Book Review: Illicit Canvas by Joanna Mazurkiewicz

As always a disclaimer to say that I have been sent Illicit Canvas in exchange for an honest review. The following book review is in no way a biased one- but rather my own thoughts and feelings on the book regardless of receiving the book for free. Although, I attempt to steer clear of spoilers, some overarching themes I have explored may delve into spoiler town. Please read with caution if you are not wanting spoilers.

Published: May 16th 2015 by Joanna Mazurkiewicz
Page Length: 241 pages



First of all I want to say that I appreciated the exploration of suicide in the book portrayed in an accurate and sensitive manner. Unfortunately, suicide is often stigmatised and a lot of shame is often felt by those who have attempted suicide, or have suicidal thoughts. I appreciate in the book the acceptance of past suicidal attempts by others, and an acknowledgement that times can be tough. However, in saying that I would have loved to see the book having a reference page at the end of resources, and agencies one can contact should they find themselves struggling with suicidal thoughts. I also appreciated the psychological link between the action/thoughts/perception of a parent on the child's own identity, and self belief. What ones parent does/says/behaves influences a child greatly, and can be used to form their own identity and self-worth and this was explored within the book.

I also loved how this book portrayed a love romance between two people with a large age difference. I also liked how this was explored in a consensual way between two adults rather than between one adult and one child (i.e. a teacher and student romance where the student is still a child). I personally believe that age is just a number and should not be a factor in developing a romantic relationship with another person; pending both people are consenting adults.

Overall I felt this book explored some deep issues in a tactful and sensitive way. 5/5 Kudos to the author :)

Let me know your thoughts on the book.

Love Mis(sy)Understood x

Book Review: The List by Kate L. Mary

As always a disclaimer to say that I have been sent The List in exchange for an honest review. The following book review is in no way a biased one- but rather my own thoughts and feelings on the book regardless of receiving the book for free. Although, I attempt to steer clear of spoilers, some overarching themes I have explored may delve into spoiler town. Please read with caution if you are not wanting spoilers.

Published: May 26th 2015 by Lyrical Press Series: Book #1 College of Charleston



I really liked the concept of The List- that Annie wanted to experience all that college has to offer. However, this is also kind of a flawed concept, in the sense that Annie is putting pressure on herself to complete the list in a certain time frame, and I also question how she came up with the items on the list; was it really things she wanted to do, or things she thought she should be doing?

I really appreciated the female friendship in this book. Often when reading books about 'romance' the female friendship is in the background to the central romance. However, in this book I found myself more interested in the friendship between Annie and Cami. I am also excited to learn that the next book in the series will be from the POV of Cami. I am pleased to hear this as I found that the underlying issues were only explored at a surface level with Cami, and I look forward to reading more.

Ok so I know that I just wrote that I enjoyed the female friendship portrayal more so than the romance, but seriously the romance in this book made me want to scream. The sexual tension between the characters was evident, and I found myself thinking that I wish the men were less like gentlemen and would just get on with it! However, by the end of the book I was glad that the male characters were gentlemen as I think this was something that Annie needed (even though she wanted to escape the overprotective, over sensitive men).

I really appreciated the exploration of trauma on a family, and how this can effect the family unit. Although, I will not say too much on the trauma as I do not want to 'spoil' it, I think it is safe to say that I believe that Kate accurately portrayed what can happen to a family when they have experienced trauma. The complete identity change that trauma can cause is very sad, but also very real. I appreciated the exploration of this in the book.

I found myself thinking that Annie was younger than what she actually was. I think the reason for this was this was the first time in her life she was able to experience what it is like being 'grown up', so she was going through a sort of rebellious stage later than when I normally would expect to see it (i.e. often by 20 one would expect that often people would have had even a small amount of alcohol, or at least be exposed to other peers drinking alcohol). Therefore, I found myself feeling annoyed at Annie at times as she seemed completely naive in a sense, and seemed to lack any respect for herself, when really I had to keep reminding myself that she has never had the opportunity to be a 'grown up' before. I appreciated this differing perspective.

4/5 Kudos to the author. I look forward to reading the next book in the series.

Love Mis(sy)Understood x

Book Review: Rebound by Nicole Dykes

As always a disclaimer to say that I have been sent Rebound in exchange for an honest review. The following book review is in no way a biased one- but rather my own thoughts and feelings on the book regardless of receiving the book for free. Although, I attempt to steer clear of spoilers, some overarching themes I have explored may delve into spoiler town. Please read with caution if you are not wanting spoilers.

Published: 2015 by Nicole Dykes Page Length: 168 pages Series: Book #3 Soulmates Series



I love Ryan and I was looking forward to hearing his story, but I was a little skeptical going in as I usually prefer books written in the POV of a female, as I have found them more relate-able in the past. I was also a little curious about how this book would be as I knew it could not possibly involve a similar story to the other two Soulmates books (as they were essentially different POV's of the same story), and this somehow had me a little worried, as I was in love with the other books, but I was still excited, as I would be hearing a completely different story.

I have to say this book did not disappoint! In the reading of the other books I felt an excitement at the love story, and I thought this element may be missing a little from this book. However, Ryan and his charm, and kindness (I believe he is added to my ever growing list of book boyfriends), explored the notion of love throughout the book, whether it be the loss of a love, the love of a parent, the fear of new love, and the joy of love. I found my desire of a romantic read was met, and portrayed in a realistic way (love is not always kind or easy).

I also found Ryan to be a more relate-able character to me than the other characters in the series, as I found he was more mature, and on my wave length. I liked how the author recognized the age difference between the characters, and altered her writing style accordingly. This is not to say I did not relate to the other characters, as I certainly did, but I think this book felt more mature throughout, rather than seeing moments of maturity and then moments of childishness (because of the ages the other characters were at the start of the book). This is not a flaw, but rather a gift the author has to bring her characters to life in the age that they are, but rather something I enjoy with a book, is a certain level of maturity, because lets face it I am not exactly a teenager (in fact has anyone noticed that they refer to the 90's as some sort of historical decade? It was only yesterday people lol!!).

I really also enjoyed the exploration of a friend with benefits (FWB). I think this is often how people find partners these days, and I appreciate the authors acknowledgement of this. I often think love is explored in a more fairy tale fashion in books (which do not get me wrong I do enjoy), but it was a breath of fresh air to explore something that is becoming more common, and therefore, more relate-able to me (as I have certainly not had fairytale love in my life.... Prince Charming please stand up!).

Overall I thoroughly enjoyed this book and give it 5/5 stars. Woop Woop to the author :)
Love Mis(sy)Understood x

Book Review: The Juliette Trilogy (The Princesses of Silicon Valley) by Anita Claire

As always a disclaimer to say that I have been sent The Juliette Trilogy in exchange for an honest review. The following book review is in no way a biased one- but rather my own thoughts and feelings on the book regardless of receiving the book for free. Although, I attempt to steer clear of spoilers, some overarching themes I have explored may delve into spoiler town. Please read with caution if you are not wanting spoilers.

Book 1: Meet me in Silicon Valley: The Juliette Trilogy
Published: Septembers 14th 2014 by Anita Claire
Page Length: 164 pages
Series: Book #1 Princesses of Silicon Valley Trilogy



Book 2: Kiss me in Silicon Valley: The Juliette Trilogy
Published: September 7th 2014 by Smashwords Edition
Page Length: N/A
Series: Book #2 Princesses of Silicon Valley Trilogy



Book 3: Be with me in Silicon Valley: The Juliette Trilogy
Published: September 21st 2014 by Anita Claire
Page Length: 164 pages
Series: Book #3 Princesses of Silicon Valley Trilogy



I will start with the things that I loved about the trilogy. I loved the fact that Juliette's character was an engineer working in a male dominated field. I have not found this to be a common attribute of female characters in books, and I appreciated it. I also loved the love triangle in the book. I have to say that I am team Nate, as although Zach sounds really attractive, I find his lack of communication towards Juliette annoying, none the less a good read for me :) Lastly, I loved the female friendship portrayed in the book. It is not often that you read about a group of female friends, but more often just one friend, or a housemate, and they usually come second to the love interest.

Although there was a lot I liked about the trilogy I also found a few things that I struggled with. I found it hard to relate to Juliette even though we are the same age. I found her at times to be boring (especially in the first book), and found she did not have much character- she couldn't make me laugh. I also found her extremely mature, but then called her vagina a hoo-ha which made me cringe, as I could not imagine her saying that in real life. I felt that I lacked a connection with Juliette, and this makes me sad as I was hoping to relate to her a lot considering we are the same age.

Overall I liked the books. I would have to say that I could only rate the first book a 3.5 stars, and the other two a 4 stars each.
So overall a 4 stars for the author- Bravo.
I look forward to checking out the further books in the series that focus on other characters as I may relate to them more so than Juliette :)

Love Mis(sy)Understood x

Book Review: That's A Promise by Victoria Klahr

As always a disclaimer to say that I have been sent That's A Promise in exchange for an honest review. The following book review is in no way a biased one- but rather my own thoughts and feelings on the book regardless of receiving the book for free. Although, I attempt to steer clear of spoilers, some overarching themes I have explored may delve into spoiler town. Please read with caution if you are not wanting spoilers.

Published: October 8th 2014 by Booktrope
Page Length: 278 pages
Series: Book #1 Promises, Promises Series



Can I just say upfront right now, that when making sure I had the correct details of publisher etc I discovered that a second book is out in this series, and can I say THANK GOD! I am pretty sure I would have gone into serious withdrawal if there was not another book (the next book in the series is called That's A Lie and is out now)!

Now as you probably gathered from reading my other reviews if a book can make me feel then I will most likely enjoy it. This book was no exception. I am so ecstatic that the author chose to be bold and courageous and speak about subjects within this book that are often avoided being spoken about as people may not understand them. However, the author made sure to speak about subjects using a sensitivity in both her writing, and in her direction to readers on services they can access should they be triggered by the book. However, I would love to see a mention of trigger warnings on goodreads, and amazon etc as some people may find the book triggers them in speaking about the trauma the main character experienced (and this is something that would be good for readers to know upfront).

I have a strong connection to the main character in this book (Josie), and was glad to see the way the author portrayed her. Unfortunately, society can often paint someone whom has undergone personal tragedies as a victim. This was not the case with Josie. She was strong, bold, and independent. She did not let personal tragedy define her, but rather used it to become the stronger person that she is now. Josie has a special place in my heart <3

Then there were the boysssss. Well I think I gained two new book boyfriends. I cannot decide if I am team Seth, or team Blake so I chose both (because I can do that :P). The passion that Blake brought to the book was Steamy with a capital S. However, Seth and the way he just is... well it's beautiful to say the least.

I got to the end of the book and I have to say OMG... I don't know if I was disappointed (the lover in me was) or happy at the alternative route of life that was portrayed (the feminist in me was). All I can say is that I actually hugged my kindle, and then could not sleep. This book is something that has really hit home for me, in more ways than one. When I can connect with a character as much as I can with Josie it is hard to forget that, and I think she will hold a place in my heart.

In conclusion, I just want to say thank you to the author for being brave and bold in your exploration of often neglected topics in this book. The inner counsellor in me is very humbled and blessed that someone may pick this book up one day and not feel alone, and may feel ready to speak up, and you have given them that, as well as providing a list of places they can access. Bravo Bravo- 5 stars :)

Love Mis(sy)Understood x

Book Review: Fate by Nicole Dykes

I was sent Fate from Nicole in return for a book review. I will review this book honestly, and without bias. Although I attempt to steer clear of spoilers, some of the discussion about the book may tread close to spoiler town. Please read with caution if you do not want to read any spoilers.
This is the second book of the Soulmates series. I recommend reading Soulmates first, however, I am advised by the author that you can read the novel as a stand alone (but she too suggests reading Fate after Soulmates). As the book is a retelling and is essentially the same story as Soulmates (but told by Jake's POV) I will not attempt to explain themes the book explores as I do not want to sound repetitive. However, I do suggest you read my review on Soulmates, as obviously the same themes emerge within Fate.
http://thequirkymusingsofamissyunderstood.blogspot.com.au/2015/04/book-review-soulmates-by-nicole-dykes.html

Published: April 16th 2015 by Nicole Dykes
Page Length:132 Pages (Kindle edition)
Series: Book #2 Soulmate Series
Written in the POV of Jake (Soulmates is written in the POV of Maddie)



I think it is important to first start by saying that Nicole sent me Fate after first asking if I was okay that the book would have explicit scenes and contains strong language. Obviously, I had no issue with this, but I think it is appropriate to state, as the characters in the book are more of a younger age (12-17), yet the book may not be appropriate for an audience of that age to read (although it may well be suitable also I just think it is important to mention). In saying this, I feel that themes that emerge in the book are around 'coming of age', and could be relatable to a younger audience.

I found this book to give more character depth to Jake- whom I previously could not decide whether I liked or hated in Soulmates. I think it was a really great idea for the author to present the same story from a different POV. In Soulmates I found Jake to be basically a mean person. He was often portrayed as intentionally cruel by Maddie, but I formed a different perspective when looking at things through his eyes. I believe Jake struggles too express his emotions. What comes across as harsh may actually be a defense mechanism to cover up the hurt he is actually feeling. It was a great experience to get inside of Jake's head, as I got too see a side that he generally hides away from.

The lesson I was reminded of when reading this book-
'Dont Judge A Book By It's Cover'

Keep your eyes open for the next book in the Soulmates series; Rebound told from Ryan's perspective. I think Rebound will be quite different from Soulmates and Fate in the fact that Ryan is not in the Soulmate and Fate much... I am very much looking forward to the next book.

5/5 Kudos to the Author :)

Dont forget to leave a comment, and check out my other blogs (in particular the review on Soulmates)

Love Mis(sy)Understood x

Book Review: Soulmates by Nicole Dykes

I was sent Soulmates by Nicole Dykes as she was asking for people to review her second book (Fate), and kindly sent me the first book in the series so I could read that first. Another book review on Fate by Nicole Dykes will be coming shortly. Although, this book was given to me for review, I will review the book honestly without bias. This is a review that attempts to explain themes that I believe emerged in the book. Although, I attempt to steer clear of spoilers, some overarching themes I have explored may delve into spoiler town. Please read with caution if you are not wanting spoilers.


Published: March 22nd 2015 by Nicole Dykes
Page Length: 122 pages (Kindle edition)
Series: Book #1 Soulmates series
Written in the POV of Maddie (Fate is written in POV of Jake)



I think it is important to first start by saying that Nicole sent me Soulmates after first asking if I was okay that the book would have explicit scenes and contains strong language. Obviously, I had no issue with this, but I think it is appropriate to state, as the characters in the book are more of a younger age (12-17), yet the book may not be appropriate for and audience of that age to read (although it may well be suitable also I just think it is important to mention). In saying this, I feel that themes that emerge in the book are around 'coming of age', and could be relatable to a younger audience.

Some themes in the book are as follows:
Coming of Age:
The book follows a series of characters (two main characters named Jake and Maddie), who have grown up together. The book starts at exploring their friendships when they are young children (briefly), and the follows a group of friends from around the age of 12-17. Some of the coming of age issues that they come across in the book are; sexuality, identity, role confusion (Where do I fit in?), gender roles, and peer pressure. It appears that although the characters are portrayed as being involved in adult activities/choices (ie. sex), that they go about these choices and actions in rather a childish manner. An example of this, is when it is stated multiple times in the book that Maddie is often seen as the 'mum' of the group, yet she still evokes in childish activities of 'name calling'. This is not an insult, but rather a reflection of the age group of the characters being in that 'between' age group. They are not quite adult, yet they are not children. I think the book portrayed this point very well, and I found myself at times shocked at the level of maturity characters showed (especially Maddie), but then at other times being flung back into reality to remember that they are still young adults.
Slut Shaming/ Bullying:
This book explored characters losing their virginity. Some of the characters appeared to have no hangups about losing their virginity, yet some characters struggled in deciding when/if they wanted to have sex. Maddie was shown to struggle with this throughout the book; she felt that herself, and her friends were too young to be having sex, yet she did not want to be left out, and felt the pressure of her friends to 'lose it'. It felt at times that there was bullying or an expectation that you HAD to have sex to fit in. I feel this issue was explored very well, and could be applied (unfortunately) to that age group. Working as a counsellor myself I understand the pressures that other peers can put on young adults at school, and the inner conflict on whether to succumb to fit in, or to be true to your own wishes and be excluded/ridiculed.
First Love/ Relationships
In the book, although casual relationships/flings were discussed; relationships and love were also explored. The love between friends, lovers, family etc were all explored in the book. The book explored love in all of it's forms, whether it seemed like 'perfect' love, or when love goes wrong (divorce). I think the author showed different kinds of love, and this was done very well, and with sensitivity.
Death/ Endings
The book explored death in its purest form, as well as other endings (ie. when the characters leave high school for college/university/work). I do not want to go into too much depth here for fear of spoilers, but I think the book accurately portrayed the rawness of death, and endings, and how people can bond together over these times in order to make the change more bearable.

What I thought: I adored this book fullstop. Although initially being concerned of the mature content the book explores, I think that having a disclaimer will mean the book reaches it's target audience. My measure of 'rating' a book is by if a book can make me feel in any shape or form. Although, I feel like the characters were in a different life stage to me, I often found myself feeling admiration towards the characters sticking up for what they believe in (even when they were criticized for it), sad at the struggles people can find themselves in within the in between stage of life, anger at certain characters and how they behaved, and in awe of the strength the characters had in facing adverse life events. I read this book in one sitting (although it is short I was also highly engrossed). I am looking forward to reading and reviewing the next book- watch this space!

5/5- Kudos to the author :)