Greetings Fellow Book Lovers!
Those who read my book recommendations on a regular basis (or at least when a new post goes up) may have noticed I have been slightly absent again in the past few weeks after re-booting this blog back up.
If you read my previous post on The Winter People, you will know that recently I went through a book drought and I couldn't read. I couldn't focus or finish any book until this past weekend. (Oh my God that sucked!)
In that time I have been focusing on my writing and a new personal blog that focuses on everything from hot topics, to embarrassing stories, my battle with depression etc.... It's a place for me to write and share. I am having fun over there writing what is in my head and heart and being able to get some things 'out' into the open, it's rather freeing. That said, I am in the process of making a decision whether to keep this book blog alive or to incorporate it into my new blog They Once Called Her Pumpkin..... and do a book feature over there once a week.
(Decisions, Decisions)
I am going to wait until the New Year before I make my decision, but I will be certain to let you know when I do.
In the meantime, I will try to get some back logged book recommendations up as well as some new ones.
If you would like to join me at my new blog, I tend to update it several times a week. If you are interested, please click the link above and check it out. You can follow with your blog or even by email! I hope to see you there!
Cheers!
Wednesday, 14 December 2016
Tuesday, 13 December 2016
The Winter People ~ Jennifer McMahon
I have been quiet on here lately for a few reasons.
The biggest reason being that I have been in the most ridiculous book drought I think I have ever experienced in my entire life. My attention span when it comes to reading lately has been nil and the few novels I have attempted haven't kept my attention at all. This has gone on for over a month!! My concentration level has been limited to my writing (which I will tell you about in a separate post) and the odd Netflix series (The Crown! WOW!)
Until this past weekend.
We had a large snow system come through on Sunday so I thought I would download a new book from Kobo that I've heard rave reviews about:
The Winter People by Jennifer McMahon.
If you haven't heard of this novel yet let me introduce you to your next read.
Here is the Official Synopsis:
West Hall, Vermont, has always been a town of strange disappearances and old legends. The most mysterious is that of Sara Harrison Shea, who, in 1908, was found dead in the field behind her house just months after the tragic death of her daughter.
Now, in present day, nineteen-year-old Ruthie lives in Sara’s farmhouse with her mother, Alice, and her younger sister. Alice has always insisted that they live off the grid, a decision that has weighty consequences when Ruthie wakes up one morning to find that Alice has vanished. In her search for clues, she is startled to find a copy of Sara Harrison Shea's diary hidden beneath the floorboards of her mother's bedroom. As Ruthie gets sucked into the historical mystery, she discovers that she’s not the only person looking for someone that they’ve lost. But she may be the only one who can stop history from repeating itself.
My Take: The Winter People was exactly the type of novel I needed to break the dry spell I have been experiencing! This book was a can't put down, extremely creepy and completely fascinating read. It sucked me in so hard and made me so jumpy that when my daughter knocked on a door I almost had a panic attack. I was so disturbed. (It was great!)
We follow many different characters and jump from the Past to Present Day as the pieces of this mysterious puzzle are put together. The writing and the way the story flows is fantastic. There are plenty of twists and turns to keep you guessing. All in all I would give this novel 5/5 stars. I do not want to say much of anything for fear of giving away the plot and all the secrets this book holds. There is a reason some people are calling this one of the best books of 2016.
I ABSOLUTELY recommend this novel to almost everyone. This includes my teenage daughter. I will be buying a copy for our bookshelf and I will certainly let her read it (She loves a good scare!) I can't wait to be able to talk about this novel with others who have read it.
If you fall into the following categories: Mystery Lover, Paranormal Lover, Horror Lover, Historical Fiction Lover..... I implore you check out The Winter People.
I hope you enjoy it as much as I did because let me tell you -This book in some warped way was exactly what the doctor ordered! I have added author Jennifer McMahon to my 'Must Read' author list. I can't wait to see what she has in store for me next!
There is always time to ask Santa for a copy in your stocking! ;)
Now fingers crossed I can find another great read and put the book drought of 2016 behind me!
Happy Reading!
The biggest reason being that I have been in the most ridiculous book drought I think I have ever experienced in my entire life. My attention span when it comes to reading lately has been nil and the few novels I have attempted haven't kept my attention at all. This has gone on for over a month!! My concentration level has been limited to my writing (which I will tell you about in a separate post) and the odd Netflix series (The Crown! WOW!)
Until this past weekend.
We had a large snow system come through on Sunday so I thought I would download a new book from Kobo that I've heard rave reviews about:
The Winter People by Jennifer McMahon.
If you haven't heard of this novel yet let me introduce you to your next read.
Here is the Official Synopsis:
West Hall, Vermont, has always been a town of strange disappearances and old legends. The most mysterious is that of Sara Harrison Shea, who, in 1908, was found dead in the field behind her house just months after the tragic death of her daughter.
Now, in present day, nineteen-year-old Ruthie lives in Sara’s farmhouse with her mother, Alice, and her younger sister. Alice has always insisted that they live off the grid, a decision that has weighty consequences when Ruthie wakes up one morning to find that Alice has vanished. In her search for clues, she is startled to find a copy of Sara Harrison Shea's diary hidden beneath the floorboards of her mother's bedroom. As Ruthie gets sucked into the historical mystery, she discovers that she’s not the only person looking for someone that they’ve lost. But she may be the only one who can stop history from repeating itself.
My Take: The Winter People was exactly the type of novel I needed to break the dry spell I have been experiencing! This book was a can't put down, extremely creepy and completely fascinating read. It sucked me in so hard and made me so jumpy that when my daughter knocked on a door I almost had a panic attack. I was so disturbed. (It was great!)
We follow many different characters and jump from the Past to Present Day as the pieces of this mysterious puzzle are put together. The writing and the way the story flows is fantastic. There are plenty of twists and turns to keep you guessing. All in all I would give this novel 5/5 stars. I do not want to say much of anything for fear of giving away the plot and all the secrets this book holds. There is a reason some people are calling this one of the best books of 2016.
I ABSOLUTELY recommend this novel to almost everyone. This includes my teenage daughter. I will be buying a copy for our bookshelf and I will certainly let her read it (She loves a good scare!) I can't wait to be able to talk about this novel with others who have read it.
If you fall into the following categories: Mystery Lover, Paranormal Lover, Horror Lover, Historical Fiction Lover..... I implore you check out The Winter People.
I hope you enjoy it as much as I did because let me tell you -This book in some warped way was exactly what the doctor ordered! I have added author Jennifer McMahon to my 'Must Read' author list. I can't wait to see what she has in store for me next!
There is always time to ask Santa for a copy in your stocking! ;)
Now fingers crossed I can find another great read and put the book drought of 2016 behind me!
Happy Reading!
Friday, 11 November 2016
Lest We Forget
I know this is a book blog and this is the first time I am really stepping out and not blogging about books here. (Never fear, after this post it will be back to regular scheduled programming)
Today is Remembrance Day, a day we need to step back, reflect and honor those who have sacrificed so much for us.
The post I am about to share, is one I wrote a year ago for family and friends. It showed up in my memories today, and for whatever reason, I felt compelled to share it with you all:
I had a conversation with someone in recent months. A conversation that has resonated with me over the past while. With someone who told me that they do not like Remembrance Day.
Now, before you become outraged at such a thought. I will honestly tell you, that for this person and their personal story (which is not mine to tell, so don't ask) I can certainly understand where they are coming from, and why they can't find it in their heart to want to participate in ceremonies that cause them great upset. I don't agree with them, but I can listen.
That said, a comment was made from this person about how soldiers weren't brave. that war is not something to be remembered or glorified.
This upset me. As you know me, I am highly argumentative and when pushed past a limit, that's that. Gloves off.
I argued that how can you not say a person who sacrifices their life isn't brave? For a soldier to make that choice that could mean the end of their life. Their LIFE. In this day and age, this is a decision which in our country is made willingly and it's certainly not one to be taken lightly. For those men who were once drafted, they may have had fear in their hearts, but they still went and did it anyway. That takes courage. Cowards run. The brave stand tall and actively defend their country and what it represents. Our Canadian soldiers are a large part of why we have a free country and can live life the way we please. They are not monsters. They ARE our heroes. Your freedom is because of them.
To say war isn't to be remembered, it has to be. We have to remember and learn from history so we don't repeat it.
We are not glorifying war by paying our respects. We are honoring memories.
My own grandfather fought in World War 2 and I will tell you right now, he was one of the bravest, loveliest men you will have ever met and I miss him every day. Do not tell me he wasn't brave.
To the person whom I fought hard to show our Canadian side of the story, I can only hope I shed some light on the 'why' we remember and pay our respects and perhaps lightened your heart a bit.
To our soldiers past and present. Thank You for what you have done for us.
Lest We Forget.
Today is Remembrance Day, a day we need to step back, reflect and honor those who have sacrificed so much for us.
The post I am about to share, is one I wrote a year ago for family and friends. It showed up in my memories today, and for whatever reason, I felt compelled to share it with you all:
I had a conversation with someone in recent months. A conversation that has resonated with me over the past while. With someone who told me that they do not like Remembrance Day.
Now, before you become outraged at such a thought. I will honestly tell you, that for this person and their personal story (which is not mine to tell, so don't ask) I can certainly understand where they are coming from, and why they can't find it in their heart to want to participate in ceremonies that cause them great upset. I don't agree with them, but I can listen.
That said, a comment was made from this person about how soldiers weren't brave. that war is not something to be remembered or glorified.
This upset me. As you know me, I am highly argumentative and when pushed past a limit, that's that. Gloves off.
I argued that how can you not say a person who sacrifices their life isn't brave? For a soldier to make that choice that could mean the end of their life. Their LIFE. In this day and age, this is a decision which in our country is made willingly and it's certainly not one to be taken lightly. For those men who were once drafted, they may have had fear in their hearts, but they still went and did it anyway. That takes courage. Cowards run. The brave stand tall and actively defend their country and what it represents. Our Canadian soldiers are a large part of why we have a free country and can live life the way we please. They are not monsters. They ARE our heroes. Your freedom is because of them.
To say war isn't to be remembered, it has to be. We have to remember and learn from history so we don't repeat it.
We are not glorifying war by paying our respects. We are honoring memories.
My own grandfather fought in World War 2 and I will tell you right now, he was one of the bravest, loveliest men you will have ever met and I miss him every day. Do not tell me he wasn't brave.
To the person whom I fought hard to show our Canadian side of the story, I can only hope I shed some light on the 'why' we remember and pay our respects and perhaps lightened your heart a bit.
To our soldiers past and present. Thank You for what you have done for us.
Lest We Forget.
Sunday, 6 November 2016
The Girl Who Stayed ~ Tanya Anne Crosby
If you are like me, then you have reading moods that shift from day to day or even week by week.
(Oh, did I say 'reading moods' ...I meant moods in general...if you see me wearing my "I'm Grumpy 'Cause You're Dopey' Shirt" while listening to the Dangerous Minds soundtrack.......RUN!!!)
Sometimes I am in the mood for something lighthearted and sweet, other times I want something sexy or historical....maybe I want a great mystery or a horror..... My moods can be all over the map (Just ask my husband or see my Twitter feed!)
This past week I loaded up my Kobo with books to reflect all my moods, most of them on sale (Hooray!) and I decided I would read through them as the mood struck.
The first few books were fluffy romances, I realized I have had my fill of those. (One of them I didn't even bother to finish... ) so I turned to the one which had an intriguing premise. "The Girl Who Stayed" by Tanya Anne Crosby. (Released earlier this year)
I HIGHLY recommend this if you are looking for something more gritty and honest or just prefer a solid drama.
The novel is told in the narrative of protagonist Zoe Rutherford. She's not only running away from her present, but seeking answers from her past. Through her thoughts flashing back, you learn about her life's story as the eldest child in a family who suffers unspeakable tragedy. You see her struggle with her current life situation and how they all connect. Like so many of us, she is a chronic over-thinker, full of what ifs and in need of self discovery. The entire novel is mainly a reflection as she searches her soul and the real world for answers, all the while prepping her old family home for sale.
The Girl Who Stayed was a novel that I didn't want to put down and when I did- I found myself wondering where the story was going next. I liked not being able to figure out the exact plot. What was happening the ex? What happened to her sister Hannah? Was Zoe on a path to self destruction or self discovery? Is her subconscious trying to tell her something?? Who can she trust? I felt really bad for this character. She felt really 'real' to me, it was like reading the unfiltered mind of someone else.
The ending actually left me with a small book hangover for the simple reason that it was a bit abrupt after being in her head all that time. That said, I was both satisfied with the ending but like with most books I enjoy I always want a bit more. (I am selfish like that!)
I give "The Girl Who Stayed" a rating of 4/5 stars. I could see this novel played out dramatically on television, like the Netflix series Bloodline. (If I am going to make a small comparison)
The bottom line, If you are in a book club or like a book that makes you step back and think, or that has a bit of mystery and zero fluff.... Then I suggest that you give this one a try.
This was my first novel that I have read by Author Tanya Anne Crosby, and I certainly will be adding her novels to my 'must read author list' from now on.
Click here to visit her website for more books and information.
Here is the official book synopsis:
Zoe Rutherford wasn't sure what she was
expecting when she returned to Sullivan's Island. The house on
Sullivan's hadn't represented home to her in decades. It was the place
where she endured her father's cruelty. It was the place where her
mother closed herself off from the world. It was the place where her
sister disappeared. But now that her parents are gone, Zoe needs to
return to the house, to close it down and prepare it for sale. She
intends to get this done as quickly as possible and get on with the rest
of her life, even though that life seems clouded by her past, both
distant and recent. But what she discovers when she gets there is far
beyond her imagining and will change her in profound ways.
Happy Reading!
Saturday, 5 November 2016
Mr. President ~ Katy Evans
First off, let me say I really wish that I was creating a video blog
on this novel, that way I could open by treating you all to my
delightful, breathy impression of Marilyn Monroe singing "Happy Birthday
Mr President".... but this is a written blog so you can just picture it
instead. (It's spot on, I promise you)
I spent some time in Washington D.C this past summer, my first visit and I completely fell in love with it! So much so that not only do I want to go back, I am quite convinced I must have lived there in a past life. (Sorry Ottawa, you are a beautiful capital but there is something about D.C.....) We stayed at the The Melrose Hotel on Pennsylvania Avenue (I HIGHLY recommend it!!) and spent a few days walking around Capital Hill, touring the Monuments, Museums and Memorials. It was such a great trip.
I have found since my visit I have been quite obsessed with watching shows and reading novels which take place in that area (Scandal, Designated Survivor....) so yeah.... when I saw Mr. President and that it was written by Katy Evans.... well.... into the Kobo shopping cart it went!
I know most people are probably so sick and tired of politics and elections after having front row seats to the (how do I put this nicely?) 'very interesting' if not 'scandalous' (and looooooooong) Election across the border.....(We're rooting for you America!)
The good news is, the election is finally coming to an end (Thank the merciful heavens!) and even better news.... This is a book blog so we need not discuss it here and focus on fictional events instead!
Now that is out of the way, I shall bring your attention to a new novel with a Presidential Candidate who sounds like an utter (and scrumptious) delight.
All of you who are looking for your next hot read **cue drum roll** look no further for your next series... may I introduce you to Mr. President by Katy Evans. (White House Series Book 1)
Here is the synopsis from the novel:
My Take:
Recently released (October 31, 2016) The story is told in alternating perspectives. That of Charlotte Wells, daughter of a Democratic Senator and Matthew Hamilton, son of a former President and now running himself as an Independent. The two have a small history and she ends up on his campaign. I always enjoy those backstories where they knew each other when......(sigh)
This novel was very focused on the love affair and how Matt and Charlotte felt dealing with the obstacles and reality of their situation.
There wasn't as much drama in this first novel as I typically enjoy. Don't get me wrong, there was a lot of tension and stress with our two leads, I was just waiting for some bonus fireworks compliments of the supporting characters. Given how the story really focused on how the main characters felt, I don't think it was too necessary for this first book to focus on anything but their clandestine relationship on the path to the White House. I really don't want to give out any spoilers, but I will say certain seeds have been planted within their campaign circle, so who knows what the rest of the series has in store for us in terms of dramatic story lines! We'll just have to wait and find out! (And you will just have to read the book and see what the heck I am talking about)
I have a feeling the next novel will bring more complications....(Can't wait!)
The way the author writes the characters and the tender build up to their relationship, kind of makes me wish I was young and dating again (I said 'kind of'' in a wistful wouldn't it be nice not to have stretchmarks- no mortgage- no kids interrupting bathroom time -kind of way.....) so the fact that it made me a bit wistful means it was well done. I really enjoyed the flirty will-it/won't it/what is happening? feeling in the pages. It really had a way of sweeping you into their love story. (Gooooooosebumps!)
Like I said toward the beginning of this post, I most certainly do recommend this novel to my ladies who are looking for their next sexy series. I read through this first novel very quickly. While the topic clearly involves politics, it's not at all political. It's a sweet and seductive fictional romance. (And may I say a welcome reprieve from.... you know......any real world political crapfest..) Since I know I do have some readers that are not into sexy books, this one has a
lot of passionate scenes, so this novel isn't for you if you aren't
comfortable with them.
I am looking forward to the release of 'Commander in Chief' (Book 2) early next year!
So there you have it.
Need a sexy read?
Vote Matt Hamilton as your next book boyfriend!
For more information on Katy Evans and her novels please visit her author website (link here) or give her a follow on Twitter @authorKatyEvans or Facebook !
(And while you're at it... look to the sidebar for my info-follow me as well and say HI!)
Happy Reading!
I spent some time in Washington D.C this past summer, my first visit and I completely fell in love with it! So much so that not only do I want to go back, I am quite convinced I must have lived there in a past life. (Sorry Ottawa, you are a beautiful capital but there is something about D.C.....) We stayed at the The Melrose Hotel on Pennsylvania Avenue (I HIGHLY recommend it!!) and spent a few days walking around Capital Hill, touring the Monuments, Museums and Memorials. It was such a great trip.
I have found since my visit I have been quite obsessed with watching shows and reading novels which take place in that area (Scandal, Designated Survivor....) so yeah.... when I saw Mr. President and that it was written by Katy Evans.... well.... into the Kobo shopping cart it went!
I know most people are probably so sick and tired of politics and elections after having front row seats to the (how do I put this nicely?) 'very interesting' if not 'scandalous' (and looooooooong) Election across the border.....(We're rooting for you America!)
The good news is, the election is finally coming to an end (Thank the merciful heavens!) and even better news.... This is a book blog so we need not discuss it here and focus on fictional events instead!
Now that is out of the way, I shall bring your attention to a new novel with a Presidential Candidate who sounds like an utter (and scrumptious) delight.
All of you who are looking for your next hot read **cue drum roll** look no further for your next series... may I introduce you to Mr. President by Katy Evans. (White House Series Book 1)
Here is the synopsis from the novel:
He's won the hearts of millions. But is he willing to lose his?
I met the president’s son when we were both young. Matthew Hamilton was handsome, polished, and intelligent. I’d never met a guy like him.
He promised me that he’d never run for president. I promised that if he did, I’d be by his side.
Two terms later, an invitation to join Matthew Hamilton’s campaign is the most exhilarating opportunity I’ve ever experienced. I'm determined to make a difference; he is determined to win.
Focused on his goal, Matt is steadfast, ruthless, and disarming. All eyes are on him and his popularity is surging. But soon, the next possible president of the United States is possessing me in more ways than one—and despite the risks, I'm helpless to resist.
We're stealing touches, stealing moments, and stealing away at night. But our chemical connection is quickly becoming dangerously combustive, putting not only my heart, but Matt's chance at the presidency on the line.
Winning will take everything.
Walking away will be the hardest thing of all.
I met the president’s son when we were both young. Matthew Hamilton was handsome, polished, and intelligent. I’d never met a guy like him.
He promised me that he’d never run for president. I promised that if he did, I’d be by his side.
Two terms later, an invitation to join Matthew Hamilton’s campaign is the most exhilarating opportunity I’ve ever experienced. I'm determined to make a difference; he is determined to win.
Focused on his goal, Matt is steadfast, ruthless, and disarming. All eyes are on him and his popularity is surging. But soon, the next possible president of the United States is possessing me in more ways than one—and despite the risks, I'm helpless to resist.
We're stealing touches, stealing moments, and stealing away at night. But our chemical connection is quickly becoming dangerously combustive, putting not only my heart, but Matt's chance at the presidency on the line.
Winning will take everything.
Walking away will be the hardest thing of all.
My Take:
Recently released (October 31, 2016) The story is told in alternating perspectives. That of Charlotte Wells, daughter of a Democratic Senator and Matthew Hamilton, son of a former President and now running himself as an Independent. The two have a small history and she ends up on his campaign. I always enjoy those backstories where they knew each other when......(sigh)
This novel was very focused on the love affair and how Matt and Charlotte felt dealing with the obstacles and reality of their situation.
There wasn't as much drama in this first novel as I typically enjoy. Don't get me wrong, there was a lot of tension and stress with our two leads, I was just waiting for some bonus fireworks compliments of the supporting characters. Given how the story really focused on how the main characters felt, I don't think it was too necessary for this first book to focus on anything but their clandestine relationship on the path to the White House. I really don't want to give out any spoilers, but I will say certain seeds have been planted within their campaign circle, so who knows what the rest of the series has in store for us in terms of dramatic story lines! We'll just have to wait and find out! (And you will just have to read the book and see what the heck I am talking about)
I have a feeling the next novel will bring more complications....(Can't wait!)
The way the author writes the characters and the tender build up to their relationship, kind of makes me wish I was young and dating again (I said 'kind of'' in a wistful wouldn't it be nice not to have stretchmarks- no mortgage- no kids interrupting bathroom time -kind of way.....) so the fact that it made me a bit wistful means it was well done. I really enjoyed the flirty will-it/won't it/what is happening? feeling in the pages. It really had a way of sweeping you into their love story. (Gooooooosebumps!)
Like I said toward the beginning of this post, I most certainly do recommend this novel to my ladies who are looking for their next sexy series. I read through this first novel very quickly. While the topic clearly involves politics, it's not at all political. It's a sweet and seductive fictional romance. (And may I say a welcome reprieve from.... you know......
I am looking forward to the release of 'Commander in Chief' (Book 2) early next year!
So there you have it.
Need a sexy read?
Vote Matt Hamilton as your next book boyfriend!
For more information on Katy Evans and her novels please visit her author website (link here) or give her a follow on Twitter @authorKatyEvans or Facebook !
(And while you're at it... look to the sidebar for my info-follow me as well and say HI!)
Happy Reading!
Monday, 31 October 2016
The Dwelling- Susie Moloney
It's Halloween.
I'm usually more excited about this, but seeing as how I am on a liquid diet today and can't touch the candy or the roasted pumpkin seeds... well... I am a bit of a grump.
Person:"What are you going as for Halloween this year Irene?"
Me: "A colonoscopy patient"
Wherever you are, I hope that your costume is amazing, your candy stash is plentiful and your intestines are in good health.
I sat here wondering which frightening book I could help a lovely author promote today. I have been staring at my bookshelf. The truth is most of my scarier novels, I haven't read them awhile, but there is always that one.... literally the most terrifying book I believe I own....that still taunts me. Taunts me even though it is well hidden......so much so that it again it overpowers all the other books and I am compelled to tell you about it....again.....
I know that I have blogged about this earlier on in my blogging days, but since I am now declaring it 'Throwback Monday' (Screw waiting for Thursday)... I am going to re-share that original post with you in this new, updated version.
If you or your friends are looking for something creepy to read this Halloween.... You need to find a copy of The Dwelling by Susie Moloney which released in 2003! I've had great feedback from people who did read this after the first time I recommended it and they were not disappointed.
Here's the official synopsis:
FOR SALE: Newly renovated single-family home. New hardwood floors, all appliances. Bathroom, 3+ bedrooms, unique decor, must be seen.. . .
362 Belisle Street is a homeowner’s dream. Recently renovated! Victorian detail! Good neighborhood! A steal at $95,900! Real estate agent Glenn Darnley wonders why this charming property keeps coming back on the market. Perhaps the clawed feet of the old bath-tub look a little too real. Or maybe it’s the faint hospital-like smell of the room at the end of the hall. Or the haunting music that seems to come from nowhere.. . .
Three families buy 362 Belisle, but no one stays there for long. For this dream house has a mind and a heart of its own. It’s waiting patiently for its dream owner.
Open the door to a spine-chilling novel of terror in which home is not where you live – it’s where you hope to get out alive.. . .
Now... here's my original blog taken from a few years ago.
I like to think I don’t scare easily.....well....unless (picture this) I’m in a dark basement, watching a scary scene from the movie IT (Stephen King) and my young sister runs down the stairs in a clown costume screaming my name. NOT COOL SHEENA!! I eventually peeled myself off the ceiling, changed my soiled 'delicates' to than find her and yell at her! Fifteen years later and I still haven’t got over it. I don't like clowns!!!But I digress….
At this point, maybe some of you are thinking, 'Oh Irene, I am sure you are exaggerating, it can't be that scary'.
If that thought crossed your mind 'oh brave and skeptical one', you need to find a copy of this book, read it than tell me what you think!
To the rest, that are unsure what to think..I say to you: If you like your Stephen King, if you love your Anne Rice, or are just looking for a good ‘scare’, Than make room in your freezer and read ‘The Dwelling’ by Susie Moloney, at night, right before bed, with only a dim lamp on…..maybe clutching a teddy bear for moral support.....
I hope you can scare up a copy!
Happy Halloween and Happy Reading!
I'm usually more excited about this, but seeing as how I am on a liquid diet today and can't touch the candy or the roasted pumpkin seeds... well... I am a bit of a grump.
Person:"What are you going as for Halloween this year Irene?"
Me: "A colonoscopy patient"
Wherever you are, I hope that your costume is amazing, your candy stash is plentiful and your intestines are in good health.
I sat here wondering which frightening book I could help a lovely author promote today. I have been staring at my bookshelf. The truth is most of my scarier novels, I haven't read them awhile, but there is always that one.... literally the most terrifying book I believe I own....that still taunts me. Taunts me even though it is well hidden......so much so that it again it overpowers all the other books and I am compelled to tell you about it....again.....
I know that I have blogged about this earlier on in my blogging days, but since I am now declaring it 'Throwback Monday' (Screw waiting for Thursday)... I am going to re-share that original post with you in this new, updated version.
If you or your friends are looking for something creepy to read this Halloween.... You need to find a copy of The Dwelling by Susie Moloney which released in 2003! I've had great feedback from people who did read this after the first time I recommended it and they were not disappointed.
Here's the official synopsis:
FOR SALE: Newly renovated single-family home. New hardwood floors, all appliances. Bathroom, 3+ bedrooms, unique decor, must be seen.. . .
362 Belisle Street is a homeowner’s dream. Recently renovated! Victorian detail! Good neighborhood! A steal at $95,900! Real estate agent Glenn Darnley wonders why this charming property keeps coming back on the market. Perhaps the clawed feet of the old bath-tub look a little too real. Or maybe it’s the faint hospital-like smell of the room at the end of the hall. Or the haunting music that seems to come from nowhere.. . .
Three families buy 362 Belisle, but no one stays there for long. For this dream house has a mind and a heart of its own. It’s waiting patiently for its dream owner.
Open the door to a spine-chilling novel of terror in which home is not where you live – it’s where you hope to get out alive.. . .
Now... here's my original blog taken from a few years ago.
I like to think I don’t scare easily.....well....unless (picture this) I’m in a dark basement, watching a scary scene from the movie IT (Stephen King) and my young sister runs down the stairs in a clown costume screaming my name. NOT COOL SHEENA!! I eventually peeled myself off the ceiling, changed my soiled 'delicates' to than find her and yell at her! Fifteen years later and I still haven’t got over it. I don't like clowns!!!But I digress….
I
went through a Horror novel phase a few years ago and came
across some seriously frightening books (by John Saul, Douglas Klegg,
Scott Smith, Sarah Pinborough) Entertaining, good for a shiver, but I
always maintained ‘It’s just a book’ and moved on with my life.
Enter ‘The Dwelling’ by Susie Moloney. The scariest book on my bookshelf!
Do you remember that episode of Friends, where Rachael finds
Joey’s copy of the Shining in the freezer?
“The Dwelling” to me is my ‘Freak-me-out-Freezer Novel’
“The Dwelling” to me is my ‘Freak-me-out-Freezer Novel’
Now, I haven’t read it in a long time, and I have only ever read it
once. Why? Because I kid you not, it disturbed me so much that I had to hide it on
my bookshelf behind other books. Out of sight, out of mind! I didn’t want to be
reminded of what the pages contained. Talk about a heart-pounding fright-fest. We have moved several times, and for the
longest time, I just left it in one of my many boxes of ‘books I can’t fit on
my shelves’. Recently it has ended up back on my
shelf (behind other books of course) and the only reason I am reminded of that
is because my toddler decided to rearrange the shelves the other day. Oh look,
there it was. Staring up at me, mocking me….
I am curious… if I read it again will it scare me as much as
it did before? I refuse to get rid of it, just in case I decide I want to find
out. I can assure you though, that wont be any time soon. (Enter horrified shudder HERE)
I am sure some of you are thinking, "well than would you just tell us what the book is about"!!
In
short, it is about a house that is constantly on the
market. It shares the story of the
people who end up living in it, and you find out why the house is always
changing
hands rather quickly. Each person in each story seems haunted in a
different
manner. From what I am ‘willing’ to remember, the stories were well
told, and
seemed in a lot of ways ‘plausible’ if you believe in the paranormal.
The way she writes is fluid and it hooks you. The book is a page turner
and will make you chew your nails until they bleed. A good excuse to go
for a manicure. It may also make you wet yourself, so a side note, you may want to stock up on Depends while reading.
At this point, maybe some of you are thinking, 'Oh Irene, I am sure you are exaggerating, it can't be that scary'.
If that thought crossed your mind 'oh brave and skeptical one', you need to find a copy of this book, read it than tell me what you think!
To the rest, that are unsure what to think..I say to you: If you like your Stephen King, if you love your Anne Rice, or are just looking for a good ‘scare’, Than make room in your freezer and read ‘The Dwelling’ by Susie Moloney, at night, right before bed, with only a dim lamp on…..maybe clutching a teddy bear for moral support.....
I DARE you.
I hope you can scare up a copy!
Happy Halloween and Happy Reading!
Wednesday, 19 October 2016
Royally Screwed ~ Emma Chase
I will admit that recently I have been in a bit of a funk.
I have been in the mood to read something, but I didn't know what.
I kinda wanted to re-read something, but again, I didn't know which direction to go in.
This funk happens from time to time, as I am sure you are well aware.
Sometimes we bibliophiles get so overwhelmed with our choices we sit back, maybe take in a Netflix series (my latest binge has been Jessica Jones) take a walk and wait for a book to jump out at us and smack us in the face. I'll admit that recently I bought a few books that I do want to read, but I just couldn't bring myself to bother because they weren't exactly what I was looking for.
I would personally like to thank the one, the only Emma Chase for releasing Royally Screwed on a day where I needed a book to punch me in the face and say "READ ME!"
Royal Screwed is book Numero Uno in the newest series by Emma Chase!
It's a modern day fairy tale, and as you know, this mama loves a good fairy tale. (Even better when they are a little more adult in nature) If you are into Contemporary Romances or have a serious Will or Harry crush, then you're gonna wanna read this!
So what can I tell you about Royally Screwed? (Besides how much I get a kick out of that title?!)
Prince Nicholas is the handsome playboy heir to the throne of Wessco that all the women lust after.
Olivia is the pretty girl in the coffee shop who not just makes pies, but makes rude arseholes wear them when they cross a line.
He's a charmer, she's a spitfire.
They come from completely different worlds, but are made for each other! The couple are on a time limit which they are both very well aware of, but when that time limit is up...the question is can they both walk away unscathed?
Speaking of time limits, I had tried to put myself on one yesterday (Silliness) so I could read a bit and then get on with some housework.(A mothers work is never done......)
I started reading around noon with a time limit of 1:30pm to stop and do the dishes. (Sounds reasonable, right?)
The following is an example of how that went:
1:30: "Just 10 more minutes"
1:40pm "AH what the hell, I will read until 2pm"
2pm: "10 more minutes."
2:10pm: "Another 10...."
This pattern continued until I had no choice to put my Kobo down at 3:40pm and go get my kids off the school bus. The real kicker? I had to power my Kobo off RIGHT at a distinct turning point toward the end of the novel. It ate at me while I ran the kids off to their lessons. (Just my luck) However, I did finish the book yesterday evening. With the end, I sighed heavily, took notes for this blog and then I FINALLY did the dishes.
I am trying to sit here and think of which part of the novel stood out to me the most, or which part was my favorite. Was it when they met? Her Cinderella moment with friends? Her time with the Queen? The ending? Nope. Can't pick. For me, I equally loved this book from start to finish. I can't even nitpick the slightest detail. (Other then I am a bit whiny that now I have to wait for the rest of the series to be released!) I actually think while I immensely enjoyed her other novels, that this is going to be the series of hers I love the most.(It's okay, we can pick favorites)
What else can I say? It's a fantastic book, it was just what the doctor ordered and if anything....dishes and laundry can always wait! (I ain't Cinderella)
If you are anything like me and love a great romance that has a sense of humor, some sexy bits and a touch of style, then make sure you go out and get Royally Screwed! (Hehehehehe.......)
Also, if you love books by Christina Lauren and Alice Clayton then you aren't going to want to miss any of the books by Emma Chase!
As I mentioned above 'Royally Screwed' is book one, to be followed by book two 'Royally Matched' and book three 'Royally Endowed' (Screeeeeech....Can't wait!!!)
You can find more information about author Emma Chase and her writing by visiting her website: (Click that link)
And I will try to keep you posted via my Facebook Page about her future releases.
Royal Screwed Synopsis:
Nicholas Arthur Frederick Edward Pembrook, Crowned Prince of Wessco, aka “His Royal Hotness,” is wickedly charming, devastatingly handsome, and unabashedly arrogant―hard not to be when people are constantly bowing down to you.
Then, one snowy night in Manhattan, the prince meets a dark haired beauty who doesn’t bow down. Instead, she throws a pie in his face.
Nicholas wants to find out if she tastes as good as her pie, and this heir apparent is used to getting what he wants.
Dating a prince isn’t what waitress Olivia Hammond ever imagined it would be.
There’s a disapproving queen, a wildly inappropriate spare heir, relentless paparazzi, and brutal public scrutiny. While they’ve traded in horse drawn carriages for Rolls Royces and haven’t chopped anyone’s head off lately―the royals are far from accepting of this commoner.
But to Olivia―Nicholas is worth it.
Nicholas grew up with the whole world watching, and now Marriage Watch is in full force. In the end, Nicholas has to decide who he is and, more importantly, who he wants to be: a King... or the man who gets to love Olivia forever.
Happy Reading!
I have been in the mood to read something, but I didn't know what.
I kinda wanted to re-read something, but again, I didn't know which direction to go in.
This funk happens from time to time, as I am sure you are well aware.
Sometimes we bibliophiles get so overwhelmed with our choices we sit back, maybe take in a Netflix series (my latest binge has been Jessica Jones) take a walk and wait for a book to jump out at us and smack us in the face. I'll admit that recently I bought a few books that I do want to read, but I just couldn't bring myself to bother because they weren't exactly what I was looking for.
I would personally like to thank the one, the only Emma Chase for releasing Royally Screwed on a day where I needed a book to punch me in the face and say "READ ME!"
Royal Screwed is book Numero Uno in the newest series by Emma Chase!
It's a modern day fairy tale, and as you know, this mama loves a good fairy tale. (Even better when they are a little more adult in nature) If you are into Contemporary Romances or have a serious Will or Harry crush, then you're gonna wanna read this!
So what can I tell you about Royally Screwed? (Besides how much I get a kick out of that title?!)
Prince Nicholas is the handsome playboy heir to the throne of Wessco that all the women lust after.
Olivia is the pretty girl in the coffee shop who not just makes pies, but makes rude arseholes wear them when they cross a line.
He's a charmer, she's a spitfire.
They come from completely different worlds, but are made for each other! The couple are on a time limit which they are both very well aware of, but when that time limit is up...the question is can they both walk away unscathed?
Speaking of time limits, I had tried to put myself on one yesterday (Silliness) so I could read a bit and then get on with some housework.(A mothers work is never done......)
I started reading around noon with a time limit of 1:30pm to stop and do the dishes. (Sounds reasonable, right?)
The following is an example of how that went:
1:30: "Just 10 more minutes"
1:40pm "AH what the hell, I will read until 2pm"
2pm: "10 more minutes."
2:10pm: "Another 10...."
This pattern continued until I had no choice to put my Kobo down at 3:40pm and go get my kids off the school bus. The real kicker? I had to power my Kobo off RIGHT at a distinct turning point toward the end of the novel. It ate at me while I ran the kids off to their lessons. (Just my luck) However, I did finish the book yesterday evening. With the end, I sighed heavily, took notes for this blog and then I FINALLY did the dishes.
I am trying to sit here and think of which part of the novel stood out to me the most, or which part was my favorite. Was it when they met? Her Cinderella moment with friends? Her time with the Queen? The ending? Nope. Can't pick. For me, I equally loved this book from start to finish. I can't even nitpick the slightest detail. (Other then I am a bit whiny that now I have to wait for the rest of the series to be released!) I actually think while I immensely enjoyed her other novels, that this is going to be the series of hers I love the most.(It's okay, we can pick favorites)
What else can I say? It's a fantastic book, it was just what the doctor ordered and if anything....dishes and laundry can always wait! (I ain't Cinderella)
If you are anything like me and love a great romance that has a sense of humor, some sexy bits and a touch of style, then make sure you go out and get Royally Screwed! (Hehehehehe.......)
Also, if you love books by Christina Lauren and Alice Clayton then you aren't going to want to miss any of the books by Emma Chase!
As I mentioned above 'Royally Screwed' is book one, to be followed by book two 'Royally Matched' and book three 'Royally Endowed' (Screeeeeech....Can't wait!!!)
You can find more information about author Emma Chase and her writing by visiting her website: (Click that link)
And I will try to keep you posted via my Facebook Page about her future releases.
Royal Screwed Synopsis:
Nicholas Arthur Frederick Edward Pembrook, Crowned Prince of Wessco, aka “His Royal Hotness,” is wickedly charming, devastatingly handsome, and unabashedly arrogant―hard not to be when people are constantly bowing down to you.
Then, one snowy night in Manhattan, the prince meets a dark haired beauty who doesn’t bow down. Instead, she throws a pie in his face.
Nicholas wants to find out if she tastes as good as her pie, and this heir apparent is used to getting what he wants.
Dating a prince isn’t what waitress Olivia Hammond ever imagined it would be.
There’s a disapproving queen, a wildly inappropriate spare heir, relentless paparazzi, and brutal public scrutiny. While they’ve traded in horse drawn carriages for Rolls Royces and haven’t chopped anyone’s head off lately―the royals are far from accepting of this commoner.
But to Olivia―Nicholas is worth it.
Nicholas grew up with the whole world watching, and now Marriage Watch is in full force. In the end, Nicholas has to decide who he is and, more importantly, who he wants to be: a King... or the man who gets to love Olivia forever.
Happy Reading!
Monday, 10 October 2016
Beautiful ~ Christina Lauren
When you're a book addict, every so often a series or author comes along that gets you excited. So excited that you want to make everyone read that novel and make those people happy too.
Since it is Thanksgiving here in Canada-Land, not only am I sharing that novel but I am "Giving Thanks" for one of my top 10 favorite book collections out there!
If you have read the Beautiful Series by Christina Lauren (aka writing duo Christina Hobbs and Lauren Billings) then you will know that it is a collection of one of the most entertaining, witty and sexy reads you can find. Period. The End. Stamped It. Debate Over.
I first wrote about the original novel Beautiful Bastard a couple of years ago. When I read it, I was driving my friends nuts telling them they haaaaad to read it too. That book alone is so good, I can actually picture myself throwing copies at people whilst pretending to be Oprah:
"And YOU read this book....and YOU read this book.... and YOU read this book.....EVERYBODY OF A MATURE AGE- WHO LOVES A GOOD ROMANCE- READ THIS BOOK!"
(Don't think I wouldn't. I would)
Well my dears, if you haven't heard the latest news, then let me share: The final installment of the Beautiful series (aptly named 'Beautiful') was released last week.
Normally I like to go back and binge read the whole series before picking up the newest one, but considering October is my crazy month, I just didn't have the time. That's okay though, I have read each book and novella in this series so many times so jumping right in to Beautiful was fine for me without needing a refresher course. I will list all the titles for you at the end of this entry.
I will tell you that the entire series for me is one that I can, have and will read over and over again. It's like a good friend. Always there for you when you need it. While I am sad to see the series end, I think the authors did rather well with finishing it off. (And the good news is, they have other books! I will get to them another day!)
The biggest story line of this particular novel is how Pippa (Ruby's BFF) and Jensen (Hannah's Brother) meet and have their own sexy adventure. They're lucky to have their friends in tow as they embark on a wine tour and learn to be 'friends'. She's a quirky one that Pippa. Actually some of her antics reminded me of me.... (There is a scene involving standing on a chair and singing.... totally me.... or the one part where she says something completely inappropriate to the.....oh well...just read the book and just know that I share some of her more amusing traits..and I hope you do too.....)
Jensen is a rather uptight sort, so it's nice to watch his world get turned upside down throughout the story as HE makes a boo boo that leads to some hilarity. I love it when a man whether real or fictional gets thrown off balance by a women. Jensen needed a bit of a push (So did my hubby..hehehe...) and Pippa came along at the right time for him. Whether he likes it or not.
As a fan, one of the things that I really appreciated and loved are the multiple epilogues when the book concludes that feature all of our favorite characters. What a lovely way to complete the stories of these couples and let us have one last goodbye. Well done.
(For the actual book synopsis scroll down)
Now that I have done my duty and told you all about Beautiful, I have one more thing to do: Buy the rest of this collection for my bookshelf. With the exception of Beautiful Bastard, the rest of the novels are sitting on my e-reader and well, I need the hard copies too. I mean, what happens if technology fails one day? What is a girl to do? (I'm practicing my excuse for when my husband asks me why I am bringing more books into the house!)
To those who wont read a series until it is complete..... This one is done now. So go on. Scoot.... Grab yourself every title I listed. You can thank me later. (I like wine, diamonds and tropical vacations)
To those who are fans and didn't know it has been released already... Get on it! The book wont read itself! ;)
To Christina and Lauren. THANK YOU for gifting us romanticals such an amazing series to read!! Fingers Crossed for all things Hollywood!
Oh and one very important final note: 'Beautiful' pairs very well with a lovely Pinot Noir.
Happy Reading and Happy Thanksgiving to my fellow Canadians!
Series List: (Click on the underscored titles to see my previous blogs on them)
Beautiful Bastard
Beautiful Stranger
Beautiful Bitch
Beautiful Bombshell
Beautiful Player
Beautiful Beginning
Beautiful Beloved
Beautiful Secret
and finally....
Beautiful
Here's the synopsis for Beautiful:
Featuring the entire BEAUTIFUL series cast for one final hurrah!
A FREE-SPIRITED GIRL IN NEED OF A BREAK.
A MAN WEIGHED DOWN BY RESPONSIBILITY.
A ROAD TRIP VACATION WHERE ALL BETS ARE OFF.
OH, AND A LOT OF WINE.
After walking in on her boyfriend shagging another girl in their place, Pippa Bay Cox ditches London for the States to go on a drunken road trip with Ruby Miller and some of her Beautiful friends.
Scaling the career ladder is the default way to deal with heartbreak—and to just deal—for Jensen Bergstrom. Absolutely buried by his drive and workload, he rarely takes time for himself. But when his sister Hanna convinces him to join the gang on a two-week wine tour, he has a rare moment of cutting loose. Of course, it’s only once he’s committed that he realizes the strange girl he met briefly on the plane is coming along, too. She might be too much for him…or he might realize his life has become too small and needs her to make it bigger, crazier.
With this circle of friends there’s always something going on: from Chloe and Sara’s unexpected personality swaps to Will’s new domestic side to Bennett’s text message barrage and George’s own happily-ever-after. In short, their adventures in love, friendship, and hilarity are nothing short of Beautiful.
Since it is Thanksgiving here in Canada-Land, not only am I sharing that novel but I am "Giving Thanks" for one of my top 10 favorite book collections out there!
I first wrote about the original novel Beautiful Bastard a couple of years ago. When I read it, I was driving my friends nuts telling them they haaaaad to read it too. That book alone is so good, I can actually picture myself throwing copies at people whilst pretending to be Oprah:
"And YOU read this book....and YOU read this book.... and YOU read this book.....EVERYBODY OF A MATURE AGE- WHO LOVES A GOOD ROMANCE- READ THIS BOOK!"
(Don't think I wouldn't. I would)
Well my dears, if you haven't heard the latest news, then let me share: The final installment of the Beautiful series (aptly named 'Beautiful') was released last week.
I had such mixed emotions with this news:
“YES!!! A new book in the series
to read!”
Followed by:
“Noooooo!!! What do you mean the series is over???”
And of course the afterthought:
“Eeeeek……when am I going to find time to read it???”
(I made it through that emotional roller coaster…. I may
have not slept one night…however I will be okay)
Normally I like to go back and binge read the whole series before picking up the newest one, but considering October is my crazy month, I just didn't have the time. That's okay though, I have read each book and novella in this series so many times so jumping right in to Beautiful was fine for me without needing a refresher course. I will list all the titles for you at the end of this entry.
I will tell you that the entire series for me is one that I can, have and will read over and over again. It's like a good friend. Always there for you when you need it. While I am sad to see the series end, I think the authors did rather well with finishing it off. (And the good news is, they have other books! I will get to them another day!)
The biggest story line of this particular novel is how Pippa (Ruby's BFF) and Jensen (Hannah's Brother) meet and have their own sexy adventure. They're lucky to have their friends in tow as they embark on a wine tour and learn to be 'friends'. She's a quirky one that Pippa. Actually some of her antics reminded me of me.... (There is a scene involving standing on a chair and singing.... totally me.... or the one part where she says something completely inappropriate to the.....oh well...just read the book and just know that I share some of her more amusing traits..and I hope you do too.....)
Jensen is a rather uptight sort, so it's nice to watch his world get turned upside down throughout the story as HE makes a boo boo that leads to some hilarity. I love it when a man whether real or fictional gets thrown off balance by a women. Jensen needed a bit of a push (So did my hubby..hehehe...) and Pippa came along at the right time for him. Whether he likes it or not.
As a fan, one of the things that I really appreciated and loved are the multiple epilogues when the book concludes that feature all of our favorite characters. What a lovely way to complete the stories of these couples and let us have one last goodbye. Well done.
(For the actual book synopsis scroll down)
Now that I have done my duty and told you all about Beautiful, I have one more thing to do: Buy the rest of this collection for my bookshelf. With the exception of Beautiful Bastard, the rest of the novels are sitting on my e-reader and well, I need the hard copies too. I mean, what happens if technology fails one day? What is a girl to do? (I'm practicing my excuse for when my husband asks me why I am bringing more books into the house!)
To those who wont read a series until it is complete..... This one is done now. So go on. Scoot.... Grab yourself every title I listed. You can thank me later. (I like wine, diamonds and tropical vacations)
To those who are fans and didn't know it has been released already... Get on it! The book wont read itself! ;)
To Christina and Lauren. THANK YOU for gifting us romanticals such an amazing series to read!! Fingers Crossed for all things Hollywood!
Oh and one very important final note: 'Beautiful' pairs very well with a lovely Pinot Noir.
Happy Reading and Happy Thanksgiving to my fellow Canadians!
Series List: (Click on the underscored titles to see my previous blogs on them)
Beautiful Bastard
Beautiful Stranger
Beautiful Bitch
Beautiful Bombshell
Beautiful Player
Beautiful Beginning
Beautiful Beloved
Beautiful Secret
and finally....
Beautiful
Here's the synopsis for Beautiful:
Featuring the entire BEAUTIFUL series cast for one final hurrah!
A FREE-SPIRITED GIRL IN NEED OF A BREAK.
A MAN WEIGHED DOWN BY RESPONSIBILITY.
A ROAD TRIP VACATION WHERE ALL BETS ARE OFF.
OH, AND A LOT OF WINE.
After walking in on her boyfriend shagging another girl in their place, Pippa Bay Cox ditches London for the States to go on a drunken road trip with Ruby Miller and some of her Beautiful friends.
Scaling the career ladder is the default way to deal with heartbreak—and to just deal—for Jensen Bergstrom. Absolutely buried by his drive and workload, he rarely takes time for himself. But when his sister Hanna convinces him to join the gang on a two-week wine tour, he has a rare moment of cutting loose. Of course, it’s only once he’s committed that he realizes the strange girl he met briefly on the plane is coming along, too. She might be too much for him…or he might realize his life has become too small and needs her to make it bigger, crazier.
With this circle of friends there’s always something going on: from Chloe and Sara’s unexpected personality swaps to Will’s new domestic side to Bennett’s text message barrage and George’s own happily-ever-after. In short, their adventures in love, friendship, and hilarity are nothing short of Beautiful.
Tuesday, 27 September 2016
While Beauty Slept ~ Elizabeth Blackwell
For my first 'official' review back to blogging (see previous blog entry!)...... I had to go with this one!!
Who doesn't love a good fairy tale??
(Besides adults who grew up to realize the animals don't actually show up to help with housework....)
Growing up I was completely enchanted by the story of Sleeping Beauty. Why wouldn't I be??? She's a blonde haired princess who meets a handsome prince, He kisses her, the get married.....**sigh**....even at seven years old I was already a hopeless romantic.
I wanted to be Princess Aurora sooooooooo much that for whatever reason, I took a pencil and etched the words "Sleeping Buty" onto the wooden bathroom door in my childhood home.
Yikes!! Were my parents maaaaaaad!! Though it became a bit of a joke to those guests who actually noticed it...... "Going to the bathroom? Watch out!!! Should you sit too long you may end up with a sleeping 'butt'y"
(Bahahahaha)
I often wonder if the new owners of said home share in this hilarious tradition, or if they cussed me out and put a new door on......???
All my trips to Disney World as a child and I never got to meet my favorite princess....I was only able to see her from a distance. (Like, what the hell mom and dad?? Punishment for the door thing??) It wasn't until we took our oldest daughter on a trip to Walt Disney World in early 2010 when I FINALLY got to meet her. I believe my husband was slightly embarrassed when I 'HAD' to have that moment ever immortalized in a photo....... but hey.... Everyone is entitled to be a seven year old child again when visiting the most magical place on Earth!!
Enough about me, onto the novel that has inspired today's posting!
While Beauty Slept by Elizabeth Blackwell practically jumped off the Romance Table at Indigo and chased me around the store. Based on the fairy tale this novel offers a different take on 'what really happened'..... I HAAAAD to have it.
Book Description:
I am not the sort of person about whom stories are told.
And so begins Elise Dalriss’s story. When she hears her great-granddaughter recount a minstrel’s tale about a beautiful princess asleep in a tower, it pushes open a door to the past, a door Elise has long kept locked. For Elise was the companion to the real princess who slumbered—and she is the only one left who knows what actually happened so many years ago. Her story unveils a labyrinth where secrets connect to an inconceivable evil. As only Elise understands all too well, the truth is no fairy tale.
My Take:
**Sigh**
Such an fantastic take on the tale Sleeping Beauty with such a perfect ending!
I love how the author took the classic story and put her own spin on it through the eyes of Elise....
I found it to be a lovely but tragic version, and I really couldn't sense which way the author was going with the story....(It was nice not figuring out the ending of a novel for once)
I usually complain about books being too short or too long, I felt this one was just right. The story was told just as it needed to be and I really did love the ending.
As the novel follows our lead protagonist, we see her grow, mature and survive. Elise makes her decisions based at first on survival, but than on love...(and not romantic love) Her character is one to admire. She's loyal, caring, intelligent, determined and brave. Even as she learns about her past, she doesn't let her heritage or her station in life define her.
The story spans several years, from before Princess Rose's birth to the dreaded curse by the nasty Mallicent.
This is not the type of book where I am about to give away any secrets/spoilers or give you any more details!
You need to find yourself a copy and find our for yourself the enchanting fairy tale that Elizabeth Blackwell has spun.
This novel is so clever and entertaining, it's certainly one that I will be able to read over and over again! I am sure you will too!
Cheers!
Visit The Author Page.
Buy it on Amazon.com
Who doesn't love a good fairy tale??
(Besides adults who grew up to realize the animals don't actually show up to help with housework....)
Growing up I was completely enchanted by the story of Sleeping Beauty. Why wouldn't I be??? She's a blonde haired princess who meets a handsome prince, He kisses her, the get married.....**sigh**....even at seven years old I was already a hopeless romantic.
I wanted to be Princess Aurora sooooooooo much that for whatever reason, I took a pencil and etched the words "Sleeping Buty" onto the wooden bathroom door in my childhood home.
Yikes!! Were my parents maaaaaaad!! Though it became a bit of a joke to those guests who actually noticed it...... "Going to the bathroom? Watch out!!! Should you sit too long you may end up with a sleeping 'butt'y"
(Bahahahaha)
I often wonder if the new owners of said home share in this hilarious tradition, or if they cussed me out and put a new door on......???
All my trips to Disney World as a child and I never got to meet my favorite princess....I was only able to see her from a distance. (Like, what the hell mom and dad?? Punishment for the door thing??) It wasn't until we took our oldest daughter on a trip to Walt Disney World in early 2010 when I FINALLY got to meet her. I believe my husband was slightly embarrassed when I 'HAD' to have that moment ever immortalized in a photo....... but hey.... Everyone is entitled to be a seven year old child again when visiting the most magical place on Earth!!
 |
| This picture is titled 'Sleeping Beauty meets Sometimes Bitchy' |
Enough about me, onto the novel that has inspired today's posting!
While Beauty Slept by Elizabeth Blackwell practically jumped off the Romance Table at Indigo and chased me around the store. Based on the fairy tale this novel offers a different take on 'what really happened'..... I HAAAAD to have it.
Book Description:
I am not the sort of person about whom stories are told.
And so begins Elise Dalriss’s story. When she hears her great-granddaughter recount a minstrel’s tale about a beautiful princess asleep in a tower, it pushes open a door to the past, a door Elise has long kept locked. For Elise was the companion to the real princess who slumbered—and she is the only one left who knows what actually happened so many years ago. Her story unveils a labyrinth where secrets connect to an inconceivable evil. As only Elise understands all too well, the truth is no fairy tale.
My Take:
**Sigh**
Such an fantastic take on the tale Sleeping Beauty with such a perfect ending!
I love how the author took the classic story and put her own spin on it through the eyes of Elise....
I found it to be a lovely but tragic version, and I really couldn't sense which way the author was going with the story....(It was nice not figuring out the ending of a novel for once)
I usually complain about books being too short or too long, I felt this one was just right. The story was told just as it needed to be and I really did love the ending.
As the novel follows our lead protagonist, we see her grow, mature and survive. Elise makes her decisions based at first on survival, but than on love...(and not romantic love) Her character is one to admire. She's loyal, caring, intelligent, determined and brave. Even as she learns about her past, she doesn't let her heritage or her station in life define her.
The story spans several years, from before Princess Rose's birth to the dreaded curse by the nasty Mallicent.
This is not the type of book where I am about to give away any secrets/spoilers or give you any more details!
You need to find yourself a copy and find our for yourself the enchanting fairy tale that Elizabeth Blackwell has spun.
This novel is so clever and entertaining, it's certainly one that I will be able to read over and over again! I am sure you will too!
Cheers!
Visit The Author Page.
Buy it on Amazon.com
Guess Who's Back?
It's me again Margaret....or Ashley....Or Kelly.....Andrew....or **enter your name here**
Hello! Hey! How are ya!
For those of you who are familiar with my book blog and have been asking for new entries..... Good news! I am here to serve.
For those of you who are new: Welcome to where I ramble on about books ( and I do this using my really awful sense of humor-You've been warned)
I know it has been a long time (like since 2014!!!) since I posted an entry.
So let me get you updated on me!
I'm still blonde. Still married. Still on "Mom Duty" 24/7. I am trying to remember if I have introduced you to my dog Otis yet, but that may very well be one of the reasons I have had to forgo my computer time. (Oh I think I have a good blog idea to introduce you to him!)
I'm still reading a ton, but I am now doing it in a different city and house.
For those of you who don't know me and are new to this blog, I am an avid reader, I much prefer books to film. My superpower is speed reading. Basically, like a lot of you, books are my thing and I can be a total nerd about it.
So since I wasn't on here where was I?
I had a lot going on. Life inevitably takes over from time to time and usually the first things to take the hit are the hobbies. Mainly my hobbies. (Oh adulthood, you are a cruel beast....) I lost my focus and my drive for quite a long time. It's not fun, but it happens to the best of us.
So what can you expect from this blog as it moves forward?
Well my dears..... First and foremost my unique (or not so unique) review style.
Whether the novel is New or Old, Mainstream or Indie, if I have read it then I want to blog about it. I love to drum up some noise about novels and see if it's something you may like.
At this time I will NOT be taking new author review requests. I have a back log of books and blogs so I would like to focus on getting them up and out of the way before I move on to new territory. I will however announce when I am ready to take on new novels.
From time to time, I may host a contest or an author interview.
Genres I love to focus on are: Paranormal, Horror, Romance, Distopian, Young Adult, New Adult, Contemporary, "Mommy Porn", Historical (whether romance or not) Biographies, Thrillers and whatever else I come across that I like.
It's a wide variety.
I hope to host some guest book reviews as well.
I also have some new ideas... but lets get back into habit before I get a little crazy. (Baby steps)
So that's it for this post.
Your assignment shall you choose to accept it:
Whether you are new or old... go check out some of my other blog reviews.
If you like what you see. Follow along on here, Facebook or on Twitter: @ReenieDiva and say HI! (Don't be shy, I only bite when asked)
Warning: My Twitter is all over the map, I am only human and sometimes those hashtag games are waaaay too tempting-Am I right?
I now have to go figure out which blog I am posting first......maybe dust this place off and vamp up the look, ads and everything else on here (Seriously, it's looking a bit too much like 2014 up in here)
Hello! Hey! How are ya!
For those of you who are familiar with my book blog and have been asking for new entries..... Good news! I am here to serve.
For those of you who are new: Welcome to where I ramble on about books ( and I do this using my really awful sense of humor-You've been warned)
I know it has been a long time (like since 2014!!!) since I posted an entry.
So let me get you updated on me!
I'm still blonde. Still married. Still on "Mom Duty" 24/7. I am trying to remember if I have introduced you to my dog Otis yet, but that may very well be one of the reasons I have had to forgo my computer time. (Oh I think I have a good blog idea to introduce you to him!)
I'm still reading a ton, but I am now doing it in a different city and house.
For those of you who don't know me and are new to this blog, I am an avid reader, I much prefer books to film. My superpower is speed reading. Basically, like a lot of you, books are my thing and I can be a total nerd about it.
So since I wasn't on here where was I?
I had a lot going on. Life inevitably takes over from time to time and usually the first things to take the hit are the hobbies. Mainly my hobbies. (Oh adulthood, you are a cruel beast....) I lost my focus and my drive for quite a long time. It's not fun, but it happens to the best of us.
So what can you expect from this blog as it moves forward?
Well my dears..... First and foremost my unique (or not so unique) review style.
Whether the novel is New or Old, Mainstream or Indie, if I have read it then I want to blog about it. I love to drum up some noise about novels and see if it's something you may like.
At this time I will NOT be taking new author review requests. I have a back log of books and blogs so I would like to focus on getting them up and out of the way before I move on to new territory. I will however announce when I am ready to take on new novels.
From time to time, I may host a contest or an author interview.
Genres I love to focus on are: Paranormal, Horror, Romance, Distopian, Young Adult, New Adult, Contemporary, "Mommy Porn", Historical (whether romance or not) Biographies, Thrillers and whatever else I come across that I like.
It's a wide variety.
I hope to host some guest book reviews as well.
I also have some new ideas... but lets get back into habit before I get a little crazy. (Baby steps)
So that's it for this post.
Your assignment shall you choose to accept it:
Whether you are new or old... go check out some of my other blog reviews.
If you like what you see. Follow along on here, Facebook or on Twitter: @ReenieDiva and say HI! (Don't be shy, I only bite when asked)
Warning: My Twitter is all over the map, I am only human and sometimes those hashtag games are waaaay too tempting-Am I right?
I now have to go figure out which blog I am posting first......maybe dust this place off and vamp up the look, ads and everything else on here (Seriously, it's looking a bit too much like 2014 up in here)
Saturday, 3 May 2014
Hilarious Must Read! "Wallbanger" by Alice Clayton
.JPG)
Once upon a Time, at a Holiday Inn....or maybe a Best Western....(never mind those details, it was a hotel) was an exhausted family of four.
In the usual boring, standard room slept the pastor father, an innocent mother, a 15 year old sister and an 18 year old ME!!!!
(I can tell you are engrossed in this story already!)
We were traveling out west to a family reunion and after a long day of driving through Ontario, we pulled into a hotel for a well deserved rest.
Unfortunately, we were given a room next to people who wanted to rattle the walls all night long. They were screaming and moaning incessantly. Ugh.
Hindsight, I'm pretty sure it was Christian Grey and Anastasia Steele come to life, but we will never know.
Now, as you can imagine....my mother was shocked, but trying to keep her cool with a pillow shoved over her head. My dad was annoyed but tried to sleep none-the-less. My sister couldn't stop giggling and than there was me......sweet, innocent, lil ol' me........*enter angelic smile here*
At first I thought it was pretty funny but after awhile it was far too annoying. Even after I put my walkman on, I could still hear the banging!! (Walkman's are prehistoric iPods just in case any of you are confused)
My parents didn't want to say anything to the front desk, so as usual, I decided to be my family's saving grace.
I started jumping up and down on my bed and smacking the wall behind me yelling through it.
"OH YEAH, that's the stuff....."
"Could you people BE any louder?"
"HEY, PASTOR TRYING TO SLEEP! TAKE IT TO THE BATHROOM! WHILE HE PRAYS FOR YOUR SOUL!!"
"YOU'RE KINKY! IS THIS A PORN SHOOT?"
"DO YOU THINK YOU'LL GET PREGNANT???"
"WHAT IF THE CONDOM BREAKS??"
Yeah, I got reamed out by my parents, but guess what?
It stopped.
Best Selling Novel "Wallbanger" by Alice Clayton (author of the Redhead Series) is another book that has been on my radar for awhile now. Since I am still down and out from whatever devil virus I picked up, I decided to treat myself to another novel. (Two new books in one week....I am such a rebel...spendthrift...book addict....)
Considering I have my own Wallbanger story to tell, reading a novel on the topic was a must!
I do not even know where to begin when describing this novel. It's so bloody hilarious, I wasn't even a few chapters in when I felt compelled to tweet this to the world:
.PNG) |
| Follow Me On Twitter! Say HI! I'll follow back! |
This is a novel that I may end up buying a copy as a gift for my lil innocent mother to read. I think she would truly get a kick out of it!
Hands down Wallbanger is one of the most entertaining, laugh out loud books that I have read in a long time. I think it just shot to my number one favorite read of the year to date!
The witty banter, sarcastic narrative, clever jokes, sexual innuendos, humorous situations......Reading this book was like what it's like hanging out with my best friends, over glasses of wine, playing Malarky!! SO FUNNY!!
I honestly can't even nitpick, because I don't think there was anything in the book I didn't like. It was refreshing!
I personally thought this novel was so enjoyable that if you don't like it, may I be so bold to suggest you are dead inside? (Dead inside I say!)
I kid, we all have our unique tastes.
A quick run down now that I have done my over-enthusiastic 'must read' rant.
Caroline is hysterical. She's a bit like me. Always having to crack a joke, can be a teensy bit dramatic, loud.....a character after my own heart! She's on a bit of a dating hiatus after a terrible one night stand robbed her of any chance of getting to O-Town (and I am not talking Orlando Florida or the music group who sang Liquid Dreams) The fact that Wallbangers antics continuously rub it in her face that she's missing something in her life AND she is losing sleep makes Caroline grumpy to say the least.
Simon (aka Wallbanger) is her annoying neighbor who has a line up of woman on the go. (Pretty sure I met him once) Naturally he has to be the hottest guy she has ever laid eyes on, but it is hate at first bang on the wall. When she discovers he has some nicknames of his own for her....all hell breaks loose, and it's fantastic!
This story is told a few different ways. The majority of the story is told in Caroline's point of view....than as the story progresses, these hilarious chapters with text messaging between Caroline, Simon and other characters we meet in the novel (her best friends Mimi and Sophia and his friends Ryan and Neil) ....It's an entertaining way to have the time in the story pass! We also are treated to getting inside the heads of the characters during one extremely tense car ride. I really enjoyed those extra elements to the telling of the story and I loved being able to tap into what the other characters were thinking. (If only it was that easy in real life!)
Now I am totally hooked! Wallbanger is book one of The Cocktail Series and now I am overly excited to add these books, and her Bad Redhead series to my ever growing collection!
Five Stars.
Round of applause and some catcalls for author Alice Clayton!
Book Description:
The first night after Caroline moves into her fantastic new San Francisco apartment, she realizes she’s gaining an—um—intimate knowledge of her new neighbor’s nocturnal adventures. Thanks to paper-thin walls and the guy’s athletic prowess, she can hear not just his bed banging against the wall but the ecstatic response of what seems (as loud night after loud night goes by) like an endless parade of women. And since Caroline is currently on a self-imposed “dating hiatus,” and her neighbor is clearly lethally attractive to women, she finds her fantasies keep her awake even longer than the noise. So when the wallbanging threatens to literally bounce her out of bed, Caroline, clad in sexual frustration and a pink baby-doll nightie, confronts Simon Parker, her heard-but-never-seen neighbor. The tension between them is as thick as the walls are thin, and the results just as mixed. Suddenly, Caroline is finding she may have discovered a whole new definition of neighborly. . . .
In a delicious mix of silly and steamy, Alice Clayton dishes out a hot and hilarious tale of exasperation at first sight...
This is a novel that I WILL be reading over and over again!!!!
Book Two: "Rusty Nailed" releases on June 24th 2014 and is currently up for pre-order on Kobo and Amazon. I am so excited as Caroline and Simon's story continues in this highly anticipated novel!
Book Three: "Screwdrivered" releases on September 2, 2014 and is also up for pre-order. The third book in the Cocktail Series has us meeting new characters and more hilarious antics and Oh My God I can't wait!
You know I will have those reviews for you when I can!!!
Follow Author Alice Clayton on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AuthorAliceClayton
Visit her Website For More Information: http://aliceclayton.com
Now GO!
SCOOT!!!
BUY IT, READ IT, PEE YOUR PANTS!!
Happy Reading!!
Tuesday, 29 April 2014
Searching For Perfect ~ Jennifer Probst
WARNING: This book suggestion may cause you to purchase pocket protectors and lab coats for that special man in your life.
.JPG)
I chose a good day to be sick.
(Not that I really had a choice in this matter)
So whoever shared this virus with me,
I thank you.
Very little sleep, a stuffy nose, fever and wicked sore throat aren't getting me down.
Nope, not at all.
After all, it's absolutely pouring rain outside...so really is there anything better to do today than be forced to curl up on a couch to rest and read?
No, no there is not.
If you read my last blog (and you really should) than you know I have stumbled upon another great series and author...... and today was the release day of the second novel in that series:
Searching For Perfect by Best Selling Author Jennifer Probst.
I will cut straight to the chase on why all you sexy lil minxes should find a copy of Searching For Perfect:
Hot NERD sex.
WOW.
I mean, WOW.
*blink* *blink*
(Okay, the story was pretty good too)
Heck, Book One was pretty sexy....but in my opinion it was a tad milder compared to the fireworks in Searching For Perfect.
I was surprised that a few of the chapters I read today didn't cause my Kobo to spontaneously combust!
Me Likey!!
I think I have a bit of a book crush on Nate so I am going to tell you about his character first!
Nathan Ellison Raymond Dunkle (Hahaha, "Dunkle").....is such a nerd, even his name says so.
He's socially awkward, unkempt and married to his job where he literally IS a rocket scientist (oh, wait..."Aerospace Engineer".....) and he needs help finding a wife....(among other things.....) and he ends up as Kennedy Ashe's pet project at Kinnections, a match making agency she co-owns with her two best friends.
It turns out our feisty nerdy lil Ned, turns into hawt and naughty Nate.....
and it's great....
while they get ready to set him up on dates....
Kennedy resists the urge to mate....
(Cheesy rhyme, I know, but I am not editing it out)
As I anticipated from the first novel, we really got to take a look at Kennedy's bigger issues....She's this seemingly perfect female, beautiful, intelligent, successful.....but she is an inner wreck. Who knew that meeting Nate would throw a wrench into the perfect little bubble she created? She certainly didn't.
While her character back story is different from mine, I found Kennedy's story and struggles with eating, inner demons and body image very easy to relate to. I think that is one of the reasons I really like this series, the author's focus on not just telling sexy stories, but she invents characters that relate to inner and spiritual growth, who are still struggling to overcome very real hidden obstacles many of us face....(with the added bonus of romance and hot sex..... ;) )
The way Nate asserts himself with the overconfident Kennedy and throws off her game......meee-frackin'-yeow! Sparks fly in this story, so much I'm almost tempted to take up golf and get my sexy engineer hubby to teach me.
(I said almost...)
Now that I have waited all this time to get a copy of Searching For Perfect and it's over, now I'm antsy about reading Arilyn's installment when it's ready....and Oh MY GOD what is going to happen with Genevieve's storyline????????!!!!!!!!
(Who is Genevieve you ask? Read the book)
I love the fact that this series crosses over with the Marriage Merger series so we continuously keep up with some of our favorite characters!
I am truly impatient. I don't want to wait for the next book to release....unless it releases tomorrow....that I could handle....
Here is the Searching For Perfect synopsis from Amazon.com:
"The up-and-coming matchmaking agency Kinnections is the hottest thing to hit Verily, New York—just like Kennedy Ashe, social director for the service she owns with her two best girlfriends. A coach, consultant, and cheerleader rolled into one super-sizzling package, Kennedy creates dream dates, encourages singles to shine, and never refuses a challenge—not even Nate Ellison Raymond Dunkle, rocket scientist, nerd extraordinaire, and Kennedy’s newest client.
Kennedy vows to work her magic and transform this hot mess in a lab coat with a disastrous relationship track record into the most wanted man on the Verily dating scene. If only she could turn the wand on herself…though she radiates confidence and sex appeal, Kennedy harbors deep-seated insecurities from a tormented past and lifelong struggle with weight issues. When she realizes she and Nate are cut from the same cloth and might be perfect together, can Kennedy learn to let her heart lead the way? Or will her fears sentence her to the sidelines as Nate finds love—with someone else?"
Remember to check out my blog on Searching For Someday (Book 1) and get your cute little arses a copy of each title!
Contemporary Romance Lovers make sure you check out the author's website for more information and even more title suggestions! http://www.jenniferprobst.com/books/
Follow Jennifer Probst on Facebook.....
and while you're at it....
Follow Me on Facebook as well.
Happy Reading!
Saturday, 26 April 2014
Searching For Someday ~ Jennifer Probst
"Matchmaker.....Matchmaker....Make me a match.....Find me a find.....Catch me a Catch......"
SING IT WITH ME!!!!
I used to love that song as a kid. My sister and I used to put Fiddler on the Roof on to specifically sing and act out that song/scene....(well that song and 'If I were a rich maaaan......') Truth be told, I don't ever remember seeing the second half of that film..I always just wanted to watch the first....
Yeah, I like me my musicals.
But guess what? I am not reviewing a musical.....though if I get enough requests, I will try to sing a paragraph out of this novel for you....or maybe a portion of this review and post it on You Tube....Just make sure that if you want to see such nonsense that you've also supplied the wine in which I need to drink to do such a thing...(I kid. I don't need alcohol to do silly things, it's just a natural part of my charm)
Back to the topic at hand.
Searching for Someday, the first book in a new series by New York Times Best Selling Author Jennifer Probst.
While a completely separate series, the Searching novels find us revisiting some characters and a mysterious purple spell book that is the common thread in all the Jennifer Probst books I have read to date. (I love it when authors connect their series, makes it that much more interesting!)
I don't know if it was the Millionaire Matchmaker Marathon I watched the other day.....but I was in the mood to pick this book up give it a re-read and finally get around to telling you all to get out your wallets and buy this one!
This book is a great read for those of you who want to cozy up with a new romantic series and are scratching your head over what to read next.
It's easy.
THIS ONE.
A sexy comedy, this book is full of pop culture references and a lil bit of 'magic'. This first novel revolves around Kate Seymour, one of the owners of Kinnections, a matchmaking service she co-owns with her two best friends Arilyn and Kennedy. The three ladies have an amazing friendship and a special back story to tell, that I can't wait to learn more about as the series progresses. What we discover is that they have each overcome personal odds. The three of them are unique and each bring their own special something to their business, let alone their friendship.
Kate also has a little secret talent that helps her make matches. She's a modern day cupid with an electric touch.....but it when it finally goes off for her, she tries to fight it. While she is great at making other people find love connections, she's a bit dense when it comes to love for herself. (Aren't we all?)
She's caring, compassionate and wants to be in love or content in a committed relationship....she just would prefer her idea of perfect...and boy is Kate wrong about what she thinks she really needs in a man.
Slade Montgomery is a jaded divorce lawyer, out to prove Kinnections is a scam as he tries to save his sister Jane from further hurt. It's very amusing what happens once he and Kate start bumping heads......(It may lead to bumping other things....or will it?....Kate is really against the idea....) He's a bit clueless himself. I found myself irritated with his character. He has a tendency to jump to conclusions and see everything in a negative light, but deep down he has a good heart. Slade ends up giving Kate a seemingly impossible challenge she gladly accepts....even though she's an idiot for doing so (and he's an even bigger idiot for asking)
If there were ever two characters I'd like to jump in the novel and smack some sense into, it would be these two.
One of my favorite parts of this novel is toward the end. Without any spoilers, it takes your classic love scene, it takes your ideas of how you think it is going to end....throws it in the blender and voila we have a bit of a fresh new twist that sets it apart from cookie cutter novels from the genre....and I guess you will have to see how it plays out..... (For those who have read it, I am talking about events in Chapter 14)
I think this is a book that romantics will read again and again (and secretly hope a movie is made...I'm talking to YOU people in Hollywood that actually arrange such things....)
I always keep my eye out for novels with a matchmaking theme. I have read quite a few. I'll admit I find the process intriguing....I think it would be a fun occupation!
If you love sexy rom-com's than you want to check out Jennifer Probsts novels. You can bet I will have more blogs about some of her other books in the future.
Here is the full synopsis of Searching For Someday:
In charming Verily, New York, Kate Seymour has a smashing success with Kinnections, the matchmaking service she owns with her two best girlfriends. But Kate’s more than a savvy businesswoman: She’s gifted with a secret power, a jolting touch that signals when love’s magic is at work. It rocked her when she picked up a strange volume of love spells in the town’s used bookstore . . . and it zapped her again when she encountered Slade Montgomery, the hot-tempered— and hot-bodied—divorce lawyer who storms into Kinnections demanding proof that playing Cupid won’t destroy his vulnerable sister, Kate’s newest client. The only way to convince this cynic that she’s no fraud, and that love is no mirage, is for Kate to meet his audacious challenge: find him his dream woman. Can Kate keep their relationship strictly business when her electrifying attraction nearly knocked her off her feet? Or has the matchmaker finally met her match?
The good news from those who are interested in reading this series! The next book drops in a few days! April 29th I will be grabbing my e-copy of 'Searching For Perfect' which tells Kennedy's story! I can't wait!.............
**Edited to add** Release Day is here......You can click this link to take you to my Searching For Perfect review!
For more information on the author and her novels, please make sure you visit her website: http://www.jenniferprobst.com/books/
Happy Reading.
Wednesday, 16 April 2014
Divergent Trilogy ~ Veronica Roth
I'm currently suffering the effects of a book hangover.....
and I am blaming my friends.
That's right, I am blaming YOU people who kept asking me if I had read the Divergent series yet.
(You know who you are!! ;) )
The good news is......
I have read it now!!
.JPG)
Now, considering the fact the movie is already in theaters, it was only right that I should bump this series to the top of my list.
Now that I have read it, I am like 'WHOA'. (For lack of a better description)
I'm currently trying to make plans to catch the film while it's still in theaters. Lucky for me, handsome hubby wants to see it too. (Date night!! Cue romantic music!)
So many of you asked if it was worth reading, others wanted my thoughts.......Considering only 20minutes ago I finished reading the novel and ran to my nearest computer to start writing this..... I am more than willing to give them to you.
First off, if you do not even KNOW what Divergent is about, than you're in luck if you are reading this blog.
(And please know that you are forgiven for not knowing what it is about, because I haven't even read Hunger Games yet....these things happen....)
My Thoughts:
Okay, so like usual I really don't want to give any spoilers and it is very hard not to!!
The entire series is a crazy ride. I honestly hadn't even seen the movie trailers or read a description of the novel until I picked up the book, so I really didn't know what to expect myself. My ten year old daughter (who's friends had seen the film) was constantly chasing me around "I know what happens! My friends told me" (Great, here's a pat on the head, now hush and let me find out myself)
Beatrice Prior, the lead protaganist makes some choices that will change her life, but even she has no idea what the impact of those choices will be, and how quickly she will need to grow up. Finding out she is considered a 'Divergent' and needs to hide it....her natural curiosity for the truth sends her on a wild adventure. Never mind in the meantime, she ends up involved with the mysterious, sexy and edgy 'Four'.....
(Which by the way is now my new favorite number....meee-ow)
Beatrice is probably one of my favorite heroines I have ever encountered to date. She's incredibly brave, selfless but has that youthful innocence going for her. I loved how the balance between girl to womanhood played out. She grows into her own person as the series progresses, and her character comes full circle in Allegiant.
Now, the whole concept of the series surrounds the 'Factions' that their society is divided into.
Abnegation, Amity, Candor, Dauntless and Erudite.
Each one represents a type of personality and they work together using their talents to maintain a 'perfectly' functioning society. (Or so they think)
You can be born into one Faction, but after some tests, based on those results you choose which group you will live in, and that can ultimately change your life, as it did for Tris.
"Faction before Family" is what's preached... and heaven forbid you become "Factionless" or worse....let it be discovered that you are "Divergent".
While I never, ever in a million years would ever want to live in such a world..... I found the politics and concepts fascinating. Anyone interested in social sciences, here's a Dystopian read for you to dissect. I wish that this book had been on the reading list when I was in high school. I would have had a field day with the book report! (So any teachers out there, do your students a favor and get this on the required reading list...there are lots of great questions in the Divergent Bonus Material section!)
While the majority of the series is a roller coaster ride, there is a romantic story line. I found it less cheesy than other young adult romances in popular novels. Tris and Four put sense of duty ahead of their relationship which causes some tension and continued frustration for the two. (Can these crazy kids make it work?) Regardless, they are adorable together. (swoon....sigh)
Divergent is the slower paced novel of the three. It gradually picks up steam as the story goes, but don't think that because I say it is 'slower' that the others, that I mean it's boring or uneventful....because that is not the case. I found Divergent enthralling. We learn, we watch the story unfold and by the end of it I was on the edge of my seat....
For me I would compare it to climbing to the top of the first hill of a roller coaster and whooooooosh....down it goes into the next novel....(This is what led me to skip dinner and run to the store to buy the next two installments)
In the second novel Insurgent, we really are inundated with knowledge and this is where the whiplash starts to kick in. We learn more and even more twists, turns and action are thrown our way....It was a reading rush....
Allegiant, the third book..... well, usually I am never fond of the third installment of any series....and I will admit in this one, I didn't exactly like where the story went.....However, I did like the book and felt it was well done. Gah! I am so conflicted!!
This novel really frustrated the hell out of me and I find that I don't 'want' to like it.....but I did. (I hate myself for that)
Another tidbit, while the other novels are told from Tris's POV, the third book is told from both Tris and Four's perspective. It was nice to get into his head and see what was going on....
That is all I am telling you. Read it for yourself.
Word of Advice: If you haven't read this series yet, than definitely read them all in one shot. Do not read these novels out of order!!
All in all, I saw a fantastic story about why we shouldn't discriminate or label, not to mention on how trying to become 'pure' or 'perfect' is disastrous.
I hope that people walk away actually thinking about the real meaning of the story....and not just how awesome of a thriller it was or how cute and adorable Four is.....
(And he really really is........*sigh*)
A Bit of Fun:
After reading this series, I decided to take two separate "Which Faction Do You Belong To?" Quizzes.... (They are easy to find using your favorite search engine!)
The first Online Quiz had these results for me:
The second quiz came from my Divergent novel's bonus material. While the quiz was similar (but worded a bit different) and I somehow ended up with a three Faction tie....
Oh oh...perhaps I should have kept that a secret! (shhhhhhh)
Do I recommend this series: Hell-to-the-YES!
I have to say, I am on the fence about the age appropriateness of letting my 10 year old see the movie or read the book as she is bugging me to do, but I did purchase the trilogy as hard copies, rather than e-books so I could eventually let my daughter read them. I'll make that decision only after I have seen the film first. Until then, her friends can keep telling her all about it.
So what are you waiting for? Buy them, read them, go see the film.....and as much as I hope the film version does the novels justice....is it wrong of me to wish they'd rewrite the third installment?
Happy Reading.
and I am blaming my friends.
That's right, I am blaming YOU people who kept asking me if I had read the Divergent series yet.
(You know who you are!! ;) )
The good news is......
I have read it now!!
Now, considering the fact the movie is already in theaters, it was only right that I should bump this series to the top of my list.
Now that I have read it, I am like 'WHOA'. (For lack of a better description)
I'm currently trying to make plans to catch the film while it's still in theaters. Lucky for me, handsome hubby wants to see it too. (Date night!! Cue romantic music!)
So many of you asked if it was worth reading, others wanted my thoughts.......Considering only 20minutes ago I finished reading the novel and ran to my nearest computer to start writing this..... I am more than willing to give them to you.
First off, if you do not even KNOW what Divergent is about, than you're in luck if you are reading this blog.
(And please know that you are forgiven for not knowing what it is about, because I haven't even read Hunger Games yet....these things happen....)
My Thoughts:
Okay, so like usual I really don't want to give any spoilers and it is very hard not to!!
The entire series is a crazy ride. I honestly hadn't even seen the movie trailers or read a description of the novel until I picked up the book, so I really didn't know what to expect myself. My ten year old daughter (who's friends had seen the film) was constantly chasing me around "I know what happens! My friends told me" (Great, here's a pat on the head, now hush and let me find out myself)
Beatrice Prior, the lead protaganist makes some choices that will change her life, but even she has no idea what the impact of those choices will be, and how quickly she will need to grow up. Finding out she is considered a 'Divergent' and needs to hide it....her natural curiosity for the truth sends her on a wild adventure. Never mind in the meantime, she ends up involved with the mysterious, sexy and edgy 'Four'.....
(Which by the way is now my new favorite number....meee-ow)
Beatrice is probably one of my favorite heroines I have ever encountered to date. She's incredibly brave, selfless but has that youthful innocence going for her. I loved how the balance between girl to womanhood played out. She grows into her own person as the series progresses, and her character comes full circle in Allegiant.
Now, the whole concept of the series surrounds the 'Factions' that their society is divided into.
Abnegation, Amity, Candor, Dauntless and Erudite.
Each one represents a type of personality and they work together using their talents to maintain a 'perfectly' functioning society. (Or so they think)
You can be born into one Faction, but after some tests, based on those results you choose which group you will live in, and that can ultimately change your life, as it did for Tris.
"Faction before Family" is what's preached... and heaven forbid you become "Factionless" or worse....let it be discovered that you are "Divergent".
While I never, ever in a million years would ever want to live in such a world..... I found the politics and concepts fascinating. Anyone interested in social sciences, here's a Dystopian read for you to dissect. I wish that this book had been on the reading list when I was in high school. I would have had a field day with the book report! (So any teachers out there, do your students a favor and get this on the required reading list...there are lots of great questions in the Divergent Bonus Material section!)
While the majority of the series is a roller coaster ride, there is a romantic story line. I found it less cheesy than other young adult romances in popular novels. Tris and Four put sense of duty ahead of their relationship which causes some tension and continued frustration for the two. (Can these crazy kids make it work?) Regardless, they are adorable together. (swoon....sigh)
Divergent is the slower paced novel of the three. It gradually picks up steam as the story goes, but don't think that because I say it is 'slower' that the others, that I mean it's boring or uneventful....because that is not the case. I found Divergent enthralling. We learn, we watch the story unfold and by the end of it I was on the edge of my seat....
For me I would compare it to climbing to the top of the first hill of a roller coaster and whooooooosh....down it goes into the next novel....(This is what led me to skip dinner and run to the store to buy the next two installments)
In the second novel Insurgent, we really are inundated with knowledge and this is where the whiplash starts to kick in. We learn more and even more twists, turns and action are thrown our way....It was a reading rush....
Allegiant, the third book..... well, usually I am never fond of the third installment of any series....and I will admit in this one, I didn't exactly like where the story went.....However, I did like the book and felt it was well done. Gah! I am so conflicted!!
This novel really frustrated the hell out of me and I find that I don't 'want' to like it.....but I did. (I hate myself for that)
Another tidbit, while the other novels are told from Tris's POV, the third book is told from both Tris and Four's perspective. It was nice to get into his head and see what was going on....
That is all I am telling you. Read it for yourself.
Word of Advice: If you haven't read this series yet, than definitely read them all in one shot. Do not read these novels out of order!!
All in all, I saw a fantastic story about why we shouldn't discriminate or label, not to mention on how trying to become 'pure' or 'perfect' is disastrous.
I hope that people walk away actually thinking about the real meaning of the story....and not just how awesome of a thriller it was or how cute and adorable Four is.....
(And he really really is........*sigh*)
A Bit of Fun:
After reading this series, I decided to take two separate "Which Faction Do You Belong To?" Quizzes.... (They are easy to find using your favorite search engine!)
The first Online Quiz had these results for me:
The second quiz came from my Divergent novel's bonus material. While the quiz was similar (but worded a bit different) and I somehow ended up with a three Faction tie....
Oh oh...perhaps I should have kept that a secret! (shhhhhhh)
Do I recommend this series: Hell-to-the-YES!
I have to say, I am on the fence about the age appropriateness of letting my 10 year old see the movie or read the book as she is bugging me to do, but I did purchase the trilogy as hard copies, rather than e-books so I could eventually let my daughter read them. I'll make that decision only after I have seen the film first. Until then, her friends can keep telling her all about it.
So what are you waiting for? Buy them, read them, go see the film.....and as much as I hope the film version does the novels justice....is it wrong of me to wish they'd rewrite the third installment?
Happy Reading.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)