Book Shelf: Take the Key and Lock Her Up (Embassy Row #3) by Ally Carter

The princess is dead. Long live the princess.

Centuries ago, the royal family of Adria was killed…or so everyone thought.

Now Grace Blakely knows the truth: There was one survivor, and that survivor’s blood runs through her veins. This simple fact could cause a revolution—which is why some people will stop at nothing to keep it from coming to light.

There is only one way for Grace to save herself, save her family, and save the boy she loves. She must outmaneuver her foes, cut through the web of lies that has surrounded her for years, and go back to the source of all her troubles, despite the risk.

If she wins, she will inherit a throne.

And if she loses, she will inherit the fate of all the dead princesses who came before her.

More info on Goodreads.....


Review:

Take the Key and Lock Her Up is the third and final novel in Ally Carter's Embassy Row trilogy and brings the series to a close with Grace facing her final confrontation against those who will stop at nothing to keep the truth about Adria's history a secret.

Grace Blakely knows the truth. Centuries ago the royal family of Adria was killed in a coup, but unbeknownst to most, a single family member managed to survive. And two hundred years later, the blood of that lost princess runs through Grace's veins. Though she wants nothing to do with it, Grace is the rightful heir to the Adrian throne and it's a secret people will kill to protect. Everything Grace has been through has been leading up to this discovery and as Grace faces the source of all her pain and troubles, will she be able to save herself, or will Grace be destined to end up a tradgedy.

Bringing to a close the Embassy Row trilogy, Take the Key and Lock Her Up will finally answer many of the questions readers will have about who has been behind so much of Grace's loss and difficulties. Admittedly, I was a little underwhelmed with Take the Key and Lock Her Up and really the series as a whole if I'm being honest. I don't think Embassy Row was a bad series. I just feel like the first novel had such potential, but the series never seemed to reach a really big climax. There was plenty of danger and excitement and surprising moments, but at the same time I feel like part of the spark was missing from this final book I enjoyed with the first.

Ally Carter has woven plenty of mystery and intrigue into this series, and in the tradition of Anastasia, throws a lost princess and a royal coup into the plotline. It's impossible not to draw comparisons between Amelia and Adria with the infamous missing princess Anastasia and the Russian mystery and I do wonder whether this was intentional by Carter or not.

Brimming with ultimatums and with sacrifices needing to be made, Take the Key and Lock Her Up ends the series in a good place. Easy enough reading and decent enough to entertain, I don't regret reading this trilogy and will most likely read more by Ally Carter in the future.
 
Rating:
Source: Sent for review by publisher (Thank you guys!)
Publisher: Scholastic Australia
Format: Hardback
Australian RRP: $19.99
Release Date: February 2017
Purchase: Bookworld | Booktopia | The Book Depository | Amazon
Final Thoughts: A decent ending to a series that has been easy to read. It didn't blow me away but it left me satisfied.

 

Roar by Cora Carmack Pre-Order Campaign

If you liked these:

You'll LOVE this!

In a land ruled and shaped by violent magical storms, power lies with those who control them.

Aurora Pavan comes from one of the oldest Stormling families in existence. Long ago, the ungifted pledged fealty and service to her family in exchange for safe haven, and a kingdom was carved out from the wildlands and sustained by magic capable of repelling the world’s deadliest foes. As the sole heir of Pavan, Aurora’s been groomed to be the perfect queen. She’s intelligent and brave and honorable. But she’s yet to show any trace of the magic she’ll need to protect her people.

To keep her secret and save her crown, Aurora’s mother arranges for her to marry a dark and brooding Stormling prince from another kingdom. At first, the prince seems like the perfect solution to all her problems. He’ll guarantee her spot as the next queen and be the champion her people need to remain safe. But the more secrets Aurora uncovers about him, the more a future with him frightens her. When she dons a disguise and sneaks out of the palace one night to spy on him, she stumbles upon a black market dealing in the very thing she lacks—storm magic. And the people selling it? They’re not Stormlings. They’re storm hunters.

Legend says that her ancestors first gained their magic by facing a storm and stealing part of its essence. And when a handsome young storm hunter reveals he was born without magic, but possesses it now, Aurora realizes there’s a third option for her future besides ruin or marriage.

She might not have magic now, but she can steal it if she’s brave enough.

Challenge a tempest. Survive it. And you become its master.

Releases June 13th 2017!

As a member of the Official Road Street Team, I've had the pleasure of reading and reviewing Roar ahead of time and can I just say.....it....is....awesome! Rich in magic, adventure and forbidden romance, Roar is one to keep an eye out for this year!

PRE-ORDER CAMPAIGN:

To celebrate Roar's release, US and Canadian readers can submit proof of pre-order and get this gorgeous Skyfire pendant! Submit your proof of purchase here: http://us.macmillan.com/mobile/torforge/promo/roar2017preorderoffer to snag this beauty!

Book Shelf: Memory's Wake (Memory's Wake Trilogy #1) by Selina Fenech

Lost in a world full of monstrous fairies, a troubled sixteen year old has to find out who she is and why her memories were stolen before she is found by those who want her dead.

She takes the name "Memory" and knows she has just one goal - to find her way home, wherever that is. But this land is strange. No technology to be seen, and iron is banned, thanks to a pact the humans have with the magical creatures who share their pre-industrial era world. In her t-shirt and torn jeans, Memory knows she's different, even before she performs impossible magic.

Haunted by her past, chased by a dragon, wanted by the king and stalked by the strange, handsome savage that seems to know her, everyone is after Memory, and she suspects it's not just for her eye-catching outfit. Her forgotten past holds dangerous secrets that will challenge everything she believes and risk the lives of everyone she loves.
 
More info on Goodreads....


Review:

Memory’s Wake is the first novel in Australian writer and illustrator Selina Fenech’s Memory’s Wake Trilogy and is a beautifully depicted and lyrical fantasy world full of magic, adventure and even the perfect hint of romance. 

Waking up in a forest, a confused teenager finds she has no memories of who she is and where she came from. Lost in a seemingly strange world, she finds herself assisted by another beautiful but secretive girl named Eloryn whom she meets in the woods. Taking on the name Memory, all Memory knows is that she must find her way back home. Hunted and chased by strange men, a tyrant king and a dragon, Eloryn and Memory find themselves racing across a magical land inhabited by both humans and fae alike. In a world with no technology and simple living, Memory knows she’s different in her torn jeans and multiple piercings, but as Eloryn and Memory try to determine who to trust—either the charming thief to tries to assist them, or the handsome but strange man who stalks Memory, Memory’s ability to harness dangerous magic make it clear that Memory’s past could change everything….

I have to say I enjoyed Memory’s Wake a lot more than I expected to. There’s an almost fairytale like quality to the story that blends well with the authors lyrical descriptions and vibrant fantasy world. In fact, I’m almost ashamed to say I haven’t read Memory’s Wake until now. As a fixture on the Australian fantasy scene, I have often seen Memory’s Wake and its author Selina Fenech at the various Supanova’s and Oz Comic-Con’s I have attended, but have never pursued the book further until now. I was very much entranced by the world Fenech has created and enjoyed this magical tale—wish I had read it sooner. 

Mysterious and magical, Memory’s Wake features all my favourite aspects of fantasy. I liked the childlike wonder that accompanied the story and that it was a light, softer kind of fantasy that included a lush Victorian fantasy setting, intriguing characters and plenty of magic and friendship to keep me entertained. The beautiful drawings that accompany the story and litter the novel are stunning additions to the story that enhance the reading experience. 

Memory’s Wake is delightfully told in third person and follows a number of characters, with Memory’s voice obviously an important one as well as Eloryn, Roen and Memory’s mysterious follower Will. I really liked all the characters and am already very invested in their tales, especially Eloryn and Roen who seem to be beginning a will-they-won’t-they forbidden romance. 

I very much enjoyed piecing things together and learning about Memory’s past in Memory’s Wake. Selina Fenech has plenty of tricks up her sleeve and some intriguing developments to the story are revealed. Can’t wait to read the second book in the trilogy, Hope’s Reign! 
 
Rating:
Source: Snagged as an Amazon freebie
Publisher: Fairies and Fantasy Pty Ltd              
Format: Ebook
Release Date: June 16th 2011
Get for FREE: Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Kobo
Final Thoughts: Beautiful and whimsical, Memory's Wake was a delightful fantasy and I can't wait to read more!

Waiting on Wednesday #176

Waiting on Wednesday is a weekly event hosted by Breaking The Spine where you can spotlight an upcoming release that you're eagerly anticipating.

This week I'm waiting on.....  

Devils & Thieves by Jennifer Rush

Releases on: October 3rd 2017

Add on Goodreads!

A thrilling new urban fantasy filled with magic and motorcycle gangs from Jennifer Rush, author of the Altered saga--perfect for fans of Beautiful Creatures.

Eighteen-year-old Jemmie Carmichael has grown up surrounded by magic in the quiet town of Hawthorne, New York. In her world, magic users are called "kindled," and Jemmie would count herself among them if only she could cast a simple spell without completely falling apart. It doesn't help that she was also recently snubbed by Crowe, the dangerous and enigmatic leader of the Black Devils kindled motorcycle gang and the unofficial head of their turf.

When the entire kindled community rolls into Hawthorne for an annual festival, a rumor begins spreading that someone is practicing forbidden magic. Then people start to go missing. With threats closing in from every side, no one can be trusted. Jemmie and Crowe will have to put aside their tumultuous history to find their loved ones, and the only thing that might save them is the very flaw that keeps Jemmie from fully harnessing her magic. For all her years of feeling useless, Jemmie may just be the most powerful kindled of all.

Thoughts:
There's something about motorcycle clubs that have always interested me, but the adult and erotic romance versions are often too hardcore for my taste.....so I'm ecstatic to try a YA version of them, especially as it weaves magic and possible romance together. Devils & Thieves has me very exciting and looking for October when it releases!

What do you think of Devils & Thieves? Do you want to read it?
And what are you waiting on this week?

Book Shelf: Wolf's Mate (Wind Dragons MC #5) by Chantal Fernando

From USA TODAY bestselling author Chantal Fernando comes the latest in her steamy Wind Dragons Motorcycle Club series featuring biker bad boys and the strong women who love them.

Vinnie was once the youngest prospect at the infamous Wind Dragons Motorcycle Club but finally, he’s going to be initiated as a full-fledged member! But when Vinnie (now known as Wolf) puts on that WDMC leather for the first time, little does he know what he’s in for. The Wind Dragons have made enemies, and being a member means being on the front lines…

More info on Goodreads.....


Review:

Wolf’s Mate is the 5th instalment in Chantal Fernando’s deeply sensual and addictive Wind Dragon’s MC series and is another edge of your seat romance that brings a world of tempting bikers and mouthy heroine’s alive once more!

There’s nothing more important in Vinnie’s life than his brothers. Proving that some things are stronger than blood, the Wind Dragons are the family Vinnie always yearned for as a discarded foster child without a home. Vinnie is as loyal as they come and he’s determine to be the most honourable man he can be, even if means he’ll need to repay a debt to a rival MC president who straddles the line between friend and pain in the ass. Protecting Talon’s cousin Shayla seems like the easiest marker he could be given, but with the stunning beauty both mouthy and alluring, Vinnie finds himself fighting to keep his hands to himself. With Shayla’s father in prison for fraud and his enemies after Shayla, it becomes clear that the individuals after Shayla will stop at nothing to hurt her, and Vinnie will need the help of his brothers if she’s able to protect the woman he’s coming to care about. 

Back again with another stellar tale, Chantal Fernando details another addictive romance in Wolf’s Mate. As someone who doesn’t read a lot of MC novels, Wind Dragon’s MC manages to beautifully balance club life with family, friends and romance. It’s not too brutal for my tastes but still allows readers to become immersed in a motor cycle club world. It’s raw and gritty, but there’s wonderful bonds of friendship and respect amongst the characters; from the club members to the partners of the members and the women behind the men. 

I found myself enjoying Vinnie’s story a lot more than I was expecting. Some characters you anticipate their stories for what seems like forever, while others sneak up on you when you’re not expecting. Vinnie’s was one of those stories for me. I’d liked Vinnie when were saw him in past Wind Dragon novels, but he hadn’t made the biggest impression on me so I was unsure how much I’d enjoy his story. Thankfully Chantal Fernando made me really care about Vinnie and Shayla and I very much enjoyed their romance. 

I always appreciate being able to see other characters and past couples in series’ and Chantal Fernando certainly allows this to be the case with the Wind Dragon’s books. All our past couples continue to feature and be a part of each new novel, continuing to enhance the feelings of friendship and family exhibited in the MC club. 

Ending perfectly and giving Vinnie and Shayla the HEA they deserve, Wolf’s Mate was another solid tale from Chantal Fernando that doesn’t disappoint. I can’t wait to read Ranger’s tale next and get to know this intelligent biker who has my interest piped! 

Rating:
Source: Purchased by me from Bookworld
Publisher: Gallery Books      
Format: Paperback
Release Date: August 16th 2016
Purchase: Bookworld | Booktopia | The Book Depository | Amazon
Final Thoughts: Another great read in my favourite MC series. Can't wait to read the next one!

 

Free Ebooks

Hi guys and happy Monday!

No Owl Post this week; instead I have some fabulous FREE Amazon ebooks to share with you. Enjoy :)

Did you manage to get something new? I know I did!

 

 

Book Shelf: Defy the Stars (Defy the Stars #1) by Claudia Gray

Noemi is a young and fearless soldier of Genesis, a colony planet of a dying Earth. But the citizens of Genesis are rising up - they know that Earth's settlers will only destroy this planet the way they destroyed their own. And so a terrible war has begun.

When Noemi meets Abel, one of Earth's robotic mech warriors, she realizes that Abel himself may provide the key to Genesis' salvation. Abel is bound by his programming to obey her - even though her plan could result in his destruction. But Abel is no ordinary mech. He's a unique prototype, one with greater intelligence, skill and strength than any other. More than that, he has begun to develop emotions, a personality and even dreams. Noemi begins to realise that if Abel is less than human, he is more than a machine. If she destroys him, is it murder? And can a cold-blooded murder be redeemed by the protection of a world?

Stranded together in space, they go on a whirlwind adventure through Earth's various colony worlds, alongside the countless Vagabonds who have given up planetary life altogether and sail forever between the stars. Each step brings them closer - both to each other and to the terrible decision Noemi will have to make about her world's fate, and Abel's.

More info on Goodreads....


Review:

Defy the Stars is Claudia Gray's breathtaking latest release and is an exhilarating sci-fi tale masterfully blending well developed romance and high stakes action in this incredibly addictive and beguiling novel!

Noemi is a well trained and capable soldier from the planet Genesis, fighting to defend her people from their enemy planet Earth. Abel is one of Earth's mechs; a perfectly created super machine, designed to fight in the war against Genesis and completely one of a kind. Highly intelligent and capable, Abel has spent thirty years alone on a ship lost in space, his conscience developing well past the expected levels of any mech. When one of Noemi's friends is injured in a battle against Earth, they seek refuge on the ship Abel inhabits, and Noemi quickly finds herself forced to rely on the human-like Abel to survive. When tragedy strikes, Noemi decides to make one last ditch effort to protect her people, but when it becomes clear Abel is far from the mindless machine she first thought him to be, will Noemi be able to make the ultimate sacrifice or will love change everything....

Claudia Gray is an author I have been reading for years. I first became a fan when I read her debut novel Evernight and have followed her career ever since. This woman never fails to write a stunning novel, but may have truly outdone herself with Defy the Stars! Perfect for fans of the Starbound series by Amie Kaufman and Meagan Spooner, Defy the Stars is a beautifully told and emotionally vivid story. I was very impressed with the well paced progression of the story and the way the characters and storyline developed.

I felt Noemi and Abel were well rounded and wonderfully developed. With the novel unfolding through the back and fourth point of views of both of them, Gray will make you fall absolutely in love with these two individuals who start out as enemies but soon come to develop a close and unexpected bond. Noemi and Abel are both honorable and noble characters who will make you contemplate who is in the right and who is in the wrong as they journey throughout the galaxy and come to see different point of views of the worlds around them and the ongoing war between planets.

As a mech, Abel was admittedly the highlight of the novel for me. Though I loved Noemi, Abel thrilled me from start to finish as he continued to experience new thoughts and feelings and became so very human. It was beautifully written on Claudia Gray's part, especially the complex relationship Abel has with his creator and the little things, such as adoring Casablanca, that made Abel such a personable character.

As the novel progresses, Defy the Stars will make you continually think and question things as you follow Noemi and Abel on their life changing journey. Entertaining and exciting, Defy the Stars was a spectacularly told story, well balanced and perfectly woven together story. Even if the ending of the novel did slay me and break my heart somewhat.

Perfectly written and so very good, Defy the Stars is a 2017 read I highly recommend and something I will continue to think about even though it's over. Can't wait to see what Claudia Gray has in store with this series next as there's so many facets of this world she could explore!
 
Rating:
Source: Sent for review by publisher via Allen & Unwin (Thank you guys!)
Publisher: Hot Key Books
Format: Paperback
Australian RRP: $19.99
Release Date: 29th March 2017
Purchase: Bookworld | Booktopia | The Book Depository | Amazon
Final Thoughts: Despite featuring an ending guaranteed to make you emotional, I absolutely love Defy the Stars and really hope we have a chance to see more Noemi and Abel in the future!

Blog Tour: Quanta Rewind by Lola Dodge- Excerpt & Giveaway

Welcome to the Blog Tour for Quanta Rewind by Lola Dodge thanks to YA Bound Book Tours! Quanta Rewind is the fourth novel in The Shadow Ravens series and I absolutely love this series, having now read all four books. Highly recommend you check out this brilliant series!

_______________________

With more and more Red Helixes turning up missing or dead, the Shadow Ravens are ready to take their fight to Doctor Nagi himself.

But breaking into Alpha Citadel is no cakewalk, and Quanta isn’t so sure about this whole “teamwork” thing.

If she and the Ravens can’t learn to work together, no amount of rewinding time will save them from the inevitable.

And if the Seligo win, everyone loses.

Add on Goodreads or check out my 4 star review!

Purchase:

Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Kobo | iBooks
 

Check out my other reviews of the books in the series:

Cipher | Quanta | Quanta Reset

Check out the whole Shadow Raven series on Goodreads!

 

From Quanta Rewind......

"GUYS!" Dex's voice boomed across the hangar.

I groaned. He had to mess with us now?

"Get over here," Knight called. "Now."

Dex would jerk us around, but Knight? Nope.

My brain clicked straight into action mode. "Emergency?"

"Let's find out." Tair grabbed his glasses and tugged me to my wobbly feet. Together, we booked it to mission control.

I could tell it was bad from halfway across the hangar, but everyone stood staring at the vid screen in horror instead of arming up. The hangar wasn't under attack. So what was happening? Tair and I sprinted so fast we were on top of the group before the timeghosts could hint what I'd missed.

"What —" As soon as I spoke, the future twisted. My vision cut to pure blue as timeghosts took over my head, flashing me a thousand death scenes at once. Tair. Cipher. Knight. Devan. Dex. And me.

All falling, screaming, bleeding.

I gripped my temples hard and tried to shake free of the images, but they kept hold, death after death after death. Whatever was set in motion, it wasn't just the six of us who'd suffer. Oliver. Mona. Lady Eva. Kiri and Aliya. More Shadow Ravens.

Everyone.

Everyone was in danger.

"Quanta." Tair held me in his arms, and panic rang through his voice. "Quanta."

I gripped his T-shirt and rebuilt my mental walls. When the timeghosts disappeared, I finally blinked back to the present, where I needed to finish the question I'd started.

I staggered out of Tair's arms. "What just happened?"

"Eva sent ... Just watch." Knight only stepped away from Cipher long enough to cue up a video file. Then he wrapped her back into his arms, whispering reassurances I didn't get to hear.

The vid screen stole my breath away.

Doctor Nagi stared dead at us. He wore his dark hair slicked back the same as ever, and his thin lips twisted in the cold, familiar smile that made me want to throw u p everything I'd ever eaten.

Lola is a compulsive traveler, baker, and procrastinator. She earned her BA in English from Stonehill College and MFA in Writing Popular Fiction from Seton Hill University—and hasn’t stopped moving since. When she’s not on the road, Lola spends her time indoors where the sunlight can’t melt her, writing or bingeing on anime and cherry soda. She can be summoned in a ritual involving curry, Hello Kitty idols, and a solid chocolate pentagram.

Visit Lola:

Website | Goodreads | Twitter | Facebook

 

ENTER THE GIVEAWAY HERE!

 

Book Shelf: Quanta Rewind (The Shadow Ravens #4) by Lola Dodge

With more and more Red Helixes turning up missing or dead, the Shadow Ravens are ready to take their fight to Doctor Nagi himself.

But breaking into Alpha Citadel is no cakewalk, and Quanta isn’t so sure about this whole “teamwork” thing.

If she and the Ravens can’t learn to work together, no amount of rewinding time will save them from the inevitable.

And if the Seligo win, everyone loses.

More info on Goodreads.....


Review:

Quanta Rewind is the fourth instalment in the Shadow Raven’s series, featuring Quanta and Altair for the third time around as they continue on their fight against Doctor Nagi and the Seligo in a fast paced, action filled and adrenaline pumping novel.

 

As more and more Red Helixes go missing or turn up dead, the Shadow Ravens find themselves having to take the fight to Doctor Nagi as he kidnaps those that are near and dear to them in an effort to lure them out of hiding. Breaking out of Alpha Citadel was one thing, but breaking in will be a new issue as Quanta, Tair and the other Shadow Ravens decide to launch a rescue mission to save their friends, and hoping to stop Doctor Nagi once and for all. With so many factors in play and all scenarios seeming to end in bloodshed, the Shadow Ravens are in for their most dangerous fight yet, and this time Quanta’s ability to rewind time may not be enough to save them…..

 

In another fast paced and enjoyable read, Quanta and Tair take centre stage again in Quanta Rewind, going up against the controlling and overzealous Doctor Nagi in an effort to save those they love. Lola Dodge writes another quick and entertaining read with Quanta Rewind. Entertaining, endearing and exciting at times, Quanta Rewind is just a solid read.
 

I loved seeing Quanta and Tair join Ciper, Knight, Devon and Dex once more. This series is such a fun one to read. After the first novel featuring Ciper, we've had the pleasure of following Quanta and Altair for three who novels, but really all the characters are highly entertaining to follow.

 

The world of the Selgio is very intriguing. Those perfect and altered genetically individuals mixing with the underground worlds of rebels and tech savvy risk takers--it's got a lot of potential. Quanta Rewind ends really well but I still want to see so much more of this world. Devon and even Tair's sister Cassie would make such great heroines to follow and I can only hope to see more of the Shadow Ravens down the track!

 

Highly entertaining and action packed, Quanta Rewind is another great read in a fabulous series. Definitely recommend!

 

Rating:
Source: Sent for review by YA Bound Book Tours and the author (Thank you ladies!)
Publisher: Ink Monster LLC      
Format: Kindle ebook
Release Date: April 25th 2017
Purchase: Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Kobo | iBooks
Final Thoughts: Another solid Shadow Ravens instalment. Hope to see more of this series in the future!

Waiting on Wednesday #175

Waiting on Wednesday is a weekly event hosted by Breaking The Spine where you can spotlight an upcoming release that you're eagerly anticipating.

This week I'm waiting on.....  

One Dark Throne by Kendare Blake

Releases on: September 19th 2017
Add on Goodreads!

 

The battle for the Crown has begun, but which of the three sisters will prevail?

With the unforgettable events of the Quickening behind them and the Ascension Year underway, all bets are off. Katharine, once the weak and feeble sister, is stronger than ever before. Arsinoe, after discovering the truth about her powers, must figure out how to make her secret talent work in her favor without anyone finding out. And Mirabella, once thought to be the strongest sister of all and the certain Queen Crowned, faces attacks like never before—ones that put those around her in danger she can’t seem to prevent.

In this enthralling sequel to Kendare Blake’s New York Times bestselling Three Dark Crowns, Fennbirn’s deadliest queens must face the one thing standing in their way of the crown: each other.

 

Thoughts:

I unexpectedly LOVED Three Dark Crowns last year and am super stoked for the second novel. Honestly, I hadn't expected to enjoy Three Dark Crowns to the extend I did, and even though it seems to be a mixed bucket when it comes to people enjoying that novel, I find myself so eager to see what happens next. I'm totally invested in the characters, even if September seems like too long to wait!

 

What do you think of One Dark Throne? Did you enjoy the first book?

And what are YOU waiting on this week?

 

 

Book Shelf: Rake's Redemption (Wind Dragons MC #4) by Chantal Fernando

In New York Times bestselling author Chantal Fernando’s latest novel in the Wind Dragons Motorcycle Club series, Rake—baddest of the bad boys—gets his own romance at last!

Rake is known for being up for anything, in and out of the bedroom. He’s wild, he’s deadly, yet quick with a joke or a stolen kiss. Known as the player of the WDMC, he loves women, the more the merrier. However, behind his womanizing façade, Rake hides the pain of losing his first love, Bailey. He hasn’t loved anyone since, and doesn’t think he ever will.

Seven years after their split, Rake and Bailey run into each other at the MC’s favorite club. Old wounds resurface, secrets are spilled...and passionate feelings are awakened. But they’ve each done things to hurt the other, hurt them too badly to get over it—haven’t they? Only when Bailey’s connection to Rake puts her in danger from another Club member does he realize that there’s nothing he won’t do to protect her—and claim her as his once again.

More info on Goodreads.....


Review:

Kicking off the fourth instalment in the Wind Dragon’s Motorcycle Club series, Rake Redemption by Chantal Fernando is another deeply alluring and sizzling romance that is guaranteed to once again suck you into this dark, emotional world of bikers and the women who own their hearts. 

Wind Dragons MC member Rake is the ultimate manwhore; known for his darker sexual preferences and his pertinent for being with multiple woman at once. Rake enjoys no strings sex, the wilder the better. But underneath this is the pain of losing his first and only love Bailey. Her betrayal changed Rake forever, but when a chance encounter see’s the stunning single mother back in Rake’s life after several long years, will Rake and Bailey find a second chance at happiness? Or will the secrets of their past destroy their chance for a happy future?

Rake’s always been a character I’ve enjoyed seeing and I really loved what Chantal Fernando has done with him in this book. Rake and Bailey share a past; a powerful, consuming love that was shattered by a seeming act of betrayal that isn’t what it seems. Rake and Bailey have hurt each other, but after all these years, they still yearn for the other like no one in their life has ever made them yearn before. I liked that Chantal Fernando gave Rake and Bailey a history. Their feelings for one another aren’t anything new, and we get to discover them as they rediscover each other and get to know the people they are now.

As with all New Adult/romance type novels, not everything is as it seems in Rake’s Redemption, and as Bailey and Rake learn of each other’s mistakes and assumptions, it was really nice to see the truth revealed and them fall in love once more—if they were ever out of love that is! Chantal Fernando includes all our past cast favourites and introduces readers to some new ones too. I look forward to getting to know Tia, and thought Cara and Rhett were just the sweetest kids.

Rich in fun, chemistry and plenty of simmering sex scenes, Rake’s Redemption is another brilliant Wind Dragon’s MC novel and leaves me so excited for Vinnie’s story next. Can’t wait to start reading Wolf’s Mate as soon as I can!

Rating:
Source: Purchased by me.
Publisher: Gallery Books      
Format: Paperback
Release Date: June 28th 2016
Purchase: Bookworld | Booktopia | The Book Depository | Amazon
Final Thoughts: Another great read that definitely entertains and leaves me wanting more!

HAPPY EASTER

Wishing each and everyone of you a safe and Happy Easter!

 

I hope it is filled with fun, family and of course lots of chocolate ;)

 

 

Lots of love xoxo

 

 

 

Book Shelf: Fate's Fables (Fate's Journey #1) by T. Rae Mitchell

This beautifully intricate fantasy, with its feisty heroine, breath-taking action and heart-wrenching romance, will delight fans of The Lunar Chronicles and A Court of Thorns and Roses.

Reality sucks. Make-believe rocks. That's been Fate Floyd's motto for as long as she's been a fantasy geek. But now she can hardly tell what's real and what's not. She's been spelled and mysteriously trapped within a deadly fairy tale world bound by the Book of Fables. Her only way home is to travel through the book's 8 unfortunate fairy tales and change them into happily-ever-afters. And if dealing with scheming sorceresses, greedy goblins and heartless faeries isn't enough to test her sanity, there's Finn. The Scottish boy who looks like he stepped straight out of her dreams. As it turns out, make-believe isn't as fun as Fate thought it would be. The reality is, her road to freedom isn't straight, and danger lurks around every bend.

More info on Goodreads.....


Review:

Fate’s Fables by T. Rae Mitchell is an entertaining and adventure riddled fantasy tale that is brimming with magical creatures, powerful individuals and mysterious discoveries. 

Fate Floyd has always enjoyed fantasy over reality, but her love of all things fictional is put to the test when Fate finds herself sucked into a book of unfortunate fairy tales alongside a mysterious young man names Finn who is eerily familiar and the only way for them to escape the Book of Fables is for Fate and Finn to change the endings of each of the eight tales into happily-ever-afters. Each tale is more dangerous than the next and with plenty of unexpected forces determined to keep Fate and Finn from altering the tales, Fate and Finn will find themselves on a life changing journey where happiness is far from guaranteed….

T. Rae Mitchell has created a fun and adventure filled fantasy tale with Fates Fables, kicking off the Fate’s Journey series. Unfolding mainly through Fate and Finn’s POV, with an occasional different character thrown into the mix, Fate’s Fables takes you into the heart of eight very different fairy-tales, all sporting the trademark traits that make fairy-tales what they are; good versus evil, romance, monsters, magic and of course good triumphing over evil in the end. 

Fate’s Fables focuses on a decent bunch of characters. Fate and Finn were easy to follow and Sithias made me smile on more than one occasion. That snakeman was certainly unique and although he had his own form of a happily ever after in Fate’s Fables, I would love to see him again down the track as his personality really shone as a highlight in the story for me. 

I have to say I was surprised by the level of growth the main two characters undertake in Fate’s Fables. Fate and Finn become almost completely different people throughout the story; most especially Fate, who goes from normal teenage girl to a sword wielding, battle capable warrior from what seems like one moment to the next. Don’t get me wrong; I understand these developments within the story and seeing as large levels of time often pass throughout the novel (weeks, sometimes months are jumped) it makes sense that Fate would be drastically altered, but I still couldn’t help but feel it was a lot of change for one novel. It was the kind of growth I’d expected over the course of a series, not just the first book. That being said, Fate and Finn both go through a lot so it’s understandable they would develop because of this.   

Overall Fate’s Fables was an entertaining read, perfect for anyone who loves fairy-tales and wants to jump straight into the story. I look forward to seeing what T. Rae Mitchell has in store for Fate and Finn in the next instalment! 

Rating:
Source: Sent for review by publisher via Netgalley (Thank you guys!)
Publisher: Original Mix Media Inc              
Format: Kinde ebook via Netgalley
Release Date: August 25th 2016
Purchase:  The Book Depository | Amazon | Barnes & Noble
Final Thoughts: Unique and worth reading, I hope to read the sequel to discover what happens to Fate and Finn next.

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Here's a glimpse into NEPHILIM FALLING: A TRENTON INVESTIGATIONS NOVEL by Felicia Beasley whose novel DESCENT is one of the goes you can snag for free!

They say demons and angels don’t mix. I say people should mind their own damn business.

 My brother, Damian, has been my rock ever since mom left. Didn’t matter that I'm demon-blooded. I was his and he was mine.

But nothing lasts forever.

He wants me to go to college. I’d rather fight a hundred sentinels than lead a boring, safe life hiding who I am. So when a nephilim goes missing, I go behind Damian’s back to find the teen. Maybe if I can solve the case, he will upgrade me to his partner in crime solving.

As bodies begin dropping, I realize I’m in way over my head. But there’s no way I’m going to admit that, not when my future hangs in the balance. It's do or die time, and I'm not going down without a fight.

Veronica Mars meets Buffy the Vampire Slayer in this murder mystery with attitude. Nothing but snark, butt-kicking, and sass. You’ve been warned…

Add on Goodreads or check out on Amazon!

Telling a girl she has to stay in the car and study while you and your bestie hunt down a swindling frog demon is like expecting a four-year-old to eat her broccoli while you eat a giant slice of chocolate cake.

Don’t be surprised when she lunges across the table and snatches it from your lips.

Just as Damian shouldn’t have been surprised when I flew out of the car at the first sight of the demon ribbiting out the back door of the bustling demon-run casino.

The biting winds of February cut my cheeks and brought tears to my eyes, blurring my vision. I only had an insulated parka for protection. Really needed to remember to put on a hat, mittens, and scarf next time I wanted to chase a bad guy in the middle of a Minnesotan winter.

The stench of swamp and mold hit my nose. I gagged. Even if I were a blind, deaf mute, I’d be able to follow this guy just with my sensitive nose.

I slipped on the ice patches coating the parking lot. I thanked my demon reflexes that I was able to remain on my feet and not land on my ass.

They should put down more salt. Wouldn’t want a pesky lawsuit or something.

He glanced over his shoulder, beady black eyes bugging out at how much I’d gained in just a few seconds. His powerful legs launched him high into the air. He landed farther with each leap as his feet hit grass. He hopped straight for the tree line in the distance. Probably hoped he could lose me in the dense thicket.

He probably would.

The casino was in no man’s land, but because it appealed to demons rather than humans, there was a nearby waypoint, just through the forest.

It saved on gas.

If he made it to the portal, he’d be gone. I wasn’t dumb enough to follow into the demon domain of Sheol. I liked living.

Snow crunched under my boots. Boots made for walking, not traipsing through a winter wonderland.

I pushed my legs to go faster, calves burning, arms pumping. A five-mile run every morning did wonders for my long-term stamina but did nothing to give me the burst of speed I needed to catch the fat toad.

You had to do sprints for that. I hated sprints.

Luckily I had some demon abilities to make up for the human-side deficiencies.

He broke the tree-line, swallowed by impenetrable darkness. My job just got a hell of a lot harder.

My pace slowed as I followed him into the foreboding forest. The snow here was packed tighter, with a narrow path all the demons used to go from the waypoint to gamble and drink to excess.

At first, there seemed to be too many tracks to know which belonged to the mad frog. Then I noticed where each step sank deeper into the snow. The stride was farther apart as well. Like someone had leaped with powerful fervor.

Cha-ching! Jackpot.

The trail of his hops swerved into the thicker woods where the snow was fresh and untouched except for his imprints.

Stupid, stupid frog.

I burst into a ten-by-ten clearing and stopped. The pristine snow marked the end of the line. There were no more footprints to follow. It took me a second to put the pieces together.

Stupid, stupid Lex.

 

Want more? Head to: www.feliciabeasley.com to discover more!