Reckless by Kelly Martin (5 stars)

About Reckless

JESSUP HART BLACKWELL SAVED THE WORLD. 
Not that anyone will ever know. 
Not that they’ll remember. 
But I know. 
I remember. 
That’s my curse. 
I don’t agree with how he did it. 
I wish it had been me that died. Lord knows we would’ve all 
been safer if I’d been the one instead of Hart. 
But he couldn’t let that happen. 
He couldn’t live with it. 
How am I supposed to live with it? 
The pain. 
The remorse. 
The pressing feeling that something inside me that I can’t 
control is still there… dormant but not dead. Ready to pounce. 
Ready to kill again. 
Hart saved the world, that’s true. 
But he couldn’t save me 

Buy on Amazon
Add it to Goodreads

Review

Fate has drawn Hart and Gracen together through the most bizarre and upsetting circumstances--he's a demon, and she's the Abomination. Can they find a way to save the world and have something left for themselves?

I'm so sad to see this series end. Not only will I miss the amazing characters, I'll miss the unique and compelling storyline. No matter how dire the situation seems for Gracen and Hart, there's always a twist I never see coming. 

But what I've loved the most through each book is the detailed inner struggle of both Hart and Gracen, and Reckless continues this intense introspection. And I couldn't wait to see how Kelly Martin would bring this epic tale to a conclusion. I'm excited to say it doesn't disappoint, even though I never could have guessed it.

I highly recommend this series!!
Rating: 5 stars

I love this series. Check out my reviews of books 1 and 2: Heartless (#1), Soulless (#2), and Breathless (#3).

About the Author

Kelly Martin is the bestselling author of contemporary, historical, and YA romance. She has been married for over ten years and has three rowdy, angelic daughters. When Kelly isn't writing, she loves watching horror gamers on YouTube, even though she is a huge wimp, and drinking white chocolate mochas.

You can find her at...
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/KellyMartinA...
Twitter: https://twitter.com/martieKay
Pinterest: http://www.pinterest.com/KMbooks/
Tumblr: http://martiekay.tumblr.com/

Note: I was the Editor on this book through Indie Books Gone Wild. A positive review was not requested or guaranteed; the opinions expressed are my own.

Marrow by Elizabeth Lesser (5 stars)

About Marrow

Hardcover: 320 pages
Publisher: Harper Wave (September 20, 2016)

The author of the New York Times bestseller Broken Open returns with a visceral and profound memoir of two sisters who, in the face of a bone marrow transplant—one the donor and one the recipient—begin a quest for acceptance, authenticity, and most of all, love.

 A mesmerizing and courageous memoir: the story of two sisters uncovering the depth of their love through the life-and-death experience of a bone marrow transplant. Throughout her life, Elizabeth Lesser has sought understanding about what it means to be true to oneself and, at the same time, truly connected to the ones we love. But when her sister Maggie needs a bone marrow transplant to save her life, and Lesser learns that she is the perfect match, she faces a far more immediate and complex question about what it really means to love—honestly, generously, and authentically.

Hoping to give Maggie the best chance possible for a successful transplant, the sisters dig deep into the marrow of their relationship to clear a path to unconditional acceptance. They leave the bone marrow transplant up to the doctors, but take on what Lesser calls a “soul marrow transplant,” examining their family history, having difficult conversations, examining old assumptions, and offering forgiveness until all that is left is love for each other’s true selves. Their process—before, during, and after the transplant—encourages them to take risks of authenticity in other aspects their lives.

But life does not follow the storylines we plan for it. Maggie’s body is ultimately too weak to fight the relentless illness. As she and Lesser prepare for the inevitable, they grow ever closer as their shared blood cells become a symbol of the enduring bond they share. Told with suspense and humor, Marrow is joyous and heartbreaking, incandescent and profound. The story reveals how even our most difficult experiences can offer unexpected spiritual growth. Reflecting on the multifaceted nature of love—love of other, love of self, love of the world—Marrow is an unflinching and beautiful memoir about getting to the very center of ourselves.

Purchase Links 

HarperCollins | Amazon | Barnes & Noble

Review

It has been a while since I read a non-fiction story that so captured my heart. From page one, I became emotionally attached to this story of two sisters and cancer's effect on their relationship. And I read the whole thing in one day, knowing I'd need to re-read it again and again to truly absorb its magnificence.

This book is about so much more than cancer and loss. It's about who we are in the deepest part of ourselves. I highlighted so many sections, but a few lines really stood out to me:  "... someone forgot to tell us that our own journey never ends... There is always more to uncover, more to know, more to heal, more to love, more to give. Being true to yourself is a rough-and-tumble ride."

None of us should wait for death to force us to learn more about life, and this book is testament to that. I could run through a litany of adjectives to compel you to read this, but it'll mean something different to everyone. But I truly believe it will touch you in some way. 

Rating: 5 stars

About Elizabeth Lesser

ELIZABETH LESSER is the author of The Seeker’s Guide and the New York Times bestseller Broken Open. She is the cofounder of Omega Institute, recognized internationally for its workshops and conferences that focus on holistic health, psychology, spirituality, creativity, and social change. Prior to her work at Omega, she was a midwife and childbirth educator. She lives in the Hudson Valley with her family.

Find out more about Elizabeth at her website, and connect with her on Facebook.

Thanks to TLC for my review copy.

Note: I received a complimentary copy for review purposes. A positive review was not requested or guaranteed; the opinions expressed are my own. 

Please visit other stops on the Marrow blog tour page.

Being Me by Tricia Copeland (5 stars)

Title: Being Me

Series: Being Me Volume 4 

Author: Tricia Copeland

Genre: Clean New Adult

Release Date: September 20, 2016

“The loneliest moment in someone’s life is when they are watching their whole world fall apart, and all they can do is stare blankly.”-The Great Gatsby

In attempt to manage her rage and shame after a violent assault, Amanda loses touch with reality. Her spiraling physical state forces her to act or die. To face her demons, she must revisit the emotions she ran from in the first place. Still unsure of what life she wants, but determined to pick up the pieces, she seeks out the right path. Can she mend broken bonds with her friends and family? 

Will her epic love survive? 

Find out in this roller coaster finale of the Being Me series.

REVIEW

Amanda is forced to face her demons after months of walking the edge of keeping it together. To do so, she has to accept some things she can't change and walk away from relationships she holds dear. When someone breaks, you really see the depth of their character. This is especially true for Amanda. And I love a strong female spirit, one that doesn't take the easy way out. And there's nothing easy about Amanda's breaking point and resulting backlash.

All the supporting characters--Doug, Zack, friends, parents, sisters--play a part in Amanda rebuilding her life, and not all of them in the way I thought they would. And as much as a reader might love a main character, it's all the supporting ones that make the whole experience truly memorable. But, in the end, it's about Amanda trusting her own instincts and standing strong without a crutch. 

And let's face it... the final book in the series is what you walk away with, the lasting impression. And Tricia Copeland makes everything worthwhile. Although Amanda's journey has been rocky, it's worth every moment in this satisfying conclusion.

If you are a reader who wants a whole series out before you start, take the time now to invest in Being Me. You'll appreciate the journey.

RATING: 5 Stars

Reviews for the rest of the series:

Think You Know Me (Book 3)

If I Could Fly (Book 2)

Is This Me? (Book 1)

Tricia Copeland grew up in Georgia and now lives in Colorado with her family and multiple four legged and finned friends. Her new adult Being Me series includes, Is This Me?, If I Could Fly, Thinking You Know Me, and the final installment, Being Me. Drops of Sunshine, released in July 2016, is her first young adult and paranormal book. If she’s not on a trail, you can find Tricia at www.triciacopeland.com or on your favorite social media.

 

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Note: I worked as Editor on this novel through Indie Books Gone Wild. A positive review was not requested or guaranteed; the opinions expressed are my own.

Breathless by Kelly Martin (5 stars)

About Breathless
(Heartless #3)

There's good. 

There's evil. 

Then there's her. 

When Gracen Sullivan stabbed Hart Blackwell, she thought it was over. She thought the world was safe--safe from her. Stuck in the Abyss, watching as the evil inside her body takes over, she has to find some way to stop it. 

Hart Blackwell expected to wake up in Hell. Instead, he woke up in his grave. With the world falling apart, he has to put the bad history with his brother in the past or there will be no future. 

Armageddon has been set in motion. Enemies will have to work together or everything will end in fire and brimstone. 

The Abomination is here. And she must be stopped no matter the consequences.

Add to Goodreads
Buy on Amazon

Review

Unique and captivating only begins to describe the Heartless series. Gracen and Hart are two characters whose destinies are intertwined. Their decisions could have devastating ramifications for all of humanity.

That love got in the way only makes the story that much sweeter.

In Breathless, we learn more about Hart and his brother while also getting further perspective from Gracen, as she discovers details about herself and her role in what happens to the world. 

Nothing is ever quite what it seems, and twists and turns abound. Far be it from me to give anything away, because it's too entertaining to read the book and find out for yourself. For those emotionally raw from the last book, this will continue to tear at your heart... especially since we get an even more intimate view of Gracen and Hart than ever before.

I highly recommend this series, like shout-it-from-the-rooftops recommend. If you love intriguing plot twists and awesome characters, look no further.

Rating: 5 stars

I adore this series. Check out my reviews of books 1 and 2: Heartless (#1) and Soulless (#2).

About the Author

Kelly Martin is the bestselling author of contemporary, historical, and YA romance. She has been married for over ten years and has three rowdy, angelic daughters. When Kelly isn't writing, she loves watching horror gamers on YouTube, even though she is a huge wimp, and drinking white chocolate mochas.

You can find her at...
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/KellyMartinA...
Twitter: https://twitter.com/martieKay
Pinterest: http://www.pinterest.com/KMbooks/
Tumblr: http://martiekay.tumblr.com/

Note: I was the Editor on this book through Indie Books Gone Wild. A positive review was not requested or guaranteed; the opinions expressed are my own.

Earthborn by PM Hernandez (5 stars)

About Earthborn

ADELAIDE BECKER—social outcast and sarcastic know-it-all—enjoys her quiet life until a giant alien crash-lands into it. He claims she’s half alien like him—an Earthborn—and he’s there to save her from the coming invasion. Being half little green man isn’t enough to convince Addy to go along with her supposed savior, but when her mother’s safety is threatened, she takes off on a journey that leads her to discover the other, more exotic side of her family and the power she holds deep within. 

BROCK GRIGNI thinks this will be like any other Earthborn collection. His job is simple—bring his fellow Earthborn back to the compound and save them from the threat of becoming breeding slaves at the hands of aliens from their home planet, Ayezh. He isn’t prepared for Addy—beautiful, smart-mouthed, and his complete opposite in every way. When he learns that everything he trusts is a lie, he has nothing left to hold onto except Addy. 

Together, Addy and Brock must struggle with the challenges and choices before them. Stay and fight, or run and hide? They know the Ayezhni—their ancestors and aliens from a planet in distress—are on their way and will make a collection of their own. Addy feels compelled to help her fellow Earthborn, but can she do that and keep her loved ones safe at the same time?

Add to Goodreads
Buy on Amazon

Review

Addy goes from a quiet, loner life to hanging out with aliens. Not just hanging out... being targeted. Others are there to protect her, but telling the difference could prove difficult. In a rush of revelations and realizations, she's on the run, trusting her life--and her mother's--to people she's known for a few days. People who aren't human.

I've said it time and time again, but memorable reads are all about good, relatable characters, and this book is brimming with them. Addy is both vulnerable and strong while being tenacious and thoughtful. Brock... can you see me fanning myself? He's a hottie with a heart. A perfect combination. 

Together they need to find answers and take into account that their journey involves more than just them... it has long-reaching effects for their families and all of mankind.

And for sci-fi lovers... this is just the beginning of what I predict to be fascinating sci-fi coolness. I can't wait for more in the series. A great read.

Rating: 5 stars

About the Author

Paulette (PM) Hernandez is a young adult paranormal, sci-fi, and fantasy author. She is a self-proclaimed nerd. She wears a lot of black, not because she’s cool but because she’s fashion-challenged. She has been known to fangirl all over the freaking place.

Connect with Paulette
Website
Facebook
Twitter

Note: I was the Editor on this book through Indie Books Gone Wild. A positive review was not requested or guaranteed; the opinions expressed are my own.

Because I Love You by Tori Rigby (5 stars)

About Because I Love You

Published by: Blaze Publishing
Publication date: May 17th 2016
Genres: Contemporary, Romance, Young Adult

Eight weeks after sixteen-year-old Andie Hamilton gives her virginity to her best friend, “the stick” says she’s pregnant.
Her friends treat her like she’s carrying the plague, her classmates torture and ridicule her, and the boy she thought loved her doesn’t even care. Afraid to experience the next seven months alone, she turns to her ex-boyfriend, Neil Donaghue, a dark-haired, blue-eyed player. With him, she finds comfort and the support she desperately needs to make the hardest decision of her life: whether or not to keep the baby.

Then a tragic accident leads Andie to discover Neil’s keeping a secret that could dramatically alter their lives, and she’s forced to make a choice. But after hearing her son’s heartbeat for the first time, she doesn’t know how she’ll ever be able to let go.

Goodreads / Amazon / Barnes & Noble / Blaze Publishing

Review

Andi Hamilton is facing a teenage pregnancy, complicated by the father wanting nothing to do with her, much less a baby. Out of fear and need, she finds comfort in the arms of her ex-boyfriend, Neil. 

Will she decide to keep the baby? Will she and Neil beat the odds?

As the mom to three girls, this story really hit home with me. Andi's a well-meaning and pretty straight-laced young woman, but it only takes one mistake to forever change her life. This leaves Andi with a huge decision--what to do about her pregnancy. Her journey to a decision is beautiful, captivating, heart-breaking, and life-affirming. What it isn't is easy.

During such a gut-wrenching time, she begins to fall in love, and not with the Baby Daddy. Nothing about her decision-making process is easy, and she doesn't take a moment of it lightly. And I loved that her mother was part of the journey. Too often we see overly-preachy parents in these situations. 

I adored Because I Love You. It’s an intense emotional journey, and I was sad to say goodbye to these characters. A truly great read.

Rating: 5 stars

About Tori Rigby

Adopted at three-days-old by a construction worker and a stay at home mom, Tori Rigby grew up with her nose in a book and her fingers on piano keys, always awaiting the day she’d take her own adventure. 

Now, she goes on multiple journeys through her contemporary and historical romances. She longs to live in the Scottish Highlands, and her favorite place in history is Medieval England—she’d even give up her Internet and running water to go back in time! Tori also writes high-concept genre fiction as Vicki Leigh, and when she isn’t writing, she’s kicking butt in krav maga or attending classes to learn how to catch bad guys. 

Website / Goodreads / Facebook / Twitter / Instagram

Note: I served as the Proofreader on this book through Indie Books Gone Wild. A positive review was not requested or guaranteed; the opinions expressed are my own.