Endless by Amanda Gray

Jenny Kramer knows she isn't normal. After all, not everybody can see the past lives of people around them.

When she befriends Ben Daulton, resident new boy, the pair stumble on an old music box with instructions for “mesmerization” and discover they may have more in common than they thought. Like a past life.

Using the instructions in the music box, Ben and Jenny share a dream that transports them to Romanov Russia and leads them to believe they have been there together before. But they weren't alone. Nikolai, the mysterious young man Jenny has been seeing in her own dreams was there, too. When Nikolai appears next door, Jenny is forced to acknowledge that he has travelled through time and space to find her. Doing so means he has defied the laws of time, and the Order, an ominous organization tasked with keeping people in the correct time, is determined to send him back.

While Ben, Jenny and Nikolai race against the clock - and the Order - Jenny and Nikolai discover a link that joins them in life - and beyond death

Paperback, 384 pages

Published September 10th 2013 by Month9Books, LLC.

Genre:  YA, Romance, Fantasy

Terri's Review

I received this novel as an ARC from Netgalley.  I was enticed to request this read due to the beautiful book cover and the synopsis of the book sounded interesting.  A book about time travel and love that does not know the boundaries of time.  Who wouldn't want to read that?

The book begins remarkably alternating between the present and the love story in the 1800's.  The way Gray went back and forth and told the story was effortlessly told.  It reminded me of a younger version of Susanna Kearsley's Marianna (which I loved) how Jenny was seeing the story of the past through her dreams however did not know how it fit in to her present. 

The characters and how they interacted were well written.  I particularly enjoyed the interactions between Ben and Jenny and how their friendship developed.  It was real and believable with two people coming together through a recognition of each others loneliness. The plot also moved well as I was along for the journey in an effort to find out if everything would be resolved (trying not to include any spoilers).

Based on the first half of the book I would have given it a 5 star rating.  It was a haunting love story.  The second half of the book was not quite as good as the first.  My problem was that the chemistry that Jenny and Nikolai had in the past did not translate that well in to the present.  In fact in the present I found that Jenny had more chemistry with Ben.  Perhaps this was intentional in an effort to develop a love triangle?  I don't know.  There was enough action in the second part of the book to be able to overlook this for the most part.

At the end of the day this book was about soul mates and a love strong enough to surpass the test of time.  That is enough sigh worthy moments to overlook any minor aspects of the book that I did not like.  Although I could not find any information to confirm there is also plenty of story left to have a sequel or two to this story.  I would recommend this book to any teen girl who wants to spend a few hours daydreaming about her perfect soulmate.  A very solid 4 star read.

I would have loved to profile the author in my review however I could not find any information to include.

 

Review: Isn't She Lovely by Lauren Layne

The rules are clear—until they’re broken. Lauren Layne puts a New Adult spin on Pygmalion, also the inspiration for Pretty Woman, and gives the classic love story its edgiest twist yet.

“Who knew that pretending you’re not falling for someone would be so much more difficult than pretending that you are?”

Stephanie Kendrick gave up her whole summer to ace her NYU film school screenwriting course, so she’s pissed to be stuck with a preppy, spoiled frat boy as her writing partner. Then again, with her piercings, black-rimmed eyes, and Goth wardrobe, Stephanie isn’t exactly Ethan Price’s type, either. He’s probably got his eye on some leggy blonde with a trust fund . . . or does he?

As the summer scene kicks off in the Hamptons, Ethan is desperate to make his snobbish mother forget the pedigreed girl who broke his heart. While Stephanie’s a stretch as a decoy, the right makeover and a pastel cardigan just might do the trick. She may not love the idea of playing Ethan’s brainless Barbie girlfriend, but the free rent and luxurious digs make a tempting offer. So does the promise of a ready-made screenplay idea inspired by their charade.

But when Stephanie steps into Ethan’s privileged world, the “acting” begins to feel all too real. The kissing and touching that were intended to fool the Hamptons crowd wind up manipulating them. And Stephanie faces a question she’s too afraid to ask: Is Ethan falling for the real her or for the dolled-up princess he wants to see?

ebook, 240 pages

Expected publication: October 28th 2013 by Flirt 

Genre: New Adult

 

Kristine's Review: 

 

* ARC provided by Random House Publishing via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review*

 

Isn't She Lovely is a super cute, super easy and enjoyable read. In fact, if it wasn't for life, work, family and responsibilities, I could have easily finished it in just a few hours.

 

I don't like to re-tell the story or synopsis so here are a few of my thoughts...

 

The good...

 

I loved the fact that the book was told from the point of view of both Stephanie and Ethan. It was easy to understand where both characters were coming from and to like them both. Neither one of them were perfect and both had issues which made for lots of drama and enjoyable reading.

The spin on Pygmalion was interesting with similarities to movies like Pretty Woman minus the prostitution. The chemistry between these characters was through the roof. The theory that opposites attract is extremely evident in this story. I have to say that the ending reminded me of a different (much older) movie that I won't mention so I don't give anything away.

 

 

 "Life is nothing but phases. Some things stick, lots of things don’t. You’ll figure it out."

 

 

The baggage that Stephanie and Ethan carried made for a great plot and I was happy that the book took us to both sides. It stands to reason that they had to deal with the past in order to move on to the future. The fact that Ethan did and said some things (towards the climax) that may offend some readers made him real and human. I appreciated the fact that he made mistakes and wasn't the perfect hunky boy that (lets be honest) does not exist in real life.

 

 The (NOT SO) bad...

 

I really enjoyed this book so if I had to find any fault it would perhaps be that the story is a tiny bit predictable and that it leans ever so slightly towards the YA genre vs. the NA genre. There is a ton of sexual chemistry, a little bit of descriptive sexual content and language but it was not extreme therefore not too inappropriate for the YA reader.

This was the first book by  Lauren Layne that I have read but it will not be my last. I enjoyed every minute of it!

 

 

About the Author

 

Lauren Layne writes contemporary romance for Grand Central Publishing (Forever Yours) and Random House (Loveswept).

After dabbling in an e-commerce career in Seattle and Southern California, Lauren moved to New York City where she now writes full time.

Lauren graduated from Santa Clara University with B.S. in Political Science that she has yet to put to good use. She lives with her husband and plus-sized pomeranian in a tiny Manhattan studio.

 

Connect with Lauren online

Website-

http://www.laurenlayne.com

Twitter- 

_laurenlayne

Facebook-  https://www.facebook.com/LaurenLayneAuthor

Goodreads-  https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/6969772.Lauren_Layne

 

 

Undertow by K.R Conway

Luckless Eila is unknowingly the last of her kind: Rare. Gifted. Breakable. Stunning Raef is her kind's historic enemy: Soulless. Lethal. Lost. A legendary death 160 years before would set their lives to collide, forcing a beautiful killer to become a savior, a simple wallflower to become a warrior, and ruthless destiny to become a death sentence.


SUMMARY:

Eila Walker knows luck is not a friend, so she is downright shocked to inherit a million-dollar Cape Cod home. And yeah, her new town isn't perfect: the cheerleaders are heinous clones, the local undertow can kill ya, and her Great Grams was supposedly fried by lightning in the harbor square. Still, Eila is hopeful her luckless days are in the past . . . until history decides to repeat itself.

When drool-worthy Raef O’Reilly becomes her friendly, yet weirdly protective shadow, Eila thinks life is pretty darn perfect – until she is hauled beneath the waves by an unnatural undertow. Revealing coal-black eyes and iron-like strength as he rescues her, Raef can no longer hide what he is . . . or what she can do. Eila, last of her kind, can supposedly channel the power of human souls, while Raef is more adept at stealing them. Even worse, the legend about her ancestor isn't such a myth, since Eila’s grandmother was one kick-butt warrior until her lightning-like power backfired. A power that is written all over Eila's DNA.

Determined to stay one step ahead of a dangerous clan that is hunting her, Raef, along with three unlikely allies, will do all they can to protect her. But as hidden pieces of their brutal histories unravel, Eila begins to understand just what went down in the harbor square. She soon realizes that following in her grandmother’s fearless footsteps may be the only way to save those she loves . . . including Raef.

BOOK 1 in the UNDERTOW Series.

Paperback, 1st, 398 pages

Expected publication: October 18th 2013 by Conway (first published October 4th 2013)

Terri's Review

I received this novel from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.

The summary of this book caught my eye as I have recently been drawn to the paranormal/YA/NA genre after discovering it this past summer.  I have to say that I was not let down when I read the book.

If I had to summarize the whole story in one word it would be refreshing.  Although loosely sticking to the usual formula for paranormal teen/romance novels Conway managed to add enough elements to keep it fresh and interesting.  Although there was one main character in Eila there was a great and entertaining supporting cast that were interesting enough to be able to stand on their own within the story.  Often I find that beyond the main character the rest are either boring or annoying.  Not in this case.  I found myself invested in all of the characters.

The romance aspect of the storyline was also intense.  The chemistry between Eila and Raef was undeniable from the beginning and continued to grow throughout the story.  I also enjoyed the fact that the romance aspect was not limited to these two characters and it added an extra element to the story.  I was drawn in by the chemistry and rooting for all of the characters.

Perhaps the element that I enjoyed most about the story was the mystery surrounding the plot and Eila's heritage.  Too often in these types of books I find it is just about the "bad" guys out to get the "good" guys.  Although the good vs. bad theme is evident, the  lines are a little blurred.  Also the story revolves around the mystery of what happened in the past.  It almost read like an historical fiction novel which is ultimately my favorite genre to read.  Don't get me wrong, this is still a paranormal/romance novel however it's appeal extends beyond that.

Lastly, I found Conway's writing style flowed easily and as a result so did the storyline.  I thoroughly enjoyed this read.  If I had to note one criticism it is the fact that the next instalment in this series is not due to be release until the summer of 2014.  That is way too long to revisit these characters!  The good news is that there was plenty of unresolved plotline left so that there will be a great reason to return to this series once it is released.  I personally can't wait for it.

About the Author 

 

Website:  http://capecodscribe.com

Twitter:    sharkprose

Goodreads:   https://www.goodreads.com/KR_Conway     

Confessions of a Boy-Crazy Girl by Paula Hendricks

Sound familiar?

1.  You spot a cute boy (we'll call him Boy A)

2.  You dream about Boy A

3.  You do whatever it takes to get Boy A notice you

4.  Even though Boy A doesn't pursue you, you hang on to your dream of Boy A  until he (a) moves to the North Pole with no access to a cell phone or computer, (b) dies and is buried or cremated, or (c) begins dating another girl

5.  You mend your broken heart by hating Boy A and finding another cute boy (Boy B).  You replace Boy A with Boy B and begin all over again.....

Paula has gone through an entire alphabet-and-more-of boys over the years.

As she shares her journal entries and stories- the good, the bad, and the ugly-you'll be encouraged to trust God with your love life and buckle up for the ride.

Written for teen girls, Confessions of a Boy-Crazy Girl will help you on your journey from neediness to freedom.

Paperback:  160 pages
Published August 20th 2013 by Moody Publishers
Genre: YA*

Terri's Review

I had received this novel as a GoodReads giveaway in exchange for an honest review.

I will start by saying that this book is nothing like what the synopsis suggests.  I had entered the giveaway thinking that this would be a nice light YA read that touches on the topics of self discovery and independence.  I was wrong.

From beginning to end this book read as a bible scripture.  If I had known, I would not have requested this book to read.  While I am not adverse to reading Christian literature and have enjoyed some recently this book goes beyond.  The main focal point is surrounding God and the book is dominated by passages from the bible.  So much so that the point of the journey is lost with the amount of scripture in this short read.  If the only point that is Hendrick's is trying to make is to love God than I guess she was successful.

I almost feel guilty about thinking so poorly about this novel.  I am sure there is a market out there that would find this read fulfilling however if this book continues to be marketed as a YA novel then it will be received to poor reviews.  The synopsis of the book does not indicate the true nature of this read and I am sure a lot of readers are going to be disappointed and put off by it.  I do not blame the author for this as it is obvious that she was passionate about her message.  I blame the marketing of this novel and the fact that it is not being represented for the true genre that it is.  For this I give it a 2 star rating

Review: A Death Displaced (Lansin Island Series) by Andrew Butcher

- Visions - Witches - Ghosts - Murder -

After Nick has a disturbing daydream of a woman's death, he tries to forget it, returning to his life of broken relationships and a traumatic past that hangs over him. But when events mimic the daydream, he realises it was a vision of the future. To save a life, he must act fast.

Escaping death and defying fate leaves Juliet displaced in this world. All she wants is to return to her day-to-day routine, successfully running her own business, but it seems that her 'displacement' comes with an unexpected ability.

Set on an island with a dark past of its own, Nick and Juliet must use their newfound abilities and work together to unravel a mystery more connected to Nick than he could ever have imagined.

A Death Displaced is the first book in a paranormal suspense/contemporary fantasy series with light romance.

Kindle Edition, 265 pages

Published August 1st 2012 by Andrew Butcher 

Genre: Fantasy/ paranormal/ mystery

 

Kristine's Review:

* I received a copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review*

I have realised in recent months that I quite enjoy paranormal books so I was excited to start this book which is the first book in the Lansin Island Series. From reading the synopsis it sounded perfect for fulfilling my paranormal craving. Witches, ghosts, seeing the future, an unsolved mystery and the list goes on...what more could you ask for?

 

The good...

The story showed great promise in the beginning when Nick discovered he could see into the future and Juliet discovered her own abilities. It sounded like the makings of a very interesting story with the possibility of a little romance. I liked how the two characters met and the mystery that linked them together. This book kept me guessing and I couldn't figure out what would come next. For me, that is a definite plus!

 

The (not so) bad...

The characters were not as likable as I had hoped they would be. Nick came across as immature, a little whiny and cried an awful lot for a man in his twenties. Even with his depression I felt like it was a little much. Juliet seemed a little self absorbed and critical of other peoples actions. I also found that the part where Aldrich is introduced was a little long winded.

A lot of things happen in this book and it felt like there was a few different stories going on. Many things were left unanswered and new questions were formed. Of course this is to be expected when it is the first in a series.The last chapter was creepy good and it definitely made me want to read the rest to find out what happens.

I don't normally like to rate a book until I have read the entire series to be fair. Until I know the entire story and how everything ties together it is hard so my rating may change (for the better) once I have read the whole series.Over all a good read!

 

 

About the author

Andrew Butcher lives in England with his family and partner. When he's not writing he loves to watch TV series and read paranormal and fantasy books. Writing is what he wants to do as a career, and it makes him happy to know that other people are enjoying his books.

 

 

 

 

 

Connect with Andrew online 

Website- 

http://www.andrew-butcher.com

Twitter- @Andybutch13

Facebook-  https://www.facebook.com/authorandrewbutcher

Goodreads- http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/6429985.Andrew_Butcher

Origins of Dark Angel (Dark Angel Chronicles #3.5) by Melanie Nilles

Before he became the Dark Angel of McClarron, North Dakota, Elis had a life in his homeworld of Inar'Ahben...or tried to. A younger brother tormented by his older sister. A keeper hunted by the Shirukan. A best friend betrayed.  And a survivor sent alone to Earth to protect a shard of the Starfire crystal.  For Elis, peace was only a word.

Every story has a beginning.  This is the beginning of Dark Angel

Paperback, 230 pages
Published November 29th 2011 by Prairie Star Publishing

Terri's Review

This is the second to last novel in the series and I must admit that I am ready to see the end of it.  Don't get me wrong, the story is not bad it just feels like it is beginning to drag on.

I will begin with the good.  This story was all about Elis who is by far the most interesting character in the series.  It profiles his life before Raea and his experiences as a keeper trainer and the events that led him to Earth.  The story revolves around his growth from a naïve boy to a mature young adult.  Betrayal and heartbreak are abundant throughout the story.  This story was necessary to show Elis' depth of character beyond the hero that he has been up to this point.

I must discuss the points of this story that wore on my nerves.  The overuse of the words "crystal fire' and "ahben depths" as an alternative to cursing has gone on too long.  This has been abundant throughout the series and it was during this instalment that I realised these phrases were in the place of cursing.  I'm not sure if it was because of the age that this story is marketed for however after several books it has gotten to the point of being annoying.

That being said this series is a good clean book with a good vs. evil theme and just enough fantasy to please.  Overall I enjoyed the read and I will see the series through to the end

Review: Into the Deep by Samantha Young

Live young. Live hard. Love deep.

Charley Redford was just an ordinary girl until Jake Caplin moved to her small town in Indiana and convinced her she was extraordinary. Almost from day one Jake pulled Charley into the deep and promised he was right there with her. But when a tragic incident darkened Jake’s life he waded out into the shallows and left Charley behind.

Almost four years later Charley thinks she’s moved on. That is until she takes a study year abroad in Edinburgh and bumps into none other than Jake Caplin at a party with his new girlfriend. The bad-boy-turned-good attempts to convince Charley to forgive him, and as her best friend starts spending time with Jake’s, Charley calls a truce, only to find herself tumbling back into a friendship with him.

As they grow closer, the spark between them flares and begins playing havoc with their lives and relationships. When jealousy and longing rear their destructive heads, Charley and Jake struggle to come to grips with what they mean to one another.

And even if they work it out, there is no guarantee Charley will ever trust Jake to lead her back into the deep…

 

Kindle Edition, 315 pages

Published August 9th 2013 by Samantha Young
Genre: New adult/ romance/ contemporary romance

Kristine's review:

This is the first book that I have read by Samantha Young and I can honestly say that it won't be my last. I was browsing Amazon when I found this title and as I am always looking for "new to me" authors I decided to give it a try. The new adult genre has lately become one of my guilty pleasures and the synopsis sounded so good that I couldn't wait to dive in.

I was hooked immediately!

This story starts with Charley in Endinburg as she begins a study abroad program and she bumps into Jake at a party. We the reader do not know their history initially but it is very obvious that their connection was strong and something very painful took place. We are then taken back and forth between the present and four years prior as the story unfolds. This is a style that I very much enjoy. Normally I prefer one part (past or present) more than the other but I found both to be powerful, strong and interesting in this case.

. “We are all looking for a place in life, somewhere we fit. It’s not a place that changes who we are or what we do – perhaps it shapes us, makes us better, makes us more - but mostly it shelters us with a sense of peace, a sense that whatever we do, whoever we are, we’re not alone in it.
I was lucky enough to find that place, when I was sixteen years old.”

It is not very often that I read about young love at sixteen years old and actually believe or feel the connection and or emotion but I definitely felt it in this book. Young has a way of writing that makes you feel every moment, every butterfly, every touch and every look. I believed in the connection between Charley and Jake. Then something terrible happened...

“From the moment we’d met, he’d dragged me into the deep, swearing to me he was in there with me. It was a lie. He’d waded back out to the shallows and left me to drown”

This book is ultimately about Charley and the emotions she endures as Jake resurfaces in her life, coming to grips with the past, the struggle to deal with her feelings and how to move on from what she thought was forever. It is an emotional roller coaster and I was along for the ride enjoying every minute of it.

The characters in this book are quirky and interesting and I look forward to continuing their story in Out of the Shallows. It cannot come out soon enough! Job well done Samantha Young!

About the author

Samantha Young is a New York Times, USA Today and Wall Street Journal bestselling author from Stirlingshire, Scotland. She's been nominated for the Goodreads Choice Award for Best Author and Best Romance for her international bestseller ON DUBLIN STREET. ON DUBLIN STREET is Samantha's first adult contemporary romance and has sold in twenty-five countries.


 Connect with Samantha online:
Website-  http://www.samanthayoungbooks.com
Facebook-  https://www.facebook.com/pages/Samantha-Young/215808575229107?ref=profile
Twitter- @SYoungSFAuthor
Goodreads- http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/4167378.Samantha_Young
For info on her adult fiction-  http://www.ondublinstreet.com