Review: Come Home by Lisa Scottoline

Title: Come Home
Author: Lisa Scottoline
Publisher: St. Martins Press
Published: OUT NOW!

Summary: Jill Farrow is a typical suburban mom who has finally gotten her and her daughter's lives back on track after a divorce. She is about to remarry, her job as a pediatrician fulfills her---though it is stressful---and her daughter, Megan, is a happily over-scheduled thirteen-year-old juggling homework and the swim team.
But Jill’s life is turned upside down when her ex-stepdaughter, Abby, shows up on her doorstep late one night and delivers shocking news: Jill’s ex-husband is dead. Abby insists that he was murdered and pleads with Jill to help find his killer. Jill reluctantly agrees to make a few inquiries and discovers that things don’t add up. As she digs deeper, her actions threaten to rip apart her new family, destroy their hard-earned happiness, and even endanger her own life. Yet Jill can’t turn her back on a child she loves and once called her own.
Come Home reads with the breakneck pacing of a thriller while also exploring the definition of motherhood, asking the questions: Do you ever stop being a mother? Can you ever have an ex-child? What are the limits to love of family? (Goodreads)

Review: I used to be hooked on author Lisa Scottoline's mystery series Rosato & Associates- they were fast paced and kept every reader on their toes. So when Lisa started writing a little different genre of novels I knew that I had to give them a try because I just loved the way she wrote; but at the same time I was skeptical because it was a "change." Since she started writing her newest genre, there hasn't been a Lisa Scottoline book that I haven't enjoyed- and let me tell you why! She pours so much truth in reality into her books that it gets a reader thinking about his or her life and how these events in this book relate, or don't. 


Scottoline knows how to thrill her audience! She writes mystery after all and she's damn good at it! In Come Home there are various paths in which the reader expects the plot to take a turn and yet it veers into a different direction, another opening to solve what is believed to be a murder. But I believe what's most appealing, especially to the female audience, isn't necessarily the plot that is taking place in this book and the murder that is trying to be solved, but rather the family situation. Lisa gives readers a look into a home where everything is now shook up due to an ex- stepdaughter, Abby coming back into their lives. Jill feels torn into two when she knows that her fiance doesn't want anything to do with Abby and wants Jill to stay out of the mess, but Jill can't help but feel that mothers instinct and want to love and protect her "daughter". So it isn't necessarily a choice for Jill, she already knows in her mind what she's going to do- every mother knows what they'd do if that was their daughter, blood or not. But it's the readers choice to agree with her, or choose differently. And I think that is what ties me into these books, because I think past the plot, and dig deeper into what these characters are going through- the way that Lisa writes, it isn't hard at all to pretend as if you are in that exact same situation! 


I'm going to give Come Home a 3.5 stars. I really enjoyed this book and I think if anyone is looking for a good fiction book with truth- these are it! Family, love, and boundaries are just the basis of what Come Home covered- every family goes through a rough patch whether it's an ex-stepdaughter that comes back or just a misunderstanding, but bottom line is each emotion that Jill was feeling and the events that were taking place we all go through those motions at some time in our lives. Its nice to be able to read delve deep into a characters mind and see reality, even if it is very fictional ;) 

Be sure to check out my blog post from Lisa Scottoline's Signing for Come Home here!!  

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Q&A With Author Rebecca Serle; Author Of When You Were Mine,

Hey Guys So Today I have the Awesome Rebecca Serle author this When You Were Mine answering some questions for us! Check Out my review for When You Were Mine HERE

What inspired you to write WYWM?

The idea of telling Rosaline's story came to me when I was going through a heartbreak of my own--- I knew this was the book I had to write. I know so many girls have had someone pull a Romeo on them. I wrote it for all of us!

How does it feel to have your first novel published?

It's pretty remarkable. This was really the only professional goal I ever had (I'm terrible at just about everything else) so to realize it is just amazing. I'm really, really lucky.

If When you were mine was made into a movie what actor/actress would you love to see play the characters?

We are casting the film right now, actually! I think the actors up for the roles are pretty perfect :) You can read a bit more about the film HERE 

If Rosalie and Charlie were stuck on a desert island together what 3 things each do you think they would bring?

Rosaline:

1) A journal so she could write--- letters to Rob, probably.

2) Sunscreen--- she's got light skin!

3) A cell phone. Rosaline is pragmatic. I think she'd want to figure out how to get out of there.

Charlie:

1) Music so they could dance.

2) Make-up-- hey, she'd still want to look good!

3) Some kind of stuffed animal from her childhood. Charlie has a sensitive side, we just don't get to see it too often

If you could go to dinner with any of your novels characters who would it be and where would you go to eat?

I'd probably go to dinner with Len. I kind of have a crush on him, to be honest.

What one song would suit Rosaline and Rob relationship right now?

Depends on where in the book they are! I'd probably say "Better In Time" by Leona Lewis. Gosh that song is so so good

What's next for you?

Another novel! I can't say too much about it but it's going really well. I think it's going to be something you will love

Thanks To Rebecca for answering our questions! cannot wait to see this on the big screen I have a feeling its going to be BIG make sure you get When You Mine right now in the UK

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Swag Giveaway!!

Last week I (Andrea) went to a few book signings... if you missed the post for those you can click here... but at the Dark Days tour Kimberly Derting, Dan Wells, and Jill Hathaway were all so very gracious to let me raid their swag stock pile and take promotional cards, stickers, pins, bookmarks, etc. Jill was on top of it, she already had a stack of bookmarks presigned- that is VERY smart thinking! Anyways, I'll stop with this tangent and get to the good stuff...

So I've made out 5 "grab bags" ( and added a few extra swag from other books/authors as well)... these will be completely random. I've already made them up and all of them have at least ONE signed items in them :) if not more. 

So all you have to do below is the simple rafflecopter form below ... this is open to US & INTL!! Our followers have been AMAZING! and this is just a fun way for us to give back to you! 



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Insurgent Blog Tour: Team Dauntless Video

Hello Ladies and gentlemen. Ok so basically Dark Readers have been involved in an awesome event happening around the Book Blog World in the UK involving Veronica Roths Divergent Factions. It is all explained here at Book Passion For Life. So to show how passionate Team Dauntless are Dark Readers decided to film a video that involved some other awesome Team Dauntless Bloggers Sister Spooky and Hannah Mariska . Heres the video and we hope you share it around with other people and comment below to tell us what you think. Also there is a giveaway at the bottom and some bloopers! :)

BLOOPERS :)

So what do you think guys? NOW for the Chance to win a UK copy of Insurgent enter below! ITS INTERNATIONAL :) GOODLUCK

Make sure you go to Raimy @ Read a Raptor for her stop on the blog tour right now. Her Top ten character posts!

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Book Review: Insurgent By Veronica Roth

Name: Insurgent
Author: Veronica Roth
UK/US Release date: May 1st
Summary: War looms in sixteen-year-old Tris’s dark dystopian world as disputes between the factions grow. Tris must now fight against all odds to discover the truth that can save her and the people she loves. Sides must be chosen, secrets will emerge – and the choices she makes will have devastating and unexpected consequences.
Review: Oh goodie gosh. The anticipation of this book has been crazy!! To have it finally in my hands was a great feeling! I was worried it wouldn't compare to Divergents awesomeness but how wrong I was it is BETTER
As soon I  opened the first page I feel like I am home again. With Tris and Tobias in this action packed crazy world that sucks you in and as much as it gets bad you just never want to leave!

I can't explain to you how amazingly realistic this book is! From the relationships to the surroundings. So it seems like Dauntless really can't catch a break in this novel! It's exciting, tremendous and I was on the edge of my seat through out! I'm going say this: Four and Tris are my favorite YA couple of all time! Yes I said it! You guys have no idea how happy I am that there wasn't a love triangle this book! This book Its so original and I'm so happy that Veronica has made Tris this way!

The plot is exciting. Every page you turn something's happening! You're always on your feet and thinking non stop through out it. The twists and the things that you thought my happen do NOT so there really isn't any point making assumptions because this book was so brilliantly unpredictable!
Reading this book made me close my eyes after reading a scene and imagine me there, as Tris feeling every emotion and watching it all play out! This is what insurgent does to me, Veronica's writing is nothing like I've read! She has an awesome style that I can't put my finger on but this style leaves you staying up into the wee hours of the night not wanting the story to end

Tris has gotten even braver and reckless in this book You really see why she chose Dauntless in the first place! She is such a strong character and such a good role model to us girls to fight for what we believe in!I've never read a YA so detailed and this cleverly written! Still has the humor Divergent has and has some new amazing loveable and unlovable  characters which just make the book even more enjoyable.
Insurgent is just as beautiful and captivating as Divergent.  Better, to be in fact I strongly suggest May 1st you buy it! Your perceptions on YA will never be the same. Be Brave!

TEAM DAUNTLESS UK!

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Book Signings: Lisa Scottoline & Dark Days

Last Thursday I drove to Naperville, IL for Lisa Scottoline's book signing at Anderson's Bookshop. She was there for her latest novel Come Home. I've been a huge fan of Lisa's writing for several years now and started picking up her books when I came across her mystery series Rosato & Associates. Now that Lisa has started writing a newer genre of fiction I've continued to read her novels and have loved each one of them! I'm sure Come Home won't be any different...

Lisa is one of the sweetest people I've had the pleasure of meeting! I handed her "Look Again" saying that it was one of my personal favorites of her's and asked if she'd personalize it for me. And Come Home she signed to Dark Readers Blog :) so guess what that means!! Giveaway soon once I get the book read lol! When she found out that I drove 4.5 hours to this signing she gave me an entire box of TastyKakes which she had been handing out -- they are very good! 

"Whenever something bad happens in life I always say... well that's just a plot twist. Because you'll figure it all out." - Lisa Scottoline

Before Lisa's signing I ran in Dan Wells YA author of Partials who was there for Dark Days of Winter tour with Kimberly Derting (The Body Finder series) and Jill Hathaway (Slide)! I introduced myself and explained that I wish I could make it to their signing but it was conflicting with Lisa's so I'd make my way over later as I was talking with him both Kimberly and Jill walked up and so Dan introduced me to them and explained to him about Dark Readers Blog and that I'd be over later to the signing but couldn't make it right away. They were finished speaking by the time I got there but I was able to gather up some signed swag to do giveaways! (Keep an eye out! I'll have a post up tomorrow!) Had a lovely chat with Dan about the cover of the second book in Partials- the cover looks awesome!

Overall both signings were a huge success! I was very glad I had the opportunity to meet Lisa, I can officially mark that signing off my list - but I hope that that isn't the last time she's back in the area because she's a fun speaker and just a great person to be around!!

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Book Review and GIVEAWAY Mockingbird By Kathryn Erskine

Name: Mockingbird
Author: Kathryn Erskine
Publisher: Usborne

Summary:
In Caitlin’s world, everything is black or white. Things are good or bad. Anything in between is confusing. That’s the stuff Caitlin’s older brother, Devon, has always explained. But now Devon’s dead and Dad is no help at all. Caitlin wants to get over it, but as an eleven-year-old girl with Asperger’s, she doesn’t know how. When she reads the definition of closure, she realizes that is what she needs. In her search for it, Caitlin discovers that not everything is black and white—the world is full of colors—messy and beautiful.


Review:
A heartbreaking novel of the everyday life of Caitlin- a young girl with Asperger's Syndrome.

Asperger's Syndrome is a rare and relatively mild autistic disorder characterised by awkwardness in social interaction, pedantry in speech, and preoccupation with very narrow interests.
Not only is Caitlin socially awkward, her and her dad are grieving her brother Devon's death.
The novel is in Caitlin's view and you can see how much she relied on her older brother in many everyday situations.
Reading Mockingbird has made me realise how much we take for granted in life.
For Caitlin so much effects how she gets through every second of every day and I find this sad.
It really has made me think- just small things like making friends and being part of a group intimidates her.
If she's out in the playground she's at her most frightened as the loudness gets to her.
The worry makes her act really childish she finds comfort in sucking on her sleeve, which means other children find her weird.
I love that even though a few children have called her names or been unkind to her, Caitlin still continues to try and make friends, she sees the kindness in everyone.
Caitlin understands the importance of manners and helps enforce manners amongst her peers.
I loved her friendship with Michael and the connection between them is heartbreaking especially as he is much younger than she is.
I also loved it when Emma realised how good at drawing Caitlin is, it made me smile knowing that would have made her day.
Caitlin may have a disorder that makes her different but she has a huge heart.
The poignant story will have you hooked from the very first page through to the very last word.
Seeing Caitlin improve and change her life for the better is beautiful, if you don't feel emotional whilst reading this novel then I worry about you as a person.
The ending is perfect and beautiful.

I also loved that Kathryn included an author note stating the reasoning behind this beautiful book.
As a resident of Virginia, Kathryn Erskine was devastated by the 2007 shootings at Virginia Tech, following that tragedy, Kathryn wanted to understand the families, and the community who went through this trauma as well as the families with special-needs children and how they dealt with the life-changing events.

I loved this book so much that I want to share it with the world.
So, leave me a comment stating why you should win my proof copy.

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Book Review: Insignia By S.J.Kincaid

Name: Insignia
Author: S.J.Kincaid
Publisher: Hot Key Books
Release date in UK: August 2012

Summary:

More than anything, Tom Raines wants to be important, though his shadowy life is anything but that. For years, Tom’s drifted from casino to casino with his unlucky gambler of a dad, gaming for their survival. Keeping a roof over their heads depends on a careful combination of skill, luck, con artistry, and staying invisible.

Then one day, Tom stops being invisible. Someone’s been watching his virtual-reality prowess, and he’s offered the incredible—a place at the Pentagonal Spire, an elite military academy. There, Tom’s instincts for combat will be put to the test, and if he passes, he’ll become a member of the Intrasolar Forces, helping to lead his country to victory in World War Three. Finally, he’ll be someone important: a superhuman war machine with the tech skills that every virtual-reality warrior dreams of. Life at the Spire holds everything that Tom’s always wanted—friends, the possibility of a girlfriend, and a life where his every action matters—but what will it cost him?

Gripping and provocative, S. J. Kincaid’s futuristic thrill ride of a debut crackles with memorable characters, tremendous wit, and a vision of the future that asks startling, timely questions about the melding of humanity and technology.

Review:
Insignia is completely different to anything I would usually read.

When I first read the description I was intrigued, I never expected to be compelled by this book.
If I'm honest I thought it was more for boys but now I can safely say I was mistaken.
Tom the main character is likeable and he's a character that you just can't help liking and feeling for.
Tom Raines is an average spotty teen who just wants a normal life. Because of his Dads gambling he has no real structure or routine in his life,that is what he longs for.
Tom never realised his love for VR games would change his life forever.
This story is so compelling- the aspects of propaganda and military life is intriguing and it feels naughty.
It's like you're reading something that you shouldn't.
It's as if it should come with a message- this book will self-destruct after the very last sentence.
Insignia really made me think about what's happening around us. I've always been sceptical of the army, as these days the young boys and girls aren't fighting for us.
What was really interesting is how much a person can be brainwashed- even the strongest of people have a weakness.

It's sad how the public don't ever question what they're told via the media.
Tom hadn't realised how much he'd been missing out on in life until he met Vik, Yuri, Beamer, Wyatt and Heather.
He had friends who liked him for him- warts and all. Tom Raines is a feisty character, who knows how to stand up for himself and he's new found friends liked him for that.
I don't want to ruin the story but there is a few times Tom's friendships are compromised for no thought of his own. As a reader you're willing the real Tom to suffice as are his friends.
I love the fact that tutors and other pupils changed their thoughts and feelings towards Tom as the novel progressed.
If you've ever played sim's you'll fall in love with this novel- the fantasy and reality of the sims was amazing.
Tom became obsessed by the warrior Medusa- he would regularly watch videos of her fights before he got to know her.
Was his fantasy what he'd hoped for in reality? You'll have to read for yourself to find out.
Can you really fall in love with someone you don't know? Or will plain right cruelty change that first thought altogether?
I honestly didn't realise this was a series until after I'd finished the book.
I cannot wait to see what Tom gets up to next and whether he can mend the relationship between him and his ongoing obsession with Medusa.
When you encounter Insignia you'll never play a game in the same way again.

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In My Mailbox #62

Received:

Life Eternal By Yvonne Woon

Slated By Teri Terry

Until I Die By Amy Plum

Received:

Insurgent By Veronica Roth

The Blessed By Tonya Hurley

Fity Shades Darker By E.L James

Fifty Shades Freed By E.L James

Received:

SIGNED DIVERGENT!!

Thanks to Trini from abook-loversreview for getting me this! It has made my year!

Thanks to all the publishers who sent me these awesome books! I cannot wait to get started! :)



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Book Review: Fever By Dee Shulman

Name: Fever
Author: Dee Shulman
Publisher:Puffin Books

Summary:

A fearless Roman gladiator. A reckless twenty-first-century girl. A mysterious virus unites them . . .

152 AD. Sethos Leontis, a skilled and mesmerising fighter, is unexpectedly wounded and lies dangerously close to death.

2012 AD. Eva is brilliant - but troubled. Starting her new life at a school for the gifted, a single moment in the lab has terrifying results.

An extraordinary link brings Sethos and Eva together, but it could force them apart - because the fever that grips them cannot be cured and falling in love could be lethal . . . Can love survive when worlds collide and threaten time itself?
The first book in a brand-new series by Dee Shulman.

Review:
This is the second Dystopian novel that I've read and if I'm honest I wasn't sure what to expect from 'Fever'.
Eva's passages had me hooked from the word go, whereas Seth's took a while to entrance me.
I loved the differences in the centuries between them as it made each part of the story so diverse.
Seth- a gladiator loved by most women. He can have any woman he wants, but he chooses the one he cant have Livia.
Seth is mesmerised by her and he nearly gets himself killed by holding her gaze.
Each time Seth and Livia meet the tension is more and more explosive.
The sexual chemistry between them is apparent from that first gaze.
The description of their kiss is passionate and extremely intense.
Eva is a geeky teen who enjoys hacking technology-usually her schools computers.
I loved Eva from the word go, she's different to your average teen.
The sad thing is she didn't have a proper friend until she went to St Magdalene's and met Ruby.
Ruby is a bubbly, loveable character well this was my first thought of her.

The description of the 'Fever' itself is compelling and well written, as a reader you would occasionally find yourself remembering the last time you were sick, and how you overcome the temperature.
Each time a character goes through this excruciating pain as a reader you can emphasise with them.
Dee has written this gripping novel so well, I didn't realise it would be part of a series.
What I also loved about 'Fever' was that St Magdalene's is a London based school, as many YA novels are American based.
I loved the feeling I got when I saw the merging of the stories. There was definitely some 'lightbulb' moments from me.
As the novel nears the end there are a number of shocking twists that will have you on the edge of your seat.
As a reader you won't see them coming, but when they do they make complete sense.
The funny thing is after you've discovered the twists they seem blindingly obvious.
The description is so addictive, it has you hooked wanting more, turning page after page as each sentence is more intense than the last.
I don't know what to expect next, but it's safe to say I'll enjoy the ride in finding out.

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GIVEAWAY!! Half-Blood & Pure by Jennifer Armentrout

Hey everyone! As you may know I (Andrea) am a HUGE fan of the Covenant series by Jennifer Armentrout and well I wanted to give our followers a chance to read these books as well, so its Giveaway time!!

The rules are simple, just follow the basic Rafflecopter Guidelines to be entered to win (as pictured below) ::

• ARC Half-Blood
• ARC Pure
• Pure Book Mark
• Guitar pick 

Open to US/ INTERNATIONAL! 

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You can read my review for Half-Blood (book #1) HERE
And Pure (book #2) HERE

Vote for this blog for the Independent Book Blogger Awards!
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Book Review: Dreamless By Josephine Angelini

Name: Dreamless
Author: Josephine Angelini
Publisher: MacMillan
UK Release date: 5th July 2012
Summary: As the only Scion that can enter Hades at will, Helen descends to the Underworld in search of a way to overcome the Furies and end the cycle of revenge that has cursed the Scions. But she’s running out of time. Each descent weakens her both in mind and spirit. A mysterious stranger might be her only salvation, but the price may be her love for Lucas Delos.

As an unforgettable love triangle emerges, Josephine Angelini’s compelling saga becomes ever more intricate and spellbinding. The eagerly awaited sequel to the internationally bestselling Starcrossed, Dreamless delivers with a huge emotional impact that will leave readers satisfied—and longing for more

Review: Do you ever sit at home and think about wanting to be in other world? To be suck into a place which excites you, challenges you and keeps you entertained through out? Well here is the time where you pick up Dreamless and be transformed into a world you'll never want to leave.

Teenagers decendents from Greek gods with powers you can only imagine in your wildest dreams!
 Dreamless is the highly anticipated sequel to the best selling Star crossed, and let me say it has excelled any thoughts I had. The Underworld, Morpheus, Ares, Hades and the scary Furies this book is packed full of amazing Greek mythology! With each, Line, page and chapter you can defiantly see Josephine has done her research.

The way Josephine has described Dreamless's world is so vivid. I think its descriptive and effective. Josephine has created word images so vivid that it is almost like watching a movie. She takes you for a romp through crazy worlds of Powerful gods, lightning, dreams, portals, Caves and unbelievable places you can only imagine in your wildest dreams. A action packed suspenseful event where two people fight to lift the curses of the furies for the ones they love and fight to keep each other alive in the process.

Let's talk about the characters in this novel. I will have honestly say that out of all the gods that were introduced in Dreamless my favorite was Morpheus! The God of Dreams! His sexy, seductive self was very compelling and I can tell you all will enjoy reading that scene as much as I did!
Josephine has written Helen and Lucas's scenes so picturesquely and romantic that I had myself swooning through out. So much detail and love has been put into these two characters and you can defiantly see that while reading. Sometimes heat ache but sometimes glorious.

There are few more enticing characters in this novel I would be here all day if I talked about them all but I will say this. If you like heroic, challenging, attractive funny characters then this is the book for you. And also a new character has been introduced who I think was very refreshing and such an exciting read.. Orion.

Josephine has set the bar very high for any Greek mythology YA orientated novels, I haven't read an amazing one like this in awhile and as I sit here with happy exciting tears running down my face I can honestly say this book can defiantly inspire you to love and fight for what you believe it.

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Review & Blog Tour: PURE by Jennifer Armentrout

WELCOME to Dark Readers! We are delighted to have PURE make a stop at our blog :) And Would like to Thank Stuck In Books who are hosting this fabulous Book Tour for letting DR join in. Be sure to read all the way down to the bottom to see how you can be entered to WIN Pure Tour Giveaways!

Title: Pure (The Second Covenant Novel)
Author: Jennifer Armentrout
Publisher: Spencer Hill Press
Published: April 3rd OUT NOW!

Summary: Being destined to become some kind of supernatural electrical outlet isn't exactly awesome--especially when Alexandria's "other half" is everywhere she goes. Seth's in her training room, outside her classes, and keeps showing up in her bedroom--so not cool. Their connection does have some benefits, like staving off her nightmares of the tragic showdown with her mother, but it has no effect on what Alex feels for the forbidden, pure-blooded Aiden. Or what he will do--and sacrifice--for her.

When daimons infiltrate the Covenants and attack students, the gods send furies--lesser gods determined to eradicate any threat to the Covenants and to the gods, and that includes the Apollyon... and Alex. And if that and hordes of aether-sucking monsters didn't blow bad enough, a mysterious threat seems willing to do anything to neutralize Seth, even if that means forcing Alex into servitude... or killing her.

When the gods are involved, some decisions can never, ever be undone.

Review: Pure is the second book in the Covenant novel and after reading Half- Blood, I was ecstatic when I opened up a package one morning to see that Pure had arrived in my mailbox! So for starters, if you have yet to read Half-Blood, this review will not be a spoiler for you, BUT I suggest you turn back now and go buy a copy because you will not regret reading this series! 

Pure starts off right where Half-Blood ended, but at the same time there was refreshers added so that readers knew what happened in the first book as Alex continued to recall events that happened from the past. Alex is in training as she is fated to become the next Apollyon alongside Seth. This sets up for an interesting story because Seth must spend quite a bit of his time with Alex, and well their relationship is somewhat of love/ hate. 

Alex is such a strong character, I love her strength and wit. She might be scared, but she does her best not to show it because she knows that she can't afford to look scared- she has too much to loose. Being the Apollyon there is a lot on her shoulders as she tried to comes to terms with a past event involving her mother who was a Daimon and also knowing that who you think you love isn't always the best person for you.

And Oh My Gods...

 “Ever since I’ve met you, I’ve wanted to break every rule.” Aiden turned away, the muscles in his neck tensing. He sighed. “You’ll become the center
of someone’s world one day. And he’ll be the luckiest son of a bitch on this earth.”

 If Aiden isn't the hottest creature ever.. I don't know who else is-- oh wait? Seth maybe? No No it's Aiden! 

I started to get a little wary because I could hence that there was beginning to be a love triangle and that truly scared me; not that I don't like reading about them, but because I feel as though they've been overdone in Yound Adult literature. Not everyone has to agree. BUT Jennifer took on a completely different direction hence the fact that it is dangerous for Aiden who is a Pure to fall in love with a Half. The quote "love conquers all" does not quite work in the Covenant, and therefore a sacrifice on love sometimes has to be made. Although it was heartbreaking to read- because it's obvious to readers that Aiden would be with Alexandria in a heartbeat if he could be, he couldn't let himself- and that should make any reader/ and woman love this character even more! A guy who is putting his wants and needs last to ultimately save her.  

And then... There is Seth *sighs*

He is one of those guys where you want to hit him then kiss and hit him again because he just does and says the right thing at the wrong time all the time! haha. I can totally understand why Alex is a tug of war situation in Pure because wow-- these two guys are completely opposite but very charming in their own ways.  

Jennifer knows how to capture her readers and pull them into a story that is set up for adventure- leaps and bounds- love and loss (yes, loss! believe me you will need a tissue or two). There aren't many authors that have several series out where I enjoy each of them all the same, just because one series is awesome doesn't mean the other will be, but I believe it has to do with Jennifer's writing style and being able to take her writing a create characters that seem alive in all aspects! Fantastic.
 

 Click here to check out the schedule for the tour! 

GIVEAWAY: To gain an entry in both of the tour giveaways for Pure, leave a comment below. Then go to StuckInBooks and/or A Cupcake and a Latte with this post link to complete your entry. Its that easy!

Join on Twitter & Tweet with the hashtag #PureTourJLA to spread the tour love!

 

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Waiting On Wednesday

Waiting On Wednesday is a weekly event, hosted by Breaking The Spine, that spotlights upcoming releases that we're eagerly anticipating.


I cannot wait to get my hands on this sizzling Summer read...I truly adored Soul Beach and cannot wait for Soul Fire from the lovely Kate Harrison...I'm looking forward to seeing what happens next.

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VOTE Dark Readers:: Independent Book Blogger Award

Today starts the 1st day of voting for INDEPENDENT BOOK BLOGGER AWARDS, which is hosted through GoodReads. This award is broken up into 4 sections and Dark Readers is under Young Adult books. We have enjoyed reading and reviewing and love interacting with our followers- so please consider Dark Readers and VOTE underneath! Thanks.

P.S. This award gives a U.S blogger the chance to go to BEA (Book Expo America) which would be an amazing time!

Vote for this blog for the Independent Book Blogger Awards!

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THANKS!!
Dark Readers Girls <3

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Book Review: Welcome To Rosie Hopkins Sweet Shop of Dreams by Jenny Colgan

Name: Welcome To Rosie Hopkins' Sweet Shop of Dreams
Author: Jenny Colgan
Publisher: Sphere
Release date: 28th March, 2012
Summary:

Were you a sherbet lemon or chocolate lime fan? Penny chews or hard boiled sweeties (you do get more for your money that way)? The jangle of your pocket money . . . the rustle of the pink and green striped paper bag . . .


Rosie Hopkins thinks leaving her busy London life, and her boyfriend Gerard, to sort out her elderly Aunt Lilian’s sweetshop in a small country village is going to be dull. Boy, is she wrong.

Lilian Hopkins has spent her life running Lipton’s sweetshop, through wartime and family feuds. As she struggles with the idea that it might finally be time to settle up, she also wrestles with the secret history hidden behind the jars of beautifully coloured sweets.

Review:

Firstly, this book makes me want to scoff a LOT of sweets.

It does make me think of getting pick a mix as a treat when I was a child.
What am I talking about? I cannot deny I've always had a sweet tooth.
I loved Jenny's last novel 'Meet Me At The Cupcake Cafe' although that also made me seriously hungry.
I love the fact that in 'Welcome To Rosie Hopkins Sweet shop of Dreams' you get the present and past tense, giving you lots of background on Lilian and on the wondrous world of sweets.

Did you know the Mars Bar came to our lives in 1933?

Now is Rosie speaking and in the past it's Lilian.
I loved the way Jenny has written this, the past tense is quite like going through a dreamlike state, as a reader you're on edge as each past entry ends leaving you wanting more.
You can see why Lilian tends to come across quite rude.
Poor Rosie gets herself into some compromising positions, as a reader I feel for her, yet I also see the humour.
I loved the way Lilian and Rosie's relationship started very tense, yet they became so close.
Rosie's an agency nurse and when her mum Angie calls her from Australia to ask her to go help out a relative she hardly remembers.
Rosie is a little put out, Lilian see's Rosie as a relative who is ready to pack her off.
I don't think either of them realised how much they'd need each other.

Jenny Colgan creates loveable characters and Rosie is your typical loveable heroine.
She's funny, naïve and very caring.
Maybe too caring, but remember she is a nurse that's surely part of her job description.
This story will make you laugh, you'll definitely want to eat sweets.
There are moments when you'll also be cringing at some of the situations Roise gets into but you will also smile.
There was some twists I was not expecting, proper shock moments.
I truly enjoyed this feel good read.
I also loved that there was a comment from Jenny too, I think little touches like that add to the enjoyment of the book itself.

Jenny has yet again surpassed herself and I'm still a huge fan..

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Review: The Princesses of Iowa by M. Molly Backes

Title: Princesses of Iowa
Author: M. Molly Backes
Publisher: Candlewick
Expected Publication: May 8th 2012

Summary: Paige Sheridan has the perfect life. She's pretty, rich, and popular, and her spot on the homecoming court is practically guaranteed. But when a night of partying ends in an it-could-have-been-so-much worse crash , everything changes. Her best friends start ignoring her, her boyfriend grows cold and distant, and her once-adoring younger sister now views her with contempt. The only bright spot is
her creative writing class, led by a charismatic new teacher who encourages students to be true to themselves. But who is Paige, if not the homecoming princess everyone expects her to be? In this arresting and witty debut, a girl who was once high-school royalty must face a truth that money and status can't fix, and choose between living the privileged life of a princess, or owning up to her mistakes and giving up everything she once held dear.

Review: I normally don't start off with explaining characters in a novel, but the main character in this book is so complex in some ways, & in others so naive that I thought it was best to start with her. Paige, who comes back from what everyone else assumes is a relaxing vacation away in Paris is thrown into a mosh pit to defend herself from her two best friends Nikki and Lacy. I was torn the entire time reading on whether or not I was supposed to be taking someone's side? Was there sides in this book? I still haven't quite figured that out. 

Paige is a very smart (some would use the word nerd, but heaven forbid, the terms "princess" and "nerd" be used together) girl, but she was not always influenced by the best poeple. Her judgements were off because of her upbringing. Her mother is so determined to have her follow in her footsteps to become the next "Princess" of her High School that they've literally spent years gearing up for one day. Talk about dedication! 


I guess I kinda felt sorry for Paige- I could see past the girly wanna be Princess and see the sensitive caring person that she really was. The person that was brave and stood up for what she believed not what everyone wanted her to believe. Her mother on the hand-- I could've punched! 


The story revolves around students drinking and driving. And in all honestly this book is very real. It is a very dramatic version of reality, but that's what makes it fiction right? After the accident Paige has to figure out where to go from there- her mother tries so hard to cover up the accident from even happening, to make Paige look innocent. High Schoolers are deeply influenced by the people they are around the most and that usually includes parents, friends and teachers. 


The story took a few different directions than I actually thought it would. The subject of gay rights became a topic in the school after a teacher was accused of being gay and then fired. In the beginning, I was frustrated because I kept feeling like the word "fag" was being thrown around just for the hell of it. I didn't see the need for it. But eventually, I understood why it fit into the storyline and also I liked the twist that it took. It came full circle in the end. 


Author M. Molly Backes did an excellent job at bringing out the emotions and attitude for those of a typical high school student. I didn't always feel like the book needed to be as long as it was- sometimes I felt as though I kept reading and really never got anywhere with the storyline for that section- but the details were nice. We got to see more into the characters thoughts. 


I think high school students could take away quite a bit from this book. 3 of 5 stars.

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In My Mailbox #61

Received

The Immortal Rules By Julie Kagawa (signed)

Envy By Elizabeth Miles

Dragon Bound By Thea Harrison

Thanks to all the publishers who sent me these awesome books :) Whats in YOUR mailbox? Comment below! I would love to see!



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Crave By Melissa Dranell Blog Tour: Review and QnA

Name: Crave (The Clann #1)
Author: Melissa Darnell
Publisher: Mira Ink
UK Release Date: Out Now
Summary: Bloodlust. Magic. Forbidden secrets.
When Savannah Colbert returns to school after a mystery illness, the fact that she has changed is clear to everyone. None more so than every school girls golden boy Tristan Coleman. Ever since their first kiss in fourth grade, Savannah and Tristan have been cruelly and inexplicably banned from associating with each other. Now, as the pair navigate the tricky social life of high school, the truth is about to be revealed.  As Savannah learns of their paranormal ancestry and Tristan deals with the repercussions of her new powers, the relationship they have been denied for so long becomes utterly irresistible and all consuming. Like Romeo and Juliet centuries before them, Savannah and Tristan’s love is destined to fail; and Tristan’s powerful magical family, the Clann, are watching

Review: I'l be up front: there are lots of witches and vampires in the book, but it's not as lame as it sounds. I can handle some occult, but I'm not into magic so I was surprised that I liked this book. So original! So exciting so atmospheric and just beyond incredible! As soon as I opened the book I was sucked into it! This book was completely opisite to what I was expecting. Such a captivating plot that will have you on the edge of your seat.

As soon as I opened this novel it pulls you in. So much is going on is just the first few pages. From the beginning till the end I was on edge turning each page. Its was like a time bomb waiting to happen it was fantastic.

This book is a single serving of everything on the YA menu. You’ve got witches, vampires, and star crossed loves, combined with the clichéd cliques of high school. In this captivating novel, Darnell tells a beautiful love story about mystery, forbidden love, betrayal and magic. This story really captivates into another world. With different perspectives from Tristan and Savannah the reader is able to understand both emotions and from different views.

I loved all the relation ships in this novel! Melissa and portrayed them so amazingly with her words! I love these characters and some I even love to hate. Savannah's best friend Anne is the best! She's not afraid to do whatever it takes to protect and defend Savannah. I love Tristan's older sister Emily. She is super smart and definitely someone you want on your side.

Read CRAVE, you won't be sorry, you will be welcoming Melissa Darnell with open arms. The excerpt from COVET at the end leaves you dying for more!

QNA with Melissa Dranell:

If Tristan and Savannah were stuck on a desert island together what 3 things each do you think they would bring?

Nothing! The beauty of having magical powers like theirs is that Tristan can always do a spell to summon whatever they need (including sunscreen for Savannah, firewood to keep them warm, fishing equipment, and a water filtration system to desalinate the ocean water), Tristan can start a fire with a single thought and draw energy from the earth (or in this case sand) beneath them, and Savannah can simply kiss him to draw all the energy she needs to stay alive.

If Crave was made into a movie what actor/actress would you love to see play tristan and Savannah?

Ah, my most favorite question, lol. I see every story like a fully detailed movie in my mind, and I always choose actors to represent each character so I can keep their appearances straight. For Tristan, I would choose Alex Pettyfer (he looked JUST like I pictured Tristan in the beginning of the movie Beastly!). For Savannah, I would choose someone like Emma Watson because her acting has a ton of depth that sort of draws you in, and she has a superb ability to portray a character who is both sweet yet strong. Or if not Emma, then definitely Bella Thorne from Disney's Shake It Up, because she looks EXACTLY like Savannah!

If aliens landed in front of Savannah and, in exchange for anything she desires, offered her any position on their planet, what would she want?

Oh lordy, I have no idea. Maybe she could become their star dancer for some alien opera house's ballet production? lol Though knowing her, she'd probably get tired of only being a dancer and want to start choreographing the entire show eventually.

If Tristan were written about in the newspaper, on the front page, what would the headline say?

"Golden Boy Wins Again"

If you could go to dinner with any of your novels characters who would it be and where would you go to eat?

Anne because that girl likes to eat (so she'll never judge me on how much I like to eat!), and she'd end up making me laugh so hard I'd probably snort a veggie out of my nose or something! Plus she's based on my real life best friend from high school, whom I haven't seen in years and miss.

My choice of restaurant would have to be either Olive Garden (because I proudly adore their food!) or Golden Corral (because their buffet has so much selection that you'll never get bored while eating and you can eat all you want!).

And yes, I do realize it's a wonder that I don't weigh more than I do with eating preferences like these!

What one song would suit Savannah and Tristan's relationship right now?

For Crave, it would have to be Taylor Swift's Romeo and Juliet.

Thank you for having me here on your blog! Readers can also read more about the history of Savannah's race of vampires as well as the Clann, listen to each Clann Series book's playlist, and more at www.TheClannSeries.com, and contact me anytime at www.melissadarnell.com

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