Review – Dark Elements Series 1 & 2 by Jennifer L. Armentrout

BFF K’s Review

Dark Elements Series 1 and 2 and Prequel Novella

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BFF K has read and LOVED all of the books so far in the Dark Elements Series. She read Bitter Sweet Love and White Hot Kiss before the launch of the BFF Book Blog. Since she finished Stone Cold Touch this week, and the cover for Every Last Breath was revealed today, here’s a review of the series to date!

This is a wacky little series. It’s part paranormal, part romance, definitely NA and more than a little angsty! The series starts with a prequel novella – Bitter Sweet Kiss. This is a great introduction to the world that Jennifer Armentrout has created! You are introduced to the Wardens (gargoyles) and begin to understand the plights and fights for their species. You’ll get a glimpse at the demons they fight and a sweet little 2nd chance romance story!

Then, in White Hot Kiss, you’re introduced full-force to Layla. You get a glimpse into her life and understand the struggles she faces with a foot in two different worlds. Part Warden and part Demon, it’s like she’s constantly battling; sometimes that war happens inside of her. She wants Zayne, but he’s untouchable, literally. Layla struggles with the love and affection she feels for Zayne knowing that she can never truly have him. So, when she meets Roth – though he’s a demon – he seems to be a reasonable match for her. And, he’s smokin’ hot and completely adorable in a cocky, self-assured, gets-what-he-wants-kind of way! The cliffhanger ending will leave you reeling and totally crushing on the Demon Prince!

Stone Cold Touch starts off with a BIG surprise! And then the ANGST reaches whole new levels! Layla and Zayne explore all of the facets of their relationship even when doing so threatens the stability of their home, the trust of their clan and even their lives. Through all of this, there are new monsters to fight and secrets revealed.

Layla is a really outstanding NA character. She’s both bold and naive. It’s really fun to see her explore who she is and peel back all of the layers to discover her place in the world. She is also learning who she can trust and who really does have her back. Zayne is good and kind and loyal. I think he’s the definition of a white knight. I picture him as the ultimate defender and staunchest supporter that Layla could ever hope for. You want them to succeed as friends first, but also as a potential couple. In so many ways, they’re perfect for one another and their devotion is incredible! Then, there’s Roth…..ah Roth! He’s a sexy as f&*# demon, but that’s easy to overlook. You really want to skim right over that fact because in virtually every other way, he’s absolutely FANTASTIC.

I’m not usually a fan of love triangles, but in this case it works and I LOVE it! I am now dying to know who Layla ends up with and what the future holds for Layla, Zayne and Roth. (And, isn’t that the mark of a really great series, when you desperately CARE about what happens to the characters?!?) NOTE – the angst isn’t really a highly charged tear-filled-emotional kind of angst. It’s more of a suspenseful, who will she choose, it could go either way, kind of angst!

Jennifer L. Armentrout actually took a fan vote to see who readers want Layla to end up with. I’m dying to see if it’s Zayne or Roth. But, honestly – I’m pretty sure I’m Team Roth!

If you like an angsty, paranormal, new adult, romance – this series is DEFINITELY for you!

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And, I know Hero is here twice – one for Zayne and one for Roth! <3

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WHITE HOT KISS synopsis:

One kiss could be the last.

Seventeen-year-old Layla just wants to be normal. But with a kiss that kills anything with a soul, she’s anything but normal. Half demon, half gargoyle, Layla has abilities no one else possesses.

Raised among the Wardens—a race of gargoyles tasked with hunting demons and keeping humanity safe—Layla tries to fit in, but that means hiding her own dark side from those she loves the most. Especially Zayne, the swoon-worthy, incredibly gorgeous and completely off-limits Warden she’s crushed on since forever.

Then she meets Roth—a tattooed, sinfully hot demon who claims to know all her secrets. Layla knows she should stay away, but she’s not sure she wants to—especially when that whole no-kissing thing isn’t an issue, considering Roth has no soul.

But when Layla discovers she’s the reason for the violent demon uprising, trusting Roth could not only ruin her chances with Zayne…it could brand her a traitor to her family. Worse yet, it could become a one-way ticket to the end of the world.

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STONE COLD TOUCH Synopsis:

Every touch has its price

Layla Shaw is trying to pick up the pieces of her shattered life—no easy task for a seventeen-year-old who’s pretty sure things can’t get worse. Her impossibly gorgeous best friend, Zayne, is forever off-limits thanks to the mysterious powers of her soul-stealing kiss. The Warden clan that has always protected her is suddenly keeping dangerous secrets. And she can barely think about Roth, the wickedly hot demon prince who understood her in ways no one else could.

But sometimes rock bottom is only the beginning. Because suddenly Layla’s powers begin to evolve, and she’s offered a tantalizing taste of what has always been forbidden. Then, when she least expects it, Roth returns, bringing news that could change her world forever. She’s finally getting what she always wanted, but with hell literally breaking loose and the body count adding up, the price may be higher than Layla is willing to pay…

“Constantly entertaining…the narrative sizzles with as much tension as romance.”

—Kirkus Reviews on White Hot Kiss

And the Prequel Novella, BITTER SWEET LOVE…

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BITTER SWEET LOVE Synopsis:

In a sizzling prequel novella to her new series The Dark Elements, #1 New York Times bestselling author Jennifer L. Armentrout draws readers into the extraordinary, irresistible world of Wardens and demons.

Dez wasn’t just Jasmine’s crush. A gargoyle Warden like Jas, he helped her come to terms with her destiny—fending off demons and maintaining the balance between good and evil. He was her everything…right until the moment he disappeared without a trace. It didn’t help that Jas’s father had just announced that she and Dez would one day be mated. Hard not to take that personally.

And now he’s back, three years older, ten times hotter, ready to pick up exactly where they left off. But Jas isn’t taking that risk again. Dez has seven days to meet all her conditions and earn back her trust. Seven days filled with terrifying danger and sweet temptation. Seven days to win her heart—or shatter it all over again…

“With her signature flare for combining humor, romance and action, Armentrout weaves a fast-paced read that will have readers’ hearts racing in more ways than one. Like Armentrout’s previous heroines, Jasmine is fun and full of attitude, while Dez is as snarky as he is sexy. This is a must read for new and old fans alike!” –RT Book Reviews

Jennifer L. Armentrout/J.Lynn Bio:

# 1 NEW YORK TIMES and USA TODAY Bestselling author Jennifer lives in Martinsburg, West Virginia. All the rumors you’ve heard about her state aren’t true. When she’s not hard at work writing. she spends her time reading, working out, watching really bad zombie movies, pretending to write, and hanging out with her husband and her Jack Russell Loki.

Her dreams of becoming an author started in algebra class, where she spent most of her time writing short stories….which explains her dismal grades in math. Jennifer writes young adult paranormal, science fiction, fantasy, and contemporary romance. She is published with Spencer Hill Press, Entangled Teen and Brazen, Disney/Hyperion and Harlequin Teen. Her book Obsidian has been optioned for a major motion picture and her Covenant Series has been optioned for TV.

She also writes adult and New Adult romance under the name J. Lynn. She is published by Entangled Brazen and HarperCollins.

Website | Twitter | Facebook | Jennifer L. Armentrout Goodreads | EVERY LAST BREATH Goodreads | STONE COLD TOUCH Goodreads | WHITE HOT KISS Goodreads | BITTER SWEET LOVE Goodreads

Review – Sea of Stars by Amy A. Bartol

Eighteen-year-old Kricket Hollowell was looking for her place in the world when she discovered that the universe was bigger—and more dangerous—than she had ever dreamed. Now, whisked across space to the planet Ethar, Kricket learns that her genetic ability to see the future makes her a sought-after commodity…and the catalyst for war between her star-crossed parents’ clans. According to Alameedan prophecy, one house will rise to power and the other will be completely wiped out, and Kricket’s precognition is believed to be the weapon that will tip the scales.

A target of both the Rafe and the Alameeda houses, Kricket finds protection—and a home—in the arms of Trey, her Etharian bodyguard-turned-boyfriend. But her visions of what’s to come disturb her deeply, especially since she must discover whether the gift of foresight will allow her to rewrite the future, or if her fate is as immovable as the stars.

The highly anticipated sequel to Under Different Stars, winner of four 2014 utopYA Awards.

BFF K’s Review

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Everything I loved about Under Different Stars (Kricket as a kick-ass heroine, Trey as a super-swoony hero and the incredible world that Amy Bartol has created) builds in Sea of Stars. Sea of Stars is the 2nd book in Amy A. Bartol’s Kricket series and it seriously does NOT disappoint! I absolutely LOVED Under Different Stars and listed it among my 2014 Besties. I’m always a little nervous to read book #2 when I’ve loved the first book in a series so much. But, there is ZERO let-down with this book. The Kricket series confirms that paranormal romance is my favorite genre!

Sea of Stars barely gives you a chance to catch your breath from the stunning conclusion of book #1. Then, it races off at an incredible pace, full of the most heart-pumping, descriptive action sequences I’ve read since Mockingjay by Suzanne Collins. Just when you’re convinced that Kricket can’t take any more, and honestly – neither can you…..there’s some sweet relief.

And this is where Trey truly shines. He’s battling hard for one of the top spots on my book boyfriend list! Kricket and Trey’s relationship is on an epic scale. Their love, loyalty, and devotion to one another will have you highlighting and re-reading paragraphs and scenes. I am obsessed with them as individual characters and as a couple. All of the book’s characters are so well written. There is an entire cast of supporting characters with incredible stories and personalities. I feel as invested in all of them as I do in the main characters.

I will admit – through the first 40-50% of the book, I felt a little beat up and Sea of Stars definitely ends with a cliff hanger. But, it all builds up and spins into this incredible story that will have you flying through the pages faster than an escapee on a hover vehicle. One of my BFFs found this series and introduced me to the brilliance. After we finished Sea of Stars, we spent 40 minutes of our dinner date discussing the plot, our favorite characters and theories for what we think comes next for Kricket.

I also must gush about how much I love Amy Bartol’s writing style. Her incredible words glide off the page, bounce around in my brain, and make my heart race. I love Amy Bartol’s writing so much that I’m challenged to read other books. Few authors deliver the kind of detail, emotion, dialogue and depth that she brings to her books.

If you haven’t read Under Different Stars, start it NOW! And, be ready to dive into Sea of Stars immediately. Then we’ll all wait together for Darken the Stars, set to release in Fall 2015.

***Audio Note***

I have also listened to large parts of this book on Audible and it is fantastic as well. If you’re a fan of audio books, this is a must-have!

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Amazon Links to Purchase The Kricket Series

Under Different Stars – Book 1

Sea of Stars – Book 2

Sea of Stars: The Kricket Series, Book 2 – Book 2 on Audible

Darken the Stars – Book 3 Pre-Order

About the Author

I live in Michigan with my husband and our two sons. My family is very supportive of my writing. When I’m writing, they often bring me the take-out menu so that I can call and order them dinner. They listen patiently when I talk about my characters like they’re real. They rarely roll their eyes when I tell them I’ll only be a second while I finish writing a chapter…and then they take off their coats. They ask me how the story is going when I surface after living for hours in a world of my own making. They have learned to accept my “writing uniform” consisting of a slightly unflattering pink fleece jacket, t-shirt, and black yoga pants. And they smile at my nerdy bookishness whenever I try to explain urban fantasy to them. In short, they get me, so they are perfect and I am blessed. Please visit me at my website: http://www.amyabartol.com

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Review – Thirty Days to Win His Wife by Andrea Laurence

Even with a baby on the way, Amelia’s holding out for the perfect husband. Tyler has thirty days to prove he’s the one.

Best friends Tyler Dixon and Amelia Kennedy eloped to Vegas on a whim. But before they can deal with their quickie divorce, she confesses: she’s pregnant. Now there’s no way Tyler will agree to go their separate ways. He wants them to stay married, raise their child together, share a house—and a bed.

Yet Amelia has always dreamed of a perfect marriage…and she doesn’t think this self-made millionaire is lifetime material despite their friendship. She’s given him just one month to prove her wrong…

BFF K’s Review

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Thirty Days to Win His Wife is what I would consider a traditional romance novel. The premise is familiar (in a good way) – friends make a pact to marry at a certain point if they’re not married to another. However, there’s a twist or two. Amelia and Tyler have been friends for years and though they know one another and rely on one another, they’re never been intimate.

That all changes in a big way. They find themselves married and expecting a baby and Tyler makes it his mission to win Amelia over and convince her that they can love one another for a lifetime. The next 30 days bring a few sweet moments and butterflies as they explore a new side to their relationship. In the end, I wish there had been deeper character development. The book was a quick read, but probably a little too quick. I really wish there had been more!

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About the Author

Andrea Laurence is an award winning contemporary author who has been a lover of books and writing stories since she learned to read. She always dreamed of seeing her work in print and is thrilled to be able to share her books with the world. A dedicated West Coast girl transplanted into the Deep South, she’s working on her own “happily ever after” with her boyfriend and five fur-babies. You can contact Andrea at her website: http://www.andrealaurence.com.

Review – Confess by Colleen Hoover

At age twenty-one, Auburn Reed has already lost everything important to her. In her fight to rebuild her shattered life, she has her goals in sight and there is no room for mistakes. But when she walks into a Dallas art studio in search of a job, she doesn’t expect to find a deep attraction to the enigmatic artist who works there, Owen Gentry.

For once, Auburn takes a chance and puts her heart in control, only to discover that Owen is keeping a major secret from coming out. The magnitude of his past threatens to destroy everything important to Auburn, and the only way to get her life back on track is to cut Owen out of it.

To save their relationship, all Owen needs to do is confess. But in this case, the confession could be much more destructive than the actual sin.

BFF A’s Review

OMG! Colleen has a crazy magical way of making a story come alive. The way she makes the story, the characters, the interwoven artwork, all come together- you feel like you are actually there. The characters felt like my best friends, like I knew every thing about them, yet wanted to know so much more.

I instantly loved Auburn because she stands up for what she wants. Auburn has faced many challenges in her young life; my heart ached for her. However, she does not let that stop her. She does whatever she can and what she believes is right to overcome the barriers set in front of her. Owen is sweet, he is kind, he is passionate. He knows too many secrets from strangers and has secrets of his own. To balance all that is in his mind, he paints…and OMG, what an amazing artist he is. (Artist, Danny O’Connor created paintings specifically for this book.) When Auburn stumbles into his life, we find there is a secret Owen holds. Their relationship is sweet, playful and fun. I loved the way Owen treated and protected Auburn. I couldn’t wait for the secrets to all come out. I was on the edge of each page wanting, no yelling and screaming at Owen to just tell Auburn the truth.

So many emotions come through when reading this book. There were a few twists in the story I wasn’t expecting, a few characters are just mean and evil. This adds depth to the heartache, but it also gave me some anxiety. I’ve never wanted to reach in and punch a character in a book so badly, but there were times I wish I could have. Confess has heartache, hurt, pain, anger, frustration but most of all there is love, and in the end, Love is what comes shining through.

(Side note on the tears, that’s a guess. I’m not a crier so who the hell knows – for me- none…but the normal person, I’d say probably a 4.)

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More About the Author:

Colleen Hoover’s love for writing began in 1985 when she was five years old. Her first story was titled “Mystery Bob” and was a huge hit with her mother, who was really good at faking interest.
Colleen continued to write short stories for friends and family until December of 2011, when she decided to write a long story she titled, “Slammed.” She self-published SLAMMED to Amazon in January, 2012 and it hit the NYT’s bestsellers list in May, 2012. She has since signed with Atria Books, a division of Simon & Schuster, and now has six NYT’s bestsellers. Colleen prefers to be called a writer, as the term “author” still terrifies her and makes this feel like a job with expectations. She doesn’t work well under pressure and hopes writing will always remain fun and exciting.

You can follow Colleen on Instagram and Twitter @colleenhoover. You can also find her on her blog at www.colleenhoover.com where she holds a daily book-a-day giveaway, or on her very active Facebook page at www.facebook.com/authorcolleenhoover where she loves to give away more free stuff when her husband isn’t looking.

Colleen also wants the world to know that writing short biographies in third person is incredibly awkward.

Review – Taint by S.L. Jennings

Right now, you’re probably asking yourself two things:
Who am I?
And, what the hell are you doing here?
Let’s start with the most obvious question, shall we?

You’re here, ladies, because you can’t f*ck.

Oh, stop it. Don’t cringe. No one under the age of 80 clutches their pearls.

You might as well get used to it, because for the next six weeks, you’re going to hear that word a lot. And you’re going to say it a lot.

Go ahead, try it out on your tongue.

F*ck. F***ck.

Ok, good. Now where were we?

If you enrolled yourself in this program then you are wholly aware that you’re a lousy lay. Good for you. Admitting it is half the battle.

For those of you that have been sent here by your husband or significant other, dry your tears and get over it. You’ve been given a gift, ladies. The gift of mind-blowing, wall-climbing, multiple-orgasm-inducing sex. You have the opportunity to f*ck like a porn star. And I guarantee, you will when I’m done with you.

And who am I?

Well, for the next six weeks, I will be your lover, your teacher, your best friend, and your worst enemy. Your every-f*cking-thing. I’m the one who is going to save your relationship and your sex life.

I am Justice Drake.

And I turn housewives into whores.

Now…who’s first?

BFF K’s Review

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Taint is STEAMY! If you’re looking for a good, heart-pounding, full of drama, packed with lots and lots of HOT scenes – this is your next read! Justice Drake is a super hottie, and as an added bonus, he teaches women to be better lovers. So, you can probably imagine how this goes….

Justice is cold and calculating. But, you unravel the personal damage that has created this complicated man.

Enter Allison Elliot Carr. She brings just the right amount of heat to thaw his cold heart, though she’s about the LAST person that he should fall for. (Side note – she loves Friends re-runs and one of my most favorite quotes from the entire TV series is a significant plot point! How perfectly endearing is that?)

Ally and Drake have a wonderful, angst-filled, wild ride. Their friendship is endearing and understandable. You’re waiting through the book for the bottom to fall out, and there are so many opportunities.

I was a little bit confused about just how Justice Drake’s business works….the synopsis says “lover” but I don’t think he actually sleeps with his clients, just provides education and gets them a little hot and bothered. I spent too much time trying to figure out exactly how this whole thing must work, and that sort of distracted me. So, know this going in and just accept that you’re going to get a steamy read with some good angst and a dash of romance.

OH – and I can’t forget the cover….this is seriously one of the hottest covers EVER! I might be in LOVE and Mike Thurston is absolutely the Justice Drake in my head. <3

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Goodreads Link: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/18366077-taint?ac=1

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About the Author:

S.L. Jennings is a New York Times & USA Today bestselling author of contemporary and paranormal romance, reality TV junkie, obsessive coffee drinker and collector of crazy.

Author Links: Website | Facebook | Twitter | Goodreads

Website: http://www.sljennings.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/authorsljennings
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Review – Something Real by Lexi Ryan

After everything blew up on Christmas, Liz walked away from me, and I let her. She said she needed space and a chance to pursue her dreams. But we both knew she was running from the mess she made. Now the political campaign she used as an excuse to leave is bringing us back together and I’m proving to her what she really needs—not just the hot nights, greedy hands, and undeniable physical chemistry. What she really needs is something real. What she really needs…is me.

BFF K’s Review

Something Real is the perfect conclusion to an angsty, political-based, second (or maybe third/fourth) chance romance! (Something Reckless – Book 1 – threw me for a loop with all of the surprises revealed at the end!) Liz and Sam have all of the odds stacked against them. There are so many crazy circumstances and crazy people pulling them apart. The years of cat and mouse have finally caught up with them it is time to commit to one another or commit to a life apart. Their overwhelming attraction to one another is impossible to deny, but it is FINALLY the moment for them to decide if they can put the past behind them and create a future together. I loved the crazy cast of characters and fast pace of this novel. You definitely need to read Something Reckless first, but then you’ll want to rush right into Something Real! Enjoy the roller coaster ride!

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SOMETHING RECKLESS is on sale for .99 cents until March 14!

Read BFF K’s Review Here

He talks dirty to me, but I don’t know his name.
He wants to tie me up, but I don’t know his face.
He turns me on, but I couldn’t point him out in a crowd.
I’ve fallen for an anonymous stranger, and tonight the anonymity ends. Tonight I want more than typed secrets and texted promises. I want something reckless. Heat. Passion. The thrill of being entirely possessed.

Because I suspect this anonymous stranger isn’t a stranger at all.

Lizzy Thompson met riverrat69 online through Something Real, a service promising to deliver meaningful relationships by forbidding its users to share names or photos until they’ve reached a certain benchmark. She was looking for love. He was researching an investment. They hit it off. Talked and flirted, hid behind screen names and cartoon avatars.
Now they’re breaking the rules and meeting in person. But Liz is prepared. She’s picked up hints and followed clues.
She’s ninety-percent convinced she’s discovered the identity of her dirty-talking online friend.
She wonders if her ex-lover Sam Bradshaw knows her identity too.
When she rolls the dice on one reckless night, her chance at something real could crumble.

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About the Author

Once a college English professor, I now write full time. I live in rural Indiana, where, when I’m not writing, I get to hang out with my husband and two kids–a six-year-old boy and

a two-year-old hellion, er, girl. Not surprisingly, reading and writing remain my favorite activities, though both come in bits and pieces these days, not the big hunks of time I en- joyed before I had children. When I’m feeling virtuous, I like to go running (I use that word liberally. I’m really, really slow) or do yoga. Don’t worry, I’m always careful to balance out such activities with a hearty serving of ice cream or a chocolate martini.

Website: http://lexiryan.com

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/lexiryan

Twitter: @writerlexiryan; https://twitter.com/writerlexiryan

Review – New Release – The Design by R.S. Grey

Five minutes until the interview begins.

Fresh on the heels of her college graduation, Cameron Heart has landed an interview at a prestigious architecture firm.

Four minutes until the interview.

She knows she’s only there because the owner, Grayson Cole, is her older sister’s friend.

Three minutes.

For the last seven years, Grayson has been the most intimidating man Cammie has ever had the pleasure, or displeasure, of being around.

Two Minutes.

But the job opportunity is too good to pass up. So, Cammie will have to ignore the fact that Grayson is handsome enough to have his own national holiday.

One.

After all, she shouldn’t feel that way about her new boss. And, he will be her new boss.

…

“I’m not scared of you,” I said with a confident smile.

“Perhaps we should fix that, Ms. Heart. Close the door.”

BFF K’s Review

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Grayson Cole is devastatingly handsome (in my brain, he more or less looks like Henry Cavill.) He’s also kind of a controlling jerk. Cammie Heart is smart, sassy, determined and talented. She’s also been hopelessly in LOVE with Grayson since she was a wild teenager.

There are secrets. Lots. Of. Secrets.

There are games. Lots. Of. Games.

Watching Grayson and Cammie try to navigate a changing relationship is a fun ride. Cammie is tenacious. But, behind her assertive, get-what-she-wants, vibrato is a girl unsure of her place in the world. She wants to be independent and self-reliant, but realizes that she also desperately needs to be surrounded by the people she loves. Grayson has harbored a variety of feelings for Cammie over the years and it is interesting to see the relationship evolve.

I’ve read several books recently with incredibly strong and independent heroines. I found myself wishing Cammie would grow a little more spine. I also think that Grayson was a borderline-creeper in his attempts to help and care for her over the years. However, those things didn’t bother me enough that it detracted from the story. I still enjoyed the ride!

Overall, I loved The Design. And, it’s a GREAT follow-up to The Duet. There are silly parts and serious parts and parts that will make you cringe a little. (I LOVE Cammie’s internal dialogue.) Some of the parts are LOL-funny and the epilogue is the perfect bow on the package to wrap up the HEA!

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Excerpt

I paused just outside of the front doors and took a deep breath, trying to get my bearings. I was twenty minutes early for my interview. My outfit was still wrinkle-free. My pad-folio was filled with extra copies of my resume and reference letters, and I’d rehearsed every possible question that Grayson Cole would ask:

Greatest weakness? My inability to settle for anything less than what I deserve. I’m stubborn and persistent.

The honest answer? My inability to overcome my schoolgirl crush on you even though you’re a self-righteous ass.

I would NOT be giving him the honest answer.

About the Author

I am a lover of books, chocolate, reality TV, black labs, and cold weather. Seriously, if I had it my way, I would be curled up on the couch with all of those things… everyday.

I live in Texas where I spend my free time writing and reading. My favorite authors include Mindy Kaling & Jonathan Safran Foer. I’m a comedy geek and love all things “funny”. Women like Tina Fey, Amy Poehler, and Mindy Kaling are definitely the biggest inspirations for my writing, though I think my work tends to skew a bit smuttier than theirs.

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Review – The Hidden Library by Heather Lyons

Heather Lyons has done it again with THE HIDDEN LIBRARY! THE HIDDEN LIBRARY is an Adult Romantic Fairy Tale, full of adventure and fantasy and the second book in Heather’s The Collectors’ Society Series! Check out the latest fantastic installment in this series that brings you some of the classics with a twist.

Sometimes, the rabbit hole is deeper than expected . . .

Alice Reeve and Finn Van Brunt have tumbled into a life of secrets. Some secrets they share, such as their employment by the clandestine organization known as The Collectors’ Society. Other secrets they carry within them, fighting to keep buried the things that could change everything they think they know.

On the hunt for an elusive villain who is hell-bent on destroying legacies, Alice, Finn, and the rest of the Society are desperate to unravel the mysteries surrounding them. But the farther they spiral down this rabbit hole, the deeper they fall into secrets that will test their loyalties and pit them against enemies both new and old.

Secrets, they come to find, can reveal the deadliest of truths.

BFF K’s Review

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I LOVED The Hidden Library. You will turn the pages faster and faster as you move through the book until you realize you’ve reached the end and are still holding your breath to see what happens next!

Heather Lyons has done it again. I said it after The Collectors’ Society, and I’ll say it again, Alice kicks ass! It is no secret that I absolutely adore Alice, I think she is one of the most well written heroines I’ve ever found. Heather has written a character so incredible that I want to see her attributes in every book I read. Alice is a mixture of traits that would seem to be at odds with one another. Yet Heather pulls them together in a way that just makes sense and presents Alice with such consistency that you understand how all of her attributes fit and work together. Alice is at the same time: tough and vulnerable, sensitive and strong, courageous and exposed, independent and a team player, refined and bold. I LOVE how Alice NEVER backs down from a fight. She is honest, trustworthy, selfless and fiercely loyal – it feels like she speaks profound sentiments every time she opens her mouth. BUT, she’s not annoying or judgmental or stiff. Alice is the kind of woman that men fall in love with, and women envy. She absolutely deserves the love and devotion of two incredible men.

Finn….Swoon….He’s amazing! Like Alice, Finn is a fantastic mix of characteristics that make you admire and respect him. He’s a guy’s-guy and a woman’s dream.

Things always get a little more interesting when the White King is around. My heart aches every time Jace enters the picture. His devotions to Alice and to Wonderland are selfless and honorable. He shows up to save the day more than once and oh, does he look good doing it!

I marvel at how Heather Lyons can write a story that is a love triangle, but not a love triangle. Alice is adored and revered by two different men. Heather masterfully demonstrates how someone can love two people at the same time. No one involved is necessarily at fault, there are no victims or guilty parties. In the end, the genuine feelings of sacrificial love for one another guide all of the interactions.

More and more is revealed in this book about a number of the series’ characters and some new ones are introduced. I was particularly struck by the revelations around Victor. While the scenario presented is not necessarily surprising, Lyons uncovers Victor’s secrets in a way that is poignant and touching. I’m interested to see how Victor plays into the next story!

The Hidden Library features something new to the series with alternate points of view. You’ll hear from both Alice and Finn and I think the alternate POV is really well done. The story flows seamlessly between the two. But, both Finn and Alice have distinct voices. It really felt like the story was being told from 2 different characters and personalities and not just 2 different POV’s.

The adventures that Alice, Finn and the other members of The Collectors’ Society embark on in this book will make your heart race and your mind bend. You’ll wonder what could possibly happen next and be left speechless when it slides into its conclusion.

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I’m in awe of Heather Lyons talent and so thankful that she shares it with the world! Enjoy this next installment of The Collectors’ Society!

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Excerpt

We are about to open the conference room door and enter the hallway when he stops. He turns to me, his lovely eyes achingly sincere. “I want to take you on a date when all of this craziness is over. A real one. We’ve kind of gone about this all backwards, haven’t we?”

One corner of my mouth lifts up. “Are you saying you’d like to court me?”

There is no playfulness to his face, no quirk to his own lips. My heart flutters at his seriousness. “Yes.”

He wants to court me.

Too many emotions rush around in a caucus race throughout my body. I have no doubts of Huckleberry Finn Van Brunt’s feelings toward me. I understood them two minutes ago just as well as I did this morning when I woke up and from the night before and from the day in Wonderland where he said, in not so many words, that he was falling in love with me.

I told him he was my north star, and meant it. He countered we are binaries.

He and I . . . We’ve never said those words, though, not the ones that truly spell out fragile, deep secrets of a heart and soul. Words so easily and yet unfortunately uttered by many, be it to express their appreciation of fried bits of potatoes to sports teams on the television. Words offered so frivolously about a variety of subjects and yet can be the most difficult, most painful, most meaningful, most cherished syllables we gift another person.

I have said these words before, to another man. Another man I still love. One I know, in the deepest confines of my heart, that I will love until the last breath escapes my body. A man who courted me in secret and then publicly in the face of astonishment, disapproval, confusion, and, in the end, prophesies.

I have willingly given the man in front of me my heart, though, whether he knows it or not. He now holds it in his hands, and while I pray he is my future, there is still a part of me that bucks in conflicted confusion and delight by this declaration of his.

He wants to court me.

And yet, as sweet and romantic as such a gesture might be, I require no such formalities. My affections for Finn Van Brunt have already solidified into something real and wonderful and meaningful.

Don’t miss the first book in this series, THE COLLECTORS’ SOCIETY!

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About Heather Lyons:

Heather Lyons writes epic, heartfelt love stories and has always had a thing for words. In addition to writing, she’s also been an archaeologist and a teacher. She and her husband and children live in sunny Southern California and are currently working their way through every cupcakery she can find.

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Review – Confessions of a Reformed Tom Cat by Daisy Prescott

I, Thomas Clifford Donnely, am a manwhore.

I’ve been told I’m irresistible to women. Like catnip for a different type of pussy-cat. I guess you could call me a Tom Cat.

This is the story about how I lost my wingman, broke all my own rules, and found myself falling in love.

Tom Donnelly isn’t the marrying kind, or the dating kind. Even after losing his #1 wingman to love, he doesn’t see the point in relationships. When his sister’s best friend returns to Whidbey Island and propositions Donnelly for a one-night stand, he breaks one of his biggest rules—no fooling around with his sisters’ friends. It’s just sex, nothing more. That’s what Tom does and does well.

What happens when “just sex” isn’t enough?

Hailey King is more than a match for Tom’s flirtations. She’s known him most of her life and has heard the rumors about his “skills” for years. When her perfectly planned future falls apart, will the last man she should ever fall for turn out to be more than a one-night stand?

BFF K’s Review

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Confession: I have a book crush on Tom Donnely! MEOW! The Tom Cat has always been one of my favorite side characters in the Modern Love Stories series, but until this book he sort of just stalked around the edges pouncing on his prey. This story brought him front and center and then turned his world upside down. Getting a glimpse of Tom (and the whole Donnely family) was a fun ride.

As a reader, you get the chance to see a different side of Tom – he’s unassuming, loyal, humble, creative, caring and generous. Though he hides many of those qualities behind his playboy image, Hailey seems to bring those best qualities to the forefront. It is fun to watch the carefully constructed walls and persona that Tom has crafted begin to crumble before he even realizes it.

This book is FUNNY, I cracked up when I went back and read quote after highlighted quote.

“Guys move shit that needs moving. I think it’s in the sacred book of being friends, especially in the men being friends with women chapter. On page forty-two: Have a penis? Thou shall move shit.”

Tom is clever and funny and his confessions are a riot. I enjoyed the banter Tom has with his friends and Hailey and I really enjoyed his internal monologue. The sex scenes are steamy, but still painted with the “book-sex-meets-reality” humor that Daisy Prescott is so skilled at capturing! All in all Confessions of a Reformed Tom Cat is a wonderful little feel good romance that adds even more characters to the beloved world of the Modern Love Stories series. The characters and stories make this series one of my all time Besties AND most recommended. It’s my kind of catnip!

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Daisy Prescott Bio:

Before writing bestselling contemporary adult romances, I dreamed of being an author while doing a lot of other things. Antiques dealer, baker, blue ribbon pie-maker, fangirl, freelance writer, gardener, pet mom and wife are a few of the other titles I’ve acquired over the years.

Born and raised in San Diego, I currently lives in a real life Stars Hollow in the Boston suburbs with my husband, our dog Hubbell, and an imaginary house goat.

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Review – Bright Side by Kim Holden

Secrets.
Everyone has one.
Some are bigger than others.
And when secrets are revealed,
Some will heal you …
And some will end you.

Kate Sedgwick’s life has been anything but typical. She’s endured hardship and tragedy, but throughout it all she remains happy and optimistic (there’s a reason her best friend Gus calls her Bright Side). Kate is strong-willed, funny, smart, and musically gifted. She’s also never believed in love. So when Kate leaves San Diego to attend college in the small town of Grant, Minnesota, the last thing she expects is to fall in love with Keller Banks.

They both feel it.
But they each have a reason to fight it.
They each have a secret.

And when secrets are revealed,
Some will heal you …
And some will end you.

BFF K’s Review

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Bright Side is by far the saddest book I have ever read in my entire life. It is also one of the most uplifting stories filled with incredible characters and amazing life lessons.

I stayed away from this book as long as I could. I was terribly afraid, and rightly so. When a group of awesome ladies in an online book group (#VixenLove) decided to tackle this together as a group read; I agreed to join them since there would be hand-holding. Kim Holden promised lots of virtual hugs, so I jumped!

The first 60% of Bright Side flies by in a terrific way. The characters are full and rich and written in a way that you want to be them or be BFF’s with them! I developed a serious-girl-crush on Kate, and I wanted her to be my BFF. I was also supremely jealous of her to have the love and devotion of both Gus and Keller. But, she’s such an incredible person that you can see why she has a loyal band (pun intended) of friends and devotees! I was constantly so impressed with her thought process and her attitude. And the music – ohhhhh – the music!

Somewhere around 60-70%, you start to figure out what’s coming. From 70% to the end, I recommend not leaving your home. Notify your family of the impending breakdown. Prepare a soft comfy reading spot, get a full box of tissues, a trash can (to put said tissues), a glass of water (to replenish the fluids you will loose) and your book. Just know, you’re going to cry. A lot. And, when you think it can’t possibly get any sadder…..it does. But, I promise, when it’s over, it is SO worth it!

Here’s my post about Bright Side on our BFF Book Blog Facebook page. My eyes actually looked worse than this. I’ve never been such a wreck over a fictional ‘event.’

Post by BFF Book Blog.

(The next morning, I messaged Kim Holden and she graciously agreed to an author interview, which I will be posting after this review. I’m so grateful to her for taking part in our 2nd edition of “That’s What She Said”! She’s delightful.)

Bright Side is the very first book character that inspires me to be a better person. I want to look at life with the same lens Kate uses. And, I want to approach people with the warmth, compassion and understanding that Kate offers to everyone she encounters. I want my life (and the way I live it) to have impact and meaning for those that matter the most to me. I want to live on the Bright Side and Do Epic!

I’ve recommended the book to several friends and family. Every person who’s read it RAVES about it. I owe a HUGE thank you to the Vixens who gave me the support and encouragement I needed to take the plunge. If you’re scared to jump in, message me on Facebook and I’ll be happy to talk you through it/hold your hand!

Prepare. Be Brave. Read Bright Side!

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I know that HERO is listed twice…..Once for Keller and once for Gus! <3

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About the Author

I (Kim Holden) live in the greatest city in the world: Denver, Colorado. Some of my favorite things: reading, writing, the two coolest guys on the planet (my husband and son), my bicycle, Facebook, iced coffee, and music. I also love dreaming. And speaking of dreaming, I have a bit of advice for anyone reading this … follow your dreams. It’s never too late. Get started today … heck get started RIGHT NOW! Make your dreams reality.
I love to hear from fellow readers. Love. It. Please come find me. We’ll hang out. It’ll be fun:
Facebook https://www.facebook.com/KimHoldenAuthor
Goodreads https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/7445352.Kim_Holden
My Website https://kimholdenbooks.com

BFF K’s Review

Dark Elements Series 1 and 2 and Prequel Novella

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And the Prequel Novella, BITTER SWEET LOVE…

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Amazon Links to Purchase The Kricket Series

Under Different Stars – Book 1

Sea of Stars – Book 2

Sea of Stars: The Kricket Series, Book 2 – Book 2 on Audible

Darken the Stars – Book 3 Pre-Order

About the Author

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About the Author

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Excerpt

Greatest weakness? My inability to settle for anything less than what I deserve. I’m stubborn and persistent.

The honest answer? My inability to overcome my schoolgirl crush on you even though you’re a self-righteous ass.

I would NOT be giving him the honest answer.

About the Author

BFF K’s Review

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Excerpt

We are about to open the conference room door and enter the hallway when he stops. He turns to me, his lovely eyes achingly sincere. “I want to take you on a date when all of this craziness is over. A real one. We’ve kind of gone about this all backwards, haven’t we?”

One corner of my mouth lifts up. “Are you saying you’d like to court me?”

There is no playfulness to his face, no quirk to his own lips. My heart flutters at his seriousness. “Yes.”

He wants to court me.

I told him he was my north star, and meant it. He countered we are binaries.

I have willingly given the man in front of me my heart, though, whether he knows it or not. He now holds it in his hands, and while I pray he is my future, there is still a part of me that bucks in conflicted confusion and delight by this declaration of his.

He wants to court me.

And yet, as sweet and romantic as such a gesture might be, I require no such formalities. My affections for Finn Van Brunt have already solidified into something real and wonderful and meaningful.

Amazon ** Barnes and Noble ** iBooks** Kobo

Website | Author Goodreads | Twitter | Facebook | THE HIDDEN LIBRARY Goodreads

BFF K’s Review

“Guys move shit that needs moving. I think it’s in the sacred book of being friends, especially in the men being friends with women chapter. On page forty-two: Have a penis? Thou shall move shit.”

Buy Links:

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About the Author

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