Blog Tour + Giveaway : In Harmony by Helena Newbury

   Welcome to my stop for Helena Newbury's newest book , "In harmony" hosted by Ms. Shane of  Itching for books  http://www.itchingforbooks.com/ . This was  my second time joining her tours and I am always delighted  to be reviewing such wonderful books! And "In harmony" is definitely a wonderful book! Today , I am doing  my review, favorite quote and playlist.

Here's an info about the book: ( Don't forget to add this book on your TBR list and enter the giveaway found at the end of my review! )


Release date: September 21st 2013

Publisher: Foster & Black New Adult

BOOK DESCRIPTION:

Everyone expects her to succeed….

Karen plays the cello like an angel, and it’s the only thing that makes her truly feel alive. But her father’s dream—for her to join a prestigious orchestra—leaves no time in her life for anything but music…not even love. Trapped on her path, she doesn’t know how to rebel.

Everyone expects him to fail….

Connor plays rock guitar like the devil himself, and his ability has got him all the way from a dead-end life in Belfast to a scholarship at Fenbrook Academy. But beneath his arrogance and charm, he doesn’t believe he has what it takes. He’s spent his time in New York drinking and partying, and the only future he sees is a return to Ireland as soon as he flunks out.

But what no one expects….

When Karen’s duet partner is injured, the bad boy guitarist and the shy, sheltered cellist are forced to team up. Neither likes the idea, but what begins as anger and distrust slowly spirals into love…and lust. If they can face up to their feelings, they might just have a chance together. If Connor will allow Karen to stop his fall, maybe he can show her a life she never thought possible....

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Helena Newbury is a New Adult Romance author with a love of bakingly hot summer days, strawberry gelato, good coffee and interesting people. Unlike the characters in her books, Helena cannot dance, act or play anything (though she is substantially more flexible since she started writing Dance For Me and tried doing dancer’s stretches, so she's hoping that something will rub off on her from each book).

Helena writes in a very noisy, very busy coffee shop which means she sometimes end up mainlining caffeine to keep her seat. You’ll know when this happens because she’ll still be on Twitter that night at 4am.

She loves meeting and talking with other authors, traveling to new places and discovering new books. You can find her on:

www.helenanewbury.com | @HelenaAuthor | facebook.com/HelenaNewburyAuthor

                               Here's my Review:

   This was my first time to read a Helena Newbury book, and what can I say? It was really good! The written words took me inside Fenbrook Academy and met the super shy ( and I say, painfully shy) Karen Montfort.  When I say painfully shy , it  means dreading to talk in public ever! Yes! Even in front of her colleagues?! I felt Karen. Imagine, having the right answers inside her head but can't spill it out? So, she keeps it to herself. The result? She can't pass presentations ..but she needs to graduate, her dad ( a famous pianist! ) expects it from her. You can sense the pressure there? Yes! A heavy one! Her only hope is to impress the judges during her recital at the end of the semester! So, failing was never an option!

     Karen spent most  of her college years (and time) in her so-called comfort zone...  her beloved Cello ( and more Cello practices!)  and a limited circle of  very pretty friends, Jasmine, Clarissa and Natasha . While her girlfriends are blabbing about their sexually charged relationships...our Karen here , invents a story of her non-existent boy toy. Or was it  her battery operated buddy ( Dildo?!) to warm up her nights?! *shocker!*

     Playing / practicing her Cello and going after her dream of New York Philharmonic... was her life? Or was it her father's dream?

“The decision was this: I was going to play with the New York Philharmonic.

That’s a cute dream and a nice ambition when your father’s a normal guy. When he’s a concert pianist with a string of bestselling albums, things are different.”

   Everything is going well.. Until her Duet partner, Dan was mugged one night and as a result his hand got injured! Ohhhhhh no000.... Noooo... No..no.....How could this thing happen???? Karen felt that it's the end of the world! She desperately needed a partner!!  It was  a take it or leave it. She has no choice. And arrogant, sexy guitarist Connor was the last person she had in mind! 

“I looked up into his face. Blue-gray eyes, like a lazy summer’s day that’s darkening into a storm. Hair cut short and messy, glossy black against his pale skin. And the lips—those soft, full lips that had been the downfall of so many Fenbrook girls in downtown rock clubs or at drug-fueled parties. Even now, they were twisting into a smirk.

Connor Locke.”

“For Connor, Fenbrook was one big party.

For me, it felt like life and death.”

      Shy Cello meets obnoxiously loud electric  Guitar. Connor was more than trouble she can handle and if she is smart, avoid at all cost!  How can these two opposites work together?  Will they blend or will they clash?  My interest was  instantly piqued. 

      As these unlikely duo was thrown together by music, slowly they begun to discover something  about themselves.,. and with each other...and how to deal with the growing attraction?

     This book was written on Karen's POV. I can say, that this girl has a lot in her mind...mostly insecurities and fear that she may be wrong. So , instead of giving the right advice for her friends, she decides just to listen , and say "everything's gonna be fine" when clearly it not. It must feel like ..Arrrrgh! to be in Karen's shoes. Yes, I can feel  that discomfort.  Spending time with Connor  ( on their practices ) has been....uhm, another discomfort? Connor's nearness ( even the mere brush of his fingers?! )  has stirred her "senses"... and darkest fantasies?! UH-oh.  Clearly this shy girl is lusting after Mr.Trouble?!

    I love their  beautiful moments together. I can't even describe how I felt about it.  It was swoony  in a ticklish way?! Was that even possible?  Yes. Because I felt it. And I think Karen felt it too!

   One of my fave scenes was when they were both accidentally locked up in  a  dark storage room. Imagine, the panic Karen felt?! From the dark? Probably. But to be alone ..with Connor? Eeeep! Freaking out!  Should she spill out what she truly felt? It's dark ..and they are alone, sounds  perfect moment huh? I was actually holding my breath and silently screaming, " This got to be it! Please , dear Lord , this should be it! " Go, Kiss her, Connor!( Yes, I even prayed! haha. ) Well, what happen next... has something to do with a jumping spider and Karen was found in her bra and closer to Connor when her friend Jasmine came into the rescue! But NOTHING happened between them?! Good heavens! It was funny , awkward! I was giggling! 

       I was waiting and waiting for their moment to happen.. and again, holding my breath! When will these two realize that they are just perfect for each other? ...And then when it finally happened, it was the sweetest surprise ! Those three little words were finally blurted out in the most unexpected moment... Right after a fist fight?! Really, Connor?! Yeah. Really. I loved it! 

     I love the way Ms Newbury wrote it using music itself. Melody, rythym are written into words! Even the love scenes ( errrr..the sex!) were hotly well-described ! It was slow at first..then started to build up till both of them reach.... the ....tah-da! ( Timid Cello and wild ,loud guitar combined!) ...final cresendo! It was mind blowing! *fanning myself furiously!*  Uh-oh...wait!  Am I still describing their bedroom scene or their final recital?! 

    Shy Karen was surprised how Connor's touch changed her, once uptight ...now she begun to loosen up. It even showed when she played her Cello... Free flowing...and something sensual and surprisingly sexy.

    Same thing with Connor, Karen change him into something better. When he thinks he'll fail, Karen was there to say he can do it. She believed in him. He will not fail.  And together they  overcome  what seems to be impossible.

    I loved the ending. It was the grandest performance ever! The way it was described and written was so good , like I was actually there watching and hearing them perform. Their story was weaved into music ...with all the emotion and passion they shared. It was all there! It was beautiful. I was there ,with the crowd...applauding and giving them standing ovation.

    “Connor broke off with a flourish and slapped the guitar’s wood, and I filled with a flurry of notes. Seconds later, he did it again, faster and more violent than before, and I filled again, the bow an extension of me. He did it one final time, a hard slap that reverberated around the hall, and I gave it everything I had, coaxing notes from the cello faster than I could think about them, operating on instinct alone. Connor came back in for the final bar, cello and guitar winding around each other like lovers, hard and soft embracing, and we were done.”

   If you want to see and feel how  Karen's Cello and Connor's guitar made me feel giddy , swoon and made my heart swell a little bit more? Go grab this book and find out yourself. 

( check out the buy links below!) 

http://www.amazon.com/dp/B00FAUSSC2/?tag=helenanewbury-20

http://www.amazon.ca/dp/B00FAUSSC2/

http://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B00FAUSSC2/?tag=helenanewbury-21

http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/?ean=2940148587477

http://www.kobobooks.com/search/search.html?q=1230000185312

http://www.allromanceebooks.com/product-inharmonynewadultromance-1300442-149.html

                             My playlist:

"You give me something" by James Morrison   http://youtu.be/UZp6dhheriM

"Moonshine by Bruno Mars  http://youtu.be/a7yFkCMGrLY

I'm giving this book:

5 perfect harmony stars! 

   

You can enter the giveaway found below for a chance to win a $50 amazon gift card or 
e-book copies of   Dance for me & In Harmony

a Rafflecopter giveaway

My Review: Simple Perfection by Abbi Glines

From Goodreads:
Woods had his perfect life mapped out for him. Rise up the ranks of the family business. Marry the rich girl of his parents’ dreams. Pretend that wealth and privilege was all he’d ever wanted. Then a girl named Della breezed into town, a beautifully imperfect stranger who captured his heart and opened his eyes to a new kind of future. Woods is ready and willing to sacrifice everything for her when the sudden death of his father leaves him with his mother to care for and a business to manage.

Della is determined to be strong for Woods, even as she’s quietly falling to pieces. No matter how far from home she’s run, the ghosts of her past have never stopped haunting her. Struggling to hide her true feelings from Woods, Della fears she can’t be his rock without dragging him down into the darkness with her. But is she strong enough to let go of the last thing holding her together?

                                My Thoughts:

     This was me BEFORE Simple Perfection  came out:

    Yes, I am desperately trying to entertain myself with almost anything?! Twisted Perfection left me with a cliffhanger that made me feel sooo sad..and empty. ( Am I depressed?  Uh-oh, I hope not!)  I am so close to losing it... ( so dramatic?! ---Well, I am!) And then..... I saw Ms. Abbi Glines' announcement.... Simple Perfection is  finally OUT!

     My dark, cold days  ( again, the dramatics! hehe.) begun to shift into something bright and beautiful.... I actually saw the light! Uhmm, I think it's coming from the glare of my computer screen?? Haha.  Hello, Amazon! I was one-click away from getting this book finally on my hands!  So, I CLICKED.

  So, with Simple Perfection finally INSIDE my book reader... I was looking a lot like this! Panting and short of breath . Woods..Woods... Woods!!!! I missed you so much!!  I want to hug you,kiss you, squeeze your hard... body ( I know what you are thinking! Haha!) I try hard to contain myself  but failed. So, I silently scream inside! Ahhhhhhhhhhhhh!!!! It's more than excitement!

Boy! I was more glad to finally see Woods and Della together.  These two literally sizzles and burn . I always love their sexy times. Woods and his"moves" was always way, way hotter as it gets!

     Okaaaay... before I start to fangirl ( again! ) Let's go on  with my review.

    I love everything about this book!  ( and ALL Abbi Glines books! )  My only complaint was it's too short! (  Only 600 pages on my book reader--- I want a thousand pages at least! hehe. )  But, well.... if it has the yummy Woods all over it?! What's not to like... or love for that matter! Plus, I need my "Woods fix" quick!

    After Woods Dad passed away, he was forced to come back to Rosemary and face the responsibility of taking over his  family's  Empire. Running their family business was  never easy when his Mom is all pain in the ass! ( I never liked her! ) Plus the Psycho Angelina was pestering him and threatening  and actually tried to beat up  our sweet, fragile Della?!  Good thing , our bad ass Blaire came into the rescue with her gun?! Yes! a gun!  I love Blaire Finlay even more!

    Woods was torn between the pressure of running a company and keeping Della safe . I can imagine the stress Woods is handling and it was not easy. Della continues to have this episodes when not with Woods... the terror of her past  and what she might become ( like her mom ) was tormenting her. And seeing Woods have to deal with it, makes her a lot insecure and feels so useless not to do anything about it.  So she made a "make it or break it" decision... to leave Rosemary  behind.. let Woods go .. but , is she strong to leave the only person that can keep herself together?

      What happens between the prologue and epilogue is something that let me held my breath. I am with Della as she struggles to face her inner demons and fears. As fragile as I think she was, I admire this new Della.  She is indeed stronger than she thinks she is. It's also great to see Tripp and her best friend , Braden  all supportive. And Woods! My goodness! I have fallen so hard for this guy!

   “You're my all-in, Della. I'll throw it all away for you. I just want you. I'm all in, baby. This life with you, I'm planning on us.”

     To be away from Della was more than torment. But what he did? He let Della go ...even if it torn him apart. Knowing how possessive and protective Woods?! And to think Tripp was with her, to hold her when she screams at night, when she was afraid... that should  be Woods. Still he let Della heal at her own pace and terms. 

       When he plead Tripp to take care of Della with these words:

“Hold her for me. Hold her tight. Don't let her be lonely. Don't let her hurt. Please.”

     I was completely blown away!  That's hopeless, desperate , madly in love  Woods can get! I swooned. I cried. I felt it. Woods. Woods. Woods!  

      I love the turn of events as the story goes along. The truth Della discovered about herself and who she really is... I sighed a breath of relief. I think that truth made a great impact  to make her realized that all the fears that she had  are all just part of the past and will not dictate what she will become.  Love. Loved Della. I want to hug her and say, "I know you can do it." 

      I also love how Ms. Abbi Glines  included  something about Grant and Tripp and a glimpse of their stories. Looks like a very interesting teaser for her coming books! Which I will surely  be looking forward to! 

      The ending  was great. That was the ending I was expecting! And thank goodness no cliffhanger! Though, I'm a little bit sad that Woods and Della's story finally ended.. ( got a little separation anxiety! --as I always had when reading really good stories!) ...but I'm really happy for them.  Plus I got another story to look forward... Grant and Harlow... Tripp and Bethy?  Thanks to you, Ms. Abbi Glines! 

               I'm giving this book:

              5 wonderful ,touching stars!

 

My review: Arsen by Mia Asher

 
From Goodreads:
I'm a cheater.
I'm a liar.
My whole life is a mess.

I love a man.
No, I love two men…
I think.

One makes love to me. The other sets me on fire.
One is my rock. The other is my kryptonite.

I'm broken, lost, and disgusted with myself.

But I can't stop. This is my story.
My broken love story.

                      My Thoughts:

    Infidelity , unfaithfulness... those were just  few words that make most of us frown,  pre-judge it as something very wrong.. and oftentimes , a taboo. We are aware that it's  breaking relationships, wrecking homes and most of all destroying LOVE and TRUST.  But how do we usually deal with it? By pretending it's not happening?
   
    When it happened to someone I knew, I begun to question myself. Was love never be enough? Why give in to the temptation ? Was it really worth it? And most of all , why betray the person who truly loves you?
   
    As I choose to read this book, I was thinking ( and hoping ) that maybe my questions will be answered. So, here I am  about to discover how Cathy Stanwood finally decided to wear the scarlet letter "A".

   This book was mostly written under her Point of View. As I get to know Cathy, I can say that she is one lucky woman! She was married to the most wonderful, understanding, supportive husband named Ben who would do anything, everything to make her happy! It was clearly established even at the beginning how both of them are crazy, deeply, madly in love with each other! I loved it when Ms. Mia Asher showed me a glimpse of Cathy's past specially how she met Ben. Running into the pouring rain and literally smacking into this guy with the warmest chocolate brown eyes?! Next thing happened: their eyes locked and with all the unexplained force of nature , they kissed! You may think  , it's so cliche, right? But it works for me! Because, I'm a sucker for  kissing under the rain!!!!   *sigh and swoons simultaneously*

     It's unbelievable, I know  right? But for me, uber romantic! *dreamy sigh*  It was so clear that these two are "meant to be". A connection was instantly made. It was love at first sight.

  I also noticed Cathy's insecurities like being plain ? Like she can't believe how come the gorgeous , almost perfect Ben fall for her?! Well, Cathy  go figure that later...when another guy will come into the picture with same reason!  ( and I can't believe it either! *rolls eyes*)

   So, it's only a matter of time when Ben  proposed ( as expected! ) and of course Cathy said YES! Next: these two lovebirds got married ...and expects a happily ever after? Not quite. After 3 miscarriages, Cathy begun to question her "inadequacy" as a woman? And instead of opening this up with her husband..she kept this to herself. How could you not, Cathy?

   Then enter Arsen. Just the mere name, I already mistook as Arson which ( per legal dictionary) means the malicious burning or exploding  another's property?! So fitting huh?  Arsen's hot, intense, piercing blue eyes and fuck-prize ( uh! please excuse the word!) body  burned Cathy's desire! Ugh. Let me remind you again, dear Cathy... you are soooo married! Totally unavailable. Okaaaaay.... That was clearly established then. Still,  I can't help but to look at Arsen once again....Ahhhhh! Just look at him! Arsen could literally burn your panties down in just one glance! SIN was written all over that face!!

      

“It’s funny that his name reminded me of fire because he certainly looked like someone who could burn you to the ground. With just one look, he made me feel as if my body was burning scarlet”

“His nearness is crowding me. The insignificant contact of our bodies makes me want to fidget in  my seat, and his words make me want to get up and flee away from him and what they just made me feel.

Excitement.”

“So many warring thoughts are running through my head; fear, dislike, shock, but the voice that is the loudest is lust.”

      See? There's definitely something going on there!  And I don't like it. 

         Cathy tried to fight it... and told herself to be just Arsen's friend. Seriously, Cathy?!!! Keep on telling that yourself.  How can you be friends with someone who flirts with you every chance he got?! And let's you watch him screw another woman?!  Have you gone mad ?? And you want to be friends with this devil?? Arrrrghhhh! *pulls my hair out*

       As Cathy feared, she had another miscarriage and she went on the edge. She cannot take it to the point of being depressed. Ben was there holding her .. he is there for her. But what did Cathy do? She pushed him away! I EFF-FING can't believe she open up herself ( literally & figuratively speaking! ) to Arsen but not to her husband?! UNBELIEVABLE!  *hands up in surrender!* 

    Cathy's vulnerability  + Arsen's  power of persuasion?! ( along with his sinfully delicious touch and kisses?!)  = drove Cathy to finally cheat on her husband!  I started to SCREAM!!!!!!!!!!!!  and ALMOST threw my book reader away! ...but wait, my eyes and hand are still glued to  this evil device! I just can't put it down! Ms . Mila Asher.... *groans* you are sooooo good!!! 

     The rest of the book, I was drowned with heavy emotions,  mostly hatred for Cathy . Boy!  she even tried to justify it with the lamest excuses , but my mind was already closed. No matter how I look at it, in all angles, what she did was beyond wrong. She was selfish when she made that choice. My  heart swelled for Ben, poor , poor Ben.. I can't believe  that he loved Cathy that much? And the more I hated Cathy. Oh, I  hope karma will  knock off your face, Cathy. You don't deserve Ben!
    
      My silent plea was finally heard when the much awaited KARMA strikes back! And the recipient? No other than Cathy. Oh karma is a bitch , you deserve it! Now, you want to come running back to Ben? I don't think so. Nuh-uh?! 

       I should be smiling with glee right now, but surprise.. surprise , I felt a pang of pity for Cathy. She was trying so hard to make amends to the mistakes she made. Now, that this unexpected surprise happened to her. She tried her best to moved on, though it's so hard when she closes her eyes each night, it was Ben's kind, sweet chocolate eyes she sees. Was it too late?  All the hatred I felt for Cathy vanished and was replaced with admiration? I even felt my tears fell for her... and silently hope that it's not too late...

       I love the ending. It was  brilliant. With sweaty palms and beating heart, I was there with Cathy in the pouring rain, just like when she and Ben first met...Hoping.  Then it happened.  A moment that promised a beautiful beginning. Tears rolled over my face, I hugged my book reader.. and smiled.

        “I didn't realize how important Ben was to me until he was gone. Arsen became the air I needed to breathe, but Ben was my lungs. What good would air be if I didn't have lungs to begin with?”

                            My Playlist:

"Wrecking ball" by Miley Cyrus http://youtu.be/y35RAS7kht8

"Unfaithful" by Rihanna http://youtu.be/rp4UwPZfRis

                             I'm giving this book:

     5 will-drown-you- with-a-lot-of-emotions stars! 

     
    
***Pictures and Gifs found here are from google***
    

      

 

My Review: Perfect Chemistry by Simone Elkeles

 
From Goodreads: 

When Brittany Ellis walks into chemistry class on the first day of senior year, she has no clue that her carefully created 'perfect' life is about to unravel before her eyes. She's forced to be lab partners with Alex Fuentes, a gang member from the other side of town, and he is about to threaten everything she's worked so hard for: her flawless reputation, her relationship with her boyfriend, and the secret that her home life is anything but perfect. 

Alex is a bad boy and he knows it. So when he makes a bet with his friends to lure Brittany into his life, he thinks nothing of it. But soon Alex realizes Brittany is a real person with real problems, and suddenly the bet he made in arrogance turns into something much more.

                                  My Thoughts :

     Science  says that opposites attracts. Positive  attracts negative and concerning magnets North attracts South. That's what I am about to find out ...and something more  when I started reading this book.

      Brittany Ellis and Alejandro Fuentes are the two complete opposite of the magnet. North and South. Brittany is beautiful, rich, popular and the girlfriend of the Captain of their school's football  and the envy of all the  team , I know it sounds so cliche! ( it is!) . Looks like she got everything , right?  But then that  is how her parents want her to be.  Their Perfect daughter for the world to see. But that's not how it is home where her parents tried to keep their "secret" .. her older sister Shelly who has the disability that makes her  "not normal".

      Brittany has to keep this perfect facade all along specially at school. Everything  should be glitch-free , good grades, good friends, perfect boyfriend and pristine reputation. Because that was expected of her. Period. She has no idea that all this would start to change when Alex Lucas was assigned to be her Chemistry partner.  She cannot believe it! Of all the people why Alex???

    Who is Alex Fuentes ? His "Bad boy" reputation precedes him. Everyone at school avoid him like a plague specially the ones from the north side. Moreover, Alex is from the south side and a member of a notorious gangster?  Messing with them is a death wish.  But behind this hard and tough exterior is a son and a brother who would do anything to protect his family... and also the main reason why he joined the gang.

   Being Brit's Chem partner was far from his imagination. Sure , he thinks Brit is too pretty ( as all the guys thinks so! ) but he couldn't stand the way she  looks at him and treats him.. like a dirt! He thought Brittany's  a snob and a fake just like everyone else in north side. Looks like this two have their first impressions gone so wrong! Tsk. Tsk.

    So, when he and his south side friends dare him to get into Brit's pants in exchange for a car? ( Seriously?!) he took the Bet! At first, I was like, " Really , Alex? your'e such a douche!" IS there peer pressure involved here???? Unbelievable!

Alright then, the bet is on! If he wins he gets the car...if he loses his friend will have his Julio! ( Yes his bike??!- the love of his life at the moment?! ) So, he can't lose!

    What's the game plan? Seduce Brittany. It should be simple with his hot bod and bad boy good looks! But think again, Alex. 1. Brit  had a golden boy boyfriend  which would most likely kick your ass ( not a threat?!) and most importantly, 2. Brit HATES him! Uhmm,  this would be a challenge... unless you , Alex wants a tough one? Oh, so it is  "ON"?! Apparently it is, when he started to wonder what is really like to get to know Brittany.

“How the hell did I ever think I
could lure the very beautiful, very rich, and very white Brittany Ellis into my very poor, very Mexican, and very dark life”

     I love how Ms. Simone Elkeles wrote this book. I know , this sounds  like a typical bad boy meets good girl kind of story.. but the way it was written... is really , really good! Like you'll probably gonna know what will happen next but still you can't put it down? Because you just have to know  it yourself! To see it in your own eyes . Yes, I am truly drawn into the story and specially the characters. They are real. And what they are going through.. was really happening out there.

     I can't also help but to giggle and actually have fun with  Brit and Alex bickering in and out the chemistry class. Alex , no matter how he like to be mean / ass .. ended up really adorable ass! And when he start checking out Brit?  And Brit starting to notice his sexy features? Well, well... now it looks like the Law of Attraction was really  put into test?!

     When they are assigned to do a research on "hand warmers" ... oh ! I actually smirk! And yeah, what will happen next would surely be interesting! Like , as if they will need it  when ..a ( sexual -Uh-oh) tension comes along?! No choice but to hang out outside class ( or else fail chemistry?!)  Brit and Alex got to know each other and discovered that there's something more than meets the eye. That somewhat they are different but also the same.

“We're actors in our lives, pretending to be who we want people to
think we are.”

     When they peel off each layer, the more they become drawn to each other which I thought, was inevitable? How can Brit deny her growing attraction  for Mr tough guy? ( but a softie deep inside?! )  When she begun to wonder how it feels to be kissing Alex lips? Same thing was happening to Alex too. How soft was Brit's skin when he touches it..and her lips?  ...But then , the bet is still on?  was it? Or was they surprisingly begun to fall in love?

     Oh, I forget to mention, there are a lot of SWOON moments in this book! One of my faves was when Alex gave Brit a driving lesson.  A real driving lesson! ( I hope you don't have "anything else" on mind?! Haha. ) The way Alex "accidentally" brush his fingers  and held Brit's hands.... send shivers to my skin! Oh it feels real too me! Love, loved how you wrote that scene, Ms. Simone! And on desperately  kissing Alex on his bike..under the pouring rain??? Awwwwwww! I'm toast! I want to be kissed like that!  What's with this kissing under the rain??? I just love , loved it!   ( No further explanation required!)

    If you want a little action and suspense aside from the romance... this book still got it. Oh there are fist fights and guns .. what's a gangsta without some violence here and then? And when Alex had to choose between his "gang duties" and Brit? I almost hold my breath.. and it broke my heart just like Brit's. Sigh. It was a tough decision to make.

   I loved the ending. Everything turn out to be good for both Alex and Brit. The message was clear: Love conquers all. And this was specially true for both Alex and Brit.

 
                              My Playlist :

"The Way" by Ariana Grande http://youtu.be/2O3AOhEufyo

                     I'm giving this book :

             4 Perfect Chemistry stars!

My Review : Playing for keeps by R. L. Mathewson

                                               
From Goodreads:
Done with being the world's biggest pushover, Haley decides that things are going to change starting with the aggravating neighbor who has too much charm and not enough restraint. What she didn't expect was to be sucked into his world, but Haley has a game plan and she won't let herself forget just what the bad boy next door is capable of. 

The last thing Jason expected was for his little shy neighbor to go Rambo on him over some ruined flowers. After he decides to take her under his wing he can't help but notice that she fits very nicely in his life. Now the only thing left is to convince her that this is anything but a game.

                             My Thoughts:


     It's been a long time since I laugh-read-giggled-laugh-read. Yes! In that particular order! ( and on repeat mode! ) This book has been sitting on my shelf  for a long time. I've read a lot of "heavy" books, and when I say heavy it means emotion filled... mostly angst and world shattering , mind blowing cliffhangers. Not that I'm complaining ( I love playing with my different emotions! ---what's wrong with me?! ) ...but I think I needed a change of scenery? And this book? Just perfect!

   The story started when Haley, the world's greatest pushover was finally push into her limits  over a ruined tulip flowerbed! Yes, for  ruined flowers ...her vision blur and has seen red! Like it's World War 3!!  And who could be the recipient of this virulent wrath no other but her douche ..but Uhmmm, really attractive neighbor, Jason! I found myself giggle imagining this two fight like  5 year olds! And what a perfect timing when a swarm of bees begun attacking them?! Oh, I should be thanking the bees... because that is the start of their unlikely friendship!

    I really, really  love the characters, specially Haley whom I can personally relate! Yes, I am a pushover..well at least I once was. I know how it feels when you have to smile , nod and pretend it's okay but deep inside your'e feel like revolting and want to explode and burn the world?! That intense?! Feels like it! Haha.  And there's the neighbor from hell, Jason! Well, he is an ass most of the time but can't help but to adore him! And when he attacked Haley's chocolate brownies with peanut frosting like a starved little boy?! I was instantly smitten! I always had a weakness for guys ( specially the really attractive ones?! ) with a BIG...( Uh-oh not that ! *dirty mind!* haha. ) ...big appetite for sweets! And when I say big it's huge! Like he can wipe clean an entire bowl but still asking for more ( and no sharing -policy?!) ?!! Oh my! Where is he putting those calories then?! In his well sculpted pecs and abs?! *groans then blushes*

    I love how the story goes. It's not insta-love nor insta-attraction which were most of the book themes that I've read lately ( kinda cliche!) Jason and Haley became good friends..well most of the time! When they are not trying to sabotage one another. Like Jason acting like a jerk ( a cute jerk! ) when he tried to scare away Haley's prospect dates?! His ways? believe me... are creatively hilarious!  I was laughing out loud!

    And you think "pushover" Haley would give in? Revenge is sweeter than her brownies with peanut butter frosting! What a better way of torturing Jason but through food?! Imagine, Jason all tied up...  and Haley  eating / finishing those brownies in front of him?! Ooooohhh.. this is so going well..and better when Haley shaved his body hair?! Like armpits and legs?! Way too much to emasculate our poor baby Jason! Torture?! You can say that again! Haha.

     As time passes by, their friendship goes deeper... the more comfortable they are with each other. Comfortable as in, Haley's fridge becomes Jason's constant source of sustenance?!  They even share a bed together! Oh yeah, that's "super comfortable"?!  It's kinda weird for a sleeping arrangement, don't you think? But then again ... they sleep better when together! Hah! Now this becomes tricky when it becomes intimate?! Clue: Jason...and Haley's raging hormones?! Like they can stand not to get burned at the close proximity of their warm bodies?! Looks impossible? But not to Jason! YES! The exact Jason I knew who can never resist even the faint smell of dessert...BUT can resist his...uhmmm, bodily urges?! IMPOSSIBLE!!! But then, he'll do anything for his little grasshopper, Haley ! I really loved that nickname!

    I love how Ms. R. L. Mathewson wrote her characters. Haley and Jason are both lovable from beginning up to end page. I won't be surprise if I would become a Jason-Haley fan. I am really , really rooting for these two to end up together even when I just started reading it. They are just perfect for each other.  I watch them fight ( like little kids!) , become good friends.... and grew something more  deeper...and uhhmm, hotter! If that's what you call a make out session, how much more for the "real act" ?! If I tell you, what these two has been doing inside the four corners of their bedrooms ? It was SUPER STEAMY!! And ABSOLUTELY NOT for  minors! *covers eyes and grinning!*

    I love it when Haley finally came out of her shell and learn to how to assert herself. And Jason? From douche player to a total hopeless Romeo! What a transformation!  And I find it super cute when he goes all Alpha male for Haley. Like he wants to beat the hell out of any guy  checking out "his Haley" ?! Oh yeah. Even his friends?!  No one was spared.

    The conflict begun  when both started to  question one's feelings and intention for each other. Who's playing around and and who's playing for keeps? Can  Jason prove that he wants to be more than Haley's sleeping buddy?  Can Haley give in to what she truly felt for Jason?

  If you want to see how this cookie ( choco brownie ) monster fell in love with his little grasshopper ? Or how this little grasshopper jumped into her cookie monster's heart?  Go read this book and fall in love like I do.


    

                     I'm giving this book:

           4 sweetest Chocolate brownie stars! 

***Pictures and  Gifs on this blog are from Google****
 


 

My Review: Stripped by Jasinda Wilder

 
From Goodreads:

 So how did I get myself into this situation, you ask? Simple: desperation. When you're faced with being homeless and hungry or taking off your clothes for money, the choice is easier than you'd imagine. That doesn't make it easy, though. Oh no. I hate it, in fact. There's nothing I'd like more than to quit and never go into another bar again, never hear the techno beat pulsing in my ears again, never feel the lecherous gazes of horny men again.

Then, one day, I meet a man. He's in my club, front and center. He watches me do my routine, and his gaze is full of hunger. Not the kind of desire I'm used to though. It's something different. Something hotter, deeper, and more possessive. I know who he is; of course I do. Everyone knows who Dawson Kellor is. He's People Magazine's Sexiest Man alive. He's the hottest actor in Hollywood. He's the man hand-picked for the role of Rhett Butler in the long-awaited remake of Gone With the Wind. 

He's the kind of man who can have any woman in the entire world with a mere crook of his finger. So what's he doing looking at me like he has to have me? And how do I resist him when he looks at me with those intoxicating, changeable, quicksilver eyes? 

I'm a virgin, and he's an American icon of male sexuality. I'm a stripper, and he's a man used to getting anything and everything he wants. And he wants me. I know I should say no, I know he's the worst kind of player…but what my mind knows, my body and my heart may not.

And then things get complicated.                                   

                             My Thoughts:

    This is my first Jasinda Wilder book and I admit, I was more intrigue with its blurb. Grey is a stripper who happens to be a virgin?  So, I was thinking... Interesting. How come?

     As I flipped through the pages, I got my answer. Grey is a sheltered daughter of a pastor. When I say sheltered it means sheltered from the "worldly things"  which her strict father considers sinful. Dancing is Grey's passion and also into filming. Her dad was against to all of these. And Grey, being stubborn and really wanted to prove that she can make it, went  to pursue her dream. No matter what.

     Being independent was never easy for Grey specially when her college fund started to deplete. And again, as stubborn as she is, she never ask for any help... Specially from her dad. So , instead of swallowing her pride and go call Daddy? She go look for a job.. and ended up as an exotic dancer..a stripper. She's Grey the ideal college student by day... and Gracie the "hesitant stripper " by night. Oh, she hates it so much , she cries and even throws up after each show. How can she stand being groped and feasted by lusty eyes each and every time.  But then she had to do it because she had no choice.

     Then she met Dawson Kellor....

    “Onscreen he’s breathtaking. Sharp features, penetrating hazel eyes, dark hair somewhere between brown and black. Tall and ridiculously ripped, with sculpted arms and a broad, hard chest. He’s Brad Pitt and Henry Cavill and Josh Duhamel and so much more”

“In person…he’s beyond perfection. I can’t look away from him, but his beauty burns me, like staring into the sun.

And now he’s in my club, and he’s staring at me expectantly, and I can’t move. His eyes are quicksilver, a changeable hazel. He’s too beautiful for words, and I’m not sure what to do. My body won’t work.”

         Clearly Grey was star-strucked? But it's more than that. Dawson's piercing eyes sees her through. In those eyes, she is not Gracie.. She is Grey. When he touched her..

" His hands touch me and I’m sucked in, and I’m not a stripper, for a moment. I’m clothed, and he’s looking at me. At me. Almost as if he’s seeing Grey, instead of Gracie, even though he couldn’t possibly know the difference.”

           Grey never let any man touch her... But Dawson's touch feels something...like there's a connection... And it scared and overwhelmed her at the same time.

   “I see his eyes, blue-shot gray, like lightning-laced storm clouds, and I hear his voice whispering to me: “You can’t resist me, Grey. You are mine, Grey”

     When Dawson offered to take care of Grey, ( pay for her college and stop being a stripper)  I started to worry that this book will turn out to be another BDSM , not that I'm against it. ( I like Fifty shades of Grey! ) So, this just Dawson's way of showing he cares? Why not? He is really, really filthy rich!  And he owns a freaking Bugatti!  But..... Again the "but" Grey, the stubborn ... Stubborn Grey  doesn't want to accept his offer / help?!  Now, I'm starting to get annoyed! She felt like she's being "bought"?!  Because she's a stripper? Arrrrgh! Why not take the offer when clearly she needs it? And she CLEARLY  wants Dawson?!  This so frustrating! Plus all the whining?! So..so immature!  And I don't like when she always try to run away from her so called problems? Like she feels ashamed of being a stripper but when Dawson offered her out, she won't take it?! Gosh! I just wanna smack her and shake her up! Like, seriously Grey? Wake up to reality?!!! Ugh.

     Being with Dawson was never easy. As famous as he is, paparazzi are along on his tail... and now, the attention's on her. Again, there's the insecure Grey, always afraid that they'll discover her secret, her past as a stripper. And again I want to sigh and roll my eyes! Of course they will find out! But so what?! You got the sexiest guy wrapped around your fingers! Arrrgh!  *shaking my head vehemently*

      Most of the story revolves around Grey's constant insecurities and running away...and Dawson's going after her rescue. *double ugh! * I just can't believe this girl?!  Can't you see, Grey?! Your'e  the luckiest girl alive?!  Ugh. 

      It's so ..so annoying. I really wanted to give a lower  rating... but then, the sexy Dawson  made me think twice.  Yes! I loved him!  And a potential book boyfriend for me! He's like my  Christian Grey minus the BDSM! Just perfect. And when, he says.."baby" or "babe" ?  So sexy! Not to mention his bedroom moves?! Makes me squirm and blush in ways inappropriate ! It's only rightful to call this man , Hollywood's sex god! Gosh, even his voice..the way I imagine it.. makes me hyperventilate! I just wish Ms. Jasinda Wilder, further elaborate his character because I want to get to know Dawson on a more personal level...uhmm, like,  knowing what's going on inside his sexy head ?! Yes, please! 

      If you are looking for a steamy short ( finished it within 24 hours! ) read ...this ones for you... plus there's Dawson Kellor ----definitely a hot, hot treat to feast on! 

                    I'm giving this book:

                  3 sexy , yummy stars!

***Note: Pictures and GIF's used on this blog are from Google. 

     

My Review : Origin by Jennifer L. Armentrout

 
From Goodreads:

Daemon will do anything to get Katy back.

After the successful but disastrous raid on Mount Weather, he’s facing the impossible. Katy is gone. Taken. Everything becomes about finding her. Taking out anyone who stands in his way? Done. Burning down the whole world to save her? Gladly. Exposing his alien race to the world? With pleasure.

All Katy can do is survive.

Surrounded by enemies, the only way she can come out of this is to adapt. After all, there are sides of Daedalus that don’t seem entirely crazy, but the group’s goals are frightening and the truths they speak even more disturbing. Who are the real bad guys? Daedalus? Mankind? Or the Luxen?
                            

                                     My Thoughts:

     My first reaction when I finally got hold of this book:

    YES! I'm so doing the Katy ( Perry ) Dance! haha. Feeling excited is an uderstatement! I can't even put into words how I felt. It was more of  elation or any word closer to that!  Opal left me with MUCH cliffhanger to really drive me nuts! So... Origin here I come... and HELLO there, Daemon Black.. *eyelash fluttering

    First few pages and I already felt Daemon's desperation to save the love of his life Katy. He'll burn the world just to get her?! Wooooooow! That intense? Yeah. Literally. But Daemon can DO ANYTHING , right? Because he is pure AWESOMENESS!

“I was terrified the whole time they had you and I didn’t know where you were. I was scared out of my mind that I would never see you again or get to hold you. And when I did see you? I was afraid I’d never hear you laugh again or see your beautiful smile. So, yeah, I lied. I was terrified. I’m still lying.”

    Oh, the infamous Area 51 was there! It exist?! And a LOT going on in there! ..Daemon, being Daemon Black.. did the unthinkable! What else he'll do if he really wants to be with his Kitten?! Oh. Yeah. There's DANGER written all over it.

   I love everything in this book! If you are looking for an explosive , heart pumping action sequences , you don't have to look far.. it's here! The whole Vegas scene was... beyond words! It's like watching an action movie in 3D! ( Can we ever read a book in 3D?! )  Everything is so alive! I was awestruck! Like Ka-Vooom! Explosion! Guns flying, helicopters and Arum?! It was chaos! I can even smell the smoke ..and the dust?! It was heart stopping. While reading I was ..Oh no! Noooooo!!!  with my eyes wide in terror!

   Yes, I was that carried away! Definitely one of my fave scenes! Wooooooooow!

   Then there's Archer, an Origin...and another one worth checking out. Uh- hmmm.. if you are into the broody types ? the silent but lethal??? Then he's the one. Is he a friend or a foe? Yes, he's an Origin ..another kind? And more powerful than the Luxen and Arum? Whoa! This getting more bizarre. See?!  The more pages I flipped through .. the  more interesting it gets!

  The Daemon-Katy tandem that I loved and adored is still there. Yes, there's always the sexy banters ...and  Daemon  always saying the "L" word to Katy. It was.... swoon! and sweet! ( coming from him?! ) And what happened in Vegas ....stays in Vegas! Yes! Yes! Yes! I need to control my mouth...coz it's definitely a SPOILER! The Kaidan Rowe - Anna Whitt thing?! That's pure ingenious! I love it! ( And I love Sweet Peril by Wendy Higgins! ) Definitely a smile-worthy moment!

 

     The ending was a.... What the heck just happened?!  Whatttttttttt on earth?!!!! Noooooooooo! I was panting like I've run a marathon! No..no...no!!! I can't barely breathe...

“I wasn’t sure Daemon even had a choice.

I wasn’t sure I did, either.” ( Katy )    <--------------- These were the last printed words?!!! And ...Nothing more????!  I can't believe it!!! *dumbstruck*

    Sooooo, I was told and  forewarned that this would end up a cliffhanger.   I thought I was prepared? But ...Nooooooooooooooooo!! It was an epic cliffhanger! And I'm in for a wild ride!  I don't think my heart can EVER  handle this?!
     Something REALLY HUGE is about to happen. And hell! I got to be there !! I. NEED. WANT. THE. NEXT. BOOK. ASAP. 

                      My Playlist:

"Radioactive" by Imagine Dragons   http://youtu.be/ktvTqknDobU

"Tiptoe" by Imagine Dragons  http://youtu.be/ajjj4pLnjz8

                    I'm giving this book:
      5 Heart stopping Light speed Luxen Stars!