Book Review: Raw by Belle Aurora

Raw by Belle Aurora

~1st Person POV

I haven't been able to blog recently because I've been studying for my midterm examinations and I've been doing projects and papers that were to be submitted before and after the exams. I have just been through hell week and I finally get to log again. Yay! So anyway, since yesterday, I've been in a rut. Have you ever felt like you can't find a book that piques your interest? Like when you look at the books on goodreads or amazon, you can't find something that makes you want to stop everything and read it? hat is what I've been feeling. I started this book not really sure if I should finish it, but boy am I happy I did. On that, let's start with:

***Author Note: This is not a love story. This is a story of love gone wrong.*** 

When I read it, I did not at all listen. I think somewhere deep inside I know the book will be filled with pain and angst and I wanted it. I haven't been feeling the need to read and I thought that maybe if I read another angst filled book I would find my "mojo" again. Well, I guess I sort of have it back. I'm halfway back to the girl who wants to read all day and all night.

Synopsis from Amazon:

Growing up the way I did, you’d think I’d be more screwed up than what I actually am. 
Soon as I turned sixteen, I left that bump in the road I called home and took my chances on the street. 
Best decision I ever made. 
Now, at the age of twenty six, I’m educated, employed and damn good at my job. 
My friends have become my family. Like me, they know what it’s like to grow up unloved. 
But the saying is true. 
The world makes way for those who know where they are going. 
That’s me. 
I know where I’m going and I’ll get there eventually. On my own terms and at my own pace. 
But then there’s him. 
I feel his eyes on me. I see him hiding in plain sight. He watches me. 
He makes me feel. 
It’s unconventional. 
But it’s real. 

I’m sure you’re wondering how a person falls in love with their stalker. 
So am I. 

This isn’t a story. 

This is my life. 

When I read this synopsis I thought I'll be reading the book from the hero's point of view.  It started from the heroine's POV, but somewhere in the middle till the end it showed both of their POVs.

I started the book with a smile. I was excited to get my dose of drama. There is stalking involved and I felt like I was about to read about a good girl falls in love with the handsome bad boy stalker. There is that hint where you think that hey he seems nice and harmless enough, especially since he doesn't really do anything. He's just always there watching. It made me feel like he was there because he wants to ask the girl out but he thinks she'll either say no or think that he isn't good enough. The whole stalker follows girl thing kind of reminded me of Leo by Mia Sheridan. This book was different though. When I kept reading, it made me feel like "oh something bad will happen soon, I can practically smell it" and I was right.

Our heroine Alexa is a beautiful social worker who is passionate about her work. I applauded how she loved her work and how she treats her "kids" with some sort of love. I respect her for helping the kids out. I did not like her in a lot of the scenes where she just allows herself to be manipulated by out bad boy hero. So with that, let's just talk about Twitch. He's now part of my bad boy collection! He's intense, he's controlling, he's manipulative, he's just so raw I feel sorry for Alexa a lot of times. There were moments where I don't know if I should like him or hate him. There were also moments where I feel sorry for him, although take note, he hates being labeled and like any man would, he hates being pitied.

I squirmed a lot of times, during the sex scenes. I just felt uncomfortable...


****SPOILER***** 
when he wraps his belt around her neck like a dog. She was into it too! There was a time where she said she missed the belt! I couldn't really believe it. I can get the parts where she felt turned on by a little pain and that, but the belt? It really turned me off. 




****CONTINUE HERE*********
It wasn't my cup of tea. I did not feel their connection as much as I wanted to, but there really is something about them I kept wanting to reading about, that feeling you get when you want to see something more happen. You want to see something happen that will give you that connection, that feeling where you think that, hey they really are right for each other. Somewhere near the end though, I got it. Just when I thought it was becoming hopeless, I felt it. The hero had me believing in him, rooting for him to be better for her. I really liked Twitch, he showed some qualities I didn't think he'd have. He got my wheels turning from the point of no return. I love those type of bad boys. Just when you think they're hopeless, they show you something that makes you believe in them.

I was about to finish the book, when I started crying. I felt intense pain, and I just couldn't help but cry. I was hurting for them. I felt oh so happy I got my angst, and I also felt like cr*p for all the pain the book put me through. I did not see it coming to an end that way and I loved it. I only wish there was a sequel because I think there unfinished questions. There were things I wanted to know about, and if right now, the author doesn't plan on writing the sequel, then I feel like I just have to make something up in my mind to satisfy myself. Don't get me wrong, after reading the book, I felt satisfied that it didn't end the way I thought it would. I felt satisfied enough to not want to read another book for a bit, just because it was really good and I don't know what book to follow it with. I didn't want to read  something and feel like it's not a "good enough" book because it followed one which was really great. Does that make sense?

Anyway, this book was unique and I enjoyed reading it, even though there were moments where I felt like I had to put it down because I was too annoyed at something. I put it down a few times for a few seconds and continued reading till I finished it around 2 AM.

★★★★½ ~~~~~ 4.5 Stars!

I want to give it 5 stars, but there were some things I did not like. It's still a great read that should make its way to your TBR list! ~xo Publisher: Unknown - 6:38 PM

Book Review: Charade by Nyrae Dawn

Charade [Games Series Book 1]
~1st Person POV

It was a really good book. I've read it before and I recently reread it before I continued with book 2 of the series. The book didn't really get as much attention as it did for me before, but it still managed to make me shed a few tears.

Synopsis from Amazon:
"Nineteen-year-old Cheyenne tries to portray the perfect life to mask the memories of her past. Walking in on her boyfriend with another woman her freshman year in college threatens that picture of perfection. 

Twenty-one-year-old Colt never wanted college and never expected to amount to anything, but when his mom's dying wish is for him to get his degree, he has no choice but to pretend it's what he wants too. 

Cheyenne needs a fake boyfriend to get back at her ex and Colt needs cash to take care of his mom, so they strike a deal that helps them both. But what if Cheyenne’s past isn’t what she thought? Soon they’re trading one charade for another—losing themselves in each other to forget about their pain. The more they play their game, the more it becomes the only thing they have that feels real.

Both Cheyenne and Colt know life is never easy, but neither of them expect the tragedy that threatens to end their charade and rip them apart forever."

When I started reading this book, I was a few pages in and I instantly found it interesting. Cheyenne finds out his boyfriend[now ex-boyfriend], Gregory was cheating on her on her freshman year in college. Worse than finding out he's been doing it for a long time, she finds herself without actual friends since they only knew her through her cheating ex.I liked how it started with her seeing Gregory in bed with another woman because it would instantly intrigue you. I asked myself the first time I read it, what the hell will she do? What will happen now? I kept reading. I also kept finding reasons to keep reading. I think the alternating POVs of the hero and heroine helped with it. They were both battling their demons and it was interesting to see how the other mind thinks and sees the situation at hand. I thought the whole charade kept the book interesting in the start and even though I knew at some point it would make them actually be together, I still wondered where it was going and how far it would go.

Cheyenne was an okay heroine. She showed some bravery and strength, which are my favorite traits for the heroines. There were some moments that I thought were a bit annoying. I found myself either sighing, rolling my eyes or furrowing my brows a few times. Then again, it may just be me. Don't get me wrong, I do like Cheyenne, but I don't love her. She was a good character and I want to read more of her thoughts.

On the other hand, I love Colt! His love for his mom just breaks my heart. He's this 'bad-ish' boy who has a golden heart, but needs to see it. His POV made me cry the first time I read the book and shed a few more tears the second time. Oh how I love reading about his struggles. He's doing everything he can and it breaks my heart to read his thoughts. The author did a splendid job on him. He had a few outbursts and no one could blame him. I felt this character more than Cheyenne. I have to say though that I think they really do fit together.

I just have to stress out one of the things this book taught me: Cherish your parents. I had goosebumps near the end and I just cried. The way it was written, I felt like I was in pain like Colt and Cheyenne. I honestly felt it and I loved it. I found out this author should be part of your 'Authors to watch out for' lists!

★★★★ ~~~ 4 Stars!

The next book is about another character. I'll try to put up the book review soon. ~xo Publisher: Unknown - 1:36 AM

Book Review Marked Part 1: The Missing Link by J.M. Sevilla

Marked Part 1 [The Missing Link] UK
Marked Part 1 [The Missing Link] US
~1st Person POV

I was unfortunately sick yesterday and I went over my To-Be-Read list when I came across this book. I completely forgot about it. I don't know why, but good thing my friend told me it was recently featured in a blog she was reading. I finally got to read it and boy was I glad I did! This deserves to be part of my favorites list! I am suffering from extreme book hangover and I love and hate it at the same time.

Synopsis from Amazon:

"Part one of a two part series. 

There are three things Lily Evans immediately notices about her new neighbor, Jay Lincoln. The first is his monstrous size, the second is the malicious way he glares at her, and thirdly, but most importantly, the three scars that mark his right eye. She knows the smart thing to do is stay away, but she has never met or seen anyone like him. The more time she spends with this frightening yet captivating man, the harder it becomes. He can make her hairs stand on end but he also has a sweetness to him that tugs at her heart. Soon she finds herself merged into his world full of murder, revenge, and deceit."

I'm not exactly sure where to start, but I guess I could say it broke my heart. I am so happy I get to feel tortured and in pain while reading this book. I've put my tab down several times just because I was too annoyed or angry to continue reading. When our heroine felt jealous I felt it too! Crazy I know! All  true! I felt like I needed to come out of the story and actually breathe. I was sick while reading it and I was told to read lighter books, but how can I resist!

I loved Lily. She was strong, she's persistent and she did not come on as annoying at all. I love how she was not as annoyingly insecure as most heroines, and how strong willed she is. She has her hesitations, but she does what she wants still, even if it means getting close and having her heart broken. Lily is now also one of my favorite heroines, she's there with Sarai/Izabel from the In The Company of Killers Series. If you haven't read it yet, I've recently made a book review about book 1, just click here. Anyway, Lily recently ended an abusive relationship with her two year boyfriend Will. She comes back home to live with her mother and brother[let's include her step brother too]. On Christmas night, her mother sees their new neighbor bring home a bag from Taco Bell and tells Lily to invite him to dinner. You get how it starts out?

I absolutely enjoyed how our hero Jay has his hesitations and how he came off as frightening and reserved at first, but suddenly shows these really sweet gestures. I really do love him, even though he has all these scars and a dark past he must overcome. Don't they all? We still love them though, well I certainly do. I've never been a fan of bad boys in real life, but books have a certain way of making me feel like we all need a little bad boy in our lives. This book is no different. I found myself wanting Jay, when he's supposed to be marked as 'not my book boyfriend type'. Why? First, the buzz cut. I often find myself liking ones that are long enough that it could look like he just had some 'fun'... if you know what I mean. With Jay though, I could make an exception. I don't know why, maybe it's him as a package. I could see how his image fits his personality and it makes it work. Second, the scars: Usually, we get the perfect Adonis who looks like he was God's gift to women everywhere. Don't get me wrong, Jay looks pretty damn good in my mind, but you know the generic bad boy with the throngs of adoring women, they all pretty much look perfect. Jay's scars and the story that goes with them still captured me and made me put him on my favorite book boyfriends. I could go on and on about how I adore Jay and how he forced himself into the same room as my perfect heroes, but you have to find out for yourself and see if Jay would fit with your list.

This book got me laughing and chuckling to myself several times. It also had me gripping my pillow and furrowing my eyebrows at a lot of the scenes. My heart honestly ached and I wanted to cry it all out, but for some reason I can't. There was a time when I feel like I want to cry along with the heroine because I felt was she was feeling, but I can't cry at all! It was so frustrating! Maybe because I sensed the pain he left her with was only his 'way to make things better for her' but why did it still make my heart feel like it was being squeezed. It ended in such a cliffhanger though, so I feel frustrated while writing this review. I read that the second book will come out this march 2014, but that will take so long! If you can't handle a 'cliffie' put this on your to be read list! It's worth the wait. I would not pass up on this book if I were you.



**SPOILER WARNING**
At one point I was really mad at Jay for how he acted inside the bar. That was one my 'put the tab down and breathe' moments. I saw this from the author's facebook page.
"Author J.M. Sevilla
January 3
I've had some readers message me in regards to the club scene, worried about Jay's behavior towards Arianna. You can rest assured that Jay had his reasons for acting the way he did and not once wanted Arianna that night in the club. Hopefully those that it bothered can breathe a little easier in Part II when things are clarified early on in the book."
But still, why does his actions annoy me so much. It was the only thing I disliked in the book. Lily made friends with Arianna, but I am not that friendly or forgiving. It turned down from Hate to dislike when she tried to help them out in the end. Sorry, maybe I need to see more of her good side?


☆☆☆☆☆ ~ 5 Stars!

I want more! Publisher: Unknown - 5:25 PM

Book Review: Reviving Izabel by J.A. Redmerski

Reviving Izabel [In The Company of Killers #2]
~1st Person POV

This book has made it's way to my favorite books! Actually, it's more like this series is one of my favorite series. I loved this book! It contains death and graphic scenes some people might not like, but I loved this! I did not put it down same as book 1 and I wanted to this review before I start reading another book.

First, I have to say I love the cover. I think I failed to acknowledge it in book 1, but I do love it as well. I could really see the woman as Sarai or Izabel. Sarai was strong in the first book, and I cannot believe how she gets to become a strong person here. The book continues from Sarai returning to a normal life and Victor disappearing. She doesn't even know if Victor is alive or not. Well, since we have book two here, you guessed it, of course Victor is still alive. 

Synopsis from Amazon:

"Determined to live a dark life in the company of the assassin who freed her from bondage, Sarai sets out on her own to settle a score with an evil sadist. Unskilled and untrained in the art of killing, the events that unfold leave her hanging precariously on the edge of death when nothing goes as planned.

Sarai's reckless choices send her on a path she knows she can never turn back from and so she presents Victor with an ultimatum: help her become more like him and give her a fighting chance, or she'll do it alone no matter the consequences. Knowing that Sarai cannot become what she wants to be overnight, Victor begins to train her and inevitably their complicated relationship heats up.

As Arthur Hamburg's right-hand man, Willem Stephens, closes in on his crusade to destroy Sarai, she is left with the crushing realization that she may have bitten off more than she can chew. But Sarai, taking on the new and improved role of Izabel Seyfried, still has a set of deadly skills of her own that will prove to be all she needs to secure her place beside Victor.

But there is one test that Izabel must face that has the potential to destroy everything she is working so hard to achieve. One final test that will not only make her question her decision to want this dangerous life, but will make her question everything she has come to trust about Victor Faust."

When I read the Synopsis I was already intrigued. I could not wait to see what test she has to pass. I was hooked and I could not put it down. I wanted to see more of Cassie and Victor's affair. If you're holding on to the thought of them being all sappy and romantic, don't. Don't hold your breath. This book is more than just romance. It focuses on Sarai's transformation to become like Victor. I absolutely love women empowerment and even though she's a little too violent here for some people, I just had to give her props for bravery and strength. Some would say she made several stupid mistakes, even Victor agrees there and I have to agree, but she was determined and I liked that about her. 

We get to see more of Victor's emotions here and I cried for him a little before I got frustrated and mad at him. Oh how he took me on a roller coaster ride from wanting him to hating him, then back to wanting him again. He's a ball of uncertainty and I like it. I don't want to spoil the story, but the last part made me angry. I think people should read it without any idea what will happen in the end. I was mad at the surprise, yes, but it made me feel the story much more. People might have different opinions about it, but you won't hear me complaining.

I liked the characters in this book and I even grew fond of Fredrik, the next character to have his own story in book 3. I don't know why, but I fell in love with Fredrik! He is currently my favorite man in the series. I want to see his part soon! Maybe it's the mental anguish I wish to inflict on myself, but Fredrik has me wanting more. I thought the story line was just right, it was written with great detail and the pacing was enough to capture my attention. I felt what Sarai felt and I believed in her thoughts, even her last decision. I would definitely recommend this to my friends! 

☆☆☆☆☆ ~ 5 Stars

Publisher: Unknown - 3:16 AM

The Perfect Game Series Reading Order by J. Sterling

This is my second Reading Order post for today! Yay! I've already made a book review for book 1, The Perfect Game and if you want to check it out, just click here. I have mixed feelings about book 1, although the series gets better, but I have yet to do the book reviews for the other two books. I would do so when I have the time. At this point, I am just sad at how I didn't start blogging when I started my reading addiction. I've read tons of books I want to make reviews for, but I either simply do not have the time or I have to reread it and try to remember my experience while seeing if I still feel the same or if I lose interest in it.

The Perfect Game Reading Order
1. The Perfect Game
2. The Game Changer
3.  The Sweetest Game

 



Synopsis of Book 1 from Amazon:
"He's a game she never intended to play. 
And she's the game changer he never knew he needed.
The Perfect Game tells the story of college juniors, Cassie Andrews and Jack Carter. When Cassie meets rising baseball hopeful Jack, she is determined to steer clear of him and his typical cocky attitude. But Jack has other things on his mind...like getting Cassie to give him the time of day. 
They are damaged, filled with mistrust and guarded before they find one another (and themselves) in this emotional journey about love and forgiveness. Strap yourselves for a ride that will not only break your heart, but put it back together. 
Sometimes life gets ugly before it gets beautiful... "


Synopsis of Book 2 from Amazon:
"Jack appeared at my door last night after six months of no communication wearing a Mets jersey and holding a dozen red roses. He told me he was sorry, that he loved me, and that he would earn my trust again. It took everything in me to not fall apart at the mere sight of him. I wanted to take him back into my life, but I needed to know that this time it would be forever...

In J. Sterling's highly anticipated follow-up to her USA Today bestselling novel The Perfect Game, Jack and Cassie quickly realize that their new lifestyle can often be cruel and unforgiving. Their happiness is put to the test as the past is never truly far behind. 

How do you stay together when the world's trying to tear you apart? "


Synopsis of Book 3 from Amazon:
"It's one hell of a sledgehammer to the chest when your baseball career comes to an end. It's like you finally realize that baseball never loved you back. All the sleepless nights, the hours spent at the gym trying to stay fit, the conditioning, the training, the mental preparation, the holidays missed, the birthdays passed, the memories you didn't get to make with your family ... all for what? It's not like baseball lost any sleep over you. She didn't stay awake for nights on end, trying to figure out how to make you a better player. She didn't care. Baseball's a business. A sport. A game. And as much as my entire life has been wrapped up in it, it's time to let it go." - Jack Carter


Publisher: Unknown - 2:48 AM

In The Company of Killer Reading Order by J.A. Redmerski

I absolutely loved this series and I intend on reading the whole thing including the prequel, which will be out soon I hope. I've read book 1, which is Killing Sarai and I gave it 5 Stars! Check out my review here. I have already read book two and I also loved it. I can't wait for Book three to be published. It's for another character in the book, but I am very excited.

In The Company Of Killer Reading Order 

0.5 Seeds of Iniquity [Fredrik's back story]

1.0  Killing Sarai

2.0  Reviving Izabel

3.0  The Swan & The Jackal ~ To be published this year 2014

 

Synopsis for Book 1: [From Amazon]

"Sarai was only fourteen when her mother uprooted her to live in Mexico with a notorious drug lord. Over time she forgot what it was like to live a normal life, but she never let go of her hope to escape the compound where she has been held for the past nine years.

Victor is a cold-blooded assassin who, like Sarai, has known only death and violence since he was a young boy. When Victor arrives at the compound to collect details and payment for a hit, Sarai sees him as her only opportunity for escape. But things don't go as planned and instead of finding transport back to Tucson, she finds herself free from one dangerous man and caught in the clutches of another.

While on the run, Victor strays from his primal nature as he succumbs to his conscience and resolves to help Sarai. As they grow closer, he finds himself willing to risk everything to keep her alive; even his relationship with his devoted brother and liaison, Niklas, who now like everyone else wants Sarai dead.

As Victor and Sarai slowly build a trust, the differences between them seem to lessen, and an unlikely attraction intensifies. But Victor's brutal skills and experience may not be enough in the end to save her, as the power she unknowingly holds over him may ultimately be what gets her killed.

This is their story..."

P.S. I'll be making a review for the second book and I love it! I can't wait for Fredrik's book. I sort of feel like he's more interesting than Victor. I also like the thought of him more for some reason. Anyway, I'll be crossing my fingers, hoping it comes out soon. ~ xo

Publisher: Unknown - 2:29 AM

Book Review: The Perfect Game by J.Sterling

The Perfect Game [Game Series #1]

~1st Person POV

So I'm sitting in the waiting area of a hospital and I don't have anything to do. I was going to read a nice drama filled book, but I decided to write reviews for previous books I've read. One of the recent books I've finished is called The Perfect Game. 

Actually, the first paragraph was true yesterday, but I didn't have time to put it up. It was made in blogaway and I've only decided to finish this today before I start on my Reviving Izabel Book Review.

Warning: If you do not like reading books that involve cheating, this isn't for you.

Synopsis from Amazon:

"He's a game she never intended to play. 

And she's the game changer he never knew he needed.

The Perfect Game tells the story of college juniors, Cassie Andrews and Jack Carter. When Cassie meets rising baseball hopeful Jack, she is determined to steer clear of him and his typical cocky attitude. But Jack has other things on his mind...like getting Cassie to give him the time of day. 

They are damaged, filled with mistrust and guarded before they find one another (and themselves) in this emotional journey about love and forgiveness. Strap yourselves for a ride that will not only break your heart, but put it back together. 

Sometimes life gets ugly before it gets beautiful... "

I am currently confused about my feelings regarding this book. I was infuriated by Jack's lack of self control and Cassie's weak decisions. It actually started nicely. It reminded me of Beautiful Disaster [I'll be making a book review for it as soon as I can read it again]. Cassie was also resisting Jack, acting all mean and feisty and Jack called Cassie Kitten, while in B.D. it was pigeon. Anyway, Cassie decided to give the campus hot playboy a chance. I would have wanted to seen more of the chasing Jack's done to get Cassie, but it had a lot of ground to cover, so I guess it's okay. 

Around 30 or 40% I closed it and read another book. I didn't like how it went and I was getting annoyed at the characters, so I thought I could read it at another time.

**SPOILER WARNING** skip and continue to next paragraph if you don't want spoilers

I was absolutely annoyed at Jack. I was infuriated at the time when he was telling the story of how drunk he was and was starting to like the girl in the bar. He tells himself he's really drunk, but he didn't leave. No, he continued to drink with his friends, accepting the shots they were giving him. Stupid right? In my mind I was going 'no way, once he cheats, the story ends. I cannot accept the cheating' and I really could not at that point. Oh and get this, little miss one-night-stand got pretend pregnant, Jack marries her, he finds out it was fake and the girl wanted to get pregnant for real, breaks up with her and goes back to Cassie. See what I mean?

***CONTINUE HERE***

The time I decided to read the book again, I decided to play along and tried to imagine and feel what Cassie was feeling. It was absolutely hard and I pretty much forced myself to continue reading. Maybe it's just me. I do cannot tolerate cheating, especially when the story is about that one true love you look for. If you were happy with your one true love, you don't cheat, you don't need any other girl to fill her place at all, but no, in this book I see feelings that resemble it, not embody the idea. 

I have to say though that there were some parts that made me smile or chuckle. Jack definitely had these cute ideas about what to do to or for Cassie. I thought the characters were weak though and I am unsure if their good points surpassed the bad ones though. If the author wanted her readers to feel annoyed with her characters then she did a good job at it.

I have to say though that it was an okay read. If you know how to look over some of the things I've mentioned earlier, then I think you'd give it more stars. I can't deny how I kind of felt their love for one another though. J. Sterling made my heart ache and feel the pain Cassie felt and I hated and liked it. It was pure torture and I enjoyed it. In the end, even though I am having mixed feelings about it, I want to continue to read the series and I don't know if it was because I wanted to torture myself more or if it was because there was something in the story that makes me want to read more even though I was frustrated and infuriated at it before. I don't know what this author's trick is, but it worked on me somehow. 

★★★½ ~~~  3.5 Stars

Publisher: Unknown - 2:15 AM

Book Review: Killing Sarai by J.A. Redmerski

Killing Sarai (In the Company of Killers #1)
~1st Person POV

Amazing! It summarizes my thoughts about the book and how I felt after reading it. I've actually just finished reading the book and I couldn't hep but do this now. I was supposed to put up a different blog post today for another book, but I decided to write one about this instead. This book involves several problems with the economy and human beings in general, but it had me hooked and wanting more. 

Synopsis copied from Amazon:
"Sarai was only fourteen when her mother uprooted her to live in Mexico with a notorious drug lord. Over time she forgot what it was like to live a normal life, but she never let go of her hope to escape the compound where she has been held for the past nine years.

Victor is a cold-blooded assassin who, like Sarai, has known only death and violence since he was a young boy. When Victor arrives at the compound to collect details and payment for a hit, Sarai sees him as her only opportunity for escape. But things don't go as planned and instead of finding transport back to Tucson, she finds herself free from one dangerous man and caught in the clutches of another.

While on the run, Victor strays from his primal nature as he succumbs to his conscience and resolves to help Sarai. As they grow closer, he finds himself willing to risk everything to keep her alive; even his relationship with his devoted brother and liaison, Niklas, who now like everyone else wants Sarai dead.

As Victor and Sarai slowly build a trust, the differences between them seem to lessen, and an unlikely attraction intensifies. But Victor's brutal skills and experience may not be enough in the end to save her, as the power she unknowingly holds over him may ultimately be what gets her killed.

This is their story..."

This is not your typical damsel in distress story. Sarai has been scarred for a long time and she has certain qualities that make me believe in her and the story more. The first being Sarai's somewhat acceptance and conformance to her captor, the notorious drug lord. I see her as a brave woman who did what she has to do to survive, and I admired her strength the whole time. She has her break down moments which are of course understandable and I love it cause her thoughts make me feel 'how human' she really is. I felt the characters in this book and I got into it terribly so that I did not look at the time once.

I also enjoyed getting into Victor's head, to understand how his head works, and I believed it. His struggles and second thoughts had me holding onto him for more. I wanted to shake him out of it and tell him to just fall in love with the girl, but aside from I can't, I don't want to. You don't get the 'sparks flying and everything just turns to mush' reaction. Instead, you get the thoughts of a human being who's murdered people but still has somewhat a conscience and a certain unknown feeling about a girl who needs his help. I believed it, I loved it and I wouldn't have it any other way. I enjoyed how he broke some of his rules or norms while still having that guard, that protective wall around him.

The two of them are well developed and have a sense of realism. The plot was well thought of and I found it hard to expect what will happen next. Even though the end was different from what I'd usually want it to be, I'm satisfied. The character development is to be expected, but I enjoyed the way it was carried out. There isn't a part I wish I could change. You'd feel annoyed or mad at some of the characters, but it just makes the whole book believable. You can't like everyone, included in the book, You are supposed to feel the emotions they feel, feel their pain when they are suffering and be filled with enlightenment when they have an epiphany. I think one of the author's most important goals is to make the reader feel what his/her characters feel and to take hold of your imagination and bring you to another world where his/her book is your reality. I believe J.A. Redmerski accomplished this with her book. I look forward to reading Reviving Izabel, the second book of the series and more books from this wonderful author.

☆☆☆☆☆ ~ 5 Stars Publisher: Unknown - 8:29 PM

Book Review: The Mighty Storm by Samantha Towle

The Mighty Storm [Storm Series #1]

~1st Person POV

The Mighty Storm is definitely a book to read! It was engaging even though the author's writing was simple. I have previously acquired this book and to be honest, at first I just skipped through chapters. I was just checking out what was happening. I've read some chapters completely and even though I barely know what happened in the preceding chapters it managed to make me cry. I regret doing so now that I read it from the start. Unfortunately it no longer made me drop a few tears. I was still feeling their pain though and boy was I hooked. 

The Mighty Storm is about two best friends who were apart for 12 years. Trudy is a music journalist who one day had the opportunity to interview his former best friend and first love Jake Wethers. Jake is a famous sexy rock star who also owns the label he's signed with. Unfortunately, he is known to be a womanizer and had previous problems with drugs. It all gets confusing for Tru when old feelings reappear and leave her questioning her current relationship with Will. Will she keep business away from pleasure? Or blur the lines between the two?

Oh I just enjoyed reading this book. Even though I skipped through chapters before, I really did enjoy reading this. Especially when they experienced their "break-up moment". Oh it broke my heart again! I've read that part before, but it still managed to hurt me! Definitely an 'angsty' book. Well don't you love these books too? If you are like me and love the drama, this book is for you. It's not too angsty though no worries. It's just enough to make your tears fall for a while.

*SPOILER WARNING* There were some parts that did turn me off.
I wasn't feeling it when Jake wants Tru to speak in Spanish when they were making love. Maybe it's just me, but I didn't think it was sexy at all. Maybe it's because I can't imagine it being said in a sexy manner with a Spanish accent. I mean no offense at all to anyone. I'm just bad with trying to play out an accent in my mind. I really do find the Spanish language interesting as well as the way they speak, but I can't make myself have one in my imagination. I suck at it, but I did try. 

Continue Here~~
Anyway, this book will show you some of the real problems that come with being famous. It also shows you the life of a rock star, the drugs, sex and the money. I was honestly undecided if I was to read it before since I don't really like the idea of cheating, but this book got me hooked and I'm happy I read it. Also, I was a little annoyed at how insecure Tru was at the beginning and how she keeps thinking Jake doesn't see her as sexy and all that, even though the way it was written it was obvious Jake liked her. I'll be reading the sequel, which I also skipped through before, but I hope this gets me crying! Oh I will not skip through chapters again! I learned my lesson

★★★★½ ~~~ 4.5 Stars

If you already want more, here's the link to book two:
Wethering The Storm [Storm #2] Publisher: Unknown - 4:23 AM

The Billionaire's Seduction by Olivia Thorne

I recently finished the Book Review for Book 1 in the Billionaire's Seduction Series. It's called All That He Wants and to see my book review, kindly click here. This series has very short books. To be able to complete the actual story you would have to read all the books. The first one barely got into it, and I hope it will get better.

The Billionaire's Seduction Series Reading Order:
1. All That He Wants
2. All That He Desires
3. All That He Demands
4. All That He Requires

Volume 2: The Billionaire's Seduction
All That He Loves

 

Synopsis for Book 1

Lily Ross was having another miserable day at work when tall, dark, and stunningly handsome walked in. 
When she's least expecting it, mysterious Connor Brooks turns Lily's world upside down and plunges her into a torrid, passionate love affair that might just ruin her life... or save it.  Publisher: Unknown - 2:25 AM

Book Review: All That He Wants by Olivia Thorne

All That He Wants (The Billionaire's Seduction Part 1)  FREE

~1st Person POV

Short and funny read.This is the first book of "he wants" series. I enjoyed reading the book, but I am disappointed that it's one of those books that looks like an excerpt from a novel. It shouldn't have ended the way it did. This one is free, but the following books aren't really cheap. In my opinion, they are too expensive, especially since they would be as short as the first book. It's like when you want to buy a new outfit, but all you got was a new pair of shoes. Yes, you may have pretty new shoes, but you can't just wear shoes for an outfit, you need clothes and accessories too. Check it out, since it's free and see if it's your cup of tea.

***SPOILER WARNING*** Don't like? continue with the next paragraph

I just hated the end of this book. Basically, Lily met Connor, they had 'fun' in the office, and the time Connor was about to go he ask Lily to come with him. She has her internal debates but goes anyway. The End. It was so short I just got annoyed, even though I did like the book. The book is a part of a full length novel.

**I'll try to be as vague as I can since there isn't much to tell.
The story is about Lily Ross and Connor Brookes. Lily meets Connor when she was still in the office one late night. They talk, there's attraction, you get the idea.

Lily was the usual heroine in stories, she's beautiful, she thinks she's average and a tame or at least normal unimpressive sex life. I liked Lily though, she was smart, had a personality and she was funny too. Connor on the other hand keeps on making me chuckle. He has this playful personality matched with smarts and good looks. The story started and I was hesitating a bit since it started out like a flash back, then it was made to look like it was in the present tense. It was picking up slowly, then I started to enjoy Lily's comments on some things. It does have it 'steamy' moment. 

★★★½ ~~~ 3.5 Stars

It was a nice book, but it was short. It gets funny and hot, but I kept needing more.  Overall, I'm just annoyed it was too short. *sighs* ~xo Publisher: Unknown - 1:28 AM

Her Russian Protector Reading Order

Hi Everyone! I wanted to share the Reading order for the Her Russian Protector Series by Roxie Rivera. I made a book review for the first book Ivan, just click the link here.

I enjoyed the first novella. I haven't read the entire series yet, but it's on my TBR list. Overall an okay read. I wonder if the other characters though will pique my interest more. I have yet to see and I'll share once I can, but here's the Reading Order and Amazon link for everyone.

Her Russian Protector Series
1.   Ivan
2.   Dmitri [Full Length Novel]
3.   Yuri
3.5 A Very Russian Christmas
4.   Nikolai
5.   Sergei

Scroll Down for The Synopsis of the books.

Synopsis: Book 1

Desperate to find her sister, Erin goes to the only man in Houston who can help her--Ivan Markovic. The intimidating, tattooed Russian operates one of the most elite mixed-martial arts training centers in the world but it's his shadowy past and reputed connections with Houston's underworld that interest her most.

To find her sister, she'll need the help of her big, scary Russian protector--but asking for help from a man like Ivan carries a steep price, one that might just include her heart.

Synopsis: Book 2

Refusing to lose her brother to the violent Hermanos street gang, Benny turns to Dimitri, the dead sexy Russian who lives in the apartment above her family's bakery. He's the only man tough enough to get through to Johnny and save him from a life in prison--or worse.

There's nothing Dimitri won't do for Benny, even if it means dealing with her troublemaking brother. He quickly realizes that it's not just Johnny and his thug friends that pose a threat to Benny. A shady real estate developer needs to buy her bakery to secure a multi-million dollar deal and he'll stop at nothing to make her sell.

Threatened from all sides, Benny finds safety in Dimitri's strong arms--and in his bed. Her big, sexy Russian has no intention of ever letting her go--and he'll brave the fires of hell before he lets anyone harm her.

Reader's Note: Dimitri is an incredibly passionate man with a dominant streak--and Benny is only too happy to indulge his need for a little...restraint.

Synopsis: Book 3

While clawing her way out of Houston's worst neighborhood, Lena vowed to never let any man have power over her. After a lifetime of broken promises from her criminal father and a mother who abandoned her, Lena believes that love makes you vulnerable. She's never been tempted to test that belief...until Yuri.

Sexy as sin and with a dark reputation, Russian billionaire Yuri Novakovsky survived a miserable childhood of poverty and neglect to ascend the pinnacle of success. He enjoys the perks of his massive wealth without much thought to the consequences...until Lena.

When Lena's father and cousin blunder into an international art theft operation, Yuri seizes his chance to be her protector. But when past misdeeds catch up with him and threaten Lena's safety, Yuri puts her love and trust in him to the test.

He'll prove he's the man she needs--a man she can trust and depend upon--one sensual, wicked kiss at a time.

Synopsis: Book 3.5

Featuring nine sexy, flirty stories, this holiday-themed collection from the Her Russian Protector series allows readers to revisit favorite couples and meet new love interests. It includes the following tales:



It's A Wonderful Life (DIMITRI)

The Luxury Sleigh Ride (ALEXEI)

From Russia, With Love, (VASYA)

All I Want For Christmas (NIKOLAI)

Nine Ladies Dancing (KOSTYA)

Toys for Tots (DANILA)

My Favorite Things (YURI)

Five Golden Rings (IVAN)

A Bright, New Beginning (SERGEI)

Synopsis: Book 4

After a brush with death as a juvenile delinquent, Vivian swore she'd never stray across that line again--but there's just one problem with her plan to stay on the right side of the law. She's completely, irrevocably and unabashedly in love with Nikolai, the Russian mob boss who saved her life.

From the moment Vivian appeared in his life on that tragic April night, Nikolai felt himself inextricably bonded to her. She's the bright light in his dark world and the only thing that keeps him from sliding deeper into a life of crime and violence--a mobbed-up life he can't escape no matter how hard he tries.

After Vivian is ripped from his arms in a brazen blitz attack, Nikolai will stop at nothing to get her back--but rescuing her and keeping her safe in his arms isn't enough. Suddenly, Nikolai's only chance to protect Vivian is to do the one thing he vowed never to do.

He'll drag her deeper into his shadowy world and bind her to him forever. 

Because their tangled pasts are about to collide and the shockwave threatens to bring Houston's criminal underbelly to its knees...

Synopsis: Book 5

After losing her older brother in a violent robbery, wedding gown designer Bianca Bradshaw refuses to date men with criminal ties. She's never been tempted to cross that line--until Sergei.

The Russian behemoth works as an enforcer for mob boss Nikolai Kalasnikov and fights as his champion in the underground bare-knuckle circuit. Sergei is absolutely the last complication she needs in her life--but he's the only man who makes her body ache with desire.

And right now she needs his help.

When he learns some creep is bothering Bianca, Sergei Sakharov vows to protect her at all costs. He's been trying to get close to the plus-sized beauty for months but she rejects him at every turn. He's determined to show her that he's worth more as a man than his criminal connections.

But Sergei's loyalty to his family--both blood and criminal--put him at odds with the future he wants with Bianca. He has to choose--the woman he desperately loves or his loyalty to the man who saved his life.

Because the darkness of the underworld he inhabits is about to spill into Bianca's life and the hardest choice may be the only one that allows him to protect her... Publisher: Unknown - 5:57 PM

Book Review: Ivan [Her Russian Protector] by Roxie Rivera

Ivan [Her Russian Protector #1] [Currently FREE]
~1st Person POV & 3rd person POV

Hi Everyone! I just finished this book and unfortunately when I was reading it last night, I put it down and just went to sleep a bit early. I didn't really get into it as much as I wanted to. I decided to write about it now while it's still fresh. It's Free!

Tattooed Russian 'Hottie' who's operating well known mixed-martial arts training centers with a mafia history, how can you resist it? Just look at the cover, it's already tempting enough *winks*. Anyway, this is the first book in the Her Russian Protector Series. The following books focus on different characters. This first one is about Ivan and Erin. Overall a nice short read. It's one of those books you can read in between heavy books.

Erin is desperate to find her 'junkie' sister, which is why he turned to Ivan, a tattooed Russian who's operating mixed martial arts training centers with a shady background. When they first met, they had this spark I keep looking for when reading books.

"The instant we made contact an electric zing arced through me. From the flash in his eyes, he must have felt it too."

I was thinking that "Ooh! she's already got him!" and boy was I right! It turns out Ivan can't bear to see Erin look sad.

I like Erin because she's brave, selfless, patient, and she definitely has some "Oomph" in her. She has this feel where I, as a reader admire her and enjoy the story from her point of view. Ivan was a good guy with a bad past. He got into some shady things, but he isn't the typical bad boy. Maybe I can say he's a reformed bad boy? Anyway he's all soft and caring around Erin and it's cute, but I wish I could have seen him resist it. I just wish the story was longer and that it dwelled in some parts of the story. I would have liked to see him helping her, but trying to stay away from her emotionally for a bit, but then again, he's no bad boy and the story revolved on rescuing Erin's sister Ruby [Conflicting thoughts, conflicting emotions, sorry *sadface*].

"She was ready to go out there and face two gangs on her own rather than put another life in the crosshairs. He couldn't allow it. He wouldn't allow it" 

That part just got me to actually smile. [P.S. I'm trying to keep it as spoiler free as I can] Oh I wish it had Ivan's POV. I don't like reading books that are in a 3rd person POV. I just don't feel it as much as I do with the characters telling the story, with them describing their emotions and practically dragging you in with their experience. Maybe other people experience that with 3rd person POV books, just not me.

The story line and time frame is as you guessed it, short as well. I wish there were other books revolving around Ivan and Erin, so I could continue to read, maybe see a bit more action as well. Oh and in the climax, I was waiting for the big confrontation, how Ivan was going to keep Erin safe, but it didn't really go into it. I was disappointed *sadface*.

★★★½ ~~~~~ 3.5 Stars

Like I said, it's one of those in-between reads. It's nice, it's okay, but I wish there was more. I'm thinking of reading the 2nd Book, which is DMITRI and it's supposed to be longer than Ivan's book. We will see. ~xo Publisher: Unknown - 5:26 PM

Book review: Night Owl by M. Pierce

Night Owl [#1 The Night Owl Trilogy]
~First Person POV [dual]

It was a fun read and I found myself reading the whole thing in a few hours. It has that similar feel to Christian Grey from Fifty Shades of Grey, but Matt over here holds his own fort. He has a very dirty mouth *winks*. There are definitely very steamy scenes. I'd warn you though if you don't like reading things with bondage and stuff like that.

Let me start by saying wow! I had a lot of assumptions about how the story will progress, but I was surprised when it wasn't the case. I enjoyed how the story progressed and the realistic feel it entailed. 

Let me share the synopsis since it's short and gives you just enough to see the situation.

"At twenty-eight, Matt Sky has the perfect life. He has a beautiful girlfriend, a massive inheritance, and four national bestsellers -- all penned under his airtight alias, M. Pierce.

At twenty-seven, Hannah Catalano has a train wreck. Her boyfriend is a deadbeat and her job is abysmal.

Matt and Hannah meet online as writing partners. Their relationship is safe, anonymous, and innocent...

Until Matt sees a picture of Hannah.Hannah's picture sparks an attraction Matt is powerless to ignore. When circumstance brings Matt and Hannah together, the strangers begin a love story that's passionate, poignant, unforgettable, and unstoppable."

Matt has a girlfriend, whom I wish I heard more about, I don't know maybe the author would give her a few more situations in the second and third books[?]. I enjoy a good ex-girlfriend shows up and tries to rue the day. Anyway, he finds himself attracted to Hannah whom he met online. They are writing partners and Matt has a lot of rules to keep their identities private. She accidentally emails him using her main account, which has her photo. Boom~ Sparks,Attraction. You see how the story goes. 

Hannah on the other hand keeps on divulging information about herself to him. She even gave him her address! I don't really wanna give a lot of spoilers, but there are just some things that ~ugh! I enjoy sharing about.

Good for Hannah, she finally leaves her deadbeat boyfriend! Looks like Matt over here finally gave her that push to leave the deadbeat and her crappy job. She's back to her parent's place, but hey, she needs to start somewhere. I enjoyed reading her thoughts. First, because she was not overly insecure. I see how there are tons of books that portray the heroine as beautiful but very insecure that it gets annoying sometimes. I get that they would have second thoughts about themselves because of the oh so hot guy who makes their jaws drop, but I wish some books don't make the heroine's confidence and self esteem as weak as a twig. Hannah was just enough. I can see her as someone who really is in love. I believe her thoughts and the way she sees things.

Matt on the other hand holds my interest. Again M. Pierce created  believable character. His dirty mouth! I was annoyed of him at times and I rolled my eyes at how demanding he gets, but he has these really cute moments where you just fall for him[in a way]. I just love how he has this cute bunny! A grown man a bunny! He's not the generic super-hot-guy-who-has-this-big-ego-and-thinks-he-owns-the-world kind. He is anti-social and gets very anxious. Let's just say I like how imperfect he was made. 

The pacing was just right. The story gave me just enough of each scene. It didn't give me that "angsty-feel" since I enjoy torturing myself with books that just give you so much angst. It has it's painful moments, don't get me wrong, Matt made me feel all sad and it almost made me cry, but that was it, it almost made cry. I give Hannah here two thumbs up for putting up with what happened to Matt, and I'll give Matt a big hug, just cause I really liked him. Especially with the love for animals, including a stuffed toy *squeels*

★★★★½ ~~~~~ 4.5 Stars

P.S. The epilogue has quite a cliffhanger, so this is me warning you if you can't stand a cliffie. I had to go for it though since I was already 

xo

Publisher: Unknown - 11:33 PM