Stacking the Shelves - hosted by Tynga at Tynga's Reviews - features books that you bought, borrowed, rented from the library, received for review, etc.
What I'm Reading
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What books are stacking your shelves?
Arrows by Melissa Gorzelanczyk
Author: Melissa Gorzelanczyk
Publisher: Delacorte Press
Release Date: January 26th 2016
Summary from Goodreads:
A modern cupid story set in present-day Wisconsin combining the fantastical elements of Greek mythology with the contemporary drama of MTV's Teen Mom.
People don’t understand love. If they did, they’d get why dance prodigy Karma Clark just can’t say goodbye to her boyfriend, Danny. No matter what he says or does or how he hurts her, she can’t stay angry with him . . . and can’t stop loving him. But there’s a reason why Karma is helpless to break things off: she’s been shot with a love arrow.
Aaryn, son of Cupid, was supposed to shoot both Karma and Danny but found out too late that the other arrow in his pack was useless. And with that, Karma’s life changed forever. One pregnancy confirmed. One ballet scholarship lost. And dream after dream tossed to the wind.
A clueless Karma doesn’t know that her toxic relationship is Aaryn’s fault . . . but he’s going to get a chance to make things right. He’s here to convince Danny to man up and be there for Karma. But what if this god from Mount Olympus finds himself falling in love with a beautiful dancer from Wisconsin who can never love him in return?
People don’t understand love. If they did, they’d get why dance prodigy Karma Clark just can’t say goodbye to her boyfriend, Danny. No matter what he says or does or how he hurts her, she can’t stay angry with him . . . and can’t stop loving him. But there’s a reason why Karma is helpless to break things off: she’s been shot with a love arrow.
Aaryn, son of Cupid, was supposed to shoot both Karma and Danny but found out too late that the other arrow in his pack was useless. And with that, Karma’s life changed forever. One pregnancy confirmed. One ballet scholarship lost. And dream after dream tossed to the wind.
A clueless Karma doesn’t know that her toxic relationship is Aaryn’s fault . . . but he’s going to get a chance to make things right. He’s here to convince Danny to man up and be there for Karma. But what if this god from Mount Olympus finds himself falling in love with a beautiful dancer from Wisconsin who can never love him in return?
Review
Arrows was one of those books where I just loved the cover but never actually read the blurb. When I went to set up this review I finally read the blurb and I am glad that I did not read it sooner. I do have friends that love MTV's Teen Mom but it is just not a show I watch, so the summary might have made my shy away from this book. Now if you like Teen Mom I can see the appeal for you but if you do not then just ignore the blurb and be pleasantly surprised like I was.
I was very surprised at first and a little hesitant in the first couple chapters, I was not expecting the interplay between Greek mythology and present day to be so sudden. Once I grasped the setting and understood the overall role of Aaryn (the son of cupid) I was sucked into the story. I enjoyed the unique plot, I was crushing pages just wanting to know more. Gorzelanczyk did a fantastic job building anticipation throughout the story.
The ending felt rushed, after so much anticipation and build up I would have loved an extra 20 pages. That would be my only complaint. Other than that I loved to cute story and use of Greek mythology was fun and different. I definitely recommend if you are looking for an easy and entertaining read!
The ending felt rushed, after so much anticipation and build up I would have loved an extra 20 pages. That would be my only complaint. Other than that I loved to cute story and use of Greek mythology was fun and different. I definitely recommend if you are looking for an easy and entertaining read!
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A Night Divided by Jennifer A. Nielsen
Author: Jennifer A. Nielsen
Publisher: Scholastic
Release Date: August 25th 2015
Summary from Goodreads:
From New York Times bestselling author Jennifer A. Nielsen comes a stunning thriller about a girl who must escape to freedom after the Berlin Wall divides her family between east and west.
With the rise of the Berlin Wall, twelve-year-old Gerta finds her family divided overnight. She, her mother, and her brother Fritz live on the eastern side, controlled by the Soviets. Her father and middle brother, who had gone west in search of work, cannot return home. Gerta knows it is dangerous to watch the wall, to think forbidden thoughts of freedom, yet she can't help herself. She sees the East German soldiers with their guns trained on their own citizens; she, her family, her neighbors and friends are prisoners in their own city.
But one day, while on her way to school, Gerta spots her father on a viewing platform on the western side, pantomiming a peculiar dance. Then, when she receives a mysterious drawing, Gerta puts two and two together and concludes that her father wants Gerta and Fritz to tunnel beneath the wall, out of East Berlin. However, if they are caught, the consequences will be deadly. No one can be trusted. Will Gerta and her family find their way to freedom?
With the rise of the Berlin Wall, twelve-year-old Gerta finds her family divided overnight. She, her mother, and her brother Fritz live on the eastern side, controlled by the Soviets. Her father and middle brother, who had gone west in search of work, cannot return home. Gerta knows it is dangerous to watch the wall, to think forbidden thoughts of freedom, yet she can't help herself. She sees the East German soldiers with their guns trained on their own citizens; she, her family, her neighbors and friends are prisoners in their own city.
But one day, while on her way to school, Gerta spots her father on a viewing platform on the western side, pantomiming a peculiar dance. Then, when she receives a mysterious drawing, Gerta puts two and two together and concludes that her father wants Gerta and Fritz to tunnel beneath the wall, out of East Berlin. However, if they are caught, the consequences will be deadly. No one can be trusted. Will Gerta and her family find their way to freedom?
Review
A Night Divided was a vivid and heart-warming story about a determined girl's mission to bring her family together. The book can be enjoyed by all ages as it provides a unique perspective on the construction of the Berlin Wall. That being said, the main character is 12 and the young voice was a bit much for me at times. Even though the narrator is younger, she is true to her age; Gerta is a bit stubborn, sometimes moody, and at times naive but it all fit her personality very well.
The struggles Gerta and her family face and try to overcome really is the central focus of the book. Gerta gives the reader a view of what life would have been like during the West and East Berlin struggles. This is not a time frame I am quite familiar with so I found the story to be a refreshingly different historical fiction.
The family dynamics between Gerta and her brother Fritz evolve over the course of the story into something wonderful. The book is mixture of family bonding moments and high stake actions. A Night Divided is a family-oriented, well written, historical fiction that glimpses into the life of a 12 year old girl digging for her freedom. I recommend this book especially to a younger reader!
The struggles Gerta and her family face and try to overcome really is the central focus of the book. Gerta gives the reader a view of what life would have been like during the West and East Berlin struggles. This is not a time frame I am quite familiar with so I found the story to be a refreshingly different historical fiction.
The family dynamics between Gerta and her brother Fritz evolve over the course of the story into something wonderful. The book is mixture of family bonding moments and high stake actions. A Night Divided is a family-oriented, well written, historical fiction that glimpses into the life of a 12 year old girl digging for her freedom. I recommend this book especially to a younger reader!
Happiness for Beginners by Katherine Center
Author: Katherine Center
Publisher: St. Martin's Griffin
Release Date: March 24th 2015
Summary from Goodreads:
A year after getting divorced, Helen Carpenter, thirty-two, lets her annoying, ten years younger brother talk her into signing up for a wilderness survival course. It's supposed to be a chance for her to pull herself together again, but when she discovers that her brother's even-more-annoying best friend is also coming on the trip, she can't imagine how it will be anything other than a disaster. Thus begins the strangest adventure of Helen's well-behaved life: three weeks in the remotest wilderness of a mountain range in Wyoming where she will survive mosquito infestations, a surprise summer blizzard, and a group of sorority girls.
Yet, despite everything, the vast wilderness has a way of making Helen's own little life seem bigger, too. And, somehow the people who annoy her the most start teaching her the very things she needs to learn. Like how to stand up for herself. And how being scared can make you brave. And how sometimes you just have to get really, really lost before you can even have a hope of being found.
Yet, despite everything, the vast wilderness has a way of making Helen's own little life seem bigger, too. And, somehow the people who annoy her the most start teaching her the very things she needs to learn. Like how to stand up for herself. And how being scared can make you brave. And how sometimes you just have to get really, really lost before you can even have a hope of being found.
Review
Happiness for Beginners balances heavy topics with light-hearted humor in a beautiful, adventure story. Helen has been facing quite a tough year and decides she needs to leave her comfort zone and explore nature. While I personally haven't faced some of her struggles I found Helen incredibly relate-able. I immediately felt for her and was cheering her on.
Jake is hands down a favorite of mine. Jake is a good guy, he is funny, quick witted, smart, and extremely like-able. The interesting and unique relationship between Jake and Helen are all over the place. Even though Jake wants to help Helen, she is determined to find herself on her own. She learns a lot about her strengths and weaknesses and what happiness means to her. While Helen and nature do not always get along she preservers through her journey.
Helen befriends a range of other hikers, one suggests reflecting on three good/happy things and to train yourself to see the good in your day. I loved the concept and I know its nothing new but it fit the story so well and made me pause to reflect on my own outlook on happiness. The self growth, secondary characters, and humor made this story one of my favorite feel good books!
Jake is hands down a favorite of mine. Jake is a good guy, he is funny, quick witted, smart, and extremely like-able. The interesting and unique relationship between Jake and Helen are all over the place. Even though Jake wants to help Helen, she is determined to find herself on her own. She learns a lot about her strengths and weaknesses and what happiness means to her. While Helen and nature do not always get along she preservers through her journey.
Helen befriends a range of other hikers, one suggests reflecting on three good/happy things and to train yourself to see the good in your day. I loved the concept and I know its nothing new but it fit the story so well and made me pause to reflect on my own outlook on happiness. The self growth, secondary characters, and humor made this story one of my favorite feel good books!
Stacking the Shelves (159) Jan 23th
Stacking the Shelves - hosted by Tynga at Tynga's Reviews - features books that you bought, borrowed, rented from the library, received for review, etc.
Upcoming Reads
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The Winner's Kiss (The Winner's Trilogy #3) by Marie Rutkoski
A Night Divided by Jennifer A. Nielsen
Rule (Marked Men #1) by Jay Crownover
Lumberjanes #2 by Noelle Stevenson, Grace Ellis, Brooke A. Allen
A Night Divided by Jennifer A. Nielsen
Rule (Marked Men #1) by Jay Crownover
Lumberjanes #2 by Noelle Stevenson, Grace Ellis, Brooke A. Allen
What books are stacking your shelves??
The Shadow Queen by C.J. Redwine
Author: C.J. Redwine
Publisher: Balzer + Bray
Release Date: February 16th 2016
Summary from Goodreads:
Lorelai Diederich, crown princess and fugitive at large, has one mission: kill the wicked queen who took both the Ravenspire throne and the life of her father. To do that, Lorelai needs to use the one weapon she and Queen Irina have in common—magic. She’ll have to be stronger, faster, and more powerful than Irina, the most dangerous sorceress Ravenspire has ever seen.
In the neighboring kingdom of Eldr, when Prince Kol’s father and older brother are killed by an invading army of magic-wielding ogres, the second-born prince is suddenly given the responsibility of saving his kingdom. To do that, Kol needs magic—and the only way to get it is to make a deal with the queen of Ravenspire, promise to become her personal huntsman…and bring her Lorelai’s heart.
But Lorelai is nothing like Kol expected—beautiful, fierce, and unstoppable—and despite dark magic, Lorelai is drawn in by the passionate and troubled king. Fighting to stay one step ahead of the dragon huntsman—who she likes far more than she should—Lorelai does everything in her power to ruin the wicked queen. But Irina isn’t going down without a fight, and her final move may cost the princess the one thing she still has left to lose.
In the neighboring kingdom of Eldr, when Prince Kol’s father and older brother are killed by an invading army of magic-wielding ogres, the second-born prince is suddenly given the responsibility of saving his kingdom. To do that, Kol needs magic—and the only way to get it is to make a deal with the queen of Ravenspire, promise to become her personal huntsman…and bring her Lorelai’s heart.
But Lorelai is nothing like Kol expected—beautiful, fierce, and unstoppable—and despite dark magic, Lorelai is drawn in by the passionate and troubled king. Fighting to stay one step ahead of the dragon huntsman—who she likes far more than she should—Lorelai does everything in her power to ruin the wicked queen. But Irina isn’t going down without a fight, and her final move may cost the princess the one thing she still has left to lose.
Review
Snow White. Magic. Dragons
The Shadow Queen is a Snow White re-tellling that takes the traditional story and then throws in magic dragons, and a crazier queen. The book starts of with an action heavy intro and then slows down to develop the characters. While I do appreciate the grabby intro, I felt a bit like I was just thrown into the deep end. I needed to find my balance before really enjoying what was going on. In the end though, I enjoyed The Shadow Queen, the plot gradually climbs to the climax of the story. There are flashbacks but overall the plot pacing was linear and very traditional.My main reservation was the predictability of a couple plot points. Predictability that comes at you when you are reading and you go no no no don't you dare do what I think you are going to. I felt like it was to give motivation and move the plot forward so I get it but I wish it went differently.
Aside from that I thoroughly enjoyed the addition of dragons to this classic story. I also enjoyed the dynamic between Lorelai and Kol. There are a lot of different things going on and a lot of secondary stories and characters that make for a very entertaining book! Redwine offers the reader an intricate and imaginative re-telling.
The Girl from Everywhere by Heidi Heilig
Author: Heidi Heilig
Series: The Girl from Everywhere #1
Publisher: Greenwillow Books
Release Date: February 16, 2016
Source: eARC obtained from Publisher in exchange for an honest review (thanks HarperCollins!)
Summary from Goodreads:
Heidi Heilig’s debut teen fantasy sweeps from modern-day New York City to nineteenth-century Hawaii to places of myth and legend. Sixteen-year-old Nix has sailed across the globe and through centuries aboard her time-traveling father’s ship. But when he gambles with her very existence, it all may be about to end. The Girl from Everywhere, the first of two books, will dazzle readers of Sabaa Tahir, Rae Carson, and Rachel Hartman.
Heidi Heilig’s debut teen fantasy sweeps from modern-day New York City to nineteenth-century Hawaii to places of myth and legend. Sixteen-year-old Nix has sailed across the globe and through centuries aboard her time-traveling father’s ship. But when he gambles with her very existence, it all may be about to end. The Girl from Everywhere, the first of two books, will dazzle readers of Sabaa Tahir, Rae Carson, and Rachel Hartman.
Nix’s life began in Honolulu in 1868. Since then she has traveled to mythic Scandinavia, a land from the tales of One Thousand and One Nights, modern-day New York City, and many more places both real and imagined. As long as he has a map, Nix’s father can sail his ship, The Temptation, to any place, any time. But now he’s uncovered the one map he’s always sought—1868 Honolulu, before Nix’s mother died in childbirth. Nix’s life—her entire existence—is at stake. No one knows what will happen if her father changes the past. It could erase Nix’s future, her dreams, her adventures . . . her connection with the charming Persian thief, Kash, who’s been part of their crew for two years. If Nix helps her father reunite with the love of his life, it will cost her her own.
In The Girl from Everywhere, Heidi Heilig blends fantasy, history, and a modern sensibility with witty, fast-paced dialogue, breathless adventure, and enchanting romance.
Review
The Girl from Everywhere has a lot going for it. The premise - being able to navigate through time using maps as a gateway - was wildly exciting and the fact that they did so on a pirate ship of sorts only added to the nostalgia. And I LOVED the fantastical piece where they could travel to long lost places and time to collect things straight out of myths and legends - like fire salamanders and a bottomless bag for example. The ending really capitalized on this and I highly suggest reading the Author's Note to learn about the inspiration behind certain elements of the story. It was really fascinating. I was enthralled by the whole concept and loved when Heilig revealed more about the workings of time-travel and navigating - like why certain maps didn't work and the notion of fate. It kind of blew my mind (as the ins and outs of time-traveling usually do).
I thought the plot was a solid one - Nix's father is searching for a very specific map so that he can go back and save Nix's mother but Nix worries that if he succeeds, he will erase her past. Most of their adventures to date have been a means to this end with Nix helping him because she doesn't know how to say no. But along the way they are manipulated into agreeing to a very dangerous mission - so most of this book actually takes place in 1868 Honolulu. We get bits and pieces of what island life was like back then but this was something I wish was more pronounced since I didn't really feel like I was in 1868 Honolulu. The ending was exciting but also a little rushed and disjointed at times. But I don't know if my lack of enthusiam had something to do with my reading experience since by that point I was somewhat frustrated with the story...
I kind of struggled with the characters in this book. Nix's father infuriated me. For most of the story, he was a pretty terrible father in his single-minded pursuit of his long lost love and treated his daughter pretty poorly. And Nix frustrated me for allowing him to use her so easily, especially when she did have bargaining power and her life was on the line. She also frustrated me in her choice of love interests. She has a loyal and witty friend pining over her, but instead she gives her attention to this hot-and-cold island boy who in my mind, hasn't earned her affection. All of these wrongs were righted in the end so my frustration was gone by the time I finished but it didn't erase how I felt while reading 70% of the book and my mindset going into the ending.
Because I had my ups and downs with the characters, I didn't love this book. But I still easily liked it. And I can see why so many do love this book, especially since my feelings are a very individual experience and the ending does make up for a lot. And again, the concept was great and the story holds a lot of potential. I am curious to see what adventure the next book in this series brings. I definitely was not expecting that kind of ending!
I thought the plot was a solid one - Nix's father is searching for a very specific map so that he can go back and save Nix's mother but Nix worries that if he succeeds, he will erase her past. Most of their adventures to date have been a means to this end with Nix helping him because she doesn't know how to say no. But along the way they are manipulated into agreeing to a very dangerous mission - so most of this book actually takes place in 1868 Honolulu. We get bits and pieces of what island life was like back then but this was something I wish was more pronounced since I didn't really feel like I was in 1868 Honolulu. The ending was exciting but also a little rushed and disjointed at times. But I don't know if my lack of enthusiam had something to do with my reading experience since by that point I was somewhat frustrated with the story...
I kind of struggled with the characters in this book. Nix's father infuriated me. For most of the story, he was a pretty terrible father in his single-minded pursuit of his long lost love and treated his daughter pretty poorly. And Nix frustrated me for allowing him to use her so easily, especially when she did have bargaining power and her life was on the line. She also frustrated me in her choice of love interests. She has a loyal and witty friend pining over her, but instead she gives her attention to this hot-and-cold island boy who in my mind, hasn't earned her affection. All of these wrongs were righted in the end so my frustration was gone by the time I finished but it didn't erase how I felt while reading 70% of the book and my mindset going into the ending.
Because I had my ups and downs with the characters, I didn't love this book. But I still easily liked it. And I can see why so many do love this book, especially since my feelings are a very individual experience and the ending does make up for a lot. And again, the concept was great and the story holds a lot of potential. I am curious to see what adventure the next book in this series brings. I definitely was not expecting that kind of ending!
Top Ten Books We've Recently Added To My TBR
Top Ten Tuesday is a weekly meme hosted by The Broke and the Bookish. This week's Top Ten list is
"Top Ten Books We've Recently Added To My TBR"
"Top Ten Books We've Recently Added To My TBR"
Ashley's Top Five
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What are your top ten?
Ink and Bone by Rachel Caine
Author: Rachel Caine
Series: The Great Library #1
Publisher: NAL
Release Date: July 7, 2015
Summary from Goodreads:
In an exhilarating new series, New York Times bestselling author Rachel Caine rewrites history, creating a dangerous world where the Great Library of Alexandria has survived the test of time.…
Ruthless and supremely powerful, the Great Library is now a presence in every major city, governing the flow of knowledge to the masses. Alchemy allows the Library to deliver the content of the greatest works of history instantly—but the personal ownership of books is expressly forbidden.
Jess Brightwell believes in the value of the Library, but the majority of his knowledge comes from illegal books obtained by his family, who are involved in the thriving black market. Jess has been sent to be his family’s spy, but his loyalties are tested in the final months of his training to enter the Library’s service.
When his friend inadvertently commits heresy by creating a device that could change the world, Jess discovers that those who control the Great Library believe that knowledge is more valuable than any human life—and soon both heretics and books will burn…
Ruthless and supremely powerful, the Great Library is now a presence in every major city, governing the flow of knowledge to the masses. Alchemy allows the Library to deliver the content of the greatest works of history instantly—but the personal ownership of books is expressly forbidden.
Jess Brightwell believes in the value of the Library, but the majority of his knowledge comes from illegal books obtained by his family, who are involved in the thriving black market. Jess has been sent to be his family’s spy, but his loyalties are tested in the final months of his training to enter the Library’s service.
When his friend inadvertently commits heresy by creating a device that could change the world, Jess discovers that those who control the Great Library believe that knowledge is more valuable than any human life—and soon both heretics and books will burn…
Review
My expectations were quite high for Ink and Bone in the wake of so many raving reviews. And while it was a little slower in pace than I would have liked, it was undeniably impressive and lived up to those expectations.
You’ve probably heard the old adage “knowledge is power”. You’ve also probably heard the one that goes “power corrupts and absolute power corrupts absolutely”. These two sayings are in essence the foundation for Ink & Bone. In this world, the Great Library controls all original works (books) and the distribution of information to the masses. While their original intentions might have been pure, now they are anything but. But most don’t realize how deep that corruption runs and the lengths that those in charge will go to to stay in power. Readers get to discover this right along with Jess, as he goes through initiation to become a member in service to the Library.
I love books where characters have to go through a series of tests, an initiation or anything of the sort. I love the challenge, the competition, the mix of excitement and anxiety. And I especially love when the characters I like overcome all that and shine. So it’s no surprise that I had fun rooting for Jess and his friends as they went through Library initiation. I also loved slowly uncovering the secrets of the Library, what they were really up to and who the key players were. I thought it was an added bonus that Jess has something to hide and had to play it extra safe.
The characters in this book really shine. Jess wasn’t the only one with a secret to hide or a complicated past. And coming from all over the world, they all added something unique to the mix. And as the story progresses, they become more than just competitors, they become family. Even their hardass proctor ends up putting his own life on the line to protect his students.
A lot happens in this book and yet, the story is just getting started. Caine takes great care to put a lot of detail into this world, these characters and this storyline. It is perhaps the book’s greatest attribute. I can’t wait to see what Caine has in store for us in the sequel. I will definitely be picking it up!
You’ve probably heard the old adage “knowledge is power”. You’ve also probably heard the one that goes “power corrupts and absolute power corrupts absolutely”. These two sayings are in essence the foundation for Ink & Bone. In this world, the Great Library controls all original works (books) and the distribution of information to the masses. While their original intentions might have been pure, now they are anything but. But most don’t realize how deep that corruption runs and the lengths that those in charge will go to to stay in power. Readers get to discover this right along with Jess, as he goes through initiation to become a member in service to the Library.
I love books where characters have to go through a series of tests, an initiation or anything of the sort. I love the challenge, the competition, the mix of excitement and anxiety. And I especially love when the characters I like overcome all that and shine. So it’s no surprise that I had fun rooting for Jess and his friends as they went through Library initiation. I also loved slowly uncovering the secrets of the Library, what they were really up to and who the key players were. I thought it was an added bonus that Jess has something to hide and had to play it extra safe.
The characters in this book really shine. Jess wasn’t the only one with a secret to hide or a complicated past. And coming from all over the world, they all added something unique to the mix. And as the story progresses, they become more than just competitors, they become family. Even their hardass proctor ends up putting his own life on the line to protect his students.
A lot happens in this book and yet, the story is just getting started. Caine takes great care to put a lot of detail into this world, these characters and this storyline. It is perhaps the book’s greatest attribute. I can’t wait to see what Caine has in store for us in the sequel. I will definitely be picking it up!
The Winning Kiss: A Blog Tour for Marie Rutkoski's The Winner's Kiss (The Winner's Trilogy #3)
We are beyond THRILLED to be participating in the blog tour for The Winner's Kiss, the final book in The Winner's Trilogy by Marie Rutkoski. We both LOVE this series SO MUCH and cannot sing it's praises enough. And Ashley is already reading The Winner's Kiss and can attest to the fact that it is AH-MAZING. So trust us, you want to read this series! Our review for The Winner's Curse can be found here and our review for The Winner's Crime can be found here.
Nicole's Winning Kiss
What book is your favorite literary kiss in?Winter by Marissa Meyer
Who is kissing?
Cress and Thorne
Why is it your favorite?
1. This is one of my favorite series and two of my favorite characters so their happiness means everything to me.
2. Because I have been waiting SO LONG for this kiss to happen. YEARS dammit!
3. Because it was SO HOT. *fans thyself* I mean, see for yourself...
"'All right,' he said, finally. 'I don't want to talk about it, either.'BONUS: What kiss do you hope will occur in Marie Rutkoski's The Winner's Kiss?
She started to not, but was surprised when Thorne pushed away from the door. Cress blinked and stumbled back, started by the sudden movement. Three, four steps. The back of her thighs hit one of the desks.
'What -?'
In one movement, Thorne lifted her onto the desk and pressed her back against an enourmous potted fern and - oh.
Cress had built a thousand fantasies around their rooftop kiss, but this kiss was something new.
Where before, the kiss had been gentle and protective, now there was something passionate. Determined. Cress's body dissolved into nothing but sensation. His hands burned her waist through the skirt's thin fabric. Her knees pressed against his hips, and he pulled her closer, closer, like he couldn't get her close enough. A whimper escaped her mouth, only to be swallowed by his. She heard a moan, but it could have come from either of them.
And where, on the rooftop, the kiss had been cut too short by the battle raging on around them, this kiss went on, and on, and on..."
Well Kestrel and Arin obviously! I'm desperately waiting for that "Let's stop being stupid and just be together already" kiss. It has to happen.
Ashley's Winning Kiss
What book is your favorite literary kiss in?Roar and Liv by Veronica Rossi (Under The Never Sky Novella)
Who is kissing?
Roar and Liv
Why is it your favorite?
Under the Never Sky is one of my favorite series with Roar being one of my favorite secondary character so for him to get a moment full of love makes it one of my favorites. Roar also kisses Liv on her forehead a gesture that I find to be full of love, care, and romance.
"'She wraps her arms around me and kisses me. It's a long kiss, and more than a little desperate. We're both still scared, but my hands grow sure on her body. It's not long before we're both breathing fast again.
'Liv,' I say. 'I wanted you to be able to choose on your own. I didn't want to force you. I haven't asked because I never want to put pressure on you--' 'Shh...' she says. 'I know, Roar.' I rest my forehead against hers. 'I thought I was going to lose you,' Her breath when she whispers, 'I love you, Roar. I always will.'
We find a place to burrow together in the shelter of a pine tree, hidden beneath branches that look timeless. Our nerves are still with us, but there's something more now. A pull that's always been between us. That's only gotten stronger with every day that I've known her. I hold her and tell her about all the days we're leaving behind us, calling up stories, all the memories that are our, until her laughter fades to the quiet rhythm of her breath as she sleep.
Then I kiss the top of her head, feeling steady. Feeling full. That past is behind us now. Tomorrow, we start our future."
BONUS: What kiss do you hope will occur in Marie Rutkoski's The Winner's Kiss?
I am going with Nicole on this one. I magical kiss between Arin and Kestrel!
Tour Schedule
About the Book
Author: Marie Rutkoski
Series: The Winner's Trilogy #3
Publisher: Farrar Straus & Giroux
Release Date: March 29, 2016
Summary:
War has begun. Arin is in the thick of it with untrustworthy new allies and the empire as his enemy. Though he has convinced himself that he no longer loves Kestrel, Arin hasn’t forgotten her, or how she became exactly the kind of person he has always despised. She cared more for the empire than she did for the lives of innocent people—and certainly more than she did for him.
At least, that’s what he thinks.
In the frozen north, Kestrel is a prisoner in a brutal work camp. As she searches desperately for a way to escape, she wishes Arin could know what she sacrificed for him. She wishes she could make the empire pay for what they’ve done to her.
But no one gets what they want just by wishing.
As the war intensifies, both Kestrel and Arin discover that the world is changing. The East is pitted against the West, and they are caught in between. With so much to lose, can anybody really win?
At least, that’s what he thinks.
In the frozen north, Kestrel is a prisoner in a brutal work camp. As she searches desperately for a way to escape, she wishes Arin could know what she sacrificed for him. She wishes she could make the empire pay for what they’ve done to her.
But no one gets what they want just by wishing.
As the war intensifies, both Kestrel and Arin discover that the world is changing. The East is pitted against the West, and they are caught in between. With so much to lose, can anybody really win?
About the Author
Marie Rutkoski is the author of The Kronos Chronicles, including The Cabinet of Wonders and The Celestial Globe. The Cabinet of Wonders, her debut novel, was named an Indie Next Kids’ List Great Read and a Bank Street Best Children’s Book of the Year, among other honors. Rutkoski grew up in Bolingbrook, Illinois (a suburb of Chicago), as the oldest of four children. She attended the University of Iowa, where she took Writers’ Workshop classes and studied with Pulitzer Prize-winner James Alan McPherson. After graduating, she lived in Moscow and Prague. Upon receiving her Ph.D. from Harvard University, she held dual appointments as a lecturer there in both English and American Literature and Language, and History and Literature. Rutkoski is currently a professor at Brooklyn College, where she teaches Renaissance Drama, children’s literature and creative writing. She lives in New York City with her husband and cat.
And We Send a Kiss To... Hannah C
The Deal & The Mistake by Elle Kennedy
Author: Elle Kennedy
Publisher: Self-Published
Release Date: February 24th 2015
Summary from Goodreads:
She’s about to make a deal with the college bad boy...
Hannah Wells has finally found someone who turns her on. But while she might be confident in every other area of her life, she’s carting around a full set of baggage when it comes to sex and seduction. If she wants to get her crush’s attention, she’ll have to step out of her comfort zone and make him take notice…even if it means tutoring the annoying, childish, cocky captain of the hockey team in exchange for a pretend date.
...and it’s going to be oh so good.
All Garrett Graham has ever wanted is to play professional hockey after graduation, but his plummeting GPA is threatening everything he’s worked so hard for. If helping a sarcastic brunette make another guy jealous will help him secure his position on the team, he’s all for it. But when one unexpected kiss leads to the wildest sex of both their lives, it doesn’t take long for Garrett to realize that pretend isn’t going to cut it. Now he just has to convince Hannah that the man she wants looks a lot like him.
Hannah Wells has finally found someone who turns her on. But while she might be confident in every other area of her life, she’s carting around a full set of baggage when it comes to sex and seduction. If she wants to get her crush’s attention, she’ll have to step out of her comfort zone and make him take notice…even if it means tutoring the annoying, childish, cocky captain of the hockey team in exchange for a pretend date.
...and it’s going to be oh so good.
All Garrett Graham has ever wanted is to play professional hockey after graduation, but his plummeting GPA is threatening everything he’s worked so hard for. If helping a sarcastic brunette make another guy jealous will help him secure his position on the team, he’s all for it. But when one unexpected kiss leads to the wildest sex of both their lives, it doesn’t take long for Garrett to realize that pretend isn’t going to cut it. Now he just has to convince Hannah that the man she wants looks a lot like him.
Review
I adored this book. Elle Kennedy had me hooked from the first chapter. The Deal was one of those books you take with you everyone just so you can keep reading it. I was lugging my kindle all over the house, I needed more and more. Between the great story line and steamy scenes, I was flying through this book.
The Deal does have common character roles, popular athletes and a smart but quieter girl. Before you think, "Oh, no this sounds predictable and I have seen it before," STOP! Don't worry, while The Deal does focus on two very stereotypical roles, Kennedy keeps the dialogue fresh and the characters like-able. My favorite three aspects of this book are Hanna, Garrett, and the hockey team. Hannah is a strong female character who is not afraid to give grief and attitude. The banter between the two is fantastic. I loved how Garrett, a former player, was not a jerk to Hannah (at least not for the sake of being plain mean). He wanted to protect her and be a good guy. Lastly I loved the hockey aspects and the teammate's secondary roles.
Go read The Deal! It's full of fun banter, hot hockey players and a smart girl. Both characters grow over the course of the book with the reader along for the steamy but heart warming, aww-inducing read!
The Deal does have common character roles, popular athletes and a smart but quieter girl. Before you think, "Oh, no this sounds predictable and I have seen it before," STOP! Don't worry, while The Deal does focus on two very stereotypical roles, Kennedy keeps the dialogue fresh and the characters like-able. My favorite three aspects of this book are Hanna, Garrett, and the hockey team. Hannah is a strong female character who is not afraid to give grief and attitude. The banter between the two is fantastic. I loved how Garrett, a former player, was not a jerk to Hannah (at least not for the sake of being plain mean). He wanted to protect her and be a good guy. Lastly I loved the hockey aspects and the teammate's secondary roles.
Go read The Deal! It's full of fun banter, hot hockey players and a smart girl. Both characters grow over the course of the book with the reader along for the steamy but heart warming, aww-inducing read!
Author: Elle Kennedy
Publisher: Createspace
Release Date: May 6th 2015
Summary from Goodreads:
He’s a player in more ways than one…
College junior John Logan can get any girl he wants. For this hockey star, life is a parade of parties and hook-ups, but behind his killer grins and easygoing charm, he hides growing despair about the dead-end road he’ll be forced to walk after graduation. A sexy encounter with freshman Grace Ivers is just the distraction he needs, but when a thoughtless mistake pushes her away, Logan plans to spend his final year proving to her that he’s worth a second chance.
Now he’s going to need to up his game…
After a less than stellar freshman year, Grace is back at Briar University, older, wiser, and so over the arrogant hockey player she nearly handed her V-card to. She’s not a charity case, and she’s not the quiet butterfly she was when they first hooked up. If Logan expects her to roll over and beg like all his other puck bunnies, he can think again. He wants her back? He’ll have to work for it. This time around, she’ll be the one in the driver’s seat…and she plans on driving him wild.
College junior John Logan can get any girl he wants. For this hockey star, life is a parade of parties and hook-ups, but behind his killer grins and easygoing charm, he hides growing despair about the dead-end road he’ll be forced to walk after graduation. A sexy encounter with freshman Grace Ivers is just the distraction he needs, but when a thoughtless mistake pushes her away, Logan plans to spend his final year proving to her that he’s worth a second chance.
Now he’s going to need to up his game…
After a less than stellar freshman year, Grace is back at Briar University, older, wiser, and so over the arrogant hockey player she nearly handed her V-card to. She’s not a charity case, and she’s not the quiet butterfly she was when they first hooked up. If Logan expects her to roll over and beg like all his other puck bunnies, he can think again. He wants her back? He’ll have to work for it. This time around, she’ll be the one in the driver’s seat…and she plans on driving him wild.
Review
The Mistake is a companion novel to The Deal. It stands alone but the reader gets brought back into the college hockey team's world. This book focuses on John Logan, another hockey player. Logan tries to run away from his problems and end up at the Freshman dorms where he meets Grace.
As the story progresses the reader learns more and more about Logan's back story and family. The story also follows Grace through her up and downs and self-reflection. The dynamic between the two is steamy without any attachments and feelings. Those come later. Unlike book one, this book is less of a slow build but rather a roller coaster romance that starts right away. The writing style is incredibly readable between the alternating POVs and adorable moments.
I hands down recommend this series if you are looking for a fast and steamy read! I cannot wait to see what The Score has in store.
As the story progresses the reader learns more and more about Logan's back story and family. The story also follows Grace through her up and downs and self-reflection. The dynamic between the two is steamy without any attachments and feelings. Those come later. Unlike book one, this book is less of a slow build but rather a roller coaster romance that starts right away. The writing style is incredibly readable between the alternating POVs and adorable moments.
I hands down recommend this series if you are looking for a fast and steamy read! I cannot wait to see what The Score has in store.
The Quiet Concert Turns Three!!
The Quiet Concert Turns Three!
This blog is now officially THREE YEARS OLD!!! It is so hard to believe we have been doing this for three years now. Thank you to all those who have and continue to support us, we would not have hit this milestone without you!
Looking Back
It is so crazy to think three years ago we decided to start The Quiet Concert. We had no idea what we were getting into. No idea the work it would take to run a blog but really no idea what an amazing group of people we would get the pleasure of meeting both online and in person. Blogging has brought so many great friends into our lives and allowed the two of us to continue our adventures together. Most of you already know but Nicole and I (Ashley) went to college together, it is where we bonded over our love for TV shows and books. We continue to share that bond and get the amazing opportunity to go to bookish events together (and of course non bookish activities too!).
This year we have had the amazing opportunity of being able to go to ALA MW in Chicago. It was cut a bit short due to the huge snow storm that hit but we were able to meet up with so many great bloggers and interact with fantastic publishers. In the Spring we were able to celebrate each other's birthdays and go to NYC for BEA! Looking back at our accomplishments, we have connected with a couple new publishers and hit 500 Followers on Instagram and over 1000 followers on Twitter!
Looking Ahead
We are both really excited for what our fourth year of blogging will bring. It feels amazing just to be able to type that sentence. I guess we are not technically newbies anymore but at times it still feels like it. There is so much of this blogosphere that we want to continue to explore – new blogs to find, new connections to make, new features/discussions to post. We mentioned it last year in our celebration post but it feels so prevalent to mention it again - it is important for us to remember that we set our own pace. We both juggle traveling, adventures, loved ones, and events so while it might seem we are not around as much, we are still here, just enjoying other things at the moment. We are always still reading and loving on the bookish community.
But boring stuff aside, we are so darn excited for all of the bookish awesomeness that await us. We just got back ALA Midwinter this past week and were able to say hi to many familiar bloggers! And that is just the start of the year! We are hoping to make it to ALA in the summer, book signings throughout the year and other events that we might not even be aware of yet but are in our future for sure. AND ALL OF THE WONDERFUL BOOKS! BRING IT ON 2016!
Let's Celebrate!
As a way to say thank you to all of our supporters, here is a little giveaway to win a book of your choice from one of the images below! This giveaway is open to the US only! A BIG THANKS AND LOTS OF LOVE TO EACH AND EVERY ONE OF YOU! *Hugs*
Nameless by Jennifer Jenkins
Author: Jennifer Jenkins
Series: Nameless #1
Publisher: Month9Books
Release Date: October 6, 2015
Summary from Goodreads:
Four clans have been at war for centuries: the Kodiak, the Raven, the Wolf and the Ram. Through brutal war tactics, the Ram have dominated the region, inflicting death and destruction on their neighbors.
Seventeen-year-old Zo is a Wolf and a Healer who volunteers to infiltrate the Ram as a spy on behalf of the allied clans. She offers herself as a Ram slave, joining the people who are called the “nameless.” Hers is a suicide mission – Zo’s despair after losing her parents in a Ram raid has left her seeking both revenge and an end to her own misery. But after her younger sister follows her into Rams Gate, Zo must find a way to survive her dangerous mission and keep her sister safe.
What she doesn’t expect to find is the friendship of a young Ram whose life she saves, the confusing feelings she develops for a Ram soldier, and an underground nameless insurrection. Zo learns that revenge, loyalty and love are more complicated than she ever imagined in the first installment of this two-book series.
Seventeen-year-old Zo is a Wolf and a Healer who volunteers to infiltrate the Ram as a spy on behalf of the allied clans. She offers herself as a Ram slave, joining the people who are called the “nameless.” Hers is a suicide mission – Zo’s despair after losing her parents in a Ram raid has left her seeking both revenge and an end to her own misery. But after her younger sister follows her into Rams Gate, Zo must find a way to survive her dangerous mission and keep her sister safe.
What she doesn’t expect to find is the friendship of a young Ram whose life she saves, the confusing feelings she develops for a Ram soldier, and an underground nameless insurrection. Zo learns that revenge, loyalty and love are more complicated than she ever imagined in the first installment of this two-book series.
Review
Nameless was everything I could ask for in a book. The world was well-developed and interesting. The characters were complex and had strong development arcs. The relationships – both platonic and romantic – were well-crafted and oh so heartwarming. And the plot was fast-paced and full of surprises. I am so impressed by this debut and am surprised it hasn’t received more attention. This is a must read, my friends!
In an attempt to gain information that might give her Wolf clan an advantage in the unending war against the Ram, Zo willingly gives herself over to the enemy, under the guise of a refugee from another clan, to become a Nameless slave. However, her plan goes awry from the start when her sister follows her to the gates and is taken as well. Now Zo can’t easily sacrifice herself because her sister’s fate is tied to her own. I easily rooted for Zo as she tried to outsmart the Rams and stay off their radar. She was extremely smart and capable but her bold personality, compassionate nature and striking looks couldn’t help but draw attention. She was quick to make enemies of several influential Ram, to the detriment of those around her, but to her surprise, she was quick to make friends and allies as well.
I love a behind-enemy-lines-type of story – the high stakes and constant strategizing always make for a fun read. And I especially love a pair of star-crossed lovers. Nameless could not have done either more justice. I loved the complicated relationships in this book so much and how two enemies began to see each other in a new light. It was a slow process to overcome a lifetime of ingrained hate but made for some great and thought-provoking reading material. There is also so much that happens within and outside the Ram camp as the war continues and dissent between the Ram and Nameless people rises but I don’t want to give anything away. Just know that this book is full and satisfying and heart-wrenching and hopeful and more.
I honestly can’t say enough positive things about Nameless. I absolutely loved it! So much so, that Clanless has become one of my most anticipated 2016 reads. It’s well worth a read!
In an attempt to gain information that might give her Wolf clan an advantage in the unending war against the Ram, Zo willingly gives herself over to the enemy, under the guise of a refugee from another clan, to become a Nameless slave. However, her plan goes awry from the start when her sister follows her to the gates and is taken as well. Now Zo can’t easily sacrifice herself because her sister’s fate is tied to her own. I easily rooted for Zo as she tried to outsmart the Rams and stay off their radar. She was extremely smart and capable but her bold personality, compassionate nature and striking looks couldn’t help but draw attention. She was quick to make enemies of several influential Ram, to the detriment of those around her, but to her surprise, she was quick to make friends and allies as well.
I love a behind-enemy-lines-type of story – the high stakes and constant strategizing always make for a fun read. And I especially love a pair of star-crossed lovers. Nameless could not have done either more justice. I loved the complicated relationships in this book so much and how two enemies began to see each other in a new light. It was a slow process to overcome a lifetime of ingrained hate but made for some great and thought-provoking reading material. There is also so much that happens within and outside the Ram camp as the war continues and dissent between the Ram and Nameless people rises but I don’t want to give anything away. Just know that this book is full and satisfying and heart-wrenching and hopeful and more.
I honestly can’t say enough positive things about Nameless. I absolutely loved it! So much so, that Clanless has become one of my most anticipated 2016 reads. It’s well worth a read!
Top Ten 2015 Releases We Meant To Get To But Didn't
Top Ten Tuesday is a weekly meme hosted by The Broke and the Bookish. This week's Top Ten list is
"Top Ten 2015 Releases We Meant To Get To But Didn't"
"Top Ten 2015 Releases We Meant To Get To But Didn't"
Ashley's Top Five
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What are your top ten?
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