Friday, December 29, 2017

Cover Reveal- The Vengeance of Indra by Shatrujeet Nath

~ Cover Reveal ~
The Vengeance of Indra 
(VikramadityaVeergatha #3)
by Shatrujeet Nath


VENGEANCE IS A CAGE
FORGIVENESS IS FREEDOM

In their greed to possess the deadly Halahala, the devas and the asuras have employed every dirty trick against Vikramaditya and his Council of Nine. But the humans are still standing, bloodied but unbowed.
When the wily Shukracharya discovers the secret to breaking the Council’s strength and unity, he forges an unlikely alliance with his arch-enemy, Indra, to set a deceitful plan in motion.
As cracks emerge between the councilors and their king, ghosts from the past threaten to ruin Vikramaditya and Kalidasa’s friendship, signaling the beginning of an eclipse that will cast a long shadow over all that Vikramaditya holds dear. And into this shadow steps Indra, bearing an old grudge — and a devastating new weapon.
How much longer before the Guardians of the Halahala finally fall apart?

Other Books in the Series:
 
(Click on the Covers for more details)

About the Author:
Shatrujeet Nath is the creator of the runaway national bestseller series VikramadityaVeergatha, a four-book mytho-fantasy arc which includes The Guardians of the Halahala, The Conspiracy at Meru and The Vengeance of Indra. Described as “a new face to Indian mythology” by DNA, Shatrujeet writes for movies and web shows as well. He is also the author of The Karachi Deception, an Indo-Pak spy thriller.




Thursday, December 28, 2017

Review- Eleanor & Park by Rainbow Rowell

Eleanor & Park on Goodreads

Read Sarika's review of Fangirl

 BOOK SUMMARY:

Two misfits.
One extraordinary love.

Eleanor
... Red hair, wrong clothes. Standing behind him until he turns his head. Lying beside him until he wakes up. Making everyone else seem drabber and flatter and never good enough...Eleanor.

Park... He knows she'll love a song before he plays it for her. He laughs at her jokes before she ever gets to the punch line. There's a place on his chest, just below his throat, that makes her want to keep promises...Park.

Set over the course of one school year, this is the story of two star-crossed sixteen-year-olds—smart enough to know that first love almost never lasts, but brave and desperate enough to try.


Release date: February 26th 2013
Published by: St. Martin's Press
Page numbers: 328

REVIEW: 


2017 has been a Rainbow Rowell year for me. I read Fangirl and fell in love with it. It was honestly one of the most comforting books I've ever read and has easily made its way to my list of top five books read this year. Since I loved the book and had a copy of Eleanor & Park lying around, I thought I'd give it a go, as well.


Now compared to Fangirl, Eleanor & Park wasn't all that great. The book started out as being really adorable and very funny in some places, but as I moved ahead, and saw that the pace wasn't picking up fast enough- with descriptions going on and on- I found it to be slightly slow. It just felt like something was really lacking in the book.

When it comes to the characters, I really liked both Eleanor and Park. Being outsiders and different, they were both extremely relatable. I loved how their families were poles apart, and played an important role in the book, which is something I really appreciate about Young Adult novels. I did have some problems with Eleanor's family- not because it was bad, but because in spite of knowing they were bad, no one was doing anything about it.

Rainbow Rowell writes so well that even some tedious descriptions seemed magnificent because of the flow of words. Her YA characters are honestly so raw and relatable that it's hard not to like them. She is a superfine Young Adult writer of our time, and in spite of some problems I had with Eleanor & Park, I sure am looking forward to more books from her.

I'm not saying that Eleanor & Park was bad. It was the contrary, actually. It was a great book. Had I read it before Fangirl, I probably would have liked it more, but I didn't, so it faded slightly in comparison. Nonetheless, I would recommend this one to fans of YA as its a deep book, especially considering the fact that the story revolves around two sixteen year olds.


Buy the book: AMAZON



Wednesday, December 27, 2017

Waiting on Wednesday #219

"Waiting On Wednesday" is a weekly bookish meme, hosted by Jill at Breaking the Spines, that spotlights upcoming releases we're eagerly anticipating. 

I Have Lost My Way by Gayle Forman
Publication date- March 27th 2018


Goodreads Summary:

I Have Lost My Way is a novel about three teens who have sacrificed enormously and suffered deeply personal losses, and how their fates become intertwined after an accident in Central Park.

The first character we meet is Freya.
Freya is a singer on the cusp of fame when she loses her voice and with it the prospect of everything she’s fought so hard for. 

The second character we meet is Harun.
Harun has been living a lie for years and has this one last day to be honest about who he is and who he loves, before he commits himself to a life-long deception.

The third character we meet is Nathaniel.
Nathaniel has just arrived in New York City, his first time away from his remote forest home, his first time separated from his father, with whom he long ago formed a dangerously inescapable “fellowship of two.”

I haven't read a Gayle Forman book in so long, and this has be both excited and curious, so I'll be looking forward to reading it. 

What are you waiting on this Wednesday?




Tuesday, December 26, 2017

Teaser Tuesday #83


Teaser Tuesday is a weekly bookish meme hosted by Miz B of A Daily Rhythm. Anyone can play along!

“And it made me wonder if sometimes the greatest loss you ever feel is something that nobody will see when they look at you.”

- Fraternize by Rachel Van Dyken


Summary-

Emerson just made her dream come true as a professional cheerleader for her favorite pro football team. But even though the plus-size athlete is breaking down boundaries, she still has to contend with the massive rulebook. Carbs? Nope. Chocolate? Definitely not. Still, Emerson loves her curves, and she’ll rock the hell out of this job even if it kills her. Except for one mandate that is easier read than done…

No fraternizing with the players.

Problem one is Miller Quinton: Emerson’s first love, first sex, and the guy who still ignites her daydreams and R-rated fantasies. Thrown back together, Miller and Emerson feel the undeniable pull of passion again, even if the conflict that tore them apart seems insurmountable. Then there’s way-too-sexy Grant Sanchez. He has a serious reputation with the ladies, and when it comes to winning someone he wants, he doesn’t let anyone stand in his way.

Now Emerson is breaking every rule in the manual. But what she doesn’t know is that she’s part of a wicked little game—one that could steal both her dream and her heart.

Monday, December 25, 2017

Review- Once Upon a Maiden Lane by Elizabeth Hoyt

Summary-

Miss Mary Whitsun is far too intelligent to fall for the rakish charms of a handsome aristocrat. But when the gentleman in question approaches her in a bookshop, mistaking her for his fiancée, Lady Johanna Albright, the flirtatious encounter only raises more questions. Could Mary, a servant raised in a St Giles orphanage, actually be Lady Joanna's long-lost twin sister? If so, Mary has been betrothed since birth—to the rakishly handsome artistocrat himself.

Henry Collins, Viscount Blackwell, is far too intrigued by Mary to let her go so easily. He's drawn to her sharp mind, indomitable spirit, and the fiery way in which she dismisses him—ladies simply don't dismiss Lord Blackwell. But as Mary makes her first hesitant steps into society, she can't help but wonder if she truly has a place in Henry's world—or in his heart.


Release date: November 14th, 2017
Published by: Forever Yours
Page numbers: 100

Review-

Elizabeth Hoyt writes some of the most beautiful historical romances. If you are a newbie where historical romances are concerned I'd definitely suggest starting with Elizabeth Hoyt's Maiden Lane series. Once Upon a Maiden Lane is the second to last novella in the long running Maiden Lane series. I'm sad to see it end but it will always remain one of the best historical romance series I've ever read.

This is the story of Mary and Henry. Mary Whitsun works as a servant in St.Giles. She was an orphan found on the doorstep but she was raised by the Makepeace family. Now Mary is all grown up. I loved Mary. She was a smart lady with her head on her shoulders. She was intelligent and not afraid to speak her mind. In a society where women were treated so delicately Mary was strong.

When Mary finds out that she could be Lady Joanna's long lost sister her world flips upside down. Now she's the daughter of an aristocrat and she has herself a fiance. Henry, Viscount Blackwell is intrigued by Mary from the moment he sees her. She is unlike any woman he's met before and the more he gets to know her the more he wants her. Henry was a responsible man who took his duties seriously. He wanted to make his family happy even if it meant sacrificing his own happiness in the process. 

Mary and Henry are to have an arranged marriage and they were great together. There is a twist in the plot as nothing less can be expected of Elizabeth Hoyt but there is no unnecessary drama or angst. As always is the case with novellas I was left wanting more but overall Once Upon a Maiden Lane was very satisfactory. A perfect feel good novella.

*Note: A copy of this book was provided by the author/publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. We thank them.



Friday, December 22, 2017

Cover Reveal- Sparrow Squadron by D.L. Jung



Sparrow Squadron
Genre: YA Historical Fiction/Action-Adventure
Release Date: February 2018

Summary:

"There was a time when flying didn't mean looking over my shoulder for death coming at me."

World War II. June 1941. Hitler's war machine turns to the Soviet Union.

Escaping her hometown ahead of the Nazis, 16-year-old Aelya Makarova seizes a chance to live her dream. Obsessed with flying, she joins a women's fighter squadron to defend her homeland against the invaders. She'll go faster and higher than she's ever gone before.

But the harsh reality of Air Force life shatters her expectations and forces her to grow up fast. The squadron is split by petty rivalries, male pilots treat them like a joke, and the ideal country she thought she was fighting for doesn't really exist.

Finally given a chance to prove herself in battle, Aelya is pushed to breaking point. With all her talent, the help of her comrades, and a lot of luck, she might just make it through. But will there be anything left of her humanity?

With fast-paced action and a heart-rending mix of humour and tragedy, Sparrow Squadron is an adventure novel for young adults that brings an overlooked episode of history to life.


About the Author:
DL Jung has been an enthusiastic student of history since grade school, when he spent lazy afternoons flipping through an old Encyclopedia Britannica set. He enjoys blogging about history and writing historical fiction. He also writes fantasy and horror fiction as Darius Jung.

Jung is married, with two children, and lives in Toronto, Canada. They are lucky enough to spend part of the time in New Zealand. Outside of writing, he has tried stints as an industrial engineer, a film and TV script supervisor, an IT consultant, a professional game show contestant, and a grossly under-qualified business wear model. Sparrow Squadron is his debut novel.

Author Links:
     


Cover Reveal Organized by:




Thursday, December 21, 2017

Blog Tour- Tainted Legacy by Tabitha Peattie


Tainted Legacy: The Ash Academy Series

Genre: YA Fantasy Romance
Release Date: August 25th 2017


Summary from Goodreads:

What would you do if your parents had committed the worst crime in history? 

Who would you turn to if the laws, meant to protect you, were corrupted? 

When is it ok for all the good people to do bad things and the bad people to do good things? 

How can you fall in love with the person who was destined to hate you? 

Welcome to the world of the world of the Gifted. 

Ava has always lived on the fringes of society with her close-knit family. Ever protected, loved and sheltered until the day it’s time to start at Ash Academy. 

Nothing is as it seems, as Ava finds out that everything she thinks she knows is tainted. Tainted by death, lies and deceit. It is her job to learn the truth and stay true to herself despite the darkness all around her. 

No one survives that kind of drama alone. Through Ava’s discovery of their society and her place in it, she will find kindness and support in the most unlikely places. 

From the Ashes we Rise! 

For Readers who enjoyed authors such as: 
Richelle Mead 
Cassandra Clare 
Kelly St Clare 
Jaymin eve 
Laura Thalassa 

A gripping first book in the Ash Academy series. This book is a full-length novel with a HEA and no cliff-hangers. Step into a magical world about love, loss and self-discovery.  



About the Author:


I have been writing for 6 years and have written a number of books. I am really excited to start publishing these and see if others love my books like I do. I'm influenced by so many authors and books that I couldn't list them all the! All my stories have a theme of overcoming what nature has given you as this is something I have really experienced in life. I have struggled with MS since I was 17. This is something which has given me the strength and the experience to be able to write about the lowest lows and the highest highs. 

Author Links:

Book Tour Organized by:







Wednesday, December 20, 2017

Waiting on Wednesday #218

"Waiting On Wednesday" is a weekly bookish meme, hosted by Jill at Breaking the Spines, that spotlights upcoming releases we're eagerly anticipating. 

Zero Hour by Megan Erickson
Publication Date: January 30th, 2018


Summary-

The Fast and the Furious meets Mr. Robot in USA Todaybestselling author Megan Erickson's thrilling new romantic suspense series.

Hacker extraordinaire Roarke Brennan lives each hour - each breath - to avenge his brother's murder. His first move: put together a team of the best coders he knows. They're all brilliant, specialized, and every one an epic pain in his ass. Only now Wren Lee wants in too, threatening to upset their delicate balance. The girl Roarke never allowed himself to want is all grown up with sexy confidence and a dark past ... and she's the wild card he can't control.

Roarke might still think she's a kid, but Wren's been to hell and back. Nothing and nobody can stop her - especially the tatted-up, cocky-as-all-hell hacker. But when years of longing and chemistry collide, Wren and Roarke discover that revenge may be a dish best served blazing hot.
 

I am actually really looking forward to this book. It looks good!
What are you waiting on? :)

Tuesday, December 19, 2017

Teaser Tuesday #82


Teaser Tuesday is a weekly bookish meme hosted by Miz B of A Daily Rhythm. Anyone can play along!

"Okay." She looked down at the turntable, at her own reflection in the tinted acrylic lid. She looked like a fat-faced ghost. She closed her eyes. "Why do you even like me?"

-Eleanor & Park by Rainbow Rowell


Goodreads Summary:

Two misfits.
One extraordinary love.

Eleanor
... Red hair, wrong clothes. Standing behind him until he turns his head. Lying beside him until he wakes up. Making everyone else seem drabber and flatter and never good enough...Eleanor.

Park... He knows she'll love a song before he plays it for her. He laughs at her jokes before she ever gets to the punch line. There's a place on his chest, just below his throat, that makes her want to keep promises...Park.

Set over the course of one school year, this is the story of two star-crossed sixteen-year-olds—smart enough to know that first love almost never lasts, but brave and desperate enough to try.
 

This book is so adorable! 

What teaser have you shared this Tuesday? 


Monday, December 18, 2017

Review- Can't Get Enough by Gena Showalter

Summary-

New York Times best selling author Gena Showalter returns with a sizzling Original Heartbreakers tale, featuring a rough, tough bad boy brought to his knees by... a kindergarten teacher? 

The king of one-night stands...
To inherit--and destroy--his father’s business at long last, Brock Hudson needs a temporary wife. The ruthless ex-military heartthrob has always avoided romantic entanglements. Women are sweet, but vengeance will be sweeter. Or so he thinks. Only one woman will do, but the vulnerable beauty is more than he bargained for—sexier, wittier, and utterly irresistible.

The queen of the deep freeze…
After an abusive first marriage, Lyndie Scott has sworn off relationships. But still she longs for a child of her own. Turns out, the brawler who used to frighten her with only a glance is the answer to her problems. She agrees to his proposal, with a caveat: spend every night in bed with her, then walk away for good when it’s time to divorce. Even if she’s pregnant. 

A marriage of breathtaking inconvenience... 
As the days pass too quickly and the nights heat up, Brock battles a sense of possession and obsession. Will the former commitment-phobe convince his wife they’re better off together, or will she pack her bags and go?


Release date: December 5th, 2017
Published by: Strawberry Valley Press
Page numbers: 234

Review-

Can't Get Enough by Gena Showalter is the sixth book in her Original Heart breaker series which takes place in a small town called Strawberry Valley. Though this is the sixth book each book can be read as a stand alone and it follows the story of a different couple. I don't think it is necessary to read the previous books but the signs of Brock and Lyndie's story starts of a couple of books back.

Let's start with Lyndie. Lyndie has spent her entire life under an abusive father then an abusive husband. Now after finally getting over it she's coming to terms with herself. She is a strong independent woman and doesn't want to be tied down by anything or anyone. I liked Lyndie. Yes she was hesitant at first but she did trust Brock. Lyndie wanted to be a mother very bad and she could fulfil that dream of hers with Brock's proposal.

Brock was a nice hero to. Due to an emotionally abusive mother he didn't believe that anyone could genuinely love him. Things change when his father passes away and he is left to take care of the company. The only clause is that he has to marry to take ownership. So Brock asks Lyndie the only girl friend he trusts and desires above anyone else.

Can't Get Enough follows the marriage of convenience tropes and I've realised that I do enjoy it at times. Lyndie and Brock were good together and they both helped the other over come their fears and insecurities. I also enjoyed seeing Ryanne and Jude and Dorothea and Daniel. They were great friends who always supported Brock and Lyndie and were always there to pull their heads out of their asses. 

Can't Get Enough was comparatively shorter than the rest of Gena Showalter's books. But this was a good thing because there was no unnecessary angst and the conflict was resolved pretty swiftly. If you enjoy small town romances I'd suggest picking up one of the Original Heart breaker books.

*Note: A copy of this book was provided by the author/publisher in exchange for an honest review. We thank them.