Alles Oder Nichts by Simona Ahrnstedt

I say it right at the beginning of my review: The first book of this trilogy was the best. Yes, the cover of this German edition is a nice to look at cover but something is missing. And the novel it contains was a nice read, but not as haunting and thrilling as the first one was.

Alles Oder Nichts* by Simona Ahrnstedt

High Stakes #3

Published by LYX on March 16, 2017

ISBN 978-3-8025-9947-7

Pages 697

Format Softcover

Source Publisher

Goodreads

Ambra is a successful journalist in search of a hot story. Tom a former elite soldier, whom terrible is befallen. Ambra has to return to the place where she never wanted to be again. Tom is trying here, to go back to life. In Kiruna, in the north of Sweden, where the coldness and the eternal darkness prevail, two people meet trying to escape their own past. Two people who wear deep wounds. And do not trust anyone. Two people who are overwhelmed by the attraction that reigns between them. They are wrong. And yet so scary right. But can they really cure each other? Or will their love destroy them once and for all? (personal translation by the reviewer)

My Review

This book wasn´t bad, not at all. Only darker and with a completely different story than the other two books had. 

Into The Water by Paula Hawkins

The cover captured my eyes the very first moment. And the fact, that the German edition uses the same as the English edition, was also a plus. And I was very curious if this book would turn out to be as bad as all the critiques were saying.

Into The Water* by Paula Hawkins

Published by Blanvalet on May 24, 2017

ISBN 978-3-7645-0523-3

Pages 473

Format Softcover

Source Publisher

Goodreads

In the last days before her death, Nel called her sister. Jules didn´t pick up the phone, ignoring her plea for help. Now Nel is dead. They say she jumped. And Jules has been dragged back to the one place she hoped she had escaped for good, to care for the teenage girl her sister left behind. But Jules is afraid. So afraid. Of her long-buried memories, of the old Mill House, of knowing that Nel would never have jumped. And most of all she´s afraid of the water, and the place they call the Drowning Pool …

My Review

When I placed my request for this book I never thought that I would get it. 

Follow Friday #21 – Reading Slack Or Time-Out?

Launched by Sonja of A Bookshelf Full Of Sunshine, continued by FiktiveWelten with a new logo.

The blog action is for lively communication between bloggers, a good network and should be fun. Duration of the question: Friday to Thursday. Rules. No registration required.

This week the FF question is: Do you sometimes have a reading slack or do you consciously take a break from reading?

Since I came up with this question, I guess I should say something about it. So keep reading if you´re interested in what I think about this question ...

This Shattered World by Amie Kaufman & Meagan Spooner

What a fantastic second book! I expected a lot of things, but not this gorgeous and beautiful story full of emotions and characters who complement each other in such a perfect way.

This Shattered World* by Amie Kaufman, Meagan Spooner
Starbound #2
Published by Disney Hyperion on December 23, 2014
ISBN 978-1-4231-7103-4
Pages 400
Format Hardcover
Source Publisher
Goodreads

Jubilee Chase and Flynn Cormac should never have met. Lee is captain of the forces sent to Avon to crush the terraformed planet´s rebellious colonists, but she has her own reasons for hating the insurgents. Rebellion is in Flynn´s blood. His sister died in the original uprising against the powerful corporate conglomerate that rules Avon with an iron fist. These corporations make their fortune by terraforming uninhabitable planets across the universe and recruiting colonists to make the planets livable, with the promise of a better life for their children. But they never fulfilled their promise on Avon, and decades later, Flynn is leading the rebellion. Desperate for any advantage against the military occupying his home, Flynn does not only things that make sense when he and Lee cross paths: he returns to base with her as prisoner. But as his fellow rebels prepare to execute this tough-talking girl with nerves of steel, Flynn makes another choice that will change him forever. He and Lee escape base together, caught between two sides in a senseless war. 

My Review

Yes, the story is different from the first book and yes, the two main characters are not to compare with the ones from book one.

Die Geister Vom Rainy Pass by Christopher Ross

Those ice blue husky eyes – wow! Since I started enjoying this series, I am kind of hooked by its covers. Each one of them is beautiful and shows a gorgeous looking husky. And the story here is so beautiful that even adults can read it.

Die Geister Vom Rainy Pass* by Christopher Ross
Alaska Wilderness Series #5
Published by Ueberreuter on September 12, 2016
ISBN 978-3-7641-7065-3
Pages 240
Format Hardcover
Source Library
Goodreads

For months Julie has prepared herself and trained with her beloved Huskies: She will participate in the Iditarod, the longest and toughest dogsled race in the world. No one can keep her from her plan. Not the anonymous troublemakers sneaking into the camp at night, nor her friend Steve, who is very worried. But the route over the Rainy Pass is itself feared by experienced mushers and there the disaster really starts. Will Julie pass the race despite everything? 

My Review

I was waiting very long for this book to come out, and the second I noticed its release date, I knew that I wanted to read it.

In Einer Winternacht by Mary Higgins Clark

When I got this book I wasn´t really aware of the fact, that it was actually a Christmas story. But despite that, it is a wonderful, heartwarming novel with a little cutie called Stellina and her story is just beautiful. I had a few nice hours with her and this short story.

In Einer Winternacht* by Mary Higgins Clark
Alvirah And Willy Series #3
Original Title All Through The Night
Published by Heyne on October 11, 2016
ISBN 978-3-453-43885-9
Pages 192
Format Hardcover
Source Publisher
Goodreads

All of Alvirah´s deductive powers and Willy´s world-class common sense are called upon as the two stumble into a Christmas mystery. A woman abandons her newborn at a Manhattan church. Simultaneously, a thief is absconding with a treasured artifact, a chalice adorned with a star-shaped diamond. The elude police, he grabs the stroller and disappears. Seven years later, the mother returns to the scene and finds Alvirah and Willy helping neighborhood kids prepare for a Christmas pageant at an after-school shelter. Soon the savvy sleuths set out to solve the puzzle of the missing child and chalice – and to unmask scam artists threatening to shut down the shelter.

My Review

It is not really known around here, that Alvirah and Willy have their own series, written by the author. At least those books are not specifically called by their names.

Follow Friday #20 – Book Tours: Top Or Flop?

Launched by Sonja of A Bookshelf Full Of Sunshine, continued by FiktiveWelten with a new logo.

The blog action is for lively communication between bloggers, a good network and should be fun. Duration of the question: Friday to Thursday. Rules. No registration required.

This week the FF question is: How do you feel about book tours? Are you actively involved, you persecute them passively, or are they not your thing at all?

The Secret City by C.J. Daugherty

The end of book one made it sure, that I had to read the second book as well. And what a great finish of this duology it was.

The Secret City by C. J. Daugherty
The Alchemist Chronicles #2
Published by Atom on September 1, 2016
ISBN 978-0-3490-0221-7
Pages 368
Format Paperback
Source Publisher
Goodreads

Locked away inside the fortified walls of Oxford´s St. Wilfred´s College, surrounded by alchemists sworn to protect them, Taylor and Sacha are safe from the Darkness. For now. But time is short. In seven days Sacha will turn 18 and the ancient curse that once made him invincible will kill him, unleashing unimaginable demonic horror upon the world. There is one way to stop it. Taylor and Sacha must go to where the curse was first cast – the medieval French city of Carcassonne – and face the demons. The journey will be dangerous. And monsters are waiting for them. But as Darkness descends on Oxford, their choice is stark. They must face everything that scares them or lose everything they have.

My Review

This book was big entertainment. I absolutely enjoyed reading it. And that end? – Perfect!

I Saw Her Standing There by Marie Force

Guess it is no secret, that Marie Force knows how to connect romance with the beautiful landscape of Vermont´s Mountains and the city that never sleeps. She does it with this novel again, though the tone is slightly different.

I Saw Her Standing There* by Marie Force

Green Mountain Series #3

Published by Berkley on November 04, 2014

ISBN 978-0-4252-7531-0

Pages 400

Format Paperback

Source Publisher

Goodreads

Colton Abbott and Lucy Mulvaney have a secret. Colton´s nosy siblings have begun to put the pieces together, but it´s not like Lucy to keep things from those closest to her – especially her best friend, Cameron, who recently moved to Vermont to live with her true love, Will. But Lucy isn´t about to tell Cam she´s having a fling … with Will´s brother. Flitting between New York and Vermont is exhausting, so Lucy is looking forward to a long weekend with Colton at the Abbott family lake house in Burlington. Too bad Will and Cameron have the same idea, and once Colton and Lucy are caught red-handed (and red-faced), will their clandestine romance lose its appeal or will their secret beginnings be the start of something lasting?

My Review

Oh, there is no doubt that you will find yourself in the warm embrace of the Abbott-family again.

Island Of Glass by Nora Roberts

A good closure for this trilogy. Magic is all over the place, the figures are very thoughtful and it fits in nicely how the author solved some things. If you are a Nora Roberts fan and fan of this trilogy, you should definitely read it.

Island Of Glass by Nora Roberts

The Guardians Trilogy #3

Published by Berkley on December 6, 2016

ISBN 978-0-425-28012-6

Pages 315

Format Paperback

Source Purchased

Goodreads

Three stars – of fire, water, and ice – have fallen from the skies, and now three women and three men have come together to find them. But on the quest for the final star, they´ll discover that possessing it won´t be enough to stop the destruction of themselves – and of their world … As the hunt for the Ice Star leads the six guardians to Ireland, Doyle, the immortal, must face his tragic past. Three centuries ago, he closed off his heart, yet his warrior spirit is still drawn to the wild. And there´s no one more familiar with the wild than Riley – and the wolf within her. An archaeologist, Riley is no stranger to the coast of Clare, but now she finds herself on unsure footing, targeted by the dark goddess who wants more than the stars, more than the blood of the guardians. While searching through Irish history for clues that will lead them to the final star and the mysterious Island of Glass, Riley must fight her practical nature and admit that her sudden attraction to Doyle is more than just a fling. For it is his strength that will sustain her and give her the power to run toward love – and save them all …

My Review

Good, this might not be the best book the author has ever written, but for my taste it was a nice and solid written novel about love, magic and fulfilling your destiny. 

As Time Goes By by Mary Higgins Clark

I saw the US cover and got curious. Sure, it looks totally different than the cover of the German edition (you will see it at the end of my review), but the summary sounded so interesting, that I actually didn´t care about the cover or covers in this case. And I was really happy when I finally got the book.

As Time Goes By* by Mary Higgins Clark

Published by Simon & Schuster on April 5, 2016

ISBN 978-1-5011-3044-1

Pages 288

Format Hardcover

Source Publisher*

Goodreads

Television journalist Delaney Wright is on the brink of stardom after she begins covering a sensational murder trial for the six-p.m. news. She should be thrilled, yet her growing desire to locate her birth mother consumes her thoughts. When Delaney´s friends Alvirah Meehan and her husband Willy offer to look into the mystery surrounding her birth, they uncover a shocking secret they do not want to reveal. On trial for murder is Betsy Grant, widow of a wealthy doctor who has been an Alzheimer´s victim for eight years. When her once-upon-a-time celebrity lawyer urges her to accept a plea bargain, Betsy refuses: she will go to trial to prove her innocence. Betsy´s stepson, Alan Grant, bides his time nervously as the trial begins. His substantial inheritance hangs in the balance – his only means of making good on payments he owes his ex-wife, his children, and increasingly angry creditors. As the trial unfolds, and the damning evidence against Betsy piles up, Delaney is convinced, that Betsy is not guilty and frantically tries to prove her innocence. 

My Review

I consider myself a huge Mary Higgins Clark fan. Good, I haven´t read all her books, but those I´ve read, were mostly fascinating me. 

The Kiss Of Deception by Mary E. Pearson

One of the first things I noticed about this book was its cover. The soft colors, the dark clouds, and the summary caught my attention. Sooo promising …

The Kiss Of Deception by Mary E. Pearson

The Remnant Chronicles #1

Published by Henry Holt and Co on July 8, 2014

ISBN 978-0-8050-9923-2

Pages 489

Format Hardcover

Source Publisher

Goodreads

She flees on her wedding day. She steals ancient documents from the Chancellor´s secret collection. She is pursued by bounty hunters sent by her own father. She is Princess Lia, seventeen, First Daughter of the House of Morrighan. The Kingdom of Morrighan is steeped in tradition and the stories of a bygone world, but some traditions Lia can´t abide. Like having to marry someone she´s never met to secure a political alliance. Fed up and ready for a new life, Lia escapes to a distant village on the morning of her wedding. She settles in among the common folk, intrigued when two mysterious and handsome strangers arrive – and unaware that one is the jilted prince and the other an assassin sent to kill her. Deceptions swirl and Lia finds herself on the brink of unlocking perilous secrets – secrets that may unravel her world – even as she feels herself falling in love. 

My Review

… and what a great book it was. Everything that the blurb promised, action, intrigues, emotions, and romance – all that was given.

Sword And Verse by Kathy MacMillan

A beautiful cover that lives from the color varieties. Red and orange bring a strength and danger into it although the motive is delicate and fine.

Sword And Verse by Kathy MacMillan

Sword And Verse Series #1

Published by Harper Teen on January 19, 2016

ISBN 978-0062324610

Pages 384

Format Hardcover

Source Giveaway 

Goodreads

Raisa was just a child when she was sold into slavery in the kingdom of Qilara. Before she was taken away, her father had been adamant that she learn to read and write. But where she now lives, literacy is a capital offense for all but the nobility. The written language is closely protected, and only the King, Prince, Tutor, and Tutor-in-training are allowed to learn its very highest form. So, when she is plucked from her menial labor and selected to replace the last Tutor-in-training, who was executed, Raisa knows that betraying any hint of her past could mean death. Keeping her secret guarded is head enough, but the romance that´s been blossoming between her and Prince Mati isn´t helping matters. Then Raisa is approached by the Resistance – an underground rebel army - to help liberate the city´s slaves. She wants to free her people, but that would mean aiding war against Mati. As Raisa struggles with what to do, she discovers a secret that the Qilarites have been hiding for centuries – one that, if uncovered, could bring the kingdom to its knees.

My Review

I was kind of thrilled, when I found out, that I had won this novel when I didn´t expect it at all. 

Ein Hauch Von Skandal by Sandra Brown

This book was originally published under the title Breath of Scandal and though the German cover isn´t quite that good, the fact alone, that Sandra Brown has written it, made me want it. So, when it got reissued, I went for it.

Ein Hauch Von Skandal* by Sandra Brown

Original Title Breath Of Scandal

Published by Blanvalet on April 17, 2017

ISBN 978-6-7341-0456-5

Pages 603

Format Paperback

Source Publisher

Goodreads

On a rainy Southern night, Jade Sperry endured a young woman´s worst nightmare at the hands of three local hell-raisers. Robbed of her youthful ideals and at the center of scandal and tragedy, Jade ran as far and as fast as she could. But she never forgot the sleepy “company town” where every man, woman, and child was dependent on one wealthy family. And she never forgot their spoiled son, who, with his two friends, changed her life forever. Someday, somehow, she´d return, exact a just revenge – and free herself from fear, and the powerful family that could destroy her.

My Review

I wrote for this title not only an English review but a guest review in the German language as well. 

Good As Gone by Amy Gentry

I love thrillers with a great psychological finesse and where you never know what´ll happen on the next page. Good as Gone is such a thriller and turned out to be a real page turner. And the answer to all the misery that one decision and one thought brought over an entire family was as simple as heartbreaking. Read!

Good As Gone* by Amy Gentry

Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt on July 26, 2016

ISBN 978-05449-2095-8

Pages 288

Format Hardcover

Source Library

Goodreads

Thirteen-year-old Julie Whitaker was kidnapped from her bedroom in the middle of the night, witnessed only by her young sister. Her family was shattered but managed to stick together, hoping against hope that Julie is still alive. And then one night: the doorbell rings. A young woman who appears to be Julie, is finally, miraculously, home safe. The family is ecstatic – but Anna, Julie´s mother, has whispers of doubts. She hates to face them. She cannot avoid them. When she is contacted by a former detective turned private eye, she begins a torturous search for the truth about the woman she desperately hopes is her daughter.

My Review

It seems that with Amy Gentry and her book I discovered a new thriller author that knows how to catch my attention.

Deathline – Ewig Dein by Janet Clark

My first book written by the author and it was stunning. The perfect combination of mystery, romance, and traditions in a youth book. And the cover – wow!

Deathline – Ewig Dein* by Janet Clark

Deathline Series #1

Published by cbj on March 20, 2017

ISBN 978-570-17366-4

Pages 393

Format Hardcover

Source Library

Goodreads

Josie has always wanted her life to have great feelings, dramatic passions and exciting twists for her. When she falls into the long holidays in the year after her 16th birthday, Josie does not know that that summer in front of her, is that who will determine her destiny. Nobody would eventually suspect that the idyllic horse ranch of her family could become the scene of mysterious events. But Josie has to learn that this illusion is deceptive when she gets to know the fascinating Ray. For her great love carries with her a mystery that could put Josie´s world at great risk. And so, Josie must decide. Even if the price for it is perhaps their love …(personal translation of the reviewer)

My Review

Guess I will never see butterflies and red poppy the same way. This book was wonderful, magical and with a beautiful love story. And the end …

Die Bestimmung Des Bösen by Julia Corbin

This book is the debut thriller by the author, whom some of us might know as Kerstin Pflieger as well. For some reasons, the cover made me curious – and I am still trying to figure out why or what the motive shows, except for the drops of blood.

Die Bestimmung Des Bösen* by Julia Corbin

Hall & Hellstern Series #1

Published by Diana Verlag on May 9, 2017

ISBN 978-3-453-35934-5

Pages 416

Format Softcover

Source Publisher 

Goodreads

“Close your eyes, and count to hundred.” These are the last words Alexis heard from her father. Shortly thereafter her parents are dead, and the little girl remains as an orphan, traced by traumatic memories. (personal translation of the reviewer)

My Review

I never thought that I would be among those happy few, who could read this debut thriller during a reading challenge. 

Die Wellington Saga - Versuchung by Nacho Figueras & Jessica Whitman

This book turned out to be a real surprise. A nice to look at cover with a decent motive and where the paper feels like pure silk. Good, the pink isn´t my thing, but the story inside the two bookcases is astonishing entertaining.

Die Wellington Saga - Versuchung* by Nacho Figueras & Jessica Whitman

Die Wellington Saga Series #1

Original Title High Season (The Polo Season)

Published by Blanvalet on May 15, 2017

ISBN 978-3-7341-0372-8

Pages 382

Format Softcover

Source Publisher

Goodreads

Georgia never wanted to be a jetsetter. A plain old country vet was fine for her. But one distress call from her best friend and the next thing she knows she´s neck deep in the world of polo´s most elite international players – complete with designer dresses, fine champagne and some of the most gorgeous thoroughbreds she´s ever seen. Some of the most gorgeous men too … Alejandro Del Campo needs his team to win the season´s biggest polo tournament or else he´s not sure how much longer they´re going to be in business. What he doesn´t need is some sassy new vet telling him how to run his business – and distracting him at every turn. But as they come closer and closer to the championship match, it soon becomes clear that Alejandro wants to win Georgia just as much as the tourney trophy. But can he ever convince her his world is where she truly belongs?

My Review

And the warmth between the lines, when you read all that polo information told either by Alejandro or someone else, that was another thing I didn´t quite expect. 

Follow Friday #19 – Highlight May 2017

Launched by Sonja of A Bookshelf Full Of Sunshine, continued by FiktiveWelten with a new logo.

The blog action is for lively communication between bloggers, a good network and should be fun. Duration of the question: Friday to Thursday. Rules. No registration required.

This week the FF is all about our book highlight for May. It took me one look and I had it. I guess I can say that I was dancing a happy dance when it arrived and couldn´t wait to start reading it. You want to know which book I got so excited about? Keep reading *smirk*

Erinnerung Des Herzens by Nora Roberts

Genuine Lies is a wonderful novel that I now can call my own *YAY*. Secrets, lies, beautiful women and dangerous men are among the material the author used to write a thrilling story about the glittering world of Hollywood.

Erinnerung Des Herzens* by Nora Roberts

Original Title Genuine Lies

Published by Heyne on March 13, 2017

ISBN 978-3-453-42144-8

Pages 575

Format Softcover

Source Publisher

Goodreads

Eve Benedict is the last of the movie goddesses, a smoky-voiced sex symbol with two Oscars, four ex-husbands, and a legion of lovers to name. There is no secret, no scandals she doesn´t know. Now Eve has decided to write her memories – no holds barred. All Hollywood begs her not to. But Eve has her reasons … Julia Summers is the biographer Eve has handpicked to tell her story. Transported from her quiet life in Connecticut to glitzy Beverly Hills, Julia hates the limelight but loves her work – and the home it built for the ten-year-old son she´s raising alone. How can she refuse this chance of a lifetime? But Eve´s elegantly sexy stepson, Paul Winthrop, will challenge Eve´s determination to tell her story – and Julia´s resolve to guard her heart. And as Julia learns just how far Eve´s enemies will go to keep her book from publication, she also discovers that Eva has one last, dark secret to share. It is one that will change Julia´s life – and could cut it brutally short.

My Review

I wrote for this title not only an English review but a guest review in the German language as well.
So, if you want to see what my German guest review looks like, go over to FiktiveWelten. If you don´t, I am more than happy to see you staying and keep reading.

Und Niemand Soll Dich Finden by Mary Higgins Clark & Alafair Burke

I loved reading the first book of this new series, where Mary Higgins Clark writes together with a co-author. So, when this book was available, I literally jumped to get it and was totally thrilled when I got the approval for the book.

Und Niemand Soll Dich Finden by Mary Higgins Clark & Alafair Burke

Under Suspicion Series #2

Original Title All Dressed In White*

Published by Heyne on April 25, 2017

ISBN 978-3-453-27107-4

Pages 366

Format Hardcover

Source Publisher

Goodreads

Five years ago, Amanda Pierce was excitedly preparing to marry her college sweetheart in a lavish ceremony at The Grand Victoria Hotel in Palm Beach. Then, with their guests and families on site, Amanda disappeared. In present-day New York City, Laurie Moran realizes a missing bride is the perfect cold case for her investigative television series, Under Suspicion. She and her team set out to recreate the night of the disappearance at the Florida resort with Amanda´s friends and family in attendance, hoping to shed new light on the mystery as the series has done in past episodes. With a jealous sister, playboy groomsmen, Amanda´s former fiancé now married to a bridesmaid, and rumors about the “beloved” bride herself, Laurie and Under Suspicion host Alex Buckley quickly realize everyone has a theory about why Amanda vanished into thin air. One thing is certain: whoever was behind Amanda´s disappearance plans to keep the truth hidden “until death do they part…” 

My Review

It is always a great feeling when I get a book sent by the publisher. And when it is a Mary Higgins Clark book, it is an even greater feeling. 

The Hawkweed Prophecy by Irena Brignull

What a beautiful cover. Good, I am usually not very fond of purple or the grass-green but here it looks actually pretty amazing. And in combination with the motive the cover of the German edition has and the silver of the letters, I was hooked.

The Hawkweed Prophecy by Irena Brignull

Hawkweed Prophecy Series #1

Published by Weinstein Publishing on September 6, 2016

ISBN 9781602863002

Pages 368

Format Hardcover

Source Publisher

Goodreads

Poppy Hooper and Ember Hawkweed couldn´t lead more different lives. Poppy is a troubled teen: moving from school to school, causing chaos wherever she goes, never making friends or lasting connections. Ember is a young witch, struggling to find a place within her coven and prove her worth. Both are outsiders: feeling like they don´t belong and seeking escape. Poppy and Ember soon become friends and secretly share knowledge of their two worlds. Little do they know that destiny has brought them together: an ancient prophecy, and a life-changing betrayal. Growing closer, the begin to understand why they´ve never belonged and the reason they are now forever connected to each other. Switched at birth by the scheming witch Raven Hawkweed, Poppy and Ember must come to terms with their true identities and fight for their own place in the world. Enter Leo, a homeless boy with a painful past who – befriending them both – tests their love and loyalty. Can Poppy and Ember´s friendship survive? And can it withstand the dark forces that are gathering?

My Review

The book itself is a bright lavender color hardback, which fits the purple of the book jacket. Did I mention that this was my first book written by the author? 

The Sins That Bind Us by Geneva Lee

This book is totally different from all the other books I´ve read so far by the author. Full of emotion, drama, love and the desire for a normal life and a family. Yes, I know that some of this too, is part of her Royals Saga, but in a totally different way. Read this book, and you´ll understand what I am talking about.

The Sins That Bind Us* by Geneva Lee

Published by Westminster Press on May 2, 2016

ISBN 978-1-9451-6301-2

Pages 276

Format Softcover

Source Publisher

Goodreads

I wasn´t given a choice. Not when I did my first line of cocaine. Not when I became a single mother. But I changed, and every decision I´ve made was to protect myself and my son from my weaknesses – and my past. Until Jude came along and made me question everything, even my own secrets. The sins I carry with me can never be discovered. Life handed me broken bits of people and left me to construct my own world, and it´s too fragile to take a chance on Jude Mercer. We write our own stories. We build our own prisons. We weave our own lies. We commit the sins that bind us.

My Review

My first thought was when I got a glimpse at the beautiful cover: I must have and read it! 

Follow Friday #18 – Audiobooks

Launched by Sonja of A Bookshelf Full Of Sunshine, continued by FiktiveWelten with a new logo.

The blog action is for lively communication between bloggers, a good network and should be fun.
Duration of the question: Friday to Thursday. Rules. No registration required.

This week is the question: On what occasions do you listen to audiobooks? Or why are they not for you?

Oh boy, me and audiobooks *laugh* Well, long story short: I am not the type of girl who can listen to an audiobook while doing my laundry or cleaning the household.

The Chemist by Stephenie Meyer

Actually, I like the idea of a female protagonist who solves almost everything she has to face by only being smart with her skills as a chemist. That sounded very intriguing and turned out very haunting and clever.

The Chemist* by Stephenie Meyer
Published by Little Brown and Company on November 8, 2016
ISBN 978-0-3163-8783-5
Pages 512
Format Hardcover
Source Library
Goodreads

She used to work for the U.S. Government, but very few people ever knew that. An expert in her field, she was one of the darkest secrets of an agency so clandestine it doesn´t even have a name. And when they decided she was a liability, they came for her without warning. Now she rarely stays in the same place or uses the same name for long. They´ve killed the only other person she trusted, but something she knows still poses a threat. They want her dead, and soon. When her former handler offers her a way out, she realizes it´s her only chance to erase the giant target on her back. But it means taking one last job for her ex-employers. To her horror, the information she acquires only makes her situation more dangerous. Resolving to meet the threat head-on, she prepares for the toughest fight of her life but finds herself falling for a man who can only complicate her likelihood of survival. As she sees her choices being rapidly whittled down, she must apply her unique talents in ways she never dreamed of.

My Review

Sure, at first it was a bit strange, but after a few pages and some reading, I started to like the style. Not absolutely new, but used again in a fresh way.

True North - Wo Auch Immer Du Bist by Sarina Bowen

I had the huge pleasure to get to know the authors work by this fantastic book. When I applied for it, I never expected to be one of the few lucky persons who could actually read it long before everyone else would. And what can I say? I ENJOYED every second of this fantastic novel!

True North - Wo Auch Immer Du Bist* by Sarina Bowen

True North Series #1

Original Title Bittersweet

Published by LYX on April 24, 2017

ISBN 978-3-7363-0560-1

Pages 379

Format Paperback

Source Publisher

Goodreads

The last person Griffin Shipley expects to find stuck in a ditch on his Vermont country road is his ex-hookup. Five years ago, they´d shared a couple of steamy nights together. But that was a lifetime ago. At twenty-seven, Griff is now the accidental patriarch of his family farm. Even his enormous shoulders feel the strain of supporting his mother, three siblings, and a dotty grandfather. He doesn´t have time for the sorority girl who´s shown up expecting to buy his harvest at half price. Vermont was never in Audrey Kidder´s travel plans. Neither was Griff Shipley. But she needs a second chance with the restaurant conglomerate employing her. Okay – a fifth chance. And no self-righteous lumbersexual farmer will stand in her way. They´re adversaries. They want entirely different things from life. Too bad their sexual chemistry s as hot as Audrey´s top secret enchilada sauce.

My Review

This is the first book by Sarina Bowen I have ever read. And for sure not the last. 

News – Blog Got A New Name: Inkvotary

Follow my blog with Bloglovin

Same old me, same blog, BUT TOTALLY NEW NAME! And as far as I can see everything went a lot faster than I´ve expected. Well, the technical stuff, not the search for the new name or the creative stuff with all the headers, etc. etc.

Gone With The Books becomes Inkvotary.

I was thinking about changing my blog name since quite some time now. And I got really excited when I found it after literally spending nights coming up with names I liked and therefore stayed awake because my brain was working and creating them like crazy.

Follow Friday #17 – Break-off Or Rant?

This is a Friday meme hosted by Patricia of FiktiveWelten. Every week she asks a question that you can answer. Everyone who would like to participate, just answer her question, link to her blog and write a comment under her post to let the others know that you are participating.

The entire rules you can find here.

This week Patricia is asking if we rather break-off the reading of a book that can´t catch us at all or if we go all the bitter way and finish it.



Oh boy, after I´ve read the question I couldn´t help it but think of one certain book, that fits exactly the criterion and made me kind of rant in my review.

For 100 Days – Täuschung by Lara Adrian

The cover was the first thing, that caught my attention. Blue, white and black in combination with the visible skyline in the number 100 – looks elegant but modern. And the summary made me curious, so I had to read it.

For 100 Days - Täuschung* by Lara Adrian

100 Series #1

Original Title For 100 Days

Published by LYX on April 24, 2017

ISBN 978-3-8025-9821-0

Pages 382

Format Paperback

Source Publisher

Goodreads

Struggling artist Avery Ross is barely scraping by. Bartending at a trendy New City restaurant for an overbearing boss and two weeks away from losing her apartment to a condo developer, she´s desperate for a break. So, when she´s offered a temporary housesitting job, she takes it. Living at one of the poshest addresses in Manhattan is like entering a new world – one that catapults her into the orbit of billionaire Dominic Baine, the darkly handsome, arrogantly alpha resident of the building´s penthouse. What begins as a powerful attraction soon explodes into a white-hot passion neither can deny. Yet as scorching as their need for each other is, Avery doesn´t expect Nick´s interest in her to last. Nor does she dare to dream that the desire she feels for this scarred, emotionally remote man could deepen into something real. For Avery has secrets of her own – and a past that could destroy her … and shatter everything she and Nick share.

My Review

I had no high expectations since this was the first book by the author I´ve read so far and therefore I only had the hope that it would entertain me.

Schwesterherz by Kristina Ohlsson

OMG! This was one hell of a fantastic ride. And since there is a second book coming soon (actually not soon enough!) this ride isn´t over yet. Kristina Ohlsson, you´ve got yourself a new fan. This was big entertainment.

Schwesterherz* by Kristina Ohlsson 

Martin Benner Series #1

Original Title Lotus Blues

Published by Limes on April 10, 2017

ISBN 978-3-8090-2663-1

Pages 479

Format Softcover

Source Publisher

Goodreads

How do you vindicate a deceased, self-proclaimed killer? A criminal lawyer in Stockholm, Martin Benner sees himself as a man who has it all. Then Bobby T barges into his office one day, demanding his help. Bobby says he´s the brother of Sara Tell, a young woman dubbed `Sara Texas´ by the tabloids after she confessed to five brutal murders some time back – three in Sweden, and two in Texas. Six months ago, she shocked everyone when she escaped from pre-trial custody and leapt off a bridge to her death. But Bobby says she was innocent. He needs Martin´s help to clear her name and to find Sara´s son, Mio, who he says disappeared around the time of her death. As Martin and Lucy, the partner in his firm, delve deeper into the case, their pursuit of the truth takes them across the ocean to Texas, where the pieces of the puzzle slowly fall into place. But before Martin can continue his investigation, he receives some devastating news that turns his world upside down …

My Review

I wrote for this title not only an English review but a guest review in the German language as well. So, if you want to see what my German guest review looks like, go over to FiktiveWelten. If you don´t, I am more than happy to see you staying and keep reading.

Follow Friday #16 – Highlight April 2017

This is a Friday meme hosted by Patricia of FiktiveWelten. Every week she asks a question that you can answer. Everyone who would like to participate, just answer her question, link to her blog and write a comment under her post to let the others know that you are participating.

The entire rules you can find here.

The last time when Patricia had asked “what our reading highlight” had been in the previous month the response had been such a success that it has become a regular one in the Follow Friday meme.



It seems like ages that I have posted a Follow Friday post. But no matter how difficult things were or still are, there is still time to enjoy a book.

Der Prinz Der Elfen by Holly Black

As always, the cover made me curious in the first place. At least the cover of the German edition. But the cover alone doesn´t make a novel good.

Der Prinz der Elfen* by Holly Black

Original Title The Darkest Part of the Forest 

Published by cbt on April 3, 2017

ISBN 978-3-570-16409-9

Pages 407

Format Hardcover

Source Publisher

Goodreads

Hazel and her brother, Ben, live in Fairfold, where humans and the Folk exist side by side Tourists drive in to see the lush wonders of Faerie and, most wonderful of all, the horned boy. But visitors fail to see the danger. Since they were children, Hazel and Ben have been telling each other stories about the boy in the glass coffin, that he is a prince and they are valiant knights, pretending their prince would be different from the other faeries, the ones who made cruel bargains, lurked in the shadows of trees, and doomed tourists. But as Hazel grows up, she puts aside those stories. Hazel knows the horned boy will never wake. Until one day, he does … As the world turns upside down, Hazel has to become the knight she once pretended to be. But as she´s swept up in new love, with shifting loyalties and fresh sting of betrayal, will it be enough?

My Review

I wrote for this title not only an English review but a guest review in the German language as well. So, if you want to see what my German guest review looks like, go over to FiktiveWelten. If you don´t, I am more than happy to see you staying and keep reading. 

Waiting On Wednesday #40 – Year One by Nora Roberts

is a weekly event hosted by Jill of Breaking the Spine. This meme is a place that spotlights upcoming releases that we´re eagerly anticipating with pure joy.

This week I have a book to share that will come out towards the end of this year, but it is a Nora Roberts title, so I thought I share it already.




When the author made the announcement and published the cover a little while ago, I actually didn´t quite realize what this new trilogy´s plot would be about.

The Secret Fire by C.J. Daugherty

Good, the German cover is not really mine. But the original one isn´t really mine either. Though it was definitely the fact that I loved the authors Night School series and the summary of this one made me soooo curious that I wanted to read it.

The Secret Fire by C.J. Daugherty & Carina Rozenfeld
The Alchemist Chronicles #1
Published by Atom on September 10, 2015
ISBN 978-0-3490-0219-4
Pages 432
Format Paperback
Source Publisher
Goodreads

French teen Sacha Winters can´t die. He can throw himself off a roof, be stabbed, even shot, and he will always survive. Until the day when history and ancient enmities dictate that he must die. Worse still, his death will trigger something awful. Something deadly. And that day is closing in. Taylor Montclair is a normal English girl, hanging out with her friends and studying for exams, until she starts shorting out the lights with her brain. She´s also the only person on earth who can save Sacha. There´s only one problem: the two of them have never met. They live hundreds of miles apart and powerful forces will stop at nothing to keep them apart. They have eight weeks to find each other. Will they survive long enough to save the world? 

My Review

C.J. Daugherty has a fresh and easy way to write and with her former books, I had so much fun during reading that it was no question at all that I wanted this book at my shelves as well.

Shadow Of The Mark by Leigh Fallon

Okay after the a bit shocking end book one had and the fact that there was kind of a cliffhanger I had to know how the story would continue. It was a nice read, no doubt, and I felt with Megan all the time, that´s for sure.

Shadow Of The Mark by Leigh Fallon

Carrier Series #2

Published by HarperTeen on July 9, 2013

ISBN 978-0-06-212800-3

Pages 305

Format Paperback

Source Purchased

Goodreads

Through the ages, Marked Ones have harnessed the powers of the four elements: Water, Fire, Earth, and Air. Much about the elements is shrouded in mystery, but one thing is certain: A relationship between two Marked Ones has the potential to cause widespread devastation. Megan and Adam – Air and Water – are determined to defy the risks. But the power that swirls inside Megan is growing in twisted ways. And the closer she is to Adam, the closer Megan comes to unleashing a dark force that could spell destruction for the entire Marked line.

My Review

But I missed something. It wasn´t as much hilarious and fun as Carrier of the Mark and I am now kind of hanging in the air.

Waiting On Wednesday #39 – Quests For Glory by Soman Chainani

is a weekly event hosted by Jill of Breaking the Spine. This meme is a place that spotlights upcoming releases that we´re eagerly anticipating with pure joy.

I wasn´t sure if I would have a book to name for this meme since most of the books I am waiting for are coming out later in the year or don´t have a cover published yet.



And to be honest, I don´t like to share an upcoming book with you if I can´t provide you the cover for it.

I Want To Hold Your Hand by Marie Force

This series is such a lovely, heartwarming and wonderful written series, that you can´t do anything else but to love those books. If you are in for some romance mixed with the great landscape of the Vermont Mountains and a bit of reality, then this is what you want to read.

I Want To Hold Your Hand by Marie Force

Green Mountain Series #2

Published by Berkley on September 30, 2014

ISBN 978-0-425-26677-9

Pages 342

Format Paperback

Source Purchased

Goodreads

Almost seven years after losing her husband in Iraq, Hannah Abbott Guthrie isn´t sure she´s ready – or able – to move on, but the attentions of a lifelong friend are making her think about it for the first time. The memory of the sweet kiss she shared with Nolan Roberts hasn´t strayed far from her thoughts, but she also fears that pursuing something with him would mean betraying her husband´s memory. Nolan has loved Hannah for years, but he´d been giving her the space she needed to heal from her devastating loss. Now, when an opportunity arises to show her how he feels, Nolan can´t resist, but he knows earning her love will take more than a kiss. Somehow he has to prove to Hannah that finding love twice in a lifetime is possible – and well worth risking her heart.

My Review

Despite all the romance, hot scenes and the appearance of some characters from the first book, this book contains a story that is a bit darker in tone and figures.

Weekly Book Wrap-Up #48

In my weekly book wrap-up, I share with you the new books that have arrived at my place. No matter if I won a giveaway or got approved for a reviewer´s copy, got an ARC or just bought a new one.

And I will tell you a bit about the how and why I added them to my shelves and why I wanted them in the first place.




Weekly Book Wrap-Up is a combination where I link up with Tynga and Kimberly and their blogs.

Carlotta – Internat Und Schneegestöber by Dagmar Hoßfeld

This is a fantastic series for young kids with a great main figure. The book is a special edition for all the Carlotta fans before the newest book will come out in the fall of 2017. An English title could sound like this: Carlotta – Boarding school and snowstorm.

Carlotta-Internat Und Schneegestöber* by Dagmar Hoßfeld
Carlotta Series #6.5
Published by Carlsen on September 29, 2016
ISBN 978-3-551-65045-0
Pages 261
Format Hardcover
Source Publisher
Goodreads

The Theater AG is rehearsing Charles Dickens´ A Christmas Carol at Castle Prinzensee. The joy is immense when Carlotta learns that Sofie will give a concert with the orchestra of her Belgian boarding school at the castle. But suddenly the temperatures slip into the cellar. It starts to snow and just doesn´t stop. The roads are blocked because of snow drifts. The castle is closed off. Nobody can get in, no one comes out. And now?

My Review

I love this series. There is a lot of heart, friendship and warmth in it and the setting is a beautiful old castle.

Follow Friday #15 – Novel Characters

This is a Friday meme hosted by Patricia of FiktiveWelten. Every week she asks a question that you can answer. Everyone who would like to participate, just answer her question, link to her blog and write a comment under her post to let the others know that you are participating.

The entire rules you can find here.

Since Patricia is hosting the Follow Friday I knew from her that she was open to any ideas for new questions in this meme. But I never had one I thought was worth being asked.



A little while ago it kind of hit me and I sent her my ideas and she accepted them! How great is that?!

To Know Her Is To Love Her by Marie Force

For some reasons this story is not included in the German edition of the first book of this series and as far as I know the other novellas of this series won´t be either. In my eyes not a smart choice.

To Know Her Is To Love Her* by Marie Force

Green Mountain Series #1.5

Published by Fischer digiBook on October 27, 2016

ASIN B01KPSB7NA

Pages 54

Format eBook

Source Purchased

Goodreads

Cameron is back in New York – but only to say goodbye. Her dream comes true: She will move to Vermont to move in with Will and become a part of his big, loving and caring Family. But before that happens she wants to show Will the big city and all the places she loves. But most of all she wants Will to meet her father and her friends. Only one question remains: Is Will really coming and can she really move and leave everything behind?

My Review

This novella is about what happens when a relationship kind of moves on and the two involved parties have to find a way how to live together.

Upcoming New Releases March

Most of the books I am displaying here are books I am looking very much forward to their release day.
Some of them I already pre-ordered, others I started a request for and some I already have in my bookshelves since the month of March is by now a few days old.
It can be that you will see some titles in my list that are already being published abroad but will hit the German bookstores only by now; or the other way around.


I don´t know which of them I will be really able to read this month or over the year in general - not to mention buying them or getting them as a reviewer´s copy – but I will try to get to know as many as I can.

Carrier Of The Mark by Leigh Fallon

This cover! Soooo beautiful and it made me want this book from the moment I saw it. And with the summary and the fact that this would play in Ireland, it was even more intriguing. So it landed at my home and despite the fact that I read it a few years ago, this review had to be written.

Carrier Of The Mark by Leigh Fallon

Carrier Series #1

Published by HarperTeen on October 1, 2011

ISBN 978-0-06-202787-0

Pages 342

Format Paperback

Source Purchased

Goodreads

When Megan Rosenberg moves to Ireland, everything in her life seems to fall into place. After growing up in America, she´s surprised to find herself feeling at home in her new school. She connects with a group of friends, and she is instantly drawn to darkly handsome Adam DeRís. But Megan is about to discover that her feelings for Adam are tied to a fate that was sealed long ago – and that the passion and power that brought them together could be their ultimate destruction.

My Review

A novel about druids, a Celtic goddess and the elements of the earth: can it get any better than that? 

Waiting On Wednesday #38 – The Sins That Bind Us by Geneva Lee

is a weekly event hosted by Jill of Breaking the Spine. This meme is a place that spotlights upcoming releases that we´re eagerly anticipating with pure joy.

This week I will share with you a book that I want because of its gorgeous cover. I was thrilled the moment I saw it and the story almost became a minor matter to me though I am looking forward reading it - Hopefully.

Crown Of Midnight by Sarah J. Maas

What a brilliant book! In case you haven´t read any Sarah J. Maas book yet, this series is the best way to get started with. The main figure is such a sarcastic, self-confident figure and the irony that comes through the lines is simply amazing.

Crown Of Midnight by Sarah J. Maas
Throne Of Glass Series #2
Published by Bloomsbury on August 27, 2013
ISBN 978-1-61963-062-8
Pages 418
Format Hardcover
Source Purchased
Goodreads

From the throne of glass rules a kind with a fist of iron and a soul black as pitch. Assassin Celaena Sardothien won a brutal contest to become his Champion. Yet Celaena is far from loyal to the crown. She hides her secret vigilantly; she knows that the man she serves is bent on evil. Keeping up the deadly charade becomes increasingly difficult when Celaena realizes she is not the only one seeking justice. As she tries to untangle the mysteries buried deep within the glass castle, her closest relationships suffer. It seems no one is above questioning her allegiance – not the Crown Prince Dorian; not Chaol, the Captain of the Guard; not even her best friend, Nehemia, a foreign princess with a rebel heart. Then, one terrible night, the secrets they have all been keeping lead to an unspeakable tragedy. As Celaena´s world shatters, she will be forced to give up the very thing most precious to her and decide once and for all where her true loyalties lie …and whom she is ultimately willing to fight for.

My Review

For me, everything started with the beautiful covers this series has. The first one of the German edition caught my eyes right away and later I started buying the original editions.

Weekly Book Wrap-Up #47

In my weekly book wrap-up, I share with you the new books that have arrived at my place. No matter if I won a giveaway or got approved for a reviewer´s copy, got an ARC or just bought a new one.

And I will tell you a bit about the how and why I added them to my shelves and why I wanted them in the first place.




Weekly Book Wrap-Up is a combination where I link up with Tynga and Kimberly and their blogs.

Saving Mercy by Abbie Roads

Abbie Roads writes Dark Contemporary Romance with a hint of the paranormal. She writes about the darkest sides human beings can have, about love, passion, determination and that some of us don´t have the best start. This book shows in a great way what it means to be saved from a living hell and that we sometimes punish ourselves way more than the rest of the world could.

Saving Mercy* by Abbie Roads

Fatal Truth Series #1

Publishing Date by Sourcebooks Casablanca on April 4, 2017

ISBN 978-1-4926-3923-7

Pages 303 

Format Paperback

Source ARC by Author

Goodreads

He´s found her at last. Cain Killion knows himself to be a damaged man. His only redeeming quality? The extrasensory connection to blood that he uses to catch killers. His latest case take a macabre turn when he discovers a familiar and haunting symbol linking the crime to his horrific past – and the one woman who might understand what it means. Only to lose her to a nightmare. Mercy Ledger is brave, resilient, beautiful – and in terrible danger. The moment Cain finds her, the line between good and evil blurs and the only thing clear to them is that they belong together. Love is the antidote for blood – but is their bond strong enough to overcome the madness that stalks them?

My Review

Saving Mercy is one of those books where you know right from the beginning that at some point during the reading you will turn into an emotional mess in a very positive way.

Follow Friday #14 – Scheme In The Bookshelf

This is a Friday meme hosted by Patricia of FiktiveWelten. Every week she asks a question that you can answer. Everyone who would like to participate, just answer her question, link to her blog and write a comment under her post to let the others know that you are participating.

The entire rules you can find here.

This week the question is about the scheme in my bookshelves. At first, I thought what a nice question and easy to answer.

But then popped this thought up in my mind.

The Hope Chest by Viola Shipman

Make sure to have some tissues nearby. This novel is filled with emotions and will make you cry sooner or later because of its beauty, grace and the sensitive way the author has brought them to life. This is a must read for everyone who loves meaningful novels with a touch of romance in it.  

The Hope Chest* by Viola Shipman

Publishing Date by Thomas Dunne Books on March 21, 2017

ISBN 978-1-2501-0507-3

Pages 320

Format Hardcover

Source German Publisher

Goodreads

The discovery of one woman´s heirloom hope chest unveils precious memories and helps three people who have each lost a part of themselves find joy once again. Ever since she was diagnosed with ALS, fiercely independent Mattie doesn´t feel like herself. She can´t navigate her beloved home, she can´t go for a boat ride, and she can barely even feed herself. Her devoted husband, Don, doesn´t want to imagine life without his wife of nearly fifty years, but Mattie isn´t likely to make it past their anniversary. But when Rose, Mattie´s new caretaker, and her young daughter, Jeri, enter the couple´s life, happiness and the possibility for new memories return. Together they form a family, and Mattie is finally able to pass on her memories from the hope chest she received from her mother. With each item – including a favorite doll, family dishes, an embroidered apron, and an antique Christmas ornament – the hope chest connects Mattie, Don and Rose to each other and helps them find hope again in the face of overwhelming life challenges. 

My Review

Okay, the German edition doesn´t look as good and beautiful as the original edition does, but I can ignore that. 

Harry Potter And The Cursed Child by J. K. Rowling

The second I got the news that there would be an eighth Harry Potter book I knew that I had to have it. And that I HAD to read it, of course. But it took me some time before I could make it; probably because I heard so many different things about it. Not every HP fan loved it; in fact, it seemed to polarize the Harry Potter fans.

Harry Potter And The Cursed Child by J. K. Rowling

Harry Potter Series #8

Published by Little Brown Book UK on July 31, 2016

ISBN 978-0-7515-6535-5

Pages 343

Format Hardcover

Source Purchased

Goodreads

It was always difficult being Harry Potter and it isn´t much easier now that he is an overworked employee of the Ministry of Magic, a husband, and father of three school-age-children. While Harry grapples with a past that refuses to stay where it belongs, his youngest son Albus must struggle with the weight of a family legacy he never wanted. As past and present fuse ominously, both father and son learn the uncomfortable truth: sometimes, darkness comes from unexpected places.  

My Review

Well, guess I belong definitely to those fans who liked very much what they read in this script.