#BookReview The Matchmakers of Minnow Bay by Kelly Harms

The Matchmakers of Minnow Bay
by Kelly Harms

Genre: Adult, Chick Lit, Contemporary, Romance, Women's Fiction
Publication:  August 9th, 2016 by Thomas Dunne Book
Format: ebooks
Source: Author, Publisher, NetGalley
Connect: Website | Facebook | Twitter | Goodreads

A young painter, Lily has reached a crossroads in her life. Her career hasn't taken off, her best friend may no longer be the trusted friend she thought, her boyfriend is a disappointment, and now she can't keep up with the rising cost of living in the city. With no one to turn to, Lily is forced to move from her beloved apartment, but while packing she comes across a piece of mail that had slipped to the back of her junk drawer: a letter detailing further action needed to finalize the annulment of a quickie Vegas wedding. Ten years ago!

Lily decides it's time to turn over a new leaf and the first item on her list of things to fix is getting the annulment... but you can't just send a reply ten years later, "Hey by the way we are still married." This is something that must be addressed in person. Lily takes to the road to track down her husband - the charming, fun, and sexy man she connected with all those years ago - Ben Hutchinson.

Ben Hutchinson left a wealthy dot-com lifestyle behind to return home to his family and the small town he loves, Minnow Bay. He's been living off the grid and the last thing he expects is a wife he didn't know he had to show up on his doorstep.

By chance, Lily arrives at the magical Minnow Bay Inn, and there she will discover not just a place to lay her head, but new friends, a thriving art community, and maybe even the love of her life.

Lily's life isn't going as well as she wants. Her love life and her career as a painter are going nowhere. Now, Lily is forced to move out from her apartment. While packing to leave, she discovers a mail that reminds her to finalize the annulment of her Vegas wedding ten years ago.

The Matchmakers of Minnow Bay is a fun, light romance read. It isn't hard to get into the book. The author has a really nice writing style that I like and the characters are loveable. Lily is an air head, but it was fun to see how she is going to survive her new life. She went to Minnow Bay looking for her husband and expects him to be the charming, fun man she knew years ago, except that, he changed. A lot. I love the interaction between Lily and Ben right from the beginning. They are great together despite their misunderstanding and all that. The supporting characters in the book, Colleen and Jenny especially are making the story livelier. I absolutely enjoy the setup! If you're looking for a light, fun book, this is the book for you.

I received a copy of this book from the author/publisher and NetGalley in exchange for my review.

#BookReview The Goodbyes by Leslie Welch

The Goodbyes
by Leslie Welch

Genre: Contemporary, Romance
Publication:  Published July 12th, 2016 by Blue Moon Publishers
Format: ebooks. 226 pages
Source: ARC, Netgalley
Connect: Website | Twitter | Facebook | Goodreads

Since he was thirteen years old, rockstar Webb Turner pined for Bree, the enigmatic girl across the street. He captured her in his songs, but never in his orbit. His lyrics about her propelled Webb's band to superstardom, but his fame came with the price of finding real love.

When he discovers that Bree is dying, Webb leaves a stadium full of adoring fans to be at her side. As a blizzard batters the east coast, will Webb succeed in his fight against the storm and the mistakes of his past for a chance to say one last goodbye?

If I was judging this book by its cover, I'd say that this is a thriller read. But it's not. The Goodbyes is a story of love, self-discovery and growing up. The story is told in Webb Turner's point of view. Webb received word that Bree, the girl across the street that he love is dying. He abandoned everything and rushes home to be with her. Along the journey home, Webb is having a flashback on his relationship with Bree. 

I wasn't sure I was going to like this book. Mainly because of most of the rockstar in books I read always acted like an ass. I'm just glad that Webb isn't like that. He's more down to earth kind of a rockstar.

Webb and Bree's relationship is a rollercoaster of emotion. I get frustrated at their relationship sometimes. A part of me wanted them to be together, and another part of me don't. I thoroughly enjoyed reading about their relationship and what made them who they are at the present. What I really love about the book is the unexpected ending. I'm just glad that the book end with a happy ending.

I received a copy of this book from the author/publisher and NetGalley in exchange for my review.

#BookReview Risuko: A Kunoichi Tale by David Kudler

Risuko: A Kunoichi Tale 
(Seasons of the Sword #1)
by David Kudler

Genre: Historical, Young Adult, Fantasy
Publication:  June 15th, 2016 by Stillpoint
Format: ebooks
Source: NetGalley, Stillpoint Digital Press
Connect: Website | Twitter | Facebook | Goodreads | Instagram

Can One Girl Win A War?

Though Japan has been devastated by a century of civil war, Risuko just wants to climb trees. Growing up far from the battlefields and court intrigues, the fatherless girl finds herself pulled into a plot that may reunite Japan -- or may destroy it. She is torn from her home and what is left of her family, but finds new friends at a school that may not be what it seems.

Magical but historical, Risuko follows her along the first dangerous steps to discovering who she truly is.

Kano Murasaki, called Risuko (Squirrel) is a young, fatherless girl, more comfortable climbing trees than down on the ground. Yet she finds herself enmeshed in a game where the board is the whole nation of Japan, where the pieces are armies, moved by scheming lords, and a single girl couldn't possibly have the power to change the outcome. Or could she?

I wasn't expecting much when I first read the book. I was afraid that it was going to be a letdown. But after reading Risuko, I have to say that I'm impressed with this book. I think the author did a very good job in writing the book with a strong heroine and magical world of the Kunoichi. 

Kano Murasaki or Risuko was a child who grew up without her father. She was taken away from her family and was brought to a school. She was a likable character. She's strong and curious. She sounded a bit like a child now, but I have no doubt that she was going to grow up fine. The secondary characters made the story much more interesting. I love her friends and will be happy to see more of them. I'm excited to see Risuko and her friend grew as Kunoichi.

I was intrigued with the book after the first few chapters, although it slowed down a bit in the middle. It wasn't draggy, but slow. Soon, the story picked up its pace with a whole lot of action, mystery, secrets, and twists. The book was lacking in romance, but I'm fine with that because I truly enjoyed Risuko's growth within the story. I'm glad that there was going to be a continuation from this book. Risuko: A Kunoichi Tale is definitely a one of the best historical fantasy book I've read.

I received a copy of this book from the Netgalley & the publisher in exchange for my review.

#BookReview All the Missing Girls by Megan Miranda

All the Missing Girls
by Megan Miranda

Genre: Thriller, Crime, Mystery, Adult
Publication: 28 Jun 2016 by Simon & Schuster
Format: ebooks
Source: NetGalley, Simon & Schuster
Connect: Website | Twitter | Facebook | Goodreads | Instagram

It’s been ten years since Nicolette Farrell left her rural hometown after her best friend, Corinne, disappeared from Cooley Ridge without a trace. Back again to tie up loose ends and care for her ailing father, Nic is soon plunged into a shocking drama that reawakens Corinne’s case and breaks open old wounds long since stitched.

The decade-old investigation focused on Nic, her brother Daniel, boyfriend Tyler, and Corinne’s boyfriend Jackson. Since then, only Nic has left Cooley Ridge. Daniel and his wife, Laura, are expecting a baby; Jackson works at the town bar; and Tyler is dating Annaleise Carter, Nic’s younger neighbor and the group’s alibi the night Corinne disappeared. Then, within days of Nic’s return, Annaleise goes missing.

Told backwards—Day 15 to Day 1—from the time Annaleise goes missing, Nic works to unravel the truth about her younger neighbor’s disappearance, revealing shocking truths about her friends, her family, and what really happened to Corinne that night ten years ago.

I was intrigued after reading the description. It was interesting to see how the story was going to be told backward, from the time Nicolette (Nic) Farrell returned home. All the Missing Girls tells the story of the disappearance of two missing girls, Corinne, Nic's best friend who disappeared years ago, and Annaleise, who went missing shortly after Nic's return to Cooley Ridge.

Cooley Ridge holds a few secrets with Corinne disappeared. When Annaleise too, went missing, shocking truths about Nic's family and friends resurfaced.

I was a bit worried about the story at first with how the story was told. I was afraid that it wouldn't make sense, but surprisingly, the story worked better with how it was told. I admit that the story was a bit confusing at the beginning. But after reading the book, I think the author did a great job with the storytelling. It was clever to write the story backward with each secret unraveled slowly as the story goes. In the end, I feel like I wanted to reread the story again - from the way it was written and from the correct chronology.

All the Missing Girls is definitely a great crime thriller read. The writing was brilliant. There's a lot of twists that I didn't see or expect. I just didn't know who to trust in the book. It was shocking to find out the truth about the missing girls. I will definitely look forward to the author's other books.

I received a copy of this book from the Netgalley & Simon & Schuster in exchange for my review.

#BookReview Fixin' To Die by Tonya Kappes

Fixin' To Die
(A Kenni Lowry Mystery)
by Tonya Kappes

Genre: Cozy Mystery, Chick Lit, Crime, Mystery
Publication: June 14th, 2016 by Henery Press
Format: ebooks
Source: NetGalley, Henery Press
Connect: Website | Twitter | Facebook | Goodreads

Kenni Lowry likes to think the zero crime rate in Cottonwood, Kentucky is due to her being sheriff, but she quickly discovers the ghost of her grandfather, the town’s previous sheriff, has been scaring off any would-be criminals since she was elected. When the town’s most beloved doctor is found murdered on the very same day as a jewelry store robbery, and a mysterious symbol ties the crime scenes together, Kenni must satisfy her hankerin’ for justice by nabbing the culprits.

With the help of her Poppa, a lone deputy, and an annoyingly cute, too-big-for-his-britches State Reserve officer, Kenni must solve both cases and prove to the whole town, and herself, that she’s worth her salt before time runs out.

Fixin' To Die by Tonya Kappes is definitely a good, cozy mystery  read around. It was fascinating to see a bit of mystery and supernatural combined in a book. Kenni Lowry, a sheriff, faced a murder case and a jewelry store robbery on the same day.  And somehow, a mystery symbol ties the two case together. It was up to Kenni to solve the mystery.

I love Kenni as the main character. It was exciting to know that she's a sheriff. This is the first murder case she had as a sheriff and Kenni must solve the two cases with the help of her Poppa's ghost (my favorite character in the book) and the State Reserve officer, Finn.

This is definitely a cozy mystery read that I really enjoyed. The plot was nice, fun, exciting and believable. There are a little bit of twist here and there keeps me guessing until the end. I enjoy the bits of romance between Kenni and the Finn. Oh well. It wasn't really a romance. But, Kenni does have a crush on Finn. I'm excited to see them again in the next book.

I received a copy of this book from the Netgalley & Henery Press in exchange for my review.

#BookReview Love, Reality Style by Judith Natelli McLaughlin

Love, Reality Style
by Judith Natelli McLaughlin

Genre: Romance, Chick Lit, Drama, Contemporary, Women Fiction
Publication: 7th 2016 by Blue Moon Publishers
Format: ebooks
Source: Netgalley, Author, Publisher
Connect: Website | Twitter | Facebook | Goodreads

When cake-loving third-grade teacher Mary Grace Falcone receives a proposition of marriage from her germ-phobic boyfriend Ralph Ichy, her comfortable life is thrown into a tailspin. Should she marry Ralph? The man dubbed "the CEO of Antiseptic Hands"? Reluctantly, and despite the differing opinions of her best friends Jayde and Annie, Mary Grace accepts. Her decision gets her meddling mother off her back, but also lands her on a reality wedding show where handsome host, Nick Charmin, unexpectedly falls for her.

Will Mary Grace choose hot Nick or faithful Ralph? Is the decision really hers to make? And, is a slice of cake actually the answer to all of life's problems?

I'm such a sucker for books with a food theme. When I heard that the main character, Mary Grace love cake, I know that I need to read this book.

I love the idea of the book, with Mary Grace's hesitation to accept her germ-phobic boyfriend, Ralph Ichy, proposal. I’m sure that many could relate to Mary Grace’s situation. She just wasn’t sure if Ralph was the right man for her. And then, there was her meddlesome friends and mom.

I have to say that I wasn’t a big fan of Mary Grace. Especially after she accepted Ralph’s proposal and met Nick Charmin, the handsome TV host of the wedding show she joined. I thought that Mary Grace’s and Nick’s attraction towards each other came a bit forced and sudden. There are times when I thought that Mary Grace didn’t deserve Ralph. He’s a nice guy, despite being a germ-phobic. He lived with his mother, but only because he loved her, and she was in a situation.

The supporting characters made the book much interesting. Mary Grace’s friends, Jayde, and Annie were two interesting characters. I love how they both have different personalities and advice to Mary Grace. But Mary Grace’s mom definitely irritated me with her attitude to her daughter. 

Love, Reality Style is a quick romance read. The book was written in several point-of-views, but, mainly focusing on Mary Grace’s. I wish that the author concentrates on Mary Grace’s alone. I didn’t like how I get to see a glimpse of Jayde and Annie’s life, but, I didn’t get to learn what happen to the rest of their stories.

I received a copy of this book from the Netgalley & Blue Moon Publishers in exchange for my review.

#BookReview The Only Thing Worse Than Me Is You by Lily Anderson

The Only Thing Worse Than Me Is You
by Lily Anderson

Genre: Contemporary, Romance, Young Adult
Publication: May 17th, 2016 by St. Martin's Griffin
Format: ebooks
Source: NetGalley
Connect: Website | Twitter | Facebook | Goodreads

Trixie Watson has two very important goals for senior year: to finally save enough to buy the set of Doctor Who figurines at the local comic books store, and to place third in her class and knock Ben West--and his horrendous new mustache that he spent all summer growing--down to number four.

Trixie will do anything to get her name ranked over Ben's, including give up sleep and comic books--well, maybe not comic books--but definitely sleep. After all, the war of Watson v. West is as vicious as the Doctor v. Daleks and Browncoats v. Alliance combined, and it goes all the way back to the infamous monkey bars incident in the first grade. Over a decade later, it's time to declare a champion once and for all.

The war is Trixie's for the winning, until her best friend starts dating Ben's best friend and the two are unceremoniously dumped together and told to play nice. Finding common ground is odious and tooth-pullingly-painful, but Trixie and Ben's cautious truce slowly transforms into a fandom-based tentative friendship. When Trixie's best friend gets expelled for cheating and Trixie cries foul play, however, they have to choose who to believe and which side they're on--and they might not pick the same side.

Trixie Watson goes to a prestigious school for the smart students with high IQ. It was her senior year and she wanted to place third in the ranking and knock Ben West, her arch enemy, down to number four. But when their friends started dating, the Trixie and Ben have to play nice. Trixie began to soften towards Ben. But soon, Trixie's best friend was expelled for cheating. And Trixie was determined to find out the truth.

I saw the word, Doctor Who, and knew that I have to read this. And I wasn't disappointed. I love Trixie. She's funny. She can be harsh sometimes, but she had a really good heart and loyalty towards her friends. I love the banter between her and Ben. The occasional fandom references made the book a whole lot entertaining. There are a few references that I didn't get, but that didn't ruin the story.

I love the author's writing style. It's fresh, funny and I enjoyed the sarcasm. The characters were amazing and the plot was really good. Once I picked up the book, it was really hard to put it down. I just can't get enough of Trixie and Ben. They are super cute! I enjoyed this book from the beginning until the end. And then, there was this small plot twist towards the end that just blew me away. 

The Only Thing Worse Than Me Is You by Lily Anderson have everything I love about. Geeky characters, a bit of mystery, and a good romance. If you're looking for a light, cute romance read, or book with fangirl characters, this is the book you're looking for.

I received a copy of this book from the Netgalley & St. Martin's Press in exchange for my review.

#BookReview The Semester of Our Discontent by Cynthia Kuhn

The Semester of Our Discontent (Lila Maclean Mystery #1)
by Cynthia Kuhn

Genre: Cozy Mystery
Publication: April 5th, 2016
Format: ebooks
Source: NetGalley/Henery Press
Connect: Website | Twitter | Facebook | Goodreads

English professor Lila Maclean is thrilled about her new job at prestigious Stonedale University, until she finds one of her colleagues dead. She soon learns that everyone, from the chancellor to the detective working the case, believes Lila—or someone she is protecting—may be responsible for the horrific event, so she assigns herself the task of identifying the killer.

More attacks on professors follow, the only connection a curious symbol at each of the crime scenes. Putting her scholarly skills to the test, Lila gathers evidence, but her search is complicated by an unexpected nemesis, a suspicious investigator, and an ominous secret society. Rather than earning an “A” for effort, she receives a threat featuring the mysterious emblem and must act quickly to avoid failing her assignment…and becoming the next victim.

When I read the description from the book, I know I wanted to read this. It was the first time I read a mystery book surrounding an English professor in a university and I was intrigued!

The Semester of Our Discontent by Cynthia Kuhn is undoubtedly a good cozy mystery book. I love the premises and the mystery.  I like Lila's approach in her investigation. Her curiosity to find out the real culprit and the strange emblem, and the determination to free her and her cousin as the suspect were great. Although, somehow, she was always the person who would accidentally be at the crime scene. I like how the characters would have a conversation about authors, but sadly, I have never heard of most of the authors mentioned.

I thought the author did a good job with the plot and mystery. But I was a bit disappointed with how the culprit was revealed, especially since there was no hint that pointed Lila suspecting the culprit, even just a little bit until the end. I know that sometimes people would commit a crime with motives that I couldn't comprehend, but I have to say that the motive to attempt another murder towards the end of the book was a bit crazy. Overall, I thought that The Semester of Our Discontent was a good read. I did enjoy the book, but I wish the revealing of the whodunit could be better. 

I received a copy of this book from the Netgalley & Henery Press in exchange for my review.

#BookReview Husband Wanted by Charlotte Hughes

Husband Wanted
by Charlotte Hughes

Genre: Women's Fiction, Romance
Publication: February 24th 2016 by Victory Editing
Format: ebooks
Source: NetGalley/Victory Editing
Connect: Website | Goodreads

Frannie Brisbane knew it was an impossible scheme, but unless she went through with it, the daughter she had given up thirteen years ago and who now wanted to visit, would discover that Frannie had painted a very different picture of her life in the letters they’d exchanged. Frannie’s close friends rally around her, and next thing she knows, she is living in a mansion and wearing designer clothes.

The only thing missing is a husband.

Confirmed bachelor, Clay Coleman, has ulterior motives when he agrees to play the role of loving husband, but Frannie, who nursed a crush on him for years, fears she is flirting with danger in their role of let’s pretend. But Frannie and Clay aren’t the only ones keeping secrets. Sooner or later, the truth comes out, exposing everyone involved. Can Frannie ever get past her hurt when she discovers the truth about Clay?

Husband Wanted was a quick, romance read. The story began when Frannie's daughter, whom she had given up thirteen years ago, wants to visit. Unfortunately, Frannie had lied to her daughter about her life. Now, she needed to find someone to pretend as her husband just for a few days until her daughter returned home.

I fell in love with the book's blurbs right away. I love humorous romance read and I was in the mood for something quick, fun read. Husband Wanted starts great. I like the author's easygoing writing style.The premise sounds interesting, but some of the scenes were a bit unreal. The book was fun, but I thought that the characters are lacking in depth. The relationship between Frannie and Clay move on too quickly. There were a few twists towards the end that I enjoyed, but the hasty ending disappointed me.

This book was definitely great if you're looking for something light, fun, romantic read. I do enjoy reading Husband Wanted, but I thought the storyline and the romance part could be better.

I received a copy of this book from the Netgalley & Victory Editing in exchange for my review.

Review: My Best Friend's Exorcism by Grady Hendrix

My Best Friend's Exorcism
by Grady Hendrix

Genre: Horror, Young Adult
Expected publication: May 17th, 2016 by Quirk Books
Format: ebook
Source: NetGalley, Quirk Books
Connect: Website | Twitter | Goodreads

Abby and Gretchen have been best friends since fifth grade, when they bonded over a shared love of E.T., roller-skating parties, and scratch-and-sniff stickers. But when they arrive at high school, things change. Gretchen begins to act . . . different. And as the strange coincidences and bizarre behavior start to pile up, Abby realizes there's only one possible explanation: Gretchen, her favorite person in the world, has a demon living inside her. And Abby is not about to let anyone or anything come between her and her best friend. With help from some unlikely allies, Abby embarks on a quest to save Gretchen. But is their friendship powerful enough to beat the devil?

I was hesitant to read this book at first because of the genre. I don't read a lot of horror book. I'm not a big fan of the horror genre. The last time my friend took me to watch 'The Conjuring', I couldn't sleep for a week. But I decided to give My Best Friend's Exorcism by Grady Hendrix a try anyway. I couldn't resist the pretty cover and the blurbs sounded great.

The book was set up in the 80's, so, I didn't get some of the references, but still, I thoroughly enjoy reading this. It wasn't as scary as I had feared, which was a good thing. I love reading about Abby and Gretchen's friendship—how Abby tried to save her best friend when she suspected that Gretchen was probably possessed by something evil.

The plot building was interesting. There were a few dramas between Abby, Gretchen and their two other friends—Glee and Margaret—which reminded me a bit of the movie, 'Mean Girls'. There are some scary and disgusting moments that made me cringed. I thought that the exorcism scene in the book was going to be something really horrifying, but the author made it a bit humorous with Abby questioning the exorcist's method to cure Gretchen. In the end, I have to say that I absolutely admire Abby and Gretchen's friendship.

I would recommend this book. If you're looking for a fun, horror, YA book, then, this is the book for you.

I received a copy of this book from the Netgalley & Quirk Books in exchange for my review.

Review: The Passenger by Lisa Lutz

The Passenger
by Lisa Lutz

Genre: Adult, Crime & Thriller, Fiction, Mystery, Suspense
Publication: March 1st, 2016 by Simon & Schuster
Format: ebooks
Source: Netgalley, ARC
Connect: Website | Facebook | Twitter | Goodreads

In case you were wondering, I didn’t do it. I didn’t have anything to do with Frank’s death. I don’t have an alibi, so you’ll have to take my word for it...

Forty-eight hours after leaving her husband’s body at the base of the stairs, Tanya Dubois cashes in her credit cards, dyes her hair brown, demands a new name from a shadowy voice over the phone, and flees town. It’s not the first time.

She meets Blue, a female bartender who recognizes the hunted look in a fugitive’s eyes and offers her a place to stay. With dwindling choices, Tanya-now-Amelia accepts. An uneasy―and dangerous―alliance is born.

It’s almost impossible to live off the grid today, but Amelia-now-Debra and Blue have the courage, the ingenuity, and the desperation, to try. Hopscotching from city to city, Debra especially is chased by a very dark secret…can she outrun her past?

I can't stop thinking about this book. It was different than Lisa Lutz's Spellman Series, which happen to be my all time favorite. It was more mysterious and well, a bit more confusing.

The beginning starts with Tanya leaving her husband's body at the base of the stairs. She gets some money, a new name, changes her identity and skips town. Tanya, now Amelia, meets Blue, a bartender who knows exactly who she is and offers her a place to stay. 

'Passanger' has this mysterious thing going on all over the book. A few times, I have to close the book because things are getting confusing.  But I have to pick up the book again to find out to all the answers to my questions—who exactly is Tanya? What is she running away from? And Why?

I guess, Tanya, Amelia, or whoever she is starts to grow on me. She has to change her name and identity for many times to be safe. She has gone through so much while she's on the run and I couldn't help but to feel sorry for her. She finds someone who she might like on her run, and runs again once she found out that he's a cop! And I found Blue an interesting character. She helped Amelia with questioning motives, and in the end, I wish I could hear what is her story.

Lisa Lutz is excellent at building the story with good plots and twists that keeps me going as the mystery behind Tanya-Amelia-Debra unfolds. I definitely enjoy reading this book and would recommend this to fans of crime fans.

I received a copy of this book from the Netgalley & Simon & Schuster in exchange for my review.

Review: The Girlfriend Request by Jodie Andrefski

The Girlfriend Request
by Jodie Andrefski

Genre: Romance, Contemporary,Young Adult
Publication: January 11th, 2016 by Entangled: Crush
Format: ebook
Source: ARC, Netgalley
Connect: Website | Facebook | Twitter

Updating best friend to girlfriend is more than a change of status…

Emma has been best friends with Eli since she moved to his neighborhood ten years ago. Tired of being cast in the role of the girl next door, Emma creates a fake Facebook profile in the hopes of starting an online friendship with Eli, which would hopefully lead to more. Like...way more. From friend request to In a Relationship--it all seemed so completely logical when she'd planned it.

Eli can't figure out what Emma is up to. He’s pretty sure she's the one behind the Facebook profile, but then again, why would she do something so drastic instead of just admitting she wants to be more than friends? And who the heck is this new guy he saw her with? Eli starts to think that just maybe...he missed his chance with the girl next door.

Two best friends, one outlandish ruse. Their status is about to become way more than It’s Complicated…

This Entangled Teen Crush book contains one fake Facebook profile, two best friends who secretly crave each other, and a dreaded sex talk with parents…boy crush in the room included. Pushing a relationship beyond the friend zone has never been so crazy…

I was intrigued to read this book after reading the blurbs. It sounds interesting and I expect that the story was going to be funny. Besides, I really wanted to know how Emma's plan to win Eli with this fake profile will go. 

Emma has been best friends with Eli for a long time, and she wanted to be more than his friends. So, she created a fake Facebook profile, and role play as 'Kelli' and hope to start an online friendship with Eli. But things didn't really go as the way she planned, when Emma was caught in her own lies.

The Girlfriend Request was written in both Emma and Eli's point of view. I quite like that, since I get to know what they both are thinking about each other. I have to say that I'm not really a fan of Emma. I know that she has her own insecurities, and sometimes, the insecurities led her to do something stupid. There are times when I could understand why she do what she did, but most of the times, I get frustrated with her decision, especially when she decided to play the jealous game, by going out with her fake boyfriend, Jake. I like Eli more than Emma. At least he didn't try to pull something stupid as Emma. 

I definitely enjoyed the minor characters more than the major one. I love how Sarah, Emma's friend, tried to talk some sense into her. And I love how Emma's parents can be embarrassing and supportive of their daughter.

The Girlfriend Request can be straightforward and predictable, but it is definitely an enjoyable, light read. I enjoyed reading about Emma and Eli's friendship, and how they grew to be something more. There are some funny moments, and teen angst. I would definitely recommend this to those who were looking for a light, teen reads.

I received a copy of this book from the author/Netgalley/publisher in exchange for my review

Review: Heart Conditions by Phoebe Fox

Heart Conditions (The Breakup Doctor #3)
by Phoebe Fox

Genre: Romance, Chick Lit, Humor
Publication: February 9th, 2016 by Henery Press
Format: ebook
Source: ARC, NetGalley
Connect: Website | Facebook | Twitter | Goodreads

Breakup Doctor Brook Ogden has spent the last year sifting through the fallout from the disastrous decision that led to her unconscious uncoupling with boyfriend Ben Garrett. Despite advising her clients you can’t be friends with an ex, she and Ben have somehow begun to stitch together a friendship—one Brook hopes is slowly turning into more. That is, until Ben introduces his new girlfriend, Perfect Pamela, a paragon of womanly virtues who is everything Brook is not.

While Brook navigates her newly volatile emotional life, an unwelcome surprise shows up on her doorstep: the ex-fiancé who broke her heart two years ago—one month before their wedding. Between her ex’s desire to rekindle their attachment, her best friend Sasha’s unexpected crisis, and her own unsquelchable feelings for Ben, Brook finds herself questioning the personal progress she’s made in the last two years—and threatened with the highest-stakes Breakup Doctor failures she’s ever faced.

Breakup Doctor, Brook Ogden is back with another story after her disastrous relationship in the previous book. Brook and Ben are no longer together after what happened between them, but that didn't stop them from being friends. Only that, Brook was hoping for something more, until Ben introduced her to his new girlfriend, Pamela, who seems so perfect. Brook received another surprise when her ex-fiance, the one who broke her heart years ago, just one month before their wedding, showed up in her life. 

Wow! I have to say that I like the series a bit more. The Breakup Doctor series is getting better and better after each book. The story is growing up on me, and so did Brook. I really enjoyed watching the character development in the book. Brook is certainly more matured. I'm really happy that Brook's ex made an appearance in this book. It's nice to see how they resolved whatever it was between them. And I'm glad that this time, I didn't have much urge to strangle Brook for whatever she always do to her relationship. I love the bits of romance in the book, both with the main and supporting characters. They were really nice and sweet. And I love how the story ended in this book.

Heart Condition is definitely a fun and entertaining read. I definitely enjoyed this thoroughly. If you have read the previous two books from the series, you wouldn't want to miss this one.

I received a copy of this book from the author/NetGalley to provide an honest review.

Review: How to Lose a Bachelor by Anna Banks

How to Lose a Bachelor
by Anna Banks

Genre: Romance, Contemporary, Chick Lit, Humor
Publication: November 9th, 2015 by Entangled Publishing, LLC (Bliss)
Format: ebook
Source: ARC, NetGalley
Connect: Website | Facebook | Twitter | Goodreads

When Rochelle Ransom auditioned for the dating show Luring Love, she had big plans for winning the prize money to help her favorite charity–and if she won the hot bachelor's heart, even better. But at the last minute she finds out the hot bachelor is her ex-boyfriend, Grant Drake. Desperate to keep her distance from him, she'll do anything–and everything–to get voted off.

Years ago, Rochelle broke Grant’s heart, and he's out for revenge. There's no way he'll vote her off.

After all, vengeance is a dish best served red-hot...and on live television.

When her hilarious antics to get kicked off the show escalate, Grant’s reminded why he fell in love with her the first time. Now he isn't sure which might be more fun... Seeing how far Rochelle is willing to go to get away or how far he will to keep her forever

Rochelle auditioned for a dating show called 'Luring Love' to win the money prize for charity. But when she found out that the bachelor was no other than her ex-boyfriend, Grant Drake, she wanted off the show. But the producer made a deal--if she stays on the show, she'll get the money no matter what. Even if Grant votes her off during the first episode. Of course, Rochelle saw this opportunity to get her payback to Grant.

I used to watch a few shows of The Bachelor (and other reality shows of that sort) during my younger days, so when I saw the blurbs, I know that I wanted to read this.. How to Lose a Bachelor is a light, fun, romantic read. I enjoyed it from the beginning. There were lots of laugh-out-loud moments as Rochelle attempts to make Grant vote her off the show was hilarious. And Grant's attempt to win Rochelle back, even if it started off as his way of revenge, was sweet. Most of all, I enjoyed the producer's tactics and game to try and make Rochelle stay, and Grant for not trying to vote Rochelle off the show, even if it was for the ratings. Rochelle and Grant's attempt to get payback to each other however, went off when they reconnected and realized what went wrong with their previous relationship. 

This was such an enjoyable read. I love the story line and the little drama, and was glad that there were no angst. There are humorous moment as well as sweet and heartwarming ones. I love how the story was written, and the sweet endings. I definitely enjoyed reading How to Lose a Bachelor. I would recommend this to fans of romantic-comedy.

I received a copy of this book from the author/publisher/NetGalley in exchange for my review.

Review: Gears of Brass Anthology by Jordan Elizabeth Mierek and More

Gears of Brass Anthology
by Jordan Elizabeth Mierek, Eliza Tilton, Heather Talty, Susan Kaye Quinn and More

Genre: Anthologies, Fantasy, Romance, Steampunk
Publication: November 9th, 2014 by Curiosity Quills Press
Format: Kindle Edition
Source: ARC, NetGalley, Own

A world like ours, but filled with gears of brass, where the beating heart is fueled by steam and the simplest creation is a complex clockwork device.

Within this tome, you’ll find steampunk fairy tale re-tellings, as well as original stories that will send your gears turning.

Welcome to the steampunk realm, with eleven authors guiding your path. Within the pages, you’ll come across clockwork inventions and steampunk-ified fairy tale retellings. Eleven authors will guide you through worlds filled with airships, top hats, and corsets.

I received a copy of Gears of Brass through NetGalley, but only for the first chapter, A Clockwork Dollhouse by Jordan Elizabeth. I enjoyed the first story, and bought a copy to read other stories. 

Gears of Brass was a collection of fifteen stories. Each story in this anthology is unique in a different characters, plots and writing style. There are some really good stories that I really enjoyed and some that was quite okay, and some that wasn't so great. There are stories that made me wanting to read more. The Key Girl by Grant Eagar for example made me wish that there are continuation to the story. 

I've experienced a lot in this book. There is a bit of romance, mythologies, murder, mystery and so much more! My favorite stories from Gears of Brass would be A Clockwork Dollhouse by Jordan Elizabeth, A Princess Zephris by Heather Talty, My Golden Anabel by Natalia Darcy and Time Spun Souls by S.A.Larsen.  

If you're looking for a light and short read with the element of Steampunk and fantasy, this is the book for you. And if you never read any Steampunk read, and would like to give the genre a try, I would definitely recommend Gears of Brass.

Review: Breakaway by Kat Spears

Breakaway
by Kat Spears

Genre: Contemporary, Friendship, Romance, Young Adult
Publication: September 15th, 2015 by St. Martin's Griffin
Format: ebook,
Source: ARC, NetGalley
Connect: Twitter | Goodreads

When Jason Marshall's younger sister passes away, he knows he can count on his three best friends and soccer teammates--Mario, Jordie, and Chick--to be there for him. With a grief-crippled mother and a father who's not in the picture, he needs them more than ever. But when Mario starts hanging out with a rough group of friends and Jordie finally lands the girl of his dreams, Jason is left to fend for himself while maintaining a strained relationship with troubled and quiet Chick. Then Jason meets Raine, a girl he thinks is out of his league but who sees him for everything he wants to be, and he finds himself pulled between building a healthy and stable relationship with a girl he might be falling in love with, grieving for his sister, and trying to hold onto the friendships he has always relied on.

A witty and emotionally moving tale of friendship, first love, and loss, Breakaway is Kat Spears at her finest.

I think I've been reading a few books with the main character dealing with loss, recently. In Breakaway, Jason was grieving over his younger sister. It wasn't easy with his grieving, mother and a father who wasn't really in the picture. Thankfully, Jason had his friends with him, Mario, Jordie and Chick. But their friendship soon went astray when Mario started to hang out with his new friends, and Jordie got himself a girlfriend. Then, Jason met Raine, a girl who was out of his league on a double date with Jordie. I think, the story reminds me to How to Be Brave by E. Katherine Kottaras.

If I have to judge the book by its cover, I wouldn't expect to read about dealing with loss, depression or drug addiction. But those are a few issues in Breakaway.

Kat Spears did a great job with writing Breakaway in Jason's point of view. The stories started out nicely, and I do enjoy reading about Jason and his friends. It was sad to see how they started to go apart, especially when Jason was dealing with his loss. The romance between Jason and Raine was alright. There are a few dramas, and sweet moments. I guess the Breakaway by Kat Spears was an alright read if it wasn't for the ending. I'm a bit dissatisfied with how the story ended. It didn't really resolve a lot issues in the book. It was so sudden and lazy.

I received a copy of this book from the author/publisher/Netgalley in exchange for my review.