Review: Forever Jack by Natasha Boyd

Forever Jack
Author: Natasha Boyd
Release Date: November 25, 2013
Publisher: Natasha Boyd
Source: Personal Copy
Review by: Nahomi

Jack Eversea's life is in ruins.

He's being threatened by the production company of his latest blockbuster movie franchise, and is on the verge of losing his entire career. He's been betrayed by the people he trusted the most, and he's realizing he may have let the only 'real' thing that's ever happened to him slip through his fingers.

And he's been powerless to stop it. Until now.

Keri Ann Butler's life changed the night she met superstar, Jack Eversea. She thought she knew a Jack that was very different to the man adored by fans the world over. In the wake of his betrayal and abandonment, Keri Ann has had to pick up and move forward with the life she was supposed to live, and has put off for far too long.

Suddenly, Jack is back, and his explanations for why he did what he did seem more and more plausible, and his declarations more seductive. But Keri Ann's career is on the rise, and being known as Jack's latest tabloid arm candy isn't on Keri Ann's career agenda, no matter how much she is attracted to him. And she's not even sure her feelings were anything more than physical, or that she can ever trust him again.

Will the spectre of Jack's past, and his public life, finally shatter them apart forever, or will they find a way to move forward together?

5 stars out of 5 stars

Oh the Feels... I signed up for the Eversea blog tour and fell in love with Keri Ann and Jack. After finishing Eversea I had to know what happened so, I immediately picked up Forever Jack and devoured it in mere hours. Oh man I was all torn up about this book. I felt like I was on an emotional roller coaster the whole time. One moment I was up then the next down; I was a wreck through the whole thing.

 I loved the storyline; the plot didn't drag at all for me this time around. I fell in love with the characters all over again. I was happy that Keri Ann pursued her dream of being an artist. I love that Keri Ann didn't let herself get swept away by all of the hype of Jack being a celebrity. She held her own and stayed firm on her resolution not to be with him as long as she could, but really its Jack so I knew she couldn't hold out for very long.

Jack is just as wonderful but even more because we get to experience the story from his point of view as well. It seemed things couldn't get any worse for him.  Jack had my heart was breaking for him left and right in this book. One of my favorite parts of this book is that it's told from dual points of view; getting both sides of the story made it feel more three-dimensional for me.  Jack had me swooning all over the place with how thoughtful and sweet he is.

 Natasha Boyd did a wonderful job creating the town of Butler Cove and its inhabitants. I want more of all of them! I was left wondering what happens with Jazz and Joey and Colt and Karina. I just want more of her wonderful stories!

Waiting on Wednesday (#60)

Waiting on Wednesday is a weekly meme, hosted by Jill at Breaking the Spine, that spotlights upcoming releases that we're eagerly anticipating.

Morning swooners!

This week pre-publication "can't wait to read" selection is:

Boomerang (#1) by Noelle August

Expected Release Date: July 15, 2014

Links: Amazon / Barnes & Noble / Goodreads

Synopsis:

The first book in a sensational New Adult trilogy from Noelle August

Welcome to Boomerang.com, the dating site for the millennial gen with its no-fuss, no-commitments matchups, and where work is steamier than any random hook-up

Mia Galliano is an aspiring filmmaker. Ethan Vance has just played his last game as a collegiate soccer star. They’re sharp, hungry for success, and they share a secret.

Last night, Ethan and Mia met at a bar, and, well . . . one thing led to another, which led to them waking up the next morning—together. Things turned awkward in a hurry when they found themselves sharing a post hookup taxi . . . to the same place: Boomerang headquarters.

What began as a powerful connection between them is treated to a cold shower courtesy of two major complications. First, Boomerang has a strict policy against co-worker dating. And second, they’re now competitors for only one job at the end of summer.

As their internships come to an end, will they manage to keep their eyes on the future and their hands off each other, or will the pull of attraction put them right back where they started?

I'm super excited about this book. I love Veronica Rossi and the fact that she has a New Adult book that she co-authored makes me giddy like a schoolgirl. I want, nay, I NEED this book. 

What are you "Waiting on?"

Review: Royally Lost by Angie Stanton

Royally Lost
Author: Angie Stanton
Release Date: May 6, 2014
Publisher: HarperCollins
Source: Edelweiss
Review by: Jenn

Dragged on a family trip to Europe’s ancient cities, Becca wants nothing more than to go home. Trapped with her emotionally distant father, over-eager stepmother, and a brother who only wants to hook up with European hotties, Becca is miserable. That is until she meets Nikolai, a guy as mysterious as he is handsome. And she unknowingly finds herself with a runaway prince.

Nikolai has everything a guy could ask for-he's crown prince, heir to the throne, and girls adore him. But the one thing he doesn't have...is freedom. Staging a coup, he flees his kingdom and goes undercover on his own European tour.

When Nikolai and Becca meet, it’s their differences that draw them together. Sparks fly as they share a whirlwind of adventures, all the while dodging his royal guard. But Becca's family vacation ends in a matter of days. Will Nikolai and Becca be forced to say goodbye forever, will his destiny catch up to him, or will they change history forever?

2 stars out of 5 stars

*I received an eARC of this book from the publisher but it did not influence this review in any way.*

I was super excited about starting this book. The synopsis totally called my attention and I couldn't wait to start it. Right from the beginning, I couldn't help but compare Nikolai to the prince from the movie The Prince and Me starring Julia Stiles. He's a womanizer and enjoys partying just like the prince in the movie, Eddie. However, that's where the similarities end. Nikolai's parent treat him like he is still in grade school and Nikolai responds by acting like a grade school boy. He decides to escape his "punishment" to teach his parents a "lesson."

I also had a hard time connecting with Becca. She's on a cruise exploring some cities in Europe with her father, stepmother, and brother and all she does is complain about how boring it is learning about the cities's history. She could care less about being in Europe and wished she was back home. I found that to be crazy talk. Every person I know who has lived in the United States would love a trip to Europe as a graduation gift. I can understand her reluctance about being on vacation with a distant father but her stepmother was nothing about excited about exploring Europe with Becca. And even if she doesn't get along with her stepmother, I would have just appreciated being able to explore Europe.

Because I had such a difficult time liking both Becca and Nikolai, I had a hard time liking the book. The story line was so cliche and predictable that I found myself rolling my eyes and scoffing at the things that happened. I really wanted to like this book but unfortunately it just didn't work out for me.

Quotes (#60)

It BEA week, you guys!!!!!!

I can't believe it finally upon us. It feels like I've been waiting for this week to get here for ages and now I don't know what to do with myself. Excuse me while I flail around.

Alrighty, I'm done (for now). Let's do some quotes then.

“Today a reader, tomorrow a leader.” - Margaret Fuller

“It is thanks to my evening reading alone that I am still more or less sane.” - W.G. Sebald, Vertigo

“Trust yourself. You know more than you think you do.” - Benjamin Spock

“I had already found that it was not good to be alone, and so made companionship with what there was around me, sometimes with the universe and sometimes with my own insignificant self; but my books were always my friends, let fail all else.” - Joshua Slocum, Sailing Alone around the World

“There is a sacredness in tears....They are the messengers of overwhelming grief, of deep contrition and of unspeakable love.” - Washington Irving

“These are the times that try men's souls.” - Thomas Paine, The American Crisis

“What a pity every child couldn't learn to read under a willow tree...” - Elizabeth George Speare, The Witch of Blackbird Pond

That's it for me for today. I leave Wednesday afternoon and I still have a bunch of stuff to get done before then. I should probably get off the internet then, right? Alright alright. I'll go be productive. Have a great week, Swooners!

Blog Tour Stop: Review - Sweet Filthy Boy by Christina Lauren

Sweet Filthy Boy
(Wild Seasons #1)
Author: Christina Lauren
Release Date: May 13, 2014
Publisher: Gallery Books
Source: Gallery Books
Review by: Jenn and Nahomi

One-night stands are supposed to be with someone convenient, or wickedly persuasive, or regrettable. They aren’t supposed to be with someone like him.

But after a crazy Vegas weekend celebrating her college graduation—and terrified of the future path she knows is a cop-out—Mia Holland makes the wildest decision of her life: follow Ansel Guillaume—her sweet, filthy fling—to France for the summer and just…play.

When feelings begin to develop behind the provocative roles they take on, and their temporary masquerade adventures begin to feel real, Mia will have to decide if she belongs in the life she left because it was all wrong, or in the strange new one that seems worlds away

Jenn's rating: 5 stars out of 5 stars

Nahomi's rating: 5 stars out of 5 stars

Our average rating: 5 stars out of 5 stars

*We received an ARC of this book from the publisher as part of blog tour but it did not influence this review in any way.*

Jenn:
I loved this book, LOVED ÍT. I know I say this after I read one of Christina Lauren's books, but I think it may be my favorite of their work so far. I was super excited when I got my hands on Sweet Filthy Boy because I've been hearing a lot about Ansel and how he compared against the Beautifuls men. After finishing up SFB, I maaaaaay have made a switcheroo in my list of favorites.

In Sweet Filthy Boy we meet Mia who is on her way to Vegas with her best girlfriends right after their college graduation. She happens upon Ansel  across a restaurant and some hot and flirty banter are exchanged along with some stuff that I will not spoil for you. At the end of their trip, not wanting to say goodbye to Mia, Ansel invites her to Paris for the summer.

I have to admit that at first I was a little apprehensive about that. I was charmed by Ansel, how can I not be, but all my rational side could think was "You've known this guy for a weekend, Mia. What are you doing flying across the country and across the Atlantic to spend the summer with a guy you barely even know?" But I didn't have to worry for long. Ansel is a French sweetheart with a filthy mouth. The way he is with Mia and his friends made it very easy to like him. Some of the stuff he would say to Mia, HO-LY.SHIT. I wouldn't even be able to form response aside from "Uhhh..dskhdckjckj." The sexy times between Mia and Ansel were definitely hot. Their chemistry and banter made the foreplay almost as hot as the actual event. There were plenty of time when I muttered how much of lucky girl Mia is because damnnn...

Mia is struggling with the decision of what she wants to do and what her father wants her to do. Being around Ansel really forces her to think about what it is that she wants out of life and what makes her happy. The way they both make each other be the best person they can be and how great they get along was so well done and made them a more relatable couple.

I loved that Mia decided to purse her dreams and that Ansel pushed her towards them. Even though they knew that pursuing her dreams might separate them, they still went forward with it. I can't wait to see how their relationship grows and progresses in the next book. Christina Lauren really outdid themselves with Sweet Filthy Boy. I loved every second of it and I can't to see what next for Harlow and Finn in Dirty Rowdy Thing.

Nahomi:
I was a little nervous when I started reading this book. I am a big fan of the Beautiful Bastard series and couldn’t for the life of me think of a way Christina Lauren could top that series. OH Man was I wrong; they have completely out done themselves with Sweet Filthy Boy! I absolutely love this story! By the second page I was hooked, Mia, Lola and Harlow’s easy banter is funny, and made me want to get to know them.

The story line completely took me by surprise; to be honest I hadn’t read the synopsis because I will pretty much read anything by Christina Lauren. I love their writing style, characters and their ability to make me feel invested in them. I was so totally immersed in Mia’s and Ansel’s story that I was useless for the past day or so it took me to read this book because I just couldn’t put it down. Vegas and Paris were the perfect backdrops for this story.

I was living vicariously through Mia…man she is one lucky lady. Ansel had me drooling for the first moment he came into the picture. Each and every moment after he just kept winning me over again and again and now I’m a big mush ball for Ansel. I can’t even describe the chemistry between these two but I will say that I love that they had to figure out a way to make things work between them. It wasn’t the usual insta-chemistry we normally see. I agree with Jenn in that I like that they were both able to do want they wanted even though what that meant for their relationship.

I don’t really want to give any spoilers because I couldn’t do this book justice with a summary. I will say this: Sweet Filthy Boy is one wild and exciting ride! The sex scenes are sooo hot that they make an active volcano seem like Antarctica in comparison. There were times when I seriously had to think of saggy old people bottoms, just so that I could cool myself down. Christina Lauren did a wonderful job writing this story. I am so excited about the rest of this series; I totally having Mia and Ansel withdrawals at the moment. This is definitely my new favorite of mine. Sweet Filthy Boy is a must read!

About the Author:

Lauren Billings (but everyone calls her Lo) has a Ph.D. in neuroscience and before she made writing her full-time job, would spend her days doing nerdy research-type things wearing a lab coat and goggles. She is silly Mommy to two littles, wife to one mountain biking homebrewing scientist, bestie to a shoe-stealer, and an unabashed lover of YA and romance.

Christina Hobbs (but you’ll always hear Lo call her PQ) used to spend her days in a junior high counseling office surrounded by teenagers. Married to the cutest boy in school, she has a thirteen year old daughter, is an unapologetic lover of boy bands and glitter, and also likes to steal Lo’s shoes.

You can follow their shenanigans at:

@lolashoes (Lauren) & @seeCwrite (Christina) on Twitter. On Tumblr! where we post kissing gifs and writerly stuff and Wattpad for short stories and sneak peeks!

For official information about their books, events, interviews, movie news and more, follow @beautifulbastrd.

Blog Tour Stop: Review + Giveaway - All Lined Up by Cora Carmack

All Lined Up
(Rusk University #1)
Author: Cora Carmack
Release Date: May 13, 2014
Publisher: William Morrow
Source: Edelweiss and InkSlinger PR
Review by: Jenn and Nahomi

New York Times and USA Today bestselling author Cora Carmack follows up her trio of hits—Losing It, Faking It, and Finding It—with this thrilling first novel in an explosive series bursting with the Texas flavor, edge, and steamy romance of Friday Night Lights.

In Texas, two things are cherished above all else—football and gossip. My life has always been ruled by both.

Dallas Cole loathes football. That's what happens when you spend your whole childhood coming in second to a sport. College is her time to step out of the bleachers, and put the playing field (and the players) in her past.

But life doesn't always go as planned. As if going to the same college as her football star ex wasn’t bad enough, her father, a Texas high school coaching phenom, has decided to make the jump to college ball… as the new head coach at Rusk University. Dallas finds herself in the shadows of her father and football all over again.

Carson McClain is determined to go from second-string quarterback to the starting line-up. He needs the scholarship and the future that football provides. But when a beautiful redhead literally falls into his life, his focus is more than tested. It's obliterated.

Dallas doesn't know Carson is on the team. Carson doesn't know that Dallas is his new coach's daughter.

And neither of them know how to walk away from the attraction they feel.

Jenn's rating: 4 stars out of 5 stars

Nahomi's rating: 5 stars out of 5 stars

Our average rating: 4.5 stars out of 5 stars

*We received an eARC of this book from the publisher and InkSlinger PR as part of blog tour but it did not influence this review in any way.*

Jenn:
I've been promoting Cora Carmack on this blog ever since she first came out with Losing It, on her own, before she was offered a contract with her current publisher, William Morrow. So you can say I'm a big fan of hers but I have a little bit of a surprising fact I would like to share with you guys: this is the first book I have actually read from Cora. Her Losing It series has been on my TBR list forever but I had yet to pick up and read her work. So I decided to remedy that when I was given the chance to be a part of this blog tour.

Right from the beginning of the first paragraph of the first chapter I was hooked. Dallas's voice is so easy to enjoy and I love her sense of humor. I love her friendship with Stella, who is her best friend. Their stamps of approval/disapproval has me thinking that it actually a pretty brilliant idea. I might have to use it myself. Carson is so smooth and swoony and I was swooning right alongside with Dallas. Especially whenever him and biceps were around. I think I have a new love and appreciation for guys who work out.

"I don't know anything about this guy except that his eyes make my mind fuzzy, and his muscled arms make my mouth water, and the things he keeps saying... they burn - beginning in my flushes cheeks, blazing through my blood, and curling between my legs until I feel like I have to squeeze them together just to keep from combusting on the spot." - Cora Carmack, All Lined Up

Holy crap

I love whenever Dallas and Carson would be together because then their bantering would begin and it would just be back and forth between them both. Their banter upped the sexual tension that they shared and it really showed how much attraction there is between them. I was cheering them on throughout the whole book.

One of my favorite thing about the book was how by the end of the book, both Carson and Dallas ended up going for what they wanted, individually. I love when books allow for characters, especially the female characters, to go for what they want individually and don't let a relationship stop them from doing it.

Cora did a wonderful job at the unresolved sexual tension (UST) between Carson and Dallas. Many time throughout the book had me wanting more and more and when either of the characters pulled back, it had me feeling frustrated for the other party. Carson and Dallas were such lovable characters that I hope to see glimpses of their lives in the next book in the series. If Cora's Losing It series is anything like All Lined Up, I can't wait to read the rest of her books.

Nahomi:
I am a fan of Cora Carmack’s writing, so I will read pretty much anything she writes. All Lined Up really hit home with me. I normally read to distract myself from my daily routine, this story did so much more than that; it gave me the motivation I needed to keep going with my insane schedule. “No Easy Day” says Coach Cole and I completely agree with him.

I loved this story from beginning to end. There isn't one bad thing I can say or nit pick at because for me this story was perfect. I loved that the main characters had insecurities and were struggling with the concept of what it means to be an adult. Dallas and Carson’s struggles made them relatable, three dimensional characters. Dallas captivated my attention and drew me into the her world and what she was experiencing. I even liked her internal monologue (which normally is difficult for me to like), it was hilarious at times and brutal at others, but it felt genuine.

Carson is a sweetheart. He’s the underdog and there is nothing bad about this very sexy, honest, and hard working guy. I totally fell for him and I love how Carson treats Dallas. Their relationship is sweet and passionate at the same time. The chemistry between Dallas and Carson is palpable through the entire story, and the sexy scenes are oh so steamy.

Their journey was touching and heart felt, by the end I was left with a feeling of hope. I was so happy to see there was an epilogue! I liked how Ms. Carmack left Dallas and Carson's story and can't wait to see if they show up in the later installments of the series. This story is a must read for me! Don't just take my word for it go and check it out.

Giveaway

a Rafflecopter giveaway

About the Author:

Cora Carmack is a twenty-something writer who likes to write about twenty-something characters. She's done a multitude of things in her life-- boring jobs (like working retail), Fun jobs (like working in a theatre), stressful jobs (like teaching), and dream jobs (like writing). She enjoys placing her characters in the most awkward situations possible, and then trying to help them get a boyfriend out of it. Awkward people need love, too. Her first book, LOSING IT, is a New York Times and USA Today bestseller.

Author Links: Website / Twitter / Facebook / Goodreads

 You can follow the rest of the tour here.

Blog Tour organized by: InkSlinger PR

Waiting on Wednesday (#59)

Waiting on Wednesday is a weekly meme, hosted by Jill at Breaking the Spine, that spotlights upcoming releases that we're eagerly anticipating.

Morning swooners!

This week pre-publication "can't wait to read" selection is:

Forever You by Allie Everhart

Expected Release Date: May 30, 2014

Links: Amazon / Barnes & Noble / Goodreads

Synopsis:


Jade and Garret have a love story like no other. They’ve survived heartache, tragedy, and numerous forces trying to tear them apart, but through it all they’ve developed a love that will endure forever. 

Now it’s time to celebrate their love with a wedding. It’s summer break and as they await the big day, Jade and Garret are living together on a beach in California with their best friends Sean and Harper right next door. 

But their summer isn’t completely carefree. Trouble erupts within the Kensington family and certain people don’t show up at the wedding. An unexpected visit from someone in Garret’s past causes stress for Jade and Garret. And planning the big event makes Harper question her future with her boyfriend, Sean. 

It’s a summer filled with fun, romance, love, and friendship mixed with a little family drama and a touch of mystery. But most of all, it’s a summer Jade and Garret will never forget and the perfect start to their new life together.

I am so in love with this series! I was so excited when I found out there was a 5th book coming out that I squealed! I love the writing and the characters, well I just love all of it. I can't wait to see what happens next with Jade and Garret!

Quotes (#59)

Morning Swooners, 

Like always I have a ton of things going on this week. But every Sunday I still dread Monday's arrival! I hope you all have a great week!

"When life gives you lemons, squirt someone in the eye."

~Cathy  Guisewite

"I consider conversations with people to be mind exercises, but I don't want to pull a muscle, so I stretch a lot. That's why I'm constantly either rolling my eyes or yawning."

~Jarod Kintz, It Occurred to Me

"Do you ever think if people heard our conversations they'd lock us up? All the time."

~Wendy Mass, Jeremy Fink and the Meaning of Life

"She's strong! And scary...I bet she's single...I'd put money on it."

~Masashi Kishimoto, Naruto, Vol. 18: Tsunade's Choice

"I'm not waiting until my hair turns white to become patient and wise. Nope, I'm dyeing my hair tonight." ~Jarod Kintz, This Book is Not for Sale

"If I told you I've worked hard to get where I'm at, I'd be lying, because I have no idea where I am right now." ~Jarod Kintz, This Book is Not for Sale

"You should eat a waffle! You can't be sad id you eat a waffle!"

~Lauren Myracle, ttfn

Blog Tour Stop: Review + Giveaway: Biggest Flirts by Jennifer Echols

Biggest Flirts 
(Superlatives #1)
Author: Jennifer Echols
Release Date: May 20th 2014
Publisher: Simon Pulse
Source: IFB Tours & Jennifer Echols
Review by: Nahomi

Tia and Will’s lives get flipped upside down when they’re voted Yearbook’s Biggest Flirts in this sassy novel from the author of Endless Summer and The One That I Want.

Tia just wants to have fun. She’s worked hard to earn her reputation as the life of the party, and she’s ready for a carefree senior year of hanging out with friends and hooking up with cute boys. And her first order of business? New guy Will. She can’t get enough of his Midwestern accent and laid-back swagger.

As the sparks start to fly, Will wants to get serious. Tia’s seen how caring too much has left her sisters heartbroken, and she isn’t interested in commitment. But pushing Will away drives him into the arms of another girl. Tia tells herself it’s no big deal…until the yearbook elections are announced. Getting voted Biggest Flirts with Will is, well, awkward. They may just be friends, but their chemistry is beginning to jeopardize Will’s new relationship—and causing Tia to reconsider her true feelings. What started as a lighthearted fling is about to get very complicated…

3.5 stars out of 5 stars

      Biggest Flirts is a fun summer read! This is a great book to take to the beach or park to read. Although there are some heavy issues that are being dealt with by the main characters; Will's and Tia's flirting and easy banter keeps the reading light and interesting.

The beginning of this book was a little difficult for me to get through because I found Tia's attitude and self-destructive behavior a little annoying. I get where she is coming from, but I found myself feeling frustrated with her anyways. Another thing that was a turn off for me was how convoluted the relationship between Will and Angelica and Tia was in the beginning. I don't like to give spoilers so I won't go into detail but I had to mention that I really didn't like that dynamic at the beginning of the story.

 After reading through the first part of the book I found myself really interested in Tia and Will's relationship and how their characters developed. Tia is a really intelligent girl, the type that doesn't try to be smart but just is. She tries really hard to be an under achiever and to come off as aloof and uncaring. Will is the new guy that comes off as a bad boy but really isn't. Will is sweet, caring, and good looking. The combination of brown hair and blue eyes is always a turn on for me. Together they balance each other out and have great chemistry.

 This is the type of book that I could typically finish in a sitting. The pacing was quick and it seemed like in a blink of an eye I was done with the book. I left wishing it were a little longer so I could see what happens next with Tia and Will. After finishing this book I was left feeling happy and satisfied. Like I said before this book is a great summer read.

You can follow the rest of the tour here.

Giveaway:

a Rafflecopter giveaway
About the Author:

Jennifer Echols was born in Atlanta and grew up in a small town on a beautiful lake in Alabama—a setting that has inspired many of her books. She has written nine romantic novels for young adults, including the comedy MAJOR CRUSH, which won the National Readers’ Choice Award, and the drama GOING TOO FAR, which was a finalist in the RITA, the National Readers’ Choice Award, and the Book Buyer’s Best, and was nominated by the American Library Association as a Best Book for Young Adults. Simon & Schuster will debut her adult romance novels in 2013, with many more teen novels scheduled for the next few years. She lives in Birmingham with her husband and her son.

Author Links: Goodreads / Website / Twitter

Blog Tour hosted by: IFB Tours

Waiting on Wednesday (#58)

Waiting on Wednesday is a weekly meme, hosted by Jill at Breaking the Spine, that spotlights upcoming releases that we're eagerly anticipating.

Morning swooners!

This week pre-publication "can't wait to read" selection is:

Through to You by Lauren Barnholdt

Expected Release Date: July 8, 2014

Links: Amazon / Barnes & Noble / Goodreads

Synopsis:

Opposites attract—and then complicate—in this romantic, relatable novel from the author of Two-way Street and Sometimes It Happens.

It starts with a scribbled note in class: I like your sparkle. Harper had casually threaded a piece of blue and silver tinsel through her ponytail in honor of school spirit day. And that carefree, corny gesture is what grabs Penn Mattingly’s eye. Penn—resident heartbreaker of the senior class. Reliably unreliable. Trouble with a capital “T.” And okay, smolderingly sexy.

Harper’s surprised by Penn’s attention—and so is Penn. The last thing he needs is a girlfriend. Or even a friend-with-benefits. The note is not supposed to lead to anything.

Oh, but it does. They hang out. They have fun. They talk. They make out. And after a while, it seems like they just click. But Penn and Harper have very different ideas about what relationships look like, in no small part because of their very different family backgrounds. Of course they could talk about these differences—if Penn knew how to talk about feelings.

Harper and Penn understand their attraction is illogical, yet something keeps pulling them together. It’s like a crazy roller coaster—exhilarating, terrifying, and amazing all at once. And neither knows how to stop the ride…

This sounds like something completely up my alley and it has the potential to be a favorite for me. I can't to wait read this.

What are you "Waiting on?"

Review: Breaking the Reins by Juliana Haygert

Breaking The Reins 
(The Breaking Series #1)
Author: Juliana Haygert
Release Date: August 14, 2013
Publisher: Juliana Haygert
Source:YA Bound Book Tours and  Juliana Haygert
Review by: Nahomi

Horses, mansions, tea parties, and lies are twenty-year-old Hannah Taylor’s life. To others, her family and her relationship with Eric is perfect. But she knows the truth. She lives it.
After a fire takes her grandma's life and kills her horse, Hannah's immaculate life spirals out of control. Her father disapproves of her decision to run her grandma’s ranch instead of focusing solely on learning the family business; Animal Control brings her Argus, a mistreated horse that she can't turn away even though she's not ready for another horse; and her boyfriend, Eric Bennett, a world famous polo player, becomes possessive and authoritarian. Despite her best efforts to disguise it, Hannah grows wary of him.

Then, Leonardo Fernandes struts onto the polo scene. A cocky rookie with a messy life of his own, he’s drawn to Hannah and isn’t afraid of showing it, even when Eric makes it clear she is his and he’ll do whatever it takes to keep it that way. Hannah suffers for Eric’s jealousy. The abuse only gets worse when Leo steals the title of best polo player in the world from Eric.

But the title isn’t enough for Leo. He wants Hannah too, and she can’t deny her attraction to him either. Somehow, she must find a way to break free from abusive Eric before he breaks every bone in her body.

**Contains scenes of domestic violence**

*I received an eARC of this book from the Author in exchange for an honest review*

4 stars out 5 stars

      I took a chance when I picked this book. I don't normally like to read these kinds of stories, but I am so glad I did! This book completely took me by surprise, in a good way! Breaking the Reins is a story that deals with a lot of very interesting and real issues such as: self-esteem, depression, domestic abuse, and substance abuse.

Breaking the Reins is fast paced and full of mystery. Beginning with the mysterious fire that killed Hannah’s grandmother and horse Hercules, bad things just seem to keep happening to Hannah’s family. There are several plot twists that had me open-mouthed and in shock. At certain times through out the novel I was holding my breath, because holy cannoli I didn’t know if Hannah was going to survive.

Ms, Haygert does a great job of creating characters that are three-dimensional. I felt that all of the characters in this novel showed personal growth by the end of the story, and I grew really attached to some of them. Hannah has an independent spirit but as the story progresses Eric little by little take her independence away. When Eric first became abusive to her I was really upset at Hannah because she kept rationalizing his aggressive behavior. By the time she finally wakes up and realizes what’s going on her situation seems impossible to get out of.

Leo plays the role of the love interest although in the beginning he is the "other guy". He is sweet, patient, kind, and a bad boy gone good. Leo is Brazilian, has a smoking hot body as well as a really sexy accent. From the beginning I found myself rooting for Leo and Hannah to get together. Although I admire Hannah’s determination to respect her relationship, man I don’t know how she held out for so long. Together Leo and Hannah are like fire and ice. The chemistry between them is crazy.

I could go on and on about how much I liked this book, but I would rather you take a chance and check it out for yourself. I didn’t rate it higher because there were times when I felt really frustrated with Hannah and her decisions. Other than that, I really enjoyed Hannah’s journey and I am so happy Ms. Haygert decided to add an epilogue. It was the perfect ending for this story.

Release Day Launch + Excerpt & Giveaway - All Lined Up by Cora Carmack

All Lined Up (Rusk University #1)

By: Cora Carmack

Release Date: May 13, 2014

Publisher: William Morrow Books

Links: Amazon / Barnes & Noble / Goodreads

Synopsis:

New York Times and USA Today bestselling author Cora Carmack follows up her trio of hits—Losing It, Faking It, and Finding It—with this thrilling first novel in an explosive series bursting with the Texas flavor, edge, and steamy romance of Friday Night Lights.

In Texas, two things are cherished above all else—football and gossip. My life has always been ruled by both.

Dallas Cole loathes football. That's what happens when you spend your whole childhood coming in second to a sport. College is her time to step out of the bleachers, and put the playing field (and the players) in her past.

But life doesn't always go as planned. As if going to the same college as her football star ex wasn’t bad enough, her father, a Texas high school coaching phenom, has decided to make the jump to college ball… as the new head coach at Rusk University. Dallas finds herself in the shadows of her father and football all over again.

Carson McClain is determined to go from second-string quarterback to the starting line-up. He needs the scholarship and the future that football provides. But when a beautiful redhead literally falls into his life, his focus is more than tested. It's obliterated.

Dallas doesn't know Carson is on the team. Carson doesn't know that Dallas is his new coach's daughter.

And neither of them know how to walk away from the attraction they feel.

Excerpt

There’s only one thing in the world I despise more than football, and he’s making his way down the stairs toward me.
My eyes flit around me like I’m scanning a battlefield instead of a blowout:fraternity banners, litter of red Solo cups, and a freshman pledge dragging around a trash bag playing reluctant maid. Part of me wants to keep doing that, to pretend like I didn’t hear him.
But I can’t. If I ignore him, it will only prove to him that he still bothers me.
I face him as he steps off the last stair, crossing his arms over his broad chest and grinning at me. Levi. My ex.
He leans his hip against the banister of the grand staircase, and I spy not one but two girls sitting halfway up the stairs, obviously upset that they’ve lost his attention.
Behind me I hear someone shout, “Ready. Aim. Fire!” and I know the beer guns are back in play.
“Alcohol and bad decisions, Levi? Can’t say I’m surprised to find you smack-dab in the middle of that.”
He kicks off from the banister, swaggering a few steps closer. His dark hair and eyes are as striking as always. I’d fallen for him so hard my freshman year of high school: doodling our names together in my spiral, watching him play from the bleachers, wearing that monstrous mum he gave me for homecoming, beaming on his elbow at his junior prom.
The memory of all that just makes me nauseated now. But as Stella always says, hindsight is a pretentious, know-it-all bitch.
“You come here to make some bad decisions?” He moves closer, his voice pitching lower. Intimate. His gaze drifts down my body with an arrogant familiarity. “Because you know I can help you with that.”
Levi Abrams has been the cause of enough bad decisions for a lifetime.
Stella steps in, her voice colder than I’ve ever heard it. “I’m fairly certain she’d rather sandpaper her own skin off.”
I nod and plaster on the fakest smile in my arsenal. “And then take a bath in lemon juice.”
Levi smiles back, and I’m pretty sure the bastard is enjoying this.
He’s bigger than when I last saw him. Bulked up. I guess that’s the difference between high school and college ball. But it’s not just muscles… he reaches out a hand like he’s going to touch my hair, and as I jerk back, even his hands seem bigger than I remember. A man’s hands, rather than those of the boy I knew. Or maybe his head got so big that his inflated ego overflowed to other parts of his body. Also a possibility.
I knew Levi was here when I chose Rusk University—hard not to when he’s the starting quarterback—but I didn’t think I’d ever have to see him. Since Dad wouldn’t let me leave Texas, and only a handful of universities here actually have a true dance major, Rusk was the best option out of the schools to which I was allowed to apply.
Levi lets his hand fall away and turns to leave, but then stops to say over his shoulder, “You don’t have to pretend to hate me so much, you know. I’m here. You’re here. We could start fresh, D.”
Why does no one get that it’s impossible to have a fresh start when nothing has really changed? God, I knew that better than anybody because no matter how many new coaching jobs Dad took, every school ended up the same.
Levi is still a douche-bag who only cares about himself.
Dad still approaches parenting like I’m a member of his team.
And I… I’m still stuck. In my father’s shadow. In Texas. In this lame state school with a joke of a dance program. 
And now I’m stuck at my first frat party with the ex who broke my heart.
Yay college.

Giveaway

a Rafflecopter giveaway

About the author:

Cora Carmack is a twenty-something writer who likes to write about twenty-something characters. She's done a multitude of things in her life-- boring jobs (like working retail), Fun jobs (like working in a theatre), stressful jobs (like teaching), and dream jobs (like writing). She enjoys placing her characters in the most awkward situations possible, and then trying to help them get a boyfriend out of it. Awkward people need love, too. Her first book, LOSING IT, is a New York Times and USA Today bestseller.
Author's links: Website / Twitter / Facebook / Goodreads

Release Day Launch organized by: InkSlinger PR