. She enjoys wine and tequila, and old movies about the mafia. She loves hearing from readers on Facebook and Twitter. AN Latro is the pen name of two friends. They love hearing from readers, and are usually getting into trouble with new ideas for the syndicate.

  Links: Blog | Facebook | Twitter | Instagram  

 Enter AN's giveaway! a Rafflecopter giveaway  

Past Heaven by Laura Ward Release Day Launch + Review

Happy Monday everyone! I have a very special post for you guys today! Last week, I sat down and read an ARC from one of my new favorite authors. An author who absolutely blew me away with her debut novel last summer, Mrs. Laura Ward. Today Laura is releasing her newest novel, an adult contemporary romance that I enjoyed WAY more than I expected to. Everyone get your party hats on, today we are celebrating the Release Day Launch of Past Heaven by Laura Ward! Here's a bit about the novel and our author, as well as the purchase links to get you ready:

Past Heaven

Publisher: Self-Published

Release Date: January 26, 2015

Genre: Adult, Contemporary, Romance

Not every love story has a happy ending. Some just change your life.

Liz Atwater’s happily ever after was torn from her the instant her husband, Jack, was murdered. She is forced to pick up the shattered pieces of her life and raise her three young sons alone.

Reynolds Carter’s picture perfect Hollywood life ended the moment the paparazzi got hold of his girlfriend’s cheating scandal. As he watches his life unfold in the tabloids, he comes to a crossroads in his career and his purpose.

When Reynolds takes on the challenge of a new project, his world collides with that of Liz. Neither of them expected their professional relationship to evolve into friendship, or love.

But life is never simple.

Faced with complications from family, friends, and colleagues, Liz and Reynolds are left to decide whether two people from such different worlds can find happiness together.

Can they get past the pain, fear, and guilt and risk their hearts to love again?

Not every love story is just a happy ending. Some completely change your life.

Laura Ward

Laura Ward lives in Maryland with her loud and very loving three children and husband. She married her college sweetheart and is endlessly grateful for the support he has given her through all their years together, and especially toward her goal of writing books. When not changing diapers, driving to lacrosse practice, or checking spelling homework, Laura is writing or reading romance novels.  

Find Laura Ward

FACEBOOK | TWITTER | GOODREADS

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My Thoughts:

I feel like this is becoming a more and more common way to start out my posts, but I'm actually not complaining: I am not a fan of the romance genre, but this read made me a believer. I feel like I should start my posts with a new statement, how about: As a male, the romance genre is not my first pick, however, after reading some incredible reads as of late, my thoughts on the genre are slowly, but surely changing? How does that sound? Haha.

I don't hate romance, I just don't want to read it. I'm a guy. That should make sense to most people. I have said numerous that I make exceptions on a case-by-case basis. When I make an exception for romance novels, it has to be something that sounds amazing to me. Something that I truly think will change my views on the genre. I'll be doggoned if Laura Ward hasn't done just that, twice. TWICE.

You guys may remember a few months ago where I read and reviewed Not Yet and it ended up being one of my favorite NA reads ever. It was equal parts mind blowing and emotional. Seriously, Laura hit me hard with that read. It should come as no surprise that when she messaged me to ask if I;d be interested in reviewing her second novel, Past Heaven, that I said yes without hesitation.

Before I get too far into specifics, I will say that this was the first 'adult' romance novel I have ever read. I have to say that I actually liked it a whole lot more than more NAs I have read. The story line was so much more mature and relatable than others I have read. It was a refreshing experience for me all the way around! Let's jump into it:

Plot. I have to say that the synopsis for this story really does not do it justice. From the very first chapter, I was hooked. Out story is told in a dual-POV format in one of the most unique ways I have seen. I'm not really sure what made it so different, but it really was unlike others I have read. The prologue and epilogue are told from the POV of a very important secondary character, which really gave the story an 'outsiders' POV at the two most important times. A very interesting twist.

Now when I was finally able to decipher what the book was about, I had this moment of this is def not realistic. Well, I was wrong. Maybe I've never seen the glamour of the Hollywood life that Reynolds Carter experiences, but I can tell you that this is exactly how I pictured it. Honestly, it's so hard to describe any of this without giving away the themes/tone of the novel.

One thing that really worked well for me in the story was the way the lot eventually shifted to revolve around the changed in the Atwater's lives, particularly the lives of the Liz's three young sons. As the oldest of three children raised by a single parent, that really hit home for me. Ward does an incredible job of placing all of her characters in interesting places within the plot to bring forth maximum feels. And let me tell ya, I caught the feels. SEVERAL times.

Characters. I'm not married. I'm not a parent. I'm not a Hollywood superstar, and I never will be. That being said, was still able to relate to the characters in this novel? Hell yes I was. It's been a long time since a cast of characters touched me the way those in Past Heaven have. Through heartbreaks and triumphs, I was able to feel every emotion Ward wrote.

While I, again, can't say much, I will say without hesitation that Liz's three sons were the best part of the novel for me. Wow. I can't even begin to describe how pivotal they are to this novel, I really do not believe it could have worked without them. Cindy was a phenomenal addition to the cast and really played the best friend/comedic relief role to perfection. Liz has literally been through hell and back in her life and it was so refreshing to see a novel where she wasn't facing all of her hardships completely alone. Liz is a very strong character emotionally and extremely mature, I had so much respect for her in this film. Reynolds was a character that really surprised me. Normally characters such as his are the ones I detest, but in this instance he ended up being one of my favorite parts of the entire novel. He grows so much as a character and by the end of the novel, I was completely blown away at his character development.

Another thing Ward has done that has really opened my eyes and given her a special place in my bookish-heart is her inclusion of individuals with Intellectual Disabilities. She did it first with Not Yet and has now done it again in a HUGE way with Past Heaven. The way Laura weaves these unique and amazing individuals into her seamless storytelling is just one of the many amazing kudos I can give to this incredible woman. Laura isn't just an author, she an advocate for a better world and for that, I give her the highest of praises both on the page and off.

Setting. This books jumps between several places. Liz's small town life on the east coast and Reynolds busy life in bustling Hollywood are the two main settings, but we see so much more than one would expect. Instead of seeing the negatives of all the settings as you do in most novels, Ward really does her best to show the positive sides of all walks of life. I think one of the most special parts of this read for me was seeing that celebrities, no matter how big, are still just people. They feel the same emotions and go through many of the same hardships as the average Joe. They just have more money! Seriously though, that was such an interesting take on superstardom and I really appreciated that insight. From the cities the story weaves between other fun settings including western ranches and Atlantic beaches. Ward's setting are so intricate that it takes little to no effort to place yourself right within the story. Particularly that of the Atwater home. Wow, I feel like I lived there by the end of the story, I could see it all so perfectly!

Theme/Tone. I have a whole lot of thoughts to add in this category, but after rewriting what I have already written, I think I've touched on most of them. I would like to add a few of the overarching themes. Family- Liz and Reynolds both have vastly different family. It was so interesting to see how their dynamics and definitions of the term changed over the course of the novel. It was really great. Survivors Guilt- Liz has massive survivors guilt and depression after the loss of her husband. It was definitely to be expected, but I have a feeling this story will really hit home to those who have been in similar situations. The innocence of youth- Liz's children go through a lot in this novel, especially with the sudden inclusion of Reynolds in their lives. Seeing their development in this story really touched me. It was incredible to witness. This is not a happy novel. I mean, think about it. What do you expect? It's an awful thing that has happened to this family, but I can tell you that they pull through their hardships in the greatest way possible: together. Seriously.

The one last thing I'd like to touch on in this novel was the overall maturity of the story. As I mentioned at the beginning of this post, this is the first adult romance I have ever read. I am so used the NA genre, that I forget there is an entire genre dedicated to life post-college. You know, real life. I have always strayed away form these reads for a number of reasons, but after Past Heaven, I have decided to open my eyes a bit more to the genre. I do love a good YA or NA story, but to be completely honest, they are some of the most unrealistic and immature novels that I read. It was so incredibly refreshing to read about real people with real life problems. People with issues and who's number one source of rectifying them isn't sex. How great is that? Mature adults who are seeking adult solutions to life's problems? I can get on board that train any day of the week.

All-in-all, it should come as no surprise to anyone who is reading this that I am giving Past Heaven by Laura Ward a near-perfect 5-star review. Note that I didn't have a single negative critique of this read. I really just didn't. By the time I closed the final pages, I felt complete. Laura Ward has truly delivered a literary masterpiece. Kudos to you Laura Ward and thank you for another absolutely incredible novel. I cannot wait to see where you go from here! You are slowly, but surely, changing my mind about the romance genre and for that I thank you. Thanks for adding class, not trash, to a genre that have severely gone downhill in the past few years. Authors like you are forever changing the landscape for the better and I couldn't be more excited! Keep up the amazing work!
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Alright everyone, that's all I have for you on the topic of Past Heaven by Laura Ward, one of my top reads so far this year! If you guys are looking for something refreshing to pull you out of your reading slump, definitely check this one out! I know that I cannot wait for this read to hit the masses! Everyone join me in wishing Laura Ward the greatest release day yet! Have you already gotten your copy of Past Heaven? Let me know in the comments below!

Special thanks to our author, Laura Ward, for supplying me with a copy in exchange for an honest review. You are awesome lady!

Until next time, Happy Reading!

-Ethan