Good morning friends! Here are my most recent reads, all Winter/Spring 2019 ARCs from amazing publishers!
Testimony of Your Perfect Girl (Expected publication: May 14th 2019)
RATING: 4.25 ⭐
This novel follows Annie Tripp, a teenage girl who has everything she needs: designer clothes, elite figure skating lessons, and more. However, her precious world shatters when her father is accused of scamming hundreds of clients and investors. Temporarily living with her Aunt and Uncle is better than she expected, but soon family secrets start unraveling. Annie must focus on the truth, and which lies are better left alone.This story really surprised me - the writing style was bolder than I expected, but that made it realistic. It was straight forward on topics that are everywhere in society (smoking, drinking, etc.), and did not sugar coat it. Annie was a bit hard to connect with at times, but I liked her development of down to earth qualities. It was a tad slow at times throughout, but the ending was great, a strong conclusion to the story. While I do wish some secrets were revealed, it would become a whole other story if they were haha.
* Thank you Penguin Teen Canada for the Advanced Copy, in exchange for my honest opinion *
Cold Day in the Sun (Expected publication: March 12th 2019)
RATING: 4 ⭐
Holland is high school junior girl who loves hockey, due to her big happy hockey family. Growing up always playing with the guys, she now plays on the boys varsity hockey team at school. She is no stranger to criticism and judgement from people in town and at school. With a large hockey tournament and scouting opportunity coming up, she is surprised that one of the people most supportive of her is teammate and bossy co-captain, Wes. As sparks fly on and off the ice, Holland becomes closer to breaking one of her main rules, Don't Date Teammates. Ever.
I loved this adorable high school romance. The characters were fun and realistic, making the story easy to read. I liked Holland's character very much, she was determined to prove herself, despite many challenges. She went against stereotypes and broke through personal barriers.
The slow burning romance between Holland and Wes was great. The romantic dates, the blog posts, and the shared love for metal music perfect for a contemporary novel. I really liked Wes as a character - and his family members were very sweet too. He really understood Holland, and gave her the space needed to figure out what, and who, she wanted. This is the perfect cozy read for the winter months.
* Thank you Manda Group for the Advanced Copy, in exchange for my honest opinion *
The Deceivers (Published February 5th 2019)
RATING: 4.5 ⭐
This fast paced novel follows Brynn, a teenage con artist trying to make it to college. Between her mom's loser boyfriend and old neighbourhood, her recruitment to Vale Hall sounds like the perfect one way ticket to success. However, she soon learns this school is not impressed with her straight A's, but her ability to con people out of cash. To continue vying for a college scholarship, Brynn must use her street skills for a bigger purpose - before no one can save her.I really loved the action and suspense in this story. The exclusive boarding school setting was fun, and the mansion was described very well. The characters were great - loved Brynn's kick butt attitude and fearless mindset to protect those she cared about. I cannot wait to continue this series!
* Thank you Indigo Books & Music for the Advanced Copy, in exchange for my honest opinion *