Review of Crushed Sugar by Kimber An

                                       Overview
Be careful what you wish for.

Ophelia’s had a wicked crush on Martin since they were kids, but she was always just his geeky little friend. Then, on the first day of her junior year, he’s suddenly and wildly attracted to her. She can’t imagine what’s changed, but shocking her small school’s social order fills her with vindication for insults suffered.

Ophelia meets Adrian right after and true love extinguishes the wicked crush. In secret, he gives her courage against a specter threat.

Tristan Li is pale and hungry, and draws Martin’s immediate ire. He knows things about Ophelia which she assumes are delusions brought on by an aggravated illness like her own, diabetes. When battle breaks out between his ancient race and new blood, even the courage of her secret love might be crushed.

                         About Crushed Sugar
Ophelia is the geeky girl and less stylish than her twin sister Bianca. She may be pretty  but has been unnoticed  by her biggest crush, Martin, the most popular boy in school. He wants her finally after years of not wanting her. Stranger still is the fact two other new boys show an interest in her. Ophelia feels overwhelmed and she's getting some crazy headaches more and more. On top of all this, the boys are acting weird and birds tend to stare at Ophelia out of the blue. The guys all have different personalities that make it much more interesting romance in the paranormal. The paranormal part being that Martin seems to not be entirely human and wants something with Ophelia. What he wants is something you'll need to judge for yourself. The guys all have their own personalities so your  not sure which to pick.  Making it fun to choose which is best for Ophelia. A sweet romantic paranormal fantasy that is  just, rather sweet.


                   Prequel book to Sugar Rush (Ophelia Dawson Chronicles) by Kimber An


                                              Overall: Amazing read!                                                                 
                            Genre: Romance, Paranormal ,  Young Adult  

                                                 My Star Review
                                                                    Buy Options

  

E-book: 50 pgs.
Recommended Ages: 15 and Up 
Published: March 25th 2011 by Decadent Publishing (first published March 23rd 2011)

                                                 For This Review:*Author Provided Copy For Review*
               
                                                                         About the Author 

Kimber An never had enough books when she was a kid and the ones she didn't turn out the way she wanted. And so she started writing her own. She also loved babies a lot, but didn't know how to talk to boys. Instead she became a nanny and took care of other people's babies. Finally, she moved to Alaska where she met a boy who understood getting whacked on the head with a wadded up piece of paper meant true love. She married him and now she reads books to her own babies, and is is living happily ever after. Visit Kimber's website: www.kimberan.com. Kimer An is published by Decadent Publishing: www.decadentpublishing.com ,one of my favorite,  new publishers on the rise. They have some great book and authors.                         

In My Mailbox (1) & Shelf Candy (1) -July 31

In My Mail­box« is a weekly meme hosted by Kristi – The Story Siren.
In My Mailbox is a weekly meme hosted by Kristi at The Story Siren. In this meme, we share the books we received for review, purchased, got from the library, traded/swapped, etc. Great way to network your blog with other bloggers and readers.  

Shelf Candy is Hosted by Five Alarm Book  Reviews.

The concept is if other bloggers share their favorite covers of the week. Showcasing some of your favorite covers while giving some much deserved recognition to the illustrators, photographers and designers who are responsible, if you can. If not post about your favorite book cover of that week, newly released or, not, talk about what you like on the cover. 
Great way to socialize  with either other bloggers and readers. See new books and blogs as well.

                          In My Mailbox


Giveaway Won:

On goodreads.com-Independence(Hardcover) by John Ferling


The Night Train (Paperback) by Clyde Edgerton off of Metroreader: Reading One Mile A Day


Paradise Rules(Paperback) by Jimmy Gleacher from Books Obsession 


Released by Megan Duncan from the Bittersweet Enchantment 


Dragon's Oath (CD Audiobook) by P.C. & Kristin Cast off of A Cupcake and a Latte


 Review Requests Received :

Confessions of A Corporate Slut (Paperback) by Jacqueline Gum


Crushed: A Witch Game (E-book) Novel by K.C. Blake


Descended by Blood (E-book) by Angeline Kace


Ember by (E-book) Carol Oates


The Pineville Heist (E-book) by Lee Chambers

Verdict :

Reading Descended by Blood by Angeline Kace. As of pg. 17, so far good.

The Pineville Heist by Lee Chambers

                            Shelf Candy Pick -July 31


The Underworld (The Fallen Star, Vol.2) by Jessica Sorensen 

   Jessica Sorensen is a very new self-published author but has already got a great fantasy series novel behind her belt. Her book The Fallen Star has been available for some time now. Couldn't stop reading and read as if I was starving. Completely devoured it. If that doesn't tell you enough then the book's cover art is as aesthetically beautiful as they get. The Underworld is set to be released today- July 31, 2011 as e-book and paperback. The cover art for The Underworld is by Shutterstock. The cover design by Jeanie Malone. Visit Jessica Sorensen's website  


The Fallen Star Review  at Book & Movie Dimension
                                         Buy Options

Review of BFF and the Secret Santa by Amanda Lawrence Auverigne

                                                                                                        



                                         Overview
It’s the last week of classes at university, and Lydia Foster is struggling to find happiness.

She's lost the love of her life, Lucas, who ended their relationship to be with someone else.

Her best friend Amber is having a torrid affair with a professor and Lydia must keep it a secret.

Her final exams are extremely stressful and Lydia is worried about her grades.

On the morning of her last examination, Lydia awakens to discover that her troubles are just beginning.

She receives a gift from a friend that changes her life.




                                                                   About BFF and the Secret Santa
A young college bound woman tries to get over a bad break-up. Lydia can't get past her ex-boyfriend's betrayal. Her struggle is that of a person trying to move on. Lydia isn't all alone she has a quirky friend and a best friend that is aloof but has always been there for her. Lydia is attractive and intelligent and draws the attention of the male population. The decision lies in whether she is ready to move on.  Containing humongous amounts of humor which delivers well in huge parts to ,Karen, Lydia's friend.  As the story progresses Lydia's regular life starts to take a turn into nightmare right into the end. Frightening secrets surface that most readers might not see coming. The things readers might not enjoy is it has a bit of a lot of description that detracts from the story. Does for the most part come out as a captivating read most of the times. The ending is the shining moment.
                                                                    Overall: Good  read
                                                    Genre: Dark fiction 

                                                     My Star Review 
                                                                         

Buy

If you consider purchasing this book, please, buy through the blog's links. Thanks and enjoy.

Available as: E-book, Kindle Edition 

   Ebook:  213pgs.
   Recommended Ages: 17 and Up 

  Published:  December 18th 2010


                                                         For This Review:*Author Provided Copy For Review*

                                                                    About the Author 
Amanda Lawrence Auverigne writes dark fiction. She lives in the United States. She currently resides in an isolated century old mansion. To read more of Amanda's stories, please visit http://auverigne.com.                                              

T.V. Casual Talk: The Nine Lives Of Chloe King T.V. talk "Pilot"

                  Official ABC Family Overview 
In the one-hour scripted drama The Nine Lives of Chloe King, Chloe King is looking forward to celebrating her birthday with her friends and single mother, just like every other year…that is until she starts developing heightened abilities and discovers she's being pursued by a mysterious figure. Chloe soon learns she's part of an ancient race which has been hunted by human assassins for millennia —and that she may be their only hope for ultimate survival. The Nine Lives of Chloe King will be executive produced by Dan Berendsen (Camp Rock 2: The Final Jam, Sabrina the Teenage Witch, Hannah Montana: The Movie) and John Ziffren (Melissa & Joey, Make It or Break It) with Alloy Entertainment's Leslie Morgenstein (Pretty Little Liars, Gossip Girl, The Vampire Diaries) and Gina Girolamo. The drama is based on the book series The Nine Lives of Chloe King by Liz Braswell. The series will star Skyler Samuels (The Gates) as Chloe King; Amy Pietz (The Office, Caroline in the City) as Meredith King; Grey Damon (True Blood, Friday Night Lights) as Brian; newcomer Grace Phipps as Amy; Benjamin Stone (10 Things I Hate About You) as Alek; Alyssa Diaz (Southland) as Jasmine; and Ki Hong Lee (The Secret Life as the American Teenager) as Paul.

                                        About The Nine Lives Of Chloe King "Pilot"
Begins as Chloe our protagonist runs away from an unknown pursuer. Soon climbs a high tower. Background apprehension music making things really fit the mood. Switches to Chloe to an earlier day. How unexpected and a huge relief. Chloe is a regular teen girl living in beautiful San Francisco(good times to Charmed the T.V. show on TNT network , that took place there as the setting as well). Chloe has two friends. Amy the quirky outspoken friend. She brings some attitude to the show. Then, Paul the geeky guy friend who always says the wrong thing albeit in a obviously unknown manner to him. Very amusing. Then Chloe is almost kissed in the episode by Alek. She seems to push away. Not before I burst with giggles. She seemed like she wanted to kiss him. As Chloe talks with her friends we see that there is a sense that things are different with her. She seems to of late as her birthday draws out to demonstrate superhuman endurance and strength along with strange abilities which come with some freaky clawed nails. In all this Chloe meets a cute guy at the clothing store introduced as Brian or Kitty ears by Amy. The episode moves into where the beginning left off. Chloe dies but is miraculously revived. Then two of her classmates are revealed. The Mai! They all live as "supposed" humans but they aren't. They have been hunted for long years.  The reason being they stopped being  humans protectors. After that an organizations called "The Order" began to hunt them down. Jasmine and Alek, the Mai, tell her the situation where she is told she's special to the Mai. She's the Uniter who has nine lives to live, and endure. Oh, and her fall was no accident she was pushed by force by one of the coldest members of The Order. And he's still hunting her down.
-ABC Family T.V. Show at 9pm in the U.S.

                                                                    Final Thoughts
 I thought something is definitely going to happen with Alek and Chloe.
Brian looks cute too. Though I'm rooting for Alek he's just so handsome and hilarious. The hunter is a big threat. Though the show has started it does seem like a good watch. Reminds me of another favorite show The Vampire Diaries with its supernatural elements. Has great science fiction atmosphere. So wouldn't be surprised if it becomes a t.v. watchers favorite supernatural show.

Review of Coffee at Little Angels by Nadine Rose Larter

                 Overview 

Phillip, Sarah, Kaitlyn, Caleb, Maxine, Grant, Melanie and Josh grew up in a small town where they spent their high school years together as an inseparable clique. But high school has ended, and they are all living their own “grown up” lives, each under the impression that their group has basically come to an end. When Phillip dies in a hit and run accident, Kaitlyn summons the others to all come back home, forcing a reunion that no one is particularly interested in partaking in.

Coffee at Little Angels follows how each character deals with the death of a childhood friend while at the same time dealing with their own ignored demons after years of separation. Events unfold as the group tries to rekindle the friendship they once shared to honour the memory of a friend they will never see again.

                                                                          
About Coffee at Little Angels 

Truthful in many ways of how some friendships sadly end as we change and grow-up.  From the beginning it goes in this very real manner of life. Introducing us to how all the friends were in childhood as well as teens.  They all had their styles but as the day ended they were always there for each other. Sadly in years to come, hurtful betrayals will plague them. Hurts and wrongs. Coffee at Little Angels isn't all 'look at the good times back then'. There were some hilarious moments too. We come to see some good-natured flair to the friends. They have to discover sometimes things are not as bad as they seem. Even if, their lives drifted and one of their own came to an early death. A delicate simplicity is well-drilled into this novel.

 Overall: Touching read 

Genre: Realistic fiction

                      

  My Star Review

                                               
  Ebook: 146 pgs
  Recommended Ages: 17 and Up 
  Published: Published May 26th 2011 by Katalina Playroom

                                  For This Review: *Author Provided Copy For Review*



                                        About the Author 
 Nadine Rose Larter is a small town girl currently residing in the city of Port Elizabeth, South Africa. When she is not writing, or writing or thinking about writing she is a mom, a wife, and a very messy housekeeper. Her favourite things include books, blogging, coffee, cupcakes and the occasional brush with sarcasm. Coffee at Little Angels is her first novel. Visit her website for more information about her and her books.                                                                                                                       

Giveaway! R T Kaelin's "Progeny" at Bibliotropic!

This book seems like a unique fantasy book. I was on goodreads and saw it. I really wanted to read. And I have a feeling it's a great read. So I found a blog giveaway. It was so lucky. Like by accident. A chance to win. Now, you can enter too!

     HERE

Summary: (Taken from GoodReads) Nikalys and his sister Kenders grew up living a peaceful life in the quiet farming village of Yellow Mud until the blistering hot day when they go to the nearby lake for a swim. When they reach the lake, they spy an unknown mage conjure a massive water creature hundreds of feet tall. They watch in horror as the water creature plunges toward their home, apparently drowning all in its path, including their parents and older brother, Jak.

As the only survivors, brother and sister strike out on their own, hoping to discover the reason their home and family was destroyed. They must make their way through a countryside where magic is outlawed, punishable by imprisonment or even death while struggling with the revelation that Kenders has magical abilities herself.

Although Kenders can feel and touch the many-colored "strands" of magic she has no idea how to use them until she and Nikalys are attacked by a pack of wolves and Kenders instinctively summons a bolt of lightning, immediately collapsing when the effort drains her of all her energy. From nowhere a giant lynx appears and saves the pair from certain death and then miraculously morphs into his natural self, a seven-foot-tall man. The shape changer’s name is Broedi and when the time is right, he reveals to the siblings that he is one of the original White Lions and he recites to them an ancient prophecy that tells of the coming of a new and even more terrible war than the one centuries ago. The evil Gods of Chaos, Strife, and Sorrow and Pain would combine efforts to unite the orcs, gnolls and razorfiends --- normally sworn enemies. The forces of good would be led by two children of other White Lions; those children are Nikalys and Kenders, the Progeny.

As brother and sister struggle with the revelation that the only parents they could remember were not their birth parents, some of the Gods and Goddesses were busy setting other events in motion. Other people -- strangers at first -- would gather and become allies of the Progeny. Together, they were about to be caught up in the greatest conflict the world had ever seen.

Ancient, powerful forces still seek the Progeny on their travels, some intent to eliminate the threat they pose, some hoping to help them fulfill a destiny of which they are unaware. Myths and legends come to life, whisking the pair along a journey they never could have imagined possible.

Tagged: Blog Award Winners

                These awards are for you, you are amazing!


Thanks a lot to kimyunalesca for choosing me to pass these awards too.


Kelsey at- The Book Scout

Ashley at- Books Obsession


Theresa at- Just Nook It


Haley at- Ya-Holic


Tiger at- All-Consuming Books

Memrie at- darkangel88


Aik & Koey at- The Bookaholics


Kathy at- I Am A Reader, Not A Writer

Greta is Erikasbuddy & Darkfallen at-  Paranormal Wastelands


Kati at- Jagged Edge Reviews


Angela at- Dark Faerie Tales

All the passionate readers/writers at-  Five Alarm Reviews

Rachel at - Parajunkee's View

Alexia at- Alexia's Books and Such...

The Book Muncher at- The Book Muncher


Rules for these awards:

1) Link back and thank the person who tagged you.

2) Post seven things about yourself and answer the list of favorite questions.

3) Pass these awards to 15 bloggers.

4) Notify the lucky bloggers who got these awards.

If you feel you don't want to follow the rules it's ok, but note you aren't truly entitled for the awards.

7 Facts about me:

1) I love anything Japanese! Such a beautiful culture in my opinion.

2) Love music

3) Secretly want to be an artist. Don't know if I got it so I'll let you know.

4) I'm currently exploring reading all sorts of genres when it comes to books. I dream of reading all the books in the world knowing it's impossible.

5) Suck at making jokes but when I'm not trying to be funny. I come out being funny. Who'd a guessed, huh?

6) Don't know how to cook but don't want to. I think I can survive with fast food and easy to prepare dishes.

7) Will be delighted if I discovered magic was real. Ah, what a dream.

The Favorite Questions:

Name your favorite colors:

Green, Blue

Name your favorite song:
Ride on A Shooting Star by The Pillows

Name your favorite dessert:
Chocolate brownies. Mmmm....

What pisses you off:
Long waiting times, No food, Liars, Pretentious bitches, Nosy people

When you are upset you:
Sleep, watch TV

Favorite pet:
None

Black or White:
White

Your biggest fear:
Dying. The Unknown.

Best feature:
My eyes and hair.

Everyday Attitude:
Keep going in life, you know. No turning back!

What is perfection:
Being Human

Guilty pleasures:
Books, Food, Diet Dr. Pepper Cherry Vanilla, The Vampire Diaries, Nine Lives of Chloe King, Nikita, and True Blood.

P.S.- You've been tagged.

Review of The Tree Shepherd's Daughter by Gillian Summers

                                                                                 Overview 

When her mother dies, fifteen-year-old Keelie Heartwood is forced to leave her beloved California to live with her nomadic father at a renaissance festival in Colorado. After arriving, Keelie finds men in tights and women in trailer trash-tight bodices roaming half-drunk, calling each other lady and lord even after closing time! Playacting the Dark Ages is an L.A. girl’s worst nightmare.

Keelie has a plan to ditch this medieval geekland ASAP, but while she plots, strange things start happening—eerie, yet familiar. When Keelie starts seeing fairies and communicating with trees, she uncovers a secret that links her to a community of elves. As Keelie tries to come to grips with her elfin roots, disaster strikes, and Keelie’s identity isn’t the only thing that’s threatened.

One part human determination and one part elfin magic, Keelie Heartwood is a witty new heroine in a world where fantasy and reality mix with extraordinary results.

                    
                                                About The Tree Shepherd's Daughter 
Elves and redcaps abound in this fun fantasy read. Keelie Heartwood has had allergies to plants but soon finds that isn't all she has. The package comes with earth powers in being a Tree Shepherdess. Keelie is a very funny and care-free girl. Readers can find her ordinary outing interesting as they soon turn magical.  Has more of a earth-friendly feel in keeling with its paranormal element which are elves. Characters are well-written and an all around friendly read.  Felt myself become addicted to The Tree Shepherd's Daughter, Book 1, in the  series.


                                                 Overall: Amazing read!
                                               Genre: Young Adult, Fantasy 


                                                             My Star Review 
                                                              

Buy

If you decide to purchase this book be sure you do it through this blog. Every little purchase is well regarded. Thanks.

  Paperback: 331 pgs.
  Recommended Ages: 14 and Up 
  Published: Published September 1st 2007 by Flux                    
        
                                                          For This Review:  *Self-Provided Copy*


                                                 About the Author 
A forest dweller, Gillian was raised by gypsies at a Renaissance Faire. She likes knitting, hot soup, costumes and adores oatmeal, especially in the form of cookies. She loathes concrete, but tolerates it if it means attending a science fiction convention.She can be found at her north Georgia cabin, where she lives with her large, friendly dogs, obnoxious cats, and an occasional fairy.

(Gillian Summers (Georgia) is the pseudonym for co-authors Berta Platas and Michelle Roper. Both are ardent renaissance faire groupies.) Visit, Gillian Summers at http://magicalforest.wordpress.com/ .                                                          

Monday Teaser of 'The Underworld' by Jessica Sorensen

“Just one second before we take off” Alex said to Nicholas. Then he turned to me, giving me this strangest look ever.
“What?” I asked, confused.
Still looking at me weirdly, he leaned in toward me.
I wasn’t sure what he was going to do at first—kiss me. Yeah, that thought flashed through my head until I realized that he was heading for my ear not my lips.
“Make sure and be careful around Nicholas.” His breath was electric against my ear, and I had to try very hard not to gasp. “Faeries are tricky. He’ll twist things around and try to confuse you if you’re not careful.”
So you’re a Faerie, too, I thought, but out loud I nodded. “Okay, I will.”


Just love teasers!


               Buy options

Visit Jessica Sorensen's website

"Book News" The Cover of The Underworld (The Fallen Star Book 2)

Oh it's so pretty! I'm so reading it. Jessica Sorensen released it on her blog today.
The Underworld (The Fallen Star Book 2) is set to release July 31, 2011.


Buy Options


Visit Jessica Sorensen's website  

Review of Saving Lady Ilsa by Crystal Kauffman

                         Overview 

Bradford Stratton needs a wife. It isn’t a tragic problem until one considers his disposition. He’d rather spend his days, and nights, with his young lover Frederick. But his father’s gently put request that he marry is nothing short of an order, and Bradford won’t settle for a silly bit of fluff. When he sees the beautiful Norwegian seamstress, he makes his decision on the spot. He has to have her, even as he knows claiming her could destroy his relationship with Frederick.

Ilsa Bergstrom has endured all the abuse she can take from her late sister’s cruel husband. But a thirty-year-old childless woman in London’s rough Whitechapel has few options for surviving on her own, and after a horrific night of abuse at the hands of three men, she’ll never choose whoring as one of them. Yet when handsome nobleman Bradford Stratton makes a scandalous proposition, she accepts without hesitation. Bradford proves to be a gentle and generous lover. But Ilsa knows when something seems too good to be true, it usually is.


            About Saving Lady Ilsa 

Ilsa is a seamstress that is abused by a her her sister's late husband. Her life revolves around having to please his every demand, which is horrific. I felt for Ilsa. Poor Ilsa has to believe the worst in men after  they take all savagely.  Ilsa is an attractive woman but no longer a young girl. With few prospects here and there she has to make do. Things are not so bad. Luck seems to shine on her. While Ilsa feels damaged and isn't too certain of herself. Not knowing what she must do to survive. One particular available nobleman is happy to welcome her. He needs someone like her. Ilsa is wary until things get hot and lusty.

Moments where the players act every bit hilarious and joke give it more fun to the story. The story takes place in Whitechapel London, 1859. There is drama as well. Something nobody sees coming. Less romantic but more hot and heavy defines Saving Lady Ilsa. As for the character's complexity, its rather mild. A sort of in-between. If you're looking for personality this isn't too much for you. It's more about the action, not just between the characters, but the plot in general. The plot itself is well spread out.

It has a pretty good ending and starts out from the beginning well paced. Never drags out or feels too boring. Found I couldn't keep myself off the sexy scenes on the pages. This is one of those books not to be taken too serious. More of a teaser. The sex scenes are really precious. Ocassionally you will be happy to know the characters aren't just about the sex  but do care for each other. Since the characters have had their shared sorrows. The conclusion will leave you out there thinking. You will just have a blast reading it along with the beautiful cover of the book you can't go wrong.

                              Overall: Amazing read!

                              Genre: Erotic Romance

                  My Star Review 

                     Buy at Amazon.com $3.99
 
 Available at: Ellora's Cave, Amazon.com, and Barnes and Noble 
 Recommended Ages: 17 and Up  
  Published: October 8th 2010 by Ellora's Cave (first published October 2010)

     
         For This Review:*Self-provided Copy*