Coveted

  

New Releases January 2015

2

Who is Mackie Spence? by Lin Kaymer

6
All the Bright Place by Jennifer Niven
Atlantis Rising by Gloria Craw
The Boy in the Black Suit by Jason Reynolds
The Boy Next Door by Katie Van Ark
City 1 by Gregg Rosenblum 
Dead of Winter by Kresley Cole
Deep Sea by Annika Thor 
Ensnared by A.G. Howard 
Firefight by Brandon Sanderson
For Valentine's by by Kat and Stone Bastion
Frostfire by Amanda Hocking
Golden Son by Pierce Brown 
Ghosts of Heaven by Marcus Sedgwick 
Gone to Far by Natalie Richards
Hold Tight, Don't Let Go by Laura Rose Wagner 
Infected by Sophie Littlefield 
Make It Last by Megan Erickson 
Reborn by Jennifer Rush
Save Me by Jenny Elliott 
There Will Be Lies by Nick Lake 
Vivian Apple at the End of the World by Katie Coyle 
Willowgrove by Kathleen Peacock 
X by Ilyasah Shabazz and Kekla Magoon 
  
8
Audacity by Melanie Crowder
The Law of Loving Others by Kate Axelrod
Tracers by J.J. Howard

13
Blackout by Meredith McCardle 
Broken Skies by Theresa Kay 
The Conspiracy of Us by Maggie Hall 
The Darkest Part of the Forest by Holly Black
Killing Time in Crystal City by Chris Lynch
Perfect Couple by Jennifer Echols
Unmade by Amy Rose Capetta 
When by Victoria Laurie 

19
Ward Against Disaster by Melanie Card 

20
All Fall Down by Ally Carter 
Burned by Karen Marie Moning  
Fight for Power by Eric Walters 
The Five Stages of Andrew Brawley by Shaun Hutchinson
Mayhem by Jamie Shaw
Mutant City by Steve Feasey 
The Prey by Tom Isbell
Tunnel Vision by Susan Adrian 
Twisted Fate by Nancy Olson
The Web by Megan Chance 

22 
The Way We Bared Our Souls by Willa Strayhorn

27
Beneath by Roland Smith 
Burning Nation by Trent Reedy 
Bound by Flames  by Jeaniene Frost  
Chaos by Lanie Bross 
A Cold Legacy by Megan Shepherd 
Cut Me Free by J.R. Johansson
The Empty Throne by Cayla Kluver
The End of Feeling by Cindy C. Bennett 
Fairest by Marissa Meyer
I was Here by Gail Forman
I'm Glad I Did by Cynthia Weil 
Love, Lucy by April Lindner 
Playlist for the Dead by Michelle Falkoff 
Tear You Apart by Sarah Cross
Woven by Michael Jensen & David Powers King
Zombified by Adam Gallardo






There are quite a few book releases we looking forward to.. Nav and Ella can't wait to get their hands on Firefight, while Den thinks that Mayhem is a must read and is looking forward to reading Reborn, Lu is most likely going to read Burned ...

AND we doing a Book of the Week:

Despite being totally disappointed by the second book, Deniz will read Dead of Winter this weekend. Join her?!

Review: Two Lies and a Spy by Kat Carlton

Two Lies and a Spy

Author: Kat Carlton
Publisher: Simon & Schuster
Series: Two Lies and a Spy #1
Pages: Hardcover, 256 pages
Genre: Young Adult
Release Date: month 1, 2013

Summary:

Kari plunges into the world of espionage on a mission to save her parents while trying to impress the guy she’s been in love with forever.

When sixteen-year-old Kari’s dad sends her an unexpected text, she and her brother immediately go into hiding. Because when your parents are superspies and your dad declares a Code Black, it can only mean something bad. Very bad.

Kari soon discovers that her parents have been disavowed and declared traitors, and she’s determined to clear their names. Breaking into the Agency seems like a reasonable plan, especially with the help of a team that includes her longtime crush, Luke, as well as her two best friends—an expert hacker with attitude and a master martial artist—and Luke’s popular, vindictive twin sister. Oh, and a new guy, who’s as cute as he is complicated...

Review:

To be honest when I started this book I was thinking: Oh dear this is going to be another spy kids!
But I am pleased to say: well it isn't.
Yeah the main thread evolves parent spies, and the plot is a huge adventure spun around finding them, but this I am glad to say is better. Way better.

I seriously enjoyed reading this. It's fun, exhilarating and thrilling.
I read it in one sitting. The non-stop action told from Kari's POV.

Thought there were moments, that were kinda bordering impossible at the time. I never actually sat up and remarked it. I read on, and things fell into place, making the plot acceptable. The plot is non-stop action. It walks the fine line of total ridiculous and believable extremely well. Which is what makes this so entertaining. I gotta say that I was not surprised about any of the twists- in fact I saw them coming. But it didn't matter.

The story was so well told, which is what kept me on my toes. The writing style is contemporary and fun. Not super-descriptive or beautiful, it's to the point; fitting to the fast paced story line, and the person who tells it. It makes this a pleasure to read.

While some of the side characters were kinda cliche, I loved the gang. Kari's worries and emotions were relatable and believable. I adore Evan btw!

My biggest issue was the end, it wasn't only predictable, it felt too sudden and too convenient. The villain was a tad bit too much for my taste.

I am looking forward to reading the next book in the series!


Rating: 

(click on the name for reviews of this geek)

 

BotW

Sadly we all kinda caught up with "Real Life". Somehow we all got thrown with heavy workloads, at the same time. Rather impractical when it comes to our reading lives, but unavoidable.
We decided to still do as many reviews as we can, but something had to give. And after discussing it, we all agreed the book of the week will have to have a little rest....
Which means we won't be doing any book of the week reading until April
Sorry, about that! We hope we will be back on board in April and we will be able to have a BotW regularly after our little break.

BotW: Greed by Fisher Amelie

Greed

Author: Fisher Amelie
Publisher: Fisher Amelie
Series: The Seven Deadly #2
Pages: Kindle Edition, 351 pages
Genre: New Adult
Release Date: October 29, 2013

Summary:
Gather ‘round, love, because I want you. I want what you have, I want what you don’t have, I want more of what I already have. I want. But if you so much as ask for something in return, go ahead and walk away. Know if you want to play in my world, it’s every man for themselves and the weak become mine. Leeches will be obliterated because I make it my job to destroy them. I protect what’s mine and I take what’s yours…because that’s what I do. I want.

My story will not endear me to you and, frankly, I could care less if it does because I’m in this for the money and nothing else. There’s nothing redeeming about me. I’m a corrupt, money hungry, immoral asshole from Los Angeles. I’m every man’s worst nightmare and every girl’s fantasy.

I’m Spencer Blackwell…And this is the story about how I went from the world’s most coveted guy to the guy no one wanted around and why I wouldn’t trade it for anything in the world

Review:

For the third time this week, I find myself unsure of how to rate a book. Sadly Greed isn't a 4,5Star book and I am pondering if I should round up or down like the other two were.

Now you probably think, well she was not sure about Vain as well. And you would be right.
Then you would probably think, so why read Greed. Well, I had to- might not be the answer you looking for? But it's true. Just let me say this while we at it, I will be reading Fury as well.
I know. Trust me, I KNOW! Because here I am frustrated. Because how do you write a review about a book that kinda annoyed you for first 40%, then at 60% you felt a bit bored, at 80% you still didn't kinda know why you were reading it ( I told myself it was the BotW, that's why) AND then at 86% Fisher throws twists at you, and you can't breath. Maybe, you suddenly notice with dismay, you might like the MC? Then it all unravels and comes together. And at 95% you grumble to yourself, cause it's to happy clappy for your taste. The epilogue, though it's sweet, kinda makes you crinch, because let's face it we all know I am kinda jaded and that shit is just to much for my hardass heart to bear (but shh do not tell, I still am kinda glad it was put there). You feel it was a tad to preachy at the end as well... And to round it all off you puzzled as to how to rate it.
So how do you write a review? But more importantly how do you rate a book like that?
(since apparently I just ramble on, boring the crap out of everyone and call it a review, the first question answered itself)
Then there is the question why would I read the third book of the series.
Well, let's take a look at Greed shall we?

This is well written. For writing style Fisher would get 4 Stars from me. She is a good storyteller that, for the second time around, managed to captivate me, despite my reservations.
I love the idea of the series. Enjoyed the settings of them.

But my issues are more plot related and character related.
See though the MC goes through a great change and growth, I really didn't like Spencer much. I liked him in Vain, but loathed him in Greed for most of the book. I mean, I got his heartache, (except for the instalove bit- which kinda annoys me as always) because as I said Fisher writes superbly. I felt his pain, his devastation, his revulsion. Totally got that. I couldn't stand his whining at the beginning and all his excuses. And last but not least I really was annoyed about
him pursuing Cricket.
Cricket, though supposedly oh so amazing. Was annoying the hell out of me. Can you say spineless? Make a freakn choice girl and stick with it, damnit!
Bridge was sweet- but I don't feel like I actually got to know her, same about Jonah
And the grandparents? Can you say the Waltons?
If you take a step back and look at all the characters, they all a bit cliche and stereotype - again. But I think that didn't bug me as much this time around as it did last time.

My issue this time is the story line.
I mean nothing really happens in the first third, then Spence is busy trying to win Cricket, which I should mention pissed me off, he had no place pursuing her. Then it's the first twist. I wasn't really surprised about that, second twist is saw coming from a mile. Third twist, DUDE! WTH! I nearly gave me a heart attack! (and miss jaded over here would have loved that solution as an ending btw) the forth and fifth twist had me yawning. It was like, ugh we gonna just drag the inevitable ending out for a couple of chapters more, ok? And yes, of course I gobbled it up along with the epilogue. Because damnation! Did I mention Fisher can write?

So I here I am, wondering how to rate something, that annoyed, frustrated, bored and yet, captivated, entertained and moved me (too all kinds of emotions). AND I am planning to read the next novel and not just because of the cover. Did you see the cover? Damn! *fans herself* Yes I can be a cover slut and trust me I am not sad at all that Greed and Fury have these really really nice to look at covers. No, no, I wanna know what happens to Ethan. Oh and I should mention, I don't like him, AT ALL. Yep, you guessed it, I am blaming it on Fisher's writing!

My verdict? Well I think, it's a good book I guess...sooo a generous 3Stars -because Fisher knows how to write!


Rating: 

(click on the name for reviews of this geek)


Find a little extra special about Spence on Fisher Amelie's Blog

BotW 6: Dirty Magic by Jaye Wells

Dirty Magic

Author: Jaye Wells
Publisher: Orbit
Series: The Prospero's War #1
Pages: Paperback, 381 pages
Genre: Urban Fantasy
Release Date: January 21, 2014

Summary:
The first in an all-new urban fantasy series by USA Today bestseller Jaye Wells.

The last thing patrol cop Kate Prospero expected to find on her nightly rounds was a werewolf covered in the blood of his latest victim. But then, she also didn't expect that shooting him would land her in the crosshairs of a Magic Enforcement Agency task force, who wants to know why she killed their lead snitch.

The more Prospero learns about the dangerous new potion the MEA is investigating, the more she's convinced that earning a spot on their task force is the career break she's been wanting. But getting the assignment proves much easier than solving the case. Especially once the investigation reveals their lead suspect is the man she walked away from ten years earlier—on the same day she swore she'd never use dirty magic again.

Kate Prospero's about to learn the hard way that crossing a wizard will always get you burned, and that when it comes to magic, you should be never say never.

Review:

I feel kind divided about this one. Because there were some awesome parts and some things that grated one me.
It was also interesting to see the reactions of my GR friends. Their ratings were just as divided. Some people enjoyed it others just found it annoying.

Let's start with the prose because that's in the middle for me. It's well written and enjoyable but I wouldn't describe it as amazing writing style.

The plot was fun. Never a dull moment. There was always something happening. 400pages of action. There were some fun twist and turns, and though none surprised me, I enjoyed the ride. I was worried about a love triangle coming up- well I still am worried that one will come up...

The world building was brilliant. Seriously! I loved the idea of dirty magic, magic addicts, the caldrons- just down my alley.

The character building, well sadly not my favorite part. I found Kate annoying. Well, not at first but as the book went on- her stubbornness just grated on me. I can't stand the whole black and white view she has. And her bravado and pride kinda didn't help that one.
All the other characters were a bit cliche and rather done before. New hot partner, rebellious darling bro, stuck-up boos and the bestie, well you name them, not only weren't they done before, they also didn't brake the mould throughout the story. As the story progresses not a single character did any growth or change or made me see them in a different light.

Though this has finished a chapter of a part of a story- it did feel like the set up for the next book.

But all in all I did enjoy this. It's fast, it's kickass and it's entertaining. I actually think this would be a cool tv series- bit of dark angel, a dash of sin city and a good portion of alias- always my cup of tea ;)
I am planning to read the next one.
This is for lovers of the genre who are looking for some action and fun world building.


Rating: 

(click on the name for reviews of this geek)

The next book of the week is Greed by Amelie Fisher! And though we adore the cover, we promise it has nothing very little to do with the choice.

BotW 5

Book of the Week for this weekend is Two Lies and a Spy by Kat Carlton

A suggestion by Margot

BotW 4

This Weekend we are reading Life in Outer Space by Melissa Keil

Rachel suggested it, and we totally are planning to blame her if we don't like it ;)

Joining us? 

 

BotW 3: Bunny and the Bear by Eve Langlais

 Bunny and the Bear by Eve Langlais




Publisher: Eve Langlais
Series: Furry United Coalition #1
Pages: ebook, 162 pages
Genre: PNR
Release Date: August 11, 2011
Summary:
What’s a poor bear to do when all he wants is some sweet, bunny pie? 

Bears and bunnies aren’t supposed to mix, or that’s what Chase keeps telling himself when his bouncy new neighbor won’t stay out of his business—and his mind. However, the more he gets to know his overly perky neighbor, the more he craves her—naked in his grasp—a desire worse than his addiction to honey and pie. 

Miranda’s on a mission for the Furry United Coalition, and it involves secretly guarding one grumpy ol’ bear. Staying focused on the job isn’t easy when all she can think about is turning his frown upside down, a task made harder when she gets a glimpse of his passion. When she hears about his theory on woodland creatures and predators not mixing, she thinks all is lost, but she didn’t count on a bear’s curious nature—and possessive need. 

When an evil force abducts Chase, Miranda unleashes her bunny in order to save him, but the revelation of her shifter side puts her in danger. Is one ornery bear enough to save her from a mad scientist? And if he does, can a bear forget her woodland creature status long enough to love her and make her his mate? 

Warning: Pies were harmed in the making of this story and naughty references made about honey that might offend some readers

Rating: 

Review:

***This review is an early birthday present to a dear friend and contains a lot of dirty language and quotes. I would strongly recommend you not to read this review.***

EDIT: Since I forgot to mention, Geri, my other darling friend, who was the one to recommend we do a buddy read of this book for our friend Alisa's birthday, I hope you enjoy the review. :P

Once in your lifetime you come across something you never imagined yourself doing. But then you take it all in stride and do it nonetheless, with all the bravery you can muster. This book has been one of that once in a lifetime experience for me and well, it didn’t suck as much as I thought it would.

The title and the cover says it all, doesn’t it? But if you need the plot of the story, it goes like this. Once upon a time there was an organization called the FUC (Furry United Coalition). *cue awkward silence*
*clears throat* FUC was a secret organization in the human world that protected the shape-shifters without their knowledge. Think of them as CIA for the furry shape-shifters. But here’s a funny thing, they even had reptile shifters, which is weird since it’s called Furry and reptiles don’t have fur. Anyway, ignoring the discriminating factor and getting back to the story, there have been disappearances among the shifters by some unknown villain (whose identity is not even revealed at the end) and this has got the FUC a serious case to crack. Our female protagonist, Miranda, a hybrid, saber-toothed bunny is assigned to protect a grizzly bear called Chase Brownsmith as he’s suspected to be the next victim.

I was surprised by the existence of a plot but what makes this story feel like reading a porn movie’s script is the conversation, interaction and actions of the bear and the bunny (Even if it is a porn movie with a plot, it’s still porn). The first time they meet, the bouncy, bubbly bunny is wearing shorts short enough to let the grouchy, irritable bear know that she shaves, which predictably gives him a hard on so strong that he fears his pants would tear off. Err.. quite the mental image after reading like ten lines, eh?



Anyway, the bunny pretty much stalks the bear while having thoughts of getting pounded by him constantly. Meanwhile, the bear can’t stop himself from fantasizing about his so-called delectable honey bun.



The bear tries to behave a lot, by keeping his boner in check.



But the bunny is a naughty little vixen according to the grizzly.



But here’s the plot twist: the bear doesn’t want to interbreed because he wants to keep his lineage pure. The bunny is hurt, obviously. Bunnies have feelings you stupid hairy bear!

He tries to keep his vow for like 50% of the book. There’s only kissing till then. He breaks when he gets kidnapped after someone drugs his morning honey buns (and he’s supposed to be a bear with a great nose *snorts*) and his neighbor bunny rescues him, showing off her freaky bunny skills.

I swear, by that point I was convinced that all the bunny could do was this:



But actually that bunny turned out to be more of this:



Finally, when the bear has been rescued and has patched up the hurt, burnt and shot bunny, the inevitable happens. They do it. And then there’s no stopping them.

They keep on doing it. And doing it. And.Doing.IT.
It wasn’t as disgusting as I had braced myself for (view spoiler) but their dirty talking made me go like:






All in all, I finished it without losing a huge chunk of my sanity. In fact, I enjoyed a good laugh here and there because of the ridiculousness of it all. Here are a few lines from the story for you to enjoy:


“Somehow he didn’t think gagging her with his cock was the way to chastise her”




“No, but he knew a sweet pastry he’d like to taste” 



"And what about her full hips made for bearing cubs?”



“Mmm, Chase. What a fabulous name. I bet you get girls asking you all the time to chase them through the woods.” 



After a while, I stopped noticing such things and just went along with the flow you know?

Agreed, my expression was all like this during the smut:



It wasn’t a very terrible or awkward read after all.

2 stars.

(click on the name for reviews of this geek)