Zoey and the Nice Guy (Big Girl Panties #1) by Carter Ashby

 

I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. 

Just to get the negative out of the way, Zoey and the Nice Guy presented some issues for me, as far as character development.  Her regression from independent, self-sufficient chick who takes care of those she loves to stark-raving lunatic at a certain plot point was annoying.  She went from being a character I could applaud to one I wanted to push down a flight of stairs.  I am a fan of stories where I don't always admire the characters, though, so I kept on with her tale.

For fans of modern romance this is a good choice.  It's quick, it's got a decent plot, and it has some excellent characters.  Zoey is fiercely loyal to her friends, her friends are not spineless twits, and Kellen is a good counterpoint to Zoey.  I would recommend it for its happy ending. 

Zoey and the Nice Guy (Big Girl Panties #1) by Carter Ashby: If you're not a fan of the romance genre, skip it.  Otherwise, you'll probably like it.  Available now from libraries and booksellers. 

Waiting for April by Jaime Loren

I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.

This story is decent if you're looking for just a romance.  The problem overall, however, is that it's not just a romance.  There the angle of reincarnation, with a theme of soul mates who will find each other in any time or place. 

The characters are presented well, each being fairly memorable and unique.  The concept of the story is a good one.  Sadly, it just doesn't mesh together.  There is entirely too much time devoted to the coupling-up of April and Scott.  A mystery is hinted at.  Intrigue is introduced.  Danger is definitely dangled.  But the development of plot isn't really there. 

I felt as if the ending was rather slapped together, not to mention unsatisfactory.  If you have read any of my other reviews you'll know that I am not always a fan of a happy ending.  I love an ending that leaves you feeling a little cheated, so long as the ending makes sense for the rest of the story.  But the suspense is quickly flung into an overly dramatic, not-clearly-explained mash-up of plot twists that leaves you dangling over the edge of a cliff by your fingernails. 

Waiting for April by Jaime Loren: I can't say I recommend this book, but I'll leave it up to you whether or not you'll read it.  Just don't be surprised if you're not a huge fan by the last page.

Altered by A. D. Croucher

 

 

I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.

 

Although this isn't the deepest mystery I've ever read, I really enjoyed this book.  The characters, especially Reese, are engaging, memorable, and highly developed.  The plot is excellent, with expertly timed twists, fantastic pacing, and great dialogue.  It's a fast read- perfect for those who like action, mystery, and just a hint of science-fiction weirdness.  I'll definitely be reading the sequel, and so should you.

 

Altered by A. D. Croucher: A must-read that you won't regret.  Available from booksellers and libraries now!

Since You've Been Gone by Mary Jennifer Payne

This is an okay story.  There is never quite as much mystery as the synopsis hints about.  There's never quite the level of suspense that I think Payne is going for.  The plot isn't as strong as it could have been. 

There is potential here, though.  The characters are memorable, each having multiple layers that readers will like.  The writing is good, even if the plot doesn't quite deliver all that one might want. 

It sounds as if I am undecided on this book, and perhaps I am- to a degree.  I didn't find it an irresistible read, but that doesn't mean someone else will come to the same conclusion.  In this instance, rather than urging you to avoid or buy now, I'll urge you to judge for yourself.  If you think it sounds interesting- go for it.  If not, you probably wouldn't like it much anyway.

Since You've Been Gone by Mary Jennifer Payne: You'll have to make your own judgment here.  Mine is ambiguous at best. 

Golden Son (Red Rising #2) by Pierce Brown

Golden Son is amazing from start to finish.  It is full of action from the first page, and keeps readers on the edges of their seats until the last page.  Darrow, Mustang, Roque, The Jackal, and even Ares are given more depth, more challenges, and more strife (and in some cases, a real face and name). 

The backdrops are richly depicted, the scenes often capable of inducing breathlessness, and the last few chapters might just blow your mind. 

 

There is no sequel slump here. The writing is incredible, the pacing is maginificent, and the characters just keep getting better.  Pierce Brown delivers a fantastic tale, and there is no question of wanting to have the finale now. 

Golden Son by Pierce Brown: Awesome.  Amazing.  Might just ruin you for all other sequels.  Available from booksellers and libraries now!

Fall with Me Madness!

Anyone else really excited to read Fall with Me by J. Lynn?  Other than me, I mean.  I can't wait!   Until then...

The Ship of Brides by JoJo Moyes

The Ship of Brides is a complicated and delicate interweaving of the lives of those aboard a ship carrying Australian war brides to their British husbands. There are many individual story lines, including that of the ship's captain, but Moyes handles them all well. 

All of the characters presented are exquisitely presented.  Even if we don't get the point of view of all of them, they are wonderfully drawn, realistic enough to stay with you long after the book has been finished, and each one shows unique development.

Although it does take a bit to get fully into the story, the writing is excellent.  There are no unanswered questions, but every character has a definitive, if not necessarily happy, ending.  The settings are richly described, and the character interactions all work together to form this incredibly detailed book.   

The Ship of Brides by JoJo Moyes: A little daunting at first, but an incredibly good story.  Available from booksellers and libraries now.