A Book Obsession..

Early Review: Wicked Hour by Chloe Neill

2019-11-27T07:00:00.000-05:00

Wicked Hour by Chloe Neill

Heirs of Chicagoland #2

In the second pulse-pounding novel in the USA Today bestselling Heirs of Chicagoland series, vampire Elisa Sullivan gets drawn into the shifting sands of Pack politics.

Vampires were made, not born—until Elisa Sullivan came along. As the only vampire child in existence, she grew up with a heavy legacy, and tried to flee her past. Then circumstances drew her back to Chicago, and she stayed to keep it safe. With shifter Connor Keene, the only son of Pack Apex Gabriel Keene, at her side, she faced down a supernatural evil that threatened to destroy Chicago forever.

After the dust from the attack has settled, Elisa is surprised when Connor invites her to a usually private Pack event in the north woods of Minnesota, and by the warm welcome she receives from some of Connor’s family, even though she’s a vampire. But the peace doesn’t last. The shifters tell tales of a monster in the woods, and when the celebration is marred by death, Elisa and Connor find themselves in the middle of a struggle for control that forces Elisa to face her true self—fangs and all.

I enjoyed WICKED HOUR, and returning the characters and world that I love. The tension between Elisa and Connor was as delicious as ever. Admittedly I was a little bit frustrated with the slow burn pacing between them, but they do say good things come to those who wait. There's something about the pair of them that just says the end result will be absolute fireworks, and I can't wait to see it.

However, as great as the characters, and overall world were, I felt the pacing of this book slumped a bit. Don't get me wrong, a good bit happens in this book, but it just didn't feel to have quite the intensity or stakes I've come to expect from this world. The plotline almost meanders, and didn't really feel to provide any momentum to an overarching world plot. It was an enjoyable read, but almost felt like a side story at times, while waiting to get back to the main action. This may be unfair as perhaps it's too early in the series for an overarching plot other than the romance, but it still felt like something was almost missing. I look forward to seeing what the next book brings.

All in all, while not quite the book I was hoping for. WICKED HOUR is an enjoyable foray back into the Chicagoland world.

(Received a copy from the publisher)

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a GREAT read

Previous Books:
1. Wild Hunger

Review: Immortal Born by Lynsay Sands

2019-10-02T07:00:00.000-04:00

Immortal Born by Lynsay Sands

Argeneau #30

A simple promise to protect her friend’s infant son has turned Allie Chambers’ existence upside down. Caring for—and feeding—an orphaned vampire baby has been tricky enough. But as little Liam grows, so does his appetite. He needs more blood than she can personally supply. And when her attempts to steal from a blood bank go awry, Allie wakes up surrounded by doctors, cops…and the gorgeous, mesmerizing Magnus, who she can neither trust nor resist.

Magnus never expected to find his life mate breaking into a blood bank. Clearly, Allie is already entwined with his world—in deeper, more dangerous ways than she realizes. A band of vicious rogue immortals is in pursuit, and Magnus’ first task is to keep her safe. His second: to awaken her to mind-blowing pleasure, and hope she’ll accept the life, and the passion, that only he can offer.

It truly is amazing that we are 30 books in and this series is still going strong as ever! Each one is a fun, fated-mate trope filled romp, that's a nice escape for a few hours. Magnus and Allie made for a delightful couple, and I thoroughly enjoyed their progression together. A lot of this series feels a bit formulaic and yet, it works perfectly, never once getting dull. With these books, you know exactly what you are getting, and it's fun to see each new couple's twist on things. IMMORTAL BORN returns to a favorite setting from previous books as well as some much loved characters making a return. A long running plotline comes front and center as well with a satisfying resolution, making for a well rounded read.

All in all, IMMORTAL BORN was another delightfully fun romp in this long running series that I greatly enjoyed. Here's to hopefully many more Argeneaus!

(Received a copy from the publisher)

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Books & Chat
Fangs, Wands, & Fairy Dust

Previous Books:
1. A Quick Bite
2. Love Bites
3. Single White Vampire
4. Tall, Dark, & Hungry
5. A Bite to Remember
6. Bite Me If You Can
7. The Accidental Vampire
8. Vampires Are Forever
9. Vampire, Interrupted
10. The Rouge Hunter
11. The Immortal Hunter
12. The Renegade Hunter
13. Born to Bite
14. Hungry for You
15. The Reluctant Vampire
16. Under a Vampire Moon
17. The Lady is a Vamp
18. Immortal Ever After
19. One Lucky Vampire
20. Vampire Most Wanted
21. The Immortal Who Loved Me
22. About a Vampire
23. Runaway Vampire
24. Immortal Nights
25. Immortal Unchained
26. Immortally Yours
27. Twice Bitten
28. Vampires Like it Hot
29. The Trouble with Vampires

Early Review: Archangel's War by Nalini Singh

2019-09-11T07:00:00.000-04:00

Archangel's War by Nalini Singh

Guild Hunter #12

Wings of silver. Wings of blue. Mortal heart. Broken dreams. Shatter. Shatter. Shatter. A sundering. A grave. I see the end. I see. . .

The world is in chaos as the power surge of the Cascade rises to a devastating crescendo. In furiously resisting its attempts to turn Elena into a vessel for Raphael’s power, Elena and her archangel are irrevocably changed. . .far beyond the prophecy of a cursed Ancient.

At the same time, violent and eerie events around the world threaten to wipe out entire populations. And in the Archangel Lijuan’s former territory, an unnatural fog weaves through the land, leaving only a bone-chilling silence in its wake. Soon it becomes clear that even the archangels are not immune to this deadly evil. This time, even the combined power of the Cadre may not be enough. . .

This war could end them all.

After the insane ending of the previous book, to say I couldn’t wait for ARCHANGEL’S WAR is an understatement. I actually was a bit miffed at Nalini Singh for the torturous ending, but this book made up for it and then some. It’s a longer read, and every single page was jammed packed, the action, and the stakes never left up, not even for a moment. All of the previous cascade events pale in comparison, and I was on the edge of my seat the entire time. I made the mistake of starting this book later in the evening, and couldn’t put it down. There was no sleep to be had that night, but the next day exhaustion was more than worth it. It’s simply that good. All of the favorite main characters play an important role in this book, and things come to a head. I can’t really say much more for fear of spoiling, just trust me when I say this book was simply amazing!

Guild Hunter fans, RUN do not walk to your nearest bookstore and grab this one as soon as you can. A penultimate read of epicness, ARCHANGEL’S WAR was the best in the series yet. I can only imagine where things will go next. Bravo Ms Nalini, bravo!

(Received a copy from the publisher)

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Previous Books:
1. Angels' Blood
2. Archangel's Kiss
3. Archangel's Consort
4. Archangel's Blade
5. Archangel's Storm

6. Archangel's Legion

7. Archangel's Shadows

8. Archangel's Enigma

9. Archangel's Heart

10. Archangel's Viper

11. Archangel's Prophecy

Early Review: Sapphire Flames by Ilona Andrews

2019-08-14T07:00:00.000-04:00

Sapphire Flames by Ilona Andrews

Hidden Legacy #4

From #1 New York Times bestselling author Ilona Andrews comes an enthralling new trilogy set in the Hidden Legacy world, where magic means power, and family bloodlines are the new currency of society…

In a world where magic is the key to power and wealth, Catalina Baylor is a Prime, the highest rank of magic user, and the Head of her House. Catalina has always been afraid to use her unique powers, but when her friend’s mother and sister are murdered, Catalina risks her reputation and safety to unravel the mystery.

But behind the scenes powerful forces are at work, and one of them is Alessandro Sagredo, the Italian Prime who was once Catalina’s teenage crush. Dangerous and unpredictable, Alessandro’s true motives are unclear, but he’s drawn to Catalina like a moth to a flame.

To help her friend, Catalina must test the limits of her extraordinary powers, but doing so may cost her both her House–and her heart.

To say I was excited to read Catalina’s first full length novel would be a gross understatement. I utterly love anything Ilona Andrews writes, and each new book goes on my favorites shelf without a hesitation. SAPPHIRE FLAMES was no exception. We had a little taste of Catalina in the novella, Diamond Fire, but it only whet my appetite for more. While reading this book felt like coming home to a beloved series, Catalina is a very different character than Nevada. While they both have an iron will, Catalina is much more reserved and cautious than her older sister. Being in charge and responsible for her house doesn’t come naturally for her, but she’s finding her way, and I really enjoyed getting to see her grow.

The romance this time around was oh so very fun and delicious. Alessandro seems like the perfect match for Catalina, not that she’ll make it even remotely easy for him. The attraction between the two is off the charts, and the buildup is perfect. However he’s very mysterious and cagey at times, and Catalina has a lot of trust issues due to her ability to ensnare without even trying. Things didn’t move too quickly so I feel like their relationship only gave us a taste of what’s to come, and I can’t wait.

If you haven’t read the Hidden Legacy series, well what are you waiting for? Nevada’s trilogy was fantastic, and Catalina’s is off to an amazing start. I cannot recommend this series any higher! I’ll be counting down the days until the next book, and it can’t come quick enough. Yet another fantastic read from Ilona Andrews, SAPPHIRE FLAMES is not to be missed.

(Received a copy from the publisher)

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Other Reviews:
Slapdash & Sundry
A Reader of Fictions

Previous Books:
1. Burn for Me
2. White Hot
3. Wildfire
3.5. Diamond Fire

Review: The Beyond by Chloe Neill

2019-07-24T07:00:00.000-04:00

The Beyond by Chloe Neill

Devil's Isle #4

Sensitive Claire Connolly must journey to another world in the electrifying fourth installment of Chloe Neill’s post-apocalyptic urban fantasy series.

It’s been a year since the Veil between the human world and the world Beyond was torn apart, and war began again. Sensitive Claire Connolly and bounty hunter Liam Quinn have been helping their human and paranormal allies fight back against the ravaging invaders and save what’s left of New Orleans.

But a new enemy has arisen, more powerful than any they’ve seen before, and even Devil’s Isle cannot hold her. . .

When Claire learns of a new magical weapon–one built by paranormals themselves -she knows it could turn the tide of war. But to reach it, she and Liam will have to cross into the Beyond itself. In a world full of hostile magic and dangerous foes, she’ll have to channel the powers she once kept hidden in order to survive. New Orleans hangs in the balance, and the storm is growing closer . . .

In THE BEYOND, things really come to a head, and it was one heck of a thrill ride. Everything in the Devil’s Isles series has been building up to this point for the ultimate battle. The stakes were incredibly high, and I enjoyed every moment. Crossing over the Veil added a new dimension to the world, and it was fascinating to see how their world was. Both Claire and I *almost* felt sorry for the paras that left there to escape, almost. But the amount of destruction they caused Earthside is inexcusable and she wasn’t afraid to sock it to them.

In the romance department, things are much better than in previous installments. I had expressed a good bit of frustration in my reviews of the prior books. But this time around things felt much more on track and less wishy-washy. Don’t get me wrong, things weren’t smooth sailing or roses for the pair, but the romance felt much more substantial this go around, which I very much appreciated.

All in all, THE BEYOND was a good finish to the Devil’s Isle series that I greatly enjoyed. Fans of the series will be pleased with this conclusion.

(Received a copy from the publisher)

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Other Reviews:
Between Dreams and Reality
Gizmo's Reviews
a GREAT read

Previous Books:
1. The Veil
2. The Sight
3. The Hunt

Early Review: Wolf Rain by Nalini Singh

2019-05-22T07:00:00.000-04:00

Wolf Rain by Nalini Singh

Psy-Changeling Trinity #3

New York Times bestselling author Nalini Singh takes us on a new adventure in this next novel of the Psy-Changeling Trinity series…

The end of Silence was supposed to create a better world for future generations. But trust is broken, and the alliance between Psy, Changeling, and human is thin. The problems that led to Silence are back in full force. Because Silence fixed nothing, just hid the problems.

This time, the Psy have to find a real answer to their problems–if one exists. Or their race will soon go extinct in a cascade of violence. The answer begins with an empath who is attuned to monsters–and who is going to charm a wolf into loving her despite his own demons.

Some stories in the Psy-Changeling world are very insular, but in a good way, focusing heavily on the romance and the world events take a back seat. Then other stories are very worldly with the couple's romance playing a large part, but the overall series arch really taking the reins. WOLF RAIN was the latter. Memory and Alexei are a fantastic pair, and their banter is very enjoyable. Memory in particular has a feisty, iron will and doesn't let Alexei do anything but toe the line, and it's rather hilarious. They of course have the majority of the page time in this book and I really enjoyed seeing their relationship progress. However, the overall series momentum and plot additions stole the show this time around. It really is amazing just how much depth can be continually added to this world even though we are so very many books into the series. Bravo, simply bravo.

Hands down, Nalini Singh is an incredible talent in the genre and the ever growing Psy-Changeling world never ceases to amaze me. Fans of the series will be delighted with this new installment! I enjoyed this book so much it inspired a re-read of the entire series. A serious delight!

(Received a copy from the publisher)

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Other Reviews:
The Alliterates
Unstuck Pages

Previous Books:
1. Silver Silence
2. Ocean Light

Review: Wild Country by Anne Bishop

2019-05-08T07:00:00.000-04:00

Wild Country by Anne Bishop

The Others #7

In this powerful and exciting fantasy set in the world of the New York Times bestselling Others series, humans and the shape-shifting Others will see whether they can live side by side...without destroying one another.

There are ghost towns in the world—places where the humans were annihilated in retaliation for the slaughter of the shape-shifting Others.

One of those places is Bennett, a town at the northern end of the Elder Hills—a town surrounded by the wild country. Now efforts are being made to resettle Bennett as a community where humans and Others live and work together. A young female police officer has been hired as the deputy to a Wolfgard sheriff. A deadly type of Other wants to run a human-style saloon. And a couple with four foster children—one of whom is a blood prophet—hope to find acceptance.

But as they reopen the stores and the professional offices and start to make lives for themselves, the town of Bennett attracts the attention of other humans looking for profit. And the arrival of the Blackstone Clan, outlaws and gamblers all, will uncover secrets…or bury them.

I always enjoy returning to The Others world, and WILD COUNTRY was no exception. I especially enjoyed this look into a different town with new characters, but a few returning favorites, and that the timeline ran parallel to Meg's last book. Seeing things from a different perspective is always interesting. It added an extra element to getting to know all of the new characters. I particularly loved the dynamic between Jana and Virgil, and their little Wolfguard pack. Seeing Virgil the alpha Wolfguard trying to figure out how to navigate and deal with a female human member of his police pack was nothing short of hilarious. It definitely added the perfect amount of levity to tense situations in this plot.

It is fascinating just how incredibly stupid some people are in this world. The Others have proven time and time again they are top of the food chain, and yet so many idiots think they can run the show. While sometimes this series at a first glance may seem formulaic with new idiots trying to take things over each book, each new set of "idiots" brought an entirely new element to the series. I have to say the villains of this book may just take the cake in the stupidity, greediness, and absolute arrogance department. The world surely doesn't suffer fools. It was like a train wreck I could see coming a mile away, but I enjoyed every minute of seeing it unfurl.

Anne Bishop has done it once again, and WILD COUNTRY is another fantastic installment in The Others series that is not to be missed!

(Received a copy from the publisher)

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All Things Urban Fantasy
Between Dreams and Reality
a GREAT read

Previous Books:
1. Written in Red
2. Murder of Crows
3. Vision in Silver
4. Marked in Flesh
5. Etched in Bone
6. Lake Silence

Early Review: Storm Cursed by Patricia Briggs

2019-05-01T07:00:00.000-04:00

Storm Cursed by Patricia Briggs

Mercy Thompson #11

In this new installment in the No. 1 New York Times bestselling series, Mercy Thompson must face a deadly enemy to defend all she loves . . .

My name is Mercedes Athena Thompson Hauptman, and I am a car mechanic.

And a coyote shapeshifter . . . And the mate of the Alpha of the Columbia Basin werewolf pack.

Even so, none of that would have gotten me into trouble if, a few months ago, I hadn't stood upon a bridge and taken responsibility for the safety of the citizens who lived in our territory. It seemed like the thing to do at the time. It should have only involved hunting down killer goblins, zombie goats, and an occasional troll. Instead, our home was viewed as neutral ground, a place where humans would feel safe to come and treat with the fae.

The reality is that nothing and no one is safe. As generals and politicians face off with the Gray Lords of the fae, a storm is coming and her name is Death.

But we are pack, and we have given our word. We will die to keep it.

I absolutely love Mercy and the entire series. Each new installment is like coming home to old friends, and STORM CURSED was no exception. Mercy has such an entertaining knack for getting herself both in and out of trouble, which is a delight to read. This time around she's found herself tangled up with the blackest of witches. And if that weren't enough there's things afoot with the government trying to control the pack. Plus all the continued repercussions from Mercy's declaration that the tri-cities were her territory and you have a whole lot going on in Mercy-land. As always she handles things with her normal wit and perseverance, and it made for one heck of an enjoyable read.

There were a whole lot of moving parts in STORM CURSED with so many different factions and issues Mercy and co were facing. It really made for and interesting read, and it felt great to return back to the tri-cities after the overseas hijinks from the previous book. As they say there's no place like home, and there's nothing like a Mercy book. Fans of the series will really enjoy this installment for all the action, comedy, familiar faces, and typically Mercy fun. Definitely a great read!

(Received a copy from the publisher)

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Other Reviews:
Gizmo's Reviews
Mrs Leif's Two Fangs About It
The Bibliosanctum

Previous Books:
1. Moon Called
2. Blood Bound
3. Iron Kissed
4. Bone Crossed
5. Silver Borne
6. River Marked
7. Frost Burned
8. Night Broken
9. Fire Touched
10. Silence Fallen

Early Review: American Witch by Thea Harrison

2019-04-24T07:00:00.000-04:00

American Witch by Thea Harrison

American Witch #1 (Elder Races)

Power can change a person…

For months Molly Sullivan endures the inexplicable: electrical surges, car breakdowns, visions. She even wonders if she might be the cause… and wonders if she might be crazy. Then she discovers her husband has cheated on her. Again. Now Molly realizes she is a newly awakening witch and a woman pushed over the edge.

Revenge can shape a person…

Josiah Mason is a Powerful witch and the leader of a secret coven with a shared goal: to destroy an ancient enemy who has ruined many lives. Josiah lost years to this man, and his sole focus is revenge. He’s prepared for every contingency—except encountering a beautiful new witch who understands nothing of the immense Power building within her or the attraction she wields over him.

Danger can bring them together…

When divorcing her husband, Molly uncovers a dangerous secret he’s willing to kill to protect. She turns to Josiah for help, and they discover a connection between Molly’s husband and Josiah’s enemy.

As they work together, a spark ignites between them that threatens to become an inferno. But Molly is done compromising herself for any man, and Josiah’s mission is his top priority. And the enemy is cunning, cruel, and drawing ever closer.

As the danger escalates, so does the tension between them. Is a lasting relationship possible? Will either of them live long enough to try?

I truly love the Elder Races world, and it's such a treat to meet a new couple and dive into this expansive world even further. This time around things had a different feel as the heroine didn't know about her abilities until her soon to be ex-husband's cheating pushed her over the proverbial edge. And boy did the sparks fly. Molly is an intriguing woman, both vulnerable and emotional, and yet also has a core of steel. It felt like a bit like of a coming of age story, but instead of a teenager, Molly is a grown woman finally living for herself and finding out who she really is. I had to admire her strength with everything that was thrown at her in such a short amount of time. She really is an amazing character.

Onto the romance. I'm a very romance driven reader, and I'm happy to report that the romance more than delivered in AMERICAN WITCH. It's a relatively quick progression, but it never felt rushed or unrealistic, which I appreciated considering everything the heroine is going through. The hero's massive amount of baggage didn't help either, and yet the quicker romantic progression still worked well. And that they started off as somewhat enemies only sweetened the romance for me as that's my favorite trope.

All in all, it comes as no surprise that AMERICAN WITCH was a very enjoyable read. Thea Harrison really is a powerhouse in the paranormal romance genre and I can't wait to see what's next!

(Received a copy from the publisher)

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Tome Tender
Smokin Hot Book Blog

Review: Atone in Darkness by Alexis Morgan

2019-04-17T07:00:00.000-04:00

Atone in Darkness by Alexis Morgan

The Paladin Strike Team #2

Return to the steamy and suspenseful Paladin series by the USA TODAY bestselling author with this heart-pounding novel following a doctor and her mysterious patient as they try to escape a mysterious military force hell-bent on exploiting them both.

Brilliant doctor Marisol knows nothing about the mysterious man whose vitals she monitors and whose every move she's paid to track—other than the fact that he is brought to death's door each night by a squad of military grade thugs. She certainly can't ask the people who hired her. After all, they run this shady, hi-tech compound where she is now stranded, the only woman among huge, uniform-clad brutes.

Chase Mosely, Marisol's sole charge, knows nothing about who was behind his kidnapping, other than the fact that they want to know about his Paladin's ability to heal. Nor does he know anything about his pretty keeper, who seems to be working for the enemy, but still looks at him with compassion in her eyes.

Both held captive in a remote testing facility, their desperate stories intertwine. And, as they discover that they mean more to each other than they could ever have imagined, the two of them must find a way to escape, no matter the odds.

I’m a huge fan of the paranormal romance genre, and a complete sucker for the enemies to lovers trope, so ATONE IN DARKNESS was right up my alley. This time around the enemies to lover plotline had a bit of a twist in that the heroine is not intentionally an enemy, twisted up in the plight as an almost victim herself. Of course our hero, Chase doesn’t let her off easy, despite his fierce attraction to her. It made for a delicious build up in the romance department, and the high stakes against them only upped the ante. The action takes off from the first page and really didn’t let up until it was over. Definitely a very engrossing read that I thoroughly enjoyed.

If you’re looking for a fast, action-packed read with a great building romance and very high stakes, look no further than ATONE IN DARKNESS.

(Received a copy from the publisher)

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Previous Books:
1. In Darkness Transformed

Early Review: The Trouble with Vampires by Lynsay Sands

2019-04-10T07:00:00.000-04:00

The Trouble with Vampires by Lynsay Sands

Argeneau #29

For close to three thousand years the imposing, impossibly handsome Santo Notte has fought in armies across the world and battled his own, more personal enemies. Of all the places he might expect to encounter his life mate, a quiet corner of upstate New York doesn’t seem likely. But as soon as he makes contact with history professor Petronella Stone, while hunting down a suspected rogue immortal, he knows that she will be the greatest adventure of his eternal life.

He expects her to be surprised, confused, even overwhelmed. What he doesn’t expect is that Pet has a secret history of her own. There’s no mistaking the mind-blowing, mutual pleasure they share. But as Pet struggles to protect her nephew from a danger lurking too close to home, Santo realizes there’s another threat to her safety—him. And claiming their passionate future will be impossible until he leaves his past behind, forever…

In the Argeneau series, it’s always interesting to see the heroine’s (and sometimes the hero if he is the mortal one) reaction to the reality of immortals and life mates. This time around she knew about immortals, but the life mate part came as quite a bit of a surprise. To say their first interactions went a bit rocky is a hilarious understatement. Santo acted no better than a gruff brute, infuriating Pet to no end. It was rather amusing seeing him attempt to civilize himself and woo her. Meanwhile while all of the romance hijinks were going on, there was a larger plot and threat against them making for a balanced and engrossing read. I really enjoy books that balance a strong romance, but don’t forget to add decent focus to a strong plot. Don’t get me wrong, I love romance just as much as the next gal, but when I’m in the mood for more, adding a great plot sells it for me. And THE TROUBLE WITH VAMPIRES more than delivered.

If you enjoy paranormal romance, and a long running series that is guaranteed to entertain, the Argeneau series is a perfect choice. Twenty-nine books in and this series is still going incredibly strong. I really look forward to each new release and THE TROUBLE WITH VAMPIRES was no exception. All in all, a fantastically entertaining read, fans of the series will be more than pleased.

(Received a copy from the publisher)

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Other Reviews:

Previous Books:
1. A Quick Bite
2. Love Bites
3. Single White Vampire
4. Tall, Dark, & Hungry
5. A Bite to Remember
6. Bite Me If You Can
7. The Accidental Vampire
8. Vampires Are Forever
9. Vampire, Interrupted
10. The Rouge Hunter
11. The Immortal Hunter
12. The Renegade Hunter
13. Born to Bite
14. Hungry for You
15. The Reluctant Vampire
16. Under a Vampire Moon
17. The Lady is a Vamp
18. Immortal Ever After
19. One Lucky Vampire
20. Vampire Most Wanted
21. The Immortal Who Loved Me
22. About a Vampire
23. Runaway Vampire
24. Immortal Nights
25. Immortal Unchained
26. Immortally Yours
27. Twice Bitten
28. Vampires Like it Hot

Release Day Review: Grave Destiny by Kalayna Price

2019-04-02T07:00:00.000-04:00

Grave Destiny by Kalayna Price

Alex Craft #6

Grave witch Alex Craft can speak to the dead, and that makes her a dangerous enemy for anyone with something to hide. . . .
Alex is still trying to come to terms with her changing powers and her growing ties to Faerie when a case she’d rather avoid falls right into her lap. A fae prince desperately needs Alex to investigate a politically sensitive murder. She reluctantly agrees to the case, taking FIB agent Falin Andrews along as her backup.

But as Alex begins to delve into the mystery, she realizes that the intricate web of alliances and intrigue in the Faerie courts is strained to its limits. War is about to break out, one that threatens to spill over into the mortal realm. This murder is tied right to the center of centuries-old arcane unrest, and if Alex isn’t careful she may follow the twisting path ahead of her right into her grave end.

I really appreciate a series where even after a long absence in-between books, the characters and world are so familiar and well fleshed that the reader has no problem jumping back in. That is exactly the case with the Alex Craft books. While I admit some of the previous events are a bit hazy at this point, I had no difficulty at all falling back into Alex's world. This time around the fae are up to no good yet again, and Alex finds herself in the middle of things. In typical Alex style, she attracts chaos and danger like a magnet, and I thoroughly enjoyed seeing her find her way out of her latest mess. Falin and Alex's unwanted betrothed shadow prince are her trusty sidekicks as the try to get to the bottom of a murder in Faerie that could push the courts to the brink of war. To say Falin isn't a fan of the prince is the understatement of the century and the sparks flying between them kept me more than entertained while the trio blundered around in this whodunit plot.

In the romance department, there wasn't a whole lot of satisfaction to be had. Death is no longer in the picture (pity!), Alex wants nothing to do with her betrothed, and Falin is still forbidden from courting her as he belongs to the Winter Queen. So in a nutshell, you can say Alex's love life is complicated to say the least. By the end of the book there were glimmers of hope for some real sparks to satisfy this romance lovers heart, but only time will tell.

I'm typically pretty good at ferreting out twists and turns outcomes before they are final (something that drives my husband insane to no end...). So when a book's twist can catch me completely off guard that I didn't see coming at all, I'm thoroughly impressed. I never would have guessed the outcome of the ending of GRAVE DESTINY and I cannot wait to see the long term ramifications of this shake up in the next book. It definitely made for an interesting read!

All in all, GRAVE DESTINY is a satisfying read that will delight fans of the series!

(Received a copy from the publisher)

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Other Reviews:
Between Dreams and Reality
Gizmo's Reviews
Tome Tender

Previous Books:
1. Grave Witch
2. Grave Dance
3. Grave Memory
4. Grave Visions
5. Grave Ransom

Early Review: Gimme Some Sugar by Molly Harper

2019-03-21T07:00:00.000-04:00

Gimme Some Sugar by Molly Harper

Southern Eclectic #3

A young widow returns to Lake Sackett, Georgia to face the ghosts of her past—and decide if she’s ready to take another chance on love—in the third sparkling Southern Eclectic novel that “goes down as easy as honey on a deep-fried Twinkie” (Library Journal, on Sweet Tea and Sympathy).

Lucy Brewer would never have guessed that her best friend, Duffy McCready (of McCready’s Bait Shop & Funeral Home) has been in love with her since they were kids. Fear of rejection and his own romantic complications prevented Duffy from confessing his true feelings in high school, so he stood by and watched her wed Wayne Bowman right after high school. Wayne had always been a cheapskate, so it comes as no surprise when he suffers a fatal accident while fixing his own truck.

Even as her family and friends invade Lucy’s life and insist that the new widow is too fragile to do much beyond weeping, Lucy is ashamed to admit that life without Wayne is easier, less complicated. After all, no one knew what a relentless, soul-grinding trudge marriage to Wayne had been. Only Duffy can tell she’s hiding something.

In need of a fresh start, Lucy asks Duffy to put his cabinet-building skills to use, transforming the town's meat shop into a bake shop. As the bakery takes shape, Lucy and Duffy discover the spark that pulled them together so many years ago. Could this finally be the second chance he’s always hoped for?

Once again Molly Harper “writes characters you can’t help but fall in love with” (RT Book Reviews) in this charming and entertaining love story.

I really enjoy Molly Harper’s books. She’s my go to author when I need a bit of humor and sunshine in my life and GIMME SOME SUGAR more than delivered. I always enjoy a good friends to lovers story, and mixed in with a bit of second chances, this book was a winner. The slow sweet burn between Lucy and Duffy sucked me right in. Lucy is starting over, and isn’t taking any nonsense from anyone despite many trying to dish it out. And Duffy is finally finding his own and re-prioritizing his life, and Lucy is it. But there’s no insta-love here, which really works for the characters and their situation, which I really appreciated. Add that to the typical hi-jinks of this town and its hilarious inhabitants, and you have one heck of a sweet read.

If you are looking for a read full of wit, humor, romance, and a great plot-line, look no further than GIMME SOME SUGAR. I’m a huge fan of the series, and I can’t wait to see what comes next!

(Received a copy from the publisher)

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Other Reviews:
A Midlife Wife
Rolopolobookblog

Previous Books:
1. Sweet Tea and Sympathy
1.5. Peachy Flippin' Keen
2. Ain't She a Peach

Review: Phoenix Unbound by Grace Draven

2019-03-13T07:00:00.000-04:00

Phoenix Unbound by Grace Draven

Fallen Empire #1

A woman with power over fire and illusion and an enslaved son of a chieftain battle a corrupt empire in this powerful and deeply emotional romantic fantasy from the USA Today bestselling author of Radiance.

Every year, each village is required to send a young woman to the Empire's capital--her fate to be burned alive for the entertainment of the masses. For the last five years, one small village's tithe has been the same woman. Gilene's sacrifice protects all the other young women of her village, and her secret to staying alive lies with the magic only she possesses.

But this year is different.

Azarion, the Empire's most famous gladiator, has somehow seen through her illusion--and is set on blackmailing Gilene into using her abilities to help him escape his life of slavery. And unknown to Gilene, he also wants to reclaim the birthright of his clan.
To protect her family and village, she will risk everything to return to the Empire--and burn once more.

PHOENIX UNBOUND was such a rich and enjoyable story! It had such a great premise and incredible characters that I was hooked from the first page. Sometimes full fantasy worlds can take me a bit to get into due to all of the necessary world-building set up that can sometimes slow the early pacing. However, this was not the case in this book. There was no sacrifices made anywhere in this book, the pacing was executed flawlessly without sacrificing anything. The world, the plot, the characters, the conflict, all wrapped together perfectly making for one heck of an enjoyable read. I felt like I was experiencing things right alongside the characters.

Onto the romance: that it centered around my all time favorite trope of enemies to lovers, only sweetened the read for me. Azarion and Gilene start out as utter enemies in the truest of sense. Gilene couldn't possibly hate him as her captor any more than she does. And yet, slowly throughout the book she starts to see him in a new light. I know some would say Stockholm, but it didn't really have that vibe throughout. Yes he kidnapped her, and yes he's using her for his own gain, but it just worked for me. The progression of the romance is slow, but believable considering the circumstance, and I loved every minute of it.

After finishing this book, all I can say is that I'm so glad this is to be a series, because I can't wait to read more in this incredible world! PHOENIX UNBOUND is an incredibly enjoyable read that you won't want to miss!

(Received a copy from the publisher)

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Other Reviews:
Between Dreams and Reality
All Things Urban Fantasy
Gizmo's Reviews

Review: The Antidote by Shelley Sackier

2019-03-05T07:00:00.000-05:00

The Antidote by Shelley Sackier

Magic is not allowed, under any circumstances — even if it could save someone’s life. Instead, there are herbal remedies and traditional techniques that have been painstakingly recorded in lieu of using the mystical arts. Fee knows this, so she keeps her magic a secret.

Except her best friend, Xavi, is deathly ill. He’s also the crown prince. Saving him is important, not only for her, but for the entire kingdom.

Fee’s desperation to save her friend means she can barely contain the magic inside her. And after the tiniest of slips, Fee is thrust into a dark and secretive world that is as alluring as it is dangerous.

If she gives in, it could mean she can save Xavi. But it also means that those who wish to snuff out magic might just snuff her out in the process.

I really wanted to love THE ANTIDOTE, but I had really a hard time staying interested while reading. The premise in the blurb fascinated me and there was a lot of potential, but the actual execution just failed to keep my attention. There were an incredible amount of twists and turns throughout, but I always felt like something was missing, some vital bits of information withheld that would have assuaged some of my confusion and better hooked me into the story. This just made the twists and turns feel a bit forced and over the top as if they were thrown in there to keep interest rather than any true reveal or substance.

Unfortunately, in the end the entire book was a large disconnect for me. I continued reading as the characters and the potential kept me hoping for a pay off in the end. But alas, even after finishing, I'm still left scratching my head at a few things as while the descriptions of things were extensive and almost flowery, they weren't ever actually made clear. Granted I'm not a huge fan of lyrical prose, instead preferring strong character driven plots, and a structured action-packed plot. So all in all, THE ANTIDOTE wasn't my cup of tea, but may be the perfect read for more whimsical and lyrical driven readers.

(Received a copy from the publisher)

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Other Reviews:
Between Dreams and Reality
Gizmo's Reviews
Mel to the Any

Review: Vengeance Road by Christine Feehan

2019-02-12T07:00:00.000-05:00

Vengeance Road by Christine Feehan

Torpedo Ink #2

Breezy Simmons was born into a ruthless motorcycle club—and now that she’s out, she’s never going to be that girl again. But when her past catches up with her, Breezy must go to Sea Haven to seek out the man who almost destroyed her. The man who chose his club over her and left her feeling used and alone.

As vice president of Torpedo Ink, Steele is ride or die for the brothers he lived through hell with. He never thought he’d find something as pure as his feelings for Breezy, or that keeping her safe would mean driving her away with cruel words that turned her love for him to ash.

Now, Steele won’t let her walk away twice. He’ll do whatever it takes to make Breezy his woman again—especially when he learns the real reason she came to him for help, and that the stakes are higher than he ever could have imagined…

Despite Christine Feehan being a huge name in the paranormal romance genre, I had never read one of her books. There's just too many books to read and too little time! However, the blurb for VENGEANCE ROAD sounded really interesting, so I figured no time like the present to try this new to me author that everyone else already knows. After reading this book, I have to say that I really enjoyed Christine's writing style and the rich depth of the story. It's a hefty book, and definitely feels fuller than most romances. I will say that I was surprised at how light the paranormal aspects of the book were. Think more light paranormal-esque rather than full PNR. But I didn't feel it detracted from the story at all, it just wasn't what I expected.

Onto the romance; I have to admit, the hero was just a bit too much for me in VENGEANCE ROAD, and because of that I had a hard time connecting to the romance. Don't get me wrong, I like a uber strong and protective alpha hero just as much as the next gal, but Steele, he's a whole another level of control freak. His past is explained throughout the book and the reasons for his almost insane need to keep Breezy in sights at all times made some logical sense. However, there were many times while reading this book that his action and behavior were just too much, and frankly made me feel uncomfortable. It's written in a way to try and paint it with Breezy being the perfect match for him and not caring about that level of control. And yet... I felt like screaming through the pages at her to RUN away as fast as she could it was just that intense. This unfortunately is just not a normal reaction while reading a romance novel, even when you love fierce and damaged alpha heros as much as I do. Steele was just too much for this romance lovers heart to overlook.

All in all, while I enjoyed the storytelling and the writing style of my first Christine Feehan read, I couldn't really connect to the story due to the hero and his all but abusive level of control. I'll definitely try other books from this author in the future as I felt like there was great potential while reading this book, but VENGEANCE ROAD itself just didn't work for me.

(Received a copy from the publisher)

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Other Reviews:
Guilty Pleasures Book Reviews
Romance Reader

Previous Books:
1. Judgement Road

Early Review: Summoned to Thirteenth Grave by Darynda Jones

2019-01-11T07:00:00.000-05:00

Summoned to Thirteenth Grave by Darynda Jones

Charlie Davidson #13

Charley Davidson, Grim Reaper extraordinaire, is pissed. She’s been kicked off the earthly plain for eternity – which is the appropriate amount of time to make a person starkraving mad. But someone’s looking out for her, and she’s allowed to return after a mere hundred years in exile. Is it too much to hope for that not much has changed? Apparently it is. Bummer.

She’s missed Reyes and her daughter, Beep, but now that she’s back on earth, it’s time to put to rest burning questions that need answers. What happened to her mother? How did she really die? Who killed her? And are cupcakes or coffee the best medicine? It all comes to a head in an epic showdown between good and evil in this final smart and hilarious novel.

As a long time Charlie fan, I couldn't wait to get my hands on this book after the killer cliffhanger of the previous installment. SUMMONED TO THIRTEENTH GRAVE, picks up right where things left off, and it's no time at all until Charlie is up to her usual shenanigans. This time around is a doozy and I really enjoyed getting to see Charlie and co unravel the latest mess. I truly enjoy seeing this motley crew in action, and this book didn't disappoint.

Now onto the biggest question whenever closing out a much loved series, was the ending everything long term readers would hope for. In SUMMONED TO THIRTEENTH GRAVE'S part, the answer is yes and no as it's more than a little complicated. Was it a fitting ending? Yes. Was it the one I had hoped for, or could have predicted, absolutely not. Without spoiling things, I will say that it's more than a little bittersweet and while satisfying it's just not in the way one would think. It left a complex mix of happiness and yet strange sadness at the end that left me feeling all sorts of confused, but in a good way. It's hard to explain

I truly will miss Charlie and all of her fabulously hilarious and inappropriate quips. I hope there will be a spin off for Beep's story as there's so much room for more in this fantastic world. All in all, SUMMONED TO THIRTEENTH GRAVE was a fantastic read that I couldn't put down. Fans of the series will be more than pleased!

(Received a copy from the publisher)

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Other Reviews:
Gizmo's Reviews
Silence is Read
Stephanie's Novel Fiction

Previous Books:
1. First Grave on the Right
2. Second Grave on the Left
3. Third Grade Dead Ahead
4. Fourth Grave Beneath My Feat
5. Fifth Grave Past the Light
6. Sixth Grave on the Edge
7. Seventh Grave and No Body
8. Eighth Grave After Dark
9. The Dirt on Ninth Grave
10. The Curse of Tenth Grave
11. Eleventh Grave in Moonlight
12. The Trouble with Twelfth Grave

Review: Evermore by Sara Holland

2019-01-07T07:00:00.000-05:00

Evermore by Sara Holland

Everless #2

Jules Ember was raised hearing legends of the ancient magic of the wicked Alchemist and the good Sorceress. But she has just learned the truth: not only are the stories true, but she herself is the Alchemist, and Caro—a woman who single-handedly murdered the Queen and Jules’s first love, Roan, in cold blood—is the Sorceress.

The whole kingdom believes that Jules is responsible for the murders, and a hefty bounty has been placed on her head. And Caro is intent on destroying Jules, who stole her heart twelve lifetimes ago. Jules must delve into the stories that she now recognizes are accounts of her own past. For it is only by piecing together the mysteries of her lives that Jules will be able to save the person who has captured her own heart in this one.

I really enjoyed the first book in this series, Everless. The premise, characters, and twisty-turns were all spot on. Considering it ended in a cliffhanger, I couldn't wait to get my hands on EVERMORE to see what happened next. Unfortunately my patience wasn't really rewarded in this case. EVERMORE felt like a completely different style of book, leaving me rather disappointed. There was little focus this time around on concept of blood time as currency, which I had found to be one of the most intriguing parts of the first book. This time around things focused almost entirely on Jules' plight to take down the sorceress. Unfortunately that led to a very meandering plot that lacked the pacing and momentum to keep my attention. I found myself skimming more often than not which is unfortunate. Also, there were a lot of vision sequences to the past that really bogged down the pacing. Some of the information/events they showed added to the story, but the pacing and execution just didn't work overall.

Unfortunately it also didn't help things in that I had no attachment to the budding romance. Something about the pairing just didn't work for me, and just felt forced. Don't get me wrong, I'm a sucker for enemies to lovers romances, but in this case, it just didn't work for me at all with Jules and Liam. Separately I like the characters a great deal (although Jules and her ridiculous impulsively bad decisions drove me batty), but together, they just didn't mesh in my opinion.

All in all, unfortunately EVERMORE just didn't work for me. I do think the author is very talented as evidenced by the first book, and I'll be eager to try new books from her in the future for a fresh start.

(Received a copy from the publisher)

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Other Reviews:
The Book Prescription
Her Bookish Things
Gizmo's Reviews

Previous Books:
1. Everless

Review: Diamond Fire by Ilona Andrews

2018-12-11T07:00:00.000-05:00

Diamond Fire by Ilona Andrews

Hidden Legacy #3.5

Nevada Frida Baylor and Connor Ander Rogan cordially invite you to join their wedding celebration. Summoning, weather manipulation, and other magical activities strictly forbidden.

Catalina Baylor is looking forward to wearing her maid of honor dress and watching her older sister walk down the aisle. Then the wedding planner gets escorted off the premises, the bride’s priceless tiara disappears, and Rogan's extensive family overruns his mother’s home. Someone is cheating, someone is lying, and someone is plotting murder.

To make this wedding happen, Catalina will have to do the thing she fears most: use her magic. But she’s a Baylor and there’s nothing she wouldn't do for her sister's happiness. Nevada will have her fairy tale wedding, even if Catalina has to tear the mansion apart brick by brick to get it done.

DIAMOND FIRE is a bridge novella that does a great job of tying up a few things from Nevada's series and transitioning us to Catalina's. I really enjoyed getting that additional closure for Nevada and it was also a lot of fun seeing her from a different perspective. She came across so strong in her series, to see her as a mini almost-bridezilla was a lot of fun.

On Catalina's side, being in her head was a lot different as she's in a much younger and inexperienced stage of her life. If this novella is anything to go by, her series is going to be very enjoyable getting to see her really grow and blossom. Even in the short amount of time that this story covers she made a lot of ground, and I can't wait to see how things progress.

All in all, DIAMOND FIRE is an incredibly entertaining novella that will satisfy fans of the original series and wet their appetite for the next.

(Received a copy from the publisher)

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Other Reviews:
Between Dreams and Reality
All Things Urban Fantasy
Fangs, Wands, & Fairy Dust

Previous Books:
1. Burn for Me
2. White Hot
3. Wildfire

Review: The Phoenix Illusion by Lisa Shearin

2018-11-16T07:00:00.000-05:00

The Phoenix Illusion by Lisa Shearin

SPI Files #6

The agents of Supernatural Protection & Investigation (SPI) are used to dealing with the weird and the wacky, but even they are stunned when a building from another world suddenly appears on an empty lot in New York. . .

I’m Makenna Fraser, seer for SPI, and it’s just my luck that my birthday party is literally crashed by a building from another planet. And it’s not just any building—it’s my goblin boyfriend’s house from his home world. SPI’s mission, to keep the public clueless about the supernatural, has us scrambling to find who did this and why, not to mention how.

The deeper we dig, the more we realize this incident is the opening gambit to a much larger event. Old enemies have combined forces with an even older nemesis to develop the means to kidnap an entire building and everyone in it. But who, or what, is their ultimate target? Finding out and getting to the mark before they do will require all hands on deck, including some extraterrestrial help from the goblin home world. We’re running out of time, and if we can’t get our act together, we’ll have front-row seats for the end of the world as we know it.

Yet again, Lisa Shearin has knocked it out of the park again with THE PHOENIX ILLUSION. I really love how she seamlessly blends wit and humor right alongside a pretty intense and high stakes plot. I couldn't turn the pages fast enough. This time around Makenna and crew are elbow deep in one heck of rabbit chase after an entire building appears out of nowhere from another dimension. And yet, not matter how dire the stakes got, the book never once lost that feeling of levity. I really enjoy a heroine who doesn't take herself too seriously no matter the stakes, and that perfectly fits Makenna. She's fierce and tough, but she's also not unrealistically powerful, which I appreciate. She's not afraid to step up and do what's needed to be done, but she also doesn't hesitate to let others more powerful than her jump in, instead. She's very level headed, and I love it. Add that to her quirkiness and overall spunk and she's the perfect recipe of a heroine.

I don't think I can quite express just how enjoyable reading this series is. It checks off all my favorites; awesomely high staked plot, check; incredible cast of characters, check; a smoking romance, check; more than plenty hilarious moments, check, check, check. Seriously, if you enjoy a fast paced, fun story full of adventure and a great cast of characters, look no further than THE PHOENIX ILLUSION and the entire SPI series.

(Received a copy from the publisher)

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Other Reviews:
All Things Urban Fantasy

Previous Books:
1. The Grendel Affair
2. The Dragon Conspiracy
3. The Brimstone Defection
4. The Ghoul Vendetta
5. Myth Manifestation

Blog Tour - Re-Read of The Trouble with Twelfth Grave + Giveaway

2018-11-09T07:00:00.000-05:00

The Trouble with Twelfth Grave by Darynda Jones

Charley Davidson #12

Re-Read Thoughts:

With the final book in this epic series coming soon, this felt like the perfect to re-read Twelfth Grade in preparation. It was every bit as good the 2nd time around if not even better. However, I will say that the cliffhanger did not get one bit easier, but I honestly wasn't expecting it to. You can't soften that kind of ending! I really feel like this book is the perfect set up for the epic final showdown we've all be waiting for! I really appreciate just how fun, but rich and intensely full this series and books are, more than keeping my attention no matter how many re-reads. There aren't too many series that have that claim and this one's at the top. All in all, fantastic series whether it's the first read, or the tenth and I can't wait to see how everything pans out!

Scroll below for an awesome giveaway and my original review!

Ever since Reyes escaped from a hell dimension in which Charley accidently trapped him, the son of Satan has been brimstone-bent on destroying the world his heavenly Brother created. His volatile tendencies have put Charley in a bit of a pickle. But that’s not the only briny vegetable on her plate. While trying to domesticate the feral being that used to be her husband, she also has to deal with her everyday life of annoying all manner of beings—some corporeal, some not so much—as she struggles to right the wrongs of society. Only this time she’s not uncovering a murder. This time she’s covering one up.

Add to that her new occupation of keeping a startup PI venture—the indomitable mystery-solving team of Amber Kowalski and Quentin Rutherford—out of trouble and dealing with the Vatican’s inquiries into her beloved daughter, and Charley is on the brink of throwing in the towel and becoming a professional shopper. Or possibly a live mannequin. But when someone starts attacking humans who are sensitive to the supernatural world, Charley knows it’s time to let loose her razor sharp claws. Then again, her number one suspect is the dark entity she’s loved for centuries. So the question becomes, can she tame the unruly beast before it destroys everything she’s worked so hard to protect?

Enter for a chance to win the entire Charley Davidson series by Darynda Jones, an ARC of the epic finale, Summoned to Thirteenth Grave, plus fun swag!
https://read.macmillan.com/promo/charleydavidsonseriessweeps

Original Review:

Holy mother of cliffhangers batman! I'm honestly not even sure how to write this review as I can't get past that ending, even a week after finishing. The book was utterly fantastic, a bit short, but ultimately incredible. But that ending? It ripped out my heart, put it in a blender, and sadistically pushed the puree setting. Just wow.

Cliffhangers aside and out of my system. THE TROUBLE WITH TWELFTH GRAVE continued the series in normal snarky Charley style. Reyes is up to no good throughout most of the book and Charley is in a tailspin trying to bring down her own weakness. Things continue in a Scooby Doo gang style as they all group to try and figure out just what to do with the Reyes problem. It made for a really enjoyable read.

All in all THE TROUBLE WITH TWELFTH GRAVE is a fantastic installment in the Charley Davidson series that I thoroughly enjoyed. And after that ending I'm desperate to get my hands on the final installment next year. Fans of the series will be more than pleased!

(Received a copy from the publisher)

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Other Reviews:
Between Dreams and Reality
All Things Urban Fantasy
Gizmo's Reviews

Previous Books:
1. First Grave on the Right
2. Second Grave on the Left
3. Third Grade Dead Ahead
4. Fourth Grave Beneath My Feat
5. Fifth Grave Past the Light
6. Sixth Grave on the Edge
7. Seventh Grave and No Body
8. Eighth Grave After Dark
9. The Dirt on Ninth Grave
10. The Curse of Tenth Grave
11. Eleventh Grave in Moonlight

Early Review: Archangel's Prophecy by Nalini Singh

2018-10-26T07:00:00.000-04:00

Archangel's Prophecy by Nalini Singh

Guild Hunter #11

Return to New York Times bestselling author Nalini Singh’s darkly passionate Guild Hunter world, where human-turned-angel Elena Deveraux, consort to Archangel Raphael, is thrust center stage into an eons-old prophecy....

Midnight and dawn, Elena’s wings are unique among angelkind…and now they’re failing. The first mortal to be turned into an immortal in angelic memory, she’s regressing. Becoming more and more human. Easier to hurt. Easier to kill.

Elena and Raphael must unearth the reason for the regression before it’s too late and Elena falls out of the sky. Yet even as they fight a furious battle for Elena’s very survival, violent forces are gathering in New York and across the world.

In China, the Archangel Favashi is showing the first signs of madness. In New York, a mysterious sinkhole filled with lava swallows a man whole. In Africa, torrential monsoon rains flood rolling deserts. And in Elena’s mind whispers a haunting voice that isn’t her own.

This time, survival may not be possible…not even for the consort of an archangel.

After finishing ARCHANGEL'S PROPHECY all I can say is wow, just wow. That was one heck of a nail-biting and gut-wrenchingly intense read that led up to the cliffhanger to end all cliffhangers. I feel like my insides were put on the puree setting. Honestly I had to wait on this review a good long while after finishing the book because I felt too raw to string coherent thoughts together. Even this far removed from reading, I'm still struggling, but I'll do my best. But the ending has me all out of sorts. In fairness the events of the book did continually warn the reader, but I held out hope until the bitter end that author would somehow put a twist and change things before the end. Don't get me wrong, I have high hopes for the next book for that much needed twist to come (I hope) but the wait will be agonizing.

Getting past the ending. The book was utterly fantastic, simply put. Elena and Raphael are still dealing with all of the insane effects from the Cascade, but the stakes have been raised even higher with the advent of this horrible prophecy looming over their heads. It's a doozy and dominates a lot of the focus of the book, but there's so much more intertwined through out too. I truly have to give props to the author in her ability to masterfully craft such and amazingly emotional story that affected me so much. I truly adore these characters and each book feels like returning home to much loved family.

All in all ARCHANGEL'S PROPHECY was one heck of a phenomenal read. I make have wanted to chuck my kindle at the end, but I loved every single moment of the book. My hat goes off to Nalini, and I will be counting down until I can get my hands on the next book. Bravo Ms. Nalini, Bravo!

(Received a copy from the publisher)

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Other Reviews:
Book Twins Reviews
Steamy Reads
Gizmo's Reviews

Previous Books:
1. Angels' Blood
2. Archangel's Kiss
3. Archangel's Consort
4. Archangel's Blade
5. Archangel's Storm

6. Archangel's Legion

7. Archangel's Shadows

8. Archangel's Enigma

9. Archangel's Heart

10. Archangel's Viper

Early Review: Fury by Rachel Vincent

2018-10-23T07:00:00.000-04:00

Fury by Rachel Vincent

Menagerie #3

1986: Rebecca Essig leaves a slumber party early but comes home to a massacre—committed by her own parents. Only one of her siblings has survived. But as the tragic event unfolds, she begins to realize that other than a small army of six-year-olds, she is among very few survivors of a nationwide slaughter.

The Reaping has begun.

Present day: Pregnant and on the run with a small band of compatriots, Delilah Marlow is determined to bring her baby into the world safely and secretly. But she isn’t used to sitting back while others suffer, and she’s desperate to reunite Zyanya, the cheetah shifter, with her brother and children. To find a way for Lenore the siren to see her husband. To find Rommily’s missing Oracle sisters. To unify this adopted family of fellow cryptids she came to love and rely on in captivity.

But Delilah is about to discover that her role in the human versus cryptid war is destined to be much larger—and more dangerous—than she ever could have imagined.

How do you review a book and trilogy that on one hand kept you hooked from the very first page of book 1 until the last page of final book, yet leaves you feeling completely bereft in the end? The writing, story, and characters were all phenomenal, but I have more than a little bit of leanings towards bitterness with the way everything turned out in the end. I won't spoil things, but was the ending more realistic than many series that get wrapped up in a neat little bow in the end? Yes, perhaps. But I'll admit, I like my neat bows, and tidy endings as I read for an escape from reality. Fury's ending, while fitting for the series when I attempt to take an emotional step back, left me too raw to even grudgingly admit it could have been the right one. And perhaps that in itself is a win for the book. A book that doesn't emotionally grip you cannot never be fantastic, and this one, well lets just say it chewed me up and spat me out.

Getting past that ending and back to the rest of the actual book, FURY was told in alternating timelines, which I really enjoyed. The past timeline gave a better insight into the reaping, but also held very relevant to current events and situations. I really enjoyed the twists and turns these dual timelines revealed the further the book went along. Prior to this glimpse into the the time of the reaping it was easy to see humanity as evil based upon their treatment of the Cryptids. And yet with the new perspective and insight it became more gray. I'm not defending humanity in this book, but after seeing through someone's eyes "firsthand" it changed my perspective a bit. I don't condone the behavior, but a part of me understands that fear. Which again, that's a major compliment to Rachel's writing in her ability to make this reader feel so many different and complicated emotions.

Reservations on the ending aside, Rachel Vincent has written one heck of a profoundly thought provoking trilogy. I'm very glad I read this series and I highly recommend this read!

(Received a copy from the publisher)

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Other Reviews:
Carina's Books
Tome Tender
Hidden in Pages

Previous Books:
1. Menagerie
2. Spectacle

Review: Lionheart by Thea Harrison

2018-10-16T07:00:00.000-04:00

Lionheart by Thea Harrison

Moonshadow #3

King Oberon reigned over his Dark Court in Lyonesse for centuries, until an assassination attempt laid him low. Now he lies unconscious in his snow-bound palace, while his Power battles the enchantment that threatens to end his life.

A skilled trauma surgeon and magic-user, Dr. Kathryn Shaw reigns at the top of her profession in New York. Then comes a challenge she can’t resist—she is asked to cure the uncureable. Just getting close enough to try healing Oberon is a dangerous proposition. When she does reach him, he awakens too soon.

Roused from darkness by Kathryn’s presence, Oberon confronts the beautiful stranger who claims she wants to save his life. But the enchantment has frozen his emotions. How can he learn to trust her when he can’t feel anything?

Oberon’s desire is icy, devoid of all tenderness. Not only must Kathryn match wits with him, she must also fight her reaction to his touch, because there is so much more at stake than her own endangered heart.

For the Dark Court faces its most deadly peril yet. Its ancient enemy Isabeau, Queen of the Light Court, is obsessed with its annihilation, and Oberon must be brought to remember his loyalty and affection for his people.

Because if he won’t fight for them, Lyonesse itself may very well be destroyed…

Man do I love a grumpy, surly hero. Oberon in many respects has filled the "hole" left behind with Dragos no longer getting featured books. There's just something so yummy about reading a book with such an "overbearing" hero and the tough as nails heroine that tames them. LIONHEART more than delivered in this aspect. Kathryn is the match for Oberon and then some. She gives as good as she gets and I truly enjoyed watching these two dance around each other. Their romance was a slow but fierce burn, exactly perfect for the pair.

Aside from the romance, the rest of the world, characters, and plotline were all fantastic as well. The war with Isabeau has come to a boiling head, ratcheting up the intensity. And the sideline characters added a richness to the story. I have to admit the Puck stole the show for me. I want to see him grow and heal, and maybe some day find love of his own. Hopefully he's on the author's mind for the future!

I've really enjoyed the Moonshadow trilogy and I can only hope Thea changes her mind and decides to continue this spin off series. I love these characters, and all of the Elder races books. Regardless, if Thea writes it, I'll be first in line to read it. Fans of the Elder Races will be more than pleased with LIONHEART and will want this one on their e-reader asap!

(Received a copy from the author)

Rating:

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Other Reviews:
The Bookish Sweet Tooth
Angel's Guilty Pleasures
Tome Tender

Previous Books:
1. Moonshadow
2. Spellbinder

Review: Touch the Sky by Kari Cole

2018-09-27T07:00:00.000-04:00

Touch the Sky by Kari Cole

Mated by Fate #2

Sheriff Vaughn Ellis’s very existence as a rare double-shifter defies the natural order. It also makes it extremely difficult for him to get close to anyone. To trust anyone. It’s nothing Vaughn can’t handle, until a seductively sweet woman arrives in Black Robe, and suddenly he can’t think about anything but her.

The product of a witch/werewolf pairing, Hannah Cochran gets the odd-wolf-out thing. But when she uncovers a major threat to the lycanthrope world, she finds herself playing nice with the sexy sheriff. Abiding by the law isn’t usually Hannah’s style, but nothing catches her breath quite like the commanding attraction she feels toward Vaughn.

Working closely together only intensifies their fated connection, making it impossible to deny—or resist. Hannah fears that getting involved puts Vaughn in danger. But when she becomes the target, it’s Vaughn who’ll have to decide which rules he’s willing to break to save the woman he can’t live without.

Kari Cole has done it again! TOUCH THE SKY was one heck of a Paranormal Romance read that kept me hooked from the very first page. From the characters (LOVE Vaughn and Hannah!) to the current plotline of Hannah's danger, to the over-arching Apex plot. this book had it all and then some. The romance is off the charts hot, but it's not bogged down with instalove. Instead, the progression is realistic considering just how much baggage the two were carrying. Very well done romance and plot!

The only thing that kept me from rating this book a solid five was due to some pacing issues throughout the middle. I just felt like Hannah's past was kept unnecessarily shaded from the reader, and would have helped pacing if things had been revealed at least to the reader sooner. I understand the need to hide the truth from the hero for plotline purposes, but I just felt like the knowledge could have been shared with the cousin earlier as to not feel like a contrived wool over the reader's eyes. But that's just my opinion and take it with a grain of salt. The book was utterly fantastic otherwise.

It is extremely impressive to note that this is only Kari's second book. To be honest, her writing style and plotlines of danger mixed in with romance feel very much in the vein of Nalini Singh's Psy-Changelings. Considering just how much of a powerhouse writer Nalini is, trust me, this is a HUGE compliment for Kari. I cannot wait to see how she grows as a writer. I think there are many great things in store and I can't wait to get my hands on the next book!

(Received a copy from the publisher)

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Other Reviews:
The Book Binge
Once Upon a Book Blog

Previous Books:
1. Hunt the Moon