Sunday, June 30, 2019

Sunday Post & Stacking the Shelves - 06/30/19

The Sunday Post is a weekly meme hosted by Kimba @ The Caffeinated Book Reviewer ~this meme was inspired in part by ~ In My Mailbox~ It's a chance to share News. A post to recap the past week, showcase books and things we have received and share news about what is coming up for the week on our blog.

It's back to normal this week. I expected the kids to have a bad case of Grandparent-itis, but they actually fell back into our normal routine very quickly and easily. I had a ton of laundry to catch up on early in the week. We did get in a couple of walks around the neighborhood. We played outside. The kids got in the pool with Daddy one afternoon. Little Boy is a natural swimmer. And we even got a little pool to keep cool this summer. Friday I took the kids to the park. Also, I finally finished Tower of Dawn (Throne of Glass, # 6) by Sarah J Maas this week. I'd put off starting it because it wasn't about Aelin and crew even though it was necessary to the series. And I cannot believe that we're entering July tomorrow.

THE PAST WEEK:

Monday: Review of A Proper Scandal by Esther Hatch (4 Stars)
Tuesday: 2019 Series Enders Reading Challenge - June Wrap Up
Wednesday: Can't Wait for Beasts of the Frozen Sun (Frozen Sun Saga, # 1) by Jill Criswell
Thursday: Review of Alex, Approximately by Jenn Bennett (4.5 Stars)

UPCOMING THIS WEEK:

Monday: June 2019 EOM Wrap Up
Tuesday: Top Ten Tuesday?
Wednesday: Can't Wait for Wednesday
Thursday: Happy 4th of July (US)
Friday: Review of Seventh Grave and No Body (Charley Davidson, # 7) by Darynda Jones

Don’t forget to link up for the 2019 Series Enders Reading Challenge! You have until December 15th, 2019 to sing up. Each month there will be a giveaway for those participating with an end of the year giveaway too! Click on the picture below or the link above to find out more!

Stacking the Shelves is hosted by Tynga's Reviews.

Beasts of the Frozen Sun (Frozen Sun Saga, # 1)

By: Jill Criswell

Expected Publication: August 6th 2019 by Blackstone

368 pages

Genre: Young Adult, Fantasy

Source: Publisher via NetGalley (Thank you!!)

( Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository )

*Note: The above links to Amazon and Book Depository are affiliate links. Affiliate links support giveaways for Somewhere Only We Know readers.

Goodreads description--Burn brightly. Love fiercely. For all else is dust.

Every child of Glasnith learns the last words of Aillira, the god-gifted mortal whose doomed love affair sparked a war of gods and men, and Lira of clan Stone knows the story better than most. As a descendant of Aillira and god-gifted in her own right, she has the power to read people's souls, to see someone's true essence with only a touch of her hand.

When a golden-haired warrior washes up on the shores of her homeland--one of the fearful marauders from the land of the Frozen Sun--Lira helps the wounded man instead of turning him in. After reading his soul, she realizes Reyker is different than his brethren who attack the coasts of Glasnith. He confides in her that he's been cursed with what his people call battle-madness, forced to fight for the warlord known as the Dragon, a powerful tyrant determined to reignite the ancient war that Aillira started.

As Lira and Reyker form a bond forbidden by both their clans, the wrath of the Dragon falls upon them and all of Glasnith, and Lira finds herself facing the same tragic fate as her ancestor. The battle for Lira's life, for Reyker's soul, and for their peoples' freedom has only just begun.

That's it for my shelves and recaps of my past and upcoming week. What did you add to your shelves this week? Any bookish news you want to talk about? Let me know!

Thursday, June 27, 2019

Alex, Approximately - Review

Alex, Approximately

By: Jenn Bennett

Publication: April 4th 2017 by Simon Pulse

400 pages

Genre: Young Adult, Contemporary

Source: Personal Kindle Library

( Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository )

*Note: The above links to Amazon and Book Depository are affiliate links. Affiliate links support giveaways for Somewhere Only We Know readers.

Goodreads description--In this delightfully charming teen spin on You’ve Got Mail, the one guy Bailey Rydell can’t stand is actually the boy of her dreams—she just doesn’t know it yet.

Classic movie buff Bailey “Mink” Rydell has spent months crushing on a witty film geek she only knows online by “Alex.” Two coasts separate the teens until Bailey moves in with her dad, who lives in the same California surfing town as her online crush.

Faced with doubts (what if he’s a creep in real life—or worse?), Bailey doesn’t tell Alex she’s moved to his hometown. Or that she’s landed a job at the local tourist-trap museum. Or that she’s being heckled daily by the irritatingly hot museum security guard, Porter Roth—a.k.a. her new arch-nemesis. But life is whole lot messier than the movies, especially when Bailey discovers that tricky fine line between hate, love, and whatever-it-is she’s starting to feel for Porter.

And as the summer months go by, Bailey must choose whether to cling to a dreamy online fantasy in Alex or take a risk on an imperfect reality with Porter. The choice is both simpler and more complicated than she realizes, because Porter Roth is hiding a secret of his own: Porter is Alex…Approximately.

Well the description just gives the whole mystery of the book away, doesn't it? I hadn't re-read the description for quite a while so I didn't remember it spelling things out so specifically. If you haven't read the description, maybe try not to read that last sentence. I mean there wasn't much doubt in my mind, but still, the mystery is one of the driving forces of the story. So try not to completely ruin the story by reading the description if you can avoid it.

The scenery of Alex, Approximately was adorable. I want to visit this small town in California. I haven't been to the West Coast so I've not seen the Pacific Ocean--although I have no issues with the beaches of Panama City Beach or Gulf Shores. The museum, while cheesy, definitely sounds like something that should be seen and visited as well as the boardwalk and local surfing. The whole place sounded charming.

I wasn't really sure that I was going to like Bailey. I could understand her issues with telling Alex that she was moving in with her Dad in the same town that Alex lives in, but I struggle a little with people in real life who won't just confront things head-on. I won't say that I enjoy conflict, but I personally believe that sweeping a problem under the rug only creates more problems whereas confronting things head on usually causes less confusion and miscommunication. But she has more to her and she makes significant progress in all areas throughout the course of the book.

Porter was perfectly imperfect. I liked how he and Bailey began their relationship with more hostility than anything else. But some of the fights he picked with Bailey, I was certainly on her side. But he becomes more and more likable as time passes and as his layers get pulled back one after one. I ended up being quite a fan of Porter. I do wish he wasn't described as much as he was. At least the long curly, hair part, but maybe that's just because I don't find long hair on men attractive. A little bit more left to my imagination as far as his appearance is concerned would have been great.

The side characters were almost all just as loveable: Grace, Pangborn, Bailey's Dad, Wanda, Mr. Roth, Mrs. Roth, Lana. I liked them all and the warmth and complexity they brought to this story.

I did find myself questioning several pieces of the puzzle. Like how the town wasn't large but it wasn't tiny, yet for Bailey to never question that she might actually run into Alex...especially while she's attempting to flesh out his workplace. Some of the clues felt so very obvious to me. Yet almost everything I questioned I could also find some way to explain away.

Favorite quotes:

-That’s the thing about being an evader. You have to be flexible and know when to bail before it all gets weird. Better for everyone, really. I’m a giver.

-"...Sometimes you have to endure painful things to realize that you’re a whole lot stronger than you think.”

I did briefly get annoyed with Bailey's reaction to Porter's fight with Davy. I mean she does get over it, but this just felt like our current day's culture's attempt at a utopian society where there's never any violence. Do I wish for violence? Of course not. I think it's better to avoid it, but I'm not going to be freaked out if my boyfriend gets into a fight. Just a Mountains Into Molehills situation for me.

In the end the biggest compliment I can give Alex, Approximately is that I could not stop thinking about this book for days after I finished it. It had the potential to give me a book hangover had I not jumped into just the right book for follow-up after I finished it. Alex, Approximately gets 4.5 Stars. Have you read Alex, Approximately? What did you think? Let me know!

Wednesday, June 26, 2019

Can't Wait for Beasts of the Frozen Sun

Can't-Wait Wednesday is a weekly meme hosted by Wishful Endings to spotlight and talk about the books we're excited about that we have yet to read. Generally they're books that have yet to be released as well. It's based on Waiting on Wednesday, hosted by the fabulous Jill at Breaking the Spine. Find out more here.

Beasts of the Frozen Sun (Frozen Sun Saga, # 1)

By: Jill Criswell

Expected Publication: August 6th 2019 by Blackstone

368 pages

Genre: Young Adult, Fantasy

( Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository )

*Note: The above links to Amazon and Book Depository are affiliate links. Affiliate links support giveaways for Somewhere Only We Know readers.

Goodreads description--Burn brightly. Love fiercely. For all else is dust.

Every child of Glasnith learns the last words of Aillira, the god-gifted mortal whose doomed love affair sparked a war of gods and men, and Lira of clan Stone knows the story better than most. As a descendant of Aillira and god-gifted in her own right, she has the power to read people's souls, to see someone's true essence with only a touch of her hand.

When a golden-haired warrior washes up on the shores of her homeland--one of the fearful marauders from the land of the Frozen Sun--Lira helps the wounded man instead of turning him in. After reading his soul, she realizes Reyker is different than his brethren who attack the coasts of Glasnith. He confides in her that he's been cursed with what his people call battle-madness, forced to fight for the warlord known as the Dragon, a powerful tyrant determined to reignite the ancient war that Aillira started.

As Lira and Reyker form a bond forbidden by both their clans, the wrath of the Dragon falls upon them and all of Glasnith, and Lira finds herself facing the same tragic fate as her ancestor. The battle for Lira's life, for Reyker's soul, and for their peoples' freedom has only just begun.

What are you guys waiting on this week? Let me know!

Tuesday, June 25, 2019

2019 Series Enders Reading Challenge - June Wrap Up

Time for our Monthly Wrap Up for the 2019 Series Enders Reading Challenge hosted by Sandy @ Somewhere Only We Know and Holly @ Words Fueled by Love!

Since our last monthly wrap up, neither Sandy nor Holly have finished any series enders.

Which series enders did you finish? Link the up below. Don't forget to include the title, your name, & your blog name (Ex: Requiem - Sandy @ Somewhere Only We Know) Also, the June giveaway runs from June 25th - July 25th. On July 25th we will use random.org and the linky entries to pull a winner.

You are invited to the Inlinkz link party!

Click here to enter

Susan wins by default this month.

Monday, June 24, 2019

A Proper Scandal - Review

A Proper Scandal

By: Esther Hatch

Publication: May 1st 2019 by Covenant Communications

222 pages

Genre: Historical Fiction, Regency

Source: Publisher via NetGalley (Thank you!!_

( Goodreads | Amazon )

*Note: The above links to Amazon and Book Depository are affiliate links. Affiliate links support giveaways for Somewhere Only We Know readers.

Goodreads description--Grace Sinclair has been callously cast out of her home. And though taken in as an orphaned child by the vicar and his wife, her unsurpassed beauty makes it impossible for her to remain in the vicar’s household—with two daughters of their own about to enter Society, the vicar and his wife see Grace as nothing but competition. Thankfully, Grace’s estranged Aunt Bell has agreed to take her in to her home in London. But Grace soon learns her situation has just gotten much worse.

It takes only a moment’s acquaintance for Grace to ascertain that her aunt has married a detestable rake. And Aunt Bell, recognizing the danger of having her lovely niece too near her husband, gives Grace an ultimatum: the young woman has two weeks to find a man to marry, after which she will be turned out. With no experience in the art of attracting a husband, Grace quickly realizes that a worthy suitor might not be so easy to ensnare.

A Proper Scandal is my second Esther Hatch book. I have been pleasantly surprised by both of these books even though neither has been perfect. I'm excited to see more from her in the future.

Usually I start my reviews by discussing the female lead, but this time I'm going to start with Nate. Nate is about as trustworthy as they come. Despite an immediate attraction to Grace, he does all he can to keep interactions between them above board. Even though Grace basically tells him that she plans to trap him into marrying her, he can't seem to stay away from her completely.

Grace was so easy to get attached to. I felt sympathetic towards her situation almost immediately. Her parents are both dead and she's basically being kicked out of the home that has sheltered her for the last several years because she's too pretty. She's very naive and innocent considering she grew up at the vicarage. She longs for a stable home and a family who will love her. Unfortunately, she doesn't get that from her aunt's house either. Her aunt's second husband is barely keeping his hands off Grace. She's not safe in this house. Her uncle only keeps his hands off her because he needs her to ensnare a man whose father her uncle owes quite a bit of money to.

I get a little frustrated with this time period because so much could be fixed between the characters often with just a frank conversation. Yet this is one of the driving conflicts of books from this time period. Grace and Nathan actually do breech etiquette on several occasions with some rather frank discussions. Only they just don't get around to all of the conversations necessary. On the other hand, I love this time period because it's pretty much love stories without the modern day sexual content (although certainly, those books exist as well).

That being said, I feel like the story could have benefitted by Uncle Bell making it a bit more clear that if Grace failed in her task to ensnare a husband that can clear his debts with the man's father then he would attempt to act on his own personal attraction to Grace. I mean I knew he was slimy and all, but I often got confused with why Grace couldn't have found a workaround of some kind. Knowing there was an almost constant threat to her other than innuendo would have done more to help me feel her desperation as much as she did. I understood her Uncle's motivation, but her's felt sometimes unclear. I feel like I'm not explaining this well, but I'm trying to avoid specifics.

A Proper Scandal wasn't a perfect read for me, but it was really close. I didn't want to put it down. I read like 80% in one day which is awesome for me. I can't wait to read more from Esther Hatch as I have a feeling that her writing will just get better and better. A Proper Scandal gets 4 Stars. Have you read A Proper Scandal? What did you think? Let me know!

Sunday, June 23, 2019

Sunday Post & Stacking the Shelves - 06/23/19

The Sunday Post is a weekly meme hosted by Kimba @ The Caffeinated Book Reviewer ~this meme was inspired in part by ~ In My Mailbox~ It's a chance to share News. A post to recap the past week, showcase books and things we have received and share news about what is coming up for the week on our blog.

Monday and Tuesday were mostly normal days. We had the AC people come back to check up on our new unit (which is working great). The kids and I played outside, and we all went swimming when Daddy got home from work. Tuesday the kids went to my mom's house for the rest of the week. We get them back today. Husband had a work conference that he and I went to. We left Wednesday morning for Palm Beach, Florida and came home Saturday. He was in meetings and conferences during the morning and we had the afternoons to ourselves. We did have a couple of dinners to attend also, but I was able to focus on relaxing and reading by the pool and on the beach for the most part. We also celebrated my birthday while we were there on Friday. It was a lovely trip, but I sure have missed my kiddos.

THE PAST WEEK:

Monday: Review of Sixth Grave on the Edge (Charley Davidson, # 6) by Darynda Jones (4.5 Stars)
Tuesday: Top Seven Most Anticipated Releases of Q3/Q4 2019
Wednesday: Can't Wait for The Work of Art by Mimi Matthews

UPCOMING THIS WEEK:

Monday: Review of A Proper Scandal by Esther Hatch
Tuesday: Top Ten Tuesday?
Wednesday: Can't Wait for Wednesday
Thursday: Review of Alex, Approximately by Jenn Bennett

Don’t forget to link up for the 2019 Series Enders Reading Challenge! You have until December 15th, 2019 to sing up. Each month there will be a giveaway for those participating with an end of the year giveaway too! Click on the picture below or the link above to find out more!

Stacking the Shelves is hosted by Tynga's Reviews.

The Heart of the Vicar (The Jonquil Brothers, # 6)

By: Sarah M Eden

Expected Publication: June 1st 2019 by Covenant Communications

268 pages

Genre: Adult, Historical Fiction, Regency

Source: Publisher via NetGalley (Thank you!!)

( Goodreads | Amazon )

*Note: The above links to Amazon and Book Depository are affiliate links. Affiliate links support giveaways for Somewhere Only We Know readers.

Goodreads description--Young love is all too fleeting, as Harold Jonquil painfully discovered years ago when Sarah Sarvol, the niece of a neighboring landowner, captured his heart. After an idyllic few weeks in the throes of blossoming love, reality intervened. They could have no future. Following their disastrous parting, Harold attempted to push aside thoughts of love and regret, but Sarah has never left his heart. Now, years later, he has achieved his lifelong aspiration of becoming the local vicar. However, the role proves more difficult than he imagined. He feels hollow and uninspired—until the most important person in his past returns, challenging him as no one ever has.

When Sarah’s ailing uncle summons her back to the family estate in England, there is only one person from her past she is reluctant to see again: Harold Jonquil, the only man who has ever claimed her heart. But when she comes face-to-face with her former beau, she hardly recognizes the aloof and dull man before her. She is determined to help Harold rediscover the passion he once felt toward his chosen profession. Soon, despite their exasperation with each other, they cannot deny the stirring of feelings long buried—but is it too late for second chances?

That's it for my shelves and recaps of my past and upcoming week. What did you add to your shelves this week? Any bookish news you want to talk about? Let me know!

Wednesday, June 19, 2019

Can't Wait for The Work of Art

Can't-Wait Wednesday is a weekly meme hosted by Wishful Endings to spotlight and talk about the books we're excited about that we have yet to read. Generally they're books that have yet to be released as well. It's based on Waiting on Wednesday, hosted by the fabulous Jill at Breaking the Spine. Find out more here.

The Work of Art

By: Mimi Matthews

Expected Publication: July 23rd 2019 by Perfectly Proper Press

356 pages

Genre: Adult, Historical Fiction

( Goodreads | Amazon )

*Note: The above links to Amazon and Book Depository are affiliate links. Affiliate links support giveaways for Somewhere Only We Know readers.

Goodreads description--An Uncommon Beauty...

Hidden away in rural Devonshire, Phyllida Satterthwaite has always been considered more odd than beautiful. But in London, her oddity has made her a sensation. Far worse, it's caught the eye of the sinister Duke of Moreland--a notorious art collector obsessed with acquiring one-of-a-kind treasures. To escape the duke's clutches, she's going to need a little help.

An Unlikely Hero...

Captain Arthur Heywood's days of heroism are long past. Grievously injured in the Peninsular War, he can no longer walk unaided, let alone shoot a pistol. What use can he possibly be to a damsel in distress? He has nothing left to offer except his good name.

Can a marriage of convenience save Philly from the vengeful duke? Or will life with Arthur put her--and her heart--in more danger than ever?

What are you guys waiting on this week? Let me know!

Tuesday, June 18, 2019

Top Seven Releases from Q3/Q4 2019

Top 10 Tuesday was created by The Broke and the Bookish, but is currently hosted by The Artsy Reader Girl. This week's topic is Top Ten Upcoming Releases Q3/Q4 2019.

  1. Dark Ages (Red Rising, # 5) by Pierce Brown
  2. Maybe This Time by Kasie West
  3. Vow of Thieves (Dance of Thieves, # 2) by Mary E Pearson
  4. Say You Still Love Me by KA Tucker
  5. The First Girl Child by Amy Harmon
  6. A Pursuit of Home (Haven Manor, # 3) by Kristi Ann Hunter
  7. The Work of Art by Mimi Matthews

Which upcoming releases are you looking most forward to for the end of the year 2019? Let me know!

Monday, June 17, 2019

Sixth Grave on the Edge - Review

Sixth Grave on the Edge (Charley Davidson, # 6)

By: Darynda Jones

Publication: May 20th 2014 by St. Martin's Press

326 pages

Genre: Fantasy, Paranormal, Urban Fantasy, Mystery

Source: Publisher via NetGalley (Thank you!!)

( Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository )

*Note: The above links to Amazon and Book Depository are affiliate links. Affiliate links support giveaways for Somewhere Only We Know readers.

Goodreads description--Few things in life can come between a grim reaper and her coffee, but the sexy, sultry son of Satan is one of them. Now that Reyes Farrow has asked for her hand, Charley Davidson feels it's time to learn more about his past, but Reyes is reluctant to open up. When the official FBI file of his childhood abduction lands in her lap, Charley decides to go behind her mysterious beau’s back and conduct her own investigation. Because what could go wrong?

Unfortunately, another case has fallen into her lap—one with dangerous implications. Some very insistent men want Charley to hunt down a witness who is scheduled to testify against their boss, a major player in the local crime syndicate. If Charley doesn't come up with an address in 48 hours, the people closest to her will start to disappear.

Add to that a desperate man in search of the soul he lost in a card game, a dogged mother determined to find the ghost of her son, and a beautiful, young Deaf boy haunted by his new ability to see the departed as clearly as he sees the living, and Charley has her hands full. The fact that Reyes has caught on to her latest venture only adds fuel to the inferno that he is. Good thing for Charley she's used to multi-tasking and always up for a challenge…especially when that challenge comes in the form of Reyes Farrow.

So we pick up Sixth Grave on the Edge with Charley and Reyes "nigh affianced". (Hehe I just wanted to say that and totally cracked up every time Charley called Reyes her "nigh fiance".) Really though, Reyes proposed and we're just waiting to see if Charley will accept.

Sixth Grave on the Edge is one of those books that makes it completely obvious that Darynda Jones planned this entire series before she ever started writing.

There hasn't been too much activity in the demon areas of the series. Although, we do meet a demon (or daeva) called the Dealer. Mostly the overall series story hasn't made too much progress. Well, there was one small bomb dropped at the very end of the book which I didn't see coming. And now that I think about another development too. But that's all.

I didn't feel like any one aspect of this individual book took over--it was about as well rounded of a book as possible. Charley's cases weren't too front and center, neither was the war, neither was her relationship with Reyes (there was just enough of this to make me happy). I do think a good bit of time was spent on Cookie and Uncle Bob, but I didn't really mind that. Other small side stories were woven in: Captain Erickson, Amber and Quienton, Miranda, etc. There's something up with Charley's Dad that was just hinted at. We'll see more of that in the coming book(s).

I did find a continuity error. FBI Agent Carson is called Agent Carter 3 times within one chapter. I don't know if this was in the published version or just the egalley that I received. Anyway, it threw me and had me thinking I was crazy for a bit until the correct name was used. Here's a screenshot of what I'm talking about.

All in all, Sixth Grave on the Edge might be my favorite of the series so far, and I'm giving it 4.5 Stars. Have you read Sixth Grave on the Edge? What did you think? Let me know!

Sunday, June 16, 2019

Sunday Post & Stacking the Shelves - 06/16/19

The Sunday Post is a weekly meme hosted by Kimba @ The Caffeinated Book Reviewer ~this meme was inspired in part by ~ In My Mailbox~ It's a chance to share News. A post to recap the past week, showcase books and things we have received and share news about what is coming up for the week on our blog.

Another super busy week. My Dad came over almost every day after work to help husband with the tractor and work on our yard. I worked on the pool and am amazed to say that it was in perfect condition on Saturday. Wednesday I took the kids to the park and we grabbed Happy Meals. Thursday I took the kids to visit Husband's work. I used to work there too and two of the women I worked with are leaving. One's last day was Friday and the other's last day will be Wednesday. I might never see either of them again and that makes me quite sad. So I knew I needed to take advantage and run by there before they were gone for good. Friday I took both kids to the grocery store with me. And then Saturday we had the entire family over to celebrate my brother's birthday, Father's Day, and my birthday. It was such a fun day of food, swimming, and hanging out with everyone. Then today, Husband's mom is cooking for my birthday and his sister and her family are here to celebrate. Busy week.

THE PAST WEEK:

Monday: Review of Fifth Grave Past the Light (Charley Davidson, # 5) by Darynda Jones (4 Stars)
Tuesday: Ten Unpopular Bookish Opinions
Wednesday: Can't Wait for The Lady Rogue by Jenn Bennett
Thursday: Review of Storm and Fury (Harbinger, # 1) by Jennifer L Armentrout (4 Stars)

UPCOMING THIS WEEK:

Monday: Review of Sixth Grave on the Edge (Charley Davidson, # 6) by Darynda Jones
Tuesday: Top Ten Tuesday?
Wednesday: Can't Wait for Wednesday

Don’t forget to link up for the 2019 Series Enders Reading Challenge! You have until December 15th, 2019 to sing up. Each month there will be a giveaway for those participating with an end of the year giveaway too! Click on the picture below or the link above to find out more!

Stacking the Shelves is hosted by Tynga's Reviews.

The Library of Lost Things

By: Laura Taylor Namey

Expected Publication: October 8th 2019 by Inkyard Press

384 pages

Genre: Young Adult, Contemporary

Source: Publisher via NetGalley (Thank you!!)

( Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository )

*Note: The above links to Amazon and Book Depository are affiliate links. Affiliate links support giveaways for Somewhere Only We Know readers.

Goodreads description--From the moment she first learned to read, literary genius Darcy Wells has spent most of her time living in the worlds of her books. There, she can avoid the crushing reality of her mother’s hoarding and pretend her life is simply ordinary. But when a new property manager becomes more active in the upkeep of their apartment complex, the only home Darcy has ever known outside of her books suddenly hangs in the balance.

While Darcy is struggling to survive beneath the weight of her mother’s compulsive shopping, Asher Fleet, a former teen pilot with an unexpectedly shattered future, walks into the bookstore where she works…and straight into her heart. For the first time in her life, Darcy can’t seem to find the right words. Fairy tales are one thing, but real love makes her want to hide inside her carefully constructed ink-and-paper bomb shelter.

Still, after spending her whole life keeping people out, something about Asher makes Darcy want to open up. But securing her own happily-ever-after will mean she’ll need to stop hiding and start living her own truth—even if it’s messy.

That's it for my shelves and recaps of my past and upcoming week. What did you add to your shelves this week? Any bookish news you want to talk about? Let me know!

Thursday, June 13, 2019

Storm and Fury - Review

Storm and Fury (The Harbinger, # 1)

By: Jennifer L Armentrout

Publication: June 11th 2019 by Inkyard Press

384 pages

Genre: Young Adult, Fantasy, Paranormal

Source:

( Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository )

*Note: The above links to Amazon and Book Depository are affiliate links. Affiliate links support giveaways for Somewhere Only We Know readers.

Goodreads description--From the #1 New York Times, USA TODAY and internationally bestselling author of the fantastical Dark Elements and the Lux series comes a new novel set in a world of gargoyle protectors, rising demons and one girl with an explosive secret.

Eighteen-year-old Trinity Marrow may be going blind, but she can see and communicate with ghosts and spirits. Her unique gift is part of a secret so dangerous that she’s been in hiding for years in an isolated compound fiercely guarded by Wardens—gargoyle shape-shifters who protect humankind from demons. If the demons discover the truth about Trinity, they’ll devour her, flesh and bone, to enhance their own powers.

When Wardens from another clan arrive with disturbing reports that something out there is killing both demons and Wardens, Trinity’s safe world implodes. Not the least because one of the outsiders is the most annoying and fascinating person she’s ever met. Zayne has secrets of his own that will upend her world yet again—but working together becomes imperative once demons breach the compound and Trinity’s secret comes to light. To save her family and maybe the world, she’ll have to put her trust in Zayne. But all bets are off as a supernatural war is unleashed…

I've got to be honest guys, I almost DNF'd this one way early on. I'm so beyond certain things (political statements mostly) being included in books I'm trying to read for pleasure. But I pressed on and I'm glad that I did for the overall story's sake. It was close though. Really close.

Speaking of story, Jennifer L Armentrout isn't quite an auto-read author for me. I've read several of her books over the years and have enjoyed most of them. Yet a few have had some pretty big issues for me. While I won't say that Storm and Fury is perfect, her writing was really quite good in my opinion. I never had all of the pieces figured out. I wanted to keep reading to the point of being annoyed if I had to do real life things. I was rooting for the romance yet she put me off just enough to keep me salivating for more yet not without hope or to the point of frustration. And I was frankly disappointed that more books haven't been released (this one wasn't even officially released at the time of reading and writing this review) so that I could binge them. I need more immediately. At the very least, someone needs to get a listing for book 2 out on Goodreads so that I can start stalking it properly.

Trinity has a lot going on. She's living in a Warden compound, but she's not a Warden. She's not human either. (I was slightly annoyed with how long it took to reveal what Trinity is and I was a little disappointed by the time I got there because I'd already figured it out.) She doesn't quite belong. Her mother was killed a year ago, and her father is involved in a way yet not present. She has friends but she can't help but wonder if they would be her friends under any other circumstances. Her biggest issue is that she doesn't feel wanted. People could care less if she were there and some even hate that she is there. She has to train twice as hard as anyone else because she doesn't know when she'll be called to fight even though she's mostly protected and because, as the description states, she's going blind. So yeah...lots going on here. She's also impulsive and selfish. But those traits are somehow endearing on her.

Oh I want to discuss the side characters: Misha, Jada, Layla, Roth, and especially Zayne, but much of that feels like it ventures into spoiler territory. I will say there was one scene in particular between Zayne and Trinity that was so reminiscent of my high school days. Whew! So thankful those days are behind me.

A couple of pop culture references were included that I could have done without. I like these only in a specific way--hints and not spelled out in a way that will date the book. Just a small annoyance. Another small annoyance was toward the end. There was a continuity issue that is a bit spoiler-ish. Highlight if you want to read it. When Trinity and Roth go visit Faye she tells them that she agreed to provide the senator with the spell to control/influence humans on a larger scale because he promised them a Nephilim. He said he would have the Nephilim because he already had her Protector. This is backward in timing because he didn't have Misha in his custody when he made the agreement with Faye's coven. One could argue that he was claiming to have Misha's cooperation even if he didn't have him physically captured at that time, but Misha later tells Trinity the plan had been to capture them both at the same time.

Favorite quote:

-"I'm guessing the sky is full of stars?" "It is, but the only ones that matter are the ones you see."

Jennifer L Armentrout's personal experience with the same eye disease that Trinity has makes the story even deeper and meaningful. I know there are many others who appreciate stories including visual impairment, especially if it's similar to their own experiences, doubly so when Trinity is still totally awesome.

Storm and Fury wasn't perfect for me, but it came really close. I almost DNF'd it due to some political statements, but I'm glad I kept reading. Trinity is a character I won't soon forget, and I look forward to reading more about her--and Zayne... Can't forget him. I'm interested to see how things play out and whether this will end up being an epic series or not. Storm and Fury gets 4 Stars. Have you read Storm and Fury? What did you think? Let me know!

Wednesday, June 12, 2019

Can't Wait for The Lady Rogue

Can't-Wait Wednesday is a weekly meme hosted by Wishful Endings to spotlight and talk about the books we're excited about that we have yet to read. Generally they're books that have yet to be released as well. It's based on Waiting on Wednesday, hosted by the fabulous Jill at Breaking the Spine. Find out more here.

The Lady Rogue

By: Jenn Bennett

Expected Publication: September 3rd 2019 by Simon Pulse

384 pages

Genre: Young Adult, Historical Fiction, Fantasy

( Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository )

*Note: The above links to Amazon and Book Depository are affiliate links. Affiliate links support giveaways for Somewhere Only We Know readers.

Goodreads description--The Last Magician meets A Gentleman’s Guide to Vice and Virtue in this thrilling tale filled with magic and set in the mysterious Carpathian Mountains where a girl must hunt down Vlad the Impaler’s cursed ring in order to save her father.

Some legends never die…

Traveling with her treasure-hunting father has always been a dream for Theodora. She’s read every book in his library, has an impressive knowledge of the world’s most sought-after relics, and has all the ambition in the world. What she doesn’t have is her father’s permission. That honor goes to her father’s nineteen-year-old protégé—and once-upon-a-time love of Theodora’s life—Huck Gallagher, while Theodora is left to sit alone in her hotel in Istanbul.

Until Huck arrives from an expedition without her father and enlists Theodora’s help in rescuing him. Armed with her father’s travel journal, the reluctant duo learns that her father had been digging up information on a legendary and magical ring that once belonged to Vlad the Impaler—more widely known as Dracula—and that it just might be the key to finding him.

Journeying into Romania, Theodora and Huck embark on a captivating adventure through Gothic villages and dark castles in the misty Carpathian Mountains to recover the notorious ring. But they aren’t the only ones who are searching for it. A secretive and dangerous occult society with a powerful link to Vlad the Impaler himself is hunting for it, too. And they will go to any lengths—including murder—to possess it.

What are you guys waiting on this week? Let me know!

Tuesday, June 11, 2019

Ten Unpopular Bookish Opinions

Top 10 Tuesday is a post hosted by The Broke and the Bookish and this week's topic is Top Ten Unpopular Bookish Opinions.

  1. I don't like books about time travel. At all. I've never read one that I liked.
  2. I don't read books just so that I can claim diversity. I don't pick them based on author's race, character's race, etc. (I choose books based on which descriptions sound interesting to me.) Granted I will choose not to read a book based on the character's age range as I have my preferences there. *shrugs*
  3. I prefer to read on my phone or my kindle. Mostly because I can do that one handed. If I get any reading done during the day with the kids, it's a must to be one handed. Mostly, I tend to read at night on the couch while Husband is watching TV so I have a built in light.
  4. I no longer aim to have a room in my house as a dedicated library where I have shelves upon shelves of books. I've been striving to purge and become more of a minimalist (not completely all the way to a minimalist), so I'm only keeping physical copies of my absolute favorite books.
  5. I am uninterested in reading any LGBT books. Sorry, not sorry.
  6. I really hate when I read an author and love their clean books and then with each passing release they publish more and more sex scenes or increased description in these scenes. It's not necessary. I will love your books more without this included.
  7. Language. I hate it. There's nothing worse than loving the story line of a book but feeling like I'm limited in who I might want to recommend the book to due to language.
  8. I love audiobooks. I wish I could listen to them more.
  9. More often than not, I'm glad my favorite series has ended. I'm always torn when an author goes back to a series I love but considered closed.
  10. Frankly, I don't even want to read a book if there's not a love story in it. Nope not interested. I love love. I love love stories. This is what I read for. While other books might be amazing, I just don't have the time if the story isn't mostly driven by romance.

What are your unpopular bookish opinions? Let me know!

Monday, June 10, 2019

Fifth Grave Past the Light - Review

Fifth Grave Past the Light (Charley Davidson, # 5)

By: Darynda Jones

Publication: July 9th 2013 by St. Martin's Press

339 pages

Genre: Fantasy, Paranormal, Urban Fantasy, Mystery

Source: Publisher via NetGalley (Thank you!!)

( Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository )

*Note: The above links to Amazon and Book Depository are affiliate links. Affiliate links support giveaways for Somewhere Only We Know readers.

Goodreads description--Never underestimate the power of a woman on a double espresso with a mocha latte chaser high. - T-shirt

Charley Davidson isn't your everyday, run-of-the-mill grim reaper. She's more of a paranormal private eye/grim reaper extraordinaire. However, she gets sidetracked when the sexy, sultry son of Satan, Reyes Farrow, moves in next door. To further complicate matters, Reyes is her main suspect in an arson case. Charley has vowed to stay away from him until she can find out the truth...but then dead women start appearing in her apartment, one after another, each lost, confused, and terrified beyond reason. When it becomes apparent that her own sister, Gemma is the serial killer's next target, Charley has no choice but to ask for Reyes's help. Arsonist or not, he's the one man alive who could protect Gemma no matter who or what came at her. But he wants something in return. Charley. All of her, body and soul. And to keep her sister safe, it is a price she is willing to pay.

Charley Davidson is at it again in the sexy, suspenseful, and laugh-out-loud funny fifth installment of the New York Times best selling series.

You guys, I did it again. I couldn't stop progress long enough to review book 5 until I'd finished book 6. *facepalm* I hate doing this because it's hard to separate the two books when it comes time to review them. And I also hate joint reviews. So I'll just do my best to discuss only book 5 and the previous events. And I think it's enough to know that I couldn't stop reading long enough to review this book to show that I enjoyed it.

The description has covered things pretty well. Charley suspects Reyes to be the main suspect in a string of arson crimes. He came to her on one of the nights of one of the crimes smelling like smoke. And it doesn't help that all of the buildings that are being burned down are places that Reyes lived with Earl Walker--the man who raised and abused him. Some of the information we're given regarding Reyes's time with Walker really made my stomach hurt. At the same time, Charley has been slowly bombarded and overrun with blonde women who all appear to have been killed by the same person. Considering Charley's sister Gemma is also blonde, Charley suspects one of Gemma's clients to be the killer.

I didn't feel like much happened in the overall story of the series. I guess we get a little bit of knowledge courtesy of Stokes. And Charley and Reyes continue to get closer. Eee for that ending though.

I'm not sure I have much more to say about Fifth Grave Past the Light at this time. I blew through it. It was really good. I enjoyed it just as much as the other books in the series. I'm excited to see where things are headed. And so yeah, Fifth Grave Past the Light gets 4 Stars. Have you read Fifth Grave Past the Light? What did you think? Let me know!

Sunday, June 9, 2019

Sunday Post - 06/09/19

The Sunday Post is a weekly meme hosted by Kimba @ The Caffeinated Book Reviewer ~this meme was inspired in part by ~ In My Mailbox~ It's a chance to share News. A post to recap the past week, showcase books and things we have received and share news about what is coming up for the week on our blog.

Another week of 2019 down. It's going so fast. Monday and Tuesday were pretty normal days. The county came by to finally pick up our tree debris from the storm that we'd dragged to the road weeks ago. We had our spring AC check up on Tuesday, and it looks like we'll be getting a new inside and outside AC unit for our house. Such a big expense, but I'm thankful that we're in a position to be able to do it and not wait until it goes out on us completely and puts us in a financial bind. The latter half of this week it rained. We really needed the rain but boy is it tough being cooped up inside during the summer. I actually took the kids for a walk on the first day it rained and it rained on our walk. I didn't even care. The kids had a great time and we really needed to get out of the house. There's not much to say beyond that. Friday was a normal day. Saturday Grammy watched the kids for a couple of hours while Husband did some work on her roof. I took that opportunity to get some work done. I worked on cleaning and tidying the garage and laundry room as well as cleaning a good bit inside the house. I've been in such a cleaning, organizing, and purging mood. No new books this week. I've been trying to read at nights, but I've been so tired that I fall asleep on the couch as soon as I settle in.

THE PAST WEEK:

Monday: Review of The Noble Guardian (Bow Street Runners, # 3) by Michelle Griep (4 Stars)
Wednesday: Can't Wait for The Hive by Barry Lyga & Morgan Baden
Thursday: Review of Boundaries with Kids by Dr. Henry Cloud & Dr. John Townsend (5 Stars)

UPCOMING THIS WEEK:

Monday: Review of The Noble Guardian (Bow Street Runners, # 3) by Michelle Griep
Tuesday: Top Ten Tuesday?
Wednesday: Can't Wait for Wednesday
Thursday: Review of Boundaries With Kids by Dr. Henry Cloud & Dr. John Townsend

Don’t forget to link up for the 2019 Series Enders Reading Challenge! You have until December 15th, 2019 to sing up. Each month there will be a giveaway for those participating with an end of the year giveaway too! Click on the picture below or the link above to find out more!

That's it for my shelves and recaps of my past and upcoming week. What did you add to your shelves this week? Any bookish news you want to talk about? Let me know!

Thursday, June 6, 2019

Boundaries with Kids - Review

Boundaries with Kids: How Healthy Choices Grow Healthy Children

By: Dr. Henry Cloud & Dr. John Townsend

Publication: November 1st 2001 by Zondervan

224 pages

Genre: Non-fiction, Self-Help, Parenting, Christian, Psychology

Source: Personal Kindle Library

( Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository )

*Note: The above links to Amazon and Book Depository are affiliate links. Affiliate links support giveaways for Somewhere Only We Know readers.

Goodreads description--Keys for establishing healthy boundaries--the bedrock of good relationships, maturity, safety, and growth for children and adults.

To help their children grow into healthy adults, parents need to teach them how to take responsibility for their behavior, their values, and their lives. The authors of the Gold Medallion Award-winning book Boundaries bring their biblically-based principles to bear on the challenging task of child rearing, showing parents:
* how to bring control to an out-of-control family life
* how to set limits and still be loving parents
* how to define legitimate boundaries for the family
* how to instill in children a godly character

I read Boundaries 6 or 7 years ago and rated it 5 Stars. It was so good that I think every human being should read it. And that's exactly how I felt about Boundaries with Kids! 5 bazillion stars!!!! And every parent, teacher, grandparent, every person who is around children in an authority position. Really just everyone.

Dr. Henry Cloud and Dr. John Townsend take biblical principals like reaping what we sow, honesty, and love first. As a matter of fact, the doctors' constant push to keep love and empathy first was a huge plus for me. Everything about being a parent, raising your child, and disciplining is about the love we have for our children. I think so many parents have trouble setting boundaries because we love our children, but the way the doctors present the importance of setting boundaries shows just how loving it is to do this for your children.

The doctors often mention that consequences of setting boundaries for children are much less than when our children grow up without having boundaries and they have trouble with marriages or careers when they're adults. When you're looking at the big picture, the long term effects, setting boundaries is essential. And from what I can tell it is largely missing from entire generations and this isn't getting any better. Which makes the need for parents to read this book even more important.

You guys I highlighted 392 times in this 224-page book. I couldn't share my favorite quotes with you guys if I wanted to. But perhaps one of the biggest compliments that I can give this book is that I plan to turn around and re-read this book and potentially re-read it several times over the next eighteen years. I enjoyed reading Boundaries with Kids because I was excited about the changes I could implement in my parenting to improve my relationship with my child (my daughter is 3 and my son is 1 so we're not too much into parenting difficulties with him...but we'll get there). I wanted to return to this book if I needed to put it down. And I couldn't stop talking about it to everyone in my real life--even people who don't have kids or are now grandparents and not currently raising their own kids.

I wish so much that I could give you guys a proper review of this book. I plan to give it as a gift to all of my friends as each of them becomes a parent. I'm going to push Boundaries with Kids on anyone who is willing. This book deserves all the stars I can give it. A hearty, enthusiastic, re-readable 5 Star book! Have you read Boundaries with Kids? What did you think? Let me know!

Wednesday, June 5, 2019

Can't Wait for The Hive

Can't-Wait Wednesday is a weekly meme hosted by Wishful Endings to spotlight and talk about the books we're excited about that we have yet to read. Generally they're books that have yet to be released as well. It's based on Waiting on Wednesday, hosted by the fabulous Jill at Breaking the Spine. Find out more here.

The Hive

By: Barry Lyga & Morgan Baden

Expected Publication: September 3rd 2019 by Kids Can Press

416 pages

Genre: Young Adult, Science Fiction, Dystopian

( Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository )

*Note: The above links to Amazon and Book Depository are affiliate links. Affiliate links support giveaways for Somewhere Only We Know readers.

Goodreads description--Cassie McKinney has always believed in the Hive.

Social media used to be out of control, after all. People were torn apart by trolls and doxxers. Even hackers - like Cassie's dad - were powerless against it.

But then the Hive came. A better way to sanction people for what they do online. Cause trouble, get too many "condemns," and a crowd can come after you, teach you a lesson in real life. It's safer, fairer and perfectly legal.

Entering her senior year of high school, filled with grief over an unexpected loss, Cassie is primed to lash out. Egged on by new friends, she makes an edgy joke online. Cassie doubts anyone will notice.

But the Hive notices everything. And as her viral comment whips an entire country into a frenzy, the Hive demands retribution.

One moment Cassie is anonymous; the next, she's infamous. And running for her life.

With nowhere to turn, she must learn to rely on herself - and a group of Hive outcasts who may not be reliable - as she slowly uncovers the truth about the machine behind the Hive.

New York Times bestselling authors Barry Lyga and Morgan Baden have teamed up for the first time to create a novel that's gripping, terrifying and more relevant every day, based on a story proposal by Jennifer Beals and Tom Jacobson.

What are you guys waiting on this week? Let me know!

Monday, June 3, 2019

The Noble Guardian - Review

The Noble Guardian (The Bow Street Runners, # 3)

By: Michelle Griep

Expected Publication: June 1st 2019 by Shiloh Run Press

320 pages

Genre: Historical Fiction, Christian Fiction, Regency

Source: Publisher via NetGalley (Thank you!!)

( Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository )

*Note: The above links to Amazon and Book Depository are affiliate links. Affiliate links support giveaways for Somewhere Only We Know readers.

Goodreads description--A Cross-Country Trip through Regency England Brings Intrigue, Rogues, and High Adventure

The must-read conclusion to Michelle Griep’s Bow Street Runners Trilogy: Life couldn’t be better for Abigail Gilbert—but it’s been a long time in coming. Having lived with a family who hated her, it’s finally her time for love. Abby sets off on a journey across England to marry one of the most prestigious gentlemen in the land—until highwaymen upset her plans and threaten her life.

Horse patrol captain Daniel Thatcher arrives just in time to save Abby. But she’s simply another victim in a job he’s come to despise. Tired of the dark side of humanity, he intends to buy land and retire.

Abby pleads with him to escort her for the rest of her journey. He refuses—until she offers him something he desperately needs to achieve his goal. . .money. Delivering her safely will give him more than enough to buy property.

So begins an impossible trek for the cynical lawman and the proper lady. Each will be indelibly changed by the time they reach her betrothed, if they don’t kill one another first—or fall in love.

The Bow Street Runners series hasn't been a complete win for me. I really enjoyed Brentwood's Ward, but The Innkeeper's Daughter was a disappointment. I wanted to put off reading The Noble Guardian mostly because I needed a change in genre, but the publication date was quickly approaching so I decided to go ahead and read it.

I could quickly tell that the story and characters would be more interesting to me than The Innkeeper's Daughter. Abby's struggle with her family was heartbreaking from the beginning. Her determination to remain strong and her hope for a bright future despite her past was what really pulled me in.

Thatcher took a bit more convincing to be Abby's guardian than I expected. I guess my ignorance of what would be involved in being a traveling guardian came out here because I was expecting Thatcher to ride in the carriage with Abby so they could have all kinds of great conversations. It makes sense that this wouldn't be the case as the culture of the day wouldn't have really allowed it, plus you can actually guard better OUTSIDE of the carriage I suppose. I had no real complaints about Thatcher himself. Maybe a little more backstory besides him having been in the military and having lost a sister when he was younger. Not much else was explored.

I never even thought about the difficulties of transporting a baby in a carriage for long distances. Man, this was an interesting addition. Emma's part of The Noble Guardian was bittersweet. She was endearing, and as a mother of two young children, I can completely understand how draining it must have been to look after her in a confined space without the safety features we would have today.

Favorite quotes:

-"In my line of work, you run either from God or toward Him."

-"Past hurts often lose their sting when shared with others."

-To be driven to such extremes, loving wholeheartedly and desperately wishing for a minute alone? Or was she being selfish? Either way, God bless each and every self-sacrificing mother on the planet.

-"Life is more than good ideas. It's the risks that return greater results."

The Noble Guardian was more what I've come to expect from Michelle Griep. I was interested in and invested in the characters' well-being and happiness. While Thatcher was definitely involved in law-keeping and guarding, he had much less of a mystery to solve than the prior two books in this series. Personally, I was glad for that. The Noble Guardian gets 4 Stars. Have you read The Noble Guardian? What did you think? Let me know!

Sunday, June 2, 2019

Sunday Post & Stacking the Shelves - 06/02/19

The Sunday Post is a weekly meme hosted by Kimba @ The Caffeinated Book Reviewer ~this meme was inspired in part by ~ In My Mailbox~ It's a chance to share News. A post to recap the past week, showcase books and things we have received and share news about what is coming up for the week on our blog.

Monday was Memorial Day here in the US to remember those who have given their lives for our freedom. Monday Grammy kept the kids for a couple of hours for Husband and I to work on cleaning up our yard. There's still so, so much to do. The storm was a month ago. It's hard to believe. We went to Grammy's house to eat lunch, and then we went swimming. The kids were both exhausted and took really good naps. Tuesday and Wednesday were normal days. Thursday I had to make a trip to the grocery store which is always an adventure with two kids three and under. They did really well though all things considered. Friday I took the kids to the park. It was the nicest day weather wise we've had here in about two weeks. My niece came to spend the night with us Friday night. She impresses me so much. She's only fifteen, but she has her head screwed on straight. She has a beautiful heart, and I'm constantly impressed with her maturity. She kept her eyes on the kids for us while we yet again worked outside on Saturday. My brother-in-law also came to help us, and he brought his tractor which ended up being a much bigger help than I expected.

THE PAST WEEK:

Monday: Review of The Highest of Hopes (Canadian Crossings, # 2) by Susan Anne Mason (3 Stars)
Wednesday: Can't Wait for Fireborn (The Aurelian Cycle, # 1) by Rosaria Mundo
Thursday: Review of The Innkeeper's Daughter (Bow Street Runners, # 2) by Michelle Griep (2.5 Stars)
Friday: May 2019 EOM Wrap Up

UPCOMING THIS WEEK:

Monday: Review of The Noble Guardian (Bow Street Runners, # 3) by Michelle Griep
Tuesday: Top Ten Tuesday?
Wednesday: Can't Wait for Wednesday
Thursday: Review of Boundaries With Kids by Dr. Henry Cloud & Dr. John Townsend

Don’t forget to link up for the 2019 Series Enders Reading Challenge! You have until December 15th, 2019 to sing up. Each month there will be a giveaway for those participating with an end of the year giveaway too! Click on the picture below or the link above to find out more!

Stacking the Shelves is hosted by Tynga's Reviews.

The Hive

By: Barry Lyga & Morgan Baden

Expected Publication: September 3rd 2019 by Kids Can Press

416 pages

Genre: Young Adult, Science Fiction, Dystopian

Source: Publisher via NetGalley (Thank you!!)

( Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository )

*Note: The above links to Amazon and Book Depository are affiliate links. Affiliate links support giveaways for Somewhere Only We Know readers.

Goodreads description--Cassie McKinney has always believed in the Hive.

Social media used to be out of control, after all. People were torn apart by trolls and doxxers. Even hackers - like Cassie's dad - were powerless against it.

But then the Hive came. A better way to sanction people for what they do online. Cause trouble, get too many "condemns," and a crowd can come after you, teach you a lesson in real life. It's safer, fairer and perfectly legal.

Entering her senior year of high school, filled with grief over an unexpected loss, Cassie is primed to lash out. Egged on by new friends, she makes an edgy joke online. Cassie doubts anyone will notice.

But the Hive notices everything. And as her viral comment whips an entire country into a frenzy, the Hive demands retribution.

One moment Cassie is anonymous; the next, she's infamous. And running for her life.

With nowhere to turn, she must learn to rely on herself - and a group of Hive outcasts who may not be reliable - as she slowly uncovers the truth about the machine behind the Hive.

New York Times bestselling authors Barry Lyga and Morgan Baden have teamed up for the first time to create a novel that's gripping, terrifying and more relevant every day, based on a story proposal by Jennifer Beals and Tom Jacobson.

A Proper Scandal

By: Esther Hatch

Publication: May 1st 2019 by Covenant Communications

222 pages

Genre: Historical Fiction, Regency

Source: Publisher via NetGalley (Thank you!!_

( Goodreads | Amazon )

*Note: The above links to Amazon and Book Depository are affiliate links. Affiliate links support giveaways for Somewhere Only We Know readers.

Goodreads description--Grace Sinclair has been callously cast out of her home. And though taken in as an orphaned child by the vicar and his wife, her unsurpassed beauty makes it impossible for her to remain in the vicar’s household—with two daughters of their own about to enter Society, the vicar and his wife see Grace as nothing but competition. Thankfully, Grace’s estranged Aunt Bell has agreed to take her in to her home in London. But Grace soon learns her situation has just gotten much worse.

It takes only a moment’s acquaintance for Grace to ascertain that her aunt has married a detestable rake. And Aunt Bell, recognizing the danger of having her lovely niece too near her husband, gives Grace an ultimatum: the young woman has two weeks to find a man to marry, after which she will be turned out. With no experience in the art of attracting a husband, Grace quickly realizes that a worthy suitor might not be so easy to ensnare.

That's it for my shelves and recaps of my past and upcoming week. What did you add to your shelves this week? Any bookish news you want to talk about? Let me know!