Wednesday, January 31, 2018

Waiting on Wednesday #211

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.....
  
Zombie Abbey by Lauren Baratz-Logsted 
Releases on: April 3rd 2018

1920, England

And the three teenage Clarke sisters thought what they’d wear to dinner was their biggest problem…

Lady Kate, the entitled eldest.
Lady Grace, lost in the middle and wishing she were braver.
Lady Lizzy, so endlessly sunny, it’s easy to underestimate her.

Then there’s Will Harvey, the proud, to-die-for—and possibly die with!—stable boy; Daniel Murray, the resourceful second footman with a secret; Raymond Allen, the unfortunate-looking young duke; and Fanny Rogers, the unsinkable kitchen maid.

Upstairs! Downstairs! Toss in some farmers and villagers!

None of them ever expected to work together for any reason.

But none of them had ever seen anything like this.


Thoughts:
I've somewhat selective when I decide to read historical novels and they have to feature two things; romance and a paranormal/fantasy element. Zombie Abbey has BOTH these things AND the description mentions three sisters and then THREE young men meaning most likely no love triangle **dies happy** All I can say with this novel is "Gimme. Gimme!" 


Are you a fan of historical novels at all?
And what are YOU waiting on this week?



Tuesday, January 30, 2018

Release Blitz: The Upside to Being Single by Emma Hart- Excerpt

I'm excited to help Emma Hart celebrate the release of her latest novel The Upside to Being Single! Emma is a new author to me, but I've enjoyed what I've read so far and definitely love the sound of The Upside to Being Single.
___________________________________

If anyone asks, I knew better than to flash my boobs for Mardi Gras beads.

I still don’t know why I did it.
Maybe it was the dare from my two best friends.
Maybe it was the guys on the balcony saying they’d throw Fireball shots with the beads.
Or maybe it was the quiet guy in the corner of that same balcony with piercing gray eyes, wavy dark hair, and a smile so tempting I wanted to climb up there and lick it off his face.
Maybe it was because I never thought I’d see them again.
Not that it matters. Not today.
Because the hotel I manage was finally bought—and the guy who walks in and introduces himself as my new boss is Mr. Tall, Dark, and Silent.

There are many upsides to being single.
Your new boss knowing what your boobs look like?
Not one of them. 



Purchase: 


The Upside to Being Single......

“I just—I don’t get it.” I threw myself onto the sofa and almost sent the box of donuts flying onto the floor.

Thankfully, Peyton was quicker than the box. She grabbed it and sat back, hugging it to herself. “First, watch the donuts. I got the last two pink sprinkles, and I’m partial to them.” She stroked the top of the box. “Second, what don’t you get? How he doesn’t care about your boobs? I don’t care about them either.”

“You’re not supposed to care about my boobs. You’re a woman, for a start.”

“I care about your boobs,” Chloe interrupted, tucking her blond hair behind her ear. “I think you have great boobs. Bra or no bra.”

“Usually no bra,” Peyton added.

“I’m not afraid to throw something at you,” I warned her. “This is awkward.”

“Ugh! Get over yourself, Melanie!” Peyton snapped her fingers. “You are a grown woman. He is a grown man. He saw your tits. So what? Steven Lawrence saw your tits five times in junior year.”

I snatched a donut from the box. Don’t tell my hips. “We were dating! It’s entirely different!”

Chloe delicately picked up a white-iced donut before saying, “She’s right. It is different, Peyt. They were dating, and Jacob is her boss. You can’t expect her to just get over that. It is partly your fault.”

“It’s just as much your fault,” Peyton reminded her, then looked at me and nodded toward Chloe. “Drunky smurf over here shook her Tic-Tacs like she was in front of a bachelor party leaving a curry house.”

I choked on my laughter. “That’s not the point. You got us drunk. It’s almost entirely your fault.”

“Look, sunshine,” she said, tearing a bite of donut off the ring so her words were muffled. “I didn’t grab your shirt and whip it up like a two-dollar hooker on overtime. You did that, so grow a pair and take responsibility for your actions.”

“You sound like you don’t want to take responsibility for yours.”

“Hey. You’re big girls. You can refuse cocktails.”

Chloe and I shared a glance. “Refuse cocktails?” she said. “I don’t understand.”

“You have us mixed up with your other friends,” I continued. “But, wait. You don’t have other friends.”

“I have plenty of friends,” Peyt said.

“Friends without penises. Or benefits.”

She paused. “We’re not talking about me. We’re talking about your hot boss who knows what your tits look like.”

“You’re not helping.”

“I’m not trying to help. I’m trying to slap your size-eight ass into reality, you idiot.”

“Slap mine into reality and I’m putting yours on a catapult. Right into the middle of the gulf.” I tore my donut in two and gave her boobs a pointed look. “I always wondered if silicone would float.”

Want more (I do!)? Get your copy today!

By day, New York Times and USA Today bestselling New Adult author Emma Hart dons a cape and calls herself Super Mum to two beautiful little monsters. By night, she drops the cape, pours a glass of whatever she fancies—usually wine—and writes books.

Emma is working on Top Secret projects she will share with her followers and fans at every available opportunity. Naturally, all Top Secret projects involve a dashingly hot guy who likes to forget to wear a shirt, a sprinkling (or several) of hold-onto-your-panties hot scenes, and a whole lotta love.

She likes to be busy—unless busy involves doing the dishes, but that seems to be when all the ideas come to life.

Visit Emma:

Monday, January 29, 2018

Free Ebooks

Happy Monday book lovers. Lets kick the week off with some Amazon freebies!

 

Hope you managed to get something new!

Saturday, January 27, 2018

Book Shelf: Silver Silence (Psy-Changeling Trinity #1) by Nalini Singh

New York Times bestselling author Nalini Singh introduces a bold new chapter in her extraordinary paranormal romance saga with the Psy-Changeling Trinity series. Wild passion will encounter the darkest of betrayal...

Control. Precision. Family. These are the principles that drive Silver Mercant. At a time when the fledgling Trinity Accord seeks to unite a divided world, with Silver playing a crucial role as director of a worldwide emergency response network, wildness and chaos are the last things she needs in her life. But that’s exactly what Valentin Nikolaev, alpha of the StoneWater Bears, brings with him.

Valentin has never met a more fascinating woman. Though Silver is ruled by Silence—her mind clear of all emotion—Valentin senses a whisper of fire around her. That’s what keeps him climbing apartment buildings to be near her. But when a shadow assassin almost succeeds in poisoning Silver, the stakes become deadly serious…and Silver finds herself in the heart of a powerful bear clan.

Her would-be assassin has no idea what their poison has unleashed...


More info on Goodreads......


Review: 

Silver Silence is the first novel in Nalini Singh's Psy-Changeling Trinity series and marks the beginning of a new array of full length novels featuring new couples and new romances in our beloved Psy-Changeling world. 

Silver Merchant is a member of one of the most renowned and infamous Psy families. Known for their control, precision and loyalty to family, the Merchant's are a powerful force. As the director of a new worldwide emergency response network she hopes will thrive under the new Trinity Accord, Silver utilizes her Silence as a weapon and has no use for emotion. Valentin Nikolaev is the alpha of the StoneWater bears and knows exactly what he wants; Silver. The seemingly cold as ice woman fascinates him like no other and both bear and man are determined to make Silver theirs. Sensing a hidden fire behind her icy demeanor, Valentin is determined to make Silver feel the powerful emotions he is sure she is capable of. Silver and Valentin may be wildly different, but when an attempt is made on Silver's life and brings the stoic Psy into the heart of bear territory, will the cheeky alpha be able to convince the woman he wants to give in or will Silver's Silence be too strong to break?


What can I say but congratulations to Nalini Singh on another story so very well done! Silver Silence is a perfectly written, paced and explored addition to the story that allows readers to finally see Kaleb's old aid turned humanity aid director Silver Merchant front and center. I've been intergued by Silver ever since she was first introduced to the series as someone in Kaleb's inner circle and I'm thrilled with how Singh wrote her story!


Silver has always come across as a very serious, cold individual so it was wonderful to see her thaw throughout this novel. Even though Silver utilized her abilities through Silence, it was adorable to see the small things start to break through; her appreciation of Valentin's small gifts, her enjoyment of verbally sparring with him and being in his company--this all made it clear there was a softer more vulnerable side to her while still allowing Silver to be the "Silver Fucking Merchant" the world saw. 


And in saying that, so much of Silver's growth and development was thanks to the man determined to win her heart, Valentin. I loved Valentin and thought he was the perfect balance of cheeky, relentless man and capable alpha. It made me smile to no end the lengths Valentin went to for Silver. His actions of courting her were so very endearing to witness. 


The StoneWater bears were a fantastic addition to the series and it was a great dynamic to witness. As with DarkRiver and SnowDancer in the past, I think StoneWater has a lot of potential stories within it as Singh introduced readers to so many personable new characters including Silver's brother Arwen and naughty bear Pavel who I'm hoping will be our first M/M romance in this series down the track. These two definitely have chemistry. 


With plenty of sharp and witty dialogue and some adorable scenes of friendship and family within this rambunctious bear pack, Silver Silence was a highly addictive read that I just devoured. Nalini Singh shows no sign of slowing down where this series is concerned and leaves me DYING to read the next story which features Bowen Knight. Bring it on!


Rating: 
Source: Sent for review by publisher via Netgalley (Thank you guys!)
Publisher:
Berkley
Format: Kindle ebook via Netgalley (I have also since bought a paperback copy for myself)
Release Date: June 13th 2017
Purchase: Bookworld | Booktopia | The Book Depository | Amazon
Final Thoughts: Another brilliant installment that I just adored--cannot wait until the next one releases!



 

Friday, January 26, 2018

Book Blitz: Fury Frayed by Melissa Haag- Excerpt & Giveaway

Welcome to the Book Blitz for Fury Frayed by Melissa Haag presented by Xpresso Book Tours! After reading the excerpt I have to share with you today, I deftintely want to read this book myself. Why don't you check it out!
________________________________

Megan’s temper lands her in Girderon Academy, an exclusive school founded in a town of misfit supernatural creatures. It’s the one place she should be able to fit in, but she can’t. Instead, she itches to punch the smug sheriff in his face, pull the hair from a pack of territorial blondes, and kiss the smile off the shy boy’s face. Unfortunately, she can’t do any of that, either, because humans are dying and all clues point to her.

With Megan’s temper flaring, time to find the real killer and clear her name is running out. As much as she wants to return to her own life, she needs to embrace who and what she is. It’s the only way to find and punish the creature responsible.



Purchase: 

 
From Fury Frayed.....

“WHAT WAS THAT FOR?” HE ASKED. ANGER HAD WIPED OUT ANY HINT OF MOCKING CURIOSITY FROM HIS TONE.

I COULD ALSO FEEL THE THROB IN MY FIST. HE HAD A HARD NOSE.

“TO SEE IF YOU WERE REAL.”

“MOST PEOPLE PINCH.” HE SOUNDED A BIT MORE NASALLY THAN HE HAD BEFORE.

MY IMAGINATION WAS SURE GOOD AT ADDING THE LITTLE DETAILS NEEDED TO MAKE THIS ALL FEEL REAL. I DIDN’T LET IT DISTRACT ME FROM THE MOMENT, THOUGH.

“MOST PEOPLE DON’T WALK AROUND IN SOMEONE ELSE’S BACKYARD WHILE BUTT NAKED.” NOT THAT I ACTUALLY MINDED THAT PART. HIS BICEPS WERE CLEARLY DEFINED, AND HIS THIGHS WERE THICKER THAN MY HEAD. REALIZING WHERE MY GAZE HAD WANDERED, I QUICKLY LOOKED UP AGAIN.

HE SHOOK HIS HEAD AND RELEASED MY WRIST.

“WHERE WERE YOU GOING?” HE ASKED.

“TO TOWN. DO YOU OWN PANTS?”

“IT WOULD BE BETTER IF YOU STAYED HERE.”

“FOR WHO?”

“YOU.”

“STAY IN A HOUSE WHERE A GUY SHOWS UP NAKED IN THE BACKYARD? YEAH, THAT’S NOT SOUNDING LIKE A GOOD OPTION.”

“IT’S THE SAFEST ONE.”

“OF COURSE, YOU WOULD THINK THAT. BUT SINCE THIS IS MY DREAM, I’M GOING TO SEE HOW MANY MORE NAKED MEN ARE FROLICKING AROUND THIS PLACE.”

HE STAYED QUIET FOR A MOMENT, STUDYING ME. I WAS JUST ABOUT TO TURN AND WALK TO THE FRONT OF THE HOUSE WHEN HE SPOKE AGAIN.

“THE PEOPLE IN THIS TOWN ARE GOING TO EAT YOU UP AND SPIT YOU OUT.”

WITHOUT WARNING, HE SCOOPED ME UP AND WALKED INTO THE HOUSE WITH ME. IN THE LIGHT OF THE KITCHEN, I STUDIED HIS FACE. HE LOOKED MAD, HIS JAW HARD AND A FROWN TUGGING HIS LIPS. VERY NICE LIPS. HIGH CHEEKBONES AND A STRONG NOSE. HIS GAZE FLICKED DOWN TO ME JUST BEFORE HE STARTED UP THE STAIRS. DEEP BLUE EYES. I HAD AMAZING TASTE IN DREAM MEN.

WHEN HE TURNED TO MY ROOM, MY HEART SKIPPED A BEAT. WAS I REALLY GOING TO DREAM THIS? A NAKED MAN CARRYING ME TO BED? I KNEW WHERE THIS WAS HEADED.

Want more? Get your copy today!


I love writing paranormal and fantasy romance stories. After finishing up the Judgement of the Six series, I thought I was ready to trade in my broody shifter males for something bit more mythological. Wouldn’t you know it…a few shifters snuck in! But, I managed a healthy selection of other creatures that made this series truly unique for me.

Writing characters with realistic motivations in a fantasy world is always fun. Fury Frayed was no exception. I laughed so many times while writing the first draft and again during the editing process. I hope you enjoy reading it just as much as I enjoyed writing it!

Visit Melissa:


a Rafflecopter giveaway

Thursday, January 25, 2018

Book Shelf: Being Brooke (Barley Cross #1) by Emma Hart

My name is Brooke Barker...

And I'm a freaking disaster.

No, seriously. I’m a college drop-out working a dead-end job, my best friend Carly’s dog gets more action than I do, and I have more bad dates in my diary than there are movie remakes.

Not to mention I'm completely and utterly in love with Cain Elliott.

The problem? He’s in a relationship. With a girl who’s so plastic she makes Barbie cry herself to sleep with jealousy.

The second problem? He's my best friend.

My shut-up-and-put-on-Harry-Potter, yes-this-is-your-shirt, help-I-have-no-power, crap-I’m-out-of-tampons, kinda best friend.

And that’s all he can be, right?

Right.

(Being Brooke is a standalone romantic comedy. Hilarious, super-sexy, and possibly highly inappropriate at times, this is the perfect feel-good read!)


More info on Goodreads......


Review: 

Being Brooke is the delightful first novel in Emma Hart's Barley Cross series and is a fun, flirty and at times laugh-out-loud hilarious romantic comedy that fans of Christina Lauren and Alice Clayton are sure to just adore.

Brooke Barker is twenty four and an absolute disaster. She's recently dropped out of collage, working at a dead-end job, is clumsy, hapless and living alone for the first time in her life when she can't even successfully boil water. Oh, and she's hopelessly in love with her best friend Cain who has a girlfriend from hell and who doesn't seem to return her feelings. Loving Cain for years hasn't gotten her anything but heartbreak, yet with Brooke unable to turn off her feelings, will she finally build up the courage to tell Cain how she feels? Or will he remain stuck in his toxic relationship forever?

Being Brooke was my first novel by Emma Hart and I have to say I was impressed. The story was fun and engaging (though not overly original) and the characters were very personable. This novel was light and carefree while also managing to be romantic and full of chemistry without being too heavy.

Main character Brooke was an absolute mess of an individual; something she herself acknowledges numerous times throughout the story, and although I'm hesitant to believe there's someone out there who could really be this hopeless, she's oddly endearing in her hapless kind of way. Brooke is geeky and down to earth; quite happy to lounge around in old sweatpants, eating pizza and watching Harry Potter rather than going out to parties and socializing. Basically my sister-from-another-mister.

I liked the other characters we met including Brooke's best friend Carly and Cain's brother Zeke who I know feature in the second novel. Cain seemed like the perfect boy-next-door, best-friend-turned-boyfriend and I loved both his and Brooke's eccentric families including Brooke's sex obsessed grandfather! Very entertaining.

Fun and very relaxing reading, Being Brooke was a great introduction to author Emma Hart who I'll definitely be on the look out to read more of in the near future, starting with book number two in this series, Catching Carly!

Rating:
Source: Purchased by me from Amazon
Publisher: Published by author
Format: Kindle ebook
Release Date: December 13th 2016
Purchase: Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Kobo
Final Thoughts: Being Brooke was a really fun and easy read; I'm looking forward to reading more from Emma Hart in the future!


Wednesday, January 24, 2018

Waiting on Wednesday #210

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.....
 
The Dragon's Curse by Bethany Wiggins 
Releases on: February 6th 2018
Six months ago, Princess Sorrowlynn stood beside Prince Golmarr to defeat the glass dragon. But when the prince almost killed her after inheriting the dragon's curse of hatred, he went into hiding to keep Sorrow safe . . . from himself.

Now the princess has been training to become a great warrior, with the hope of finding Golmarr. But her search proves difficult when she discovers she has been wed to the prince of an enemy kingdom. Desperate to end her forced marriage and be reunited with her true love, Sorrow must find a way to escape her captor husband. But there's just one more dangerous obstacle in her way. A two-headed dragon is hunting her and will stop at nothing until she is dead.

Can Sorrow summon the courage to wield the only sword that can defeat the beast and save her world from the destruction of the dragon's curse.

Thoughts:
The Dragon's Price was another favorite of mine of 2017 and I am beyond excited for The Dragon's Curse--I already have a copy on pre-order from The Book Depository! This novel was The Princess Bride meets a great dragon tale and I LOVED it as I have all the books I have read by Bethany Wiggins. Can't wait for this one!

Are you a dragon fan? If yes I highly recommend this trilogy!


Tuesday, January 23, 2018

Book Shelf: Before the Devil Breaks You (The Diviners #3) by Libba Bray

After battling a sleeping sickness, The Diviners are up against a group of new and malevolent foes--ghosts! Out in Randall's and Ward's Islands sits two mental hospitals full of lost souls from people long forgotten. Ghosts who have unusual and dangerous ties to the Man in the Stovetop Hat also known as the King of Crows.

With terrible accounts of murder and possession flooding in from all over New York City, the Diviners must band together and brave the asylums to bring down the King of Crows.


More info on Goodreads......

Review:

Before the Devil Breaks You in the third novel in Libba Bray’s tantalising Diviners series and is another deeply beguiling story of powerful abilities, intricately woven secrets and impressive story developments.

After defeating the ghosts that were causing many people to succumb to sleeping sickness, the Diviners are fast at work learning to harness their powers and investigating the mysterious man who has been appearing in their dreams and visions, known as the King of Crows. As a rash of ghost sightings occur, the Diviners must band together to discover what is effecting the spirits in their area but with forces conspiring against them, the Diviners are about to discover that there’s even more danger coming their way than they ever anticipated.

Libba Bray is back with another intricately woven instalment in her Diviners series, bringing to life a vividly magical and dangerous 1920’s America complete with shining stars, political intrigue and dangerous organisations hell bent on taking out our beloved. Full of personality and flair, the setting within this series is lush and animated, the novel unfolding in third person and sweeping us from character to character to allow for a very well told, well explored variation of the story.

Diviners Evie, Sam, Henry, Lin, Memphis, Theta and Isaiah, along with their friends Mabel and Jericho continue to be wonderful characters to follow. Bray continues to weave their lives and friendships together, strengthening their various bonds and connections. There are a few different romances woven together, both amongst the group and with other characters who have been introduced throughout the series. Personally I’m a romantic at heart and love seeing it in this series (although I’m not a fan of love triangles) but what I adore most about the Diviners is actually the friendships we see and the sweet, endearing moments of comradery and connection between the characters—it’s a beautiful kind of love to witness.

Before the Devil Breaks You is an emotional and eventful novel with not all our beloved characters coming through unscathed. There are losses and heartbreak with some of those we love irrevocably altered by the events of this instalment. There will be twists you won't see coming and revelations that finally tie things together.

Libba Bray evidently puts a lot of thought and effort into the various developments and with everything beginning to come together, I for one cannot wait until the fourth and final novel is released to see what kind of thrilling ending Bray has for us—I’m sure it’ll be explosive!

Rating:  
Source: Sent for review by publisher (Thank you guys!)
Publisher: Allen & Unwin
Format: Paperback
Australian RRP: $24.99
Release Date: September 27th 2017
Purchase: Bookworld | Booktopia | The Book Depository | Amazon
Final Thoughts: Another brilliant and addictive read; I cannot wait until I can get my hands on the next one!



 

Saturday, January 20, 2018

Free Ebooks

Hello booklovers and happy Saturday! I have a great bunch of Amazon freebies to share with you today. Check them out!


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


Friday, January 19, 2018

Book Shelf: Allegiance of Honor (Psy-Changeling #15) by Nalini Singh

A staggering transformation has put the Psy, humans, and changelings at a crossroads. The Trinity Accord promises a new era of cooperation between disparate races and groups. It is a beacon of hope held together by many hands: old enemies, new allies, wary loners. 

But a century of distrust and suspicion can't be so easily forgotten, and it threatens to shatter Trinity from within at any moment. As rival members vie for dominance, chaos and evil gather in the shadows and a kidnapped woman's cry for help washes up in San Francisco, while the Consortium turns its murderous gaze toward a child who is the embodiment of change, of love, of piercing hope: a child who is both Psy and changeling. 


To find the lost and protect the vulnerable and to save Trinity no one can stand alone. This is a time of loyalty across divisions, of bonds woven into the heart and the soul, of heroes known and unknown standing back to back and holding the line. But is an allegiance of honor even possible with traitors lurking in their midst?


More info on Goodreads......


Review:

Allegiance of Honor is the fifteenth novel in the Psy-Changeling series and brings all our beloved characters together again in what is the beginning of a new story arc in the series and the start of many more possibilities.

After a bloody and dangerous battle between the remaining Psy council and those who dare to stand against them, Silence has fallen and in it's place is The Trinity Accord. Psy, Changing and Human have all come together in unity. It marks a new era of unity between the various groups that are determined to bring a about a new future for their people. However there are those who still oppose the fragile new connection and as radical groups rise up to tear it apart, those who are part of The Trinity Accord will have to be smarter than ever to ensure the ones they love are protected.

I have to admit it's amazing to see after fifteen novels how far the series has come. From Lucas and Sascha who were the very first to bridge the gap between races, Nalini Singh has continued to build her world and interwoven DarkRiver, ShadowDancer, Psy, Forgotten, Arrow, Human and all the various smaller groups and individuals so beautifully.

Psy-Changeling is without a doubt one of my favorite PNR series and I adore witnessing all the powerful bonds of family and friendship that give it life with every installment. Unlike all the previous installments, Allegiance of Honor doesn't focus around a new pairing, but rather allows us to revisit many of the previous beloved characters while highlighting how closely bonded they have become over the course of the series.

With Mercy and Riley about to have their pubcubs any day, the leopards and wolves are closer than ever as they prepare for the moment their two packs join like never before. The BlackSea pack proves an intriguing group as these water changelings play a larger role in the storyline than they previously have while Human Alliance leader Bowen Knight features in a few chapters too--setting up the beginning of his soon to come story.

Singh writes some beautiful, heartfelt moments between various pack mates and associates that will keep her readers very happy while also leaving them very excited the journey on with the next chapter in this thrilling series.

Rating: 
Source: I purchased from The Book Depository
Publisher: Berkley Books
Format: Paperback
Release Date: December 26th 2016
Purchase: Bookworld | Booktopia | The Book Depository | Amazon
Final Thoughts: I loved being able to revisit the previous characters I have loved and followed in the past; now I'm ready for brand new pairings and romances!


Wednesday, January 17, 2018

Waiting on Wednesday #209

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.....
 
The Traitor's Game by Jennifer A. Nielsen 
Releases: February 27th 2018
Nothing is as it seems in the kingdom of Antora. Kestra Dallisor has spent three years in exile in the Lava Fields, but that won't stop her from being drawn back into her father's palace politics. He's the right hand man of the cruel king, Lord Endrick, which makes Kestra a valuable bargaining chip. A group of rebels knows this all too well -- and they snatch Kestra from her carriage as she reluctantly travels home.The kidnappers want her to retrieve the lost Olden Blade, the only object that can destroy the immortal king, but Kestra is not the obedient captive they expected. Simon, one of her kidnappers, will have his hands full as Kestra tries to foil their plot, by force, cunning, or any means necessary. As motives shift and secrets emerge, both will have to decide what -- and who -- it is they're fighting for.

Thoughts:
The Traitor's Game reminds makes me think of a blend of Truthwitch, Ruined and The Winner's Curse which is not necessarily a bad thing seeing as I absolutely love all three series! YA fantasy is without a doubt one of my fave genres so I'm always on the lookout for great additions to the genre. I definitely love the sound of The Traitor's Game and will be keeping my eye out for it. 

Do you like the sound of the Traitor's Game?
What are you waiting on this week? I'd love to hear! 

Tuesday, January 16, 2018

Book Shelf: The Rogue Queen (The Hundredth Queen #3) by Emily R. King

Despite the odds, Kalinda has survived it all: Marriage to a tyrant. Tournaments to the death. The forbidden power to rule fire. The icy touch of a demon.

That same demon now disguises itself as Rajah Tarek, Kalinda’s late husband and a man who has never stopped haunting her. Upon taking control of the palace and the army, the demon brands Kalinda and her companions as traitors to the empire. They flee across the sea, seeking haven in the Southern Isles.

In Lestari, Kalinda’s powers are not condemned, as they are in her land. Now free to use them to protect those she loves, Kalinda soon realizes that the demon has tainted her with a cold poison, rendering her fire uncontrollable. But the lack of control may be just what she needs to send the demon back to the darkest depths of the Void.

To take back the empire, Kalinda will ally with those she distrusts—and risk losing those most loyal to her—to defeat the demon and bring peace to a divided nation.


More info on Goodreads.... 


Review: 

The Rogue Queen is the third instalment in The Hundredth Queen series by Emily R. King and continues on where the previous novel left off with another thrilling adventure that will have readers eagerly reading until the final page.

After the disastrous events of the previous novel, a demon wears the face of Rajah Tarek and has taken control of the army and the Empire in his bid to bring darkness to the world. The Tarachand people follow him believing their rajah has risen from the dead, but Kalinda and those closest to her know the truth despite being branded traitors to the empire. Fleeing across the seas and desert, they desperately search for a way for Prince Ashwin to reclaim the throne and his birthright, but with the demon growing stronger with every passing day and Kalinda’s tie to him growing more concerning, Kali will need to brave her toughest fight yet if she wishes to save her people.

The Hundredth Queen is a genuinely enjoyable series to read. Each instalment has been solidly written and perfectly paced with both the characters and the storyline developing well over time. The Rogue Queen marks the third novel and is as good as its predecessors. Full of excitement, danger and thrilling action, The Rogue Queen had plenty of adventure, romance and moments of friendship to keep me entertained.

I honestly care about Kali and all the other characters in the series. Deven, Natesa, Yatin, Ashwin, Brac—they’ve all won me over throughout the course of the series so far and I feel they bring a great balance to the tale. While the story is full of magic and action, it’s also driven by the friendships, romances and comraderies that give it life. So far I’ve enjoyed seeing all the characters interact during all three books and predict this won’t change in the next novel.

The Rogue Queen is a very action packed story with plenty of moments to entrance its reader. Lives are on the line in this instalment and not everyone will make it out alive with Emily R. King bringing some surprises to the story. There’s definitely some emotion with unexpected losses but also beautiful moments of triumph.

Featuring a killer ending (pun totally included!) I’m very much looking forward to the next novel whenever it releases and will be keeping my eyes out to read it as soon as possible!

Rating:
Source: Sent for review by publisher via Netgalley (Thank you guys!)
Publisher: Skyscape
Format: Kindle book via Netgalley
Release Date: February 13th 2018
Purchase: Bookworld | Booktopia | The Book Depository | Amazon  Barnes & Noble
Final Thoughts: I'm really enjoying this series and can't wait until Emily R. King releases the next installment!


Monday, January 15, 2018

Owl Post #199


Inspired by The Story Siren's In My Mailbox, Owl Post allows us bloggers to showcase the books we've bought, won or received throughout the week and is hosted by Brodie over at Eleusinian Mysteries. We all know that the Owl Post is the fastest way to send and receive mail and they certainly make me happy every time they drop a book off.
 
Hello book lovers and welcome to another Owl Post! I only have one book to share with you this week, but it's a goodie. 
 
I Bought:
 - The Last Namsara by Kristen Ciccarelli 
I'm dying to read this book--it just sounds so fabulous--and this hardback copy of bought myself is just stunning. Definitely one of my favourite covers I've seen for a while! 

And that's my one beauty this week!
What did the owls bring you?


Thursday, January 11, 2018

Book Shelf: Stargazing For Beginners by Jenny McLachlan

Science geek Meg is left to look after her little sister for ten days after her free-spirited mum leaves suddenly to follow up yet another of her Big Important Causes. But while Meg may understand how the universe was formed, baby Elsa is a complete mystery to her.

And Mum’s disappearance has come at the worst time: Meg is desperate to win a competition to get the chance to visit NASA headquarters, but to do this she has to beat close rival Ed. Can Meg pull off this double life of caring for Elsa and following her own dreams? She’ll need a miracle of cosmic proportions.....


More info on Goodreads.....


Review: 

Stargazing For Beginners is a sweet and adorable novel from Jenny McLachlan about friendship, family and discovering who you are.

Fifteen year old Megara Clark is a science geek who knows more about stars and physics than she ever thinks she could about her free spirited mother and her little sister. Then Meg’s mother takes off on a spur of the moment trip overseas and Meg is left to look after her baby sister Elsa until her mum returns. Desperate to win a competition that sees one lucky participant sent to NASA headquarters, stage shy Meg must manage to keep Elsa fed and clothed while also trying to beat her biggest competition, high school all-rounder and follow intellect Ed King. Elsa is a mystery, her hapless Grandfather is more hindrance than help and now one of her teachers wants her do join a social club with a group of socially inept individuals. Meg is in over her head, but as she slowly begins to find her rhythm, will Meg discover happiness can be found not just in space but on planet Earth too?

Stargazing For Beginners isn’t my first novel by Jenny McLachlan, having read her Ladybirds series in the past, but I definitely feel this was potentially her best book yet. Fun and sweet but with a real message Stargazing For Beginners features a rambunctious cast of characters and an endearing storyline that tells a sweet story of family and the bond between two sisters that develops when all they have is each other.

The protagonist in this story is very likable and sweet character. At the end of the day, Meg is a fifteen year old girl so her voice within the novel can come across as young at times, but she’s also very capable and highly intelligent. Her awkwardness and dorky nature endear her to the reader as Meg stumbles throughout life and slowly gains her bearings; making friends and self-discoveries along the way.

Jenny McLachlan has created another fun and very endearing novel with Stargazing For Beginners. Meg and her sister Elsa develop a really adorable relationship and I liked that McLachlan includes the perfect moments of friendship and romance into the story.

I’m excited about the prospect of Annie featuring in a companion novel and will definitely be keeping an eye out for that novel as soon as it’s released!

Rating:
Source: Sent for review by publisher (Thank you guys!)
Publisher: Bloomsbury
Format: Paperback ARC
Australian RRP: $14.99
Release Date: May 1st 2017
Purchase: Bookworld | Booktopia | The Book Depository | Amazon
Final Thoughts: This is another light and sweet read from Jenny McLachlan and I can't wait to read the companion novel featuring Annie!


Wednesday, January 10, 2018

Waiting on Wednesday #208

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.....
 
Defy the Worlds by Claudia Gray 
Releases: April 3rd 2018

Noemi Vidal has returned to her planet, Genesis, as an outsider. Ostracized for refusing to sacrifice Abel, the galaxy's most advanced mechanical man, she dreams of traveling through the stars one more time. And when a deadly plague arrives on Genesis, Noemi gets her chance. As the only soldier to have ever left the planet, it will be up to her to save its people...if only she wasn't flying right into a trap.

Abel, now fully aware of his soul and captaining his own ship, never thought he'd get to see Noemi again, not when the entire universe stands between them. But when his creator, Burton Mansfield, delivers news of Noemi's capture, Abel must go to her, no matter the cost.

In a race against time, Abel and Noemi band together to stop Mansfield once and for all. The depraved scientist has engineered a way to achieve immortality, but that technology comes with perils of its own. Abel and Noemi are about to discover a secret that could save Genesis and Earth...or destroy them all.


Thoughts:
The predecessor to this novel, Defy the Stars was one of my absolutely favourite books of 2017 and I'm SOOOOOOOO excited to read this sequel! The ending of Defy the Stars actually had me scared for a while as I wasn't sure if it was a standalone or not and I just couldn't handle Noemi and Abel's story ending as it did. Can't wait to see what Claudia Gray does with book #2---just know it's going to be epic!

Have you read the first book Defy the Stars?
And what are YOU waiting on this week?