REVIEW: From Here to You by Jamie McGuire

Publisher's Summary:
As Darby Dixon sits in a tiny Texas church bathroom on her wedding day holding a positive pregnancy test, she realizes that of all the bad decisions she's made in her life, marrying her abusive fiancé would be the worst. She's never been able to stand up for herself, but she'll sure as hell stand up for her baby. With just the cash she has on hand, she runs to get a bus ticket to the farthest place she can afford. Between her sheer grit and pageant-queen smile, she lands a job as a front desk clerk at the Colorado Springs Hotel. It's not a glamorous life, but she and her baby are all that matters.

A former Marine, Scott "Trex" Trexler has worked in the most dangerous, corrupt, war-torn places on earth. Now he finally has a chance to return to the last place he'd felt at peace--Colorado Springs, Colorado, to take a new job with the Cheyenne Mountain Complex, a top-secret military installation buried deep within the granite.

The moment Trex walks into the inn, Darby knows he's dangerous. There's no way she wants to get involved with another man who seems to be keeping way too many secrets. As charming and devastatingly gorgeous as Trex is, he clearly isn't telling her everything. But as wildfires rage on the mountain and Darby's ex-fiancé shows he isn't so willing to let her go, both she and Trex are soon to find out that what you don't know absolutely can hurt you.

_______________________________________

Loosely connected to the Maddox Brothers books by the same author, From Here to You tries hard to be a sweeping romance full of angst and too much extra plot. Unfortunately, the relationship that develops between Darby and Trex feels predictable, trite and far too rushed. From the first few chapters, it is too easy to for readers to predict the outcome--Ex beauty queen Darby, discovering she's pregnant, flees her abusive soldier fiance and lands in Colorado Springs.  Low and behold, ex Marine, ex FBI, current private government contractor, Trex appears as her knight in shining armor.

They're soulmates! But Darby can't make up her mind and tends to make some really impulsive, stupid decisions and Trex is far too enamored with her to see that things might get worse before they get better.

**SPOILER**

Reader's can see abusive Shawn's return a mile away. Darby does some stupid things that put her and her baby's lives in jeopardy but convenient that Trex and his super team of highly trained ex-soldiers can fix it.

Honestly, I wanted to like it, but the pacing was slow and reading to the end felt like work rather than escapism. A 3 out of 5 is generous since it should be more like a 2.5 out of 5.

There are similar authors like Colleen Hoover and Jay Crownover who handle the genre with more flare.

REVIEW: Without Merit by Colleen Hoover

The Voss family is anything but normal. They live in a repurposed church, newly baptized Dollar Voss. The once cancer-stricken mother lives in the basement, the father is married to the mother’s former nurse, the little half-brother isn’t allowed to do or eat anything fun, and the eldest siblings are irritatingly perfect. Then, there’s Merit who collects trophies she hasn’t earned and secrets her family forces her to keep. She's sarcastic and withdrawn, feeling outshined by others in her family.

While browsing the local antiques shop for her next trophy, she finds Sagan. His wit and unapologetic idealism disarm and spark renewed life into her—until she discovers that he’s completely unavailable. Merit retreats deeper into herself, watching her family from the sidelines when she learns a secret that no trophy in the world can fix.

Fed up with the lies, Merit decides to shatter the happy family illusion that she’s never been a part of before leaving them behind for good. When her escape plan fails, Merit is forced to deal with the staggering consequences of telling the truth and losing the one boy she loves.

Hoover does what she does best, write about interesting characters who wriggle under the readers' skin and make an impact with their biting humor, significant and unique world struggles. Merit is uniquely likeable in her own unlikeable way. Readers feel for her but want to shake her at the same time. 

Without Merit itself fits as a new adult romance/YA crossover book. I'd recommend it for YA readers transitioning to adulthood but have liked Sarah Dessen, Katie McGarry and other similar writers.

I enjoyed this wacky, dysfunctional family despite the book's imperfections.  There's a lot going on here including themes like mental illness, sexuality, suicide, abuse, even the Syrian refugee crisis while meshing it all with a romance plot. Sure, there are imperfections but I found this to be an engrossing, quick read. The audiobook narration by Candace Thaxton was excellent.

Final rating: 4 out of 5 stars

REVIEW: Trust by Kylie Scott

*Thanks to Netgalley for an ARC in exchange for a fair review*

Expected publication: July 18, 2017

After being held hostage during a robbery at the local convenience store, seventeen-year-old Edie finds her attitude about life shattered. Unwilling to put up with the snobbery and bullying at her private school, she enrolls at the local public high school, crossing paths with John. The boy who risked his life to save hers.

While Edie’s beginning to run wild, however, John’s just starting to settle down. After years of partying and dealing drugs with his older brother, he’s going straight—getting to class on time, and thinking about the future.

An unlikely bond grows between the two as John keeps Edie out of trouble and helps her broaden her horizons. But when he helps her out with another first—losing her virginity—their friendship gets complicated.

Meanwhile, Edie and John are pulled back into the dangerous world they narrowly escaped. They were lucky to survive the first time, but this time they have more to lose—each other.

I enjoyed this--good premise, angst and romance. The character development is sound; however, I did feel like some aspects were rushed and could use some more transitional development. Best categorized as an emerging new adult title rather than YA, despite the fact that the main characters are in high school.  I say this mainly but some of the sex scenes are rather explicit. 

Final rating: 4 out of 5 stars

REVIEW: Slammed (1-3) by Colleen Hoover

Following the unexpected death of her father, 18-year-old high school senior Layken travels from Texas to Michigan with her mother and younger brother.  Grieving the loss of her parent and life as she knew it, things unexpectedly look up with she meets charming and attractive neighbor Will Cooper, who has a passion for slam poetry. Within days of their introduction, they've formed a real connection, giving Layken a new lease on life until a startling revelation slams them both back to reality.

Slammed is told entirely from Layken's POV and explores her feelings at dealing with all the challenges life throws at her from the loss of her father, her complicated relationship with Will, as well as the secret news leveled at her by her mother that will leave her wrecked beyond belief.

This is very much a coming of age novel with a strong emphasis on negotiating responsibility and relationships.  While characteristic of Hoover's writing angst ridden, complicated characters, I could certainly tell this was her debut novel.  The style, structure and word choice lacks the sophistication which she's developed over the past few years.

Final rating: 3 out of 5 stars

Told from Will's POV, Point of Retreat is a continuation of Slammed.  The couple have weathered the storm surrounding the unfortunate beginning of their relationship, extreme personal responsibilities and unspeakable loss. When someone from Will's past re-emerges, the core of their relationship is tested.

Honestly, for me, the majority of this book is about Layken being stupid and blowing circumstances completely out of proportion to the point that I wanted Will to 'retreat' and run as fast as he could in the opposite direction. Once Will and Layken get their ducks in a row, readers experience the expected "You've Got to Be Kidding" moment which puts multiple characters in peril but pushes the narrative through to the happily ever after.

I am still a bigger fan of Will and other secondary characters than the female protagonist who is sometimes just 'butterflying' obnoxious.

Final rating: 3 out of 5 stars

In this final book, Will and Layken have managed to work out their issues and have gotten married.  During their honeymoon, she asks Will to recount important moments of his life before he met her as well as key instances of their relationship from his POV.

There are a few surprising confessions on Will's part, mostly serving the purpose to rile Layken up so she acts like a brat, giving this narrative some drama so that the characters can fight, talk and make up.

Final rating: 3 out of 5 stars

Overall, I enjoyed the trilogy but these books aren't my favorite examples of Hoover's writing.  She's come light-years as a writing in just over 4 years with respect to honing her craft and style. She's tightened her structure and vocabulary to omit a lot of the repetitiveness which I disliked about the Slammed series.

Follow the author on Twitter: @colleenhoover



#slammed #newadult #grief #relationships #responsibility #romance

REVIEW: Hopeless/Losing Hope by Colleen Hoover

Nearly 18 year old Sky thinks she's had a pretty sheltered life--home-schooled, no phone, no internet. Until her senior year when her life takes a drastic change upon meeting Dean Holder--a guy with a reputation that rivals her own and an uncanny ability to invoke feelings in her she’s never had before. She's both terrified and captivated by him, especially since he makes her feel sparks buried memories from a past that she wishes could just stay buried. Soon Sky learns that Holder isn't who he claims to be and that her life holds far more buried secrets than she ever imagined.

Hopeless is as endearing in its romance and it is devastating for readers as the novel's characters learn the full scope of trauma propelling their lives.  This was my first Colleen Hoover book, a recent re-read, and still by far my favorite of her works to date. The characters resonate in not only their hope but hopelessness in a way not often found in typical books.

Final rating: 5 out of 5 stars

Losing Hope is partly Hopeless from Holder's POV; however, there is much more at work here for the characters and the overall reader experience. The narrative starts just after Holder's sister Leslie's suicide continuing as he meets Sky and their relationship blossoms while painful truths are revealed.

I loved Holder in the first book but this solidifies his character and sheds light on his inner pain from his childhood, loosing his sister and struggling whether to tell Sky the truth or wait to see if she remembers her past. I like the chapter structures as well--made me ball my eyes out a few times.

I've read the novella Finding Cinderella and always wondered where David fit it---now I know.

My only fault with this book is the blame and inner dialog and specific memories Holder and the others share from when they were five years old. I see the point to make the plot work but I don't find the level of detail or dialog believable from children that young since I work with kids this young each day.

Final rating: 4 out of 5 stars


Follow the author on Twitter: @colleenhoover



#hopeless #losinghope #newadultromance #grief #repressedmemories #suicide #abuse

REVIEW: Electric Series (1-4) by E.L. Todd

In book 1, readers meet Volt, a pretty decent and smokin' hot young professional in NYC ready to propose to the girl of his dreams.  When she breaks his heart, he swears off relationships and becomes the ultimate player.

Two years pass. Enter Taylor, a new teacher eager to mold young minds at an exclusive NYC private high school.  By chance she meets Volt and the chemistry is certainly there, but she's convinced that his wondering eye and promiscuity mean he isn't dating material.  What happens is what neither were expecting--the development of a profound friendship which remains charged with electric chemistry.

Throughout the remainder of the series: Spark, Burn, Combust these two characters experience a roller coaster of emotions and relationship starts and stops.

Will they or won't they?

If the do, will it last or will too much drive them apart?

Overall, I liked the series but after a while both Volt and Taylor started to drive me batty. His escalating jealousy is too much to handle despite readers knowing his past and trigger points.  Too bad Taylor isn't clued in.  These two fall into the typical NA trap of not really being good for each other but not being able to live without each other either.

I continue to see improvement in Todd's writing over the course of this series as well as her earlier works.  What I want to see continue to evolve is her sense of nuance and inserting plot devices that might not be as obvious.  Readers can guess from the beginning what the big reveal will most likely be but its a bit to blatant. Who would be friends for so long and not realize a connection between last names or even see a picture of a BFF?  Seriously!

Final rating: 3.75/5 stars

Follow the author on Twitter: @E_L_Todd

Buy the books here.


#Electric #ELTodd #romance #review

REVIEW: It Ends With Us by Colleen Hoover

Growing up in a small town in Maine, Lily Bloom's life wasn't always easy.  Her father might have been the mayor, but he also spent years emotionally and physically abusing her mother.  Lily great up with terror and hate in her heart.  One bright spot yet filled with melancholy was Atlas, a homeless boy from school with whom she grows particularly close. And yet, even their relationship ends with heartbreak but Lily just can't quite forget him.

Skip forward nine years, Lily lives in Boston and works in marketing but it isn't her passion.  One night following the funeral of her father, she meet Ryle Kincaid, a dashing neurosurgeon. Each hurting, they share several naked truths but part ways.  However, fate intervenes, bringing the two together again. Lily thinks that life just might be too good to be true...and it is.

Much happens in a short period of time.  Lily begins a relationship with Ryle, only to have Atlas pop back into her life.  She's ready to move on; however, jealousy and other behaviors begin to paint a dangerous picture of Ryle.  Soon Lily becomes the type of woman she swore never to be--lying about abuse and convincing herself to stay because each time Ryle swears it will never happen again.

This is the type of book that left me with conflicting emotions.  I spent most of the book shouting aloud and furious with the characters.  In its favor, that means that I was highly engaged with with lives of these characters.  On the flip side, Ryle is a douche. I hate him with a fiery passion but he has a few redeeming moments but needs to seriously own up to his issues AND continue intensive therapy.

Lily's characterization is very realistic of someone who has grown up in an abusive household, promising that she won't follow the same path, only to find herself in the same situation. During these moments of indecision I was very frustrated. However, there is redemption and an emotional maturity once she has the "it ends with us" epiphany.  I liked the ending and that Lily and Atlas seemed to finally come full circle in each of their lives so that they can really have a shot at forever.

Overall, It Ends With Us isn't my favorite Hoover novel to date.  That award still goes to Hopeless; however, this is still an engaging new adult 'romance' with an important message.

Final rating: 4 out of 5 stars

Follow the author on Twitter:  @colleenhoover


#ItEndsWithUs #allthefeels #fightdomesticabuse

REVIEW: Roomhate by Penelope Ward

Amelia's grandmother has passed away, leaving her part ownership of a beach cottage on Aquidneck Island.  The other problem is that her former childhood best friend owns the other part of the house.  Whoever said time heals all wounds hadn't ever met Justin.  Although time has passed, he's still resentful toward Amelia and the fact that she disappeared from his life.

Stuck as roommates, Amelia can't get over the hurt or the escalating feelings of attraction for Justin who is even better looking now than he ever was as a teen.  As their relationship mends itself and heats up, they must weather a hurricane of emotions and obstacles before hate turns to love and a possible happy ending.

I had mixed feelings about this one.  Justin is pretty much a dick and while he does redeem himself by the end, it is hard to put his attitude and treatment of Amelia behind as the romance blooms. That being said, I'm not a huge fan of Amelia either.  Roomhate is a pretty good representation of the New Adult genre - angst, relationships, identity and some sexy times.

One downside for me was definitely the audiobook.  It was pretty awful actually. I didn't care at all for the narrator who didn't do much for Amelia or authenticity of voice.

Final rating: 3 out of 5 stars

Follow the author on Twitter: @PenelopeAuthor



#roomhate #penelopeward #newadultromance #erotic #angst #friendship

COVER REVEAL: Long Way Home by Katie McGarry

"An intoxicating and unforgettable story that kept me glued to the page."

—Kami Garcia, #1 New York Times bestselling author, on Walk the Edge

Seventeen-year-old Violet has always been expected to sit back and let the boys do all the saving.

It’s the code her father, a member of the Reign of Terror motorcycle club, raised her to live by. Yet when her dad is killed carrying out Terror business, Violet knows it’s up to her to do the saving. To protect herself, and her vulnerable younger brother, she needs to cut all ties with the club—including Chevy, the boy she’s known and loved her whole life.

But when a rival club comes after Violet, exposing old secrets and making new threats, she’s forced to question what she thought she knew about her father, the Reign of Terror, and what she thinks she wants. Which means re-evaluating everything: love, family, friends . . . and forgiveness.

Caught in the crosshairs between loyalty and freedom, Violet must decide whether old friends can be trusted—and if she’s strong enough to be the one person to save them all.

Add it to your Goodreads Now!

LONG WAY HOME Pre-Order Links:

Amazon:  http://amzn.to/29kYGo2

Kobo: http://bit.ly/29f7tpS  

BAM: http://bit.ly/298Brtj

Barnes and Noble: http://bit.ly/29e4z8v

iBooks: http://apple.co/29e4F06

IndieBound: http://bit.ly/29aLSkP

And Don’t Miss the First Two Titles in the Thunder Road Series!

NOWHERE BUT HERE

WALK THE EDGE

Katie McGarry Bio:

Katie McGarry was a teenager during the age of grunge and boy bands and remembers those years as the best and worst of her life. She is a lover of music, happy endings, reality television, and is a secret University of Kentucky basketball fan.

Katie is the author of full length YA novels, PUSHING THE LIMITS, DARE YOU TO, CRASH INTO YOU, TAKE ME ON,  BREAKING THE RULES, and NOWHERE BUT HERE and the e-novellas, CROSSING THE LINE and RED AT NIGHT. Her debut YA novel, PUSHING THE LIMITS was a 2012 Goodreads Choice Finalist for YA Fiction, a RT Magazine's 2012 Reviewer's Choice Awards Nominee for Young Adult Contemporary Novel, a double Rita Finalist, and a 2013 YALSA Top Ten Teen Pick. DARE YOU TO was also a Goodreads Choice Finalist for YA Fiction and won RT Magazine’s Reviewer’s Choice Best Book Award for Young Adult Contemporary fiction in 2013.

Links:

Website: www.katielmcgarry.com

Twitter: @katiemcgarry

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/katielmcgarry

Goodreads: http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/4575371.Katie_McGarry?from_search=true

Pinterest: http://www.pinterest.com/katielmcgarry/

Tumbler: https://www.tumblr.com/blog/katiemcgarryauthor

Instagram: http://instagram.com/katielmcgarry

REVIEW: Fall with Me (Wait for You #4) by J. Lynn

Just when I think I've already met my favorite couple in the series I'm surprised by falling in love with new characters. We met Roxy in the last book. A super cool, artistic waitress at Mona's with a definite attraction for hot cop, Reece.  The queen of avoidance, Roxy has spent the better part of a year dodging Reece after one fateful night of misunderstandings but Reese is determined. When events from her past collide with the present, Roxy will have to rely on Reece even if she fears a broken heart.

Charlie, her best friend since birth has been in a long-term care facility since he became a victim of a hate crime 6 years ago and the person who put him in there, Henry, is out of prison and wanting to make amends. Roxy’s not sure she has room for forgiveness in her and when she begins to receive frightening messages and is on the receiving end of escalating violence she's quick to presume Henry's to blame. Reece isn't so sure but he's determine to protect Roxy until they discover who is stalking her and victimizing other young women in the surrounding community. 

Roxy is super fun and snarky but her struggle to forgive herself for her role in Charlie's condition is heart-wrenching.  She's equally frustrating with her delay in being truthful with Reece about their previous night together and the fact that super freaky things are happening inside her apartment. Reece is a pretty swoon worthy hero but this is one of those romance novels where I would have liked to have alternating POV and a bit more insight to his thoughts and how he's processing the trauma in his past and his relationship with Roxy.

Loved the angst and the super hot sexy times.  Most of the favorite previous characters make an appearance too.  I adore psychic, stripper Katie and predict some major bombshells for Cam and Avery!

Another outstanding audio narration by Sophie Eastlake (@sereads)!!

Final rating: 5 out of 5 stars

Follow the author on Twitter: @JLArmentrout




#fallwithme #waitforyou #jenniferlarmentrout #newadult #romance #books #swoon

REVIEW: Be With Me (Wait For You #2) by J. Lynn

Be with Me is the second in the Wait for You series and follows Teresa (Tess), Cam's little sister as she falls for his best friend Jace. A survivor of physical abuse, Teresa's life is in transition since a potentially career ending knee injury has derailed her full time dance studies.  Trying to heal, she's beginning college classes and trying to ignore her growing feelings for her brother's best friend.

Jace has some secrets of his own which stunt his ability to commit to anyone for fear of being hurt. What he feels for Teresa is all too real and he has a lot to work out in the emotional department if they're going to have a happy ending.

Besides their romance, the novel centers profoundly around surviving physically abusive relationships.  Teresa got out of one and when she sees that her roommate might be in a similar situation, she speaks up despite a devastating outcome.

I adored this book too. It continues to build upon characters introduced in book 1 and I love that Cam and Avery are back.  I like Teresa and Jace. The attraction is believable as is the smoldering build-up of their relationship. The trials and tribulations are expected for character development.  The pivotal story climax for Teresa had me on the edge of my seat.

All in all a great romantic, sexy book with plenty of heart.  Check out the audiobook read by Sophie Eastlake!

Final rating: 5 out of 5 stars

Follow the author on Twitter: @JLArmentrout


#bewithme #waitforyou #jenniferlarmentrout #romance #newadult #domesticviolence #bookreview

REVIEW: Wait For You (#1) by J. Lynn

Book 1 in the Wait for You series follows Avery Morgansten as she embarks on her freshman year of college in West Virginia. Determined to escape what happened to her at a Halloween party five years ago, she's left Texas and her family behind as well as the constant, degrading bullying from part of her past.  All Avery wants to do is to blend in and make it to classes on time; however, life is anything but predictable.

Enter Cameron at 6'3'' and full of swoon-worthy charm from is dark hair to his striking blue eyes.  He's remarkably charming and seems to be there literally every time Avery turns around.  As their friendship and attraction turns to more, something special might be over before its truly begun. Avery must face her past in order to have the future with Cam they both deserve.

I loved it! There is a realness to the characters and developing relationship.  I love the snark but also the vulnerability of Avery. She's been hurt badly but it growing as a person and is a strong woman. I adore Cam and his approach to breaking down Avery's walls.  It is always nice to have an alpha man character that shows some restraint and isn't quite as in your face annoying as in some books.

Without spoiling too much, I do think Wait for You sends a positive message to rape survivors that meaningful romantic relationships and a successful life are possible in light of such trauma. Avery's journey hasn't been an easy one but she has endured and come out of it stronger.

I really enjoyed the pacing and introduction of other characters. The audiobook narrated by Sophie Eastlake was quite expressive.

Final rating: 5 out of 5 stars

Follow the author on Twitter: @JLArmentrout




#newadult #romance #waitforyou #angst #survivor #bookreview #jenniferlarmentrout

REVIEW: Monday by E.L. Todd

A big THANKS to @inkslingerpr and author, E.L. Todd for the review opportunity!

Expected publication: May 3, 2016

Fallen Publishing - buy it here.

Francesca aka 'Frankie' is a twenty something college student working as a barista at the local coffee shop, 'The Grind'. School is just a means to an end before she endeavors to live her true dream: opening a bakery in Manhattan.  Frankie is no stranger to tragedy or emotional loss, having lost both her parents at a young age. She isn't necessarily looking for love, but when fate intercedes, Frankie finds her soulmate.

Hawke is as gorgeous as he is troubled.  Working as an intern and hell bent on succeeding in the cut throat money trading world, his player attitude and behavior is a defense mechanism wrought from surviving an abusive, turbulent childhood.  Hawke can't escape and put his past behind him since his mother refuses to leave the violent situation--one in which Hawke fears he won't be fast enough to save her one time.

When Frankie and Hawke meet, the attraction is instant.  He pushes her away for fear that he'd hurt her. However, destiny won't be ignored. As their paths cross again, a deep bond of friendship and intimacy neither has experienced before plants the roots for a relationship that is as tumultuous as it is passionate. Sometimes love just isn't enough.

I devoured Monday in virtually one sitting. Todd's characters and their stories are compelling.  There is a nice balance of timely humor, angst and realistic relationship woes mixed with intensely hot, passionate love scenes and a rise in climatic plot tension as everything in Hawke's life seems to explode. I both loved and hated the ending.  As I neared the finish, I was worried that all the problems would be magically solved in a few pages.  That isn't the case. Instead, Todd leaves readers wanting more with a well crafted relationship cliffhanger.  Hence why I 'hated' the ending a little bit too.

That being said, Frankie and Hawke's story continues in Tuesday and Wednesday. True Timeless series fans will be thrilled that Marie and Axel get two books of their own, Thursday and Friday. Publication for all titles is May 3, 2016.

Enjoy!

Final rating: 4 out of 5 stars

Follow the author on Twitter: @E_L_TODD



#Monday #Timeless #ELTodd #romance #NA #inkslingerpr #erotic #books

REVIEW: Walk the Edge by Katie McGarry

Two worlds collide in Katie McGarry's second installment to the Thunder Road series.

Available March 29, 2016 from Harlequin Teen

Breanna Miller has always been known as the freakishly smart good girl.  She's determined to be less invisible during her senior year before fleeing Snowflake, Kentucky but she never considered being noticed would change her life in so many ways.

Thomas 'Razor' Turner is one of the more volitale young members of the Reign of Terror MC. Devilishly handsome, fiercely protective and intelligent, he's also haunted by the death of his mother and a slew of unanswered questions. 

Fate brings these two together.  Breanna's in need of a protector and she also might be the only person who can help Razor solve the puzzle of his mother's death. When an intensely intimate but rather innocent moment between the two is photographed, Breanna is blackmailed and seeks Razor's help but as these two spend more time together, their feelings grow.  Both 'walk the edge' between who they are and who they want to be.

I'm a huge Katie McGarry fan and Walk the Edge doesn't disappoint with action, suspense and memorable characters.  The novel is a the perfect blent of edgy, realistic fiction and romance but balances relevant real-life issue such as identity, grief, suicide, and social media threats to one's reputation. Definitely for ages 14 and up due to language, some violence and sexual situations.  I've already added Razor to my neverending book boyfriend list.  He's an intense, dangerous bad boy but loving, brave and protective of those he cares about.  Each of the main characters grows throughout the story and overall, I loved the reading experience!

Final rating: 5 out of 5 stars

Keep reading below for a brief Q & A from Katie and an exclusive excerpt!

Q:  What do you most want readers to know about Walk the Edge?

A : Walk the Edge is the story of the boy everyone sees, but nobody knows who is with the girl everybody knows but nobody sees. 

Q:  What is in store for the next book in the Thunder Road series?

A: I'm currently working on the third book of the Thunder Road series which will be Chevy and Violet's story. 

Q:  Can you tell readers a bit about the experience writing Walk the Edge? Was the process comparable to other books or different in any way?

A: Walk the Edge came surprisingly easy. Razor and Breanna are characters who are just meant to be together and their story flowed.

________________________________Excerpt_______________________________

    Her face is white against her raven hair. Ghost white. I’d bet my left ball she hasn’t breathed since I spoke. Her hand is outstretched toward the busted cell on the ground, but her wide hazel eyes are cemented on me. I turn my head and I’m greeted by the amused faces of my brothers from the Reign of Terror who stand next to their bikes in the parking lot. They’ll be harassing me on this for weeks. Fuck me for trying to be chivalrous.

    “You okay?” It’s a variation of the question I asked a few seconds ago, but this one she seems to understand as her body trembles to life.

    “Um…” she stutters. We’ve been at the same schools since elementary age, otherwise I’d wonder if she was a foreign exchange student with limited English. “I only have twenty dollars.”

    The muscles in the back of my neck tense. “I’m not going to jack you for your money.”

    She quits breathing again.

    “Nice to know your current bank account status,” I bite. “But I asked you if you were okay.”

    Color returns to her cheeks as I pin her with my gaze. She accused me of trying to rob her. I know it, she knows it, and she’s now informed I’m not the asshole in this scenario.

    “Yes,” she finally answers. “I’m okay. I mean no…I mean…I broke my phone.”

    She did and that sucks for her.

    Her eyes flicker between me and the phone like she wants to retrieve it, yet she’s too paralyzed. Saving us from this torture, I swipe the pieces of the cell and lean against the wall.

    The distance between us relaxes her and that gulp of air was audible as she tucks herself tight in the corner farthest from me. This reaction isn’t new. I’ve seen it since I was a child whenever my father or anyone from the Terror entered a room full of civilians. To everyone outside of the club, we’re the evil motorcycle gang bent on blowing the house down.

    People and their hellish nightmare folklore involving us piss me off. I don’t know why I told the guys to give me a minute. I’m late for plans I made with Chevy and some girls, plus I’m on call in case the board chooses to meet sooner rather than later to discuss Detective Jake Barlow.

    But something about how this chick appeared alone and frightened messed me up. It reminded me…The thought stalls and the emotional speed bump causes a flash of pain in my chest. Screw it, her expression reminded me of Mom the last time I saw her—the night she died.

    My mom. I shake my head to expel her ghost. One visit from one bastard trying to use me and I’m being haunted by a past I can’t change. That’s what the detective was salivating over—to use me for info on the club. He’s one of too many who believes our club is the devil’s prodigy.

    What he doesn’t see is that we’re a family—the type of family that comes when called. Obviously not like this girl’s family.

    “Is it yes or no?” It’s damn difficult to shove the battery in now that the frame is bent.

    “Yes or no what?” her long black hair sweeps past her shoulders. She has the type of hair that would have to be pulled up if she rode on the back of my bike. Gotta admit, I like her hair, especially how it shines under the lights of the school’s overhang.

    “If you’re okay.” I survey the mostly empty area to prove a point. “If we leave, you’ll be alone, and I don’t care of that. There’s some real psychos out there.”

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About Katie McGarry

Katie McGarry was a teenager during the age of grunge and boy bands and remembers those years as the best and worst of her life. She is a lover of music, happy endings, reality television, and is a secret University of Kentucky basketball fan.

Katie is the author of full length YA novels, PUSHING THE LIMITS, DARE YOU TO, CRASH INTO YOU, TAKE ME ON,  BREAKING THE RULES, and NOWHERE BUT HERE and the e-novellas, CROSSING THE LINE and RED AT NIGHT. Her debut YA novel, PUSHING THE LIMITS was a 2012 Goodreads Choice Finalist for YA Fiction, a RT Magazine's 2012 Reviewer's Choice Awards Nominee for Young Adult Contemporary Novel, a double Rita Finalist, and a 2013 YALSA Top Ten Teen Pick. DARE YOU TO was also a Goodreads Choice Finalist for YA Fiction and won RT Magazine’s Reviewer’s Choice Best Book Award for Young Adult Contemporary fiction in 2013.

Links:

Website: www.katielmcgarry.com

Twitter: @katiemcgarry

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/katielmcgarry

Goodreads: http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/4575371.Katie_McGarry?from_search=true

Pinterest: http://www.pinterest.com/katielmcgarry/

Tumbler: https://www.tumblr.com/blog/katiemcgarryauthor

Instagram: http://instagram.com/katielmcgarry

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A big thanks to @katiemcgarry @HarlequinTeen and @InkSlingerPR

#WalkTheEdge #ThunderRoad #KatieMcGarry #YAlit #romance #realisticfiction #bikers #mystery #newadult

REVIEW: Arena by Holly Jennings

*A big thanks to Netgalley for the ARC!*

Expected publication: April 5, 2016

Arena is a face paced virtual gaming-centric story set in the near future. The RAGE tournaments--the Virtual Gaming League's elite competition, pit highly skilled teams against each other in a no holds barred virtual gaming battle in hopes of gaining international stardom and financial security. 

Kali Ling is the first female captain in history; however, the road to success is littered with unexpected bumps as she and her teammates are forced to endure life in the spotlight and surprising losses in and out of the arena. Kali soon learns that the VGL harbors some secrets of its own and it will take all her strength, cunning and friends to overcome adversity and come out on top.

This is a science fiction release for primarily an new adult/adult audience in mind; however, there is significant crossover appeal for a mature teen reader.  Be advised that there are strong themes of violence, drug use (including an overdose) and sexual situations. This is ideal for fans of Ready Player One and the Hunger Games but who are also fans of gladiators and online gaming.  I breezed through the book in no time and really enjoyed the energetic pacing and characters.  Despite some flaws, this is a strong debut by Jennings.

Final rating: 4 out of 5 stars

Follow the author on Twitter: @HollyN_Jennings



#Arena #gaming #HollyJennings #newadult #YAlit #sciencefiction #action #netgalley #Books

REVIEW: Lost & Found by Nicole Williams

Lost & Found is the first of a new adult romance series by Nicole Williams, author of the Crash trilogy.  Rowen hasn't had it easy. Having spent the last five years numbing her pain with boys, alcohol, drugs and general trouble-making, she must spend the summer working on a ranch in Montana with hopes that proving herself responsible enough that her mother will pay for her dream of attending a prestigious art school. Sporting a Goth wardrobe that is unlike anything they've ever seen on the ranch, Rowen is fully dreading her summer punishment.

Enter Jesse. The hotter than hot ranch hand with painted on jeans-- who just happens to be the single son of the ranch owner. He is the light to Rowen's dark.  The attraction is there from day one; however, the real question is whether Rowen will allow herself to fall for Jesse or if she will let her past ruin her chance at happiness.

My overall rating for this is a 3 out of 5 stars.  There is plenty of angst as well as complicated relationship trials and tribulations.  The characters are believable; however, Rowen is exceedingly frustrated with her yo-yoing emotions.  If this were real life, Jesse would have a long road ahead of him with having to put up with Rowen's mood swings.  As a reader, I wished that more time had been spent on Rowen's past and how that and her relationship with her mother impacted her life.  I thought the portrayal of her mother was a bit one note.  Lastly, Jesse has a difficult past of his own but that really was glossed over and I wanted more.

If you like new adult romance, give this a shot.  I'd also recommend this for a transitioning YA reader who would be interested in delving into a new genre. It's a sometimes steamy read, but not too steamy!

#lost&found #nicolewilliams #newadult #newadultromance #romance #montana #cowboys

REVIEW: Leaving Amarillo by Caisey Quinn

Leaving Amarillo is the first in the Neon Dreams new adult romance series. Told from nineteen-year-old fiddle player, Dixie's POV, the story centers on her band's struggling rise to success.  Having lost their parents at an early age, Dixie and her brother, Dallas, the band's front-man as well as his best friend and drummer, Gavin, are determined to make their mark on the country music scene; however, the road to success is not without its potholes.

All Dixie can seem to think about is the unbearable attraction she feels toward Gavin.  In turn, he is just as attracted to her but maintains his distance out of fierce loyalty to his best friend.  Forced into close quarters on tour, Dixie confesses her feelings, getting Gavin to agree to just one night together. What remains to be seen is if one night will be enough for either of them or if sneaking around will set off an explosion of consequences that neither of them are prepared to explore.

Quinn does a stellar job of incorporating a passion for music with the general nuances of new adult romance including anger, grief, and other profound issues surrounding the main characters.  As a reader, I hope that there is more exploration of Gavin's past and his problematic relationship with his addict mother. I like Dixie. She's smart and sassy but needs to have knock down, blow out fight with her well meaning but overprotective brother.

I wholeheartedly recommend this series to fans of new adult romance and similar contemporary romance involving music. Be prepared for frustration since this is an ongoing story. There is no clear conclusion in sight.  The story continues in the summer of 2015 with the followup, Loving Dallas.

Overall I give this a 4 out of 5 stars.

Follow the author on twitter @caiseyquinn.

#leavingamarillo #neondreams #lovingdallas #caiseyquinn #newadult #newadultromance