Review: Book'em Piper

Book'em Piper by Danielle Norman
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

Note: An ARC was provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.

So let’s start.

Writing - It had me all in. I was completely engrossed in this story and couldn’t seem to stop, even close to pulling an all out-nighter for this.

Cover -Swooning hard, literally in love.

Romance -Scorching and so sweet at times. Literally my heart melted in a puddle during their romantic declarations.

Personalities of characters -Liam’s personality was done well, with him having an explanation for every action he took and for what he felt, making him an admirable and relatable character to relate to.

Piper’s personality sucked. Literally sucked. She was shown as a strong, able to handle emotions and was fierce and loyal and smart. But later on, she’s portrayed more as a dumb blonde and not knowing when to be smart with her situation around Liam. That was a massive reason why I was compelled to drop this book, to DNF it. I really can’t help but get irritated when authors make their characters look like they’re bipolar, are suffering from a personality disorder...sigh. Really a massive disappointment to all my hours wasted on this novel.

The summary was okay but still not enough to give it another star. As for the characters overcoming their problems, clearly they both need development emotionally and personality wise.

Overall it’s not a recommend.

Until the next page,

-J.B

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Review: Love Walks In

Love Walks In by Nina Lindsey
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

Note: An ARC was provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.

This book had such an interesting summary, so points to that. I loved it.

The personalities of the characters were relatable and boy could I feel their emotions all the way. Points to that too.

The writing even in third view point was done well. Most authors really cannot pull it off without mixing up their time and who they were giving a voice to. So points to that.

The romance however was too quick for my like. Already they begin developing feelings for each other and are acting like they are at the end of the book, rather than the start. That’s the reason I’d have to DNF this book, my patience really runs out when things are done too quick and underdone basically.

So not a recommend here. What a waste.

Until the next page,

-J.B

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Review: Broken Promises

Broken Promises by Aimee Noalane
My rating: 2 of 5 stars

Note: AN ARC was provided by the author in exchange of an honest review.

The cover -Pretty intriguing and mysterious, it had my attention the first time I looked at it. So points to it.

The summary -Sounded so intriguing to be honest and I was eager to find out how their story would go. Points to that too.

The writing was way too confusing for me. Past and present linked together, with the present mostly being focused on, even that was more like the future then the actual present.

The romance not so sure about, I mean there was a hint of chemistry in early chapters but not later on as far as I read.

The personalities, I wish were a bit more explained but maybe because I didn’t read too much, it could look to me as still in the dark about how they are.
So yeah, can’t comment too much.

So not a recommend because of the time lapse and whatnot.

Until the next page,

J.B

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Review: Decidedly With Love

Decidedly With Love by Stina Lindenblatt
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Note: An ARC was provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.

Cover -Swoon worthy, almost drooled over it.

The writing -Was bringing all of my emotions out, literally played them like guitar strings. My poor heart aches now...sigh.

The personalities of both the characters - So relatable, funny, and totally in sync with the story line and their end game. My heart literally cried at the end, wishing for more...

The summary -Frickin hilarious but a feel good one. Totally why I picked up, after the cover image hehe, guilty guys, guilty.

The romance and the overcoming of problems - The romance was so damn scorching and again drool worthy sigh, made me wish for a guy like Travis and to be the heroine like Emma. Sigh, my daydreams are officially clouded by these two. The problems overcoming them was done so realistic and heartwarming as they both overcame their personal demons and faced obstacles thrown their way together gracefully and successfully, cheering them on the whole time, haha.

So totally a high recommend. Really, I recommend it with all my heart, you will not be disappointed.

PS: That scene for the fundraiser, the guys. 😂😂😂. Oh I couldn’t stop laughing and wishing I was there. Dirty dancing soundtrack was definitely worth listening to with that scene.

So guys, again a high recommend. Don’t forget to add it!

Until the next page,

J.B

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Review: The Scene Stealer

The Scene Stealer by Renee Harless
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Note: I received an ARC from the author in exchange for an honest review.

Honestly this book had been good until some crap had ruined it.

But to be honest, the romance between the characters, the mystery behind their lives and how they overcame it, the plot itself, and the cover, all made it possible to rank it high as it could be.

I wish I could I say the same for the writing.

I think the author wrote the chapters a bit too long, and honestly the characters overcame the problems a bit too quick. I mean there are almost 10 chapters worth where the pages I read are useless as being mostly filler and getting it up to the steamy level they couldn’t before they’re supposed to get their HEA.

That ruined the rest of the story.

Things could have been done better overall for a better enjoyment, that’s my belief. It’s not a complete wreck, that’s the comfort from it.

So yeah, not a total train wreck but still.

Until the next page,

-J.B

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Review: Cyclone Fever

Cyclone Fever by Sally Morgan
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

A short, snappy and sweet story about a family surviving a cyclone.

Major points are for illustrations, family dynamics, cover, and the writing style.

They all contribute towards a specific age group and keep you invested even if you’re not from the middle grade category and also provide some information regarding disasters and listening to your elders about stuff like that.

PS: This was a free book my parents picked up through a shopping spree of sorts. So yeah, hence why I picked this up to read. And my first Australian Read, eeeh! Haha coincidence much on being in Australia and reading this, I think not. Fate. That’s all.

You’ll enjoy this short story for sure and even relate, possibly.

Until the next page,

-J.B

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Review: The Dugout

The Dugout by Meghan Quinn
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Note: I received an ARC from the author in exchange for an honest review.

Where do I start?

This book had EVERYTHING!

The chemistry -Scorching.

The friendships -Emotionally mushy.

The fights and overcoming them -Totally raging and so sweet and real and aaaaah, my heart....

The bonding -So swoon worthy.

The personalities -So damn RELATABLE.

The cover -Fanning myself.

The writing -Emotions Of every type flooded my heart, a rainbow crossing my heart tbh. I never recovered guys, never. Ever. Never.

Meghan Quinn has not disappointed with this first read of hers (for me it’s a first read, boy do I regret it now). Such fantastic writing compared with fantastic and relatable characters, scorching romance, relatable as hell emotions and situations, awesome background friends, the cover oh my god, SO FRICKIN AWESOME overall!

So I apologise for not believing people who worshipped the religion of Meghan Quinn. I’ve converted to her guys, so don’t worry. Hopefully this won’t be the last read of hers. Hurray! Can’t wait y’all.

Until the next page,

J.B

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Review: Nothing But a Dare

Nothing But a Dare by Molly O'Hare
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

Note: An ARC was given generously in exchange for an honest review.

This book was an okay book to read to be honest. Although I had to DNF halfway but still it was okay.

I think the plot line in itself was interesting although it’s been done several times but it was done well regardless. The characters weren’t bad either, I mean they each had their personality development done well, although the way they acted toward each other and generally was a bit too childish, leading to the main reason of me DNFing this book. But the banter was fun to read between the two and the issues were also addressed early on although I am sure they get resolved later on as I didn’t read far enough. The romance wasn’t bad either, with some very interesting thinking from Hunter but it was cute and sweet enough for me to root for them.

So overall, it’s a decent read but not a satisfactory one.

Until the next page,

-J.B

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Review: Lost Years

Lost Years by M.K. Schiller
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

Note: An ARC was given generously in exchange for an honest review.

I really don't know how to put this in a nice, professional review. But regardless, I will try.

The plot is really interesting with the main hero chasing after his dreams and what they meant. The hero was sweet, intelligent, and funny.

But I don't know, the story itself was very confusing to read. I mean I think it touched more on a sci-fi/fantasy level more and this way would have fit into a fantasy world rather than real life, as it just clashes badly with the storyline and what it's trying to communicate with dreams and hidden meanings, lost love and reconnecting with loved ones.

So the writing is well done, no errors grammatically, the characters are sweet and relatable mostly the guy, not the girl, the supporting characters were awesome such as the aunt and the sibling of the main hero, the romance was cute and sweet to a degree.

Overall this book isn't the best to read and neither do I recommend it on a high note but it is a tolerable read if you know what you're going into.

Until the next page.

-J.B (Reviewer)


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Review: Deliver

Deliver by Pam Godwin
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

It’s a late as hell review, but damn it’s just wow. It’s a pretty heavy book in terms of erotic, forbidden and etc romance, so you gotta have a tolerance for this stuff. But it’s enjoyable, the plot is intense but interesting, characters are witty but broken, and the romance is woaaah.

So a high recommend.

-J.B

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Review: Dirty Little Tease

Dirty Little Tease by Kendall Ryan
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

This book was actually pretty good.

For a very sexual book, it had its elements of humanity, discovering oneself, and a bit of first date like romance.

So really excited for the next book!

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Review: Because of Logan

Because of Logan by Erica Alexander
My rating: 2 of 5 stars

My opinion (In a rushed statement and in all truth): This book is not recommended at all.

There's no development, the characters just straight on fall for each other. There's no tension, no suspense, no building or budding romance.

It's just flat out lust.

There's no explanation on both main characters' lives.

So really this book is not recommended.

Hope you enjoyed my short and rushed review.

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Review: Dirty Rich

Dirty Rich by Amelia Wilde
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This has been a very good read.

Despite the light themes of BDSM, occasional steamy scenes, there has been time for other elements to be involved in the book too such as humanity, compassion, discovering oneself, romance and of course understanding yourself and someone else.

The author has managed to successfully snag all of these themes down in the book despite it being mostly overpowered with sexual content.

I hope to read more of this author's works in the near future.

-J.B

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Review: In Between Heartaches

In Between Heartaches by Amanda Cuff
My rating: 1 of 5 stars

Note: An ARC was given generously in exchange for an honest review.

I can’t with this book.

No really I can’t.

When a 27 year old grown woman acts like she’s 13 and a spoiled brat,in anger, instead of like a mature screaming adult, you bet my last dollar I will definitely DNF that book.

And that’s it. I’ve got no summary, no overall review. Just a note for the author.

Dear author of this obvious teenage YA Novel, even though it’s either contemporary or Adult actually: Please make sure your characters actually act their age, otherwise readers of any age will certainly flush this book down the toilet faster than you can say “Oh toodles!” (Yeah I love my Mickey mould references, fight me, heh).

Another disappointment down the toilet.

Until the next page,

-J.B

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Review: Vanquish

Vanquish by Pam Godwin
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Note: Vanquish is the second in the series, and should be read in order, as it gives more understanding to background context.

No ARC this time hahaha, sorry for the bombarding of ARCs on y’all.

Anyway review time.

So this story, oh gosh this story...

Is recommended more for 18+ but I am turning 18 in 5-6 months anyway heh, so doesn’t matter but for youngsters, be wary.

Touches on dark and mature topics such as agoraphobia, Stockholm syndrome, some serious graphic scenes of sexual activity, obsessions, and the list goes on so a warning to those who could be triggered or are sensitive to such themes.

This story is a romance, however erotic, new adult novel and it will definitely shove all the breath out of you and push all of your buttons sometimes for the good and sometimes for the worse.

I can’t even describe it properly. Its a spinoff from Deliver, the first book in series and it’s a spinoff for Van and Amber (neighbour to Liv and Josh after they move).

Their story is fucked up as hell, but the writing is well done as it encouraged me to continue reading, basically had me all in. It evokes emotions and a feeling of connectivity with the characters. The romance is scorching, whew it just had me hot all over, so no disappointment there, heh. The personalities of the characters are likeable and even if not always understandable, there’s enough reason and context as to why and how the character is, and they develop as well in time, to change for the better, without coming off too lengthy and boring. The plot line is also well written as the characters both try to deal with the situations they are in, learning a lot on their way and changing for the better. The messages shared are meaningful and relatable as conquering your personal demons day and night are not an easy feat and certainly you see that happening for the characters, kinda giving hope to the reader that maybe not all is lost and there is hope for the better.

So yes it’s a fucked up book, yes it’s mature, way beyond mature to be able to understand it at first glance, and the decisions often taken make you think what they were thinking while they had their say, but the author has managed to do it right and well, and I can say that I’ve never loved a book harder or connected more to than this novel RIGHt HEre.

So pick this novel up, you won’t regret it, I can say from my own take of this.

Until the next page,

-J.B

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Review: Dating Roulette

Dating Roulette by D. Kelly
My rating: 2 of 5 stars

Discussed Book review: The concept of this story is very interesting, which helped give this story one rating. The second star goes to the scorching romance between the two characters, like oooh-la-la romance shit, me heart just fainted at those. But the reason for less stars is because there are no problems shown between the characters or to the characters, everything is way too peaceful between them, now in any good novel, there are always some problems which show the characters overcoming them, but things here are just too nice, I can’t digest that. Another thing was that the background characters never showed up, like what about their families, friends? Only their friends showed up, their families seemed to be dead...? Final point is that I think things went a bit too quickly in terms of their romance and their declaration of love towards each other, in 4-5 chapters, they were convinced they were meant to be out of 20-chapter something Book.

Overall Book Review: This novel could have done better, in most words. Otherwise not a bad attempt per se.

Until the next page,

-J.B

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Review: All About You

All About You by Joanna Mazurkiewicz
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

I honestly don't know what to say in proper sentences.

But since I am writing this, I have to.

This novel wasn't great but not terrible either.

It was...good.

In the novel we have India, the main female protagonist going to her favorite uni: Braxton along with her rich, spoiled best friend Dora (reminds me of Dora the explorer).

Anyway...

In the university, we then meet Oliver, enemy of India and brother to India's previous ex-boyfriend (not on friendly terms as you can see) (who had made Oliver's life miserable in high school basically).

Anyway, Oliver, the male protagonist then plans revenge for what India did to him.

It's all going great but then you know things don't always go according to plan (especially when you used to have a thing for that same person)

They fall in love (at least India does) all over again but I told ya, things never do go to plan.

And so things once again shatter because of their misunderstanding.

So it's not really a great novel but good enough to read and finish through.

Cannot wait for the conclusion of this series (at least for this book).

Hope you enjoyed.

-J.B

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Review: Race You

Race You by Jolie Vines
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

Note: An ARC was provided generously in exchange for an honest review.

Sigh, this story was enjoyable but to a degree.

First off the plot is brilliant, that for once, only one protagonist is racing for promotion instead of both and it’s not the man, the man just wants the lady, heh. It went smoothly and I had one hell of a ride with it. The romance was cute and sweet, but damn sometimes the romance went to scorching levels heheh and I couldn’t help swooning, sigh...The characters were likeable as they both had hidden desires to do what they wanted but yet forced by their circumstances to do something they didn’t want to and they were adapting, had wonderful banter full of wit and fun, and a chemistry that couldn’t be denied and had personalities that could easily be related to.

But the bad parts were that the plot moved too quickly for my liking. Things shifted too quickly in terms of misunderstandings being cleared, admitting crushes, romance being declared for the two. The romance was slow at first, but then the girl was quickly sure she was in love with the guy, even though it’s only been 11 chapters out of 30+.

Only 11 chapters and she’s planning out their future like she knew it all along.

Sigh, why do authors bother writing 30 chapters in a book if their plot barely matches the pace of their outline for 30 chapters?

It’s a waste of my time to read something quick even though it’s a whole long novel written.

It’s a hard not recommend.

Until the next page,

-J.B

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Review: Bad Judgment

Bad Judgment by Meghan March
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Review:

Gosh I don’t know what to say.

This was an absolutely mind-blowing novel.

I mean you get to see the truth, logic, love, and steamy romance all rolled into one fantastic novel!

And Ryker and Justine’s chemistry was off the wall, I tell you. Just off the damn walls.

So here’s the rundown of things:

Justine Porter is a graduate law student who discovers that in her last year, they are sacking all the scholarships because the board cannot afford them anymore (or some other stupid reason).

And another problem is her friend Chad’s crash with another car, proven to be a drunk and even fired from his potential job.

Fate has been going against her wishes, clearly.

Now she has a dilemma, she either works at some strip joint like the Vu or she drops out of law school and gets some other job to pay her bills.

Well this author is not going to just sink her boat to the damn bottom is she now?

Of course not.

Enter Justice Jon Grant. Her former employee (from when she worked for him as a clerk) and judge, he gives her quite an interesting proposition.

Guess?

To tutor Ryker Grant, his son and the one person who’s been asking her out for 2 years and also rejected for 2 years.

Ah, definitely fate is cooking something good!

Anyway, she agrees at first thinking that she’s not going to fall in love with him and just be merrily walking down the street with cash and her heart intact.

Do you think that Fate always works in your direction?
WRONG!

Ryker, thinking he finally got accepted, starts courting her, romancing her and they fall in love after of course you know passing their midterms.

Because that was the deal maker!

But their story is far from over.

Betrayal, secrets, and lies spew out, coating everything in a foggy and chaotic mess.

Ryker finally discovers why Justine accepted him in the first place, how she is still at school, and Justine in the meanwhile discovers who exactly was responsible for her friend’s demise.

But despite all the negativity, they still come together and work things out like any couple would.

It’s one rollercoaster of a novel and you will not regret reading it, I completely assure you!

Before we finish, here’s a favourite quote of mine from the novel:

“I don’t hate you. Fuck, Justine, I’m in love with you. I could never hate you.”

And that quote is the ultimate reason to why you should absolutely read this novel.

Enjoy!

-J.B

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Review: Depraved

Depraved by Bella J.
My rating: 2 of 5 stars

Note: An ARC was given generously in exchange for an honest review.

Yup there I go again with the ARCs but they’re delayed as hell and I can’t help myself.

Whoops....but anyway. Let’s continue.

............

Sigh, I feel like my luck with ARCs being good stories to read is actually running out.

This one was no exception.

The summary: We first get a glimpse at our heroine Alyxandra (I don’t understand her name’s spelling, really I don’t) the police commissioner’s daughter, who has a troubled life with a control freak ex-ballerina mother and an overprotective and barely present father. She longs to be free from their protective ring and yearns to be independent and stable on her own.

Then we meet American street kings biker gang and their president, who seems to have kept the police all around on him on his payroll and has a vendetta against the rival bike gang.

Thugs kidnap the poor Alyxandra but she is luckily saved by the president of the American street kings.

But alas she’s still kidnapped.

Now trapped as their hostage, she tries to figure out how to break free from their hold and fight her attraction to the man who saved her life.

My view: The plot is fine. So is the star crossed lovers kinda romance at the beginning.

But then...some shit ruins it all for me. Let me spell it out for y’all.

First of all, what an idiot. Literally she doesn’t even realise the dangers of being a police commissioner’s daughter and still goes parading around at 11 in the night and getting a tattoo (I am not saying it’s bad, but what timing), just to be FREE from her parents.

Is that idiocy at the finest moment? Or maybe it’s me who’s being a fool.

Next idiotic thing that happens, is the girl thinks that things like kidnapping, being a hostage and getting harmed by thugs is something that happens to people who are not her.

Are you kidding me? Is she that brainwashed and privileged to not think that this could happen to her?

I can’t with this. Really I couldn’t.

So dnfing again.

So tired of this, literally I am.

Authors need to step up and stop sending us poor readers, shallow and brainwashed female characters.

The world, the book world would be such a better place if that happened. But alas, I can only dream.

Until the next page,

-J.B

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Review: I (One)

I (One) by Lana Sky
My rating: 1 of 5 stars

Note: An ARC was provided in exchange for an honest review.

First thing: Clearly I should have avoided this book when it said it was no good for under 18s since it involved gore, mature scenes, and what not.

But you know as an ARC reader, you have to read the novel since you have to review it honestly and promote it too, so there’s no going back.

Second fact: There is no indication or flashbacks to the previous book. So for me, be it as an ARC reader or a normal reader who’s never read the previous books, this creates problems to understanding the plot and the overall story set out for all books in series.

So the first fault was mine but the second, no one explained it. The plot seemed interesting enough with me getting through two pages of chapter 1 and preface.

That was it, especially after the ring finger scenario. Damn, was that horrible to read.

I don’t get why authors can’t just have like a mafia scene or feeling to the plot without going too much into gore, or extreme disfigurement of the character or their surrounding specifically? Kinda threw me off and put me off the book entirely.

So yeah, DNFing this book. Not a recommend.

Until the next page,

-J.B

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Review: I Bet You

I Bet You by Ilsa Madden-Mills
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Note: I got an ARC copy from the author in exchange for an honest review.

DAMN.....

Literally my first words when I read the first few sentences of the book.
I must confess I haven't read anyone like Penelope in any book.
And I must also confess that Ryker was almost like the cliched jock I had met in other books.

But for some reason, all I think is whew, what a rollercoaster ride I had with Penelope and Ryker.

We first meet Penelope sitting in a restaurant, a waitress, dreaming of a sea-filled steamy romance with a dashing pirate (like her rom-coms in her private stock) but each time, the pirate is someone she hates.

Oh such hate. And for that only one human being.

Ryker the god of good looks and absolute excellence in sports.

And then "garcon!" comes in. Literally. I tell you literally.

Clearly, people should have been able to tell the difference between a fille and garcon (a boy and girl). So should have Ryker. Clearly not.

She hates Ryker with passion and not only because of his chiselling good looks and god's gift to women (his thoughts and mine of course).

But soon, they become even closer with a bet in tow. A bet where he pushes her to woo her crush towards herself.

But it backfires and soon chemistry entails between them.

It is a test of faith and time and pressure from everyone else to hold and continue their romance and eventually belong to one another.

I seriously do recommend it.

Especially with witty dialogues, pages of steamy romance, and friends you will love to death, this is a roller-coaster filled romance that you absolutely will not forget or be able to ignore.

It is not a typical romance. Believe me, it is something far than that.

I hope you enjoy!

-J.B

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Review: Cold, Hard, & Heartless

Cold, Hard, & Heartless by M.V. Ellis
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This novel was just fantastic. Literally loveable and more than anything in the world.

This is after Catching London with Arlo's thoughts this time. Catching London revolves around London and her world solely.

Arlo and London have such chemistry, and there's no denial in it. At first glance Arlo knows that not just physically, there's more to London than what she looks like and he wants her enough to know her more. And knowing that they are meant to be together whether London believes it not is Arlo's mission.

Arlo and London are so suited for another despite their polar personalities such as Arlo being a no commited man in relationships and believing the worl is filled with crap. London, with her horrible singing (if you have read the novels, you know this is true) but ambitious, caring personality knows that there is some hope in the world.

Woah what polar opposities... and yet what a matching couple.

True to definition, even if London and Arlo (only in the beginning) ignore their chemistry, they know it's a thing which would either end up into flames or into a long-time bond.

In the novel, we meet Arlo as an exhausted, sarcastic, overworked member of the band Cold, Hard, Heartless who's just come back from a day of hard work and satisfying oneself (if you know what I mean).

And then suprisingly at the same time, meets London, um washing in his bathroom. Now, it is an interesting sight for Arlo as he confronts London who he has no idea, is his housekeeper.

Later on we get to meet Arlo's other relatives like his grandpa, his brother (his twin brother Luke (I think that's his name)) and others in the band.

He vows after a couple of meetings with London to convince her that they are meant to be together.

A very lovely read despite it being short but I am sure it will all conclude in Pushing Arlo.

Obstacles arise, pasts come to surface, and difficult feelings arise as both Arlo and London battle to keep their love alive in novels: Catching London (London's POV only), Cold, Hard, Heartless (Arlo's POV only) and Pushing Arlo (hopefully both London and Arlo's POV).

That said, this is an absolute recommendation if you love sarcastic, handsome rockstars or muscians, sassy but with horrible voices, positive heroines, and the comedic characters in the scenes behind the main characters.

It's a novel which you will not regret.

Enjoy! (If you do read it.)

-Javelyn Bond

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Review: The Best Kind Of Surprise

The Best Kind Of Surprise by Jasmin Miller
My rating: 1 of 5 stars

Note: This is the second novel in the series, should be read in order.
Another Note: An ARC was provided generously in exchange for an honest review.

This novel was not so much of a sham as compared to the previous novel. But still not that good to read, in my opinion.

My version of this story:

We get introduced to Aidan Ardennes, Logan Ardennes's brother and brother in law of Ember Keaton sitting in his brother's home, drinking to his sorrows. He thinks his manhood no longer works as he's no longer interested in one night stands, flings, etc. The apparent reason seems to be, that he's been hung up on a girl he had a fling with, a month before according to his brother. And he believes later on that the girl is his downfall, even though for me as a reader, that's just not true as she's just a fling.

But then he realizes that he may be in love with her, and this whole declaration is made in Chapter 1.

Chapter 1, out of 15 or so chapters!

It's too soon, which was one of the main reasons I couldn't be bothered reading this novel further. Another reason was then in Chapter 2, we are introduced to Stella, one of his flings from a month before, bearing bad news, which she then spills, which then in effect, rocks his world upside down.

And this is all declared in Chapter 2. Again waaaay too soon for my liking.

But you know love can never be evaded no matter what it is. And they eventually fall in love as they always do, a HEA once again.

My overall view of this story: Well the plot is not bad, it's more convincing then the first novel's plot summary, second there are things happening way too quickly for my liking which I've already discussed, no romance at all from what I've read but it could be justified from the romance being in further chapters, the witty dialogues from Aiden and Logan help to push to read the novel further, but otherwise, there's nothing better to save this novel from being an-almost sham.

Things could have seriously been done better, in this novel especially.

Until the next page,

-J.B

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Review: The Best Kind Of Mistake

The Best Kind Of Mistake by Jasmin Miller
My rating: 2 of 5 stars

Note: This is the first in the series, should be read in order to understand.
Another Note: I read this book in order to be able to understand the sequel.

Sigh where do I even begin with how much of a disaster this novel was?

But I'll start somewhere, promise.

My version of this story:

We first meet Ember Keaton and her discussion with her sister in regards to a new job, pulled by strings, how thankful she is, considering she lost her job recently. Probably was a lousy worker, anyhow..

She also has a neighbor who she can't help but listen to (not on purpose of course) which also causes her sleep problems. But he will be important later on, not right now.

She goes to her new job, and is immediately a success in it, alongside the owner's son Logan Ardennes. Soon chemistry beckons them closer, sparks fly and romance is declared for them.

Overall, it's a happy, snappy, and cute as hell novel but with some issues.

My overall view of this novel: Well the plot summary was good with the poor girl having to pay her bills and having to look for a new job, while the owner's son helps his mother after his mother suffers from back problems, and they are both working alongside and sparks develop as time progresses, the plotline worked. However I felt the romance was too quick and there weren't any issues shown between them or in their respective backgrounds, basically everything felt way too quick and perfect to be done, which kinda leaves you wondering what the next couple of chapters provide that 8 chapters already provided before. The witty dialogues were enjoyable to a degree, allowing me to push myself somewhat to continue with the novel until I couldn't. And the characters' overall personality were still underdeveloped as there wasn't anything relatable or emotional felt from them when reading.

So it's not as much of a sham, but things could have been done better.

Until the next page,

-J.B

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Review: Alpha Bully

Alpha Bully by Renee Rose
My rating: 2 of 5 stars

Note: An ARC was provided generously in exchange for an honest review.
Another Note: The age limit for reading this novel is 18+ as it touches on mature topics and ideas.

“She’s mine to torment and I’m going to enjoy the f*&k out of it.” (Cole Munchmore, sounds like a breakfast cereal name combined with a biker gang first name, but whatever).

And torment he did, especially me from reading this novel. Moving on....

My version of this story:

We first meet our heroine Bailey, who's an outcast at her school, Wolf Ridge High and is also afraid of driving, god knows why.

She's late to school and asks her next door neighbor Cole if he can drive her there. Cole is our resident star football player and jerk to Bailey ever since she transfers to their school. He says no and makes fun of her, etc, etc.

Next thing you know, She reaches school anyway through the help of a junior and befriends her. We get both Bailey's and Cole's view in the four chapters I read, each having their own view on the same situation and progress forward to more moments between Bailey and Cole, the secret Cole hides and his own anguish over his father losing his job, all these problems are answered as the chapters flow on and on.

Cole hates her guts because her mom took his dad's job away.

BUT...

The impressive fact is she has no idea that her mom even took Cole's father's job, resulting in his family being disturbed and his ever growing vengeance against her and her family, she thinks it's his idea of a good time, by almost humiliating her in the entirety of the school.

This is like some twisted-up romeo, Juliet shit but with a plot-twist and not in a good way at all.

But yada yada yada, they fall in love and he forgets to make her pay, etc, etc. A HEA for them, hurrah..

My overall opinion on this story: The plot line was all good, taking revenge, wolves, romance, teenage angst, all my favorite shit. But the characters are terribly under-developed, the supporting characters do a better job of leading the story then the main ones such as for example when Cole and his father are fighting, she comes in and tries to help them apart.

Let's look at the facts and then this statement again.

Facts: Cole HATES her guts because Bailey's mother took his father's job.

The statement: Bailey tries to help by pushing Cole and his father apart from their fight.

Do you see what I am talking about now?

No?

Let me explain then.

You never try to help someone who should be handling their shit in their own home rather than making a public scene outside, unless you really prefer bruises for two weeks straight. Second is you don't interfere in your enemy's business, again this is the SAME PERSON who's made sure to wreck your school life and you HELP THEM? SERIOUSLY?

Who in their right mind helps their enemy? No, tell me, who?

This was one of the reasons why I dropped this novel, second was the fact that she's such a weak character in some situations. Such as if she so badly wanted to be a saint and help Cole and his father, she could've relied on his family or neighborhood watch team. But she does neither, instead running inside her home like a 13 year old who's just seen a horror movie and can't remove the image of the killing out of their mind.

Sigh, character development was the main reason why I felt like dropping this novel and pretending I never read this novel in my life. Otherwise, the romance, the plot, was pretty good which helped me read 4/14 chapters of this book.

It's a definite NOT RECOMMENDED novel after this overall honest review.

Until the next page,

-J.B

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Review: Ruckus

Ruckus by L.J. Shen
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Note: I had to stop a few times while reading this, as time and finding this book online made it difficult to finish it sooner.

But Enjoy.

“Because I had to sell it and lost a shit-ton of money the moment I realized you were going to be my neighbor if I stayed in my current place. Real talk, Rosie, you are all I ever wanted. Even when you wanted me to be with your sister. She was a comforting candle. You were the dazzling sun. I’d lived in the dark—for your selfish ass. And if you think I’m going to settle for something, you’re dead wrong. I am taking everything. We will have kids, Rose LeBlanc. We will have a wedding. And we will have joy and vacations and days where we just fuck and days where we just fight and days where we just live. Because this is life, Baby LeBlanc, and I love the fuck out of you, so I’m going to give you the best one there is. Got it?” (Dean Cole, my next of favorites from all Hotholes, heh).

Dean, Dean, Dean. Your love is so adorable to see for Baby le Blanc, which gets me all teary-eyed, and shit ya know. God damn both of you.

Anyway, let's move on...

My short and sweet version of this story:

Dean Cole is another infamous hothole who's a known Casanova and ex-boyfriend of Emilia Le Blanc aka Cherry Blossom. His surefire confidence yet charming southern behavior are often what get him the girls and the respect of elder ladies, and is often the boy scout of all the hotholes combined when ya want the gentleman from them all.

Rosie Le Blanc aka Baby Le Blanc is something different, a polar opposite of Dean. While he keeps his problems in check, she's a spitfire known for stinging remarks and a look of pure innocence even when there is a begging devil inside especially dealing with Dean and her family. Her love for Dean is known, even as she is the ever-saint in pushing Dean and Emilia together in the past.

Fun times.

Anyway...

Obviously there is some tension left between Rosie and Dean, despite Dean being with Emilia.

But the past is always a pain, no matter what. And it always comes to bite you back in the process.

Warning: A Spoiler or two. Whoops, sorry.

Fastforwarding to 10 years later and Dean is still the infamous casanova but a gentleman. Rosie has changed into a permanent spitfire and rebel and lives in the building owned by Dean. Vicious is now getting happily married to Emilia.

Everyone's all happy and dandy until Rosie's asked to come to rehearsals for Emilia's wedding.

Dean's instructed by Vicious in a polite tone (oh who am I kidding, he's obvs saying it in his own style) to bring Rosie to the rehearsal at any cost.

Problem numero uno is: Rosie still hates Dean's guts and is not exactly fond of being with him (cause of the sparks heheheh) and Dean still wants her, future and all even if she doesn't.

Problem numero dos: Rosie doesn't have a lot of time to spare. (If read vicious, you'll know).

But geez, haven't we learned already that love cannot be thrown off by a curve produced by destiny? So Baby Le Blanc in this way is meant to be with Dean "Ruckus" Cole, no matter what.

My general view of this story:

The writing is once again brilliantly executed with a plot that's quick and to the point, there is maturation and plenty of choices made by the characters but each time growth occurs changing the characters in many ways, but always for the good. Plenty of plot-twists, which will certainly make you WOAH! (and in capital letters obviously), solving plenty of questions in regards to Dean's life (whoops another spoiler, sorry y'all), romance is afloat with all the hotholes and their gals, and meaningful messages shared with trusting your life and making the most of it, and never to be afraid of destiny and life itself.

This is a MUST to be read.

Go on, take it and read. Make life more enjoyable for yourself.

Until the next page, my baby le blancs,

-J.B

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