Review: BECOMING CALDER by Mia Sheridan

Forbidden Love, Angst, Hope, and the deeper meaning of what drives the human spirit.
This book has a magical quality that draws parallels to Greek mythology, rich in allegory. I love my fun romance reads, but I LOVE when they have a little something extra. An undercurrent of significance. You have a heroine, Eden, who in her youth and naivete seeks out knowledge despite the risks and dangers, desperate to break free from her gilded cage. Calder, the hero, has his own story that draws from Greek Aquarius legend, that serves as the foundation for this book.

This story starts off in the BEST WAY. You get a glimpse of future events that paint this desperate situation, leaving you wondering how the character will get out of this mess. It needless to say, had me burning through the pages. I LOVE when movies or books do this. It hooks you as a reader assuming that you know some details of future events, just giving you enough of a hint, that creates this hunger for the story. It’s great story telling. And much like the beginning, the last chapter and the epilogue are PERFECTION. THIS is how you end a book that has a follow up book. It’s that come hither ending that will have you one clicking the next follow up book. SO JUST GO AHEAD AND CLEAR YOU WEEKEND PLANS, YOU’LL BE READING THESE BACK TO BACK. And lucky for us as readers, she’s releasing both BECOMING CALDER and FINDING EDEN on the same day. So no waiting, even though you totally would, you can just binge read to your little heart’s content.

Much like her other books, there is a sweetness to her stories and characters. This book doesn’t have a dark, gritty feel. Even though her characters go through hell and back, these are feel good books that won’t break you emotionally. Even more so with this book, the characters have spent most of their lives living a reclusive life on a commune. They have a naiveté about them, making them feel very childlike, even as young adults. That is a major part of the story. You could say, 'well if you don’t like the commune, just leave.' But as the book points out, one would have reservations, insecurities, and fears about going off into a world that you know nothing about. The author deals with this topic very well.

Okay, and the ANGST!! This is hands down the most INTENSE  of her stories. Because the story takes place in this very off the grid and foreign world, there is this dire sense of urgency and danger for these characters. Knowing that modern society’s rules don’t apply to this commune, creates this constant fear for these characters’ safety. The villain, has so much dimension to him. He’s scary, vivid, intense, and honestly I can’t tell if there is some hidden genius in there behind all of that crazy. I shouldn’t be surprised that there are so many multidimensional supporting characters in this story. This is Mia Sheridan’s trademark skill in her books. Her books are never JUST about the love interests. There are always other characters that strengthen and facilitate the story’s journey.

This is definitely a story that I haven’t read before. I don’t know that I would seek out a book that is in a cult setting. It isn’t something that I would, say, 'Oh, that sounds hot.' But here’s where Mia Sheridan’s books aren’t your typical contemporary romance. They have a fable-like quality, always having this great lesson and meaning in them. It makes the reading experience so much more worth it. You get that great Ah Ha moment that is engaging.

This book is well written with every detail covered and completed. You will be very happy to have every I dotted and every T crossed. Becoming Calder is one of those stories that opens the door to this magical world, vibrant in its lucidity, as you experience two star crossed lovers collide.

Review: Archer's Voice by Mia Sheridan

MIA SHERIDAN WRITES SPECTACULAR FAIRY TALES. You know that meme that gets posted on Facebook: I still love to read fairy tales... they are just a little dirtier now. I. LOVE. THESE. BOOKS.

This is a story of resilience and hope. It feels inspiring as well as heartbreaking, and along with that the couple has serious chemistry. I just loved this story. I was immersed and captivated by the plot, the characters, and the town. I just really fell head over heels for this one.

 It should go without saying that I continue to love what this author has put out there. The story is another magical one that is a page turner. It will have you holding your breath at times, crying, “No! Just no!” Seriously, I was so wrapped up in Bree and Archer that I yelled out loud NO in my whiniest voice, sat the book down, took a deep breath, and picked it back up. Really who was I kidding, I had to man up and find out what happened! So this one snagged me big time.

Loved Bree.
Loved Archer.
Loved their romance.
Wanted to kick a villain or two in the crotch.
Consider me a sucker for this story.

This author does emotional in the sweetest way. She will push you ever so gently toward that point of heartbreak, but then profoundly puts it all back together with the grace and beauty of her words. If you want to feel completely awestruck with the big picture, then she’s your go to girl.

Archer. Man what a paradox. He’s vulnerable, innocent, and inexperienced in relationships, but at the exact same time he is primal, moody, possessive, and competitive in his affections for Bree. He definitely is attractive, even though at first you may question that. Give him a chance and you’ll find yourself smitten. So know that the wounded puppy has some bite and may be a little dangerous. He’s completely misunderstood by everyone in the town, except for Bree who sees right through it and trusts her instincts.

What you can expect from Mia Sheridan’s books are genuinely likeable heroines. Bree is warm, funny, and silly, while also being persistent and resilient. She is a character that I could just be friends with and that made spending time with this book and the story that much more enjoyable.

The connection between these two characters is kismet. Strong, unyielding, passionate, intense. They are truly meant for each other and the universe just needed to show them the way to each other.

I really loved how the author tied in the Sagittarius sign and the mythology into the present day story. She did this also in the others in this series, and it was executed well again in this book. The story flows effortlessly. I was captivated and reading with a huge smile on my face. This author has continued to be one of my favorites. I am so happy that I have yet to be let down by any of her four releases. It seems that each story in this series has set out to try something different with the relationships’ dynamics. You continue to read something fresh and new from this author every time. She’s taking chances, I like it and the results.

The setting felt dreamlike. A beautiful lake front cabin in the northeast, located in a quaint little town that has a cast of characters that leave an indelible mark. The author built a beautiful scenery to allow the characters to inhabit. Even Bree’s little dog Phoebe has her own little personality, and reminded me of a little Toto.

The steam factor? Helloooo! Uh, Wow! I’m blushing. Yeah it’s got it. Any questions? Get the cold shower ready, you’ll need it.

Even though Archer may not look like your stereotypical romance hero, go in with an open mind. If not, you just might miss the true beauty of this book. Love, connection, and attraction doesn’t always come packaged the way you want it to, and this book will demonstrate that. The blurb lists Archer as “silent”. I’ll leave it at that and let you discover the story yourself, but needless to say, it plays a dynamic part in the book. One that Bree finds a way to overcome, but will Archer?

These characters have big hurdles to overcome as individuals, but watching them work through it while falling for each other is powerful. It’s coming of age with an enchanted feel to the journey. You will truly enjoy this one and fall in love.

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Review: Leo's Chance by Mia Sheridan

The follow-up to Leo, the USA Today bestselling novel by Mia Sheridan.

Does everyone deserve a second chance? Even someone who lies and deceives to get it?

Do we all have a second chance coming? Even if we play a part in our own destruction?

How hard would you fight to have a second chance at love? A second chance at life? Another chance to tell your own story?

Every love story has two sides. Evie told hers. This time it's Leo's chance.

 

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This review is for the second book in the Sign of Love series. It may contain spoilers if you haven't read the first in this series, Leo. See my review for Leo here.

My Review:

I love a guy's POV story, and after falling for these characters in Leo, I couldn't wait to get my hands on this one. I was not disappointed. This gave the background and insight into what the hell Leo was thinking in the first book. I love getting into a guy's mind to find out what he was thinking and why the heck he did those crazy things. Even though it is a guy's POV, be prepared for an emotional ride. You will go deeper into Leo and Evie's lives in foster care, and it is just heartbreaking at times. The things that the characters go through as children feel plucked out of real-life case file, and make you wish you could reach into the book and hug them tight.  A completely poignant representation of how poverty and instability affects children.

For the life of me, I couldn't understand why you WOULDN'T want to jump right into this book. I mean there were a lot of sketch situations and misunderstandings that happened between Leo and Evie. Sure, they worked their problems out, and Evie got over them, but as a skeptical reader I wanted to know what the heck the back story was. How could this guy get into some of these situations that looked pretty bad? ALL ANSWERED AND EXPLAINED. Congratulations Leo, you're off the hook for your wrong doings with me. You are forgiven.

I really liked Leo, but I think I liked this book even better. Of course it's because I'm a girl who loves all the details, clarity, and getting into a guy's head.

  

THIS IS ME. HAPPY.

But there is really so much more. The additional stories that are added in, are UGH, JUST AWESOME. After Leo's and Evie's first date, Leo heads to a bar to and makes friends with another person who is struggling with their own personal issues. As they talk about their problems they both find solace that things will be okay for them. Even though their encounter is brief, it is perfect execution for introspection. Two strangers helping each other in some way, completely by chance. It was perfection.

The shell story!! Wait for it people... you will LOVE IT! A new scene was added to the end of the penthouse scene! If Evie were real, I'd punch her in the arm for forgetting to tell us this story in the first book! LOVE.

You will get introduced to Leo's therapist, Dr. Fox, who he met in the hospital after his accident. It was cool to see Leo with a functioning male figure that was trying to help him make sense of what happened to him, and put the hurt behind him. In my mind, Dr. Fox was totally Robin Williams from Good Will Hunting. They have a touching relationship and you will really enjoy it as a reader.

OMG!!! LAUREN FREAKING CRAZY PANTS!!!! Aren't you DYING to know what the hell was up with that crazy scum of the earth?? Holy crap, it's crazier than you think. She is insane and there is a lot more behind the scenes that you'll find out about her.

Yeah, Lauren is nuts and must go away now. Buh bye.

In the first book I really didn't think about it much, but Leo really didn't appear have anyone to lean on. You find out that he really does have good friends that are looking out for him and keeping his best interests in mind. His secretary, Christine, is more like a big sister or aunt to him. His father's business partner, Preston, really respects him and is on his side.

 My only little complaint was that Leo really had Evie on a pedestal, and thought she was a saint. She's great, you're smitten, we get it. Get a grip Leo. He does go on and on about her. Some of his caveman possessiveness was a bit over the top at times. But just when I thought his behavior was beyond crazy, listening to his explanation totally made sense.

"I'm not really sure what that dynamic is between us, but it was always there growing up, and something about it always seemed to work for us, it would calm her and calm me. I had a need to be in control, and maybe she had a need to give someone else control. Whatever it was- it worked for us then, and I find myself reverting back to it now."  

Well, I REALLY liked this one folks. I think you will too if you are ready for a smart, introspective, emotional read that doesn't skimp on steamy scenes. It was different, and just what I was looking for.

"We didn't know how much love and forgiveness and understanding would be required to make it back on the path we were meant to be on, together. But what we did know was that we were here because we had both been willing to fight; to fight for each other, to fight for ourselves....love won"

 

Mia Sheridan was kind enough to answer some questions for us. After reading these emotional books, I had to pick the brain of the author who created these characters. Check out this independently published, USA Today best selling author's website HERE.

 Leo is the first book in the Sign of Love series. Tell us a little about where your inspiration for the story came from?

I sat down to write the story of Leo and Evie at the beginning of the year and although I had a really good feel for the characters I wanted to write about, I wasn't exactly sure where their story would go. One day I opened up Yahoo and there was a fun little article about "Your sex sign," or something along those lines. I read it and I thought, wouldn't it be interesting to take a character who had the main characteristic of one of the signs and have life throw something at him or her that would challenge that innate characteristic? What would that look like? How would they react? How would they fight to get back to the path they were meant to be on? I knew immediately that Jake was my Leo, my fierce and loyal lion. Their story took shape from there. 

Tell us what we should expect from the Sign of Love series.

Each book in the sign of love series will be a stand-alone with no cliffhanger. Originally, I intended on doing one for each sign… but I may mix a couple of the signs or do something different in a couple of them. We'll see. ;)  I probably won't do another pov book only because I rarely think it's very necessary. The reason I chose to do so with Leo was because Jake was keeping a secret throughout the story and I thought he exhibited some behavior that I was clear about, but that I thought could use some explanation in his own words. And there was really no way to do a dual pov in Leo without blatantly revealing what was actually going on. I wanted readers to know how he was struggling with his lie and how conflicted he was about who he was and who he wanted to be.

Leo was your debut novel. Tell us about that journey.

It took me about two months to write Leo. It will always be my most unique journey because I honestly was just writing it for myself. I sincerely didn't think more than a couple people and maybe my neighbors and husband would read it! If I knew then what I know now, or had any idea how many people would actually download it, I don't know if I'd have the courage to publish! I just look back at myself kind of like a country bumpkin, like "lalala, I'll just publish mah little book here." :D I didn't even know what a blogger was or a book tour, or anything really! I was completely clueless.

The hardest part for me is that doing something like this is WAY outside my comfort zone. I hate putting myself up in front of others, especially to be judged and reviewed! I shake like a leaf when I have to introduce myself in front of a group of ten people. I'm ridiculous that way. It's the part I struggle with the most – but in the end, it's probably good for me. Immersion therapy or something?

Thanks so much Mia! Congratulations on your success and I, along with many others, can't wait to read more from you in the future!

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Review: Leo by Mia Sheridan

Evie and Leo met in foster care as children and formed a bond of friendship. As they grew, their bond turned to love, and they vowed to make a life together when they turned 18 and were no longer a part of the system.

When Leo unexpectedly gets adopted as a teen and he moves to another city, he promises Evie that he will contact her as soon as he gets there and come back for her in a few short years. She never hears from him again.

Now eight years later, in spite of the odds, Evie has made a life for herself. She has a job. She has friends. She's content. Then a man shows up out of the blue, claiming that her long lost love, Leo, sent him to check up on her. The attraction between them is undeniable. But, should she trust this sexy stranger? Or is he keeping a secret about what his connection to Leo is really all about and why Leo disappeared all those years ago?

New Adult Contemporary Romance: Due to strong language and sexual content, this book is not intended for readers under the age of 18

Kindle Edition, 193 pages

Published April 17th 2013 (first published March 12th 2013)

original title: Leo

edition language: English

series:Sign of Love #1

 

My Review:

This book has the right mix of heartbreak, emotion, steam, and romance that you've been looking for. It is a modern day Cinderella story of sorts. A story of kids from the wrong side of the tracks, make good in their life. So it grabbed my interest in the first three chapters and didn't let go. The most interesting characters come from intense past experiences, just like diamonds come from extreme heat and pressure. This book provided that. Interesting characters that came from terrible past situations. Their thoughts and feelings are what really made this book.

Leo is well written and the inner dialogue hooks you with its intelligence and sensitivity. I was really connected to these characters and wanted to see them evolve. Overall, I found the book really enjoyable and it captivated my interest. There are some really great quotes from this book that I wish I could put into this review, but geez, I don't want to spoil it for you! They are so much better in the context of the story, so I'll let you experience them yourself. All I have to say is, EPILOGUE! You will LOVE it.

This book is definitely for you if you've been missing yourself some Christian Grey. Jake is very possessive, intense, and outright bossy. However, Evie is never threatened by it and rarely counters it. She finds it reassuring, comforting, and embraces it. Leo will not be the first or the last time you read of orphans, rich controlling guys, good girl virgins, or lies told out of insecurity. Don't go into this book expecting a completely new scenario that you've never read about. What will stick with you from this story is its HEART. The author's way of conveying the thought that your perfect match complements your own traits, faults, and balances you.

Leo will give you some crazy conflict and drama. Misunderstandings, insta-love, insta-sex, with a little bit of awkward funny mixed in. When the couple is in the middle of a steamy sex romp, the main character blurts out in her nervousness, "I'm a virgin!" **spits out drink** It was super awkward and meant to be funny, as the main character ridicules herself in her own thoughts.

When you are not that far into the story, you will think that you've totally discovered the plot twist. But keep reading. There are more turns in the story, that when revealed, will surprise you.

The main character Evie is pretty sweet and has some good friends that she can lean on. Her two best friends are good hearted people who are fiercely loyal to her. I really loved how the main character's friends didn't just disappear as the romance developed. I loved that they stayed interwoven into the storyline the entire book.

There were many times in this book when a "misunderstanding" would come up between the couple and I would want to yell at Evie, "Are you kidding me?? Don't let him off the hook so easily!!" But that sums up who Evie is. A very forgiving and kind person that is potentially vulnerable. This is what Jake admires and is in awe of. He is tougher and holds a grudge, but they compliment each other perfectly.  I also loved how very honest and frank she is in her inner dialogue and I loved it because it helped me relate to her.

Mia Sheridan melds beautiful phrasing and touching stories of youth and innocence into this book. There is a lot of self analyzation, and I loved it. It is missing from so many books that I read and it drives me nuts!! So this book had me at hello with that stand out trait. The characters had grown and improved by the end of the book. Also this book deals with a sexual abuse topic, and the author really had her ducks in a row in dealing with this subject matter. She didn't just drop the bomb and walk away. She spent the time to explain the reality of the after effects of something like that. It was responsible of her as an author and I appreciated it as a reader.

I have to say that I moved right onto the next book, Leo's Chance, which is the same story told through his POV. I know this is a review for Leo, but hold on if anything that you read doesn't set right with you. It is all explained and set straight in Leo's Chance. For instance, to me Jake was a little over the top with his putting Evie on a pedestal, and his crazy possessiveness, and I had trouble understanding that behavior. The author really explains the whole background and psychology of it and it totally made sense.  So give Jake a little leeway in this book. Nonetheless this book definitely engaged me and made me fall in love with these characters. This book is a stand alone, but good luck resisting wanting to hear his POV!

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