Review: A Song for Julia by Charles Sheehan-Miles

Hi!

I hope you've all had a wonderful Christmas! :)

Before I get to the end of the year posts, here's one more recommendation from me:

A Song for Julia (Thompson Sisters #1) 
by Charles Sheehan-Miles


Release date: December 5th 2012
by Cincinnatus Press
Format: Paperback, 374 pages

Goodreads: 

Everyone should have something to rebel against.

Crank Wilson left his South Boston home at sixteen to start a punk band and burn out his rage at the world. Six years later, he’s still at odds with his father, a Boston cop, and doesn’t ever speak to his mother. The only relationship that really matters is with his younger brother, but watching out for Sean can be a full-time job. The one thing Crank wants in life is to be left the hell alone to write his music and drive his band to success.

Julia Thompson left a secret behind in Beijing that exploded into scandal in Washington, DC, threatening her father's career and dominating her family's life. Now, in her senior year at Harvard, she's haunted by a voice from her past and refuses to ever lose control of her emotions again, especially when it comes to a guy.

When Julia and Crank meet at an anti-war protest in Washington in the fall of 2002, the connection between them is so powerful it threatens to tear everything apart.

My thoughts:

A Song for Julia was a truly special book. I loved Just Remember to Breathe, but there was something so much more powerful and beautiful and touching about this story! I read it in one sitting and it left me a little lost after I finished it. I mean, you know that 'book hangover' feeling us book addicts get from time to time, right? That's what this book did to me. And I loved it!

But let me start at the beginning. Julia is Alex's (the heroine from Just Remember to Breathe) oldest sister. We got a glimpse of her in that book too and it was enough to intrigue me. I had a feeling she had her own good story, so I was very excited when I found out Charles Sheehan-Miles was writing it. And it was better than I expected! So, we go back in time a few years, in the early 2000s, when Julia and Crank first met. She was a proper, rich, perfect girl, he was a punk singer with family issues and a band that was struggling. They were so wrong, and yet so right for each other!

There was something about her, though. Sexy as hell, but that wasn’t really it. I looked at her, and it was like she was ready to explode. I’d lived on rage and adrenaline most of the last six years, and when I looked at Julia, I thought I saw someone who understood that. (Crank)

Julia and her story broke my heart. She had a troubled past, a very dark secret and a scarred soul that no one even knew about. In the past few years, she's been a shell of a person, trying to do the right thing for her controlling parents who never understood or helped her, trying to live as best as she could given the circumstances. Always in control of her thoughts, emotions, actions and reactions, never letting her guard down for anyone or anything. But all that was about to change.

I’ve never liked feeling out of control. Not like that. I’d gone there once, head over heels in love, and it did so much damage to my life I didn’t think I’d ever recover. No way I’d ever go there again. Whatever else happened, I was in control of my life. No one else. Certainly not some formless emotion and lust that can take away who you even are. (Julia)

She has friends, a big family with many sisters, but she's closed off from all of them. And then she meets Crank and realizes there might be more to life than what she was having. There can be passion, there can be someone who understands you, there can be someone worth leaving your defenses down for at least for a little while. There can be someone worth facing your past for. Someone who is the opposite of what everyone wants and expects for you. Someone you didn't know you needed until you met him.

Julia and Crank meet at an anti-war protest, away from home, and they just click. There are all sorts of signs telling them they should stay away from each other, not to mention that she's the oldest daughter of an Ambassador, a very smart Harvard girl and he's a player and a struggling band singer who hasn't even finished high school, but their connection is too intense and different from everything they've had before to ignore. They spend a great day in Washington, then they attempt to put it behind them and get back to their respective lives.

My life didn’t have room for someone like Crank. And from what he’d said, his didn’t have room either. This was all a little off-key, out of place, almost as if it was someone else out to dinner with him, and I was playing a role. I almost never go out with guys. And I never let my emotions get ahead of my brain. But tonight, as we tried to wave down a cab to head toward Georgetown, I was feeling a little out of control. (Julia)

But like the fact that they couldn't stop thinking about each other wasn't bad enough, they kept bumping into each other (sometimes literally) back in Boston as well. And that's how their crazy, beautiful, heartbreaking story began. Their banter was awesome, their relationship had its up and downs, there were harsh truths and high emotions all over the place, Crank and his band cracked me up, I hated Julia's parents with a passion (especially the mom, ugh - if there's a ever a book titled 'Things a Mother Should Never Ever Do/Say to her Daughter', Julia's mom made sure to do all of them and then some), I really felt for Crank's broken family, but it was the story behind all that what really got me. A beautiful story about healing, compassion, fighting your past once and for all and putting it behind you, about caring and fighting for someone even when they keep pushing you away, about breaking walls, barriers, customs and expectations, about finding your way in life and about not giving up when everything and everyone keeps hurting you or pushing you around and trying to control your life choices. About taking risks, trusting your heart, but most importantly, about trusting someone else with it again. About seeing beyond the carefully placed facade, beyond rumors and appearances, about learning that what's underneath it all is special and worth loving and fighting for. About not letting guilt, hurt and fear dictate how you live your life. About truth, freedom, rebellion, fighting against the odds and taking control of your own life. About passion, music and special relationships. In short, this is a story about trust, hope, love and healing. A true life lesson.

I'm not going to get into details, I get teary eyed just looking through my favorite quotes and passages and thinking about everything Julia went through, but you have to read it. One of the most deserved 'happily ever after's I've read in a long time! Oh, and yeah. Alternative POVs - you know I'm addicted to two POVs stories. ;)

The writing is brilliant too! Even Julia's POV is very well done, you can feel all the emotions pouring out from the page and pulling at your heart strings. They both have unique, but realistic, powerful and easy to relate to voices and personalities. An all around amazing book!

Other favorite quotes:

It’s amazing how you can say a lot of words that are all true, and completely obscure the truth at the same time. I was an expert at that. I spend my life spinning a web of half spoken truths; an armor weaved of words that do nothing but hide who I am.
He grinned and very gently shook his head. “Nothing to rebel against? Nothing at all?”
“Nope,” I replied. Except maybe my mother, who controlled every moment of my life. But that’s more than I was willing to say.
“That’s sad,” Cranks said. “Everyone should have something to rebel against.” (Julia)

This was different. It was very different. Everything I’d seen of Julia fascinated me. She was kind, and compassionate, and smart as hell, and she was also one moody bitch. Call me crazy, but that combination was one hell of a turn-on. I wanted to break her out of that shell and find out what she was like underneath. (Crank)

“What did you do to her? Why did she leave like that?”
I took a deep breath and answered honestly. 
“I told her I loved her.” (Crank) *tear*

“ You need to know that I’d do anything for you … even kiss you goodbye and watch you go. ” (Crank) 

Get the book: (the kindle edition is only $0.99!!)

Amazon / B & N / The Book Depository

And my giveaway for the first book in the series, Just Remember to Breathe, is still open!

I added the playlist the author set up for the book on youtube here. And here's a song I really liked and I think really captures some of the feelings in the book: 





Review copy provided by the author Charles Sheehan-Miles and the blog tour host in exchange for my honest opinion. THANK YOU!

P.S. Recommended for readers who also enjoyed Easy by Tammara Webber and The Sea of Tranquility by Kaja Millay.
P.P.S. You can read it even if you haven't read the first book in the series. 

Review: A Song for Julia by Charles Sheehan-Miles

Hi!

I hope you've all had a wonderful Christmas! :)

Before I get to the end of the year posts, here's one more recommendation from me:

A Song for Julia (Thompson Sisters #1) 
by Charles Sheehan-Miles


Release date: December 5th 2012
by Cincinnatus Press
Format: Paperback, 374 pages

Goodreads: 

Everyone should have something to rebel against.

Crank Wilson left his South Boston home at sixteen to start a punk band and burn out his rage at the world. Six years later, he’s still at odds with his father, a Boston cop, and doesn’t ever speak to his mother. The only relationship that really matters is with his younger brother, but watching out for Sean can be a full-time job. The one thing Crank wants in life is to be left the hell alone to write his music and drive his band to success.

Julia Thompson left a secret behind in Beijing that exploded into scandal in Washington, DC, threatening her father's career and dominating her family's life. Now, in her senior year at Harvard, she's haunted by a voice from her past and refuses to ever lose control of her emotions again, especially when it comes to a guy.

When Julia and Crank meet at an anti-war protest in Washington in the fall of 2002, the connection between them is so powerful it threatens to tear everything apart.

My thoughts:

A Song for Julia was a truly special book. I loved Just Remember to Breathe, but there was something so much more powerful and beautiful and touching about this story! I read it in one sitting and it left me a little lost after I finished it. I mean, you know that 'book hangover' feeling us book addicts get from time to time, right? That's what this book did to me. And I loved it!

But let me start at the beginning. Julia is Alex's (the heroine from Just Remember to Breathe) oldest sister. We got a glimpse of her in that book too and it was enough to intrigue me. I had a feeling she had her own good story, so I was very excited when I found out Charles Sheehan-Miles was writing it. And it was better than I expected! So, we go back in time a few years, in the early 2000s, when Julia and Crank first met. She was a proper, rich, perfect girl, he was a punk singer with family issues and a band that was struggling. They were so wrong, and yet so right for each other!

There was something about her, though. Sexy as hell, but that wasn’t really it. I looked at her, and it was like she was ready to explode. I’d lived on rage and adrenaline most of the last six years, and when I looked at Julia, I thought I saw someone who understood that. (Crank)

Julia and her story broke my heart. She had a troubled past, a very dark secret and a scarred soul that no one even knew about. In the past few years, she's been a shell of a person, trying to do the right thing for her controlling parents who never understood or helped her, trying to live as best as she could given the circumstances. Always in control of her thoughts, emotions, actions and reactions, never letting her guard down for anyone or anything. But all that was about to change.

I’ve never liked feeling out of control. Not like that. I’d gone there once, head over heels in love, and it did so much damage to my life I didn’t think I’d ever recover. No way I’d ever go there again. Whatever else happened, I was in control of my life. No one else. Certainly not some formless emotion and lust that can take away who you even are. (Julia)

She has friends, a big family with many sisters, but she's closed off from all of them. And then she meets Crank and realizes there might be more to life than what she was having. There can be passion, there can be someone who understands you, there can be someone worth leaving your defenses down for at least for a little while. There can be someone worth facing your past for. Someone who is the opposite of what everyone wants and expects for you. Someone you didn't know you needed until you met him.

Julia and Crank meet at an anti-war protest, away from home, and they just click. There are all sorts of signs telling them they should stay away from each other, not to mention that she's the oldest daughter of an Ambassador, a very smart Harvard girl and he's a player and a struggling band singer who hasn't even finished high school, but their connection is too intense and different from everything they've had before to ignore. They spend a great day in Washington, then they attempt to put it behind them and get back to their respective lives.

My life didn’t have room for someone like Crank. And from what he’d said, his didn’t have room either. This was all a little off-key, out of place, almost as if it was someone else out to dinner with him, and I was playing a role. I almost never go out with guys. And I never let my emotions get ahead of my brain. But tonight, as we tried to wave down a cab to head toward Georgetown, I was feeling a little out of control. (Julia)

But like the fact that they couldn't stop thinking about each other wasn't bad enough, they kept bumping into each other (sometimes literally) back in Boston as well. And that's how their crazy, beautiful, heartbreaking story began. Their banter was awesome, their relationship had its up and downs, there were harsh truths and high emotions all over the place, Crank and his band cracked me up, I hated Julia's parents with a passion (especially the mom, ugh - if there's a ever a book titled 'Things a Mother Should Never Ever Do/Say to her Daughter', Julia's mom made sure to do all of them and then some), I really felt for Crank's broken family, but it was the story behind all that what really got me. A beautiful story about healing, compassion, fighting your past once and for all and putting it behind you, about caring and fighting for someone even when they keep pushing you away, about breaking walls, barriers, customs and expectations, about finding your way in life and about not giving up when everything and everyone keeps hurting you or pushing you around and trying to control your life choices. About taking risks, trusting your heart, but most importantly, about trusting someone else with it again. About seeing beyond the carefully placed facade, beyond rumors and appearances, about learning that what's underneath it all is special and worth loving and fighting for. About not letting guilt, hurt and fear dictate how you live your life. About truth, freedom, rebellion, fighting against the odds and taking control of your own life. About passion, music and special relationships. In short, this is a story about trust, hope, love and healing. A true life lesson.

I'm not going to get into details, I get teary eyed just looking through my favorite quotes and passages and thinking about everything Julia went through, but you have to read it. One of the most deserved 'happily ever after's I've read in a long time! Oh, and yeah. Alternative POVs - you know I'm addicted to two POVs stories. ;)

The writing is brilliant too! Even Julia's POV is very well done, you can feel all the emotions pouring out from the page and pulling at your heart strings. They both have unique, but realistic, powerful and easy to relate to voices and personalities. An all around amazing book!

Other favorite quotes:

It’s amazing how you can say a lot of words that are all true, and completely obscure the truth at the same time. I was an expert at that. I spend my life spinning a web of half spoken truths; an armor weaved of words that do nothing but hide who I am.
He grinned and very gently shook his head. “Nothing to rebel against? Nothing at all?”
“Nope,” I replied. Except maybe my mother, who controlled every moment of my life. But that’s more than I was willing to say.
“That’s sad,” Cranks said. “Everyone should have something to rebel against.” (Julia)

This was different. It was very different. Everything I’d seen of Julia fascinated me. She was kind, and compassionate, and smart as hell, and she was also one moody bitch. Call me crazy, but that combination was one hell of a turn-on. I wanted to break her out of that shell and find out what she was like underneath. (Crank)

“What did you do to her? Why did she leave like that?”
I took a deep breath and answered honestly. 
“I told her I loved her.” (Crank) *tear*

“ You need to know that I’d do anything for you … even kiss you goodbye and watch you go. ” (Crank) 

Get the book: (the kindle edition is only $0.99!!)

Amazon / B & N / The Book Depository

And my giveaway for the first book in the series, Just Remember to Breathe, is still open!

I added the playlist the author set up for the book on youtube here. And here's a song I really liked and I think really captures some of the feelings in the book: 





Review copy provided by the author Charles Sheehan-Miles and the blog tour host in exchange for my honest opinion. THANK YOU!

P.S. Recommended for readers who also enjoyed Easy by Tammara Webber and The Sea of Tranquility by Kaja Millay.
P.P.S. You can read it even if you haven't read the first book in the series. 

Review: Valkyrie Rising (Valkyrie #1) by Ingrid Paulson

Hey guys!

Long time no see! I hope everyone is doing great!:)

I haven't got that much time to read and blog lately, but I should have a few reviews posted soon.

Valkyrie Rising (Valkyrie #1) 
by Ingrid Paulson
Published: October 9th 2012
by HarperTeen
Format: Hardcover, 352 pages

Goodreads: 

Nothing ever happens in Norway. But at least Ellie knows what to expect when she visits her grandmother: a tranquil fishing village and long, slow summer days. And maybe she’ll finally get out from under the shadow of her way-too-perfect big brother, Graham, while she’s there.

What Ellie doesn’t anticipate is Graham’s infuriating best friend, Tuck, tagging along for the trip. Nor did she imagine boys going missing amid rumors of impossible kidnappings. Least of all does she expect something powerful and ancient to awaken in her and that strange whispers would urge Ellie to claim her place among mythological warriors. Instead of peace and quiet, there’s suddenly a lot for a girl from L.A. to handle on a summer sojourn in Norway! And when Graham vanishes, it’s up to Ellie—and the ever-sarcastic, if undeniably alluring Tuck—to uncover the truth about all the disappearances and thwart the nefarious plan behind them.

Deadly legends, hidden identities, and tentative romance swirl together in one girl’s unexpectedly-epic coming of age.

My thoughts:

I have mixed feelings about this book. Overall, I liked it, but sometimes it kind of irritated me, so it took me longer than usual to get through it. I'll get on the details in a bit.

The premise might sound familiar for Young Adult Paranormal books: main characters find out about the existence of a supernatural world and their connection to the supernatural creatures living among them, they get pulled into that world, bad things happen, villain shows up, more dangerous things happen, villain is defeated, characters grow stronger by the end of the book and find out more about them and their past. There's also some romance thrown in into the mix. But despite the familiarity, there was something totally original and very interesting about Valkyrie Rising. First, we have the setting: Norway, then, we have the mythology and the supernatural world intertwined with the human world and then the kickass characters. Fascinating!

The synopsis is a little too spoiler-y for my liking, but there were enough twists and turns in the book to keep me interested and engaged in the story.

Ellie is a normal, LA teenage girl. She has problems with her overbearing, overprotective brother and his too-charming-for-their-own-good best friend, but she manages just fine. And then she goes to her grandmother in Norway for the summer and everything changes.

The village where her grandmother lives is kind of creepy. There are all sorts of rumors around it and people look at Ellie and treat her strangely. And when big brother extraordinaine and his trouble-maker friend join her, things get even more interesting - and downright weird and scary. Because there might be some truth behind the whispers in the village and there might be something supernatural and really creepy about the disappearances of all the young boys in the area. And like worrying about that and about Graham being the next capture wasn't enough, Ellie starts to feel the rising of some dark, strange power inside her and the calls of other mythological beings who prowl around.

While my logical self told me to take the car, something primal within me howled that I’d be faster and safer on foot. Invisible. Once the night air filled my lungs, my instincts were honed to a razor-sharp clarity. I could see each leaf on every tree. The wind whispered secrets, carrying to my ears the footfalls of the squirrels and deer in the forest. I could smell the salt in the air and feel the slightest shift in the wind’s direction. Something was happening to me. It was as electrifying as plunging headfirst into ice-cold water—every molecule of my body was alert, awake, and screaming for action. 

There are many secrets in her family and around that place, but she doesn't get a chance to explore them, because a turn of events thrust her into action and all she can do is fight for her life, for the people she cares about and for the innocent lives that got caught in the crossfire. And that was what I loved the most about this book: the action, the suspense, the mystery, the presence of kickass characters, the mythology beings and their badass, action-movie moves...

“Get away from her!” I screamed as I threw the dagger at the Valkyrie. I hadn’t known I had that kind of violence in me until my fingers relaxed, letting the blade fly. One manicured hand snatched the blade from the air without flinching. 

There was never a dull moment in the second part of the book. Except for Ellie's childish behavior and annoying whiny thoughts, that is. Which brings me to what I didn't love about this book: I couldn't really connect with the main character, Ellie. I liked her when she took action and fought for everyone's safety, when she confronted beings so much older, more knowledgeable and powerful than her, when she stood up for her brother and the boy she secretly loved, but that part of her was too much in contrast with the normal, teenage girl. To me, it felt like that immature side of her was a bit forced (not realistic enough); it was like she was made to act dumb, insecure, stubborn, reckless and whiny because that's how teenagers are supposed to behave, not because that's what she was actually like or that's how she really felt. Does this make any sense? Ugh, what I'm trying to say is that, in my opinion, the change from badass Valkyire who can kill everyone in two seconds flat, face some very powerful beings and a Norse God to a whiny, insecure teenager was too abrupt. Of course, she had plenty of moments of strength, determination and courage and that's when I was cheering her on.

I liked her relationship with Tuck, though. They both have feelings for each other, but they've also known each other forever and they don't want to ruin that or to hurt her brother in the process (infamous player going after his best friend's younger sister and all that), so they don't act on those feelings - not right away, anyway. Their banter was priceless (it kind of reminded me of Daemon and Katy from Obsidian by Jennifer L Armentrout). And Tuck was pretty badass himself, even though he had his own secrets, mood swings and conflicted emotions. Fun, playful and a real charmer. *swoon*

When I looked at him that closely, at those white teeth framed by that deceptively innocent smile, I knew why Tucker Halloway excelled at getting whatever he wanted—especially from girls. And I couldn’t fathom why he was wasting that particular talent on me when bullying and mockery had always been the accepted currency between the two of us. “What do you want?” I asked, instantly wary. “Shouldn’t you be enjoying the party?” His smile curled up at one corner, proof positive he was up to no good.

“I meant, why play games? I get by just fine on looks alone.” His smile was blinding, driving his point home. “Don’t forget your charming personality,” I said, and my stomach flipped when his grin widened at my words. Making Tucker laugh was the best kind of rush. “I hear modesty is quite the aphrodisiac,” I added.

Graham's condescending, overprotective, patronizing attitude got a little on my nerves too, but overall, I liked the secondary characters. They were all unique and had their own important roles in the story. The grandmother was so awesome! Not what you would expect when visiting old relatives on the other side of the world. *thumbs up*

So, like I said, mixed feelings. I loved the action, the setting, the mythology and the characters most of the time, but there were a few moments when I just wanted to get into the book and shake them senseless. Or to throw the book across the room (thankfully, there weren't many of those moments). The writing is engrossing and it flows naturally, so there's a lot of potential to this series. The only other Valkyries I read about were in the Immortals After Dark series by Kresley Cole, but that's an adult romance series, so things were a bit different. Still, I think it's safe to say that they are some of my favorite supernatural creatures in lit, so I'll probably read the next book in this series when it comes out as well!

Get the book: Amazon / B & N / The Book Depository

Stalk the author: Facebook / Twitter / Website

Review: Valkyrie Rising (Valkyrie #1) by Ingrid Paulson

Hey guys!

Long time no see! I hope everyone is doing great!:)

I haven't got that much time to read and blog lately, but I should have a few reviews posted soon.

Valkyrie Rising (Valkyrie #1) 
by Ingrid Paulson
Published: October 9th 2012
by HarperTeen
Format: Hardcover, 352 pages

Goodreads: 

Nothing ever happens in Norway. But at least Ellie knows what to expect when she visits her grandmother: a tranquil fishing village and long, slow summer days. And maybe she’ll finally get out from under the shadow of her way-too-perfect big brother, Graham, while she’s there.

What Ellie doesn’t anticipate is Graham’s infuriating best friend, Tuck, tagging along for the trip. Nor did she imagine boys going missing amid rumors of impossible kidnappings. Least of all does she expect something powerful and ancient to awaken in her and that strange whispers would urge Ellie to claim her place among mythological warriors. Instead of peace and quiet, there’s suddenly a lot for a girl from L.A. to handle on a summer sojourn in Norway! And when Graham vanishes, it’s up to Ellie—and the ever-sarcastic, if undeniably alluring Tuck—to uncover the truth about all the disappearances and thwart the nefarious plan behind them.

Deadly legends, hidden identities, and tentative romance swirl together in one girl’s unexpectedly-epic coming of age.

My thoughts:

I have mixed feelings about this book. Overall, I liked it, but sometimes it kind of irritated me, so it took me longer than usual to get through it. I'll get on the details in a bit.

The premise might sound familiar for Young Adult Paranormal books: main characters find out about the existence of a supernatural world and their connection to the supernatural creatures living among them, they get pulled into that world, bad things happen, villain shows up, more dangerous things happen, villain is defeated, characters grow stronger by the end of the book and find out more about them and their past. There's also some romance thrown in into the mix. But despite the familiarity, there was something totally original and very interesting about Valkyrie Rising. First, we have the setting: Norway, then, we have the mythology and the supernatural world intertwined with the human world and then the kickass characters. Fascinating!

The synopsis is a little too spoiler-y for my liking, but there were enough twists and turns in the book to keep me interested and engaged in the story.

Ellie is a normal, LA teenage girl. She has problems with her overbearing, overprotective brother and his too-charming-for-their-own-good best friend, but she manages just fine. And then she goes to her grandmother in Norway for the summer and everything changes.

The village where her grandmother lives is kind of creepy. There are all sorts of rumors around it and people look at Ellie and treat her strangely. And when big brother extraordinaine and his trouble-maker friend join her, things get even more interesting - and downright weird and scary. Because there might be some truth behind the whispers in the village and there might be something supernatural and really creepy about the disappearances of all the young boys in the area. And like worrying about that and about Graham being the next capture wasn't enough, Ellie starts to feel the rising of some dark, strange power inside her and the calls of other mythological beings who prowl around.

While my logical self told me to take the car, something primal within me howled that I’d be faster and safer on foot. Invisible. Once the night air filled my lungs, my instincts were honed to a razor-sharp clarity. I could see each leaf on every tree. The wind whispered secrets, carrying to my ears the footfalls of the squirrels and deer in the forest. I could smell the salt in the air and feel the slightest shift in the wind’s direction. Something was happening to me. It was as electrifying as plunging headfirst into ice-cold water—every molecule of my body was alert, awake, and screaming for action. 

There are many secrets in her family and around that place, but she doesn't get a chance to explore them, because a turn of events thrust her into action and all she can do is fight for her life, for the people she cares about and for the innocent lives that got caught in the crossfire. And that was what I loved the most about this book: the action, the suspense, the mystery, the presence of kickass characters, the mythology beings and their badass, action-movie moves...

“Get away from her!” I screamed as I threw the dagger at the Valkyrie. I hadn’t known I had that kind of violence in me until my fingers relaxed, letting the blade fly. One manicured hand snatched the blade from the air without flinching. 

There was never a dull moment in the second part of the book. Except for Ellie's childish behavior and annoying whiny thoughts, that is. Which brings me to what I didn't love about this book: I couldn't really connect with the main character, Ellie. I liked her when she took action and fought for everyone's safety, when she confronted beings so much older, more knowledgeable and powerful than her, when she stood up for her brother and the boy she secretly loved, but that part of her was too much in contrast with the normal, teenage girl. To me, it felt like that immature side of her was a bit forced (not realistic enough); it was like she was made to act dumb, insecure, stubborn, reckless and whiny because that's how teenagers are supposed to behave, not because that's what she was actually like or that's how she really felt. Does this make any sense? Ugh, what I'm trying to say is that, in my opinion, the change from badass Valkyire who can kill everyone in two seconds flat, face some very powerful beings and a Norse God to a whiny, insecure teenager was too abrupt. Of course, she had plenty of moments of strength, determination and courage and that's when I was cheering her on.

I liked her relationship with Tuck, though. They both have feelings for each other, but they've also known each other forever and they don't want to ruin that or to hurt her brother in the process (infamous player going after his best friend's younger sister and all that), so they don't act on those feelings - not right away, anyway. Their banter was priceless (it kind of reminded me of Daemon and Katy from Obsidian by Jennifer L Armentrout). And Tuck was pretty badass himself, even though he had his own secrets, mood swings and conflicted emotions. Fun, playful and a real charmer. *swoon*

When I looked at him that closely, at those white teeth framed by that deceptively innocent smile, I knew why Tucker Halloway excelled at getting whatever he wanted—especially from girls. And I couldn’t fathom why he was wasting that particular talent on me when bullying and mockery had always been the accepted currency between the two of us. “What do you want?” I asked, instantly wary. “Shouldn’t you be enjoying the party?” His smile curled up at one corner, proof positive he was up to no good.

“I meant, why play games? I get by just fine on looks alone.” His smile was blinding, driving his point home. “Don’t forget your charming personality,” I said, and my stomach flipped when his grin widened at my words. Making Tucker laugh was the best kind of rush. “I hear modesty is quite the aphrodisiac,” I added.

Graham's condescending, overprotective, patronizing attitude got a little on my nerves too, but overall, I liked the secondary characters. They were all unique and had their own important roles in the story. The grandmother was so awesome! Not what you would expect when visiting old relatives on the other side of the world. *thumbs up*

So, like I said, mixed feelings. I loved the action, the setting, the mythology and the characters most of the time, but there were a few moments when I just wanted to get into the book and shake them senseless. Or to throw the book across the room (thankfully, there weren't many of those moments). The writing is engrossing and it flows naturally, so there's a lot of potential to this series. The only other Valkyries I read about were in the Immortals After Dark series by Kresley Cole, but that's an adult romance series, so things were a bit different. Still, I think it's safe to say that they are some of my favorite supernatural creatures in lit, so I'll probably read the next book in this series when it comes out as well!

Get the book: Amazon / B & N / The Book Depository

Stalk the author: Facebook / Twitter / Website

Review: Just for Now (Sea Breeze #4) by Abbi Glines

Hi!

Just for Now (Sea Breeze #4) 
by Abbi Glines

Published: October 30th 2012
by Simon & Schuster
Format: Kindle Edition, 304 pages

Goodreads

The day Preston Drake figured out that wealthy women paid well for a set of tight abs and a pretty face his life turned around.

The run down rat-infested trailer he had shared with his alcoholic mother and three younger siblings was now only a place he visited to pay the bills and stock the pantry with food.

He no longer worried about his family starving or living without electricity. The money he made entertaining rich older women more than covered his family’s needs and his own. He had it all figured out. Except…

There was this girl.

She was as innocent as he was tainted.

Amanda Hardy wished her knees didn’t get weak when Preston walked into a room. She hated the fact her heart raced when he flashed his smile in her direction. He had a different girl in his bed every night. He was the kind of boy a smart girl ran from. So, why was she coming up with ways to get close to him? Even when it was obvious he wanted to keep her at a distance.

Maybe her heart knew something the world didn’t. Maybe Preston Drake was more than just a pretty face.

My thoughts on Breathe (Sea Breeze #1), 

Because of Low (Sea Breeze #2)

and While It Lasts (Sea Breeze #3). 

My thoughts:

I'm keeping these reviews short and sweet, because that's what these books are for me: short and sweet one-sit-reads that always put me in a good mood. I love Abbi Glines' writing and her books always melt my heart and put a smile on my face. It's kind of amazing the amount of emotions her characters and their stories make me feel in such a short time!

Just for Now was one of my most anticipated releases of the season. I love this series and this group we've been following since book #1 and I've been dying to get Preston's entire story since book #2 (or was it book #1? Hmm, I don't know, but I've always been intrigued by him and believed there was a good story right there. And I was right.) He was funny, charming and a real player - but somehow different than Cage. And I was happy when I realized that Amanda was going to be the girl to get under his skin and show us what was behind those walls of his, but, considering what we knew of Amanda and his history, my first thought was 'Uh-oh. This one is going to be tricky'.

Amanda is Marcus' (Preston's best friend we met in book #2) sweet and innocent little sister, which means she's totally off limits for him. Besides, considering his life style, she's way out of his league. But the attraction between them is undeniable so maybe, just maybe, it could work between them? But at what cost?

The guys were my family, but Marcus was my brother. Blood didn’t matter. He’d cared when no one else had known there was something to care about. I had to let this fascination I had with his sister go. 

It's been a while since I read the previous books, but I think I was more emotionally connected with this one and these characters. My heart broke for them even from the beginning, when something meant to happen for a long time didn't go as it was supposed to. I really felt for Amanda, and even though sometimes I just wanted to reach into the book and shake her, to scream at her to be stronger, most of the time I just wanted to hug her, to support her and cheer her on, because if anyone could work things out and be happy with Preston, it was her. Especially when everyone on Earth and their sister kept warning her away from him and trying to get in their way or to control her life. Grrr! But she was stronger than everyone else thought. She was sweet, selfless and caring and warmed up to Preston and his family's life easily.

For the first time in my life, I didn’t feel alone. (Preston)

Willow sighed. “She’ll need room to breathe soon enough, Marcus. You can love her and care about her while you stand back and let her make her own decisions. She isn’t the little girl you took care of all your life. She’s a big girl now. Don’t forget that.” (Did I ever mention that Willow is my favorite heroine in this series? Yup, she still is. )

Amanda always had feelings for Preston and his behavior hurt her many times. Not to mention that she had to keep everything to herself, because she never wanted to ruin Preston's relationship with her brother and she thought Preston would never notice her. Not the way she craved for, anyway. But even when she started acting on those feeling and fighting for the man she loved, things didn't get easier. There were lots of complications, insecurities and hurt feelings on both sides.

Manda was different. She made me feel things. Things I’d prayed I’d never experience, because acting on them would be impossible.

Preston stared at me a moment, and then a small smile touched his lips for the first time today. I was so happy to see that smile. “You’re amazing, and you don’t even know it.”

There was passion, but there was also pain. There was hope, but there was also hopelessness. There was love, but there was also betrayal. There were tears, but there were also smiles and moments of joy. Such a beautiful, emotional story!

Anyway, I love Preston! He's sweet, charming, protective, incredibly hot and has a wicked sense of humor. What else could a girl ask for?:D Yes, he has his secrets and all, but he's a survivor and a fighter and will stop at nothing when it comes to the people he loves and their well being. Opening up to Amanda and believing in their relationship was probably one of the hardest things for him to do. His story was heartbreaking, but I loved the way he and Amanda clicked by the end. And OMG! That chemistry, that passion! Phew, despite their issues and bumps in the road, their relationship was hot and intense! Really, this book was a major swoon-fest! (not suited for a YA audience, btw).

I loved that all the previous couples made an appearance as well, I missed them. :) I just love this group and how close they all are! And I know we're getting back to Cage and Eva for the next book (eep!), but I wouldn't mind it if Jason and Dewayne got their own stories after that either. ;)

I have yet to read a book by Abbi Glines and be disappointed. Every time I finish one of her books, I think the next one can't get any better than that. And then she writes a story like this one and I'm blown away all over again! I'm looking forward to the next one!

Other favorite quotes:

I didn’t want to keep my distance. I might not get to have her again, but I liked being near her. She made me happy. She made the darkness not seem too smothering. “I want to be friends,” I explained, watching her chew her bottom lip nervously.  

“I’ll be good. I promise. I’ll be the best damn friend you’ve ever had.” His voice had lowered into a husky whisper. I shivered from the sexy sound. (...)

“Friends don’t get this close, Preston,” I said, and I started to take a step back when he pulled me tightly against him. “No, Manda, they don’t. But I can’t stop wanting you close. Can we be close friends?” He asked, lowering his head until his warm breath tickled my ear. Closing my eyes tightly, I grabbed his arms to keep myself steady. What was he doing? “I like you close. Real close.” 

“Nothing about this thing we have is a bad thing. I’m not gonna lie about it: I don’t deserve you. I’m sure as hell not good enough for you, but as long as you want me, I’m all yours.” 

He smiled and lowered his head until his lips hovered over mine. “I love you with a scary, insane, wild, amazing love. I always will. No one else could ever make me feel this way.”

*sigh* ♥ ♥ ♥

Get the book: Amazon / B & N

Stalk Abbi: Website / Twitter / Facebook

Review: Just for Now (Sea Breeze #4) by Abbi Glines

Hi!

Just for Now (Sea Breeze #4) 
by Abbi Glines

Published: October 30th 2012
by Simon & Schuster
Format: Kindle Edition, 304 pages

Goodreads

The day Preston Drake figured out that wealthy women paid well for a set of tight abs and a pretty face his life turned around.

The run down rat-infested trailer he had shared with his alcoholic mother and three younger siblings was now only a place he visited to pay the bills and stock the pantry with food.

He no longer worried about his family starving or living without electricity. The money he made entertaining rich older women more than covered his family’s needs and his own. He had it all figured out. Except…

There was this girl.

She was as innocent as he was tainted.

Amanda Hardy wished her knees didn’t get weak when Preston walked into a room. She hated the fact her heart raced when he flashed his smile in her direction. He had a different girl in his bed every night. He was the kind of boy a smart girl ran from. So, why was she coming up with ways to get close to him? Even when it was obvious he wanted to keep her at a distance.

Maybe her heart knew something the world didn’t. Maybe Preston Drake was more than just a pretty face.

My thoughts on Breathe (Sea Breeze #1), 

Because of Low (Sea Breeze #2)

and While It Lasts (Sea Breeze #3). 

My thoughts:

I'm keeping these reviews short and sweet, because that's what these books are for me: short and sweet one-sit-reads that always put me in a good mood. I love Abbi Glines' writing and her books always melt my heart and put a smile on my face. It's kind of amazing the amount of emotions her characters and their stories make me feel in such a short time!

Just for Now was one of my most anticipated releases of the season. I love this series and this group we've been following since book #1 and I've been dying to get Preston's entire story since book #2 (or was it book #1? Hmm, I don't know, but I've always been intrigued by him and believed there was a good story right there. And I was right.) He was funny, charming and a real player - but somehow different than Cage. And I was happy when I realized that Amanda was going to be the girl to get under his skin and show us what was behind those walls of his, but, considering what we knew of Amanda and his history, my first thought was 'Uh-oh. This one is going to be tricky'.

Amanda is Marcus' (Preston's best friend we met in book #2) sweet and innocent little sister, which means she's totally off limits for him. Besides, considering his life style, she's way out of his league. But the attraction between them is undeniable so maybe, just maybe, it could work between them? But at what cost?

The guys were my family, but Marcus was my brother. Blood didn’t matter. He’d cared when no one else had known there was something to care about. I had to let this fascination I had with his sister go. 

It's been a while since I read the previous books, but I think I was more emotionally connected with this one and these characters. My heart broke for them even from the beginning, when something meant to happen for a long time didn't go as it was supposed to. I really felt for Amanda, and even though sometimes I just wanted to reach into the book and shake her, to scream at her to be stronger, most of the time I just wanted to hug her, to support her and cheer her on, because if anyone could work things out and be happy with Preston, it was her. Especially when everyone on Earth and their sister kept warning her away from him and trying to get in their way or to control her life. Grrr! But she was stronger than everyone else thought. She was sweet, selfless and caring and warmed up to Preston and his family's life easily.

For the first time in my life, I didn’t feel alone. (Preston)

Willow sighed. “She’ll need room to breathe soon enough, Marcus. You can love her and care about her while you stand back and let her make her own decisions. She isn’t the little girl you took care of all your life. She’s a big girl now. Don’t forget that.” (Did I ever mention that Willow is my favorite heroine in this series? Yup, she still is. )

Amanda always had feelings for Preston and his behavior hurt her many times. Not to mention that she had to keep everything to herself, because she never wanted to ruin Preston's relationship with her brother and she thought Preston would never notice her. Not the way she craved for, anyway. But even when she started acting on those feeling and fighting for the man she loved, things didn't get easier. There were lots of complications, insecurities and hurt feelings on both sides.

Manda was different. She made me feel things. Things I’d prayed I’d never experience, because acting on them would be impossible.

Preston stared at me a moment, and then a small smile touched his lips for the first time today. I was so happy to see that smile. “You’re amazing, and you don’t even know it.”

There was passion, but there was also pain. There was hope, but there was also hopelessness. There was love, but there was also betrayal. There were tears, but there were also smiles and moments of joy. Such a beautiful, emotional story!

Anyway, I love Preston! He's sweet, charming, protective, incredibly hot and has a wicked sense of humor. What else could a girl ask for?:D Yes, he has his secrets and all, but he's a survivor and a fighter and will stop at nothing when it comes to the people he loves and their well being. Opening up to Amanda and believing in their relationship was probably one of the hardest things for him to do. His story was heartbreaking, but I loved the way he and Amanda clicked by the end. And OMG! That chemistry, that passion! Phew, despite their issues and bumps in the road, their relationship was hot and intense! Really, this book was a major swoon-fest! (not suited for a YA audience, btw).

I loved that all the previous couples made an appearance as well, I missed them. :) I just love this group and how close they all are! And I know we're getting back to Cage and Eva for the next book (eep!), but I wouldn't mind it if Jason and Dewayne got their own stories after that either. ;)

I have yet to read a book by Abbi Glines and be disappointed. Every time I finish one of her books, I think the next one can't get any better than that. And then she writes a story like this one and I'm blown away all over again! I'm looking forward to the next one!

Other favorite quotes:

I didn’t want to keep my distance. I might not get to have her again, but I liked being near her. She made me happy. She made the darkness not seem too smothering. “I want to be friends,” I explained, watching her chew her bottom lip nervously.  

“I’ll be good. I promise. I’ll be the best damn friend you’ve ever had.” His voice had lowered into a husky whisper. I shivered from the sexy sound. (...)

“Friends don’t get this close, Preston,” I said, and I started to take a step back when he pulled me tightly against him. “No, Manda, they don’t. But I can’t stop wanting you close. Can we be close friends?” He asked, lowering his head until his warm breath tickled my ear. Closing my eyes tightly, I grabbed his arms to keep myself steady. What was he doing? “I like you close. Real close.” 

“Nothing about this thing we have is a bad thing. I’m not gonna lie about it: I don’t deserve you. I’m sure as hell not good enough for you, but as long as you want me, I’m all yours.” 

He smiled and lowered his head until his lips hovered over mine. “I love you with a scary, insane, wild, amazing love. I always will. No one else could ever make me feel this way.”

*sigh* ♥ ♥ ♥

Get the book: Amazon / B & N

Stalk Abbi: Website / Twitter / Facebook

Review: Undeadly (The Reaper Diaries #1) by Michele Vail

Hi!

Undeadly (The Reaper Diaries #1) 
by Michele Vail

Release date: November 20th 2012
by Harlequin Teen
Format: Paperback, 272 pages

Goodreads: 

The day I turned 16, my boyfriend-to-be died. I brought him back to life. Then things got a little weird...

Molly Bartolucci wants to blend in, date hottie Rick and keep her zombie-raising abilities on the down-low. Then the god Anubis chooses her to become a reaper—and she accidentally undoes the work of another reaper, Rath. Within days, she's shipped off to the Nekyia Academy, an elite boarding school that trains the best necromancers in the world. And her personal reaping tutor? Rath.

Life at Nekyia has its plusses. Molly has her own personal ghoul, for one. Rick follows her there out of the blue, for another...except, there's something a little off about him. When students at the academy start to die and Rath disappears, Molly starts to wonder if anything is as it seems. Only one thing is certain—-Molly's got an undeadly knack for finding trouble....

My thoughts:

Undeadly was a quick, fun and very refreshing read. One that I really needed, after all the intense, emotional, angst-y books I've read lately. The heroine has a young, spunky attitude and a joyful voice that made reading this book a very entertaining experience. Yes, she deals with zombies, reapers, necromancers and death, but her feisty spirit and sarcastic lines make everything flow by at a fast pace and puts a smile on your face.

I haven't read that many zombie books before (I did ready many reaper books, as you know), but the way the author approached this subject and the mythology was very unique and interesting. The story about souls, reapers, necromancers, about how they were made and the powers they had was fascinating.

Molly had a normal life - well, as normal as it could be, in a world where everyone knew about the existence of the supernatural beings living (or not quite) among them and did their best to adapt.

Being a necro doesn’t make anyone really special, though. Everyone has to learn about necromancy, about zombies and SEER machines, and even Ancient Egyptian history (required course, like math and science). But it’s not exactly a big deal these days, not like it was waaaaay back.

She had the usual necromancer-in-training, family and and high school drama to deal with. And then her 16th birthday came along and everything changed. Suddenly, she had much more on her plate than she could take: family secrets revealed, new powers, prophecies, a maybe-boyfriend turned dead - and then brought back to life - who acted weird, a kind-of-dead, hot stalker, a new school to attend.... And more, but you'll have to read the book for yourself to find out about it. :) Scary, but exciting stuff all around!

This reaper stuff was like opening a beautifully wrapped present on my sixteenth birthday and getting a box full of scorpions. 

The first part of the book seemed a bit slow and confusing, but when Molly moved to the necromancer boarding school, things started to get more interesting and captivating! She could barely catch her breath - there was always something going on and she was always caught in the middle. And because she was new at everything, she was kind of clueless and overwhelmed. Even so, she had an impressive way of getting through it all. She's fun, feisty and resourceful and got a few reliable allies on the way. Of course, they couldn't solve her problems for her, but they proved to be very helpful when she needed them the most. And despite everything, she never backed down or hide or whine, not even in the most dire situations, which made it even easier to like her and to cheer her on. It was awesome to follow her on her adventures!

“Thanks, Ren. You’re a good friend.”
“I’m a ghost. You’ve got too much heart, Mol. You don’t turn away no matter how bad it gets.” He brushed the hair out of my face. “Leave the dead and the dying alone.”
“I can’t,” I said. “I’m a reaper.”

And like all that was not enough, she also had to deal with the usual teenager problems: family drama, mean girls, cute boys, being the new girl in school... Speaking of which, there's not that much of romance in the book. But there's potential. ;) I really liked Rath (I mean, hot reaper, bad boy attitude and mysterious appearances? Totally my kind of hero!) and I hope to see more of him in the next books. Molly's new friends were awesome as well and I could see a great bond forming between all of them already. And I'm pretty sure that will come in handy for Molly's next stories - she seems to be in for a big adventure!

All in all, Undeadly was a very enjoyable and interesting book. It was fun, fast-paced and the writing felt natural and flew smoothly. I'll admit thought that it took me a while to get into the story, to understand all the mythology and to get used to Molly's voice. She's very young, full of energy and sometimes immature, and adding to that her necro abilities, it took some time to connect with her and to adapt to the world building. But there's a lot of potential for growth and development for her and the mythology elements are fascinating, so I really recommend this to Young Adult Paranormal lovers who are looking for something fresh and original!

*Review copy provided by the blog tour host and the publisher Harlequin Teen via NetGalley in exchange for my honest opinion. Thank you!

And I have a huge giveaway and the playlist for the book coming up next. Stay tuned!;)

Review: Undeadly (The Reaper Diaries #1) by Michele Vail

Hi!

Undeadly (The Reaper Diaries #1) 
by Michele Vail

Release date: November 20th 2012
by Harlequin Teen
Format: Paperback, 272 pages

Goodreads: 

The day I turned 16, my boyfriend-to-be died. I brought him back to life. Then things got a little weird...

Molly Bartolucci wants to blend in, date hottie Rick and keep her zombie-raising abilities on the down-low. Then the god Anubis chooses her to become a reaper—and she accidentally undoes the work of another reaper, Rath. Within days, she's shipped off to the Nekyia Academy, an elite boarding school that trains the best necromancers in the world. And her personal reaping tutor? Rath.

Life at Nekyia has its plusses. Molly has her own personal ghoul, for one. Rick follows her there out of the blue, for another...except, there's something a little off about him. When students at the academy start to die and Rath disappears, Molly starts to wonder if anything is as it seems. Only one thing is certain—-Molly's got an undeadly knack for finding trouble....

My thoughts:

Undeadly was a quick, fun and very refreshing read. One that I really needed, after all the intense, emotional, angst-y books I've read lately. The heroine has a young, spunky attitude and a joyful voice that made reading this book a very entertaining experience. Yes, she deals with zombies, reapers, necromancers and death, but her feisty spirit and sarcastic lines make everything flow by at a fast pace and puts a smile on your face.

I haven't read that many zombie books before (I did ready many reaper books, as you know), but the way the author approached this subject and the mythology was very unique and interesting. The story about souls, reapers, necromancers, about how they were made and the powers they had was fascinating.

Molly had a normal life - well, as normal as it could be, in a world where everyone knew about the existence of the supernatural beings living (or not quite) among them and did their best to adapt.

Being a necro doesn’t make anyone really special, though. Everyone has to learn about necromancy, about zombies and SEER machines, and even Ancient Egyptian history (required course, like math and science). But it’s not exactly a big deal these days, not like it was waaaaay back.

She had the usual necromancer-in-training, family and and high school drama to deal with. And then her 16th birthday came along and everything changed. Suddenly, she had much more on her plate than she could take: family secrets revealed, new powers, prophecies, a maybe-boyfriend turned dead - and then brought back to life - who acted weird, a kind-of-dead, hot stalker, a new school to attend.... And more, but you'll have to read the book for yourself to find out about it. :) Scary, but exciting stuff all around!

This reaper stuff was like opening a beautifully wrapped present on my sixteenth birthday and getting a box full of scorpions. 

The first part of the book seemed a bit slow and confusing, but when Molly moved to the necromancer boarding school, things started to get more interesting and captivating! She could barely catch her breath - there was always something going on and she was always caught in the middle. And because she was new at everything, she was kind of clueless and overwhelmed. Even so, she had an impressive way of getting through it all. She's fun, feisty and resourceful and got a few reliable allies on the way. Of course, they couldn't solve her problems for her, but they proved to be very helpful when she needed them the most. And despite everything, she never backed down or hide or whine, not even in the most dire situations, which made it even easier to like her and to cheer her on. It was awesome to follow her on her adventures!

“Thanks, Ren. You’re a good friend.”
“I’m a ghost. You’ve got too much heart, Mol. You don’t turn away no matter how bad it gets.” He brushed the hair out of my face. “Leave the dead and the dying alone.”
“I can’t,” I said. “I’m a reaper.”

And like all that was not enough, she also had to deal with the usual teenager problems: family drama, mean girls, cute boys, being the new girl in school... Speaking of which, there's not that much of romance in the book. But there's potential. ;) I really liked Rath (I mean, hot reaper, bad boy attitude and mysterious appearances? Totally my kind of hero!) and I hope to see more of him in the next books. Molly's new friends were awesome as well and I could see a great bond forming between all of them already. And I'm pretty sure that will come in handy for Molly's next stories - she seems to be in for a big adventure!

All in all, Undeadly was a very enjoyable and interesting book. It was fun, fast-paced and the writing felt natural and flew smoothly. I'll admit thought that it took me a while to get into the story, to understand all the mythology and to get used to Molly's voice. She's very young, full of energy and sometimes immature, and adding to that her necro abilities, it took some time to connect with her and to adapt to the world building. But there's a lot of potential for growth and development for her and the mythology elements are fascinating, so I really recommend this to Young Adult Paranormal lovers who are looking for something fresh and original!

*Review copy provided by the blog tour host and the publisher Harlequin Teen via NetGalley in exchange for my honest opinion. Thank you!

And I have a huge giveaway and the playlist for the book coming up next. Stay tuned!;)

Blog Tour: When We Collide by A. L. Jackson - Review & Giveaway

Happy Monday everyone!

When We Collide
by A.L. Jackson

Published: November 2nd 2012
by Sapphire Star Publishing
Format: eBook, Paperback, 216 pages

Goodreads:

From the bestselling author of Pulled and Take This Regret comes a gripping new tale of loss and love.

William has spent six years running from his past and the last eight months trying to rid his mind of the dreams that increasingly haunt his nights. Trapped in a world of false ambitions and feigned affections, William knows he’s reached a breaking point and something’s going to give.

Maggie had lived her entire life without hope until one man showed her what it meant to be loved. He’d been her light in a lifetime of darkness. Six years ago, that darkness stole him away. Without him, she’s surrendered herself to an existence she doesn’t know how to escape.

When the family William left behind is struck by tragedy, he is called back to the one place he’s sworn to never return to again.

In a moment that will change his life forever, William comes face to face with the girl who, with one look, captured his heart. He is unable to ignore the buried desires and the hope for the future they’d once believed they’d have.

Now William is ready to fight to take back what had been stolen from him six years before.

But he never imagined what that fight might cost him.

A.L. Jackson gives you an intimate look into the lives of a family bound by an unseen connection in this new contemporary romance.

My thoughts: 

Wow! I knew from my fellow bloggers and from the snippets and teasers I read while stalking A.L. Jackson in the interwebs that she was an incredibly talented author, but I never imagined that I'd be so touched and captivated by her words! This was such an emotional, beautiful, heart-melting story! And when I think Contemporary Romance (with Thriller and Supernatural twists or not), this is the kind of story that comes to mind. An engrossing story that makes you feel for the characters, sympathize with them, wish them the best and be with them every step of the way on their journey toward happiness! When We Collide was, indeed, mostly a heartbreaking story, but it was also so full of beautiful and uplifting emotions, love and hope for a HEA! It was also very realistic - everything the characters went through could happen to anyone, anytime, and I only wish people would find their way to redemption, forgiveness and healing just like these characters did.

At the beginning of the story, we see Maggie and William years after they broke up, living in different parts of the country and trying to have normal lives. They're not happy, but they do the best they can, given their circumstances. (and yes, two POVs again. I'm addicted to books with in alternative POVs.) 

But then tragedy strikes William's family and he has to come back to his hometown, to deal with his family problems and face his past. And when he runs into Maggie, he realizes not only that his love for her is as strong as ever, but also that there might be something much more powerful tying them together. 

 But William had always made me feel alive, and there was nothing I could do to shield myself from that light now. I felt everything. His anger, my shame, the love for him I’d kept stored up and buried so deep inside—a flicker of his before it had been chased away by his disgust. It all culminated in a searing, scorching burn. 

The worst part of it all was that gnawing in the pit of my stomach. It was the same familiar ache I’d tried to bury and stamp out beneath years of work and faked satisfaction, a need that glowed bright, unearthed and exposed. I loved Maggie now as much as I did the day she walked out of my life.

And this time around, he decides to stay and fight for what he lost, to make up for the mistakes of the past and the time he stayed away from the woman he loves. We get to see who they become, when, why and how they changed throughout their time away from each other and after they reunited, and through flash backs of their past together, we relieve their love story and see the unraveling of the events that led to their heartbreaking separation. 

Cupping her face, I pulled away and stared down at her. Her eyes were all brown misery and love and shame, and the most wistful of smiles hinted on her swollen lips. Timid fingertips traced my face, as if to remember—to memorize—something to take with her when she walked away. Chills followed in their wake, an aching loss across my skin, torment I didn’t think I’d survive. Her touch spoke of it—of giving in and letting go—but her eyes were so sad, I knew she never would. (*flashback)

I have to say that I was pulled into the story right from the start and I read it in one siting. Everything the characters went through broke my heart and I may or may not have shed a few tears, but I couldn't wait for all the heartache to pass and to get to the happy ending everyone deserved. But this wasn't just a love story, it also has mystery, suspense, a few seriously scary moments and many layers; A.L. touched subjects as abuse, controlling relationships, rape, trauma, jealousy, betrayal, family problems and even death, but the main focus were the love, forgiveness, healing, innocence, warmth and strength that, by the end, gave a positive and inspiring feeling to the story. When the epilogue came, I just wanted to jump around the room and cheer for the main characters, to take them home and hug them. :) 

A shiver that rolled through Maggie was palpable even to me. I wound my arms around her and pulled her flush, my palms flat on her stomach. 
Cheek to cheek. 
Skin to skin. 
I burned. 
I ran my nose up her jaw and whispered in her ear, “I don’t know how to stop loving you.”

Like I said, everything was very realistic, so it was easy to connect with the characters and to relate to them. They were flawed, confused, insecure and some of their choices were not that great, but they were totally understandable. They gathered strength, courage and hope as the story progressed and they came out the other side of their drama and troubled past if not completely healed, at least with the faith that things would finally work out for them and their family. I would have liked to see more of their happy times together when they were younger, but we got to see how strong and powerful their love was now.

But all this time, I knew him. I knew the kindness and the goodness. None of what I felt was a result of my past or anything I’d been through in my life. I wasn’t clinging to William as a savior or blinded by the circumstances. Underneath all the scars that lined my body and lined my soul, William saw me. And he loved me as much as I loved him.

Other favorite quotes:
 

Every inch of my body bristled in awareness, filled me with a need that was so much more than just latent desire. What was it about her? Yeah, she was gorgeous, undoubtedly someone who would have turned my head had I passed her on the street. But she gripped me deeper than that. Maybe it was who she was, the mystery surrounding this girl’s life, the need I saw on her face. The innate need I felt to protect her. Yet I’d been captured by her before I even knew who she was. Whatever it was that drew me to her, I knew I wanted it all.

Yeah, I knew she was broken, knew no matter where she ended up in life, her past would always be there to haunt her, knew she had so much to overcome. But I also knew, underneath it all, she was strong. I saw it in her eyes and felt it in her spirit. I knew she was kind and good, knew she was beautiful. And I knew I was never going to stop loving her.

William had been perfect, a gift. He’d changed me, deeply and in every way. When he found me, I was scared and insecure, and while those things still remained, they never looked the same. Every part of me had William written on it, the way I thought and what I saw. What I desired and where my dreams laid. 

The writing style is absolutely stunning! (As you can see in these quotes.) A. L. Jackson has such an amazing way of describing intense feelings and raw emotions, that you can't not be touched by her words! I was completely captivated by this story and I'm looking forward to reading more of her books!

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About the author: 

A.L. Jackson first found a love for writing during her days as a young mother and college student. She filled the journals she carried with short stories and poems used as an emotional outlet for the difficulties and joys she found in day-to-day life.

Years later, she shared a short story she’d been working on with her two closest friends and, with their encouragement, this story became her first full length novel. A.L. now spends her days writing in Southern Arizona where she lives with her husband and three beautiful children. Her favorite pastime is spending time with the ones she loves.

Find A.L.: Publisher Author Site / Twitter / Facebook / Blog

Get the book: Amazon / B & N

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*Review copy provided by the RABT and the author in exchange for my honest opinion. Thank you!

Have a fabulous week!