Review: Winners Curse (The Winner's Trilogy #1) by Marie Rutkoski

Title: Winners Curse (The Winner’s Trilogy #1)
Author: Marie Rutkoski
Publication: March 4, 2014 by Farrar Straus Giroux
Reviewed by: Vanessa
Rating: 5 stars
Reason for reviewing: Pleasure

As a general’s daughter in a vast empire that revels in war and enslaves those it conquers, seventeen-year-old Kestrel has two choices: she can join the military or get married. But Kestrel has other intentions.
One day, she is startled to find a kindred spirit in a young slave up for auction. Arin’s eyes seem to defy everything and everyone. Following her instinct, Kestrel buys him—with unexpected consequences. It’s not long before she has to hide her growing love for Arin.
But he, too, has a secret, and Kestrel quickly learns that the price she paid for a fellow human is much higher than she ever could have imagined.
Set in a richly imagined new world, The Winner’s Curse by Marie Rutkoski is a story of deadly games where everything is at stake, and the gamble is whether you will keep your head or lose your heart.

Goodreads | Amazon

Short and Quick: Kestrel is an intelligent strong-willed girl who doesn’t like her options in life and is determined to try to find a way to lead the kind of life she’s dreamt of. Little did she know she’d fall in love with a slave with secrets and a mission of his own.

Favorite Quote: “He lifted her up onto the table so that her face was level with his, and as they kissed it seemed that words were hiding in the air around them, that they were invisible creatures that feathered against her and Arin, then nudged, and buzzed, and tugged.
Speak, they said.
Speak, the kiss answered.”

My Thoughts: I love Kestrel’s character. She comes from wealth and is the daughter of a popular General, but she doesn’t let that change who she is deep down. She is pensive and strong-willed. She is unhappy with her life because she is realizing that her position has boundaries and certain expectations that she does not want to give in to. I love her courageous spirit as well. Especially when she is in a tough predicament towards the end of the book. Her spirit and tenacity makes her a wonderful heroine to read.

Arin……oh Arin. Why oh why must you be so intriguing?! Arin is a quiet guy who does what he’s told by his masters but who secretly has a plan of his own. What could it be? I was definitely intrigued by this character because although he’s quiet and defiant at first you just know he’s going to change people’s lives (in more ways than one).

The supporting characters were great too. I absolutely loved Jess (Kestrel’s best friend) and Ronan, Jess’ brother. Jess is so sweet natured and brings humor and happiness to Kestrel’s life. She is the sister Kestrel never had. Ronan is a flirt with a great heart who, if Arin hadn’t been in the picture, I would have wanted for Kestrel.

Although I’m used to fast-paced books (a la Lunar Chronicles) this book has a slower pace which goes perfect with the mood and serious theme of the book. The world building is wonderful and thankfully not overwhelming. Although it’s a slower pace, it’s definitely not boring! There are twists you really don’t see coming and there are serious scenes that I would not have expected from this book.
A few more of my favorite quotes: • “She saw, yet again, that her friend's compliments were just bits of art and artifice. They were paper swans, cunningly folded so that they could float on the air for a few moments. Nothing more.”
• “Survival isn't wrong. You can sell your honor in small ways, so long as you guard yourself. You can pour a glass of wine like it's meant to be poured, and watch a man drink, and plot your revenge.”
• “My soul is yours,” he said. “You know that it is.”

My reaction to the book in gifs
Beginning:

Middle:

 

then….

End:

Review: Cress (Lunar Chronicles #3) by Marissa Meyer

Title: Cress (Lunar Chronicles #3) by Marissa Meyer
Author: Marissa Meyer
Publication: February 4, 2014 by Feiwel and Friends
Reviewed by: Vanessa
Rating: 5 stars
Reason for reviewing: Pleasure

In this third book in the Lunar Chronicles, Cinder and Captain Thorne are fugitives on the run, now with Scarlet and Wolf in tow. Together, they’re plotting to overthrow Queen Levana and her army.
Their best hope lies with Cress, a girl imprisoned on a satellite since childhood who's only ever had her netscreens as company. All that screen time has made Cress an excellent hacker. Unfortunately, she’s just received orders from Levana to track down Cinder and her handsome accomplice.
When a daring rescue of Cress goes awry, the group is separated. Cress finally has her freedom, but it comes at a high price. Meanwhile, Queen Levana will let nothing prevent her marriage to Emperor Kai. Cress, Scarlet, and Cinder may not have signed up to save the world, but they may be the only hope the world has.

Goodreads | Amazon

Short and Quick: Holy shit balls. Yup. HOLY. SHIT. BALLS. This book has battles in space, in the dessert, on Earth…. everywhere! There’s romance, there’s humor, there’s adventure, and yes…. there’s heartbreak. This book does not disappoint!

Favorite Quote: “He froze, becoming stone still. As the hover climbed the hill to the palace, his shoulders sank, and he returned his gaze to the window. "She's my alpha," he murmured, with a haunting sadness in his voice.
Alpha.
Cress leaned forward, propping her elbows on her knees, "Like the star?"
"What star?"
She stiffened, instantly embarrassed, and scooted back from him again. "Oh. Um. In a constellation, the brightest star is called the alpha. I thought maybe you meant that she's...like...your brightest star." Looking away, she knotted her hands in her lap, aware that she was blushing furiously now and this beast of a man was about to realize what an over-romantic sap she was.
But instead of sneering or laughing, Wolf sighed, "Yes," he said, his gaze climbing up to the full moon that had emerged in the blue evening sky. "Exactly like that.”

My Thoughts: Where do I even begin?! Oh the feels!!! I thought I loved Cinder (the book) but man oh man did this book blow it out of the water! I feel like I can’t put my review into words…. so much happened… so much was brought to light…. so many obstacles were put in the characters paths yet they prevailed! (or have they…)

We begin the book with Cress, a shy and lonely Lunar who was the one that helped Cinder in the first book (she’s the one who reached out to Cinder and told her about Queen Levana’s evil plan). She is incredibly smart but emotionally immature and naïve because of her seclusion (those traits aren’t annoying on her though!). Ahhhh, I don’t want to give too much away but let’s just say she has a budding romance with a certain someone that I just hope realizes her worth before it’s too late!
Cinder’s storyline gets even more intense. She has an inner conflict regarding her Lunar powers and struggles with not wanting to use them but being put in situations where she has no choice but to use them. Her main goal in the story is trying to stop Queen Levana from marrying Emperor Kai but boy is it hard to do with all those darn obstacles getting in the way!
Scarlet and Wolf are just adorbs. Again, there’s heartbreak with them but I hope it gets resolved in the next book! It simply must! *stomps foot*

Captain Thorne…. oh Captain Thorne ♥. I LOVE his humor! His character really evolves in this book. You get to see his strength (both mentally and physically). I love how matter of fact he is and how he doesn’t let life get him down. Even when something seriously bad happens to him (sorry can’t say what….don’t want to spoil it!).
Kai on the other hand…. has annoyed me quite a bit throughout all these books. There are parts of him that I like… but… I want to shake him and tell him to grow some balls! I know he has a tough job but damn…

Overall I’d have to say this is my favorite book of the series! They just keep getting better and better. I can’t wait for the next installment, Winter, coming later this year. There’s also an ‘in between’ book/novella called Fairest (Lunar Chronicles #3.5) that is coming out this month and guess who it’s about…. Queen Levana! Woot woot!

Some more of my favorite quotes:
• “Captain?"
"Yeah?"
"Do you think it was destiny that brought us together?"
He squinted and, after a thoughtful moment, shook his head. "No. I'm pretty sure it was Cinder.”
• “I promise, I will not let you die without being kissed.”
• “Maybe there isn’t such a thing as fate. Maybe it’s just the opportunities we’re given, and what we do with them. I’m beginning to think that maybe great, epic romances don’t just happen. We have to make them ourselves.”
• “But you are crazy.”
“I know.” She lifted a small box from the basket. “Do you know how I know?”
Scarlet didn't answer.
“Because the palace walls have been bleeding for years, and no one else sees it.” She shrugged, as if this were a perfectly normal thing to say. “No one believes me, but in some corridors, the blood has gotten so thick there's nowhere safe to step. When I have to pass through those places, I leave a trail of bloody footprints for the rest of the day, and then I worry that the queen's soldiers will follow the scent and eat me up while I'm sleeping. Some nights I don't sleep very well.” Her voice dropped to a haunted whisper, her eyes taking on a brittle luminescence. “But if the blood was real, the servants would clean it up. Don't you think?”

My reaction in gifs:
Beginning:
(Because I couldn’t wait for this book! And then I started it and so much happened! And then so many feels!)

Middle:

End:
There’s a particular scene in the book that gets me giddy and yelling ‘Ohhhh damn!’ for the next book. The last quote above is part of that scene ;)

Review: Scarlet (Lunar Chronicles #2) by Marissa Meyer

Title: Scarlet (Lunar Chronicles #2)
Author: Marissa Meyer
Publication: February 5th, 2013 by Feiwel and friends
Reviewed by: Vanessa
Rating: 5 Stars
Reason for reviewing: Pleasure

Cinder, the cyborg mechanic, returns in the second thrilling installment of the bestselling Lunar Chronicles. She's trying to break out of prison--even though if she succeeds, she'll be the Commonwealth's most wanted fugitive. Halfway around the world, Scarlet Benoit's grandmother is missing. It turns out there are many things Scarlet doesn't know about her grandmother or the grave danger she has lived in her whole life. When Scarlet encounters Wolf, a street fighter who may have information as to her grandmother's whereabouts, she is loath to trust this stranger, but is inexplicably drawn to him, and he to her. As Scarlet and Wolf unravel one mystery, they encounter another when they meet Cinder. Now, all of them must stay one step ahead of the vicious Lunar Queen Levana, who will do anything for the handsome Prince Kai to become her husband, her king, her prisoner.

Goodreads | Amazon

Short and Quick: A secretive moody handsome guy named Wolf + a feisty stubborn girl named Scarlet who is searching for her grandmother who may or may not have been taken by Wolf sounds like (and is!) a definite win.

Favorite Quote: “I knew they would kill me when they found out, but…” He struggled for words, releasing a sharp breath. “I think I realized that I would rather die because I betrayed them, than live because I betrayed you.” --- *Sigh* <Insert dreamy eyes here> --- Want to know who said it? Nope. Can’t tell you. You’ll just have to read the book. :P

My thoughts: Scarlet is the second installment in Marissa Meyer’s Lunar Chronicle Series and while normally in a series we’d stay following the initial heroine, this book introduces a new one, Scarlet, and a new leading man, Wolf. I was reluctant to read it at first, which is why it’s taken me over a year to pick it up. I got so attached to Cinder (the heroine from the first book) that I was afraid this was going to be a big ol’ let down. I was also afraid Cinder wouldn’t play a role in this book. Boy was I wrong!! What the hell was I thinking!? I should have had more faith in Marissa Meyer. She didn’t let me down the first time with Cinder so why would she let me down now? Yeah, I’m a dork.

Anyhoo! In this book, we get to see different character’s points of view, which normally frustrates me because I hate ‘switching gears’ so many times during a book, however, I thoroughly enjoyed reading everyone’s point of view! Even from the new characters like Wolf and Captain Thorne (who is hilariously vain by the way). Captain Thorne had me smiling and rolling my eyes a lot!

I personally fell in love with Scarlet. She is feisty, strong willed, and has a great heart. Although she may have been a bit gullible when it came to Wolf, she really had no choice. She needed him in order to find her grandmother who was taken from her home in the beginning of the book. They both go on a hell of an adventure together and nearly die a few times, which of course, makes for great reading!

Wolf is an incredible character. He is the epitome of dark and mysterious. His constant inner struggles between his principles, his heart and certain things that haunt him (trying not to spoil it for you guys) make this character a very interesting addition to this storyline. You don’t know whether to trust him, love him, hate him, or punch him! But, Marissa Meyer wrote this character in such a way that you root for him and hope he isn’t who you think he is. I hate to say this, but I’m glad she added a strong leading male character in this book. Poor Kai is such a puss in the first two books. I hope he grows some balls in the next installment. I digress…..

As I said before, Cinder definitely plays a role in this book and we get to see all the crap she has to go through (quite literally at some point… *gag*) after being thrown in prison. We get to learn more about her past and see how she came to be a cyborg. We also learn about certain key players that helped her leave Luna and we also get to see developments in her Lunar ‘tricks’.

All in all the story was great! There are twists you definitely don’t see coming, which I loved of course. This book is definitely a page turner and was so damn good that I‘m just happy I had Cress in my possession when I finished it so I can jump right into the third book!

Other favorite quotes:
• “A relieved grin filled up Thorne’s face. “We’re having another moment, aren’t we?”
“If by a moment, you mean me not wanting to strangle you for the first time since we met, then I guess we are.”  --- hehe! Oh Thorne! I freakin’ love this character!

• “We met less than a week ago and in that time I've done nothing but lie and cheat and betray you. I know. But if you give me a chance...all I want is to protect you. To be near you. For as long as I'm able.”

• “When she had gone, Thorne let out a low whistle. “I know, I know. She seems a little”—crossing his eyes, he swirled both fingers around his ears—“but it’s really part of her charm, once you get to know her.”

And of course, because I ♥ gifs, my reaction to this book in gifs…. because, why not? ;)

Beginning:
Because I was scared it wouldn’t be as good as Cinder

Middle:
Because it was damn good and I loved the characters and I didn’t want them to get hurt! And I didn’t want a certain character to turn out to be a dick.

End: Ahhh!! Can’t wait for Cress!!!

Review: Starling (Secrets of The Eternal Rose #3)

Title: Starling (Secrets of The Eternal Rose #3)
Author: Fiona Paul
Publication: March 20, 2014 by Philomel
Reviewed by: Isalys
Rating:  5 Stars
Reason for Reviewing:  ARC provided in exchange for an honest review.

The dark, seductive conclusion to the thrilling Secrets of the Eternal Rose trilogy!

In the final book in the trilogy, Cass and Luca are back in Venice trying to find the Book of the Eternal Rose to clear Luca's name and keep them both out of prison. But the hunters become the hunted when the Order of the Eternal Rose figures out their plan. Filled with twists and turns, danger and torrid romances, this novel brings the Secrets of the Eternal Rose novels to a thrilling, heart-pounding, sexy conclusion.

Starling is the exciting conclusion in the Secrets of The Eternal Rose trilogy by Fiona Paul.  In this series, we are transported to Renaissance Venice where we follow our young heroine Cassandra (known as Cass) as she tries to understand and fight her feelings for Falco and save her fiancé Luca from the gallows, all the while trying to take down the nefarious Order of The Eternal Rose and those behind it.

WARNING: This is a spoiler free review for those who have read Venom and Belladonna. However, if you have not yet read the first two books then proceed with caution.

In Venom, we meet the key players and the stage is set for this daring trilogy filled with mystery, romance, betrayal, and even cults posed as monsters.  In Belladonna, we meet new characters including the ring leader of Order of The Eternal Rose and begin to understand what they are truly up to and who is behind their evil schemes.  Starling picks up right where Belladonna left off, when Cass is forced to leave Falco behind in order to get to Luca in time to save him and take down The Order before they can do any more harm.

I loved Cass' growth over the course of this series.  When we first meet her, she's a sheltered, pampered young noblewoman with no idea of the sins that lurk in her hometown of Venice.  It is a horrifying discovery and a chance encounter with a peasant artist (Falco) that turn her life upside down.  By the time we get to Starling, Cass is no longer that sheltered girl.  Instead, she's transformed into an incredibly independent, brave, and determined woman.  She also knows that she cannot love two men and she needs to make a decision.  Love isn't easy to figure out and she understands that her time with Falco is life-changing and precious, yet she is starting to see Luca through different eyes.  Falco is wild, passionate, and volatile.  He is a whirlwind!  Luca is the antithesis of Falco.  He's well-mannered and civilized, he's strong and steady and loving.  Falco and Luca are so very different and they each spoke to a different part of her heart.

By the conclusion of Starling, I was very pleased with the way the love triangle was handled.  Cass made the decision that truly was best for her (and for him) knowing that her time with the other would never be forgotten. It ended quite beautifully!

The world building is one of my favorite qualities about this series. Fiona Paul did an incredible job taking us to a place and time that is romantic, mysterious, haunting, and sometimes terrifying.  Daytime Venice is colorful and bustling, full of interesting and diverse characters.  Nighttime Venice is dark and dangerous, full of shady and dishonest characters. I love the way she set the scene with her descriptions of the character's clothing and their activities. I was very impressed with her level of research to ensure that this story is told as accurately as possible.

While the love triangle and Cass' relationships are a big part of the story, ultimately, they are not what this tale is about.  Venom has no shortage of adventure, but it really only hints to the Order of The Eternal Rose.  It isn't until books 2 and 3 that we begin to understand how big of a role this group plays. In Starling, Cass' primary objective is to clear Luca's name and find the book that will incriminate the real villains as evil, murderous heretics.  We have to consider the relevance and power of the Catholic church in this time and I thought that Fiona did a fantastic job of blending religion with politics, science, and sociology.  Fear not for there is no shortage of adventure and conflict, though.  Cass dares to do what most others wouldn't even consider, but at a price.  She lands herself in impossible situations and still manages to find it within herself to conquer her fear.

Overall, this is my favorite of the three books and a perfect ending to the series.  I highly recommend these books, especially if you're a fan of historical fiction and mystery/drama.

 WHERE YOU CAN PURCHASE

GIVEAWAY

2 Winners will receive a Copy of Starling by Fiona Paul.
1 Winner will receive a signed Copy of the entire trilogy (PB Venom and Belladonna and hardcover STARLING).
Must be 13+ to Enter
US Giveaway 

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Review: Lady Thief (Scarlet #2)

Title: Lady Thief (Scarlet #2)
Author:  A.C. Gaughen
Publication: February 11, 2014 by Walker Childrens
Reviewed by: Taryn
Rating: 5 stars
Reason for Reviewing: Ebook provided in exchange for an honest review.

Scarlet’s true identity has been revealed, but her future is uncertain. Her forced marriage to Lord Gisbourne threatens Robin and Scarlet’s love, and as the royal court descends upon Nottingham for the appointment of a new Sheriff, the people of Nottingham hope that Prince John will appoint their beloved Robin Hood. But Prince John has different plans for Nottingham that revolve around a fateful secret from Scarlet’s past even she isn’t yet aware of. Forced to participate at court alongside her ruthless husband, Scarlet must bide her time and act the part of a noblewoman—a worthy sacrifice if it means helping Robin’s cause and a chance at a future with the man she loves. With a fresh line of intrigue and as much passion as ever, the next chapter in Scarlet’s tale will have readers talking once again.

Lady Thief is the second book in a trilogy that is quickly becoming one of my favorite series. Scarlet was an unputdownable read that I raced through in just one day (although I’m sure I’ll go back and reread it again more slowly to savor it!). Lady Thief picks up soon after the events of Scarlet. Scarlet’s true identity has been revealed and she has been forced to marry Gisbourne. Her husband is returning to Nottinghamshire, though no one knows why since there is no sheriff to hire him as a thief taker. They soon find out that when he married Scarlet, he assumed her father’s land and title (Lord Leaford), and the contract also gave him the right to petition the prince for the sheriff position. He makes Scarlet a deal--if she agrees to live with him while the prince is there and try to dress, speak, and act like a lady, he’ll grant her an annulment.

Considering that the only reason she married him was to save Robin Hood’s life, Scarlet decides to comply with Gisbourne’s wishes. But she can’t help but wonder, What’s the catch? Can she really trust that he will be true to his word? And will Gisbourne be named sheriff, or will the people wishes to see Robin Hood made sheriff come true?

Wow, what an intense and emotional read! My heart just ached for Scarlet and Rob and all the suffering they had to endure. The love and longing between the two of them felt so real and it almost took my breath away. And those kissing scenes! Let’s just say I had to fan myself a little while reading. I never thought I’d find myself swooning over Robin Hood, but I stand corrected.

I really admired Scarlet as a heroine. She was stubborn and flawed, but she was also incredibly strong, brave, and devoted to those she loved. When Gisbourne abused her both physically and emotionally, she stood up for herself time and time again like a true fighter.

So often I am disappointed in sequels or second books in trilogies, but I am happy to say that I loved Lady Thief even more than the first book. I am very much looking forward to the next book in the series (which is as yet untitled). Give this series a try if you like action, adventure, and swoonworthy romance.

Blog Tour: Soul Resurrected by Keri Lake

Title: SOUL RESURRECTED (Sons of Wrath, #2)
Author: Keri Lake
Published: October 31, 2013
Genre: Adult Paranormal Romance/Dark Urban Fantasy
ISBN: 978-0-9848517-5-1

As Wrath’s fiercest son, Logan carries the scars of fifty years spent in the most dreaded prison of the underworld, for a sin he’d kill to keep secret. Enduring decades of gruesome torture has left Logan feared by and detached from others, until a female Alexi’s blood resurrects his soul from death and, with it, the pleasures he’s been denied for so long.

Plagued by shame of her own, Calla is drawn to the ruthle|ss demon, Logan, whose insatiable craving for her touch rouses buried passions and, for once, leaves her feeling desired.

Adark and dangerous evil has been reawakened, however, and when Calla is drawn too close to its breeding grounds, Logan vows to summon the violence of Wrath in order to keep her safe. First, though, Calla must save him from a past riddled with deceit and corruption … but only if she can accept the chilling consequences of unearthing his vilest skeleton.

In this story, we follow Logan and Calla as they battle new and dangerous villains as well as their attractions to each other.

Logan is, seemingly, the most damaged of all the brothers.  The lack of love and abuse he received as a child have turned him into an absolute wild card.  Angry, blood thirsty, and unpredictable, he is the one to fear.  In Soul Avenged, something happened to Logan that left him bonded to Calla.   A former Alexi like Ayden, Calla soon realizes that she was nothing more than a pawn in a series of sick games.  Soul Resurrected picks up right where book one left off, at the moment that their "bond" was created. Ayden, Kane, and the Sons of Wrath have nearly eliminated any threats posed by the Alexi.  What they don't realize is that there is a new, big, bad shit-storm brewing and this one is going to involve all the brothers as well as Calla. 

I'm going to go about writing this review a little differently than I normally would because there is so much to this book, this series.

The Characters

Both walking contradictions, Logan and Calla were fascinating!  Logan, on the outside was cold and brutal, but had a soft, sweet, gooey center.  (Okay, that sounds a bit gross but you get were I'm going.)  He built a wall around himself and yet Calla was able to break down that wall to get to the heart of his pain and see him for who he really is, which was something not even his brothers managed to do. Calla was quite the reverse.  Blonde and blue-eyed, she looked more like a doll than a fighter.  Logan often teased her for being such a girl and yet Calla was so much tougher and stronger than anyone realized.  Just because she didn't like getting her hands dirty didn't mean she wouldn't.

Beyond these two, there are so many other characters that are important to the story.  All the brothers, including Ferno and Maddox (Mad Dog) who were introduced in this book play critical roles in the overall plot.  Each one is captivating in their own right and I can't wait to get to know each of them better.  In addition, we are also introduced to a pack of good lycans, vampire-like creatures, and even bad angels. You never quite know who to trust.

World-Building and Plot

I was already impressed with Keri's world-building in book one, but she went above and beyond in this book.  We were previously acquainted with the seedier side of Detroit, but now she added new layers by allowing her readers to visit the darkest corners and realms where demons hail and The Fallen rule.  You are equally drawn and repulsed by these places and the monsters that dwell there.

As for the plot, I don't want to reveal too much and spoil anything but trust me when I say "it ain't pretty".  There's more than one villain, each with a different agenda, so you're not sure who to fear most but fear them all you must.  Each brother has to face his own problems, but Keri did an amazing job of setting up our next installment and giving us hints about who the next players will be.

The Writing

The writing was interesting, dynamic, compelling, and virtually flawless.  With tons of lust, action,  and multiple POVs, we take this journey right along side with Logan and Calla, let Gavin steer for a bit, and even let a good-guy-turned-douche take a turn behind the wheel.  With a story as complex as this one is, it almost needs to be told from so many perspectives so that you can really appreciate all the angles.

Overall 

What I am really loving about these books is that Keri Lake has managed to successfully combine Urban Fantasy and Paranormal Romance.  We get the dark, gritty, fast-paced action and intricate plot of UF and combined it with a heart-wrenching, yet smoldering romance.  HOTNESS!!

The first half of the book was a little slower on the uptake because we really focus more on Logan and Calla.  However, by the second half, Keri guns it and I found myself completely engrossed (and basically glued to my ereader).

With a strong finish that will leave you breathless, Soul Resurrected was an incredible follow up to Soul Avenged (book 1 in Sons of Wrath) and I am now even more excited for book 3 (particularly because it will focus on my favorite brother, Gavin).

And just in case my stellar and gushing review didn't sway you, here is a gif that Keri Lake is using as inspiration for Gavin in book 3.  Uh yeah, you're welcome ;) *le sigh*

And now for a little fun!

Throughout the tour, participating blogs will be posting a question for readers to hunt down on Keri Lake’s website. Questions can be found throughout the site: book pages, snippets, blog posts and glossary. Most questions will be related to the Sons of Wrath series. A few bloggers will have added bonus questions taken directly from Soul Avenged. You can visit Keri Lake’s Scavenger Hunt page by clicking on the button above. Record your answers on the Answer Sheet. At the end of the tour, you’ll be able to submit your responses via Google Doc right on the Scavenger Hunt page. The individual with the MOST correct responses will win a MYSTERY PRIZE, valued at $125. 

Here are your questions:

Which Wrath brother has visions of future events? 

BONUS: What kind of supe is Sabelle in Soul Avenged?

LASTLY...THE GIVEAWAY!

1st Prize:
1-$30 Amazon Gift card
1-Signed Paperback Soul Resurrected (Sons of Wrath, #2)
1-Limited Edition Print signed by Julian Christian & Keri Lake
1-Property of Logan T-Shirt
1-Soul Resurrected Tote Bag
1-Soul Resurrected Notebook & Pen set
1-Sons of Wrath Wine Glass Charm set
1-Soul Resurrected Book Mark
1-Soul Resurrected Coffee Mug

2nd Prize:
1-$20 Amazon Gift Card
1-Signed Paperback Soul Resurrected (Sons of Wrath, #2)
1-Soul Resurrected Tote
1-Soul Resurrected Notebook & Pen set
1-Soul Resurrected Purse Clip
1-Sons of Wrath Wine Glass Charm set

For those participating in the Scavenger Hunt:
1-MYSTERY PRIZE (valued at $125)

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Review: Soul Avenged by Keri Lake

Title: Soul Avenged (Sons of Wrath #1)
Author: Keri Lake
Publication:January 16, 2013 by Keri Lake
Reviewed by:Isalys
Reason for Reading: Ebook provided by author in exchange for an honest review.

Passion is blind in vengeance and love ...

Ayden’s suburban home was invaded by a pack of Lycans.
The brutal attack is the only memory she carries of her former life.
Now, one motive burns in her soul:

KILL THEM ALL.

The Sons of Wrath—a brood of vengeance-dealing warrior demons—band with Ayden to hunt the Lycans on Detroit’s most deadly feeding grounds. Kane Walker should’ve been her easiest kill.

Unfortunately, the newly bitten Lycan has something she wants—clues that may finally lay her past to rest. To reach them, she must be willing to submit to the sensual pleasures awakened by his touch.

Time is running out.

In seven days, Kane will become what Ayden despises most. She can halt his transformation but the antidote requires the ultimate sacrifice. As the beast takes hold, Kane becomes more of a threat.

Ayden must choose between her lust for revenge, or surrender to her enemy and discover a horrible truth.

Sons of Wrath
Never gamble with vengeance.

Ayden is an Alexi soldier.  A member of a fierce group of warriors who hunt and destroy Lycans.  A once normal girl, she is now a fighter with no memory of her normal, happy life.  All she knows is that a Lycan killed her family and left her for dead.  Her memories have been replaced with an insatiable appetite for vengeance!

While being an Alexi soldier has taught her everything she knows, it's interfering with her goal of finding and killing the Lycan responsible for the attack on her family.  To accomplish this, she extricates herself from the Alexi and hires the Sons of Wrath.  The Sons of Wrath are a band of demonic brothers who descend from the demon Wrath.  They will aid and protect Ayden on her mission.

On a hunt one evening, Ayden encounters Kane, a recently bitten man who will soon become a new Lycan.  As she attempts to rid the world of one more man-eating monster, she is awashed in memories that she cannot place.  She, uncharacteristically, decides to spare him in the hopes that he might be the key to the answers she seeks.  She only has seven days.  Seven days before he becomes the enemy and will no longer be of use to her.

The world that Keri Lake has created is the perfect backdrop for Ayden's character.  Set in Detroit, this dark, edgy, gritty world is full of things that go bump in the night and is not for the feint of heart.  Ayden is a fearless, tough as nails killing machine.  She feels and fears nothing.  Yet somehow, her interactions with Kane begin to expose the raw nerves that she thought she no longer had.  There is so much more in her - more pain, more fear, more potential for goodness than even she realized.  Snarky, brave, fun, and flirty Kane is an all around good guy and this time, it's the hero who helps the tortured heroine.  Not quite the alpha that the brothers are, he brings his own sex appeal to the story that Ayden cannot deny.  The chemistry between them is electric.  Their interactions alternate between warm and tender to raw and passionate.

"Gavin, Logan, Calix. Was there a sale on trendy names when they were born, or something?"

It's not just about Ayden and Kane, though.  We can't forget The Sons!  We meet five of the seven insanely hot and dynamic brothers who add so much to the story: Gavin, Logan, Calix, and twins Zeke & Zayne.  Each one different from the next, they add layers of humor, power, loyalty, and even compassion. I loved Ayden's relationship with each of them.  They were quick to exasperate her, make her laugh, and have her back when she needed it; as if they were her brothers too!

“Calix shook his head. “Don’t mind him. Logan is what happens when kids don’t get hugged enough.”  

Soul Avenged is the stuff that great Urban Fantasies are made of.  A kick-ass heroine, a brave hero, sexy and funny alpha males, action, romance, and suspense mixed with just a dash of sci-fi.  If you are a fan of Underworld, then you will be a fan of Soul Avenged by Keri Lake.

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Review: Never Seduce A Scot by Maya Banks

Title: Never Seduce A Scot (The Montgomerys and Armstrongs #1)
Author: Maya Banks
Expected publication: September 25, 2012 by Ballantine Books
Reviewed by: Isalys
Reason for Reading: I purchased this book because I was in the mood for some romance ;)

Eveline Armstrong is fiercely loved and protected by her powerful clan, but outsiders consider her “touched.” Beautiful, fey, with a level, intent gaze, she doesn’t speak. No one, not even her family, knows that she cannot hear. Content with her life of seclusion, Eveline has taught herself to read lips and allows the outside world to view her as daft. But when an arranged marriage into a rival clan makes Graeme Montgomery her husband, Eveline accepts her duty—unprepared for the delights to come. Graeme is a rugged warrior with a voice so deep and powerful that his new bride can hear it, and hands and kisses so tender and skilled that he stirs her deepest passions.

Graeme is intrigued by the mysterious Eveline, whose silent lips are ripe with temptation and whose bright, intelligent eyes can see into his soul. As intimacy deepens, he learns her secret. But when clan rivalries and dark deeds threaten the wife he has only begun to cherish, the Scottish warrior will move heaven and earth to save the woman who has awakened his heart to the beautiful song of a rare and magical love.

Strolling through the aisles of Barnes & Noble, I had walked by these books dozens of times but my unfamiliarity with Maya Banks' work made me drag my feet on buying one.  It was at the recommendation of Amanda from On A Book Bender that finally convinced me to bite the bullet and start one of Maya's Highlander Series.  Thank you, Amanda!  I could not put this book down...quite literally!

The Montgomerys and Armstrongs, the two most powerful clans in the Highlands, have been at war with each other for generations.  King Alexander is tired of his two greatest allies always being at odds so he commands that the young Montgomery Laird marry the only daughter of the Armstrong Laird.  If they do not agree to this betrothal, then there will be hell to pay.  With no choice but to obey, Graeme Montgomery rides into enemy territory to claim his bride.

Graeme was strong, commanding, understanding, and practical.  Although he wasn't pleased by the king's command, he understood the importance of following orders in order to protect his people and he did so with an open mind.  He believed the rumors of Eveline Armstrong's instability to be true, yet upon meeting her he was greeted by a beautiful woman who was far more keen than she was given credit for.

I simply loved Eveline!  Gentle, kind, resourceful, determined, and fiercely protective, she is the ideal heroine.  After suffering from a nearly fatal riding accident, she used her disability (deafness brought on by the accident) as a way to escape marriage to a cruel man from the neighboring McHugh clan.  Unfortunately, in doing so, her family began to think that she had injured her mind and was now daft or "not quite all there".  After several years, she was content to accept a simple, quiet life with her family...until she met Graeme Montgomery.

There was an almost instant connection between Graeme and Eveline.  Not quite love at first sight, but definitely acceptance at first sight.  Despite their families' bitterness, they both sought to make the best of bad situation.  

Graeme and Eveline faced two challenges.  The first was getting the Montgomery Clan to accept Eveline as their new mistress.  This was no easy task.  Eveline nearly worked herself to death in an attempt to fit in and she accepted the ridicule with aplomb.  Graeme tried to be patient and understanding of his clan's animosity toward her, but when he learned of all that they put her through he felt that he had no choice but to threaten them.  He would not allow his people to punish an innocent woman.  I loved this about Graeme!  I wanted to be right there with him, yelling at his people for their abusive behavior.  His goodness showed in everything he did.

The other challenge was Ian McHugh.  Eveline thought she escaped him, but Ian decided that he was not done with her yet and used her to gain the upper hand and be "top dog" in the highlands. I don't want to say anymore about what happens because it was a turning point for not just Graeme and Eveline's relationship but also the relationship between the Montgomerys and Armstrongs.

There were a couple of details that were unclear, but frankly, I loved the romance so much that it overshadowed the necessity for the missing information.  The romance moved along at a good pace and by the time they declared their love, I had a huge, dopey smile on my face.

"I love you, Eveline," he whispered, though he knew she could not hear him. "Somehow, I'll make you hear me and you'll know that I love you as fiercely as it's possible for a man to love a woman." 

You better bet your plaid that I'll be getting my hands on "Highlander Most Wanted", which is the story between on Graeme's brother, Bowen and a lass named Genevieve.