John's bookshelf: all en-US Sun, 29 Sep 2024 06:37:15 -0700 60 John's bookshelf: all 144 41 /images/layout/goodreads_logo_144.jpg Jagannath 24689989 Humanity faces extinction as a monster that feeds on our fears ravages the planet in this apocalyptic sci-fi thriller.They call it the a remorseless, shapeshifting creature that will stop at nothing to destroy humanity. Ever since it rose from the depths of the ocean, its lust for human blood has been insatiable. But most terrifying of all is that it doesn’t just stalk us as prey—it absorbs our intelligence, learns our worst fears, and takes their form .Ìý.Ìý.The military’s arsenal is powerless against the Reaper’s terrifying abilities. Like the Hindu deity Jagannath, it appears to be a “Master of the Universe.â€� But as they gather in the War Room to study its behavior, they make a startling the key to defeating this all-powerful destroyer may rest in the hands of one brave little girl.]]> 377 Kerry Alan Denney 1618684132 John 0 currently-reading 4.09 2015 Jagannath
author: Kerry Alan Denney
name: John
average rating: 4.09
book published: 2015
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2024/09/29
shelves: currently-reading
review:

]]> The Carver 31160818
THE PRINCE looks like he’s from another time entirely, or maybe he’s just too good at his job at Ye Old Renaissance Faire . . .

THE ACTRESS is lighting up Hollywood Boulevard with her spellbinding and strikingly convincing portrayal of a famous fairy. Her name may be big, but her secrets barely fit in one world . . .

Fifteen-year-old Crescenzo never would have believed his father’s carvings were anything more than “stupid toys.� All he knows is a boring life in an ordinary Virginia suburb, from which his mother and his best friend have been missing for years. When his father disappears next, all Crescenzo has left is his goofy neighbor, Pietro, who believes he’s really Peter Pan and that Crescenzo is the son of Pinocchio. What’s more: Pietro insists that they can find their loved ones by looking to the strange collection of wooden figurines Crescenzo’s father left behind.

With Pietro’s help, Crescenzo sets off on an adventure to unite the real life counterparts to his figurines. It’s enough of a shock that they’re actually real, but the night he meets the Girl in the Red Hood, dark truths burst from the past. Suddenly, Crescenzo is tangled in a nightmare where magic mirrors and evil queens rule, and where everyone he loves is running out of time.]]> 370 Jacob Devlin 0997010444 John 1 ***Disclaimer: I received a free copy in exchange for a review.***

What’s Good: an decent twist on what’s becoming a clichéd, stale idea. Fantasy characters migrating to the Real World and having to return to save everything is nothing new. Author Jacob Devlin invests the tropes with a bit of new life, which is all you can ask for. He also works all the loose ends of the plot into a neat little package; at about 65% or so you’re all caught up. Chapters are short, making for fast and easy reading.

What’s Bad: all the inconsistency. The setting seems lifted- or should I say ‘inspired by�- practically every existing Disney cartoon. It’s more mish-mash than mashup; all manner of fictional and historical characters- including Merlin, Kaa the Snake, Dr. Frankenstein and Mulan- come and go in Fairyland but no rhyme or reason as to how they got there or how it all works- especially at the finale when some of the characters end up in yet another fantasy realm. It’s all there to support the story without consequence and you’re just going to have to roll with it.

Dialogue- like most everything about the book, it seems to be kind of all over the place, almost like it was written freeform. One moment characters are speaking proper, stilted language and the next they’re saying ‘wanna, gonna, ain’t, buddy…�

Typical of a mish-mash, the characters exhibit some of the dumbest behavior at the worst times simply to advance the plot. And it’s pretty tiresome. This kind of stuff isn’t heroic- it’s idiotic, and far too often a crutch authors lean on. How about smarter, more capable villains?

There’s also the plot device of telling the story out of phase, alternating between Real World Now for the current situation and Fairyland Three Years Ago or Fairyland Twenty-Five Years Ago to reveal the backstory. Just when you’d be in the flow of one scenario you’re thrown into another, breaking up the rhythm. And sometimes it’d take several chapters to return to a setting, so you may have forgotten a thing or two and have to go back.

What’s Left: some badly executed good ideas. Nuggets of a story that need sharpening up, otherwise this isn’t a Young Adult story but a Middle Grade one.

]]> 4.06 2016 The Carver
author: Jacob Devlin
name: John
average rating: 4.06
book published: 2016
rating: 1
read at: 2016/07/18
date added: 2024/09/27
shelves: fantasy, faries, fiction, new-release, own, ya, teh-stoopid-it-burns
review:

***Disclaimer: I received a free copy in exchange for a review.***

What’s Good: an decent twist on what’s becoming a clichéd, stale idea. Fantasy characters migrating to the Real World and having to return to save everything is nothing new. Author Jacob Devlin invests the tropes with a bit of new life, which is all you can ask for. He also works all the loose ends of the plot into a neat little package; at about 65% or so you’re all caught up. Chapters are short, making for fast and easy reading.

What’s Bad: all the inconsistency. The setting seems lifted- or should I say ‘inspired by�- practically every existing Disney cartoon. It’s more mish-mash than mashup; all manner of fictional and historical characters- including Merlin, Kaa the Snake, Dr. Frankenstein and Mulan- come and go in Fairyland but no rhyme or reason as to how they got there or how it all works- especially at the finale when some of the characters end up in yet another fantasy realm. It’s all there to support the story without consequence and you’re just going to have to roll with it.

Dialogue- like most everything about the book, it seems to be kind of all over the place, almost like it was written freeform. One moment characters are speaking proper, stilted language and the next they’re saying ‘wanna, gonna, ain’t, buddy…�

Typical of a mish-mash, the characters exhibit some of the dumbest behavior at the worst times simply to advance the plot. And it’s pretty tiresome. This kind of stuff isn’t heroic- it’s idiotic, and far too often a crutch authors lean on. How about smarter, more capable villains?

There’s also the plot device of telling the story out of phase, alternating between Real World Now for the current situation and Fairyland Three Years Ago or Fairyland Twenty-Five Years Ago to reveal the backstory. Just when you’d be in the flow of one scenario you’re thrown into another, breaking up the rhythm. And sometimes it’d take several chapters to return to a setting, so you may have forgotten a thing or two and have to go back.

What’s Left: some badly executed good ideas. Nuggets of a story that need sharpening up, otherwise this isn’t a Young Adult story but a Middle Grade one.


]]> Lords of the Sith 23276336 A long time ago in a galaxy far, far away. . . .
Ìý
When the Emperor and his notorious apprentice, Darth Vader, find themselves stranded in the middle of insurgent action on an inhospitable planet, they must rely on each other, the Force, and their own ruthlessness to prevail.
Ìý
“It appears things are as you suspected, Lord Vader. We are indeed hunted.�
Ìý
Anakin Skywalker, Jedi Knight, is just a memory. Darth Vader, newly anointed Sith Lord, is ascendant. The Emperor’s chosen apprentice has swiftly proven his loyalty to the dark side. Still, the history of the Sith Order is one of duplicity, betrayal, and acolytes violently usurping their Masters—and the truest measure of Vader’s allegiance has yet to be taken. Until now.
Ìý
On Ryloth, a planet crucial to the growing Empire as a source of slave labor and the narcotic known as “spice,� an aggressive resistance movement has arisen, led by Cham Syndulla, an idealistic freedom fighter, and Isval, a vengeful former slave. But Emperor Palpatine means to control the embattled world and its precious resources—by political power or firepower—and he will be neither intimidated nor denied. Accompanied by his merciless disciple, Darth Vader, he sets out on a rare personal mission to ensure his will is done.
Ìý
For Syndulla and Isval, it’s the opportunity to strike at the very heart of the ruthless dictatorship sweeping the galaxy. And for the Emperor and Darth Vader, Ryloth becomes more than just a matter of putting down an insurrection: When an ambush sends them crashing to the planet’s surface, where inhospitable terrain and an army of resistance fighters await them, they will find their relationship tested as never before. With only their lightsabers, the dark side of the Force, and each other to depend on, the two Sith must decide if the brutal bond they share will make them victorious allies or lethal adversaries.


From the Hardcover edition.]]> 311 Paul S. Kemp John 0 3.90 2015 Lords of the Sith
author: Paul S. Kemp
name: John
average rating: 3.90
book published: 2015
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2024/09/24
shelves:
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Age of Myth (The Legends of the First Empire, #1)]]> 26633248 #1 Bestseller (epic fantasy, sword & sorcery, military fantasy, action & adventure) One of fantasy's finest next-generation storytellers continues to break new ground.

Michael J. Sullivan's trailblazing career began with the breakout success of his Riyria series: full-bodied, spellbinding fantasy adventures whose imaginative scope and sympathetic characters won a devoted readership and comparisons to fantasy masters Brandon Sanderson, Scott Lynch, and J.R.R. Tolkien himself. Now Age of Myth inaugurates an original six-book series.

Since time immemorial, humans have worshipped the gods they call Fhrey, truly a race apart: invincible in battle, masters of magic, and seemingly immortal. But when a god falls to a human blade, the balance of power between humans and those they thought were gods changes forever.

Now only a few stand between humankind and annihilation: Raithe, reluctant to embrace his destiny as the God Killer; Suri, a young seer burdened by signs of impending doom; and Persephone, who must overcome personal tragedy to lead her people. The Age of Myth is over. The time of rebellion has begun.]]> 413 Michael J. Sullivan 1101965347 John 0 did-not-finish, fantasy, own 4.30 2016 Age of Myth (The Legends of the First Empire, #1)
author: Michael J. Sullivan
name: John
average rating: 4.30
book published: 2016
rating: 0
read at: 2017/06/11
date added: 2024/09/24
shelves: did-not-finish, fantasy, own
review:
DNF. There's lots going on here, and I feel lost in the shuffle for not having read the other books. Not knocking anything, just not really for anyone new to the series.
]]> The Rocket Girl's Tale 36758972
Their love would take time to form, but would one day burn brighter than a thousand stars. But after the flames of infatuation burned out, what would pull a rocket scientist and an oil baron together?]]> 291 K. Hippolite 1927569125 John 4
Reiki, our heroine, is a fiesty, spunky freckled just this side of buxom redhead (sic), who immediately brings to mind Merida from Disney's Brave. She's smart enough to almost make it into the Moon Launch Program, but fate has something different in mind. Thanks to the enhancements of modern technology she's also a Cryokinetic- possessing the ability to freeze things.

Arthur Galenden is a rakish dilettante, upper crust through and through, his family's fortune lying in oil and his skills mainly in negotiation of the treacherous political waters of polite society. Seeking a diversion from just such tedium, his chance encounter with Reiki will change everything.

Reiki and Arthur have instant chemistry- and not that UF/PNR Chemistry aka "He's Sexy + She's Sexy= We're Soulmates" crud. They connect both intellectually and physically, making their mutual attraction feel natural and something you can relate to.

But the real fun lies in the dialogue. Beyond all the adventure, action and romance the political/social intrigues are the best thing about it. Watching Arthur's navigation of these shark-infested waters is especially entertaining and the inner monologues that accompany every character's machinations are witty, clever and anyone who's ever been in a socially awkward situation will find it hard not to identify with them. Author K. Hippolite truly has a way with words, crafting some engaging, amusing scenes that are at the heart of the story.

The only real drawback here is the incomplete worldbuilding. Not that it isn't vivid, descriptive and full of imagination, it doesn't exactly explain things. The world they inhabit is a place that's not quite Earth- which is fine- but more details would've made it fully realized instead of being just enough to tell the tale. No sense of history is given, no idea of how things developed and it kind of makes you feel like the story's happening within a vacuum.

Rocket Girl's Tale is one of those that's a breath of fresh air in an over-saturated genre. Check it out.]]> 4.00 2014 The Rocket Girl's Tale
author: K. Hippolite
name: John
average rating: 4.00
book published: 2014
rating: 4
read at: 2014/09/08
date added: 2024/09/24
shelves: fiction, own, romance, steampunk, sci-fi
review:
Been a while since I've read a book that was just plain fun to read.

Reiki, our heroine, is a fiesty, spunky freckled just this side of buxom redhead (sic), who immediately brings to mind Merida from Disney's Brave. She's smart enough to almost make it into the Moon Launch Program, but fate has something different in mind. Thanks to the enhancements of modern technology she's also a Cryokinetic- possessing the ability to freeze things.

Arthur Galenden is a rakish dilettante, upper crust through and through, his family's fortune lying in oil and his skills mainly in negotiation of the treacherous political waters of polite society. Seeking a diversion from just such tedium, his chance encounter with Reiki will change everything.

Reiki and Arthur have instant chemistry- and not that UF/PNR Chemistry aka "He's Sexy + She's Sexy= We're Soulmates" crud. They connect both intellectually and physically, making their mutual attraction feel natural and something you can relate to.

But the real fun lies in the dialogue. Beyond all the adventure, action and romance the political/social intrigues are the best thing about it. Watching Arthur's navigation of these shark-infested waters is especially entertaining and the inner monologues that accompany every character's machinations are witty, clever and anyone who's ever been in a socially awkward situation will find it hard not to identify with them. Author K. Hippolite truly has a way with words, crafting some engaging, amusing scenes that are at the heart of the story.

The only real drawback here is the incomplete worldbuilding. Not that it isn't vivid, descriptive and full of imagination, it doesn't exactly explain things. The world they inhabit is a place that's not quite Earth- which is fine- but more details would've made it fully realized instead of being just enough to tell the tale. No sense of history is given, no idea of how things developed and it kind of makes you feel like the story's happening within a vacuum.

Rocket Girl's Tale is one of those that's a breath of fresh air in an over-saturated genre. Check it out.
]]> Liulf (New Scotia Pack #1) 23307008 WHEN HE COULDN'T FIND HER IN HIS WORLD, HE WENT ELSEWHERE.

First of a series of three novellas about the Brothers Cu Ahlee.

New York Times & USA Today Bestselling author, Victoria Danann, wrote this series as a follow up, based on Moonlight, Best Vampire~Shifter Novel of 2013.

For hundreds of years the Scotia wolves have lived in the Highlands and enjoyed the protection of the Fae Monarchy, but the world is changing and the straining population compels the werewolves to adapt. Or die. Or MOVE.]]> 146 Victoria Danann 1933320745 John 2
Being new to the series and not knowing what to expect, I was thinking it'd be more grounded, a more realistic fantasy. So I was a little put off by the over-the-top elements: angels and demons working together, inter-dimensional travel as easy as crossing the street and utopian shifter societies.

All the same old PNR cliches apply here, almost to a beat. Uber hot alpha male with no flaws whatsoever meets a winsome, virgin girl who's clearly his soulmate because reasons, etc and so forth. Virgin Girl hasn't been or done anything outside of her clan yet somehow manages to beat down the older, stronger competition for her new man. Because strawberries. At least she didn't fall head over heels for him at first blush- she waited until he didn't want to kill a she-bear protecting her cubs before she fell into his arms. Ok. Story's practically non-existent: no struggle, no obstacles, no nothing. The wolves pack up and plane shift to their new home with nary a fuss or a conflict and everything's just peachy, including the sex. Now Liulf just has to get Rain into his bed and it's a party.

For fans of the series, it looks to be keeping in the spirit of things. For those looking for a light, easy PNR read... your mileage may vary.

Merged review:

***Disclaimer: I was provided a free copy in exchange for a review.***

Being new to the series and not knowing what to expect, I was thinking it'd be more grounded, a more realistic fantasy. So I was a little put off by the over-the-top elements: angels and demons working together, inter-dimensional travel as easy as crossing the street and utopian shifter societies.

All the same old PNR cliches apply here, almost to a beat. Uber hot alpha male with no flaws whatsoever meets a winsome, virgin girl who's clearly his soulmate because reasons, etc and so forth. Virgin Girl hasn't been or done anything outside of her clan yet somehow manages to beat down the older, stronger competition for her new man. Because strawberries. At least she didn't fall head over heels for him at first blush- she waited until he didn't want to kill a she-bear protecting her cubs before she fell into his arms. Ok. Story's practically non-existent: no struggle, no obstacles, no nothing. The wolves pack up and plane shift to their new home with nary a fuss or a conflict and everything's just peachy, including the sex. Now Liulf just has to get Rain into his bed and it's a party.

For fans of the series, it looks to be keeping in the spirit of things. For those looking for a light, easy PNR read... your mileage may vary.]]> 4.11 2014 Liulf (New Scotia Pack #1)
author: Victoria Danann
name: John
average rating: 4.11
book published: 2014
rating: 2
read at: 2014/10/28
date added: 2024/09/21
shelves: fantasy, fiction, paranormal-romance, short-story, werewolves
review:
***Disclaimer: I was provided a free copy in exchange for a review.***

Being new to the series and not knowing what to expect, I was thinking it'd be more grounded, a more realistic fantasy. So I was a little put off by the over-the-top elements: angels and demons working together, inter-dimensional travel as easy as crossing the street and utopian shifter societies.

All the same old PNR cliches apply here, almost to a beat. Uber hot alpha male with no flaws whatsoever meets a winsome, virgin girl who's clearly his soulmate because reasons, etc and so forth. Virgin Girl hasn't been or done anything outside of her clan yet somehow manages to beat down the older, stronger competition for her new man. Because strawberries. At least she didn't fall head over heels for him at first blush- she waited until he didn't want to kill a she-bear protecting her cubs before she fell into his arms. Ok. Story's practically non-existent: no struggle, no obstacles, no nothing. The wolves pack up and plane shift to their new home with nary a fuss or a conflict and everything's just peachy, including the sex. Now Liulf just has to get Rain into his bed and it's a party.

For fans of the series, it looks to be keeping in the spirit of things. For those looking for a light, easy PNR read... your mileage may vary.

Merged review:

***Disclaimer: I was provided a free copy in exchange for a review.***

Being new to the series and not knowing what to expect, I was thinking it'd be more grounded, a more realistic fantasy. So I was a little put off by the over-the-top elements: angels and demons working together, inter-dimensional travel as easy as crossing the street and utopian shifter societies.

All the same old PNR cliches apply here, almost to a beat. Uber hot alpha male with no flaws whatsoever meets a winsome, virgin girl who's clearly his soulmate because reasons, etc and so forth. Virgin Girl hasn't been or done anything outside of her clan yet somehow manages to beat down the older, stronger competition for her new man. Because strawberries. At least she didn't fall head over heels for him at first blush- she waited until he didn't want to kill a she-bear protecting her cubs before she fell into his arms. Ok. Story's practically non-existent: no struggle, no obstacles, no nothing. The wolves pack up and plane shift to their new home with nary a fuss or a conflict and everything's just peachy, including the sex. Now Liulf just has to get Rain into his bed and it's a party.

For fans of the series, it looks to be keeping in the spirit of things. For those looking for a light, easy PNR read... your mileage may vary.
]]> Dragon Age: Last Flight 21901277 304 Liane Merciel 1466831340 John 2 4.05 2014 Dragon Age: Last Flight
author: Liane Merciel
name: John
average rating: 4.05
book published: 2014
rating: 2
read at:
date added: 2024/09/16
shelves: fantasy, fiction, game-based, own, dragon-age
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Tempered (Daughters of the People, #3.5)]]> 24162337
Hawthorne's blunt words and lithe grace intrigue Aaron, enough for him to take her up on the offer of sharing her bed. Before he knows it, his heart begins the fall into love, a fall he's willing to take if only he can persuade Hawthorne that she isn't a two thousand year old immortal descended from one of the most ruthless warriors in British history.

The past isn't the only obstacle standing in the way of true love. The Eternal Order is on the move, targeting key members of the People in their never-ending quest to extinguish the Light. Hawthorne soon learns that a strong arm and a sharp blade aren't always the best weapons in a Daughter's arsenal, especially when her heart is involved.

Daughters of the People: Immortal Amazons unjustly cursed, struggling to save their People, and their hearts.

Author's Note: Tempered is Book 3.5 in the Daughters of the People Series.]]> 292 Lucy Varna 0990773027 John 3
Coming into a series mid-way is always a gamble since you really don't know what's going on. This book doesn't let that happen; it's easily readable as a stand-alone and provides more than enough info to keep you in the loop.

As a Daughter of the People, Hawthorn is cursed with immortality until she can find a man to truly love and trust (known as Surrendering Her Will), which will break the curse and render her mortal. Along comes Aaron- an illustrator she meets at a Con and has an instant connection with. Sparks and clothes fly, Aaron is clearly smitten and Hawthorn likes him too- enough that she begins to wonder if there could be more- provided he can come to terms with the whole Immortality thing. Plus there's a Prophecy involved stating that all the Daughters eventually become mortal but there's dissent amongst the ranks with those who see their immortality as a gift and are very reluctant to relinquish it. And will take any steps they deem necessary to protect it.

The only real issue I had here was Hawthorn's speech patterns. I liked her a lot but characterization aside, her deliberate, clinical way of speaking often knocked me out of the romantic, sexy scenes: nothing kills the mood like a woman asking a man to 'copulate', etc. Repeatedly. It's like the poor guy was banging a Terminator. Aside from that, even though it's basically a romance novel it's also UF, so I was hoping for more action.

Tempered is the kind of book that makes you want to read the rest of the series. What's better than that?

Merged review:

***Disclaimer: I received a free copy in exchange for a review.***

Coming into a series mid-way is always a gamble since you really don't know what's going on. This book doesn't let that happen; it's easily readable as a stand-alone and provides more than enough info to keep you in the loop.

As a Daughter of the People, Hawthorn is cursed with immortality until she can find a man to truly love and trust (known as Surrendering Her Will), which will break the curse and render her mortal. Along comes Aaron- an illustrator she meets at a Con and has an instant connection with. Sparks and clothes fly, Aaron is clearly smitten and Hawthorn likes him too- enough that she begins to wonder if there could be more- provided he can come to terms with the whole Immortality thing. Plus there's a Prophecy involved stating that all the Daughters eventually become mortal but there's dissent amongst the ranks with those who see their immortality as a gift and are very reluctant to relinquish it. And will take any steps they deem necessary to protect it.

The only real issue I had here was Hawthorn's speech patterns. I liked her a lot but characterization aside, her deliberate, clinical way of speaking often knocked me out of the romantic, sexy scenes: nothing kills the mood like a woman asking a man to 'copulate', etc. Repeatedly. It's like the poor guy was banging a Terminator. Aside from that, even though it's basically a romance novel it's also UF, so I was hoping for more action.

Tempered is the kind of book that makes you want to read the rest of the series. What's better than that?]]> 4.23 2014 Tempered (Daughters of the People, #3.5)
author: Lucy Varna
name: John
average rating: 4.23
book published: 2014
rating: 3
read at: 2014/12/19
date added: 2024/07/29
shelves: fiction, own, romance, series, supernatural, urban-fantasy
review:
***Disclaimer: I received a free copy in exchange for a review.***

Coming into a series mid-way is always a gamble since you really don't know what's going on. This book doesn't let that happen; it's easily readable as a stand-alone and provides more than enough info to keep you in the loop.

As a Daughter of the People, Hawthorn is cursed with immortality until she can find a man to truly love and trust (known as Surrendering Her Will), which will break the curse and render her mortal. Along comes Aaron- an illustrator she meets at a Con and has an instant connection with. Sparks and clothes fly, Aaron is clearly smitten and Hawthorn likes him too- enough that she begins to wonder if there could be more- provided he can come to terms with the whole Immortality thing. Plus there's a Prophecy involved stating that all the Daughters eventually become mortal but there's dissent amongst the ranks with those who see their immortality as a gift and are very reluctant to relinquish it. And will take any steps they deem necessary to protect it.

The only real issue I had here was Hawthorn's speech patterns. I liked her a lot but characterization aside, her deliberate, clinical way of speaking often knocked me out of the romantic, sexy scenes: nothing kills the mood like a woman asking a man to 'copulate', etc. Repeatedly. It's like the poor guy was banging a Terminator. Aside from that, even though it's basically a romance novel it's also UF, so I was hoping for more action.

Tempered is the kind of book that makes you want to read the rest of the series. What's better than that?

Merged review:

***Disclaimer: I received a free copy in exchange for a review.***

Coming into a series mid-way is always a gamble since you really don't know what's going on. This book doesn't let that happen; it's easily readable as a stand-alone and provides more than enough info to keep you in the loop.

As a Daughter of the People, Hawthorn is cursed with immortality until she can find a man to truly love and trust (known as Surrendering Her Will), which will break the curse and render her mortal. Along comes Aaron- an illustrator she meets at a Con and has an instant connection with. Sparks and clothes fly, Aaron is clearly smitten and Hawthorn likes him too- enough that she begins to wonder if there could be more- provided he can come to terms with the whole Immortality thing. Plus there's a Prophecy involved stating that all the Daughters eventually become mortal but there's dissent amongst the ranks with those who see their immortality as a gift and are very reluctant to relinquish it. And will take any steps they deem necessary to protect it.

The only real issue I had here was Hawthorn's speech patterns. I liked her a lot but characterization aside, her deliberate, clinical way of speaking often knocked me out of the romantic, sexy scenes: nothing kills the mood like a woman asking a man to 'copulate', etc. Repeatedly. It's like the poor guy was banging a Terminator. Aside from that, even though it's basically a romance novel it's also UF, so I was hoping for more action.

Tempered is the kind of book that makes you want to read the rest of the series. What's better than that?
]]> <![CDATA[Fish Wielder (The Emperor of the Bracelet Trilogy #1)]]> 45871651
In ancient times, the Dark Lord Mauron cooked the most powerful magic chocolate dessert ever made, the Pudding of Power. One thousand and two years later, the evil leader of the Bad Religion, the Heartless One, is trying to recover the lost pudding in order to enslave the peoples of Grome. Only the depressed barbarian warrior Thoral Might Fist and his best friend, Brad the talking Koi fish, have a chance to save the world of Grome from destruction, but that's going to take a ridiculous amount of magic and mayhem. Thus begins the epically silly epic fantasy of epic proportions, Fish Wielder—book one of the Fish Wielder Trilogy.]]> 254 J.R.R.R. (Jim) Hardison 0996894322 John 5 4.44 2016 Fish Wielder (The Emperor of the Bracelet Trilogy #1)
author: J.R.R.R. (Jim) Hardison
name: John
average rating: 4.44
book published: 2016
rating: 5
read at: 2016/08/25
date added: 2024/07/23
shelves:
review:

]]> <![CDATA[The Killing Dance (Anita Blake, Vampire Hunter, #6)]]> 30244 368 Laurell K. Hamilton 0425209067 John 2 4.14 1997 The Killing Dance (Anita Blake, Vampire Hunter, #6)
author: Laurell K. Hamilton
name: John
average rating: 4.14
book published: 1997
rating: 2
read at:
date added: 2023/10/21
shelves:
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Here Comes the Witch (Main Street Witches, #1)]]> 31846303
Kat Ramos has a quite a to-do list. The Manhattan jewelry designer wants to open her own shop, but she’s running short of funds. That’s when she receives a very intriguing proposition—to travel to the very haunted and extremely quirky Virginia town of Banshee Creek and help undo the deadly Hagen House curse.

In order to so, however, she must marry handsome haunted house contractor (yes, that’s a real career in Banshee Creek) Liam Hagen, manage a mysterious magical store, solve a centuries-old murder, and embrace her witchy heritage. Will Kat prevail, or will the Hagen Curse claim one last victim?]]> 172 Ani Gonzalez John 2
“Let me get this straight: you want to film a Caribbean Santeria ritual that aims to exorcise an Italian ghost during a Chinese ancestor festival?� The plot in a nutshell.

What's Good: like it says, it's a light, cozy (sorta) mystery. Lots of pop culture references, one-liners and more mythological name dropping & wiccan terminology than you can shake a stick at. As a spinoff from the Banshee Creek series, the characters and setting should be readily familiar to those fans.

The PRoVE crew (Paranormal Research of Virginia Enterprises) were a fun & funny bunch- think of them as the town's version of Mythbusters. You'll enjoy whenever they make an appearance. I also liked the diversity of the town; lots of myth and lore from across the world and a studious avoidance of the same old stale Wiccan-only focus.

Amy Chan, proprietor of the local chinese restaurant, was the best character and needed much more screentime. Hopefully this'll happen in future books.

What's Bad: see above. Even though it's a spinoff, so much is invested in building up the backstory, characters and squeezing in more magickal mumbo-jumbo than necessary it comes damn close to putting you off. There's a limit to this kind of stuff; a lot of it felt like filler to pad things out because there isn't a whole lot to this 'mystery' and curse- like an Anita Blake novel, after all the buildup the main plot gets wrapped up and fizzles out in about two pages.

Theres's no actual sex in the book, just lots of kissing and attempts at building sexual tension. Attempts.

The main characters were inconsistent; they know everything about everything that's going on... except when they don't. Main man Liam is as sharp as a crayon. He knows he’s supposed to complete all the traditional marriage rituals in order to break the curse yet doesn’t seem to realize this includes giving someone a chance to object to the wedding, carrying his bride over the threshold of the house, kissing the bride and of course- consummating the marriage. Really? Because everyone else in the town knew all that.

The female lead, Kat, ain't a whole lot better- she didn't think of any of that stuff, either. The moment she meets Yolanda (Yoda), she immediately recognizes all the paraphenalia she's wearing and which gods it's dedicated to, yet she doesn't know jack all about casting spells and magic. She literally resorts to books like Wiccan for Dummies and Witchcraft 101 to break the curse on the house. Huh?

And it's odd that a place that's such a hotbed for verified paranormal activity that it's become a tourist spot, there's no governmental agency to monitor things. But maybe that's just me overthinking things.

What's Left: there's lots to like and lots to scratch your head about. It gets bogged down under its own weight, which is odd for a cozy. Think of it as a book version of an episode of Bewitched or I Dream of Jeannie.

Merged review:

***Disclosure: I received a free copy in exchange for a review.***

“Let me get this straight: you want to film a Caribbean Santeria ritual that aims to exorcise an Italian ghost during a Chinese ancestor festival?� The plot in a nutshell.

What's Good: like it says, it's a light, cozy (sorta) mystery. Lots of pop culture references, one-liners and more mythological name dropping & wiccan terminology than you can shake a stick at. As a spinoff from the Banshee Creek series, the characters and setting should be readily familiar to those fans.

The PRoVE crew (Paranormal Research of Virginia Enterprises) were a fun & funny bunch- think of them as the town's version of Mythbusters. You'll enjoy whenever they make an appearance. I also liked the diversity of the town; lots of myth and lore from across the world and a studious avoidance of the same old stale Wiccan-only focus.

Amy Chan, proprietor of the local chinese restaurant, was the best character and needed much more screentime. Hopefully this'll happen in future books.

What's Bad: see above. Even though it's a spinoff, so much is invested in building up the backstory, characters and squeezing in more magickal mumbo-jumbo than necessary it comes damn close to putting you off. There's a limit to this kind of stuff; a lot of it felt like filler to pad things out because there isn't a whole lot to this 'mystery' and curse- like an Anita Blake novel, after all the buildup the main plot gets wrapped up and fizzles out in about two pages.

Theres's no actual sex in the book, just lots of kissing and attempts at building sexual tension. Attempts.

The main characters were inconsistent; they know everything about everything that's going on... except when they don't. Main man Liam is as sharp as a crayon. He knows he’s supposed to complete all the traditional marriage rituals in order to break the curse yet doesn’t seem to realize this includes giving someone a chance to object to the wedding, carrying his bride over the threshold of the house, kissing the bride and of course- consummating the marriage. Really? Because everyone else in the town knew all that.

The female lead, Kat, ain't a whole lot better- she didn't think of any of that stuff, either. The moment she meets Yolanda (Yoda), she immediately recognizes all the paraphenalia she's wearing and which gods it's dedicated to, yet she doesn't know jack all about casting spells and magic. She literally resorts to books like Wiccan for Dummies and Witchcraft 101 to break the curse on the house. Huh?

And it's odd that a place that's such a hotbed for verified paranormal activity that it's become a tourist spot, there's no governmental agency to monitor things. But maybe that's just me overthinking things.

What's Left: there's lots to like and lots to scratch your head about. It gets bogged down under its own weight, which is odd for a cozy. Think of it as a book version of an episode of Bewitched or I Dream of Jeannie.]]> 4.29 2016 Here Comes the Witch (Main Street Witches, #1)
author: Ani Gonzalez
name: John
average rating: 4.29
book published: 2016
rating: 2
read at: 2016/09/13
date added: 2023/09/08
shelves: mystery, new-release, own, paranormal-romance, supernatural, urban-fantasy
review:
***Disclosure: I received a free copy in exchange for a review.***

“Let me get this straight: you want to film a Caribbean Santeria ritual that aims to exorcise an Italian ghost during a Chinese ancestor festival?� The plot in a nutshell.

What's Good: like it says, it's a light, cozy (sorta) mystery. Lots of pop culture references, one-liners and more mythological name dropping & wiccan terminology than you can shake a stick at. As a spinoff from the Banshee Creek series, the characters and setting should be readily familiar to those fans.

The PRoVE crew (Paranormal Research of Virginia Enterprises) were a fun & funny bunch- think of them as the town's version of Mythbusters. You'll enjoy whenever they make an appearance. I also liked the diversity of the town; lots of myth and lore from across the world and a studious avoidance of the same old stale Wiccan-only focus.

Amy Chan, proprietor of the local chinese restaurant, was the best character and needed much more screentime. Hopefully this'll happen in future books.

What's Bad: see above. Even though it's a spinoff, so much is invested in building up the backstory, characters and squeezing in more magickal mumbo-jumbo than necessary it comes damn close to putting you off. There's a limit to this kind of stuff; a lot of it felt like filler to pad things out because there isn't a whole lot to this 'mystery' and curse- like an Anita Blake novel, after all the buildup the main plot gets wrapped up and fizzles out in about two pages.

Theres's no actual sex in the book, just lots of kissing and attempts at building sexual tension. Attempts.

The main characters were inconsistent; they know everything about everything that's going on... except when they don't. Main man Liam is as sharp as a crayon. He knows he’s supposed to complete all the traditional marriage rituals in order to break the curse yet doesn’t seem to realize this includes giving someone a chance to object to the wedding, carrying his bride over the threshold of the house, kissing the bride and of course- consummating the marriage. Really? Because everyone else in the town knew all that.

The female lead, Kat, ain't a whole lot better- she didn't think of any of that stuff, either. The moment she meets Yolanda (Yoda), she immediately recognizes all the paraphenalia she's wearing and which gods it's dedicated to, yet she doesn't know jack all about casting spells and magic. She literally resorts to books like Wiccan for Dummies and Witchcraft 101 to break the curse on the house. Huh?

And it's odd that a place that's such a hotbed for verified paranormal activity that it's become a tourist spot, there's no governmental agency to monitor things. But maybe that's just me overthinking things.

What's Left: there's lots to like and lots to scratch your head about. It gets bogged down under its own weight, which is odd for a cozy. Think of it as a book version of an episode of Bewitched or I Dream of Jeannie.

Merged review:

***Disclosure: I received a free copy in exchange for a review.***

“Let me get this straight: you want to film a Caribbean Santeria ritual that aims to exorcise an Italian ghost during a Chinese ancestor festival?� The plot in a nutshell.

What's Good: like it says, it's a light, cozy (sorta) mystery. Lots of pop culture references, one-liners and more mythological name dropping & wiccan terminology than you can shake a stick at. As a spinoff from the Banshee Creek series, the characters and setting should be readily familiar to those fans.

The PRoVE crew (Paranormal Research of Virginia Enterprises) were a fun & funny bunch- think of them as the town's version of Mythbusters. You'll enjoy whenever they make an appearance. I also liked the diversity of the town; lots of myth and lore from across the world and a studious avoidance of the same old stale Wiccan-only focus.

Amy Chan, proprietor of the local chinese restaurant, was the best character and needed much more screentime. Hopefully this'll happen in future books.

What's Bad: see above. Even though it's a spinoff, so much is invested in building up the backstory, characters and squeezing in more magickal mumbo-jumbo than necessary it comes damn close to putting you off. There's a limit to this kind of stuff; a lot of it felt like filler to pad things out because there isn't a whole lot to this 'mystery' and curse- like an Anita Blake novel, after all the buildup the main plot gets wrapped up and fizzles out in about two pages.

Theres's no actual sex in the book, just lots of kissing and attempts at building sexual tension. Attempts.

The main characters were inconsistent; they know everything about everything that's going on... except when they don't. Main man Liam is as sharp as a crayon. He knows he’s supposed to complete all the traditional marriage rituals in order to break the curse yet doesn’t seem to realize this includes giving someone a chance to object to the wedding, carrying his bride over the threshold of the house, kissing the bride and of course- consummating the marriage. Really? Because everyone else in the town knew all that.

The female lead, Kat, ain't a whole lot better- she didn't think of any of that stuff, either. The moment she meets Yolanda (Yoda), she immediately recognizes all the paraphenalia she's wearing and which gods it's dedicated to, yet she doesn't know jack all about casting spells and magic. She literally resorts to books like Wiccan for Dummies and Witchcraft 101 to break the curse on the house. Huh?

And it's odd that a place that's such a hotbed for verified paranormal activity that it's become a tourist spot, there's no governmental agency to monitor things. But maybe that's just me overthinking things.

What's Left: there's lots to like and lots to scratch your head about. It gets bogged down under its own weight, which is odd for a cozy. Think of it as a book version of an episode of Bewitched or I Dream of Jeannie.
]]> <![CDATA[Knights of Stone: Mason (Highland Gargoyles, #1)]]> 23344250
For several nights, Mason has kept watch for the pixie-like female. He plans to seduce her, thinking she’s a visitor from another island. When he discovers she’s one of the tree witches, he retreats, attempting to keep his distance. The temptation is strong, but forbidden.

Kayla and Mason attempt to meet in secret, but other elements on the isle command their attention. A magical cloak created by the three clans on the island is thinning, leading to repercussions for all the clans. Kayla and Mason are caught in the middle of it, and their actions may change the fate for all.

This novella was originally releases as part of the Highland Shifters paranormal romance boxed set. 18+ due to adult content.]]> 100 Lisa Carlisle John 0 3.82 2014 Knights of Stone: Mason (Highland Gargoyles, #1)
author: Lisa Carlisle
name: John
average rating: 3.82
book published: 2014
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2023/01/08
shelves:
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Autumn Chaos (Season's War, #1)]]> 61244453 A mystery of a monster on the rampage ignites the passionate love triangle between a witch and two warriors with a help of a mysterious cat.

After ten years of peaceful solitude, exiled-mage-turned-village-witch, Lady Inanuan of Thorn, has her life turned upside down when a half-dead warrior is dumped on her doorstep. Soon she learns that no good deed goes unpunished in the Black Forest—not even if your friend is Leshy, the Forest God himself.

Expelled from her position as a court mage for her sharp tongue, Ina’s had ten years to learn how to survive in a harsh environment. The forbidden healing she performs links her life energy with her unexpected guest Marcach, captain of the guards, and Ren, his best friend, a traveller from lands so far away that many consider them a myth.

With unnatural monsters on the loose and unrest in the capital, everything points toward rebellion, and clues that both men discover indicate Ina’s involvement. Ina learns her magic is not what it seems, and her past comes back to haunt her.
An old mistake will see her dragged back to the court and thrown right into the middle of the political struggle. To make things worse, her heart succumbs not to just one man but two, and each expects the worst of her.

Will the woman who does not believe in love be able to choose? And can she clear her name and learn to control the Chaos before it burns the kingdom down?]]> 353 Olena Nikitin 1999886119 John 0 to-read 4.02 2022 Autumn Chaos (Season's War, #1)
author: Olena Nikitin
name: John
average rating: 4.02
book published: 2022
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2022/11/07
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> Henge (Le Fay #1) 26867719 332 Realm Lovejoy 1503258386 John 4
Henge is a reimagining of King Arthur and Camelot set in modern times, told from Morgan le Fay's POV. Magic and technology exist side by side, but not necessarily hand in hand. Magic is confined to six schools of discipline- and only four of those make an appearance in this, the first novel of the series.

Magic, once a respected and powerful ability, is now illegal without a license and any who can use it are relegated to second-class citizenry, barely able to earn a living in the entertainment industry doing special effects. But it does make them eligible to serve at Camelot... In fact, those chosen for the royal court are selected via an American Idol-style competition- held after the heir's thirteenth birthday to pick those who'll serve the monarch when he takes the throne. Then they spend what amounts to a year at finishing school where the highest competition is to become the Maven- essentially the king's right hand man. Imagine being selected to become the future king's closest companion and advisor as well as a defender of the realm... and you're barely able to shave, let alone had your first kiss.

Arthur, Guinevere, Uther, Igraine, Tristan, Isolde, Lancelot, Mordred- the gang's all here, just in different forms. Morgan's story is not what you've come to know. Her history is troubling, intriguing and intimately entangled with the current state of affairs at court. Morgan's struggles and agnst are palpable- she's a very sympathetic character. You'll absolutely feel for her struggles and want her to succeed.

The story gets muddled and convoluted at times; there's several plots afoot and nearly everyone's got something to hide- Merlin especially so. He clearly knows more than he lets on and you're never sure if he's friend or foe. Morgan definitely isn't.

Henge is an entertaining and engaging read, despite it's flaws. It's a layered, tightly-knit story filled with small moments that have great impact. My only real complaints are that since it's YA the rush to get them through school and into life at Court diminishes the importance of things. Aside from that, Henge deserves a place on your shelf.

]]> 3.94 2014 Henge (Le Fay #1)
author: Realm Lovejoy
name: John
average rating: 3.94
book published: 2014
rating: 4
read at: 2014/11/24
date added: 2020/02/03
shelves: fantasy, fiction, mythology-based, new-release, own, series, urban-fantasy, ya
review:
***Disclaimer: I received a free copy in exchange for a review.***

Henge is a reimagining of King Arthur and Camelot set in modern times, told from Morgan le Fay's POV. Magic and technology exist side by side, but not necessarily hand in hand. Magic is confined to six schools of discipline- and only four of those make an appearance in this, the first novel of the series.

Magic, once a respected and powerful ability, is now illegal without a license and any who can use it are relegated to second-class citizenry, barely able to earn a living in the entertainment industry doing special effects. But it does make them eligible to serve at Camelot... In fact, those chosen for the royal court are selected via an American Idol-style competition- held after the heir's thirteenth birthday to pick those who'll serve the monarch when he takes the throne. Then they spend what amounts to a year at finishing school where the highest competition is to become the Maven- essentially the king's right hand man. Imagine being selected to become the future king's closest companion and advisor as well as a defender of the realm... and you're barely able to shave, let alone had your first kiss.

Arthur, Guinevere, Uther, Igraine, Tristan, Isolde, Lancelot, Mordred- the gang's all here, just in different forms. Morgan's story is not what you've come to know. Her history is troubling, intriguing and intimately entangled with the current state of affairs at court. Morgan's struggles and agnst are palpable- she's a very sympathetic character. You'll absolutely feel for her struggles and want her to succeed.

The story gets muddled and convoluted at times; there's several plots afoot and nearly everyone's got something to hide- Merlin especially so. He clearly knows more than he lets on and you're never sure if he's friend or foe. Morgan definitely isn't.

Henge is an entertaining and engaging read, despite it's flaws. It's a layered, tightly-knit story filled with small moments that have great impact. My only real complaints are that since it's YA the rush to get them through school and into life at Court diminishes the importance of things. Aside from that, Henge deserves a place on your shelf.


]]> <![CDATA[The Rise of Kyoshi (The Kyoshi Novels, #1)]]> 41104164 442 F.C. Yee 1419735047 John 3
With so much history to deal with, the real problem comes with pigeonholing the story into a limited timeframe... ok- a 230 year lifespan ain't so limited, but key events do have to happen at certain points in time, so there's always that to deal with.Ìý

Kyoshi's journey is hardly straightforward- which seems like a prerequisite for this universe. ÌýThe twists, turns & detours that fill her path are both surprising and ordinary- some you can see coming while others will have you rereading paragraphs (whoa- did that just happen?). ÌýAnd there's plenty of twists to keep you on your toes about what comes next. ÌýNot bad.

The tone's a lot darker than I expected for a YA Avatar- also a welcome surprise. ÌýWhile AtLA didn't delve into deeper issues until the end of the series, this one remains a hazy shade of deep gray all the way through, especially when it comes to villians and other shady folks. ÌýLike all good stories, it's the villian who drives the plot and the best villains are the ones who never see themselves as such but also have a strong case to make. ÌýOr at least think they have one. Ìý

Author Yee does a good job of balancing all the characters he introduces. ÌýLike all Avatars, the masters of each discipline figure prominently in their lives and Kyoshi's circuitous path leads her towards a intriguingly diverse group of teachers. ÌýOne of whom felt like a red herring; I'm not entirely certain what's going on with this individual. ÌýÌý

Only real complaint is the LGBT aspect of the story. ÌýNot really being into the Korra series, I've missed a lot- like her relationship with Asami- but before this I never saw anything that indicated Kyoshi was bisexual, so to me it comes off as kinda forced and trendy- like when we used to always have the token Black Friend or Sassy Gay Male. ÌýPlus the utter convenience of her Love Interest also came across as lame.

The ending's kinda anti-climatic; even though the plot of the next book is pretty much laid out you're left wondering why this one wrapped up so quickly when there seemed like there was so much more to do with it. ÌýBut I guess we'll see.]]> 4.43 2019 The Rise of Kyoshi (The Kyoshi Novels, #1)
author: F.C. Yee
name: John
average rating: 4.43
book published: 2019
rating: 3
read at: 2019/07/19
date added: 2019/07/20
shelves: asian, fantasy, lesbian-romance, new-release, own, series, ya, avatar, last-airbender, lgbt
review:
This is a monumental task in itself- taking a protagonist from a popular medium whose history has only been hinted at and bringing them to life within their own story. ÌýLiterally building them from the ground up based upon a set of cornerstones. ÌýF.C. Yee does a very fine job of presenting the tale of Kyoshi- one of the most prominent Avatars in the storyline. ÌýPreviously the only one we'd really gotten into was Roku, the Firebender who stood beside Tozin up until the Great War began. Ìý

With so much history to deal with, the real problem comes with pigeonholing the story into a limited timeframe... ok- a 230 year lifespan ain't so limited, but key events do have to happen at certain points in time, so there's always that to deal with.Ìý

Kyoshi's journey is hardly straightforward- which seems like a prerequisite for this universe. ÌýThe twists, turns & detours that fill her path are both surprising and ordinary- some you can see coming while others will have you rereading paragraphs (whoa- did that just happen?). ÌýAnd there's plenty of twists to keep you on your toes about what comes next. ÌýNot bad.

The tone's a lot darker than I expected for a YA Avatar- also a welcome surprise. ÌýWhile AtLA didn't delve into deeper issues until the end of the series, this one remains a hazy shade of deep gray all the way through, especially when it comes to villians and other shady folks. ÌýLike all good stories, it's the villian who drives the plot and the best villains are the ones who never see themselves as such but also have a strong case to make. ÌýOr at least think they have one. Ìý

Author Yee does a good job of balancing all the characters he introduces. ÌýLike all Avatars, the masters of each discipline figure prominently in their lives and Kyoshi's circuitous path leads her towards a intriguingly diverse group of teachers. ÌýOne of whom felt like a red herring; I'm not entirely certain what's going on with this individual. ÌýÌý

Only real complaint is the LGBT aspect of the story. ÌýNot really being into the Korra series, I've missed a lot- like her relationship with Asami- but before this I never saw anything that indicated Kyoshi was bisexual, so to me it comes off as kinda forced and trendy- like when we used to always have the token Black Friend or Sassy Gay Male. ÌýPlus the utter convenience of her Love Interest also came across as lame.

The ending's kinda anti-climatic; even though the plot of the next book is pretty much laid out you're left wondering why this one wrapped up so quickly when there seemed like there was so much more to do with it. ÌýBut I guess we'll see.
]]> Sophia, Princess Among Beasts 42779065 A princess who has lost her mother and father finds herself in a terrifying world that urgently needs a queen.

Sophia is smart, beautiful, and accomplished, a beloved princess devoted to the people and to reading books. The kingdom is hers, until she is plunged into a nightmarish realm populated by the awful beasts she read about as a child.

The beasts are real. And so is the great army marching on her castle. The people look to Sophia for protection. They will all perish unless she can unlock an ancient secret as profound as life and death itself.

Sophia, Princess Among Beasts is a fabulous adventure, and a stunning mystery. Here again is proof of why James Patterson is the world's most trusted storyteller.]]> 320 James Patterson 0316417475 John 1
The title derives from the way the king, his knights and even the mythical figures Sophia interacts with views the lower classes of the world- as beasts. If you thought that was too subtle, don’t worry- you’ll be hit over the head with it enough times for it to sink in.

Princess Sophia is the MarySue- the kind, gentle, entitled, clueless waif who eschews needlepoint and harp lessons for swordplay and strategy (how else can she be the heroine if she can’t kill the bad guys?) Yet she wrangles a promise on her birthday from her warrior king father to stop expanding the realm, which makes everyone else see him as weak and losing his edge. Even a mythical figure named Ares now thinks the king’s a punk and it’s time to march on his lands. On her weekly errand of mercy to the local village, Sophia’s confronted by a tall, handsome, dark haired youth named Raphael. She also learns there’s an outbreak of plague (which in all her other trips she’d somehow never heard of it)- and the scene where she contracts it is both unintentionally funny and sets up the ridiculousness of the rest of the story. I don’t want to ruin it; you really gotta read this for yourselves.

Just before the disease sets in, an assassin magically (literally) infiltrates the castle and eviscerates the king, who manages to hold on just long enough for a tearful goodbye. On her first day as Queen, Sophia sickens and dies as Ares� army marches closer.

Suddenly she’s being transported via an ogre-driven coach across the netherrealm to� wherever spirits go, I guess. But first, there’s a tender reunion with her long dead mother who makes the coach stop by� ordering them to� yet can’t stop the ogres ten minutes later from snatching her back. How’s this even possible you ask? Why’s it even happening in the first place? What the heck’s wrong with you people?

Their destination turns out to be none other than Ares� stronghold, populated by mythical creatures Sophia’s read about all her life (loves books, remember?) and several former residents of the village, including one particular tall, handsome, dark haired youth.

For some contrived reason Ares brought Sophia here to be a bride for one of his mythical buddies. Naturally, any plucky princess would refuse and a few of these entities manage to get themselves killed (!) in the wooing process by one of the competition named Reiper. Sophia slides down to the village to seek out Raphael and learns that the residents have been conscripted to fight for Ares in his next battle (take one guess). So like any plucky princess, Sophia starts teaching the locals how to fight while whispering to them about REBELLION. Ares starts losing his patience and tells her to choose someone- or else! Reiper, as it turns out, is the magical assassin who killed the king, and has determined Sophia should be his, but Sophia thinks she should be Raphael’s.

While Sophia gets chased through the castle by another of the would-be suitors, the castle gets attacked by the locals, who’ve decided REBELLION is a good idea. Two more suitors get killed, Ares retreats and Reiper seemingly kills Raphael. You read that right: a peasant mob storms the stronghold of a god and his retinue and runs them all off. You also read right the part about Raphael appearing to get whacked�

Oddly enough, the ogre-driven coach shows up again, and Sophia demands they take her to see her mom. After some mystical mumbo-jumbo Sophia returns to the land of the living, none the worse for wear and just in time for the arrival of Ares� army. You know the rest.

This book is completely all over the place. It’s a bunch of barely strung together set pieces that the Main Character wanders through until they reach the signpost at the end. It’s a complete insult to your intelligence and an utter waste of time. James Patterson oughta be ashamed to lend his name to something like this.]]> 3.19 2019 Sophia, Princess Among Beasts
author: James Patterson
name: John
average rating: 3.19
book published: 2019
rating: 1
read at: 2019/07/15
date added: 2019/07/15
shelves: fantasy, fiction, marysue, mythology-based, new-release, own, ya
review:
This is one of those books that seemed like it might be a good idea� until the author started writing it.

The title derives from the way the king, his knights and even the mythical figures Sophia interacts with views the lower classes of the world- as beasts. If you thought that was too subtle, don’t worry- you’ll be hit over the head with it enough times for it to sink in.

Princess Sophia is the MarySue- the kind, gentle, entitled, clueless waif who eschews needlepoint and harp lessons for swordplay and strategy (how else can she be the heroine if she can’t kill the bad guys?) Yet she wrangles a promise on her birthday from her warrior king father to stop expanding the realm, which makes everyone else see him as weak and losing his edge. Even a mythical figure named Ares now thinks the king’s a punk and it’s time to march on his lands. On her weekly errand of mercy to the local village, Sophia’s confronted by a tall, handsome, dark haired youth named Raphael. She also learns there’s an outbreak of plague (which in all her other trips she’d somehow never heard of it)- and the scene where she contracts it is both unintentionally funny and sets up the ridiculousness of the rest of the story. I don’t want to ruin it; you really gotta read this for yourselves.

Just before the disease sets in, an assassin magically (literally) infiltrates the castle and eviscerates the king, who manages to hold on just long enough for a tearful goodbye. On her first day as Queen, Sophia sickens and dies as Ares� army marches closer.

Suddenly she’s being transported via an ogre-driven coach across the netherrealm to� wherever spirits go, I guess. But first, there’s a tender reunion with her long dead mother who makes the coach stop by� ordering them to� yet can’t stop the ogres ten minutes later from snatching her back. How’s this even possible you ask? Why’s it even happening in the first place? What the heck’s wrong with you people?

Their destination turns out to be none other than Ares� stronghold, populated by mythical creatures Sophia’s read about all her life (loves books, remember?) and several former residents of the village, including one particular tall, handsome, dark haired youth.

For some contrived reason Ares brought Sophia here to be a bride for one of his mythical buddies. Naturally, any plucky princess would refuse and a few of these entities manage to get themselves killed (!) in the wooing process by one of the competition named Reiper. Sophia slides down to the village to seek out Raphael and learns that the residents have been conscripted to fight for Ares in his next battle (take one guess). So like any plucky princess, Sophia starts teaching the locals how to fight while whispering to them about REBELLION. Ares starts losing his patience and tells her to choose someone- or else! Reiper, as it turns out, is the magical assassin who killed the king, and has determined Sophia should be his, but Sophia thinks she should be Raphael’s.

While Sophia gets chased through the castle by another of the would-be suitors, the castle gets attacked by the locals, who’ve decided REBELLION is a good idea. Two more suitors get killed, Ares retreats and Reiper seemingly kills Raphael. You read that right: a peasant mob storms the stronghold of a god and his retinue and runs them all off. You also read right the part about Raphael appearing to get whacked�

Oddly enough, the ogre-driven coach shows up again, and Sophia demands they take her to see her mom. After some mystical mumbo-jumbo Sophia returns to the land of the living, none the worse for wear and just in time for the arrival of Ares� army. You know the rest.

This book is completely all over the place. It’s a bunch of barely strung together set pieces that the Main Character wanders through until they reach the signpost at the end. It’s a complete insult to your intelligence and an utter waste of time. James Patterson oughta be ashamed to lend his name to something like this.
]]> <![CDATA[The Priory of the Orange Tree (The Roots of Chaos, #1)]]> 29774026 A world divided.
A queendom without an heir.
An ancient enemy awakens.

The House of Berethnet has ruled Inys for a thousand years. Still unwed, Queen Sabran the Ninth must conceive a daughter to protect her realm from destruction—but assassins are getting closer to her door.

Ead Duryan is an outsider at court. Though she has risen to the position of lady-in-waiting, she is loyal to a hidden society of mages. Ead keeps a watchful eye on Sabran, secretly protecting her with forbidden magic.

Across the dark sea, Tané has trained all her life to be a dragonrider, but is forced to make a choice that could see her life unravel.

Meanwhile, the divided East and West refuse to parley, and forces of chaos are rising from their sleep.]]> 848 Samantha Shannon John 5 Epic Fantasy is always dicey when it comes to being 'epic'. ÌýIt has to be on a time-stretching, world-encompassing scale comprised of the culmination of a series of events that will crack the pillars of the society and decide the fates of all civilizations as it sweeps up folks from all known realms in its wake, a wake not all parties will survive and those that do are forever changed.

Is this an Epic Fantasy?Ìý

Yeah, baby!Ìý

The story's told via shifting perspectives among four protagonists: Ead, a lady-in-waiting to the queen who's much more that she seems & whose tale drives the story. ÌýEad is a mage, a practitioner of forbidden magics & devotee of mysteries learned at the titular location- the Priory. ÌýThough their misson is the same as that of most other nations- preparing for the inevitable return of the Nameless One- they see themselves as the true keepers of the faith that the western realms have warped & misunderstood. Ìý

Arteloth Beck (Loth), a noble at Queen Sabran's court who's a lifelong friend to both her & Ead. ÌýHis sister, Margaret, and he have also been close friends with Ead since she arrived at court. ÌýThose friendships place him in great political jeopardy.

Tane, an initiate in House of Learning in the realm of Seiiki who becomes a dragonrider in the High Sea Guard. ÌýWe're introduced to her first and the decision she makes sets in motion events that will shake & shape the world to come.

Niclays Roos, an alchemist & anatomist exiled from Inys to the east by Queen Sabran for betraying her trust and dreams of a way to return to court. ÌýA not-so random encounter sets him on the path to do so, but at what cost?

Samantha Shannon's world-building is staggering. ÌýLike all great fantasy novels, a rich, sometimes too-detailed history breathes life into the various cultures of this world, based upon medieval European, Middle Eastern & Asian/Pacific culturesâ€� Ìýwith a cursory nod towards African ones.Ìý Just so ya know. ÌýI suggest reading through the appendixes a couple of times before diving in.

Even at over 800 pages (!), the pacing is good. ÌýAs an experienced author, Shannon moves things along pretty well; despite the level of detail and info-dumps involved there's not too many places you'll get bogged down in. ÌýAnd you can always skim & catch up later.

A universal theme in the story is equality; men & women serve in all capacities across all cultures, and same-sex relationships bear no stigma whatsoever. ÌýI was struck by the implicit analogy between the dominant religion of the west- Virtudom- and Christianity. ÌýVirtudom, as the name implies, is literally the principles of Knighthood that have been morphed from doctrines into dogma, with each Virtue embodied by a Duke sworn to uphold its tenets. The comparisons are readily apparent and unfold as the story progresses, as well as the ultimate mystery of how it all began and splintered from its origins, origins which the Priory and its allies still hold to. ÌýThere's also Virtudom's absolute security in their righteousness & their willingness to 'spread the gospel' to the infidels of the East, the Nameless One's similarities to Satan (including being bound for a thousand years), his minions doing his work in spreading fear & chaos across the world, corrupting world leaders from the true faith... and what happens when that faith becomes shaken and revealed for what it is- all interwoven into the fabric of the story. Ìý

As there are only thirty-six plots, the details are what matters to any story. ÌýIt's not the destination, but the journey. ÌýThis journey isn't a family vacation; it's that road trip with your buddies where you get tattoos only your spouses are allowed to see and do legally questionable things in five different languages. ÌýThe intro with Tane starts small, almost incidentally, but Ead's sparks your interest and lays the foundation for things to come.

But it's not all wine & roses (or beer & pizza, depending upon your tastes). ÌýOne key failing is in the side characters & romantic relationships. ÌýAfter a while you can tell when the GoT-style moments are gonna happen where key figures need to be cut off from their support & safety nets to help drive their story arcs.Ìý Kind of a cheap device when you can see who’s gonna get whacked, but in fairness there's a few I was expecting to go that didn't.

The characters in the story really shine. ÌýEad, Tane, Nicklays & Loth are all complex individuals, shaped and motivated by their ambitions, faith, fears, darkness & dreams to see them through. ÌýThe secondary characters are no less developed, just secondary. Queen Sabran is someone you'll cheer for as you get to know her; I even had some empathy for Seyton Combe, the Duke of Courtesy aka the Night Hawk, spymaster of Inys. Igrain Crest, the Duchess of Justice, is also an intriguing figure as her story progressed. They're all not so much heroes and villains as they're people, which is what it's all about. And you'll enjoy getting to know them, even as you dislike some of them.

Relationships between the characters is also a real strong point. ÌýSome are familiar with each other, some casual acquaintances and others lifelong friends. ÌýAll four protagonists are organically connected in ways they both are and aren't aware of, helping to tie things together. ÌýAs far as romances go, there's sunshine over the rainbow for some and closure for others. ÌýThe only issue I have is with the lack of focus on any straight relationships. I’ve got nothing against LGBT relationships in my reading- the ones presented here are driving forces in the story- but a couple of straight ones to dive into would’ve been nice is all I’m saying.Ìý

Word is that it’s a standalone novel, but it’s open-ended enough for a sequel and it completely deserves one.Ìý I’d call that a PR move, because there’s no way this isn’t getting a second novel.Ìý Too much is left unsaid, undone, unexplored & unresolved not to.

The Priory of the Orange Tree is a fantastic novel that'll keep you up a few nights for 'just one more chapter'. ÌýIn this GoT era this one can sit on the shelf right beside GRRM's work.Ìý

5/5 stars.]]> 4.15 2019 The Priory of the Orange Tree (The Roots of Chaos, #1)
author: Samantha Shannon
name: John
average rating: 4.15
book published: 2019
rating: 5
read at: 2019/03/04
date added: 2019/03/07
shelves: asian, fantasy, fiction, new-release, own
review:

Epic Fantasy is always dicey when it comes to being 'epic'. ÌýIt has to be on a time-stretching, world-encompassing scale comprised of the culmination of a series of events that will crack the pillars of the society and decide the fates of all civilizations as it sweeps up folks from all known realms in its wake, a wake not all parties will survive and those that do are forever changed.

Is this an Epic Fantasy?Ìý

Yeah, baby!Ìý

The story's told via shifting perspectives among four protagonists: Ead, a lady-in-waiting to the queen who's much more that she seems & whose tale drives the story. ÌýEad is a mage, a practitioner of forbidden magics & devotee of mysteries learned at the titular location- the Priory. ÌýThough their misson is the same as that of most other nations- preparing for the inevitable return of the Nameless One- they see themselves as the true keepers of the faith that the western realms have warped & misunderstood. Ìý

Arteloth Beck (Loth), a noble at Queen Sabran's court who's a lifelong friend to both her & Ead. ÌýHis sister, Margaret, and he have also been close friends with Ead since she arrived at court. ÌýThose friendships place him in great political jeopardy.

Tane, an initiate in House of Learning in the realm of Seiiki who becomes a dragonrider in the High Sea Guard. ÌýWe're introduced to her first and the decision she makes sets in motion events that will shake & shape the world to come.

Niclays Roos, an alchemist & anatomist exiled from Inys to the east by Queen Sabran for betraying her trust and dreams of a way to return to court. ÌýA not-so random encounter sets him on the path to do so, but at what cost?

Samantha Shannon's world-building is staggering. ÌýLike all great fantasy novels, a rich, sometimes too-detailed history breathes life into the various cultures of this world, based upon medieval European, Middle Eastern & Asian/Pacific culturesâ€� Ìýwith a cursory nod towards African ones.Ìý Just so ya know. ÌýI suggest reading through the appendixes a couple of times before diving in.

Even at over 800 pages (!), the pacing is good. ÌýAs an experienced author, Shannon moves things along pretty well; despite the level of detail and info-dumps involved there's not too many places you'll get bogged down in. ÌýAnd you can always skim & catch up later.

A universal theme in the story is equality; men & women serve in all capacities across all cultures, and same-sex relationships bear no stigma whatsoever. ÌýI was struck by the implicit analogy between the dominant religion of the west- Virtudom- and Christianity. ÌýVirtudom, as the name implies, is literally the principles of Knighthood that have been morphed from doctrines into dogma, with each Virtue embodied by a Duke sworn to uphold its tenets. The comparisons are readily apparent and unfold as the story progresses, as well as the ultimate mystery of how it all began and splintered from its origins, origins which the Priory and its allies still hold to. ÌýThere's also Virtudom's absolute security in their righteousness & their willingness to 'spread the gospel' to the infidels of the East, the Nameless One's similarities to Satan (including being bound for a thousand years), his minions doing his work in spreading fear & chaos across the world, corrupting world leaders from the true faith... and what happens when that faith becomes shaken and revealed for what it is- all interwoven into the fabric of the story. Ìý

As there are only thirty-six plots, the details are what matters to any story. ÌýIt's not the destination, but the journey. ÌýThis journey isn't a family vacation; it's that road trip with your buddies where you get tattoos only your spouses are allowed to see and do legally questionable things in five different languages. ÌýThe intro with Tane starts small, almost incidentally, but Ead's sparks your interest and lays the foundation for things to come.

But it's not all wine & roses (or beer & pizza, depending upon your tastes). ÌýOne key failing is in the side characters & romantic relationships. ÌýAfter a while you can tell when the GoT-style moments are gonna happen where key figures need to be cut off from their support & safety nets to help drive their story arcs.Ìý Kind of a cheap device when you can see who’s gonna get whacked, but in fairness there's a few I was expecting to go that didn't.

The characters in the story really shine. ÌýEad, Tane, Nicklays & Loth are all complex individuals, shaped and motivated by their ambitions, faith, fears, darkness & dreams to see them through. ÌýThe secondary characters are no less developed, just secondary. Queen Sabran is someone you'll cheer for as you get to know her; I even had some empathy for Seyton Combe, the Duke of Courtesy aka the Night Hawk, spymaster of Inys. Igrain Crest, the Duchess of Justice, is also an intriguing figure as her story progressed. They're all not so much heroes and villains as they're people, which is what it's all about. And you'll enjoy getting to know them, even as you dislike some of them.

Relationships between the characters is also a real strong point. ÌýSome are familiar with each other, some casual acquaintances and others lifelong friends. ÌýAll four protagonists are organically connected in ways they both are and aren't aware of, helping to tie things together. ÌýAs far as romances go, there's sunshine over the rainbow for some and closure for others. ÌýThe only issue I have is with the lack of focus on any straight relationships. I’ve got nothing against LGBT relationships in my reading- the ones presented here are driving forces in the story- but a couple of straight ones to dive into would’ve been nice is all I’m saying.Ìý

Word is that it’s a standalone novel, but it’s open-ended enough for a sequel and it completely deserves one.Ìý I’d call that a PR move, because there’s no way this isn’t getting a second novel.Ìý Too much is left unsaid, undone, unexplored & unresolved not to.

The Priory of the Orange Tree is a fantastic novel that'll keep you up a few nights for 'just one more chapter'. ÌýIn this GoT era this one can sit on the shelf right beside GRRM's work.Ìý

5/5 stars.
]]> Warrior of the Wild 39073382 How do you kill a god?

As her father's chosen heir, eighteen-year-old Rasmira has trained her whole life to become a warrior and lead her village. But when her coming-of-age trial is sabotaged and she fails the test, her father banishes her to the monster-filled wilderness with an impossible quest: to win back her honour, she must kill the oppressive god who claims tribute from the villages each year or die trying.]]> 336 Tricia Levenseller John 2
First the premise is intriguing but kinda heavy-handed... and ridiculous. ÌýA bunch of local villages have little to no contact with each other yet have so much in common: customs, language, traditions & their subjugation to the will of a powerful being. ÌýIt's explained Peruxolo just showed up one day, brought everyone to their knees with his powers & it's been downhill ever since. ÌýThey still venerate the goddess they've always prayed to- who never intervened in any of this- but this one's here, now & wants stuff.

The idea of a girl leading a village is unthinkable, yet Rasmira's father finds himself in just that situation what with having no sons in all of his brood. ÌýHis wife even feels the brunt of his disappointment for her role in all this and responds by both shunning her precocious child and seeking what she considers redemption in a very un-motherly way. Fortunately, Rasmira's sister is a master healer who's created a poultice that heals wounds almost immediately- based on properties of some of the local monsters- and packs a whole bunch of them for her before leaving. ÌýOddly enough, these come in pretty handy later on. ÌýWhew- glad we dodged that bullet.

During her exile, Rasmira meets an unlikely pair of likewise exiled boys- Iric & Soren- who've been surviving in the wild for about a year now, via their partnership. Ìý After the usual getting to know you/can we trust you process, Rasmira convinces the boys that by working together on their mattgurs, they can all go home- especially if they complete theirs first. ÌýLuckily, Iric happens to be a master at smithcraft to make their weapons & armor and Soren's a pretty darn good hunter himself with a heart as big as the world, the kind of heart a girl could learn to appreciate in a guy. ÌýWow- what are the odds of all that happening?

Being a YA novel, the three teens with skills & reasoning far beyond those of the adults bond together and manage to do what the adults failed to even attempt in hundreds of years- including bonding together just to survive in the first place. ÌýGo figure.

The concept of the mattgurs is almost incomprehensible. ÌýYou failed your Rite of Passage- now go away and die. ÌýWe'll assign you a challenge to make it look like you've got a chance to come home but, seriously- fuck off. ÌýWhy? ÌýWith almost no contact between villages, monsters all over the place and a god who demands so much tribute you need every able-bodied person on hand to meet quotas you're having trouble meeting... why would you do that?

Finding, trapping & killing the monsters to complete their quests took some work, but it's nothing anyone else couldn't have done if they'd ever so much as TRIED! ÌýGranted, solving the mystery of Peruxolo takes some effort & daring, but that's the worst part of the book: making everyone else dumb so the main characters seem smart by comparison. ÌýIt's made clear that no one's ever even attempted to before just so these three can save the day.

It's also LGBT-friendly, as Iric's open homosexuality isn't even an issue & his primary motivation is to get back to his village to reunite with the boy he loves. ÌýThe social commentary subtext feels forced seeing how same-sex relationships are normal yet women can't be warriors or leaders.

There's plenty of stuff to like here- the mystery of Peruxolo never really is one, but unearthing the details will hold your interest. ÌýAnd there's some character moments & insights that are clever and the world itself is interesting. ÌýIt just all feels like set pieces that never really fit together.

]]> 4.06 2019 Warrior of the Wild
author: Tricia Levenseller
name: John
average rating: 4.06
book published: 2019
rating: 2
read at: 2019/03/01
date added: 2019/03/06
shelves: fantasy, fiction, new-release, own, ya
review:
Lot of hit & miss here.

First the premise is intriguing but kinda heavy-handed... and ridiculous. ÌýA bunch of local villages have little to no contact with each other yet have so much in common: customs, language, traditions & their subjugation to the will of a powerful being. ÌýIt's explained Peruxolo just showed up one day, brought everyone to their knees with his powers & it's been downhill ever since. ÌýThey still venerate the goddess they've always prayed to- who never intervened in any of this- but this one's here, now & wants stuff.

The idea of a girl leading a village is unthinkable, yet Rasmira's father finds himself in just that situation what with having no sons in all of his brood. ÌýHis wife even feels the brunt of his disappointment for her role in all this and responds by both shunning her precocious child and seeking what she considers redemption in a very un-motherly way. Fortunately, Rasmira's sister is a master healer who's created a poultice that heals wounds almost immediately- based on properties of some of the local monsters- and packs a whole bunch of them for her before leaving. ÌýOddly enough, these come in pretty handy later on. ÌýWhew- glad we dodged that bullet.

During her exile, Rasmira meets an unlikely pair of likewise exiled boys- Iric & Soren- who've been surviving in the wild for about a year now, via their partnership. Ìý After the usual getting to know you/can we trust you process, Rasmira convinces the boys that by working together on their mattgurs, they can all go home- especially if they complete theirs first. ÌýLuckily, Iric happens to be a master at smithcraft to make their weapons & armor and Soren's a pretty darn good hunter himself with a heart as big as the world, the kind of heart a girl could learn to appreciate in a guy. ÌýWow- what are the odds of all that happening?

Being a YA novel, the three teens with skills & reasoning far beyond those of the adults bond together and manage to do what the adults failed to even attempt in hundreds of years- including bonding together just to survive in the first place. ÌýGo figure.

The concept of the mattgurs is almost incomprehensible. ÌýYou failed your Rite of Passage- now go away and die. ÌýWe'll assign you a challenge to make it look like you've got a chance to come home but, seriously- fuck off. ÌýWhy? ÌýWith almost no contact between villages, monsters all over the place and a god who demands so much tribute you need every able-bodied person on hand to meet quotas you're having trouble meeting... why would you do that?

Finding, trapping & killing the monsters to complete their quests took some work, but it's nothing anyone else couldn't have done if they'd ever so much as TRIED! ÌýGranted, solving the mystery of Peruxolo takes some effort & daring, but that's the worst part of the book: making everyone else dumb so the main characters seem smart by comparison. ÌýIt's made clear that no one's ever even attempted to before just so these three can save the day.

It's also LGBT-friendly, as Iric's open homosexuality isn't even an issue & his primary motivation is to get back to his village to reunite with the boy he loves. ÌýThe social commentary subtext feels forced seeing how same-sex relationships are normal yet women can't be warriors or leaders.

There's plenty of stuff to like here- the mystery of Peruxolo never really is one, but unearthing the details will hold your interest. ÌýAnd there's some character moments & insights that are clever and the world itself is interesting. ÌýIt just all feels like set pieces that never really fit together.


]]> <![CDATA[The Girl King (The Girl King, #1)]]> 35105833
Sisters Lu and Min have always known their places as the princesses of the Empire of the First the eldest, assertive Lu, will be named her father's heir and become the dynasty's first female ruler, while timid Min will lead a quiet life in Lu's shadow. Then their father names their male cousin Set the heir instead, throwing both girls' lives into chaos.

Determined to reclaim her birthright, Lu is forced to flee, leaving Min to face the volatile court alone. Lu crosses paths with Nokhai, the lone, unlikely survivor of the decimated Ashina, nomadic wolf shapeshifters. Nok never learned to shift--and he has no trust for the Empire that killed his family--but working with the princess might be the key to unlocking his true power.

As Lu and Nok form a tenuous alliance, Min's own hidden power awakens--a forbidden, deadly magic that could secure Set's reign . . . or allow her to claim the throne herself. But there can only be one Emperor, and the sisters' greatest enemy could very well turn out to be each other.

Told in three distinct points-of-view, this first book in a sweeping fantasy series weaves a story of ambition, betrayal, and sacrifice.]]> 432 Mimi Yu 1681198908 John 2 3.58 2019 The Girl King (The Girl King, #1)
author: Mimi Yu
name: John
average rating: 3.58
book published: 2019
rating: 2
read at: 2019/02/10
date added: 2019/02/10
shelves: asian, demons, fantasy, fiction, own, ya
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Read & Riot: A Pussy Riot Guide to Activism]]> 35068832 From artist, activist, and Pussy Riot founder Nadya Tolokonnikova, a guerilla guide to radical protest and joyful political resistance.

The face of modern protest is wearing a brightly colored ski mask.

Nadya Tolokonnikova, founding member of the Russian activist group Pussy Riot, is a creative activist, professional protestor, brazen feminist, shocking visual artist, and force to be reckoned with. Her spontaneous, explosive approach to political action has involved jumping over barbed wire, kissing police officers, giving guerilla performances in crowded subway cars, and going on a hunger strike to protest the abuse of prisoners. She’s been horse-whipped by police in Sochi, temporarily blinded when officers threw green paint in her eyes, and monitored by the Russian government. But what made Nadya an activist icon overnight happened on February 21, 2012, when she was arrested for performing an anti-Putin protest song in a Moscow church.

She was sent to a Russian prison for 18 months and emerged as an international symbol of radical resistance, as calls to “Free Pussy Riot� resounded around the world. With her emblematic ski mask, black lipstick, and unwavering bravery, Nadya has become an emissary of hope and optimism despite overwhelming and ugly political corruption.

Read & Riot is structured around Nadya’s ten rules for revolution (Be a pirate! Make your government shit its pants! Take back the joy!) and illustrated throughout with stunning examples from her extraordinary life and the philosophies of other revolutionary rebels throughout history. Rooted in action and going beyond the typical “call your senator� guidelines, Read & Riot gives us a refreshing model for civil disobedience, and encourages our right to question every status quo and make political action exciting—even joyful.]]> 272 Nadya Tolokonnikova 0062741594 John 4
It's a fast read and easy to digest, with each chapter (aka Rules) broken into three segments: Words, Deeds & Heroes. Words covers various topics like Questioning the Status Quo, the Prison Industrial Complex and What Putin Has to Do with Trump.

Deeds encompasses things we can all do- Dadaism, If the Kids are United, Art in Action and Pussy Riot Church (a Russian church that was more like a mini-mart or a venue hall).

Heroes explores the figures who've influenced Nadya's life and outlook- King, the Berrigan Brothers, Bell Hooks, Emmeline Pankhurst and Aleksandra Kollontai.

Equally intriguing is the recommended reading list at the end of the book, which offers up some pretty good stuff to feed your head and free your mind. ÌýIf nothing else, you'll end up with a crash course on activist ideas and a view from the front lines delivered by a person who's still there.

4/5 stars]]> 4.17 2018 Read & Riot: A Pussy Riot Guide to Activism
author: Nadya Tolokonnikova
name: John
average rating: 4.17
book published: 2018
rating: 4
read at: 2018/10/08
date added: 2018/10/08
shelves: contemporary, existential-musings, non-fiction, own, politics
review:
Written as a stream of consciousness, Nadya shares her experiences and thoughts on the state of things and how we as individuals can still have our say and try to make a difference in the world.

It's a fast read and easy to digest, with each chapter (aka Rules) broken into three segments: Words, Deeds & Heroes. Words covers various topics like Questioning the Status Quo, the Prison Industrial Complex and What Putin Has to Do with Trump.

Deeds encompasses things we can all do- Dadaism, If the Kids are United, Art in Action and Pussy Riot Church (a Russian church that was more like a mini-mart or a venue hall).

Heroes explores the figures who've influenced Nadya's life and outlook- King, the Berrigan Brothers, Bell Hooks, Emmeline Pankhurst and Aleksandra Kollontai.

Equally intriguing is the recommended reading list at the end of the book, which offers up some pretty good stuff to feed your head and free your mind. ÌýIf nothing else, you'll end up with a crash course on activist ideas and a view from the front lines delivered by a person who's still there.

4/5 stars
]]> <![CDATA[Serpentine (Anita Blake, Vampire Hunter, #26)]]> 36971855 Vampire hunter Anita Blake has managed to overcome everything she faces. But this time there's a monster that even she doesn't know how to fight...

A remote Florida island is the perfect wedding destination for the upcoming nuptials of Anita's fellow U.S. Marshal and best friend Edward. For Anita, the vacation is a welcome break, as it's the first trip she gets to take with wereleopards Micah and Nathaniel. But it's not all fun and games and bachelor parties...

In this tropical paradise Micah discovers a horrific new form of lycanthropy, one that has afflicted a single family for generations. Believed to be the result of an ancient Greek curse, it turns human bodies into a mass of snakes.

When long-simmering resentment leads to a big blowout within the wedding party, the last thing Anita needs is more drama. But it finds her anyway when women start disappearing from the hotel, and worse--her own friends and lovers are considered the prime suspects. There's a strange power afoot that Anita has never confronted before, a force that's rendering those around her helpless in its thrall. Unable to face it on her own, Anita is willing to accept help from even the deadliest places. Help that she will most certainly regret--if she survives at all, that is...]]> 486 Laurell K. Hamilton 0425255689 John 0


I hadn’t read the last two books� actually I stopped reading the last two books about 20% in because I completely lost interest in them that fast- so when the chance arose at an early copy of this one I figured: what the hell, maybe there’s been some changes and improvement. Maybe there’s been some actual developments, revelations and repercussions from these character choices and events.

Let’s put it this way: No.

Remember all the buildup for the plot of Bullet? That assassins were gunning for Anita and the crew, and even Belle Morte was high-tailing it as fast as she could, only for the book to be about everything else but assassins? How a story featuring cold blooded killers only dedicated about 19 PAGES right smack in the middle to said murderers? How the synopsis ended up getting revised because turns out there were virtually no assassins in the book, and would’ve been false advertising to keep saying it was all about them? Well, if that was your gold standard for storytelling, if that muck thrilled you to the stars and back- boy, has Laurell got a story for you now!

I’ll give her credit; it took some serious gall to write this. She had a lotta nerve pulling this again. In a 500 page book about cursed snake people, they get mentioned in the beginning, referred to in the middle-ish and never brought up again until the finale. Take one guess what’s on the rest of the dead trees sacrificed for this drek. You got it: relationships and all the baggage they come with!

*** Mini-Spoilers Ahead***

There ain’t a K-Drama in the world that can hold a candle to this! It’s everything all the other Anita Blake books have given you the past fifteen years, yet somehow less. The paint by numbers scenes of gratuitous boob/crotch flashing, jellus haterz who deep down want to be just like Anita, hawt zexxy zex with the sweeties, fifty pages to leave town, forty pages to get to the hotel from the airport, recycled & rehashed pissing contests with cops, identifying friends from enemies by their boob size and curves, bad guys who suddenly can’t function without literally giving themselves away, rushed & compressed ending with tons of exposition in order to get back to the real story- troo wuv with the boyz. It’s all there, y’all! Knock yourselves out� or at least get a friend to do it. Not so messy that way.

The one real surprise is the return of a character we hadn’t seen in a while- Olaf. And despite being as boring and repetitive as everyone else, still manages to be creepy and somehow able to sneak a bit into Anita’s good graces. In hindsight, an appearance from him is overdue but under the circumstances you wouldn’t expect him to be there, which makes the reason for his being there utterly contrived. But given the implausibility of everything else, why the heck not? Toss in Bernardo Spotted-Horse and it makes for a reunion of the Four Horsemen, which could’ve been a tour de force, but instead plays like an investigation by Scooby-Doo & the gang. Because, yeah- the baddie would’ve gotten away with it if it weren’t for those meddling U.S. Marshals and their were-buddies.

By the time Hamilton returns to the supposed mystery/curse to solve, you flat out won’t give a flip because it hasn’t mattered in so long you forgot all about it. Far more important are the sudden appearance of Donna’s jellusy about Anita’s special bond with Edward, Donna’s BFF Dixie’s seething jellusy about the wedding, the cadre of bimbos jellus about Anita’s men, Olaf’s jellusy about Anita boitois� you might be sensing a theme here. Jellusy even has a place in the motives of the bad guy- go figure!

Another theme is Hamilton’s ridiculous fixation with superhero metaphors. Man, did she just love comparing Edward/Ted to Batman/Bruce Wayne; even Superman/Clark Kent a few times just to mix things up a bit.

No LKH novel would be complete without the sheer idiocy that’s Anita & Co- in both the classic and contemporary sense of the word. Early on they ask a particular character if they know anything about the snake curse; they deny it, only to discover in the end just how much they did know. Why such pertinent info was withheld is neither explained nor explored- just tossed in to avoid thinking something else up.

In the midst of an investigation into some missing women, Anita & co. come in contact with someone who’s obviously tied to the disappearances, but just plain fail to alert anyone about this in time to prevent other problems. Why? Why ask why.

There’s really not a lot to say about Serpentine-all the endless inanity, vapidity, vulgarity, insanity, mendacity, fragility� It’s just plain bad, lazy, dull, self-indulgent, writing. The usual, but somehow worse.

Sorry for the lack of snark. But I got nothing for this thing.]]> 3.95 2018 Serpentine (Anita Blake, Vampire Hunter, #26)
author: Laurell K. Hamilton
name: John
average rating: 3.95
book published: 2018
rating: 0
read at: 2018/08/07
date added: 2018/08/07
shelves: anita-blake, badly-behaving-author, dont-want-to-read, erotica, faries, fiction, horror, marysue, mythology-based, paranormal-romance, own, series, supernatural, teh-stoopid-it-burns, urban-fantasy, vampires, werewolves
review:
A brief note: I submitted this to Amazon literally at 3:12 AM this morning and it just went through 10 minutes ago- obviously to give all the Verified Purchase reviews exposure first. So, if you're of a mind, I'd appreciate a little voting help to push it up the list. Thanks.



I hadn’t read the last two books� actually I stopped reading the last two books about 20% in because I completely lost interest in them that fast- so when the chance arose at an early copy of this one I figured: what the hell, maybe there’s been some changes and improvement. Maybe there’s been some actual developments, revelations and repercussions from these character choices and events.

Let’s put it this way: No.

Remember all the buildup for the plot of Bullet? That assassins were gunning for Anita and the crew, and even Belle Morte was high-tailing it as fast as she could, only for the book to be about everything else but assassins? How a story featuring cold blooded killers only dedicated about 19 PAGES right smack in the middle to said murderers? How the synopsis ended up getting revised because turns out there were virtually no assassins in the book, and would’ve been false advertising to keep saying it was all about them? Well, if that was your gold standard for storytelling, if that muck thrilled you to the stars and back- boy, has Laurell got a story for you now!

I’ll give her credit; it took some serious gall to write this. She had a lotta nerve pulling this again. In a 500 page book about cursed snake people, they get mentioned in the beginning, referred to in the middle-ish and never brought up again until the finale. Take one guess what’s on the rest of the dead trees sacrificed for this drek. You got it: relationships and all the baggage they come with!

*** Mini-Spoilers Ahead***

There ain’t a K-Drama in the world that can hold a candle to this! It’s everything all the other Anita Blake books have given you the past fifteen years, yet somehow less. The paint by numbers scenes of gratuitous boob/crotch flashing, jellus haterz who deep down want to be just like Anita, hawt zexxy zex with the sweeties, fifty pages to leave town, forty pages to get to the hotel from the airport, recycled & rehashed pissing contests with cops, identifying friends from enemies by their boob size and curves, bad guys who suddenly can’t function without literally giving themselves away, rushed & compressed ending with tons of exposition in order to get back to the real story- troo wuv with the boyz. It’s all there, y’all! Knock yourselves out� or at least get a friend to do it. Not so messy that way.

The one real surprise is the return of a character we hadn’t seen in a while- Olaf. And despite being as boring and repetitive as everyone else, still manages to be creepy and somehow able to sneak a bit into Anita’s good graces. In hindsight, an appearance from him is overdue but under the circumstances you wouldn’t expect him to be there, which makes the reason for his being there utterly contrived. But given the implausibility of everything else, why the heck not? Toss in Bernardo Spotted-Horse and it makes for a reunion of the Four Horsemen, which could’ve been a tour de force, but instead plays like an investigation by Scooby-Doo & the gang. Because, yeah- the baddie would’ve gotten away with it if it weren’t for those meddling U.S. Marshals and their were-buddies.

By the time Hamilton returns to the supposed mystery/curse to solve, you flat out won’t give a flip because it hasn’t mattered in so long you forgot all about it. Far more important are the sudden appearance of Donna’s jellusy about Anita’s special bond with Edward, Donna’s BFF Dixie’s seething jellusy about the wedding, the cadre of bimbos jellus about Anita’s men, Olaf’s jellusy about Anita boitois� you might be sensing a theme here. Jellusy even has a place in the motives of the bad guy- go figure!

Another theme is Hamilton’s ridiculous fixation with superhero metaphors. Man, did she just love comparing Edward/Ted to Batman/Bruce Wayne; even Superman/Clark Kent a few times just to mix things up a bit.

No LKH novel would be complete without the sheer idiocy that’s Anita & Co- in both the classic and contemporary sense of the word. Early on they ask a particular character if they know anything about the snake curse; they deny it, only to discover in the end just how much they did know. Why such pertinent info was withheld is neither explained nor explored- just tossed in to avoid thinking something else up.

In the midst of an investigation into some missing women, Anita & co. come in contact with someone who’s obviously tied to the disappearances, but just plain fail to alert anyone about this in time to prevent other problems. Why? Why ask why.

There’s really not a lot to say about Serpentine-all the endless inanity, vapidity, vulgarity, insanity, mendacity, fragility� It’s just plain bad, lazy, dull, self-indulgent, writing. The usual, but somehow worse.

Sorry for the lack of snark. But I got nothing for this thing.
]]> <![CDATA[No Panties Fridays: Virgin On Fire - Part 2 (The Law Offices of Flipper & Mounter Series)]]> 16103074
August 12, 2011 No Panties Friday night continues in the office of Flipper and Mounter. Five professional and sexy women all locked in an office after hours, with all the wine and expensive food that they can feast on, while they share their most erotic stories ever...oh, what a night it was. I've got all the secret particulars. How ready are you to read them now?

approx. 7,800 words.

This is intended for mature audiences.

313WOOD,LLC

10% of ALL author royalties of 313WOOD,LLC Amazon Kindle books are donated to the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline, 1-800-273-TALK (8255) a 24-hour, toll-free, confidential suicide prevention hotline available to anyone in suicidal crisis or emotional distress.]]> 22 Sean H. Robertson John 0 to-read 2.25 No Panties Fridays: Virgin On Fire - Part 2 (The Law Offices of Flipper & Mounter Series)
author: Sean H. Robertson
name: John
average rating: 2.25
book published:
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2018/06/10
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> <![CDATA[No Panties Fridays -Part 1 (The Law Firm of Flipper & Mounter Series)]]> 15740142
The law firm of Flipper and Mounter is made up of one of the most successful legal teams in Michigan. In 2006, two best friends created their own legal practice to assist women in business. In 2011, they boast a client list of some of the most powerful women in the country. Because of their recent court case victory regarding a fifty million dollar contract lawsuit, Rylie Flipper and Roxy Mounter are interviewed in their law office late Friday evening on August 12, 2011, by the globally acclaimed W.I.P. (Women in Power) columnist Jennifer Knox. When the subject of their personal lives enters the conversation, which is shockingly candid in every aspect, everything hits the fan...soaked panties and all. Jennifer turns off her cell phone recorder, as the women then open up in a way that they never would’ve, had their sexual exploits been available for public consumption. However, as the understudy of Jennifer Knox, I had a hidden recording device in the heel of my shoe, which was something that she HAD NOT instructed me to do. I’ve decided to reveal what these sexy and powerful women shared that night only to you, my best friend, under my secret pseudonym:Conqueror Beast.

Length: approx. 8,300 words.

10% of ALL author royalties of Sean H. Robertson's Amazon Kindle books are donated to the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline, 1-800-273-TALK (8255) a 24-hour, toll-free, confidential suicide prevention hotline available to anyone in suicidal crisis or emotional distress.

Part 2 coming soon!]]> 28 Sean H. Robertson John 0 to-read 1.83 2012 No Panties Fridays -Part 1 (The Law Firm of Flipper & Mounter Series)
author: Sean H. Robertson
name: John
average rating: 1.83
book published: 2012
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2018/06/10
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Night-Breed: Part 1 (Cries of Vampira, #3A)]]> 12491157
Approx. 11,350 words. Download now.

Prologue

The Robertson clan Donnachaidh, sometimes known as Clan Robertson, is a Scottish clan. They lived at the Dunalastair Castle in Scotland. William Forbes Skene (1809-92), Historiographer Royal of Scotland, wrote in 1837 that: “the Robertsons of Struan are unquestionably the oldest family in Scotland, being the sole remaining branch of that Royal House of Atholl, which occupied the throne of Scotland during the eleventh and twelfth centuries.â€This is the fictional story of the Robertson’s secret, royal vampire homeland, Vampira, Scotland, and his people’s struggle to live in peace amongst their sworn enemies, the Grey Wolves, who were Scotland’s secret werewolf horde and the deadliest creatures on Earth.

10% of all royalties of this series are donated to the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline 1-800-273-TALK]]> 32 Sean H. Robertson John 0 to-read 3.25 Night-Breed: Part 1 (Cries of Vampira, #3A)
author: Sean H. Robertson
name: John
average rating: 3.25
book published:
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2018/06/10
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Night-Breed: Part 2 (Cries of Vampira, #3B)]]> 13595213
Luthias, the exiled Vampire Prince of Vampira, slowly seduces the underground realm of Catacomb City as well as the grateful heart and body of its purest maiden, Lady Sachairi.

Prologue

The Robertson clan Donnachaidh, sometimes known as Clan Robertson, is a Scottish clan. They lived at the Dunalastair Castle in Scotland. William Forbes Skene (1809-92), Historiographer Royal of Scotland, wrote in 1837 “the Robertsons of Struan are unquestionably the oldest family in Scotland, being the sole remaining branch of that Royal House of Atholl, which occupied the throne of Scotland during the eleventh and twelfth centuries.â€This is the fictional story of the Robertson’s secret, royal vampire homeland, Vampira, Scotland, and his people’s struggle to live in peace amongst their sworn enemies, the Grey Wolves, who were Scotland’s secret werewolf horde and the deadliest creatures on Earth.

10% of all royalties of this series are donated to the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline 1-800-273-TALK]]> 28 Sean H. Robertson John 0 to-read 4.00 Night-Breed: Part 2 (Cries of Vampira, #3B)
author: Sean H. Robertson
name: John
average rating: 4.00
book published:
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2018/06/10
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Descent of the Grey (Cries of Vampira #4)]]> 21425330
The Greys (Loki Luca & Pallas) are cast out of the seventh heaven. Their aim is to seduce and destroy the finest creation (Humanity) of their new enemy, 'The Great I Am.' Their chilling Werewolf behavior upon Vampires and Humans has been recorded for all to observe for generations.

Approx. 11,900 words. Download now or download the special fan discounted 'The Cries Of Vampira Saga' Complete Collection now exclusively on your Amazon Kindle.

Over 6,000 Series Downloads! 10% of all royalties of this series are donated to the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline 1-800-273-TALK]]> 40 Sean H. Robertson John 0 to-read 4.50 Descent of the Grey (Cries of Vampira #4)
author: Sean H. Robertson
name: John
average rating: 4.50
book published:
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2018/06/10
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> The Cries of Vampira 13629668 The Cries of Vampira

A beautiful & courageous teenage vampire princess sacrifices her life for her true love and her 12th century Scottish homeland: Vampira. Inspired by the Twilight saga. Download now for only $3.99!

When twenty-seven year old Alpha werewolf Gaad Grey claims his rule over his werewolf horde, he sets out for revenge against the Vampire royal family that took the lives of his parents, as he looked on in sheer disbelief at the age of ten. Now, hellbent on exacting the sheer horror he felt onto the decendants of the vampiric Robertson clan, Gaad unleashes his merciless fury on seventeen year old vampire triplets Kristin, Kylie and Kolbe, their land of Vampira, as well as upon the defenseless humans that the Vampires protect.

Will Kylie's overtures of peace and reconciliation save the land of Vampira from utter destruction? Will Kolbe mature fast enough to step out of the shadow of his father and become the king he was groomed to be? Will Kristin, the 1st heir to the throne, shed her unbridled arrogance of her talent & skills and choose to die for her kingdom, its people, as well as for her new vampire love, Jolan? Download or borrow now!]]> 258 Sean H. Robertson John 0 to-read 3.26 2009 The Cries of Vampira
author: Sean H. Robertson
name: John
average rating: 3.26
book published: 2009
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2018/06/10
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Bloodlines (Cries of Vampira #2)]]> 11050177
For Young Adults ages 14 & Up.
(Warning:Violence & Language)

You're encouraged to also download novella #1 of this series as well; 'The Cries Of Vampira:The Horror Of Gaad Grey, The Evil Alpha Werewolf.'
ASIN: B004CRTF1M (Only .99 Cents)

Both books are also available on Amazon UK as well as Amazon DE

'NIGHT-BREED: The Cries Of Vampira # 3' Part One, which is the final novella of the trilogy due to release in Sept 1, 2011.]]> 82 Sean H. Robertson John 1 3.81 Bloodlines (Cries of Vampira #2)
author: Sean H. Robertson
name: John
average rating: 3.81
book published:
rating: 1
read at:
date added: 2018/06/10
shelves:
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Heir to the Shadows (The Black Jewels, #2)]]> 47957 Librarian's note: See alternate cover for this edition here.

Enough time has passed for the young girl Jaenelle, heir to the magical Darkness, for her physical wounds to heal, while amnesia keeps her frightening memories at bay. But with Saetan--a Black-Jewelled Warlord Prince and Jaenelle's foster-father--to protect her, she will continue to grow. Her magic will mature. Her memories will return. And Jaenelle will face her destiny when she remembers Daemon, Saetan's son, who made the ultimate sacrifice for her love....]]> 482 Anne Bishop 0451456726 John 4 4.32 1999 Heir to the Shadows (The Black Jewels, #2)
author: Anne Bishop
name: John
average rating: 4.32
book published: 1999
rating: 4
read at:
date added: 2018/05/17
shelves:
review:

]]> The Lady and the Vixen 17838275 181 K.T. Grant 1607775557 John 3 erotica, historical-romance Disclaimer: I was provided a free copy in exchange for a review.

Steamy F/F sex mixes with soap opera melodrama in this little number.

The main character Lucy came off as inconstant, wavering between her desires and... I don't know what, but the author doesn't let that get in the way too long. Tisha, her new paramour, is a feisty vixen determined to get her woman, polite society be damned. Family secrets, suppressed desires, a host of lies and a scheming ex-lover are all that stand in the way of these two women finding what they need in each other.

Frisky and light, this is a good rainy day, cozy read. And may make you want to do some cozying of your own afterwards. ]]> 3.43 2013 The Lady and the Vixen
author: K.T. Grant
name: John
average rating: 3.43
book published: 2013
rating: 3
read at: 2013/06/03
date added: 2017/09/21
shelves: erotica, historical-romance
review:

Disclaimer: I was provided a free copy in exchange for a review.

Steamy F/F sex mixes with soap opera melodrama in this little number.

The main character Lucy came off as inconstant, wavering between her desires and... I don't know what, but the author doesn't let that get in the way too long. Tisha, her new paramour, is a feisty vixen determined to get her woman, polite society be damned. Family secrets, suppressed desires, a host of lies and a scheming ex-lover are all that stand in the way of these two women finding what they need in each other.

Frisky and light, this is a good rainy day, cozy read. And may make you want to do some cozying of your own afterwards.
]]> <![CDATA[Cinderella, Necromancer (Cinderella, Necromancer, #1)]]> 28117964 Cinderella, Necromancer is Chime meets Anna Dressed in Blood and was inspired by a real medieval grimoire of necromancy from 15th-century Germany.

Ellison lost her mother at an early age. But since then, her father has found love again. He's happy and doesn't quite notice that Ellison does not get along with his new wife or her mean daughters. When Ellison discovers a necromantic tome while traveling the secret passages of her father's mansion, she wonders if it could be the key to her freedom. Until then, she must master her dark new power, even as her stepmother makes her a servant in her own home. And when her younger brother falls incurably ill, Ellison will do anything to ease his pain, including falling prey to her stepmother and stepsisters' every whim and fancy.

Stumbling into a chance meeting of Prince William during a secret visit to her mother's grave feels like a trick of fate when her stepmother refuses to allow Ellison to attend a palace festival. But what if Ellison could see the kind and handsome prince once more? What if she could attend the festival? What if she could have everything she ever wanted and deserved by conjuring spirits to take revenge on her cruel stepmother?

As Ellison's power grows, she loses control over the evil spirits meant to do her bidding. And as they begin to exert their own power over Ellison, she will have to decide whether it is she or her stepmother who is the true monster.]]> 324 F.M. Boughan John 3
What’s Good: How about the opening line for starters- “Blood. The blood of my enemies drips down my forearms, fleeing the confines of the spaces between my fingers, traveling toward freedom on the cold, stone floor.� Got your attention, yet?

This is a very imaginative twist on the fairytale. Everything old is new again in this one. There’s a few homages to the classic version of the tale, but ain’t no fairy godmothers floating around here. Nope- what comes to Ella’s aid is far more disturbing and best left undisturbed. Author F.M. Boughan cites researching historical texts and grimoires on necromancy, and it shows. Well done!

The necromancy comes into play as part of the struggle between Heaven and Hell, the forces of Good vs the armies of Evil. Ella’s struggles with what she’s doing and why are valid and believable. As her power grows, she thinks she’s come to terms with the price of it, but then she realizes that price is greater than she’s willing to pay. But will she be strong enough to do so anyway?

There’s several twists on the tale that’ll keep you involved; it’s like a full-on rendering of the original Brothers Grimm version- you know, with the sisters cutting off parts of their feet in order to fit the glass slipper and whatnot. Often gory and gruesome, this one ain’t for the faint of heart.

What’s Bad: Ella’s also a bit of a dunce. The author does a good job of putting you inside Ella’s head and making her feel like a vibrant, three-dimensional character, but too many times in the story she never bothered to question anything or stop to consider the consequences of her actions. She’s got a book of demonology/necromancy in her hands, but never bothers to read any further than what she needs to get what she wants yet always wonders about the dangers of abusing such power� maybe ya ought to flip a few pages ahead and find out??? She’s constantly skulking about the house trying to sneak around her new stepmother and siblings trying to learn things, only to bump, bang into or trip over something, leading to another Steve Erkel moment, “…oh, did *I* do that?!?� After a while you can pretty much see when they’re coming up.

There’s a few WTF moments in the plot that threaten to derail things. The night Ella’s father disappears he gives her something before he leaves- literally placing it in her hand. Does she look at it right away?- no. When does she look at it? Right after she sneaks out of the house in the dead of night, crawls under the locked main gate, runs all the way through the village to her mother’s grave, calls out to her mother’s spirit, meets a mysterious stranger who protects her from some Things That Go Bump In The Night, and sees her back to the village. Only after she’s safely home again after all that does she actually OPEN HER HAND to see what it was her father gave her. *facepalm*

The disappearance of Ella’s father made almost as much sense as all that did. For storytelling purposes he had to be out of the picture, sure, but� his reasons made no sense. It’s the usual “I had to leave to protect you� nonsense, except that he’s the one who created the problem in the first place by marrying Celia and knew full well what was going on, so clearly the best solution was to leave a bunch of people- including his own children- who’ve no idea about any of it at the tender mercies of some seriously malicious individuals and hope for the best. *double facepalm*

What’s Left: an entertaining, if flawed, work that you’ll enjoy reading. If all the Fairy Tale Re-imaginings are starting to get stale to you, this one’ll be a bit of fresh air.]]> 3.81 2017 Cinderella, Necromancer (Cinderella, Necromancer, #1)
author: F.M. Boughan
name: John
average rating: 3.81
book published: 2017
rating: 3
read at: 2017/09/18
date added: 2017/09/20
shelves: fairytale-rehash, new-release, own, ya
review:
***Disclosure: I received a free copy in exchange for a review.***

What’s Good: How about the opening line for starters- “Blood. The blood of my enemies drips down my forearms, fleeing the confines of the spaces between my fingers, traveling toward freedom on the cold, stone floor.� Got your attention, yet?

This is a very imaginative twist on the fairytale. Everything old is new again in this one. There’s a few homages to the classic version of the tale, but ain’t no fairy godmothers floating around here. Nope- what comes to Ella’s aid is far more disturbing and best left undisturbed. Author F.M. Boughan cites researching historical texts and grimoires on necromancy, and it shows. Well done!

The necromancy comes into play as part of the struggle between Heaven and Hell, the forces of Good vs the armies of Evil. Ella’s struggles with what she’s doing and why are valid and believable. As her power grows, she thinks she’s come to terms with the price of it, but then she realizes that price is greater than she’s willing to pay. But will she be strong enough to do so anyway?

There’s several twists on the tale that’ll keep you involved; it’s like a full-on rendering of the original Brothers Grimm version- you know, with the sisters cutting off parts of their feet in order to fit the glass slipper and whatnot. Often gory and gruesome, this one ain’t for the faint of heart.

What’s Bad: Ella’s also a bit of a dunce. The author does a good job of putting you inside Ella’s head and making her feel like a vibrant, three-dimensional character, but too many times in the story she never bothered to question anything or stop to consider the consequences of her actions. She’s got a book of demonology/necromancy in her hands, but never bothers to read any further than what she needs to get what she wants yet always wonders about the dangers of abusing such power� maybe ya ought to flip a few pages ahead and find out??? She’s constantly skulking about the house trying to sneak around her new stepmother and siblings trying to learn things, only to bump, bang into or trip over something, leading to another Steve Erkel moment, “…oh, did *I* do that?!?� After a while you can pretty much see when they’re coming up.

There’s a few WTF moments in the plot that threaten to derail things. The night Ella’s father disappears he gives her something before he leaves- literally placing it in her hand. Does she look at it right away?- no. When does she look at it? Right after she sneaks out of the house in the dead of night, crawls under the locked main gate, runs all the way through the village to her mother’s grave, calls out to her mother’s spirit, meets a mysterious stranger who protects her from some Things That Go Bump In The Night, and sees her back to the village. Only after she’s safely home again after all that does she actually OPEN HER HAND to see what it was her father gave her. *facepalm*

The disappearance of Ella’s father made almost as much sense as all that did. For storytelling purposes he had to be out of the picture, sure, but� his reasons made no sense. It’s the usual “I had to leave to protect you� nonsense, except that he’s the one who created the problem in the first place by marrying Celia and knew full well what was going on, so clearly the best solution was to leave a bunch of people- including his own children- who’ve no idea about any of it at the tender mercies of some seriously malicious individuals and hope for the best. *double facepalm*

What’s Left: an entertaining, if flawed, work that you’ll enjoy reading. If all the Fairy Tale Re-imaginings are starting to get stale to you, this one’ll be a bit of fresh air.
]]> <![CDATA[Ariella's Escape (Stars at Zenith Trilogy #1)]]> 35609015 179 Carolee Croft 177504792X John 2
This was an odd book.

It definitely belongs in the Erotica Fantasy Romance category, even though it's not billed as such, which hurts it because if you knew that going in, you wouldn't feel so let down by it all.

What's Good: a female protagonist who swings a two-handed sword, rules her own lands and gets to make use of a sex slave while on a diplomatic mission? Heck yeah- I'm in! But that initial encounter at the start of the book is as good as it gets.

The reasons behind the assassination attempt were interesting, showing a deeper game than some of the players knew they were involved in. But it needed more development, more to invest you into it.

What's Bad: where to start? How about the stilted, overly formal way everyone speaks all the time? All that was missing was a few doses of 'yea, verily' and we'd have Shakespeare.

Or the ridiculousness of the sexual situations? Ariella gets to bang Demetrius while visiting the castle- fine. But an innkeeper who wants a live sex show in exchange for room and board... and protecting them from the soldiers chasing them? Not buying it.

Or all the @$$ pull magicks that sound like they came from an all-night D&D session? Ariella happens to possess a magic crystal that creates a yellow-brick road that lets ride over the castle walls...? And that she's descended from a line of legendary magical warriors- a lineage she never knew about- so now she's also the Chosen One? Gotta be kidding me. And that Wild Hunt-style thing with the elves... no, none of it made much sense and just felt like page filler. *smdh*

The idea behind the prophecy is kinda interesting, but clumsily handled. It reminded me of a 90's anime called X- where two people were destined to be at opposite ends of a prophecy. And no matter which path one of them decided to take the other would have to automatically oppose them. Because reasons. That's pretty much what's going on here.

What's Left: what started out as an interesting fantasy adventure with a strong female lead that devolved into some kind of teenage hormone fest that's pretty much off the rails. Not that it can't be salvaged, but I'm not sure how.

]]> 3.68 2017 Ariella's Escape (Stars at Zenith Trilogy #1)
author: Carolee Croft
name: John
average rating: 3.68
book published: 2017
rating: 2
read at: 2017/08/26
date added: 2017/09/03
shelves: erotica, fantasy, faries, fiction, new-release, own, romance
review:
***Disclosure: I was provided a free copy in exchange for a review.***

This was an odd book.

It definitely belongs in the Erotica Fantasy Romance category, even though it's not billed as such, which hurts it because if you knew that going in, you wouldn't feel so let down by it all.

What's Good: a female protagonist who swings a two-handed sword, rules her own lands and gets to make use of a sex slave while on a diplomatic mission? Heck yeah- I'm in! But that initial encounter at the start of the book is as good as it gets.

The reasons behind the assassination attempt were interesting, showing a deeper game than some of the players knew they were involved in. But it needed more development, more to invest you into it.

What's Bad: where to start? How about the stilted, overly formal way everyone speaks all the time? All that was missing was a few doses of 'yea, verily' and we'd have Shakespeare.

Or the ridiculousness of the sexual situations? Ariella gets to bang Demetrius while visiting the castle- fine. But an innkeeper who wants a live sex show in exchange for room and board... and protecting them from the soldiers chasing them? Not buying it.

Or all the @$$ pull magicks that sound like they came from an all-night D&D session? Ariella happens to possess a magic crystal that creates a yellow-brick road that lets ride over the castle walls...? And that she's descended from a line of legendary magical warriors- a lineage she never knew about- so now she's also the Chosen One? Gotta be kidding me. And that Wild Hunt-style thing with the elves... no, none of it made much sense and just felt like page filler. *smdh*

The idea behind the prophecy is kinda interesting, but clumsily handled. It reminded me of a 90's anime called X- where two people were destined to be at opposite ends of a prophecy. And no matter which path one of them decided to take the other would have to automatically oppose them. Because reasons. That's pretty much what's going on here.

What's Left: what started out as an interesting fantasy adventure with a strong female lead that devolved into some kind of teenage hormone fest that's pretty much off the rails. Not that it can't be salvaged, but I'm not sure how.


]]> Steampunk Cthulhu 22893193
So said H.P. Lovecraft in the first chapter of his most famous story, "The Call of Cthulhu" (1926). This is also the perfect introduction to Steampunk Cthulhu, for within these stories mankind has indeed voyaged too far, and scientific innovations have opened terrifying vistas of reality, with insanity and worse as the only reward.

The Steampunk genre has always incorporated elements of science fiction, fantasy, horror and alternative history, and certainly the Cthulhu Mythos has not been a stranger to Steampunk. But until now there has never been a Steampunk Cthulhu collection, so here are 18 tales unbound from the tethers of mere airships, goggles, clockwork, and tightly bound corsets; stories of horror, sci-fi, fantasy and alternative realities tainted with the Lovecraftian and the Cthulhu Mythos. Here you will discover Victorian Britain, the Wild West era United States, and many other varied locations filled with anachronistic and sometimes alien technology, airships, submersibles and Babbage engines. But the Victorian era here is not only one of innovation and exploration, but of destruction and dread.]]> 309 Brian M. Sammons 1568823940 John 4 3.73 2014 Steampunk Cthulhu
author: Brian M. Sammons
name: John
average rating: 3.73
book published: 2014
rating: 4
read at:
date added: 2017/08/14
shelves:
review:

]]> The Wayward Astronomer 34644108
Hal Adhil and Miri Rodgers are best friends. They spend their days working at a small observatory in the Starfall Mountains beyond the metropolis of Anduruna. Miri is the only person Hal trusts to understand a dangerous secret: Hal can see all wavelengths of light. Hal uses his superpower only when they are free from prying eyes that could report them to the authorities. The lives of Hal and Miri quickly change one night, however, when a meteor crashes into the nearby mountains. When they set out to retrieve the fallen star, it quickly becomes apparent that things are not what they seem. What appeared to be an ordinary meteor is in fact a strange power source that Hal and Miri are not the only ones looking for. In order to rescue his closest companion, Hal must not only unravel a mystery that has eluded his people for ages, but also face unsavory characters from his own past. Can Hal, the Wayward Astronomer, harness his supernatural powers to rescue his friend before time runs out?]]> 320 Geoffrey Thomas 099782350X John 2 fiction, mystery, own, sci-fi
Thomas� writing style picks up as the story progresses, getting tighter and crisper as the story speeds up.

The story itself is both noir-ish and naive, wholly character-driven, which I like. The protagonist, Hal, finds himself way in over his head early on and the quest for answers takes him to places he never could have forseen, both physically and personally.

What’s Bad: From the position of this being a SF story about an alien culture, it’s not. As stated in the preface, it’s an alternate reality to ours filled with anthropomorphs- funny animals. It’s like a PG-13 version of Zootopia. No hint of anything resembling alien culture, customs, language, etc- characters with names like Marcus, Hal and Jonny who say things like ‘aiight, bro� aren’t aliens. Period. You’re only reminded that they’re not human when their physical traits are mentioned and by the illustrations at the end & beginning of each chapter. Otherwise you’d never know the difference.

Dialogue and writing were kinda stilted- never really getting into a flow- with lots of overexposition and Telling, not Showing. It improved as it went along, but could’ve used another editorial pass.

The worldbuilding also lacked from a standalone reading perspective. Being dropped into a new setting with no points of reference there were things I didn’t quite understand or pick up on and had to just roll with.

What’s Left: a character study with a few interesting themes and allegories that picks up pace as it goes. Fans of the Dreamkeepers milieu should enjoy it; for the rest of us, so long as you’re aware of its failings, it’s a decent read.]]> 4.39 The Wayward Astronomer
author: Geoffrey Thomas
name: John
average rating: 4.39
book published:
rating: 2
read at: 2017/08/10
date added: 2017/08/14
shelves: fiction, mystery, own, sci-fi
review:
What’s Good: The premise is cool- denizens suddenly developing powers and abilities far beyond those of their fellow� men, and how to keep anyone from finding out because the government isn’t too happy about all these paranormals suddenly popping up all over the place. The metaphor/allegory is clear, and made for an interesting dynamic. Hal’s power is relatively benign but still useful, especially in his line of work, and its enhancements later in the story are key.

Thomas� writing style picks up as the story progresses, getting tighter and crisper as the story speeds up.

The story itself is both noir-ish and naive, wholly character-driven, which I like. The protagonist, Hal, finds himself way in over his head early on and the quest for answers takes him to places he never could have forseen, both physically and personally.

What’s Bad: From the position of this being a SF story about an alien culture, it’s not. As stated in the preface, it’s an alternate reality to ours filled with anthropomorphs- funny animals. It’s like a PG-13 version of Zootopia. No hint of anything resembling alien culture, customs, language, etc- characters with names like Marcus, Hal and Jonny who say things like ‘aiight, bro� aren’t aliens. Period. You’re only reminded that they’re not human when their physical traits are mentioned and by the illustrations at the end & beginning of each chapter. Otherwise you’d never know the difference.

Dialogue and writing were kinda stilted- never really getting into a flow- with lots of overexposition and Telling, not Showing. It improved as it went along, but could’ve used another editorial pass.

The worldbuilding also lacked from a standalone reading perspective. Being dropped into a new setting with no points of reference there were things I didn’t quite understand or pick up on and had to just roll with.

What’s Left: a character study with a few interesting themes and allegories that picks up pace as it goes. Fans of the Dreamkeepers milieu should enjoy it; for the rest of us, so long as you’re aware of its failings, it’s a decent read.
]]> <![CDATA[Royal Replicas (Royal Replicas, #1)]]> 34738102
Seventeen-year-old Victoria Sandalwood has served the Duke and Duchess all her life. Over the years, she’s learned to make do with what she has and endure her surrogate father’s awful punishments. She dreams of escape, but never expected it to come in the form of a message from the Queen of Westeria.

Victoria learns that she’s the Queen’s daughter, the younger sister to Princess Amelia, and it’s time to come home and claim her birthright. When she arrives, she discovers she’s not the only one who received the royal message.

Victoria must compete with six other girls to earn the affection of both the Queen and a princely suitor� and to replace the secretly deceased Princess Amelia. If she fails to win the crown, Victoria may just have to fight for her life�

Royal Replicas is the first book in a YA dystopian series. If you enjoy courtly intrigue, heart-pounding adventure, and sweet romance, then you’ll love this captivating story. Perfect for fans of Kiera Cass, Bella Forrest, and Veronica Roth.]]> 420 Michael Pierce John 3
Author Michael Pierce's style is brisk but not brusque; most of the time gets right to the point and has a grasp of grammar and spelling- shame nowadays that’s something you have to take note of.

The setting is in a dystopian future America built upon the salvaged infrastructure and divided into districts similar to PanEm and other works. This got a little confusing at first as the story was billed as steampunk, but it’s not.

Characters were almost cookie cutter typecast; I never really felt a link or connection to any of them, but I did enjoy their personal quirks and habits- the little touches that made them more believable. The MC, Victoria, was the standard ingénue- always reading Pride & Prejudice, but also Twilight. The cast of characters rounds out pretty much the way you’d expect in a story like this, but a few surprises emerged- such as the darker nature of Victoria’s stepfather, Duke Ramsey.

The driving conflict- to be the last girl standing- is a prime motivator, naturally. But the fun lies in some of the twists the story takes- like the clone angle- and goes a few places I didn’t expect which helped to keep things fresh. Beyond the obvious plotline, there are some wrinkles to the tale that’ll keep you interested in things. Despite some plotholes in the story, it’s pretty tight overall and a fast read that’ll entertain you for a bit with a sequel already in the works.

3.5/5 stars.]]> 3.72 2017 Royal Replicas (Royal Replicas, #1)
author: Michael Pierce
name: John
average rating: 3.72
book published: 2017
rating: 3
read at: 2017/07/31
date added: 2017/07/31
shelves: dystopia, new-release, own, romance, ya
review:
Opening line intrigues you from the start, making you want to know more. “Beatrice Ramsey stood against the wall by the bookshelf while the doctors were working on her daughter; the girl was still lying unconscious from the procedure and so peaceful lying in her bed.�

Author Michael Pierce's style is brisk but not brusque; most of the time gets right to the point and has a grasp of grammar and spelling- shame nowadays that’s something you have to take note of.

The setting is in a dystopian future America built upon the salvaged infrastructure and divided into districts similar to PanEm and other works. This got a little confusing at first as the story was billed as steampunk, but it’s not.

Characters were almost cookie cutter typecast; I never really felt a link or connection to any of them, but I did enjoy their personal quirks and habits- the little touches that made them more believable. The MC, Victoria, was the standard ingénue- always reading Pride & Prejudice, but also Twilight. The cast of characters rounds out pretty much the way you’d expect in a story like this, but a few surprises emerged- such as the darker nature of Victoria’s stepfather, Duke Ramsey.

The driving conflict- to be the last girl standing- is a prime motivator, naturally. But the fun lies in some of the twists the story takes- like the clone angle- and goes a few places I didn’t expect which helped to keep things fresh. Beyond the obvious plotline, there are some wrinkles to the tale that’ll keep you interested in things. Despite some plotholes in the story, it’s pretty tight overall and a fast read that’ll entertain you for a bit with a sequel already in the works.

3.5/5 stars.
]]> <![CDATA[Dragon's Guide to Slaying Virgins (Otherworld Realms Book 3)]]> 25750937
After dragging Lady Morgan from a Troll’s lair and dropping her off in another realm, Vallen thought he’d never see her again. But then an old member of his Knight Order betrays her oaths and begins amassing an army of thugs and highwaymen - in the same realm he’d left Morgan.

Racing back with only his brother for a squire, Vallen finds Lady Morgan, accompanied by a teenage Werewolf, ready to take on this Dragon all by herself. But it will take all of them to defeat her, and little do they know that in this battle, the secrets of their broken hearts will rise up from the past and walk again�

]]> 455 Isabelle Saint-Michael 0990866580 John 0 4.29 2015 Dragon's Guide to Slaying Virgins (Otherworld Realms Book 3)
author: Isabelle Saint-Michael
name: John
average rating: 4.29
book published: 2015
rating: 0
read at: 2017/07/13
date added: 2017/07/13
shelves: teh-stoopid-it-burns, parody-satire, fantasy, did-not-finish
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Crimson Death (Anita Blake, Vampire Hunter, #25)]]> 27836564
Anita has never seen Damian, her vampire servant, in such a state. The rising sun doesn’t usher in the peaceful death that he desperately needs. Instead, he’s being bombarded with violent nightmares and blood sweats.

And now, with Damian at his most vulnerable, Anita needs him the most. The vampire who created him, who subjected him to centuries of torture, might be losing control, allowing rogue vampires to run wild and break one of their kind’s few strict taboos.

Some say love is a great motivator, but hatred gets the job done, too. And when Anita joins forces with her friend Edward to stop the carnage, Damian will be at their side, even if it means traveling back to the land where all his nightmares spring from...a place that couldn’t be less welcoming to a vampire, an assassin, and a necromancer.

Ireland.]]> 720 Laurell K. Hamilton 1101987758 John 1 3.77 2016 Crimson Death (Anita Blake, Vampire Hunter, #25)
author: Laurell K. Hamilton
name: John
average rating: 3.77
book published: 2016
rating: 1
read at: 2017/06/11
date added: 2017/06/11
shelves: anita-blake, did-not-finish, own, paranormal-romance, porn-with-plot, teh-stoopid-it-burns, urban-fantasy
review:
Threw in the towel. Fucking thing took over half the damn book before they even *got* to Ireland, and I was already thinking about slitting my wrists. This makes the last two books I couldn't be bothered with.
]]> <![CDATA[The Heartbeat Thief: A Victorian Historical Fantasy]]> 25541556
In 1860 Surrey, a young woman has only one occupation: to marry. Senza Fyne is beautiful, intelligent, and lacks neither wealth nor connections. Finding a husband shouldn't be difficult, not when she has her entire life before her. But it's not life that preoccupies her thoughts. It's death--and that shadowy spectre haunts her every step.

So does Mr. Knell. Heart-thumpingly attractive, obviously eligible--he'd be her perfect match if only he wasn't so macabre. All his talk about death, all that teasing about knowing how to avoid it...

When her mother arranges a courtship with another man, Senza is desperate for escape from a dull prescripted destiny. Impulsively, she takes Knell up on his offer. He casts a spell that frees her from the cruelty of time and the threat of death--but at a steep price. In order to maintain eternal youth, she must feed on the heartbeats of others.

From the posh London season to the back alleys of Whitechapel, across the Channel, across the Pond, across the seas of Time...

How far will Senza Fyne go to avoid Death?]]> 326 A.J. Krafton John 3
If you’re of a certain age the first thing that’ll come to mind reading this book is the Highlander franchise. The parallels are unmistakable- lead character doomed to an vagabond existence due to their static nature as the world changes and evolves while they remain on the outside always looking in. Senza comes to grips with this early on after making her pact with her enigmatic benefactor, Knell, quickly creating a new persona and withdrawing from close contact with even her family.

As this is Victorian Era England, we get the obligatory visit to Whitechapel and encounter its most infamous resident, Jack the Ripper. Wish I could say I didn’t see it coming.

Her trek through the years has her constantly questioning the wisdom of her decision, and never more so than when she finally does fall for someone only for tragedy to shatter their blossoming happiness. Her foray to the Americas during the Roaring Twenties leads to an encounter that forces her to confront the depths of her existence and leaves this immutable creature irrevocably changed.

An interesting touch was the way the author used passages from Poe’s The Masque of the Red Death to set the stage for each section of the book, helping to frame the context of the next phase of Senza’s journey.

Where it let me down was in two areas. One was Senza’s constant reliance on Knell to tell her when to move on. Granted in many ways she’d retain the emotional maturity of a nineteen year old girl, but she’d become savvy enough over the years to know when it was time to move on- whether from ennui or simply wearing out her welcome. After transforming her, Knell’s presence until the end of the book is strictly relegated to telling her where to go next.

The second was the ending. I won’t give it away, but I was very disappointed with it. To have gone through and endured everything Senza had existed through only to have none of it matter in the end was, quite frankly, a cop out. What was the purpose of it all when there were no consequences for her actions? Again, for those of a certain age all I’ll say is the ending is along the lines of Vanilla Sky & St. Elsewhere. Maybe this is a symptom of what the YA/NA genres are all about- having your cake and eating it too- but it’s not something that should continue.

Overall, despite its flaws, I liked the book both more and less than I expected to. Hard to get too upset about that. 3.5/5 Stars.]]> 3.86 2015 The Heartbeat Thief: A Victorian Historical Fantasy
author: A.J. Krafton
name: John
average rating: 3.86
book published: 2015
rating: 3
read at: 2015/06/30
date added: 2017/06/05
shelves: fantasy, fiction, gothic, historical-romance, horror, new-release, own, new-adult
review:
I’d participated in the promotional blitz for this book and the author’s notes on the research she’d done about English High Society intrigued me enough to make me eager to read it. It was refreshing to read about a young woman, brought up to embrace and embody the virtues of polite society, dedicated to upholding its foundations even while questioning her place within it all. The constant tide of spunky, opinionated, feisty, untamed rebels without a clue was getting pretty tiresome. It was invigorating, if not damn near innovative, to have a protagonist who knew their role and believed in what they were doing, even if they didn’t understand or agree with it all. The wrinkle comes, as always, when life takes a few unexpected turns and you find yourself with a unique yet unbelievable opportunity to escape your troubles and do things you’d never dreamed possible.

If you’re of a certain age the first thing that’ll come to mind reading this book is the Highlander franchise. The parallels are unmistakable- lead character doomed to an vagabond existence due to their static nature as the world changes and evolves while they remain on the outside always looking in. Senza comes to grips with this early on after making her pact with her enigmatic benefactor, Knell, quickly creating a new persona and withdrawing from close contact with even her family.

As this is Victorian Era England, we get the obligatory visit to Whitechapel and encounter its most infamous resident, Jack the Ripper. Wish I could say I didn’t see it coming.

Her trek through the years has her constantly questioning the wisdom of her decision, and never more so than when she finally does fall for someone only for tragedy to shatter their blossoming happiness. Her foray to the Americas during the Roaring Twenties leads to an encounter that forces her to confront the depths of her existence and leaves this immutable creature irrevocably changed.

An interesting touch was the way the author used passages from Poe’s The Masque of the Red Death to set the stage for each section of the book, helping to frame the context of the next phase of Senza’s journey.

Where it let me down was in two areas. One was Senza’s constant reliance on Knell to tell her when to move on. Granted in many ways she’d retain the emotional maturity of a nineteen year old girl, but she’d become savvy enough over the years to know when it was time to move on- whether from ennui or simply wearing out her welcome. After transforming her, Knell’s presence until the end of the book is strictly relegated to telling her where to go next.

The second was the ending. I won’t give it away, but I was very disappointed with it. To have gone through and endured everything Senza had existed through only to have none of it matter in the end was, quite frankly, a cop out. What was the purpose of it all when there were no consequences for her actions? Again, for those of a certain age all I’ll say is the ending is along the lines of Vanilla Sky & St. Elsewhere. Maybe this is a symptom of what the YA/NA genres are all about- having your cake and eating it too- but it’s not something that should continue.

Overall, despite its flaws, I liked the book both more and less than I expected to. Hard to get too upset about that. 3.5/5 Stars.
]]> Wonder Woman: Warbringer 29749085 Daughter of immortals.

Princess Diana longs to prove herself to her legendary warrior sisters. But when the opportunity finally comes, she throws away her chance at glory and breaks Amazon law—risking exile—to save a mortal. Diana will soon learn that she has rescued no ordinary girl, and that with this single brave act, she may have doomed the world.

Daughter of death.

Alia Keralis just wanted to escape her overprotective brother with a semester at sea. She doesn’t know she is being hunted by people who think her very existence could spark a world war. When a bomb detonates aboard her ship, Alia is rescued by a mysterious girl of extraordinary strength and forced to confront a horrible truth: Alia is a Warbringer—a direct descendant of the infamous Helen of Troy, fated to bring about an age of bloodshed and misery.

Together.

Two girls will face an army of enemies—mortal and divine—determined to either destroy or possess the Warbringer. Tested beyond the bounds of their abilities, Diana and Alia must find a way to unleash hidden strengths and forge an unlikely alliance. Because if they have any hope of saving both their worlds, they will have to stand side by side against the tide of war.]]> 369 Leigh Bardugo 0399549730 John 2 currently-reading 4.00 2017 Wonder Woman: Warbringer
author: Leigh Bardugo
name: John
average rating: 4.00
book published: 2017
rating: 2
read at:
date added: 2017/06/03
shelves: currently-reading
review:

]]> The Awakening (Seraphina #1) 22522876
For as long as she can remember, Seraphina Cross has experienced these visions that made her feel like there was more to life. It wasn’t until one moment, one accident that her life changed forever. She awakens the next day a new person in more ways than one. With no recollection of past night’s events, she’s forced to adapt to certain sensations she is experiencing all while trying to piece together what exactly happened to her that fateful night.

Her strange, hectic life doesn’t seem to make sense until she meets a handsome stranger. Only then does the puzzle finally piece itself together. What she doesn’t expect is the new powers she has developed attracting all kinds of unwanted attention.

Thrown into a world she never truly believed existed she is forced to come to grips with who she is becoming while staying out of trouble long enough to figure out what needs to be done to fulfill her destiny.]]> 150 Sheena Hutchinson John 2
Even with all this, there are flashes of a story that could be interesting. The big problem is also typical of the genre: too much telling and not enough showing. The story is in first person, so everything is through Sera's POV but you never experience any of it. She's angry, sad, confused- and it feels like reading an instruction manual. And she seems pretty blase about all the things going on around her with no explanation.

You're also never really vested in anything; it's kinda trite and has a light, romantic comedy feel to it, not helped any by mythical beings speaking and behaving in modern terms and slang. Nate relates his fall from Grace, in a brief epilogue scene and you've never been so disiniterested in what Heaven could look like mainly because the author can't. Even the scene where Satan tries to tempt Sera in joining the dark side reads like a sleazy agent hitting on a starlet- you'd think Lucifer would have some expertise at this sort of thing by now. The author really needs to invest more in her mythology and characterization; just slapping wings on an Abercrombie & Fitch cover boy doesn't automatically make them an angel. Her other love interest, Jack, has some potential and a few occult tricks of his own but also gets shortchanged- he's more like a young guy dealing with a first crush. Again, typical of the genre, authors tend to forget the male characters have to be more than sides of beefcake to flash in front of the MarySue. And some variant of personality wouldn't hurt, either. If every guy is sweet, caring, knows just what they're feeling, etc- why not just close your eyes and grab the nearest one?

Overall. this could be a whole lot better. Remains to see if it will be. 2 1/2 stars.]]> 3.50 2013 The Awakening (Seraphina #1)
author: Sheena Hutchinson
name: John
average rating: 3.50
book published: 2013
rating: 2
read at: 2014/08/03
date added: 2016/11/23
shelves: fantasy, fiction, marysue, paranormal-romance, own, urban-fantasy
review:
Seraphina: The Awakening is typical of the genre. Completely. Average girl gets guardian angel (didn't you notice her name) Nathaniel, who breaks all the rules of Heaven and falls in love with her (just because), imbues her with some of his power and voila!- MarySue Sooper Speshul Snoflake! Bigger, stronger, faster, enhanced senses, some magic, heavenly power to defeat demons, men can't resist her- even Satan himself wants a piece of her action!

Even with all this, there are flashes of a story that could be interesting. The big problem is also typical of the genre: too much telling and not enough showing. The story is in first person, so everything is through Sera's POV but you never experience any of it. She's angry, sad, confused- and it feels like reading an instruction manual. And she seems pretty blase about all the things going on around her with no explanation.

You're also never really vested in anything; it's kinda trite and has a light, romantic comedy feel to it, not helped any by mythical beings speaking and behaving in modern terms and slang. Nate relates his fall from Grace, in a brief epilogue scene and you've never been so disiniterested in what Heaven could look like mainly because the author can't. Even the scene where Satan tries to tempt Sera in joining the dark side reads like a sleazy agent hitting on a starlet- you'd think Lucifer would have some expertise at this sort of thing by now. The author really needs to invest more in her mythology and characterization; just slapping wings on an Abercrombie & Fitch cover boy doesn't automatically make them an angel. Her other love interest, Jack, has some potential and a few occult tricks of his own but also gets shortchanged- he's more like a young guy dealing with a first crush. Again, typical of the genre, authors tend to forget the male characters have to be more than sides of beefcake to flash in front of the MarySue. And some variant of personality wouldn't hurt, either. If every guy is sweet, caring, knows just what they're feeling, etc- why not just close your eyes and grab the nearest one?

Overall. this could be a whole lot better. Remains to see if it will be. 2 1/2 stars.
]]> <![CDATA[Catalyst (Star Wars: Rogue One)]]> 29662066
Galen’s energy-focused research has captured the attention of both Krennic and his foes, making the scientist a crucial pawn in the galactic conflict. But after Krennic rescues Galen, his wife, Lyra, and their young daughter, Jyn, from Separatist kidnappers, the Erso family is deeply in Krennic’s debt. Krennic then offers Galen an extraordinary opportunity: to continue his scientific studies with every resource put utterly at his disposal. While Galen and Lyra believe that his energy research will be used purely in altruistic ways, Krennic has other plans that will finally make the Death Star a reality. Trapped in their benefactor’s tightening grasp, the Ersos must untangle Krennic’s web of deception to save themselves and the galaxy itself.]]> 330 James Luceno 0345511492 John 3
Like a movie or a play, Catalyst is divided into three acts- each one focusing upon a particular aspect of the storyline. You start with the time during and immediately after the war with the Separatists led by Dooku, Act 2 is about establishing the Imperial presence and Act 3 brings us the realization of life under Palpatine's rule- and how these events relate to the construction of a technological terror.

Pacing is a little uneven as it waxes and wanes between all the time spent on Galen’s idiosyncracies and quirks, Has Obitt's conversion from rogue to rebel, Orson’s manipulations of his former comrades, Lyra’s suspicions and constant musings upon the Force� you get the picture. It’s all pieces of the puzzle and bears out on the story, but did slow things down.

Speaking to those characterizations, Luceno did a very good job of them. The conflict is more about character than hyperdrives. At the heart of it all are the people behind the events- who they are and why they’re driven to what they do. From the Vallt rebels who’re just trying to hold onto their planet to the smugglers kicking back at the Wanton Wellspring bar- it’s all about those just trying to survive in the galaxy. Save for a few examples, Galen and company all came across as living, vibrant people. Galen, your typical genius-level scientist who only wants to be left to his research, is critical to the plan but getting- and keeping- him involved is the trick. Orson’s Machiavellian machinations while clever, were just as often very clumsy and his own motives were never really delved into- mostly he was just there to move the plot along. And his Vader-esque moment at the end of the book was unnecessary.

Lyra’s character was confusing. She’s� sorta implied to be an untrained Force-sensitive, yet she never really does anything other than lecture everyone about the Force and lament the fall of the Jedi Order. Palpatine is always referred to and Vader makes a cameo, but I suppose he’s being saved for the next books. Tarkin appears during the second half when construction begins and brings his usual suaveness when dealing with insurgents.

We’re all familiar with the setting, but the story is both old and new- the origins of the Death Star: its conceptualization, planning, engineering, construction, etc. There’s some overlap with, reference to and expansion on events from the Prequel Trilogy- Geonosis, the fate of Poggle the Lesser, the fall of the Jedi & the sudden appearance of Vader, how the Death Star plans were drafted and who acquired them. What I really enjoyed was the exploration of the science behind kyber crystals- their nature, how Jedi might interact with them and the possibility of their possessing a latent sentience. Luceno admits to doing a lot of research on lasers, crystals and synthetic diamonds and it showed.

Luceno, as always, delivers a tightly woven tale of tale from a galaxy far, far away. It gets a little bogged down at times, but more than does the job of helping stage the events of Rogue One.]]> 3.72 2016 Catalyst (Star Wars: Rogue One)
author: James Luceno
name: John
average rating: 3.72
book published: 2016
rating: 3
read at: 2016/11/16
date added: 2016/11/16
shelves: new-release, own, sci-fi, series, star-wars
review:
Catalyst gives you a couple of nice bells & whistles before you start: a cutaway view of the Death Star graces its prefacing pages along with a timeline of the Del Rey books, which will include the upcoming Thrawn novel- whom I’m curious to see how he’ll fit into the canon going forward.

Like a movie or a play, Catalyst is divided into three acts- each one focusing upon a particular aspect of the storyline. You start with the time during and immediately after the war with the Separatists led by Dooku, Act 2 is about establishing the Imperial presence and Act 3 brings us the realization of life under Palpatine's rule- and how these events relate to the construction of a technological terror.

Pacing is a little uneven as it waxes and wanes between all the time spent on Galen’s idiosyncracies and quirks, Has Obitt's conversion from rogue to rebel, Orson’s manipulations of his former comrades, Lyra’s suspicions and constant musings upon the Force� you get the picture. It’s all pieces of the puzzle and bears out on the story, but did slow things down.

Speaking to those characterizations, Luceno did a very good job of them. The conflict is more about character than hyperdrives. At the heart of it all are the people behind the events- who they are and why they’re driven to what they do. From the Vallt rebels who’re just trying to hold onto their planet to the smugglers kicking back at the Wanton Wellspring bar- it’s all about those just trying to survive in the galaxy. Save for a few examples, Galen and company all came across as living, vibrant people. Galen, your typical genius-level scientist who only wants to be left to his research, is critical to the plan but getting- and keeping- him involved is the trick. Orson’s Machiavellian machinations while clever, were just as often very clumsy and his own motives were never really delved into- mostly he was just there to move the plot along. And his Vader-esque moment at the end of the book was unnecessary.

Lyra’s character was confusing. She’s� sorta implied to be an untrained Force-sensitive, yet she never really does anything other than lecture everyone about the Force and lament the fall of the Jedi Order. Palpatine is always referred to and Vader makes a cameo, but I suppose he’s being saved for the next books. Tarkin appears during the second half when construction begins and brings his usual suaveness when dealing with insurgents.

We’re all familiar with the setting, but the story is both old and new- the origins of the Death Star: its conceptualization, planning, engineering, construction, etc. There’s some overlap with, reference to and expansion on events from the Prequel Trilogy- Geonosis, the fate of Poggle the Lesser, the fall of the Jedi & the sudden appearance of Vader, how the Death Star plans were drafted and who acquired them. What I really enjoyed was the exploration of the science behind kyber crystals- their nature, how Jedi might interact with them and the possibility of their possessing a latent sentience. Luceno admits to doing a lot of research on lasers, crystals and synthetic diamonds and it showed.

Luceno, as always, delivers a tightly woven tale of tale from a galaxy far, far away. It gets a little bogged down at times, but more than does the job of helping stage the events of Rogue One.
]]> The Continent 30075733
But Vaela’s dream all too quickly turns to nightmare as the journey brings her face-to-face with the brutal reality of a war she’s only read about. Observing from the safety of a heli-plane, Vaela is forever changed by the sight of the bloody battle being waged far beneath her. And when a tragic accident leaves her stranded on the Continent, Vaela finds herself much closer to danger than she’d ever imagined—and with an entirely new perspective as to what war truly means. Starving, alone, and lost in the middle of a war zone, Vaela must try to find a way home—but first, she must survive.]]> 350 Keira Drake 0373212399 John 0 to-read 3.47 2018 The Continent
author: Keira Drake
name: John
average rating: 3.47
book published: 2018
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2016/11/04
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> <![CDATA[In the Beginning: Dark Retellings of Biblical Tales]]> 25946627
IN THE BEGINNING, ed. Laureen Cantwell and Georgia McBride

Daniel and the Dragon by Stephen Clements
A troubled orphan named Habakkuk dutifully follows his master, the prophet Daniel, into temples of blood-thirsty demon-gods, battles with unspeakable horrors, and bears witnesses to mind-breaking evil until his master's zealous defiance of the king's law seals their fate.

Babylon by Nicole Crucial
Far above the earth, in Second Eden, where moments and eternities all blur together, young Babylon befriends Sefer, the Book of Life. As Babylon awaits the moment she'll fulfill her destiny, she and Sefer try to understand the world in which they live.

Last Will and Testament by Mike Hays
A homeless young boy, Baz, bears the weight of humanity on his shoulders and upon his body. When dark forces test a new-found friendship, Baz’s willingness to bear the ugliness of their world will be shaken.�

The Demon Was Me by Sharon Hughson
Based on the story of the demon-possessed boy healed by Jesus, this tale provides a glimpse into a post-apocalyptic world where a teenage boy seeks to journey to a better land and yearns to discover the kind of man he's meant to be, only to be hijacked by an evil spirit intent upon chipping away at the hope, faith, and resilience of its host.

The Deluge by Marti Johnson
A non-believer shares the story of Noah’s ark-building and the deadly downpour that follows. Fear, faithlessness, and the fallibility of mankind collide in a community where second chances aren’t unlimited and a better-late-than-never attitude just might be your doom.

Condemned by Elle O'Neill
Just sixteen-years-old, Barabbas finds himself pulled out of Routlege Academy and into a reality show competition—against Jesus himself—where the reward for the winner is life.

First Wife by Lora Palmer
In a first-person retelling of the saga of Jacob, Rachel and Leah, themes of family, deception, guilt, and heartache emerge amidst the first days of Leah’s marriage to Jacob—a marriage mired in trickery a mere week before Jacob was to marry Leah's sister Rachel.

Emmaculate by Christina Raus
Based on the story of Mary's Immaculate Conception, we enter the troubled mind of Emma, who finds herself torn between her religious upbringing and the purity ring that binds her to her boyfriend and the pregnancy that results from her relationship with another boy.]]> 300 Laureen P. Cantwell 1939765749 John 2
All anthologies are hit & miss, dependent upon the style of the authors involved. This one's more hit than miss- good ideas, flawed execution.

What's Good: "The Demon was Me" had an organic flow to it, trying to fight the demon's possession even as he knew it was a losing battle. Only thing is you won't understand how a bunch of grown men had so much trouble keeping a teenaged boy restrained... "Deluge" was the best story- seeing Noah & his family through the eyes of a non-believer. "Last Will & Testament" needed more fleshing out; felt like it was all happening in a vacuum.

What's Bad: "Babylon" was... odd. It kinda threw all sorts of things at you, mostly for the sake of doing so. One moment things were one way, then they were another all the while slogging towards its inevitable finale. Just didn't work for me. "Condemned" was kinda insulting. Right off the bat the author shoehorned in a few Hunger Games references- apparently because the reader would be too dense to pick up on similarities and inspiration for the story. Barabbas was a sympathetic guy right up until the end when he suddenly does a one-eighty. Why not keep him consistent?- wouldn't have changed anything. "First Wife" was just plain clumsy. So the wedding simply entails putting the two of them in a room to have sex and the bride keeps her veil on the whole night...? That's the best the author could come up with to explain how Leah ended up with her sister's betrothed- c'mon, really? While I liked the premise to "Emmaculate", I had a hard time accepting that things would've been allowed to get so far out of hand.

What's Left: An entertaining collection of stories that's keep you reading. I think you'll like it.]]> 3.36 2016 In the Beginning: Dark Retellings of Biblical Tales
author: Laureen P. Cantwell
name: John
average rating: 3.36
book published: 2016
rating: 2
read at: 2016/10/26
date added: 2016/10/26
shelves: anthology, demons, dystopia, horror, new-release, short-stories, supernatural, ya
review:
***Disclosure: I received a free copy in exchange for a review.***

All anthologies are hit & miss, dependent upon the style of the authors involved. This one's more hit than miss- good ideas, flawed execution.

What's Good: "The Demon was Me" had an organic flow to it, trying to fight the demon's possession even as he knew it was a losing battle. Only thing is you won't understand how a bunch of grown men had so much trouble keeping a teenaged boy restrained... "Deluge" was the best story- seeing Noah & his family through the eyes of a non-believer. "Last Will & Testament" needed more fleshing out; felt like it was all happening in a vacuum.

What's Bad: "Babylon" was... odd. It kinda threw all sorts of things at you, mostly for the sake of doing so. One moment things were one way, then they were another all the while slogging towards its inevitable finale. Just didn't work for me. "Condemned" was kinda insulting. Right off the bat the author shoehorned in a few Hunger Games references- apparently because the reader would be too dense to pick up on similarities and inspiration for the story. Barabbas was a sympathetic guy right up until the end when he suddenly does a one-eighty. Why not keep him consistent?- wouldn't have changed anything. "First Wife" was just plain clumsy. So the wedding simply entails putting the two of them in a room to have sex and the bride keeps her veil on the whole night...? That's the best the author could come up with to explain how Leah ended up with her sister's betrothed- c'mon, really? While I liked the premise to "Emmaculate", I had a hard time accepting that things would've been allowed to get so far out of hand.

What's Left: An entertaining collection of stories that's keep you reading. I think you'll like it.
]]> <![CDATA[Oak and Mistletoe (The Rituals Trilogy, #1)]]> 31353031 A Druid Curse, A Prophesied Love, A Consuming Vengeance�
Catherine Green, along with her twin sister and older brother, travels to Ireland on a college graduation trip. Her vacation takes a permanent turn when she lands her dream job at an art and history museum on her beloved Emerald Isle. She meets a handsome stranger named Bowen, an expert of sorts on local ancient studies. Though their first meetings are turbulent at best, Catherine finds herself drawn to him.
Unaware that she is the key to breaking a hidden curse, Catherine unleashes the evil madman Conall and his druid followers, imprisoned since ancient times. Tragedy and loss ensue, sprouting within Catherine the deep seeds of rage that thrust her onto the damaging path of vengeance. Confused by the enigma that is Bowen, his mixed signals, and her own feelings, she is swept away with him on an unexpected journey surrounded by myth and long-forgotten knowledge. In order to stop the evil plans of Conall and his reunified army, Catherine must entwine her fate with peril. Her survival is trivial to her as long as Conall dies. She’ll do whatever it takes.

A modern fairy tale adventure styled fantasy set in Ireland with magic, clean romance, and true love.
-Award-winning book of 2017 New Apple Summer E-book Awards in Cross Genre category.
-Finalist in Ireland’s 2016 Drunken Druid Awards.

]]> 254 J.Z.N. McCauley 1619845318 John 1
DNF

This book- as much as I read of it- was boring, unengaging and juvenile. Things happen for no apparent reason other than to set up the next encounter, so mostly they occur in a vacuum. And it's all exposition- nothing actually happens to the characters, we're always told what's going on. In short sentences. Like this. That don't really explain much. So you get lots of them. The three main characters moved to Ireland, their grandfather died, another got a job at a museum, and another actually got married and divorced in between chapters, all only to be mentioned during casual conversation and a couple sentences.

To hell with this crap.]]> 3.66 Oak and Mistletoe (The Rituals Trilogy, #1)
author: J.Z.N. McCauley
name: John
average rating: 3.66
book published:
rating: 1
read at: 2016/10/10
date added: 2016/10/12
shelves: did-not-finish, fantasy, faries, new-release, own
review:
***Disclosure: I received a free copy in exchange for a review.***

DNF

This book- as much as I read of it- was boring, unengaging and juvenile. Things happen for no apparent reason other than to set up the next encounter, so mostly they occur in a vacuum. And it's all exposition- nothing actually happens to the characters, we're always told what's going on. In short sentences. Like this. That don't really explain much. So you get lots of them. The three main characters moved to Ireland, their grandfather died, another got a job at a museum, and another actually got married and divorced in between chapters, all only to be mentioned during casual conversation and a couple sentences.

To hell with this crap.
]]> <![CDATA[The Perilous Journey Of The Much Too Spontaneous Girl (The Perilous Journey Of The Not So Innocuous Girl #2)]]> 28537398
This steampunk adventure is littered with facts from The Golden Age of Piracy and follows (not too closely) some of the lives and adventures of the brave men and women who sailed the seas as privateers, pirates and soldiers.]]> 300 Leigh Statham John 2
What's Good: the historical references that helped shape the series gets woven more into the fabric of the story. The locales are expanded into the New French (Canadian) wilderness and the southern coastlands of America, if only briefly.

Outil, her personal robot servant, remains the best character in the series, by dint of having to put up with Marguerite's antics and actually showing some growth of her own.

The action is over the top, like watching a 50's swashbuckling movie, and a little hard to follow at times, but you can roll with it.

Catching up with Claude and his new wife gave Marguerite a much-needed dose of reality. The reality of their struggles on the frontier hit her hard; a refreshing change from the playpen the author made the world seem to be so far. Too bad it didn't really stick.

What's Bad: Marguerite continues to indulge in her bratty, entitled, self-centered behaviour to the point where she literally endangers everyone and everything around her. After a year of flight school- with apparently little to no socialization with her fellow students- she's learned much of nothing. After the first book and a few rounds of '...but, I was only trying to help, etc' in this one, you'd think she'd have gotten the point.

She's also a bit of a flirt. During yet another misadventure, she encounters a group of Iroquois men who help her locate her friend, Claude. She basically treats them as man candy, making eyes with one of their leaders as her lady parts get all tingly, and even gets to play dress up when she's given some native clothes to wear- because she's so pretty. Maybe the author was trying to show diversity or Marguerite becoming more of a woman- it doesn't accomplish anything but making you dislike her almost to the point of putting the book down.

Jacques, her love interest, gets a little more depth added to him, but not much. Still reminds me of Cary Grant suffering through his lady love's antics because... well, love.

The plot, like Marguerite herself, often indulges in flights of fancy. There's a twist that goes right to the core of the storyline but gets handled almost as an afterthought- even the parties involved treat it like 'and then this happened', which severely lessened its impact.

What's Left: more of the same from the first book, maybe even lighter in tone despite being the middle book and having to do all the heavy lifting to set up the finale. Needs to show more of the world and what it means to live in it instead of just a backdrop for all the toys and a sandbox for rich people to play in.

2.5/5 stars]]> 3.73 2016 The Perilous Journey Of The Much Too Spontaneous Girl (The Perilous Journey Of The Not So Innocuous Girl #2)
author: Leigh Statham
name: John
average rating: 3.73
book published: 2016
rating: 2
read at: 2016/10/09
date added: 2016/10/11
shelves: historical-fantasy, own, sci-fi, steampunk, teh-stoopid-it-burns, ya
review:
***Disclosure: I was provided a free copy in exchange for a review.***

What's Good: the historical references that helped shape the series gets woven more into the fabric of the story. The locales are expanded into the New French (Canadian) wilderness and the southern coastlands of America, if only briefly.

Outil, her personal robot servant, remains the best character in the series, by dint of having to put up with Marguerite's antics and actually showing some growth of her own.

The action is over the top, like watching a 50's swashbuckling movie, and a little hard to follow at times, but you can roll with it.

Catching up with Claude and his new wife gave Marguerite a much-needed dose of reality. The reality of their struggles on the frontier hit her hard; a refreshing change from the playpen the author made the world seem to be so far. Too bad it didn't really stick.

What's Bad: Marguerite continues to indulge in her bratty, entitled, self-centered behaviour to the point where she literally endangers everyone and everything around her. After a year of flight school- with apparently little to no socialization with her fellow students- she's learned much of nothing. After the first book and a few rounds of '...but, I was only trying to help, etc' in this one, you'd think she'd have gotten the point.

She's also a bit of a flirt. During yet another misadventure, she encounters a group of Iroquois men who help her locate her friend, Claude. She basically treats them as man candy, making eyes with one of their leaders as her lady parts get all tingly, and even gets to play dress up when she's given some native clothes to wear- because she's so pretty. Maybe the author was trying to show diversity or Marguerite becoming more of a woman- it doesn't accomplish anything but making you dislike her almost to the point of putting the book down.

Jacques, her love interest, gets a little more depth added to him, but not much. Still reminds me of Cary Grant suffering through his lady love's antics because... well, love.

The plot, like Marguerite herself, often indulges in flights of fancy. There's a twist that goes right to the core of the storyline but gets handled almost as an afterthought- even the parties involved treat it like 'and then this happened', which severely lessened its impact.

What's Left: more of the same from the first book, maybe even lighter in tone despite being the middle book and having to do all the heavy lifting to set up the finale. Needs to show more of the world and what it means to live in it instead of just a backdrop for all the toys and a sandbox for rich people to play in.

2.5/5 stars
]]> Legal (Legal, #1) 30748967 I know the drill. I know the rules.
But damn, if he doesn’t get under my skin.
And into my bed.

There’s no reason for a woman like me,
Successful, established, independent,
To ever be sleeping with a younger man.
A younger man with a hard, rugged, sculptured body.
A body that can go all night.
All night.

I can’t resist, can’t turn him down.
Can’t walk away.
Because I’ve never known pleasure like this.
Chase Nolan walked into my life and disrupted my perfect little world.
And made it so much better.

Enjoy it while you can, Jillian.
Because there’s no way there’s a future for us.
After all, is he barely even legal?]]> 340 Bree Dahlia 0692724036 John 3
What's Good: older woman & younger man hooking up for hot sex- what could be better? At least in theory. Story flows on a pretty even keel once it gets going, mostly via Jill's inner monologues about... everything. Despite the overload on angst it's generally amusing and does get pretty funny at times.

What's Bad: takes forever to get started. Spent too much time on doses of angst and things I guess the author was cute before finally getting into the story. Seemed pretty odd in the age of MILFs for an attractive, horny thirty-something woman to still be so self-conscious, especially with a gorgeous younger man drooling for her. This story played into the cliches & tropes way too much. And I still don't see how someone obviously over twenty-one was being mistaken for barely legal.

Sex scenes were brief- very brief and whils steamy, lacked steam. Sensual but non-specific, and all too short.

What's Left: an amusing, erotic and sweetly romantic story that could use a little less angst and more steam and explicitness. ]]> 3.85 2016 Legal (Legal, #1)
author: Bree Dahlia
name: John
average rating: 3.85
book published: 2016
rating: 3
read at: 2016/09/27
date added: 2016/09/29
shelves: erotica, own, porn-with-plot, chick-lit, anita-blake
review:
***Disclosure: I received a copy in exchange for a review.***

What's Good: older woman & younger man hooking up for hot sex- what could be better? At least in theory. Story flows on a pretty even keel once it gets going, mostly via Jill's inner monologues about... everything. Despite the overload on angst it's generally amusing and does get pretty funny at times.

What's Bad: takes forever to get started. Spent too much time on doses of angst and things I guess the author was cute before finally getting into the story. Seemed pretty odd in the age of MILFs for an attractive, horny thirty-something woman to still be so self-conscious, especially with a gorgeous younger man drooling for her. This story played into the cliches & tropes way too much. And I still don't see how someone obviously over twenty-one was being mistaken for barely legal.

Sex scenes were brief- very brief and whils steamy, lacked steam. Sensual but non-specific, and all too short.

What's Left: an amusing, erotic and sweetly romantic story that could use a little less angst and more steam and explicitness.
]]> Sacrifice (Serpentine #2) 28537304
Stone is stripped of his immortal status and told to close hell's breach, which mysteriously remains open, threatening mortals.

Zhen Ni, Skybright's former mistress and friend, has been wed to the strange and brutish Master Bei, and finds herself trapped in an opulent but empty manor. When she discovers half-eaten corpses beneath the estate, she realizes that Master Bei is not all that he seems.

As Skybright works to free Zhen Ni with the aid of Kai Sen and Stone, they begin to understand that what is at risk is more far-reaching then they could ever have fathomed.]]> Cindy Pon John 3
What’s Good: Picks up right where Serpentine left off, so you’re right back in the thick of things from the jump. Which also means you really need to have read the first book to fully grasp what’s happening.

Initially I was drawn to the series because it wasn’t the same old- diversity’s a strong selling point to me, and a YA novel based upon Chinese mythology & culture was irresistable. While I’d like to have seen more of the Underworld, etc, it kinda felt like it should be that way: characters only know so much so their perspective would be limited. And as we see things as the characters do, that limits our knowledge as well.

To me, the strongest aspect of the book was the character development. Had some problems with Kai Shen, but Zhen was� interesting. lol

Skybright has to come to terms with her new form and finding a place for herself, and does so. Good job with that. And I liked the atmospheric touch that everything in the worlds had a hint of danger to it- gods, demons, etc. There's always something else lurking beneath the veneer.

What’s Bad: Fell back into a few tropes and cliches. Kai Shen started turning into a Gary Stu (the male version of a Mary Sue) right before your eyes, and I’m still not sure why. No real surprises or twists to the plot; just kinda moved along the direction it was already headed.

What’s Left: a solid, entertaining story that draws you in. This duology’s a fine one to add to your collection. ]]> 3.95 2016 Sacrifice (Serpentine #2)
author: Cindy Pon
name: John
average rating: 3.95
book published: 2016
rating: 3
read at: 2016/09/25
date added: 2016/09/27
shelves: demons, fantasy, mythology-based, new-release, supernatural, ya
review:
***Disclosure: I received a free copy in exchange for a review.***

What’s Good: Picks up right where Serpentine left off, so you’re right back in the thick of things from the jump. Which also means you really need to have read the first book to fully grasp what’s happening.

Initially I was drawn to the series because it wasn’t the same old- diversity’s a strong selling point to me, and a YA novel based upon Chinese mythology & culture was irresistable. While I’d like to have seen more of the Underworld, etc, it kinda felt like it should be that way: characters only know so much so their perspective would be limited. And as we see things as the characters do, that limits our knowledge as well.

To me, the strongest aspect of the book was the character development. Had some problems with Kai Shen, but Zhen was� interesting. lol

Skybright has to come to terms with her new form and finding a place for herself, and does so. Good job with that. And I liked the atmospheric touch that everything in the worlds had a hint of danger to it- gods, demons, etc. There's always something else lurking beneath the veneer.

What’s Bad: Fell back into a few tropes and cliches. Kai Shen started turning into a Gary Stu (the male version of a Mary Sue) right before your eyes, and I’m still not sure why. No real surprises or twists to the plot; just kinda moved along the direction it was already headed.

What’s Left: a solid, entertaining story that draws you in. This duology’s a fine one to add to your collection.
]]> <![CDATA[Blood of the Prophet (The Fourth Element #2)]]> 30228183 Visionary. Alchemist. Savior. Saint.

The Prophet Zarathustra has been called many things. Now he spends his time drawing pictures of weird-looking goats. That's what happens when you've been stuck in a prison cell for two hundred years. But the man who might be mad, and is definitely supposed to be dead, has suddenly become very valuable again�

It's only been a few weeks since Nazafareen escaped the King's dungeons with her daēva, Darius. She hoped never to set foot in the empire again, but the search for the Prophet has led them to the ancient city of Karnopolis. They have to find him before Alexander of Macydon burns Persepolae, and Darius's mother with it. But they're not the only ones looking.

The necromancer Balthazar has his own plans for the Prophet, and so does the sinister spymaster of the Numerators. As Nazafareen is drawn in to a dangerous game of cat and mouse, her newfound powers take a decidedly dark turn. Only the Prophet understands the secret of her gift, but the price of that knowledge may turn out to be more than Nazafareen is willing to pay…]]> 337 Kat Ross 099723623X John 3
What's Good: picks up right after the first book leaves off, so it doesn't take much to fall right back into the flow. Kat Ross has a definite feel for portraying the scapes of Persia, and if you're not careful you'll miss more than a few historical references she slips in. The story is predictably straightforward but there's enough curves, angles and even a few revelations to keep you interested.

Character growth is mostly steady, if a bit slow. Layers and depths to both main & secondary figures are revealed & explored, making some of them more alive and others simply stagnant.

Life, death, triumph & loss come together within the story as Nazafareen & company continue to question their beliefs and place in the world.

What's Bad: the magic system is still not fully explained and it's still not entirely clear what daevas, etc, can and can't do and why- particularly when a new form of magic is being introduced. Their powers are rooted in elementalism, and it's a little hard to fathom how no daeva ever gets within arm's reach of any kind of fire at any time in their lives- not even a candle or a campfire.

Nazafareen's shift into an utterly reckless hothead feels forced, especially when she's fully aware of the consequences her rashness can- and does- have. It just felt like a cheap plot device.

The alternating POV between Nazafareen, Balthazar and Araxa can put you off a little, mostly because Nazafareen is First Person and the other two are Third. It always takes a moment to understand which of the two antagonists you're catching up with, and then you're back inside Nazafareen's head.

The pacing slowed down once they reached Karnopolis and we're stuck waiting for all the key players to move into place. Could've pared some of the daily drudgery without missing anything.

What's Left: a solid continuation of the series. Kat Ross continues to develop an interesting milieu for the characters to inhabit, with more layers being discovered in every chapter. ]]> 3.93 2016 Blood of the Prophet (The Fourth Element #2)
author: Kat Ross
name: John
average rating: 3.93
book published: 2016
rating: 3
read at: 2016/09/21
date added: 2016/09/22
shelves: demons, fantasy, mythology-based, new-release, series, ya, historical-fantasy
review:
***Disclosure: I received a free copy in exchange for a review.***

What's Good: picks up right after the first book leaves off, so it doesn't take much to fall right back into the flow. Kat Ross has a definite feel for portraying the scapes of Persia, and if you're not careful you'll miss more than a few historical references she slips in. The story is predictably straightforward but there's enough curves, angles and even a few revelations to keep you interested.

Character growth is mostly steady, if a bit slow. Layers and depths to both main & secondary figures are revealed & explored, making some of them more alive and others simply stagnant.

Life, death, triumph & loss come together within the story as Nazafareen & company continue to question their beliefs and place in the world.

What's Bad: the magic system is still not fully explained and it's still not entirely clear what daevas, etc, can and can't do and why- particularly when a new form of magic is being introduced. Their powers are rooted in elementalism, and it's a little hard to fathom how no daeva ever gets within arm's reach of any kind of fire at any time in their lives- not even a candle or a campfire.

Nazafareen's shift into an utterly reckless hothead feels forced, especially when she's fully aware of the consequences her rashness can- and does- have. It just felt like a cheap plot device.

The alternating POV between Nazafareen, Balthazar and Araxa can put you off a little, mostly because Nazafareen is First Person and the other two are Third. It always takes a moment to understand which of the two antagonists you're catching up with, and then you're back inside Nazafareen's head.

The pacing slowed down once they reached Karnopolis and we're stuck waiting for all the key players to move into place. Could've pared some of the daily drudgery without missing anything.

What's Left: a solid continuation of the series. Kat Ross continues to develop an interesting milieu for the characters to inhabit, with more layers being discovered in every chapter.
]]> <![CDATA[The Retreat (The After Trilogy, #1)]]> 30968533
Romy’s life is simple—for a genetically enhanced space soldier; pick up space junk with her four friends, and stave off the invaders fixated on stealing Planet Earth.

It isn’t much. But it’s temporary—only another 850 years to go, give or take.

When her crew tangles with a gulp-worthy alien mothership, Romy’s return to Earth is brought forwards at hurtling pace.

Strength comes from the unlikeliest of quarters.

As does leadership.

…As does betrayal.]]> Kelly St. Clare John 2
What's Good: a well-paced read that can keep you turning the pages. The premise is intriguing, even knowing the hammer's gonna fall. Once stranded upon Earth, things change in more ways than Romy and her friends could've imagined. Despite all the teen drama & angst that dominates the book it never gets too bogged down by it.

Dialogue, while usually stilted, is often funny. Houston, a medical doctor, is a walking rifftrack- always with a quip or one-liner, even at the wrong moment. He needs more page time.

The plot, while nothing new, has a few wrinkles to it that'll hold your interest. Threads are woven together pretty nicely and there's not a lot of wasted pages.

What's Bad: the usual. Main character Rosemary, aka Romy, is pretty much the Chosen One, evidenced by her nickname (instead of Rose or Rosie). Except for one or two exceptions nearly every character is straight from Central Casting including Atlas- the mysterious, enigmatic leading man who leads the encampment and, of course, falls completely in love with Romy after about two weeks.

Despite the new wrinkles it's still a YA novel and quickly falls back into the same old same old, so what felt kinda fresh becomes stale.

There's also not enough about the Critamal- the aliens that humanity is fighting. Once the crew is stranded on Earth the focus naturally shifts, but the alien invaders are all but forgotten, and not a whole lot was supplied about them to begin with.

Being a YA novel, there has to be artifical drama that makes no sense. Romy & her crew are super-soldiers: enhanced reflexes & strength, nanobots in their bloodstream, etc. Yet when faced with the threat of sexual assault suddenly Romy has no skills whatsoever, let alone presence of mind to simply punch him in the jaw and let someone know what's happened. Or at least level a few threats of her own. Granted, this scene was groundwork for later developments, but it still didn't make any sense.

What's Left: an interesting arc that needs to get out of its own way. Less reliance on the YA cliches and tropes and tell the story.]]> 3.91 2016 The Retreat (The After Trilogy, #1)
author: Kelly St. Clare
name: John
average rating: 3.91
book published: 2016
rating: 2
read at: 2016/09/12
date added: 2016/09/14
shelves: dystopia, marysue, new-release, sci-fi, series, ya
review:
***Disclosure: I received a free copy in exchange for a review.***

What's Good: a well-paced read that can keep you turning the pages. The premise is intriguing, even knowing the hammer's gonna fall. Once stranded upon Earth, things change in more ways than Romy and her friends could've imagined. Despite all the teen drama & angst that dominates the book it never gets too bogged down by it.

Dialogue, while usually stilted, is often funny. Houston, a medical doctor, is a walking rifftrack- always with a quip or one-liner, even at the wrong moment. He needs more page time.

The plot, while nothing new, has a few wrinkles to it that'll hold your interest. Threads are woven together pretty nicely and there's not a lot of wasted pages.

What's Bad: the usual. Main character Rosemary, aka Romy, is pretty much the Chosen One, evidenced by her nickname (instead of Rose or Rosie). Except for one or two exceptions nearly every character is straight from Central Casting including Atlas- the mysterious, enigmatic leading man who leads the encampment and, of course, falls completely in love with Romy after about two weeks.

Despite the new wrinkles it's still a YA novel and quickly falls back into the same old same old, so what felt kinda fresh becomes stale.

There's also not enough about the Critamal- the aliens that humanity is fighting. Once the crew is stranded on Earth the focus naturally shifts, but the alien invaders are all but forgotten, and not a whole lot was supplied about them to begin with.

Being a YA novel, there has to be artifical drama that makes no sense. Romy & her crew are super-soldiers: enhanced reflexes & strength, nanobots in their bloodstream, etc. Yet when faced with the threat of sexual assault suddenly Romy has no skills whatsoever, let alone presence of mind to simply punch him in the jaw and let someone know what's happened. Or at least level a few threats of her own. Granted, this scene was groundwork for later developments, but it still didn't make any sense.

What's Left: an interesting arc that needs to get out of its own way. Less reliance on the YA cliches and tropes and tell the story.
]]> <![CDATA[Before the Snow (Stealing Snow, #0.1)]]> 30118576 Enter a world of elemental magic, forbidden romance, and betrayal in this prequel to New York Times bestselling author Danielle Paige's upcoming Stealing Snow.

Young Nepenthe is half-princess, half-mermaid. Though she longs for the sea, her father wants her to stay on land. But only love can make a mermaid give up the water, and Nepenthe doesn't love anyone the way her mother loves her human father. She wants to live as a mermaid and become the River Witch, like her mother.

Then Nepenthe meets Prince Lazar, the son of the all-powerful Snow King of Algid, and she can't help but fall for him. After a horrible tragedy strikes, Nepenthe joins forces with a young fire witch named Ora to save Lazar and protect the kingdom. But it soon becomes clear that Ora loves Lazar just as much as Nepenthe does... And now Nepenthe must decide: inherit the power of the River Witch, or betray her friend to be with the boy she loves.

And Nepenthe's role in the prophecy is only just beginning. . . In the future, she is destined to cross paths with a girl named Snow, who will have the power to change Algid forever-for better, or for worse.]]> 90 Danielle Paige 1681193833 John 2 3.68 2016 Before the Snow (Stealing Snow, #0.1)
author: Danielle Paige
name: John
average rating: 3.68
book published: 2016
rating: 2
read at: 2016/09/09
date added: 2016/09/09
shelves: fantasy, faries, new-release, series, fairytale-rehash
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Blood and Magic (Coven Enforcers #1)]]> 22008849 250 Ann Gimpel John 2 3.75 2014 Blood and Magic (Coven Enforcers #1)
author: Ann Gimpel
name: John
average rating: 3.75
book published: 2014
rating: 2
read at: 2016/09/09
date added: 2016/09/09
shelves:
review:

]]> Everealm (Everealm, #1) 23387130

Danger awaits, as we journey through Everealm, the first book of the Everealm Series.]]> J.D. Wright 131181017X John 0 to-read 4.07 2014 Everealm (Everealm, #1)
author: J.D. Wright
name: John
average rating: 4.07
book published: 2014
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2016/09/05
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> Fish Wielder 30168029
In ancient times, the Dark Lord Mauron cooked the most powerful magic chocolate dessert ever made, the Pudding of Power. One thousand and two years later, the evil leader of the Bad Religion, the Heartless One, is trying to recover the lost pudding in order to enslave the peoples of Grome. Only the depressed barbarian warrior Thoral Might Fist and his best friend, Brad the talking Koi fish, have a chance to save the world of Grome from destruction, but that's going to take a ridiculous amount of magic and mayhem. Thus begins the epically silly epic fantasy of epic proportions, Fish Wielder—book one of the Fish Wielder Trilogy.]]> Jim Hardison John 5
***Disclaimer: I received a free copy in exchange for a review.***

I almost don’t even know where to start.

This is simply one of the best satirical novels you’ll ever read. It’s Python-esquely witty, meticulously referenced, surprisingly poignant, tightly plotted, sublimely ridiculous, damned stupid and you’ll enjoy every page of it. Especially if you like pudding. You’d better like pudding, because it’s everywhere in this thing.

“We are enemies of old, and I am sworn to an older swear than the swear I swore when I swore to the elves.�

Our hero, Thoral Fist Wielder, is everything you’d expect and more. And less. And something in between. Tall, blond, muscular, speaks loudly and carries a big sword. Knows lots of words and doesn’t know lots more. Really likes being clean. Surprised?- you’ll discover there’s a good reason for it. His sidekick, Brad, is a talking, ambulatory Koi fish who can’t swim- you’ll notice him on the cover. Also on the cover is a dark haired elven beauty. Her name’s Nalweegie- which in Elvish means “the Evening Snack�, because to look on her in twilight quells the hunger of one’s heart without making one feel overfull, as can happen with a more substantial meal.

And did I mention Thoral’s trusty steed named Warlordhorse?

Hardison’s style is pretty funny, if a little verbose. Hardison delivers the most overstuffed, flowery, convoluted, so-purple-Prince-would’ve-sued-him prose you’ll ever read. And that’s without even mentioning the color of Thoral’s eyes. The man knows his stuff; you may not laugh out loud at everything but you’ll definitely be amused- even bemused from time to time. Don’t worry; it’ll all sort itself out. This guy’s a master of turning a phrase� on its ear.

“Thoral swung Blurmflard, whistling through the air, the pink fire of its magic glow flaming to light, and the priest’s head left his shoulders with such force that it smashed an onrushing brother in the face so hard that it killed him, the guy behind him and the guy behind him. The brother behind those three got a concussion and the guy behind him got a bloody nose.�

Believe it or not, there’s an actual plot going on here. This isn’t some slapped together slapstick; there’s something sinister going on here, and even though you may lose sight of it amidst all the sporking and send-ups, Hardison never does. It involves an evil sorcerer, of course, a powerful magic spell, a prophecy and the leader of the Bad Religion. When you least expect it the plot rears its head to remind you what’s at stake, and the threads are very neatly woven together within the foolishness. There truly is a method to all the madness. And just when you think you’ve got it all figured out, when you’re just along for the ride- he yanks the carpet out from under you. There’s twists and turns to this story you’ll never see coming, especially in the finale. And you’ll be hungry for more.

“One does not simply walk into Flurge� it is a terrifying, dangerous, dread place, crowded with the twisted spirits of the dead and overrun by monsters� It drips with darkness like a burlap bag full of black paint. The very air is a smelly fume…�

(If you don’t recognize that quote, don’t even bother picking up this book)

Lovecraft, Robert Howard, Lewis Carroll, Michael Moorcock, Tolkien, Fritz Leiber- none are spared from the rapier wit of Jim Hardison. He pays homage to the masters of Fantasy by roasting their chestnuts over an open fire. And you’ll love every moment of it.]]> 4.09 2016 Fish Wielder
author: Jim Hardison
name: John
average rating: 4.09
book published: 2016
rating: 5
read at: 2016/09/03
date added: 2016/09/05
shelves: best-parody-ever, fantasy, humor, own, parody-satire, new-release, series
review:


***Disclaimer: I received a free copy in exchange for a review.***

I almost don’t even know where to start.

This is simply one of the best satirical novels you’ll ever read. It’s Python-esquely witty, meticulously referenced, surprisingly poignant, tightly plotted, sublimely ridiculous, damned stupid and you’ll enjoy every page of it. Especially if you like pudding. You’d better like pudding, because it’s everywhere in this thing.

“We are enemies of old, and I am sworn to an older swear than the swear I swore when I swore to the elves.�

Our hero, Thoral Fist Wielder, is everything you’d expect and more. And less. And something in between. Tall, blond, muscular, speaks loudly and carries a big sword. Knows lots of words and doesn’t know lots more. Really likes being clean. Surprised?- you’ll discover there’s a good reason for it. His sidekick, Brad, is a talking, ambulatory Koi fish who can’t swim- you’ll notice him on the cover. Also on the cover is a dark haired elven beauty. Her name’s Nalweegie- which in Elvish means “the Evening Snack�, because to look on her in twilight quells the hunger of one’s heart without making one feel overfull, as can happen with a more substantial meal.

And did I mention Thoral’s trusty steed named Warlordhorse?

Hardison’s style is pretty funny, if a little verbose. Hardison delivers the most overstuffed, flowery, convoluted, so-purple-Prince-would’ve-sued-him prose you’ll ever read. And that’s without even mentioning the color of Thoral’s eyes. The man knows his stuff; you may not laugh out loud at everything but you’ll definitely be amused- even bemused from time to time. Don’t worry; it’ll all sort itself out. This guy’s a master of turning a phrase� on its ear.

“Thoral swung Blurmflard, whistling through the air, the pink fire of its magic glow flaming to light, and the priest’s head left his shoulders with such force that it smashed an onrushing brother in the face so hard that it killed him, the guy behind him and the guy behind him. The brother behind those three got a concussion and the guy behind him got a bloody nose.�

Believe it or not, there’s an actual plot going on here. This isn’t some slapped together slapstick; there’s something sinister going on here, and even though you may lose sight of it amidst all the sporking and send-ups, Hardison never does. It involves an evil sorcerer, of course, a powerful magic spell, a prophecy and the leader of the Bad Religion. When you least expect it the plot rears its head to remind you what’s at stake, and the threads are very neatly woven together within the foolishness. There truly is a method to all the madness. And just when you think you’ve got it all figured out, when you’re just along for the ride- he yanks the carpet out from under you. There’s twists and turns to this story you’ll never see coming, especially in the finale. And you’ll be hungry for more.

“One does not simply walk into Flurge� it is a terrifying, dangerous, dread place, crowded with the twisted spirits of the dead and overrun by monsters� It drips with darkness like a burlap bag full of black paint. The very air is a smelly fume…�

(If you don’t recognize that quote, don’t even bother picking up this book)

Lovecraft, Robert Howard, Lewis Carroll, Michael Moorcock, Tolkien, Fritz Leiber- none are spared from the rapier wit of Jim Hardison. He pays homage to the masters of Fantasy by roasting their chestnuts over an open fire. And you’ll love every moment of it.
]]> <![CDATA[Kiss of Pride (Deadly Angels, #1)]]> 12758871 SOME MEN ARE TOO BAD TO BE TRUE...

Is he really a Viking with a vampire’s bite? An angel with the body of a thunder god? A lone wolf with love on his mind? Alexandra Kelly, his prey, thinks Vikar Sigurdsson is either flat-out crazy or he’s trying to maneuver her into his bed--which is hardly where a professional reporter should conduct an interview, tempting as that prospect might be.

SOME MEN ARE TOO GOOD TO BE TRUE...

Until Vikar does something a teensy bit unexpected, and Alex begins to wonder whether her mystery man could really be everything he says he is: a Viking Vampire Angel on a thousand-year-long mission with his pack of sinful brothers—and a man who’s finally found the woman of his dreams. By then, Vikar is already wrapping his chiseled arms around Alex’s body...and sinking his wicked fangs right into her neck. If this is sin, why does it feel so good?]]> 353 Sandra Hill 0062064614 John 0 to-read 3.63 2012 Kiss of Pride (Deadly Angels, #1)
author: Sandra Hill
name: John
average rating: 3.63
book published: 2012
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2016/08/07
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Wounded (Anita Blake, Vampire Hunter, #24.5)]]> 30759055 Be proud of Life’s battle scars, it means you were stronger than whatever hurt you, and you didn’t die—and Anita Blake, Vampire Hunter and U.S. Marshal will be the first to show you hers in this sweet and sexy story of celebration and connection from #1 New York Times bestselling author Laurell K. Hamilton.

Anita attends the wedding of her close friend but finds that even on the happiest of days there are wounds that need healing. She and the wereleopards Micah and Nathaniel are asked to talk to the bride’s thirteen-year-old brother, Tomas, who is struggling to recover from a recent gunshot wound. Depressed and demoralized, Tomas isn’t doing his physical therapy and could spend the rest of his life in a wheelchair�

How can Anita, Micah, and Nathaniel convince Tomas that he can heal when he’s given up? They tell him about their own scars and how they took back their own lives after they were wounded. And Anita will realize how lucky they are to have not only survived their pasts, but to now be able to make their own formal commitment to each other� and the vampire in her life…]]> 56 Laurell K. Hamilton 0451488695 John 0 3.71 2016 Wounded (Anita Blake, Vampire Hunter, #24.5)
author: Laurell K. Hamilton
name: John
average rating: 3.71
book published: 2016
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2016/06/27
shelves: to-read, anita-blake, fiction, marysue, new-release, paranormal-romance, short-story, supernatural, teh-stoopid-it-burns, urban-fantasy, vampires, werewolves
review:

]]> My Wolf and Me 29560746 Their friendship was pure.
Their fear was real.
Their danger was true.

When little Marlena is left to care for an abandoned wolf pup, her parents see their irrevocable bond, and this humble family embarks on an adventure trying to care for the needs of a rapidly growing wolf, and the needs of their headstrong daughter. The comical complications of such a venture only darken when Marlena, now a high school student, witnesses her wolf shift� into a young man.

Secrets and the pure hatred from a man out for revenge take Marlena, her family and her wolf on a heartbreaking journey of devastating loss, captivity, and ultimate sacrifices.

This love story will haunt you well after you finally set this book down.]]> 260 India R. Adams John 3 ***Disclaimer: I received a copy in exchange for a review.***

Opening & Hook: begins with a lonely young girl playing in the woods and meeting up with a pair of wolves, or so she thinks. For some reason the wolves decided to keep the child company and bonded with her, starting little Marlena on the path of her life-changing journey.

Style: From the outset India Allen displayed a deft touch for immersing her audience in the story. Told through Marlena’s POV, readers will always feel as if they’re right there with her as she experiences her life with Romy, the role he plays in her family’s life and the conflicts it brings with her two best friends Trevor and Jimmy- especially when Trevor becomes more than a friend.

Setting/Worldbuilding: the town & area Marlena lives in are undefined, almost generic; there’s no scope to anything since Marlena’s entire world consists of going to school and hanging out with Trevor, Jimmy & Romy. We’re more familiar with the woods surrounding her house than anything else about the area- including her own home. There’s no family trips, no friends or relatives coming to visit, nothing.

Characters: as the focus of the story, Marlena is a wonderfully interesting character. It’s uncommon to have an engaging person to follow in such an obvious story arc, but I was always interested in what was going on with her. Marlena was never such a Special Snowflake that you didn’t want to keep reading.

Romy/Sebastian, on the other hand, was less so. Despite his strengths and enjoyable naivete about the world around him, he practically had Cliched Romantic Trope stamped on his forehead the whole time. Once he transformed into a human, I began losing interest in him as you knew where things were headed.

Trevor & Jimmy, aka T & Hound- Marlena’s two best friends since childhood- were the highlight of the story. The bond they formed was a strong one, even when teenage romance threatened to break it. Their relationship felt natural and the insights into Trevor’s mindset during it were solid and refreshing to read, as did its resolution.

Story & Conflict: the story feels divided into two halves- childhood and young adulthood- the obvious transition being once Romy shifts into Sebastian and their romance develops. Much of the story is about Marlena’s emotional journey, with Romy always at the center of things. Things pick up and change once Romy’s secret is discovered by Trevor & Jimmy- in a typically teenaged fashion- and sets things in motion for the third act. This is where it starts to fall apart; the scenarios are trite and laden with purple prose as the lovers are separated and their lives threatened. Everything turns preachy and again, clichéd, trite and well, corny. It’s as if the author suddenly felt compelled to cram all their story ideas about shifters into the finale, leaving little room for anything resembling what we’d been reading so far.

The villains and their motives� well, as I said- corny, cliched tropes. Wasn’t interested in any of it. And if you’re hunting werewolves and gonna experiment on them you might want to have a better base camp than a crummy tent setup in the middle of nowhere.
]]> 4.35 My Wolf and Me
author: India R. Adams
name: John
average rating: 4.35
book published:
rating: 3
read at: 2016/06/25
date added: 2016/06/27
shelves: own, paranormal-romance, werewolves, fiction, ya
review:

***Disclaimer: I received a copy in exchange for a review.***

Opening & Hook: begins with a lonely young girl playing in the woods and meeting up with a pair of wolves, or so she thinks. For some reason the wolves decided to keep the child company and bonded with her, starting little Marlena on the path of her life-changing journey.

Style: From the outset India Allen displayed a deft touch for immersing her audience in the story. Told through Marlena’s POV, readers will always feel as if they’re right there with her as she experiences her life with Romy, the role he plays in her family’s life and the conflicts it brings with her two best friends Trevor and Jimmy- especially when Trevor becomes more than a friend.

Setting/Worldbuilding: the town & area Marlena lives in are undefined, almost generic; there’s no scope to anything since Marlena’s entire world consists of going to school and hanging out with Trevor, Jimmy & Romy. We’re more familiar with the woods surrounding her house than anything else about the area- including her own home. There’s no family trips, no friends or relatives coming to visit, nothing.

Characters: as the focus of the story, Marlena is a wonderfully interesting character. It’s uncommon to have an engaging person to follow in such an obvious story arc, but I was always interested in what was going on with her. Marlena was never such a Special Snowflake that you didn’t want to keep reading.

Romy/Sebastian, on the other hand, was less so. Despite his strengths and enjoyable naivete about the world around him, he practically had Cliched Romantic Trope stamped on his forehead the whole time. Once he transformed into a human, I began losing interest in him as you knew where things were headed.

Trevor & Jimmy, aka T & Hound- Marlena’s two best friends since childhood- were the highlight of the story. The bond they formed was a strong one, even when teenage romance threatened to break it. Their relationship felt natural and the insights into Trevor’s mindset during it were solid and refreshing to read, as did its resolution.

Story & Conflict: the story feels divided into two halves- childhood and young adulthood- the obvious transition being once Romy shifts into Sebastian and their romance develops. Much of the story is about Marlena’s emotional journey, with Romy always at the center of things. Things pick up and change once Romy’s secret is discovered by Trevor & Jimmy- in a typically teenaged fashion- and sets things in motion for the third act. This is where it starts to fall apart; the scenarios are trite and laden with purple prose as the lovers are separated and their lives threatened. Everything turns preachy and again, clichéd, trite and well, corny. It’s as if the author suddenly felt compelled to cram all their story ideas about shifters into the finale, leaving little room for anything resembling what we’d been reading so far.

The villains and their motives� well, as I said- corny, cliched tropes. Wasn’t interested in any of it. And if you’re hunting werewolves and gonna experiment on them you might want to have a better base camp than a crummy tent setup in the middle of nowhere.

]]> <![CDATA[Endangered (Daughter of Hades, #1)]]> 29360229
Huntley would have never guessed that after he died he would wake up with a beautiful girl standing over him. And that she would be the Dark Lord of the Underworld's daughter. Yet, for some reason, she keeps him around as her tutor, as if he knows anything about the world. But Huntley knows that all she really wants is a friend; being trapped in the Underworld can get pretty lonely.

That is, until Chrys decides she wants to run away to the human world after a big fight with her mother Persephone. Chrys claims her father is just over reacting and that nothing bad will come of it. There's no way that the gods will notice she's there for only a couple of days...right?]]> 298 Dani Hoots John 2
The First Five Words/Intro: “Hello and welcome to the Underworld. My name is Chrys, and I am the daughter of Hades. May I take your coat?� Sets the tone for the story but didn’t inspire much confidence. For a goddess who’s never set foot out of the Underworld she’s got a definitively modern style to her. If she’s been alive for so many thousands of years- and was personally mentored by Shakespeare himself- why does she only have contemporary references yet remain so clueless about things?

Style: The POV switches between Chrys and Huntley; an interesting tactic that allows you to see the story from different perspectives. The overall tone is pretty consistent yet uneven. Again, this is the centuries-old daughter of a god and a goddess in her own right, yet she’s only matured physically/emotionally to a high school level? I’d like to think there’s a reason for this, especially as every other godly being encountered is clearly an adult- aside from her own friends, conveniently- but we’re not given one.

Characters: Chrys is interesting enough but seems stuck in a permanent state of wangst. She can’t seem to make up her mind about much of anything other than being self-absorbed Ex: “My father was one of the most important people in my life, if the not the most important…� Really? You’re not sure? You know all of four people and you can’t tell where your own father ranks among them? Smooth. For a main character she doesn’t have much of an arc or growth through the story.

Huntley is an ok dude with some depth and develops more than Chrys does. He’s never much examined his circumstances and always treaded carefully, aware of how fragile his status is, but begins piecing things together and wondering about his place as a mortal amongst gods.

AJ or Agenor, has a potentially interesting backstory as how a son of Poseidon ended up in the Underworld, but we never learn it. This Agenor seems like he was based off the one from the Wrath of the Titans movie than actual mythology. You know he’s up to something; but what it is and why isn’t what you’d expect.

Story & Conflict: When we finally get to it, it’s a little disappointing. Without going into spoilers a lot of trouble could’ve been avoided if Hades had done what he should’ve all along and only offered to after everything hits the fan: train Chrys properly. The whole story centers around keeping Chrys under wraps and unknown to the rest of the gods, yet Hades never bothers to develop her powers even though he knows what she’s capable of and she’s constantly frightened of what could happen should she lose control. But no one ever teaches her.

Right when things were getting kinda interesting, the author pulls out the same old MarySue/Chosen One card: Chrys is the one from the prophecy with the power to destroy the gods, etc, blahblahblah.

I was ready to stop reading right there.

I don’t understand why *every* PNR/UF story- especially YA- want to go down this road. What’s the point? Where’s the struggle and conflict if the character is all-powerful right from the jump? Why can’t they just discover (not all of) their abilities, work around their limitations and face challenges with/against their peers? Ultimate beings are ultimately pretty damn dull and this doesn’t leave much room for improvement in the sequels: who can stand up to an all-powerful entity who’s fated to win? Why would anyone even try?

Proficiency: book needed proofreading. Simple as that.

Dialogue: Everyone speaks in a contemporary style, fitting enough for a modern day setting. But again, you’d think Chrys- and everyone else who resides in the Underworld- would have more formal & archaic speech patterns as they never leave it and have limited exposure to the world.

Narrative/Pacing: a pretty even keel for the most part. The bulk of the story is filled with the dynamics of the relationship between Chrys & Huntley and how they relate to everyone else. It’s not bad, just could’ve used more punch, or maybe a little something from Hades� own POV.

Overall, there’s a story buried in here and has the potential to be a good one. It just needs to be treated as what it claims to be: a goddess who shouldn’t exist coming into her own to face those who want to destroy her, instead of a whiny teenaged girl whose tantrums could destroy the world and the father who never trained her not to. Because with the latter everyone else has a good point in wanting to stop her.

Typical fare for the YA genre.]]> 3.55 2016 Endangered (Daughter of Hades, #1)
author: Dani Hoots
name: John
average rating: 3.55
book published: 2016
rating: 2
read at: 2016/06/08
date added: 2016/06/09
shelves: fiction, fantasy, mythology-based, new-release, own, ya
review:
***Disclaimer: I received a copy in exchange for a review.***

The First Five Words/Intro: “Hello and welcome to the Underworld. My name is Chrys, and I am the daughter of Hades. May I take your coat?� Sets the tone for the story but didn’t inspire much confidence. For a goddess who’s never set foot out of the Underworld she’s got a definitively modern style to her. If she’s been alive for so many thousands of years- and was personally mentored by Shakespeare himself- why does she only have contemporary references yet remain so clueless about things?

Style: The POV switches between Chrys and Huntley; an interesting tactic that allows you to see the story from different perspectives. The overall tone is pretty consistent yet uneven. Again, this is the centuries-old daughter of a god and a goddess in her own right, yet she’s only matured physically/emotionally to a high school level? I’d like to think there’s a reason for this, especially as every other godly being encountered is clearly an adult- aside from her own friends, conveniently- but we’re not given one.

Characters: Chrys is interesting enough but seems stuck in a permanent state of wangst. She can’t seem to make up her mind about much of anything other than being self-absorbed Ex: “My father was one of the most important people in my life, if the not the most important…� Really? You’re not sure? You know all of four people and you can’t tell where your own father ranks among them? Smooth. For a main character she doesn’t have much of an arc or growth through the story.

Huntley is an ok dude with some depth and develops more than Chrys does. He’s never much examined his circumstances and always treaded carefully, aware of how fragile his status is, but begins piecing things together and wondering about his place as a mortal amongst gods.

AJ or Agenor, has a potentially interesting backstory as how a son of Poseidon ended up in the Underworld, but we never learn it. This Agenor seems like he was based off the one from the Wrath of the Titans movie than actual mythology. You know he’s up to something; but what it is and why isn’t what you’d expect.

Story & Conflict: When we finally get to it, it’s a little disappointing. Without going into spoilers a lot of trouble could’ve been avoided if Hades had done what he should’ve all along and only offered to after everything hits the fan: train Chrys properly. The whole story centers around keeping Chrys under wraps and unknown to the rest of the gods, yet Hades never bothers to develop her powers even though he knows what she’s capable of and she’s constantly frightened of what could happen should she lose control. But no one ever teaches her.

Right when things were getting kinda interesting, the author pulls out the same old MarySue/Chosen One card: Chrys is the one from the prophecy with the power to destroy the gods, etc, blahblahblah.

I was ready to stop reading right there.

I don’t understand why *every* PNR/UF story- especially YA- want to go down this road. What’s the point? Where’s the struggle and conflict if the character is all-powerful right from the jump? Why can’t they just discover (not all of) their abilities, work around their limitations and face challenges with/against their peers? Ultimate beings are ultimately pretty damn dull and this doesn’t leave much room for improvement in the sequels: who can stand up to an all-powerful entity who’s fated to win? Why would anyone even try?

Proficiency: book needed proofreading. Simple as that.

Dialogue: Everyone speaks in a contemporary style, fitting enough for a modern day setting. But again, you’d think Chrys- and everyone else who resides in the Underworld- would have more formal & archaic speech patterns as they never leave it and have limited exposure to the world.

Narrative/Pacing: a pretty even keel for the most part. The bulk of the story is filled with the dynamics of the relationship between Chrys & Huntley and how they relate to everyone else. It’s not bad, just could’ve used more punch, or maybe a little something from Hades� own POV.

Overall, there’s a story buried in here and has the potential to be a good one. It just needs to be treated as what it claims to be: a goddess who shouldn’t exist coming into her own to face those who want to destroy her, instead of a whiny teenaged girl whose tantrums could destroy the world and the father who never trained her not to. Because with the latter everyone else has a good point in wanting to stop her.

Typical fare for the YA genre.
]]> <![CDATA[Ambushing Malachi (Wolvens, Eastern Province Book 1)]]> 28393376 118 Electra Gajdos John 0 3.71 Ambushing Malachi (Wolvens, Eastern Province Book 1)
author: Electra Gajdos
name: John
average rating: 3.71
book published:
rating: 0
read at: 2016/06/06
date added: 2016/06/06
shelves:
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Collective Ramblings Volume One]]> 29416949 262 John Langmaack 0692653295 John 4
What's Good: As advertised, it's a diverse collection of shorts split into four categories. Some of which I found pretty interesting and kept me turning pages, ready to find out what was happening. Never gonna complain about that.

What's Bad: too many of the stories are truncated, finishing without a true resolution or finale. Don't understand what the reason for this is and left me a feeling kinda flat.

What's Left: a nifty showcase for new authors that'll definitely spark your interest and keep you reading, regardless of how they end. Or don't.]]> 4.50 Collective Ramblings Volume One
author: John Langmaack
name: John
average rating: 4.50
book published:
rating: 4
read at: 2016/05/25
date added: 2016/05/26
shelves: anthology, horror, new-release, own, sci-fi, short-stories
review:
***Disclaimer: I received a free copy in exchange for a review.***

What's Good: As advertised, it's a diverse collection of shorts split into four categories. Some of which I found pretty interesting and kept me turning pages, ready to find out what was happening. Never gonna complain about that.

What's Bad: too many of the stories are truncated, finishing without a true resolution or finale. Don't understand what the reason for this is and left me a feeling kinda flat.

What's Left: a nifty showcase for new authors that'll definitely spark your interest and keep you reading, regardless of how they end. Or don't.
]]> <![CDATA[Twisted Tales: A Paranormal Anthology]]> 25729006
Eight talented authors from different writing backgrounds have come together in this anthology to spin stories of beings we find only in our deepest dreaming. Can you handle the power of the Twisted Tale?]]> 352 Phoenix Johnson 1514359677 John 3
An enjoyable collection of stories from a diverse group of authors encompassing different facets of the paranormal. Some are dark, others not so light, making for a mix of magics.

Not all of them were my speed, but that's the nature of an anthology- a mixed bag. There's something for everyone here. Dig in and find out what's in it for you.

]]> 4.36 2015 Twisted Tales: A Paranormal Anthology
author: Phoenix Johnson
name: John
average rating: 4.36
book published: 2015
rating: 3
read at: 2016/05/15
date added: 2016/05/17
shelves: short-story, werewolves, ya, anthology, paranormal-romance, own
review:
***Disclaimer: I received a free copy in exchange for a review.***

An enjoyable collection of stories from a diverse group of authors encompassing different facets of the paranormal. Some are dark, others not so light, making for a mix of magics.

Not all of them were my speed, but that's the nature of an anthology- a mixed bag. There's something for everyone here. Dig in and find out what's in it for you.


]]> <![CDATA[Harry Starke (Harry Starke, #1)]]> 26404724
“�.she saw me, stopped running, put her hands to her mouth, looked desperately around, then turned, ran to the rail, and started to climb�.�

Tormented by guilt and the thought that he might have caused the girl’s death, Harry vows to find out why Tabitha killed herself and plunges headlong into an investigation that pits him against a corrupt congressman, a beautiful United States senator, a local crime boss, and a sadistic killer. It's a case that will push Harry to the extremes of the law as he works his way through a web of deceit, extortion, high finance, corruption, sex, and three murders. In the end� well, as always, there’s a twist in the tale, several, in fact.

Scroll up and grab a copy today.
]]> 275 Blair Howard John 3
“He backed out of the car, sauntered- you ever seen a fat guy saunter? It’s hilarious…�

Starts off with a rush: one moment we’re in a local dive bar observing the wildlife, next it’s a woman committing suicide off the local bridge. At first blush you’d think this was a typical Mike Hammer gumshoe type novel. Not a chance; even though he’s kinda rough around the edges, our boy is educated, connected and resource-laden. He just knows where to look for what he’s looking for.

“Goddamn. Eleven o’clock already. I’m going to have to quit with booze� nah.�

Not surprisingly, the case takes us across the spectrum of society- from lowlifes looking to come up in the world to high rollers who know how to make use of lowlifes looking to come up in the world. And more than a few of them already have grudges against our boy.

“Why did she jump?�

Why indeed? A completely random encounter starts Harry on the path to a case that reaches further and deeper than he could’ve ever guessed, both professionally and personally. Every turn of the case leads him further into a web of deception, intrigue and secrets- and he’s not too sure he can stand the ride.

“No off-the-rack suit for him. The one he was wearing was expensive, tailored and� was that a slight bulge under his left arm?�

Like any good mystery, the reader’s not aware of anything Harry isn’t. This lets you settle in at Harry’s pace, putting the pieces together and watching them fly apart just as he does.

“There’s something so terribly final about those black body bags.�

My one real complaint would be to trim down the personal conversations; they feel too much like padding and don’t really add to things. It shouldn’t take three pages to set up a lunch meeting with someone to talk about the case. Inner monologues are good, giving insight into Harry’s character and methods. A very likeable guy, more at ease with a Blue Moon than a Pino Grigio, but knowledgeable of both.

This is one of the more enjoyable books I’ve read so far this year. Fast but evenly paced, an engaging protagonist, lots of characterization, a multi-layered mystery that has some interesting turns to it. Even his personal relationships get tossed into the blender. It’s a book that makes you want to read more of both the series and the genre itself.]]> 4.14 2015 Harry Starke (Harry Starke, #1)
author: Blair Howard
name: John
average rating: 4.14
book published: 2015
rating: 3
read at: 2016/05/16
date added: 2016/05/17
shelves: fiction, own, series, mystery, private-detective
review:
***Disclaimer: I received a free copy in exchange for a review.***

“He backed out of the car, sauntered- you ever seen a fat guy saunter? It’s hilarious…�

Starts off with a rush: one moment we’re in a local dive bar observing the wildlife, next it’s a woman committing suicide off the local bridge. At first blush you’d think this was a typical Mike Hammer gumshoe type novel. Not a chance; even though he’s kinda rough around the edges, our boy is educated, connected and resource-laden. He just knows where to look for what he’s looking for.

“Goddamn. Eleven o’clock already. I’m going to have to quit with booze� nah.�

Not surprisingly, the case takes us across the spectrum of society- from lowlifes looking to come up in the world to high rollers who know how to make use of lowlifes looking to come up in the world. And more than a few of them already have grudges against our boy.

“Why did she jump?�

Why indeed? A completely random encounter starts Harry on the path to a case that reaches further and deeper than he could’ve ever guessed, both professionally and personally. Every turn of the case leads him further into a web of deception, intrigue and secrets- and he’s not too sure he can stand the ride.

“No off-the-rack suit for him. The one he was wearing was expensive, tailored and� was that a slight bulge under his left arm?�

Like any good mystery, the reader’s not aware of anything Harry isn’t. This lets you settle in at Harry’s pace, putting the pieces together and watching them fly apart just as he does.

“There’s something so terribly final about those black body bags.�

My one real complaint would be to trim down the personal conversations; they feel too much like padding and don’t really add to things. It shouldn’t take three pages to set up a lunch meeting with someone to talk about the case. Inner monologues are good, giving insight into Harry’s character and methods. A very likeable guy, more at ease with a Blue Moon than a Pino Grigio, but knowledgeable of both.

This is one of the more enjoyable books I’ve read so far this year. Fast but evenly paced, an engaging protagonist, lots of characterization, a multi-layered mystery that has some interesting turns to it. Even his personal relationships get tossed into the blender. It’s a book that makes you want to read more of both the series and the genre itself.
]]> Argos 28537159
Raised from a pup by Greek hero, Odysseus, Argos has come to learn the true meaning of love and loyalty. But when Odysseus leaves for the Trojan War, little does Argos know it will be 20 years before he sees his master again. With Odysseus gone his wife, Penelope, and son, Telemachus, are easy prey for neighboring kings and the Gods themselves.

But Argos was tasked to keep them safe until Odysseus returns and that is a promise he is determined to keep � whatever the cost. Told through his eyes, Argos recounts the story of his life � his pain, his joy, his triumphs and failures; his endurance in the face of hardships almost too great to believe.

Above all else, Argos strives to do what is right � and to remain loyal to his King when all others have given up hope. To live long enough to see his beloved master one more time.

This epic myth of love and loyalty proves that a dog really is man's best friend.]]> 300 Phillip W. Simpson 0996890432 John 3 4.22 2016 Argos
author: Phillip W. Simpson
name: John
average rating: 4.22
book published: 2016
rating: 3
read at: 2016/05/16
date added: 2016/05/16
shelves:
review:

]]> She Walks in Shadows 25118836
Women from around the world delve into Lovecraftian depths, penning and illustrating a variety of Weird horrors. The pale and secretive Lavinia wanders through the woods, Asenath is a precocious teenager with an attitude, and the Ancient Egyptian pharaoh Nitocris has found a new body in distant America. And do you have time to hear a word from our beloved mother Shub-Niggurath?

Defiant, destructive, terrifying, and harrowing, the women in She Walks in Shadows are monsters and mothers, heroes and devourers. Observe them in all their glory. Iä! Iä!

TABLE OF CONTENTS
“Bitter Perfume� Laura Blackwell
“Violet is the Color of Your Energy� Nadia Bulkin
“Body to Body to Body� Selena Chambers
“Magna Mater� Arinn Dembo
“De Deabus Minoribus Exterioris Theomagicae� Jilly Dreadful
“Hairwork� Gemma Files
“The Head of T’la-yub� Nelly Geraldine García-Rosas (translated by Silvia Moreno-Garcia)
“Bring the Moon to Me� Amelia Gorman
“Chosen� Lyndsey Holder
“Eight Seconds� Pandora Hope
“Cthulhu of the Dead Sea� Inkeri Kontro
“Turn out the Lights� Penelope Love
“The Adventurer’s Wife� Premee Mohamed
“Notes Found in a Decommissioned Asylum, December 1961� Sharon Mock
“The Eye of Juno� Eugenie Mora
“Ammutseba Rising� Ann K. Schwader
“Cypress God� Rodopi Sisamis
“Lavinia’s Wood� Angela Slatter
“The Opera Singer� Priya Sridhar
“Provenance� Benjanun Sriduangkaew
“The Thing in The Cheerleading Squad� Molly Tanzer
“Lockbox� E. Catherine Tobler
“When She Quickens� Mary Turzillo
“Shub-Niggurath’s Witnesses� Valerie Valdes
“Queen of a New America� Wendy N. Wagner]]> 303 Silvia Moreno-Garcia 1927990165 John 3 3.73 2015 She Walks in Shadows
author: Silvia Moreno-Garcia
name: John
average rating: 3.73
book published: 2015
rating: 3
read at: 2015/10/16
date added: 2016/05/16
shelves:
review:

]]> <![CDATA[The Midnight Sea (The Fourth Element, #1)]]> 29763955
The steel against the necromancy of the Druj.

And they use demons to hunt demons�.

Nazafareen lives for revenge. A girl of the isolated Four-Legs Clan, all she knows about the King's elite Water Dogs is that they bind wicked creatures called daevas to protect the empire from the Undead. But when scouts arrive to recruit young people with the gift, she leaps at the chance to join their ranks. To hunt the monsters that killed her sister.

Scarred by grief, she's willing to pay any price, even if it requires linking with a daeva named Darius. Human in body, he's possessed of a terrifying power, one that Nazafareen controls. But the golden cuffs that join them have an unwanted side effect. Each experiences the other's emotions, and human and daeva start to grow dangerously close.

As they pursue a deadly foe across the arid waste of the Great Salt Plain to the glittering capital of Persepolae, unearthing the secrets of Darius's past along the way, Nazafareen is forced to question his slavery—and her own loyalty to the empire. But with an ancient evil stirring in the north, and a young conqueror sweeping in from the west, the fate of an entire civilization may be at stake�
]]> 360 Kat Ross 0997236205 John 2 4.07 2016 The Midnight Sea (The Fourth Element, #1)
author: Kat Ross
name: John
average rating: 4.07
book published: 2016
rating: 2
read at: 2016/05/15
date added: 2016/05/16
shelves:
review:

]]> <![CDATA[The Renegade Queen (Rebellious Times #1)]]> 28177537 Discarded by society, she led a social revolution. Disgusted by war, he sought a new world.

She was the first women to run for President, campaigning before women could vote.

He was the Hero of Vicksburg, disillusioned with the government after witnessing the devastating carnage of the Civil War.

Their social revolution attracted the unwanted who were left out of the new wealth: the freed slaves, the new immigrants, and women.

Who were they?

This is the true story of Victoria Woodhull and the love of her life, James Blood.

Adored by the poor, hated by the powerful, forced into hiding during their lifetimes and erased from history after death, the legend of their love lives on.

It’s 1869 and Victoria has a choice to make. She can stay in an abusive marriage and continue to work as a psychic, or she can take the offer of support from handsome Civil War general James Blood and set about to turn society upside down. Victoria chooses revolution.

But revolutions are expensive, and Victoria needs money. James introduces Victoria to one of the wealthiest man in America�"Commodore Vanderbilt. Along with her loose and scandalous sister, Tennessee, Victoria manipulates Vanderbilt and together they conspire to crash the stock market�"and profit from it. Victoria then parlays her fortune into the first female-owned brokerage firm.

When her idol Susan B. Anthony publishes scandalous rumors about Victoria’s past, Victoria enters into a fierce rivalry with Susan to control the women’s movement. James supports Victoria's efforts despite his deep fears that she may lose more than the battle. She might lose part of herself.

Victoria starts her own newspaper, testifies to Congress, and even announces her candidacy for President. But when Victoria adopts James's radical ideas and free love beliefs, she ignites new, bruising, battles with Susan B. Anthony and the powerful Reverend Henry Beecher. These skirmishes turn into an all-out war, with Victoria facing prejudice, prosecution, and imprisonment. Ultimately, Victoria and James face the hardest choice of all: the choice between their country and their love.

]]> 415 Eva Flynn 099698321X John 0 3.71 2015 The Renegade Queen (Rebellious Times #1)
author: Eva Flynn
name: John
average rating: 3.71
book published: 2015
rating: 0
read at: 2016/05/10
date added: 2016/05/10
shelves:
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Daughter of the Sun (Cult of the Cat #1)]]> 28934536
But before they can get to know each other, her grandmother dies. All that Trinity has left is a mysterious eye-shaped ring. And a thousand grieving cats. As Trinity tries to solve the enigma of the torn papyrus, she discovers a world of bloody sacrifices and evil curses, and a prophecy that points to her and her new feline abilities.

Unwilling to believe that any of the Egyptian gods could still be alive, Trinity turns to eighteen-year-old Seth and is instantly pulled into a vortex of sensations that forces her to confront her true self—and a horrifying destiny.]]> Zoe Kalo John 3
What's Good: Egyptology. So much of the Urban Fantasy genre focuses primarily on Celtic, Norse and even Greek mythology it's almost like authors have forgotten the rest of the world- Africa, China, Mexico, etc- even exists.

The main character, Trinity, is likeable and easy to root for. Her struggles and confusion are organic and well-founded under the circumstances; one of a few nice touches by the author.

As the mysteries surrounding Trinity's origins and the island itself coalesce, the plot & pacing tighten up and move along.

The whole concept of the Island of Cats seems kinda corny and juvenile at first- as does the nature of the curse Trinity's family suffers under- but both ultimately serve the story well enough.

What's Bad: the story takes forever to develop. Literally the entire first half of the book is consumed with trying to force Trinity into a cliched relationship with the resident bad boy, Seth, to say nothing of the cliched wanna-be love triangle involving her cousin, Ara. The hints and teases about Trinity's true nature and that of the other women gets drowned in all the stereotypical teen drahmaz. It takes so long for the story to kick in you're sorely tempted to move on to something else.

The other characters, including Ara and Seth, have little to no personalities of their own- like central casting was used to fill out the roster.

What's Left: an interesting YA urban fantasy tale with a couple of decent twists that leaves plenty of room for growth and development in future stories. If you manage to push through the slow start you'll be glad you did so.]]> 4.12 Daughter of the Sun (Cult of the Cat #1)
author: Zoe Kalo
name: John
average rating: 4.12
book published:
rating: 3
read at: 2016/05/04
date added: 2016/05/05
shelves: mythology-based, new-release, ya, paranormal-romance, own
review:
***Disclaimer: I received a free copy in exchange for a review.***

What's Good: Egyptology. So much of the Urban Fantasy genre focuses primarily on Celtic, Norse and even Greek mythology it's almost like authors have forgotten the rest of the world- Africa, China, Mexico, etc- even exists.

The main character, Trinity, is likeable and easy to root for. Her struggles and confusion are organic and well-founded under the circumstances; one of a few nice touches by the author.

As the mysteries surrounding Trinity's origins and the island itself coalesce, the plot & pacing tighten up and move along.

The whole concept of the Island of Cats seems kinda corny and juvenile at first- as does the nature of the curse Trinity's family suffers under- but both ultimately serve the story well enough.

What's Bad: the story takes forever to develop. Literally the entire first half of the book is consumed with trying to force Trinity into a cliched relationship with the resident bad boy, Seth, to say nothing of the cliched wanna-be love triangle involving her cousin, Ara. The hints and teases about Trinity's true nature and that of the other women gets drowned in all the stereotypical teen drahmaz. It takes so long for the story to kick in you're sorely tempted to move on to something else.

The other characters, including Ara and Seth, have little to no personalities of their own- like central casting was used to fill out the roster.

What's Left: an interesting YA urban fantasy tale with a couple of decent twists that leaves plenty of room for growth and development in future stories. If you manage to push through the slow start you'll be glad you did so.
]]> <![CDATA[Hell Hath No Fury (Queen of Hell Series Book 1)]]> 28960091 165 S.K. Gregory John 3 ***Disclaimer: I received a free copy in exchange for a reivew.***

Three losers walk into a sorority party. It all goes downhill from there.

The guys just wanted a good time at a Halloween campus party and end up with more than they bargained for- as in dead and at ground zero in a paranormal struggle for dominance. And we’re off to the races!

The driving conflict left me kinda flat; I just didn’t really get it. Sarah is determined at all costs to replace her older sister Sasha as the Queen of Hell in a pre-arranged marriage- much to their parents� delight- so why couldn’t their parents ever renegotiate the deal? And if going through with the arrangement would be such a bum deal for the bride, why didn’t Sasha just let Sarah read the contract for herself and see what was in store for her?

The most interesting aspect of the story was the changing POV; the story shifts between the perspectives of different characters. A clever device that works pretty good- letting you get inside each of their minds as things progress.

Gregory has an easy, uncluttered style of writing you can absorb with no trouble; her major gaffe is having obviously American characters always running around telling people to “piss off�. I enjoyed Jesse’s story arc; it had an organic flow to it that was easily acceptable. Not so much with Trace, who suddenly developed a key ability and got the hang of it right when it was most needed in one swoop. Sasha has her ups and downs; we just didn’t get deep enough into them to really see what they meant to her. Less telling, more showing is what's needed here.

Hell Hath No Fury is fast-paced, easy read that still raises more questions about its own mythology than it answers. Key among them being if Hell, Purgatory, etc, are merely other dimensions, what does that say about Christianity and religion? And some characters, such as Sasha and Sarah’s parents, I’d have liked to have seen more of, giving more background to the story. There’s enough in here to pique your interest, though.]]> 4.20 Hell Hath No Fury (Queen of Hell Series Book 1)
author: S.K. Gregory
name: John
average rating: 4.20
book published:
rating: 3
read at: 2016/03/13
date added: 2016/03/13
shelves: demons, horror, own, urban-fantasy
review:

***Disclaimer: I received a free copy in exchange for a reivew.***

Three losers walk into a sorority party. It all goes downhill from there.

The guys just wanted a good time at a Halloween campus party and end up with more than they bargained for- as in dead and at ground zero in a paranormal struggle for dominance. And we’re off to the races!

The driving conflict left me kinda flat; I just didn’t really get it. Sarah is determined at all costs to replace her older sister Sasha as the Queen of Hell in a pre-arranged marriage- much to their parents� delight- so why couldn’t their parents ever renegotiate the deal? And if going through with the arrangement would be such a bum deal for the bride, why didn’t Sasha just let Sarah read the contract for herself and see what was in store for her?

The most interesting aspect of the story was the changing POV; the story shifts between the perspectives of different characters. A clever device that works pretty good- letting you get inside each of their minds as things progress.

Gregory has an easy, uncluttered style of writing you can absorb with no trouble; her major gaffe is having obviously American characters always running around telling people to “piss off�. I enjoyed Jesse’s story arc; it had an organic flow to it that was easily acceptable. Not so much with Trace, who suddenly developed a key ability and got the hang of it right when it was most needed in one swoop. Sasha has her ups and downs; we just didn’t get deep enough into them to really see what they meant to her. Less telling, more showing is what's needed here.

Hell Hath No Fury is fast-paced, easy read that still raises more questions about its own mythology than it answers. Key among them being if Hell, Purgatory, etc, are merely other dimensions, what does that say about Christianity and religion? And some characters, such as Sasha and Sarah’s parents, I’d have liked to have seen more of, giving more background to the story. There’s enough in here to pique your interest, though.
]]> I Wish I'd Never Met You 28496222 There's only so long you can hide who you are.

Flick Lindenwood, fresh from college, has returned home to the suburban haven of Green Valley, back to society... and the source of her heartbreak. Four years ago Elodie Hamilton savagely broke her heart and she has no intention of letting her pretty ex get back under her skin. As far as she's concerned, she and Elodie never happened.

But Elodie has other ideas.

Afraid to come out, Elodie chose to destroy her relationship with Flick rather than let her family know who she was. But now she wants to right the wrong she did—if she can only find the nerve, and if she can convince Flick to see past the pain she caused.
]]> 37 Tanith Davenport 1786513773 John 3 ***Disclaimer: I received a free copy in exchange for a review.***

Flick’s having a bad time, coming back home to her first- and maybe true- love, the one who broke her heart in a very shameful and tacky fashion that sets up the story well. Elodie’s struggle with coming out feels a little odd, considering most of the supporting cast in the story is either gay or on the verge of coming out themselves. Elodie’s own sister is about to have a coming out party hosted by their mother (there’s a conspicuous absence of fathers in the story), but she’s never been so comfortable. In fact, it did feel odd for Elodie to have such fears while surrounded by all the acceptance from both friends and family in their community.

The writing style is smooth and fluid, keeping the story moving and never letting Flick get bogged down in too much angst about her situation. There’s a tendency to repeat and reuse certain words during the erotic encounters. Flick’s POV is consistent and steady, letting you get to know her. Author Tanith Davenport has a good touch with dialogue but some of the settings feel like white space.

The erotic moments are sensual and romantic, but end up being the focus of the story. In a way, everything comes down to sex for Flick. The moment she sees someone that reminds her of Elodie, her hand slips into her pants. Flick’s so fragile about seeing Elodie again that she’s sizing up every female that crosses her line of sight. And once she’s finally had her say to Elodie, she’s quick to fall back into bed with her.

Overall a good read, a decent story. ]]> 3.62 2016 I Wish I'd Never Met You
author: Tanith Davenport
name: John
average rating: 3.62
book published: 2016
rating: 3
read at: 2016/03/09
date added: 2016/03/10
shelves: erotica, lesbian-romance, lesbian, new-release, own, short-story
review:

***Disclaimer: I received a free copy in exchange for a review.***

Flick’s having a bad time, coming back home to her first- and maybe true- love, the one who broke her heart in a very shameful and tacky fashion that sets up the story well. Elodie’s struggle with coming out feels a little odd, considering most of the supporting cast in the story is either gay or on the verge of coming out themselves. Elodie’s own sister is about to have a coming out party hosted by their mother (there’s a conspicuous absence of fathers in the story), but she’s never been so comfortable. In fact, it did feel odd for Elodie to have such fears while surrounded by all the acceptance from both friends and family in their community.

The writing style is smooth and fluid, keeping the story moving and never letting Flick get bogged down in too much angst about her situation. There’s a tendency to repeat and reuse certain words during the erotic encounters. Flick’s POV is consistent and steady, letting you get to know her. Author Tanith Davenport has a good touch with dialogue but some of the settings feel like white space.

The erotic moments are sensual and romantic, but end up being the focus of the story. In a way, everything comes down to sex for Flick. The moment she sees someone that reminds her of Elodie, her hand slips into her pants. Flick’s so fragile about seeing Elodie again that she’s sizing up every female that crosses her line of sight. And once she’s finally had her say to Elodie, she’s quick to fall back into bed with her.

Overall a good read, a decent story.
]]> <![CDATA[The Enchanted (Faerie Tale, #1)]]> 28576192
Somewhere across the earthly realm of Wales, Taryn of Hamilhawk dreams of a magical forest with music in its trees and a man who holds her heart in his hands. But she’s afraid of magic and, looking out her lonely tower window, prays each night to forget him. She has no idea that soon she will be his wife and that she will somehow save both him and herself from a force that threatens their future. She would never imagine that her path to passionate love will be filled with faeries, a talking tree, and a shape-changing king � and best it not be revealed until Taryn is free to bring her own magnificence and resilience to bear.

All she knows is that he calls out to her in her dreams. “Save me, Taryn.�

And her heart, no matter how she tries to deny it, must answer.]]> 276 Genevra Thorne 1513706942 John 2 ***Disclaimer: I received a free copy in exchange for a review.***

The fantasy setting is typical faerie fare; a magical realm just off from human lands where everything’s coming up roses. The human realm’s pretty idyllic, too- but that’s what comes from dealing with faeries in a romance novel.

There’s a conflict contained herein, but it gets lost in the shuffle to the point of almost being an afterthought. The romance between Gabriel and Taryn is what’s key here, and while it works and is *very* romantic- I have to give props for that- it overshadows everything else. Key details get glossed over, mentioned after the fact or just dropped in out of the sky, and it doesn’t help that at first you don’t even know why these two are being thrust together. Taryn suddenly appears on the scene, all forlorn and lonely in her father’s castle, and suddenly *BAM!*- Gabriel shows up to marry her to secure an alliance. Literally never saw it coming, and the reasons for it won’t appear until the finale.

Characters are interesting in that they show a few cracks in their tropes, some actual character. My favorite was Elusen, Gabriel's faerie half-brother who has a somewhat unhealthy attraction to Taryn, which plays a key supporting role in the story.

The dialogue is too formal at times, stiff and stilted. A clear style choice from the author, but it clogs up the story. Hearing a character refer to events from when they were ten and three years old knocks you right out of things.

Which brings me to the narrative. Again, being a romance, the relationship between our main couple is the focal point, but there’s supposed to be a looming obstacle in Aneira’s glamour over Gabriel standing in the way. It gets shorted a lot; the motivations for Aneria’s actions are never really clear, especially towards the end where a couple of twists are revealed and even some characters are wondering what the reasons for them are, only to never be answered. The author’s style shines when shifting to Taryn’s POV; her thoughts and impressions of her growing attraction to Gabriel make for the best moments in the story. There’s not enough of them and they’re too few and far between, making for very slow going.

Faerie Tale: The Enchanted has its moments and a solid premise to build upon, but needs some tightening up to make it really shine.]]> 4.59 2016 The Enchanted (Faerie Tale, #1)
author: Genevra Thorne
name: John
average rating: 4.59
book published: 2016
rating: 2
read at: 2016/03/07
date added: 2016/03/07
shelves: fantasy, faries, fiction, historical-romance, romance
review:

***Disclaimer: I received a free copy in exchange for a review.***

The fantasy setting is typical faerie fare; a magical realm just off from human lands where everything’s coming up roses. The human realm’s pretty idyllic, too- but that’s what comes from dealing with faeries in a romance novel.

There’s a conflict contained herein, but it gets lost in the shuffle to the point of almost being an afterthought. The romance between Gabriel and Taryn is what’s key here, and while it works and is *very* romantic- I have to give props for that- it overshadows everything else. Key details get glossed over, mentioned after the fact or just dropped in out of the sky, and it doesn’t help that at first you don’t even know why these two are being thrust together. Taryn suddenly appears on the scene, all forlorn and lonely in her father’s castle, and suddenly *BAM!*- Gabriel shows up to marry her to secure an alliance. Literally never saw it coming, and the reasons for it won’t appear until the finale.

Characters are interesting in that they show a few cracks in their tropes, some actual character. My favorite was Elusen, Gabriel's faerie half-brother who has a somewhat unhealthy attraction to Taryn, which plays a key supporting role in the story.

The dialogue is too formal at times, stiff and stilted. A clear style choice from the author, but it clogs up the story. Hearing a character refer to events from when they were ten and three years old knocks you right out of things.

Which brings me to the narrative. Again, being a romance, the relationship between our main couple is the focal point, but there’s supposed to be a looming obstacle in Aneira’s glamour over Gabriel standing in the way. It gets shorted a lot; the motivations for Aneria’s actions are never really clear, especially towards the end where a couple of twists are revealed and even some characters are wondering what the reasons for them are, only to never be answered. The author’s style shines when shifting to Taryn’s POV; her thoughts and impressions of her growing attraction to Gabriel make for the best moments in the story. There’s not enough of them and they’re too few and far between, making for very slow going.

Faerie Tale: The Enchanted has its moments and a solid premise to build upon, but needs some tightening up to make it really shine.
]]> <![CDATA[Spook Lights: Southern Gothic Horror]]> 25558451
Sinister shopkeepers whose goods hold the highest price, a woman’s search for her mother drags her into the binding embrace of a monster, a witchdoctor’s young niece tells him a life-altering secret, an investigator who knows how to keep a 100% confession rate�.

These are stories where the setting itself becomes a character—fog laced cemeteries, sulfur rich salt marshes—places housing creatures that defy understanding and where the grotesque and macabre are celebrated.]]> 135 Eden Royce John 4
I have to agree with the review/blurb above- the stories here are wonderfully atmospheric. A central theme running through them is the climes and cultures of the Deep South rooted in the African diaspora- gullah, geechi, obeah, even Native American, West African and Haitian.

Like all short story collections some will stay with you and some you'll breeze through. The Choking Kind is my favorite- a tale of love gone wrong where a woman in search of her mother's grave discovers she might not be dead after all. Hand of Glory- about a police detective with a perfect case record- was all too short; just when it might be getting interesting it was over. Path of the War Chief- the widow of a warchief proving her worth to lead the tribe into battle- was also pretty good. A little confusing, but good.

One thing I found off-putting was the overabundance of women-against-bad men tales. The first six stories and nine of the twelve are built upon this device- as well as the old seeress who walks with shadows; only one man does any conjuring- which got to be kind of stale and repetitive after a while. One of the stories takes the form of a tone poem that helps change things up.

Spook Lights is one of those books that you want to kick back with on a warm night and let the magic take you away... well, hopefully not.

]]> 4.11 2015 Spook Lights: Southern Gothic Horror
author: Eden Royce
name: John
average rating: 4.11
book published: 2015
rating: 4
read at: 2015/12/30
date added: 2015/12/30
shelves: fiction, horror, own, short-story, supernatural
review:
***Disclaimer: I received a free copy in exchange for a review.***

I have to agree with the review/blurb above- the stories here are wonderfully atmospheric. A central theme running through them is the climes and cultures of the Deep South rooted in the African diaspora- gullah, geechi, obeah, even Native American, West African and Haitian.

Like all short story collections some will stay with you and some you'll breeze through. The Choking Kind is my favorite- a tale of love gone wrong where a woman in search of her mother's grave discovers she might not be dead after all. Hand of Glory- about a police detective with a perfect case record- was all too short; just when it might be getting interesting it was over. Path of the War Chief- the widow of a warchief proving her worth to lead the tribe into battle- was also pretty good. A little confusing, but good.

One thing I found off-putting was the overabundance of women-against-bad men tales. The first six stories and nine of the twelve are built upon this device- as well as the old seeress who walks with shadows; only one man does any conjuring- which got to be kind of stale and repetitive after a while. One of the stories takes the form of a tone poem that helps change things up.

Spook Lights is one of those books that you want to kick back with on a warm night and let the magic take you away... well, hopefully not.


]]> <![CDATA[Doom of the Dragon (Dragonships of Vindras #4)]]> 25659480
In three previous novels, Skylan Ivorson overcame obstacles that would have defeated a lesser man, rising from obscurity to become the Chief of Chiefs of the fearsome Vindrasi who sail their living dragonships far and wide to raid and plunder for the glory of the gods. However, a cruel twist of fate struck him down before he and his beloved could complete their quest for the five sacred dragonbones that would summon the great dragon Ilyrion and save their people from destruction at the hands of an evil god. But even true death is denied him, and his destiny is unfulfilled.

Caught between life and death, he must lead those who journeyed with him to battle the evil god and the vast army of the god and his human emperor. Skylan must fight as he never has before to win back his life and his love, while seeking the last Spiritbone--the key to summoning the ultimate victory--before it can be snatched away by the forces of evil.

With Doom of the Dragon, Weis and Hickman have crafted a pulse-pounding fantasy adventure that brings their great Dragonships of Vindras saga to a rousing, satisfying conclusion that will stir the passions of their legions of fans.]]> 400 Margaret Weis 0765319764 John 0 to-read 4.03 2016 Doom of the Dragon (Dragonships of Vindras #4)
author: Margaret Weis
name: John
average rating: 4.03
book published: 2016
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2015/12/29
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> <![CDATA[The Night Voice (Noble Dead Saga: Series 3, #5)]]> 25361874 The New York Times bestselling authors of First and Last Sorcerer present the final breathtaking chapter in their epic Noble Dead saga....

With much relief, Magiere, Leesil, and Chap prepare to hide the last two of the powerful orbs. Once this last great task is completed, Magiere can take Leesil home to a life of peace.

Then, rumors reach them that a horde of undead creatures, slaughtering everything in their wake, are gathering in the far east regions of the Suman desert. This gathering could only be caused by the Ancient Enemy awakening.

With no other choice, Magiere tells Leesil they cannot go home yet. They must go to the desert and seek to learn if the rumors are true . . . and if so, face an awakening evil: The Night Voice.]]> 432 Barb Hendee 0451469321 John 0 to-read 4.03 2016 The Night Voice (Noble Dead Saga: Series 3, #5)
author: Barb Hendee
name: John
average rating: 4.03
book published: 2016
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2015/12/29
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Staked (The Iron Druid Chronicles, #8)]]> 16280689
As always, Atticus wouldn't mind a little backup. But his allies have problems of their own. Ill-tempered archdruid Owen Kennedy is having a wee bit of troll turns out when you stiff a troll, it's not water under the bridge. Meanwhile, Granuaile is desperate to free herself of the Norse god Loki's mark and elude his powers of divination - a quest that will bring her face to face with several Slavic nightmares.

As Atticus globetrots to stop his nemesis Theophilus, the journey leads to Rome. What better place to end an immortal than the Eternal City? But poetic justice won't come without a In order to defeat Theophilus, Atticus may have to lose an old friend.]]> 310 Kevin Hearne 0345548515 John 0 to-read 4.23 2016 Staked (The Iron Druid Chronicles, #8)
author: Kevin Hearne
name: John
average rating: 4.23
book published: 2016
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2015/12/29
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> Bleizgeist 27772952
Marked by magic she cannot control, Marishka is an outcast. Alone and starving she is plagued by geiste, the unconscious minds of the people of Ingary, roaming the wilderness as they sleep. Attracted to the gramarye in Marishka’s blood, the geiste give her no rest. Losing herself to madness, she is saved when she chances to fall in love. But when her affair is discovered, all hope is taken from her.

Beaten and lovelorn, she resigns herself to death.

And then the wolf walks through her door, and Marishka recalls the meaning of Bleizgeist—the spirit of the wolf.]]> Hazel Butler John 0 to-read 3.43 Bleizgeist
author: Hazel Butler
name: John
average rating: 3.43
book published:
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2015/12/14
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> <![CDATA[The Witch of Skye (Morag the Witch of Skye Book 1)]]> 24234913 24 Marta Savarino John 1
The text is badly in need of editing. Run-ons, uncapitalized words, incorrect tenses- you name it, it's here! It's pretty clear that English is not the author's first language. And add to that it's boring.

The first third of the book is Morag infodumping and over-describing everything- herself, her family history, her wolf, her nightly walks with her mum, making healing potions for the family, the legend of aunt Deirdre (sic), and on and on...

On the eve of her seventeenth birthday, Morag undergoes a ritual- a rite of passage (or as the book says, passage rite), as all witches must. She travels back to Seventeenth Century Scotland to meet Deirdre, her ancestor and first witch of their line. Morag learns a few family secrets and Deirdre annoits her a full-fledged witch... but there's a problem.

First installment of a series, it needs a complete overhaul to make it work.]]> 3.75 2014 The Witch of Skye (Morag the Witch of Skye Book 1)
author: Marta Savarino
name: John
average rating: 3.75
book published: 2014
rating: 1
read at: 2015/02/11
date added: 2015/12/06
shelves: fantasy, fiction, own, series, short-story
review:
Wasn't expecting too much when the blurb already has a misspelled word (misterius), and I wasn't disapponted.

The text is badly in need of editing. Run-ons, uncapitalized words, incorrect tenses- you name it, it's here! It's pretty clear that English is not the author's first language. And add to that it's boring.

The first third of the book is Morag infodumping and over-describing everything- herself, her family history, her wolf, her nightly walks with her mum, making healing potions for the family, the legend of aunt Deirdre (sic), and on and on...

On the eve of her seventeenth birthday, Morag undergoes a ritual- a rite of passage (or as the book says, passage rite), as all witches must. She travels back to Seventeenth Century Scotland to meet Deirdre, her ancestor and first witch of their line. Morag learns a few family secrets and Deirdre annoits her a full-fledged witch... but there's a problem.

First installment of a series, it needs a complete overhaul to make it work.
]]> <![CDATA[Isis' Betrayal (Rowan Sisters' Trilogy, # 2)]]> 25538314 Librarian Note: There is an updated cover for this edition with ASIN B00XJPWWCM

Isis Rowan is the fiery middle sister of the prophesized witch triplets, and when she finds out that the High Priestess Cele has not only attempted to kill her sister, but is also practicing dark magic and committing atrocious acts to gain power, she is ready to chop off some heads. To make matters worse, Cele has also targeted the gorgeous and sexy human-sex demon hybrid Braeden, who also happens to be her Fated Mate. Isis is ready to kick some ass, until she realizes that Braeden is not all that he seems. Once she uncovers the truth, it’s all-out war, and while she has no problem giving her destructive temper free reign, she must channel her anger to thwart Cele, and save those she loves. Goddess help the evil High Priestess when Isis finally gets ahold of her.

Braeden Hall, a cambion who needs sex to survive, finds himself in an impossible situation when his son is kidnapped by an insane High Priestess and held captive. To free him, Braeden thinks he’s given a simple task of collecting information on a sexy female until the witch he is to manipulate ends up being the one female meant for him, his Fated Mate. He is ultimately forced to choose between loving Isis and protecting his son. He wants nothing more than to claim Isis for eternity, but that means his son will die. The precarious balance all cambions live with is threatened, and he fears becoming a full-blown sex demon who will rape and pillage without thought. Will he be able to overcome Isis� infamous temper and convince her to not only become his ally, but ultimately, his mate?]]> 120 Brenda Trim John 2
This is one of those PNR/UF series that's in it for the sex instead of the magic and myths, making for a light, quick and easy to read. There's just enough of a story to hold it together until the next sex scene, which there are plenty of and does get pretty steamy at times- nothing wrong with that at all. Still, there's a couple of things that bugged me.

First, the title is misleading as there's no real betrayal. While Braeden's mission is to do so, he never does; the sisters discover what's going on and quickly offer to help him. Plus the little bit of info Braeden delivers is much of nothing that Cele couldn't have pieced together herself.

Second, as is always the case with Insta-Luv Soul Mates, there's no choice or even the illusion of it. Once you hook up and get marked, that's it- you're FATED, you're DESTINED to be together... which really takes all the tension and drama out of things. And the fact that Braeden and Isis both knew it didn't exactly up the ante, either. Just makes for a lot of marking time until we get to the forgone conclusion.

Bottom line: read it for the sex and don't think too hard about anything, and you'll be fine.]]> 4.32 2015 Isis' Betrayal (Rowan Sisters' Trilogy, # 2)
author: Brenda Trim
name: John
average rating: 4.32
book published: 2015
rating: 2
read at: 2015/11/12
date added: 2015/11/13
shelves: demons, erotica, fiction, mythology-based, own, paranormal-romance, porn-with-plot, series, supernatural, urban-fantasy, vampires
review:
***Disclaimer: I received a free copy in exchange for a review.***

This is one of those PNR/UF series that's in it for the sex instead of the magic and myths, making for a light, quick and easy to read. There's just enough of a story to hold it together until the next sex scene, which there are plenty of and does get pretty steamy at times- nothing wrong with that at all. Still, there's a couple of things that bugged me.

First, the title is misleading as there's no real betrayal. While Braeden's mission is to do so, he never does; the sisters discover what's going on and quickly offer to help him. Plus the little bit of info Braeden delivers is much of nothing that Cele couldn't have pieced together herself.

Second, as is always the case with Insta-Luv Soul Mates, there's no choice or even the illusion of it. Once you hook up and get marked, that's it- you're FATED, you're DESTINED to be together... which really takes all the tension and drama out of things. And the fact that Braeden and Isis both knew it didn't exactly up the ante, either. Just makes for a lot of marking time until we get to the forgone conclusion.

Bottom line: read it for the sex and don't think too hard about anything, and you'll be fine.
]]> <![CDATA[Season Of The Witch (Shades Below #1.5)]]> 25078491 Librarian's Note: This is an alternate cover edition for ASIN B0160N4DCQ

**AUTHOR'S NOTE: Can be read as a standalone**

Something wicked this way comes...well, more wicked than usual.

Georgia Clare needs help, and fast. The lone survivor of her coven's brutal massacre, she's all too aware of the target on her back. Now the rest of San Francisco's witching guild believes she's a killer. Too bad for her the only man she can turn to isn't interested in working for a witch, innocent or otherwise.

Darius deCompostela has done his best to steer clear of subversive affairs. A private investigator and reluctant medium,the last thing he wants is to advertise his existence to the things that go bump in the night. But then Georgia knocks on his door, and try as he might, he can't turn her away.

Together, Georgia and Darius must navigate San Francisco's sometimes-treacherous demimonde in their hunt for a killer. Past sins come due,and both are forced to face their demons...in more ways than one.

The lines between good and evil, personal and professional, become blurred. In the fight that ensues, only the wicked will survive.]]> 371 L.J.K. Oliva John 4
This is kind of book I enjoy reading. The kind that engrosses you, intrigues you and makes you want to read more of the author's work.

In a lot of ways this is the kind of book that shows what Urban Fantasy should be. Multi-layered storytelling, compelling characters and a magic system fully invested in its mythology and methodology for functioning in modern society. It's also an example of what ParaNormal Romance should be: a fleshed out story where the principals get to know each other while considering the ramifications of their growing mutual attraction. No Insta-Luv, no Soulmates from the Dawn of Time, etc. Just two people trying to survive a dangerous situation who happen to find each other along the way.

Laura Olivia has crafted an intelligent, almost lyrical story here. The pacing remains even throughout- though it could've picked up a little, the flow was constant. Olivia has a flare for dialogue and crafting conversations as well as inner monologue; you really get to know and understand Georgia and Darius more through their thoughts and interactions than their interlocking body parts. Both characters have issues and baggage from their pasts to overcome and move on from- though Darius' made him seem kind of thick for not having worked on it beforehand, especially with so many ready resources available to help him.

What I also liked was the fact it was a UF/PNR book that actually dealt with an interracial romance. I can't be the only one who finds the oddest aspect of the UF/PNR genre is how despite the rich histories of magic and mystery these books use and build upon from all over the world it's only ok to engage in all kinds of sexual olympics with a shapeshifter, undead or otherworldly creature of some sort... so long as they fit only one racial profile. While I thought the book should've touched more on the obstacles such a relationship would face even in these times, it remained a refreshing change of pace. And I'll leave it at that.

Season of the Witch is one of the more enjoyable and engaging books I've read this year. And I've no doubt you'll feel the same. ]]> 4.09 2015 Season Of The Witch (Shades Below #1.5)
author: L.J.K. Oliva
name: John
average rating: 4.09
book published: 2015
rating: 4
read at: 2015/11/07
date added: 2015/11/08
shelves: demons, fiction, horror, new-release, own, paranormal-romance, series, supernatural, urban-fantasy
review:
***Disclaimer: I received a free copy in exchange for a review.***

This is kind of book I enjoy reading. The kind that engrosses you, intrigues you and makes you want to read more of the author's work.

In a lot of ways this is the kind of book that shows what Urban Fantasy should be. Multi-layered storytelling, compelling characters and a magic system fully invested in its mythology and methodology for functioning in modern society. It's also an example of what ParaNormal Romance should be: a fleshed out story where the principals get to know each other while considering the ramifications of their growing mutual attraction. No Insta-Luv, no Soulmates from the Dawn of Time, etc. Just two people trying to survive a dangerous situation who happen to find each other along the way.

Laura Olivia has crafted an intelligent, almost lyrical story here. The pacing remains even throughout- though it could've picked up a little, the flow was constant. Olivia has a flare for dialogue and crafting conversations as well as inner monologue; you really get to know and understand Georgia and Darius more through their thoughts and interactions than their interlocking body parts. Both characters have issues and baggage from their pasts to overcome and move on from- though Darius' made him seem kind of thick for not having worked on it beforehand, especially with so many ready resources available to help him.

What I also liked was the fact it was a UF/PNR book that actually dealt with an interracial romance. I can't be the only one who finds the oddest aspect of the UF/PNR genre is how despite the rich histories of magic and mystery these books use and build upon from all over the world it's only ok to engage in all kinds of sexual olympics with a shapeshifter, undead or otherworldly creature of some sort... so long as they fit only one racial profile. While I thought the book should've touched more on the obstacles such a relationship would face even in these times, it remained a refreshing change of pace. And I'll leave it at that.

Season of the Witch is one of the more enjoyable and engaging books I've read this year. And I've no doubt you'll feel the same.
]]> Rise of the Sidenah 26884202
Adrienna Vedica can’t remember a time when she didn’t long to build the creatures living in her imagination. One day, she hopes to sculpt them out of stone, like the great statues that guard the Celany village. She doesn’t understand why everyone seems to disapprove. It’s only when Tishaan, a powerful man in the high council, agrees to help her sculpt that Adrienna is finally able to pursue her passion. She dives into her work, but creates with such energy that she collapses from exhaustion before seeing the final results, giving Tishaan time to hide her masterpieces away. Her mentor, Sreng—the man she secretly loves—tries to convince her that Tishaan is using her, but she can’t abandon her art. Only when people start showing up dead does she think again. There’s something off about Tishaan…and then Sreng shows her one of her early works. But something is wrong. It’s alive. And it’s digging a grave.]]> Colleen M. Story 1311120416 John 2
What's Bad: Being thrust into the middle of events with no real context for events and character dynamics and relationships. Things feel rushed because you don't really know what's going on and are always trying to catch up. Mostly because the history, culture, magical systems and powers of the Sidenah are never fully explained or explored. The reader is left to infer/guess at a lot of things. A good chunk of the plot revolves around exactly who knows what Adrienna is (most everyone) and can do, and keeping this from her while trying to manipulate her for their own ends.

What's Left: an interesting, if somewhat cliched story that needs some tweaking. ]]> 2.00 2015 Rise of the Sidenah
author: Colleen M. Story
name: John
average rating: 2.00
book published: 2015
rating: 2
read at: 2015/10/29
date added: 2015/10/29
shelves: fantasy, fiction, new-release, own, ya
review:
What's Good: A multi-layered story with lots of characters, an interesting magic system.

What's Bad: Being thrust into the middle of events with no real context for events and character dynamics and relationships. Things feel rushed because you don't really know what's going on and are always trying to catch up. Mostly because the history, culture, magical systems and powers of the Sidenah are never fully explained or explored. The reader is left to infer/guess at a lot of things. A good chunk of the plot revolves around exactly who knows what Adrienna is (most everyone) and can do, and keeping this from her while trying to manipulate her for their own ends.

What's Left: an interesting, if somewhat cliched story that needs some tweaking.
]]> Dragon Song 27189948
Fiona Firesblood, dragon-shifter and noble queen, will stop at nothing to protect her child, even if it means she must sever the bond with her mate, Duncan MacQuoid, the one man she loves above all others, and the one man whose past could destroy them all.

Safina Firesblood, daughter of a cursed union between dragon and dragonslayer, has grown into a young woman, a powerful dragon princess in her own right. She’s given one chance at true love; will she risk the dragon queen’s wrath or resign herself to an eternity of sorrow?]]> 216 Tara West 1517783690 John 0 3.66 2015 Dragon Song
author: Tara West
name: John
average rating: 3.66
book published: 2015
rating: 0
read at: 2015/10/19
date added: 2015/10/19
shelves:
review:

]]> <![CDATA[In The Foothills of Mt. Empyreal: The End is Now]]> 22077604
Two writers, tell two very different stories detailing the same event.

Griot. Raconteur. Bard. Jongleur. Skop. Spinner of yarns. Rabbi. Named by a thousand words, storytellers and those who crave them know one thing as true: that every truth has two sides.

This is a simple truth that has not been denied.

In a world with two realities the imaginations of author's Crystal Connor and Lori Titus are unleashed upon the unsuspecting people living in the Foothills of Mt. Empyreal and the fate of all the world hangs in the balance.

Who will save you now?]]> 352 Crystal Connor 1494964198 John 0 4.69 2014 In The Foothills of Mt. Empyreal: The End is Now
author: Crystal Connor
name: John
average rating: 4.69
book published: 2014
rating: 0
read at: 2015/10/05
date added: 2015/10/05
shelves:
review:

]]> Vienna Sky 25838584 Josh Sinason John 0 4.50 2015 Vienna Sky
author: Josh Sinason
name: John
average rating: 4.50
book published: 2015
rating: 0
read at: 2015/09/30
date added: 2015/09/30
shelves:
review:

]]> Lucid 25002579 246 Jay Bonansinga 1618685325 John 2
Another example of Good Idea, Bad Execution.

The idea of lucid dreaming- being aware that you're dreaming, or at its extreme point even dreaming while awake- is a concept that's rife with potential and intriguing to explore. Storywise, think of Lucid Dreaming as a Matrix-style environment, with Lori setting out on the path to become Neo.

Lucid hits all the typical YA notes- Chosen One, Social Misfit, etc- which is fine as far as it goes, but the problems here lie with the delivery.

From the outset you're treated to an endless stream of infodumps about everything- the characters, their backgrounds (which largely don't even matter) and of course the science and theory behind Lucid Dreaming. You'll know exactly when something's about to happen because right before it does you'll get a few paragraphs dropping the pertinent information in your lap so you'll know what's going on. The author really needs to find a better way to weave this info into the mix; after the third time I started skimming because it was all just getting in the way of the story.

There's also the classic problem of Show, Don't Tell. Author Jay Bonansinga is very good when he needs to TELL you what's going on- he always does it. He just doesn't SHOW it very well. Again, large portions of the book are relegated to infodumps and minutiae which jar you right out of the flow because now you have to stop and absorb a block of jargon and set-up material in order for the next scene to make sense.

Speaking of the infodumps, he also needs to learn when and why to bring information. A supporting character is going to play a very important role in the story, but from the moment they come on the scene it's revealed to the reader why they're so important. You're flat out told who/what they are long before you'd even need to know about it- destroying any possible tension and drama this could create in the story arc, plus Lori herself doesn't find out until two-thirds of the way in.

Not good.

There's a lot of potential within the story. A lot. It just needs a lot of work to bring out.]]> 3.78 2015 Lucid
author: Jay Bonansinga
name: John
average rating: 3.78
book published: 2015
rating: 2
read at: 2015/09/19
date added: 2015/09/19
shelves: demons, existential-musings, fiction, new-release, own, sci-fi, supernatural, urban-fantasy, ya
review:
***Disclaimer: I received a free copy in exchange for a review.***

Another example of Good Idea, Bad Execution.

The idea of lucid dreaming- being aware that you're dreaming, or at its extreme point even dreaming while awake- is a concept that's rife with potential and intriguing to explore. Storywise, think of Lucid Dreaming as a Matrix-style environment, with Lori setting out on the path to become Neo.

Lucid hits all the typical YA notes- Chosen One, Social Misfit, etc- which is fine as far as it goes, but the problems here lie with the delivery.

From the outset you're treated to an endless stream of infodumps about everything- the characters, their backgrounds (which largely don't even matter) and of course the science and theory behind Lucid Dreaming. You'll know exactly when something's about to happen because right before it does you'll get a few paragraphs dropping the pertinent information in your lap so you'll know what's going on. The author really needs to find a better way to weave this info into the mix; after the third time I started skimming because it was all just getting in the way of the story.

There's also the classic problem of Show, Don't Tell. Author Jay Bonansinga is very good when he needs to TELL you what's going on- he always does it. He just doesn't SHOW it very well. Again, large portions of the book are relegated to infodumps and minutiae which jar you right out of the flow because now you have to stop and absorb a block of jargon and set-up material in order for the next scene to make sense.

Speaking of the infodumps, he also needs to learn when and why to bring information. A supporting character is going to play a very important role in the story, but from the moment they come on the scene it's revealed to the reader why they're so important. You're flat out told who/what they are long before you'd even need to know about it- destroying any possible tension and drama this could create in the story arc, plus Lori herself doesn't find out until two-thirds of the way in.

Not good.

There's a lot of potential within the story. A lot. It just needs a lot of work to bring out.
]]> Boondocks Fantasy 9517171
Featuring original stories by Gene Wolfe, Timothy Zahn, Chris Pierson, Mickey Zucker Reichert, Steven Savile, Elizabeth A. Vaughan, Jay Lake, Anton Strout, and many more.

Introduction, copyright © 2011 by Jean Rabe
“The Giant,� copyright © 2011 by Gene Wolfe
“Protection,� copyright © 2011 by Timothy Zahn
“Lake People,� copyright © 2011 by Chris Pierson
“Cat People,� copyright © 2011 by Mickey Zucker Reichert
“The Horned Man,� copyright © 2011 by Steven Savile
“The Feud,� copyright © 2011 by Patrick McGilligan
“The Devil Is a Gentleman,� copyright © 2011 by Raymond Benson
“Eternal Vigilance,� copyright © 2011 by Dylan Birtolo
“The Taste of Strawberry Jam,� copyright © 2011 by Elizabeth A. Vaughan
“The Storyteller,� copyright © 2011 by D.L. Stever
“Being Neighborly,� copyright © 2011 by Jeanne Cook
“Marfa,� copyright © 2011 by Anton Strout
“Aware,� copyright © 2011 by C.J. Henderson
“Sully’s Solution,� copyright © 2011 by Kelly Swails
“Trophy Wife,� copyright © 2011 by Vicki Johnson-Steger
“Fairies Weep Not,� copyright © 2011 by Linda P. Baker
“Siren Tears,� copyright © 2011 by John Lambshead
“Jefferson’s West,� copyright © 2011 by Joseph E. Lake, Jr.
“Black Rider,� copyright © 2011 by Brian A. Hopkins
“Rural Route,� copyright © 2011 by Donald J. Bingle]]> 320 Jean Rabe 0756406536 John 0 to-read 3.28 2011 Boondocks Fantasy
author: Jean Rabe
name: John
average rating: 3.28
book published: 2011
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2015/09/15
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> Invaders from the Outer Rim 26035612 Alternate cover for this ASIN can be found here

Every small town has secrets but when Sheriff Olsen begins an investigation of weird events in Santa Maria, he discovers close encounters of the kinkiest kind. INVADERS FROM THE OUTER RIM is a mind-bending tale that explores the unfullfilled desires of the female psyche. Literary critics agree this collaboration between award-winning authors Eric Coyote and Walt Morton is a groundbreaking achievement in erotic science fiction.]]> 52 Eric Coyote John 3
This was a little different than what I was expecting.

I was looking for a light and frisky easy read, and I got it. But not the way I thought. You get to know the characters well enough to care about what's going on, but not so much erotica. Tentacle porn is kinda cheesy to begin with, but if you're gonna write it- why not write it? Aliens visiting bored housewives to fulfill their fantasies is a great idea, and I'd like to read about it. For an erotica novel, the sex scenes were almost an afterthought to the sheriff's investigation and the story ending left you flat- too much was left unanswered and unresolved. The rationale behind the alien presence was funny, but unexplored; would've made for a much funnier and engaging read to see what the aliens were up to.

It's not bad; I just expected more from it.]]> 2.64 2015 Invaders from the Outer Rim
author: Eric Coyote
name: John
average rating: 2.64
book published: 2015
rating: 3
read at: 2015/09/12
date added: 2015/09/14
shelves: erotica, humor, own, porn-with-plot, sci-fi, short-story
review:
***Disclaimer: I received a free copy in exchange for a review.***

This was a little different than what I was expecting.

I was looking for a light and frisky easy read, and I got it. But not the way I thought. You get to know the characters well enough to care about what's going on, but not so much erotica. Tentacle porn is kinda cheesy to begin with, but if you're gonna write it- why not write it? Aliens visiting bored housewives to fulfill their fantasies is a great idea, and I'd like to read about it. For an erotica novel, the sex scenes were almost an afterthought to the sheriff's investigation and the story ending left you flat- too much was left unanswered and unresolved. The rationale behind the alien presence was funny, but unexplored; would've made for a much funnier and engaging read to see what the aliens were up to.

It's not bad; I just expected more from it.
]]> <![CDATA[Sorcerer to the Crown (Sorcerer Royal, #1)]]> 23943137 Magic and mayhem collide with the British elite in this whimsical and sparkling debut.

At his wit’s end, Zacharias Wythe, freed slave, eminently proficient magician, and Sorcerer Royal of the Unnatural Philosophers—one of the most respected organizations throughout all of Britain—ventures to the border of Fairyland to discover why England’s magical stocks are drying up.

But when his adventure brings him in contact with a most unusual comrade, a woman with immense power and an unfathomable gift, he sets on a path which will alter the nature of sorcery in all of Britain—and the world at large…]]> 371 Zen Cho 0425283372 John 0 to-read 3.70 2015 Sorcerer to the Crown (Sorcerer Royal, #1)
author: Zen Cho
name: John
average rating: 3.70
book published: 2015
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2015/09/09
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> <![CDATA[The Ugly Stepsister (Unfinished Fairy Tales, #1)]]> 23162056 452 Aya Ling John 4 3.91 2015 The Ugly Stepsister (Unfinished Fairy Tales, #1)
author: Aya Ling
name: John
average rating: 3.91
book published: 2015
rating: 4
read at:
date added: 2015/09/03
shelves: fantasy, faries, fiction, humor, own, new-release, ya
review:

]]> <![CDATA[A Curious Beginning (Veronica Speedwell, #1)]]> 23160039 London, 1887. As the city prepares to celebrate Queen Victoria's Golden Jubilee, Veronica Speedwell is marking a milestone of her own. After burying her spinster aunt, orphaned Veronica is free to resume her world travels in pursuit of scientific inquiry—and the occasional romantic dalliance. As familiar with hunting butterflies as with fending off admirers, Veronica wields her butterfly net and a sharpened hatpin with equal aplomb, and with her last connection to England gone, she intends to embark upon the journey of a lifetime.

But fate has other plans, as Veronica discovers when she thwarts her own abduction with the help of an enigmatic German baron who has ties to her mysterious past. Promising to reveal in time what he knows of the plot against her, the baron offers her temporary sanctuary in the care of his friend Stoker, a reclusive natural historian as intriguing as he is bad-tempered. But before the baron can deliver on his tantalizing vow to reveal the secrets he has concealed for decades, he is found murdered. Suddenly Veronica and Stoker are forced to go on the run from an elusive assailant as wary partners in search of the villainous truth.]]> 339 Deanna Raybourn John 0 to-read 3.89 2015 A Curious Beginning (Veronica Speedwell, #1)
author: Deanna Raybourn
name: John
average rating: 3.89
book published: 2015
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2015/09/02
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> <![CDATA[When a Scot Ties the Knot (Castles Ever After, #3)]]> 23587120
A Scottish sweetheart. One who was handsome and honorable and devoted to her, but conveniently never around. Maddie poured her heart into writing the imaginary Captain MacKenzie letter after letter . . . and by pretending to be devastated when he was (not really) killed in battle, she managed to avoid the pressures of London society entirely.

Until years later, when this kilted Highland lover of her imaginings shows up in the flesh. The real Captain Logan MacKenzie arrives on her doorstep—handsome as anything, but not entirely honorable. He's wounded, jaded, in possession of her letters . . . and ready to make good on every promise Maddie never expected to keep.]]> 390 Tessa Dare 0062349031 John 0 to-read 3.88 2015 When a Scot Ties the Knot (Castles Ever After, #3)
author: Tessa Dare
name: John
average rating: 3.88
book published: 2015
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2015/08/25
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Dragon Age: The World of Thedas Volume 2]]> 22822933 Newcomers will appreciate how this volume covers everything they need to know about the world and characters of these smash-hit games! Dedicated fans will revel in the abundance of never-before-revealed secrets, the perfect companion to Dragon The World of Thedas Volume 1 ! From heroes to villains, to songs and food, and everything in between, this book puts the breath and depth of this inimitable fantasy at your fingertips.]]> 312 Ben Gelinas 1616555017 John 2
As to the book itself...

1- Legends of Thedas: Chantry leaders such the Divines, Dwarven Paragons, Orlesian nobles, Tevinter mages, Andraste, Maferath, Shartan- it's a historical overview of how modern Thedas came to be. A few things about legendary Wardens- Garahel, Isseya, Corin and Neriah, Sophia Dryden and the Hero- but other than a quick note about the Second Blight there's little on any of the others or the ones who defeated them. There's also a passage on Bregan and Genevieve and the events at Kinloch Hold during the Calling novel which, of course, lead to the Fifth Blight and Awakenings.

2- New Cumberland Chant of Light: all the texts, scrolls and missives regarding the Maker and it's both good to have it all together in one place and very informative.

3- The Hero of Ferelden: This is where it really starts to go south. It mostly focuses upon all the Companions, including Duncan, and is predictably generic and vague regarding the character. Odd, given that the 'official' narrative is that of a female Dalish Elf who made the Ultimate Sacrifice and put Alastair on the throne. There's a subtle acknowledgement of this as Tamlen has a paragraph with details that'd only be known by the Warden.

There's a good deal of fleshing out for many of the party's backstories- Sten's bio was pretty interesting- but it also shows how much waffling and fudging Bioware is still doing. There's a kind of abbreviated passage referring to when he lost his sword, but then it states it's unknown if he died in the fight. Then the next paragraph speaks to the rumors of his becoming the new Arishok! Did they forget something... again?

The story of Cailan and Anora going off together to slay a giant is... odd. The tale of Bryce and Eleanor Cousland balloons into almost comedic proportions. Loghain and Cauthrien's fates are studiously avoided, as is Isolde and Connor's- yet it's definitively stated that Eamon stepped down from Redcliffe after what transpired there.

Another thing is the note regarding Ariane and Finn; canonically they wouldn't have met the Hero, but the Orlesian Commander who replaced her. All this nickle and dimeing over what parts of the story to tell are annoying and ridiculous. What's so hard about simply putting their stamp on an official narrative? Most everyone already knows what the canonical version is, and it'd help out those that don't.

4- Andraste's Bookshelf: The life and legacy of Andraste- via approved sources- along with insights into the various 'interpretations' of Andraste's message and omitting/editing the role of Shartan in the uprising and brief notes on religion and spirtuality in other places, such as the Seers of Rivain, Nevarra and the Tal-Vashoth. There's also notes on lands and areas of Thedas beyond what's well known, including astronomy- thanks to the introduction of the astrariums.

5- The Champion of Kirkwall: More of the same as the Hero's section. Lots of background info on the supporting cast and the city, which is good to know, but gets ridiculous with it's lack of consistency regarding Hawke and the outcome of the Mage/Templar conflict in Kirkwall. A side note on the first page shows this, as it reads: "...details of Hawke's identity, gender and abilities differ depending on who's telling the story."

Really? Even ignoring the utter stupidity of that statement did they forget the Inquisition trailer showing Hawke to be a female mage? Or how the default storyline for DA2 is the Human Noble Male marrying Anora and taking the throne? How's any of that fit with Alastair being king? If you're gonna pull a stunt like this, then why couldn't we get to play Hawke as an elf or a dwarf?

Other than what's absolutely known to happen- Meredith, Red Lyrium, etc- everything's vague and sketchy again. Merrill, Fenris, even Anders, have no resolution to their stories, no true narrative to build from. This stuff really starts to make your head hurt after a while.

6- The Seer's Yarn: Children's tales from all over Thedas, including Seheron. What's not to like?

7- The Inquisitor: Remember what I said about the Hero and Champion sections? I found Iron Bull and Sera interesting, but overall your headache's gonna get worse.

8- The Whole Nug: culinary delights from all over. I actually wondered if I could try a few of these out... with appropriate substitues, of course.

9- Bestiary: what it says.

10- Erratum: remember all the dumb mistakes from the first book? The corrections are here. Thanks.

Second time around, it's still more of the same. Lots of filler on the stuff you already know and very little on what you don't and would like to, and a complete avoidance of anything resembling a canon arc for the main characters. Guess we'll have to wait for the fourth volume to finally learn something about Arlathan and where the Qunari originated from. You'll like it because it exists, not so much for what it contains.]]> 4.59 2015 Dragon Age: The World of Thedas Volume 2
author: Ben Gelinas
name: John
average rating: 4.59
book published: 2015
rating: 2
read at: 2015/05/13
date added: 2015/08/23
shelves: dragon-age, fantasy, game-based, new-release, own
review:
At first glance it seems there's a lot to like here. Layout's the same as last year's book; artwork features those frescoes we've come to know and love. Scenic paintings are lush and vivid; some we've seen already, but still nice to look at and adds atmosphere to the text. You even get a two-page mural of all the personages that helped shaped the Dragon Age, with a listing to help identify who's who, because honestly- some of these folks are unrecognizable. Could've done a much better job on that. The one major complaint I have about the art is for the individual character renderings- they have a cartoonish, almost anime quality to them that was putting me off.

As to the book itself...

1- Legends of Thedas: Chantry leaders such the Divines, Dwarven Paragons, Orlesian nobles, Tevinter mages, Andraste, Maferath, Shartan- it's a historical overview of how modern Thedas came to be. A few things about legendary Wardens- Garahel, Isseya, Corin and Neriah, Sophia Dryden and the Hero- but other than a quick note about the Second Blight there's little on any of the others or the ones who defeated them. There's also a passage on Bregan and Genevieve and the events at Kinloch Hold during the Calling novel which, of course, lead to the Fifth Blight and Awakenings.

2- New Cumberland Chant of Light: all the texts, scrolls and missives regarding the Maker and it's both good to have it all together in one place and very informative.

3- The Hero of Ferelden: This is where it really starts to go south. It mostly focuses upon all the Companions, including Duncan, and is predictably generic and vague regarding the character. Odd, given that the 'official' narrative is that of a female Dalish Elf who made the Ultimate Sacrifice and put Alastair on the throne. There's a subtle acknowledgement of this as Tamlen has a paragraph with details that'd only be known by the Warden.

There's a good deal of fleshing out for many of the party's backstories- Sten's bio was pretty interesting- but it also shows how much waffling and fudging Bioware is still doing. There's a kind of abbreviated passage referring to when he lost his sword, but then it states it's unknown if he died in the fight. Then the next paragraph speaks to the rumors of his becoming the new Arishok! Did they forget something... again?

The story of Cailan and Anora going off together to slay a giant is... odd. The tale of Bryce and Eleanor Cousland balloons into almost comedic proportions. Loghain and Cauthrien's fates are studiously avoided, as is Isolde and Connor's- yet it's definitively stated that Eamon stepped down from Redcliffe after what transpired there.

Another thing is the note regarding Ariane and Finn; canonically they wouldn't have met the Hero, but the Orlesian Commander who replaced her. All this nickle and dimeing over what parts of the story to tell are annoying and ridiculous. What's so hard about simply putting their stamp on an official narrative? Most everyone already knows what the canonical version is, and it'd help out those that don't.

4- Andraste's Bookshelf: The life and legacy of Andraste- via approved sources- along with insights into the various 'interpretations' of Andraste's message and omitting/editing the role of Shartan in the uprising and brief notes on religion and spirtuality in other places, such as the Seers of Rivain, Nevarra and the Tal-Vashoth. There's also notes on lands and areas of Thedas beyond what's well known, including astronomy- thanks to the introduction of the astrariums.

5- The Champion of Kirkwall: More of the same as the Hero's section. Lots of background info on the supporting cast and the city, which is good to know, but gets ridiculous with it's lack of consistency regarding Hawke and the outcome of the Mage/Templar conflict in Kirkwall. A side note on the first page shows this, as it reads: "...details of Hawke's identity, gender and abilities differ depending on who's telling the story."

Really? Even ignoring the utter stupidity of that statement did they forget the Inquisition trailer showing Hawke to be a female mage? Or how the default storyline for DA2 is the Human Noble Male marrying Anora and taking the throne? How's any of that fit with Alastair being king? If you're gonna pull a stunt like this, then why couldn't we get to play Hawke as an elf or a dwarf?

Other than what's absolutely known to happen- Meredith, Red Lyrium, etc- everything's vague and sketchy again. Merrill, Fenris, even Anders, have no resolution to their stories, no true narrative to build from. This stuff really starts to make your head hurt after a while.

6- The Seer's Yarn: Children's tales from all over Thedas, including Seheron. What's not to like?

7- The Inquisitor: Remember what I said about the Hero and Champion sections? I found Iron Bull and Sera interesting, but overall your headache's gonna get worse.

8- The Whole Nug: culinary delights from all over. I actually wondered if I could try a few of these out... with appropriate substitues, of course.

9- Bestiary: what it says.

10- Erratum: remember all the dumb mistakes from the first book? The corrections are here. Thanks.

Second time around, it's still more of the same. Lots of filler on the stuff you already know and very little on what you don't and would like to, and a complete avoidance of anything resembling a canon arc for the main characters. Guess we'll have to wait for the fourth volume to finally learn something about Arlathan and where the Qunari originated from. You'll like it because it exists, not so much for what it contains.
]]> Gristle & Bone: Stories 23126847 Gristle & Bone 7 Delectable Tales of Terror

A young couple discovers the secret of a tourist town's prosperity may lie in its sinfully delicious cuisine. Gonzo pornographers learn a brutal lesson following a tragedy they caused when life imitated "art." Disgraced soldier Dean Vogel returns to his hometown and confronts the bullies, and a traumatic event, from his past. A reporter uncovers what really happened to the latest internet sensation, a troubled girl who disappeared on camera. When successful restaurant owners Jim and Leanne Taymor confess to a grisly series of small town murders, their neighbor learns the gruesome truth that led them to kill.

Gristle & Bone includes the novella, Scavengers, plus 4 novelettes, and 2 short stories.

Cannibalism, monsters, vengeful spirits, the apocalypse--chock-full of blood, mayhem, psychological horror, and good old fashioned gross-outs, Gristle & Bone is a tasty treat for horror fans!]]> 316 Duncan Ralston 1499776764 John 4
Gristle & Bone is a collection of horror/supernatural short stories by Duncan Ralston. I haven’t read as much in the genre as I’d like so I was eager to dive into this one. And I was glad I did; this one kept me reading for quite a while. While some of the plots aren’t new, the twists they take are what keep you going.

Baby Teeth: Candace and Joel are having trouble conceiving a child, which affects their marriage. One day Candace begins hearing strange noises around the house- including the patter of little feet.

Beware of the Dog: Dean is dishonorably discharged from the Army and returns to his hometown for both some mandated psychiatric evaluation and closure from a traumatic incident in his childhood that affected not only himself, but one other person. The key to it all may lie in the hands of someone else.

Viral: Tara is a journalist working on a story of a girl who went missing, literally right in front of everyone while recording a video on her computer. Tara feels a kinship to the girl, but their connection ends up being more than she ever expected.

Artifact (#37): Ian & Kevin, along with some friends, run a booming reality porn business involving picking up ‘girls� on the street and ‘teaching them a lesson�. It’s all part of the act, all fun and games, until one woman gets raped and brutally murdered by a serial killer. Although innocent of any involvement the event still haunts them, and sometimes the past has a way of coming back full circle.

//End User: Mason- conspiracy theorist and office drone- suddenly starts receiving strange emails on his computer, emails which seem to come from himself. Not only are they eerily prescient they also know all his secrets and inner demons. Who’s sending him all these strange emails? The answer lies in right in front of him.

Fat of the Land: David & June travel abroad to attend the gay wedding of two friends. While staying at high end hotel they’re directed to Ambrosia- an exclusive, invitation-only restaurant that specializes in exotic cuisine. The ambience and food are amazing, but what’s the secret of their success?

Scavengers: Jim & Leanne own a small town restaurant, and have a problem with scavengers rifling through the dumpsters every night. Jim witnesses something� strange� literally crawling down the wall to get to the trash. Realizing the danger is bigger than he suspected, Jim & Leanne need to find a way to kill these creatures before it’s too late.

The main thing about Ralston’s writing is that he’s great with narrative fiction; he gets you invested in the characters so you’ll care about what happens to them- a key element in horror stories, especially shorts like these. Only thing is he spends too much time on them, which leaves little room for a resolution or definitive ending which left some stories feeling incomplete. There’s subplots and layers woven into the stories, which are good, but end up taking away from the story. A couple of these end with having more problems and leaving more questions than they solved and answered, which was unsatisfying.

Gristle & Bone is a very entertaining, clever, imaginative, well crafted collection of horror and supernatural tales that’ll definitely keep you reading. Duncan Ralston is a fine writer, and one you should make room for on your shelf.
]]> 4.41 2013 Gristle & Bone: Stories
author: Duncan Ralston
name: John
average rating: 4.41
book published: 2013
rating: 4
read at: 2015/08/17
date added: 2015/08/18
shelves: anthology, horror, own, short-story, supernatural
review:
***Disclaimer: I received a free copy in exchange for a review.***

Gristle & Bone is a collection of horror/supernatural short stories by Duncan Ralston. I haven’t read as much in the genre as I’d like so I was eager to dive into this one. And I was glad I did; this one kept me reading for quite a while. While some of the plots aren’t new, the twists they take are what keep you going.

Baby Teeth: Candace and Joel are having trouble conceiving a child, which affects their marriage. One day Candace begins hearing strange noises around the house- including the patter of little feet.

Beware of the Dog: Dean is dishonorably discharged from the Army and returns to his hometown for both some mandated psychiatric evaluation and closure from a traumatic incident in his childhood that affected not only himself, but one other person. The key to it all may lie in the hands of someone else.

Viral: Tara is a journalist working on a story of a girl who went missing, literally right in front of everyone while recording a video on her computer. Tara feels a kinship to the girl, but their connection ends up being more than she ever expected.

Artifact (#37): Ian & Kevin, along with some friends, run a booming reality porn business involving picking up ‘girls� on the street and ‘teaching them a lesson�. It’s all part of the act, all fun and games, until one woman gets raped and brutally murdered by a serial killer. Although innocent of any involvement the event still haunts them, and sometimes the past has a way of coming back full circle.

//End User: Mason- conspiracy theorist and office drone- suddenly starts receiving strange emails on his computer, emails which seem to come from himself. Not only are they eerily prescient they also know all his secrets and inner demons. Who’s sending him all these strange emails? The answer lies in right in front of him.

Fat of the Land: David & June travel abroad to attend the gay wedding of two friends. While staying at high end hotel they’re directed to Ambrosia- an exclusive, invitation-only restaurant that specializes in exotic cuisine. The ambience and food are amazing, but what’s the secret of their success?

Scavengers: Jim & Leanne own a small town restaurant, and have a problem with scavengers rifling through the dumpsters every night. Jim witnesses something� strange� literally crawling down the wall to get to the trash. Realizing the danger is bigger than he suspected, Jim & Leanne need to find a way to kill these creatures before it’s too late.

The main thing about Ralston’s writing is that he’s great with narrative fiction; he gets you invested in the characters so you’ll care about what happens to them- a key element in horror stories, especially shorts like these. Only thing is he spends too much time on them, which leaves little room for a resolution or definitive ending which left some stories feeling incomplete. There’s subplots and layers woven into the stories, which are good, but end up taking away from the story. A couple of these end with having more problems and leaving more questions than they solved and answered, which was unsatisfying.

Gristle & Bone is a very entertaining, clever, imaginative, well crafted collection of horror and supernatural tales that’ll definitely keep you reading. Duncan Ralston is a fine writer, and one you should make room for on your shelf.

]]> <![CDATA[Mr. Penumbra's 24-Hour Bookstore (Mr. Penumbra's 24-Hour Bookstore, #1)]]> 13538873
Clay Jannon tells how serendipity, sheer curiosity, and the ability to climb a ladder like a monkey has sent him from Web Drone to night shift at Mr. Penumbra’s 24-Hour Bookstore. After just a few days on the job, Clay realizes just how curious this store is.

A few customers come in repeatedly without buying anything. Instead they “check out� obscure volumes from strange corners of the store. All runs according to some elaborate, long-standing arrangement with the gnomic Mr. Penumbra. The store must be a front for something larger, Clay concludes.

He embarks on a complex analysis of the customers� behavior and ropes in friends to help. Once they bring their findings to Mr. Penumbra, it turns out the secrets extend far outside the walls of the bookstore. A quest to New York City dips in a world conspiracy for eternal life. The current of romance pulls Clay onward.]]> 288 Robin Sloan 0374214913 John 0 to-read 3.71 2012 Mr. Penumbra's 24-Hour Bookstore (Mr. Penumbra's 24-Hour Bookstore, #1)
author: Robin Sloan
name: John
average rating: 3.71
book published: 2012
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2015/08/16
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Confessions of a Caffeine Addict]]> 9801984 Book by 252 Marina Kushner 0974758264 John 1 3.45 2010 Confessions of a Caffeine Addict
author: Marina Kushner
name: John
average rating: 3.45
book published: 2010
rating: 1
read at:
date added: 2015/08/12
shelves:
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Open Wide: The 4d's - Divorce, Dating, Dentistry & Dildos]]> 24109102 198 Heidi DuBois John 0 currently-reading 4.71 2014 Open Wide: The 4d's - Divorce, Dating, Dentistry & Dildos
author: Heidi DuBois
name: John
average rating: 4.71
book published: 2014
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2015/08/06
shelves: currently-reading
review:

]]> The Brevity of Twit 25682425
A witty walk through the minefield of tweeting, twitter, and the many uses we have socially for it. Take a trip through trending topics, get stuck in writerhell, and marvel at the ability to make jokes out of current events. From serious poetry to a scandalous take on improper grammar, this fast paced take on the brevity of chatting in 140 characters or less will have you falling in love with tweeting all over again. Geeky, writerly, fun for everyone. If you take your humor with insight, self-deprecation, pithiness, and more than a little geekdom, this might be just the lift for you.


Order The Brevity of Twit on Amazon:

Find The Brevity of Twit in ALL formats: ]]> 50 K.D. Rose John 3
Wasn't too sure what to expect from this one. It's a mixed bag of observational humor, random thoughts, lots of poetry and hashtag riffing- all straight from the Twitter experience of the author- all in 140 characters or less. The poetry, however, evolves into long form and engages you, and it even strays into haikus a couple of times. This one's a quick, fun and enjoyable read you can get through on your ride to work/home. I especially liked the parts on #writerhell and #Lessinterestingbooks- very witty and snarky. You'll like it, too. 3.5/5 Stars.]]> 3.89 2015 The Brevity of Twit
author: K.D. Rose
name: John
average rating: 3.89
book published: 2015
rating: 3
read at: 2015/08/05
date added: 2015/08/04
shelves: new-release, own, humor, poetry, non-fiction, social-media
review:
***Disclaimer: I received a free copy in exchange for a review.***

Wasn't too sure what to expect from this one. It's a mixed bag of observational humor, random thoughts, lots of poetry and hashtag riffing- all straight from the Twitter experience of the author- all in 140 characters or less. The poetry, however, evolves into long form and engages you, and it even strays into haikus a couple of times. This one's a quick, fun and enjoyable read you can get through on your ride to work/home. I especially liked the parts on #writerhell and #Lessinterestingbooks- very witty and snarky. You'll like it, too. 3.5/5 Stars.
]]> The Sweetest Dare 25599843
Kit Cheever is more than eager to welcome her new co-worker, Sidney Campbell, to Tish’s Riches, the best chocolate shop in Virginia. While the long days on the job hardly exhaust them for long nights of play, Sidney hopes for more in their relationship than candy-coated orgasms. Is dinner out too much to ask?

Kit would oblige, but she likes her privacy. The people of Dareville don’t need to know she and Sidney are anything more than co-workers. Why be “out� when it’s so much hotter and safer indoors?

Kit won’t even hold her hand in public, which upsets Sidney. She’s not asking Kit to march in a parade, just to acknowledge her feelings to the people she loves. What will it take to get Kit out of the closet and into Sidney’s heart?
]]> 84 Leigh Ellwood 1936387980 John 3
This was a quick, light read with some humor and spicy, sexy moments tossed in. It felt a little off with Kit seemingly being more experienced, at least with having been practicing longer, yet Sid always took the lead- sexual or otherwise- whenever they were together. Kit's constant angst at being 'out' seemed odd with everyone in the town knowing everyone's business; if you're always frequenting the only lesbian bar in town, someone's gonna notice sooner or later- which is exactly what happens. The budding relationship between Kat and Sid was nice despite the sudden bloom into instalove in order to have a happy ending, but it won't detract from your enjoyment.]]> 3.83 2015 The Sweetest Dare
author: Leigh Ellwood
name: John
average rating: 3.83
book published: 2015
rating: 3
read at: 2015/07/07
date added: 2015/07/07
shelves: erotica, fiction, lesbian, lesbian-romance, own
review:
***Disclaimer: I received a free copy in exchange for a review.***

This was a quick, light read with some humor and spicy, sexy moments tossed in. It felt a little off with Kit seemingly being more experienced, at least with having been practicing longer, yet Sid always took the lead- sexual or otherwise- whenever they were together. Kit's constant angst at being 'out' seemed odd with everyone in the town knowing everyone's business; if you're always frequenting the only lesbian bar in town, someone's gonna notice sooner or later- which is exactly what happens. The budding relationship between Kat and Sid was nice despite the sudden bloom into instalove in order to have a happy ending, but it won't detract from your enjoyment.
]]> Soundless 24751478 In a village without sound�

For as long as Fei can remember, no one in her village has been able to hear. Rocky terrain and frequent avalanches make it impossible to leave the village, so Fei and her people are at the mercy of a zipline that carries food up the treacherous cliffs from Beiguo, a mysterious faraway kingdom.

When villagers begin to lose their sight, deliveries from the zipline shrink. Many go hungry. Fei and all the people she loves are plunged into crisis, with nothing to look forward to but darkness and starvation.

One girl hears a call to action�

Until one night, Fei is awoken by a searing noise. Sound becomes her weapon.

She sets out to uncover what’s happened to her and to fight the dangers threatening her village. A handsome miner with a revolutionary spirit accompanies Fei on her quest, bringing with him new risks and the possibility of romance. They embark on a majestic journey from the peak of their jagged mountain village to the valley of Beiguo, where a startling truth will change their lives forever�

And unlocks a power that will save her people.]]> 267 Richelle Mead 1595147632 John 0 to-read 3.38 2015 Soundless
author: Richelle Mead
name: John
average rating: 3.38
book published: 2015
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2015/06/24
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Holiday Spirit for Hire (Otherworld Realms, #2)]]> 23446823 Justin Kringle is the nephew of Santa Claus and his job is to keep operations of the Pole on point. When Grace is dropped bed and all into his work shop, he can’t decide if it’s love or hate at first sight. First impression: she’s a total mess. Can he keep her on track and remember to not mix business and pleasure?]]> 208 Isabelle Saint-Michael John 0 to-read 4.55 2014 Holiday Spirit for Hire (Otherworld Realms, #2)
author: Isabelle Saint-Michael
name: John
average rating: 4.55
book published: 2014
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2015/06/18
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Practical Uses for Princes With Pointed Ears (Otherworld Realms #1)]]> 23446082
Tallyn had been the protector of his kingdom for over one hundred years. He knows that the world is filled with danger around every corner, but these days he’s finding himself babysitting the annoyingly fearless Lady Lillian.

When their worlds collide sparks fly, humorous situations ensue and the only thing for sure is that neither will ever be the same. Practical Uses for Princes with Pointed Ears takes readers on an adventure into a modern fairytale where we explore what it really means to fall for Prince Not-so-Charming.
]]> 378 Isabelle Saint-Michael 0990866513 John 0 to-read 4.04 2014 Practical Uses for Princes With Pointed Ears (Otherworld Realms #1)
author: Isabelle Saint-Michael
name: John
average rating: 4.04
book published: 2014
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2015/06/18
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> <![CDATA[The Witch Hunter (The Witch Hunter, #1)]]> 18190208 The magic and suspense of Graceling meet the political intrigue and unrest of Game of Thrones in this riveting fantasy debut.

Your greatest enemy isn't what you fight, but what you fear.

Elizabeth Grey is one of the king's best witch hunters, devoted to rooting out witchcraft and doling out justice. But when she's accused of being a witch herself, Elizabeth is arrested and sentenced to burn at the stake.

Salvation comes from a man she thought was her enemy. Nicholas Perevil, the most powerful and dangerous wizard in the kingdom, offers her a deal: he will save her from execution if she can break the deadly curse that's been laid upon him.

But Nicholas and his followers know nothing of Elizabeth's witch hunting past--if they find out, the stake will be the least of her worries. And as she's thrust into the magical world of witches, ghosts, pirates, and one all-too-handsome healer, Elizabeth is forced to redefine her ideas of right and wrong, of friends and enemies, and of love and hate.

Virginia Boecker weaves a riveting tale of magic, betrayal, and sacrifice in this unforgettable fantasy debut.]]> 362 Virginia Boecker 031632700X John 1 to-read 3.79 2015 The Witch Hunter (The Witch Hunter, #1)
author: Virginia Boecker
name: John
average rating: 3.79
book published: 2015
rating: 1
read at:
date added: 2015/06/14
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> <![CDATA[The Boy and the Peddler of Death (The Tale of Onora #1)]]> 22630778
At the core of this tale is a love story that spans a lifetime, wrapped in a gritty, epic, real man's fantasy that anyone can sink his or her teeth into. It is a beacon of truth in an enslaved world suffering from moral relativism and willful ignorance in the presence of Knowledge.

For the mature fans of Harry Potter, A Game of Thrones, Lord of the Rings, Elder Scrolls, Legend of Zelda, Guild Wars, World of Warcraft, Fable, and Dragon Age, The Tale of Onora follows the journey of a young orphan after his village is destroyed and he is forced to grow up in a dangerous world. As he navigates through different walks of life, he begins to uncover a conspiracy as to why his village was destroyed. Before he can put the pieces together, his fate is sealed by a terrible war. In the storm of chaos that follows, his actions turn him into a legendary hero. The more renowned he gets, the closer the source of evil is drawn to him. The more he fights for the truth, the more of an outlaw he becomes. In Book One, a boy at the brink of adulthood travels beyond the ruins of an ancient elven city, to The Crown of The World in the far north. It is there where he meets his father for the first time, in search of the answers and reasons his mother refuses to discuss. At the risk of his life, he learns that finding the truth requires knowing The Tale of Onora.]]> 107 Dylan Saccoccio 1500282847 John 1 1.31 2014 The Boy and the Peddler of Death (The Tale of Onora #1)
author: Dylan Saccoccio
name: John
average rating: 1.31
book published: 2014
rating: 1
read at:
date added: 2015/06/06
shelves:
review:

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