Review & Giveaway: The Unseemly Education of Anne Merchant (The V Trilogy) by Joanna Wiebe

So many secrets for such a small island. From the moment Anne Merchant arrives at Cania Christy, a boarding school for the world’s wealthiest teens, the hushed truths of this strange, unfamiliar land begin calling to her—sometimes as lulling drumbeats in the night, sometimes as piercing shrieks.

One by one, unanswered questions rise. No one will tell her why a line is painted across the island or why she is forbidden to cross it. Her every move—even her performance at the school dance—is graded as part of a competition to become valedictorian, a title that brings rewards no one will talk about. And Anne discovers that the parents of her peers surrender million-dollar possessions to enroll their kids in Cania Christy, leaving her to wonder what her lowly funeral director father could have paid to get her in… and why.

As a beautiful senior struggles to help Anne make sense of this cloak-and-dagger world without breaking the rules that bind him, she must summon the courage to face the impossible truth—and change it—before she and everyone she loves is destroyed by it.
My time is very limited to reading now that we have baby Kellan. I have to chose my book wisely. This was a very wise choice. It is YA, but that shouldn't stop you. If you want something, fun, mysterious, a bit spooky and definitely thrilling, read this!

This is an excellent debut novel! So many times authors try to break out into the writing world and they almost meet it, but just cant grasp what we need as readers...Wiebe has no problems in that field. This book pulled me in, dragged me around a bit and kept me excited and gasping for air as I turned each page to see what would happen next.

The mystery behind the students and the school will drive you insane. Why is everyone so secretive!!?? I figured it out about 5 pages before Anne did, lol. I was like wait a minute....I know where this is going. BUT, even though I figured out part of the story, there was still a major twist I didn't see coming. So much suspense and unanswered questions up until the very end.

Reader beware, there is a cliff hanger. It's not one of those pull your hair out kind of hangers, but still it's there and from what I see no second book TBA yet...maybe soon, hopefully soon....IT BETTER BE SOON.

I can't wait to read more about Anne Merchant and more from Wiebe. I was very pleased with the work and loved every minute of the mystery and suspense of this story.

This giveaway is going to be simple. Just leave a comment below with a  paranormal book recommendation and like Joanna Wiebe on Facebook (we are using the honor system). A winner will be selected in 1 week for a paperback copy. This is open to US and Canada residents only.

Tour Stop: Euphoria by Erin Noelle

Blurb
After a series of catastrophic misunderstandings and impulsively poor decision-making, Scarlett MacGregor finds herself once again torn between two loves, as different as they may be. Lacking proper closure with their relationship, accompanied by the overwhelming guilt for her role in his devastating downfall, Scarlett resolves to help Mason recover and reclaim his life as a budding rock star. However, now that he has finally claimed her as his, Ash Walker is bound and determined to keep her by his side, and he will go to any lengths necessary to do just that.

Mason Templeton has hit rock bottom. He’s in love with a girl whose heart and soul belong to another and he’s partied his way off of an international music tour that was supposed to be his big break. Returning home for rehab sounds like the worst possible way to start a new year, but when an unexpected friendship emerges, he begins to realize that maybe everything does happen for a reason.

Euphoria is the third and final installment of Scarlett, Ash, and Mason’s self-discovering journeys to happiness and understanding the meaning of true love ~ the kind that begs for complete surrender


Recommended for readers 17+ due to sexual content and harsh language.

Excerpt 

Embracing her one last time, I whispered in her ear, “I love you, butterfly… ‘your curves

and all your edges, and all your perfect imperfections.’ I’ll see you tomorrow night.”

“I love you, too, Ash. ‘You’re my end and my beginning; even when I lose, I’m winning,’”

she whispered back. Then she grabbed her bag and headed for the security check point. Right

before turning the corner where I couldn’t see her anymore, she looked back at me and blew me

a kiss and made hand hearts. Damn, she was beautiful. I stood there for several minutes with a

goofy ass grin on my face. I wasn’t expecting her to sing the next lyrics of the song to me, but it

filled me with an indescribable feeling of warmth and love. ~Ash


Review:
The perfect ending with just the right amount of angst and emotions.

I love this series so much it is unhealthy. I have been sad knowing the ending was coming, but feel that my need for this book as been fulfilled now that I have read it. I have closure. Now, let me say that we need another book with an alternate ending where Scar gets the other guy, lol. Seriously, the entire duration of this series I have never been able to decide and even though the end has decided for me, I still couldn't agree, lol.

If you have followed along with the story of Scarlet, Asher and Mason this book is a must read. If you haven't read the series then you need to! There are so many bumps and twists and turns and never ending angst and turmoil. You can never be too sure what will happen when reading this series.

Bravo on a job well done with the ending Erin. Now please, kill me again. I need another book for you and that wonderful brain of yours.

About the Author

Erin Noelle is a Texas native, where she lives with her husband and two young daughters. While earning her degree in History, she rediscovered her love for reading that was first instilled by her grandmother when she was a young child. A lover of happily-ever-afters, both historical and current, Erin is an avid reader of all romance novels. In 2013, she published the Book Boyfriend Series, which included books Metamorphosis, Ambrosia, and Euphoria. Her books have been a part of the USA Today Bestselling list and/ or the Amazon and Barnes & Noble overall Top 100. Most nights you can find her cuddled up in bed with her husband, her Kindle in hand and a sporting event of some sorts on television. You can follow her on Facebook @ www.facebook.com/erin.noelle.98, her blog @ www.erinoelle.wordpress.com, and on Twitter @authorenoelle.

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Tour Stop & Giveaway: Pieces for You by Genna Rulon

Title: Pieces for You (For You #2)
Author: Genna Rulon
Genre: New Adult 18+
Publication Date: December 15, 2013
Event organized by: Literati Author Services, Inc.  

Synopsis

"The phoenix hope, can wing her way through the desert skies, and still defying fortune's spite; revive from ashes and rise.” -Miguel de Cervantes

Samantha Whitney survived unimaginable tragedy only to discover she had been betrayed by a man who claimed to love her. Shattered, Sam spends months at a safe haven trying to piece herself back together. Ready or not, the time has come for her to return home. As Sam struggles to resume a life that no longer feels familiar, she finds unwavering support in an unexpected, familiar face. Confronting Sam’s raw emotions and open wounds head-on, Griffin manages to take two steps forward for every step she retreats. But when Sam is once again threatened, Griffin must decide how far he is willing to go to protect the woman he wants…knowing the cost of her safety is the risk of losing her. Pieces For You is a captivating journey of survival, healing, and sacrifice—teeming with honesty, humor, unexpected twists, and love’s unsurpassed endurance. *Though Pieces For You is a part of the For You Series, the book can be read as a stand alone.  

Add to Goodreads

Purchase Links for Pieces for You: Amazon US | Amazon CA | Amazon UK

Purchase Links for Only for You: Amazon US | Amazon CA | Amazon UK

 

Review

I have been waiting for this book for what feels like FOREVER! I read book one Only For You and fell in love with these characters, they felt like family from the very beginning and that same bond carries into book two, Pieces For You. This book picks up where Only For You left off except this time it's Sam's story, even though you still get a lot of Everleigh and Hunter a.k.a Huntleigh (I love the nickname).

Sam has to learn how to live again, to become a better stronger Sam than she was before. She had the unthinkable happen to her and when she needed them most her family left her high and dry. Her only family there to support her is Everleigh and Hunter, but there was only so much they could do. Being supportive and understanding as only best friends can be, Everleigh sets her up with a kick ass therapist who pushes her to try new things.

When Sam least expects it Griffin comes walking back into her life but this time she isn't looking at him through friendship eyes. This time she sees him as the sexy man candy that he is, but her head and her body are conflicted. Griffin helps Sam cope with these emotions and their friendship starts to grow into more.

 

As Sam prepares to testify against the man who took her life away she starts receiving threats, with Sams life in danger, Griffin will stop at nothing to keep her safe, no matter what the cost!! He will do anything to put a smile on her face, to hear her laugh and make her feel safe.

Overall I give this book a solid 4.5 stars! Genna took a really hard subject and turned it into an inspirational story. I'm sure it wasn't easy to write but she did a fantastic job. I can't wait to read more of this series, the friendships and family continue to grow with each book. We are introduced to Meg and in the third book, Temper For You (expected release March 2014) we will find out her story and I am on pins and needles for this book!! If you loved Only For You, then you need to read this, it just gets better and better.

About the Author

Genna Rulon is an up and coming contemporary romance author. During her 15 years in the corporate world, Genna, inspired by her love of reading, fantasized about penning her own stories. Encouraged by her favorite authors, many of whom are indie writers and self-published, she committed to pursuing her aspirations of writing her own novels. Genna was raised in Long Island, New York, where she still resides, surrounded by the most amazing family and friends. Married to a wonderful man, who patiently tolerates her ramblings about whichever book she is currently working on, even feigning interest relatively convincingly! Genna is blessed with two little boys who do their best to thwart mommy’s writing time with their hilarious antics and charming extrapolations.

Connect with the Author: Facebook | Twitter | Website | Goodreads | Pinterest | Tumblr

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Tour Stop & Giveaway: Angel After Dark by Kahlen Aymes

Dr. Angeline Hemming is a beautiful, sassy, no-nonsense type of girl who has risen from a difficult past to become one of Chicago’s most successful and respected criminal profilers. In exchange for free commercials to promote her favorite charitable causes, Angel answers calls and gives relationship advice on a Friday night radio program.

Alexander Avery is a gorgeous and successful corporate genius who doesn’t believe in love. When his girlfriend of convenience calls into Angel’s program, he is furious with the show’s host who doles out (what he considers) blind advice, without knowing all the facts… and he decides to give her a piece of his mind, and his side of the story!

When Angel informs Alex he’s the one in need of a much-deserved lesson, all hell breaks loose as these two type-A personalities battle it out for control over minds and hearts, and yes, in bed. Not only are they fighting each other at every turn, but they are also struggling to uphold the convictions they each live by.

It’s unclear who is stronger, but both must discover that to get what they desperately want, they may have to give a little… or a lot.

Amazon ~ Smashwords

Review
Wow....Just Wow!! The chemistry between these two is enough to burn your fingers when you turn the page!! Angel Hemming knows what she wants and what she will not stand for, it's as simple as that. She's met guys like Alex before and she know exactly how to deal with them. Alex is very cocky, he's smart and knows what he wants and will do anything to get it. All he wants is a physical relationship with no strings attached but even that gets old after awhile. Alex needs someone to push him, someone that's not only sexy as hell but who can match him in wits and Dr. Angeline Hemming is who he has his sights set on and he's not backing down. Now all he has to do is convince her to give him a chance. They push each other at every turn, neither one wanting to back down from what they believe.

 

The banter between the two is hilarious, Angel sure knows how to put Alex in his place. This is a fun, witty read and Kahlen pulls you into the story with her creative writing, the characters and their story feel real like you're watching two friends figure out their relationship and fighting chemistry. There is also a bit of mystery entwined in the story, since Angel is a criminal profiler her job puts her at risk and by the end of the book things are left up in the air about what could happen next and I can't wait to read more about Angel and Alex. I'm on pins and needles waiting!!!!! I'm giving this a solid 4.5 stars!!
 

Angel After Dark by Kahlen Aymes Teaser Trailer from Heather Maven on Vimeo.

About the Author
Amazon Bestselling Author, Kahlen is an award-winning author of sizzling hot, deeply moving contemporary romance. Her stories are filled with intense love, passion, angst and emotion that breathes life into her characters and leaves her readers captivated. She lives near Omaha, Nebraska with her daughter, Olivia and their three dogs. Creative by nature, she enjoys the arts, music and theater… But the love of her life is writing!

Author Links
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/kahlen.aymes

Twitter: https://twitter.com/Kahlen_Aymes

Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/5768062.Kahlen_Aymes

Giveaway
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Review: True Love Story Willow Aster

Growing up in an idealistic home, Sparrow Fisher is sheltered and innocent. When she meets Ian Sterling, a musician who is rising in popularity, she instantly falls for his charm. They run into each other over the next few months and eventually begin an unconventional relationship.

At different places in their lives, Sparrow is off to college in New York, and Ian is traveling the country with the band. When they see each other, all seems wonderful and lighthearted, but when they’re apart, Sparrow is left to wonder if Ian really cares about her the way he says he does, or if she’s just another pretty face to him.

Once their relationship steadies, they’re both happier than they’ve ever been, and it’s hard to not get caught up in the magic they have together. Until something so devastating comes to light that threatens to shatter everything they’ve built with each other.
True Love Story is a story about the real highs and lows that come with a relationship—happiness, pain, angst, and finding out if love really is enough.

So apparently, I fell a bit behind last year on my reading…I purchased this book in February 2013 and have just gotten around to reading it…man I’m horrible. I have read many rants and raves about this book on the web and was finally able to see what everyone was freaking out about. OMG, so glad I finally got my chance to read it! This is one of those books that has you squirming in your skin because you want badly for something to happen and then it finally does and you are still squirming from the giddy excitement.

With me being a new mommy, my time is very limited for reading, so if I’m reading, it better be good! I don’t want to waste my time on anything that is less than excellent. This book fit the new standards for this new mommy. I didn’t regret a single moment of reading. It’s beautiful, angsty and drama filled….just the way I like it!

This is a rock star story, but not the obnoxious, bad boy rocker we normally think of. This is about a guy, who lives for his music, has a bit of fame and a few women. Oh, and our heroine is far from a groupie. She is just a young girl that falls in love at the wrong time..ahh…sigh….
I think Ian Sterling fell for me today.



There is no way that Ian Sterling feels anything real for me.



I fell for him at first sight four years ago.



Of course, I don’t believe in love at first sight.



Okay, if not love at first sight, then I fell in love with him today, when we spoke… when he took my hand in his.



That was pure lust, not to be confused with love.



I’ve never felt like this.



I’m young and don’t know what I’m feeling.



I’m not an idiot; I know my own mind better than anyone.



He is a master flirt and it was meaningless.



I think I rocked his world.



I hate when I do the girl thing. I’m sure Ian left lunch this afternoon and didn’t give me another thought. Why can’t I be like that?

We start our knowing from the very beginning that the couple is not together even though they once were. I LOVED that about this book. I already knew where it was going in the beginning. But then we get a flash back to before they even knew each other and we go from there to work our way up to why they aren’t together. Let me tell you. This is a bumpy, touchy, steamy, gut wrenching road!



This book was just what I have needed. Not a series, just an awesome stand alone that fulfills my every reading need between the pages of the wonderful story that wasn’t too short but wasn’t too long either. It was just right for what needed to be explored and we end the book with a feeling of fullness from the words we have digested.


If you like rock star books, read this. If you like sweet, flirty books….read this. If you want a realistic love story read this. For those of use that just love the drama, angst and all of the squirmy, cant sleep good stuff, READ THIS!

Review: The Destiny of Violet and Luke by Jessica Sorensen

Luke Price's life has always been about order, control, and acting tough on the outside. For Luke, meaningless relationships are a distraction-a way to tune out the twisted memories of his childhood. He desperately wishes he could forget his past, but it haunts him no matter what he does.

Violet Hayes has had a rough life. When she was young, she was left with no family and the memory of her parents' unsolved murders. She grew up in foster homes, living with irresponsible parents, drugs, and neglect, and trying to fight the painful memories of the night her parents were taken from her. But it's hard to forget when she never got closure-and she can't stop dreaming about what happened that tragic night. To make it through life, she keeps her distance from everyone and never allows herself to feel anything.

Then Violet meets Luke. The two clash instantly, yet they can't seem to stay away from each other. Although they fight it, they both start to open up and feel things they've never felt before. They discover just how similar they are. But they also discover something else: The past always catches up with you.

Sorensen has done it again. I have been won over by her badass characters. She always seems to know how to capture the best and worst of her characters yet still make us like them.

The mystery and sadness that goes along with this love story is really what makes the book. If we didn't have the extra component we would have just had another love story that follows the same pattern as all of the others. But the twists and turmoil (as in all of Sorensens' books) really had me going.

I wanted so much more of this story. The end left me dying for more. I hope there is another book after this or at least the completion of the destiny of these two characters somewhere in another book. Rock on Jessica!