Book Shelf: Slayer (Slayer #1) by Kiersten White

Into every generation a Slayer is born…

Nina and her twin sister, Artemis, are far from normal. It’s hard to be when you grow up at the Watcher’s Academy, which is a bit different from your average boarding school. Here teens are trained as guides for Slayers—girls gifted with supernatural strength to fight the forces of darkness. But while Nina’s mother is a prominent member of the Watcher’s Council, Nina has never embraced the violent Watcher lifestyle. Instead she follows her instincts to heal, carving out a place for herself as the school medic.

Until the day Nina’s life changes forever.

Thanks to Buffy, the famous (and infamous) Slayer that Nina’s father died protecting, Nina is not only the newest Chosen One—she’s the last Slayer, ever. Period.

As Nina hones her skills with her Watcher-in-training, Leo, there’s plenty to keep her occupied: a monster fighting ring, a demon who eats happiness, a shadowy figure that keeps popping up in Nina’s dreams…

But it’s not until bodies start turning up that Nina’s new powers will truly be tested—because someone she loves might be next.

One thing is clear: Being Chosen is easy. Making choices is hard.

More info on Goodreads.....


Review: 

Slayer is the latest novel from New York Times bestselling author Kiersten White and draws readers into the world of Buffy the Vampire Slayer with this first novel in a new series that is set to tell the tale of the next Slayer.

Nina and her twin sister Artemis are far from normal. Born to two Watcher's, they have grown up at the Watcher's Academy where teens are trained as guides for Slayers--girls with supernatural abilities that fight the forces of darkness. While her sister has always been a natural, Nina has struggled with the violent Watcher lifestyle, instead wanting to follow her instincts to heal. Until the day Nina's life changes forever and she becomes the last Slayer....forever. Thanks to Buffy's actions, there will be no more new Slayers and Nina's the last. Yet as Nina trains with her Watcher Leo she also finds herself caught up in a monster fighting ring where not everything is as it seems. Then bodies start turning up within the Academy and soon Nina must use her new abilities to find who's responsible before more people die.....

Buffy the Vampire Slayer bewitched an entire generation in the 90's, and although I've only watched bits and pieces myself over the years ---I was just a tad too young to watch the show at the time --there's no denying how influential it was in shaping pop culture and the paranormal genre in general. Slayer is a wonderful opportunity for original fans to revisit the distinct Buffy-verse or for new readers to sink their teeth into all the fun, sass and quirk it has to offer.

Slayer follows sixteen year old Watcher-recently-turned-Slayer Nina as she navigates the new aspects of her world. Nina is an easy to follow character. She has the distinct voice of a teenage girl who is still trying to discover who she is and what she stands for. Though not perfect, Nina is willing and grows a lot in this first novel alone. 

It's evident throughout the novel that Kiersten White clearly knows her Buffy the Vampire Slayer as she recounts Nina's tale. Aspects of the Slayer world are touched upon as she explains and explores the Watcher world. Slayer is filled with many vivid and hilarious characters and personalities. There's familial bonds, friendship and even romance brought into the story with quirky dialogue and situations. 

Whether you're an esteemed Buffy lover or someone like myself new to the world, Slayer is an exciting novel to sink your teeth into. Perfect for new and old fans of Buffy the Vampire Slayer, Slayer is a great start to a promising new series and leaves me dying to see what Kiersten White plans next!

Rating: 
Source: Sent for review by publisher (Thank you Jamie!)
Publisher: Simon & Schuster Australia
Format: Paperback
Australian RRP: $17.99
Release Date: 1st February 2019
Buy: Angus & Robertson | Booktopia | The Book Depository | Amazon
Final Thoughts: I really enjoyed this novel and can't wait to read the next one when it comes out!

 

Book Shelf: Do You Dream of Terra-Two? by Temi Oh

The Long Way to a Small, Angry Planet meets The 100 in this unforgettable debut by a brilliant new voice.

A century ago, scientists theorised that a habitable planet existed in a nearby solar system. Today, ten astronauts will leave a dying Earth to find it. Four are decorated veterans of the 20th century’s space-race. And six are teenagers, graduates of the exclusive Dalton Academy, who’ve been in training for this mission for most of their lives.

It will take the team 23 years to reach Terra-Two. Twenty-three years spent in close quarters. Twenty-three years with no one to rely on but each other. Twenty-three years with no rescue possible, should something go wrong. And something always goes wrong. 

More info on Goodreads......


Review:

Do You Dream of Terra-Two? is Temi Oh’s debut novel and is a thoughtful and character driven story about possibilities and those who dare to take a chance in this interstellar adventure.

Decades ago, scientists theorized there was a habitable planet in a nearby solar system. Now, a team of astronauts are being sent on a mission to reach this planet in the hopes of beginning colonisation. Four members of the team are seasoned astronauts with years of experience under their belts while the remaining six are teenagers and the future of the mission. Having been taught at the Dalton Academy most of their lives, these six teens are highly trained and have been prepped for the journey to Terra-Two which is expected to take twenty three years. This means twenty three years in close proximity to one another and when things begin to go wrong as they always seem to do, they’ll need to rely on each other not just to complete the mission but to simply survive.

Heading into Do You Dream of Terra-Two? I wasn’t sure what do expect. The description was appealing and had me imagining a science fiction tale set amongst the stars in a futuristic world of space travel and colonisation. Instead Do You Dream of Terra-Two? was very much grounded in reality and bound by the technology and achievements of mankind today. And I found that I actually really like this concept; it made it unique and different from many other novels I have read.

In saying that it’s very clear that Temi Oh has put a lot of time, effort and research in getting the elements right. Told through the varying perspectives of our six main characters, teenage astronauts Jesse, Juno, Astrid, Harry, Poppy and Elliot, Do You Dream of Terra-Two? is a very character focused novel following the characters both prior to the launch of the mission and during their time in space. All six characters are very different—some I liked more than others and others I didn’t quite connect with. They all had distinctly different personalities, fears, dreams and drives. They’re far from perfect and wonderfully flawed individuals.

Their interwoven relationships with each other are a focal point within the story, especially seeing they are in such close confines and very reliant on each other to survive. My personal favourites were Jesse and Juno, but there was no denying that Elliot, Astrid, Poppy and Harry all had a purpose and subsequent role within the story. Oh deeply details their thoughts and fears as she switches back and forth through their perspectives during the story, highlighting their developments and their struggles.

Most of the action in Do You Dream of Terra-Two? occurs in the final stages of the novel. Life altering occurrences change the course of the mission and as our protagonists fight to both survive and determine if they want to move forward, Temi Oh brings the novel to a close within both emotional and heartfelt moments.

Ending with both closure and promise in a way you might not anticipate, Do You Dream of Terra-Two? is a great read for readers wanting to enjoy something set in reality but filled with intergalactic possibilities.

Rating:
Source: Sent for review by publisher (Thank you guys!)
Publisher: Simon & Schuster Australia
Format: Paperback ARC
Australian RRP: $24.99
Release Date: March 7th 2019
Buy: Angus & Robertson | Booktopia | The Book Depository | Amazon
Final Thoughts: An intriguing space adventure--worth reading!

Book Shelf: The Do-Gooder by Jessie L. Star

Does a bad girl deserve love?

A sassy, sweet romance perfect for fans of Christina Lauren, Colleen Hoover and Zoe Foster Blake

Lara Montgomery is no good. But she’s used to it by now – her high school reputation has followed her all the way to Bay University. She tells herself she doesn’t care, but a small part of her hopes she can neutralise the bad karma by doing good deeds for anyone who asks.

She’s really good at it, even if she does say so herself. But deep down, she knows there’s one thing she can never make better, no matter how many problems she solves . . . On the night her brother died, she was off hooking up with his not-so-single best friend, Fletch.

It’s been three years since that night, and Fletch has had it with Lara’s do-gooding – it only reminds everyone in their small university town about what they did. But Lara is determined to wipe the slate clean, even if it means heated arguments with Fletch whenever they meet on the way to class.

Trouble is, there’s more than just heat between Lara and Fletch – there are sparks and fire that can’t be ignored, and no amount of do-gooding is going to get rid of that.

More info on Goodreads.....


Review: 

The Do-Gooder is Jessie L. Star’s recently released novel and is an emotional and intriguing NA about redemption, self-deprecation and the power to forgive oneself.

Lara Montgomery is not a good girl…far from it. She has a reputation and an attitude that’s seen her scorned by the majority of her peers at the University she attends. And it doesn’t help that Lara’s biggest regret is that she was hooking up with her older brother’s not-so-single best friend the night he died. Three years may have passed, but that hasn’t stopped the rumours from plaguing Lara’s life and her mistakes from mounting. Now Lara spends her days accomplishing good deeds for others in an effort to turn her bad karma around. Fletcher Townsend has always been Lara’s weakness and he hers. All he wants is for her to let go of what happened all those years ago, but as their relationship is more crash and burn than anything else, Fletch and Lara can’t be in the same room without getting into an a verbal sparring match. Can Fletch convince Lara to let go of her guilt? Or will her determination to make amends destroy any chance she has at happiness?

I want to be honest, The Do-Gooder seems to be different than a lot of the NA novels I’ve read in the past. Though there is plenty of the sex, drama and angst that is typical of these kinds of novel, the overall feel and tone of the book seems to be gloomier than I’ve seen in most NA stories. And I think a lot of that stems from the main characters, Lara and Fletch who have a very dysfunctional relationship.

Lara was a hard character to really get behind and she wasn’t altogether likable most of the time. She was self-deprecating, angry, moody, bitchy and prone to acting out. Oddly enough she embraced the way in which people saw her and played up to their low expectations of her. I’ve never really read about a character like her before, so being inside her head was a new experience for me. It was actually very sad to see someone with much attitude and persona have so little self-worth. She genuinely believed that all the unkind and untactful words spoken about her were stemmed in truth.

Though The Do-Gooder was entertaining and had some really shining moments, there were a few times when I very much struggled with connecting Lara and Fletch. I really wanted to, but I found myself at odds with the way in which they often reacted. I wanted to see them end up together and I wanted them to overcome their demons, but I wasn’t as invested as I wanted to be. I can’t put my finger on it, but something kept me from connecting to the extent I’d hoped for.

Overall however, The Do-Gooder was still a decent read and I’ll look for more from this author in the future. The Do-Gooder was a unique NA novel from Jessie L. Star that dares to be different. 

Rating:  
Source: Sent for review by publisher (Thank you guys!)
Publisher: Simon & Schuster Australia
Format: Paperback
Australian RRP: $29.99
Release Date: June 2017
Purchase: Bookworld | Booktopia | Amazon
Final Thoughts: A NA tale with a different feel, I'll be on the lookout for more by this author in the future.

Book Shelf: Buns (Hudson Valley #3) by Alice Clayton

Clara Morgan is living the dream, if you can call rebranding hotels that are desperate for a new life and running any kind of marathon a dream. Which she does. But the career she loves and the endurance races that keep her adrenaline pumping have kept her too busy to put down any roots. Growing up in foster care, she’s never been able to establish traditions of her own, which may be why she’s fascinated by the rituals that generations-old family resorts are known for. She’s especially interested in the Bryant Mountain House, and not just for their secret recipe for the yummy, gooey, can’t-get-enough-of Hot Cross Buns….

Archie Bryant, the man with the Buns, is fifth generation and one-day-owner of the charming yet run-down Bryant Mountain House in Bailey Falls, New York. He’s determined to save his family’s legacy from the wrecking ball the old-fashioned way—by gritting his teeth and doing what needs to be done. There’s no way Archie will be influenced by the new hotel branding expert his father brought in to turn one hundred and fifty years of tradition on its head just to attract a faster, younger, slicker crowd. But when some of Clara’s ideas start bringing in new, paying customers, Archie can’t deny that she may have just given him a shot at keeping his resort open.

It’s sticky, it’s messy, it’s sweet, it’s Buns.

More info on Goodreads......


Review:

Buns is Alice Clayton's latest release and is in my opinion quite possibly her best work yet. Passionate, exhilarating, sexy and witty in the best possible way, this third instalment in The Hudson Valley series weaves together all Clayton's trademark zest and humor to create a romance that will thrill you until the very end!

Independent and driven, Clara Morgan has a successful career helping rebrand and rejuvenate hotels and is as in demand as they come. Having grown up in foster care, Clara is used to being on her own and refuses to let people get too close, preferring to be on her own to avoid the inevitable pain that comes from people leaving. Putting everything into her career, Clara is excited about the prospect of bringing new life to the family run Bryant Mountain House, if only she can get the owners snooty son on board. Bryant Mountain House is charming and quaint and Clara knows she's the girl to bring it into the 21st century....if Archie Bryant doesn't kill her first. Proper and refined, Archie seems to bring out the worst in Clara, and he in her. Refusing to accept Clara's influence on his family's hotel, Archie seems to be against all of Clara's ideas but as sparks fly between the two with unexpected results, Clara may be the answer to all of Archie's problems. Yet with Clara's fears keeping her from letting people in, will she loose her shot at love?

Proving once again that she is a god amongst writers Alice Clayton outdoes herself with Buns. Undoubtedly my favourite book in this series yet and maybe even giving Screwdrivered a run for it's money as my favourite Clayton novel, Buns will entrance readers with it's passion, fire and addictive romance. Smart and so full of heart, Buns sees all our favourite Alice Clayton characters come together (across all three series if I'm being a spoiler) in this riveting tale that will thrill readers.

Clara and Archie are a simply brilliant couple to read about; simply brilliant! Both having painful pasts and being no stranger to loss, these two are absolutely dynamite together. They were both so very different but the electricity and fire between them was off the charts. Alice Clayton couldn't have written them better if she tried and every electrically charged moment between them was fantastic to read about. There's something so thrilling about seeing a man who is naturally well put together and controlled brought to his knees by a woman. Seeing Clara make Archie loose his mind was so sexy and thrilling and I loved it!

There's nothing about this novel I can fault. Alice Clayton mixes sensuality and heart together so beautifully with her novels and Buns is a perfect example of humor, romance and fire coming together in perfect harmony. Expertly written and so very good, Buns is a must read for anyone looking for an electric and sensual read. Simply perfect!
 
Rating:
Source: Sent for review by publisher (Thank you guys!)
Publisher: Simon & Schuster
Format: Paperback
Australian RRP: $21.99
Release Date: May 23rd 2017
Purchase: Bookworld | Booktopia | The Book Depository | Amazon
Final Thoughts: The best book in this series! Buns was brilliant!

Book Shelf: Crossroads (Wind Dragons MC #6) by Chantal Fernando

From New York Times bestselling author Chantal Fernando comes the latest in the Wind Dragons Motorcycle Club series featuring a red-hot romance and plenty of mystery!

Ranger is at a crossroads: he has a chance to leave the motorcycle club and do something else with his life—but he keeps getting dragged back. When the Wind Dragons Motorcycle Club asks for his help, Ranger agrees, not only because it is hard to say no to them, but also because he has a vested interest.

A woman is missing.

And Ranger knows her.

The Wind Dragons aren’t the only ones hoping this girl can be found—on the hunt is Johanna Chase, a stubborn detective who won’t give up until the missing woman is found safe. She needs Ranger to navigate the underground world of motorcycle clubs, and immediately, sparks fly. Ranger fights the attraction. He has no plans on going there, no matter how beautiful and badass she is. A biker and a cop? Ridiculous.

But the two of them soon realize that they’re in way over their heads, and now they have to trust each other in order to save her. With the WDMC and the police force at their back, it should be no problem, right?
 
More info on Goodreads....
 

Review:

Crossroads is the 6th and latest instalment in Chantal Fernando’s devilishly delicious Wind Dragon’s MC series and is yet another enjoyable read full of sensuality and romance. 

Ranger is one of the newest members of the Wind Dragon’s Motorcycle Club, having joined with his best friend Talon from a rival MC and is still trying to find his place in his new brotherhood. Extremely intelligent, Ranger has always felt out of place, even though the Wind Dragons and their women have welcomed him with open arms. So when the former club president’s old lady Faye asks him for a favour with a case she’s working on, his first response is no, but when Ranger discovers the missing woman is someone from his past, finding her suddenly becomes his only sole focus. Even if it means working with the missing woman’s cop cousin. Johanna Chase is determined to find her missing cousin, even if the local authorities have given up. As a police officer she’s willing to use every resource at her disposable, as well as work with a biker if necessary. Ranger and Johanna may be on opposite sides of the law but when sparks fly will the two of them risk it all for a shot at love?

Chantal Fernando never fails to entertain me with her novels and Crossroads is no expectation. Just plain good reading, the Wind Dragon’s MC’s latest release is another well told, well-paced tale that unfolds through both heroine and hero’s POV’s and takes readers on another sexually charged and sensual journey!

Following new Wind Dragon’s member Ranger, Crossroads takes readers away from the clubhouse and on an investigation as Ranger and Jo work closely to find Jo’s cousin who has been kidnapped. Personally I liked this investigative aspect of the story and seeing Ranger and Jo work together to track down Elizabeth and those who have taken her. Fernando balances her romance and the seriousness of the situation well, but at the end of the day, Ranger and Jo can’t fight the attraction they feel. 

There’s obviously a forbidden aura to Ranger and Jo’s relationship with her being a cop and him being a biker, but there’s also another threat to their relationship with Ranger’s history and his friendship with Jo’s cousin coming into play. I understand why this was brought into the story and can see the impact it had on the plotline, but I don’t think it was necessary at times either, especially seeing as it became obvious quite quickly where things were heading. 

Overall I really liked both Ranger and Jo as characters and as a couple. I liked that Ranger was an intelligent man while also being a sexy biker and that Jo embraced being a cop but didn’t seem to let it affect her femininity or vulnerability as a woman where Ranger was concerned. Crossroads features some sexy love scenes and seeing as Ranger and Jo are attracted to each other from the get go, jump straight into the attraction and chemistry between them. 

Entertaining and ending very sweetly, I know Chantal Fernando plans this as the end of the series but I’ll never turn down a Wind Dragon’s MC tale in the future as I love meeting and revisiting the fantastic characters that inhabit this world!

Rating:
Source: Sent for review by publisher (Thank you guys!)
Publisher: Simon & Schuster
Format: Paperback
Australian RRP: $22.99
Release Date: March 2017
Purchase: Bookworld | Booktopia | The Book Depository | Amazon
Final Thoughts: As far as I'm aware, Crossroads concludes the Wind Dragon's MC series, but I'm looking forward to more from Chantal Fernando in the form of a spin-off series. Bring it on!

Book Shelf: Nowhere but Here by Renee Carlino

A Chicago reporter in her mid-twenties unexpectedly finds love in Napa Valley when she’s assigned to spend a week with a famously reclusive genius.

Kate Corbin has lost her spark. From the outside, her life seems charmed. She has a handsome, long-term boyfriend and a budding journalism career at a popular Chicago newspaper. But in reality, her relationship is going nowhere, and she’s quickly losing motivation for what she once believed was her dream job. When her boyfriend dumps her unceremoniously, Kate loses all hope of finding love.

With no living family and few friends, Kate confides in her boss. Trusting that the hungry, ace reporter is buried somewhere deep inside, he gives Kate the opportunity to jumpstart her career. The assignment: to interview the famously reclusive R.J. Lawson, a wealthy tech genius who disappeared years ago but recently reemerged as a Napa Valley vintner. The week takes an unexpected turn, however, when Lawson refuses to divulge any information. Desperate for a lead, Kate turns to Jamie, a vineyard hand who shows her the romance of wine country—and stirs her aching heart. But his connection to Lawson is ambiguous, and when Jamie disappears before the end of the week, Kate is left to investigate another story: the truth behind the man who stole her heart.

More info on Goodreads......


Review:

Nowhere but Here by Renee Carlino is a well written and beautiful love story set amongst a Napa Valley backdrop that is brimming with charm, romance and wonderfully deep writing.

I have to start off by saying I was very impressed with this novel. As my first Renee Carlino novel, her lyrical writing and ability to write something beautiful, moving and deep in the midst of this romance story was wonderful. Her characters are beguiling, but Carlino manages to give them great depth that translates to a moving story about the power of love and taking a chance that really resonated with me.

Nowhere but Here follows Kate Corbin, a sweet, talented but some what jaded twenty six year old reported who gets the opportunity of a lifetime when she is chosen my her boss to interview R.J. Lawson a reclusive tech genius who sold his multi billion dollar company years before and retired to a winery in Napa Valley. Setting out to uncover Lawson's secrets, things don't go as planned as the man she interviews proves to be a colossal disappointment with attitude, and Kate's past won't let her live in her present.

The shining star of Kate's trip is Jamie, a charismatic and charming vineyard hand and jack-of-all-trades who makes Kate's heart race like never before. Beginning a whirlwind romance with Jamie, Kate slowly finds herself waking up again and falling into the deep, meaningful love she'd always hoped for, but when tragedy strikes and changes everything, Kate and Jamie must fight for their relationship as Kate questions everything she wants from life and love.

Main character Kate is an independent, intelligent and strong woman. She's had her fair share of pain and is still moving on from her most recent loss. In a dead end relationship with a man who doesn't appreciate her, Kate's whole world changes with one trip to Napa Valley. I thought Kate's progression was wonderful to watch. Kate goes from being jaded and saddened to finding hope and love again as she gets to know Jamie, and ultimately herself.

Leaving one relationship and then getting straight into another would seem fast, especially considering Kate falls so hard for Jamie over a matter of a few days, but there's something about Nowhere but Here that doesn't make this seem rushed or forced. Kate and Jamie are on a whirlwind romance, but it's real. It's not a fling; it's two people finding their soul mate and knowing it when circumstances bring them together.

As the leading man and Kate's love interest, Jamie is the whole package. He's smart, cheeky and endlessly charming. He can be wicked; taking risks and chances, but he's also very down to earth and someone who genuinely cares about other people, showcased thoroughly in Nowhere but Here. He and Kate just connect so well, and Carlino does a great job with their chemistry. Their relationship develops well past the initial attraction, into a mutually understanding and love for one another.

Kate and Jamie face their fair share of hurdles, something author Renee Carlino touch's well on within the story. There's a twist some readers like myself will see coming and the loss of a loved one that changes their relationship. Seeing them fight for what they have is beautiful and Carlino manages to litter their lives with wonderful friends and family who color the pages and add depth to the story.

Deep and meaningful, Nowhere but Here is an unconventional love story and a beautiful romance that will make you feel giddy, excited and endlessly satisfied by Kate and Jamie's well deserved happily ever after......
 
Rating:
Source: Sent for review by Simon & Schuster (Thank you guys!)
Publisher: Atria Books      
Format: Paperback
Release Date: May 5th 2014
Purchase: Bookworld | Booktopia | The Book Depository | Amazon
Final Thoughts: Beautifully written, I highly recommend this novel and look forward to reading more by Renee Carlino in the future!

Book Shelf: Up in Flames (Rosemary Beach #13) by Abbi Glines

#1 New York Times bestselling author Abbi Glines returns to Rosemary Beach one last time in this highly-anticipated finale.

Spoiled. Selfish. Rich girl. Villain. Slut.

As the Prada-clad bad girl of Rosemary Beach, Nan Dillon has been called every vile name under the hot summer sun. Some of her reputation is deserved—she’s never had to worry about anything but maintaining her perfect figure and splitting Daddy’s private jet with her brother, Rush.

But Nan is far from happy. Rush has another kid on the way and doesn’t have time to catch up with his sister. Grant, the last guy she truly cared about, chose to be with her half-sister, Harlow, instead of her. And Harlow, who has never gotten over the way Nan treated her when she first moved to town, remains distant.

So when Major asks her out, she jumps at the chance to date the gorgeous charmer. Though she doesn’t know much about the sweet-talking Texan, and though it’s clear he doesn’t want to be exclusive, dating him beats hanging out with vapid socialites or watching Netflix alone at home.

For a while, Nan deals with Major’s playboy ways, but after he burns her one too many times, she takes off for an impromptu wild weekend in Vegas. There, she meets Gannon, a darkly seductive and oh-so-dangerous businessman who knows exactly how to handle her.

With Major asking for a second chance and Gannon haunting her dreams, Nan has to decide who to give her heart to. But what she doesn’t realize is that these players are involved in a much bigger game—and they’re already two moves ahead of her.

More info on Goodreads.....


Review: (Warning: May contain some spoilers!)

Up In Flames is the long anticipated final installment in the riveting Rosemary Beach series by Abbi Glines and features the misunderstood but often infuriating villain of the series Nan in a scorching read that will leave you breathless!

Nanette Dillion has garnered a reputation for herself over the years. Spoiled, rich and a born trouble maker, Nan knows that some of her selfish reputation is well deserved, but that doesn't mean she's as coldhearted as everyone seems to think she is. Discarded by her mother and unacknowledged by her father, Nan has been desperate for love her whole life, being with man after man in an attempt to find it. Even Major Colt, the charming Texan can't seem to give her what she needs, so fed up with being used, Nan does what every rich girl does in her situation....she hightails it off for a weekend in Vegas! And it's in Vegas that she meets Gannon, a rough, mysteriously and darkly seductive individual who isn't who he seems but who makes Nan burn like never before. Gannon appeals to a part of her she never knew, but when Major reappears begging for a second chance, who will Nan choose and who will finally give her everything she's always longed for?

Having been yearning and desperate for this book for so long, Up In Flames wasn't what I was expecting. There were times whilst reading it that I even debated how I felt about it, but in the end I think I'm generally pretty happy with how Abbi Glines wrote Up In Flames. It wasn't what I expected, but it was still an enjoyable read.

That being said, as far as I'm concerned, Up in Flames seemed to ooze a darker aura than the other Rosemary Beach novels. The darker edge gave the story a different overall feel. The relationship between Nan and Gannon was raw and edgy and sexually dominant. Glines blurred the line between pleasure and pain in a way she has before. Gannon was a lot darker than the Glines leading men I'm used too.

I was really happy to finally have Nan front and center though. Whilst reading the series, I hated her for a long time before she eventually became someone I loved to hate. Now I think I just love her. We're all a product of our childhood and environment and Nan never had the love and security she should have had as a child. It made her hard and cold and cruel. She made bad choices in an effort to find love and be loved. I'm glad Abbi Glines finally gives her some redemption in this book. Everything isn't magically fixed--Nan still has a lot to make up with her family and those around her, but Up in Flames marks a big turning point and shows how far Nan has come. It was lovely to see her begin to let go of her hate and to make amends.

Nan has two love interests in Up in Flames; Major and the mysterious Gannon. I'd been hoping that Glines would pair Major with Nan and that he was perhaps going to be her happy ending. Imagine my surprise when I began the novel and quickly realized that might not be the case. Major and Nan just didn't fit the was she and Gannon did. I wasn't expecting that and was really disappointed in the beginning, but as the novel progressed I found myself becoming entranced in the relationship between Nan and Gannon.

I have to say Gannon was sexy; all bearded and strong with that man bun and attitude, but he was also very sexually dominant, bordering on violent. I'm not against those kinds of leading men but it did feel a little out of place in a Rosemary Beach novel at first. It wore on me, but I felt it was strange at first.

The relationship between Nan and Gannon was really raw. Sexual and dark, Gannon gave Nan what she needed and accepted her for everything she was, faults and all. Considering Nan had been crying out for love and acceptance her whole life it was nice to see her finally find someone who could give that to her unconditionally. There was a lot of sweetness woven into their tale amongst the sensuality and I loved the way Glines completed their tale.

Dark and sensual, Up in Flames was a powerful Rosemary Beach novel that redeemed the resident bad girl and allowed us to see many of our faves again. My only issue with this tale is that I find myself still wanting to see Major get some resolution himself. Fast paced with an unexpected storyline, Up in Flames gave Nan the tale she deserved and left me happy with how her story ended!

Rating:
Source: Sent for review by publisher (Thank you guys!)
Publisher: Simon & Schuster Australia
Format: Paperback
Australian RRP: $19.99
Release Date: June 2016
Purchase: Bookworld | Booktopia | The Book Depository | Amazon
Final Thoughts: This was a great ending to the series, but I find I'm still curious as to what's in store for Major's future.

Book Shelf: When You're Back (Rosemary Beach #11) by Abbi Glines

Love is a journey - Rosemary Beach is the destination...The future is bright for Reese Ellis. She has Mase Colt-Manning, the man of her dreams, and a family she didn't know existed until her long-lost father arrived on her doorstep in Rosemary Beach. Everything is finally falling into place.
 
While Reese is visiting her new family in Chicago, Mase spends time with his "cousin," Aida, who has worshipped him since childhood. Unrelated by blood, Mase and Aida have been raised to think of each other as family. But when Reese returns, she can tell something isn't quite right. Aida clearly resents Reese and excels at manipulative little games. And though Mase is unsuspecting, Reese knows Aida doesn't love him like a cousin should...
 
More info on Goodreads......


Review:

When You're Back is the 11th installment in Abbi Gline's addictive Rosemary Beach series and is the second part to Mase and Reese's tale. Sexy, romantic and sweet, Glines brings her trademark sex appeal and weaves it together with an endearing romance.

Reese Ellis experienced a childhood no woman she have to experience, but with the help of Mase Colt-Manning, Reese is learning what it's like to be loved completely and is taking great strides in accomplishing things she always wanted to accomplish. She has new friends, new family and is happy like she's never been, but when Mase's cousin Aida comes to town, Reese begins to wonder if her happily-ever after might not be so solid after all, and it's up to Mase to convince the woman who owns his heart that a life without her simply isn't possible.

There's no denying I'm an Abbi Glines fan. To say anything else would be an outright lie. I enjoy her easy to read style of writing and the amount of drama, passion and love she manages to pack into each of her novels. When You're Back is the conclusion to Mase and Reese's two part story and is everything I enjoy about Glines's books.

It could have been easy to conclude Mase and Reese's story with When I'm Gone, but When You're Back manages to showcase the strength of Mase and Reese's relationship by pushing them and seeing them rise above. I'll admit there was a couple of times in this novel where Mase's reactions to things irked me, and Reese's obliviousness to what was in front of her wore thin, but I still love both of these characters and am thrilled they found happiness with each other.

Abbi Glines allows readers to get a tiny glimpse into the heart and mind of River "Captain" Kipling in When You're Back, Blaire's half-brother and contradiction of a man who is set to star in the next instalment of the series. I quite like what I'm seeing of Captain so far and look forward to getting to know him more as he finds his HEA of his own in the next book.

Passionate, sweet and deeply enjoyable, When You're Back is another great Rosemary Beach novel you can't help but devour!

Rating:
Source: Sent for review by publisher (Thank you guys!)
Publisher: Simon & Schuster Australia
Format: Paperback
Australian RRP: $19.99
Release Date: June 2015
Purchase: Bookworld | The Nile | The Book Depository | Amazon
Final Thoughts: This series is a brilliant NA series and one I highly enjoy! Looking forward to more.

Book Shelf: The Redhead Plays Her Hand (Redhead #3) by Alice Clayton

The third sexy novel in USA TODAY bestselling author Alice Clayton’s playful and erotic Redhead series continues the sizzling romance between actress Grace Sheridan and Hollywood’s hottest leading man Jack Hamilton.

Grace has landed the lead in a new TV series—but when the director asks her to lose fifteen pounds, she goes public with her weight struggles and suddenly develops a huge fan club who support her right to have curves. But between that and the public’s continuing fascination with her “are they or aren’t they” relationship with Jack, Grace begins to wonder if anyone’s really interested in her because of her upcoming TV series, or if it’s all speculation about the size of her ass and her bedroom partner.

Meanwhile, Jack is voted the Sexiest Man Alive and becomes a little too enamored with the party-hard lifestyle. Grace vows to give him the space he needs to find himself, but then he begins to spiral down from lovable Brit to Hollywood brat. People are talking, but are Jack and Grace? Her career is on the rise, and his continues into the stratosphere, but will she be able to catch him if he falls? Will they ever be able to just be a couple who can hold hands when they walk down the street?

More info on Goodreads......


Review:

The Redhead Plays Her Hand is the third and final book in Alice Clayton’s Redhead series and concludes what has been a brilliant series in spectacular fashion, full of all the laughs, fun and romance that has made this series so great!

Grace Sheridan is floating on cloud nine; her relationship with Jack continues to remain strong, her off-Broadway show has just been picked up for TV with Grace in the lead role and she’s finally being recognized for her acting. Her career may be on the rise, but everything quickly goes downhill after Grace is asked by her director to loose fifteen pounds and her weight issue quickly becomes a media spotlight. Thrown by the both the backlash and support she receives, Grace sets out to prove her doubters wrong, while Jack begins to spend a little too much time partying and drinking. Quickly beginning to spiral down thanks to a bad influence and the media circus that accompanies his stardom, Jack soon begins shirking his responsibilities, mistreating his fans and getting into fights. As Grace scrambles to help the man she loves get back on his feet, Jack and Grace go head to head in a move that could see their relationship crumble…..

Man, have I loved this series! Having been lucky to own all the books, I read one after the other and devoured Grace and Jack’s tale. Alice Clayton has kept me highly entertained and eagerly reading along with each instalment. There’s always been a perfect amount of romance, tension and conflict to keep the books interesting and Grace and Jack’s relationship progressing while their careers grew.

I’ve loved following Grace and Jack and have only come to love them individually, and as a couple more with each book. Grace has always been spunky and Jack so darn sexy and cute in his dedication and love for Grace and that hasn’t changed with this instalment. Clayton adds a new conflict to Grace and Jack’s relationship through the downward spiral Jack finds himself in as he struggles with the fame and lack of privacy his career brings.

I think The Redhead Plays Her Hand showcases how human Jack actually is. Prior to this book, he’s always seemed so infallible and took everything in stride—in The Redhead Plays Her Hand, Jack struggles and makes the mistakes a lot of people in Hollywood do. It was nice seeing those around him rally, but I still think Alice Clayton offered a realistic representation of how I imagine life must be for those in the spotlight.

Aside from her sassy and easy nature, I have to commend Alice Clayton for writing Grace to be such a positive role-model where health and weight loss is concerned. Grace really does represent today’s modern woman. She likes to have a drink, and a burger and all bets are off if there’s candy involved. Clayton shows through Grace how much pressure the media and show business can put on a person to be thin and the impact it can have on an individual. Even though Grace exercised and ate healthily, she was still criticized for her curvier figure and seeing how she reacts, and then ultimately embraces who is, was great to read about.

Jack and Grace are still sizzling between the sheets, and in the kitchen, and on the patio…..and, well, you get the gist, as ever. Clayton continues to write scorching sex scenes and sweet, endearing moments as these two build their home together. They’ve made me smile and laugh and continue to do so all the way until the very end with their easy teasing, banter and devotion to one another.

Alice Clayton details Grace and Jack’s final story wonderfully with The Red Head Plays Her Hand. I’ve so enjoyed following them and their friends from beginning to end and although I’m sad to see them go, I think Clayton gives them a well written and well-deserved ending.

Fans of Christina Lauren, Abbi Glines and Sylvia Day are sure to love this series and if you’re a NA fan who likes sass, humor, romance and fun, the Redhead series is one you’re sure to love. Brilliant and sexy from start to finish, I highly suggest you check it out!

Rating:
Source: Sent for review by Simon & Schuster (Thank you guys!)
Format: Paperback
Buy it: Bookworld | The Nile | The Book Depository | Amazon
My Recommendation: Perfect for fans of well written NA full of laughs and fun.
Cover: Goes perfect with the first too.
Will I read sequel/continue with series: This is the final book in the Redhead series but I'll read whatever Alice Clayton releases in the future.

Book Shelf: The Redhead Revealed (Redhead #2) by Alice Clayton

LONG-DISTANCE LOVE JUST GOT HOTTER!

Life is sweet. Grace Sheridan has just won her dream role in a new off-Broadway play, and the talented hunk flooding her phone with scintillating texts and scandalous photos is Jack Hamilton, the twenty-four-year-old “it” Brit whose Hollywood career is about to climax faster than . . . you know. So what if their steamy relationship is bicoastal and under wraps, or that L.A. fangirls are grabbing Jack’s ass?

Absence does make the heart grow fonder and the libido hotter, but their few weekend visits feel more more like fast food than the five-course dinner they crave. And then—the creator of Grace’s new show is the man who broke her heart back in college, and he seems to have written the play just to make amends with his leading lady.

As rumors spread that Jack and his lovely, leggy ex-girlfriend have gotten back together, Grace starts to wonder about her own feelings. Can lust alone keep our favorite, feisty duo together, or will Grace find herself back in safer, more familiar arms?

More info on Goodreads.....


Review:

The Redhead Revealed is the second book in Alice Clayton’s Redhead series and continues to follow aspiring actress Grace Sheridan in this sexy and funny sequel that sees Grace and her man face the next hurdle in their unexpected romance.

The Redhead Revealed picks up where the last book left off—Grace has just moved to New York to act in an off-Broadway show, while Jack is preparing for the launch of the movie that will kick off his Hollywood career and missing his redhead. Grace may be thrilled to be pursuing her dreams, but that doesn’t mean she isn’t deeply missing her Brit and wishing they were together. Grace and Jack are finally reaping the rewards of their acting dreams but as the distance between them begins to get harder and the stolen weekends together become less and less satisfying, will Grace’s fears and insecurities about their relationship cause them to find solace in the arms of other people? Or will they finally decide to fight for what they have, be damned what the media and Jack’s fans think?

Having really enjoying the first book in this series I was glad to find The Redhead Revealed to be a worthy sequel. The first chapter of Grace and Jack’s story ended nicely in the first book and The Redhead Revealed marks the next stage of their journey. The Redhead Revealed is fun, sexy and highly entertaining, but is also more angst ridden and emotional, and sees our passionate couple face some big hurdles in their relationship. Alice Clayton wonderfully explores the difficulties an age difference can make, and the impact the media can have on a couple. I can only imagine what Grace and Jack will go through in the next book, but if The Redhead Revealed is anything to go by, Alice Clayton has a lot in store for these two.

It’s fantastic seeing them work through their issues while continuing to be so deeply in love with each other. Grace and Jack continue to connect so beautifully and I love the deep love and dedication Jack has for Grace. He absolutely adores her, and the comfortable way they interact and live with each other is very endearing. They’re so sweet. Their physical relationship is HOT, but they’re also so very sweet. Personally I think Grace is spunky and so much fun, and Jack Hamilton is just smoking. I mean the boy is a green eyed Brit with curls, a great body and who loves his girl. How can you not love that man?

Grace and Jack go through some tough times in this novel and overcome some obstacles. I’m a little bit aware about what the next novel has in store for them, so I’m expecting Alice Clayton to put them through the wringer once more and am hoping for a happy outcome for Grace, Jack and all the fabulous characters who make up their friends and family in this series!

Rating:
Source: Sent for review by Simon & Schuster (Thank you guys!)
Format: Paperback
Buy it: Bookworld | The Nile | The Book Depository | Amazon
My Recommendation: Love NA? Don't miss this series.....
Cover: Fresh, colorful and simple--I like it.
Will I read sequel/continue with series: Yes!

Book Shelf: The Unidentified Redhead (Redhead #1) by Alice Clayton

When Grace Sheridan returns to Los Angeles to become a working actress, it’s a second shot at a life-long dream. With some help from her best-friend agent, will that dream become a reality—or at thirty-three, has Grace missed her chance at the big time? And when an unexpected sizzling romance with Jack Hamilton, the entertainment industry's newest “it” boy, threatens to shine an uncomfortable spotlight on her life, how will that affect her career…and his?

Funny, borderline neurotic Grace is perfect in her imperfections, and the sexual chemistry between her and charming yet blissfully unaware Jack is off the charts. With laugh-out-loud dialogue and a super-steamy romance that will get your heart racing, sneaking around in L.A. and dodging the paparazzi has never been so fun.

More info on Goodreads.....


Review:

The Unidentified Redhead is Alice Clayton’s first foray into the literacy world and is a fun and saucy read that shows Clayton has been spot on since her debut!

The Unidentified Redhead introduces readers to Grace Sheridan, a thirty-three year old aspiring actress who is on the precipice her acting career taking off. She’s fit, feeling better than ever, and ready to take on the world. Especially when she meets twenty-four year old Jack Hamilton, Hollywood’s hottest up and coming actor and a man who makes Grace weak in the knees by just one look. Age isn’t an issue when this crazy redhead and sexy Brit are together and soon what starts out as innocent sexual innuendos heads towards a romance that neither can deny is hotter than hell and downright frightening in how real and life changing it feels……

As a huge fan of Alice Clayton’s Wallbanger series, I was excited to go back to her debut series and see the novel that began her writing career. The Unidentified Redhead kicks off the Redhead series and I have to say I very much liked what I saw with this first novel. Though Wallbanger is still my preference, The Unidentified Redhead was still a fun and flirty read that feature’s Clayton’s trademark silly humour and sexy intimate moments.

Grace and Jack were a really adorable couple to follow. Grace is a strong and independent woman and Jack is the typical twenty-four year old guy—silly and sexually driven, but someone who also seemed like an old soul at times and who went neck and neck with Grace. One of the reasons these two seem to work so well is that Grace has a really silly side and is very cheeky. She’s quick to make a humorous joke and appreciated all the goofy aspects of Jack. There’s a balance to their relationship that comes across quite quickly and I thought Clayton did a great job of exploring the age gap between the two and how the difference in their ages was more an issue to the world around them than Grace and Jack themselves.

There’s a lot of physical moments between Grace and Jack and boy were they scorching. Foreplay with them is sexier than ever with our two lovers taking their time before they do the deed. I have to admit I appreciated the build-up and seeing them get to know each other. That being said, there was a lot of erotic moments between them with tongues, hands and other body parts coming into play in the lead up to the sexual consummation of this relationship.

With Jack an up and coming leading actor and Grace chasing her dream in show business, Alice Clayton ends The Unidentified Redhead at a crucial point in their lives and leaves the story open for their next chapter. I’m looking forward to seeing how these two deal with being apart and what will happen between them next!

Rating:
Source: Sent for review by Simon & Schuster (Thank you guys!)
Format: Paperback
Buy it: Bookworld | The Nile | The Book Depository | Amazon
My Recommendation: Perfect for lovers of chick-lit and NA.
Cover: I think it's simple but fitting.
Will I read sequel/continue with series: Yes.

Book Shelf: Searching for Someday (Searching For #1) by Jennifer Probst

Kate has given up on love—at least for herself. She is both blessed and cursed with the ability to sense a romantic connection between two people—a gift that her family passed down for generations. When Kate launches her own matchmaking company, Kinnection, with her two best friends in a cozy New York town, she has to put aside her own romantic disasters to make her business a success.
But when a furious man stalks into her office and accuses her business of being a scam, Kate is given the ultimate challenge to prove herself. Slade puts himself in her hands and asks Kate to find him love. Enraged at his arrogance but stubbornly eager to prove herself, Kate agrees, dedicating herself to the journey of finding him love…only to find herself falling for him along the way.

More info on Goodreads.....


Review:

Searching for Someday by Jennifer Probst is an electrifying romance that features sizzling chemistry, sexual tension and outstanding characters! Fun, fresh and addictive, this book is perfect for those who love Alice Clayton or a good rom-com!

Searching for Someday introduces readers to Kate Seymour and Slade Montgomery, two people who have very different views on love, but whose lives are about to collide with sizzling results. Kate Seymour runs a successful matchmaking company called Kinnections alongside her two best friends. Featuring a magic touch passed down through her family, Kate has the ability to know when two people are made for each other and with the help of different techniques and services Kinnections has to offer, has managed to bring love to the lives of many of her customers. Too bad the only person she can't find love for is herself......

Enter Slade Montgomery, a confidant, hot-tempered divorce lawyer and someone whose view on love is pretty much non-existent. Slade's beloved younger sister is Kate's latest client and he's determined to prove that Kinnections is the fraud he thinks it is. Yet what happens when the two meet and sparks erupt, pretty much literally between them? Can the matchmaker and the divorce lawyer prove they are the most surprising couple out there? Or will their fears see them lose out on the chance at love......

Boy, was Searching for Someday a brilliant read! Unexpectedly so. I jumped in headfirst with no expectations and Jennifer Probst caught me hook, line and sinker from the very beginning. Wonderfully told through both Kate and Slade's POV's, Searching for Someday was a highly addictive, electric read that smoldered with chemistry, sexual tension and had all the humor, romance and flair to make it gold!

Both main leads in this novel won me over from the moment I met them. They're both intelligent, successful people in their own rights and the chemistry that sizzled between them was fabulous. Sharp dialogue and banter litters Searching for Someday, and Jennifer Probst supports her story with a great cast of minor characters I'm already dying to learn about.

It was very easy to quickly come to care about both Kate and Slade and I have to give Probst props for including a tiny bit of magic in the story with Kate's ability, but not making it too overpowering. I much preferred focusing on Kate and Slade and their relationship together rather than anything else.

As such a powerful man, Slade practically oozed sexual appeal, and I have to say, I certainly wasn't immune. There's something so sexy about seeing a well put together, calm, calculated and restrained individual loose control and become a slave to their emotions and feelings. Kate was capable and smart and more than willing to hold her own against Slade. Jennifer Probst has created a dynamic pairing with these two and there was nothing I didn't love about them as they sorted out their issues and became better people for it, both individually and as a couple.

Expertly written and sooooo, so good Searching for Someday is a brilliant read and I'm already eager to continue on with the series and discover just what Jennifer Probst has planned for Kennedy, Arilyn and Gen! Fantastic read--definitely recommend!

Rating:
Source: Sent for review by Simon & Schuster (Thank you guys!)
Format: Paperback
Buy it: Bookworld | The Nile | The Book Depository | Amazon
My Recommendation: Perfect for Alice Clayton fans!
Cover: Simple, but sexy--it's Kate!
Will I read sequel/continue with series: YES! I'm ready for more.......

Book Shelf: Second Chance Summer by Morgan Matson

Taylor Edwards’ family might not be the closest-knit—everyone is a little too busy and overscheduled—but for the most part, they get along just fine. Then Taylor’s dad gets devastating news, and her parents decide that the family will spend one last summer all together at their old lake house in the Pocono Mountains.

Crammed into a place much smaller and more rustic than they are used to, they begin to get to know each other again. And Taylor discovers that the people she thought she had left behind haven’t actually gone anywhere. Her former best friend is still around, as is her first boyfriend…and he’s much cuter at seventeen than he was at twelve.

As the summer progresses and the Edwards become more of a family, they’re more aware than ever that they’re battling a ticking clock. Sometimes, though, there is just enough time to get a second chance—with family, with friends, and with love.

More info on Goodreads.....


Review:

Second Chance Summer by Morgan Matson is a sweet, endearing and emotional story about second chances, the power of family and the hope that comes from making things right in the midst of the hardest of circumstances. 

Seventeen year old Taylor Edwards has a history of running. Whenever things get hard, her flight response kicks in. Five years ago this saw her run away from her very first love, but when her father receives some devastating news, her parents decide it’s time to spend one last summer at the lake house they used to frequent all those years before. As Taylor spends the next few months getting to know her family like never before, she not only has the chance to re-connect and make amends with old friends, but has a second chance with the boy who stole her heart all those summers ago…..

Having adored Morgan Matson’s Amy & Rogers Epic Detour, I’m not so sure what led me to leave this book on my shelf for so long. I really enjoy Morgan Matson’s style of writing and her storytelling abilities. Second Chance Summer is a heart-warming and emotional story that is nicely explored and features love, romance, family and friendship---all kind of goodness I really love. It does have its sad and bittersweet moments, especially when it reaches its inevitable end, but Matson supports this with some really sweet and heart-warming moments too.     

Though it’s taken me until now to read this book, I’m actually glad I waited until this point in my life. I experienced the loss of my grandfather this year and my experience was very similar to that of the main character in Second Chance Summer. I have to commend Morgan Matson for her realistic portrayal of Taylor’s father and what he went through. It’s an experience all too real, and made this book all the more beautiful to read. 

Matson writes a worthy main lead with Taylor in this book, who really is just a normal teenager who makes mistakes and bad choices. Taylor is at a point in her life where she’s learning who she is, and I think Matson reflects this well. Taylor can be forgiven for her fears and for making mistakes—everyone does at some point, especially when she redeems herself as the novel progresses.   

Supporting Taylor is a lovely cast of characters that give the story life and feeling. Taylor’s family, including her brother Warren and younger sister Gelsey get to know each other throughout the course of the book, and Matson throws some wonderful personalities into the mix during this story. Taylor’s first love Henry returns, as does her former best friend Lucy, Taylor and her family adopt a dog who provides comfort to her father, and the community around the lake house all bring colour to the story with different moments.

Featuring a heart-warming storyline and emotional moments, Second Chance Summer is a fun and fresh summer read and will appeal to fans of Simone Elkeles, Katie McGarry and those who love well told and meaningful contemporary romance!

Rating:
Source: Sent for review by Simon & Schuster (Thank you guys!)
Format: Paperback
Buy it: Bookworld | The Nile | The Book Depository | Amazon
My Recommendation: For those who love Simone Elkeles, Katie McGarry and Stephanie Perkins.
Cover: Fun and fresh and very colorful.
Will I read sequel/continue with series: This is a standalone novel but I can't wait to read more by Morgan Matson