Book Review - Death Below Stairs

Hello-Hello! After an unexpected leave of absence, I finally posted a book review. Here is a sneak peak. Also don't be shy to click the button to read the full review.

Death Below Stairs - Review

When I requested this book, I only skimmed the book’s summery. I read “murder,” “Victorian Era,” and “young cook Kat [woman]” and that was enough for me to get hooked. You can imagine the surprise I had when I realized that there is more to the murder.

First, I fell in love with Kat’s voice as a character. Her background story was unexpected. She is an ordinary woman with an unfortunate past. The overall cast of characters was intriguing. We have the eccentric woman who was born in the wrong era, the nice and work-absorbed  mathematician, the rebel teenager, and the man with all the answers, Daniel.  Danial was a total mystery however, I have a slight idea about what he might be. No spoilers...

Why LA? Pourqoi Paris? Book Review

Hello-Hello! I finally put this review on the world wide web after an unexpected leave of absence from book blogging. I prioritized reading and  book pictures. ^^

Below is a sneak peak of my Why LA? Pourqoi Paris? review. 

Enjoy!

Have you ever been to Paris or LA? I can proudly say that I have. Only to Paris… And by being in Paris, I mean that I spent a maximum of an hour or two there. The majority of that time, I was in a bus station taking a break – bathroom and gas tank refill. It was a beautiful dark station with amazing bathrooms. Yes, I had to pay 50¢ (euros) for the toilet. Besides the station, I had the chances to see La Seine, the river that crosses Paris, and a few random buildings from the bus window. Now, you understand why I need to go back there?

Speaking of which, this book was a great catalyst to remember my love for France and French culture. With the American culture, I am well acquainted already. Wink-Wink. And regardless of my previous knowledge about these amazing cities, Diane Ratican’s travel guide poked my interest in them again...

The Diabolic by S.J. Kincaid aka The Roman Empire in Space

Book Synopsis

Nemesis is a Diabolic. Created to protect a galactic Senator's daughter, Sidonia. There's no one Nemesis wouldn't kill to keep her safe. But when the power-mad Emperor summons Sidonia to the galactic court as a hostage, there is only one way for Nemesis to protect Sidonia.
She must become her.
Now one of the galaxy's most dangerous weapons is masquerading in a world of corruption and Nemesis has to hide her true abilities or risk everything. As the Empire begins to fracture and rebellion looms closer, Nemesis learns that there is something stronger than her deadly force: the one thing she's been told she doesn't have - humanity. And, amidst all the danger, action and intrigue, her humanity might be the only thing that can save her, Sidonia and the entire Empire... The Diabolic - Goodreads

My Opinion

4/5 stars.

Cause of Science, I took one star. I will explain later in my review. Let's start with the positive, shall we? ^_^
This book was something. It got me intrigued from the very first chapter. It combined the very things I love most to read about space and Roman Empire. Two ingredients that should not work together like salt caramel ice cream or chocolate and salted pretzels but they do and they were so delicious to devour. 
The story is unpredictable. You think the plot is moving in one direction then the next thing you know... Surprise! You just got spun 180 degrees with the narrative moving in the opposite direction than you initially thought. 
There is an amazing cast of characters which keeps the action moving forward besides the politics rich driven plot. It was interesting to read how the Emperor tried to keep his place on the throne like a dictator by killing and suppressing progress. He was like a futuristic version of Nero. But let's not forget about the Queen mother. She was... worse than the Emperor himself. If you ever watched Game of Thrones, then you should be very familiar with Cersei's character and how vile she can be. Well, the Queen mother is Cersei's mirror image.  
Aside from the whole political drama, there is also the Diabolic mythology. Designed bodyguards ripped off of all their humanity and trained killing machines destined to protect only one person at all costs. They are feared by everyone and paradoxically enslaved by the very same people.
Watching Nemesis rediscovering herself was beautiful and frustrating. Beautiful because she tried to understand her feelings and humanity, a side of her she never got a chance to explore. And frustrating because there is me, the reader, attempting to understand Nemesis' inhuman ways and pointing the obvious while she needed time to see past those ways.
Like I said in the beginning, I took off a star mostly due to the science and, next, due to the very rushed ending. First, the science. The story tells us that Diabolics do not have lacrimal glands because they were designed not to cry. My question is: Then, how do Diabolics keep their eyes moist, clean, and infection free? So far, science says that the primary role of tears is not crying. They are just a tool used by the brain when showing distress to gain more sympathy from others. (Do not quote me on this but it's something like that :D). The author could have stick to the brain manipulation thing. It would had been more plausible in my opinion. I know. I know. By the end of the day, this is still a work of fiction but I still want my simple science to be accurate. ^^' The perks of being a science lover.
Second, the ending was a bit rushed and somewhat anticlimactic. I believe this was due to the uncertainty if it is going to be a standalone or a series. Which  it is understandable because the author wanted to give us a resolution just in case we are not going to get another book. And for that, I am also grateful.
All in all, I recommend this book if you are fond of space, ancient times, and politics. This was my cup of tea. Oh! The romance is good too. It fits perfectly into the narrative.

This is my sole opinion. ^_^   

PS - This is a wrap!

I hope you enjoyed this long promised review. Let me know what are your thoughts, feelings, and opinions in the comment section down below. All the images from My Opinion can be also found either on my Instagram or Deviant Art accounts.

Until next time, feel free to check out my latest posts I am back, readers! -->HERE<-- and Tarnished Crown Mini Book Review -->HERE<--.

Mini Book Review - Tarnished Crown by Erin Watt

Royals 3.5

Picture Source: Goodreads 

Book Synopsis

Standard Disclaimer: For those who you have not read the Royals books 1 to 3 be aware of spoilers ahead. 

This story happens after Twisted Palace following Savannah and Gideon's relationship. It tries to shine some light over what happened between the two of them in the past and how they are going to proceed foreword. Love. Tension. Drama. And all that shenanigan. Of course, things are not so simple and the past keeps saying "Hello" to the lover birds.

My Opinion

 2.00/5.00

I stay by GoodReads ratings. It was ok. I might be in the minority when I am saying this... I was disappointed. Within the first three books, we get this strong and independent image of Savannah to now be ruined by this installment. I get the feeling that this was done to serve the fandom, which is not automatically a bad thing, but it was not served right. It takes time and patience to rebuild a relationship which had been broken to such a degree. Gideon did not even learn from his past mistakes and he still has the tendency to repeat those mistakes. Savannah should learn to love herself more and keep her standards no matter what. To be sincere, I do not know what made these two fall in love in the first place.
And last, this book? novella? - it has 21 chapters which makes this work to pass as a book - needs more substance. It was a good cup of tea turned bad. 

This is my sole opinion. >_^

Original review on Goodreads.

PS

See you in my next post!! And in the mean time feel free to check out my latest Summer Book Tag and Miraculous Ladybug comic review, -->HERE<-- and -->HERE<--.

Miraculous: Tales of Lady Bug and Cat Noir: Akumatized Vol. 4 by Zag Entertainment, Cheryl Black, Nicole D'Andria

Ladybug and Cat Noir, the defenders of Paris, continue to face off against Hawk Moth and his akumatized victims. First they must fight Dark Cupid, whose heart gets broken on Valentine’s Day. Then they must survive Horrificator, a slimy monster that grows more powerful as it causes fear. Finally, the duo encounter Le Mime, whose powers may be just too real for them to handle! Collects MIRACULOUS #10-12  Miraculous: Tales of Ladybug and Cat Noir: Akumatized - Goodreads

My Opinion

4/5 stars

This was fun a read. It felt like watching the episodes all over again. You get the same amount of fun, adventure, and cuteness only it's in stop-motion this time. You read me right. Copy and paste. The same graphics with the same story lines. (Apparently, it is a popular thing nowadays.) For a fan of the show, like myself, this should not be a turn off. You saw the TV Show thus you know the content already. Sooo... I am a little biased in this review as you can see. 

Oops!  ^_^'

They did a great job with the transition process from motion-picture to paper. The dialogue is on point and the graphics are well arranged. As a reader, it was easy to follow the story through the lines of the characters.
"Aaand why did I take a star off," you ask. Well, I was expecting something different like some other stories added to the universe or the graphics to be more cartoon-ish - comic book style.
All in all, this was my cuppa tea. If you are looking for a fun and easy read, it might be yours too.

This is my sole opinion. ^_^

***I would like to thank you Netgalley and the publisher for providing a free copy of this comic book in exchange for an honest review. ***

P.S.

Feel free to leave your thoughts, feelings, and opinions in the comment section. You can also find my last book review -->HERE<-- and my last music post -->HERE<---.

See you in my next post!

A Lady's Code of Misconduct by Meredith Duran Book Five in the Rules for the Reckless Series

Book Synopsis

A DEAL WITH THE DEVIL...
Trapped in the countryside, facing an unwanted marriage and the theft of her fortune, Jane Mason is done behaving nicely. To win her freedom, she’ll strike a deal with the most dangerous man she knows—a rising star in politics, whose dark good looks mask an even darker heart.
...NEVER GOES TO PLAN.
The bitter past has taught Crispin Burke to trust no one. He’ll gladly help a lovely young heiress, provided she pays a price. Yet when a single mistake shatters his life, it is Jane who holds the key to his salvation. And in a world that no longer makes sense, Crispin slowly realizes that she may be the only thing worth fighting for... A Lady's Code of Misconduct - Goodreads

 

 

 

My Opinion

4.5/5 stars.

Love. Politics. History. Conspiracies. Conflicting morals. Deceit. Redemption. And hot-bad-boy guy with a secretly good heart... and a hot-good-of-heart girl with lots of brains and a rebellious spirit. There are lots of "and's" in my last sentence... I know.

Something I was not expecting in this story was the politics driven plot intertwined with a love story. Although, the surprising part is. That. I. Freaking. Loved. It. I was expecting to get bored and forced myself to finish the book. That was so not the case. It was exactly what I needed: A good romance story which is not too focused on the romance part. Oxymoron right there. 

The beginning is what hooked me up in the first place.  Not too fast and not too slow. Our beloved characters were in positions where they will do anything to get what they desire. This leads to an unlikely alliance to form between the desire of freedom and power which sparks the chances of a new beginning for our protagonists.

Jane and Crispin go through a fantastic character development. They realize that people are not completely good or evil. You just have to choose which side to use more but most importantly how to find a balance between the two. Speaking of character growth. I was not a big fan of acknowledging someone as being two persons in the same time. It was like the author was trying to say Crispin had a split personality... I understood where she was going with it... But it still felt a bit cringe worthy at times.

What I admired the most in this story was the sense of a real partnership between the main characters. And believe it or not is quite rare these days. It was not about sexual lust and how it can lead to a good relationship in the end... It was so much more than that. It was... How do you say it? Complicated. Yes. Complicated.

Of course, most people might get turned off by the plot focused on politics which is understandable if you are not a big politics fan - like myself, I could say. However, you might also surprisingly find yourself enjoying the book just... like myself. :D

All in all, I could proudly say that this was my cuppa tea. One of my all time favorites - romance section - I dare to say.

This is my sole opinion. ^_^

I would like to say thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for providing a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest opinion.    

Genre/Category: Adult, Historical Romance, Fiction, Politics, Mystery

Language: none to mild, maybe none

Sexual Content: well... heavy but within reason

Violence: moderate 

Drugs and Alcohol: mild to moderate 

P.S.

I would like to read your thoughts, feelings, and opinions about this book and if you want to read my last book review you can click --> HERE <-- or you can check my previous song pick post --> HERE <--.

See ya in my next post!

Vernal by Randi Cooley Wilson A Book with too Much Romance

Book Synopsis

Serena has a bright future etched in stone. 
Tristan has a dark past that haunts him. 
Together, they have a love that can never be.
Sheltered, and unable to escape her bloodline, Serena St. Michael has spent the last two years training at the Royal Protector Academy. Struggling with a dark past, Tristan Gallagher’s current assignment is to protect a lifetime of secrets. One chance encounter will change everything. Serena must decide if she will follow her heart, forsaking all she’s ever known and risking a future worse than non-existence. Tristan will break every rule to save Serena, even if he can’t keep her. In their world of darkness, one love will ignite an ancient war. When pasts collide with the present, and secrets are revealed, will love be enough? Or will one lie destroy it all?
When you’ve hidden behind a mask for so long, would you reveal yourself for love? Vernal, the first novel in The Royal Protector Academy series is a dangerously exciting and darkly romantic tale that will take your breath away. Vernal - Goodreads

My Opinion

2.75/5.00 Stars

I should just post my rough draft as it is because I am out of words. Ha-Ha-Ha!

Moving on to the actual review...

I requested this book from NetGalley a long time ago. The premise sounded promising but I got lost along the way. I had to face the same problem I usually find in books like this one. The romance took over the entire plot. :/

While reading Vernal, I learn that it is a spin off series starter. Nothing wrong with that; although, for a new comer like myself, things were not 100% clear. Little details were offered regarding the world and plot. From what is presented, the setting, the magic system and its background seemed interesting. And this is unfortunate because, just like the characters, the story had a lot of potential.

Speaking of characters... I thought there is going to be more about exploration and build up when the romance element entered the scene. As in, how the protagonists connect and try to figure out this inexplicable connection/attraction they feel about each other. Instead... Bam! Everything ruined by the sex. They spend more time talking about and being intimate than knowing each other. Then, that whole "I am super possessive and inexplicable jealous alpha male. Everything you do is wrong and I own you" and "I am a strong woman capable of anything but I cannot live without you and I am owned by you and you are the only male who can tame me" was not my style. They looked like decent characters and had good qualities here and there but.... In the end, they got overshadowed by the romance and nonexistent plot. Also, there was not a concrete reason why Serena is special and has to become the next ruler.

All in all this book was not for me. Like I use to say, this was not my cuppa tea because of too much sugar was added. It was not what I expected at all.

[I gave it such a high rating because it had enough to keep me entertained and not DNF (do not finish) it.]

This is my sole opinion. ^_^

I would like to say thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for providing a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.

Genre: New Adult, Paranormal Romance, Fantasy, Urban

Language: Heavy

Sexual Content: Heavy

Violence: Heavy

Drugs/Alcohol: Heavy

P.S. 

• You can check out my latest post -->HERE<--  

Mine, Forever and Always by Tammy L. Bailey - A short and Heart Aching Romance

Book Synopsis

Just shy of fifteen years old, and during a fake and impromptu wedding ceremony, Lily Scott married her best friend's brother, Henry Dalton.

It seemed harmless enough until he leaned in and whispered to her his true feelings, amorous words she has been unable to forget: Now you’re mine, forever and always. 

Unfortunately, growing up pulls them apart and transforms Henry into a pompous scoundrel. When they meet again at a house party hosted by Henry’s sister, will Henry remember his once faithful promise to Lily? Mine, Forever and Always - Goodreads 

My Opinion

5.00/5.00 stars

Just read it if you are into romance. This is a lovely story about the love of two people which has to pass the test of time and society. Life forced them to go on their separate ways regardless of what their hearts wanted. And, now, they meet each other again. There is angst and there is tension. Question is: Does the love between them still exists? Or is it just a beautiful memory of the past?
What can I say? The feelings... are so overwhelming. I do not have enough words to praise this novella. Despite it's length, we get a lot of content about the main characters and the other players in the story. It is a torturous, genuine love. Your heart will melt, ache, get butterflies, mushy, and - finally - teary. I do not want to say too much about the plot cause... spoilers. Obviously! The author has a beautiful writing because everything floated nicely. No boring part. No excessive descriptions. Right words were used to ensure the reader that there are a solid background to the narrative and well-rounded characters which are not just flat instruments of yielding a romance. I wished this was a full novel because there is so much room for expanding and exploring; although, I am afraid it might cut the beauty of the novella in some parts. 
Sometimes the  short length might give a writing work a feel of unresolved or anticlimactic endings. Like, there has to be more to it than what's already published. Thus, I understand why some readers may give this one a lower rating. But for me, a strong impression on my mood while reading it's enough sometimes. Not every good piece has to be lengthy. The information is there only not in so many words as you may like it to be.     
Now, I am waiting patiently for the next story in the series. The author promised a new story in the future regarding other characters who were introduced in the book. She said that time is of the essence for her inspiration to come and the final product be good.
This was definitely my cup of tea. And, it might be yours too. Do not get mislead by the cover. 
Ah... Just read it! 

This is my sole opinion. ^_^

I would like to say thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for providing a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.

Genre: Adult, Romance, Historical Romance, Regency, Novella

Language: none to mild (most likely none)
Sexual content: moderate to heavy-ish
Violence: none to mild (mentioned)

Drugs/Alcohol: none to mild (mentioned)

P.S. 

• You can check out my latest post -->HERE<--

Luck Is No Lady by Amy Sandas Fallen Ladies One or The Book Where "Smart" Has a Broad Definition

Book Synopsis

"You should not have kissed me," she replied breathlessly.
"I do a lot of things I shouldn't. It does not mean I won't do them again."
Gently bred Emma Chadwick always assumed she'd live and die the daughter of a gentleman. But when her father's death reveals a world of staggering debt and dangerous moneylenders, she must risk her good name and put her talent for mathematics to use, taking a position as bookkeeper at London's most notorious gambling hell. Surrounded by vice and corruption on all sides, it is imperative no one discovers Emma's shameful secret or her reputation-and her life-will be ruined.
But Roderick Bentley, the hell's sinfully wealthy owner, awakens a hunger Emma cannot deny. Drawn deep into an underworld of high stakes gambling and reckless overindulgence, she soon discovers that in order to win the love of a ruthless scoundrel, she will have to play the game...and give in to the pleasure of falling from grace. Luck Is No Lady - Goodreads

My Opinion

4.5/5 stars.

I picked up this book last year. I read a good portion of it then I put it down. Why, you ask? Because:

1. School;
2. I've lost interest.

During the school time, a slow burning romance is not a good way to entertain yourself. You need adrenaline. Action. Something that keeps you going. (So that is my excuse.) In other words, I was not in the mood anymore.

Putting my reasons aside, I was 100% sure I will return to this book. And not surprisingly, I did. Oh, boy! I so enjoyed the story. It was a historical, regency romance just up my alley. The romance does not monopolize the narrative and we have conflict. Yes! Three noble orphaned girls in need of money in times when a good marriage is the only solution for young women. Deceased parent with gambling addiction who caused those three girls to be in danger from a bookie. A noble bastard who owns a "gambling hell" becomes a means to an end for the girls to get out of dept. The oldest of the sisters risks her family name and reputation in an era where status is everything to save her sisters. Falling in love is out of question but it may happen in the darkest of times. 

A perfect recipe for an intriguing story despite the cheesy cover. (Please, ignore it!)

The romance is slow burning. Tension is built up for our characters. We have chemistry at first. Then, we have  period of flirting, personal exploring, and creating trust. No dominant and overly exaggerated alpha male. No weak female who appears to be strong only because the author tells us so. The main characters feel like real people, relatable people. Both are strong and weak in their own ways. They complete each other like puzzle pieces.

I realized lately that I need meaning and story in my romances not jut plain romance and steam. This was definitely my cup of team. I am going to follow the author and continue the series. 

Yes, this is still a read for a more mature audience. 

This is my sole opinion. ^_^

Genre: Adult, Romance, Historical Romance, Regency 

Language: mild to moderate
Sexual content: heavy
Violence: moderate

Drugs/Alcohol: moderate

P.S. 

• You can check out my latest post -->HERE<--
• Or if you want more romance book recommendations, you can click -->HERE<--    

To Tempt a Viscount by Naomi Boom Entangled Nobility One or A Romance in Need of More Romance

 

Book Synopsis

Lady Laura Rosing knows two things: first, she will marry for love, and second, she detests rakes. When she meets Lord Gavin Farris, she understands immediately that he fails both her criteria, and worse yet, he is an absolute cad who refuses to leave her be.
Lord Farris has always appreciated women and cannot understand why Lady Laura is so resistant to his charms. While pretty, she is not his usual type, but something about her intrigues him. Much to his chagrin, he finds himself desperately in love with her, but he may be too late. His adamant refusal to marry just might have planted her firmly in the arms of another. To Tempt a Viscount - Goodreads 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

My Opinion

3.75/5 stars.
This book was something different than my usual Romance-Regency novel. I like Laura and Lord Gavin. They were the typical protagonists you normally find in these books. The girl is an innocent debutante who separates from the others through her unique beauty and wit. The guy is a rake who does not believe in love until he meets the heroine then he has a change of heart. (Pun intended.)
Since these are my favorite tropes... I am not going to complain. For these things alone, I will give this book a green card.
The beginning was promising. We have cousin Eleanor who pretends to be a dove but she is a viper instead. I did not know how Laura could tolerate her throughout the whole book. I called her act and disliked - since hate is such a strong word - her from the moment she was introduced. Laura and Gavin have a wonderful chemistry. And the setting is the perfect place for romance to bloom.
After the tragic moment which - in general - separates the protagonists in all romance novel, things stared to slow down a little. It was not necessarily bad because we get to know potential great - and probably future - characters like Alexa, Lord Collins, and Lord Farris' mother. The lack of major interaction between the love interests was unexpected and a bit disappointing. Reading about their genuine attraction, I was expecting more steam... way more steam than the author offered. Surprisingly, I still had the drive to know what happens next.
Overall the story was done nicely with a good writing. Well... probably with a few awkward phrases here and there. For a debate novel, this was pretty good. I can see that the author has great potential to grow. That is why I gave such a high star rating, for encouragement. I cannot wait to read the next book in the series.
To Tempt a Viscount was my cup of tea with the tea a little under brewed.

This is my sole opinion. ^_^

I would like to say thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for providing a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.

Genre: Adult, Romance, Historical Romance, Regency
Language: none to mild
Sexual content: mild to moderate
Violence: none to mild
Drugs/Alcohol: none to mild



 

Truth or Date by Susan Hatler, Book Two in the Better Date than Never Series

Book Synopsis

Gina Hall is done with men who won’t commit. Ten years waiting for her ex to propose wasted her time. Never again. When her friend Kristen starts a game of Truth or Dare, she dares Gina to go on a date with Ethan, who’s amazing and total marriage material.
As Gina plans the going away party for office playboy Chris Bradley, she spontaneously initiates a game of Truth or Dare with him. When his turn comes around, he dares Gina to pose as his girlfriend to help get a flirty colleague off his back. Gina finds playing couple with Chris way too much fun.
Even though Gina and Chris are pretending, their relationship begins to feel painfully real. Fearing she might be falling for another fly-by man, Gina must focus on Ethan so she doesn’t make the same dating mistakes all over again. Truth or Date - Goodreads

My Opinion

3.65/5 stars.
This is another Susan Hatler's romance short story or novella. I got it for free from Amazon and you know I cannot say "No" to free books. Or maybe no? Whatever, now you know. I looove free books.
Beck to the actual review.
In a few words, the story was cute, funny, romancy, and relatable.
The writing was easy to follow and made the events to flow nicely. On the other hand, the narrative was quite rushed due to the short length of the book.
So far, this is my favorite Susan Hatler story.
Are you in a mood for a quick romance with no excessive steam and just the feels? If yes, this might be your cuppa tea.
Oh! Since it is asecond book in a series, spoilers for the previous book might be obvious. Although, I believe it can be read as a standalone too.

This is my sole opinion. ^_^

Feel Free to check out my other reviews on books written by Susan Hatler: Susan Hatler-A Christmas Kiss and Susan Hatler-Shaken.

Genre: Adult, Romance, Short Stories, Contemporary
Language: mild
Sexual content: mild
Violence: none
Drugs/Alcohol: moderate

Confess by Colleen Hoover The Book with the Art of Confession

Book Synopsis

Don’t miss #1 New York Times bestselling author Colleen Hoover’s beloved novel about risking it all for love—now an Awestruck original series, coming soon to go90.com and the go90 app, available for iOS or Android.
Auburn Reed is determined to rebuild her shattered life and she has no room for mistakes. But when she walks into a Dallas art studio in search of a job, she doesn’t expect to become deeply attracted to the studio’s enigmatic artist, Owen Gentry.
For once, Auburn takes a chance and puts her heart in control, only to discover that Owen is hiding a huge secret. The magnitude of his past threatens to destroy everything Auburn loves most, and the only way to get her life back on track is to cut Owen out of it—but can she do it?
With her moving and compelling prose, Hoover “will pull heartstrings in this second-chance love story” (Booklist). Confess - Goodreads

 

 

My Opinion

3.50/5 stars.

This is the second book by Colleen Hoover I've read - my first being Ugly Love. To be honest, I picked up this book because I heard that there is going to be a TV show coming up. I saw the first two episodes and I was hooked to the story; thus, I thought I should give the book a try. (Plus the leading actors looked good together.)

So... I read the book after I saw the TV show and I do not regret that. In my opinion, the book and the TV show complete each other... But enough about the show and let's talk about the book.

My overall impression... It is an unique story and real but not flawless. The story flowed nicely. The characters fit together splendidly driving the action of the story quite well. Owen and Auburn have a great chemistry; although, chemistry is not the equivalence love. From Owen's perspective, I was able to understand the romance by the end of the book due to past circumstances - and if you read the book, you know what I am talking about. Not so much from Auburn's perspective. From her point of view, Owen sometimes was quite the creep. Do not get this wrong. I liked him. He was the sweet, good, and honorable guy. The things he said sometimes to Auburn, without her knowing what connected them, should have made her run away a little...

I understood what the author tried to do but she relied to much on the "fate" concept and not so much on the power to make a decision, to take action in your life. That left the story unresolved - literary - and underdeveloped. It felt rushed leaving plenty of room for a novella or a second book... Which... I wouldn't mind if it means that I will have a better resolution.

Despite the sad parts, there are a lot of funny scenes too.

After Ugly Love, I was expecting more from Colleen Hoover since she has such a beautiful writing style.

Overall, this was my cup of tea. And, if it happens for you to be a fan of Colleen's let me know what is your opinion on this book, the Confess TV show, and her other books.

 

This is my sole opinion. ^_^

 

Genre: Romance, New Adult, Contemporary, Fiction

Language: moderate

Sexual content: heavy

Violence: moderate to heavy

Drugs/Alcohol: moderate to heavy-ish

 

P.S.

Feel Free to check out my Confess show info -->HERE<--while admiring the TV show inspired book cover below.

Marrying the Wrong Earl by Callie Hutton, Lords and Ladies in Love Two

Book Synopsis

Lady Arabella Danvers is happy with her life just the way it is. She is free to be herself and take care of broken and abandoned animals. Her mother is desperate for her to marry, and has decided to take things into her own hands. There is just one little problem with her plan.
Nash, the Earl of Clarendon has determined it is time to take a wife. He has selected a woman to whom he intends to propose. However, the annoying Lady Arabella has stumbled into his life at the wrong time, and in the wrong place.
But he of all people should know if Lady Arabella is involved, plans will go awry.  Marrying the Wrong Earl - Goodreads

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

My Opinion

3.5/5 stars.
This book has the classic elements you will find in an historical regency romance/erotica. Arabella is a smart girl with different interests than the society expects her to have. Of course, everybody is against her odd hobby and she is "shake it off" Taylor Swift style (that dreadful song you cannot "Shake it off" once you are forced to listen a million times :D). Nash... Well, he is the metaphorical pain in the bottom. I think I spent more time being angry with him throughout the book than admiring his good side. In my opinion, the author spent to much time on the couple's fights than their chemistry. I am not afraid to say that most of the time Arabella ended up looking like the oppressed and Nash like the oppressor. A lot of you would say that I should think about the society's mindset during those times etc. I know but reality is different in most of the cases than the people who record history let us believe. 
I liked the characters separately than together.

The character development happened suddenly rather than smoothly.
Arabella was the reason I continued reading the book until the end and I was glad. That ending melted my heart. I wanted more from it. How Nash and Arabella clicked and realized what's important... Oh! I wanted the book to be longer.
This story was like an overly bitter cup of green tea. I loved it at times and it angered me at other times. And I still have that bitter after taste because of some scenes which reflected a real reality. (Yes, I am aware of my repetition. It was intentional.)
In terms of my recommendation, I wished I had read more books by this author to make a comparison. Although, I got the feeling that she has better stories up her sleeves because of her good writing style.
Feel free to make your own impression on the book.

This is my sole opinion. ^_^


I would like to say thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for providing a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.

Genre: Adult, Romance, Historical Romance, Regency
Language:  moderate
Sexual content: heavy
Violence: none to moderate
Drugs/Alcohol: moderate

  

 

Cheater by Rachel Van Dyken With More Depth than the Title and Synopsis Let You Believe

Book Synopsis

Lucas Thorn wasn’t born a cheater. All it took was a single moment—say, a certain disastrous incident on the night before his wedding—and boom. Reputation destroyed forever and always. So now he owns it. He has a lady friend for every night of the week (except Sundays—God’s day and all), and his rules are simple: No commitments. No exceptions.
But a certain smart-mouthed, strawberry blonde vixen is about to blow that all to hell.
Avery Black has never forgiven Lucas for cheating on her sister. And suddenly being forced to work with him is pretty much a nightmare on steroids. Of course, it does afford her the opportunity to make his life as difficult as possible. But no good revenge scheme comes without payback. Because he didn’t become the Lucas Thorn without learning a few things about women.
Now Avery’s lust for vengeance has turned into, well, lust. And if Lucas stops cheating, it’s definitely not because he’s falling in love… Cheater - Goodreads

 

My Opinion

3.65/5 stars

Are you in a mood for a quick romance? Well... This is one of them. And do not be fooled by the synopsis, there is so much depth to the story. Ahhh... I want to use "and" again... I think the synopsis together with the title are kind of misleading . Yes, the guy practices polygyny (= one male having more than one female mate). Yes, he cheated (observe the past tense here). Also, all his "lady friend for every night of the week" gave their consent for this type of relationship and knew from the beginning that there are other women. Oddly enough - in a good way -  Lucas wants companionship and offers companionship to these women, not just sex.

This story is more about two people who, by fate, meet again and reconnect. They receive a second chance to confront the truth about their past and feelings for each other. 

What bothered me the most were the parents. Lucas and Avery were unable to say no to them. And they were so... soooo... or how the naughty side of me wants to actually say it... ANNOYING as f. I say no to my mom even when she is telling me to eat bread even though I am masticating bread in that very moment. :)) I value my mother's opinion very very very much but I will be unable to accept her to control me the same way Lucas and Avery are controlled by their parents.

And Lucas' parents! I am only going to say this: Come! On! He is your son. He is more important than your BFF's.

Also, take in consideration that they, all the parents, appear briefly through the book and are used as a tool to drive the story to an end. 

Other than that, they seemed nice enough. (^_^) :D

Ha-Ha-Ha!

I liked this story a lot. It was sexy, sweet, and bitter due to so much heartache. Cheater came this close - B L A N K  S P A C E  B L A N K  S P A C E - to reach the complexity of Gabriel's Inferno (Goodreads) by Sylvain Reynard.

This was my cuppa tea.

 

This is my sole opinion. ^_^

I would like to say thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for providing a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.

Genre: New Adult, Contemporary, Romance
Language: mild to heavy
Sexual content: heavy
Violence: mild
Drugs/Alcohol: moderate