Dead Reckoning - Review

Dead Reckoning (Sookie Stackhouse #11) by Charlaine Harris
Publication date: 03 May 2011 by Penguin/Ace Roc
ISBN 10/13: 0441020313 | 9780441020317

Category: Adult Urban Fantasy
Keywords: Urban fantasy, vampires, weres, fae, shapeshifters
Format: Hardcover, eBook and audiobook

From goodreads:

With her knack for being in trouble's way, Sookie witnesses the firebombing of Merlotte's, the bar where she works. Since Sam Merlotte is now known to be two-natured, suspicion falls immediately on the anti-shifters in the area. Sookie suspects otherwise, but her attention is divided when she realizes that her lover Eric Northman and his "child" Pam are plotting to kill the vampire who is now their master. Gradually, Sookie is drawn into the plot-which is much more complicated than she knows.

Thuy's review:

Sookie finds herself once again in a whole heap of trouble when she witnesses a fire bomb at Merlotte’s. The suspicion falls on the anti-Shifter groups in the area but Sookie has her own ideas about who might be behind it the attack. Throw in an assassination plot to kill the current vampire king and Sookie may have bitten off more than she can chew.

Charlaine Harris gets back on track with Dead Reckoning. The last book in the series was a huge disappointment for me. It was bogged down with way to many characters and dry explanations of vampire politics. This book returns to what I loved about the series in the first place - fun and interesting characters, drama and hot vampires! There was a little less Bill than I would have liked (Team Bill!) but Eric was definitely great. Some changes to Sookie and Eric’s relationship happen that I think were inevitable. There’s also plenty of sweet, sexy Sam in this one. Harris seriously needs to give him a girlfriend who isn’t mean or crazy (and yes, I volunteer).

We see the return of fan fave Bubba in a rare concert performance and Amelia the witch even makes a brief appearance. Sookie learns more about her fae heritage and the origins of her telepathic ability. This revelation wasn’t quite what I was expecting but it’s a nice piece of the Sookie puzzle to have.

Dead Reckoning is a quick, fun read that reminds me why I originally started reading this series and why I love Sookie. Looking forward to the next installment!

say "twee!"

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Find Thuy on Twitter @fishgirl182

In My Mailbox (18)

In My Mailbox is a weekly meme hosted by Kristi at The Story Siren. It gives book bloggers the chance to share what they’ve bought/borrowed/received! A friend of my friend went to ALA last week and came home with a box of books she didn't want/need. I got to borrow a bunch of ARCs from that box, which I am very excited about. 

For Review

A Tryst with Trouble by Alyssa Everette (Netgalley) - After Alethea read this and gave it a glowing review, I knew I had to read it. Thanks to NG for this one.

Starters by Lissa Price (Netgalley) - This book has been popping up on a lot of blogs lately. I am not a huge fan of the cover, but the premise is really interesting. We actually ran into author Lissa Price at the Megan Miranda signing this week. Can't wait to read this one.

Bought

The San Francisco Chronicle Cookbook - Found this at Goodwill for $3. I am from SF and I can't resist a good cookbook. Hoping to look through it this weekend.

Fracture by Megan Miranda - Megan was signing at Vromans this week and I was lucky enough to be able to go. She was super sweet and I got my copy signed!

Borrowed

Emmy and the Rats in the Bellfry for Lynne Jonell - Totally a case where I picked this up based on cover alone.

Wildwood by Colin Melloy & Carson Ellis - I've been wanting to read this for awhile.

The Peculiars by Maureen Doyle McQueery - ARC borrowed from my friend. I just love the cover and it sounds good!

The Secret Letters by Leah Sheier - Intrigue and a connection to Sherlock Holmes. Sign me up!

Some Girls Are by Courtney Summers - Can you believe I've never read a Courtney Summers book? Must remedy that.

BZRK by Michael Grant - This book looks intense. I haven't read any Michael Grant before but have heard only awesome things.

You Slay Me by Katie MacAlister - A fun looking romance/paranormal series that I have heard good things about.

Bloodlines by Richelle Mead (library ebook) - I love Vampire Academy and can't wait to read this one.

Won 

Geek Wisdom - I am pretty geeky and I was lucky enough to win this book. It looks like a fun read.

That's what I have this week, kids. What's in your mailbox?

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Follow Thuy on twitter @fishgirl182

Exclusively Yours - Review

Exclusively Yours (Kowalskis #1) by Shannon Stacey

Publication date: 20 December 2011 by Harlequin

ISBN 10/13:  0373776780 | 9780373776788
Goodreads | Amazon | B&N | Book Depository

Category: Adult Romance
Keywords: Romance, family
Format: Mass market paperback, eBook (e-ARC received from Netgalley)

From goodreads:

When Keri Daniels' editor finds out she has previous carnal knowledge of reclusive bestselling author Joe Kowalski, she gives Keri a choice: get an interview or get a new job.

Joe's never forgotten the first girl to break his heart, so he's intrigued to hear Keri's back in town--and looking for him. Despite his intense need for privacy, he'll grant Keri an interview if it means a chance to finish what they started in high school.

He proposes an outrageous plan--for every day she survives with his family on their annual camping and four-wheeling trip, Keri can ask one question. Keri agrees; she's worked too hard to walk away from her career.

But the chemistry between them is still as potent as the bug spray, Joe's sister is out to avenge his broken heart and Keri hasn't ridden an ATV since she was ten. Who knew a little blackmail, a whole lot of family and some sizzling romantic interludes could make Keri reconsider the old dream of Keri & Joe 2gether 4ever.

Thuy's review:

This is my first full length Shannon Stacey novel. I’d previously read her short shorty,  Mistletoe & Margaritas, in the Holiday Kisses Anthology which I really enjoyed. I was excited to see that Stacey was coming out with a new series. Exclusively Yours is the first in the Kowalski family series and is the story of Joe Kowalski and his high school sweetheart Keri Daniels. Once the golden couple of their high school, Keri breaks it off with Joe after graduation and moves to California to pursue a career in journalism. Fast forward twenty years later and Keri’s moving up in the ranks at a gossip-y but popular entertainment magazine and Joe is a world famous fiction author. When Keri’s crazy obsessed boss learns of her former connection with Joe, she sends Keri off to get an exclusive interview with him, on pain of losing her job.

Joe hasn’t seen Carrie since the day she left and is as surprised as everyone is when she shows up back in town looking for him. Joe doesn’t want to make this easy on Keri and convinces her to go on the annual Kowalski camping trip in exchange for the interview. Keri’s not really the outdoors type but will do anything to get the interview. But the attraction and chemistry between Joe and Keri hasn’t gone away after all these years and both Keri and Joe start wondering if they have a future together.

This book was hard to rate for me. On one hand, I really enjoy Stacey’s writing style. The book was well written, funny and had a large cast of interesting and quirky characters. The chemistry between Joe and Keri is hot and their banter is fun and filled with sexual tension. Unfortunately the biggest problem I had with the book was Keri’s character. For most of the book she came off a superficial and ambitious, only trying to get what she wants from Joe before going back to her life in California. She makes light of serious topics and keeps reminding Joe and everyone else that she won’t be sticking around for long. I don’t actually believe she is this callous character but we get very little insight into her feelings. Late in the book we get a little peek into what she’s thinking and why she may have left Joe originally but it goes by quickly and isn’t fully explored. I just didn’t get the feeling for most of the book that she was as invested in the relationship as Joe.

On the other hand, I really liked Joe. Even though he sets out to take her camping as a bit of fun and petty revenge, it soon becomes obvious that his feeling for Keri haven’t gone away since they’ve been separated. He was devastated after she left and it look him a long time to pick up the pieces. He’s caring, sweet, and has a dark sense of humor. I loved how patient he was with Keri when she was freaking out about the camp facilities and riding on an ATV. I wanted to give him a big hug and take him home with me.

Joe and Keri’s romance isn’t the only thing going on in the book though. Since the whole Kowalski gang is there, there’s bound to be some other family drama. Joe’s sister Terry and her husband, Evan, are going through a separation. I wasn’t a huge fan of the Terry/Evan storyline. Terry’s been holding a grudge against Keri since they stopped being friends in high school and then Keri broke Joe’s heart, putting her at the top of Terry’s sh*tlist. Terry is unpleasant to Keri every chance she gets and has a pretty bad attitude most of the time and I just didn’t find myself caring for her marriage all that much. On the flip side, the story with Joe’s brother Mike and his wife Lisa ended up being super sweet. Even though I think both of these stories were meant to show the family dynamic, I found them at times to be a little overly involved, taking time away from Joe and Keri’s developing relationship.

I ended up giving this one 3 stars because I really do think this series has potential. Stacey has an easy to read style and I enjoyed the banter between the two leads. By the end of the book I was really rooting for Joe and Keri to get their happily ever after. The end of this book has a little tidbit into the next book, featuring Joe’s younger brother Kevin, and I am looking forward to reading his story.

I received this book free of charge from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. This, in no way, affected my opinion or review of this book.

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Visit the author online at http://shannonstacey.com and follow her on Twitter @ShannonStacey 

Immortal Rider - Review

Immortal Rider (Lords of Deliverance #2) by Larissa Ione

Publication date: 01 December 2011 by Grand Central Publishing

ISBN 10/13: 0446574473 | 9780446574471
Goodreads | Amazon | B&N | Book Depository

Category: Adult Paranormal Romance
Keywords: Paranormal, romance, underworld, apocalypse, Four Horsemen
Format: Mass market paperback, eBook (e-ARC received from Netgalley)

Thuy's synopsis:

Immortal Rider is the story of Limos, one of the Four Horsemen of the Apocalypse. Sister to the other three Horsemen, Limos (aka Famine) has a pretty carefree existence living on a tropical Hawaiian island when she’s not trying to stop her evil brother Pestilence from destroying the world and protecting her Seal from breaking and causing the Apocalypse. And oh yeah - she’s also betrothed to Satan himself and he’s tired of waiting.

Arik’s a soldier in the R-XR, a paranormal military unit that works with The Aegis and it helping to prevent the Apocalypse. Unfortunately Arik doesn’t know that Limos is engaged when he kisses her and he’s dragged to Hell for his trouble. While Satan’s minions invent new and painful ways to torture Arik, Limos and her brothers try to find him down before Limos’ Seal breaks. But the trouble doesn’t end once Arik escapes. An evil plot to break the Seals and bring Hell on earth escalates and Arik and Limos find themselves in the middle of it.

Thuy's Review:

This was a hard review to write. I was so excited to get my hot little hands on this. I’ve been waiting for Arik’s story for awhile. He first showed up in Passion Unleashed as Runa’s overprotective and sometimes jerk brother. There was always something about Arik that intrigued me, even though he wasn’t always the most appealing character. I just knew there was more to him than what we were seeing. Unfortunately this book fell somewhat short of my expectations.

The book starts off strong with Arik making a move on Limos and getting pulled into Hell. While there, he is tortured beyond sanity but manages to hold it together and doesn’t betray Limos. I was touched by his show of loyalty in the face of incredible pain for a woman who barely knew. But that’s the type of guy Arik is - extremely loyal and stubborn, often thinking of others before himself. Limos, meanwhile is looking for him. As she does, we learn a lot more about her past and why she is the way she is. As the bride of Satan, she hasn’t had a lot of time for fun in her life and therefore, tries to live life to the fullest. She’s fiercely protective of her family and takes that protectiveness too far sometimes. She’s also a pretty bad ass fighter, which I love. While it doesn’t seem like the serious, solid Arik and the fun loving, party throwing Limos would make a good match, but they are. They both come from troubled backgrounds and have a lot of guilt that they’re trying to get over.

Unfortunately, I felt that it lost steam somewhere in the middle and Limos and Arik’s story became overshadowed by all of the subplots going on - from the Reaver/Harvester story to the Than/Regan storyline (which we’ll get into more in a bit) . Arik and Limos also spend quite a lot of time apart in this book. I don’t blame Arik too much as he was being tortured in hell, but because of the physical distance, I felt that Arik and Limos didn’t get enough time together to develop their relationship. I mean, they don’t even get a real love scene until the very end of the book and the scene that is supposed to be their official “first time” is somewhat heart breaking. Plus, where the heck is Satan? I thought for sure he’d show up at some point to claim Limos or at least try to kill someone, but it never happens.

There’s a lot of emphasis put on the Than/Regan relationship in this one as a setup to the next book. I have mixed feelings about this storyline. On the one hand, I feel that Regan and Than have great chemistry and the sort of love/hate relationship that I love. On the other hand, I find the reason that Regan was sent there to be somewhat distasteful and it’s hard to see how their relationship will work.

I did enjoy all of the cameos by the Sem brothers and the Demonica crew. Cara’s hellhound Hal even makes an appearance. Even though this wasn’t my favorite book, I still enjoyed it. I am definitely invested in the world and characters that Larissa Ione has created and am anxiously awaiting the next installment.

I received this book free of charge from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. This, in no way, affected my opinion or review of this book.

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Visit the author online at www.larissaione.com and follow her on Twitter @LarissaIone

Uncovered (1): Even White Trash Zombies Get The Blues

Uncovered is a new feature of sorts where I will share a book cover and give some thoughts on it. I don't know if this will be a regular feature or just something I post when I find have something to share, but we'll see how it goes. 

Thoughts:  I am LOVING this cover! It's no secret that I bought the first book in the series based solely on its cover (all the gorgeous pink!) and I really thought that the new cover would have a hard time competing. However, Dan Dos Santos does it again and delivers a fantastic cover for the sequel. I love the blue theme and the graffiti writing for the title. Angel's hair looks awesome again. Small details like the grimy toilet and her exasperated expression add to the overall feel of it. What do you think? Love it, hate it? Which do you like better? I am torn between the two. I really love the first cover but the new one is pretty awesome. I reserve choosing a favorite for now. I'd love to hear what you think! Even White Trash Zombies Gets The Blues comes out July 3, 1012.

Previous covers in the series

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Visit the author online at www.dianarowland.com or on Twitter @DianaRowland 

In My Mailbox (17)

In My Mailbox is a weekly meme hosted by Kristi at The Story Siren. It gives book bloggers the chance to share what they’ve bought/borrowed/received!

Keeping it pretty low key this week. After last week's book buying binge I am trying not to purchase too many books. I am also participating in Netgalley month and have been trying really hard to read my NG books. I think I am doing a pretty good job so far. Now let's see what I got.

Bought

Glitches by Marissa Meyer - This is a short prequel to Cinder, which I just finished this week and loved. I can't wait for book 2. I am hoping this will tide me over for a little while. 

Borrowed

    

IQ84 by Haruki Murakami (ebook) - I've actually never read a Murakami book. I know - for shame! But I have friends who are fans so I wanted to give this one a go.

Deadly Cool by Gemma Halliday - I've heard good things about this one and who doesn't love a murder mystery?

Rebecca by Daphne Du Maurier - This is one of my friend's favorite books. I've seen the Hitchcock movie and liked it. I hear the book is even better.

What's in your mailbox this week?

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Follow Thuy on twitter @fishgirl182

Shameless Blog Hop

Hosted by Jen at Red Hot Books, 

Brie at Romance Around the Corner & 

Michelle at Michelle's Book Blog

Hoo-ah! This blog hop is for those blogs that are a little too sexy for our shirts. Make sure you click on the rest of the blog links for more chances to win books! (Sorry, Blogger is being lame and not showing the link list. You can get to it by clicking on the sexy abs up top, or just click here.)

RNSL Nite Lite is giving away one book of your choice up to $15 in value from BookDepository.com. This contest is open Internationally!

Here are some suggestions from Thuy:

And some from Alethea:

The winner can pick whichever book(s) they want as long as the total is somewhere around $15. It doesn't even have to be a sexy romance. It just has to be available from bookdepository.com. The winner will be announced Jan. 28!

Just for fun, some Sherlock man-candy I found on Tumblr. You're welcome.  

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a Rafflecopter giveawayHappy hopping!

A Tryst with Trouble - Advance Review

A Tryst with Trouble by Alyssa Everett  

Publication date: 1 April 2012 by Dorchester Publishing

ISBN 10/13: 1428516425 | 978-1428516427

Category: Adult Romantic Suspense/Mystery
Keywords: Mystery, suspense, romance, Regency
Format: Paperback (received as an eARC from Netgalley)

Jacket copy:

Dogged for years by painful gossip about his father’s homosexuality, the Marquess of Beningbrough—Ben, to his friends—has protected himself by becoming the ultimate man’s man. Passed over by suitor after suitor in favor of her pretty but vapid younger sister, clever, forthright Lady Barbara Jeffords has reached the disappointing conclusion most men are shallow, boorish clods. 

When a philandering footman turns up dead, the two square off: he’s sure she’s determined to pin the crime on his hapless young cousin, while she thinks he means to shift the blame to her sister. To find the real killer, Ben and Barbara must declare a truce that threatens to expose both their buried insecurities and their growing desire for each other.

Alethea's review:

It's been ages since I read a really satisfying Regency romance. I read a few last year that I don't even count as having read since they were so poorly written and disengaging, I might as well have been leafing through a ten-year-old copy of Cosmo. (Wait, is Cosmo still around?)

A Tryst with Trouble, Alyssa Everett's debut novel, was just what I needed to revive my love for Regency. Ben and Barbara provided everything I look for in a good couple--likeability, chemistry, and conflict. Everett embroils them in mystery, a few improper situations, and just enough comedy to keep it from being a stuffy Historical with a capital H. At first I thought I'd be annoyed by the alternating points of view, but I ended up enjoying it. It's really the author's knack for balancing all the story elements that kept me firmly engaged in this novel.

Here's a bit from Barbara's perpective that made me laugh out loud:

"Do you think my pulse always hammers that way?"
"I don't know." I gulped, afraid to let myself believe I was the cause. "You might have a heart condition."

Everett also throws in a bit of commentary on homosexuality that strikes me as very modern, and that I found very welcome especially against the backdrop of prim and proper English society. It's done well in that not only does it seem plausible, but it also figures slightly in the plot--not enough to be a central issue but shaping and nudging the rest of the puzzle pieces into place.

Oddly enough, the last three Regencies I read were sadly lacking in the department of hot and bothered--sad wastes of a romance novel, in my book. I know they're supposed to be more on the tame side compared to Historicals, but there's a fine line between getting some and getting none at all. Again, Everett manages to balance tension with release--not too much, not too little--just right.

A too-transparent mystery would have ruined this for me, but don't be too quick to decide whodunit. Everett managed to keep me guessing almost up until the end. (It also didn't hurt that my mind cast the actors from the new BBC Sherlock in some of the leading roles--yum!) This is definitely one I will be picking up to re-read, and I'll be looking forward to more entertaining releases from this bright new author!

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Visit the author online at www.alyssaeverett.com and follow her on Twitter @Alyssa_Everett.

I received this book free of charge from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. This, in no way, affected my opinion or review of this book.

Top Ten Tuesday: Books I'd Recommend To Someone Who Doesn't Read Comics

Top Ten Tuesday is a weekly feature/meme created by the folks over at The Broke and the Bookish. To sign up or find out more about it, visit the Top Ten Tuesday page. This week's topic is Books I'd Recommend To Someone Who Doesn't Read X. X can be any category you pick so I am choosing Comics/Graphic Novels. The terms comics and graphic novels have sort of become interchangeable over the years, even though technically I think they're a bit different. Comics generally come out in serialized form (like once a month, once very two months, etc.) whereas graphic novels are created to be consumed at once time, like a regular novel. In this case we're just going to say they're close enough since what we're really talking about is sequential art. I am not going to get too crazy with definitions but if you're ever interested in learning more about comics as a medium, I totally suggest checking out Scott McCloud's Understanding Comics. On to the books!

(in no particular order)

1. Batman: The Long Halloween by Jeph Loeb & Tim Sale - Like dark, gritty, intelligent writing and fantastic art? Then you won't be disappointed with The Long Halloween, one of my favorite Batman stories ever about a serial killer who only kills on holidays. Creepy!


2. Maus by Art Spiegelman - This one shows up on a lot of lists but there's a reason for it. Spiegelman's own story as well as his father's story of surviving Nazi Germany is poignant, emotional and gripping. Winner of the Pulizter Prize.


3. Fables Vol. 1: Legends In Exile by Bill Willingham & Mark Buckingham - Long before there was Once Upon A Time, there was Fables, a story about legendary characters who aren't fiction but are very real and living in modern day New York. Exiled from their homelands but an evil emperor, they are waiting for the day when they can go home again. Vol 1 isn't my favorite. It's sort of a mystery plot that isn't as interesting as the later books are. However, it does introduce you to the characters the world. Each Vol gets better and better. James Jean also does the first 100 covers to this series and each one is a work of art.

4. Kabuki: Skin Deep by David Mack - David Mack's artwork is totally unique. Collage, watercolor, photography, painting and drawing all combine in a one-of-a-kind style. Kabuki is his own creation, a former assassin with a lot of family issues who has a scarred face. In this storyline, Kabuki is institutionalized and makes friends with some of her fellow inmates and plots to escape the facility.

5. Preacher Vol 1: Gone To Texas by Garth Ennis & Steve Dillon - After a preacher who loses faith bonds with a deity and gains "The Word", he and his gun toting ex-girlfriend and an Irish vampire prone to drinking embark on a mission to find God and hold him accountable for his actions. Throw in a twisted kingpin character, strange sexual acts, crazy redneck relations and you have a demented and brilliant story. Also, the covers are fantastic. This one is definitely for mature readers.


6. Y: The Last Man Vol 1:Unmanned by Brian K Vaughn & Pia Guerra - This is the story of what would happen if all the men on Earth suddenly died of an unknown cause. Yorick and his pet monkey are the last males on the planet and they must battle extremist biker gangs, Republicans and a few assassins as Yorick tries to find his girlfriend and the answer to what happened to all the men on the planet.

7. Watchmen by Alan Moore & Dave Gibbons - Also on a lot of lists. This is a pretty epic volume. It reads a little bit dated today but is still an excellent read. It's pretty dense especially since it has pages of just text. But it's definitely worth reading.

8. Bone Vol 1: Out From Boneville by Jeff Smith - Bone totally reminds me of my childhood. This was probably one of the first black and white comic books I read (the newer Scholastic versions have been colorized). Fantastic and magical story about an odd little creature named Bone and his adventures with his cousin Phoney Bone and Smiley Bone. Stupid, stupid rat creatures!

9. The Invention of Hugo Cabret by Brian Selznick - Is this considered a graphic novel or just a novel? I am really not sure. I feel like it's half pictures and half prose. Anyway - this is a beautiful and imaginative story of a boy named Hugo who becomes involved in a mystery involving an odd machine that his father left behind. Gorgeous, gorgeous book! The movie that came out this year by Martin Scorcese was also quite good.

I know I am missing one as I had to cut it short due to time. But there are many, many wonderful comics and graphic novels out there in every genre and style that you can probably imagine. Check out the graphic novels section of your local bookstore the next time you're there or, better yet, visit your local comic shop for the best selection. 

say "twee!"

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follow thuy on twitter @fishgirl182

Short Story Review: Melt by Natalie Anderson

Melt by Natalie Anderson

Publication date: 06 December 2011 by Entangled Publishing

ASIN: B006O59TDO

Category: Adult Contemporary Romance
Keywords: Romance, contemporary, realistic, Antarctica
Format: eBook

From goodreads:

When two frozen hearts collide…

Emma Reed closed her heart to love years ago after a lifetime spent getting kicked around foster homes and bad relationships. Now she’s on a mission to prove she deserves her recent award to paint a mural for a research base in Antarctica. Nothing and no one is going to get in her way.

After months working in recovery zones around the world, Hunter Wilson planned to escape everything this holiday season by rebuilding a lab at the Kiwi Research Base. Alone. No to family, no to fun. It’s isolation not intimacy he’s aching for. But when he sees the determined artist, that ache becomes an urge – after all, shouldn’t someone show her what two people can do with twenty-four hours of brilliant sunlight?

In the coldest place on earth, even the most frozen hearts can melt.

Thuy's review:

Melt, by Natalie Anderson, is a short and fun read about to solitary people who find more than they were looking for in the stark but magical setting of Antarctica.

Emma Reed is embarking on the trip of a lifetime. The winner of an art competition, she is chosen to paint a mural in a facility in Antarctica. Determined to prove herself as an artist, she has no time for romance or the distraction that is Hunter Wilson. Hunter has come to Antarctica to escape his family for the holidays and isn’t looking for any entanglements. However, that doesn’t stop him from flirting outrageously with Emma.

While Hunter and Emma start of their relationship with lots of flirting and innuendo, they don’t just jump into bed together. Hunter takes Emma under his wing as the veteran Antarctica visitor and they become very good friends. Though Hunter still manges to flirt at every opportunity, it’s clear that it’s not just about sex, and they are both surprised by the connection that develops as they get to know each other. Neither of them wants their time together to end. When a sudden snow storm extends Emma’s stay for a couple of days, they both finally give into their attraction and boy, is it worth the wait.

A sweet story with sizzling chemistry, Melt pulled me in with great characters, a compelling story and an incredible setting. I loved the little details about life in Antarctica. A truly unique and fascinating setting, it was the perfect backdrop to the story.

Anderson packs a lot of punch into a very short story. Filled with witty dialogue and funny, likable characters, Melt was the perfect quick read. This is my first Natalie Anderson but not my last. Hers is definitely a name I will keep an eye out for in the future.

I received this book free of charge from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. This, in no way, affected my opinion or review of this book.

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Visit the author online at www.natalie-anderson.com and follow @authornataliea on Twitter

In My Mailox (16)

In My Mailbox is a weekly meme hosted by Kristi at The Story Siren. It gives book bloggers the chance to share what they’ve bought/borrowed/received!

I was kind of bad this week. Actually, I was really bad. I went on a bit of a YA binge. B&N had a great 50% off coupon off all teen books and I had an Amazon order come in. I don't feel too bad since I got these all at great prices and I really wanted them but it's definitely time for a bit of a book diet. (P.S. - Reminder that all my YA reviews can by found at Read Now Sleep Later)

I also picked up a couple of things from the library and only picked up a couple of Netgalley titles. I am still doing Netgalley Month and have read 2 books for far from my NG pile. Nothing crazy but it's still good to get them off my list. Too lazy to add links today - sorry! Now, onto the books!

Bought

Bittersweet by Sarah Ocker - OMG the cover is shiny and gorgeous! Big fan of Sarah Ockler and I hear this one book has cupcakes in it. Win!

The Probability of Miracles by Wendy Wunder - Another book whose cover I fell in love with. As you can see, I am a total sucker for a good cover.

Perfect Chemistry by Simone Elkeles - Have heard amazing things about this one and could not resist!

The Alchemy of Forever by Avery Williams - After reading a review by Angie at Beneath the Jacket, I knew this one had to come home with me.

Shattered Souls by Mary Lindsay - Since no one got me this for Christmas, I gifted it to myself.

Soul Screamers Vol 1 by Rachel Vincent - I've been wanting to try this series and love the cover on this collection.

Vampire Academy Ultimate Guide by Richelle Mead - I am a total VA fangirl and squeeed when I saw this.

Touch of Frost by Jennifer Estep - Yup, another series I've been wanting to try. Coupons really do get people to buy more. :)

Borrowed

The Unwanteds by Lisa McMann - Been wanting to read this one since I saw it at Comic Con last summer. Found it at the library this week.

The Fourth Stall by Chris Rylander - For some reason I haven't read this yet. Had to get it from the library asap.

Rebellious Desire by Julie Garwood - I can't seem to stop the historical romance train.

Won

The Fourth Stall Part II by Chris Rylander - The lovely folks at Walden saw me fawning over this on Twitter and were kind enough to send me an ARC of part two.

 

For Review
(from the lovely Netgalley)

Touch Me by Callie Croix - Romance about friends becoming something more. Sounds juicy!

How To Dance With A Duke by Manda Collins - This one sounds interesting and who can resist a duke? Not me.

Partials by Dan Wells - So excited that NG approved me for this one. Great premise and it looks like it might be really good.

That's what I have in my mailbox this week. I hope everyone has a nice MLK holiday. I get Monday off and hope to do some movie watching and vegging out. Have a great weekend!

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Thuy would really love a cinnamon roll right now. Foll her on twitter @fishgirl182