REVIEW and GIVEAWAY: SUDDENLY ROYAL by NICHOLE CHASE

Series: Suddenly #1
Genre: Contemporary Romance
Publisher: Avon Books
Publication Date: 11/26/13
Format: Paperback
Pages: 400
Source: Publisher
Rating: 3 stars

Samantha Rousseau is used to getting her hands dirty. Working toward a master’s degree in wildlife biology while helping take care of her sick father, she has no time for celebrity gossip, designer clothes, or lazy vacations. So when a duchess from the small country of Lilaria invites her to dinner, Samantha assumes it’s to discuss a donation for the program. The truth will change the course of her life in ways she never dreamed.

Alex D’Lynsal is trying to keep his name clean. As crown prince of Lilaria, he’s had his share of scandalous headlines, but the latest pictures have sent him packing to America and forced him to swear off women—especially women in the public eye. That is, until he meets Samantha Rousseau. She’s stubborn, feisty, and incredibly sexy. Not to mention heiress to an estate in his country, which makes her everyone’s front-page news.

While Sam tries to navigate the new world of politics and wealth, she will also have to dodge her growing feelings for Alex. Giving in to them means more than just falling in love; it would mean accepting the weight of an entire country on her shoulders.

Every girl (or thirty-something woman - whatever) loves a good princessy, royal story, right? You know, like Princess Diaries or The Prince and Me...those types in which an average girl learns she's from descended nobility or a handsome young Prince falls in love with her and spirits her away to a far away land in which she awkwardly learns the royal ropes while charming the masses. Though I've never been a Princess type, I've always liked that sort of story. In fact, I nearly wore out my Princess Diaries DVD when I was pregnant with my oldest.

My point is, I was looking forward to Suddenly Royal. A lot of my friends enjoyed it, the cover is cute, and I like a lot of Avon books. (Which, by the way, I don't think I've read an Avon book with such a sweet and mostly innocent tone.) I think I've become broken over the last few years, because it seems I'm just not into the sweet-long-lost nobility-story anymore. I was surprised, but I just didn't get into Suddenly Royal like I anticipated.

I liked that Sam was a wildlife biology major. My husband is a wildlife biologist -specifically, a fish biologist by profession (sexy, right? Stand back, he's mine), so I thought I might relate to that in a way because I should have an honorary degree by osmosis and tag-along field trips. It seems that this angle was covered pretty well, though I could have honestly done with more royalty and less raptor talk. And let me just stop to say that if me talking about birds and hawks and such is confusing you, because -shouldn't I be talking about cute princes? - I'm going on and on about this because all of this is in the book a lot. A lot.

And now that I think about it, I think I focused on the realities and science *shudder* because I couldn't focus on the royal aspect. Now, I can get down with vampires (BDB!) and some really unrealistic plots, in my paranormal, but in reality, I like for details to make sense. It bugged me that the home country is fictional (but I get why) and that it's smack in the middle of Europe, on top or underneath of Germany or something. It reminded me of that episode of Saved by the Bell when Jessie's dad was marrying that woman from Lichtenberg. I'm just...I get cranky about geography, okay? I worked really hard on memorizing all those teeny tiny countries and I need for that to make sense. I'm sorry. I won't even bore you with my thoughts on the feudal-type system going on in Lilaria or why it took sooooo many years to locate Sam's family.

You know what? I'll just say this: If you are into modern day, super sweet fairy tales, you'll probably enjoy Suddenly Royal a lot. It was a charming story, with very little friction, besides the awkward-ish love scenes that came out of nowhere. (I'm sorry! ) Because this was very reminiscent of other Surprise-You're-A- Royal stories, I pretty much knew what was coming the entire time. Every character was perfectly pleasant and everything pretty much went according to plan. I know I've had a crankypants tone throughout this review and it honestly wasn't intentional. I honestly thought I was still into this trope and I guess I'm not, at least not without more drama or in a different category. This book is very popular, and I can see why, for those who enjoy this type of story. Suddenly Royal was a nice story, in my opinion, which results in my overall good rating.



Favorite Quote:

  "Put down the knife, Samantha."
  "Why?" I hadn't realized I was still holding it. Mu voice was too high; excited. This close to him my brain was turning to mush. His blue eyes peered down into mine and I felt small and feminine.
  "Because I'm going to kiss you and I don't want to be stabbed when I do it."



GoodReads reviews from: Jenny and Aydrea

Suddenly Series

   
(covers lead to GoodReads page) 

Purchase Links

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About the author

Nichole Chase is a daydreamer. No, really, just ask any of the math teachers that had the misfortune of seeing her name appear on their class schedule. For years she has had story lines and characters begging for attention, but she resolutely pushed them aside to focus on more normal (read, boring) jobs. Well, no longer! She is currently heeding the voices in her head and frantically writing their stories. Nichole resides in South Georgia with her husband, energetic toddler, super hero dog, Sulcata tortoise, and two cats. When not devouring novels by the dozens, you may find her writing, painting, crafting, or chasing her daughter around the house while making monster noises.
  

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{REVIEW} MORTAL DEFIANCE (DARK BETRAYAL TRILOGY #2) by NICHOLE CHASE

Series: Dark Betrayal Trilogy #2
Genre: Paranormal YA
Publisher: Nichole Chase
Publication Date: 12/11
Format: ebook (Kindle)
Pages: 326
Source: Received from author for review.

One short week turned Ree McKenna’s life upside down. Not only does she have the weight of the world on her shoulders, but she still has to juggle homework, a job, and a curfew. While Ree tries to find her footing amidst the chaos, the Dark Ones and their champion are busy hunting down any humans that have a touch of the gods running through their veins. Allies have ffturned into foes, and enemies have become stronger.

The world is growing darker, but the passion between Ree and two irresistible guys blazes hotter. Romantic ties from a past life will threaten to break Ree away from the love of her life and will cloud her judgment. In order to follow her heart, Ree will break rules put in place by the gods, risking her life and the lives of her friends in an act of Mortal Defiance.

Mortal Defiance is the very strong follow-up to Nichole Chase's Mortal Obligation. I'm finding it very difficult to review this book without giving spoilers for it and for Mortal Obligation, so I'm going to be vague, but hopefully helpful, here.

Mortal Defiance picks up very shortly after the shocking end to book one. Ree, her friends and family are dealing with the consequences of the revelations and loss. Their enemies won't wait, though, so they must all get it together quickly, and battle for their lives. They must also contend with their constantly evolving powers, and dynamic.

I really like how Chase has taken several different paranormal elements: Vampires, Gods, Demi-Gods, and created her own spin on each element. Her world-building is very detailed, but not confusing, and I appreciate her thoroughness.

And as much as I enjoy the world of the Dark Betrayal series, I must admit, I am a romantic. I loved how the relationship between Ree and Paden has developed. Their attraction to one another felt authentic, not forced, and had just the right amount of steam. I find it very annoying in stories, and unrealistic, when the main character spends more time swooning that fighting when the world is falling down around her. Ree is falling in love, but that comes second to staying alive. Smart girl. I also like the (sort of) love triangle with Roland/Ree/Padon. Both boys seem to be good choices for Ree, and that makes for an excellent dilemma.

Mortal Defiance took everything I enjoyed about Mortal Obligation: the friendships, romance, danger, and action, and built upon that strong foundation. I'm really excited to see how it all goes down in book three, Immortal Grave.


Favorite Quote:

"He looked at her, and she noticed how much more relaxed he seemed just being near her. Her body and mind ached with the need to comfort him. Stepping into him, she wrapped her arms around his shoulders and pressed her head against his chest. A deep, pent-up sigh escaped him, and one arm slid around her waist while the other reached up to stroke her hair. Hours could have passed and Ree wouldn't have noticed. The only thing that mattered was the solace they offered each other."  (4%)


"Moving close to her, he leaned down so his lips grazed her ear. 'You're the only girl that I want to be with. The only girl that I look forward to seeing walk into a room. When I'm not with you, all I can think about is getting back to you. When you touch me, it's like fire running through my veins.' Gently turning her so she was facing him, he ran a thumb over her bottom lip, and she shivered. 'No one holds a candle to you.' " (47%)

You can purchase Mortal Defiance at:
Amazon  |  Barnes & Noble  |  Book Depository

The Dark Betrayal Series

(click on cover to find my review of Mortal Obligation)

Nichole Chase is a daydreamer. No, really, just ask any of the math teachers that had the misfortune of seeing her name appear on their class schedule. For years she has had story lines and characters begging for attention, but she resolutely pushed them aside to focus on more normal (read, boring) jobs. Well, no longer! She is currently heeding the voices in her head and frantically writing their stories. Nichole resides in South Georgia with her husband, energetic toddler, three dogs, and two cats. When not devouring novels by the dozens, you may find her writing, painting, crafting, or chasing her daughter around the house while making monster noises.

You can connect with Nichole at:
her website | GoodReads | Twitter | Facebook

COVER REVEAL ~ FLUKES by NICHOLE CHASE

I have another cover reveal for you all! Today is the cover reveal for Flukes, a new book from Nichole Chase. The cover was designed by Stephanie Mooney of Mooney Designs. The reveal is being hosted by AToMR Book Tours.

Meena has a secret guarded closely by her family—a secret as dangerous as the sea, and buried just as deep. When court appointed community service workers are assigned to Flukes, the family-owned animal habitat, everyone is on high alert. It doesn’t help that Meena finds herself attracted to sexy-as-sin Blake Weathering, one of the new workers. If he wasn’t so distracting, she might be able to land Flukes a much-needed cruise line contract.

Blake Weathering, the first in his family to attend public school, has developed a tough image. Unfortunately it lands him in trouble. Now banned from his high school graduation ceremony, getting his diploma is dependent upon a community service gig cleaning fish crap. No diploma, no trust fund fortune—and no way to escape his overbearing father. The last thing he needs is the distraction of a mysterious girl with teal eyes who pulls at his heart strings.

When Blake discovers Meena’s secret, they are both thrown into a desperate search for information about her past. Two worlds pull them in opposite directions, and they will have to fight to hold onto all that really matters.

Expected Release Date: October 8, 2012

Sounds good, yeah? Be sure and add Flukes to your to-read list.

Review ~ MORTAL OBLIGATION (Dark Betrayal Trilogy #1) by Nichole Chase

Ree will face the darkest form of betrayal before the year is out.

Seventeen year old Ree McKenna has three goals: get through high school, convince her crush she is more than his best friend’s little sister, and save money for college. Fate, though, has other plans for her. After the untimely death of her older brother, Ree is haunted by dreadful nightmares and terrifying visions. To make matters worse, Ree has started to suspect that something dangerous is stalking her from the shadows. A night full of frightening surprises leaves Ree with unsettling news. Gifted by the gods with unusual powers, she must devote herself to a battle that could very well lead to not only her death, but the demise of everyone she knows and loves. After all, Ree is the only mortal standing between the Earth and utter darkness.

Set in Savannah, Ga, Mortal Obligation is the first book of The Dark Betrayal Trilogy.

I know I've said this a lot, but lately, I've had a hard time getting into paranormal young adult books. I don't know for sure why that is. Possibly it's because many of the books feel like similar stories with minor tweaks. So I've started going into these books with a "cautiously optimistic" outlook.

 Mortal Obligation captured my attention right away. The plot isn't hesitant or plodding. The storyline fast-paced and steady. I don't enjoy books that dangle a secret over the reader for most of the story. It seems like a tactic to keep the reader hanging on. So I love that author Nichole Chase didn't waste time, leaving the reader wondering what Mortal Obligation is all about.

The lore behind Mortal Obligation was unique. I actually knew the basics of the paranormal aspect, because I forced a friend to tell me (thank you, Autumn!). But it was so much more. I don't want to inadvertently spoil the plot for future readers, but I can safely say that I've never come across a story with the same concept. The lore definitely went above and beyond my expectations.

I also enjoyed the characters. Ree was a typical teen, sweet, caring, and a bit shy. She handles her obstacles with a level head and determination. Her friends Jules, Bryce, Weylin and Melanie were funny and loyal. And I appreciate that Chase gave the group of friends ethnic diversity. Two thumbs up! And the guys, Padan and Roland are both worthy (I think) of Ree's affection. And I'd like to say Padan, as her life-long friend and crush would be the obvious choice, but... Roland was dark, maybe a bit dangerous and very yummy. We shall see.

So yes, I enjoyed Mortal Obligation very much. It was fast-paced, clever, and engaging. The ending dealt huge, shattering plot twist. And I feel like a dummy for saying this, but I didn't see it coming. It surprised me and I loved it. So if you're looking for a new take on paranormal, Mortal Obligation may be the book for you.

Favorite Quote:

"Suddenly she felt like the walls were too close. Her throat was tight, like she couldn't breathe. She was trapped. Trapped in this room, and trapped by responsibility, a responsibility that would most likely kill her." (ebook, 23%)


Published August 14th 2011

You can purchase Mortal Obligation at:
Amazon  |  Barnes and Noble  |  Book Depository  |  Smashwords

Nichole Chase is a daydreamer. No, really, just ask any of the math teachers that had the misfortune of seeing her name appear on their class schedule. For years she has had story lines and characters begging for attention, but she resolutely pushed them aside to focus on more normal (read, boring) jobs. Well, no longer! She is currently heeding the voices in her head and frantically writing their stories. Nichole resides in South Georgia with her husband, energetic toddler, three dogs, and two cats. When not devouring novels by the dozens, you may find her writing, painting, crafting, or chasing her daughter around the house while making monster noises.

You can connect with Nichole at:
her website  |  GoodReads  |  Twitter  |  Facebook

Source: Received from author in exchange for an honest review.

Cover Reveal ~ MORTAL OBLIGATION and MORTAL DEFIANCE, by Nichole Chase

Hey, guys. Today I have a nice treat for you! Author Nichole Chase is unveiling the new covers for her books MORTAL OBLIGATION and MORTAL DEFIANCE. They are gorgeous! Take a look.

Ree will face the darkest form of betrayal before the year is out. Seventeen year old Ree McKenna has three goals: get through high school, convince her crush she is more than his best friend’s little sister, and save money for college. Fate, though, has other plans for her. After the untimely death of her older brother, Ree is haunted by dreadful nightmares and terrifying visions. To make matters worse, Ree has started to suspect that something dangerous is stalking her from the shadows. A night full of frightening surprises leaves Ree with unsettling news. Gifted by the gods with unusual powers, she must devote herself to a battle that could very well lead to not only her death, but the demise of everyone she knows and loves. After all, Ree is the only mortal standing between the Earth and utter darkness.

One short week turned Ree McKenna’s life upside down. Not only does she have the weight of the world on her shoulders, but she still has to juggle homework, a job, and a curfew. While Ree tries to find her footing amidst the chaos, the Dark Ones and their champion are busy hunting down any humans that have a touch of the gods running through their veins. Allies have turned into foes, and enemies have become stronger. The world is growing darker, but the passion between Ree and two irresistible guys blazes hotter. Romantic ties from a past life will threaten to break Ree away from the love of her life and will cloud her judgment. In order to follow her heart, Ree will break rules put in place by the gods, risking her life and the lives of her friends in an act of Mortal Defiance.

Great, right?! Go add these to your GoodReads To-Read list.

You can purchase MORTAL OBLIGATION at:
Amazon  |  Barnes & Noble

You can purchase MORTAL DEFIANCE at:
Amazon  |  Barnes & Noble

You can find Nichole Chase at:
her website  | her blog  |  Facebook  |  Twitter