Blog Tour + Giveaway : Under The Rose-Tainted Skies by Louise Gornall

I am so very excited to be the blog stop on this awesome URTS Blog Tour! I bring something special for my stop. This book was gut wrenching, beautiful and brings forth the real struggle of a young girl suffering from mental issues. Here is the blurb if you haven’t heard about this book.

Title: Under The Rose-Tainted Skies
Author: Louise Gornall
Publisher: Chicken House
My ratings: 4 out of 5 stars
Released: 7th July, 2016
Agoraphobia confines Norah to the house she shares with her mother.

For her, the outside is sky glimpsed through glass, or a gauntlet to run between home and car. But a chance encounter on the doorstep changes everything: Luke, her new neighbour. Norah is determined to be the girl she thinks Luke deserves: a ‘normal’ girl, her skies unfiltered by the lens of mental illness. Instead, her love and bravery opens a window to unexpected truths …

An important and uplifting debut from a British author, which tackles mental health issues such as agoraphobia and OCD.




If you are not intrigued yet, I have another card up my sleeve. I have managed to score a snippet of Louise and it is from when Norah first meets Luke. Read on.

***

'Can I help?' I can’t look up to see who’s talking to me because anxiety has my chin stapled to my chest, but when I flick my eyes left I can see his reflection in the window. It’s New Boy from next door. He has dimples, and a mop of shaggy dark hair falls casually over his left eye. 

His feet meet, four steps, and my focus is free, running wild like a liberated stallion. 

‘No. No, thank you.’ In context, this might be the dumbest thing I have ever said. ‘I mean . . .’ Deep breath. ‘I mean . . .’ What do I mean? I feel flushed, like I’ve just dipped my face in the centre of the sun. 

Another breath as I stand up, back up, and steady myself against the door frame. I straighten my sweater, pulling it down and trying to cover everything above the soles of my feet. No amount of hugging my torso can hide the two giant teddies. 

I can feel his eyes on me. Probably curious about my attire. Definitely confused as to why I’m fishing for grocery bags on my front porch.” 

*** 

I warned you, you will be left asked for more. Well if you are, I have great news for you. I am giving away a copy of Under the Rose-Tainted Skies by Louise Gornall. UK Only. Enter away.

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 Many other blogs participating in this blog tour, so nothing is stopping you visiting them and finding out more about Under The Rose-Tainted Skies.  

Review: Evernight (Darkest London #5) by Kristen Callihan

Toe curling romance which will leave you breathless

Title: Evernight
Series: Darkest London
Author: Kristen Callihan
Publisher: Piatkus, UK
My ratings: 5 out of 5 stars
Released: 26th August, 2014
Being quite particular about my Paranormal Romances, every time I pick a Darkest London Book, I know I will enjoy it. Kristen Callihan is my auto buy author and her Darkest London Books are PNR gems. (Read my review of Firelight, Moonglow and Shadowdance here, here and here)

Evernight is no different. Holly Evernight is a SOS operative with a genius and inventive mind. But her past catches up with her in the form of Will, the man whose heart she replaced with one of her inventions. While she is suffering from the affects of her abduction in the previous book, the deranged Will is determined to kill her. With a set up like this, how could I not be invested in this book.

This couple had been hinted in the previous book and even then I was rather intrigued by Will, the Sanguine Demon. Needless to say that he completely won me over in Evernight. He had a dirty mind and even dirtier tongue. Someone like him paired with the prim and composed Holly, promised to have fire and it delivers. I loved the fact that the only way Will could stave his madness by physically touching Holly. Ha! From the get go we had a touchy feel-y couple who almost hated each other. Filled will palpable sexual tension which will have you licking your lips, Evernight was extremely enjoyable.

I am amazed at how deftly Kristen Callihan has expanded the Darkest London world. It is even more incredible that it all started with a mysterious man with a mask. Archer will forever be my favourite hero written by her, even if Will came close, Archer will always have a special place in my heart.

If you a fan of Paranormal Romance, the Darkest London series is a must read. In fact if you haven't read a single book in this series I would ask if you have been living under a stone? Evernight has toe curling romance, awe inspiring world building and character who are not only complex but broken and real. Do yourself a favour and pick this series.

Review copy provided by the publisher

Review: Paper Butterflies by Lisa Heathfield

Raw and powerful, this story will stay with you for a long time

Title: Paper Butterflies
Author: Lisa Heathfield
Publisher: Electric Monkey, UK
My ratings: 5 out of 5 stars
Released: 30th June, 2016
R eading Seed by Lisa Hetfield had been an experience and an eye opener for me. Tugging at my heart string the ending had left me wanting more. So I went in to Paper butterflies with a little trepidation and hope that she will blow my socks off with her writing. And I’m pleased to report she successfully does.

Paper Butterflies is the story of June who lives with her step mother and stepsister along with her busy father. On the surface it may look like a happy family, but it’s hiding dark secrets just under its surface. Amongst it all June’s ray of light in her life is Blister, her secret friend who belongs only to her and is untainted by her life.

I adored this book, in a way even more than Seed. It is clear that Lisa Heathfeild is coming into her own with her writing because each book is getting better than the last. I left the premise vague as I believe some of the emotions you feel from the plot is derived from the slow unveiling of June’s life.

Paper Butterflies is not for the faint hearted as it deal of a lot of issues life, racism, abuse, bullying and neglect. At many instances I found myself tearing up and getting angry, balling my fists and ready to exact some revenge on June’s behalf. I’m a person with coloured skin but fortunately I have never experienced racism or bullying yet.

But what is so special about this book you ask as there are a dime a dozen books with address similar themes you ask? Well, it’s the authors writing. She writes with such gentleness for her characters that I feel, she genuinely cares about them. Horrific events may occur to these characters but not once do I feel that the author is using it as a plot device instead she imbibes them with so much innocence despite the cruelty around them that it tears the reader apart. I truly feel that she is an expert in ‘showing’ instead of ‘telling’ and that is what digs a hole in your heart.

Overall, a fabulous, heart wrenching, throat clogging emotional storying which hits you where it hurts. A must read for anyone and everyone.

Review copy provided by Electric Monkey via NetGalley Releases on the 30th June, 2016

Review: The Problem With Forever by Jennifer L. Armentrout

Gut wrenchingly beautiful

Title: The Problem with Forever
Author: Jennifer L . Armentrout
Publisher: Mira Ink, UK
My ratings: 4 out of 5 stars
Released: 1st June, 2016
T
he Problem with Forever is the story of Mallory and Rider. Having been grown up together as foster kids in a house where they were regularly abused and Rider was the one friend Mallory relied on. He saved her time and time again, getting the beatings himself, but saving Mallory each time. However, the two kids are separated and with a stroke of luck, Mallory is snow is a loving family who have adopted her. Now she is ready to finally start school again but fate has other plans and she ends up meeting Rider again on her first day at school. Now that they have reunited, how will Mallory and Rider’s lives pan out from this moment on.

As far as foraying into YA contemporary books goo, it was a good attempt. With a solid plot with characters which grow through the course of the book. The plot never slowed for me and Mallory’s struggle with herself felt genuine and real to me.

While the whole abused foster kids struggling to cope as teenagers premise sounds familiar if not clichéd, the author still managed to keep my attention in the book. It was not simply about what had happened to these children but how they slowly growing up and getting over what was done to them. While some tragic events happened I felt that not only Mallory but Rider did a whole lot of maturing.

Jennifer L Armentrout writes sexual tension like no other and The Problem with Forever was no exception. On a side note, what is the trend with strange character names? Who is called Rider these days? Unless, I’m totally out of it? Also, there is also a prospective romance between Ainsley and Hector which I am curious about.

Over all, it was a solid, heart-warming contemporary romance book, which despite having the neglected foster kids arc, managed to hook me in to the very last minute.

Releases on the 1st of June, 2016 

Review copy provided by Mira Ink via NetGalley

Review: The Taming of the Drew by Stephanie Kate Strohm

A light, fun read, perfect for summer.

Title: The Taming of the Drew
Author: Stephanie Kate Strohm
Publisher: Sky Pony Press
My ratings: 3 out of 5 stars
Released: 5th April, 2016
Ihonestly requested this book because I loved the cover and the premise seemed entertaining. And I'm pleased to say that's exactly what you get. Cass loves acting and performing. When she gets the chance she goes on a summer camp/ stage performance stint on Shakespeare's Taming of the Shrew.

I adored how the writer was able to recreate the story by Shakespeare and build it within the modern world. With the progression of the stage performance the romance between Cass and Drew develops. They have a bad start. Cass thinks that Drew is a a horrid piece of work,obnoxious and annoying, so to teach him a lesson, she decides
to re-enact the play she is doing in real life and Tame Drew. However, fate has other plans and soon Cass' feelings towards Drew changes.

It was a light, fun and entertaining read. It did not delve into anything deep but that's what I was looking for at that time.It was hilarious at some points and had me chuckling away.

Over all, a sweet read which will make the time fly and make your heart lighter.

Review copy provided by the publisher via NetGalley

Review: Flamecaster (Shattered Realms #1) by Cinda Williams Chima

A treat for any fantasy fan.

Title: Flamecaster
Series: Shattered Realms
Author: Cinda williams Chima
Publisher: HarperCollins, USA
My ratings: 4 out of 5 stars
Released: 5th April, 2016
After reading so many reviews about Cinda Williams Chima, I was on tenterhooks to find out what the fuss was about. Flamecaster is a spin off series from her hugely popular Seven Realms series. Unfortunately this ignorant and busy reader hasn't had the time to read it. In fact this was the first time I've ever heard of it.

Regardless, I started this book with high hopes and was pleasantly surprised at the writing and the plot. The book starts with some shocking events (especially for fans of the Seven Realms) in our protagonists young lives which shapes them as young adults. Ash is determined to assassinate the King and Jenna is desperately trying to hold the rebellion against the King. The story is more complicated than that but it was not boring one single point.

The world building is all consuming and has all the hallmarks of a seasoned writer who knows it inside out. The characters multifaceted which kept the story moving. I was also surprised how much I was enjoying the book even without the essential (at least for me) romance. In fact my main complaint is about the romance. I'm sorry to say that it has insta-love of the worst kind. Believe it or not they were kissing by their second meeting! That had me shaking my head as I did not expect an acclaimed author taking that route. I felt they had absolute no chemistry. In fact I felt that Ash and Lila had more chemistry.

All over it is a treat for any fantasy fans with plenty of fantasy elements, evil kings, mysterious foreign ambassador, assassins parading as healers, mages and dragons.

Review copy provided by the publisher, HarperCollins

Review: And I Darken (The Conquerors Saga #1) by Kristen White

Welcome a new breed of YA heroine

Title: And I Darken
Series: The Conquerors Saga
Author: Kristen White
Publisher: Penguin Random House, UK
My ratings: 5 out of 5 stars
Released: 7th July, 2016
A And I Darken, is one of those rare breed of YA stories that makes you sit up and pay attention. Set in Eastern Europe in a time where not many books are set, it is more of a re-imagining of historical events than actual fantasy.

Imagine if Vlad the Impaler was not a man but a woman. How would the events unfold. We have Lada who is brutal, hard and vicious. And a delightful main character. I love this trend of dark heroines which brings a new flavour of heroines who are not just kick ass but are harsh and not afraid of embracing the darker side of life.

However, this story is not simply about Lada, but also follows her younger brother, Radu who is everything that Lada is not. Their relationship between them is convoluted and complex. Their love hate relationship had me on tenterhooks. Bring in Mehmed. Another complexity to these three peoples relationship and it is a recipe for the most festering, gritty and tortuous relationship I have ever read.

The story was a car crash I could not stop reading. The fierce wild Rada opposite the delicate, sly Radu set in an ever changing world of new religion and kingdoms, their abandonment shaped them as children and love and hatred kept changing them as adults.

This book explored so many aspects of life in the 500 years ago. What it means to be a woman? Is being physically strong the only way you can be powerful? Can you fight battles from court rooms? And what does it even mean to be an emperor? We had Rada hating her gender and trying her best to remove any form of feminity and loved that she discovers that sometimes being a women is how you fight your battles. While Radu was struggling with his own identity, his faith and his loyalties.

I hated the self-righteous Mehmed and I cannot explain the details without giving spoilers. What I can say is that this is one of the must read YA releases this summer, pushing the boundaries of YA story telling which will have you transfixed to the pages.

Review copy provided by the publisher, Penguin Random House, UK

Review: A Court of Mist and Fury (A Court Of Thorns and Roses #2) by Sarah J. Maas

Heart breaking romance and evocative world building

Title: A Court of Mist and Fury
Author: Sarah J Maas
Series: A Court of Thorns and Roses
Publisher: Bloomsbury Books, UK
My ratings: 3 out of 5 stars
Released: 2nd May , 2016
This is going to be my difficult review to date. And furthermore, this will contain spoilers for the previous book and this book. So if you don’t want to be spoilt, look away now.This could have possibly been the best book I've ever read but I have such mixed feelings about the events that took place in this book.

So in this edition, our newly changed Fae, Feyre is back in Spring Court but still reeling from the events in ACOTAR. She is suffering from PTSD and unfortunately so is Tamlin. While they are suffering the threat of Rhys coming to make good on this bargain with Feyre looms over them.

*Start of Rant (spoilers ahead)*

Right now comes the rant, so while Feyre and Tamlin are struggling, instead on talking they start drifting away. Feyre being the whiny person she is, starts resenting Tamlin his happiness of being reunited with his family and friends. He tries to protect her from dangers around her, which I admit he goes about the wrong way of doing, pisses Feyre off and she decides to leave for the Night Court.

My rant aside, the rest of book from this point is beautiful. I think S. J Maas is an author who really listens to her readers and tries to fulfil their requests. Unfortunately in this case, she changed the love interest. I had suspected something like this may be pulled off in this series as hints were scattered in the first book, but the way it was done, so quick and brutal that it left me feeling jarred. In the book, it occurs in the course of 5 months but while reading the book, it all happens in the first 15% of the book. For readers who loved ACOTAR, which was more romance than fantasy and especially if you reread it before ACOMAF, then it hurts. S. J Mass sold the whole story of the first book on the romance between Tamlin and Feyre and suddenly both of them behaving so out of character was not only disappointing but made me angry. SO angry that I had to stop reading for 2 days to give myself time to get in terms with it.

ACOTAR was sold to me as the TRUE LOVE story based on the Beauty and the Beast and it was delivered. Then it takes a U turn and goes in a completely new direction. Needless to say, I was really annoyed. In fact I was more than annoyed. Secondly , the new love interest is portrayed in a holier than thou light and it takes away all that mystery and edge that I loved in the first place. Worst of all, it was achieved but putting the first guy in a negative light. This is what annoyed me the most. Why does Tamlin have to be suddenly the bad guy? Why can’t they just drift away rather than make Tamlin act in way he never would have! At one point, I was ready to give up but with the hype surrounding it, I gave it a try and didn’t regret it.

*Rant Over*

It was everything and more I could have asked in a fantasy adventure. It was so beautifully written, with nee exciting characters and old characters given new dimension. Rhys was portrayed in a completely new light and the romance of utterly toe tingling. The chemistry between Rhys and Feyre was OFF. THE. CHARTS. The flirtations, the sexual tension, the interaction, the little notes, I died with pleasure each time (even if a little part felt unfaithful to Tamlin).

The new characters introduced added a wonderful layer to the story and as the story unfold, so does Feyre’s world and the Fearie World unveils more of it’s secrets. I also enjoyed how much more background information was included giving every character nuances which were lacking in the previous book.

If I’m honest most of the book lacked a solid plot and until the very end, not much really happens unless you count the amazing sex scenes. Yes, ACOMAF is not a YA and I’d definitely call it NA. S. J Mass outdid herself.

Regardless of the above issues and Feyre’s annoying habit of changing her mind and turning Rhys into another tortured hero who needs the right woman, the book was fabulous. It was excellent, addictive, exciting and delicious. It was book which compelled me to keep reading and while I wasn’t I occupied my dreams. How I wish, Tamlin was not declared the ‘True Love’ in ACOTAR.

ACOMAF is a must read for all fantasy fans. Hell, it’s a must read for all reader who love a great story which will have your running to the bookstore to the next book.

Review copy provided by the publisher, Bloomsbury Books, UK

Blog Tour: Resurgence (Silver Blackthorn Trilogy #3) by Kerry Wilkinson

The finale which will leave you asking for more

Title: Resurgence
Series: Silver Blackthorn
Author: Kerry Wilkinson
Publisher: Pan Macmillan, UK
My ratings: 4 out of 5 stars
Released: 5th May, 2016
A fter being impressed by the first two books in the Silver Blackthorn Trilogy, I was really looking forward the finale of this action packed, thrilling adventure.Read my review and blour tours for Reckoning and Renegade here, here and here.

The events in Renegade had the set up for Resurgence pat down and it was a fast paced adventure. Silver becomes the unlikely hero of these subjugated people while she is internally struggling with her own role in this rebellion. Her life has changed so much and it is evident as we see lots of character development.

What I enjoy most about this series has always been the friendships between the teens who suffered under the deranged king and his castle. Not just the friendships, but the relationships good or bad are nuanced and layered and a treat to read.

Some dystopian authors shy away from brutality and this fails to convince of the unfairness of a cruel regime. But I think this series is not only brutal but it encapsulates the misery and suffering of people so well, that the reader really starts rooting for this rag tag bunch of kids.

Of course, there is a vague love triangle but I was sure from the start, who the eventual winner of Silver’s heart was.

Kerry’s writing has always been spot on and he is quite clever with his plot devices and I thoroughly enjoyed this book. I will definitely recommend this series for readers who love dystopia and looking for a fix.

Review copy provided by the publisher, PanMacmillan, UK.

To celebrate this blog tour, I am able to give away 3 sets of the entire Silver Blackthorn Trilogy. Yes people, that 3 sets of 3 books for 3 winners! All you have to do is enter via the Rafflecoptor widget below. This giveaway if UK only, and end 22nd of May. Visit me on Instgram and Twitter for more chances of winning. Feast your eyes on this beautiful copy of Resurgence.

Photo credit: Escapism Fanatic on Instagram

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Blog Tour: The Winner's Kiss (The Winner's Trilogy #3) by Marie Rutkoski

A truly heart rendering romance with tension and thrills aplenty

Title: The Winner’s Kiss
Series: The Winner’s Trilogy
Author: Marie Rutkoski
Publisher: Bloomsbury Kids, UK
My ratings: 5 out of 5 stars
Released: 24th March, 2016
S ince the day I read Marie Rutkoski’s The Winner’s Curse, I knew all her books were going to turn out as gems. I am smitten with this series and all her books in this series simply too good to be missed.

As this is the last book in this trilogy, the stakes are high and the tension is intense. With the ending like in The Winner’s Crime, I was hanging on edge for The Winner’s Kiss. I am pleased to say that this book was one of the best out of the Trilogy. It was beautifully written and the plotting was perfection.

One of the strengths of this book is its main protagonist Kestrel. Set in an imaginary waring world but with no magic or fantasy elements, I never thought I will enjoy a heroine who couldn’t fight in an essentially fantasy story. Smart and beautiful, I love the fact that even if she cannot fight, she can still defeat her enemies with just her wits. She goes to hell and back and yet her inner courage shines through.

Her romance with Arin is beautiful and touching. While the first book was romance focused and the second book more about Kestrel’s life at court and The Winner’s Kiss has equal measures of romance and action.

I’ll admit it’s a long book, and usually long books give me hives but on this occasion I wanted even more. I adore how Rutkoski uses such gentle approach to storytelling. A little is always more and I simply couldn’t get enough of Arin’s and Kestrel’s interactions like an artist’s soft brush strokes coaxing colour on to his painting. On the action front, I cannot tell you how good the climax was. The interchanging scenes between Kestrel and Arin struck all the right cords for me. Each of them facing their enemies when the consequences of losing were dire.

Overall, this book is utterly unmissable. With characters that will stay with you, plenty of plotting and scheming, a truly heart rendering romance and tension and thrills aplenty. I whole heartedly recommend this book. Don’t think twice, just try this book!

As part of a blog tour, I’m pleased to say I have 3 copies of The Winner’s Kiss to giveaway. Enter via the Rafflecopter below or alternatively go to my Instagram or Twitter for an extra chance to win. UK only. Ends 15/04.

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Blog Tour: The Moment of Letting Go by J. A Redmerski

Slow and steady romance which warms your heart

Title: The Moment of Letting Go
Author: J A Redmerski
Publisher: Piatkus Books, UK
My ratings: 4 out of 5 stars
Released: 3rd September, 2015
This is my first book by J. A Redmerski, off whom I had heard nothing but praises for. Her other NA novels have a fan following and I was going into The Moment of Letting Go with the same mind set.

Sienna is a wedding planner and on her holiday she meets Luke who is s a surfing instructor. Attraction blooms and before she knows it Sienna is extending her holiday and shacking up with Luke.

This book had such an easy going pace. Not all love stories have to have a whirlwind romance. Some take a natural course where people get to know each other slowly and see where their feelings take them.

For some people, it may not be what they expect from a new adult romance as it didn’t have annoying douche male characters or the ’innocent’ female protagonist. Instead we have two people getting to know each, tentatively following their hearts and falling in love.

I think, The Moment of Letting Go is a sweet, coming of age story about two very different people falling in love and making you smile as you are fondly reminded of how you fell in love. It is a perfect beach or a holiday book where the characters explore the beautiful locales in Hawaii and discover themselves at the same time.

ARC received by Piatkus Books, UK 

Below, check out the blogs which are participating in the UK Blog Tour of The Moment of Letting Go 

Cover Reveal

THIS IS ONE MOMENT by Mila Gray

I'm so pleased to be able to participate in the cover reveal of Mila Grey's new book, This is One Moment.

This book is set for release this year. I cannot wait to read. What do you think guys? I love this cover and it conveys so much passion and emotion.

Review: Painted Faces by L. H. Cosway

Unique, sexy, unconventional with shiver inducing romance

Title: Painted Faces
Author: L. H. Cosway
Publisher: Self Published
My ratings: 4.5 out of 5 stars
Releases: 16th December, 2012
P ainted Faces has been on my TBR for a long time when it took over Goodreads by storm. Finally I gave in and immersed my self in the engrossing and encompassing story the L. H. Cosway built.

Freda lives in Dublin, works at a charity shop and bakes cupcakes for am living. She is completely happy in her life until one day Nicholas moves into the apartment next door. Handsome, charming, and debonair, she is intrigued by him. But Nicholas has another side. He cross dresses as a girl and performs on a stage. Before Freda knows it, she is swept in Nicholas life full of high heels, glittery dresses and wigs.

Painted Faces was a beautiful love story in which love grows out of a friendship and acceptance. I think that is the most important message that can be taken from this book. The moment Nicholas literally bumps with Freda in the stairway, we know that nothing is going to be the same again. The attraction between them is instant but it simmers and intensifies before both do anything about it. The sexual tension is thick and I loved how both of them were struggling to keep away from each other but failed.

The most unique thing about this book is that Nicholas is a cross dressing guy. Hunky, muscular alpha males are a staple as romance novel heroes but not Nicholas. He likes his dresses and his trousers alike. Cosway wrote him beautifully that even if the side characters and even Freda at that start have difficulty assessing his sexuality, there is not doubt in the readers and (later Freda) that he is all male. Even in his get up as Viv, he still felt male and his sexual appeal never diminishes. Now that is what I call good writing!

This book tells the readers to accept different kinds of people in the world. Be it slightly chubby (not skinny) Freda or the cross dressing hero that beauty is in the eye of the beholder.

I adored the banter between Freda and Nicholas which was intense, fun and sexy. However the last bit dragged a little and felt unnecessary. Also there was a scene where a disliked character has a threesome which is criticised by the whole party of people. It felt out of character to look down on someone who had a threesome when they themselves were dating someone unusual.

My little tripe aside, I loved this book. It was fast paced, intense and sexy. The banter was a thing of beauty and the tension in the air was gave me shivers. Highly recommended for contemporary romance readers.

Review: A Court of Thorns and Roses (ACOTAR #1) by Sarah J. Maas

Read the next phenomenon in YA/NA

Title: A Court of Thorns and Roses
Series: : A Court of Thron and Roses
Author: Sarah J. Maas
Publisher:Bloomsbury Childrens Books, UK
My ratings: 5 out of 5 stars
Releases: 7th May, 2010
Over the course of a few years Sarah J Maas has become something of an auto buy author for me. Which is rare as not every book turned out by YA writers appeal to me but I think Sarah has a skill to keep churning out which hits just the right spots for me. Her Throne of Glass series has become an annual celebration for me where I can immerse myself in Celeana’s world. I adore that series (Read my reviews of Throne of Glass, Crown of Midnight, Heir of Fire, The Assassin’s Blade) and cannot wait for Queen of Shadows coming in September. When I was given a copy of A Court of Thorns and Roses I was beyond excited but I had been saving it for a better time. And let me tell you the wait was worth it. Now I’m bummed that I don’t have the next book on me. As with any 5 star review the following may be filled with fangirling and dispersed occasional with squeals. Now that we have dispersed with warnings I can follow through my review.

Feyre lives in a small little village on the bordering human and faerie territories. She hunts in the nearby woods and provided for her family. While she has heard of the elusive faeries but has never set her eyes on them until one night when her family is nearly starving in the winter that she spots a wolf that may be fae and manages to bring it down. But a few days later she is taken away by a wild looking beast snarling at her door for killing a fae and she is taken to replace his life. She is to stay in Fae territories and live the rest of her life with the beastly Tamlin, and his unwelcoming friend. While she is served by an array of servants she is sill a prisoner in a guilder cage. However danger is not far away and soon she may be having feeling for her captor no prisoner should have.

I can admit that I’m not giving justice to the plot but believe me people it is awesome. A Court of Thorns and Roses (known as ACOTAR from hence forth) is a fairy tale retelling of the beauty and the beast. I love love love fairy tales and the combination of fantasy, action and beautiful writing made this book an instant favourite.

It has been a while since I have found a series which I can unashamedly fangirl about and this book is it. Feyre is such a well thought out heroine. She is self sacrificing and lives with her lazy and deplorable sister. When she first arrives at Tamlin’s Manor she is subdued and quiet but she finds her inner iron core soon enough. Her chemistry with Tamlin was off the charts and there romance was so, so sweet. It was slow burning, swoon worthy and honest to god made my heart skip a few beats. The Fire Night scene was unforgettable ands sexy as hell. This not a YA book. Not, it is anew adult and Sarah shows how New Adult is done.

There is character development where pretty much each and every character learns and grows from the experiences into his books and learns about each other.

The writing is excellent and the imagery used by Sarah J Mass is lush, beautiful and absolutely stunning. On a side note, do check out her Pinterest Boards to get an even better visual of her imagery. Like all her books, ACOTOR has a slow start and some people may even find it dragging towards the middle but I find that the action catches up to you quickly enough and in all fairness I am too busy exulting in the story to have noticed the slow pace. This book may be slightly long for your average YA/NA book but in my opinion is was worth it. In fact I want the next book even longer. The longer the better.

Tamlin is simply swoon worthy and he is everything I could ask for. He is mysterious, determined, noble and oh so smouldering. I wanted more of him. Also to mention Lucien whose banter with Feyre was spot on and provided this weird dynamic which I loved. What I should mention at this point is that Rhysand or Rhys as he is known is another character who is quite mysterious and dangerous I thoroughly enjoyed the role he played towards the end. As we see more of him towards the end, he leaves a very strong impression. I know in my bones and there is more for us in store about Rhys in Book 2 and I simply cannot wait for it.

Over all I predict great things for this series. I know that this series is going to become a phenomenon. There is no doubt in my mind that this book will rock great many readers. Not only does it appeal to the girly side of me which likes fairy tales, jewellery and dresses but also my blood thirsty side which demands blood, grime and body parts being flung about.

A Court of Thorns and Roses was intense, captivating, sensual, and it will make you obsessive over it.

Now that I have read the advanced copy I have an even longer wait for the next book which comes out next year. This was a book which left be hugging the book and heaving a giant sigh with a ginormous grin of satisfaction on my face. An absolute must read! I want MAORR!!!

Releasing 7th May. 2015. Mark the date on your calenders!

Review copy provided by Bloomsbury Childrens Books, UK

Audiobook Review: The Assassin's Blade (Throne of Glass #0.1-0.5) by Sarah J Maas

Majestic, beautiful and gut wrenching

Title: Assassin’s Blade
Series: Throne of Glass
Author: Sarah J Maas
Publisher: Bloomsbury, UK and Audible Books
My ratings: 5 out of 5 stars
Released: 13th March, 2014
The Assassin’s Blade is a collection of novella set before the amazing series, Throne of Glass start. It consists of five stories which follows Celaena’s story on how she got to the salt mines in the first place.

If you are new to this series you don’t have to start this series from The Assassin’s Blade before reading Throne of Glass but it is a fabulous edition of the stories and it is a wonder to Celaena in all her glory before she is picked up my Chaol at Endovier.

I realise that when the early books were released some readers had some reservations about Celaena’s claim to be the calibre of assassin she was portrayed as. This book blows that into smithereens as we get to read about how Celaana’s life was as Arobynn’s prodigy.

Best of all it had Sam Cortland. I’ll fore-warn that the last novella The Assassin and The Empire would require a box of tissue. It took me through a roller-coaster of emotion from hope to devastation to anger. I was utterly furiously on Celaena’s behalf.

I thoroughly enjoyed this book with it various novellas and I have a feeling some of them will be coming back in the future books of Throne of Glass. I adore whatever S J Mass as she has talent to somehow her readers able to connect and root for her characters. Moreover after the events of Assassin’s Blade I’m afraid for Celaena and also for me as Mass is not afraid to take risks with her characters and I don’t think my heart will be able to take any more after Sam Cortland.

Mass knows how to write her male protagonists and time and time again she keeps churning out fabulous ones like Sam, Chaol, Dorian, Rowan, Tamlin, Lucien, Rhys. Sigh. I suppose you get my point.

I can whole heartedly recommend this book as it made me tear up in the train which hasn’t happened in a long time. The narrator Elizabeth Evans did a great job at bringing Celaena to life with the right mix of entitlement, arrogance and emotion.

This book and this series is majestic, fabulous, and non-stop action. If you haven’t read this series I’d ask you to drop everything and start this now. It just that good.

You can read my reviews of Throne of Glass, Crown of Midnight and Heir of Fire by clicking on them.

Review: Four Nights With The Duke (Desperate Duchesses #8) by Eloisa James

Sensuous, romantic and funny.

Title: Four Nights With The Duke
Series: Desperate Duchesses
Author: Eloisa James
Publisher: Piatkus Books, UK
My ratings: 5 out of 5 stars
Releases: 31st March, 2015
W hen Four Nights With The Duke fell into my lap, I could not have been more excited. Historical Romance is my guilty pleasure and it never fails to entertain me. In addition, Eloisa James is a fantastic author whose writing I’ve always enjoyed. Needless to say, I couldn’t start reading this bad boy quickly enough.

So we have our heroine Emelia who is ready to blackmail the Duke of Pindar into marrying her in order to save her orphaned nephew. Evander thinks that she is acting under her affections for him declared when they were teenagers. So he agrees under the condition that he will spend only 4 nights with her and only when she begs it off him.

With a premise like this how could I not love Four Nights with The Duke? Emelia was an author and her perspective of event were coloured by the writing side of her personality. It was hilarious how she interpreted real life events and modified them to write her stories. Vander on the other hands starts of as your quintessential romance novel duke,. Basically he is dark, broody, rough around the edges and utterly swoon worthy. However as the story moves on he turns out to be much more. As he falls passionately in love with Mia, we get to see how his view on Mia keeps changing.

Futhermore I loved the narration which was filled with humour, reminiscent of Julia Quinn. The ending was quite emotional and I’m glad Mia stood up for self.

Overall, For Night With The Duke was sensuous, funny, romantic and heart-warming tale. With its adorable main characters and solid set of side charterers, Four Night With The Duke is a winner for sure.

Review copy provided by Piatkus Books  

Releases 31st March, 2015 in the UK

 

Review: Red Queen (Red Queen #1) by Victoria Aveyard

Don’t judge the book by its cover

Title: Red Queen
Series: Red Queen
Author: Victoria Aveyard
Publisher: Orion, UK
My ratings: 2 out of 5 stars
Released: 10th February, 2015
Victoria Aveyard’s Red Queen had been on my radar since I laid my eyes on the exquisite cover and intriguing synopsis. Unfortunately, that is where all the good things end about this book.

Mare Barrows lives in a world which is divided by the colour of your blood. The royals and the aristocrats have silver blood which gives then super powers while the commoner like Mare have red blood. However one day completely by chance it is discovered that Mare, who is a Red has a power like a Silver. Soon after she finds herself engaged to the younger Prince and living at the Palace. Jealousy, rivalry, first love and rebellion arise and it seems that the red blooded Mare is destined for more.

A poor commoner who turns out to be ‘special’ who goes and lives in the Palace. Sounds familiar right? Well, it reminds me of The Selection but familiarity aside, I found Red Queen boring. While the premise excited me at the start but I found myself unmoved by Mare. She was foolish, conceited, selfish and somewhat annoying. I found it hard to sympathize with her or even connect with her character.

The romance was cheesy and I found it hard to like the love interest Cal. I like my YA boys to be a little bad and the straight-laced Cal proved bland and boring to me. In fact he was already engaged to Evangeline who was hated Mare through-out the story.

The plotting and the rebellion felt forced to me and the fact that Mare could not trust anyone, made it absolutely clear that she was going to be betrayed and I knew straight away who that will be.

I had no problems with the writing as it was ok even if the plot was slow. The world was slightly under developed but that can be expanded in the forthcoming books.

It was the story and the plot which failed to impress me. The characters and the story on which the whole book and the series is hinged simply did not hook me and I found myself uninterested and indifferent.

I was disappointed with my reaction to this book as I really wanted to like this book and the raving 5 star reviews made me feel that I book will be The Book for me in 2015.

I’m sure other readers will enjoy the story and the dystopian with a Cinderella type transformation of the heroine but it wasn’t for me.

  Review copy provided by Orion via NetGalley.

Review: The Winner's Crime by Marie Rutkoski (The Winner's Trilogy)

Schemes, politics, war and young love. This series is epic

Title: The Winner’s Crime
Series: The winner’s Trilogy
Author: Marie Rutkoski
Publisher: Bloomsbury Children’s Book, UK
My ratings: 4.5 out of 5 stars
Released: 12th March, 2015
T he Winner’s Curse last year was a delightful surprise as to how much I enjoyed it. It was not just a book with a pretty cover but had actual substance in it. With The Winner’s Curse ending with a cliffhanger (sort of) I couldn’t get my hands on a copy of The Winner’s Crime soon enough.

Arin is still reeling with the ramification of Kestrel’s announcement and Kestrel is in the capital playing the good bride to be of the country’s Prince. Matters are more complicated now with Herran is a free country but is still facing huge problems and Kestrel struggling with her life at the palace. It still doesn’t stop her from helping Arin’s cause through any means possible. Arin still thinks Kestrel is a traitor and trying to come to terms with. Palace politics are rampant and the King is a new breed of evil and his scheming seems to have another level of deviousness.

Kestrel continues to be a wonderfully complicated character. She may not have the skills to fight her enemies but why use brawn when your brains will do. Her inner struggle between her loyalties to her own country and her sense of right and wrong, makes for wonderful inner dialogues. Her relationship with her father is still so convoluted and the way they unravel towards the end was heart breaking.

Arin is so perfect for Kestrel. He is also torn between his faith on Kestrel and his loyalties towards his cause. It gives him so much depth but in believing that Kestrel betrayed him, it makes for great angst for this reader. Arin and Kestrel’s romance breaks my heart and one perfect scene was so utterly sweet and heart breaking but it managed to capture all right emotion and turmoil.

Since it is the middle book in a trilogy it did suffer slightly from the second book syndrome but it was still epic. It set the stage for the final book and the way it ended had my heart in my throat and I cannot fathom what will happen next.

I really enjoyed The Winner’s Crime for not only its clever plotting, realistic characters and this sense of dread that things were going to get worse. This series is not to be missed by any YA fan as it delivers each time. I cannot wait for the next book and what is in store for Kestrel and Arin. I just hope they get their happily ever after.

Released 12th March, 2015, grab your copy now!

Review copy provided by Bloomsbury Childrens Book, UK via NetGalley

Waiting On Wednesday

Waiting On" Wednesday is a weekly event, hosted on Breaking the Spine, that spotlights upcoming releases that we're eagerly anticipating.

My Pick this week is;

END OF DAYS (Penryn and the End of Days #3)by Susan Ee

After a daring escape from the angels, Penryn and Raffe are on the run. They’re both desperate to find a doctor who can reverse the twisted changes inflicted by the angels on Raffe and Penryn’s sister. As they set off in search of answers, a startling revelation about Raffe’s past unleashes dark forces that threaten them all.

 When the angels release an apocalyptic nightmare onto humans, both sides are set on a path toward war. As unlikely alliances form and strategies shift, who will emerge victorious? Forced to pick sides in the fight for control of the earthly realm, Raffe and Penryn must choose: Their own kind, or each other?



To say that I'm excited about this book will be an understatement. I adore this series and CANNOT wait to get my hands on this. The first book Angelfall is still one of my favourite book of all times and the last book which kept me awake until it was morning. The second book, World After was just as good and I'm sure End Of Days will blow my mind.

If you haven't picked up this book, then stop reading and start this series soon. You'll be begging for the end Of Days before you know it.
Me and a few friends have already started a re read of the series so, join us if you like.

Releases on 12th May, 2015  by Hodder and Stoughton


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Cover Reveal: Hidden Huntress (The Malediction Trilogy #2) by Danielle L. Jensen

neO of the best Fantasy YA books that came out last year was Danielle L. Jenson's Stolen Songbird which was everything you could wish for in a YA fantasy. It had romance, excellent world building and nail biting excitement and the way it ended had me screaming for the next book. (Read my review here.) It was the only eventual survivor after it's original publisher Strange Chemistry closed down. Now it has been taken over by Angry Robot Books and turns out that the publication of the second book is not too far off. I'm pleased to reveal the cover of Hidden Huntress, which follows the next chapter after the events in Stolen Songbird. So without much ado, feast you eyes on this beauty and squeal for the Hidden Huntress. I absolutely love it!

HIDDEN HUNTRESS (The Malediction Trilogy #2) by Danielle L. Jensen

Sometimes, one must accomplish the impossible.

Beneath the mountain, the king’s reign of tyranny is absolute; the one troll with the capacity to challenge him is imprisoned for treason. Cécile has escaped the darkness of Trollus, but she learns all too quickly that she is not beyond the reach of the king’s power. Or his manipulation.

Recovered from her injuries, she now lives with her mother in Trianon and graces the opera stage every night. But by day she searches for the witch who has eluded the trolls for five hundred years. Whether she succeeds or fails, the costs to those she cares about will be high.

To find Anushka, she must delve into magic that is both dark and deadly. But the witch is a clever creature. And Cécile might not just be the hunter. She might also be the hunted…

GOODREADS