oh my God... I fell in love as soon as I saw the cover.
353786
Let me tell you something... I love the Hulk. I love every inch of his big green body. When I saw there were not 10 but 14 (count them 14 baby!) songs about one true love I almost had a heartattack in KB Toys. It was like time stopped. I heard nothing in the over crowded store that Saturday night. As the infamous Phil Collins once said: "I heard it in the air that night". I did indeed hear it in the that night, what I heard was "Buy me! Buy me! 2 dollars for the best album on the planet about the best thing on the planet... The Hulk!". I snatched the one and only copy on the shelf there. I managed to get 2 dollars out of my wallet but would of paid atleast 100 for this album. I went up to the counter with my palms sweating. The lady behind the desk rung it up and I ran outta the store with the most sought after treasure since King Tuts tomb. The ectasy when I put the album in was un-real. "Hulk he's the one, he's the one he's the one! Hulks he's the one when you wanna have fun!". Oh I was having fun alright... this was the highlight of my life. I think I can't go on anymore because everything else in life will just be a dissapointment. If anything ever happen to my Hulk CD I don't know what I would do. Anyway... "You('ve) got to cool off" is my fav on the album. Bob Marley has got nothing on this, it just feels like you are in Jamaica. Dark Side of the Moon, Thick as a Brick, Close to the Edge, Foxtrot.... they got nothing on this album. This probably the most progressive album of all time. 1000/5. BUY IT NOW!
240304
This was a very intriguing read and I am excited to be writing a review.  First off, I just have to comment on how much I love the cover.  It is very well done and simplistic.  I am a sucker for a simple, but polished book cover.  Often times, I choose books based on their covers and the I definitely love this one for not being overly done or improperly representing the story like some covers do.  Alright, now that we've got that covered and I'm sure you think I'm a freak because I adore basic and sophisticated books covers like this let's get into the review portion of this post.  :)

This book is very fast paced, which being a mystery like novel was ideal for me because I was anxious to know what would happen next.  The world in which this book is set in is very engaging and complex in the sense that there is so much to learn and questions that come up at every turn.  There is magic, romance, mystery, murder, and more!  I loved the writing style, and although I did like the fast pace of the book, I felt there were some gaps or areas where you jumped time and things didn't flow as smooth as they could have (which is one of the reasons for not giving this a full five star review).

Sierra is a sweet heroine that gains her strength throughout the novel because her world is literally turned upside down at the very beginning of the book.  I loved the relationship between her and Gavin, but didn't really care for the whole all of a sudden love aspect without them being deemed as mates or something other destined type relationship.  So, unless this is something that will be announced in a later book I thought it was a little quick for their feelings to develop and would have preferred feelings that grew a little more gradually.  Sierra's powers are exciting to see develop and I can't wait to read about her and Gavin's adventures in future books.  Absolutely recommend this book to paranormal genre lovers as this is a good start to a series that I am anticipating future releases of.  Kudos to this author for a job well done, can't wait to read more!

**I was gifted a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review**
333690
I only decided to buy the book because I thought the cover was good looking. This isn't a book where teenagers fall in love this is a book where you fall in love with their love. I was so into the book i finished it in a day and a half. I would recommend this to everyone who will listen.
3029620
fell in love with this book, as soon as I was done wanted to start reading it all over again
3032646
This book the first thing that caught my eye was the cover. It is just beautiful and so is the story inside. I loved the story line and caught myself getting my emotions involved in the book. That to me is a wonderful book to read and I am glad that I got the  opportunity to do so. The characters in the book I felt myself in one of their places. This is a "home run" for Ashley.
1924253
by Victoria Testa

Truly, it was love at first sight when I saw the cover of Hourglass. Committing one of the most punishable offenses a reader can make, I judged this book by its cover. Although it wasn't flashy or zany, the quiet mystery of this girl on the cover drew me in. As I became more and more intrigued by the cover, I instantly feared that the text would not live up to such hype. However, I faced no such disappointment as Hourglass exceeded my expectations.

The story follows Emerson Cole, a teenager gripped with visions of people from the past. After years of therapy and medication, Emerson is close to giving up. Yet, her well-meaning brother forces her to try one more counselor. One last shot at a "normal" existence.

Michael Weaver, her new consultant, is anything but "normal." Michael is kind, intelligent, and hot enough to melt butter, and Emerson is eager to see what tricks he has up his sleeve. Can Michael really be the key to curing this curse? Or are Emerson's visions really a blessing in disguise?

Myra McEntire bursts into the young adult scene with Hourglass. She captivates the reader instantly with her wit, charm, and spunk. Her unique voice can make you roll on the floor with laughter. However, it is the dark undertones of the novel that add the most mystery. Similar to the feeling of reading Harry Potter or Twilight, Myra McEntire's voice sucks you into the story with such force that you never want to leave. Hence, I was up until 2 A.M. finishing it, because it was simply too good to put down.

I fell in love with the characters in Hourglass instantly. Emerson is one of my new favorite heroines because she refuses to back down. Although she battles with inner-turmoil, she deflects her distress with sarcasm and confidence. Emerson's strong-willed, but tender, personality is admirable and extremely entertaining to experience.

I absolutely adored the chemistry between Michael and Emerson. Their personalities complement each other perfectly. Their dialogue is ingenious and hilarious as they bicker like an old married couple. Yet, despite these arguments, there is a spark between them that is always burning. Truly, the chemistry between them is electrifying.

For me, Hourglass was a beginning. It was the beginning of a new obsession in science fiction. A beginning of re-reading, and re-reading again, like it's the first time I laid eyes on it. A beginning of waiting for a sequel, which I hope will happen (fingers crossed!) With Hourglass, I am beginning my ascent into what feels like a strange, new, and wonderful world that I never want to leave.
2581412
Absolutely charming book!  I haven't been this invested in a fictional couple for quite a while.  Also, I'm still not over how gorgeous the cover is.
4153087
First off, I absolutely adore that cover! I've never been to Napa Valley but the stunning imagery in this book transported me there. I could see it so clearly in my mind and I could envision the gorgeous Jamie, too. I think I fell in love with him before Kate did! He was such a romantic, so sweet and genuine, caring and lovable, and so was Kate and Jamie's story. Highly recommend this one!
2502170
Review Originally Posted at: Book Freak

Rating: 4.5 Stars

First of all, I fell in love with the cover. It was simple, sexy and eye-catching. Much as I love the cover, the story was a great read itself. It had me reading non-stop, my perfect read in this rainy afternoon. Kaylee Ryan made me a fan when I read her first two novels. This time, she didn't allow me to change my mind. Tempting Tatum was simply amazing. You will fall in love with every character you will meet here  most especially Tatum.

Tatums whole world crumbled in one day. She lost her parents unexpectedly in a car accident, and when she was trying to see the comfort of her loving boyfriend she found him with another girl. OUCH. Good thing, her friend Leah and her fianc Brent was there for her. When they decided to move to Tennessee, they invited her. She was hesitant at first, but they have convinced her that this will be her new start.

Then she met Blaise Richards. They both shared the same experience when it comes to their ex-flames. But it didn't stop the spark from being there the first time that they have laid eyes on each other. Hes not just a talented tattoo artist, but he also volunteers his services as a firefighter. The first time he saw Tatum, he thought she got him under a spell. He couldn't get his eyes off her. She made him want things he thought he didn't want anymore.

She tried to fight it  she thought Blaise was just another one of those men who likes to play around. When the attraction grew stronger, and she decided she couldn't resist anymore, she decided shed make him her fling. But Blaise  OMG Blaise  he wouldnt settle for anything less. Hes the kind of man you would want, the kind of man youd love to bring home to your family to introduce. The kind of man you would most likely to fall in love with. He knows how to treat a lady, he knows how to make someone special. Maybe thats why Tatum found her resistance a futile effort. Who would not love this guy?

They were perfect for each other. Tatum is slowly healing. They were happy together. Shed gain new friends and family through Blaise, and I was wondering how in the world would Kaylee burst this bubble. And the moment she did that, Tatums almost-perfect world crumbled once again, along with her heart. I so hate the person who did that to her, she was ruthless and she deserved what she got in the first place. I was hoping that Tatum would realize that Blaise loved her more than the world itself, and would do everything to make her happy. I was crossing my fingers for both of them. And it was a relief that Kaylee gave me an ending that these two very well deserved.

Right from the cover, down to the very last page  Kaylee Ryan will captivate you with her words, pull you in with the romance, and before you knew it, your day passed away quietly because you were so engrossed reading this book and pinning for the characters. So, the next time Kaylee Ryan would write something, Im sure Id look forward reading it!

Complimentary Copy was given in exchange for an honest review.

More of my reviews at http://reviewsofabookmaniac.blogspot.com
644699
If this cover didn't draw you into an obsession, then I will be shocked. Because that's exactly what it did for me. I absolutely adore the covers and vision it gives for the book. So it breaks my heart to admit that the cover is the best part of this book. As it got closer to the release for this book, I began to see a lot of less-desirable thoughts on this book. Of course I was really hoping I wouldn't follow the flow of that, and that I'd really like the book. But alas and alack, it was not to be so.

For starters, we have Gray. From the start, you are in the head of a guy who is pretty rash and easily swayed by his emotions. In some ways, it can be annoying, but I let it pass. It felt natural with the things he was dealing with. No jump ahead 30% into the book. Instead of a boy who acts on impulse, we now have a big fat jerk. He ticked me off so much. I don't know what happened but he was becoming rude in places he didn't need to be! It was kinda shocking.

For example: [mild spoiler]
{Gray was just put before a council where a vote would be made whether he lives or dies. He's given his life, but after that, when one of the people who voted NAY did something, and another council member defended him, he just scoffs and has the nerve to be angry.} What the heck?! You just got your life and you're not letting it brush off? Oh and then there is the fact that he's always getting angry as his first reaction. Get a life bro. Point is, his attitude when from passable to jerkface. Not very impressive.

The other main issue I had was the love plot. Two words: Insta-Love. It was SOOO obvious to me. By 25% into the book the L word is used. Before that THERE WAS NO DEVELOPMENT AT ALL. Basically he likes a girl. She doesn't like him that much. They go on a "date". On that "date" she starts to be nicer to him. Then we have maybe a few more pages of describing that they hung out a lot and little more than that...and then BAM. They are kissing.

So now let's talk pacing. This book felt REALLY rushed to me. And not just in the romance. You know that intensely exciting premise that fits perfectly well with the gorgeous cover? Yeah that's over before we even hit the 25% mark. Way. Too. Easy. To elaborate more, I was missing details. Yes in the romance building, but also in the world building. We're in Claysoot for such a short time that I didn't get enough ground before she throws a few curveballs at us.

And that's another thing. This book was WAAAY predictable. I figured out a few major revelations a while before it happened. Because of that, it felt like the book lacked depth for me. Lots of things are happening but I wasn't feeling anything. It was words on a page. Not events and actions in a story.

Lastly, the only other thing I really want to touch up on was the plotting and elements of the story. It was very interesting to me because of the Claysoot Heist we read about in the premise. But since that's all over so quick, this plot looses a lot of it's originality. So many things just screaming cliche to me. I mean [mild spoiler] a rebel base hidden in a valley? How often has that happened before? Just things like that were kept at the very basic dystopian level so I missed out on a lot of cool and exciting things.

But enough sad negative stuff. This story, despite my dislike, was interesting enough to keep me reading past the halfway mark. I didn't get far enough into the love triangle to have anything to say on that, but heck, I already know Bree is the best. Bree for the win!!! And with that, I shut the door on book with a sad heart. I really hope you like this more than me. I really do. I know some people love it! So if you're hoping to love it, keep those awesome hopes up for it. Don't let my bummed-out-ness drag you down....

Content: Mild
[some mild language-innuendo-drinking]
2169456
After my mild disappointment in Hard Wired I cant say I was super stoked for Mature Content. But alas, I got one peek at that cover and whelp, here I am. Its a great cover, just delicious. Im pleased as punch to say the story found beyond the cover was equally satisfying.

With an entertaining storyline and witty dialogue, Beau and Zanes story was an easy one to become engrossed in. Im guessing this also has much (if not everything) to do with that seamless collaboration Ive come to rely on from Erickson and Hassell. I don't know how they do it, and really I don't want to know, but it works for me. Lets just call it magic. They could have maybe waved their magic wand a little harder towards the end, as the conflict resolution was a touch rushed. I do however notice this as a trend in the series so it is not terribly out of place.

Enemies to lovers books are not my first choice. I don't really like all the hate sex. And there is some here. However, I was totally onboard with watching their disdain for one another genuinely transform from hatred to love. I was surprised at the numerous moments tinged with sweet, tender romance. They were found to be in direct contrast to their scorching hot chemistry, but I think it totally worked for these characters.
1668294
I feel in love with this book by the authors name and the cover alone.
Then I won a copy of it on a website. I was ecstatic beyond belief.
The book , All The Ways To Ruin A Rogue by Sophie Jordan was burning a hole in my wallet so to speak... I couldn't wait try as hard as I might, So I ended up starting it within an hour after it arrived and didn't stop reading until the last page had been turned. Can you say Wow? that was how I felt after finishing this fabulous tale written so terrifically by Ms. Jordan.
I loved Aurelia's daring and sweet innocence combine into the alluring woman she became to make Max not know what hit him until it was too late...but would he accept the girl that captivated him from the start had turned into an equally captivating woman and give his love to his best friends little sister, his nemesis?! After all there's a fine line between love and hate and they are both about to find out.... it's what they do with it that remains to be seen.
Ms. Jordan's writing me crying , had me cheering to snickering to full out laughing at the antics of Max and Aurelia. I loved the way these characters were not only written but the way they made you feel inside. Add to that the secondary characters the made you want Ms. Jordan to write sequels so that we could revisit them all in the future and you ended up with a Keeper!
428477
Okay, yalllook at that cover. I do not know who the model is but to say Ive been lusting over him for a few months would not be a lie. This cover caught my eye and Ive been waiting for the book ever since.

We start by meeting Summer, who is starting college and it happens to be the same college that her stepbrother, Kevin, attends. Summer used to have feelings for Kevin, but that was before he betrayed her. Some wouldnt call it betrayal, but I would because Kevin is justI honestly don't think every horrible word I can find describes Kevin. Hes just a manipulative user and just treats everyone like garbage. I mean, he truly does. Tijan did an amazing job making me hate Kevin. Like, just writing this post makes my blood boil again.

The initial scene is Summer covering for Kevin, but its before she really is aware of whats happening and I don't think she truly knows what Kevin does nor his reputation. But this is also when she meets Caden.

Sort of an injection here: I absolutely LOVED how Summer was portrayed. I appreciated how we, as readers, get to realize how attractive Summer is. She isn't made into that character that is super hot but just doesnt know it. And yes, Summer clearly is attractive but doesnt know it. But that doesnt mean she is wallowing in low self-esteem either, or total oblivion. Summer is sort of socially awkward and funny and just herself. I think if Tijan hadnt made her character be that way,  I don't honestly think it would have been believable to see Caden being interested in her.

I also adored Caden. Another side note: this is my first Tijan book. I know, I realize the error of my ways and please forgive me. She is freaking incredible. Getting back on topic (sorry, I stalled out from having a mini fangirl moment). Caden has the reputation of being broody, a fighter, sort of a man-whore. But I love how Caden calls it what it is. If he wants to get drunk and have sex, he does and will. He just owns it. And not in a cocky way. Its matter-of-fact and truthful.

As the story goes, we see different situations happen, but Summer and Caden never really confirm anything. Its obvious they are together, but Summer isn't sure of the actual title and while she sort of wants to know, she also goes with it. I don't think until a very pivotal scene later does she fully realize that Caden does truly have feelings for her.

I feel like Im selling this review a little short but only in the face of saving spoilers. Because I don't want to spoil the last 20% or so for you. Which, for the record, had me messaging Tijan at like, 1:30AM and telling her thanks for ALMOST killing me but that my soul is slowly being revived. I want you to experience that for yourself. I was caught off-guard and she kills the ending.

I just adored this book. Anti Stepbrother is so good, I would recommend this to everyone. Summer and Caden had one of the most realistic connections and relationships that Ive read about lately. I mean, we always see the characters connect, but this was different. This was that connection that you want to have, but just cant because we don't always have it with everyone. So stop reading my blabbing about connections, go one-click!
890501
Quite honestly, I have wanted to read this books for months but really had no idea why.  I do love the cover and of course, that is what initially drew me in.  But there was something about the synopsis that grabbed my attention enough to make me purchase the book.  Even after the reviews started coming in (I didn't read them, but took a look at the ratings), I really still had no idea just what this book was about.  Nevertheless, I am glad that I picked it up because it was phenomenal.

It really didn't matter that I didn't have a basic understanding of what the novel was about when I began reading it.  The writing is so well done that it just sucks you in.  I actually think I enjoyed the book more not knowing as it allowed me the opportunity to just read and not compare it to other books.  It didn't lower my expectations for the book, but it did allow me to look read and approach it with an untainted outlook.

The interactions between characters was spot on.  Michelle Hodkin managed to give everyone their own personalities and that came across clearly in both situations and dialogue.  Conflicted and confused Mara, confident and endearing Noah, loyal and smart Daniel, mischievous and outspoken Jamie all added depth to the story.  The interaction between Mara and Noah is really kind of epic.

The book itself is quite large at close to 500 pages.  I think it's one of the larger YA titles I have read in the past year.  Having said that, those 500 pages go by like a breeze.  I got through this book in just over two hours because I just couldn't put it down and of course now I am eagerly anticipating the follow up which probably won't come out until next year some time!

The Unbecoming of Mara Dyer is a fabulous read with enough suspense, mystery and romance to keep the reading turning page after page.
3987620
The cover just arrived today, and i am compleatly shocked by the quality of it. My intention at first was to get this cover while i get one that represents who i am. But when it arrived it was love at first sight. It was stylish, luxurious, fits perfectly & it's FLAWLESS. I CAN HONESTLY SAY THAT I LOVE IT.

Thank you for your great service.
Get this cover NOW.
2991169
Can I first say this cover is as beautiful as the story inside truly. I absolutely loved this book. It pulls you in and doesn't let you go. The story, the characters, the emotions (believe me, you will go thru them), are all so realistic. This is a must read. I haven't  read a book yet that hasn't been amazing by Karina Halle, however this one I am over the moon, Estrellas, and universe for. I Will be re-reading this book about...now!
4178248
Originally posted on the blog: The Bibliophile's Corner

Cover Talk: This cover is so beautiful! It's a colorful and crazy, which is exactly how the book is. I am also a huge fan of the girls' hair and face. It is dead on to how I imagine Alyssa to look.

First Impressions: When I saw this on GoodReads and then on Tami's blog, I jumped at the chance to be able to read it and review it early. I have always been captivated by the darker aspects of fairy tales and I knew this one would be good.

First Line: "I've been collecting bugs since I was ten; it's the only way I can stop their whispers."

Characters: Alyssa is such a complex character. Even though I'm 22 and not 17, I can completely identify Alyssa's struggle between her light side and dark side. I am a bit of a psychology buff and believe that everyone has both sides, but some people have a harder time balancing the two. I really loved the psychological aspect in the beginning of the book. Again, I can identify not wanting to have the same mental issues as some people in my family. But of course, in this book, Alyssa begins to realize that none of them are crazy. She is much more amazing than she realizes.

Jeb is such the knight in shining armor. Oh my word, really. He annoys me only because from the beginning it is painfully obvious that Jeb is in love with Alyssa. Just as obvious as Alyssa being in love with Jeb. But the dummyhead didn't do anything! Dummy, sweet dummy. But in Wonderland, I just really loved how much of a protector he became of Alyssa. I feel like with both Alyssa and Jeb, their most prominent characteristic became intensified. Alyssa's darker side and Jeb's protective side.

Morpheus is my favorite character. I know exactly what my husband will say too, "Stop falling for the bad guy." I can't help it! And I wouldn't say Morpheus is the "bad guy" per se. He's just...he has his reasons, okay? But really. His character is one of my favorites and I absolutely adore him. His is sarcastic, serious, and it's obvious that he loves Alyssa.

As for the rest of the characters, I really don't want to ruin anything. You should all be familiar with the Alice in Wonderland characters: Caterpillar, White Rabbit, Queen of Hearts, Mad Hatter, Door Mouse, etc. But...they're creepy and none of them are quite what the fairy tale makes them out to be. Howard did a brilliant job at keeping some semblance of the characters, but did a even more brilliant job at making them creepy and entirely unique.

Plot: Fairy tale retellings are some of my favorite themes in YA books lately. I haven't read too many of them, but they're on my list. Splintered is sure to be a 2013 bestseller. Alyssa is such an strong heroine, willing to do anything and everything she can to save her family from this curse. She is going on my list of favorite YA heroines.

If you will allow me to nerd out a bit, can I just say the "A" of Alyssa's family made me happy. First, there is Alice, then Alison, and then Alyssa. I love it. As someone with an "A" name, my heart was happy. Oh and, um, this book made me want to go back to my natural blonde hair. True story.

Now back to the plot. This book is so incredible. It visits each major Alice in Wonderland setting, character, and completely blew my mind.

I loved the love triangle. Wait, what? Yes. I have never loved one before now because the two guys that the girl was torn between never really did anything for me. But oh my word. Jeb is the sweetest freaking thing on the planet. And Morpheus. Oh, dear Morpheus. Dark, mysterious, sexy, manipulative. I loved him. So much.

I do not know if there is a sequel planned, but from how it ends, I certainly hope there will be. Not only do I want to see where the romance bit goes, but I really want to go back to Wonderland.

Final Thoughts: I am such a huge fan of this book. I will be buying it the day it comes out and re-read it over and over. Howard wrote this debut wonderfully. If anyone is a fan of the creepy and darker side of Alice in Wonderland, be sure to read this book.