Book Review: But I Love Him by Amanda Grace

But I Love Him by Amanda Grace

Publication Date: 8th May, 2011

Publisher:  Flux

Source: Bought

Tonight was so much worse than anything before it. Tonight he didn't stop after the first slap.

At the beginning of senior year, Ann was a smiling, straight-A student and track star with friends and a future. Then she met a haunted young man named Connor. Only she can heal his emotional scars; only he could make her feel so loved — and needed. Ann can't recall the pivotal moment it all changed, when she surrendered everything to be with him, but by graduation, her life has become a dangerous high wire act. Just one mistake could trigger Connor's rage, a senseless storm of cruel words and violence damaging everything — and everyone — in its path.

This evocative slide show of flashbacks reveals a heartbreaking story of love gone terribly wrong.

My Review:

Favourite Quote: It's nearly dark.  How long have I been lying here? The blackness reaches the corners of the room and fills everything.  Once that darkness was cocoon, enveloping us and protecting us from everything outside the door.  Together, we hid in the dark, hoping the world would leave well enough alone and we could find peace.
  But nothing can protect me now, least of all the darkness.

But I Love Him is a completely absorbing tale.  When I picked it up I only intended to have a quick look and then put it down and go back to my review books.  But the story drew me in immediately and I had to just keep reading until I finished it in one sitting.


Grace deals with some compelling issues - physical and emotional abuse, family issues, friendships falling apart and losing the sense of who you are. The writing is powerful and thought provoking yet at the same time simple and honest.  I marked quote after quote as it is the kind of writing I fall in love with.  This tale is completely heartbreaking no matter how you tell it but I also love the way Grace wrote it in reserve.  It felt like such a fresh, different and completely insightful take on a relationship gone wrong.


Ann and Connor are such well fleshed out characters.  Ann story haunted me and just completely got under my skin.  Her voice was utterly convincing.  I felt like she was sitting across from me telling her story.  You really get to know her and understand why she loved Connor so much.

What do you do when the one person you want comfort from the most is the one who caused your pain? How can I want so desperately for him to wrap me up in his arms but also want so much for him to leave me alone? 

Connor is someone who is ruled by his past.  This is the first time while reading about a physically abusive relationship that I have felt something for the abuser.  I wouldn't say it was like because what he did was inexcusable but rather I understood him a little and was kind of wishing that maybe he would get help.  He is a well crafted character that I would have like to have his own own story told as I think it could have been just as strong.

"Sometimes I think I spent forever waiting for you," he says.  "My whole life, I've never had someone like you.  Someone who doesn't have to be there, but is anyway.  Someone who wants to just .... be with me because they want me.  For me.  Not because I'm your brother or your kid or anything, but because you choose me."

To me But I Love Him feels like Stolen and Forbidden, both books that I love, in the sense it shows that everything isn't as simple as black and white but there are plenty of shades of grey in between.


Overall, this is a standout read.  I highly recommend this is you are looking for a story that is intense and realistic yet beautifully told.


Overall Rating: 4.5/5
Writing: 5/5
Plot: 4.5/5
Characters:5/5
Romance: 4/5
Cover: 4/5 - Simple, gorgeous and matches in well with the story.


For more info:  Visit Mandy Hubbard's website.  Note: Amanda Grace is a pen name for Mandy Hubbard.

My Book Boyfriend #19

My Book Boyfriend is hosted by the awesome blogger Missie at The Unread Reader.   What is My Book Boyfriend you might ask.  Well it is a weekly meme where we talk about a literary crush including stats, a picture of what you imagine he looks like and some quotes from him that make you swoon.  If you are interested in participating please check out Missie blog The Unread Reader.

Jonah Griggs from On The Jellicoe Road 

Jonah Griggs is a tank.  His face is blunter, meaner than I remembered.  Hair cropped.  Arms folded.  He has perfected the art of looking straight at someone while avoiding eye contact.

Jonah is no perfect guy.  He is one of those flawed and tortured souls that keeps their heart and gentler side hidden away.  But when he does love someone he loves them fiercely. 

"When I turn around, he cups my face in his hands and he kisses me so deeply that I don't know who is breathing for who, but his mouth and tongue taste like warm honey. I don't know how long it lasts, but when I let go of him, I miss it already."

"Never,' he tells me in a tone full of ice, 'underestimate who or what I care for."

"If you weren't driving, I'd kiss you senseless," I tell him.
He swerves to the side of the road and stops the car abruptly.
"Not driving any more."

He shakes his head and, although it's dark, I can tell he's crying.  
"What are you thinking?" I whisper after a while.
"That you deserve romance," he says.

Have you read On The Jellicoe Road?  If not do so immediately because it is awesome.  What do you think of Jonah?


Thanks Missie for hosting this meme.


***Audrey & Alexa I know you both are going to come along here and try and steal him.  Sorry he live in Australia so therefore he is mine :p

Book Review: Elemental by Tiffany Dominguez

Elemental by Tiffany Dominguez

Published: 11th April, 2011

Source:  Thanks to Tiffany Dominguez

Hidden within the Blue Ridge Mountains, an elite private school trains students born with the Elemental powers of Earth, Air, Fire and Water. Luke Huntington, Earth Elemental, is tired of incompetent teachers, easy classes and most of all, competing with Eva Sarantos. Soon-to-be valedictorian Eva, Air Elemental, has trained for years for the chance to prove herself to her advisor, to the Council and to the infuriating Luke. In spite of their tricky past, these two high school seniors are paired together on a covert mission for the ruling body of the Elemental world. After destroying an airplane hangar and watching one of their closest teachers die in their defense, the two students fly to Italy, pursued by an army of black-cloaked elitists. In Italy, they discover Luke's ancient legacy, the secrets of two of the most powerful men in history and whether they can overcome their own tricky past to team up against a secret society gathering forces in the highest ranks of world leadership.

My Review:

Favourite Quote:  "What do you think you are doing?" she asked.  Luke smiled the first genuine smile she'd ever seen from him.  He yanked her back to him.  "I have no idea".  And he kissed her with even more fervor than he had a few moments ago. 

Elemental is part adventure, part love story, part supernatural and a whole lot of FUN.  It wasn't a perfect read but I had a blast reading it and for me that is the most important thing.

Dominguez's writing is engaging.  It was full of action and suspense and the pages just flew by.  It is written from both Luke's and Eva's perspectives alternating each chapter and allowing us to get know both characters.

However there were times I found the story a little predictable and I wish it flowed a little more effortless but that been said it didn't stop me from enjoying it.

Eva and Luke are both terrific and entertaining characters.  Eva is smart, strong, determined and the class valedictorian.  While Luke is dangerous, protective, gorgeous (of course) and the guy at school that everyone avoids.

Their relationship starts from dislike, to tolerate, to like, to finally something more.  I love watching it change.  It's progression felt natural and they had great chemistry.

The ending wraps up nicely while never feeling rushed but at the same time leaves it open for more.

Overall Elemental was a pleasure to read.  I will be definitely keeping an eye out to see what Tiffany Dominguez has install for us next.

Overall Rating: 3.5/5
Writing: 3/5
Plot: 3.5/5
Characters: 3.5
Romance: 4/5
Cover: 3/5. - Matches in well with the storyline.

For more info:  Visit Tiffany Dominguez's website.

In My Mailbox #

In My Mailbox was created by Kristi at The Story Siren and inspired by Alea at Pop Culture Junkie.

BOUGHT:

But I Love Him by Amanda Grace - YA contemp.  Read this already in one sitting.  So good yet very sad.

Burn Bright by Marianne de Pierres - YA dystopia by an Australian author.  After reading Nomes brilliant review I had to buy this.  This is also on the GO AUSSIE BOOK TOURS.

BIRTHDAY GIFTED:

Where She Went by Gayle Forman - YA contemp.  I finally have my own copy.  Now I can read my favourite Adam parts when I want.  Check out my review here.

The Iron Queen by Julie Kagawa -YA fantasy.  Love this series and now finally have my own copy of book 3.  Check out my review here.

THROUGH SWAP:

Thyla by Kate Gordon - YA supernatural by an Australian author.  Can't wait to read this.  Has such an awesome cover.

The Girl in The Steel Corset by Kady Cross - YA steampunk.  Read lots of good reviews for this book.

Also I finally signed up for Twitter even though I have no idea what I am doing!

What did you get in your mailbox?



Birthday, Winners & More.....

Today is my birthday (I won't say how old I am because I am sure it is wrong)!!!

And also time to draw the winner of my 300 followers giveaway.  And because it is my birthday and I want to share the love I have decided to pick TWO WINNERS!!!

The winners are:           Anna from Cherry Banana Split
                                                           and
                                       Jenny from Supernatural Snark

Congratulations! I will be contacting you soon by email.

Some book news:

The cover for Froi of the Exiles by Melina Marchetta has just been revealed.  And it has to be one of my favourite covers of 2011.  Go check out Inkcrush and Between The Lines for more details.

Also Summer Crossing (Iron Fey #3.5) by Julie Kagawa has just been released and is available for FREE download for a short time at Harlequin eBook store.

Now I am going back to crossing my fingers and toes that Thomas Mackee jumps out of my birthday cake!!!!

Book Review: Five Flavors of Dumb by Antony John

Five Flavors of Dumb by Antony John
Publication Date: 11th November, 2010
Source: Bought

The Challenge: Piper has one month to get the rock band Dumb a paying gig.
The Deal: If she does it, Piper will become the band's manager and get her share of the profits.
The Catch: How can Piper possibly manage one egomaniacal pretty boy, one talentless piece of eye candy, one crush, one silent rocker, and one angry girl? And how can she do it when she's deaf?
Piper can't hear Dumb's music, but with growing self-confidence, a budding romance, and a new understanding of the decision her family made to buy a cochlear implant for her deaf baby sister, she discovers her own inner rock star and what it truly means to be a flavor of Dumb.

My Review:

Favourite Quote:  "Music.  It's not about those things.  It's about a feeling.  It's about expressing yourself. It's about letting go."

I have being trying to write this review for days and I am having a hard time trying to sum up what makes Five Flavors of Dumb so special from most other coming of age stories.   It could be Piper's believable and heart felt voice or the loveable bunch of supporting characters or the constantly entertaining plot or the wonderful writing.  But whatever the reason is I loved it!

John's writing makes you feel like you are there with the characters.  And what an awesome bunch of characters to be hanging out with.  They would have to be some of my absolute favourites.   Piper is just awesome.  Strong, witty and inspiring.  She isn't perfect, she makes mistakes but she learns from them pretty quick.   Then there is Piper's brother Finn.  I loved the interactions between him and Piper.  It was absolutely hilarious at times and then they would share a really touching moment.  I kind of wish I had a younger brother like him.

There is also a little bit of romance in the story that will make you wish your were Piper (and of course swoon all over the place).  And awwww the first kiss, so perfect and completely goofy grin worthy.  So I suggest not reading that part in a public place like I did! 

Music is another important element in the story.  It takes you behind the scenes of the music business.   I for one am a big fan of stories regarding music and I loved Piper's journey into the music world.

Overall, Five Flavors of Dumb is funny, smart and completely heartwarming.  A must read!

Overall Rating: 4.5/5
Writing:4.5/5
Plot: 4.5/5
Characters: 5/5
Romance: 4/5
Cover: 4/5

For more info:  Visit Antony John's website.

For more reviews:  The Tales of Compendium

My Book Boyfriend #18

My Book Boyfriend is hosted by the awesome blogger Missie at The Unread Reader.   What is My Book Boyfriend you might ask.  Well it is a weekly meme where we talk about a literary crush including stats, a picture of what you imagine he looks like and some quotes from him that make you swoon.  If you are interested in participating please check out Missie blog The Unread Reader.

This week's book boyfriend is

Dimitri from Vampire Academy

Mmmmm.....Dimitri. I think we all know this brown hair, dark brown eyes, 6"6 tall, duster wearing, strong, smart, loyal, sexy guy.

"Roza, my self-control is ten times stronger than yours."
I opened my eyes, shifting to look into his. I brushed his hair back and smiled, certain my heart would expand and expand until there was nothing left of me.
"Oh yeah? That's not the impression I just got."
"Wait until next time," he warned. "I'll do things that'll make you lose control within seconds."

Don't touch her," he growled.
There was a note in his voice that would of scared me if it had been directed toward me. He shoved me behind him, putting his body protectively in front of mine with my back to the table. Guardians came at us from all directions,and Dimitri began dispatching them with the same deadly grace that had once made people call him a god." 

We can't..." he told me.
"I know," I agreed.

Then his mouth was on mine again, and this time, I knew there would be no turning back. There were no walls this time. Our bodies wrapped together as he tried to get my coat off, then his shirt, then my shirt. ... It really was a lot like when we'd fought out on the quad earlier-that same passion and heat. I think at the end of the day, the instincts that power fighting and sex aren't so different. They all come from an animal side of us.

(Dimitri never played the guitar but this picture was too hot not to include)

  "No," Dimitri interrupted gently. He moved his face toward mine, our foreheads nearly touching. "It won't happen to you. You're too strong. You'll fight it, just like you did this 
time."
"I only did because you were here." He wrapped his arms around me, and I buried my face in his chest. "I can't do it by myself," I whispered.
"You can," he said. There was a tremulous note in his voice. "You're strong—you're so, so strong. It's why I love you."

What do you think of Dimitri?

Thanks again to Missie for hosting this meme.