Hey Guys instead of doing an individual review for each one of the Steampunk Chronicles I read last week, decided to a a group one.

 Title: The Girl In the Steel Corset
 Series: The Stempunk Chronicles
 Author: Kady Cross
 Pages: 473
 Published: 05/24/11
 Acquired: Library
 Goodreads Rating: 3.86
 My Rating: 4.0



Goodreads Synopsis:

In 1897 England, sixteen-year-old Finley Jayne has no one...except the "thing" inside her.When a young lord tries to take advantage of Finley, she fights back. And wins. But no "normal" Victorian girl has a darker side that makes her capable of knocking out a full-grown man with one punch....

Only Griffin King sees the magical darkness inside her that says she's special, says she's one of "them." The orphaned duke takes her in from the gaslit streets against the wishes of his band of misfits: Emily, who has her own special abilities and an unrequited love for Sam, who is part robot; and Jasper, an American cowboy with a shadowy secret.

Griffin's investigating a criminal called The Machinist, the mastermind behind several recent crimes by automatons. Finley thinks she can help--and finally be a part of something, finally fit in.

But The Machinist wants to tear Griff's little company of strays apart, and it isn't long before trust is tested on all sides. At least Finley knows whose side she's on--even if it seems no one believes her.

Title: The Girl in the Clockwork Collar

Series:  The Steampunk Chronicles

Author: Kady Cross

Pages: 416

Published: 05/22/12

Acquired:  Library

Goodreads Rating:  4.07

My Rating:  4.5

Goodreads Synopsis: 

In New York City, 1897, life has never been more thrilling-or dangerous Finley Jayne and her "straynge band of mysfits" have journeyed from London to America to rescue their friend Jasper from the clutches of a devious criminal demanding a trade-the dangerous device Jasper stole from him...for the life of the girl Jasper loves. One false move from Jasper, and the strange clockwork collar around Mei's neck tightens and tightens. From the rough streets of lower Manhattan to elegant Fifth Avenue, the motley crew of teens follows Jasper's elusive trail. And they're about to discover how far they'll go for friendship. More than ever, Finley must rely on powerful English duke Griffin King to balance her dark magic with her good side. Yet Griffin is at war with himself over his secret attraction to Finley...and will risk his life and reputation to save her. Now, to help those she's come to care for so deeply, Finley must infiltrate the criminal gang. Only problem is, she might like the dark side a little too much....

Title: The Girl with the Iron Touch

Series: The Steampunk Chronicles

Author: Kady Cross

Pages: 384

Published: 05/28/13

Acquired: Net Galley: Thank you to Harlequin Teen and Kady Cross

Goodreads Rating: 4.06

My Rating: 4.0

Goodreads Synopsis: 

In 1897 London, something not quite human is about to awaken

When mechanical genius Emily is kidnapped by rogue automatons, Finley Jayne and her fellow misfits fear the worst. What's left of their archenemy, The Machinist, hungers to be resurrected, and Emily must transplant his consciousness into one of his automatons—or forfeit her friends' lives.

With Griffin being mysteriously tormented by the Aether, the young duke's sanity is close to the breaking point. Seeking help, Finley turns to Jack Dandy, but trusting the master criminal is as dangerous as controlling her dark side. When Jack kisses her, Finley must finally confront her true feelings for him...and for Griffin.

Meanwhile, Sam is searching everywhere for Emily, from Whitechapel's desolate alleyways to Mayfair's elegant mansions. He would walk into hell for her, but the choice she must make will test them more than they could imagine.

To save those she cares about, Emily must confront The Machinist's ultimate creation—an automaton more human than machine. And if she's to have any chance at triumphing, she must summon a strength even she doesn't know she has....

My Review: 

There were so many things that I love about this series, but the first thing that comes to mind is the amazing group of stubborn, pig-headed, narcissistic, yet loyal brave and amazing group of characters that make up the series. All of the members that make up this dysfunctional family have unique abilities that set them apart from everyone else. First there is Finley Jayne, who had extraordinary strength and superhuman hearing. Then there is Griffin King, the Duke of Greythorne. He is extremely loyal and takes on the responsibilities of the world on his shoulders. Then there is  Emily who is scientist, doctor, and engineer all rolled up in one.  Lastly there is Sam, who is a man of steel and with a heart of gold, well technically metal! 

This fearsome foursome works together to keep eachother safe and keep the country of England safe from others who want to cause others harm. This series has some amazing adventures, great friendship and even some love triangles.  I definitely recommend this to anyone who enjoys a good Steampunk Story! 

Title: Torn

Series: Miss Chatterley Part III

Author: Logan Belle

Published: 05/27/13

Pages: 80

Acquried: Edelweiss

Goodreads Rating: 3.90

My Rating: 4.0

Goodreads Synopsis: 

Torn between love and sex. By the time Connie decides, it could be too late. 

Surprised by Cliff’s sudden attention, Connie is caught between the life she always wanted and the passion she never knew she needed. Luckily, Connie’s wild, older sister Hillary comes to town to talk some sense into her—don’t throw away your future for a passing fling. But can Connie forgo the ecstasy of Mellors’s touch for a future with Cliff? Will Cliff be too distracted with the IPO to realize what’s at stake? 

My Review: 

We left off in Dirty with another major cliff hanger. Cliff knows that his and Connie's relationship is danger, instead of fixing the problem at hand, he believes the best way to save their relationship is to take it to the next level. Connie is so guilt ridden, that even though she loves Cliff she knows she can't accept his offer. Both Cliff and Connie realize that it is time to start working to repair their relationship. For Cliff the answer is to start spending more time with Connie. And for Connie the answer is dropping Mellor. But unfortunality for Connie, her relationship with Mellor has turned into more than just sex, but a pure out addiction. And just like going on a diet, before she can give up the unhealthy food, she was binge! And binge she does! 

In this episode, we get to know more about some side characters, specially Hillary, Connei's older sister who had came into town after her affair goes bad, and Cliff's partner at the Chattebox, Ivy. Usually in these types of situations the partner was the significant other out of the picture beacuase they want the partner to themselves. But this is not the case for Ivy, yes she wants Connie out the picture and will go throug any lengths to get it done, but she wants Connie gone because she beliees that if she does Cliff will take the compnay public and she will become and instant millionaire. Ivy befriends an unlikely person in her quest to rid of Connie. 

Don't miss the last part, Miss Chatterley Part IV: Spent will be out June 3rd! 

Title: SEAL of Honor

Series: Hornet #1

Author: Tonya Burrows

Pages: 352

Published: 05/28/13

Acquired: Netgalley - Thank you to Entangled Publishing and Tonya Burrows

Goodreads Rating: 4.11

My Rating: 5.0

Good Reads Synopsis: 

It’s a good thing Gabe Bristow lives and breathes the Navy SEAL credo, “the only easy day was yesterday,” because today, his life is unrecognizable. When his prestigious career comes to a crashing halt, he’s left with a bum leg and few prospects for employment that don’t include a desk.

That is, until he’s offered the chance to command a private hostage rescue team and free a wealthy American businessman from Colombian paramilitary rebels. It seems like a good deal—until he meets his new team: a drunk Cajun linguist, a boy-genius CIA threat analyst, an FBI negotiator with mob ties, a cowboy medic, and an EOD expert as volatile as the bombs he defuses. Oh, and who could forget the sexy, frustratingly impulsive Audrey Van Amee? She’s determined to help rescue her brother—or drive Gabe crazy. Whichever comes first.

As the death toll rises, Gabe’s team of delinquents must figure out how to work together long enough to save the day. Or, at least, not get themselves killed. Because Gabe’s finally found something worth living for, and God help him if he can’t bring her brother back alive.

My Review: 

For those of you continously read my reviews here on my blog or on goodreads, you know the one thing I am always craving more is originality! My main complaint most of the time is, that I can guess the ending about a third of the way into a book. 

Last week I was working on a research paper for nursing school when I was approved for this book in Netgalley. I struggled to not give into temptation of a good story, and yes I will shamelessly admit the gorgeous man on the cover! After my paper was over I dove into the book and immediately from the first chapter I was hooked. (And praised my good sense not to start this book before I finished my paper.) This book started with a rich business man in Columbia on a business trip. My first instinct was, here we go another story about an obscenely rich man falling in love, but towards the end of the first chapter I knew I was wrong. And I will honestly say that this book had one of the best first chapters I have ever read. There is no way anyone can put the book down when you get to the end of that chapter. 

When an American business owner is kidnapped in Columbia, an ex Navy Seal by the name of Gabe Bristow is given a job opportunity to put a crew together to go to Columbia and rescue him. Gabe is struggling with an injury that forces him out of the Seals and takes the opportunity to fill the void in his life. At the same time, Audrey, the sister of the American business man also takes of to Columbia to find out what happen to her brother. Haven't lost her parents, she will do everything in her power not to lose her brother. When a trained Seal who has spend his entire life in military school, living his life by the book, meets Audrey a free spirited artist things are bound to clash. But as the saying goes sometimes opposites attract. Will they save her brother in time? Who is responsible for his kidnapping and why? Will Gabe learn to let go of his duty and allow himself to give in to the chemistry he feels to Audrey? You guys have to pick up this book to find out

There were so many things I loved about this book! The amazing adventure was the first thing that caught my interest! This book literally reminded me of an episode of 24, with Gabe being a younger version of Jack Bauer. Another thing I enjoyed about this book was the amazing character development. Each and every character had a unique personality that stood out on the page. Wether they were just a side character who you only read about twice or one of the main characters. You felt like you knew them and they each had their own very distinct personalities. I loved the bond and loyalty of the Hornet Crew. They certainly had their fair share of disagreements, but they put them aside and worked together as a very cohesive unit. Then their is Gabe who is so physically strong, but yet so emotionally weak he needs a woman like Audrey in his life who gives him strength were he is lacking. 

I really enjoyed this book and hope some of you guys pick it up and give it a read!  Now I really need to get myself a finish copy of this book, because it was such a great read and Yes, I do need that cover on my shelf! 

This book comes out tomorrow which would be a perfect read after your Memorial Day celebration! So make sure to check it out.

Hey Guys!! Need to start putting together a TBR for great summer reads? My friends over at The Unofficial Addiction Book Fan Club have 2 new giveaways up! Make sure to head over there and check them out! 

Title: Dirty
Series: Miss Chatterley Part II
Author: Cora Carmack
Published: May 20, 2013
Pages: 80
Acquired: Edelweiss
Goodreads Rating: 3.57
My Rating: 4.0


Goodreads Synopsis: 

Torn between love and sex. By the time Connie decides, it could be too late. 

Consumed by desire, Connie’s body yields to Mellor’s outrageous demands even as her heart yearns for her sweet, steady boyfriend. Connie reaches out to Cliff to save their relationship but he is too distracted exploring a different sort of temptation—the promise of quick and easy money from the shifty Tommy Dukes. Can Connie stop Cliff before he makes an epic mistake? Can she stop herself before she falls too far to ever come back? 

My Thoughts: 

We left off in Hunger with Connie filling the void in her life by giving into temptation. Now she is being torn into two: Her love for Cliff and her desire for Mellor. As each day passes she feels more and more guilt over her actions. She tries to repair her relationsihp to the best of her ability, but no matter how much she tries she isn't able to replace what Mellor is giving her. 

Connie receives two tickets to a Cross Fit tournament and convinces Cliff to go with her. She thought it would be a good way of spending more time with Cliff, but little did she know that Cliff would become so intrigued with Cross Fit and want to start working out with her an Mellor. Now with the tension of sharing work outs with her boyfriend and her biggest temptation, Connie becomes torn into. 

Cliff is not oblivious to what his work schedule is doing to his relationhip with Connie and towards the end of Part II he will take any extreme to try to re-kindle the love that they once had. But is it too late?


FIND OUT WHAT HAPPENS NEXT IN MISS CHATTERLEY PART III: TORN - RELEASED MAY 27, 2013!!

Hey guys! I just got back from attending an authors event with Rachel Hawkins, the author of the Hex Hall Series, and the new stand alone School Spirit! The signing was at my local Barnes and Noble and went with my book signing partner in crime my friend Vivian! Also I has the privilege of meeting Stacee from Too Fond of Books. I noticed that she and I have been going to the same signings for over a year and I was looking forward to saying Hi to her! She also has a great recap of the event so you guys should check out her page!

Rachel was incredibly funny tellings us anecdotes of how she became a writer and her inspiration behind her Hex Hall Series and her new book School Spirit. I recorded a little bit of her story if you guys wanted to listen to her discuss her writing experience. She also did a few Q and A's which Stacee has over on her blog if you guys wanted to take a look. Overall she was incredibly funny, sweet and we had a great event!


Time for the Giveaway Info! 
For all my amazing followers I am giving you the chance to win the complete Hex Hall series SIGNED!

Book 1: Hex Hall
Book 2: Demon Glass
Book 3: Spell Bound

Just follow the Rafflecopter instructions bellow to enter! You have 2 weeks to enter and yes this giveaway is open Internationally!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Title: The Strange Case of Finley Jayne
Series: The Steampunk Chronicles #0.5
Author: Kady Cross
Pages: 98
Published: 05/01/13
Acquired: Library
Goodreads Rating: 3.74
My Rating: 4.0

Goodreads Synopsis:

Finley Jayne knows she's not 'normal'. Normal girls don't lose time, or have something inside them that makes them capable of remarkably violent things. Her behavior has already cost her one job, so when she's offered the lofty position of companion to Phoebe, a debutante recently engaged to Lord Vincent, she accepts, despite having no experience. Lord Vincent is a man of science with his automatons and inventions, but Finley is suspicious of his motives where Phoebe is concerned. She will do anything to protect her new friend, but what she discovers is even more monstrous than anything she could have imagined...

My Thoughts: 

I received a copy of The Girl with the Iron Touch from Harlequin Teen on Netgalley and I knew that I wanted to do a re-read of the 1st book before I dove in to the 2nd and last book. I checked the 1st two books out from the library and was pleasantly suprised that the new paperback of the The Girl in the Steel Corset had this prequel in it. 

Usually I end up being pretty dissapointed in Prequels. How do you usually judge whether a prequel or a novella is any good? Your desire for it to be longer. And that is exactly how I felt about The Strange Case of Finley Jayne. 

This series is mixes Historical Fiction with Steampunk! And once again you through in anything Historical Fiction and I am usually willing to give it a shot.  This novella starts off with the main character Finley Jayne, just being fired from a job as a servant after the physically attacked the Governess for slapping a little boy. Things had starting changing with her over time and she found herself exerted an unnatural amount of physical strength that no female should have. Something is different about her, but she has no idea how she became this way, or what she even is? This may all be connected to her biological father who passed away years ago, whom she doesn't know much about.

Just went Finley starts panicking about where she is going to find new employment without a reference, a new job opportunity comes knocking on her door. She is offered a position as a companion, with high wage, new dresses and evenings out with Dukes and Lords. It seems to good to be true and she accepts the position cautiously.

She meets Lady Phoebe, the girl who is supposed to accompany. She is engaged to Lord Vincent one of the richest men around who in an inventor of different automatons. But he is old enough to be her grandfather. Finley starts to become suspicious when she realizes that Phoebe is almost a doppelganger of Lord Vincent's ex-wife. But just as Finley is becoming suspicious of Lord Vincent, Lord Vincent is staring to realize that there is more to Finley than what the eye sees.

I really enjoyed this little story and am eager to start re-reading the 1st book and getting reacquainted with the characters and the story line. :)

Title: The Sweetest Dark

Series: The Sweetest Dark

Author: Shana Abe

Pages: 334

Published: April 2nd, 2013

Acquired: Netgalley For Review

Good Reads Rating: 3.94

My Rating: 3.5

Goodreads Synopsis: 

For fans of Lauren Kate and Libba Bray, The Sweetest Dark is filled with thrilling romance, exciting adventure, and ancient magic. Shana Abé brilliantly captures the drama of post-Victorian England, while unfolding a passionate love story that defies time.

 

“With every fiber of my being, I yearned to be normal. To glide through my days at Iverson without incident. But I’d have to face the fact that my life was about to unfold in a very, very different way than I’d ever envisioned. Normal would become forever out of reach.” 

 

Lora Jones has always known that she’s different. On the outside, she appears to be an ordinary sixteen-year-old girl. Yet Lora’s been keeping a heartful of secrets: She hears songs that no one else can hear, dreams vividly of smoke and flight, and lives with a mysterious voice inside her that insists she’s far more than what she seems.

 

England, 1915. Raised in an orphanage in a rough corner of London, Lora quickly learns to hide her unique abilities and avoid attention. Then, much to her surprise, she is selected as the new charity student at Iverson, an elite boarding school on England’s southern coast. Iverson’s eerie, gothic castle is like nothing Lora has ever seen. And the two boys she meets there will open her eyes and forever change her destiny.

 

Jesse is the school’s groundskeeper—a beautiful boy who recognizes Lora for who and what she truly is. Armand is a darkly handsome and arrogant aristocrat who harbors a few closely guarded secrets of his own. Both hold the answers to her past. One is the key to her future. And both will aim to win her heart. As danger descends upon Iverson, Lora must harness the powers she’s only just begun to understand, or else lose everything she dearly loves.

 

Filled with lush atmosphere, thrilling romance, and ancient magic, The Sweetest Dark brilliantly captures a rich historical era while unfolding an enchanting love story that defies time.

My Thoughts: 

When I started reading this, I had a feeling that I was going to devour this book. 1) It was historical fiction, taking place in the early 1900s right at the start of WWI. 2) It was  story about a dragons or what they are called in this book Drakons. I figured historical fiction mixed in with an interesting new concept never done before, this was bound to be good! 

But alas if you noticed above I only gave this a 3.5. This just once again proves to me that even with a great idea and good intentions, an authors writing ability is so key to a story. Don't tell me the story, build it, paint it, make it come to life. I found myself bored repeatedly with this book, and couldn't wait to put it down. I am sad to say that I even skimmed the last 30 pages of the book just to get it over with. 

The story is about an orphan girl named Elenor, who not only hears voices, but can also hear the songs of inanimate objects. She has been given an opportunity to go live in a castle and attend a school for privileged girls at the home of Duke. While she is there she starts discovering that her placement in this school might not have been so shocking after all. While she is there she meets one of the servants Jesse who seems to know something about what is going on with Elenor. Then there is the Duke's second son Armand, who also has a secret of his own. Through out the book these three will develop an unexpected friendship which will be tested towards the end. 

One of my biggest problem with this book, was that I felt the author was doing too much at once. I wish that she had build on the idea of Drakons without throwing the historical aspect into it. All in all it did nothing to the story, but make it more difficult to follow. However, I must give the author credit for coming up with such an original idea. Another thing about this book that i didn't like, was that nothing was really explained about Drakon's or Jesse's abilities. It was just here is what they are and BAMN there they went. I did also receive a copy of the sequel to this book. And to be fair to the author, I do plan on giving it a try later on. I really hope that the writing improves and that I am able to enjoy the story more than I did the first one. 

                                      

I just saw this online and I thought it was so interesting that I thought I'd share it with all you guys. As an aspiring writer I was so intrigued and awed by this outline. I am not one of those writers that uses outlines. My characters just tell me where they want to go and I let them. 

Right now they are always nagging me about spending more time with them but unfortunately thanks to school, I don't spend as much time with them as I should. But hopefully one day soon. 

It's amazing how things like this pretty messy outline was what it took to make one of the best selling series in our lifetimes and what made the 1st Billionaire author! Go J.K Rowlng! YOU ROCK! 

Hey there my amazing followers!

For those of your in the states, I hope you had an amazing Mother's Day weekend! I had a terrific weekend off. This Thursday I will be attending another great signing event

with none other than Rachel Hawkins! And you know what that means. When I go to a signing that means you get a Giveaway!!

In the mean time if you are looking for a giveaway to enter, I have 2 for you. My friends over at The Unofficial Addiction Book Fan Club, have two giveaway up which are open INTERNATIONALLY! So run don't walk, or just click on the link to go enter!