Review-Child Of Stone (Shardwell Series 3)

Title: Child of Stone (Shardwell Series book 3)

Authors: A. Gerry & C. Hall

Rating: 5/5

Summary
I was engineered for war.
As an elite soldier of the Blended Coalition, I go where they tell me. I don’t ask questions. The mission. That’s all there is.
But somethin’s changing’. Gods and magic? That skrit makes my head hurt. Things aren’t what I fraggin’ thought they were—or was told. 
Turns out the Coalition is rotten from the inside. Orders don’t make sense. I feel doubt in my gut. Now I’m stuck, tryin’ to decide what to do.
But somehow, I got the feelin’ that I ain't gonna get a choice anyway.

My Review
I received a paperback copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. I was also sent book one and two and I instantly fell in love with this series and I was very very very excited to read this installment, and in true form the authors did not disappoint and I love love loved this book and it has become my absolute favorite of the series and also my favorite of the year (of which I include 2013 cause it is early 2014). I really can not express how perfect this book is, it had everything anyone could love in a book and then a little extra, just because that's how awesome these authors are both in imagination and writing style. If you have not read this series it should be a must read for all, and if anything you should at least read this one but the whole series is fantastic and well worth the read. *This may contain spoilers*
So when I first started this book I was a little confused I mean book 2 left off in a whole other land and now we are in space with sexy Lieutenant Lance Kyleren a GAEL VIC soldier with bonded living tech that makes him a super soldier, well thank goodness the confusion was short lived as I was quickly sucked into Kyleren's world and then rewarded with the return of Raeylan and Margariete, I was so glad to see them return and even more entertained by the beautiful execution of how each character interacted and had their fates entwined.
I love the idea of the struggle between peoples belief in science and uncertainty of magic, but unknown to many it may really be one in the same:
"Gene snorted. Margarite called it magic; he called it science. So was he proving that magic was a force of reality? Or was he merely reclassifying that power into a branch of science? The paradoxical nature of the argument made him cringe. Perhaps it didn't matter. His art was of discovery. to define truths that could be classified, organized and manipulated."
It was so fun to watch them struggle with what they were told and what they were witnessing, we could all use a little belief in magic.
I loved how detailed and imaginative this world was, the fantastic mix of mythology, Scientific advancement, and magic was very captivating and I am in such awe of how wonderfully this world was built and how perfectly the story was executed around it. From the bottom of my heart I hope there will be more to this series and soon because I am even more excited about the journey yet to come for LAMIE and her crew of misfits ready to take on Kirion and save the Shards.
As happy as I was to have the return of Reaylan and Margariete since they stole my heart in book one, I was so excited for the addition of Lance Kyleren, I mean yes Raeylan is cute in his brooding protective way, but I loved Kyleren's wit and his strong personality that was able to match that of Margariete, I really hope that she will finally let down her guard and let Kyleren in they need each other even of they don't know it yet. The supporting cast of characters was also great but how could I expect anything else :). I found a particular interest in LAMIE the adolescent ship that was more a part of the crew than some of the Aon squad. She had a very interesting personality and a loyalty that I never really expected.
The depth of the underlying plot of this story is so perfectly written that I am so happy to be along for the ride. The complexity of the shards, the fracture, and the fight to prevent Kirion from attending his God like status over all the shards it is so easy to fight for their success, I could not ask for any more out of this book or series except that is continue forever and ever, and after reading this book I have decided I will fins a way to fit in re reading this series because it is so worth another go round. I love this book I love this series and I hope with all my heart more people discover this series and it gets the credit it deserves.

Blog Tour Review- ARV-3 by Cameo Renae

Title: ARV-3

Author: Cameo Renae

Genre: YA post-Apocalyptic/dystopian

Release Date: November 26, 2013

Tour Host: Lady Amber's Tours

Rating: 5/5

 

Summary

 

June 6 1024: The beginning of the end. The Apocalypse.

A nuclear fallout wiped out every living thing on the planet, except for a few thousand of us who took shelter in underground bunkers across the globe. Now, after thirteen long years, we were finally able to return to the topside to begin to rebuild.

We thought we were alone. We were never more wrong.

Before the fallout, scientists had worked on creating an anti-radiation vaccine (ARV). The first two attempts failed, but despite the incomplete tests and results, the government approved and distributed the third serum to the masses in an effort to aid those who had no shelter.

It worked, keeping those who remained on the topside alive, but it also altered and mutated them. This new and infectious threat had completely outnumbered us. Now, we not only had to rebuild our planet. We would have to fight for it.

My name is Abigail Park. I’m seventeen, and this is my story.

My Review
 I received this book from the author for an honest review as part of a blog tour/blitz.
 This book was not at all what I expected and I mean that in the best possible way. I went into this book thinking I knew what would happen, but I had no idea what I was in for. This book was so full of excitement I has a hard time putting it down and I was very shocked when it was over, I was so invested and I was left hanging by the way, I just could not believe my journey in this world had come to an end, lets just say I needed a few minutes to recover.
 I really liked the bond and sense of family that the members of Abi's original hive had, and it was very interesting to see how after 13 years around the same group of people and shut off form the world adjusted to a much larger space and group of people. That also brings me to say that I am very suspicious of "the white city" and  hope that as a family Abi's hive will figure out what the heck is going on there. I was very blind sided by a certain political figure, I thought he was a good guy, but apparently I was very very wrong.
Cameo Renae created a very interesting post-Apocalyptic world and the idea behind the Arvies (which you need to read about to realise just hoe genius this is) was so cool and fresh in a world filled with zombie Apocalypse stories.
"They were akin to zombies, except the Arvies hadn't died. They still had a heartbeat, and blood flowing through their veins. They were still very much alive."
I am still thinking about them I feel bad, yet they are trying to extinguish the human race, I think that it is very sneaky and smart giving the reader a soft spot for the enemy. Not only did she create a great and terrible world she also created great and terrible characters, I was angry with some, some made me smile, and on more than one occasion I was made to cry. Abi was a great main character she was strong willed, loyal, and had great wit, but she did tick me off with her quick and awful decision with Finn, but thank goodness she came to her senses. Finn wow what do I say....can I please have one???, he was strong, brave, funny and if I'm correct by the image in my head he is insanely HOT!
There were so many other great characters on both the side of good and evil and even the unknown side. So read this book and discover them all.
After reading this book and loving the style I will for sure be making time to read the Hidden Wings series also written by Cameo Renae because I really love her style.

About The Author

My family is what keeps my heart beating, and my world a happy place to be.

I love reading great books that whisk me away from reality, even if for a little while :) Writing is my passion. I love creating new worlds and new characters, and taking wondrous adventures with them.
In my Dreams & Hidden Wings were both recently published through Crushing Hearts and Black Butterfly Publishing.
One day I will find my magic wardrobe....and ride away on my magical unicorn...until then...I'll keep writing!:)

website: http://www.cameorenae.com/
blog:http://cameorenae.blogspot.ca/
Twiter: @CameoRenae
Buy Link: http://www.amazon.com/ARV-3-The-After-Light-Saga-ebook/dp/B00GWTXJH4/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1388598307&sr=8-1&keywords=ARV-3

Blog Tour Review- Copied

Title: Copied

Author: S.M. Anderson

Publisher: Curiosity Quills

Release Date: December 11

Genre: YA Science Fiction

Target Audience: 14 and up

Distributor: Ingram

Rating: 4.5/5

Summary

Adopted off the black market, Alexander Mitchell, has no idea his DNA is copyrighted and property of military weapons giant Texacom Defense. Nor that his DNA is being used to develop an army of clones. When the company discovers he was not properly disposed of 17 years ago, they send an assassin copy,
BETA23, to terminate Xan and cover it up After he narrowly escapes BETA23’s first attempt, Xan teams up with Lacey, a genetically engineered genius he’s surprised to find common ground with— only they’re awkward together. Half of the time she stares at Xan like the science project he is and the other half…let’s just say Xan can’t keep his eyes off her lips. When they manage to capture a company copy by luck and sheer stupidity on Xan’s part, Lacey is determined to see the good in their prisoner to the point she believes BETA23 can be persuaded to give them the intelligence they need to keep the company forever off Xan’s back. Xan’s not sure if he can trust the darker version of himself, not when it means gambling with the lives of his family and the possibility of losing Lacey.

Copied will find a home in the hearts of readers who enjoyed Divergent and the
TV show Heroes. The novel contains enough action to engross male readers with a
romantic subplot that will captivate the fairer sex. Although Copied’’s main target
audience is teenagers the core of the story deals with ethical dilemmas that will trigger
a crossover appeal to more mature readers.

My Review

 I received this book from the author in exchange for an honest review as part of the blog tour. 
When I first started this book I was not sure if I would like it or not, but with a crazy cool concept I was on board I was also pulled it with its informative nature and the deep thoughts this book made me have. The moral dilemma of cloning and genetic enhancement was definitely addressed in this book and I think it was done beautifully with the contrast of Xan and Beta, their differences were by no means physical or genetic but they were so different I had to remind myself they were both copies form the same DNA. I absolutely loved the moral dilemma and the depth of the story that had me in constant thought and I would have given it 5 stars, but something about the ending felt rushed and has me feeling left without true closure. But now I want to tell you the many reasons I enjoyed this book and why I think many others will too.
 Of course the issue of clones and "playing God" has been brought to every ones attention, but what I really liked about this book was it's complex simplicity, and yes that is an oxymoron so let me explain. There is obviously a lot of science and medical jargon involved in this idea and I have sometimes felt talked down to when reading books with such content, well not in this book the author found a way to speak to me on my level but still include the complexity of the explanation attached to cloning and genetic altering.
You would think having two characters with the same DNA would be repetitive, well you would be wrong. I think this book this book proved that a lot of who we are is based on our environment and the choices we make:
 "Brought up as he had been on the training compound, it was guaranteed that he would reach his potential. With parents, it was like throwing a pair of dice." (Beta)
I found myself attached to both Beta and Xan for different reasons and I also felt sorry for both of them for very different reasons, but the one thing they did have in common was how much I really wanted them to be able to find themselves and be happy with that person they find, I believe they both deserve that.
"His stomach twisted into knots as Xan staggered back toward the door. I am the monster" (Xan)
"Beta swallowed hard. He had never regretted hurting someone before." (Beta)
They both struggled so much with who they were and who they might be becoming, they had so much growth throughout this book I was glad for who they had become by the end and I hope they both will finally find freedom.
This book really had my wheels turning, and I really enjoyed the action, intelligence, and depth. I think lovers of Sci-fi, adventure, and mystery would enjoy this book and who doesn't enjoy those things so I suggest you read it ASAP.

Author Bio

S. M. Anderson (Sarah Anderson) was born in Lima, Peru. She has lived in seven different countries, on five continents, and speaks a smattering of languages. As a child and even young adult, writing and reading were

difficult for her, so difficult that she received extra help outside the classroom and was diagnosed with a learning disability. However, she always loved stories, especially ethnic folktales from the countries she lived in. It was the desire to create stories of her own that fueled her determination to overcome the challenges that came with writing. She has a BA in Art Education from BYU, with a minor in Russian, and a love of power tools. She has a growing family of three kids and currently lives in Springville, Utah.

This is by far the coolest thing I have seen...They need to do this with more books I LOVE IT!!!!!!!!

Blog Tour Promo and Excerpt- Non Fric-tion

Title: Non Fric-tion

Author: Morgan Parker

Genre: Romance Horor

Tour Host: Lady Amber's Tours

Summary:

After 12 years, 4 months and 1 and 1/2 weeks of marriage, his wife packs up and leaves with their daughter. So he writes an Indie novel. And it becomes a bestseller. Well, sort of. 
His fame brings him the lifestyle of a rockstar, and he has the fan mail (i.e. female undergarments, probably clean) to prove it. 
But seeing his fame, his wife suddenly believes in marriage counseling. Their homework: to create something beautiful for each other. 
So he writes Our Story, his literary secret-weapon that will win his wife back. But in the process he discovers that true love is more than just ticking the right boxes on a checklist..

Excerpt

Holding her always felt perfect, but at that moment it felt like pure heaven. She fit in my arms, she fit against my chest, she fit into my soul. When she breathed I breathed (okay neither of us had stopped breathing, but I swear if she had stopped, at that moment, I would have died right along with her).

"Emma" I said, using my chin to nudge her and force her eyes toward mine. I didn't want to use my hands to guide her because that would mean releasing her. And I refuse to do that, I refuse to let go.

Author Bio

Morgan Parker is the pen name for a shy and introverted banker. He currently divides his time between Toronto, Canada and his imagination. When he isn't writing or working with clients or relaxing at Balzac's with a medium non-fat cappuccino. Morgan Parker enjoys spending time with his family. And sleeping, preferably on a bed (the left side) but depending on the day, he can pretty much curl up anywhere. No, he is not currently accepting applications for cuddling partners...

He loves interacting with bloggers, readers, and fans, and if you consider yourself one of those, you can reach him through his facebook page. Although he doesn't particularly enjoy interacting with people who yell at him, he is always happy to chat with anyone especially if their criticism will help with his writing. So next time you're on Facebook, look for Morgan Parker and like his author page!

Links

Facebook: https://facebook.com/morgan.parker.books

Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/6857154.Morgan_Parker?from_search=true

Twitter: @mparkerbooks

Review- Silent Orchids (The Age of Alandria 1)

Title: Silent Orchids

Author: Morgan Wylie

Series: The Age of Alandria book 1

Rating: 5/5

Summary
A dying realm.
The ancient evil of the Droch-Shúil has been unleashed. 
The Orchids have been silenced… but for how long?
Daegan, elite of the Ferrishyn warrior tribe of Faeries, is charged with a mission to find the Sol-lumieth, a mysterious new power that could change the fate of all in the realm of Alandria. But he is conflicted by his purpose, and he cannot trust the motives of those he serves. He has too many questions and they must be answered.
Kaeleigh, a girl abandoned as a small child just outside Missoula, Montana, is now 18. She is trying to discover who she is and where she belongs. In her heart, she feels she has family out there… somewhere. Desperate to unravel the mysteries of her past, she embarks on a journey that will forever change her along with her two best friends, Finn and Chel—who have secrets of their own.

My Review
This was book of the week for my book group and I got it free on amazon (not free in Canada at the time of review, but free on Kobo)and let me tell you, you need to get a copy cause you will enjoy yourself I know I did. This book was a fantastic tale of Faeries, Elves, Shifters, a dying land, and that lands last hope a young girl who is not what everyone expected but may just turn out to be exactly what they need. Now if that doesn't sound awesome then go away cause this review is not for you cause I loved it and I am about to rave about it.
I have read my fair share of Faerie stories some containing Elves and Shifters as well like this one but not all, most of the stories are the classic summer court, winter court thing and truth be told I am a little over it, but that's what is so great about this book it is not that at all it is it's own unique take, and no this is not the only one with the difference I have read and enjoyed others (Mark of the princess for example) but this this book is now in the top of my fantasy list because I love how much thought the author put into this world, it's history, and the history of the different races and creatures that live within the world. I feel like I only got a glimpse of what was and what may come to be and my only complaint is the amount of secrets, not that people had them cause everyone does but that they would not share, it made me frustrated but I hope when I read on in the series I get the answers I seek.
The love able group of four were easy to get attached to and root for, but I am also a little suspicious based on all the secrets and unknown factors. I am very curious about Kaeleigh and I feel for her, wanting to know who and what she is while also trying to keep faith in her loved ones that they have her best interests at heart. I love her spunk and bravery, I am as anxious as she is to find answers, with Fin, Chel, and Daegan to help her I think, no I know she will be safe if not stumbling along a bit on her way. Daegan that big sexy mystery I want to know what his deal is and why he is so connected to Kaeleigh, I'm not sure I totally trust him I know he wants to protect her but I can't stop thinking about the crazy Queen, I hope his feeling for Kaeleigh win. Fin may be moody and secretive but I think I like him more, I believe his motives and trust he will do his best to be a protector. Everyone needs a best friend like Chel and I can't wait to learn more about her past and her gifts.
I bought book two when I was 80% done this one, cause I knew I would have to continue on, so it's on to book two and as I do I hope people are picking up this one and starting this fun and exciting series.
Also I really must mention that I love love love this cover it is very beautiful.

Blog Tour Review- Muse (descended From Myth book 1)

Title: Muse

Author: Erin McFadden

Tour Host: Lady Amber's Reviews

Rating: 5/5

Summary
The Brotherhood of the Guardians has existed for thousands of years to serve a single purpose: the protection of Talents, the mortal descendants of the original nine Muses. 

Twenty-one year-old Daniel Lyoncourt has trained his entire life to join the Guardians. Daniel is prepared to risk his life in order to keep his Talent safe, but when he's assigned to nineteen year-old Anna Saint-James, he discovers that his life isn't the only thing he could lose. Anna has no idea how special she is and knows nothing about her abilities. He must teach her to control her gifts, keep her safe, and hope that he can find a place in her life as something more than just her bodyguard.

All power comes at a price. Like all Talents, Anna must one day make a choice: lose all of her powers, or ascend to a higher plane, leaving behind everyone she loves.

My Review
*I received this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.** may contain spoilers**
This book I had high expectations for, since I read the summary and I was instantly drawn into the idea of Talents, Guardians and the unique situations they encounter, and let me tell you I was not disappointed in the least. This book had it all Greek mythology, a small mystery that I did not think was that important at first...but it was, A hunky Guardian, Adventure and even a beautiful story.
After learning the true disturbing nature of most of the talents I was happy that Anna was different, instead of using her influence for selfish personal gain she used it to inspire those around her to reach their true potential. I was worried everything would go to her head but she did not disappoint me and she even found a few lost souls to bring over to the dark side lol. I just wish that I could know more about her powers and what makes her so different, I do believe that many answers are yet to come so indeed I would like to continue on. Also after all the Guardian mess, which I must confess I did not see coming, I need some answers.
Daniel was a breath of fresh air, he was strong and masculine yet he was not a jerk or standoffish which has become the norm in leading men in my opinion. He had walls up yes but I believe he had a reason and he did not let it effect how he treated Anna, well he tried anyway. I just need to find out how I get me one of them, cause me wanty ;).
My only complaint is this book was not long enough I could not believe I was done, I wanted it to go on and on and the fast pace, continuous action, and very engaging made it pass by way to quickly. I LOVE Greek mythology and I really enjoyed this book and it`s take on myths. I will be reading the rest of this series and anything else I can by Erin McFadden cause her writing style was very enjoyable.

Blog Tour Review- From Gods

Title: From Gods
Author: Mary Ting
Genre: Young Adult
Tour Host: Lady Amber's Tour's
Rating: 5/5

Summary
Did you just see a flash of lightning across the sky on a clear sunny day? It’s not from Mother Nature. It is most likely from Mason Grand, swoon-worthy demigod, one of Zeus’s descendants. 

Skylar Rome is supposed to be having the best summer ever before she heads off to college. Little did she know, her whole life was about to change while visiting her cousin. Nearly drowning at the beach due to unknown forces, one of the Grand brothers she’d just met, Mason, saves her life. Cool, collected, mysterious, and dangerously good-looking, Skylar is drawn to him from the start. Though she knows he is the type of guy good girls stayed away from, it seems he is always saving her life, and the attraction was inevitable. 

Upon meeting the brothers, strange things begin to happen. When she accidentally kills one of the brothers, it throws her life into turmoil, as they search to find the answers. Implausibly, she gets caught up in a world of the decedents of ancient gods, all who have super powers. Not only is her discovery difficult to accept, evil beings are after her. Running out of time and running for her life, she must unravel a mystery. What do they want from her? Forced into a battle set into motion long before she was born, will she find the answers, or will she die trying?

My Review
*Received this book free from the author in exchange for and honest review and as part of a blog tour*
This book was so great it left me speechless at the end and I'm having trouble finding the right words to express it's awesomeness. I am a huge fan of Greek mythology and this books take on the myths was perfect and the added "Unknown Factor" or "Keeper of Death" was the best, I wont spoils anything but I will say it added a depth and freshness I have been waiting for from this Genre. This is a book that I thought about a lot while not reading it, it held my attention and it will stay with me for a long time. I really liked that the book was mostly told from Skylar's point of view, but it had other POV's sprinkled in, giving me the perfect amount of knowledge and mystery.
 What an interesting and lovable group of characters the author introduced, the supporting cast was just as important as Skylar and Mason, I loved how they interacted and intwined it seemed effortless and relate-able. By the end of the book Mason had completely stole my heart, he didn't grab me right away but he grew on me a lot. I absolutely loved the growth in Skylar and Mason, two broken people finding each other and finding a way to break through together, they made me feel so many things and I found myself very invested in the relationship.
If you love, hate, or are unsure about this Genre read this book cause I think everyone should it is full of adventure, love, action, friendship, and family. I really don't know how else to say I loved this book so...I LOVED THIS BOOK!!!!

Author Bio: 

Mary Ting resides in Southern California with her husband and two children. She enjoys oil painting and making jewelry. Writing her first novel, Crossroads Saga, happened by chance. It was a way to grieve the death of her beloved grandmother, and inspired by a dream she once had as a young girl. When she started reading new adult novels, she fell in love with the genre. It was the reason she had to write one-Something Great. Why the pen name, M Clarke? She tours with Magic Johnson Foundation to promote literacy and her children's chapter book-No Bullies Allowed.

Book trailer: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HHkVg-DWCh8&feature=youtu.be

Author Links:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AuthorMaryTing
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AuthorMClarke
Twitter: https://twitter.com/MaryTing
Website: http://www.authormaryting
Blog: http://www.marytingbooks.blogspot.com
Goodreads: http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/4388953.Mary_Ting
Goodreads:  http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/7181038.M_Clarke
Pinterest: http://www.pinterest.com/mting888/boards/

Buy Links:

Amazon: http://amzn.to/GWm74K
Amazon UK: http://www.amazon.co.uk/From-Gods-ebook/dp/B00FRQRC4O/ref=sr_1_1?s=digital-text&ie=UTF8&qid=1381551797&sr=1-1&keywords=from+gods
Barnes & Noble: http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/from-gods-mary-ting/1117077139?ean=2940148419365
Smashwords: https://www.smashwords.com/books/view/366606