*Copy provided by the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review*
'Fairytale Beginnings' is Holly Martin's 8th novel and one I've been eager to read ever since I found out she was writing it. Following Holly on twitter is certainly one great joy, she's one of the nicest and coolest people on twitter, always ready to make you laugh. She's also one of the most respected authors which I follow, well known for her big heart and genuine relationship with book bloggers. Having all this said, no wonder I'm looking forward to each of her releases. Beside writing contemporary romance, she's also published two fantasy novels and two more steamy, adult novels under the pen name Amelia Thorn. It's obvious Holly is multi talented and these transitions in genres come very easy to her.
'Fairytale Beginnings' is definitely a cute story. I even tweeted to Holly saying I want to adopt her (age is just a number, right?) because lately I've been feeling kind of down and was in terrible need of some good laughs. And yes, there were some memorable, LOL moments in this novel and I had the feeling I'll end up competely loving it. But as you can see from my rating, some things went wrong. Don't worry, I'll explain it though, trying to write the most balanced and honest review I can, because while this book had it flaws, it certainly had some unique moments too.
The book really read like a fairytale, just like the title suggests. But a very modern fairytale with some adult content, so a fair warning to those who're bit prudish. It's the story of Milly who's off to Clover Castle to estimate it's value and origins and see if her company is willing to help the Lord bring back the castle to all it's glory, like it has seen in the old days. She's very good and efficient worker, never lazy or too proud to get her hands dirty. She's definitely excited to the start of her research, but what she wasn't ready for it to discover the owner is so young and damn hot. Scorching hot as a matter of fact! Haunted by ghosts, family secrets and now, this awesome, hot guy, will Milly stick to being professional or give in to Castle's beauty and charm?
As I said in my review previously, there were some amazing moments which I read with great pleasure, and there were some that left me puzzled, not sure what to make out of them. The first half of the book was for me just amazing. I liked Milly so much, I honestly thought she's the most awesome romance heroine. My opinion didn't change even in the second half, but there were some weird moments I was kind of surprised with her reactions. Still, Milly is adorable, though to be completely honest, at times she did act too childish even though she's 28/29 years old. Nothing wrong in being childish, especially when you feel those butterflies in your stomach, however it seemed to me she gave in too early and easily despite saying she 'was burned' in life before. It did feel a bit surreal to me, but it could be me and my 36 years who look on things from different perspective than younger population. Speaking of age, Cameron Heartstone, the owner of the Castle and fameous writer is 34 and yet he too seems childish at times. They've both been very hurt in the past in their relationships, yet they sure let things happen rather soon.
Believe it or not, I do believe in love at first sight and Milly's and Cameron's chemistry is undeniable. It's like..electricity, so raw and powerful. This is what I enjoyed the most, their chemistry which made me feel of fuzzy inside. However, some things felt a bit rushed and I wish Holly made her characters take things more slowly. But their banters, they were super cute and hilarious. Despite knowing each other for such a short time, Milly and Cameron really enjoy each other's company and are definitely comfortable around each other. This might seem weird to some readers, however I didn't mind the whole 'grabbing boob and talking about willies' all in a span of just few short days. But what I did mind was that weird ceremony they hold each year during Summer Solstice. I won't tell you why, you'll have to read it for yourself. I'm no prude, but I didn't expect to find these parts in a book like this. It just seemed wrong for this story, you know. At least, that's what I think.
But the romance part was amazing! I do believe this is Holly Martin's strongest feat as a writer, she really knows how to deliver a hot, steamy and mind blowing sex scene without going very explicit. Everything felt natural and tasteful. However, my biggest problem and main reason for the rating is the mystery element which was a bit disappointing. Despite simply flying through this book, I wasn't really hooked on the history and origins of the Castle or the legends of the Heartstone family. Some parts felt dragging and others were simply rushed, and I won't lie, I was kind of lost at times thinking where the story might go. Uncle Boris' treasure, the secret coves, the Grey Lady, it all seems blurry to me, even moments after finishing this book. But the romance part is just amazing! Mind blowing! I really enjoyed those parts and think Holly Martin shows her amazing talent in these very scenes.
I'm glad I read it and I certainly enjoyed the romance. I was never a Disney princess, always were more of a tomboy, but I certainly enjoyed being in this fairytale. It is definitely an easy read you'll devour in one or two sittings.
*Copy provided by the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review*
'Fairytale Beginnings' is Holly Martin's 8th novel and one I've been eager to read ever since I found out she was writing it. Following Holly on twitter is certainly one great joy, she's one of the nicest and coolest people on twitter, always ready to make you laugh. She's also one of the most respected authors which I follow, well known for her big heart and genuine relationship with book bloggers. Having all this said, no wonder I'm looking forward to each of her releases. Beside writing contemporary romance, she's also published two fantasy novels and two more steamy, adult novels under the pen name Amelia Thorn. It's obvious Holly is multi talented and these transitions in genres come very easy to her.
'Fairytale Beginnings' is definitely a cute story. I even tweeted to Holly saying I want to adopt her (age is just a number, right?) because lately I've been feeling kind of down and was in terrible need of some good laughs. And yes, there were some memorable, LOL moments in this novel and I had the feeling I'll end up competely loving it. But as you can see from my rating, some things went wrong. Don't worry, I'll explain it though, trying to write the most balanced and honest review I can, because while this book had it flaws, it certainly had some unique moments too.
The book really read like a fairytale, just like the title suggests. But a very modern fairytale with some adult content, so a fair warning to those who're bit prudish. It's the story of Milly who's off to Clover Castle to estimate it's value and origins and see if her company is willing to help the Lord bring back the castle to all it's glory, like it has seen in the old days. She's very good and efficient worker, never lazy or too proud to get her hands dirty. She's definitely excited to the start of her research, but what she wasn't ready for it to discover the owner is so young and damn hot. Scorching hot as a matter of fact! Haunted by ghosts, family secrets and now, this awesome, hot guy, will Milly stick to being professional or give in to Castle's beauty and charm?
As I said in my review previously, there were some amazing moments which I read with great pleasure, and there were some that left me puzzled, not sure what to make out of them. The first half of the book was for me just amazing. I liked Milly so much, I honestly thought she's the most awesome romance heroine. My opinion didn't change even in the second half, but there were some weird moments I was kind of surprised with her reactions. Still, Milly is adorable, though to be completely honest, at times she did act too childish even though she's 28/29 years old. Nothing wrong in being childish, especially when you feel those butterflies in your stomach, however it seemed to me she gave in too early and easily despite saying she 'was burned' in life before. It did feel a bit surreal to me, but it could be me and my 36 years who look on things from different perspective than younger population. Speaking of age, Cameron Heartstone, the owner of the Castle and fameous writer is 34 and yet he too seems childish at times. They've both been very hurt in the past in their relationships, yet they sure let things happen rather soon.
Believe it or not, I do believe in love at first sight and Milly's and Cameron's chemistry is undeniable. It's like..electricity, so raw and powerful. This is what I enjoyed the most, their chemistry which made me feel of fuzzy inside. However, some things felt a bit rushed and I wish Holly made her characters take things more slowly. But their banters, they were super cute and hilarious. Despite knowing each other for such a short time, Milly and Cameron really enjoy each other's company and are definitely comfortable around each other. This might seem weird to some readers, however I didn't mind the whole 'grabbing boob and talking about willies' all in a span of just few short days. But what I did mind was that weird ceremony they hold each year during Summer Solstice. I won't tell you why, you'll have to read it for yourself. I'm no prude, but I didn't expect to find these parts in a book like this. It just seemed wrong for this story, you know. At least, that's what I think.
But the romance part was amazing! I do believe this is Holly Martin's strongest feat as a writer, she really knows how to deliver a hot, steamy and mind blowing sex scene without going very explicit. Everything felt natural and tasteful. However, my biggest problem and main reason for the rating is the mystery element which was a bit disappointing. Despite simply flying through this book, I wasn't really hooked on the history and origins of the Castle or the legends of the Heartstone family. Some parts felt dragging and others were simply rushed, and I won't lie, I was kind of lost at times thinking where the story might go. Uncle Boris' treasure, the secret coves, the Grey Lady, it all seems blurry to me, even moments after finishing this book. But the romance part is just amazing! Mind blowing! I really enjoyed those parts and think Holly Martin shows her amazing talent in these very scenes.
I'm glad I read it and I certainly enjoyed the romance. I was never a Disney princess, always were more of a tomboy, but I certainly enjoyed being in this fairytale. It is definitely an easy read you'll devour in one or two sittings....more
*Copy provided by the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review*
'This whole industry is built on s Originally posted on This Chick Reads
*Copy provided by the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review*
'This whole industry is built on scandalous lies, so what's new?'
News is I've read a bonkbuster and I liked it, I liked it a lot! After years of avoiding books with explicit sex scenes I actually read a bonkbuster and I enjoyed every second of it. Obviously I don't have a problem with contemporary romance with lots of sex in it, however I've been reading the wrong books thinking all bonkbusters are crap. But Nigel May proved me wrong, he actually proved to me I can enjoy a hot, steamy sex scene as long as it's good written. And seriously, Mr May can write a bloody damn good sex scene (fair warning though, bit kinky at times)! I see the whole 'Grey' craze and the buzz around EL James's books and get sick at the thought of so many people thinking what she writes is steamy sex. If you don't believe me, you should try this book and see what I'm talking about. Mr May can teach EL James how to write a good sex scene! He bloody owns it!
But in 'Scandalous Lies' there's a good dose of mystery too. In fact, despite the amount of sex in this book, it's the mystery element that drives the plot. A famous couple from UK is missing, last time seen in Hell's Canyon. No one knows the reasons for their disappearance, however they do know Mitzi and Foster are not the suicidal type or type of people someone would hate that much to kill them. The investigations stop soon and seems police has no answers, but Mitzi's friends are still not giving up on her, looking for ways to find her, especially after it was announced that Foster's body was found. They don't believe Mitzi is capable of killing Foster, as she was so in love with the guy.
'Scandalous Lies' introduces us to so many characters and their stories, I admit sometimes I had trouble in keeping track and even wondered what do this characters have in common with Mitzi and her disappearance. However, by the end of the book everything falls into its place and makes perfect sense, giving us the closure we're after.
You know how things are with the celebrities, right? There's a certain cliche in these kind of books, but honestly I don't mind. I do find these books (no matter if they are fiction or memoirs) really fascinating. I'm transported to a world so different from my own, and connecting with this characters is really challenging. But that's what makes these celebrity books full of glamour so fun and special for me.
Sex, scandal, rivalry, filthy rich people, divas, mystery, drama, this book has it all. It's the perfect beach read you will not be able to put down. The only reason why I'm not giving it 5* is the fact that the end seemed bit rushed and with so many characters involved I was lost at times. But still, I was impressed with the mystery element and I couldn't predicted the ending at all.
This is the 3rd book by Mr May, his previous being 'Trinity' and 'Addicted' and seems that some of the characters in 'Scandalous Lies' can also be found in his previous books. I was thrilled to found out about this as I'm definitely looking forward to reading more about Evie, Victoria, Georgia, Nova, Charlie, etc.
Speaking of characters, I loved Georgia and how she doesn't give up on finding her friend. I think I would be slightly more convinced in their genuine friendship if Mr May included more scenes from Georgia and Mitzi's history. But I was still rather pleased with both of these characters, though they are so diverse. I was surprised to find that I liked even Victoria, who's the weakest of them all, and even develops a drug addiction. As I woman, I could feel her pain and fear over losing her family, though I couldn't approve of the way she handles things. But there was a certain balance between the characters, some were striving for perfection and some are too flawed, but I guess everything is possible in the world of stars.
Overall this is a fantastic, easy, light read perfect for relaxing on this heat. Make sure you have the air con on max, because if the heat outside doesn't make you melt, Mr May's writing sure will. I'll definitely be checking out Mr May's other books and will certainly be on a watch out for his next.
*Copy provided by the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review*
'This whole industry is built on scandalous lies, so what's new?'
News is I've read a bonkbuster and I liked it, I liked it a lot! After years of avoiding books with explicit sex scenes I actually read a bonkbuster and I enjoyed every second of it. Obviously I don't have a problem with contemporary romance with lots of sex in it, however I've been reading the wrong books thinking all bonkbusters are crap. But Nigel May proved me wrong, he actually proved to me I can enjoy a hot, steamy sex scene as long as it's good written. And seriously, Mr May can write a bloody damn good sex scene (fair warning though, bit kinky at times)! I see the whole 'Grey' craze and the buzz around EL James's books and get sick at the thought of so many people thinking what she writes is steamy sex. If you don't believe me, you should try this book and see what I'm talking about. Mr May can teach EL James how to write a good sex scene! He bloody owns it!
But in 'Scandalous Lies' there's a good dose of mystery too. In fact, despite the amount of sex in this book, it's the mystery element that drives the plot. A famous couple from UK is missing, last time seen in Hell's Canyon. No one knows the reasons for their disappearance, however they do know Mitzi and Foster are not the suicidal type or type of people someone would hate that much to kill them. The investigations stop soon and seems police has no answers, but Mitzi's friends are still not giving up on her, looking for ways to find her, especially after it was announced that Foster's body was found. They don't believe Mitzi is capable of killing Foster, as she was so in love with the guy.
'Scandalous Lies' introduces us to so many characters and their stories, I admit sometimes I had trouble in keeping track and even wondered what do this characters have in common with Mitzi and her disappearance. However, by the end of the book everything falls into its place and makes perfect sense, giving us the closure we're after.
You know how things are with the celebrities, right? There's a certain cliche in these kind of books, but honestly I don't mind. I do find these books (no matter if they are fiction or memoirs) really fascinating. I'm transported to a world so different from my own, and connecting with this characters is really challenging. But that's what makes these celebrity books full of glamour so fun and special for me.
Sex, scandal, rivalry, filthy rich people, divas, mystery, drama, this book has it all. It's the perfect beach read you will not be able to put down. The only reason why I'm not giving it 5* is the fact that the end seemed bit rushed and with so many characters involved I was lost at times. But still, I was impressed with the mystery element and I couldn't predicted the ending at all.
This is the 3rd book by Mr May, his previous being 'Trinity' and 'Addicted' and seems that some of the characters in 'Scandalous Lies' can also be found in his previous books. I was thrilled to found out about this as I'm definitely looking forward to reading more about Evie, Victoria, Georgia, Nova, Charlie, etc.
Speaking of characters, I loved Georgia and how she doesn't give up on finding her friend. I think I would be slightly more convinced in their genuine friendship if Mr May included more scenes from Georgia and Mitzi's history. But I was still rather pleased with both of these characters, though they are so diverse. I was surprised to find that I liked even Victoria, who's the weakest of them all, and even develops a drug addiction. As I woman, I could feel her pain and fear over losing her family, though I couldn't approve of the way she handles things. But there was a certain balance between the characters, some were striving for perfection and some are too flawed, but I guess everything is possible in the world of stars.
Overall this is a fantastic, easy, light read perfect for relaxing on this heat. Make sure you have the air con on max, because if the heat outside doesn't make you melt, Mr May's writing sure will. I'll definitely be checking out Mr May's other books and will certainly be on a watch out for his next....more
*Copy provided by the author in exchange for an honest review*
'A Christmas Hideaway' is the first book by Emily H Originally posted on This Chick Reads
*Copy provided by the author in exchange for an honest review*
'A Christmas Hideaway' is the first book by Emily Harvale I've read, but it certainly won't be my last one. If it wasn't for my friend Rachel, I don't believe I'd catch it on my radar as there are just SO MANY books out there, but thankfully I listen to my friends' recommendations and spotted Emily's books just in time for the most magical time of the year, Christmas!
Yes, this is a Christmas book and not only that, it's a warm and magical romance story that truly put me in the Christmas spirit. Starting from September or October each year and up till Christmas, I read mostly festive reads, and before reading Emily's book I had read quite some and some very good ones too. However, this is the book that completely got me feeling festive, and I do believe even if you're not reading it for Christmas, the lovely descriptions and snowy setting will instantly put you in that mood. Yes, there are many books marketed as Christmas reads, but not that many who're able to do that.
'A Christmas Hideaway' is a charming romance story about Holly, who's not really looking forward to Christmas as her ex-boyfriend who hooked up with her best friend, is coming back home. The break up wasn't the nicest or most fair, a simple note ending a long relationship never is. And the fact he dumped her for her best friend, only adds to the disappointment. However, this Christmas might just be one of the best Holly's ever had, with Gabriel entering her life. Gabriel is a writer who's staying in one of the cottages owned by Holly's family. However, he's not like the other guests staying, coming to Hideaway for the snow and family time. During his stay he hopes he'll get some peace, work on his novel and avoid his ex-girlfriend, which proves to be harder than he thinks as she's also his agent. Both Holly and Gabriel have their reasons to be everything but cheery this Christmas, but at the same time the fact they'd been a bit hurt in the past brings them closer.
'A Christmas Hideaway' is a delightful read and while there are no twists and shocking surprises, it's a book with a strong feel-good factor. You know what they say, it's not about the destination, but about the journey. Well, that applies perfectly for this novel, it's all about the writing which will make you feel all warm and fuzzy inside.
The side characters are amazing too especially Holly's sister who's kind of like me. Fun loving, upfront, always says things as they are. Not as tactful as Holly, but she's the sassy one, like little ball of energy. I really wish to see more of her, and as this is the first in a brand new series, I hope my wish will come true and the next Hideaway Down novel will be about her.
Overall, I'm really happy I read this book and during Christmas at that, and if you're anything like me and can read festive books all year round, I definitely recommend it. A quick, charming read with a strong feel-good factor, perfect for curling up on this cold weather. ...more
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