Ringmaster by Brianna Hale

Ringmaster by Brianna Hale

Published by Amazon.com Services LLC

Published on May 13, 2020

Genre(s): Action &Adventure, Romance, Fiction

Page Count: 394

Source: Enticing Journey Book Promotions

Format: eBook

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Description: Cale has the circus in his blood. As ringmaster and owner of Meriful’s Traveling Circus, his world is the arena, the spectacle and the heat of the spotlight. He looks out for his ragtag troupe of performers as if they’re his family, because after tragedy struck, they are.

Ryah’s been battered and bruised by life and is ready to give up. Then Cale finds her, and she runs away to join Meriful’s Traveling Circus and becomes the horseback acrobatics star she’s always dreamed of being.

What ultimately calls to her is Cale’s dangerous knife-throwing act, and the thrill of putting her life in his hands. Soon, she doesn’t want to be just part of his act. Cale’s doing his best to resist the fragile eighteen-year-old. He’s the ringmaster, but lately he’s been wondering… Who’s running rings around who? 

Hello Readers.

I am sitting here trying to figure out where to start. This book was sent to me to read and review. It looked promising and I was excited to read it. I was not prepared at all. 

This book was truly wonderful. Beautifully written. Enticing characters. I could see myself befriending some of these people. The chemistry was outstanding. That is a very big deal. Some books have characters with no chemistry or lukewarm chemistry. This book actually makes me think that the author has experienced real chemistry. In fact, I have a new book boyfriend now. 

I am rating this book Five Blue Books because it was so good. I was drawn in from page one. I would love to read more about the characters. It was a fantastic journey and it made me want to join Meriful's Traveling Circus. Highly recommend.

InkedBookDragon

Little Secrets by Jennifer Hillier

Little Secrets by Jennifer Hillier

Published by Minotaur Books

Published on April 21, 2020

Genre(s): Thriller, Mystery, Fiction, Suspense

Page Count: 352

Source: Gifted

Format: Kindle

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Description: Overwhelmed by tragedy, a woman desperately tries to save her marriage in award-winning author Jennifer Hillier's Little Secrets, a riveting novel of psychological suspense.

All it takes to unravel a life is one little secret...

Marin had the perfect life. Married to her college sweetheart, she owns a chain of upscale hair salons, and Derek runs his own company. They're admired in their community and are a loving family—until their world falls apart the day their son Sebastian is taken.

A year later, Marin is a shadow of herself. The FBI search has gone cold. The publicity has faded. She and her husband rarely speak. She hires a P.I. to pick up where the police left off, but instead of finding Sebastian, she learns that Derek is having an affair with a younger woman. This discovery sparks Marin back to life. She's lost her son; she's not about to lose her husband, too. Kenzie is an enemy with a face, which means this is a problem Marin can fix.

Permanently.

Hello Readers.

This book was gifted to me from one of my best friends. She read an ARC of it and sent me a copy of it the day it released. I finally got to read it this week and I am so glad that I did. I got really into the story and even would send my friend messages about what I was reading. I was all in. 

I was pulled deeply into this book the first scene and plowed through it in less than a day. I started it one evening and finished it the next afternoon. I am sure that I would have read it faster but I had to person a little. The characters were wonderfully flawed. Driven by emotions, their actions left me in shock at times. A true roller coaster. I laughed. I cried. I wanted blood. 

I am rating this book Five Blue Books because it was an incredible book and I absolutely loved it. I will be reading all the other work by the author. I will definitely be watching for new releases. Highly recommend. 

InkedBookdragon

The New Husband by D.J. Palmer

The New Husband by D.J. Palmer

Published by St. Martin's Press

Published on April 14, 2020

Genre(s): Thriller, Mystery, Fiction, Suspense, Psychological Thriller, Contemporary

Page Count: 384

Source: Publisher

Format: ARC

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Description: What makes Simon Fitch so perfect?

-He knows all her favorite foods, music, and movies.

-Her son adores him. He was there when she needed him most.

-He anticipates her every need.

-He would never betray her like her first husband.

The perfect husband. He checks all the boxes.

The question is, why?

Nina Garrity learned the hard way that her missing husband, Glen, had been leading a double life with another woman. But with Glen gone―presumably drowned while fishing on his boat―she couldn't confront him about the affair or find closure to the life he blew apart.

Now, a year and a half later, Nina has found love again and hopes she can put her shattered world back together. Simon, a widower still grieving the death of his first wife, thinks he has found his dream girl in Nina, and his charm and affections help break through to a heart hardened by betrayal. Nina's teenage son, Connor, embraces Simon as the father he wishes his dad could have been, while her friends see a different side to him, and they aren't afraid to use the word obsession.

Nina works hard to bridge the divide that’s come between her daughter and Simon. She wants so badly to believe her life is finally getting back on track, but she’ll soon discover that the greatest danger to herself and her children are the lies people tell themselves.

Hello Readers.

I was sent an ARC of this book and was really excited about reading it. I loved the other book written by D.J. Palmer and was delighted to hear that there was a new book. The premise looked so promising. Life got a little crazy so I did not get to read it as soon as I got it. Thankfully, I finally got to read it. 

I had such high expectations for this book. Perhaps they were too high going into it. The first chapter started out strong. The scenario was intriguing and I wanted to read as much as I could. I ended up reading five chapters that night before I needed to sleep. I wish that I could say that the momentum continued but it did not. The book became quite slow and even drug in some parts. I developed a love-hate relationship with some of the characters. I liked them at first and then grew to hate them as the book continued then liked them by the end. I wanted to throttle some of them at times. 

I am rating this book Three Orange Books because I liked it but it was really touch and go for a bit there. It took way too long for me to read. I tried to get into it more but there were moments that I wanted to read anything and everything else. I may be able to go back and read it again and feel differently about it but a three is all that I can give it now. I am not sure if I would recommend it.

InkedBookDragon

Five Feet Apart by Rachael Lippincott with Mikki Daughtry and Tobias Iaconis

Five Feet Apart by Rachael Lippincott with Mikki Daughtry and Tobias Iaconis

Published by Simon Schuster Books for Young Readers

Published on November 20, 2018

Genre(s): Young Adult, Romance, Contemporary, Fiction

Page Count: 288

Source: Purchased

Format: Hardback

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Description: Can you love someone you can never touch?

Stella Grant likes to be in control—even though her totally out of control lungs have sent her in and out of the hospital most of her life. At this point, what Stella needs to control most is keeping herself away from anyone or anything that might pass along an infection and jeopardize the possibility of a lung transplant. Six feet apart. No exceptions.

The only thing Will Newman wants to be in control of is getting out of this hospital. He couldn’t care less about his treatments, or a fancy new clinical drug trial. Soon, he’ll turn eighteen and then he’ll be able to unplug all these machines and actually go see the world, not just its hospitals.

Will’s exactly what Stella needs to stay away from. If he so much as breathes on Stella she could lose her spot on the transplant list. Either one of them could die. The only way to stay alive is to stay apart. But suddenly six feet doesn’t feel like safety. It feels like punishment.

What if they could steal back just a little bit of the space their broken lungs have stolen from them? Would five feet apart really be so dangerous if it stops their hearts from breaking too?

Hello Readers.

I purchased this book after a friend kept mentioning it. She thought it was something that I would enjoy. I bought the book and then set it aside to read when I got a chance. Then I did what I seem to always do, I forgot that I had it. This week, I decided to finally read it. 

I am furious with myself about not reading this sooner. I am proud of myself for avoiding the film that released in 2019 prior to reading the book. I am currently watching the movie. Yes, you read that right. I am watching the movie as I am writing the review of the book. I have not wanted to leave these characters. 

I am rating this book Five Blue Books because I am not sure that I could love it more than I do. This will most likely be a book that I reread often. The author has another book coming out in October of this year. I cannot wait to read it! As for Five Feet Apart, I highly recommend.

InkedBookDragon

The Idea of You by Robinne Lee

The Idea Of You by Robinne Lee

Published by St. Martin's Griffin

Published on June 13th 2017

Genres: Romance, Fiction, Contemporary, Women's Fiction, Chick Lit

Page Count: 372

Source: Purchased

Format: Kindle

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Description: When Solène Marchand, the thirty-nine-year-old owner of a prestigious art gallery in Los Angeles, takes her daughter, Isabelle, to meet her favorite boy band, she does so reluctantly and at her ex-husband’s request. The last thing she expects is to make a connection with one of the members of the world-famous August Moon. But Hayes Campbell is clever, winning, confident, and posh, and the attraction is immediate. That he is all of twenty years old further complicates things.

What begins as a series of clandestine trysts quickly evolves into a passionate relationship. It is a journey that spans continents as Solène and Hayes navigate each other’s disparate worlds: from stadium tours to international art fairs to secluded hideaways. And for Solène, it is as much a reclaiming of self, as it is a rediscovery of happiness and love. When their romance becomes a viral sensation, and both she and her daughter become the target of rabid fans and an insatiable media, Solène must face how her new status has impacted not only her life, but the lives of those closest to her.

Hello Readers.

This book was recommended to me by a friend. She as absolutely raving about it. Our tastes are very similar so I knew that I had to read it. She knows me very well so this recommendation was right on the mark. 

Perfection. Yes, I said "Perfection". This book was extraordinary. Amazing characters and scenarios. I was not reading the book. I was in the book. I love when a book takes over the reader's mind in that manner. 

I am rating this book Five Blue Books because it was incredible. I was heartbroken when I looked into the author and saw that this is the only thing that they have written so far. I would love to read any future offerings. I cannot recommend this book enough!

InkedBookDragon

Currently reading: Meet Me At The Cupcake Cafe by Jenny Colgan and After All by Heidi McLaughlin

BLOG TOUR : FOUL IS FAIR

Foul Is Fair 

By Hannah Capin

Published by Wednesday Books

Published on February 18th 2020

Hannah Capin's Foul is Fair is a bloody, thrilling revenge fantasy for the girls who have had enough. Golden boys beware: something wicked this way comes.

Jade and her friends Jenny, Mads, and Summer rule their glittering LA circle. Untouchable, they have the kind of power other girls only dream of. Every party is theirs and the world is at their feet. Until the night of Jade's sweet sixteen, when they crash a St. Andrew’s Prep party. The night the golden boys choose Jade as their next target.

They picked the wrong girl.

Sworn to vengeance, Jade transfers to St. Andrew’s Prep. She plots to destroy each boy, one by one. She'll take their power, their lives, and their control of the prep school's hierarchy. And she and her coven have the perfect way in: a boy named Mack, whose ambition could turn deadly.

Here is an excerpt:

Foul is Fair

"Fierce, vicious, and electric. If books had teeth, Foul Is Fair would have fangs. Capin's language glitters dark and her writing cuts deep. Revenge is a dish best served by this deliciously unapologetic coven." - Laurie Elizabeth Flynn, author of Firsts and Last Girl Lied To

"Capin’s writing will seduce you with its beauty and then, when you least suspect it, slice you to the bone—just like Foul is Fair’s captivating, vicious, entirely unforgettable heroine, Jade." - Layne Fargo, author of Temper and co-host of Unlikeable Female Characters Podcast

“Vicious and beautifully brutal, Foul is Fair gives a sword to every girl who has ever been a victim and makes them a warrior. This book is pulls no punches and will make anyone think twice before uttering the phrase ‘just a girl’. An unapologetic feminist battle-cry that leaves you breathless and thirsting for vengeance.” - Sonia Hartl, author of Have a Little Faith in Me

"Foul is Fair delivers the story of a girl who snatches control back from a world that stole it away, through whatever means necessary. Hannah Capin deftly combines stunningly lyrical prose with the raw power of engulfing fury, sending a message written in blood. In a world where too many are forced into silence, this book roars back." - S. Gonzales, author of The Law of Inertia and Only Mostly Devastated

Buy here: https://wednesdaybooks.com/the-real-deal/foul-is-fair/

Author bio:

Hannah Capin is the author of Foul is Fair and The Dead Queens Club, a feminist retelling of the wives of Henry VIII. When she isn’t writing, she can be found singing, sailing, or pulling marathon gossip sessions with her girl squad. She lives in Tidewater, Virginia.

Author’s Twitter/Instagram: @tldaaollf

Virtually Perfect by Paige Roberts

Virtually Perfect by Paige Roberts

Published by Kensington

Published on September 26th, 2017

Genres: Fiction, Chick Lit, Contemporary, Women's Fiction

Page Count: 352

Source: Kindle Unlimited

Format: Kindle

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Description: Not so long ago, Lizzie Glass had a successful TV show, a cookbook deal, and a social diary crammed with parties and events. But fame doesn’t stay fresh for long. Her show fizzles, her magazine column is canceled, and Lizzie’s only option is a summer job as personal chef to the Silvesters, a wealthy and eccentric family.

Their beach house is a lavish, beautifully decorated palace on the Jersey Shore, and Lizzie gets to work catering to Kathryn and Jim Silvester’s fashionably restrictive diets. But it’s their twenty-something daughter who presents Lizzie with her biggest challenge—professionally and personally. A self-proclaimed “wellness warrior,” Zoe Silvester has a hugely popular website and app that promotes healthy living and organic, unprocessed foods. Yet Lizzie soon realizes that The Clean Life site has a dirty little secret. In fact, Zoe’s entire online persona is based on a dangerous hoax that runs deep and will damage lives. Exposing Zoe won’t just jeopardize Lizzie’s job and a promising new relationship—it may expose the cracks in her own past.

Sharply observed, witty, and thoughtful, Paige Roberts’ debut novel is a compelling look at one woman’s journey toward reinventing herself—and seeing through the façade of others—to discover the imperfect but sometimes wonderful truth. 

Hello again.

I came across this book not long ago when perusing the options on Kindle Unlimited. For those of you that are not familiar with Kindle Unlimited, it is a subscription service where you pay a fee every month to have access to thousands of kindle books.  I love it. I have been introduced to a number of fantastic authors through Kindle Unlimited. I have "checked out" so many books that I might not have come in contact with otherwise. Wrapping up this Kindle Unlimited advertisement now. Back to this review.

Virtually Perfect was a fun debut. It captivated my attention and I found myself rooting for the main character. Some of the characters made me actually cringe. That was not for poor writing but rather excellent writing. The characters were so similar to some that I have encountered that I wanted them to immediately fail. I admit that I can be salty at times. It happens. This book was a great look at how "the other half lives" and that money does not necessarily imply intelligence. Fantastic imagery. I pictured the layout of locations and people with ease. When food was described, I would sometimes start daydreaming about it and wondering how difficult it might be to create. 

I am rating this book Four Red Books because I truly enjoyed reading it. There were some points that did not flow as well as other points and that is really my only reason for deducting a book. At the time of this review, the author has one other book out and I will be reading it soon. Definitely someone to watch. Recommend.

InkedBookDragon

Currently reading: After All by Heidi McLaughlin  and Pretty Reckless by L. J. Shen.

The Wives by Tarryn Fisher

The Wives by Tarryn Fisher

Published by Graydon House

Published on December 30th 2019

Genres: Thriller, Mystery, Fiction, Suspense

Page Count: 336

Source: Publisher

Format: Paperback

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Description: Imagine that your husband has two other wives.

You’ve never met the other wives. None of you know each other, and because of this unconventional arrangement, you can see your husband only one day a week. But you love him so much you don’t care. Or at least that’s what you’ve told yourself.

But one day, while you’re doing laundry, you find a scrap of paper in his pocket—an appointment reminder for a woman named Hannah, and you just know it’s another of the wives.

You thought you were fine with your arrangement, but you can’t help yourself: you track her down, and, under false pretenses, you strike up a friendship. Hannah has no idea who you really are. Then, Hannah starts showing up to your coffee dates with telltale bruises, and you realize she’s being abused by her husband. Who, of course, is also your husband. But you’ve never known him to be violent, ever.

Who exactly is your husband, and how far would you go to find the truth? Would you risk your own life?

And who is his mysterious third wife?

Hello Readers.

"What in the world did I just read?" I frequently asked myself this as I read The Wives. This is the second book by Tarryn Fisher that I have read. The first one was Never Never that she co-wrote with Colleen Hoover. I was not sure if I would like her writing style. There was a lot of talk about this one. Those of you that have been around a while know how I feel about hyped up books. I usually shy away from them. An ARC of this book was delivered to my house. This meant, hype or not, I was going to read it. 

Where do I begin with this one? Complex characters. Some likeable and some were not. The reader is thrown curve balls throughout the story. There were multiple times that I stopped and thought, "Whoa...what?" It kept me guessing. I love that. I do not care for books that I can guess within the first few chapters. I like books that keep me wondering what is about to happen. This one was great for that. 

I am rating this book Five Blue Books because it kept me on my toes. It was a roller coaster read and I loved it. I will be looking more into the author's body of work. Highly recommend.

InkedBookDragon

Currently reading: The Giver of Stars by Jojo Moyes, Repeat by Kylie Scott, and Space Between: Explorations of Love, Sex, and Fluidity by Nico Tortorella

Vox by Christina Dalcher

Vox by Christina Dalcher

Published by Berkley

Published on August 21st 2018

Genres: Fiction, Science Fiction, Feminism, Dystopian

Page Count: 336

Source: Purchased

Format: Kindle

Description: Set in an America where half the population has been silenced, VOX is the harrowing, unforgettable story of what one woman will do to protect herself and her daughter.

On the day the government decrees that women are no longer allowed to speak more than 100 words daily, Dr. Jean McClellan is in denial—this can't happen here. Not in America. Not to her.

This is just the beginning.

Soon women can no longer hold jobs. Girls are no longer taught to read or write. Females no longer have a voice. Before, the average person spoke sixteen thousand words a day, but now women only have one hundred to make themselves heard.

But this is not the end.

For herself, her daughter, and every woman silenced, Jean will reclaim her voice.

Hello again.

I read this book a while back and thought that I had already reviewed it. It was sitting there in my drafts folder. Whoops. I guess that I got distracted and did not finish it. That happens sometimes. Life.

I bought this book after reading about it. I had read dystopian books and had liked many of them so I thought I would give this one a read. If I summed this book up with one word, it would be "Wow". I am not sure I was prepared for it. There were moments where I was genuinely uncomfortable. In fact, the next book that I read, I read out loud...just to speak.

The characters were well written. The way that they interacted did not feel forced when there were times where they could have been. The situations were terrifying. The ending felt setup for another book so the readers may be waiting for a sequel.

I am rating this book Four Red Books because it was a good book but the ending did not quite have the flow of the rest of it. I read it one afternoon with no breaks so that you should tell you something. Parts of it still haunt me. Recommend. 

InkedBookDragon

Currently reading: Tell Me Three Things by Julie Buxbaum, The Wives by Tarryn Fisher, The Giver of Stars by Jojo Moyes

The Nanny By GIlly Macmillan

The Nanny by Gilly Macmillan

Published by Willam Morrow

Published on September 10th 2019

Genres: Mystery, Thriller, Fiction

Page Count: 400

Source: Purchased

Format: Kindle

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Description: The New York Times bestselling author of What She Knew conjures a dark and unpredictable tale of family secrets that explores the lengths people will go to hurt one another.

When her beloved nanny, Hannah, left without a trace in the summer of 1988, seven-year-old Jocelyn Holt was devastated. Haunted by the loss, Jo grew up bitter and distant, and eventually left her parents and Lake Hall, their faded aristocratic home, behind.

Thirty years later, Jo returns to the house and is forced to confront her troubled relationship with her mother. But when human remains are accidentally uncovered in a lake on the estate, Jo begins to question everything she thought she knew.

Then an unexpected visitor knocks on the door and Jo’s world is destroyed again. Desperate to piece together the gaping holes in her memory, Jo must uncover who her nanny really was, why she left, and if she can trust her own mother…

In this compulsively readable tale of secrets, lies, and deception, Gilly Macmillan explores the darkest impulses and desires of the human heart. Diabolically clever, The Nanny reminds us that sometimes the truth hurts so much you’d rather hear the lie.

Hello Readers.

I bought this book as a treat for myself. I read the synopsis and had to read it. I had never read a book by Gilly Macmillan but was quite interested. It felt like a book that I would really enjoy.

This book was everything that I was wanting. Intriguing, complex, deep, and with strong characters. It was intoxicating in a way. I hated to stop reading to sleep. I had questions and I wanted answers. That is a sign of a well written mystery. I was hanging on every word.

I am rating this book Four Red Books because it was a great read. It is getting four books instead of five because there were some parts that were a little wordy and some parts that I guessed early on. Definitely worth a read. Fantastic. 

InkedBookDragon

Currently reading: Tell Me Three Things by Juliie Buxbaum, The Wives by Tarryn Fisher, and The Giver of Stars by Jojo Moyes

Anonymous Girl by Greer Hendricks and Sarah Pekkesan

An Anonymous Girl by Greer Hendricks & Sarah Pekkanen

Published by St. Martin's Press

Published on January 8th, 2019

Genres: Thriller, Mystery, Fiction, Suspense

Page Count: 375

Source: Gift

Format: Hardback

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Description: Seeking women ages 18–32 to participate in a study on ethics and morality. Generous compensation. Anonymity guaranteed.

When Jessica Farris signs up for a psychology study conducted by the mysterious Dr. Shields, she thinks all she’ll have to do is answer a few questions, collect her money, and leave.

Question #1: Could you tell a lie without feeling guilt?

But as the questions grow more and more intense and invasive and the sessions become outings where Jess is told what to wear and how to act, she begins to feel as though Dr. Shields may know what she’s thinking… and what she’s hiding.

Question #2: Have you ever deeply hurt someone you care about?

As Jess’s paranoia grows, it becomes clear that she can no longer trust what in her life is real, and what is one of Dr. Shields’ manipulative experiments. Caught in a web of deceit and jealousy, Jess quickly learns that some obsessions can be deadly.

Question #3: Should a punishment always fit the crime?


Hello again.

After being blown away by The Wife Between Us, I was greatly looking forward to this book. I started it as soon as I could and had trouble stepping away from it when I had to "adult". Being responsible can be annoying at times. I love when books make me feel this way.

This book stayed in my thoughts when I was away from it. I loved some of the characters. I absolutely hated some of the others. They were wonderfully written but they were so infuriating that I wanted to throw my book. I would daydream about physically harming them. I assume that was what the authors were going for with this book. They did a great job.

I am rating this book Five Blue Books because I loved it. It kept my interest and I hated to see it end. I felt invested. Highly recommend.


InkedBookDragon


Currently reading: The Overdue Life of Amy Byler & Lucky Caller by Emma Mills, and She Died Famous by Kyle Rutkin

The First Mistake by Sandie Jones

The First Mistake by Sandie Jones

Published by Minotaur Books

Published on June 11th 2019

Genres: Thriller, Mystery, Fiction, Suspense

Page Count: 304

Source: Publisher

Format: Paperback

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Description: From Sandie Jones, the author of the Reese Witherspoon x Hello Sunshine Book Club Pick and New York Times bestseller The Other Woman, comes an addictively readable new domestic suspense about a wife, her husband, and the woman who is supposedly her best friend.

THE WIFE: For Alice, life has never been better. With her second husband, she has a successful business, two children, and a beautiful house.

HER HUSBAND: Alice knows that life could have been different if her first husband had lived, but Nathan's arrival into her life gave her back the happiness she craved.

HER BEST FRIEND: Through the ups and downs of life, from celebratory nights out to comforting each other through loss, Alice knows that with her best friend Beth by her side, they can survive anything together. So when Nathan starts acting strangely, Alice turns to Beth for help. But soon, Alice begins to wonder whether her trust has been misplaced . . .

The first mistake could be her last. 

Hello again.

To say that I was excited to receive an arc of this book is an understatement. I had heard that Sandie Jones had written a sophomore novel and I could not wait to get my hands on it. Her previous book, "The Other Woman" was a real page-turner so I was beyond intrigued. Let the review begin...

Bravo! Most authors will tell you that it is super difficult to write that second book, especially if the first one was a big hit. Everyone expects greatness. Some fall horribly short. Some write meh books. Some write really good books. This was a really good book. 

Like a great puzzle, the pieces of this story fit together perfectly. The characters were layered. The characters were realistic. They were beautifully flawed. 

I am rating this book Five Blue Books because I greatly enjoyed it. I would have read it in one setting if I had been given the chance. It truly was that good. The author has her third book coming out this year and I cannot wait. Highly recommend this author and this book. 

InkedBookDragon

Currently reading: Pines by Blake Crouch, She Died Famous by Kyle Rutkin, and Lucky Caller by Emma Mills

Fantasticland by Mike Bockoven

Fantasticland by Mike Bockoven

Published by Skyhorse

Published on November 20th 2018 (October 11th 2016)

Genres: Horror, Fiction, Thriller

Page Count: 304

Source: Purchased

Format: Paperback

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Description: Since the 1970s, FantasticLand has been the theme park where "Fun is Guaranteed!" But when a hurricane ravages the Florida coast and isolates the park, the employees find it anything but fun. Five weeks later, the authorities who rescue the survivors encounter a scene of horror. Photos soon emerge online of heads on spikes outside of rides and viscera and human bones littering the gift shops, breaking records for hits, views, likes, clicks, and shares. How could a group of survivors, mostly teenagers, commit such terrible acts?

Presented as a fact-finding investigation and a series of first-person interviews, FantasticLand pieces together the grisly series of events. Park policy was that the mostly college-aged employees surrender their electronic devices to preserve the authenticity of the FantasticLand experience. Cut off from the world and left on their own, the teenagers soon form rival tribes who viciously compete for food, medicine, social dominance, and even human flesh. This new social network divides the ravaged dreamland into territories ruled by the Pirates, the ShopGirls, the Freaks, and the Mole People. If meticulously curated online personas can replace private identities, what takes over when those constructs are lost?

FantasticLand is a modern take on Lord of the Flies meets Battle Royale that probes the consequences of a social civilization built online.

Hello Readers.

I encountered this book in an online book group chat. A member wanted to read it and I was intrigued so we did a buddy read. With my love of both Lord of the Flies and Battle Royale, the premise interested me. I had to see the author's approach on such a macabre concept. 

Wow. Yes, you read that right. My response to this story is "Wow." I could not stop reading this book once I started it. It pulled me in and refused to let me go. It haunted my thoughts when I wasn't reading it. There were moments that I am not sure I will ever forget. 

The author's mastery of the story is impressive. The format might throw some people but the flow of the story is so captivating that I completely forgot about it. Rich, complex characters. Perfect examples of mob mentality and overall herd logic. This is a powerful book. 

I am rating this book Five Blue Books because I read it months ago and it has stayed with me. I purchased the other book by this author and hope to read it in the nexrt month or so because I have to know if it is even half the book that Fantasticland is. A reread may also be in order soon. Highly recommend.

InkedBookDragon

Currently reading: Pines by Blake Crouch, She Died Famous by Kyle Rutkin, and Lucky Caller by Emma Mills

The Break Down by B. A. Paris

The Break Down by B.A. Paris

Published by: St. Martin's Griffin (reprint edition)

Published on May 22nd, 2018 

Genres: Thriller, Mystery, Fiction, Suspense, Psychological Thriller

Page Count: 352

Source: Gifted

Format:Paperback

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Description: If you can’t trust yourself, who can you trust?

Cass is having a hard time since the night she saw the car in the woods. It was on the winding rural road, in the middle of a downpour, and a woman was sitting inside―the woman who was killed. She’s been trying to put the crime out of her mind; what could she have done, really? It’s a dangerous road to be on in the middle of a storm, and she probably would have been hurt herself if she’d stopped. Not only that, her husband would be furious if he knew she’d broken her promise not to take that shortcut home.

But since then, she’s been forgetting every little thing. Where she left the car; if she took her pills; even the alarm code.

The only thing she can’t forget is that woman, the woman she might have saved, and the terrible nagging guilt.

And the silent calls she’s receiving, or the feeling that someone’s watching her…

Hello Readers.

I was given this book as a present this past Christmas. I had put it on my wishlist because it intrigued me. I had heard things about the author so I wanted to try some of her work. I thought this book would be a good read and it did not disappoint. 

Where do I begin? Hmm...this book was extremely hard to put down once I started it. I grabbed it for a long trip for the holidays.  I was pulled into the story almost immediately and was a bit heartbroken when I had to step away from it and socialize. I would think about it when I couldn't read it and could not wait to get back to it. 

The characters were complex and surprising. I thought that I could probably be friends with some of them. It really takes skill to write characters so multi-dimensional that the reader wants to befriend them. Bravo for that! 

This book did not feel like it was over 300 pages. It flowed beautifully. I was captivated the entire time.  I did not experience any lag. That is super rare. 

I am rating this book Five Blue Books because I think it is absolutely incredible. I added all of the author's work to my TBR and greatly look forward to reading more of it. Highly recommend!

InkedBookDragon

Currently reading: P.S. I Like You by Kasie West, Ash Princess by Laura Sebastian, The First Mistake by Sandie Jones, and The Grace Year by Kim Liggett

The Assistants by Camille Perri

The Assistants by Camille Perri 

Published by G.P. Putnam’s Sons

Published on May 2, 2017

Genres: Fiction, Womens Fiction, Contemporary, Adult, Humor, New York

Page Count: 304

Source: Purchased

Format: Kindle

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Description: A wry and astute debut about a young Manhattanite whose embezzlement scam turns her into an unlikely advocate for the leagues of overeducated and underpaid assistants across the city.

Tina Fontana is the hapless but brazen thirty-year-old executive assistant to Robert Barlow, the all-powerful and commanding CEO of Titan Corp., a multinational media conglomerate. She’s excellent at her job and beloved by her famous boss—but after six years of making his reservations for restaurants she’d never get into on her own and pouring his drinks from bottles that cost more than her rent, she’s bored, broke, and just a bit over it all.

When a technical error with Robert’s travel-and-expenses report presents Tina with the opportunity to pay off the entire balance of her student loan debt with what would essentially be pocket change for her boss, she struggles with the decision: She’s always played by the rules. But it’s such a relatively small amount of money for the Titan Corporation—and for her it would be a life-changer . . .

The Assistants speaks directly to a new generation of women who feel stuck and unable to get ahead playing by the rules. It will appeal to all of those who have ever asked themselves, “How is it that after all these years, we are still assistants?”

Hello again.

I found this book when I was looking for "a book with red on the cover" for a game of book bingo and I thought, "Oh! This looks good." I read it in one day. I would have probably read it in one setting if I had not had to be productive. 

I was very impressed with the fact that this is a debut novel. The author created very relatable characters. Some of the situations had me nodding my head in agreement because I related so deeply. The story flowed with ease. There were multiple times where I found myself laughing out loud. 

I am rating this book Four Red Books. It was fun to read. At the time of this review, the author has one more book and I have put it on my TBR. Recommend.

InkedBookDragon

Currently reading: Lord of Shadows by Cassandra Clare

Would Like to Meet by Rachel Winters

Would Like to Meet by Rachel Winters

Published by G.P. Putnam's Sons

Published on December 3rd, 2019

Genres: Romance, Contemporary, Adult, Womens Fiction. Fiction

Page Count: 336

Source: Purchased

Format: Kindle

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Description: In this charming, feel-good debut novel, a cynical assistant at a screenwriting agency must reenact the meet-cute scenes from classic romantic comedy movies in order to help her #1 client get his scriptwriting mojo back--but can a real-life meet-cute be in store for someone who doesn't believe in happily ever after?

After seven years as an assistant, 29-year-old Evie Summers is ready to finally get the promotion she deserves. But now the TV and film agency she's been running behind the scenes is in trouble, and Evie will lose her job unless she can convince the agency's biggest and most arrogant client, Ezra Chester, to finish writing the script for a Hollywood romantic comedy.

The catch? Ezra is suffering from writer's block--and he'll only put pen to paper if singleton Evie can prove to him that you can fall in love like they do in the movies. With the future of the agency in jeopardy, Evie embarks on a mission to meet a man the way Sally met Harry or Hugh Grant met Julia Roberts.

But in the course of testing out the meet-cute scenes from classic romantic comedies IRL, not only will Evie encounter one humiliating situation after another, but she'll have to confront the romantic past that soured her on love. In a novel as hilarious as it is heartwarming, debut author Rachel Winters proves that sometimes real life is better than the movies--and that the best kind of meet-cutes happen when you least expect them.


Hello again.

When I first saw information on this book, I had to read it. I added it to my TBR and preordered it immediately. It looked like something that I would love. It dropped onto my Kindle and I could not wait to read it.

I really enjoyed this book. The characters were relatable and I found myself wanting to know what happened to them. In fact, one character was perfect book boyfriend material. I could have read another book on just him.

I am rating this book Four Red Books because it was a very enjoyable read. There were moments that felt rushed but it was a great book overall. I look forward to seeing what this author does in the future. Definitely recommend.


InkedBookDragon


Currently reading: Lady Midnight by Cassandra Clare and Aurora Rising by Amie Kaufman & Jay Kristoff

Reputation by Sara Shepard

Reputation by Sara Shepard

Published by Dutton

Published on December 3, 2019

Genres: Mystery, Thriller, Fiction

Page Count: 384 

Source: Purchased

Format: Kindle

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Description: In this fast-paced new novel from Sara Shepard, the #1 New York Times bestselling author of Pretty Little Liars, a tight-knit college town scrambles for answers when an e-mail hack reveals life-changing secrets and scandals.

Aldrich University is rocked to its core when a hacker dumps 40,000 people's e-mails—the entire faculty, staff, students, alums—onto an easily searchable database. Rumors and affairs immediately leak, but things turn explosive when Kit Manning's handsome husband, Dr. Greg Strasser, is found murdered. Kit's sister, Willa, returns for the funeral, setting foot in a hometown she fled fifteen years ago, after a night she wishes she could forget. As an investigative reporter, Willa knows something isn't right about the night Greg was killed, and she's determined to find the truth. What she doesn't expect is that everyone has something to hide. And with a killer on the loose, Willa and Kit must figure out who killed Greg before someone else is murdered.

Told from multiple points of view, Reputation is full of twists, turns, and shocking reveals. It's a story of intrigue, sabotage, and the secrets we keep—and how far we go to keep them hidden.


Hello Readers.

I went into this book not knowing what I would encounter. This is the first book by Sara Shepard that I have read so I was not sure what to expect with her writing style. I know that her work has been adapted. I separated this piece in my mind from everything that I had heard about her before. Now that I have given that disclaimer, let's move on to my review.

This book surprised me. I thought that the premise would be interesting but I was pleasantly surprised. The flow felt organic and not strained. The story maintained even with the different view points. That is not an easy feat to pull off. 

The characters were complex yet relatable. We have all encountered people like them. This allowed for the reader to embrace them and want to continue on this journey. I was impressed at how well the author approached character development.

I am rating this book Five Red Books because I was sad that it was over. The ease with which the author transitioned the storyline was fantastic. So many layers and paths that came together beautifully. I find myself wanting to look into Sara Shepard's body of work more. I highly recommend this book.


InkedBookDragon

Kindred Spirits by Rainbow Rowell

Kindred Spirits by Rainbow Rowell

Published by Roadswell Editions

Published on May 2, 2017

Genres: Young Adult, Contemporary, Short Stories, Fiction

Page Count: 41

Source: Purchased

Format: eBook

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Description: When Elena decided to camp out for the next Star Wars movie, she was expecting a celebration, a communion — a line full of people who love Star Wars so much, they have to share it.  

She wasn’t expecting this:  a freezing sidewalk, nowhere to pee, and three nights stuck with a boy who decided not to like her before they even met. 

It’s enough to make a girl leave the line… 

But Elena came here for Star Wars, and it will take more than bad weather and a dumb boy to squash her spirits. 

Hello Readers.

I cannot begin to tell you how much I enjoyed this short story. I related so much to Elena. Her love of Star Wars driving her to step completely out of her comfort zone was relatable and endearing. Love the premise. A beautifully executed story about belonging and not being afraid to march to the beat of your own drum.

I am rating this short story Five Blue Books because it was a truly delightful read. If you have not read any of Rainbow Rowell's work, I suggest you do. Highly recommend!


InkedBookDragon

Mr.Penumbra's 24-Hour Bookstore by Robin Sloan

Mr. Penumbra's 24-Hour Bookstore by Robin Sloan

Published by

Published on

Genres: Fiction, Fantasy, Mystery

Page Count: 288

Source: Purchased

Format: Hardcover

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Description: The Great Recession has shuffled Clay Jannon away from life as a San Francisco web-design drone and into the aisles of Mr. Penumbra's 24-Hour Bookstore, but after a few days on the job, Clay discovers that the store is more curious than either its name or its gnomic owner might suggest. The customers are few, and they never seem to buy anything; instead, they "check out" large, obscure volumes from strange corners of the store. Suspicious, Clay engineers an analysis of the clientele's behavior, seeking help from his variously talented friends, but when they bring their findings to Mr. Penumbra, they discover the bookstore's secrets extend far beyond its walls.

Hello Readers.

I picked up this book one day because it looked like something that I might enjoy. Then life occurred and it became buried in my TBR stacks and I forgot about it. It wasn't until I was researching books for my book group that I remembered it. Then it was offically chosen and it finally got its turn. 

I geniunely enjoyed this book. I found myself picturing the story while reading it and I longed to see this bookstore in real life. The idea of a bookstore containing unusual books that most people have never heard of is exciting to me. It definitely makes me wonder what gems may be hidden in my nearest bookstore.

I am rating this book Four Red Books because it drug in some spots and was predictable. I enjoyed it but I did have a few moments where I felt like I was reading an advertisement rather than a novel. The characters were likeable and relatable. The premise was fantastic and I would love to find a bookstore like the one from the story. This is the first book that I have read by this author and I will be looking into his other titles. Great read!

InkedBookDragon

Becoming Charlie - Part One by Kristie Haigwood

Becoming Charlie: Part One by Kristie Haigwood

Published by Amazon Digital Services LLC

Published on December 3, 2017

Genres: Literature, Fiction, Coming of Age

Page Count: 252

Source: Purchased

Format: eBook

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Description: My name is Charlie, and I'm invisible. Well, not literally, but until one of the most popular guys at Eden High saved my life, nobody even knew I existed. Sean Reese gave me more than my life back that night. He gave me friendship.

And maybe, just maybe, I can save him, too.

Will he still be my friend when he finds out my secret?

Hello.

I wasn't sure what to expect with this one. I had never read anything by this author but I thought that the premise looked promising. Who hasn't felt invisible at some point or another? How big an impact can one friend make on your outlook in life?  Also, I was dying to know what Charlie's secret was. 

We have all been invisible at some point or another. I really related to the main character on that aspect. You can be in a room filled with people and be invisible and lonely. Some of the invisibility may be self imposed while some just happens. I once took a class for an entire semester and I think that maybe two people besides the professor knew that I existed and that was only because of group work. 

This story was extremely well written. From the first page, the reader is transported into Charlie's world and feelings. The invisible girl that doesn't fit in. High school is so full of cliques and this was a great look at how it feels to be on the outside looking in. Add in the insecurities that come with being that age. Immensely relatable.

I am rating this book Five Blue Books because it is just that good. There was no real lag time in the story. It flowed so well that I was upset when it ended and it hit me that I have to wait for more. The character development was very well done and I look forward to seeing how they continue to evolve in the next book. Highly recommend.

InkedBookDragon