Summer Reading Event: YA of Omnific Publishing

Streamline

by

Jennifer Lane

Seems like Leo Scott has it all: looks, brains, and athletic talent. He's captain of his high school swim team with a bright future in college and beyond. But Leo has secrets. His mother's crippling car accident has devastated his family and left Leo to deal with his father's abuse, battered and alone. 

Leo's girlfriend Audrey Rose is poised for her own share of success. As one of Florida's top high school swimmers, Audrey dreams of college swimming stardom. But there's an obstacle to her glorious rise to the top. Her number-one supporter-her father-is in prison for murder. 

Part murder mystery, part tale of young love in a military family, this gripping story takes readers on a journey from Pensacola to Annapolis. Leo and Audrey must band together to rise above the adversity they encounter and find their true selves in the process. When everything's on the line . . . streamline.



I loved Streamline!! I'm normally not into the whole murder mystery thing but this book was phenomenal!! You know me and how I hate spoilers but I have to say that so much happens in this book. The characters are all real, have depth, and are so intertwined that nothing is as it seems. Each action effects at least two other people. This is a longer book, which I enjoy because I hate burning through a book in a day or less. This is also the first full length novel by Jennifer Lane that I have gotten to read. I got a taste of her writing from Swim Recruit. It is a novella available for free on Omnific Publishing's website. Click here for more info. You'll see what kind of emotional punch Ms Lane can throw at you. 

I truly enjoyed Streamline by Jennifer Lane and am proud to give it 5 of 5 stars!

Follow the entire Summer Reading Event: YA of Omnific Publishing Tour


Amazon
GoodReads
Jennifer Lane



a Rafflecopter giveaway

Review- The Cowboy Singer by Paula Tiberius

The Cowboy Singer

by

Paula Tiberius

April Connors figured her love life was on hold now that she was about to have a baby on her own. Meeting country singer Jimmy Wick may have made her giant belly flip, but she was filing him under a big “as if.” No man in his right mind would fall for a gal this pregnant. Jimmy was not in his right mind. His ex-wife was petitioning for full custody of their four-year-old daughter and his only saving grace besides playing music was his new ‘friend’ April. But she had just been knocked up, dumped and stranded, and was hellbent on getting her life together just as his was falling apart. They were both caught off guard by the unstoppable romance that would sweep them off their feet.

Review- Silent Song by Ron C Nieto

Silent Song

by

Ron C. Nieto

The princess of the school, Alice, is keeping a secret that could strip her of her high school fame. She is obsessed with the school’s outcast, Keith, but not just him – his music. 

Since the inspiration for the song hit, Keith can’t get it out of his mind. The song must be played; it demands to be played. He knows the music is changing him, but he is unable to stop it. 

Music has the ability to move you, enlighten you, and take you to places you have never dreamed of. And this particular piece? It has a life of its own and makes you forget who you really are. 

As Keith and Alice learn of one another to the notes of that one perfect tune, they can overlook their roles and discover who they could be together. But they also discover someone else is listening and intends on keeping Keith to herself, possibly for an eternity. (Product Description)

Wow! Silent Song was definitely not what I expected... but I mean that in a good way! I admit, it took me a few chapters to really get into the story but once I did, I couldn't stop.I felt like Kevin! (lol) Now, I like to do spoiler free reviews so I can't say too much without giving the plot twist away but I'll see what I can do!

Alice is one of the popular girls at school. She, along with her "friends " Lena and Anna, thinks the most important thing is status. One of the objects of their spite is Kevin. We learn that Alice's and Kevin's families were close years ago but drifted apart. As the story progress, we see Alice learning the true meaning of friendship, the importance of character, and the strength of love.  

As both participate in the school drama, Lady Windemere's Fan, they start to reconnect. As their bond grows, so does the depth of Kevin's troubles. Alice and Kevin begin to search for a way to help Kevin and discover and story of heartbreak and despair. Is the love Alice and Kevin have strong enough to overcome the forces working against them? Read Silent Song to find out.

I am giving Silent Song 4 of 5 stars. Now, I was having many personal things happen as I was beginning to read the novel so that might have made it more difficult for me to get into the book but once I did I was hooked. It was well written and descriptive. I would recommend it to any YA reader.

GoodReads

Amazon

Ron's Website

Review- Dancing Naked in Dixie by Lauren Clark

Dancing Naked in Dixie 

by Lauren Clark

Travel writer Julia Sullivan lives life in fast-forward. She jet sets to Europe and the Caribbean with barely a moment to blink or sleep. But too many mishaps and missed deadlines have Julia on the verge of being fired. 

With a stern warning, and unemployment looming, she's offered one last chance to rescue her career. Julia embarks on an unlikely journey to the ‘Heart of Dixie’—Eufaula, Alabama—home to magnificent mansions, sweet tea, and the annual Pilgrimage. 

Julia arrives, soon charmed by the lovely city and her handsome host, but her stay is marred by a shocking discovery. Can Julia's story save her career, Eufaula, and the annual Pilgrimage?

After trying to deal with the tragic loss of her mother and feeling of abandonment, Julia begins to live her full speed ahead. She uses the break neck pace as a wall to keep others at bay and from getting attached. She thinks this is a good way of coping until her new boss arrives and cancels all of her fast paced plans.  Unsatisfied with her work, her new editor sends her on what she views as the most undesirable assignment ever. Julia is sent to Eufaula, Alabama. She is immediately tossed into the ringer as an outsider in a small town. While memorable cast of characters that can usually be found in a small town trying to learn about their  big city visitor, a devious plot that could change the face of Eufaula forever begins to unfold. As Julia is shown around town by Shug, she begins to see how out of control and chaotic her own life truly is. After what can at least be an eventful visit, Julia returns to the usually comforting chaos of New York City only to find herself wishing things would slow down. Several months pass and she decides to return to Eufaula for the Pilgrimage. Just as many surprises lie in store for this visit as her last.

I did enjoy reading Dancing Naked in Dixie by Lauren Clark. There was so much in this book. There was some wonderful historical information about the town of Eufaula and the families that help build it. It is well written and put together. It was a delightful glimpse into the hierarchy and delightful characters that can make up a small Southern town.  My only complaint was there were a couple of times when I just wanted the story line to move along already.  However, overall it was a fun, light hearted and entertaining read. I am giving Dancing Naked in Dixie by Lauren Clark 4 out of 5 stars.

Win your very own copy of Dancing Naked in Dixie!!

Leave a comment below with your email

 and you're entered to win!!

GoodReads

Amazon

Lauren Clark Web Site

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Review- Lucky in Love by Jill Shalvis

Mallory Quinn has had enough of playing it safe. As a nurse and devoted daughter, she takes care of everyone but herself. And as the local good girl, she's expected to date Mr. Right. But for once, she'd like to take a risk on Mr. Wrong. And who could be more wrong than Ty Garrison? The mysterious new guy in town has made it clear that he's only passing through, which suits Mallory just fine. Besides, his lean, hard body and sexy smile will give her plenty to remember once he's gone...

For the first time in his life, Ty can't bear to leave. Helping this sexy seductress-in-training walk on the wild side is making him desire things he shouldn't -- including leaving the military for good. As their just-for-fun fling becomes something more, Mallory and Ty wonder if they could really be this lucky in love. After all...anything can happen in a town called Lucky Harbor.

Lucky Harbor is a small coastal town in Washington. It is a tight small knit community complete with all the characters and personalities that thrive in such small towns. So when a mysterious guy shows up in town, everyone is curious about him. He's labeled Mysterious Cute Guy on the town's Facebook page and kept tabs on. The last thing Ty (MCG) expected was to find solace with Mallory. She didn't expect the town to be so involved in her dalliances with Ty. What could possibly go wrong?! 

I loved this book!! It was sweet, sensual, and funny. I was chuckling and often as I was fanning myself. Jill Shalvis kept the pace moving but still let you get to know all the great characters that reside in small town USA. I fell in love with Ty and Mallory from the beginning and was rooting for them the entire book. I haven't had the pleasure of reading the first three books of the Lucky Harbor Series but they are definitely on my list now. 


I am giving Lucky in Love 5/5 stars because it charmed me from the beginning. It let me feel the joy, the sorrow, and the heat! *grinning* 




GoodReads
Amazon
Jill Shalvis

Review- A Night Away by Carrie Ann Ryan

A Night Away

by Carrie Ann Ryan

Kade Jamenson has been mated to Melanie for almost two years. They’ve been through mating circles, battles, loss, misunderstandings, and finally, the birth of their son, Finn. The world is in turmoil around them as the Redwoods engage in war with the Centrals. But for Kade and Melanie, the turmoil is also happening at home. The responsibility of a restless baby and their Pack has taken a toll and they need a break.

Not from each other. But from their Pack. Just for a night.

Kade takes Mel away for a romantic getaway and leaves Uncle Maddox alone with baby Finn. The Omega of the Redwood Pack may be adept at emotions but the idea of a baby may be beyond his immense capabilities. 


Author’s Note: This is a novella set between books 3 and 4 to give you a taste of Mel and Kade. It is best that you have already immersed yourselves in the Redwood Pack world, however even new readers will enjoy a glimpse of one of the Redwood’s favorite couples.






A Night Away was a fun short read to introduce new readers to the Redwood Pack Series. You get a small glimpse into the relationships of the Jamenson family, the Alpha family of the Pack. This novella focuses on Kade and Mel, parents struggling to reconnect after having a baby and fulfilling the needs of their Pack. We get a small idea of Jasper and Reed's lives. While we do not have the stories of Adam and Maddox yet, there are hints of their story. 


I admit, I had not read the previous books when I decided to review this for Carrie Ann Ryan but I am glad I did. I am looking forward to learning more about the Redwood Pack. There is no deep character or plot development, but as stated, this is a novella from the middle of a series and should not be expected.  I am giving A Night Away 4/5 Stars and looking forward to more. 

A Night Away Excerpt

Mel looked into Kade’s green eyes and focused. She needed time with this man. Just the fact that she’d thought for a moment he’d leave her meant she did. And Kade cemented the fact that she was scared. Yes, she could admit that at least to herself. She was scared to death. She was floundering as a mother, as a mate, and a Pack leader. She needed a moment to escape. To sit back and remember why she loved doing all these things. To remember that she loved her mate and needed him more than the air she breathed.

She placed her palm on his face, his unshaved cheek scraping against her skin and she shivered at the thought of where else his five-o’-clock shadow could scrape her. His tanned skin looked like caramel against her pallor. She wanted to see where else they’d contrast when they lay naked in a sweaty pile.

She needed a break. If only for a night.

“Okay,” she finally whispered. “That sounds wonderful.”

Maddox released a sigh, and Kade smiled. “Good.”

“Where are we going?”

“It’s a surprise.” Kade gave a smoldering look and Mel melted into a puddle.

Review- Trying to Score by Toni Aleo

Trying to Score

by Toni Aleo

Fallon Parker’s dream was to have her family’s wine company at the top of all wine magazines and to have a cellar of her own. After graduating from college, she has worked hard to make that dream a reality, even if that meant having a nonexistent love life. She had her chance at love and that was a bust, so she put everything into the wine company. After becoming the official sponsor of the Nashville Assassins, Fallon finally feels like everything is falling in place, that is until Lucas Brooks comes back into her life.


Lucas Brooks hates his life. He is lonely, he is sober, and he is angry. On the ice, when he’s not in the sin bin, he the leading scorer in the NHL but off the ice, he is a mess. He threw away the most important person in his life, and has regretted it ever since but when Lucas sees Fallon again after being traded to the Assassins; he is bound and determined to get her back. Even if she wants nothing to do with him.


The sexual tension between Fallon and Lucas is electrifying as Lucas tries to convince Fallon that he is a changed man. Fallon tries to resist Lucas, but it is so hard when all her body wants is his. But when Lucas finds out that Fallon has been keeping a huge secret from him, the game he is playing stops and penalties are called.


With new rules and new players on the ice, will Fallon and Lucas be able to work out their differences and work as a team or will they be left trying to score alone.






Toni Aleo returns with another emotion packed story for her sophomore novel. This review is gonna be difficult to keep spoiler free so be prepared to have a few fall from my fingers...Fallon has spent years believing that Lucas cheated on her. The decisions she has made in her life are all based on that one event. She has closed herself from all males, except one, her son. Aiden is Fallon's reason why for everything she does. For this reason, she refuses to give in to Lucas' charms for fear of him not only breaking her heart but Aiden's as well. Yes, Fallon is very stubborn to the point of want to shake her into submission but her reason's for it are understandable. By Lucas being calm, patient(ok~ so we wasn't always calm & patient, he persevered and never gave up), and persistent, he show Fallon that he IS the man she once believed him to be. Well, the improved Lucas. When they were together, Lucas had an alcohol problem, which lead to the situation that caused the breakup. 


Lucas and Fallon rely on their friends, Shea and Elli Adler, for guidance and support and for a slap upside the head when they're being too stubborn. It is always great to characters from previous books make an appearance. We first met Shea and Elli in Taking Shots. *sighing at the memory* Shea and Elli help Lucas and Fallon on the right path. Over time, Lucas gets a chance to show Fallon the man he is. Eventually, she believes that everything he has ever told her and felt for her is true. 


I have to give Trying to Score 5/5 stars. I loved the story. I loved the characters. I loved the reappearance of past characters. I loved the relationships. I loved... alright, I just loved the whole thing. I hope you will love it as much as I do.


Click here to read my review Toni's debut novel Taking Shots


Amazon
GoodReads
Toni Aleo

Want a free ecopy of Trying to Score?!

All you have to do is comment on my review or Toni's Q&A to enter!

Don't forget to leave your email so we can contact you!
You have until May 9, 2012 to enter.

Review- Pawn of Mine by Tabitha Vale

Pawn of Mine

by Tabitha Vale

The world never ended in fire and ice. The people were consumed by it and now control the elements. The Fires have harnessed the power down to an art while the Waters cower in fear of their abilities, remaining weak and hopeless. Seventeen-year-old Sage Sinclair hopes to dispel the weakness of her Water people because she knows that if she doesn’t do anything, no one will. When she discovers something special about herself, she seeks Humble Narcissist Ruler Agni in the great fire city, Saint Firefly. Once she gains his seal of approval, she’s admitted into Erra Academy where she secretly sparks a revolution among her ennui peers—a revolution to fight back against the Fires. She has every hope in her movement, just as long as her feelings for a handsome and frivolous Saffron Larkspur don’t get in the way—that, and Agni’s sudden fascination with her. (Published April 9, 2012)

I received a review from Tabitha for debut novel, Pawn of Mine. This isn't in a genre I would normally choose for myself but the premise sounded interesting so I thought "Why not?" I am glad I did. 

Sage Sinclair is a very strong and determined teenager. She gets herself admittance to the elite Erra Academy where she sets her plans of overthrowing the leadership of Agni. She meets some engaging characters along the way including Saffron, Zane, Hazel, and Analese. While at school, her family begins to suffer from dire circumstances that threatens to destroy everything Sage has worked so hard for. Pawn of Mine combines elements reminiscent of Harry Potter and Avatar: The Last Airbender into a magical creation all her own. 

My only true "gripe" about the book was the pacing. The book takes place over the course of a few weeks. Sage shows up to school and the next day she is trying to recruit members for her club to overthrow Agni. She also suddenly starts dating on of the most popular boys in school. Not necessarily a bad thing (I like romance and this was good) but it seemed to develop so quickly that it just felt rushed. There is wonderful character development but it seemed hasty. Personally, I would like to see things taken slightly slower. This does appear to be the first novel of a set and I will probably be reading the forth coming books. 

Overall, I found Pawn of Mine to be an entertaining and enjoyable read; therefore, I am rating it 4/5 Stars. 

Review- Out of the Ashes by Lori Dillon

Theirs was a love destined to be -- torn apart by the wrath of Vesuvius.

David and Sera are soul mates meant to be together, if only their bumbling guardian angels could do their job right...


Pompeii, AD 79 

First united in Pompeii as a privileged merchant's daughter and a slave gladiator, their young love is cut short when Vesuvius unexpectedly erupts. After several botched attempts, their angels get one final chance to bring the couple together and personally escort them back to war-torn Italy, nearly two thousand years later.

WWII, 1943

Sera is now an archeologist excavating the ruins of Pompeii. David is an American soldier masquerading as an Italian, sent to spy on the Germans camped near the ruins. With the help of their earth-bound angels, they soon find each other again as they excavate the ruins.

But will deception, the horrors of war, and the forgotten tragedy of their past lives, prevent them from unearthing the love of a lifetime?






The concept of a soul mate is nothing new in literature. Lori Dillon has taken that concept one step further. What if you guardian angels were responsible for you finding your soul mate and living happily ever after? Piece of cake, right?! You haven't meet Marsha and Hershel yet...

Review- The Vincent Boys by Abbi Glines

Being the good girl isn’t all it’s cracked up to be. Ashton Gray has grown weary of playing the part to please her parents, and to be worthy of the town’s prince charming, Sawyer Vincent. Maybe That’s why she’s found herself spending time with Sawyer’s cousin, Beau, while he’s away for the summer camping with his family. Beau is nothing like her perfect boyfriend. He’s the sexiest guy she’s ever seen, dangerous in ways she’s only day dreamed about, and the one guy she should stay away from. 
Beau never envied Sawyer his loving parents, his big nice home, or his position as quarterback. He loves him like a brother. Which is why he's tried everything in his power to keep his distance from Sawyer’s girlfriend. Even if he has loved her since the age of five, Ashton is Sawyer’s girl, so therefore she’s off limits. But when Sawyer leaves for the summer, Ashton, the one girl Beau would move Heaven and Earth for, decides she wants to get into trouble. Stabbing the one person who’s always accepted him and stood by him in the back, is the cost of finally holding Ashton Gray in his arms. Is she worth losing his cousin over?.... Hell Yeah.






Even though the title is The Vincent Boys, this centers around Ashton trying to figure herself out. She grew up with Sawyer and Beau and the three were inseparable as youngsters. Now, as teens, Ashton is struggling with who she is viewed as versus who she really is. She knows that coming to terms with who she is and choosing a life of happiness for herself will undoubtedly cause pain for others. Will she choose to make herself happy or continue the act to keep those around her happy? Of course, there is some major reckoning coming for The Boys as well.

Review- Because of Low

Because of Low by Abbi Glines

My rating: 5 of 5 stars


In Abbi Glines’s debut novel, Breathe, Sadie may have fallen in love with the teen rock star, Jax Stone, but readers fell head over heels for Marcus Hardy. This is his story…

Marcus Hardy had hoped to enjoy a year away at college while he put the summer he’d rather forget behind him. But instead, he’s jerked right back to the coastal town of Sea Breeze, Alabama due to a family crisis. His sister needs help dealing with their mother who is mentally falling apart. The only bright spot to returning is the fascinating red head that sleeps over several times a week. The problem is she's sleeping in bed with his new roommate, Cage Watson.

Willow “Low” Foster needs a place to live. Running to Cage’s apartment every time her sister kicks her out isn’t exactly a long term solution. Juggling her courses at the local community college and a part time job doesn’t produce excess income. But Cage has a new roommate and suddenly sleeping over at her best friend’s apartment isn’t such a bad thing.
Even though Cage seems a little territorial where Low is concerned, Marcus finds time to spend with Low without upsetting his roommate. Cage may sleep with every hot female in his path but he’s still under the disillusion that when he’s through sowing his wild oats, he’s going to marry Low. Marcus intends to change that assumption. When Marcus’s plans come crashing down, he’ll have to choose between Low and his family. Because once the truth comes out.... there’s no other choice. (Product description)

Low is a homeless older teen who gets to stay with her single mother sister when she babysits. The other nights to goes to Cage’s place. She’s been left to her own devices to care for herself. She does not trust anyone, except Cage. Since meeting Marcus, she begins to wonder if it is possible to find someone who will stay by her side.

Marcus, still reeling from last summer, is moody and upset over what he lost… until Low knocks on his door. He is immediately smitten but takes a step back after Cage, his new roommate, claims he and Low are going to get married. Marcus decides to take his chances with Cage and pursue Low. Until he believes that Low has committed the ultimate betrayal.

Even though you want to hate Cage for his behavior, he redeems himself by the way he cares for Low. He drops everything to be there for her when she needs him. She’s the only person he wants to care for.

Abbi Glines does it again. She weaves a story where nothing is as it seems. Once you think you have things figured out and know where everyone stands, she changes it up on you and you have to figure it out all over again. There is sweet and tender romance. There is heart break, betrayals, and misunderstandings. These are basically kids dealing with situations that most adults cannot handle. The characters were relatable and you understood their reactions. They were flawed and could admit that they were, which makes them even more lovable. It was also nice to see Jax and Sadie from Breathe. They are woven into the novel without becoming their own side story. I truly enjoyed the book and it will be placed on my favorites shelf to be read again.
Because of Low is great for young adult readers. There are sexual references but no actual content.

I own it.
I recommend for 13+ YA and Adult
5/5 GoodReads: It was amazing!

Review- Forever Mine

Forever Mine by Elizabeth Reyes




Seventeen-year old Sarah’s life is turned upside down when her single mom is sent to jail. She’s forced to move, leaving behind everything she’s ever known, including her best friend Sydney. Lost and bitter in a new school, her one goal is to save money and move back home. Then she meets Angel Moreno. 

Enigmatic but gorgeous, Angel is almost too good to be true. Except for one thing, his archaic belief that guys and girls can never be “just friends”. The problem? Sarah’s best friend Sydney is not a girl. 

With their unexpected romance intensifying to places neither ever experienced, how long can Sarah keep Angel in the dark about the guy waiting for her back home? (GoodReads & Amazon Descriptions)






This brought back the feelings and memories of your first love. The insecurities, the joy, the angst, the butterflies. While I did like Sarah, she seemed to be a little too timid and trusting. She did need to come clean about a few things long before she did. I can understand not wanting to give 100% disclosure on your entire life on your first date. However, that's no excuse for not coming clean.


Angel. What can I say about Angel? *sigh* He is your typical HS big man on campus. He hasn't had a steady girlfriend... he hasn't needed one or wanted one. Then Sarah comes along. She bring out the protective and alpha male side to Angel.  (I think it's because he is a guy and know how guys think...) He is very wary of any male showing any type of interest in Sarah.  He might not have always behaved the best but let's not forget how most guys are at 17. 

I believe Elizabeth Reyes wrote an excellent first novel. It was fun and (mostly) light-hearted. She laid the foundation for continuing the series on the Moreno Brothers.

Parts of their relationship do become rather intense and physical. Because of this and other mature situations, this book is for the Mature YA reader (I'd say 17ish and up).


I own a copy of the book
I would recommend for 17+ YA and Adult
5/5 GoodReads: It was amazing!

Review- Beautiful Disaster

Beautiful Disaster by Jamie McGuire

My rating: 5 of 5 stars


The new Abby Abernathy is a good girl. She doesn’t drink or swear, and she has the appropriate percentage of cardigans in her wardrobe. Abby believes she has enough distance between her and the darkness of her past, but when she arrives at college with her best friend America, her path to a new beginning is quickly challenged by Eastern University’s Walking One-Night Stand.

Travis Maddox, lean, cut, and covered in tattoos, is exactly what Abby needs—and wants—to avoid. He spends his nights winning money in a floating fight ring, and his days as the charming college co-ed. Intrigued by Abby’s resistance to his charms, Travis tricks her into his daily life with a simple bet. If he loses, he must remain abstinent for a month. If Abby loses, she must live in Travis’ apartment for the same amount of time. Either way, Travis has no idea that he has met his match. (GoodReads & Amazon Description)

I loved this book. I know I shouldn't, but I do.Abby was basically a strong independent woman who had a rough childhood and has moved across the country to get away from her past. She knows what she wants and what is acceptable. While Travis (I'll get to him in a second.) may not always act appropriately, Abby calls him on his bad behavior and learns to forgive as he learns self-control.

OK- Travis, Travis, Travis... as much as I should not like his beyond Alpha Male behavior, I must confess that he is one of my favorite heroes. (If not the favorite.) He is rude, crude, possessive, takes no prisoners and no holds are barred. He has always done what he needed to do to survive and makes no apologies for it. While he has a tendency towards violence, he NEVER directs it towards Abby. (Not that this is an excuse) But most of those he acted out towards knew is disposition and tendencies, yet they poked and prodded until he snapped. Because of his childhood, Travis doesn't think he is capable to care for a woman, let alone love one.

While there are many aspects of these characters and their relationship that are far from the ideal, however, it works for them. After learning more about each other and the events that shaped their character, they come to a deeper level of understanding, knowing that no one is perfect and both people must work to improve the relationship.

Overall Jamie McGuire's "Beautiful Disaster" was an awesome read that was heard to put down. I've had it for 8 days and already read it twice. This is NOT is typical lovey-dovey bubble gum romance. This is deep and hard hitting but, boy, does it hurt so good!

I own this book.
I would recommend this for 17+ YA and Adult
5/5 GoodReads: It was amazing

Review- Taking Shots

Taking Shots by Toni Aleo


In this standout debut novel from Toni Aleo, we see how insecurities from the past can effect our future. Elli Fisher has been hurt, emotionally and physically, by former loves and her family. After overcoming a medical issues, she stood on her own for so long that she doesn't quite know how to trust others and believe that their intentions are honest... which is where Shea Adler comes in. He is smitten from the beginning but has a difficult time getting past Elli's insecurities. He uses all the tools a his disposal to win her- his wit & charm, his sister, and her friend.


Elli is a real woman... she's not blond and a size four! I can actually put myself in her shoes because she is real. She's had major issues that she tries to keep hidden but, like the rest of us, her problems surface more often than she would like.

Shea... what can I say about Shea. He is what we all hope (and dream) a professional athlete can be. He's hot and sexy. He's charming and sensitive. He's shy and humble. He's confident and knows what he wants, he wants Elli.

This was an awesome read. The pacing was nice and even. You felt anxious for Elli & Shea to get where you wanted them to go but it wasn't rushed. I've read some books where the h/h fall in love and are engaged within a week. Like that's realistic. "Taking Shots" has the feel of a real life romance with all it's ups and downs. Shea and Elli also show real emotions. They laugh. They cry. Most importantly, they have fun together (like at the Dance-Off at Shea's condo... you'll know when you get there). There is also a great side story between the best friends.
It is a slightly longer book, which I enjoy, as a can finish a Harlequin size novel in less than a day sometimes. This took me two.

All in all, an awesome book. One of my favorite. Cannot wait for "Trying to Score" to release in April 2012.

I own this book.
I would recommend for Adult.
5/5 Stars- GoodReads: It was amazing!

Review- Perfect Chemistry

Perfect Chemistry by Simone Elkeles


"A fresh, urban twist on the classic tale of star-crossed lovers.

When Brittany Ellis walks into chemistry class on the first day of senior year, she has no clue that her carefully created "perfect" life is about to unravel before her eyes. She's forced to be lab partners with Alex Fuentes, a gang member from the other side of town, and he is about to threaten everything she's worked so hard for?her flawless reputation, her relationship with her boyfriend, and the secret that her home life is anything but perfect. Alex is a bad boy and he knows it. So when he makes a bet with his friends to lure Brittany into his life, he thinks nothing of it. But soon Alex realizes Brittany is a real person with real problems, and suddenly the bet he made in arrogance turns into something much more.

In a passionate story about looking beneath the surface, Simone Elkeles breaks through the stereotypes and barriers that threaten to keep Brittany and Alex apart."    Amazon product description.

------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

On the first day of school in Chemistry, Alex and Brittany look at each other through the eyes of prejudice and stereotype. As the year progresses, they slowly start peeling away the layers of their public persona and begin to see the true person underneath. Mixing their two worlds seemed insurmountable but their strength, determination, and faith in each other overcame the odds.

Awesome book! I cried. I laughed! (the bathroom scene during the wedding had me laughing so hard I was crying) I felt sorrow, pain, and rejection. I was delighted and happy to see two teens rise above it all. This book had it all.

I own a copy.
I would definitely recommend it for Mature YA and Adult Contemporary!
5/5- GoodReads: It was amazing