Hello and Happy Wednesday. I hope your week is off to a great start!
I'm sharing three books I read and quite enjoyed and maybe you'll find something here to read too!
Traded by Rebecca Brooke
dual pov, contemporary, abuse trigger
I’m a pawn, a piece of chattel, a toy--used and forgotten.
When you’re done with me, you can walk away with no regrets. That’s how my husband sees me. I try to be the best wife possible for him. After all, he took me on when no one else would. Now--he’s in debt and owes more money to the loan shark than we can possibly repay.
But, don’t worry, he’s come up with a solution, it’s just not one I was expecting.
...I’ve been TRADED.
Rating - 
I liked this book. I did. Any time a broken woman can rise above and triumph, I applaud. However, I wasn't quite sold by this story.
Elena was verbally and emotionally abused by her husband for the entire 5 years of their marriage. How she allowed herself to be convinced by him that she was worthless is neither here nor there because this does happen. How she believed that through it all he really loved her was beside the point. What frustrated me was how fast she got past this (not even a month bro!)
She went from meek and submissive to sassy and borderline rude in a hot minute. I get that this is fiction but there was no real internal struggle.
She kept mentioning how serious she took those wedding vows. That when she said them she meant them. Ummmmmm... weren't you blackout drunk during your wedding in Vegas and didn't even know you were married until you woke up with a ring on your finger???
Then she kept saying that for 5 years she tried to be a good wife. But yet she grew up with both of her parents, who were still happily married it seemed. She already had an example of a good wife and it seemed nothing like the subservient slave she turned herself into. Her abuse was unfortunate, yes, but not completely understood by me.
This book annoyed me as well because it failed to fact check its info. Isn't Off Broadway the term used for a small theater in New York? Then how was Elena in an Off Broadway production in Colorado? Was this a travelling Broadway?
The only saving grace for this story was Ashton. I love an Alpha thug in glasses!! I loved how he quickly saw her situation and made moves to help her escape it. The way he helped her break out of her shell and become her own person was a beautiful thing. I really liked how he loved her.
The ending was pretty abrupt but some people like short and sweet HFN's I guess. Aside from some editing mishaps, the story was well written.
If you like a book that speaks on overcoming and moving past abuse and opening your heart to try again, this book might be right up your alley.
I liked this book. I did. Any time a broken woman can rise above and triumph, I applaud. However, I wasn't quite sold by this story.
Elena was verbally and emotionally abused by her husband for the entire 5 years of their marriage. How she allowed herself to be convinced by him that she was worthless is neither here nor there because this does happen. How she believed that through it all he really loved her was beside the point. What frustrated me was how fast she got past this (not even a month bro!)
She went from meek and submissive to sassy and borderline rude in a hot minute. I get that this is fiction but there was no real internal struggle.
She kept mentioning how serious she took those wedding vows. That when she said them she meant them. Ummmmmm... weren't you blackout drunk during your wedding in Vegas and didn't even know you were married until you woke up with a ring on your finger???
Then she kept saying that for 5 years she tried to be a good wife. But yet she grew up with both of her parents, who were still happily married it seemed. She already had an example of a good wife and it seemed nothing like the subservient slave she turned herself into. Her abuse was unfortunate, yes, but not completely understood by me.
This book annoyed me as well because it failed to fact check its info. Isn't Off Broadway the term used for a small theater in New York? Then how was Elena in an Off Broadway production in Colorado? Was this a travelling Broadway?
The only saving grace for this story was Ashton. I love an Alpha thug in glasses!! I loved how he quickly saw her situation and made moves to help her escape it. The way he helped her break out of her shell and become her own person was a beautiful thing. I really liked how he loved her.
The ending was pretty abrupt but some people like short and sweet HFN's I guess. Aside from some editing mishaps, the story was well written.
If you like a book that speaks on overcoming and moving past abuse and opening your heart to try again, this book might be right up your alley.
Lost by Ker Dukey
dark romance, multiple pov
We came from nothing and were given a second chance at life, and life was pretty good until it tipped on its axis and my world came tumbling down around me.
My Baby Sister is missing…
Stolen…
Lost…
I’ve never felt this helpless before now, the vacant hole inside me expanding with each passing second of not knowing where she is.
What’s she going through?
Is she hurt?
Suffering?
Alive?
The more I learn of her disappearance the more fear implants itself inside my heart, hardening - darkening.
The world is a depraved place, full of evil lurking behind normality.
Behind smiles.
Behind deception and facades.
She needs me and I will do whatever it takes to find her.
Whatever.
Whatever.
Rating -
For the first time ever, I struggled with a Ker Dukey story :(
Winter's little sister, Summer, is missing. There's a serial killer who targets teenage girls on the loose. Winter is taking courses at school to become a cop and believes she's equipped to handle the case all on her own, despite the man she loves, a high-ranking detective, working it already. Sounds like magic in the making, right?
I'm always pissed when the heroine thinks she's too big for her britches. Having a hard-knock life doesn't mean you're prepared to take on serial killers, pedophiles, virgin auctioneers, slave traders, etc. And when the cops are already on it, you're just getting in the way.
The entire story is Winter rushing headlong into danger and Cole coming to the rescue. Winter waving a gun around and being overcome. Winter constantly putting herself in dangerous situations and wondering how she got there. Winter just never used her damn head.
I'm sad because this story had so much potential. Unfortunately the little glimmers that shone weren't enough for me to fall in love with it. Will it stop me from trying again? Absolutely not!
For the first time ever, I struggled with a Ker Dukey story :(
Winter's little sister, Summer, is missing. There's a serial killer who targets teenage girls on the loose. Winter is taking courses at school to become a cop and believes she's equipped to handle the case all on her own, despite the man she loves, a high-ranking detective, working it already. Sounds like magic in the making, right?
I'm always pissed when the heroine thinks she's too big for her britches. Having a hard-knock life doesn't mean you're prepared to take on serial killers, pedophiles, virgin auctioneers, slave traders, etc. And when the cops are already on it, you're just getting in the way.
The entire story is Winter rushing headlong into danger and Cole coming to the rescue. Winter waving a gun around and being overcome. Winter constantly putting herself in dangerous situations and wondering how she got there. Winter just never used her damn head.
I'm sad because this story had so much potential. Unfortunately the little glimmers that shone weren't enough for me to fall in love with it. Will it stop me from trying again? Absolutely not!
Royal Savage by Victoria Ashley
dual pov, contemporary romance, abuse trigger
I CAN’T CLOSE MY EYES… I refuse to. Every time I do, all I see is blood, death, and pain. I can feel it - almost taste it, bringing me back to that night.
It doesn't matter that I'm still breathing; I no longer need it, I no longer want it. I despise it along with everything else around me.
The only thing I long for is to fucking fade away. I've given up. Until her at least…
AVALON.
She comes into my world, knocking me on my ass.
It turns me on to have her around me. Makes me want to wrap my hand around her tight little throat and fuck her until she feels my pain, feels the monster in me, but also makes me want to protect her from the very thing that she should be afraid of... me.
Once she sees the damage that I’m capable of; she’ll look at me like everyone else around me does: with fear.
AVALON KNIGHT
HIS EYES... THE DARKNESS IN them draws me to him, making me want to taste him, feel him… and save him. I shouldn't have gotten on the back of his motorcycle that day. I know that now. Colton warned me. I was told it was dangerous. I was told that nothing would be the same. He was right.
ROYAL is dangerous, dark, and seductive; the very thing that keeps me hanging on, willing to give my last breath just to touch him… breathe him in.
He’s savage, inked, and highly captivating. So different from his brother…
He's hazardous to my health, mind, and body, yet the only thing that I crave. I want to free him. I want to change his mind, but I'm afraid that he’s already too faded…
Rating -
Even the blurb is a hot mess.
This wasn't the greatest book of all time, but it was entertaining.
Royal was crazy hot. Emphasis on crazy. He was a tortured hero. He was seen as a bad guy (by the small-minded people in his small town), but he wasn't a criminal. He was protective and loyal to a fault. Tragic circumstances changed his perspective on life and it took the love of a good woman, enter Avalon, to help him find a glimmer of light in the darkness.
The story was a bit rushed and I found that details were given sparingly. Random characters were introduced with no explanation. Examples include Cole, who was the brother of another random character named Riley, and Baxton, who was someone Royal grew up with. No history was really given of Royal other than the tragedy that took place almost two years ago. So while that incident helped to shape his character and give it some much needed depth, both he and Avalon came off as one-dimensional people.
Overall, a fast and intense read.
Even the blurb is a hot mess.
This wasn't the greatest book of all time, but it was entertaining.
Royal was crazy hot. Emphasis on crazy. He was a tortured hero. He was seen as a bad guy (by the small-minded people in his small town), but he wasn't a criminal. He was protective and loyal to a fault. Tragic circumstances changed his perspective on life and it took the love of a good woman, enter Avalon, to help him find a glimmer of light in the darkness.
The story was a bit rushed and I found that details were given sparingly. Random characters were introduced with no explanation. Examples include Cole, who was the brother of another random character named Riley, and Baxton, who was someone Royal grew up with. No history was really given of Royal other than the tragedy that took place almost two years ago. So while that incident helped to shape his character and give it some much needed depth, both he and Avalon came off as one-dimensional people.
Overall, a fast and intense read.
Hello and Happy Friday!
I've been gone for awhile, but I'm back (hopefully to stay). I've been reading, but for some reason, I keep forgetting to blog about the books I've loved (or not). I'll do better, I promise.
Today I'm sharing a week's worth of what I'm currently reading, what I want to read, and several romance book bargains.
Hopefully you find something to enjoy here too. Have an amazing weekend!!
What I'm Reading Now
What I'm Hoping to Read Next
Added to My TBR
I'm still working on what I already have on there and the books I own, so I've added nothing new. I'm doing really well, I think!
Romance Book Bargains
 $2.49Standalone
Genre: contemporary |
 $2.99Standalone
Genre: fantasy |
 $1.99Standalone
Genre: contemporary |
 $2.49Standalone
Genre: contemporary |
 $2.49Standalone
Genre: paranormal |
 $2.99Standalone
Genre: contemporary |
 $2.49Standalone
Genre: contemporary |
 $2.49Standalone
Genre: contemporary |
 $2.99Standalone
Genre: contemporary |
 $1.99Standalone
Genre: contemporary |
 $2.49Standalone
Genre: contemporary |
 $2.49Standalone
Genre: contemporary |
 $2.99Standalone
Genre: contemporary |
 $2.99Standalone
Genre: contemporary |
 $2.99Standalone
Genre: contemporary |
 $2.99Standalone
Genre: contemporary |
 $1.99Standalone
Genre: contemporary |
 $2.49Standalone
Genre: contemporary |
Hey everyone and welcome to another Throwback Thursday! This is the kind of post where I'll be sharing my book recommendations within a specific romantic trope or theme.
Today I'm sharing five Emotional Reads that tried their hardest to wreck me. I'm not an emotional person (although I've been known to cry like a baby during certain Disney movies), but these books touched me. And if they can have an effect on me, I can only imagine how they will ruin someone else.
If you've got a recommendation, please send it my way!
Dear Life by Meghan Quinn
I think what touched me the most in this book was what happened at the very end. The author wrote her own letter and it really pulled at my heartstrings. This book tore me apart. Seriously, it's like the author knew exactly which buttons to push to make me a sobbing mess and pushed them all at the same time. If you're in need of a good cry, you should give this story a try.
Levi's Blue by M. Leighton
This story was chock full of feels. So many feels. The author gave me a couple to really fall in love with and they put me through the emotional wringer. The hits kept coming, but my love never waned. Such incredible writing!
The Debt by Karina Halle
Jessica finds herself scared and alone, losing faith in herself and humanity with each agonizing moment that passes. That is until a stranger enters her life. A stranger who makes her live again. I didn't exactly fall in love with this story (the heroine wasn't for me), but it was full of angst and so for readers who love that, look no further. This story will bring you high and then low and then high again. It's messy and I enjoyed it.
Torrid Affair by Callie Anderson
Usually I try my best to avoid these types of stories because not only are they painful, but I can never figure out how cheating can result in a HEA. This book gave me a good ending for the characters I cared about. As you can guess, it's about an affair, but it was about so much more than that. And if you like your feelings being messed with, in a good way, you'll like this story too.
27 Truths by M.J. Fields
Heartbroken. I'm literally trying not to cry while writing this review. This book taught me how ugly angst could be and how great it could feel. Having my stomach tied into knots, trying to swallow over the lump in my throat, covering my eyes and still trying to read the words... freaking brilliant.
Find my review HERE
Hello and Happy Wednesday. I hope your week is off to a great start!
I'm sharing three books I read and quite enjoyed and maybe you'll find something here to read too!
After the Climb by Kristen Ashley
dual pov, vaguely descriptive heat, second chance contemporary romance
They were the Three Amigos: Duncan Holloway, Imogen Swan and Corey Szabo. Two young boys with difficult lives at home banding together with a cool girl who didn’t mind mucking through the mud on their hikes.
They grew up to be Duncan Holloway, activist, CEO and face of the popular River Rain outdoor stores, Imogen Swan, award-winning actress and America’s sweetheart, and Corey Szabo, ruthless tech billionaire.
Rich and very famous, they would learn the devastating knowledge of how the selfish acts of one would affect all their lives.
And the lives of those they loved.
Rating -
After the Climb is a heartbreaking tale full of heartbroken characters. I loved the way they loved each other but the struggle was real. All it took was one lie, some insecurity, and everyone was left devastated. While I felt Duncan's pain, and even found a crumb of sympathy for Corey (dude needed to grow up), my greatest empathy was for Imogen. She was hit the worst and the hits didn't stop coming for her.
When the truth came out, I liked that Imogen and Duncan didn't waste any time and how on board their children were with the new plan. Even stepping in to help things along. Can these characters be any cuter?
I know I'm supposed to have some sort of feelings for the exes, but they made their beds, didn't they? And I don't think it's possible to redeem either of them, especially Tom. Spoiler Alert, but he's a cheater. Can we really forgive that he put Imogen and their children through that?
I'm just saying that the only happy endings I cared about were Imogen's and Duncan's. And maybe their kids because they were awesome.
After the Climb is a heartbreaking tale full of heartbroken characters. I loved the way they loved each other but the struggle was real. All it took was one lie, some insecurity, and everyone was left devastated. While I felt Duncan's pain, and even found a crumb of sympathy for Corey (dude needed to grow up), my greatest empathy was for Imogen. She was hit the worst and the hits didn't stop coming for her.
When the truth came out, I liked that Imogen and Duncan didn't waste any time and how on board their children were with the new plan. Even stepping in to help things along. Can these characters be any cuter?
I know I'm supposed to have some sort of feelings for the exes, but they made their beds, didn't they? And I don't think it's possible to redeem either of them, especially Tom. Spoiler Alert, but he's a cheater. Can we really forgive that he put Imogen and their children through that?
I'm just saying that the only happy endings I cared about were Imogen's and Duncan's. And maybe their kids because they were awesome.
Fatal Intrusion by Jeffrey Deaver and Isabella Maldonado
multiple pov, thriller
Carmen Sanchez is a tough Homeland Security agent who plays by the rules. But when her sister is attacked, revealing a connection to a series of murders across Southern California, she realizes a conventional investigation will not be enough to stop the ruthless perpetrator.
With nowhere else to turn, Sanchez enlists the aid of Professor Jake Heron, a brilliant and quirky private security expert who, unlike Sanchez, believes rules are merely suggestions. The two have a troubled past, but he owes her a favor and she’s cashing in. They team up to catch the assailant, who, mystifyingly, has no discernable motive and fits no classic criminal profile. All they have to go on is a distinctive tattoo and a singular obsession that gives this chillingly efficient tactician his nickname: Spider.
Over the next seventy-two hours, Sanchez and Heron find themselves in the midst of a lethal chess match with the killer as they race to stop the carnage. As the victims mount, so do the risks. Because this spider’s web of intrigue is more sinister—and goes far deeper—than anyone could possibly anticipate.
Rating -
If I never read the word intrusion again in the near future, I'll be a happy person.
But seriously, this was such an intriguing whodunit thriller. As the reader, we got to know who committed the crimes, but we were blind as to why. Not as blind as the investigators, possibly because Carmen couldn't help being in the way and Jake just let her ruthlessly run rough-shod over everyone, but still. Trying to figure out the motives for each crime was its own sort of fun. And crazy. I enjoyed myself and where this story left off, with the possibility of future books. And maybe a little romance between these characters thrown in?
If I never read the word intrusion again in the near future, I'll be a happy person.
But seriously, this was such an intriguing whodunit thriller. As the reader, we got to know who committed the crimes, but we were blind as to why. Not as blind as the investigators, possibly because Carmen couldn't help being in the way and Jake just let her ruthlessly run rough-shod over everyone, but still. Trying to figure out the motives for each crime was its own sort of fun. And crazy. I enjoyed myself and where this story left off, with the possibility of future books. And maybe a little romance between these characters thrown in?
Love Me Today by A.L. Jackson
dual pov, forced proximity, single parent, contemporary romance, descriptive heat
I should have known I was in trouble when I backed my old, beat-up truck into the shiny Range Rover.
The driver looked like a gorgeous fallen angel – one who’d been booted right out of paradise for being a giant prick.
Good thing I’ll never have to see him again.
Except when I show up for my new job to teach a little girl how to ride her horse, I find the same icy blue eyes glaring back at me.
Paisley Dae is completely reckless. She’s also the best trainer in this small town. And Evelyn gets the best.
Protecting the little girl is my one focus.
Only the sassy trainer in her cut-offs and cowgirl boots quickly gets under my skin. Distractions are dangerous, but she soon becomes everything I crave.
One reckless night of giving in, and Caleb and I spiral into a web of passion.
But when I begin to unravel the secrets hiding in this place, I find there is more riding on this job than I thought.
Caleb and Evelyn are worth any sacrifice – only Caleb has to decide what he will sacrifice for me
Rating - 1/2
Caleb was a tough nut to crack, but as the reader, we got some insight into why he was such a grumpy sourpuss. Paisley had to figure it out for herself and I admired her perseverance because I wouldn't do it. The romance would be over if I were in the lead.
This story led me on a path of sweetness and I never expected how sinister and dangerous it would become. The author really took me there and I loved that added bit of suspense.
It was the heartwarming moments that made this book worth reading. The relationship that grew between Paisley and Caleb and that sweet little girl made all of the scary bits worthwhile.
1/2Caleb was a tough nut to crack, but as the reader, we got some insight into why he was such a grumpy sourpuss. Paisley had to figure it out for herself and I admired her perseverance because I wouldn't do it. The romance would be over if I were in the lead.
This story led me on a path of sweetness and I never expected how sinister and dangerous it would become. The author really took me there and I loved that added bit of suspense.
It was the heartwarming moments that made this book worth reading. The relationship that grew between Paisley and Caleb and that sweet little girl made all of the scary bits worthwhile.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
Social Icons