Beyond Belief ~ Jenna Miscavige Hill

I consider myself fortunate.

I grew up in a loving home with both of my parents, my sister, multiple pets, vacations, friends....After 34 years my parents are still married and are in love (as much as the thought of them all kissy kissy makes me gag)

Not everyone is that lucky.

One thing that played a huge role in my upbringing was religion and spirituality. A Pastors daughter (yeah yeah, go ahead, crack the jokes) I grew up reading the Bible, attending Sunday School, church functions etc… It wasn’t until I was a bit older I realized that this wasn’t the case for everyone. At times I envied my friends who got to sleep in on Sundays. (Hell, even now I envy anyone who gets to sleep in....)

While I don’t necessarily attend church on a regular basis anymore, I still very much am firm in my beliefs and try to teach my children what I was taught.
That said, I do have a vast interest in other religions. I am fascinated by them. I have great respect for what other people believe. I would never try to sway you or argue with you that I am right and you are wrong.  (Unless you show up on my doorstep...) I love inquiring and learning about so many different faiths and traditions.
I'm not going to lie, I even ask questions about my own religion. Why? Because I think it's better to ASK the questions than assume that I (or anyone else) has all the answers. (I'll deal with that when it's my turn to go meet the Big Guy in the Sky) I try to remain very open minded and live life the way I feel is best.
 I have faith.

All that said, there IS an exception to the rule.....
(Here comes the possible hypocritical part to my post) 

I can't help but be very skeptical, Scientology makes me raise my eyebrows due to how 'new' it is on top of the ‘secretive’ nature behind it. (Things that make you go...hmmmmmm)
Why are all these people (Celebrities included)  flocking to a 'religion' created by some author just last century? (L.Ron Hubbard is his name and the book that started it all is called "Dianetics" )

You must be familiar with it with all the drama surrounding Tom Cruise and Katie Holmes when it comes to the controversial church, or be able to name the popular celebrities who are involved. The media is constantly painting Scientology in a negative light.

Needless to say, I wanted to know what the appeal of this particular faith is. 

Like, What's the deal with 'auditing' each other (aka. a tin can-like lie detector test)? What are these 'levels'? (That can allegedly kill you if you unlock them too soon, so they are apparently super secret) Why is it that as a Thetan have you not already unlocked the secret to this faith in a past life and not remember it in THIS life..? (So, do you have to redo all the levels in every life?)

With it being so mysterious and 'exclusive', I was absolutely ecstatic to see a book by a former Scientologist hit the shelves in an explosive "Tell All"!! The author is the niece of the current leader of Scientology to boot! Hey, if this chick is running out and writing a tell all about this 'hush hush' religion, well than you can bet your ass I am going to read it!

And what is the name of the book making waves recently??? If you haven't heard about, get comfortable.

Here is the book description from Amazon.com:

From its science fiction origins to its stranger-than-fiction reality, much is speculated but even more remains unknown about one of the world’s most controversial religions: Scientology. Now, for the first time, an insider with unprecedented access tells the story of her childhood as a member of the Church of Scientology and her harrowing escape.

In this memoir, Jenna Miscavige Hill-the niece of David Miscavige, the leader of the Church of Scientology-pulls back the curtain of this secretive organization. She tells the incredible story of a childhood too strange to be believed and exposes the inner workings of Scientology’s celebrity culture through her own knowledge as well as her husband’s experience as a former employee of the Scientology Celebrity Centre.

Aspects of the organization that have baffled and alienated the public are fully brought to light in this real-life work of suspense. Hill addresses questions that have been raised about Scientology in the past, such as claims of forced and child labor practices, exploitative fundraising, coerced abortions, and the dissolution of families. But, with her unparalleled insight into the inner world of Scientology’s highest order, what Hill reveals is much, much more-and bizarre beyond one’s wildest imagination.

My Take:

Without giving too many spoilers (because really you need to read it to believe it) Jenna Miscavige (Hill) was sent away  as a small child to live at The Ranch (a boarding school exclusive to Scientologists) Unlike me, she didn't get to grow up in home surrounded by loved ones. There were no bed time stories, no mom or grandma baking cookies every week, no elementary school or high school....she was lucky if she got to see her parents once a week.
At the age of seven Jenna had to sign 'a billion year contract' dedicating her life to the religion. Apparently children aren't considered children, because Thetans (their term for their spirits) live forever, taking one body and gaining the next in a form of reincarnation.
Jenna tells her readers how we (the regular ol' non-Scientologist folk) are referred to as 'WOG's' ~an abbreviation that stands for 'Well and Orderly Gentleman' (meh....I've been called worse) and the author claims that the Celebrities are actually kept 'in the dark' and away from the more shocking truths about what really goes on behind the scenes, such as child labor, families forced apart for 'the greater good'.. brainwashing, intimidation....

She goes on to share how she always found herself caught between questioning things and suddenly believing whole heartedly in Scientology.. back and forth....forth and back....like a game of emotional and spiritual tug of war.

The whole book reads like a nasty game of chess. An extreme sociology experiment.
A sad tale of a girl who was robbed of an all American childhood, the allegations brought forth in regards to Scientology are jaw dropping. I could go on and on about the insanity that unfolds throughout her story, but I have to say there is so much you just need to read for yourself.  (FYI any religion telling you to supply your social security or credit card information for their records, as well looking for details on your sex life...as this book alleges.. well... don't walk....RUN to the nearest exit.....can you say red flag much?) It paints a picture of isolation, abuse and greed.

Jenna discusses how she and her husband eventually escaped and left the church, in the footsteps of others and how these former members are trying to get their stories out there. 
I admire Jenna for the tenacity, the bravery and the courage she has shown in speaking out and sharing her story with the world. After reading the book, the final chapters are incredibly moving.

I'd call the book an eyeopener if it wasn't more or less suspicions being confirmed. (My suspicions at least, you read it for yourself and than draw your own conclusions on the topic)

The writing and way the story is told makes it easy to grasp the concepts and dynamics of Scientology and should you find yourself confused, there is a Glossary in the back to assist you. The learning is woven into the story as she describes what is happening.

The Church Of Scientology naturally has denounced Beyond Belief.

If anything, this memoir has me asking MORE questions about Scientology than ever. Questions for both members and ex members of the faith. I am just naturally curious. I would LOVE to sit down and chat with Ms. Hill one day and hear more of her story. (She has now been added to my fantasy dinner party guest list, you're off it Tom Cruise!)

Fascinating, Heartbreaking and Shocking.... You have to read it!

Happy Reading.

ICED ~Karen Marie Moning

 Have you got 'The Fae Fever"? It's time to cure it with 'ICED' (see what I did there.... no? Than you need to read further...)

Are you looking for a book or author with the ability to drown you in a clever fantasy world? A novel or series that gets under your skin so much you dream about it?

Welcome to The Fever World created by Karen Marie Moning.

Words can not begin to describe how much I love The Highlander Series and The Fever Series.  (I have previously blogged about them, just click the links provided) So forgive me if I repeat myself a bit in this blog, but Karen Marie Moning books are ones I get very excited about.....

I can't believe it took me so long to download a copy of her latest book 'ICED' (Shame on me!)

If you have NO idea who Karen Marie Moning is....(Shame on you!) ...than let me tell you a bit about her work.....

I don't even know where to begin, but her novels involve everything from Romance, Time Travel, The Fae, Sex, Sidhe-Seers, Monsters, Action, Suspense...
We are talking the full package. On the edge of your seat ah-mazing stories!!!
(I know you are excited right now)

Even if Fantasy isn't your thing....(Expand your horizons damn it!).. start with her "Highlander" series (Romance lovers will enjoy it!!) and if you like those... than you will WANT to get lost in Fever! (Both series are linked together) 
Seriously, step outside that little 'I only read fluffy romance' box you have created and give one of her books a try. (I am willing to bet you'll thank me for introducing these books to you....)

ICED is Dani O'Malley's story.

Here is the rundown from Amazon.com:

 "The year is 1 AWC—After the Wall Crash. The Fae are free and hunting us. It’s a war zone out there, and no two days are alike. I’m Dani O’Malley, the chaos-filled streets of Dublin are my home, and there’s no place I’d rather be.

Dani “Mega” O’Malley plays by her own set of rules—and in a world overrun by Dark Fae, her biggest rule is: Do what it takes to survive. Possessing rare talents and the all-powerful Sword of Light, Dani is more than equipped for the task. In fact, she’s one of the rare humans who can defend themselves against the Unseelie. But now, amid the pandemonium, her greatest gifts have turned into serious liabilities.

Dani’s ex–best friend, MacKayla Lane, wants her dead, the terrifying Unseelie princes have put a price on her head, and Inspector Jayne, the head of the police force, is after her sword and will stop at nothing to get it. What’s more, people are being mysteriously frozen to death all over the city, encased on the spot in sub-zero, icy tableaux.

When Dublin’s most seductive nightclub gets blanketed in hoarfrost, Dani finds herself at the mercy of Ryodan, the club’s ruthless, immortal owner. He needs her quick wit and exceptional skill to figure out what’s freezing Fae and humans dead in their tracks—and Ryodan will do anything to ensure her compliance.

Dodging bullets, fangs, and fists, Dani must strike treacherous bargains and make desperate alliances to save her beloved Dublin—before everything and everyone in it gets iced."

My Take:

A MOST EXCELLENT BOOK!!!!

It had a bit of a pricy tag on it (my Kobo download was around $16!!) but WELL worth it, especially if you are into The Fever Series or are looking for a series to knock your socks off.

The one thing about the Dani O'Malley Trilogy that I do recommend is you MUST read the original Fever Series (MacKayla Lane's story) first. If you don't, I imagine you are setting yourself up for a 'What The Fuck?' moment, trying to figure out what exactly is going on. Her stories are very complex and detailed and you need to start from square one.

We learn a lot about Dani in this novel. We gain some insight into her past, how tragically she was raised and how she came to live with the Sidh-seers. 
Throughout the story we do catch glimpses of Mac and Jerricho, and it is part of the story line how Dani misses and avoids them.
She also seems to have quite the crush on Ryodan, even if she doesn't realize it.
One of the more twisted aspects of the storyline are how many men are waiting for her to grow up. They all want to keep her safe and it really adds a fascinating aspect to the story. (It has a bit of a creepy factor to it, especially where the Unseelie Prince is concerned, but set's it up for an interesting triangle when Dani is 'older')
It will be interesting to see where the next two books in the series take us. I am sure KMM will age Dani as the series continue so we can see who she eventually ends up with, if she ends up with anyone at all.

Like all books I am obsessed with, I couldn't put it down. I couldn't finish it before bedtime though, which meant I had some insane dreams that night. I was in Dublin fighting alongside Dani and Ryodan. (Crazy!) When's the last time a book has actually influenced your dreams? That is a rare occurrence with me, but I'll take it!
I picked the book back up the next morning at breakfast and devoured it. (It turned into a PJ's until noon-kinda day!)
Due to the surprising cliff-hanger, I am going to go insane until Book Two in the trilogy is released and I won't slack so much on grabbing a copy this time.
Rumor has it that "Burned" may not be available until 2014..... I am trying to keep up to date on my KMM news and will let my readers know once I find out.

I have said it once, twice and I will keep saying it again....and again......

Read anything that Karen Marie Moning has written.  

 End of story!

Happy Reading! :)


**Possible Small Spoiler Alert for those who haven't read MacKayla's ENTIRE Story:

(Everyone else don't past this part if you don't want a major series spoiler)

Don't say I didn't warn you.....

I had to add this for those who are just as obsessed with these books and as I am.
Probably the only trouble I had with Dani's story is knowing the role she played in betraying Mac.
It's hard to 'like' her as much as you liked MacKayla knowing that she was capable of such deceit.
I discussed this with a friend who felt the same way, so it's not just me.
That lil fact doesn't make me love the book any less though, After all, it's more Fae-Fun!

I've got a S.E.C.R.E.T.....

Okay... I really don't have a secret.

At least I don't think I do...... 

(Let's see if I can remember one by than end of this post) 
I'm pretty much an open book. (I've posted pictures of my fuzzy handcuffs on a previous blog, so the admission I don't have a secret shouldn't shock you)
I'm pretty bad with secrets in the sense I completely forget what anyone tells me. Do you know how awkward it is when a friend tells you something, than six months later they bring it up to discuss and you are like "WHAT??? Why didn't you tell me!!!!" and they reply "I DID tell you" and I'm like "Oh NO you didn't" ....so than they fill me in on the conversation and I am like "Oh yeah.....now I remember" (But half the time I really don't....There it is! MY secret!!)

My memory gets worse with age. (And lack of sleep)

However, I am pretty sure if a friend of mine told me she joined a 'Secret Sex Society'.... I'd remember that doozy!!! (All the while bugging for details....Some people need to live vicariously you know)

I finally picked up a copy of S.E.C.R.E.T by L.Marie Adeline on the weekend, read it in less than 24hours.
 (One cool thing for us Canadian chicks......the author is from Canada eh?)

If you haven't heard what all the fuss is about, than let me fill you in.

S.E.C.R.E.T is about a woman named Cassie, in her thirties, widowed and living a dull life as an insecure waitress. She's watching life pass her by, thinking she is past her prime and has no hope for love or anything. She's all but given up on dating and her appearance. A large part of her insecurities stem from a husband who had verbally, emotionally and physically abused her. She feels worthless. She has not led a sexy life, very virginal and 'boring' by today's standards.
She starts noticing and envying a woman who frequents the cafe she works at. This woman accidentally leaves a notebook behind, a diary of sorts, which Cassie can't help but sneak a peek at.
Just a few explicitly detailed paragraphs are enough to make her blush.

Enter what is to become her dirty little S.E.C.R.E.T.
A society where you get to act out your sexual fantasies as a way of healing and self discovery. It's essentially a hands on approach to therapy.
No Judgements. No Limits. No Shame.
With the help of S.E.C.R.E.T Cassie learns to be empowered by her sexuality, gaining confidence over the year as she completes her steps and gains a charm for her special bracelet.

What did I think?

I'm not going to lie. I have heard so many people making such a big deal about this novel I was expecting something 'new' and spectacular that would blow my mind. I was a bit disappointed that it didn't meet my expectations at all. The hype was overrated. It wasn't as dirty or complicated a storyline as say Fifty Shades or the Crossfire series.

Now, I am NOT saying I didn't enjoy it. I actually DO think it was an entertaining read, a nice simple story to pass the time. (Truth be told I would probably classify this as more a beach or bubble bath read) If you like sexy 'Mommy Porn' books than by all means do pick up a copy. (Treat Yourself!)
For me, it was very 'skim the surface' and a bit predictable. I found it was tame compared to other books in the genre, and that is not necessarily a bad thing. Especially if the thought of sexy books scares you or makes you uncomfortable. I found myself constantly comparing S.E.C.R.E.T to the likes of Kathryn Harvey's 'Butterfly', but that particular novel had more twists, turns, storyline etc...
S.E.C.R.E.T to me was a 'safer' version. (Is it stereotypical that the Canadian author has the more 'polite' sexy novel?)

I have to admit the way it ends peeved me off a bit. It took me by surprise how abrupt it was and left me wanting more.... but in a different way than most books.
Let me explain:
Recently Blackbrooke by Emily Silver left me screaming "Nooooooo don't leave me hanging!!!" I can't wait to read the next installment of that series and am practically jumping up and down salivating for it.....
S.E.C.R.E.T on the other hand left me thinking "Gah, how dare you just slam the breaks on the story!!WTF!"... but I do have the patience to wait for any sequel in the works and wont rush out to get it....Eventually I will get around to it when the mood strikes. (Get my drift?)

I guess we are just going to have to wait and see how the next novel plays out..... if it is a continuation of Cassie's story or perhaps a new recruit into S.E.C.R.E.T with a whole new batch of fantasies played out.....

Happy Reading!


For more information visit the author website at www.secretnovels.com

Blackbrooke Book 1 ~ by Emma Silver

"DROP WHAT YOU ARE READING because 'Holy Crap On a Cracker' have I got a book for you!!!!"

                                     Blackbrooke by Emma Silver!

How did I stumble upon this gem? I saw a request for reviewers needed on Twitter (Gimme a follow and say Hello! @ReenieDiva)  over a month ago, liked the concept and I thought I would give it a go!
Thanks to my 'whiny woman' cold, I have had lots of time to read this week!!

My full review is below... but I am SO excited about this trilogy I have to scream again!

"OMG!!! Move the hell over Twilight.....Sit down Anne Rice....Young Adult and Horror has been taken over!! Blackbrooke in da' HOUSE!!!!"
*booty shake annnnnd booty shake* (I am excited, Can't you tell??)

 Here is the book description from Amazon.com:

 “I live in Blackbrooke and you would have had to be living under a rock to never have heard of it before now. This town is different to most others…Humans aren’t the only residents…”

The residents of Blackbrooke share their town with the Creatures, or Crits as they are known. Grotesque, roaming the streets at night looking for food, their presence means humans have to live by the Rules, keeping them indoors and forbidding them of basic desires.

The most important Rule?

Don’t be a ‘walk out’!

Straight-A student, Liberty Connor, hates the Crits and the endless Rules she and her tight knit group of friends have to live by.

Planning her new life on the Outside with her boyfriend, Gabriel, Liberty whiles away her days waiting to turn 18, so they can leave and be free. That is, until the world she thinks she knows begins to unravel…

Her friends start to walk out. So she’s told. However, something’s not right. Things don’t add up.

Liberty faces a race against time to discover what’s going on with the Creatures of Blackbrooke.

Is it them she has to fear, or something much closer to home?

My Take:

Seriously. Page One. 'The Rules' They will have you hooked wanting to know more!
Thoughts I had: Why are these rules so important to living in this town? Why can't you return if you leave? What's going to happen damnit?!!!

The 411 on Blackbrooke: It's a town nestled in the woods somewhere in England. (Kinda like 'The Village' by M.Night Shyamalan, but tourists come into this place!) where mythical and deadly creatures have a 'deal' with the town. You MUST follow the rules or face certain death.
There is layer upon layer of conspiracy and mystery surrounding everything. People go missing, blamed on 'Walkouts'.... which is basically suicide by Crits... the name of the frightening creatures. These things are horribly terrifying and deadly.

The story takes place in modern times, but with dated and strange rules ( For Example: You must wear your hair up in a bun at all times) 

I couldn't live there, never mind the creatures, they don't allow hair dye. (Unacceptable!)

 Characters:

Liberty Connor is the main character in the book. A 17 year old girl who's obsessed with obeying 'the rules' as well as having a keen interest in the town's unusual history. She and her boyfriend Gabriel dream of one day leaving to travel the world. One of the rules is though, once you leave Blackbrooke, you are not allowed back in. EVER.
Suddenly her world is torn apart and she starts unraveling a terrifying mystery. Secrets are revealed. She doesn't know who she can trust. It's up to Liberty and her band of misfits to stand up to Mr. Jones (not to mention the Crits) to try to save lives.. including her own.

Cassius Godwin is Liberty's childhood friend. Due to a 'skin condition', he is considered awkward and is constantly picked on. The two friends are thrown back together after tragedy strikes. Together they work to figure out what is going on.

Noah Hartmann, best friend to Lib's boyfriend Gabriel, and boyfriend to Lib's best friend Gemma. Consider them 'friends by default'. He's a bit of an ass, but as we learn his heart is in the right place.

Denzil Rathbone is hilarious. He's a 38 year old shop owner who Liberty works for. He's a man who loves his weed. He takes the kids in to help them when they have no other place to go. His character had me laughing. One of my favorite lines in the novel revolve around him. (Hint: It has to do with Noah's name)

The Crits: Ugly beasts with a structured hierarchy. The Watchers, The Lurkers, The Hunters and The Queens.

The writing is excellent. The author really packs a good'ol written punch. The kind that sends you sailing into Blackbrooke, completely immersing you in the novel. 

I do not want to spoil any part of this book for you, so I am not going to say any more than I have already shared. All you need to know is Book One ends with a cliffhanger and hooooooly hell do I want more. Like, right now. I mean it. Don't keep me waiting Ms. Silver!!!!!
(.... June 7th 2013 is the confirmed release date of Blackbrooke II, The Guardian!)

A little hint of what is to come...Author Emma Silver tells me this!
"The story picks up where we left off and if I were to describe it in one word, it'd be 'relentless'! There are new characters you'll meet as well as the familiar faces..."

This may be a young adult read, but it is most certainly one that even those of us further from 'youth' can read and enjoy.
Just because this novel is listed as a 'Horror' and that is not your preferred genre.... DO NOT let that label scare you off. I'm not going to classify it as  'freezer book' that will scare the $#@! out of you to the point you can't sleep.(I don't scare THAT easily) but it will give you the heebie jeebies... To me, Blackbrooke is an 'I want more' 'On the edge of your seat' mesmerizing creepy adventure that will leave you wanting more. It is just the right amount of horror... and the story is still building! What awaits us in Book II???  
I really can't stress that enough. It's truly a novel that will get under your skin.
Female or Male, you can read this book and enjoy it.

Never mind that I have it on my Kobo, I'm going to grab this one in paperback for my library too. 

Five Freakin' Stars!!
FIVE.
One two three four FIVE.
(I may just throw in a sixth for good measure)

Read it.

For the love of God... just read it.

I'm HOOKED!

Enough said.

Happy Reading!

Blackbrooke for Kindle

Blackbrooke in Paperback

Head Cold & My Comfort Book by Judith McNaught

I'm sick with a head cold.
AhhhhhhCHoooooooooo.

I don't know about any one else, but I act just like a guy with a 'man-cold' when I'm sick. I whine, I bitch, I want my mommy. So sue me.
Never the less, whilst I bitch about how God-Awful I feel, I still have to suck it up and look after the house and kids. (I am woman hear me rrrr...rrrraaahhchoooo) 
I do the 'bare minimum' required of me, making more time for resting on the couch. (Most chores can wait)
I think my kids like it when I am unwell...
( "Here's the remote, have at it!" "Yes we are having frozen pizza for dinner...." "Go ahead, have a chocolate bar, let me sleep" "You want to change your sister's diaper? Great, practice makes perfect.....")

With being 'down and out' I wanted familiar things to comfort me through my sneezy, stuffy, dizzy mess. (I said 'dizzy' not 'ditzy')
I brought out several of my 'beat the cold' cures and treatments:

Pillow CHECK
Blanket CHECK
Comfy Clothes CHECK
Hot Bubble Baths CHECK
Kleenex CHECK
Vapor Rub CHECK
Gatorade CHECK
Comfort Food CHECK
Comfort Book CHECK

Wait? Comfort Book?

What exactly IS a comfort book? You ask...

 Easy... It's a book that you read over and over again. You can have more than one (trust me I have several)  It's a story that you can get lost in and if you are feeling unwell, you don't have to concentrate that hard on the story, because you already KNOW the story. It's like watching your favorite movie.

This particular 'Comfort Book' choice is one for the romantics!

 

A romantic story about a woman who meets a man in the Caribbean. They fall head over heels in love in a matter of days.... only to have circumstances and assumptions ruin their 'magical' romance.
When she ends up pregnant with his baby, she decides not to tell him about the child...... big mistake.

While this book isn't the best book I have ever read by Judith McNaught, it certainly is one of my favorites.
I love how favorite characters from other novels (Matt and Meredith from 'Paradise' and Julie and Zack from 'Perfect') make special appearances. 'Every Breath You Take' is the story of Kate and Mitchell is very 'fast paced' compared to some of her other novels. It gets straight to the point and she didn't drag it out. I am sure the story could be longer, but who needs it? I think the fact that the author doesn't beat around the bush with the romance or any events in it makes it stand out.

If you are a romance lover and you have never read one of Judith McNaught's novels before than you are missing out!!

Here is the book description from Amazon.com

High atop a snow-covered hill, the stately old Wyatt mansion is perched like a crown, its stone spires pointing upward, its stained glass windows glowing like colorful jewels. Such opulence means success and, surely, happiness. But on the eve of wealthy philanthropist Cecil Wyatt’s eightieth birthday, all the money in the world won’t bring back his missing grandson, William Wyatt. The only thing for certain: Foul play was involved.

The family, the police, the media–all have tried in vain to discover the young man’s fate. Now suspicion has turned shockingly toward William’s own half-brother, the rather distant and enigmatic Mitchell Wyatt.

Kate Donovan never dreamed that a chance romantic encounter on a tropical island paradise would tag her as a suspect in a high-society murder case. But after Kate tangles with the darkly charismatic Mitchell Wyatt, she finds herself cast in a shadow of guilt and mistrust. As the Chicago police tighten their net, it will take all of Kate’s ingenuity to clear her name. With her calm, cool wit, and the help of a man who may or may not be a dangerous catch, Kate vows to claim the life and love she desires.
 
 Now that I have done my job to inform you of this book. I must continue with catching up on some housework.
(Seriously, do you know how crappy it is to try to empty the dishwasher with your head spinning?)

Happy Reading!

Selling Out by Amber Lin

                                           "OhMiGOD.....SUUUUUCH A GOOD BOOK!!!!!" 
 

Now let me tell you, I don't give a rat's patootie if you don't typically like or read 'Erotica' because clearly you have never read anything by Amber Lin.Throw all your preconceived notions of the genre out the window and give her Lost Girls series a try. (Just do it!!)
 I've previously reviewed and HIGHLY recommended her book 'Giving It Up' to all the Mommy Porn readers and generally anyone (over the age of 18) looking for a great read.
Let me tell you, the novels are incredible!!! This author is clever story teller who writes passionately, and I don't just mean about the kinky bits! Both novels are emotional, well developed, intricate and clever. When you read a book by Amber Lin, you aren't reading a 'fluffy-kissy kissy-romantic- happily ever after-sex-fest'.... you are reading a hardcore, down to earth, gritty story of intrigue, life lessons with a sexual element.

I feel like Amber Lin has tossed down the gauntlet to other authors and snapped:

  "Here I am bitches!! Beat that!"
 
Love it!
 
 Here is the blurb from Amazon.com:

 Shelly Laurent escapes her life as a high-class escort, but against her better judgment she takes the scared young Ella with her. In retaliation, her pimp and his dirty cops frame them both for murder. On the run, Shelly turns to the one man who could be her salvation: Detective Luke Cameron. She doesn't know if she can trust him or if he's just a mirage, but she needs his help to free them all.

With a heart forged in fire and irreverence born of necessity, Shelly fights Ella's demons--and faces her own. She throws light on the shadows of Chicago's underworld, challenging everything she knew and the man she's come to love. Together, a prostitute and a cop fight for truth stronger than secrets, hope deeper than deception, and a bond more enduring than betrayal.

My Take:

As you read above....'Selling Out' is Shelly's story. A prostitute with a good heart, but a lousy career that she wants out of. She has an 'interesting' friendship with a cop named Luke. She lusts after him from afar but that's about that... (oooor is it?).... they have a complex 'relationship' to say the least.
This character while she is clever, caring and compassionate is also rough around the edges! Sassy and tough as nails. Shelly's scars run deep, but the way she goes out of her way for others is commendable. Whether it is saving young hookers like 'Ella' from following in her footsteps, or looking out for her best friend and the small child Shelly helped raise. She has a heart of gold, sacrificing herself to keep others from hurting. 
Her story is emotional, gripping and sad.

We learn more about Luke's character in this novel. He is a cop with a keen interest in helping save Shelly and any prostitute he can. The two dance around their feelings for one another as they try to bust Henri, the big boss 'Pimp' who has a nasty hold over Shelly and Chicago's Underground.
He's a dangerous man, but that won't stop Shelley from trying to stop him once and for all, no matter what it takes.

If you have read the first novel in the series, than you will be happy to know that we see Allie, Colin and even Philip again!
 The plot in this book is just as complicated and compelling as it was in the previous novel. With all the twists and turns you will not be able to put it down! So, when you read it, clear your schedule!!  Since it is a continuation of the story, I recommend reading Giving it Up before you continue with this novel. (I also recommend you check out my 'Giving It Up' blog)

This is a FIVE star novel in my opinion. So what are you waiting for? Check.It.Out!!


Happy Reading!