(Review) Any Duchess Will Do by Tessa Dare

Title: Any Duchess Will Do
Author: Tessa Dare
Series: Spindle Cove, #4
Publish Date: May 28, 2013 (Avon)
Rating: Staying in Tonight
Format: Digital ARC provided by publisher via Edelweiss

Summary: Griffin York, the Duke of Halford, has no desire to wed this season—or any season—but his diabolical mother abducts him to “Spinster Cove” and insists he select a bride from the ladies in residence. Griff decides to teach her a lesson that will end the marriage debate forever. He chooses the serving girl.

Overworked and struggling, Pauline Simms doesn’t dream about dukes. All she wants is to hang up her barmaid apron and open a bookshop. That dream becomes a possibility when an arrogant, sinfully attractive duke offers her a small fortune for a week’s employment. Her duties are simple: submit to his mother’s “duchess training”… and fail miserably.

But in London, Pauline isn’t a miserable failure. She’s a brave, quick-witted, beguiling failure—a woman who ignites Griff’s desire and soothes the darkness in his soul. Keeping Pauline by his side won’t be easy. Even if Society could accept a serving girl duchess—can a roguish duke convince a serving girl to trust him with her heart?

When I first laid eyes on Any Duchess Will Do, I was immediately struck with a bad case of Instalove. Hearts began popping up around my head, and "This Magic Moment" started playing in the background. Such an interesting premise! The duke and the serving girl? Duchess lessons a la The Princess Diaries, albeit with an older, more rakish Michael for me to swoon over? WANT. While the actual story did not exactly wind up aligning with that particular idea I had in my head, I was immensely pleased with it nonetheless.

Pauline was an interesting character. She was a serving girl in Spindle Cove. She was practical, rational, and direct, but she also had dreams. She was loyal and supportive of her sister Daniela, who had a developmental delay of some sort, and their relationship was very touching. She was hilariously unqualified to be a duchess and had an unfortunate habit of cursing and...well, basically, lots of things a duchess shouldn't do.

Griff was staunchly against the idea of getting married, but he did not want to tell his mother the true reason. While this is made clear early on, the reader is given no clues as to why. So you're simply left wondering until the answer comes flying out to you over in left field and hits you right in the gut. His anti-marriage feelings aside, though, I liked reading about Griff from the beginning. He was just so utterly ducal. In a good way.

I also had a real soft spot for Griff's mother. She was quite amusing, and I wound up caring about and enjoying scenes with her more than I would have anticipated. I also loved seeing the little cameos with some of the old Spindle Cove characters! That made me smile a lot. In fact, Griff himself had made an appearance in one of the preceding books, which I had completely forgotten about until it was mentioned.

Of course, some of the elements of the story were predictable. It was, after all, "the practical girl's fairy tale." But the majority of it was not what one would expect. And all of it, predictable or not, was thoroughly enjoyable. There was a scene with a goose that had me giggling uncontrollably. Dare amped up the hotness factor, and there may have been a scene or two that left me fanning myself and reaching for a cool glass of water. Whatever the scene, I loved reading about Griff and Pauline and how they dealt with their accidental, inconvenient feelings.

I usually associate Tessa Dare with humor. I tend go to into her books expecting a fabulous romance and a lot of laughs. And I got them. But with this book, I got quite a few tears, as well. Some were good, and some were bad. I was not anticipating such an emotional read! While it is by no means the next Steel Magnolias, I would keep a tissue or two handy while reading.

Basically, I guess the moral of my story is this: When it comes to Any Duchess Will Do, expect the unexpected. It will surprise you. It will make you cry. It will make you fall in love. So let it. Experience it. Enjoy it. Love it. Spindle Cove is one of my favorite historical series, and Any Duchess Will Do was a wonderful installment. I am already eagerly awaiting the next one!

EDIT: I have just been informed that this is, in fact, the last Spindle Cove book. Pardon me while I go weep in a corner. I do look forward to seeing what Tessa Dare has in the works for us in the future, though!

Pauline looked to the window, expecting a pig to fly through it. A pig strumming a lyre and speaking Welsh, perhaps.

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I was hoping to hear something like, ‘I have a creeping skin disease.’ Or, ‘I hoot like a barn owl when I reach orgasm.’ Those would be deterrents. I’m not sure the second is strong enough, actually. Curiosity might win out over trepidation.

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I know how mirrors work. They’re all in league with the cosmetics trade. They tell a woman lies. Drawing her gaze from one imagined flaw to another, until all she sees is a constellation of imperfections. If you could get outside yourself, borrow my eyes for just an instant... There’s only beauty.

---

If there was anything better than the smell of books, it was the smell of books mingled with the scents of strong tea and spice biscuits – and all of it on a rainy afternoon.
*All quotes from ARC or galley, so final copy may differ.

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(Review) Close Enough to Touch by Victoria Dahl

Title: Close Enough to Touch
Author: Victoria Dahl
Series: Jackson, #1
Published: August 28, 2012 (HQN Books)
Rating: Staying in Tonight
Format: Digital galley provided by publisher via NetGalley

Summary: For makeup artist Grace Barrett, Hollywood isn't the land of golden opportunity. It's the land of difficult divas, cheating boyfriends and unemployment. So when her great-aunt offers her a free place to stay in Jackson Hole, Grace thinks she'll spend a little time in the sticks to figure out her life, and then move somewhere exciting to live out her dreams. But it turns out that there are a few more thrills in this small town than Grace was expecting…. Cole Rawlins is a rugged Wyoming cowboy born and bred. Yet he can't help but be drawn to the fascinating big-city girl who moves in across from him. He wants to get close enough to Grace to see past her tough facade, but if he does, she might see the real Cole. The one with a Hollywood history gone bad. As they discover a sizzling attraction, it becomes harder for him to keep his demons at bay—and those fires from long ago may burn them both.

They'll need more than scorching-hot passion to make this opposites-attract affair work. But if they can learn to trust one another enough to reveal their secrets, they just might have a chance at forever.

Victoria Dahl is one of those authors whom I always enjoy but never remember to list or look up when I'm at the library or in the bookstore. But she just writes such fun, sexy stories with her own flair. They're really good, and Close Enough to Touch was no exception! I'm also totally in love with the cover. The purple, the negative space, the plays with fonts.

One of my favorite things about Close Enough to Touch was the originality of the heroine, Grace. Far from the visual her name might inspire, Grace was a touch girl with purple hair, black boots, and a few things in her past that might cause sideways glances. Being a city girl, Grace wasn't sure what to make about a lot of the aspects of small town life. It was amusing to watch her adjust to the difference. She also had secrets she had to deal with.

Cole was a super sexy cowboy who also happened to be incredibly frustrated, due to the fact that he was injured. And as such, he could not work. He had bunches of down time, interspersed with brutal but helpful physical therapy appointments. Then Grace moved into the room next to his. It was dislike at first site, but of course, it didn't last. Soon enough, Grace and Cole were discovering more and more they had in common, despite their apparent differences.

I liked all the touches Dahl included. The small-town bar was great. Grace's eccentric aunt who only rented to men (Grace being the sole exception). How Grace got to experience real friendship outside of her only long-time best friend. The side romance that was incredibly cute.

Close Enough to Touch was definitely an enjoyable read. I'm also super excited for Too Hot to Handle, the next book in the series. Merry absolutely cracked me up, and I can't wait to read more about her. But back to Close Enough to Touch: If you love watching the sparks fly as dislike turns to something else a lot more fun and a lot more romantic, this one is for you!

This made it official: Grace Barrett’s life was over. Or, at the very least, it was so irrevocably screwed up that a quick death would be a blessing at this point.

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Even cowboys can take a hint when you’re bashing them over the head with it.

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She’d started the day off in her underwear in a hallway. That seemed like the kind of day that should end with a beer.

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Once a guy ruffles your hair, your vagina has ceased to exist for him.

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(Review) Of Poseidon by Anna Banks

Title: Of Poseidon
Author: Anna Banks
Series: Of Poseidon, #1
Published: May 22, 2012 (Feiwel & Friends)
Rating: Staying in Tonight
Format: Hardcover, borrowed from library

Summary: Galen is strong, protective and gorgeous, with striking violet eyes and a body to make you shiver - and that's just when he's in human form. He's from the House of Triton, god of the sea, and he's searching for a girl with the gift of Poseidon to save his brother from marrying a fraud. Emma is a human. Or so she thinks. When Emma meets Galen on the beach, they both sense a sizzling chemistry. But can Galen convince her that she holds the key to his kingdom - without letting on that he's falling for her?

When I started Of Poseidon, I completely expected something super serious with lots of watery brooding. I guess it was the cover, combined with the fact that it was a paranormal. But whatever the reason, my expectations were along certain lines that the book did not end up following. But in this case, I am so glad! It absolutely skyrocketed past my expectations! The book was serious, hilarious, romantic, and captivating, all at once.

I really liked Galen's name, as well as his personality. He was totally cute and awkward. And when he had his paranormal-boy moments of obsessive behavior? Yeah, Emma actually CALLED him on it. WHAT. That's right. You go, Emma! I love that she actually felt comfortable enough with him to do that. And I love that he respected her enough to listen. While they both definitely had their faults, I liked them overall.

Galen's friends and family (who were all basically one unit; even the non-related ones were like family) were such great characters! The interactions between Galen's best friend and his sister were absolutely hilarious, and I loved trying to figure them out.

Banks did some great world-building with the whole story of the Syrena, how being a mermaid works, and all the incredible details. I also liked that the book was told from both Galen and Emma's points of view. However, it was also odd, because Emma narrated in first person while Galen's sections were told in third. I didn't like that at all; it was jarring.

And then we have The Ending. I was pacing back and forth on the sidewalk in front of my house while I read it, and when I reached the end, I slammed to a halt and literally shouted, "WHAT?!" Because it was the end. I had thought it was a standalone. But it was all over. Finished. And I was left dangling off a cliff of epic proportions, and when I raced inside to Goodreads, I discovered how long it was going to be until the next one. May 28th? YEAH, MAY AS WELL BE NEXT CENTURY. (I'm nothing if not invested in my books.)

But massive cliffhanger nonwithstanding, I loved Of Poseidon! This was my first mermaid book, and I could not have imagined a better introduction into the subgenre. There was a little bit too much cheese at times, but not overwhelming amounts. While Of Poseidon definitely had its serious moments, it did a tremendous job of showing that paranormal books don't have to be angst-ridden to be great.

I’m betting Cinderella didn’t feel this foolish, but then again, Cinderella wasn’t as clumsy as an intoxicated walrus.

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I’m betting Cinderella didn’t feel this foolish, but then again, Cinderella wasn’t as clumsy as an intoxicated walrus.

---

I mean, life-changing decisions take time to make. Time and meditation. And physical space between my lips and his.

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Second Chance Saturday (02): Wicked Becomes You by Meredith Duran

The goal of this feature is to give a second chance to a book/author/series I have written off for some reason.

This Month's Featured Book: Wicked Becomes You by Meredith Duran
This Book Was a Second Chance Because... I read one of Meredith Duran's first books back in 2009, but I wasn't a fan. Since then, I've avoided her books. After seeing several interesting looking ones, I finally convinced myself to pick up this one.
Verdict: Worth it! A great story with dynamic characters, an intriguing plot that didn't overshadow the romance, occasional wry humor, and great relationship development.
Other Books Mentioned: Written on Your Skin by Meredith Duran
Purchase: Amazon || Barnes & Noble

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(Review) Shut Out by Kody Keplinger

Title: Shut Out
Author: Kody Keplinger
Published: September 5, 2011 (Poppy)
Rating: Stay Up 'til 2 AM
Format: Hardcover borrowed from the library

Summary: Most high school sports teams have rivalries with other schools. At Hamilton High, it's a civil war: the football team versus the soccer team. And for her part,Lissa is sick of it. Her quarterback boyfriend, Randy, is always ditching her to go pick a fight with the soccer team or to prank their locker room. And on three separate occasions Randy's car has been egged while he and Lissa were inside, making out. She is done competing with a bunch of sweaty boys for her own boyfriend's attention

Then Lissa decides to end the rivalry once and for all: She and the other players' girlfriends go on a hookup strike. The boys won't get any action from them until the football and soccer teams make peace. What they don't count on is a new sort of rivalry: an impossible girls-against-boys showdown that hinges on who will cave to their libidos first. But what Lissa never sees coming is her own sexual tension with the leader of the boys, Cash Sterling...

I had so much fun reading this book! Shut Out was like book crack for me. I picked it up, and then it was just like someone had glued it to my hands to the front and back covers because I COULD NOT put it down. I didn't want to! In fact, when I looked up at the clock after finishing it, I was shocked to discover I read it at nearly twice my "average" reading speed. It just went by so quickly! I was totally immersed in the story.

Basically, I picked it up because I had read The DUFF a few weeks earlier and enjoyed it, so I looked up Kody Keplinger. And I saw the premise for this book, went YES, PLEASE, and promptly requested it from the library. I was not disappointed! In fact, I wound up liking it quite a bit more than The DUFF.

The entire idea behind this book was vaguely based on Lysistrata, a Greek play by Aristophanes (which I actually knew, because my school did a production of it last year). Basically, it equates to: take sex away from guys, and they'll do whatever you want to get it back. Of course, that's only the founding idea, and it never quite works out like the girls expect. It's a battle of wills between the girls and the guys, and it can be a basis for a lot of fun. It can also get out of hand, which it did in Shut Out. However, I enjoyed the way the story was handled. I also really liked a lot of the message behind the things the girls - and guys - involved learned. I also love that the book was self-aware and referenced Lysistrata more than once.

One of my favorite thing about the book was how the situation strengthened the friendships of some of the girls and brought others together who would never have been interacting otherwise. I think it was believable in that both negative and positive things came about from the situation. There were also really interesting minor subplots happening with some of the girls and their boyfriends.

As for the main characters, I really liked them! Lissa was great. I love that she edited her books while reading them. I habitually do that mentally, and there are occasional books that are so bad I feel like I need a red pen with me while I read so I can send it back to the copy editor when I'm finished. I also really love that Lissa loved Atonement. It made me want to go back and read and/or watch it, which I haven't done for years.

Aaand then there's Cash. Okay, so, full disclosure? Cash was SCARILY like this guy I had a gargantuan crush on for basically the entirety of high school. The full name was very similar, the appearance as described was basically identical, and a lot of Cash's behavior reminded me of the way this guy acted. So yeah. There was that element that is totally personal and subjective, and it probably added to my enjoyment of the Cash part of the storyline and made me love him more than I already would have. But really, if she would have slapped auburn hair and a different name on him? I honestly would have still loved him as a character and wanted him with Lissa, because their chemistry was fabulous.

Basically, Shut Out was just great all-around. It was thoroughly addicting, and I enjoyed the ridiculously short amount of time it took me to get through it.

Great. He was a hottie, a good kisser, and a literature buff. God really must have a sense of humor...

---

It struck me how inappropriate it was to have this conversation in front of so many Bibles.

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(Review) Flowers from the Storm by Laura Kinsale

Title: Flowers from the Storm
Author: Laura Kinsale
Published: October 1, 1992 (Avon)
Rating: Staying in Tonight
Format: eBook, purchased

Summary: The Duke of Jervaulx was brilliant - and dangerous. Considered dissolute, reckless, and extravagant, he was transparently referred to as the "D of J" in scandal sheets. But sometimes the most womanizing rakehell can be irresistible, and even his most causal attentions fascinated the sheltered Maddy Timms.

Then one fateful day she receives the shocking news - the duke is lost to the world. And Maddy knows it is her destiny to help him and her only chance to find the true man behind the wicked facade.

But she never dreamed her gentle, healing touch would alter his life and her own so completely - and bind them together in need, desire...and love.

Oh my goodness, you guys. This book was like nothing I had ever read before! Seriously. I read this one because I have been trying to explore some of the older romance novels to understand the romance genre more fully, reading some of the romance "classics" that are heralded on various Best Of Romance lists. First thing you need to know: That blurb up there? Disregard it. It's lame. The important thing? This book is a romance between Christian, Duke of Jervaulx, a brilliant mathematician who is unable to speak due to a stroke, and Maddy, a British Quaker. Intrigued now? I was, too.

The best thing about this book, hands down, is the originality of the plot. But a very close second is the writing style. See, the easy way out of this story would just to have the entire thing be told from Maddy's point of view. Nothing wrong with that, and it would have been a good story. But it would not have been nearly as complex. It would not have been great. And great it was. Christian's POV was absolutely fascinating. Because the stroke had impacted the language part of his brain, he had difficulty processing what was said around him (as well as reading, writing, and speaking). And you got to see that! Using a method very Stream of Consciousness-esque, Kinsale portrayed Christian's thoughts and understanding of the world around him. And you had to sort through the language to figure it out, as well. It made for more difficult reading at times, but ultimately was completely and totally worth it. It made me appreciate Christian's struggle so much more.

As for Maddy (short for Archimedia. Can you say OUCH?), she was a very interesting character as well. As a member of the Society of Friends, she had grown up in a completely separate world from the duke. The only reason they were even connected in the beginning is because her father - also a mathematician, but blind - and Jervaulx were collaborating on a mathematical project, and she was, essentially, the messenger. She was very devoted to her beliefs and her principles, and I liked that about her. However, Maddy had to grow and come to some realizations about herself and the world throughout the book, and it was interesting to watch how this progressed.

Obviously, this book contained a lot of things about which I know almost nothing. I know the basics of how a stroke can impact your brain, and I basically only know stereotypical things about Quakers. Therefore, I cannot vouch for the authenticity, but I can tell you that it felt authentic to me. It broke my heart to see how little the doctors understood mental illnesses and conditions back in that time period, and therefore how they treated the patients. But it was very realistic; they simply didn't know better.

The book was a little difficult to follow in the beginning because Maddie and her father spoke in Plain Speech, using "thee" and "thou" and such. But I grew accustomed to it quickly and hardly noticed it as the book went on. One thing I liked in this book was the various relationships and how they were all different and complex, from family to friends to the romance. Oh, the romance. The love story between these two was simply splendid. They also had one of the most beautifully written and emotionally impacting love scenes I've ever read. Really, I just loved this book in general. Another thing I appreciated about it was that while the story was complex, it was without Huge Drama stemming from the Uber Evil Super Villain of all Villainy, which is usually totally unnecessary. I kept waiting for it to pop up, and it didn't, which made me happy.

I can see why Flowers from the Storm is one of the most beloved romance novels of all time. It is a truly beautiful and utterly unique story. I recommend it to anyone who enjoys historical romance and/or original love stories.

[Unfortunately, my favorite quote from this book is fairly spoilery and way more powerful within the context of the book. But I like this line, too, which is the opening.]

He liked radical politics and had a fondness for chocolate.

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(Review) The Best Man by Kristan Higgins

Title: The Best Man
Author: Kristan Higgins
Series: Blue Heron, #1
Published: February 26, 2013 (HQN)
Rating: Staying in Tonight
Format: Digital ARC from publisher via Edelweiss

Summary: Faith Holland left her hometown after being jilted at the altar. Now a little older and wiser, she's ready to return to the Blue Heron Winery, her family's vineyard, to confront the ghosts of her past, and maybe enjoy a glass of red. After all, there's some great scenery there....

Like Levi Cooper, the local police chief-and best friend of her former fiancé. The only catch is she's having a hard time forgetting that he helped ruin her wedding all those years ago. If she can find a minute amidst all her family drama to stop and smell the rosé, she just might find a reason to stay at Blue Heron, and finish that walk...

There's a reason why Kristan Higgins is one of my favorite contemporary romance authors, folks. I loved The Best Man! We first meet Faith as she is sitting in a car and chugging Red Bull...while she uses binoculars to spy on a guy she is dating. But in her defense, she has probably the worst dating record in history, starting with the wedding we learn about in the prologue...which concludes with the groom announcing he is gay.

This book takes place mostly in the present day, but there are also a lot of flashbacks, which I enjoyed a lot. I really liked seeing the development of both the characters and the relationships. As the book goes along, we learn more about Faith and her history with Jeremy (the gay almost-husband) and his best friend Levi. Honestly, the friendship between Jeremy and Levi was one of the best things about this book. It was so refreshing! I absolutely love reading about close male friendships, especially when done well. Jeremy and Levi were an unlikely pair, but their friendship rang true.

And as long as we're on the subject: Levi. Oh, Levi. I have officially found a new book boyfriend. A man of few words, Levi was an Army veteran, police chief, great friend, and big brother doing his best to help his little sister through her first year of college. Be still, my heart.

I also liked Faith. I was a little worried I wouldn't in the beginning, but I really should not have bothered. She was fun and kind-hearted and snarky when necessary. She also had epilepsy, which I thought was interesting. It was definitely a unique aspect of the story. I adored the interactions between Faith and Levi. Their scenes together ranged from so-hilarious-my-roommate-was-giving-me-strange-looks to heartwrenching to sweet to sudden hotflash-inducing.

In typical Higgins fashion, there was a pretty large cast of characters, and Faith had a big, crazy family. Her relationship with them was complicated, partially due to circumstances surrounding her mother's death when she was a child. I liked her family, though. There were some good scenes with them. I was also really intrigued by the possibility of romance between some of the side characters. I'm not discussing who, but I will keep my eye on her future releases for them!

All-in-all, The Best Man was a good one! I enjoyed the characters, the friendships, and the romance. The New England town with a background of winery vines and grapes was a thoroughly charming setting, and I am very happy to see that this is the first in a series to take place in Blue Heron. Maybe I can move there after a few years in Lucky Harbor...?

That’s how it went, right? Love came when you weren’t looking except in the case of the millions who’d found mates on Match.com, but, hey. It sounded good.

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One does not meet one’s gay ex-fiancé without looking fantastic.

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Yes, Levi Cooper was a sparkly unicorn of wonder.

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(Review) The Other Side of Us by Sarah Mayberry

Title: The Other Side of Us
Author: Sarah Mayberry
Published: January 2, 2013 (Harlequin)
Rating: Lunch Break Read
Format: Digital copy from publisher via NetGalley

Summary: The best thing between Oliver Barrett and Mackenzie Williams is a fence. Ever since Oliver's new-neighbor gestures were met with unfriendly responses, he's decided to keep his distance. After all, he's in this seaside town to get his life on track again. That doesn't include working hard to get on Mackenzie's good side—no matter how intriguing she may be. His intentions are put to the test, however, when his dog becomes infatuated with hers. The two crafty canines do their best to break down the barriers between the properties. And where the dogs go…, well, the humans must follow! It doesn't take long for a powerful attraction to build between Oliver and Mackenzie. They soon discover that the worst of first impressions can lead to the best possible outcomes….

The Other Side of Us by Sarah Mayberry is a beautiful romance between two people who should by all accounts have broken due to different circumstances. But they weren't. That was one of the things that made this story so enjoyable. I loved Mackenzie and her tenacity, and I loved Oliver and his brilliant sense of humor. I didn't even mind the dogs too much; Strudel might be the cutest name for a dog ever.

Another aspect of this book that was nice was that both Mackenzie and Oliver were 39 when the story started, which is older than the norm in contemporary romance. It is by no means ancient or anything, obviously, but it made for a nice change of pace from the late-twenties-early-thirties heroes and heroines in stories I tend to read.

I liked the relationship between Mackenzie and Oliver; it developed quickly from the initial dislike, and sweetness and sexiness abounded in equal measure. It was almost simplistic in a way, but it just worked with them.

(Minor spoilers in this paragraph.) Pretty much my only real problem with this book was that Oliver was in the middle of a divorce when they met. Divorce is a sticky issue for me, because I feel like the divorce needs to be finalized before I can support any romantic shenanigans that may happen the story. Unfortunately, this was obviously not the case in this book, so I just tried not to think about it. I know it's a picky thing, but it still bothered me.

Besides the aforementioned issue and a kind of slow beginning, though, I really enjoyed The Other Side of Us. It was all kinds of adorable and fun and sexy and swoony. (Did I mentioned Oliver is a musician...?) It balanced all those wonderful factors with real issues, and the result was pretty great. Sarah Mayberry remains one of my favorite contemporary authors.

Next time I will make sure to bring along a laugh track so you know when I’ve been funny.

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Sometimes, the voice in his head was way too much of a smart-ass.

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But she’d worked hard for this body. She’d fought alongside the doctors to keep it alive. She’d struggled against pain and expectation to become strong again. She’d survived and thrived in this body, and she refused to be ashamed of it.

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(Review) An Affair Before Christmas by Eloisa James

Title: An Affair Before Christmas
Author: Eloisa James
Series: Desperate Duchesses #2
Published: November 13, 2007 (Avon)
Rating: Staying in Tonight
Format: Audiobook & ebook, both from library

Summary: One spectacular Christmas, Lady Perdita Selby, known to her friends and family as Poppy, met the man she thought she would love forever. The devilishly attractive Duke of Fletcher was the perfect match for the innocent, breathtakingly beautiful young Englishwoman, and theirs was the most romantic wedding she had ever seen. Four years later, Poppy and the duke have become the toast of the ton... but behind closed doors the spark of their love affair has burned out.

Unwilling to lose the woman he still lusts after, the duke is determined to win back his beguiling bride's delectable affections...and surpass the heady days of first love with a truly sinful seduction.

In all honesty, I picked up this book purely because I knew the Christmas feature was coming up, and I needed to read more Christmas books for it. I was not particularly drawn in by the summary, but I love Eloisa James, so I went ahead and started it. Little did I know what awaited me!

I love reviewing audiobooks. Since I listen to them while doing something (usually driving) during which I can't write, I leave voice messages for myself with my long, rambly, often incoherent thoughts of flailage or anger. Listening to those before I write my review is freaking hilarious. One day I'll transcribe myself or upload it (except not because then you would probably be frightened away by the crazy).

Let me tell you, this book? Caused me to leave some insane comments. At one point, I swear, I was talking like Lorelai Gilmore on speed. I loved so much about this story! Probably my favorite thing is how it flips so many historical romance norms. For instance, the book starts with the couple in love. How often does that happen? However, they were both young and rash, and you know that they really should not have gotten married at that point in their lives. Obviously, the marriage does not work the way either party planned, and the real story starts 4 years after the wedding.

The problem lies in the fact that while 4 years have passed, neither Poppy or Fletch have really developed. They are both still young, and they are stuck trying to fill these roles they do not really know how to fill. They are both still a little immature, and Poppy, especially, is very naïve. Thus, they are unhappy and resentful. Perhaps this does not make for the most likable characters for the first half or more of the book, but I like it because it is real. I could really see that happening for a couple of the time period, and I wanted desperately to know how they were going to solve it.

During the story, I loved watching each of the characters grow individually before they were truly able to address their relationship. Poppy especially had a lot of self-discovery to achieve and a backbone to grow. This book read almost like a new adult novel, but a historical one, and I really liked that about it.

One other thing I loved about the book was how the main story and the side stories intertwined. It reminded me how much I absolutely adore Elijah and Jemma (especially Elijah ♥), as well as how I need to give the book about Villiers another try. I actually got extremely invested in all three(ish) side plots, and I thought James achieved a really great balance between the main and side stories. They were there enough to be intriguing, but mostly, they were not there enough to take away from the main story.

Overall, An Affair Before Christmas is a great read. If you are looking for a realistic, beautiful romance with side characters who are sure to make you want to read the rest of the books in the series, I would absolutely recommend it.

It’s not manly to be so perfect in every way.

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There was no point in letting one’s husband think he was interesting; it would only end in disaster.

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(Review) The Evolution of Mara Dyer by Michelle Hodkin

Title: The Evolution of Mara Dyer
Author: Michelle Hodkin
Series: Mara Dyer #2
Published: October 23, 2012 (Simon & Schuster Books for Young Readers)
Rating: Stay Up 'til 2 AM
Format: Digital ARC from publisher via Edelweiss (Thank you!)

Summary: Mara Dyer once believed she could run from her past. She can’t.

She used to think her problems were all in her head. They aren't.

She couldn't imagine that after everything she’s been through, the boy she loves would still be keeping secrets. She’s wrong.

In this gripping sequel to The Unbecoming of Mara Dyer, the truth evolves and choices prove deadly. What will become of Mara Dyer next?

*Warning: This review contains mild spoilers for the first in the series. Do not read unless you have read The Unbecoming of Mara Dyer.

What a tremendous in second installation in the trilogy! Although I was captivated by the first book in the series, The Unbecoming of Mara Dyer, it fell short in some ways for me. Evolution, however, exceeded my expectations. It was slightly less creepy, which I appreciated, but still just as thrilling and intense. (Seriously. I was alone in the house, curled up into a breathless, tension-filled ball on the downstairs couch for most of it. When I did finish it, my bladder was about to explode, and it was 2 hours past my normal dinner time. Talk about unputdownable!)

Interestingly, I liked almost all the characters better in this book than the first one. Noah was definitely the biggest one. I really tried to like him in Unbecoming because I kept seeing people talk about how amazing he was, but although he had some redeeming qualities, I was less than impressed. In Evolution, though, I grew to love him a lot more. He finally had some depth as a character and acted a lot less like a boy I'd like to punch in the face. I also liked Jamie more in this book; he annoyed me before.

The relationship between Mara and Noah was developed in a way that made me root for them. Although they displayed some codependency, which is popular in YA novels and always annoys me, they were also in nowhere near normal circumstances. Therefore, I could excuse it. They also had some pretty darn swoon-worthy scenes and sexual tension for a YA book, too. Loved it!

Story-wise, this book had some crazy twists and turns! There were some I saw coming and still jumped when they happened. If Hodkin excels at anything, it is writing jaw-dropping, hit-you-over-the-head, OH-MY-GOD-DID-I-REALLY-JUST-READ-THAT-RIGHT scenes.

If the trilogy keeps improving like this, I cannot wait to see what is in store in the concluding book, The Retribution of Mara Dyer (out WAY WAY FAR AWAY D: Summer 2013)!

Random note: I did not notice #213 in this book. I wonder if all the uses of it in Unbecoming were just coincidence, or if it is going to come into play in the next book?

How about an Obi-Wan slash Gandalf slash Dumbledore slash Giles?

---

Sometimes the biggest secrets you can only tell a stranger.

---

Just because you can’t prove something doesn’t mean it isn’t real.

---

“We’re only seventeen.”
“Fuck seventeen. If I were to live a thousand years, I would belong to you for all of them. If we were to live a thousand lives, I would want to make you mine in each one.”

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Review: Solid by Shelley Workinger

Title: Solid (Solid #1)

Author: Shelley Workinger
Published: July 9th 2010 by Createspace
Genre: Young Adult, Science Fiction, Romance.
Rating: ★★★★
Goodreads summary:

Clio Kaid may be 17 and just beginning the last summer before her senior year, but her life is anything but typical.

She's just discovered she was genetically altered before birth and is now headed to a top-secret Army campus to explore the surprising results of the experiment.

Follow Clio and the other teens as they develop fantastic super-abilities, forge new friendships, and find love as they search for answers.

*thanks to the author for supplying me with a review copy of this ebook!*

Emma's thoughts:

I think I fell in love with this book from simply the blurb. I am, if anything, a sucker for these types of novels. Sci-fi, genetic modification... anything science-y... I'm a complete nerd like that. I'm not even joking. You have no idea how disappointed I was when I found out I couldn't do all three science for my year 11/12 examinations. 

Anyways, what I love about this book is that it's not like other sci-fi books. It doesn't keep you in the dark (not at the start at least!) about the truth of these 100 teenagers. Shelley Workinger gives us the facts from the beginning. These teens, while still mere embryos, their DNA was messed with, and yes, they do have 'abilities'; there are the jocks, there are the intense musos... and then there are those who don't really do anything but stand around all day... 

Solid follows the narration of Clio Kaid. She's such a strong and lively protagonist. Witty and almost always ready with a smart comment, she's honestly a delight to read. Shelley Workinger has a lovely prose that keeps you entertained and on your feet. 

I especially love the development of each character. Besides Clio, there's Bliss, Jack, Garrett and Miranda. They're all different and beautifully unique. Bliss is a sweetheart who's too good for Garrett, but I adore Garrett with his guts and determination. And oh Jack... He's the perfect match for Clio. I really wished to see more of their relationship though. There only seemed to be very few significant moments of their relationship. I just couldn't get enough of them! 

I really wished this novel was longer. I remember reading up to a stage, checking the location, and being so surprised to see I was already over 60%! I felt like the story had barely started! That being said, it only encourages me to get onto the next book and find out what happens next. It doesn't really end on a cliffhanger, but Clio and her friends have only just begun the journey of discovering the truth about themselves.

Overall rating: 4 stars~ Science fiction makes me so happy :)

First:

 As per his nighttime routine, he checked the security panel to ensure that the system would alert him of any intrusions on the perimeter he'd set around the lab.

Favourite:

The bigger the ego, the messier the fall...

Teaser:

"That'll be you next, dog boy," Garrett told Nate. "Woof woof."

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Blog Tour: [Review] The Syrenka Series - Betrayal

 As the second part of The Syrenka Series tour, I'll be reviewing the sequel to Promises; Betrayal. Check out the first post about Promises and the lovely author here! There's also a giveaway for an ebook of either Promises, Betrayal or Arise!

Title: Betrayal (The Syrenka Series #2)
Author: Amber Garr
Published: February 20th 2012 by CreateSpace
Genre: Young Adult, Fantasy, Paranormal, Romance.
Rating: ★★★★
Goodreads summary:

Life as a mermaid can be suffocating.

Eviana Dumahl has returned home as a clan leader, an orphan, and a heartbroken teenage girl. Her parents are dead and her boyfriend, Brendan, has decided that he needs some time away. While battling her inner turmoil, Eviana is forced into the war that Lucian Sutherland has incited amongst her own kind. With the help of Kain, her friend and formally betrothed, the two work together to prove that they deserve their birthrights as young merfolk leaders.

When the Council requests a demonstration of Eviana’s mermaid powers, she finds herself with an opportunity to win back Brendan’s heart. But her orders to train with a repulsive merman and the presence of an attractive new suitor challenges Eviana to embrace her leadership and resist temptation. Lucian is after her, and no one seems to understand why. Loyalties are tested as the casualties increase, showing Eviana that sometimes it is impossible to delineate between friends and enemies.

Betrayal is the second book of The Syrenka Series trilogy following Eviana and her friends as they navigate through the challenges of existing in a secret world. 

*Thanks to the author for supplying me a review copy of this ebook in exchange for my honest review*

Emma's thoughts: 

Betrayal begins right where Promises left off. Eviana Dumahl, leader of her clan, has to defend her family, friends and clan when she doesn't even know the first thing about her own kind. She's fighting for moral principles and the sake of humankind. It's hard to fight a war when you don't even know your own capabilities and limitations, but somehow she does it. 

Without Brendan, the love her life - and also a selkie - she has the face the Council, the shunned and mentally disturbed Jeremiah, as well as the ever threatening Lucian who won't stop at anything to get her. Somehow, the solution to all of this, is to manifest their 'mer powers' and manipulate the human and selkie minds - which I actually thought was the reason she was fighting Lucian in the first place. That it's immoral and unethical to take away one's own mind and control them. I suppose the only justification for Eviana is that she's using her powers for the better and not simply because she can. 

She's joined by Graham, the youngest Council member, to learn from Jeremiah how to control her abilities. Graham, British and ever so irresistible, seems to be just as fascinated by her as she is by him. But with Brendan still on her mind and Kain to consider, Graham's just another distraction to her worldly problems.

Amber Garr leaves us hanging onto every moment, desperate to find out what happens next and particularly why. Why is Lucian so determined to find Eviana?

Betrayal is fast-paced and doesn't stop for a moment to let you think. It's exciting and exhilarating and experiencing this journey with Eviana, Kain, Graham and also the occasional appearance of the Abhainn. I cannot wait to find out what happens next in Arise.

Overall rating: 4 stars~ Non-stop, heart racing action.

First:

Justin Bernard got ready for high school just as he'd done for the past four years. Only two more weeks and he would be finished forever.

Favourite:

"I am the master of seduction. Don't you ever forget that little syrenka." He was running backwards now waiting for me to catch up. "You're playing with fire."

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Indie Mania: [Review] Inside Evil by Geoffrey Wakeling

Title: Inside Evil (Inside Evil #1)
Author: Geoffrey Wakeling
Published: March 12th 2012
Genre: Mystery, Thriller, Paranormal.
Rating: ★★★★
Goodreads summary:

Roberta Arlington lives in Ridgewood, a small and sleepy town on the Scottish border, where she is completely content with her life. That is, until she stumbles upon a corpse at the local boarding school and finds that her world starts to unravel into chaos.

As questions begin to emerge as to just how the victim died, Roberta discovers herself caught in a world which she never knew existed. Like a shadow hanging behind Roberta’s own life, another world hovers in the background, waiting silently until trying to break through. Roberta soon discovers that she’ll have to find all the strength she has to survive the path laid before her.

*Thanks to the author for supplying me a copy of this ebook in exchange for my honest review*

Emma's thoughts:

Inside Evil is one of craziest, creepiest, freakiest book I've ever read. I know that's not saying much as I mostly read YA romance fiction, not... this! I mean this all in the nicest and best way possible of course. Inside Evil is one of those book you just cannot put down. Literally. I was scared to stop reading simply because the need to know what the hell was going on is just too strong. And plus, without answers, I was scared to simply walk out my bedroom door! I mean, who knows, a cloaked figure could be waiting outside there for me, ready to tell me: 'Your time's up.' 

The thing is, nothing literally scary happens in the book. There were no gory deaths or attacks of the like. It was simply the pretense of something darker going on than what the author was allowing us to see and I think this is brilliantly done by Wakeling. He has such a powerful way of writing, it just grabs a hold of you and demands your attention.

The story is set in a small faraway town where nobody really visits and nobody really leaves. It's sounds like a comforting little place, the random deaths besides. Roberta's a schoolteacher who finds a student dead at school and has the sudden urge to hurt Susan. Susan's the mother of a dead daughter who'd completely changed personalities months back. Martha's a widow who's husband disappeared mysteriously ten years ago. Sam's just awesome and Karl is a detective off duty who can't seem to let go of the suspicious deaths.

The journey these five go on is eerily terrifying. And it's lovely to see that even though, the blurb only talks about Roberta, the story is told from all five points of view, and even with an additional one near the end. By this, you can see how their lives are interwoven, as if they're part of something much, much greater.

It's really, honestly devastating that book ended where it did. And just like any good cliffhanger, it left me dying in anticipation for the next book. There are so many questions left unanswered, and I just really need to know what happens next.

There's no doubt that this is a book that will stay with me a long while. (That being said, I did have a dream the following night of reading it about walking through a mirror portal. IT WAS FREAKY.. and rather awesome.) I highly commend Geoffrey Wakeling for writing such a fascinating and thrilling novel.

Overall rating: 4 stars~ Utterly chilling to the bone...

First:

Roberta stared vacantly out of the classroom window. The students had long left, leaving her alone with her thoughts and only the dropping sun to gaze at.

Favourite:

"Cats have an uncanny way of living on the cracks of both worlds."

I love cats(: 

Teaser:

...she was such a small nobody living out her life in this huge expanse of the universe. There seemed little need for her worries of the late. Compared to the massive world around her, the incidents of the weeks gone by were simply trivial.

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[Review] Dust Girl by Sarah Zettel

Title: Dust Girl (The American Fairy Trilogy #1)
Author: Sarah Zettel
Published: Expected publication: June 26th 2012 by Random House Books for Young Readers
Rating: ★★★★
Goodreads summary:

This new trilogy will capture the hearts of readers who adore Libba Bray's Gemma Doyle series. Callie LeRoux lives in Slow Run, Kansas, helping her mother run their small hotel and trying not to think about the father she's never met. Lately all of her energy is spent battling the constant storms plaguing the Dust Bowl and their effects on her health. Callie is left alone, when her mother goes missing in a dust storm. Her only hope comes from a mysterious man offering a few clues about her destiny and the path she must take to find her parents in "the golden hills of the west" (California). Along the way she meets Jack a young hobo boy who is happy to keep her company—there are dangerous, desperate people at every turn. And there's also an otherworldly threat to Callie. Warring fae factions, attached to the creative communities of American society, are very aware of the role this half-mortal, half-fae teenage girl plays in their fate.

Emma's thoughts: 

First of all, can I just say that the cover really creeped me out?! I didn't realize the first time I looked, but when I received it on my Kindle... 'OH. MY. GOD.' True story.

Anyways, I love stories about faeries. I remember reading about those rainbow fairies when I was in primary school, but these faeries are downright evil! I mean, reading through this entire book, I could never, ever, ever figure out who to trust. Callie meets so many curious and suspicious characters through her journey, and each were portrayed wonderfully for their parts. But, it was awfully confusing. There's the usual Seelie court, and the Unseelie court. There's all these different types of faeries, and I just couldn't get it right. Who is what? Who can you trust? Who's wants to kill you now!?

There was really not a moment in Dust Girl where you can be calm and just breeze through, because really, it seems like Jack and Callie are always on the run.  It was exciting and refreshing to not have a predictable storyline. I never knew what was going on and where Jack and Callie would end up, but boy was it intense!

Jack was seriously awesome in this book! Callie might've hated his constant chatter, but I loved it. An aspiring writer with a face that no one can resist? Sounds pretty darn close to perfect to me! I'm so glad he gets his closure in the end. 

The whole concept of faeries and wishes was truly magical. The way Sarah Zettel presented the faeries was wonderful. She brought the music, the evil beauty, and the trickery so neatly together. I was truly captured.

I really enjoyed Callie's journey and I can't wait to find out what happens next for her and Jack. So much is due to happen and I hope Callie makes the right decision!

Rating: 4 stars~ Fast-paced and action-packed. Unputdownable!  

*I received an ARC of this book so these quotes are subject to change*

First:

Once upon a time, I was a girl called Callie. That, however, ended on Sunday, April 14, 1935. 

Favourite:

 "Come on, you big bug!" I hefted the frying pan, dripping sticky Coca-Cola glaze. "You wanna take a bite outta me? Come on and try it!"

Teaser:

 “Now that you know the wishing ways, you'll feel the wishes around you. They'll make you itchy, 'cause you know you can do something about them, but that ain't always the best idea.”

Thanks to the publisher for a free copy of this ebook in exchange for my honest review (via Netgalley).

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[Review] Disharmony: The Telling by Leah Giarratano

Title: Disharmony: The Telling
Author: Leah Giarrantano
Expected Publication: May 23rd 2012 by Penguin Books Australia (IT'S MY BIRTHDAY!!!)
Rating: ★★★★
Goodreads summary: 

A psychopath...an empath...a genius.
Three siblings who will save the world – or destroy it.
They know nothing of each other. They know nothing of the Telling.
But they'll need to learn fast if they're going to survive...
A gripping new series about a collision of worlds, the power of destiny, and the darkness in us all...

*thanks to the publishers for the free copy of this ebook (via Netgalley)*

Emma's thoughts:

I absolutely LOVE this whole idea of the psychopath, empath and genius. It's completely and utterly fascinating, and I just really, really, want more.

For the first chapter, we're introduced to this concept of The Telling and how it came about to happening in this parallel universe. It's a little bit strange and quirky, but it's something I haven't read about in a long time. Siblings with powers that are connected somehow...

Meet Samantha and Luke. They don't actually know each other. Samantha resides in some gypsy town in Romania, telling fortunes for a living. You know straight away that she's the empath. It's just the simple way that Leah Giarrantano describes the emotions that Samantha grasps and how it feels completely tangible to her. It's beautiful, really.

Luke however, was a bit of a confusing one for me. I really liked reading about him. He's a mere adolescent who's actually in a juvenile detention centre somewhere in Australia. And he gets into fights a lot, which isn't surprising really. Now figuring out whether he's the psychopath or the genius.. now that took me a while. I couldn't decide if he was a smart or heartless, and I didn't figure it out until the very end, but it's hard to see the psychopathic characteristics of him... I wish I'd seen more of him not understanding emotions and being the polar opposite to Samantha.

So basically all is going well in both lives until they, randomly and completely out of the blue, start getting chased. It's exhilarating and exciting, and I seriously could not put my iPad down! It's utterly amazing when Samantha begins to learn to harness her powers.

I absolutely adored each and every character. Even the 'evil' ones. They were all well written and again, the development in both protagonists is touching. I am so looking forward to the sequel. Agggh, the ending just about killed me! I really can't wait to see what else Leah Giarrantano has in store for us!

Overall Rating: 4 stars~ Kept me holding on until the very end!

First:

Status: Logged in User: Intellicide
I've been awake here since lights out, wondering how to lay all this out for you.

Favourite:

'I am a witch. I might put a spell on you.'
'Too late,' he said.

Teaser:

'Either way,' Samantha said, 'Your tower will crumble.'

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[Review] Touch by Jus Accardo

Title: Touch (Denazen #1)
Author: Jus Accardo
Published: November 1st 2011 by Entangled Publishing
Genre: Young Adult, Romance, Contemporary, Humor.
Rating: ★★★★
Goodreads summary:

  When a strange boy tumbles down a river embankment and lands at her feet, seventeen-year-old adrenaline junkie Deznee Cross snatches the opportunity to piss off her father by bringing the mysterious hottie with ice blue eyes home.
  Except there’s something off with Kale. He wears her shoes in the shower, is overly fascinated with things like DVDs and vases, and acts like she’ll turn to dust if he touches her. It’s not until Dez’s father shows up, wielding a gun and knowing more about Kale than he should, that Dez realizes there’s more to this boy—and her father’s “law firm”—than she realized.
  Kale has been a prisoner of Denazen Corporation—an organization devoted to collecting “special” kids known as Sixes and using them as weapons—his entire life. And, oh yeah, his touch? It kills. The two team up with a group of rogue Sixes hellbent on taking down Denazen before they’re caught and her father discovers the biggest secret of all. A secret Dez has spent her life keeping safe.
   A secret Kale will kill to protect.

Emma's thoughts:

Cover:

Definitely not how I imagined Kale to look like... Somehow, I thought he'd look a tad more innocent. And that's the bummer about literal faces on front covers, because they're never how I imagine them to be! 

First Impression: 

HIS NAME IS KALE! HIS NAME IS KALE!!!!!!!!!!! Only Racquel will fathom my love for the name Kale. I can't even explain it, but that name! Is just.. AHH. I LOVE IT! If I don't find and marry a guy named Kale, I will name my child Kale so someone will have the pleasure of marrying a fine male specimen named Kale.

Plot:

Touch, meet Shatter Me, your long lost sister! Oh and, also, here's The Unbecoming of Mara Dyer too, because I'm pretty sure you're related somehow. All three revolve around this idea of this power of killing people. Touch and Shatter Me involve touching the victim in order to kill. And as much as I love the idea of these so-called powers and the vast range of possibilities that 'powers' hold, it's just being overdone! And I also hate that I feel like I would've liked Touch better if I hadn't read Shatter Me recently.

There's also that recurring theme of the 'evil people' recruiting (or kidnapping) those with powers to use it for the lesser good. In this case, it's the Denazen. A prison in a law-firm disguise, which Dez's father owns.

I liked the explanation of the name 'Sixes'. It's the genetic abnormality in the sixth chromosome. But then... *googles sixth chromosome* Contains the Major Histocompatibility Complex and plays a vital role in organ transplantation? Um... okay then... And, and, and, it's never really explained how Kale can touch Dez, but no one else! Well, it's not explained, period! There better be some answers in the sequel! Because I hate not knowing why weird things like that happen.

Characters:

Technicalities aside... I cannot get over Kale. When you first meet him, he's this clueless child who has no idea whatsoever what the word 'complicated' implies. And then, his mind blossoms and blooms. It's beautiful. He holds Dez's hand because he sees another couple doing it. He's in awe of the little things we take for granted. Television, cheese and chocolate... But he's not stupid, he's far from stupid. He's a little bit protective and possessive of Dez, and it's freaking adorable! And whenever he's confused, I imagine him wide-eyed and innocent looking... but it breaks my heart how honest he is. He's got so much to learn and to see, I just cannot wait for the next book. But read this: Untouched. It's a novella from his perspective following Touch. 

Dez makes an awesome heroine. She's strong, ruthless, and smart. Oh, and she knows some moves too. I was a bit iffy with her at the start. Because one, who runs off with the guy that potentially and intentionally tried to kill you?! And two, her life's purpose is to piss off her dad? I don't know, but it's just a weird concept to me. If he was playing the concerned dad role, then what more does she want to get yelled at for? But nevertheless, Dez grew on me. She's smart, and even if I didn't agree with some of her decisions, she managed to make it work! And well, she's perfect with Kale. The way they turn all googly eyed around each other makes me want to believe in love(: 

Thinking about all the other characters makes my head spin! Ginger, Dez's dad, Alex, Mercy, Brandt... Look there's a Six. There's another Six! Oh, look, he's a Six too! This place is crawling with Sixes... But who to trust? Who's not going to come stab them in the back!? Who, who, who??

Overall:

I read this for Kale. I read this in hope of finding reliable people. It was an intense, action-packed journey. Overused words, I know, but I couldn't put this book down! Definitely one to be read in a single sitting.


Overall Rating: 4 stars~ KALE KALE KALE! NUFF SAID!

First:

 I couldn't see them, but I knew they were there, waiting at the bottom.

Cute Things That Kale Said:

"Why does my heart pump faster when we're close? How is it you do that to me?"

 ...I heard Kale tell Fin to stop staring at my ass or he was going to punish him. 

"...If I had the ability to touch anyone else in this world, I still don't believe I'd want it to be anyone but you." 

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Blog Tour: [Review] Night Sky by Jolene Perry

Title: Night Sky
Author: Jolene B. Perry
Published: March 1st 2012 by Tribute Books
Genre: YA contemporary romance
Rating: ★★★★
Goodreads summary:

Girl I’ve loved, girl I’m falling for. Now that they’re both in view, the problem is clear.

After losing Sarah, the friend he’s loved, to some other guy, Jameson meets Sky. Her Native American roots, fluid movements, and need for brutal honesty become addictive fast. This is good. Jameson needs distraction – his dad leaves for another woman, his mom’s walking around like a zombie, and Sarah’s new boyfriend can’t keep his hands off of her.

As he spends time with Sky and learns about her village, her totems, and her friends with drums - she's way more than distraction. Jameson's falling for her fast.

But Sky’s need for honesty somehow doesn’t extend to her life story – and Jameson just may need more than his new girl to keep him distracted from the disaster of his senior year.

Emma's thoughts:

I really, really, really love reading books from male POV's. And heellooo Jameson! Why do you not exist? Reading from Jay's perspective was utterly enthralling! If you're like me and get constantly aggravated and confused by boys and their incomprehensible decisions, read this! Although Jameson isn't like that. He's decent, more than that, he's genuine. Damn Sarah for being so blind. Damn Sky for being so lucky.

Night Sky starts off typically. He's in love with his best friend, she gets with another guy, he's depressed, blah blah blah. But when you meet Sky, it's like wooah. Take a step back ladies and gentlemen! Her personality oozes confidence and beauty. I don't blame Jay for liking her at all. People are drawn to confidence and Sky is the damn epitome of it. 'Are you gonna drive me to your house, offer me a Pepsi and get me into your pool?' Um, what guy isn't going to say yes to that?

Their relationship is quirky and hot. They depend on each other's honesty, they tell the truth. I love the way Jolene Perry wrote this. Jameson's drawn to the honesty, he begins to love it, crave it. Watching his character change and develop throughout the story is a touching journey.

I truly enjoyed how realistic yet surprising Night Sky. There are twists that you would never imagine happening in a million years, but Perry makes it real. His emotions are real, his feelings, the things that he does. I could see it playing out in my mind, the way that Jameson reacted to situations. It never felt forced or unbelievable. I admire Jolene Perry for writing so beautiful from a guy's perspective.

Rating: 4 stars~ I just couldn't get enough of Jameson♥

First:

 I push my way through the masses of dancing couples, out the heavy doors of the school, and stop.

Favourite:

 "...if you don't like her enough to ask, you don't like her enough to go out with her."

Teaser:

 "I'm sorry that kissing me is so torturous for you."

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