Thursday, October 7, 2010

Made the Grade: One in a Million by Abby Gaines & Marisa Carroll

Format: Kindle Edition | File Size: 261 KB | Release Date: October 2010 | Publisher: Harlequin NASCAR

"No Ordinary Man" [within One in a Million] by Abby Gaines

My Book Summary : Eli hasn't been having the best of luck lately when it comes to his racing career, but he never expected to have his sponsor and owner call a meeting with him to inform him that if he doesn't stop being partying at night or is doesn't start doing better on the track they both plan to drop him. So, when Jennifer (Jen) comes into his life, a girl completely different then the model types that usually surround him, he asks her to help him out by being his fake girl friend.

Soon though he finds that she brings him luck and asks her to help him out longer then originally planned. During that time they find that they have a connection but will Eli decide to change his ways for a real relationship or will he decide to drop Jen and move onto the next fling?

My Book Review : 3.5 out of 5 stars, it was sweet. Great chemistry between the characters. I love the NASCAR driver stories and this has turn into one that I might read again sometime.

Book Teaser :
Ten thousand dollars.
"It sounds like a bribe," she said.
"It's a job offer," he corrected. "A temporary job to help secure your future. Compared with what I stand to lose, ten thousand bucks is chicken feed. Literally, in this case."
Ten thousand dollars would bring the security she craved closer. But it would do more then that. The sooner she finished her degree, the sooner she could get a good-paying job and stop feeling as if she was missing out on life.
"Why didn't you mention the money earlier?" she asked. "Why pretend that you like me?" ~ within Chapter 8



"Daisy Chain" [within One in a Million] by Marisa Carroll [aka Carol Wagner and Marian Franz]

My Book Summary : Quinn has been dealing with a lot, but he never expected his younger stepbrother to die. He goes to his grave to pay his respects and finds a pregnant lady looking at him, to realize that it's his late brother's girlfriend.

Daisy didn't think she would be welcome at the funeral so she decided to visit the father of her baby's grave today to pay her respects. Once she gets there, however, she meets his older stepbrother, and even though he is very attractive, she is scared to see him so after a brief conversation she backs off and heads back to her vehicle. It's not that Quinn said anything wrong, it's just that her baby's father's family (meaning his parents) have been threatening to take parental control away from her once her baby is born and because of that she wants no relationship with anyone from that side of the family. But when her antics to get away from Quinn end up with her in a car accident and in labor, he is right there beside her making sure she’s okay.

After her baby is born, the baby’s grandparents show up asking (and threatening a bit) to have her move in with them, but Daisy decides not to agree since she doesn’t trust them at all, and Quinn is there to back her up and suggest that she move in with him for the time being. Daisy agrees to move in with Quinn after she sees that he won’t back down from what he’s stepfather demands, knowing that in her weak condition he will help stand up to them with her.

Over the time, the two get to know each other and fall into a relationship that neither really want to end. While they have yet to go on a date or even, kiss each other. However, with the threat of Daisy’s daughter being taken away will they be able to become a family or will Daisy leave as soon as she’s better without looking back?

My Book Review : 3 out of 5 stars. For as much drama, and unrealistic aspects that I didn't expect to happen, I did enjoy this story! ESPECIALLY with the two books "No Ordinary Man" & "Daisy Chain" playing off one another really made my interest in the second story increase even more!

Book Teaser :
"Hey, are you okay? You went a little blank on me there for a moment."
"What? No. I'm fine, just a little dizzy. I'm sorry, what did you say?" she stuttered, shocked to her core to realize that, yes, she was beginning to think of him as more than just a friend, a benefactor. She was beginning to think of him as a man, and a sexy desirable one at that. ~ within Chapter 8



** This site is a participant in various affiliate advertising programs through Amazon.com, Rakuten Marketing, Commission Junction, IndieBound, Smashwords, Book Depository, and more that are designed to provide a means for Jess to earn minimal advertising fees by showcasing the areas you can purchase the corresponding products that Jess discusses within her blog posts.
All of these affiliate links are obvious as to which ones they are.
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*sigh* I'm sorry!!

Hey all .... I love having this blog and I AM NOT GIVING IT UP so please keep following me ... and I STILL plan on having monthly contests ... and reviewing as much as possible. HOWEVER, the reason I have dwindled from posting just about every two days or so to a little longer in-between is because I'M PREGNANT!!! YAY!! My husband and I have been trying for over a year and a half so we're very happy and excited. BUT that also means that I've been dealing with morning sickness for the past 3 weeks and haven't felt motivated (much) to reading as much as I was before. Which really sucks, since even though my hubby might not have liked the amount of time I put into reading books, I did like it. *hehee* =0)

*sigh* Anyway ... I'm trying to stay on track and like I said I still plan on posting as much as I can and keeping up with the monthly contests ... but I just wanted to let you know why I have suddenly slowed down from my posting.

Thanks for your support! ♥

Take care, Jess



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Tuesday, October 5, 2010

Idolizing In: New York Blades Series, Book 8

Format: Kindle Edition | File Size: 573 KB | Release Date: October 2008 | Publisher: Berkley Sensation

"Power Play" [New York Blades Series, Book 8] by Deirdre Martin

My Book Summary : Monica has been the lead actress on her soap opera for 10 years. She loves her job but doesn't always know if what she does is worth the money or not, especially when some of her friends think that to be an actress you need to be working on Broadway or pretty much anything other being on a soap, it's hard not to listen to their criticism.

Eric has just been traded onto the New York Blades, a hockey team, where he's the defenseman, and a team that his twin brother is already a part of. He has also recently been named one of People magazines hottest bachelors! So, when he's asked to do a cameo on a soap opera he has no problem with doing so, especially since it's one that he is a fan of himself. He plans on saying he's lines and hitting it big with the star of the show Roxie, who just happens to be Monica's character.

After his performance, he tries his "playboy" act on Monica and it turns into a disaster. Since, even though Eric is great looking, who would want to be hit on by someone saying corny lines over and over, definitely not Monica. However, soon after they meet Monica learns that her show is gaining a new cast member, and soon she realizes that this cast member would like nothing more than to take her spot light. So, Monica turns to her publicist to see what she can do to keep being noticed by her fans and everyone else. The problem is ... her publicist’s suggestion is to have a fake relationship with Eric for the NY Blades!

She knows that she's a good actress, so faking interest in a man she can't really stand, no problem! But after the good amount of time that they spend together, they become closer, and soon each of them aren't sure which parts the other is faking anymore and which parts are real.

My Book Review : 5 out of 5 stars!!! By reading the book summary on the authors website, at first I wasn't sure that I would be into this book. However, I am very happy that I gave this book a chance!! The banter & chemistry between Monica and Eric is charming and delightful to read!! You can't but route for the two to stay together!! Plus, the secondary characters from both of their lives was great to read about .... from the drama in acting to the male talk in the locker rooms!!

I HIGHLY RECOMMEND THIS BOOK!!

My Previous Review(s) for this Series : Book 4

Book Teaser(s) :
"Because it's all I have!" Monica cried.
"That's not true," Eric countered fiercely. "You have me!"
The minute the words slipped from his mouth, Eric felt thunder in his head; he'd never said anything like that to any woman in his life. Meanwhile, Monica was looking at him warily.
"What does that mean, Eric?"
Eric struggled to put it into words. "It means I'm here. It means I'm your friend. It means . . . I don't know."
"That's great. Very helpful."
Eric looked away, feeling like an asshole. ~ within Chapter 14

For more information on this book, series, and/or any other books by Deirdre, then please check out her website. Also ... for more information about this series you should check out this website: NYBlades.com.



** This site is a participant in various affiliate advertising programs through Amazon.com, Rakuten Marketing, Commission Junction, IndieBound, Smashwords, Book Depository, and more that are designed to provide a means for Jess to earn minimal advertising fees by showcasing the areas you can purchase the corresponding products that Jess discusses within her blog posts.
All of these affiliate links are obvious as to which ones they are.
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Monday, October 4, 2010

Feasted On: Hot Shot by Susan Elizabeth Phillips

Format: Kindle Edition | File Size: 636 KB | Release Date: January 2010 | Publisher: eBooks

"Hot Shot" by Susan Elizabeth Phillips

My Book Summary : Susannah (Suzie or Suze) grew up with her grandmother after her mother left her there. The only problem was is that her grandmother was crazy, throwing strict rules at her that no one would ever be able to live up to, so when she got into trouble her usual punishment was to be locked into a stuffy closet where the dusty fur coats were held. Which always made her more skittish and scared then really helped her, making her get into trouble for other things that her grandmother might not have liked. So, when a guy finds her one day inside the closet, takes her out of there and her grandmother's house, tells her that he is her mother's husband and that she should call him father, she feels like he is her knight-in-shining-armor and plans to be the best daughter she could be. Over the years though being the best daughter has made her father love her more then his biological child, has made her younger sister resent her, and made her take up the role of coordinating the mansion and her father's schedule for him when her mother doesn't make the effort to do so.

Now, at the age of 25, she is planning on getting married to a guy that her father approves of and is feeling more trapped in her life (and her perfect daughter role) more then ever. Therefore, when Sam steps into her life trying to get a meeting with her father about his brilliant idea he'd like to sell him, she starts to realize that there might be a better life out there for her if only she would let it. However, when she decides to follow her heart, she finds herself cut off from the only family she's known and the only parent that has ever loved her. Then when she gets more involved in Sam and his partner's brilliant idea she realizes she's a women in a man's world, and she is going to have to fight her way to be seen as more then Sam's girl, especially when there are people who seem to want to knock her down every step of the way.

My Book Review : 4.5 out of 5 stars! Okay .... originally this book, in it's hardcover/paperback formats, was written in 1991 so most of the book is based in the 70's and 80's which is when women were just coming into the work force (more so then before) and taking on bigger roles that others might not have been ready for them to do. Plus, this book (based on what the author writes in her 'author's note') is based prominently on fiction, about the IBM's and Apple's of that time period (how they all got started -- etc.) while set in her non-fiction world. It kept me captivated! In addition, I LOVED the relationship Susannah had with Sam, Yank, & Mitch!! However, I will admit throughout this book there are twists that I really didn't expect to see, and I wish I had some tissues with me when they did come around.

My only problem with the book was that even though I loved the relationships that were written between all of the characters, I think there should have been a bit more about Susannah and the man she is with towards the end. Since the story gets them together but you really don't get to see their relationship bloom more so then what is provided already in the book. *shrug* But that could be just me.

Anyway .... I recommend this book for those who like fiction and non-fiction type of books mixed together, along with those whom have read the other books of Susan Elizabeth Phillips before since this one is one of her first books, and is GREAT right along with the rest!!

My Previous Review(s) for this Author : Ain't She Sweet | What I Did for Love | Nobody's Baby But Mine | Honey Moon | Dream a Little Dream | Lady Be Good | Just Imagine

Book Teaser(s) :
She leaned into him just like always and moaned softly against his mouth. Reluctantly, he drew away.
She sighed and looked over at the boxes of parts. "You're going to put me to work now, aren't you?"
"I promise you can take a coffee break sometime next week."
She laughed, and then, together, they settled down to begin the laborious process of assembling forty single-board computers.
The task involved "stuffing" every one of the printed circuit boards by hand. ~ within Chapter 11
"Be honest with me," he said, as he stretched out his legs. "Do you think I'm stuffy?"
"You? Perish the thought."
"I'm not joking. I want to know."
"You're serious?"
He nodded.
"Yes. You're definitely stuffy."
"Well, thank you. Thank you so very much." He glared at her, a picture of offended dignity. ~ within Chapter 21

For more information on this book and/or any other books by Susan, then please check out her website.



** This site is a participant in various affiliate advertising programs through Amazon.com, Rakuten Marketing, Commission Junction, IndieBound, Smashwords, Book Depository, and more that are designed to provide a means for Jess to earn minimal advertising fees by showcasing the areas you can purchase the corresponding products that Jess discusses within her blog posts.
All of these affiliate links are obvious as to which ones they are.
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Friday, October 1, 2010

October 2010 Contest, WIN :: evermore & blue moon

PRIZE :: "evermore" & "blue moon" [Immortals Series, Books 1 & 2] by Alyson Noel

Have you not read this series yet?? Well then you can get started with the first two books!!!



"evermore" [Immortals Series, Book 1]

Format: Paperback | Pages: 320 | Release Date: February 2009 | Publisher: St. Martin's Griffin

My Book Summary :
    Ever has recently lost her parents, younger sister, and dog to a terrible car accident which she survived. Yet now she has the ability to hear the thoughts of those around her, except those of Damen the cute new boy in school, who seems to have some interesting abilities of his own, among them he's able to create tulips out of thin air. But as Damen gets closer to Ever someone from Damen's past would like nothing better then to rip them apart for good.

Author Book Trailer :

If you can't see/watch the above video then click here to watch it.



"blue moon" [Immortals Series, Book 2]

Format: Paperback | Pages: 304 | Release Date: July 2009 | Publisher: St. Martin's Griffin

My Book Summary :
    Ever is now learning everything she can in becoming an immortal like Damen. However, as her powers start getting stronger, his own powers are weakening and he starts distancing himself from her. Now the only way she can save him is by going to Summerland and seeing if there is anything to help him. But once she gets there will she choose to still be help save Damen or will she try to rewrite her past and try saving her family instead?

Author Book Trailer :

If you can't see/watch the above video then click here to watch it.



RULES ::
  1. Only residents of the US or Canada are eligible to win.
  2. This contest ends on October 31st and the winners will be selected using Random.org.
  3. You must be at least 13 years-old and a follower of my blog to enter.
  4. Name and email must be provided and counts as 1 entry. Additional entries are possible but links must be provided.
  5. The form below must be filled out to enter.





** This site is a participant in various affiliate advertising programs through Amazon.com, Rakuten Marketing, Commission Junction, IndieBound, Smashwords, Book Depository, and more that are designed to provide a means for Jess to earn minimal advertising fees by showcasing the areas you can purchase the corresponding products that Jess discusses within her blog posts.
All of these affiliate links are obvious as to which ones they are.
**



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Made the Grade: A Serengeti Shifter Novella, Book 3

Format: Kindle Edition | File Size: 318 KB | Release Date: September 2010 | Publisher: Samhain Publishing

"Serengeti Lightning" [A Serengeti Shifter Novella, Book 3] by Vivi Andrews

My Book Summary : Mara has been wanting a family of her own for some time, and being the only teacher of her pride and dealing with the children (cubs) all day makes that wanting even harder to bare some days. But she is finally determined to get what she wants, now all she needs to do is find her Mr. Forever, a man who will love her, honor her, and protect her and their family for forever instead of running off like most of the men in her pride does. The only problem is that means giving up her relationship with Michael, a younger man then her who make her toes curl whenever she thinks about him.

However, will Michael let her go that easily as she assumes? Or will he try proving to her that she has all she needs right in him?

My Book Review : 3 out of 5 stars, I did like book 1 more so then this one. However, the relationship between Michael and Mara has great chemistry that I just loved reading about! Plus, add the fact that Michael has problems with his true nature, and it just adds to the drama and intrigue, so I just had to finish the book to see how it ended up.

PS -- I don't like the book cover since she looks too young for the Mara I have pictured in my mind. Especially since Mara is supposed to be almost 35 yrs old.

My Previous Review(s) for this Series : Book 1

Book Teaser(s) :
The idea that young, impetuous and uncontrolled Michael might actually have had feelings for her...it was too ludicrous. But the memory of his rage brought her up short. Could that possibly be the explanation? Was Michael Minor in love with her?
The answer to the question leapt into her mind as another question, harsh but necessary. Did it matter if he was? ~ within Chapter 5

For more information on this book, series, and/or any other books by Vivi, then please check out the book's website.



** This site is a participant in various affiliate advertising programs through Amazon.com, Rakuten Marketing, Commission Junction, IndieBound, Smashwords, Book Depository, and more that are designed to provide a means for Jess to earn minimal advertising fees by showcasing the areas you can purchase the corresponding products that Jess discusses within her blog posts.
All of these affiliate links are obvious as to which ones they are.
**



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September 2010 Contest Winner!



Erinberry


Congrats Erin!!! You just won a copy of "Before I Fall" by Lauren Oliver!

I have emailed you about this too ... so please respond with your mailing address within 48 hours so I can get that mailed out to you as soon as I can!!

Thank you to all of those who signed up for this contest and who started following my blog recently!! Now don't forget to check out my October Contest, which should be posted by noon today at the latest!!

Thanks again! ♥ Jess



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