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Kristina (502 KP) rated Keep Me Still (Keep Me Still, #1) in Books
Dec 7, 2020
Holy freaking cow. This book sat on my Kindle app for the longest time. Many nights I scanned over it, couldn’t remember if I read it or not, so just avoided it all together. Lately, the eBooks I have downloaded are dwindling, so I got desperate and clicked on practically every book I owned and either hadn’t read or just couldn’t remember reading. I skimmed through a few and just wasn’t feeling it – you ever get that way, start reading the first couple of chapters in several books and just know it’s not what you’re in the mood for? Finally, I clicked on Keep Me Still, though I still couldn’t recall whether or not I had read it. The Kindle version I read had all 3 parts of Keep Me Still. Only after a couple of pages in Let You Leave (part 1), I immediately knew I hadn’t read it and that it was what I was looking for.
From the beginning, I was intrigued with Layla. At first, it sounded as if she had come back from dealing with depression or something of the sort, so I was drawn to figuring out why she felt the way she did and how she overcame it. Then I met Landen; reading his mother beg him to not get into any fights piqued my interest. Who doesn’t love a bad boy, eh? During the first few chapters, if I’m being honest, I was only interested in finding out why the school treated Layla like a pariah. Being a victim of bullying, there was an instant connection with her on that level and I was curious to figure out what could have happened to earn her the nickname “Freaky Flaherty”. Somehow, without my knowing it, that mystery fell to the wayside as I watched Layla’s guard slowly crumble enough to allow Landen in. I’m a sucker for a good romance, it’s pretty much the only thing I read, so their spark inflamed the fire of curiosity within me. I like to guess at what the catalyst will be when it comes to these kinds of stories. There’s always one and I tried my best to figure out what would tear them apart. Watching them come together, watching Layla allow Landen to tear down her walls and show her love, was amazing. Of course, then my heart got crushed when that catalyst occurred.
Immediately, I read the second part, ‘Keep Me Still’, almost with desperation. I needed them to get back together, I needed them to reconcile and let their feelings for each other obliterate all the insecurities and fears they were holding onto. To my delight, there wasn’t much of a fight when they finally came back together, but again, I was waiting for the catalyst – which was a lot more obvious this time around. The end of that section made me ecstatic, but the novella came after and I couldn’t ignore it.
The novella, Hold Us Close, slayed me. Practically from the second or third page, it took my heart and tore it into little tiny pieces, then proceeded to stomp all over it with every heart breaking moment, back to back to back. Many times I had to hold my breath, several moments left me staring at the screen in horrified shock, more often than not, I was shaking my head and mentally berating both Landen and Layla (though Landen got the brunt of my scolding). The ending – the final ending – scared the living daylights out of me. I didn’t know how it would turn out; it was shaping up to be a story without an HEA and I knew I wouldn’t be able to handle it. Before the last page of their story, before reading Landen’s letter, the ending left me in tears. I don’t remember when I downloaded this eBook, but I do know I’m beyond grateful for all those sites that tell you when Amazon is giving them away for free – that’s the only way I could have owned Keep Me Still, because I would remember if I spent money on it, but I’m certainly appreciative to whichever e-mail I received with this title listed for free.
*PS: I really love Corin. She's amazing. Is there a novella with a little more of her and Skylar's story??
From the beginning, I was intrigued with Layla. At first, it sounded as if she had come back from dealing with depression or something of the sort, so I was drawn to figuring out why she felt the way she did and how she overcame it. Then I met Landen; reading his mother beg him to not get into any fights piqued my interest. Who doesn’t love a bad boy, eh? During the first few chapters, if I’m being honest, I was only interested in finding out why the school treated Layla like a pariah. Being a victim of bullying, there was an instant connection with her on that level and I was curious to figure out what could have happened to earn her the nickname “Freaky Flaherty”. Somehow, without my knowing it, that mystery fell to the wayside as I watched Layla’s guard slowly crumble enough to allow Landen in. I’m a sucker for a good romance, it’s pretty much the only thing I read, so their spark inflamed the fire of curiosity within me. I like to guess at what the catalyst will be when it comes to these kinds of stories. There’s always one and I tried my best to figure out what would tear them apart. Watching them come together, watching Layla allow Landen to tear down her walls and show her love, was amazing. Of course, then my heart got crushed when that catalyst occurred.
Immediately, I read the second part, ‘Keep Me Still’, almost with desperation. I needed them to get back together, I needed them to reconcile and let their feelings for each other obliterate all the insecurities and fears they were holding onto. To my delight, there wasn’t much of a fight when they finally came back together, but again, I was waiting for the catalyst – which was a lot more obvious this time around. The end of that section made me ecstatic, but the novella came after and I couldn’t ignore it.
The novella, Hold Us Close, slayed me. Practically from the second or third page, it took my heart and tore it into little tiny pieces, then proceeded to stomp all over it with every heart breaking moment, back to back to back. Many times I had to hold my breath, several moments left me staring at the screen in horrified shock, more often than not, I was shaking my head and mentally berating both Landen and Layla (though Landen got the brunt of my scolding). The ending – the final ending – scared the living daylights out of me. I didn’t know how it would turn out; it was shaping up to be a story without an HEA and I knew I wouldn’t be able to handle it. Before the last page of their story, before reading Landen’s letter, the ending left me in tears. I don’t remember when I downloaded this eBook, but I do know I’m beyond grateful for all those sites that tell you when Amazon is giving them away for free – that’s the only way I could have owned Keep Me Still, because I would remember if I spent money on it, but I’m certainly appreciative to whichever e-mail I received with this title listed for free.
*PS: I really love Corin. She's amazing. Is there a novella with a little more of her and Skylar's story??
Molly J (Cover To Cover Cafe) (106 KP) rated The Amish Nanny's Sweetheart (Amish Country Brides #2) in Books
Feb 27, 2019
This was a quick, fun read and one that I am happy to have had the chance to read. Ms. Drexler’s work is fantastic and I loved the way the story flowed. She created a perfect combination of English and Amish worlds and blended them in a way that makes the reader feel like they are right there in the center of the plot.
Judith and Guy’s characters are chiseled perfectly. An outsider looking in on the Amish world, Guy’s character was one that really tugged at my heart. I loved Judith’s character, as well, and really felt her dreams become my own. That’s an awesome feeling when that happens! The way that Judith and Guy interacted, and the way that Guy tried to fit into the Amish community, really kept the story interesting!
This is a 4 star book and I highly recommend it. The characters and the faithful inspiration and the hope for belonging really jump within the pages. Ms. Drexler is superbly talented and the research she does shows on the pages of this new release. I can’t wait to read another amazing novella by this author! Well done, Ms. Drexler! Well done.
*I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher and was under no obligation to post a review, positive or negative.*
Judith and Guy’s characters are chiseled perfectly. An outsider looking in on the Amish world, Guy’s character was one that really tugged at my heart. I loved Judith’s character, as well, and really felt her dreams become my own. That’s an awesome feeling when that happens! The way that Judith and Guy interacted, and the way that Guy tried to fit into the Amish community, really kept the story interesting!
This is a 4 star book and I highly recommend it. The characters and the faithful inspiration and the hope for belonging really jump within the pages. Ms. Drexler is superbly talented and the research she does shows on the pages of this new release. I can’t wait to read another amazing novella by this author! Well done, Ms. Drexler! Well done.
*I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher and was under no obligation to post a review, positive or negative.*
Mark @ Carstairs Considers (2398 KP) rated Christmas Caramel Murder (Hannah Swensen, #20) in Books
Mar 9, 2018
It’s Christmas time again in Lake Eden, but trouble is brewing for Lisa, Hannah’s partner at The Cookie Jar. Her husband, Herb, is working late every night, and his new assistant is Phyllis, his high school girlfriend. Then Phyllis is cast as Mrs. Claus opposite Herb in the community play. Naturally, when Phyllis shows up murdered, Lisa and Herb are both suspects, and Hannah must work hard to clear their names.
Those familiar with the series will enjoy a chance to check in with the gang in this Christmas novella. The book is short, just 200 pages, including a dozen recipes, and the result is that some characters are reduced to cameos or even just mentions. The story touches all the usual bases, but it is fun and works its way to a logical climax. A few scenes take their cue from A Christmas Carol, but being a fan of that book I enjoyed them although they are certainly different for the series. Most interesting to me, this was a flashback, ignoring the events of the last couple of books, and a major character from those books only appears in the wrap around prologue and epilogue.
Read my full review at <a href="http://carstairsconsiders.blogspot.com/2016/12/book-review-christmas-caramel-murder-by.html">Carstairs Considers</a>.
Those familiar with the series will enjoy a chance to check in with the gang in this Christmas novella. The book is short, just 200 pages, including a dozen recipes, and the result is that some characters are reduced to cameos or even just mentions. The story touches all the usual bases, but it is fun and works its way to a logical climax. A few scenes take their cue from A Christmas Carol, but being a fan of that book I enjoyed them although they are certainly different for the series. Most interesting to me, this was a flashback, ignoring the events of the last couple of books, and a major character from those books only appears in the wrap around prologue and epilogue.
Read my full review at <a href="http://carstairsconsiders.blogspot.com/2016/12/book-review-christmas-caramel-murder-by.html">Carstairs Considers</a>.
Merissa (13194 KP) rated Scion's Awakening (Seven Seals #3) in Books
Jul 24, 2018
Scion's Awakening (Seven Seals #3) by Traci Douglass
Scion's Awakening is the third book in the Seven Seals series, and we meet Wyck, whom we were briefly introduced to at the end of Chago's book. He is the resident geek, and Scion to the Seal of the Apocalypse, who in traditional opposite style, is a scientist trying to stop the world's famine problem. However, with the Nephilim involved, nothing is as simple as it seems.
This is a fast-paced story, so be prepared for it to jump a bit - one example being Quinn's reluctance to be with Wyck as he will only break her heart. Next paragraph, they are together. Now, I know, before I get shouted at, this is a novella so this happens. It was just a bit too quick.
On the whole, this was well written, and a good continuation of the series. I would have preferred to drool a bit more of Wyck's 'geekiness' which wasn't really mentioned, but that's just me! I am thoroughly enjoying this series, and look forward to continuing it. Definitely recommended by me.
* A copy of this book was provided to me with no requirements for a review. I voluntarily read this book, and my comments here are my honest opinion. *
Merissa
Archaeolibrarian - I Dig Good Books!
This is a fast-paced story, so be prepared for it to jump a bit - one example being Quinn's reluctance to be with Wyck as he will only break her heart. Next paragraph, they are together. Now, I know, before I get shouted at, this is a novella so this happens. It was just a bit too quick.
On the whole, this was well written, and a good continuation of the series. I would have preferred to drool a bit more of Wyck's 'geekiness' which wasn't really mentioned, but that's just me! I am thoroughly enjoying this series, and look forward to continuing it. Definitely recommended by me.
* A copy of this book was provided to me with no requirements for a review. I voluntarily read this book, and my comments here are my honest opinion. *
Merissa
Archaeolibrarian - I Dig Good Books!
Merissa (13194 KP) rated The Christmas Gift? (A Barlow Sisters Novella) in Books
Nov 12, 2018
The Christmas Gift? (A Barlow Sisters Novella) by Jordan Ford
The Christmas Gift? is a sweet addition to the Barlow Sisters books. In this one, we get to know Rahn and Roman. Rahn is Chloe's best friend, and Roman is the drummer in Cairo's band. We've met both of them in previous books, and both were characters I wanted to see more of.
Rahn and Roman both have their own histories to deal with, as do every single couple EVER! These two also have different cultures though, which can add a bit more difficulty to the mix. One thing that is clear from the start is just how much these two mean to each other. The problem is pretty much self-explanatory, but it is written exceedingly well. Nothing about it is glossed over, or diminished. I would love to see just how these two get on, and with the next set of books due to come soon, I am hoping for a crossover - even if it's only a little one!
Well written, with no editing or grammatical errors, this was one sweet read. You may need to visit the dentist afterwards! Definitely recommended by me.
* 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!
Rahn and Roman both have their own histories to deal with, as do every single couple EVER! These two also have different cultures though, which can add a bit more difficulty to the mix. One thing that is clear from the start is just how much these two mean to each other. The problem is pretty much self-explanatory, but it is written exceedingly well. Nothing about it is glossed over, or diminished. I would love to see just how these two get on, and with the next set of books due to come soon, I am hoping for a crossover - even if it's only a little one!
Well written, with no editing or grammatical errors, this was one sweet read. You may need to visit the dentist afterwards! Definitely recommended by me.
* 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!
Samantha Reece (16 KP) rated A Nerdy Holiday in Books
Nov 20, 2018
Contains spoilers, click to show
For starters, if you love Star Wars, read this! I absolutely loved all the references to one of my favorite things!
A Nerdy Holiday flowed so well from start to finish, and Leila is so relatable! A. She loves food. B. Did I mention Star Wars already? C. She does not fall into the cliche “get married when the guy first says sorry” that seems to be in a lot of romance novels and movies. Quinn is equally loveable! I’m smitten with him! (I’m going to add one more thing about him at the end that is a spoiler so here is warning number one!)
The tension between Quinn and Leila seems very realistic, and I really want to read a novel on Vincent and Amelia!
One more thing, you will laugh out loud! It is quite the fun read, and my husband gave me odd looks as I am laughing and reading. Of course, I explained the initial meeting between Quinn and Leila, and he also laughed! So, get ready for a fun and quirky novella that you must read!
*SPOILER BELOW*
Can we talk about that Darth Vader moment for a minute? I would have lost my anger right there! And can someone please tell me where I can find said Darth Vader costume? My husband desperately needs one!
A Nerdy Holiday flowed so well from start to finish, and Leila is so relatable! A. She loves food. B. Did I mention Star Wars already? C. She does not fall into the cliche “get married when the guy first says sorry” that seems to be in a lot of romance novels and movies. Quinn is equally loveable! I’m smitten with him! (I’m going to add one more thing about him at the end that is a spoiler so here is warning number one!)
The tension between Quinn and Leila seems very realistic, and I really want to read a novel on Vincent and Amelia!
One more thing, you will laugh out loud! It is quite the fun read, and my husband gave me odd looks as I am laughing and reading. Of course, I explained the initial meeting between Quinn and Leila, and he also laughed! So, get ready for a fun and quirky novella that you must read!
*SPOILER BELOW*
Can we talk about that Darth Vader moment for a minute? I would have lost my anger right there! And can someone please tell me where I can find said Darth Vader costume? My husband desperately needs one!
Merissa (13194 KP) rated Riptide (Boys of Summer) in Books
Jun 18, 2019
Riptide (Boys of Summer) by Jordan Ford
Jace - or Bass as he is known throughout most of this book - is a thrill-seeker. He is the ultimate paradox - a bad boy who doesn't actually try to be bad, and has a heart. He makes stupid decisions based on hurt feelings. His story is completely understandable and heartbreaking with how he feels. Ms. Ford has done a magnificent job of bringing him to life, to make his quandary completely relate-able.
And that's the thing with this book. As a reader, I got it. I could see where Bass was coming from, and why he behaved the way he did. Would I make the same decisions? No, but then I'm not a sixteen-year-old boy with the same experiences as him.
With no editing or grammatical errors that jolted me, I thoroughly enjoyed this novella, and can't wait to see what happens when he goes to Ryder Bay and meets up with SnapDragon.
As a standalone, this is a great read. As a prequel to the next Ryder Bay story, it's fantastic! Definitely recommended by me.
* 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!
And that's the thing with this book. As a reader, I got it. I could see where Bass was coming from, and why he behaved the way he did. Would I make the same decisions? No, but then I'm not a sixteen-year-old boy with the same experiences as him.
With no editing or grammatical errors that jolted me, I thoroughly enjoyed this novella, and can't wait to see what happens when he goes to Ryder Bay and meets up with SnapDragon.
As a standalone, this is a great read. As a prequel to the next Ryder Bay story, it's fantastic! Definitely recommended by me.
* 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!
Merissa (13194 KP) rated Unbalanced (Demon Lovers, #1) in Books
Dec 17, 2018
Addie is having a last drink with her colleagues before making her way home to nurse her upcoming hangover. She has been made redundant and has nothing to get up for. On her way home, she hears a cry for help and goes to see what she can do. What happens next is beyond her wildest imaginings and sends her spiraling into the world of demons and fulcrums. What Leah did out of duty, Addie quickly comes to do out of love and affections for 'her' demons. Will she be able to balance out Jet and Locan before they kill each other and will them be able to kill the demon that is taking out the teams?
This is a very short story that is full of heat. It has an interesting part with the fulcrum and what it means to lose one but there is a part when Addie wonders if she has done her 'job' too well and isn't actually needed anymore. There are gaps in the world building and character back stories but it is only a short novella so you can't expect everything. There is some ménage action and a snippet of M/M that Addie watches whilst half asleep.
If you would like something to warm you up but not bog you down with details, then give this one a shot.
This is a very short story that is full of heat. It has an interesting part with the fulcrum and what it means to lose one but there is a part when Addie wonders if she has done her 'job' too well and isn't actually needed anymore. There are gaps in the world building and character back stories but it is only a short novella so you can't expect everything. There is some ménage action and a snippet of M/M that Addie watches whilst half asleep.
If you would like something to warm you up but not bog you down with details, then give this one a shot.
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A possible direct link between the two greatest literary collections of the fourteenth century,...