tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-636037162342120582024-03-05T14:29:41.674-05:00Ash Reads StuffBook ramblings, reviews, and random reading thoughts. Ashleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07191125246064963107noreply@blogger.comBlogger268125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-63603716234212058.post-42421818530721213212022-06-06T21:04:00.001-04:002022-06-06T21:04:55.837-04:00(Review) Built To Last<div style="text-align: center;"><i><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1639950789i/59808252.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="400" data-original-width="261" height="400" src="https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1639950789i/59808252.jpg" width="261" /></a></div><br /><b><br /></b></i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i><b><br /></b></i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i><b>Built to Last</b></i> by Erin Hahn</div><div style="text-align: center;"><b>Publication Date:</b> October 18th, 2022</div><div style="text-align: center;"><b>Pages: </b>336</div><div style="text-align: center;"><b>Genre:</b> Romance</div><div style="text-align: center;"><b>My Goodreads Rating: </b>3 stars</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><b>Goodreads Synopsis: </b><br />Two childhood sweethearts find a second chance at love in this adult romance debut from a critically acclaimed young adult author.<br /><br />Shelby Springfield has spent the last ten years trying to overcome her past, sanding it away like she does the rough spots on the vintage furniture finds she makes over. But as a former child star, it’s hard to forget a mediocre pop career, a meltdown widely documented by the paparazzi, and a huge public break with her former co-star Lyle Jessup. It’s also hard to forget her other co-star and childhood sweetheart, Cameron Riggs -- the one who got away.<br /><br />Anytime Shelby has called, Cameron has come running… And then he runs right off again to chase stories around the world by making documentaries, too scared to admit what he really wants. But when Lyle stirs the pot, getting the two back in the spotlight with a home renovation show, Cameron can't help but come on board.<br /><br />There's something in it for everyone -- almost. Cameron wants to come home and set down some roots. Shelby wants to prove to the world she's not the messy party girl anymore. And Lyle wants to twist the screws on his two childhood friends who had more chemistry than he could dream of with anyone. Sparks and sawdust fly as Shelby and Cameron film the pilot for "Homemade" and battle Lyle’s shenanigans at every turn.<br /><br />Erin Hahn’s sparkling rom com debut, Built to Last, is a second chance romance sure to have readers falling in love fast.<div><br /></div><div><b>My Review: </b></div><div><b><br /></b></div><div>Ahem. First of all. </div><div><b><br /></b></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://c.tenor.com/n2qnR8vogfIAAAAC/snow-white-blow.gif" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="284" data-original-width="498" height="284" src="https://c.tenor.com/n2qnR8vogfIAAAAC/snow-white-blow.gif" width="498" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Since it's been, oh, a few years since I've reviewed a book I'll probably make this one short and sweet. Hey! Kind of like this book! I first read Erin Hahn's work with "You'd Be Mine", a sweet little YA that I loved. I figured this book would follow the same formula when I requested it and I was pretty much right. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Shelby and Cameron are childhood sweethearts that have strayed away from each other. Cameron chose a path that was basically him running away from his fame and the love of his life. Shelby lived the celebrity scene until her boyfriend cheated on her and her life kind of fell apart. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">They are brought back together by Lyle, the cheating ex, to start in a television show together. There is definitely chemistry between the two of them and since the story is told in alternating POVs there isn't really a "do they or don't they" mystery here. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">The banter is cute and the side characters were some of my favorites. Friends who root for you are the best and these guys have some good friends. Lyle caused some unnecessary drama for the sake of "the show" but it was as expected. For characters in their late 20s he seemed very immature. Or maybe I'm just really old now. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I liked Shelby's growth a lot and felt that Cameron got off kind of easy. He left her when she needed him and, while I know it wasn't an ideal situation, everyone just forgave him like the Prodigal Son.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">This was a really sweet story with a super sappy ending for all. It took me a bit to realize that the chapter titles were all songs and that irked me a bit. The book wasn't "music" themed so it didn't make sense and felt a little "2010 Twilight Fanfic" to me. Trust me, I would know. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Still, check this one out if you're looking for something cute and fluffy. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the ARC. </div><b><br /></b></div><div><b><br /></b></div>Ashleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07191125246064963107noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-63603716234212058.post-10595269505208854912019-06-23T18:16:00.001-04:002019-06-23T18:16:12.178-04:00(Review) Who I Am With You<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<i><b>Who I am With You</b></i> by Robin Lee Hatcher</div>
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<b>Publication Date:</b> December 11th, 2018</div>
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<b>Pages:</b> 318 (kindle)</div>
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<b>Genre:</b> Christian Fiction</div>
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<b>My Goodreads Rating:</b> 4 stars</div>
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<b>Goodreads Synopsis:</b><br /><b><i>For these two broken hearts, the first step toward love will be a huge leap of faith. </i></b><br />Jessica Mason isn’t looking for love when she meets Ridley Chesterfield. Instead she is still reeling from the tragic, unexpected loss of her husband and daughter—and awaiting the arrival of her unborn child. Harboring the secret of her husband’s betrayal, her pain is deeper than anyone knows.<br /><br />Ridley Chesterfield is hiding out in Hope Springs, Idaho, avoiding a political scandal and the barrage of false media headlines that have tarnished his good name. The last thing Ridley wants is a relationship—but when fate leads Ridley to form a friendship with his reclusive and pregnant neighbor, he wonders if this small-town hideout might be more of a long-term destination. <br /><br />When Jessica begins to read her great-grandfather’s Bible, she finds a connection with a man she never knew. Somehow the verses he marked and the words he wrote in the margins open her heart to healing. And as Ridley and Jessica help each other forgive the people who have wronged them, they must decide if the past will define them or if they will choose to love again. <br /><br />Who I Am With You weaves together a modern-day romance with Jessica’s great-grandfather’s story from the 1930s, reminding us that some truths can cross generations and that faith has the power to transform families forever.<div>
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<b>My Review:</b></div>
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I never really know what to expect when I pick up a Christian fiction book and I'm always a little wary when I read one. It's not usually my genre of choice and I kind of stumbled upon this review site by accident. </div>
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With that being said, this book really exceeded my expectations. I liked both the main characters right away, which hardly never happens. Though Jessica seems a bit hardheaded, she's also been through a lot and, honestly, I don't blame her. Ridley is a different story. He's obviously been burned, but his faith is still strong and there's something to appreciate in that. </div>
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Their meeting is innocent and sweet and so is the friendship that grows between them. I love how gentle and kind Ridley is with Jessica and how Jessica doesn't realize how she's falling for Ridley. </div>
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Everything about their relationship is easy and uncomplicated (minus the pregnancy and Ridley hiding out from the press), even the exploration of their faith. I love that Ridley brings Jessica out of her shell, back into her life and into the world. </div>
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The flashbacks to Andrew's life were a nice addition and the scripture incorporated was instrumental in helping Jessica to heal. Her reaction to finding out the truth about her husband was a true testament to her growth and growth is pretty much one of my favorite things in a book. </div>
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Oh, and the sweet romance. </div>
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This was a lovely book and I'm looking forward to reading the next ones in the series. </div>
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Thanks to the publisher for the advanced copy. </div>
Ashleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07191125246064963107noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-63603716234212058.post-28888286385267542202019-06-17T20:55:00.004-04:002019-06-17T20:55:56.203-04:00(Review) Something Like Gravity<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<b><i>Something Like Gravity </i></b>by Amber Smith</div>
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<b>Publication Date: </b>June 18th, 2019</div>
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<b>Pages: </b>400 (kindle)</div>
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<b>Genre:</b> Young Adult</div>
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<b>My Goodreads Rating:</b> 3 stars</div>
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<b>Goodreads Synopsis: </b><br />
Chris and Maia aren’t off to a great start.<br />
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A near-fatal car accident first brings them together, and their next encounters don’t fare much better. Chris’s good intentions backfire. Maia’s temper gets the best of her.<br />
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But they’re neighbors, at least for the summer, and despite their best efforts, they just can’t seem to stay away from each other.<br />
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The path forward isn’t easy. Chris has come out as transgender, but he’s still processing a frightening assault he survived the year before. Maia is grieving the loss of her older sister and trying to find her place in the world without her. Falling in love was the last thing on either of their minds.<br />
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But would it be so bad if it happened anyway?<br />
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<b>My Review: </b><br />
When a book is compared to <i>Simon vs. The Homosapiens Agenda</i>, count me in, okay? Of course, not all books can be <i>Simon</i> and I feel like this one was far from it.<br />
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Chris is an interesting character, but there's little depth to him. He's transgender, but there isn't much to it other than him saying it. I'm not saying I wanted a parade or anything, but there isn't a lot of Chris talking or thinking about the situation. There are hints to an event that happened, there's the strained relationship with his parents, but, to me, it lacked depth.<br />
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Honestly, it was the same with Maia. She lost her sister and spends her days basically pretending to be her, in a way? She walks around with a camera with no film pretending to take pictures of things that her sister took pictures of.<br />
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To me, neither one of these characters have any depth to them. The relationship happens quickly, even though Maia knows Chris is transgender because she spied on him, not because he told her. Maia is good at keeping secrets, however. I felt like there wasn't a lot of time within the start of the relationship and the "I love you" so I was definitely caught off guard with that.<br />
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So many things come out towards the end and everything just kind of blows up in everyone's face. The end of this book is, in my opinion, very dramatic: teenagers traveling hundreds of miles to prove points but also not making much character growth.<br />
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Truthfully, this was an easy read. It had some good points and I feel like it had a lot of potential, but just didn't bring its best.Ashleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07191125246064963107noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-63603716234212058.post-76715129444870406452019-06-17T19:45:00.003-04:002019-06-17T20:00:31.031-04:00(Review) Start Here<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<i><b>Start Here</b></i> by Trish Doller</div>
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<b>Publication Date: </b>August 13th, 2019</div>
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<b>Pages:</b> 352 (hardcover)</div>
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<b>Genre:</b> Young Adult</div>
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<b>My Goodreads Rating:</b> 4 stars</div>
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<b>Goodreads Synopsis:</b><br />
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<b>Two teens go on a life-changing sailing trip as they deal with the grief of losing their best friend in this heartwrenching, hopeful novel from the author of <i>Something Like Normal</i> and <i>In a Perfect World</i>.</b><br />
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<b><span style="color: #181818; font-family: "merriweather" , "georgia" , serif;"><span style="font-size: 14px;"><br /></span></span></b>Willa and Taylor were supposed to spend the summer after high school sailing from Ohio to Key West with their best friend, Finley. But Finley died before graduation, leaving them with a twenty-five-foot sailboat, a list of clues leading them to destinations along the way, and a friendship that’s hanging by a thread.<br />
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Now, Willa and Taylor have two months and two thousand miles to discover how life works without Finley—and to decide if their own friendship is worth saving.<br />
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From acclaimed author Trish Doller comes a poignant tale of forgiveness, grief, and the brilliant discoveries we make within ourselves when we least expect it.<br />
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<b>My Review: </b></div>
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It's really no secret on this blog that I'm a huge Trish Doller fan. In one of my <a href="http://www.thisgirlashreadsstuff.com/2016/11/review-devil-you-know.html" target="_blank">reviews </a>I wrote about awkwardly meeting her and kind of told you about her book. I think. I had a lot going on that day. </div>
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Recently I had the opportunity to read her latest release, Start Here, as an advanced copy. Guys, if you have a best friend, you want this book. (You want this book if you don't have a best friend, too.) </div>
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Our story starts with Finley, but you know from the synopsis that, while Finley is the main reason for this story, she also dies early on in it. </div>
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That leaves Willa and Taylor to fend for themselves on a sailing trip from Ohio to Florida. Finley was the buffer between these two who come from very different worlds. Taylor has a picture perfect life whereas Willa is raised by a single mother and things are always easy for her. </div>
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The trip gets off to a rocky start, but the girls are determined to make it work. I love how they set aside their differences to actually <i>get shit done</i>, and also manage to be civil to each other. It's easy for the girls to flip when the other says something they don't like, but in true best friend fashion it is often easily diverted. </div>
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One of the most interesting things about this book is that Willa and Taylor don't see the other as their friend, they only feel tied together because of Finley. You can tell that they are trying because it's what Finley would have wanted. Eventually they see that it doesn't matter what Finley would have wanted, it's about what is best for the two of them. </div>
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I loved how they supported each other without telling the other because they just knew it was something they should do. There were so many little moments where you see them going to thrift shops, getting a specific type of food, telling someone off for the other person that it lets you know they really do care about each other. </div>
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Ultimately that's what the story is about: Willa and Taylor finding their way back to each other without Finley. I would have loved to delve more into Taylor's relationship or hear more about Finley but all in all the book hit deep in the feels. </div>
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Huge thanks to Simon Pulse for the ARC. </div>
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Now, go hug your best friend. </div>
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Ashleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07191125246064963107noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-63603716234212058.post-19042170868939323802019-06-12T08:50:00.002-04:002019-06-12T08:57:16.263-04:00(Review) The Last Hope <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1535127356l/36678876.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="475" data-original-width="310" height="320" src="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1535127356l/36678876.jpg" width="208" /></a></div>
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<i style="font-weight: bold;">The Last Hope </i>by: Krista & Becca Ritchie</div>
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<b>Publication Date:</b> August 13th, 2019</div>
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<b>Pages:</b> 400 (hardcover)</div>
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<b>Genre:</b> Young Adult </div>
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<b>My Goodreads Rating:</b> 3 Stars</div>
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<b>NetGalley Synopsis: </b><br />
<b>A stunning conclusion to the sci-fi romance duology by writing duo Krista & Becca Ritchie, The Last Hope is filled with twists and turns you'll never see coming.</b><br />
<i>Sacrifice all you have to survive.</i><br />
Imprisoned for weeks on an enemy starcraft, Franny, Court, and Mykal have sat with an unfathomable revelation. But as they fight to stay alive, escaping prison means trusting a young mysterious stranger. He knows everything about their lost histories, and when answers aren’t given freely, the bonded trio are forced to join a mission. One that will determine the fate of humanity.<br />
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Legend says, a baby—the first of her species—has the power to cloak and teleport planets. Tasked with retrieving the infant, Court fears the baby is just a myth, and if they fail, they’ll never find the truth about their origins.<br />
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As Court and Mykal grow closer, their linked bond becomes harder to hide, and dynamics change when Franny begins to fall for someone new. Vulnerable and with no choice, the hunt for the baby sends the trio on a dangerous path to Saltare-1: a water world where their enemies can’t die and survival comes at a high cost.<br />
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<b>My Review: </b><br />
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When I got an email inviting me to read the second book of <i><a href="http://www.thisgirlashreadsstuff.com/2018/07/reviewthe-raging-ones.html" target="_blank">The Raging Ones</a></i> duology I jumped at the chance. The first book left me intrigued and kind of on the edge of my seat with a cliffhanger and I was excited to get back to these three and see how their story ended. </div>
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When we meet up with the three: Franny, Mykal, and Court, they are being held captive by an enemy crew. Though they aren't quite sure what the reasoning is and things are really not looking up for them. Because of their bond they are each suffering three-fold and they don't know that they are being watched. </div>
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They're saved by Stork and told so much new information about themselves that they don't know what to believe, then all hell breaks loose. The leaders of the people who freed them are murdered on a live feed and now it's up to them to save what's left of humanity. Yep, humanity. </div>
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I enjoyed that this book was fast-paced and kept me guessing, though it could be a little corny and far-fetched at times. I guess that's what comes with having three people emotionally linked? I was finding that the things I found endearing in the first book were things that annoyed me in this one. It was obvious that Mykal and Court were moving forward into their relationship and leaving Franny behind. Not going to lie, I was really rooting for all three of them to live happily ever after. </div>
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That doesn't happen, though. </div>
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The ending, with the baby...It's simple and no-nonsense and will kind of leave you scratching your head a little bit. I enjoyed everything being tied up with a nice little bow, even if it wasn't what I wanted. </div>
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Mostly I loved Stork and his growth. The other three kind of got on my nerves through the whole book until the very end and even then I was annoyed with them. Maybe that's just me, though.<br />
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Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the ARC. </div>
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Ashleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07191125246064963107noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-63603716234212058.post-57785352142580007622019-05-18T14:16:00.001-04:002019-05-18T14:16:25.436-04:00(Review) Come Find Me<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<b><i>Come Find Me</i></b> by Megan Miranda</div>
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<b>Publication Date:</b> January 29th, 2019</div>
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<b>Pages:</b> 336 (hardcover)</div>
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<b>Genre: </b>Young Adult </div>
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<b>My Goodreads Rating: </b>3 Stars</div>
<br /><br /><b>Goodreads Synopsis: </b>After surviving an infamous family tragedy, sixteen-year-old Kennedy Jones has made it her mission to keep her brother's search through the cosmos alive. But then something disturbs the frequency on his radio telescope--a pattern registering where no signal should transmit.<br /><br />In a neighboring county, seventeen-year-old Nolan Chandler is determined to find out what really happened to his brother, who disappeared the day after Nolan had an eerie premonition. There hasn't been a single lead for two years, until Nolan picks up an odd signal--a pattern coming from his brother's bedroom.<br /><br />Drawn together by these strange signals--and their family tragedies--Kennedy and Nolan search for the origin of the mysterious frequency. But the more they uncover, the more they believe that everything's connected--even their pasts--as it appears the signal is meant for them alone, sharing a message that only they can understand. Is something coming for them? Or is the frequency warning them about something that's already here<div>
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<b>My Review: </b></div>
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I've been a fan of Megan's since I got to read <i style="font-weight: bold;">All the Missing Girls</i> as an ARC and fell in love with her writing style. I've got a couple of her other books on my TBR list but managed to snag this one from the library for my drive to work and back. </div>
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I loved that this was described as "Stranger Things like" and was excited to dive into it. Kennedy is an interesting main character who mainly keeps to herself. When she finds the "signal" she tries to delve deeper into it, hoping it will give her some answers on what happened the night her mother died and her brother was arrested for the murder. Soon enough she meets Nolan and they begin to work together with their strange findings. </div>
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Nolan lives in a house plastered with missing children's photos. His parents started an agency after his brother disappeared and it consumes them. </div>
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Kennedy and Nolan think they are connected because they both find the same signal and they believe that someone or something is trying to make contact. </div>
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Now, maybe it was because I listened to the book, but I was a little underwhelmed by the whole thing. I was looking forward to an interesting sci-fi story, but the signal is where the sci-fi ends. Also, the male narrator was very, very slow and it was hard to listen to. </div>
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I liked the sweet moments between Kennedy and Nolan, but that was pretty much all I was invested in. Once the mystery of Kennedy's "tragedy" came out there wasn't really anything else I wanted to know. Well, I wanted to know what happened to Nolan's brother and I truly thought it was going to be that Stranger Things thing was going to be, but it wasn't. </div>
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Ultimately this was a story about loss and people working through their pain more than any supernatural or sci-fi, which was fine. It just wasn't what I was expecting. </div>
Ashleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07191125246064963107noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-63603716234212058.post-48316393852690648992019-03-18T11:04:00.003-04:002019-03-18T11:04:21.496-04:00(Review) A Very Large Expanse of Sea<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1530221203l/38720939.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="475" data-original-width="314" height="320" src="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1530221203l/38720939.jpg" width="211" /></a></div>
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<i><b>A Very Large Expanse of Sea </b></i>by Tahereh Mafi</div>
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<b>Publication Date:</b> October 16th, 2018</div>
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<b>Pages:</b> 320 (hardcover)</div>
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<b>Genre:</b> Young Adult </div>
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<b>My Goodreads Rating: </b>5 Stars</div>
<br /><b>Goodreads Synopsis: </b>It’s 2002, a year after 9/11. It’s an extremely turbulent time politically, but especially so for someone like Shirin, a sixteen-year-old Muslim girl who’s tired of being stereotyped.<br /><br />Shirin is never surprised by how horrible people can be. She’s tired of the rude stares, the degrading comments—even the physical violence—she endures as a result of her race, her religion, and the hijab she wears every day. So she’s built up protective walls and refuses to let anyone close enough to hurt her. Instead, she drowns her frustrations in music and spends her afternoons break-dancing with her brother.<br /><br />But then she meets Ocean James. He’s the first person in forever who really seems to want to get to know Shirin. It terrifies her—they seem to come from two irreconcilable worlds—and Shirin has had her guard up for so long that she’s not sure she’ll ever be able to let it down.<br /><br /><br /><b>My Review: </b>I've never ready any of Tahereh's books before, and I grabbed this audio book on a whim because it just happened to be available on my library app. Honestly, I don't even remember people talking about this book when it came out but, WOW, they missing something amazing. <div>
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I immediately loved every single one of these characters. Shirin is a complete badass, who seems like she has a chip on her shoulder and is absolutely allowed to. She deals with ridicule and racism on a daily basis simply because of who she is and what she chooses to wear. She doesn't give in to anyone's suggestions that she stop doing something that she does for herself and she doesn't take shit from anyone. </div>
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So, when she meets Ocean she's definitely got her guard up. Ocean is precious. Literally precious. He is kind and smart and sweet. You can tell that he's head over heels for Shirin pretty much from the start, but she's always got her guard up. The progression of their relationship is one of the purest I've ever read. The friendship that grows into more is so, so beautiful. Now, I listened to this book and it's totally different from reading it, but I could feel the <i>feels</i>, man. </div>
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When things turn to shit (because you know they do) I was truly in suspense. Even though this was a teen romance, I was worried. This book takes place post September 11th, and there are so many factors to could have an effect on the outcome for these characters. Honestly, I just fell in love with Ocean so much more in the last few minutes of this book. (So did Shirin, so it's okay.) </div>
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Though this story takes place in 2002, it's definitely relevant to today and, you know, the future. It's beautiful. I wish more people knew about it. Spread the word, okay? Buy it, borrow it, read it. </div>
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Oh, it's going to be a movie. </div>
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Also, there's break dancing. </div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Tahereh Mafi is a break dancer, BTW. </td></tr>
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Ashleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07191125246064963107noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-63603716234212058.post-44623391333616543212019-01-26T12:55:00.002-05:002019-01-26T13:10:07.479-05:00(Review) The Raven Cycle<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Okay, look. I have a problem with hyped up books. I have issues with people talking and talking about something and telling me to read it. I've been burned before (Allegiant ring a bell to anyone?) and sometimes I'm just not into the book that everyone else loves. No big deal, it's just me.<br />
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So I never read <i>The Raven Boys </i>or any of the rest of the series. I didn't really even have an inkling that I might <i>want </i>to read the books. Honestly, I don't even know why I picked it up in the first place two weeks ago.<br />
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I grabbed an audiobook of <i>The Raven Boys</i> on my library app because I like to listen to books on my long ass commute to and from work and when I read. I had to wait about a week for the book, so I read some other stuff during that time, including Maggie's <i>All the Crooked Saints</i>, which I didn't love and therefore was wary of <i>TRB. </i>Okay, I also just remembered that because I read <i>All the Crooked Saints</i> I wanted to try <i>TRB. </i>Great, now we've come full circle.<br />
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Listening to books is something I've been doing since the summer. I was struggling with some training runs while training for the Chicago Marathon and a few people suggested changing what I listen to to help me, so I started listening to books. This also ignited arguments with people about whether or not listening to books counts as "reading a book". (It does, let's move on.)<br />
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The narrator of the series is Will Patton and it took me two and half books and a conversation with a friend about the narrator to realize who he was. Then I could only see his face reading the story.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://thumbs.gfycat.com/BossyFrankHind-size_restricted.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="295" data-original-width="620" height="152" src="https://thumbs.gfycat.com/BossyFrankHind-size_restricted.gif" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Remember the Titans, anyone?</td></tr>
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With all that backstory over with, here's the deal. I'm going to try to do a mini review of sorts for each book and then you'll be obsessed too, okay? Okay. I'm not going to do full review like normal, with the synopsis of each book. I'll just post the synopsis to the first book. Honestly, you've probably all already read this book and I'm just over here two years late to the final book release. It's fine. I'll survive.<br />
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<b>My Rating:</b> Five Stars</div>
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<b>Synopsis: </b></div>
<i>“There are only two reasons a non-seer would see a spirit on St. Mark’s Eve,” Neeve said. “Either you’re his true love . . . or you killed him.”</i><br />
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It is freezing in the churchyard, even before the dead arrive.<br />
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Every year, Blue Sargent stands next to her clairvoyant mother as the soon-to-be dead walk past. Blue herself never sees them—not until this year, when a boy emerges from the dark and speaks directly to her.<br />
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His name is Gansey, and Blue soon discovers that he is a rich student at Aglionby, the local private school. Blue has a policy of staying away from Aglionby boys. Known as Raven Boys, they can only mean trouble.<br />
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But Blue is drawn to Gansey, in a way she can’t entirely explain. He has it all—family money, good looks, devoted friends—but he’s looking for much more than that. He is on a quest that has encompassed three other Raven Boys: Adam, the scholarship student who resents all the privilege around him; Ronan, the fierce soul who ranges from anger to despair; and Noah, the taciturn watcher of the four, who notices many things but says very little.<br />
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For as long as she can remember, Blue has been warned that she will cause her true love to die. She never thought this would be a problem. But now, as her life becomes caught up in the strange and sinister world of the Raven Boys, she’s not so sure anymore.<br />
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<b>My Review: </b></div>
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Forbidden love, amirite? Like, sign me up. I'm here for it. Why didn't anyone ever tell me <i>The Raven Boys</i> was about forbidden love and shit? Why didn't I ever look it up on my own? Honestly, I don't know. I do know that I was immediately drawn into this story, starting with the graveyard scene. I loved Blue from the start and that made it easy to love everyone else who came along. Gansey, in all his glory, Ronan with his anger, Adam with <i>his </i>anger, and Noah. Oh, Noah. I love the slow burn of this book. The little tidbits you get about each character and how everything slowly starts to make sense and fall into place. The way they meet, fight, and love. Wow. Each one of these characters has such a huge dynamic with the other and the world building is fantastic. Even though it takes place in "rural" Virginia, there is <i>magic</i>. Ugh. So much magic. When I finished this book (it took about a week while driving), I was obsessed. I finished the rest within a weekend. </div>
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<b>My Rating: </b>Four Stars</div>
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<b>My Review: </b></div>
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I loved this insight into Ronan. He comes across as "the asshole" of the group, but his story is so, so deep. There are so many layers to him, his dreaming, and his feelings and I loved that we got to dig a little more into those. Even Adam started to grow on me a little in this book. He's not my favorite, by far, but I started to see a little bit more of him in this part of the series. </div>
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<b>My Rating: </b>Four Stars</div>
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<b>My Review: </b></div>
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This one was probably my least favorite of the series, but I can't really point my finger on it. Probably because Gwenllian is really annoying. The search for Blue's mother and Gansey's search, the fighting...Okay, I take it back. This one was full of drama and I loved it. My favorite part of this series is the little Blue/Gansey moments that are quiet and stolen and secret. Forbidden love will getcha every time. </div>
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<b>My Rating: </b>Five Stars</div>
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<b>My Review: </b></div>
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I started this book on a Monday when I was off from school. Somewhere out in the world there's a picture of me on the floor, just listening and feeling my feels. While prepping for this series to end, I tried to find spoilers and things (#savegansey) and made my way through a few other reviews. A lot of them thought the ending lacked a little, and while I do agree that one of the main things I wanted and waited for could have been <i>more</i> I was still pretty happy with the all around ending. These characters continue to grow, love, and laugh through each chapter. One of my very favorite things is the sarcasm that seems to seep through all of them. The addition of Henry to the Gangsey was a lot of fun. The relationships that <i>finally</i> get put out in the open made my smile like a big dummy over and over. The fact that my babies...well, you'll just have to read it if you want to know how they all end up. </div>
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You won't be disappointed, though. You can join me in my late to the party. </div>
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<b>EDIT:</b> I also ordered all four books in hardcover while still in the middle of the series and will probably read them again as soon as they get here.<br />
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<b>EDIT: </b>I added a quote. </div>
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Ashleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07191125246064963107noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-63603716234212058.post-36520862050568159382019-01-06T19:28:00.000-05:002019-01-06T19:30:48.114-05:00(Review) White Stag<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<i><b>White Stag</b></i> by Kara Barbieri</div>
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<b>Publication Date:</b> January 8th, 2019</div>
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<b>Pages:</b> 368 (kindle)</div>
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<b>Genre:</b> Young Adult Fantasy</div>
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<b>My Goodreads Rating: </b>3 Stars</div>
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<b>Goodreads Synopsis: </b>As the last child in a family of daughters, seventeen-year-old Janneke was raised to be the male heir. While her sisters were becoming wives and mothers, she was taught to hunt, track, and fight. On the day her village was burned to the ground, Janneke—as the only survivor—was taken captive by the malicious Lydian and eventually sent to work for his nephew Soren.<br />
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Janneke’s survival in the court of merciless monsters has come at the cost of her connection to the human world. And when the Goblin King’s death ignites an ancient hunt for the next king, Soren senses an opportunity for her to finally fully accept the ways of the brutal Permafrost. But every action he takes to bring her deeper into his world only shows him that a little humanity isn’t bad—especially when it comes to those you care about.<br />
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Through every battle they survive, Janneke’s loyalty to Soren deepens. After dangerous truths are revealed, Janneke must choose between holding on or letting go of her last connections to a world she no longer belongs to. She must make the right choice to save the only thing keeping both worlds from crumbling.<br />
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<b>My Review:</b><br />
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Okay. So. Where to begin with this one? I liked it? I made the mistake of reading some other review before I started reading this book so I wasn't really sure what I'd decided to get into. I requested it from NetGalley because I was looking for something fantasy that would hold my attention. </div>
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This book was decent. I'm not familiar with Wattpad, so I don't know how it works and how things become popular or whatever. This book definitely had a lot of potential for me to really enjoy it, but there are just a few things that felt off to me. </div>
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I liked Janneke as a character. She's sarcastic and strong-willed, but also a little annoying? Janneke has been Soren's "thrall" for nearly a hundred years and she's <i>just now</i> thinking about escaping. We don't get a lot of background about their relationship, just that she goes everywhere with him and, though she's human, she isn't a "slave". (Only he owns her so she kind of is.) Soren is okay. He's not all "beastly" and she describes him as beautiful. He seems to treat others kindly and not behave like all the other goblins. </div>
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When the Golbin King is killed The Hunt begins and Soren elects to take Janneke, which makes everyone crazy because apparently they all hate her. I don't really know, there's not a lot of history on it. </div>
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Soren and Janneke's relationship is kind of weird. You can tell that he has feelings for her, but she obviously thinks he's gross for most of the book. This definitely has a <i>Beauty and the Beast </i>feel about it, considering how the relationship changes while these two are on The Hunt. </div>
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I felt like the majority of the story was Janneke doing things that just showed what a badass she was. You do get a little backstory on how she was raised to be "the male heir" (which didn't make sense, but okay) and so she was obviously trained in tracking and fighting. I'm assuming that one hundred years living with goblins helped that, too. </div>
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I liked the progression of the story and the relationships formed, but I definitely had some issues with some of the world building. It felt like the author took German legend, Norse mythology, Nordic folklore and then threw some knives to see which ideas she would use. More concrete storytelling and world building would have been nice. </div>
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Thanks to NetGalley for the ARC in exchange for a review. </div>
Ashleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07191125246064963107noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-63603716234212058.post-24699359381766960752019-01-06T14:38:00.002-05:002019-01-06T19:34:32.403-05:00(Review) Little Do We Know<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<i><b>Little Do We Know </b></i>by Tamara Ireland Stone</div>
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<b style="font-weight: bold;">Publication Date:</b><b> </b>June 5th, 2018</div>
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<b style="font-weight: bold;">Pages: </b>416 (hardcover)</div>
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<b style="font-weight: bold;">Genre: </b>Young Adult</div>
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<b style="font-weight: bold;">My Goodreads Rating:</b> 5 Stars</div>
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<b>Goodreads Synopsis: </b>Next-door neighbors and ex-best friends Hannah and Emory haven’t spoken in months. Not since the fight—the one where they said things they couldn’t take back.<br />
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Now, Emory is fine-tuning her UCLA performing arts application and trying to make the most of the months she has left with her boyfriend, Luke, before they head off to separate colleges. Meanwhile, Hannah’s strong faith is shaken when her family’s financial problems come to light, and she finds herself turning to unexpected places—and people—for answers to the difficult questions she’s suddenly facing.<br />
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No matter how much Hannah and Emory desperately want to bridge the thirty-six steps between their bedroom windows, they can’t. Not anymore.<br />
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Until their paths cross unexpectedly when, one night, Hannah finds Luke doubled over in his car outside her house. In the aftermath of the accident, all three struggle to understand what happened in their own ways. But when a devastating secret about Hannah and Emory’s argument ultimately comes to light, they must all reexamine the things they hold true.<br />
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In alternating chapters, a skeptic and a believer piece together the story of their complex relationship and the boy caught somewhere in the middle. New York Times best-selling author Tamara Ireland Stone deftly crafts a moving portrait of faith, love, and friendship.<br />
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<b>My Review: </b></div>
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I've been a fan of Tamara for a long time and I've always loved her words. A year or so again I even won a giveway she hosted, with an ARC of <i>Click'd</i> and the rest of her books signed. I add this in because I've never won anything and it makes me happy. </div>
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As the book starts Hannah and Emory are already not speaking to each other. Each first chapter gives you a little glimpse into who each girl is separately and then you get little tidbits of their friendship. I love that their friendship was strong, even though didn't go to the same school or run in the same circles. That, to me, says a lot about each girl.<br />
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I liked Hannah a little more than I liked Emory at first. Hannah is quiet, but has a lot of LOUD thoughts. It's hard for her to voice them though. Emory, it seemed, didn't have any trouble voicing her opinions. But, as I read, I learned more about Emory and started to feel for her also.<br />
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This really is a great story of friendships that build and mend. I was wary about Luke's role in the situation from reading the synopsis, but I was pleasantly surprised by how much I liked his relationship with Hannah. I thought their friendship was based on something real and true for both of them, and I loved the scenes of them together. Luke was an A+ friend and boyfriend.<br />
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When the truth came out, it was sad. Knowing what each girl was holding in for all those months is, especially when you think about how close they were to one another.<br />
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Tamara's words never fail to evoke the feels in me. I'm glad I picked this one up.<br />
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Ashleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07191125246064963107noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-63603716234212058.post-90647909673414624892019-01-01T21:25:00.001-05:002019-01-01T21:25:15.055-05:00(Review) You'd Be Mine <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<b><i>You'd Be Mine </i></b>by Erin Hahn</div>
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<b>Publication Date: </b>April 2nd, 2019</div>
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<b>Pages: </b>304 (hardcover)</div>
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<b>Genre:</b> Young Adult</div>
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<b>My Goodreads Rating:</b> 4 Stars</div>
<br /><br /><b>Goodreads Synopsis: </b>Annie Mathers is America’s sweetheart and heir to a country music legacy full of all the things her Gran warned her about. Superstar Clay Coolidge is most definitely going to end up one of those things. <br /><br />But unfortunately for Clay, if he can’t convince Annie to join his summer tour, his music label is going to drop him. That’s what happens when your bad boy image turns into bad boy reality. Annie has been avoiding the spotlight after her parents’ tragic death, except on her skyrocketing YouTube channel. Clay’s label wants to land Annie, and Clay has to make it happen. <br /><br />Swayed by Clay’s undeniable charm and good looks, Annie and her band agree to join the tour. From the start fans want them to be more than just tour mates, and Annie and Clay can’t help but wonder if the fans are right. But if there’s one part of fame Annie wants nothing to do with, it’s a high-profile relationship. She had a front row seat to her parents’ volatile marriage and isn’t interested in repeating history. If only she could convince her heart that Clay, with his painful past and head over heels inducing tenor, isn’t worth the risk.<div>
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<b>My Review: </b></div>
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First of all, anything you say is in the vein of Emory Lord...I'm gonna read it. I haven't seen A Star is Born, so I don't know if it's like that at all, but I first saw this book compared to <i>Open Road</i> <i>Summer</i> and here we are. </div>
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I received this book from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. </div>
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I pretty much loved Annie instantly. I don't often love characters right away, but Annie is quirky and smart and talented and I loved her. Annie has also had a not-so-easy life, so you feel for her. </div>
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Clay. Well. You can tell Clay needs help. He's a jerk, but it's all an act. He needs help. Love. Someone to set him straight. </div>
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The chemistry between Clay and Annie is instant and that's just fine with me. I loved their interactions and how they were constantly challenging each other. The descriptions of them singing together made you feel like you were out in the crowd watching it all go down. Erin did an great job making us all feel like we were there. </div>
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I loved pretty much everything about them. It wasn't too fast or slow. It all kind of felt just right. The way they shared things with each other that no one else knew let you know their true feelings and it was so sweet and innocent. </div>
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Even the drama and the ending was a perfect way to sum it all up. I'm definitely looking forward to more from this author! </div>
Ashleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07191125246064963107noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-63603716234212058.post-83034738758323262202019-01-01T20:56:00.001-05:002019-01-01T20:56:31.292-05:00(Review) The Rising Gold <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<b><i>The Rising Gold</i></b> by Ava Jae</div>
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<b>Pages:</b> 424 (hardcover)</div>
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<b>Genre:</b> Young Adult/Science Fiction</div>
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<b>My Goodreads Rating: </b>3 Stars</div>
<br /><b>Goodreads Synopsis: </b><br /><i>A new world ruler is crowned. </i><br />Plunged into a crumbling world of foreign politics that is desperate for a leader, Eros chooses a loyal prince to help him navigate the hostile sands of Safara. But not everyone is happy to see a half-blood become the most powerful person on the planet.<br /><br /><i>A queen must restore her nation.</i><br />In power once more, Kora faces new challenges and a difficult decision that puts someone close to her in mortal danger. The wrong choice could destroy her relationships, her right to rule, and her life.<br /><br /><i>A rebellion is brewing.</i><br />With their world collapsing around them, new threats spreading across the globe, and their loved ones at risk, the people of Safara―Sepharon and human alike―depend on Eros and Kora to fix their bleeding world. But with generations of hate stacked against them, the two young monarchs may be doomed to fail.<div>
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<b>My Review: </b></div>
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Where to start with this one. </div>
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Okay. When I read the first book in this trilogy I was SO EXCITED about what was going to happen. I got to read it as an ARC and I absolutely loved it. It had heartbreak and betrayal and space and shit. It was great. The second book was good, though things definitely took a different turn than the first one, and I'm fine with that. I love romances of all kinds, as long as it's done right. But my ship was kind of sunk and that made me sad. I didn't write a review for it, either, which sometimes means something, but also sometimes means I'm being lazy. </div>
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Onto the third book. This book was slow. For over 400 pages, it really didn't feel like a lot happened. Eros is Sira (world monarch) and Kora is back ruling in her own territory. They aren't close together and will never be together. Got it. </div>
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It doesn't matter anymore because Eros has completely fallen for his adviser, Deimos. Only he has never been in a relationship, much less a relationship with a guy, so there are issues. </div>
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But, seriously, it's kind of all he thinks about. And it's kind of annoying. There are some sweet moments between the two of them, but when Eros isn't thinking about how to hold Demios' hand or having panic attacks I don't feel like he's doing much of anything. I almost DNFd at about 40% until he finally punched someone and it was like THANK YOU FOR SHOWING UP. </div>
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Things continued to move slowly, even after he showed some kind of character. It felt like it was the same argument or scenes over and over and then the ending just...happened. Everything felt rushed and then it was over. </div>
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It was an okay end to the series, though I still have a lot of questions about some things that did or didn't happen. To me, it felt like the characters lost their passion from the first book to now. I don't know. I'm sure there are people who will love it and I sincerely hope they do! </div>
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Ashleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07191125246064963107noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-63603716234212058.post-54232482192600897332018-12-22T11:23:00.003-05:002018-12-22T11:26:47.639-05:00Ash's Top 18 Books of 2018So, I'm struggling. I'm struggling to find time to read, to find books I like, and to write this post. This year has been a horrible year of reading for me. I don't know if it was the stress of last year's class that kept me from starting the year strong, as it did the year before. (Is that mean, blaming it on my class from last year?) Maybe I just got too busy, I'm not sure! Either way, this is my lowest reading year in a long time. I didn't make my goal last year, and this year I challenged myself to read 75 (!!!) books. Right now I'm at 67 and 89% of my goal. Chances are that I'm not going to read seven books (I'm almost done with one now) by the end of the year, but I'm going to push through with this post, just for you.<br />
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It was kind of hard to even get through this list because there wasn't anything that I just truly loved and wanted to shout about. This year I started listening to a lot of books, which makes my drives to and from school a little bit better. It also helped me getting through my training runs for the Chicago Marathon. I also revisited two of my favorite series this year, one of which has TEN BOOKS, so I haven't read a lot of new stuff. Anyway, enough whining. Let's get on with it!<br />
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This year, for some strange reason, I reread every single book of the Percy Jackson series, starting with this one. There are five books in the original "The Olympians" series, and five books in the spinoff "Heroes of Olympus" series. (Okay, I skipped one book of the series because technically Percy isn't in it. It was <i>The Lost Hero</i> and I'm not sorry.) I'm sure I'll catch some flack for this, but I truly feel like this is an underdog series and it rivals <i>Harry Potter </i>in so many ways. Don't get me wrong, HP is amazing and has everything to go with it. PJ got shafted in the movie department, but the books are amazing. They are full of Greek heroes and magic and teen angst. It's a story of friendship and relationships and loss. I will rec this series until the day I die. It's funny and sad and snarky. If you like me, you should read it. (Yes, I said if <i>you like</i> me, not if <i>you're like</i> me...)</div>
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Continuing on with my love letter to Rick Riordan, I also took a chance on Magnus Chase this year. There are three books in this series about Magnus who dies and goes to Valhalla, learning that his father was a Norse god. Forget everything you know about Chris Hemsworth's version of Thor, because the one you meet in this series farts a lot. This series is also full of diverse characters and heartbreak. Kudos to Uncle Rick for stories he tells and the risks he takes with certain characters. </div>
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This was another reread series for me. Pierce Brown release <i>Iron Gold</i>, which is the fourth book in this series, but it takes place ten years after the third book. (I hope you followed that.) I can't bring myself to read <i>Iron Gold </i>just yet (that whole "struggling" thing), so I reread the first three books. Again, if you're into space and hints of mythology, heartache and murder...check this one out. Also, Pierce Brown is a super hot author. *insert shrug emoji here*</div>
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This one kept me guessing with all of it's twists and turns. I love the unlikely alliance between the four main characters and their different points of view. It's full of magic and hardships and hope. </div>
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This one took a bit for me to get into, but once I did...wow. "Your life is not your own" is an appropriate phrase because you really don't know what's going on until the very last page. It's part of a series, so definitely pick this one up if you're into futuristic robots and, well, deception kind of stories. </div>
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Wow. My love for WWII era books was satisfied with this. It's based on the sinking of the <i>Wilhelm Gustloff</i>, a huge maritime disaster that I didn't even know about. Though the characters are, of course, fictional, the things that could have happened to them are not. I love interpretations like that this that show that hope and love was alive in that time. (Hopefully.) </div>
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This one hurts a little. It's twins pitted against each other when one of them does the unthinkable. It's about grieving lost relationships and building new ones. Bonus points for LGBT main characters. </div>
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I will basically read anything Gayle Forman writes, so here we are. I love this idea of three strangers meeting and ultimately becoming best friends in the course of a day. Each of them have their own story to tell and I loved reading them. </div>
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It shouldn't really surprise you that a picture book is on this list. If you're a teacher or have kids, read this book. It's hilarious. My class and I died laughing reading it last year. </div>
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To quote John Green, I would read John Green's grocery list. </div>
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I loved this telling of stories and how they all came together in the end. A lovely tale of friendship and family. </div>
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Kasie West is a go-to for love and fluff with minimal angst. </div>
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Bad boy and good girl fall in love. Girl basically saves boy's life. Read this.</div>
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Three people with an empathy link. I'm hoping for a polyamorous relationship here. Don't judge me for saying that. The three main characters have an interesting dynamic and a strong will to live. Looking forward to the next installment. </div>
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Sometimes I read books simply because they are available and I need something to listen to on my ride to work. This story takes place in the present and on September 11th, 2001 and it's heartbreaking and uplifting. </div>
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Sometimes you get to read books because you have talented friends. Rochelle is lovely and so is this book and it's follow up. </div>
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If you dig mystery and family drama (who doesn't?), grab this. </div>
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Totally late to this party and currently listening to the third book in the series. Chimera, angels, humans, magic, love. So many things. I can't wait to see how it all ends. </div>
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So. There you have it. A large part of my reads this year were rereads, which means you should definitely check them out. Also, if you have any recs then send them my way! </div>
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Happy reading! </div>
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XOXO, </div>
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Ash <span style="text-align: center;"> </span></div>
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As always, here's Chris Evans reading for your time. </div>
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<br />Ashleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07191125246064963107noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-63603716234212058.post-5979248397208599292018-12-02T08:32:00.001-05:002018-12-02T08:32:12.528-05:00(Review) The Matchmaker's List<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<b><i>The Matchmaker's List</i></b> by Sonya Lalli</div>
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<b>Publication Date:</b> February 5th, 2019</div>
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<b>Pages:</b> 352 (hardcover)</div>
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<b>Genre:</b> Women's Fiction/Romance</div>
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<b>My Goodreads Rating:</b> 4 Stars</div>
<br /><b>First to Read Synopsis: </b><br />Raina Anand may have finally given in to family pressure and agreed to let her grandmother play matchmaker, but that doesn't mean she has to like it--or that she has to play by the rules. Nani always took Raina's side when she tried to push past the traditional expectations of their tight-knit Indian-immigrant community, but now she's ambushing Raina with a list of suitable bachelors. Is it too much to ask for a little space? Besides, what Nani doesn't know won't hurt her... <br /><br />As Raina's life spirals into a parade of Nani-approved bachelors and disastrous blind dates, she must find a way out of this modern-day arranged-marriage trap without shattering her beloved grandmother's dreams.</div>
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<b>My Review: </b></div>
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I went into this one thinking it would be a sort of fluffy romance, but it isn't really that. This is more of a standing your ground kind of story, and I appreciated that. </div>
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Was there romance? Sure. Was it sometimes not believable? Yes. Did I read the heck of out it? You be. </div>
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Raina is a tough girl. Truly. She's been raised by her Nani because her mom is a hot mess. And Nani, well, Nani just wants what's best for Raina. Rather, what she thinks is best for Raina. What Nani wants for Raina is a husband. </div>
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Raina agrees to let Nani set her up on dates. What she doesn't know is that Nani is also on an Indian dating website and is kind of running her mouth all over the Indian community.</div>
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I liked Raina, though she could be a little rough sometimes. She was kind of selfish, but I think that came with her growing up without a mother and wanting to forge her own path. There's a point where I got really angry at her and her actions, but I know she learned from it. It might be hard for others to see past it, however. </div>
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A quick, kind of fun read with a swoony boy. Check it out. </div>
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ARC provided by First to Read. </div>
Ashleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07191125246064963107noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-63603716234212058.post-61808815460623550342018-11-21T16:02:00.001-05:002018-11-21T16:02:23.019-05:00(Review) The Winter Sister <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<i><b>The Winter Sister</b></i> by Megan Collins </div>
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<b>Publication Date:</b> February 5th, 2019</div>
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<b>Pages:</b> 320 (hardcover)</div>
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<b>Genre:</b> Mystery/Thriller </div>
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<b>My Goodreads Rating:</b> 4 Stars</div>
<br /><b>Goodreads Synopsis: </b><br />In the present day, Sylvie returns home to care for her estranged mother, Annie, as she undergoes treatment for cancer. Prone to unexplained “Dark Days” even before Persephone’s death, Annie’s once-close bond with Sylvie dissolved in the weeks after their loss, making for an uncomfortable reunion all these years later. Worse, Persephone’s former boyfriend, Ben, is now a nurse at the cancer center where Annie is being treated. Sylvie’s always believed Ben was responsible for the murder—but she carries her own guilt about that night, guilt that traps her in the past while the world goes on around her.<br /><br />As she navigates the complicated relationship with her mother, Sylvie begins to uncover the secrets that fill their house—and what really happened the night Persephone died. As it turns out, the truth really will set you free, once you can bear to look at it.<br /><br />The Winter Sister is a mesmerizing portrayal of the complex bond between sisters, between mothers and daughters alike, and forces us to ask ourselves—how well do we really know the people we love most?<div>
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<b>My Review: </b></div>
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This book had me hooked instantly and kept me until the very last page. That's not always the case for me, especially if I'm not reading a fluffy YA romance. It came to me with a "if you like Megan Miranda" tagline, so I dove in. </div>
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The story starts with Sylvie the night her sister disappears. Sylvie's young and Persephone has snuck out to be with her boyfriend, whom Sylvie things abuses her sister because she always comes back covered in bruises. Persephone has been forbidden to date so Sylvie is the one who lies for her. But Sylvie gets tired of lying for her sister. And then her sister never comes home. </div>
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After Persephone's death, things with Sylvie and her mom get worse. She's practically raised by her aunt and manages to get into art school and eventually move away. When her mother gets sick and her aunt can't help anymore, Sylvie comes home. </div>
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I love the dark feel of Sylvie, knowing that she's trying but she's also still suffering so much. She lives a sad, simple life and no one, not even her family truly knows her. I definitely got some Gillian Flynn vibes from Sylvie. She's obsessive and angry, but uses it to find her answers. When she see's Ben again she immediately goes to the police like a crazy person. I can definitely appreciate the drama with her. </div>
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Persephone's story unfolds quickly, not too many unnecessary things happening. The story unfolded nicely and I really liked the interactions between Ben and Sylvie. Annie's story is sad, but it worked well with the story. I would have liked to have had more with Ben and Sylvie, so I ended up with four stars. </div>
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Huge thanks to the publisher and NetGalley for providing and ARC free of charge. </div>
Ashleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07191125246064963107noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-63603716234212058.post-62531340302728157782018-11-11T20:20:00.003-05:002018-11-11T20:20:47.208-05:00(Review) Hero at the Fall <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<i><b>Hero at the Fall</b></i> by Alwyn Hamilton</div>
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<b>Publication Date:</b> March 6th, 2018</div>
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<b>Pages:</b> 463 (hardcover)</div>
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<b>Genre: </b>Young Adult Fantasy</div>
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<b>My Goodreads Rating:</b> 4 Stars</div>
<br /><b>Goodreads Synopsis: </b>When gunslinging Amani Al'Hiza escaped her dead-end town, she never imagined she'd join a revolution, let alone lead one. But after the bloodthirsty Sultan of Miraji imprisoned the Rebel Prince Ahmed in the mythical city of Eremot, she doesn't have a choice. Armed with only her revolver, her wits, and her untameable Demdji powers, Amani must rally her skeleton crew of rebels for a rescue mission through the unforgiving desert to a place that, according to maps, doesn't exist. As she watches those she loves most lay their lives on the line against ghouls and enemy soldiers, Amani questions whether she can be the leader they need or if she is leading them all to their deaths.<br /><br /><b>My Review: </b><br />
It's been a hot minute since I've actually had time to sit down and read a book, let alone write a review for one. I've been doing a lot of "ear reading" since school started in August. Mostly meaning I've been listening to books as I drive to and from school and while I've been training for a marathon (that's finally over, thank heavens). I've had this book sitting around for months and I finally got to pick it up after starting it forever ago. Part of me was dreading finishing it. I knew it was going to hurt, and I was afraid of just how bad it would.<br />
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The book picks up after the cliffhanger in the second book. You know, where we think the Rebel Prince was just been murdered and the rebellion lost. Well, the rebellion is kind of lost. Things aren't exactly grand under Amani's rule and there aren't many people of the rebellion left, to be honest. The group doesn't know who to trust, they don't have many supplies, and things are hard.<br />
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They make it work, though. Somehow. I liked the way that what was left of the group revolved around Amani. She's someone who came from nothing and, while she had a hard time, it was clear that the rebellion respected her.<br />
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Their trials were hard. The battles were harder. So many people were lost, in this book alone, that it was starting to feel kind of bleak toward the end. I loved how much Amani grew from the first book in the series to this one. Though she was still young, she became such a leader in the rebellion. She learned to sacrifice for others, not just herself.<br />
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And y'all...don't even get me started on Jin. Like, as is he wasn't swoon-worthy enough in the other books! The way their relationship grew and kind of came to a peak in this book was perfect for them.<br />
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The ending was as I expected it would be. I loved the little stories that were mixed in with the regular chapters. They were a nice little extra to what "might've been".<br />
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A good ending to a good series. (Though I could always go for more Jin.)Ashleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07191125246064963107noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-63603716234212058.post-66747204579654555782018-09-04T21:00:00.001-04:002018-09-04T21:00:57.014-04:00(Review) Give the Dark My Love<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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T<b><i>Give the Dark My Love</i></b> by Beth Revis</div>
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<b>Publication Date:</b> September 25, 2018</div>
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<b>Pages:</b> 456 (kindle)</div>
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<b>Genre:</b> Young Adult Fantasy</div>
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<b>My Goodreads Rating:</b> 4 Stars</div>
<br /><b>Goodreads Synopsis:</b><div>
When seventeen-year-old Nedra Brysstain leaves her home in the rural, northern territories of Lunar Island to attend the prestigious Yugen Academy, she has only one goal in mind: learn the trade of medicinal alchemy. A scholarship student matriculating with the children of Lunar Island's wealthiest and most powerful families, Nedra doesn't quite fit in with the other kids at Yugen, who all look down on her. <br /><br />All, except for Greggori "Grey" Astor. Grey is immediately taken by the brilliant and stubborn Nedra, who he notices is especially invested in her studies. And that's for a good reason: a deadly plague has been sweeping through the North, and it's making its way toward the cities. With her family's life--and the lives of all of Lunar Island's citizens--on the line, Nedra is determined to find a cure for the plague. <br /><br />Grey and Nedra continue to grow closer, but as the sickness spreads and the body count rises, Nedra becomes desperate to find a cure. Soon, she finds herself diving into alchemy's most dangerous corners--and when she turns to the most forbidden practice of all, necromancy, even Grey might not be able to pull her from the darkness. </div>
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<b>My Review: </b></div>
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I've been a fan of Beth Revis for a while, though the last book I picked up for hers was kind of a bust for me. I was excited to pick this one up from First to Read, though. I've never read any kind of book about alchemy (that I know of), so I was looking forward to delving into a new topic for me. </div>
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I loved Nedra pretty much immediately. She loves her family and even wishes to sacrifice her education for them, but they won't have it. Nedra is whisked off to the big city for her training. Her goal is the help find the cure for the sickness that is plaguing her land and her people. </div>
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School isn't easy for her. She's a good student and as the head professor takes her under his wing for special training, the others start to talk. Only Grey is on her side. As Nedra gets deeper into her studies she also falls deeper into the temptation to use the darkest part of alchemy.</div>
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I love the strength of Nedra throughout the entire book. She shows little weakness when it comes to Grey or her family, and keeps her focus on finding the cure for the sickness. This book is definitely twisty. You don't always know who to trust or who is on the right side...or which side is the right one! </div>
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Grey is kind of swoony, but is absolutely the weaker of the two characters, though he doesn't really seem to mind standing in Nedra's shadow. He wants to help her, to love her, but it's hard for him sometimes. Nedra is very complex and Grey isn't always sure how to help her. </div>
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I'm definitely looking forward to the rest of this series and what else Beth has in store for us. </div>
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Ashleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07191125246064963107noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-63603716234212058.post-61579078104670818262018-07-22T21:25:00.001-04:002018-07-22T21:30:46.461-04:00(Review) The Raging Ones<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<i><b>The Raging Ones</b></i><b> by Krista & Becca Ritchie</b></div>
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<b>Publication Date:</b> August 14, 2018</div>
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<b>Pages:</b> 400 (kindle)</div>
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<b>Genre:</b> Young Adult/Science Fiction</div>
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<b>My Goodreads Rating:</b> 4 Stars</div>
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<b>Synopsis: </b>An edge of your seat sci-fi romance with twists and turns that you will never see coming!<br />
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In a freezing world, where everyone knows the day they will die, three teens break all odds.<br />
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Franny Bluecastle, a tough city teen, dreams of dying in opulence, to see wealth she’s never known. Like the entire world, she believes it’s impossible to dodge a deathday.<br />
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Until the day she does.<br />
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Court Icecastle knows wealth. He also knows pain. Spending five years in Vorkter Prison, a fortress of ice and suffering, he dreams of life beyond the people that haunt him and the world that imprisoned him.<br />
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Mykal Kickfall fights for those he loves. The rugged Hinterlander shares a frustrating yet unbreakable connection with Court—which only grows more lawless and chaotic as their senses and emotions connect with Franny.<br />
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With the threat of people learning they’ve dodged their deathdays, they must flee their planet to survive. But to do so, all three will have to hide their shared bond as they vie for a highly sought after spot in the newest mission to space. Against thousands of people far smarter, who’ll live longer, and never fear death the way that they do.<br />
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<b>My Review: </b></div>
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Guyssssss. Sometimes it's really hard for me to get into sci-fi because it's just too...much? If it gets too technical and there are too many made up words/things it starts to not make sense to me. </div>
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<i>The Raging Ones</i> is simple, but I don't mean that in a bad way. The story is told from three different POV, those of the main characters Franny, Court, and Mykal. </div>
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Court and Mykal are linked through their senses and feelings, for some reason neither one of them understand. All they know is that they both dodged their deathday and they became linked. As the two of them are on a mission to earn cash to get them into StarDust, they <i>feel</i> Franny. </div>
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Soon enough they fall into a routine, the three of them. The become friends, in a way. Mykal is a bear of a boy, with a soft inside, while Court is the complete opposite. It's obvious he's the brains of the operation and the other two just seem to be along for the ride. I know they all have the same thing in mind and they are all worried about people finding out about their problems, but I couldn't really find a lot of feelings for Mykal. Franny grew on me, but Court is the only one who truly has a troubled past. </div>
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Court was easily my favorite character and he clearly carries the other two. Their relationships are complicated and it was fun to see the different ways they interacted with each other. Court is rough and I loved seeing how he let the others in. </div>
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The action is good, if not a little glossed over. The story definitely focuses more on the relationships and plot than all of the action. </div>
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The ending was all sorts of crazy, confusing action however. When things come crashing down for Court the other two are there to help him and to save him. There are also a few fun characters that help and hurt the trio. You'll love and hate them. </div>
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And you'll be on the edge of year seat after the ending. I know I was was. </div>
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So. When does the second book come out? </div>
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Thanks to NetGalley and the the publisher for the ARC. </div>
Ashleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07191125246064963107noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-63603716234212058.post-23279902575414814292018-07-19T09:31:00.002-04:002018-07-19T09:31:59.789-04:00(Review) Beautiful Mess <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<b><i>Beautiful Mess </i></b>by Claire Christian</div>
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<b style="font-weight: bold;">Publication Date:</b> August 27, 2017</div>
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<b style="font-weight: bold;">Pages:</b> 304<b> </b>(kindle)</div>
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<b style="font-weight: bold;">Genre:</b> Young Adult </div>
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<b style="font-weight: bold;">My Goodreads Rating:</b> 1-2 Stars</div>
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<b>Synopsis: </b>Since Ava lost Kelly, things haven’t been going so well. Even before she gets thrown out of school for shouting at the principal, there’s the simmering rage and all the weird destructive choices. The only thing going right for Ava is her job at Magic Kebab.<br /><br />Which is where she meets Gideon. Skinny, shy, anxious Gideon. A mad poet and collector of vinyl records with an aversion to social media. He lives in his head. She lives in her grief. The only people who can help them move on with their lives are each other.<br /><br /><b>My Review:</b><div>
Do you ever wonder if you've read the same book as other people? That's how I feel about <i>Beautiful Mess</i>. </div>
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This book had a lot of potential. I love a story that brings characters out of grief with the help of love, but this didn't really feel like that kind of story. </div>
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Ava is devastated when her best friend Kelly commits suicide. She lashes out during a school assembly, punches a classmate, and gets kicked out of school. It's at work where she meets Gideon (who goes to the same school as her but she's never noticed). Gideon is quiet and smart. He's got issues of his own. At first you think it's just social anxiety but you later find out he used to self-harm, to cope, Gideon writes slam poetry. </div>
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The relationship starts easy. They are friends. Gideon writes letters to Ava because he's on a self imposed break from the internet and phones. (It turns out some kids started a website about him for no real reason.) The letters are cute enough, but there's no real depth to anything, in my opinion. </div>
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The two obviously grow closer even though Ava has a very strange relationship with Kelly's older brother, Lincoln. Ava makes Gideon feel brave, but in the sense of "I just had sex" or "I hit someone". I didn't really see any growth from either of the characters. Ava is still selfish and rude, while Gideon depends on Ava to be "better". </div>
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The format of this book was also very strange. I don't know if it was my copy or not. I couldn't tell when the POV changes were and it made the whole thing very confusing. So. Interesting premise. I wish it could have been more. </div>
Ashleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07191125246064963107noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-63603716234212058.post-31845915710650372692018-07-12T22:14:00.004-04:002018-07-12T22:14:58.323-04:00(Review) Brighter<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<b><i>Brighter</i></b> by Rochelle Allison</div>
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<b>Publication Date:</b> December 3rd, 2017</div>
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<b>Pages:</b> 247 (kindle)</div>
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<b>Genre:</b> Contemporary Romance</div>
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<b>My Goodreads Rating:</b> 4 stars</div>
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<b>Synopsis: </b></div>
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Sometimes the detour gets us home faster than the main road ever could... </div>
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Overachiever Alina Wright has two goals: blaze through grad school, and snag a job in marine conservation. Her academic career has always been meticulously planned and executed, so when a summer internship fall through, she’s at a loss. </div>
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Until her friend-with-benefits, Theo, invites her on a trip to the tropics...no strings, no expectations. </div>
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Days of glimmering beaches and nights dancing beneath the stars, a vibrant culture and a community of close friends, life on St. Croix is meant to be savored. Things with Theo cool, but other passions fire up and it doesn’t take long for Alina to fall in love with the island—or with Jude Larsen, the irresistible bartender downtown. </div>
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All vacations come to an end. Will Alina navigate back to her safe, carefully scripted life, or will she take a chance on something brighter? </div>
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<b>My Review: </b></div>
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I've "known" Rochelle through social media for a number of years, so when she offered up an ARC of her new story <i style="font-weight: bold;">Brightest</i> I jumped at the chance. Of course, I had to read <b><i>Brighter</i> </b>first. </div>
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I grabbed this as soon as I could and completely devoured it in a couple of hours. Literally. </div>
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Alina is an easy character to fall in love with. She's smart and funny and passionate about her hopes and dreams. The book starts off with some bad news for Alina, but she takes it all in stride. Instead of moping about she takes up Theo's offer to go to St. Croix. She and Theo obviously have history and it's very clear to everyone that they know. </div>
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I liked Theo, but I didn't like him with Alina. She is smart and driven, while I feel like Theo was just kind of coasting through life. That might be an unfair assessment but, like Alina, you're really going to like Jude. </div>
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There's an instant attraction with Jude, and you can tell it's mutual. He has one moment where he is less than worthy, but quickly makes up for it and apologizes. </div>
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<i style="font-weight: bold;">Brighter</i> is definitely a slow burn type of story. It's sexy and fun, but also very sweet. Alina finds a new purpose for her life after her lost internship and after Theo. She learns a lot about herself throughout the book she truly discovers what she wants from life. I loved reading about her explorations and the new relationships she found on the island. </div>
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This book has a variety of lovable and eclectic characters you'll want to fall for. Pick it up, check it out, and wait around for <i style="font-weight: bold;">Brightest</i>. It'll be worth it. </div>
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Ashleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07191125246064963107noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-63603716234212058.post-64768548459809406902018-07-09T17:23:00.001-04:002018-07-09T17:23:06.291-04:00(Review) LIFEL1K3<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<b><i>LIFEL1K3</i></b> by Jay Kristoff</div>
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<b>Publication Date: </b>May 29th, 2018</div>
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<b>Pages:</b> 416 (kindle)</div>
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<b>Genre:</b> Young Adult</div>
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<b>My Goodreads Rating:</b> 3 stars</div>
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<b>Synopsis: </b><br />On an island junkyard beneath a sky that glows with radiation, a deadly secret lies buried in the scrap. Seventeen-year-old Eve isn't looking for trouble--she's too busy looking over her shoulder. The robot gladiator she spent months building has been reduced to a smoking wreck, she's on the local gangster's wanted list, and the only thing keeping her grandpa alive is the money she just lost to the bookies. Worst of all, she's discovered she can somehow destroy machines with the power of her mind, and a bunch of puritanical fanatics are building a coffin her size because of it. If she's ever had a worse day, Eve can't remember it. <div>
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The problem is, Eve has had a worse day--one that lingers in her nightmares and the cybernetic implant where her memories used to be. Her discovery of a handsome android named Ezekiel--called a "Lifelike" because they resemble humans--will bring her world crashing down and make her question whether her entire life is a lie. With her best friend Lemon Fresh and her robotic sidekick Cricket in tow, Eve will trek across deserts of glass, battle unkillable bots, and infiltrate towering megacities to save the ones she loves...and learn the truth about the bloody secrets of her past.</div>
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<b>My Review: </b></div>
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It's been a while since I've fallen for a book. Normally when I find something that hooks me it's a fluffy YA or romance, so this was a great surprise. I haven't read any of Jay's other books, but I'm definitely in for this series, I know that! </div>
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LIFEL1K3 starts with Eve, our main character, gambling all her money away on bot fighting.Only she's the one who has built the bot and is fighting in it. Her friends, Cricket and Lemon try to help her, but Eve still loses. Just as she's about to get crushed, something miraculous happens. The bot crumples with just a scream and an outstretched hand from Eve. </div>
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Now, she's on everyone's hit list. As she and Lemon scavenger a helicopter wreck and find the pilot with it's arm ripped off that also happens to be a "lifelike", the danger just gets thicker. When the lifelike turns out to be a friend, that knows Eve's grandfather (who has just been kidnapped by another lifelike), and the home that she knew is destroyed everything starts to unravel. </div>
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As you learn more about Eve's past and her family, you start to understand a little of the life that she knows and of the life she can't remember. Eve's past is a big, sticky, bloody mess and Ezekiel holds many of the pieces. </div>
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But he doesn't hold them all. </div>
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Guys. This story is full of twists and turns. I feel like I can't even put a synopsis into words myself. With every chapter I learned something knew about Eve, Ezekiel, and literally every other character. This story is like an onion, peeling away each layer to get down deep. </div>
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The ending left me shocked, a little upset, and absolutely wanting more. I can't wait to see how Eve's story plays out. </div>
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Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the ARC. </div>
Ashleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07191125246064963107noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-63603716234212058.post-48885024234317696592018-06-28T11:16:00.003-04:002018-06-28T11:16:59.081-04:00(Review) How Far We Go and How Fast <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<b><i>How Far We Go and How Fast</i></b> by Nora Decter</div>
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<b>Publication Date:</b> September 25, 2018</div>
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<b>Pages:</b> 264 (paperback)</div>
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<b>Genre:</b> Young Adult</div>
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<b>My Goodreads Rating:</b> 3 stars</div>
<br /><b>Synopsis: </b><br />Sixteen-year-old Jolene, named after the girl in the Dolly Parton song, is from a long line of lowlifes, but at least they're musical lowlifes. Her mother is a tanning-salon manager who believes she can channel her karaoke habit into a professional singing career. Jolene's dad, a failed bass player, has gone back to the family demolition business and lives by the company motto: "We do not build things; we only tear them down." But Jolene and her big brother, Matt, are true musicians, writing songs together that make everything Jo hates about their lives matter less.<br /><br />When Matt up and leaves in the middle of the night, Jo loses her only friend, her support system and the one person who made her feel cool. As it becomes clear that Matt is never coming back, Jo must use music to navigate her loss.<br /><br /><br /><b>My Review: </b><br /><div>
I was looking for a sweet redemption story when I grabbed this one and was kind of granted my wish with it. Though the story starts out slow, it eventually picks up into something that somewhat kept my attention. </div>
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Jolene is just...a sad character. Her brother left her and all she thinks about is how she can pawn stuff and how far it will get her. She doesn't go to school, but she pretends to be a student at a nearby college. There, she meets some "friends" and kind of comes back to life. </div>
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But only a little. </div>
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She struggles so much with her brother "leaving" that often times she doesn't even get out of bed. Even when her mother, who has never been a real mother, starts to get sober and get her life on track, Jolene still struggles. </div>
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It isn't until over halfway through the book do you realize that Matt didn't just leave- he's dead. Jolene's behavior starts to make sense and it takes a real wake up call for her to get her act together. </div>
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I did enjoy the last half of the book as I read about how Jolene was getting her life back on track. There are some great side characters in this book that you'll love more than Jolene, including her hot mess mom and new best friends. </div>
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This was a nice little redemption story, even if it took a while to get to that point. Family and sibling dramas always call to me and this one was worth the read. Check it out in September. </div>
Ashleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07191125246064963107noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-63603716234212058.post-83659339297684540972018-06-20T18:42:00.003-04:002018-06-20T18:44:00.691-04:00(Review) Order of Protection <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<i><b>Order of Protection </b></i>by Lexi Blake</div>
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<b>Publication Date:</b> June 5, 2018</div>
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<b>Pages:</b> 336 (kindle)</div>
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<b>Genre: </b>Contemporary Romance</div>
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<b>My Goodreads Rating:</b> 3 stars</div>
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<b>Synopsis: </b><br />
To high-end defense attorney Henry Garrison, Win Hughes is a woman he met during one of the most trying times of his life. She's soft and warm, and he finds solace in their brief relationship. But Win has a secret. She's actually Taylor Winston-Hughes--born to one of the wealthiest families in the country, orphaned as a child by a tragic accident. Win moves in the wealthiest circles, but her lavish lifestyle hides her pain. <br />
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When her best friend is murdered in the midst of a glittering New York gala, Win's charged with the crime, and the only person in the world she wants to see is Henry. <br />
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Henry is shocked at the true identity of his lover, but he can't reject the case. This trial could take his new firm into the stratosphere. Still, he's not getting burned by Win again. And yet every turn brings them closer together. <br />
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As the case takes a wild turn and Win's entire life is upended, she must look to the people she's closest to in order to find a killer. And Henry must decide between making his case and saving the woman he loves...<br />
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<b>My Review: </b><br />
I've never read anything from Lexi Blake, but I was enjoyed this one. I'm sometimes wary of romance stories for a lot of reasons. This book definitely had its flaws but was a good read overall. <br />
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When Henry first meets Win he has no idea who she is. He thinks she's a townie, like him, when she runs by his house on the beach. Things heat up right away between the two of them, which is one of the problems I had with the story. Henry is absolutely an alpha male and has a severe need to prove it since his marriage fell apart, very publically. <br />
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The two come to an agreement and once their time is up, they don't have anymore contact. <br />
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Until Win gets convicted of murder and she needs the Monster of Manhattan to represent her. <br />
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Henry is furious when he finds out the truth and chaos sort of ensues from there. His need to prove himself and be the jerk AND the hero was a little annoying. I didn't really like Henry at all and, to be honest, I didn't feel like he deserved Win. She'd made a life for herself despite all of her hardships and was trying to make herself a better person. <br />
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When everything hits the fan it was definitely a good story. I liked the twist a lot and was kind of glad that it all worked out the way it did. Win was a good character and deserved her happy ending. <br />
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I'm interested to see how the rest of this series plays out. Ashleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07191125246064963107noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-63603716234212058.post-89854361774909856182018-06-19T13:01:00.004-04:002018-06-19T13:07:29.347-04:00Top Ten Tuesday: Books to Read at the Beach<br />
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Ah, sweet summertime! I love that this week's <a href="http://www.thatartsyreadergirl.com/top-ten-tuesday/" target="_blank">Top Ten Tuesday</a> is books to read at the beach/pool. I, however, do most of my reading on my couch. So. I'm going to list some of my favorite easy reads and maybe some books I have on my To Be Read list. (There are so many on my TBR list, it's not even funny.) Anywho, here we go.<br />
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<b>Favorite Reads: </b><br />
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There are just a few of the books I'm looking forward to reading this summer and some of the books I could read over and over. I'm hoping to do another book club with <i>The Husband's Secret</i>. I just finished one with <i>Little Fires Everywhere</i> and it was fun. </div>
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What's on your summer TBR? </div>
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I've also started watching One Tree Hill from the beginning again, so. We'll see how this reading goes. </div>
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Happy reading! </div>
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Ashleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07191125246064963107noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-63603716234212058.post-29801572605316006782018-06-18T18:41:00.001-04:002018-06-18T18:47:39.411-04:00(Review) The Art of French Kissing <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<i><b>The Art of French Kissing </b></i>by Brianna R. Shrum</div>
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<b>Publication Date:</b> June 5, 2018</div>
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<b>Pages: </b>256 (paperback)</div>
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<b>Genre: </b>Young Adult/Romance</div>
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<b>My Goodreads Rating:</b> 4 stars</div>
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<b>Goodreads Synopsis: </b>Seventeen-year-old Carter Lane has wanted to be a chef since she was old enough to ignore her mom's warnings to stay away from the hot stove. And now she has the chance of a lifetime: a prestigious scholarship competition in Savannah, where students compete all summer in Chopped style challenges for a full-ride to one of the best culinary schools in the country. The only impossible challenge ingredient in her basket: Reid Yamada.<br />
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After Reid, her cute but unbearably cocky opponent, goes out of his way to screw her over on day one, Carter vows revenge, and soon they're involved in a full-fledged culinary war. Just as the tension between them reaches its boiling point, Carter and Reid are forced to work together if they want to win, and Carter begins to wonder if Reid's constant presence in her brain is about more than rivalry. And if maybe her desire to smack his mouth doesn't necessarily cancel out her desire to kiss it.<br />
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<b>My Review: </b></div>
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Oh, this was cuuuuute. I love a good, fluffy and fun romance and this one hit the spot. </div>
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Carter is a fun character, right from the start. I fell in love with her reading about how she would make a grilled cheese sandwich. Yeah, it was that good. You feel for Carter immediately because you know how much she wants to win the competition. She's also kind of weird and awkward...very relatable. </div>
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Reid is obviously smart and adorable, and clearly matched as Carter's worst enemy. I love that their relationship is automatically mortal enemies. There is no chill between the two of them and it's so fun. </div>
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The rivalry is definitely a huge part of the story, but so are their little late night rendezvous. Those are the times, when they aren't in the kitchen, where the real magic happens. Each little conversation or smile is just a little step in the right direction for them. </div>
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I love how these two change and begin to work together instead of apart. The way they share responsibilities in the kitchen and how they complement each other is very well written. </div>
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There's always the drama, but it didn't feel cheap. It worked and so did that happy ending. </div>
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Thanks to Edelweiss for the ARC.</div>
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Ashleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07191125246064963107noreply@blogger.com0