Showing posts with label bluebooks. Show all posts
Showing posts with label bluebooks. Show all posts

Thursday, April 9, 2020

Blog Tour - Chasing Melody by Erin Cristofoli


Chasing Melody by Erin Cristofoli
Published by Amazon.com
Published on April 1, 2020
Genre(s): Contemporary Women's Fiction, Romance
Page Count: 184
Source: Enticing Journey Book Promotions
Format: Kindle
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Book Description: Chase Brighton is a dick.

Elle Holloway needs a job that will get her off of her friends couch. When one practically lands in her lap, she is determined to snag it even though the job description is vague. But when she learns that she will be working for the world famous rock star Chase Brighton, her confidence begins to waiver.

Chase might make her heart race, but his attitude sucks. He is cocky and moody. He even accuses her of wanting her fifteen minutes of fame. But he is also a single dad to the most adorable little girl—and he needs Elle to be his nanny.

Heading out on tour, the last thing Chase needs is to be confined on a bus with a woman as sexy as Elle. It’s enough to drive a man insane as his thoughts are filled with fantasies of her instead of the music he should be focused on. To keep her at arm’s length, he gives Elle a hard time at every opportunity.

As their attraction grows, they struggle to keep it professional, but sometimes fate has plans of its own. When the downsides of Chase’s fame pour a cold dose of reality on them, can they find a way to make things work, or will their differences pull them apart?


Hello Readers.

I was sent a copy of this book so I could read it since I was taking part in the blog tour. I had never read anything by the author before but was excited to read this one. I love a romance if it is done well. This one looked promising.

Where do I start? This book delighted me and surprised me. Truly likeable characters. I found myself wanting to know what happened to them. I became invested rather quickly. The story pulled the reader in from page one. Let's be honest, that is not something that always occurs. Some romance novels have a lot of steam by no real intimacy between characters. This one was wonderful. 

I am rating this book Five Blue Books because once I was done reading it, I wanted more. I want to know what happened to the characters after this book ended. I will be looking into the other works of this author. I highly recommend this book!


InkedBookDragon


Sunday, March 22, 2020

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



Saturday, February 1, 2020

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



Thursday, January 30, 2020

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



Wednesday, January 22, 2020

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

Friday, January 3, 2020

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


Monday, March 11, 2019

Dread Nation



Dread Nation by Justina Ireland
Published by Blazer + Bray
Published on April 3, 2018
Genre(s): Fantasy, Historical Fiction, Horror, Young Adult
Page Count: 464
Source: Purchased
Format: Hardcover
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Book Description:

Jane McKeene was born two days before the dead began to walk the battlefields of Gettysburg, Pennsylvania—derailing the War Between the States and changing the nation forever.

In this new America, safety for all depends on the work of a few, and laws like the Native and Negro Education Act require certain children attend combat schools to learn to put down the dead.

But there are also opportunities—and Jane is studying to become an Attendant, trained in both weaponry and etiquette to protect the well-to-do. It's a chance for a better life for Negro girls like Jane. After all, not even being the daughter of a wealthy white Southern woman could save her from society’s expectations.

But that’s not a life Jane wants. Almost finished with her education at Miss Preston's School of Combat in Baltimore, Jane is set on returning to her Kentucky home and doesn’t pay much mind to the politics of the eastern cities, with their talk of returning America to the glory of its days before the dead rose.

But when families around Baltimore County begin to go missing, Jane is caught in the middle of a conspiracy, one that finds her in a desperate fight for her life against some powerful enemies.

And the restless dead, it would seem, are the least of her problems.


Hello Readers.

I had heard about this book long before I read it. I was hesitant because I was not sure how a book of this nature would work. Zombies and the Civil War? What?! Inserting zombies into any real life situation has the potential to just fall apart. I definitely was not sure how one would insert zombies into one of the most intense and important periods in America's history. The room for error was great.
I started this book with some apprehension. Would the author pull it off?

Wow! She did! Beautifully melding the elements together, the author made the story come alive. (Yes, pun intended.) Strong characters. I found myself truly hating some of them and wishing them harm. Other characters warmed my heart and I wanted nothing more than for them to succeed. So many components that could have caused the story to fall apart but they were brought together in such a way that I was blown away.

I am rating this book Five Blue Books because it was such an incredible read. I cannot wait for the sequel! It cannot come out soon enough!  Highly recommend!


InkedBookDragon

Thursday, February 28, 2019

Curses and Crowns (Vampires of Crescent Cape Book 1) by L. Danvers


Curses and Crowns (Vampires of Crescent Cape Book 1) by L. Danvers
Published by Independently published
Published on February 12, 2019
Genre(s): Fantasy, Paranormal
Page Count: 210
Source: Purchased
Format: eBook
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Book Description:
A cut-throat competition.

A romance to die for.

Danielle Parker’s life was a dream. Until it became a living nightmare.

Ripped of her memories of how she was kidnapped from her family, Danielle is whisked away to the mystical Crescent Cape—a kingdom ruled by vampires, where she is to live out her human life as a blood slave.

She’s not going down without a fight.

But her plans are thwarted when she’s selected to compete for the prince’s heart.

The winner will be turned into a vampire and taken as his bride. And the losers’ blood will be fed to the princess-to-be to complete her transition.

As much as she’s disgusted by the idea of the competition, and as dangerous as Prince Aiden is, she can’t deny her attraction to him—or to his troubled brother, Julian.

Will she be able to resist the brothers’ charms? Or will she find herself pulled into the dangerous world of the vampires of Crescent Cape?

A romantic and thrilling new series that will keep you on the edge of your seat. Perfect for fans of The Vampire Diaries, The Originals and The Selection.


Hello Readers.

I read books all across the genre gamut but a part of me always freaks out a little over fantasy, especially paranormal books. Vampires. Werewolves. Magic. Ghosts. Zombies.Witches. Give me! I am all over them. I cannot get enough. Yes please!

When I read the blurb for this one, I had to read it. It felt like something that I could really sink my teeth into. (Pun intended). I had gotten the opportunity to read the prequel short story (Blood Heirs)* last year and I found myself needing to know what happened. My mind would wander into this world at the most random times. I was hooked and needed to continue on this adventure.

Not so patiently, I waited. Days turned into weeks. Weeks turned into months. Finally the announcement came and I was delighted.

Publication day! Yes! I dove into the book. I took my time with this one, not wanting to miss a single detail. I escaped back into the world of Crescent Cape and I welcomed it. Rich descriptions. Intriguing concept. Relatable characters. Complex storyline. I finished it and just sat back for a few minutes. An afterglow of sorts.

I am rating this book Five Blue Books because it was such an enjoyable read. As I write this, I cannot help but think about how I cannot wait to read what happens next. L. Danvers definitely has my attention and I look forward to reading more. Highly recommend.

InkedBookDragon


* You can find Blood Heirs here.

Sunday, April 8, 2018

One of Us Is Lying by Karen M. McManus


One of Us Is Lying By Karen M. McManus
Published by Delacorte Press
Published on May 30, 2017
Genres: Mysteries, Thrillers, YA
Page Count: 368
Source: Purchased
Format: Hardback
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Description: Pay close attention and you might solve this.
On Monday afternoon, five students at Bayview High walk into detention.
      Bronwyn, the brain, is Yale-bound and never breaks a rule. 
      Addy, the beauty, is the picture-perfect homecoming princess. 
      Nate, the criminal, is already on probation for dealing.
      Cooper, the athlete, is the all-star baseball pitcher.
      And Simon, the outcast, is the creator of Bayview High’s notorious gossip app.

Only, Simon never makes it out of that classroom. Before the end of detention Simon's dead. And according to investigators, his death wasn’t an accident. On Monday, he died. But on Tuesday, he’d planned to post juicy reveals about all four of his high-profile classmates, which makes all four of them suspects in his murder. Or are they the perfect patsies for a killer who’s still on the loose? 

Everyone has secrets, right? What really matters is how far you would go to protect them.


Hello Readers.

I ordered a copy of this book after it was recommended to me. I thought that I would give it a chance. It looked like it had promise. I could not stop reading this book! I had to stop because life but I thought about it while I was not reading it. Kept me on my toes. Found myself trying to guess the ending. Some mysteries have a way of exposing their secrets early on. This book was full of little breadcrumbs to lead us through the story but did not give too much away. 

I am rating this book Five Blue Books because it was a geniunely great read. Strong story, likeable characters, relatable, and surprising. It is one that I will be reading again. Will be looking into other works by this author. I strongly recommend it.

InkedBookDragon





Monday, January 15, 2018

Meet Cute by Jennifer L. Armentrout (plus thirteen others)


Meet Cute by Jennifer L. Armentrout (+13 more)
Published by HMH Books for Young Readers
Published on January 2, 2018
Genres: Short Stories, YA, Romance
Page Count:320
Source: Purchased
Format: Hardback
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Description: Whether or not you believe in fate, or luck, or love at first sight, every romance has to start somewhere. MEET CUTE is an anthology of original short stories featuring tales of “how they first met” from some of today’s most popular YA authors.

Readers will experience Nina LaCour’s beautifully written piece about two Bay Area girls meeting via a cranky customer service Tweet, Sara Shepard’s glossy tale about a magazine intern and a young rock star, Nicola Yoon’s imaginative take on break-ups and make-ups, Katie Cotugno’s story of two teens hiding out from the police at a house party, and Huntley Fitzpatrick’s charming love story that begins over iced teas at a diner. There’s futuristic flirting from Kass Morgan and Katharine McGee, a riveting transgender heroine from Meredith Russo, a subway missed connection moment from Jocelyn Davies, and a girl determined to get out of her small town from Ibi Zoboi. Jennifer Armentrout writes a sweet story about finding love from a missing library book, Emery Lord has a heartwarming and funny tale of two girls stuck in an airport, Dhonielle Clayton takes a thoughtful, speculate approach to pre-destined love, and Julie Murphy dreams up a fun twist on reality dating show contestants.

This incredibly talented group of authors brings us a collection of stories that are at turns romantic and witty, epic and everyday, heartbreaking and real.


Hello.

I am a sucker for short stories. I love them. I love how you can sit down and read the entire story in one setting with no real issues. I love that they are often tied up all nice and neatly at the end so I get that closure that I secretly long for. Don't get me wrong. I do enjoy the long novel that draws you in and forces you to live completely out of your world for an extended amount of time but short stories are fantastic. 

I was excited about this book. I have read novels by many of the contributors and I was very hopeful. They did not disappoint. Such a fun read. Some of them draw you deeply in while others just let you watch from a distance.

I am rating this book Five Blue Books because it has a little bit of everything. A wonderful collection. I highly recommend it. 

InkedBookDragon




Wednesday, January 3, 2018

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

Friday, December 8, 2017

Dawning Ascent (The Pearson Prophecy) by Jen L. Grey


Dawning Ascent (The Pearson Prophecy Book 1) by Jen L. Grey
Published by Amazon Digital Services LLC
Published on December 7, 2017
Genres: Fantasy, Science Fiction
Page Count: 262
Source: Purchased
Format: eBook
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Description: Power comes with a price. 

Treated like an outcast in her own kingdom, Ariah learned to live in the shadows. But as she comes into her powers, she catches the eye of her life long crush and an unlikely ally. Trusting either of them could help her along a dangerous journey... or could bring her journey to a dangerous end.

When enemies come to light and distrust spreads, Ariah's safety is put in jeopardy. If she places her trust in the wrong people, her hidden powers will be unveiled to those who wish to use them against her.

To survive, Ariah must learn who has her best interests at heart. If she chooses wrong, it could mean not only her own death, but the crumbling of the entire country.

Game of Thrones meets Practical Magic in DAWNING ASCENT, a coming of age fantasy read for adults and young adults alike!


Hello Readers.

Dawning Ascent was one of those books that I had trouble putting down. I love a good fantasy that transports me to another place. It started off strongly. The author set up the story so well that it flowed beautifully. It was well written and I was greatly impressed by the character development. This did not feel like a debut novel.

I find myself wanting to write a lot more but I would end up giving away important details and I hate spoilers. I have the story playing out in my head and I want to share everything. However, I won't but I will say that this book left me longing for more. I was drawn in deeply and cannot wait to see where the story will take us.

I am rating this book Five Blue Books because it was a phenomenal book. I am still in amazement that it was a debut novel. The only true downside that I found is that I was left with a cliffhanger and am a bit frustrated that I have to wait to see what happens. Highly recommend.


InkedBookDragon

Thursday, December 7, 2017

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






Saturday, December 2, 2017

The Redemption Wall by Marcus Miller


The Redemption Wall by Marcus Miller
Published by Independently Published
Published on October 7, 2017
Genres: Action & Adventure, Western, Thriller & Suspense
Page Count: 353
Source: Author
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Description: An epic action novel of adventure and personal discovery through the eyes of a young man fleeing from a rich and powerful family. Luke Canfield is born into a ranching dynasty but is subjected to horrible abuse by his fanatically religious father. The redemption wall is the place where Luke’s father inflicts corporal punishment on him, almost daily, and Luke endures it for years until the only person left to defend and protect him, his grandmother, suddenly dies. Finding the courage to escape his persecution, he is offered a way out, but must travel alone, quickly maturing as he gains experience along the way, across the U.S. from Oregon to Florida, in an attempt to meet up with a family offering him protection on a sailing vessel in the Caribbean, but he must arrive before the family sails away. His odyssey is a tale of fear, hunger, abuse, adventure and courage through the eyes of a quickly maturing young man. Set in 1967, in a world experiencing drugs, free love, and racial tension and in a time when the words, child abuse weren’t spoken out loud.


Hello Readers.

This book practically fell into my lap. I wasn't looking for it. I wasn't trying to find it. It found me. It did not feel like I was reading a story but rather being told a story in person. From the very beginning, I was pulled into the life of the main character. He was extremely relatable and my heart went out to him. It was interesting to see how the characters evolved as the story progressed.

This book was captivating and very well written. It was so raw. So pure. It was so real at times that I was overcome with emotion. There were moments that I wanted to reach inside and hug the main character. Not many books cause those emotions in me.

I am rating this book Five Blue Books because it was devastatingly beautiful in a way that changes the reader forever. I look forward to reading future books by this author. He is definitely one to watch.

InkedBookDragon


Thursday, November 30, 2017

NeverSea (Echoes of the Lost, #1) by Jenetta Penner & David R. Bernstein


NeverSea (Echoes of the Lost, #1) by Jenetta Penner and David R. Bernstein
Published by Torment Publishing
Published on October 28, 2017
Genres: Teen, YA, Action &Adventure, Sci Fi, Romance
Page Count: 303
Source: Publisher
Format: Ebook
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Description:
Would you risk everything for your happily ever after?

Arya thrives under the limitless blue waters of the NeverSea while Peter soars in the clouds high above—both perfectly designed for this harsh new world.

Stolen from their families, Arya and Peter were experimented on as young kids. Pushed to their breaking points, they escaped, but at a heavy price—Peter abandoned Arya when she needed him the most.

Years later, on a routine patrol, Arya comes face to face with Peter. A chance encounter with Arya's lost love, James, opens the door for Peter, the ousted leader of the Lost Boys, to regain Neverland—a floating settlement now controlled by the heartless witch who took them as kids.

Arya fights to protect the NeverSea while Peter only looks out for himself. Forced together once more, Arya must decide if she can trust him with so many lives at stake.

The Little Mermaid meets Peter Pan in this science fiction retelling of two beloved classics. Readers who enjoyed The Lunar Chronicles will love this epic, young adult series.


Hello Again!

I was hesitant with this book. I was not sure if the combination of the two worlds would work. Combining two dearly loved childhood worlds was a great risk. If executed properly, you have an amazing new look. If done improperly, you leave the readers with a deep sense of disappointment. It is very tricky. Not only did it work but it blended so perfectly that I was left in awe. 

The beginning grabbed my attention. From the first page, I was transported into this amazing story. Beautifully written and captivating. The character development was astounding. Just the right combination of action and romance. It was so much fun picking out original story components. I was filled with a sense of nostalgia.

Thank you to the publisher for giving me a digital copy in exchange for an honest review. I am rating this book Five Blue Books because it had me from the moment I started. Such a great read! Also, the cover is superb. I cannot wait to read the rest of the series. They cannot get into my possession quick enough! I am highly recommending this!


InkedBookDragon

Monday, November 27, 2017

Michael's Passion (A Series of Angels Book 1) by Joel Crofoot


Michael's Passion (A Series of Angels Book 1) by Joel Crofoot
Published by Amazon Digital Services LLC
Published on September 7, 2016
Genres: Romance, Fantasy, Science Fiction
Page Count: 183
Source: Author
Format: eBook
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Description: When the archangel Michael is forced to rely on his estranged brother Gabriel for help after a demon attack goes wrong, Gabriel places him before the throne of God for healing. The father is displeased about some of Michael's behavior as of late and casts them both out of heaven until they pay their penance.

Jahi is a demonic seductress who uses sex to steal people's souls. It’s not exactly her dream job, but it keeps her boss at bay, until a chance meeting with Michael changes her fate forever.


Hello.

Where do I start with this one? I don't normally read romances of this nature. The truth is that I tend to steer clear of  books when there are shirtless men on the cover. For years, I couldn't take them seriously. I recently opened up to the possibility of books like that being more than what I previously thought. I am very happy that I have. That being said, I didn't even really take note of the cover of this book until I was almost four chapters in. By then I was hooked. 

This book is definitely one that I am happy that I was open to reading. It was fast paced and kept me on the edge of my seat. I had trouble putting it down. It took my idea of angels and altered it greatly. It was interesting reading the author's viewpoint. 

Thank you to the author for a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. am rating this book Five Blue Books because it was truly a delight to read. A true struggle between Good and Evil story. I am interested in reading the other books in this series. 


InkedBookDragon


Tuesday, November 21, 2017

Yesterday by Samyann


Yesterday by Samyann
Published by Samyann
Published on Jan 12, 2014
Genres: Romance, Science Fiction, Fantasy
Page Count: 406
Source: Publisher
Format: eBook
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Description: A tender love story pulls the reader back to previous lives and a time richly elegant. In modern day Chicago, deja vu draws together a handsome mounted policeman and the beautiful young woman who saves his life. Yesterday is also a harrowing tale of escape through the American Civil War, the heart wrenching love of slaves for their young white charges, and The Great Chicago Fire of 1871. In this historical romance, Mark fights through Amanda's rejection to prove that she will love again as she once loved - Yesterday.


Hello.

This book really hit close to home with me. I have been places that I would swear that I had been to before. There is nothing like stepping into a place and you know that you have never been to but yet you truly feel like you have been there. I have encountered people that I felt that I knew but had never met them before. That feeling is really something. Call it deja vu. Call it a strange coincidence. It is very much there and I am sure most people have experienced it at one time or another. 

The author has the ability to paint a picture so well that you feel like you are there. You feel the breeze blow. You hear the traffic. That ability is a true skill. Many people claim to have it but very few people actually do. The characters were so likable that I found myself wanting to know them in real life. 

Time and locations. What a gorgeous use of time and the area around them to help tell the story. Not everyone can write a time travel/reincarnation novel successfully. This book was truly remarkable in that regard. I felt like I was in modern day Chicago. I felt that I was on the battle field. The reader is transported to these locations with such elegance. 

Thank you to the publisher for a digital copy in exchange for an honest review. I am rating this book Five Blue Books because it flowed well and kept my attention. The author has a beautiful way with words. I have already started recommending this book and will continue to do so. It was a delight to read. 


InkedBookDragon



Saturday, November 18, 2017

Love on the Rocks: Summer in Whitehorse Bay by Emily Anne Brandon


Love on the Rocks: Summer in Whitehorse Bay by Emily Anne Brandon
Published by Amazon Digital Services LLC
Published on June 1, 2017
Genres: Fiction, Romance, Holidays
Page Count: 396
Source: Author
Format: eBook
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Description: What happens when a Hollywood star unexpectedly rocks up in a sleepy seaside village in Scotland?

Fiery redhead Lexy was left shocked and guilt-ridden by the tragic death of her parents seven years ago. Seven years later she is still struggling to move on, and her only steady relationship is with her one true love – Brian, the border collie.

Clay Gable is weary of the demands of fame and has fled from the Hollywood hills to the tiny Scottish village of Whitehorse Bay – a delightful place he remembers from a wonderful childhood summer many moons ago.

When their paths cross, Lexy helps Clay blend in to village life, while Clay encourages Lexy to leave her unfulfilling job and chase her dream of becoming a bona fide artist.

Meanwhile, Lexy’s ex, Jamie, is acting strangely and appears to have a secret from everyone.

Can Lexy help Jamie deal with his dark secret? And is charismatic Clay Gable the one to bring Lexy’s defenses crashing down?


Hello.

I went into this book not sure what I was going to find. Tragedy hits on the first page and it was a fantastic introduction. Unlike so many romances that tend to be all sunshine and birds singing, this one has a true backbone and is a very rich story. I was captivated from the start.

This is the first of the author's books that I have encountered and so I really did not know what her writing style was. I was delighted to say the least. On point character development. From the moment that Lexy was directly introduced, I knew that I would like her. The supporting characters are endearing and I could see people I know or have encountered in them.

Scotland. I don't come across many books set in Scotland so this was a treat. It was a wonderful backdrop to the story and became a character in its own right. I found myself daydreaming at times. I think that a trip to Scotland may have now worked its way onto my bucket list.

Every once in a while I come across a book that can be read multiple times. This is one of those books now on that list. It was a delightful read. I was so immersed in it that I was sad in a way that it was over. I am definitely intrigued as to the future progression of the characters.

Thank you to the author for an advance copy in exchange for an honest review. I am rating this book Five Blue Books because it made me want more. I finished it and automatically looked into other books that the author has written. I highly recommend it.


InkedBookDragon




Friday, November 17, 2017

Ready Player One by Ernest Cline


Ready Player One: A Novel by Ernest Cline
Published by Broadway Books
Published on August 16, 2011
Genre: Hard Science Fiction, Utopian and dystopian fiction
Page Count: 372
Source: Purchased
Format: Paperback
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Description: In the year 2045, reality is an ugly place. The only time teenage Wade Watts really feels alive is when he's jacked into the virtual utopia known as the OASIS. Wade's devoted his life to studying the puzzles hidden within this world's digital confines—puzzles that are based on their creator's obsession with the pop culture of decades past and that promise massive power and fortune to whoever can unlock them.

But when Wade stumbles upon the first clue, he finds himself beset by players willing to kill to take this ultimate prize. The race is on, and if Wade's going to survive, he'll have to win—and confront the real world he's always been so desperate to escape.


Hello Readers.

Some books come with so much hype that I tend to stay as far away from them as I possibly can. This one kept being brought back into my life. It ended up being a monthly read for a book group that I am in so I bought it. It was as though the stars had finally aligned to lead me to reading this book.

People kept recommending it but I did not expect to like it. To be honest, I didn't really want to like it. So much hype. The fact that it is being made into a movie just fueled the fire. I sat down with a hot tea to my left and thought, "Let's get through this. It can't possibly be that good."

Before I knew it, I owned it in multiple formats. I could not get enough of it. I related to the characters. I loved the premise. It made me think of all those video games that I played when younger. So many pop culture references. I got most of the references and would chuckle some when I remembered the past. So much nostalgia.

Not only did I like this book but I have already bought the other book by this author. I am rating this book Five Blue Books because I honestly cannot find fault in it. I loved how it took me back. I loved how it made me want to play all the old video games again. It was written by a true fanboy and you can feel it. I honestly am in shock at how much I loved this book. I will be highly likely to recommend it to possibly every person I meet.


InkedBookDragon


Wednesday, November 15, 2017

City of Bones (The Mortal Instruments) by Cassandra Clare


City of Bones (The Mortal Instruments #1) by Cassandra Clare
Published by Margaret K. McElderry Books
Published on March 27, 2007
Genres: YA Fiction, Horror Fiction, Dark Fantasy Fiction, Paranormal
Page Count: 496
Source: Purchased
Format: Hardback
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Description: When fifteen-year-old Clary Fray heads out to the Pandemonium Club in New York City, she hardly expects to witness a murder― much less a murder committed by three teenagers covered with strange tattoos and brandishing bizarre weapons. Then the body disappears into thin air. It's hard to call the police when the murderers are invisible to everyone else and when there is nothing―not even a smear of blood―to show that a boy has died. Or was he a boy?

This is Clary's first meeting with the Shadowhunters, warriors dedicated to ridding the earth of demons. It's also her first encounter with Jace, a Shadowhunter who looks a little like an angel and acts a lot like a jerk. Within twenty-four hours Clary is pulled into Jace's world with a vengeance, when her mother disappears and Clary herself is attacked by a demon. But why would demons be interested in ordinary mundanes like Clary and her mother? And how did Clary suddenly get the Sight? The Shadowhunters would like to know...

Exotic and gritty, exhilarating and utterly gripping, Cassandra Clare's ferociously entertaining fantasy takes readers on a wild ride that they will never want to end.


Hello.

I realize that I am entering this world way later than most. I don't know how I managed to avoid this book for so long. A close friend of mine finally called me out on it and told me that I had to read it. I took her advice and bought a copy as soon as I could.

I could not read this book fast enough. It is full of these amazing characters and other worlds that most people would never believe existed. How would you respond if you saw something and you would swear that either your eyes were tricking you or you had just witnessed a heinous crime?  Worlds collide and you have no idea as to what may happen.

I cannot even begin to tell you how fantastic this book was. I found myself saddened when I closed that cover. Then I had that moment of bliss that one has when they read a book so good that they know they are going to live in that world for a while. Thankfully, I did not have to wait too long to read the next volume.

I am rating this book Five Blue Books because it was a wonderful way to start a series. It is proof that some people can know you so well that they can pick out the perfect book for you. I recommend it to anyone that will listen.


InkedBookDragon