The Ceruleans #4 Devil and the Deep by Megan Tayte (New Adult, 9/10E, short 'n' sweet review)

Scary scene, gorgeous dress!

September 2015, Amazon, 314 pages, Ebook, Review copy 

Summary from Amazon (I don't benefit from mentioning them)

Scarlett is living her happy-ever-after, back in the real world. Only the ‘happy’ part is proving problematic.

For starters, there’s the isolation. Being a Cerulean among humans is fraught with risk, so her time with people can only be fleeting. Which means being with Luke but not being with Luke.

Then there’s her Cerulean light, her power over life and death. Less awesome talent, as it turns out, and more overwhelming responsibility. And it comes with rules – rules that are increasingly difficult to obey.

But what’s really pushing Scarlett to the precipice is something much bigger than herself, than her life in the cove. A force to be reckoned with:

Blood.

When long-buried truths are exposed, will Scarlett keep her head above water – or will she drown in the blood-dimmed tide that is unleashed?
 

Nayu's thoughts

Beware of the cliffhanger ending in this penultimate read - be sure to have book 5 at the ready! & warning, mega fangirl love from me! I forever adore Scarlett, she has so much to deal with and, like me, tends to push herself a bit too far physically and emotionally. Luke is a constant pillar of support, although he has his own struggles too. This review is short, but the series is so good that you have experience it for yourself. There's a lot of family and friendship issues explored, and figuring out what do when life stops being black and white, which is all the time for Scarlett. The truth is still being witheld from her, but I promise there are a few answers before the book ends. Everything else is in book 5! 

Find out more on Megan's website.  

Suggested reads 

The Ceruleans #1 Death Wish by Megan Tayte (Young Adult, Paranormal Romance, 10E/10E, short 'n' sweet review)

 The Ceruleans #2 Forget Me Not by Megan Tayte (Young Adult, 10E/10E) 

  

The Ceruleans #3: Wild Blue Yonder by Megan Tayte (Young Adult, Paranormal Romance, 10E/10E, short 'n' sweet review)

Blog Tour: The Hurricane by R J Prescott (Romance, New Adult, 10/10E, short 'n' sweet review)

 17th March 2016, Piatkus, 368 pages, Ebook,  Review copy, 

Content: a lot of strong violence + language + romance, occasional strong abuse including rape scene, tissues needed

Summary from Piatkus Entice

A love that’s worth keeping is worth fighting for . . . 

Emily McCarthy is living in fear of a dark and dangerous past. A gifted mathematician, she is little more than a hollow, broken shell, trying desperately to make ends meet long enough to finish her degree.

Through an unlikely friendship with the aging, cantankerous owner of an old boxing gym, Em is thrown into the path of the most dangerous man that she has ever met.

Cormac “the Hurricane” O’Connell is cut, tattooed and dangerous. He is a lethal weapon with no safety and everyone is waiting for the mis-fire. He’s never been knocked out before, but when he meet Em he falls, HARD. Unlike any other girl he’s ever met, she doesn’t want anything from him. 

Just being around her makes him want to be a better person.

They are polar opposites who were never meant to find each other, but some things are just worth the fight.

Nayu's thoughts 

While the language is certainly colourful, prolific and entirely in keeping with the rougher nature of most of the characters, (and it's very easy to skip past the steamy scenes) I absolutely loved The Hurricane and I'm so glad there's a second book on the way! It is from O'Connell's point of view so I'll have to be in the right mood to read it, but because it involves Emily I want to see if they get their happy ever after. 

 It's full of the true meaning of family, which if you're from a broken home as so many of the characters are family isn't something you're born with but something you acquire. The strength of all the friendships made me reaching for the tissues, and was a real pleasure to see develop. 

Emily is AMAZING! She is so sweet and caring, always trying to protect herself which makes her endearing to all who know her. Her desire to stay free from her past makes her make some unwise decisions, but thankfully she slowly learns to extend her friendship circle, and in doing so finding the true meaning of family. I loved how she was doing her best to improve her life, but eventually accepts help from others, especially when they give her things in such a way it would be rude for her to say no. You'll need more tissues for the heartwarming moments which are many.

The level of protection Emily gains from simply knowing Danny increases tenfold when she agrees to work for him and meets his ragtag version of family. While the flashbacks of her traumatic past are emotionally hard to read, they helped reveal little by little why she is so fearful of men. At first her new friends don't know her full history, but they sense that there's a reason for her timidness: they respect that and help her gain confidence in herself, more so O'Connell who has a similar tricky situation which also unravels as the story progress. More tissue moments!

He really is different to Emily. It was nice to see a softer side to him, it helps him fully understand Emily, although it takes her almost forever to accept just how much he loves her. While Emily may take her time trusting people and seem timid, she has an inner strength and passion for life which is drawn out as her new friendships deepen, which prove useful when she has to face her inner and outer demons. 

I may not necessarily approve of boxing (neither does Emily) but it can help channel aggression and keep people off the streets and out of trouble. The way almost everyone in Danny's work is desperate to take care of Emily is sweet, innuendos aside they are a good bunch. And the title can apply to both Emily and O'Connell

I'm hoping this comes out on audiobook as I can't wait to reread it, it's that good. Definitely one for your shelf! 

Find out more on R J's website.

Tail Lights and Teardrops by Connie L Smith (New Adult, Romance, 10/10E, short 'n' sweet review)

October 2015, Inkspell Publishing, 176 pages, Ebook, Review copy 

Summary from Inkspell

Bruised and battered hearts can keep beating. But can they heal?

Preston and Nick endured the breakup of all breakups when Nick accused her of cheating on him. He insisted, and she denied while the rain pounded against her driveway and thunder roared in the distance. Then they both ran—Preston to a life of Rock & Roll, and Nick to a career in the Army.

Four years later, they’re damaged and broken almost beyond repair. He’s carrying baggage from his military days, and she bears the scars of living a lifestyle she’s grown to hate.

When Preston’s label forces her to take time away from music, their paths cross in a parking lot not twenty-four hours after her hometown return, anger and sparks flying in a confusing blend. But regardless of the feelings neither has been able to shake, too many lies and secrets stand in the way of the one thing they need in order to recover.

Each other.

Nayu's thoughts 

It's a pure delight to have a not filled with constant innuendo and uncomfortable for me scenes in a new adult read. This book is about family. When starting the book I'll forgive you if you look at me as if I have 2 heads because only Preston's brother is kind to her. He is incredible. He married her best friend, and they are incredibly kind, open-minded, generous with love, compassionate-you get the picture, I'll save you from more adjectives.

Anyway, Preston's life is screwed up a bit, so she goes home scared and uncertain to find the most amazing support network she could ever want. I was near tears at the overwhelming love her brother and best friend have for her, which is opposite to the rest of her family's welcome. When I say the book is about family I mean it in both the literal and non literal sense. Preston's friends are her family. She struggles wih the issue of Nick, finding it hard to unwind and figure out her life wih him and her unpleasant family constantly featuring in her life. I promise the end is beautiful, that the hatred which occurs does eventually change. A truly beautiful tale I will reread and keep hoping for an audiobook version.  

Find out more on Connie's website.

Unbroken by Michelle Davidson Argyle, (Young Adult, New Adult, 10E/10E, short 'n' sweet review)

  November 2015, MDA Books, 80 pages, Ebook, Review copy 

Summary from Michelle's website

Fourteen years after her kidnapping, Naomi has moved on from her traumatic past. She has a new last name, a career she loves, and nobody to hold her down. When she lands her dream job managing a restaurant in Italy, she resolves not to think about what happened in that country with Jesse eleven years ago. But Naomi’s past won’t let her go that easily. One by one, her former kidnappers are being released from prison. When Naomi runs into Evelyn at a local market, her perfect life is turned upside down and curiosity leads her step by step back to Jesse. She’s looking for closure, but what she finds along the way changes everything, leaving her at one last crossroads with her former kidnappers.

Nayu's thoughts

 Final part of the Breakaway trilogy is epic! Very happy ending & a happy reader!) I'm heavily biased as I'm a Breakaway fangirl, and know Michelle online. (It is called The Breakaway, but originally it was just Breakaway, which is what I'm used to, hence why I call it that a lot). That said I can't stress how wonderful this novel is. Naomi has matured a lot since she was kidnapped and returned, it was fascinating seeing her live her dream of being in Italy, which was a much nicer experience than when she first went there with Jesse in book 2, Pieces. 

I'm so glad she had a mentor of sorts to help her through seeing her kidnappers again – that was a meeting I was super excited to read as I wasn't sure how she'd react. All the way through the novel all previous characters who I both loved and hated acted true to themselves, some had changed for the better, others not so much. The ending is perfection, and while I always like to know what happens next, I'm happy with where I leave Naomi, and am looking forward to rereading this again and again.

Find out more on Michelle's website.

Counting Stars by Keris Stainton (New Adult, 10E/10E, short 'n' sweet review)

September 2015, Hot Key Books, 336 pages, Paperback, Review copy 

Content: some romance, possibly some strong language (can't quite remember...)

 Summary from Hot Key Books

A new life in a new city - what could possibly go wrong . . . ?

When eighteen-year-old Anna leaves school and moves to Liverpool, she feels like her life is finally beginning. She's landed her dream job at a theatre, and she's moving into an exciting (if not slightly run-down) houseshare on a buzzing street lined with shops, bars, and buskers. Best of all, her new flatmates are kind, welcoming and a lot of fun - what more could she ask for?

But her new life is also a little overwhelming. Anna's job quickly falls through, and then she realises that although her new friends are great, they're also a little mixed-up... and it's not long before Anna starts using her blog to talk about her experiences, from the hilarious to the ridiculous to the little-bit-scary. But when Anna spills a bigger secret than she can handle, suddenly the consequences are all too real. She'll have to prove she has the mettle to make it in the big city, or risk losing everything she thinks she wants.

Nayu's thoughts

I think this is a brilliant read because these days there is so much emphasis on going to university after A levels, but it's not for everyone. I liked how Anna takes the alternate career route, deals with moving out of home just like others move into university halls of residence/student housing, and makes a lot of mistakes. 

While she doesn't always make the right choice, I like seeing her mistakes because I can relate to making other mistakes in my life. She shows a lot of determination to stay away from home even when her initial job falls through. I think she is couragous to keep going when she could have given up, she is desparate to forge a life for herself. She lives with a range of characters who teach her some vital life lessons. 

I didn't agree with her writing their exploits on her blog, and while this gives her some confidence and useful tips as to how to get on with them, it does backfire on her eventually. I promise she manages to pick herself up again after the fallout, which is intense. This is definitely on my reread pile, ideal if you don't want to go to uni, and equally if you do but want to understand what path your friends may be taking.

Find out more on Keris's website.

Becoming Famous by Natalie Scott (New Adult, 8/10E)

 August 2015, Perfect Bound Marketing, 152 pages, Ebook, Review copy 

Summary from Natalie's website

Bebe Barkley has never released a sex tape. She’s not America’s Next Top Model. She didn’t get pregnant at 16, and has never auditioned for American Idol. In fact, she’s holed up in a hotel room at the Waldorf in New York City, totally depressed. She doesn’t know it yet, but she’s about to become famous.  A former equestrian rider, Bebe had a bright future until a tragic accident changed everything. Now she’s unable to return to her old life, yet incapable of moving forward.

Nayu's thoughts  

For new adult books, this was a good book with the usual drama alongside intense romance scenes which were easy to skip. However, the first in the series, Rules for Riders, was centered around horses, so I expected Becoming Famous to be. It wasn't, which is what led to a lower grade as my expectation of the book wasn't met. 

However, in itself it's a funny book. Frequently I didn't like the choices with Bebe made, she was reckless and shallow, not likeable, and yet I kept reading because something made me interested in how her life turned out. There are mega hurdles for her in this book, in some respect as large as the devastating events of losing her horse and boyfriend, but somehow she does pull it together eventually. There's a spark in her which intrigues me, and she does manage to find her true self amongst all the fame and fortune.

Find out more on Natalie's website.  

Suggested read

Be sure to check out book #1 in the series Rules for Riders: Best Friends. Deadly Rivals by Natalie Scott (Young Adult, 8/10E, short 'n' sweet review) 

Blog Tour: The Moment of Letting Go by J A Redmerski (New Adult, 8/10E)

Check out the other stops on the tour!

3rd September 2015, Piatkus, 416 pages, Paperback, Review copy 

Content: several strong romance scenes, innuendo, drama, lots of humour 

Summary from Piatkus Entice 

You can follow the rules or you can follow your heart…

Sienna Murphy never does anything without a plan. And so far her plans have been working. Right after college, she got a prestigious job and gained the stability she’d always craved – until work takes her to the sun-drenched shores of Oahu and places her in the path of sexy surfer Luke Everett. For the first time, she lets her heart take control. Drawn to his carefree charm, she makes a spontaneous and very un-Sienna-like decision to drop everything and stay in Hawaii for two more weeks.

Luke lives fast and wild. When he meets Sienna, he’s convinced that some no-strings-attached fun is just what she needs. As their nights quickly turn from playful to passionate, Luke can’t deny the deep connection he feels. But there’s a reason Luke doesn’t do long-term. He can’t promise Sienna forever, when the enormity of his past has shown him just how fragile the future can be .

Nayu's thoughts

When my favourite Piatkus publicist asked if I'd like to review The Moment of Letting Go and be on the blog tour it didn't take too long for me to say yes. I was intrigued as to what would make Sienna extend her stay. I'd expected that it would be something dramatic, maybe even quitting her insanely high pressured job, but it wasn't, which is part of the reason for the 8/10E grade. The other part is that sometimes I wanted to bash both Sienna and Luke's heads together for not communicating properly. 

That said, most of the book is fine. It was easy to skip past the mature scenes, which is always a plus for me. I very nearly quit reading Luke's point of view chapters, but I figured they would be there for a reason, even if initially I found them boring. There's lots of drama for Sienna, not all her fault. I love it when her friend's with her, because she looks out for Sienna and gives Luke the 3rd degree. 

I was hugely shocked by Luke's past. What he does is insane, and what happened in his past is a bit horrific, and made me wonder why he'd continue doing what he does. Idiot sprang to my mind! Sienna understandably struggles with the truth, which leads to changes in both her life and Luke's. It was good to see her grow as a person, to become more carefree, more compassionate, and generally live life more, rather than go along with what her job dictated. The title is apt, there is so much to gain when you let go of emotional baggage and fears. 

Find out more on Jessica's website. 

Available at most bookstores including NRC affiliate Foyles.

Suggested read

Another fun romance filled read is A Vintage Wedding by Katie Fforde (Shop fiction, Romance, Fiction, 9/10E) 

Princess Diaries #11: Royal Wedding by Meg Cabot (New Adult, 9/10E, short 'n' sweet review)

Cute cover!

July 2015, MacMillan, 448 pages, Paperback, Review copy

 Summary from Pan MacMillan

From Meg Cabot, the #1 New York Times bestselling author of the Princess Diaries series, comes the very first new adult instalment, featuring the now grown-up Princess Mia! 

Royal Wedding follows Princess Mia and her Prince Charming as they plan their fairy tale wedding - but a few poisoned apples could turn this happily-ever-after into a royal nightmare.

For Princess Mia, the past five years since college graduation have been a whirlwind of activity, what with living in New York City, running her new teen community centre, being madly in love, and attending royal engagements. And speaking of engagements, Mia's gorgeous longtime boyfriend Michael managed to clear both their schedules just long enough for an exotic (and very private) Caribbean island interlude where he popped the question! Of course Mia didn't need to consult her diary to know that her answer was a royal oui.

But now Mia has a scandal of majestic proportions to contend with: Her grandmother's leaked "fake" wedding plans to the press that could cause even normally calm Michael to become a runaway groom. Worse, a scheming politico is trying to force Mia's father from the throne, all because of a royal secret that could leave Genovia without a monarch. Can Mia prove to everyone - especially herself - that she's not only ready to wed, but ready to rule as well?

Nayu's thoughts
Although this review for the 11^th book in this ace series, I have to mention books 1-10 which are for Young Adults since I spent a solid weekend reading most of them in 1 hit in preparation for this July release. I grew up with Princess Diaries, dreaming of being Mia who has a cat (which is the best animal on earth after birds). I thought I'd read all the books, but rereading them proved I hadn't even read half. I have now! For the record, I'm not fond of the new style covers, but #11's cover is fine by me! I've watched the films countless times, and having read the entire series I rewatched them and now fully understand more of the story.

While Royal Wedding can be read on it's own, I do recommend reading some of the previous books, or at least a summary of what's happened so you understand why what Mia does is considerable growth from the teen she used to be. Aye, the teen melodrama did get a tad frustrating at times, especially when all Mia can think about is boys (not just Michael either!), hence the slight drop in grade, but overall it was amusing. I was able to relate to her misadventures and tragedies some of the time. I liked watching her grow. I felt the period where she becomes severely depressed was an important part of the tale – one of the funny moments being when her bodyguard under her father's orders takes her in her 5+ day old pjs outside in broad daylight to see a psychologist who is also a cowboy. Much amusement, but Mia learns to deal with the issues which are real and huge to her.

It might explain which she overreacts on occasion in book 11, where she is an adult so has a lot more say about what she does. Unfortunately her overreacting/rash nature/stubbornness does cos big mishaps to occur when a more reserved approach would have resulted in a less explosive experience, but then Mia wouldn't be Mia, which all those who love her point out and understand. Make that nearly all, as she and Lilly actually fall out which if I'd read those books when I was younger I couldn't have understood, but now I know friends can drift apart - and drift back together after each has grown up a bit. 

I accidentally read a page near the end before reading the book, and was horrified at the implications what I thought I read had on both Mia and Mia's mother. Upon reading the book from the start my mind did a 180 degree turn and fully understood the events of that page when it happened. I thought the twists in Mia's life was incredible up until book 10, but probably in accordance with adults going through life events which a humungous, Mia the adult's family drama is what makes this such an epic series to read. 

Yes, it was a bit more mature than her teen years, but in some ways the frequency of the relationship issues was much less and a bit toned down from the hyped up teen years. Mia learns there is much more to life than boys, and although she kicks off international incidences she means well and finds a way to recover and prove that she is a suitable princess of Genovia. She is as spunky a princess as some of her ancestors (the non boring ones), and more than capable of reforming Genovia's political system. Yup, you won't be disappointed by the latest installment in Mia's life! I so hope there will be more ^o^ I would then reread the entire series in a weekend again! 

Find out more on Meg's website.

Nova and Quinton #3: No Regrets by Jessica Sorensen (New Adult, 8/10E, short 'n' sweet review)

 April 2014, Sphere, 369 pages, Paperback, Review copy

Content: drug use, alcohol, moderate romance, 

Summary from Little, Brown

Today is the first day of Quinton Carter's new life. The toxic guilt of his past left him in pieces, but one girl unexpectedly put him back together. Thanks to Nova Reed, Quinton can finally see the world with clear eyes. She's the reason his heart is still kicking behind the jagged scar on his chest. And he would love to have her in his arms every minute of the day . . . but he's not ready yet.

Playing drums in a band and living with her best friends are just some of the highlights of Nova's life. But the best new development? Talking to Quinton on the phone each night. She wishes she could touch him, kiss him, though she knows he needs time to heal. Yet shocking news is on the way -- a reminder of life's dark side -- and Nova will need Quinton like he once needed her. Is he strong enough to take the final leap out of his broken past . . . and into Nova's heart?

 

Nayu's thoughts

For some reason this wasn't as thrilling a book as the others in the series. It was missing that extra something which had me captivated by Nova and Quinton's stories as they cross paths, separate, cross paths, then separate some more. Quinton is recovering from his drug addiction, Nova is trying to live her life but she still cares for him. I confess after a few Quinton chapters I skim read them, reading Nova's thoroughly since I enjoy her view on life, and prefer female characters to male ones. 

Nova's video journaling which helps her feel closer to her dead boyfriend and to handle her mixed emotions on life in general were insightful, and I was annoyed every time I came across a Quinton chapter. The end was ok, which along with the not as thrilling read is why I gave it 8/10E. I do recommend it if you've read the other books in the series, but if not I wouldn't start with this one. 

Find out more on Jessica's website.  

Thoughtful by S C Stephens (New Adult, 8/10E, semi short 'n' sweet review)

A strange cover..

24th February 2015, Sphere, 560 pages, Paperback, Review copy 

Content: strong language, adult romance, adult situations

Summary from Little, Brown

The only place Kellan has ever felt at home is on stage. Gripping his guitar in a darkened bar, he can forget his painful past. These days his life revolves around his music and his band mates, and that's the way he likes it. And then one woman changes everything . . .

Kiera is the kind of girl Kellan has no business wanting - she's smart, sweet, and dating his best friend. Certain he could never be worthy of her love, he hides his growing attraction . . . until Kiera's own tormented heart hints that his feelings might not be one-sided. Now, no matter the consequences, Kellan is sure of one thing: he won't let Kiera go without a fight.

Nayu's thoughts

I was intrigued by Thoughtful for broaching music which is an industry I don't know much about. I haven't yet read the prequel trilogy, although I have bought it because I prefer a female protagonist and want to learn about more about Kiera's tale. Although rather mature in language, and romantic content it was fascinating how many misunderstandings occurred and the lack of Kellan and Keira communicating. It was a bit too heavy to read in one hit, so I broke it up with other books and activities, but up until and even after I finished it provided a lot of food for thought. It is a long book, and occasionally dragged in places but mostly I didn't notice time passing between reads. 

Kellan's life is complex, and to some extent a mess. He feels he has to act a certain way to keep up how he thinks people look at him, but Kiera shows him he can act differently, and self-perception can be wrong. The problem is when obstacles disproved the positive changes Kellan made, he then threw them away and went back to previous behaviour, making it harder for Kiera to reach out to him. At the times I felt Kellan was being a dimwit he'd do or say something which would reverse my opinion. He has a small handful of true friends who do help him, but half the time Kellan refuses to either see or accept that help. Stubborn is an understatement in describing Kellan! 

I could see the way Kiera changed him for the better, but I did also want her to stay away as he was unstable and definitely not a good influence on her, although he gave her hope and helped her to change herself. There were some funny moments, but they weren't a constant amongst the angst and self-blame. I will read the other trilogy, but knowing how heavy it will be I need to wait for the turmoil of Thoughtful to lighten before tackling it. Thoughtful is probably not a book I'll reread, but I definitely recommend it to explore the darker side and complexity of human emotions.

Find out more on S C's website.

What If by Rebecca Donovan (New Adult, 9/10E, short 'n' sweet review)

January 2015, Penguin, 373 pages, Paperback, Review copy 

Content: adult romance, partying and drinking, 

Summary from Penguin

What if you had a second chance to meet someone for the first time?Cal Logan is shocked to see Nicole Bentley sitting across from him at a coffee shop thousands of miles from their hometown. After all, no one has seen or heard from her since they graduated over a year ago. Except this girl isn't Nicole.She looks exactly like Cal's shy childhood crush, but her name is Nyelle Preston and she has no idea who he is. This girl is impulsive and daring, her passion for life infectious. The complete opposite of Nicole. Cal finds himself utterly fascinated and falling hard. But Nyelle is also extremely secretive. And the closer he comes to finding out what she's hiding, the less he wants to know.When the secrets from the past and present collide, one thing becomes clear: Nothing is what it seems. 

Nayu's thoughts  

Whenever I read a book I somehow form an expectation of it. What If threw my expectation out the window as it wasn't all what I expected, but this isn't meant in a negative way. I thought there may have been a more fantasy/sci-fi(y) reason for the reappearance of Nicole, so kept waiting with bated breath to hear she was a clone/an alien in disguise/on witness protection. The real reason, when it's finally revealed is understandable, if a bit sad. 

I enjoyed watching Cal try to figure out the new Nicole - Nyelle, because he remembered so clearly how things used to be. Having different viewpoints throughout the book created more mysteries until the truth was revealed, and is definitely a book that needs to be re-read knowing the truth, to see where the hints were and the subtler plot parts. 

Find out more on Rebecca's website.

Suggested read

Another intriguing New Adult read is If I Forget You by Michelle Davidson Argyle (New Adult, 10E/10E)

Blog Tour: Molly Miranda Thief for Hire by Jillian Hamilton (New Adult, 9/10E)

6th February 2015, Tomfoolery Press, 162 pages, Ebook, Review copy

Content: occasional mild violence, theft, some romance, lots of laughs

Book summary

Professional, experienced contract burglar.

It’s not exactly something you can put on a business card.

Molly Miranda has made a successful living from “acquiring” valuables and delivering them to clients who pay buckets of cash for her unique services.

So what if she has to lie about her lavish lifestyle in Manhattan and her frequent trips out of the country? Molly has everything under control.

Things go astray when she knocks boots with her charming roommate right before taking off to Scotland with an untrustworthy wildcard on a job assignment that doesn’t go quite as planned.

It doesn’t help that this new partner-in-crime is super annoying. And attractive…

Join Molly on her hilarious adventures as she dodges bullets, trespasses, wears disguises, and steals her way into trouble.

Nayu's thoughts

This is the book for you if you like adventure, prefer heroines to heroes, and like to laugh. Molly's attitude to life is more than a little entertaining. I was smiling on all the pages, even and probably especially when she ran into trouble, which she fell into a lot. There's just something which makes her likable, even though in real life my view on thief's is different to the fictional ones. I kept thinking how her skills could be put to better use in a more legal fashion, but then Molly wouldn't be Molly. I felt like I knew Molly from the start, that she was a character I was returning to rather than a whole new one which added to the friendly feel of the story. I'm pretty sure it's Molly who finds driving on the other side of the road in a different country an experience laced with danger, but it's possible I'm remembering something from a different book also with a thief...

It's clear that at first she prefers being on her own than being partnered with someone she doesn't like, but aside from the romance which I have tendency to ignore Molly did learn there were some positives to having a partner in crime. There were certainly many benefits for Molly being friends with Ruby, who like Molly is quite a character, probably my second favourite with the way she knows Molly so well and how they tease each other as only good friends can. Molly knows Ruby will be there for her no matter what. 

Molly's adventure didn't quite get full marks - there's nothing specific, it didn't quite have the absolutely brilliant aspect the top mark warrants, but is definitely a book I'll reread and look forward to seeing book 2 in due course. Molly is a thief you'll love to know about! 

Find out more on Jillian's website.

An author to add to your shelves!

Suggested read

For adventures of a magical kind check out Deadly Curiosities by Gail Z Martin (Urban Fantasy, 9/10E)

Even Angels Fall by F L Darbyshire (New Adult, 10E/10E, semi short 'n' sweet review)

August 2014, Grosvenor House Publishing, 498 pages, Paperback, Review copy

Content: strong drug use, suicide, tissues needed

Book summary 

After suffering an unthinkable loss, Abbey Miller and her family move to Leeds to rebuild their lives and start again, but the pain and grief that Abbey carries with her is impossible to escape. As she finds herself becoming increasingly isolated from her family, she develops a firm friendship with Lucy, Nathan and Liam, who introduce her to a brand new and exciting world, far removed from all of her problems. 

But will her new friends bring her the light hearted relief she has longed for? Or will she find herself getting drawn deep into their dangerous and intoxicating world?

Nayu's thoughts

I was drawn to review this book because someone I went to school with when I was little had a drug overdose this year. It is a tragedy, and there is no way to make this theme 'nice'. Because of Abbys personal tragedy involving suicide, she is really vulnerable. It's no surprise she accepts friendship from people who save her from the school bullies, even if they lead her off the rails more than a little bit. 

I understood why Abby acted the way she did, and made her decisions, even if they definitely weren't ones I'd pick. The real reason why her family seem to ostracize her is explained gradually, and when I realised the truth my heart ached for all Abby went through emotionally. Hers was the hardest loss of all, I thought that the way Abby knew about drugs but didn't take them for a while was important. The moment she did, well life went downhill even though it seemed to improve for her social standing. 

I feel I'm in a bit of a unique position in that I have to take ketamine as part of my chronic pain treatment. I take it legally on prescription. It is a class C drug, which some what to increase to class B. Drugs are bad, as Abby finds out. You never know the effects they cause. I was pretty ill the first few times I took ketamine. Now, well, I totally understand why people get addicted to drugs. It seems ironic that I'm writing this review while trying to get over the hyperactivity which I get after ketamine. I have euphoria, and I'm completely lucid, but I have a need to keep going, to stay active. So I write reviews Abby certainly didn't do that, she parties hard and takes different drugs. 

Yes, sometimes drugs can make you feel good, I'm not denying that. But the health risks, many of which are unknown especially if you take drugs illegally without medical supervision are not worth it. Seriously, I can get hyper on sugar. Go eat chocolate! Feeling hyper is all well and good, but it's not fun when you have to stay up 20-22 hours just so you will sleep well the next day. Abby ends up in situations where she is no longer at home, so she can sleep in and do whatever she likes. The new found freedom comes at a price. 

Those in the drug underworld are cruel and only want their money. Abby gets tangled up in drug dealing vendettas, which impact not only her life but her family's. I once thought people who took drugs were homeless or came from terrible backgrounds. Both my personal experience and Abby's story proved me wrong. It seemed logical for Abby to take drugs, given the mental instability she experienced because she didn't get the support that she truly needed from her family, so she was happy to accept the release drugs allegedly gave her. 

 I didn't notice how long Abby's story is because I couldn't stop reading it. I read it solidly one afternoon, and was in shock when the last page appeared, no least because of the massive plot twist I didn't see coming. Wow! I can't say how I expected the book to end, other than it wasn't like that. I will definitely reread this compelling read which explores all aspects of the impact of drugs in the future! 

Suggested read 

For another read involving drugs check out Breaking Nova by Jessica Sorensen (New Adult, 9/10E)

Breaking Nova by Jessica Sorensen (New Adult, 9/10E, short 'n' sweet review)

9th October 2014, Sphere, 368 pages, Paperback, Review copy

Content: some strong romance scenes, suicide, frequent use of drugs, alcohol use, tissues needed

Summary from Little, Brown

Nova Reed used to have dreams of becoming a famous drummer, of marrying her true love. But all of that was taken away in an instant. Now she's getting by as best she can, though sometimes that means doing things the old Nova would never do. Things that are slowly eating away at her spirit. Every day blends into the next, until she meets Quinton Carter.

Quinton once got a second chance at life, but he doesn't want it. The tattoos on his chest are a constant reminder of what he's done, what he's lost. He's sworn to never allow happiness into his life, but then beautiful, sweet Nova makes him smile. He knows he's too damaged to get close to her, yet she's the only one who can make him feel alive again. Quinton will have to decide: does he deserve to start over? Or should he pay for his past forever?

Nayu's thoughts

It's a good thing that I usually see the cover after I read the blurb. If I went by the cover alone, I'd have passed this book by. But I didn't. I was intrigued by what happened to Nova that changed her life so much. That intrigue soon changed to horror when I learned the truth. It's awful what happens to her, that's something no-one should witness. I've nearly been in the exact same situation, thankfully mine had a happier ending, although I'd lost a friend the same way a few years before the second incident. All the right emotions are there, trust me on that one. 

It's not surprising that she goes off the rails and gets locked into a lifestyle which is less than desirable and not all that good on her body. I wanted her to take the right path, which she does eventually, but she has to make a lot of wrong choices until she gets there. Personally Quinton is a wrong choice, but, to give him his due, he does help Nova to realise a lot of important things. I'm interested in the sequel to see what happens because the ending was a happy surprise for me. Those who are reading more for the romance side of the story will be annoyed with it! 

The grade comes from the content, I wasn't overly fond on the drug focus, even if I could understand the feeling of being high because I use ketamine legally for pain relief. I understood the side effects of feeling like nothing matters, which was weird to relate to. I realise it's part of the story which is crucial to Nova changing her mind about her life, but I'd rather have a protagonist who doesn't get high. 

Find out more on Jessica's website. 

Suggested Read

Another excellent New Adult read about a girl taking the wrong path before the right one is Grounding Quinn by Steph Campbell (New Adult, 9/10E)

A Knight's Tale #1 Getting By by Claudia Burgoa (New Adult, 8/10E, semi short 'n' sweet review)

February 2014, Createspace, 306 pages, Ebook, Review copy

Summary from Claudia's website

When Emma Anderson arrived at San Francisco International Airport, she regretted accepting the distinction of being the maid of honor to Gaby’s—her childhood friend—wedding. It had been years since the last time she set foot in Menlo Park, where her parents had been killed. The rug where she had been shoving her feelings since that day looked bumpier than a camel’s hump. Who could blame her; if she hadn’t been selfish they’d still be around. Ever since that fateful day, Emma has been perfecting the knack of Getting By.

Cade’s wedding in Menlo Park—a city close to San Francisco—might be the perfect place for Jake Knight to shake the memories of his ex, Emma Anderson for good. Single, available women galore for an entire week was the perfect medication, one he intended to take three times a day for an entire week to return to his player days. It was a plan the former spy thought flawless until he came face to face with the maid of honor. Jake’s perfect retreat turns into a flight, fight or hide week of celebrations.

Nayu's thoughts

I'm still relatively new to the New Adult genre, but Claudia has created an interesting series. From the summary alone I was pretty hooked. Emma has some severe emotional baggage, which combined with what ends up being more dangerous than she expected pre-wedding events kept me turning the pages as fast as I could read them. The humour was always well timed, taking the edge off a few seriously nasty moments where I found breathing a bit tricky. I'm a huge fan of books with family values at their heart, which earns Emma's story a place on my shelf.

Now, you may be wondering about the grade. I think it might have been more a case of what mood I was in when I read the book, rather than there actually being anything 'bad'. I did get a bit frustrated at how poor the communication between some of the characters was, but again I think that was more me than the book itself.

Find out more (including info on A Knight's Tale #2!!!) on Claudia's website.

Suggested read

One of my favourite New Adult reads is If I Forget You by Michelle Davidson Argylle (New Adult, 10E/10E)

If I Forget You by Michelle Davidson Argyle (New Adult, 10E/10E)

May 2014, MDA Books, 238 pages, Ebook, Review copy

Themes: going to university, living away from home, living with family, finding your place in life, being forgetful, making mistakes, blasts from the past, doing what's right for you,

 

Content: some drinking, some mature romance plus rape (not entirely off the page),

Summary from MDA books

Avery Hollister is a little more than absentminded. She has trouble remembering faces, names, and dates without her piles of lists and Post-it notes. When she heads off to college it takes her a week to realize the guy she’s crushing on is, in fact, three different guys.

With a faulty memory and three men who have no idea she’s mixed them up, Avery doesn’t know how to fix the mess she’s made. But she knows she has to try, even if it means losing a love not even she could forget.

Nayuleska's thoughts

*happy sigh* I love this book as much as I love The Breakaway duo by Michelle - which is heaps! Aside from the rape and a few scenes, I thoroughly enjoyed Avery's life. There wasn't as much mature content as all the other New Adult books that I've read, which made it a pleasant read. I speak truthfully that although I've only just finished it, I had to peek back at the book to know Avery's name. I related so well to Avery because I have memory issues, only mine are a side effect of taking ketamine on prescription for pain relief. I empathised every time Avery forgot someone's name, when she forgot what she was meant to be doing, and how almost impossible it can be to explain to people it isn't a case of forgetting something that you might remember hazily later, it's full on forgetting like it never happened.

I loved the relationship Avery developed with her aunt. She didn't always treat Chloe as best as she should, but Chloe was there in a huge way when life for Avery hit rock bottom, which had me crying lots. Avery learns that going to uni/college can really change your relationship with those you love, something that many readers can relate to. I didn't always approve of what she did, but I wanted Avery to overcome her personal challenges, which took tragedies and unpleasantness to move on from them.

The romance side of the book was believable, the rape was dealt with in a way that it wasn't quite all at once or in the moment, although it was examined in moderate detail.

  

Find out more on Michelle's website.

Suggested read

For another fun read from Michelle check out Catch (Young Adult, 10E/10E) link to follow soon