Review: Yearn For Me by A. Star

Title: Yearn For Me
Author: A. Star
Series: The Djinn Order #3
Publication: September 20th 2016
Genre: Steampunk
Purchase: Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Kobo
Rating: 4/5

One Djinn Lord found. Three more to go.

When Glory finally learns the true purpose of the Djinn Order, she starts to question everything that has happened since she met her Djinn boyfriend, Irving. She hates that she no longer knows who to trust or what truths are actually lies. Nothing is as it seems.

After a visit with the divine Halo of Elders leads to more revelations about Rasputin’s war against the universe–and the future of her own relationship with Irving--Glory realizes that she, Irving and the rest of their save-the-day posse have no choice but to hunt down the rest of the Djinn Order and allow them to do what they were created to do.

But just as a solid plan is set, everything falls apart as Glory’s previous actions threaten to crumble the Amir dynasty and Irving unveils a damning discovery. But it’s what happened before, over a century ago, that truly endangers their mission. They demand to know the truth, but knowing isn’t always accepting. If they can embrace the ugly past, then they just might win the war. If they don’t…they die.

And destiny would love that.

I'm so glad I finally read the third Djinn Order book. It's one of my favorite series because it has Djinn, steampunk and Glory is one of my favorite heroines ever. 

First of all I want to say that I really liked Yearn For Me. But I felt like it missed something that the other two books did have. Even so I really did enjoy this book and as always flew through it in no time. It was also seriously funny!

The action started not long after the book started, which I loved. Reading about all the ass-kicking happening there was awesome. I especially liked Glory's mom and aunt in this book because they kicked ass and they were hilarious in their interaction with each other and all the other characters.

Another new favorite character that got introduced in this book was Lord Mal. I don't know what it says about me because he is really insane but I loved him. The scenes with him were actually kind of funny. And as always I adored all the Glory and Irving scenes. I just love the both of them.

I really like the storyline of this series. I never know what to expect next. I can guess of course but this author is so good at writing the opposite of what I think will happen, which makes the story even better of course. I love twists and turns in a book.

Overall, Yearn For Me was a really great and funny read. It made me laugh out loud a lot, the characters are still super badass and the story had its fair share of slightly shocking plot twists. By now I know to expect the unexpected with these books, especially the endings. I can't wait for the next one!

       About the Author:

       Website | Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | Pinterest

A. Star is a fan of dirty passion. She loves to read it, and she damn sure loves to write it. She is the author of the Mythos: Gods & Lovers series, the Djinn Order series, and the Knights of the Joust series. She is a night-owl and a coffee junkie, and the only sneaker she would be caught dead wearing are Converses.

Blog Tour ~ Review: Dream of Me by A. Star + Giveaway (INT)

Title: Dream of me
Author: A. Star
Series: The Djinn Order #2
Publication: January 19th 2016
Genre: Adult ~ Fantasy ~ Romance ~ Steampunk
Purchase: Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Kobo
Rating: 5/5

This review copy was provided in exchange for an honest review.

   

Glory St. Pierre never thought so many lies could hold so much truth, especially when her entire life has been one of those lies. Now that she knows who she really is, she must find a way to come to terms with it before the Djinn sorcerer Rasputin and his steel army descend down upon the human and Djinn realms, wielding magic so dark even her own Djinn lover, Irving, is wary of it.

Their only hope to save the realms are a couple of hunters and the Lords of the Djinn Order, four powerful Djinn who have remained elusive for centuries. Armed with her only granted wish, a fabulous airship, and the Djinn she loves by her side, Glory will embark on a quest to find the four lords and enlist their help. But there is a reason the lords have been in hiding, and once this tiny band of adventurers awakens them from their slumber, they will set off a chain of events that has been in the making since the beginning of time.

There is no turning back now.

Oh my god! Dream of Me was freaking awesome! Of course I wasn't expecting anything less but I'm still amazed at the turn this book took. I loved it and finished in pretty much one sitting!

In this book, Glory is still trying to come to terms with everything she discovered in the first book, with herself being the daughter of Rasputin and her mother being a fierce Djinn hunter and everything else in between. To stop Rasputin she, Irving, her mother and aunt are going on a quest to find the Lord of the Djinn order, their only hope to save everyone. 

Glory is still her feisty self, only she now knows who she really is. She still hasn't forgiven her family for keeping such a huge secret from her. I think Glory is a fantastic character but sometimes I wanted to smack some sense into her because of the decisions she made, although at the time she didn't knew they'd turn out bad. She also had some issues defining her relationship with Irving, which has its ups and down. I still love them to bits and pieces together, though. 

And Irving? What can I say about him that isn't obvious already. I love his devotion to Glory and his need to protect her, but also his kingdom. He's one of my favorite book boyfriends ever. I adore him. 

Some parts of this book really blew my mind. Especially the end. I really didn't see that one coming. The author, A. Star, really has a knack with writing surprising twists that make me exclaim out loud. Seriously. I also still love the steampunk aspect. It's all pretty genius and wonderful world-building.

Overal, Dream of Me by A. Star was amazing! Even more so than the first book, in my opinion. I'm also really excited for the next instalment in the series, with the way things ending. I can't wait!

       About the Author:

       Website | Goodreads | Facebook | Twitter

A. Star is a fan of dirty passion. She loves to read it, and she damn sure loves to write it. She is the author of the Mythos: Gods & Lovers series and the Djinn Order series. She is a night-owl and a coffee junkie, and the only sneaker she would be caught dead wearing are Converses.

Giveaway

One ebook copy of Wish For Me  + 2 Djinn order bookmarks

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Review: Lumière by Jacqueline Garlick

Title: Lumière
Author: Jacqueline E. Garlick 
Series: The Illumination Paradox #1
Publication: December 12th 2013 by Amazemo Books
Genre: Young Adult ~ Fantasy ~ Steampunk
Purchase: Amazon | Barnes & Noble
Rating: 2/5

This review copy was provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review. This in no way affected my opinion or content of the review.

 

One determined girl. One resourceful boy. One miracle machine that could destroy everything.

After an unexplained flash shatters her world, seventeen-year-old Eyelet Elsworth sets out to find the Illuminator, her father’s prized invention. With it, she hopes to cure herself of her debilitating seizures before Professor Smrt—her father’s arch nemesis—discovers her secret and locks her away in an asylum.

Pursued by Smrt, Eyelet locates the Illuminator only to see it whisked away. She follows the thief into the world of the unknown, compelled not only by her quest but by the allure of the stranger—Urlick Babbit—who harbors secrets of his own.

Together, they endure deadly Vapours and criminal-infested woods in pursuit of the same prize, only to discover the miracle machine they hoped would solve their problems may in fact be their biggest problem of all.

Lumière was kind of underwhelming for me. I liked the story but the characters and world building disappointed me a little.

I guess I had expected more of this book. The story wasn't even that bad. I actually really liked the prologue but then it all went a bit downhill.

The characters were kind of a disaster. I really disliked Eyelet (although I really liked her name!). She was just so hysterical about everything and also very childis, especially at the beginning with Urlick.

Urlick on the other hand wasn't a bad character. I actually quite liked him. And as much as Eyelet annoyed me, I loved the banter between her and Urlick. 

Another character that irritated me so much was Smrt. I mean, come on, what kind of name is that anyway? And as the villain of the story I expected a little more character developement with him.

I did like the steampunk aspect of the story. It was probably my favorite thing in the entire book.

Overall, I had a "meh" kinda feeling with Lumière. I expected and wanted more of of this book. But I think I will read the second one because I want to know what's going to happen next.

       About the Author:

       Website | Facebook | Goodreads

Jacqueline was nicknamed “Little Erin” (as in Erin Brockovich) after she took on her school board over being placed in black toxic mould and, well...lost. BUT if she hadn't lost, she's still be teaching with no time for writing, which would be the real tragedy because more than anything else in the world Jacqueline loves to write.

These days, she is affectionately referred to as the Quentin Tarantino of YA, known for her edgy, rule-breaking, Tim Burton-esque style of writing. Jacqueline likes gritty stories with beating hearts, dislikes wimpy heroines and whiny sidekicks, and loves a good tale about an irresistible underdog.

Lumière—a steampunk-fantasy, romance adventure—is Book One in her young adult Illumination Paradox Series.

Review: Verity Hart Vs The Vampyres: Part Five by Jennifer Harlow

Title: Verity Hart Vs The Vampyres: Part Five
Author: Jennifer Harlow
Series: A Hart/McQueen Steampunk Adventure #5
Publication: May 20th 2014 by Devil on the Left Books
Genre: Adult ~ Steampunk ~ Romance
Purchase: Amazon
Cover Rating: 3/5
Overall Rating: 5/5

KEEP CALM AND STEAMPUNK ON

The whole of Victorian London knows there is something not quite right about the Lady Verity Hart. She may be the daughter of an MP and the sister of famed inventor Lord David Hart, but she is a spinster whose own father threatens to send her to the madhouse every fortnight. Because Society is correct-Verity Hart is no lady. If they suspected how quick with a quip she is, let alone the majority of her brother's ingenious machines were her design, the sale of fainting couches would double.

Verity requires one herself when her beloved brother is kidnapped by vampyres in the dead of night. With the aid of an aggravating, rude American bounty hunter with a secret of his own, Verity takes to land, sea, and even air to rescue the only person who could ever love and truly accept her. Or is he?
Part Five of Five Includes: 

Chapter Thirteen- To the Manor Born, then Dead, then Undead
Chapter Fourteen- The Gloves Come Off

Verity Hart Vs The Vampyres: Part Five was brilliant! The last two parts were a bit less for me but I really liked this final part. It was full of action, witty banter and finally Jamie came to his senses. What more could I have wanted?

What I loved the most in this part was, of course, Verity finally being reunited with her brother, David. About time, right? I'm so glad he's safe. I just love him and Verity. They have this relationship where they take care of each other and it's just really sweet. I wish I could've read more about him. I hope he gets his happy ending too. 

Verity was brilliant in this last part. I love her wit and how she knows she isn't a lady and owns it. She's really a heroine I'd love to see more in books. And I love her complete trust in Jamie and how she knows he loves her back even though he couldn't admit it to himself yet. Like Jamie would say; she's one hell of a woman.
And Jamie... what more can I say about him. He's awesome. Even though sometimes he needs a little push by Verity. 

Overall, the finaly part in this serial was the best so far. I loved the action, romance and chemistry between Verity and Jamie. I would definitely recommend every part for people who love steampunk, paranormal creatures excellent writing and storytelling and strong heroines. It's been so amazing to be able to read and review these stories. I'm a fan for sure!

About the Author:

Website | Twitter | Goodreads

Jennifer Harlow spent her restless childhood fighting with her three brothers and scaring the heck out of herself with horror movies and books. She grew up to earn a degree at the University of Virginia which she put to use as a radio DJ, crisis hotline volunteer, bookseller, lab assistant, wedding coordinator, and government investigator. Currently she calls Northern Virgina home but that restless itch is ever present. In her free time she continues to scare the beejepers out of herself watching scary movies and opening her credit card bills.

Review: Verity Hart Vs The Vampyres: Part Four by Jennifer Harlow

Title: Verity Hart Vs The Vampyres: Part Three 
Author: Jennifer Harlow
Series: A Hart/McQueen Steampunk Adventure #4
Publication: May 6th 2014 by Devil on the Left Books
Genre: Adult ~ Steampunk ~ Romance
Purchase: Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Kobo
Cover Rating: 3/5
Overall Rating: 3/5

KEEP CALM AND STEAMPUNK ON

The whole of Victorian London knows there is something not quite right about the Lady Verity Hart. She may be the daughter of an MP and the sister of famed inventor Lord David Hart, but she is a spinster whose own father threatens to send her to the madhouse every fortnight. Because Society is correct-Verity Hart is no lady. If they suspected how quick with a quip she is, let alone the majority of her brother's ingenious machines were her design, the sale of fainting couches would double.

Verity requires one herself when her beloved brother is kidnapped by vampyres in the dead of night. With the aid of an aggravating, rude American bounty hunter with a secret of his own, Verity takes to land, sea, and even air to rescue the only person who could ever love and truly accept her. Or is he?
Part Four of Five Includes: 

Chapter Eleven- Irish Hospitality 
Chapter Twelve- In A Den of Wolves

Verity Hart Vs The Vampyres: Part Four was definitely interesting as Verity and Jamie close closer and we get to meet Jamie's werewolf relatives which causes all kinds of intrigue and trouble. This part has only two chapters but they're pretty long so it's not like it's too short or anything. It's just right.

In the first chapter not a whole lot happens except that Verity wants Jamie's relatives to help him. He, of course, is not up to this idea at all but he lets her talk him into it anyway. I just think it's adorable because I can totally see how Jamie just can't say no to her. There's more sexual tension and I'm glad Verity knows what she wants; him. If only Jamie saw it, too.

The second chapter was all about Verity and Jamie getting to the Roarke's. They actually live in a castle. Pretty cool. We get to meet a bunch of werewolves, most are Jamie's family. His grandmother is pretty cool lady so far. His uncle, however, is a total creep. 

But anyway, all in all, this part wasn't the best (again) but also not the worst. It was nice meeting Jamie's family and how they live as a pack. It also gave us some more insight on Jamie's parents. So yeah it was a pretty nice part. There's only two more chapters to come in the next and final part. I can't wait for them to go kick some vampyres butts and save David!

Go Verity!

About the Author:

Website | Twitter | Goodreads

Jennifer Harlow spent her restless childhood fighting with her three brothers and scaring the heck out of herself with horror movies and books. She grew up to earn a degree at the University of Virginia which she put to use as a radio DJ, crisis hotline volunteer, bookseller, lab assistant, wedding coordinator, and government investigator. Currently she calls Northern Virgina home but that restless itch is ever present. In her free time she continues to scare the beejepers out of herself watching scary movies and opening her credit card bills.

*Note:
Keep an eye out for the other reviews of the next parts.

Review: Verity Hart Vs The Vampyres: Part Three by Jennifer Harlow

Title: Verity Hart Vs The Vampyres: Part Three 
Author: Jennifer Harlow
Series: A Hart/McQueen Steampunk Adventure #3
Publication: April 29th 2014 by Devil on the Left Books
Genre: Adult ~ Steampunk ~ Romance
Purchase: Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Kobo
Cover Rating: 3/5
Overall Rating: 3/5

KEEP CALM AND STEAMPUNK ON

The whole of Victorian London knows there is something not quite right about the Lady Verity Hart. She may be the daughter of an MP and the sister of famed inventor Lord David Hart, but she is a spinster whose own father threatens to send her to the madhouse every fortnight. Because Society is correct-Verity Hart is no lady. If they suspected how quick with a quip she is, let alone the majority of her brother's ingenious machines were her design, the sale of fainting couches would double.

Verity requires one herself when her beloved brother is kidnapped by vampyres in the dead of night. With the aid of an aggravating, rude American bounty hunter with a secret of his own, Verity takes to land, sea, and even air to rescue the only person who could ever love and truly accept her. Or is he?Part Three of Five Includes: 

Chapter Seven- A Wales of a Time 
Chapter Eight- Freudian Slips 
Chapter Nine- Fear of Falling 
Chapter Ten- Do Not Look Down

Verity Hart VS The Vampyres: Part Three wasn't my favorite part ever but it was likable. I liked chapter 10 the best so far because there was a lot of action and you never know what might happen. 

The thing that annoyed me a bit though was how lovestruck Verity was. It's not like it was insta-love or anything but it comes close. I just don't like the fact that she already knows she's in love with Jamie. Just no, thanks. 

Other than that I still like this serial though. Verity and Jamie's journey is nice to read about and as always I love their interactions. Jamie says it as he sees it with no apology or anything. Just the way I like my men. Verity and Jamie fought a lot in this part. A lot. They're both just very frustrated with one another and I think Jamie should just give into what he wants. 

All in all, part three was not the best but likable. Things escalated very fast and got intense also. So I can't wait to see where things are going next!

About the Author:

Website | Twitter | Goodreads

Jennifer Harlow spent her restless childhood fighting with her three brothers and scaring the heck out of herself with horror movies and books. She grew up to earn a degree at the University of Virginia which she put to use as a radio DJ, crisis hotline volunteer, bookseller, lab assistant, wedding coordinator, and government investigator. Currently she calls Northern Virgina home but that restless itch is ever present. In her free time she continues to scare the beejepers out of herself watching scary movies and opening her credit card bills.

Keep an eye out for the other reviews of the next parts.

Review: Verity Hart Vs The Vampyres: Part Two by Jennifer Harlow

Title: Verity Hart Vs The Vampyres: Part Two
Author: Jennifer Harlow
Series: A Hart/McQueen Steampunk Adventure #2
Publication: April 15th 2014 by Devil on the Left Books
Genre: Adult ~ Steampunk ~ Romance
Purchase: Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Kobo
Cover Rating: 3/5
Overall Rating: 5/5

KEEP CALM AND STEAMPUNK ON

The whole of Victorian London knows there is something not quite right about the Lady Verity Hart. She may be the daughter of an MP and the sister of famed inventor Lord David Hart, but she is a spinster whose own father threatens to send her to the madhouse every fortnight. Because Society is correct-Verity Hart is no lady. If they suspected how quick with a quip she is, let alone the majority of her brother's ingenious machines were her design, the sale of fainting couches would double.

Verity requires one herself when her beloved brother is kidnapped by vampyres in the dead of night. With the aid of an aggravating, rude American bounty hunter with a secret of his own, Verity takes to land, sea, and even air to rescue the only person who could ever love and truly accept her. Or is he?Part Two of Five Includes: 

Chapter Three- Verity Hart Springs Into Action 
Chapter Four- An American Werewolf in London 
Chapter Five- Murder on the London Express 
Chapter Six- Mr. & Mrs. McQueen Terrorize the Countryside

Oh my. Now this is what I'm talking about. Finally a fantastic serial that I can really keep my attention with and enjoy immensely. Verity Hart Vs The Vampyres: Part One did a great job of introducing us to the characters, world, etc... but Verity Hart Vs The Vampyres: Part Two was even better. More action, more intrigue, more fabulous writing. I loved it!

Part Two mostly takes place on the road. Now that Verity has convinced Jamie McQueen to accompany her to Ireland to save her brother, they're all ready to go. But it isn't long before they bump into trouble when they find out people are hired to look for Verity. This brings on a lot of action and suspense that I really liked. There's not a dull moment in this part at all. I should add also that there's no lacking in sexual tension either.

So, in this part there's more of Jamie McQueen a lot more. We learn about his life back in America and how old he really is (not telling!). I liked that because at first I wasn't sure if I wasn't going to like him but I've already fallen for him. He's amazing. Hello new book boyfriend! I especially liked the interaction between him and Verity. There are definitely sparks flying! I love the contrast between Verity, who had a proper English upbringing versus Jamie, who's an American that isn't afraid using foul language in front of a lady. It's all quite hilarious. 

So all in all, Verity Hart Vs The Vampyres: Part Two was simply awesome. Even better than the first one. I really can't say anything bad about it. And I keep being amazed by how much I enjoy Jennifer Harlows stories. They keep me hooked, it's as simple as that.  

About the Author:

Website | Twitter | Goodreads

Jennifer Harlow spent her restless childhood fighting with her three brothers and scaring the heck out of herself with horror movies and books. She grew up to earn a degree at the University of Virginia which she put to use as a radio DJ, crisis hotline volunteer, bookseller, lab assistant, wedding coordinator, and government investigator. Currently she calls Northern Virgina home but that restless itch is ever present. In her free time she continues to scare the beejepers out of herself watching scary movies and opening her credit card bills.

Keep an eye out for the other reviews of the next parts.

Review: Verity Hart Vs The Vampyres: Part One by Jennifer Harlow

Title: Verity Hart Vs The Vampyres: Part One 
Author: Jennifer Harlow
Series: A Hart/McQueen Steampunk Adventure #1
Publication: April 1st 2014 by Devil on the Left Books
Genre: Adult ~ Steampunk ~ Romance
Purchase: Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Kobo
Cover Rating: 3/5
Overall Rating: 4/5

KEEP CALM AND STEAMPUNK ON

The whole of Victorian London knows there is something not quite right about the Lady Verity Hart. She may be the daughter of an MP and the sister of famed inventor Lord David Hart, but she is a spinster whose own father threatens to send her to the madhouse every fortnight. Because Society is correct-Verity Hart is no lady. If they suspected how quick with a quip she is, let alone the majority of her brother's ingenious machines were her design, the sale of fainting couches would double.

Verity requires one herself when her beloved brother is kidnapped by vampyres in the dead of night. With the aid of an aggravating, rude American bounty hunter with a secret of his own, Verity takes to land, sea, and even air to rescue the only person who could ever love and truly accept her. Or is he?

Part One of Five includes:

Chapter One- The Notorious Count Orrlock Has A Ball
Chapter Two- When Worlds Collide

Verity Hart Vs The Vampyres: Part One was a pretty good. I love serial books because they're quick to read if you want something short. So yeah, I liked it very much. Usually with these serial stories, there's not much room for character and world development but I actually think the author did a very good job with that. I had no complaints on that front where with other serial stories I did have some issues with it. So great!

As for the story in general, it was good. As usual with a Harlow book, it features a strong female lead and in Lady Verity Hart's case, one that is a spinster with a father threatening to send her away to the madhouse and she also designs machines that her brother takes credit for because they have no other choice but to do that. It makes for a very interesting leading character.
Also there are vampyres. Bonus points for that!

I don't want to say too much that will spoil the story but it's pretty obvious that Jamie "the American" McQueen will be a pretty big part of the story and I can't wait to read more to see how he'll fit into it all. I loved him in the scenes he appeared it. 

The ending was pretty intriguing as well, it made me wonder what is actually happening and why the Irish people have such an interest in Verity's brother David. Speaking of him, he was also a character I liked a lot. I can't wait to read more about him in the future. 

So all in all, Verity Hart Vs The Vampyres: Part One introduces us to a greatly written and imagined steampunk world in Victorian London. One of my favorites eras to read about, FYI. It was a great introduction into a new serial by one of my favorite authors, Jennifer Harlow. 

About the Author:

Website | Twitter | Goodreads

Jennifer Harlow spent her restless childhood fighting with her three brothers and scaring the heck out of herself with horror movies and books. She grew up to earn a degree at the University of Virginia which she put to use as a radio DJ, crisis hotline volunteer, bookseller, lab assistant, wedding coordinator, and government investigator. Currently she calls Northern Virgina home but that restless itch is ever present. In her free time she continues to scare the beejepers out of herself watching scary movies and opening her credit card bills.

*Note:
Keep an eye out for the other reviews of the next parts.