So Over You by Gwen Hayes

Stars: 3.5

This is the first book by Gwen Hayes I have read and I really enjoyed this story. Layney Logan was such an incredible character and well defined. It’s Layney’s senior year and she is co-chief editor with Beelzebub (aka Jimmy Foster) her arch nemesis. With funding and cuts, the Journalism class is about to be void but Layney is determined to keep it alive and running no matter the cost.

Layney is set up on 12 random dates for a fundraising calendar which is anything but enticing to her. After an 8th grade break-up, Layney couldn’t let go of her hurt and hate she feels toward Jimmy Foster which had driven her to hate all high school boys….especially Foster! Little does Layney know, Foster still harbors feelings for the Ice Queen Layney and proves he’s anything but the bad guy she claims he is.

This was quite a cute story. I loved the snarky dialogue that Hayes has contributed. I have to say that one of my favorite parts was when Layney was on her karaoke date and Jimmy was called to the stage to sing “Like A Virgin”!! I laughed so hard and still brings giggles when I think about it.

This is a Love-Hate story that will have you laughing, sulking, and cheering on the protagonist to open up and feel love again. I would recommend this book and thanks to my buddy for the recommendation as well. I don’t think it would have even crossed my mind to read if it hadn’t been for that.

Waterfall by Lisa T. Bergren

 
Rating: 5 Gold Stars

Love this book!!!! This was the "Total Package" for me. There wasn't an ounce of anything missing! I'm a sucker for a good history/action/adventure/romance book, but this far exceeded my expectations! I couldn't put this one down, loved every bit of it!

The story is about two sisters who travel to Italy every summer due to their mom and late father's love of archeology. The Betarrini sisters search a tomb in which they were not supposed to enter and find handprints on the wall. As they both place their hands on these ancient handprints things begin to change. Upon entering the 13th century, Gabriella finds she is alone in this tomb, not sure where her sister Evangelia is. As she exits this tomb, she is captured by Marcello, whom by the way is eye candy!

The story is based on Gabriella's search for her sister and mother. She is such an amazing protaganist. Such spunk and wit, it makes you giggle at times. The knowledge she learned growing up helps her with her protrayal of a Lady from this current time. Of course she finds herself developing feelings for Marcello, but he is betrothed and let's just say his soon-to-be partner is anything but kind.

Gabriella does her best to not fall for Marcello, due to an alliance needed by the betrothel of Lady Rossi and Marcello the future Lord of Castello Forelli. She finds it hard when he is so attentive and attractive. Throughout the story you will find yourself at the edge of your seat and cheering on Gabriella as she deals with the longing to find her sister, the fight to not fall for the "knight in shining armor", a devious Lady Rossi, and a battle of inner strength.

The Characters in this story were so well written and the story was so believable. I LOVED the chemistry between Gaby and Marcello. There was such a pull there, which made you want to read more. Gabriella was a strong heroin. She can wield a sword, climb down a stone wall on a rope, give an attitude and yet Present herself as a Lady when needed. Such a fun character to read about. Then there is Marcello, oh Lord Marcello...dreamy, muscular, attentive all rolled up in his Italian hotness! Need I say more??!!

The secondary characters were amazing as well. A great story isn't a great story without the jealous, devious, bitchy girlfriend. Lady Rossi surely played her part in that. Ugh makes me cringe thinking about her! Luca, captain Luca Forelli, cousin of Marcello. Such a great cast of characters and they all contributed to make this story as amazing and wonderful as it was.

This has got to be one of my favorite books so far this year and I can't wait until June when the next book in River of Time series comes out. I would recommend this book to everyone. Young and old. It is a book that is relatable yet very enjoyable to read!

Starcrossed by Josephine Angelini

Starcrossed By Josephine Angelini

Rating: 3.5/4

Publisher: HarperTeen

Expected Publication: May 31, 2011

This book gives a new twist to paranormal/mythology. The cover is absolutely gorgeous and was an okay read for me.

This story is about Helen Hamilton, a 16 year-old, who was raised by her father on the island of Nantucket. Helen has always known she was different but always just wanted to fit in. A new family moved to the island and Helen starts to have nightmares and seeing three blood weeping ladies she thinks are ghosts. Weird events unfold as the Delos family makes their presence. 

When Helen finally comes across Lucas Delos, she instantly feels anger and hate. Little does Helen know, she is about to find out why she is different than others and why she is experiencing strange nightmares.

As Descendants of Greek Gods, these Scions (Demigods) are cursed with a blood debt their ancestors received and were passed down through the generations. With a hate/love relationship, the story unveils a love story within and a battle to maintain it. 

I did like this story and I am a sucker for mythology, but there were a few components to the story that I would have loved the author to expand on. With that being said, it was a good read and the characters were enjoyable. You have your bad boy, your timid protagonist, the lust worthy male counterpart and the fabulously funny best friend. Give this book a try.

Thank you to NetGALLEY and HarperCollins Publishers!

The Goddess Test by Aimee Carter

5 out of 5 stars go to this beautifully written book.  I enjoy Mythology and Aimee Carter’s creative spin was fun and spirited.  I loved this book and will recommend it as a Must Read of 2011!  I love that this book captivated me in so many categories.  Romance…check! Mystery…check!  Drama…check!  Paranormal….check!

Eighteen year old Kate Winters is moving back to where her mother grew up.  Not to be with extended family and not due to a new job either.  They move back to Eden, Michigan from New York because Diane Winters, Kate’s mother is nearing the end of a four year fight with cancer.  Kate has been the primary care taker during her mother’s illness and didn’t finish her senior year of High School.  She is enrolled to finish her last year at Eden High School and she isn’t looking to make any new friends.  She just wants to take care of her mother and not miss a moment with her while she is still alive. 

She however, does make the acquaintance of a few students and slowly breaks down some walls to let them in, as per her mother’s wishes.  Ava it seems is only interested in keeping her boyfriends eyes off of Kate.  So she thinks keeping her enemies close is the best bet. James is a shy, nerdy boy who seems to think Kate is pretty great.  Kate makes it clear to both James and Ava that she does not date!

And then she meets Henry.  Gorgeous, mysterious Henry.

Tragedy strikes…choices are made…and the story unfolds from there. 

I am clearly not a writer.  I don’t claim to be one. There is no review good enough to describe this fresh new story.  I am so grateful that there will be a sequel because I just have to have more.

Thank you Netgalley for the ARC opportunity.  This one will be on my bookshelf for sure once it comes out!

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Jane Eyre by Charlotte Bronte

 It's hard to believe this book was published in 1847 because its themes are so timeless.  The book follows the life of Jane Eyre, who survives a difficult childhood and emerges a determined, independent young woman.  Her character and resolve are tested over and over, yet she remains true to herself.  Her relationship to Mr. Rochester is fascinating, because she considers herself plain and uninteresting, yet he is captivated by her.  Their relationship is severely tested and eventually broken (although later they are reunited!), and she emerges even more determined to make her own way in the world.

Read this book and learn about a world so different from our own, and yet the problems, hopes and dreams of the characters could be from today.  Charlotte Bronte has created a world where only the strong survive, and Jane Eyre and Mr. Rochester are survivors.  This book absolutely rates 5 stars!

Nightshade by Andrea Cremer

I absolutely love this book!  5 out of 5 for me.  It has been some time since I have had a story suck me in like this one did.  I am so grateful for beautiful book covers...no joke...it really made me want to read this book.  Crazy right?  So much about this book made me love it.  I was on the journey from the get go and the mystery wasn't one that could be figured out. You just had to be surprised as you go.  Hats off to Andrea Cremer to make a paranormal story so captivating.  I was truly hooked from the start.  I love it that there wasn't a slow part that you have to gut through to get to the good part.  This was ALL good part ALL the time. 

The love triangle that's developed in this story is so amazing.  I will not go into the story for fear of adding or changing it.  You know how some reviews want to tell the story in their perspective....ha.  I call that a book club discussion not a review.  I would however love to discuss this book with those who have read it!
Well done Andrea.  I haven't enough well thought out or intelligent words to describe your amazing book!
I can just say this...I can not wait to read more from you!

Die For Me by Amy Plum

Rating: 5/5 Stars

Expected Publication: May 10th 2011

HarperCollins

What a great surprise! Not only is the cover beautiful, but the story within is absolutely wonderful! An amazing fresh YA/Supernatural romance that will capture you and make you crave more!

This story is about Kate Beaumont Mercier, a 16 year old who is struggling with the recent death of her parents. Georgia, Kate’s sister, decides that it would be best for them to move to Paris and live with their late fathers parents. Kate turns into an agoraphobic mess. She spends her time in museums, cinemas and small café’s to avoid being around people. Sitting in one of her chosen café’s, Kate notices someone staring at her from across the terrace and the world froze around her when their eyes met.

As the story unfolds into this beautiful masterpiece that Amy Plum has written, Kate falls for this beautiful, undead-guardian-angel type, Vincent. Kate’s world is about to change and she has to make a decision whether to maintain her self-preservation or go-for-it and move into a world of romance, love and the unknown.

The setting is set in Paris, the City of light. Amy has submitted so much knowledge of landmarks and scenes into this story and it makes you feel as if you are there. The secondary characters are so amazing! I fell in love with the humor they bring and the tight knit friendships they have. It is one big dysfunctional family and you will love what they bring to the story. (One in particular) The writing is easy to follow and flows just right.

 This book has so much all rolled into one. I couldn’t put this book down! It is a MUST READ.

Thank you to NetGalley and HarperCollins for the amazing opportunity to read this phenomenal book!

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The Goddess Test by Aimee Carter

 What an incredible debut from author Aimee Carter!! The Goddess Test was absolutely amazing!!! I’ve always had a love for Greek Mythology and Aimee has just set the precedence for Greek Mythology lovers.

The story is about a girl named Kate and her mother who is deathly ill. Kate’s mother wants to go back to her hometown where she was born and raised to die. Kate has taken care of her mother for the past four years and that’s all she knows. She doesn’t have a life outside of home and school. Kate loves her mother more than anything and will do anything to make her happy in her final days. The story really unfolds when Kate begins school in Eden. When Kate ends up falling victim to a vicious prank she meets Henry, a beautiful, dark and mysterious guy who makes a deal with Kate and now Kate has a bargain to uphold and many choices to make. She faces many hardships but also discovers comforts in other places and people, especially Henry. She is falling for him and is finding she relates to him more than she ever thought. They both have hardships they have been dealt but together they can face them hand in hand.

The characters in this story are well defined and well written. Our protagonist, Kate, was an all around amazing character. There wasn’t anything annoying about her and the emotions and the heart she showed was absolutely captivating! This had me on the edge of my seat with a Kleenex box in hand. This book truly pulls you to the core. Henry was yet again, another amazing character. You really learn and understand him better and become so wrapped up in everything he has gone through. I really loved the secondary characters as well. They brought so much to the story. They played such an important part in making it as wonderful as it could be.

This is a beautifully written book with such fresh and vivid details you can actually picture the settings and the see the story unfold in your own eyes. I was so captivated by this book. I will definitely be buying this as soon as it comes out. I’m looking forward to the next book Goddess Interrupted. This is a Must read!!!  

Thank You to NetGalley and Harlequin Teen!!

New blogspot again

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Goodreads | In the Arms of Stone Angels by Jordan Dane - Reviews, Discussion, Bookclubs, Lists

Goodreads In the Arms of Stone Angels by Jordan Dane - Reviews, Discussion, Bookclubs, Lists