Book Spotlight & Giveaway: Neverwas (Amber House #2) by Kelly Moore, Tucker Reed, and Larkin Reed

"I was sixteen the second time I had my first kiss...."

At the end of AMBER HOUSE, Sarah made a choice that transformed everything--and now she must choose it all again.

Things are very different--better--for Sarah and her family: her Aunt Maggie grew up; her parents are happily married; her grandmother died after a long, productive and respected life. But other things are different too, and not for the better.

After growing up in the free country of the Pacific Northwest, Sarah Parsons has settled in at Amber House, the stately Maryland home that's been in her family for generations. But the world surrounding the House feels deeply wrong to Sarah. It's a place where the colonists lost the 1776 Insurrection, where the American Confederation of States still struggles with segregation, and where Sarah is haunted by echoes of a better world that she knows never existed.

Her friend Jackson shares these visions of a different world--and together, they manage both to remember the way things ought to be, and to plan a daring mission that will reset the universe once again. Sarah must figure out what has changed, and why, and how she can fix it--how she can find her way to another otherwhen.

From goodreads.com

REVIEW:

   Neverwas is book two in the now trilogy of Amber House. If you guys remember, I reviewed book one last year and for me, it was a unique kind of a read. Well, Neverwas is like that. It's a story that is different and otherworldly. 
   The story picks up where we left off in book one, however, it's not the story that we know. This is a different universe, the choices of Sarah in book one changed the world that she knew. This part of the book was a  bit difficult to wrap my mind around. There are certain issues that are predominant in this book and they're not too pleasant to read about. Sarah has much to learn, about herself and the world around her, in order to become who she needs to be. 
   This book is different from the first one, but still deals with family and the consequences of the choices we make. Yes, the whole different reality because of one small thing in book one is very hard to believe, but this is a supernatural kind of a story so anything is possible really. More than anything, for me, this book read almost like a completely different story. It's been a while since I read book one, so a few of the aspects I didn't even remember. You honestly may even be able to read this as a stand alone. 
   Neverwas is an interested story. I liked Jackson in this one much more than the last book. Sammy is still Sammy, and Sarah still works at protecting him from the world. Overall, Neverwas is definitely a different kind of a sequel, full of characters you've met, but never seen quite like this. 

GIVEAWAY:

In NEVERWAS, Sarah must piece together the mystery of her forgotten past with the help of clues left behind by her great-grandmother, Fiona Warren.  For readers interested in the chance to win a signed first-edition hardback of NEVERWAS -- with an exclusive hint for what's in story for Sarah in the final book, OTHERWHEN, hidden inside -- visit each blog on the tour for the month of December, collect the various lines from the poem, arrange them in the proper order, and submit the final sonnet by January 10th for a chance to win the special copy of NEVERWAS!

ABOUT THE AUTHORS:

KELLY MOORE is a New York Times best-selling author, former litigator, and single mother of three. Her latest project, the young adult fiction series THE AMBER HOUSE TRILOGY, co-written with her two daughters and based loosely upon her own family history, examines fourteen generations of Maryland women and their ties to the past, present, and future.  The first book in the series was nominated for the 2014 Dolly Gray Children's Literature Award for its realistic portrayal of characters with autism; Moore is outspoken about her inclusion in the autism spectrum, and is dedicated to autism awareness.

TUCKER REED is an award-winning fiction and nonfiction writer.  She has been recognized on the national level for her short stories, essays and poetry.  She is also a notable political blogger and has appeared on CNN, CBS, ABC and HuffPost Live, as well as featured in articles published by TIME magazine, Marie Claire magazine, Ms. magazine, The Washington Post, The Los Angeles Times, and The Guardian, among numerous others.

LARKIN REED is a professional photographer, currently pursuing a Bachelor of Arts degree in filmmaking. In 2013, Reed established her own multimedia production company, and has subsequently produced and directed several short films.

BLOGS TO VISIT ON TOUR:

1. Whispering Pretty Stories [http://www.whisperingprettystories.com/2/post/2013/12/what-a-treat-for-today.html]
2. Marie Loves Books [http://marielovesbooks.blogspot.com/2013/12/blog-tour-neverwas-by-kelly-moore.html]
3. Bibliophilic Monologues [http://thebookwurrm.wordpress.com/2013/12/13/the-neverwas-blog-tour-giveaway/]
4. Books Take You Places [http://bookstakeyouplaces.com/2013/12/14/author-interview-and-giveaway/]
5. Annette's Book Spot [http://annettesbookspot.blogspot.com/2013/12/book-tour-and-review-neverwas-by-kelly.html]
6. Zach's YA Reviews [http://www.zachsyareviews.com/2013/12/blog-tour-interview-and-giveaway.html]

7. The Quiet Concert [http://thequietconcert.blogspot.com/2013/12/blog-tour-review-giveaway-neverwas.html]
8. Books and Cupcakes [http://books-cupcakes.tumblr.com/post/70414808057/neverwas-giveaway]
9. The Musings of ALMYBNENR [http://almybnenr.tumblr.com/post/70487964967/review-neverwas-by-kelly-moore-tucker-reed-larkin#.UrS8_PaE6lY]

10. Books Live Forever [http://booksliveforever.com/?p=16251]

11. Must Love Books [http://mustlovelabradors.blogspot.com/2013/12/blog-tour-review-neverwas.html]

The next stop on the tour:

13. Books and Whimsy [http://booksandwhimsy.com/]

Happy reading!

Valia

Book Spotlight: Through the Zombie Glass (White Rabbit Chronicles #2) by Gena Showalter

     Inspired by the childhood classic Alice in Wonderland, this harrowing and romantic story features teen zombie slayer Alice Bell who has lost so much—family, friends, her home. After a strange new zombie attack, Alice fears she may be losing her mind as well. A terrible darkness blooms inside her, urging her to do wicked things. The whispers of the dead assault her ears and mirrors seem to come frighteningly to life. She’s never needed her team of zombie slayers more—including her boyfriend, Cole—than she does now. But as Cole strangely withdraws and the zombies gain new strength, Ali knows one false step may doom them all.

From Goodreads.com

     Through the Zombie Glass picks up a bit after Alice in Zombieland ends. Ali is still recovering from the events of the previous book, while trying to figure out how to balance her normal life with her secret life. It may not be easy, but she's not alone. Cole, the gorgeous slayer and now Ali's boyfriend, is making sure she stays out of trouble. However, after a particular accident, Ali starts to experience things no one has experienced before. Trying to battle the forces of darkness is bad enough. Now, Ali must battle the forces within herself as well. 
     This book. THIS BOOK. If you remember my absolute love for book one, you'll be happy to know that love has intensified. I can't even begin to tell you how much I loved this one. I don't even know where to start. 
     Ali is seriously one of my favorite heroines. There's just something about her that you can totally relate to. However, she's still supernatural enough to make the storyline believable. I love her character, her struggles, her friendships, and of course, her relationship. I like how she pushes herself, how she strives to be better and protect those she loves. No matter the cost. Sure, just like any realistic character, she makes mistakes and drives you insane, but I think that just marks a well written story. She grew so much in this book, discovered things about herself and the world around her. And after all that, came out on top. 
     Now, let's talk about Cole. Oh dear goodness gracious, I really wanted to punch that boy in the face in this book. In a good way (yes, there is such a thing). I love him as the bad boy turned all protective and loyal. But seriously, dude, he really made me frustrated in the beginning. However, just like Ali, he grows into the kind of a person he ought to be and it was beautiful. I love those two together. They push each other. They make each other a better version of themselves. One of my favorite romances in YA right now. 
     The story in this book is amazing. Sure, some of it I kind of expected but I really believe Ms Showalter really delivered. Honestly guys, this book held none of the typical book two mediocrity that sometimes hits in the midst of a series. It was exciting and hilarious. Frustrating and unique. I love the characters, I love the storyline, I love the covers. I wish book three was out right now so I can re-read the whole series through. Seriously, if you haven't checked out these books yet, do it now! You won't regret it!
     Through the Zombie Glass is out September 24th, 2013! I'd love to hear your thoughts!

     Happy reading, 

     Valia 

Second Book Syndrome

So I've been trying to catch up on some reading lately. My TBR pile is seriously taken over my life, so it's a work in progress. But there is something that I've noticed in recent books that I kind of wanted to discuss here. 

Relationships in sequels. 

Here's a thing I've noticed. I like first books. The fresh perspective. That first discovery of the characters and the world they live in. I especially love the struggle that the two main characters go through when it comes to discovering who they are together. You know what I'm talking about. That chemistry, that spark that ignites, the woes of the "can we be together?" When it's done right that is. I'm not big on the whole insta-love aspect, I really don't think that's plausible, so forgive me for the skepticism. I love it when the characters develop as individuals before they become anything close to being a couple. 
There are a few examples of this that I really love. If you've been following me for any length of time, I'm sure you've seen me freak out over these books before. 

The Nightmare Affair by Mindee Arnett. You remember my love for this book right? One of the huge aspects of that was the fun and realistic development of the characters. It was about discovering who they are, and becoming better versions of themselves. There's just so much here, I don't even know what to say. Just read it people, if you haven't already. I can't wait to see what happens in book two. 

Another good example of this type of relationship is Sweet Evil by Wendy Higgins. I loved this book to pieces and I loved Anna and Kaidan's relationship. I enjoyed how honest they were with each other, the obstacles they have to go through every step of the way. And when the book ended, you still have no idea what is going on between those two. 

The Assassin's Curse duology is a great example of focusing on the story versus the romance aspect of it. I've actually read book two already and there's just so much I want to say about it! Must restrain myself! The relationship between Ananna and Naji was fun and real. Never could they ever imagine the journey that they must take and it's one great adventure. 

Now, minus the Assassin's Curse, I haven't read the second books in the other series. And here's where the fear comes in. Sometimes when characters get together, the tension and excitement falls off. I've noticed this in a lot of the second books I've been reading. Honestly, I don't see this happening with these books and I think mainly it is because the relationships are not the typical ones we've grown so used to. Serious kuddos to Mindee, Wendy, and Cassandra that's for sure! 

So what do you think? Do you have the same "second book" fear when it comes to books? 

Happy reading, 

Valia 

Book Spotlight: Scarlet (The Lunar Chronicles #2) by Marissa Meyer

Cinder returns in the second thrilling installment of the New York Times-bestselling Lunar Chronicles. She’s trying to break out of prison—even though if she succeeds, she’ll be the Commonwealth’s most wanted fugitive.

Halfway around the world, Scarlet Benoit’s grandmother is missing. It turns out there are many things Scarlet doesn’t know about her grandmother and the grave danger she has lived in her whole life. When Scarlet encounters Wolf, a street fighter who may have information as to her grandmother’s whereabouts, she has no choice but to trust him, though he clearly has a few dark secrets of his own.

As Scarlet and Wolf work to unravel one mystery, they find another when they cross paths with Cinder. Together, they must stay one step ahead of the vicious Lunar Queen who will do anything to make Prince Kai her husband, her king, her prisoner.

From Goodreads.com

     In the second book of the Lunar Chronicles, we meet Scarlet. She's a hardworking and loyal young lady, set in her ways. When her grandmother is kidnapped, Scarlet goes against everything everyone tells her and determines to do whatever it takes to get her back. When her path intersects with Wolf, a mysterious street fighter, she must decide if she can trust him to help her in her quest. On the other side of the things is Cinder. Imprisoned, she works her way out of her predicament and sets off on a journey of her own. Scarlet is an adventure like no other. 
     Honestly, I had no idea what to think of this book. I LOVED Cinder to pieces and I mean LOVED. I had no idea what to expect from the first book and the same was true for book two. Let me be honest and say, IT BLEW ME AWAY. 

Seriously, prepare yourself for a lot of feels. 

     Scarlet is an amazing character. I loved seeing her come alive on the pages. Her attitude, her strong convictions, the fact that she won't give up on her family are all characteristics of a great person. I had so much fun following her story. Then there's Wolf. Who would've thought you can get swoonie over him, but HOLY MOLY did I ever?! I loved the different perspective on his character. His tortured soul and protective instincts will make all girls go "awww". Together, these two, complement each other in a way that is refreshing. Honestly, I had no idea what I was going to think reading about them, but I definitely didn't expect to read all of 464 pages in one day. 

     On the other side of the story is Cinder and her journey. I was very interested to see just how Marissa will write these two characters into the same book and I wasn't disappointed. I loved seeing Cinder and her strong spirit and her journey. (Also, need more prince Kai). I'm really excited to see what happens next because OMW the ending is AHH!!! 

     Marissa's writing is excellent, her characters outstanding, and her storytelling fabulous. Seriously, I had no idea how something like Cinder or Scarlet could exist, but now I can't imagine it NOT! I've read the reviews on goodreads and can now join the rank and say, SCARLET IS EVEN BETTER THAN CINDER.  I cannot tell you how excited I am for what's to come. I'm sure Marissa is going to crush our little fangirl (or boy) hearts, but I'm looking forward to it! :-)
     Scarlet comes out February 5, 2013. Get it, read it, love it!

     Happy reading, 

     Valia 

Book Spotlight: Lullaby (Watersong #2) by Amanda Hocking

Harper only wanted a safe, normal life. But when her younger sister Gemma runs off with a dangerous clique of beautiful girls, Penn, Thea, and Lexi, everything changes. Vowing to get her sister back no matter what the cost, Harper must face dangers unlike any she's ever experienced. Fortunately, she has Daniel by her side, a gorgeous guy who's devoted to helping her find her sister—and who's immune to the girls' dark powers. 

While Harper searches for her sister, Gemma struggles to adjust to her new life. Gemma's powers are growing by the day, and the longer she lives with her new "sisters," the harder it is to resist entering their magical world. It's a realm both dark and beautiful, and where she's plagued by strange hungers and unspeakable needs. Just as she's drifting far away from her old life, Harper and Daniel find her...but no one can deny how much she's changed. All she wants is to return to her family and the mortal world, but how can she do that when she's become something else entirely—and will they still love her once they learn the truth?
from goodreads.com

Mild spoilers for book one ahead!!!

This book picks up right where book one left us. Gemma is gone with the shapeshifting monsters and Harper will do anything to bring her back. She and Alex word hard at trying to figure out what those girls are and how to get their Gemma back. With the help of the ever gorgeous Daniel, they must do everything in their power to find Gemma. While the three do their best to find her, Gemma struggles with her housemates and her new found abilities. She discovers things about herself and those around her that make her that much more cautious. Will they be reunited?

I’m really not sure how I feel about this series. I guess I’m just getting super picky with my reads lately or something. This book just wasn’t anything exciting for me. Harper is a fine character, a good sister with a world on her shoulders complex. Alex is a charming boy next door trying to save his girlfriend. Gemma is a newly supernatural being. Daniel is my favorite. 

That’s pretty much how I sum up this book for you. I know this series is going to be four books, but I have no idea why. I really felt like nothing really happened in Lullaby. I mean, sure stuff happened, but it’s like New Moon and all those months when Bella just sits there. Maybe I just expected more, or maybe my reading slump is affecting me. I guess I just wanted more out of this book. I actually enjoyed book one, thinking this series will be fun, but now I don’t know. 

While I say all this, the next person who reads the book may think it’s the best thing since sliced cheese, so don’t take my opinion too seriously. Especially if you love Amanda’s writing. I do. I really do enjoy her stories and after all of this I’m still going to say I’m reading the next two books in the series. I’m just hoping the next book gives us more character development and story. Also, more Daniel. 

Lullaby hits shelves November 27th. Let me know what you think!

Happy reading, 

Valia 

Blog Tour & Giveaway: Evergreen (Mer Tales #2) by Brenda Pandos

Book Title: Evergreen

Series name and #: Mer Tales, Book #2

Publisher: Obsidian Mountain Publishing

Release date: 7/29/2012

A kingdom on the brink of war.
A king on the fringes of insanity.
A family running for their lives.

Ash and Fin’s only desire is to be together and dive into their happily ever after, though their conflicting worlds work to pull them apart. Neither is ready to convert to the other’s life: become a human or a mer. Little do they know that somewhere in Natatoria a secret holds the fine fabric of everyone’s lives together. If the truth is discovered, Ash and Fin will no longer have the luxury of waiting. They’ll be forced to choose. But will it be for loyalty or love? Or will someone else make the choice for them if they can’t decide?

Enter the watery world of treachery, greed, and the binding mer kiss as the story continues with Evergreen, book two of Mer Tales.

My Review:

This book picks up where Everblue left us almost a year ago. Ash and Fin are in love, but their lives are set on keeping them apart. Fin is now across the states, on a trip that’s taking him farther and farther away, while Ash is trying desperately to keep some kind of normalcy to her life. With Tatchi, her best friend, gone and now losing Fin, she tries to get back to the human way of life. But the Mer world is never too far behind, and on the brink of war, Ash and Fin’s love for each other is tested like it’s never been tested before. 

I can’t begin to tell you how much I love this story. Evergreen is a perfect book two in this Mer saga. Ash is learning so much about herself, and the world that she is pulled into, but she’s staying strong through it all. Sure, she girl was driving up the wall with her keeping things from Fin and in the end making more work for him, but I can understand her a little. She’s navigating troubled waters. I’ll give her the benefit of the doubt. 

As for Fin, can I have one please? The handsome and amazing one, not the one for swimming :-) Fin is one of my favorite characters. I did kind of wish there was more of Fin and his awesomeness in this book, but since he was away and trying to figure out what in the world was going on, I forgive him. Sure, I was mad at him a few times, but in the end, he’s still Fin. (I always need more Fin) 

I have to say, more than anything, I love Fin and Ash together. This is one part of the book that was missing for me. I know that the storyline called for them being apart like this, but Brenda does such a fabulous job at creating Fin and Ash relationship that I just want them together all the time. They make each other a better version of themselves, and that is the best love possible. 

Evergreen is a full on hurricane ride. There is so much going on in every page, with twists and turns to take you on a real journey. Brenda has created a world full of wonder, love and adventure. I can’t wait to see where the next book takes us and how my beloved characters come out in the end.

PS. Did you guys see my blurb in the back? Brenda is a sweetheart :-D Also, LEAVE A COMMENT for a chance to WIN an E-copy of the book!!!

Purchase Evergreen:

Amazon Print: http://www.amazon.com/Evergreen-Mer-Tales-Brenda-Pandos/dp/098498352X/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1343763924&sr=8-1&keywords=evergreen

Amazon ebook: http://www.amazon.com/Evergreen-Mer-Tales-Book-ebook/dp/B008F06J0M/ref=tmm_kin_title_0?ie=UTF8&qid=1343763924&sr=8-1

Barnes & Noble Print: http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/evergreen-brenda-pandos/1111828531?ean=9780984983520&itm=1&usri=evergreen

Barnes & Noble ebook: http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/evergreen-brenda-pandos/1111828531?ean=2940014637312&format=nook-book&itm=1&usri=evergreen

Brenda’s Links:

Brenda Pandos’ Website: http://www.brendapandos.com/

Blog: http://brendapandos.blogspot.com

Goodreads Page: http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/3449368

Twitter: https://twitter.com/#!/brendapandos

Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/brendapandos

Author Picture: http://photo.goodreads.com/authors/1290382037p8/3449368.jpg

Brenda Pandos lives in California with her husband and two boys. She attempts to balance her busy life filled with writing, being a mother and wife, and spending time with friends and family. Working formerly as an I.T. Administrator, she never believed her imagination would be put to good use. After her son was diagnosed with an autism spectrum disorder her life completely changed. Writing paranormal romance became something she could do at home while tending to the new needs of her family, household, and herself.

Three years later, Brenda now has five books published, The Talisman Trilogy: The Emerald Talisman, The Sapphire Talisman, and The Onyx Talisman, and Mer Tales: Everblue and Evergreen. She is currently working on the third book of Mer Tales, Everlost, coming February 2013.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Yes, there are two ways to win! Enter in the Rafflecopter for a chance to win lots of goodies from Brenda and Enter in the Comments section to win an E-Copy!

So have you guys read this? What do you think? 

Happy reading, 

Valia

Book Spotlight: Heaven by Alexandra Ardornetto

DISCLAIMER: THIS IS BOOK 3! IT WILL CONTAIN SPOILERS. READ AT YOUR OWN RISK!!!!

Bethany, an angel sent to Earth, and her mortal boyfriend, Xavier, have been to Hell and back. But now their love will be put to its highest test yet, as they defy Heavenly law and marry. They don’t tell Beth’s archangel siblings, Gabriel and Ivy, but the angels know soon enough, and punishment comes in a terrifying form: the Sevens, who are rogue angels bent on keeping Beth and Xavier apart, destroying Gabriel and Ivy, and darkening angelic power in the heavens.

The only way Bethany and Xavier can elude the Sevens is to hide in the open, and blend in with other mortals their own age. Gabriel and Ivy set them up at college, where they can’t reveal their relationship, and where there is still danger around each corner. Will Bethany be called back to Heaven – forever – and face leaving the love of her life?

From goodreads.com
Thanks ATWAT for the book!

Heaven picks up where Hades left off. Xavier and Bethany are deeply in love, and Xavier proposes. The world around Bethany and Xavier’s relationship begins to fall apart because of the decision they made and they have to go into hiding. Now married, they go to a college where they have to pretend to be brother and sister to stay safe. The characters from previous books make appearances along side of the Seven, the new “force to be reckoned with.” Bethany and Xavier have to overcome the odds in order to stay together.  

Let me start out by saying that I enjoyed Halo greatly. I thought it was a sweet story, and I had my favorite characters for sure. Heaven is the third and final book of the Halo series and I was excited to get my hands on it! I’m sad to say it didn’t live up to my expectations. 

I always hate writing reviews that come from books that have disappointed me, but it wouldn’t be right for me not to share with you exactly what I think. I felt like nothing happened in Heaven. Bethany, as a character, seemed to go the opposite way of developing. She acted like a kid at times, disregarding everything she believes in just to have her way. Xavier was one of my favorites from the beginning. I really enjoyed his character in Halo, but in Heaven it seemed like he was just a presence. I don’t know if that makes sense, but that’s how I felt reading it. 

  For me, Seven weren’t the scary force trying to keep Bethany and Xavier apart. Jake was far better villain than the Seven and that’s kind of sad in itself. While I liked having a book that brought out some Christian values, Heaven wasn’t the best example of that. At least not to me. Xavier was a better example of a Christian than Bethany and that’s sad all on its own. She was the one to drag him down and I didn't like that.

In the end, there was no resolution. Gabriel and Ivy, who I enjoyed throughout the books, were just mentioned as a second thought in the end. It was as if the author forgot about them and had to throw them in. Also, some of the timing in the scenes were off and a lot of conversations were repeated unnecessarily. 

I read Heaven because I needed to have closure for this series. In the end, I ended up with more questions then answers. It saddens me to say so, but I try to be an honest reviewer because I would want the same for my books. If you’ve read Heaven, let me know what you think!

Happy reading, 

Valia 

Sequels Book Spotlight: Once by Anna Carey & Spark by Amy Kathleen Ryan

When you're being hunted, who can you trust?

For the first time since she escaped from her school many months ago, Eve can sleep soundly. She's living in Califia, a haven for women, protected from the terrifying fate that awaits orphaned girls in The New America.

But her safety came at a price: She was forced to abandon Caleb, the boy she loves, wounded and alone at the city gates. When Eve gets word that Caleb is in trouble, she sets out into the wild again to rescue him, only to be captured and brought to the City of Sand, the capital of The New America.

Trapped inside the City walls, Eve uncovers a shocking secret about her past--and is forced to confront the harsh reality of her future. When she discovers Caleb is alive, Eve attempts to flee her prison so they can be together--but the consequences could be deadly. She must make a desperate choice to save the ones she loves . . . or risk losing Caleb forever.

In this breathless sequel to "Eve," Anna Carey returns to her tale of romance, adventure, and sacrifice in a world that is both wonderfully strange and chillingly familiar.
From Goodreads.com
Summary:

Once starts out three months after Eve ends. Eve has been living in Califia, the city filled with women, and missing Caleb. He sacrificed himself in order to get Eve to safety, and she hasn’t stopped thinking about him since. The story takes off from the first pages when an unexpected friend shows up and Eve is once again on an adventure.

Honestly, I think I enjoyed Once more than I enjoyed Eve. This book opened up a lot of doors for Eve and her story. We discover some things about herself that she couldn’t have even imagined. She meets Caleb again and together they make plans, once more, to get out from where they are. I love Caleb’s character to pieces and I really wish there was more of him in the story. That was one part that I loved about Eve. Seriously though, the end of that book made me so angry (in a good way). That cliffhanger is (Oh. My. Goodness.) I pretty much can’t wait for book three! (More Caleb). :-) Once is out now!

Waverly and Kieran are finally reunited on the Empyrean. Kieran has led the boys safely up to this point, and now that the girls are back, their mission seems slightly less impossible: to chase down the New Horizon, and save their parents from the enemy ship. But nothing is truly as it seems…Kieran’s leadership methods have raised Seth’s hackles— and Waverly’s suspicions. Is this really her fiancé? The handsome, loving boy she was torn from just a short time before? More and more, she finds her thoughts aligned with Seth’s. But if Seth is Kieran’s Enemy No. 1, what does that make her?

In one night, a strange explosion rocks the Empyrean—shooting them off course and delaying their pursuit of the New Horizon—and Seth is mysteriously released from the brig. Seth is the most obvious suspect for the explosion, and Waverly the most obvious suspect for releasing him. As the tension reaches a boiling point, will Seth be able to find the true culprit before Kieran locks them both away—or worse? Will Waverly follow her heart, even if it puts lives at risk? With the balance of power precarious and the clock ticking, every decision counts… every step brings them closer to a new beginning, or a sudden end...
From goodreads.com
Summary:

Spark is book two in Sky Chasers series. The girls have been reunited with the boys, their mission now is to chase down the New Horizon and get their parents back. Waverly is still recovering from what happened to her on New Horizon. Kieran is still trying to keep the ship from falling apart. Seth is still being blamed for everything. Book two is told in three different points of view, which I enjoyed a lot. We get to see a bit more Seth in this book which made me happy. 

Confession, I’m a big Seth fan. I know, I know, thats crazy considering he’s a total crazy person in book one but there’s just something about him. Before his crazy stage I really enjoyed his character and I didn’t feel like giving up on him. Good thing I didn’t! I really liked him in this book! I also enjoyed Waverly’s character growing and Kieran’s. They have to make some tough decisions and both become better for it. I’m excited to read what happens next. Spark comes out July 17th!

Let me know what you think!

Happy reading, 

Valia 

Book Spotlight: Goddess Interrupted by Aimee Carter

Kate Winters has won immortality.

But if she wants a life in the Underworld with Henry, she’ll have to fight for it.

Becoming immortal wasn’t supposed to be the easy part. Though Kate is about to be crowned Queen of the Underworld, she’s as isolated as ever. And despite her growing love for Henry, ruler of the Underworld, he’s becoming ever more distant and secretive. Then, in the midst of Kate’s coronation, Henry is abducted by the only being powerful enough to kill him: the King of the Titans.

As the other gods prepare for a war that could end them all, it is up to Kate to save Henry from the depths of Tartarus. But in order to navigate the endless caverns of the Underworld, Kate must enlist the help of the one person who is the greatest threat to her future.

Henry’s first wife, Persephone.
From Goodreads.com

Goddess Interrupted starts out at the end of summer vacation James and Kate took together. She's anxious to get back and see Henry, her husband. When she steps back into the palace she is transported to the Underworld and that's where the real fun starts.

This book takes off in a flury of action and emotional rollercoasters. Kate is desperate to have Henry show his love for her, while she feels like she shouldnt even be there. I liked seeing Kate's character develop into someone worthy of a wife and a Queen. Yes, in the first book she had to overcome tests deeming her worthy but in book two she realizes these things for herself. She stands up for what she believes, and she is willing to sacrifice herself for those she loves. Especially Henry.

Oh, Henry. I didn't feel like his presence was as evident in this book (which I honestly missed) except through Kate. We watch her struggles, yerning for his love, but we don't see much of his. At least not till page...*fans self* I shall leave you hanging on that one because you will just have to read it for yourself. Make no mistake, I am definetly a Henry supporter. We learn a bit more about him in book two and his story might break your heart.

Overall, I enjoyed all the characters and getting a bit of history on them. It was fun watching them interact. Kate and Henry's relationship is beautiful and heartbreaking and they fight to overcome obsticle before them with determination.

And that ending, oh goodness that ending will leave you weeping and begging for more. This story has truly touched my heart, and I can't wait to read what happens next!


Let me know what you think!


Happy reading, 
Valia