Stacking The Shelves: March

What is Stacking The Shelves all about?

Stacking The Shelves is hosted by Tynga all about sharing the books you are adding to your shelves, may it be physical or virtual. This means you can include books you buy in physical store or online, books you borrow from friends or the library, review books, gifts and of course ebooks!

Happy Easter! I hope you all have a lovely day!

March was a good haul month! Definitely didn't realise how eBook crazy I went until I complied this post!
 
Actual Shelf!

 
I received a 20% voucher for Foyles so I made a quick trip for these two!
Seraphina by Rachel Hartman- This one caught my eye, how gorgeous is the cover? I love the sound of it!
Pandemonium by Lauren Oliver- The waitlist at my library for Pandemonium is so long I thought I'd just get my own copy!
 
Virtual Shelf!

Impossible by Komal Kant. I had this one on my wishist and noticed it was free!
Ten Days of Perfect by Andrea Randall. I'm not sure how I stumbled across this one but it was free!
The Prince by Kiera Cass. I feel like all dystopian series have novellas in between books! I loved The Selection so I automatically brought this one1
Stealing Parker by Miranda Kenneally. I loved Catching Jordan so I jumped at the chance to download Stealing Parker for £1.49.

This section is devoted to 77p bargains!

Deeper We Fall by Chelsea M. Cameron. I've had my eye on this one for ages!
Depths by Steph Campbell and Liz Reinhardt. I love these collaborations and I was so excited when Depths was released early for 77p!
The Truth About Letting Go by Leigh T. Moore. I really need to read The Truth about Faking It but I couldn't let this bargain slip away!
Waiting for You by Shey Stahl. This one sounds so good I took a chance on it!
10 Weeks by Jolene Perry and Janna Watts. I jumped at the chance of Jolene Perry bargains!
3 Sides to a Circle by Jolene Perry and Janna Watts. See above^.
Give Me Something by Elizabeth Lee. Love the cover and the blurb sounds so intriguing!
The Space Between by Victoria H. Smith. Another random buy!
Last minute buy!
One Week Girlfriend by Monica Murphy. I missed this one last time it was 77p so I downloaded it straight away this time!
 
Review Shelf!
NetGalley

The Academy: Game On by Monica Seles. I love how gossipy this one sound.
The Rose Throne by Mette Ivie Harrison. I read The Princess and The Hound ages ago so I'm excited to read more from Mette!
Dear Cassie by Lisa Burstein. I loved The Next Forever so I'm looking forward to finding out more about the characters.
Shallow Pond by Alissa Grosso. This one just caught my eye!

Definitely need to take an Amazon break!
What did you add to your shelves this month?
Much Love!
Lettie
Xxx

Lettie Loves Films!

Good Friday! I will be celebrating Good Friday like I always do with fish and chips at my Grandparents!
I mentioned the other week that I had a crazy film week so I thought I'd do a little post on them! 

 Jack the Giant Slayer!

Courtesy of Sky Rewards- 3D!

I really wanted to see this one so I was thrilled when I managed to get Sky Rewards tickets last minute!
I loved the premise, Jack and the Beanstalk is such a well loved tale! This adaptation was so clever. I loved the interpretation, the little aspects that linked back to the original tale as well as adding a new dimension were so well incorporated and the film flowed effortlessly. The ending was such a clever twist!
Jack was the perfect hero, witty and courageous I liked his backstory and how he was such a dreamer. The way he stepped up to plate to rescue Isabelle and do the right thing was portrayed as so natural for him.
Isabelle was one of those characters that grew on me. She initially annoyed me but as her relationship with her father and her reaction to her future were explored I really warmed to her. She was brave if s little naïve and I loved her feminist attitude to ruling.
Lord Roderick, typical villain. I liked the character and his little assistant who at times seemed harsh than Roderick! I do feel he did not think his plan through!
Actors who stood out- Nicholas Hoult as Jack- brilliantly acted and portrayed character. Ewan McGregor as Elmont- Such a comic hero!
Confusion- The monks- they seemed so important but once the beanstalk appeared they disappeared?
 

 Oz, The Great and Powerful!

I knew I wanted to see this the second I heard of it! I loved the Wizard of Oz so I was thrilled to see more of that world!
I've already mentioned my love of Wizard of Oz so I loved all the little links back to the original film especially the foreshadowing and how every major point of the original film was absorbed into this film. I loved the whole set up of the plot and the build up, the film managed to retain an element of surprise and suspense despite the fact most people have seen the final outcome.
The characters were fabulously created out of Frank Baum's imagination and small details added or enhanced to add originality.
I found Oz to be hilariously arrogant- I kind of loved what a con artist he was in the 'real' world. I enjoyed watching him grow as a character and use his former ways to really help the people of Oz.
Theodora was my initially favourite character, I loved her image and outlook. She did seem overly naïve for a witch but she was so nice it balance out.
I think Eva was the most evil character, her deception and lack of familial compassion was unnerving.
I loved Oz's two 'sidekicks'. Finlay was such a loyal character, I loved that he was a talking flying monkey. The relationship between Finlay and Oz was so entertaining because once Finlay pledges his irrevocable life debt to Oz he has to keep all his secrets which he finds so hard! I just loved his character.
China Doll was such a sweet character. I loved how gentle Oz was with her and how carefully he put her back together. She was at times much braver than Oz and Finlay and much more tough. I loved how she switched on tears to get Oz to let her stay. I felt for her as her whole village was destroyed but she remained strong and determined.
I loved the conclusion of the film it really set the scene for The original story and film.
Actors who stood out- Mila Kunis as Theodora- brilliantly acted, she brought so many different emotions to a complex character. Joey King as China Girl- Such good vocal acting for a young girl!
Confusion- Glinda- why didn't she use her powers more effectively.
 

Wreck-it-Ralph!

I love Disney so naturally I had to see their latest film!
Such a great premise! Arcade games were such a big part of childhood for so many people so it provided a link to that. I loved that it was from the point of view of the 'villain'. The community they built 'behind' the games was so well planned and it was so entertaining to see all the different character interacting. I loved the support group they ran for them so they could talk about how being bad made them feel so witty and funny. The actual plot was so cleverly layered that even if you figure out one part of it you still ended up surprised. The inclusion of modern space/violent games was very tongue-in-cheek, the way Ralph was so traumatised by the violence was a clever message as well as comical.
Ralph was a great character. I really felt for the way he was left out in his game, forced to sleep outside and rarely invited in. Ralph has a point because he was obviously very good at wrecking things which was his job so why wasn't he rewarded? I loved how he accidently went rouge and tried to become a hero. His relationship with Vanellope was so cute, I loved how it made both of them better people.
Vanellope was definitely my favourite character! She was tough  and confident in herself despite being picked on by everyone in her game and unable to leave. The other racers were absolutely awful to her! The way she teased Ralph was so funny to watch and her determination was really touching. I loved the twist!
The side cast was great as it always in Disney films. Fix-it-Felix was such a stereotypical nice guy who was genuinely confused as to Ralph's unhappiness. The Nicelanders were really quite mean but I could kind of understand them- loved how they eventually welcomed Ralph. Sergeant Tamora Jean Calhoun was so stern and militant she made me giggle. King Candy was slightly creepy and reminded me of an Alice in Wonderland character. Sour Bill really suited his name, his voice was so dour!
Actors who stood out- Sarah Silverman as Vanellope- brilliantly portrayed such a range of emotions. Jane Lynch as Sergeant Tamora Jean Calhoun- I loved how you could heard such a range of tones in her voice.
Cameo- Skylar Astin as a Nicelander- I loved him in Pitch Perfect.

What have you seen recently?
Let me know if you like this kind of post!
Much Love!
Lettie
Xxx

Make It Last by Bethany Lopez

In a small town, it's hard to recover from being dumped by your high school sweetheart. That's just what Briana has to do after Colin leaves her to follow his dreams. She focuses her energy into her friendships and the pursuit of her own goal of becoming a chef. Just when she finally feels like she's on the right path, he comes back to town.

Colin knew breaking up with Briana before leaving for college was the right thing to do. He was determined to leave small-town life behind forever, and that included his high school girlfriend. But when a sports injury puts him on the sidelines, he's forced to return home. Seeing Briana again brings back a lot of memories, and Colin wonders if he made the right decision. It doesn't take long for him to realize he wants her back, and this time, he wants to make it last.

I finally get around to reading this one because of the I Choose You blog tour!

What I Loved:

• Colin- I really liked Colin! I could see why he'd made the decision to break up with Bree but he definitely could of handled it better! I really felt for the way one injury ruined all his plans and ambition but I loved how he realised new dreams. His bromance with Rich was the perfect mix of advice and banter which I loved!
• Bree- I loved how strong and realistic she was in relation to Colin especially as he had broken her heart before. I loved that she fell for grown up Colin instead of just going back to the boy she used to know. Her culinary dreams were so inspiring and her approach was so practical you could sense her enthusiastic determination.
• Side cast- I loved all the characters in this small Texas town. Kara and Pete were definitely my favourite, I loved how their story ran parallel to the main story- I had to double check they didn't have their own book. Rich was my close second, I loved how flirty he was with all the girls but still a genuinely good guy. The series link was obvious in the way certain characters were introduced or hinted at which was both clever and intriguing. 
• Writing style- I really enjoyed Bethany's writing style it flowed beautifully. I loved how Kara and Pete's story was interweaved with Bree and Colin's. I liked the way the main character's viewpoints flowed and the strong series link throughout the book. I especially loved how the title was incorporated into the story. make it last in.

What I Didn't Love as Much:

• Short- I felt it could have been much longer! I would have loved more on Bree and Colin's lives etc. I do love how the whole series runs on a continuous timeframe so you get to see the development of the relationship through their friend's eyes.

I loved the characters and writing style and it was so easy to read!

Have you read any of the Friends and Lovers series?
Much Love!
Lettie
Xxx

Bloggiesta Wrap Up

I always enjoy Bloggiesta and this weekend I feel I've got a lot of Back of Blog stuff done!
 
Mini Challenges!
Feed Reader Mini Challenge over at The Picky Girl! 
I loved the pros and cons layout as it made all the readers so easy to understand!
Blogger- I already use and love Blogger as it's so convenient! I hope it doesn't disappear to!
Feedly- I gave it a try! First issue was that I use Internet Explorer and you can't install or use it with IE which is unhelpful. I gave it a second chance and downloaded the app- I do like the layout but it's a bit confusing! I will keep the app for awhile to give it a fair chance but I'm not keen
Bloglovin'- I started using this last week but I definitely explored it more this weekend. I added more blogs, utilised the categories and claimed my blog! I love that it's just a site no installation, I like the design and that you can favourite posts! Definitely my favourite!
(go ahead and Follow my blog with Bloglovin.)
Thanks Jenn!
Get Involved Mini Challenge~ The Book Wheel Blog.
I loved how Allison detailed so many different ways to give back and get involved through books and reading!
Unfortunately they were USA based so I couldn't use them but Allison was kind enough to point me towards a UK site :)
I did managed to 'get involved' though!
I have lots of old books that I've grown out of or had duplicates or didn't need. I really wanted to give them to my local Children's Hospital but they no longer take donations as they have a supplier. However they pointed me in the direction of CLIC Sargent! I drove over there and donated at least 60 books!
I always donate old clothes etc so I loved knowing my books would be given to sick children and continue to be read!
Thanks Allison! 
 

Goals!
Review Format.- I want to change it up a little bit! I still like the like/dislike format but I want to alter it a little bit! 
I have decided to reformat my reviews very slightly, adding in a new section which will probably be showcased in April!
Reviews.- I want to write up 4 reviews, draft up my next mini reviews post and draft up Netgalley reviews.
I didn't write up any reviews but I did do a lot of background work. I drafted up all of my blog notes into draft posts with covers, blurbs and notes.
Mini-challenges.- Take part in at least two. Bloglovin.- I've 'claimed' my blog but I want to play around with it a little.
^See above!
Clean Up- Draft posts, email inbox, blogger subscriptions etc.
I reduced my draft posts from 31 to 21! I always have my memes drafted and a upcoming reviews formatted so I will always have draft posts but I cleaned out ones which I'd either changed, decided not to post or duplicated.
Posts- Brainstorm some new ideas, draft up some posts!
I have a few ideas involving films, discussions etc!

How was your Bloggiesta?
Much Love!
Lettie
Xxx

Monday Round Up

One of my favourite memes hosted by the lovely Shelia over at Book Journey!

Last week was crazy! I've managed to get myself the perfect temporary job- well paid, conveniently close by and in a brand new sector! Yay! I've got two weeks until I start though so I've got time to celebrate!

Read!

I have a bad habit of buying bargain eBooks and letting them sit unread on my tablet..... So I made an effort to read a few!

Reading!

Finally picked this one up! I'm really enjoying it :)

What's Next!

I will pick this one up this week!

Upcoming Posts!
Bloggiesta Wrap Up- Find out how successful I was later today!
Stacking The Shelves- March edition.
Two Reviews- Undecided I drafted up a couple for Bloggiesta.

How's your week been?
Much Love!
Lettie
Xxx

Bloggiesta- March 2013!

In short, Bloggiesta is a blogging marathon revolving around ticking off those items on your to-do list and improving your blog while in the good company of other awesome bloggers doing the same thing. Hosted by  Suey from It’s All About Books and Danielle from There’s A Book.

Bloggiesta time again! I've got a bigger to do list this time round but the tasks are mainly housekeeping!

Goals!

• Review Format.- I want to change it up a little bit! I still like the like/dislike format but I want to alter it a little bit!
• Reviews.- I want to write up 4 reviews, draft up my next mini reviews post and draft up Netgalley reviews.
• Mini-challenges.- Take part in at least two
• Bloglovin.- I've 'claimed' my blog but I want to play around with it a little.
• Clean Up- Draft posts, email inbox, blogger subscriptions etc.
• Posts- Brainstorm some new ideas, draft up some posts!

Fingers crossed I make a dent in these tasks!
What are your goals?
Much Love!
Lettie
Xxx

Catching Jordan by Miranda Kenneally Read-a-Long

I saw Jude's Week 1 post and it inspired me to finally pick up Catching Jordan and take part.
However I kind of just read it straight through- Read-a-Long fail!
I did make notes for Week 1 and Week 2 though!

Week 1~ March 1–9: Pages 1–70.

First Impressions.

• I did not know women could play in American Football! I know every sport in the UK has a women's league but it never thought about American Football! The team is so cool, I love all the individual personalities especially Henry, he's my favourite!
• Jordan's parents. I love her Mum- I love how supportive she is of Jordan and how she makes sure she attends all the games. Not a fan of her dad obviously has an issue with women playing American Football despite the fact he must have inspired her!
• I'm already suspicious of Ty- there's just something about him!
• Jordan seems quite isolated despite all her friends but I like her so far!

 
Week 2~March 10–16: Pages 71–140.

Second Impressions.

• I really want Jordan to give Marie a chance, she could use some female friends! Even though she is clearly making a play for Henry!
• Ty- His secret was awful but not quite what I was expecting- interested to see how this plays out.
• Henry- He is so obviously in love with Jordan. I really hope Jordan goes for  him in spite of Ty's tragic life and good looks!
• Photo Shoot- Such an inappropriate photo shoot to feature a minor on school grounds! Heartbroken for Jordan as she clearly isn't being taken seriously.
• Jordan- I cannot believe how fast she moved with Ty! Wow! It seemed out of character and a massive leap. Makes me distrust Ty even more!

Midway Prediction!
Jordan and Ty will end up together even though I am in love with Henry!

Are you taking part in the Read-a-Long?
Did you love Catching Jordan too?
Much Love!
Lettie
Xxx

Monday Round Up!

One of my favourite memes hosted by the lovely Shelia over at Book Journey!

First of all I've finally got on the Bloglovin' train! So go ahead and Follow my blog with Bloglovin. I wanted to add another way to follow my blog especially due to the whole RSS demise!
Last week I had a film filled week, I saw:
Oz, the Great and Powerful which was a really clever storyline.
Wreck-it-Ralph- I love Disney and Wreck-it-Ralph was brilliant lots of fun!
Last but not least Jack The Giant Slayer, courtesy of Sky Rewards- I loved the interpretation and how surprising it was despite being based on a traditional story!
I'm tempted to do a little post on cinema trips just to add some diversity and because I love films- thoughts?

Last Week's Posts!
Teaser: The Edge of Always by J.A. Redmerski- A sneak peek of the sequel to The Edge of Never.Mini Reviews! Steph Campbell Edition!- 3½ hearts- 4 hearts! New review format please let me know what you think!Top Ten Spring TBR List! - Books I can't wait to read this spring!

Read!

Why did I put Catching Jordan off for so long? I couldn't put it down- I kind of skipped ahead of the Read-a-Long!
I loved Depths- I always love Steph Campbell and Liz Reinhardt and I loved Lengths so I knew this one would be fab!
Finally finished off Delirium - great concept!

Reading!

Just started this today!

What's Next!

Looking forward to reading this one! 

Upcoming Posts!

Reviews- Eleanor and Park by Rainbow Rowell, Make It Last by Bethany Lopez.

Catching Jordan by Miranda Kenneally Read-a-Long- First two weeks combined!

 

Have you seen any good films?

What have you been reading?

Let me know!

Much Love!

Lettie

Xxx

Teaser: The Edge of Always by J.A. Redmerski

He was taking the long road. She was taking the road to nowhere. It just so happened that they led to the same place…

Five months ago, Camryn and Andrew, both dealing with personal hardships, met on a Greyhound bus. They fell in love and proved that when two people are meant to be together, fate will find a way to make it happen. Now, in the highly anticipated sequel to The Edge of Never, Camryn and Andrew are pursuing their love for music and living life to the fullest as they always swore to do. But when tragedy befalls them, their relationship is put to the ultimate test. As Camryn tries to numb her pain, Andrew makes a bold decision: To get their life back on track, they’ll set out on another cross-country road trip. Together they find excitement, passion, adventure—and challenges they never could have anticipated.

I was so thrilled when I heard The Edge of Never was getting a sequel! Beautiful cover- love how it mirrors The Edge of Never cover. Check out the teaser and start counting down the days!

Camryn shrieks and I start laughing as we dash away from the cows and toward the car.
“Awww, shiiiit!” I yell when I step in a huge pile of it.
Camryn cackles with laughter and we both practically stumble the rest of the way through the field, me trying to scrape the shit off the bottom of my shoe while running at the same time and Camryn’s flip-flops getting caught on the ground trying to keep up with her feet.
“I can’t believe that just happened!” Camryn laughs as we finally make it back to the car. She arches her body over forward and props her hands on her knees, trying to catch her breath.
I’m out of breath, too, but I still relentlessly scrape the bottom of my shoe on the asphalt. “Dammit!” I say, rubbing my foot back and forth.
Camryn jumps up on the hood of the car, letting her legs hang over the front. “Can we finally say that we did it?” she asks with laughter in her voice.
I stand still finally and catch my breath. I look at her, at how beautiful and bright that smile of hers is and I say, “Yeah, babe, I think we can safely mark it off our list.”
“Good!” she says.
Then she points behind me. “Do it on the grass,” she says with one side of her mouth pinched into a hard line. “You’re just spreading it around doing it like that.”
I hop over into the grass and start rubbing my foot back and forth again. “Since when did you become an expert on shit?”
“Better watch your mouth,” she warns, getting into the driver’s seat.
“What are you going to do?” I taunt her.
She starts the Chevelle and revs the engine a few times pressing on the gas. There’s a cruel gleam in her eyes. She props her left arm across the top of the open window and next thing I know she’s driving slowly past me.
I give her the warning eye, but her grin just gets bigger.
“I know you won’t leave me here!” I shout as she goes past me.
Surely she wouldn’t….
She gets farther away and at first I call her bluff and just stand here, watching her get smaller and smaller…
Finally, I take off running after the car.

Cannot wait for this one! Camryn and Andrew are such a brilliant couple to read!
How about you?
Much Love!
Lettie
Xxx

Mini Reviews! Steph Campbell Edition!

Mini reviews~ Sometimes I love a book but I just can't do a full review or I just back log reviews!

*This is a new feature so the format isn't fully tested! I think I will post the cover, blurb, one thing I loved and one thing I didn't and a rating!*

This edition is dedicated to Steph Campbell- one of my favourite 'new' authors. Together with Liz Reinhardt she released her latest book, Depths, early this week and at 77p- how kind is that!

Delicate
Sydney Pierce has just met the guy of her dreams…just don’t tell her psycho boyfriend, Trevor.
With a gorgeous boyfriend, a thriving gymnastics career and a stellar academic record, anyone would assume that Sydney has it all. That's precisely what the seventeen-year-old perfectionist wants you to believe, and she works hard to keep up the pretense. Especially now that there are cameras following her for a documentary on Olympic hopefuls.
When Grant, the charming new student, disrupts her carefully crafted routine, the cracks beneath her perfect façade begin to rise to the surface and despite Trevor's objections to their friendship, she can't stay away from him.
As her connection to Grant pulls her closer to him, the once lighthearted relationship with Trevor takes an intense and dark turn, forcing her into a position in which not only her happiness, but her safety is at stake. Can Sydney learn to let go of everything she is clinging to in order to gain everything she has ever wanted, or will she realize her breaking point too late?

I had to read this one before Grounding Quinn as it's the prequel! As usual it was 77p!
What I Loved:
Quinn- Quinn definitely shone in this book! I enjoyed getting a sneak peek of her personality and her issues. It made me desperate to read Grounding Quinn.
Gymnastics- The inclusion of gymnastics was really different. Sydney's devotion, really set her apart from her friends and made her character much more engaging.The documentary, although intrusive, was a brilliant plot device!
Grant- I LOVED him! He was such a decent guy and so perceptive. I loved how he treated Sydney and how he built up a relationship with her.
What I Didn't Love as Much:
Depth- Delicate wasn't as 'deep' as Grounding Quinn despite the subject matter! It certainly suited the characters but I wanted more!

I loved the plot and the characters, it really set the scene for Grounding Quinn!

Lengths.

Nineteen-year-old Whit Conrad leaves her conservative Pennsylvania home for sunny California, looking for independence, a fresh start, and a place to stash her grief. She promptly finds a job at a tattoo parlour, a craptastic first apartment, and one friend—Ryan—who is a little less friend, a little more benefits.
Deo Beckett is a soulful surfer with a passion for tattoos and beautiful women. On the eve of his twenty-second birthday, he finds himself living with his grandfather, recently unemployed, and seriously adrift. He doesn’t know much about what he wants out of life, but he does know his current situation isn't cutting it.
When Deo meets Whit, she’s all sexy makeup and fierce, smart-ass fun. It doesn’t take him long to see past her tough shell. And when he gets a good look at what's under all the superficial stuff that usually gets his attention, it leaves Deo wondering if there might be more to life than living fast and free.
Too bad Whit has a past she doesn't plan on sharing—no matter how hot Deo is. She might want him, but she knows better than to let her guard down.
Deo falls for Whit, and falls hard. But everything about her, down to that mysterious tattoo and the way she thrashes in her sleep, tells him that the girl he loves is hiding something. And the more he pushes for answers, the more Whit pulls away.
Having your guard up is one thing, but are the lengths Whit goes to to protect her secret worth throwing away the second chance she has at happiness with Deo?

I was so excited when I found Lengths for 77p- at the time it was the only Steph Campbell book I hadn't read!
What I Loved:
Whit- I really felt for Whit- she made one rash and immature statement that most people in her situation would of and it led to the worst possible consequence! I admired how she had struck out on her own and worked so hard to make up for it. I loved how she 'tamed' Deo but she did frustrate me with her inability to let Deo in properly!
Side Characters- The side characters made this book so entertaining! Deo's Mum, Marigold, was such a hippie fun character! She was so good to Whit and I loved her relationship with Rocko. I liked how Rocko bonded with Whit and how good he was for Marigold. Deo's Grandad was the perfect old veteran- I loved how much he positively influenced Deo and all his sarcastic comments. I was also intrigued by Cohen, he was a really good friend to Deo seeing the best in him when he couldn't and giving him tough love when he needed it- Excited for his book!
What I Didn't Love as Much:

More- I just wanted to read more of Deo and Whit together! Maybe more of Whit reconnecting with her family. Maybe Deo's Dad to popping up! So glad that Cohen got his own book so I get more of him!

I have picked this one back up time and time again- it is such an engaging story and the characters are so full of life!

A Toast to Good Times

It’s the eve before Christmas Eve, and all that twenty-three-year-old Landry has on the agenda for the holiday is moping in the bar that he left everything behind to open.
And he’s got plenty to mope about.
He found his girlfriend treating herself to a little holiday delight with his best friend;
He hasn’t seen his family in over a year- since he alienated them all and ended up spending a night in jail;
And he may have just ruined the perfect, uncomplicated thing he had going with his platonic hot roommate, Mila.
Drinks all around!
But when he gets a call from his sister, Paisley, begging him to make it home for a huge announcement, he tosses aside his better judgement, (or, what’s left of it after that last round of drinks) and hops on the first train back home to Jersey.
But home for the holidays isn’t all mugs of cocoa and fireside chats with his family.
Landry left the people he loves the most high and dry when he fled to Boston and spent all of his inheritance…the inheritance money that he was supposed to use to help save his family’s floundering bar.
His dad will hardly look at him, his ex is maybe stalking him, his sister has dropped a bombshell on the family, and a flame from the past catches his eye. When Landry’s present and near past collide, it only further complicates things.
Landry thought he was leaving all of his problems behind when he left his family in New Jersey. But he comes home to find out that problems, like family, never go away. And sometimes facing the past with the help of someone who’s fearless about the future is the only way to move on.
Cheers?

I was so excited for another Campbell and Reinhardt collab! It didn't let me down!
What I Loved:
Viewpoint- I loved the strong male viewpoint. Landry was hilarious and gave real insight into his thoughts and feelings especially surrounding his family issues and Mila. Which was good it made sure he came across properly as some of his actions would have seemed awful from another point of view!
Relationship- I loved how the relationship developed slowly and realistically especially as Mila and Landry were in different places emotionally. I liked how their roles weren't rigid and they adapted and changed to accommodate each other.
Family- Landry's family was so detailed and layered! I liked the issues that Landry had with them,they weren't over the top or too much just sadly realistic. I loved how they started resolving their issues and getting back to their old relationships.
Toni- Perfect secondary character! I loved how brilliant her advice was and how even though she still had feelings for Landry she knew they didn't belong together. She was so good to rise above what had happened between them and give him honest advice.
What I Didn't Love as Much:
Boston- I wanted more of Landry and Mila in Boston together- just because I loved them together!
Heather/Tyler- What a selfish and inappropriate couple!

I really enjoyed this collaboration- it was fast paced and full of surprises, great read!

Beautiful Things Never Last.

It’s been a year since Quinn's life was changed for good by that Christmas kiss from Ben.
A year spent getting her life together. No more crazy parents looking over her shoulder, no more self-destructive behavior or secrets. Now, she and Ben share everything— including a tiny apartment, and a beautiful love.
Since he met Quinn, Ben’s life has been full of change. After finally standing up to his mom, he’s cut ties with his family and moved across the country with the only girl he’s ever wanted. But there’s something to be said for feeling needed, and he’s not sure that he is anymore.
When Quinn’s accepted into a month long culinary program in Italy, she’s ecstatic. But while she’s in a gorgeous country learning gnocchi and pesto, Ben’s blowing off her calls and pulling back.
But someone from Ben’s past walks back into his life, and he finally feels like he has a purpose again. Someone to take care of... Someone to save.
When Quinn returns, and the who's and why's of Ben's behaviour are revealed, how does she have any choice but to walk away from the only guy she's ever loved?
And how can Ben ever learn to let her go?

I was so desperate to pick this one up that I got an American friend to buy it for me!

What I Loved:

Carter and Shayna- Shayna was so different from Grounding Quinn and I really wanted to read more about how she  had progressed to such a committed relationship. I loved how Shayna and Quinn had begrudgingly become friends! Carter was so well developed in this book- I liked how he took Ben under his wing and how supportive he was of Quinn.

Quinn- Quinn's evolution! I was worried she would start becoming overly dependent on Ben but instead she became stronger in herself! I loved how she realised and accepted that Ben and her weren't perfect so mistakes would happen and how she learnt to move on from those mistakes. It was a brilliant character evolution.

What I Didn't Love as Much:
Sydney- I wanted to hear more about Sydney and her life! As Quinn's best friend I expected to read more about her!

Ben's Family- Ben's family were so over the top and inappropriate especially his mother. I mean Quinn's family had obvious and clear issues but Ben's family were unnecessarily awkward and rude. Quinn wasn't that awful that they needed to cut their only child out of her life and undermine him constantly!

I loved catching up with Quinn and Ben and seeing how much they had grown as characters as well as seeing more of Carter and Shayna!

I love Steph Campbell's books- they never disappoint!

Have you read Steph Campbell?

What do you think of these Mini reviews?

Much Love!

Lettie

Xxx

Top Ten Tuesday- Spring TBR List!

Top Ten Tuesday is hosted by: The Broke and the Bookish.

This week's topic: Top Ten Books On My Spring 2013 TBR list!

 

It's not very spring like here in the UK atm- I got snowed on yesterday! However it is time for my Spring TBR list! So excited for all the new releases.

 

The Elite by Kiera Cass

In America Singer’s world, a bride is chosen for the prince through an elaborate televised competition. In the second book of the Selection series, America is one of only six girls left in the running. But is it Prince Maxon—and life as the queen—she wants? Or is it Aspen, her first love?

Status: To Be Published 23rd April 2013

I love The Selection and cannot wait to read The Elite!

 

Reckless by S.C Stephens

Can love survive when life gets Reckless?
When the band hits it big, Kiera and Kellan must ask themselves: Can their love for each other survive the constant pressures of superstardom? The friendships they've formed, the new family they've found, and the history they've forged will all play a part in helping them navigate the turbulent waters of the band's exploding popularity. A greedy executive hell-bent on success, a declining pop star looking for an edge, and a media circus that twists lies into truths are just some of the obstacles the lovers will have to overcome if they are going to remain together. Fame comes with a price-but will it cost Kiera and Kellan everything?

Status: To Be Published April 2013....

I have loved this series for years!- so sad it's been delayed in the UK! I've already reserved it at my library so I'm ready whenever it finally arrives!

 

Crush by Nicole Williams

A football fantasy. A giant diamond. The modern-day Romeo and Juliet are taking their relationship to the next level. . . .
Jude and Lucy are happily engaged, but that doesn't mean life's a bed of roses.
Once again, the hottest couple around is torn apart, this time by football training and a summer job. Now it's Jude with the trust issues.
Will Lucy's life-changing news bring them back together or end their relationship for good? Can love triumph forever?

Status: To Be Published 23rd April 2013!

I really enjoy the intensity of Lucy and Jude in Crash and Clash- not keen on the cover change though! Lucky I have them as ebooks :)

 

Wrecked by Alyssa Rose Ivy.

When your past catches up, it's time to stop running.
Jake Mathews messed up yet again— but this time his misstep lands him in the hospital. He wakes up to find the girl of his dreams and the memory of having his deepest secret revealed.
Emily Taylor needs a break. She's been working double shifts as a nurse just to pay the bills while trying to heal a broken heart. The last thing she needs is to fall for a patient.
Strapped with community service and the knowledge that he's disappointed everyone in his life, Jake is determined not to let Emily slip through his fingers. Emily wants Jake, but can she really open herself up to heartache again?

Status: To Be Published April 2013....

I've been awaiting this release since my Clayton Falls day in December!

 

Abbi Glines

I know a sequel to While It Lasts was planned for a Spring release which would automatically be on my TBR! I'm also intrigued by Twisted Perfection which sounds like I'd love it! Either way Abbi is on my TBR!

 

Crossing The Line by Katie McGarry

Lila McCormick, Echo's best friend from Pushing the Limits, first met Lincoln Turner when tragedy struck both their lives. But she never expected their surprise encounter would lead to two years of exchanging letters—or that she’d fall for the boy she’s only seen once. Their relationship is a secret, but Lila feels closer to Lincoln than anyone else. Until she finds out that he lied to her about the one thing she depended on him for the most.
Hurting Lila is the last thing Lincoln wanted. For two years, her letters have been the only thing getting him through the day. Admitting his feelings would cross a line he’s never dared breach before. But Lincoln will do whatever it takes to fix his mistakes, earn Lila’s forgiveness—and finally win a chance to be with the girl he loves.

Status: To Be Published 1st April 2013!

I really like Katie McGarry's writing style and I loved Lila in Pushing the Limits so I'm pleased she gets her own novella!

 

Daughter of The Flames by Zoe Marriott

What if your deadliest enemy were the only one who could save you?
Inside an ancient temple in the mountains, fifteen-year-old Zira trains in the martial arts to become a warrior priestess who can defend the faith of the Ruan people. Bearing a scar on her face from the fire that killed her parents, the orphaned Zira is taught to distrust the occupying Sedornes. Terror strikes when the forces of the tyrannical Sedorne king destroy the only home she knows. To survive, Zira must unravel the secrets of her identity, decide her people’s fate — and accept her growing feelings for a man who should be her enemy.

Status: Pride of place on my bookshelf for too long!

I just need to pick this one up!

 

The Unbecoming of Mara Dyer by Michelle Hodkin.

Mara Dyer doesn’t think life can get any stranger than waking up in a hospital with no memory of how she got there.
It can.
She believes there must be more to the accident she can’t remember that killed her friends and left her mysteriously unharmed.
There is.
She doesn’t believe that after everything she’s been through, she can fall in love.
She’s wrong.

Status: Added to my Bookshelf in January!

I've been desperate to read this one and now the second book is available!

 

Invisibility by Andrea Cremer and David Levithan.

Stephen has been invisible for practically his whole life — because of a curse his grandfather, a powerful cursecaster, bestowed on Stephen’s mother before Stephen was born. So when Elizabeth moves to Stephen’s NYC apartment building from Minnesota, no one is more surprised than he is that she can see him. A budding romance ensues, and when Stephen confides in Elizabeth about his predicament, the two of them decide to dive headfirst into the secret world of cursecasters and spellseekers to figure out a way to break the curse. But things don’t go as planned, especially when Stephen’s grandfather arrives in town, taking his anger out on everyone he sees. In the end, Elizabeth and Stephen must decide how big of a sacrifice they’re willing to make for Stephen to become visible — because the answer could mean the difference between life and death. At least for Elizabeth.

Status: 7th May 2013!

I've had this on my TBR list for ages- looking forward to this one!

 

ArchEnemy by Frank Beddor

 

 Imagine this...
The power of imagination has been lost!
Now it's all about the artillery as AD52s, crystal shooters, spikejack tumblers, and orb cannons are unleashed in a war of weapons and brute force.
As Alyss searches wildly for the solution to the disaster that has engulfed her queendom, Arch declares himself King of Wonderland. The moment is desperate enough for Alyss to travel back to London for answers, where Arch's assassins are threatening Alice Liddell and her family. But after coming to the Liddells' assistance, Alyss discovers herself trapped in a conundrum of evaporating puddles. The shimmering portals that exist to transport her home through the Pool of Tears are disappearing!
What is happening in Wonderland? Deep within the Valley of Mushroom the Caterpillar Oracles issue this prophecy: "Action shall be taken to ensure the safety of the Heart Crystal. For Everqueen." But who is Everqueen?

Status: Borrowed from a friend!

I enjoy the Looking Glass Wars but I always need a nudge to pick up the next book!

 

Excited for any of these?

What's on your Spring TBR?

Much Love!

Lettie

Xxx