Fire In Frost by Alcia Rades
Genre: Young Adult, Paranormal
Status: First Installment
Rating: 3.5 Stars

Book Summary (Goodreads):

Crystal Frost has spent her whole life believing she’s ordinary, and her mother has long held the secret of her heritage. When Crystal begins seeing the ghost of a dead classmate, her life spirals out of control. She’s faced with the threat that everyone will find out she’s a freak, as if the struggle to figure out her new-found abilities wasn’t enough pressure. Crystal has to find some way to save the people who have come to her for help all while trying to keep her abilities a secret. Will she be able to fulfill these overwhelming demands while solving the mystery that is the ghost of Olivia Owen?

My Review:

Fire In Frost is a story about a girl named Crystal Frost that learns that she and her mom have psychic abilities. She begins to see the ghost of one of her classmates and realizes she can use her abilities to try and help the ghost. As she uncovers her abilities she’s confronted by a person that desperately needs her help to save someones life. Crystal Frost is a fierce, noble character that learns to trust her friends, helps those in need, and discovers herself.

Alicia Rades created a wonderful story that is very well written. The plot had substance to it, and you can clearly see the author had a story to tell. But I thought there could have been a little more mystery and a little more character development. I think the characters could have benefited with a character ARC.  Still they had qualities I quite enjoyed from them, and moments of camaraderie that still made the story a likable read. I adored her friend Emma and would loved to have gotten to know her better. Emma is as best of friends as they come and she’s completely 100% loyal to Crystal.I loved the relationship between Crystal and her friend Derek, but I thought there could have been more of a love story there. There’s subtle hints, but I think a love story would have really added a little more to the plot and make the story more interesting and exciting! The story was a little slow to pick up, but once it picked up it definitely caught my interest and was hard to put down. The book itself is quick read, but it does contain a conflict that deals with abuse and may be sensitive to others.

I think there’s a great message delivered in this book. I’m always a fan of stories that have some deeper meaning to them. In this story I feel like the meaning behind it is to trust our friends, to believe in ourselves and others. That together, with those you love, you can conquer even the hardest of obstacles.

Overall I think Fire In Frost was well done and I look forward to reading further  books by Alicia Rades.

Buy Links:

Amazon

About the Author

Alicia Rades has always had a passion for writing and wrote her first poem when she was 8. Although most of her writing continued as poetry and eventually as song writing, she wrote a few short stories along the way. In 2010, Alicia began freelance writing, creating blog posts and other online content. Today, she is a freelance writer, blogger, and editor who lives in Wisconsin with her husband. When inspiration strikes, she’s also an author. Visit her author website at aliciaradesauthor.com.

Author Links:

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Salt and Stone by Victoria Scott
Publication Date: February 24, 2015
Publisher:  Scholastic Press
Genre: Young Adult, Dystopian, Fantasy
Status: Second installment of the Fired and Flood series.
Rating: 5 Stars

Book Summary (Goodreads): 

What would you do to save someone you love?

In Fire & Flood, Tella Holloway faced a dangerous trek through the jungle and across the desert, all to remain a Contender in the Brimstone Bleed for a chance at obtaining the Cure for her brother. She can’t quit–she has to win the race, save Cody, and then fight to make sure the race stops before it can claim any more lives. In the next legs of the race, across the ocean and over mountains, Tella will face frostbite, sharks, avalanche, and twisted new rules in the race.

But what if the danger is deeper than that? How do you know who to trust when everyone’s keeping secrets? What do you do when the person you’d relied on most suddenly isn’t there for support? How do you weigh one life against another?

The race is coming to an end, and Tella is running out of time, resources, and strength. At the start of the race there were one hundred twenty-two Contenders. As Tella and her remaining friends start the final part of the race, just forty-one are left–and only one can win.

My Review:

Salt and Stone by Victoria Scott was purely amazing. It’s action packed right from the start! There’s so many twists and turns in this race, and you aren’t sure who’s going to back stab who and who’s going to come out on top.  I have to be honest there are moments that just wrenched my heart in this book, but I won’t tell you what it is because I don’t want to give away any spoilers. I love the Pandora’s in this book. Tella really seems to connect with these genetic animals, and they in return seem to adore her. I love Maddox in this book. He is fierce and loyal to Tella.

Tella:

I loved Tella’s character growth in this book. In Fire and Flood we see Tella as a little timid and uncertain. She follows Guy around because she knows he’s her best bet for survival. But in Salt and Stone Tella grows into a leader, that stands up for herself and isn’t afraid to take charge or to voice her opinions. This seems to really surprise Guy at first whom always feels like he needs to protect Tella on some level. But Tella doesn’t want nor needs to be protected and we really see her shine in Salt and Stone. I’ve read some reviews where other readers think Tella is rude by this action, but I think with everything going on in Tella’s life, going from her world before The Brimstone Bleed to this race of death, betrayal, and survival, that Tella NEEDS to be more than what she was. And she wants Guy to see her for who she’s becoming, not for the scared, timid girl she was when she first started that race. She’s stronger, fiercer, braver, and it takes him awhile to truly see the new Tella, and to love her all over again and even more for who she’s become. Because she’s no longer quiet and timid and scared, she’s his equal. And together they make a valuable team.

Guy:

I was a little annoyed with Guy at times in this book. But I love how Tella handles it. Most girls in the YA genre usually get upset or heartbroken when a guy ignores them and they tend to crumble, but not Tella. She pretty much tells him to figure it out and until then, well lets finish this race. And though Guy annoyed me for ignoring Tella, I understand why he does it. He had a plan for this race, and sharing his plan with her changed things. And the plan no longer was his, but theirs, and they needed to learn to work together on it. Guy needed to learn to trust and lean on others, and it takes him awhile, but in the end it makes their team and their mission more indestructible. Guy is quiet and brooding, but even so he allows Tella the chances to lead even though it was probably very hard for him, but in the end I think it made him a better person.

The Love Story:

Salt and Stone takes us through the last two ecosystems of the Brimstone Bleed: the ocean and the snowy mountains. The stakes are high and everyone is trying to save someone they love. There’s so much to uncover in this book. There’s murder, lies, non-stop action, spies, and a growing love. I really enjoyed how Victoria Scott handled the love story in this book. Often time authors like to do something to our two main characters that obviously love each other and are end game. Sometimes authors do things to our characters that I terribly dislike, but not Victoria Scott. I will be honest there isn’t alot of “romance” in Salt and Stone as compared to Fire and Flood, but it was beautifully done. Plus there’s so much MORE going on that honestly it wasn’t about their love, it was about surviving and Tella becoming a wonderful leader. It’s also about Guy accepting Tella for who she is and loving her more for it. I think what Victoria Scott did was make them a power couple, a formidable team, a reason to reckon with. What I love about Tella and Guy is that they make each other be the best parts of them. And isn’t that what love should be? To take those good parts of us and make us better?

New and Gone Characters:

Salt and Stone gained some new characters, but also lost others. There was one character in particular I didn’t expect to be killed off, and it was a side character that I rather liked. It was pretty heart wrenching to read. As for a new character that I won’t name just to keep you guessing at it, it will be interesting to see how they play out since they are so complex to the story. And honestly I’m not sure if they are good or bad, and it’s driving me crazy because I so desperately want to know!

The Plot:

The plot was very well played out. I did feel like the story moved through the ocean ecosystem rather quickly as compared to the mountain ecosystem. But again, the story was action packed with lots of character growth, so it didn’t bother me too much that the ocean seemed shorter than the mountain. I thought the action was plenty, there was SO much going on. I binged read this book in a day it was so hard to put down. I had to know what happened to Tella and her friends. I had to know how it played out. I had to know who was bad and who was good. I had to know if Tella saved her brother. Each chapter almost seemed to leave on just enough to make you want to read the next chapter. And let me just say what happens with the Pandora’s I was DEFINITELY not expecting, that alone made me want to keep reading. And it didn’t disappointment! But talk about making my heart ache and wrench and being torn this way and that in all sorts of crazy directions. If an author can do that, than it’s surely a darn good book!

In my opinion Salt and Stone was BETTER than Fire and Flood.  But be prepared to have your heart ache at some point in this book because there’s a lot of death, and only one person makes it out on top and there’s so many characters to love and to want win even as much as we want Tella or Guy to win.

I can’t wait to see what happens in the third installment.

What I didn’t like about the book:

Besides moving through the ocean ecosystem rather quickly (which honestly wasn’t a big deal), nothing. I LOVED this book!

What I liked about the book:

I loved how the author can literally get my heart pounding because of all the twists and turns and what these characters have to do to survive. It’s an epic story, clear until the very end. And I love the Pandora’s. There’s so much to love about them, and they are even better in this story.

Book Quotes:

Quote 1:

If I’m being honest with myself, it’s something I’ve thought a lot about over the last few days, especially since he rescued me from Titus and the Triggers. How would I fare without Guy around? Would I still have a chance at winning, at surviving? I’m not sure why what he said struck me so hard.

Actually, yes, I am.

It’s because it’s the truth.

Quote 2:

“You surprise me.”

I stop paddling. “Are you saying you might have underestimated me?”

“The others respect you. They listen to you, more and more. And not for the same reason they listen to me.”

I feel as if Guy is telling me something, but Braun is rolling over, mumbling, and it won’t be long before everyone is awake. I decide to be direct. “Say what it is you want ot say to me.”

Guy swallows and then flinches as if what he’s about to admit pains him.

“You’re the most amazing person I’ve ever met.”

Original Inspired Song:

For You

GIVEAWAY:

Two lucky winners will receive a signed hardback copy of Salt and Stone! I was able to snag these beauties at the North Teen Book Festival in Irving, TX. Select on the link below and enter the rafflecopter to win!

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About the Author:

Victoria lives in Dallas with her husband and hearts cotton candy something fierce.

Author Links:
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The Ghost of You
By Amanda Burckhard
Publication Date: February 24, 2015
Publisher: Swoon Romance
Genre: Young Adult, New Age
Rating:  4 Stars

Book Summary (Goodreads):

Emmy has everything she’s ever wanted: a hot boyfriend she adores, great friends, a promising future, and even a well-connected family. But one night rips it all away.

A car accident shatters her world, claiming the lives of her twin brother and her best friend. In the wake of the accident, her friends drift away, her family falls apart, and her boyfriend cheats.

The grief is more than she can handle, so she finds escape at the bottom of a bottle of painkillers. Taking the pills makes her brother alive again, if only in her head. Seeing and talking to her brother as if he were still alive is the only thing that keeps her going. Until Logan King moves to town.

Logan sees past the mask of pristine popularity she wears in public and he’s the only one who can tell she hasn’t moved on. His uncanny ability to read her forces her to open up and she starts to fall for him, no matter how unwilling she is to admit it. But Emmy isn’t the only one keeping secrets and when a close brush with death sparks events that bring everything to light, Emmy will have to decide what’s more important: learning how to forgive and move on, or holding onto the pills and the ghost of her past.

“A lovely, haunting, captivating tale from the first page to the last. It grips your heart and keeps it until the very end.” – Natalie Decker

My Review:

This book was incredible. It’s the story of loss, pain, darkness, love, and personal discovery. Emmy is a popular teen that enjoys parties and her boyfriend Zane. Emmy is close to her brother and their close group of friends. This group of friends is practically inseparable. One night after a party her brother Derek dies in a car accident. Emmy struggles through the loss and eventually ends up taking painkillers. A year later Emmy has broken up with Zane, drifted from many of her friends, rarely talks with her parents, and still struggles with taking pills since by taking them she sees her brother and strives to keep him alive as much as she can. Throughout the book we see Emmy fall deeper and deeper into that darkness. She meets Logan, and Logan is wonderful. Logan sees through the mask Emmy wears and tries to get through to her.  Logan does everything he can to help her and have her open up to him. There story is pure and real. But is it enough to really save her?

I really enjoyed Logan’s character. He too has his own secrets, though dark that they may be, he has conquered his past demons and has the ability to relate to Emmy and tries to persuade her to be better. But the truth is that Logan doesn’t really understand what taking the pills does for Emmy, and she cannot let go of her brother, it’s too painful for her. I loved Logan because he didn’t run “hot” and “cold” like a lot of love interests in love stories. At times he does seem distant, and he does go through periods of not really talking to her, but I don’t feel like he’s the traditional “hot” and “cold” guy. And when he explains his reasoning’s why it makes complete and total sense. There’s so much more going on with Logan than meets the eye, and it’s neat to see a character that he too has once fallen, but now strives to be a better person.  At first when he realizes what’s going on with Emmy, I was surprised with his mood towards her. He get’s really angry with her and basically tells her to choose between him or the pills. I was angry with him for placing that demand on her, and I was ready to be angry with Emmy if she decided to choose him because he gave her an ultimatum. But in the end it all works out for the best, and even with Logan’s ultimatum, he’s hard not to love.

Zane was a complete douche from the beginning and I’m so happy that this book wasn’t your typical love triangle story. Sure we have Zane pining over Emmy and wanting the girl she used to be, but Emmy wants nothing to do with Zane thank goodness! I think though he was great to have in the story because deep down I think Zane partially blames himself and I think Emmy had to learn to forgive him and forgive herself too.

I loved being able to get to know her brother Derek even though it was just a hallucination of Derek. Derek is adorable and sweet, and gives a little comic relief to Emmy’s life. You can see how close Emmy and Derek are and how much Derek, even though its Emmy’s vision of him, loved Emmy and was there for her constantly.

I loved Emmy. She struggles throughout most of the book, but we really get to see how hurt she is and how much she aches for her brother. The author does a fabulous job telling Emmy’s story. My heart broke for Emmy on more than one occasion, and when Emmy finally breaks through the darkness it was hard not to let the tears fall.

What I didn’t like about the book:

Honestly there wasn’t anything I disliked about the book. This is a genre I don’t normally read but that I surprisingly enjoyed.

What I liked about the book:

I loved the message behind the book. There’s a point in the story where Logan tells Emmy that she has to choose between him or taking the pills. I’m so happy she doesn’t choose him. Because in real life when given choices like that we aren’t doing it for ourselves and that’s the real problem. Emmy has to make the better choice for her and her alone. And I love that in the end she does what she feels is best for her to help her let go of her brother and to get the help she needs. And she does it for herself, which is so powerful.

This book was wonderful! I typically read stories that aren’t really based on real life events. But surprisingly when I read this one I enjoyed it. It’s a beautiful love story, not just for Emmy and Logan, but also for Emmy to love herself and to help herself. What power this story gives! I think a lot of troubled youth could really benefit from reading a story like this!  I really look forward to reading future books written by Amanda Burckhard!

Recommended Audience:

Young adults, and individuals looking for a good romance and a story that deals with real life situations.

Book Quotes:

Book quote 1:

He cleared his throat. “So, what were you doing lying int he middle of your lawn?”

Fell out of the tree.” Oh, God. Did I just say that? Why didn’t I lie?

He smirked as if he thought I was joking. “You fell out of your tree? Why were you in a tree?”

“I was… uh… trying to rescue a cat?” Oh sure, now I lied.

“that sounds like a question.”

I swallowed hard, my mouth full of sandy regret. “Did it?”

“So where’s the cat?”

It ran off. Then I fell.” What the hell was my problem? I was a genius liar. The best. All I could manage was crappy lies and word vomit whenever Logan was around. It was like his presence turned off any filter any voice that said “think before you speak.”

Book quote 2:

Tears of frustration carved valleys into my cheeks from my eyelashes to my chin. What was I going to do without Derek? He wasn’t even gone more than a few hours and I already blew up at Dad. He couldn’t leave me. He said he’d always be here. He promised.

“Emmy?” a voice said behind me.

My heart soared for the split second it took me to turn and find that it wasn’t who I’d been waiting for. It was Logan. My heart stopped its fight, turned to glass, and plummeted down a flight of stairs. Seeing Logan at that moment, when I felt nothing but vulnerable and alone, made everything so much worse. My tears turned into sobs.

About the Author:

 Amanda Burckhard grew up exploring bat caves and hunting for dinosaur bones in the Black Hills of South Dakota. When she wasn’t crossing paths with mountain lions, she was making up stories and devouring books at the library. Although, she still does that.

Amanda loves to travel and cross out things on her adrenaline packed bucket list. Some of the things she’s been able to cross out include see an active volcano erupt, ride a gondola in Venice, and pet a tiger.

She currently lives in South Dakota and works as a microbiologist by day. Some of her obsessions include comic book movies, hot chocolate, sushi, sunshine, and Doctor Who.

Author Links:

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Buy Links:

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Soul Crossed
(Of Demons and Angels Book One) by Lisa Gail Green
Publication Date: February 25, 2015
Publisher: Full Fathom Five Digital
Genre: Young Adult, New Age
Status: First Installment
Rating:  4 Stars

Book Summary (Goodreads):

One Demon.

One Angel.

One Soul.

Josh lived a reckless, selfish life, so upon his death, escaping the eternal torments of Hell by assuming the role of a powerful, soul-corrupting demon is an easy choice. His first soul assignment doesn’t seem too hard: the mortal Camden is already obsessed with weapons, pain, and torture. If only Josh wasn’t distracted by Cam’s beautiful friend, Grace.

Grace never expected to die violently at age sixteen, but now she’s an Angel, responsible for saving a soul. She can already see past Camden’s earthly flaws, so the job should be be easy. If only that handsome, playboy Josh would stop getting in the way.

It’s forbidden for an Angel to be with a Demon, so if Josh and Grace stop resisting each other, the results would be disastrous.

And only one can claim Cam’s soul.

Book Review:

I really enjoyed Soul Crossed by Lisa Gail Green. There’s so much to love about this book! It’s told by the POV’s of two characters, Grace and Josh. Grace lived a good life and was killed in a car accident. When she dies she becomes an angel. Josh died because he too was in a car accident, but he was a drunk driver and went to hell. Both POV’s were given the option to do something with their afterlife. For Grace it was become an angel, and then possibly have the chance to see her family again, an offer she couldn’t refuse. For Josh, it was either be the devil’s puppet, or live an eternity in excruciating pain and torture. So Josh became a demon. The two soon cross paths as they both are sent to persuade a soul to either become good or evil. This soul is a boy named Camden, a troubled teen with many problems. Both POV’s attempt to be Camden’s friend, and both can’t seem to stay away from each other. It’s a wonderfully crafted love story. It’s gripping, intense, and has an amazing, epic ending leaving you wanting more!

I adored Josh from the beginning. He too had a rough life while he was human. As a demon, he might be a “bad” boy, but he has a compassionate side that at times is very hard for him to deny. Once he falls for Grace she becomes the only light in all his darkness, making her become the one thing he will do anything for, even if she might not understand what he’s doing.

Grace is pure goodness, but maybe a little naive. I think she doesn’t try not nearly hard enough to help Camden, and when she does, she’s very naive about it. It doesn’t take long for Camden to get doe-eyed with her and complicates things. Still she does her very best until the very end of the book. She too is tested to the limits when it comes to what she would or wouldn’t do for a person she loves. Though honestly, her being naive I think is partly what makes her such a good, innocent person. And she could seriously do with a little bit of Josh in her life!

I simply loved Soul Crossed. Josh and Grace’s story is quite poetic.

What I didn’t like about the book:

I enjoyed most of the story, however there’s  a few minor explicit type of scenes. I understand that Josh is a “bad” boy and a demon, but I think some of these scenes could have been left out or perhaps more implied. Some however made sense and were vital to the plot.

What I liked about the book:

I loved the plot of this story, the main characters and how they grow and become stronger throughout the story, and I love the intense ending! Oh. My. Goodness. That ending! So Epic!

Recommended Audience:

Soul Crossed is a must read for those YA fan’s that love stories about demons and angels, love stories, twists and turns, and action!

Book Quotes:

Quote 1:

Please, please let me have this. 
I open my eyes. He waits for me, still and intoxicatingly beautiful. I set my hands on his and feel the prickling sting travel over my fingers and up my arms. Far from pain, it’s like my flesh is alive with desire. If he feels it, too, he does not let on. He simply leads me to the dance floor, never taking his eye sof of me.

I’m thrilled by the sensations running through me and giddy with the knowledge that the Earth hasn’t swallowed us whole. I wrap my arms around his neck and lean my head against his chest, letting our bodies meld together with the music.

For the first time since I died, I feel content.

Quote 2: 

The only problem is I’m falling for her. The thought of stabbing her in the back like that makes the bottom drop out of my stomach. If it were anyone else, I could do it. I could swallow my conscience and get the job done. But it isn’t anyone else. It’s Grace. My grace.

Buy Links:

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About the Author:

Lisa Gail Green lives with her husband the rocket scientist and their three junior mad scientists in Southern California. She writes books so she can have an excuse to live in the fantasy world in her head. She likes to share these with readers so she’s represented by the lovely Melissa Nasson of Rubin Pfeffer Content. She has a parrot but would most definitely get a werewolf for a pet if she weren’t allergic.

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Invaded (Alienated Book 2) by Melissa Landers

Publication Date: February 3, 2015

Publisher: Disney Hyperion

Genre: Young Adult, Science Fiction

Status: Second Installment

Book Synopsis (Goodreads):

The romantic sequel to Alienated takes long-distance relationships to a new level as Cara and Aelyx long for each other from opposite ends of the universe…until a threat to both their worlds reunites them.

Cara always knew life on planet L’eihr would be an adjustment. With Aelyx, her L’eihr boyfriend, back on Earth, working to mend the broken alliance between their two planets, Cara is left to fend for herself at a new school, surrounded by hostile alien clones. Even the weird dorm pet hates her.

Things look up when Cara is appointed as human representative to a panel preparing for a human colony on L’eihr. A society melding their two cultures is a place where Cara and Aelyx could one day make a life together. But with L’eihr leaders balking at granting even the most basic freedoms, Cara begins to wonder if she could ever be happy on this planet, even with Aelyx by her side.

Meanwhile, on Earth, Aelyx, finds himself thrown into a full-scale PR campaign to improve human-L’eihr relations. Humans don’t know that their very survival depends on this alliance: only Aelyx’s people have the technology to fix the deadly contamination in the global water supply that human governments are hiding. Yet despite their upper hand, the leaders of his world suddenly seem desperate to get humans on their side, and hardly bat an eye at extremists’ multiple attempts on Aelyx’s life.

The Way clearly needs humans’ help . . . but with what? And what will they ask for in return?

My Review:

I really liked Invaded by Melissa Landers.  The book is told from both Cara and Aelyx’s points of view. Aelyx is on Earth and Cara has arrived on L’eihr, Aelyx’s home planet.   I was really looking forward to this book, but I was also a little worried about the direction this second book would take.  I can honestly say that Invaded surpassed my expectations.  When a new character was introduced at the end of Alienated, I was worried about a love triangle.  I think that love triangles have been way over done in the past couple of years.  To me, they have become a big turn off, unless they are very well done.  I was very glad that the author went in another direction.  I also wondered how the author was going to keep our interest with the main characters being on separate planets.  Needless to say, I had nothing to worry about.  There were plenty of exciting things going on.

Cara is on L’eihr without Aelyx.  She has no friends except for her brother, Troy and Aelyx’s sister, Elle.  She learns very quickly that teenagers on Earth and L’eihr are not so different.  They have a hard time accepting “the new kid” and now she is “the new kid”.  L’eihr is beautiful, but very different from Earth.  She misses her home, family, and Aelyx.  They talk via their comm links everyday, but it just isn’t the same.  School is another adjustment.  She was valedictorian of her graduating class on Earth and on L’eihr, she is behind everyone else.  The L’eihr’s expect excellence from their young people and not just in education.  They have their form of PE class and it makes PE classes on Earth look like a joke.  She has a lot of hard work ahead of her, but someone is trying to sabotage her position on L’eihr.  She discovers that not everything is as it seems on this planet that will be her new home.

Aelyx is on Earth trying to undo the damage that he did in book one.  Syrine is with him, but they are still not on speaking terms after she slapped Cara on the space ship, but that is the least of his problems.  Someone doesn’t want him on Earth and would like to see the end of his existence.  There have been some attempts on his life, but he is keeping this from Cara, because he doesn’t want her to worry.  Aelyx and Syrine are traveling around meeting with humans and trying to drum up support for the alliance.  Aelyx misses home and Cara very much.  When he finds out the things that are happening to Cara, he gets frustrated, because he isn’t there to help her.  Aelyx and Syrine have a group of soldiers protecting them, but will that be enough?  Will Aelyx find out who is trying to kill him?

I just love Aelyx and Cara.  They are such wonderful characters and their love story is very sweet.  I hope there will be another book in the series.  I definitely want more Aelyx and Cara.

Things I didn’t like about the book:

Honestly, the only thing I have to complain about is not enough of Aelyx and Cara being together on the same planet.  But I’m not sure that was really a bad thing, because it made the time they were together even more special.

Things I liked about the book:

I like the way the author dealt with the long distance relationship between Cara and Aelyx.  We got to see just how strongly they care about each other, but we also got to see their doubts and worries.  I liked seeing things from both of their perspectives and knowing how each one felt about the things that were happening to them.  In any good story you have to have an antagonist or two.  We get to meet some in this book and one of them stands out in my mind.  He has great potential as a villain and I do love a good villain.  I liked the relationship between Cara and Aelyx.  It was very believable and realistic.  Having a relationship with someone from a different planet has inherent problems, which were addressed in this book.  I liked that the author didn’t gloss over the problems.  Aelyx and Cara had to face the problems and work through them.  I liked Cara’s time on L’eihr and the new things that she saw and experienced.  She was put threw the ringer, but came out better for the experience.  I loved many of the side characters as well, Elle, Troy, David, Alona, and her fitness instructor that she prefers to think of as Satan.

Invaded is a great book and I highly recommend it.  If you haven’t read the first book, Alienated, then you should do that first.  You won’t be disappointed.

About the Author:

Melissa Landers is a former teacher who left the classroom to pursue other worlds. A proud sci-fi geek, she isn’t afraid to wear her Princess Leia costume in public—just ask her husband and three kids. She lives just outside Cincinnati and writes adult contemporary romance as Macy Beckett.

Reflection Pond by Kacey Vanderkarr
Publication Date: March 30th, 2014
Publisher: Urban Fey Press
Genre: Young Adult, Fantasy
Status: First Installment
Rating: 4.5 Stars

Book Summary (Goodreads):

Callie knows a lot more about pain than she does about family. She’s never belonged, at least, not until she falls through a portal into her true home. The beautiful faerie city of Eirensae doesn’t come free. Callie must find her amulet and bind herself to the city, and most importantly, avoid the Fallen fae who seek her life. Seems like a small price to pay for the family she’s always wanted.

Then she meets cynical and gorgeous Rowan, who reads the darkness of her past in her eyes. He becomes Callie’s part-time protector and full-time pain in the ass. He has secrets of his own for Callie to unravel. What they don’t know is that the future of Eirensae lies with them, and the once peaceful city is about to become a battleground for power.

My Review:

I really enjoyed reading the Reflection Pond by Kacey Vanderkarr. I honestly wasn’t expecting to love it as much as I did. From the beginning the story is action packed and filled with complex, lovable characters. The novel is told from the points of view of Callie and Rowan. Callie has a troubling past that keeps her from getting too close to people. And Rowan has a dark soul and rarely shows others the goodness that’s in him. The two cross paths right from the start and instantly are not fond of each other. As their tales unravel, Callie sees more to Rowan than the sarcasm and rudeness, and Rowan sees a beauty in Callie that he can’t seem to push away.

Most of the story takes place in Eirensae,  one of the Faery cities that welcomes their children home and has them search for their amulets so that they can bind themselves to their city. Most of the children were sent into the human world as infants in order to protect them from the Fallen and the Immortals, dark creatures that search for fae children in order to make themselves Immortal and to help others become Immortal as well. Each of the fae children come back to their home city when it’s time for them to find their amulets. Once they are bound to the city they are no longer a target for these darker fae. In Eirensae, a place thought to be safe, Callie is hunted by the Fallen. Rowan deems himself as her protector and does everything he can to keep Callie safe. In the mean time Callie learns about her powers and practices with her new friend Ash despite the dangers around her. Callie is determined to control her magic and keep her new family and home safe. But is it enough?

My favorite character of this novel is Rowan. I love reading from his point of view because he is honestly snarky at times, and it’s just great! There is a bit of a love triangle in this book, but the author does a fabulous job with it. There is so much to Rowan’s character and it was neat to see the side of Rowan that he normally doesn’t let anyone see. I have to be honest that Callie kind of drove me crazy at the beginning of the story. She comes off as a little whinny, but then again she did just magically fall through a portal into the fae realm. Once Callie moves on from her disbelief that something like this could happen to her, her character blossoms into a strong, and determined soul that finally, in all her years of loneliness from being an orphan and in the foster system, has found a family and people to love and hold dear. Callie becomes a great female lead, filled with hope and light and it’s a wonderful balance with Rowan’s dark, noble character. The story is a must read!

What I didn’t like about the book:

Overall I thought this book was fantastic, the only thing I didn’t like about it was how quickly the author went from the human world to the fae world. I would have loved, even if it was just one chapter, a peak into Callie’s life in the human world. I also thought the way Callie enters the fae realm was a little strange. To me it didn’t make sense how she fell into the pond because the circumstance that made her fall into the pond were not realistic. But other than that, it’s a fast paced and truly gripping story that you can’t put down.

What I liked about the book:

I loved the plot, I loved the characters, and I loved how original the story was. I can’t wait to read the sequel, the Poison Tree.

About the Author (Goodreads):

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Gathering Darkness by Morgan Rhodes
Publication Date: December 9th, 2014
Publisher:  Razorbill
Genre: Young Adult, Fantasy
Status: Third installment of the Falling Kingdom Series
Rating: 5 Stars

Book Summary (Goodreads):

War brought them together. Love will tear them apart.

Alliances form across Mytica and beyond as royals and rebels alike race to hunt down the Kindred—the four elemental crystals that give their owners god-like power. The stakes have never been higher for Magnus and Cleo, who are brought together by a life or death decision that will lock their fates and change the course of the kingdom forever.

THE REBELS forge ahead. Princess Cleo slays with sweetness—and a secret that might control Lucia’s magic—as she and vengeful Jonas lead the hunt for the all-powerful Kindred.

THE KRAESHIANS join the fray. Ashur and Amara, the royal siblings from the vast kingdom across the Silver Sea, prove to be just as ruthless as they are charming as they manipulate their way to victory.

THE WATCHERS follow Melenia out of the Sanctuary. They ally, in the flesh, with King Gaius, who vows to use Lucia’s powers to unveil the Kindred.

And which side will Prince Magnus choose, now that everyone he’s been betrayed by everyone he’s ever loved? 

My Review:

This was my favorite book of 2014. I anxiously awaited this book all year and when I finally got my hands on it I couldn’t put it down. This series just keeps getting better and better and Gathering Darkness is the best so far! I can’t believe there’s three more books to go! One of my favorite things about these books is that you really get to see each of the characters evolve. Some evolve into extraordinary heroes while others give in to that darkness. Some hold on to that small light of good, refusing to extinguish it while others think the only way forward is to allow that darkness to consume them. Cleo and Jonas are fantastic in Gathering Darkness. Lucia’s story I purely loved. My all time favorite character is Magnus whom I absolutely love. His story was by far my favorite. I love him even more in Gathering Darkness than I did in the previous novels. I have high hopes for that young man!

Gathering Darkness is a dark, complex, and a captivating story. Filled with magic, fighting, and unexpected love. There’s betrayal, hope, and heartache. It’s a beautiful masterpiece of young adult and fantasy novels, and one of my favorite stories I have ever read.

The hunt for The Kindred has begun, Lucia and Cleo together search for it. But they are not alone in the hunt. Gathering Darkness brings new players to the game as the kingdoms around them are being destroyed under the Blood King’s reign. Jonas does everything in his power to help Cleo, but is it enough?

The Watchers: We learn more about the Watchers in this in this book. I love the story of the Watchers. I think Alexius has a noble heart and tries his best to remain true to it. But Melenia’s dark power grows in this story.

The Rebels: Lysandra’s story was honestly my favorite in this book. She is a wild, fierce character, and is the rock and strength of the Rebel’s. Without her I’m not sure Jonas would be able to lead. She honestly steadies him.

The Defeated: Auranos is defeated. The King rules with little mercy, but keeps customs the same in order to avoid any rebellions. Cleo does her best to blend in so that she can slowly take them over. But she needs help. Jonas does his best, but I’m not entirely sure it’s his help she needs.

The Conquerors: I love everyone’s POV in this book, but my favorites are Lucia and Magnus. It’s so neat to see Lucia become more confident in her abilities and to not see them as evil. And her love story with Alexius is amazingly well done. King Gaius is still a dark, twisted King that hunts eagerly for The Kindred so that he can be more powerful than anything. And then there’s Magnus.. my heart aches for Magnus, it always has. But I still believe there’s a light inside of him. His story is mostly about him trying to deal with the horrible deeds his father commits, and trying to ignore his fondness for Cleo. He also does whatever he can to help his sister, even though he ignores her half the time. It is my belief that Magnus has the ability to become the best of them. But maybe I’m wrong, because those with the highest potential sometimes have the biggest fall.

What I didn’t like about the book: 

Honestly there wasn’t one single thing I disliked about this book. It was that good. Well worth the year wait. It didn’t disappoint.

What I liked about the book:

Is it possible to love every little thing about a book? I loved the plot, I loved the characters. I loved to see who went bad and who went good, who stayed the same and who changed. I loved the darkness, the light, the moments my heart broke and the moments that took my breath away. And the ending. Oh my gosh the ending. WOW! This book is purely magical.

Book Quotes:

It was a crushing defeat in far too many ways, and if Jonas thought about it too much he could barely see straight, could barely function beyond his guilt and grief.
His plan. His orders.
His fault.
Again.  – Morgan Rhodes, Gathering Darkness

It was moments such as this when she found the prince to be the most confusing. It was so unexpected to see pain in a boy so cold, a boy responsible for all the monstrous deeds she hated him for. But a true monster shouldn’t be capable of feeling pain like that. – Morgan Rhodes, Gathering Darkness

“Lately my more troubling dreams have shifted from ones of my dark-haired sister to ones of a princess with hair of pale gold.” He took up a lock of Cleo’s waist-length hair and twisted it around his index finger. He stared at it, transfixed. “Dreams of one I was bound to against my wishes.”
Her cerulean eyes widened. “You dream about me?”
His gaze snapped back to hers. “Nightmares only.” – Morgan Rhodes, Gathering Darkness

About the Author (Goodreads):

Morgan Rhodes lives in Ontario, Canada. As a child, she always wanted to be a princess — the kind that knows how to wield a sharp sword to help save both kingdoms and princes from fire-breathing dragons and dark wizards. Instead, she became a writer, which is just as good and much less dangerous. Along with writing, Morgan enjoys photography, travel, reality TV, and is an extremely picky, yet voracious reader of all kinds of books. Under another pen name, she’s a national bestselling author of many paranormal novels. Falling Kingdoms is her first high fantasy.

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Ignite (Defy #2) by Sara B. Larson
Publication Date: December 30th, 2014
Publisher:  Scholastic Press
Genre: Young Adult, Fantasy
Rating: 5 Stars

Books Summary (Amazon):

In the kingdom of Antion, peace has at long last been restored. Now that King Hector’s reign of terror is over, the newly crowned King Damian, along with his most trusted guard, Alexa, must focus on rebuilding Antion and reclaiming the hope of their people. But the wounds of the past are no as easily mended as Alexa and Damian had hoped. And to further complicate matters, Alexa still harbors a secret love for Damian, a love she refuses to acknowledge for the sake of Antion, and for the sake of the king himself.

When new threats to the kingdom surface–including an assassination attempt on Damian–blame is cast on the once-friendly nation of Blevon. Alexa knows things are not what they seem, however, and once again the fate of her country hangs in the balance. Will Alexa be able to protect her king and find the true enemy before it’s too late?

Filled with romance and treachery, magic and violence, this stunning sequel to Defy whisks readers off on another thrilling adventure.

My Review:

I’m not sure how to put in words how much I loved this book! It’s a great sequel to Defy. Would I say it’s better than Defy? Most may say so, however I have a special spot in my heart for Defy… I’m a big fan of beginnings and endings of stories and more picky over in between books. With that being said though I still loved this book and thought it was a great continuation to a wonderfully, amazing story! Ignite is told form Alexa’s point of view. The story is about Alexa protecting the people she loves, even if it means pushing them away . Damian who still loves Alexa but seems to have given up on them being together, and Rylan… a constant friend of Alexa’s whom wishes he was more. There’s danger, dark sorcerers, kidnappings, and mysteries surrounding Alexa and her friends.

What I didn’t like about the book: 

The only thing I didn’t like about the story was something that was a bit clique. I don’t want to say what it was because I’d rather not spoil the book for anyone. It was simply one moment that before it happened I thought “huh, I bet it will happen this way” and sure enough it did. It was a bit clique and I remember thinking part of me wished it had happened different since everything else about these books is so unique. But as I think about the book and how it all played out, I think that despite that one clique moment it seemed to be the best way to resolve that particular situation, especially concerning Alexa and her inner turmoil regarding her feelings for Damian and the responsibilities she has. It makes complete and total sense why the author wrote it that way, and I completely understand. Still, in the moment that I read that scene I couldn’t help but wish it had happened just as unique as the rest of the story. Everything else I loved. It was action packed right from the start through to the end! It keeps you on the edge of your seat. It’s definitely a hard book to put down.

What I loved about the book:

Alexa is by far one of my favorite heroines! She’s a total bad ass. She’s a bad ass in Defy and she’s even more of a bad ass in Ignite. It’s so wonderful to see such a strong female character in a series. Alexa completely holds her own. She’s strong, fierce, brave, smart, independent, cunning, and loves deeply for everyone, including all of the kingdom. She puts others first. She continuously tries to be the best person she can be. She has her faults and when things don’t go her way, she may cry for a moment but then she picks herself back up and tries to think of another solution. I can think of no better role model for our teenage readers.

Damian is a wonderful king! I love how much we perceive him through Alexa’s point of view. She knows him so well, and in return I feel like I know him too. It’s amazing to read a story that has characters that seem to lift themselves off the pages and become part of you.

It was so nice to get to know Rylan a little more in this series. He is a constant, steady rock for Alexa. And despite his feelings for her, she tries so hard to not take advantage of him and to not mislead him. Which is so refreshing because I’ve read tons of stories where the leading lady does take advantage of the other guy and uses him to fill that gap in her heart.

I also loved the villains. I can’t speak their names because IT WOULD RUIN IT! But holy cow! These are some of the coolest, most evil villains I’ve ever read. So unique and original! They get under your nails and make your skin crawl, but in a good way!

I loved the action in this book! Complete non stop from beginning to end! So many twists and turns, you aren’t sure where it’s going to lead or how it’s going to end. And the ending is so epic and amazing, let me tell you!

Ignite is so amazingly written!  It’s very well developed, intense, and has a great plot.

If you haven’t read Defy yet you need to! These books are so amazing! It’s such a unique and captivating story. I promise you won’t be disappointed!

I cannot wait for book three!!!

Book Quote 1:

“Enough, Alex! Stop using my titles like you are nothing more than my guard.” His eyes flashed with anger, and his hands clenched at his sides.

“But… I am nothing more than your guard.”

“You and I both know that is a lie.”

Book Quote 2:

“Do you have any idea what it does to me?” he asked, his voice low. “To have you stand by me all day, outside my room all night, and to have to treat you like everyone else on the guard? To pretend to be your king and nothing more?”

About the author (Goodreads):

Author of YA Fantasy DEFY (January 2014) and IGNITE (Jan. 6, 2015) from Scholastic. Mommy of three. Lover of chocolate, desserts of all kinds, and Swedish Fish. Also good books. Represented by Josh Adams of Adams Literary.

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The Lotus Effect (Rise of the Ardent #1)

by Bridget Ladd (Goodreads Author)

Book Synopsis(Goodreads):

An improbable partnership. An unforgettable love.

Lily Emerson, daughter of the Head of Council and Mistress of Science, has lived a privileged life. It’s Lily’s 18th nameday, the day she is to follow in her mother’s footsteps, becoming the next Mistress of Science—the most powerful woman in all of City Prosper. The Architect and designer of Prosper’s future.

During the night of her Coronation, the corruption of the Council spreads before her . . . opening her eyes to the cruelty that resides in the Council, even within her own parents. Lily realizes now the title of Mistress only comes with superficial power, that to truly save the citizens—she has to fight.

Fight in the Barrage—the mechanical gladiatorial tournament in which one chosen pair of volunteers from each Sector fights, armor-clad and as a team, utilizing unique weapon specialties: the Gatling gun, the Cestus, Klaives, Crescent Knives, mechanically engineered beasts—in the hope to win the right to change the Law. A law that has remained unchanged since its creation almost eighty years ago.

The tournament that Xander, Engineering Blacksmith and Lily’s partner, believes she has no business being in.

But Lily’s different. And she sets out to prove just that.

If you’re a fan of adventure, fighting for survival, unlikely female heroines, and romance—then grab your copy today!

Quote 1:

“Time–an empty existence.  Knowing only the bite of steel, the stretch of muscle to conceal the despair of loss, the barren hours, years, sitting alone.  Watching.  Waiting. Learning. Knowing what I know and yet cannot move forward.

These are the absolute thoughts that plague my every second.  I have been patient to my word.  Declarations of my own making.  And now that I have grown: I have proven ready.

The Council–shaded and driven by their own desire, fabrications, and hidden evil–had stripped away my only life.  My time has run out–and so too, has theirs.”

—-Xander, The Lotus Effect by Bridget Ladd

Quote 2:

“A sudden and rash idea formulated itself into the forefront of my mind.  I took a deep breath, steadying my tone.

“Your Feelings regarding my capabilities matter not,” I said evenly.  “For I, Lily Emerson, as governed by the Laws of Prosper, renounce the title of Mistress.”

A mixture of shock and dumb confusion filled the faces of all those watching me.

The locket that I had wrapped around my wrist suddenly fell into my palm.  Its smooth contours gave me courage . . . and an idea.

Nothing beneficial would come of me not accepting the title.  The council would still operate as they always had, and nothing would change for the citizens who were suffering at the hands of the unjust.

If I did nothing after tonight, I would only be looked upon as the unruly, childish girl, who revoked her responsibility.

To change the system, I needed something more.  Something brave.  Something . . . stupid.

Staring openly into the crowd, I stood as tall and proud as I could, secretly palming the locket for strength–the memory of the broken automaton driving me forward.

“I Lily Emerson, shall instead volunteer my name into the Drawing for Sector 8.  I will participate in the Barrage Tournament and, in doing so, shall wager my life to have the opportunity as victor to change the Law.”

I had said the words.  The words that were now binding.

Silence ensued.”

—-The Lotus Effect by Bridget Ladd

My Review:

4/5 Stars

 Xander has suffered great hardship in his life and Lily’s hardships are just beginning.  Lily renounces her title as Mistress of Science.  She declares her intention to fight in the Barrage Tournament for her sector.  The Tournament is a mixture of old fashioned fighting and science.  When it comes time to announce her partner, she discovers that Xander has volunteered. She knows very little about him, having only met him once.  They only have one month to train and Xander is a hard task master.  He  pushes Lily to her limits.  Along the way, Xander and Lily become friends and maybe something more.  Both of them would do just about anything to keep the other one safe.  The future of their world is in their hands.  They must win the Tournament in order to change things for the better.

I really liked this book and I loved the main characters.  Xander and Lily are wonderful together.  I would have liked a little more love story between the two, but that is just my opinion.  The story and characters were well developed.  There were a few places, in the story, that dragged a little, but not enough to keep me from reading to the end.  There was plenty of action and still many unanswered questions.  The sequel, Ardent Ascension, is out now and I will definitely read it.  The author is working on the third book in this series.  It is called Soul Arbor.  The Lotus Effect is a great first book in this series.  I would recommend it to anyone who likes steampunk fiction, dystopian societies, and just plan old science fiction.  I give this book 4 out of 5 stars.

About the Author(Goodreads):

Bridget Ladd never quite grew up. She’s most likely to be caught carrying a pocketful of souvenir rocks and shells (to the washer’s dismay) and gets excited over trivial things like colorful ponies and raiding tombs alongside her longtime favorite video game pal, Lara Croft. The smell of freshly turned dirt and the sea air are her favorites, and she isn’t above doing twirling spins barefoot in the grass on a beautiful day in her yard. Her books are her shields and she will admit to having her head in the clouds more times than she probably should . . . but she doesn’t let any of this bother her too much, remembering her favorite quote by Le Guin, and knowing that the creative adult is indeed the child who survived.

She graduated with honors with a Bachelor of Fine Arts in 3D Computer Animation/Interactive Design and minored in Art History at East Carolina University. Living her life solely as an artist and illustrator after school was not enough–knowing that a picture was only worth a thousand words–she felt she needed more. She had to get the trapped stories, the vivid, sometimes adventurous, sometimes terrifying dreams, out of her head. Like the authors, artists, musicians, scientists, peaceful warriors who inspire her, she too wishes to share her worlds with others, let them escape into the unknown. Let them know that like her, it’s okay to be different.

Summary (Goodreads):

The driver in a tragic car accident that killed her best friend, Devon Greer is consumed by guilt. When powerful hallucinations convince her that she’s seeing Rachael everywhere, Devon thinks she’s going crazy. But her friend isn’t truly gone.

To save Rachael from the faeries who stole her, Devon must pit herself against the Court of the Sidhe. Once she witnesses the true form of the fey, Devon’s life is in danger—and so are the lives of everyone she loves.

Now, Devon must not only protect herself, but also Jonah Seafort, Rachael’s cousin and the only person Devon can trust to help her. While the Sidhe walk among them, no one is safe…

My Review:

4/5 Stars

Eventide is about a girl named Devon who was a driver in a tragic car accident that killed her best friend. Soon after the accident she starts seeing Rachael everywhere, and begins to believe that her hallucinations are real. Devon, so desperate for answers and clinging on to any hope that her friend may still be alive, begins searching for answers, for reasons to explain all the crazy things she starts to see. And the more she searches, the darker the world around her becomes. I absolutely adored this book. I’m a huge fan of stories about the Sidhe and Eventide does not disappoint! It’s action packed filled with mystery, darkness, and everlasting friendship. It’s intense, and a unique addition to stories of the fae world. It is unlike any book I have ever read. Not often do you hear about faes that practically suck the life out of people and thrive on the energy their souls give until they blink out of existence. One reason I loved this story so much is because of Devon’s unyielding devotion to her friend Rachael. Once she starts to believe that she’s really seeing Rachael, and once she discovers that Rachael needs her help, Devon doesn’t give up. She is loyal to her friend to the very end of the book. Another thing I enjoyed about Devon is that Devon doesn’t have any supernatural powers and yet she lives in a supernatural world. Devon is your average, normal teenage girl that is thrown into difficult situations. She’s courageous and determined, a wonderful heroine in the YA genre. The love story in the book was super adorable. I loved Jonah right from the beginning. He’s so kind, and so sensible. He’s her anchor to the world and they help balance each other as they uncover more about what happened to Rachael and how to save her. I also really enjoyed Devon’s interactions with her four year old sister Lucy. She’s so stinkin cute. This book is a must read and I can’t wait to read more books from Chrstine Allen-Riley! I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys mystery, adventure, fantasy, and stories about the Sidhe.

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Book Quote: 

“Are you my sister’s boyfriend, now?”
My hands were still on his waist, and I felt a chuckle vibrate through him. He nodded at Lucy then he turned to me and added, “well, I am if she wants me to be.”
My little sister cocked her head to the side and looked at me. “Do you want him to?”
A flush warmed my face, and I nodded.
“Okay. wanna play barbies with me?”
Reaching out, I ruffled her hair. “Maybe after we eat. Right now I’m going to say goodbye to Jonah. Why don’t you go inside and see if you can help with supper?”
“All right. Bye, Boyfriend.”

Book Quote: 

Maggie’s bloodshot eyes hardened. “If you don’t find a way to save her, no one will. You have to do it. You’re the only one.”
“I don’t know how. I don’t know what to do.”
Maggie grabbed me by the shoulders and shook me. Hard. “figure it out, girl. If you don’t she has no chance.”

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About the Author:

Chrstine Allen-Riley

Lover of books, nature, cats and shiny things. Active disliker of cooking, cleaning and stress. Mom, freelance editor & YA author – also a bit of a nerd.

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