Review: "Of Dreams and Rust" (Of Metal and Wishes #2) by Sarah Fine


Of Dreams and Rust by Sarah Fine
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Summaryfrom GoodReads


War erupts in this bittersweet sequel to "Of Metal and Wishes", inspired by The Phantom of the Opera and called “relentlessly engrossing” by The Romantic Times.

In the year since the collapse of the slaughterhouse where Wen worked as her father’s medical assistant, she’s held all her secrets close. She works in the clinic at the weapons factory and sneaks away to nurse Bo, once the Ghost, now a boy determined to transform himself into a living machine. Their strange, fragile friendship soothes some of the ache of missing Melik, the strong-willed Noor who walked away from Wen all those months ago—but it can’t quell her fears for him.

The Noor are waging a rebellion in the west. When she overhears plans to crush Melik’s people with the powerful war machines created at the factory, Wen makes the painful decision to leave behind all she has known—including Bo—to warn them. But the farther she journeys into the warzone, the more confusing things become. A year of brutality seems to have changed Melik, and Wen has a decision to make about him and his people: How much is she willing to sacrifice to save them from complete annihilation?





BUY ON AMAZON (click the covers) OF metal and wishes series


 



Guards from the Shadowlands series


 





 REVIEW


Of the most bittersweet conclusions in the books I've read this year, "Of Dreams and Rust" earns the prize!

Let me remind you that this series is a retelling of "The Phantom of the Opera" but in an Asian, steampunk background.






(Ohhh Erik....)


Not only the heroine Wen is an Asian, she also does her best to find her own place in a war ridden world, even come to terms with her feelings for Melik and Bo.

After the events of the first book, Wen decides to find Melik in order to warn him and his people about a war plan which will threaten everyone.

In the whole book we see the struggle and the feelings between Wen and Melik who try to reconnect with each other and having a war looming above them. Bo offers so much help, despite his appearance, and his character tended to wreck me more than the others.

The ending was indeed an open one but with more solid bases than the ending of the first book. The story did end, but Wen and her friends will have to deal more in the future, fighting discrimination and the opposing forces. I loved every turning page of this one and I recommend it to all of you!










TO ALL LOVERS OF THE PHANTOM OF THE OPERA

A very talented DeviantArt artist has created a comic in which Erik and the Goblin King decide to become roommates. Later other known characters join and the laughs errupt. Follow the link and make sure to offer your support!

Here's an example:








About the author:


When I'm not writing, I'm psychologizing (really, I even get a paycheck for it). Sometimes I do both at the same time. The results are unpredictable.

To receive updates on new releases, sales, and bonus material, go to http://sarahfinebooks.com/ and click at the top of the page to sign up for the newsletter.

For extra information about the Guards of the Shadowlands series, including Malachi's personal journal entries, or to ask a question: http://guardsoftheshadowlands.tumblr....

For information about the inspirations for Of Metal and Wishes: http://www.pinterest.com/sarahfineboo...




*IMPORTANT NOTE* My computer decided to have a heart attack (on his battery), so my posts will be a little late, or very early depending on the time zone you are in. I apologise and I hope to have my pc fixed soon! :)

Feature and Follow #268

Welcome to the Feature & Follow


Gain new followers and make new friends with the Book Blogger Feature & Follow! If this is your first time here, welcome! You are about to make some new friends and gain new followers -- but you have to know -- the point of this hop is to follow other bloggers also. I follow you, you follow me.

The Feature & Follow is hosted by TWO hosts, Parajunkee of Parajunkee's View and Alison of Alison Can Read. Each host will have their own Feature Blog and this way it'll allow me and them to show off more new blogs!

How does this work? First you leave your name here on this post, (using the linky tools -- keep scrolling!) then you create a post on your own blog that links back to this post (easiest way is to just grab the code at the host blogs and put it in your post) and then you visit as many blogs as you can and tell them "hi" in their comments (on the post that has the #FF image). You follow them, they follow you. Win. Win. Just make sure to follow back if someone follows you!

 

 

                            Question of the Week:

 

Share a random quote from the book you are currently reading.- Suggested by Journey Through Fiction

 

                                                    My answer:

 

 Today's quote comes from "The Eternity Cure" by Julie Kagawa. This is the second book of her series "Immortal Rules" and the first one I am currently reading from this author!



“I don't believe in fate," he said carefully, "but... I do believe everything happens for a reason. That there is some plan, some meaning to this darkness we live in.”

 This one is my favorite! And I really believe it too!

 

 

 


Now for the Follow Fun!


                                           FOLLOW ME ON GFC ON YOUR LEFT!!

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Alison Can Read

HAPPY FRIDAY!

 

 

 

 

Release Week Blitz+Giveaway: "Breakout" (The Dred Chronicles #3) by Ann Aguirre

BREAKOUT - RWB -banner

 

 

We are absolutely thrilled to bring you the Release Week Blitz for Ann Aguirre's BREAKOUT! BREAKOUT is an Adult Romantic Science Fiction novel set in the Jax Universe and is a part of Ann Aguirre’s Dred Chronicles, published through Ace. Grab your copy of BREAKOUT today!

 

  BREAKOUT - cover


    BREAKOUT Synopsis: All hell is breaking loose in the edge-of-your-seat follow-up to Havoc and Perdition fromNew York Times bestselling author Ann Aguirre…
The prison ship Perdition has become a post-battle charnel house with only a handful of Dred’s soldiers still standing and now being hunted by Silence’s trained tongueless assassins. Forging an uneasy alliance with mercenary commander Vost—who is their only chance at escape—the Dread Queen will do whatever it takes to end her life sentence on Perdition and keep the survivors alive long enough to cobble together a transport capable of getting them off station.

If Dred and her crew can win the deadly game of cat and mouse, the payoff is not only life but freedom—a prize sweeter than their wildest dreams. Yet the sadistic Silence would rather destroy Perdition than let a single soul slip from her grasp…  

Praise for the Dred Chronicles: "There's so much action, so much adventure, and more than that, it's great writing."—USA Today

"SiranthaJax fans may be intrigued to see what befell Jael after his ill-considered actions there, and new lead Dred is a strong linchpin for a promising new series."—Publishers Weekly

"Spectacularly and spell-bindingly perfect with high octane action that keeps you on the edge of your seat and a romance that is surprisingly sweet and tender in a harsh and unforiving setting...This is honestly one of the best SF romance series I have read." —Book Pushers



Amazon ** Barnes and Noble ** BAM ** Indiebound ** Vroman’s ** Book Depository ** iBooks

 

EXCREPT

They didn’t speak until they had put a fair amount of distance behind them, then Dred signaled her desire to pause by tapping his ankle. He couldn’t turn fully because the ducts had narrowed, but he glanced over his shoulder.
“You all right?”
“Just . . . spooked.” The somber tone told him he hadn’t been alone in what he felt, watching those crazy, tongue-less bastards.
“It’s different now,” he said.
“With what she did to Queensland . . . she seems larger than life. I’ve been afraid before, but . . . not quite like this.”
The words were barely a whisper, and they roused an answering prickle of gooseflesh on his arms.
“I know. There’s run-of-the-mill evil, like Priest and Mungo. And then there’s Silence.”
“It’s like she can do worse than kill me. Rationally, I know that’s not true—”
“But it’s uncanny the way she’s last one still standing, moving through the carnage.” He didn’t say it out loud, but he thought, Like Death itself.
Dred nodded. “I’m still here, too, but I’m not the Dread Queen anymore.”
“If it’s any consolation, I don’t miss her.”
“Me either,” she whispered.
There was no space to touch her as he wanted to, and it wasn’t the time anyway, so Jael continued on. They slid out of the ducts near the closet, but when he opened it, there were no droids plugged in. He choked out a curse. It was impossible to predict when a bot would come back, and it was dangerous to wait out in the open. They desperately needed some intel about how many men Silence had left, how often they patrolled, and where, but with manpower as scarce as it had become on their end, recon had to wait.
“Back up?” Dred whispered.
He nodded. This time, they found a way in that gave them vantage over their target, so they’d know when a bot returned. He’d just finished fitting the vent panel in place behind them when he heard the familiar, shuffling sound of Silence’s men. From her expression, Dred registered it, too, and she practically stopped breathing. The fact that her killers were roving freely must signify that she believed herself the undisputed ruler of Perdition.
When they rounded the corner and came into sight, he stifled a surprised sound. This group was huge, compared to the usual numbers, ten this time, and horror jolted through him like lightning when he realized they were carried a human-sized bundle. They’d wrapped their captive in dark fabric, so he couldn’t tell anything about the person, but the worst part was, he or she was still moving, thrashing against his bonds.
Who is that? And why the hell would Silence want someone taken alive?

 

And don’t miss the previous books in the Dred Chronicles!

Perdition1

  PERDITION

 WELCOME TO HELL

The prison ship Perdition, a floating city where the Conglomerate’s most dangerous criminals are confined for life, orbits endlessly around a barren asteroid.

Life inside is even more bleak. Hailed as the Dread Queen, inmate Dresdemona “Dred” Devos controls one of Perdition’s six territories, bordered on both sides by would-be kings eager to challenge her claim. Keeping them at bay requires constant vigilance, as well as a steady influx of new recruits to replace the fallen. Survival is a constant battle, and death is the only escape.

Of the newest convicts, only one is worth Dred’s attention. The mercenary Jael, with his deadly gaze and attitude, may be the most dangerous criminal onboard. His combat skill could give her the edge she needs, if he doesn’t betray her first. Unfortunately, that’s what he does best. Winning Jael’s allegiance will be a challenge, but failure could be worse than death…

 

 



HAVOC

HAVOC

The Conglomerate’s most dangerous convicts have made the prison ship Perdition their home. And they will defend it…

Perdition is under siege. Mercenaries have boarded the station with orders to take control of the facility—and execute the prisoners. Their commander is offering full pardons to the first five inmates willing to help the mercs complete their mission.

Dresdemona “Dred” Devos hasn’t survived hard time just to surrender to the Conglomerate’s armored thugs. Leading a ragtag army of inmates, Dred and her champion, Jael, wage a bloody guerilla war of chaos and carnage against impossible odds. But no matter how dire the outlook, the Dread Queen never backs down…
 

 

 

 

Author Photo      About Ann Aguirre: Ann Aguirre is a New York Times & USA Today bestselling author and RITA winner with a degree in English Literature; before she began writing full time, she was a clown, a clerk, a voice actress, and a savior of stray kittens, not necessarily in that order. She grew up in a yellow house across from a cornfield, but now she lives in sunny Mexico with her husband, children, and various pets. Ann likes books, emo music, action movies, and she writes all kinds of genre fiction for adults and teens, published with Harlequin, Macmillan, and Penguin, among others.    



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InkSlinger Blogger Final
 

Review: "Shadow Study" (Soulfinders #1, Study #4) by Maria V. Snyder


Shadow Study by Maria V. Snyder
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Summary from GoodReads

Once, only her own life hung in the balance…

When Yelena was a poison taster, her life was simpler. She survived to become a vital part of the balance of power between rival countries Ixia and Sitia.

Now she uses her magic to keep the peace in both lands—and protect her relationship with Valek.
Suddenly, though, dissent is rising. And Valek’s job—and his life—are in danger.
As Yelena tries to uncover her enemies, she faces a new challenge: her magic is blocked.And now she must find a way to keep not only herself but all that she holds dear alive.

A CHRONICLES OF IXIA NOVEL

‘A compelling new fantasy series’ – Rhianna Pratchett, SFX on Poison Study






BUY ON AMAZON, CLICK THE COVERS FOR MORE DETAILS

  




REVIEW


Finally I gathered my wits and decided to write this review. Knowing that Maria V. Snyder had decided to write a sequel series to her most famous Study series, I was able to get a paperback!
I did review the previous series as audiobooks and I was glad that Yelena, Valek and the rest of the gang were introduced again!

Six to seven years after the events of "Fire study" Yelena still works as the liason between Ixia and Sitia, fighting villains and sharing her precious time with Valek. From the first page an assassination attempt causes Yelena's powers to disappear.

And from there a new adventure begins, in which old enemies arise and new friends join the story! What I loved in the book? Triple POV! First for Yelena and third for Valek and Janco. I was glad that I got to see Valek's thoughts; there was also a reveal about his past and how he came to meet with the Commander as also how his feelings for Yelena grew.

On the other hand, Janco was the funniest character! His abilities on fighting and his distaste for magic was know to me but through his eyes it was much better.



There is action and comedy, intense romance paired to gether with the fantastic world building of Maria's writing. The ending was a happy surprise, which I hope to be a good ending for Yelena and Valek. Despite their almost 20 years of age difference I loved their scenes and how they are able to work together! I can't wait for the next book in which I hope problems to be solved and good news to be delived!






And don't miss the cover of the next novel from the "Soulfinder" series!



Summary from GoodReads

Ever since being kidnapped from the Illiais Jungle as a child, Yelena Zaltana's has been fraught with peril. But the recent loss of her Soulfinding abilities has endangered her more than ever before. As she desperately searches for a way to reclaim her magic, her enemies are closing in, and neither Ixia nor Sitia are safe for her anymore. Especially since the growing discord between the two countries and the possibility of a war threatens everything Yelena holds dear.

Valek is determined to protect Yelena, but he's quickly running out of options. The Commander suspects that his loyalties are divided, and he's been keeping secrets from Valek...secrets that put him, Yelena and all their friends in terrible danger. As they uncover the various layers of the Commander's mysterious plans, they realize it's far more sinister that they could have ever imagined.


PRE-ORDER NOW!



About the author:

 Meteorologist turned novelist, Maria's been writing fantasy and science fiction since she was bored at work and needed something creative to do. A dozen novels and numerous short stories later, Maria's learned a thing or three about writing. She’s been on the New York Times bestseller list, won a half-dozen awards, and has earned her MA degree in Writing from Seton Hill University where she's been happily sharing her knowledge with the current crop of MFA students. 
She also enjoys creating new worlds where horses and swords rule, 'cause let's face it, they're cool, although she's been known to trap her poor characters in a giant metal cube and let them figure out how to get out. Readers are welcome to check out her website for book excerpts, free short stories, maps, blog, and her schedule at http://www.MariaVSnyder.com.

Release Day Blitz+Review+Giveaway: "Worth It" (Forbidden Men #6) by Linda Kage



Welcome to the Release Blitz for the 6th book of my favorite series! "Forbidden Men" by Linda Kage seeks stories of men who in one way or another are trouble but in the end love always wins! Read my review below and don't miss the chance to enter the giveaway!!



Worth It by Linda Kage
(Forbidden Men #6)
Publication date: August 25th 2015
Genres: Contemporary, New Adult, Romance

Summary from GoodReads

I fell in love once.

It was amazing. She was amazing. Life was amazing.

I lived for each time I could see her, and nothing else mattered, not that our families were enemies, our time together was forbidden, or we had to meet in secret.

Our love could conquer all.

Until it didn't.

So I was ripped away from the love of my life and shoved into hell, forced to continue without her.

It shattered me, broke the best parts of me, left me permanently damaged.

Or so I thought.

Years later, I swear history’s trying to repeat itself because she’s back in my life, and I’m just as drawn to her as I was before. But I'm older and wiser now, and I know she should stay away from a worthless ex-con like me.

So, I will not let her in. I absolutely refuse to hurt her. I will keep her away.

Then again, sometimes risking your greatest fear to get to a smile makes everything worth it, and besides, I’m not sure I can resist her, anyway.

This is the story of how Felicity Bainbridge changed my life forever, starting one summer day long ago after I was forced to change a dirty diaper...

--Knox Parker



BUY THE BOOKS ON AMAZON (click the covers)










 REVIEW


I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review!

 If you have been following me, you should know that few authors have managed to make me both laugh and cry, especially on the New Adult genres. Linda Kage is one of them. Her series "Forbidden Men" has caught my attention and since 2014, I have been a fan of those characters who struggle, love and finally find their other half.

Knox and Felicity are the next couple of the series who through a series of meetings get to be connected with other know characters, like Pick, Ten and Eva.

I loved the double POV and the change between past and present from chapter to chapter. We get more feelings on Knox's and Felicity's growing relationship which in a way forms the present of the characters.

Of course my favorite one, Ten, is the goofy of the book with his dirty mouth and the punches he gets from everyone. Knox also learns to deal with the horrible past he had to endure, which proves that in the end you need someone to rely into and love you, despite your flaws or past.

An amazing sequel, which also makes me need the next one!! :)








 About the author:

Linda is a contemporary romance author from the midwestern USA, where she lives with her wonderful husband, daughter, and nine cuckoo clocks. The eighth and final child of dairy farmers, she was forced into having a vivid imagination if she ever wanted to do something one of her siblings hadn't already tried. Feel free to visit her at her website: www.LindaKage.com

Author links:







 GIVEAWAY:




Blitz-wide giveaway (INTL)


  • $20.00 Amazon Gift Card
  • 3x Paperback + Swag copies of Worth It
  • 5x Ebooks of Worth It
  • Swag Only package



a Rafflecopter giveaway