{REVIEW AND GIVEAWAY} EVE OF CHAOS (MARKED #3) by SYLVIA DAY

Series: Marked #3
Genre: Adult Urban Fantasy
Publisher: Tor Books
Publication Date: 2/26/13
Format: Paperback
Pages: 384
Source: Received from publisher for review

How do you tell Satan that you ran over his hellhound? Evangeline Hollis has no idea and she doesn't want to find out. Living with the Mark of Cain -- and the two sexy brothers who come with it -- is trouble enough. She doesn't need to borrow more. Too bad Satan is too pissed to oblige her. Incensed at the loss of his pet, Satan has put a bounty on Eve's head, and Hell's denizens are converging en masse. The proliferation of Infernals is complicating Eve's hunts and creating chaos in her once orderly life. They've also brought her to the attention of an overzealous reverend who is certain she's Jezebel reincarnate.
How can a Mark drafted by God strike a bargain with the Devil? Eve's about to find out...

Wow. At this point, it is so hard to review this series without spoilers for those who either haven't started or aren't caught up in the Marked series. But let me just say, I freaking love these books!

In the Marked series, Sylvia Day has basically taken the story of Adam and Eve, Cain and Abel... and has created this insanely imaginative and intense series. I love that I have a basic knowledge to reference these characters and their backgrounds on. I love that Day has forced me to stop, take a step back, and look at the oldest story ever through new eyes.  And maybe I'm over thinking things, but I love that I am seeing these characters and their stories, their pains and frustrations, and their choices, through a whole new perspective. 

Now for the characters. Eve is a badass. I love how pragmatic she is. I know that it would be completely realistic and understandable if she was a character who hated her life and whined about it all the time; I know I would. But I love how she has mostly accepted that the insanity is her life, for now, and she has gotten busy with getting the job done. Of course, the insanity is an easier pill to swallow when you have both Cain and Abel willing to lend a hand...

And seriously, these two are just about the sexiest heroes I've ever read. For all of Eve of Darkness and most of Eve of Destruction, I was firmly on Team Cain. He and Eve have a long sexy history and I love them together. The way they "interact" both in and out of the bedroom is steamy and fun. But something BIG came between them in Eve of Destruction, and it pushed her and Abel closer together. Now, don't get me wrong, I wouldn't kick Abel out of my bed (or stairwell) but he's not Cain! He's aloof, well-polished, and doesn't seem to care about Eve... until this book. And now that Eve has gotten to know him better, I'm torn. Both brothers are gorgeous, seductive, protective, smart and dangerous. Both hold a piece of Eve's heart, but only one can win. Who. Will. It. Be?!?

Eve of Chaos was a great addition to the series. There were so many crazy intense scenes, twist and turns in the plot, and insane revelations in the story. This is the ultimate story of Good vs. Evil, with some brilliant shades of grey thrown in. I can't wait to continue this brilliant series.


Favorite Quote:

  "....I should be listening to your body language and not the crap coming out of your mouth. I should toss your ass over the arm of the couch and nail you. Then you'd know this brush-off sh*t doesn't work with me."
  "I wouldn't f*#k you if you were the last man on earth."
  Reed held a hand to his ear. "Did you hear that? That was the sound of the gloves coming off."
  ~pg 80


  He was spurred by the knowledge that this was Eve, the woman he wanted for reasons unrelated to sex. Now she was right where he wanted her--spread and willing, mewling with helpless pleasure. They were in the moment together, connected body and mind. He hadn't known he was alone--an angel who stood apart--until he wasn't alone any longer.  ~pg 135

The Marked Series

(click on cover for GoodReads page)

My Reviews of Eve of Darkness & Eve of Destruction

 

 

Purchase the books at:

Amazon  |  Barnes & Noble  |  Book Depository

 

 

About the author

Sylvia Day (aka S. J. Day and Livia Dare) is the #1 New York Times and #1 international bestselling author of more than a dozen award-winning novels translated into over three dozen languages. She has been nominated for the Goodreads Choice Award for Best Author and her work has been honored as Amazon's Best of the Year in Romance. She has won the RT Book Reviews Reviewers’ Choice Award and been nominated for Romance Writers of America's prestigious RITA® award twice.

Connect with Sylvia at her website

 

 

 

GIVEAWAY

 

I have a giveaway for you, courtesy of Tor Books. One winner will win their choice of Eve of  Darkness, Eve of Destruction, or Eve of Chaos.

Open US Only

Must be 17+ years of age to enter.

 

 

a Rafflecopter giveaway

 

 

{REVIEWS} EVE OF DARKNESS and EVE OF DESTRUCTION (MARKED #1,2) by SYLVIA DAY

Series: Marked #1
Genre: Adult Urban Fantasy
Publisher: Tor Books
Publication Date: 1/8/13
Format: Paperback (reissued)
Pages: 348
Source: Received from publisher for review

From the #1 New York Times bestselling author of Bared to You

Years ago, Evangeline Hollis spent a blistering night with a darkly seductive man she can’t forget. But that evening of addictive pleasure has become a disaster of biblical proportions: She’s been branded with the Mark of Cain.

Thrust into a world where sinners are marked and drafted to kill demons, Eve’s former one-night stand, Cain, is now her mentor—and his equally sexy brother Abel is her new boss.

Now Eve has become the latest point of contention in the oldest case of sibling rivalry in history...

Cursed by God, hunted by demons, desired by Cain and Abel... All in a day's work.

 

Having heard tons of praise for author Sylvia Day, but not having read any of her books for myself, I had somewhat good expectations for Eve of Darkness. I enjoy a lot of the adult urban fantasy books that I read. I loved Eve of Darkness.

The story places the reader immediately into the Marked world. It was definitely attention-grabbing, but it did take me a bit to gain my bearings. I actually even double-checked to make sure I didn't pick up the second book in the series. Once I realized that the story was going to go back and fill in the details, I was okay. The Marked world was pretty cool and definitely fascinating. There is a good amount of religious aspects to the story, but I wouldn't let that put you off if you are afraid to read books with religion. I found my background with religion to be helpful to me with the world-building, but I admit that I'm afraid my grandmother would be devastated! Nevertheless, though there are angels, I wouldn't shy away from Eve of Darkness if you don't like angel books. This read to me as more of a demon hunter story. And it rocked.

Eve is a badass. Minding her own business, she gets dragged into this insane world where she must fight demons and grapple with a world in which she is a pawn. Eve just sort of accepted the situation, which may be a tad unrealistic, but I was just happy that I didn't have to read about her denial of reality for pages on end. It should also be noted that Eve is biracial, Japanese/American. I loved her ethnicity and wanted to point that out for those looking for more diversity in their books.

As for the men in Eve's life, Cain and Abel. Yes, that Cain and Abel. These two have been fighting since the beginning of the world, and the battle for Eve is no exception. The man are seriously sexy, seriously aggravating and seriously dangerous. I kind of loved them. They both have been involved with Eve, both seem to care for her. I'm not sure whose team I'm on, but I'm definitely leaning towards Cain. AND...this book is suuuuper steamy. Like, steamy enough that I was blushing and trying to hide my book as I was reading on a plane. YUM.

Overall, I would say Eve of Darkness was pretty fantastic. Despite my initial confusion, I quickly fell in love and read the book in a matter of a couple hours. I will say that if you read it, definitely have book two, Eve of Destruction on hand because you will need that book immediately.



Favorite Quote:

  Reed ran the bitten side of the apple from the hollow of her throat down to her cleavage. Shivering, Eve reached behind her and gripped the edge of the counter. He lowered his head slowly, watching her, giving her time to pull away. His tongue touched her skin and slid up the trail he'd made in a long, slow glide. His teeth nipped at her chin, then he moved to take her mouth.  ~pg. 69




Series: Marked #2
Genre: Adult Urban Fantasy
Publisher: Tor Books
Publication Date: 1/29/13
Format: Paperback (reissued)
Pages: 432
Source: Received from publisher for review

From the #1 New York Times bestselling author of Bared to You

Class is in, but Evangeline Hollis is struggling to get through the requisite training to be a full-fledged Mark. When her class goes on a field trip to an abandoned military base, passing the course isn’t just a matter of pride…it’s a matter of life and death. There’s a demon hidden among them, killing off Eve’s classmates one by one. As the body count mounts, a ragtag team of cable TV ghost hunters unwittingly stumbles into the carnage. Now keeping the Mark system secret competes with the need to keep the “paranormal researchers” alive. With Cain on assignment and Abel on an investigation, Eve must fly solo on her hunt to stop a killer before he strikes again.

 

*** This review will be spoiler-free for Eve of Destruction*** 

 

 

 

This book. THIS BOOK. I thought Eve of Destruction was going to kill me. The story picks up soon after Eve of Darkness ends, and did not quit surprising me and holding me on the edge until the very end.

 

I was a little worried at the beginning of Eve of Destruction. Second books in a series, particularly Urban Fantasy, sometimes feel a bit lacking to me. The world has been established. The characters have been formed. It's time to get to business. I did not feel let down at all in this installment of the Marked series. Eve has survived her first few weeks of being a Mark; now she must train. Her training sends her off to a "boot camp", where she is under the guidance of her Archangel. Training doesn't go as planned, at all. In fact, things are going to hell, in the literal sense. Marks are dying, in a supposedly safe environment, and Eve needs to figure out who is behind the carnage, or she will be next. What's worse is that her guys, Cain and Abel, aren't there to save her now.

 

Cain and Abel. These two... man, I can't even believe how much I like these guys. They have been at odds since the beginning, and I love the way the antagonize one another. In the last book, I couldn't decide which guy I liked the best, but I think I'm totally Team Alec Cain. He is so sexy and fun and I honestly believe he is so in love with Eve. As for Reed Abel, I do like him, too. I think there's a lot more going on with him than I originally thought, though we don't get much from his point of view. Despite being the "good" brother, he is definitely a little rough(er) around the edges when it comes to Eve. And though she wants to be with Cain, she is without a doubt drawn to Abel and his wicked ways. The chemistry between Eve and the brothers is intense. And deliciously complicated. She loves one, but is drawn to both. I was a little sad that Eve of Destruction had fewer steamy moments (no judging me), but I did love what few moments I got.

 

Eve of Destruction had a HUGE plot twist that I did not think would come until further down the road. I was completely blindsided, and I felt majorly distraught. But, I have to say, that it was well played by Day, because I am dying, DYING for Eve of Chaos. That book will be a drop everything and read for me.

 

Favorite Quote:

  He loved who Eve was and that wasn't going to change, but he also missed the eighteen-year-old girl who'd given her innocence to him. That was one of the penalties for his sin, the same penalty his parents had paid when they gave in to temptation -- you can take what you shouldn't, but in the end you still won't get what you wanted.  ~ pg 82


  "Right now, I could tell you to cool off with a shower and an ice pack. I could tell you to find the blonde who has issues with you and knock out some stress that way. I could suggest that you slip away and get yourself off without me. But I'm not going to do any of those things, Eve, because I need to be your go-to guy." He paused, then, "And I need Abel to not be that guy."  ~pg 225

The Marked Series

(click on cover for GoodReads page)

TEASER TUESDAY ~ EVE OF DARKNESS

Teaser Tuesday is a weekly bookish meme hosted by MizB of Should Be Reading. Anyone can play along, just do as following:

·Grab your current read
·Open to a random page
·Share two (2) "teaser" sentences from somewhere on that page
·Be careful not to include any spoilers so as not to ruin the book for others.

Make sure to share the title and the author so other TT participants can add the book to their TBR piles.

Series: Marked #1
Genre: Adult Urban Fantasy
Publisher: Tor Books
Publication Date: 1/8/13

From the #1 New York Times bestselling author of Bared to You

Years ago, Evangeline Hollis spent a blistering night with a darkly seductive man she can’t forget. But that evening of addictive pleasure has become a disaster of biblical proportions: She’s been branded with the Mark of Cain.

Thrust into a world where sinners are marked and drafted to kill demons, Eve’s former one-night stand, Cain, is now her mentor—and his equally sexy brother Abel is her new boss.

Now Eve has become the latest point of contention in the oldest case of sibling rivalry in history...

Cursed by God, hunted by demons, desired by Cain and Abel... All in a day's work.

My Teaser ~

  Her voice came as no more than a whisper. "I haven't done anything wrong."
  "You're right, angel. You haven't." His lips pressed hard to her damp forehead.
  "Then wny?"
  He exhaled harshly. "Becuase of me. Because I couldn't resist you."  ~pg 39

What do you think? Have a teaser? Be sure and leave a comment so I can check it out! 

JUST BREATHE BLOG TOUR ~ CHARACTER INTERVIEW & GIVEAWAYS

Welcome to my second stop on the Just Breathe Blog Tour! The tour is being hosted by Mirely at Rumor Has It; you can find the entire tour schedule here. Today's stop is a little bit different, a little bit crazy, and a whole lot of AWESOME.  But first, take a look at Just Breathe, and be sure to check out the blog tour GIVEAWAYS at the end of my post!














He made a deal with the devil to save the woman he loves…

After tragedy rocks the foundation of their relationship, Australian Sentinel Gavin Cassidy and whale biologist Zoe Morgan call it quits. Gavin can’t forgive himself for shattering her trust, and being with the sexy rock star is killing Zoe. Literally.

But love—and duty—are powerful motivators, and alliances are forged in the most unlikely places. With the key to salvation locked inside the mind of an unconscious child, Gavin must find another way to snuff out the Fyre Elementals before millions of humans die, or make good on his deal with the devil and lose the one he loves. Again.

*This book contains graphic language, sex, and violence. Not suitable for readers under the age of 18.

**The author will donate all profits from the sale of the JUST BREATHE trilogy to programs that educate people about whales and the challenges they face.

Okay, at the top of the post, I promised you AWESOME. Now I'm going to deliver. I had the chance to open a discussion with the characters from the series. So, yes, I had the opportunity to ask about important subjects such as Elements, the fight to keep the balance, undying love, death, etc. I chose to ask the characters about...CARS. See what happened when Zoe, Gavin and the gang were unleashed. Enjoy the chaos!

Andrea: Hey, Just Breathers! So, my question is this: What kind of car do you drive? Does it match your personality?

Byrn: Busted-ass '99 Ford Focus. I may be a Fyre Elemental, but that don't mean I'm rich.

Andrea: Huh. I would've maybe pegged you as a motorcycle man.

Bryn: Lemme borrow your car, Andrea. I’ll take you for a ride, baby.

 

Andrea: Only if you promise to take me to Carnival. *wink*

Vexx: *Busts out laughing* Byrn, I just pictured you on a kid’s bicycle, wobbling all over the road, tires all fat and plumping out to the sides. Best part? Your hair blowing in the wind like Fabio as you struggle to maintain control of the tiny handlebars. "Hey, Andrea, your ride's here, baby!" *Dissolves into uncontrollable giggles*

 

Andrea: Vexx - I like you already.

Gavin: *Eyes Andrea warily* You really have no idea what you're getting yourself into, do you? He's never gonna leave you alone now.

You asked about cars. Mine's a beaut. A black 1970 Holden HT Monaro. Stripes on the bonnet. Looks like this one, though it's the wrong color and off by a year. Close enough. My favorite part about the car is the bench back seat. Though, if you push the front seat back far enough, you can find additional...leg room. *Lifts a brow at Zed*

 

Andrea: Happy sigh... Gavin, you'll always be my #1. If I can't have you, Byrne's not a bad runner-up. Oh, and that's a sexy car. Too bad I'll never get to test out the leg room.

Gavin: Thanks, love. Byrn's had everyone and their donkey. No telling what sorts of buggery buggers are on him. *Shivers*

Hop in. I'll take you for a quick ride. *Dangles keys and grins*

Andrea: I'm coming!!!

Kendall Grey: Oh, I'll bet you are! ;-)

 

*An hour later*

Zoe Morgan: Did you guys have fun? Andrea, your hair is a mess. *Raises a brow at Gavin* He took you mudding, didn't he? Please tell me you took Mike's Jeep.

Andrea: *smooths hair* Whew, that was fun. Thanks for letting me borrow Gavin for a bit, Zoe. You're one lucky chick.

Gavin: *High fives Andrea and winks*

 

Andrea: *looks at hand Gavin touched* *faints*

 

*A blood red Porsche 997 Turbo Cabrio rolls up in third gear with a mighty growl* *Scarlet gets out, looks Andrea over*

 

Scarlet: Well, at least you're not bimbo-blond, doe-eyed, and full of Water. Had fun with him, huh? Don't we all... *Cracks a knowing grin* His car's cute. Mine's a fucking beast. I'll take you for a ride you'll never forget.

 

Andrea: *blushes* Uh...hi, Scarlet. Nice car. I think I've had enough for tonight.

 

Scarlet: *Flicks Andrea's hair, then circles her* You've got a lot of Earth in you. It's not Fire, but it's also not Water. I like you. If you change your mind about the ride, strike a match and call my name. I can be there in a flare. *Laughs*

Andrea: *blinks* I think Scarlet just hit on me. She's so hot. Must...stay...strong.

Amy (Book Loving Mom): Haha!! Probably one that's way better than she deserves! Maybe some type of tranformer car to be as deceptive as she is. Oooh, you are asking for trouble!

Jack Weaver: Never underestimate the power of a Fyre with all of her screws loose.

So, cars, huh? I drive all kinds. Motor home, cab, tractor, ambulance on occasion. I like to keep my options open. Though I gotta say, I sure wouldn't mind snagging Gavin's ride. That's a sweet piece of vehicular pie right there. *Whistles appreciatively and crunches apple*

Zoe: *Laughs* That's Jack. He's got more outs than a baseball game in overtime. Gotta love him!

 

* * * * FIN * * * *

See? I told you it would be fun! I had such a blast participating, well, actually, just trying to keep my head from spinning. That Gavin sure is dreamy and, wow, Scarlet HIT ON ME! I may never recover.

Just Breathe Series

(click on cover to hit the GoodReads page)

My Reviews of:

Inhale | Exhale

Just Breathe Ephemera

(click on cover to hit the GoodReads page)

My Reviews of:

Stifle | Letting Go | Dirty | Vexxed

Purchase Inhale at:

Kindle | Nook | paperback

Purchase Exhale:

Kindle | Nook | paperback

Purchase Just Breathe:

Amazon | Barnes & Noble

About the author:

Word diddler and whale warrior, Kendall was born without an off-switch between her brain and mouth. She's been called the "Flux Capacitor of Twitter" and "A little package of love all wrapped up in F-word paper," but she's really just a maniacal writer relaying eyewitness accounts of the rave inside her head. She writes urban fantasy with strong romantic elements and also dabbles in erotica and horror on occasion.

Kendall lives off a dirt road near Atlanta, Georgia, but don't hold that against her

Be sure to check out the Just Breathe Trilogy website for all things Just Breathe!

All profits from the sales of INHALE, EXHALE, and JUST BREATHE will be donated to whale education.

Connect with Kendall at:

Newsletter |

Just Breathe Novels | Facebook | Despicable Tweets | Goodreads

 

GIVEAWAYS

 

 

Kendall is currently holding a giveaway for a Kindle Fire HD

 

a Rafflecopter giveaway

CRN Care Package

One CRN T-shirt

One Signed Inhale Postcard

One Signed Exhale Postcard

One Inhale USB

One Exhale paperback

One Just Breathe paperback

One Mug

Scarlet's Chai

Zoe's fave brew

Sinnder's Ginger Snaps

Gavin and Yileen's Tim Tams

 

a Rafflecopter giveaway

I also have one ecopy of any book in the series, including the Ephemeras, to give away. To make this super easy for you, simply comment to enter on my review of Just Breathe. You can also tweet or share the giveaway on Facebook for an extra entry. Just leave a link.

JUST BREATHE BLOG TOUR ~ REVIEW AND GIVEAWAYS

Welcome to my stop on the Just Breathe Blog Tour! The tour is being hosted by Mirely at Rumor Has It; you can find the entire tour schedule here. My stop includes my review of Just Breathe, and Giveaways!














He made a deal with the devil to save the woman he loves…

After tragedy rocks the foundation of their relationship, Australian Sentinel Gavin Cassidy and whale biologist Zoe Morgan call it quits. Gavin can’t forgive himself for shattering her trust, and being with the sexy rock star is killing Zoe. Literally.

But love—and duty—are powerful motivators, and alliances are forged in the most unlikely places. With the key to salvation locked inside the mind of an unconscious child, Gavin must find another way to snuff out the Fyre Elementals before millions of humans die, or make good on his deal with the devil and lose the one he loves. Again.

*This book contains graphic language, sex, and violence. Not suitable for readers under the age of 18.

**The author will donate all profits from the sale of the JUST BREATHE trilogy to programs that educate people about whales and the challenges they face.

 

 

INHALE...EXHALE...JUST BREATHE...

Look. I'm not even going to pretend that Just Breathe is just any other book. Or that I don't have seriously strong feelings about each book, the series as a whole, as well as author Kendall Grey. The Just Breathe Series is one that I've become deeply invested in, beginning nearly two years ago when Grey first started telling me about the concept. I'm not going to pretend that I didn't go into this book whole-hearted and expecting epicness. Of all the books that are coming out in 2013, Just Breathe is the book that sat atop my most-wanted list. After reading, Just Breathe sits at the top of my "Favorite Books Ever" list; followed closely by Inhale and Exhale. So just know right now, I'm going to be gushing and dramatic throughout this review.

Just Breathe is a huge story. After the hellaciously shocking ending of Exhale, I was geared up for a fight. I almost felt as if I had to go into this ready for battle. The Dreaming, Australia, even the world, was at stake. And so was Gavin and Zoe's relationship. So I hardened my heart (what a joke!) and girded my loins (heh) and settled in. Bring it.

What Grey delivered was fantastic. Gavin and Zoe are in a bad spot, with the situation in The Dreaming, and with each other. There were feelings of betrayal, anguish, self-loathing, anger, and most importantly true love, that were swirling through their atmosphere. Could Zoe ever truly get past what happened? Could Gavin ever forgive himself? Would their fragile, new relationship survive? Would they even live to see it through? Because not only do they need to sort things out with each other, they need to save the world. And that duty to what's right is what comes first for the pair. It was a beautiful thing to see Gavin come from that very first scene of Inhale, all the way to becoming the honorable man I always knew he could be. To embrace the warrior within the man. And not only does Gavin reach his potential, but so does Zoe. She started the series as a determined, yet haunted woman, full of self-doubt and guilt. Throughout the series she evolves and moves toward her true self. She may be human, albeit with an extra ability, but she has the power to create miracles. Destiny brought them together.

Though the series has centered around Gavin and Zoe, there is a wealth of secondary characters in the series. Jack, Zoe's father, was brilliant. He's smart, a smartass, a good father and a good friend. The man is like a sensei. One of my favorite characters. Jet, Vexx, and Byrne were new characters in Just Breathe (though the are introduced in the Ephemera stories) and they each made a nice impact in the story. Scarlet...I can't even type that name without snarling. Seriously one of the most vile, horrific, yet alluring characters I have ever met. (Voldemort who?) I hated, hated, HATED her and wanted her to die a watery death. And Sinnder. Sinnder is complex. He started the series as a bad guy, and slowly revealed glimpses of a pained man behind the Fyre. Though it wasn't always apparent, I had faith in him.

To say that I was happy with Just Breathe would be a massive understatement. I was overwhelmed by such intense emotions. As I read, I alternated between smiling, swooning (hot fudge!), sobbing, gasping, shaking, and laughing. Just Breathe was the ultimate package of awesome. I absolutely swear, it was perfect.

Just Breathe is a series that lives. The characters, the emotions and reactions they evoke, have become a part of my life. The amount of love, thought, time, and tears Kendall Grey has put into this world is apparent to those who read it. I said before that the Just Breathe Series is art, pure and simple. Art is not only something we can see and touch, but also something that inspires, causes intense feeling, thought, and discussion. By my simple terms, no books fit that definition better than Inhale...Exhale...Just Breathe.

Thank you, Kendall Grey. I will never forget Zoe, Gavin, Jack, Yileen, Lily, Sinnder, Adriene, Jet, Byrne, Vexx and the rest of the characters (yes, even that miserable bitch Scarlet.) You've given me more than I could have ever dreamed of. It has been a real privilege to fall in love with your books.


Favorite Quotes:

  "You staked your claim on me the moment I rescued you in the Dreaming. My heart--my Water--belongs here with yours." He slid his palm to the center of her chest where the traitorous organ thudded loud enough to hear.
  Emotions in a flurry, she closed her eyes and gave in to them. Just feel him. Just breathe him.  ~ eARC 34%


  His friends probably never saw past the happy-go-lucky rock star persona, but she did. The passion, the mastery, the depth of feeling--
  The Dreaming and its Sentinels had claimed him like an early death.
  So unfair.
  Gavin deserved a beautiful life he'd never get to lead, thanks to the Fyres.
  Palming the tears aside, Zoe shuddered through a hard breath, those touching notes stealing bits and pieces of her soul. Didn't matter. He could have them.  ~ eARC, 60%


  He couldn't tell if she forgave him, pitied him, or was saying goodbye, but as long as she held onto him, he didn't care. For now, she ws all that mattered.
  Several minutes passed before she pulled away. When she looked up at him, her face filled with pride. "I love who you are, Mr. Perfect. Don't ever change. For me or anyone else."
  His heart swelled, his senses soared, and his Water bubbled. He snatched her back into his embrace and kissed her like it was the end of the world. Tears mingled with Water...Rising and falling...Ebbing and flowing...
  Dizzying.  ~ eARC, 75%


  Gavin inhaled a breath and released it slowly. He was ready to take that leap and risk crashing a thousand times for Zoe. "I'm certain. I love Zoe. This is the only way we can be together. Where she goes, I go."  ~eARC, 93%

Just Breathe Series

(click on cover to hit the GoodReads page)

My Reviews of:

Inhale | Exhale

Just Breathe Ephemera

(click on cover to hit the GoodReads page)

My Reviews of:

Stifle | Letting Go | Dirty | Vexxed

Get Inhale for FREE at:

Kindle | Nook 


Purchase Exhale at:

Kindle | Nook | paperback

Purchase Just Breathe :

Amazon | Barnes & Noble

About the author:

Word diddler and whale warrior, Kendall was born without an off-switch between her brain and mouth. She's been called the "Flux Capacitor of Twitter" and "A little package of love all wrapped up in F-word paper," but she's really just a maniacal writer relaying eyewitness accounts of the rave inside her head. She writes urban fantasy with strong romantic elements and also dabbles in erotica and horror on occasion.

Kendall lives off a dirt road near Atlanta, Georgia, but don't hold that against her.

Be sure to check out the Just Breathe Trilogy website for all things Just Breathe!
 

All profits from the sales of INHALE, EXHALE, and JUST BREATHE will be donated to whale education.

 

Connect with Kendall at:
 

Newsletter |

Just Breathe Novels | Facebook | Despicable Tweets | Goodreads

 

GIVEAWAYS

 

 

Kendall is currently holding a giveaway for a Kindle Fire HD

 

a Rafflecopter giveaway

CRN Care Package

One CRN T-shirt

One Signed Inhale Postcard

One Signed Exhale Postcard

One Inhale USB

One Exhale paperback

One Just Breathe paperback

One Mug

Scarlet's Chai

Zoe's fave brew

Sinnder's Ginger Snaps

Gavin and Yileen's Tim Tams

 

a Rafflecopter giveaway

I also have one ecopy of any book in the series, including the Ephemeras, to give away. To make this super easy for you, simply comment to enter. Which Element would you most like to be: Erthe, Fyre, Waeter, Aer? You can also tweet or share the giveaway on Facebook for an extra entry. Just leave a link.

{REVIEW} ANGEL'S INK (THE ASYLUM TALES #1) by JOCELYNN DRAKE

Series: The Asylum Tales #1
Genre: Adult Urban Fantasy
Publisher: Harper Voyager
Publication Date: Oct. 16, 2012
Format: eARC
Pages: 368
Source: Received from publisher via Edelweiss

Buyer beware . . .

Looking for a tattoo-and maybe a little something extra: a burst of good luck, a dollop of true love, or even a hex on an ex? Head to the quiet and mysterious Gage, the best skin artist in town. Using his unique potions-a blend of extraordinary ingredients and special inks-to etch the right symbol, he can fulfill any heart's desire. But in a place like Low Town, where elves, faeries, trolls, werewolves, and vampires happily walk among humanity, everything has its price.

No one knows that better than Gage. Turning his back on his own kind, he left the magical Ivory Tower where cruel witches and warlocks rule, a decision that cost him the right to practice magic. And if he disobeys, his punishment-execution-will be swift.

Though he's tried to fly under the radar, Gage can't hide from powerful warlocks who want him dead-or the secrets of his own past. But with the help of his friends, Trixie, a gorgeous elf who hides her true identity, and a hulking troll named Bronx, Gage just might make it through this enchanted world alive.

Why I Chose to Read Angel's Ink:
 I received a review offer from the publicist, and the moment I saw the cover, I knew I had to read this book.


In a world where supernatural beings and humans have an uneasy coexistence, the power of magic is everywhere. Even in the Ink.

Angel's Ink represents everything that I love about Adult Urban Fantasy. You have characters who a complicated, tough, and have that extra special supernatural edge, a plot that is full of tension and action, and brilliant, gritty world-building. I didn't realize how much I had missed these elements in my reading, but this book was quick to remind me, basically, by the end of the first page.

Angel's Ink centers around tattoo-parlor owner Gage Powell, a man who walked away from the Ivory Towers, home of the most powerful of beings, witches and warlocks. Tired of the cruel, insensitive training and the discriminatory stance on humans, Gage was willing to give up everything, even his right to use magic. The only time he is able to perform magic without the threat of execution is in self-defense. But suddenly, Gage is defending himself at every turn.

Gage is joined at Angel's Ink by Trixie, an elf, and Bronx, a troll. Bronx, despite what we might assume of a troll, was so much fun, a big sweetie. He's very astute, yet very quiet. Bronx is the muscle in the shop, but also has a soft side for Gage and Trixie. Trixie is perfection. Many books tend to have strong female love interests who are prickly, try to keep the leading man at bay with dirty looks and sarcasm. That's fun, usually, but it's also nice to have a girl who isn't trying to push everyone away. Trixie is a tough girl, she wouldn't have survived her own crazy past otherwise, but she was also easy to adore. Her affection for Bronx and Gage was apparent.

Angel's Ink has a nice assortment of secondary characters, all who serve a distinct purpose in the story. There's Tera, a sweet human who's innocent request sets of a tragic chain of events; Gideon, a warlock who is tasked with watching Gage, and has a very surprising side; cruel Simon, Gage's former mentor at the Ivory Towers, Sparks, who gave Gage when he re-entered human society; Sofia, who was just plain crazy fun.

To say that Angel's Ink had an action-packed plot would be a massive understatement. From the first line of the book, Gage is confronted by people who want to do him in. Between the people who want Gage out of their way for leaving the magic community, an unsatisfied customer, to the freaking Grim Reaper, you could easily say that, yeah, Gage is up to his ears in trouble. But along the way, you see true friendship, a developing relationship that is both sweet and sexy, and people who will sacrifice to save those the love.

Now for the world-building: Angel's Ink has it, and it is So. Damn. Good. Drake has built such an elaborate, well-explained, very complete world. The first thing that hooked me, Gage uses potions to give his ink special enhancements. Seriously, tattoos are everywhere in books these days and I love it! There is a back story that explains who is in power (witches and warlocks) and how it was established (the Great War). The supernatural hierarchy was detailed, from the top of the heap, witches and warlocks, to the bottom, pixies, whose organs are harvested for potions (infuriating, right?!). Drake included so many great details such as: vampires can't be inked unless there's garlic in the potion, are super whiny and have extreme OCD; trolls can't get tatts because their thick skin will not absorb the ink, werewolves are perfect for getting tattoos because they have great skin, though they need to constantly shave, and being in packs causes them to be repeat customers. I took two whole pages of notes of all the things I loved about Angel's Ink. The nerd in me was so stoked by all the great tidbits that took a good story and made it fantastic.

Angel's Ink delivered a Home Run in what I'm sure will be an fun, thrilling, sexy series. If you need a heavy dose of Magic in your reading life, be sure to give Angel's Ink a go.


Favorite Quotes:

"My lips brushed against her temple as I spoke. Her scent wrapped around me, helping to ease the last of the tension still humming in my frame. I didn't know whether I was trying to reassure her, or was simply clinging to something good and wonderful for a few moments in an effort to blot out the horror of our reality." (eARC, 7%)


"The less people knew about me, the better. When there's a monster under your bed, sometimes it really is best not to look."  (eARC, 17%)


You can purchase Angel's Ink at:
Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Book Depository

WAITING ON WEDNESDAY

Waiting On" Wednesday is a weekly event, hosted by Jill at Breaking the Spine, that spotlights upcoming releases that we're eagerly anticipating.

This week's WoW selection is...

Former con artist Ciara Griffin hopes to settle into a normal un-life as a fledgling vampire, with the help of her fiancé, grunge DJ/guitarist Shane McAllister. But when the WVMP station crew reports that hippie vampire DJ Jim has murdered a pair of humans—humans who happen to share Ciara’s last name—that’s when trouble rolls out the red carpet. To redeem her past and pay back her most wounded victim, Ciara plans one final triple-crossing con game—with her own “miracle blood” as the bait. And as Ciara clings to what’s left of her humanity, she’ll need her new vampire strength—and old con artist cunning—now more than ever.

Why I'm Waiting ~ Shane McAllister. Oh my peas, how I love that vamp. I can't...I just can't even begin to list all the many reasons I love him so. Oh yeah, Ciara too! The WVMP Radio Series is one of my very favorite series and I can't wait to find out how author Jeri Smith-Ready wraps up the story.

Expected publication: November 27th 2012 by Pocket

You can preorder Lust for Life at:
Amazon  |  Barnes & Noble  |  Book Depository (only $5.99!!)