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MaryAnn (14 KP) rated Delilah (Ties That Bind #4) in Books
Nov 4, 2019
Theyve sparred for years, but now theyre both headed for a knockout.
Newly elected judge, John M. Turner, tries his best to soothe the hard feelings of former Circuit Judge Delilah James, the woman he bested in the election by only a narrow margin, but his friends and her haughty reputation are making it difficult for him to let things slide. Worse yet, a vengeful assistant state attorney, the other candidate whose entry in the race actually handed the win to John, is seeking to have them both removed from the Florida Bar. Delilah wants to make amends to John, but every time she attempts to apologize or to behave in court, she makes a mess of it. Since leaving the bench, life has become complicated: Johns teenager sister hates her, Libby Carter, has been arrested for battery on a police officer and embroiled her in the plight of the homeless, her past has returned to haunt her, and if thats not enough, shes fallen into the one experience in life she never thought would happen to her. John finally offers to make peace, but Delilahs not ready for that. Calling a truce with the man you love? Whats the fun in that?
My Thoughts: What more can I say? A story about friends who become like family; they care for one another, they look out for one another and they are there for one another. This is a fabulous book! I honestly could not put this one down.
All the characters are fun, the storyline runs smoothly. Yhis is a book the reader won't put down until it's finished.
The themes that I pulled from the story were, forgiveness and grace. It's about showing the love of God, and how it can influence others. It's about knowing the peace of God and showing His love to others.
This was book 4 in the "Ties That Bind" series. This book can be read by itself without the reader wondering about past events in the series. I enjoyed this book so much that I will go and read the others in this series.
Newly elected judge, John M. Turner, tries his best to soothe the hard feelings of former Circuit Judge Delilah James, the woman he bested in the election by only a narrow margin, but his friends and her haughty reputation are making it difficult for him to let things slide. Worse yet, a vengeful assistant state attorney, the other candidate whose entry in the race actually handed the win to John, is seeking to have them both removed from the Florida Bar. Delilah wants to make amends to John, but every time she attempts to apologize or to behave in court, she makes a mess of it. Since leaving the bench, life has become complicated: Johns teenager sister hates her, Libby Carter, has been arrested for battery on a police officer and embroiled her in the plight of the homeless, her past has returned to haunt her, and if thats not enough, shes fallen into the one experience in life she never thought would happen to her. John finally offers to make peace, but Delilahs not ready for that. Calling a truce with the man you love? Whats the fun in that?
My Thoughts: What more can I say? A story about friends who become like family; they care for one another, they look out for one another and they are there for one another. This is a fabulous book! I honestly could not put this one down.
All the characters are fun, the storyline runs smoothly. Yhis is a book the reader won't put down until it's finished.
The themes that I pulled from the story were, forgiveness and grace. It's about showing the love of God, and how it can influence others. It's about knowing the peace of God and showing His love to others.
This was book 4 in the "Ties That Bind" series. This book can be read by itself without the reader wondering about past events in the series. I enjoyed this book so much that I will go and read the others in this series.
Haley Mathiot (9 KP) rated The Fire Lord's Lover (The Elven Lords, #1) in Books
Apr 27, 2018
Dominic has spent years perfecting his rock-hard shell, keeping his human heart under lock and key, for fear of getting hurt again. His brutal horrible father has tortured him for his softness and lack of black fire magic for years, and Dominic can’t handle any more. So he isn’t prepared for a kind, sweet, tender-hearted wife…
Cassandra has been raised in the catholic school, but trained in to fight in the rebellion as a death-dance assassin. She is sent to marry the son of the Imperial Fire Lord, so that she can get close enough to the Fire Lord to kill him. She knows it’s a death mission, and she’s fully prepared… but she’s not so sure she wants to part with Dominic once she breaks down his hard exterior shell.
As Dominic and Cassandra begin to love each other, Dominic starts to worry about Cassandra’s mission, and Cassandra worries about Dominic’s father trying to kill him. How can two people who love each other protect each other, if protection of the one ends with death for the other? And what of the evil Fire Lord’s hate towards the people and the rebellion against the elves?
I enjoyed The Fire Lord’s Lover from start to finish. The characters were developed quickly and I liked them, the dialogue felt right, and the pacing was great.
The most important thing about The Fire Lord’s Lover, the thing that made it good, was the character’s love for each other. It didn’t feel sappy and fake, centered around physical attraction. It was real and it had reason behind it. Cassandra and Dominic needed each other, and the people needed them together.
At first, I didn’t really like the ending. I almost got a little annoyed at it… but the more I thought about it, the more I liked it—a lot like It’s Not Summer Without You. I didn’t quite like it at first, even though I knew why Kennedy had done what she did… but then I thought back over it again, envisioned in my mind how it would play out, and was very pleased. I won’t spoil it! But I will say that it was surprisingly satisfying.
Content: I thought the love scenes were slightly overkill… I was literally skipping chunks of pages at a time (I don’t read the scenes). There was a little bit of language, but it wasn’t bad and I felt it was appropriate.
Recommendation: Ages 18+
I’ve got a giveaway for 2 copies of The Fire Lord’s Lover up for grabs, and (soon) my ARC will be available for swap at ARC Swap.
Cassandra has been raised in the catholic school, but trained in to fight in the rebellion as a death-dance assassin. She is sent to marry the son of the Imperial Fire Lord, so that she can get close enough to the Fire Lord to kill him. She knows it’s a death mission, and she’s fully prepared… but she’s not so sure she wants to part with Dominic once she breaks down his hard exterior shell.
As Dominic and Cassandra begin to love each other, Dominic starts to worry about Cassandra’s mission, and Cassandra worries about Dominic’s father trying to kill him. How can two people who love each other protect each other, if protection of the one ends with death for the other? And what of the evil Fire Lord’s hate towards the people and the rebellion against the elves?
I enjoyed The Fire Lord’s Lover from start to finish. The characters were developed quickly and I liked them, the dialogue felt right, and the pacing was great.
The most important thing about The Fire Lord’s Lover, the thing that made it good, was the character’s love for each other. It didn’t feel sappy and fake, centered around physical attraction. It was real and it had reason behind it. Cassandra and Dominic needed each other, and the people needed them together.
At first, I didn’t really like the ending. I almost got a little annoyed at it… but the more I thought about it, the more I liked it—a lot like It’s Not Summer Without You. I didn’t quite like it at first, even though I knew why Kennedy had done what she did… but then I thought back over it again, envisioned in my mind how it would play out, and was very pleased. I won’t spoil it! But I will say that it was surprisingly satisfying.
Content: I thought the love scenes were slightly overkill… I was literally skipping chunks of pages at a time (I don’t read the scenes). There was a little bit of language, but it wasn’t bad and I felt it was appropriate.
Recommendation: Ages 18+
I’ve got a giveaway for 2 copies of The Fire Lord’s Lover up for grabs, and (soon) my ARC will be available for swap at ARC Swap.
Alison Pink (7 KP) rated Fifty Shades of Grey in Books
Jan 15, 2018
So I debated for quite awhile about reading this book. All the reviews are so mixed...you love it or you hate it. It is all over the place from internet to radio to CNN, but it was both of my former college roommates & best friends that finally talked me into it, through Facebook no less!
In an interview on CNN with some female members of a book club, I heard 50 Shades described as a Disney prince fairy tale for grown-ups. I couldn't agree more...of course I can't see old Walt even fantasizing about some of the things that take place in this tale!
I am by no means a fan of erotic literature. Hell, I don't even like trashy romance novels, but this one, DAMN! I was hooked from the get. Now don't get me wrong, it was not the steamy, unbelievable, hot sex scenes that got to me(yes, I am human!) Mr. Grey & Miss Steele are intriguing characters. They are so well developed & in some strange way easy to relate to...not that I know much about bondage or billionaires!
I found myself HATING Christian with a passion & in the next sentence wishing I knew him. He is such a conundrum. I found myself identifying with Ana, yet at the same time not getting her motivation at all. It was a heady mix of confusing & normal all at the same time.
I very much look forward to finding out what happens in the next part!!
In an interview on CNN with some female members of a book club, I heard 50 Shades described as a Disney prince fairy tale for grown-ups. I couldn't agree more...of course I can't see old Walt even fantasizing about some of the things that take place in this tale!
I am by no means a fan of erotic literature. Hell, I don't even like trashy romance novels, but this one, DAMN! I was hooked from the get. Now don't get me wrong, it was not the steamy, unbelievable, hot sex scenes that got to me(yes, I am human!) Mr. Grey & Miss Steele are intriguing characters. They are so well developed & in some strange way easy to relate to...not that I know much about bondage or billionaires!
I found myself HATING Christian with a passion & in the next sentence wishing I knew him. He is such a conundrum. I found myself identifying with Ana, yet at the same time not getting her motivation at all. It was a heady mix of confusing & normal all at the same time.
I very much look forward to finding out what happens in the next part!!
KatieLouCreate (162 KP) rated The Legacy in Books
Feb 6, 2018
Great Ending
This books makes up for the downfall and slower pace of the second one in this series. It is high paced, action packed, and the stakes are high. All of this makes for a great YA dystiopian read. Again, the book is easy to read so it is perfect for those who only want to commit a few hours for a book.
What I love about this series is how it raises controversial topic and does not shy away at involving them in the writing for maximum effect. The book allows you to question what is going on along with the characters. Perfect for the developing mind of a teenager and even adults. The ending is good as well with the major plot twist which I won't delve into much. But its good.
As I've already said in my previous reviews so I won't bang on about it too much here, the characters could be improved. They can be bland and predictable. I don't know whether that is just I, being older, cannot relate to the characters as much, or whether the characters are underdeveloped for the world that has been created around them. I'm tempted to go with the latter theory.
Anyway, I recommend this book if you want something a little different to the types of YA dystopians that are out today. This book is not wholly different to the big things now, but it a little different to what is usually on offer for this genre. It has an edge about it that I like.
What I love about this series is how it raises controversial topic and does not shy away at involving them in the writing for maximum effect. The book allows you to question what is going on along with the characters. Perfect for the developing mind of a teenager and even adults. The ending is good as well with the major plot twist which I won't delve into much. But its good.
As I've already said in my previous reviews so I won't bang on about it too much here, the characters could be improved. They can be bland and predictable. I don't know whether that is just I, being older, cannot relate to the characters as much, or whether the characters are underdeveloped for the world that has been created around them. I'm tempted to go with the latter theory.
Anyway, I recommend this book if you want something a little different to the types of YA dystopians that are out today. This book is not wholly different to the big things now, but it a little different to what is usually on offer for this genre. It has an edge about it that I like.
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Allan Arkush recommended Monterey Pop (1968) in Movies (curated)
Leanne Crabtree (480 KP) rated The Girl (Guardians, #1) in Books
Sep 6, 2019
DNF @ 30%
I've mentioned before that I tend not to read books with characters under the age of 16 (close to being 17) because I find them really, really, really immature. The only exception I've found being Legend by Marie Lu.
That was my problem with this. Emmerson is 15 and likes to think she knows best--so not the case in this, as shown when she runs into trouble 3 times in 30% when ignoring their "stay in a crowd" warnings. During this time, she's taken one look at Marcus and decided she's in love with him and kissed him even though she knows he has a girlfriend. I don't really mind that bit, it was that she then went and apologised to the girlfriend for it happening. Why would you do that?! I'd have smacked her, I think.
As for the rest of the cast, I can't say I minded them. They seemed like a quite fun bunch, apart from Marcus and Ameana.
Then, plot. I liked the idea and will admit to being really intrigued about how it was going to play out. Emmerson somehow having the Triplex that allowed the Guardians and the Akons to find the location of the ladder. Good vs. Evil. Angel's vs. Demons.
Unfortunately the characters (Okay, just Emmerson) really put me off and had me wanting to do this:
<a href="http://s216.photobucket.com/user/leannecrab/media/tumblr_n58oc892NL1rchs43o1_5001.gif.html"; target="_blank"><img src="http://i216.photobucket.com/albums/cc19/leannecrab/tumblr_n58oc892NL1rchs43o1_5001.gif"; border="0" alt=" photo tumblr_n58oc892NL1rchs43o1_5001.gif"/></a>
so I did.
I've mentioned before that I tend not to read books with characters under the age of 16 (close to being 17) because I find them really, really, really immature. The only exception I've found being Legend by Marie Lu.
That was my problem with this. Emmerson is 15 and likes to think she knows best--so not the case in this, as shown when she runs into trouble 3 times in 30% when ignoring their "stay in a crowd" warnings. During this time, she's taken one look at Marcus and decided she's in love with him and kissed him even though she knows he has a girlfriend. I don't really mind that bit, it was that she then went and apologised to the girlfriend for it happening. Why would you do that?! I'd have smacked her, I think.
As for the rest of the cast, I can't say I minded them. They seemed like a quite fun bunch, apart from Marcus and Ameana.
Then, plot. I liked the idea and will admit to being really intrigued about how it was going to play out. Emmerson somehow having the Triplex that allowed the Guardians and the Akons to find the location of the ladder. Good vs. Evil. Angel's vs. Demons.
Unfortunately the characters (Okay, just Emmerson) really put me off and had me wanting to do this:
<a href="http://s216.photobucket.com/user/leannecrab/media/tumblr_n58oc892NL1rchs43o1_5001.gif.html"; target="_blank"><img src="http://i216.photobucket.com/albums/cc19/leannecrab/tumblr_n58oc892NL1rchs43o1_5001.gif"; border="0" alt=" photo tumblr_n58oc892NL1rchs43o1_5001.gif"/></a>
so I did.
Merissa (13000 KP) rated Ariadne Unraveled: A Mythic Retelling in Books
Jul 6, 2021 (Updated Jul 17, 2023)
ARIADNE UNRAVELED is a retelling that involves Ariadne (obviously), plus Dionysus, Theseus, Artemis, and so many more.
The story takes various myths and legends and weaves them into one epic story that features betrayal, transformation, friendship, loyalty, and love. Instead of the usual Athenian telling of the Minotaur, we hear from the Minoans themselves. We learn how their women knew things about their own bodies that others didn't. We see how the Minoans were a magical, intelligent race that made mistakes just like any other. And woven through is Dionysus as he feels his way and figures out just who he is.
Wow! Just... wow! What a story. So intricate and rich in detail, I was totally immersed in Ariadne's story. I loved hearing about her - both the big picture and also the small, intimate details that made her life. And, yes, I know this is myth, but with how it has been written, I could see myself there and it all seemed real. There were even tears shed at some points, it was that good! The pacing is perfect and the writing style is smooth.
This is the first book by this author I have read, but I can guarantee you it won't be the last. Absolutely brilliant and highly recommended by me.
** same worded review will appear elsewhere **
* A copy of this book was provided to me with no requirements for a review. I voluntarily read this book, and the comments here are my honest opinion. *
Merissa
Archaeolibrarian - I Dig Good Books!
Jul 6, 2021
The story takes various myths and legends and weaves them into one epic story that features betrayal, transformation, friendship, loyalty, and love. Instead of the usual Athenian telling of the Minotaur, we hear from the Minoans themselves. We learn how their women knew things about their own bodies that others didn't. We see how the Minoans were a magical, intelligent race that made mistakes just like any other. And woven through is Dionysus as he feels his way and figures out just who he is.
Wow! Just... wow! What a story. So intricate and rich in detail, I was totally immersed in Ariadne's story. I loved hearing about her - both the big picture and also the small, intimate details that made her life. And, yes, I know this is myth, but with how it has been written, I could see myself there and it all seemed real. There were even tears shed at some points, it was that good! The pacing is perfect and the writing style is smooth.
This is the first book by this author I have read, but I can guarantee you it won't be the last. Absolutely brilliant and highly recommended by me.
** same worded review will appear elsewhere **
* A copy of this book was provided to me with no requirements for a review. I voluntarily read this book, and the comments here are my honest opinion. *
Merissa
Archaeolibrarian - I Dig Good Books!
Jul 6, 2021
Debbiereadsbook (1457 KP) rated The Goblin King's Mischief in Books
Oct 29, 2024
The world building is excellent and you can digest each little new bit of information as it comes.
Independent reviewer for Archaeolibrarian, I was gifted my copy of this book.
I thoroughly enjoyed reading this!
When Melody first met Aodh, they were but children, but they promised themselves to each other. When Melody's father found out, he was not happy, and bound Aodh memories of Melody, and took her away. Now, on the verge of being made the mistress of another king, she does something drastic to win the Goblin King's heart. The road to true love is never easy, as Melody soon finds out. Can she make Aodh see her, really SEE that she is his, in every way?
I really only have one niggle about this book! Only Melody gets a say and I really REALLY wanted to hear from Aodh as well. I think, for me, had he been given a say, this would be a 5 star read from me.
That said, what Melody does say is that she gets across all of that heartbreak she faced when her father took her away. All of the emotion she feels, when she makes the dangerous decision to outsmart the Goblin King. And the pain she feels, when Aodh pushes her away.
There is a large supporting cast, with a betrayal thrown in, coming from a very unexpected source! But given the choice this person had to make, you can see why they did it. Melody's brother did something a bit questionable, but he got the answers he needed for Melody.
It's not especially explicit, but there is much emotion here. It's more about Melody winning Aodh over, rather than getting into his bed. Although, she wants that too :0 Some ideas are a little darker, but perfectly normal for this world. Melody is promised to another king as his mistress, and her parents are very happy about that.
No real violence, either.
The world building is excellent. Not everything is thrown at you all at once, and you can digest each little new bit of information as it comes. You can immerse yourself into this world, so beautifully.
First I've read of this author, I'd like to read more.
4 very VERY good stars.
*same worded review will appear elsewhere
I thoroughly enjoyed reading this!
When Melody first met Aodh, they were but children, but they promised themselves to each other. When Melody's father found out, he was not happy, and bound Aodh memories of Melody, and took her away. Now, on the verge of being made the mistress of another king, she does something drastic to win the Goblin King's heart. The road to true love is never easy, as Melody soon finds out. Can she make Aodh see her, really SEE that she is his, in every way?
I really only have one niggle about this book! Only Melody gets a say and I really REALLY wanted to hear from Aodh as well. I think, for me, had he been given a say, this would be a 5 star read from me.
That said, what Melody does say is that she gets across all of that heartbreak she faced when her father took her away. All of the emotion she feels, when she makes the dangerous decision to outsmart the Goblin King. And the pain she feels, when Aodh pushes her away.
There is a large supporting cast, with a betrayal thrown in, coming from a very unexpected source! But given the choice this person had to make, you can see why they did it. Melody's brother did something a bit questionable, but he got the answers he needed for Melody.
It's not especially explicit, but there is much emotion here. It's more about Melody winning Aodh over, rather than getting into his bed. Although, she wants that too :0 Some ideas are a little darker, but perfectly normal for this world. Melody is promised to another king as his mistress, and her parents are very happy about that.
No real violence, either.
The world building is excellent. Not everything is thrown at you all at once, and you can digest each little new bit of information as it comes. You can immerse yourself into this world, so beautifully.
First I've read of this author, I'd like to read more.
4 very VERY good stars.
*same worded review will appear elsewhere
Merissa (13000 KP) rated Code Red in Books
Jun 24, 2021 (Updated Jul 18, 2023)
CODE RED is a love story that will break you down! Or maybe that's just me...
Maddox is young, in love with his manager, and struggling under the immense pressure of being in a successful band. Roscoe is his manager, in love with his charge, and trying to help Maddox survive the latest - gruelling - tour.
These two!!!! Oh, my heart. They are gorgeous together. Sweet and sassy, argumentative and yet completely together. My heart was in my mouth for most of the book as I was worried about Roscoe's job. The boys in the band are fantastic and I really hope they get their HEA's too. I would like to see Steve and Jeremy get together, but that's probably just my mind!
The behind the scenes filming is a part of it that fades to the background (as it's meant to) but provides clear insight at the end. I will admit to wondering if they were still around as I read the book, but am so thankful Ms Walker wrote it the way she did. That way, I received the full impact, and I loved every word.
This is not just a love story though, but also deals with pressure and anxiety, written in a way that takes you along with it. Poor Maddox. Honestly, I really felt for him, and for Roscoe as he tries to discreetly help him.
One thing to finally say - I loved the Late Show scene at the end. Now, I know there have been plenty of hosts of shows by this name, but the one in my mind was the one by my favourite, Stephen Colbert. And when the host's face is described as being surprised, that's who I saw! A wonderful way to end an excellent novel.
I was completely enthralled by this story - wanting my HEA but not wanting the story to finish. Gripping from the very beginning, this is a book I will be re-reading, just to immerse myself in some Moscoe time! Highly recommended by me.
** same worded review will appear elsewhere **
* A copy of this book was provided to me with no requirements for a review. I voluntarily read this book, and the comments here are my honest opinion. *
Merissa
Archaeolibrarian - I Dig Good Books!
Jun 24, 2021
Maddox is young, in love with his manager, and struggling under the immense pressure of being in a successful band. Roscoe is his manager, in love with his charge, and trying to help Maddox survive the latest - gruelling - tour.
These two!!!! Oh, my heart. They are gorgeous together. Sweet and sassy, argumentative and yet completely together. My heart was in my mouth for most of the book as I was worried about Roscoe's job. The boys in the band are fantastic and I really hope they get their HEA's too. I would like to see Steve and Jeremy get together, but that's probably just my mind!
The behind the scenes filming is a part of it that fades to the background (as it's meant to) but provides clear insight at the end. I will admit to wondering if they were still around as I read the book, but am so thankful Ms Walker wrote it the way she did. That way, I received the full impact, and I loved every word.
This is not just a love story though, but also deals with pressure and anxiety, written in a way that takes you along with it. Poor Maddox. Honestly, I really felt for him, and for Roscoe as he tries to discreetly help him.
One thing to finally say - I loved the Late Show scene at the end. Now, I know there have been plenty of hosts of shows by this name, but the one in my mind was the one by my favourite, Stephen Colbert. And when the host's face is described as being surprised, that's who I saw! A wonderful way to end an excellent novel.
I was completely enthralled by this story - wanting my HEA but not wanting the story to finish. Gripping from the very beginning, this is a book I will be re-reading, just to immerse myself in some Moscoe time! Highly recommended by me.
** same worded review will appear elsewhere **
* A copy of this book was provided to me with no requirements for a review. I voluntarily read this book, and the comments here are my honest opinion. *
Merissa
Archaeolibrarian - I Dig Good Books!
Jun 24, 2021