Cluedo with a twist by Rinny & Kimmy

Hi everyone, so to spice things up Kimmy and I decided to do something a little bit different and do a joint review every now and again. I mean, what is better than one opinion? ... two for the price of one! :)

We give you, our first joint review:

The Reunion by A.A Pencil

*Disclaimer - We were given a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review*

Blurb:

C. Moore Catholic High School's 10-year reunion was organised as many reunions are - to reminisce, to see who had made a success of their lives, and in truth, to gossip on who had not. But this party in the secluded, 1890's mansion once owned by a long dead, paranoid WWII Veteran, was to become anything but typical. After a horrible accident within the mansion, the alumni realise they are locked in and fighting for their lives. Instantly, tempers rise and fingers are pointed as the number of living alumni begins to rapidly decrease. Theories range from there being a murderer in the midst to the mansion possibly being haunted by the previous owner's ghost. Who or what is responsible and will anyone make it out alive? Find out for yourself in this combination of a mystery and psychological thriller, with a twisted ending!

Rinny's View:

I cannot explain how excited I was when I came across this book and had the opportunity to review it. As soon as I read the blurb I just kept getting the feeling of a cluedo-esque story.  I loved Cluedo growing up it was my favourite board game could not get enough of it. I knew I had to read it. The excitement did not go, I found myself checking my to be reviewed list waiting for it to come up next, finally it has.

I was hooked from the start and I could not put the book down.  I was having to fight myself and say no go to bed, eat and take a break. All whilst texting Kimmy urging her to hurry up and read more so we could discuss. The hook did not let me go at all, the pace was perfect and I was never bored. So much was happening I found myself highlighting and taking notes keeping track of my suspicions and theories. Which were all wrong this book full of its mystery, suspense and fast paced action kicked me from behind in surprise with a huge twist I did not see coming at all. Wow that is all I can say to that Wow, Wow and Wow. The ending will leave you tripped up on your backside with a head full of shock, questions and wanting book two in this series.

The only real negatives I have are that even with the long detailed slow introduction to the characters, I still found myself getting confused from time to time for the first five or six chapters who was who and having to go back and refresh my memory. Although this eased as I got further in and started to connect more with some of the characters and others met their fate. The ending was a huge twist and at first I was a little confused. The more I thought things over, it became less confusing, much more clearer. I do have a few questions left over but that is a good thing for me with a starting book in a series.

There is a huge mix of characters all different but all intertwined and harbouring secrets. The relationships between them were believable and relatable for the most part thinking back to high school. (god has it really been 10 years since I was there arghhhh I cannot be that old :( lol).  I connected with a great deal of the characters although surprising my favourite character was not a big part of the book which made me sad.  I also had a few moments where my husband looked at my giggling self with a look that said oh no she's lost the plot lol.

I really enjoyed this book, it's plot was interesting the twist huge, characters although confusing at times were engaging and connectible. Full of mystery, fast paced action and suspense you will not be disappointed, except wanting to read on in the series.  I cannot wait to read book two.

Rating:

So close to 4.5

Kimmy's View:

When I came across this book in a Facebook Review Group I instantly wanted to read it.  It just sounded so fun.  Luckily for me, Rinny had beat me to the punch and got her hands on a review copy.  The countdown began until we could begin our first joint review!

Throughout reading this book, both Rinny and I were texting each other for progression updates, discussing our theories and opinions on the book.  It made for a much more enjoyable read knowing that someone else was reading the book at the same time as you and being able to discuss your crazy thoughts, predictions etc.

I found the majority of the storyline well written.  The history of how the characters know each other, I'm sure for many readers will find relatable.  My only fault would be that there were too many characters, some of which I found myself having trouble remembering and having to go back to refresh myself as to who they were and what part of the story did they appear.  Perhaps if these characters were taken out of the storyline and then the time spent on these was used to develop some of the character relationships or more history into their lives.  I did however connect well with the others, probably due to the time spent detailing the characters and their lives/relationships.

You will find yourself throughout the book trying to piece it all together, looking for all the clues, being on edge hoping something will or won't happen.  For me this was most definitely a page turner.  The major twist at the end felt like I had just hit a brick wall at 80mph.  It was definitely not expected, but explained alot of what had happened.  Also reading the teaser for book two left me wanting more.  Yet again another series that I want to continue reading, but of course have to wait.

From Rinny poking me to hurry up and read the book, to me sitting up late unable to put it down until I had finished it.  Its a great read folks, go and grab yourself a copy now!

Rating:

Useful Links

The Reunion Goodreads

The Reunion Amazon

The Reunion Facebook

A.A Pencil Website

Forget diamonds ... a dog's a woman's best friend by Rinny

I finished this book a few days ago and I was not sure how to start my review except to say Modogamous how awesome is that title. I am a huge animal lover and would be lost without my pooch. I even joke with the husband it was Rogue (our white German shepherd) that sealed the deal, when I met her I wasn't going anywhere.

Modogamous 
By Karen E. Martin

Rating :

  

*Disclaimer - I was given a free copy from the author in exchange for a honest review*

Blurb

Kate Adams has it all figured out. Five years out of college, she’s got a steady job, a home she loves in the big city, and good friends who always keep her laughing: her stylish but nosy roommate Evette, happily-married Cecie, and of course, good old Mitch, her seriously cute co-worker who’s been stuck in the Friend Zone since the day they met.

Everything is going just fine—until the night Kate crosses the line with Mitch, and the boundaries between friendship and love begin to blur. Things get even more complicated when hunky JP enters the scene. What’s a girl to do? Add to the mix a spunky little pug Kate never expected to fall for, and her neatly-ordered life is starting to look more like a dog’s dinner. Maybe her roommate has the right idea after all: forget the men, and stick with a canine companion instead.

It’s time for Kate to figure out what she really wants in life. But can she dig her way out of the mess she’s created before she ends up permanently in the doghouse?
 
Please note: This book contains adult language and mild sexual content.

Review

This type of book is not one that I would often read.  In the spirit of my readaloutions for the year, I thought why not. I was not disappointed the book didn't hook me the way I normally look for a book to do so. However I did find myself wanting to read more and more of this charming,funny, cozy and easy read.  I have to say that anyone who has known the love of a dog will love this book, it just has you nodding along in agreement, as not even the greatest love can beat that feeling you get when you get the excited yapping, jumping and chase of a tail your furry friend gives you over the littlest things. If you like a cozy easy romance to escape to on a rainy or cold afternoon then do consider this adorable relatable read.

There was a lot I liked about this book I liked the unique way of story telling through occasional blog posts from Kate.  The story was not to slow paced and had quite a few chuckle out load moments. Although I have to say I was not a huge fan of Kate (which is frustrating as I cannot put my finger on why she did not appeal to me as others in the book.  I just could not connect with her) though I did like how she has a huge heart and was not perfect just your average young woman finding herself stuck in a place where she did not imagine herself and looking for her true path in the world making mistakes a long the way.  Mitch on the other hand was a delight I loved the moments when we got into his head and he is such a loveable character even if he tends to doubt himself and be a little flaky at times.  The friendship they share is so genuine and full of wit you become endeared to them easily. The dynamics of the many friendships within the book are believable, varied and interesting.  Which I find is not always the case between main characters and their lesser focused on friends and family.  This I feel added to the charm.

The book is well written with a style that to me just oozes fun and cosy comfy feels.  Although at times it was hard to follow the p.o.v as you would start off as Kate and suddenly find yourself in Mitch's head for example.  This was confusing at times but I found myself quickly coming to terms with it and figuring it out on the few occasions it happened.  It did not detract from the story at all.

Lastly I just wanted to mention that some of my favourite bits were when Kate was comparing past dating disasters to their pet pooch's so funny especially the red-neck lol.

Overall Modogamous is worthwhile read and I really did enjoy it.

Useful Links

Modogamous Goodreads

Modogamous  Amazon UK

Karen's Facebook

Karen's Twitter

Karen's Blog

Organised Zombies! by Kimmy

Hey all,

Here is my latest review:

Julie Rayzor (Julie Rayzor, #1)

by Richard Howes

Rating:

**Disclaimer - I was given a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review**

Summary:

17 year-old Julie is caught between a world of zombies outside of "Fort Tulsa" and a life of drama inside. When everything she loves in life is stolen away; her soldier-boyfriend missing-in-action; troubles with Jill, her best friend; Felix, a nerdy medical researcher fawning over her; plus a broken leg in a cast to weigh her down, she has to join the war and fight or be killed. When she learns of a plan to rescue her boyfriend and save the city, she uncovers a dark secret - a secret that she must keep hidden deep inside until she can complete the most dangerous task of her life.

Review:

My bestie Rinny came across this book in a facebook group and knowing how much I love zombies she brought it to my attention.  I couldn't resist.  I'm a sucker for anything zombie related lol.

The main lead, Julie Rayzor, a strong female able to handle herself better than most well trained military guys.  Young, in love, kicking ass and taking names.  A different approach to your normal zombie fest.  None of the typical 'Need to Feed' zombies and everything that goes along with it.  The zombies created in this story and what they are up to, make for an interesting read.  I do feel some of the storyline was slightly rushed or perhaps not as explored as it could have been.

With all post apocalyptic stories, something happens, causing us to feel those heart strings getting tugged at.  Unfortunately, I didn't quite feel it.  I wasn't convinced.  What happens between Julie and her boyfriend just seemed like a total WTF moment.  Like, huh, you guys were totally in love and like that's it.  Perhaps this was written this way on purpose, this is the first book in the series, it could possibly be laying the foundations.  But I just couldn't find myself connecting much with their relationship.  Felt more like a one night stand between them.

The turn of events for Julie becomes interesting and enjoyable, but the phrase she uses telepathically, I found a little lame to be honest.  It did make me laugh though.

I am looking forward to reading the next book in the series to see what is in store for Julie and her comrades, the teaser at the end of the book certainly does pique your interests.

For all the price this book is, its an interesting piece of imagination on the zombie genre.  A good read worth the money!

Watch this space for the review of the second book in the series.

Congratulations to Richard Howes, may you have many future successes!

Useful Links

Goodreads Page

Amazon UK
Amazon US

Arc Review: Stolen Songbird by Danielle L. Jensen - by Kimmy

Hey all,

Another first in a series I am so excited to share:

Stolen Songbird (The Malediction Trilogy #1)

by Danielle L. Jensen

Release Date: 1st April 2014

Rating:

**Disclaimer - I was given a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review**

Summary:

For five centuries, a witch’s curse has bound the trolls to their city beneath the ruins of Forsaken Mountain. Time enough for their dark and nefarious magic to fade from human memory and into myth. But a prophesy has been spoken of a union with the power to set the trolls free, and when Cécile de Troyes is kidnapped and taken beneath the mountain, she learns there is far more to the myth of the trolls than she could have imagined.

Cécile has only one thing on her mind after she is brought to Trollus: escape. Only the trolls are clever, fast, and inhumanly strong. She will have to bide her time, wait for the perfect opportunity.

But something unexpected happens while she’s waiting – she begins to fall for the enigmatic troll prince to whom she has been bonded and married. She begins to make friends. And she begins to see that she may be the only hope for the half-bloods – part troll, part human creatures who are slaves to the full-blooded trolls. There is a rebellion brewing. And her prince, Tristan, the future king, is its secret leader.

As Cécile becomes involved in the intricate political games of Trollus, she becomes more than a farmer’s daughter. She becomes a princess, the hope of a people, and a witch with magic powerful enough to change Trollus forever.

Review:

Browsing through Netgalley I came across this book.  Again another book cover that instantly caught my attention.  After reading the description, I knew I had to read it.  I submitted my request, and then was lucky enough to receive an eArc copy of this book from Angry Robot Ltd.

In the first two days of reading this book, I got to 97% completion.  I just couldn't put it down.  I would have finished the book that evening on the second read if it weren't for a combination of having to get up for work in about 5 hours and not wanting to finish the book because again its another series and I just wanted to keep reading more and more!

What is it with me reading the first books of a series lately that aren't even released yet.  I'm killing myself here lol.  Not only do I have to wait until the book is officially released, but then I need to wait for the next book in the series....arghhhh....gief now!

This book is such a beautiful story.  A world filled with fantasy, romance and politics.  An introduction to a hidden, magical place, full of a race that we thought only existed in fairytales.  So well described, you have no problems imagining it.  You get to experience Cécile's emotions as she is torn away from her dream life, forced by a magical bind in marriage to a prince of a cruel race.  Grow with Cécile as things begin to change, making new friends, experiencing feelings she didn't think would be possible and discovering powers that she never realised she had.

So what are you waiting for, get this book added to your Goodreads shelf, spread the word to your fellow readers and get ready to purchase this book on the 1st April 2014.  This is going to be another amazing series!

Congratulations to Danielle L.Jenson, may you have many future successes!

Useful Links

Goodreads Page

Danielle L. Jensen's Website

Feature & Follow #4

Gain new followers and make new friends with the Book Blogger Feature & Follow! If this is your first time here, welcome! You are about to make some new friends and gain new followers, but you have to know, the point of this hop is to follow other bloggers also. I follow you, you follow me.

The Feature & Follow is hosted by TWO hosts, Parajunkee of Parajunkee's View and Alison of Alison Can Read. Each host will have their own Feature Blog and this way it'll allow us to show off more new blogs!

How does this work? Post your name here along with the link to your blog in the comments section.  Then you create a post on your own blog that links back to this post (easiest way is to just grab the code under the #FF picture and put it in your post) and then you visit as many blogs as you can and tell them "hi" in their comments (on the post that has the #FF image). You follow them, they follow you. Win. Win. Just make sure to follow back if someone follows you!

What sets this Hop apart from others, is the Feature. Each week Parajunkee & Alison Can Read will showcase a Featured Blogger, from all different genres and areas. Who is the Feature today? Find out by clicking their names. Just remember it is required, if you participate, to follow those they Feature and you must follow the hosts (Parajunkee & Alison Can Read) as a courtesy. How do you follow someone? Well, if you have a preference, state it in your #FF post.

We prefer to be followed on bloglovin'.  So click the following picture or the bloglovin' link in the top right corner of the page.  Don't forget to stop by our other social media sites too!

Question of the Week:

If you could read a book for the “first time” again, which book would it be? Why?

Kimmy - Dracula by Bram Stoker.  The true vampire book.  When I think of vampires, this is where it all originated from.  No hero vamps or sparkly vamps.  This is the real deal!

Rinny - Little Women By Louisa May Alcott. It is a book i think every girl/woman should read at least once in their life. It is also the first book i can remember reading and thinking WOW!, i need to read more.

Thanks for stopping by, don't forget to follow!