Waterfall Wednesday - Week 5 Chapters 2428

Waterfall Wednesday is a weekly event hosted by Tina's Book Review, Edgy Inspirational Romance, Supernatural Snark, The Unread Reader and me.  For the period August 31st to September 28th each week we re-read chapters from Waterfall by Lisa Tawn Bergren and answer five questions.  To find out more on this awesome event visit Tina's Books Reviews. 

1.  After Gabi is injured, the doctor gives her a tonic.  Gabi questions the doctor several times what is in it but he refuses to tell.  Would have you taken the tonic in Gabi situation?

 

At first I thought no.  But after being so sick for the last couple of weeks and things not looking better anytime soon I think I would try just about anything to make it go away.  So yes I would.

2.  Before the games Gabi asks Lia to let Lord Forabosch win in the archery event as people especially Lord Forabosch are becoming suspicious of them.  But during the games Lord Forabosch upsets Lia trying to throw her off her game. So Lia decides to win.  Do you think she did the right thing by not letting Lord Forabosch bully her or do you think she took an unnecessary risk?

I think Lia did the right thing. I personally couldn't have put up with Lord Forabosch and would have loved to put him in his place.

3.  When Gabi is dying and she and Lia decide to return to the tombs so they can get the cure at home but they have to tell Marcello the truth.  Even though Marcello thinks that it is madness that they are from the future he believes in Gabi because he loves her.  Do you think this is believable?  What would you have done if you were Marcello?

Hmmm I don't know if I would have believed it especially from someone I have only know a short time.  But love is pretty powerful and makes you have faith in people.

4.       In the end Gabi and Lia return home.  Do you think Gabi will return to Marcello? Would you go back?

Yes I am sure Gabi will go back.  I couldn't walk away from Marcello.  For true love I would pretty much do anything even if it is a little bit scary.

5.  Looking back at Waterfall what was your favourite moment?

 

Well since I am a romantic fool it would have to be that kiss!

 

I can't believe our Waterfall Wednesdays are now over.  It has been a whole lot of fun.  If you haven't read the rest of the series yet do so immediately.  It just gets better and better. 

 

Link your answers below for your chance to win The River of Time series, signed by the author. Winner will be chosen Thursday, 29/9/11.  Also don't forget commenting on any Waterfall Wednesday post automatically enters you into the draw to win Tuscan Earrings from Lisa T. Bergren! Good Luck!

In My Mailbox #41 & where have I been

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

WON:

Anna Dressed in Blood by Kendare Blake - Heard loads of good things about this creepy paranormal tale.  Thanks to Jenny at Supernatural Snark.

BORROWED:

Fracture by Megan Miranda - Debut author of 2012 and YA supernatural tale.

Quick note: I am sorry that my blog has been quite lately and I haven't returned any comments the last few days.  I have been really unwell and looks like it might be like that for a little longer.  So the blog might be a bit quite over the next couple of weeks until I'm better but I will try to post and return comments when I can.

What did you get in your mailbox?

Waterfall Wednesday - Week 4 - Chapters 18-23

Waterfall Wednesday is a weekly event hosted by Tina's Book Review, Edgy Inspirational Romance, Supernatural Snark, The Unread Reader and me.  For the period August 31st to September 28th each week we re-read chapters from Waterfall by Lisa Tawn Bergren and answer five questions.  To find out more on this awesome event visit Tina's Books Reviews. 

1. Gabi and Lia both face several life and death situations in these chapters, having to pick up weapons in defense of those they love and experiencing first hand the brutality of close combat. If you had the choice between picking up a weapon and standing on the front lines or staying behind to tend to the wounded as necessary, which would you choose?


Hmmm....I don't think I would like to sit behind and not know what is happening to the ones I love but I think I am more of a carer than a fighter.  So I would stay behind and care for the wounded.

2. Both girls get to wear extraordinary gowns to their victory celebration; what would your dream medieval gown look like?

Something elegant yet striking in a beautiful shade of purple.

3. Gabi has crude stitches put in and must endure both their removal as well as the cauterization of the wound. How is your threshold for pain? Do you think you would have simply gritted your teeth as Gabi does?

Yes I think so in the circumstances.  I am not too bad with pain.  I handle modern day stitches, needles etc well.

4. Marcello wants to properly court Gabi after they express mutual feelings of affection, wanting to speak with her mother about his intentions. What do you think is the most romantic aspect of medieval courtship?


The most romantic aspect of the relationship back then would be how special a simple kiss is.  It would pretty much mean you are in love and want to spend forever together.

5. Gabi and Lia find themselves with conflicting desires toward the end with Lia wanting to return home and Gabi hoping to stay. Do you think that Gabi is being unfair to Lia for wanting to stay, or is Lia being unfair to Gabi for demanding they go? A little of both?


A little of both.  I don't think either option is fair to either girl.  That is a hard one to comprise on because true love is hard to fine but family is also the most important thing.

Thanks to Jenny from Supernatural Snark for this week's questions.

Don't forget to sign up for a chance to win all 3 River of Time Series book.

Here are next week's questions:

1.  After Gabi is injured, the doctor gives her a tonic.  Gabi questions the doctor several times what is in it but he refuses to tell.  Would have you taken the tonic in Gabi situation?

2.  Before the games Gabi asks Lia to let Lord Forabosch win in the archery event as people especially Lord Forabosch are becoming suspicious of them.  But during the games Lord Forabosch upsets Lia trying to throw her off her game. So Lia decides to win.  Do you think she did the right thing by not letting Lord Forabosch bully her or do you think she took an unnecessary risk?

3.  When Gabi is dying and she and Lia decide to return to the tombs so they can get the cure at home but they have to tell Marcello the truth.  Even though Marcello thinks that it is madness that they are from the future he believes in Gabi because he loves her.  Do you think this is believable?  What would you have done if you were Marcello?

4.       In the end Gabi and Lia return home.  Do you think Gabi will return to Marcello? Would you go back?

5.  Looking back at Waterfall what was your favourite moment?

*** I may be a little late with replying to comments due to the fact that I haven't been well.  But I will return them in the next few days.

My Book Boyfriend #31 - Cash Sterling

My Book Boyfriend is 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 pick is:

Cash Sterling

from Shut Out by Kody Keplinger

Great.  He was a hottie, a good kisser, and a literature buff.  God really must have had a sense of humor, because if I had to name my biggest turn-on, it was literature.  And he had just recommended a book that I didn't know, that wasn't taught in school.  If I were single. there would be no better pick-up line.

His hands were on my hips then, steadying me.  My T-shirt had ridden up slightly as I'd stretched my arms to the highest shelves, so his finger made direct contact with the exposed skin just above the waistband of my jeans.  A small burst of fire pulsed through me, starting at the places where he was touching me and spreading to the rest of my body.

"I don't think you're crazy," Cash said.  "I think you're...."

I looked up at him just as he trailed off.  It was too dark to tell, but I thought he was blushing.

"I'm what?"

He cleared his throat and ran a hand over his hair.  I wanted to touch it, feel the short, dark strands.  "I think you're kind of amazing."

And then Cash was murmuring into my mouth, my name on his lips, and I was melting into him, feeling that the same need I'd felt in the library two days earlier.  The desire to crawl under Cash's skin, to meld my body with his.

What do you think of Cash?

Thanks to Missie for hosting this meme!

Interview with Sherry Gammon & Unlovable GIVEAWAY!

Today I am very lucky to have the talented Sherry Gammon stopping by an interview and also giveaway.  Last week I read Unlovable by Sherry Gammon and it was fantastic.  A book I thoroughly enjoyed from start to finish.  You can read my review here.  Unlovable is the first book in the Port Fare trilogy.

1.  What were you inspirations? 

Maggie was based on two girls I grew up with. I like to write about things that bother/haunt me as a way to deal with life’s injustices! It helped my find closure on my friend’s unfair lives.

2.  What is one thing that you admire most about Maggie and also Seth? 

Maggie: her strength. She Never gave up. 

As for Seth, his patience and endurance.

3. What is your typical writing day/night like?

I write at night when the kiddies are in bed. It is nice and quiet. Also, I used to take care of an elderly woman, and I would write when she went to sleep.

4. Can you tell us a little bit about the next book in the series Unbelievable?  

Will Maggie and Seth be dropping by? Book 2 is about Cole and his journey to love. There are two woman in his story. One good, one not so good. He has to deal with both. And yes, Maggie and Seth will definitely be dropping by!

5. Unlovable has a beautiful love story.  Who are some of your favourite literary romantic couples?

Jennifer Cavalleri and Oliver Barrett the IV, (Love Story by Erich Segal, Bella and Edward, by… well, I think we all know who wrote their story;] and Layla and Majnum written by Persian Poet Nizami Ganjavi.

Thank you Sherry for stopping by!

GIVEAWAY:

One lucky reader will win a ebook of Unlovable by Sherry Gammon.  Opened INTERNATIONALLY!

All you have to do to enter is a leave a comment with you email address.  

Extra entry if you tweet about this giveaway. 

Giveaway closes midnight on Saturday 24th September, 2011.  

Winner will be chosen by random.org in accordance with my giveaway policy.

Good luck to everyone.

In My Mailbox #40

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

For Review:

Devoted by Hillary Duff - This is the sequel to Elixir.  Haven't read the first one is the series yet so I am curious if anyone has, do they recommend it?  Thanks to Simon & Schuster.

Bought:

Shut Out by Kody Keplinger - YA contemp that reminds me of a good romantic comedy.  If you like The DUFF (Keplinger's debut book) you will probably like this.

Isle of Night by Veronica Wolff - YA vampire novel.  This sounds so amazing.  Can't wait to get started.

Gifted:

I'll Be There by Holly Goldberg Sloan - YA contemp that looks like such a heartbreaking story.  Also one of my favourite covers of 2011.

What did you get in your mailbox?

Book Review: Unlovable by Sherry Gammon

Unlovable (Port Fare #1) by Sherry Gammon

Published by:  Wordpainting Unlimited 

Publication date:  19th January, 2011

Source:  Thanks to author

Port Fare, New York, has fallen into the clutches of true evil. The Dreser brothers have arrived with a scheme to increase drug sales in the area by whatever means possible. Seth Prescott is part of MET (Mobile Enforcement Teams) a branch of the DEA (Drug Enforcement Administration). He's been assigned to work undercover at Port Fare High, and things aren't going very well, until senior Maggie Brown enters the equation. He's harbored a secret crush on her from day one, and now that she is in the center of the case, he's trying to stay clear and objective while walking the line between business and unrequited love.

Maggie is truly the poster child for Heroin Chic, complete with jutting bones and dark-ringed eyes, but is she an addict, or is there another reason for her appearance? She struggles with her feelings for Seth, fearing he is just another person who will eventually let her down, as everyone in her life has done thus far.
Maggie has spent her life caring for her alcoholic mother. A task that has left her heavily burdened and alone. Before long, her mother's health takes a turn for the worst, sending Maggie's life into a tale-spin.

While Seth works relentlessly to inject fear into the dealers and flush them out into the open, Maggie fights to stay alive as the hunt turns deadly.

Seth and Maggie's romantic journey is one of humor, heartbreak, and self-discovery.

My Review:

Favourite Quote:  With my poor heart pounding wildly, his kiss spilled through my soul, and I was lost.  His lips never left mine, yet he was all over my mouth.  Never before had I felt anything this wonderful.  I knew I'd pay dearly for my surrender, but I'd gladly pay it.  I hoped this kiss would never end.  

Wow!  Unlovable was fantastic.  It is such a sweet and tender tale that will appeal to any romantics at heart.  

Unlovable is definitely an effortless and addictive read.  I had other review books that I was meant to read before this but I thought I would have a little look just to see what it was like and ended up getting caught up in the plot (or should I say the romance) and finished it one sitting.  Gammon is a debut author but you would never tell from her wonderful writing.  Her prose is filled with plenty of emotion and really is a story from the heart.  While I found it easy to read the plot felt a little too perfect at times though.  Did it stop me personally from enjoying it? No but it may bother some readers so be warned.

Both Maggie and Seth are well rounded characters.  Maggie has a rough life but shows a lot of strength  for a a character that has had such a tough time.  She is a sweetheart that always seems to put others first.  Then you  have Seth.  A lovable guy with a big heart that would do anything to keep Maggie happy and safe.  It would be impossible for anybody not to like these two.

There is also some interesting secondary characters like Cole and Booker.  You just get the sense you are beginning to know them so it will be great to get their stories in Unbelievable and Unbearable.

Now on to the romance.  For me it is the strongest part of the plot and my favourite aspect of the story.  It definitely will make the the heart of any romantic melt.  Seth and Maggie have plenty of dreamy romance moments that will make you go  awwwwww.  But there relationship is not perfect as they have a few obstacles to over come but they never waiver about the way they feel for each other.

Overall, Unlovable is a passionate and engaging read that is perfect for fans of romance.  Can't wait more of the Port Fare world in Unbelievable.

Overall Rating: 4/5
Writing: 4/5
Plot: 3.5/5
Characters: 4/5
Romance: 4.5/5
Cover: 4/5

For more info:  Visit Sherry Gammon website.

For more reviews:  Book Passion for Life

*** Stayed tuned for an upcoming interview with Sherry Gammon and Giveaway of Unlovable*** 

Waterfall Wednesday - Week 3 - Chapters 12 to 17

Waterfall Wednesday is a weekly event hosted by Tina's Book Review, Edgy Inspirational Romance, Supernatural Snark, The Unread Reader and me.  For the period August 31st to September 28th each week we re-read chapters from Waterfall by Lisa Tawn Bergren and answer five questions.  To find out more on this awesome event visit Tina's Books Reviews. 

1. In Siena, on her way to the ball at Palazzo Pubblico, Gabi likened her experience to being on the red carpet at the Academy Awards, the goal being "to see and be seen." If you were a peasant, watching from the crowd, what would you be thinking as this procession passed by?

I would think it was amazing!  I would be loving all the gorgeous gowns and probably daydreaming one day I will get to attend such an event with a handsome knight on my side!

2. Though quite nervous about dancing at the ball, Gabi discovers a strange feeling of connection to the time, the people, and the society through the unified beauty of the dance. Have you ever been in a position where you felt out of your element, but, in one, pinpointed moment, became a part of or connected to something bigger than your fear?

Recently when my home state was 90% under water.  We all banned together as a community and tried to help those who needed it.  

3. The kiss. Oh, the kiss. When Marcello finally kisses Gabi, he believes the experience to be proof that they are meant to be together. What did you think about his assumption? Were you surprised at Gabi's reaction to it? Have you ever experienced a kiss that seemed to be prophetic in a similar (or opposite!) way?

I thought the fact that Marcello could tell he true feelings from the heart for Gabi after that kiss was sweet.  It made my swoon.  I think today we are a bit skeptical about instant love but I do believe it does exist.   When I saw my husband for the first time I knew he was meant for.  I wouldn't say I knew I was in love but rather that there was a special connection that I hadn't ever experienced before.

4. Many go through their teen years with a subdued sense of immortality. Do you think Gabi has a sense of this teen feeling? And did you think Gabi's converse observation, "Sometimes death came hunting and there was no way to cut it off at the pass." was informed more by the experience of losing her father, her self-admitted closet hypochondria, or the forced maturation of being transported to a different time? How does this observation show Gabi's growth as a character?

I think Gabi did until her father past away.  When you lose somebody your love you realise how precious every moment is.  For me this showed Gabi was a believable character and showed a lot of depth to her character.

5. In the span of a few moments, Gabi goes from sword-wielding teen beauty to man-killing warrior. Did you think her realization of the finality of death -- and her justification for its necessity -- was realistic? And, in her slippers, could you have done the same?


Yes.  Gabi is acting with her instinct by protecting the people she cares for.  I would do the same in her shoes.

Thank you to Edgy Inspirational Romance for this week's questions.

To sign up for this week and go into the draw win the trilogy set of this series also visit Edgy Inspirational Romance.

For next weeks questions visit Supernatural Snark.

Also one of my favourite bloggers Small Book Reviews is also having an amazing River of Time Series giveaway.  Visit her blog to enter! Do it now! You must read this series!

My Book Boyfriend #30 - Lord Greco

My Book Boyfriend is 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 pick is:

Lord Rodolfo Greco

from The River of Time Series by Lisa Tawn Bergren

I fought the urge to stare back at him.  Because he appeared more the Roman god than ever, all six feet of him, his olive skin glistening with oils beneath his white toga, tied at his waist.

(Warning:  The following quotes make contain some spoilers for Torrent.  So just look at the pretty picture if you don't want any spoilers)

He stilled, staring down at me so intently that he breathed in short huffs, as if he was holding his breath for a second at a time.  He shook his head again.  "Do not tempt me, Gabriella," he whispered.  "I am doing all I can."  He leaned closer and truly--it was someone else was controlling my body--I lifted my face closer to his.

He bent and took hold of my waist in his hands and lifted me up to it, then settled my slippered feet into the stirrups.  All the while he cast me small, lingering glances with his gorgeous, smoky-hot eyes, making me shift in the saddle, feeling uncomfortably warm.

I leaned into him, resting my face against his chest, feeling the ba-dump of his heartbeat, thinking.  And he wrapped his arms around me and remained still, waiting giving me time to think, stroking my back, my arms, holding his breath as if he wanted to say more and then thought better of it. 

What do you think of Lord Rodolfo Greco?

Have you read the River of Time series? 

Who is your favourite? Marcello? Luca? Rodolfo?

Thanks to Missie for hosting this meme!

Don't forgot to join in on Waterfall Wednesday all this month!

*** Missie, Jenny & Tina - Lord Greco is all MINE!

Book Review: Bloodlines by Richelle Mead

Bloodlines (Bloodlines #1) by Richelle Mead

Published by:  Penguin

Publication date:  23rd August, 2011

Source:  Thanks to publisher

The first book in Richelle Mead's brand-new teen fiction series - set in the same world as Vampire Academy.

When alchemist Sydney is ordered into hiding to protect the life of Moroi princess Jill Dragomir, the last place she expects to be sent is a human private school in Palm Springs, California. But at their new school, the drama is only just beginning.

Populated with new faces as well as familiar ones, Bloodlines explores all the friendship, romance, battles and betrayals that made the #1 New York Times bestselling Vampire Academy series so addictive - this time in a part-vampire, part-human setting where the stakes are even higher and everyone's out for blood.

My Review: 

Favourite Quote:  "Takes a lot of tries before you hit perfection." He paused to reconsider that. "Well, except for my parents. They got it on the first try." (Adrian)

Before starting Bloodlines I was in a reading slump.  No matter which book I tried nothing was really holding my attention.  But Bloodlines fixed that. I loved this book!  It was a incredible story that I couldn't get enough of.

Mead is one of my favourite authors.   Her writing is unbelievable.  Always intensely readable and fiercely entertaining.  Together with a plot that is full of tension and twists.  This series is a great mix of both the alchemist and vampires worlds.  And those two worlds could not be more different.

What I love about Mead's characters are that they are complicated.  No cardboard cut-outs of characters here.   I have to admit I wasn't sure if I was going to like Sydney as a main character.  She is so different from the kick-butt Rose (from Vampire Academy) who is one of my all time favourites.  But the more I read Bloodlines the more I liked Sydney.  She showed loyalty, courage, kindness and surprisingly strength.  I can definitely see her joining the ranks of my favourite characters.

Then you have Adrian.  I have always loved him in the Vampire Academy series and I am happy to see him play such a big role in this book.  He is charming, quick witted guy who is suffering from a broken heart.   At times I may have been a little tiny bit frustrated that he was playing the victim.  I know he is hurting (and I would love to make him all better *wink wink*) but it gets a little tired after a while.  So I was very happy that  as Bloodlines went on he started to show really growth and change as character and even had a hero moment or two.

Jill is such a sweet character.  One you want to hug.  I really connected with her and am looking forward to getting more of her story as this series goes on.  Then you have more some incredible secondary characters like Eddie from Vampire Academy and a bunch of newbies including Trey, Ms Terwillger and Micah.  As well as Abe who pops in every now and then and even a visit from Rose.

We all know how much I love a good romance in a story.  Well Bloodlines there is no romance yet but rather some delicious chemistry simmering.

And OH the ending!  Mead delivers her speciality - a knock-out ending that will leave you craving more. I wouldn't call it a cliffhanger as such but rather something that is going to leave you saying UH-OH this is going to be interesting.

Overall, Mead has delivered another novel that is nothing less than SUPERB.  Bloodlines is a must read!  Seriously run out and get a copy now!


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

For more info:  Visit Richelle Mead's website or Between The Lines.

For more reviews:  Collections

In My Mailbox #39 & Winner of Raw Blue

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

FOR REVIEW:


There Is No Dog by Meg Rosoff - Described as a "hilarious comic teen fantasy" from an award winning author Meg Rosoff.  Thanks to Penguin Australia.


Brightest Kind of Darkness by P.T. Michelle - A YA novel about a girl who has a special gift - she dreams each night the next day events.  Sounds really good and the cover is gorgeous.  Thanks to P.T. Michelle. 

BORROWED:

Practice Makes Perfect by Julie James - Adult contemporary romance.  I am loving Julie James' books at the moment.  Thanks to Nomes.

BOUGHT:

Torrent by Lisa T. Bergren - One of my favourite reads of this year so I had to have a print copy.  If you haven't read this series do so immediately!

The Dead Girls' Dance and Midnight Alley both by Rachel Caine - I already own both these books but I am trying to get  a matching set of the Australian edition.  And now it is complete!

What did you get in your mailbox?

WINNER OF RAW BLUE BY KIRSTY EAGAR!!!!

The winner of a signed copy of Raw Blue by Kirsty Eagar is:

Tatiana!!!!

Congratulations!  Thank you to everyone who participated during Kirsty Eagar week and a special thank you to Linds my co-host!  It was an amazing success.  Don't forget there are copies on tour if you are interested in reading Raw Blue.  If you live in the U.K. please check out My Keeper Shelf.  If you live in the U.S .the Book Harbinger has some spots left on her tour.

Mini Reviews #5

Intrinsical by Lani Woodland - Loved it.  Intrinsical is such a beautiful and haunting tale. Woodland's prose is gorgeous - "The pain in my chest returned and I gasped from it's intensity, folding myself in half.  A clammy chill kissed my skin as the light dimmed, a black fog slipping past the corner of my vision."  The plot is full of mystery and is a little creepy.  Then you have fantastic characters including a very swoon worthy crush.  Overall, an amazing start to this series.  Can't wait for Indelible (book #2).  Rating: 4.5/5 stars

The Unbecoming of Mara Dyer by Michelle Hodkin - Unfortunately, I didn't finish this. Read two thirds and just found myself get frustrated.  I can see why people are loving this but I am having a hard time liking the characters apart from Mara and also all the drama and twists.  I don't get the attraction to Noah and would just like the girl for once to fall for the normal average boy next door.  I just don't think I am in the mood for it rather than anything wrong with the book.   Probably will pick this up again one day when I can read the series from start to finish and get a resolved ending but right now this isn't the type of book I am looking for.  Rating:  2.5/5 stars

Forgotten by Cat Patrick - Really enjoyed this.  I absolutely loved the romance in this book.   It was so sweet and tender and just made me melt and is pretty much the reason I am giving this book such a high rating.  Really, I don't remember much else about the story as I was swooned off my feet.  Forgotten is a relaxing and easy read where the romantic relationship steals the show.   Rating: 4/5 stars 

Book Review: Deception by Lee Nichols

Deception (Haunting Emma Book 1) by Lee Nichols

Published by:  Bloomsbury Publishing

Publication date:  1st September, 2011

Source:  Thanks to publisher

When Emma Vaile's parents leave on mysterious business trip, it gives her the perfect excuse to be a rebellious teen. Throw some parties, get a tattoo (or maybe just a piercing), and enjoy the first few weeks of her junior year. Then her best friend stops talking to her, the cops crash her party, and Emma finds herself in the hands of a new guardian—her college-age "knight in J.Crew armor," Bennett Stern—and on a plane to his museum-like mansion in New England.

After enrolling at Thatcher Academy, Emma settles in by making friends with the popular legacy crowd. But she can't shake the strange visions that are haunting her. She has memories of Thatcher she can't explain, as if she's returning home to a place she's never been. Emma doesn't trust anyone anymore—except maybe Bennett. But he's about to reveal a ghostly secret to Emma. One that will explain the visions . . . and make Emma fear for her life.

My Review:

Favourite Quote:  "He really was perfect.   If only he was perfect for me."

Wow!  What an impressive start to an awesome new series!  I was surprised at how much I enjoyed Deception.

Deception was so easy to get into with it's engaging writing and perfect pacing.  It is a slightly eerie tale that never has a dull moment.  At the beginning I thought the plot was going to be a little predictable (but in the enjoyable sense) but there was quite a few completely unexpected twists.  I like the fact that Nichols' manage to surprise me.  It definitely makes me craving to find out what shocking surprises Nichols' has installed for us in book two Betrayal.

Emma was a fun and likeable character.  Despite her struggles she never really moped around but rather got on with things as best with things as she could.    I certainly don't think I would have been as strong as her with her family missing, moving into a strange town and suddenly being able to see ghosts.  Then you have the mysterious Bennett.  He was a hard to character to read at first but by the end of the book his secrets are starting to unravel.    I found the more he opened up the more I liked him.

However, the romance fell a little short for me.  Emma love life is a little complicated and I don't quite feel the chemistry with a certain guy.  I certainly see the potential of a amazing romantic relationship but I don't believe it yet.  Hopefully book #2 will change my mind.

Overall, Deception was a fun yet haunting tale with intriguing characters and a fantastic premise that kept me constantly entertained.  I can't wait for more.

Overall Rating: 4/5
Writing: 4/5
Plot: 4/5
Characters: 4/5
Romance: 2.5/5
Cover: 4/5

For more info:  Visit Lee Nichols' website.

Waterfall Wednesday - Week 2 - Chapters 7 to 11

Waterfall Wednesday is a weekly event hosted by Tina's Book Review, Edgy Inspirational Romance, Supernatural Snark, The Unread Reader and me.  For the period August 31st to September 28th each week we re-read chapters from Waterfall by Lisa Tawn Bergren and answer five questions.  To find out more on this awesome event visit Tina's Books Reviews. 

1. Gabi's search for her sister is made increasingly difficult by the fight for territory between Forelli and Castello Paratore.  At this point, do you think the rivalry is warranted? Why or why not?

I don't think the rivalry is really warranted.  I think Castello Paratore is just being greedy whereas Forelli is just protecting their own.  However, it is something that will never change (although I wish it would).  People will always fight over wanting more than they need.  Even today we have wars over territory.

2.  Gabi aids Fortino by having his sickroom cleaned out and using steam to loosen the phlegm inside his lungs so he could breathe better.  Have you ever found yourself in a situation that required you to rely on home remedies to aid yourself or another?  What are some of your favourite remedies?

Yes, I have definitely used home remedies.  I have eczema and when I first got it as a teenage it was really bad.  My legs were covered and not a clear spot.  So my sister and I made this homemade paste of oatmeal, milk and water and it soothed my skin.   Even today I usual a natural cream from the chemist which is made for an oatmeal based mix.

3.  Marcello and his men don't hide their surprise when they learn that Gabi is skilled with a sword.  What did you think of this development?  Has you initial impression of Gabi changed?  Do you have any secret skills?

I loved the fact that Gabi was able to physically take care of herself!  It made her more confident and gave me another reason to admire her strength and courage as a character.  I wish I had a secret skill but unfortunately I can't think of one.

4.  "Our lips were so close, I could feel the heat of his breath on my skin."  Gabi and Marcello's feelings for one another are beginning to stir.  What do you think of Marcello as a romantic interest thus far?  What do you think of his intended?

I was definitely swooning over Marcello.  I love that he is a genuine good guy and the fact that he is a knight just makes him even sexier.  I didn't like Lady Rossi at all.  I don't think she has a good heart. 

5.  Marcello and Luca take turns teaching Gabi the dances of Toscana.  Would you have liked to attend a ball like the one Gabi was practicing for?  Do you like to dance?  Do you know any cool dance moves?  Extra (not really) points if you YouTube yourself dancing and share the video.  Come on, it will be fun!

Ohhhhh I would loved to attend the ball especially if I got to dance with Marcello.  There was something so romantic about a ball and getting to dress up in a gorgeous gown (although I am sure it was uncomfortable).  I am not a huge dancer myself.  I get a bit shy but I think dancing with a partner back then would be easier as you have set moves and you are not all alone out there.   There is no way Missie that you could get me to YouTube myself dancing.   However my dance moves go a little like this: 

Thank you to Missie from The Unread Reader for this week's questions.

To sign up for this week and go into the draw win the trilogy set of this series also visit The Unread Reader.

Also one of my favourite bloggers Small Book Reviews is also having an amazing River of Time Series giveaway.  Visit her blog to enter! Do it now! You must read this series!