It makes no earthly sense how another person can do this. Not even with words, just touches. Just looks. He just looks at me and I feel simult
It makes no earthly sense how another person can do this. Not even with words, just touches. Just looks. He just looks at me and I feel simultaneously like myself and someone else, like I’m here and I’m not, like everything and nothing.
Every once in a while you come across a book that was only supposed to be a filler. You pick it up, don’t expect much, and you just want something to pass the time until a book you REALLY want comes out. And there are times when those books serve their purpose, where you’re content and don’t think anything of it after finishing because the story fulfilled the part of you it needed to. And then, sometimes, those books you could care less about become something much, much more.
I’ll be frank: I read this book right when it came out. Wasn’t that like…a month ago? I feel like it was forever ago, yet I think about it frequently. I’ll also wholly admit that I forget some things about it. Does that mean I 徱’t love it as much as I had originally thought? Perhaps…but I don’t think so. I still remember things that made me smile. I still remember how sweet Wallace was, how he 徱’t speak often-but when he did, it was worth every moment he 徱’t. I still remember being nervous, anxious, awaiting the big reveal and inevitable blow up. And, ya know, I still remember how it made me feel.
I’ll be the first to acknowledge that I slapped a 4 star rating on Zappia’s previous novel, Made You Up, yet I don’t think it deserved it, from my standpoint. I never got wholly into it, I found it hard to completely connect to, and I 徱’t LOVE IT-but I also 徱’t know how to rate it. With this novel? I knew. I knew immediately. Where MYU 徱’t have anything I really connected to, EAHM was like a fairy tale of nerdiness made just for moi.
rainmaker: Weird, I 徱’t know you had such a thing for timid guys. MirkerLurker: Really does it for me when a guy is paralyzed with fear on a regular basis. rainmaker: Aw. Sad. MirkerLurker: What’s sad? rainmaker: That it would never work between us. I’m too courageous.
Recently I’ve found that online romances are stealing my heart-as I stated in my AA review, '2017, the year of the YA Romance cyber stalkers', is my most recent obsession, and it has been my favorite type of book to read this year. There’s just something so touching to me about reaching out, taking a chance, imagining what it would be like to meet that certain someone who just GETS you…but not knowing who they are or what they look like. I mean, with each new relationship you engage in on the internet, there’s a huge risk (We’ve all seen Catfish, am I right?).
So yeah, these online stories are crazy and zany and have that touch of unbelievability…but that’s what makes it fun. And I guess what I’m saying is: I just have a major connection to this type of story and can’t help but to become all fangirlish when I pick up one of these books-they are so far and few between, and it’s an extreme happiness I feel when I finally find one-because, frankly, even though the realistic factor is low, online/meet-in-real-life-without-knowing-it books have tended to be the most heart-wrenching, soul-crushing, addicting, and unforgettable stories of the year.
Sully and Church stuff their gangly selves in the backseat of my car so Wallace can sit in the passenger seat. “No hanky panky up there,� Sully says. “Yeah,� Church adds. “If I see a hand cross those seats, it will get smacked.� “Smacked?� Sully says. “If I see a hand cross those seats, I’ll chop it off and burn it.�
So, let’s do a quick look at this book and why it worked for me…it’s quite simple actually. In a lot of ways, I found our main character’s problems mirroring my own. No, I’m not an EXTREME introvert like Eliza, and NO I most likely wouldn’t have led our main man on, but I could see similarities: Her attitude, the way she handled problems, the passion she feels when in her own world, creating…there was more, but I won’t lie, I am foggy on all the details :/ One of the numerous downsides to waiting so long to write a review. But, anyway, I really liked her character even though she made a few mistakes I 徱’t agree with.
And I will also go so far as to say Wallace made a huge error, as well, in the end�.but I have to wonder if it would have stood out so glaringly if I hadn’t read about it in a review before I started. Sometimes we learn something, like an out of character moment, before we pick up a book, so we look for it, and I think that’s what happened here. It upsets me because I am so easily influenced, and even after I say that, here I am doing the same thing to all of you�.so, sorry in advance. My point in saying all that was to point out that Wallace wasn’t without his flaws, even though I adored him 95% of the story.
I loved how they had each other’s backs. I loved that they found a connection through her writing. I loved that they became fast friends after she stood up for him. And I loved everything about the two of them. This story touched me in the weirdest way, and I just haven’t forgotten about it, even for a minute.
I will admit I am upset and mad at myself…I started this review two weeks ago. I was halfway done with it when I got interrupted, so I thought I’d finish it later. But this doesn’t work for me. I’m the type of person who has to write a review right when I am feeling it, and once I lose that flow, it’s gone. All of my spunk, all of my originality, and my whole train of thought. Add to that my bad mood I’ve had the last two weeks and here we are-I’m finally just writing the review to ‘get it over with� and I lost my happiness while writing it-the whole reason I began writing it in the first place. Plus, I haven’t slept well for a week. SO UGH. I hate that this is the watered down review I was on the way to writing, but at least now I can post it and move on-next time I’m writing a review for an instant favorite, I will refuse to pause or just plain wait. Sometimes that same mood or perfect moment doesn’t come around again, so I have learned that lesson the hard way. I just wish it wasn’t for this particular book. But just know: this book is worth all the stars and I endorse it 100%. It’s amazing and I hope all my friends will love it. �
“You hate me so much, and I can’t take it much longer.� I’m pathetic. I hear it in my voice. ٳǰٳ.� “Stop calling me Shortcake.� I try to
“You hate me so much, and I can’t take it much longer.� I’m pathetic. I hear it in my voice. ٳǰٳ.� “Stop calling me Shortcake.� I try to roll onto my side but he presses the heels of his palms lightly against my shoulders. I stop breathing. “Watching you pretend to hate that nickname is the best part of my day.�
I think it’s been long enough-I am just sitting down, taking the time, and finally writing a review for one of my favorite contemporaries ever. You’ll rarely see me read a contemporary, and the reason for that is it’s so hard to impress me in this genre. I don’t like cheesy, I don’t like over-the-top, and I certainly don’t like when it doesn’t feel authentic.
“Mustard today,� I observe aloud. Why do I poke the hornet’s nest? “Just can’t wait for baby blue on Monday.� The look he gives me is both smug and irritated. “You notice so much about me, Shortcake. But can I remind you that comments about appearance are against the B& G human resources policy.� Ah, the HR Game. We haven’t played this one in ages. “Stop calling me Shortcake or I’ll report you to HR.�
So, here I am, ignoring this brightly covered book on my feed, and months pass. When, all of the sudden, hey, one of my best friends starts gushing about how giddy it makes her. Naturally, I’m curious. I’m always, always looking for the next amazing contemporary, and I desperately need it at this time in my life.
I decide to give a try, my friend gifts it to me (dawww), and the rest is history. From the moment I picked this book up-literally-I was done for. The sarcastic looks, the not-so-nasty banter, and every little thing in between…this book has it all. But, most of all�It has Joshua Templeman
“So this is what sex with you would be like.� I can’t resist teasing him. “I was hoping you’d participate a little more.� He finally says something. “I’d participate. So well, you wouldn’t walk straight the next day.�
Where do I even begin??? Joshua wassss…everything. He was smart. He was attractive. He was…well, I can’t say, can I? Because, as far as you know, he’s a complete prick who makes Lucy’s life a living hell.
I don’t like big guys. They’re too much like horses. They could trample you if you got underfoot. He is auditing my appearance with the same narrowed eyes that I am. I wonder what the top of my head looks like. I’m sure he only fornicates with Amazons. Our stares clash and maybe comparing them to an ink stain was a tad too harsh. Those eyes are wasted on him.
These two got off on the wrong foot, and however that may have happened, it did. So every day they play their games, they are antagonistic towards one another, causing nothing but problems and HR issues. In fact, even the HR rep is sick of their shit (omg it’s so funny, the messages they send about one another to HR-it’s even a ‘safe word’…later on :P).
So why was this book so cute? Do you ever just want to get away? To escape real life and just laugh? To smile, to giggle, to swoon, to just know that when you pick up your book, you are immediately in for a wonderful treat and an out of this reality read? Well, this is that book.
See, I’ve been pregnant since July, and I know I mention it a lot, but it’s a big player in my life-for more than the obvious reason. Now that I am finally, finally past the sickness part (5 months, people. FIVE.), I find that I get depressed…A LOT. Very very much. So, it’s harder to know my mood when picking out a book. So, naturally, when I find a book that literally takes my breath away, makes me smile even when, moments before, I had been bawling or crying or deep within myself brooding or upset or extremely hurt for no apparent reason, I’m going to hold onto it like a life raft after the Titanic hit the iceberg. And perhaps I DID have a reason that day or moment to be depressed, who knows? My point is…this book? It made me giddier than anything has in a very long time. And that is why, a month later almost, I still smile when I think of this book and am forcing myself to write a review-it brought me out from the darkness.
And, if you 徱’t gather already, I pick this book up frequently, looking at all my favorite parts, all my highlights, all the funniest or swooniest or sexiest quotes. It simply makes me happy. The transition from bickering, resilient, resentful co-workers, to reluctant friends, to a somewhat new relationship was so heartwarming-my heart swelled so many times it was almost unbearable. But I guess that’s what happens when two people who are clearly meant to be together finally connect.
His smile is worth a thousand of anyone else’s. I need a photograph. I need something to hold on to. I need this entire bizarre planet to stop spinning so I can freeze this moment in time. What a disaster.
This book wasn’t without its issues, sure, but the issues were so minuscule, so insignificant, so small…you just don’t care. And I know I said I wouldn’t say anything, but you must know-Josh is an instant book boyfriend for a reason. He is sweet. He is selfless. He is kind. He is caring�.and he’s fucking lonely-Just like Lucy. He’s grumpy. Stiff. All about doing everything right�.he’s a ‘by the book� type of guy…but he’s the most loyal man you’ll ever meet.
It sounds like the first time he’s spoken those words. He looks at the ground, miserable. I creep closer to him. Another weird kaleidoscopic twist? His hurt makes my own heart hurt.
And Lucy? She’s spunky. Sweet. Clingy. And, truth be told…she’s ferocious. I loved this about her. She 徱’t take shit, but it doesn’t mean she doesn’t hurt inside, that she isn’t extremely lonely and vulnerable. She reminded me so much of…well, me. No, I wouldn’t push someone away like Josh as much as she did (see above-this book isn’t without its fair share of issues) and I wouldn’t be so body hungry when its clear it hurts the other person, but in general, I saw a lot of myself…and that’s always so fun. To top it all off, I just love when the people she adores get attacked…just-you better watch out, is all I’ll say. Me-OW.
“So. Nervous?� “Why would I be?� “Your big date, Shortcake. You haven’t had one in a while. As long as I’ve known you, I think.� He indicates quotation marks with his fingers at big date. He’s positive it’s all a lie. “I’m way too picky.� He steeples his fingers so hard it looks painful. “Really.� “Such a complete drought of eligible men here.� “That’s not true.� “You’re searching for your own eligible bachelor?� “I—no—shut up.�
So, it should say something that I am writing this review three weeks later, or more. I don’t do that. Once I close the final page on a book and finish another book, I begin to push previous books into the back of my mind. Like…who cares? After a certain amount of time, no one wants to hear my thoughts anymore. Honestly, people might never want to hear them period (sorry, you’ll hear them whether you want to or not). But hey, that’s what ŷ is for, right?
“I’d better get to bed.� I’m talking to my parents. I’m also gently cleaning the two-dollar eBay Smurf I got a few weeks back with a baby’s toothbrush. Law & Order is on in the background and they are currently pursuing a false lead. I’ve got a white clay mask on my face and my toenail polish is drying.
So, yeah, I get the hype surrounding this one. And, frankly, I don’t know everyone else’s motive for loving this story, I only know mine. It may not be everyone’s idea of perfect�.but it’s my happy place…and that’s more than enough for me. It’s perfection.
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Literally one of my favorite things ever!!!!! This book was so good it's unreal-It made my week shine in technicolor and there wasn't one moment I didn't have my hands covering my mouth giddy and squeeing in delight.
I CANNOT WAIT TO WRITE A REVIEW AFTER XMAS EEPS!!!! Can I have a Joshua for Christmas??? PLEASE??!
Buddy reading this gem with my partner in trust bone crime.
Thank you for the Xmas gift Britt!!! I AM LOVING THIS SO FAR. I was depressed but I find I have a spring in my step all of a sudden......more
Soooo I finished this one way before Carve the Mark, but haven't had a chance to type out the quotes yet-But, even if the quotes don't represent it ve Soooo I finished this one way before Carve the Mark, but haven't had a chance to type out the quotes yet-But, even if the quotes don't represent it very well, this book is my ABSOLUTE FAVORITE BY FAR!!!! And, if I gave you every single swoony quote, there'd be no point in reading, right?! So...here you go. :P
Shane stood up when he saw her, which made her heart turn cartwheels, and he pulled out her chair. Eve and Michael shared an amused look. “So cute,� Eve said. When Shane glared, she smiled. “No, really. It is. Dude, chill.�
“Night,� she said, and watched him walk toward the door. “Hey. How’d you get in?� He wiggled his fingers at her in a spooky oogie-boogie pantomime. “I’m a vampire. I have secret powers,� he said with a full-on fake Transylvanian accent, which he dropped to say, “Actually, your mom let me in.� ٱdzܲ? My mom? Let you in my room? In the middle of the night?� He shrugged. “Moms like me.�
It sounded like tigers fighting, and as she backed up from the snarls and howls and sounds of bodies slamming around, the boards of the fence broke again, and a white hand—not Myrnin’s, this was a woman’s—clawed the air. Reaching for Claire. “I’ve changed my mind,� Myrnin called. He sounded eerily normal. “Do go on and run, Claire. I’ll catch up. This may take a few moments.�
“That doesn’t explain why she bit me!� Claire said. Myrnin blinked. “Blood is the fuel that drives the engine, my dear. As with us all. Ada requires regular infusions of blood to operate.� “You never heard of plugging her in My God, Myrnin, you made a vampire computer?�
“As safe as anyone is in Morganville,� he said, which really wasn’t an answer. He stopped and leaned against a wall and closed his eyes. “Claire. I’m afraid. . . .� “W?� He shook his head. “I’m just afraid. And that’s rare. That’s so very rare.�
“I understand.� She did, but Claire still felt heartsick. “Does he ask—� “Shane asks about you every day,� Richard said very quietly. “Every single day. I think that boy might really love you. And I never thought I’d be saying that about Shane Collins.�
Basically, this series is my life right now. Ahhh Shane....my baby � Here are some quotes from the book that either made my heart melt, cracked me up, Basically, this series is my life right now. Ahhh Shane....my baby � Here are some quotes from the book that either made my heart melt, cracked me up, or just made me fall harder for Shane and Claire :P
"Hope you like the underwear you have on; I 徱’t go through your drawers.� “Afraid it might get you all turned on?� Shane asked from over her shoulder. “Please say yes.� He grabbed a pair of his own jeans from the pile. “And please stay out of my closet.� Eve gave him the finger. “If you’re worried about me finding your porn stash, old news, man. Also, you have really boring taste.�
He nodded to them, took her hands, and looked into her eyes. Say it, she thought. But he 徱’t. He just kissed her hands, turned, and walked away, dragging her red, bleeding heart with him—metaphorically, anyway.
“Got your back, Shane.� “Watch Claire’s and Eve’s. I’ll take the lead.� “What about me?� Monica whined. “Do you really want to know?� Shane gave her a glare that should have scorched her hair off. “Be grateful I’m not leaving you as an after-dinner mint on his pillow.� Myrnin leaned close to Claire’s ear and said, “I think I like your young man.� When she reacted in pure confusion, he held up his hands, smiling. “Not in that way, my dear. He just seems quite trustworthy.�
Claire stretched out against the wall and kissed it. “Glad to see you, too,� she whispered, and pressed her cheek against the smooth surface. It almost felt like it hugged her back. “Dude, it’s a house,� Shane said from behind her. “Hug somebody who cares.�
He touched her face. His fingers traced down her cheek, across her lips, and his eyes—she’d never seen that look in his eyes. In anyone’s, really. “In this whole screwed-up town, you’re the only thing that’s always been right to me,� he whispered. “I love you, Claire.� She saw something that might have been just a flash of panic go across his expression, but then he steadied again. “I can’t believe I’m saying this, but I do. I love you.�
“I love you,� he said, and kissed her so hard he took her breath away. There was more to it than before—more passion, more urgency, more . . . everything. It was as if she were caught in a tide, carried away, and she thought that if she never touched the shore again, it would be good to drown like this, just swim forever in all this richness. Red flag, some part of her screamed, come on, red flag. What are you doing? She wished it would just shut up.
Ugh. It's been a week since I finished this and I STILL am upset by the end, a little...not that I wasn't happy....I was. But, then again, *4.5 Stars*
Ugh. It's been a week since I finished this and I STILL am upset by the end, a little...not that I wasn't happy....I was. But, then again, it also made me upset. But that's not to say it isn't my pregnancy hormones at work. Who knows? I LOVE Lucas-ADORE HIM-so I'll never forget this series.
I might come back and add to this review, but ATM I'm super sucked into the Morganville Vamps, so I'll likely stick closer and truer to those reviews...we'll see!
Hmm. I am NOT pleased. But I thoroughly enjoyed the ride. And I cried. Also, I'm apparently reading too quickly to keep up with reviews. I *4.5 stars*
Hmm. I am NOT pleased. But I thoroughly enjoyed the ride. And I cried. Also, I'm apparently reading too quickly to keep up with reviews. I can't even. UGH.
RTC. Probably. That dumb bitch villain pissed me off good. So I guess that means the author pissed me off? Yeah. That's probably more like it....more
YAY!! I finished anotherrrrr book. October is looking to be a great month!!! I can’t wait to review this one. Lucas is just absolutely adorable and th YAY!! I finished anotherrrrr book. October is looking to be a great month!!! I can’t wait to review this one. Lucas is just absolutely adorable and these books are a great escape from reality. So excited to have found this series! �
There’s nothing better than a book that surprises you� in a good way. My story for this book is a long one, dating years back to when I added pretty m There’s nothing better than a book that surprises you� in a good way. My story for this book is a long one, dating years back to when I added pretty much anything and everything to my ever-growing tbr pile. I was picky back then, too-Don’t be fooled. However, I 徱’t quite know what I loved and how to decipher what made me tick, down to my deepest molecule.
So when I did my most recent delete spree for my tbr pile, this had to go. I mean, it had all the signs of books I try to stay away from: Fugly cover (I know, I know, shut up), hardly any friend’s ratings, no quotes that appealed to me (but I'll change that in my review ;) ), and just nothing to back it up and not enough ratings. But, after reading my beloved Mediator series again, I was in the mood for this book. And guess what?? I immediately added it back onto my tbr and bought it immediately. Best decision I've ever made (well...).
I pulled the Dodge over to the side of the road on Henderson, next to the tennis courts, flipped the hazard lights on, and waited. Alona hadn’t committed suicide, I knew that. The girl had enough arrogance and self-esteem to choke a horse. She had, however, died a violent and unnatural death, which probably meant she was still tied to the exact place of her death.
So, I guess since it's so late, I need to get right to the book, don't I? This story, while not wholly original (what story is these days, really), is done extremely well. That's just my opinion, but I think I read enough books to have a little bit of room to say that. I know what I like, I know what I don't, and I'm actually quite picky. This book, what with all its quirky humor and obvious disregard for what is now a social faux pas for our top reviewers today, stood above all cliches...by making itself into one.
I sighed. “Alona.� “Good luck with class,� she said with faux cheer. “Hope you like musicals. I’ll make sure to tell them Annie is your favorite.� “Wait, just wait a—� Without another word, she slipped through the closed door, humming “Tomorrow� under her breath. Great. Not only do I have an angry spirit guide, but an angry spirit guide with a vindictive streak and an unnatural knowledge of show tunes. Better and better already.
Now let me explain: Alona is your typical stereotypical bitchy cheerleader. So overdone, yeah? Well...that's all in who you ask. Me? I can appreciate a fun, over-the-top, cliched-and even cheesy-book if done correctly. Do you know how many times I desperately wish for more books like this that aren't trashed with horrid grammar, misspelling, and nasty characters you just can't root for? It's just unheard of these days, and I find it so comical that I turned my nose up to this one because, frankly, it was actually quite adorable.
“Good. I’m not goth.� "Your hair is black, you have piercings, you wear black all the time and act all freaky—� "My hair is naturally this color. I have three earrings in one ear, that’s it. This shirt”—I tugged at the fabric across my chest—� is navy blue, and if I act weird all the time, it’s because of ghosts like you.�
And that's the thing-it's all in your personality. For one, Will wasn't even a goth. I mean...perhaps he dresses a little dark, but he's hardly Emo. And his personality, another shocking factor, actually had me swooning from his first POV. He was actually...butterfly inducing from the moment I was in his head. Yikes. Shocked Chelsea. Chelsea is shocked.
"Are you staying � or just passing through?� I asked through gritted teeth. “Why? Does it matter to you?� A thousand smart-ass replies leaped to mind, but she would be expecting that. So, I went for the truth. “Yeah, it does.� Her eyes widened and the faintest hint of pink spread across her face. I grinned. Had I just embarrassed Alona Dare, the Alona Dare?
So back to my original point (man I can get off topic like no-one's business)-typical cheerleader. Judgmental. Rude. On a pedestal...but she was meant to be this way, therefore making her wholly likable (and don't forget what I said: Don't ever judge a book by its cover....)-She had me laughing out loud from chapter one on. Nothing felt overdone, nothing felt cheesy-it was all perfectly balanced and, frankly, had the sweetest message.
But, hey, this obviously wasn't without its flaws or I'd have given five, right? I think a lot of my problem stemmed from how fucking tired I was. Endless tiredness. Endless running. Go Chelsea run Chelsea find Chelsea clean Chelsea-Go go go. So, yeah, putting this down every 10% really pissed me off, if I'm being honest. When you pick up a book fifty times in 100 different moods, it tends to effect a book.
And yes, while not wholly cheesy, it did have its more exaggerated moments-like his therapist-puh-lease. And Joonie-bleh. Also, I guess I wanted a little....more? But, candidly speaking, that's really all that bothered me. *shrugs* I just loved it so much.
“You don’t have to follow her,� I said. “It’s Friday. I know exactly where she’s going after school.� No way would Joonie miss a visit to Lily, not after what she’d told me today. "So are we going, too, or what?� Alona idly flicked a piece of � ghost lint? � off her shorts.
Refreshing, sweet, lots of banter between Will and Alona, and a story that actually fuels itself without reaching, I fell in love within moments. Will was a beautifully tortured boy that I totally didn't expect and Alona had a hidden life that no one could possibly see behind the veneer....just like she wanted. A story constructed of not only laughter and wise-ass remarks, but learning what it means to be a kinder person-even if she isn't with her kind anymore and even if she struggles with it up until the very end (perhaps more...). A book filled with muddled social tiers such as jocks and mean girls and cheating bfs, cliched to the max merely to make us laugh....and it surely succeeded. Whether this book is for you or not, I really don't know. But when life got just a little too tough around here, I turned to what makes me happy, and that's apparently a ghostly significant other, happy to haunt (and annoy) the one they love just because they can (a la Mediator :P).
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****
Well, color me surprised. This book was not at all what I perceived it to be, once again proving that you can't simply judge a book by its [horribly cheesy] cover. Cute, funny, witty, sarcastic, well-written, and not at all what I thought it would be like, I fell in love almost immediately with Alona's snarky attitude and Will's desperation to not see those who haven't went to their final resting place.
I still can't believe I loved this book as much as I did. Even more surprising is that I can't wait to read the second installment. For those of you judging this book by its cover...don't. It's way better than you would ever think-Even with it's stereotypical nature and play on the social tiers of High School (Though, I think this was done on purpose for comical intents and purposes) (which I loved, btw).
But, for those of you who need more convincing.....
“We’re gonna be okay, right?� she asked, her voice muffled against his shirt. Vin cl
**ARC provided in exchange for an honest review**
4.5 Stars
“We’re gonna be okay, right?� she asked, her voice muffled against his shirt. Vin closed his eyes as his hand closed over clasped arms, his head hilting back so that the back of his head rested lightly on the top of hers. And because he cared about her-cared about her so damn much-he did the only thing that he could. He lied. “Yeah. Yeah, we’re gonna be all right.�
Like many of Layne’s novels, Cuff Me took my bad, tired mood and lifted it instantly with one chapter of banter between the Moretti brothers. I always get so excited when I see the opportunity for the New York’s Finest ARCs and blog tours because I have fallen so madly in love with this wacky, flawed, no-nonsense family. This series isn’t without it’s flaws, but it never ceases to put the largest smile on my face despite my dwindling appearance of good moods lately.
Jill Henley was Vincent’s opposite in every way. Jill was chipper, charming, and smiley. Vincent was…none of those things.
I have waited a long time for Vincent’s story, seeing as the plot is one of my favorite types-friends to lovers. When I found out that Vincent was next and that it was going to center around he and his partner’s apparent tension and mutual (although unnoticed) interest. Their banter, loyalty, and obvious affection for one another are an apparent love match in everyone’s eyes but theirs…So what happens when they are both too blind to see it?
The phone would not stop ringing. “What,� he snapped into the phone without glancing at the caller ID. He’d already heard from: His mother (how come you never come to dinner anymore?) His father (did you catch the guy yet?) His grandmother (will you pick me up from my colonoscopy on Tuesday?) Luc (Jill’s not seriously marrying that guy, right?) And Elena (do you want to buy my old smoothie machine? I’m getting an upgrade? No? What if I give it to you? Still no?).
Jill has been courted by another man, ripping Vincent’s heart out just as he realizes he wants to be more than her partner. Jill has everything she could ever want-So why does she feel so…wrong?
“Okay, it’s like this,� Jill said, twisting so she could better face Elena. “When you were little, did you ever make your brothers play wedding with you? You know, make one of them pretend to be the groom?� “Um, of course.� “Luc?� Jill asked curiously. “Obviously. He’s the nicest of the bunch, and the youngest, which made him easiest to coerce.�
With a little (or a lot) of help from the Morettis, they begin to see all that they have missed before. But in true fashion of any romance, their story wouldn’t be complete without a good dose of passion, stubbornness, and misunderstandings.
Ya know, I always adore every single one of Layne’s characters-But Jill, at a certain point, made me want to punch her. I really, really liked her…but there’s a certain point (you’ll know) where I couldn’t believe her actions. And, on the last negative note I really have, I 徱’t quite buy what the other guy was selling. Or rather, what their relationship was, nor how it was handled. I am normally okay with this, buuuut I just couldn’t wrap my head around how easy it was.
“What is it you’d have me do? Hire an opera singer to serenade her? Hold a boombox over my head outside her window? Set up a scavenger hunt that leads to all her favorite kinds of tacos just to show I care?� “Wait. She has multiple favorite kinds of tacos?� Luc asked. “That’s either hot, or weird, I can’t decide.�
But oh my gosh, let me tell you-Luc, Anthony, and Nonna (odd comments and all) once again stole the show. Vincent is great, really, even a favorite! But when they are all together? My heart melts and I become goo in their hilarious Italian hands. When they hang out, I never cease to smile, laugh, and obsess over everything they do and say. And that is why this series is always such a joy to read-I can say it’s the men and their girls-and it is, for the most part-but this family is the essence of everything, and I have to say it’s why I continually come back for more. But that is what Layne does best, right?? Only this time, the series shines when the family is the one bickering.
“The indignity. I can’t even. I’ll take care of this. Straightaway.� Ava handed the orange Jell-O cup to Luc. “Luc, take care of this. Straightaway.� He stared at the cup in his hand before shooting a puzzled look at the women. “And by take care of this, you mean…� “Get her red Jell-O,� Maggie said from the chair in the corner. “Obviously.� Luc glanced at Anthony with a what-the-fuck expression, but Anth held up his hands and shook his head.
Vincent was a wonderful, gruff, and backwards hero, all while being a wonderful partner and a badass cop-but underneath it all, he was as vulnerable as the rest of us, and it broke my heart when we began to see that. I am obsessed with each brother for different reasons and in their own way: Luc being sweet, funny, and always stirring the pot; Anthony for being the oldest, most abrupt, and straightforward brother; and now Vincent, the lonely, gruff, but left-out brother. They all are just so wonderful…I will always have a soft spot for Luc and Anthony, but Vincent definitely gave them a run for their money. I hope everyone takes the chance to enjoy this series as much as I do. :P ...more
So. I've always been a lovey dovey vampire lover as opposed to the GRR, I'M AN EVIL BASTARD kind. But, as it turns out....I fell really hard for this So. I've always been a lovey dovey vampire lover as opposed to the GRR, I'M AN EVIL BASTARD kind. But, as it turns out....I fell really hard for this book. And, instead of sexy bites shared between vampire lovers (or, rather, a human AND vamp), we had the scary as shit psycho vampires. Honestly, I was disappointed at first. I mean, really. Who doesn't like a little neck biting action? WHO I ASK, WHO?! But as the story progressed, it gave me something....a little more.
-and Dad, who was glowering at Shane in the background, was as tall and twice as broad. “Is it him?� Dad asked. “Did he get you into trouble?� “Not me,� Shane said. “I’ve just got that kind of face.�
I won't say it wouldn't be a cool future twist (I'm looking at you, book two *wink*), but, for now, I'm satisfied. Why am I satisfied, you ask? Well, I'll tell you. Instead of sexy neck play between two lovahs, we have a million other things: Mean girls who are actually VERY mean, evil vampires that cause a lot of heroic romantic suspense, not one, but TWO sexy boys, and a cast of four characters that live in a house together, doing everything they can to protect one another. Oh, and there's an EPIC twist somewhere in this story-I like. I approve.
For me to love books that are....well....paranormal, the author better be hella creative. In this case?? She was. And I even thought it was a BIT more addictive than my other vamp series I'm reading...but only by a hair! To me, that's amazing. I LOVE Evernight-I love the atmosphere, the boy, the main girl (most of the time), but sometimes it's a bit lighter and not as intense in the writing area. I love that, but starting this series certainly made my heart pound in ways that are completely out of this world.
This book was creepy as shit, but it doesn't really kick up the scary SCARINESS until book two. Oh yeah, I'm running through these vamp series like candy, so, yeah, I'm extremely behind on reviews FYI. These poor books aren't getting NEAR the reviews they deserve, I realize. But, I digress, my point is this: These books are a lot more adult. They aren't really......mature, per se, but they do border that fine line where you're like, shit, are they really going to burn this guy alive? And are they honestly going to kill off one of my favorite characters brutally? I really can't say....and I kind of dig it.
Now, okay, I wouldn't be me if I didn't defend my darling males. You've got Shane and Michael. Michael is who everyone seems to like. I guess I did, too? But that's only because I let reviews influence me. From the very beginning it's clear that Shane is totally into Claire and he is going to be uber protective of her. I love this. So, in essence, I LOVE Shane. He is nothing but sweet and kind and funny from the very beginning-And when things get serious, so does he. So...what's not to like? I swear, people lol. Who cares!!! But. Anyway. Moving on. Michael is great, too, but....I don't see the large hype for him??? Other than loving him as a main character-I do, too. I guess I'm just still trying to figure that one out. Not trying to dwell on it.
She 徱’t look up. He came a step closer, and his bare feet and sweatpants came into her vision. “Claire. You’ve got to promise me.� “I can’t,� she said. “I’m not some little kid. And I’m not your sister.� He laughed, low in his throat. “Oh, yeah. That, I know. But I don’t want to see you get hurt again.�
OH OH OH!!!! And, okay, I must say-these might be some of my favorite kissing scenes EVER. Or, at least, in a long long time. I just am extremely enamored with how she writes the exchanges-sexy, sweet, swoony, and then there's how she explains the body? I don't know...I just was very attracted to the way she described something as beautifully simple as kissing. It's like authors forget how to, you know?? I have very high hopes for, ahem, future endeavors hehe.
God this review is so weird. I'm sorry guys-I'm sitting at work and going back and forth between work and writing this sad excuse for a review, so that's likely it. I'd rather post something rather than nothing at all so, well....here you go. All I can really say is I adore this series very much and I am EXTREMELY excited to see what's next for my darling Claire and Shane-I love Eve and Michael, too, but babies first!!! I think a lot of people are missing out on this-Yes, it's silly. Yes, they get into some crazy situations....but it never once felt cheesy. So. Um. SCORE. That is all.
****
Shockingly..I ABSOLUTELY LOVED THIS BOOK!! I've been waiting FOREVER to try and I am so glad I waited until my comeback (from being sick) for my month of vampires....Though, these vamps are pretty mean lol And I ADORE Shane. EEPS.
Ahhhhhh this author is killing meeeee!! Why why whyyyyy do these things keep ending this way??? And the dreams...so damn terrifying. Though, I can't h Ahhhhhh this author is killing meeeee!! Why why whyyyyy do these things keep ending this way??? And the dreams...so damn terrifying. Though, I can't help but to love every minute of this mix of dream and reality, never knowing where Isobel is and what she needs to do to save Varen.
And Varen...what a lost, poor, tortured soul-His story is a sad and desperate one. One where no matter how hard Isobel tries, he sinks lower and lower, slipping farther from her grasp. I am so beyond invested in this story that it's sickening.
Consuming my every thought on vacation, including on the beach, I am lost within this story just as Varen and Isobel are. Lord help me. I don't think I can handle this lol.
*WILL BE ADDING QUOTES TO EACH VACATION REVIEW WHEN I CAN, SO EXPECT EDITS*
"You’re the best man I’ve ever met, Patrick Ryan. Thank you for choosing me." “I’ll always choose you.�
Ahhh and here *4.5 stars*
"You’re the best man I’ve ever met, Patrick Ryan. Thank you for choosing me." “I’ll always choose you.�
Ahhh and here I am again, back in one of my most favorite worlds from 2015. I won’t say it wasn’t a shock when I picked this series up, knowing it was cheesy as hell, and immediately fell for not only the forbidden men it touts…but for the wonderful dynamics each and every character share together. Whether they are frenemies (however you spell that lol), lovers, friends, or co-workers, each person fits into the group perfectly. And I guess you can say that this is one of my favorite literary families ever. They are all so utterly loyal, behind all the ribbing, and they would do anything for one another.
"…I’d say the fact he’s already shared a woman with�.well, you, isn’t something he needs to find out about.� “Wow, now wait a sec. What’s wrong with me?� Ten pointed to himself, clearly insulted. “I’m fucking flawless.� I snickered and lifted my hands. “No offense, but I certainly wouldn’t want to stick my dick in anything you’ve already had yours in.� “Amen,� Mason seconded. “Hey.� Ten scowled at us.
Every story I pick up, no matter the content, I know I am going to be swooning after one of my favorite men and their relationship even if I hate the story. And hey!!! I have only hated one book�.some side characters just don’t need to exist-they can literally obliterate even the sweetest of men’s stories. But all that aside, it comes down to one thing: No matter what type of mood I’m in when I pick up these books, I always have the best time reading them and the most abundant warm fuzzies after.
"Tink, you are the most flirt-worthy girl I know,� Pick spoke up, striding over with his arms open. “Here. I’ll hold Skylar while you get yourself something to eat. Then come back and sit by me. I’d be happy to hit on you.�
And here’s the thing: THEY ALL CRY. All of them. I mean�..I can’t…I just�*takes some odd breaths*…WHERE THE FUCK ARE THESE MEN IN MY LIFE??? I’m married you say?? Yeah, well, technicalities. I love my guy, I truly do, but if Mason Lowe or Noel Gamble, Pick, Quinn, hell, even fucking Ten walked into my life�..okay, I won’t finish that horribly presumptuous sentence lest I burst into flames, but you get my point, yes??? These men, they are just something else.
No, we weren’t going to lose Eva tonight. She was going to be okay. The baby was going to be okay. Everyone was going to be okay, except maybe her baby daddy. I kind of hoped he died.
And that’s all there is to it. I come to these books not because they are believable, without cheese, nor are they written in the best way. But the fact of the matter is, when I open a Forbidden Men story, I do, in fact, get a sexy forbidden and tortured man�.and the author actually follows through with it. She doesn’t dick around and find technicalities-she goes balls to the wall and makes her men (almost) every woman’s wet dream (god I’m being disgusting in this review):
-Tortured -Forbidden (duh) -Loyal -Utterly (and most often inexplicably) into the female lead -Passionate about her -Fiercely protective -Willing to sacrifice it all for her
My point? These men are one page away from selling their left nut to be with these women, no matter the cost…and I find it, not-so-inexplicably, addictive as hell.
My lips fluttered with amusement. “You’re never going to get over that nickname, are you? A girl wears Tinker Bell on her shirt one time-" “Embrace it.� He grinned before nuzzling his nose against my temple. “Not everyone can pull off the Tink image.�
I think it goes without saying, or maybe it doesn’t-I don’t know who reads my reviews if you aren’t in my immediate text circle-I have always, always been a sucker for romantic books with peril. And, hey, no matter how brief, how dramatic, how cheesy these perilous scenes are…they tend to pop up in these stories so…yeah�.I love�.because�.boy saves girl. Yeah. I mean, what else do you need (okay, besides poetic, beautiful writing and some actual solidarity that these things could happen in real life-but hey, we don’t want to live in reality-that’s why we read)?? Drama, angst, peril�.no matter how cheesy or forced…they are always around. And, for me, that’s a wonderful combo after a long day at work. And yeah, yeah, it’s all somewhat horrid but…sue me…I need my tortured man fix every now and again (ALWAYS).
His gray eyes glittered silver as he grinned at me. “My lips are sealed. But only because I owe you one.� Then he glanced toward the doorway leading into the hall, which lead to his and Reese’s bedroom. “You think it’s been two minutes yet?� “I think it’s only been thirty seconds, you big horn ball.� Scowling, he shoved his hands into his pockets and grumbled around a moment before muttering, “Well, I can’t wait anymore.� Then he was off, hurrying down the hall in pursuit of his (view spoiler)ڴھԳé. (hide spoiler)]
So, before I go and disappear, let’s talk about the story and why I almost 徱’t read it. For one, and don’t smack me here, I hate pregnancy romances-I have to say I’m not sorry, as well. I want a guy and girl to fall in love and for it to be new and fresh and squeaky clean, not burdened by another man’s discrepancies. That sounds harsh, but it’s one of my book rule no-no’s and it just is what it is. And, you know, I hated Eva in Reese and Mason’s story. She was childish and had no reason to be the way she was (so I thought, and really, she 徱’t, but we had to make her story juicy, now 徱’t we??). All she did was cause my boy Mason problems. So why my sudden change of heart? Well…there are multiple reasons, but two really stick out:
1. I adore this series, and I knew I would smack myself if I 徱’t get more time with these addicting characters 2. Mason. I. Am. Obsessed. With him. He is, without a doubt, my favorite boy (okay ugh and Noel) and when I figured out Eva lived with them in this story�?? I immediately decided to read it because…Mason. Need I say more? MASON.
And I really had heard a ton about this Pick fella who, by the way, really is the f’ing sweetest guy ever, in the generic sense of the word. I mean, he just really does put everyone else ahead of himself and it’s the most selfless thing.
And when he decides he’s guna go for his Tinker Bell??? No one can stop him. He would do anything for her, no matter what it cost him (see above). And even caring for his child-which really isn’t his own-is above caring for himself. And honestly?? He’s hilarious-
A small cry rent the air, and I immediately spun toward the sound. But Pick was already holding up a hand as he cradled Skylar in the other arm. “We’re good,� he called. “Ten just looked at her. That mug’ll make any girl cry.� I arched an eyebrow at Ten. He lifted his hands in surrender. “I 徱’t even touch her.� “I think it was his awful breath,� Pick offered casually.
I don’t know. I just really loved everything about him. But to those who said I’d love Pick more than my men? You were dead wrong. I’m a stubborn little shit, so don’t feel bad. Almost every series I read I have people saying who I’m ‘going to love more� and 99% of the time they are wrong (unless they know me really really well). Exhibit A? This series. Exhibit B? The Calloway Sister series. No one-and I do mean no one-will ever touch my dear Connor and his icy Rose.
"Honestly, though,� I told him, my voice winded. “The wet shirt look is totally working for you. You sure you want this dull, old dry one?� Surprise filled his brown eyes before he gave a slow, hooded smile. Using the shirt we were both holding onto to rein me in closer, he lowered his voice. “Why, Eva Tinker Bell Mercer,� he murmured, his tone a teasing scold. “Are you flirting with me?�
That’s not to say I 徱’t adore him-this book actually is up there with my favorite ones, if not right below, and there was one consolation prize: I had heard Eva is better and that I’d understand her more�.and everyone was right! But even better than that? I adored her.
She skipped up on her tiptoes and slapped a quick kiss to his cheek, right where she’d just patted it. Then she waved goodbye to me. “Toodles, Tinker Bell. Love ya.� I rolled my eyes. “Bye, Sweet Pea. Love you, too.�
Gone was the whiney, whorish (sorry not sorry all those who find that offensive) girl who pushed herself on Mason to prove a point (and yeah, she just ‘wanted to prove a point�, riiiiight..it’s not because Mason is fucking amazing�). She is kind, considerate, willing to do anything to help Mason and Reese (mostly Reese because she loves her so much)
"And then…� She nodded, as if coming to the best part of the story. “While the car’s lying on top of her and the only things poking out are her glittery red Christian Louboutins, I say we steal her shoes and run.� Wow, what was this, the homicidal version of The Wizard of Oz?
and even nudges something along-THAT I WOULD HAVE LIKED TO HAVE SEEEEEEN THANK YOU VERY MUCH, LINDA KAGE GRRR- that made my heart soar. So, to say the mother to be was still a loser party girl would be a lie. And I just really enjoyed seeing the mature woman she grew up to be. Really. I 徱’t even hate the baby stuff-It was actually adorable and endearing and totally fit the embodiment of what makes Eva and Pick…well…Eva and Pick lol.
"Whatever,� I snapped, sending her an incredulous glower. There wasn’t a single wild thing about him. And besides, “He’s way hotter than Mason.� � Reese 徱’t seem to notice the panic on my face; she was too busy choking on her disagreement. “Not even possible. No one-I mean, no one-is hotter than Mason.� I patted her hand sympathetically. “Yeah, just keep telling yourself that, sweetie.�
So, you know, another beautiful, smutty book gone. It makes me sad I only have a couple more left. And to think, who knows how many are even going to be released??? I sure don’t know. But what I do know is, it’s been a long time since I have wanted a book more than my next breath, and that book is Noel’s Brother/Mason’s sister’s story. I. CAN’T. WAIT. UNTIL. [undisclosed date] LATE 2016 (being totally hopeful and pushy with that). I just�.I can’t�.I mean…brain overload. My two FAVORITE men who made me fall for this series are going to be in it NON STOP and the people they love most, besides their women, are going to fall in love. I mean�.COME ON!!!! PERFECTION!!!! ARGHHH!!!!! COME ON COME ON ALREADY! Phew. Now that I got that over with , it’s admission time: While I adored seeing Pick and Eva’s story unfold, and me falling for yet another forbidden man in this series, I fell the hardest for this story when Reese and Mason were a part of it. They just�.have my heart. And they were in it…A LOT.
"Wow.� Pick shook his head, stunned. “You are the complete opposite of your boyfriend, aren’t you?� Reese scowled. “What do you mean?� “At work, that boy avoids women like the plague, never checks them out, and he never shares details about you two…I mean, other than the jelly thing.� Reese gasped, turning a bright tomato red. “I am so going to kill him for that. Now if you two will excuse me, I need to go home and…punish my man, probably with a nice strawberry or grape.� She touched her chin thoughtfully. “Though he does have an affinity for peach jam.�
So�..my fantasies were fulfilled and, frankly, they are the main reason I read this one anyway. I would say I’m a filthy Mason-loving-whore�.but you already knew that. ONTO THE NEXT! �
*Because my laptop is extremely screwy right now at home, I have to pick and choose which books to write reviews about [for the time being]. I loved t *Because my laptop is extremely screwy right now at home, I have to pick and choose which books to write reviews about [for the time being]. I loved this book with all my heart and it was so so so sexy...I really want to come back and add a review for it next week if I have time, and if nothing else I'd like to post some quotes. But, as it is, it's looking like just quotes. This truly saddens me, but I'd rather post something than nothing at all. :( I'll be back :P
After my extreme and totally unexpected disappointment that was The Raven King, this book brought back a smile to my face and made me immensely happy. For that, this book deserves all the stars.
And, ya know, another sexy mother fucker named Jack had my heart beating so fast I thought it was going to implode. :PPP
Thanks, darling Jennifer, for this wonderful Christmas gift �
Chelsea ✨Arielle’s Nebular Ally and Team Acrux�
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