General
A Court of Thorns and Roses
Series: book 1
Pages: 432
Genre: Fantasy, romance, action, teen
Rating: Five stars

Buy it here: Amazon

When nineteen-year-old huntress Feyre kills a wolf in the woods, a beast-like creature arrives to demand retribution for it. Dragged to a treacherous magical land she only knows about from legends, Feyre discovers that her captor is not an animal, but Tamlin--one of the lethal, immortal faeries who once ruled their world. 

As she dwells on his estate, her feelings for Tamlin transform from icy hostility into a fiery passion that burns through every lie and warning she's been told about the beautiful, dangerous world of the Fae. But an ancient, wicked shadow over the faerie lands is growing, and Feyre must find a way to stop it . . . or doom Tamlin--and his world--forever.

A Court of Thorns and Roses is a different take on Beauty and the Beast. When I had originally read the synopsis, it didn't hit me that it was a re-tell of Beauty and the Beast. So when I started to read, I found bits and pieces that tied it together. 

I'm not sure what I was expecting from this story, but it's amazing. I was worried the hype wouldn't be up to the standard everyone said it was, but I decided to read it anything, I'm glad I did!

I love the wording and beautiful imagery in this book. The words leap right off the page, embedding itself into my mind, making the images clear and amazing. Here is a quote I liked:

"I eased into a more comfortable position and calmed my breathing, straining to listen to the forest over the wind. The snow fell and fell, dancing and curling like sparkling spindrifts, the white fresh and clean against the brown and gray of the world. And despite myself, despite my numb limbs, I quieted that relentless, vicious part of my mind to take in the snow-veiled woods."

Feyre (Fay-ruh) and her family are poor, living on the little pay they get from her hunting. Though she goes hungry, Feyre doesn't complain a lot. To her, family comes first and she'd rather they be protected from the winter elements and not be hungry. 

Her family used to be quite wealthy, but something happened and her father ended up hurt, meaning he couldn't work anymore. They lost their home, and it became tough. Her father is in his own little world, leaving the harsh realities for Feyre to deal with. 

Feyre's sisters aren't helping matters. Nesta hates their father and lets it known. She wants her old life back, filled with money and dresses. Elaine is the free spirit of the three. She's adorable and loves flowers, yet is still innocent to the world and doesn't know how to help Feyre. The dynamic between these three was interesting. We didn't get to see them together a lot, which is unfortunate because they're interesting. 

The world that Feyre lives in is different. War and an invisible wall has separated the Fae and humans. To humans, fae are terrible creatures that just want to enslave them. But Fayre learns that not everything is as it seems. After doing something she shouldn't have done, Tamlin shows up as the beast and takes her to his home.

Tamlin is the High Lord of the Sping Court, his place to rule over. A curse has been put over everyone, making the masks they wore to a party permanently stuck to their face. His emissary and friend, Lucien, is a comedic relief at times, as Tamlin is very beast like in the beginning. He's unsure, shy, and angry, and in my opinion, one of the best beasts I've read. They are both wolves, and I would love to see more of that transition in the next book, as they didn't turn full wolf very often. 

The romance between Tamlin and Feyre is wonderful. I love these two together, and when they're apart, I want to cry (when they're apart, it's not good-heads up). Here is a quote from a scene with them. Here they are dancing in a secluded area:

"I was as unburdened as a piece of dandelion fluff, and he was the wind that stirred me about the world. 

He smiled at me, and I found myself smiling back. I didn't need to pretend, didn't need to be anything but what I was right then, being twirled about the meadow, the will-o-the-wisps dancing around us like dozens of moons."

And...

"His lips brushed mine-testing, soft and warm. He pulled back a little. He was still staring at me, and I stared back as he kissed me again, harder, but nothing like the way he'd kissed my neck."

This is a wonderful, action packed romance with fantasy elements. It's a different and good take on Beauty and the Beast. It's now one of my favorite books. Feyre is strong, brave, and will do anything for love. This is a series, but the end isn't really a cliffhanger, which is nice. 

Book Review: Forgotten Darkness-Sarra Cannon

General
Forgotten Darkness
Series: Beautiful Darkness (#2)
Pages: 292
Genre: fantasy, romance
Rating: Five stars

Buy it here: Amazon

The battle against the emerald priestess turned the peace at Brighton Manor into ashes. Lea and Aerden are prisoners in the King's City. Jackson is out of his mind with grief and anger. And Harper--the one who once united them all--is gone.

Before they can regain their freedom and find their way back to one another, they will each have to face their past and fight to claim a better future.

But for one of them, it may already be too late.

*I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review*

Forgotten Darkness is book 2 in this series, but it follows Harper and many others who are in the Peachville Demons series. This is not meant to be a stand-alone.

Well, another story read. I just finished it a few moments ago, and honestly, don't know what to say. First off, I'll begin with the author. Sarra is such an amazing writer, I've read every single one of her books more than five times, and I never tire of the worlds she creates. This story wasn't any different.

This story starts from where we left off in book 1-kind of. Harper is in a home for girls, but it's like an asylum for the crazy. She's being kept there against her will, her memories taken away from her. For anyone who has read about Harper, you know she's a fighter, and won't let a silly witch take away everything she holds dear-Jackson.

Harper fights the entire time, even when you think she can't possibly move past this. She has gone through a lot, and I'm sure it's not over yet. I loved her strength in this one, her determination never ceases to amaze me.

Jackson is also fighting. He's doing everything possible to get Harper back. I've always loved Jackson. He's amazing, hot, and won't back down until he gets what he wants. And in this story, he wants Harper safe in his arms. I love being in his mind. Here is a quote I really like:

"Being in the castle was difficult. She was everywhere, and she was nowhere. Her absence was a constant knife in my heart. So I left as often as I could. I hunter. I killed. I destroyed those who worked for my enemy, and their deaths were a drug that numbed the pain, if only for a while."

He's the best.

We also have Lea's and Aerden's POV. I loved reading from theirs and seeing what they go through. Aerden is being held by guards, keeping him locked away. And Lea is at her parents castle though she loathes to be there.

This is told from the four POV's. It's an amazing read, I recommend this series, anything by the author really. I'm looking forward to the next book! This ending was crazy, and I'm looking forward to seeing how the story will play out. For sure wasn't expecting the way it ending. So, Sarra, you have the next book done, right? :)

Book Review: The Reflections of Queen Snow White-David Meredith

General
The Reflections of Queen Snow White
Pages: 155
Genre: Sci-fi, fantasy, romance
Rating: Four stars

Buy it here: Amazon

On the eve of her only daughter, Princess Raven's wedding, an aging Snow White finds it impossible to share in the joyous spirit of the occasion. The ceremony itself promises to be the most glamorous social event of the decade. Snow White’s castle has been meticulously scrubbed, polished and opulently decorated for the celebration. It is already nearly bursting with jubilant guests and merry well-wishers. Prince Edel, Raven's fiancé, is a fine man from a neighboring kingdom and Snow White's own domain is prosperous and at peace. Things could not be better, in fact, except for one thing: 

The king is dead. 

The queen has been in a moribund state of hopeless depression for over a year with no end in sight. It is only when, in a fit of bitter despair, she seeks solitude in the vastness of her own sprawling castle and climbs a long disused and forgotten tower stair that she comes face to face with herself in the very same magic mirror used by her stepmother of old. 

It promises her respite in its shimmering depths, but can Snow White trust a device that was so precious to a woman who sought to cause her such irreparable harm? Can she confront the demons of her own difficult past to discover a better future for herself and her family? And finally, can she release her soul-crushing grief and suffocating loneliness to once again discover what "happily ever after" really means? 

Only time will tell as she wrestles with her past and is forced to confront The Reflections of Queen Snow White. 

This was an interesting take on Snow White. I figured it would be another re-telling of the classic story we all know and love. But it was different, and I was pleasantly surprised.

The book opens with a grieving Snow White. Charming has died and she's still going through a mourning process. Her daughter, Raven, is getting married and Snow White has to be strong for her. However, it doesn't work well, and she ends up shunning those who love her.

What I really liked about this is how different it is. We get to see Snow White after the happily ever after has been written. And not only that, be we read about her childhood, something that's glossed over in other stories. In this book, her childhood is dark, twisted, painful, and the author keeps nothing away. It's gritty and I loved it.

The abuse in this story can be a little hard for some. It isn't glossed over, you read about every detail of the pain the Evil Queen put her through. It's raw and real.

The famous mirror is in this book, and Snow White finds herself in front of it more than a few times. I thought these scenes were interesting.

The writing for me was the strongest suit. The wording, the imagery were spot on and really kept the magic alive. It kept me hooked until the end.

"If you would have joy again, you must recall how you first found it and that answer lies within you. If you would find strength against you must likewise recall how you discovered it before. It lies beyond the pain."

"Had they but lifted their eyes just a little, their very souls would have been uplifted."

This was a remarkable story, very in depth, and emotional. It deals with a lot of realistic things, and how Snow White deals with life. This isn't one to miss, that's for sure.

Book Subscription Box Reveal- OwlCrate!

I've decided to write a post about my most recent book subscription box. I know it isn't techincally a "book review" but it's my blog, so I can do what I want, right? Let me know what you think!

The BookWorm Box

The BookWorm Box

I've purchased one other book subscription box before, and unfortinutely, I can't find the pictures. It's called The BookWorm Box and it was made by Colleen Hoover (Ugly Love, Hopeless, etc). It's a great box, and it came with a bunch of cute bookish items, and two books!

OwlCrate

OwlCrate

I was so excited to finally have purchased a second book box. I love seeing all the posts from past OwlCrate box openings on social media, and knew this was the next one I had to buy! Each month, OwlCrate has a theme for their box, and this month it was Writers Block. I thought that would be neat, especially since I've had a raging case of writer's block recently.

 The first thing I saw when opening, was cute bookish buttons from Bookworm Boutique and a little letter from the author whose book is in this months box. I'll get to that in a moment. These buttons are adorable! I love them, and the little bookish sayings on them are perfect.

BookWorm Boutique

The next item I pulled out was the quill pen and 642 Tiny Things To Write About from Chronicle Books. I have the bigger version, and I believe they have different prompts, but it's great for carrying around in my purse for those moments of boredom! Now, the quill pen is from Kikkerland. Its a soft, rubber pen with a sharp point. I love it so much! These two items together just want to make me write! 

*Note: I can't find the website for Kikkerland. If you have it, please comment below!

Chronicle Books 

Item number 3 was a pair of socks! They're pretty darn cute, and I can't wait to show them off. These are Banned Books Socks from Out Of Print. It's to show that censorship can't prevent people from reading (because books are amazing!)

Out of Print

And last, but not least, is this beauty. I have heard a bunch of good things about it. I can't wait to dive in! Unfortunately, my TBR list is pretty long, but when I get to this one, I'll make sure to do a review on it! 

Dill has had to wrestle with vipers his whole life—at home, as the only son of a Pentecostal minister who urges him to handle poisonous rattlesnakes, and at school, where he faces down bullies who target him for his father’s extreme faith and very public fall from grace.
 
He and his fellow outcast friends must try to make it through their senior year of high school without letting the small-town culture destroy their creative spirits and sense of self. Graduation will lead to new beginnings for Lydia, whose edgy fashion blog is her ticket out of their rural Tennessee town. And Travis is content where he is thanks to his obsession with an epic book series and the fangirl turning his reality into real-life fantasy.
 
Their diverging paths could mean the end of their friendship. But not before Dill confronts his dark legacy to attempt to find a way into the light of a future worth living.

Jeff Zentner site

Book Review: The Other Side of Gravity-Shelly Crane

General
The Other Side of Gravity
Series: The Oxygen Series, Book 1
Pages: 262
Genre: Teen/sci-fi/dystopian
Rating: four and a half stars

Buy it here:Amazon

Synopsis

My name is Maxton and I’m a trader. 

I live on a soulless planet where gravity, oxygen, and everything else are sold to the highest bidder on the black market. People are sold on the black market, too. You have to work really hard not to become one of those people. Pay your taxes, keep your friends and family close, and more than anything else—don’t get caught by the Militia. But all the rules changed for me the day I found her. 

My name is Sophelia and I’m a stowaway. 

I’ve been a slave for almost as long as I can remember. Waiting for the one day, one second, for my proprietor to turn his head so I could run and never look back. Now I'm on the run. And on a planet where no one is on your side and people would turn you in for a good meal or a piece of a silver, being on the run on Landu is the last place you want to be. Until he found me. 

I won't survive without him. 

I can't breathe without her.

I've read everything by Shelly Crane. More than a few times. It's come to the point, where I don't even both reading the synopsis anymore. Why bother? I know I'm going to like it. I say this about every book of hers, and not once has it been a let down.

The Other Side of Gravity was so much more.

Sophelia has been through a lot for being young. The world they live in, isn't like ours. Sophelia used to live in the stacks as it's called. A place where the poor live. It's gritty and not a very pleasant place to live, but as a child, she did okay there. Until something happens that sets into events that change her life. Suddenly, the slums don't seem so bad. Where she goes is much worse.

Fast forward about ten years, and she's finally breaking free. She's on the run to-hopefully-a better place. But then she runs into Maxton.

The one thing I love about Shelly Crane, is that the male characters she writes about, are amazing! You can't help but swoon and drool every time one is introduced (unless they're the bad guys!) Maxton was no different. I loved him immediately-even if he does begin on the wrong side of things. Once he meets Sopehlia, he knows she's different. And the second it clicked for him that he wanted her, and would do anything to be with her, he wasn't going to stop until he trusted her and believed her worth. He just wants her to feel free and whole. Here is a scene between them, which stuck with me:

"I've got you, Soph," I assure her, "I promise."

And then my hands slid to the backs of her legs as I picked her up, feeling smug knowing that the gasp she let loose wasn't for show but all too real, and then pressed her to the wall with my hips as I held her there tightly against me. In her eyes, I could see she didn't care that Militia were on the way to us or that she could be about to float away into the atmosphere. No, there was only her and me, the wall against her back and the non-existent space between us."

Swoon.

The world is set up in such a way that fascinates me. I haven't read something like it before. A world where you have to pay for oxygen, fight to keep your home, and work harder than ever before to stay alive. It's interesting to read about a world like this, how it's so different from the Earth they learned about in their one day of school. 

It was nice that we got to meet Maxton's family. They're a good bunch, and I hope to see them again in the next book.

There isn't a lot of stable side characters in this one. It isn't until toward the end when we finally meet two guys who will hopefully stick around for a while. They're pretty amusing to read, as twins who speak at the same time and have a good sense of humor. Here is a part I couldn't stop laughing at (Sophelia's POV):

"Let me at her, Rod!" Fletch fought against his brothers arms around his shoulder. "I'll teach her to dis the Snoop."

"I can't even with you guys!" I yelled in a huff.

Maxton finally came to my rescue. "Come on, guys,  we've got to get serious.z'

"Snoop Dog is serious!" he yelled back. "He's a legend!"

"Elvis is a legend," Maxton argued back.

"Who?" both the twins said at the same time.

I smacked my hands over my face. "I give," I said through my fingers.

Maxton took a breath to calm himself from laughing and asked, "You two are freaking hopeless. How do you know who Snoop Dog is and not Elvis?"

Roddy once again answered, "Mom only allowed the classics in our home."

As you can see, the humor is great. It adds a lighter tone, especially when needed. 

The bad guys are bad, eliciting a shiver of fear and disgust whenever I hear him talk. I'm excited to see how everything will play out in book two!

This is told from both Maxton's and Sophelia's POV. It does end with a cliffhanger of sorts, and you'll be dying for the next one!

Book Review: Shatter Me-Tahereh Mafi

General
Shatter Me
Series: Shatter Me book 1
Pages: 338
Genre: Teen/romance/fantasy/sci-fi
Rating: Four stars

Buy it here: Amazon

Synopsis

I have a curse.

I have a gift.

I'm a monster. 

I'm more than human.

My touch is lethal.

My touch is power.

I am their weapon.

I will fight back.

No one knows why Juliette's touch is fatal, but The Reestablishment has plans for her. Plans to use her as a weapon. But Juliette has plans of her own. After a lifetime without freedom, she's finally discovering a strength to fight back for the very first time—and to find a future with the one boy she thought she'd lost forever.

"I've been locked up for 264 days."

When I first started off reading this, I had no idea what to expect. I hadn't read any reviews on it, I wanted to be surprised. Well, surprised I was! 

Let me start off with the writing style. It's so different from any other style I've seen. Which was great! I felt like I wasn't just reading from the main characters POV, but it was like I was reading what she wrote, because she keeps a notebook. There are little scratch outs throughout the book on certain words, which make it interesting. The way the words forge together is almost poetic at times. 

"I know the sky falls down every day. The sun drops into the ocean and splashes browns and reds and yellows and oranges into the world outside my window. A million leaves from a hundred different branches dip in the wind, fluttering with the false promise of flight. The gust catches their withered wings only to force them downward, forgotten, left to be trampled by the soldiers stationed just below."

This was the moment I knew something was different. Soldiers? Why would there be soldiers? Like I mentioned, I hadn't checked up on this one before reading, so I didn't know it was dysoptian either. If you didn't know, you now do! 

The beginning of the story really caught my attention. We begin with Juliette, our main protagonist, in a cool and sterile room. I had no idea why Juliet was in this room, what was going on with her, or what happened to put her there. It was very crazy chaotic (see what I did there)? Her inner thoughts were scattered, which really put into the effect of how she was mentally. It's been a long time since she's been around a normal human being. Her parents went MIA on her, and while we didn't get to read much about them, I've already grown a general dislike for her parents.

"My parents emptied their pockets of me and left me to evaporate on a concrete slab."

Yeah, parents of the year right there.

Enter Adam. Adam is familiar to Juliette, but it isn't until a few pages later that we learn why. It was interesting to find out that they knew each other before the world went to Hell in a handbasket (is that how it goes)? Anyway, Adam. He's mysterious, seems to be confused and doesn't remember who she is. This all happens in the first few chapters, so the mystery starts from the get go. I'm trying to figure out what's going on. 

The world has fallen apart. Something happened (that I'm not completely sure about), and birds no longer fly, animals are going extinct, and people are dying of starvation. And Juliette is in an asylum while this is continuing to go on, with Adam. 

The romance between Juliette and Adam build at a right pace for them. They love each other, and they know it from the moment they meet. Which is sweet. I loved reading scenes with them together!

"I whisper his name. And he's breathing harder than I am and suddenly his lips are on my neck and I'm gasping and dying and clutching at his arms and he's touching me touching me touching me and I'm thunder and lightening and wondering when the hell I'll be waking up."

Now this story wouldn't be real if it didn't have a villain, right? Well, our villain is Warner. He wants Juliette for her "special" abilities. At first I wasn't too sure about him. I mean, we aren't supposed to like the bad guys. I immediately didn't trust him. But, as time went on and Juliette was around him more, my heart started to soften toward him. I still don't know much about him, and I hope he's in book 2 more. It seems like he has a reason for being cold hearted. This is a scene between him and Juliette, which I loved for some reason:

"His smile is laced with dynamite. "Go to sleep"

"Go to hell."

He works his jaw. Walks to the door. "I'm working on it."

The end of the book was not something I expected the story to go to. I was thinking typical, cliche dystopian. Not at all, and I loved it! Just thinking about it makes me giddy to continue reading onto book 2! Each chapter ends with some sort of cliffhanger, whether it be a major one or simple. And the end, though we know its a series, doesn't really end with a huge cliffhanger, which I like. But it makes me want to read more!

The only downside I have about it, and the reason why it's four stars and not five, is I feel like the outside world wasn't explained well enough. I was confused (still am) about what happened to the world and how they all got to this point. I'm hoping that will be all cleared up in the next book. 

If you love romance, sci-fi, fantasy, and dystopian books, this is right up your alley!

Book Review: Illusions of Fate- Kiersten White

General
Illusions of Fate
Pages: 278
Genre: Teen/Fantasy
Rating: 3 1/2 stars

Buy it here: Amazon

Synopsis

Dive into a world of enchantment and romance in this lush fantasy, which Stephanie Perkins, international bestselling author of Anna and the French Kiss, called “an absolute delight—a magical, sparkling, dangerous world with witty repartee and a romance that will light your heart on fire.” Fans of Libba Bray and Cassandra Clare will fall in love with this captivating stand-alone novel from Kiersten White, New York Times bestselling author of the Paranormalcy trilogy.

Jessamin has been an outcast since she moved from her island home of Melei to the dreary country of Albion. Everything changes when she meets the gorgeous, enigmatic Finn, who introduces her to the secret world of Albion's nobility. It’s a world that has everything Jessamin doesn't—power, money, status . . . and magic. But Finn has secrets of his own, and the vicious Lord Downpike will do anything to possess them. Unless Jessamin, armed only with her wits, can stop him.

"I clench my jaw and narrow my eyes. I am no wilting Alben, I am a fierce and strong Melense woman. And I am not the victim of any cruel jokes. Spirits below, I will make certain he knows I am not to be toyed with."

You go girl.

Okay, firstly, this book was a sold 4 stars before the last few chapters came about. The ending was hastily done, and it felt rushed, as if the author didn't want to drag it on into a series or duology. This is a standalone, so it doesn't have a cliffhanger, but to be honest, I almost wish it did. It would have ended better. 

That's not to say that I didn't enjoy the story. Because I did. Leading up to the end, each page was filled with mystery and confusion. I was dying to know who was who and what was what. The premise is solid in that it blends a world of fantasy with historical parallels. It was full of banter, mystery, and magic with a look at colonial life and struggles that woman went through. Though I didn't give the book 4 stars, the reason why it's at 3 and a half is because of this:

It's a full on ride from the beginning. It was a real pageturner as we are introduced into a world full of magic, action, and mystery. I was immediately hooked from the first chapter. Because the chapters have a habit of ending with a cliffhanger, you have to continue on because otherwise you'll be staring at your wall the rest of the night, wanting to know what happened. And because of the dark omens, evil characters, and the sweet forming romance, it's hard to keep away.

Jessamin is a great character! She's strong, fierce, and smart. She's in a world that doesn't welcome her, both as a student and as a person from Melei. Because of her dark skin and hair, she stands out against the paleness of Albion. Racism, sexism and cultural stereotypes are least of her worries when she's pulled into a world of mayhem and murder.

Onto the romance! I loved Jessamin and Fin together. The build was gradual and very realistic. It wasn't something that just happened suddenly because he's hot and she can't help but fall at his feet. Which I loved! Jessamin isn't the type of girl to take one look at Finn and immediately declare her undying love for him. Their banter is flirty and witty, the best kind there is between characters. I love that Jessamin doesn't let Finn use protection as a way to control her:

"You couch your motivations under the banner of protecting me, when it comes down to the fact that you think you are better than I am and more equipped to rule my life."

The other thing I loved about this book is the friendship between Jessamin and Eleanor. In most YA that I've-espeically lately-it's been shrouded with jealousy and tearing girls down in friendships. Jessamin and Eleanor's friendship is nothing like that. They help each other, they remind one another of their self worth and how much they mean to the world. They stick together despite being two different people. (Jessamin speaks first):

"They're wrong, you know. About you. Your uncle and Lord Downpike. You are smart and brave and terribly important."

She laughs. "Oh, I know that, silly. But it's easier not to let them realize it, because then they'd stop ignoring me, and they'd realize how much mischief I really get up to."

In the end, I did love this book despite it's rushed ending. I was it was a little more drawn out and that the emotions were better evoked for the was it ended. It's a good, solid plot with magic, mystery, and romance. If that's something you're into, check it out!

Book Review: Justice for Corrie- Susan Stoker

General
Justice for Corrie
Series: Badge of Honor: Texas Heroes book 3
Pages: 286
Genre: Romance
Rating: Five Stars

Buy it here: Amazon

Synopsis

Blind since birth, Corrie Madison relies on her other sharpened senses in her job as a chiropractor. Never did she imagine she’d have to depend on them to identify a killer. But when a man enters her practice, murdering everyone in his path, Corrie is the only witness—putting her directly in the killer’s crosshairs. 

Officer Quint Axton wasn’t looking for love, or even a relationship, until he meets Corrie. Beautiful and brave, resilient and intelligent, she’s everything Quint wants—if he can keep her alive long enough to explore their mutual attraction. The threats on Corrie’s life are escalating. Surely a blind person is helpless against a ruthless killer? 

Hardly. Corrie is about to prove that disabled does not equal defenseless. 

This is book 3 in a series, but each book is a standalone.*

I love Susan Stoker's stories! I've read each and every one so far. I don't even bother reading the synopsis! All her books are amazing, and I implore you to check them out!

Okay, onto the actual review.

Corrie: I adore all of the main female characters. They are all so strong and kickass! Corrie is no different. She's been through a lot in her life. Born blind, she's had to fight for even the simple things in life. She's had a rough go at it, but doesn't let her blindness hold her back. She's a Chiropractic, and if that doesn't say how determined she is, I don't know what will.  

Put in people who want her dead and a super alpha male who wants to protect her, and you have Justice for Corrie! 

Corrie is so awesome! Throughout the whole ordeal, she stays unwavering. Of course, just like any real human, she has moments of uncertainty and emotional turmoil. Yet, she always bounces back stronger. This woman goes through a lot, and my heart literally aches. I feel for all the characters and I can't wait to see more of them in the coming books. 

Quint: There is one thing that all the men in each series have in common and that's being an alpha. These men are to die for. Quint is a Police Officer at San Antonio PD, and along with a well built body, his urge to protect his woman is just as hot. Each man I read about in her books are always protective of the woman they love, and when they fall, they fall hard. I love Quint. He's got humor and doesn't shy away from Corrie's blindness. 

The side characters are ones who were in the past two books. I always love seeing them again and reading about how they've been doing. These characters just get to you!

The action is well packed, the suspense keeps you wondering and on the edge of your seat. It has everything you need in a book. If you haven't read anything by this author, I recommend any of her series to start with. 

Book Review: Significance- Shelly Crane

General
Significance
Series: Significance series (book 1)
Pages: 396
Genre: Young Adult, fantasy
Rating: 5 Stars

Buy it here: Amazon

Synopsis

Maggie is a seventeen year old girl who's had a bad year. Her mom left, her dad is depressed, she's graduating, barely, and her boyfriend of almost three years dumped her for a college football scholarship. Lately she thinks life is all about hanging on by a thread and is gripping tight with everything she has. 

Then she meets Caleb. 

She saves his life and instantly knows there's something about him that's intriguing but she is supposed to be on her way to a date with his cousin. But things change when they touch, sparks ignite. Literally. They imprint with each other and she sees their future life together flash before her eyes. She learns that not only is she his soul mate, and can feel his heartbeat in her chest, but there is a whole other world of people with gifts and abilities that she never knew existed. She herself is experiencing supernatural changes unlike anything she's ever felt before and she needs the touch of his skin to survive. Now, not only has her dad come out of his depression to be a father again, and a pain as well, but Caleb's enemies know he's imprinted and are after Maggie to stop them both from gaining their abilities and take her from him. Can Caleb save her or will they be forced to live without each other after just finding one another? 

There are few stories out there that can drag me into the characters world this easy. Significance is a four book series.

This book was a sweet romance with a paranormal twist. What I loved about this is that the paranormal is almost like a subplot compared to the romance. It's there and you notice it, but its not a shove in your face paranormal compared to other books out there.

I, being a lover of cliches and romance, love the instant love. Usually a lot of people don't like this fact based on it being non realistic but since this is paranormal and the circumstances are different, it makes sense.

1. Caleb- The definition of book boyfriend. I actually became utterly jealous over Maggie-a fictional character!- because she got Caleb. He's the sweetest, sexiest character I've read. Understanding, amusing and completely head over heels in love with Maggie! He has hopes and dreams, fears and insecurities just like the rest of us and I like how he doesn't portray the norm for a guy. 
2. The Jacobson's- Best family I've read about. I love Grandma! She's hilarious and witty. Caleb's parents are amazing and sweet, always there to help when Caleb needs it. They are all such a loving family, you can't help but smile. 
3. The first kissing scene- You know how the first kiss goes. I don't even need to explain how amazing this scene was, especially if you have read this series or the Collide series by Shelly. 
4. The ending- It was such a good ending for a first book. I nearly died when I finished reading it but I perked up out of coma when I saw the second was already out. 

The paranormal behind this story was interesting. I had not yet read anything about soul mates this way before. I liked how different yet old the idea is. Soul mates, becoming one, can't be torn apart kind of idea. I'm a sucker for romance so the imprinting and basically every scene after are my favorites.

Of course this story has villains and a bumpy road for Maggie and Caleb but they handled it well. I both loved and hated Marcus. He was the epitome of evil. As well as Sikes.

I didn't have many problems with this book. I know it was more innocent compared to other YA books out there but I loved that part! It was sweet and each book that I read became a little bit edgier.

“Because you are my significant, my soul mate. And I'm yours.”

“His eyes opened and he smiled at me like he understood everything, like I was everything.” 

“But... we will always be drawn together. We'll always crave each other. We'll always be in tune with each other, physically and mentally. There is nothing that can change or break that. And even if there was, I wouldn't want to. Not for the world.” 

“I saw something in you that I couldn't live without. I chose you, inside of me, and you chose me. It's not one sided, it only works when both people choose the other. You are perfect for me in every way.” 

Those are just a few of the many heart melting quotes from just this book. Remember, there are three others after this plus Caleb's own novella. 

This is worth the read and I encourage you to pick it up and give it a chance! Free on Amazon!

By the way, when you're finished with this series, be prepared to LOVE Honey Buns ;)

Book Review: Beautiful Demons - Sarra Cannon

General
Beautiful Demons
Series: Peachville High Demons, book 1
Pages: 181
Genre: Young adult, fantasy

Buy it here: Amazon

Synopsis

Harper Madison isn't like other girls. She has extraordinary powers, but her inability to control them has gotten her kicked from so many foster homes she's lost count. Shadowford Home for Girls is her last chance, and she hopes Peachville High will be the fresh start she needs.

At first, life appears to be looking up for Harper. She's making new friends and is strangely drawn to the guy next door. But when evidence ties her to the gruesome murder of a Demons cheerleader, Harper discovers this small town has a big secret.

Beautiful Demons is a fast-paced YA novel with magic, mystery, and a touch of romance. This series will appeal to all ages, including fans of Pretty Little Liars, Hex Hall, and The Vampire Diaries.

I bought the first book about a week after it came out. It sounded different, something I had been looking for. Well, I'm glad I picked it!

From the beginning, this story captured me. I was glued to my Kindle, wanting to know who Harper really is. The story was fresh. Harper is amazing. She doesn't know anything about her past, just that she has this power. After accidentally setting her foster home on fire, she's sent to Shadowford Home, a house for girls. 

Instantly we know something is a little off about this town. They are too nice, though closed off and hinting at secrets. I couldn't figure everything out, so I had to wait for the moment everything clicked with Harper. 

Boy, was that  a secret. This poor girl keeps getting revelations thrown at her left and right. 

I like the side characters, they were interesting to read about and their problems or why they are there. I felt off when reading about a few people, knowing that must have something to do with everything. I was pleasantly surprised at a few truths that came out. 

The romance was amazing, if a little quick. I know some people don't usually like the whole 'love at first glance than fall super fast' type thing, but I happen to like it. It was sweet, dangerous, secretive, and amazing. Our main hero is something ;)

I don't want to give too much away-hopefully I haven't already-but the problem that manifest in this story are great. Kept me on the edge of my seat! So when I finally reached the end, I needed the next story (which wasn't going to be released for awhile yet). I re-read this story countless times. 

This is a series. It has 6 books total, a few shorter ones from the Hero's POV, called A Demons Wrath. Also worth checking out after reading this series. 

Take my advice, read these books! You won't regret it. 

Book Review: Emerald Darkness- Sarra Cannon

General
Emerald Darkness
Pages: 268
Genre: Young adult, fantasy

Buy it here: Amazon

Synopsis

The Shadow Demons Saga continues with this first book in a brand new series.

Harper Brighton is standing on the precipice of a great and terrible war. The sapphire demon gates have fallen, but the four remaining priestesses of the Order of Shadows and their ruler--the mysterious High Priestess--continue to enslave demons from the Shadow World to steal their power.

Harper and her friends in the Demon Liberation Movement target the Emerald gates--a dangerous and far more cunning enemy than any they have ever faced. No one is safe. Destruction comes in the blink of an eye, and the entire human world finds itself frozen, locked in perpetual darkness.

Now, Harper must battle her darkest fears in order to save those she loves most. Will she lead them to victory or will everything they've fought for be lost forever?

*I received this ARC copy in exchange for my review.

I read this authors other series, Peachville High Demons and loved it! I've lost count of how many times I've re-read them all. So when Sarra said she was writing more about that world, I was dying to get my hands on it.

Harper is amazing, brave, strong, and puts others before herself. She's always trying to save her loved ones, even those who aren't close due to her golden heart. She's the nicest character ever and I love that about her. She has gone through so much since the first book and I applaud her for staying strong, especially though times of hardship.

Of course she's got amazing ally's. I can't give too much away about her friends, as they are a big part of the previous books and I don't want to give anything away. I will say that they are true to her and always around to help.

Jackson is HOTT. He's one of my favorite heroes. His secrecy in the other books nearly killed me. I just wanted him and Harper together and to live peacefully. Well, they are together but peace won't be coming soon. That they'll have to work for.

I wish I could say so much more about these characters and the world they live in, but I absolutely don't want to give anything away. You'll just have to read this for youself.

For those who have read the Peachville series, you're going to love this one! We see characters from the other books, new friendships and romances ensue. The POV's change, which at first I was worried about because Harper is the best, but I got over it once I got into those characters heads. I realized I needed their part of the story just as much as I need Harpers.

I don't give books five stars usually, but after 8 books from this author- and she can still keep my attention- I know this lady deserves every 5 star out there.