Book Review: Untethered by Marcia Lynn McClure - 5 Stars

Title: Untethered
Author: Marcia Lynn McClure
Series: Stand Alone
Publisher: Distractions Ink
Released: June 2012
Source: Purchased
Genre: Clean Historical Romance
Website: http://distractionsink.com/

Book Summary:

A man tethered by pain and guilt borne of past tragedy,
A young woman with the soul of a guardian angel,
And an unspeakable evil about to be unleashed.

As Cricket lay in the soft comfort of her bed, continuing to let her mind nest on thoughts of how truly wonderfully attractive Texas Ranger Thibodaux was, she giggled, thinking that looking at him was more refreshing than swimming naked on a summer Sunday afternoon. He was a tall drink of water—far taller than most of the other men in town—and his shoulders were as broad as the state of Texas itself. Sky-blue eyes, bronze skin, square jaw, and dark hair—and that smile! In truth, Cricket had only seen Heathro Thibodaux smile three or four times, but each incidence was something she’d never forget. His smile was bright and white, and the gold tooth he owned on the upper-right incisor of his smile only embellished the richness of it.

That one tooth. Cricket’s smile faded as she thought of it. Oh, no doubt the flash only added to the splendor of his smile. Yet it also served as a reminder to anyone who had ever read or heard of what had happened in Texas one year before. No doubt it was a powerful remembrance to Heathro Thibodaux himself—a visual indication of true barbarity, pain, and loss.

In that moment, Cricket wondered—when Heathro looked in the mirror each morning and saw that tooth, did he think of eight dead girls buried in the bottom of a bleak and barren canyon? Did he think of the eight dead girls that he, for no fault of his own, had been unable to save?

Marcia never disappoints me.  If you're a long time follower of this blog you already know I absolutely love her books.  I read them knowing what I am going to get and she always delivers.

I loved Cricket's do-gooder innocence matched to the tortured cynicism of Heathro.  Marcia has once again created an incredible cast of lovable characters.

I love getting to know Marcia better through the the parts of herself she puts into everyone of her novels.  The author's notes at the end are always the icing on the cake.

If you've not read a Marcia Lynn McClure book before start with Visions of Ransom Lake or Shackles of Honor or A Crimson Frost.  For those who like me have read and enjoyed all of her books this one is of course a must read.

Rating: 5 Stars - I loved it.

Content: Clean - passionate kissing and a couple of the mildest of expletives.

Source: Purchased

Book Review: Edenbrooke by Julianne Donaldson

Title: Edenbrooke
Author: Julianne Donaldson
Series: None
Publisher: Shadow Mountain
Released: March 27, 2012
Website: http://www.juliannedonaldson.blogspot.com/

Book Summary

Marianne Daventry will do anything to escape the boredom of Bath and the amorous attentions of an unwanted suitor. So when an invitation arrives from her twin sister, Cecily, to join her at a sprawling country estate, she jumps at the chance. Thinking she’ll be able to relax and enjoy her beloved English countryside while her sister snags the handsome heir of Edenbrooke, Marianne finds that even the best laid plans can go awry.

From a terrifying run-in with a highwayman to a seemingly harmless flirtation, Marianne finds herself embroiled in an unexpected adventure filled with enough romance and intrigue to keep her mind racing. Will she be able to rein in her traitorous heart, or will a mysterious stranger sweep her off her feet? Fate had something other than a relaxing summer in mind when it sent Marianne to Edenbrooke.

Being the clean romance, Jane Austen lover that I am I LOVED Edenbrooke.

What a fabulous way to spend a morning.  Edenbrooke was a book I couldn't put down.  I picked it up to read just a few pages before getting out of bed but didn't quit reading until I finished the book. While there may never be another Mr. Darcy it is possible that his twin is found roaming the grounds of Edenbrooke.

Squeaky clean, full of romance, humor and great characters this is a book I highly recommend.  Perfect for lovers of Jane Austen era romances.

Rating: 5 Stars - I loved it!

Content: Clean

Source: From Publisher

Add Edenbrooke to your goodreads shelf: http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/12820360-edenbrooke

Book Review: Where She Went by Gayle Forman

Title: Where She Went
Author: Gayle Forman
Series: If I Stay #2
Publisher: Dutton Juvenile
Released: April 5, 2011
Website: http://www.gayleforman.com/


Book Summary:

It's been three years since the devastating accident . . . three years since Mia walked out of Adam's life forever.
Now living on opposite coasts, Mia is Juilliard's rising star and Adam is LA tabloid fodder, thanks to his new rock star status and celebrity girlfriend. When Adam gets stuck in New York by himself, chance brings the couple together again, for one last night. As they explore the city that has become Mia's home, Adam and Mia revisit the past and open their hearts to the future - and each other.
Told from Adam's point of view in the spare, lyrical prose that defined If I Stay, Where She Went explores the devastation of grief, the promise of new hope, and the flame of rekindled romance.

If I Stay felt like a stand alone book when I read it. It didn't need a sequel, so I was surprised when there was one. Where She Went takes place three years after If I Stay ended. It's similar to If I Stay in the way it is told, we learn what has happened to Adam and Mia through flashbacks of the last three year. However this one is told from Adam's perspective and a lot has changed for Adam in the past three years.

Despite the fact that there was a lot of language and some other content in this book I wish wasn't there, Where She Went was a book I couldn't put down. I was engrossed in the story from the first page to the last. Beautifully written and heartbreaking, I could feel both Adam's & Mia's pain as the last three years of their lives unfolded in this story. So well done!  I loved this story.

Rating: 5 Stars - I loved it.

Content: Lots of it, explicit langauge - (I quit tallying F words but at least a dozen of them), sex talk and implied sex. Adam is living the life of a popular rock star and has everything that comes with that lifestyle.

Source: Dowloaded from Overdrive

Add this one to your To-Read List! Edenbrooke by Julianne Donaldson

A full review of Edenbrooke is coming soon but being the clean romance, Jane Austen lover that I am I just couldn't wait to say you've gotta read this one! I LOVED Edenbrooke.

Last month I received a review copy of Edenbrooke. I'd received a note from the publicist saying she thought I would love Edenbrooke but I have had no free time the past couple weeks to pick up a book of my choosing. I woke up before my kids this morning so thought I'd spend a few minutes reading and chose to start Edenbrooke. I couldn't put it down and didn't quit reading until I finished the book. While there may never be another Mr. Darcy it is possible that his twin is found roaming the grounds of Edenbrooke. What a fabulous way to spend a morning.

Edenbrooke

Marianne Daventry will do anything to escape the boredom of Bath and the amorous attentions of an unwanted suitor. So when an invitation arrives from her twin sister, Cecily, to join her at a sprawling country estate, she jumps at the chance. Thinking she’ll be able to relax and enjoy her beloved English countryside while her sister snags the handsome heir of Edenbrooke, Marianne finds that even the best laid plans can go awry.

From a terrifying run-in with a highwayman to a seemingly harmless flirtation, Marianne finds herself embroiled in an unexpected adventure filled with enough romance and intrigue to keep her mind racing. Will she be able to rein in her traitorous heart, or will a mysterious stranger sweep her off her feet? Fate had something other than a relaxing summer in mind when it sent Marianne to Edenbrooke.

Add Edenbrooke to your goodreads shelf: http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/12820360-edenbrooke

Edenbrooke will be released on March 27, 2012

Book Review: My Soul to Take by Rachel Vincent

Title: My Soul to Take
Author: Rachel Vincent
Series: Soul Screamers Book #1 of 7
Publisher: Harlequin Teen
Released: July 29, 2009
Website: http://rachelvincent.com/


Book Summary

She doesn't see dead people. She senses when someone near her is about to die. And when that happens, a force beyond her control compels her to scream bloody murder. Literally.

Kaylee just wants to enjoy having caught the attention of the hottest guy in school. But a normal date is hard to come by when Nash seems to know more about her need to scream than she does. And when classmates start dropping dead for no apparent reason, only Kaylee knows who'll be next.

I probably should have reviewed this book as soon as I finished it earlier this week. Instead I found and read its prequel, then picked up the 2nd book in the series, and then the 3rd. I started the 4th book at midnight last night and have already finished it and just bought book number 5. As soon as I'm done with that I'm planning to buy the 2 novellas I've not yet read. I'm sleep deprived but just can't seem to get enough of this series.

It's been way too long since as series of books kept me up because I couldn't put them down.  I'm sure it helps that the first five books in the series are already out.  I've loved being able to finish one and jump right into the next one.  In fact part of me wishes I'd waited to start this series until all the books were out. I have a feeling the wait for the last two books in the series is going to be excruciating.

So did I like the first book My Soul to Take? Most definitely.  It is original and full of twists and turns and some amazing characters.  I loved both the story line and the characters.  My knowledge of folklore is obviously lacking because I didn't even know what a bean sidhe was prior to starting this book. Rachel Vincent's version of banshees & grim reapers is both creative and entertaining.

Content: language, making out, innuendo, sexual tension. (Having now finished the first 4 books of the series I should note that the intensity of the content has increased with each book).

Rating: 4.5 Stars - Highly Recommend to Older Teens & Adults

Source: Audible.com Download

Book Review: Die for Me by Amy Plum

Title: Die for Me
Author: Amy Plum
Series: Revenants Book #1
Publisher: HarperTeen
Released: May 10, 2011
Website: http://www.amyplumbooks.com/


Book Summary:

My life had always been blissfully, wonderfully normal. But it only took one moment to change everything.

Suddenly, my sister, Georgia, and I were orphans. We put our lives into storage and moved to Paris to live with my grandparents. And I knew my shattered heart, my shattered life, would never feel normal again. Then I met Vincent.

Mysterious, sexy, and unnervingly charming, Vincent Delacroix appeared out of nowhere and swept me off my feet. Just like that, I was in danger of losing my heart all over again. But I was ready to let it happen.

Of course, nothing is ever that easy. Because Vincent is no normal human. He has a terrifying destiny, one that puts his life at risk every day. He also has enemies . . . immortal, murderous enemies who are determined to destroy him and all of his kind.

While I'm fighting to piece together the remnants of my life, can I risk putting my heart—as well as my life and my family's—in jeopardy for a chance at love?

I don't think I've ever read a Zombie book before. Prior to Die for Me if you asked me I'd probably say I don't like Zombies. This book definitely changed that opinion. Similar to the way Twilight changed my opinion on vampires Die for Me changed the way I see Zombies. Called Revenants, a term I had never heard prior to reading this book, these zombies are a far cry from the gruesome creatures I picture when you say the word zombie.

I loved everything about this book. From the characters and story-line to the action and romance, this book seemed as if it were written just for me. Although this book follows the typical young adult paranormal romance story-line it was completely unique in many ways and left me wanting for nothing except to get my hands on the sequel as soon as possible.

Die for Me is a beautifully written book that I won't soon forget. The sequel Until I Die is definitely on the top of my want ("need now") list.

Content: I can't remember anything that was objectionable in this book (maybe I was too engrossed in the story to notice).

Rating: 5 Stars - I loved it.

Source: Audible.com Download



The sequel Until I Diewill be released on May 3, 2012.

Book Review: Unearthly by Cynthia Hand

Title: Unearthly
Author: Cynthia Hand
Series: Book #1
Publisher: HarperTeen
Release Date: January 4, 2011
Author's Website: http://www.cynthiahand.blogspot.com/


Book Summary:

In the beginning, there's a boy standing in the trees . . . .
Clara Gardner has recently learned that she's part angel. Having angel blood run through her veins not only makes her smarter, stronger, and faster than humans (a word, she realizes, that no longer applies to her), but it means she has a purpose, something she was put on this earth to do. Figuring out what that is, though, isn't easy.
Her visions of a raging forest fire and an alluring stranger lead her to a new school in a new town. When she meets Christian, who turns out to be the boy of her dreams (literally), everything seems to fall into place—and out of place at the same time. Because there's another guy, Tucker, who appeals to Clara's less angelic side.
As Clara tries to find her way in a world she no longer understands, she encounters unseen dangers and choices she never thought she'd have to make—between honesty and deceit, love and duty, good and evil. When the fire from her vision finally ignites, will Clara be ready to face her destiny?
Unearthly is a moving tale of love and fate, and the struggle between following the rules and following your heart.

Another fabulous 2011 release that I finally got around to reading.  I guess one advantage to being behind is that I can now read the books fellow bloggers have voted the Best of 2011. Odds are that if several of my blogging friends have all loved a book I will too.  Unearthly is no exception to this rule.

So we're back to love triangles again but as I said in my last review nearly all the books I love have love triangles.  I actually like both boys in this one but am surprised because I'm not rooting for the character I thought I would be rooting for.  I loved that the relationships in this book didn't spontaneously happen overnight.  It took months for things to develop which was a nice change.

Hooray for another book that I would let my teenagers read.  I can not remember anything objectionable in this book.

In a way I'm glad I waited to read this book because we are left with so many unanswered questions at the end.  Thankfully the sequel comes out in less than two weeks and thanks to Netgalley & HarperTeen I have a copy of Hallowed waiting to be read.

I think Unearthly standouts in teen paranormal romance genre.  It is beautifully written and I loved the new take on angels.  Another book I highly recommend you read especially if like me you missed the boat when this one got released.

Rating: 5 Stars - I loved it!

Content: Clean

Source: Audio Download from Audible.com



The Ebook of Unearthlyis currently just .99 cents on Amazon.com. I highly recommend you splurge and spend the $1 to read this book if you have not read it yet.

The Sequel Hallowedwill be released on January 17, 2012.

Book Review: Divergent by Veronica Roth

Title: Divergent
Author: Veronica Roth
Series: Book #1
Publisher: Katherine Tegen Books/ HarperCollins
Release Date: May 3, 2011
Author's Website: http://veronicarothbooks.blogspot.com/


Book Summary:

In Beatrice Prior's dystopian Chicago, society is divided into five factions, each dedicated to the cultivation of a particular virtue—Candor (the honest), Abnegation (the selfless), Dauntless (the brave), Amity (the peaceful), and Erudite (the intelligent). On an appointed day of every year, all sixteen-year-olds must select the faction to which they will devote the rest of their lives. For Beatrice, the decision is between staying with her family and being who she really is—she can't have both. So she makes a choice that surprises everyone, including herself.
During the highly competitive initiation that follows, Beatrice renames herself Tris and struggles to determine who her friends really are—and where, exactly, a romance with a sometimes fascinating, sometimes infuriating boy fits into the life she's chosen. But Tris also has a secret, one she's kept hidden from everyone because she's been warned it can mean death. And as she discovers a growing conflict that threatens to unravel her seemingly perfect society, she also learns that her secret might help her save those she loves… or it might destroy her.

Debut author Veronica Roth bursts onto the literary scene with the first book in the Divergent series—dystopian thrillers filled with electrifying decisions, heartbreaking betrayals, stunning consequences, and unexpected romance.

Phenomenal!  Seriously this was a fabulous book to start off the year.  I loved it, seriously loved it!  When I polled my blog readers for their favorite read of 2011 Divergent was the unquestionable winner and I hadn't read it.  So I remedied that by making it my first read of 2012.

I rarely read book summaries or reviews anymore and was especially glad I didn't read this book's summary or any reviews on it before reading it.  I had no idea what to expect other than knowing that there has been a lot of hype about this book.  Divergent currently has a 4.41 rating on goodreads which is the highest rating I found on any of the 2011 young adult debut novels.  I had high expectations when starting this book and I'm happy to report that for me this book lived up to the hype!

Amazingly there was no love triangle.  Don't get me wrong, many (actually most) of my favorite books have love triangles but it's so refreshing to not have one. No picking side in this one just Team Four all around, how can you not love the guy.

Overall this was a fairly clean book. Kudos to Veronica for writing something I will let my teenagers read. There was no language that I remember, no sex and it was fairly mild on the innuendo although it was violent. If I had to choose I would say that I much prefer violence over language or sex in books, it doesn't bother me nearly as much. The Dauntless are heartless fighters so there are several scenes that are quite violent.

What else to say without spoiling the book?  It's fabulously written with characters I love.  The four month wait for the sequel Insurgent is going to be a long one.

Divergent is the kind of book I enjoy reading.  Young adult, dystopian, fairly clean - Yep that's right up my alley.  Seems like I'm the last person to read this book so I'm probably preaching to the choir but if you haven't yet read this I highly recommend it.  I loved it!

Divergent by Veronica Roth

Rating: 5 Stars - I loved it!

Source: Download from Audible.com

Content: No sex, no language that I remember, overall I'd say it was clean but violent.  I'd let my teenagers read it.

Insurgent is definitely on my most wanted list! I cannot wait!


Insurgent by Veronica Roth

Book Review: Pandemonium by Lauren Oliver

Title: Pandemonium
Author: Lauren Oliver
Series: Delirium Book #2
Publisher: HarperCollins
Release Date: February 28, 2012
Author's Website: http://www.laurenoliverbooks.com/

Book Summary:

I’m pushing aside the memory of my nightmare,
pushing aside thoughts of Alex,
pushing aside thoughts of Hana and my old school,
push,
push,
push,
like Raven taught me to do.
The old life is dead.
But the old Lena is dead too.
I buried her.
I left her beyond a fence,
behind a wall of smoke and flame.

Lauren Oliver delivers an electrifying follow-up to her acclaimed New York Times bestseller, Delirium. This riveting, brilliant novel crackles with the fire of fierce defiance, forbidden romance, and the sparks of a revolution about to ignite.

WOW! I really love this series. Although there is not much I can write that won't be a spoiler.

 Pandemonium is not told chronologically but rather jumps back and forth between THEN - starting when Delirium ended and NOW which is about a year later. We are introduced to a whole new set of characters who I couldn't help but love even though I started the book missing Alex.

I predicted the main things that were going to happen in this book but Lauren Oliver took me on quite a ride getting from point A to B. The Wild was nothing like I imagined it would be. Pandemonium focuses much more on the Resistance and has more violence in it then Delirium did.  As I predicted it was another cliffhanger ending.  It will be a long wait for Requiem to be released in 2013!

This is a INCREDIBLE book that I loved!  This is one series I wouldn't mind having extended to more than 3 books.  I'm not sure I will have had enough with just one more book.

If you have not yet read Delirium I highly recommend you do before Pandemonium is released at the end of February.

Rating: 5 Stars - I loved it!

Source: From Publisher for Review

Content: Language including a couple uses of the F word, clothes off but no sex, quite a bit of violence.

Other Books by Lauren Oliver

Delirium


Hana: A Delirium Short Story


Before I Fall


Liesl & Po


Dear Bully: Seventy Authors Tell Their Stories

Book Review: The Pirate Ruse by Marcia Lynn McClure

Abducted! Forcibly taken from her home in New Orleans , Cristabel Albay found herself a prisoner aboard an enemy ship—and soon thereafter, transferred into the vile hands of blood-thirsty pirates! War waged between the newly liberated United States and King George. Still, Cristabel would soon discover that British sailors were the very least of her worries—for the pirate captain, Bully Booth, owned no loyalty—no sympathy for those he captured.
Yet hope was not entirely lost—for where there was found one crew of pirates—there was ever found another. Though Cristabel Albay would never have dreamed that she may find fortune in being captured by one pirate captain only to be taken by another—she did! Bully Booth took no man alive—let no woman live long. But the pirate Navarrone was known for his clemency. Thus, Cristabel’s hope in knowing her life’s continuance was restored.
Nonetheless, as Cristabel’s heart began to yearn for the affections of her handsome, beguiling captor—she wondered if Captain Navarrone had only saved her life to execute her poor heart!

Oh how I love Marcia's Books! Seriously love them. Today is my birthday which meant my husband got up to get our 5 kids off to school so I could sleep in. But I'm used to waking up so I was wide awake. Since I didn't have to get up and couldn't sleep I decided I could spend my time how I wanted so instead of sleeping I chose to read a Marcia Lynn McClure book.  Good choice!

As is the case with all of Marcia's books, The Pirate Ruse did not disappoint. I loved this one! So much fun to read. It made me smile and laugh! How can you go wrong when you cross Marcia's writing with a pirate tale - You can't! And with a title like The Pirate Ruse you know you are in for an adventure... romance, battles, mystery, a devilish pirate, feisty heroine and lots of kissing.  A great way to spend the morning.

Content: Clean

Rating: 5 Stars - I love it!

Source: From Author

The Pirate Ruse was released on November 1, 2010 by Distractions Ink

Book Review: The Trove of the Passion Room by Marcia Lynn McClure

The Trove of the Passion Room is not simply a story. Nor is it only a fable, a legend or mere nonsensical superstition. It exists. There is a trove hidden in The Passion Room…a trove that has never before in its fullness been found—for it is hidden by the spell of passion that lingers within the room itself. The passion inspired of the room cannot be denied. It cannot be controlled or resisted. And as the influence of The Passion Room cannot be evaded, neither can the trove be revealed without absolute and consummate surrender to...” She paused as her eyes widened. “What?” she breathed. “No way!”

About 8 pm last night a wonderful surprise was awaiting me. An email from Marcia that contained a Kindle version of The Trove of the Passion Room. Despite being caught up in the middle of two other books I just had to start this one! And is always the case once I start a Marcia Lynn McClure book I have a hard time putting it down! Sleep was sacrificed and cleaning and errands had to wait so I could read this.

The Trove of the Passion Room is classic Marcia Lynn McClure. I was not disappointed. Everything I love about Marcia and her books was within the pages of this fabulous contemporary story. There is predictability to Marcia's books but honestly I would be disappointed if there wasn't. I open her books knowing just what to expect and have never once been let down.

As the title suggests this book had plenty of passion. Marcia is known for her clean books that have nothing but passionate kissing. She can write the "chaste" side of desire and passion without any sex better than anyone. I'm certain The Trove has at least double if not triple the amount of passionate kissing as any of her other books.

The author notes at the back are something I treasure. I love getting a glimpse into Marcia's writing & life.

From Marcia:

"I LOVED writing The Trove of the Passion Room! I think it's one of my very, very favorite contemporary stories! The story is so close to my heart! And the hero is...how can I say this...INCREDIBLE! I know you want details...but I'm not sure what would best wet your whistle! Let's just say this for now...it's entitled The Trove of THE PASSION ROOM...will that do?"

Content: I consider Marcia's books to be clean reads (although this one does have some of the mildest of language and of course lots of kissing)

Rating: 5 Stars - I LOVED IT!

Source: Kindle Ebook

Book Review: Iron Queen by Julie Kagawa

My name is Meghan Chase.
I thought it was over. That my time with the fey, the impossible choices I had to make, the sacrifices of those I loved, was behind me. But a storm is approaching, an army of Iron fey that will drag me back, kicking and screaming. Drag me away from the banished prince who's sworn to stand by my side. Drag me into the core of conflict so powerful, I'm not sure anyone can survive it.


This time, there will be no turning back.

The Iron Fey is nearing the top of my all time favorite series.  Often sequels in a series don't get better but this is not the case with the Iron Fey series.  I loved this book.  I rarely reread books but this is a series I want to reread.  Julie Kagawa wrote an engrossing tale.  I had thought this was a "trilogy" and that the Iron Queen would be the end of the series.  Not so and in this case I'm thrilled because I really do want more of this series.  Up next is the Iron Knight - Ash's story - just wish there wasn't a wait because I want it now!

Bringing me lots of smiles and a few tears this was a well written sequel full of twists and turns.  I don't want to give any spoilers so I'll just say this is an fabulous book I thoroughly enjoyed and I'm sure fans of the first 2 books won't be disappointed.

The Iron Queen will be released on February 1, 2011 by Harlequin Teen.

Rating: 5 Stars - It's not often I give a 5 star rating to a young adult book that has language, sex &/or violence but I'm making an exception for The Iron Queen - I loved it.

Content: Some mild language but it didn't seem to be a prevalent as in the first 2 books. Perhaps the difference is simply that I read this book and listened to the audio of the first 2 books in the series and the language stands out to me more when the narrator shouts it in my ear.  There is another content issue that might concern parents (not graphic) but it would spoil the story if I shared more than that. Ages 16+

Source: ARC Tour

Book Review: My Unfair Godmother by Janette Rallison

Tansy Miller has always felt that her divorced father has never had enough time for her. But mistakenly getting caught on the wrong side of the law wasn't exactly how she wanted to get his attention. Enter Chrysanthemum "Chrissy" Everstar, Tansy's fairy in shining, er, high heels. Chrissy is only a fair godmother, of course, so Tansy's three wishes don't exactly go according to plan. And if bringing Robin Hood to the twenty-first century isn't bad enough for Tansy, being transported back to the Middle Ages to deal with Rumpelstiltskin certainly is. She'll need the help of her blended family, her wits, and especially the cute police chief 's son to stop the gold-spinning story from spinning wildly out of control. Janette Rallison pulls out all the stops in this fresh, fun-filled follow-up to the popular My Fair Godmother.

I really enjoyed the first book in this series My Fair Godmother. It's unusual for a sequel to be better than the original book but Janette Rallison managed this amazing feat with My Unfair Godmother.

This book is cute, clean and fun. I laughed out loud more times than I can remember. The references Janette makes to popular culture are hysterical. References from everything from Twilight to popular music are sprinkled throughout. I'm not sure if this book was supposed to make me cry but there is one scene near the end were I had tears in my eyes.

Well done Janette! My Unfair Godmother is a hilarious twisted tale that combined elements from Robin Hood and Rumplestiltskin into one fabulous adventure. If you enjoyed My Fair Godmother I'm sure you'll love this one. It can be read as a stand alone but I highly recommend reading My Fair Godmother first.

My Unfair Godmother is scheduled for release on April 12. 2011.

Content: Clean

Rating: 5 Stars

Source: Around the World ARC tour

Keys to the Demon Prison by Brandon Mull

Since ancient times, the great demon prison Zzyzx has protected the world from the most dangerous servants of darkness, including Gorgrog, the Demon King. After centuries of plotting, the Sphinx is on the verge of recovering the five artifacts necessary to open the legendary prison. Facing the potential of a world-ending calamity, all friends of light must unite in a final effort to thwart the Sphinx s designs and find a safe home for the five artifacts. To this end, Kendra, Seth, and the Knights of the Dawn will venture far beyond the walls of Fablehaven to strange and exotic magical preserves across the globe, where the end of every quest becomes the beginning of another. In this explosive series finale, allegiances will be confirmed and secrets revealed as the forces of light and darkness collide in a desperate struggle to control the keys to the demon prison.

Keys to the Demon Prison is a fabulous end to the Fablehaven series. Lots of twists and turns. Starting the book I had a couple expectations. Expectations that were very similar to the expectations I had starting Harry Potter (Snape must be good, Ron & Hermione must end up together, Harry & Ginny must end up together). Thankfully all my expectations were met so I'm very happy with the book and its ending. My only complaint is that the series is over. I would love to have the chance to return to the world of Fablehaven.

And just a random thought: Love that the demon prison was named Zzyzx. Always makes me think of that oddly named exit off I-15 in Southern California. When we got to Zzyzx Road we knew we were almost home.

If you have not yet read the Fablehaven series you are missing out! Go read these books. I'm looking forward to more fantasy books by author Brandon Mull.

Content: A clean read. There is fantasy violence that may be a little much for younger kids. It didn't phase my 8 year old but many people do get hurt and killed. I wouldn't describe it as graphic violence but young readers beware.

Rating: 5 Stars to this fabulous end the the Fablehaven series.

Welcome To Stalk Lake City by Sheralyn Pratt

Deciding to go "off grid" for a while, Rhea Jensen can think of no better place to disappear than Utah. She settles into a quiet Mormon lifestyle--unless you count the skydiving, racecar driving, mountain climbing, and overly obsessive workouts. But when her best friend, Kay, tips her off to a stalking case, Rhea takes the job out of sheer boredom. Only then does Rhea realize two things--first, being good is hard; and second, she knows way too much to get out of the PI game.

Everyone's favorite private investigator is back in this second installment of the Rhea Jensen Series by Sheralyn Pratt. Packed full of new mysteries, new relationships, and all of Rhea's old habits, Welcome to Stalk Lake City will hold you hostage from the very first page.

Welcome to Stalk Lake City, Book 2 in the Rhea Jensen series, was originally published in 2004. Author Sheralyn Pratt has recently revised the Rhea Jensen series. Welcome to Stalk Lake City is being rereleased this week. I loved the first book City of Angels and this sequel did not disappoint.

Welcome to Stalk Lake City had me laughing out loud. I adore snarky Rhea Jensen and couldn't help but laugh at her take on Utah Mormons. Packed with mystery, humor, and romance this book kept me turning pages until the end. I can't wait for Rhea's next adventure in the book City Limits to be released in October.

Sheralyn Pratt writes great LDS literature. I highly recommend her books.

As a side note at some point I think I'll read the books they were originally published just to see what has changed in the revised versions of this series.

Content: This is a clean read.

Rating: 5 Stars - This book is good, clean fun!

Paranormalcy by Kiersten White

Evie’s always thought of herself as a normal teenager, even though she works for the International Paranormal Containment Agency, her ex-boyfriend is a faerie, she’s falling for a shape-shifter, and she’s the only person who can see through paranormals’ glamours.

But Evie’s about to realize that she may very well be at the center of a dark faerie prophecy promising destruction to all paranormal creatures.

So much for normal.

WOW! Kiersten White's debut novel Paranormalcy is amazing. Seriously I loved this book. It has it all - great characters, great romance, great story. Couldn't put it down. I highly recommend this book to everyone! Can't wait for the sequel.

Content: Oh Bleep! Thankfully this one is a clean read ;-)

Rating: 5 Stars - This book will be released on August 31st. Don't wait - Go buy it and read it!

The Visions of Ransom Lake by Marcia Lynn McClure

Youthful beauty, naïve innocence, a romantic imagination thirsting for adventure-an apt description of Vaden Valmont, who would soon find the adventure and mystery she had always longed to experience-in the form of a man. A somber recluse, Ransom Lake descended from his solitary concealment in the mountains, wholly disinterested in people and their trivial affairs. And somehow, young Vaden managed to be ever in his way-either by accident or because of her own unique ability to stumble into a quandary. Yet the enigmatic Ransom Lake would involuntarily become Vaden's unwitting tutor. Through him, she would experience joy and passion the like even Vaden had never imagined. Yes, Vaden Valmont stepped innocently, yet irrevocably, into love with the secretive, seemingly callous man-Ransom Lake. But there were other life's lessons Ransom Lake would inadvertently convey to her as well. The darker side of life-despair, guilt, heartache. Would Ransom Lake be the means of Vaden's dreams come true? Or the cause of her complete desolation?

The Visions of Ransom Lake is one of Marcia Lynn McClure's best! I couldn't put this one down and had to finish despite being exhausted and sitting on a freezing cold tile floor in a cold hallway reading by the light from a bathroom. (There was no where else to read because every other room had someone trying to sleep.) Full of everything I've come to expect in one of McClure's novels: fabulous characters, humor, romance, lots of kissing but nothing more... Great book!

There is just something about the ways Marcia writes that just draws me in and makes me smile.

And the title...what a great title for this book.

So good I read it again!

Content: Like all of Marcia's book this is clean read.

Rating: 5 Stars. I loved it!

Kiss In The Dark by Marcia Lynn McClure

“Boston,” he said. The commanding sound of his voice caused Boston to cease in her prattling and look to him.
“What?” she asked, somewhat grateful he’d interrupted her panic attack.
He frowned and shook his head.
“Shut up,” he said. “You’re all worked up about nothing.” He reached out, slipping one hand beneath her hair to the back of her neck.
Boston was so startled by his touch, she couldn’t speak—she could only stare up into his mesmerizing green eyes. His hand was strong and warm, powerful and reassuring.
“If it freaks you out so much…just kiss in the dark,” he said.
Boston watched as Vance put the heel of his free hand to the light switch. In an instant the room went black.

Kiss in the Dark is one of Marcia Lynn McClure contemporary novels. Currently available only as a 140 page ebook that can be download from her site.

Another great book book by Marcia. She is currently my favorite author. Her books are my guilty secret with no guilt!

I love that her books make me laugh out loud, giggle, sigh and never fail to leave me with a smile on my face when I'm done.

I love when Marcia has author notes at the end.

In the end, I just hope you enjoyed the story! I hope it entertained you, made you laugh—that your day was just a little less stress-filled because of it. Secretly, I’m hoping I have the desire and energy to lengthen Kiss in the Dark into a novel one day—because, personally, I’m dying to know what favor Vance asked of Boston when he cashed in his I.O.U.

I do hope she expands this book as was mentioned in her author's note because I want to know about the I.O.U.!

Ah the memories this book brought back, how could I have forgotten the fun of playing kissing rugby?

I love the old fashioned values in her books and that her characters are good people.

Content: Marcia's book are all clean romances. She writes some very passionate kissing scenes but that is all. Ages 16+.

Rating: As I said above Marcia's books are my guilty pleasure minus the guilt. 5 Stars.

Tide of Mermaid Tears by Marcia Lynn McClure

Yesterday I finished the book The Tide of Mermaid Tears by Marcia Lynn McClure. It was a sad day for me because this was the final Marcia Lynn McClure book that I had yet to read. Instead of focusing on the individual book I'm going to dedicate this post to Marcia Lynn McClure and my love of all her books.

Can I just tell you how much I love Marcia Lynn McClure. She is my favorite author. The first of her books that I read was An Old Fashioned Romance. I read that book on April 22nd - less than 8 weeks ago. I was at Kim's soccer game and I was not a very good soccer mom that day. In fact it was a little windy and cool so I sat in my car pretending to watch her game while actually reading instead. I so enjoyed that book that I requested another of her books from the library. Two weeks later Shackles of Honor came in and I read that. I was hooked at that point. One week later I picked up several books from the library and just couldn't get enough of her books. Our local library had 10 of Marcia's titles. Being unwilling to wait for my request for the library to purchase the rest of her titles I bought them myself. I don't buy books! Other than Stephenie Meyer's Twilight Series & The Host and The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins I can't remember the last book I bought for me. I just don't buy books. But within a week I had purchased the remaining 12 books that my library didn't have. Thank goodness I had a free trial of Amazon Prime so they arrived free in 2 days. My first shipment had 3 books in it, then another 3, then I just broke down and bought the remaining 6. I downloaded the free ebook Rogue Knight. Still not having my fill I bought her 9 ebooks. I managed to read all 32 of her books in less than 8 weeks. I'm now anxiously awaiting the release of Windswept Flame and her new pirate book that are coming out soon.

I found an old interview by her that I enjoyed because it sums up exactly why I like her books:


Interviewer: Your books are known for being old-fashioned romantic instead
of being explicit. What kind of response have you seen to taking this approach?

Marcia: I have seen exactly the kind of response that I hoped for...that I was certain existed; Elation from readers who were looking for just the sort of books I write--incredibly romantic and yet safe! Something to share with your teenage daughter or your mother or your best friends! People (especially women) need moments of escape...distraction that leaves them feeling happy, positive, uplifted. That's what I always look for in reading material...so, that's what I write! Those who work in the industry seem surprised at my success. It's hard for me to imagine that so few people think a book in this genre can succeed without explicit intimacy content. But it can!

Her books are all ultimately happily ever after books. When I finish her books I always feel uplifted, rejuvenated and determined to be a better person. They make me laugh out loud, sigh, giggle and smile from ear to ear. Full of romance without anything illicit. Just a wonderful reminder of how it was to be young and in love.

FYI her name is pronounced Marcia which rhymes with Garcia. Here is a little more about her:


Originally from Albuquerque, New Mexico, Marcia Lynn McClure grew up influenced by the reminiscent stories of rugged, rural Colorado farm life fascinatingly recounted to her by her parents, grandparents, uncles and aunts... tales of runaway buckboards, mule-drawn plows and dust pneumonia; verbalized images of stream-flooded meadows, frozen over in winter, where a child could peer through the crystal clear ice in wonder at the small fish, snakes and mice sealed in the meadow grasses beneath; stories of hardship and tragedy, love and loss. But always the stories, and the people telling them, bore evidence of the wonder and worthiness of simpler, yet sometimes brutal, times.
These influential people and the family legends they detailed, coupled with her own life experiences and utterly romantic nature, led Marcia to begin writing novels as Christmas gifts for her closest friends…friends who long for a breath of the past and miss the romance of bygone eras; friends searching for moments of distraction from the stressful, demanding times we live in. And so, knowing that it is the breath of the past and the "take me in you arms and kiss me" kind of moments that so many women long to relive, Marcia spins her tales of love, life and laughter . . . adventures woven around those compelling, romantic instances that most appeal to a woman's loving heart. Marcia feels that if her readers close one of her books with a contented sigh and a delighted smile, feeling rejuvenated, cheerful and edified, then she has achieved what she set out to do shower refreshment and happiness on anyone having experienced the story.

Here is a list of her books that are currently available:

Beneath the Honeysuckle Vine

Saphyre Snow

A Crimson Frost

The Time of Aspen Falls

The Highwayman of Tanglewood

The Whispered Kiss

The Touch of Sage

The Visions of Ransom Lake

The Heavenly Surrender

Shackles of Honor

The Fragrance of Her Name

Daydreams

Divine Deception

An Old-Fashioned Romance

To Echo the Past

Desert Fire

Love Me

Born for Thorton's Sake

Sudden Storms

Prairie Prince

Weathered Too Young
Dusty Britches

Ebooks:

The Tide of Mermaid Tears

Kiss in the Dark

The Light of the Lover's Moon

Sweet Cherry Ray

Kissing Cousins

The Rogue Knight

The Unobtainable One

The General's Ambition

Indebted Deliverance

A Better Reason to Fall in Love

Coming Soon:

Windswept Flame

Not Yet Titled - Pirate Book

Content: These are clean adult romance books. The content and age appropriateness of each book varies a little but I would say they would all be appropriate for ages 16+. There is some very passionate kissing in all of the books but nothing more. I just don't think anyone younger than about 16 could really appreciate these books. I'll wait until my daughter is 16 to share these books with her. In every single book you find characters that have morals and values. They are honest, hard working people who despite their desires & passions always remain virtuous even if it means getting married ASAP. There is no objectionable language in any of her books. As far as violence there is nothing graphic. Men get shot, beaten & killed in some of the books but it's never describe in great detail.

Rating: Every single one of these books received 5 stars in my book. I do have a few that are favorites but those would receive more than 5 stars if such a rating were possible.

Have you read Marcia Lynn McClure? Which of her books is your favorite?

As far as The Tide of Mermaid Tears this wasn't really a review of that book but since reading it I can't get the song Cherish by Madonna out of my head!

I Am A Reader, Not A Writer

I've thought a lot about starting a book review blog but here's the problem... I am not a writer. I love, love, love to read and I can edit and critique other people's work. But when it comes to coming up with something original on my own I fall flat.

I have a personal blog where I post about my day to day life and I use goodreads to keep track of books I have read and books want to read. But I thought I'd create a separate blog for things I'm reading and as a place to share a few of my thoughts, likes, dislikes, etc.

I consider myself an avid reader. I've read 126 books so far this year the year isn't even half over yet. I try to read clean, uplifting books. Here are the kinds of books I like & dislike:

I couldn't finish The Time Traveler's Wife - Loved the concept and story line but it just had too much sex and language in it for me.

I read the first of The Outlander series but quit part way into book 2. I enjoyed Outlander but it was a little too much for me.

I loved Poison Study, Magic Study & Fire Study. I am a little more liberal when it comes to an "adult" book having sexual content than I am when sex is part of a young adult book. As long as it isn't too graphic or steamy I will read a book that has immoral content as long as that isn't the focus of the book. It sickens me when young adult books are filled with language and immoral content.

For about 18 months I was obsessed with The Twilight Series by Stephenie Meyer. Still one of my favorite series of books. I also loved The Host.

I love a good clean romance! Currently my absolute favorite author is Marcia Lynn McClure. Why? Her books are clean but oh so romantic. I rarely buy books but I've bought dozens of her books because I adore them (and her). I also enjoy romance novels like the ones written by Nicholas Sparks.

I love fairytale and fairytale retellings done by authors like Shannon Hale, Robin McKinley, Gail Carson Levine & Jessica Day George. I love classics like Jane Eyre and all of Jane Austen's books. I love young adult books that have crossover appeal to adults, books like Harry Potter, the Hunger Games, Artemis Fowl & The Mortal Instruments.

I am LDS and enjoy many LDS books. When the Deseret Book catalog comes I add dozens of new books to my list. Whether it's doctrinal or a good sappy LDS romance novel I usually enjoy it.

I enjoy reading great picture books to my children. I love great audio books. It's amazing how a book comes to life when read by the likes of Jim Dale.

So that's a starting place. If your taste in books is like mine then you might find some great recommendations or warnings as far as content from the books I'm reading. I follow about a dozen books blogs where I find recommendations for books to read. I wish more of those sites had content rating for books. I also look at all the 4 & 5 star rated books my friends read on goodreads.

If you've read any great clean reads, uplifting reads or just great books let me know!

So many books, so little time!