Review: Tempest by Julie Cross

Book: Tempest by Julie Cross
Series: Tempest Trilogy #1 
Genre: Young Adult / Fantasy
Buy A Copy: Amazon | Barnes & Noble | The Book Depository
Available Formats: Ebook / Hardcover
Publication Date: January 17th, 2012
First Sentence:  "How far back should I go?"
How Did I Get This Book:  From Publisher, For Review
Edition Review: ARC
Description: The year is 2009.  Nineteen-year-old Jackson Meyer is a normal guy… he’s in college, has a girlfriend… and he can travel back through time. But it’s not like the movies – nothing changes in the present after his jumps, there’s no space-time continuum issues or broken flux capacitors – it’s just harmless fun.

That is… until the day strangers burst in on Jackson and his girlfriend, Holly, and during a struggle with Jackson, Holly is fatally shot. In his panic, Jackson jumps back two years to 2007, but this is not like his previous time jumps. Now he’s stuck in 2007 and can’t get back to the future.

Desperate to somehow return to 2009 to save Holly but unable to return to his rightful year, Jackson settles into 2007 and learns what he can about his abilities.

But it’s not long before the people who shot Holly in 2009 come looking for Jackson in the past, and these “Enemies of Time” will stop at nothing to recruit this powerful young time-traveler.  Recruit… or kill him.

Piecing together the clues about his father, the Enemies of Time, and himself, Jackson must decide how far he’s willing to go to save Holly… and possibly the entire world.

Tempest by Julie Cross is the story of Jackson, a 19 year old guy who just happens to have the ability to time travel. It's definitely an exciting story that keeps you on your toes.

I was a bit worried I would have a difficult time keeping everything straight with all the time traveling. You see, there are all of these different rules and loopholes about time traveling that make it kind of an intimidating setup. Sometimes when Jackson travels back to the past it’s almost like a memory – he doesn’t really change the outcome. He can alter the past while he is in it, but it doesn’t change the future. But sometimes, once he starts getting the hang of time traveling he really can change things around. This means when he has interactions with people during a time jump, they sometimes remember it and they sometimes don’t - but Jackson always does. Am I confusing you yet? Honestly, I was intimidated by the whole thing, but it’s not hard to keep track us. Cross does a great job establishing the parameters of each time jump as well as the outcomes. I can see how it could get confusing when reading the next book, simply because everything won’t be fresh in your mind. I can just picture myself thinking, “does this person know that? I remember it happening, but did it still happen?” 

Now I loved the concept of Tempest and I loved most of the plot. My main issue with the storyline is that we don’t really get a concrete vision of Holly and Jackson. Yes, their relationship takes center stage in the story, and we do see them together a lot, but it’s with all of these different versions of Holly. Let me explain – we’re back to the whole time travel thing. There are two main Holly’s in the book; 007 Holly and 009 Holly (Holly from 2007 and Holly from 2009). When the story begins, Holly and Jackson are living in 2009 and if I remember correctly met earlier that year. Well after some time travel gone haywire, Jackson gets stuck in 2007. He seeks out 007 Holly, but she obviously doesn’t remember him, because she hasn’t met him yet.  So we’re got these two different versions of Holly, which mean, really we have two different relationships. So as a reader, it’s hard to come to grips with what their relationship actually is and how they are together.  I know that I liked them well enough, but with two different Holly’s it really throws a monkey wrench in things.  Honestly, I don’t know what I would have preferred happen. I did like the both Hollys and I liked Jackson with both of the Hollys. It was just hard to separate the Hollys from one another. I guess it would be different in 2009 Holly remembered 2007 Holly and Jackson, but she doesn’t.  And there I go confusing you again. 

Now, let’s talk about my favorite aspect of Tempest. There is this whole mystery/espionage thing incorporated into the story and let me just tell you – it is awesome.  Jackson not only has to try and figure out how to control thing time traveling ability, he also has to unravel this mystery surrounding his life and the people around it. As the story progresses, he uncovers more and more secrets that make him question who he can really trust. Honestly, it’s incredibly exciting. There is another surprise around every corner and believe me; it all makes the mind reel.

I’m going to be straight with you guys, Tempest was awesome. It’s absolutely brimming with adventure, mystery and excitement. What am I looking forward to the most about the next book? Courtney. I caught that foreshadowing, Julie Cross.  So bring it. Seriously everyone, you won’t be disappointed, go find yourself a copy right now!

Favorite Quotes

Bad. Very Bad. Absolute wrong thing to say. I cringed, waiting for her to shout or grab another shoe to launch in my direction. 

"I don't mind hearing your secrets, even if they're sad."

Maybe it wasn't good and evil, but a whole bunch of gray area. 

Her scream was deafening and I went into machine mode as I jumped. Not through time, but an actual jump. Off the roof. 

I squeezed my arms around her so tight, I don't know how she kept breathing.

"I'm trying not to think about what we just saw, but I have a feeling therapy is in my near future."

Review: With My Last Breath by Courtney Cole

Book: With My Last Breath by Courtney Cole
Series: The Bloodstone Saga #3
Previous Books in the Series: Every Last Kiss (#1), Fated (#2)
Genre: Fantasy / Young Adult / Time Travel
Buy A Copy: Amazon | Barnes & Noble
Available Formats: Paperback / Ebook
Publication Date: September 1st, 2011
First Sentence:  "I was floating in a dark place, a place where I was all alone."
How Did I Get This Book:  Kismet Book Tours
Description: Just when Harmonia thought she had saved everyone she loved, the unthinkable happens and her life is shattered… in the space of just one breath.

Now, she is left alone to shoulder a challenge, because she alone can fulfill a prophecy and restore Olympus. She knows she can succeed; she is the daughter of gods, after all. But will doing so cause her to lose herself?

To find Zeus’ sword, she is forced to return to a place that she knows will cause her pain. But she willingly goes in order to save everyone she loves, because pain alone cannot kill her. Or can it?

At the time of writing this review I have already finished reading the entire Bloodstone Saga. That being said, With My Last Breath is easily my favorite.
 
Whenever I begin one of these books, I play a little game. I never read the descriptions or reviews, because I want to be surprised by where the characters end up. First it was ancient Egypt, then it was ancient Greece. Now.... Camelot! I've loved each setting (Cole definitely knows how to pick them) but what can be better than Camelot?

Not only does With My Last Breath have a great setting, but it also features some amazing character development. Over the past few books we've gotten to know Harmonia rather well, but we've been kept in the dark about Ares and Aphrodite. Sure, we've encountered their human versions, but we were never really introduced to them as gods. Well, in this third installment, that all changes. Ares and Aphrodite are fully awakened and are their godly selves throughout the entire course of the book. Harmonia, Ares and Aphrodite all poses the knowledge of their true forms and it certainly makes for an interesting time. It's incredibly entertaining to see them struggling to fit in within Camelot. 

It is also nice to see their relationships with each other. In the past books,  they've all known each other; but they were held back by the societal constrictions at the time and their forms at the time. Harmonia didn't have a maternal relationship with Aphrodite because in their past lives they weren't mother and daughter; likewise with Harmonia and Ares. Now, we get to see their bonds at full strength.

I've always enjoyed all of the characters, but now I feel like I know them better. I am particular fond of Ares. He may just be my favorite. I love the contradictions within him; he's the god of war, but he is so delicate and thoughtful with Aphrodite and Harmonia. Plus, he's a total cut-up. Aphrodite is quite amusing as well. I've never really liked her in Greek mythology (or in an retellings),  but Cole did a remarkable job with her.

Honestly, I don't know what else to say about this. It's amazing - just like the first two books. I plot is exciting, intriguing, creative and incredibly imaginative. And the love story. Oh, I just adore Camdus and Harmonia. They go through so much that you just want to see them finally happy. Can you imagine being reincarnated for thousands of years and having every one of your lives end in tragedy? If anyone deserves a happy ending it's these two. 


If you haven't started this series yet, I really recommend that you do. It's amazing and I promise that you won't regret it!

Favorite Quotes

Cool hands grasped my shoulders and tried to pull me away from Camdus, but I wouldn't have it. I was going nowhere. I clutched his shoulders, breathing him in. I was determined to stay with my husband no matter what. They would have to pry me away. And then someone did.

Her bones felt thin and hollow beneath my fists, but her frailty didn't deter me. I wanted her to feel my pain.

The thought of his mind wandering while long sharp objects were trying to knock him off his horse alarmed me.

You're much too pretty to be bloody.

Perfect. I would have an unbalanced psychopath on my hands armed with immortal supernatural power. This night kept getting better and better.

"I do not give a rat's front teeth about decorum right now," my father enunciated clearly and loudly. "I have a hole in my side! Have you not noticed?"

He looked at me for a moment, studying my face. What I had requested was very brazen for these times, something a lady would never do. But I wasn't a lady. I was a goddess and I would do whatever the hell I felt like doing.

My screams were loud enough to reach the corners of the earth.

"I can never watch you die again," I cried as tears streaked down my cheeks and fell onto him "I cannot do it. Are you listening?"

Review: Parallel by Claudia Lefeve

Book: Parallel by Claudia Lefeve
Series: Travelers #1
Genre: Fantasy / Young Adult
Buy A Copy: Amazon | Barnes & Noble
Available Formats: Ebook
Publication Date: August 2011
First Sentence: "Like any orphan, I wished that someday my real family would come for me."
How Did I Get This Book: Blog Tour / Kismet Book Tours
Description: Destiny has a way of catching up.

Saddled with powers she doesn't understand, Etta Fleming's world is turned upside-down the day she meets Cooper Everett, the man who transports her to an alternate reality. A reality she was meant to be a part of.

One minute, she's an orphan living at Dominion House for Girls, an institution for delinquent foster kids, then finds herself attending the exclusive Dominion Hall Academy.

Plucked from the only world she's ever known, Etta now has to deal with an aunt she never knew, a boyfriend she doesn't know, and a best friend who can't know.

PARALLEL is the first book in the Travelers Series. 

If I could describe Parallel in one word it would have to be gripping. I read the complete book in one sitting.

I did have a hard time following the concept of “traveling”. You see, the book centers around the idea of parallel universes; Etta learns that she was hidden in an alternate universe for her own protection. She is then brought back to her original dimension. But nobody knew she was missing for years. Are you confused? I was too. Then, Lefeve added in the concept of time travel to the mix and I was completely lost. 

The thing is, I really enjoyed the storyline. It was incredibly creative and I really wanted to be able to grasp everything that was happening. I am going to have to go back and reread it at some point; I feel like this is the sort of book you will never quite understand the first time around.

Etta was likable enough, but still did not really stand out to me. Lefeve has created an interesting enough base for Etta and I am hoping that she will really blossom in the next storyline. In Parallel, Lefeve is able to do some character building, but the main focus is setting up the world. Well, worlds. It’s a lot to take in and unfortunately, it causes the characters to fall a bit flat.

However, they all have a great deal of potential. I am particularly interested in the relationship between Cooper and Etta. There is a twist involving the pair at the end that is sure to surprise readers. I did see it coming, but now I am left with each more questions. 

To be perfectly honest with you, I really enjoyed Parallel. Yes, I have about a gazillion questions, but hopefully they will be answered in book two. My only complaints are that the characters were a bit flat and the ending isn’t really much of an ending. I felt like it should have kept going; I did not get much closure at all. Things were just picking up and then Lefeve hit me with the dreaded “to be continued…”. But, in the grand scheme of things, Parallel was exciting, creative and thought provoking. I would not call it a light-read (my mind is still reeling), but it was certainly enjoyable! 

 Favorite Quotes:

It's us against the system.

This is the kind of thing that happens to good looking girls like Jaime, who are prepared for these types of social interactions, not someone like me.

Single girl survival tip 101: always let strange men know you're not alone.

And now, thanks to Cooper, I didn't even know what world I belong in.

"Did I miss something? How are we here already?" Surely I would have noticed traveling into another dimension.

Review: Fated by Courney Cole

Book: Fated by Courtney Cole
Series: The Bloodstone Saga #2
Genre: Urban Fantasy / Fantasy / Paranormal Romance / Young Adult / I DON'T EVEN KNOW.

Buy A Copy: Amazon | Barnes & Noble
Available Formats: Ebook / Paperback
Publication Date: June 22nd, 2011
How Did I Get This Book: Purchased Ebook

Description: Seventeen-year old Macy Lockhart thought she had it all figured out.

As a Keeper in the ancient organization, the Order of the Moirae, she literally holds fate in her hands. She lives over and over in lives that end tragically; all to further the good of mankind as she does her part to control destiny.
But there’s one lesson that she hasn’t learned well enough. Nothing is ever what it seems.

Startling new revelations about her identity surface and Macy realizes that she’s more important than she ever imagined.

As she struggles to grasp her new reality, everyone she loves is threatened. Is she strong enough to save them all?

 

After I finished Fated I struggled as to how to approach writing the review. For those of you who are familiar with the series, you know that the main character, Macy, has an immortal soul and is constantly reborn as a keeper; a protector. This time however, things go down a bit differently. The reader learns a great about Macy, her identity and her purpose and I really do not want to spoil things for you. So please forgive me if this review is a bit scatter brained and unclear at times, I am trying my best to tiptoe around and not give things away. I thought about not writing a review, but I really wanted to share with you all how much I enjoyed Fated.

So, like I said, Macy and the usual gang are back for round two. This time, instead of Ancient Egypt, they are wreaking havoc in Ancient Greece – sort of (cryptic, I know).  like I said, I am going to keep plot points to a minimum, but I will say this: Fated was one shock after another. I must admit, when I was finished with it, I thought to myself, “there is no way Courtney Cole knew where she was going with that”. Then, as if she has some magical connection directly to my brain and coincidentally my nook, she explained her reasoning in the author’s notes. Now, don’t get me wrong, I loved all the twists, turns and “oh my god!” moments, that’s why I am sparing you in details. 

There were a few problems I had with the book, one in particular with Macy’s demeanor. I have always liked Macy, I have from the first page of Every Last Kiss, but her emotional meltdowns are beginning to wear on me. She is an extremely emotional character and I began to get irritated with her overreacting about every little detail. Gavin’s incessant comforting began to take its toll on me as well.  On that same note, there soul-mate love is a little much at times too. Please do not misunderstand, I love, love, LOVE Gavin and Macy. It is just that one of these days there over-sweetness is going to give me a toothache. It’s always  My love this and my love that. Oh, and sweet. They are very fond of using sweet as an endearment as well. I would just really love to see them argue once or disagree or something. Like I said, I am completely in the Macy/Gavin camp, but I would like to see something else from them. 

Truly though, those were my only issues with the book. I know this is an incredibly short review, but without mentioning the plot, my topics are kind of limited. Let me just say that if you are a fan of paranormal romances, fantasy stories, time travel books, adventure stories or just plain love stories, you are about 99.9% sure to enjoy Fated. If this is the first time you’ve heard of this series, that please go check out Every Last Kiss as it was AWESOME as well. 

Favorite Quotes 

My need for him was almost palpable because any time that wasn't spent in his arms was just... wasted. Our time was always so limited.

And as we lingered in our intimate embrace, I knew that if I could freeze time right this second, I would.

Someone should have mentioned to him that Karma was a venomous witch.

This was too much craziness for any one person to handle without ice cream.

"Terror is so delicious," she remarked. "You're disappointingly predictable, Harmonia. All these years and you would still risk everything for him. Tsk, tsk."

I am quite familiar with crazy.

I could taste the peace around me and I wondered how long that would last. The night was so dark, so velvety that I felt as if it was tangible, as if I could breathe it in, as well. I felt it clinging to my skin and caressing my body like unseen hands.

We were soul mates. Bound through time with a love stronger than steel. He was mine. And I was his. Unquestionably. Forever. Yet here we were. He was half-dressed and embracing my sworn enemy.

Luckily, Cadmus was very secure in his manhood and didn't seem fazed by the protection of women. 

Pull on your goddess panties, my dear. It's time to come out swinging.

They cannot stop what we feel.

Foolish, foolish men," she muttered. "They need you to prevail."

I had forgotten about the sword in all of the excitement of almost burning alive.

Review: Between by Cyndi Tefft

Book: Between by Cyndi Tefft
Pages: 246
Genre: Fantasy / Young Adult 
Buy A Copy: Amazon / Barnes & Noble / Smashwords 
Available Formats: Paperback / Ebook
Publication Date: April 21st, 2011
How Did I Get This Book:  From Author, For Review
Description: It just figures that the love of Lindsey Water's life isn't alive at all, but the grim reaper, complete with a dimpled smile and Scottish accent.

After transporting souls to heaven for the last 300 years, Aiden MacRae has all but given up on finding the one whose love will redeem him and allow him entry through the pearly gates.

Torn between her growing attraction to Aiden and heaven's siren song, Lindsey must learn the hard way whether love really can transcend all boundaries.

I thought that Between was incredible creative. Aiden and Lindsey move back and forth through time and space, travel to each other’s memories of their former lives. This way, we get to witness both of these characters experience a completely different setting and time that what they’ve known. This was truly an inspired idea, because as readers we get a better understanding of the characters through their memories, yet it’s not an “information dump.” The plot continues to move as we travel through these different memories – the scenes play out like movies and Aiden and Lindsey take on almost ghostly roles. They can interact with each other during these memories, but they cannot interact with their younger selves or anyone else present.

Besides these sort of memory replays, Lindsey and Aiden can both “cast” different locations they’d been to when they were living. This means that the setting is constantly changing and let me tell you, Tefft does an amazing job with each location. Through the book we travel to the Scottish countryside,  a ball at Versailles and  a French Chateau (through Aiden) and A tranquil cabin on a lake, to the Seattle Space Needle, An Aquarium and the Opera with Lindsey.  Each place is described in such vivid detail that you truly feel like you are right there with the characters.

The love connection between Aiden and Lindsey moved at lightning speed. I enjoyed their relationship, but I cannot help but feel like it was incredibly rushed. Lindsey also dealt with her own death better than one would expect. She did break down a few times, but not nearly as often as I would think. If your life was ripped out from underneath you at a tenderly young age, wouldn’t you be incredibly grief stricken? I think I would be a hot mess. She, however seems to be mostly concerned with Aiden. Although, I guess if I put it into perspective, I might be able to understand why they would have bonded so quickly. I mean, he’s been starved for true human interaction for 300 years and she just died. I guess it would be more prudent to focus on the hot Scotsmen than wallow about something you cannot change. I would probably get all clingy too. 

Let's talk about the storyline for a minute, because again, it is so wonderfully creative. When Lindsey dies in a car crash, Aiden appears to act as her transporter. It is his job to transport her to heaven.  As the two proceed to interact, they quickly fall in love, even though the fear of separation is always hanging over them. They both know that at some point Lindsey is going to have to move on and it puts a terribly romantic spin on everything.  Honestly, it’s such an incredible concept – forget about vampires, werewolves, angels, demons, faeries, mermaids or any other supernatural creature you’ve seen – let’s talk about an incredibly attractive, Scottish, kilt-wearing version of a Grim Reaper. I think we can all agree that we are treading on new territory with Between. 

I also want to say something about the religion in the book. I for one, usually don’t take to books that deal with religious overtones, because they can often come off as preachy. That really isn’t the case with Between. I never felt like Tefft was trying to sway my religious views or anything of the sort – I just saw a wonderfully creative and heartfelt story. 

One last thing - how about that lovely cover? I would like to give mad props to whoever designed that one, because I instantly wanted to read Between when I saw it. I know; it’s terribly wrong to judge a book by its cover, but we all know we do it. I would never, not read a book based on a cover, but there is just something so wonderful about a  cover that makes you go oh-la-la. 

Between by Cyndi Tefft was an intriguing story that kept me constantly entertained. I see that there is going to be a sequel, Hell Transporter,  but I do not know when it’s going to be released. I can tell you that I will be reading it. If you are a fan of paranormal romances or just romances in general than I could defiantly give Between a try.

Favorite Quotes:

"I couldn't help but stare at the strength of his movements - swift and fluid in one way, but filled with an underlying power, like a lion at rest."

"His smile was wreaking havoc on my insides, so I closed my eyes and took a breath to calm my nerves."

"And your green eyes are the color of the hills - the color of my home." His voice dropped to a whisper. "Aye, there's something about you, Lindsey Waters."

"Leather bound books lined one wall from floor to ceiling, their spines perfectly straight like soldiers in formation."

"I wasn't sure if he meant the horseback riding or the fact that i had been pressed against him, but the answer was an empathic 'yes' regardless."

"I kissed his temple and whispered words of comfort, wishing I could hold him tight enough to somehow make it right."

"Gracious woman, what kind of thoughts have you been thinking that you don't want me to know?"

"I love you," I whispered, my heart breaking into pieces."

"Well, no wonder you guys were always trying to kill each other. Life is hardly worth living without chocolate."

"I took him downstairs to the bathroom and explained the workings of the toilet. He was fascinated by the 'marvelous contraption,' which made me giggle."

Review: Every Last Kiss by Courtney Cole

Book: Every Last Kiss by Courtney Cole
Series: The Bloodstone Saga #1
Pages: 250
Genre: Fantasy / Young Adult / Historical
Buy A Copy: Amazon / Barnes & Noble
Available Formats: Paperback / Ebook
Publication Date: May 2nd, 2011
How Did I Get This Book:  From Author, For Review
Description: What would you do if you held Fate in your hands? 17-year old Macy Lockhart has the weight of the world on her shoulders. For thousands of years, she has been a Keeper in the ancient organization, the Order of the Moirae… and she literally holds fate in her hands. But this is something that she forgets because her memories are wiped clean in every life until it is time for her cycle to start again. For the last two thousand years, this has never been a problem. Until now. And now…Fate, the very thing that Macy was born to keep, is being challenged and she has only one choice: To return to a previous life to fix it; a life where she was Cleopatra’s handmaiden, Charmian. And that’s not all. Unless she interferes with the fabric of time, the very thing she has returned to repair, her soul mate will die leading Marc Antony’s forces against Rome. Can she really stand aside and allow the love of her life to die all over again?

Every Last Kiss by Courtney Cole is incredibly imaginative.  The story takes place in Ancient Egypt – a place that has captivated us for centuries. So much about this time period is still unknown and Cole does an incredible job crafting a compelling and exciting version of Alexandria.  The rich imagery she depicts within her writing is nothing short of breathtaking.  The lush, lavish descriptions of Alexandria will leave you mesmerized and desperately wanting more. 

The strength the characters possess is defiantly a highlight of the book. all of the main protagonists (Cleopatra, Marc Antony, Charmian and Hasani) have such will and determination – there are certainly no weaklings here. It is refreshing to see a complete cast of characters that have such perseverance.  They did what they had to do, no matter how much they hurt themselves in the process. That is true strength of character. Charmian may not be a kick butt Urban Fantasy heroine, but she certainly tough in her own way.

I did however, have  a hard time figuring out exactly how Macy and Charmian fit together. The concept just was a little lost on me. She was both Charmian and Macy, jet they were still separate. She possessed all of Charmian’s feelings and memories (as well as Macy’s), but she was suppose to be Macy’s spirit in Charmian’s body Am I confusing you yet? I am certainly confusing myself. I really cannot even hope to explain it to you, because I am still a bit lost myself. At times she seemed very much Macy – she would make a comment about modern girls or get embarrassed by a sketchy situation, but then at other times she was an Ancient Egyptian woman in every way. I think a lot of my character confusion had to do with the huge age gap between the two versions of Macy. Charmian was thirty-nine, while Macy was only seventeen.  This age gap is obviously going to make it difficult to blend the characters and hopefully when Macy takes on a new persona in the next book, they will be closer in age. 

Every Last Kiss certainly did a number on my emotional composure. If this book doesn’t get you to feel something, I am not really sure what will. I mean, the whole concept of the book is rather heart wrenching isn’t it? A girl who goes back in time to relive her own death as well as the deaths of those she loves the most.  I found myself constantly questioning what exactly I wanted out of the ending – I had no idea how I expected things to work out.  I mean, we are all aware of how the story of Cleopatra and Antony is supposed to end and it certainly isn’t pretty. Then, with the added addition of the ill-fated romance between Charmian and Hasani, Every Last Kiss defiantly had a desperate, dark and romantic vibe going on. Which, I, for one am always game for. Bring on the tears, I say. 

I don’t want to really get into detail about the ending, because I really would rather not spoil it for you. Let me just say that it isn’t all peaches and roses, but it isn’t all death and destruction either. Just as you trying to reign in your desperate (and slightly embarrassing) sobs, Cole throws you a lifeline. 

I just want to say one more thing. The beginning of the story (When Macy is still just Macy) has a completely different vibe than the rest of the book. if you aren’t exactly loving it from the get-go, please read on, at least until you get to the Ancient Egypt part. The book really takes off then and turns into something else entirely.

Every Last Kiss was in a word, beautiful. The setting and descriptions are incredible – honestly, you will feel like you’ve actually stepped into Ancient Egypt. The story itself was wonderfully enticing; you teeter  back and forth will speculation on the ending. The whole thing is very consuming and exhausting.  This is one of those books that you get wrapped up in and emotionally invested in.  Sure, there were issues with Every Last Kiss, but in the end, it is a captivating, enchanting, emotionally charged story with quality characters that will not only touch your heart, but run away with it as well.

 Favorite Quotes

"Staring at the pitiful piles of bad memories, I realized that I desperately wanted to set fire to it. But, obviously, that would be crazy. And probably against some sort of city ordinance. Plus it would also burn my house down. So I settled for pulling on a pair of boots and stomping on it instead... like an inane Italian woman making wine."

"He had broken my heart by impaling it with one of Tara Wilson's tacky stiletto heels."

"I had a much bigger problem than Derek hidden in my underwear drawer."

"Do you really think there is no plan to life? That things are meant to simply fall where they may? I think not. That would be utter chaos."

"His utter helplessness at the sight of my tears leaked through his confident voice. It was almost funny that such a great warrior as Hasani was reduced to panic at the sight of a stupid tear or two."

"He grinned lightly at me and I smiled back. Lord, I loved this man. His smile was as bright as the sun."

"You saved your own life, Charmian. You're quite the feisty hell-cat!"

"I nodded dejectedly. She was right. There wasn't a thing that we could do. But perhaps burn a few bunches of incense to Sekhmet. I would utter some frantic prayers to God, too, even though Christianity hadn't even been thought of yet. It wouldn't hurt to cover all of my bases."

"I grinned triumphantly at him. Who knew I could be such a bad-ass?"

"Like a wall made from cellulite, he blocked my escape - and from his devious bloody smile, I could tell that he knew it."

"God, I loved that man. Love flooded every cell in my body and I felt physically ill at the thought of never seeing him again."

"I breathed deeply, trying not to hyperventilate and look crazy."

 

Review: The Twisted Tale of Stormy Gale

Book: The Twisted Tale of Stormy Gale by Christine Bell
Stand Alone or Series:  Stand-Alone
Pages:  83

Genre:  Steampunk / Historical Romance

Buy A Copy: Amazon | Barnes & Noble 

Available Formats: Ebook
Publication Date: April 25th, 2011

Publisher: Carina Press

How Did I Get This Book: From Netgalley for Review

First Line: “A blast of sunlight punched through the persistent blackness, backlighting my eyelids in a hazy wash of red."

Preview Book: Preview on Google Books

Description: I'm a time pirate—born in 1810, now a 21st-century woman. I travel through time trying to right wrongs without disrupting the fragile balance between what is and what can never be. That's why it's vital that I go to 1836 and find the man who conned my brother out of his Time Travel Mechanism as quickly as possible. If the technology falls into the wrong hands, it could change the world as we know it. The notorious Duke of Leister definitely qualifies as the wrong hands. An amateur scientist of the slightly mad variety, he's bound to figure out how to use the TTM sooner rather than later.

I knew this wouldn't be easy. But I wasn't counting on him being as sexy as hell. Or winding up chained to his bed…

The Twisted Tale of Stormy Gale by Christine Bell has a surprisingly tender and romantic storyline. After reading the description, I got it in my head that this would be an amusing sort of light read. While the book was certainly amusing; the plot ran much deeper than I initially expected. This is both a triumph and a fault with the book, because although it is ambitious and intriguing, there really isn't enough time in 80 pages to work with a storyline like this.

It’s a short book, but the character of Stormy is still able to make an impact on the reader. Our heroine is a time-pirate, a self-proclaimed sort of Robin Hood of the future. She travels through time righting wrongs - as long as it doesn’t have a large impact on the world of the future. She chose the name Dorothy Gale for herself after her first encounter with the classic movie, The Wizard of Oz. Of course, she doesn’t go by Dorothy, she is known as Stormy. Stormy has a vibrant personality and is desperately loyal to those she cares about. Her internal narrative is exceedingly charming, witty and humorous; which makes the story easy to take.

The storyline moved along at a rapid pace; especially the romance between Devlin and Stormy. I was incredibly thrown off by how in-depth Devlins feelings were towards her. Granted, the author can’t draw things out too much in a novella, but I would have liked to see their romance develop a bit more gradually. Bell tries to remedy the situation by making Devlin an acquaintance from Stormy’s past life, but still, they haven’t seen each other in over 13 years. 

I think if the stormy would have been a bit longer, Bell could have developed a better foundation for the relationship between Devlin and Stormy and it would have made their courtship easier to swallow. As it is, their background is sketchy at best and it makes Devlin appear incredibly obsessive. You don’t ever really get a good feel of him; unfortunately, he is never properly fleshed out. 

That being said, I honestly enjoyed the story. Sure I wish it could have been longer, I would have liked to a fuller picture of the characters and settings, but this was still an entertaining read. I just feel with more development, it could have been a great read. I would classify this more as a historical romance with steampunk elements tossed in - there are obvious elements of a steampunk story, but it takes more of a backseat to the romance storyline.

Favorite Quotes:

"But, if I'm being honest, I have an unholy obsession with hot showers and Starbucks coffee that keeps me motivated to limit the duration of my trips."

"Presented with this stunning batch of man candy, I was feeling a bit unnerved and uncharacteristically shy."

"Had my libido gotten the better of me? Sure, he looked great, but if he planned to cut my head off with some old-fashioned lopping shears or make a dress out of my skin, it was so not worth it."

Review: Dreamwalk by Sarah MacManus

Book: Dreamwalk by Sarah MacManus
Stand Alone or Series: Stand-Alone
Pages:  242 
Genre:  Paranormal Romance / Young Adult

Buy A Copy: Amazon | Smashwords

Available Formats: Ebook
Publication Date: March 14th, 2011

How Did I Get This Book: From Author, For Review

First Line: “I had enough time to hope I wouldn't hit anyone on the sidewalk below."

Preview Book: Read Chapter 1

Description: DREAMWALK is a romantic mixed beat of time travel and mythology for both teens and adults. After the death of her mother, Chloe Hawthorn is haunted by terrifying nighttime hallucinations. Determined to take control of her dreams, she uses them to find Shane Anderson, a charming and troubled musician whose online videos have been holding her in thrall. She finds him in the Dreamtime, sweating out heroin detox in a run-down rehab center.

Chloe sets out to find Shane in the waking world and discovers her dreams have been taking her into the past. Horrified, Chloe realizes Shane doesn't survive his addictions. In order to save him, Chloe must master her Australian mother's legacy — the secret of walking the Dreaming through time. But what price will Chloe pay for this Dreamwalk and will she save Shane only to lose him forever?

Dreamwalk is a interesting story, that was nothing like I expected it to be. When thought the story would be rather light and fluffy – a teenage girl going to “save” her musical crush. But I was wrong – that’s not Dreamwalk at all. There is a rather dark and lyrical quality to MacManus’ writing. It is the sort that quietly sinks into your very bones – you become a part of what she is seeing, what she is describing.

I enjoyed both Chloe and Shane, and they are really the only characters we get a solid feel of. Chloe more so than Shane, since the story comes from her perspective. I must admit, going into this book I expected to find vapid, somewhat shallow characters, but that was simply not the case.

Both Chloe and Shane are lost – they feel lonely and abandoned. Through a twist of fate, they find each other at time when they are at their lowest; when they need one another the most. I must say, their relationship progressed much quicker than I expected, which did throw me off a bit. They quickly become physical and toss around the love word, which did not feel right to me. It’s not a moral problem or anything with me, it is just that it felt rushed. I can understand and accept that the connection was easily made at that particular time in their lives, but I wish we would have seen a bit more of the progression. In all honestly; these two hardly knew one another.

The beginning of the dark held my attention steadfast – I soaked up every word, every description, every line. But as the story progressed I began to get restless and confused. I had a difficult time with the lengthy dream-walk descriptions and in all honesty, that is probably my fault. I did not pay close attention to the writing, because I wanted to see what happened next. The descriptions throw the story off course; they come at a time when the reader simply wants to find out what is going on with Chloe and Shane, not the intricate details of how to dream-walk. I would have liked to learn how exactly Chloe was performing this unusual talent, but not at the peak of the storyline. 

That being said, the plotline was full of mystery and intrigue, and for the most part, kept you on your toes. MacManus throws a few twists your way at the end; it’s certainly not what you would expect. I did enjoy the twists, but I would have liked a tad bit more closure. I just wish MacManus would have taken it one step further – you will see what I mean. 

I  enjoyed Dreamwalk, it was creative and surprisingly dark and a bit haunting. The writing is beautiful and the story is surprisingly tender and mysterious. This isn’t a book full of rainbows and sunshine – it about two characters coming together at the roughest parts of their lives and trying to hold on to the lifeline the other creates. It’s messy, romantic, and undeniably poetic.

 Favorite Quotes

"Experts say that the brain cannot tell the difference between an experience that is real and one that is vividly imagined. Knowing something like that can get a girl into a lot of trouble."

"What I could see of him in the small frame was long and lean and a bit undercooked."

"My breath caught and chills shivered over my skin. Either I was in love or I had caught pneumonia."

"Oh, darling," he sighed leaning against the pitted wall again, his eyes dark, "I'm nobody's dream."

"There are songs about love. There's the song of first love, the song of unrequited love, the song of love unexpected, the song of love we do not want, the song of love that must be built, day by day." They all sound different, but the results are the same - your heart learns how to create love, and your hands learn how to give it away."

Review: The Lens and the Looker by Lory S. Kaufman

Book: The Lens and the Looker by Lory S. Kaufman
Series: The Verona Trilogy #1
Pages:  322
Genre: Young Adult Dystopian / Historical 

Buy A Copy: Amazon | Barnes & Noble 

Available Formats: Ebook & Paperback 
Publication Date: March 16th, 2011

How Did I Get This Book: From Publisher, For Review

Preview Book: Read Excerpts  

Description: THERE'S HOPE FOR THE FUTURE, BUT WHAT ABOUT THE PAST?

It’s the 24th century and humans, with the help of artificial intelligences (A.I.s) have finally created the perfect post-dystopian society. To make equally perfect citizens for this world, the elders have created History Camps, full sized recreations of cities from Earth’s distant pasts. Here teens live the way their ancestors did, doing the same dirty jobs and experiencing the same degradations. History Camps teach youths not to repeat the mistakes that almost caused the planet to die. But not everything goes to plan.

In this first of a trilogy, we meet three spoiled teens in the year 2347. Hansum almost 17, is good looking and athletic. Shamira, 15, is sassy, independent and an artistic genius. Lincoln, 14, is the smart-aleck. But you don’t have to scratch too far beneath the surface to find his insecurities.

These three “hard cases” refuse the valuable lessons History Camps teach. But when they are kidnapped and taken back in time to 1347 Verona, Italy, they only have two choices; adapt to the harsh medieval ways or die. The dangers are many, their enemies are powerful, and safety is a long way away. It’s hardly the ideal environment to fall in love – but that’s exactly what happens. In an attempt to survive, the trio risks introducing technology from the future. It could save them – or it could change histor

In The Lens and The Looker we have a combination of subplots going on that all weave together to form a remarkable story of love, friendship and responsibility. The book’s description states that there are three main characters; seventeen-year-old Hansum, who becomes Romero, fifteen-year-old Shamira (Carmella) and fourteen-year-old Lincoln (Maruccio). However, the storyline focuses more on Hansum than the others. You learn the most of him and he is the easiest to sympathize with. Plus he is the one with the love interest. 

Now, before I get into too much detail about the plot, I want to forewarn you that this isn’t a book purely driven by romance. While there is a romance found within, it doesn’t take center stage. If you go into reading The Lens and The Looker hoping for an over the top, historical teen romance, you are going to be disappointed. Now, again, this wasn’t an issue for me, I truly enjoyed what the book had to offer. But if you are solely seeking a romance, keep looking.

The majority of the book takes place in 14^th century Verona, not the 24^th century. It’s a time travel book, but the characters do not hop back and forth throughout history. It wasn’t an issue for me, I truly enjoyed reading about Verona. I have honestly never read a book about Italy during that time, or any other place really, well besides Romeo and Juliet. Although that doesn’t really count, it takes place nearly 200 years later.

The magic of this book lies with the wonderful, thoughtful take on 14^th Century Verona, and the sort of coming-of-age story of the three teens from the future. Like I stated earlier, I cannot remember ever reading a book that tackled this particular time period before and Kaufman approaches it with such care and gusto. He paints a truly vivid picture of the setting and colorful characters that come with it – He made me want to meet the lens maker, his kooky wife and beautiful daughter. I want to walk the bustling market streets and see the stunning church interiors. However, I could stand without smelling the horse poop and watching the butcher make a living. I much prefer to see the final product all wrapped in plastic at the grocery store. 

The reader is introduced to the time period and all of its quirks in a very unique and effective way. As the three teenagers are first coming to terms with their surroundings, so are the readers. They react in the same way that I would imagine we all would – which makes the experience and story really come to life.

I also found it immensely interesting to see how they struggle to fit into their new life and surroundings. It is exceeding difficult for them because they even have a different way of holding and presenting themselves - they act privileged for the time period. Those they meet certainly find them odd; not only do they speak their minds and boldly look you in the eye, they can read and write.

 
There  isn’t a great deal of action within the book, the progression is much more character-oriented. While the plot moves at a steady pace, the characters, their feelings and interactions are primarily what keeps you turning the pages. 

I only wish that we could have seen more of the story from Shamria's perspective. I thought she was one of the more interesting characters and unfortunately she sort of rides shotgun to the boys. I think her story would be incredibly interesting - a teenage girl going from the 24th century to the 14th. Think of all the status changes that would involve. You would go from being an independent, free-thinking equal to becoming nothing more than a pretty face who is to be seen and not heard. Although Sharmia isn't treated this way by the lensmaker and his family - I believe that was the general consensus at the time. Well, maybe not. I should really go do some research.  But you get my point, I would have loved to see her story.

Despite a few minor flaws, The Lens and The Looker is both captivating and intelligent. I was swept away with the story, especially with the idea of them rewriting history. I am incredibly eager to see what happens next!

Favorite Quotes

“These mechanistic rascals told their young possessors rude jokes, helped them cheat on school tests, aided in the playing of pranks and, in general,  endorsed and promoted bad behavior. What more could healthy, rebellious kids as for?” 

“Keep your tights on, man!” 

“God knows I’m grateful and God knows I’m hungry”

“A woman is a friend to a man as meat is to a meal.”

“it’s everyone’s world, Romero. But I can also be very beautiful. Father Aaron once told me that life is a dance. A dance where we live with one foot in Heaven and one foot in Hell. We dance back and forth between the two and are given a choice. Life is learning to always dance back into Heaven.”

“They stood in the middle of the road, hands clasped together for the first time, their eyes and lips close. Hansum couldn’t tell if it was the gravity of the moon shining in the sky or that of their young hearts, but he felt them being pulled together.” 

Hansum finally came up from his deep well of delicious drowning and looked into Guilietta’s eyes. He could now see in her that instant familiarity which each person instinctively craves.”